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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DIOCESE OF VICTORIA IN TEXAS VOL. 33,34, NO. 1210 www.victoriadiocese.org FEBRUARYAPRIL 2021 2020 Teachers WALKING FOR UNBORN LIVES JANET JONES celebrate The Catholic Lighthouse VICTORIA -- Laura Reyes, heavy with her fourth boy child (expected in about five weeks), told a crowd of hundreds Jan. 28 about her child in heaven. milestones She was the featured speaker at the 34th annual Candlelight March JANET JONES for Life in Victoria. The marchers gathered at DeLeon Plaza and prayed The Catholic Lighthouse the rosary in a procession that ended on the steps of Our Lady of Sorrows Gwen Hall and Our Lady of church where she spoke. Victory School literally grew up “Why on earth would I want you to know my business?” Reyes said. together. She was a student there “Because God deserves all the glory. … I’d be a fool not to share the miracle when the school was still adding He has done in my life.” grades. She was in the school’s What she shared was a heart-breaking story about herself as a teenager first seventh-grade class and was who took up with a man in his mid-20s – someone who took advantage of in the first class of eighth-graders her innocence, in fact took her innocence, and got her pregnant. Her family to graduate. decided that abortion was the best solution to get her young life back on In 1971, after finishing col- track, she said, but it was just the opposite. lege, Sister Emilie Eilers, IWBS, She described the procedure in detail and the images that haunted her. “It was principal and offered her a was the most horrible and painful experience of my life.” Her life continued job at OLV teaching Texas his- Several hundred people gathered at DeLeon Plaza to participate to unravel after that. She called it “living in the dumpster of sin.” tory. And the rest is OLV history in the Candlelight March for Life on Jan. 28. As they proceeded Reyes was raised in Columbia where all of those events took place. as she helped shape the school in to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, they prayed the rosary together for the protection of the unborn and an end to abortion. See Walking for unborn lives, pg. 7 See Teacher celebrate, pg. 9 Local podcasts can bring edification to a busy day JANET JONES The Catholic Lighthouse “Everybody could use a little Father Gary in their marriage,” according to Justin Reyes, director of Family Evangelization for the Diocese of Victoria. The “Marriage Moment” is a podcast that features pearls of wis- dom from the Father Gary Janak, a licensed therapist with a passion for marriage ministry. It is one of the newest offerings from the Office of Family Evangelization. Reyes rolled out that along with other podcasts recently to help feed the

See Local podcasts, pg. 16 The Very Rev. Gary Janak, a licensed therapist with a passion for marriage ministry, records a “Marriage Moment” podcast. The Catholic Lighthouse Page 2 — February 2021 DIOCESE Religious orders give light to path we are all called to follow Dear Brothers and Sisters, ing to follow this path, to live more fully the St. John Paul II dedicated the Feast of A Shepherd’s evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity and the Presentation of the Lord (Feb. 2) as the obedience. As the beautiful tradition of our World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life. church teaches, we are all called to be holy, On this day, 40 days after Christmas, we Message spirit-filled saints. celebrate the revealing of the baby Jesus as Whatever our state in life, we also are a “Light” to all the nations, and the joyous preparing to enter into our annual season of testimony of Simeon and Anna that God is By Bishop Brendan Cahill prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Lent begins faithful to His people. on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17. It may be a good In Victoria, we will be celebrating a spe- reflection to ask ourselves how we practice cial Mass at the cathedral on Feb. 7, thanking God’s people. One thing I’ve learned over sels, in their great variety, to every disciple. these virtues of poverty, chastity and obedi- God for the gift of consecrated women who the years is that if you ask a member of a The perfection of charity to which all the ence in our own lives, and teach about them serve in our diocese. Members of the follow- religious order about their charism or their faithful are called, entails for those who in our families. ing religious orders offer their testimony to founder or foundress, you should be prepared freely follow the call to consecrated life the This Year of the Family has been a special the “Light” every day: Incarnate Word and for a long answer! obligation of practicing chastity in celibacy blessing in our diocese. May we continue to Blessed Sacrament, Missionary Catechists of While each order is distinct in its foun- for the sake of the Kingdom, poverty and obe- focus on our shared prayer, our time at meals, the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary, Sisters dational gift, the members of each religious dience. It is the profession of these counsels and our time playing together; and may all of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Vietnamese order, both men and women, offer their within a permanent state of life recognized we do bring us closer to the merciful love of Dominican Sisters, and the Carmelites of personal testimony through vows to live the by the Church, that characterizes the life Jesus, the “Light” to the nations. Mary Ever Virgin. evangelical virtues. The Catechism quotes consecrated to God.” (CCC 915). May God bless you and your families Each of these religious orders has a the teaching of the Second Vatican Council The “Light” that we honor in the con- with the gifts of peace and joy; let’s keep unique history in its foundation and service, about religious life: secrated women in our diocese hopefully each other in prayer, and a specific “charism” (gift) of service to “Christ proposes the evangelical coun- inspires each of us, a disciple of Jesus seek- +Brendan Battle with COVID-19 magnifies human connection

BISHOP MICHAEL SIS raged on for days. I don’t recall ever in my who feel fear and anxiety. to join my illness to his experience on the Special to the Lighthouse life having a fever that lasted so long. I had a It is hard to be productive when you are Cross, so I could share in some small way The coronavirus had been spreading in strong desire to avoid hospitalization if at all in quarantine, especially if you are battling in his redemptive suffering for the good of our area for eight months. I was grateful possible, since illness. There are several projects I was humanity. to God for the gift of health, allowing me hospital re- working on that have been delayed. This is In the midst of my coronavirus experi- to continue serving our people in a time of sources here frustrating, because I like to get things done. ence, on a day when I was not feeling well at serious pandemic and social turmoil. Here in West Texas Nevertheless, it is a reminder that the core all, I was on a teleconference with a few old in San Angelo, we had long been planning are stretched of our value as human beings is not in our friends. One of them made a statement that a race relations forum, involving commu- so thin. I took productivity, but rather in the fact that we struck me as a profoundly Christian insight. nity leaders, government officials, univer- vitamins and are made in the image and likeness of God. She said, “Make sure to pray for us while sity spokespersons, and pastors of various medications Our “being” is ultimately more important you’re sick, because the prayers of those churches. I had great hopes for its potential like they were than our “doing.” who are suffering are especially powerful.” in confronting racism. Nevertheless, as the going out of I was sustained by the prayers of many of She inspired me to offer extra prayers of number of cases spiked, I decided to post- style. I made you, and I am very thankful for that. I also intercession during my illness for the needs pone the event. several new found much consolation in the prayer of the of people everywhere. The morning after the event would have fascinating Bishop Michael Sis rosary and meditation on the Psalms from Another source of Christian wisdom that taken place, I began to feel feverish at my discoveries the Daily Office. Since I have a chapel in helped me with my own case of COVID-19 office. I packed up my laptop and headed — like the my house, I celebrated the Mass every day, comes from the preaching of Pope Francis directly to the drive-through rapid test facil- fact that the unflavored Pedialyte tastes a which was the greatest source of grace. In in his Extraordinary Moment of Prayer in an ity. A few hours later, they contacted me with whole lot better than the flavored kind. I slept the Eucharist, I was able to pray in union empty St. Peter’s Square on March 27, 2020. the good news of a negative result, saying more than ever before, because the fever was with all of you and with the entire Mystical He said that, as the human race struggles I could now return to work. However, I did just wearing my body out. Body of Christ. with the coronavirus pandemic, we must not trust the result, because there was still no Going through day after day of ill- In the depths of my illness, with cough- remember the experience of his disciples explanation for my persistent fever. I kept a ness put me in touch with my own human ing, fever, and a tightness in my chest, and when Jesus calmed the violent storm on the self-quarantine just to be on the safe side. I weakness and vulnerability. It helped me to worried about possible lung complications, I Sea of Galilee in Mark 4:35-41. The waves looked for a PCR test and managed to find identify more closely with the vulnerability felt very close to Jesus. I recalled what I had were breaking over the boat, and it was tak- one at a local pharmacy. Two days later, the of others around the world, including those read years ago in various scholarly studies ing on water. Jesus was fast asleep in the pharmacy sent me the fateful email. Before who are sick, elderly, homeless, in prisons, that, as Jesus hung on the Cross, one of the stern, trusting in the Father. His disciples I opened it, I prayed, “Lord, may your holy hospitals, nursing homes, refugee camps, many things that he suffered was difficulty woke him in their fear and anxiety, crying will be done. Give me the grace to face and in hospice care. In my illness I felt more in breathing and a lack of sufficient oxygen. out, “Teacher, do you not care that we are whatever the result is.” The note from the deeply connected with the human family Jesus felt the pain and struggle of not being perishing?” Jesus immediately calmed the pharmacy included the word written in red everywhere. I embraced a sense of solidarity able to get enough air. Therefore, our CO- storm and reminded them to have faith. — positive. with those who are in pain, those who care VID-19 breathing difficulties can connect My struggle against the coronavirus for the sick, those grieving loss, and those us to Jesus. So, in my prayer, I asked Jesus See Battle with COVID-19, pg. 3 The Catholic Lighthouse DIOCESE Page 3 — February 2021 Bishop Cahill’s Schedule Battle with COVID-19 February 18 2 p.m. Blessing of Bethlehem 7 9 a.m. World Day for Consecrated Maternity Home magnifies human connection Life Mass, Cathedral of Our Lady 20 Mass with the Carmelites, of Victory, Victoria Meyersville Continued from pg. 2 2021 Men’s Gathering at the 8 2:30 p.m. Communities of Faith When Pope Francis reflected on this pain, no more loneliness, no more pain of Cathedral Center, Victoria meeting, virtual Gospel passage, he pointed out several things separation, and no more death. 5 p.m. Diocesan Liturgical 21 11:30 a.m. Mass for Scouts at the that help us in our struggle with the corona- Knowing that some of my co-workers in Commission meeting, Chancery Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory, virus: We are in the same boat together, and the diocesan offices also tested positive for Jesus is right here in the boat with us. He 9 9:30 a.m. Legion of Mary Praesidium Victoria COVID-19 around the same time that I did, does care about us. Nothing can separate us I am sorry if I may have unknowingly spread meeting, Cathedral Center 22 6 p.m. Diocesan School Advisory from the love of Christ. We need to trust in the virus to them before I was symptomatic, Council meeting, Chancery 11 1 p.m. Pension Board meeting, him. God turns to the good everything that and for any negative impact this has had on Chancery 23 10 a.m. Kenedy Executive happens to us, even the bad things. We are to their families. I pray for healing of all those embrace hardships as our way of embracing 12 8 a.m. School Mass and visit with St. Committee meeting, Corpus Christi impacted by this pandemic. As I look back, the Cross of Jesus. I am very relieved that we did not hold the Michael Catholic School, Weimar 25 Noon Lunch with IWBS Sisters, My case of COVID has led me to place race relations forum in San Angelo on that Incarnate Word Convent 13 Mass with the Carmelites, more trust in God. It has been an exercise in day when I unknowingly had the virus. Meyersville 26 8:15 a.m. School Mass and visit at faith. The letter to the Hebrews says, “Faith Otherwise, it could have become a real is the assurance of things hoped for, the 14 11 a.m. Confirmation Mass for St. Phillip the Apostle, El Campo super-spreader event. conviction of things unseen” (Heb 11:1). We I am deeply grateful to those who have Sacred Heart, Flatonia 27 Mass with the Carmelites, cannot see God, but he is here with us. He helped me in my battle with the coronavi- Meyersville 16 6:30 a.m. Relevant Radio interview will never abandon us. He might not spare rus. These include the ones who reached call in 28 11 a.m. Confirmation Mass for us from catching the virus, but he gives us out, those who dropped things off on my 9:30 a.m. Legion of Mary Praesidium Sacred Heart, Flatonia the grace to face it more serenely. front porch, those priests who covered the meeting, Cathedral Center The challenges of this disease also re- Masses I had been scheduled to celebrate, March Noon Mass with Missionary mind me of our Christian belief in eternal those people who called and emailed, and 2 1:30 p.m. Seminary Board meeting Catechists life. As human beings we are saddened by the many who offered prayers to God on my at St. Mary’s Seminary, Houston 6 p.m. Adult Confirmation at the the reality of death, but as Christians we are behalf. Those prayers have made a tremen- Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory, 5 3 p.m. Holy Hour, Chancery consoled by the promise of immortality. Our dous positive difference. I am also thankful Victoria only true home is in heaven. Ultimately, we for all those who work in medical facilities 5-7 TX State Council KofC Diocesan are citizens of heaven, and our hearts are rest- and pharmacies. They face the danger of Deputy Meeting, San Antonio less until they rest there with God. God has infection every day, yet they courageously created us with an inborn orientation toward fight on, helping others to heal. I am forever Please remember in prayer the priests of the Diocese of Victoria, who died during the month our home in heaven, and we will never be grateful to you all. of February: completely fulfilled until we get there, and We are in this boat together. We must row Rev. Daniel O’Brien 02/07/2008 see God face to face. In heaven, there will together and place our trust in God. Rev. Msgr. Casimir Jarzombek 02/15/2019 be no more tears, no more illness, no more Rev. Eugene Janson 02/17/2005 Rev. Brian Crookes 02/23/2003 Rev. Msgr. Vaclav J. Bily 02/23/1990 Rev. Msgr. Victor Schmidtzinsky 02/25/2005 In Memoriam Rev. Jerome Caponi 02/27/2009 Newly ordained Deacon Kotzur passes away “Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace.” Deacon Jerome married his high school sweetheart, Tammy, George Kotzur, of on June 21, 1980. They settled in Victoria, Publisher: The Catholic Victoria, entered Texas where they started their family. The Most Rev. Brendan J. Cahill In 1980, Jerome joined Bumgardner, Managing Editor: into eternal rest on Janet Jones Friday, January 8, Morrison, & Company, where he would work [email protected] 2021. Jerome was for the next 40 years as a Certified Public Ac- USPS-001015 (ISSN 0894-7740) Communications Assistant/Graphic Specialist: The Catholic Lighthouse is published monthly born on January 20, countant and Financial Advisor. He became a Regina Matus-Janak partner in 1988 and served as the managing at 1505 E. Mesquite Lane, Victoria, TX 77901. [email protected] 1958 in Karnes City, Subscription rates are: $7 per year within the diocese / $10 outside the diocese. Texas to the late Six- partner of his firm in his last years. Jerome E-mail local stories, photos or festival announcements to: [email protected] tus and Mary Ann was involved in and served as the president (361) 573-0828 / (361) 573-5725 FAX • www.victoriadiocese.org Kotzur. He gradu- Deacon of various of CPA boards. DEADLINE IS THE 15th OF THE PRECEDING MONTH ated from Stroman Jerome Kotzur Jerome was a proud Catholic, and re- Periodical postage paid at Victoria, TX and additional Entry Offices High School in mained involved in his church throughout POSTMASTER: Send address changes to P.O. Box 4070, Victoria, TX 77903 1976. After high school Jerome went on to his life. He served as a lector and Eucharistic The Catholic Lighthouse cannot be held liable, or in any way responsible for the content of any graduate from Texas A&M University in minister for many years. In the time his four advertisement appearing within these pages. All claims, offers, guarantees, statements, etc., made by College Station, Texas. Among his proudest children attended Our Lady of Victory School, The Catholic Lighthouse advertisers are solely the responsibility of the advertiser. Deceptive or misleading Jerome sat on the school board and the school advertising is never knowingly accepted. Complaints regarding advertising should be made directly to accomplishments was being a member of the the advertiser or the Better Business Bureau. Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 1980. Jerome See Newly ordained, Deacon Kotzur, pg. 5 The Catholic Lighthouse Page 4 — February 2021 DIOCESE

