FACEBOOK @FLORIDACATHOLIC | Feb. 19-25, 2021 FLORIDACatholic PALM BEACH DIOCESE Dedicated to Jesus in virginity Simi Sahu enters order of virgins living in the world
CECILIA PADILLA of the Florida Catholic staff
PALM BEACH GARDENS | Dressed in a flowing gown of white lace, Simi Sahu approached the beautifully decorated sanctuary of the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Feb. 11, 2021, ready to be consecrated to a life of virginity for women living in the world. Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito addressed the young wom- an with three questions: “Are you resolved to persevere to the end of your days in the holy state of virginity and in the service of God and his Church? Are you resolved to follow Christ in the spirit of the Gospel that your whole life may be a faithful witness to God’s love and a convincing sign of the kingdom of heaven? Are you resolved to accept solemn con- secration as a bride of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God?” To these questions Sahu humbly, yet with conviction, answered a resounding, “I am.” With these words, Sahu became the first con- FYI secrate virgin from • To view Simi Sahu’s Rite of the St. Thomas Syro Consecration to a Life of Virginity for Malabar Diocese of Women Living in the World from Feb. Chicago. She received 11, 2021, visit the Diocese of Palm special permission Beach Office of Vocations Facebook from Bishop Mar Jacob @PBVocations. Angadiath to remain • To read the March 2020 Syro-Malabar Catholic Florida Catholic interview with Simi and is now joining the Sahu as she shares her faith journey Order of Virgins at the During the Rite of Consecration to a Life of Virginity for Women Living in the World, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito and more about consecrated virgin- Diocese of Palm Beach. places a ring on Simi Sahu’s finger saying, “Receive the ring that marks you as a bride of Christ. Keep unstained your ity, visit www.thefloridacatholic.org. Although there are oth- fidelity to your bridegroom, that you may one day be admitted to the wedding feast of everlasting joy.” (PHOTOS er consecrated virgins BY CECILIA PADILLA | FC) living in the Diocese of Palm Beach, she is the first to receive formation and be con- who made sacrifice of marriage for the sake of the love of secrated in the diocese. which it is the sign. They renounce the joys of human mar- What is a consecrated virgin? The Office of Vocations riage but, cherish all that it foreshadows.” of the Diocese of Palm Beach explained that in the New The rite continues, “Those who choose chastity have Testament, we find the image of the Church as the Bride looked upon the face of Christ, its origin and inspiration. of Christ. This image reveals the intimate relationship Je- They give themselves wholly to Christ, the son of the ever- sus wants with those who believe in him. Since apostolic virgin Mary, and the heavenly bridegroom of those who in times, this expression of the mystery of the Church has his honor dedicate themselves to the lasting virginity.” been demonstrated by women who are dedicated to Jesus These words are further symbolized in Sahu receiving in virginity. They experience the spiritual fertility of an a veil and ring from the bishop, denoting her commitment intimate relationship with him and offer the fruits of this and devotion to her bridegroom, Jesus. The bishop also pre- relationship to the Church and the world. Consecrated sented her with the Liturgy of the Hours, “the prayer of the virgins dedicate their life in prayer and service to the Church.” Bishop Barbarito said to Sahu, “May the praise of Church but, unlike nuns and sisters, they live and work in our heavenly Faither be always on your lips, pray without the secular world. This vocation is rare with only around Simi Sahu humbly lays on the ground during the Litany ceasing for the salvation of the whole world.” 200 Consecrated Virgins in the United States, and around of the Saints. At the end of the Mass, Sahu turned to her family and 4,000 in the world. friends in the pews, as well as to those watching from home, Sahu’s consecration was greatly anticipated, not only be- — tuned in from home via the livestream feed provided by to express her gratitude for all those who saw her through cause it was a first for many to witness in the Diocese of Palm Shalom Media. Members of the Emmanuel Church family, the discernment process. She reflected on what it means to Beach, but also because of its almost year-long postpone- where Sahu works as the parish accountant, were also pres- become a consecrated virgin during present times. ment from March 25, 2020. Shortly before the original date ent. Sahu said, “I always wondered what the Second Vatican of consecration, the COVID-19 pandemic caused the diocese Sahu chose a new date of consecration that coincided with Council fathers had in mind to be proclaiming Christ as to suspend Masses to the public, forcing Sahu to postpone the feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes, an image of the Blessed bridegroom in this vocation for some women to image the her plans. Mother who visited young Bernadette Soubirous with the church as bride of Christ. I thought how interesting it was That did not deter the young woman, however, from un- intention of inspiring others to follow more deeply her son, they chose the late 1960s to be proclaiming this vocation. dergoing an extended discernment process. On Feb. 11, 2021, Jesus Christ. The cathedral was decorated for a wedding cel- And 2021, hardly seems like a better time for such a spousal a limited number of family and friends sat in the pews of the ebration with lilac tulle lining the main aisle and brightly and amorous title for Jesus to be called the bridegroom. It cathedral socially distanced and wearing facial coverings, colored floral arrangements displayed on the altar steps. seems a little bit much and maybe even a little shocking eagerly awaiting to see Sahu walk down the aisle. Many of This image of Sahu as the bride of Christ is outlined in the but, perhaps this title was made exactly for a time like this. her loved ones — in the United States and in her native India language of the rite, “God’s loving wisdom chooses those Who is bridegroom if not Jesus?” n 2 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Facebook @FloridaCatholic Feb. 19-25, 2021 The Order of Virgins: A prophetic vocation Editor’s note: The following is Bishop Gerald Barbarito’s homily during the consecration to the Order of Virgins of Simi Tresa Sahu, Feb. 11, 2021.
