Florida Catholic Staff Er Pantry Closed Due to Financial Dignity and Not Feel Like I Don’T De- Stop, Right Here.” Staff Is Also Bilin- Well Said

WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 | Volume 81, Number 2 &Christmas GUATEMALAN BISHOPS’ MINISTRY Bad idea to send asylum-seekers to jungle DAVID AGREN rates double the 22 murders per 100,000 Catholic News Service people in Guatemala. Migrants from Carib- bean countries such as Cuba and Haiti and MEXICO CITY | The Guatemalan bish- from other continents often fly to countries in ops’ migrant ministry has rejected talk of the Central and South America, then travel north U.S. and Guatemalan governments sending to the United States, where they hope to seek asylum-seekers to a remote and rugged jun- asylum. gle region rife with drug cartel activities. The Analysts say the United States exerts enor- bishops said conditions there are not secure mous influence on Central American coun- for Guatemalan citizens, much less migrants. tries, resulting in their quick compliance on In a Nov. 18 statement, the migrant min- signing migration agreements, even though istry raised alarm with a proposal to send none of the nations is ready to receive asylum- planeloads of asylum-seekers from the Unit- seekers. ed States to an airport in Peten department, “Even if they had a dramatic drop in the near the border with Belize and far from the homicide rate, the gang presence is still really capital of what is considered a highly central- high, extortion is really high,” said Rick Jones, ized country with a long history of ignoring its migration adviser at Catholic Relief Services hinterlands. in El Salvador. “If you can’t protect your own Asylum-seekers would arrive in Peten as citizens, how do you expect to protect third- part of a “safe third country” agreement. Such party nationals?” an agreement would force migrants traveling The Guatemalan migrant ministry noted through Guatemala, who wish to apply for in its statement, “The humanitarian asylum asylum, to do so in the impoverished country Migrants form a human chain to cross the river from Guatemala to Mexico in October. system in Guatemala (if we can say there is rather than the United States. The U.S. gov- The Guatemalan bishops' migrant ministry has rejected talk of the U.S. and Guatemalan one) has failed.” ernment has forged similar agreements with governments sending asylum seekers from third countries to a remote and rugged Central American countries have histori- Honduras and El Salvador with the goal of jungle region rife with drug cartel activities. (LEAH MILLS, REUTERS | CNS) cally registered some asylum claims over the creating a bottleneck for U.S.-bound migrants years, usually from people fleeing violence in in Central America -- or, as the migrant min- airport in Peten -- which mostly serves tour- secrecy by outgoing President Jimmy Mo- neighboring countries or conflicts further to istry posited, “a strategy to push the United ists visiting the Mayan ruins at Tikal -- ac- rales, a former TV clown battered by accusa- the south. States border further south and deny access cording to The Washington Post. Local me- tions of corruption and ineptitude. The migrant ministry estimated some 800 to its territory and the humanitarian asylum dia reported Guatemalan Interior Minister Proponents of the deal say the country did asylum-seekers and refugees were present in process.” Enrique Degenhart said details of asylum- not have a choice but to sign, because U.S. the country, but said, “The Guatemalan state “It’s undeniable, the interest, the pressure seekers from El Salvador and Honduras being President Donald Trump had threatened to has been oblivious, indifferent, lacking politi- and threats of the United States president sent to Guatemala remain unclear. cancel visas and slap tariffs on Guatemalan cal will and without functional structures to so that countries in the region turn into safe Sending asylum-seekers to Peten would exports and tax remittances. But critics in the receive, attend to and insert into community third countries. We remind people that we are present difficulties, migrant advocates say, church accuse the president of acquiescing to life those persons who flee their countries the most violent region which is not at war,” since the region is at least an eight-hour drive protect himself in the future. (Nicaragua, Honduras and El Salvador) due the bishops’ statement continued. from the asylum office in Guatemala City and “If there isn’t a quality of life here for Gua- to violence.” “Peten does not have the ability nor the in- just one migrant shelter serves the region. temalans, how are we going to see refugees Marco Castro, a lawyer at the Scalabrinian- frastructure at this time to welcome, protect The migrant ministry noted that some of from other countries arrive here?” said Jesuit run migrant shelter in Guatemala City, said and integrate asylum-seekers and refugees,” the Guatemalans forced to flee the region in Father Miquel Cortes, Guatemalan director of many asylum-seekers in Guatemala abandon it added. the 1980s civil war still have not been reinte- the Faith and Joy education centers. the process due to difficulties in applying, a Under a Trump administration ruling Nov. grated into their communities after returning The United States, he added, “found this lack of governmental support and an inabil- 18, beginning in December, the U.S. will have from abroad. government in a moment of weakness and ity to support themselves, because they never a new screening process to determine if the Guatemala signed the safe third country needing to assure its impunity.” receive the proper work documents. U.S. or Guatemala will hear the case for an agreement with the United States over the The United States has subsequently signed “The problem is people get tired of strug- asylum-seeker. summer. Polls showed Guatemalans disap- similar migration accords with El Salvador gling,” Castro said. “If they don’t get an in- Asylum-seekers could start arriving at an prove of the agreement, which was struck in and Honduras -- countries with homicide come in order to subsist ... they give up.” n

ORLANDO DIOCESE PALM BEACH DIOCESE VENICE DIOCESE Local market helps feed Former NFLer speaks to kids Annual Mass honors hungry in community about sports and life veterans of all ages WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 FLORIDACatholic ORLANDO DIOCESE

Catholic Volunteer of Florida Maria Gomez Aguilar helps a client select Father Ralph DuWell blesses the new Catholic Charities of Central Florida Agape Mission Market in Rosemont on Nov. 6 with CCCF President groceries. Opening week for the market Gary Tester, Chief Operating Officer David Ell and Manager of Mission Engagement Alice Nolan. (PHOTOS BY GLENDA MEEKINS | FC) served 17 households and 36 individuals. Market helps feed the hungry in community

GLENDA MEEKINS the making. After Brother’s Keep- okay about going to maintain that we are serving, they can make one what this market does,” Father Du- of the Florida Catholic staff er pantry closed due to financial dignity and not feel like I don’t de- stop, right here.” Staff is also bilin- Well said. “It’s a way for us to give strain, Father DuWell approached serve it,” she said. “It’s hope. It’s gual. to the community because the ORLANDO | Catholic Chari- Gary Tester, president of Catholic choice.” Tester expects the new Rose- community gives to us. As a pas- ties of Central Florida dedicated Charities of Central Florida (CCCF), “The thing that makes the Mis- mont market to draw clients away tor who looks for tithes, treasure and opened its third Agape Mis- to see how the two could “harmo- sion Market unique is that the front from CCCF headquarters off Semo- and talent, for us to be able to give sion Market in the Rosemont area nize ministries” to meet the needs end is a choice pantry,” Tester said. ran Boulevard and that’s perfectly back — that’s exactly what this is.” of Orlando, Nov. 6. After months of those left unserved. “St. Charles “At most pantries, we put what we okay with him. “Unlike previous He recalled Father Richard Trout, of searching for the right space to has always had a pantry and thrift have in a bag and you get it. Here, years with ministry, we’re trying to Vicar Forane of the Central Dean- meet the area needs, the new loca- store of some sort, even when it was you get to walk folks around and be where they are instead of them ery South, saying God will ask us tion stands in a strip mall on the the Cathedral,” Father DuWell said. they can choose whatever their coming to us. That’s why this is what we did for the “least of my corner of Clarcona Ocoee Road “We still have food donations and family wants within the amount beautiful.” brothers” when we get to heaven. and Orange Blossom Trail. As the people who want to volunteer.” provided … Here, we have hygiene Strategic needs are being as- “When God asks me, ‘did you market was being blessed, the first Julie Yetter, CCCF senior direc- items as well, like toilet paper. We’ll sessed in the hopes of opening oth- feed the hungry, give drink to the clients walked in. tor of operations, helped design the also have an office for a family er markets in Lakeland, another in thirsty, clothe the naked…?’ I can Father Ralph DuWell, pastor of market. Rustic wood-clad walls, stability case manager, financial Orlando and hopefully in Palm Bay say, ‘Yes, I did.’ And He will say, St. Charles Borromeo Parish, con- crates and bins, and little signs of counseling, budgeting, and we’ll or south Brevard County. ‘Come on into heaven,” said Father gratulated the crowd amidst beau- hope and prayer give it a warm at- also start putting an immigra- “Jesus is the fulfillment of the DuWell with a smile. tiful produce stands, shelves full of mosphere. “I put myself in the cli- tion official out here. So if we have love. Take all the commandments, Agape Mission Market at Rose- breads, canned foods and cereal. ent’s shoes. I think, where would I families that need help with immi- all the rules, and it comes down to mont is open Wednesdays and He noted the market was a year in want to go and where would I feel gration, based on the area which love God and love neighbor. That’s Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. n Women encouraged to go beyond at conference

GLENDA MEEKINS sion and worth. Bean spoke of the timing wise and where I’m at in Danielle intimate relationship with God, my life, I feel it’s really applicable. Bean shares ORLANDO | Author, blogger for which women were uniquely I’m preparing to get married, so how the women of and talk show host Danielle Bean created, using music, video, spiri- it’s really been beneficial to hear the Old caught the attention of those tual reflection, journaling, group I’m worthy enough.” Larrabee Testament gathered for “Go beyond! You are prayer, and small group discus- also noted the conference helped teach enough!” women’s conference at sion. her to find peace with recent work others Holy Family Parish in Orlando, Sarah Larrabee was visiting stress. She says she left knowing about Nov. 16. Through her warm per- Orlando for her bridal shower, but she’s smart enough and equipped worth, sonality and engaging presenta- says she knew she had to make enough to handle whatever comes identity and tion, young and not so young left time for this conference when her her way. mission. uplifted and empowered. friends mentioned it. “I feel like Hosted by the Secretariat for (NOELANI The day retreat focused on what God’s got a plan for me to get this Laity, Family and Life of the Dio- PARYS | FC) the women of the Old Testament message even if I’m all the way cese would be a great way to con- teach about women, their mis- from Washington,” she said. “Just tinue on that journey.” n Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY A2

et us give thanks to the Father, who has made you fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ‘L ones in light. — Col 1:12 FLORIDA Be aware of God’s presence Catholic My Sisters and Brothers in men of his time and indeed like DIOCESE OF ORLANDO Christ: the average men of today, who do Vol. 81, No. 2 When St. John Henry Newman not simply exclude the existence of heard that someone said he was a God, but consider it as something 50 East Robinson St. saint, he chided the “messenger” uncertain, something with no es- P.O. Box 1800 Orlando, FL 32802-1800 and said, “I have no tendency to sential role to play in their lives.” 407-246-4800 Fax 407-246-4942 be a saint.” Throughout his life, St. In his conversion, Pope Emeritus John Henry Newman thought him- Benedict XVI continues, “New- PUBLISHER self to be far away from the ideal of man recognized that it is exactly Bishop John Noonan holiness. Yet, his life, from the other way round: that the age of 15 when he had God and the soul, man’s DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Jennifer Drow his “first conversion,” was spiritual identity, consti- [email protected] orienting himself toward tute what is genuinely real, God, calling God the cen- what counts ... We are all WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER ter of his life. in constant need of such Glenda Meekins Awareness of God’s conversion: then we are [email protected] presence is a gift of faith. on the right path.” 407-246-4808 It is not enough to want to Bishop The Solemnity of Our To submit a request for news coverage be good or to do good or Lord Jesus Christ, King of in the Diocese of Orlando, email news@ to follow our conscience. John orlandodiocese.org. Noonan the Universe celebrated First, we have to be aware on Sunday, November 24, • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: of God’s presence. Then, the last Sunday of our li- Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, all that we are becomes turgical year, is about our or customerservice@theflorida an orientation toward God. I think conversion to God; it is about our catholic.org of our closeness to God like the recognition that no matter how rotation of the sun. As the sun high on the earthly totem pole, Notify us of address changes (temporary or permanent) as soon as possible. Please strengthens or darkens our day, whether in the Church or business change your address online at www. we find ourselves closer to the light or politics or family, none of us can thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at and perhaps warmer or we notice claim to be God. God’s power is in 1-888-275-9953. the sun setting and darkness pre- service to our human dignity. His vails. If we orient ourselves toward governance is the fullness of love • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at God, we easily find the center of and the perpetual vigilance of our 407-373-0075 or that relationship and its burgeon- well-being. We are invited to part- [email protected] • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at ing warmth. If we step away from ner with God in this service. God’s 1-888-275-9953, or our direction within God’s light, invitation is personal, written by [email protected] the relationship dims. His hand to you. Jesus shows us how to be in re- Someone sent me a card that State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite lationship with God. He claims no read, “God is still here. It is we who G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; power except that of the servant of have walked away.” As we go with Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 God’s will. He invites us to be in rejoicing to the house of the Lord communion with Him as servants this coming Advent season, let us EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: of God’s will. St. John Newman’s continue the journey beyond one Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade motto was ‘holiness rather than day or any season. Let the saints Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez peace’. His aim was to overcome be our guide to holiness. Let us Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu any form of false peace and to lead utter Mary’s YES with humility to Office Manager: Kristen Maheu Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko a life in conformity with the Gos- bring His light to the world. His Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael pel. Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI light does not rotate from bright Carlock talked about St. John Newman’s to some other lesser degree, but is The kingship of Jesus is depicted in a stained-glass window at St. Advertising Graphic Designer: living through, with and in God. enduring. Francis de Sales Church in Patchogue, N.Y. The feast of Christ the Michael Jimenez Until his moment of conversion, May we accept this eternal invi- King, celebrated on the last Sunday of each liturgical year, is observed Have a comment/want more info/have “Newman thought like the average tation to know and do God’s will. n Nov. 24 in 2019. (GREGORY A. SHEMITZ | CNS) a story suggestion? Leave your feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; click reader feedback link in the top menu.

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GLENDA MEEKINS of the Florida Catholic staff

WINTER HAVEN | It was a gorgeous Florida day as veterans, family, friends and parishioners gathered at St. Matthew Parish’s Cemetery in Winter Haven to remember those lost in battle, our living heroes and those who will continue to fight for our freedom. Father Nicholas O’Brien, pastor, celebrated Mass amidst flags representing the various armed services with the columbarium garden’s large crucifix as a backdrop and focal point—a vivid reminder of the cost of freedom. Members of every U.S. branch of the military were present — Army, Navy, Ma- rines, Air Force and Coast Guard. Visiting Deacon Warren Ru- tan of the Diocese of Rochester, New York, joined the Marines at 18, three years after the end of World War II. He served four years aboard the U.S.S. Albany CA 123 and became a sergeant. The 90-year-old said the music during the Eucharistic celebration was particularly moving for him. As “America the Beautiful” rang through the garden, he reflect- ed on Father O’Brien’s homily, which spoke of the gift of service. The deacon thought of a military Pastor Father Nicholas O’Brien celebrates Mass amidst flags representing the various armed services with the St. Matthew Parish columbarium chaplain, a Catholic priest who garden’s large crucifix as a backdrop and focal point—a vivid reminder of the cost of freedom. often invited the young Marine to talk as they passed by the mess see so many veterans and even hall. They would share and dis- some wives who have lost their cuss, as the priest gently planted husbands there to honor them. It seeds of faith. The deacon con- made me feel really good to see so verted to Catholicism many years many Catholics take this, not just later, just before his 19th wedding as a calling as a patriot, but as a anniversary. calling to do what they feel is right Others joined the military dur- to defend the nation and to reflect ing very trying times. In 1969, on the sacrifices people made for Arthur Ratcliffe was 21, and had their country.” just finished college. He knew he Skipper Deas, a 20-year veteran would be drafted for the Vietnam of the Navy, was a senior chief War and most men were drafted electrician (surface warfare). He into the Army. Although he had no said, he joined the Navy at age 17 issues with the Army, he wanted “as an act of defiance.” Both his to broaden his choices. biological father and stepfather “There was a tremendous de- were former Marines and always mand for people who were eligible spoke of the hardships of Paris to become pilots in the Air Force Island. After serving two tours in and Navy. I actually applied to Vietnam, Deas may have recon- both,” he said. “And the Air Force sidered which might have been came through just before the the better choice. Army drafted me.” “I can appreciate these things a Serving primarily in the United lot more because, when we came States, Ratcliffe became a lieuten- home from Vietnam, we were ant colonel, a commander pilot not welcomed. If they had been and instructor for the AC 130 gun- over there and had to send them ship out of Thailand in 1974-75. in body bags home…,” he paused Deacon Warren Rutan, left, and retired Lt. Col. Art Ratcliffe receive communion at the Veteran’s Day “After spending 20 years in the fighting back the emotion— Mass at St. Matthew Parish Cemetery, Nov. 11. (PHOTOS BY RANDY HALE | FC) service … I lost several people “people would get the idea.” I was associated with and who Deas is a longtime parishio- “I never went to sleep without As he took in the morning, he and is grateful that people still were close to me in aircraft ac- ner at St. Matthew and said the talking to the man upstairs,” said remembered 14 dear friends he take the time to remember. cidents. The opportunity to go Veterans Day and Memorial Day Deas, particularly recalling his lost and thought of the names on As the Mass ended, Father (to the Mass) gave me the chance services mean a lot to him. Raised days in the military. “Over there the Vietnam Memorial in Wash- O’Brien read the names of those to think about those people and Lutheran, he converted to Ca- (Vietnam), you’re scared to death. ington, D.C. Before his illness, he veterans injured in the colum- how much they gave up in order tholicism 45 years ago when he You don’t sleep well at night be- thought he would retire and do barium. The congregation was to serve in the military. It brings married his wife, Emilie. Both cause you’re not listening to your charity work for wounded veter- invited to call off names of ser- it home when you think about it are fighting cancer, making this surroundings. You’re listening for ans and still hopes there is time vice personnel they knew. Then, in terms like that,” Ratcliffe said. year’s Veteran’s Day Mass acutely what might be incoming … God for that. Meanwhile, he will con- voices raised singing the National “It made me feel really good to poignant. was a big part of my life over there.” tinue to attend the services he can Anthem. n Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY A4 Pillowcase dresses clothe orphans in Ghana GLENDA MEEKINS of the Florida Catholic staff ‘It’s fantastic. Because of the outpouring, we have LAKELAND | Toya Martin recalled her first St. Anthony one other avenue where Council of Catholic Women meet- we can send dresses, ing. They were making dresses out of pillowcases for women in so we are going to try need. Not a seamstress, she was to do that as well as an amazed. Now that she is president of the ongoing effort, rather council, she decided to bring back the activity. Thanks to council than a one-time thing.’ members, friends and parishioners at St. Anthony Parish in Lake- Toya Martin land, more than 50 dresses will go to Countryside Children’s Welfare Home in Bawjiase in the Central and materials to get me started. Region of Ghana. She also sent a dozen dresses and Martin became a member by had a friend of hers send a couple accident. The council was host- others. So, I gathered a few friends ing a retreat and to attend, she from the university who sewed Women of St. Anthony Council of Catholic Women proudly exhibit pillowcase dresses, which will be thought she had to become a and collected gently used and sent to an orphanage in Ghana in December. (COURTESY) member. Always attracted to a life new pillowcases and began the of service, it was a perfect fit. “I’ve first pillowcase dress project. We than a one-time thing,” she said. been doing service all my life, so completed 75 pillowcase dresses “You can use any size pillowcase. that played into it. I enjoy doing to take to the orphanage the first The hem can be let out to be worn service,” Martin said. year.” as a tunic or dress. There are a lot She bought pillowcases at the Doone made the dress project of things they (the recipients) can Dollar Tree to jumpstart the en- part of the Service Learning Proj- do. Some sew it onto a T-shirt.” deavor. “Because I don’t know ect for the students and opened a Martin’s daughter, Katherine, anything about sewing, I bought classroom at USF to bring people will deliver the dresses to Doone satin pillowcases, not knowing together who wanted to sew and Dec. 1. The 21-year-old joined satin is hard to work with,” she turn out as many dresses as pos- St. Anthony Council of Catholic said. She sent out web links of the sible in a 10-hour day. Since then, Women at 18. She is the youngest pattern and enlisted parishioners the project has expanded to her women’s council member. via bulletin announcements. parish, Girl Scout troops and more “As a family we do a lot of volun- Between parishioners, coun- through the benevolence of many teer hours because I think that’s Premier Catholic Funeral Home cil members and friends of Kathy Catholic friends and communi- important,” explained her moth- Wagner, another council member, ties such as St. Anthony’s Coun- er. “Some people say they are very they have more than 50 dresses to cil Catholic Women. Having the fortunate. We are more than very ON-SITE CREMATORY send to Ghana. Wagner’s friends council participate is yet another fortunate, so therefore we need • SIMPLE and TRADITIONAL CREMATION had already made dresses when unexpected blessing. “The dress- to give back as much as we can. I they lost their delivery contact. es have truly become a way for the instill that in both my daughters.” • TRADITIONAL BURIAL Learning that the council had an community to do their part,” she Martin said she hopes the organization in need and a con- said. younger generation will continue • ADVANCE PLANNING nection to get them there, they Martin thought the council to join the council and perpetuate 3 LOCATIONS donated all they had, 38 dresses, might have 10 to 15 dresses to its legacy of advocacy and justice. and are still sewing. send and is thrilled with the out- She believes there are few young West Orange Chapel “Never did I dream that one come. “It’s fantastic. Because of people because “people believe group of women would donate the outpouring, we have one other it’s a lot of old women. But they their dresses and then all these avenue where we can send dress- don’t know how young some of 407-295-2273 other people would make them. es, so we are going to try to do that these old women are.” n 1400 Matthew Paris Blvd. • Ocoee, FL 34761 It’s amazing for something that as well as an ongoing effort, rather just went into the bulletin. They Maitland Chapel got right on it,” Martin said. After numerous calls, Martin 407-695-CARE (2273) found recipients in need of the dresses and someone to deliver 9001 N. Orlando Ave. • Maitland, FL 32751 them thanks to Elizabeth Doone at the Department of Teaching Sanford Chapel and Learning at the University of South Florida in Tampa. The 407-322-5131 12170-1122 fellow Catholic planned her first 905 Laurel Ave., Sanford, FL 32771 study abroad experience to Gha- na West Africa in 2013. “My neighbor, an accomplished seamstress, shared that she had seen a pattern for pillowcase dresses that I Todd M. DeGusipe should make for the children. Sha- Catholic Funeral Director/Owner ron Covert was her name and she Fourth Degree Knight sewed the banners for St. Mark the Evanlegist Catholic Church and blankets for children with cancer in Tampa.” Doone recalled, “She www.degusipefuneralhome.com was persistent and when I noted I didn’t have time, she made four A resident of Countryside Children’s Welfare Home in Bawjiase, dresses and emailed me the direc- Ghana proudly displays a pillowcase dress made for her through DIGNITY • HONOR • RESPECT tions and the exact measurements the generosity of a varied group of Catholic Women. (COURTESY) A5 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 All Souls is celebrated in the sister diocese GLENDA MEEKINS and bless it with holy water as those mourners sing. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | “I think we started the practice Deacon Carlos Solá of St. James in 2009 and at that time, the cem- Cathedral and Father Fred Ruse, eteries were poorly maintained joined Deacons Yadil Díaz and even though it was the responsi- Nilson Delgado as they concel- bility of the local political leader ebrated Mass in four cemeteries to care for the cemetery by cut- in the nine communities of Las ting back weeds and establishing/ Lomas where the Diocese of Or- maintaining fences or walls,” Fa- lando serves as missionaries to ther Ruse recalled. “None of that our sister Diocese of San Juan de was done. We usually went in the la Maguana. day before (Nov. 1) to clean the “As the years go by, in a fashion, cemetery ahead of the Mass.” To- the character of the celebrations day, he sees a visible transforma- has changed,” said Father Ruse tion, which is ongoing. who served the mission region “Maintenance is beginning for more than a decade. “I no- and walls are being established; ticed especially in Los Guayuyos the spaces are being given more this year, that there were so many respect; still a long way to go but Deacon Carlos Solá proclaims the Gospel in the cemetery in Los Guayuyos, which serves Los Guayuyos, more people participating and ar- this is a quantum leap,” he noted. La Cueva and El Recodo. (COURTESY) riving with so many flowers to put “More and more people come to on all the graves. There was con- the Masses well prepared with ing cement slabs over the graves animal in a field, certainly with a priest. As missionary doctors, siderably more solidarity.” bouquets of flowers to place at to protect them. “There is clearly a very human sadness and grief, but nurses and volunteers helped heal That cemetery serves three the graves; children arriving with new attention to the deceased and absent anything akin to what the and restore their brothers and sis- communities: Los Guayuyos, El handfuls of flowers for more than a new way of embracing grieving Resurrection tells us about our- ters to health, those in the hills Recodo and La Cueva. graves of their own families, but and consolation.” He added, “I selves and creation as the Gospel honored those they lost, recall- During each Mass, names of all the graves. It is … a time for re- am confident that these celebra- proclaims.” At the same time, the ing the ultimate destination of all the deceased are read aloud, then newed consolation in the case of tions, little by little, introduce a day marked the beginning of the believers. The medical missions each person is invited to share a recent death or some from years more Christian hope and faith- surgical missions at the foot of the pointed to the frailty and tempo- the names of others who were not before.” filled experience of death, sad- mountain, in San Juan. The sig- ral aspects of life, while the All listed, including those of long ago. Father Ruse notices more fami- ness and loss. Prior it was often nificance of the two simultaneous Souls celebration was a reminder Deacons then go to every tomb lies erecting mausoleums or pour- probably more akin to burying an events was not lost on the retired of an eternal one. n Project enhances education

GLENDA MEEKINS of the Florida Catholic staff

ORLANDO | “I joined the Boy Scouts to learn about leadership, duty, character and honor since they are my top priorities in life,” said Eagle Scout and Lake Brant- ley High School student, Brandon, of Troop 200. To do so, he planned, raised money and led the repair and construction of the old greenhouse at Morning Star Catholic School, left unusable after a hurricane. Brandon’s goal was to teach students how to grow “basic starter plants.” He said the greenhouse could help “various children who have special needs grow and learn Faith Fit has new programs about God. Since I was a former student at St. Charles Borromeo ORLANDO | New content is conversation. Who is the dea- and often volunteered with the now available on the Diocese of con in the Catholic Church to- students at Morning Star, I wanted Orlando’s free Faith Fit App. Lis- day? We’ll look at the history of to contribute to the school’s mis- Former St. Charles Borromeo student, Brandon, chooses to repair ten to the latest messages from the permanent diaconate, it’s sion and provide an opportunity and construct a greenhouse at Morning Star Catholic School to Bishop Noonan, get notifications restoration by the Second Vati- for students to learn about plants “provide an opportunity for the students to learn about plants and sent straight to your phone about can Council, and the important and through their faith, incorpo- through their faith, incorporate God into this process.” (COURTESY) upcoming diocesan events and ministry that deacons are called rate God in the process.” enjoy new local podcasts. to fulfill in the Church of the 21st The 15-year-old junior noted, Jessica Hubbard, director of ad- begin using the greenhouse this One of the new series includes century. “The greenhouse can provide vancement at Morning Star said, fall in order to prepare plants for “The Faith Locker”, a show for vet- Faith Fit is funded through learning experiences for the stu- “Our greenhouse will work in transfer in early winter.” erans hosted by Stephen Smith, the generous donations to Our dents that can’t be found in the conjunction with our educational For Brandon, who has been Navy veteran and parishioner of Catholic Appeal. Prayers, spiri- classroom. It also teaches them vegetable garden, allowing us to “working hard in order to achieve Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic tual reflections and even weather the values of taking care of God’s begin our plants as seedlings in the lifelong title of Eagle Scout,” Church in Orlando. This podcast updates are in the palm of your creation and caring for others. the greenhouse, before transfer- the project was a win-win. He is meant to help veterans find hand. Search “Faith Fit App” in This greenhouse will also encom- ring them into our new, fully ac- added, “For me, this helps build spiritual renewal. the iTunes or Google Play store pass the virtue of patience for the cessible garden. We are excited my Catholic faith by seeing God’s Also available is “Deacons’ to download the newest version students.” that our students will be able to love work through the students.” n Den” a virtual café for Catholic today. n Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY A6 Sister Mackay honored at Bishop Moore Gala in Orlando

GLENDA MEEKINS school residence program operated think that’s the other reason for the of the Florida Catholic staff by the Diocese of Orlando, with children coming to the U.S. It’s ex- nearly 500 students. tending our experience of mission ORLANDO | Working for the last In 2012, Sister Mackay obtained and about this diocesan relation- 28 years as diocesan mission office scholarships for students to attend ship. It’s become a lived reality — director in the Dominican Republic Catholic schools in the Diocese of not ‘them’ out there. Now ‘them’ are has been a labor of love and a dream Orlando. “We had some very aca- at home with us, around our dinner realized for Ursuline Sister Berna- demically strong students who were table.” dette “Bernie” Mackay. In recog- showing some leadership potential. Bishop John Noonan and Doyle nition of the hundreds of lives she They were living in these very iso- presented her with the award, a changed in our sister Diocese of San lated villages,” Sister Mackay said. small token of their appreciation. Juan de la Maguana, Bishop Moore “They could be an inspiration to Sister Mackay said she believes the Catholic High School honored her the other kids in the village, show- change is occurring as a fruit of at the annual Legacy Gala, Nov. 16 ing them the world was bigger than the efforts borne by the successful at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort the village.” Dominican residents. “It speaks to in Orlando. To date, 20 students have par- the other children about what they The Legacy Gala honors indi- ticipated in the program, and six can dream,” she said. “The dream Sister Bernie Mackay is honored at the Bishop Moore Legacy Gala viduals with great influence on attended Bishop Moore in Orlando. is not for now. The dream is beyond for her work in Catholic education. Joining in the celebration are Catholic education, particularly in “Each of our Catholic high schools the tomorrows that don’t seem pos- the students from the Dominican Republic, Bishop John Noonan and the Diocese of Orlando. “Through in the diocese have benefited from sible.” n Henry Fortier. (COURTESY | JIM WHITE) her determined ‘yes’ to God’s invi- hosting students from our sister tation, our diocesan schools have diocese as students in our own been impacted by this mission in schools,” said Scott Brogan, Bishop ASCENSION CHEERLEADERS AT UCF multiple ways,” said Thomas Doyle, Moore principal. “Their presence president of Bishop Moore. “First, on our campus has inspired an en- the mission office, under her direc- thusiasm for learning and a deep tion, has provided opportunities sense of responsibility. Our stu- for thousands of people from our dents learn as much from them as diocese, many of them teenagers, they learn from attending (Bishop to participate in mission work for a Moore).” week or longer. Through this invi- Several international students tation, our students, teachers, and have advanced to colleges and alumni have traveled to the fringes universities. The first two to attend to serve and, inevitably, to encoun- Bishop Moore, Luis José “Rubio” Ay- ter the face of Christ in those we bar de los Santos and Blander de los have served.” Santos, graduated from University Since she took her first vows in of Central Florida recently. Rubio, Ascension Catholic School cheerleaders from Melbourne headed to the University of Central Florida in August 1965, Sister Mackay began now a civil engineer, already de- Orlando, Nov. 2 for UCF Spirit Day. They took to the field at Spectrum Stadium with 250 other cheerleaders, teaching and ministering to the signed and built his first project, a most in high school. The team learned a new routine in two and a half hours and were the first ones poor in Guyana, Barbados, Cara- staircase for St. Maximillian Kolbe on the field. “Coach Victoria McDermott said she is proud of the squad and the United Cheerleaders cas, New York and later through the School in a small mountain town in Association (UCA) made sure their were comfortable and knew their routine. Ava, captain of the squad Farmworker Ministry (now Hope the Dominican Republic. said it was an amazing experience to cheer for a college football team “in front of more than 50,000 CommUnity Center). Sister Mackay’s desire to “bring people. And I want to do it again.” The squad, which includes its first male cheerleader, will cheer at When she arrived in Orlando’s the fringe to the center” is a goal she the Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. (COURTESY) sister diocese of San Juan de la Ma- continually pursues and achieves. guana in 1991, many of the commu- Most of these students return home nities in that part of the Dominican to re-invest in their communities. Republic had poor nutrition and no “We are beginning to see on this formal education. Today there are end (the Dominican Republic) that Give a Gift from Your four Catholic schools and a high we all have a place at the table and I PARISH CELEBRATES 60 YEARS Catholic Heart this Christmas 13550-1122 What’s on your heart?

