— John 1:9 | Dec

WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 | Volume 80, Number 4 ‘The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.’

— John 1:9 WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 FLORIDACatholic ORLANDO DIOCESE uring the Christmas season, let us each be the one who extends the favor of the Christ child to another. If we all were to do this, love one another as I have loved you, that stable of Christmas night would burst into a mansion of the heart that no one can deny. Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 2

Left, Ulysses, a young Centro Guadalupano parishioner, comes forward with his family to bring the offertory during the Mass celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe in Wahneta. Above, Chinelos or costumed dancers, move to the rhythm of the brincón or jump, to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe. Costumes are decorated with indigenous tribal images harking back to their heritage. The main dancer wears a robe depicting Christ, noting their conversion, and others display Our Lady of Guadalupe, who appeared on Tepeyac Hill (now a suburb of Mexico City) where the dance originated. (PHOTOS BY GLENDA MEEKINS | FC) Our Lady of Guadalupe honored, rain or shine

GLENDA MEEKINS to celebrate it on a Sunday,” ex- little town has their own church,” been a part of Centro Guadalupano Comparza Guadalupana, from of the Florida Catholic staff plained Esteban Verdugo Roblero, he said. “That’s how it began, with for 35 years and has his own reason Bradenton, dancing the Danza de coordinator of the event and Grand a few humble country people. This for his devotion. Born in Mexico los Chinelos. Originally from Mo- WAHNETA | It was pouring rain Knight of Council San Juan Diego was just a field of grass. We cleaned City, the location of Tepeyac Hill relos, Mexico, (near Mexico City) and still more than 1,000 mission- 14975. The council was named after it up and slowly began building. where the Virgin appeared to Juan the group made up of children and ers from Centro Guadalupano Mis- the modest local to whom the Vir- With God’s help, we can do what- Diego, the parishioner says the Vir- adults hopped to the “brincón” or sion in Wahneta, packed into the gin appeared in 1531, asking that a ever we set our minds to.” gin has a special place in his heart. jump step as a tribute to Our Lady small church. Bishop John Noonan church be built for her to lead many Lector, Maria Guadalupe Alva- “My wife was very sick with cancer,” of Guadalupe. Their colorful gowns celebrated Mass alongside pastor to her Son and so she could console rez, was named after the cherished he explained. “We prayed fervently adorned with sequined and painted Father Luis Osorio. Parishioners the many natives suffering at the patroness. Her mother had a great to Our Lady of Guadalupe and now, illustrations of Our Lady appearing filed in while shedding raincoats, hands of Spanish soldiers. Origi- devotion to the Virgin of Guada- it has been two years that she is can- to San Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill many revealing colorful clothing nally from Chiapas, Mexico, Ver- lupe and to the rosary. Recently re- cer-free.” He raised his daughters (now Mexico City) shimmered as from their native countries. The dugo Roblero remembers similar turning from visiting her mother in and son with the same devotion. they moved. The central character community assembled on Dec. 9, celebrations in his homeland. He Mexico, the two shared excitement As a group of Young American wore a long robe with images of three days prior to Our Lady of Gua- added, “As Mexicans, we are proud regarding the upcoming feast. “It Dreamers processed in the rain to Christ. The dance reflected their dalupe’s feast day, to honor their pa- to be Guadalupanos.” is a great honor for me (to read) as I bring the statue of the Virgin just great joy. troness and show her love. Tony Alvarado arrived in Polk am named after Our Lady,” said Al- outside the church, singing could “I am very proud that we are Although most parishioners are County before the mission opened varez. “She is my Most Holy Mother. be heard inside, welcoming them. humble people who continue to Mexican, there were Nicaraguans, in Wahneta with the help of St. Jo- She has helped me so much in my Following the celebration of Mass, come and honor Our Lady,” said Colombians and many others who seph Parish in Winter Haven. Now marriage, in my family, and be- the cheerful crowd proceeded to Alvarado, a founding member. celebrated Mass in recognition of more than 2,000 people gather at cause I am an immigrant, she is my the nearby hall for traditional foods “She is mother of God, Mary, and is Our Lady’s feast day, officially Dec. the mission named after Our Lady protectress,” she said tearfully. like flautas, tamales, and tacos— the same, whether in Puerto Rico, 12. “Here we are almost all migrant of Guadalupe, patron saint of the Oscar Chavez, District Deputy homemade by volunteers. Cuba or wherever. She is Mary, our laborers. That is why we chose Americas. “In my country each for the Knights of Columbus, has Mexican dances ensued with Mother.” n

Santa visits with chil- Knights of Columbus bring gifts, dren of refugee families Santa to refugee children thanks to Catholic STAFF REPORT called out. Charities This is the seventh year the of Central ORLANDO | Christmas came Knights hosted breakfast with San- Florida’s early for 105 refugee children ta, and the first year it participated Compre- thanks to Catholic Charities of in Coats for Kids. The council do- hensive Central Florida’s Comprehensive nated 48 lightweight coats for the Refugee Services and Refugee Services and Knights of youth, while Pegasus Transporta- the Knights Columbus Msgr. Bishop Council tion, Inc. donated 69 gifts. Other of Columbus 2112 in Orlando. gifts were donated by a Bible study Msgr. Bishop Most of the children and their group from Most Precious Blood Council families are from places like Cuba, Parish in Oviedo. 2112. Haiti, the Democratic Republic “It’s just a part of being Catho- (ANDREA of Congo and this was their first lic. I love the kids. I just think of NAVARRO Christmas in the United States. them shivering and I want them to | FC) Amidst the sounds of Christmas be comfortable. It’s a lot of fun for songs and sing-alongs, the Knights us to do this and we hope it keeps served a meal, then each child growing,” said Former Grand awaited eagerly to hear their name Knight Ron Abate. n 3 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019

‘or a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. ‘F They name him wonder-counselor, God-hero, Father-forever, Prince of Peace.’— Isaiah 9:5 FLORIDA Christmas: A three-week season, Catholic DIOCESE OF ORLANDO not just one day of the year Vol. 80, No. 4 50 East Robinson St. My Sisters and Brothers in Christ: bration of Christmas is relegated earth ripened by our love of God cial difficulty or death of a family P.O. Box 1800 How great our joy. Today the to Dec. 24 and 25. After Dec. 25, and bear its fragrant fruit across member. Pope Francis said while Orlando, FL 32802-1800 407-246-4800 Fax 407-246-4942 child whom we seek, the deliv- the secular world begins it mar- the land. it is normal to be afraid of the un- erer of mankind, is born. This keting of sales and Christmas Choose to see how God wants known, we can’t let this direct how PUBLISHER divine gift does not come to us in decorations are taken down and to love you through this Christmas we respond to newcomers in our Bishop John Noonan wrappings of the secular world. fade away, making room for more season and how you accept this love midst, who should be treated with The glitter on the gift is parties and glitter; not and offer it seven-fold. respect and generosity. “Having DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS a star of the heavens; the for the celebration of the Welcome the stranger. We hear doubts and fears is not a sin, the Jennifer Drow [email protected] paper in which the gift Christ-child, but for the this often and we are confused by it. Holy Father explains. “The sin is to is adorned is of human beginning of a new year. Throughout our salvation history, allow these fears to determine our WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER flesh; the gift is offered For us, as Catholics, the many of God’s holy people – proph- responses, to limit our choices, to Glenda Meekins through the womb of the Christmas season be- ets, soldiers, servants and kings – compromise respect and generos- [email protected] earth, our Blessed Moth- gins on the vigil of Dec. were strangers. Jesus was a stranger ity, to feed hostility and rejection,” 407-246-4808 er. This gift to us, Prince 24 and ends Jan. 13, the on the night of his birth, born in a he continued. “The sin is to refuse To submit a request for news coverage of Peace, is not bestowed Bishop Baptism of the Lord – town not his own. What will your to encounter the other, to encoun- in the Diocese of Orlando, email news@ upon a mansion, but laid three full weeks of the offering be for this stranger? Might ter the different, to encounter the orlandodiocese.org. John in a manger. While the Noonan season of Christmas. you shake the hand of the stranger neighbor, when this is in fact a • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: bows and colored paper How will we partake sitting next to you during the cele- privileged opportunity to encoun- Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, torn from their boxes will in the Christmas season? bration of Mass on Christmas with a ter the Lord.” or customerservice@theflorida be thrown into the recy- I hope that we will not bid of prayer for him or her, or greet During the Christmas season, let catholic.org cling bin, this Christmas wrap, resort to the secular machina- the neighbor whom you have never us each be the one who extends the swaddling of the father’s love, is tions of putting Christmas away yet greeted, or yes, offer something favor of the Christ child to another. Notify us of address changes (temporary sacred and we cannot part from for another year. Rather, I pray for the street person whose light If we all were to do this, love one an- or permanent) as soon as possible. Please change your address online at www. him. the desire with which we went shines on a cardboard sign marked other as I have loved you, that stable thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at We all gather to see this child in haste to see this thing that has “homeless?” of Christmas night would burst into 1-888-275-9953. for our faith, like that of the shep- taken place – to find Mary and We have all been strangers— a mansion of the heart that no one herds in the field and the wise Joseph and the infant lying in the new to a class at school or a place of can deny. • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at men, propels us closer and we manger – grows within us and employment or as a neighbor who From one stranger to another, 407-373-0075 or proclaim our belief. fortifies our faith to see the earth just moved in or to a set of circum- blessings this holy Christmas sea- [email protected] In the secular world, the cele- through our natural senses as an stances such as illness or finan- son. n • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at 1-888-275-9953, or [email protected]

State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite Lazarus Free Medical Clinic expands to offer dental care G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- GLENDA MEEKINS area primarily with the migrants,” ther Agostinelli said. “It’s not a mat- tion. “What is offered at this clinic free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 of the Florida Catholic staff said Father Agostinelli, admin- ter of teeth. It’s a matter of the whole is not offered anywhere else – com- EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: istrator of the San Pedro de Jesus health of the body.” passion, help, love of neighbor, but Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade LEESBURG | Catholic Charities Maldonado mission. “People have Many of the clinic’s patients live most of all, they teach you how to Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez hopes to create healthy smiles by a soul and we have to take care of 200 percent below the poverty line. have faith.” Business Manager: Pat Spencer expanding dental benefits to un- the whole person and their differ- Karen Meza is one of those patients. The volunteers at Lazarus Free Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro insured patients in the northwest ent needs.” Without their help, the mother of Dental Clinic at St. Paul will contin- Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael Carlock corner of Central Florida. The staff at the medical clinic has four’s breast cancer would have ue to serve in this tradition of love Advertising Graphic Designer: The new Lazarus Free Dental tirelessly served thousands of peo- gone untreated. From the time of and charity. Father Agostinelli is Michael Jimenez Clinic will have two chairs open ple over the past 10 years. The hope her diagnosis to treatment (pro- grateful for their selflessness. Advertising Sales Associate: Valerie Casko one day per week at St. Paul Catholic is the new dental clinic will bridge cured through Lazarus), her cancer “They’re doing the work of God Advertising Sales Associate: Tim Shea Community in Leesburg beginning the gap between programs. had spread to her lymph nodes and and the Kingdom of God. Secondly, in early 2019. It’s been a long-time “All the doctors are telling me metastasized. it gives a missionary dimension to Have a comment/want more info/have a story suggestion? Leave your feedback goal of Father Gianni Agostinelli, that 80 percent of medical prob- “Incredibly, this has been the the church and the community— at www.thefloridacatholic.org; click reader who oversees Lazarus Free Medical lems start in the mouth—bacteria, door of my salvation, as if they had doing something for others. Jesus feedback link in the top menu. Clinic in nearby Wildwood. infection, bad digestion and all opened the gates of heaven,” she said, ‘What you do for others, you “I was sent here to work in this that, so this is very important,” Fa- said, tearfully recalling her situa- do for me.’” n Send statewide news releases to [email protected]

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The Florida Catholic (ISSN 0746-4584) publishes semi-monthly for the Dioceses of Or- per’s policy and standards in Catholic Press Association. The appearance of advertising in all media. Political advertising not accepted. Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, lando, Palm Beach and Venice for $26 per year in Florida, $32 per year in the U.S., and in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services and products. Com- FL 32862 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The $95 per year foreign, by The Florida Catholic Inc., 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, plaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or to your local Florida Catholic, P.O. Box 4993, Orlando, FL 32802-4993. Member, Catholic Press As- FL 32801-1619. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertisements contrary to pa- Better Business Bureau. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising sociation; subscriber to Catholic News Service (CNS). Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 4 Head of Bishop Grady Villas reappointed to state council

GLENDA MEEKINS in the nation in funding services disabilities can really share what it’s the standpoint of human dignity. of the Florida Catholic staff for people with disabilities. John- like to be part of the system. They’re All people should have the oppor- son said almost 22,000 people are depending on services to give them tunity to be productive and earn ORLANDO | Gov. Rick Scott re- on a wait list for services, which access to the community and be as wages. The council reflects that so- appointed Kevin Johnson, execu- could mean they wait for seven to safe and independent as possible. cial justice concept. Beyond that, the tive director of Bishop Grady Villas, 10 years. The council is seeking a For others, parents may be the only council reflects the beautiful gifts to another four-year term on the “base-level” of support that invests voice. They offer personal experi- that each one of us has. We’re try- Florida Developmental Disabilities in an infrastructure that promotes ence,” he said. “So many of these ing to be proponents of giving those Council. Johnson is one of 25 mem- “less dependence” on the part of the families have had to fight to give individuals opportunities to share bers comprised of parents, self-ad- individuals with disabilities. This their child opportunity and access. those gifts with their community vocates, professionals and agencies philosophy shifts the burden of pro- It gives me perspective and helps me and be fully included as members of working to improve and promote viding jobs from the state to private understand the business end of pro- society, rather than just being some- meaningful participation in the life industry, ultimately promoting indi- viding services. It calibrates what is one who is taken care of. The whole of Floridians with developmental Kevin Johnson vidual independence. most important for people most im- purpose of the council is to promote disabilities. Bishop Grady Villas is Johnson added the council’s di- pacted by the work of the council.” community inclusion as opposed to recognized at the state and national community for qualified and well- verse membership “ensures the A parishioner at Corpus Christi traditional institutionalization. It re- level for its residential model and compensated direct support profes- council is representing the interests Parish in Celebration, Johnson said ally embraces a true understanding work. sionals,” he added. of people with disabilities.” “Church history is rich in support- of the uniqueness and value of each “It’s a great chance to be at the Florida ranks among the lowest “Some people with intellectual ing the rights of the worker – from human life.” n table and work with state agency heads and all these various people TO ADVERTISE who care deeply about people with CALL 1-888-275-9953 COMMUNITY BUSINESS DIRECTORY developmental disabilities in Flor- ATTORNEYS ATTORNEYS ida,” said Johnson, who added he brings a distinct perspective to the ALTAMONTE SPRINGS WINTER SPRINGS council because Bishop Grady Vil- las is an atypical community-based residential program. “I really feel Andrew J. Chmelir, P.A. blessed to be able to represent, not Attorney-at-law just people and families at Bishop Grady Villas, but the greater com- • Employment and labor 1188 Buttonwood Circle • Criminal law, family law and general practice munity of Floridians with develop- Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 • General corporate • Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake and Brevard counties mental disabilities.” 407-865-7473 Johnson said the council allows • Supreme Court Certified Circuit Court, 351 E. State Road 434, Suite A • Winter Springs, FL 32708 Fax: 407-865-5979 11841-1221

Family Law and Appellate Mediator 11816-1221 him the opportunity to take what [email protected] 407-327-8899 he has learned as a provider and • Trained and experienced arbitrator www.robertwraschlaw.com “spread best practices and advocate [email protected] | www.jmcflaw.com for individuals.” ORLANDO HOME HEALTH CARE In the past four years, Johnson 11870-1221 has worked on numerous issues. He Bankruptcy Law is most proud of the strides in gain- • Former Chairman, Bankruptcy Committee, OCBA 12572-1221 Ability Homecare ful employment for people with dis- • Author, “Forgive Us Our Debts: When is it Okay For more information visit www.abilityhomecarehha.com abilities, especially through Project for Christians to File Bankruptcy?” SEARCH and the Employment • Up to 24 Hour Care • Transporting to/from Appointments First Initiative. Project SEARCH is • Helping people in our community find financial • Affordable Rates • Errands/Shopping a transition-age, youth-model that peace for more than 20 years • Personal Hygiene • Rewarding Companionship Bishop Grady Villas has expanded 816 N. Thornton Ave. Orlando, FL 32803 • Medication Reminders • Respite Care for Families • Meal Preparation • Day/Night, Live-in/Live-Out Care in Osceola and Seminole counties, Anne-Marie L. Bowen, P.A. 407-228-1300 • Light Housekeeping • Temporary - Long Term beyond the residential community. Lic. #299994802 www.bowenbankruptcylaw.com Others have implemented the mod- 5300 S. Orange Ave. • Orlando, FL 32809 el throughout the state. The part- 407-668-4468 nership is between a school district, OVIEDO LANDSCAPING state vocational rehabilitation pro- 11822-1221 gram and a large employer that can COMPLETE LANDSCAPING provide three rotations for students with disabilities in their senior year Commercial/Residential of high school. Bishop Grady Vil- Precision Landscape Management ESTABLISHED 1976 las then helps place the individual [email protected] according to their newly acquired • Contracts • Wills • Estates • Powers of Attorney • Living Trusts and Estate Planning • Title Insurance 407-876-8851 skills and personal aptitude. • All Elder Law and Probate Matters • Real Property 12512-1221 Johnson described Employment • Foreclosures • Guardianships SERVICES: • Landscape install • Maintenance • Arbor care First as a “major achievement.” It is • Sodding • French drains • Irrigation install and service a collaborative agreement between 1519 W. Broadway (SR 426), Oviedo, FL 32765 “a majority of the state bodies that 407-365-5696 | www.cloningerfiles.com Visit us online at: www.PrecisionLandscapeMgmt.netwww.PrecisionLandscapeMgmt.net have an impact on employment for people with disabilities.” Signed by TITUSVILLE / OVIEDO SENIORS ADVISOR Gov. Scott, these agencies now pri- 11840-1221 oritize employment as an option for Health Planning these individuals. o Turning 65, have questions about Medicare? “Bishop Grady Villas is much Titusville/ o Retiring and losing your current health coverage? bigger than our residents. We’re Cocoa Beach/Viera o Unhappy with your current plan, considering a change? serving 48 residents and 120 ad- 321-269-1511 o Why Part D (prescription drug plan) is very important. ditional people in Central Florida Elder law attorneys o Who or what covers Long Term Care? who might live with their parents or • Estate planning Oviedo o For these and other questions, please call today for a in their own apartment. Those are • Medicaid/Nursing home planning 407-542-3965 12234-1221 FREE consultation. the people who have been predomi- • Probate and Guardianships Mike Reisert Licensed by the Florida Dept. of Financial Services nantly served by Project SEARCH,” • Real estate closings Johnson said. “The council has also www.AllenderLaw.com 321-213-7445 Parishioner, Holy Name of Jesus • Member, Knights of Columbus highlighted the crisis in the provider The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask an attorney to send you free written information about his or her qualifications and experience. 5 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Young grand marshal teaches lesson about beauty

GLENDA MEEKINS in charge of decorating a float for ful just the way you are. It doesn’t Andrea, left, of the Florida Catholic staff the Christmas parade, what story- matter what others think about accompanies book would you select to inspire you. Being different is hard, but her LAKELAND | One student’s your float, why that book and how really good in other ways,” she daughter, love for Hans Christian Anders- would you decorate your float? wrote. “My float would be a huge Laney, in the en’s “The Ugly Duckling” not only Laney knew immediately about swan with a crown. There would Lakeland taught her how to appreciate peo- what book she would write. be bubbles and feathers every- Christmas ple for who they are, but garnered “I would love to inspire my float where and it would encourage Parade. her the honor of Grand Marshal in with The Ugly Duckling story be- others to ‘Just Be You.’ Like the Laney was the Lakeland’s Annual Christmas cause he is special and he gets book says, ‘I always knew you were selected Parade, Dec. 6. made fun of a lot,” she wrote in special,’ mother duck quacked.” as Grand Marshal for Laney is a fifth-grader at Resur- her essay. “I would decorate my The story celebrates the beauty her essay rection Catholic School in Lake- float using a beautiful swan. I of each individual and Laney says on The Ugly land. When the Junior League of would make him the most special it was always her favorite. Suffer- Duckling. Greater Lakeland held an essay one and make him beautiful! ‘I’m ing from diabetes, Laney lost her (MARIA DEL contest to determine who would a swan,’ the Ugly Duckling cried hair at age 3, while in preschool. AMO | FC) be the Lakeland Christmas Pa- happily! The people of Lakeland She frequently wears a tiara and rade Grand Marshal, Laney will say, ‘Look at the beautiful has more than 20 of them all in jumped at the chance. For the es- Swan!’” gold, silver and pink. She lost one say contest, called “A Storybook The 10-year-old’s wisdom re- once and her mother, Andrea, de- Christmas”, Polk County students flects that of someone far more cided to ensure the ordeal never in first through fifth grade were mature in age. “I have chosen this happened again. Laney prefers asked this question: If you were book because you can be beauti- the tiaras to her wig. Laney as another fifth-grader and next year, stood cheering along She explained, “My mom al- fail to notice that she looks dif- the parade route with her father, ways said it doesn’t matter what ferent. Her personality is so viva- David. Several floats behind her, you look like—that God made you cious that it exudes and welcomes school friends rode a Catholic and everybody, and God didn’t friends into her charms.” They schools float including students make anything ugly.” Over and truly see her for who she is. from Resurrection, Santa Fe Cath- over again, Christ teaches that in- So on Dec. 6, as temperatures olic High School, St. Joseph Cath- ner beauty is true beauty. dropped and she mounted the olic Academy in Lakeland and St. “Laney possesses the ability to Chevrolet Camaro convertible Joseph Catholic School in Winter be comfortable with who she is and with her name draped on its side, Haven. her beauty radiates from within,” she presided as Grand Marshal, It will long be remembered that says Resurrection Catholic School sitting next to her mother. She at this year’s Lakeland Christmas principal Deborah Kraus Schwope. said she looked forward to “wav- Parade, a young lady taught many “Students in her class are very pro- ing, smiling and seeing people I about the beauty of being human, tective of her, should anyone com- know.” Her sister, Saylor, 15, who and what it looks like to be created Premier Catholic Funeral Home ment on her lack of hair. They see will attend Santa Fe High School in the image and likeness of God. n ON-SITE CREMATORY • SIMPLE and TRADITIONAL CREMATION Sacraments offer faithful healing • TRADITIONAL BURIAL GLENDA MEEKINS “No one is isolated and the “Our parish demographic is • ADVANCE PLANNING of the Florida Catholic staff wounded body of Christ is made largely comprised of retired folks 3 LOCATIONS manifest in their presence and and seniors. We have a very active NEW SMYRNA BEACH | Many action,” she said. “Just as the rec- Ministry to the Sick in our parish West Orange Chapel people came to Our Lady Star of onciling love of God is communi- as well,” Mikolajewski said. the Sea Parish in New Smyrna cated in the Eucharist, so too, is it Kathleen and Tom Siegle are Beach to pray for healing and to communicated in the laying on of one of those couples and they re- 407-295-2273 receive anointing with holy oil hands and the anointing with oil.” flect on “God’s healing mercy and 1400 Matthew Paris Blvd. • Ocoee, FL 34761 from the Sacrament of Anointing The parish celebrates Mass and love” in their lives.” of the Sick. the healing Sacrament twice a “Receiving the Sacrament of Maitland Chapel Dec. 15 marked the fourth year year, during the seasons of Advent the Anointing of the Sick opens us the parish offered the Sacrament and Lent. Traditionally well at- to grace and renews us in mind, 407-695-CARE (2273) as part of a Mass celebration. Alice tended, lunch follows in the par- body and spirit,” she said. “We Mikolajewski, parish director of ish hall, encouraging fellowship both look forward to the com- 9001 N. Orlando Ave. • Maitland, FL 32751 music and liturgy, explained how and opportunities for friendship. munal celebration every Advent, celebrating the sacrament during The parish also confers the Sac- and feel grateful to those around Sanford Chapel the Eucharist “evokes a certain rament of Anointing regularly in us who radiate the peace of Christ solidarity among those receiving private homes, nursing homes, and light our way.” n it.” and hospitals. 407-322-5131 12170-1221 905 Laurel Ave., Sanford, FL 32771 Local Vincentians featured on EWTN

Todd M. DeGusipe STAFF REPORT ference at Corpus Christi Parish in this film and the stories of our Vin- Catholic Funeral Director/Owner Celebration. centians and the people they serve Fourth Degree Knight CELEBRATION | The work of “We’re proud of the outreach our are truly spiritually uplifting.” local Vincentians, members of St. Vincentians at Corpus Christi are Trylko served as producer, host Vincent de Paul Orlando, is be- providing to our brothers and sis- and reporter on the television series ing featured in an upcoming film ters in need and we’re excited to be that inspired the film. While Season www.degusipefuneralhome.com scheduled to air on the Eternal included in this film,” St. Vincent 1 episodes of “Our Faith in Action: Word Television Network (EWTN) de Paul Orlando executive director Today’s Society of St. Vincent de Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, at 3:30 p.m. Trace Trylko said. “The spirit and Paul” air throughout the year on DIGNITY • HONOR • RESPECT “Our Faith in Action” includes charism of our patron, St. Vincent EWTN, production of Season 2 is Vincentians with the Orlando con- de Paul, are on display throughout already underway. n Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 6 Parish brings Christmas to needy families