FLORIDA Simi, my sister in Christ, it was almost a year ago, on the feast of Catholic the Annunciation, that you were DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH to be consecrated in the Order of Virgins. Due to the restrictions im- Vol. 82 posed upon us by the coronavirus, that celebration was wisely post- 9995 North Military Trail poned until today, the feast of Our Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 Lady of Lourdes. You chose both 561-775-9500 • Fax 561-630-2698 days in honor of the Blessed Vir- gin Mary. We are all so joyful to be PUBLISHER Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito here, your family, your friends, as well as those not DIRECTOR OF able to be here COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING but are watch- and SOCIAL MEDIA ing this celebra- Jennifer Trefelner [email protected] tion through 561-775-9529 livestreaming. This is truly a day DIOCESAN EDITOR for the Church, Cecilia Padilla LIVING THE our Diocese and [email protected] TRUTH IN for all society so Simi Sahu, third from left, celebrates her consecration with Bishop Gerald Barbarito, center, her family, 561-775-9528 LOVE much in need including her sister, far left, mother, father and brother. (CECILIA PADILLA | FC) Bishop of the word and • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: example you are speaks directly to the healing that its revival in the Second Vatican and act right. Let’s talk about how. Call 1-888-275-9953, or email Gerald [email protected] giving today. is needed. You become a conse- Council. Many centuries after Let us dare to dream.” Virginity to- Barbarito A great deal crated person by embracing a life its disappearance in a radically day and always has been a dream Notify us of address changes (temporary has occurred of virginity so as to become the transformed historical context, in which we can see clearly, choose or permanent) as soon as possible. Please since last year. spouse of Christ, entering into a the public witness of consecrated well, act rightly and thus be pos- change your address online at Facebook @ Obviously, the pandemic has been more intimate relationship with virginity renewed itself in a world sessed by the truth so much need- FloridaCatholic or call 1-888-275-9953. ever present and has caused a great Him. You become a visible sign that needed such witness. ed today and throughout history. deal of suffering, fear, uncertainty, to all of us that Christ is the Way, On May 31 of last year, the feast I would like to close my reflec- • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at 407-373-0075 or and a continued loss of normalcy. the Truth and the Life and it is a of Pentecost, our Holy Father, Pope tion with the words addressed by [email protected] A great deal has also occurred in personal relationship with Him Francis, addressed the consecrated the Holy Father to all the virgins • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at the world, our country, and our that is the foundation of all of our virgins of the world on the occa- of the Church last year on Pente- 1-888-275-9953, or communities. Heightened levels of lives in the vocations to which He sion of the 50th anniversary of the cost. These words truly can be ad- [email protected] mistrust are present, violence has has called us, be it as consecrated reintroduction of the Order of Vir- dressed to you today, Simi, as you become more prominent, and a men and women, priests, deacons, gins into the life of the Church. He consecrate yourself as a virgin in State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; new anger is present which touch- married couples, single persons, expressed to them, “Your vocation the Church and in our Diocese. The Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- es almost every aspect of life. It is younger, older and in whatever is a sign of the inexhaustible and Pope said, “I would say this to you: free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 more difficult to discern the fac- daily occupations we carry out. manifold richness of the gifts of the do not extinguish the prophetic na- tual truth of what is before us. The You will receive symbols that mark Spirit of the Risen Lord, who makes ture of your vocation! You have been EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: ultimate truth of God is pushed your consecration and spousal all things new (cf. Rev 21:5). It is like- called, not because of your own Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade further and further away echoing relationship: a ring, a veil and the wise a sign of hope, pointing to the merits, but by God’s mercy, to make Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu Pilate’s question to Jesus, “What is Church’s constant prayer to God, fidelity of the Father, who even to- your lives a reflection of the face of Office Manager: Kristen Maheu truth?” It is obvious that we live in the Liturgy of the Hours. You will day, awakens in the hearts of some the Church, the Bride of Christ.” Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko a context in which it is believed we continue to live in the world and women that desire to be consecrat- My sister, we are all grateful to you Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael can re-create ourselves in an alter- to carry out your daily life and oc- ed to the Lord in virginity, lived out for daring to dream by heeding the Carlock nate manner from that which God cupation but with a consecration in a concrete social and cultural set- call of a prophetic vocation and for Advertising Graphic Designer: has made us in so many ways. We to the Lord that is sacrificial and ting, rooted in a particular Church, being a visible sign of the need that Michael Jimenez are losing our identity as made in at the same time life-giving for you and expressed in a way of life that is we all possess for Christ who alone Have a comment/want more info/ the image and likeness of God as and for all of us. ancient, yet modern and ever new.” heals us and the world. have a story suggestion? Leave your well as being created by Him in a The Order of virgins has been Pope Francis often speaks of We pray to Our Lady: Virgin of feedback at Facebook @FloridaCatholic; particular way. The very meaning present in the Church from its ear- the need to dream. He has done virgins, gate of heaven, inspire and click reader feedback link in the top menu. of marriage and family life is be- liest times. Some of the great saints so as he opened this Year of St Jo- accompany this, our sister, Simi, ing lost. As we celebrate the Feast of the early Church were virgins seph who was spoken to by God that she may have the gift of spiri- Send statewide news releases to [email protected] of Our Lady of Lourdes, we recog- who also became martyrs. Saints in dreams. The Pope often speaks tual discernment. As a pilgrim in nize the need for radical healing Agatha, Lucy, Agnes, Cecelia, of the dreams of God and those of the world may she live the dream of in ourselves, in our nation and in mentioned in the first Eucharistic himself and recently published a prophecy with freedom and cour- All contents copyright © 2021, The Florida our world and we look to the Virgin prayer, were among them. As other personal book of reflections, Let age and with determination and Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from Mother of God as a healer through forms of consecrated life emerged Us Dream. Speaking of the crisis tenderness. May the Lord, through Catholic News Service. her Son. in the Church, particularly the we face today, he says in his book, His Mother, continue to bring to Simi, today you make a public religious communities, the Order “To come out of this crisis better, fulfillment the good work He has commitment in the Church which of Virgins began to decrease until we have to see clearly, choose well, begun in you. n