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As part of St. Mary Magdalen Parish’s yearlong recognition of the Gifts parish’s 60th anniversary year, Bishop John Noonan concelebrated SCHOOL CHARITY Tax Deductible – Invested for Growth Mass with Father Charles Mitchell, pastor, and other clergy Nov. 3. CHURCH Bishop Noonan’s homily was filled with stories of his own experiences Screened to Respect Catholic Teaching at St. Mary Magdalen, first visiting when the church was dedicated in the 1970s. “Blessings on all of you, and may the next 60 years be as good as the last 60 years … May you continue to witness to the love To learn more, contact: the Lord has given you, to the faith he shares with you, and above all, to the life he wishes to give you forever and ever.” (COURTESY Madelyn Weed at 407.246.7188 or [email protected] www.cfocf.org | JOE BURBANK) A7 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

• Senior Day with Dr. Isabel 195 Rosalind Ave., Orlando. DIOCESAN EVENTS Fernandez: Thursday, Dec. 12, Mañanitas with Mariachi to Our EVENTS WITH BISHOP NOONAN 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m., St. John the Lady of Guadalupe. Reenactment Simbang Gabi Novena Mass: Dedication and blessing of Adult Mental Health First Apostle. $15, lunch and Mass. of the apparitions of Our Lady to Aid-Pt.1 & 2: Part One: Tuesday, Tuesday, Dec. 17, 7-8 p.m. Sts. Peter Schoenstein pipe organ: Satur- • Advent Concert: Friday, St. Juan Diego and interpretation and Paul Parish, 5300 Old Howell day, Nov. 23, 6-7:30 p.m., Basilica of Dec. 3, 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Part Two: of the symbols on her cloak. Thursday, Dec. 5, 12:30-4:30 p.m., Dec. 13, 7-8 p.m., Mary, Mother Branch Rd., Winter Park. Bishop the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of God Chapel. St. John Vianney Bring your flower offering to the Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, 5300 Noonan invites you to celebrate the of the Universe, 8300 Vineland Ave., Catholic Church’s Adult Choir and Heavenly Queen. Old Howell Branch Rd., Winter third novena Mass of Simbang Gabi. Orlando. Join Bishop John Noonan, Park. $30. Cash or check made out Handbell Choir. Free. “Breath of Heaven” • Family Night-A Christmas Christmas Musical: Friday, The Filipino Christmas tradition is a rector Father Paul Henry and former to Catholic Charities of Central series of nine Masses celebrated in Basilica rectors, and the Basilica Florida. Contact Kyle Osborn, Celebration: Wednesday, Dec. 18, Dec. 6, 5-6:30 p.m., St. Mark the [email protected] or 407-969-8534. 6-8 p.m., Live nativity, food and Evangelist Parish, 7081 S.E. Hwy. the days leading up to the birth of Choir in the dedication of the new Course ID 00152245. treats for sale, and more. 42, Summerfield. Celebration Choir the Christ child. For a schedule of Schoenstein pipe organ at the vigil directed by Roger Grenier. Concert Masses at other locations during the Mass. Music of Perry, Handel, Widor, Youth Mental Health First held in the church. Aid-Pt.1 & 2: Part One: Monday, remaining eight days, go to filipino- Rutter and more. maryqueenoftheuni- Dec. 9, 8:30-12:30 p.m.; Part Two: MASSES/PRAYER Christmas at the Basilica ministryorlando.org verse.org/concerts/ or by calling Wednesday, Dec. 11, 8:30-12:30 Concert: Friday, Dec. 6, 7:30-8:30 407-239-6600. p.m., Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, SESSIONS p.m., Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the 5300 Old Howell Branch Rd., Feast of the Holy Innocents Winter Park. $30. Cash or check Universe, 8300 Vineland Ave., Christians of the area. Stmarkrcc. of Lourdes, 1014 N. Halifax Ave., Vigil Prayer Service: Friday, Orlando. Dr. William Picher and made out to Catholic Charities of Dec. 27, 7-7:30 p.m., St. Mary com. Daytona Beach. Leslie Bonner, 386- Central Florida the day. Contact the Basilica Choir. Adults $25, 265-1199. Magdalen Catholic Parish Marian under 12 are free. Tickets: http:// Kyle Osborn, [email protected] or Grotto (weather permitting), • “Divorce Care Ministry Adults 407-969-8534. Course ID 00152250. maryqueenoftheuniverse.org/ 861 Maitland Ave., Altamonte concerts/ or by calling 407-239- SUPPORT and Children,” Mondays, 6:30-8 Springs. All are invited, especially 6600. p.m., Holy Name of Jesus, 3050 N. those who have lost a child. Bring MINISTRIES Hwy. A1A, Indialantic. 321-773- Find Your Greatness: Saturday, RETREATS an ornament for the Tree of 2783. Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Epiphany Caregiver Support Group: Remembrance for children who Catholic Parish, 201 Lafayette St., fourth Tuesday of the month, 10 Families with incarcerated Grieving Parents Retreat: have been lost. 407-265-2307. loved ones: Saturday, Nov. 23, 9 a.m.- Port Orange. Speaker Jonathan a.m.-11:30 a.m., St. Margaret Mary Interpreted Mass for the Fanning will focus on four habits Parish, 526 N. Park Ave., Winter • Third Saturdays, 9 a.m., St. 5:45 p.m., St. James Cathedral, 215 deaf: Sundays, 11 a.m. Mass, N. Orange Ave., Orlando. A one- to transform one’s life based Park. All caregivers are welcome. Mary Magdalen Parish, Mother Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1014 on “Four Signs of a Dynamic Deacon Bill Timmes, 407-647-3392. Teresa Room, 861 Maitland Ave., day spiritual retreat for parents N. Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach. whose children, of any age, have Catholic.” $25 at dynamiccatholic. Sunshine Seniors: third Altamonte Springs. 407-463-5780 An American Sign Language com or call 859-980-7900. Thursdays, noon (except in the or email [email protected]. died by any cause, no matter interpreter provided. Meet in the The 177 Project-An Evening summer), Blessed Trinity Parish, Bereavement support how long ago. $25/person or $40/ café, 10:15 a.m., for a “deaf coffee of Adoration and Music: 4545 Anderson Rd., Orlando. Enjoy groups: couple. Fee includes three meals chat” with pastries. 386-255-0433. and all retreat material. www. Sunday, Dec. 8, 7-9 p.m., St. Charles a potluck lunch, outings and faith. • St. James Cathedral social emfgp.org or call 617-542-8057. Rosary: Before all Masses and Borromeo Parish, 4001 Edgewater Turner Flynn, 407-277-1702. hall, 215 N. Orange Ave., Orlando, Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, San Pedro Center: 2400 Dike Dr., Orlando. Encounter Jesus Separated and divorced: monthly. Life after loss grief Fridays at 6 p.m., and Tuesdays Christ in Eucharistic Adoration and support. Contact mmokris@ Rd., Winter Park. To register: at 5:30 p.m. St. Jude Parish, 443 • Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Holy sanpedrocenter.org/retreats- music. kpastore@stcharlesorlando. Redeemer Parish, 1603 N. Thacker stjamesorlando.org; 407-422-2055, Marion Oaks Dr., Ocala. Come and org, 407-293-9556. ext. 101. programs, or call 407-671-6322. experience the power of the rosary Ave., Kissimmee. Sylvester Parish Advent Mission: • Holy Redeemer Parish office, • Advent Day Retreat with as we pray as in community. Aida Edwards, 407-460-0707. Monday-Wednesday, Dec. 9-11, 5 1603 N. Thacker Ave., Kissimmee, Father Anthony Aarons: Tuesday, Figueroa, 352-512-3592. • Catholic Divorce Survival Dec. 3, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. $35. p.m., St. Mark the Evangelist, 7081 Guide, 12-week program, second and fourth Wednesdays, • Advent Taize Prayer Service: SE Hwy. 42, Summerfield. Medical Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., St. 5-6:30 p.m. 407-847-2500; Thursday, Dec. 5, 7-8 p.m., Mary, COMMUNITY doctor and Capuchin Franciscan Margaret Mary Parish, 526 N. Sylvester Edwards, 407-460-0707; Mother of God Chapel. Taize is Rev. Paul Bielecki, has a passion Park Ave., Winter Park. Cost: search ministry of consolation at a sung and silent participatory EVENTS for humanitarian relief, especially $20, scholarships available. Lori hredeemer.org. prayer service designed to achieve in the Middle East, where he Reinneck, lori@stmargaretmary. • Blessed Trinity Parish, Building a contemplative state through Our Lady of Guadalupe has been working for the past org, 407-645-0284. L, 5 S.E. 17th St., Ocala. Multiple music, song, and silence. Free. $5 Celebration: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 19 years, bringing medical/social • Coffee and conversation, groups and first Wednesdays, 7-9 love offering suggested. 4-6 p.m., Lake Eola Amphitheatre, assistance to the persecuted second Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Our Lady p.m. Compassionate Friends, Ocala chapter, for families who have experienced the death of a child. TO ADVERTISE Peggy McClaskey, 352-694-2978. CALL 1-888-275-9953 COMMUNITY BUSINESS DIRECTORY • St. Stephen Parish Enrichment Center 1, Rm. 103, 575 Tuskawilla ATTORNEYS ATTORNEYS Rd., Winter Springs, first Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m. For anyone who has ALTAMONTE SPRINGS TITUSVILLE / OVIEDO lost a loved one, spouse, parent, 11840-1122 child or sibling. 407-699-5683.

Titusville/ SECULAR Cocoa Beach/Viera COMMUNITIES 321-269-1511 • Employment and labor 1188 Buttonwood Circle Elder law attorneys Lay Carmelites: first Saturdays, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 • General corporate • Estate planning 9 a.m.-noon, Annunciation Parish, Oviedo 1020 Montgomery Rd., Altamonte 407-865-7473 • Medicaid/Nursing home planning • Supreme Court Certified Circuit Court, 407-542-3965 Springs. Lay Carmelite order of Fax: 407-865-5979 11841-1122 Family Law and Appellate Mediator • Probate and Guardianships the Blessed Virgin Mary is an [email protected] association of mainly laypersons • Trained and experienced arbitrator • Real estate closings www.AllenderLaw.com www.robertwraschlaw.com who commit themselves “to live in the following of Jesus Christ” ORLANDO WINTER SPRINGS according to the charism, traditions

11870-1122 and spirit of Carmelite order. Terri West, [email protected], Bankruptcy Law 407-925-6274, lcarmacc.com. • Former Chairman, Bankruptcy Committee, OCBA Andrew J. Chmelir, P.A. Secular Franciscans of the • Author, “Forgive Us Our Debts: When is it Okay Attorney-at-law Lady Poverty Fraternity: first for Christians to File Bankruptcy?” Sundays, 12:30-3:30 p.m., San Pedro Spiritual Development • Helping people in our community find financial • Criminal law, family law and general practice Center, Building 100, 2400 Dike peace for more than 20 years • Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake and Brevard counties Rd., Winter Park. Dan Hardester, 407-687-6647, danhardester@ 816 N. Thornton Ave. Orlando, FL 32803 351 E. State Road 434, Suite A • Winter Springs, FL 32708 yahoo.com.

Anne-Marie L. Bowen, P.A. 11816-1122 407-228-1300 407-327-8899 Secular Franciscans of the www.bowenbankruptcylaw.com [email protected] | www.jmcflaw.com Mother of the Living Gospel: first Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon, Incarnation Parish, Royal Hall, 1515 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. Edgewater Dr., Orlando. Margie Sweeney, 407-973-3366; facebook. Reserve your space for the year! To advertise in this directory, please call 1-888-275-9953 com/MotheroftheLivingGospel. Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY A8

BISHOP VISITS FRANCES CABRINI

Bishop John Noonan celebrates with parishioners at the inception of a new parish in Lake Nona/ St. Cloud, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Nov. 17, the Sunday after the saint’s feast day. St. Cabrini was the first United States citizen to be canonized. She worked with immigrants and helped establish many educational and medical facilities. (PHOTOS BY STEPHEN DOWELL | FC) Law professionals celebrate Red Mass and their mission

GLENDA MEEKINS of the Florida Catholic staff who get a sonogram choose life for their child. The St. Martin de Por- res Award recognizes those who, ORLANDO | St. James Cathe- like de Porres, had an outreach to dral in Orlando filled with judges, the community, who served the lawyers and other legal profession- faithful and less fortunate. als for the annual Red Mass, Nov. Recalling the many mentors, 8. Celebrant Msgr. Richard Walsh supporters, guides and teachers called to mind recently canonized in life who stand apart in one’s Cardinal John Henry Newman, memory, having made a profound who said in one of his medita- difference in charting the course tions, “God knows me and calls of life, Kevin Shaughnessy noted, me by name. He has created me “For me and many other people in to do some definite service,” Msgr. this room, Tom Wilkes (Jr.) filled Walsh said. “Somewhere along the all those roles. He was a mentor, line, your decision to be what you teacher and he did it for me and are … wasn’t something by chance, hundreds of young Catholics, law- rather the Lord inspired it in you.” yers, and young professionals—all As Newman said, “He has com- the while raising a great family mitted some work to me he has and working in the Church.” Wil- Michelle and Christeen Gray, center, receive the posthumous Catholic Community Servant Award on not committed to another.” Mon- kes served three mayors as Orange behalf of Deacon Dave Gray from St. James Cathedral Rector Father Miguel Gonzalez, Catholic Lawyer’s signor Walsh added, “If (the work County Attorney while working Guild of Central Florida president Leticia Diaz, Betty Wheeler and Msgr. Richard Walsh. (PHOTOS BY you do) is your mission, then you hard in the Cursillo movement GLENDA MEEKINS | FC) are part of something bigger than and many other church ministries. yourselves … You are working for Wilkes Jr. was the recipient of the Central the Lord himself.” St. Thomas More Award, given to a Florida Taking the words to heart, the practicing Catholic who is involved judges join lawyers present renewed their Oath in his/her parish; who displays a lawyers of Admission to the Florida Bar then commitment to Catholic Social and others proceeded to a luncheon where the Teaching and Christian principles; in the legal Catholic Lawyers Guild of Central evangelizes, and promotes the so- profession Florida recognized several mem- cial, intellectual and spiritual wel- at the bers of the community who live the fare of the people served through annual mission God set before them. his/her discipline. Red Mass, Norma Stives, co-founder of In a moving speech, Betty Nov. 8 at Life Choices Medical Clinic in Wheeler presented the new Cath- St. James Altamonte Springs, accepted the olic Community Servant Award, Cathedral, St. Martin de Porres Award for created posthumously in recogni- Orlando. strides in providing free services tion of Deacon David Gray’s min- to pregnant mothers such as sono- istry to immigrants, prisoners, and grams, parenting classes, profes- the poor. Deacon Gray died earlier sional counseling for post-abortive this year. His wife, Christeen, and women and men, and much more. one of his daughters accepted the The clinic began as Mary’s place in award with gratitude. Although 2008. Now, it is intentionally locat- not a lawyer, Deacon Gray’s min- ed next to an abortion clinic in the istry exemplified the ideals of both hopes of reducing the rising num- St. Thomas More and St. Martin de in need are remembered in the of God’s plan for them. As St. New- how I am necessary for (God’s) pur- bers of abortions in the state. Judge Porres. The guild noted his laugh- hearts and minds of all who knew man said, “I have my mission. I poses. I am part in his great work. Carmine Bravo, who presented the ter, love of faith, love for life, and him. may never know it in this life, but I am a link in the chain — a bond award, noted 80% of the women willingness to accompany anyone All three recipients were clear I shall be told it in the next. Some- of connection between persons.” n WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 FLORIDACatholic PALM BEACH DIOCESE Former NFL star talks sports, life strategies CECILIA PADILLA of the Florida Catholic staff Erin NORTH PALM BEACH | Mike McCoy, McAuliffe, a former defensive tackle for the Green Bay sixth grade Packers, Oakland Raiders, New York Giants student at St. Clare and Detroit Lions, had an illustrious career Catholic in the National Football League. McCoy, now School in 71 years old, towered over the sixth, seventh North Palm and eighth grade students at St. Clare Catho- Beach, lic School in North Palm Beach, as he spoke navigates about his career in the NFL and reminisced around about game highlights Nov. 5. chairs while His large hands glittered with Super Bowl only relying rings, but he values one a little more than the on outside others. “This ring right here, my class ring voices for from the University of Notre Dame, is the direction. one I’m proudest of,” McCoy said. “I worked McCoy used harder for this ring, to graduate from college this exercise than I did to achieve any game ring.” to teach Since his retirement, McCoy has found a students new passion in speaking to Catholic youth about the all over the United States through Mike Mc- pitfalls of Coy Ministries, bringing to them a message peer pressure of empowerment and helping them develop and external direction and vision for their lives. influences. (CECILIA “I had a coach once who told me you either PADILLA | FC) work through the pain of discipline now, or deal with the pain of disappointment later,” he said. “I’ve applied this philosophy to more than just football in my life.” Having grown up Catholic in Erie, Penn- sylvania, McCoy carries a connection to his faith that has only strengthened through life’s tests and challenges. He spoke candidly Throughout his presentation, McCoy aptly FYI about his own struggles dealing with the captured students’ attention by addressing pressures of family, friends and football. “You larger topics in a straightforward, yet creative To learn more about Mike McCoy Ministries, all have God-given unique talents,” he said. manner. At one point in the presentation, visit mccoy77.com or call 770-490-8200. “You might not know what they are yet, but McCoy placed three chairs randomly on the Visit diocesepbschools.org for more news and God will reveal them over time.” stage in the school’s cafeteria. He called for a information on the Diocese of Palm Beach Catholic schools or follow the Office of Catholic At the center of McCoy’s presentation is volunteer, who was sixth grader Erin McAu- Schools on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @ a call to students to stand against the influ- liffe. She had to choose a friend who would DoPBCatholicSchools. ences that are undermining the future of so blindfold her and then give direction on how many young people. These, he stated, are sex, to navigate around the chairs. McCoy gave alcohol and drugs. his own misguided directions, intentionally of the students present were surprised to “You are going to encounter situations confusing McAuliffe. hear that others were going through similar that lead you down a dark path,” McCoy said. “It was hard to go around the chairs be- issues they encountered. “The first being that sex is casual, meant for cause I didn’t know who to listen to,” McAu- McCoy ended the day in prayer, asking whoever you choose to give it to. But true love liffe said. “There were too many voices telling for each student to be bold and pray out loud waits. You have self-worth from the Creator me what to do. I see how this is an example of with him. “Stand up for Christ, be his advo- to share this special act with the one you how listening to bad influences can lead you cate on earth. Pray in public so that others marry. When you have sex, you give your down the wrong path.” may see your love and devotion. Be a cham- whole self to that person. You value them McCoy also spoke about the role faith pion of Christ.” that much that there isn’t room for anyone plays in finding your way through life. McCoy spent the week visiting various else. The second is alcohol. Alcohol is a vice “When I was a student, I went to church schools in the Diocese of Palm Beach, includ- just like any other. My father drank a lot and it because it’s what I had been raised to do,” ing St. Helen School in Vero Beach, All Saints made life very difficult for him. I saw how his McCoy said. “On the outside, I was playing School in Jupiter, St. Jude School in Boca, and drinking hurt so many in my life. When I got the game of church, but on the inside, I was St. Joseph School in Stuart. to college, I found myself drinking a lot, too. It doubting my faith and questioning why I Nicolas Montealegre, a seventh grader at was the cool thing to do in a college town but, should care about it. I realized that these St. Helen School, said, “I enjoyed the activi- I witnessed many young men go into bars barriers were getting in my way of following ties and demonstrations Mr. McCoy did with and never come out because the drink was God, of seeing my true potential, of being a the other students, but the one I liked the that influential. Lastly, drugs have become a disciple of Christ.” most was the notecard activity at the end.” huge part of our culture. I’ve tried marijuana. At the end of the presentation, McCoy Mya Eckerd-Harris, a fourth grader from I went down that hole. You say, ‘it’s only one asked the students to fill out a notecard an- St. Helen School, said, “He talked a lot about time, what can it hurt?’ But what many don’t swering the question, “What barriers hold me grace and kindness, and he gave us a prayer realize is that it’s a gateway to other drugs back?” He read cards from previous school called the Promise Prayer. I really like the Lilly Ann Harbin, a fourth grader at St. that will hurt you. I have seen people in my visits, reading words like “depression,” “anx- prayer and how Mr. McCoy asked us to say Helen Catholic School in Vero Beach, own life affected by drugs. It’s a choice that iety,” “pornography” and “addiction” from the prayer every day before school until tries on former NFL defensive tackle Mike devalues life.” cards written by other middle schools. Many Thanksgiving.” n McCoy's Super Bowl ring. (COURTESY) Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A2 To cry out, to walk, to give thanks The date for Thanksgiving in our nation and around the world who BISHOP’S SCHEDULE nation is fixed for the fourth Thurs- lack many goods and would be day of November, which causes the grateful to have them. Nov. 28-29 – Pastoral Center celebration this year to be as late There are many reasons which closed in observation of Thanksgiving as possible on Nov. 28. Because of may have caused the nine cured Dec. 5 – 10:30 a.m., Christmas this, we have more time to lepers not to return to tree trimming with St. Juliana School FLORIDA spend in preparation for thank Jesus for the great students, Pastoral Center, Palm Beach this uniquely American miracle they had experi- Gardens; 2:30 p.m., meeting with Catholic holiday free from the rush- enced. One reason may Catholic Charities Board of Directors, DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH ing around that occurs be that the nine lepers Pastoral Center during the days before felt that the Lord really Dec. 6 – noon, Mass with Vol. 81, No. 2 Christmas. It is important did not need or want to be Catholic realtors, St. Joan of Arc, to recall that the basis of thanked. After all, he was Boca Raton; 6:30 p.m., reception and 9995 North Military Trail dinner for Lumen Christi Gala, The Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 Thanksgiving is gratitude LIVING THE the Son of God and had Breakers, Palm Beach 561-775-9500 • Fax 561-630-2698 for that upon which our TRUTH IN the ability to perform the nation was founded in cure. They may have felt Dec. 7 – 11 a.m., Mass, LOVE PUBLISHER order to provide a place he did not need the thanks installation and lunch with Damas Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito where one could wor- Bishop and would have known of Católicas in Acción, Cathedral ship God in freedom and Gerald it anyway. Another reason of St. Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach DIRECTOR OF where opportunity would Barbarito is that they may have in- Gardens COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING be provided equally for tended to thank the Lord Dec. 9 – Pastoral Center closed and SOCIAL MEDIA all. From even before but put it off for another in observance of the Immaculate Jennifer Trefelner Conception; 9 a.m.-noon, video [email protected] its formal foundation, those who time because they became quickly 561-775-9529 came to this great land thanked preoccupied with other matters. cried out to Jesus at a distance when conference call with Florida Catholic God for all it provided in regard to New concerns and things to be they encountered him. They did not Conference of Bishops DIOCESAN EDITOR its natural freedom and resources. done gave them reason not to do let themselves be separated from Cecilia Padilla We have much to be thankful for the most obvious. Perhaps the nine God because they were shunned by [email protected] and, as we gather for Thanksgiv- lepers did not come back to thank society. They cried out to the Lord life full and beautiful. Whenever 561-775-9528 ing this year, we shall continue to Jesus because they took the cure in their need and the Lord heard we meet Jesus, the word ‘thanks’ implore God’s providence as we for granted. Once they were cured, them. The Pope expressed how we comes immediately to our lips, be- • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, celebrate the American spirit of they now had new things they must all not hesitate to cry out in cause we have discovered the most or customerservice@theflorida gratitude and hope. There certainly wanted from God and were looking prayer to God. We must realize that important thing in life, which is catholic.org is in our nation today much reason ahead too much for these things. we all need to be healed and we can not to receive the grace to resolve a to recall the need for giving thanks While we can reflect on many rea- only be so if we cry out to the Lord. problem, but to embrace the Lord Notify us of address changes (temporary when so many other challenges and sons that the nine lepers did not re- It is also important for us to realize of life.” or permanent) as soon as possible. Please problems can distract us. A lack of turn, it is important to reflect upon that we do so as a family and that To cry out, to walk, to give thanks change your address online at www. thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at gratitude for an abundance of gifts the one who did come back to give our prayer as a family makes a dif- are essential to the cure of the lep- 1-888-275-9953. is a human condition which afflicts thanks to God. Thanksgiving is ference. ers. While the nine lepers experi- not only our present generation but an essential part of who we are as Pope Francis expressed that the enced a good part of the journey • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at many before it. made in the image and likeness of second thing that united the lepers and the healing, it is only the Sa- 407-373-0075 or The incident of the 10 lepers in God. While we can encounter many was that they walked. The Gospel maritan who gave thanks who com- [email protected] the Gospels (Lk 17:11-19) is a very things as one family, it is essential to emphasized how the lepers walked pleted the journey for his life. While • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at good one that points out how easy express gratitude if we truly wish to together to encounter Jesus from a the others had faith in Jesus and his 1-888-275-9953, or it is not to give thanks when there encounter ourselves and our loving distance and how they were cured ability to heal them and supported [email protected] is much for which to be thankful. God. as they walked away from Jesus. each other in their journey, it was State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite This Gospel passage is one that is In his homily for the canoniza- The Pope emphasized that they only the Samaritan leper who expe- G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; often used during the Thanksgiving tion of five new saints, this year on moved together and not on their rienced the culmination of the jour- Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- season and at the Mass on Thanks- the 23rd Sunday of ordinary time, own. It was their walking together ney of faith by his thanksgiving. In free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 giving Day. We recently heard this including John Cardinal Henry that united them in their illness this regard, Pope Francis expressed EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: account on Oct. 13 of this year, the Newman, Pope Francis spoke a and their walking together that beautiful words for us to reflect Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade 23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time. Je- great deal about the Gospel reading found them cured. It is precisely upon at Thanksgiving: “A grateful Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez sus met 10 lepers who asked to be for that Sunday in his homily. He their walking together that drew heart is one that remains young. To Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu cured of their terrible affliction. did not conjecture, as I just did, as to the attention to the reality which as- say a single ‘thank you Lord’ when Office Manager: Kristen Maheu When Jesus granted their plea, the reasons why the nine lepers did tonished Jesus that only one walked we wake up, throughout the day Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko only one of them returned to give not return to thank Jesus. In fact, he back to thank him. The Pope em- and before going to bed: that is the Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael Carlock thanks to the Lord for his cure. The identified the things which united phasized that it is the responsibility best way to keep our hearts young, Advertising Graphic Designer: one who returned was a Samaritan, the ten lepers and were an assis- of all of us who celebrate the Eu- because hearts can grow old and be Michael Jimenez unlike the other nine who were of tance to them in their human con- charist as an act of thanksgiving, to spoilt. This also holds true for fami- Jewish background. This prompted dition. He did emphasize how the point the way to those who have lost lies, and between spouses. Remem- Have a comment/want more info/ Jesus to question why only one of leper who came back to thank Jesus their way. ber to say thank you. Those words have a story suggestion? Leave your the 10 came back to thank him. He fulfilled what united the lepers as The final action which is essen- are the simplest and most effective feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; showed astonishment that the ones human beings and brought him to tial to the fullness of the healing of all.” click reader feedback link in the top menu. who should have been the most ex- the realization of freedom and joy which Jesus had affected is found As we continue to cry out and to Send statewide news releases to pected to come back to give thanks through the miracle. The thankless in the Samaritan who returned to walk, let us most of all give thanks [email protected] did not. This incident prompts us lepers lacked this realization. thank the Lord. While the others to God for the many blessings he to realize how easy it is to take for Pope Francis expressed that the were cured, it is only this man who has bestowed upon us. I give thanks granted what we have and not to ex- first thing that united the lepers knew the fullness of the healing to God for the blessing of all of you, All contents copyright © 2019, The Florida Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from press gratitude to God for the gifts was that they cried out. Because since he came back to Jesus who your faith and the life you bring Catholic News Service. which he has abundantly given to of the dreadful disease which they is the source of life. Pope Francis to our Diocese in so many differ- us. This is especially true when we possessed, as well as their being ex- expressed that, “Only an encoun- ent ways. Thank you and a Blessed experience so many people in our cluded from society due to it, they ter with him can save, can make Thanksgiving. n