GLENDA MEEKINS arms, in pure love,” Avellino said. tributing them to needy families,” of the Florida Catholic staff “It’s amazing.” he said. “Now we have 10 schools Avellino said she fought back we work with.” WINTER SPRINGS | Lissette tears all day Dec. 8, as she made School guidance counselors and Avellino did not know how she was her way through the aisles with principals each select 10 needy going to handle Christmas this year. “elf” Betty Ann Dolan. Dolan is a families. In addition, the parish has The mother of two left her job in veteran helper and former hospice a list of families they serve through February to take care of her 2-year- nurse. She immediately connected their outreach program. Weeks old daughter who has special needs to Avellino’s situation. prior to the store’s grand opening, and whose legs are inverted in- “Of all the people who have parishioners bring gifts to the altar ward 90 degrees, making it diffi- come through the line that I would during Mass. Gifts are then brought cult to walk. A week later, her son, get, her (story) gives me goose- to the gymnasium and volunteers a Pinecrest Elementary student in bumps,” Dolan said. “Having my set up. When they open for shop- Sanford, was diagnosed with leu- own knowledge of what she’s going ping, the gym is transformed into kemia. Reduced to one income and through — trying to get help and a department store, divided by sec- with her son in an out of the hospi- pay the hospital bills. Although her tions and aisles. tal, bills were mounting. son isn’t in hospice, I can relate. God Remaining gifts are purchased Aware of their struggles, Shei- puts me where I’m supposed to be in bulk from monetary donations, la Giacomo, a social worker at each and every time. I just follow and bicycles are donated by parish- Pinecrest Elementary, registered the path. It’s wonderful.” ioners Al and Linda Franks. The “Elf” Betty Ann Dolan helps Lissette Avellino shop for her children the family for St. Stephen’s Christ- That same spirit runs through all Franks’ Christmas Bike Program at the St. Stephen Christmas Store, Dec. 8. (GLENDA MEEKINS | FC) mas Store. For more than 15 years, the volunteers, from coordinators to provided 65 bikes to St. Stephen the St. Stephen Parish in Winter elves and porters who take wrapped Parish this year and have donated their parents and have everything teers are happy to make them feel Springs has greeted families in need gifts out to the clients’ cars. Ethan, a 6,500 bikes over the past 18 years. gift-wrapped. When the shopping better.” with coffee, cookies and doughnuts high school freshman, is in his third The idea came to them after they spree is over, families may select Volunteer Kathy Barrett con- while 240 volunteers with smiling year as a porter. shopped at Walmart many years from various gently used coats, curred with the pastor’s statement. faces help them with childcare, “It’s really fun. I like doing it,” he ago. The woman in front of them sweaters and other items. She spends most of Black Friday navigate the aisles of toys and get said. “You’re giving hope to people was on welfare and did not have Msgr. Bluett said the parish’s scouring for deals to stock the store. their gifts wrapped and loaded. who really need it and it’s helping enough money to pay for her child’s inspiration for the program comes “You can’t help but be inspired When Giacomo told Avellino she them find their path to get back on bicycle. The Franks’ pitched in what from Matthew 25:40 — “And the by the people who come through would be one of more than 160 fam- track.” was needed. king will say to them in reply, here,” she said. “You get such a wide ilies selected to shop at the store, the Msgr. John Bluett, pastor of St. On the ride home, Al told Linda, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you variety of veterans and people who mother was so overjoyed, she cried. Stephen Parish, recalled how the “We can do something about this,” did for one of these least brothers of would never find themselves in a “It’s so overwhelming and joyous store started out small some 15 and the bike program started. mine, you did for me.’” place like this. They’re so humbled to see how many people love other years ago. While parents are shopping, “These are people who have and gracious. It’s the best of hu- people so— reaching out with open “We started buying gifts and dis- children have a chance to shop for great needs,” he said. “Our volun- manity that comes out.” n Gift reveals God’s presence in act of giving

GLENDA MEEKINS a love of Jesus and God. When you I’m just the person in between. God of the Florida Catholic staff have, you give.” knew this was another thing that White got to work and reached would help him (John) reach his ORLANDO | Kristen White out to her friends on Facebook. Her goals.” wanted to follow a personal tradi- faith and social work community White made a special delivery to tion and sponsor someone in need raised $800 in 24 hours. Along with John’s house Dec. 13. The gesture during the Christmas holidays. her own contribution and the help of giving, along with the gift itself, While she was a college student of Black Friday sales, she was able mean a lot to John. in Indiana, White had sponsored a to buy a laptop, headphones, and “For someone you’ve never child’s Christmas through the Sal- a Netflix card because she wanted known to do that for you and is vation Army. The graduate student him to have, not only something he thinking that maybe you need is spending a semester in Orlando needed, but something just for fun. something for Christmas means and turned to Catholic Charities “That’s the way I would decom- more than I can express,” he said. of Central Florida to help her find press,” she said. “That was such a “Some people skip over you like you someone to sponsor. luxury that I took advantage of. I don’t exist. She didn’t do that. She Kim Latt, caseworker for the Ref- John, a young Haitian refugee, receives a laptop computer, wanted that for him too. I’m really asked me what I wanted. She didn’t ugee Youth Program, told her about headphones and a bonus Netflix gift card from graduate student and blessed that there are people that know me, but made this incredible John, a 16-year-old client she was sponsor Kristen White. The gifts will help John next year as a college also see there is a need to give and gesture.” helping prepare for the Florida State student, while providing a little down time in between assignments. feel God’s movement.” White’s choice to give turned into Assessment test, an exam required (CHRISTINE YOUNG | FC) White said her parents and Cath- a community effort to make it a re- of all seniors for graduation. John’s olic school teachers raised her with ality. family emigrated from Haiti after thing ever.” “It was going to be hard not having a commitment to stewardship. This “Everyone who donated is in seeking political asylum. One of Latt asked John what he desired a place to store my files.” experience has shown her how God some way connected to Christ,” four children, John attends Wekiva most, and he offered a humble re- When White, his sponsor, heard plays a huge part in her life. she said. “To know that some- High School and hopes to go to col- ply: “Anything you give me, I will be his request she panicked because “God proves himself every day, one doesn’t get to have Christmas lege to become a pilot, provided he grateful about it.” she didn’t know if she would be able all the time. It can be in big ways makes my heart sad, so I just like gets the necessary scholarships. But Latt pursued the question to afford something John clearly and small ways, but he’s always being able to give back. When John got Latt’s call, he was convincing John that it would be needed. there. When I was praying about it “Social work is where I am dedi- surprised and happy. “You know easier for his sponsor to shop for a “But then, a lot of prayer and and wondering how I was going to cating my life, helping kids who, many people who will wish you a gift if she knew what he wanted. He thinking made me realize there do this, I realized God doesn’t do maybe aren’t experiencing the Merry Christmas, but they don’t voiced the first thing that popped is no reason that God would have things that aren’t for a reason,” she same things as John, but they’re go- give you a gift,” he said. “Not know- into his mind. connected me to Kim, and Kim said. “I’ve known that my whole life, ing through a tough time,” she adding someone, you don’t expect any- “Since I am a senior and college to John, if I wasn’t supposed to do but sometimes it just smacks you in ed. “I am going to be asking people thing. So when I heard this from is next, you need computers for this,” said the 23-year-old. “Social the face. How can you even doubt for the rest of my life to help these Catholic Charities, it was the best projects and notes,” he explained. work is a big part of my life as well as for a second that He’s here with us? kids.” n 7 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 NEWS FROM around the diocese Ministry BREVARD COUNTY helps ease Community packs relationship food for the hungry pain More than 500 volunteers gathered at St. John the Evangelist Par- RACHEL BULMAN ish in Viera Dec. 1, to pack food for Florida Catholic correspondent The Children’s Hunger Project, which helps ensure Brevard Coun- ORLANDO | To help over- ty elementary school students come the pain of a broken rela- have nutritious food to bring home tionship, a program at Sacred every Friday in their backpack. Heart Parish in New Smyrna It currently serves more than Beach follows the example of 2,000 children from 46 schools. St. Monica, mother of St. Augus- Cheryl Cominsky, community tine. outreach coordinator for the proj- St. Monica is recalled for ect and a parishioner at St. John the suffering caused by her the Evangelist, said she worked husband’s adultery and her with parish staff and volunteers prayerful life dedicated to the for months to plan the large scale reformation of her son. One of packing event and was overjoyed Members of the community pack food items Dec. 1 at St. John the Evangelist in Viera. (PAM STIMPSON | FC) the prayers with the support. to St. Monica ‘It’s a place “It was just wonderful,” Comin- ing of electronic balls,” explained contains this sky said. “They’re such a generous Peg Harding technology specialist. line: “I des- where we group of people and we were just “In sixth grade, students built Lego perately want thrilled to see 500 people come robots then programmed them my child to can share out.” to complete space missions with return to how much Linh Bui, another parishioner, simulated challenges. Eighth grade C h r i s t i n jumped at the chance to volunteer programmed online calculators to his Church, it hurts with her husband and their four solve algebraic equations and, as but I can’t to have children, ages 11, 8, 6, and 3. Bui an enrichment activity, replicated do it alone. I insists they involve their children a classroom to model size in correct need God’s (anyone) so they can experience service ratios using a 3D printer to furnish help.” With reject a to others first hand. Father John key items in the room.” t h i s s a me Antony, pastor, encouraged parish Ethan, a sixth grader, said a lot of thought in person.’ children to participate in the food math was involved in the project. m i nd, t he packing, and there was a special “We had to use degrees and angles. M o n i c a ’ s — Kathy area for the younger ones to color We based it off rotations. It was te- Moms min- Bartos and add stickers to the packages. dious, but it was really fun,” he said. istry began at More than 5,000 packages of food “I enjoyed it because we had to start Sacred Heart were packed for children in need. Sixth grade students at St. Margaret Mary Catholic School build somewhere, at a random point. And Catholic Church. “We try to always find opportu- Lego robots, then program them to complete space missions with once we got the robot going, that’s Deacon Lou Bartos, and his nities where our children can take simulated challenges. (GRACIE SANTIAGO MAZANEC) when our wheels started turning we wife, Kathy, lead the program. part and really have a tangible role would start making adjustments, After experiencing a rift in their in the charity work,” Bui said. “It number, to come together for a ORANGE COUNTY like ‘Oh no, it’s going too far.’” own family and speaking with was uplifting to see a parish com- purpose and for my children to His sixth grade classmate, Julia, friends, they realized they were munity show up in such a huge witness that.” said the program was good for the not alone. “It’s a place where we Students learn brain. “It’s really good because your can share how much it hurts to brain is always moving trying to have a child or a brother (or any- programming figure out how to code the different one) reject a person,” Kathy said. in one hour obstacles,” said Julia, who hopes to She shared how her relation- study marine biology. “I think we’ll ship with her son and daughter Teachers at St. Margaret Mary need to use underwater robots to — born 10 years apart — had Catholic School in Winter Park discover new things and, in order to been very close. But now there took part in the worldwide, Hour build those robots, it all starts with is a “break within the family,” Margaret Joyce McCloskey, M.A. of Code, during Computer Science something very small.” Kathy said. Seeing no logical ex- • Individuals, Couples • Family, Groups Week, Dec. 3-9, teaching students The Hour of Code originated in planation for the estrangement, Licensed Mental Health Counselor #7868 | National Certified Counselor #63662 basic programming skills. Lynn December 2013. With support from she reached out for reconcili- Scan Design Building Green, computer teacher, explained entrepreneurs including Bill Gates ation, but has yet to reconnect 12196-1221 999 Douglas Ave., Suite 3303 • Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 the school first participated in Hour and President Barack Obama, more with her son and his family. 407-920-0777 | www.celebratelovelifeandyou.com of Code three years ago. That led than 20 million people participat- “We thought it would be good to adding coding as part of the ed. Popularity moved the program to start this support group,” technology class curriculum for into classrooms across the world in Kathy said. kindergarten through sixth grade. more than 180 countries. The ministry offers resourc- Students in grades four to six began “These fun and engaging lessons es, support, and a safe place working with Scratch programming provide students with opportuni- with for people to share with language, a safe, free, and sharable ties to utilize technology—to see it others empathetic and willing web-based program developed at come alive as they learn to code,” to listen. Monica’s Moms tries to Massachusetts Institute of Tech- said Katie Walsh, principal. “Tech- minister to anyone who is expe- nology. This year, all students par- nology is changing by the moment, riencing difficulties in relation- ticipated in one-hour blocks or two and it is essential that Catholic ships, conflict or rejection. n 30-minute blocks. school students participate in var- “Using creative apps, the stu- ied innovative technology learning Monica’s Moms meets second dents used coding and program- experiences.” n Tuesdays at 7 p.m. in the Knight’s ming to direct animated dancing Hall at Sacred Heart. Time is sub- figures, take care of electronic pets, Glenda Meekins and Carly Mat- ject to change. and guide the movement and light- thews contributed to this report. Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 8

organ. Free-will offering collected. 407-484-7736; 407-880-4673, ext. gmail.com, 407-925-6274, DIOCESAN EVENTS FYI Friends of the Music Ministry, 231; [email protected]. Learn lcarmacc.com. stjamesorlando.org/ministries-2/ more and/or apply: www.ndmva. World Youth Day: Jan. 22-27, To submit parish, school, diocesan Secular Franciscans of the fomm-friends-of-the-music- org. Lady Poverty Fraternity, first 2019, Panama. Theme: “I am the or related event information to be ministry. Catholic Volunteers in Sundays, 12:30-3:30 p.m., San servant of the Lord. May it be considered for publication in the done to me according to your Women’s Guild annual Florida is accepting applications Pedro Spiritual Development Diocese of Orlando and Florida rummage sale: Friday, Jan. 25, for a year of full-time service Center, Building 100, 2400 Dike word.” The Orlando delegation Catholic calendar of events, please will be traveling Jan. 19-28, 2019. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. beginning in January. Applicants Road, Winter Park. Dan Hardester, https://www.orlandodiocese.org/ visit www.orlandodiocese.org/ 26, 8:30 a.m.-noon, Immaculate should have college degree or 407-687-6647, danhardester@ ministries-offices/young-adult- our-diocese/events-calendar/ and Conception Parish hall, 3780 equivalent life experience, and yahoo.com. ministry/. click “Suggest Event.” Submissions Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach. a heart for serving marginalized Secular Franciscans of 321-953-8368. communities in Florida or the Taste of the Villages: Tuesday, should be received 4-6 weeks prior the Mother of the Living to the date of the event. Not all Wills and estate planning, Dominican Republic. Volunteers Gospel, first Saturdays, 10 Feb. 5, The Savannah Center, serve in teaching, community submissions will be printed due to Catholic medical care, funeral a.m.-noon, Incarnation Parish, 1575 Buena Vista Blvd., The development, special education, Villages. Food tasting, live and space limitations and other consid- rites and planning: Wednesday, Royal Hall, 1515 Edgewater Jan. 30, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., St. social work, youth programs, Drive, Orlando. Margie Sweeney, silent auctions benefit Catholic erations. immigration and legal services, Charities of Central Florida’s Theresa Parish, 11528 S.E. U.S. 407-973-3366; facebook.com/ Highway 301, Belleview. Learn and more. Benefits include MotheroftheLivingGospel. Lazarus Free Medical Clinic on housing, health insurance, their 10th anniversary. $50 per about important documents, such as wills and powers of attorney. monthly living stipend, quarterly person. Contact Renee Baker, programs, 407-671-6322. retreats, leadership training, and [email protected], 407-451-5315. Understand Catholic practice and SUPPORT • Senior day: Thursday, Jan. 10, teachings on medical care. Reduce AmeriCorps Education Award for Go to https://cflcc.org/taste-of-the- 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., St. Francis Hall. qualifying positions. Apply now at villages/ to register. financial burden of funerals by MINISTRIES/ Exploring Prayers of Different planning early. Free. Presented by cvif.org. Faiths with Dr. Isabel Fernandez. professionals in the field. R.S.V.P.: St. Vincent de Paul Orlando PEER GROUPS $15, includes lunch. Mass ends the 352-245-245. provides volunteer opportunities MASSES/PRAYER day. Sunshine Seniors, third Wills and estate planning, through its stores and food Thursdays, noon (except in the • “Franciscan Heart of Thomas SESSIONS financial planning Thursday, pantries for students needing summer), Blessed Trinity Parish, Merton” retreat: Friday, Jan. Jan. 31, 12:30-3:30 p.m., Our volunteer hours. Apply at 4545 Anderson Road, Orlando. 18-Sunday, Jan. 20, 2019. Retreat Interpreted Mass for the Lady of the Lakes Parish, 1310 svdporlando.org. Enjoy a potluck lunch, outings and will inspire participants to live deaf: Sundays, 11 a.m. Mass, Maximillian St., Deltona. Learn Sign language volunteers: faith. Turner Flynn, 407-277-1702. richer, deeper, and more justice- Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1014 about wills, powers of attorney, Parishes throughout the diocese Separated and divorced: N. Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach. minded lives. planning and relieving burden of need volunteer American • Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Holy An American Sign Language • Saturday morning book club: funeral expenses. Free. Presented Sign Language interpreters to Redeemer Parish, 1603 N. Thacker, interpreter will be provided. Meet Saturday, Jan. 19, 9:30-11:30 a.m., by professionals in the field. help deaf or hearing-impaired Kissimmee. Sylvester Edwards, in the café, 10:15 a.m., for a “deaf Administration Building. Group R.S.V.P.: 386-574-2131. individuals fully participate in 407-460-0707. coffee chat” with pastries. 386- discussion on “Elijah in Jerusalem” “Catholics Returning Home”: the celebration of Mass each • Catholic Divorce Survival 255-0433. by Michael O’Brien, led by St. Vincent de Paul Parish, 5323 week. Position requires yearlong Guide, 12-week program, Feast of the Holy Innocents Franciscan Father Blase Romano. E. County Road 462, Wildwood. commitment to serving one Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., St. prayer service: Friday, Dec. 28, Free. Informal sessions offered Saturday or Sunday Mass per Margaret Mary Parish, 526 N. 7 p.m., St. Mary Magdalen Parish, • Retrouvaille marriage retreat: for non-practicing Catholics week, and a diocesan background Park Ave., Winter Park. Cost: 861 Maitland Ave., Altamonte Friday, Jan. 25-Sunday, Jan. who are seeking answers to screening. Must be 18 and older. $20, scholarships available. Lori Springs. To remember the Holy 27, 2019. For marriages facing questions about returning to cflcc.org/volunteer. Reinneck, lori@stmargaretmary. Innocents who died at the hands difficult challenges. Program helps the faith. Deacon Dan Pallo, Catholic Charities of Central org, 407-645-0284. of Herod, as well as all those lost couples restore their marriage [email protected], 352- Florida seeks volunteers for the through abortion, miscarriages or and rebuild a loving relationship 391-9338. following programs. Visit cflcc.org • Coffee and conversation, young children who have died. All through better communication. /volunteer or contact volunteers@ second Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Our Lady are invited, especially those who 352-274-4614. cflcc.org or 407-658-1818, ext. of Lourdes, 1014 N. Halifax Ave., have lost a child. Please bring an • Mental health first aid: 1026. Daytona Beach. Leslie Bonner, ANNOUNCEMENTS 386-265-1199. ornament to decorate the Tree Wednesday, Jan. 30, and Friday, • Volunteers needed to help of Remembrance to represent Feb. 1, 2019, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Catholic Charities Mission sort, pack, stock and distribute • “Divorce Care Ministry Adults children who died. Sponsored by Two-day training to understand Markets need donations. food to those in need at Agape and Children,” Mondays, 6:30-8 Respect Life Ministry. 407-265- risk factors and warning signs Please consider donating personal Mission Market, 1771 N. Semoran p.m., Holy Name of Jesus, 3050 2307. of mental health problems. care items such as toothbrushes, Blvd., Orlando, Monday-Friday. N. Highway A1A, Indialantic. Program teaches children how Migration Mass: Sunday, Understand and learn appropriate toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, • Volunteer medical God’s love can strengthen and Jan. 20, 2019, 5 p.m., Holy support through a five-step hand soap, body wash, shampoo/ professionals such as MDs, PAs, help them find hope and joy; Cross Catholic Church, 12600 action plan. $60, materials/lunch conditioner, deodorant, feminine RNs, OBGYNs, EKG technicians, parents can attend the adult Marsfield Ave., Orlando. Bishop included. Hosted by Catholic care products, toilet paper, endocrinologists, orthopedic Divorce Care program the same Bernard Harrington invites you Charities of Central Florida. diapers and baby wipes. Mission surgeons, certified health evening. 321-773-2783. to celebrate the beginning Market at 1771 N. Semoran Blvd., educators, general and nurse of National Migration Week, Orlando: Donations accepted practitioners needed at in Families with incarcerated recognizing the contributions COMMUNITY Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Wildwood, Eustis and St. Cloud. loved ones: 407-658-1818, ext. 2335. Agape of immigrants, refugees, Life Choices Women’s • Third Saturdays, 9 a.m., St. EVENTS Mission Market at 644 S. 9th St., migrants and survivors of human Center, a Catholic pro-life Mary Magdalen Parish, Mother Lake Wales: Donations accepted trafficking in our communities pregnancy resource center, Teresa Room, 861 Maitland Ave., Dr. Martin Luther King Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-11 a.m. as well as to highlight the 441 Maitland Ave., Altamonte Altamonte Springs. 407-463-5780 ‘Gospel Explosion’ Birthday and 12-4 p.m., and Fridays, 5-7 work of the Church to serve Springs, is in need of volunteer or email [email protected]. and accompany newcomers. Celebration: Sunday, Jan. 13, p.m.; 863-676-1556. 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Our Lady lay counselors (training provided), Bereavement support For more information, contact nurses/sonographers to perform groups: the Office of Advocacy and of Lourdes Parish, 1014 Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach. Join local ultrasounds (training provided), • Life after loss grief support, Justice, 407-658-1818, x. 1086 or VOLUNTEERS administrative assistance, St. James Cathedral social hall, [email protected]. churches and Greater Friendship (male choir), Allen Chapel, mime NEEDED handymen, help with light 215 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, White Mass: Saturday, Feb. artist Brian Smith, praise dancers cleaning, and receptionists. third Saturdays, 9-11 a.m. 2, 6 p.m., Ascension Parish, 2950 and more. Contact Eretta Morris, Notre Dame AmeriCorps Accepting donations of baby Breakfast provided. Free. jreyes@ N. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne. 386-677-9557. service openings: Notre items (gently used or new, please), stjamesorlando.org; 407-422-2055, All are invited. Mass recognizes Dame AmeriCorps, based at especially diapers and wipes. Drop ext. 101. the ministry of those who Blessed Sacrament 40 Hours of Devotion: Thursday, Jan. 17, Hope CommUnity Center in off at back door during office • Holy Redeemer Parish office, protect life and care for the ill Apopka, seeks people to serve hours. 321-422-4168. 1603 N. Thacker Ave., Kissimmee, and dying, such as physicians, 7 p.m. to Saturday, Jan. 19, noon, Blessed Sacrament Parish, 702 in low-income communities of second and fourth Wednesdays, nurses, compassionate care immigrants, people of color and 5-6:30 p.m. 407-847-2500; ministers, ministers of consolation, 12th Street, Clermont. This 40 Hours Devotion will begin with working poor. Volunteers gain SECULAR Sylvester Edwards, 407-460-0707; chaplains, mental health workers, skills, earn a living allowance search ministry of consolation at and all in the medical profession. a Solemn Mass and Procession at 7 p.m., concluding with Solemn (about $900/month) for seven COMMUNITIES hredeemer.org/. Dr. Lance Maki, lancemaki@gmail. months of service, receive an Benediction on Saturday, January Lay Carmelites, first • Blessed Trinity Parish, com. education award of about $3,000 19 at Noon. Special devotions will Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Building L, 5 S.E. 17th St., with successful completion of occur at Midnight, 3 a.m., 6 a.m., Annunciation Parish, 1020 Ocala, multiple groups; and the contract, health insurance 9 a.m., Noon, 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. Montgomery Road, Altamonte first Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. RETREATS/DAYS and child care subsidy if income throughout the 40 Hours. Springs. Lay Carmelite order of Compassionate Friends, Ocala eligible. Education and social OF REFLECTION Adam J. Brakel in concert: the Blessed Virgin Mary is an chapter, for bereaved families justice-related positions. Bilingual Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, 7:30 p.m., St. association of mainly laypersons who have experienced the death English/Spanish helpful, but San Pedro Center retreats: James Cathedral, 215 N. Orange who commit themselves “to of a child. Peggy McClaskey, 352- not essential. Service term runs Various dates, 2400 Dike Ave., Orlando. Features cathedral live in the following of Jesus 694-2978. January-July 2019. Requires Road, Winter Park. For more and diocese music director and Christ” according to the charism, • Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 35-40 hours a week. Accepting information or to register: concert organist in a rededication traditions and spirit of Carmelite 201 University Blvd., Daytona applications now. Laura Firtel, sanpedrocenter.org/retreats- concert of the expanded cathedral order. Terri West, terrilynnwest@ Beach, Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Pat Beeman, 386-788-7128. WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 FLORIDACatholic PALM BEACH DIOCESE Jesus Christ is born. Alleluia! s we celebrate that the Word became flesh A and made His dwelling among us, may our Diocesan family experience the grace of His presence among us during this holy season and throughout the New Year. A Blessed Christmas to all.