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LINDA REEVES commitment is to the protection of Florida Catholic correspondent our parish community,” Decubellis said. “We will continue to do so for BOCA RATON | Although the as long as we are needed. We thank pandemic has limited activities for Father Medina for allowing us to many church groups with commu- assist in this important responsibil- nity outreach focuses, the Knights ity.” of Columbus Council 11241 of Our The Knights have focused many Lady of Lourdes Church in Boca of their efforts into parishioner Raton has taken this challenging engagement over the pandemic time as an opportunity to adapted months through increased spiritu- to their community’s needs. al works and faith-based activities. “We are a real working council,” Bible studies, a men’s retreat and said Joseph Garofalow, a council several faith enrichment programs member present at Our Lady of are planned for the Lenten season Lourdes Church with fellow Knights to help men better prepare for faith Jan. 30 and 31, 2021, distributing journeys leading up to Easter. thousands of eight-ounce bottles “We have had an amazing year,” of hand sanitizer to those attending Decubellis said. “I am so proud of weekend Masses. individuals who have stepped up The January service project was to the plate. Father Medina is ex- one of several new initiatives the tremely supportive. He makes sure council has carried out over the we have all the resources we need past year to keep its members con- and is so good about helping us nected and steadfast in mission out.” during the COVID-19 pandemic. In December 2020, the council Garofalow and his fellow Knights was ranked number two out of 400 donned gloves and facial coverings local councils for their member- to distribute 7,000 bottles of hand Scott Decubellis, Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 11241, offers Marie George, a ship drive and recruitment efforts. sanitizer, a commodity that has be- parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, a bottle of hand sanitizer. The council distributed the sanitizer Membership is once again on the come a critical staple. At times, it is to people attending Masses, Jan. 30 and 31, 2021, as part of a community outreach project the men rise with 26 new members this year. impossible to find on store shelves organized. Shown in the background is John Kanig and Richard Daddieco helping with the project. Honors of distinction include the and can be overpriced, making it (LINDA REEVES | FC) “Star Award,” a prestigious recogni- an expense for those who have lost tion by the Florida State council for work due to business closures. “The Knights of Columbus have been the front-runners in providing a safe high performance in overall opera- Marie George, a parishioner, tions. expressed her surprise and thanks environment in our church, in addition to strengthening parishioners’ faith and “The Knights of Columbus have when she was given a bottle of calling them to return to Sunday Mass.” — Father Medina been the front-runners in providing the sanitizer as she walked up to a safe environment in our church, the church. “Is it free?” she asked. in addition to strengthening pa- “Thank you. God bless you.” “I thought about my brother of the pandemic, the council in- The Knights have kept a watchful rishioners’ faith and calling them Product Management Group, Knights and how it could be used to creased their commitment to keep- eye out during Masses making sure to return to Sunday Mass,” said Fa- a Boca Raton company, donated serve the community,” Decubellis ing parishioners safe by adding new everyone is wearing a mask and so- ther Medina in recognition of the seven pallets of the sanitizer to said. activities to their agenda. When lo- cial distancing. Council members Knights’ service and dedication. n Scott Decubellis, Grand Knight Council 11241 has more than 220 cal churches reopened to the public also took charge of sanitizing the of the parish council. Decubellis members ready to serve but, some in May 2020, the men stepped up to church after Masses cleaning the To learn more about the Knights explained that the sanitizer was of the organization’s traditional help their pastor, Father Eduardo pews, rails and doorknobs to make of Columbus Council 11241 of Our part of a surplus, and the company works of service have been put on Medina, with reopening measures the environment clean and virus Lady of Lourdes Church in Boca Ra- wanted to give it to someone who hold or planned with new safety and with a mind for moving for- free. ton, visit lourdeschurchboca.org or could put it to good use. protocols in mind. With the onset ward. “As Knights of Columbus, our call 561-483-2440. IT’S TIME TO LOVE YOUR KITCHEN AGAIN CATHOLIC CITIZENSHIP ESSAY CONTEST
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Saint John Paul II Academy in Boca Raton held a ceremony recognizing three student award winners for the Knights of Columbus 2020-2021 Catholic Citizenship Essay Contest. This contest encourages youth to be more connected to their community and their faith. The goal of this program is to involve young Catholics in civic discourse and instill in them religious and life-affirming values. The students wrote an Schedule Your FREE Design Consultation NOW: essay of 500 to 750 words discussing how trusting in God during a difficult time has helped many people 14203-0219 ® (844) 617-1817 find the strength and hope to endure it. Essay contest winners Grace Rodriguez (class of 2021), Zenya Hours: Mon - Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 10am - 4pm EST Gallagher (class of 2021) and Mia Fortugno (class of 2024) received their awards from representatives from the St. Jude Parish Knights of Columbus. (COURTESY) 4 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Facebook @FloridaCatholic Feb. 19-25, 2021 Students honor grandparents, elderly through virtual message STAFF REPORT
WEST PALM BEACH | On Jan. 31, Pope Francis established World Day for Grandparents and Elderly, which will take place annually on the fourth Sunday in July, coincid- ing with the feasts of Sts. Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Je- sus. Pope Francis recalled the feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple when the elderly Simeon and Anna encountered the child Jesus and recognized him as the Messiah. “The Holy Spirit even to- day stirs up thoughts and words of wisdom in the elderly,” the pope said, adding the voice of the elderly “is precious … because it sings the praises of God and preserves the roots of the peoples.” This is a Christian value that students at St. Ann School in West Palm Beach recognized and honored during Catholic Schools Week in late January 2021, when a day was dedicated to celebrating the value grandparents bring to A screenshot from St. Ann School website discussing Catholic Schools Week. www.stannwpb.org the Catholic faith and family life. Schools typically invite grandpar- making video messages for their half of the grandparents who could tions. That they may pass on the stanncatholicschoolwpb. Stay con- ents to visit campus on this day loved ones. “A couple of students not be there for Catholic Schools fruits of their mature human and nected with the Office of Catho- for a special Mass, luncheons and were talking about how they didn’t Week. spiritual traditions to the younger lic Schools of the Diocese of Palm special school activities. But since get to see their grandparents for Father Rodriguez prayed, “May generations.” n Beach online at diocesepbschools. many students could not celebrate Christmas, which, for some, is the grandparents continue to be, for org. For updates on the 18 diocesan with their grandparents due to CO- only time they get to visit,” Twist their families, strong pillars of To learn more about St. Ann School, Catholic schools, follow the office on VID-19, Danielle Twist, a second said. “One family shared with me Gospel faith, guardians of the visit stannwpb.org or call 561-832- Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ grade teacher and religious direc- that their grandmother usually noble domestic ideals, and living 3676. Follow the school on Face- DoPBCatholicSchools. tor at St. Ann School, collaborated travels from New Jersey specifi- treasures of sound religious tradi- book, Instagram and Twitter @ with classroom teachers to create cally for Grandparents Day. The video greetings for grandparents family said their grandmother was living near and far. teary-eyed and was so appreciative “Since St. Ann is the grandpar- after watching the video message.” Fathers and sons encouraged to have ent of Jesus, she’s also the grand- The videos made include a vari- parent of the Church,” Twist said. ety of messages, songs, lists of rea- “I thought it would be nice for us, sons why the students love their ‘the talk’ through LoveEd as a school, to give grandparents grandparents, prayers and more. the opportunity to see their grand- Father Nestor Rodriguez, pastor, The Office of Family Life of the sexuality, which is fully articulated children and preserve those rela- and Father Dennis Gonzales, paro- Diocese of Palm Beach brings the in Catholic teaching. It is an age tionships, even if in a small way.” chial vicar, opened the video with a faithful of the diocese LoveEd by appropriate, gender specific pro- Students were thrilled to be greeting and special prayer on be- Saint Benedict Press. These virtual gram designed to give parents the courses help families, parishes and knowledge and support they need schools empower parents to teach to discuss what is often an uncom- both the theology and science of fortable topic develop closer rela- human sexuality within the con- tionships with their children. text of God’s plan for love and life. The upcoming sessions It helps young people discover the of LoveEd are being offered beauty and the purpose of their specifically for fathers and sons beginning Feb. 26, 2021, from 6:30- 8:30 p.m. (parent only introduction William E. Boyes session); Feb. 27 from 9-11 a.m. Visit us on (fathers and sons, ages 9-11); Feb. John Farina 27 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (father Peter Matwiczyk Facebook and sons, ages 11-14). To register, visit https:// • Wills, trusts and guardianship litigation and find new content www.diocesepb.org/index. • Estate and trust planning and administration throughout each day. cfm?fuseaction=events. details&Content_Id=501766 &returnTo=main or contact 3300 PGA Blvd., Suite 600 [email protected] Beth Zanotelli, Diocese of Palm Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 [email protected] FLORIDACatholic Beach Office of Family Life, at 561- 561-694-7979 [email protected] 775-9553 or email bzanotelli@ 11202-0219 diocesepb.org. 5 FLORIDA NEWS Facebook @FloridaCatholic Feb. 19-25, 2021 Catholics observe Lent 2021 16TH ANNUAL CAMPAIGN FLORIDA CATHOLIC STAFF