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). A3 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Relics of St. Padre Pio to visit diocese ALEEN STANTON In addition to evangelizing the Florida Catholic correspondent life and miracles of St. Padre Pio, Compagnia San Pio is dedicated A family PORT ST. LUCIE | The relics to assisting the special needs from Holy of Padre Pio, also known as St. Pio community through the dona- Family Parish of Pietrelcina, are available for tions acquired from the relics’ in Port veneration in the Diocese of Palm veneration. “Right now, we want St. Lucie Beach until Dec. 14. Holy Family to buy a minibus for transporting venerate Parish in Port St. Lucie is pres- the disabled,” Ciullo said. the relics of ently scheduling churches and Rosalia DiFede, a parishioner Padre Pio. parishioners for veneration of the of St. Andrew Parish in Stuart, The relics relics. Currently, St. Anastasia visited the relics and expressed include Parish in Fort Pierce, St. Andrew her awe of their holiness. “Mira- a glove Parish in Stuart, St. Jude Parish in cles can happen after veneration worn by Tequesta, and Holy Name of Jesus of the relics. I am praying for my the saint, Parish in West Palm Beach have husband, who has stage four can- hair from registered to host the relics for cer.” his beard, veneration. Hiba Georges, a parishioner of and blood Father Tri Pham, pastor of Holy St. Joseph Parish in Stuart, said, from the Family, invited Diego Ciullo, em- “St. Padre Pio said during his stigmata issary for the relics of St. Padre life that after his death he would for which Pio from Compagnia San Pio in continue to help people. When I he is most Benevento, Italy, to bring the rel- touch the relic and look at it, I feel famously ics to the diocese. The guardian his presence.” known. of the relics in Italy, Father Gua- Another woman at the most re- (ALEEN STANTON rino Marciano, authorized Ciullo, cent veneration hour was moved | FC) to bring the relics of the beloved when she placed her hand on saint to Florida. the relic. “It makes me cry to see The relics include a glove worn the suffering Padre Pio endured by Padre Pio, hair from his beard, through the stigmata.” n and blood from the stigmata for which he is most famously To schedule a veneration oppor- known. The relics are housed in tunity, contact Holy Family Par- the convent of Montefusco near ish at 772-335-2385. To find out Pietrelcina, Italy, Padre Pio’s where the relics will be hosted birthplace. next, contact your local parish for “Millions of people from a complete schedule. For more in- around the world come to see the formation on the Compagnia San relics,” Ciullo said. Pio, visit compagniasanpio.com. Medical community renews healing mission at White Mass

LINDA REEVES Bernadette Macy, program coor- Florida Catholic correspondent dinator of Catholic Charities Inter- faith Health and Wellness ministry, WEST PALM BEACH | Father attended the Mass wearing white. Dennis Gonzales, interim parish She sat with some of the parish administrator of St. Ann Parish in nurses responsible for taking care West Palm Beach, reminded medi- of the faith communities of the Dio- cal professionals of their unique cese of Palm Beach. vocation during the annual White “Healthcare professionals Mass Nov. 9. are some of the most compas- “Catholic physicians and health- sionate people in the world,” she care professionals, you are called to said. “They are our unsung heroes imitate Christ, the divine physician, in the community, serving people to make your work his work and his in need, every day of the year. We work yours, to dedicate yourselves are so grateful that the Catholic to the needs of your patients, keep- physicians, parish nurses and vol- ing all financial and political in- unteers, medical professionals and terests secondary to the personal supporters come together for this More than 50 medical professionals dressed in white coats attended the White Mass Nov. 9 at St. Ann needs of each patient,” said Father annual Mass and blessing.” Parish in West Palm Beach. (COURTESY) Gonzales, as he led the Catholic Father Gonzales presented a men and women in renewal of their powerful homily reminding the the abundance of his love,” he said Dr. Felix Rodriguez, guild network of seven Catholic medical professional promises. medical professionals and all in concluding with a blessing. “God president, ended the celebration guilds in the state. They will gather More than 50 medical profes- attendance of their personal trea- bless all of you.” thanking everyone for being pres- March 27-29, 2020 during a state- sionals dressed in white coats at- sures and gifts from God meant to Those in white recited the phy- ent. “This is an honor for the guild wide conference at Our Lady of Di- tended the White Mass sponsored be shared with others. “The mes- sician prayer, asking the Lord for and it is inspiring to see you,” he vine Providence House of Prayer in by the Palm Beach Physicians Guild sage is about hope,” he said. “Doc- guidance and blessings. “Lord, give said. Clearwater. n of the National Catholic Medical tors, nurses and other health care skill to my hand, clear vision to my Rodriguez invited all to a recep- Association. Father Gonzales, guild professionals have the healing mind, kindness and sympathy to tion that followed, to learn about For information on the Palm chaplain and former hospice nurse, power of Jesus Christ. All of us are my heart. Give me strength to lift the guild’s dedication to integrating Beach Physicians Guild of the concelebrated the Mass with Father blessed by the Lord to bring heal- at least a part of the burden of my the Catholic faith into the practice National Catholic Medical As- Daniel Devore, chaplain at the De- ing powers to people. We are rich suffering fellowmen, and a true re- of medicine. The Palm Beach Physi- sociation visit palmbeachcma. partment of Veterans Affairs Medi- because the Lord Jesus Christ died alization of the rare privilege that is cians Guild of the National Catho- cathmed.org or email palmbeach- cal Center in West Palm Beach. for us on the cross, and we live in mine.” lic Medical Association is part of a [email protected]. Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A4 Teachers embrace youths’ changing expressions of faith CECILIA PADILLA FYI of the Florida Catholic staff To learn more about the Catholic JUPITER | Like many who work schools in the Diocese of Palm with Catholic youth, Robert Mc- Beach, follow the Office of Catholic Carty sees a decline in belief and Schools on Facebook, Twitter and practice of Catholicism in today’s Instagram: @DoPBCatholicSchools. Visit diocesepbschools.org for more young people. news and information on the Diocese “Think of a person who you know of Palm Beach Catholic schools. For has left the Catholic Church. Now more information on the Dr. Robert turn to the person next to you and McCarty and the Saint Mary’s Press say that person’s name, bring them research study, “Going, Going, Gone: into consciousness here today,” he The Dynamics of Disaffiliation in said. “At what age do you think that Young Catholics,” visit catholicre- person decided to leave the Church search.smp.org. or not identify as Catholic?” The answer, to the surprise of more than 500 Catholic school ation happens over time after a se- educators in the room, was age 13. ries of experiences or unanswered McCarty recalled the data that is questions. “It happens one ‘chip’ at presented by the St. Mary’s Press re- a time until one day there is that one search study, “Going, Going, Gone: last ‘chip’ that breaks off a big chunk The Dynamics of Disaffiliation in and they are ‘done.’ One unresolved Young Catholics.” discrepancy follows another, until “Seventy-four percent of the finally an individual decides that young adults sampled said they ‘none of it makes sense anymore,’ no longer identified themselves as or ‘I just don’t buy it anymore,’ so Catholic between the ages of 10 and ‘why stay?’” 20, with the median age being 13 In his presentation, McCarty years old,” he said. spent time interviewing young Robert McCarty, project coordinator for the St. Mary’s Press research study “Going, Going, Gone: The The 2003 study of Catholic adults, who grew up Catholic and Dynamics of Disaffiliation in Young Catholics,” spoke to diocesan educators and administrators at a School and Disaffiliation from Ca- have gone through a period of professional development day at All Saints Catholic School Nov. 8. (CECILIA PADILLA | FC) tholicism by the Center for Applied questioning their Catholic convic- Research in the Apostolate (CARA) tions. “In this video, I interviewed a ‘Why is the Church losing importance for young people? Why is faith losing was presented by McCarty as part young woman named Rachel, who of a professional development day associates her childhood as be- importance? Why are young people increasingly disaffiliating from the Church, for diocesan teachers and admin- ing ‘very Catholic.’ She tells us her regardless of school and parish involvement? We don’t have a “youth’ istrators held at All Saints Catholic father is a deacon and that there School in Jupiter Nov. 8. McCarty, was a pressure to be exemplary in problem,” we have a “faith’ problem.” How does the faith community pass on the project coordinator for this faith. By the end of the video, Ra- study, is a pastoral ministry con- chel tells us that after high school faith in a postmodern world?’ sultant and has published various and college she felt the freedom to works on the nature and dynamics question, and she eventually fell — Robert McCarty of Catholic youth. He is also an ac- away from the Church. She iden- tive volunteer in his parish youth tifies herself now as Catholic-ish,” modern rituals like gender reveal Carty “hit the issue right on” and ry teacher at Rosarian Academy in ministry and catechetical pro- McCarty said. parties and involvement in fitness that “we need to place more impor- West Palm Beach, felt that “her eyes gram at St. Francis of Assisi Parish So what happened during that groups, such as CrossFit, are other tance on engaging youths so that we were opened” by the information in Fulton, Maryland. His focus on time of questioning? McCarty instances of the type of culture meet them where they are.” Frear- McCarty articulated. “I know now the disaffiliation of Catholic youth highlights that youth, in general, young people gravitate towards. son expressed that she will seek to just how deeply I can influence my addressed the difficult questions are creating their own rituals in or- “I’ve had many colleagues say that affirm her students more in and students, especially at a young age,” schools and parishes struggle to der to find belonging. He noted that fitness is a type of ‘church’ for young out of academic settings as “made she said. “I will definitely apply this answer. Rachel found outlets outside of the people,” he said. “The camaraderie, in the image and likeness of God, information to my personal teach- “Why is the Church losing im- Church that fed her need to belong, the support system and the inclu- who are vital members of the body ing style in being a support system portance for young people? Why is behave, and believe because she sion they find in these groups is a of Christ.” to youth who feel the need to exam- faith losing importance? Why are felt unable to express her doubts in strong example of the environment Katherine Murphy, an elementa- ine their faith.” n young people increasingly disaffili- a safe environment. This, said Mc- Catholic youth seek in both secular ating from the Church, regardless Carty, happens to many Catholic and spiritual activities.” of school and parish involvement? youth who feel they are unable to McCarty concluded his presen- We don’t have a ‘youth’ problem, question or express uncertainty tation by connecting the key points we have a ‘faith’ problem. How does about Church teachings. that the St. Mary’s Press research the faith community pass on faith “There is a community-building study outlines. “If we just take a in a postmodern world?” McCarty website called The Dinner Party,” moment to analyze and process the posed. said McCarty. “It was created by type of culture and ideals young The reasons, explained Mc- two young women in their twen- people value, we will see how the Carty, lie in young people’s hunger ties who bonded over the loss of a Church can adapt to the evolving for meaning, purpose, connection, loved one. They posted a video of needs of Catholic youth. In school recognition, social justice and a de- their meeting for dinner regularly and parish settings, we need to sire to seek what is holy. “Students to cope with their grief and it blew shift from a recruitment framework and young adults have the desire up on Facebook. Now, The Dinner to an accompaniment paradigm. to be recognized as having gifts to Party has groups all over the U.S. Our primary commitment is to be share. They want to be individual- where young people can get togeth- authentic witnesses, accompanying ized and appreciated for who they er to find community through their young Catholics on their spiritual are. They seek to find belonging, grief. There are manuals and guide- journey, and to be the welcoming, which leads to behaving, and finally lines for hosting a party. This is an supportive community that might believing. A pattern which deviates example of the new rituals young be attractive to them.” from the Baby Boomer generation’s people are creating in efforts to be Ann Frearson, campus minister mentality of the opposite: believing, a part of something bigger than and chair of the math department behaving, belonging. themselves.” at Cardinal Newman High School McCarty explained that disaffili- McCarty also mentioned that in West Palm Beach, felt that Mc- A5 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Local parish commemorates 60 years as a family CECILIA PADILLA day. “The very first people to estab- when the church buildings were of the Florida Catholic staff lish St. Joan of Arc parish in 1959 first expanding. “It was a privilege had it in their blood to be the vital to be a part of the church’s expan- BOCA RATON | In his homily welcoming committee for all who sion committee for ‘The Journey directed to a crowded church of St. needed a spiritual home,” said Fa- Forward’ campaign. It was a two- Joan of Arc parishioners, Carmelite ther Driscoll. He noted that the par- year program that really examined Father Michael Driscoll posed the ish is focused on inclusion through what the church community need- question, “What does it mean to be the works of the Achieve, Inspire, ed moving forward and how best to Catholic?” Motivate (AIM) ministry, retreats achieve that. We worked tirelessly He answered this question by for the disabled and special needs to raise the funds for the expansion, quoting the novel, “Finnegans community and remembrance and it was inspiring to see everyone Wake,” by the great Irish author, Masses for lost loved one. “As a step up to the plate to either do- James Joyce. “Joyce wrote that ‘to Catholic community, we honor the nate themselves or advocate for the be Catholic means, here comes ev- importance of life by reaching out church,” said Story. erybody.’” to those who are different from us Sister Josephine Sullivan, a Indeed, ‘everybody’ paraded and by remembering the ones who member of the Sisters of Mercy through the wide-open church have passed on. They are a part of who founded St. Joan of Arc Catho- doors of St. Joan of Arc Parish in ‘everybody’ who builds up the body lic School in 1960, commented on Choir director Doug Byers leads the student and parish choir at the Boca Raton, in anticipation of the of Christ.” the growth of the school from 70 St. Joan of Arch Parish 60th anniversary celebration Mass on Nov. parish’s 60th anniversary celebra- Msgr. Michael McGraw, pastor of students in an old warehouse to 10. (VALERIE BRYANT) tion Mass Nov. 10. One after anoth- St. Joan of Arc Parish, similarly re- approximately 650 students today. er, young children, students, par- flected on the parish’s family-cen- “The school has flourished incred- Jason and Evelyn Tarazi partici- young adults who find fellowship ents and senior parishioners dipped tered qualities. “It is heartening to ibly since I began here in 1977. It has pated in the parish celebrations and community at St. Joan of Arc their fingers into the immense bap- see a whole church filled with faith been humbling to be a part of the with their three children, two of Parish. Veronica Metzler, a new tismal font at the church’s entrance. and memories. It’s not only filled sisters who have played a large role which are daughters in sixth and member of the parish family, said The multitude was seemingly with the past, but of the present and in the development of the parish. seventh grades at St. Joan of Arc she is excited by the number of endless, and the energy exuding the future. It’s good to remember It’s thrilling to see the new Mercy Catholic School and sang in the young people at St. Joan of Arc. “I’m from the combined student and where we came from, but it’s equal- Center bursting with life every day,” student choir at the celebration looking forward to getting to know parish choir only added to the ener- ly important to dream where we Sister Sullivan said. Mass. “My wife and I got married other Catholic young professionals gy and reverence of the early morn- might be as we grow into an even Frank Gulisano, who has been here 15 years ago. We’ve grown that will become my faith commu- ing Mass. larger family in the next 60 years.” a parishioner of St. Joan of Arc our family alongside the parish nity,” Metzler said. “It’s proof that Father Driscoll, who served the The growth of the parish and Catholic Church for 42 years, said family and it’s been a blessing to young people are stepping up to parish in 1977 and again in 1992, school campus is the most evident that what captured his dedication be a part of a school that values carry on the Catholic tradition.” n highlighted the welcoming na- proof of the community’s evolu- and faith when he first visited the faith just as deeply as education,” ture of St. Joan of Arc Parish in his tion into a thriving modern par- church was the “community spirit Jason said. To learn more about St. Joan of summary of the parish’s found- ish. Terry Story, who has been a and spiritual willingness to help A sign of the parish’s bright fu- Arc Catholic Church, visit stjoan. ing and thriving history to present parishioner for 25 years, recalled absolutely anyone in need.” ture to come is embodied in the org or call 561-392-0007.

Like Sister de Lourdes and Sister Florence Kruczek (right), 91, some 30,000 senior Catholic sisters, brothers, and religious order priests have spent their lives doing the Lord’s work. Most served for little or no pay, and now their religious communities do not have enough retirement savings. Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious offers vital support for necessities, such as medications and nursing care. Please be generous. Roughly 94 percent of donations aid senior religious.

“ Live with good humor and just do the Lord’s work,” says Franciscan Sister de Lourdes Okoniewski (left), 87. To donate: Diocese of Palm Beach PO Box 109650 Palm Beach Gardens FL 33410-9650 Retirement Fund Make check payable to Diocese of Palm Beach/RFR. Or contribute to the second collection for Religious in your parish on December 7 and 8.

Please give to those who have given a lifetime. retiredreligious.org 13492-1122

©2019 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photo: Jim Judkis Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A6 High school reflects on ‘Year of Lasallian Vocations’

CECILIA PADILLA Schieler called on all of DENA’s La- of the Florida Catholic staff sallians to reflect on their vocation as educators as part of 2019’s Year of BOCA RATON | “As I reflect on Lasallian vocations, as designated my own experiences with Lasallian by Pope Francis. education, I see just how deeply I’ve “As educators, we are called to been impacted by the mission to create an entrusted space for stu- serve Catholic youth and the poor dents to express anxieties and fears, in our community,” said Michael hopes and dreams. We must gen- Scaramuzzo, theology teacher and erously provide places where the campus minister at St. John Paul II reign of God may generate inclusion Academy in Boca Raton. and peace,” Brother Schieler said. This vocation message of edu- Named the patron saint of teach- cation, especially to the poor and ers, St. John Baptist de La Salle went disadvantaged, is at the heart of beyond figurative and literal bor- the Lasallian mission, which St. ders to educate poor boys in France. John Paul II Academy celebrated He handed on the mission to his Nov. 8 through a special livestream first Christian Brothers 300 years address from the Institute of the ago upon his death. The Year of La- Brothers of the Christian Schools at sallian Vocations marks the 300th La Salle University in Philadelphia. anniversary of St. John Baptist de Brother Robert Schieler, superior La Salle’s entry into eternal life and general of the Institute of the Broth- celebrates the impact of the mission ers of the Christian Schools, spoke he started. on behalf of the institute’s District Scaramuzzo was delighted for of Eastern North America (DENA), the school to host representatives Guests from the La Salle Educational Center in Homestead joined in small group discussion with St. John which has provided a Lasallian from the La Salle Educational Cen- Paul II Academy faculty and staff. (COURTESY) education to more than 14,000 stu- ter in Homestead, which officially dents and their families under one became the 31st ministry to join and also a member of Lasallian geographic network for the past ten the ranks of Lasallian ministries Youth, highlighted the inspiring years. last year. “The La Salle Educational message Brother Schieler gave on “Today we mark 10 years of our Center representatives being her to- the special role women play in the institute’s founding on the concept day is a testament to the fact that the Lasallian mission. “I live out the of association,” Brother Schieler Lasallian mission is growing and mission through service. Service said. “Being united throughout reaching far beyond our diocesan projects like going to the La Salle the world by one mission is funda- borders,” he said. Education Center in Homestead mental to the birth of the Christian Scaramuzzo also encouraged and the Dorian Relief Drive really Schools. We belong to something students at St. John Paull II Acad- make me passionate about the hu- larger than our educational com- emy to watch Brother Schieler’s man and Christian education of munity. We are partners in mission livestream address. Charlie News- young people which the Brothers to bring hope to young people in treet, a junior and a member of the proclaim,” she said. n over 80 countries.” school’s Lasallian Youth, said, “I The livestreamed event at St. see myself living out the Lasallian To learn more about St. John Paul John Paul II Academy connected mission by always treating others II Academy’s mission in Lasal- local educators with those in New with respect and dignity, especially lian education, visit sjpii.net or York, including in Albany, Buffalo, those most in need. All of the ser- call 561-989-8582. To read more Lincroft, New York City, and Syra- vice I do, both inside and outside about the Institute of the Brothers cuse, along with those in Toronto, of the Christian Schools and the of school, is oriented towards living Lasallian Brother Robert Schieler, seen on the video screen, addresses Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh and Lasallian.” District of Eastern North America Lasallian educators and staff gathered at St. John Paul II Academy in Providence, Rhode Island. Brother Grace Rodriguez, a fellow junior (DENA), visit fscdena.org. Boca Raton. (COURTESY) PHOTOGRAPHING THE GLADES

Fourth and seventh grade students from Sacred Heart Catholic School spent the day at the Arthur Marshall Wildlife Refuge Nov. 6. Students broke into groups and were given an Everglades tour guide for the day. All the groups walked nature trails and photographed wildlife, trees, plants and insects. The students

also discussed wildlife 11139-1122 conservation efforts with their tour guides. When the classes returned to campus, they began editing their photos on their iPads. Joshua Joseph, a seventh grader seen at right, was excited to apply technology to the conservation of the Everglades. (COURTESY) A7 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

COMMUNITY SOCIAL MEDIA THANKSGIVING PRAYER EVENTS The Diocese of Palm Beach is excited Palm Beach Youth Ministry (@DPBYouth); Thanksgiving Day: Nov. 28. As Thanksgiving Day Prayer: to engage with its stakeholders on Catholic Young Adults of Palm Beach (@ our nation celebrates Thanksgiving Lord, St. Lukes’ Fall Festival: Nov. social media. Please follow us and CYAPB); Diocese of Palm Beach Family Life Day and we gather with friends and we thank you for the goodness of our 7-10, St. Luke School, 2892 S. join the conversation on our various (DIocesePBFamilyLife); Catholic Charities family around the table, let us pause Congress Avenue, Palm Springs. people and for the spirit of justice that fills Facebook pages. Diocese of Palm Palm Beach (@CatholicCharitiesPB); to give God thanks for the abundant this nation. Free to public. Games, raffle and Beach (@DiocesePB); Diocese of Palm Diócesis de Palm Beach-Pastoral amusement park rides for all ages. blessings he has bestowed upon us. We thank you for the beauty and fullness Live DJ and entertainment, Latin Beach Office of Catholic Schools (@ Hispana (@DiocesePBHispanicMinistry), Below is a Thanksgiving Day Prayer of the land and the challenge of the cities. and American and Chinese food, DoPBCatholicSchools); Palm Beach and Father Albert Dello Russo (@ from the Catholic Household Blessings We thank you for our work and our rest, bake sale, tiki bar and beer garden. Vocations (@PBVocations); Diocese of ChancellorPalmBeach). and Prayers that can be used that for one another, and for our homes. Visit: http://stlukepalmsprings.org, day. Please note in observance of the We thank you, Lord: accept our thanksgiv- [email protected], Thanksgiving Day Holiday and Week- Catholic Church in Vero Beach. spiritual healing through prayer. ing on this day. 561-310-2514, 561-965-8190. end, the Pastoral Center will be closed We pray and give thanks through Jesus Arts and Crafts Show: Nov. Eirinn will be performing from his Appointments available on first “A Saxy Christmas” album, along three Mondays of the month from Nov. 28 and 29 so staff may celebrate Christ our Lord. 23-24, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Cathedral with their families. of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. with selections from his newest 7-8:30 p.m. in Mt. Carmel Hall. R: Amen. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. CD, HYMNS and his love-movie Contact Chantal at 561-302-1204. Come shoppers, come crafters to themed album, “Ten Love Stories.” Stations of the Cross for the 45th Annual Arts and Craft For additional information visit priests: Fourth Saturdays, Show at the Cathedral. Join us for sthelenvero.org/sounds-of-the- following 8:30 a.m. Mass, 10941 Southern Blvd., Royal Palm click on Offices/Safe Environments this two-day event in our new and season/. Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Beach. 561-793-0711, Mlexima@ or www.diocesepb.org/safe- expanded parish hall. Our crafters 60th Diamond Anniversary 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach ourqueen.org. environments. display made-by-hand treasures! Gala Auction: Dec. 6, 6-11 p.m., Gardens. 561-371-1658. School of Christian Our Lady of Florida Spiritual You will find holiday gift ideas, The Polo Club — Boca Raton, Monthly holy hour of prayer Formation: Designed for adult Center: Retreats and programs plus gifts for other occasions. 5400 Champion Blvd., Boca and adoration: Last Thursdays, Catholics who want to better available for clergy, religious, men, There is also a bake sale, 50/50 Raton. Celebrate St. Joan of Arc 7 p.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius know the Catholic faith and share women, married couples, singles raffle, kid’s activity corner and Parish’s Diamond Anniversary by Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm it with others through ministry. and people in recovery programs. snack bar. Free admission. All participating in this annual Gala Beach Gardens. Sacrament of English and Spanish classes. Cost: Location: 1300 U.S. Highway 1, crafters get special set up time on at The Polo Club. Sponsorships, reconciliation available. Evening of $10. Schedules: www.diocesepb. North Palm Beach. 561-626-1300 or Nov. 22nd. This is a main fundraiser advertising, raffle and donation simple praise and worship of Jesus org/school-of-christian-formation. www.ourladyofflorida.org. or our youth ministry program. For opportunities available. Visit present in the Eucharist. Social 561-775-9544, aaguilera@ applications or more information, one.bidpal.net/sja2019auction/ follows. 561-622-2565. diocesepb.org. please contact Dee Aitken at 561- welcome. Prayer gathering: Fridays, Permanent deacon CATHOLIC 622-2565. Hours each day: Nov. 23 The Singing Christmas Tree 5 p.m., on the sidewalks near A applications available: Men 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Nov. 24 8 a.m.-2 Concert: Dec. 6-7, 7-9 Woman’s World Medical Center interested in applying to become a CHARITIES EVENTS p.m., St. Peter Church, 1701 permanent deacon of the Diocese p.m. that offers abortion services, 503 S. Catholic Charities Respect Indian Creek Parkway, Jupiter. The of Palm Beach are asked to speak Community Thanksgiving 12th St., Fort Pierce. 772-465-8298. Life Ministry seeks volunteers to Singing Christmas Tree is a holiday to their pastors for permission Dinner: Nov. 28, 4 p.m., Emmanuel take on roles as respect life parish music concert presented by the to apply, and download the Church, 15700 S. Military Trail, representatives. Contact Deanna music ministry at St. Peter Catholic application from the diocesan Delray Beach. Are you alone DIOCESAN EVENTS Herbst, 561-360-3330, dherbst@ Church. It features a massive website, www.diocesepb.org/ this Thanksgiving? Join our ccdpb.org. Christmas tree/choir platform and Annual Lumen Christi deacon-formation. Deadline: parish youth group family for a Holy hour: First Fridays, 10:30 a light show. Music is provided by Scholarship Gala: Dec. 6, 6:30 Oct. 31. Classes begin in fall 2020 community Thanksgiving Dinner a.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius the combined choirs of St. Peter p.m., The Breakers, 1 South for men whose applications are filled with love and fellowship! Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Parish, including children and County Road, Palm Beach. Please approved by the committee on Musical entertainment will also Palm Beach Gardens. Prayer and bells, and accompanied by a live join us for Bishop Gerald M. admissions and scrutinies. 561-775- be provided by the Emmanuel adoration for those suffering after full symphony orchestra. Concert Barbarito’s annual dinner dance, 9540, [email protected]. Parish Men’s Choir. The dinner is abortion and miscarriage. offered free of charge. We kindly features an audience sing along. as we celebrate the 31st Annual Unbound healing prayer: First ask that you obtain a ticket at the Two performances: Friday at 7 p.m. Lumen Christi Scholarship Gala and third Mondays by confidential Respite services to St. Lucie parish office to track expected and Saturday at 7 p.m. Purchase for the benefit of Catholic school appointment. Diocese of Palm County caregivers: Short-term numbers of attendance. For more tickets online at stpeterjupiter. scholarships. The Diocese of Palm Beach Office of Marriage and or temporary care of a few hours a information, call 561-496-2480. com or call the parish office at 561- Beach allocates 100% of the net Family Life. Proven prayer model week. 561-360-3321. Music at St. Patrick, Free 575-0837. proceeds of the Lumen Christ designed to help those who try but Match grant program: Concert Series: Dec. 3, 7 p.m., Come and See Bible Study: Gala to tuition scholarships, struggle with the same sins time Services available for qualifying 13591 Prosperity Farms Rd., Palm Now through April 30, 2020, St. shared equally among the schools, and again and feel hopeless in individuals legally admitted into Beach Gardens. WHAT: Celtic Helen Church, 2085 Tallahassee enabling hundreds of students search for freedom. 561-775-9524, the United States under specific Angels Christmas – with The Ave, Vero Beach. Tuesdays, women to attend Catholic schools, both [email protected]. statuses. Program is designed to Trinity Band Ensemble of Dublin. and children at 9:30-10:45 a.m.; elementary and secondary. To Protection of Children facilitate client’s self-sufficiency FREE admission, with a free-will Tuesdays, men and women at purchase tickets, be added to and Young People: Victims through employment. Refugees, offering, open to the public. For 7-8:15 p.m.; Thursdays, men only at our mailing list, inquire about of abuse by church personnel asylees, Cuban and Haitian more information, contact Alan 6:45-7:45 a.m. Books available for Sponsorship Opportunities, or to are encouraged to contact the entrants, and victims of trafficking Bowman, director of music, at 561- $25. Visit sthelenvero.org/spiritual- receive information regarding Diocesan Victim Assistance can call for information and 626-8626 or alan@stpatrickchurch. life/bible-study/. the gala, please contact Shannon Coordinator, Lorraine Sabatella, appointments. 561-345-2000. org. Spiritual Healing Through Hennessy at 561-775-9520 or at 561-801-0999. Office of Safe Rosary gathering: First Sounds of the Season: Dec. Prayer Ministry: St. Jude [email protected]. Environments provides safety Saturdays, 9 a.m., near Presidential 5, 6:30-8 p.m., St. Helen Church, Church, 21689 Toledo Rd., Boca Monthly Mind Mass to resources, guidance and education Women’s Center in West Palm 2085 Tallahassee Ave, Vero Beach. Raton. Personal private healing remember departed souls: and training to employees, all Beach, 100 Northpoint Parkway, Eirinn Abu gives the saxophone a prayer for those in need of Second Saturdays, 10 a.m., Our church personnel and volunteers. West Palm Beach. Led by Respect new voice and sound at St. Helen physical, emotional, relational, or Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, Visit: www.diocesepb.org and Life Office. 561-360-3330. ANNOUNCEMENTS Catholic radio stations: WPBV Marcia J Mills, Attorney PLLC FM (98.3 FM, www.wpbv radio. com); WJPP (100.1 FM, www. Licensed FL MD DC NY wjppfm.com); and WDMC (920 AM, www.divinemercyradio.com). Women of Grace ministry program is seeking volunteers William E. Boyes 40 years of experience to facilitate study programs for English-speakers and also for John Farina Spanish-speakers. Training sessions Simple Wills: $100 are held at St. Joan of Arc Parish, Peter Matwiczyk 319 S.W. Third Street, Boca Raton. • Wills, trusts and guardianship litigation Trusts • POAs • Deeds • Probate Call Martha Nicolli, 561-212-8673 or [email protected]. • Estate and trust planning and administration Parish nurse meetings: Home Visits No Extra Charge Open to all registered nurses interested in health ministry. 3300 PGA Blvd., Suite 600 [email protected] Call Catholic Charities, Interfaith Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 [email protected] 4440 PGA Blvd., Ste. 600 12905-1122 Health and Wellness, 561-345- 2000, ext. 256; or email wellness@ 561-694-7979 [email protected] Palm Beach Gardens, FL 301-325-4928

11202-1122 catholiccharitiesdpb.org. Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A8