l celebrar que la Palabra se ha hecho carne y que ha an moman n-ap selebre fet pawol la ki tounen moun establecido su morada entre nosotros, oramos para e ki abite nan mitan nou, se pou fanmiy dyosez la Aque nuestra familia Diocesana sienta la gracia de su Nfe eksperyans gras prezans li pote nan mitan nou presencia entre nosotros durante este tiempo de Navidad y pandan sezon sent sa-a epi chak jou nan nouvel ane-a. durante todo el Año Nuevo. Bon fet Nowel tout moun! Una Navidad Bendecida para todos. Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 2 The music and art of Christmas

During the Christmas season humble scene of the manger where The Nativity we hear a great deal of music from Christ was born. This light moved is depicted popular Christmas songs to beauti- the Magi to travel to Bethlehem to in this 17th- ful Christmas hymns and moving adore the splendor of the newborn century classical pieces such as Handel’s King and to present beautiful gifts painting by Messiah. The sounds of Christ- to him. That scene is filled with the the three mas many times move us to happy light of Christ which should enlight- Le Nain FLORIDA memories as well as emotional re- en us at Christmas and every day of brothers, Catholic sponses, such as the tears our lives. Antoine, that sometimes accom- As difficult as it some- Louis and DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH pany hearing Silent Night. times may be to compre- Mathieu. (BRIDEMAN Music has the ability to Vol. 80, No. 4 hend, God’s favor rests IMAGES touch our hearts and souls upon us. God created us | CNS) 9995 North Military Trail and to bring us out of our- in his image and in his Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 selves and sometimes into likeness and bestowed 561-775-9500 • Fax 561-630-2698 the presence of God. A few upon us the dignity of his weeks ago, at the conclu- LIVING THE very life. God never turns PUBLISHER sion of November, Pope TRUTH IN against us even when we Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito Francis met with church LOVE turn against him. He in- choirs from around the John speaks of the light that shines DIRECTOR OF Bishop vites us into a relationship the true peace which Christ came to COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING world and reflected that Gerald with him which is the core in the darkness which cannot be give. and SOCIAL MEDIA music has the ability to of what our lives are all overcome by it. He speaks of the Jesus tells his disciples what he Jennifer Trefelner make a deep impression Barbarito about and the key to find- word, who was God, who lives for- also says to us. We have eyes, but [email protected] on moments in people’s ing joy in life. God’s favor ever and became flesh. As the word, many times do not see. We have 561-775-9529 lives which mark their existence. rests so much upon us that he be- the son of God, becomes flesh, John ears, but many times do not hear. He expressed that music witnesses came one of us, taking to himself tells us that we see his glory, the The beauty of God revealed at [email protected] “to the profoundness of the Word of all that we experience in life as he glory of the Father’s only Son, full Christmas is before us in his love God that touches the hearts of peo- was born as a helpless infant on of grace and truth. This is the glory each and every day. The music of • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, ple.” He reflected that sacred music Christmas. This is the wonder of of which the angels sang at Bethle- Christmas surrounds us each and or customerservice@theflorida points to the beauty of paradise. Christmas. hem. The music and art are present every day. The light of Christ shines catholic.org With music, the Christmas sea- God’s favor rests upon us as the in the Gospel of John just as they are before us every moment. It is only son is also filled with an abundant light illuminates not only the birth at the Christmas scenes in the Gos- the eye and ear of faith which can Notify us of address changes (temporary balance of visual beauty. The deco- of his Son but the birth of each and pels of Matthew and Luke. John also see that beauty and hear that music. or permanent) as soon as possible. Please rations of light, the beauty of Christ- every one of us. We possess a beau- reminds us that the word came to The truth is beauty, and this truth is change your address online at www. thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at mas cards and the carefully deco- ty which comes from God and can what was his own, but his own did before us in the manger as it is in the 1-888-275-9953. rated trees and packages all attest to only be understood in his light. Our not accept him. St. Luke reminds us Cross on Calvary. a wonder that is present during the world too often makes the mistake of this reality as Mary and Joseph Let us open our ears to the mu- • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at season. As we gaze upon this beau- of believing that progress in tech- have to leave their home and go to sic of Christmas so well expressed 407-373-0075 or ty, we are moved to gaze upon the nology is the way to understand the Bethlehem only to find no room for by the angels song, “Glory to God [email protected] beauty of God himself. Speaking to purpose of life. It is only the beauty lodging. However, this rejection of in the highest and peace to those • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at artists in February of this year, Pope of our dignity, as made in the image which the evangelists remind us on whom His favor rests.” May the 1-888-275-9953, or Francis expressed how art has the and likeness of God, that enables us refers more deeply to the ultimate music of Christmas enable us to [email protected] innate ability to reveal the beauty to understand the meaning of life. rejection of Christ as he will give his hear the loving words of our Lord State Offices:50 E. Robinson St., Suite of being loved by God. Visual works God became one of us and is with life upon the Cross. especially as expressed as a help- G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; of art, like music, have the ability us at all times in order that we might It is the birth of God as a child less baby in Bethlehem. Let us open Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- to evoke an emotional response in be filled with the light of life. This is and the crucifixion of Christ which our eyes to the beauty of Christmas free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 our hearts and, in the words of Pope the wonder of Christmas. are before us on Christmas as God’s so brilliantly seen in the light of the EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: Francis, move us beyond ourselves The scenes from the Gospels of favor resting upon us in a manner star of Bethlehem over the scene Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade into the very heart of God. Christmas reveal to us the music we will never fully comprehend. of the manger. That beauty is the Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez As we celebrate Christmas, we and art of the Christmas scene but Our lives have a purpose, dignity Word who became flesh and dwells Business Manager: Pat Spencer are indeed touched by the music of perhaps from different perspec- and a value because we are loved by among us and is with us at this very Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro paradise as God becomes one of us tives, all expressing the same real- God so much that He became one moment. May we know the joy of Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael in the flesh and lives in our hearts ity. The Gospels of St. Matthew and of us and died for us in order that Christmas every day as we open our Carlock Advertising Graphic Designer: and souls. The song of Christmas is St. Luke have the perspective of we might have life. It is only seeing eyes and ears to the Lord present in Michael Jimenez the song of the angels in Bethlehem, looking at the beauty of the scene this beauty and hearing this music so much music and art before us. Advertising Sales Associate: Valerie Casko “Glory to God in the highest and on from below and raising our minds which give us joy in life. Our world A Blessed Christmas to you and Advertising Sales Associate: Tim Shea earth peace to those on whom his and hearts to God. We see the fig- needs to hear this message, as we your families! May you always know favor rests.” Those words which ures of Mary and Joseph with the ourselves do as well, if we are to find the joy of the Word made flesh. n Have a comment/want more info/ filled the silent night of the first Christ child. We see the Angels and have a story suggestion? Leave your feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; Christmas are the song that we sing shepherds as well as the Magi mak- BISHOP BARBARITO’S SCHEDULE click reader feedback link in the top menu. at Christmas as we realize the true ing their visit. We see the star which meaning of God dwelling among us lights the darkness and we hear the Dec. 22 — 4 p.m., Simbang Gabi Christmas and the New Year. Send statewide news releases to and in us as he is born of the Virgin song of the angels proclaiming glo- Mass with the Filipino community, St. John Jan. 2-8 — U.S. Conference of Catho- [email protected] Mary at Bethlehem. They are the ry to God. Matthew and Luke look Fisher Church, West Palm Beach. lic Bishops’ retreat, Mundelein Seminary, songs we need to sing every day all from the human perspective. Dec. 24 — 4 p.m., Christmas vigil Illinois. Our staff meets for prayer each work day at 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ Mass, St. Francis of Assisi Church, Rivera Jan. 10 — 11 a.m., Taping of televised during the year. The Gospel of St. John views the thefloridacatholic.org As we celebrate Christmas, we birth of Christ, not from the earth, Beach; midnight, Mass, Cathedral of St. Mass, Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens. are equally touched by the brilliant but from heaven. It seems to look Palm Beach Gardens. All contents copyright © 2018, The Florida beauty of the heart of God as the star downward giving it the beauty of Dec. 24-Jan 1, 2019 — Pastoral Jan. 13 — 10 a.m., Confirmation, St. Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from of Bethlehem lights the darkness of music and art from God himself. Center will be closed in observance of Lucy Parish, Highland Beach. Catholic News Service. the first Christmas and reveals the Gazing from the divine perspective,

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At left, angels of Our Lady Queen Lady Queen of Apostles in Royal Palm join others for a parade on parish grounds in celebration of the parish's grand opening of the Christmas Village Dec. 7. An Advent wreath with the Holy Family is part of displays at Our Lady Queen of Apostles’ Christmas Village. (PHOTOS BY LINDA REEVES) Parish evangelism shines light on true meaning of the season

LINDA REEVES Parade participants strolled David, was also in on the concept. ing grew. name of helping the parish and pro- Florida Catholic correspondent through the parish grounds to the “The three of us came up with “I was a little nervous about do- claiming the message of the Christ entrance of the newly construct- the idea,” said Chris, who hoped ing it,” Lanctot confessed. “I love Child. ROYAL PALM BEACH | Amid ed Christmas Village with nearly the event would keep Jesus in the children and have four grandchil- Donna Martin heard about the the busy malls with shoppers and 75,000 twinkling lights and dozens center, as opposed to the secu- dren. I like to volunteer and get a lot village and festival from a friend the parties and other festivities, one of displays, Scripture messages, a lar Christmas and Santa Claus. of satisfaction from volunteering.” who is a parishioner of the parish. model parish here came together live nativity, decorated trees and “We started building it in May. We Beyond the Christmas Village, She drove from Tampa for the grand in the spirit of unity and giving to pots of red and yellow poinsettias. worked on it every weekend. The the parish set up an international opening. “I love it,” she said after spread the “true meaning” of the Father Rudnicki began a brief cer- idea was to show how we celebrate, food tent with a sampling of food walking through the village of lights season. emony thanking donors, volunteers and this is why we celebrate.” from various countries around the and displays. “It is truly amazing.” Now, its pastor and his flock are and parish staff, who helped make Mary Ann Duemig was a project world prepared. Our Lady Queen of Parishioner Ann Behard was one making the initiative a parish tradi- the Christmas project a reality. coordinator with her husband, Jim, the Apostle is proud of its culturally of the Council of Catholic Women tion, and efforts are already under- He then, took a pair of scissors in who is the parish’s business man- diverse community, which repre- members helping with events. She way for next year’s event — a Christ- hand and cut the red ribbon hung ager. The parish opened the event sent 40 different destinations ac- talked about how the parish project mas village with a festival. at the village entrance. Everyone to the community at large. cording to Father Rudnicki. Himself united everyone in the parish and “The idea is to teach about the clapped and cheered, then gathered “We wanted to keep Christ in a native of Poland, he offered his fa- nudged people to get involved. “It true meaning of Christmas, and at the village’s towering Christmas Christmas. This is not just a par- mous Polish sausage and pierogies, is all about giving and volunteer- we also want everyone to have tree with strings of lights and a big ish event,” she explained. “This is a dumpling stuffed with potatoes. ing,” she said. “It is a very special fun,” said Sharyn Garcia, Our Lady star. The tree was set aglow, and a community event. We wanted to The festival also featured games, project.” Queen of the Apostles administra- everyone began singing Christmas draw in people from the commu- entertainment, gift baskets, raffles The Christmas Village and Fes- tive assistant. carols. Miraculously, snow began to nity.” and a craft fair. Proceeds from the tival has now come to an end, and Our Lady Queen of the Apostles’ fall from the Florida sky. Burt Lanctot was excited about event are slated for the parish op- the displays are stored for next year. inaugural “Christmas Festival and “We brought in a snow machine,” his role in the parish project. He erations fund. Chris Laquerre said there are plans Village” opened Dec. 7 with a pa- said Chris Laquerre, one of the even grew his white hair a little lon- “I am so impressed,” said Father in the works to build more displays rade. Father Andy Rudnicki, pastor, scores of volunteers helping with ger and a long beard. He said he also Rudnicki when we talked to him on with Bible messages and characters and Father Brian Campbell, paro- the parish project, and also one of did some research for his important the grand opening day. “There are and add more lights. n chial vicar, both dressed in red led the three men who came up with part playing St. Nicholas, a bishop so many people involved.” the parade with parishioners, guest the project vision. born in 280 in Patara, Lycia, an area He said he was in delight and awe Our Lady Queen of the Apostles is and children. Some of the young- Laquerre is the son of Deacon that is part of present-day Turkey. about the scores of volunteers help- located at 100 Crestwood Blvd., sters wore angel costumes. Oth- Bob Laquerre, who serves the par- St. Nicholas was best known for his ing to make the event happen all in Royal Palm Beach. For informa- ers were dressed as shepherds and ish. Deacon Laquerre also spear- outreach to the poor and sick. After the spirit of giving time and talents tion, call 561-798-5661 or visit characters from the Bible. headed the village, and his son, his death, the legend of his gift-giv- at the busiest time of year all in the www.olqa.cc. Religious sisters thanked and told ‘we are all sisters together’

LINDA REEVES want to say a warm thank you. We affiliations in 28 parishes in the Rita Gilchrist, Florida Catholic correspondent are all sisters together.” diocese. of St. The day was a joyful one that in- The Diocesan Council of Catho- Anastasia LAKE WORTH | They sat at cluded several highlights and sev- lic Women with the theme “Em- Parish in tables decorated with Christmas eral recognitions and thank yous bracing the Grace, Strength and Fort Pierce, recognizes cookie centerpieces chatting and to the religious guests. Father Clem Compassion of Women” is a very ac- Dominican enjoying each other’s company as Hammerschmitt, pastor of St. Mat- tive group, and their yearly agenda Sister Yolanda sisters and in the spirit of commu- thew and spiritual advisor of the includes many wonderful educa- Pomante for nity. diocesan Council of Catholic Wom- tional, spiritual and organizational her 65 years of The diocesan Council of Catho- en, he spent most of his time in the programs and events. The group is ministry as a lic Women organized the annual kitchen cooking Christmas cookies dedicated to helping women grow religious sister “Take a Sister to Lunch” event Dec. and a meal of roast beef, mashed in faith and leadership and also fo- during the 1. Some 20 tables set at St. Matthew potatoes and mixed vegetables. cused on helping the Church and "Take a Sister Parish hall in Lantana were filled “This is so wonderful,” said Sister Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito. The to Lunch." with religious sisters of various Bernardone Rock of the Franciscan women raise funds throughout the (LINDA congregations serving here in the Sisters of the Eucharist, who serves year to support various diocesan REEVES | FC) Diocese of Palm Beach. at St. Vincent de Paul Regional initiatives including the seminar- “What a wonderful day to say Seminary in Boynton Beach. This ian program. money is slated for an emergency of the afternoon. “I think these la- thank you,” said Tammy Farr, pres- was her first time at the luncheon. During the Take a Sister to Lunch fund for any unexpected needs of dies are most generous. They are ident of the diocesan council and “I want to know more about these Event, a $1,000 presentation was the religious. flawless. They love the Church parishioner of Holy Spirit in Lan- women,” she said inquiring about made for the religious here in the di- Sister Dorothy Mary Mangan of and the spiritual life. They are role tana, who, along with fellow coun- the Council of Catholic Women ocese. Sister Dawson accepted the the Sisters of Charity was touched models. They are the pillars of the cil members served the lunch. “We more than 2,000 strong and with check on behalf of the diocese. The by the spirit of fellowship and love Church,” she said. n Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 4

From left, Norieta Kempe shows off items in the cheerful Christmas Shoppe of the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store in Jupiter. Donna Bryan, who serves as the store’s manager, holds an item in the upscale formal wear boutique. Jeff Blazak stands with a donated bike. (PHOTOS BY JACKIE HOLFELDER | FC) St. Vincent de Paul is a shopper’s paradise

JACKIE HOLFELDER ‘I love coming here. FYI Florida Catholic correspondent There are such nice The Society of St. Vincent de JUPITER | “If you wouldn’t people and you just feel Paul has a strong presence in the give it to a friend, don’t give it to Diocese of Palm Beach. There are us.” like you’re doing some 15 groups of volunteers in area That is the mantra offered by Catholic churches, called confer- good.’ ences, who verify that needs of local Donna Bryan, manager of the residents are genuine by conducting spacious St. Vincent de Paul Thrift — Norieta Kempe home visits. The society then pays Store. The Jupiter store holds an a third party to help the individual abundance of merchandise avail- get past a rough patch. What that able for sale, regardless of the reason I got involved,” she said. “It means is that payment is not made price point. Much of the success was the initiative for me coming to the person needing assistance, of the store, which is thriving after here.” but to the entity that can provide two-and-a-half years at its current Customers range from those what is lacking (for instance, to the location on Indiantown Road, is served by El Sol (Jupiter’s Neigh- landlord or utility company). The attributable to its goods, beauty borhood Resource Center) and organization helps people of all and cleanliness. Corn Maya (a social services agen- denominations. The 10 rooms that comprise the cy) to upper, middle class people The St. Vincent de Paul Thrift thrift store are set up boutique- who like to thrift. Everyone is Store is located at 250 W. style. Each one is dedicated to a treated with dignity by the friend- Indiantown Road, Jupiter in the specific theme: art and antiques, ly store personnel, including those Promenade Shoppes, just west of kids’ clothing, books, formal wear shopping on a budget. the A1A railroad tracks. To find out Staff member Paula DeBiase shows some of the beautiful jewelry and vintage jewelry, to name a All children’s clothes are about volunteering or donating, that’s available at St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop in Jupiter. few. Because there is so much to washed and fluffed, just like in call 561-401-9585. Visit www. maintain, it takes about 30 volun- any fine consignment store. svdp-palmbeach.org or St. Vincent teers, all of whom work part-time, The Society of St. Vincent de de Paul Thrift Store Jupiter on to keep things running. Along Paul, Palm Beach District Coun- Facebook. with Bryan, who is a fulltime staff cil, runs the thrift store, the only member, the store has five part- one in the Palm Beach County. Ev- time employees. ery cent of profit made at the thrift Volunteers run the gamut age store stays in Palm Beach County donated to such local charities, wise from students to active se- and is used to provide financial such as the Edna Runner Tuto- niors. One thing they all have in assistance to those who have been rial Center and St. Ann’s Hygiene common: friendliness. successfully vetted during a home Center, which provide services “This is more than a store,” Bry- visit. Bryan said the majority of directly to the homeless and to an said. “It’s kind of like ‘Cheers’. donations, which arrive every day, families in need. Everyone gets along beautifully in come from Palm Beach Gardens Since the thrift store is located kind of a symbiotic relationship.” and Jupiter-Tequesta. on a large piece of prime real es- Norieta Kempe said she loves “And these people are incred- tate on one of Palm Beach Coun- putting in her shift twice a week. ibly generous,” she added. ty’s best-travelled roads, Bryan is She moved to the area after the Local businesses also donate mindful of the overhead involved loss of her husband and joined as to the store. The day Florida in keeping the store viable and a way to keep busy. Catholic was visiting, Clarice profitable. 12702-1221 “I love coming here,” she said. Dowdle, owner of neighboring She welcomes re-sellers and “There are such nice people and Coton Frais dropped off some loves to make the business deals you just feel like you’re doing unused items. “I donate every- that help keep her inventory some good.” thing I can to this organization,” fresh, current and moving. She Paula DeBiase started as a vol- she said. “I love it.” works with vendors who use flea unteer and is now a staff member. Sometimes Bryan receives markets or sell on eBay, and wel- She agreed the people she meets donations that don’t fit the am- comes others to come to the shop are wonderful. biance and feel of the rest of the and talk with her about working “But the ministry was the main inventory. In that case, they are together. n 5 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 DSA: A gift to last beyond Christmas

JIM DAVIS ‘When they think of the Church, they think mainly Florida Catholic correspondent of their own pastors and parishes. They don’t think WEST PALM BEACH | What of things like educational tuition for seminarians, kind of Christmas gift can repair a house smashed by a hurricane? human resources, information technology. The DSA Or bring the Mass to thousands handles a lot of those needs behind the scenes, so of shut-ins? Or equip a woman to escape sexual slavery? Or prepare their pastors can be pastors.’ young couples for a lifetime together? And do much more, all at — David Walsh once? That answer is a donation to Center for the Office of the Bishop bone that moves the work of the the Diocesan Services Appeal of and the Chancery offices, and also diocese forward. We support par- the Diocese of Palm Beach. The for the offices of finance and infor- ishes to be the best they can be.” appeal undergirds just about ev- mation technology. Other offices Among the largest appeal ben- erything the local Church does, supported by the appeal include: eficiaries is Catholic Charities, the including details that parishioners • Vocations, including aid for St. humanitarian arm and pro-life don’t worry about. Vincent De Paul Regional Semi- ministries of the diocese. Catholic “When they think of the nary. Charities runs an array of 15 pro- Church, they think mainly of their • Education and faith formation, grams and ministries, from food own pastors and parishes,” said including schools, liturgies and re- to counseling to legal aid for im- David Walsh, associate develop- ligious education. migrants to prison ministries to a John Carroll High School teachers collaborate on professional ment director for the diocese. • Cultural ministries, which homeless family shelter. development. Funds from the Diocesan Services Appeal support “They don’t think of things like outreaches to Haitian and His- “We’re helping the most vulner- the Office of Catholic Schools and the Diocese education efforts. educational tuition for seminar- panic communities. able in the diocese,” said Frank (COURTESY) ians, human resources, informa- • Marriage and family life, “Frankie” Chevere, executive di- tion technology. which conducted marriage prepa- rector of Catholic Charities. Another growth area: the fight holds its own fundraisers, it de- “The DSA handles a lot of those ration for 482 couples last year. This year, the fastest-growing against human trafficking — not pends on DSA for 20 percent of the needs behind the scenes, so their • Communications, covering section is disaster recovery aid. only sexual slavery but forced la- $7.4 million it raised over the last pastors can be pastors.” social media and the biweekly Although Hurricane Irma ram- bor. The Catholic Charities pro- fiscal year ending in July. Chevere Goal for the annual appeal is Florida Catholic newspaper. The paged through Florida more than gram began in January 2017 with said 87 cents of every dollar re- $8,350,500 this year, a little more diocese also runs a TV Mass that a year ago, Catholic Charities is one staffer; it’s now up to three, ceived goes directly to aid. than the $8,116,500 of last year’s serves 5,400 people weekly who still helping to repair houses it Chevere said. “They are witnesses of the love goal. The campaign begins with may not be able to attend other- damaged. The organization is And they’re all needed. They of Christ,” Chevere said of do- letters to 90,000 households, often wise. even helping some victims from find themselves coordinating with nors. “Witnesses and participants. followed with boosts by priests Some of the area titles may Hurricane Maria, who left their 30 agencies in law enforcement. Without their contributions, the from their pulpits. sound like high-level bureaucracy, homes in Puerto Rico to seek aid Catholic Charities has already services we provide would not be What does that sum pay for? but Walsh stressed that they also in South Florida. become a leader in anti-human possible.” Walsh broke it into seven main benefit local churches. “We started this less than two trafficking services in Palm Beach One could say the same of all areas: “Their contribution helps all the years ago with about $300,000,” County. the works supported by gifts to the Support services at the Pastoral parishes,” he said. “It’s the back- Chevere said. “Now it’s $2 million.” Although Catholic Charities Diocesan Services Appeal. n The season to give to others never ends

STAFF REPORT Hurricane Michael in Florida’s Pan- This Thanksgiving Catholic handle, Catholic school students Charities of the Diocese of Palm WEST PALM BEACH | Young embraced the baby diaper and Beach needed turkeys for local people of the Diocese of Palm Beach wipe campaign to help those hit families. Two students from All continue to display acts of generos- the hardest by the storm. Hearing Saints Catholic School in Jupiter ity and selflessness as the faithful of the survivors’ immediate needs made it their mission to collect as lead up to celebrating the birth of got students such as Ella Pinsky, of much money as they could to help Christ. St. Ann School in West Palm Beach, defray the cost of the 140 turkeys. During October and November in donation-collecting mode. Ella Seventh graders Cameron Marvin and now into December, Catholic and other members of the student and Nicolas White raised nearly Charities of the Diocese of Palm council collected thousands of dol- $600 through e-mail campaigns Beach has seen first-hand how lars worth of baby items. Ella deliv- and a wildly successful lemonade young people have put faith into ered the donations to the Pastoral stand. action. Center in Palm Beach Gardens on “Jesus is working through the “We like to think that kindness Halloween. youth of our diocese and we pray has been ingrained in the students Students and faculty at Pope John that he will continue to do so as they who attend one of our many Catho- Paul II Academy in Boca Raton, un- grow into adults,” Tellier said. “We lic schools, but seeing it put into der the leadership of Michael Scar- hope that their giving spirits con- action is a true testament to the val- amuzzo, needed crews of people tinue to inspire others to do great ues they are taught,” said Courtney and several large vehicles to trans- things for those who are less fortu- Tellier, marketing and fundraising port all of the donations collected nate.” n manager for Catholic Charities. for Hurricane Michael victims. It “Help came in many forms from was their goal to help survivors start To learn more about Catholic schools and parishes throughout piecing their lives back together. Charities of the Diocese of Palm our Diocese. We are forever grate- “We are so grateful for the incred- Beach or to donate, call 561-630- The supplies collected by St. John Paul II Academy and other Diocese ful to all who participated and gave ible outpouring of support from our 2695 or email jhoffman@ccdpb. of Palm Beach entities were distributed to the victims of Hurricane generously.” Pope John Paul II Academy family,” org or visit www.catholiccharities Michael. (COURTESY) Following the devastation of Tellier said. dpb.org. Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 6 Special Olympic athletes, supporters celebrated, honored

