AWESTNGELUSTEXAS Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Volume XXXVIII, No. 2 FEBRUARY 2018

Parishioners at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Odessa attend the dedication Mass for their newly expanded church. Story, Page 2; photos, Page 24

photo by Alan Torre

DIOCESE OF SAN ANGELO PO BOX 1829 NONPROFIT ORG. SAN ANGELO TX 76902-1829 US POSTAGE PAID Inside this issue: SAN ANGELO, TX PERMIT NO. 44 • Evangelization and Catechesis workshops, Pages 4–5 • Catholic Schools Week, Page 6 • Annual Financial Report, Pages 12–13 • Clergy Appreciation Dinner photos, Page 21 Page 2 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus The Inside Front Odessa parishioners celebrate dedication of new church After lengthy construction, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish has new altar, seating for 1,100

By Christopher Wilcox too.” Director of Music and Liturgy In the second reading, St. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Peter talked about living stones. Bishop Sis said that ODESSA — After one and a half years of worship- all of us are living stones: ing in a temporary space, not even temperatures in the “We are not dead and our 20s could keep the parishioners of St. Elizabeth Ann church is not dead. We are Seton from attending the dedication of their new church alive and we celebrate life and altar. On Sunday, Jan. 14, close to 1,500 filled the together here in his Church expanded church that now seats 1,100 to participate in where we meet Jesus Christ the dedication that was presided over by Bishop who is the source of life.” Michael J. Sis. Bishop Sis closed his homi- During the entrance procession, Fr. Rodney White, ly by asking those present dean of the Midland/Odessa deanery, carried in the what kind of stone they are relics of Saints Elizabeth Ann Seton, Vincent de Paul, going to be. A stone that is Pius X, and Teresa of Calcutta, which were placed thrown and used to hurt peo- beneath the new altar. In his opening remarks Bishop ple, a stone that is used to Sis told those present that they were witnessing history, build walls to keep people and that it’s not very often one is able to take part in away, or a stone that is used the rite of dedication of a church and blessing of a new to build bridges. He chal- altar. He congratulated the parishioners for building a lenged everyone to build Bishop Sis anoints the walls of the new church. (photo by Alan Torre / aptorre.com) beautiful house of God. bridges among people and In his homily, Bishop Sis said, “Together you’ve bridges between people and God, saying, “I know that demonstrated generosity in your life of stewardship as a you are very good builders and I look forward to many Related photos, cover and Page 24 community. Through careful planning you and your years of continuing to build the Kingdom of God with predecessors have built the most architecturally harmo- you who are living stones.” nious parish plant in the whole diocese of San Angelo. Following the Creed, the Litany of the Saints was These buildings give glory to God, and God is the chanted, and the bishop placed the relics of Saints deacons with a lighted candle saying “light of Christ, source of all beauty.” The bishop explained that the Elizabeth Ann Seton, Vincent de Paul, Pius X and shine forth in the Church and bring all nations to the buildings are important because of what takes place in Teresa of Calcutta beneath the altar. The bishop then fullness of truth.” The deacons then lit the altar candles, them, and that the liturgy is the summit toward which prayed the Prayer of Dedication and consecrated the Paschal candle and the candles in the twelve places the all the activity of the church is directed and the font new altar with Chrism. He was then joined by Father walls were anointed. from which all the life of the church flows. He spoke of Mark Woodruff, pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, in At the conclusion of the two and a half hour liturgy, the growing parish and neighborhood and that the anointing the walls of the church. After the anointings a Father Mark Woodruff thanked all those who made the church expansion will allow more people to come and brazier was placed on the altar with twelve bricks of expansion possible. He also thanked Monsignor join us here in our faith, and in doing the most impor- charcoal. The bishop then poured incense into the bra- Bridges, who was the founding pastor of St. Elizabeth tant thing we do as Catholics: the Holy Mass. He con- zier saying, “Lord, may our prayer ascend as incense in Ann Seton, and thanked him for being present. The tinued on saying, “as the years go by this beautiful your sight. As this building is filled with fragrance so bishop thanked both pastors for their dedication to the building will be a place where for generations, thou- may your Church fill the world with the fragrance of church and its people. St. Elizabeth has only had two sands of souls will come to see Jesus, and to know per- Christ.” pastors in its 36 years as a parish. sonally of his love. That day in the Gospel passage, After the bishop incensed the altar, deacons Gary St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish sits in northeast Jesus responded to Zacchaeus by going to stay at his Brooks and Salvador Primera incensed the people and Odessa and serves those living in the northeast part of house. And today Jesus comes to stay in this house the walls of the church. The bishop then presented the town.