ORLANDO | Lent. La Cuaresma. Sezon nan Karèm. Beginning Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17, Catholics worldwide observe the next 40 days of Lent to recall and honor Je- sus’ temptation in the desert and ulti- mate sacrifice for God’s people. Drop-off locations ready As Catholics observe this somber season of grief, the Florida Catholic to receive shirts has compiled inspirational quotes within several videos to provide in- ORLANDO | With the 16th an- HOW TO HELP spiration and hope during personal nual Long-Sleeve Relief Drive un- Lenten journeys. The 30-second vid- derway, the Florida Catholic has COLLECTING SHIRTS eos are meant to remind viewers of partnered with several locations • Hold a drive in your parish. the hope and appreciation that can across the state to serve as collec- • Run bulletin announcements. blossom during Lent as it leads up to tion sites for long-sleeve shirts. At • Arrange for delivery of the Easter Sunday. press time, four Farmworker As- shirts to the closest specified col- Just as the Catholic Church reminds sociation offices and four St. Vin- its members to partake in days of fast- cent de Paul thrift stores and one lection/distribution sites. ing and abstinence, it also reminds the Catholic Charities office. • If you are participating, con- faithful the verses of Matthew 6:16-18: While the number of collection tact Kristen Maheu with your name “When you fast, do not look gloomy sites are fewer than in years past, and/or the name of your organiza- like the hypocrites. They neglect their much because of safety issues re- tion at: [email protected] appearance, so that they may appear to lated to COVID-19, commitment or call 407-373-0075. others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, to the campaign is even greater. they have received their reward. But The pandemic has brought health MONETARY CONTRIBUTIONS when you fast, anoint your head and and economic challenges to the • If you choose to make a mon- wash your face, so that you may not ap- already financially challenged etary donation, make your check pear to others to be fasting, except to farmworker community. payable to the Florida Catholic and your Father who is hidden. And your The Florida Catholic and its mail to: Long Sleeve Relief, PO Box Father who sees what is hidden will re- partners hope the community at 4993, Orlando, FL 32802-4993 pay you.” large continued to support this Lent brings with it an observance of campaign. Shirts are always wel- Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins that culmi- come, but note that small, me- Blvd. 239-573-0217; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., nates to the Triduum — Holy Thursday, dium and large long -sleeve shirts Saturdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Good Friday and Holy Saturday — and are the best sizes to donate. Easter Sunday, when the triumph of Farmworker Association of- CATHOLIC CHARITIES Christ’s resurrection becomes a cele- fices have also said there is a need • Riviera Beach— St. Francis bration that brings new hope to Chris- for diapers and feminine hygiene Center, 100 W. 20th Street tians everywhere. products. Those can be donated Call for drop off — 561-360-3327; The Florida Catholic hopes its se- to those office sites and Catholic 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. ries of short, Lenten videos — which Charities, along with shirts. Along with those collection will soon be available in Spanish and The following are collection sites, there are parishes partici- Haitian Creole — might accompany sites at press time. More locations pating in the campaign as well. the faithful and all our readers on their will be added though updates. Up- A PDF of parishes is available at own journey towards Easter. CLICK to-date PDFs are made available https://www.thefloridacatholic. HERE for the first video, and check our online at https://www.theflori- org/news/advocacy/long-sleeve- website every week for a new video. n dacatholic.org/news/advocacy/ relief/ long-sleeve-relief/ Orlando Diocese For listings below, office times St. John Vianney, Orlando; Our Lady
Know Someone With Cancer? St. Peregrine Devotion are Monday through Fridays. of the Lakes, Deltona; Blessed Sacra- ment Parish, Cocoa; St. Gerard Mission, (or other life-threatening illness?) Franciscan Friars P.O. Box 598 FARMWORKER Edgewater; Immaculate Conception, Mount Vernon, ASSOCIATION OFFICES Melbourne Beach, St. Margaret Mary, • Apopka — 1264 Apopka Blvd. Winter Park; St. Andrew, Orlando, Holy St. Peregrine prayed and the Lord miraculously New York 10551 cured his cancer. You need only ask St. Peregrine [email protected] Redeemer, Kissimmee; St. Mary Mag- to intercede for your friend or family member. PAD22126 407-886-5151; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. dalen, Altamonte Springs, Divine Mercy, • Pierson — 111 Fountain Drive Merritt Island. God answers all prayers. 386-749-9826; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Novena of Hope: St. Peregrine • Immokalee — 106 S. 2nd Street, Palm Beach Diocese Also ask St. Peregrine to intercede with Suite, 10; St. Mary, Pahokee; St. Vincent Ferrer, the Lord to make your loved one Dear Fathers: 407-886-5151; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Delray Beach, St. Lucie, Port Saint Lucie; ready for the moment when a loving Please include me in your Novena • Fellsmere — 29 S. Maple Street St. John the Evangelist, Boca Raton. God comes to meet us face-to-face. to St. Peregrine and send me a 772-453-9425 or 772-571-0081 FREE prayer folder and blessed 10 a.m. -7 p.m. Venice Diocese A SPECIAL NOVENA OF medal. I will join you in prayer. St. Agnes, Naples; Incarnation, MASSES AND PRAYERS ST. VINCENT DE PAUL Sarasota; St. William, Naples; Our Lady to seek the aid of St. Peregrine – THRIFT STORES of Light, Estero. NAME (Please Print) Patron of those afflicted with cancer or • Apopka — 770 S. Orange Blos- som Trail Tax-deductible, monetary con- other life-threatening illness – will start EMAIL 407-886-0940; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. tributions are always welcome March 11. Please send your intentions STREET • Clermont — 601 E. Highway 50 and can sent to the Orlando of- today and ask for your free folder and 352-242-0357; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. fice of the Florida Catholic (see blessed St. Peregrine medal. God is our CITY STATE ZIP CODE • Bradenton — 1111 8th Ave. W. box above). At press time, with
comfort and hope. 14292-0219 941-746-0622; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. only two days officially into the Or enter your information at: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.. campaign, $400 has already been franciscanmissionassoc.org/pad • Cape Coral —2023 Del Prado donated. n 6 FLORIDA NEWS Facebook @FloridaCatholic Feb. 19-25, 2021
SCULPTOR DEDICATES CAREER TO BIBLE MIAMI | Some large-scale sculptors literally joined together. And as a near- ‘Angels Unawares’ arrives make abstract art to fulfill their egos. life-size artwork, “Angels Unawares” Timothy Schmalz finds a different source shows individual hats, faces and cloth- of inspiration: holy writ. ing styles. That gives them poise and Schmalz, a Canadian artist, is the humanity. at ‘the South’s Ellis Island’ creator of “Angels Unawares,” a huge “I wanted to give dignity to a lot ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO bronze sculpture that’s on display in of people,” Schmalz said. “They don’t Florida Catholic staff Miami’s Bayfront Park, 301 Biscayne look like Greek goddesses. They’re real Blvd., until April 8, 2021. The sculpture, people. That’s so important.” showing a 20-foot-long boat crowded MIAMI | In South Florida, the Schmalz also wants viewers to reflect boat full of refugees rests on sand, with refugees from various lands, was on their own lives and pasts, to remem- in a grassy corner of Bayfront Park, commissioned and blessed by Pope ber migration in their heritage as well. facing Biscayne Boulevard and Francis. If we’re all from someplace else, we’re three blocks south of the Freedom The original stands in St. Peter’s literally in the same boat. Tower. Square; a replica has been on a U.S. “When you see scripture, you see “Angels Unawares,” a mas- tour since April 2020. yourself,” Schmalz said. “You can’t look sive bronze sculpture honoring “I believe there is an aspect of God’s at any angle (of “Angels Unawares”) migrants and refugees, arrived will in what I’m doing,” Schmalz, 51, without seeing your ancestors or from Atlanta the morning of Feb. said by phone from his home in St. yourself.” 