KATHRYN SULLIVAN Special to the Florida Catholic

NORTH PALM BEACH | Late this fall, St. Paul of the Cross Parish in North Palm Beach hosted a luncheon to honor the Special Olym- pics and its athletes. Families whose members have special needs joined Knights of Columbus from across Florida to listen to four speakers who had won awards for athletics in the Special Olympics. The athletes, whose ages ranged from young people to adults, spoke about how they joined the community, what the community has done for them, and how they Special Olympic supporters and athletes stand with Knights of Columbus and community members following the inaugural Special Olympics would like to help others. luncheon held at St. Paul of the Cross Parish in North Palm Beach. (COURTESY) The Special Olympics started in the early 1960s as a back yard camp The Knights of Columbus have gural Special Olympics luncheon. concluded with a presentation from Next year’s luncheon is sched- for people with intellectual disabili- a special relationship with the Spe- It was an opportunity for families to Riche Fleming, Palm Beach County uled for Oct. 27, 2019, at St. Paul of ties by Eunice Shriver, a member of cial Olympics. They attend events meet each other, to hear about the director of the Special Olympics. the Cross. n the Kennedy family whose sister all across Florida to support ath- incredible work being done in our had intellectual disabilities. By the letes and teams. They also raise area by the Special Olympics, and late 1960s a national movement for money for the community across to honor our local Olympians. athletic games for people with intel- the country. The event started with a wel- Catholic Order of Foresters lectual disabilities began. The first This year, the diocesan Office come, followed by a Mass offered by Special Olympics games were held of Inclusion partnered with the Father Thomas Lafreniere, pastor of in Chicago at Soldier Field in 1968. Knights of Columbus for the inau- Saint Paul of the Cross. The event and our agents support Catholic Schools and Parishes by their Diocese launches new format for TV Mass dedicated commitment to sharing STAFF REPORT Christ’s message of truth, love and

PALM BEACH GARDENS | hope in the Catholic community. Viewers of the Diocese of Palm Beach’s weekly televised Mass soon will notice a dynamic, new format. The Diocese of Palm Beach hired 8th Avenue Studios, a local production company with more than 20 years of experience in videography, to film the Masses on site of diocesan parishes, rather than filming in Catholic Order of Foresters... a studio. Pastors of the parish will be given the opportunity to serve as A Catholic life insurance company celebrant and, at the end of Mass, a committed to supporting our Catholic few minutes will be allowed for the community through fraternal outreach in pastor to share announcements or A drone captured this photo of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary information about the host parish. in Boynton Beach. The 8th Avenue Studios will utilize drone footage spiritual, social and service projects and Parishes also will have the option of in the production of the televised Masses to begin in January helping members achieve financial security using their own lector. 2019. (COURTESY) Incorporated into the new format through quality life insurance and annuities. will be a more contemporary look it as an opportunity to start going TV MASS achieved through 8th Avenue Stu- again.” The Diocese of Palm Beach airs its tele- dio’s use of drones, which will film It is a chance for pastors and vised Catholic Mass for the homebound Serving God’s Children aerial footage of the churches to be churches to not only connect with Sundays, from 10:30-11 a.m. on CW34 Feeding God’s Children used at the opening and closing of viewers, but also with other church- WTVX. The channel can be found on the Impacting our Catholic community globally the televised Mass. High-resolution es around the diocese. following cable systems: cameras will give the Mass a more “By giving pastors the opportu- through our continued commitment to • Comcast: channels 4 and 435 HD supporting outreach efforts in your parish. cinematic quality, and allow view- nity to make announcements, they ers to witness beauty and vibrancy can get their voices heard,” Smith • AT&T/U-Verse, channels 4 and 1004 HD Thomas Flynn 561-309-7425 of all 54 parishes and missions in said. “By sharing information, [email protected] the diocese. churches within the diocese can • Direct TV and DISH Network, channel 4 Through these improvements better engage with parishioners • Hometown Cable Plus, channels 4 to the televised Mass, the diocese and with each other.” and 304 • Digital antennas, over-air-channel 34.1 hopes to better engage current Although the look of the televised CATHOLIC ORDER OF FORESTERS viewers and attract new viewers. Mass will change, its purpose will 355 SHUMAN BLVD., P.O. BOX 3012 “Younger viewers seem to con- stay firm: to bring the word of God Naperville, IL 60566-7012 nect with a more cinematic look,” to homebound and hospitalized the Diocese’s televised Mass. www.catholicforester.org said Bryan Smith, director of con- Catholics, who cherish the televised Cooley said she feels the new ini- 800-552-0145/TTY 800-617-4176 tent production and managing Mass. tiative will help the parishioners to A Catholic Fraternal Benefit Life partner of 8th Avenue Studios. “Per- “It means so much to them,” said feel more a part of the Mass when Insurance Society Since 1883 Bringing Catholic Values to LIFE! haps this will help to connect with Connie Cooley, who, along with they see their pastor and parish on young people who have stopped husband, Reuben, has volunteered television. 12696-1221 going to Mass. Maybe they will see for more than 33 years to coordinate “It’s a new beginning,” she said. n 7 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019

DIOCESAN EVENTS SOCIAL MEDIA 25TH ANNIVERSARY Airing of the Christmas The Diocese of Palm Beach is proud Palm Beach Youth Ministry (@DPBYouth); Televised Mass: Dec. 25, 5-6 a.m. to engage with its stakeholders on Catholic Young Adults of Palm Beach (@ on WPEC 12, 6-7 a.m. on WPTV 5, social media. Please follow us and CYAPB); Diocese of Palm Beach Family Life and 10-11 a.m. on CW 34. Bishop join the conversation on our various (DIocesePBFamilyLife); Catholic Charities Gerald M. Barbarito will be the Facebook pages. Diocese of Palm Palm Beach (@CatholicCharitiesPB); celebrant of the Mass that was Beach (@DiocesePB); Diocese of Palm Diócesis de Palm Beach-Pastoral produced from the Cathedral Beach Office of Catholic Schools (@ Hispana (@DiocesePBHispanicMinistry), of St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm DoPBCatholicSchools); Palm Beach and Father Albert Dello Russo (@ Beach Gardens. It will feature music and choir. 561-775-9561, Vocations (@PBVocations); Diocese of ChancellorPalmBeach). [email protected]. Workshops for extraordinary find the peace, freedom and ministers of holy Communion: abundant life that Christ has for TV MASS For both new and experienced you. Sponsored by Diocese of Palm The Diocese Televised Mass airs ministers at various locations. Beach Office of Marriage & Family Call your parish office to make every Sunday 10:30-11 a.m. on CW34 Life. Cost*: By Jan. 5: $55; By Jan. WTVX. For more information, please reservations with the diocesan 17: $65; At the door: $75. *Includes Father Tomasz Makowski, pastor of Mary Immaculate Parish in West Liturgy Office. Sessions in English copy of Unbound by Neal Lozano visit www.diocesepb.org/tv-Mass. To Palm Beach, celebrates Mass with Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito Dec. 16, and Spanish. & Continental Breakfast/Box Lunch/ support the televised Mass or to request in honor of the pastor’s 25th priestly anniversary. Bishop Barbarito Monthly Mind Mass to Dinner. www.eventbrite.com/e/ a free Mass missal, please call 561-775- gave thanks for Father Makowski’s service and told the faithful remember departed souls: unbound-freedom-in-christ-retreat- 9561 or mail a request to the Office of “priests remember how blessed they are because of people like you.” Second Saturdays, 10 a.m., Our tickets-52639915404, 561-775-9524, Communications, 9995 N. Military Trail, Father Makowski, a native of Poland, shared the difficult journey he Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, [email protected]. P.O. Box 109650, Palm Beach Gardens, experienced when he left Poland in 1990. “While leaving my parents 10941 Southern Blvd., Royal Palm Annual Anniversary Masses FL 33410. behind, it wasn’t easy and my mother cried but they understood Beach. 561-793-0711, Mlexima@ celebrating marriage: Feb. 9, ourqueen.org. The Christmas Mass will air Dec. home is where you want to be, and where you make it,” the priest 2019, 10 a.m., St. Lucie Parish, 25 5-6 a.m. on WPEC 12, 6-7 a.m. on said, adding his thanks to Bishop Barbarito for allowing him to serve School of Christian 280 S.W. Prima Vista Blvd., Port Formation designed for adult St. Lucie; and Feb. 16, 2019, 10:30 WPTV 5, and 10-11 a.m. on CW 34. a parish of “great people.” “While I know I have failed you at times, Catholics who want to better a.m., St. Jude Parish, 21689 Toledo I thank you for your support and for yelling at me and showing me know the Catholic faith and Road, Boca Raton. Main celebrant: where my place is. ... Thank you for taking care of me.” Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, share it with others through Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito. Palm Beach Gardens. Prayer and ministry. English and Spanish Couples celebrating 25, 40, 50 or adoration for those suffering after classes. Cost: $10. Schedules: more years of marriage in 2019 are Country Club, 1648 S.E. Sailfish 12th St., Fort Pierce. Treasure Coast abortion and miscarriage. www.diocesepb.org/school-of- welcome to join in the celebration. Point Blvd., Hutchinson Island. rosary group leads rosary recitation christian-formation. 561-775-9544, Reception follows. Please visit a • Respite services to St. Lucie Cocktails, entertainment by for the end of abortion. 772-465- [email protected]. parish office to register. Organized County caregivers: Short-term or St. Joseph School’s jazz band, 8298. Permanent deacon by the diocesan Office of Marriage temporary care of a few hours a followed by dinner and dancing. Pray the rosary for life: applications available: Men and Family Life. 561-775-9524, week. 561-360-3321. Proceeds benefit educational and Saturdays, 9-10 a.m., sidewalks just interested in applying to become a [email protected]. • Match grant program: Services outreach ministries. Cocktail attire. north of the Wellington Regional permanent deacon of the Diocese Catholic Charities events available for qualifying individuals Tickets: $200 per person. angelat@ Medical Center, 10101 Forest Hill legally admitted into the United sjcflorida.org or 772-287-2727. of Palm Beach are asked to speak • Roe v. Wade Prayer to End Blvd., Wellington. All invited to States under specific statuses. to their pastors for permission Abortion: Jan. 22, 2019, 11 a.m., Sanctity of Life Sunday: Jan. pray for the end of abortions. 561- Program is designed to facilitate to apply, and download the Old Courthouse, Corner of 3rd and 20, 2019, Route 60 in Vero Beach. 784-0689. client’s self-sufficiency through application from the diocesan North Dixie, West Palm Beach. This Save the date for the thirteenth employment. Refugees, asylees, website, www.diocesepb.org/ event falls on the anniversary of annual, “Stand for Life”, life-chain. Cuban and Haitian entrants, and deacon-formation. 561-775-9540, Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court Details to follow. Sponsored by the RETREATS/DAYS victims of trafficking can call for [email protected]. Case that legalized abortion. Respect Life Ministry of St. Helen information and appointments. Workshops for Mass lectors: All are invited to come and join Church in Vero Beach. maf595@ OF PRAYER 561-345-2000. bellsouth.net or 772-567-7679. Please contact a parish pastor or in prayer near the courthouse Our Lady of Florida Spiritual • Rosary gathering: First Catholic Grandparents parish ministry coordinator for grounds to provide witness Center: Retreats and programs Saturdays, 9 a.m., near Presidential Association chapters meetings: reservations. Names of parish and promote the prolife cause available for clergy, religious, men, Women’s Center in West Palm Monthly gatherings are held at participants are required two days with Most Reverend Gerald M. women, married couples, singles Beach, 100 Northpoint Parkway, various parishes. All grandparents before workshop date. Barbarito, Bishop of Palm Beach. and people in recovery programs. West Palm Beach. Led by Respect are welcome to join and discuss Unbound healing prayer: First 561-775-9567, [email protected]. Season theme: “Your Call to Life Office. 561-360-3330. grandparenting issues and and Third Mondays by confidential • Annual Caritas Dei Bishop’s Holiness.” Reservations required share tips and tactics for passing appointment. Diocese of Palm Gala: Jan. 23, 2019, 7 p.m., The except when stated. Location: along the faith to the younger Beach Office of Marriage and Breakers, 1 S. County Road, Palm 1300 U.S. Highway 1, North Palm generations. Kit Johansen, 561-626- Family Life. Proven prayer model Beach. Hosts: Carol and Harold COMMUNITY Beach. 561-626-1300 or www. 8027, [email protected] or Pat Piccoli, designed to help those who try Baxter, honorary chairs; Karmita EVENTS ourladyofflorida.org. but struggle with the same sins and Charlie Gusmano, and Lauren 561-339-8439, nonnapat52@gmail. com. (No August meetings.) • New Year’s Eve reflection time and again and feel hopeless and Charlie Lomangino, chairmen. Pro-life Laps4 Life: Jan. 12, and celebration: Dec. 31, 6 p.m. Stations of the Cross for in search for freedom. Unbound Cocktail hour and silent auction 2019, Cardinal Newman High registration followed by 7 p.m. priests: Fourth Saturday of the ministry helps in the discovery of followed by dinner, dancing and School, 512 Spencer Drive, West dinner. Led by retreat team month, following 8:30 a.m. Mass, freedom from sin. 561-775-9524, an interactive and fun live auction. Palm Beach. Proceeds go towards with presentation by Passionist Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, [email protected]. Tickets: $500 per person, $350 an ultrasound machine for a local Brother Edward Hall. Sacrament of 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Protection of Children and juniors (40 years and younger). pregnancy care center. Sponsored reconciliation, Mass and midnight Gardens. 561-371-1658. Young People: The Diocese Sponsorship packages available. by the Knights of Columbus Our party. Cost: $90 for overnight; of Palm Beach is committed to 561-775-9567, [email protected]. Lady Queen of the Apostles Council Monthly Holy Hour of prayer $70 for evening only. Registration the safety and protection of all • 9th Annual Birthline/Lifeline 12376. 561-793-3751, jlcalas@ and adoration: Last Thursday required. children and vulnerable adults Dinner Dance: Feb. 23, 2019. bellsouth.net. of the month, 7 p.m., Cathedral in its care. Victims of abuse by Catholic Charities Birthline/Lifeline Open House: Jan. 18, 2019, of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Church personnel are encouraged Pregnancy Care Centers will 8:30-10 a.m., All Saints School, Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. ANNOUNCEMENTS to contact the Diocesan Victim celebrate the gift of human life at 1759 Indian Creek Parkway, Jupiter. Sacrament of reconciliation Assistance Coordinator, Lorraine this Gala. This special evening will Please join us as we showcase our available. Evening of simple praise Catholic Days at the Capitol: Sabatella, at 561-801-0999. Office include an award presentation, academics, technology, fine arts, and worship of Jesus present in the Mar. 26-28, 2019, Tallahasse. of Safe Environments provides cocktails, dinner & dancing and a athletics, clubs and facilities for Eucharist. Social follows. 561-622- Florida Catholics are invited to safety resources, guidance Call to the Heart benefitting the Pre-K4-8th Grade. 561-748-8994 or 2565 meet state legislators to promote and education and training to pregnancy care centers. 561-732- www.allsaintsjupiter.org. Widow, widowers support legislation that supports teachings employees, all Church personnel 0570. Voices of Legends Concert program: Second and fourth of the Church. Deadline: Feb. 8. and volunteers. For information on • Catholic Charities Respect Series: Jan. 18, 2019, 6 p.m. and Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-noon, [email protected], reporting abuse, safety education Life Ministry seeks volunteers to 8:30 p.m., St. Paul of the Cross Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, 561-260-9969 or dherbst@ccdpb. programs and resources, and to take on roles as respect life parish Church, 10970 State Road A1A, 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach org, 561-360-3330. view the USCCB Charter for the representatives, who are essential North Palm Beach. Broadway Pop Gardens. Led by Gloria Stevenson, Singers needed for Schola Protection of Children and Young to help build culture of life and and the American Songbook. The former Catholic Charities counselor Cantorum, St. Luke Parish, 2892 People: www.diocesepb.org and spread pro-life message. If you are Rhythm Chicks, the Reunion band, and social worker. Designed for S. Congress Ave., Palm Springs. click on Offices/Safe Environments passionate about saving unborn Atillo Marinelli and Johnny T. those coping with life without People interested in traditional or www.diocesepb.org/safe- babies and other pro-life work and Proceeds benefit the parish. Cost: their spouse. Fellowship and choral music, Gregorian chant environments. are interested in filling this role $35. www.johnnytlive.com, www. conversation. 561-622-6420, and Renaissance polyphony are Unbound Freedom in Christ within your parish, contact Deanna paulcross.org, JTMYSTICS2@GMAIL. [email protected]. invited to audition. Contact Kevin Retreat: Jan. 19, 8 a.m.-8p.m., Herbst, 561-360-3330, dherbst@ COM or 239-293-6602. Prayer gathering: Fridays, Faulkner, music director: kevin. St. Jude, 204 N. U.S. Highway 1, ccdpb.org. “A Night in Havana”: Jan. 5 p.m., on the sidewalks near A [email protected]. Tequesta. Join us for this Unbound • Holy Hour: First Fridays, 10:30 20, 2019, 5 p.m., Sailfish Point Woman’s World Medical Center Freedom in Christ retreat and a.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius that offers abortion services, 503 S. Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 8 Anniversary School and parish celebrate groundbreaking

Masses set JOHN CLARKE Children Special to the Florida Catholic of St. Jude School sing for February several songs As part of its “Il- BOCA RATON | for guests at LINDA REEVES luminating Our Future” campaign, Florida Catholic correspondent the ground- St. Jude Parish and School in Boca breaking Raton broke ground Dec. 7, for its of the PORT ST. LUCIE | The Dio- new education center, gymnato- Frank and cese of Palm Beach is prepar- rium, and administrative building. Vera Ferola ing to celebrate the sacrament The project, named The Frank education of marriage and pay tribute to and Vera Ferola Education Center and gymna- couples for their witness of love, and Gymnatorium, includes a new torium. commitment and example of school entrance, administrative (COURTESY) Christian marriage. offices, four prekindergarten class- “It is such a blessing for me rooms and a multi-purpose gymna- “Jesus told his disciples to go and ing ceremony, talked about the im- Deborah Armstrong, school prin- to participate in this happy cel- torium. make disciples of all nations. It is portance of a Catholic education cipal, in praying for its successful ebration, and I am very inspired The gymnatorium will be used what motivates all we do here at St. for all students. “My late husband completion. Armstrong said the by the cumulative experience for indoor sports and physical edu- Jude and defines who we are,” said Frank and I have always valued the parish and school continue to work and wisdom of all of the couples cation classes, and performances, Carmelite Father John Horan, pas- tradition and mission of Catholic to make the center a reality and who attend (the Anniversary activities, plays, and other special tor of St. Jude schools,” she said. “I am committed added the school is reaching out to Mass),” said Cathy Loh, direc- events in the arts, drama and mu- Father Horan and Jay Brandt, to doing everything I can to ensure alumni, families, parents and mem- tor of the diocesan Office of sic. The education center, which parish development director, began that St. Jude parish and school have bers of the parish family for finan- Marriage and Family Life. She includes classrooms for pre-K3 and the “Illuminating Our Future” cam- top-notch facilities to offer a Catho- cial support. helped organize this year’s 35th pre-K4 located close to the main of- paign with a $4 million goal. lic education of the mind, body, and “With the support of the entire St. annual Anniversary Mass for fice. A separate outdoor play area Vera Ferola, who joined other spirit of each of our students.” Jude family, our saints will continue married couples, who are cel- will be constructed for the prekin- benefactors and members of the Bishop Gerald Barbarito blessed to grow on solid and holy ground,” ebrating 25, 40, 50 or more years dergarten students. St. Jude family at the groundbreak- the groundbreaking, as he joined she said. n of marriage in 2019. Two separate events are planned at two different loca- NEWSbriefs tions this year. One is in the northern diocese, and the other 70 Rosarian age. This experience will include Student helps is in the south end of the Dio- five performances at churches cese of Palm Beach to better ac- students qualify throughout Rome and in Assisi, cul- children in commodate couples celebrating minating in the Epiphany Mass Jan. marriage milestones. St. Lucie as TIP Scholars 6. “This is an amazing opportunity hospital Parish in Port St. Lucie will host Rosarian Academy announced for our youth choir,” said Father Logan Taylor a student in the the first celebration Feb. 9, at 46 percent of its fourth- through Nestor Rodriguez, pastor of St. Ann IB program of St. Ann Catholic 10:30 a.m. at beautiful St. Lucie seventh-graders were recognized who will also travel to Rome. “The School in West Palm Beach, col- Church. St. Jude Parish in Boca as Duke University Talent Identifi- children will have the opportunity lected DVDs for children under- Raton is host for a Feb. 16 event cation Program Scholars. These 70 to explore and grow in their faith going surgery and long stays at St. planned to begin at 10:30 a.m. students scored in the top 5 percent while sharing their gift.” Mary’s Medical Center. After doing Typically, at least 300 couples on their grade-level standardized Since March the choir has trav- research for a religion class project, in total attend the two Masses test. The school program’s tal- eled to more than six parishes Logan discovered how watching each year. Bishop Gerald M. ent identification, academic, and throughout the Diocese of Palm movies eased children’s stress in Barbarito is main celebrant. research programs now serve as Beach singing at masses and pro- the hospital setting. The celebrations are known for worldwide models for the education viding special performances to Logan had experienced first- their special music and for the of gifted students. Seventh grade raise the money necessary to make hand with surgery as a patient at St. renewal of wedding vows ritual students participate in the scholar this trip possible. With support Mary’s Medical Center, and wanted that adds a lovely touch to the program by taking either the SAT from other parishes and donors to help other children undergoing day. Bishop Barbarito also rec- or ACT college entrance examina- throughout Palm Beach County procedures and/or prolong illness- Logan Taylor stands with Michelle ognizes the couples on hand tions, the same tests taken by high and beyond, the choir raised more es. In a short period of time, Logan Armand, child life specialist for celebrating the greatest number school juniors and seniors prepar- than $125,000 to fully fund the along with the help of his teachers St. Mary’s Medical Center. He of years married. Certificates ing for college admission. Fourth children who are participating. “I and fellow students, collected 20 donated DVDs for young people are given out at one point, and a through sixth grade students take am so proud of how hard they have new and unused DVDs to help with who are patients at the medical reception with coffee and cake the PSAT 8/9 as an above-level test. worked to make this possible,” this endeavor. center (COURTESY) follows the Mass. In addition to building their testing Hogan said. “And we are so grate- “They are living proof that skills, students also have the op- ful to all those who recognized the it is indeed possible to joyfully portunity to learn and/or possibly beauty of their voices and gener- live out the marriage vows that participate in other programs for ously supported this opportunity they promised each other all academically talented students. for them.” those years ago on their wedding day,” said Loh about the Choir to sing for Parish helps dedicated married couples at the center of all the merri- pope in Rome hurricane victims ment. The couples were called The St. Ann Parish Youth Choir On Nov. 16, Father Tri Pham, to the vocation of marriage is spending December preparing to pastor at Holy Family Parish, along William E. Boyes many years ago and have made sing for Pope Francis in St. Peter’s with parishioners and commu- John Farina it through thick and thin and Basilica when the pontiff celebrates nity members, helped fill a 15-foot all the twists and turns of life the Epiphany Mass Jan. 6, in Rome. rental truck with donated supplies Peter Matwiczyk while remaining devoted to The 28 children have two more per- to support those affected by Hur- one another and their wedding formances at their parish and will ricane Michael. Two parish volun- • Wills, trusts and guardianship litigation day promise. spend hours rehearsing in prepa- teers along with Father Pham trans- • Estate and trust planning and administration Pre-registration for the Anni- ration under the direction of their ported the supplies to Sts. Peter and versary Masses begins in Janu- choir director Christopher Hogan. Paul Parish in Panama City. This [email protected] ary. For those interested in join- The children will sing at Masses at parish’s roof was torn off and now 3300 PGA Blvd., Suite 600 ing the celebration, check with St. Ann Dec. 24 at 4:30 p.m. the church suffers from mold, forc- Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 [email protected] a parish office for information The choir will leave for Rome ing the congregation to meet in the 561-694-7979 [email protected] and registration. n Dec. 29, to begin a 10-day pilgrim- parish hall. 11202-1221 WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 FLORIDACatholic VENICE DIOCESE MERRY CHRISTMAS!