Students from the Diocese of San Angelo attended the Student Leadership Summit in Chicago, Jan. 2- 6, 2018. The summit, presented by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS), is a weeklong con- ference for aspiring discipleship lead- ers. The DOSA contingent included 27 students from the Angelo State University Catholic Newman Center and about 15 students from the Midland area. (photo courtesy ASU Newman Center) The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 3 From The Bishop’s Desk The Kingdom of God By Bishop Michael Sis rules – there is the Kingdom. Kingdom in his earthly ministry, Diocese of San Angelo We find references to the and it continues to grow, like the Kingdom of God in both the Old growth of a mustard seed. Right Jesus Christ preached about and New Testaments. This theme now, at our point in human history, many things during his earthly is especially frequent in the synop- we are in the phase of the gradual ministry. Of all the things he tic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and growth of the Kingdom of God. taught, the cen- Luke), showing that God’s king- The Catechism of the Catholic tral topic in his dom is the central theme of Jesus’ Church states, “the renewal of the preaching was message. When he begins his pub- world is irrevocably underway” the Kingdom of lic ministry in Mark 1:14, his very (no. 670). The Kingdom of God is God. In some first words are these: “This is the already present among us, but it is passages it is time of fulfillment. The Kingdom not yet completely fulfilled. It will called the of God is at hand. Repent and be completely fulfilled at the end “Reign of God,” believe in the Gospel.” Later, of history, with the Second the “Kingdom of Jesus created many parables as Coming of Christ. Heaven,” or sim- teaching devices to explain the Is the Kingdom of God the Bishop Sis ply the Kingdom of God. same thing as the Church? Not “Kingdom.” St. Paul also writes about the exactly. The Church is at the serv- These are just different ways of Kingdom of God in some of his ice of the Kingdom. The Church saying the same thing. letters. For example, in Romans proclaims the Kingdom and works Since the Kingdom of God is 14:17, he offers a very helpful toward its establishment. The so predominant in the teaching of description: “The Kingdom of God Church encourages people to obey Jesus, we cannot really understand is … a matter of justice, peace, the will of God. And the more that him unless we have some idea of and joy in the Holy Spirit.” This happens, the more God reigns. what the Kingdom of God is. It is makes perfect sense when we In our prayer life as Christians, not a country. It does not issue think about the fact that, when we pray the Lord’s Prayer every passports. The Kingdom of God is people follow the will of God, it day. In that prayer, we are actually not a typical kingdom. The clear- brings about justice, peace, and praying for the coming of the est way to summarize the joy. Kingdom of God when we say, Kingdom of God is this: it is the Is the Kingdom of God some- “Thy Kingdom come; thy will be Parishioners gather at the blessing of the candles during the Mass of the Presentation of the Lord, sometimes also situation where God’s will is being thing already present now, or is it done.” known as Candlemas, Dec. 2, at Sacred Heart Cathedral in done. Wherever God reigns, where a future reality? It is actually San Angelo. (photo by Rose Pelzel) God calls the shots, where God both. Jesus inaugurated the (Please see BISHOP/22)

