WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | 10-23, 2020 | Volume 81, Number 5

Scenes of devastation after an earthquake in Puerto Rico, including a destroyed home is seen after an earthquake in Guanica, left; victims resting at a makeshift camp outside their apartment building in Yauco, center; shelves are seen toppled at a market in Guanica, right. ( | CNS) Puerto Rico reels under successive earthquakes DENNIS SADOWSKI Father Camacho told Catholic News of the quakes. Gonzalez Medina of Ponce, where The company reported damaged Catholic News Service Service Jan. 7. “What we fear is that Police in Ponce said a 73-year- the cathedral experienced some to one of its main power plants near we continue having these earth- old man died when a wall fell on damage. Mass was canceled Jan. 7 the earthquake’s epicenter, but that WASHINGTON | At least one quakes. If we have bigger ones, the him, reported El Nuevo Dia, Puerto at the cathedral and numerous par- technicians were working to re- person has died and one Catholic damage is going to be very, very, Rico’s largest newspaper. ishes across the diocese, he said. store electricity to other parts of the church was destroyed by the latest very bad.” Immaculate Conception Church “I talked with a priest in charge island. of a series of earthquakes to rock Catholic Charities USA estab- in Guayanilla was severely dam- of social ministry in Ponce,” Father Archbishop Robert Gonzalez Puerto Rico. lished a donation page on its website, aged, Mayor Nelson Torres Yordan Camacho told CNS. “He told me Nieves of San Juan tweeted soon A magnitude 6.4 quake shook catholiccharitiesusa.org. Catholic told a local television station. Pho- even himself he is not traveling to after the quake Jan. 7: “A 6.7-point people awake at 4:24 a.m. local time Extension is seeking donations to tos posted by El Nuevo Dia showed see what is happening (in the dio- earthquake has just shaken all of Jan. 7, less than 24 hours after a help with pastoral needs at catholic residents removing the church’s un- cese) because they are afraid there Puerto Rico that is now without magnitude 5.8 temblor shook the is- extension.org/relief. damaged tabernacle to safety. could be more ruts in the road and light. Prayer, serenity, solidarity land in the predawn hours of Jan. 6. “We stand in solidarity once Father Camacho said the church their lives are in danger. and charity are important. We are Aftershocks ranging in magni- again on the front lines offering our had survived the island’s major Puerto Rico has experienced a one family!” tude from 3.8 to 6 were felt through- support and comfort to those en- earthquake of 1918, only to be series of minor earthquakes begin- Father Camacho said if more out the island following the early during the terror and destruction shaken apart by the Jan. 7 temblor. ning the night of Dec. 28-29 leading powerful earthquakes occur, he morning temblor, reported the U.S. of these earthquakes,” Father Jack “The only church that remained to the major shakers, reported the feared damage in the rural moun- Geological Survey. Wall, the agency’s president, said in on the street (in 1918) was that,” he U.S. Geological Survey. tainous center of the island, where The continuous shaking has tak- a statement. said. “Then 100 years later, with The most recent large quake housing is less sturdy, would be se- en a psychological toll, said Father The latest earthquake sent peo- this earthquake, it is the one that knocked out power to much of the vere. As for an immediate response, Enrique Camacho, executive direc- ple scurrying from their homes into fell down. island, including the capital of San Caritas of Puerto Rico is in a holding tor of Caritas of Puerto Rico, which the streets from Ponce, the island’s “That’s really sad because it was Juan. The Puerto Rico Electric Pow- pattern. is affiliated with Catholic Charities second-largest city, westward along a very historical monument, a tour- er Authority reported that all of its “We are waiting to see what are USA. the island’s southern coast to the ist place,” he added. power plants went offline after its the damages,” the priest said. “We “Right now we are helping the towns of Guayanilla, Guanica, Yau- Father Camacho said he had “auto protection” systems were ac- are willing to help people recon- people with emotional support,” co and Lajas, all near the epicenter been in contact with Bishop Ruben tivated. struct as soon as possible.” n Kenyan Catholic leaders alarmed at increase in terror attacks CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE tranquility in the region,” Father ing further attacks. In the past, Wilybard Lagho, vicar general of al-Shabab has targeted churches, , Kenya | Catholic lead- the Mombasa Archdiocese, told Christians, public places and gov- ers in Kenya are sounding an alarm Catholic News Service. “I think the ernment installations. after a terror attack killed three war on terror is redefining itself in On Jan. 2, militants struck a bus Americans and forced local people the global scale. We are likely to see convoy, killing at least three people. to flee. dormant terror cells reawakening.” Father Nicholas Mutua, justice The clerics feared the attack in On Jan. 5, al-Shabab, the Soma- and peace coordinator in the Ga- Manda Bay in Lamu County — lia-based al-Qaida affiliate in East rissa Diocese, which covers some which occurred amid increasing Africa, raided a military base in parts Lamu County, said the church tension in the Middle East — could Manda Bay, killing one U.S service is extremely worried about its clergy be an act of revenge linked to the re- member and two Department of in the area. cent killing of the top Iranian mili- Defense contractors. Two other “They are hitting soft targets tary leader. It also could be retalia- Americans were injured, said the (which includes the churches). I tion for U.S. airtstrikes targeting al- U.S Africa Command. think this is about revenge. It’s a Shabab fighters after a truck bomb U.S forces use the military base time bomb, and the government in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, to provide training and offer coun- must act fast to ensure the people Smoke rises from a military base in Lamu County, Kenya, Jan. 5, 2020, killed at least 79 people. terterrorism support to East African are safe,” said Father Mutua, adding after the Somali extremist group al-Shabab said it attacked the base. “We are condemning the attack, countries. Kenyans reportedly fled that church officials were constant- One American service member and two U.S. defense contractors were which has disrupted peace and the area in large numbers, fear- ly monitoring the developments. n killed. (XINHUA | CNS) WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Jan. 10-23, 2020 FLORIDACatholic ORLANDO DIOCESE A family’s new home, and their new smiles Catholic Charities provides home in time for Christmas

Editor’s note: The full name of the housing rent and renovation), and the Catholic family profiled in this story is not Foundation of Central Florida, Catholic Chari- used to respect their privacy. ties of Central Florida purchased seven homes in the Orlando, Rosemont and Pine Hills area, GLENDA MEEKINS according to Gary Tester, president of Catholic of the Florida Catholic staff Charities. Tester explained the houses had sat empty, so ORLANDO | Jess spent nearly 10 years in a the City of Orlando deeded them to the Catholic very difficult relationship. Over the course of agency. Those in need register through the city, that time, she had two daughters. She could not which then links them to Catholic Charities. go anywhere unaccompanied. She could not go Through Resurrection Property Management to college. Services, a Catholic Charities company, poten- But four years ago she found the courage to tial tenants are vetted and Catholic Charities leave. Her daughters were just 4 and 5 at the becomes their landlord. They are now working time. On Dec. 20, she received a surprise that to acquire other homes in neighboring munici- was a long time coming — keys to her new home palities. thanks to Catholic Charities of Central Florida. “Our ministry is to provide affordable hous- Above, Gary Now ages 8 and 9, the girls approached their ing so it’s a great deal for us … This is a huge Tester, president new house with excitement, running up the running start,” Tester said. “We believe in the of Catholic Charities of sidewalk in anticipation. As the trio made their dignity of each human life and this is a family Central Florida, way to the front door, their faces transformed that deserves to be loved. Our opportunity to left, Jess into giant smiles of astonishment. Laughter give them this home and get them settled before and her two mixed with shrieks of shock filled the air. The Christmas is a beautiful gift.” daughters, sit last thing they expected was that it would also Of the seven homes recently deeded to Cath- with Adriana be furnished. olic Charities, Jess’ house was the first to be Valencia, Jess first reached out to Catholic Charities completed. director of several months ago. At first, she had moved to “It was a great feeling to see them at Catholic property her mother’s home. She then went to live in her Charities as they signed the paperwork, then management sister’s apartment, where she and her daughters to walk up behind the girls as they came up services, right, shared one bedroom for the past year and a half. the sidewalk,” Tester said. “To see Jess and the Dec. 20 after She moved to Orlando to fulfill her dream of go- girls as they entered their new home for the first giving Jess the ing to college, but the strains of commuting to time, and then to see the little ones run around keys to her and from Cocoa Beach while working made her the yard.” new home. put school on hold once again. She then focused As the girls went from room to room, squeal- At left, the on saving money so she and her children could ing with delight and checking every nook and family enters have a place of their own, “a sanctuary” as she cranny, Adriana Valencia, Catholic Chari- the home for put it. It had been years since the family had ties property management services director, the first time. their own space. grinned. She and her crew had shopped, picked When staffers at Catholic Charities first met up the furniture, set it up and cleaned the house Jess, she was anxious. Jess recalled those days in expectation that the application would be ap- with the Florida Catholic. As she did, she began proved. to cry. “I was numb for a really long time,” she “There is no better gift for the holidays than said. “I finally decided to leave because I was to bestow on another family their own home. tired of being unhappy and I wanted a different It’s just a great privilege. I’m a little over- life for my kids.” whelmed sometimes to be able to be a part of She was familiar with Catholic Charities as this,” Valencia said. “I was thinking about the her hometown parish worked with them often. situation she was in and where she was. Then “Catholic Charities has actually been a pretty seeing her daughters on the carpet, spreading big part of my life,” she said. “They just helped a their arms and making carpet angels — they lot growing up.” didn’t have room, so for them to sit down and The young mother hoped for help with an take all this in is unexplainable. I can tell by apartment. Maybe her veterinary technician their actions, the children feel free. They have job would provide enough for a small place. She room to stretch and we are happy to provide it was used to sacrifice and living conservatively. to them.” She went through the affordable housing appli- Meanwhile, Jess kept hugging her daughters. cation process and hoped to move in early 2020. “I picture my future being a lot brighter, hap- Then she got the call five days before Christ- pier, a lot more stress just gone. I know that, for mas. my daughters, this will definitely make them a Thanks to a partnership with the City of Or- lot happier. Seeing their smiling little faces will lando, the Department of Housing and Urban make me 1,000 times happier. Catholic Chari- Development, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, ties has given me everything—everything I Gary Tester and Jess watch Jess’s youngest daughter spread her arms as she SHIP (a federally funded program to help with could have hoped for.” n runs around her new back yard. (PHOTOS BY GLENDA MEEKINS) Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/floridacatholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY A2 New translation to the Order of released

GLENDA MEEKINS est son last summer. They realize lar to the full Baptism rite, but the THE PROCESS OF TRANSLATION of the Florida Catholic staff the weight of their own duties in the language always makes clear that Sacrament. the child has already been bap- Wonder why it takes so long for the for Divine Worship and Discipline of ORLANDO | It’s been nearly “We know we are the ones set- tized,” explained Rita Thiron, exec- Church to translate rites? The follow- the Sacraments at the Vatican, which 50 years in the making, but be pre- ting the example,” Ashley said. “We utive director for the Federation of ing is how a rite and its translation gives a final approval or “confirma- pared for something new the next are there to teach our children — to Diocesan Liturgical Commissions. come to life. The editio typica of a tio.” time a Baptism is celebrated. lead them toward Christ, toward “It is not ‘necessary’ since the child liturgical text is promulgated in Latin, The president of the conference According to the Catechism of heaven. It is our biggest goal.” is certainly baptized, but it does al- the official language of the Church. then issues a “Decree of Publication” the , “Holy Baptism Even though she was involved in low the parents to present the child Ordo Baptismi parvulorum (The allowing various publishers to print it is the basis of the whole Christian the Church when her children were to the community of faith and al- Order of Baptism of Children) was first and distribute it. life, the gateway to life in the Spirit born, their births, and more signifi- lows the community to welcome revised soon after the Second Vatican The Ordo Baptismi Parvulo- (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the cantly their Baptism, strengthened its newest member. In addition, Council in 1969. rum was revised again in 1973. This door which gives access to the other her faith. “It allowed me to explore official godparents may not have Each conference of bishops has the “second typical edition” (editio typi- sacraments.” (1213). Because of the my own faith so I know I am teach- been present at the birth… perhaps right and duty to translate the text cal altera) went through a similar sacrament’s great importance, it is ing my children correctly,” she said. nurses and doctors were the wit- into the language spoken by their process of translation, but this time no surprise the Church has taken “I will be able to explain (the faith) nesses.” She noted, here, “other rites people – English, Spanish, Chinese, it took several decades for the work its time finalizing updates to a new to my children in ways they’ll un- are supplied, such as the anointing German, etc. The U.S. Conference to be completed in both English and translation of the Order of Baptism derstand as they grow up, meet with chrism, clothing with a white of Catholic Bishops first entrusts Spanish. of Children. them where they are. It’s allowed garment, and presentation of the the translation to the International The Spanish translation was re- Commission on English in the Lit- Although, priests have always me to dig a little deeper so I can un- white candle.” leased in 2013. The English translation urgy (ICEL), which is underwritten by (for the dioceses of the ) been able to give an introduction derstand as well.” Publishers began printing and sixteen English-speaking countries. of their own making, a sample in- As the Catechism states, taking orders for the new transla- was approved in April 2019 by the This group of bishops and scholars Vatican. troduction is now provided. The “Through Baptism we are freed tion in December, preparing for translate the text and prepare a draft rite also addresses more clearly from sin and reborn as sons of God; its use beginning Feb. 2, the Feast for the conference. The bishops review Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, past- the responsibility of parents and we become members of Christ, are of the Presentation. “The Church ICEL’s translation twice and may make president of the U.S. conference, godparents and the role of all pa- incorporated into the Church and usually uses a significant date in some amendments to the work of the issued a Decree of Publication June rishioners in supporting the family. made sharers in her mission…” the liturgical year to promulgate translators. 10, 2019, the memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary. That decree contained the An excerpt of the new text states, “… (1213). Ashley described the Bap- something new,” Thiron said. “This At their plenary assemblies (in No- we offer you our support in raising tism of her children as a factor in date was chosen to reflect that, just 2020 dates on which the text may be vember or June) all the bishops vote used in the liturgy (Feb. 2) and when your children in the practice of the bringing home that mission of as Mary and Joseph presented their on the final translation. If it passes by faith. Therefore, brothers and sis- evangelization. “We want to lead by child in the Temple, mothers and fa- it must be used (April 12). Publishers a two-thirds vote of the U.S., Latin-rite were scheduled to release the new thers are presenting their children ters, let us now prepare ourselves example and so they have people to bishops, it is sent to the Congregation books Jan. 6. to participate in this celebration, look up to and learn from.” for Baptism.” listening to God’s word, praying for In cases of emergency when Thiron also emphasized the these children and their families, parents must rush to baptize their beauty of the praenotanda (or new and one text when several children Although parishes may begin and renewing our commitment to baby, this translation also updates introduction): “It contains rich are to be baptized).” Good news for using the rite in early February, all the Lord and to His people.” language for “Welcoming the Child theology,” she said. “The USA edi- the people in the pews, they will not are required to use the new trans- The assistance means so much to the Church”, to be celebrated tion also contains two appendices have to learn new parts. “This rite is lation on Easter Sunday, April 12, to Ashley and Ben Anderson, pa- once the infant’s health becomes which detail how the rite is to be cel- not as drastically changed as that of 2020. After that, no other transla- rishioners of Holy Spirit Parish in more stable. This is not new, simply ebrated within Mass (one to be used the Roman Missal,” explained Thi- tion may be used in the United Mims, who baptized their young- slightly modified. “The rite is simi- when one child is to be baptized ron. States. n Orlando Diocese welcomes two new religious sisters

ELIZABETH WILSON Sister Nyirasuko had a similar homes, whenever possible. served in a nursing home and fun- Florida Catholic correspondent experience. Born in Rwanda, she “She knew very well that if you draised for schools, hospitals, and moved in the 1990s in the midst of educate a woman then you educate housing in South America and Afri- ORLANDO | There is something the country’s civil war and ended the whole family and thus the na- ca; and most recently, Orange Park, remarkable about the smiling faces up in Zambia. She soon began at- tion and, in this way, she strength- Florida, where she worked at area of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy tending a parish where Missionar- ened the Church. She tirelessly hospitals and prepared children to Family that immediately touches ies of the Holy Family served and educated young women,” Sister Ny- receive first Communion. the hearts of the people they en- she was struck by their “extraordi- irasuko explained. Sister Urbanczyk began her min- counter. At least that was the case nary joy.” Today, the sisters, who number istry as a religion teacher at three for Sister Rose Urbanczyk and Sis- “I wanted to have that too,” Sister around 350, serve in Poland, Be- different cities in Poland before ter Immaculée Nyirasuko, two sis- Nyirasuko said. “I would say hello larus, Russia, , Zambia, Tanza- moving to Wisconsin where worked ters who recently began serving the after Mass and then one day they nia, Kenya and in the United States with young children and later Illi- Diocese of Orlando. invited me to visit their convent in Wisconsin, Illinois and Florida. nois where she continued to teach For Sister Urbanczyk, born and and behold once I saw what they Their focus is mainly education, and work at St. Mary’s Hospital. raised in Poland, all it took was see- were doing, I fell in love with them health care and parish work. In The sisters arrived in the Diocese ing an advertisement for the order more and more. After high school, fact, both Sister Nyirasuko and Sis- of Orlando this past August. Given in a magazine for her to know that I wanted nothing more than join ter Urbanczyk studied nursing after their backgrounds and the vari- her future would be living as one of them.” joining the order. Sister Nyirasuko ous places their vocation has taken them. The Missionary Sisters of the is currently serving as a registered them, they have especially enjoyed Missionary Sisters of the Holy “One Sunday, I was reading the Holy Family was founded in 1905 in nurse and is also a family nurse witnessing the diversity present in Family Sister Rose Urbanczyk, magazine and came across the ad Belarus by Blessed Bolesława Ma- practitioner. Sister Urbanczyk, the Catholic Church in Florida. left, and Sister Immaculee containing the name of the congre- ria Lament, beatified in 1992. She though currently serving as a mid- “I’ve met with such kindness Nyirasuko. (COURTESY) gation, their address, and very short founded the congregation with a dle school teacher and chaplain at and openness from people who information about it. At that mo- charism for unity during a time Holy Redeemer Catholic School in immediately embraced our pres- who added that she also enjoys the ment, God tugged on my heart and when the Catholic Church was Kissimmee, is also a certified nurs- ence here. What I was really taken warm weather immensely after so I understood they will become my persecuted in Eastern Europe. ing assistant. back by was the diversity in the lo- many years in cold climates. family,” Sister Urbanczyk recalled. Her conviction was to educate and Since joining the order in 2000, cal churches, so many people of Sister Nyirasuko agreed saying, “It was somewhere in the middle of strengthen people in their Catholic Sister Nyirasuko has served in Zam- different ethnicities and cultures, “I love Florida. The Church is so di- my discernment, halfway through faith. Back then, Catholicism was bia working in the convent kitch- yet coming together in prayer and verse that I feel right at home. The my high school; I joined the order forbidden so she provided religious ens and teaching Sunday school service. How beautiful! I really trea- rich cultures of different ethnicities right after graduating.” education underground, in people’s children; in Wisconsin where she sure that,” said Sister Urbanczyk, is unbeatable.” n A3 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020

have grasped you by the hand; I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from ‘I confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness.’ — Is 42:6-7 Gift of Christmas is learning how we are to live FLORIDA My Sisters and Brothers in son of Christmas. The season of people. Jesus’ Baptism will show we are to live. He humbles himself Christ: Christmas is the feast of the in- the right relationship between God to our humanity and begins by Catholic What strong and beautiful carnation; that is God becoming and the people. Though Jesus has participating in his own Baptism; DIOCESE OF ORLANDO words we hear proclaimed in flesh in the person of Jesus. During no need of repentance, he stands to show us the importance of sac- Vol. 81, No. 5 Scripture on the feast of this season, we celebrate in solidarity with all of us that do ramental living. Again, he affirms the Baptism of the Lord. the birth of Christ into our need to repent. Jesus’ divine pres- us in his gentle manner and by 50 East Robinson St. Think of the imagery from world and into our hearts, ence is revealed by the opening of his vocation, offers us his light to P.O. Box 1800 the words of the prophet the heavens and he is called be- guide our path. He does not live as Orlando, FL 32802-1800 and reflect on the gift of sal- 407-246-4800 Fax 407-246-4942 Isaiah — “I have grasped vation that is born with him loved. We too are called beloved at a monarch, but among the people. you by the hand; I formed … including the fact that He our Baptism and in this Sacrament He talks with strangers, eats with PUBLISHER you, and set you as a cov- was born to die for us. we join Jesus and all those through sinners, and touches those whom Bishop John Noonan enant of the people.” To Every Eucharist is like the ages who have become one in no one else would. He manifests grasp someone’s hand ef- Christmas where the Christ. The Sacrament of Baptism beloved that we might not forget DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS fects a sense of urgency, a Bishop bread and wine are trans- is a covenant between you and God who we are. Jennifer Drow [email protected] desire for the person. God John formed into his flesh, his and his people. The Lord blesses us Prepare yourself always. When chooses us and forms us. Noonan Body and Blood, and, in a with his peace. you arise, think about how you WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER We fulfill his covenant; sense, he is born anew on As we close the Christmas will manifest beloved to your fam- Glenda Meekins that is, we carry forth his the altar. season with the anointing of our ily, your co-workers, the strangers [email protected] light for all the nations. How do we In the Gospel of Matthew, John Lord through the Sacrament of whom you encounter at the gro- 407-246-4808 do that? At Baptism, we receive the asks the question of Jesus which we Baptism, we consider afresh the cery store or walking down the To submit a request for news coverage light of Christ. He passes the torch all ask, “Why would I baptize You. meaning of the Christmas season, street. When you prepare for sleep, in the Diocese of Orlando, email news@ to us: I formed you and set you as a You should be baptizing me!” Jesus which is not meant to be separate consider all that you have done to orlandodiocese.org. covenant of the people … a light for replies as God has willed him. He or apart from our daily living. fulfill God’s covenant for the day. • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: the nations. asks for Baptism to fulfill all righ- Rather the gift of the Christmas Do not let Christmas slip away. Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, The feast of the Baptism of the teousness. He is chosen by God the moment is the person of Jesus who May we live as beloved; a covenant or customerservice@theflorida Lord concludes our liturgical sea- Father to fulfill the covenant of the shows us by his own living, how of his people. n catholic.org

Notify us of address changes (temporary or permanent) as soon as possible. Please NEWSbriefs change your address online at www. thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at Donations Bishop Grady Villas, which pro- To attend Catholic Days at the urrection Parish, Lakeland, Thurs- 1-888-275-9953. vides residential, vocational and Capitol, contact Catholic Charities days and Saturdays in both English improve life in employment support for people Office of Advocacy and Justice, 407- and Spanish. Subjects such as “Sur- • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at with disabilities in Central Florida 658-1818 ext. 1086 or advocacyjus- vey of the Catholic Doctrine” and 407-373-0075 or Central Florida also benefitted. [email protected]. “Ecclesiology” will run in five-week [email protected] By partnering with donors, the cycles. To attain a Level 1 certifi- • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at University of Dayton cate, the student must complete six 1-888-275-9953, or Catholic Foundation of Central Catholic Days at the [email protected] Florida distributed a record of more adult formation courses. than $2 million in 2019, providing Capitol, Jan. 28-30 “We believe the continuing edu- State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite resources to improve the quality of available cation is vital for the new generation G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; life for thousands, including vul- Every year, representatives of Catholics leaders. The dynamic Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- nerable populations. More than from Catholic Charities of Central ORLANDO | Face-to-face adult of the face-to-face initiative can free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 $710,000 supported Catholic school Florida, the Council of Catholic formation courses are being offered be the base of the Small Christian EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: tuition assistance, providing faith- Women, and advocates for life is- through the University of Dayton, Communities— a new way to do Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade filled education to underserved sues spend two days in Tallahassee Ohio, in the Diocese of Orlando for ministries and the ultimate goal of Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez students. Funds for parish support meeting and building relationships the first time. Beginning Jan. 18, forming missionary disciples to go Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu covered unexpected and popula- with state legislators and Catho- classes will be held in the Western and transform the society with the Office Manager: Kristen Maheu tion-growth related costs. lic bishops at Catholic Days at the Deanery coordinated through the Gospel values,” Evans said. Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael “We are honored to serve our Capitol. The two-day event Jan. Secretariat for Laity, Family, and Evans said his team is looking Carlock Central Florida community by pru- 28-30, allows Catholics from across Life. for other parishes interested in Advertising Graphic Designer: dently investing for increased re- Florida to advocate for social issues The diocese began its partner- taking advantage of this initiative. Michael Jimenez sources entrusted to us to address and strengthen Church teachings ship with the University of Dayton “A program such as this enhances community needs,” said Kimber- and Catholic values in the public in 2012, making adult education knowledge and promotes spiritual Have a comment/want more info/have lee Riley, president of the Catholic square. courses available online through growth and discipleship for many a story suggestion? Leave your feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; click reader Foundation’s. Participants will advocate for Virtual Learning Community of of our brothers and sisters that are feedback link in the top menu. More than $250,000 disbursed laws that protect and defend hu- Faith Formation. “A few years ago, looking for formation and to better to Catholic Charities and parish- man life and dignity, and give a we completed the pilot of the face- serve the church” Send statewide news releases to based ministries across Central voice to some of the most vulner- to-face classes with great success,” The University of Dayton is rec- [email protected] Florida, provided housing, food, able and marginalized populations said Tomás Evans, director of adult ognized for its master programs medical and mental-health as- in our state, meet with representa- ministry at the diocese secretariat. in pastoral ministry and theologi- All contents copyright © 2020, The Florida sistance to the needy. Funds also tives and senators, listen to an over- “In fact, leaders of the Hispanic cal studies focusing on the Roman Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from went to Catholic Campus Ministry view of legislative priorities offered Community of St. John Neumann Catholic tradition in dialogue with Catholic News Service. at the University of Central Florida, by the Florida Conference of Catho- completed and received the Level other Christian traditions and world serving Seminole State College, lic Bishops (the lobbying arm of 1 certificate. Now we want to make religions. To register, call Tomás Ev- Valencia College, and Full Sail Uni- Catholic bishops) and a tour of the the courses available in the Diocese ans at 407-246-4912 or email tevans versity. The ministry fosters spiri- Florida State Capitol. It concludes of Orlando.” @orlandodiocese.org. tual development and fellowship. with a Red Mass. Face-to-face courses are at Res-

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ASCEND CONFERENCE Students experience ‘mountaintop encounter’