round the world Christians today celebrate the birth of Christ, our Messiah. This newborn is the Child Jesus – born in a humble manger and sent by God as His gift to us. Christ is the gift of hope, joy and love that comes to the world through our knowing and following Him. Just as Mary and Joseph had to flee to save their young baby, many of our Abrothers and sisters today continue to experience fear, violence and displacement in and outside their native countries. This is particularly true in the Holy Land where Jesus lived and walked. Let the newborn Christ child be the light of hope for us and for all who suffer religious persecution around the world. May the grace and peace of Our Savior be with you and your family this Christmas Season. Have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year! +Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 2

Father Eduaro Coll greets everyone Dec. 12 at the start of a Mass before dawn for the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Leo the Children dance outside of Sacred Heart Parish in Bradenton Dec. 9, as part of the feast of Our Lady of Great Parish in Bonita Springs. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) Guadalupe celebration. Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrated across Diocese BOB REDDY of the Florida Catholic staff

VENICE | Tradition, reverence, and lots of music marked the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe throughout the Diocese of Venice and the world Dec. 12. The Patroness of the Americas and the Unborn is one of the most revered in the world. Parishes throughout the Dio- cese of Venice celebrated the feast with Mass, Eucharistic adoration, festivals and other events. The day marks the culmination of events when the Virgin Mary appeared to Indian peasant, St. Juan Diego, in Students from St. Catherine Catholic School place roses at a temporary The main St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish Feast Our Lady of Guadalupe December 1531, near the present- shrine to Our Lady of Guadlaupe Dec. 12 prior to a feast day Mass. celebration took place Dec. 8 in Port Charlotte. day Mexico City. “The Virgin Mary is there for us ing traditional songs to Our Lady. floor and the tilma was imprinted every day,” said Juanita Carrera of At the end of the Mass, the Bishop with a brilliant image of a color, Sacred Heart Parish in Bradenton. blessed a newly installed image of life-sized, dark-skinned Blessed “It is important to celebrate Our Our Lady of Guadalupe at the rear Virgin Mary. Awed by this miracle, Lady and honor Her for helping to of the Church. the Bishop immediately ordered a bring Jesus into our lives.” Diocesan Catholic Schools also church be built on Tepeyac Hill. At The feast is not only celebrated joined in the celebration of Our the time of Our Lady’s appearance, on Dec. 12 but is often extended Lady of Guadalupe. At St. Catherine Indians endured a brutal life under over several days. At St. Maximil- Catholic School in Sebring the stu- the control of the Spanish. The im- ian Kolbe Parish in Port Charlotte, dents participated in a Mass. Before age on the tilma was full of symbol- the faithful had an early start on the Mass began, students dressed ism which could be understood by the celebration Dec. 8 with a Mass in traditional garb brought roses indigenous Mexicans and gave rise and fiesta. Pastor Father Teofilo forward to be placed before a tem- to the evangelization of Mexico, Useche said Our Lady of Guada- porary shrine to Our Lady. After leading millions to converted to lupe is a story of love, the Blessed the Mass, a recital took place with Catholicism. Virgin Mary’s love for all of us in dancing and singing. With more than 20 million peo- Father Jose Gonzalez, Pastor of St. Catherine Parish in Sebring, aiding us to grow closer to her son, The story of Our Lady of Guada- ple visiting, the current Basilica of speaks Dec. 12 about Our Lady of Guadalupe to the students at St. Jesus Christ. lupe dates to 1531. The Blessed Vir- Our Lady of Guadalupe is the most Catherine Catholic School. “It is also important we realize, as gin Mary appeared to St. Juan Di- visited religious shrine in the West- with other appearance of Our Lady, ego, an indigenous peasant farmer ern Hemisphere and in the top five that she comes to someone who is in Tepeyac, Mexico. Our Lady ap- worldwide of all religious shrines. poor and simple, someone who is peared with dark, Indian-like skin The tilma worn by St. Juan Diego, not clouded by bias and is equipped and spoke to him in his own Aztec bearing the original image of Our to carry the message to others,” Fa- language. Our Lady sent him to the Lady, remains on display to this day. ther Useche said. “Our Lady of Gua- local Bishop to ask that a church Juan Diego was beatified by St. Pope dalupe is a beautiful apparition that be built on Tepeyac Hill so as to be John Paul II in 2002. is extra special.” closer to Her people. Modern-day Mexicans continue Bishop Frank J. Dewane cele- After rejecting Juan Diego sev- to embrace Our Lady of Guadalupe brated a bilingual Mass at Epipha- eral times, the Bishop asked him for because Mary appeared to a simple ny Cathedral in Venice Dec. 12. The proof of the vision. Our Lady asked peasant and is esteemed as the Mass was preceded by a procession St. Juan Diego to return with out-of- champion of the poor and down- around the Cathedral led by the season roses, from a rosebush that trodden. Many devotees pray to the Knights of Columbus, a mariachi miraculously appeared, wrapped in Blessed Virgin to ask for help during band and a statue of Our Lady of his tilma, or cape. When presented difficult times and to give thanks. In A mariachi band leads a Dec. 12 procession with Bishop Frank J. Guadalupe. Bishop and the faithful before the Bishop, the cape was Mexico, the feast day is a national Dewane on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at Epiphany Cathedral followed the procession while sing- opened with the roses falling to the holiday. n in Venice. 3 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Bishop leads Rosary on Immaculate Conception

BOB REDDY Bishop Frank of the Florida Catholic staff J. Dewane leads the FORT MYERS | For the solem- praying of the rosary for nity of the Immaculate Concep- life in Fort tion of the Blessed Virgin Mary Myers Dec. 8, several pro-life activities took the solemnity place. of the Bishop Frank J. Dewane led the Immaculate praying of the rosary at a prayer Conception vigil in Fort Myers and that day of the Blessed many Parishes held National Virgin Mary. Night of Prayer for Life observanc- (PHOTOS es. Bishop Dewane led everyone BY BOB in the reciting of the rosary, with REDDY | FC) Ashley La Mar providing the de- scriptions of each Joyful Mystery. Following the rosary, the Bishop thanked everyone for participat- while seeking to create a culture of FYI ing in the prayer vigil. life. The solemnity pertains to the “We are called to take time in conception of the Virgin Mary in To commemorate the 46th anniver- the Advent season to prepare our- the womb of her mother, St. Anne, sary of Roe v. Wade, which paved selves for Christmas and the com- wherein Mary was preserved ex- the way for legalized abortion in ing of Our Lord,” Bishop Dewane empt from all stain of original sin the United States, a Mass will be said. “You have certainly given a by God’s grace in view of the mer- celebrated at 8:30 a.m., Jan. 22, at demonstration of that today. Keep its of Jesus Christ. St. Martha Parish, 200 N. Orange up the good work. God bless you.” The annual National Night Ave., for a greater respect for life. More than 150 people partici- of Prayer for Life also took place The Mass will be followed by a peaceful Prayer Walk for Life at pated in a prayerful procession on the solemnity, Dec. 8. At sev- the nearby Planned Parenthood and prayed the rosary in front of eral parishes within the Diocese At left, Deacon Richard Frohmiller abortion facility at 736 Central Ave. the Planned Parenthood abortion of Venice, the faithful joined in leads a National Night of Prayer For more information about respect center in Fort Myers, found at the prayer with Catholics throughout for Life Vigil at San Pedro Parish, life activities within the Diocese of intersection of College Parkway the country in an effort to bring North Port. Above, Elizabeth Venice, contact Jeanne Berdeaux and Winkler Road. the world back to Christ and to Jones, a member of the youth at 941-441-1101 or berdeaux@ Students from Bishop Verot bring about an end to abortion so group, leads a prayer vigil at St. dioceseofvenice.org Catholic High School in Fort Myers as to restore life, liberty, faith and Raphael Parish in Lehigh Acres. carried a statue of the Blessed Vir- peace. gin Mary for the procession from a San Pedro Parish in North Port, the Americas and the unborn, first these sins and for the healing of and religious liberty in America. nearby parking lot to the shopping St. Agnes Parish in Naples, and appeared to St. Juan Diego and those who are suffering. Other Parishes held prayer ser- plaza where the abortion facility is San Marco Parish in Marco Island shared her message of life. The prayer vigil was designed vices throughout Dec. 8, typically located. Members of the Knights participated in the entire vigil. The Prayer services typically con- to unite the two days which pro- following the Mass for the Solem- of Columbus Color Corps escorted evening spanned the solemnity sisted of Adoration of the Blessed nounce this important message nity of the Immaculate Concep- the students and the statue. of the Immaculate Conception Sacrament, recitation of the rosary of life from Our Lady. The Hour tion. At St. Raphael Parish in Le- Paul Muri, who helped orga- Dec. 8 beginning at 9 p.m., and and other vocal prayers, interces- of Unity was at midnight in Flor- high Acres, Pastor Father Dennis nize the procession and prayer continued into the anniversary sions, silent meditation and Bene- ida. The overriding intent of the Cooney stressed the importance vigil, said it is important to gather of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s first diction. Prayers were offered to evening was to have the faithful to continue to pray for a culture of in honor of Our Lady on the so- apparition to St. Juan Diego at 1 end abortion and all offenses across the United States be joined life. Members of the Youth Group lemnity of the Immaculate Con- a.m. Dec. 9. It was in 1531, that Our against the dignity of the human in prayer to end abortion as well led the praying of the rosary and ception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of person, to make reparation for as to restore God’s blessings of life Chaplet of Divine Mercy. n Guadalupe Social Services holds open house

STAFF REPORT With the aid of many supporters are to ensure human dignity and offering time, talent and treasure, enhance the quality of life for all IMMOKALEE | As part of the Guadalupe Social Services is able individuals served. Guadalupe year-long celebration of Catho- to provide assistance to people in Social Services focuses on offer- lic Charities Diocese of Venice need in Immokalee. ing the basic needs of food, shelter, Inc. providing services in Collier Immokalee has long been a clothing and household items, in County for 50 years, Guadalupe region of poor migrant workers. addition to stability and education. Social Services of Catholic Chari- There is an extreme culture of pov- The program offers a number ties in Immokalee held an open erty that exists in Immokalee as of vital services including: free house Dec. 8, for supporters of the 44.8 percent of the population live hot lunches five days a week at program. below the poverty line. Over the the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen; a Attendees enjoyed food and fel- years, more families have chosen clothing room and showers; a food The staff of Guadalupe Social Services of Catholic Charities during a lowship along with a video presen- to make Immokalee their perma- pantry; direct assistance with rent Dec. 8 Open House in Immokalee. (COURTESY) tation and informative tours of the nent home and work in low-in- and utilities; immigration servic- services available at Guadalupe come jobs including: landscaping, es; English as a second language the food pantry, soup kitchen, and Christmas food distributions. Social Services, which has been in hospitality, restaurants, farms and classes; and a crib and stroller pro- help in the office. For more information about operation for 38 years. During 2018, packing houses. . gram. Still, they do so much more. To directly support the pro- volunteer opportunities and do- Catholic Charities has been proud Guadalupe Social Services aims Volunteers are the backbone gram, nonperishable food, cloth- nations, call 239-657-6242, visit to mark 50 years of changing lives to alleviate the suffering in Im- of Guadalupe Social Services and ing and household goods are www.catholiccharitiesdov.org in Collier County. Hospitality for mokalee with compassion, integ- allow the program the ability to always needed at Guadalupe So- or send donations to Guadalupe the open house was graciously pro- rity, and empathy. By empower- provide these vital services to the cial Services. Seasonal donations Social Services of Catholic Chari- vided by The Warehouse and the ing the people through assistance needy in the community. Addi- are necessary for back-to-school ties, 211 S. 9th St., Immokalee, FL Seminole Hotel Casino Immokalee. provided to them, the main goals tional volunteers are needed for items, and Thanksgiving and 34142. n Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 4 Renewed Theology on Tap begins in Sarasota

BOB REDDY drew about 20 people, and served FYI of the Florida Catholic staff to gauge interest in the concept as well as to help build momentum for While the Sarasota area Theology SARASOTA | Theology on Tap having future monthly gatherings Tap is just returning, the Naples offers an innovative solution to one with different topics and speakers. area gatherings are going strong. of today’s most pressing pastoral “It can often be difficult for The site of the gatherings rotates concerns: how to reach out to young young adults to stay connected each Tuesday at different parishes. Catholic adults. to the faith,” Mazrin added. “As a Gatherings are held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. First Tuesdays at With successful ongoing efforts young Catholic, it can be easy to feel St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 in Naples, Fort Myers and Lehigh left out of the Parish because few ac- 111th Ave. N.; second Tuesdays Acres, Joshua Mazrin, Diocese Di- tivities even hold their interest. Sad- at St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt rector of Evangelization, decided to ly, young adults can sometimes be Beach Road; third Tuesdays at try to reintroduce the Theology on overlooked to the extent that even St. Peter the Apostle Parish, 5130 Tap concept in the Northern Dean- their absence goes unnoticed.” Father Shawn Roser, of St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton, blesses the Rattlesnake Hammock Road; and ery. Two priests were present for the Dec. 6 Theology on Tap at the Mandeville Beer Garden in downtown fourth Tuesdays at St. William The first gathering was Dec. 6, Sarasota gathering. Father Eric Sarasota. (COURTESY) Parish, 601 Seagate Drive. Call at the Mandeville Beer Garden Scanlan, Administrator of Incar- the individual parishes for further in downtown Sarasota, just a few nation Parish in Bradenton and inviting them to discover how Faith people in mind whom she plans details as some gatherings are held blocks from St. Martha Parish. The Diocese Vocations Director, as well can give sense to their everyday to invite to future Theology on Tap off-site. bar includes an outdoor deck which as Father Shawn Roser, a Parochial lives. The evenings are about com- gatherings. “This was really nice,” In Lehigh Acres, the LOFT young offered the ideal location for fel- Vicar at St. Joseph Parish in Bra- ing together to socialize, collabo- she said. “Meeting Catholics my age adult group meets at 6 p.m. third lowship and a discussion about the denton who was ordained in July, rate, pray, and grow in their spiritu- is always hard. Plus, it is a struggle Mondays at St. Raphael Parish, faith in a comfortable and relaxed joined in the fellowship. al understanding all while building to live my faith because I just don’t 2514 Lee Blvd. Call 239-369-1831. setting. Father Roser also offered the a strong core community. have a real connection to my Par- In Fort Myers, ROOTED meets first Several years ago, Theology on opening prayer, which included a “This has real potential,” Mazrin ish.” Thursdays at St. John XXIII Parish, Tap rotated between Parishes in blessing for success of the event, the said. “We just need to spread the Mazrin said the next gather- 13060 Palomino Lane, Call 941- the Northern Deanery, but interest growth in faith for all and for the word.” ing will be in January with a date 561-3022 ext. 107. waned when there was a large gap beverages being consumed. Based on the response of those to announced through the Dio- For more information about Theol- one summer. The idea of Theology on Tap is to who attended in Sarasota Theology cese Young Adults Facebook page ogy on Tap, contact Joshua Mazrin Mazrin said this first reintroduc- bring together young adults where on Tap, the word will spread. at www.facebook.com/DOVY- at [email protected]. tion, which had little promotion, they feel most comfortable while One young lady had several oungAdults. n Mass to honor Variety of evenings are dedicated to charity widows, widowers Bishop Frank J. Dewane is cel- STAFF REPORT • Teach a Man to Fish Gala, 6:30 seling and foreclosure prevention, Keeping young mothers and ebrating a Mass for all widows and p.m., Feb. 2, Englewood Elks Club financial assistance, senior ser- their babies out of homeless- widowers at 3:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. VENICE | As people plan their Lodge #2378, Englewood, $65 a vices, professional counseling, as ness is a real need. Our Mother’s 20 at Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sara- busy seasonal social schedules, person, call 941-681-2194 or email well as refugee and immigration House Wine Tasting, Auction and sota Street, Venice. A dinner will fol- Catholic Charities Diocese of [email protected]; services. Dinner Dance Feb. 28 serves the low in the Parish Hall. Venice Inc. offer with lots of inter- Venetian Charity Ball, 6 p.m., Teach a Man to Fish Gala is Feb. program which is a comprehen- The concept for the Mass grew esting activities to choose from, Feb. 9, Hyatt Coconut Point, Bo- 2. This evening focuses on direct- sive outreach committed to help- out of the annual Mass honoring including evenings of elegance or nita Springs, $250 a person, call ly supporting New Paradigm of ing mothers and their children couples celebrating significant just casual fun. These events are 239-337-4193 or email venetian- Catholic Charities which provides achieve self-sufficiency through wedding anniversaries. Those opportunities to give back to the [email protected]; affordable, transitional housing a 24-month residency program. Masses, which will be, March 2 at community as the money spent • Boots and Bandannas Dinner to local families who are at risk of The evening will include a wine Epiphany Cathedral in Venice and will go to directly help our broth- Dance, 6 p.m., Feb. 23, Kingsway becoming homeless as well as the tasting. March 16 at St. Leo the Great Parish ers and sisters in Christ who are in Country Club, Port Charlotte, $75 education and training necessary Got plans for the weekend be- in Bonita Springs, are extraordi- need. per person, call 863-494-1068 or to live an independent life. fore Mardis Gras? The fun-filled narily popular, however each year In most cases, the Catholic email doroamorales@embarq- The faithful of Lee, Hendry and evening March 2 goes directly to there are empty spaces in the pews Charities galas are elegant black- mail.com; Hardee counties will have the op- help Bethesda House, a program when a spouse passes away. tie affairs, but no matter what the • Our Mother’s House Wine portunity to go to the Venetian of Catholic Charities which pro- “Widows and widowers are not attire, all of the proceeds will go Tasting, Auction and Dinner Charity Ball Feb. 9. Catholic Char- vides professional and compas- forgotten but are in fact recognized directly to help those in the com- Dance, 5:30 p.m., Feb. 28, Venice ities outreach there includes Posi- sionate support services for indi- and in particular revered by the munity where the event is held. Community Center, Venice, $85 a tive Youth Development Program, viduals suffering with HIV/AIDS. Church,” Bishop Dewane said. “The “These Catholic Charities galas person, call 941-485-6264 or email Senior Support Coordination Pro- Participants don’t have to be Book of Revelation says the Lamb and events are of critical impor- [email protected]; gram, Human Trafficking Victim Irish — but still want to wear will shepherd and lead those who tance as it brings like-minded and • Mardi Gras Madness, 6 p.m., Assistance Program, immigra- something green — to enjoy the grieve to the springs of life-giving faith-filled people together for a March 2, Michael’s on East, Sara- tion services, food assistance and Emerald Ball March 23. The water and God will wipe away every good cause,” said Catholic Chari- sota, $150 a person, call 941-355- pantries, DUI counseling, baby ball benefits programs in Collier tear from their eyes. This reminds ties Diocese of Venice Inc. CEO 4680, ext. 301 or email nmuth@ supplies, disaster response and County including financial assis- us that we can persevere to the end, Philomena Pereire. “Each gather- ccdis1.org; recovery, and direct assistance. tance, professional counseling, even to death.” ing serves to help educate people • Emerald Ball, 6 p.m., March For those who are interested food pantries and food programs, The celebration will include a about a critical need in the area, 23, Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort, in something a little more casual, empowerment program, refugee display of photos for viewing and while at the same time offering Naples, $400 a person, call 239- consider the Boots and Bandan- services, senior services, immi- be part of the Mass for widows and everyone a chance to have fun.” 455-2655 or email banderson@ nas Dinner Dance Feb. 23. As the gration services, soup kitchen, widowers. Should an attendee wish Upcoming events will be cen- catholiccharitiescc.org. name of the event states, boots clothing room and shower pro- to share a photo for the display, tered on various themes and most First on the calendar is the an- and bandannas are encouraged gram, English classes for moth- they can either bring the image to will include a cocktail hour, auc- nual Catholic Charities Ball Jan. and the evening will include live ers. In addition, there are special the event, email it to ardy@dioce- tion, dining and dancing. The key 26, which benefits the programs country music. The programs in projects such as the Weekend seofvenice.org, or mail it to Diocese dates are listed below with a more and services of Catholic Charities DeSoto County benefit and in- Power Pack Food Program for of Venice, Attn: Family Life Of- detailed description following:• in Sarasota and Manatee counties. clude immigration and family children, the Undy Sunday proj- fice, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, Catholic Charities Ball, 6 p.m., Proceeds will support programs reunification services, prevention ect, and holiday gift and food dis- Florida 34285. To register or receive Jan. 26, The Westin, Sarasota, including Our Mother’s House, St. and support services, after-school tribution. n more information, visit www.dio- $300 a person, call 941-355-4680, Martha’s Early Learning Center, tutoring program, and farm work- ceseofvenice.org/calendar, email ext. 301, or email nmuth@ccdis1. Bethesda House, Catholic Chari- er housing enrichment and edu- To learn more, visit www.catholic Kim Elsmore at elsmore@dioceseof org; ties Family Haven, housing coun- cational services. charitiesdov.org. venice.org, or call 941-484-9543. 5 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Courage in Red initiative has lasting impacts

STAFF REPORT cuted Christians. We want to say hello and Merry These are In addition, elementary schools Christmas to you. We pray for your samples of NAPLES | It was Nov. 28 when used the “Courage in Red” initiative peace and hope that someday, you some of letters written to Epiphany Cathedral was illumi- as the opportunity to teach about can practice your faith freely. Send- children in nated in red as a sign of unity with the early Christian martyrs. At St. ing blessings to you. From your the Holy Land persecuted Christians around the Andrew Catholic School in Cape Friends.” The letters also included by St. Martha world. This was done as part of Coral, the students learned about drawings of doves and peace sym- Catholic School the annual “Courage in Red” cam- various martyrs and held special bols as well a child’s prayer for students. paign, which was to bring attention prayer vigils throughout the day. peace. (COURTESY) to plight of our suffering brothers Meanwhile, at Incarnation Cath- Diocesan high schoolers and sisters more dramatically to the olic School in Sarasota, students watched the documentary “Chris- attention of faithful. It is reported created posters about Christian tians in the Mirror” that compares there are almost 300 million Chris- martyrs which included a short bi- and contrasts the plight of per- tians, or one in seven, who live in a ography and later presented what secuted Christians in the Middle that stood out to me in particular survivors. I’m going to embrace country of persecution, subject to they learned to the school. The East and Africa in contrast to other was how everyone responded to the my faith and not let anyone tell me violence, arrest, and human rights school Mass on Nov. 20 was in held Christian Churches that live in rela- hurting.” I can’t be Catholic or believe in Je- violations. in honor of persecuted Christians. tive peace. St. John Neumann Cath- • “One specific part of the ‘Chris- sus.” While the one-day “Courage Students at Incarnation and St. olic High School students in Naples tians in The Mirror’ that struck me • “The video made me think a lot; in Red” event was important in Martha Catholic schools in Sara- wrote down their initial thoughts is that many are happy and grate- about my life and how much I take spreading the word about the plight sota wrote letters to children in the on the documentary. Some com- ful. Something that stood out to me for granted when there are so many of those who suffered for living their Holy Land, which will be mailed ments included: is that even though people had their people scared for their lives while faith, the Diocese of Venice Catholic to Aid to the Church in Need, the • “Everything in movie re- homes destroyed, they are still hap- our generation is scared that their Schools carried that message fur- organizers of the “Courage in red” ally stood out to me. I have always py. They are happy because they post won’t get enough likes. I’m very ther. In addition to wearing red Nov. initiative. known about Christian persecu- have Jesus in their lives and they privileged to be where I am, to be in 28, each school held prayer services One letter read: “Dear children, tion, but I have never really under- are still alive.” this school, and to have a family to and/or prayed the rosary for perse- We are first graders in America. stood how bad it truly is. One thing • “What gave me hope was those go home to everyday.” n