The Prayer Square El Reino de Dios Obispo Michael Sis (Mateo, Marcos y Lucas), decidida de manera irrevocable” demostrando que el Reino de (#670). El Reino de Dios ya está Jesucristo predicó acerca de Dios es el tema central del men- presente entre nosotros, pero no Communications muchas cosas durante su minis- saje de Jesús. Cuando comienza se ha cumplido todavía por terio terrenal. De todas las cosas su ministerio público en Marcos completo. Se cumplirá en su que él enseñó, 1:14, sus primeras palabras son totalidad al final de la historia, Prayer el tema central éstas: “Se ha cumplido el tiem- con la Segunda Venida de de su predi- po, y el Reino de Dios ya está Cristo. Editor’s Note: This prayer was written by Pope cación era el cerca. Arrepiéntanse y crean en ¿Es el Reino de Dios lo Francis, and published on Jan. 24, 2018, on the Reino de Dios. el Evangelio.” Más tarde, Jesús mismo que la Iglesia? No exac- occasion of World Day of Communications. It is En algunos creó muchas parábolas como tamente. La Iglesia está al servi- based on the Prayer of St. Francis, but adapted pasajes se le dispositivos de enseñanza para cio del Reino. La Iglesia procla- to relate to our need for good communication llama el explicar el Reino de Dios. ma el Reino y trabaja para su today. “Reino de San Pablo también escribe crecimiento. La Iglesia anima a Dios,” “el sobre el Reino de Dios en algu- la gente a obedecer la voluntad Obispo Sis Reino de los nas de sus cartas. Por ejemplo, de Dios. Y cuanto más pasa eso, Lord, make us instruments of your peace. en Romanos 14:17, él ofrece más reina Dios. Help us to recognize the evil latent in a Cielos”, o sim- communication that does not build plemente el “Reino.” Estas son una descripción muy útil: “El En nuestra vida de oración communion. sólo diferentes formas de decir Reino de Dios…consiste en la como cristianos, rezamos el Help us to remove the venom from our lo mismo. justicia, la paz, y alegría en el Padre Nuestro todos los días. En judgements. Puesto que el Reino de Dios Espíritu Santo.” Esto tiene esa oración, en realidad estamos Help us to speak about others as our brothers es tan predominante en la mucho sentido cuando pen- orando por la venida del Reino and sisters. enseñanza de Jesús, realmente samos en el hecho de que, cuan- de Dios cuando decimos, You are faithful and trustworthy; may our no podemos entenderlo a menos do las personas siguen la volun- “Venga tu Reino; hágase tu vol- words be seeds of goodness for the world: que tengamos una idea de lo que tad de Dios, trae la justicia, la untad.” where there is shouting, let us practice es el Reino de Dios. No es un paz y la alegría. Si realmente vamos a permi- listening; país. No emite pasaportes. El ¿Es el Reino de Dios algo ya tir que Dios sea nuestro rey, y where there is confusion, let us inspire Reino de Dios no es un reino presente ahora, o se trata de una no sólo un padre de figuras, harmony; típico. La forma más clara de realidad futura? En realidad, son entonces él realmente regirá where there is ambiguity, let us bring clarity; resumir el Reino de Dios es la ambas cosas. Jesús inauguró el sobre nosotros. Él será el rey de where there is exclusion, let us offer solidarity; siguiente: es la situación donde Reino en su ministerio terrenal, la totalidad de nuestras vidas. Él where there is sensationalism, let us use se hace la voluntad de Dios. y continúa creciendo, al igual será nuestro rey no sólo en la sobriety; Donde Dios reina, donde Dios que el crecimiento de una semil- luz del día, sino también en la where there is superficiality, let us raise real manda, donde Dios gobierna – la de mostaza. En este momen- noche. El reinará no sólo sobre questions; allí es el Reino. to, en nuestro punto de la histo- nuestra vida pública, sino tam- where there is prejudice, let us awaken trust; Encontramos referencias al ria humana, nos encontramos en bién en nuestra vida privada. Él where there is hostility, let us bring respect; Reino de Dios en el Antiguo y la fase del crecimiento gradual será nuestro rey no sólo el where there is falsehood, let us bring truth. Nuevo Testamentos. Este tema del Reino de Dios. El Catecismo Amen. es especialmente frecuente en de la Iglesia Católica dice, “la los Evangelios sinópticos renovación del mundo está ya (Mira OBISPO/22) Page 4 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus ‘Be My Witness’ program attendees bond, share experiences By Alicia and