GLENDA MEEKINS fours. At this stage, you’re desperate of the Florida Catholic staff and just want to get to the top. Even- tually you get to the top and there is ORLANDO | “The Lord did and a little altar there. Usually there is a intends to do powerful things,” priest saying Mass. Sometimes the said Brother Clinton Reed, Broth- clouds drift away and all you see is erhood of Hope (BH) Florida cam- beauty and you realize it was worth pus ministry director and St. Paul’s it.” He encouraged those present to Outreach regional director, of the stay strong and “righteous,” right Ascend Conference, Jan. 3-6 at with the Lord, for the rewards are the Wyndham Resort in Orlando. great. Through Eucharistic Adoration, the UCF SPO missionary Jordyn Sacrament of Reconciliation, Mass Kukla agreed, having experienced and presenters, St. Paul’s Outreach the pain and joy of evangelization. (SPO) and the Brotherhood of Hope, “There is always going to be hard- more than 500 students from uni- ship in mission. There’s always go- versity campuses nationwide expe- ing to be rejection, a place where rienced encounter and restoration. you just get attacked. When we Ascend is the first SPO national come together, it’s a time to share event of its kind. The conference those stories and be uplifted by theme of “ascend” referred to Scrip- our brothers and sisters. To come tures in which the people of God together in prayer for that grace to ascended mountains where an en- persevere. And also being able to counter with God, transformation share the glory of God and hope and restoration took place – Mount … hope as an image of an anchor Moriah and Abraham, Mount Ta- that’s grounding you. The security bor with Peter, James and John, and of Jesus Christ being with us in all Above, 30 University of Central Florida students join more than 500 university students and St. Paul Mount Sinai where God communi- the things that we have done, and Outreach missionaries nationwide at the Ascend Conference, finding encounter and renewal in Christ cated his law to the Hebrew people. centering our lives in that anchor so Jesus. Below, Bishop John Noonan celebrates Mass at the conference. (PHOTOS BY GLENDA MEEKINS | FC) “This conference has been like we are finding rest in the depths of an awakening of the Spirit … Bring- the ocean with Him.” ing new life and an invitation from She said students kept calling the Lord, to get to know Him and the conference a place of renewal. really try to hear what he is trying “Students can already feel the shift to give us each and every single in their hearts, reprioritizing and day,” said Sebastian Dominguez, placing Him at the center.” president of University of Central This is the very goal of the symbi- Florida’s Catholic Campus Minis- otic relationship between SPO and try (UCF CCM). He spoke of “simple the Brotherhood of Hope. “We come phrases” that “captured his heart together around a common real- such as “personal does not mean ity of a personal relationship with private. Being in relationship with Jesus and this sense of cultivating God doesn’t mean me and him this thriving community life that by myself, but in community,” he can withstand the pressures and added. tensions of this dark age and cul- Dominguez admitted to his ture surrounding us,” Brother Reed struggles the past year and named said. “In context, we try to cultivate the culprit, pride. “I’ve been trying a community that cultivates deep to do this all on my own. I brought relationship with the Lord and one that burden here and I’ve been feel- another … to bring life to people ing the Lord slowly lifting that off who were once dead, to speak joy my shoulders. It’s so easy to fall into where there has been sorrow; to that trap … it’s not really my way, bring hope where there is despair.” but his way. I am not alone in this This is often achieved through journey and this struggle.” households of women and men, Gordy Demarais, president ship, the privilege of walking side invest in deep relationships with “The journeys of faith are not al- with missionaries and students liv- and founder of St. Paul’s Outreach by side when someone is limping their spouses. That in turn will ways easy,” acknowledged Bishop ing together, praying daily, sharing agreed. “At the heart of our mission along … deepen family life and, in turn, John Noonan in a homily offered family meals and chores. Anthony is relationship because we’re made “These people here are going to give young people a sense of be- the second evening. He likened it Hammen, a junior at UCF in busi- for relationship with him and with go on to be religious priests, broth- longing and identity. It’s much to his own experience as a youth ness management from St. Joseph one another. We live in the midst of ers and sisters and holy, married greater than just coming to Church of climbing Mount Croagh Patrick Parish in Winter Haven lives in such a culture in which loneliness is epi- men and women who are going to on Sunday.” n on Reek Sunday, the last Sunday in a community. “I thought I could live demic. The Gospel addresses that July—a customary pilgrimage in my college career and my life with- need at its very core and it’s at the honoring St. Patrick in Ireland, said out the Lord. I realized quickly that heart of who we’re trying to be to to have spent the 40 days of Lent on I couldn’t do that.” Through St. Paul university students – to bring them the mountain. Outreach missionaries and other in relationship with the Lord and “As you begin to climb, it looks men already a part of UCF CCM, help them experience authentic re- just beautiful. After about an hour, “they pulled me back in the church lationship with other brothers and Prices starting at $2,499 ~ with Airfare Included in this price from anywhere in the USA you get into a higher level, steeper,” and loved me very well. Through sisters in Christ.” Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy; France, Portugal, and Spain; Poland; said Bishop Noonan. “You begin that I came to know that life in the “We are concerned about the Medjugorje, Lourdes, and Fatima; Ireland and Scotland; England; Austria, Germany, and Switzerland; Greece and Turkey; ; Prague; Our Lady of Guadalupe; Domestic Destinations; etc... to wind around the mountain and Lord is the only way to live.” The entirety of these people’s lives,” Fr. Augustine Clark, Retired pastor of Nativity Catholic Church, Longwood FL, is chaplain lo and behold the clouds come in. households are “filled with laugh- Brother Neri affirmed. “I want these for pilgrimage to Passion play including Germany, Switzerland, France 6/25-7/6/2020 13580-0110 The wind and rain come and it feels ter and joy and crazy college life, young people to go into our parish- miserable. Further it gets mucky, but also a real pursuit of holiness,” es and experience vibrant relation- We also specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests, and Deacons. swampy. Then you come to this Brother Adam Neri, BH, director of ships with each other. A feeling of www.proximotravel.com • Hablamos Español • [email protected] rocky patch and have to climb on all UCF’s CCM said. belonging, a challenge of disciple- 508-340-9370 • 855-842-8001 • Call us 24/7 A5 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 NEWS FROM around the diocese POLK COUNTY Secular parade puts Christ in Christmas HAINES CITY | Members of St. Ann Parish in Haines City geared up to send a clear message in the Haines City Christmas Parade, Dec. 20. It was their first time par- ticipating and they took the oppor- tunity to evangelize and remind their neighbors of the real reason we celebrate Christmas. After years of absence, the Haines City Christmas Parade returned at the request of its resi- dents. The secular parade invites community members, business owners, schools and non-profits. This year, there were more than 40 Parishioners of St. Ann Parish in Haines City participate in the city’s participants. Christmas parade Dec. 20. (COURTESY) Lily Muniz, the parish admin- Father Stephen Ogonwa blesses the new statue of Our Lady Dec. 21 istrative assistant, said of the 52 lumbus, Columbiettes, members marched past them. We believe at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Candler. (COURTESY). churches in Haines City, St. Ann of both the Spanish and English that our message, to ‘Keep Christ was one of two churches par- choirs, a youth group, and mem- in Christmas’ was received by all. statue of Our Lady. On Dec. 21, Fa- “Those of you who love the Blessed ticipating. “Our theme was ‘Keep bers of all of St. Ann ministries We can’t wait until next year.” ther Seno concelebrated Mass with Mother should contribute private- Christ in Christmas’ and our float marched or participated in some Bishop John Noonan and blessed ly,” he said. In a month’s time, the was handmade by our parishio- way alongside their pastor, Father the statue. Nearly 200 parishioners funds were raised and the six-foot ners. Every decoration was hand Alfonso Cely. MARION COUNTY attended the momentous occasion. statue was ordered. She was placed carved and hand painted,” she “We are grateful to have had It was August 15 — the feast of to the right of the altar to be highly said, adding volunteers even sewed the opportunity to participate in Bishop blesses the Assumption of Mary — when visible. the costumes. “We all worked very this year’s parade,” Father Cely Father Seno walked into the church “This is the church of Our Lady hard for countless hours to be, in said. “It was wonderful to see our new statue and noticed that the small statue of of the Immaculate Heart,” he our eyes, the prettiest float of the multicultural parish community, CANDLER | Responding to the Our Lady had been moved closer to said. “Anyone who comes into our parade.” youth group, choirs, and ministries call from their parochial adminis- the altar and adorned with flowers church will see her right away. A live Nativity included a donkey work together as a family to create trator, Father Stephen Ogonwa (Fa- to commemorate the day. Immedi- Her image brings the honor of our accompanied by the three kings, and put together such a beautiful ther Seno), parishioners at Immac- ately he thought, “There should be Blessed Mother to us. May God Matachines (American Indian) float. It was amazing to see the joy ulate Heart of Mary Parish in Can- a larger statue there.” At the end of bless the donors who made it pos- dancers, a choir of angels and shep- in people’s faces in the crowd — dler raised funds in one month in his homily that day, he announced sible.” herds. Parish staff, Knights of Co- of all races and religions — as we order to grace their church with a his desire to his parishioners. Children remembered in prayer service GLENDA MEEKINS the parish can do it. We immedi- band, A.J., about their loss. They of the Florida Catholic staff ately expanded it to children who could not find the words to say or had died of other causes. It’s very tried to minimize the pain saying, ALTAMONTE SPRINGS | For touching.” “You can have another child.” two decades, St. Mary Magdalen Christina Vazquez lost her son, “(For many) the thought of a Parish’s Respect Life Ministry has Mateo, on Feb. 22, 2016, two days child passing is so difficult they commemorated the loss of a child before she was due to give birth may not even want of attend a ser- with a special prayer service on because of complications with his vice like this, but for someone like the feast of the Holy Innocents. umbilical cord. She said the ser- me who has gone through that loss, The parish tradition of placing an vice allowed her to remember her it’s incredibly important to have a ornament on a Tree of Remem- son. way to memorialize my son,” she brance continues to be a solemn “Anything that memorializes said. “It may sound simple, putting and beautiful way to acknowledge his life is important to me. It’s hard an ornament on a tree, but to have the children lost both by the hand for a lot of people to understand the something tangible like that is very of Herod and others lost through impact he has in our lives. We don’t healing. It’s an acknowledgement abortion, premature death or other have a gravesite, so for me, this of his life.” circumstances. kind of service is important,” she This year, her husband joined Parishioners commemorate children lost on the feast of the Holy Larry Scotchie recalled the ear- said. “When you remember that her although he practices another Innocents during a prayer service at St. Mary Magdalen Parish. ly years of the prayer service and someone is gone, you’re acknowl- faith. “This kind of service is dif- (ANDREA NAVARRO | FC) even helped plan one of its first edging that they were here. For a ficult for him. People grieve dif- liturgies. As part of the Knights of lot of people, it is difficult to un- ferently,” Vazquez said. “Although church led by Deacon Juan Cruz, Charles Mitchell, pastor. “Our hope Columbus, he helps raise funds for derstand a loss like ours because I always think about (Mateo), to those gathered moved outside, ad- is to be a source of strength for the ultrasound machines so women we never even got to see him open attend the service every year in his jacent to the Marian grotto. They mothers, fathers and all families at contemplating an abortion may his eyes. We met him after he had name helps me stay connected to prayed and blessed the tree, then a time when the longings of their have the chance to change their passed away.” him.” each person hung their ornament. hearts sometimes cannot be put minds. Recognizing the official This is her third year and Religion has been a source of “Our Respect Life Ministry does to words, but can be comforted in feast day of the Church, he said a Vazquez said it has helped her heal. strength for Vazquez, so she con- a beautiful job in the Christmas prayer. We believe all the children service made perfect sense. “It’s She recalled how hard it was for tinues to pray. Those who partici- season gathering our St. Mary we have lost live on, not only in our a good way of highlighting the family and friends, especially the pated were greeted by candlelight. Magdalen family to pray for all love and in our memories, but in horror of abortion and anyone in first year, to talk to her and her hus- After a short prayer service in the the Holy Innocents,” said Father heaven.” n Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/floridacatholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY A6 First-grade educator carries on family’s teaching legacy

LINDA CALDWELL Special to the Florida Catholic Aubrey Dunn displays a WINTER PARK | Legacy photo of herself with families, those with multiple gen- her great- erations who attended the same grandmother, school, are not uncommon in Dio- Mary Dunn, cese of Orlando Catholic schools, St. Margaret nor are alumni who return to their Mary’s first alma mater to teach the next gen- kindergarten eration of students. teacher. Aubrey Dunn, first-grade teach- Aubrey now er at St. Margaret Mary Catholic teaches first School, fits in a distinctive category grade at the as a legacy educator. A 2007 alum- same Winter Park school. nae, Dunn marked the third gener- 13602-0110 ation of the Dunn family to gradu- (LINDA ate from the Winter Park school. CALDWELL When she accepted her first teach- | FC) ing job, she became the second gen- eration of the Dunn family to teach at the school. The family’s historical ties to St. Margaret Mary date back to 1954 when the school was founded. Mary Dunn, great-grandmother to Aubrey Dunn, was the school’s first kindergarten teacher. “I love that I am carrying on the legacy of my great-grandmother,” Aubrey said. “This place is so spe- cial, especially with my family ties at a Catholic school in the diocese, St. Margaret Mary feels like home.” here.” especially at St. Margaret Mary, was Aubrey hopes to instill an early “I was young when my great- a given in her career plans. love for learning in her students, grandmother passed away, but I do “Every year I was here at St. Mar- much like her great-grandmother remember reading to her,” Aubrey garet Mary, I wanted to be a teacher. and her teachers at the school did said, noting that her great-grand- Whatever grade I was in at the time for her. mother instilled a love of reading was the grade I wanted to teach,” “I want my classroom to be a safe and learning in her heart. she said. “I have such fond memo- place, and a place where learning is “She always asked me to read to ries here. This is where my faith was obviously going on,” Aubrey said. her. She loved to hear me read.” built, where my lifetime friendships “I want my students to learn about Mary was also the first of four that have turned into family were life and learn how to love God and generations of teachers in the Dunn begun. I obviously really loved it be kind to one another. I want to Family. Mary’s daughter-in-law, because I am back. I am now work- teach them how to look for the good granddaughter-in-law, and now ing with some of the teachers I had. in others.” n great-granddaughter all went on to serve as educators. And like the se- nior Dunn, Aubrey and her mother AN EVENING WITH THE have backgrounds in special educa- tion. MUSIC OF NASHVILLE “My grandma said she learned STARING NASHVILLE SINGER/SONG WRITERS so much from her mother-in-law because she was such a great teach- KEN HARRELL MARCIA RAMIREZ ROB HARRIS er and was so good with the kids,” Aubrey said. “She tells me that she learned more from my great- grandmother than she ever learned in college.” Katie Walsh, principal, said hav- 12171-0110 ing the second generation of Dunn educators on campus is special to the St. Margaret Mary Catho- When: January 18, 2020 from 7 to 9 p.m. lic School community. “Having Aubrey as a teacher at St. Marga- Where: Annunciation Catholic Church ret Mary is truly a blessing to our St. Gabriel Life Center school community and especially Cost: $20 per person or two for $35 to her students,” she said. “It is fit- ting that Aubrey would begin her Sponsored by: The Knights of Columbus teaching career here where her Limited Tickets • Open Seating great-grandmother taught, for St. To purchase tickets: www.annunciationorlando.org/nashville Margaret Mary Catholic School is woven into the fabric of Aubrey’s FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 13588-0110 life.” John Scala at 407-804-0518, [email protected] or As for Aubrey, she said teaching Dennis Franko at 407-717-4143, [email protected] A7 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Bishop joins Filipino community for Christmas novena

GLENDA MEEKINS At left, a dozen of the Florida Catholic staff priests and deacons joined Bishop WINTER PARK | Led by the col- John Noonan in orfully lighted parol, a traditional concelebrating Filipino holiday season lantern the third night of with a five-point star symbolizing the Simbang Gabi the star of Bethlehem, Bishop John novena at Sts. Peter Noonan and a dozen priests and and Paul, Dec. 17. deacons began the third night of the Below, a lit parol Simbang Gabi novena of Masses. symbolizes unity of faith and hope Nearly 400 members of the Filipino among Catholic community throughout the Dio- Filipinos throughout cese of Orlando gathered at Sts. Pe- the world. (PHOTOS ter and Paul Parish in Winter Park BY GLENDA for the occasion Dec. 17. MEEKINS | FC) The parol, in various styles and sizes, is one of the most popular Filipino Christmas symbols, next to we have this at 4 o’clock in the John Vianney Parish in Orlando, the crèche and the tree,” said Father morning. Nine days you’re busy has sang in the diocesan Filipino Juanito Figura, parochial vicar of in the evening, you’re busy in the Choir since 2010. The choir of some Sts. Peter and Paul. “It reminds us of morning and Christmas day you al- 20 members is traditionally a part the star that guided the wise men to most want to give up,” Father Figura of the novena. At times, Mercadal the place of the Nativity. Churches, recalled with a laugh. He arrived in travels up to two hours to vari- homes, shopping malls and, yes, the United States in 2012. “But you ous parishes to participate in the public schools and offices are deco- don’t mind the fatigue because ev- nine-night novena. She summed rated as soon as Advent begins.” erybody is happy and it is a very joy- up her feelings about her participa- Father Figura added Filipino ful experience.” tion with one word “gratefulness.” priests often repeat, “that we should He added Simbang Gabi is an “(It is) for the overwhelming love let the light of the parol enlighten important tradition for the Filipino that God already gave to us,” she our minds and hearts — individual- community because it is both a cel- said. “This is a way of giving back ly and collectively — so that we may ebration and a way to introduce the to him.” constantly see and feel the Lord in community experience of the faith, In his homily, Bishop Noonan our lives.” especially during Christmas. cited the Gospel reading from Mat- Meaning “evening Mass,” Sim- “(It’s a time) to share in the thew, delineating the genealogy of bang Gabi customarily takes place growth of the faith community — Jesus, from Abraham to Joseph. As in the pre-dawn hours during the not just of this parish, but of the dio- he noted the many names listed, he nine days leading up to Christmas. cese because this is also a diocesan said it helped people see how God This year 23 parishes in the diocese ministry,” he said. “It also helps us fulfilled his promises. The bishop celebrated the Masses at various share our joy and is a way of inte- described the Filipino community times, enabling maximum atten- grating ourselves with the other as one of the tribes of Israel that pre- dance. cultures and other people.” pares for the birth of Christ Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim proclaim God’s word with their life, “Back home (in the Philippines) Marlene Mercadal, from St. Bishop Noonan also recalled Tagle, of Manila, who was recently as modeled by their new cardinal. chosen by Pope Francis to serve in “He can bring the Scriptures to . Cardinal Tagle’s goal is to life for the people,” the bishop said spread the word of God. The bishop of Cardinal Tagle. “It’s going to be encouraged those gathered to “be a very hard thing to let go of some- spiritual listeners with the heart” body you’ve come to know and love, and to converse with God, so they but you are giving a great gift to the might receive His peace and can wider world.” n 13601-0110 DIOCESE OF ORLANDO Ministry Formation Conference Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020 | 8 a.m.-3p.m.

Bishop Moore Catholic High School 3901 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL 32804

Through friendship with Jesus Christ we learn how to lead and accompany others to be disciples of Christ. Abide With Me is a day of formation for you, a day to equip you say yes to God’s invitation to boldly proclaim the Gospel and experience the fullness of Life in Christ. Learn from national and local experts who share your passion for teaching and preaching the Good News, and meet others in ministry who have answered God’s call to serve. 13252-0110 Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/floridacatholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY A8

8 at 10 a.m. with reception to DIOCESAN EVENTS follow. EVENTS WITH BISHOP NOONAN MISSION MARKET Adult Mental Health Legacy Planning Seminar: Lunar New Year’s Eve Mass: namese community calls Tet. Friday, NEW ROSEMONT AGAPE First Aid-Pt.1 & 2: Part One: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 11:30 a.m.- Come celebrate with Bishop John Jan. 24, 8-9 p.m. St. Philip Phan van MISSION MARKET Wednesday, Jan. 15, 8:30 a.m.- 2 p.m., St. Catherine of Siena Noonan the first day of the Lunar New Minh Parish, 15 W. Par St., Orlando FL 4300 Clarcona Ocoee Rd., 12:30 p.m.; Part Two: Friday, Jan. Parish, 2750 E. Osceola Pkwy., Year, part of a three-day celebration 32804. Contact Rosie Nguyen at 407- Orlando. Open Wednesdays Kissimmee. Free conference 17, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sts. marking the lunar new year the Viet- 896-4210 or philipminhparish.org. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. – Peter and Paul Parish, 5300 Old event on Legacy planning 1 p.m. Howell Branch Rd., Winter Park. presented by The Catholic $30. Cash or check made out Foundation of Central Florida. Youth from all over the city will Parish, 526 N. Park Ave., Winter to Catholic Charities of Central Offered in English and Spanish be showcased. Contact Eretta Park. All caregivers are welcome. 9th St., Lake Wales, Tuesdays and Florida. Contact Kyle Osborn, simultaneously. R.S.V.P. by Feb. Morris, [email protected] Deacon Bill Timmes, 407-647- Thursdays, 9-11 a.m. and noon- [email protected] or 407-969- 5. Lunch included. Contact Rosie Forgiveness and Mercy: 3392. 4 p.m., and Fridays, 5-7 p.m. 8534. Camous at [email protected] Tuesday, Jan. 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Sunshine Seniors: third Volunteers needed to help sort, Legacy Planning Seminar: St. Mary Parish, 1136 Seminole Thursdays, noon (except in the pack, stock and distribute food. Thursday, Jan. 16, noon- Dr., Rockledge. Reflection on summer), Blessed Trinity Parish, • Clerical/administrative 2:30 p.m., St. Patrick Parish Social RETREATS forgiveness and mercy with 4545 Anderson Rd., Orlando. volunteers needed to assist Father Ivan Olmo followed by Enjoy a potluck lunch, outings with data entry, copying, filing Hall, 6803 Old Hwy. 441 S., Mt. San Pedro Center: 2400 Dike Catholic Correctional Chaplain and faith. Turner Flynn, 407-277- and organization for Family Dora. Free conference event Rd., Winter Park. To register: Dale Recinella, who will be 1702. Stability Program in Orlando, on Legacy planning presented sanpedrocenter.org/retreats- giving a presentation on Prison Separated and divorced: 1819 N. Semoran Blvd., Monday- by The Catholic Foundation of programs, or call 407-671-6322. Central Florida. R.S.V.P. by Jan. and Death Row Ministry. • Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Holy Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • Senior Day — St. John 10. Lunch included. Contact Evening ends with 30 minutes of Redeemer Parish, 1603 N. • Volunteer medical Henry Newman with Father Rosie Camous at rcamous@cfocf. Eucharistic Adoration. Thacker Ave., Kissimmee. professionals needed at each Anthony Aarons: Thursday, Jan. org Women’s Guild Annual Sylvester Edwards, 407-460-0707. clinic. [email protected], 9,9 a.m.–1:30 p.m., St. Francis Rummage Sale: Friday, Jan. 24 Lazarus Free Medical Clinic in Youth Mental Health First of Assisi Hall. Learn more about • Catholic Divorce Survival - Saturday, Jan. 25, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 Wildwood; Erin.Burley@cflcc. Aid-Pt.1 & 2: Part One: Monday, the recently-canonized St. John Guide, 12-week program, p.m., Immaculate Conception org, St. Luke’s Free Medical and Jan. 27, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Henry Newman. $15, lunch and Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., St. Church Hall, 3780 Hwy. A1A, Dental Clinic in Eustis; Kelly. Part Two: Wednesday, Jan. Mass. Margaret Mary Parish, 526 N. 29, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sts. Melbourne Beach. Park Ave., Winter Park. Cost: [email protected], St. Thomas • Life in the Eucharist Peter and Paul Parish, 5300 Old Runway for Giving: Friday, $20, scholarships available. Lori Free Medical Clinic in St. Cloud. Retreat: Friday, Jan. 17, Howell Branch Rd., Winter Park. Feb. 7, Loews Sapphire Falls Reinneck, lori@stmargaretmary. Lazarus Free Dental Clinic 4 p.m. thru Sunday, Jan. 19, $30. Cash or check made out Resort at Universal Studios, 6601 org, 407-645-0284. of St. Paul Parish in Leesburg is 11 a.m. Deepen your personal to Catholic Charities of Central Adventure Way, Orlando. Fashion looking for volunteer dentists relationship with Jesus Christ. • Coffee and conversation, Florida. Contact Kyle Osborn, show, live auction, and luncheon. and dental hygienists. If Acquire a broader intellectual second Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Our Lady [email protected] or 407-969- Proceeds benefit Morning Star interested, contact Myrta Aviles appreciation of the Eucharist as of Lourdes, 1014 N. Halifax Ave., 8534. Catholic School. Jessica Hubbard, Daytona Beach. Leslie Bonner, at 352-748-4567. we explore the liturgical richness 407-293-7561, Ext. 223. Catholic Days at the of the Mystery of the Eucharist 386-265-1199. St. Vincent de Paul Orlando Find Your Greatness: Capitol: Tuesday, Jan. and how it applies to daily life. • “Divorce Care Ministry provides volunteer opportunities 28-Thursday, Jan. 30. Join Saturday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m.-2 through its stores and food • Art and Soul: Saturday, Adults and Children,” us as we meet and build p.m., St. Joseph Parish, 210 pantries for students needing Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-noon, Friary Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m., Holy Name relationships with our legislative W. Lemon St., Winter Haven. volunteer hours. Apply at House. Getting creative is good of Jesus, 3050 N. Hwy. A1A, representatives and Catholic Speaker Allen Hunt will focus Indialantic. 321-773-2783. svdporlando.org. for the soul Join Nikki Fragala on four habits to transform Bishops. It is a great opportunity Families with incarcerated Barnes in this artful family one’s life based on “Four Signs to advocate on social issues and loved ones: church teachings. Concludes friendly event. $25 includes cart of a Dynamic Catholic.” $25 at SECULAR with votive Mass of the Holy supplies. dynamiccatholic.com or call 859- • Third Saturdays, 9 a.m., St. Spirit. Office of Advocacy and Catechist Formation-Faith 980-7900. Mary Magdalen Parish, Mother COMMUNITIES Teresa Room, 861 Maitland Ave., Justice 407-658-1818 ext. 1086 or Fit Enrichment Retreat: Downton Abbey Fashion Altamonte Springs. 407-463-5780 [email protected]. Saturday, Jan. 18, 9:30 a.m.-3 Show and Card Party: Lay Carmelites: first or email [email protected]. Abide with Me Faith p.m. Two locations: St. Paul Saturday, Feb. 8, 9 a.m.-2:30 Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Formation Conference: Parish, 1330 Sunshine Ave., p.m., Divine Mercy Parish, 1940 Bereavement support Annunciation Parish, 1020 Saturday, Feb. 1, 8 a.m.-3 Leesburg, and Our Lady of N. Courtenay Parkway, Merritt groups: Montgomery Rd., Altamonte p.m., Bishop Moore Catholic Hope, 4675 S. Clyde Morris Island. Fashion show, fabulous • St. James Cathedral Springs. Lay Carmelite order of High School, 3901 Edgewater Blvd., Port Orange. Secretariat luncheon, basket raffles, silent social hall, 215 N. Orange Ave., the Blessed Virgin Mary is an Dr., Orlando. Parish ministry for Laity, Family, and Life, slfl@ auction, $100 raffle, door prizes, Orlando, monthly. Life after loss association of mainly laypersons leaders, staff and volunteers, orlandodiocese.org, 407-246- bingo and fun for all sponsored grief support. Contact mmokris@ who commit themselves “to through friendship with Jesus 4910 or Rowena Hoblin at Our by Divine Mercy Council of stjamesorlando.org; 407-422- live in the following of Jesus Christ, learn how to lead and Lady of Hope, 386-788-6144 Catholic Women. Tickets $20. Call 2055, ext. 101. Christ” according to the charism, accompany others to be disciples or 2019-2020-faith-fit-retreats. Ginny at 917-913-8179. Funds • Holy Redeemer Parish traditions and spirit of Carmelite of Christ. During this day of eventbrite.com. benefit local church, school, St. office, 1603 N. Thacker Ave., order. Terri West, terrilynnwest@ formation, learn from national Vincent de Paul Society, Catholic Kissimmee, second and fourth gmail.com, 407-925-6274, and local experts who share Relief Services, Genesis House, Wednesdays, 5-6:30 p.m. 407- lcarmacc.com. your passion for teaching and MASSES/PRAYER and other ministries. 847-2500; Sylvester Edwards, Secular Order Discalced preaching the Good news, and SESSIONS An Elegant Evening of 407-460-0707; search ministry of Carmelites: First Sunday of the meet others in ministry who Love and Laughter Valentine consolation at hredeemer.org. month, Our Lady of the Springs, 4047 NE 21st Street, Ocala. Men have answered God’s call to Interpreted Mass for the Dinner Dance: Friday, Feb. 14, • Blessed Trinity Parish, and Women, do you find yourself serve. deaf: Sundays, 11 a.m. Mass, Holy Name of Jesus Parish Life Building L, 5 S.E. 17th St., wishing and praying about ways Taste of the Villages: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1014 Center, 3050 N. Highway A1A, Ocala. Multiple groups and to deepen your spiritual life? The Tuesday, Feb. 4, The Savannah N. Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach. Indialantic. Six course gourmet first Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. Regina Pacis Discalced Carmelite Center, 1575 Buena Vista Blvd., An American Sign Language Caribbean pork dinner Compassionate Friends, Ocala Secular Order may help you The Villages. Come taste great interpreter provided. Meet in (vegetarian options available) chapter, for families who have discern. Joanne Harris at 352- food from 15 local restaurants the café, 10:15 a.m., for a “deaf and dancing to benefit Hearts experienced the death of a child. 465-0170 or Louise Kovatch and enjoy the live and silent coffee chat” with pastries. 386- Out to Haiti mission. $50. Call Peggy McClaskey, 352-694-2978. at 352-753-7460, or an OCDS auctions to benefit Catholic 255-0433. Tim Muth, 321-536-4140 or email • St. Stephen Parish member in your parish. Charities of Central Florida’s Rosary: Before all Masses [email protected]. Enrichment Center 1, Rm. Secular Franciscans of the Lazarus Free Medical Clinic. and Mondays, Wednesdays, Greeks for God: Friday, 103, 575 Tuskawilla Rd., Winter Lady Poverty Fraternity: first Renee Baker, [email protected], Thursdays, Fridays at 6 p.m., and Feb. 21, 5:35-7 p.m., Our Lady of Springs, first Thursdays, 6:30-8 Sundays, 12:30-3:30 p.m., San 407-451-5315, or purchase a Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. St. Jude Lourdes Catholic Church, 1014 p.m. For anyone who has lost a Pedro Spiritual Development ticket online https://one.bidpal. Parish, 443 Marion Oaks Dr., N. Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach. loved one, spouse, parent, child Center, Building 100, 2400 Dike net/tov2020/welcome. Ocala. Aida Figueroa, 352-512- Local undergraduate Greek or sibling. 407-699-5683. Rd., Winter Park. Dan Hardester, Mass for Marriage: Renew 3592. organizations will come together your vows and celebrate your in competition by “stepping” 407-687-6647, danhardester@ marriage with Father Miguel in biblical rhythms. An African VOLUNTEERS yahoo.com. Gonzalez at the Mass for COMMUNITY American Ministry event. Secular Franciscans of Marriage, an annual celebration Contact: Eretta Morris, erettam@ NEEDED the Mother of the Living held during National Marriage EVENTS yahoo.com Gospel: First Saturdays, Week to highlight the sacrament Catholic Charities of Central 10 a.m.-noon, Incarnation Parish, and vocation of marriage. Gospel Explosion: Sunday, Florida. Visit cflcc.org /volunteer Royal Hall, 1515 Edgewater Married couples, their families Jan. 12, 4-6 p.m., Our Lady of SUPPORT or contact [email protected] Dr., Orlando. Margie Sweeney, and all who support marriage Lourdes Parish, 201 University or 407-658-1818, ext. 1026. 407-973-3366; facebook.com/ are invited to attend. The Mass Blvd., Daytona Beach. Join MINISTRIES • Agape Mission Market, MotheroftheLivingGospel. will be celebrated at the St. this celebration in honor of 1771 N. Semoran Blvd., Orlando. James Cathedral, 215 N. Orange Martin Luther King hosted by Caregiver Support Group: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Ave., Orlando on Saturday, Feb. the African American Ministry. fourth Tuesdays, 10 a.m.- and 1-4:30 p.m.; and at 644 S. 11:30 a.m., St. Margaret Mary WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Jan. 10-23, 2020 FLORIDACatholic PALM BEACH DIOCESE Pope: Don’t let Local Christian groups devil light ‘fire’ of war in your heart unite for pro-life cause CAROL GLATZ CECILIA PADILLA FYI Catholic News Service of the Florida Catholic staff The “Stand for Life” event will take place on Jan. 19 from 2-3 p.m. along Route 60 | People cannot call VERO BEACH | The Christian commu- near St. Helen Catholic Church, located at themselves Christians if they sow the seeds nity in Vero Beach has many things in com- 2085 Tallahassee Ave., Vero Beach, 32960. of war, Pope Francis said. mon, but perhaps none so compelling as it’s All ages and faiths are welcome to attend Finding fault and condemning others mutual voracity to defend the unborn. and encouraged to bring signs and chairs if is “the temptation of the devil for making “We have personally invited other church- necessary. To learn more about the event, war,” the pope said in his homily during es to join us in our fight against abortion,” contact Marie Ferretti at Maf595@bellsouth. morning Mass in the Domus Sanctae Mar- said Marie Ferretti, Respect Life Ministry co- net or call 772-567-7679. thae Jan. 9. ordinator at St. Helen Parish in Vero Beach. If people are “sowers of war” in their “The fact that we have received a tremendous families, communities and workplace, then response from local Protestant churches and spiritual pain I encountered in having an they cannot be Christians, he said, accord- to unite in our cause speaks volumes of the abortion brought me back to Christ in a pro- ing to Vatican News. community’s desire to respect life.” found way. Women need to hear from some- Celebrating Mass in the chapel of his res- Ferretti is deep in preparation for the 14th one who experienced unplanned pregnan- idence, the pope preached about the day’s annual ecumenical “Stand for Life” event cy—to hear someone say, ‘I’ve been where first reading from the First Letter of John. on Sanctity of Life Sunday, Jan. 19. Peaceful you are.’ As Christians, we strive to embody The passage underlined how important it protesting will take place along Route 60, and the love of God in hopes to guide them away is to “remain in God” by following his com- individuals of all faiths are welcome to join in from pain and suffering. When I reached out mandment to love God by loving others. the proclamation of the sanctity of life. to God, he was there. We need to be that life- Olivia Lewis, a fifth grade student “This is the commandment we have from “We want to spread the crowd strategi- line for others,” said Booth. at St. Helen Catholic School in Vero him: Whoever loves God must also love his cally along the route so that we can be seen Booth and Ferretti have worked together Beach, joined the “Stand for Life” event brother,” one verse says. for miles as cars drive by,” Ferretti said. “But I on spreading awareness of the “Stand for protesters with her mother, Laura Lewis. “Where the Lord is, there is peace,” Pope know we can’t do this alone. We need the ef- Life” event through rounds of phone calls, (COURTESY) Francis said in his homily. fort of many, and the time and talent of those emails and letter campaigns calling on “It is he who makes peace; it is the Holy passionate about saving the unborn.” support from local Catholic and Protestant mother, to help her understand the value of Spirit that he sends to bring peace within Katherine Booth, a member of the An- churches. Both women have contacted mu- all life, especially that of the unborn,” said us,” he said, because only by remaining glican Christ Church Vero Beach, is just the tual connections through “40 Days for Life,” Laura Lewis. “It is an essential responsibil- in the Lord can there be peace in one’s woman to assist Ferretti with this mission. which Booth has participated in with her ity for Catholics to share that message with heart. Booth, who has worked in the pro-life min- home church. others. ... It’s vital that more youth continue To “remain in God” is the secret to peace. istry at Christ Church Vero Beach for three “Last year, we had about 250 people come to join our cause. If we, as the older genera- The pope cautioned against thinking that years, exuded passion and compassion for out to join us. This year, I’ve personally met tion, don’t step up as a witness to the sanctity war and peace are only external to oneself, those faced with the realities of abortion. with 58 Protestant churches. We pray that of life at every stage, how can we expect the that they occur only “in that country, in that “Sidewalk advocacy has the reputation of more people will see the value in taking a younger generation to value the elderly, the situation.” While it is important to pray for being very intimidating and abrasive,” Booth public stand this year,” said Booth. unborn and the vulnerable?” peace in the world, he said, peace must be- said. “That’s not the message I want to give. “One year, a Protestant minister drove by Booth and Ferretti continue to acknowl- gin in one’s own heart. I want the public, and women walking up to our protesters and stopped by the parish of- edge the value of ecumenical cooperation People should reflect on their own heart the abortion clinic, to know that Christians fice to express his gratitude for our efforts. It in the pro-life movement. “St. Helen Parish — whether it is “at peace” or “anxious” or speak with love and mercy and bring the was wonderful to witness,” Ferretti said. is really integral to the Respect Life Ministry always “at war, straining to have more, to message of God’s salvation.” These anecdotes are supported by the in Vero Beach. I’m honored to serve as their dominate, to be heard.” Booth speaks from experience. She shared growing number of young families attend- Anglican ambassador in doing God’s work,” “If we do not have peace in our heart, her personal story of undergoing an abortion ing the event. The Lewis family, parishioners Booth said. how do we think there will be peace in the and the saving grace she found in Christ. “I of St. Helen Parish, have attended the “Stand “I’m heartened by the enthusiasm of local world?” he asked. “If there is war in my haven’t really spoken out about my experi- for Life” event in recent years. “I attend the Protestant churches to join forces with us. We heart,” he said, “there will be war in my ence until now. I was raised a Christian, but ‘Stand for Life’ event each year with my are committed to keep this ministry grow- family, there will be war in my neighbor- I didn’t live the Christian life. The emotional daughter because it is important to me, as a ing,” Ferretti said. n hood and there will be war at my work- place.” Jealousy, envy, gossip and speaking bad- CONFIRMATION RETREAT ly about others create “war” between peo- ple and “destroy,” he said, adding people should look at how they speak and whether On Dec. 14, youth from what they say is animated by a “spirit of throughout the Diocese peace” or the “spirit of war.” of Palm Beach were invited to attend a retreat Talking or acting in ways that hurt or tar- in preparation for the nish others indicates “the Holy Spirit is not sacrament of confirmation. there,” he said. The retreat was held at “And this happens to every one of us. St. Paul of the Cross Parish The immediate reaction is to condemn the in North Palm Beach and other,” he said, and this “is the temptation welcomed more than 80 by the devil to make war.” students to join in spiritual People first destroy themselves by re- growth, fellowship and moving love from their heart, he said, and prayer in front of Our Lady’s then they destroy others because of this Grotto dedicated to the “seed that the devil has placed in us." n Blessed Mother. (COURTESY) Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A2 The new year — A journey of hope