Seminary Endowment Fund

Seminary Endowment Fund (formerly known as Seminary Burses) is a permanent fund used for the education of future priests for the Diocese of Victoria. The goal of each burse is $15,000. The interest from this amount is applied yearly to the education of seminarians. The burses are in memory of or in honor of an individual priest or layperson, living or deceased. Publication of the burses will appear periodically when new contributions are received. Donation Categories: Lector - $.01 - $99.99; Acolyte – $100 - $499.99; Candidate – $500 - $1,499.99; Transitional Deacon – $1,500 - $2,499.99; Priest – $2,500 >. Men’s Registration Half Full January 20, 2021 • Josephat R. Janak Seminary Burse #2 Acolyte • Ascension of Our Lord Church, In memory of Brandon Janak by Moravia Seminary Burse Gene and Betty Migura Priest In memory of Willie J. Barborak and Wife, • Rev. Robert Knippenberg Seminary Albina Barborak, Irene Barborak, George Burse Barborak and Willie E. Barborak from Lector the Estate of Willie E. Barborak In honor of Rev. Robert Knippenberg by K.J.Z.T. Society No. 23, Hostyn • Rev. Msgr. John C. Bily Seminary Burse #2 • Rev. Timothy Kosler Seminary Burse Acolyte Lector In memory of Sir Knight Melroy I. Brandt In memory of Paul Veselka by: by St. Michael K of C Assembly #1527 Lorene Hengst of Flatonia, Schulenburg and Weimar Dorothy Pavlas In honor of Lucy Lednicky’s birthday Feb. Erline Janik 23, by Jesse and Nancy Lednicky In memory of Willy (Bill) Bohlmann, Jr. by Henrietta Veselka • Rev. Msgr. James C. Brunner Seminary Burse Acolyte Candidate In memory of Paul Veselka by Henrietta In memory of Rev. Msgr. James C. Brunner Veselka by Leroy Brunner In memory of Brother Knight Larry Hoeinghaus by K of C Council #2902, • Rev. Wayne Flagg Seminary Burse Schulenburg Candidate In honor of Rev. Wayne Flagg by • Rev. Msgr. John C. Peters Seminary Michael and Julie Koch Burse #8 Lector Education of Seminarian Fund • Rev. Wayne Flagg and Rev. Philip In memory of Rev. James Nischan by: Brune Seminary Burse Pat Mladenka The Education of Seminarian Fund is a fund in which all of the monies donated to this fund, as Lector Kubena Funeral Home, Dan, Eugene, well as the earnings, are available to cover the cost of educating seminarians. The proceeds of In memory of Raymond Korenek by Andy and Alison the special collection on Holy Thursday are deposited into the Education of Seminarian Fund. Lambert and Carol Brune • Rev. Michael Rother Seminary Burse Publication of this fund will appear when new contributions are received. In memory of Catherine Kaltwasser by Donation categories: Lector – $.01 - $99.99; Acolyte – $100 - $499.99; Candidate – $500 - Elbert and Joan Brune Transitional Deacon Donation in honor of Rev. Michael Rother $1,499.99; Transitional Deacon – $1,500 - $2,499.99; Priest – $2,500 >. In honor of Rev. Philip Brune’s birthday celebration by: Lector Candidate Elbert and Joan Brune • St. John the Baptist Church, St. John In Dan & Barbara Respondek Mark and Sharon Kubicek Memory of Rev. Brian Crookes

in Memory of Ron Friedel and ~ Seminary Burse #2 Dawn Sandra Warzecha • Chase Goodman Seminary Burse Acolyte Transitional Deacon Candidate In memory of Irene Knebel by Alan & Betsy Lockley ~ In memory of Charles Allen Kutchka, Sr., The Lillian Besetzny Family in Memory of Patsy Valenta Bertha Dell McDowell, Pauline “Polly” Priest Rab, Dolores Gooding, Janette “Jan” Kyle, Dolores Schroller and Julie’s