Higenio Fuentes The response to the initial announce- was initially opened to all parishioners aided in providing a service meeting the St. Margaret of Scotland Parish ment was such that the responding num- and even included some from St. needs of parishioners. These assessments bers of parishioners were divided into Joseph’s and St. Mary’s in San Angelo. also helped determine what the parish SAN ANGELO — The “Be My three groups conducted in English and Prior to the commencement of the could do to interact with both parish- Witness” program, which was begun dur- one group conducted in Spanish. The program, five assessments focusing on ioners and outside agencies to further ing the 2017 Lenten season at St. numbers within each group were such certain aspects of parish life were com- evangelization needs, thereby drawing Margaret of Scotland Parish in San that group leaders were able to interact pleted by a random number of parish- more people to the life of Christ. Angelo, Texas, came to its conclusion on with their group members to attain a har- ioners. The topics covered by the assess- Prior to each nightly session, a brief Dec. 18, 2017. This evangelization pro- mony of faith sharing amongst the atten- ments included Evangelization Matters, fellowship period was held during which gram, which brings the good news of dees while meeting the program’s intend- Sunday Matters, Welcome Matters, a meal was shared with everyone, with Christ to all, was initially begun in March ed purpose — following the life of Belonging Matters, Witness Matters and food and drinks provided by different 2017 and consisted of twelve sessions: Christ. In November the “Be My Mission Matters. These assessments dis- attendees. Being able to sit down and six held once a week during the 2017 Witness” program resumed for the final closed how parishioners perceived servic- have a brief social period aided in estab- Lenten period, and six sessions held to six sessions, which brought about the es were being conducted and the way lec- coincide with the 2017 Advent season. completion of the program. The program tors, liturgical ministers and the choir (Please see WITNESS/22)

Attendees of the “Be My Witness” program hosted by St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in San Angelo, along with Father Santiago Udayar, pastor of St. Margaret Parish (far left); and Sister Hilda Marotta, OSF (front row, third from left), and Sister Adelina Garcia, OSF (front row, far right), both of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis. (Courtesy photo)

CALENDARS

BISHOP’S SCHEDULE 22 — SAN JUAN, Basilica of San Juan, at 5:30 p.m. MARCH FEBRUARY Ordination of Auxiliary Bishop Aviles at 6:00 p.m. 29 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, 1-4 — Men’s Walk to Emmaus 2 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, 25 — ODESSA, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Rite Holy Thursday Mass at 7:00 p.m. 5 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group Mass of the Presentation of the Lord at 6:00 p.m. of Election at 2:00 p.m. 30 — SAN ANGELO, St. Margaret, Soup lunch 7 — Lenten Day of Reflection 3 — SAN ANGELO, Holy Angels Parish Hall, 26-28 — SAN ANTONIO, Tex-Mex Border at 11:30 a.m. 9-11 — Deacon Formation Knights of Columbus Diocesan Conference Bishops’ meeting 30 — SAN ANGELO, St. Margaret, Good 11 — Inquiry Session for the Permanent 3 — MIDLAND, St. Ann, Mardi Gras Dinner at Friday Procession at 1:00 p.m. Diaconate 6:00 p.m. MARCH 30 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, 12 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group 4 — MIDLAND, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mass 3 — ODESSA, St. Mary’s Central Catholic Service of the Passion at 7:00 p.m. 15 — Staff Mass & Lunch at 8:00 a.m. School, Diocesan Schools Commission at 9:00 31 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, 18 — Confirmation Retreat 4-6 — BILOXI, MS, Bishops’ meeting a.m. Easter Vigil at 8:30 p.m. 19 