9, 2021. It was met by a crane and Jacobs, Ontario. “Artwork has the po- The way Schmalz tells it, the genesis crew of workers from Florida Le- tential to show unity, harmony, showing of “Angels Unawares” sounds almost mark who, after three hours of that all human life is sacred.” providential. Two decades ago, he work, had installed it on the 24- Schmalz has long worked on donated to a Jesuit campaign against foot long by 16-foot wide sand box Scripture-based sculptures. He is AIDS in central Africa. He got a thank- where it will remain on display perhaps best known for his “Homeless you note from a Father Michael Czerny, through April 8, 2021. Jesus,” showing the Son of God lying on detailing the work. The priest later David Prada, director of the a bench. It’s part of a series on Matthew looked him up in Canada, and they archdiocesan Office of Building 25, showing Jesus enduring hunger, became friends. and Property, and Florida Lemark vice president Eduardo Rodriguez, Workers from Florida Lemark remove the cage used to transport the sickness, poverty and other plights. Now a cardinal, Cardinal Czerny supervised the installation. sculpture “Angels Unawares” while installing it in Miami’s Bayfront Taking the form of a boat, “Angels serves under-secretary for the new The sculpture, a full-size replica Park, where it will be on display through April 8, 2021. The installation Unawares” conveys both movement migrants and refugees section at the of the one blessed by Pope Francis took place Feb. 9, 2021. (PHOTOS BY TOM TRACY | FC) and solidity. The 140 passengers — Vatican, reporting directly to Pope in 2019 and installed in St. Peter’s Jewish, Muslim, Cherokee, African, Irish Francis. He asked Schmalz to make a Square, travels in a specially built Catholic and others — are crowded sculpture on the topic of refugees and steel cage which Prada described into a boat, showing a range of emo- immigrants — and the boat motif as “a work of art in itself.” tions: grief, fatigue, anticipation. Above sprang to mind. The cage weighs 500 pounds them, in their midst, stretch angel wings, He made a small version, five feet and is connected to the sculpture’s suggesting that their lives are sacred. long, for Pope Francis to consider. The base by 20 bolts. “All the load is It’s a literal interpretation of Hebrews pope approved it, and Schmalz set to transferred through the cage,” 13:2: “Do not neglect to show hospital- work on the full-size piece. It helped to Prada said, allowing the sculpture ity to strangers, for thereby some have get personal feedback from the Holy Fa- to be transported and moved with- entertained angels unawares.” ther after the dedication of the Vatican out damaging the artwork, which As Schmalz describes it, the design sculpture. As the two walked around it, weighs 9,000 pounds. of “Angels Unawares” is meant to ac- Francis looked at him, smiled and placed But before it’s freed from its complish several goals. both hands on his heart. cage, a worker must literally One is to highlight migrants and Although Schmalz is enjoying the climb inside the sculpture, ac- cessing it from underneath, to in- refugees, whom he believes are invisible response to “Angels Unawares,” he stall the wings, which are stored to most people. “If we can take these isn’t resting. He’s already deep into his separately and weigh 50 pounds people and put them on a pedestal, next project: another massive sculpture, each. That was accomplished by and put a message on the pedestal that showing a woman opening a dungeon a technique known as cribbing: we have to love one another and care hatch for others to escape. Calling it creating a temporary platform to Detail of the faces on the The “Angels Unawares” sculpture for the stranger, we can do something “Let the Oppressed Go Free,” he’s support the sculpture a few feet sculpture “Angels Unawares,” sits in a corner of Bayfront Park, wonderful.” making the sculpture a tribute to St. off the ground. framed by Miami’s Freedom surrounded by the tall buildings Another goal is to place people next Josephine Bakhita, a 19th century Suda- Afterwards, the cage and sculp- Tower in the background. of downtown Miami. to others who are unlike them. Schmalz nese woman who is the patron saint of ture were placed on the bed of packed the 140 figures so close, they’re human trafficking. n sand, prepared a day earlier by and Carolyn Johnson of Canon- cal Catholic and patron of the arts, Florida Lemark. Prada used a mea- bury Homes, Inc. and Kensington Carlos de la Cruz, Sr., made it pos- suring tape to ensure the sculpture Homes Preservation, shared their sible for the archdiocese to host was placed exactly in the middle of insights and experience in receiv- the sculpture. the box, with the boat’s prow at a ing and installing the sculpture in Archbishop Thomas Wenski Kameelah Memorials 45-degree angle, facing north on Atlanta. blessed the artwork Feb. 10, 2021 The Urn Store Biscayne Boulevard. Deborah Brown of The Catholic before a small group of civic offi- “My motto is measure twice, cut University of America in Wash- cials, including Miami City Com- once,” said Prada. ington, D.C. — where “Angels missioner Joe Carrollo and other After removing the 20 bolts, the Unawares” will find a permanent members of the Bayfront Park workers steadied the steel cage as home once its tour of North Amer- Management Trust, who gave the crane slowly lifted it up and ican cities concludes — also was permission for the archdiocese to away from the artwork. instrumental in connecting ev- place the sculpture at that loca- “One of the nicest things about eryone, including the sculpture’s tion. this was the teamwork that built creator, Canadian artist Timothy “This was his vision to have it
Kameelah Memorials is an urn business specializing For quality in delivery up among the cities that are host- Schmalz. there, to give it high visibility,” said in cremation products designed to reflect and honor and ethics in our service, ing it,” said Prada, referring to the “And we’re going to do the same Prada of the archbishop. the life of your beloved departed. We guarantee our Kameelah Memorials help the Archdiocese of Miami for the next town,” said Prada, re- As the archbishop noted on an
products and replacements on all non-engraved is your destination for 14147-0219 received from the Archdiocese ferring to the sculpture’s next stop, Instagram post and at the dedica- selections. The quality of our products is consistent memorialization. with the standards within the industry. of Atlanta, where the statue had Minneapolis, Minnesota. Before tion: “Miami is the South’s Ellis Is- been on display throughout Janu- Atlanta, the sculpture had visited land and a fitting place to host this www.kameelahmemorials.com ary. Boston, Brooklyn and Catholic U. sculpture that honors migrants Via several Zoom calls, Neil A generous donation from a lo- and refugees.” n 7 QUICK READS Facebook @FloridaCatholic Feb. 19-25, 2021
NATION secular organizations to help with of-occupancy limits on worship at- COVID-19 and economic recov- tendance. Last year, New York Gov. POPE TO VISIT IRAQ ery and confront systemic racism. Andrew Cuomo placed restrictions Cupich: Deaths The office was established 20 years on indoor worship services in ar- ago by President George W. Bush, eas with high COVID-19 rates to 10 of mother, four who said the government can and people in the most affected areas daughters in fire should welcome religious and com- and 25 people in slightly less af- munity organizations as partners. fected areas. In her five-page order, have touched The Obama administration con- U.S. District Judge Kiyo Matsu- tinued this initiative with work on moto reversed a decision she made ‘many hearts’ preventing foreclosures, increas- last October when she rejected CHICAGO | When Cardinal ing the amount of summer meals the lawsuit filed by Jewish lead- Blase J. Cupich of Chicago presided served to children in need and ers who claimed the congregation at the funeral Mass for five mem- helping communities with disaster size limits were unconstitutional. bers of the Espinosa family at the recovery. Under the Trump admin- In her ruling, she cited a Feb. 5 Su- Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in istration, this office was vacant. preme Court decision that ordered the Chicago suburb of Des Plaines President Donald Trump instead California to allow indoor worship Feb. 10, gestures of comfort came created the Center for Faith and services to resume during the pan- from as far away as the Vatican. Opportunity Initiatives, led by the demic. Eric Rassbach, vice presi- Pope Francis sent rosaries for fam- Pentecostal preacher Paula White. dent and senior counsel at Becket, ily members who were mourning The group, according to its website, a religious liberty law firm, said in a the loss of Nancy Cithlaly Zamudio, was a liaison for grassroots organi- Feb. 9 statement that Matsumoto’s 25, and her daughters, Renata P. Es- zations, faith-based groups and the order is “good news for the syna- pinosa, 6; Genesis Espinosa, 5; Al- Department of Health and Human gogues, churches and other houses The ruins of Ur, Iraq, with the reconstructed Ziggurate in the lison Espinosa, 3; and Grace Espi- Services with a focus on “religious of worship of New York.” background, are pictured in 1998. During his March 5-8 trip to Iraq, nosa, 2. All of them died in a house liberty in all HHS programs and Pope Francis will visit Ur, the birthplace of Abraham, recognized as fire Jan. 27 in Des Plaines. The chil- initiatives.” Melissa Rogers, who the patriarch of faith in one God by Jews, Christians and Muslims. dren’s father was at work when the was executive director of the Office WORLD (NORBERT SCHILLER | CNS) 104-year-old wood-frame duplex of Faith-Based and Neighborhood in Des Plaines caught fire, neigh- Partnerships during President Myanmar nuns bors told media outlets. Investiga- Barack Obama’s second term, from ing, as well as no longer allowing to bring home bread, but to bring it tors believe the fire was started by 2013 to 2017, will again take the show solidarity trials “in absentia.” The changes, home with the dignity of work,” he a space heater. Cardinal Cupich helm as its executive director along announced by the Vatican Feb. said. “And these men bore witness said the pope gave him the rosaries with her role as senior director for with anti-coup 16, were made because the field of to Jesus Christ. Their throats slit when the cardinal was in Rome two faith and public policy in the White protesters criminal justice requires “constant by the brutality of ISIS, they died weeks ago. “He said he would like House Domestic Policy Council. attention” so that norms and proce- saying: ‘Lord Jesus!’ -- confessing me to make sure that the family re- Josh Dickson, White House senior YANGON, Myanmar | Catholic dures can keep up with changing the name of Jesus.” The martyred ceives them as a way of showing his adviser for public engagement, will nuns, priests and laypeople have needs, particularly when old solu- Christians -- 20 Egyptian Copts closeness to you,” Cardinal Cupich serve as the office’s deputy director. joined protests in Buddhist-ma- tions are now “outdated,” the papal and one Christian migrant from said. “He would ask that you pray jority Myanmar following the Feb. document said. “For these reasons, Ghana -- were beheaded in 2015 on for him, because he also takes on Judge stops 1 coup. Ucanews.com reported following the process of an ongo- a Libyan beach by the Islamic State himself the sufferings of the world, that hundreds of Catholics, includ- ing update dictated by changing group, which later released a grue- your suffering.” capacity limits on ing dozens of nuns, marched on awareness” over time, the pope ap- some video that sparked worldwide NY synagogues the streets of Yangon Feb. 14 and proved changes to the Vatican City outrage. Biden reestablishes recited prayers and the rosary. State penal code with several new faith-based BROOKLYN, N.Y. | A federal Youths held placards reading “Free articles. One allows for a sentence Anticipated papal judge in Brooklyn Feb. 9 perma- Aung San Suu Kyi” and “We sup- reduction of 45 to 120 days for each visit regarded partnership office nently blocked New York state ca- port CDM,” the latter referring to year already served by the convict- pacity limits for worship at Ortho- the civil disobedience movement. ed person when he or she “has be- as ‘miracle’ WASHINGTON | President Joe dox synagogues in areas with high Nuns from various congregations haved in such a way as to presume Biden signed an executive order rates of COVID-19 infections. The have shown solidarity with the repentance and has successfully BEIRUT | The largest Syriac Feb. 14 reestablishing the White permanent injunction applies to all people of Myanmar by march- taken part in a treatment and reha- Catholic congregation in the world House Office of Faith-Based and of the houses of worship in these ar- ing on the streets, saying prayers bilitation program.” is preparing physically and spiri- Neighborhood Partnerships as a eas in the state and is one of the first at convents and offering snacks tually for Pope Francis’ upcom- means to work with religious and in the country to stop percentage- to protesters in Yangon and else- ing visit to Qaraqosh, Iraq. “Words where, ucanews.com reported. VATICAN can’t describe how happy we are,” In the Christian stronghold of Syriac Catholic Father Roni Mome- Kachin state, nuns stood at the en- Anniversary ka told Catholic News Service. “The trance of a church compound while people feel that it’s a miracle that
14069-0219 holding placards that read “No to of Christians the pope will come here,” Father dictatorship” and “Listen to the Momeka said. “They are happy not voices of people,” while protesters martyred in Libya only for the visit, but they are happy swarmed the streets of Myitkyina, VATICAN CITY | Marking the that Pope Francis is thinking about the state’s capital city, Feb. 14. Na- sixth anniversary of the beheading those people who are in pain, those tionwide anti-coup protests have of 21 Christians on a beach in Libya, people who lost everything, but intensified for nine consecutive Pope Francis said they gave witness who never lost their faith.” Father ® days in Yangon, Mandalay, villages to Christ through their martyrdom. Momeka said Qaraqosh is bustling Put on your TV•Ears and the ethnic regions of Kachin In a video message released Feb. 15 with activity, the streets already and hear TV with unmatched clarity and Chin states, ucanews.com re- for an online event commemorat- awash with papal flags and ban- ported. ing the “Day of Contemporary Mar- ners in preparation for the pope’s TV•Ears Original™ tyrs,” the pope said that while their March 7 visit, part of his March 5-8 $129.95 Vatican City law brutal murder was a tragedy, it was visit to Iraq. Parishioners have been abolishes ‘in also true that “from their simplic- busy cleaning and painting the in- NEW SPECIAL OFFER ity, from their simple but consistent terior of the Church of the Immacu- 95 absentia’ trials, faith, they received the greatest gift late Conception, transforming the NOW $59+s&h a Christian can receive: bearing blackened interior to its original Use promo code MB59 VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis witness to Jesus Christ to the point radiance for the pope’s visit. The 30-day risk free trial approved a number of changes to of giving their life. They had gone church, built by parishioners in the Vatican City State’s penal code and to work abroad to support their 1930s, had seating for 2,200 people. Call 1-866-212-7313 criminal justice proceedings, in- families: ordinary men, fathers of It was vandalized, desecrated and cluding the possibilities of reduced families, men with the desire to burned by the Islamic State. Pope Voice Clarifying TV Headset M-F 6am—6pm PST sentences, rehabilitation programs have children; men with the dig- Francis is scheduled to pray the and community service sentenc- nity of workers, who not only seek Angelus there. 8 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Facebook @FloridaCatholic Feb. 19-25, 2021 Ashes mark beginning, not end, of new life, says theologian CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE ASK IF ONES LIFE IS CENTERED ON GOD
VATICAN CITY | Ash Wednesday VATICAN CITY | Lent is a time to “Lent is a journey of return to God,” and Lent are a time to recall that reconsider the path one is taking in life especially when most people live each new life emerges from the ashes and to finally answer God’s invitation day ignoring or delaying their response and that spring blossoms from the to return to him with one’s whole heart, to God’s invitation to pray and do bleakness of winter, said a noted Pope Francis said. something for others. Italian theologian. And when people fast from me- “Lent is not just about the little sac- “It is a time to reconsider the path dia overload, as Pope Francis has rifices we make, but about discerning we are taking, to find the route that asked people to do for Lent, they where our hearts are directed,” he said, leads us home and to rediscover our should be directing their attention “toward God or toward myself?” profound relationship with God, on to the real people around them, Ser- The pope’s remarks came in his whom everything depends,” he said. vite Father Ermes Ronchi told Vati- homily at Mass Feb. 17 for Ash “The journey of Lent is an exodus can News Feb. 16. Wednesday, which included the bless- from slavery to freedom,” he said, Instead of being “glued” to the ing and distribution ashes, marking noting the easy temptations along that internet, “what if we were to look the beginning of Lent for Latin-rite journey, including yearning for the past, people in the eye the way we look at Catholics. or hindered by “unhealthy attachments, our phones, 50 times a day, looking Pope Francis sprinkles ashes on the head of a priest during Ash Because of ongoing measures in held back by the seductive snares of at them with the same attentiveness Wednesday Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Feb. 17, 2021. place to reduce the spread of the coro- our sins, by the false security of money and intensity, how many things (GUGLIELMO MANGIAPANE, REUTERs | CNS) navirus, the Mass and distribution of and appearances, by the paralysis of would change? How many things ashes took place with a congregation our discontents. To embark on this would we discover?” he asked. the spring. nothing better than to be “nothing” of little more than 100 people at the journey, we have to unmask these The Italian priest, who was cho- “Ashes are what is left when before God, he said. Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s Basilica. illusions.” sen by Pope Francis to lead his an- nothing is left, it is the bare mini- “Do not be afraid of being fragile Pope Francis did not do the The way back to God, he said, starts nual Lenten retreat in 2016, talked mum, the almost-nothing. And it but think of Lent as the transforma- with understanding, like the prodigal with Vatican News about how to is from here that one can and must tion from ashes to light, from what traditional walk from the Church of St. Anselm to the Basilica of Santa Sabina son, how “we have ended up with understand Lent and Ash Wednes- begin again,” he said, rather than is leftover to fullness,” he said. “I see empty hands and an unhappy heart” day during a global pandemic, par- stopping in despair. it as a time that is not penitential, on Rome’s Aventine Hill to prevent after squandering God’s gifts “on paltry ticularly when many people have Ashes smudged or sprinkled on but alive, not a time of mortifica- large crowds of people from gathering things, and then with seeking God’s already lost so much. the faithful are then “not so much tion, but as revitalization. It is the along the route. forgiveness through confession. He recalled the natural cycles about ‘remember you must die,’ but time the seed is in the earth.” In St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope in farm life when wood ashes from ‘remember you must be simple and For those who have suffered received ashes on his head from The pope again reminded confes- heating homes over a long winter fruitful.’” great loss during the pandemic, Cardinal Angelo Comastri, archpriest of sors that they must be like the father in would be returned to the soil to pro- The Bible teaches “the economy Father Ronchi said that strain and the basilica, and he distributed ashes the story of the prodigal son and not vide it with important nutrients for of small things” in which there is struggle also leads to new fruit, like to about three dozen cardinals, as well use “a whip,” but open their arms in a a gardener who prunes trees “not as the priests and deacons assisting welcoming embrace. for penance,” but “to bring them him at the Mass. In his homily, the pope “The journey is not based on our back to the essential” and stimulate said one must bow to receive ashes own strength. Heartfelt conversion, new growth and energy. sprinkled on the crown of the head, with the deeds and practices that LEWIS “We are living in a time that can which reflects the “humble descent” express it, is possible only if it begins & COMPANY bring us back to the essential, redis- one makes in reflecting on one’s life, with the primacy of God’s work” and covering what is permanent in our sins and relationship with God. through his grace, the pope said. n life and what is fleeting. Therefore, this moment is a gift to be more fruitful, not to castigate.” take away: charity, tenderness and me is a sign of charity,” he added. Learn Rosary Making No matter what measures or re- forgiveness, he said. “Jesus came to bring a revolution of Contact us for a catalog and introductory offer. strictions may be in place due to the “It’s true that this Easter will be tenderness and forgiveness without 12800-0219 pandemic, people still have all the marked by fragility, many cruci- bounds. These are the two things rosaryparts.com • 1-800-342-2400 tools they need, which no virus can fixes, but what is being asked of that build up universal fraternity.” n
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CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE miliation, but God wants to open plause to priests who model God’s our heart.” closeness, tenderness and compas- VATICAN CITY | The Gospel “Jesus announces to us that sion in the way they administer the story of Jesus healing the leper il- God is not an idea or an abstract sacrament of reconciliation. lustrates how nothing will stop God doctrine, but God is the one who Such priests, he said, are able to from tenderly and compassionately ‘contaminates’ himself with our draw people back to God — “people drawing close to people who want human woundedness and is not who feel that they are nothing, who to be healed and saved, Pope Fran- afraid to come into contact with feel they are laid low because of cis said. our wounds,” the pope said Feb. 14, their sins — with tenderness, with “Each one of us can experience commenting on the day’s Gospel compassion, good confessors who wounds, failure, suffering, selfish- reading before praying the Angelus do not have a whip in their hands, ness that make us close ourselves with visitors in St. Peter’s Square. but just welcome, listen and say that off from God and others,” the pope On a brilliantly sunny, but frigid God is good, and that God always said. “Sin closes us in on ourselves day, Pope Francis asked people in forgives, that God does not get tired because of shame, because of hu- the square to give a round of ap- of forgiving.” In fact, the pope said, the story in Mark’s Gospel (Mk 1:40-45) of Jesus Call now to get your ADT security healing the leper depicts both Jesus system starting at $19.99/mo.* and the man with Hansen’s disease † breaking the law. 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You may be required to pay additional charges to purchase equipment required to utilize the interactive service features you desire. vents us from being in relationship sus reveals that God, who is not in- Colombia, he said, is “welcom- General: Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verifi cation. System remains property of ADT. Local permit fees may be required. Prices and offers subject to change and may vary by market. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Satisfactory credit required. A security deposit may be required. Simulated screen images and photos are for illustrative purposes only. with him, with others and with our- different, does not keep himself at ing, protecting and integrating” the ©2021 ADT LLC dba ADT Security Services. All rights reserved. ADT, the ADT logo, 800.ADT.ASAP and the product/service names listed in this document are marks and/or registered marks. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. Third-party marks are the property of their respective owners. License information available at www.ADT.com or by calling 800.ADT.ASAP. CA ACO7155, 974443, PPO120288; FL EF0001121; LA F1639, F1640, F1643, F1654, F1655; MA 172C; NC selves,” the pope said. a ‘safe distance.’ Rather, he draws Venezuelan migrants. “It is not a su- Licensed by the Alarm Systems Licensing Board of the State of North Carolina, 7535P2, 7561P2, 7562P10, 7563P7, 7565P1, 7566P9, 7564P4; NY 12000305615; PA 090797 DF-CD-NP-Q121 Jesus did not stop at saying some- near out of compassion and touches per wealthy, developed country that our life to heal it with tenderness. It is doing this — no, this is being done is God’s style: nearness, compas- by a country that has many prob- sion and tenderness.” lems in development, poverty and After reciting the Angelus prayer, peace,” he said. Even so, “they have Pope Francis noted it was Valen- had the courage to look at those mi- tine’s Day and offered his prayers grants and to create this status.” n
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Mike Carlock | 407-373-0077 14070-0219 [email protected] 1-888-970-0394 14308-0219 10 SUNDAY WORD and SCRIPTURE Facebook @FloridaCatholic Feb. 19-25, 2021 Reestablish your SCRIPTURE readings Thursday, Feb. 18 Monday, Feb. 22 Mt 7:7-12 Dt 30:15-20; Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and Feast of the Chair of St. Peter, Friday, Feb. 26 covenant with God 6; Lk 9:22-25 Apostle Ez 18:21-28; Ps 130:1-2, 3-4, Sunday, Feb. 21 very needs that have marked per- 1 Pt 5:1-4; Ps 23:1-3a, 4, 5, 6; Friday, Feb. 19 5-7a, 7bc-8; Mt 5:20-26 First Sunday of Lent haps the strangest year in memory. Mt 16:13-19 This time allows us to notice more Is 58:1-9a; Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 18- Gn 9:8-15; Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9; 1 Saturday, Feb. 27 the ways in which he has been with 19; Mt 9:14-15 Tuesday, Feb. 23 Pt 3:18-22; Mk 1:12-15 us in every moment of this year, Memorial of St. Gregory of Is 55:10-11; Ps 34:4-5, 6-7, 16- perhaps especially in those mo- Saturday, Feb. 20 Narek, abbot and doctor of This Sunday’s first reading (Gen- ments when we felt most alone or 17, 18-19; Mt 6:7-15 esis 9:8–15) describes the Lord’s afraid. The Father has never left our Is 58:9b-14; Ps 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; the Church covenant with Noah and his sons, side, as He did not leave His Divine Lk 5:27-32 Wednesday, Feb. 24 Wis 7:7-10, 15-16; Ps 37:3-4, after the flood. The sign of this cov- Son’s side for those forty days. How Jon 3:1-10; Ps 51:3-4, 12-13, 5-6, 30-31; Mt 7:21-29 enant, a sign that struggles to re- powerful it could be to recognize Sunday, Feb. 21 cover its Scriptural meaning today, this more deeply this Lent. 18-19; Lk 11:29-32 Sunday, Feb. 28 is the rainbow. I mentioned the rainbow earlier, First Sunday of Lent Lent is about reestablishing our the sign of the first covenant be- Gn 