Acolyte ~ beloved Godmother, Jackie Anger Tanner Jane Prihoda To contribute to an existing Seminary To contribute to the Education of by Mark and Julie Goodman in Memory of Molly Cernosek Seminarian Fund, send contributions to: Endowment Fund, send contributions with the appropriate fund designation to: • Rev. Scott Hill Seminary Burse Catholic Life Insurance Diocese Of Victoria Lector Diocese Of Victoria Victoria Branch #51 Education of Seminarian Fund Seminary Endowment Fund P. O. Box 4070 In memory of Ann Powers Orscheln by P. O. Box 4070 Victoria, TX 77903 Daryl and Joan Hill Victoria, TX 77903 The Catholic Lighthouse DIOCESE Page 5 — February 2021 No excuse outweighs our need for God EDITOR’S NOTE: The following sermon weakness and temptation, we are in great was written for the third Sunday in Lent, need of God’s help. Nothing could be a Cycle B. Father Kram titled it, “Loyalty and stronger plea for God’s help than Jesus’ own Worship.” Father Body and Blood offered in sacrifice for us In Jesus’ day, Jews over 19 years of age and given for our spiritual nourishment in the were obliged to pay the temple tax, and this Charles Kram Holy Eucharist. tax had to be paid with a coin called a shekel. In view of such things as these, what Jews from many different places came to Je- conclusions can we draw? rusalem every year to celebrate the Passover, Corner First, if you are young, be sure to keep bringing their own kinds of money with them, cultivating good religious habits that will es- so the moneychangers did a landslide business tablish a pattern in your life that will keep you at that time. 1929-2000 close to Christ and to the Church in later years. Also, furnishing birds and animals for the If you are married and have children, do it pilgrims to use in the temple sacrifices brought also for them. Example speaks so much louder much gain to the suppliers. The problem than words. If YOU don’t take God seriously, was that the dealers made huge profits and Mass, because I would be going for the wrong priest hurt my feelings 70 years ago.” why should your children? As once happened committed many injustices in their business reasons, and that’s a sin.” It’s like saying, “I Our relationship with God must not de- to a dad who was trying to encourage his little dealings. don’t pay my bills either, because I would be pend on foolish excuses or trivia. son to behave: He said to the boy, “Don’t Furthermore, these dealings took place in doing it because I owe them.” So let’s consider a few sound reasons for you want to amount to something? Don’t the temple precincts, which was a profanation A silver medal would go to a man who remaining faithful to our religious practices. you want to grow up to be somebody?” The of the temple. said, “I don’t go because there are hypocrites First, since God is the Supreme Being, little boy answered, “No, Dad, I want to be Abuses like these and Jesus’ anger over there.” If this well-intentioned man waits until and since we depend on Him so much as in- just like you.” them should make us take a closer look at the Church is perfect, he may find that he is dividuals AND as a group, we must pay Him If you are growing old, think of your our own religious practices and why we not good enough to belong. worship in private, by our personal prayers growing dependence on God in your declin- perform them. And the winner of a bronze medal would and religious practices, but also in PUBLIC ing years and of the legacy of faithfulness you Recently, a lady told me that she had be a man who told me, “I quit going years by our GROUP acts of worship together with will before long be leaving to those who will left the Catholic Church a few years earlier ago because a sick old priest who, in fact, fellow members of our human family. We be taking your place. because she was tired of all that Latin – even died five days later, wouldn’t officiate at my can’t just say, “I’ll say my prayers at home,” Try taking a leisurely stroll through the though Latin had already been out of use in daughter’s wedding, and when I tried to talk or “I’ll watch on TV.” We are not hermits or cemetery sometime and look at the names and the Church for some 30 years. him into it, he pointed to the door and said, islands. We are all in this world together. dates on the gravestones. Speculate on who If medals were given for the most clever ‘There’s the door; use it.’” At the judgment Secondly, instead of worshipping merely the individuals were and how they lived and reasons for not going to church, I would award he can try telling Jesus, “I kept my distance out of a sense of duty, we ought rather to do died and where their souls are now. gold to a lady who told me, “I don’t go to from you for so long because a half-dead old so out of love and appreciation for God’s great As the years go by, we will realize more goodness to us. We don’t say to God, “Lord, and more how faithful God is to us in all His I’m here because my parents made me come promises and how justified we are in remain- or because I don’t want to end up in hell.” ing true to Him without asking for any more Newly ordained Deacon Kotzur passes away We each have a free will and we can choose proofs or signs like the Jews did. Continued from pg. 3 to be here with the attitude, “Lord, I love Lord Jesus, thank you for showing us what advisory council, and served as the OLV fes- Jerome was called to this religious vocation you more than anything else on Earth and I we must do. Help us always to remain loyal tival chairman. He treasured his time in the and looked forward to humbly serving our am deeply grateful to be able to spend a little in spite of a multitude of distractions and OLV adult and teen ACTS ministry, organiz- Lord and his church community. time with you.” temptations. Grant that when we worship, it ing and attending multiple retreats over the Jerome is survived by his wife of 40 years, Thirdly, we owe it to ourselves to remain may always be for the best of reasons, in spirit years. In Jerome’s youth he was a boy scout; Tammy; daughter Keleigh and husband Cliff; faithful because, especially in the midst of and truth. Amen. and, when his sons became of age to partici- daughter Katie and husband Bradley; son pate, he also joined as an ardent volunteer. Kyle and wife Jackie; son Kurt and partner He was a constant participant in Cub Scouts Greg. In addition to his wife and children, and an integral part of the adult leadership for Jerome also leaves behind two of the great Pregnant? OLV Troop 364. In 2007 he received a De- loves of his life: grandsons Nathan and River. Leon District Assistant Scoutmaster Award. Jerome is also survived by his sister Emma Need As the proudest member of the Fightin’ and husband Sammy, brother Eugene, his Texas Aggie Class of 1980- WHOOP, Jerome “adopted mom” Betty Mercer, nieces, neph- Help? Kenneth J. French, Sr. was active in the Victoria County A&M Club, ews, cousins, and friends. Jerome’s devoted Confidential and caring assistance including serving as president. dog, Khloe, will miss him dearly. Jerome 1501 E Mockingbird, available for the following needs: Ste 102 In 2016, Jerome proudly became a grand- was preceded in death by his father, Sixtus • Emotional • Material • Spiritual • father to his first grandchild, Nathan James Kotzur, and his beloved mother, Mary Ann Educational • Providing immediate Victoria, TX 77901 Mikeska. In 2019, his second grandchild, Clif- Kotzur. The family will host a celebration of and practical help. We have a special concern for you ford Ray West IV “River” was born. Jerome’s life at a later date when it is safe to do so. The and your unborn child. grandchildren were shining lights in his life. family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations Gabriel Project of the Crossroads On November 21, 2020, Jerome fulfilled be made in his memory to the Our Lady of Toll Free a longtime dream when he was ordained a Victory Cathedral St. Vincent de Paul Society, 1-866-MARY AID 1-866-627-9243 (361) 576-0178 deacon of the Catholic Church. The same day, a Catholic charitable organization that benefits www.victoriagabrielproject.org [email protected] he was able to baptize his grandson River. the poor locally. The Catholic Lighthouse Page 6 — January 2021 DIOCESE It’s time to think about penance One of the treasured traditional making because of COVID-19 could be if done in a spirit of penance and caring prayers of our religious congregation is acts of penance. Wearing masks, which for one another. Saying “no” to invitations the rosary; with each of the mysteries is Sisterly can be uncomfortable and make it hard to large family and social gatherings can included is a spiritual fruit. On one of the to breathe, can be considered a penance be real penance. Sorrowful Mysteries we pray for “love Thoughts performed to protect others and ourselves. Finally, all these actions can serve as of penance.” Social distancing and isolating ourselves a loving time of preparation for the cel- Now I’ve often wondered how I can from loved ones can be a magnificent act ebration of the triumphant feast of Easter. ever love penance, but I’ve continued to By Sister Mildred Truchard, IWBS say the prayer even though I’m far from achieving that spiritual fruit. I’ve often Enjoying lunch socially distanced reflected on the many opportunities that ordinary life presents for the practice of ening our relationship with our Creator, penance. We have often been told to “offer Sustainer and Savior. Prayer, always nec- it up” when faced with unfortunate (in our essary, is needed especially now for peace eyes) events that confront us; however, we in our country and throughout the world. can look at such events as an opportunity Fasting can include depriving ourselves of practicing penance. of food (check restrictions), practices that Father Kristopher Fuchs, In case you are wondering why we are are not life-giving, or activities that do pastor of St. Mary’s in thinking of penance now, we just have to not promote loving family relationships. Victoria, joins a group of students for lunch at look at our calendars. We see that Ash Almsgiving, sharing what we have Nazareth Academy. Wednesday, the beginning of the season with those who in need, is so necessary Christians call Lent, is almost upon us. now especially during the pandemic when During this penitential season, all of us are so many of our brothers and sisters are called to prayer and fasting, almsgiving suffering. and penance. And now we come to penance, the Prayer, lifting and turning our minds topic we had been considering. I like and hearts to God, is a way of strength- to think that the sacrifices that we are The Catholic Lighthouse DIOCESE Page 7 — February 2021 HR assistant marks 1 year

Not everybody thought 2020 was so years, Garcia, a West Texas native from terrible. Fort Stockton, worked in human resources Marie Garcia, who on Feb. 14 marks her at the University of Houston-Victoria and first anniversary as the human resources as- Performance Food Group. sistant at the Diocese of Victoria, counts it as She has 19-year-old twin boys, Joshua a good one, though different than expected and Joseph. “My boys are my world,” she because of COVID-19. said. One of her boys has been When she was laid off from attending Victoria College and Pioneer, an oil field company, intends to pursue a degree in she said she prayed, “God please music, and the other is recently just put me where I need to be.” employed as a corrections of- And she landed at the chan- fice for the Victoria County cery where she felt at home Sheriff’s Department. almost instantly, she said. She Her family attends the Ca- added that she still amazed at thedral of Our Lady of Victory how much peace working in the in Victoria. chancery has given her. In her spare time, Marie Garcia has been busy with helps care for her mother daily. her HR duties and helping with Seminarian education fund gift She said she unwinds by putting Contributed Photo the Hispanic ministry, but said Marie Garcia in ear buds and “zoning out” The late Albert Leo “Puppy” Bures is shown with Bishop Brendan Cahill and seminarian she is anxious to get on the road while mowing the lawn. Shane Goertz. Before his death in June 2020, Bures, who once was a Franciscan Brother, more and meet people face to face She is also currently working established the Albert and Cathy Bures Legacy Fund to support the education of seminarians when the pandemic subsides enough to allow. to gain her Society of Human Resources in Diocese of Victoria. While still a religious brother, he saw potential in pecan farming and Besides Pioneer for eighth and a half Management (SHRM) certification. asked his superiors to allow him to pursue this agricultural avenue. Later he resigned from the Franciscan Order and continued farming. He later married and is survived by his wife, Spiritual Renewal Center Cathy (Cook) Bures, as well as a sister, Angelina Bures Smith.