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group 8 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Pastoral Center, 3 — MIDLAND, St. Stephen, Religious 23-25 — Engaged Encounter Priest Personnel Board meeting at 10:15 a.m. Discernment Day 25 — Natural Family Planning 5 — MIDLAND, St. Stephen, Adult 30 — CKRC Offices closed in observance of 8 — MIDLAND, St. Stephen, Project Andrew CHRIST THE KING Dinner, Social at 6:00 p.m., Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Confirmation Mass at 7:00 p.m. Good Friday 9-10 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Pastoral 7 — SAN ANGELO, Christ the King Retreat RETREAT CENTER Center, Deacon Candidate interviews Center, Staff Lenten Day of Prayer at 9:00 a.m. FEBRUARY NECROLOGY PRIESTS 11 — ABILENE, Holy Family, Adult 9-10 — CONCEPTION, MO, Conception 2-3 — First Central Presbyterian Women’s FEBRUARY 9 — Rev. Albert Fuytinck, CSSR (1997) Confirmation Mass at 3:00 p.m. Seminary College Board of Regents meetings Conference 4 — Confirmation Retreat 10 — Rev. Leo E. Lavoie (1978) 13 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Pastoral 12 — WASHINGTON, DC, USCCB Doctrine 15 — Rev. Frank Colacicco (2006) Center, Presbyteral Council meeting at 11:00 a.m. Committee meeting 5 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group 21 — Rev. Tom Kelley (2005) 14 — ODESSA, UTPB Mesa Building, Ash 14 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Pastoral 9-11 — Deacon Formation 22 — Rev. Francisco Lopez (1994) Wednesday Mass at 12:00 noon Center, Priestly Life and Formation meeting at 11 — Inquiry Session for the Permanent 14 — MIDLAND, Midland College Chapel, Ash 11:00 a.m. Diaconate MARCH Wednesday Mass at 5:30 p.m. 18 — SWEETWATER, Holy Spirit, Mass and 12 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group 10 — Rev. Stephen Kennelly (2017) 16 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Pastoral blessing at 11:00 a.m. 15 — Staff Mass & Lunch 11 — Rev. Leopold J. Bujinowski (1976) 20 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Pastoral 16-18 — Engaged Encounter 14 — Rev. George Fey, CPPS (2013) Center, Liturgical Commission meeting at 10:00 26 — Rev. Serran Braun (1999) a.m. Center, Presbyteral Council meeting at 11:00 a.m. 18 — Natural Family Planning 18 — EDEN, St. Charles, Mass at 11:00 a.m. 22 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, 19 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group NECROLOGY DEACONS 18 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Chrism Mass at 11:00 a.m. 20-21 — DOSA Spring Priests Convocation FEBRUARY Rite of Election at 3:00 p.m. 22 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, 22-25 — Men’s Small Town ACTS Retreat 2 — Deacon Pedro Sanchez (2013) 20-21 — SAN ANGELO, Christ the King Vocation Team meeting at 2:00 p.m. 25 — St. Ambrose First Holy Communion 5 — Deacon David King (2006) Retreat Center, Priests’ Spring Conference 25 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Retreat 11 — Deacon Ray Smith (2014) 21 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan Pastoral Palm Sunday Mass at 10:00 a.m. 26 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group 20 — Deacon Mark Reeh (2005) Center, Deans’ meeting at 1:00 p.m. 25 — SAN ANGELO, Holy Angels, Seder Meal The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 5 Diocese hosts ‘Serving Students with Special Needs’ workshop By Sister Hilda Marotta, OSF Director, Office of Evangelization and Catechesis Diocese of San Angelo