We are already more than a week as has never been experienced be- A sculpture into the new year. As we planned fore. This lack of hope is causing a with peace for this significant year of 2020, we great deal of frustration, anger and doves is seen have made resolutions to improve resentment which is readily ex- in . In ourselves as we journey through pressed around the world. It is only his message FLORIDA it. We know from experience that hope that will sustain the world and for Jan. 1, many of those resolutions will not each one of us in this time of dis- Pope Francis Catholic come to pass. What is important tress and difficulty as well as in our said the world DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH for the new year is not so own personal lives. Hope does not need much the resolutions but does not simply urge us to more empty Vol. 81, No. 5 our vision for the year keep going as things will words, it needs based on our faith. The vir- get better. Hope looks be- committed, 9995 North Military Trail tue of hope is an essential yond the present difficul- active Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 part in facing the new year ties of this life to the prom- peacemakers. 561-775-9500 • Fax 561-630-2698 as we encounter the many ise of eternal life in God’s (QIANLONG, joys, difficulties, chal- loving presence. Hope is REUTERS | CNS) PUBLISHER lenges, uncertainties, dis- the conviction that life is Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito LIVING THE appointments and all that worth living, even in suf- TRUTH IN spite the limitations of his age and anniversary. Kennedy indeed was DIRECTOR OF will come to us in 2020. LOVE fering and pain, because the burdens that he faces in his of- youthful and energetic and inspired COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING Pope Francis has given God loves us and leads us fice. He travels the world with the great hope for the future. However, and SOCIAL MEDIA us a message on the first Bishop to himself and ultimately message of hope and does not grow in the plans he placed before the Jennifer Trefelner [email protected] day of the new year for the Gerald to his eternal life with him. weary nor grow faint. nation he quoted the words of hope 561-775-9529 occasion of the World Day Barbarito The words of the proph- It is obvious that our country, of Isaiah 40:31 and concluded his for Peace. St. Pope Paul VI et Isaiah regarding hope, world and society are growing wea- remarks by saying, “As we face the DIOCESAN EDITOR first dedicated Jan. 1, the which we just heard dur- ry. Indeed, weariness has already coming challenge, we too shall wait Cecilia Padilla Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of ing the season of Advent, are ex- undertaken them in so many dif- upon the Lord and ask that he re- [email protected] God, to world peace in 1967. Every tremely significant for us facing a ferent ways. For all the emphasis new our strength. Then shall we be 561-775-9528 year since then we have received a new year. The prophet proclaims, today on youth and vigor, there is equal to the test. Then we shall not message from the Pope on this oc- “They that hope in the Lord will much staggering and falling. There be weary. Then we shall prevail.” • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: casion. Pope Francis’ message this renew their strength. ... They will is a lack of hope which prevents It is disappointing that the era of Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, or customerservice@theflorida year is entitled, “Peace as a Journey run and not grow weary, walk and progress as well as a vision that the 1960s and those since it have catholic.org of Hope.” His message develops into not grow faint” (Is 40:31). Truly, it is brings people together as made in lost the vision of hope in the Lord five points. He addresses nuclear the Lord that gives us the strength the image and likeness of God. Our which has resulted in so many of Notify us of address changes (temporary issues in the first two points call- to keep going in the face of over- own nation uses the words “One our world’s difficulties. or permanent) as soon as possible. Please ing on Christians to reject systems whelming obstacles and misun- nation under God” in its Pledge of As we begin this new year, let us change your address online at www. of security built on fear of others. derstandings. Isaiah makes clear Allegiance and the words “In God renew our hope in the Lord as Pope thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at 1-888-275-9953. In this regard he refers to his recent that God gives strength to those we Trust” on its currency and in its Francis exhorts us and the entire trip to Japan where he visited the who hope and trust in him. Those courtrooms. How many times we world. It is only this hope that will • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at nuclear bombed cities of Hiroshima who do not place their trust in God are far from this reality, especially lead to a journey of peace within 407-373-0075 or and Nagasaki. His third point deals will falter no matter how much when consideration for removing our world and within our lives. God [email protected] with global economic injustice and vigor they may possess. As he says, these words is present. is with us and we truly can move • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at his fourth with the ecological crisis “Though young men faint and grow When John F. Kennedy accepted forward, not relying upon our own 1-888-275-9953, or we face today. The pope’s fifth point weary and youths stagger and fall, the nomination for his presidency strength, but relying upon his. May [email protected] deals with the need for hope and they that hope in the Lord will re- in 1960, he announced a vision of a hope inspire us and keep us moving State Offices:50 E. Robinson St., Suite the need to build a culture of “fra- new their strength, ... They will new frontier for our nation. He fol- forward even when obstacles seem G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; ternal encounter.” soar as with eagle wings” (Is 40:30, lowed through on this vision in so insurmountable. Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- As Pope Francis culminates his 31). Pope Francis is an excellent many ways including sending an A blessed and hope filled New free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 message on hope, it is a good one example of one who hopes in the American to walk on the moon for Year to all. n for us to reflect upon as we begin Lord and does not grow weary de- which we just celebrated the 50th EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade the new year. He states that, “Hope APPOINTMENTS Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez is thus the virtue that inspires us BISHOP’S SCHEDULE Father Scott Adams, from Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu and keeps us moving forward, even Office Manager: Kristen Maheu when obstacles seem insurmount- Jan. 12 – 11 a.m., Mass and pastor observance of Dr. Martin Luther King parochial vicar of St. Juliana Parish, Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko able.” Quoting St. John of the Cross, installation of Father Mario Castañeda, Jr. Day West Palm Beach, to parochial ad- St. Rita Church, Wellington Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael the Pope stresses that “We obtain Jan. 21 – noon, luncheon with Dioc- ministrator of St. Martin de Porres Carlock Jan. 13 – 10:30 a.m., meeting with esan Services Appeal Partners, Admirals Parish, Jensen Beach. Advertising Graphic Designer: all that we hope for.” Pope Francis the New York Partnership Group, Pasto- Cove Country Club, Jupiter Michael Jimenez expounds that “We can find inspi- Father Brian Campbell, from ral Center, Palm Beach Gardens ration in the love that God has for Jan. 22 – 11 a.m., prayer vigil, an- parochial vicar of Our Lady Queen Have a comment/want more info/ each of us: a love that is liberating, Jan. 14 – 10:30 a.m., meeting with niversary of Roe v. Wade, Palm Beach of the Apostles Parish, Royal Palm have a story suggestion? Leave your limitless, gratuitous and tireless.” the Presbyteral Council, Pastoral Center; County Courthouse, West Palm Beach; Beach, to parochial administrator feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; He expresses how fear is frequently 1 p.m., meeting with the College of 6:30 p.m., reception and dinner, Caritas of St. John of the Cross Parish, Vero click reader feedback link in the top menu. a source of conflict and it is impor- Consultors, Pastoral Center; 7 p.m., Dei, The Breakers Hotel, Palm Beach Beach. RCIA presentation, Cathedral of St. Send statewide news releases to tant for us to overcome our fears by Jan. 23 – 10 a.m., Mass, Cardinal Father Mario Castañeda, from Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens [email protected] acknowledging our dependence Newman High School, West Palm Beach pastor of St. John Fisher Parish, upon God who loves us and calls Jan. 16 – noon, luncheon with Dioc- West Palm Beach, to pastor of St. Jan. 24 – noon, luncheon with us to himself. As we begin the new esan Services Appeal Partners, Quail Rita Parish, Wellington. All contents copyright © 2020, The Florida Diocesan Services Appeal Partners, year, it is good to begin with this Ridge Country Club, Boynton Beach Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from Grand Harbor Golf and Beach Club, Father Benedict Redito, from Catholic News Service. journey of hope. parochial vicar of St. Helen Parish, The world, indeed, has much Jan. 18 – noon, Mass at the Men’s Vero Beach Rally, Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola Vero Beach, to parochial adminis- suffering and unhappiness within Jan. 26 – 1 p.m., Confirmation, St. trator of St. John Fisher, West Palm it. It seems that our present time is Jan. 20 – Pastoral Center closed in Joseph Church, Stuart Beach. one that is so much lacking in hope

The Florida Catholic (ISSN 0746-4584) publishes semi-monthly for the Dioceses of policy and standards in Catholic Press Association. The appearance of advertising in in all media. Political advertising not accepted. Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, Orlando, Palm Beach and Venice for24 per year in Florida,30 per year in the U.S., and95 these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services and products. Com- FL 32862 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The per year foreign, by The Florida Catholic Inc., 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, FL plaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or to your local Florida Catholic, P.O. Box 4993, Orlando, FL 32802-4993. Member, Catholic Press As- 32801-1619. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertisements contrary to paper’s Better Business Bureau. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising sociation; subscriber to Catholic News Service (CNS). A3 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020

SUMMARY OF PALM BEACH DIOCESE NON-PAROCHIAL COLLECTIONS — JULY 2018 TO JUNE 2019

July August September September Diocese Non-parochial Collections 2018 2018 2018 2018 Church in Latin 2018 Disasters Catholic Relief America/ Respect Life/ Parish/mission name and city Emergency of Palm Beach Services Church in Migrants Collection Africa Financial Ascension, Boca Raton $ 1,266.00 879.00 747.00 — Emmanuel, Delray Beach $ 8,268.86 2,215.43 1,088.00 7,292.00 Holy Cross Church, Indiantown $ 1,417.00 — 1,126.77 1,221.00 Report Holy Cross Church, Vero Beach $ 4,806.00 4,013.00 3,787.00 — Holy Family Church, Port St. Lucie $ 874.00 975.00 1,401.14 — s we have reported in the past, Holy Name of Jesus, West Palm Beach $ 3,222.00 3,106.00 3,153.00 803.00 the chart to the right reflects Holy Redeemer, Palm City $ 2,572.94 3,039.25 2,857.97 14,039.75 the details associated with Holy Spirit, Lantana $ 2,198.16 1,949.60 1,798.65 1,843.75 A Juan Diego Centro, Fort Pierce $ 1,594.00 2,016.00 3,142.00 — the monthly non-parochial collections taken up in the parishes. Parishes Mary Immaculate, West Palm Beach $ 1,011.60 712.00 851.00 — submit the total amount received Notre Dame Mission, Fort Pierce $ 333.00 368.00 251.00 478.00 for a given collection directly to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, Fellsmere $ 584.25 1,072.13 602.65 1,373.79 diocesan Finance Office which, in turn, Our Lady of Lourdes, Boca Raton $ 2,962.82 2,711.88 5,283.03 — forwards the funds to the Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Delray Beach $ 306.00 212.00 213.00 772.00 appropriate party. Our Lady Queen of Peace, Delray Beach $ 938.00 1,446.00 1,472.00 — Most of these Our Lady Queen of the Apostles, Royal Palm Beach $ 3,017.50 3,130.50 2,630.50 — collections fall under Sacred Heart Church, Lake Worth $ 2,081.25 2,079.00 1,976.00 — — the philanthropic Sacred Heart Church, Okeechobee $ 663.89 1,126.94 1,162.66 St. Anastasia, Fort Pierce $ 979.00 858.00 956.00 1,252.00 authority of the U.S. St. Andrew Church, Stuart $ 1,162.00 460.00 516.58 — Conference of Catholic St. Ann, West Palm Beach $ 252.69 316.03 311.38 — Bishops’ Office of St. Bernadette, Port St. Lucie $ 2,612.00 1,760.00 1,987.00 2,265.00 National Collections, which St. Christopher, Hobe Sound $ 6,648.00 2,905.00 2,973.00 27,339.00 receives the proceeds from dioceses St. Clare, North Palm Beach $ 2,478.00 1,843.00 2,129.00 — across the country and sends the St. Edward, Palm Beach $ 1,412.00 1,594.00 2,041.00 4,444.00 funds to the ultimate beneficiaries. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Port St. Lucie $ 1,596.00 1,453.00 1,332.00 1,488.00 Some collections are shared between St. Francis of Assisi, Riviera Beach $ — 20.00 — 741.00 the U.S. conference beneficiary and St. Helen, Vero Beach $ 4,908.00 3,859.00 3,742.00 4,538.00 the local diocese. Other collections St. Ignatius Loyola Cathedral, Palm Beach Gardens $ 3,477.65 3,722.53 3,091.21 — are designated for the exclusive use St. Joan of Arc, Boca Raton $ 3,678.00 3,677.00 3,478.00 5,736.00 of the Diocese of Palm Beach. St. John Fisher, West Palm Beach $ 1,606.35 1,317.11 1,503.00 — This chart reflects some instances St. John of the Cross, Vero Beach $ 5,641.00 3,683.70 3,483.20 — where there is no dollar amount St. John the Evangelist Church, Boca Raton $ 1,742.19 1,460.82 1,858.44 2,369.00 shown for a particular parish and St. Joseph Church, Stuart $ 3,598.00 3,841.00 3,696.00 4,221.00 collection. This simply means the St. Jude Church, Boca Raton $ 3,282.75 3,870.60 2,924.50 — collected amount was not reported St. Jude Church, Tequesta $ 3,401.25 2,604.93 2,687.00 7,721.70 and submitted to the diocesan St. Juliana Church, West Palm Beach $ 3,637.00 3,382.00 3,289.00 — Finance Office within the required St. Lucie Church, Port St. Lucie $ 3,222.50 3,042.00 3,118.50 — 60 days of the scheduled collection. St. Lucy Church, Highland Beach $ 1,017.00 1,223.00 1,315.00 — More information is available on St. Luke Church, Palm Springs $ 3,666.00 7,216.00 3,385.00 — these websites: www.usccb.org/nation St. Mark Church, Boynton Beach $ 2,294.00 2,321.00 2,373.00 — alcollections; and www. St. Mark the Evangelist, Fort Pierce $ 1,444.00 1,509.00 1,469.00 2,858.00 diocesepb.org/finance- St. Martin de Porres, Jensen Beach $ 1,968.46 1,166.37 308.67 — documents. St. Mary Church, Pahokee $ 209.35 189.70 174.25 313.75 See the special four-page insert St. Matthew Church, Lantana $ 3,596.25 2,937.97 2,928.50 — in the center of this edition of the St. Patrick Church, Palm Beach Gardens $ 3,725.00 3,344.54 3,336.81 7,500.00 Florida Catholic — Pages B1-B4 — for St. Paul of the Cross, North Palm Beach $ 3,032.00 2,441.26 2,492.80 4,270.60 a full financial report, including a St. Peter Church, Jupiter $ 6,485.75 4,797.00 6,245.00 6,900.00 description for each of these collections. St. Philip Benizi, Belle Glade $ 775.00 454.00 1,432.00 1,446.00 St. Rita Church, Wellington $ 2,559.00 2,411.00 2,958.00 — St. Sebastian Church, Sebastian $ 1,169.25 2,109.00 1,124.00 3,378.00 St. Therese de Lisieux, Wellington $ 2,887.00 4,299.00 2,382.00 3,465.00 St. Thomas More, Boynton Beach $ 3,164.08 1,939.96 3,698.33 7,520.46 St. Vincent Ferrer, Delray Beach $ 1,459.97 1,368.87 628.65 6,204.41 Donations Received at Pastoral Center $ — — — — TOTALS $ 132,903.76 116,449.12 114,911.19 133,794.21 Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A4

SUMMARY OF PALM BEACH DIOCESE NON-PAROCHIAL COLLECTIONS — JULY 2018 TO JUNE 2019

October November December January February March April April May June 2018 2018 2018 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 World Mission Education of Catholic Campaign Retirement Catholic Black and Sunday/ Diocesan Seminarians Holy Land Communication/ for Human Fund for Education Peter’s Pence Indian Missions Propagation Retired Priests and Priestly (Good Friday) Catholic Development Religious Support Home Missions of the Faith Formation University 1,212.00 839.00 2,088.00 748.00 500.00 1,713.00 2,656.00 1,060.00 881.00 938.00 3,364.42 1,850.00 1,493.00 1,529.00 3,896.00 572.57 2,320.00 4,076.00 887.00 1,160.00 — 336.51 421.00 476.20 554.00 1,062.41 774.61 1,364.72 335.00 336.97 6,660.00 7,526.00 9,396.00 9,268.00 14,383.00 10,398.00 — 10,581.37 4,615.00 5,790.00 1,193.00 900.00 1,361.00 995.00 2,161.33 1,446.00 2,746.14 1,222.00 1,083.00 1,105.00 2,341.22 2,836.49 2,250.95 2,967.00 9,738.00 4,100.00 3,364.00 3,594.00 4,326.00 4,117.00 3,543.51 3,920.85 5,006.04 4,429.25 5,876.86 4,460.38 3,152.41 4,058.30 3,485.50 2,982.00 2,126.50 2,120.50 2,552.60 2,631.15 4,567.70 2,610.56 1,929.56 1,960.00 1,652.65 1,840.85 — 1,896.00 1,777.00 1,610.00 2,026.00 2,044.00 1,658.00 1,824.00 1,536.00 1,533.00 941.00 879.00 465.00 337.00 1,575.00 330.00 346.00 527.00 324.00 197.00 809.00 559.00 720.00 724.00 1,022.00 984.00 205.00 953.00 358.00 245.00 925.67 943.95 877.11 753.00 1,703.00 186.00 740.00 1,032.11 1,061.50 1,239.70 2,994.89 2,463.64 3,686.89 2,949.00 4,488.20 3,551.95 5,051.84 3,085.66 2,987.28 2,964.33 212.00 437.00 462.00 372.00 501.00 261.00 3,159.00 607.00 267.00 236.00 1,232.00 1,231.00 2,434.00 1,810.00 2,137.00 2,010.00 2,340.00 1,221.00 1,197.00 1,004.00 2,934.00 2,697.00 3,908.00 3,125.00 3,102.95 3,640.00 1,554.00 3,484.50 3,088.00 2,660.00 2,388.50 2,567.04 2,767.50 2,656.75 2,724.00 2,658.50 3,163.00 2,641.25 2,295.10 2,001.50 1,544.65 2,360.12 1,914.80 2,501.60 1,787.60 1,579.07 — 1,602.34 1,270.00 1,787.48 851.00 984.00 1,941.00 1,029.00 2,019.00 1,580.00 1,126.00 1,036.00 886.00 929.00 450.00 511.00 616.00 661.00 4,925.00 770.00 850.00 1,254.00 600.00 700.00 365.17 265.92 1,722.00 1,947.00 2,198.00 346.58 325.00 20.00 343.68 298.31 1,948.00 2,538.00 3,395.00 2,112.00 10,755.62 3,868.00 2,882.00 3,035.00 2,217.00 2,699.00 3,758.00 5,065.00 9,582.00 6,570.00 11,007.00 9,774.00 3,486.00 9,643.00 3,898.00 4,542.00 1,950.00 2,043.00 2,843.00 1,365.00 2,476.00 2,371.00 2,014.00 2,621.00 1,767.00 2,205.00 2,502.00 3,858.00 6,354.00 4,314.00 8,608.00 4,378.00 2,570.00 4,799.00 2,909.00 1,546.00 1,591.00 1,924.00 2,337.00 2,050.00 2,584.00 1,966.00 1,286.00 1,870.00 1,449.00 1,717.00 40.00 75.00 125.00 280.00 — 405.00 537.00 585.00 — 173.00 3,959.00 4,177.00 6,367.00 3,812.00 6,109.00 4,641.00 4,283.00 3,813.00 2,815.00 3,876.00 3,340.25 3,350.72 5,452.40 4,438.26 6,027.46 4,122.20 4,641.65 4,015.21 2,890.63 2,948.80 3,196.00 — 500.00 3,759.00 5,401.05 3,391.00 — 3,249.00 2,864.00 4,288.00 1,638.86 1,870.10 2,840.56 1,476.93 1,434.55 1,678.60 2,748.76 1,589.35 2,167.32 1,746.57 4,701.20 3,784.20 5,497.20 4,066.20 6,376.27 4,762.00 — 3,137.27 3,421.00 3,609.25 1,598.49 1,511.18 1,983.48 1,620.84 2,181.18 2,030.26 2,387.19 1,658.67 1,334.84 1,524.91 3,844.00 4,318.00 6,637.00 5,002.00 6,997.00 5,491.00 4,820.40 4,418.00 3,128.00 3,376.00 3,010.56 3,216.53 9,553.96 2,837.69 4,020.12 2,978.03 5,987.69 3,010.51 3,374.02 2,592.57 3,890.95 4,558.89 8,624.78 5,027.48 7,421.83 6,554.00 5,360.06 5,338.08 3,193.00 3,025.80 3,283.00 3,397.00 3,685.00 3,274.00 5,905.00 3,547.00 2,555.00 4,470.00 5,729.00 3,363.00 3,393.50 3,644.50 4,641.50 3,559.00 6,864.00 4,309.50 4,050.50 3,901.00 2,842.50 2,620.50 — 1,554.00 2,039.00 706.00 3,814.00 — 2,182.00 1,961.00 4,532.00 976.00 3,130.00 3,089.00 3,970.00 3,596.00 3,899.00 3,744.00 3,002.00 3,744.00 3,397.50 3,193.50 2,623.00 2,827.00 3,884.00 3,195.00 4,688.01 4,081.00 3,106.00 3,225.00 2,381.00 2,381.00 1,445.00 1,530.00 2,094.00 1,776.00 2,242.00 1,856.00 1,211.00 1,633.00 1,768.00 1,485.00 1,262.26 1,128.65 1,850.48 1,699.65 2,132.10 2,878.93 1,715.00 1,520.43 1,024.24 958.50 240.00 269.37 264.52 — 375.65 217.35 — 242.25 — — 3,761.00 3,352.70 3,427.00 3,351.61 4,233.10 3,994.40 3,231.50 2,564.00 2,751.85 3,121.25 3,801.16 250.00 5,400.39 5,590.11 9,463.63 6,503.80 3,915.00 5,551.00 3,735.00 3,946.68 2,671.23 3,504.35 4,179.00 4,647.17 7,442.50 4,923.50 3,158.00 1,855.00 2,994.00 2,715.66 5,516.00 6,447.00 5,253.00 4,242.00 5,086.00 5,693.00 3,122.25 5,880.25 3,137.00 3,492.00 1,142.45 1,012.00 688.00 1,182.50 619.00 620.50 2,083.00 736.00 465.00 534.00 2,729.00 2,985.00 2,845.00 3,767.00 3,052.00 2,832.00 3,877.00 3,571.00 2,646.00 2,784.00 828.00 1,570.00 7,386.00 1,367.12 5,774.12 1,146.00 2,408.12 1,108.12 485.12 1,909.12 1,106.30 2,369.00 2,179.75 1,651.00 2,073.00 2,239.00 2,363.95 1,712.00 2,061.00 1,902.00 3,092.75 2,245.95 1,772.29 1,652.35 6,631.01 1,724.52 3,003.60 1,009.56 1,457.87 831.06 446.48 327.02 2,126.90 2,833.05 7,257.00 2,296.18 5,611.74 1,010.34 735.40 1,578.17 50.03 25.00 700.00 — — — — 117,578.00 121,941.18 178,338.10 140,339.91 234,835.84 157,320.79 131,059.97 145,680.29 113,049.00 111,726.48 A5 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT WHY ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL IS SOMETHING GREATER “To be something greater means to go beyond oneself, to go beyond the St. Joseph Catholic School standard expectation. It is only when one raises the bar of expectation that we become something greater.” — Stacy McNerney, principal