9:8-15; Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9; 1 Thursday, Feb. 25 Second Sunday of Lent covenant with God, a covenant that tween God and humanity. Later I was forged by the Cross mentioned Baptism, the sign Pt 3:18-22; Mk 1:12-15 Est C:12, 14-16, 23-25; Ps Gn 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18; Ps of Christ. As St. Peter of the final and definitive 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8; 116:10, 15, 16-17, 18-19; Rom says in our second read- covenant of the Cross. That 8:31b-34; Mk 9:2-10 ing, “Christ suffered for covenant then finds its most sins once, the righteous perfect expression in the for the sake of the un- Eucharist, where we enter righteous, that he might into Communion with the lead you to God. Put to Body and Blood of Christ. The ‘Quality of Life’ Error death in the flesh, he was If during Lent we can open During “serious illness con- making doctors into killers.” or meaning in their lives to merit brought to life in the Spir- our eyes to the saving ac- versations,” some doctors will ply Laura countered: “John, I think receiving a particular treatment. it” (3:18). This is the new SUNDAY tion of God, perhaps we will their patients with this question: a lot of people who are for this Their humanity is violated if they and definitive covenant WORD be able to open our eyes and “What is your minimally accept- type of assisted suicide would say, are treated according to their func- between God and human see how all of His promises able quality of life?” ‘Look, what about the quality of tionality or quality of life, rather beings. This covenant is Father are still being fulfilled, even Behind the question can be the life?’ ‘Look, you know, people suf- than according to their personal made effective for each Alfredo in the midst of a world that implication that if pa- fering like you — what dignity. of us in the waters of Bap- Hernández struggles to see this amaz- tients are experiencing kind of quality of life do Of course everyone has a certain tism, a prefigurement of ing truth. a low quality of life, their you really have?’ What do natural fear or hesitation when which St. Peter saw in the The next time you look medical treatments can you say to those people?” it comes to living in a disabled or waters of the great flood (cf. 3:21). up at the sky after a rain shower, I be discontinued because His reply was as bril- compromised state. We may also Why do we need to reestablish a invite you to recognize in the rain- their life has become “no liant as it was simple: be afraid of “being a burden to oth- covenant with God? Because in sin bow something beyond a natural longer worth living.” “I have a marvelous ers.” When we acknowledge that we have offended against that most phenomenon or a modern political This can even become quality of life! Right now the gift of life has “absolute value,” important relationship. We have symbol. Look at the sky with eyes of a shorthand to justify ac- I am totally dependent. I that doesn’t mean we must do ab- not loved with the love with which faith and see what Noah saw. See, tions like physician-assist- can do nothing for myself. solutely everything scientifically Jesus loved us on the Cross. We have through physical reality, the action ed suicide or euthanasia. MAKING I’m effectively paralyzed. available to maintain it, but it does failed in our relationships with God of God, the sign of God’s unending Making quality of life as- SENSE OF But I have a family. I have mean that we should exercise good and our brothers and sisters. We love for us. sessments about ourselves BIOETHICS friends. I have my church stewardship over it, making use of have not always lived with what If we are capable of seeing the or others can lead us to Father Tad community. I have loving ordinary means of treatment and St. Peter describes as a “clear con- presence of God in the rainbow, devalue the gift of human support all around me. receiving supportive care, even in science” (3:22). In the penitential perhaps we will be able to see it life by insisting it must Pacholczyk I don’t understand how the face of imminent decline. practices of Lent (prayer, fasting, when we enter church, especially if have a certain amount of anyone could deny that I It also means the decision to re- almsgiving), we open our hearts to we are just returning after not being “quality” before it can be deemed have a very high quality of life, and fuse or stop a particular medical receive the love that is God, the love able to go to Mass for a long time. “meaningful” or “worthwhile.” it gets me to understand and be treatment should be based on the God calls us to live. While we may not be able to bless The clearest rebuttal of the compassionate toward those with- judgment that the treatment itself The image of entering the desert ourselves with Holy Water in most “Quality of Life” error I’ve come out the support that I have. Rather is extraordinary, that is to say, it of- with Jesus, of actually being “driv- churches, the very act of entering across was from a 64-year-old than giving them the temptation to fers minimal benefit or is unduly en” into the desert by the Spirit (cf. the church building is a reminder retired Boeing computer pro- kill themselves, we should be try- burdensome. It should not be be- Mark 1:12) may seem a bit harsh this that we belong to the Body of Christ, grammer named John Peyton ing to figure out how to help them cause we conclude that someone’s year. It may seem as if we’ve been who died for us and rose again, that (1945-2009). He lived in Kent, to have the quality of life I enjoy.” life itself lacks value and needs to spending a whole year in the desert we might enter into His Body by Washington, and had an unusu- Peyton’s answer cuts to the end. already. Entering more deeply into Baptism and share in His Body and ally aggressive form of amyo- heart of the matter: if anyone who Individuals struggling with the reality of our current moment Blood in the Eucharist. trophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is sick or dying is facing a low qual- grave ailments, even though they with Jesus does not mean to suffer With the eyes of faith we can commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s ity of life, we should take steps to may be very compromised and more, though. It means to seek to see the constant action of God, his disease. The disease made him raise and improve it. His story also unable to act as their own decision join ourselves and all that is hap- permanent faithfulness to his cov- totally dependent on Patricia, his reminds us how the one-sided makers, remain persons of great pening in our lives and in our world enant with us. When we recognize wife of 40 years. She dressed him, category of “quality of life” can moral worth. They contribute to more intimately with Jesus, precise- and trust in God’s faithfulness, fed him, and regularly shifted his easily tempt us in the wrong direc- the common good simply by being, ly as he faces his temptations. As we nothing can make us afraid, no body position in the living room tion when it comes to basic moral rather than by doing or choosing. enter the desert with Jesus, we can temptation can draw us away from recliner where he spent his declin- duties owed to our loved ones in Moreover, they continually call give space to God to talk to us, in the Him; we can recommit ourselves ing months. compromised states. Instead of each of us to a higher and more to living out this covenant in faith- As Peyton’s once-strong voice making quality of life judgments beautiful standard of full accep- fulness. The rainbow is a sign that gradually began to fade away, he about people, we should be mak- tance, loving support and authen- God never abandons us. The water continued to use it publicly to op- ing “quality of treatment” judg- tic care, even and especially in the of Baptism and the Bread and Wine pose and lobby against Initiative ments for those who are ailing and midst of very challenging medical CLASSIFIED of the Eucharist are signs of the love 1000, the assisted suicide initiative vulnerable, and perhaps “quality of circumstances. They raise the bar by which He has saved us in His in Washington. help” judgments against ourselves. for us and we should respond by BURIAL PLOTS Son. May we open our eyes to see When he was interviewed by As such, our focus should be on elevating their quality of life. 2 BURIAL PLOTS, SIDE BY SIDE, OR- the truth and thus be able to live it. n Laura Ingraham of Fox News, he the benefits and burdens of a pro- LANDO - Woodlawn Memorial Cemetery said, “I’m one of those people who posed medical intervention rather Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. (Gotha), closed Catholic section, $16,000 Father Alfredo Hernandez is Rector/ is somewhat of a target of the ini- than on trying to impose our own serves as the Director of Education for the pair (valued at $18,000+). Call President of St. Vincent de Paul Re- tiative and I don’t know how we conclusion that certain individu- at The National Catholic Bioethics 850-445-5458. Please leave a message. gional Seminary in Boyton Beach. as a society could really consider als no longer have enough value Center in Philadelphia.