SAN ANGELO — The “Serving Students with Special Needs” workshop was held Jan. 14, 2018, at the McNease Convention Center in San Angelo. This work- shop, hosted by the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, was sponsored by Loyola Press, A Jesuit Ministry. Luci Holloway, Educational Sales Consultant from Loyola Press, was the presenter for this event. The National Directory for Catechesis states: “All persons with disabilities have the capacity to proclaim the Gospel and to be living witnesses to its truth within the community of faith and offer valuable gifts. Their involvement enriches every aspect of Church life. They are not just recipients of catechesis—they are also its agents.” It continues, “All persons with disabilities or special needs should be welcomed in the Church. Every person, however limited, is capable of growth to holiness.” The focus of this workshop was to learn how to begin and implement programs for students with special Luci Holloway presents to workshop attendees on Jan. 14. In the foreground are some of the catechesis resources dis- needs in one’s parish. It proved to be a very fruitful cussed at the workshop, which participants were given time to work with. gathering. Holloway began the presentation with the call of the Church—all members of the Body of Christ are She introduced the “Adaptive Program Finding God” Joseph, and St. Mary, San Angelo; St. Peter, Mertzon; called to holiness. She identified various kinds of dis- from Loyola Press as a resource to assist with the cate- San Miguel Arcángel, Midland; Our Lady of San Juan, abilities and how to recognize and address them at the chesis for students with special needs. Holy Redeemer, and St. Joseph, Odessa; Holy Spirit, parish level. Models of catechesis were addressed recog- All recognized the importance of reaching out to Sweetwater; and St. Ambrose, Wall. nizing that there is not only one model to be used. She families of students with special needs. It is important to We are grateful to Luci Holloway and Loyola Press spoke of the importance of working with personnel from involve the pastor and community in understanding spe- for sponsoring this workshop for the Diocese of San schools and community agencies that can be resources cial needs. Many times people are not aware of students Angelo. to parishes. She also spoke of the Multiple Intelligences with special needs in the parish, thus failing to respond If you are aware of a special need individual in your identified by Howard Gardner and the importance of to their needs. parish and need information on how to provide catech- teaching to student strengths. In order to be effective in Participating parishes/missions were: St. Vincent esis, please contact your parish office or the Office of meeting the needs of the children, one needs to be aware Pallotti, Abilene; Our Lady of Guadalupe, Ft. Stockton; Evangelization and Catechesis at evangelizationcatech- of the many ways people learn. St. Mary, Brownwood; Sacred Heart Cathedral, St. [email protected] or 325-651-7500. Taller de RICA programado para marzo | RCIA workshop planned for March El taller de RICA “La Jornada: Iniciación Cristiana para Adultos y la Formación de The RCIA workshop “La Jornada: Iniciación Cristiana para Adultos y la Formación Discípulos Comprometidos” será presentada en español el 10 de marzo de 2018 en de Discípulos Comprometidos” will be held in Spanish on March 10, 2018, at the el Centro de Convenciones McNease de las 9:30 a.m. a las 3:30 p.m. La presentado- McNease Convention Center from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The presenter for the day ra del día será la Dra. Dolores Martínez de San Antonio, TX. will be Dolores Martinez from San Antonio, TX.

El día será una oportunidad para aprender más del proceso del RICA. Se cubrirán This day will be an opportunity to learn more about the RCIA process. The different las etapas (pasos), ritos y música apropiada, con tiempo para preguntas para inclui- steps, rituals and appropriate music will be covered along with a question and da en el día. Recursos en español serán disponibles. answer period. Spanish resources will be made available.

Para más información vea el volante en la pagina 11 o contacte la Oficina de For more information, see the flyer on page 11 or contact the Office of Evangelización y Catequesis 325-651-7500 o correo electrónico Evangelization and Catechesis at 325-651-7500 or [email protected]. [email protected].