In conjunction with the launch won the golf championships from The Early Childhood Program of the “Something Greater” 2017-2019, and the boys basketball at the school fosters a Christ-cen- MISSION STATEMENT campaign, the Diocese of Palm team and cross-country team won tered, nurturing environment to Beach Office of Catholic Schools the most recent championships. young children in the Little Lambs, St. Joseph Catholic School, began the “School Spotlight” The jazz and symphonic bands voluntary pre-kindergarten and rooted in Gospel values and cen- series in August. This initiative both received first place and a kindergarten programs. The tered on the Eucharist, celebrates is focused on showcasing the the uniqueness of each child superior award at the Univer- school will realize its vision for by providing a safe, nurturing Catholic schools throughout sal Studios Music USA Festival. the Early Childhood Program by the diocese that strive to be environment, promoting academic For the first time, the jazz band recognizing that the development excellence, encouraging service something greater in providing performed at this festival and an of the whole child is essential for strong academics, individualized to others and cultivating artistic eighth-grader received recogni- learning to take place; understand- self-expression. attention, a holistic education tion for his solo. Students have ing that human development can and full spiritual development. been invited to participate in four be stimulated and nurtured, not county honor bands, have been forced; recognizing the need and and has grown to include a choir. social teaching on the local, na- STUART | Students at St. Joseph a part of the Florida Band Mas- desires of young children to be It also was featured at a Christmas tional and global level. These ac- Catholic school are challenged by ters Association and the Florida exposed to experiences that will concert over the holiday season tivities include Carpenter’s Kitch- an academically rich curriculum Orchestra Association and have enable them to grow emotionally, and members played at the 9 a.m. en, the Long Sleeve Shirt Drive for taught by dedicated professionals received superior awards for their socially, physically, academically Sunday Mass at the parish. migrant farmers, Operation Rice using twenty-first century tech- solos/ensemble work under the and spiritually; and providing Bowl, the Kane Center, Run for nology and methodologies. They direction of both Chris Kalwa and timely learning experiences that INITIATIVES IN SUPPORT Life, Nick’s Pantry and Habitat for receive a well-rounded education William Lindner. promote the development of chil- OF A WHOLISTIC Humanity. that integrates the core subjects The school’s drama department dren while accommodating each EDUCATION Many of the food drives supply with the arts. has grown exponentially during child’s unique needs, interest, Students participate in a variety families in Pahokee with flour, In the science subjects, an the past few years in quality and abilities and talents. of community service and Chris- rice, oil, beans and sugar, as well eighth-grader placed fourth in size. High-quality musicals have tian social justice projects based as monetary donations. n the junior division for physics and increased student interest and at- FOSTERING OF on the seven principles of Catholic astronomy at the Florida State Sci- tention in our community. Under SPIRITUAL GROWTH IN ence Fair and received recognition the direction of Amy Rainis, the FACULTY AND STUDENTS from NASA this past year. Addi- drama department also started Being ever-present and mindful tionally, middle school students a junior thespian troop in which of the mission statement, students From left to right have moved on to higher rankings students compete in state-wide and faculty know, recite and re- are Olivia Robbins, at the Martin County Science Fair, competitions. visit the mission statement often. Evangeline Price, where they received awards in ar- St. Joseph Catholic School is Spiritual growth is achieved daily Natalie Sherry, and Maggie eas of physics, botany and engi- through school-wide morning home to a state-of-the-art com- Richerson, who neering. puter lab and well-stocked li- prayer led by the principal. As stu- are all students of Students also have the opportu- brary. Students are taught how to dents go along their day, teachers St. Vincent Ferrer nity to enter the Daughters of the use computer applications and integrate the mission into lessons Catholic School. American Revolution writing con- programs, and generate high qual- in all content areas. (COURTESY) test. This year, St. Joseph School ity, curriculum-related artifacts Opportunities for leading school was proud to have three middle with the technology. The school Masses, learning about faith school students win the contest for library houses over 8,000 volumes (saints, sacraments, liturgy, Scrip- their respective grades. Students and is equipped with internet ac- ture and morality) and becoming also participated in the Scripps cessible computers. involved in ministry are a priority Students advance bins (first place), seventh-grader Spelling Bee, with a fifth-grader for students at St. Joseph Catholic Evangeline Price (second place), moving on to the Martin County INDIVIDUALIZED School. Retreats and service proj- to Scripps and fourth-graders Natalie Sherry Spelling Bee. ATTENTION TAILORED ects provide real-life experience to and Maggie Richerson (both run- In the area of athletics, stu- TO EACH STUDENT put faith into action. Spelling Bee ner-ups). Olivia and Evangeline dents received the Treasure Coast With a long history of serving Based upon student interest, the DELRAY BEACH | St. Vincent will advance to compete in the 2020 Athletic Association Sportsman- the community through Catholic school’s music department intro- Ferrer Catholic School in Delray Southeastern Florida Scripps Dis- ship Award, which demonstrates education, the school recognizes duced a praise band to the various Beach had four finalists move on trict Spelling Bee March 10 at Boca true sportsmanship in all areas of the importance of laying a strong faith-based activities available for to the Southeastern Florida Scripps Prep International School. The win- sports among other schools in the faith and academic foundation at student participation. The praise Spelling Bee competition, held Dec. ner of the district bee will then have league. In addition, students have an early age. band held its first concert last year 5. The final four were narrowed an opportunity to compete at the down to eighth-grader Olivia Rob- regional level. Feast of the Holy Innocents celebrated

WEST PALM BEACH | On the the space full for the feast day. feast of the Holy Innocents, Dec. “Priests from Vero Beach to Belle 28, Mass was celebrated in the Glade have celebrated Mass here Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel of and it’s a blessing to have them the Holy Innocents, an apostolate lead us in prayer for the sanctity for life in the West Palm Beach of life.” William E. Boyes location of Miracle House. Cele- The chapel was built as a part brants Father Dominic Toan-Tran of Birthline/Lifeline Pregnancy John Farina of St. Joan of Arc Parish in Boca Care Center, honoring the unborn Peter Matwiczyk Raton and Deacon Miguel Muñoz who have been lost to abortion. of St. Juliana Parish in West Palm Mass is offered at 9:30 a.m. every • Wills, trusts and guardianship litigation Beach and the Cathedral of St. Ig- Saturday, followed by adoration of • Estate and trust planning and administration natius Loyola in Palm Beach Gar- the Blessed Sacrament until noon. dens were just one of hundreds of It is also open to the public during Deacon Miguel Muñoz kneels priests that have celebrated Mass office hours for quiet reflection. 3300 PGA Blvd., Suite 600 [email protected] before the altar in the Our Lady in the chapel. To learn more about the chapel, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 [email protected] of Guadalupe Chapel of the Holy Jim Kolar, who oversees the contact Miracle House at 561-478- 561-694-7979 [email protected] Innocents. (COURTESY) chapel’s care, was thrilled to see 5433. 11202-0110 Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A6

held on the school grounds. Visit COMMUNITY tinyurl.com/MardiGrasSCCS. SOCIAL MEDIA TV MASS EVENTS 19th Caritas Christi Gala: The Diocese of Palm Beach is excited DPBYouth); Catholic Young Adults of The Diocese Televised Mass airs Jan. 18, 5-11 p.m., Willoughby to engage with its stakeholders on Palm Beach (@CYAPB); Diocese of Palm every Sunday 10:30-11 a.m. on CW34 Country Club, 3001 S.E. Doubleton St. Peregrine Healing Mass: social media. Please follow us and Beach Family Life (DIocesePBFamilyLife); WTVX. For more information, please Jan. 11, 9 a.m.; St. Thomas Dr., Stuart. Benefiting our More Church, 10935 S. Military Educational & Outreach Ministries. join the conversation on our various Catholic Charities Palm Beach (@ visit www.diocesepb.org/tv-Mass. Trail, Boynton Beach. The St. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, Facebook pages. Diocese of Palm CatholicCharitiesPB); Diócesis de To support the televised Mass or to Peregrine Mass is celebrated dancing, casino-style gambling. Beach (@DiocesePB); Diocese of Palm Palm Beach-Pastoral Hispana (@ request a free Mass missal, please call for those suffering from cancer $175 per person. Call 772-291- 561-775-9561 or mail a request to 2892. Beach Office of Catholic Schools (@ DiocesePBHispanicMinistry), and and terminal diseases, and for the Office of Communications, 9995 their families and friends. Mass is Stand for Life: Jan. 19, DoPBCatholicSchools); Palm Beach Father Albert Dello Russo (@ held second Saturdays in the St. 2-3 p.m., Vero Beach. Indian Vocations (@PBVocations); Diocese ChancellorPalmBeach). N. Military Trail, P.O. Box 109650, Palm Peregrine Garden or in the chapel River County citizens are invited of Palm Beach Youth Ministry (@ Beach Gardens, FL 33410. if it is raining. Mass is always to stand on Route 60, from 20th followed by anointing of the sick Avenue westward for one hour to given by Father Julian Harris or silently proclaim the sanctity and Vero Beach. Tuesdays, women Office of Family Life. Father Alex Vargas. dignity of all human life, from and children at 9:30-10:45 a.m.; Taizé Prayer Service: Jan. RETREATS/DAYS Paul Todd & Son Concert: birth to natural death. Some signs Tuesdays, men and women at 23, 7:30-8:30 p.m., St. Vincent de Jan. 12, 3-5 p.m.; St. Matthew will be available, but participants 7-8:15 p.m.; Thursdays, men only Paul Regional Seminary, 10701 OF PRAYER Church, 6090 Hypoluxo Road, Lake are welcome to bring their own. at 6:45-7:45 a.m. Books available S. Military Trail, Boynton Beach. Catholic Men for Jesus Worth. Hosted by St. Matthew Contact Marie Ferretti, respect life for $25. Visit sthelenvero.org/ Taizé Prayer is a program founded Parish Council of Catholic Women. ministry coordinator at St. Helen spiritual-life/bible-study/. Rally: Jan. 18, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the 1940s in an ecumenical Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Musical entertainers Paul Todd Parish, at [email protected]. Spiritual Healing Through monastic community located & Son will sing and play various “Music at St. Patrick” 9999 North Military Trail, Palm Prayer Ministry: St. Jude in Taizé, France. Taizé prayer Beach Gardens. Guest speakers instruments, featuring the Best of Free Concert Series: J a n . 1 9 , Church, 21689 Toledo Rd., Boca includes repetition of simple, Broadway. Tickets: $20 (concert 3 p.m.; St. Patrick Church, 13591 include Chris Stefanick, host of Raton. Personal private healing contemporary chants based “Real Life Catholic” on EWTN, only), $45 (concert and dinner). Prosperity Farms Rd., Palm prayer for those in need of on the Psalms or other parts Available after Mass in the parish Beach Gardens. SINGULARITY and internationally renowned physical, emotional, relational, or of Scripture incorporated with speaker Jimmy Wahlberg, CEO center, in the parish office during – saxophone quartet. Free spiritual healing through prayer. periods of silence, meditative business hours, or by telephone admission, with a free-will of Wahl St. Productions, director Appointments available on first readings from Scripture, prayers of “If Only” and other films on with a credit card. offering, open to the public. three Mondays of the month from of praise and intercession. Visit Contact Alan Bowman, director substance abuse. This free event Mardi Gras Festival: Jan. 17- 7-8:30 p.m. in Mt. Carmel Hall. taize.fr/en or contact Mathew also includes Mass with celebrant 19, noon-8 p.m., St. Clare School, of music, 561-626-8626 or alan@ Contact Chantal at 561-302-1204. Jacob at [email protected]. stpatrickchurch.org. Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito and 821 Prosperity Farms Road, Stations of the Cross for Monthly Mind Mass to free breakfast and lunch. Register Parish Mission with Jon North Palm Beach. This three-day priests: Fourth Saturdays, remember departed souls: a catholicmenforjesusflorida.com. festival of carnival rides, games, Leonetti: Jan. 20-22, 7-8 p.m., following 8:30 a.m. Mass, Second Saturdays, 10 a.m., Our Our Lady of Florida Spiritual entertainment and great food is St. Lucie Church, 280 S.W. Prima Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, Vista Boulevard, Port St. Lucie. Center: Retreats and programs 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach 10941 Southern Blvd., Royal Palm available for clergy, religious, Endorsed by Matthew Kelly of Gardens. 561-371-1658. Beach. 561-793-0711, Mlexima@ Dynamic Catholic. Free and open men, women, married couples, TREASURES OF THE CHURCH: Monthly holy hour of prayer ourqueen.org. singles and people in recovery to the public. Jan. 20: Who is God and adoration: Last Thursdays, School of Christian AN EXPOSITION OF SACRED RELICS and why does it matter? Jan. 21: programs. Location: 1300 7 p.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius Formation: Designed for adult U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Presented by Father Carlos Martins God’s Dream for Your Life. Jan. 22: Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Catholics who want to better Let’s Be Saints. Call 772-878-1215. Beach. 561-626-1300 or www. of the Companions of the Cross Beach Gardens. Sacrament of know the Catholic faith and share ourladyofflorida.org. Women of Grace: Jan. 24, reconciliation available. Evening it with others through ministry. Over 150 relics including the 10:30-11:30 a.m.; St. Helen of simple praise and worship of English and Spanish classes. Cost: largest Piece of The True Cross will be Church, 2085 Tallahassee Ave., Jesus present in the Eucharist. $10. Schedules: www.diocesepb. displayed. Also, a swatch of the Veil Vero Beach. Women of Grace Social follows. 561-622-2565. org/school-of-christian-formation. CATHOLIC of the Blessed Mother will be shown. Foundational Study Program, Prayer gathering: Fridays, 561-775-9544, aaguilera@ CHARITIES EVENTS Other Relics for veneration include “Full of Grace: Women and the 5 p.m., on the sidewalks near A diocesepb.org. Abundant Life.” Discover the Woman’s World Medical Center Unbound healing prayer: Catholic Charities Respect those of St.Peter, St. Paul, St. Theresa gift of authentic femininity, of Avila, St. Therese of Lisieux, (the that offers abortion services, 503 First and third Mondays by Life Ministry seeks volunteers to holiness of life, and God’s take on roles as respect life parish Little Flower), St. Dominic, and St. S. 12th St., Fort Pierce. 772-465- confidential appointment. Diocese awesome purpose and mission 8298. of Palm Beach Office of Marriage representatives. Contact Deanna Francis of Assisi. Please join us in for you in the world today. An and Family Life. Proven prayer Herbst, 561-360-3330, dherbst@ this evening of Grace. informational meeting will be model designed to help those ccdpb.org. held in the St. Francis room. DIOCESAN EVENTS who try but struggle with the Holy hour: First Fridays, Monday, Feb. 3 at 6:30 p.m. Nine-session study program meets same sins time and again and feel 10:30 a.m., Cathedral of St. Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon, Sacred Heart Church Made for More: Jan. 23, 7-9 hopeless in search for freedom. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Military beginning Feb. 7. Registration, 425 North M Street p.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius 561-775-9524, cloh@diocesepb. Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. Prayer cost of study materials and Loyola, 9999 North Military Trail, org. and adoration for those suffering Lake Worth, FL 33460 ordering information will be Palm Beach Gardens. Where Protection of Children after abortion and miscarriage. available at the informational do we come from and where and Young People: Victims Respite services to St. Lucie meeting. Advance registration is are we going? Join Christopher of abuse by church personnel County caregivers: Short-term required. Call 772-794-7626 or visit West and Mike Mangione as are encouraged to contact the or temporary care of a few hours womenofgrace.com. they weave presentations with Diocesan Victim Assistance a week. 561-360-3321. Come and See Bible Study: live music, movie clips, YouTube Coordinator, Lorraine Sabatella, Match grant program: Now until April 30, St. Helen videos, and sacred art for an at 561-801-0999. Office of Safe Services available for qualifying Church, 2085 Tallahassee Ave, evening of beauty and reflection Environments provides safety individuals legally admitted into 13650-0110 on the meaning of life, love and resources, guidance and education the United States under specific human destiny. Appropriate and training to employees, all statuses. Program is designed to audience ages 14 and older. Visit church personnel and volunteers. facilitate client’s self-sufficiency corproject.com/madeformore. Visit: www.diocesepb.org and through employment. Refugees, For tickets visit, corproject.com/ click on Offices/Safe Environments asylees, Cuban and Haitian Marcia J Mills, Attorney PLLC events/west-palm-beach. For or www.diocesepb.org/safe- entrants, and victims of trafficking questions, contact Beth Zanotelli; environments. can call for information and Licensed FL MD DC NY [email protected] in the appointments. 561-345-2000. Rosary gathering: First Saturdays, 9 a.m., near Presidential Women’s Center in 40 years of experience West Palm Beach, 100 Northpoint Parkway, West Palm Beach. Led by Simple Wills: $100 Respect Life Office. 561-360-3330. Prices starting at $2,499 ~ with Airfare Included in this price from anywhere in the USA Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy; France, Portugal, and Spain; Poland; ANNOUNCEMENTS Trusts • POAs • Deeds • Probate Medjugorje, Lourdes, and Fatima; Ireland and Scotland; England; Austria, Germany, and Switzerland; Greece and Turkey; Budapest; Prague; Our Lady of Guadalupe; Domestic Destinations; etc... Catholic radio stations: Home Visits No Extra Charge Fr. Augustine Clark, Retired pastor of Nativity Catholic Church, Longwood FL, is chaplain WPBV FM (98.3 FM, www.wpbv for pilgrimage to Passion play including Germany, Switzerland, France 6/25-7/6/2020 13580-0110 radio.com); WJPP (100.1 FM, www.wjppfm.com); and WDMC We also specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests, and Deacons. 4440 PGA Blvd., Ste. 600 12905-0110 (920 AM, www.divinemercyradio. 561-472-8400 www.proximotravel.com • Hablamos Español • [email protected] com). Palm Beach Gardens, FL 508-340-9370 • 855-842-8001 • Call us 24/7 A7 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Seminary opens doors to DSA donors CECILIA PADILLA to the seminary for Mass, lunch the annual young adult retreat, of the Florida Catholic staff and a tour of the campus, led by conferences led by Msgr. Toups, a Palm Beach seminarians Alain certificate program in seminary BOYNTON BEACH | Many Waterman, Maxwell Villwock formation and a master’s program might not know that enrollment at and Daniel Donohue. Msgr. Da- in theological studies and another St. Vincent de Paul Regional Semi- vid Toups, rector of the seminary, in philosophical studies for mis- nary in Boynton Beach has doubled gave an overview of the semi- sionary discipleship. in recent years. Father Alfredo Her- nary’s mission, history and func- “We first give thanks to God for nandez, vice rector and academic tions in preparing men for priest- his generous blessings, and, sec- dean at the seminary, said that en- hood. ond, to the incredible people who rollment increase is a good sign that “Among those who toured the continue to support the seminary the Catholic Church is thriving. seminary, some had not visited through their giving to the DSA,” On Dec. 11, select donors to the before or didn’t know what exactly Father Hernandez reflected. n Diocesan Services Appeal were preparing for priesthood entails,” invited to the seminary to witness Father Hernandez said. “I hope To learn more about the Diocesan how their generous donations sup- Msgr. David Toups, right, rector of St. Vincent de Paul Regional that donors were able to see that Services Appeal, visit dsa.diocesepb. port young men discerning dioc- Seminary in Boynton Beach, leads prayer during the DSA in Action the funding we receive through the org for a video message by Bishop esan priesthood. This event, titled event. (COURTESY) Diocesan Services Appeal enables Gerald M. Barbarito and to down- “DSA in Action,” is the second of its seminarians to pursue their stud- load a brochure on the distribution kind, following a previous tour of tory, but also brings with it the chal- the Diocesan Services Appeal, the ies in theology, pastoral work and of DSA funds. Donations can be the programs and ministries office lenges of updating facilities and community continues to invest in much more.” made online or by contacting David of Catholic Charities Palm Beach expanding to meet the needs of its young men, just as we continue Moreover, donors discovered Walsh at 561-775-9590. For more located at the St. Francis Center in the growing number of students,” to generate quality vocations that the variety of programs available to information about St. Vincent de Riviera Beach. Father Hernandez said. “As a priest serve the community.” the lay community. These include Paul Regional Seminary, visit svdp. “The seminary is 57 years old. of Palm Beach, my greatest hope The DSA in Action event wel- Mass open to the public Wednes- edu or call 561-732-4424 or follow @ That comes with a lot of great his- for the seminary is that, through comed approximately 25 donors days at 12:15 p.m., a lecture series, SVdPSem on Facebook. St. Vincent de Paul expects hundreds at statewide retreat

CECILIA PADILLA campus for the day,” Crepin said. of the Florida Catholic staff “Religious from the Carmelite or- der, the Passionists and Franciscan BOYNTON BEACH | The young friars, just to name a few, will lend men at St. Vincent de Paul Re- their perspective on vocations.” gional Seminary are looking for- Built into the retreat’s activities ward to hosting young adults from is a “come and see” experience for throughout Florida at this year’s anyone curious about seminary Young Adult Retreat Feb. 1. life. Seminarians leading the re- “This year’s retreat theme is treat are also arranged in such a ‘And the Word was Made Flesh,’” way that young adults will have the said Sean Crepin, a first theology opportunity for one-on-one dis- seminarian. “This is also the semi- cussion about spirituality, theol- nary’s larger theme for the year, ogy and more. Crepin said because and I’m excited to be giving the many seminarians will assist at the keynote lecture on this topic to all retreat, participants might find it the young adults looking for spiri- easy to have “more intimate mo- Above and below, seminarians from the 2019 young adult retreat lead a spiritual talks for the young tual growth.” ments with individual retreat lead- adults who visited St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach. (COURTESY) This annual one-day retreat is ers rather than moving from one open to young adults from Flori- large group to another throughout said. da’s seven dioceses, and includes the day.” The retreat will be held Feb. 1, talks given by the seminarians and Eddiel Rivera, a second-year from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. To register, Gift Baskets Are Our Specialty! guest speakers, holy hour adora- theology seminarian, assisted visit svdp.edu/project-page. Cost tion, small group activities, fellow- with organizing last year’s retreat, is $30, or $25 for a group of five or ship over meals and music, and a which was attended by 250 people. more. Includes meals and T-shirts. concluding Mass celebrated by “The joy that these young peo- To learn more about the seminary Msgr. David Toups, rector of the ple brought with them and their and young adult events, follow @ seminary. openness of heart while here really SVdPSem on Facebook or visit “What I find most compelling made it a fruitful experience,” he svdp.edu. n about the young adult retreat is that it is an entirely student-run initiative,” Crepin said. “Under the guidance of the seminary faculty, we come together to lead our fellow Call us today and talk to one of our young adults in a day of prayer and reflection. I think this aspect al- Basket Designers to create your perfect gift at lows us to relate and connect more deeply with the participants since 561-775-0105 we are facing many of the same is- Or see our selection online at www.Carmines.com sues on our spiritual journey.” The seminary has hosted the Shipments available anywhere in the U.S.

retreat for the past 10 years, but 13218-0110 what makes this year particularly special is the retreat’s coinciding with World Day for Consecrated Life Feb. 2. “We will have many religious on Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY A8 Young local artist paints image of Jesus and children

STAFF REPORT been drawing and painting since age 4. “I first sketched the images PALM BEACH GARDENS | (of the mural) on paper and then The playground fence just north of used a black marker to recreate the parish center of St. Patrick in the sketch on the fence, which had Palm Beach Gardens now features already been treated with white a mural. It is the work of artist and primer. I then filled the shapes in parishioner, Priska Lambert, who with acrylic paint and outlined ev- is a senior at Dreyfoos School of the erything in black acrylic and oil. It Arts in West Palm Beach, where she was then set with a fixative specific majors in visual art. The mural de- for outdoor use. The entire process picts children surrounding an im- took approximately 60 hours.” age of Jesus, and the style is based Since completing the mural, on contemporary cartoons, captur- many have admired Lambert’s ing Lambert’s natural creativity and work, inquiring about any plans flair for interpretation. for a future career in the arts. She “I was inspired by my memories hopes to attend college for a double of all the books I read growing up major in fine arts and European with images of Jesus surrounded history, a minor in linguistics. by children. I wanted to represent To learn more about St. Patrick a very diverse and inclusive group Parish, visit stpatrickchurch.org or Priska Lambert, a high school student and parishioner of St. Patrick Parish in Palm Beach Gardens, painted of children,” said the artist who has call 561-626-8626. n the image of Jesus and children on the parish’s playground fence. (COURTESY)

The life-size Parish CCW hosts Advent retreat nativity ALEEN STANTON Guadalupe, I chose to present ma- at St. Lucy Florida Catholic correspondent terial on the original Aztec text of Parish in the apparition taken from the Nican Highland TEQUESTA | The Council of Mopohua,” he said. Beach Catholic Women at St. Jude Par- Nican Mopohua, or Huei Tla- was ish in Tequesta held its first Advent mahuitzoltica, wrote narrations dedicated retreat Dec. 11, the eve of the feast about the apparitions of the Lady on Dec. day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Liz of Guadalupe in Nahuatl, the Aztec 13 as a Schauer, parish council president, language. Although the original of public invited Deacon Les Loh to moder- his work has not been found, a copy display. ate the day of reflection. He said he was first published in Nahuatl by (ALEEN was “thrilled” at the turnout of 57 Luis Lasso de la Vega in 1649. It was STANTON women. translated by the Indian scholar | FC) The retreat began with reflec- Antonio Valeriano around the mid- tion based on a companion guide dle of the 16th century. Betty Gillespie, left, and Mary written by Father John Bartunek on Deacon Loh walked the women Roff light the candles of the Our Lady of Guadalupe, “A Woman through a meditation on one’s per- Advent wreath displayed at Mayor calls life-size parish Clothed with the Sun.” In reference sonal devotion to Mary through the the Advent retreat. (ALEEN to this text, Deacon Loh said how story of Juan Diego in the apparition STANTON | FC) Mary is a “woman of Advent.” of Guadalupe, focusing on Christ’s Nativity ‘awe-inspiring’ “She prepares us for God’s return coming as the conquering of sin the council’s spirituality commit- and, because this retreat is on the and death. tee and a Catholic convert from ALEEN STANTON bring the real meaning of Christ- eve of the feast day of Our Lady of Rhonda Jones, chairwoman of Judaism, spoke of her personal ex- Florida Catholic correspondent mas to the public. perience after attending a Catho- “As a parish community, we lic conference at the Shrine of Our HIGHLAND BEACH | Father recognized that we had to do Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico. Jones D. Brian Horgan, pastor of St. something more to bear witness

13621-0110 was asked to share this experience Lucy Parish in Highland Beach, to our faith in a world that’s filled at the retreat as witness to Mary as dedicated the parish’s new life- with darkness,” he said. “We look an icon of Advent preparation. size nativity Dec. 13, the feast day to St. Lucy who, by her example, “On my return home (I realized) of St. Lucy. Funded by the gener- her faith and her devotion, bore I had forgotten to pray for someone osity of parishioners, the nativity the light of Christ in a world of while at the shrine but, in that mo- sits on top of the berm in front of darkness. We too are called to be ment, I felt I heard Mary saying to the church on South Ocean Bou- light bearers. We must always look me, ‘Don’t worry. You are taking me levard, prominently displayed for for opportunities to evangelize.” home with you,’” she recalled. passersby. Msgr. Stephen C. Bosso, visiting Jones expressed her gratitude in Following its dedication and from St. Vincent de Paul Regional having received the original text of blessing, there was a welcome Seminary in Boynton Beach, de- the Nican Mopohua at the shrine. home dinner to celebrate the re- scribed the creche as “beautiful.” She said the story of Juan Diego and turn of St. Lucy Parish’s winter pa- “It’s a great public demonstra- his devotion to the Blessed Mother rishioners. There were 180 people tion of our faith,” he added. at Guadalupe “is a beautiful story.” in attendance, including High- Therese Tavino, extraordinary The reflection was followed by a land Beach commissioners and minister of the Eucharist, said the luncheon, and afterward an Advent Rhoda Zelniker, mayor of High- celebration was “tear-jerking” for wreath was lit and the women spent land Beach. her. “The creche is just so beauti- time in prayer. n “This is awe inspiring,” the ful and I have to thank Father Hor- mayor said. “I have been to the gan for being a wonderful pastor For information on the Council of nativity in Bethlehem and sat un- to this community.” n Catholic Women at St. Jude Parish, der the olive tree. I am Jewish but email Liz Schauer at lizschauer@ can appreciate that the nativity is St. Lucy Parish is located at 3510 S. bellsouth.net. To learn more about for everyone to enjoy.” Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach, Flor- the parish, visit stjudecatholic- Father Horgan said the life-size ida 33487. Visit stlucycommunity. church.net or call 561-746-7974. nativity was a wonderful way to com or call 561-278-1280. WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Jan. 10-23, 2020 FLORIDACatholic Diocese of Palm Beach financial statement JANUARY 2020