The Spiritual Renewal Center (SRC) is located on approximately 40 acres nestled WALKING FOR UNBORN LIVES along the banks of the San Antonio River Continued from pg. 1 and about a 25-minute drive from Victoria. The SRS is open for small or large group which can be a one-day or over night with Her parents, in an attempt to steer her away That was on the feast day of the Holy Family. a kitchen staff to provide meals. There is from the influences she’d already chosen, Justin, who is now the director of Family also an open pavilion for outdoor activities. sent her to live with a relative in the United Evangelization at the Diocese of Victoria, Handicap accessible. States. She went to school, had relationships, and Laura, have now become the family that For more information or to reserve the worked and partied. It wasn’t fulfillment. she always wanted. SRC contact Matthew Boyle, director, by It was during a visit with her mother, At the end, she asked those gathered to email [email protected] or at who wanted to attend a Pentecost service at remember three things: First, pray hard for 361-572-0836. Reyes’ church in Florida, that Reyes expe- God to rescue the women who are living in rienced a conversion. sin – that God will bring them the conver- “When we walked in the church there sion that she was given. Second, continue was praise and worship music. I knelt to pray the fight against abortion by “living the and all of a sudden I felt this heat of the Holy sacraments as if they were going to be gone Spirit inundating my entire body. I began tomorrow.” And, third, celebrate life and all crying tears of both joy and repentance.” the babies who are born into the world. She said she rejoiced in the healing she Bernie Seale, one of the organizers of the felt and confessed her sins “for real this march, said she did not know there would be time.” “I cannot describe to you how intense so many this year. “I kept hearing people say this experience was. But I can tell you it was that there’s a lot of people talking about it,” very, very real.” she said. But given the pandemic situation She added that the sacraments were and all that has changed, there was no way suddenly of utmost importance to her. “The to know. “In my mind, I didn’t know if we Eucharist became essential for me. How would have a 100 people,” she said. could I have received the Lord so unworthily Laura Reyes was the guest speaker at the 34th The success of the event, she things stems all these years?” she asked herself. annual Candlelight March for Life in downtown partly from recent political happenings -- as Reyes changed her lifestyle completely Victoria on the evening of Jan. 28. the executive orders to make abortion more and asked God to bring her a man who loved accessible -- are stirring people’s desire to above all, not her, but God. She met her demonstrate their belief that life begins at husband, Justin, who proposed by asking if conception. “People realize we have to fight she wanted to “start a holy family” with him. for what is true and what is good,” she said. The Catholic Lighthouse Page 8 — February 2021 SCHOOLS Schools report second 9 weeks honor rolls St. Rose of Lima in Schulenburg Hannah Zimmerman Perfect attendance: Andrew Besetzny, 11th-grade: honors – Caitlin Alstrom, Mallory Bonner, Miranda Bonner, Brenley Kerigan Baumgartner, Lauren Berryhill, Bujnoch, Laramie Bujnoch, Tatum Bujnoch, Emma Cruz, Sarah Culpepper, Allison Garcia, Brody Cahal, Colson Cahal, William Eudy, Emilee Irby, Dawson Lehnert, Juan Llompart, Brielle Goedrich, Weston Hollas, Ellie Klein, Alexa Morris, Joshua Munoz, James Perez, Mary Beth Krischke, Ainsley Kutac, Cannon Gracen Rodgers, Jackson Stefka; high hon- Lykke, Abigale McBride, Abraham McBride, ors – Grant Carson, Dugan Chandler, Kloe Hudson Ohnheiser, Adam Reeves, Austin Cowan, Katherine Fairly, Coleman Fromme, Reeves, Ian Reeves, Gadiel Robles, Ashtyn Isabela Garza, Mary Hall, Andrew Hicks, Schaefer, Adam Schramek, Jacob Schramek, Arely Ibarra, Quinn Jones, Kate Letsinger, Justin Schramek, Marcus Seger, Morgan Raymond McCormick, Lindsay McKin- Schulenburg mayor helps celebrate Catholic Schools Week Steinhauser, Nathan Vacek, Tyson Wagner, ney, Callie Nelson, Sydney Partain, Ryan Contributed Photo Ellia Wotipka, & Lillia Wotipka. Pham, Jacob Pyatt, Kylie Rodgers, Nicholas SCHULENBURG — St. Rose of Lima students were present for the signing of a city Fourth grade: honors – Rilee Durfey, Rodriguez, Quinn Ruschhaupt, Lauren The- proclamation naming the week of Jan. 31 “Catholic Schools Week.” Shown with Schul- Tenley Zbranek, William Eudy, Brett Hollas, riot, Anna Valenzuela, Ryan Ward, Gabriel enburg Mayor Elaine Kocian are, from left, (front) Nathan Vacek, Jade Williams, Bailey Reese Dusek, Bo Brossmann; high honors - Weaver, Sarah Ybarra Beeman, Ree Lichnovsky, Addison Johnson, Brayden Rainosek, Abigale McBride, Tripp Mallory Bonner, Caroline Bartek, Weston 12th-grade: honors – Emily Chandler, Brown; (middle row) Morgan Steinhauser, Colson Cahal, Brody Cahal, Rylee Wright, Clare Hollas, Holden Holub Emily Chaney, Katelyn Delgado, Peter Eaves, Besetzny, Austin Reeves, William Eudy, Bo Brossmann; (back) Principal Rosanne Gallia, Fifth grade: honors – Jenna Guentert, Taylor Foeh, Anjali Gaalla, Dalton Hempel, Claire Oeding, Dakota Wick, Kellen Mechura, Reagan Dusek, Miranda Bonner and Denver Layne Besetzny, Ashtyn Schaefer, Allen Om Patel, Thea Porr, Zachary Shaver, Anna Carr. The school has plans for every day of the week, including Mass, special prayer times, Ballard, Brock Seger, Anna Oeding, Wil- Southern, Preslie Thomas, Eric Tibiletti; high fundraisers, service projects, games, and more. liam Taylor; high honors – Miranda Bonner, honors – Priyam Bhakta, Neha Chandna, Valerie Sedlar Rylee DeLaGarza, Jenna Eastham, Lauren Sixth-grade: honors – Joseph Schindler, Estraca, Ashley Fleener, Kieran Grones, Gor- Morgan Steinhauser, Colson Cahal, Brayden don Hicks, Matthew Janak, Devin Johnson, Stoever, Brant Redman; high honors - Ian Madison Korinek, Elaina Lee, Emma Milam, Reeves, Dillon Goedrich Brittany Olivares, Jacob Pena, Kristen Pham, Seventh-grade: honors – Clara Magliolo, Jose Ramos, Reed Rivera, Abigail Sparkman, Grace Schramek, Jamison Bennett, Mikayla Tara Swor, Heidi Terry, Austin Thompson, Stang, Landry Zapalac, Keeley Warnken; Maiya Tillman, Emily Webb high honors – Kenna Oliver, Reagan Dusek Eighth-grade: honors – Mary Beth St. Michael’s Catholic School, Cuero Krischke, Claire Oeding, Emma Schmidt, First-grade: honors: Emma Bargmann, Avery Helms; high honors – Marcus Seger, Brylee Dlugosch, Korbyn Flack, Taylor Madison Kunschick Hoefling, Liam Krueger, Poppy Sprinkle; high honors – Boston Lincke Learning about conservation St. Joseph High School, Victoria Second-grade: honors – Shelby Arguellez, Contributed Photos Ninth-grade: honors – Maanvi Agarwal, Annie Crain, Charlie Derouen, Brenllie Knox, SCHULENBURG — St. Rose of Lima students who won awards in the Fayette Soil and Enzo Bruschini, Ava Carson, Brynn DeBord, Julian Naranjo, Cameron Rodriguez, Dutch Water Conservation District coloring, poster and essay contests are as follows: Tyler Kirkpatrick, Ethan Lara, Patricia Tieken; high honors – Ryder Beldin, Bentlee Coloring Contest: Kindergarten – 1st Emma McCourt, 2nd Haven Sheppard, 3rd Brody Manning, Kassidy Nethery, Matthew Pena, Dluglosch, Kellan Hahn, Mary-Kate Kucera, Brossmann; First grade – 1st Brylee Stoever, 2nd Andrew Besetzny, 3rd Jack Schiffli; Nathan Pena, Parker Preiss, Aleyna St. Jean, Kloey Saenz Second grade – 1st Rylee Wright, 3rd Gage Smrkovsky; Poster Contest: Third grade – Tomas Tejera, Kayleigh Valderrama; high Third-grade: honors – Michael Capak, 2nd (tie) Brynn Bubela & Austin Reeves, 3rd Abraham McBride; Fifth grade – 1st Layne honors – Bridget Bludau, Thomas Copeland, Jesse Harryman, Carlton Orch, Paige Rip- Besetzny, 2nd Valerie Sedlar, 3rd Brock Seger; Sixth grade – 1st Ian Reeves, 2nd Caden Emma Dugi, Harper Edwards, Diego Garza, pamonti, Abree Zengerle; high honors – Ellie Herzik, 3rd Connor Lichnovsky; Essay Contest: Fourth grade – 2nd (tie) Holden Holub Grace Harrison, Katherine Kopecky, Morgan Bargmann, Elias Gomex, Aadin Koopman, & Bo Brossmann, 3rd Courtney Magliolo; Eighth grade – 2nd Emma Schmidt Korinek, Emmett Lee, Mia Mabray, Nissa Camille Person Pham, Safiya Qureshi, Spencer Settles, Kay- Fourth-grade: honors – Ally Hoefling, len Smith, Madeline Stefka, Ethan Tucker, Orrin Holland, Skyland Lamprecht; high William Weischwill honors – Drake Corpus, Elena Gomez, Maria 10th-grade: honors – Hogan Bazan, Ian Gonzales Etienne, Aryan Gaalla, Samuel Harrell, Fifth-grade: honors – Kyley Flack, Mad- Audrey Janak, Grace Janak, Luis Ramos, elynn Hiles; high honors – Cannon Carbonara, Avery Reyes, Xavier Richmond, Jace Sad- Palyn Koopman, Charlene Orch dler, Mallory Santana, Reice Tibiletti; high Sixth-grade: honors – Rylie Krueger, honors – Avery Belew, Joshua Bonorden, Eve Makayla Cardenas; high honors – Claire Brogger, Larkin Burris, Emily Dickinson, Person Lisa Du, Seth Fry, Joshua Henry, Cora King, Anna Paula Llompart, Thomas Lopez, Megan Miori, Jacqueline Nguyen, Amy Pham, Anya See Schools report second Tomanek, Hailey Urban, Samuel Whitaker, 9 weeks honor roll, pg. 9 The Catholic Lighthouse SCHOOLS Page 9 — February 2021 Teachers celebrate milestones Continued from pg. 1 many ways. said, “She probably eats, Catholic Schools in Tammy Grabarkievtz, 15 years at Shiner Catholic Georganna Meismer, now retired, taught drinks and lives Our Lady the Diocese of Victoria Schools; with Hall for 26 years and calls her a top-notch of Victory.” have many dedicated Donna Hagel, 15 years at Shiner Catholic Schools; teacher. “She is the best Texas history teacher Hall said that, yes, staff members celebrat- you will ever, ever have,” Meismer said. Kerri Knippa, 15 years at Our Lady of Victory; the same morals and val- ing landmark anniversa- Jerry Lapinski, 15 years at Holy Cross in Bay Hall said sharing her own experiences as ues she began teaching ries this year. They are: City; a Texan – learning about fishing and marine are still important today. Gretchen Boyle, 35 Alvin Mumphord III, 15 years at St. Joe in life and farming -- help bring her teaching to And now she is teaching years at St. Joseph High Victoria; life for her students. grandchildren of some of School in Victoria. Boyle Virginia Olsovsky, 15 years at St. Rose of Lima; Meismer and Hall were seventh-grade her early students. When was a graduate of St. Joe Laura Walla, 15 years at St. Anthony; teachers together for many years. According she has been asked to take who returned to help Jennifer Carson, 10 years at St. Joe, Victoria; to Meismer, one of the many gifts Hall brings other jobs, she has always keep the mission strong. BJ Chavez, 10 years at Holy Cross; Jen Korenek, 10 years at St. Joe in Victoria; to the profession is a strong faith. consulted with Sister Sandy Darr, 30 years of Hall said the rosary has always been very Amy Lara, 10 years at Our Lady of Victory; Emilie, who brought her service at St. Anthony J. Daryl McCollough, 10 years at St. Joe in important to her and she has make it a point to there in the first place. School in Columbus; Victoria; make sure the students know how to pray the She said Sister Emilie has Mary Sue Ferrell, 30 years Brenda Ortmann, 10 years at Our Lady of Victory; rosary and have the chance to do so in school. always convinced her to of service at St. Joseph in Maria Perez, 10 years at St. Philip the Apostle She also has organized the Stations of stay because the children Yoakum; in El Campo; the Cross during Lent and her students have need her. Dorothy Gehrke, 30 years Judy Barrett, 5 years, St. Philip the Apostle; loved that, according to Meismer. And she Sister Emilie asked of service at Our Lady of Debbie Bollom, 5 years, Shiner Catholic Schools; organized for the seventh and eighth grade a Victory; Jennifer Bossley, 5 years, Holy Cross; Hall to create a special Suzanne Krejci, 30 years of rosary before class on days during Lent. Jane Cole, 5 years, Holy Cross; program, Guidance, service at Nazareth Acad- “It’s all about the kids,” said Jody Brown, Rebecca Gray, 5 years, Our Lady of the Gulf in which Hall did and that emy in Victoria; Port Lavaca; longtime friend of Hall and someone who has given her a chance to Mona Dornak, 25 years of Twinkle Johnson, 5 years, Our Lady of the Gulf; has helped Hall coach students. Brown said help kids on a deeper service at Our Lady of Gwen Hall in her seventh-grade class- Sally Leinen, 5 years, Our Lady of Victory; Hall started the PE and athletics program at level. Hall said Guid- Victory; Cheryl Marwitz, 5 years, Our Lady of the Gulf; room, Room 401 that has been her class- the school and remembers when the practices ance is a class period Rosailia Gomez, 25 years Amanda Matula, 5 years, St. Philip the Apostle; room for 50 years. (Catholic Lighthouse were in the Mesquite street parking and ev- where the students can of service at Our Lady of Paula McCauley, 5 years, Our Lady of the Gulf; File Photo from 2009-2010 school year) eryone who was involved was hands on in learn how to navigate Victory; Monica Morales, 5 years, Our Lady of Victory; setting up a playing field. Sabra Sauer, 25 years of Ripple Neta, 5 years, St. Philip the Apostle; the difficulties of ado- service at St. Joseph in Victoria; Brown said that, although Hall is no longer Lisa Omecinski, 5 years, Our Lady of Victory; lescence by talking it out. Matt Bonner, 20 years of service at St. Rose of coaching, she works hard to teach the values Shelly Reissig, 5 years, Nazareth Academy; Through it all, Meismer said, the children Lima in Schulenburg; Destiny Sager, 5 years, Nazareth Academy; of sportsmanship and respect to the children. have simply loved her. “’I’m here for the kids.’ Jeannie Mican, 20 years of service at St. Rose Jackie Scott, 5 years, St. Anthony; Her methods are old school and “successful,” She has said that from the get-go,” Meismer of Lima; Karen Wysocki, 5 years, Sacred Heart in Hal- Brown said. About her dedication, which is said, “You’ll just never find another Gwen.” Rosanne Gallia, 15 years, St. Rose of Lima; lettsville; and self-evident given her years of service, Brown Steve Zornes, 5 years, Sacred Heart