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Sacred Heart Catholic School, Lake Worth Editor’s note: In conjunction with Finneran Montessori Academy WHY SACRED HEART CATHOLIC SCHOOL the launch of the “Something for Early Learning and a variety Greater” campaign, the Diocese of learning programs. IS ‘SOMETHING GREATER’ of Palm Beach Office of Catholic As an addition to the enrich- “For Sacred Heart School students, something greater means having high Schools presents the “School ment program, the school has standards and high expectations. Our students respect who they are and strive Spotlight” series in August. selected a group of students to to be the best they can be — something greater.” This initiative is focused on participate in the LEGO Mind- — Tricia Duvall, interim principal showcasing the Catholic schools storms Robotics Program, where throughout the diocese that they will learn the assembling strive to be something greater and programming of the “EV3 Wally Findlay Gallery on Worth teachers regarding the gifted stu- in providing strong academics, Bricks,” the computer memory Avenue. Students have the op- dents on campus. The teachers in individualized attention, a that executes commands in a portunity to earn scholarships for the lab use a variety of resources tend Mass. holistic education, and full robot. A main objective is to pre- winning first and second place in and methods designed to help In addition, students spend spiritual development. pare for the first LEGO League the gallery. these students become academi- quiet time with Jesus through ad- competition next year. cally successful and increase their oration of the Blessed Sacrament, LAKE WORTH | As the sec- The school also offers a 3D INDIVIDUALIZED grade level abilities. Instructional praying the rosary and reconcili- ond oldest Catholic school in the design and printing class which ATTENTION TAILORED materials are researched based ation. Each class is scheduled for Diocese of Palm Beach, Sacred teaches students how to use a TO EACH STUDENT and highly effective, and technolo- a specific time throughout the Heart Catholic School has an es- browser-based CAD software The Cathleen McFarlane Ross gy is also used with the implemen- school day to participate in these tablished history of excellence in system and discusses the appli- Learning Lab at Sacred Heart tation of computer-based reading, religious activities. education. As a faith community cation of 3D printing in many in- School provides remedial and/or writing, and math programs. enthroned in the Sacred Heart dustries. In addition, the school intensive instruction in language INITIATIVES IN SUPPORT of Jesus, the school’s mission is participated in the Hour of Code arts and mathematics. Students FOSTERING OF OF A WHOLISTIC to provide students — of diverse in April. Students were engaged attend the lab from one to three SPIRITUAL GROWTH IN EDUCATION cultures and abilities — an edu- in an hour of activities follow- periods per day and the remain- FACULTY AND STUDENTS Students at Sacred Heart cation of excellence in a Christ- ing instructions on how to code der of the day is spent in main- Prayer is an integral part of the School participate in classroom centered environment, encour- movements for their character in stream classes. school day. Students begin each and school-wide service projects. age them to live the Gospel values the MineCraft world of coding. The Learning Lab is designed day with prayer, and pray at the Last year, students raised one full of love, peace, justice, respect, Fourth and seventh grade stu- for students identified as hav- beginning of each class, before truckload of canned goods that and service and prepare them for dents participate in activities ing exceptional learning needs meals and a final prayer con- helped put food on the table for success in higher education and related to saving the Everglades such as speech and language cludes each day. 100 needy families in Palm Beach life. and learn the importance of the impaired, a specific learning dis- Students attend weekly liturgy County. In addition, the Nation- Everglades National Park. For ability, autism spectrum disor- at Sacred Heart Parish, includ- al Junior Honor Society hosted NOTABLE these activities, students learn ders or other conditions. ing any holy days of obligation a school-wide cleaning supply ACADEMICS AND to use digital cameras, as they The Learning Lab staff consists and Ash Wednesday. Each week, drive. The cleaning supplies were EXTRACURRICULARS spend the day taking photo- of full-time ESE certified teachers, an individual class prepares the donated to Adopt a Family of the Sacred Heart surpasses con- graphs to document what they educators trained in the Orton- liturgy, with students in fourth Palm Beaches to help families temporary national trends in find in the Arthur R. Marshall Ev- Gillingham and Wilson Reading through eighth grade participat- that have recently found resi- curriculum. It offers low teach- erglades Refuge. The photos are Programs, and a gifted endorsed ing as altar servers. Parents and dences after being homeless. n er/student ratio, the William B. then framed and exhibited at the teacher who confers with the lab family members are invited to at- Diocesan educators exemplify faith in action

CECILIA PADILLA of Palm Beach. “This event allows tion between various schools FYI health of malnourished children of the Florida Catholic staff students and the community to throughout the diocese. Tessie and provide a reliable source of witness that the diocese priori- O’Dea, Cross Catholic Outreach To donate to the “Something food to orphanages, schools and Greater Food Packing Event,” please PALM BEACH GARDENS | tizes these key values to not only relationship development man- hungry families. Meals are then contact the Office of Catholic Schools at For the Diocese of Palm Beach, invest in the future of establish- ager, shared her enthusiasm 561-775-9548. sealed in airtight packets to pro- the heart of Catholic education ing high academic standards, but for the unification of Catholic long shelf-life and maximize the is putting faith into practice, es- revealing there’s more to life than schools through this project. Stay up to date with this event by number of meals shipped in each pecially through service projects personal success: there’s moral “This project is the first of its following the Office of Catholic Schools container. on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @ that center on community build- character, service to the commu- kind for Cross Catholic Outreach DoPBCatholicSchools. Visit diocese- “Although money is necessary ing and outreach. That’s why, as nity and ever-present faith.” and the diocese. We haven’t had pbschools.org for more news and to do what we do, it’s easy to write a larger part of the “Something The food packing event will multiple entities working on one information on the Diocese of Palm a check and feel like you helped Greater” marketing campaign take place at three locations — food packing event simultane- Beach Catholic schools. solve a problem. I’m proud of our launched in August, the Diocese Cardinal Newman High School ously before and it will be excit- Catholic school teachers for being of Palm Beach Office of Catho- in West Palm Beach, John Car- ing to see different age groups role models for our students and lic Schools is collaborating with roll High School in Fort Pierce and backgrounds come together go hungry every day, and Cross stepping up to take action and get Cross Catholic Outreach to serve and St. Joan of Arc School in to act as the living body of Christ Catholic Outreach has dedicated involved. I strongly believe that the hungry in developing coun- Boca Raton. More than 400 edu- in our community.” time and energy into identifying Catholic youth can change the tries through a special food pack- cators and administrators from Cross Catholic Outreach, what malnourished populations world, but we, as adults, need to ing event on Jan. 17. the 17 diocesan Catholic schools which is a nonprofit relief and need in order to recover and sur- guide them and be a testimony as “One of the cornerstones of will come together to assemble development ministry, provides vive. leaders of faith,” O’Dea said. our ‘Something Greater’ mar- 120,000 packaged meals ar- food, shelter, medical care, water, The meals utilized by the or- Likewise, Trefelner recognized keting campaign is the fact that ranged through Cross Catholic education, self-help programs, ganization are called Vitafood, the significance of this project in we are challenging students to Outreach. Students from each care for orphans and emergency which is a nutrient-rich food creating well-rounded faith-filled think beyond the classroom and school are responsible for raising relief to the poorest of the poor in product scientifically designed to students. “Events like this remind to make a life-long impact on $30,000, about $5 per student, to local dioceses and in countries meet the dietary needs of chroni- me, and all of us, that our Dio- their community and Church,” fund the assembling of the food like the Dominican Republic, cally malnourished children cese of Palm Beach schools are said Jennifer Trefelner, director packs. Haiti, Guatemala and Nicaragua. and adults. The fortiﬁed rice, truly something greater, not only of communications, marketing What makes this service O’Dea explained that nearly one vegetable and soy products are in their mission, but also in their and social media for the Diocese project unique is the collabora- billion people around the world designed to quickly restore the actions.” n WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 FLORIDACatholic VENICE DIOCESE

Above, Father Edward Martin, with the Knights of Columbus Color Corps, take a moment of silence in front of the graves of Sarasota National Cemetery following a Diocesan Mass on Veterans Day. Below, those attending the Mass stand for the singing of the National Anthem. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) Veterans Day Mass honors Students from St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School place American Flags in vases during a Veterans Day Mass in military service, sacrifice Naples. (COURTESY) BOB REDDY of the Florida Catholic staff

SARASOTA | It was in 1919 when the first celebration of Veterans Day took place. It was then known as Remembrance Day, as Nov. 11, 1919 marked the anniversary of the end to World War I, the “war to end all wars.” On the 100th anniversary of Veterans Day, and for the 10th year in a row, the Diocese of Venice celebrated a Catholic Mass at Sarasota National Cemetery with more than 1,300 people in attendance. “What a wonderful day,” said Charles Thatcher of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Sarasota who served with the U.S. Marines from 1958-1967. He was wounded in combat while serving in Vietnam and was medically dis- charged. Wearing a pin with the Marine Corps emblem, Thatcher said he is happy that the Diocese pays tribute to the veterans with the annual Mass at the National Cem- Above left, Father Edward Martin speaks during a Diocesan Mass on Veterans Day in Patriots Plaza at the Sarasota etery. National Cemetery. Above right, participants sing the National Anthem at the Mass’ closing. “This Mass is an important reminder,” Thatcher added. “Once we served and took off the uniform and entered civil- defense of liberty, something enjoyed to this day thanks to with a procession, escorted by the Knights of Columbus Color ian life many people tend to forget about what we sacrificed. those who served and sacrificed for this nation dating back to Corps, to the nearby graves as those in attendance sang “God My sacrifice was the loss of a few fingers and part of my sight. George Washington. Bless America.” Priests, Deacons, and the Knights of Colum- I have friends who lost everything. They are who we really “Our freedom and liberty are ultimately our greatest re- bus Color Corps and all present, gathered in silent prayer be- honor, those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom sponsibility,” Father Martin said. “We are free because we fore “Taps” was played on a bugle. we all enjoy.” have men and women heroes who are champions of courage There are 20,900 veterans and eligible family members Father Edward Martin, who served 20 years as a U.S. Army and choose to put their very lives on the line to protect that currently interred in the National Cemetery and more than 19 Chaplain and is Temporary Administrator of St. Isabel Par- freedom.” million military veterans in the United States. ish in Sanibel, celebrated the Mass for Bishop Frank J. De- Adding to the dignity and ceremony of the day were active The Diocese of Venice coordinates the Catholic Mass at wane, who was unable to attend due to a commitment at the and retired veterans — some of whom attended in uniform, as the National Cemetery with the support of the Knights of annual meeting of the United States Conference of Catholic well as the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus who formed a Columbus. One of the graves is that of Father Robert G. Tier- Bishops. More than a dozen Priests and several Deacons Color Corps, and many other Knights who were there to sup- ney, a former assistant at St. Joseph Parish in Bradenton, who joined Father Martin. port the veterans. served in the U.S. Navy. Father Tierney died in 2006 and was Father Martin thanked the veterans for their service in The Sarasota National Cemetery celebration concluded one of the first people buried in the cemetery. n Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 2 You are called to be ‘A Disciple of Christ’

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in more united to Him in the daily Christ, life of each Liturgical Season. In this Advent With Advent on the horizon, we To be A Disciple of Christ does ought to prepare our hearts for the not mean only to follow Him in Season, be coming of Jesus. This Season of external practices and the tradi- encouraged FLORIDA anticipation and longing tions of the Church, but to allows all of us to welcome respond to Jesus from the to take ... Catholic God’s invitation to become heart in loving obedience opportunities DIOCESE OF VENICE A Disciple of Christ. This and trust. We remember brings to mind the dis- the rich young man who Vol. 81, No. 2 ciples in the early Church approached Jesus asking that lead you and the great sacrifice that what must be done to in- to be A Disciple 1000 Pinebrook Road they lived day in and day herit eternal life. Although Venice, FL 34285 out. FROM THE he had followed the com- of Christ. Take The call to be A Disci- 941-484-9543 • Fax 941-483-1121 BISHOP mandments since his ple of Christ thus requires youth, Jesus extols him to Christ into your PUBLISHER a response from you! It make sacrifices, sell his Bishop Frank Dewane Frank J. home; take Christ may involve speaking out, Dewane things, give to the poor, DIOCESAN EDITOR giving up certain things and follow Him (Cf. Mat- into your heart! Bob Reddy in your life, or even tak- thew 19:21). This is more [email protected] ing on extra responsibilities. But than just money, Jesus is calling the A lit Advent wreath. (CNS) 941-484-9543 the reality is, and Pope Francis young man to rid himself of distrac- has said this well, “We cannot be tions and attachments in order to be lationship with Christ, and thus to In this Advent Season, be en- • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: tepid disciples. The Church needs A Disciple of Christ. The young man begin the journey to be a Disciple, couraged to take advantage of Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, our courage in order to give wit- goes away sad, but that is the last are all around us. There are dif- these steps, programs, and op- or customerservice@theflorida ness to truth.” heard of him in the Gospel. To be a ferent prayer and/or study groups portunities that lead you to be A catholic.org Beginning with the Advent Sea- disciple, one must respond willfully with which to be involved. There Disciple of Christ. Take Christ into Notify us of address changes (temporary son of 2019 and to celebrate the and daily to Christ’s call and follow are areas of outreach to families, your home; take Christ into your or permanent) as soon as possible. Please 35th Anniversary of the Diocese of not only His teaching, but His ex- to the homeless, to the marginal- heart! Prepare to receive Him in a change your address online at www. Venice, the Diocese is launching a ample as well. Don’t go away sad, ized and those on the peripheries, new and transformative way this thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at campaign for all to become A Dis- become A Disciple of Christ! as Pope Francis would tell us. Many Season as we also look forward to 1-888-275-9953. ciple of Christ. The campaign will There is also an emphasis on Diocesan programs, conferences, His Second Coming, for in this life run through the Liturgical Sea- that period of “becoming.” You and resources are also available to there is nothing of greater impor- • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at sons beginning with Advent, then may think, “I am already following accompany you and enrich your tance for us. 407-373-0075 or [email protected] Christmas, a portion of Ordinary Christ” but the call is to intention- journey. Rest assured of my prayers for • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at Time, Lent, Easter, and conclud- ally choose to become A Disciple It is understood that programs you and your family and please 1-888-275-9953, or ing with Pentecost. These Seasons of Christ each and every day. Every do not make disciples, but some- keep me in your prayers as we con- [email protected] allow each of us to discover and moment provides an opportunity times they are needed to help us tinue our journey together to be ev- experience what it means to be A to be filled with Christ’s love. Allow become more, to live the Gospel. ermore A Disciple of Christ. State Offices:50 E. Robinson St., Suite Disciple of Christ. The Liturgical it to transform your heart and life. This “more” is meant to bring you G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- Calendar provides an emphasis Then bring this love to your fam- deeper in your personal relation- Sincerely yours in Christ, free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 on how to live during each Season ily, your friends, and as well to your ship with Christ in such a way that with its special focus; how to per- enemies. it becomes not merely a part of your Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: sonally follow Jesus and become Opportunities to deepen your re- life but frames you in all that you do. Bishop of Venice in Florida Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu Office Manager: Kristen Maheu APPOINTMENTS Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael TWO MAKE FIRST VOWS After broad consultation, Bishop Frank J. Dewane announces the following: Carlock Advertising Graphic Designer: Nov. 8: Vicar of St. James Parish and San- Michael Jimenez tiago Mission, Lake Placid. Msgr. Gerard Finegan, retired Have a comment/want more info/ as Pastor of St. Mary Star of the Sea Nov. 25: Parish, Longboat Key. have a story suggestion? Leave your Father Luis Albarracin, from feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; Father Phillip Schweda, as Priest-in-Charge of Sacred Heart Par- click reader feedback link in the top menu. from Parochial Vicar of St. Mary Star ish, Bradenton, to Part-time Parochial of the Sea Parish, Longboat Key, to Vicar of St. Leo the Great Parish, Send statewide news releases to Temporary Administrator. [email protected] Bonita Spring. Nov. 18 Father Elbano Munoz, from Pa- rochial Vicar of St. Peter the Apostle Father Victor Caviedes, from All contents copyright © 2019, The Florida Parish, Naples, to Administrator of Parochial Vicar of St. James Parish, Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from Sacred Heart Parish, Bradenton. Catholic News Service. Lake Placid, to Parochial Vicar of St. Jude Parish, Sarasota. Father Carlos Encinas, to Pa- rochial Vicar of St. Peter the Apostle Father Felix Gonzalez, from Parish, Naples. Two women from St. Michael Parish in Wauchula, professed their first Parochial Vicar of St. Leo the Great vows for the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara Nov. 1 in Parish, Bonita Springs, to Parochial Washington, D.C. They are Maria Esposa de San Jose Miramontes, front row third from left, and Maria Ancilla Crucis Torres, front row fourth from left. (COURTESY)

STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS homelessness, immigration reform, “Human life is sacred ... and we Bishop natural disasters, trade, and much need to approach this with the full Frank J. BALTIMORE | The most recent more. strength of our teaching,” Bishop Dewane U.S. Conference of Catholic Bish- During a Nov. 11 presentation the Dewane said. speaks op’s General Assembly in Baltimore General Assembly, Bishop Dewane The USCCB is not seeking a total during the fall general marked the end of a three-year term said Catholic clergy and lay leaders limit to handguns but would wel- assembly for Bishop Frank J. Dewane as chair can play a role in bringing together come broader background checks of the U.S. of the Conference Committee on people to build understanding of and some limits on gun ownership. Conference Domestic Justice and Human De- the need for sensible policies that While common sense restrictions of Catholic velopment, but not before calling can end the scourge of gun vio- on guns would be no different than Bishops in for an end to gun violence and en- lence. Sadly, just a few days after the those already in place on prescrip- Baltimore couraging civility in voters. presentation, a school shooting in tion drugs and drivers. The Bishop Nov. 11. During that span, Bishop De- California left three dead and oth- suggested the restrictions are not (BOB wane spoke on behalf of the U.S. ers wounded. the full solution. ROLLER Conference on issues of health Outlining the USCCB’s long-held “Such regulations are helpful, | CNS) care, human dignity, human rights, stance of the need for “common but they will not ban gun violence development, poverty and justice. sense” legislation that governs the completely. For that to happen, we voting. of healing in our families, commu- Bishop Dewane was elected availability of guns, the Bishop also need new ways of thinking,” he con- A new year-long initiative invites nities, and country. “Civilize It: Dig- to the post in 2015 and served as pointed to the need to address gun tinued. Catholics to model civility, love for nity Beyond the Debate” is a call for chairman-elect before taking the violence, which has ravaged many Bishop Dewane also urged so- neighbor, and respectful dialogue. Catholics to honor the human dig- chair in November 2016. In three urban centers, while acknowledg- ciety to look at the “danger signs The program, “Civilize It: Dignity nity of each person they encounter, years as chair, the Bishop advocated ing the legitimate concerns among in others that can lead to the loss Beyond the Debate” asks Catholics whether it is online, at the dinner on behalf of the faithful by sending responsible gun owners of losing of empathy (and see) early signs of to commit to civility, clarity, and table, or in the pews next to them. letters to President Donald Trump access to firearms for hunting or, in self-inwardness… As a society we compassion in their families, com- I invite all Catholics to participate and to the U.S. Senate and House of some cases, protection. have become less and less empa- munities, and parishes, and call on in “Civilize It.” In doing so, they can Representatives, as well as person- In 1975, the USCCB issued its thetic ourselves, a clear sign that we others to do the same. (A link to the bear witness to a better way, ap- ally lobbying the Senate and House. first major statement on guns and all are, to a degree, becoming dan- pledge is available on the Diocese proach conversations with civility, In addition, he made more than 100 have since addressed gun violence, gerous.” of Venice website www.dioce- clarity, and compassion, and invite statements on a variety of issues outlining the Conference’s concern During the General Assembly, seofvenice.org.) others to do the same.” and was interviewed by a variety of that lives are being needlessly lost the Bishops approved adding new Bishop Dewane emphasized the At the conclusion of the General news outlets. because of the widening availabil- materials to complement “Form- importance of “Civilize It” in the Assembly Bishop Dewane handed Among the topics he addressed ity of guns, including military-style ing Consciences for Faithful Citi- context of the current divisive cli- over the leadership of the Commit- include: civility in politics, gun weapons. However, the latest call zenship,” which is a voting refer- mate: “Conversation in the public tee to Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of control, the death penalty, the fed- goes beyond legislative efforts and ence from the committee Bishop square is all too often filled with Oklahoma City. n eral budget and legislative actions, appears to open the door for Church chaired, and a long-standing guide personal attacks and words that the opioid crisis, climate change, leaders to seek a common ground in to help Catholics form their con- assume the worst about those with Catholic News Service contrib- agriculture, health care, civil rights, addressing gun violence. sciences in public life, including whom we disagree. We are in need uted to this report. Prison outreach volunteers recognized for compassion

BOB REDDY ity and share in the goodness that of the Florida Catholic staff comes from within the person.” Bishop Dewane, who himself PORT CHARLOTTE | The men celebrates Mass at jails and prisons and women who enter the jails and within the Diocese of Venice more prisons scattered throughout the than a dozen times each year, said Diocese of Venice serve a crucial the volunteers who participate in role to a segment of society that is prison outreach touch the heart of too commonly dismissed and for- the incarcerated because they talk gotten. to them about the Lord. The Bishop, The nearly 150 prison outreach who admitted that his first prison volunteers were recognized for their visits, while working in Rome, work by Bishop Frank J. Dewane caused so much nervousness, said during a Mass of Appreciation Nov. his visits have impacted him in dif- 8 at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in ferent ways. Port Charlotte. The outreach pro- When celebrating the Mass vides a variety of services, including for the incarcerated, the Bishop Diocese of Venice Prison Outreach volunteers are seen Nov. 8 following Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe Bible study, religious education and said he knows he is bringing the Parish in Port Charlotte with Bishop Frank J. Dewane. (BOB REDDY | FC) assistance with receiving the sacra- forgiveness, mercy, compassion, ments such as Baptism, First Holy peace, love and joy of the Lord within the Diocese, meaning the eryn Kovalyshin of State Region them and when you are there you Communion and Confirmation. to others. Since his appointment need is great. 3 (which includes the entire Dio- recognize Christ’s image in those “Thank you for what you do,” as Bishop of the Diocese in 2006, A program for the volunteers fol- cese). who you visit … What we all do is Bishop Dewane said to the gathered Bishop Dewane has conferred the lowed the Mass and encompassed a Frambo said his sole job to en- to answer God’s call, who uses us to volunteers. “Your service comes Sacraments of Confirmation, First number of presentations, including sure the continued access of volun- changes lives.” from the heart. You have the insight Communion and Baptism for nu- updates on the process of imple- teers to enter the state prisons and Bishop Dewane was joined at and the desire to see the need and merous inmates. menting a new bereavement pro- minister to the incarcerated and the Mass by several concelebrat- to serve those who are on the mar- Bob Hiniker, who helps to co- gram into the facilities; the plan to vowed that if they face any obstacle ing priests, many of who also serve gins—our brothers and sisters in ordinate the prison outreach expand a job readiness program; that they need only contact him di- in area jails and prisons. In all, 25 Christ who are incarcerated.” throughout the Diocese, stressed and a new restorative justice effort rectly. There are 95,000 inmates in priests and 12 deacons serve in The volunteers in prison out- the importance to continue to ex- called “Bridges to Life.” the state prison system which are prison outreach. reach have the foresight to help pand the number of people who The group was also blessed to divided into four regions. Of the those they serve to focus on the volunteer in the five state prisons, have two special guests, Florida 95,000, nearly 10% are Catholic. For those interested in becoming a future and not the past, the Bishop 10 county jails and one civil com- Department of Corrections State “Catholic volunteers do a won- prison outreach volunteer, contact added. “You do not judge. You look mitment program. There are ap- Chaplaincy Administrator Johnny derful job throughout the state,” Robert Hiniker at 863-558-0407 or into their eyes and see the human- proximately 15,000 incarcerated Frambo and Chaplain Father Sev- Frambo said. “You are among [email protected]. Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 4 Ave Maria University announces its new president STAFF REPORT University of Steubenville. He cur- are fully confident he will build on the Board interviewed the finest of recognized as a Catholic univer- rently serves as chief executive offi- the fine foundation that our found- these individuals, the Board met on sity and his development of course AVE MARIA | Christopher P. Ice cer of Catholic Charities er, Tom Monaghan, and Nov. 7 to elect Ice. selection and the establishment has been elected as the third presi- of Kansas City-St. Joseph President Jim Towey “It is an honor to be chosen to of the Mother Teresa Program and dent of Ave Maria University by the (Missouri), a position he have put in place, and lead this great Catholic university,” Museum. Board of Trustees in an announce- has held since 2017. Ice take the University to Ice said. “I look forward to immers- Ave Maria University was found- ment made Nov. 8. Ice will begin his and his wife, Mary, are new heights.” ing myself in campus life and with- ed in 2003 on a temporary campus presidency Jan. 1, 2020. parents of seven children Towey is in his ninth in the town of Ave Maria.” in Naples and moved to its perma- Ice comes to the university with ages 10 to 29, and grand- year as president of Ave Bishop Frank J. Dewane, who nent campus in 2007. Enrollment a deep passion for Catholic, liberal parents of one. Maria University. Upon is a non-voting member of the has nearly tripled, with the current arts education, many years of expe- “Ave Maria Univer- his announcement to Board, praised the Board’s choice undergraduate population num- rience as an executive in the corpo- sity is fortunate to have step down in 2020, the of Ice, noting that the new president bering 1,082 students, as have the rate and private sectors as well as a leader of Chris Ice’s University conducted a brings the right qualities necessary number of majors offered to stu- Catholic non-profit organizations. caliber who is whole- Christopher Ice national search for his to lead Ave Maria University into dents, which now stands at 32 and He also holds an impressive back- heartedly committed to successor, attracting the future. The Bishop also praised includes nursing, biochemistry, ground of fundraising in Catholic our Catholic mission,” said Patrick dozens of highly qualified appli- Towey for his tenure as president biology, theology, business admin- higher education at Franciscan Rainey, Chairman of the Board. “We cants. After a search committee of that helped the institution become istration and education. n Memorial Mass for Deacons offered BOB REDDY served in the Diocese of Venice the belief that they had in giving of the Florida Catholic staff since its founding in 1984, not just glory and praise to God through- to remember them, but to thank out their life — each according to VENICE | November is an ap- them for answering the call of the a particular role as a Deacon or a propriate time to remember those Lord in a precise way, Bishop De- spouse.” who have died, that they may wane explained. “We come together for a Memo- someday be accepted into heaven. As part of this annual tradition, rial Mass not only to give praise For this reason, Bishop Frank during the Prayer Intentions, the to Christ but to commend the de- J. Dewane invites the Permanent names of those who have passed ceased to God’s tender mercy and Deacons and their wives to partici- away during the previous year are compassion and to seek strength pate in a Memorial Mass each year solemnly read as candles are lit in in the proclamation of the Paschal as a time to pray for, honor and their honor. Included in the list of Mystery,” Bishop Dewane contin- remember the Deacons and their names this year were Deacon Joe ued. “So, we honor not just the in- wives who have passed away. The Bortland, Deacon Frank Cama- dividual but that glory and praise 2019 Mass was celebrated Nov. 5, at cho, Deacon Ed Lundy, Deacon Ed they gave to God.” Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat McCarthy and Deacon Sam Puleo, Deacon Michael Reardon, the Center in Venice. Today, there are as well as Asuncion Guzman, Mae Diocese Director of Diaconate Per- more than 73 Permanent Deacons, Ochner, and Sandi Paniccia. sonnel, who spoke on behalf of the many seasonal, living and serving “We gather here to give praise for deacons and their spouses who throughout the Diocese. Christ’s victory over sin and death, were present for the Mass, thanked The goal of the Memorial Mass and to remember those who came Bishop Dewane for the Mass and Deacon Richard Klish lights candles of remembrance during a is to bring attention to all the Dea- before us,” Bishop Dewane added. his ongoing support of the Deacons Memorial Mass for Deacons and their Spouses. (BOB REDDY | FC) cons, and their spouses, who have “The memory of their sacrifice and serving in the Diocese. n PRINCIPAL’S CORNER Cardinal Mooney serves students and their community BEN HOPPER faith ready for service to the com- According to Sarah Averbeck, a the Community.” On any given have such a selfless group of car- Special to the Florida Catholic munity. 2019 Mooney graduate, “Mrs. La- Saturday during the school year, ing young adults give their time During the journey through Femina is a lifesaver. I would not many of our students who are and hearts to our remarkable SARASOTA | In front of Cardi- Mooney, students encounter be where I am today without her. members of The Miracle League differently-abled athletes. We nal Mooney Catholic High School, teachers, advisors, coaches, and Her endless support, kindness, Club can be found on the baseball couldn’t do what we do without there is a sign that reads “You be- counselors who help them realize and love for her job does not go diamond helping differently-abled the Cardinal Mooney High School long here!” This simple yet capti- their God-given poten- unnoticed. She wants individuals hit the ball, run the Miracle League Club.” Not only do vating phrase is an invitation for tial and to pursue their to see all of her students bases, and have a sense of belong- these students serve as models of students to become part of the passions. One of these succeed in life, therefore ing. Under the direction of English our faith through their service, but Mooney community. individuals is Ann LaFe- she goes above and be- teacher and club advisor Betty they also belong to a student body From humble beginnings in mina, the school’s col- yond for the community Rogers, our students have part- that completes more than 20,000 1959 in the Beall Plaza in down- lege advisor. Navigating with which she works.” nered with the Miracle League service hours each year. town Sarasota to the evolving vi- the college application Sarah and the other Manasota. The club’s mission is to Whether students are studying brant campus at its location today, and admission process 103 graduates in the instill in all students the respect in the classroom, playing on the Cardinal Mooney has provided is not an easy task. Class of 2019 earned an and dignity for all individuals and field, singing on stage, or praying a college-preparatory education LaFemina assists the impressive $9 million in to help create an environment in in the chapel, a sense of belong- centered on Gospel values for seniors and their fami- scholarship offers. The which all people will be treated ing is the common theme for the thousands of students over the past lies through this daunt- Ben Hopper collective success of the equally. There are Miracle Leagues Mooney community which ex- sixty years. ing challenge by person- Mooney community is throughout the United States, but tends well after graduation. We are Embracing the uniqueness alizing the college and scholarship represented by our 100% gradua- Cardinal Mooney has the only Mooney and want you to be a part of each student entrusted to our application process, hosting more tion rate and 98% of graduates at- high school club affiliated with the of us too. n care, we provide an educational than seventy colleges and univer- tending college while the other 2% league. experience which culminates with sities at the college fair and for ad- pursue the military or workforce. According to Beaver Shriver, Ben Hopper serves as principal of graduates who are committed life- mission visits, and taking students In addition to college readiness, Miracle League Manasota Board Cardinal Mooney Catholic High long learners ready for college and on a three-day bus tour of 11 col- students are taught to embrace the Member, “Miracle League Mana- School. For more information, active examples of their Catholic leges in Florida. school’s motto — “Serving God in sota is blessed and honored to visit www.cmhs-sarasota.org. 5 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