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

new year and a new decade is upon us. Certainly, at this time, it is important for us to take a step back and reflect upon how very blessed we are in our diocese. We continue to grow as a family of faith with a deep love of God and a strong dedication to His Church. How truly appropriate that the 2019 Diocesan Services Appeal (DSA) theme of “Faith Working Through Love” coincided with the celebration of the 35th anniversary of our diocese as a particular Church here in south Florida. As is customary at this time, we invite you to review our annual examination of the financial results of the administrative offices of our Diocese of Palm Beach for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019. The financial statement information contained herein is derived from the “Report on Audits of Financial Statements,” which was again prepared by the independent accounting firm of Templeton & Company, LLP. The actual audit report was thoroughly reviewed by our audit committee and accepted by the diocesan finance council at its recent December meeting. The financial presentation and information contained in this publication is not in the same format as the actual auditors’ report. For our purposes here, a numerical and graphical summary is used to present our financial information, which, over the years, has proven to be a clear, meaningful and informative method to communicate this important news. I trust you will find it so once again. We regularly report our financial results in a four- page supplement to the Palm Beach edition of the Florida Catholic and this year, we continue to include both this version as well as a copy of the actual auditors’ report on our website (www.diocesepb.org). This supplemental information presents the current status of the 2019 DSA campaign by parish, with approximate percentages of DSA goal achieved to date. In addition, we include a schedule of the results of the special national collections taken up this past year which go to support the critical needs of our Church throughout the country and the world. If you have any specific questions or comments regarding this financial supplement, I ask that you contact the Diocesan Finance Office directly for additional information. We remain mindful of our sacred obligation for the proper stewardship of these financial gifts and of our continuing pledge of full accountability and financial transparency. I remain deeply grateful and wish to express my heartfelt thanks for your prayers and support as we continue to work together to support and sustain the mission and ministries of the Diocese of Palm Beach. May God bless you and watch over you throughout this new year! With every prayerful wish, I am Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Rev. Gerald M. Barbarito, Bishop of Palm Beach Faith Working Through Love B2 PALM BEACH FINANCIAL STATEMENT Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Statement of Activities, by fund, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2019 Operating Plant Self-Insurance Skaff Senior Eliminating Summary Fund Fund Fund Housing Fund Entries Assets Diocesan Services Appeal $ 9,211,958 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 9,211,958 23% Insurance program $ — $ — $ 5,410,497 $ — $ (257,924) $ 5,152,573 12% Contributions and bequests $ 1,162,006 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 1,162,006 3% Programs and services $ 2,119,630 $ — $ — $ — $ (657,568) $ 1,462,062 4% Net investment return $ 3,705,465 $ — $ — $ 338,136 $ — $ 4,043,601 10% Interest and dividends $ 772,517 $ — $ 221,711 $ 78,977 $ — $ 1,073,205 3% Special events, net $ 211,939 $ — $ — $ —- $ — $ 211,939 1% Rental income $ 204,000 $ — $ — $ —- $ — $ 204,000 1% Cemetery care deposits $ 356,624 $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 356,624 1% Contribution for Skaff Senior Housing Fund $ — $ $ $ 16,323,227 $ — $ 16,323,227 42% Other income (loss), net $ 1,160 $ 6,000 $ (4,089) $ — $ — $ 3,071 0% Totals $ 17,745,299 $ 6,000 $ 5,628,119 $ 16,740,340 $ (915,492) $ 39,204,266 100% Expenses Program services Social services $ 3,355,975 $ — $ — $ — $ (13,231) $ 3,342,744 9% Diocesan and clergy leadership $ 1,372,669 $ — $ — $ — $ (15,390) $ 1,357,279 3% Education $ 3,626,319 $ — $ — $ — $ (9,356) $ 3,616,963 9% Seminarians, deacons and women $ 1,578,439 $ — $ — — $ (12,331) $ 1,566,108 4% religious $ Outreach, parish and mission support $ 1,193,290 $ — $ — $ — $ (128,910) $ 1,064,380 3% Supporting services Self-insurance program $ — $ — $ 5,320,325 $ — $ (657,568) $ 4,662,757 12% Plant and facilities $ 214,122 $ 923,674 $ — $ — $ (52,390) $ 1,085,406 3% Chancery administration $ 3,488,691 $ — $ — $ 572 $ (26,316) $ 3,462,947 9% Guarantee of indebtedness $ (25,333) $ — $ — $ — $ $ (25,333) -1% Gain on sale of property $ — $ (3,802,860) $ — $ — (3,802,860) -10% Change in post-employment benefit $ 165,084 $ — $ — $ — $ $ 165,084 1% obligation Contribution to lay pension plan $ 500,000 $ — $ — $ — $ $ 500,000 1% Contribution for Skaff Senior Housing Fund $ 2,021,385 $ — $ — $ (2,021,385) $ $ — 0% Change in net assets $ 254,658 $ 2,885,186 $ 307,794 $ 18,761,153 $ — $ 22,208,791 57% Totals $ 17,745,299 $ 6,000 $ 5,628,119 $ 16,740,340 $ (915,492) $ 39,204,266 100% Statement of Financial Position, by fund, at June 30, 2019 Operating Plant Self-Insurance Skaff Senior Eliminating Summary Fund Fund Fund Housing Fund Entries Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 11,876,137 $ $ 12,745,738 1,070,418 $ — $ 25,692,293 23% $ Portfolio investments $ 39,933,810 $ — $ — 5,123,374 $ — $ 45,057,184 39% $ Receivables from diocesan entities, net $ 2,307,137 $ $ 59,887 — $ — $ 2,367,024 2% $ Pledge receivable $ 1,507,221 $ — $ — 12,458,335 $ — $ 13,965,556 12% $ Other receivables $ 140,633 $ — $ — — $ $ 140,633 1% $ Other current assets $ 230,789 $ — $ 1,834,630 — $ — $ 2,065,419 2% $ Property and equipment, net $ — $ 23,643,178 $ — — $ — $ 23,643,178 21% $ Due from funds $ 2,817,086 $ — $ — 109,026 $ (2,926,112) $ — 0% $ Totals $ 58,812,813 $ 23,643,178 $ 14,640,255 18,761,153 $ (2,926,112) $ 112,931,287 100% $ Liabilities and Net Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 2,041,753 $ 83,968 $ 192,680 — $ (19,566) $ 2,298,835 2% $ Self-insurance reserves $ — $ — $ 1,318,932 — $ — $ 1,318,932 2% $ Annuities payable $ 71,946 $ — $ — — $ — $ 71,946 1% $ Deferred revenue 39,017 $ — $ — — $ — 39,017 1% $ Post-employment benefit obligation $ 671,842 $ — $ — — $ — $ 671,842 1% $ Guarantee of indebtedness reserve $ 2,245,917 $ — $ — — $ — $ 2,245,917 2% $ Net assets $ 53,742,338 $ 20,652,664 $ 13,128,643 18,761,153 $ $ 106,284,798 91% $ Due to funds $ — $ 2,906,546 $ — — $ (2,906,546) $ — 0% $ Totals $ 58,812,813 $ 23,643,178 $ 14,640,255 18,761,153 $ (2,926,112) $ 112,931,287 100% $ B3 PALM BEACH FINANCIAL STATEMENT Jan. 10-23, 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org PALM BEACH FINANCIAL STATEMENT B4 PAROCHIAL RESPONSE TO 2019 DSA STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES, Parish/mission name and city 2019 DSA Goal DIOCESAN COLLECTIONS (as of Dec. 19, 2019) percentage collected FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 Revenues Ascension, Boca Raton 100 + JULY 2018 TO JUNE 2019 Diocesan Services Interest and Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens 100 + Revenues Appeal dividends Funds Month collected Collection title collected Emmanual, Delray Beach 97 + Diocesan Services Appeal $ 9,211,958 23% 5,152,573 Holy Cross, Indiantown 96 + Insurance Program $ 12% Insurance program Special events, net July 2018 Catholic Relief $ 132,904 1,162,006 Services Holy Cross, Vero Beach 100 + Contributions and Bequests $ 3% 1,462,062 Contributions and Rental income Church in Latin Programs and Services $ 4% August 2018 America / $ 116,449 Holy Family, Port St. Lucie 96 + bequests Net Investment Return $ 4,043,601 10% Church in Africa Holy Name of Jesus, West Palm Beach 100 + Cemetery care Interest and Dividends $ 1,073,205 3% September 2018 Respect Life / $ 114,911 Holy Redeemer, Palm City 100 + Programs and deposits Migrants Special Events, net $ 211,939 1% services Holy Spirit, Lantana 91 + 2018 Disasters Rental Income $ 204,000 1% Contribution for September 2018 Emergency $ 133,794 Mary Immaculate, West Palm Beach 85 + Cemetery Care Deposits $ 356,624 1% Net investment Skaff Housing Fund Collection Notre Dame Mission, Fort Pierce 100 + Contribution for Skaff Housing Fund $ 16,323,227 42% return World Mission October 2018 Sunday $ 117,578 Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, Fellsmere 100 + Totals $ 39,204,266 100% Campaign for Our Lady of Lourdes, Boca Raton 100 + November 2018 Human $ 121,941 Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission, Delray Beach 100 + Development Expenses Retirment Fund for Our Lady Queen of Peace, Delray Beach 58 + December 2018 Religious $ 178,338 Program services Expenses Social services Chancery Our Lady Queen of the Apostles, Royal Palm Beach 85 + 3,342,744 administration Catholic Education Social Services $ 9% January 2019 Support $ 140,340 Sacred Heart, Lake Worth 94 + Diocesan and Clergy Leadership $ 1,357,279 3% Diocesan and clergy leadership Change in post- February 2019 Diocesan Retired $ 234,836 Sacred Heart, Okeechobee 100 + Education $ 3,616,963 9% employment benefit Priests St. Anastasia, Fort Pierce 97 + Seminarians, Deacons and Women Religious $ 1,566,108 4% Education obligations Education of Seminarians St. Andrew, Stuart 100 + Outreach, Parish and Mission Support $ 1,064,380 3% March 2019 $ 157,321 Contribution to Lay and Priestly St. Ann, West Palm Beach 100 + Seminarians, deacons Formation Supporting services and women religious Pension Plan St. Bernadette, Port St. Lucie 68 + Self Insurance Program $ 4,662,757 12% Holy Land/Good April 2019 Friday $ 131,060 Change in net assets St. Christopher, Hobe Sound 100 + Plant and Facilities $ 1,085,406 3% Outreach and mission support April 2019 Peter’s Pence $ 145,680 St. Clare, North Palm Beach 100 + Chancery Administration $ 3,462,947 9% Guarantee of indebtedness Catholic St. Edward, Palm Beach 100 + Guarantee of indebtedness $ (25,333) -1% and gain on sale of property May 2019 Communication/ $ 113,049 Self-insurance Catholic University Gain on sale of property $ (3,802,860) -10% program represent a negative value, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Port St. Lucie 84 + and are not included in the pie 165,084 Black and Indian St. Francis of Assisi, Riveria Beach 100 + Change in Post-Employment Benefit Obligation $ 1% chart. June 2019 Missions / $ 111,726 Contribution to Lay Pension Plan $ 500,000 1% Plant and facilities Home Missions St. Helen, Vero Beach 85 + Change in Net Assets $ 22,208,791 57% See individual parish contributions on pages A2-A3 St. Joan of Arc, Boca Raton 88 + or visit: www.diocesepb.org/finance-documents Totals $ 39,204,266 100% St. John Fisher, West Palm Beach 100 + St. John of the Cross, Vero Beach 74 + Assets COLLECTION DESCRIPTIONS St. John the Evangelist, Boca Raton 100 + Cash and cash Other receivables July: Catholic Relief Services — Assists poor and hungry St. Joseph, Stuart 100 + STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION people abroad and immigrants and refugees to the United States. equivalents St. Jude, Boca Raton 76 + August: Church in Latin America and Africa — Funds pas- AT JUNE 30, 2019 toral projects in Central and South America, the Caribbbean, and Africa. St. Jude, Tequesta 100 + Portfolio investments Other current assets September: Respect Life/Migrants — Provides resources for St. Juliana, West Palm Beach 100 + Assets local pro-life activities and aid to migrant missions. Cash and cash equivalents $ 25,692,293 23% October: World Mission Sunday — Supports the Church’s St. Lucie, Port St. Lucie 100 + missions throughout the world. Portfolio investments $ 45,057,184 39% St. Lucy, Highland Beach 100 + Receivables from Property and November: Campaign for Human Development/Propa- Receivables from diocesan entities, net $ 2,367,024 2% diocesan entities, net equipment, net St. Luke, Palm Springs 85 + gation of the Faith — Provides financial assistance to projects in Pledge receivable $ 13,965,556 12% the United States that reduce poverty. St. Mark, Boynton Beach 96 + December: Retirement Fund for Religious — Assists reli- Other receivables $ 140,633 1% St. Mark the Evangelist, Fort Pierce 100 + Pledge receivable gious orders with financial support for elderly priests and sisters. Other current assets $ 2,065,419 2% January: Catholic Education Support — Provides direct sup- St. Martin de Porres, Jensen Beach 77 + Property and equipment, net $ 23,643,178 21% port to local Catholic schools within the Diocese of Palm Beach. St. Mary, Pahokee 100 + February: Diocesan Retired Priests — Provides support to Totals $ 112,931,287 100% retired priests within the Diocese of Palm Beach. St. Matthew, Lantana 79 + Liabilities and Net Assets March: Education of Seminarians and Priestly Forma- St. Patrick, Palm Beach Gardens 100 + tion — Assists the Church to cultivate and form future priests within the Diocese of Palm Beach. St. Paul of the Cross, North Palm Beach 100 + Liabilities and Net Assets Accounts payable Post-employment April: Holy Land — Support for Christians, all people, and sacred St. Peter, Jupiter 99 + Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 2,298,835 2% and accrued benefit obligation places in the Holy Land. St. Philip Benizi, Belle Glade 100 + Self-insurance reserves $ 1,318,932 2% expenses April: Peter’s Pence — Funding for the Holy Father to provide worldwide emergency relief as needed. Guarantee of St. Rita, Wellington 83 + Annuities payable $ 71,946 1% May: Catholic Communication Campaign/Catholic Self-insurance St. Sebastian, Sebastian 65 + Deferred revenue $ 39,017 1% indebtedness reserve University — Funds Catholic organizations that help spread the reserves good news through media and social networking, and provides student St. Therese de Lisieux, Wellington 82 + Post-employment benefit obligation $ 671,842 1% Net assets scholarships to attend The Catholic University of America. St. Thomas More, Boynton Beach 100 + Guarantee of indebtedness reserve $ 2,245,917 2% Annuities payable June: Black and Indian Missions and Home Missions — Net assets $ 106,284,798 91% Support for evangelization programs and Catholic communities in the St. Vincent Ferrer, Delray Beach 77 + United States. San Juan Diego, Fort Pierce 92 + Totals $ 112,931,287 100% Deferred revenue B3 PALM BEACH FINANCIAL STATEMENT Jan. 10-23, 2020 www.thefloridacatholic.org PALM BEACH FINANCIAL STATEMENT B4 PAROCHIAL RESPONSE TO 2019 DSA STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES, Parish/mission name and city 2019 DSA Goal DIOCESAN COLLECTIONS (as of Dec. 19, 2019) percentage collected FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2019 Revenues Ascension, Boca Raton 100 + JULY 2018 TO JUNE 2019 Diocesan Services Interest and Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens 100 + Revenues Appeal dividends Funds Month collected Collection title collected Emmanual, Delray Beach 97 + Diocesan Services Appeal $ 9,211,958 23% 5,152,573 Holy Cross, Indiantown 96 + Insurance Program $ 12% Insurance program Special events, net July 2018 Catholic Relief $ 132,904 1,162,006 Services Holy Cross, Vero Beach 100 + Contributions and Bequests $ 3% 1,462,062 Contributions and Rental income Church in Latin Programs and Services $ 4% August 2018 America / $ 116,449 Holy Family, Port St. Lucie 96 + bequests Net Investment Return $ 4,043,601 10% Church in Africa Holy Name of Jesus, West Palm Beach 100 + Cemetery care Interest and Dividends $ 1,073,205 3% September 2018 Respect Life / $ 114,911 Holy Redeemer, Palm City 100 + Programs and deposits Migrants Special Events, net $ 211,939 1% services Holy Spirit, Lantana 91 + 2018 Disasters Rental Income $ 204,000 1% Contribution for September 2018 Emergency $ 133,794 Mary Immaculate, West Palm Beach 85 + Cemetery Care Deposits $ 356,624 1% Net investment Skaff Housing Fund Collection Notre Dame Mission, Fort Pierce 100 + Contribution for Skaff Housing Fund $ 16,323,227 42% return World Mission October 2018 Sunday $ 117,578 Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, Fellsmere 100 + Totals $ 39,204,266 100% Campaign for Our Lady of Lourdes, Boca Raton 100 + November 2018 Human $ 121,941 Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission, Delray Beach 100 + Development Expenses Retirment Fund for Our Lady Queen of Peace, Delray Beach 58 + December 2018 Religious $ 178,338 Program services Expenses Social services Chancery Our Lady Queen of the Apostles, Royal Palm Beach 85 + 3,342,744 administration Catholic Education Social Services $ 9% January 2019 Support $ 140,340 Sacred Heart, Lake Worth 94 + Diocesan and Clergy Leadership $ 1,357,279 3% Diocesan and clergy leadership Change in post- February 2019 Diocesan Retired $ 234,836 Sacred Heart, Okeechobee 100 + Education $ 3,616,963 9% employment benefit Priests St. Anastasia, Fort Pierce 97 + Seminarians, Deacons and Women Religious $ 1,566,108 4% Education obligations Education of Seminarians St. Andrew, Stuart 100 + Outreach, Parish and Mission Support $ 1,064,380 3% March 2019 $ 157,321 Contribution to Lay and Priestly St. Ann, West Palm Beach 100 + Seminarians, deacons Formation Supporting services and women religious Pension Plan St. Bernadette, Port St. Lucie 68 + Self Insurance Program $ 4,662,757 12% Holy Land/Good April 2019 Friday $ 131,060 Change in net assets St. Christopher, Hobe Sound 100 + Plant and Facilities $ 1,085,406 3% Outreach and mission support April 2019 Peter’s Pence $ 145,680 St. Clare, North Palm Beach 100 + Chancery Administration $ 3,462,947 9% Guarantee of indebtedness Catholic St. Edward, Palm Beach 100 + Guarantee of indebtedness $ (25,333) -1% and gain on sale of property May 2019 Communication/ $ 113,049 Self-insurance Catholic University Gain on sale of property $ (3,802,860) -10% program represent a negative value, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Port St. Lucie 84 + and are not included in the pie 165,084 Black and Indian St. Francis of Assisi, Riveria Beach 100 + Change in Post-Employment Benefit Obligation $ 1% chart. June 2019 Missions / $ 111,726 Contribution to Lay Pension Plan $ 500,000 1% Plant and facilities Home Missions St. Helen, Vero Beach 85 + Change in Net Assets $ 22,208,791 57% See individual parish contributions on pages A2-A3 St. Joan of Arc, Boca Raton 88 + or visit: www.diocesepb.org/finance-documents Totals $ 39,204,266 100% St. John Fisher, West Palm Beach 100 + St. John of the Cross, Vero Beach 74 + Assets COLLECTION DESCRIPTIONS St. John the Evangelist, Boca Raton 100 + Cash and cash Other receivables July: Catholic Relief Services — Assists poor and hungry St. Joseph, Stuart 100 + STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION people abroad and immigrants and refugees to the United States. equivalents St. Jude, Boca Raton 76 + August: Church in Latin America and Africa — Funds pas- AT JUNE 30, 2019 toral projects in Central and South America, the Caribbbean, and Africa. St. Jude, Tequesta 100 + Portfolio investments Other current assets September: Respect Life/Migrants — Provides resources for St. Juliana, West Palm Beach 100 + Assets local pro-life activities and aid to migrant missions. Cash and cash equivalents $ 25,692,293 23% October: World Mission Sunday — Supports the Church’s St. Lucie, Port St. Lucie 100 + missions throughout the world. Portfolio investments $ 45,057,184 39% St. Lucy, Highland Beach 100 + Receivables from Property and November: Campaign for Human Development/Propa- Receivables from diocesan entities, net $ 2,367,024 2% diocesan entities, net equipment, net St. Luke, Palm Springs 85 + gation of the Faith — Provides financial assistance to projects in Pledge receivable $ 13,965,556 12% the United States that reduce poverty. St. Mark, Boynton Beach 96 + December: Retirement Fund for Religious — Assists reli- Other receivables $ 140,633 1% St. Mark the Evangelist, Fort Pierce 100 + Pledge receivable gious orders with financial support for elderly priests and sisters. Other current assets $ 2,065,419 2% January: Catholic Education Support — Provides direct sup- St. Martin de Porres, Jensen Beach 77 + Property and equipment, net $ 23,643,178 21% port to local Catholic schools within the Diocese of Palm Beach. St. Mary, Pahokee 100 + February: Diocesan Retired Priests — Provides support to Totals $ 112,931,287 100% retired priests within the Diocese of Palm Beach. St. Matthew, Lantana 79 + Liabilities and Net Assets March: Education of Seminarians and Priestly Forma- St. Patrick, Palm Beach Gardens 100 + tion — Assists the Church to cultivate and form future priests within the Diocese of Palm Beach. St. Paul of the Cross, North Palm Beach 100 + Liabilities and Net Assets Accounts payable Post-employment April: Holy Land — Support for Christians, all people, and sacred St. Peter, Jupiter 99 + Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 2,298,835 2% and accrued benefit obligation places in the Holy Land. St. Philip Benizi, Belle Glade 100 + Self-insurance reserves $ 1,318,932 2% expenses April: Peter’s Pence — Funding for the Holy Father to provide worldwide emergency relief as needed. Guarantee of St. Rita, Wellington 83 + Annuities payable $ 71,946 1% May: Catholic Communication Campaign/Catholic Self-insurance St. Sebastian, Sebastian 65 + Deferred revenue $ 39,017 1% indebtedness reserve University — Funds Catholic organizations that help spread the reserves good news through media and social networking, and provides student St. Therese de Lisieux, Wellington 82 + Post-employment benefit obligation $ 671,842 1% Net assets scholarships to attend The Catholic University of America. St. Thomas More, Boynton Beach 100 + Guarantee of indebtedness reserve $ 2,245,917 2% Annuities payable June: Black and Indian Missions and Home Missions — Net assets $ 106,284,798 91% Support for evangelization programs and Catholic communities in the St. Vincent Ferrer, Delray Beach 77 + United States. San Juan Diego, Fort Pierce 92 + Totals $ 112,931,287 100% Deferred revenue WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Jan. 10-23, 2020 FLORIDACatholic VENICE DIOCESE

Bishop Frank J. Dewane presides over the taping of the Christmas Day Mass for the Homebound on Dec. Students from St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton 17 in the Chapel of St. Patrick Parish in Sarasota. read books received from the Early Learning Coalition. St. Jude Parish Pastor Father Celestino Gutierrez presents a (SUSAN LAIELLI | FC) (COURTESY) toy as part of the Parish Program for the Needy. (COURTESY) Christmas celebrated across the Diocese BOB REDDY Cardinal Mooney serves others drives to benefit needy children in At left, Joseph leads of the Florida Catholic staff during Christmas, Page A4. the area with the generous response Mary on a donkey reaching beyond what was expected. to Bethlehem during Filipinos gather for Simbang a Jan. 4 Las Posadas The celebration of SARASOTA | Gabi, please see Page A3. Other fun activities included decorat- presentation of the Christmas is a time to recognize the ing cookies and trees, gift making and Nativity story at St. truth about Christ: our Incarnate Sav- wrapping, as well as pageants and Michael Parish in ior, the Son of God, both human and child, was a common sight in church- concerts, each to showcase the talents Wauchula. Below, St. divine. es in December. The result was that of the students. Agnes Parish, Naples, Bishop Frank J. Dewane stressed tens of thousands of gifts were dis- The Bishop Verot Catholic High hosted a living the importance of this reality when tributed throughout the region to lo- School National Honors Society in Nativity Dec. 18-19. speaking about the meaning and cal children. Fort Myers hosted young students (COURTESY PHOTOS) symbolism that we must recognize Also, part of the Christmas Season from St. Andrew Catholic School in and accept that on Christmas Day, were concerts with carolers to help ev- Cape Coral and St. Francis Xavier “the Savior, the Messiah, is sent to us. eryone get into the spirit of the com- Catholic School in Fort Myers to build In so doing, you and I become chil- ing Holiday. Christmas Eve was the gingerbread houses and decorate dren of God.” time for children’s Masses with the cookies. The true gift of Christmas is not the younger faithful participating in the Kindergarteners at St. Joseph Cath- presents found under a tree, but the retelling of the Nativity story. olic School in Bradenton visited a light God sent forth into the world, In what has become an annual nearby nursing home to sing carols to Jesus Christ and the example He pro- tradition, St. Agnes Parish in Naples spread holiday cheer. Students at the vides, Bishop Dewane added. hosted a Living Nativity, complete school also received a visit from Mrs. “That gift of light is with you and with a recreation of the town of Beth- Santa Claus who delivered books as me,” Bishop Dewane continued. “No lehem and live animals. part of a reading initiative from the matter where we find ourselves, that A common pre-Christmas cel- Early Learning Coalition. light of Christ rests with all of us. It is ebration at several Parishes in the The Key Club of St. John Neumann we who have to accept that, and when Diocese is “Las Posadas,” a tradition Catholic High School in Naples hosted we do, we become that child of God.” from Mexico and Central and South a “Holiday Gift Shop” for the Friends For Christmas, Bishop Dewane cel- America where the Nativity story is re- of Foster Children Forever. Families ebrated the Televised Mass for Home- told over the course of nine days. The came to the campus to choose from bound, which was recorded at St. Pat- highlight of the novena is one larger thousands of new toys that went to rick Parish in Sarasota. As the Bishop centerpiece gathering. One of the some very deserving foster children has in the past, he made a point to cel- more elaborate celebrations occurs at in the area. ebrate the Mass for the incarcerated St. Michael Parish in Wauchula. This Neumann students also helped in the region. This was accomplished year, the celebration was postponed pack 150,000 meals to help feed the Christmas Eve at the DeSoto Correc- due to weather until Jan. 4. In the re- needy in the local community. Food tional Facility in Arcadia and the day telling of the Nativity story, more than and toys were also delivered to the after Christmas at the Hardee Correc- 100 youth participated. Judy Sullivan Family Resource Center tional Institute in Bowling Green. Before the Christmas Break, Dio- of Catholic Charities. Christmas throughout the Diocese cese of Venice Catholic Schools joined The events and activities listed reflected the generosity of the faith- in the fun of the season by giving back represent a mere fraction of what ful toward those in need. The Advent to those in need while also holding took place in December at Parishes tradition of having a Jesse Tree, with their own celebrations. and schools across the Diocese of Students from St. Joseph Catholic School in Bradenton spread ornaments listing the wish of a needy Each school held their own toy Venice. n Christmas cheer at a nearby assisted living facility. (COURTESY) Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY A2

Bishop Frank J. Dewane is seen here with Archbishop Max Leroy Mésidor of Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, prior to a Jan. 1 Haitian Independence Day Mass at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs. At right, the community visits with the archbishop after the Mass. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) Haitians celebrate independence and unity BOB REDDY ever obstacles they may face in the of the Florida Catholic staff future, noting. In a gesture of gratitude toward BONITA SPRINGS | On the Bishop Dewane, Archbishop Mé- 216th anniversary of the first Inde- sidor noted that the Haitian Catho- pendent Republic in the Caribbean lic community within the Diocese in Haiti, the Diocese of Venice, of Venice is in good and capable in conjunction with the Haitian hands and thanked Bishop Dewane Catholic community, celebrated a for his support. Mass at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bishop Dewane thanked Arch- Bonita Springs Jan. 1, the Solemnity bishop Mésidor for being a guest of of Mary, Holy Mother of God. the Diocese and sharing his time, Nearly 1,000 people from wisdom and faith with the Haitian throughout the Diocese of Venice Catholic community in their na- attended the Mass which was cel- tive language. He also said it was an ebrated by Archbishop Max Leroy honor and privilege to participate Mésidor of Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, in such an important cultural and with Bishop Frank J. Dewane in religious celebration for the grow- attendance. There were several ing Haitian Catholic community in additional priests from the Dio- the Diocese. cese of Venice who concelebrated Bishop Dewane also thanked as well as priests from St. Leo the and recognized the Haitian priests A Jan. 1 Haitian Independence Day Mass at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs concluded with Great Parish serving in the Diocese for their con- the singing of the Haitian National Anthem. Archbishop Mésidor spoke about tinued dedication and passion for the celebration of the independence caring for the faithful, in particular of Haiti and how it importantly falls those in the Haitian community. upon a major celebration of the “The work you do does not go un- Blessed Virgin Mary and the World noticed,” the Bishop added. Day of Peace. This is particularly There are currently Masses cel- poignant in Port-Au-Prince where ebrated in Creole at the following in recent months there has been parishes: St. Charles Borromeo in unrest due to fuel and food short- Port Charlotte; St. Francis Xavier in ages and corruption in the govern- Fort Myers; St. Michael in Wauchu- ment. la; Sacred Heart in Bradenton; Our The Archbishop encouraged Lady of Guadalupe in Immokalee; those gathered to remember the and St. Peter the Apostle in Naples. sacrifice of Haitians and to use the The New Year’s Day celebration is example of Mary, for she said “Yes” one of the few times the entire com- to God with courage and grace. He munity can gather in one place. added that they should feel confi- With this in mind, following the dent in relying on Mary to give them conclusion of the Mass all joined the strength to be sons and daugh- in singing the National Anthem of ters of Jesus Christ. Haiti. Archbishop Mésidor added they For the Haitian community, Youth sing following a Jan. 1 Haitian Independence Day Mass at St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Springs. should be proud of their roots in Jan. 1 is both a spiritual day, and Haiti and that they will always be an emotional day commemorat- Haiti became the second country could eat soup because they were cooking and eating soup on New Haitian. With this in mind, the ing such an important day in their in the Americas to declare its inde- in the upper class. When Haiti Year’s Day in celebration of free- Archbishop encouraged every- homeland. It was in 1803 that the pendence. proclaimed its independence, all dom. In honor of this unique tradi- one to keep a connection to their Haitians defeated the largest and When the French were in con- Haitians started to eat soup so as tion, soup was offered at the meal homeland as well as with their faith most powerful army at the time, the trol, they enacted a law that said to demonstrate that everyone was that followed the Mass in Bonita which will serve them well in what- army of Napoleon, in Cap-Haitien. the French were the only ones who equal. Thus, began the custom of Springs. n A3 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Filipino Catholics unite in prayer for Christmas