honors – Quade Henneke, Victoria Kraatz, St. Michael School, Weimar Schools report second 9 weeks honor rolls Bailey Schindler Second-grade: honors – Brandt Kahanek, 12th-grade: honors – Emma Hawkins, Cade Wessels, Owen Berger, Chandler Wil- Continued from pg. 8 Brennan Kana, Kyle Lemke, Trey Ridgeway liams, Frank Janecka; high honors – Hayes III; high honors – Abigail Clark, Katy Shank, Kloesel Sacred Heart Catholic School, Hallettsville Peyton Cull, Allyshia Grahmann, Kathryn Beth Ventura Third-grade: honors – Olivia Elstner, Fifth-grade: honors – Phillip Brous- Ivey, Amanda Janak, Maryn Machac, An- Macie Davis; high honors – Gage Kainer, sard; high honors – Ainsley Grahmann, Ben neliese Noska, Paige Wright, Alyssa Zbranek; St. Joseph School, Yoakum Andie Melnar Meinkowsky high honors – Nicholas Angerstein, James Fourth-grade: honors – Allie McKinney, Fourth-grade: honors – Chloe Brandt, Sixth-grade: honors – Ysabella Arellano, Cesarz, Klayton Chance, Kalynn Fikac, Kylie Josephine Pilat, Weston Tucker, Faith Wen- Joseph Rowland, Sarah Jane Berger, Layne Jillian Whited; high honors – Kenzie Chance, Fikac, Joseph Goodwyne, Elena Grahmann, ske; high honors – Avery Driskell Schimcek; high honors – Emily Wied Allison Clark, Layne Sevcik Kayla Immekus, Alexandra Kraatz, Ava Fifth-grade: honors – Nicholas Adamek, Fifth-grade: honors – Dayson Mace, Cul- Seventh-grade: honors – Avery Beach, Lackey, Ava Matias, Haley Noska, Natalie Shooter Laqua, Ty Smith; high honors – Jax- len Marek, Dawson Brandt, Hudson Hillje, Brody Etzler, Lanie Haas, Alaina Halata, Tim- Osina, Braxtyn Sitka son Eggemeyer, Trent Ferry, Caden Werland Victoria Sherwood, Kendall Jahn; high honors ber Janak, Mabry Machac, Bransen Miranda; 10th-grade: honors – Madelyn Hynes, Sixth-grade: honors – Avery Mendoza, – Ella Herzik high honors -- Ella Demel, Rylan Dworsky, Lilly Machicek, Katherine Pavliska, Sarah Trevor Moreno; high honors – Reagan Re- Sixth-grade: honors – Trey Silcox, Mad- Ryan Janak, Ty Noska Slatter; high honors – Arabella Arellano, spondek elyn Rerich, Emma Koeth, Trevor Bentley, Eighth-grade: honors – Sam Bludau, Ann Estelle Brown, Savannah Filip, Kylie Seventh-grade: honors – Adison Poole, Tucker Janak, Robert Sanchez; high honors Caleb Brooks, Abigail Hill, Thia Ashley In- Grahmann, Bailey Haas, Arianna Henke, Teagan Ratley; high honors – Jordyn Driskell, – Hunter Shupak fante, Hudson Kutac, Mallory Mueller, Harley Melea Henke, Jules Janak, Kathryn Kostelnik, Erin Fisher, Madisen Grant, Kilynn Poole, Eighth-grade: honors – Bralen Heger, Wilson, Heather Wilson; high honors – Lance Garrett Ridgeway, Brett Sestak Kyleigh Powell, Gracyn Wolf Hannah Hillje, Huxton Kloessel, Jonathan Barton, Annika Brooks, Brianna Clark, Karley 11th-grade: honors – Allie Bludau, Jillian Eighth-grade: honors – Gael Castillo, Shupak, Erica Billeck, Claire Pavlu; high Kostelnik, Adalyn Pohl Brown, Erin Fawbush, Elizabeth Grahmann, Tabitha Hiles, Ben Jahn, Christian Rivas; honors – Logan Kainer, Lily Berger Ninth-grade: honors – Chloe Alex- Michael Koeth, Austin Kutac, Myles Mach- high honors – Samantha Adamek, Gracee Hartensteiner, Idan Awuah, Lillieana Bludau, icek, Audrey Weber, John Luke Wysocki; high Respondek The Catholic Lighthouse Page 10 — February 2021 ESPAÑOL Batalla con la COVID-19 aumenta conexión humana

BISHOP MICHAEL SIS Es difícil ser productivo cuando estás en Francisco en su Momento Extraordinario que lleguemos allí, y veamos a Dios cara a Especial para el Lighthouse cuarentena, especialmente si estás luchando de Oración en la Plaza de San Pedro vacía cara. En el cielo, no habrá más lágrimas, no El coronavirus se había estado propa- contra una enfermedad. Hay varios proyectos el 27 de marzo de 2020. Dijo que, mientras más enfermedades, no más dolor, no más gando en nuestra área ya por ocho meses. en los que estaba trabajando que se han re- que la raza humana lucha con la pandemia soledad, no más dolor de separación y no Le agradecí a Dios por el don de la salud, trasado. Esto es frustrante, porque me gusta del coronavirus, hay que recordar la experi- más muerte. que me permitió seguir sirviendo a nuestro hacer las cosas bien. encia de sus discípulos cuando Jesús calmó Sabiendo que algunos de mis compa- pueblo en un momento de grave pandemia Sin embargo, es un la tormenta violenta en el Mar de Galilea en ñeros de trabajo en las oficinas diocesanas y agitación social. Aquí en San Ángelo, recordatorio de que Marcos 4:35-41. Las olas rompían sobre el también dieron positivo por COVID-19 llevábamos mucho tiempo planeando un el núcleo de nuestro barco, y se llenaba de agua. Jesús dormía alrededor del mismo tiempo que yo, lamento foro de relaciones raciales, en el cuál incluía valor como seres hu- profundamente en la popa, confiando en el la posibilidad de haberles transmitido el líderes comunitarios, funcionarios guber- manos no está en Padre. Sus discípulos lo despertaron con virus sin saberlo antes de tener síntomas, y namentales, portavoces universitarios, y nuestra productivi- miedo y ansiedad, gritando: “Maestro, ¿no por cualquier impacto negativo que esto ha pastores de varias iglesias. Yo tenía grandes dad, sino más bien en te importa que perezcamos?” Jesús inme- tenido en sus familias. Rezo por la sanación esperanzas en su potencial para enfrentar el el hecho de que esta- diatamente calmó la tormenta y les recordó de todos los afectados por esta pandemia. Al racismo. Sin embargo, dado que el número mos hechos a imagen que tuvieran fe. mirar hacia atrás, me siento muy aliviado de de casos aumentó, decidí posponer el evento. y semejanza de Dios. Cuando el Papa Francisco reflejó en este que no llevamos a cabo el foro de relaciones La mañana después de que el evento se Nuestro “ser” es, pasaje del Evangelio, hizo resaltar varias raciales en San Ángelo en ese día en que, sin hubiera llevado a cabo, empecé a sentirme en última instancia, Obispo cosas que nos ayudan en nuestra lucha saberlo, yo tenía el virus. De lo contrario, febril en mi oficina. Empaqué mi computa- más importante que Michael Sis contra el coronavirus: Estamos juntos en el podría haberse convertido en un evento de dora portátil y me dirigí directamente a la nuestro “hacer”. mismo barco, y Jesús está aquí en el barco superpropagación para el virus. instalación de pruebas rápidas. Unas horas Me sostuvieron las oraciones de muchos con nosotros. Él sí se preocupa por nosotros. Estoy profundamente agradecido con más tarde, me contactaron con la buena no- de ustedes, y estoy muy agradecido por eso. Nada puede separarnos del amor de Cristo. quienes me han ayudado en mi batalla contra ticia de un resultado negativo, diciendo que También encontré mucho consuelo en el Necesitamos confiar en él. Dios vuelve a lo el coronavirus. Estos incluyen a los que se ya podía volver al trabajo. Sin embargo, no rezo del Rosario y en la meditación de los bueno todo lo que nos pasa, incluso las co- pusieron en contacto conmigo, los que de- confiaba en el resultado, porque todavía no Salmos del Oficio Diario. Como tengo una sas malas. Debemos abrazar las dificultades jaron cosas en mi porche, los sacerdotes que había explicación para mi fiebre persistente. capilla en mi casa, celebraba la misa todos como nuestra forma de abrazar la Cruz de cubrieron las Misas que estaba programado Mantuve una auto-cuarentena solo para los días, que era la mayor fuente de gracia. Jesús. para celebrar, las personas que llamaron y estar seguro. Busqué una prueba de PCR y En la Eucaristía, pude rezar en unión con Mi caso de COVID me ha llevado a enviaron correos electrónicos, y los muchos logré encontrar una en una farmacia local. todos ustedes y con todo el Cuerpo Místico confiar más en Dios. Ha sido un ejercicio de que ofrecieron oraciones a Dios en mi favor. Dos días después, la farmacia me envió el de Cristo. fe. La Carta a los Hebreos dice: “Tener fe es Esas oraciones han hecho una enorme dife- fatídico correo electrónico. Antes de abrirlo, En la profundidad de mi enfermedad, con tener la plena seguridad de recibir lo que se rencia positiva. También estoy agradecido oré: “Señor, hágase tu santa voluntad. Dame tos, fiebre, y una opresión en mi pecho, y espera; es estar convencidos de la realidad por todos los que trabajan en instalaciones la gracia de afrontar cualquier resultado”. La preocupado por las posibles complicaciones de cosas que no vemos” (Heb. 11:1). No médicas y farmacias. Todos los días ellos se nota de la farmacia incluía la palabra escrita pulmonares, me sentí muy cerca de Jesús. podemos ver a Dios, pero él está aquí con no- enfrentan al peligro de contraer una infec- en rojo - positivo. Recordé lo que había leído hace años en sotros. Él nunca nos abandonará. Puede que ción; sin embargo, luchan con valentía para Mi lucha contra el coronavirus se pro- diversos estudios académicos que, colgado no nos libere de contraer el virus, pero nos da ayudar a otros a sanar. Les estaré eterna- longó durante días. No recuerdo nunca en en la Cruz, una de las muchas cosas que Jesús la gracia de enfrentarlo con más serenidad. mente agradecido a todos ustedes. mi vida haber tenido una fiebre que duró sufrió fue la dificultad para respirar y falta de Los retos de esta enfermedad también Estamos juntos en este barco. Debemos tanto. Tenía un gran deseo de evitar la oxígeno suficiente. Jesús sintió el dolor y la me recuerdan de nuestra creencia cristiana remar juntos y poner nuestra confianza en hospitalización, en la medida de lo posible, lucha de no poder tomar suficiente aire. Por en la vida eterna. Como seres humanos, Dios. ya que los recursos hospitalarios aquí en el lo tanto, nuestras dificultades respiratorias de nos entristece la realidad de la muerte, pero oeste de Texas son escasos. Tomé vitaminas COVID-19 pueden conectarnos más íntima- como cristianos, nos consuela la promesa y medicamentos como si estuvieran pasando mente con Jesús. Entonces, en mi oración, le de la inmortalidad. Nuestro único verdadero de moda. Hice varios descubrimientos fasci- pedí a Jesús que uniera mi enfermedad a su hogar está en el cielo. Al final, somos ciu- nantes, como el hecho de que el Pedialyte sin experiencia en la Cruz, para que yo pudiera dadanos del cielo, y nuestros corazones están sabor sabe mucho mejor que el saborizado. compartir de alguna manera su sufrimiento inquietos hasta que descansen allí con Dios. Dormí más que nunca, porque la fiebre es- redentor por el bien de la humanidad. Dios nos ha creado con una orientación in- taba agotando mi cuerpo. En medio de mi experiencia con el coro- nata hacia nuestro hogar en el cielo, y nunca Diocese of Victoria Pasar por la enfermedad día tras día me navirus, un día en el que no me sentía nada estaremos completamente satisfechos hasta in Texas puso en contacto con mi propia debilidad y bien, estaba en una teleconferencia con algu- vulnerabilidad humana. Me ayudó para iden- nas viejas amistades. Uno de ellos hizo una Office of Family Presidio La Bahia tificar más de cerca con la vulnerabilidad de declaración que me pareció profundamente otras personas en todo el mundo, incluyendo cristiana. Ella dijo: “Asegúrate de orar por Evangelization Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. los que están enfermos, ancianos, personas nosotros mientras estés enfermo, porque las Admission is $5 for adults, sin hogar, en prisiones, hospitales, hogares oraciones de los que están sufriendo son Justin Reyes, Director $4.50 for seniors, $3.50 for de ancianos, campos de refugiados, y en los especialmente poderosas.” Ella me inspiró (361) 573-0838 military personnel, $2 for cuidados paliativos. En mi enfermedad me a hacer oraciones adicionales de intercesión Ext. 2265 children 6-11, and under 6 sentí más conectado con la familia humana durante mi enfermedad por las necesidades email: jreyes@ are free. Group rates avail- able when reservations are en todas partes. Abracé un sentido de soli- de las personas en todas partes. victoriadiocese.org made in advance. Guided tours available to daridad con los que sufren, los que cuidan Otra fuente de sabiduría cristiana que large groups and schools. Please confirm in website: www.victoriadiocese.org/ de los enfermos, los que sufren una pérdida, me ayudó con mi propio caso de COVID advance. The fort is handicapped accessible. office-of-family-evangelization y los que sienten miedo y ansiedad. -19 proviene de la predicación del Papa For more information, call 361-645-3752. The Catholic Lighthouse ESPAÑOL Page 11 — February 2021 Las órdenes religiosas iluminan el camino hacia vidas más virtuosas Queridos hermanos y hermanas, todos estamos llamados a ser santos, santos San Juan Pablo II dedicó la Fiesta de la Mensaje llenos del espíritu. Presentación del Señor (2 de febrero) como Cualquiera que sea nuestro estado en la el Día Mundial de Oración por la Vida del Pastor vida, también nos estamos preparando para Consagrada. En este día, 40 días después de entrar en nuestra temporada anual de oración, Navidad, celebramos la revelación del niño ayuno y limosna. La Cuaresma comienza el Jesus como una “Luz” a todas las naciones, By Obispo Brendan Cahill miércoles de ceniza, 17 de febrero. Puede ser y el gozoso testimonio de Simeón y Ana de una buena reflexión preguntarnos cómo prac- que Dios es fiel a su pueblo. ticamos estas virtudes de pobreza, castidad y En Victoria, celebraremos una misa pueblo de Dios. Una cosa que he aprendido a todos los fieles, conlleva para quien libre- obediencia en nuestras propias vidas, y cómo especial en la catedral el 7 de febrero, agra- lo largo de los anos es que si le preguntas a un mente sigue la llamada a la vida consagrada la las enseñamos en nuestras familias. deciendo a Dios por el don de las mujeres miembro de una orden religiosa sobre su ca- obligación de practicar la castidad en el celi- Este Año de la Familia ha sido una consagradas que sirven en nuestra diócesis. risma o sobre su fundador o fundadora, ¡debes bato por el Reino, la pobreza y la obediencia. bendición especial en nuestra diócesis. Que Los miembros de las siguientes órdenes estar preparando para una respuesta larga! Es la profesión de estos consejos dentro de un podamos continuar enfocándonos en nuestra religiosas ofrecen su testimonio de la “Luz” Si bien cada orden es distinta en su don estado de vida permanente reconocido por la oración compartida, nuestro tiempo en las todos los días: Verbo Encarnado y Santísimo fundacional, los miembros de cada orden re- Iglesia, lo que caracteriza la vida consagrada comidas y nuestro tiempo jugando juntos; Sacramento, Catequistas Misioneros del Sa- ligiosa, tanto hombres como mujeres, ofrecen a Dios”. (CCC 915). y que todo lo que hagamos nos acerque al grado Corazón de Jesús y María, Hermanas su testimonio personal a través de votos para La “Luz” que honramos en las mujeres amor misericordioso de Jesús, la “Luz” de de la Caridad del Verbo Encarnado, Hermanas vivir las virtudes evangélicas. El Catecismo consagradas de nuestra diócesis, ojalá nos las naciones. Dominicas vietnamitas y Carmelitas de María cita la enseñanza del Concilio Vaticano II inspire a cada uno de nosotros, discípulos Que Dios los bendiga a ustedes ya sus siempre Virgen. sobre la vida religiosa: de Jesús que buscamos seguir este camino, a familias con los dones de paz y gozo; man- Cada una de estas órdenes religiosas tiene “Cristo propone los consejos evangélicos, vivir más plenamente los consejos evangéli- tengámonos en oración. una historia única en su fundación y servicio en su gran variedad, a cada discípulo. La per- cos de pobreza, castidad y obediencia. Como y un “carisma” (don) específico de servicio al fección de la caridad a la que están llamados enseña la hermosa tradición de nuestra iglesia, +Brendan Solicitantes de asilo cerca de frontera sienten esperanza con Biden