NEWSbriefs Mass at Dawn continues through Dec. 23 Christmas Day Mass celebrating items. Lunch will be a Caesar salad with either salmon or chicken. For Television Mass for Haitian more information or to buy tickets visit www.olph-retreat.org or call the Homebound independence 941-486-0233 ext. 3002. The televised Christmas Day Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites Mass for the Homebound with everyone to participate in the An- Couples Date Night Bishop Frank J. Dewane as cel- nual Mass celebrating Haitian In- ebrant will air for a full hour Christ- dependence at 2 p.m., New Year’s Jan. 15 and 17 mas Day. For viewers in the north- Day, at St. Leo the Great Parish, The Office of Family Life is host- ern portions of the Diocese (DeSoto, 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita ing two parenting workshops to Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, and Springs. The Mass, which is on the offer tips and tricks that helped Sarasota counties), the Mass airs Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother hundreds of families thrive. Jim at 9:30 a.m. on the CW Network. of God, brings together the various and Maureen Otremba have been In the southern portions of the Haitian communities within the presenting for more than 20 years Diocese (Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Diocese of Venice for one celebra- and have given presentations to Hendry, Lee counties), the Mass tion. Bishop Désinord Jean, of the parishes and dioceses around the airs at 8 a.m. on WFTX-TV (FOX-4). Diocese of Hinche, Haiti, will be the country. Please check your cable provider principal celebrant and homilist. The workshops are at 6 p.m., Jan. for channel listings. Leaflet mis- There is a reception after the Mass 15, 2019, at Our Lady of Light Parish, sals are available upon request by in the parish hall. 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort My- calling 941-486-4714 or by writing: ers, and from 6 p.m., Jan. 17, 2019, Following the Filipino tradition, several parishes have hosted all or part TV Mass, Diocese of Venice, 1000 “Lord Teach Me at Our Lady of the Angels Parish, of the so-called Mass at Dawn (Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo). This no- Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. 12905 E. State Road 70, Lakewood vena of Masses in celebrated preparation for Christmas. In the diocese, the For more information, contact to Pray” series Ranch. The cost is $25 for materi- full novena was available at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Port Charlotte Gail Ardy at 941-486-4714 or email begins Jan. 8 als. Registration is needed. Pizza and began Dec. 15. Three Diocesan Filipino priests celebrated the opening [email protected]. dinner and drinks will be provided. Mass. Additional one-day Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo opportunities The “Lord Teach Me to Pray” Our Lady of the Angels will have took place Dec. 16 at Incarnation Parish in Sarasota and St. Andrew Par- 2018 Christmas prayer series is rooted in Ignatian babysitting available. For more ish in Cape Coral, as well as Dec. 21 at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita spirituality. The first part of the information and registration go to Springs. Although this tradition is not exclusive to Filipinos, its observance Appeal three-part series, “Praying Chris- www.dioceseofvenice.org/calen- is very much highlighted and distinctive of the Filipino Catholic culture. Catholic Charities launches the tian Virtues,” is being offered for dar. annual Christmas Appeal during women for 12 weeks beginning December 2018 and January 2019. Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019, at St. Thomas Spirituality The appeal, with a goal of $565,000, More Parish, 2506 Gulf Gate Drive, joys and challenges defining life Blue Mass in is the agency’s largest fundraiser Sarasota. For more details, email of Retirement characteristics such as career, mo- and critical to operating the social Veronica at [email protected]. workshop Jan. 16 bility, and relationships undergo Naples Jan. 26 service organization. Donations transition. This workshop provides St. Agnes Catholic Church, 7775 benefit Catholic Charities programs Fashion Show The Office of Family Life is host- strategies for retired Catholics to Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples will and services available through- ing a workshop at 1 p.m., Jan. 16, enrich their identity as cherished celebrate a Blue Mass in honor of out Southwest Florida that assist Jan. 12 2019, at St. William Parish Ministry members of the Body of Christ. The law enforcement and first respond- individuals, families, and seniors All are invited to Our Lady of Hall, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples. The presentation incorporates current ers, active and retired Saturday, Jan. all year long. To donate visit www. Perpetual Help Retreat Center, universal call to holiness invites research on brain biology, gen- 26, 2019, at 11 a.m. This year’s guest catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail 3989 South Moon Drive, Venice, Catholics to “the fullness of the erativity, and wellness. Suggested homilist will be Deacon Bob Monte- a donation to Catholic Charities, at 1 p.m. Jan 12, 2019, for an after- Christian life and the perfection of donation at the door. Register by longo of the Chicago police depart- Diocese of Venice, Inc., 5824 Bee noon of fashion, food and fun. Reg- charity,” according to Lumen Gen- Jan. 14, either online at www.dioce- ment. A luncheon will immediately Ridge Road, PMB #409, Sarasota, istration begins at 12:30 p.m. with tium. For Catholics in their retire- seofvenice.org/calendar, or call St. follow in the parish hall. R.S.V.P. at FL 34233-5065. Call 941-488-5581. an opportunity to bid on auction ment years, this invitation takes on William at 239-261-4883. 239-592-1949 for the reception. Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 6

GINGERBREAD HOUSES BISHOP GIVES ADVENT BLESSING

FLORIDA Catholic DIOCESE OF VENICE Vol. 80, No. 4

1000 Pinebrook Road Venice, FL 34285 941-484-9543 • Fax 941-483-1121

PUBLISHER Bishop Frank Dewane The Bishop Verot Catholic High School National Honor Society welcomed to the campus second and third graders from St. Andrew During the first week of Advent, Bishop Frank J. Dewane blessed DIOCESAN EDITOR Catholic School in Cape Coral and St. Francis Xavier Catholic School the Catholic Center Christmas tree at a prayer service with Catholic Bob Reddy in Fort Myers Dec. 6. The day included creating gingerbread houses Center employees Dec. 6. The tree was decorated, and various [email protected] and Christmas cookies. (COURTESY) holiday treats were offered. (COURTESY) 941-484-9543

• SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, Charitable Gift Annuities are ‘great’ way to increase income, support parishes or customerservice@theflorida catholic.org STAFF REPORT A Charitable Gift Annuity is a mended rates just increased this For instance, donors can create Notify us of address changes (temporary contract between a donor and the summer and are intended to pro- either one-life or two-life annui- or permanent) as soon as possible. Please VENICE | New higher rates of foundation whereby the donor duce a final gift to the Parish of ties, or they can even establish a change your address online at www. return make Charitable Gift An- receives an immediate tax deduc- approximately 50 percent of the gift annuity that makes payments thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at nuities a great way to increase in- tion along with fixed payments for original funding amount. to another person such as a child, 1-888-275-9953. come while also supporting your the rest of their life in exchange The minimum amount required parent or friend. Regardless of how Parish. for a gift of cash or securities. The to establish an annuity with the they are set up, gift annuities can • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at 407-373-0075 or A Charitable Gift Annuity with money remaining in the account at foundation is $10,000, which do- be appealing to a wide range of [email protected] the Catholic Community Founda- the end of their life is given to the nors can fund with either cash or individuals who are interested in • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at tion of Southwest Florida is a great Catholic entity they choose as their securities. A donor can receive an generating fixed income. n 1-888-275-9953, or way for donors to support Parish beneficiary, such as a local Parish added benefit if they fund their an- [email protected] programs and ministries, while or Catholic school. nuity with appreciated securities To learn more about Charitable generating fixed life-long income The foundation utilizes annu- because they will be able to mini- Gift Annuities or about the Catho- State Offices:50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; for themselves or a loved one, ex- ity rates provided by the American mize the capital gains tax liability lic Community Foundation of Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- plained Michael Morse, execu- Council on Gift Annuities, which by spreading it over their life ex- Southwest Florida, contact Michael free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 tive director of the Catholic Com- are based on age, life expectancy, pectancy. Morse at 941-441-1124, Morse@ munity Foundation of Southwest and assumed investment returns, Charitable Gift Annuities can be dioceseofvenice.org, or visit www. EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: Florida. Morse noted. The council recom- established in a number of ways. ccfdioceseofvenice.org. Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Business Manager: Pat Spencer Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael Carlock AIRPORT MUSICIANS LADY’S WEIGHTLIFTING TEAM Advertising Graphic Designer: Michael Jimenez Advertising Sales Associate: Valerie Casko Advertising Sales Associate: Tim Shea

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String musicians from Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School in Venice entertained travelers at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport The Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School Lady Cougar weightlifting Dec. 4, with a holiday concert. Musicians from Cardinal Mooney team made its debut in November. This new Sarasota team consists Catholic High School in Sarasota also had their own holiday concert of 15 inaugural participants and will be competing against teams a few days later. (COURTESY) at competitions throughout the region. (COURTESY)

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ARCADIA BRADENTON ENGLEWOOD FORT MYERS (cont.) LABELLE ■ St. Paul ■ Sacred Heart ■ St. Raphael ■ St. Francis Xavier ■ Holy Martyrs 1208 E. Oak St. 1220 15th St. W. 770 Kilbourne Ave. 2157 Cleveland Ave. 4290 Crescent Ave. S.W. 863-494-2611 mysacredheart.com www.StRaphEng.org www.stfrancisfm.org 863-675-0030 CHRISTMAS EVE 941-748-2221 941-474-9595 239-334-2161 CHRISTMAS EVE 5:30 p.m., midnight (Spanish) CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 10 p.m. (Bilingual) CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 7 p.m. (Spanish), 10:30 p.m. 4 p.m., 10:30 p.m. 4 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 9 a.m., 11 a.m. (Spanish) CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. (Spanish), 11:30 9 a.m., 11 a.m. (Spanish) 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 6:45 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:15 a.m. (Spanish) p.m., 2 p.m. (Polish), 4 p.m. (Haitian) AVE MARIA ■ Ss. Peter and Paul ■ Our Lady Queen 2850 75th St. W. EVERGLADES CITY ■ St. John XXIII of Heaven ■ Ave Maria 13060 Palomino Lane 5068 Annunciation www.sspeterandpaul.org 355 S. Bridge St. ■ Holy Family www.johnxxiii.net Circle, Ste. 101 941-795-1228 200 Datura Ave. 863-675-0030 239-561-2245 www.avemariaparish.org CHRISTMAS EVE 239-394-5181 CHRISTMAS EVE 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE 5 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (Spanish) 239-261-5555 CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 9 p.m., 11 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 10:30 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. (Vietnamese) 9 a.m., noon (Spanish) 5 p.m., midnight CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 7:15 a.m., 9:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 1:30 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. ■ St. Joseph FORT MYERS 3100 26th St. W. p.m. (Spanish) LAKE PLACID www.sjcfl.org ■ Jesus the Worker 881 Nuna Ave. ■ St. Vincent de Paul ■ St. James AVON PARK 941-756-3732 13031 Palm Beach Blvd. 3380 Placid View Drive CHRISTMAS EVE www.jesustheworker.org 863-465-3215 ■ Our Lady of Grace 4 p.m., 7 p.m., 10:30 p.m. 239-693-5333 www.stvincentfortmyers.org 239-693-0818 CHRISTMAS EVE 595 E. Main St. CHRISTMAS DAY (ALL MASSES IN SPANISH) 5:30 p.m., 10 p.m. www.ologap.org 9 a.m., 11 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY 863-453-4757 7 p.m. 7 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 8 a.m., 10 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY BUCKHEAD RIDGE 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m. (Spanish) noon ■ Santiago Apostol Mission CHRISTMAS DAY ■ St. Theresa of 685 County Road 621 E. 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. ■ San Jose FORT MYERS 863-385-0049 the Child Jesus 10750 Gladiolus Drive 1027 Chobee Loop CHRISTMAS EVE 239-639-5333 BEACH 10 p.m. (Spanish) BOCA GRANDE 863-946-0696 (ALL MASSES IN SPANISH) CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Ascension ■ Our Lady of Mercy 4 p.m. 6025 Estero Blvd. 10 a.m. (Spanish) 240 Park Ave. 7 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 239-463-6754 941-964-2254 10 a.m. Noon CHRISTMAS EVE LAKEWOOD RANCH CHRISTMAS EVE 7 p.m., 9 p.m. 5 p.m., 10 p.m. ■ Our Lady of Light CHRISTMAS DAY ■ Our Lady of the Angels CHRISTMAS DAY CAPE CORAL 8 a.m., 10 a.m. 12905 State Road 70 E. 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 19680 Cypress View Drive ■ St. Andrew www.ourladyoflight.com www.olangelscc.org 2628 Del Prado Blvd. S. 239-267-7088 941-752-6770 BOKEELIA www.standrewrcc.org CHRISTMAS EVE GROVE CITY CHRISTMAS EVE 239-574-4545 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m. 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. ■ Our Lady of the ■ St. Francis of Assisi CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY 5265 Placida Road Miraculous Medal 4 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m. 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 12175 Stringfellow Road (Spanish), 11 p.m. www.sfoachurch.com 941-697-4899 www.miraculousmedalch.org CHRISTMAS DAY ■ Resurrection of Our Lord 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 8121 Cypress Lake Drive CHRISTMAS EVE 239-283-0456 4 p.m., 8 p.m. LEHIGH ACRES CHRISTMAS EVE p.m. (Spanish) www.ResurrectionCh.org 3 p.m., 6 p.m. 239-481-7172 CHRISTMAS DAY ■ St. Raphael 8 a.m., 10 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY ■ St. Katharine Drexel CHRISTMAS EVE 2514 Lee Blvd. 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 1922 S.W. 20th Ave. 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 10 p.m. 239-369-1831 saintkatharinedrexelparish.org CHRISTMAS DAY HOLMES BEACH CHRISTMAS EVE 239-283-9501 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1:15 5 p.m., 10 p.m. BONITA SPRINGS CHRISTMAS EVE p.m. (Latin) ■ St. Bernard CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 6 p.m., midnight 248 S. Harbor Drive 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, 4 p.m. (Spanish) ■ St. Leo CHRISTMAS DAY ■ St. Cecilia www.stbernardcc.com 28290 Beaumont Road 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. 5632 Sunrise Drive www.stleocatholicchurch.org 941-778-4769 LONGBOAT KEY www.saintcecilias.org CHRISTMAS EVE 239-992-0901 239-936-3635 4 p.m., 10 p.m. ■ St. Mary, Star of the Sea CHRISTMAS EVE CLEWISTON CHRISTMAS EVE 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 9 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive ■ Santa Rosa de Lima 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 9 p.m. 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. www.stmarylbk.org CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 5 835 N. Mayoral St. 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 941-383-1255 p.m. (Spanish) Montura Ranch Estates IMMOKALEE CHRISTMAS EVE 863-983-8585 ■ St. Columbkille 4 p.m., 9 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Our Lady of Guadalupe CHRISTMAS DAY 12171 Iona Road 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 7 p.m. (Spanish) www.stcolumbkille.com 219 S. 9th St. CHRISTMAS DAY 239-657-2666 8 a.m. (Spanish) 239-489-3973 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 7 p.m. (Spanish), 10 p.m. (Creole) ■ St. Margaret 3 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 208 N. Deane Duff Ave. 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 5:30 p.m. 9 a.m., 10:15 a.m. (Spanish), 863-983-8585 12:15 p.m. (Spanish), 3 p.m. (Creole), CHRISTMAS EVE 7 p.m. (Spanish) 8:30 p.m. (Spanish), 10:30 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 10 a.m., noon (Spanish) Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 8

SERVICES ARE IN ENGLISH DIOCESE OF VENICE UNLESS NOTED.

MARCO ISLAND NAPLES (cont.) PALMETTO SARASOTA SARASOTA (cont.) ■ San Marco ■ St. Peter the Apostle ■ Holy Cross ■ Christ the King ■ St. Patrick 851 San Marco Road 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road 505 26th St. W. 1900 Meadowood St. 7900 Bee Ridge Road www.sanmarcochurch.com stpeterchurch.naples.net 941-729-3891 www.Christthekingsarasota.org www.churchofstpatrick.org 239-394-5181 239-774-3337 CHRISTMAS EVE 941-924-2777 941-378-1703 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 4 p.m., 9 p.m. (Spanish) (ALL MASSES IN LATIN) CHRISTMAS EVE 3:45 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 10 p.m. 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 9 p.m., 10:30 CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE 4:15 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY p.m. (Creole), midnight (Spanish) 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) midnight CHRISTMAS DAY 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 2 p.m. (Spanish), 3:30 p.m. (Creole) PARRISH ■ St. Thomas More MOORE HAVEN ■ Incarnation 2506 Gulf Gate Drive ■ St. William ■ St. Frances ■ St. Joseph the Worker 2901 Bee Ridge Road www.stthomasmore.org 750 Seagate Drive Xavier Cabrini www.incarnationchurch.org 1800 N. U.S. Highway 27 12001 69th St. E. 941-923-1691 www.stwilliam.org 941-921-6631 CHRISTMAS EVE 863-946-0696 www.stfrancesxcabrini.org 239-261-4883 CHRISTMAS EVE 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 941-776-9097 7:30 p.m. (Spanish) 4 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m., 10 p.m. (Polish) CHRISTMAS DAY 2:45 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:15 p.m., CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY 9:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 10 p.m. 4 p.m., midnight 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 8 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. ■ Our Lady Queen SEBRING NAPLES of Martyrs ■ St. Catherine NOCATEE PORT CHARLOTTE 6600 Pennsylvania Ave. 820 Hickory St. ■ St. Agnes 941-755-1826 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road www.stcathe.com ■ Capilla Católica de ■ San Antonio CHRISTMAS EVE 863-385-0049 www.stagnesnaples.org 24445 Rampart Blvd. 3 p.m., 5 p.m., midnight San Juan Diego CHRISTMAS EVE 239-592-1949 5247 S.W. Highway 17 www.sanantoniocatholicchurch. CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 9 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE 863-494-2611 com 7:30 a.m., 10 a.m. 4 p.m., 5 p.m. (Palmetto Ridge High CHRISTMAS DAY School), 7 p.m., midnight, CHRISTMAS EVE 941-624-3799 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon (Spanish) midnight (Latin) 6 p.m. (Spanish) CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Jude 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., midnight 3930 17th St. CHRISTMAS DAY 7:15 a.m. (Latin), 7:30 a.m., 8:45 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY www.stjudesarasota.com VENICE (Latin), 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. (Latin), 11 NORTH FORT 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 941-955-3934 a.m., 1 p.m. (Spanish), 5 p.m. MYERS CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Epiphany Cathedral ■ St. Charles Borromeo 5 p.m., 11 p.m. (Spanish) 350 Tampa Ave. W. ■ St. Ann ■ St. Therese 2500 Easy St. CHRISTMAS DAY www.epiphanycathedral.org 985 Third St. S. 20155 N. Tamiami Trail www.stcharlespc.org 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m. (Spanish), 941-484-3505 www.naplesstann.com www.sainttheresechurch.net 941-625-4754 10:30 a.m., noon (Spanish) CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 9 p.m. (Polish), 239-262-4256 239-567-2315 midnight CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 4 p.m., 6 p.m., midnight ■ St. Martha 4 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m. 4 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 200 N. Orange Ave. CHRISTMAS DAY 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. (French www.stmartha.org 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 8 a.m., 10 a.m. Creole) 941-366-4210 CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Our Lady of Lourdes ■ St. Elizabeth Seton ■ St. Maximilian Kolbe 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 9 p.m. (Vietnamese/ 1301 Center Road 5225 Golden Gate Parkway NORTH PORT 1441 Spear St. Hall), 10 p.m., midnight www.ollvenice.org www.saintelizabethseton.org Stmaxcatholic.org CHRISTMAS DAY 941-497-2931 ■ San Pedro 941-743-6877 7:30 a.m., 8 a.m. (Spanish/Hall), CHRISTMAS EVE 239-455-3900 14380 Tamiami Trail 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, CHRISTMAS EVE 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 8 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE www.sanpedrocc.org noon (Vietnamese/Hall), 5:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. (Spanish), 4:30 p.m., 8:15 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY midnight 941-426-2500 CHRISTMAS DAY 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon CHRISTMAS EVE 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. ■ St. Michael the Archangel CHRISTMAS DAY 5:30 p.m., midnight 5394 Midnight Pass Road 9 a.m., 11 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY www.stmichaelssiesta.com WAUCHULA ■ St. Finbarr 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. PUNTA GORDA 941-349-4174 CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Michael 13520 Tamiami Trail E. ■ Sacred Heart 4 p.m., 10 p.m. 408 Heard Bridge Road www.stfinbarr.org OSPREY 211 W. Charlotte Ave. CHRISTMAS DAY 863-773-4089 239-417-2084 www.sacredheartfl.org 8 a.m., 10 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Our Lady of 941-639-3957 10 p.m. (bilingual) 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. (Spanish) Mount Carmel CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 425 S. Tamiami Trail 4 p.m., 10 p.m. 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. (Spanish), 8 a.m. (Spanish), 10 a.m. 11:30 a.m. (Spanish) www.olmc-osprey.org CHRISTMAS DAY 941-966-0807 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. ■ St. John the Evangelist CHRISTMAS EVE 625 111th Ave. N. 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m. www.saintjohntheevangelist.com CHRISTMAS DAY SANIBEL 239-566-8740 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Isabel 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 10 p.m. 3559 Sanibel Captiva Road CHRISTMAS DAY www.saintisabel.com 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m. 239-472-2763 CHRISTMAS EVE 5 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 10:30 a.m. 12550-1221 9 QUICK READS Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019