BOB REDDY of the Florida Catholic staff

CAPE CORAL | Filipino Catho- lics across the Diocese of Venice and around the world have a cus- FLORIDA tom in preparation for Christmas of participating in a novena of Masses Catholic at Dawn known as Simbang Gabi. DIOCESE OF VENICE While celebrated at several par- ishes in the Diocese, 2019 was the Vol. 81, No. 5 first time the tradition was cele- brated at the Vatican by Pope Fran- 1000 Pinebrook Road cis. The Holy Father opened the cel- Venice, FL 34285 ebration at St. Peter’s Basilica Dec. 941-484-9543 • Fax 941-483-1121 15, Gaudete Sunday. “Through this celebration we PUBLISHER want to prepare ourselves for Bishop Frank Dewane Christmas according to the spirit DIOCESAN EDITOR of the Word of God that we have lis- Bob Reddy tened to, remaining constant until [email protected] the Lord’s definitive coming,” Pope 941-484-9543 Francis explained. The Simbang Gabi tradition in • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: the Philippines dates back to the Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, 17th century and was introduced to or customerservice@theflorida the Philippines by Spanish friars to catholic.org allow the farmers to hear Mass be- Above, food is served as part of the Simbang Gabi celebration Dec. 15 at St. Andrew Parish in Cape Notify us of address changes (temporary fore going to the fields early in the Coral. The Filipino tradition is part of a novena leading in preparation for Christmas. Below, singing is or permanent) as soon as possible. Please morning. Filipinos hang a star out- an important part of the Simbang Gabi celebration. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) change your address online at www. side their homes, and attend early thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at morning Masses on each of the nine 1-888-275-9953. days before Christmas. This tradition is also known • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at by its popular Spanish name as 407-373-0075 or [email protected] the Misa de Gallo, or “Mass of • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at the Rooster,” commonly indicat- 1-888-275-9953, or ing the pre-dawn Christmas Eve [email protected] Mass. The novena serves as spiri- tual preparation for Christmas, State Offices:50 E. Robinson St., Suite in commemorating the birth of G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- Jesus Christ. The celebration is free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 also seen as a way of requesting blessings from the Lord, as most EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: people believe that if one com- Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade pletes the whole series of nine Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez dawn Masses, wishes will be Copy Editor: Maurice Beaulieu Office Manager: Kristen Maheu granted. allows the Simbang Gabi Masses to luck dinner that was served with cal moment that is before the sun Advertising Manager: Valerie Casko Pope Francis said as Filipinos differ from the traditional Advent a variety of traditional delicacies rises. Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael have migrated throughout the Season readings and requirements. including rice cakes, seafood and This is an important and grow- Carlock world, their traditions and devo- This exception allows the readings noodle dishes, as well as pastries ing Catholic tradition as the faithful Advertising Graphic Designer: tions have followed. In the Diocese to be directly associated with the and other sweets. The choir sang prepare their hearts waiting for that Michael Jimenez of Venice, the full novena has been Christmas Season and the Church Christmas songs in English and dawn when the sun rises. The sun Have a comment/want more info/ celebrated at St. Maximilian Kolbe is also decorated while the priests Tagalog, the dialect known by most rise is associated with Jesus Christ, have a story suggestion? Leave your Parish in Port Charlotte for many wear white vestments. The excep- Filipinos, bringing with it a new hope, new feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; years. Where the Filipino Catholic tion to this guidance is if the Mass Tradition dictates that time life. click reader feedback link in the top menu. community is smaller, such as in is celebrated as part of Gaudete changes during this celebration It is believed that participating in Incarnation Parish, Sarasota, and Sunday, which maintains its prece- of the Holy Mass for the novena. It the novena of Masses brings many Send statewide news releases to St. Andrew Parish, Cape Coral, ab- dence. is no longer the same moment of blessings, mostly for the family. [email protected] breviated novenas were observed. As at the Vatican, the Simbang Advent that is celebrated during Some also believe that if you attend- Although this tradition is not ex- Gabi Mass at St. Andrew Parish was the day, everything becomes Sim- ed the Simbang Gabi you would find All contents copyright © 2020, The Florida clusive to Filipinos, its observance is on Gaudete Sunday. Following the bang Gabi, but when the sun rises your future spouse, which naturally Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from strong and distinctive in the Philip- Mass there was a reception in the it returns to the Advent Season. It increased the popularity of the tra- Catholic News Service. pine Catholic culture. The Holy See Parish Hall where there was a pot- is because we are living that magi- dition. n

The Florida Catholic (ISSN 0746-4584) publishes semi-monthly for the Dioceses of Or- per’s policy and standards in Catholic Press Association. The appearance of advertising in all media. Political advertising not accepted. Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, lando, Palm Beach and Venice for $26 per year in Florida, $32 per year in the U.S., and in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services and products. Com- FL 32862 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The $95 per year foreign, by The Florida Catholic Inc., 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, plaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or to your local Florida Catholic, P.O. Box 4993, Orlando, FL 32802-4993. Member, Catholic Press As- FL 32801-1619. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertisements contrary to pa- Better Business Bureau. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising sociation; subscriber to Catholic News Service (CNS). Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY A4 Cardinal Mooney teens give to community

STAFF REPORT

SARASOTA | St. Mother Teresa once said, “It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School in Sarasota loves tak- ing part in giving back to the com- munity from serving meals to the homeless to food and toy drives. To kick off the giving season, Mooney students and staff partici- pated in a Thanksgiving food drive that provided more than 65 fami- lies with a full Thanksgiving meal as well as served over 200 homeless lunch in the downtown Sarasota area Nov. 27. The Cardinal Mooney chapter of the St. Vincent de Paul Society collected new toys to support An- drew’s Toybox and delivered them Dec. 19, just in time for Christmas, to the pediatric wards of Sarasota and Manatee Memorial Hospitals. The 60 residents of Sunshine Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School students in Sarasota collected Meadows Nursing Home in Sara- toys for needy children for Christmas. (COURTESY PHOTOS) sota received items on their Christ- mas list Dec. 13, as part of an ef- service during their four years at a freshman, already has over 330 fort by the Cardinal Mooney staff the college preparatory school. community service hours, mostly as well as by different members of Most students have more than the with the Sarasota County Summer clubs on campus. Also taking part 100 hours, including senior Aaron Camp Program. Students sort through toys collected for needy children for Christmas. of the giving season was the Car- Dhanhai who has 612 hours, with The family environment of dinal Mooney Cougar Band which 550 of those hours as a volunteer Cardinal Mooney Catholic High prepares students to serve and lead courses; duel enrollment; and performed at the Sarasota-Braden- at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Ju- School fosters spiritual growth and by nurturing spiritual growth, culti- learning strategies programs. Stu- ton International Airport and Uni- nior Mallory Allbritton has more prepares all students to become vating the talent of all students, and dent-athletes participating in over versity Town Center mall to help than 440 hours with Sarasota Di- servant leaders in the world by per- challenging them to pursue aca- 30 athletic teams have won district, bring cheer to those travelling and saster Relief Services, 4H and Fu- forming over 30,000 community demic excellence. sectional, and regional titles with shopping during the holidays. ture Farmers of America. Allyson service hours a year. As a nationally accredited three state titles this year. With a All students at Cardinal Mooney Galvin, a sophomore, has 330 hours Cardinal Mooney Catholic High school, Mooney is now offering 100 percent acceptance rate to col- participate in giving back through working on various service projects School, a Christ-centered, college the new rigorous AP Capstone di- lege, Cardinal Mooney graduates community service and are re- with Our Lady of Angels Parish in preparatory institution is celebrat- ploma; as well as full honors cur- earned more than $9 million in quired to complete 100 hours of Lakewood Ranch. Cooper Flerlage, ing its 60th Anniversary. The school riculum; Advanced Placement scholarships in 2019. n

PRINCIPAL’S CORNER Spirit is alive at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School

MARIA NIEBUHR What sets St. Elizabeth Seton teachers taught remotely as best God’s unique creation — his chil- (science, technology, religion, Special to the Florida Catholic apart is the sense of closeness as they could. dren. She said on each child’s face, engineering, arts and math) club, a family community. Seton stu- However, the school communi- she sees the child Jesus. This feel- master gardening classes and the- NAPLES | Nestled in the heart of dents know they are a part of the ty yearned to return to its beloved ing permeates throughout our fac- atrical performances embody the Naples, within a modest neighbor- school family that is an classrooms. Our prayers ulty and staff, inspiring us to cre- “whole child” concept. hood just off Golden Gate Parkway, extension of their own. were answered when a ate a mutual sense of caring, close- I welcome you to visit St. Eliza- lies St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic You need only walk family in the contract- ness, and respect with our students beth Seton Catholic School. We School. Founded in 1981, the school through the doors of ing business stepped up and their families. will gladly open our doors so you bears the name of the first Amer- the school to feel a dif- to expedite repairs and The school’s spirit is alive and and your family may see firsthand ican-born saint and is in keeping ference, to experience renovations. Donations continues to grow. We are small the unique, uplifting spirit that in- with her spiritual gifts of courage, the wholesome, lov- poured in from across enough that teachers know all spires us to follow in the footsteps determination, faith and love. ing personality of the the country, making the students and their families of our foundress. I will be happy Through hard work, dedication school. In short, a pres- a reopening possible. though large enough to offer a to give you a tour of our special and the support of parishioners and ence of the spirit exists When another school full range of academic rigor and school, where academic excel- community partners, the school throughout its halls, was hit by a hurricane, extra-curricular experiences. We lence, faith, values and commu- was handcrafted by the very fami- courtyards and class- Maria Niebuhr our community quickly offer a music program complete nity come to life each day. lies that wanted their children to rooms. came to their aid, just as with beginner and concert bands, Visit SaintElizabethSeton.com have a quality, Catholic education. The spirit of St. Elizabeth Seton they helped us in our time of need. as well as a full range of competi- or call 239-455-2262. You are Since those humble beginnings, is alive and well. The school and Our entire staff and faculty tive athletic offerings from volley- also welcome to attend our Open St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School Church’s dedication to children, exemplify faith in action. Maria ball to cross country. Our 1:1 iPad House from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. carries on their legacy through rich education and the poor shone as Crowley, who has taught at St. Eliz- program in grades 5-8, and class Jan. 26 and experience the differ- traditions rooted in family values a beacon of hope in the aftermath abeth Seton for 30 years, is just one iPads in grades K-4, allow us to ence. n and faith in action. The tradition of Hurricane Irma in 2017. The of the many role models who lives create an engaging, technology- continues with the large number of campus suffered major damage, our faith. Teaching is more than a driven curriculum, while our di- Maria Niebuhr serves as principal alumni who have children enrolled forcing it to close our doors for profession to Crowley. It is her vo- verse selection of after school ac- of St. Elizabeth Seton School in in our school. 18 days. Thanks to technology, cation, one inspired by her love of tivities such as Art Club, STREAM Naples. A5 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Mass to honor Widows and Widowers Jan. 26 in Naples STAFF REPORT ‘Widows and widowers Throughout Scriptures we are are not forgotten but reminded to care for widows and are in fact recognized widowers who are protected by God. For this reason, the Bishop and in particular revered Frank J. Dewane is celebrating the by the Church. The Holy annual Mass for all widows and widowers at 3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. Father has called upon 26 at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 625 111th North Avenue, Naples. widows and widowers A dinner will follow in the Parish to use their experiences Hall. In 2019 hundreds of widows and to help the young and widowers were recognized during poor; showing them the the first Mass at Epiphany Cathe- dral in Venice. The response was tenderness of God and overwhelmingly positive and was his closeness in love.’ described by several as beautiful and touching. — Bishop Frank Dewane Bishop Dewane said this Mass is A table with photos on display at the reception following a Mass for widow and widowers on Jan. 20, an important opportunity to rec- 2019, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) ognize those who have suffered the loss of a spouse. The Bishop called forgotten but are in fact recog- the widows and widowers an inspi- nized and in particular revered by ration and gift to the community the Church,” Bishop Dewane said. as they stand strong in their faith, “The Holy Father has called upon even with the loss that may con- widows and widowers to use their tinue to strike them hard. experiences to help the young and The concept for the Mass grew poor; showing them the tender- out of the annual Mass honoring ness of God and his closeness in couples celebrating significant love.” wedding anniversaries. Those The celebration will include Masses, which will be held Feb. 1 at a display of photos available for Epiphany Cathedral in Venice and viewing during the reception. and Feb. 29 at St. Leo the Great Par- Should an attendee wish to share a ish in Bonita Springs, are extraor- photo for the display, they can ei- dinarily popular. At the conclusion ther bring the image to the event, of one such Mass, a volunteer not- email it to ardy@dioceseofvenice. ed that she would have attended org, or mail it to Diocese of Venice, the anniversary Mass but for the Attn: Family Life Office, 1000 Pine- fact that her spouse had recently brook Road, Venice, Florida 34285. passed away. This planted the seed To register, or for further in- for what has now become the an- formation about the Widows and nual Widows and Widowers Mass. Widowers Mass with Bishop De- (Registration for the Anniversary wane, visit www.dioceseofvenice. Masses is through your Parish.) org/calendar, or call 941-484- Bishop Frank J. Dewane speaks during a Mass on Jan, 20, 2019 for widows and widowers at Epipany “Widows and widowers are not 9543. n Cathedral in Venice. EPIPHANY BLESSING OBITUARY Retired priest and iconographer dies SANIBEL | Msgr. Anthony A. May 27, 1961 at the Cathedral of St. Within the Diocese of Venice, La Femina, a retired priest and ico- Jerome in Montreal, Canada. For Msgr. La Femina assisted at several nographer who previously served the Diocese of Saint-Jérôme, in the parishes and including in 1998 as as Administrator of St. Province of Quebec, Administrator of St. Isabel Parish Isabel Parish on Sani- Canada, in Sanibel. Prior to his retirement in bel, died Dec. 30, 2019. served in parishes in 2008, Msgr. La Femina also served He was 86. Rosemère, Deux-Mon- in the Diocese of Charleston as Di- Msgr. La Femina tagnes, before serv- rector of the Office of Volunteers. was born Nov. 19, 1933 ing on the Diocesan Most recently, he was Chaplain to in New Haven, Conn., Tribunal, then as the the Knights of Columbus Bishop and was one of three Vice-Chancellor and Charles B. McLaughlin Assembly children of Anthony later as Chancellor of 1818 in Venice. and Natalie (D’Amato) the Diocese. In addition to serving as a priest, La Femina. Msgr. La Femina monsignor was a well-known ico- In his academic was appointed as an nographer. Images he created were formation, Msgr. La official at the Congre- most notably used worldwide dur- Femina attended Msgr. Anthony gation for Divine Wor- ing the 2000 Jubilee. He was also a On Jan. 5, the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord and of Epiphany A. La Femina Cathedral in Venice, Bishop Frank J. Dewane presided over a Providence College, ship of the Holy See scholarly author. trilingual Mass (English, Spanish and Polish). This annual tradition Dominican Fathers, Seminaire de in 1969 and served there for many He is survived by numerous includes the different language communities that are based at the Philosophie and Grand Seminaire years. He was incardinated in the relatives. A funeral will take place Cathedral. At the beginning of the Mass, Bishop Dewane blessed in Montreal, Quebec, Cana-da, Diocese of Venice, from the Diocese at 10 a.m., Jan. 18, at Epiphany Ca- the Cathedral where it is inscribed 20+C+M+B+20 (the year and University of St. Paul in Ottawa, of Saint-Jérôme, in December 1986. thedral, 310 Sarasota St., Venice. A the initials of the three magi) above the main interior entrance Ontario, Canada, and Angelicum He also served as an official of the viewing will take place starting at to the Church. (BOB REDDY | FC) in Rome, Italy. He was ordained Pontifical Council for the Family. 8:30 a.m. n Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY A6 Agency’s evenings are dedicated to charity

STAFF REPORT “These Catholic Charities Ga- las and events are of critical im- VENICE | Now is the time of portance as it brings like-minded year that people are planning and faith-filled people together their busy seasonal social sched- for a good cause,” explained ule with lots of interesting activi- Catholic Charities Diocese of ties to choose for evenings of el- Venice Inc. CEO Philomena egance or just casual fun. Pereira. “Each gathering serves While choosing from the many to help educate people about a opportunities southwest Florida critical need in the area, while at has to offer, consider these events the same time offering everyone for a chance to give back to the chance to have fun.” community. Proceeds go directly The upcoming events will be to help our broth- centered on various themes and ers and sisters in benefit either regional or specific Christ who are in programs of Catho- need through the lic Charities. Many many programs of of the Balls will Catholic Charities include a cocktail Diocese of Venice, hour, auction, din- The March 23, 2019, Emerald Ball was held at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort in Naples to benefit the Inc. ing and dancing. programs of Catholic Charities. (FILE PHOTO) In most cases, the Catholic The list of events is as follows: Charities galas are elegant black- • Jammin’ for the Mamas for mya.widmyer@catholiccharities- • Our Mother’s House Wine lege of Florida, Bradenton, $25, tie affairs, but no matter what the Our Mothers House, Jan. 13, dov.org; Tasting, Auction and Dinner $20, $35 per person, 941-74-5448; attire, all of the proceeds will go Boca Royale Golf and Country • Boots and Bandannas Dinner Dance, Feb. 27, Venice Commu- • Venetian Charity Ball, March directly to help those in the com- Club, Englewood, $50, call 941- Dance, Feb. 15, Kingsway Coun- nity Center, Venice, $85 a person, 21, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, munity where the event is held. 485-6264 or 941-662-7787, joyce. try Club, Port Charlotte, $75 per 941-485-6264 or joyce.scott@ Bonita Springs, $250 a person, This means that buying a ticket [email protected]; person, 863-494-1068, desotoad- catholiccharitiesdov.org; call 239-334-4007 or mya.wid- could help feed families, teach • Sugar Bowl Show of Shows min.assistant@catholiccharities- • Emerald Ball, March 7, Ritz- [email protected]; children to read or even prevent North Port, Jan. 25, North Port dov.org; Carlton Beach Resort, Naples, • AFCAAM of Catholic Charities some from becoming home- Performing Arts Center, 6400 W. • Bethesda House Mardi Gras $400 a person, call 239-455-2655 Charity Golf Classic, April 17, For- less. Beginning in late January Price Blvd. North Port, $20 or $25 Madness, Feb. 22, Art Ovation or email paola.pinillos@catholic- est Country Club, Fort Myers, 239- through April there are 10 chanc- a person, 941-426-8479; Hotel, Sarasota, $150 a person, charitiesdov.org; 728-4571 or tduffy1942@gmail. es to support Catholic Charities • Catholic Charities Ball, Feb. 941-355-4680, ext. 301 or mya. • Sugar Bowl Show of Shows com. in an entertaining and unique 8, Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $300 a widmyer@catholiccharitiesdov. Bradenton, March 14, Neel Per- For information, visit www. way. person, 941-355-4680, ext. 31 or org; forming Arts Center, at State Col- catholiccharitiesdov.org. n

WHO’S MAKING IT HAPPEN? Former surgeon cuts to the heart of the matter

SUSAN LAIELLI through the refurbishment of the St. Jude,” he laughs. “What are the Special to the Florida Catholic Parish’s outdoor Stations of the chances of that?” Cross, which appeared rundown Parishioners can see the colorful SARASOTA | For much of his next to the new walkway surround- metal Stations of the Cross current- career as a general surgeon in both ing a serene lake filled with beauti- ly on display at St. Jude Parish, but Chicago and a small Kansas town, ful birds. mostly Ugarte can be seen during Dr. Fernando Ugarte admitted “This is one of those little mira- Sunday Mass at Our Lady of the An- he didn’t make too much time for cles for me, that I still find shock- gels Parish, where he only trained Church outside of Sunday Mass. ing,” Ugarte explained. to be a Eucharistic Minister three That changed dramatically since When he was 7 years old and at- years ago. his retirement three years ago with tended Jesus Hostia Parish in Lima, “Oh, I was extremely nervous, a move to southwest Florida, and Peru, Ugarte grew up admiring the I was shaking like a leaf the first an influx of time and talent. Ugarte Stations of the Cross in his home- time I gave Communion to people, makes himself available for Par- town Church. Now, 70 years later, thinking that I was going to do a bad ishes in the Sarasota area which he would photograph each Station, job,” Ugarte recalled. may need something. Whether as a with a plan of creating permanent This, from a man who spent his Eucharistic Minister with Our Lady metal images for the Parish, which entire 52-year career as a successful of the Angels Parish in Lakewood are better designed for outdoor surgeon operating on people. Ranch, or through the lens of his wear and tear. “Well, I soon discovered how camera as a photographer for spe- Mistakenly, the manufacturer important it was to be a Eucharistic cial projects with St. Jude Parish in sent photos that were too small. Minister,” Ugarte admits. “It’s im- Sarasota or the photography club How disappointing, he thought, to portant not to rush, and I learned with Our Lady of Carmel Parish in know the beautiful Stations of the how we should look at people in Osprey, Ugarte is ready to help. Cross might go to waste. That was their eyes while giving Commu- “Photography makes me realize until he happened to be at St. Jude nion. You can see how they feel, and the beauty of the world and the love- Parish and noticed that their Sta- you can see the soul of a person by liness of the things that are around tions of the Cross needed an up- looking into their eyes.” us,” said Ugarte, a Peruvian-born grade. Ugarte says it’s important for him Catholic. “I discovered through the “I went right home with the mea- to connect with God and the per- lens of my camera I can see things surements, and what do you know, son, as a Eucharistic Minister. that other people don’t notice.” the pictures of the Lima Stations “I have the feeling that I am do- Parishioners of St. Jude Parish that I received in the wrong size, ing something wonderful,” he said, Dr. Fernando Ugarte points to a Station of the Cross he helped build may have spotted Ugarte’s work fit perfectly in the little frames at tearing up. n on the property of St. Jude Parish in Sarasota. (SUSAN LAIELLI | FC) A7 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020

program. Rregister at: www. Made Flesh).” Talks, Adoration, Gail Ardy: 941-486-4714, ardy@ to attend. Luncheon to follow. DIOCESAN EVENTS dioceseofvenice.org/calendar confessions Mass and more. dioceseofvenice.org. R.S.V.P. at 239-592-1949. or www.dioceseofvenice.org/ Register at www.svdp.edu/project- Catholic Charities Christmas Safe Environment training: Magnificat Breakfast: 9:30 marriageprep and click on page or email svdpretreat@gmail. Appeal: running through As part of the Safe Environment a.m., Jan. 25, Holiday Inn Airport, Marriage Preparation Classes. com. January. The goal is to raise Program, the Diocese of Venice Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Sarasota Prayer Walk for $565,000 and all gifts are 2020 Catholic Charities requires that all employees and Myers. All ladies are invited. Life: 8:30 a.m., Jan. 21, St. appreciated. Largest fundraiser Ball: 6 p.m., Feb. 8, Ritz-Carlton those volunteers who work with The speaker is Ireland-born Martha Parish, 200 N. Orange and critical to operating the social Grand Ballroom in Sarasota. children and/or vulnerable adults Sister Briege McKenna, a world- St., Sarasota. Mass celebrated by service organization. Donations Celebrity speaker: Tim Tebow. be fingerprinted and trained in renowned author and speaker Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Bus or benefit Catholic Charities Theme: “Puttin on the Ritz.” Safe Environment. For further who entered the Sisters of St. walk to Planned Parenthood on programs and services available All proceeds will benefit the information, visit the Diocesan Clare at the age of 15. Visit www. Central Avenue for prayer vigil. throughout Southwest Florida programs and services of Catholic website at www.dioceseofvenice. magnificatfortmyers.org. Seating [email protected]. that assist individuals, families, Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. org/safeenvironment. limited. Advanced registration and seniors all year long. Visit Scripture Series with Dr. in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Reporting abuse: Report only and tickets are $23. 239-826- www.catholiccharitiesdov.org Edard Sri: 3-5 p.m., St. John the Tickets: $300/person. Visit www. all abuses against minors to the 7475. or mail a donation to Catholic Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. catholiccharitiesdov.org or call Florida Department of Children Parish Concert: 7 p.m., Jan. Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., N., Naples; 7-9 p.m., Our Lady 941-355-4680, ext. 311 or email and Families at 1-800-962-2873. 31, Holy Trinity Hall, 24411 5824 Bee Ridge Road, PMB #409, of the Angels Parish, 12905 E. joan.pierse@catholiccharitiesdov. To report abuse by diocesan Rampart Blvd., Port Charlotte. Sarasota, FL 34233-5065. Call 941- State Road 70, Lakewood Ranch. org. personnel or volunteers, also call Sponsored by the San Antonio 488-5581. Both on Jan. 24. Part 1 of Series Project Rachel Post-Abortion the Diocesan Victims Assistance Parish Knights of Columbus. Into His Likeness. 941-484-9543, Come to the Water Day Reconciliation and Healing Coordinator at 941-416-6114. Featuring Goldtones, Florida’s evangelization@dioceseofvenice. of Prayer: 9 a.m., second Retreat in Spanish: Feb. 15, at famous Doo-wop group tickets org, www.dioceseofvenice.org/ Wednesdays (Jan. 8), Our Lady of a private, confidential location. are $15, at 800-838-3006, or www. calendar. Perpetual Help Retreat Center, Project Rachel offers hope and COMMUNITY BrownPaperTickets.com. 3989 S. Moon Drive, Venice. Day Sugar Bowl Show of Shows healing after abortion. Contact Hungarian Mass “Magyar includes continental breakfast, North Port: 7 p.m., Jan. 25, North Sylvia Jimenez via phone or EVENTS Mise”: 1:30 p.m., second Sundays Port Performing Arts Center, 6400 text at 941-412-5860 or project. (Jan. 12), Incarnation Parish, 2901 lunch, two conferences, and Art Auction: 2-5 p.m., Jan. opportunities for the sacrament W. Price Blvd. North Port. Proceeds [email protected] for Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. will go to the Sugar Bowl Fund details. A retreat in English is in 12, Incarnation Parish, Finegan of reconciliation, private Center, 2929 Bee Ridge Rd., Fine Arts Show and Sale: meditation and prayer, Mass. Early of Catholic Charities and the local the planning stages. All calls are noon-6 p.m., Feb. 22, 10 a.m.-3 Knights of Columbus Councils confidential. Sarasota. Art auction to benefit registration discount, 10 days Conference of St. Vincent de Paul. p.m., Feb. 23, St. Katherine Drexel for families in the community 2020 Women’s Conference: 9 prior is $30. Registration increases Cost is $5 per person. There will Parish, 1922 SW. 20th Ave., Cape who are experiencing a financial a.m.-3 p.m., Feb. 22, Bishop Verot to $35 thereafter. Register: https:// be something for everyone with Coral. Sponsored by the Knights olph-retreat.org/1-day-retreats. hardship. Featuring the Goldtones Catholic High School, 5598 Sunrise of Columbus Council 11177. performing oldies and doo wop both live and silent auctions. 941- Home buyer education Drive, Fort Myers. Speaker: Jimmy Features local art and artists. Free. music. Tickets are $20 or $25 a 921-6631. workshop: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Mitchell, the Sisters of Life and Contact: [email protected]. person and can be purchased at Benefit Dinner: 5:30 p.m., Jan. Jan. 11, Catholic Charities offices Mary Bielski. The day will also Women’s Emmaus Retreat: www.catholiccharitiesdov.org. 14, San Marco Parish Center, 851 at 1219 16th St. W., Bradenton. include Eucharistic Adoration, March 13-15, Our Lady of Mass Honoring Widows and the opportunity to participate in San Marco Road, Marco Island. Participants in the workshop will Knights of Columbus San Marco Perpetual Help Retreat Center, be eligible for assistance from Widowers: 3 p.m., Jan. 26, St. the Sacrament of Reconciliation Venice. Hosted by Epiphany John the Evangelist Parish, 625 and will conclude with Mass Council 6344 are sponsoring the Manatee and Sarasota counties St. Vincent de Paul Society Dinner. Cathedral. Join the opportunity bond and/or grant programs for 111th Avenue, Naples. Celebrant: celebrated by Bishop Frank J. to renew and deepen your Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Dinner Dewane. Cost in advance is $20 Pulled pork or fried chicken, down payment and closing costs. baked potato, baked beans, salad, relationship with the Lord. Cost: Register: 941-714-7829. will follow. Cost is free, but (pre-registration online), students $200 double room, $315 single registration is required to plan $5 pre-registration. Cost at the rolls and butter, coffee, tea, and Jammin’ for the Mamas dessert. Soda, wine and beer room. Registration deadline for food. A display of photos will door is $30, and $10 for students. March 1. Donna Vodraska, 630- at Our Mothers House: 5:30 be available for viewing during https://dioceseofvenice.regfox. available at cash bar. Cost: $25 per p.m., Jan. 13, Boca Royale Golf person (no take-out). Credit cards 336-0918, or donnavodraska@aol. the reception; should you wish to com/2020-womens-conference. com. and Country Club, Englewood. participate with a photo of you accepted. Reserve a table. Tickets English Catholic Charismatic Bingo Nights: 5:30 p.m., Join the Shark Sisters for a and your spouse, email ardy@ at the Church Office, 239-389- Renewal Conference: 5-9 p.m., Thursdays through April 2, “jawsome” night of fun, food dioceseofvenice.org or send 5633 or www.marcoknights.com. March 13 and 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Knights of Columbus, San Marco and music. Tickets are $50, a copy in advance to Diocese Faith and Ale Lee County: March 14, St. John XXIII Parish, Parish, 851 San Marco Road, includes dinner and concert. of Venice, ATTN: Widows and 6 p.m., Jan. 16, at St. John XXIII 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. Marco Island. John DeRosa at 239- Benefits Our Mother’s House of Widowers Mass, 1000 Pinebrook Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Catholic Charities, a mother-child A day of praise and worship, 389-5633. Road, Venice, Florida 34285. To healing prayer, and Eucharistic Myers. The speaker is Coach Gerry residential housing program. Call Free Rosary Repair Service: register www.dioceseofvenice.org/ Adoration. Speakers: Jim Murphy, Faust, former football coach at 941-485-6264 or 941-662-7787. Send your broken rosaries in a calendar, Gail Ardy 941-484-9543, Sister Linda Koontz, Sister of the University of Notre Dame and padded envelope to Betty and Apologetics Conference [email protected], or Kim the Holy Name, and Father the University of Akron; the topic Dick Holden, 7930 Estero Blvd. with Mike Aquilina: 5:30 p.m., Elsmore elsmore@dioceseofvenice. Anthony Lukka, and emcee Mike will be “Faith, Family & Football.” #502, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. Jan. 16, Resurrection Parish, 8121 org. Wicksall. Bishop Frank J. Dewane Donations: $10. To register: www. Rosaries will be repaired and Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers; Masses for Couples: 11 a.m., will celebrate Mass March 14. faithandale.com. returned within a week of receipt. 8:30 a.m.-noon and 6-7:30 p.m., Feb. 1, Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Speakers will present talks about Parish Prayer Walk: 11 Donations of old and broken Jan. 17, Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sarasota St., Venice, and 11 a.m., living in the Holy Spirit with a.m., Jan. 18, St. Francis of Assisi rosaries are also accepted. Include Sarasota St., Venice. Defend Youth Feb. 29, St. Leo the Great Parish, courage, power, love, self-control, Parish, 5265 Placida Road, Grove a note indicating a repair and Faith: Finding answers to modern 28290 Beaumont Road, Bonita giving testimony to the Lord and City. Walk for Life in solidarity return or donation. 239-463-3993, problems in the early Church. Springs. All couples celebrating becoming a true Disciple of Christ. with the National March for [email protected]. Free. All welcome. 941-484-9543, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or more than Register by Feb. 29 for $35 at Life in Washington, D.C. Pledge evangelization@dioceseofvenice. 50 years of marriage are invited www.dvccr.org. Registrations are sheets available in Parish Office. org, www.dioceseofvenice.org/ by Bishop Frank J. Dewane to an limited. No walk-ins. Everyone is welcome. 941-697- calendar. Anniversary Mass in their honor. Mission Immokalee: Mission 4899. VOLUNTEERS To Trust Again Workshop: Registration is done through Immokalee trip registration for 10th Annual Sunshine NEEDED 8:30 p.m., Jan. 18, Our Lady parishes. high school students will open State Steak Cook-off: Jan. of Lourdes Parish, Education Seminary Young Adult Feb. 1. Students will work on 25 at Ave Maria. Cook teams Food pantry: Monday-Friday, Building, 1301 Center Road, Retreat 2020: 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Feb. service projects from June 8-12, from near and far who will be 9 am.-noon, at the St. Joseph Venice. Marriage workshop 1, St. Vincent de Paul Regional with Catholic Charities of Collier competing for trophies and Food Pantry, 2704 33rd Ave. W., for couples who have been Seminary, 10701 S. Military Trail, and Lee Counties, Guadalupe cash prizes. Register at https:// Bradenton. Heavy lifting, moving previously married or are over Boynton Beach. “Et Verbum Caro Social Services and the Coalition www.sunshinestatesteakcookoff. carts various rooms and shelve 55 years of age not going Factum Est (And the Word Was of Immokalee Workers. The com/. Tickets are also available boxes of food, as well as sorters. through the Witness to Love mission trip is $199 and includes at: Donahue Academy School Standing for long periods of time meals, lodging and transportation Office, Ave Maria Development, required. Contact directors@ to work sites. Information: Del Webb Oasis Club and the Ave stjoepantry.com or 941-756-3732. contact the Diocese of Venice Maria Parish Office. St. Vincent de Paul, Naples Mission Office at 239-241-2233. Faith and Wine Lee County: 6 needs volunteers in Bonita Springs Registration is through Youth p.m., Jan. 23, St. John XXIII Parish, store as cashier, sorter or pricer. Ministers at Parishes and Schools. 13060 Palomino Lane, Fort Myers. Greta, 239-775-2907, option 3. at Englewood Elks Lodge Television Mass for the Speaker Kelly Nieto. Register: AFCAAM: A program of 401 N. Indiana Ave., Englewood, FL homebound: 9:30 a.m. on the www.faithandwineleecounty.com. Catholic Charities 3681 Michigan Elks Lodge #: 941-474-1404 CW Network in northern parts Blue Mass: 11 a.m., Jan. 25, Ave., Fort Myers, needs volunteers of the Diocese; 10:30 a.m., on St. Agnes Parish, 7775 Vanderbilt for reception desk. Monday- WFTX-TV (FOX-4), in the southern Beach Road, Naples. Mass in Wednesday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; SATURDAYSaturday, Feb. Feb. 10, 8, 2018 2020 portions of the Diocese. Check honor of law enforcement, Thursday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday 9 5 to 9 p.m. local listings for channel info. firefighters and first responders, a.m.-noon. 239-461-0233. 11536-1006 E.F.O. – Eddie Forman Orchestra 13226-0110 Leaflet missals are available upon active and retired. Guest homilist $16 per ticket advanced – $18 at door • Cash or Money Order request by writing: TV Mass, will be Father Sean O’Connor, Doors and Kitchen Open at 4:30 p.m.– Food Available Diocese of Venice, 1000 Pinebrook former Chaplain of the Boston Road, Venice, FL 34285. Or contact Police Department. All welcome Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY A8 Opportunities coming to stand up for Life STAFF REPORT tional March for Life in Washing- tion of human life. Each day’s in- ton, D.C., and for participants to be tention is accompanied by a short FORT MYERS | We are all a witness to a Culture of Life and reflection and suggested actions called by Christ to be witnesses of defend the right to life of all unborn to help build a Culture of Life. You our Faith and to stand up against children. Everyone is welcome. For can receive daily pro-life prayers evil. more details, and for pledge sheets, via e-mail or on your phone via Above, the Diocese of Venice youth at the National March for Life The Diocese of Venice Respect please call 941-697-4899. text. For further information, visit Jan. 18, 2019, in Washington, D.C. Below, the faithful protest outside Life Office is co-sponsoring sev- You can also join Bishop Frank www.9daysforlife.com. of Planned Parenthood. (FILE PHOTOS) eral events to mark the 47th tragic J. Dewane for a Mass and the an- The 40 Days for Life spring cam- anniversary of the Roe v. Wade U.S. nual Prayer Walk for Life on Jan. paign is held this year from Feb. 26 Supreme Court decision which 21 in Sarasota. The Mass is at 8:30 to April 5. The campaign includes opened the door for abortion in the a.m., St. Martha Parish, 200 N. Or- 40 days of prayer and fasting for United States. ange St. Participants will then take an end to abortion where all are Today, after more than 60 mil- a shuttle or walk to the Planned welcome to stand and peacefully lion abortions, there is less regard Parenthood on Central Avenue for pray. These vigils will take place for all human life as society dis- a Prayer Vigil. in the public right-of-way outside cards those deemed inconvenient This year, Bishop Dewane is Planned Parenthood abortion fa- because of age, infirmity or any joining a group of approximately cilities in Naples, Fort Myers and other reason, the Florida Bishops 475 from the Diocese of Venice Sarasota. For more information, noted in a statement released in on Jan. 24 to stand up for life. The go to www.40daysforlife.com and early January. In fact, some states young men and women, represent- click on the location nearest you. sought to strengthen laws that per- ing each Diocesan High School as The Diocese offers multiple pro- mit abortions even to the moment well as 10 different parishes, will life efforts throughout the year. of birth. be joining hundreds of thousands This includes regular prayer vigils Locally, there are several oppor- in the National March for Life in are held in front of abortion facili- tunities to act. Washington, D.C. ties throughout the Diocese. For example, St. Francis of Assisi In addition, the U. S. Catholic For information on all Diocesan Parish, 5265 Placida Road, Grove Bishops invite everyone to join activities promoting a Culture of City, is hosting a Parish Prayer thousands of Catholics nationwide Life, contact Jeanne Berdeaux at Walk for Life at 11 a.m., Jan. 18. The for 9 Days of Prayer for Life, a no- [email protected] or walk is in solidarity with the Na- vena from Jan. 21-29 for the protec- 941-374-1068 n 13460-0110 A9 FLORIDA NEWS Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Newborns find ‘Safe Haven’ from abandonment

CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE “We are finding now that if a “We have assisted Missouri, they adopted Kristopher. mom abandons a baby in an unsafe Kansas, New Mexico, Kentucky, “Having given natural birth be- MIAMI | Formerly an informa- place, quite often she is on drugs or Wyoming and soon to be probably fore, this (adoption) was more like I tion technology business owner, there are mental health issues and North Carolina and South Carolina had birthed someone into my heart, Nick Silverio doesn’t sit still for long that is very difficult to deal with,” in terms of consulting and provid- and he has been nothing less than before thinking of ways to make it he said. ing all the ideas that we have,” he one of the greatest blessings I have easier for women with crisis preg- Florida’s Safe Haven law allows said. ever had,” said Aja Terrell, a proper- nancies to make good choices. mothers (or fathers) to take an un- In keeping with his IT roots, ty manager in south Florida whose One of his initiatives is A Safe Ha- harmed newborn up to seven days Silverio has been rolling out a pro- husband, Richard, was equally sup- ven For Newborns, a network of vol- old to a designated Safe Haven loca- totype mobile phone app. It en- portive of the adoption. They were unteers, hospitals and fire depart- tion instead of leaving them some- courages participating high school inspired to share their blessings by ments in Florida organized toward where else or doing something they students in Florida seeking to earn a Christian retreat facilitator. saving infants from the dangers of will later regret. community service hours to edu- Kristopher, now 15, loves bas- abandonment and an almost cer- “The lifeline of our organization cate themselves and others about ketball and sees himself becoming tain death. is our statewide confidential, 24/7 Safe Haven principles and the over- a medical doctor, according to his Created in 2001 following the multilingual, referral helpline. We all crisis of baby abandonment. mother. Kristopher Terrell is pictured as tragic death of Silverio’s wife of 32 assist them as they make their de- “It helps them to earn their vol- “The powerful thing Nick has a toddler in this undated photo. years in an automobile accident, cision in the best interest of their unteer hours without even leaving done has saved a life and blessed (COURTESY SAFE HAVEN | CNS) A Safe Haven for Newborns has baby and themselves, whether with home,” Silverio said. “They can cre- our family tremendously, and that grown into a multifaceted minis- counseling, parenting, health relat- ate a smartphone video, which they is one of the reasons that we as a helped five moms get their babies try boasting 314 newborns saved ed issues, adoption or confidential- can post on a social media cam- family will always be involved with back. It brought the families closer from abandonment or unsafe situ- ly placing their newborn with A Safe paign; join a speakers bureau; or Safe Haven,” Aja Terrell said. “My together.” ations in Florida — and 68 mothers Haven For Newborns. Everyone is create (relevant) artwork.” son has grown emotionally, spiritu- He said from the beginning that steered toward placing a child in helped and no one is ever judged,” Silverio has kept in touch with ally and physically, and has evolved if only one life was saved, Safe Ha- adoption over the years. Silverio said. several of the mothers and babies into a person who strives to be a ven’s efforts would be worthwhile. “If a baby is left on a doorstep, “We are creating greater aware- that Safe Haven has helped. To one good man like Nick.” The ministry also allows a parent most of the time they wouldn’t sur- ness. We work with all the crisis youngster, Silverio is known affec- The ministry also has reunited to be saved from criminal prosecu- vive,” said Silverio, whose volun- pregnancy centers in Florida,” said tionately as “Uncle Nick.” mothers with their babies. tion and a lifetime of guilt, while the teers help women think through Silverio, a member of Christ the Fifteen years earlier, the child’s “Once the baby is healthy and hopes and dreams of parents wait- their options and the ramifications King Parish in Perrine, as well as adoptive parents felt called to wel- released, the hospital contacts an ing to adopt also are fulfilled. n of abandoning a child. Following the Knights of Columbus and the come another member to their adoption agency that has noth- his wife’s death in 2000, Silverio Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem, family even though they had four ing to do with Safe Haven, and More information about A Save Ha- saw a magazine article about child known as the Lazarists. children of their own. Through an the mom has 30 days to change ven for Newborns is online at https:// abandonment worldwide. He felt it Now, Silverio is helping volun- introduction made by Safe Haven, her mind,” Silverio said. “We have asafehavenfornewborns.com/ was God suggesting a new purpose teers in other states build similar for the remainder of his life. life-saving networks of their own.

13612-0110 Public support of clemency hearing urged

JEAN GONZALEZ At left is a screenshot of the Florida Catholic staff of a link from the PRAY TO Florida Conference ORLANDO | Although he has of Catholic Bishops spent 32 years on Florida’s death on how to directly row, James Dailey’s case has gotten message Gov. Ron STOP much press across the nation. DeSantis urging him What hasn’t changed is James to offer James Dailey Dailey’s conviction that his death a clemency hearing. ABORTION by lethal injection would be the The link is at flaccb. org/flcan-take-action PAID ADVERTISEMENT murder of an innocent man. And recent information — including a signed confession by another man — has led advocates for his case to While Catholic bishops have long cific than any he has previously urge the general public to send Gov. fought to stop death warrants, there made and it reads: “James Dailey 5 Year Annuity Ron DeSantis a strong message — is added concern with Dailey’s had nothing to do with the murder grant a clemency hearing. case, which has gained national of Shelly Boggio. I committed the Guaranteed 3.25 Interest Rate For All 5 Years Dailey was convicted in 1987 attention because of evidence that crime alone. James Dailey was back

13394-0110 of the 1985 murder of 14-year-old could exonerate him of the crime. at the house when I drove Shelly If you are tired of paying Shelly Boggio in Pinellas County. Jack Pearcy, who was a housemate Boggio to the place where I ulti- high fees to invest your The 73-year-old military veteran of Dailey’s at the time of the crime, mately killed her.” money, then you should who served in Vietnam was sched- was sentenced to life in prison be- Along with Catholic bishops, invest it with Catholic uled to be executed Nov. 7. cause of his part in the murder. advocates for Dailey’s exoneration Holy Family Society. Florida’s Catholic bishops are Prosecutors of the case said both include the Innocence Project, for- among those advocates who are men were involved in the murder, mer death row inmates who have urging for a clemency hearing. On with Pearcy pinning the responsi- been exonerated, and the New York There are NO administrative fees and Oct. 23, 2019, Archbishop Thomas bility on Dailey in return of life in Times and Pro Publica, which pub- NO sales or service charges. 100% of your Wenski and Bishop Felipe Estevez prison. lished an exhausted account of the money begins earning interest for you as soon as it is deposited! wrote a letter to the governor asking But since that time, Pearcy has case and new evidence available, for a stay of execution. The courts recanted, and on Dec. 18, 2019, including information about Paul Currently available in the following states: did grant a stay, but it expired Dec. Pearcy voluntarily signed a dec- Skalnik, a “jailhouse snitch” who CO, FL, IL, IN, IA, LA, KS, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, NE, NJ, OH, PA, RI, WI 30, 2019. laration attesting to the fact that testified again and again, helping to At press time, DeSantis has not he alone committed the crime for send dozens of people to prison and done anything to renew the death which Dailey faces execution and four, including Dailey, to death row. warrant. However, Florida’s bish- that Dailey was not involved in any The Florida Conference of Cath- ops and the Florida Conference of way. This is at least the fifth time olic Bishops offers a link to send Catholic Bishops are now urging Pearcy has confessed to being solely messages directly to the governor For more information, contact Lisa in our the governor to grant a clemency, responsible for the crime. urging for a clemency hearing. Visit Annuity Department: 800-240-2554 | 618-233-0286 Lisa Brauer, ACS and asking local Catholics to lend According to Dailey’s attorney’s, flaccb.org/flcan-take-action and their own voices in that effort. Pearcy’s statement was more spe- click on the first link. n Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic QUICK READS A10

NATION announced plans to file 12 suits Put the phone FLOODS IN INDONESIA in nine California dioceses under California’s new Child Victims away and talk to March for Life Act, which takes effect Jan. 1, ex- theme linked tending the state’s statute of limi- each other, pope tations for childhood sexual abuse urges families to suffragist survivors. The announcement from Jeff Anderson & Associates VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis centennial included plans for the law firm to prayed that people all over the WASHINGTON | The March for file suits in the Archdioceses of Los world would end 2019 “in peace, Life, the annual march in Washing- Angeles and San Francisco and peace in their hearts,” and that ton to protest legalized abortion in the Dioceses of Fresno, Monterey, families would mark New Year’s the United States, is tying itself in Orange, San Bernardino, Oakland, by “communicating with one 2020 to the women’s suffrage move- San Jose and Santa Rosa. The firm another.” Reciting the Angelus ment for the 100th anniversary of announced the first lawsuits Dec. prayer Dec. 29, the feast of the the 19th Amendment, which gave 27 in Los Angeles against the Ca- Holy Family, Pope Francis en- women the right to vote. The theme puchin religious order, St. Francis trusted to Mary, “Queen of the of the march is “Life Empowers: High School in La Canada Flin- Family,” all the families of the Pro-Life Is Pro-Woman.” Jeanne tridge run by the Capuchins, and world, “especially those experi- Mancini, head of the March for Life, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles encing suffering or distress, and remarked how two noted suffragists Women carry diapers as they cross a flooded area Jan. 2, 2020, after over alleged abuse by a wrestling we invoke upon them her mater- of their day, Alice Paul and Susan B. heavy rains in , Indonesia. Caritas Indonesia (Karina) has coach, Capuchin Father Christo- nal protection.” The pope also Anthony, were themselves staunch- joined forces with the Jakarta Archdiocese in distributing aid to pher Kearney. In the suit filed in offered special prayers “for the ly against abortion. A video made to people hard hit by floods that have killed dozens of people. (WILLY Los Angeles Superior Court, an victims of the horrible terrorist at- support the upcoming march, to be KURNIAWAN, REUTERS | CNS) unnamed male alleges that Father tack yesterday in Mogadishu, So- held Jan. 24, said the women called Kearney touched him inappropri- malia, where more than 70 people abortion “the ultimate exploitation ately during wrestling matches at were killed in the explosion of a of women.” An unnamed woman rampage during a Hanukkah cel- during their celebration of Hanuk- St. Francis High School. Two other car bomb. I am close to all their speaking in the video said 30 mil- ebration in a rabbi’s home in New kah.” He added: “We are particular- lawsuits were announced Dec. 27 families and those who mourn lion female babies had been abort- York; and the Dec. 26 posting of a ly disturbed that this crime comes against Mater Dei High School in their deaths.” He led the crowd ed since the twin 1973 Supreme video by an Islamic State affiliate in as only the latest of such vile acts of Santa Ana and the Diocese of Or- in St. Peter’s Square in reciting Court rulings in Roe v. Wade and Nigeria that showed the beheading anti-Semitism in our nation.” ange over alleged abuse by former a Hail Mary for the victims and Doe v. Bolton that legalized abor- of 11 Christians. “In our neighbor- principal Msgr. Michael Harris and their loved ones as the death toll tion virtually on demand. Mancini hoods and communities, violence Prayers for those Bernie Balsis, a former guidance continued to rise. The day’s read- said speakers lined up for the pre- and cruelty are a sad and ordinary counselor at the school. The suits ing from the Gospel of St. Matthew march gathering include Louisi- reality of daily life,” Archbishop Go- affected by fatal were filed on behalf of former stu- recounted how an angel appeared ana State Sen. Katrina Jackson, a mez said. “Children in our country church shooting dents of both high schools alleging to Joseph in a dream, telling him pro-life Democrat who authored a are killed each day in the womb and abuse decades ago. to flee to Egypt with Mary and Je- bill in 2014 to require abortion doc- many of our neighbors do not have WASHINGTON | Two Texas sus because Herod wanted to kill tors to have admitting privileges at what they need to lead a dignified Catholic bishops offered words the baby. nearby hospitals. It was ruled un- life. Our politics and cultural dis- of condolence and prayers to the WORLD constitutional in 2017, but that rul- course are often marked by anger members and families of the vic- Nigerian diocesan ing in June Medical Services v. Gee and a merciless and unforgiving tims of a church shooting in which cardinal was reversed by the 5th U.S. Circuit contempt for others.” two worshippers were killed. Arch- spokesman: Bridal Court of Appeals. The U.S. Supreme bishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller of condemns hate party beheaded en Court said in October it would take Religious voices San Antonio and Bishop Edward speech after up the case, its first abortion-related condemn knife J. Burns of Dallas said they prayed route to wedding case since the death of Antonin Sca- that sin and evil would not overtake graffiti appears LAGOS, Nigeria | Father Fran- lia and the retirement of Anthony attack on N.Y. rabbi society. A gunman killed two peo- cis Arinse, communications di- Kennedy. ple Dec. 29 during Sunday services MANCHESTER, England | An rector of the Catholic Diocese WASHINGTON | A host of voices at West Freeway Church of Christ English cardinal has condemned of Maiduguri, confirmed that a ‘Violence in the from throughout the religious spec- in White Settlement, Texas, before “all expressions of hatred” after bride-to-be, Martha Bulus, and trum condemned the Dec. 28 knife members of the congregation fa- anti-Semitic graffiti was daubed her bridal party were beheaded name of God is attack at the suburban New York tally shot him, authorities said. Po- across shops, cafes and a synagogue Dec. 26 at Gwoza, in northeast- blasphemy,’ USCCB City home of a Hasidic rabbi that lice were called to the church about in London. Cardinal Vincent Nich- ern Nigeria’s Borno state. Father wounded five, one of them criti- eight miles west of Fort Worth be- ols of Westminster denounced the Arinse told Catholic News Service president says cally. The suspected attacker was fore 11 a.m. after two members of Dec. 29 attacks, which coincided that Bulus and her companions LOS ANGELES | Decrying the later arrested and held in lieu of $5 the church’s volunteer security with the Jewish religious festival of were traveling from Maiduguri acts of religious violence that have million bond. “Such acts must be team opened fire on the gunman, Hanukkah. In a New Year message to her Dec. 31 wedding when they taken place during the Christmas condemned completely and with- The Dallas Morning News reported. posted Jan. 1 on the website of the were killed. “They were beheaded season, the president of the U.S. out reservation as totally contrary “My heart goes out to the victims Archdiocese of Westminster, the by suspected Boko Haram insur- bishops declared: “Violence in to everything that people of faith killed and wounded in the shoot- cardinal asked Catholics to include gents at Gwoza on their way to her the name of God is blasphemy.” stand for,” said a Dec. 29 statement ing this morning” at the church, building up the kingdom of God country home,” he told CNS. He Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los from Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, Archbishop Garcia-Siller said in a among their New Year resolutions. added that Bulus used to be his Angeles, chosen in November as archbishop of New York. “An at- statement Dec. 29. “My prayers are “We look for justice and compas- parishioner at St. Augustine Cath- president of the U.S. Conference of tack on any individual or group with all who were traumatized by sion, for generosity and truth, for olic Church, Maiduguri, after he Catholic Bishops, said: “The rise of because of his or her religious be- this senseless tragedy. “That this faithfulness and love, for a sense of was first ordained. Father Arinse anti-Semitic violence in this coun- liefs is an attack on us all. This ha- act of violence occurred in a house unity and shared well-being,” said said there had been a series of ab- try and around the world must be tred has no place in our city, state, of worship unfortunately no lon- Cardinal Nichols before suggest- ductions in the area recently. He condemned along with the ongoing or nation, or anywhere else on our ger shocks our senses. At this time ing ways in which Catholics can said government agencies must persecution of Christians. Protect- planet.” Cardinal Dolan added that of bitter division and polarization, improve their society. He proposed beef up security in northeast Ni- ing religious freedom and freedom during Mass Dec. 29, he “prayed we must unite in common purpose that “each of us, every person in geria to prevent a recurrence. Sev- of conscience should be among the in a special way in solidarity with and commitment to save our soci- our society, will shun all form and eral international media outlets highest priorities of every govern- the victims of these heinous acts of ety. We can do no less,” he said. expressions of hatred against oth- reported Dec. 26 that the Islamic ment.” Archbishop Gomez’s re- violence” and urged all people “to ers. The recent anti-Semitic graf- State group released a video show- marks, in a Dec. 31 statement, were come together in a spirit of unity First clergy abuse fiti in north London brings shame ing it had beheaded 10 Christians prepared with the Jan. 1 observance to reject such hatred and bigotry to us all,” said the cardinal, whose and shot an 11th Dec. 26. The news of the World Day of Peace in mind. wherever it occurs.” Archbishop suits under new archdiocese covers the city north agencies said they were unable to He cited three incidents in particu- Allen H. Vigneron of Detroit, vice California law of the River Thames. “Such hatred confirm the contents of the video lar: the Dec. 29 assault on worship- president of the U.S. bishops, in a can have no place in our way of life. but described the victims as men. pers in a Texas church by a gunman, Dec. 29 statement, voiced his “out- LOS ANGELES | An attorney Only when we see the good in each IS said the beheadings were pay- which left two congregants and the rage in learning of the violent attack who specializes in lawsuits for other will every person feel wel- back for the late-October killing shooter dead; the Dec. 27 a stabbing on a Jewish household in New York victims of clergy sexual abuse has comed and unafraid.” of its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghadi. A11 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Australian Catholics seek prayers as fires continue DAVID RYAN AND JORDAN GRANTHAM Catholic News Service

As some of the worst wildfires in Australian history rage across four states, thousands of people in af- fected areas in New South Wales and Victoria continue to be evacu- ated to safety. Soaring temperatures, often higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and a protracted drought have con- A photo from social media photo shows a burned area near tributed to an unprecedented na- Jenolan Caves in New South Wales, Australia. (ROBERT LETKIEWICZ, tional emergency which, by Christ- COURTESY JENOLAN CAVES SOCIAL MEDIA VIA REUTERS | CNS) mas, had already seen more than 14.5 million acres of forest and rural country.” torian emergency services saying 28 land burned. Bishop Shane Mackinlay of Dio- people are missing in the state. Amid conditions regularly de- Sheep are seen as Rural Fire Service crews engage in property cese of Sandhurst expressed con- Smoke clouds, which can be seen scribed as catastrophic, fires have protection during wildfires along the Old Hume Highway near cern about “the impact that fires from space, have reached New Zea- continued to rage in hundreds of the town of Tahmoor, Australia, outside , Dec. 19, 2019. have already had on communities land, nearly 2,500 miles away across locations in Western Australia, New Wildfires have been burning since August and have destroyed an and by the anxiety that the threat of the Tasman Sea. South Wales, South Australia and area comparable to the combined region of the Netherlands and fire is causing.” The Gippsland region in Victo- Victoria states for months. Belgium. (DEAN LEWINS, AAP VIA REUTERS | CNS) In a statement Jan. 3, he urged ria’s east has seen convoys of people Marie Burton, a parishioner of “political and community leaders escorted by police and emergency Our Lady of Sorrows Church, in the Monday evening — and again on cluding nephew Matthew Darlow, to continue efforts to identify and services personnel evacuating from New South Wales Diocese of Wagga, Tuesday. a member of the local brigade of the respond to the underlying causes towns such as Corryong and Walwa lives on a farm in Jingellic, near the “The fire came up over the hill Rural Fire Service. The Darlows live that have contributed to the height- in Victoria’s Alpine country. border with Victoria border. In late but there was no stopping it. My at Lankeys Creek, approximately 12 ened risks we are facing this sum- Catholics such as the Burtons December and early January, Jingel- husband was getting things out of miles north of Jingellic. While stay- mer, (and) we pray for those who lost and Darlows say their faith is strong. lic was surrounded by fire twice. the house, but he was told to just get ing with her relatives, Burton has their lives, and for the safe recovery “We have a very deep faith,” said “We know so many Catholic peo- out of there. been cooking at a shelter to feed of people who are missing.” Burton. “I put a scapular on the ple who are being affected. There’s “We didn’t know for 24 hours firefighters. The fires have been burning since door and sprinkled the house with a lot of suffering going on, and we’re (what happened) but luckily, it was “We just need to band together, August and have destroyed an area holy water, and we have statues continuing to pray,” Burton said in saved.” get the fires out and support those comparable to the combined region in our home, including the Infant tears. Burton has taken shelter with who have lost their homes and live- of the Netherlands and Belgium. of Prague, and so I prayed — we “Twice our home was saved. On her sister’s family, the Darlows, in- lihoods,” said Darlow. By Jan. 3, thousands of people prayed very hard, and asked other “We’re waiting on a change in were given less than 48 hours to people to pray. wind that could affect things, and evacuate fire-ravaged coastal com- “All of these people are amazing an increase in temperature, tonight munities in New South Wales. With people, with an amazing Catholic or tomorrow,” said Darlow, who the heat forecast for 111 degrees faith, and we know God will pro- asked Catholics around the world Fahrenheit Jan. 4, the fires were ex- tect them,” she said. “Every time we to pray. pected to worsen. hear good news, we’re overjoyed Purchase a Personalized “Offer up prayers for the people More than 2,500 buildings have that these people haven’t lost their who’ve lost their lives and those been razed and at least 20 people homes. There is just miracle after who’ve lost their livelihoods so that — 16 from New South Wales, two miracle happening.” they can rebuild as quickly as possi- from Victoria and two from South In his statement, Bishop Mackin- Facing Stone Now to ble,” he said. “And pray particularly Australia -- have died. 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13609-0120 statement from the order. n Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS A12 Cardinal: Iraqis in ‘state of shock’ after drone kills Iranian general