DAVID AGREN A pesar de las dificultades de seguir en el inscribirían después del 21 de enero, aunque asilo. Catholic News Service campamento y de extrañar desesperadamente pocas personas estaban siendo procesadas “Deberían eliminarlo. No tiene sentido MATAMOROS, México – Idalia Reyes a sus hijos, Reyes habló con cierta esperanza debido a las restricciones de entrada puestas para nadie”, dijo el padre escalabriniano Pat recuerda la desesperación que la empujó a de reunirse con su familia. Citó una sencilla en vigor durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Murphy, director de un albergue para migran- buscar a coyotes para que llevaran a sus niños razón: el presidente Joe Biden, quien prometió Los detalles de lo que va a ocurrir ahora tes en Tijuana. “Lo más pronto posible sería a los Estados Unidos. Reyes y sus hijos vivían un giro total en las políticas de inmigración y con personas que buscan asilo todavía no es- bueno comenzar un proceso de asilo que sea en un campamento de tiendas de campaña en asilo de los Estados Unidos. tán claros, y muchos aún tienen citas en cortes justo después de tantos años de injusticia de la rivera del Rio Grande, donde aguantaban “Nosotros teníamos la esperanza puesta estadounidenses, que se han ido posponiendo parte de la administración de Trump”. crimen, rachas de frío y plagas de insectos y en Joe Biden porque él lo había dicho que repetidamente durante la pandemia. A pesar de la escasez de detalles, la pro- serpientes. nos iba a ayudar y nosotros queríamos que él Los católicos que trabajan con los partici- spectiva de un cambio total bajo una nueva Después de que sus niños, de 7 y 4 años, ganara”, dijo Reyes. pantes en los programas, los exhortan a seguir administración en Estados Unidos ha elevado sufrieran un ataque de pústulas, buscó a los Reyes está todavía varada en Matam- teniendo paciencia. Algunos están animando los ánimos de los solicitantes de asilo que es- coyotes que cruzaron a los niños por el río oros—al otro lado de Brownsville, Texas— a la administración Biden a ir clausurando el tán varados en ciudades mexicanas inseguras durante la medianoche al lado de los Estados como parte de los Protocolos de Protección programa, que describen como “injusto” y a lo largo de la frontera de Estados Unidos y Unidos. Los niños enseguida se entregaron a de Migrantes, que obligan a quienes buscan diseñado para desanimar a los que solicitan México. los oficiales de inmigración y se reunieron con asilo a esperar en México a que se escuche su su padre, que ya residía en Estados Unidos caso en los tribunales de los Estados Unidos. con un hijo mayor. Biden ha prometido retirar los protocolos y “Es difícil ver sufrir a tus hijos,” recordaba anunció que los nuevos participantes no se Reyes durante una noche lluviosa en el cam- pamento. “Por eso decidí mandarlos a cruzar el río”. Heavenly Helpers

Office of Youth & Christian Store (979) 543-2850 Young Adult Ministry 1603 N Mechanic El Campo, TX 77437 Wendy Eggert, Director M-F 9:30 - 5:30 Sat. 9:30 - 3:00 Shannon Thomas, Associate Director First Communion, Confirmation, [email protected] Bibles, Books, Rosaries, Medals, (361) 573-0828 Statues, Baptism & Wedding Items www.victoriadiocese.org/youth-young- Inspirational Gifts adult-ministry The Catholic Lighthouse Page 12 — February 2021 DIOCESE Real love is truly divine It’s February, and we know what that Did you know that the word “love” ap- means: Valentine’s Day is coming! On the pears more than 300 times in some of the Seems that any store we walk into right most commonly used translations of the now has hearts filled with chocolates, teddy Bible? Here are two my favorite verses about bears, and balloons or cards for that “special Table God’s love, which in turn can show us how someone.” Valentine’s Day is no doubt a to love one another (NRSVCE translation): special day, and one that can rekindle our By Justin Reyes “Whoever does not love does not know God, love for our spouses. for God is love,” – 1 John 4:7. “For God so But what is love? And how do we love? loved the world that he gave his only Son, so Love begins with a person. Love begins that everyone who believes in him may not with Jesus Christ. If we want to love our “Whoever does not love perish but may have eternal life,’ – John 3:16. neighbors, let alone our spouses, we need does not know God, for So, if you want to love your spouse well to begin with loving God. God is love,” this Valentine’s Day, start by loving God. How does Christ show us love? As Cath- By accepting His love, you will be able to olics, we need to only look at the crucifix or – 1 John 4:7 love others. gaze upon the Most Blessed Sacrament. In Until next time, I hope this reflection both, Christ shows his free, total, faithful and fect way to prepare Valentine’s Day is going helps you to love well, and if you have any fruitful love. He gives us the perfect example to confession. When Christ cleanses us from questions at all, please reach out to me at of love for our marital vows, for we are also sin, and we experience His infinite love, we 361-573-0828, Ext. 2265. called to love our spouse with unselfish and will be better equipped to love our spouses God bless! perfect love. Yes, we may fail at times, but and cherish them on that special day on Feb. • Justin Reyes is the director of Family Christ’s endless mercy will pick us back up 14. If you haven’t been to confession in a Evangelization for the Diocese of Victoria if we allow. while, I encourage you to do so now to also in Texas. E-mail Justin at jreyes@victoria- It may seem like an odd idea, but the per- prepare for the upcoming season of Lent. diocese.org.