DIOCESAN BRIEFS

Bishop’s Ash Wednesday Cost: Adults, $10; children, $5; active duty Lenten Penance Service those who simply want more information on reli- campus Masses in Odessa, military, $8 Schedule, San Angelo Deanery gious life, at St. Stephen Parish in Midland on Midland Includes drink and dessert Feb. 28 – St. Ann, Sonora, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Takeout available For more information, contact Kristie Garcia Bishop Sis will celebrate two Masses for local March 1 – St. Joseph, San Angelo, 7:00 p.m. For more information, please call 325-651- in the diocesan vocation office, kgarcia@sanan- university communities on two college campuses March 12 – St. Mary, Ballinger, time tbd 4633. gelodiocese.org, or 325-651-7500, or see the in the diocese on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 14. March 14 – Sacred Heart Cathedral, San flyer on page 23. The first Mass will be held at noon on the Angelo, time tbd campus of The University of Texas of the David Kauffman returns to St. March 15 – St. Charles, Eden, 6:00 p.m. Permian Basin (UTPB) in Odessa on the second Ann, Midland, for a Lenten March 19 – St. Joseph, Rowena, 6:30 p.m. Victims Assistance Information March 19 – St. Mary, San Angelo, 7:30 p.m. If you or someone you know has been floor of the Mesa Building in the MPR room. Parish Mission sexually abused by anyone who serves the The second campus Mass of the day will be Monday, February 26 at 6:30 p.m. March 21 – Our Lady of Guadalupe, Eldorado, Church, and you need a place to talk with held in the chapel at Midland College at 5:30 David Kauffman is the founder of Good For time tbd someone about your feelings of betrayal or p.m. The Soul Music of San Antonio. He will March 21 – St. Patrick, Brady, time tbd hurt by the Church due to abuse, exploita- present a night filled with scripture, song, story March 21 – St. Margaret, San Angelo, time tbd tion, or harassment, we are here to help Friday fish fry during Lent at St. and reflection. Prepare to open March 22 – St. Ambrose, Wall, time tbd you. To report sexual misconduct call Lori Margaret, San Angelo your hearts and hear God’s word during this spe- March 26 – Newman Center, San Angelo, 7:30 Hines, Victim Assistance Coordinator, 325- p.m. 374-7609, or write Diocese of San Angelo St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in San cial Lenten Mission Night. Bring your family and friends and sing along to Victim Assistance Ministry, PO Box 1829, Angelo, located at 2619 Era Ave., will be selling Religious Life Workshop San Angelo, TX 76902, If the sexual abuse fried fish dinners every Friday during Lent favorites like Be Still and Behold. All are occurred outside this diocese, the Victim There will be a day of informative sessions (except Good Friday). welcome! A free will offering will be accepted. Assistance Coordinator will assist in bring- about religious life for those who feel they may Dates: Feb. 14 – Mar. 23, 2018 For more information contact Francis Hymel ing the concern to the appropriate authori- be hearing the call to be a religious sister, or for Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at 432-638- 2482 or [email protected]. ties. Page 6 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus National Catholic Schools Week Students, faculty throughout diocese celebrate Catholic Schools Week The Angelus appreciation to the people who make a Catholic education in West Texas possible: The week of Jan. 28–Feb. 3 was a special students, teachers, parents, grandparents, vol- one for the students and alumni of the three unteers, parishioners and the wider Catholic Catholic schools in the Diocese of San community. Angelo. National Catholic Schools Week, an Starting last year, St. Ann School even annual event since 1974, serves as an oppor- added a special Grandparents Day to Catholic tunity to showcase the good provided by a Schools Week. “So many of our grandparents Catholic education, both to the students and are very active in their grandchild’s life and to society as a whole. The three schools in the we see so many at school daily,” says princi- diocese showed how they are living up to the pal Joan Wilmes. “Our turnout was so large potential offered by a Catholic education last year we moved it to the gym and even through a variety of activities. then, we ran out of food. It was great fun to Students at Angelo Catholic School in San enjoy the day with our grandparents!” Angelo got a head start on the week by writ- The activities continued through the week. ing thank you notes to volunteer organiza- Friday, Feb. 2 saw the middle school students tions on Friday, Jan. 26. Sunday saw the of Angelo Catholic School participate in read- Eagle Choristers performing during a Mass at ing to the younger students. St. Ann School Holy Angels Parish, followed by an open closed out the week with a Mass during house for new parents at the school. In which “Distinguished Graduates” selected Midland, the students of St. Ann Catholic through a nomination process spoke to the School also started the week out with an open students about how their lives were influ- house – theirs for prospective students and enced by a Catholic education. Friday at St. families – following a “Pack the Pews” Mass Mary School was Family Day, with all invit- with Bishop Michael Sis presiding. ed for popcorn and hot cocoa after school. The students at St. Mary Central Catholic The students of St. Mary were also invited to School in Odessa began their school week on attend