DALE GAVLAK AND for,” Archbishop Mirkis explained, the situation in the region, which DOREEN ABI RAAD but warned that the assassination truly appears to be intensely heat- Catholic News Service of Soleimani, known as the archi- ed,” he said. tect of ’s proxy wars in the Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy Iraqi Cardinal Louis Sako, pa- Middle East, could spark further in Baghdad issued a security alert triarch of Chaldean Catholics, said sectarian divisions in Iraq between telling Americans to “depart Iraq “Iraqis are in a state of shock” fol- Sunni Muslims and Shiites. immediately, via airline while lowing the U.S.-targeted killing in Many of the recent demonstra- possible, and failing that, to other Baghdad of Iran’s top general, Qas- tions rocking the capital, Baghdad, countries via land.” sem Soleimani. and southern Iraq were against Analysts say Soleimani was a “It is unfortunate that our coun- the growing influence of Iran and “much more powerful figure” than try turns into an arena for settling Soleimani’s al-Quds Force inside former al-Qaida chief Osama bin scores, rather than being a sover- Iraq. Soleimani was widely seen Laden or Abu Bakr Baghdadi, the eign homeland, capable of protect- as the second-most-powerful fig- now-deceased leader of the so- ing its land, wealth and citizens,” ure in Iran, behind Ayatollah Ali called Islamic State. Cardinal Sako said from Baghdad Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader. The Soleimani killing was Jan. 4. Soleimani is believed to have been sparked by a series of escalating “In the face of this sensitive and responsible for hundreds of U.S ser- attacks between the U.S. and Ira- dangerous situation, we call on all vice member deaths in Iraq. He was nian-backed forces. It began with the parties concerned to exercise also Iran’s main strategist in the the Iranian-backed Iraqi Shiite mi- restraint, show wisdom and act ra- Syrian conflict. litia Kataeb Hezbollah’s firing of 31 tionally, and (to) sit at the table of di- “We only pray that the situation rockets into a base in Kirkuk prov- alogue and understanding to spare can be calm and peaceful. We are ince Dec. 27. The attack killed an A woman displays a cellphone photo of Iranian Maj. Gen. Qassem the country the unimaginable con- waiting to see,” the archbishop said. American contractor and wounded Soleimani, killed in a U.S. drone airstrike at Baghdad International sequences,” Cardinal Sako said. “The situation in Baghdad and the several U.S. and Iraqi servicemen. Airport Jan. 3, 2020. The woman was participating in a protest in front “We raise our prayers to God Al- south is more troubled. But Kirkuk In response, the U.S. bombed five of of U.N. offices in Tehran, Iran. (NAZANIN TABATABAEE, WEST ASIA mighty in order for life to return to and Kurdistan region is still calm. the militia’s sites in Iraq and Syria. NEWS AGENCY VIA REUTERS | CNS) its normal course, and (for) Iraq and This is all that we can say.” Militia supporters retaliated by set- its people (to) enjoy peace, security The drone attack was the lead ting fire to the wall and attacking On Jan. 5, the Iraqi parliament the region, and their right to peace and goodness,” he said. news story in L’Osservatore Ro- the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad. approved a resolution calling for the and stability after so many years of Iraqis fear their country, already mano, the Vatican newspaper, Jan. Fawaz Gerges, professor of in- withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. violence and bloodshed.” weary from years of war, may be 3: “The raid last night was only the ternational relations at the London Adel Abdul-Mahdi, Iraq’s outgo- “Gen. Soleimani was no inno- dragged into a conflict between the latest episode in a long escalation of School of Economics, said many ing prime minister, called for the cent victim of war, having been the United States and Iran. tensions culminating in the attack are now anxious about what action emergency session, saying the U.S. architect and promoter of armed vi- “We prayed during the days of Dec. 31 of a crowd of demonstrators Tehran will take against the U.S. presence there is limited to train- olence in many parts of the region, Christmas for peace on earth, and on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.” and its interests. ing forces to fight terrorism. He de- but this attack and anticipated reac- the timing of this revenge from Archbishop Leo Boccardi, apos- Former U.S. Ambassador Mat- scribed the attack that killed Solei- tions to it threaten even wider and America creates in us a big anxiety tolic nuncio to Iran, told the Italian thew Bryza, now of the Washing- mani as a “violation” of conditions more disastrous conflict in the re- about what will happen,” Chaldean news agency ANSA that the first re- ton-based Atlantic Council, said for the U.S. troop presence. gion,” said the Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, Catholic Archbishop Yousif Thomas actions in Tehran were “incredulity, he believes Iran may use one of its The World Council of Churches WCC general secretary. “As destabi- Mirkis of Kirkuk, Iraq, told Catholic pain and anger.” proxies, such as the Lebanese Shi- appealed for all sides to “exercise lizing as Gen. Soleimani’s activities News Service by phone. “I think tensions have reached a ite militia, Hezbollah, to carry out a maximum restraint, to refrain from have been, the consequences for “This can also divide the popu- level never seen before, and this is retaliatory attack, possibly against further escalation, and to give pri- the people of the region of more in- lation. Some are against. Some are worrying and further complicates Israel, a U.S. Mideast ally. ority to the welfare of all people of tensive conflict are incalculable.” n Pope Francis prays for dialogue as U.S-Iran tensions mount FLORIDACatholic JUNNO AROCHO ESTEVES tion in already tense relations after Catholic News Service President Donald Trump pulled out of nuclear deal with Iran last year. VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis In an interview with CNN, U.S. led pilgrims in prayers for peace as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo de- tensions between the United States fended Trump’s decision and said and Iran escalated following the as- that Soleimani “was actively plot- sassination of a top Iranian general. ting in the region to take actions.” Days after Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Shortly after the Iranian gen- Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, eral’s death, the United States de- warned of retaliation for the Jan. 3 ployed an additional 3,000 troops U.S. drone attack that killed Gener- to the Middle East. The attack was al Qassem Soleimani, the pope said seen by world leaders as an unnec- that “a terrible air of tension is felt in essary provocation that could fur- many parts of the world.” ther destabilize the Middle East. “War only brings death and de- Speaking to Vatican News Jan. struction. I call on all parties to 3, Archbishop Leo Boccardi, apos- APPEAR IN PRINT! APPEAR ONLINE! keep alive the flame of dialogue and tolic nuncio to Iran, said the assas- Be a crossword puzzle sponsor and self-control and avoid the shadow of sination “creates apprehension and Sponsor the monthly Dose enmity,” the pope said after praying shows us how difficult it is to build see your ad on one of the most or the Angelus prayer with pilgrims and believe in peace.” of Faith online newsletter. gathered in St. Peter’s Square Jan. 5. “The appeal is to lower tension, popular pages in the paper. He then led pilgrims in a moment of to call everyone to negotiation and silent prayer so “that the Lord may to believe in dialogue knowing that, Be the first to take advantage of this great opportunity. give us the grace” of peace. has history has always shown us, The drone strike, which killed that war and weapons aren’t the so-

Become a Sponsor Today! 13526-0110 Soleimani and six other people, lution to the problems afflicting the including an Iraqi militia com- world today,” Archbishop Boccardi For more info call 407-373-0075 | [email protected] mander, caused a sharp escala- said. n A13 VATICAN NEWS Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020 Pope begins New Year with apology, prayers for peace

CINDY WOODEN For the 2020 celebration of show us Jesus. Let’s let ourselves Catholic News Service World Peace Day, he said, the focus be blessed, let’s open our hearts was on peace as a “journey of hope, to goodness and that way the year VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis a journey which proceeds through that is beginning will be a journey began the New Year with an apolo- dialogue, reconciliation and eco- of hope and peace, not through gy for losing his patience the night logical conversion.” words, but through daily gestures before with a woman who grabbed “Jesus is the blessing of those of dialogue, reconciliation and his hand and yanked him closer to oppressed by the yoke of slavery, care for creation.” her while he was greeting people in both moral and material,” he said. Pope Francis used his midday St. Peter’s Square. “He frees with love.” address to thank and encourage To get away, the pope had To those who are enslaved by all the initiatives Catholics, their slapped her hand and gave her a vice and addiction, the pope said, parishes and dioceses around the very serious scowl. A video of the Jesus bears the message that “the world undertake to promote peace. incident went viral on . Father loves you, he will not aban- “My thoughts also go to the Reciting the midday Angelus don you, with unshakable patience many volunteers who, in places prayer Jan. 1, Pope Francis was he awaits your return.” where peace and justice are threat- talking about how God’s offer of Jesus opens the doors of frater- ened, courageously choose to be salvation in Jesus is “not magic, A woman grabs Pope Francis’ hand as he turns away while walking nity, welcome and love to those present in a nonviolence and un- but patient, that is, it involves the to visit the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Dec. who are victims of injustice or ex- armed way, as well as to the mili- patience of love, which takes on in- 31, 2019. At his Angelus Jan. 1 the pope apologized for the “bad ploitation; pours “the oil of conso- tary who carry out peacekeeping equity and destroys its power.” example” he gave when he slapped this woman’s hand. (VATICAN lation” on the sick and the discour- missions in many areas of con- Then, briefly departing from his MEDIA | CNS) aged; and opens windows of light flict,” the pope said. prepared text, the pope said that for prisoners who feel they have no Addressing everyone, “believ- “love makes us patient. We often tivity scene with the eyes of faith, The church marks Jan. 1 as both future, he said. ers and non-believers because we lose our patience; me, too, and I “we see the world renewed, freed the feast of Mary, Mother of God, “Dear brothers and sisters,” he are all brothers and sisters,” Pope apologize for my bad example last from the dominion of evil and and World Peace Day, he said, urg- told the people in the square, “let’s Francis urged people to “never night.” placed under the regal lordship of ing Catholics to pray for peace and get down from the pedestals of our stop hoping in a world of peace,” Returning to his text, Pope Fran- Christ, the baby lying in the man- to recognize their responsibility to pride and ask for the blessing of which must be built together, day cis said that in gazing upon the Na- ger.” work for peace. the holy Mother of God. She will by day. n FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY Holy Father: Faith is about worshipping God, not oneself

CINDY WOODEN cense and to tell him that only in of the Gospel on Epiphany, a dea- not join the Magi in going to Beth- dictions that anesthetize the heart Catholic News Service union with him can our lives rise con chanted the announcement lehem to worship the newborn and confound the mind,” he said. up to heaven. To present him with of the date of Easter 2020 (April 12) king, the pope noted. “In worship, we learn to reject what VATICAN CITY | Worshipping myrrh, balm for the bruised and and the dates of other feasts on the They offer another lesson to should not be worshipped: the god the Lord as the Three Kings did in- wounded, and to promise him that church calendar that are calculat- Christians, he said. “In the Chris- of money, the god of consumerism, volves making a journey “from the we will aid our marginalized and ed according to the date of Easter. tian life, it is not enough to be the god of pleasure, the god of suc- greatest form of bondage: slavery suffering neighbors in whom he In St. Peter’s Basilica, as Pope knowledgeable; unless we step out cess, the god of self.” to oneself,” Pope Francis said on himself is present,” the pope said. Francis looked on, Deacon An- of ourselves, unless we encounter Worshipping God also means the feast of the Epiphany. Pope Francis celebrated the thony Klein of the Diocese of Sioux others and worship, we cannot “recognizing that we are all broth- To worship like the Magi did is feast day Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica Falls, South Dakota, chanted the know God.” ers and sisters before the mystery “to bring gold to the Lord and to Jan. 6. announcement in Latin. Klein “Theology and pastoral effec- of a love that bridges every dis- tell him that nothing is more pre- In accordance with an ancient is studying for the priesthood at tiveness mean little or nothing tance,” he said. “Worship means cious than he is. To offer him in- tradition, after the proclamation Rome’s Pontifical North American unless we bend the knee, un- being silent in the presence of the College. less we kneel down like the Magi, divine Word and learning to use In his homily at the Mass, the who were not only knowledgeable words that do not wound but con- NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, pope focused on the importance about planning a journey, but also sole.” OR YOUR MONEY BACK – GUARANTEED of worshipping the Lord, bowing capable of setting out and bowing Like the Magi, he said, Chris- down in adoration of him and put- down in worship,” he said. tians discover the meaning of their ting him before all other concerns, “Faith is not simply a set of fine life’s journey in worshipping the because the Christian life “is a doctrines, but a relationship with a Lord and it brings them great joy. journey toward the Lord, not to- living person whom we are called After Mass, with thousands ward ourselves.” to love,” the pope said. “It is in en- of people gathered in St. Peter’s In the Gospel, he said, Herod countering Jesus face to face that Square for the Angelus prayer, worshipped only himself and we come to see him as he is.” Pope Francis noted how the Magi % AND! % OFF ENTIRE® wanted to rid himself of the child “Through worship, we discover did not stay in Bethlehem but re- FINANCING* LEAFFILTER 0 15 PURCHASE** Jesus. “What does this teach us? that the Christian life is a love story turned home “by another way.” PLUS AN ADDITIONAL That when we do not worship with God,” he said. The phrase, he said, can be read SENIOR OR MILITARY DISCOUNT! We off er Senior & Military discounts God, we end up worshipping our- At the beginning of a new year, symbolically as an affirmation ON TOP of the 15% off & 0% fi nancing! selves.” Pope Francis said, Christians that the Wise Men were changed People can use religion to affirm should rediscover the importance by their encounter with Jesus and  CALL US TODAY themselves and their own abilities, of kneeling down to worship Jesus, sent back to their normal lives to For A FREE Estimate! the pope said. “This is a grave risk: of speaking with him, bringing live in a new way and share their We use God instead of serving him. their lives to him, allowing him to experience. 1-855-710-6185 How many times have we confused console them. As with the Three Kings, the the interests of the Gospel with our “Worship means discovering pope said, “the experience of God Promo Number: 285 Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm own? How many times have we that, in order to pray, it is enough does not block us, but frees us; it Sun: 2pm-8pm EST cloaked in religiosity the things we to say: ‘My Lord and my God,’ and does not imprison us, but puts us find convenient?” to let ourselves be pervaded by his back on our way, returning us to CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 In the Gospel story of the Three tender love,” the pope said. the usual places of our existence. License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# Kings, the high priests and scribes “Worship means concentrat- The places are the same but, after HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918

13622-0110 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# know all the prophecies about the ing on what is essential: ridding the encounter with Christ, we are PA069383 Suff olk HIC License# 52229-H *Contact us for additonal details birth of the Messiah, yet they do ourselves of useless things and ad- not the same as before.” n Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic VATICAN NEWS A14 Pope sets day to honor, study, share Bible

CAROL GLATZ jority” of Catholics are not familiar The homily “is a pastoral oppor- “The Bible is the book of the Catholic News Service with sacred Scripture. For many, tunity that should not be wasted,” Lord’s people, who, in listening to it, the only time they hear the word of he wrote. “For many of our faithful, move from dispersion and division VATICAN CITY | The newly es- God is when they attend Mass, he in fact, this is the only opportunity toward unity” as well as come to tablished “Sunday of the Word of told Vatican News Sept. 30, when they have to grasp the beauty of understand God’s love and become God” is an invitation to Catholics the papal document, titled “Aperuit God’s word and to see it applied to inspired to share it with others, he to deepen their appreciation, love Illis,” was published. their daily lives.” added. and faithful witness to God and his “The Bible is the most widely Pope Francis encouraged people The celebration of the Sunday of word, Pope Francis said. distributed book, but it’s also per- to read the Second Vatican Coun- the Word of God also “has ecumeni- By papal decree, the third Sun- haps the one most covered in dust cil’s Dogmatic Constitution on cal value, since the Scriptures point day in Ordinary Time — Jan. 26 because it is not held in our hands,” Divine Revelation, “Dei Verbum,” out, for those who listen, the path to this year — is to be observed as a the archbishop said. and Pope Benedict XVI’s apostolic authentic and firm unity,” he wrote. special day devoted to “the celebra- With this apostolic letter, the exhortation on the Bible, “Verbum The third Sunday in Ordinary Time tion, study and dissemination of the pope “invites us to hold the word Domini,” whose teaching remains falls during that part of the year word of God.” of God in our hands every day as “fundamental for our communi- when the church is encouraged to A day dedicated to the Bible will much as possible so that it becomes ties.” strengthen its bonds with the Jew- help the church “experience anew our prayer” and a greater part of Pope Francis holds the Book of The pope also suggested pas- ish people and to pray for Christian how the risen Lord opens up for us one’s lived experience, he said. the Gospels as he celebrates tors provide parishioners with the unity. the treasury of his word and enables In his letter, Pope Francis wrote, Mass marking the feast of the Bible, a book of the Gospels or other The document was published on us to proclaim its unfathomable “A day devoted to the Bible should Epiphany in St. Peter's Basilica at catechetical resources, “enthrone” the feast of St. Jerome, patron saint riches before the world,” the pope not be seen as a yearly event but the Vatican Jan. 6. (PAUL HARING the Bible in order to emphasize of biblical scholars and doctor of said in the document establishing rather a yearlong event, for we ur- | CNS). the honor and sacred nature of the the church, who said, “Ignorance the special Sunday observance. gently need to grow in our knowl- text, bless or commission lectors of of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” Dioceses and parishes have been edge and love of the Scriptures and Jesus speaks to everyone with his the parish and encourage people The title, “Aperuit Illis,” is based on invited to respond with creative ini- of the risen Lord, who continues to word in sacred Scripture, he said, to read and pay with Scripture ev- a verse from the Gospel of St. Luke, tiatives, helpful resources and re- speak his word and to break bread and if people “hear his voice and ery day, especially through “lectio “Then he opened their minds to un- newed efforts for helping Catholics in the community of believers.” open the doors of our minds and divina.” derstand the Scriptures.” engage more deeply with the Bible “We need to develop a closer re- hearts, then he will enter our lives “The Bible cannot be just the The pope said it is impossible to at church and in their lives. lationship with sacred Scripture; and remain ever with us.” heritage of some, much less a understand the Scriptures in depth Archbishop Rino Fisichella, otherwise, our hearts will remain Pope Francis urged priests to be collection of books for the ben- without the Lord who opens peo- president of the Pontifical Council cold and our eyes shut, struck as we extra attentive to creating a homily efit of a privileged few. It belongs ple’s minds to his word, yet “with- for Promoting New Evangelization, are by so many forms of blindness,” each Sunday that “speaks from the above all to those called to hear out the Scriptures, the events of the said added emphasis on the impor- he wrote. heart” and really helps people un- its message and to recognize mission of Jesus and of his church in tance of the word of God is needed Sacred Scripture and the sacra- derstand Scripture “through simple themselves in its words,” the this world would remain incompre- because “the overwhelming ma- ments are inseparable, he wrote. and suitable” language. pope wrote. hensible.” n OPINION The foxes and the henhouse Probably the biggest bioethics What does it mean to “rashly apply” community of scientists can be as tentionally aborted fetuses for re- gage in unethical research — and story of 2019 involved Dr. Jankui He a new technology like human gene they try to exercise the role of law- search, or to employ cloning tech- the involvement of communist se- (known to his associates as “JK”), editing? Who should determine if a yer, judge and jury of their own ethi- nology to produce new human life, cret courts is certainly far from ideal a Chinese scientist who employed particular use is “rash” or “reason- cal standards. or to manufacture three parent em- — we clearly need to promote, fund a new technology called CRISPR/ able”? Even though we should be jus- bryos, many biomedical research- and regulate modern biomedical Cas9 to produce the world’s first Dr. Rita Vassena, a member of tifiably alarmed at Chinese courts ers have come to rely so much on research in a way that prioritizes gene-edited babies. JK made ge- the Executive Committee of the Eu- meting out jail time in secret to sci- ethical rubber stamps that they just ethics over expediency. netic changes to two little girls, ropean Society of Human entific researchers, the fact venture ahead, confident that they This means establishing signifi- Lulu and Nana, when they were Reproduction and Embry- remains that it was a gov- won’t be “fenced in” by ethical con- cant sanctions and funding restric- early-stage embryos, attempting to ology, framed the ethical ernment-controlled court siderations. tions when ethical violations by modify a receptor for HIV to confer concerns around JK’s case that finally put some teeth JK’s gene-editing experiments researchers occur. It also means resistance to a possible future infec- this way: “As the current into ethical regulations. and China’s strong reaction have including alternative viewpoints tion from the virus. He publicly an- scientific consensus indi- In the West, to have gov- at least managed to bring the ethi- on ethics review panels, especially nounced the birth of the girls at an cates, the use of CRISPR/ ernments, courts or major cal concerns momentarily back those informed by longstanding international scientific conference Cas9 in human embryos institutions take any ac- into the spotlight. “I think a jail religious and philosophical tra- near the end of 2018, and as the destined to give rise to a tion whatsoever in a case sentence is the proper punish- ditions, like that of the Catholic news rapidly spread, many scien- pregnancy is, at this stage, LIFE ISSUES like JK’s seems at present ment for him,” said Wang Yuedan, Church, which offer the important tists and commentators expressed unjustified.” inconceivable. Instead, in a professor of immunology at Pe- perspective that certain ethical shock and dismay over his “design- She couches her ethi- Father American and European king University in comments he lines are not able to be moved or er baby” experiments. cal analysis, as many sci- Tad universities and industrial shared with the New York Times. redrawn. This kind of input can Chinese provincial authorities entists do, in terms of the Pacholczyk settings, we often encoun- “It makes clear our stance on the contribute much to the kinds of quickly became aware of his ac- “current scientific consen- ter feeble, meandering dis- gene editing of humans — that we discussions that need to occur, tivities as well, and he was placed sus.” But such “consensus” cussions about research are opposed to it … signaling that and can afford an important coun- under house arrest upon his return is an extremely malleable concept. ethics, along with a proliferation there is a bottom line that cannot terbalance to any foxes who desire from the conference. In the closing It also conveniently implies that of rubber-stamping “ethics review be broken.” to keep guard over the ethical hen- days of 2019, a secret trial was held, scientists themselves can set up panels.” These often consist of Yet this is precisely the difficulty house. n and he was sentenced to three years their own ethical rules and provide hand-picked members devoid of in biomedicine today: namely, that in prison for producing the CRISPR regulatory oversight for scientific strong ethical or religious training there are few, if any, “bottom lines” Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk babies. The trial proceedings con- research, so that they, in effect, be- and viewpoints. Such panels give when it comes to research ethics. earned his doctorate in neuro- cluded that JK had “rashly applied come the foxes guarding the hen- increasingly systematic cover for an The lines have become exceedingly science from Yale. He is a priest gene editing technology to human house. The saga that has unfolded ever-expanding range of unethical flexible, if the price is right or if a of the diocese of Fall River, MA, assisted reproductive medicine.” during the last year surrounding research practices. particular political administration and serves as the Director of Edu- The verdict reached by the Chi- the gene-editing experiments of JK Whether it’s giving a green light is amenable to re-drawing them. cation at The National Catholic nese court raises complex ques- has demonstrated, if nothing else, to use stem cells derived from hu- While there isn’t any perfect so- Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. tions that must be confronted: how self-serving and ineffective a man embryos or tissues from in- lution to ensure scientists never en- See www.ncbcenter.org A15 SUNDAY WORD and SCRIPTURE Florida Catholic Jan. 10-23, 2020

SCRIPTURE Always a choice Pointing a finger readings Sunday, Jan. 12 Sunday, Jan. 19 Friday, Jan. 10 The Baptism of the Lord Is 49:3,5-6; Ps 40:2, 4, 7-10, 1 Cor 1:1-3; 1 Jn 5:5-13; Ps 147:12-15, 19-20; Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1-4, 9-10; Acts 10:34- Jn 1:29-34 Lk 5:12-16 38; Mt 3:13-17 I suspect that it comes with Saturday, Jan. 11 I suspect that by the time we are age, but more and more I find 1 Jn 5:14-21; Ps 149:1-6a, 9b; Jn 3:22-30 arriving at the Baptism of the Lord, myself recalling a variety of pithy the poinsettias, if there are any left, childhood admonitions that were Sunday, Jan. 12 are but shabby remnants of their tossed my way in the course of previous glory; the community is growing up. Although, “tossed” is The Baptism of the Lord way past singing Christmas carols; probably a kinder way of describ- Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1-4, 9-10; Acts 10:34- and most, if not all, New Year reso- ing what in reality was most likely 38; Mt 3:13-17 lutions have been thrown curbside “knocked” into me. along with other post-Christmas One of those memorable admo- Monday, Jan. 13 trash. What started out as positive nitions, one I would wager many 1 Sm 1:1-8; Ps 116:12-19; Mk 1:14-20 choices for the of you heard as well, was, “It’s not unfolding year polite to point!” Tuesday, Jan. 14 ahead, now are Apparently, eschewing that 1 Sm 1:9-20; (Ps) 1 Sm 2:1, 4-8; consigned to moral directive, we confront John Mk 1:21-28 “well, at least I the Baptist in today’s Gospel. Nu- had good inten- merous classic artistic renditions Wednesday, Jan. 15 tions!” of John depict him with arm ex- “Choice” tended, and crooked, weathered, ‘Numerous classic artistic 1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20; Ps 40:2, 5, 7-10; is a word and and elongated finger, pointing to renditions of John depict him Mk 1:29-39 reality woven Jesus. I particularly am moved with arm extended, and crooked, SUNDAY weathered, and elongated Thursday, Jan. 16 WORD throughout our by two painters, amazingly work- finger. ... We have inherited the sacred Scrip- ing around the same time (the Baptist’s role as “pointer. We are 1 Sm 4:1-11; Ps 44:10-11, 14-15, 24-25; Father ture for this late 1400s and early 1500s), who called, formed and sent so that Mk 1:40-45 Ben closing festival make this narrative scene come the glory of the Lord might shine Berinti, of the Christ- alive. Matthias Grunewald and through us, as we make Jesus Friday, Jan. 17 mas season. Jacopo del Sellaio vividly capture known to a waiting world. ” 1 Sm 8:4-7, 10-22a; Ps 89:16-19; CPPS The prophet the drama and the true identity of Mk 2:1-12 Isaiah waxes Christ’s baptism by St. John John, whose critical mission we we meet today via that infamous poetic in some the Baptist at the Jordan River learn is to show others the way to pointing finger: “Look, there is the Saturday, Jan. 18 of the most affirming words in all is depicted in a stained-glass the Christ. Lamb of God!” Curiously, even as the Hebrew Scripture—God has While the Church returns to the he is pointing to the Lord, the One 1 Sm 9:1-4, 17-19; 10:1a; Ps 21:2-7; window at the Co-Cathedral Mk 2:13-17 chosen God’s servants, and God of St. Joseph in Brooklyn, N.Y. liturgical season of Ordinary Time whom he proclaimed was com- has done so in a tender, compel- this weekend, sacred Scripture ing, the Baptist admits (twice for (GREGORY A. SHEMITZ | CNS) Sunday, Jan. 19 ling and profound way. Hands are for this Sunday indicates there is emphasis), “I did not know him.” grasped and people are formed undertaking in choosing to have never anything “ordinary” about However, now that Jesus is Is 49:3,5-6; Ps 40:2, 4, 7-10, 1 Cor 1:1-3; into radiant lights and steadfast their child baptized. And then the lives of those who choose the passing by, he realizes his sole Jn 1:29-34 covenants. again, seconds before the child’s respond to a summons to disciple- mission, the whole purpose of The Acts of the Apostles reaf- water-bath, after the renewal of ship. his baptism of repentance, and Monday, Jan. 20 firms that when it comes to the baptismal promises, the parents We continue reading from the the entire focus of readying the 1 Sm 15:16-23; Ps 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23; kind of choosing by God Isaiah il- are asked (just to be sure!), “is it great prophet of the Babylonian way—is all about pointing to the Mk 2:18-22 lustrates in the first reading—there your will that your child be bap- Exile, Isaiah, who in spite of much Lord and making Jesus known. is no partiality. God chooses freely, tized into the faith we have all evidence to the contrary, uses his This seems to be, in minia- Tuesday, Jan. 21 widely, and surprisingly (at least just professed with you?” A sec- prophetic charism to enkindle ture, what our life as disciples and 1 Sm 16:1-13; Ps 89:20-22, 27-28; it seems so to us in our narrow- ond moment of choice. hope in a despondent people. He evangelizers is meant to be—to Mk 2:23-28 mindedness and narrow-hearted- But as we know, this is only the declares that those whom God make known the Lord, the One ness). Jesus goes about “doing good start of a lifetime of choices, on the chooses are “servants,” whose who has entered our lives through Wednesday, Jan. 22 and healing” in order to remove part of the parents, godparents, the primary purpose, direction and water and the Holy Spirit. the obstacles that prevent people baptizing community—and the meaning in life is to “show God’s Perhaps an element of that 1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51; Ps 144:1b, 2, from seeing just how much God baptized child. glory” through the way they con- childhood lesson still works, but 9-10; Mk 3:1-6 loves them and chooses them for As this New Year continues to duct their lives. And this call to truth be told, we have inherited God’s purposes. unfold, and we make our way to servant-witness doesn’t begin the Baptist’s role as “pointer.” We Thursday, Jan. 23 Finally, in the Evangelist Mat- the next big thing—the season of with a particular religious ritual, are called, formed and sent so St. Agnes, virgin and martyr thew’s rendering of the baptism of Lent—many choices lay ahead for or a coming-of-age infusion of that the glory of the Lord might 1 Sm 18:6-9; 19:1-7; Ps 56:2-3, 9-13; the Lord, he wants to make it clear each of us. Some of these will be grace, or even a profound con- shine through us, as we make Je- Mk 3:7-12 that Jesus chooses to be baptized by joyous, some will be painful, some version experience, but rather its sus known to a waiting world. It John. It is such a surprising choice will be anticipated, while others spark can be traced all the way may be, according to our liturgical Friday, Jan. 24 that even John tries to prevent it, will arrive as total surprise, per- back to having been “formed in calendar Ordinary Time, but we Day of Prayer for the Legal Protec- but Jesus instructs him to allow it. haps even shock. the womb.” live in a never-ending “Advent,” tion of Unborn Children Jesus chooses to align himself not And in these moments, let us We then listen in on the open- in as much as the Lord is always 1 Sm 24:3-21; Ps 57:2-4, 6, 11; only with John’s preaching about recall the festival we celebrate to- ing of Paul’s first Letter to the Cor- coming toward us and drawing us Mk 3:13-19 the imminent arrival of the “day of day, which reminds us, that we ap- inthians, where he immediately into a future yet to be born in and the Lord,” but more importantly, at proach every choice set before us identifies himself as one “called through him. Saturday, Jan. 25 least for us, Jesus chooses to align as beloved daughters and sons of to be an apostle.” Although we As this new year unfolds with himself with unwashed men and God with an abundance of grace know of Paul’s rather over-the-top each passing day, what are we Acts 22:3-16; Ps 117:1-2; Mk 16:15-18 women, who themselves are now and the Spirit dwelling within us. conversion spectacle, we might “showing forth” in the way we in position to choose for God and God is still choosing us—grasp- suspect that in the view of Isa- live our lives each day? To what or Sunday, Jan. 26 . ing us by the hand, forming us, iah, God’s working on Paul came whom are we calling attention, to Is 8:23-9:3; Ps 27:1,4, 13-14; 1 Cor 1:10- At the beginning of each Rite calling us by name, and putting much earlier than that fateful day what or whom are we “pointing?” 13,17; Mt 4:12-23 of Baptism celebrated in the God’s Spirit upon us. n in route to Damascus. More importantly, are these ac- Church today, parents and god- The Evangelist John begins his tions, decisions, and a way of life parents are greeted by the sac- Father Berinti serves as pastor Im- “infancy narrative” before the cre- that are worthy of our deepest ramental minister and asked if maculate Conception Parish in ation of the world, and then jumps identity as sons and daughters of they have any idea what they are Melbourne Beach. right into the life of Jesus, whom God? n Jan. 10-23, 2020 Facebook.com/FloridaCatholic CLASSIFIEDS A16 CLASSIFIED ADS

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