Blessing of New Life Sunday Readings from Feb. 14 to March 14 Birth is an elusive mystery: an everyday February 14 ~ Sixth Sunday March 7 ~ Third Sunday of Lent occurrence in nature in Ordinary Time Scrutiny Year A Readings and rural life that is Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46 Exodus 17:3-7 nonetheless marvelous Psalms 32:1-2, 5, 11 Psalms 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9 to behold. Its won- 1 Corinthians 10:31—11:1 Romans 5:1-2, 5-8 der and splendor are Mark 1:40-45 John 4:5-42 fresh with each new entrance into creation. At the appointed February 21 ~ First Sunday of Lent March 14 ~ Fourth Sunday of Lent time, a universal labor of intense energy Genesis 9:8-15 Scrutiny Year A Readings opens the womb of Nature’s gateway and Psalms 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 1 Samuel 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a ushers into the world an innocence and hope 1 Peter 3:18-22 Psalms 23: 1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6 that is always a gift. Mark 1:12-15 Ephesians 5:8-14 In a moment of revelation, we are John 9:1-41 privileged to witness and perhaps assist the February 28 ~ Second Sunday of Lent birth of the latest member of our renewing Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18 Special Days in the Catholic Church world. Hand in hand with the Creator, we Psalms 116:10, 15, 16-17, 18-19 February 17 ~ Ash Wednesday grasp the rhythm of new life, new breath Romans 8:31b-34 Joel 2:12-18 and new hope. Mark 9:2-10 Psalms 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17 In the spirit of this month’s blessing, 2 Corinthians 5:20—6:2 consider preparing a simple meal on the Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 day of the blessing. Gather with family or friends in the early evening. Light a new candle. After a moment of silence, begin For daily and Sunday readings, as well as a daily reflection video, visit www.usccb.org/bible/readings. this service. Brought to you by: Catholic Communications Campaign To see the prayers for this service, visit www.catholicrurallife.org

How to Support DSA

The Diocesan Services Appeal (DSA) is committed to fund administration offices and programs that help bring the light of Christ to each of the priorities of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in the Crossroads. Evangelization, Marriage and Fam- ily, and Human Life and Dignity are a few that Bishop Cahill has chosen as his focus. DSA also supports the retired and infirm priests, Perma- nent Diaconate, Spiritual Renewal Center, Emmaus Center, and many other ministries. To support the DSA contact Rene Garcia at 361-573-0828. The Catholic Lighthouse DIOCESE Page 13 – February 2021 Families of religious also affected by choice of vocation JANET JONES When Sister Rosario first told her family The survey of religious counted respons- • Three-fourths of responding reli- The Catholic Lighthouse she was going into the convent, Lara said, it es from 55 sisters and nuns and 57 brothers gious (76%) were born in the United States. Three-quarters of men and women who did not go over well with her mother or her and priests. The following are some of the Of those born outside the United States, the professed perpetual vows in religious orders grandmother, who cried. “Eventually, they other findings of the report: most common country of origin is Vietnam. in 2020 come from families where both loved that she was there,” Lara said. And her • On average, responding religious • On average, the respondents who parents were Catholic. No surprise there. family in Mexico celebrated that someone in report that they were 19 years old when they were born outside the United States were 24 And 89 percent of those who responded to the family would be praying for them. She first considered a vocation to religious life. years old when they first came to the United an annual survey said there was a person in said they all felt a little closer to God. • The average age of responding States and lived here for 13 years before their life that had a great influence on their The first two years Lara did not see religious of the Profession Class of 2019 is perpetual profession. choice of vocations. her sister very 38. Half of the • Nine in ten (89%) responding The survey, conducted by the Center for much, and that responding re- religious report that someone encouraged Applied Research in the Apostolate, also was the hard- ligious are age them to consider a vocation to religious life. showed that the primary influencer on the est part for her, 34 or younger. Respondents are less likely to report that they decision of men and women to join religious she said. The youngest received encouragement from their family orders is someone outside of the family. The Klek- is 24 and the members than from parish priests, friends, For parents, who chose the vocation of ars have not oldest is 71. or from a religious sister or brother. marriage, it seems like a normal expectation seen their • Seven • Three-fourths (74%) of the Pro- that your child is going to follow the same daughter since in ten (71%) fession Class of 2020 have more than one path, according to Margaret Klekar of Hal- 2019, but Sky- responding re- sibling. A quarter (25%) has one brother or lettsville whose daughter, Cherise is now a pe with her ev- ligious report sister. A third (35%) report having two or professed member of the Apostles of the In- ery Sunday if their primary three siblings. Two-fifths (39%) have four terior Life and is currently studying in Rome. possible. race or ethnic- or more siblings. Margaret’s first reaction to Cherise’s “I’m ready ity as Cauca- • Three quarters of the respondents choice of vocation? “At first, I guess, I to see her. I’m sian, Europe- (75%) are from families where both parents wasn’t sure,” she said. ready to hug an American, are Catholic. Just over four in five (84%) “I think she was kind of nervous telling her,” Robert or white. One have been Catholic since birth. Among the us,” Margaret’s husband, Robert said. said. “Tex- in ten (13%) 16% of respondents who became Catholic Ultimately they knew their daughter was ting hugs just identifies as later in life, the average age at which they in the right place. There were signs. Robert aren’t the Asian/Pacific entered the Church was 20 years old. says Cherise is always beaming and joyful same.” Islander/Na- • Nearly half of the responding reli- land would sing hymns way past when the Ultimate- tive Hawai- gious (45%) attended a Catholic elementary music stopped when she was a tiny child. ly, Lara and ian. Fewer school, which is higher than that for all He said you just think back on those kinds the Klekars than one in Catholic adults in the United States (16%). of things when they take their vows. agreed that ten identi- These respondents are also more likely Christi Lara, whose sister, Sister Maria they have fies as Afri- than other U.S. Catholics to have attended del Rosario Resendez, joined the Incarnate gained a kin- Bishop Brendan Cahill celebrated World Day of Prayer for can/African a Catholic high school (38 of responding Word and Blessed Sacrament Sisters in Vic- ship with the Consecrated Life at 9 a.m. Mass on Feb. 7 at the Cathedral American/ religious, compared to 8% of U.S. adult toria, said she likes having a religious in the congregations of Our Lady of Victory in Victoria. black (7%) Catholics) and much more likely to have family. “It just makes you feel … special,” who are the and one in attended a Catholic college (38% of respond- she said. “It’s humbling. I don’t know how new families twenty (5%) ing religious, compared to 5% of U.S. adult to explain it.” of their loved ones. They both said they identifies as Hispanic/Latino(a). Catholics). Lara said when her sister was discerning have enjoyed the kindness, thoughtfulness religious life she would sometimes go with and welcoming of the religious communities. her to encounter different communities. It “I’m just so proud of her,” Margaret The Emmaus Center was obvious that the religious life is where said of Cherise. “This is her calling. She’s Incarnate Word & she was supposed to be, she said. at home.” The Emmaus Center provides Blessed Sacrament Join in listening to Bishop Brendan Cahill every third Tuesday individual, couple, Gift Shop of the month at 6:30 a.m. on Relevant Radio Morning Air with family, adolescent (361) 575-7111 John Harper. Listeners can call in with questions or comments. and children’s 1101 NE Water St. You can listen to past podcasts online. counseling as well as specialized (in Old Victoria) Victoria, TX 77901 Relevant Radio® has been helping people bridge the gap support groups from a Catholic between faith and everyday life through informative, entertaining, Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and interactive programming twenty-four hours per day, seven days per perspective. Bibles, Books, Rosaries, Medals week. The Relevant Radio network is currently serving the Church with 127 stations For more information or to Statues, Baptism & Wedding Items reaching 39 states, with a potential listening audience of 133 million people. Programming schedule an appointment, please Inspirational Gifts can be heard worldwide via streaming audio at relevantradio.com and on the mobile app. call (361) 212-0830. The Catholic Lighthouse Page 14 —February 2021 DIOCESE ‘Tolton’ production coming to diocese “Tolton: From Slave to Priest,” a 75-miute open to the public. live multimedia drama about the first African Jim Coleman is the actor playing the American priest is coming to the Diocese of role of Father Tolton. He is best known for Victoria this fall. More information will be his role of Roger Parker in the Nickelodeon released when a date is set. show, “My Brother and Me.” The diocese already had contracted with “Father Tolton’s story needs to be told,” Saint Luke Productions to have four perfor- Coleman was quoted in a press release from mances this month, but due to COVID-19 Saint Luke Productions. “As a black man, spikes, the diocese and the production com- this very important part of history is some- pany agreed it would be best to postpone the thing that I want the world to hear about. I production. Two performances were set for truly feel blessed to be one to share Father Actor Jim Coleman portrays Father Augustus Tolton in a new drama about the priest’s school audiences only and two were to be Augustus Tolton with all who will listen!” life, produced by Saint Luke Productions. Born into slavery, Tolton shattered many barriers

BY MONTENEGRO FLYNN unanimously recognized his “virtuous and life is an example of faithful commitment have received from others,” said Auxiliary Catholic News Service heroic life.” Two steps of the process remain: to justice that can inspire today’s Catholics. Bishop Joseph N. Perry of Chicago, arch- WASHINGTON — Father Augustus beatification and canonization. “The church really, truly formed him diocesan postulator of the sainthood cause. Tolton, who in 1886 became the first identi- Father Tolton served as a parish priest in because they really saved him. They took Father Tolton was born in Missouri in fied Black priest ordained for the United Chicago, where he died in 1897 at age 43. him from the ravages of his background and 1854. While he was still a child, his mother States, challenged the status quo to bring Last year in August, an online presenta- made something out of him, and gave him escaped slavery with her children, opening about social change. tion called “Tolton’s Legacy: A Roadmap to a chance in life that otherwise he would not the door to a Catholic education that later Father Tolton lived a life of joy, rooted Unity,” was organized by the Tolton Ambas- flourished into a vocation. As his repeated in his desire to help others and humbly work sador Corps, a nationwide group of Catholics efforts to enter seminaries in the U.S. were to achieve equality and justice for all, said commissioned to spread awareness about rebuffed, Father Tolton pursued his priestly participants of a panel discussion about the the significance of Father Tolton’s cause for formation in Rome and was ordained a priest priest’s legacy. sainthood. there in 1886. The Archdiocese of Chicago opened Panelists addressed lessons from the life After his ordination, he was sent back to Father Tolton’s sainthood cause in 2010. of the African American priest who struggled the U.S. to serve in Illinois, becoming the Pope Francis declared him “venerable” in with slavery, racism and injustice, but per- Looking For Some Fun? first African American priest to do mission- June 2019 after a theological commission severed because of his faith. They said his ary work in his own country. Throughout his Bus Tour: Noah’s Ark, ministry, Father Tolton encountered wide- Nashville & Branson spread racism, but he remained focused on June 2-10 2021 shattering barriers of prejudice and hatred. Kathleen Dorsey Bellow, director of the Ireland Israel Institute of Black Catholic Studies at Xavier July 19-29 October University in New Orleans, called for greater 2021 2021 access to faith formation and active involve- ment of parishioners in the life of the church. “If we’re going to have a thriving clergy, if we’re going to have religious, then we as laypeople have to be partners with them. We have to be recruiting them, we have to be supporting them, we have to make sure ~ Germany & Austria ~ we stand up for them when they run into Christmas Markets hardships,” Bellow said. December 2021 Bishop Perry invited families and parish Call or email for more details. communities to nurture vocations like the religious people who encouraged Father 334 Jurek Road Tolton to consider his vocation. Port Lavaca, TX 77979 “Regardless of what is dished out to (361) 552.2695 or (361) 920.3216 us,” Bishop Perry said, “we have to return email: [email protected] respect and love and that in itself will save www.pathwayswithpatti.com the world.” The Catholic Lighthouse EVENTS Page 15 — February 2021

Meals • Picnics and More Ministries • Ongoing Activities

February All Ministries and Ongoing Activities at this time are scheduled to change with the pandemic. Before attending a meeting please call ahead to verify that the meeting is being held.