Above left, members of the board of St. Vincent de Paul Naples District Council, along with Father Timothy Navin, pastor of San Marco Parish, third from right, cut a ribbon which formally opened the new Thrift Store in East Naples. Above right, Father Navin blesses the store. St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store opens in East Naples BOB REDDY can ask for in a thrift store. erates Meals on Wheels (serving of the Florida Catholic staff Judging by the long lines at the more than 250 people each day), as Lots of check-out, good bargains could be well as a Choice Food Pantry, which items and NAPLES | After nearly two years, found. Each of the first-day patrons helps about 70 people daily. bargains the Naples District Council of the were given a cookbook as a special It was in September 2017 when could be Society of St. Vincent DePaul has gift. Hurricane Irma destroyed the pre- found at completed its recovery from Hurri- Father Timothy Navin, Pastor of vious thrift store on Davis Boule- the St. cane Irma with the grand opening San Marco Parish, blessed the new vard, leaving a single store in Bonita Vincent of its new thrift store in East Naples store and participated in the ribbon Springs the only steady source of in- de Paul opposite the Town Center Mall. cutting. “This is very impressive.” come for the Naples District Coun- Thrift Store. The anticipation for the opening Candice Burke, who found a cil to operate. (PHOTOS BY BOB was so strong that a line of people shawl, lamps, bookends and a door Jose Granda, president of the REDDY | FC) was ready to peruse the wide se- decoration, said she loved the new District Council, said the destruc- lection of merchandise in the store store. “It is so welcoming and invit- tion of the former Davis Boulevard nearly two hours before the sched- ing,” Burke said. “The prices were store caused a significant decrease uled grand opening Nov. 9. great, so I know I will be back again in revenue that was sorely required “The response has been wonder- soon because I am always looking to further the aid to the needy in the store will help provide some of “This location is great, but we are ful,” Kim Schul, executive director for a bargain.” the Naples area which the Council this needed income so that we can also limited in how much we can of the Council, said. “This is big deal With the funds generated provides. continue our many programs to aid store, so turnover of items will be for us. It has been a long process for through the thrift stores and gen- “We can now put that behind us the poor in our area,” he said. key,” she explained. us to get here. We found the right erous individual donations, the with this beautiful new location,” The new facility, located at 3810 The Council also operates a thrift space in the right location, right on Council provides a variety of ser- Granda said. Tamiami Trail E., is open for busi- store at 3725 Bonita Beach Road in U.S. 41.” vices while working closely with It is hoped that the new store will ness in the Sherwin-Williams plaza, Bonita Springs and a Boutique store With a selection of items from eight area parishes. Those services enable the Council to “ramp up” 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Sat- in Unit 7 at the same address. armoires, recliners, couches and include emergency family assis- aid to the needy through expansion urday. The location will also serve Car and furniture donation pick- other types of furniture to cloth- tance to about 18,000 per year and into new programs and restora- as a drop-off point for donations ups can be arranged by calling 239- ing for all occasions — a day at the can consist of financial support and tion of others which were cut back which will be cataloged, sorted and 775-2907. Donations of clothing and beach or even a wedding — the new vouchers for items from the thrift in response to the revenue losses, out on the sales floor as quickly as other items may be dropped off at store has just about everything one stores. In addition, the Council op- Granda explained. “I am hopeful possible, Schul said. any of the Council stores. n

NEWSbriefs

Students ‘Make a Difference’ School 5K promotes fitness On Nov. 8, St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral participated in More than 250 of students, teachers, families and sponsors of St. Joseph Catholic School community gath- Make a Difference day as parent volunteers accompanied the more than ered at the Riverwalk in downtown Bradenton Nov. 9 for its inaugural Run Like an Eagle Fit 4 Life 5K. Cohosted 100 middle schoolers to area businesses and nonprofits in service. They by St. Joseph Catholic School and New Balance, the Fit 4 Life event was a culmination of a five-week training worked to clean landscaping, stock pantry items, help in the kitchen and program that introduced students to the value of a healthy lifestyle through the joy of running. The event in- with office tasks among other things. Afterwards, students, teachers, and cluded a 100-yard dash, a quarter mile run and a half-mile run. The school raised more than $10,000 through parent volunteers gathered for lunch at Cape Coral Yacht Club. event registrations, corporate sponsor ships and individual donations. Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 6 Girls’ volleyball, Diocesan swimmers win state titles

STAFF REPORT

VENICE | Three Diocese of Ven- ice Catholic High School swimmers took home state titles during the Nov. 9 Class 1A state championships at Sailfish Splash Park and Aquatics Center in Stuart. Just one week later, on Nov. 16, the Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School girls’ volleyball team from Sarasota took the Class 3A state championship Nov. 16 at Suncoast Credit Arena in Fort Myers. Michaela Mattes, of Cardinal Mooney, took the swim title in the 500 freestyle; Conor Cranfield of Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers also took the top prize in 500 freestyle; while Maddy Burt of St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples took first in the 100 butterfly. Above left, the Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School Lady Cougars volleyball team are the Florida Class 3A State Champions. They won the Michaela finished her race in title at Suncoast Credit Arena in Fort Myers. Above, right, state title holders for swimming Michaela Mattes of Cardinal Mooney Catholic a time 4:46.59, which puts her as a High School in Sarasota, left, Conor Cranfield of Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers; and Maddy Burt of St. John Neumann qualifier for All-American status. High School, Naples. (COURTESY PHOTOS) In addition, she also took silver in the 200 individual medley in a time medals by finishing seventh in the State Title. This was the same race for the team and comes just one championship in cross country. of 2:02.74. The Mooney boys took 400 freestyle relay and eighth in the in 2018 during which she earned a year after losing in the final of the The Verot girls’ team finished 12th 15th in the team 200 medley relay. 200 medley relay. Teammate Ryan silver. She also earned a medal by 2018 state championship. overall and boys placed 27th over- The Mooney girls team ranked 14th Stunch also earned a medal by fin- finishing 6th in the 50 freestyle. The In cross country, the Neumann all. Meanwhile, the Mooney girls’ overall, while the boys ranked 28th. ishing fifth in the 500 freestyle. The girls finished 15th as a team. girls finished 27th overall in the team finished 25th overall. Conor became the State Champi- team ranked 11th overall. The Mooney girls’ volleyball Nov. 9 1A state championships at Lastly, the Verot boys’ bowling on with a time of 4:26.66, also quali- Maddy won her 100 butterfly race team defeated Westminster Chris- Apalachee Regional Park in Talla- team took 25th place at the Nov. 5-6 fying for All-American status. He with a time of 53.69, qualifying for tian of Miami in five sets on the hassee. The Verot boys’ and girls’ state championships at the Board- took 5th in 200 freestyle, and was All-American status. She is the first campus of Florida SouthWestern teams, as well as Mooney girls’ walk Bowl Entertainment Center in part of the Verot team that earned Neumann swimmer to ever win a State College. This was the first title team, qualified for the 2A state Orlando. n

“ Live with good humor and just do the Lord’s work,” says Franciscan Sister de Lourdes Okoniewski (left), 87. Please give at your local parish December 7–8. To donate by mail: Retirement Fund National Religious Retirement Ofﬁ ce/FLA 3211 4th Street NE Washington DC 20017-1194 for Religious Make check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious.

Please give to those who have given a lifetime. retiredreligious.org 13492-1122

©2019 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photo: Jim Judkis 7 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Annual Hispanic Festival draws thousands

STAFF REPORT wore shirts proclaiming to everyone sic, the dancing or the joy of being their country of origin. Throughout around so many happy people, the SARASOTA | The 17th annual the day, there were performances Hispanic Festival was rated a mas- Hispanic Festival at St. Jude Par- from a variety of countries, offering sive success by any measure. ish was another rousing success as both modern and traditional music Thousands attend the event an estimated 14,000 descended on and dance. annually from as far away as the Sarasota Parish Nov. 9, for a day Isabella Rios, 12, enjoyed her pa- Naples and Clearwater. It has be- filled with food, fun and entertain- pas rellenas from the Cuban food come a much-anticipated event ment. tent, which is a meat-filled potato for the ethnically diverse Sara- The annual festival is a celebra- ball, while listening to one of the sota Parish. All of the proceeds of tion of both the individual nations rock bands before watching fla- the Hispanic Festival go to sup- and the unified culture of a diverse menco dancers perform. “The food port the various outreach efforts people. Held annually in early No- is great, but I like the music and the of the Parish, including helping vember, the day includes musical dancers best.” countless families throughout performances, ethnic dancers and Father Celestino Gutierrez, Pas- the year. food from many nations. Through- tor of St. Jude, officially opened the As a bilingual Parish, the mem- out the parish grounds were tents Hispanic Festival with a prayer. bers of both the English and the full of a wide variety of food that left This followed a “Parade of Flags” Spanish speaking congregation many mouths watering. when each country represented at participated and volunteered to Cooler temperatures energized the festival was announced, and the staff the booths. This annual Fes- everyone as the celebration of more respective flags brought forward to tival is the oldest one in Sarasota than a dozen countries lasted from cheers from the crowd. County to feature authentic Latino A wide variety of food was available during the 17th annual Hispanic morning until after sunset. Many Whether it was the food, the mu- food, music and culture. n Festival Nov. 9 at St. Jude Parish in Sarasota. (BOB REDDY | FC) Hispanic Charismatic Renewal celebrates gathering

BOB REDDY Father Rafael A. Abreu, OCD, Or- the founding of the Charismatic of the Florida Catholic staff der of the Discalced Carmelites, Renewal. from the Dominican Republic. “I pray for your mission to the BONITA SPRINGS | The V Di- Music was provided by interna- body of Christ,” Bishop Dewane ocesan Congress of the Hispanic tional recording artist Gerardo said. “May the Spirit fulfill your Catholic Charismatic Renewal Anderson. Additional music was vocation – the Lord wants you to brought together nearly 900 from provided by musicians from Holy hold nothing back.” across the Diocese Nov. 16 to St. Cross Parish in Orlando. The Bishop reminded the Char- Leo the Great Parish in Bonita There are 20 different Hispan- ismatics that they are also called to Springs. ic Charismatic Renewal prayer humility, that their charism is not The day included renewal, groups throughout the Diocese. about themselves but that of build- prayer, talks, music, adoration, This gathering was developed fol- ing up others. He also encouraged opportunity for confession, and lowing the successful 2017 Char- them to leave the gathering by let- concluded with a Mass celebrated ismatic Renewal Conference that ting what they heard and learned by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. brought together all of the Eng- throughout the day to resonate The V Diocesan Congress of the Hispanic Catholic Charismatic The talks were given by Father lish and Hispanic Commissions within them and make them more Renewal brought together nearly 900 from across the Diocese on Wilson Gonzalez, OMM, of the together for the first time in cel- the man/woman they are called Nov. 16 to St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs. (BOB REDDY | FC) Diocese of Leon in Nicaragua, and ebration of the Golden Jubilee of by God to be. n Catholic-Jewish gathered commemorates start of Holocaust

BOB REDDY On behalf of the Diocese, Bishop Temple of the Islands on Sanibel. of the Florida Catholic staff Frank J. Dewane said that while Rabbi Fuchs spoke about his father, Kristallnacht may seem like the a victim of Kristallnacht who was NAPLES | This year marks the distant past, the threat remains. arrested and sent to Dachau con- 81st anniversary of “Kristallnacht, Bishop Dewane quoted Pope Fran- centration camp. He was fortunate the Night of Broken Glass.” It was cis who recently expressed his con- to have escaped with his life, unlike on the night of Nov. 9, 1938, when cern about reports of escalating the more than six million Jews who members of the Nazi party attacked anti-Semitic violence around the were murdered during the Holo- Jewish persons and destroyed Jew- world, even in the United States, in- caust. ish owned property in Germany cluding acts of vandalism. “We cannot undo the past,” Rab- and Austria. Kristallnacht is gener- “It is as if we are beginning again bi Fuchs said. “The future is ours to ally regarded as the beginning of and that some glass might be shat- share. What kind of future will it be? the Holocaust in Europe which ul- tering,” the Bishop continued. “We The answer is in our hands.” timately led to the murder of more gather so the past is not forgotten In a moving tribute, survi- than six million Jews. or still worse allowed to be denied vors of the Holocaust lit candles To commemorate those events, by some. We gather to remember in honor of those Jews who were the Catholic-Jewish Dialogue of the lives, the human beings, that murdered during the Holocaust. Collier County hosted its annual were lost to the senselessness that A candle was also lit by second- “Kristallnacht: The Night of Bro- occurred. Inhumane violence of and third-generation survivors. ken Glass” Nov. 17 at St. John the another time. In so doing, we strive The candles served as a symbolic Following a Nov. 17 Kristallnacht commemoration at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples. The to prevent, by our gathering, the re- commitment that those in at- Evangelist Parish in Naples, Bishop Frank J. Dewane, right, is seen event, now in its 16th year, was co- currence of Kristallnacht and the tendance are responsible for one with Michael Feldman, left, board member of the Catholic-Jewish sponsored by the Diocese of Venice Holocaust.” another and there is no room in Dialogue of Collier County and moderator of the event, and guest and Jewish Federation of Greater The keynote speaker was Rab- the world for hatred. And to say, speaker Rabbi Stephen Fuchs, center, of Bat Yam Temple of the Islands Naples. bi Stephen Fuchs of the Bat Yam “Never again!” n on Sanibel. (BOB REDDY | FC) Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 8

DIOCESAN EVENTS Sacrament of Matrimony. Cost [email protected]. $125. Continental breakfast Seminary Young Adult WORLD DAY OF THE POOR and lunch will be provided. Third annual Mother and Retreat 2020: 8 a.m.-7 p.m., 941-484-9543, evangelization@ Daughter Advent Retreat and Feb. 1, 2020, St. Vincent de Paul dioceseofvenice.org, www.dioce- Tea: 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Nov. 30, St. Regional Seminary, 10701 S. seofvenice.org/calendar. Ann Parish, 995 Third St. S., Naples. Military Trail, Boynton Beach. “Et Cost: $25 per mother and daugh- Home buyer education work- Verbum Caro Factum Est (And the ter. Registration closes Nov. 25. shop: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Jan. Word Was Made Flesh).” Talks, Limited space is available. Register 11, 2020, Catholic Charities offices Adoration, confessions Mass and at www.dioceseofvenice.org/ at 1219 16th St. W., Bradenton. more. Register at www.svdp.edu/ calendar, or contact Kim Elsmore, Participants in the workshop will project-page or email svdpretreat@ [email protected]. be eligible for assistance from gmail.com. Manatee and Sarasota counties Faustina — Love and Mercy: 2020 Catholic Charities Ball: bond and/or grant programs for 7 p.m., Dec. 2 only, the movie 6 p.m., Feb. 8, 2020, Ritz-Carlton down payment and closing costs. “Faustina: Love and Mercy” will be Grand Ballroom in Sarasota. Register: 941-714-7829. shown in various theaters in cities Celebrity speaker: Tim Tebow. within the Diocese of Venice. This Jammin’ for the Mamas at Theme: “Puttin on the Ritz.” All docudrama focuses on the life of Our Mothers House: 5:30 p.m., proceeds will benefit the pro- St. Faustina and the message given Jan. 13, 2020, Boca Royale Golf grams and services of Catholic her by Jesus to spread his mission and Country Club, Englewood. Join Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in of love and mercy to the world. the Shark Sisters for a “jawsome” Sarasota and Manatee counties. night of fun, food and music. Tickets: $300/person. Visit www. Visit https://www.fathomevents. To honor “World Day of the Poor,” a candlelight procession followed com/events/faustina-love-and-mer- Tickets are $50, includes dinner catholiccharitiesdov.org or call 941- and concert. Benefits Our Mother’s 355-4680, ext. 311 or email joan. the Nov. 17 Mass at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. Nearly 100 cy for participating theaters and to gathered near the Homeless Jesus statue located on Tampa Avenue purchase tickets. House of Catholic Charities, a [email protected]. mother-child residential housing as Bishop Frank J. Dewane and Father Shawn Monahan, OMV, lead Christmas Spectacular star- Scripture Series with Dr. program. Call 941-485-6264 or 941- Edard Sri: 3-5 p.m., St. John the the gathering in prayer. This event was part of a world-wide effort ing Billy Dean and Dawn: 662-7787. 7 p.m., Dec. 2, St. Columbkille Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. to inspire people to greater service of the poor and marginalized. Parish, Iona Hall, 12171 Iona Road, Apologetics Conference N., Naples; 7-9 p.m., Our Lady of (COURTESY) Fort Myers. Christmas favorites. with Mike Aquilina: 5:30-7 p.m., the Angels Parish, 12905 E. State Proceeds benefits Parish Habitat Jan. 16, 2020, Resurrection Parish, Road 70, Lakewood Ranch. Both for Humanity project. Tickets $20 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort on Jan. 24, 2020. Part 1 of Series website at www.dioceseofvenice. Naples. Benefits St. Elizabeth at the parish office. 239-489-3973. Myers; 8:30 a.m.-noon and 6-7:30 Into His Likeness. 941-484-9543, org/safeenvironment. Seton Catholic School. Contact Jeff p.m., Jan. 17, 2020, Epiphany evangelization@dioceseofvenice. Prepare Your Heart for Reporting abuse: Report Tenbarge at [email protected] Cathedral, 310 Sarasota St., Venice. org, www.dioceseofvenice.org/ all abuses against minors to the or Gina Groch at groch@seston. Christmas Advent Retreat: Defend Youth Faith: Finding calendar. Dec. 7-8, Our Lady of Perpetual Florida Department of Children org, or call 239-455-2262. answers to modern problems in Project Rachel Retreat: and Families at 1-800-962-2873. Help Retreat Center, 3989 S. Moon the early Church. Free. All are Hungarian Mass “Magyar Drive, Venice. Encounter Mary Planning stage in English and To report abuse by diocesan Mise”: 1:30 p.m., second Sundays welcome. 941-484-9543, evangeli- Spanish, at a private, confidential personnel or volunteers, also call and her Son in a deeply personal [email protected], www. (Dec. 8), Incarnation Parish, 2901 and transformative way. Includes location. Project Rachel offers hope the Diocesan Victims Assistance Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. dioceseofvenice.org/calendar. and healing after abortion for presentations, personal prayer, Coordinator at 941-416-6114. Advent Retreat: 8:30 a.m.- Confession and/or private confer- Sarasota Prayer Walk for women and men. Contact Sylvia 2019 Catholic Charities Life: 8:30 a.m., Jan. 21, 2020, ST. via phone or text at 941-412-5860 3:30 p.m., Dec. 9, St. Bernard ences, and small and large group Christmas Appeal. Going on Parish, 248 South Harbor Drive, sharing. Mass will be celebrated Martha Parish, 200 N. Orange or project.rachel@dioceseofvenice. through January 2020. The goal is St., Sarasota. Mass celebrated by org for details. All calls are confi- Holmes Beach. Acclaimed speaker both days. www.olph-retreat.org. to raise $565,000 and all gifts are Matthew Leonard will be leading Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Bus or dential. appreciated. Largest fundraiser National Night of Prayer for walk to Planned Parenthood on the retreat, focusing on penetrat- Life: Dec. 8, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., San Young adult opportunities: and critical to operating the social ing the mystery of the Immaculate Central Avenue for Prayer Vigil. • Naples area, Theology on Tap, service organization. Donations Pedro Parish, 14380 Tamiami Trail, [email protected]. Conception and exploring the North Port; 9-10 p.m., San Marco 6:30-8 p.m., Tuesdays, first Tuesday, benefit Catholic Charities programs timeless mysteries of heaven. Free Parish, 851 San Marco Road, Marco Sugar Bowl Show of Shows St. John the Evangelist Parish; and services available through- will offering. Lunch included. Island; 6-10 p.m., St. Agnes Parish, North Port: 7 p.m., Jan. 25, 2020, second Tuesday, St. Agnes Parish; out Southwest Florida that assist Books and videos available for 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road, North Port Performing Arts Center, third Tuesday, St. Peter the Apostle individuals, families, and seniors purchase. Seating is limited. 941- Naples (Procession to the chapel 6400 W. Price Blvd. North Port. Parish; fourth Tuesday, St. William all year long. Visit www.catholic- 778-4769. Proceeds will go to the Sugar Bowl after the 5 p.m. Mass followed by Parish. charitiesdov.org or mail a donation Faith and Ale Lee County: adoration and Night of Prayers); Fund of Catholic Charities and the • Fort Myers area, “Rooted” 7:15 to Catholic Charities, Diocese of local Knights of Columbus Councils 6 p.m., Dec. 12, at Resurrection after the 8:30 a.m. Mass, Sacred p.m. first Thursdays, St. John XXIII Venice, Inc., 5824 Bee Ridge Road, Parish, 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Heart Parish, 211 W. Charlotte for families in the community Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort PMB #409, Sarasota, FL 34233- who are experiencing a financial Fort Myers. The speaker is Father Ave., Punta Gorda. For more de- Myers. Kelly Evers, 239-561-3022 5065. Call 941-488-5581. Vincent Lampert; “Church tails, contact Jeanne Berdeaux, at hardship. Featuring the Goldtones ext. 107. performing oldies and doo wop Teaching on Exorcism.” Donations: 941-374-1068, Berdeaux@diocese • Sarasota area, Theology on music. Tickets are $20 or $25 a per- $10. To register: www.faithandale. ofvenice.org. Tap: 7 p.m., Dec. 19, Mandeville COMMUNITY son and can be purchased at www. com. Beer Garden, 428 Lemon Ave., Adopt a Family for catholiccharitiesdov.org. 10th Annual Sunshine Christmas: Our Mother’s House Sarasota. Future third Thursdays. EVENTS Mass Honoring Widows and State Steak Cook-off: Dec. 15 of Catholic Charities is looking for Joshua Mazrin at mazrin@dioce- Women’s Guild card party: registration deadline for Jan. 25 volunteers to Adopt a Family for Widowers: 3 p.m., Jan. 26, St. seofvenice.org. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 11 a.m., Dec. 4, St. Francis Assisi event at Ave Maria. Cook teams Christmas. The program provides “Witnessing Faith with 111th Avenue, Naples. Celebrant: Parish, 5265 Placida Road, Grove from near and far who will be shelter and guidance for single Bishop Dewane”: 8:30 a.m., last Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Dinner City. Play cards or games until 2:30 competing for trophies and cash mothers and their children who Fridays, Relevant Radio, 1660 AM, will follow. A display of photos will p.m. Tickets are $8 and includes prizes. Register at https://www. would otherwise be homeless. Naples as well as 1410 AM and be available for viewing during your lunch, drinks, playing time sunshinestatesteakcookoff.com/. Resident families have provided a 106.7 FM in Fort Myers. Monthly the reception; should you wish to and door prizes. Make reservations Steak tickets are available online wish list of items they can use and radio program can also be heard at participate with a photo of you by Dec. 2 at www. sfoachurch.com or can be purchased at: Donahue wrapped gifts need to be returned online at https://dioceseofvenice. and your spouse, email ardy@ – Parish Forms – Card Party, or call- Academy School Office, Ave Maria to Our Mother’s House, 207 N. org/our-bishop/relevant-radio- dioceseofvenice.org or send a copy ing 941-697-4899 ext. 6 and leave Development, Del Webb Oasis Harbor Drive, Venice, FL 34285 by podcasts/. in advance to Diocese of Venice, a message with your name, phone Club and the Ave Maria Parish Dec. 9. Contact Case Worker Rita Television Mass for the number and number of people at Office. Millner at 941-485-6264, ext. 102. ATTN: Widows and Widowers Mass, 1000 Pinebrook Road, homebound: 9:30 a.m. on the CW your table. Parish Concert: 7 p.m., Jan. 31, Come to the Water Day Venice, Florida 34285. Cost is free, Network in northern parts of the Faith and Wine Lee County: Holy Trinity Hall, 24411 Rampart of Prayer: 9 a.m., second but registration is required to plan Diocese; 10:30 a.m., on WFTX-TV 6 p.m., Dec. 5, Resurrection Parish, Blvd., Port Charlotte. Sponsored by Wednesdays (Dec. 11), Our Lady for food. To register www.dioce- (FOX-4), in the southern portions 8121 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort the San Antonio Parish Knights of of Perpetual Help Retreat Center, seofvenice.org/calendar, Gail Ardy of the Diocese. Check local listings Myers. Register: www.faithand- Columbus. Featuring Goldtones, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Day 941-484-9543, ardy@dioceseofvenice. for channel info. Leaflet missals are wineleecounty.com. Florida’s famous Doo-wop group includes continental breakfast, org, or Kim Elsmore elsmore@dioce- available upon request by writing: St. Agnes Advent Day of tickets are $15, at 800-838-3006, or lunch, two conferences, and op- seofvenice.org. TV Mass, Diocese of Venice, 1000 Reflection: 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., St. www.BrownPaperTickets.com. portunities for the sacrament of Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt Free Rosary Repair Service: reconciliation, private meditation Catholic Days at the Capitol: Or contact Gail Ardy: 941-486- Beach Road, Naples. Explore Mary’s Send your broken rosaries in a and prayer, Mass. Early registra- Jan. 28-30, 2020, three-day bus trip 4714, [email protected]. life based on the revelations of padded envelope to Betty and tion discount, 10 days prior is $30. to Tallahassee. Free bus transpor- Safe Environment training: Saint Anne Emmerich. Begins with Dick Holden, 7930 Estero Blvd. Registration increases to $35 there- tation is provided while space is As part of the Safe Environment Mass, followed by a continental #502, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. after. Register: https://olph-retreat. available. Online registration by Program, the Diocese of Venice breakfast and live presenta- Rosaries will be repaired and org/1-day-retreats. Dec. 20 at https://dioceseofvenice. regfox.com/catholic-days-at-the- requires that all employees and tion in the Parish Center. Lunch returned within a week of receipt. Convalidation Workshop: capitol. See the registration form those volunteers who work with included. Cost $15 fee per person. Donations of old and broken 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Dec. 14, St. William for hotel reservation choices. children and/or vulnerable adults Register and pay online at www. rosaries are also accepted. Include Parish, 750 Seagate Drive, Naples. Additional information is available be fingerprinted and trained in StAgnesNaples.org. a note indicating a repair and Workshop to help couples who at https://www.flaccb.org/cdac. Safe Environment. For further Seton Golf Classic: 8:30 a.m., return or donation. 239-463-3993, are legally married receive the Jeanne Berdeaux: 941-374-1068, information, visit the Diocesan Dec. 7 The Club at The Strand, [email protected]. A9 FLORIDA NEWS Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 2 pictures paint one family’s immigration story

Mother and sons were separated Mother thanks CLS for nearly two months. They were reunited through the tireless efforts for help reuniting of Itzep herself; lawyers for Catholic Legal Services and Americans for with children, Immigrant Justice; a federal judge, hearing a separate case, who or- obtaining asylum dered the government to reunite those who had been separated; ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO and a “chain of mothers” calling of the Florida Catholic staff themselves Immigrant Families Together. MIAMI BEACH | Two pictures The groundswell of public- tell the story of the work being done ity about Itzep’s case helped raise by lawyers for Catholic Legal Ser- $26,000: $15,000 that she would vices of the Archdiocese of Miami. need to post bond and leave de- The first, taken some time in July tention, plus some seed money to 2018, shows a woman tightly hug- start a new life. Immigrant Families ging two boys, their faces all hid- Together linked a chain of 10 indi- Above, Amalia Itzep, a native of Guatemala, poses with her sons, den, huge backpacks forming a co- viduals who drove as long as seven Juan and Mario Herrera, with whom she was reunited after two coon around their waists. The cap- hours in some cases to bring Itzep months in the summer of 2018. They were detained and separated tion says “Maria (not her real name) from Arizona to Miami. The trip after crossing the border in Arizona. Right, the photograph that is reunited with her children in took four days. Eleven days later she appeared in the Florida Catholic Miami after “Maria” and her sons’ Miami after a 49-day separation…” was hugging her boys. 49-day separation. They entered the U.S. without authorization and The second, taken Nov. 7, 2019, And that was the easy part. As were separated under the Trump administration’s short-lived zero shows that same mother with her Yutzy put it, “their next challenge tolerance policy. (COURTESY PHOTOS) two boys, all dressed in their finest, was to fight deportation.” The im- smiling for the camera. The caption migration judge initially held Itzep income immigrants obtain asylum, Seeing the work of the agency seeking asylum in the U.S., espe- gives their names: Amalia Itzep and was not eligible for asylum. Without establish legal residency, become prompted Julie Grimes, managing cially in south Florida,” Grimes told her sons, Juan and Mario Herrera. a lawyer at her side, that would have citizens and be reunited with their partner at the Hilton Bentley South the Florida Catholic. The difference in the photos is been the end of her story. families. Beach, to offer to host the Families At a time when “people are put- more than superficial. It marks the “A well-reasoned legal brief and As Archbishop Thomas Wen- United fundraiser, totally free of ting any type of roadblock to keep distance between being forced to zealous advocacy convinced the ski put it, Catholic Legal Services charge. people out,” she added, “it just be- hide for lack of immigration papers, judge to at least listen to the claim,” serves “the least, the last and the “I’m just so grateful that we have comes more vital to support” the and emerging from the shadows Yutzy narrated. At the end of the lost. Thank God there are people an organization like Catholic Legal efforts of Catholic Legal Services. n after obtaining legal status. It’s a three-hour hearing, “most of which with a heart for service, a heart for Services to provide care and repre- journey that spanned thousands of consisted of Amalia’s powerful tes- justice and also the brains to give sentation to so many of our impov- For more information, go to www. miles, many months and dozens of timony,” the immigration judge good legal representation.” erished immigrants and refugees cclsmiami.org. people. granted her asylum. As Channel 10 anchor Eric Yutzy, Her sons, then 7 and 8 years old, master of ceremonies for the Nov. had to go before a judge as well. FORMER SENATOR SPEAKS ON IMMIGRATION 7 Families Reunited fundraiser for Represented by Americans for Im- Catholic Legal Services, narrated: migrant Justice, they also obtained MIAMI BEACH | Who better to in Congress to secure a comprehensive of the visa waivers granted by the U.S. “Just as Amalia’s family was being asylum, and “are now part of our advocate for unaccompanied minors immigration reform. government. They also were welcomed family” in south Florida, Yutzy said. torn asunder, another family was seeking refuge in the U.S. than a former “He represents the best of this com- because they were fleeing a Communist being forged, a family of complete In her brief remarks at the event, unaccompanied minor? Better yet, one munity and the best of the Pedro Pan regime at the height of the Cold War. strangers, a digital family connect- Itzep thanked the Catholic Legal who eventually served as U.S. Secretary of community,” the archbishop said, adding “The political circumstances of our ed through emails, tweets and an Services attorneys who repre- Housing and Urban Development and U.S. that “unaccompanied minors come to situation don’t make us different,” occasional phone call — a modern sented her, Kristie-Anne Padron Senator from Florida. this country not to be burdens but to Martinez said, adding that the hostility to family, based on the bonds of com- and Renzo Iparraguirre. “They Republican Mel Martinez told a gather- contribute.” the recent wave of unaccompanied minors mon humanity, the shared experi- were the people who were with me ing of attorneys, immigration advocates At the Families United reception, is due to “misunderstanding about the ence of motherhood, of compassion when I needed them most,” she said and fellow “Pedro Pans” that doing right Martinez recalled the difficulties of those circumstances of these new immigrants” and of a sense of justice.” through a translator.” by today’s unaccompanied minors, as well first years in the U.S.: separated from his — especially the view that their parents, Itzep and her boys were caught Catholic Legal Services is cur- as undocumented immigrants who have parents, learning a new language and or even strangers, are using them to gain in the Trump administration’s “zero rently working to represent 12,000 forged new lives in the U.S., benefits not adapting to a new life. admittance to the U.S. tolerance” immigration policy. She minors facing immigration court just immigrants. “We all went through a similar experi- “It happens,” he said. But he also arrived at the Arizona border from in south Florida. Every month, “It’s not for the immigrant. It is for the ence that touched and changed our lives,” noted that not all Cubans, whether arriv- her native Guatemala on May 26, the agency’s 28 fulltime attorneys, greater good of this country as we go he said of the Pedro Pans. But imagine ing today or in decades past, were political 2018, and was promptly sent to an aided by paralegals and dozens of forward,” Martinez said at Families United- “if on top of all that I would have had to exiles in the strictest sense. Terror and adult detention facility in Eloy, Ari- pro bono partners, see about 3,000 themed fundraiser for Catholic Legal deal with an immigration problem and an violence are just as real whether the culprit zona. Her sons were sent to the now- people who hail from as many as Services of the Archdiocese of Miami. uncertain future,” he added, like today’s is the government or street gangs. closed shelter for unaccompanied 150 different nations. The agency Martinez came from Cuba as a teen unaccompanied minors. “What would help is telling the story of minors in Homestead. focuses exclusively on helping low- in 1962, one of 14,000 unaccompanied Giving them legal status “will change what is happening in the Northern Triangle minors brought to the U.S. under the Pedro their lives. It will also change our country countries” of Central America, Martinez Pan program organized by the Catholic and make it a better country,” Martinez said. Church in Miami. He lived with two foster said. Asked about immigration reform, he families in Orlando until his parents arrived He added that he wished for a return said, “It’s gotta happen and it would help in 1966. He then graduated from Orlando to the day when legislators could “sit so much to recognize the status of those Junior College, obtained a law degree down at a table and come together, not who are here.” from Florida State University, and served as Republicans and Democrats but as As for DACA recipients — those who as HUD secretary in the George W. Bush Americans” and agree on a plan for im- were brought to the U.S. as children and administration. migration reform. are now young adults, or “dreamers,” At the Nov. 7 reception, Martinez Speaking later with the Florida seeking legal status in the only country received Catholic Legal Services’ Msgr. Catholic, Martinez acknowledged the they have known — Martinez called their Bryan O. Walsh Humanitarian Award, in difference between today’s unaccompa- situation “a multiheaded beast, and not