NATION humanitarian, stabilization, and Archbishop Luc Ravel of Strasbourg recovery needs of former and cur- said in a Dec. 12 statement. He said WORLD rent religious minority residents of he felt the same “vertigo” he had af- Faith advocates Iraq and Syria. The assistance may ter the 2015 terror attacks in Paris. YOUTH come through the federal govern- “Vertigo in front of the lucid mad- see victories ment or other entities, including ness of the assassin, who should not DAY in new farm bill faith-based groups. make anyone believe that his act is rational or religious. It is absolutely With Panama WASHINGTON | The farm bill necessary that all religious authori- City as the backdrop, a that passed both houses of Con- WORLD ties rigorously denounce this vi- young man gress by wide margins doesn’t have cious rapprochement between God waves the flag money in it to protect endangered Cardinal shocked and terrorism,” wrote Archbishop of Panama species, but it did preserve one that Ravel. Pope Francis expressed his following a had been on the threatened list: bi- to learn vicar sent “sadness and concern” after learn- prayer vigil for partisanship. “We were so excited 2 pedophiles to U.S. ing of the attack in Strasbourg, as young people that the Senate acted like grown- well as his “firm condemnation in late April. ups,” said Sister Simone Campbell, LONDON | An English cardi- against such acts.” World Youth executive director of Network, a nal has told an inquiry into child Day 2019 will Catholic social justice lobby. “They abuse of his shock at learning that Priest killed as he be celebrated actually did governance, and they a vicar general of his former arch- Jan. 22-27 in had hearings, and Sen. (Pat) Rob- diocese tried to help two pedo- takes collection Panama City. erts (a Republican) from Kansas: I phile priests escape to the United funds to the bank The Florida rarely agree with him on anything, States. The Independent Inquiry Catholic will so this was an amazing project he into Child Sex Abuse revealed for NAIROBI, Kenya | A Catholic offer coverage led, focused on the needs of the the first time that Msgr. Daniel priest was shot dead by unknown of the event people involved,” Sister Campbell Leonard, a former vicar general of robbers Dec. 10 near his parish in in the new said. “It was far beyond partisan- the Archdiocese of Birmingham, central Kenya as he was taking the year. (BOB ship in actually trying to make ordered a priest to tip off Father Sunday Mass offerings to the bank. ROLLER | CNS) government work.” Jim Ennis, ex- Samuel Penney that he was about Father John Njoroge Muhia of Ki- ecutive director of Catholic Rural to be arrested and to give him cash noo Parish in Kiambu, part of the Life, was happy Congress acted to flee to the United States. It also Nairobi Archdiocese, was accosted relatively swiftly. This was the revealed that Msgr. Leonard, who by four robbers on motorcycles. also known as Daesh or IS, in 2014. blue stripes bordering the bottom first time a farm bill passed with- is now deceased, provided Father They obstructed the priest’s car on He remained for a month after the symbolize the blue stripes of Moth- out needing an extension of the James Robinson with a good char- a rough road, forced him to stop takeover, but eventually left, fleeing er Teresa’s white sari. expiring version since 1990, when acter reference so he could transfer and demanded the bag that he had to Irbil. “At the beginning they tried George H.W. Bush was president. to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, in his car. One of the robbers re- to show people they were good, that Climate negotiator Not all farmers will reap benefits even though the priest was facing portedly drew a pistol, shot Father they would simply control the area from the farm bill. “We’ve got lots allegations of child abuse in the Njoroge in the chest and snatched and things would be normal. But looks to NGOs of folks hurting in rural communi- U.K. Giving evidence to the in- a bag and mobile phone before then they showed their true face,” to override inaction ties,” Ennis told CNS Dec. 14, “but quiry, Cardinal Vincent Nichols of escaping on the motorcycles. The he said. In Irbil, he ran a camp for you can’t put everything in one bill. Westminster said: “This comes as priest was pronounced dead on hundreds of displaced Christian KATOWICE, Poland | The Holy You just can’t.” The Senate passed a shock to me that such a course arrival at the county hospital. “We families, but soon after Mosul was See’s chief delegate at the United the farm bill in a 87-13 vote Dec. 11. of action could have been in the are saddened by the killing of Fa- liberated by Iraqi forces in 2017, he Nations climate talks in Katowice The House passed it 369-47 Dec. mind of the then vicar general. “It ther Njoroge,” Father Francis Kia- began returning to the war-ravaged urged the development of stronger 12. The bill was awaiting the sig- is shocking. If I understand things rie, who has worked with the dead city. links among nongovernmental or- nature of President Donald Trump. correctly, it is criminal intent,” said priest, told Catholic News Service. ganizations in the drive for a final Cardinal Nichols, president of the “While we ask why, we condemned Pope heads agreement as the two-week con- Law will provide Bishops’ Conference of England the act in the strongest terms pos- ference near its end. The call Dec. and Wales, at the Dec. 13 hear- sible. The killing of people of God is to Balkans in May 12 from Msgr. Bruno-Marie Duffe, relief to victims ing in London. The cardinal, who not unacceptable.” An eyewitness VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis secretary of the Vatican’s Dicast- in Iraq, Syria served as archbishop of Birming- in a nearby construction site said he will make a three-day visit to Bul- ery for the Promotion of Inte- ham from 2000 to 2009, said Msgr. heard gunshots and saw two motor- garia and the former Yugoslav re- gral Human Development, came WASHINGTON | President Don- Leonard was in a nursing home cycles moving at high speed on the public of Macedonia, the Vatican amidst signs of resistance to any ald Trump has signed into law the when he took over as archbishop, road. He added that his workers announced. He will be the first substantive agreement emerg- Iraq and Syria Genocide Relief and and he met him only once. Cardi- had told him that the men on the pope to visit the Republic of Mace- ing from the conference from the Accountability Act of 2018, which nal Nichols said he found a “much- motorcycles had shot someone and donia, which declared indepen- United States and other developed will provide humanitarian relief to diminished old man who was were escaping. Photos of priest’s dence from the former Yugoslavia countries. “It’s difficult to develop genocide victims in Iraq and Syria clearly incapable of remembering car show that the robbers had fired in 1991. “Accepting the invitation of an international approach when and hold accountable Islamic State much.” through the front windshield. the respective highest authorities” some governments don’t want perpetrators of genocide. “The leg- of both nations and of the Catholic to continue participating in dia- islation signed today again reminds Bishop speaks Priest rebuilds communities there, Pope Francis logue. But it’s important to con- us of America’s earlier efforts to aid will travel to Bulgaria May 5-7 and tinue talking with all the social victims of genocide -- Christian of ‘lucid madness’ church in war- Macedonia May 7, Greg Burke, di- actors,” Msgr. Duffe said during a communities targeted by Ottomans after terror attack torn Mosul rector of the Vatican press office, media briefing at the Conference a century ago and Jewish survivors said in a written statement Dec. of Parties to the U.N. Framework of Shoah,” Supreme Knight Carl An- STRASBOURG, France | At MOSUL, Iraq | Christians are 13. While the pope’s itinerary will Convention on Climate Change, derson said in a Dec. 11 statement. noon Dec. 12, the bells of every cautiously returning to Mosul, the be published later, Burke said the or COP24. With the bill now law, “America Catholic church in Strasbourg rang once-bustling Iraqi city that for pope would visit the Macedonian “The church must go on promot- speaks with bold moral clarity and for 10 minutes to honor the vic- three years was the capital of the capital, Skopje, which is the birth- ing solidarity among nations and political unanimity,” he added. tims of a terror attack at a Christ- caliphate established by the Islamic place of St. Teresa of Kolkata, and peoples and remember past acts Anderson and other officials of the mas market the previous day. On State group. They just aren’t spend- the Bulgarian capital of Sofia and of cooperation not just at the level Knights of Columbus took part in Dec. 11, a shooter opened fire on ing the night. “There are almost the city of Rakovski -- the city with of states and political decision- a signing ceremony at the White the crowd, killing at least two and no Christians in Mosul at night. the largest number of Catholics in makers,” he said. Msgr. Duffe said House. As chairman of the U.S. injuring 12 others. Police said the During the day, there may by 60 Bulgaria, which is predominately he had met with U.S. representa- bishops’ Committee on Interna- suspect, a 29-year-old man pre- or 70 Christians who come here to Orthodox. Catholics make up less tives Dec. 11, three days after they tional Justice and Peace, Archbish- sumably linked to radical Islam, work, along with up to a thousand than 1 percent of Bulgaria’s 7 mil- joined Russian, Saudi Arabian and op Timothy P. Broglio of the U.S. fled the scene after he was injured Christian students at the University lion people. The Vatican released Kuwaiti delegates in opposing an Archdiocese for the Military Ser- by soldiers. The attacker was said to of Mosul, but they go back to safer the logo and motto of both trips. official “welcome” by COP24 del- vices praised the new law, calling it have yelled “Allahu Akbar” (Allah towns at night,” Father Amanuel “Do not be afraid any longer, little egates of an October report by the a “critical” measure and “a signal of is the greatest) during the incident. Adel Kloo told Catholic News Ser- flock” from Luke 12:32 was chosen Intergovernmental Panel on Cli- hope for the critically vulnerable of Police said the suspect was radical- vice. Father Kloo, a Syriac Catholic, for the Republic of Macedonia. The mate Change with new warnings this region.” The law enables finan- ized while in prison. “Once again, was the last priest to leave Mosul colors — red and gold —match the of disastrous effects if greenhouse cial and technical assistance for the terrorist violence has struck us,” after it was seized by Islamic State, colors of the nation’s flag and three gas emissions are not curtailed. Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS 10 Christmas season brings joy, stress for survivors of disasters CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE gage more traumatized adults at to normal at all for them, and kids one of the parishes most impacted are very much aware of that with MIAMI | After spending a week by the storm but found themselves garbage in the streets and downed with adults and Catholic school more useful by reaching out to par- trees.” children in the hurricane-impact- ents, students, faculty and staff at The team met separately with ed Florida Panhandle, one mental one Catholic elementary school school faculty and staff. health professional noted how the which has absorbed the entire stu- The Christmas and Advent sea- Christmas season is a mixed bless- dent body of another school which son, she noted, may be a time of ing for survivors of natural disas- closed due to Hurricane Michael. joy and good feelings but also be a ters. St. John Catholic School in Pan- cause for more stressful triggers for “Right now the holidays are ama City suffered catastrophic those displaced families who real- working in two different ways -- wind and rain damage and is host- ize there won’t be a Christmas tree both as a distraction and an un- ing classes at nearby St. Bernadette in their own home this year. Damage caused by Hurricane Michael is seen Oct. 16 in Mexico derlying stress factor for parents Parish for the foreseeable future. For others, the season will bring Beach, Fla. A mental health professional who has been working with both emotionally and financially Much of the impacted region re- a pleasant distraction for the short adults and Catholic school children in the hurricane-impacted Florida but in another way it is good thing mains without power and clean term, only to find their new reality Panhandle said the Christmas season is a mixed blessing for survivors kids are looking forward, knowing water; the storm’s death toll rose will quickly bring them back down of natural disasters. (TERRAY SYLVESTER, REUTERS CNS) that Christmas is coming and it is to at least 29 in Florida alone and to earth in the new year. something else to think about,” a total of 39 across the Southern Gomez-Cardona said she of- eryone has problems and should ized counseling with students and said Claudia J. Gomez-Cardona, is United States. fered parents and school staff and remember life is not perfect but adults in the Panama City area. a regional director of counseling Gomez-Cardona said she and faculty a series of practical mea- still make a point to focus on the Many of the staff from St. John for Catholic Charities of the Arch- her team went from classroom to sures for natural disaster survivors blessing of good health or one’s Catholic School in Panama City diocese of Miami. classroom and began easing into during the holiday season, includ- children, and then expand on that, have considerable problems of Gomez-Cardona and other a series of conversations about the ing: write it down, call someone and their own that they haven’t had Catholic Charities licensed men- hurricane, listening to the young- • Start with the spiritual com- tell then you are grateful. time to address. tal health counselors from around ster’s stories and encouraging the ponent of Advent and stay focused • Get out into the community, It also was noteworthy to hear South Florida spent the first week younger children to simply draw a on what Christmas is really about. join activities, be a little more open youth from first grade to eighth of December offering therapy and representation of their feelings and Stay in the present moment and with people who want to help you grade expressing a lot of grati- faculty training to hard-hit areas memories of the storm. see what you need to do and then or love you and don’t stay isolated. tude to the emergency respond- of Northwest Florida following “The kids really needed this; it do what you can with those things • For some, there may be feel- ers and post-hurricane workers in this year’s unusually strong storm is amazing how they shared their that you control. ings of suicide and be on the look- the community who were putting there. feelings and how scared they were • If there is something beyond out for family and friends who may things back together in the Pan- Hurricane Michael’s Oct. 10 from the hurricane,” Gomez-Car- your control, pray or talk to others be feeling suicidal. handle, she added. landfall brought near Category-5 dona told the Florida Catholic.. about it, do some discernment and Gomez-Cardona said other Gabe Tischler, who is working strength winds when it came “We talked about how they are try to step back and focus on the mental health teams from Catholic full time on the Hurricane Michael ashore at Mexico Beach, near Pan- doing now,” she added, “and you things you can be grateful for. Fo- Charities agencies around Florida response for the Tallahassee-based ama City on the Florida Gulf Coast. could see some leftover feelings of cus on one positive thing each day. have continued to stay in the re- Florida Catholic Conference fol- The visiting mental health team fear because the community is still • Even after fostering a sense gion in order to move from group lowing the storm, has noted that initially expected they would en- so damage: Life doesn’t feel back of gratitude understand that ev- therapy opportunities to personal- Catholic Charities entities in the region have distributed some $6 million in aid, services and donations since the storm, and that St. L.A. archdiocese seeks charges against nuns for embezzlement Dominic continues to serve some 2,500 families daily. RHINA GUIDOS in a letter it agreed to a “full restitu- of Los Angeles about its intention a religious house under the super- It is expected that the project Catholic News Service tion” of money used for personal to file a criminal complaint with vision of community leadership. may continue unabated well into matters by the two women, but it the Torrance Police Department They also have been removed from next year. n WASHINGTON | The Archdio- would not seek criminal charges. against its two members for misap- all public ministry. n cese of Los Angeles has changed But after officials at the Dec. 3 meet- propriation of funds. its mind about not seeking charges ing revealed that they may have “As a religious community, we against two women religious who used the money for gambling and will not defend the actions of our were found to have “misappropri- also disclosed the amount, parents sisters. What happened is wrong,” Born to Evangelize... ated” a “substantial amount” of began speaking out against the de- the statement said. “Our sisters take money, perhaps up to half a mil- cision. full responsibility for the choices lion dollars, from one of its Catholic Sister Kreuper was a former prin- they made and are subject to the The next step is yours. schools. cipal of the school and Sister Chang law.” Various news stories say that af- was a former teacher there and also The statement said the order is ter archdiocesan officials disclosed served as vice principal. Both re- cooperating with the archdiocese in a Dec. 3 meeting with parents tired at the end of the 2017-18 school to discover how much was taken from St. James Catholic School in year. An examination of financial and will make full restitution once Torrance that Sister Mary Marga- records undertaken after the wom- the exact amount is known. ret Kreuper and Sister Lana Chang en left revealed the discrepancies. Canonical restrictions have been had perhaps embezzled as much In a Dec. 10 statement on a imposed on the pair, the statement as $500,000, the school community website, the Sisters of St. Joseph of said, but did not disclose what they expressed outrage. Carondelet confirmed that they are, and the two have been removed A spokeswoman later told vari- were notified by the Archdiocese from their residence and placed in ous news outlets after the meeting that the archdiocese would no longer be just seeking restitution from the nun’s religious order, the Sisters Join us! of St. Joseph of Carondelet, but it 818-825-0839 would cooperate with authorities in CLARETIAN an investigation against the women 312-320-8870 religious that could result in level- ing charges against them. www.myclaret.org MISSIONARIES

Earlier, the archdiocese had said 12596-1220 11 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Jesuit: Ignoring reality of abuse, resisting responsibility must end CAROL GLATZ the Meeting of Bishops on the solidarity, above all with the vic- nized that in many other countries, Catholic News Service Protection of Minors,” was sent to tims, with their families and with little, if anything, has been done.” journalists Dec. 13 ahead of the is- their church communities that have Every bishops’ conference, bish- VATICAN CITY | Anyone who sue’s Dec. 15 publication date. The been wounded by the scandals,” he op and religious superior must rec- still believes the abuse crisis is an Rome-based biweekly magazine is wrote. ognize their responsibility before “American” or “Western” problem reviewed by the Vatican Secretariat Pope Francis, he added, has also God, the church and society, he said. must become properly informed, of State before publication. widened the scope of abuse to in- In many cases, the seriousness of face reality and realize problems Father Lombardi, who served clude not just sexual abuse but the the problem of abuse and the deep may be hidden and explode in the as head of the Vatican press office abuse of power and of conscience amount of suffering it causes still future, said Jesuit Father Federico from 2006 to 2016, is president of and the corruption of authority, have not sunk in, Father Lombardi Anyone who still believes the Lombardi. the board of directors of the Joseph which is no longer lived as service wrote. abuse crisis is an “American” And those who think too much Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Foundation but as the wielding of power. People do not need a theoretical or “Western” problem must talk and attention about abuse only and is a contributing writer to the Je- The February summit will give understanding, but actual concrete become properly informed, said blows the situation out of proportion suit journal. people a chance to share experi- awareness of the damage caused, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi. or that it is time to change the topic The article, which as of Dec. 13 ences and best practices, he said, and that will push people to over- (CLAUDIO PERI, EPA | CNS) are following “a mistaken path,” he was available only in Italian, looked and to strongly encourage everyone come “laziness, fears and very dan- said in the Jesuit journal, La Civilta at the aims and intentions of the to make “new urgent steps forward.” gerous resistance” and to leap into People must look carefully and Cattolica. summit Pope Francis convoked at While many lessons already have action. never avoid the presence of prob- “If the issue is not fully confront- the Vatican Feb. 21-24 for the presi- been learned, “there are also many “Often one continues to delude lems, which are “sometimes still ed in all of its various dimensions, dents of bishops’ conferences, rep- open questions” left to address, he oneself that it is mainly a ‘Western’ hidden, but are such that future the church will continue to find it- resentatives of religious orders and said. or else an ‘American’ or ‘Anglo- dramatic explosions are possible,” self facing one crisis after another, heads of Vatican dicasteries. One is recognizing that even phone’ problem and with incredible Father Lombardi wrote. “Facing the credibility of (the church) and A major focus, he wrote, will be though a number of countries have naivete, thinks that (the problem) reality is necessary and adequate all of her priests will remain seri- on helping participants understand done much in the area of prevention may be marginal in one’s own coun- information will help a lot in this ously wounded and, above all, the they are being encouraged to join and formation, “it must be recog- try,” he wrote. regard.” n essence of her mission will suffer together -- not as representatives of -- that of proclaiming the Gospel their own people -- but as leaders of and its educational work for chil- the people of God on a journey that Archbishop Nienstedt’s ministry restricted dren and young people, which for requires the input and collaboration centuries has been one of the most of lay experts so that there may be “a MARIA WIERING In this 2015 beautiful and precious aspects of united response on the universal Catholic News Service file photo, her service for humanity,” he wrote. level.” Archbishop John C. The article, “In the Run-up to “The entire church must feel in | Archbishop ST. PAUL, Minn. Nienstedt is Bernard A. Hebda of St. Paul and seen in the Minneapolis said Dec. 14 that until Archdiocese “all open allegations are resolved,” of St. Paul and his predecessor, Archbishop John Minneapolis. A Christmas Gift C. Nienstedt, is not free to exercise (DAVE public ministry in the archdiocese. HRBACEK, TO LAST FOR YEARS TO COME! Archbishop Hebda released a let- THE CATHOLIC ter to the faithful of the archdiocese SPIRIT | CNS) Ave Maria Catholic Church in Ave Maria, Florida offers you to clarify the status of the prelate. The 11-member Archdiocesan Archdiocesan leaders engaged two The allegation was made not to a unique opportunity to share the important moments of your Ministerial Review Board, which separate law firms in the investiga- the archdiocese but to the Ramsey life with a paver or facing stone on the parish grounds. addresses allegations of clergy tion. County Attorney’s Office. It be- misconduct, was consulted and Archbishop Nienstedt, who re- came public in 2016 when the rel- recommended that Archbishop signed his position as leader of the evant documentation was released Hebda publicly clarify that Arch- Archdiocese St. Paul and Minne- by Ramsey County. At that time, bishop Nienstedt, like any priest apolis in June 2015, has maintained Archbishop Hebda, who has led facing similar allegations, is not that he is innocent of the allega- the archdiocese since Archbishop free to engage in public ministry in tions. Nienstedt’s resignation, shared the this archdiocese until pending al- The investigation was forwarded released materials with the nuncia- legations are resolved. Archbishop to the U.S. nunciature but has not ture. Hebda said he agrees with the rec- been made public. According to the allegation, ommendation. The restriction took “As far as I know, any effort by Archbishop Nienstedt, as bishop effect Dec. 13. the Vatican to further address the of New Ulm, undressed in front of “While this may cause some allegations was suspended in June two teenage boys at a hotel during pain, my hope is that this decision 2015 when Archbishop Nienstedt World Youth Day in Cologne, Ger- prompts further action by those resigned his office,” Archbishop many, in 2005. The three had been with authority over Archbishop Hebda said in the letter. “Thus, the caught in a rainstorm, and, accord- Nienstedt to resolve this question,” matter remains unresolved for the ing to the allegation, Archbishop Archbishop Hebda said in the letter, accusers, for Archbishop Nienst- Nienstedt invited the boys to his which also announced new steps edt and for the public. I share the room, where Archbishop Nienstedt the archdiocese is taking to minis- frustration that is felt by them, and undressed and then the boys un- ter to clergy sexual abuse survivors. believe this situation highlights the dressed in front of him before put- The action “is not intended to need for a better-defined process ting on hotel robes as they waited convey an indication or presump- and independent mechanism to re- for their clothes to dry.

12218-1221 ORDER YOURS TODAY! tion of guilt,” Archbishop Hebda solve allegations against bishops.” In a Dec. 14 statement, Archbish- Call: Deborah Sweeney said. The clarification of Archbish- While the 2014 investigation in- op Nienstedt called Archbishop 239-261-5555 ext. 330 or op Nienstedt’s local public ministry volved allegations of sexual mis- Hebda’s decision to remove him Email: [email protected] restrictions refers to a 2014 investi- conduct with adult males, the letter from ministry “appropriate,” given gation into allegations that he had pointed out an allegation against the archdiocese’s protocols, “even engaged in sexual misconduct with Archbishop Nienstedt involving though I am not currently practic- Build a Legacy with a personalized paver or facing stone! adults as a priest in Detroit and minors surfaced only after his res- ing public ministry in the Archdio- Rome, and as a bishop of New Ulm. ignation. cese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.” n Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS 12 Shooting in Brazilian cathedral leaves five dead, four injured LISE ALVES Father Jose Eduardo Meschiatti, that in the middle a man stood up, Catholic News Service administrator of the Archdiocese positioned himself in front of a cou- of Campinas, by Cardinal Pietro ple and began firing point-blank at SAO PAULO | A gunman opened Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, them. I saw the two shots.” fire inside a Brazilian church, killing Pope Francis expressed his sadness Rodrigues said he was seated in four people and injuring four others after hearing news of the attack and one of the last pews of the cathedral, before turning the gun on himself, “assured his solidarity and spiritual between the shooter and the main police said. comfort to the families who have doors. After the initial shots, Ro- The shooting occurred Dec. 11 lost their loved ones.” drigues remembers he ran out of the just as parishioners from Our Lady “The Holy Father invites every- church and continued to hear shots. of the Conception Cathedral in one, in front of this moment of sor- “I heard about 15 shots,” he said. Campinas, near Sao Paulo, were row, to find comfort and strength In a statement, the Archdiocese leaving a midday Mass. in the risen Jesus, asking God that of Campinas said the Catholic com- “I conducted the Mass at 12:15, at hope may not be lost in this hour of munity was shocked that such a the end of the Mass a person came trial and that forgiveness and love tragedy could occur within its ca- firing and made some victims, no- may prevail over hatred and ven- thedral. body could do anything, or help at geance,” Cardinal Parolin said. “We suffer with the people who all,” said Father Amauri Thomazzi Footage from security cameras at this moment mourn the death of Forensic workers carry a container with a body at the scene of a in an emotional video posted on his showed that the shooter entered the their friends, brothers and relatives. shooting Dec. 11 at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Campinas, Brazil. social media account hours after the church alone, sat on a rear bench in We ask everyone to pray for these Police said Euler Fernando Grandolpho opened fire in the cathedral, incident. the back for several minutes before families to find comfort and peace killing at least four people and injuring several others before the Police identified the gunman as turning around and firing at people in God,” the archdiocese said. 49-year-old turned the gun on himself after being shot by police. Euler Fernando Grandolpho, 49, of behind him. The cathedral was to reopen at (RICARDO LIMA, REUTERS | CNS) Valinhos, a nearby city in the dense- Pedro Rodriques was at the Mass noon Dec. 12 for a special Mass for ly populated state of Sao Paulo. Po- and watched as the gunman stood those who died. The four bodies are hospitalized in critical condition af- treated at a nearby hospital and re- lice said the gunman fired more up and began firing at people. scheduled to be brought to the ca- ter being shot twice in the chest and leased. than 20 shots before being cornered “I entered (the church) at the end thedral for viewing during the day abdomen. Another victim remains Police said the motive for the by officers near the altar and killing of Mass,” Rodrigues said. “People before burial. in observation after undergoing shooting was unclear and contin- himself. began to come to do the individual Of the four injured in the shoot- surgery to remove bullets from her ued to investigate the gunman’s In a telegram sent Dec. 12 to actions and suddenly (I) realized ing, an 84-year-old man remains torso and two other victims were background. n Council Concerns raised that climate mourns rulebook not ambitious enough JONATHAN LUXMOORE imperative to the conversation” on Catholic News Service the need to respond to the challeng- death of girl es global warming already poses to WARSAW, Poland | Catholic par- people in the world’s poorest coun- near border ticipants and observers criticized a tries. It was a perspective that rule- “lack of ambition” by government book negotiators discussed widely CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE negotiators at a U.N. conference on during talks that extended well into climate change that ended Dec. 15 the night of Dec. 15, more than a WASHINGTON | The death of a with agreement on a rulebook to day after the conference was to end. 7-year-old Guatemalan girl “rep- implement the 2015 Paris climate Another Catholic group, Brus- resents an egregious disregard for accord. The final document that sels-based CIDSE, welcomed the the safety and care of persons in the emerged from the 24th U.N. Con- final agreement, especially because custody of U.S. officials,” the Na- ference of Parties, or COP24, in an October report from the U.N. In- tional Council of Churches said. A woman holds a picture of Jakelin Caal, a 7-year-old Guatemalan girl Katowice, Poland, outlines a care- tergovernmental Panel on Climate The Washington-based orga- who died in U.S. custody after crossing illegally from Mexico to the U.S., ful balance among the needs and Change warned of “catastrophic nization said it joined “in prayer during a Dec. 15 protest. (JOSE LUIS GONZALEZ, REUTERS | CNS) concerns of the most developed consequences” if global warming for this girl’s family members who nations, emerging nations and exceeded 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit grieve her loss. reported. Border Patrol agents ad- could process them. They came in poor countries whose inhabitants this century. “We also pray for all of those ministered CPR and she was flown such a large crowd that it took our already are experiencing the effects However, CIDSE added the lack making the treacherous journey to a hospital in El Paso, Texas, where border patrol folks a couple times of climate change. “Many people of “solid financial commitments” across the desert and are reminded she later died. to get them all,” she said. “We gave expected a complete derailment and “strong mechanisms for reduc- of Abraham, Sarah, Mary, Joseph Officials said the girl initially immediate care. We’ll continue to of this conference, so the fact that ing greenhouse gas emissions” in and countless others who made appeared healthy and that an in- look into the situation. But again, I countries were able to agree on a the rulebook showed governments similar journeys in the light of terview raised no signs of trouble, cannot stress how dangerous this rulebook shows there’s still some were still failing to “reflect the ur- hope,” it said in a statement issued according to the news story. Her journey is when migrants choose to spirit of commitment,” Rebecca El- gency” and were “shying away from Dec. 14, the day news reports circu- Spanish-speaking father signed a come here illegally.” liott, communications director at their responsibility to act.” lated about the girl, identified by the form indicating she was in good The DHS inspector general said the Global Catholic Climate Move- “We are in a time of climate Guatemalan government as Jack- health, authorities said, but critics Dec. 14 it would investigate the cir- ment. emergency — to save our planet, we eline Caal, who died the first week of the Border Patrol and the Trump cumstances of the child’s death. “But they should have gone fur- will need to make drastic changes of December. administration later said the father In its statement, the National ther,” she added. “The church has in our policies and lifestyles,” the The Washington Post reported speaks a Mayan dialect that offi- Council of Churches urged Con- always stressed the importance of organization said in a statement that she and her father, Nery Caal, cials supposedly didn’t really un- gress to take up comprehensive solidarity, and this is what we’ll be Dec. 16. “While nobody expected 29, were taken into custody Dec. 6 derstand. immigration reform and called on working towards in future — for one conference to solve the climate around 10 p.m., south of Lordsburg, “It’s heart-wrenching, is what President Donald Trump “to end new ambitions to be placed on the crisis by itself, we did expect better New Mexico. They were among 163 it is. And my heart goes out to the policies that place persons in harm’s table, and new signs that countries than this — and we deserve better.” migrants who turned themselves in family, for all of DHS,” Secretary way as they seek relief from the cir- are committed to protecting vul- The rulebook sets out how gov- at the border. of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. cumstances that caused them to nerable people around the world.” ernments will measure, report and “Some seven hours later, she Nielsen said in an interview with leave their home countries.” An estimated 23,000 people, in- verify their emissions-cutting ef- was put on a bus to the nearest Bor- Fox News. This is just a very sad ex- “As we approach Christmas it is cluding a delegation from the Holy forts under the Paris agreement, der Patrol station but soon began ample of the dangers of this journey. heartbreaking to consider there are See, participated in the conference. which comes into force in 2020, but vomiting (and having seizures). By This family chose to cross illegally. many thousands of families in des- Elliott noted that Catholic rep- falls short of what scientists have the end of the two-hour drive, she “What happened here is that they perate need of the assistance of our resentatives, including the Vatican said is needed to rein in climate had stopped breathing,” the Post were 90 miles away from where we nation,” the council added. n contingent, had “brought a moral change. n 13 VATICAN NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019