ACTS Retreats–Anyone needing any information regarding Engaged Encounter 2021 Dates: April 16-18, June 4-6, Lent begins ACTS Retreats in the diocese should email dovactschapter@ September 17-19, November 12-14. Registration is on a victoriadiocese.org. first-come, first-served basis. Fee must accompany regis- on Catholic Family Services –To find Catholic organizations tration form. For information, call 361-573-0828 or visit Ash Wednesday that focus on family, visit the Catholic Association of www.victoriadiocese.org. Catholic Family Life Ministers at http://www.nacflm.org. Gabriel Project of the Crossroads – Helps women expe- February 17 Courage – Ministers to persons with same-sex attractions riencing a crisis pregnancy as an alternative to abortion. and their loved ones. The ministry also has an outreach, Victoria: Meetings are the second Tuesday of each month EnCourage, which ministers to relatives, spouses, and at 6:30 p.m. at 101 W. Convent. Light supper included. friends of persons with same-sex attractions. It is a Roman For angel workshop/training dates, contact Lisa Kainer El Campo–St. Philip the Apostle School Virtual Dinner, Catholic Apostolate endorsed by the Pontifical Council for 361-676-3264 or [email protected]; DeWitt Dance and Auction on Feb. 20. Visit their Facebook page the Family. For information, visit http://www.couragerc.net. County: Meetings are the third Monday of each month at StPhilipCatholicSchool or website https://stphilipschool. Crisis Pregnancy Center of Victoria – A sister organization during the school year at 5:30 p.m. at the Yorktown Public org/. For more information, call the school office at 979- to the Gabriel Project staffed by volunteers that offers help Library, 103 W. Main St. Coordinators for DeWitt Chap- 543-2901. to girls and women who find themselves in a difficult situa- ter are Wayne and Margie Smith 361-491-0067; Lavaca Victoria–A silent retreat planned for Lent. “From Ashes to tion due to an unplanned pregnancy. Office located at 1501 County: Meets 6 p.m. (during the school year), contact Glory” is a silent Lenten retreat set for Feb. 25-28 at the E. Red River, is open 1-4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays Julie Kubena Lavaca County Coordinator at 361-798-3579 Spiritual Renewal Center. The Rev. Michael Rother, pastor and Fridays. Free pregnancy tests offered and medical for dates and location. of St. Phillip the Apostle Catholic Church in El Campo, referrals are made for prenatal care. New volunteers are Grief Ministry – An ongoing Grief Group meets at the Holy along with Deacon Larry Hoelscher of St. Philip and his welcome. For information call 361-575-6171. Family Church conference room in Victoria at 7 p.m., on wife, Patricia Hoelscher who is a spiritual director for Emmaus Center – Offers individual, couple, family, ado- the first and third Thursdays each month. Adults who have the Emmaus Counseling Center in Victoria, are leading lescent and children’s counseling, as well as specialized experienced the death of a loved one may attend (after the retreat. All rooms will be private, and the organizers support groups. Spiritual direction is also available if three months have passed). Call Sharon at 361-578-7572 are following strict COVID-19 procedures. Cost of the requested. To make an appointment, call 361-212-0830. before attending. retreat is $225 and includes seven meals. Payment can i.d.9:16 Ministry – For adults in their 20s and 30s, single or be made to St. Philip Catholic Church, c/o Deacon Larry married. Held at Holy Family in Victoria every first Thursday Hoelscher, 304 West Church St., El Campo, TX 77437. of the month. Starts with 6 p.m. Mass followed by dinner More information and the registration form are available School Registrations and a talk live streamed from the headquarters in Michigan by visiting www.stphilipapostle.org/faith-formation, or by and fellowship. Childcare available to those who RSVP. It calling Patricia Hoelscher 979-257-9984. Diocese of Victoria–New student registration is happening is open to all young adults of the diocese. For information, now or soon to happen in our Catholic schools throughout or to RSVP for events, e-mail [email protected]. Incarnate Word Prayer Group – Praise and worship 7:30-9 March the diocese. Call your local school for dates and times to enroll your children for a Catholic education. p.m. Mondays in the auditorium at Incarnate Word Convent, 1101 N.E. Water St. For information, contact Sr. Louise Hillje – St. Procopius Spring Festival March 7 at the parish Marie Jones at 361-575-7111 or [email protected]. hall. A fried chicken, white rice, gravy and corn dinner Mothers of Grace – A new mothers’ group at the Cathedral will be served starting at 11a.m. at $10 each (plate-to-go What’s on the web? of Our Lady of Victory. For information, contact Leslie only). There will be a raffle drawing after meal served. Book at [email protected] or visit their Facebook Weekly Wednesday Webchats page at www.facebook.com/Mothersofgraceolv/. Natural Family Planning – NFP is the only church- Each week Justin Reyes, director of Family Services, April approved form of family planning. For the CREIGTON posts an interview with someone in our diocese. Sometimes MODEL Fertility Care System (CrMS) featuring NaPro he will interview a member of the clergy, and sometimes it TECHNOLOGY™ contact Susanne Koch in Wharton at Victoria – Our Lady of Sorrows and Santísima Trinidad 2021 is the personal story of one of the faithful. One Wednesday 505-710-0903 or [email protected]. Also in Raffle Sale will be held April 18, at Our Lady of Sorrows a month he will post “Cinco Preguntas!” a Spanish-language the Cuero area contact, Ashley Rodriguez at 361-293-0700 after the 2 p.m. Mass. Tickets are $5 each for a chance at interview featuring a local minister. 30 prizes (need not be present to win). To purchase tickets or [email protected]. Raphael’s Refuge – To build and maintain a memorial in they will be sold before and after Mass, at the Rectory, Bite-Sized Catholic or call Louis Rodriguez 361-648-3971, Cruzy Cervantes honor of babies, born and unborn. It is a 501(c)(3) non- Check out this new Facebook page that helps explain Ca- profit organization located in Flatonia. Peer counseling 361-676-6258, Susie Verver 361-218-8320, or Mercedes tholicism a bite at a time. This was created to help Catholics Robles 361-218-5839. and spiritual direction are available for those suffering a share their faith with others who may be seeking answers. It loss of a baby due to miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death is a good way to engage in conversations about what we, as or abortion. For information, contact Midge Elam at 361- Do you have any Catholics, believe. Visit www.facebook.com/bitesizedcatholic. 865-3021, 361-258-1514, or visit www.raphaelsrefuge.org. Retrouvaille – Retrouvaille, meaning “rediscovery,” is a calendar of events for the Year of the Family Prayer Jar marriage-healing ministry offered in the diocese to couples Lighthouse? Did you know we have a prayer jar for special inten- in difficult marriages. Contact John and Jennifer Vincent tions during this Year of the Family? Place your inten- at [email protected] or 361-580-2770; or call 800- tions in the prayer jar by going to https://forms.gle/ 470-2230; or visit www.helpourmarriage.org or www. Submit to UGR46RC739AntJbp8. Visit www.victoriadiocese.org to retrouvaille.org. [email protected] learn more about the Year of the Family resources. The Catholic Lighthouse Page 16 — February 2021 DIOCESE Virtual 5K for moms in need has wide participation

Every deanery in the Diocese of Victo- John Bosco, Vanderbilt; St. Joseph, Inez; St. ria had people signed up to participate in Mary, Victoria; St. Michael, Cuero; St. Peter, a virtual 5K to benefit the new Bethlehem Blessing; St. Philip, El Campo; Sts. Cyril & Maternity Home in Victoria. Methodius, Shiner; St. Michael, Weimar; and At press time on Jan. 29, more than 100 Queen of Peace, Sweet Home. people had registered and raised more than Bethlehem Maternity Home and First $2,000, according to Shannon Thomas, English Lutheran Church in Victoria also chairman of the Year of the Family commit- had representation. tee in the diocese. The event took place Jan. The maternity home, a venture of the 21-29 and participants could sign up at any Gabriel Project of the Crossroads, recently time and complete the 5K at any time during found a property and is undergoing renova- Susie Orsak, right, sent in this photo that eight-day period. tions to accommodate pregnant women in of her family finishing the virtual 5K Winning parishes were to be announced crisis so that they have a safe, supportive to benefit the Bethlehem Maternity by Friday, Feb. 5. The parish with the great- home when they bring their new babies into Home in Victoria. The screen shot est participation and the parish that raised the world. shows their route. With her are her the most money each will receive a travel- Barbara Williams, a board member of the daughter, Kimberly Orsak Eide, ing trophy – a statue of Mary, Mother of the Gabriel Project, said the home is currently and grandchildren, Jacob, Parker Unborn. looking for staff members – full and part and Jaxson. They are members of Parishes represented include: Holy Cross, time. For job description and other informa- St. Philip the Apostle in El Campo. East Bernard; Holy Family, Victoria; Our tion, contact Lisa Howard, director, at How- (Contributed Photo) Lady of Lourdes, Victoria; Our Lady of Vic- [email protected], or 361-866-5027. tory, Victoria; Sacred Heart, Hallettsville; St.

Local podcasts can bring edification to a busy day Continued from pg. 1 souls of families on the go. ing to married couples and seeking to build discuss other aspects of theology and disciple- Reyes also plans to have “special guests” The first podcast, an introduction to the up the sacrament of matrimony. When I do, ship and will be a regular feature available at least once a month on the Wednesday DOV Family Podcast series, refers to the I discover something new about myself, my through the podcast. Webchat/podcast. The first guest scheduled “Marriage Minute,” as Father Gary’s spot ministry and how I can better minister to my Father Jacob said he is open to discussing was the Rev. Bryan Heyer, pastor of Sts. Cyril was originally called, but the segments may spouse, the Church. It is a vital component anything from a Catholic point of view in and Methodius in Shiner, whose segment was or may not be within the 60-second mark, so of who I am and hopes of help- broadcast on Jan. 27. it is officially a “moment.” what I do every ing people see It was in September, Reyes said, that he “He’s such an amazing wealth of knowl- day.” things “with a realized he needed to add a new level to his edge on marriage,” Reyes said. It’s been a Catholic imagi- family evangelization ministry. He was learn- Father Gary said he was apprehensive little more than nation that will ing about podcasting at home through some about doing a podcast at first because it is a year since then inform of his personal projects and decided to bring new to him, but he has become enthusiastic Justin Reyes their living. the idea to work. Because the podcasts are about the good he could do using this format. joined the Dio- “I think available on many platforms, it could reach “I hope to reach as many couples as cese of Victoria people want, a wider audience. “Different demographics possible. My passion is working with mar- staff and started among many use different platforms,” he said. ried couples and assisting them in building growing the Of- things, secu- “In fishing for men, you have to try a stronger marriages. In doing so, I truly believe fice of Family rity, confi- bunch of different lures before finding the this will strengthen the gift of family life Evangelization. dence, clarity, right one. Right now I think we’re just casting throughout our diocese and beyond,” Father He has devel- transcendence, to see if we get any bites,” according to Father Gary said. “Some of the topics are based on oped several strength, joy, Jacob. “Hopefully, we can be of some assis- the particular liturgical season, while others new ways to and peace. Ev- tance to families and at the very least provide are inspired by the couples I work with in my evangelize and eryone is look- some positive content in their news feed.” parish and counseling ministry. To be honest, solicits feedback to figure out what works ing for it in different ways. But the only One The DOV Family Podcast was announced sometimes I read a particular Gospel, view best. His Wednesday Webchats have been who can provide it to the degree which we as a gift to the diocese at Christmastime. “I something on television or read a newspaper popular, especially when he interviews parish need is Jesus, who reveals Himself fully in think this will fill a need,” he said. “Hope- or Internet article and I am inspired to develop priests. “I noticed that people loved hearing the Catholic Church. I think people need Him. fully these will be good conversation starters it into an article for married couples.” from their pastors,” he said. Really, I think most even want Him but just for families.” And though Father Gary already has And some of his listeners suggested the don’t realize it yet. As far as topics, the big The series can be downloaded to a smart- many jobs – vicar general, chancellor, pastor, podcasts. one would be the basic Gospel message in all phone via Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, counselor, director of the Emmaus Center Two other Victoria-area priests, the Rev. its various forms: God is real, He loves you, Spotify and most other platforms, viewed on for counseling – this is not something he Kristopher Fuchs, pastor of St. Mary Catholic He sent His Son to free you, and He wants to the DOV Family Evangelization Facebook perceives as another item on his to-do list. “I Church, and the Rev. Jacob Koether, pastor walk with you every day, guiding you deeper Page or YouTube, or listeners can go to https:// thoroughly enjoy working with and minister- of Our Lady of Sorrows have teamed up to into light and new life,” Father Jacob said. www.buzzsprout.com/1404520.