13299-1122 part for what Archbishop Thomas Wenski nied minors and his fellow Pedro Pans. The resolving it doesn’t make our country described as his “valiant” efforts while Pedro Pans possessed legal status because better.” Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 www.facebook.com/FloridaCatholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS A10 After El Paso: Offering awareness through pastoral letter, teach-in

MAURICE BEAULIEU TEACH-IN garnering dialogue. of the Florida Catholic staff Before the recent fall assembly “(W)e have been ignoring the is- of the U.S. Conference of Catho- sue that has constantly been there, ORLANDO | Although the lic Bishops, several fellow bishops which is white supremacy,” Gomez mass shooting at an El Paso congratulated Bishop Seitz for his said. “It is racism.” Walmart happened three months work in El Paso and on the letter. Another Catholic, Cesar Balde- ago, the shocking aftereffects of For him that meant perhaps that lomar, who studies theology at the tragedy continue to ripple conversation will start with his fel- Boston College, lectured at the throughout the border area com- low shepherds. conference about numerous social Above is a view of the border between Mexico and the United States munity. The incident made na- “It can’t simply be put under the justice issues concerning America on a bridge in El Paso, Texas, as seen by participants of the Teach-In tional news, as the location of the rug as though this was just another at the moment, including the im- 2019: Jornada por la Justicia. Below is a memorial of children who murder scene was chosen for its passing experience where an in- portance of activism on college have died in detention after crossing the border. (PHOTOS COURTESY largely Latino population. dividual was deranged, came and campuses. FATHER FRED RUSE) For Bishop Mark Seitz, shep- shot people,” he told CNS. Baldelomar doesn’t believe only herd of the El Paso Diocese, he “This event, it was, in some racial dominance is at the core of worried that as the days went by ways,” he continued, “the tip of the El Paso shooting. “It goes deep- people wanted to put the incident an iceberg that consists of a grow- er than white supremacy,” he said. behind them. So, he boldly decid- ing ideology that either is latently “It is only an expression of this (ra- ed to put it front and center again racist in their attitudes, especially cial tragedy). We have reached the in the form of a powerful docu- toward people of Latino origin ... point of it as a systemic problem. It ment on church teaching titled, a rhetoric that makes it seem ac- is a culture of death, not a culture “The Night Will Be No More.” ceptable to exclude a whole group of compassion. Humans, in gen- In it, Bishop Seitz forced a raw of people, immigrants and, more eral, are seen as dispensable cogs look at racism, including inside broadly, people of Hispanic origin, in a machine.” the church, and at the way words, simply because of their origin and Retired priest Father Fred Ruse, including by government officials, this we cannot simply put under who hails from the Diocese of Or- coupled with a person’s embrace the carpet. We have to deal with lando where he served for 43 years, of white supremacy, contributed that because it’s not going away.” dedicated his time at the teach- by what he had witnessed, which to the deadly event and profound- That was a sentiment felt and in by representing the Catholic included portions of the notorious THE FUTURE ly wounded, in particular, El Pa- examined when the Hope Border Church and providing moral sup- wall, National Guards with “huge The road to change is long but so’s Latino community. Institute and the Latinx Catholic port to the Latino community. He guns,” and “a bunch of immigra- not without hope. That was the sin- “Although I myself am not of Leadership Coalition orchestrated said he believes this issue of race tion cars monitoring the area.” cere message of the teach-in. And Latino origin, they’re my people,” “The Teach-In 2019: Jornada por goes beyond the El Paso shooter “People were sleeping in tents,” while the shooter acted from a rac- Bishop Seitz told Catholic News la Justicia,” a weekend of courses and into the political spectrum. Gomez said. One scene saddened ist mindset, the good people of the Service Nov. 10. “They’re my fam- and prayer in El Paso, Texas. Pro- Eliminating white supremacy, he his experience to the core. “There October presentation do not want ily. They’re my flock, if you will. fessors, journalists, and religious said, “is a multi-faceted task of hav- was a little kid protecting his par- his life extinguished as a result. They’re the people I’m called to officials came together to educate ing conversations with those who ents’ belongings, which was just Baldelomar doesn’t recommend serve and to guide and, in some the attendees with workshops spe- have the power.” two bags filled with stuff. The par- the death penalty as an option for way, to protect, and they’ve been cializing in voter suppression, ra- ents were out looking for food.” the El Paso Walmart shooter. “I assaulted. I saw their faces. I heard cialized violence, Latino identity, ON THE BORDER WITH To settle these ongoing prob- don’t think the death penalty will their pain.” and learned how to recognize and A CATHOLIC LENS lems of race and citizenship at the bring release or closure,” he said. Those in his diocese with resolve similar issues in the future. Crossing the border could also border, turning to Christ could As a solution, America should be whom he spent time in the after- Among the various topics dis- be classified as a complicated and be the universal answer that will “more robust about gun control math — even though they may cussed during the teach-in, the multi-faceted decision. Those who bring awareness, understanding, and policy.” have not been shot at or were fam- issue of race was paramount and cross the border to seek asylum do and change. “The key is to inspire Father Ruse shares that Catho- ily of those who were hurt — also prominent. After the tragedy at so as an option for survival. generations,” Baldelomar said of lic sentiment, as well. “It is just are victims in some form, he said. Walmart unfolded, it was discov- But Gomez suggested newscast how Catholics should treat the El perpetuating violence,” he said of “I heard a woman in her 40s, ered the suspect — a self-pro- channels and social media tend Paso tragedy. “The Church in the applying the death penalty. “Try who had grown up in El Paso, and claimed white nationalist — trav- not to showcase those perspectives U.S. and around the world is polar- to bring them into the space of re- she said to me, ‘You know, all my eled 10 hours to specifically target as legitimate reasons for the border ized. We need to reconcile. This is demption.” life growing up here, I felt like a Hispanics. crisis. a problem of culture and death and The El Paso teach-in helped full citizen of this country, but The Florida Catholic spoke with “(The media) doesn’t show what destruction. Follow Jesus’ teach- the attendees to come together with these events, for the first time two lay people and a priest about is 200 steps from the wall.” Chan- ings in the New Testament … and and bond over sympathy for the in my life, I feel like I have been their experiences at the teach-in. nels play only what their core audi- the Gospel of Luke about the mar- deceased and practice faith with made a target simply because of Mateo Gomez, a Miami resident of ences will likely want, Gomez add- ginalized and poor.” hope for a more positive future. the color of my skin.’ And that was Colombian heritage, who studies ed. “We should see it first-hand. “There are people living in tents “The teach-in was an ideal place so painful to hear.” political science and broadcasting The media networks are censor- along the border. As young as three to be exposed to the finest minds He said he wanted the letter to at Barry University. He attended ing things that they don’t want to months and as old as 85,” he add- … relative to the issue of immigra- be a “conversation starter” and the El Paso conference to support show. They won’t show the com- ed. “They receive very little aid. tion, practice and policy in this also one that would explore the the Latino community. He sympa- plete view.” As Catholics we need to see what country,” Father Ruse said. underlying causes of the shoot- thizes with the victims of the gun- That is why Gomez wanted to Catholic social teaching can say The question Father Ruse raises ing, “something that would lead man’s racial attacks because he has see the Mexico-United States bor- about it.” about immigration, racial supe- to further dialogue, especially endured bigotry himself. Gomez, der for himself and witness the Father Ruse shared Gomez and riority, and mindless killing is because the people in my dio- who one day had traveled to the shockwave of the El Paso tragedy Baldelomar’s opinions. “Talking simple, direct, and highlights the cese were still suffering from that Naples area and asked for direc- by attending the teach-ins. “I have about it in the parish (is key),” he future moral decisions that all event.” tions, had been called a racial slur to go see this,” he said of his jour- said. He feels the Church should Catholics and non-Catholics need The letter has opened the doors without any provocation. ney across a bridge that leads into take more responsibility. “The to answer for themselves: “Is that of conversation, he said, to ask He echoed the words of Bishop Ciudad Juárez, the Mexican city whole thing of colonialism, the really the way God sees us?” n “what has been your experience Seitz that the shooting in El Paso that parallels El Paso. “I need to see Church was a companion with the in the past? Have you experienced and the ramifications behind what is on the other side, of what powers that be as a way of control- Catholic News Service contributed something that showed prejudice the event cannot be ignored. For people are going through. I want to ling the places they came to. We to this report. The full text of Bishop toward you, discrimination to- Gomez, an acknowledgement of hear for myself.” need to talk about it through the Mark Seitz’s letter, titled “Night Will ward you because you are of Lati- the racial climate throughout the Gomez added although it was bulletin, the parish schools, the Be No More,” can be found on line no origin? And I’ve been surprised country has been a long overdue an “incredible” experience, “I had pulpit. We need to be more welcom- in English and Spanish at https:// at the answers.” discussion, and now it is finally lost my appetite.” He was repulsed ing, ask: why are things this way?” bit.ly/2rGwQxu. A11 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

U.S. BISHOPS MEETING: Agenda included challenges faced by church, society

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE The previous day, Auxiliary Bish- FIRST LATINO USCCB PRESIDENT op Robert E. Barron of Los Angeles BALTIMORE | During their Nov. told the bishops the church is losing Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los An- The committee had been chaired by 11-13 meeting in Baltimore, the U.S. young people in greater numbers geles was elected to a three-year term Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, bishops elected new officers and and must face the challenges of how as president of the U.S. Conference of Kentucky, but he stepped down discussed challenges in the church to get the religiously unaffiliated, or Catholic Bishops during the bishops’ fall earlier this year to undergo treatment and the nation. They spoke of their “nones,” particularly young people, general assembly in Baltimore. The na- for bladder and prostate cancer. Bishop renewed efforts to help immigrants, back. tive of Mexico was chosen Nov. 12 with Murry will serve the remaining year of youth and young adults, pregnant He presented a three-minute 176 votes from a slate of 10 nominees. Archbishop Kurtz’s term. women and the poor as well their video on the issue and spoke of his Archbishop Gomez, 67, is the first Vote tallies for committee chairmen- steps to combat gun violence and concerns and ideas for bringing Latino to be elected president. He has elect are: racism. young people back to church which served as conference vice president • Committee on Canonical Affairs Unlike recent previous meetings, involved: not dumbing down the for the past three years, working and Church Governance: Archbishop their response to the clergy abuse faith and involving young people alongside Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo Jerome E. Listecki of Milwaukee crisis was mentioned but was not in the social justice aspects of the Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los of Galveston-Houston, the outgoing elected over Bishop Mark L. Bartchak the primary focus. church. Discussion about this from Angeles, vice president of the U.S. president. His term as president begins of Altoona-Johnstown, Pennsylvania, On the second day of the meet- the floor lasted for more than an Conference of Catholic Bishops, when the assembly ends. 144-97. ing, Nov. 12, the bishops elected hour with bishops from across the acknowledges the applause after The Los Angeles prelate has been a • Committee on Ecumenical and Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los country agreeing that the issue is being named the new president leading advocate of immigrant rights, Interreligious Affairs: Bishop Daniel P. Tal- Angeles to a three-year term as of great concern and sharing other Nov. 12. (BOB ROLLER | CNS) often voicing support for newcomers ley of Memphis, Tennessee, elected over president of the U.S. Conference of ideas to bring young people back as they face growing restrictions being Bishop Steven J. Lopes of the Personal Catholic Bishops and Archbishop which primarily involved cate- transparency related to dealing implemented by the Department of Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter, Allen H. Vigneron of Detroit as con- chism but also an increased devo- with the crisis. He said the abuse Homeland Security and other federal 123-114. ference vice president. tion to Mary. measures adopted by U.S. bishops agencies. At the start of the meeting, the The bishops also heard that a at their meeting last June are “only a • Committee on Evangelization and In subsequent voting, Archbishop Catechesis: Auxiliary Bishop Andrew H. bishops voted overwhelmingly on new “pastoral framework for mar- beginning. More needs to be done.” Allen H. Vigneron of Detroit, conference a revised set of strategic priorities riage and family life” should be At the start of the meeting, Bish- Cozzens of St. Paul and Minneapolis, secretary, was elected vice president. He elected over Bishop Thomas A. Daly of to take them into the next decade. ready for a vote by the U.S. bishops op Earl A. Boyea of Lansing, Michi- was elected on the third ballot by 151- Spokane, Washington, 151-88. The next day, they approved add- by next November at the latest, ac- gan, asked for an update on the 90 in a runoff with Archbishop Timothy • Committee on International Justice ing new materials to complement cording to Archbishop Charles J. Vatican’s report on the McCarrick P. Broglio of the U.S. Archdiocese for the “Forming Consciences for Faithful Chaput of Philadelphia, chairman situation, which many of the bish- and Peace: Bishop David J. Malloy of Military Services. Rockford, Illinois, elected over Bishop Citizenship,” their long-standing of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on ops, by voice vote, also said they In voting for a new secretary, the guide to help Catholics form their Laity, Marriage, Family Life and wanted to hear. Jaime Soto of Sacramento, California, assembly elected Archbishop Broglio, 140-101. consciences in public life, includ- Youth. He stressed that it is not a In a brief presentation, Boston 112-87, over Bishop Daniel E. Thomas ing voting. “plan,” since it is intended to be ap- Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley told the • Committee on Protection of Chil- of Toledo, Ohio. Archbishop Broglio will dren and Young People: Bishop James The addition included the state- plied within parishes and dioceses. bishops the Vatican has not yet serve through the end of the term in ment that called abortion the pre- At the start of their meeting Nov. published a report about its inves- V. Johnson of Kansas City-St. Joseph, 2021. The bishops also voted for the Missouri, was elected over Bishop W. eminent social issue of our time. 11, the bishops raised pressing is- tigation of now-defrocked former chairman of one committee, chairmen- The second day of bishops’ meeting sues that included the priesthood U.S. Cardinal Theodore E. McCar- Shawn McKnight of Jefferson City, Mis- elect of five other conference commit- souri, 167-77. coincided with oral arguments at shortage, gun violence and the need rick, but a report could be ready by tees and three representatives on the the Supreme Court over the fate of to provide support services for preg- Christmas, or in the new year. board of Catholic Relief Services, which Each chairman-elect will begin his the Deferred Action for Childhood nant women. He said he and other bishops at is the U.S. bishops’ overseas relief and three-year term as chairmen at the end Arrivals program, known as DACA Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Vatican for their recent “ad lim- development agency. of the 2020 fall general assembly. In ad- and bishops at the Baltimore meet- papal nuncio to the United States, ina ” visit said they were “anxious to dition, several chairmen-elect chosen last In the first committee vote, there was year will become committee chairmen at ing spoke up in defense of DACA mentioned some of these chal- receive the Holy See’s explanation a tie vote between Archbishop Thomas recipients on the floor and in inter- lenges in his opening remarks, of this tragic situation, how he could the end of this year’s assembly and will G. Wenski of Miami and Bishop George serve three-year terms: views with Catholic News Service. along with the need to welcome become an archbishop and cardi- V. Murry of Youngstown, Ohio, for Bishops also heard a wide-rang- migrants and fight racism. He also nal, who knew what and when.” He chairman of the Committee for Religious A final vote was taken for three seats ing report on immigration Nov. 12, urged the bishops not just to focus also stressed that the “long wait has Liberty. Each candidate received 121 on the CRS board. Elected were Bishop which included updates of policy, on the challenges before them but resulted in great frustration on the votes, but Bishop Murry, at 70, became Frank J. Caggiano of Bridgeport, Con- how programs to resettle refugees, to consider how they could further part of bishops and our people and chairman under USCCB bylaws because necticut; Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, including those run by the Catho- develop collegiality and collabora- indeed a very harsh and even cyni- he is the older of the two candidates. Texas; and Bishop Anthony B. Taylor of lic Church, have closed or reduced tion with one another. cal interpretation of the seeming Archbishop Wenski is 69. Little Rock, Arkansas. activity because the administration In his final address as president silence.” has moved to close the country’s of the U.S. Conference of Catholic In a presentation on gun vio- doors to those seeking refuge, and Bishops, Cardinal Daniel N. Di- lence, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of lative front was important, but that of the U.S. bishops’ Ad Hoc Com- efforts on the border to help asy- Nardo of Galveston-Houston told Venice, Florida, said Catholic clergy a pastoral response to gun violence mittee Against Racism, who spoke lum cases. After the report, Major- his fellow bishops that it has been and lay leaders can play a role in was needed. about the ongoing work of the Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the “an honor to serve you, even in the bringing together people along the “It’s time for a different ap- committee, highlighting the listen- Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy difficult times.” rural-urban divide to build under- proach,” he said. ing sessions that have taken place of Philadelphia said that no com- The 70-year-old prelate thanked standing of the need for sensible The bishops also voted for a new around the country. munity, more than Catholics in the the bishops, whom he called broth- policies that can end the scourge of sixth edition of the U.S. Confer- The bishops also heard presen- U.S., know what it’s like to be an im- ers, for the past three years and was gun violence. ence of Catholic Bishops’ existing tations about Catholic Charities migrant in this country. thanked by them in return when The bishop, who is chairman Program of Priestly Formation for USA and Catholic Relief Services. The bishops’ second day of meet- the group gave him a standing ova- of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on U.S. dioceses; before it can be im- In her report on Catholic Chari- ings also included a presentation of tion at the end of his nine-minute Domestic Justice and Human De- plemented, it must first receive a ties USA, Dominican Sister Donna the pope’s document “Christus Vi- presentation. velopment, outlined the USCCB’s “recognitio,” or approval, from the Markham, CEO and president, told vit ,” which was issued following the “Let’s begin anew,” he said, at the long-held stance of the need for Vatican Congregation for the Cler- the bishops the agency’s healthy 2018 Synod on Young People, the close of his address, veering away “common sense” legislation that gy. They approved a text translation housing initiative is collaborating Faith and Vocational Discernment. from prepared remarks, and quot- governs the availability of guns. But to be used in the Order of Christian with diocesan Catholic Charities Bishop Frank J. Caggiano of Bridge- ing St. Augustine. he also said it was time for people Initiation of Adults and OK’d close programs, parishes, local funders port, Connecticut, who had been a The cardinal, who suffered a to come together so that there is to 300 new hymn texts for the Lit- and Catholic health care systems delegate at the synod, urged bish- mild stroke earlier this year, did not greater understanding of how gun urgy of the Hours. to on a program gram to address ops to do more to support Catholic elaborate on specifics of the abuse violence affects urban communi- The three-day meeting wrapped chronic homelessness and guiding teens and young adults and to use crisis in the church, particularly ties in particular. up Nov. 13 with a presentation by people into permanent housing, the pope’s apostolic exhortation as highlighted this past year, but spoke He told Catholic News Service Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of Houma- while saving millions of dollars in their guide. of the bishops’ continued work of that the USCCB’s work on the legis- Thibodaux, Louisiana, chairman health care costs. n Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 www.facebook.com/FloridaCatholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS A12

U.S. BISHOPS MEETING: Analysis: The USCCB ‘abortion debate’ and aftermath Chicago Cardinal JD FLYNN Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chica- Blase J. Cupich, at Catholic News Agency go proposed an amendment. left, and Bishop Cardinal Cupich proposed to add Robert Strickland BALTIMORE | A public tweet into the letter paragraph 101 of Pope of Tyler, Texas, far offered by a single bishop that was Francis’ 2018 Gaudete ex esultate. left, speak from the based on an incorrect issue of de- The paragraph cautions against floor during the fall bate has created consequences of those who would relativize “the so- general assembly of backlash that some Catholics may cial engagement of others,” or act as the U.S. Conference needlessly lose trust in their bish- if “the only thing that counts is one of Catholic Bishops ops, and lose confidence in the particular ethical issue or cause in Baltimore Nov. 11. claims of the Catholic Church. that they themselves defend.” (BOB ROLLER | CNS) Following a discussion of wheth- The cardinal said in his proposal er a paragraph taken from an apos- that he wished to add the text be- tolic letter by Pope Francis should cause “the draft proposed wording be used in full or summarized citing this paragraph omits ‘equally entire paragraph,” he said. sion of this very controversial ques- Charles Chaput who got the debate within a letter drafted by the U.S. sacred’ from the start of that list of Archbishop Gomez asked the tion.” on the Cupich amendment back on Bishops, Bishop Joseph Strickland, important concerns, defacing the body of bishops to debate and vote “It is not Catholic that abortion is track. He said, “I am certainly not of Tyler, Texas, tweeted. “Thank point the pope was making, which on the point in question: Should the the preeminent issue that we face against quoting the Holy Father’s God the USCCB voted to uphold the is obviously that ‘defense of the committee summarize the pope’s as a world in Catholic social teach- statement.” preeminence of the Sanctity of the unborn is not ‘the only thing that text, or include the entire paragraph ing. It is not. For us to say that, par- “I think it’s a beautiful statement, life of the unborn. It is sad that 69 counts.’” Cupich had mentioned? ticularly when we omit the pope’s I believe it,” the archbishop added, voted no.” Led by Archbishop Jose Gomez The disagreement was not, at articulation of this question, I think weighing in on the motion on the The problem with the tweet: the of Los Angeles, the letter’s draft- that point, perceived to be a matter is a grave disservice of our people... floor. “I am against anyone stating vote was not whether to uphold the ing committee reviewed the Cu- of doctrinal debate. so either we shouldn’t have preemi- that our saying (abortion) is ‘preem- preeminence of the Sanctity of Life. pich proposal, along with dozens To be sure, some bishops have nent in there, or we should have the inent’ is contrary to the teaching of Yet, Bishop Strickland’s tweet went of other amendment proposals, on suggested that Cupich wanted to pope’s full paragraph where he lays the pope. Because that isn’t true. It viral. It was an incorrect interpre- the evening of Nov. 11, before pre- include the full text to advance his out his vision of this same question, sets an artificial battle between the tation of the vote, based upon the senting them the next day along- commitment to a “seamless gar- delicately balancing all of it in the bishops’ conference of the United bishop’s apparent belief that the side recommendations about their ment” vision of social justice, and words he does,” Bishop McElroy States and the Holy Father which language of preeminence was on adoption. to dilute the text’s prioritization of said. isn’t true. So I don’t like the argu- the ballot. Not to belabor a point, On the Cupich amendment, the the fight against abortion. Others, Many bishops looked shocked by ment Bishop McElroy used. It isn’t but it never was. committee asked the bishops to ac- though, noted that Cupich has a their fellow bishop’s words. But the true.” A half hour after Bishop Strick- cept a compromise recommenda- regular habit of calling for greater draft language McElroy objected “We do support the Holy Father land tweeted, a conservative You- tion, namely, to include the phrase use of the pope’s texts in conference to, that abortion “remains our pre- completely, what he said is true, but Tube commentator named Taylor “equally sacred,” but not the entire documents; one bishop called this eminent priority because it directly I think it has been very clearly the Marshall retweeted the bishop’s paragraph Cupich proposed. The habit “obsequious.” attacks life itself” came from an articulated opinion of the bishops’ text, adding his own brief comment: committee said the whole para- But several others, even some amendment proposed by Archbish- conference for many years that pro- “69 USA bishops voted ‘no,’ which graph would add length to a letter who regularly disagree with Cupich op Joseph Naumann. Any bishop life is still the preeminent issue. means 69 USA bishops are not Cath- already three pages long, but it en- on serious doctrinal matters, took had been free to stand and ask that It doesn’t mean the others aren’t olic.” That tweet, like Strickland’s, couraged adding the phrase Cupich the suggestion at face value, telling it be given separate consideration, equal in dignity, it’s just time, in took off into the ether of social me- said he wanted. Catholic News Agency they thought rather than be passed on a consent the certain circumstances of our dia, and soon more voices weighed On Tuesday, Cupich rose to ask the amendment was a good idea. agenda. That was exactly what Cu- Church, in the United States,” Cha- in, accusing bishops of heresy and for a reconsideration of that recom- Up to that point, the question pich had done with his proposed put said. spinelessness. mendation. He said he appreciated was about whether to include a text amendment, and Bishop McElroy The bishops applauded Chaput. The vote was over whether bish- the desire for brevity, but he wanted or to summarize that text. No one had been free to do the same. An analysis of Chaput’s remarks ops should quote a long paragraph, the whole paragraph. who had spoken disagreed with the But for some reason Bishop suggests two things: that he might or summarize it. For that, bishops From his view, the proposed substance of the paragraph; their McElroy had not asked for debate have been favor of Cupich’s amend- were accused of heresy. paragraph contains “all of the ele- conversation had been about how on the Archbishop Naumann “pre- ment, of which he said he was “not On Nov. 14, Bishop Strick- ments in the call to holiness that we best to present it. eminent priority” amendment. In- against;” and that he opposed the land weighed back in, tweeting are to exercise as faithful citizens. As the debate began, Bishop stead, he made his objection to the argument used by McElroy to sup- about “the hard data that approx He speaks about the need to make Robert McElroy of San Diego rose language a kind of diversion from port that amendment. 1/3 of the bishops voted against the sure we avoid those kinds of ideo- to speak first. He said he supported the Cardinal Cupich amendment After Chaput, Gomez said the language of ‘preeminence.’” “I pray logical frameworks that our society Cardinal Cupich’s amendment for that was then on the table. committee preferred to leave the for unity, Guarding the Deposit of today is so paralyzed in our politi- the reasons already stated, and be- In short, Bishop McElroy’s objec- long quote out, mentioned that a Faith with Pope Francis,” he added. cal discourse by, but also, he wants cause of his objection to a line in tion to “preeminent priority” was reference to the full text was made By his own tweeted admission, to make sure...that not only do we the bishops’ letter which said “the not formally manifested according in a footnote, said the committee the bishop who sparked an online avoid that, but we engage one an- threat of abortion remains our pre- to the rules of order, even though was “called to have a brief docu- backlash that ended with bishops other and he also makes sure that eminent priority because it directly it could have been. The motion on ment,” and called for a vote. being called heretics did not know we do not make one issue that a po- attacks life itself.” the table was still about the Cu- By a vote of 143-69, the bishops what they had actually voted about. litical party or group puts forward Bishop McElroy called that pich amendment. Yet, after Bishop chose the committee’s summarized The ill-interpreted rhetoric to the point where we’re going to line “at least discordant” with the McElroy spoke, Bishop Joseph text over Cupich’s preference for sparked from a vote that took place ignore all the rest of them.” pope’s teachings, though he did not Strickland of Tyler, Texas, was given a long excerpt from Pope Francis. at the fall meeting of their episcopal Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Ven- explain himself directly, or address the floor. Some bishops might have thought, conference. The bishops were dis- ice said the committee had tried repeated condemnations of abor- “I absolutely think ‘preeminent’ as Bishop Strickland did, that the cussing proposed amendments to to accommodate the cardinal’s re- tion from Pope Francis. needs to stay,” Bishop Strickland vote was on “preeminence.” But a short letter they intend to issue, quest, and suggested he could add The “preeminent quote,” Bishop said. the question was explained to them as a supplement to “Forming Con- even more additional language into McElroy did say, would be used to The bishop seemed to think that immediately before they voted; it sciences for Faithful Citizenship,” the text as a compromise. But Car- undermine what he understood the Bishop McElroy had changed the seems likely most bishops under- their 2015 document on voting and dinal Cupich was not interested in pope’s point to be in the paragraph matter up for debate. Some jour- stood what they were being asked. public life. that suggestion. suggested by Cardinal Cupich. nalists suggested he had gotten Based upon his own remarks, it is On Nov. 11, the bishops had been “I appreciate that attempt at ac- “So either we should get rid of confused. Although he made his reasonable to conclude Archbishop given the opportunity to review a commodation. My point is that this ‘preeminent,’ or, if we’re going to point plainly, “preeminent” was Chaput himself may well have vot- draft text of the letter and propose is the magisterial teaching of Pope keep ‘preeminent’ in there, let’s not up for debate, there was no for- ed in favor of including the whole changes. They had several hours to Francis put in a very succinct way, at least give the pope a fighting mal question of taking it out. He text, which he called “beautiful,” submit written amendments, which and I think we can all benefit from chance with his view, to keep that weighed in on a debate the body even while he strongly disagreed would be debated Nov. 12, before a it as we speak to our people about is- whole paragraph in there, because wasn’t actually having. with Bishop McElroy on the reasons vote on the entire letter. sues...so I would still like to have the that’s where he articulates his vi- On Nov. 12, it was Archbishop to vote for it. n A13 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

U.S. BISHOPS MEETING: CLINIC: Government cannot deny asylum-seekers CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE ‘Even with my long experience, I had never seen BALTIMORE | The executive misery and desperation like that experienced by the director of the Catholic Legal Immi- thousands of migrant men, women and children gration Network, known as CLINIC, told U.S. Catholic bishops Nov. 13 asylum-seekers living at our southern border’. that the government is violating international and U.S. law when it Anna Gallagher denies asylum-seekers at the border entry into the U.S. Unidos Asylum Project,” or “We migrants in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Yet, some 60,000 men, women Are United Asylum Project,” which across the border from El Paso, Tex- and children are forced to wait in seeks to respond to the “urgent legal as, and of an effort to build a volun- Mexico for months, said Anna Gal- needs of those stranded in Mexico, teer corps. lagher in addressing the bishops’ due to a U.S. policy that keeps asy- “Our work is just a drop in the fall general assembly in Baltimore. lum-seekers there.” bucket,” she said, adding that Gallagher spoke of her experi- She also informed them that “without skilled counsel, thou- ence as the daughter of immigrants CLINIC, along with HIAS, the He- sands of migrants will lose their from Ireland who arrived, much brew Immigrant Aid Society, were cases, be deported and face grave Anna Marie Gallagher, executive director of the Catholic Legal like those at the border, “with next the only organizations “providing danger, even death in their home Immigration Network, known as CLINIC, speaks during the fall to nothing.” Even so, she told the ongoing U.S. asylum assistance” to countries.” n general assembly of the USCCB. (BOB ROLLER | CNS) bishops, “my parents arrived with many resources: hard work, faith, resilience, and a deep respect for family and community.” But today, she sees a different 5 Year Annuity U.S. than the one her parents en- Guaranteed 3.25 Interest Rate For All 5 Years tered, she said.