CHURCH IN CHINA 2 underground bishops step down at Vatican’s request

CNA/EWTN NEWS Vatican Secretary of State, and from Bishop Guo voluntarily to accept a Cardinal Fernando Filoni, prefect position as coadjutor bishop under BEIJING, China | Two under- of the Congregation for the Evan- Bishop Zhan. This was also among ground bishops in China have gelization of Peoples, asking that he the conditions Chinese officials had agreed to step aside in favor of bish- give up his role as Bishop of Mind- proposed to Bishop Guo during his ops of the Chinese Patriotic Catho- ong in favor of Bishop Zhan. 2017 detention. lic Association, in the wake of a deal “Also according to the report of Bishop Guo told the New York signed between the Holy See and the priests of Mindong, Msgr. Celli Times in February that “we must the Chinese government. would have told Msgr. Guo that obey Rome’s decision,” and that AsiaNews reported Dec. 13 Pope Francis himself asks for this “our principle is that the Chinese Bishop Vincent Guo Xijin of Mind- gesture of obedience ‘and of sacri- Catholic Church must have a con- ong (Ningde) has agreed to become fice for the general situation of the nection with the Vatican; the con- auxiliary bishop and that Bishop Chinese Church’,” the news outlet nection cannot be severed.” Vincent Zhan Silu will become reported. But he also indicated that while Bishop of Mindong. The agreement AsiaNews also noted that in pre- “the Chinese government doesn’t was made at a meeting at the Di- vious cases in which a bishop of the say explicitly that we need to dis- aoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, CPCA was reconciled to the Holy connect” from Rome, “in some cir- in the presence of Archbishop Clau- See, he would become auxiliary cumstances it has such an implica- dio Maria Celli, president emeritus bishop to an existing bishop of the tion.” of the Pontifical Council for Social underground Church. In March, at the Chinese Com- Communications. Bishop Guo, 59, was detained by munist Party’s annual meeting, Bishop Joseph Guo Jincai of Chengde, China, and Coadjutor Bishop At the same meeting, Archbish- the Chinese authorities overnight Bishop Zhan told China’s Sing Tao John Baptist Yang Xiaoting of Yan'an, China, arrive for a session op Celli announced Bishop Peter in March. While he was released Daily: “There are no obstacles [to a of the Synod of Bishops on young people, the faith and vocational Zhuang Jianjian of Shantou will after only a short detention, he was China-Vatican deal] if everyone just discernment at the Vatican Oct. 8. (PAUL HARING | CNS) give way to Bishop Joseph Huang ordered not to officiate as a bishop thinks of the benefit of the church Bingzhang. Both Bishops Zhan and while saying Mass because he is not for the sake of peace.” Beijing, where he met separately three priests, one of whom Bishop Huang had been excommunicated, recognized by the government. Bishop Zhuang, 88, was asked with leaders of the Chinese Catholic Huang would choose as his vicar and were reconciled to the Holy He was taken away because he to retire in late 2017 by the Holy Patriotic Association, officials from general. “Bishop Zhuang could See as part of a September agree- refused to concelebrate with Bishop See, but he reportedly refused the China’s State Administration for not help his tears on hearing the ment between the Holy See and Zhan at a Chrism Mass. request at that time. He was con- Religious Affairs, and the Vatican demand,” Asia News’ source said, the People’s Republic of China. Ac- Bishop Guo was also detained secrated a bishop in 2006, with the delegation. explaining “it was meaningless to cording to AsiaNews, at the meeting ahead of Holy Week in 2017. approval of the Holy See. If Bishop Zhuang resigned, the appoint a vicar general, who is still Archbishop Celli gave Bishop Guo a In January, Asia News reported In December 2017 Bishop Holy See delegation reportedly said a priest that Bishop Huang could letter from Cardinal Pietro Parolin, that a Vatican delegation asked Zhuang was reportedly escorted to at that time, he could nominate remove him anytime.” n POPE TO VISIT UAE Belief in Trinity should lead to unity CINDY WOODEN Catholic News Service ‘All human beings want unity and desire it from the bottom of their hearts. Then why is it so VATICAN CITY | Faith in the living God should translate difficult to achieve if everyone desires it so much? into concrete expressions of love It is because we want unity of course, but unity and unity, especially within the church, Capuchin Father Raniero around our point of view.’ Cantalamessa told Pope Francis and leaders of the Roman Curia. — Father Raniero Cantalamessa “All human beings want unity and desire it from the bottom of Trinity, the living God, a commu- the husband defends and praises their hearts. Then why is it so dif- nity of love where absolute unity the wife before the children and ficult to achieve if everyone de- does not annul diversity, he said. strangers and in which the wife sires it so much? It is because we St. Paul, in his letters to the Ro- does the same for the husband” or want unity of course, but unity mans and to the Corinthians, tells when someone rejoices at anoth- around our point of view,” said the the early Christians that such a re- er’s “nomination for a certain post priest, who is preacher of the papal lationship is possible when he de- of honor — for example, in being household. scribes the community of believ- named a cardinal — as if he him- Offering the pope a reflection ers as being “parts of one another” self had been nominated.” Dec. 14, Father Cantalamessa con- and reminds them that they are When one puts the good of the tinued a series of meditations on “one body and one Spirit.” church first, the Capuchin said, what it should mean to believe in Unity within the body of Christ “then every charism and every a living God. In the human search is not simply about avoiding dis- honor present in the community for unity, he said, “our view seems putes, Father Cantalamessa said. will be yours, just as in a united so obvious, so reasonable, that we St. Paul said, “If one member family the success of one member are astounded that others do not suffers, all suffer together; if one makes all the others happy.” agree and insist instead on their member is honored, all rejoice Love “multiplies charisms and point of view. We even carefully lay together,” which means identify- makes the charisms of one per- out the path for others to come and ing with the “sickness, limitations, son the charisms of all,” he told join us where we are.” worries and even defects and sins” the pope and Curia officials. “I am Problems and tensions arise, of one another and trying “to walk aware that these things are easy to he said, because the other person in their shoes, as we say, to seek to say but hard to put into practice; it “is doing exactly the same thing” understand before judging.” is nonetheless good to know that, A Muslim prays inside Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, United and expecting everyone else to Every church and social situ- with the grace of God, they are pos- Arab Emirates. Pope Francis is scheduled to visit the mosque during change. ation would be transformed if sible and that some souls have suc- his visit to the United Arab Emirates Feb. 3-5. (AHMED JADALLAH, Christians must strive to model Christians tried to live that way, he ceeded in practicing them and do REUTERS | CNS) their relationships on that of the said. Think of “a family in which so for us in the church as well.” n Dec. 21, 2018 - Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic VATICAN NEWS 14 True Christmas celebrates Jesus, Pope: Death penalty is fruit of who is tender, humble, pope says laws lacking humanity, mercy JUNNO AROCHO ESTEVES and dignity of the person” and to Catholic News Service CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE commit the church to working toward its abolition worldwide. VATICAN CITY | The death The development of the VATICAN CITY | With Christ- penalty is an inhumane form of church’s teaching, he said, is con- mas just over a week away, visitors punishment that ignores the pri- sistent with “defending the digni- came to St. Peter’s Square with their macy of mercy in the name of jus- ty of human life” and is a step that Baby Jesus figurines for a tradition- tice, Pope Francis said. all countries should follow. al blessing by the pope. Meeting a delegation from “As has happened in the heart Many children came with fig- the International Commission of the church, a similar commit- urines for their family Nativity against the Death Penalty Dec. 17, ment must be made by all na- scene, others held delicate sculp- the pope set aside his prepared re- tions,” the pope said. “The sover- tures, and one group set a giant marks and spoke off the cuff, the eign right of all countries to define statue of the Baby Jesus on top of Vatican said. their legal system cannot be exer- stacks of hay bales. “All the joy in In his prepared text, which cised in contradiction with their a crib,” said the banner in front of An audience member holds a figurine of baby Jesus as Pope Francis was handed to the delegation, obligations under international the display. leads his Sunday Angelus prayer. (GIUSEPPE LAMI, EPA | CNS) the pope said his recent revision law, nor can it represent an obsta- Blessing the statues after reciting of the Catechism of the Catholic cle to the universal recognition of the Angelus prayer Dec. 16, Pope Jesus, the Emmanuel, is “God People of faith should know they Church’s teaching against capital human dignity.” Francis told the little ones, “Dear with us,” and his presence is the need not be anxious or feel despair, punishment was an important Countries that have not abol- children, may you feel wonder source of joy, Pope Francis said. He but need to “present to God our step in recognizing that the death ished capital punishment but when you gather in your homes in came not to punish but to forgive requests, our needs, our concerns penalty was “a consequence of have adopted a moratorium on prayer before the Nativity, gazing at and this leads people to feel joyful with prayers and supplications.” a mentality of the time — more executions also should ban the Baby Jesus.” and full of praise. “The awareness that when in dif- legalistic than Christian — that death penalty as a possible pun- To see God is to feel amazement, God wants to redeem and save ficulty we can always turn to the sanctified the value of laws lack- ishment for crime, Pope Francis “wonder at the great mystery of God those whom he loves, the pope said, Lord, and that he never rejects our ing in humanity and mercy.” said. made man. And the Holy Spirit will underlining that God’s love is “in- invocations, is a great reason for “The church could not remain A temporary moratorium, he put humility, tenderness and the cessant” and tender like a father’s joy,” he said. in a neutral position in the face of said, “cannot be lived by the con- goodness of Jesus in your hearts,” love for his child. There are no worries or fears that today’s demands to reaffirm per- demned person as a mere prolon- he said. “Jesus is good, Jesus is ten- Just as Mary was called to wel- can ever “take away from us the sonal dignity,” the pope said. gation of the waiting period for his der, Jesus is humble. This is the real come and bring the Christ child serenity that comes from knowing Pope Francis ordered a revi- or her execution.” Christmas!” he said. into the world, people today are that God always lovingly guides sion of the catechism’s paragraph He also implored countries Before praying the Angelus on also called to welcome the Gospel our lives,” the pope said. “Even in on capital punishment, 2267, in that continue executing prison- what is known as Gaudete (Rejoice) and so that it can “become flesh” the midst of problems and suffer- August to assert that “the death ers to adopt a moratorium with Sunday, the pope explained why the and come into the world in people’s ing, this certainty nourishes hope penalty is inadmissible because the goal of abolishing “this cruel church is invited to rejoice. actual lives. and courage.” n it is an attack on the inviolability form of punishment.” n

We extend our warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a New Year full of happiness and success.

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From all the staff of the FLORIDACatholic 15 SUNDAY WORD and SCRIPTURE Florida Catholic Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Is there a worthy Nativity scene to welcome Jesus? Sunday, Dec. 23 so much about the importance of of Christmas. However, the most of the Visitation. Mary offers us the Elizabeth and the child in her Fourth Sunday of Advent maintaining the truly Christian important thing is whether the Na- best model of how we should pre- womb —John the Baptist — re- Mi 5:1-4a; Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19; Heb sense of Christmas, we are late in tivity of our hearts is ready; if we are pare to receive her divine Son. What spond with joy at the arrival of 10:5-10; Lk 1:39-45 catching up to the crowd that seems like a manger ready to receive Jesus. does she do after the An- Mary and the divine Child to want to celebrate it? Have we prepared a worthy Nativity nunciation? Does she stay she carries within. We too Since November, radio stations In fact, what we are doing, or we scene to welcome the Christ Child? in Nazareth, telling every- have been called to bring have been playing Christmas car- should be doing, is preparing to In the days of this season of hope, one what has happened the joy of Christ to others. ols, and stores have been decorated celebrate Christmas properly. All I encourage you to ask this ques- to her, so that they will be We will be ready to wel- for Christmas. You’ve been able the rest is in vain, unless we are tion and respond to it in prayer. If impressed with her, since come him at Christmas, to watch a Christmas movie on prepared to receive in our hearts the answer is still, “no,” then for- God has considered her so if we have brought him to Hallmark every day for weeks. Of him about whom the letter to the get about any last-minute shop- special? No. Instead, Mary those who most need his course, all our homes are already Hebrews refers in the passage that ping and cards and decorations goes to her elderly cousin love. decorated for Christmas. However, we will hear this fourth Sunday of and cooking. Focus on what really Elizabeth, a several days’ At St. Vincent de Paul when you go to Mass this Sunday, Advent: “behold, I come to do your matters. The finishing touches on journey away, to help her SUNDAY Regional Seminary, there even if your parish church already will, O God.” our Nativity scene may be to go to in her pregnancy. The one WORD is a statue of a pregnant has the Christmas trees up (with A helpful image for the last days confession; to call a friend or family who is readiest to receive Blessed Mother. A plaque Christmas Eve being on Monday, of Advent is to think of a Nativity member with whom we had a fight; the gift of Christ at Christ- Father at the base of the statue there would be no way to get ready scene with an empty manger. Our to find a way to do something for the mas is the one that gives Alfredo speaks to all of us in these otherwise), the spirit of the day is hearts should be like that manger, poor; or simply to spend more time this gift more perfectly, Hernández final days of Advent: “You still one of waiting for Christmas. ready to receive Jesus. I hope that in prayer. even before Christmas, by are also bearers of my Son.” Hopefully, you won’t hear any you have been preparing through The liturgy for the fourth Sun- taking Jesus and his love to This Christmas may we Christmas carols at Mass. Doesn’t prayer, meditations and readings, day focuses on the role of Mary in the home of Zechariah and Eliza- be prepared to receive Jesus, as we it seem odd that if we Catholics talk acts of charity for the celebration the coming of Jesus, with the story beth. bear him and his love to others. n Church is a family called to have confidence in God

Sunday, Dec. 30 ally, but came to sanctify each one of Christ to the world. In the words For the Sunday Word of Jan. 6, Church. As important, though, as Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary of our relationships, especially the of St. John: “Those who keep his please visit www.theflorida bringing their children to live the and Joseph relationships that bind us most in- commandments remain in him, catholic.org, starting Jan. 5. life of the Church in the building Sir 3:2-6, 12-14; Ps 128:1-5; Col 3:12-21; timately and make us who we are, and he in them.” If the Church is to that bears the Church’s name — Lk 2:41-52 our family relationships. be a credible witness to Jesus, her and thus we also call church — par- Jesus came to live with Mary first task must be to love concretely, family — and of human life itself ents are charged with being open to Young and middle-aged par- and Joseph — “obedient to them” especially those who look to the — the Church is not trying to be the action of the Holy Spirit, active ents often experience a moment of — in order to make each of us like Church to protect them, first of all backwards and block progress. The in them by baptism and confirma- dread when they find themselves our heavenly Father, and to make children and the vulnerable. We Church, like Jesus in the temple, tion, and in a special way through saying or doing familiar things: “I our families like the Holy Trinity. pray that during the course of the is in the Father’s house, about the the sacrament of marriage. The sound just like my parents.” Even St. John says, in his first letter, “See coming year, especially at the gath- Father’s business. If it was part of Holy Spirit makes each Christian without being a parent, I have had what love the Father has bestowed ering in February at the Vatican on Jesus’ plan to make each family like family into what St. John Paul II that experience a number of times on us that we may be called the the abuse crisis, our bishops may the Trinity — like the Holy Family; called on many occasions, the do- when my nephews and nieces children of God.” We act as God’s find the wisdom and courage to if it was part of Jesus’ plan to make mestic Church — the Church of the were horsing around, and I came children when we live out the very respond firmly and lovingly to the each of us like his Father — our Fa- home. out with, “¡El retozo siempre acaba same love that is the essence of God, dark scandal of abuse by those who ther — then it is an essential part of May the Holy Spirit help us in this mal!” (“Horseplay always ends up when we “love one another just as are called to bring the light of Christ the Church’s mission to protect the year that is about to begin to imitate badly!”) — something I heard from he commanded us.” to the world. dignity of marriage and the family, the best aspects of our earthly par- my mother countless times as I was The Church herself is a family, The Church needs to speaks up as well as to protect the dignity of ents. May he help us to live in the growing up. and our family has suffered greatly to protect our families, against so each human person. family of the Church and in our It’s a scary thought to realize that this past year. We are called, as many attacks that they continue to The first reading and the Gospel own families the love of the Holy we’ve become more like our par- a family, to “have confidence in experience. The bond of marriage today both show us parents tak- Family. May he make each of us be ents than we ever thought possible. God,” knowing that if we do, we is treated cheaply today. Many no ing their children to God’s temple. more and more like our Father in For most of us, though, it should will “receive from him whatever longer sees any reason for young Hannah and Elkanah take Samuel heaven. n be a compliment to be compared we ask.” On this beautiful feast and or old to “wait for marriage,” so to to the temple of Shiloh, and Mary to our parents. On this feast of the on this last weekend of the year, I speak, or to defend the meaning and Joseph take Jesus to the temple Father Hernández is academic Holy Family, we recognize that Je- invite you to pray that the Church of marriage as being between one of Jerusalem. All Christian parents dean and Director of Liturgy at St. sus, on coming into the world, did will be able to be ever more faith- man and one woman, for life. In hear the call in this Christmas sea- Vincent de Paul Regional Semi- not come to sanctify us individu- ful to her mission, to bring the love her defense of marriage and the son to bring their children to the nary in Boynton Beach. SCRIPTURE readings

Friday, Dec. 21 Monday, Dec. 24 Tuesday, Dec. 25 Thursday, Dec. 27 Sunday, Dec. 30 Wednesday, Jan. 2 Saturday, Jan. 5 Tuesday, Jan. 8 Saturday, Jan. 12 St. Peter Canisius, 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, Nativity of the Lord Feast of St. John, Feast of the Holy Memorial of Sts Memorial of St John 1 Jn 4:7-10; Ps 72:1-2, 1 Jn 5:14-21; Ps doctor of the Church 14a, 16; Ps 89:2-3, (Christmas) Mass apostle and evan- Family Basil the Great and Neumann, bishop 3-4, 7-8; Mk 6:34-44 149:1-2, 3-4, 5-6a and Sg 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14- 4-5, 27 and 29; Lk during the day gelist Sir 3:2-6, 12-14; Ps Gregory Nazianzen 1 Jn 3:11-21; Ps 9b; Jn 3:22-30 1:67-79 Wednesday, Jan. 9 18a; Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, Is 52:7-10; Ps 98:1-6; 1 Jn 1:1-4; Ps 97:1-2, 128:1-5; Col 3:12-21; 1 Jn 2:22-28; Ps 98:1- 100:1b-2, 3, 4, 5; Jn Sunday, Jan. 13 20-21; Lk 1:39-45 Nativity of the Lord Heb 1:1-6; Jn 1:1-18 5-6, 11-12; Jn 20:1-8 Lk 2:41-52 4; Jn 1:19-28 1:43-51 1 Jn 4:11-18; Ps (Christmas) vigil 72:1-2, 10, 12-13; Mk Baptism of the Lord Saturday, Dec. 22 Mass Wednesday, Dec. 26 Friday, Dec. 28 Monday, Dec. 31 Thursday, Jan. 3 Sunday, Jan. 6 6:45-52 Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1- 1 Sm 1:24-28; (Ps) 1 Is 62:1-5; Ps 89:4-5, Feast of St. Stephen, Feast of the Holy In- 1 Jn 2:18-21; Ps 1 Jn 2:29–3:6; Ps 98:1, The Epiphany of the Thursday, Jan. 10 2, 3-4, 3, 9-10; Acts Sm 2:1, 4-7, 8abcd; 16-17, 27, 29; Acts first martyr nocents, martyrs 96:1-2, 11-12, 13; Jn 3cd-4, 5-6; Jn 1:29-34 Lord 10:34-38; Lk 3:15-16, Lk 1:46-56 13:16-17, 22-25; Mt 1:1-18 1 Jn 4:19–5:4; Ps 21-22 Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59; 1 Jn 1:5—2:2; Ps Friday, Jan. 4 Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:1-2, 1:1-25 or 1:18-25 72:1-2, 14 and 15bc, Sunday, Dec. 23 Ps 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16-17; 124:2-3, 4-5, 7-8; Mt Tuesday, Jan. 1 7-8, 10-11, 12-13; Eph Mt 10:17-22 2:13-18 Memorial of St 3:2-3a, 5-6; Mt 2:1-12 17; Lk 4:14-22 Fourth Sunday of Solemnity of the Elizabeth Ann Friday, Jan. 11 Advent Saturday, Dec. 29 Blessed Virgin Mary Seton, religious Monday, Jan. 7 Mi 5:1-4a; Ps 80:2-3, 1 Jn 2:3-11; Ps 96:1-3, Nm 6:22-27; Ps 67:2- 1 Jn 3:7-10; Ps 98:1, 1 Jn 3:22–4:6; Ps 1 Jn 5:5-13; Ps 15-16, 18-19; Heb 5-6; Lk 2:22-35 3, 5, 6, 8; Gal 4:4-7; Lk 7-8, 9; Jn 1:35-42 2:7bc-8, 10-12a; Mt 147:12-13, 14-15, 10:5-10; Lk 1:39-45 2:16-21 4:12-17, 23-25 19-20; Lk 5:12-16 Dec. 21, 2018-Jan. 10, 2019 Florida Catholic CLASSIFIEDS 16

Graduation KEVIN CARLOCK May 1, 2018 DEVOTIONAL SHARE PRAYERS Help Wanted Accessibility Thank you YOUR SPECIAL Position Wanted HOLY SPIRIT Antiques OCCASIONS! 60th Anniversary Real Estate for Sale Cemetery Plots The Carlock family in Central and South Florida congratulates Kevin Carlock ALICE & PHIL on his May 1, 2018 graduation from Floridamarried May 10, 1958 Roommate Wanted International University in Miami. He Services earned a degree in mechanical engineering. Honor the moments Kevin will soon be relocating across the country to begin his new job but Vacation Rentals Prayers Answered in your life or he will be forever in our hearts. We’ll miss you! Caregiving Services ♥♥ ... and more! a loved one’s. GREAT JOB, KEVIN! PRAYER FOR APPLICATION ♥ ♥ TO THE HOLY SPIRIT You who solve all problems, who light all HELP WANTED HELP WANTED Sixty years ago, Phil married Alice in 75 words and a color a beautiful ceremony at St. Michael’s roads so that I can attain my goals. You OUTSIDE SALES (F/T) – FlynnO’Hara, a leading OFFICE MANAGER (F/T) – The Florida Catho- Catholic Church in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The Lord blessed both of them with six who give the divine gift to forgive and retailer offering highest-quality school uniforms lic newspaper is seeking a detailed-oriented, children - Liz, Mary, Ann, Pat, Mike and forget all the evil against me. And that in and accessories since 1972, seeks an outside multitasker as our Office Manager. This position is photo, only $45! Tom - and thirteen grandchildren. sales representative. Successful candidate should responsible for efficient operations of the Florida Their love continues to sustain them and all instances of my life you are with me. I their faith in the Lord, we know, will bless want in this short prayer to thank you for be able to manage client base and develop new Catholic while maintaining budget goals, as them with many more happy years! all things and to confirm once again that I sales to schools within Florida. Candidate should well as working with vendors and putting in ♥♥ LOVE YOU ALL! be self-confident with strong interpersonal skills, place procedures for the Information Technol- ♥ never want to be separated from you ever ♥ self-starter, goal-oriented with a demonstrated ogy Systems, and maintaining office efficiency by Call MIKE CARLOCK at and in spite of all material illusion I wish track record in a highly competitive environment. planning and implementing office systems, layouts, to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you Responsibilities: manage and service existing ac- and equipment procurement. 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Only your initials should presentations by studying type of sale or prospect; to five years business and/or office management appear at the bottom. focus sales efforts by studying competitors and experience required; bachelor’s degree in Business competitive influences; keep mgmt. informed by Administration or related area preferred and/or PRAYER FOR APPLICATION submitting activity and results reports, such as equivalent experience and a working knowledge of FLORIDACatholic TO THE HOLY SPIRIT daily call reports, weekly work plans, and monthly Microsoft Word, Excel and Quickbooks. Experience and annual territory analyses; monitor competition with software associated with publications helpful. You who solve all by gathering current marketplace info. on pricing, Email cover letter and résumé to aborowski@ Advertise in problems, who products, new products, delivery schedules, mer- thefloridacatholic.org. No phone calls, please. light all roads so chandising techniques, etc.; recommend changes that I can attain in products, service and policy by evaluating results REAL ESTATE FOR SALE my goals. You and competitive developments; resolve customer CATHOLIC complaints by investigating problems, developing who give the divine gift solutions, preparing reports and making recom- VENICE, FLA., VENETIAN FALLS – Gated to forgive and forget mendations to mgmt.; maintain professional and Community, 55+. 2BR/2Ba. w/den, 2-car ga- SCHOOLS WEEK all the evil against me. technical knowledge by attending educational rage. Call for list of amenities. $279,900. Call And that in all instances workshops, reviewing professional publications, Caron Realty, Inc. at 941-925-3300. of my life you are with personal networking and participation in profes- Publishes January 25 me. 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Catholic Schools Week NOVENA TO Publishes: Jan. 25 ST. JUDE THADDEUS May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout Summer Planning the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of Publishes: March 29 miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, helper of the hopeless, pray for us.

Graduation Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days. By the eighth day, your prayer will be Publishes: June 7 answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. - CF

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