When she took a trip to the bor- 13394-1122 der prior to starting her new posi- If you are tired of paying tion at CLINIC, “I saw a world that high fees to invest your is hard to understand and accept, money, then you should given our country’s resources and invest it with Catholic values,” she said. Holy Family Society. She spoke of an experience at the border seeing crowded shelters There are NO administrative fees and without adequate food and sanitary NO sales or service charges. 100% of your services and meeting migrants who had faced a variety of travails, in- money begins earning interest for you as soon as it is deposited! cluding beatings and abuse and one Currently available in the following states: who almost had a child kidnapped CO, FL, IL, IN, IA, LA, KS, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, NE, NJ, OH, PA, RI, WI in a street in Tijuana, Mexico. “Even with my long experience, I had never seen misery and desperation like that experienced by the thousands of migrant men, women and children asylum-seekers living at our southern border,” she said. For more information, contact Lisa in our She thanked the bishops for hav- Annuity Department: 800-240-2554 | 618-233-0286 Lisa Brauer, ACS ing the “foresight and wisdom to create CLINIC,” the nonprofit, legal services corporation founded by the U.S. Catholic bishops in 1988 Pilgrimage to the Shrines of the Alps to serve as a national support and resource center for dioceses in pro- JUNE 14-23, 2020 viding immigration services. Gallagher urged bishops to visit local CLINIC affiliates, saying “your presence will lift their spirits as they continue swimming against the tide,” and to speak out in favor of migrants so that “your community knows that you are there to accom- 13478-1122 pany them in their often-agonizing immigration struggle.” She also told of a new project by the organization called “Estamos Embark from Orlando on a 10-day pilgrimage to Switzerland and northern Italy. Visit Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, Lake Maggiore, Milan, Padua and Venice and experience European culture. Enhance your faith: Celebrate daily Mass with Father Peter Cordeno (Holy Name of Jesus, Indialantic), see the famous Black Madonna at the Einsiedeln Abbey, view Da Vinci’s fresco “The Last Supper” and attend Mass at historic San Marcos Cathedral in Venice.

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CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE the slogan is also part of the emotion, but we will know that HONG KONG | A bishop is call- this is not correct when we have ing on the Hong Kong government calmed down and thought twice to set up an independent inquiry about it,” said the bishop. “The into the death of a student during truth will set us free and enable the latest pro-democracy riots. us move forward. No one can live Ucanews.org reported Auxilia- in a lie.” ry Bishop Joseph Ha Chi-shing of He called for protesters to keep Hong Kong made his call during the faith and for authorities to a prayer meeting to mourn Chow refrain from trying to resolve the Tsz-lok, who died Nov. 8 after a crisis by threatening the freedom suspicious fall at a protest venue. of others. Chow, 22, a student at the Hong Chow’s death has caused wide- Kong University of Science and spread grief in Hong Kong. Technology, was found injured “This prayer is not only to in a parking lot Nov. 4 as police mourn his death but also a chance clashed with protesters. He fell to heal our hearts and pain,” Yuen into a coma while being treated Tin-yau, former president of the at the hospital and died four days Hong Kong Methodist Church and later. People in Hong Kong run from riot police tear gas Nov. 11, 2019. (THOMAS PETER, REUTERS | CNS) a retired pastor, told ucanews.org “This is something that no civi- Nov. 10. lized society should accept, and by more than 1,000 citizens at mit to establishing the cause of He also cited international ex- He said he believes the death anyone with conscience would Chater Garden in central Hong Chow’s death and then reveal it to perts as saying that the Indepen- has had a definite impact on the not accept,” Bishop Ha said at a Kong. comfort his grieving family. dent Police Complaints Council protest movement. Nov. 10 prayer service organized Ucanews.org reported media The bishop said violent inci- lacked the power and objectivity “Whether it was a demonstra- by various Christian groups, in- say Chow fell from the third floor dents were continuing to occur to conduct the inquiry, so an in- tor or a police officer, if it was due cluding the Justice and Peace to the second floor of a parking ga- and the police and demonstrators dependent committee needed to to conflict, it will definitely cause Commission of Hong Kong, Hong rage, but what he was doing there were increasingly polarized, mak- be set up immediately. greater tension in society,” he said. Kong Federation of Catholic Stu- in the first place is unknown. His ing the conflict more and more Addressing the fact that one of He called on the government to dents and the Diocesan Youth death is believed to be the first fa- difficult to resolve. the demonstration slogans had prevent the conflict from escalat- Commission. tality linked to police action dur- “I have seen a lot of public prop- shifted from “Hong Kong people, ing and added that setting up an Chow’s cause of death re- ing the anti-government and re- erties being destroyed, but what I resist” to “Hong Kong people, re- independent investigation com- mains unclear and an investiga- form demonstrations, which have could not see was that countless venge” after more protesters were mittee would be a big help. “The tion should be held to find out been going on for five months. souls, especially the hearts of injured and arrested, Bishop Ha government will be responsible the truth, Bishop Ha told the Bishop Ha said he hopes the young people, were eroded and said such slogans were dangerous. for expanding the conflict if it Nov. 10 prayer meeting attended Hong Kong government will com- tortured,” the bishop said. “Everyone has emotions, and doesn’t,” he added. n

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JUNNO AROCHO ESTEVES theme, “Criminal Justice and Cor- of Jews, gypsies and people of ho- any action capable of producing an bishops defined ecological sin as Catholic News Service porate Business.” mosexual orientation, represent a ecological disaster or destroying a sin against God and future gen- Pope Francis also denounced negative model par excellence of a an ecosystem.” erations that “manifests itself in VATICAN CITY | Following the abuse of law and legislation to throwaway culture and hate,” the Pope Francis also called on the acts and habits of pollution and through on a proposal made at the justify acts of violence and hatred. pope said. “That is what happened international community to recog- destruction of the harmony of the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon, Today’s throwaway culture, in that time and today, these things nize ecocide as a “fifth category of environment.” Pope Francis said there are plans as well as other “psycho-social are reappearing.” crime against peace.” A true model of justice, the pope to include a definition of ecological phenomenon” pose threats to the Today’s “current of punitivism, According to the Rome Statute, said, can find “its perfect incarna- sins in the church’s official teach- common good while insidiously which claims to solve social prob- which was adopted by the Inter- tion in the life of Jesus” who, after ing. promoting a “culture of hate,” he lems through the penal system,” national Criminal Court in 1998, being treated violently and put “We should be introducing— said. These threats, he added, of- has not worked, the pope said. the four core international crimes to death, brought “a message of we were thinking—in the Cat- ten take the form of “symbols and Instead, an “elementary sense of currently established are: crimes peace, forgiveness and reconcilia- echism of the Catholic Church actions that are typical of Nazism.” justice” must be applied so that against humanity, genocide, war tion.” the sin against ecology, eco- “I must confess,” the pope said, “certain conduct for which cor- crimes and crimes of aggression. “These are values that are dif- logical sin against the common departing from his prepared re- porations are usually responsible, “On this occasion, and through ficult to achieve but necessary for home,” he told participants at a marks, “that when I hear some does not go unpunished.” you,” the pope told conference par- the good life of all,” the pope said. conference on criminal justice speeches, some person in charge Chief among those crimes, he ticipants, “I would like to appeal to “I don’t think it’s a utopia, but it’s a Nov. 15. of order or the government, I am added, are acts that “can be con- all the leaders and representatives big challenge. A challenge that we Members of the International reminded of Hitler’s speeches in sidered as ‘ecocide’: the massive in this sector to help with efforts in must all address if we are to treat Association of Penal Law were 1934 and 1936.” contamination of air, land and order to ensure the adequate legal the problems of our civilized co- in Rome Nov. 13-16 for the con- “They are actions typical of water resources, the large-scale protection of our common home.” existence in a way that is rational, ference, which centered on the Nazism that, with its persecution destruction of flora and fauna, and In the synod’s final document, peaceful and democratic.” n Minority mission: Pope to encourage Thailand’s small Catholic community

CINDY WOODEN impact in schools or hospitals,” he Catholic News Service said. Most of the Catholics are of Chinese or Vietnamese descent or VATICAN CITY | The theme come from one of the “hill tribes,” of Pope Francis’ visit to Thailand such as the Karen or Akha. is focused on mission, but in the “In our Chiang Rai diocese, for Asian country where Catholics example, most of the villages are are a tiny minority, that mission is Akha, and many of them are 100% less about proclamation and more Catholic,” he said. about witness, service and dia- “In northern Thailand, there is logue. no religious conflict between Bud- The pope will visit Thailand dhists, Muslims and Christians,” Nov. 20-23 to celebrate the 350th he said. Most of the Muslims in the anniversary of the establishment north are of Chinese descent and of the Apostolic Vicariate of Siam fled to the region in the middle of Mission, the first Catholic jurisdic- the 19th century or soon after the tion in what was to become Thai- communist victory in China in land. 1949. They found peace, tolerance Today the country has 11 dio- and religious freedom in Thailand. ceses and some 389,000 Catho- The situation in three provinces lics. Although Catholics make up of southern Thailand is different less than 1% of the population, the because of the mix of ethnic, po- church runs hundreds of schools litical and religious identity. Mus- and dozens of hospitals, clinics, lims make up the majority of the homes for the elderly and orphan- population in the three provinces; ages. And women religious are they are ethnic Malay and have actively involved in combatting their own language, culture and human trafficking, especially traf- customs. ficking for prostitution. Beginning in the 1960s, in re- Cardinal Fernando Filoni, pre- action to an attempt to assimilate fect of the Congregation for the Sister Sukanya Sukchai shows newly made chasubles for Pope Francis Nov. 12, 2019, at a Catholic them into the broader Thai culture, Evangelization of Peoples, visited preparatory school in Bangkok. The pope will visit Thailand Nov. 20-23 to celebrate the 350th anniversary separatist movements began to Thailand in May to help celebrate of the establishment of the Apostolic Vicariate of Siam Mission, the first Catholic jurisdiction in what form and many of them were influ- was to become Thailand. (SOE ZEYA TUN, REUTERS | CNS) the anniversary and told Thai enced or infiltrated by fundamen- Catholics “the first form of evange- talist Islamic forces. Thousands lization is witness. The witness of the Gospel message to those who Michel, a native of St. Louis with is not so much something you do of people, both Malay and Thai, a Christian life is the first and irre- do not know Christ and his teach- a long history of international en- or organize but is the natural out- have died in sporadic outbursts of placeable form of mission.” ings.” gagement in dialogue with Mus- come of living together among violence, including 15 people who And, he said, “interreligious More than 90% of Thais are Bud- lims, now teaches and ministers at people who have come to respect were killed in early November. dialogue is a part of the church’s dhist and close to 5% are Muslim. the Xavier Learning Community, a and trust each other.” Reacting to the multireligious, evangelizing mission.” That does All Christian denominations to- high school and college the Jesuits “Muslims don’t invite me be- multicultural reality of Thailand, not mean hiding one’s Catholic gether make up just over 1% of the opened in 2017 in Chiang Rai. cause they want to engage in dia- Pope Francis is expected to refer identity or faith in Jesus as savior, population. And there are large Outside the city in Thailand’s logue, but because I am an old to the Document on Human Fra- but it does mean respecting the communities of Hindus and Sikhs. far north, the community provides friend who shares many of their ternity, which he signed in Febru- faith of others, promoting religious Pope Francis is scheduled to meet free or subsidized education to dis- values and concerns,” he wrote, ary with Egyptian Sheikh Ahmad freedom for all and cooperating in with leaders from all the commu- advantaged minorities, especially adding that “one Muslim friend el-Tayeb, grand imam of al-Azhar, projects that respond to the faiths’ nities Nov. 22 at Chulalongkorn young people from the Karen, wrote and asked if I could get him a leading authority for many Sun- calls to promote peace and the University. Akha, Lahu and Hmong peoples. a ticket to the pope’s talk at the ni Muslims. The document con- common good. Just three days before the pope In an email response to ques- university, but I haven’t succeeded demns violence and urges Chris- In that way, the cardinal said, arrives, U.S. Jesuit Father Thomas tion, Father Michel, 78, said, “After yet.” tians and Muslims to respect each dialogue also “contributes to ex- Michel will give a talk at the uni- so many years, my attitude toward “Catholics are a tiny minority other’s rights and promote dia- plaining the social dimension of versity’s Islamic Institute. Father dialogue has evolved. Dialogue in Thailand, having most of their logue. n Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 www.facebook.com/FloridaCatholic QUICK READS A18

cial services and organizations is executive director of the Catho- criminal violence or grave harm dedicated to meeting the needs of lic Community Foundation for the to the integrity of their body and people in crisis,” he said. The arch- Archdiocese of New Orleans. “From spirit.” The Nov. 14-15 conference, bishop cited statistics from abortion a personal and ‘cradle Catholic’ titled “Promoting Digital Child providers in 2014 that showed that perspective, the impact I see this Dignity—From Concept to Action,” 75% of women who chose abortion program has on the church, espe- brought together religious leaders, were poor, 60% were in their 20s cially in our mission dioceses and academics, policymakers and tech and 86% were unmarried. The year most rural parishes and schools, is industry leaders from around the would begin March 25, 2020, the inspiring,” he added. Details about world to discuss ways to combat 25th anniversary of St. John Paul the annual event can be found on the exploitation of children online. II’s encyclical “Evangelium Vitae” the website https://www.igive- According to the pontifical acad- (“The Gospel of Life”). He called the catholic.org. It includes informa- emy’s website, the event was “a year “Walking With Moms in Need: tion about an advanced giving day follow-up of the process that began A Year of Service.” period that begins Nov. 18. with a joint commitment for the protection of children during the Youth from Iowa are seen at the closing Mass of the 2017 National Fairbanks bishop WORLD Child Dignity in the Digital World Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis. This year the Archdiocese meeting in 2017.” of Dubuque is sending about 1,800 people to the Nov. 21-23 biennial hopes move will event, and the Iowa youth are also helping teens in California and help priest shortage Chile bishops Pope, Anglican Alaska to attend. (ELIZABETH SCHLARMANN, THE WITNESS | CNS) BALTIMORE | Not many may urge talks to end archbishop affirm NATION all immigrants in the United States. notice the Diocese of Fairbanks, desire to visit South “We’re not just praying for the jus- Alaska, is being removed from the protests, injustice tices to be on the right side today, list of missionary dioceses around country faces Sudan together Iowa youth help we’re praying for elected officials to the world dependent on the Con- VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis wake up and to finally give a solu- gregation for the Evangelization LIMA, Peru | Chile’s bishops and Anglican Archbishop Justin other teens get to tion for the 700,000 DACA recipients of Peoples. But Fairbanks Bishop called for national dialogue and Welby of Canterbury, spiritual lead- national youth living in this country,” said Jose Ar- Chad W. Zielinski hopes the move an end to the violence that has er of the Anglican Communion, nulfo Cabrera, a DACA recipient will catch the attention of other wracked the country for the past said they would travel together to conference and the director of education and U.S. bishops and spur them to heed month. Their pleas to end the vio- south Sudan if the country’s leaders DUBUQUE, Iowa | The Archdio- advocacy for migration for the Igna- Pope Francis’ call for more mis- lent protests came in two messages fulfill their promise to form a tran- cese of Dubuque is once again this tian Solidarity Network. The prayer sionary disciples to serve places after demonstrators sacked the As- sitional government by late Feb- year sending the largest delegation gathering—which was followed by such as his diocese. On Nov. 11, the sumption of Mary Parish in San- ruary. The pope and Archbishop in the country to the National Cath- a walk to the steps of the Supreme Vatican announced this change tiago, the Chilean capital, Nov. 8, Welby met at the Vatican Nov. 13 olic Youth Conference in Indianap- Court, joining others participat- for the Fairbanks Diocese, and it burning pews and statues. Other while the Anglican leader was in olis. From Nov. 21-23, more than ing in the national Home is Here will now be under the direction of parishes also were attacked, includ- Rome to install a new director of the 1,200 teens and more than 400 adult campaign rally—was co-sponsored the Congregation of Bishops. Some ing one in the southern city of Val- city’s Anglican Centre. “During the chaperones from across the archdi- by the U.S. Conference of Catholic hope the move for Fairbanks will paraiso. “We are pained by the mis- friendly discussions, the condition ocese will be attending the biennial Bishops’ Justice for Immigrants, lead to greater collaboration with treatment of people, the constant of Christians in the world was men- event, which usually draws close to the Ignatian Solidarity Network, the U.S. Conference of Catholic looting and the violence, whatever tioned, as well as certain situations 23,000 participants. While having a the Catholic social justice lobby Bishops, which is from now on re- its source,” the bishops wrote in a of international crisis, particularly large number of NCYC participants Network and others. “It’s time that sponsible for diocese’s missionary, statement Nov. 9. “We are hurt by the sorrowful situation in south Su- is not new for the Iowa archdiocese, we give them (DACA recipients) a pastoral and economic concerns. the attack on churches and places dan,” the Vatican press office said in the effort by its young people to help solution. It’s time that they are rec- One of the greatest of those con- of prayer with no respect for God for a statement later. “At the end of the their peers from other dioceses also ognized as the Americans that they cerns, said Bishop Zielinski, is the those who believe in him. Churches meeting,” the statement continued, attend is taking place for the first grew up as, and that they are,” Ca- shortage of priests. He told Catholic and other places of worship are sa- “the Holy Father and the archbish- time. Participants from parishes in brera said. In 2017, President Don- News Service the hope is that others cred.” The bishops said they “radi- op of Canterbury agreed that if the the archdiocese have raised more ald Trump issued an executive or- will “embrace the reality that we’re cally oppose injustice and violence” political situation in the country than $5,000 for the Archdiocese of der to end the DACA program. The still a mission diocese and we have and called for those responsible to permits the creation of a transition- Anchorage, Alaska, and the Dio- resulting legal challenges led to the missionary needs. We only have 18 be identified and punished through al government of national unity in cese of San Bernardino, California, Supreme Court hearing the case on priests serving 46 parishes. Three of the judicial system. Violent protest- the coming 100 days, according to to help offset travel costs for teens in the program’s future. those priests are over the age of 70. ers “only impede us from paying the timing set by the recent agree- those locations who wish to attend One of them is over the age of 90. So, due attention to the just demands ment signed in Entebbe, in Uganda, NCYC. This funding help was the Archbishop invites we have a crisis, a clergy crisis.” of the majority of Chilean people, it is their intention to visit South Su- idea of Kevin Feyen, director of ado- who long for real and peaceful solu- dan together.” lescent faith formation for the Arch- church to join a Nearly 40 U.S. tions,” they wrote. diocese of Dubuque. While talking year of service to dioceses sign up High Court to about NCYC with other diocesan Pope calls on tech hear arguments in directors from around the country, pregnant women to participate in giants to protect Feyen learned how expensive it was BALTIMORE | Archbishop Jo- Cardinal Pell’s case for dioceses in the western part of seph F. Naumann sees the day that #GivingTuesday children online the U.S. to send their young people. Catholic parishes can be one of the WASHINGTON | Thirty-nine SYDNEY | The High Court of “The price for them to attend NCYC first places a woman facing an un- U.S. archdioceses and dioceses plan VATICAN CITY | While digital Australia has decided to give Cardi- was three times more than it is for expected or challenging pregnancy to participate in this year’s #iGive- technologies have led to advance- nal George Pell, 78, a final chance to our teens,” Feyen told The Witness, can turn to for assistance rather Catholic online giving day Dec. 3 to ments in communication and argue against his conviction on five Dubuque’s archdiocesan newspa- than think of seeking an abortion. raise funds for 3,600 Catholic orga- education, they also have led to counts of child sexual abuse. High per. To that end, the archbishop of Kan- nizations. The day is called #Giv- the exploitation of children on the Court Justices Michelle Gordon and sas City, Kansas, who is chairman ingTuesday, and #iGiveCatholic of- internet, Pope Francis said. The James Edelman announced Nov. 13 Catholics lead of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on ficials have seen participation grow “spread of images of abuse or the that they referred the cardinal’s ap- Pro-Life Activities, invited his fellow each year since the event was cre- exploitation of minors is increas- peal application to the full, seven- rosary on way to bishops to devote a year of service to ated and launched by the Archdio- ing exponentially, involving ever member court. The unusual move DACA rally outside pregnant women starting in March. cese of New Orleans in 2015. That more serious and violent forms of means the full court will decide In a presentation the first day of the year, the archdiocese was the only abuse and ever younger children,” whether to hear the appeal and, if Supreme Court U.S. Conference of Catholic Bish- participant, collecting $1.3 million. the pope told participants at a two- it does, will proceed to hear argu- WASHINGTON | As the U.S. Su- ops’ fall general assembly, the arch- Last year, 29 archdioceses and dio- day conference sponsored by the ments about why the conviction preme Court justices prepared to bishop said Nov. 11 parishes could ceses participated and raised $5.6 Pontifical Academy for Social Sci- should be overturned or upheld. hear oral arguments in a case on offer a variety of support services to million. “As Catholics, we are taught ences. “The challenge before us,” The justices gave Cardinal Pell’s the Deferred Action for Childhood women who may be thinking about that we are responsible for all gifts he told them Nov. 14, “is to ensure lawyers until Jan. 8 to file their ar- Arrivals program the morning of whether to carry their child to term. we have been entrusted with, and that minors have safe access to guments for the appeal and said the Nov. 12, Catholics met at Colum- “Women facing challenging preg- we are compelled to give back from these technologies, while at the prosecutors must respond by Feb- bus Circle in Washington to pray nancies should see the church as our gratitude and stewardship same time ensuring their healthy ruary. No date for the hearing was the rosary for the intention of all a place where they can find help, of those gifts,” said Cory Howat, and serene development and pro- announced, but it is unlikely to be DACA recipients, their families and especially with our myriad of so- president of #iGiveCatholic, who tecting them from unacceptable before March. A19 VATICAN NEWS Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

WORDS OF POPE FRANCIS Religious fundamentalism is a ‘plague

VATICAN CITY | Interreligious 2002 and was inspired by then- all religions to reflect on ways of dialogue is an important way to Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio as becoming “channels of brother- counter fundamentalist groups a way “to promote understanding hood instead of walls of division,” as well as the unjust accusation among men and women of differ- he said. that religions sow division, Pope ent religious traditions in our city To see the dangers of funda- Francis said. and the world.” mentalism, Christians must also Meeting with members of the The pope welcomed the mem- reflect on their own history, he Argentine Institute for Interreli- bers of the institute who are in said, including the Thirty Years’ gious Dialogue Nov. 18, the pope Rome to reflect on the document War, which began in 1618 as a said that in “today’s precarious on “human fraternity” and im- conflict between Catholic and world, dialogue among religions proving Christian-Muslim rela- Protestant states, and the St. Bar- is not a weakness. It finds its rea- tions, which was signed Feb. 4 by tholomew’s Day massacre of 1572, son for being in the dialogue of Pope Francis and Sheikh Ahmad which saw the targeted assassina- God with humanity.” el-Tayeb, the grand imam of al- tions of Huguenots by Catholic Recalling a scene from the Azhar and a leading religious au- mobs in France. 11th-century poem, “The Song thority for many Sunni Muslims. “A bit of history should fright- of Roland,” in which Christians The intention of the document, en us,” the pope said. “Whoever threatened Muslims “to choose the pope explained, was a way doesn’t feel frightened from with- A demonstrator near the Cathedral in Nicaragua, looks at pictures between baptism or death,” the to adopt a “culture of dialogue” in should ask themselves why.” of protesters who died during the protests against President Daniel pope denounced the fundamen- while respecting each other’s Pope Francis said he hoped Ortega’s government last year. (OSWALDO RIVAS, REUTERS | CNS) talist mentality which “we cannot unique identity. that the document on “human accept nor understand and can- “This is key: Identity cannot be fraternity” would be “welcomed not function anymore.” negotiated because if you negoti- by the international community, Nicaraguan authorities “We must beware of funda- ate your identity, there is no dia- for the good of the human family mentalist groups; each (religion) logue, there is submission. Each who must pass from simple toler- has their own. In Argentina, there (religion) with its own identity are ance to true and peaceful coexis- are some fundamentalist corners on the path” of dialogue,” he said. tence.” block priest, families there,” he said. “Fundamentalism The “complex human reality” “It is important to show that we is a plague and all religions have of brotherhood, the pope con- believers are a factor of peace for some fundamentalist first cous- tinued, can be seen in scripture human societies and in doing so, from attending Mass in,” he said. when God asks Cain about the we will respond to those who un- According to its website, the In- whereabouts of his brother. justly accuse religions of inciting CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE ‘We only want to stitute for Interreligious Dialogue That same question must be hatred and causing violence,” the was founded in Buenos Aires in asked today and lead members of pope said. n MEXICO CITY | A Nicaraguan celebrate the Eucharist. priest has denounced intimidation Let the world see and by the police, who surrounded his parish in the city of Masaya, cut know that there is not Efforts to protect life include promoting disarmament power and water to the building freedom of worship in and prevented family members of CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE political prisoners from attending a Nicaragua.’ Mass in their honor. VATICAN CITY | A commit- Mass was celebrated Nov. 14, in — Father Edwing Roman ment to defending and protecting Masaya, but only a small number of human life requires a commitment families could enter the parish. Vid- Nicaragua’s bishops have to ending wars and to promoting eos shared on social media show called for peace and promoted a nuclear disarmament, Pope Fran- Father Edwing Roman attempting national dialogue, which broke cis said. to bring the families through police down because of “a lack of con- “Using nuclear weapons is im- lines in front of St. Michael Parish. sensus among the parties.” Priests moral,” the pope said in a video “We only want to celebrate the also opened parishes to provide message released Nov. 18. The Eucharist,” he can be heard saying shelter and assistance to wounded video was a greeting to the people as police blocked his path. protesters and have accompanied of Japan in advance of the pope’s He later told the press from the families of the victims. The bish- arrival there Nov. 23. Then-Pope John Paul II prays in 1981 at a monument for the victims doors of his parish, “Let the world ops themselves have come under “The theme chosen for my visit of the atomic bombing in Hiroshima, Japan. Pope Francis'said using see and know that there is not free- attack and attempts at intimida- is ‘Protect All Life,’” the pope said nuclear weapons is “immoral.” (L'OSSERVATORE ROMANO | CNS) dom of worship in Nicaragua.” tion; Auxiliary Bishop Silvio Jose in the video. The bishops of Japan Father Roman then added in a Baez of Managua, an outspoken chose the theme from the prayer how important it is to promote a Expressing his hope “to ap- message directed at President Dan- critic of the Ortega regime, was Pope Francis wrote to conclude his “culture of dialogue and frater- preciate that great natural beauty iel Ortega and Vice President Ro- called to Rome for his own safety encyclical “Laudato Si’, on Care for nity, especially among the differ- that characterizes your nation,” sario Murillo, “(They) are showing in April. Our Common Home.” ent religious traditions,” the pope the pope said he also would en- their weakness, that they’re in an Bishop Baez tweeted Nov. 15 that In the video, the pope said that said, adding that he hoped his courage efforts “to promote and unstable position and that one of he had spoken to Father Roman and the “strong instinct, which reso- visit would encourage people “on strengthen the protection of life these day Nicaragua will toss them the situation had calmed down, but nates in our hearts, to defend the the path of mutual respect and that includes the earth, our com- into the trash bin of history.” not after the police cut power and value and dignity of every human encounter.” mon home.” n Protesters rose up against Ortega water to the parish. The victims’ person acquires particular im- in April 2018, but were violently re- families who had remained inside portance in the face of the threats pressed as he clung to power and the church after the Mass were car- to peaceful coexistence that the accused them of “coup mongering” rying out a hunger strike, he said. world faces today, especially in and “terrorism.” At least 13 individuals trying to armed conflicts.” Human rights groups and in- bring supplies to the hunger strikers Japan knows “the suffering CatholicCatholicCatholic Ministries MinistriesMinistries ternational organizations put were rebuffed by police and later ar- caused by war,” he said. “Together FINDINGFINDINGFINDING TRUE TRUE FINANCIAL FINANCIAL FREEDOMFREEDOM FREEDOM the death toll from the protests at rested, according to media reports. with you, I pray that the destruc- nearly 300. Amnesty International Father Roman has come to tive power of nuclear weapons will

ParishParish based based small small groupgroup studies 13033-1108 accused the police and paramili- prominence as priest attending to never again be unleashed in hu- Parish based small group studies taries loyal to Ortega of employing the victims of government repres- man history. Using nuclear weap- ononon personal personal nances nances nances a policy against protesters of “shoot sion, but also being intimidated for ons is immoral.” to kill.” his work. n The people of Japan also know 407-878-7637407-878-7637407-878-7637 CompassCatholic.org CompassCatholic.org CompassCatholic.org Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 www.facebook.com/FloridaCatholic SUNDAY WORD and SCRIPTURE A20

SCRIPTURE The story of Ignatius and his journey to faith readings

Sunday, Nov. 24 the surgery without anesthesia. God. He would become a soldier Society of Jesus. Better known Friday, Nov. 22 The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, When he finally healed, one leg for Christ. as the Jesuits, it is a fellowship Memorial of St. Cecilia, virgin and martyr King of the Universe remained shorter than the other. He traveled on donkey to the of men dedicated to the glory of 1 Mc 4:36-37, 52-59; (Ps) 1 Chr 29:10b-12; 2 Sm 5:1-3; Ps 122:1-5; Col 1:12-20; Lk For the remainder of his life, Igna- Benedictine shrine of Our Lady of God. Inspired by the spirituality Lk 19:45-48 23:35-43 tius walked with a limp. Montserrat. There he made a gen- of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the Je- The long recuperation eral confession in writ- suits have established countless Saturday, Nov. 23 Ignatius found himself facing was dull. Unable to find ing. Following the code missions, universities, and retreat 1 Mc 6:1-13; Ps 9:2-4, 6, 16b, 19; Lk surrender or death. The Span- any romance novels to of chivalry, he knelt all centers. 20:27-40 iards in May of 1521 were defend- pass the time, Ignatius night in vigil before Our You do not have to travel to the ing the fortress of the town of read the only two books Lady’s altar. He left his 16th century shrine of Our Lady of Sunday, Nov. 24 Pamplona against the French. As available, a book on the sword and knife at the Montserrat to give glory to God. The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King the Spaniards were enormously life of Christ and a book altar, gave away all his When you are home alone, get a of the Universe outnumbered, the commander on the saints. To his sur- fine clothes to a poor crucifix. Go over to the kitchen 2 Sm 5:1-3; Ps 122:1-5; Col 1:12-20; Lk wanted to surrender. Ignatius prise, the more he read, man, and dressed in table. Put your wallet, car keys, 23:35-43 convinced him to fight on, if not the more he considered rough clothes with san- house key, cell phone, family pho- for victory, for the honor of Spain. the saints worth imitat- dals and a staff. His old to on the table. Kneel down. Hold Monday, Nov. 25 Then a cannon ball crashed into ing. He dreamed of emu- SUNDAY life was over. His new onto the crucifix. Hold onto the Dn 1:1-6, 8-20; (Ps) Dn 3:52-56; Lk 21:1-4 Ignatius. One leg was wounded lating their exploits in WORD life, thanks to a leg-shat- one who holds heaven and earth, and the other leg broken. The fasting, pilgrimages, and tering cannonball, had our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Tuesday, Nov. 26 victorious French soldiers so ad- penance. Father begun. Universe. Dn 2:31-45; Daniel (Ps) Dn 3:57-61; Lk mired his courage that, rather Ignatius noticed that David Ignatius dedicated his Say, “Lord, I’m tired of waiting, 21:5-11 than capturing him, they brought after reading and think- life to serve a new king. tired of wasting time, wonder- Wednesday, Nov. 27 him to his castle of Loyola where ing of the saints and Scotchie Not the Spanish king on ing what it is all about, fighting he could heal. Christ he felt peace and a throne, but the king battles. I turn my car keys, house Dn 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28; (Ps) Dn 3:62- The doctors had to break his joy. Meanwhile, after who had knelt down to keys, family, health, plans, re- 67; Lk 21:12-19 leg and reset it. Ignatius endured thinking of a certain noble lady wash the feet of his disciples. This grets, joys, sorrows and cell phone Thursday, Nov. 28 the operation without anesthe- whose love he imagined winning King of the Jews, wearing a crown over to your care. I trust you with sia. Despite their efforts, he grew through battlefield glory, he felt of thorns and hanging on the everything dear to me. I put them Thanksgiving Day worse. He was told to prepare for restless and unsatisfied. His feel- cross, had returned mockery with in your service for your kingdom Sir 50:22-24; Ps 138:1-5; 1 Cor 1:3-9; Lk death. Only death was not ready ings were leading him to a new mercy on the criminal, “Amen, I where you live and reign today, 17:11-19 for Ignatius and he recovered. Al- way of life. say to you, today you will be with tomorrow, world without end. Friday, Nov. 29 though his leg healed, the bone By the time he had recovered me in Paradise” (Lk 23:43). Igna- Amen.” n protruded below the knee. Igna- from his wounds, he had made up tius’ king takes away the world’s Dn 7:2-14; (Ps) Dn 3:75-81; Lk 21:29-33 tius could not imagine being un- his mind. He set aside his old de- lust, greed, envy, pride, despair, Father Scotchie is the pastor of Saturday, Nov. 30 able to wear the long, tight-fitting sires of romance and worldly con- selfishness, hunger, poverty, and Most Precious Blood Parish in Feast of St. Andrew, apostle boots and hose of the courtier. He quests. He still wanted glory. Only war. This king makes peace by the Oviedo. He is the co-author of had the doctors re-break and reset it would not be glory for himself. blood of his cross. “Rites of Passage: Preaching Bap- Rom 10:9-18; Ps 19:8-11; Mt 4:18-22 his leg. Once again, he endured He would serve for the glory of Ignatius went on to found the tisms, Weddings, and Funerals.” Sunday, Dec. 1 First Sunday of Advent Is 2:1-5; Ps 122: 1-9; Rom 13:11-14; Mt Open hearts to fulfillment of God’s promises 24:37-44 Monday, Dec. 2 Sunday, Dec. 1 their swords into plowshares and It is easy to read Paul’s list of time, is to keep our eyes set on the Is 4:2-6; Mt 8:5-11 First Sunday of Advent their spears into pruning hooks”? sins that need to be put aside and prize. Tuesday, Dec. 3 Advent assures us that, be very much aware of For us, Advent is always a time Is 2:1-5; Ps 122: 1-9; Rom 13:11-14; Mt Memorial of St. Francis Xavier, priest 24:37-44 even when it seems im- how that list challenges to become readier each day for our possible, God will share others. definitive goal, the life of heaven. Is 11:1-10; Lk 10:21-24 I remember watching the news his peace with us. The tough thing is It is that readiness to which Jesus Wednesday, Dec. 4 with a friend in the 1980s, and What gets in the way to read that list for our- calls us: “So too, you also must be Is 25: 6-10a; Mt 15:29-37 we’d occasionally look at each of our being open to the selves. What are the ar- prepared, for at an hour you do other and say: “The world is going gifts with which the Lord eas of my life where the not expect, the Son of Man will Thursday, Dec. 5 to hell in a handbasket!” wants to shower us? St. Lord is drawing me to come.” Is 26:1-6; Mt 7:21, 24-27 Three decades and change lat- Paul tells us that we need conversion this Advent, As we prepare for Christmas er, there is much that is happen- to “awake from sleep.” We so that I will be ready and 2019, I invite you to be aware of Friday, Dec. 6 ing in the world, in our country, look at the world around SUNDAY awake to receive the gift what obstacles to receiving Je- Is 29:17-24; Mt 9:27-31 and in the Church that can lead to us, not with fearful or WORD he promises me, the gift sus with joy there are in your the conviction that our worst fears judging hearts, but be- Father of his Son? life and in the life of your fam- Saturday, Dec. 7 had already come to pass. But as ing very much aware of The moral life involves ily. What awaits us is not a bitter Memorial of St. Ambrose, bishop and doctor we enter the season of Advent and the ways we have accom- Alfredo allowing Christ to live future, but perfect joy with the of the Church this new liturgical year, the Chris- modated ourselves to its Hernández in us, in a sense wearing Lord. The Psalmist expressed Is 30:19-21, 23-26; Mt 9:35–10:1, 5a, 6-8 tian answer must always be one of values. We look at our our Christmas garment, it so beautiful long ago: “I re- hope. Our readings today, while own lives and acknowl- the garment that is Christ joiced because they said to me, Sunday, Dec. 8 they also call us to conversion, edge how we have become, to use himself, throughout the Advent ‘We will go up to the house of the Second Sunday of Advent first of all invite us to hope. a word Pope Francis often uses, season: “But put on the Lord Jesus LORD.’ And now we have set foot Is 11:1-10; Rom 15:4-9; Mt 3:1-12 “The days are coming, says worldly. St. Paul’s charge to the Christ, and make no provision for within your gates, O Jerusalem.” the Lord, when I will fulfill the Christians of Rome is still valid the desires of the flesh.” Do we Our goal is to live in the house of promise....” Through the prophet for us today: “Let us then throw have enough hope to try it on? the Lord. Isaiah God promises the People off the works of darkness and put In the Gospel, Jesus Himself This Advent, may we open of Israel to fulfill His promises to on the armor of light.” If we don’t continues with the image of wake- our hearts to the fulfillment of them, and we Christians know want to fall prey to the ways in fulness and makes some sugges- all of God’s promises, for the day that it is in Christ that all bless- which the world is corrupt, then tions for living in the light: “Be- is coming indeed! Lord, fill our ings God has promised are given. the challenge is to love differently ware that your hearts do not be- hearts with hope this Advent. n What promises has God made to than the world. It is not easy, but come drowsy from carousing and us, the brothers and sisters of his the hope of Advent tells us it is drunkenness and the anxieties of Father Alfredo Hernández is Vice Son, Jesus Christ? In what ways possible. daily life, and that day catch you Rector and Academic Dean of St. do we await the fulfillment of the Concretely, Advent calls us to by surprise like a trap.” The ulti- Vincent de Pail Regional Seminary promise of peace: “They shall beat change, even when tough. mate act of hope, in a confused in Boynton Beach. A21 CLASSIFIEDS Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

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How you can’t have one feast without the other t might be pretty obvious that you& cannot have AdventChristmas without Christmas, but it’s also true as a Catholic Christian, COOL ACTIVITIES FOR THE ADVENT SEASON you really can’t have Christmas without Advent.

Advent generally starts the Sun- day closest to Nov. 30, which in the case of 2019 is Dec. 1. The feast runs until Christmas Eve — Dec. 24. Advent is a Latin word meaning “the coming.” And who is coming? Jesus. It is the birth of Christ we celebrate on Christmas, which is the celebration of the coming of the savior. Which is why it is so important • Set up a Nativity. A Nativity scene people and a visit can make all the think about each other. Personalizing a to have Advent before the celebra- (or crèche) is the use of statues to re- difference. You could even take a tray of traditional Advent calendar could be a tion of Christmas. The preparation create Jesus’ first moments in the stable food to share or a decoration that might family project. Advent calendars come in is one of a journey. How would we with Mary and Joseph. Some scenes also help them remember the importance of all shapes and sizes — from cardboard welcome Jesus in our homes? What include animals, angels and the three the season. pieces to doll houses. The basic pattern type of community and world kings who visited Jesus. But before you is that a “door” can be opened each day would we want to offer the infant set that up, perhaps clean up the space • Take a trip to the store with peo- of Advent, which holds a surprise. child? What are the virtues in our where it would sit, and keep it empty for ple in need in mind. There are always But instead of finding a piece of This graphic illustrates a tree a while. Like the season of Advent — a volunteer opportunities available, and chocolate or a toy place something more own hearts in celebrating the birth decorated with tags that reveal season of preparation for the coming food pantries are always in need. See reflective. A promise to say only good of the Lord’s son? “wish list” items for people in — you could use that empty space to how much food you can buy with $5, things to people. A reminder to buy extra Many times the preparation for need. reflect and prepare. Put a basket in the $10, $15 or $20, then you can donate it food for the poor. A prayer for a family Christmas focuses on lights, deco- center of the space where you and your to a shelter or pantry. Don’t forget about member. A Bible verse to remember for rations, dinners, parties, gifts and across 4,000 years of history. Each family can put in notes that express providing the basics you might take for the day (To find out what the Scripture trees, and that might be OK, if one ornament corresponds with a bibli- your hopes — for you, your family, your granted — soap, shampoo, toothpaste, readings are for each day of Advent, visit thinks about those things beyond a cal passage describing the people, friends, leaders and people all over the hair brushes and a toothbrush. Those the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ secular context. For instance, lights prophesies, and events leading up world. Write prayers for loved ones or could be others item on your shopping Web site at www.usccb.org/nab). could relate to an Advent Wreath. to the birth of Jesus. people you know who are sick, lonely or list. Dinner and parties remind the Which brings us to Christmas, in need of love. Then, the scene becomes • Think outside the box with faithful of the importance of open- which actually starts on Christmas a place where Jesus filled the place you • Participate in the practice of an family Advent projects. Maybe if ing their hearts and doors to fam- Eve, but it definitely doesn’t end put all your hopes and prayers. Advent wreath with family. Maybe you want the calendar to be different, ily and friends, in person and in when the sun sets on Dec. 25. The the best time to say the prayers and light you could use a mini-Christmas prayer. Christmas feast continues for an • Visit someone who lives alone the candles is at dinnertime after the tree. Each day a different family A tree could be more than a octave (that means “eight days”). or is in a nursing home. The holiday blessing of the food. Ask your religious member hangs an ornament on Christmas tree with cute Minion The eighth day after Christmas season could be a lonely time for some education director or parish priest or the tree or puts a present under the tree (something small; it or Santa ornaments; it could be a is New Year’s Day — Jan. 1 — the religious about the traditional prayers could be handmade) and with it, they giving tree with ornaments that solemnity of Mary the Mother of used during the lighting of the Advent wreath candles. share something about a person who list gifts to buy for people in need. God. It is the oldest feast of Mary inspires them — a friend, family member Or even a Jesse Tree, which is deco- celebrated by the Catholic Church. • Create an Advent calendar for or Catholic saint they read about — and rated with illustrated ornaments Now, while the Christmas feast your own family. An Advent calendar how we are challenged to positively that tell the story of God in the Old might end on Jan. 1, the season lasts offers a daily reminder of the celebration touch people’s lives everyday. Testament, connecting the Advent until the Epiphany, also known as to come on Dec. 25. The history of the Your Advent calendar could also be season with the faithfulness of God Three Kings Day. calendars goes back to the 1800s and linear. Use strips of pink and purple they usually start on Dec. 1. While many paper with a message or Bible verse Advent calendars focus Santa, Legos upon them. Each day, share what’s on and reindeer, a family Advent calendar the strip, loop the strip into a ring and offers everyone the opportunity to connect the loops to make a long chain. This Advent be like Mary What is a great way to If ever there is an example of how miss traditions established during signify the light of Christ to celebrate Advent, it is Mary, the the celebration of Christmas. But mother of Jesus. we can make sure any plans are — the light of the world? How did Mary handle that first steeped with a spiritual reflection. By lighting candles! Advent in the days leading to the What did Mary do leading up to that Along with an Advent birth of the Savior? As a moment first Advent? Mary primarily re- of physical and spiritual prepara- joiced in God. She proclaimed "the calendar, families tion. Mary's quiet "yes" to the angel greatness of the Lord." She realized should make an advent Gabriel, she didn't ask questions or what a great gift God had given her. candle wreath. protest. Instead, we heard: "Behold, "For he has looked upon his hand- I am the handmaid of the Lord. May maid's lowliness," she says in the it be done to me according to your Magnificat. It is made up of three purple candles (which symbolize the prayer, pen- word," (Lk 1:38) Focus that energy on bringing ance and preparatory sacrifices and good works you do during Advent) While Catholics can emulate the holy day back to a religious fo- and one pink or rose candle. Purple candles are lit on the first, second and Mary's quiet holiness at Advent, cus. Make Advent a true season of fourth Sundays of Advent. that does not mean the joy of early awaiting the arrival of the light, as Pink is lit on the third Sunday, Gaudete Sunday. You’ll notice your parish Christmas traditions are things of Mary did, of rejoicing for the bless- priest will wear rose vestments at Mass that Sunday, which is a Sunday of the past. Mary was social during the ings that God has provided, and of rejoicing because we, the faithful, reached the midpoint of Advent and now months leading to her son's birth. the future promises that come to us prepare for Christmas — Christ’s birth. Today, we, too, shouldn't dis- by welcoming Christ into our lives. Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019 www.facebook.com/FloridaCatholic ADVENT B3

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT REFLECTIONS Imaging your Advent game plan

EFFIE CALDAROLA ers during Advent. But call them Catholic News Service during December and ask when they might most need help in the “Stay awake.” coming year. With this terse command, the But remember poverty comes in Gospel of Matthew begins our sea- many forms. Each day, we encoun- son of Advent on Sunday, Dec. 1. ter the poor among us, and in times How rich and rewarding will be of sadness or illness or even eco- the 24 days of this season if we keep nomic distress, we are the poor. We those words in our heart each day. should always remember our unity Stay awake, “for you do not know with the poor, our need to see Jesus on which day your Lord will come.” in ourselves and in those who strug- December is a busy, hyperac- gle around us daily. tive month, and maybe we’d rather Bring a smile and a kind word hear Jesus say, “Take a snooze.” Of to the overworked store clerk, say a course, the Lord is not urging us prayer for those you encounter who to forgo healthy sleep or to live out are rude. Remind yourself — stay the busy month of December in A woman prays the rosary before awake — that you don’t know how a caffeine-induced stupor, some- A volunteer serves a meal at a soup kitchen in Buenos Aires, Mass. Since Jesus is truly present people are struggling. Tip gener- thing we’re prone to do during the Argentina, Oct. 4, 2019. Always remember that Jesus is present to to us in the Eucharist, perhaps ously, smile often, hold the door for holidays anyway. us in the poor. As Pope Francis tells us, “The poor save us because we could make a commitment someone. On the contrary, the Gospel read- they enable us to encounter the face of Jesus Christ.” (AGUSTIN to daily Mass, each week during Stay awake to little opportunities. ing for the First Sunday of Advent is MARCARIAN, REUTERS | CNS) Advent. (BOB ROLLER | CNS) Think of someone who may receive an invitation to slow down and be no Christmas cards and send one. present to what’s important. To do in the Eucharist, perhaps we could ence through the day. given him food or drink? When did Visit a lonely neighbor or relative. this in the midst of the holiday fren- make a commitment to daily Mass, Always remember that Jesus is I visit the prisoner or the sick, clothe Stay awake to need, and be grate- zy, we need a game plan for Advent. or an extra Mass each week. Give up present to us in the poor. As Pope the naked? In a world where mil- ful for those who are present to your Perhaps those two simple words, a lunch hour or rise early for Mass Francis tells us, “The poor save us lions upon millions are fleeing war, needs. “stay awake,” can serve as a prayer on the way to work or school. because they enable us to encounter poverty and terror, when did I at- The 24 days of Advent are busy. commitment each morning. It’s an Jesus is present to us in scripture. the face of Jesus Christ.” tempt to welcome the stranger? But it would be tragic to let consum- invitation to be present to the Lord Reading the daily scripture readings No one is more helpless than a Matthew’s Gospel states that our erism and consumption overtake and to the poor among us, a simple is a beautiful Advent commitment. baby, one born to the underclass, lives will be judged based on how we our encounter with Jesus. prayer that will lead us to an aware- Rather than a cursory reading, be to people unimportant in the eyes answer these questions. Mass, scripture, an encounter ness of the God who waits to en- open to which text most touches of the world. Jesus was such a child, During Advent, consider how you with the poor - these bring us to counter us each day. you and spend time there. Read and called to be a refugee, seeking asy- encounter and perceive the poor. God’s presence. That little mantra could follow us reread it, slowly and prayerfully. lum in a journey into Egypt. His Writing a check is great — Catholic Review each day and make note through the day, in the midst of rush Where is God being revealed to you whole life revealed a compassion for Relief Services, Jesuit Refugee Ser- of where you encountered Jesus. Be- hour traffic, squabbling children, there? and communion with the poor. He vice, your local Catholic Charities gin each day with the voice of Jesus holiday preparations, too many to- The rich readings of Advent — calls us to be awake to the poor. — these and many more need your asking you to stay awake and pre- dos. Simply return to that prayer. the beauty of Isaiah, the lyricism of During Advent, reread The Last help. But try to find a way to actually pare a way for the Lord. n “Help me stay awake to your pres- Luke — can be savored with early Judgment scene in Matthew’s be present to the poor. ence, Lord.” morning candlelight and hot coffee. Chapter 25. Ask yourself, when have Sometimes shelters and food Caldarola is a freelance writer and a Since Jesus is truly present to us This will help you carry Jesus’ pres- I seen Jesus hungry or thirsty and kitchens are overwhelmed by help- columnist for Catholic News Service. Advent meditation: Dreaming with St. Joseph SHEMAIAH GONZALEZ thoughts are prayer? Connecting remnant, again. And Joseph woke from his sleep, Catholic News Service the two worlds together? But this Joseph, the carpenter, rested and sure of you. He did as You spoke to Joseph through the one who would raise your Son you commanded and took Mary Pray along with this meditation a dream. Betrothed to Mary, he here on earth, you spoke to him into his home. In his rest, he saw inspired by Matthew 1:18-24. discovered she was pregnant. He through an angel in a dream. The your truth, that they were placed You speak to us in dreams. knew he could not go through angel said, “Do not be afraid to in a lowly position for a time such Sometimes it is the only occasion with the wedding, but he loved her take Mary into your home.” as this. Joseph listened and was you find us still and quiet. Quiet and was kind. He decided to end it The child within her was con- able to be part of your story for enough to hear your voice. Still quietly. ceived through the Holy Spirit. The eternity. enough to grab our attention. He did not want to expose her same Spirit who spoke through the As we ponder the mystery of You whisper to us throughout shame. To do so, meant Mary prophets, saying, “Behold, the vir- Emmanuel, God with us, speak to the day, reminding us you are would have been judged publicly gin shall be with child and bear a us in our sleep, O Lord. present and that you delight in us. — and then stoned. A frightening son.” The angel told Joseph that May our bodies pray the prayers But we cannot hear you. position to think of our dear moth- this child “will save his people we cannot speak during the day. So you come to us in our sleep, er in, the mother of our Lord. from their sins” and “they shall May our restless souls rest in you. the liminal space between this You spoke to Joseph through a name him Emmanuel.” May we hear your words — and lis- world and the one where your glo- dream. Just like his namesake so Emmanuel, “God is with us.” ten. May we be certain that you are ry dwells. Is this why sometimes many years before, the one who’s God came down from heaven to here with us. it is only rest that will comfort us? dream raised him to the house of St. Joseph and Jesus are depicted be with us. To remind us that you Connect your worlds together When we have run our bodies and kings. Joseph, son of Jacob. Living in a stained-glass window. love us, that you delight in your in our sleep so that we may find our minds ragged until we col- in the house of Pharaoh, Joseph (GREGORY A. SHEMITZ | CNS) children. That you want to be with you more clearly in our waking lapse? In sleep, we find ourselves could save your people when fam- us. You are with us in our dreams, hours. n in your arms. ine ravaged the country and Israel his brothers inflicted on him, you in our breath and in the Eucharist Wendell Berry said, “Sleep is was out of food. meant for good. He had come to that saves us from the famine that Gonzalez is a freelance writer. Her the prayer the body prays.” Is this Joseph knew you through his his royal position for a time such ravages our own hearts, keeping website is www.shemaiahgonzalez. why sometimes our first waking dreams and saw that the harm as this, to save your people, your us from you. com. B4 ADVENT Florida Catholic Nov. 22-Dec. 5, 2019

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SAINTS OF ADVENT Below is a short list of some of the saints whose lives we celebrate during Advent. Could you follow their example on their feast days? What does it really mean

MARY: She played an important ST. NICHOLAS: Think of Santa role in Jesus’ life and in our lives as Claus? Think of St. Nicholas, a fourth- well. Two Marian feasts fall during century Greek bishop who was to observe Advent? Advent, including Dec. 8, the Solem- known for his works of justice and nity of the Immaculate Conception charity. Do a good deed on Dec. 6 in HILLARY MAST (in which we celebrate Mary being remembrance of St. Nicholas. Catholic News Agency Christmas conceived without sin) and the Feast ST. LUCY: She dedicated her life to cards made of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Dec. 12). by junior being a Christian when it was illegal, DENVER, Colo. | With the first What can we learn from Mary? Love, and gave up her wealth to serve the high school loyalty, justice and being humble. poor. Think of the less fortunate (and Sunday of Advent behind us, the students ST. FRANCIS XAVIER: This saint, maybe do something for them) on liturgical season of preparing for at Aquinas a missionary who brought the Gospel Dec. 13, in remembrance of St. Lucy. Christmas is well underway. Institute in But what does it actually mean to those in India, Mozambique, the Other saints during Advent: St. Rochester, Philippines and Japan, converted John of Damascus, Dec. 4; St. to “observe Advent?” The observa- N.Y., are tens of thousands of people who had Ambrose, Dec. 7; St. Juan Diego, tion of other liturgical seasons may ready to be never heard of Jesus to Christianity. Dec. 9; St. John of the Cross, be more readily apparent — Lent is distributed On Dec. 3, spread the good news in Dec. 14; and St. Peter Canisius, clearly a time for prayer, sacrifice to people remembrance of St. Francis Xavier. Dec. 21. and almsgiving, while Christmas served by and Easter are clearly times for cel- adult day care ebration. at St. Ann’s Search Pinterest for “how to cel- Community History of the Christmas tree tradition ebrate Advent” and everything from in Rochester. The decorating of an evergreen be up the day after Thanksgiv- ideas for a do-it-yourself Jesse Tree, (MIKE CRUPI, tree at Christmas as we know it ing as is done in so many homes to instructions for a handmade Ad- CATHOLIC COURIER can be traced back to an old Ger- today. vent calendar bunting, to a tutorial | CNS) man custom, and more popularly Customarily the tree should be on “how to make your own wreath known, Victorian England. adorned with little family trea- from foraged materials” appears. Just as the evergreen wreath sures and religious symbols. The penitential time of prepara- symbolizes eternity and fi- Bright balls and lights are tion before Christmas seems to have go to confession.” next liturgical season that comes delity, so the lush evergreen fine also and lend a fes- taken on a crafty life of its own over For Kathryn Whitaker of the blog, up, you can do more. Or you can do tree can said to represent tive touch especially for the last few years, thanks to websites “Team Whitaker,” observing Advent less.” the same. children of all ages, as such as Pinterest and Instructables. is all about knowing what works Much like Whitaker, Bonnie Eng- Scripture is filled do handmade garlands Add in a few glowing shots of your best for your family. strom of the blog “A Knotted Life” with the significance of from natural items, friend’s handcrafted nativity set on “There are lots and lots of beau- said that the best way for a fam- trees, in both the Old such as popcorn or her Instagram feed and you’ve got a tiful ideas on Pinterest and other ily to observe Advent is by “look- and New Testaments, berries; little birds are recipe for some serious Advent-en- places, but I think you have to find ing through the options and seeing see the Psalm below. very appropriate for vy. While all of these crafts and ac- what suits your family and then what will work for them, what will Generally the tree is the symbolism and tivities can help one better celebrate not apologize or feel badly because help them create meaningful les- not decorated until late dried plants and fruits. Christmas, it’s important not to let someone else is doing it differently,” sons and memories during that sea- Christmas Eve as Advent The idea of jolly San- them distract from the true purpose she said. son of their family’s life.” is still a season of penance, if not tas, elves, Christmas puppies in of the season: preparation for the In an attempt to dial back the “Then you just gotta walk away as filled with sorrow as Lent is. socks, etc., are of more recent de- Incarnation, said Fr. Mike Schmitz, frenzy of Christmas morning, she from the rest, appreciating that it However, some families find velopment and not appropriate chaplain for the Newman Center at said her family began to look for works for some but confident that the preparation for Mass the next because we are celebrating Jesus’ the University of Minnesota Duluth. ways to serve others and be grate- you’re doing a good job.” day Christmas dinner to be of birthday. Fr. Schmitz told Catholic News ful for what they already have in the In recent years, the Engstroms such importance that the Christ- Many families place the crèche Agency that one of the things that weeks leading up to it. have “scaled back our Advent ac- mas Eve is taken up with these under the tree and gifts, if ex- gets easily overlooked about Advent “I think for us, it’s just been about tivities by a ton” by just focusing on preparations, so on the Third changed, are not placed there is “that it’s actually a season of pen- pouring a little bit more love, par- the Advent wreath and a few saints’ Sunday of Advent, they choose to until Christmas Day or after Mid- ance” and as such, the Church asks ticularly in these next four weeks, in feast days. Festivities that many put up the family tree. night Mass. us to practice prayer, fasting, and everything that we do.” Americans typically do in the time Certainly the tree should not Source: Catholic Tradition almsgiving. The Whitakers pick a local family before Christmas — such as looking “That’s kind of like the buzzkill in need to “adopt” each year by pro- at light displays, drinking cocoa and of Advent because it’s like, ‘OK, viding gifts and food, or they donate watching Christmas movies — are don’t have too much fun because, presents to Brown Santa — a tradi- all saved for the actual Christmas remember, this is a penitential sea- tion named for the brown uniforms season. “It has greatly bolstered son’,” he said. members of the Travis County, Christmas beyond December 25th However, just because it’s a sea- Texas Sheriff’s Office wear that pro- and has brought a lot more peace son of penance doesn’t mean we vides assistance to underprivileged and joy to our home, while greatly need to be somber. residents, particularly during the reducing the stress,” she said, which “I think there’s some great ways Christmas season. is a definite “win-win.” that a person or a family can make That, plus “lighting” her kinder- Gradually filling the nativity that — prayer, fasting, and almsgiv- gartner’s Advent wreath — made scene, adding ornaments to their ing — a part of the celebration of from tissue paper and toilet paper Jesse Tree and celebrating St. Nich- preparation for Christmas. It doesn’t rolls — and having a Jesse Tree, an olas’ feast day with her kids are all have to be a dour kind of experi- ancient tradition of decorating a tree fun ways that Engstrom said she ence,” he said. with ornaments that represent the can “trick them into learning about The simplest way Catholics can story of salvation, will make up their their faith.” prepare for Christmas, Fr. Schmitz Advent, which also includes Mass While engaging her kids in cel- suggested, is by going to confession and confession. ebrating Advent is important, she during Advent. Over the years, Whitaker and her said observing this season has also “During Advent the faithful are family have adapted their Advent helped her grow in her relationship asked not only to prepare them- season to their “family season.” with God.

13560-1122 selves to celebrate Christmas, but The year that she and her husband “The silence, the simple beauty, we’re called to prepare ourselves to brought their premature son home the focus on preparation,” she said, meet Jesus at the end of time,” he from the hospital, for example, all “those things have really helped me said. they could do was put up the Christ- create the still in my interior and ex- “There’s a lot of good ways to do mas tree with some ornaments. terior life for God to speak to me.” that, but I think one of the best ways “And that was OK,” she said. “And Essentially, there’s not just one a person could possibly do that is to then knowing next Advent, or the way to do Advent, and that’s fine. n