Mass at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Monday with their own volunteer work, mak- Church to be recognized the weekend of Feb. ing placemats to take to various nursing 3–4. homes throughout the community. On According to the United States Tuesday, the students were treated to a lunch Conference of Catholic Bishops, 99 percent of hotdogs grilled by principal Benjamin of Catholic school students graduate high Villarreal. school, with 86 percent going on to attend A common theme throughout the week college. The activities throughout the week was a show of thankfulness to those who were aimed at showing how the schools live have worked to advance the work of the up to the theme of this year’s Catholic Students of St. Ann Catholic School in Midland pose with their grandmothers during the schools. Throughout the week, all three Schools Week, “Catholic Schools: Learn. school’s second annual Grandparents Day, Friday, Jan. 26. (photos by Kari Rylander) schools dedicated days to showing their Serve. Lead. Succeed.” Bishops consider plans to revitalize appeal of a Catholic education By Dennis Sadowski remain a vibrant and important part of Also underlying the bishops' con- secular society. We are blessed that Catholic News Service family and church life. cerns are shifting demographics, tuition we're not as secular as many of the Sponsored by the University of costs and changes in the practice of the countries in Europe. But we are a very WASHINGTON — Catholic bishops Notre Dame, the meeting was the sixth faith, all of which influence whether secular society, and fewer and fewer are looking to "transform" Catholic in a series since 2009 looking at the parents decide to enroll their children people see the value of that spiritual schools in response to decades of future of Catholic education. in Catholic schools. development. I think that becomes the declining enrollment that has forced Forming the backdrop are sobering Bishop Murry said the simple mes- task of evangelization. Just programs to hundreds of schools to close since statistics on school closings and declin- sage that Catholic schools transform get people into church are not enough. 2005. ing enrollment. lives must become the church's basic We have to change hearts. The effort, said the chairman of the Figures from the National Catholic refrain. "It's not simply a matter of an intel- U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Educational Association show 1,393 "Many parents don't see particular lectual decision. It's a realization that I Committee on Catholic Education, Catholic school closings or consolida- value in the religious formation that want the very best for my son or my encompasses a wide-ranging look at tions from 2007 to 2017 compared with occurs in a Catholic school," Bishop daughter. And part of the best is that issues facing Catholic schools and a 287 school openings. During the same Murry said. "So how can we challenge that child is eventually in heaven," he renewed effort to help parents better period, enrollment declined by 19 per- some of those ideas so people come to said. understand that the spiritual develop- cent to less than 1.9 million students. a better understanding of why it is Bishop Murry, 69, speaks from ment of a child goes hand in hand with Enrollment peaked in 1965 at more important to develop the entire per- experience. His parents, practicing academic achievement. than 5.2 million students. son?" Methodists at the time, took the unusual "The concern of the bishops is that The bishops and the educators Pastors, he explained, are diligently step of enrolling him in St. Catholic schools are valuable, Catholic focused on four trends during the meet- working to bring parents into parish Bartholomew School in Camden, New schools transform lives," said Bishop ing: schools to see firsthand the advantages Jersey, midway through his third-grade George V. Murry of Youngstown, Ohio. -- The changing relationship across a Catholic education has in developing school year. "It's not only talking about academics. Catholic school leadership including the "whole person." He recalled that he "didn't do well It's not only a matter of discipline, but those between bishop and pastors, pas- "Pastors with parishes with schools, in public school" and that the atmos- it's a matter of preparing the whole per- tors and principals, and principals and pastors with parishes without schools, phere at St. Bartholomew turned his life son for college and for heaven." teachers. parish school of religion directors have around. In an interview with Catholic News -- The evolving landscape of been working together to say it is a He credited Sister Mary Pauline, a Service following a Jan. 17-18 meeting Catholic school governance as more genuine value for the future to train the member of the Sisters of the Blessed at USCCB headquarters that included advisory boards of lay leaders take whole person, not just the mind or the Sacrament, the order founded by St. 30 bishops, educators and representa- shape. body -- the mind academically, the Katharine Drexel of nearby tives of Catholic education organiza- -- Expanding access to Catholic body in sports -- but also to develop the tions, Bishop Murry said the goal is to schools through educational choice. spiritual life," the bishop told CNS. ensure that Catholic schools will -- Charter school expansion. "Unfortunately, we live in a very (Please see EDUCATION/23) The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 7 From the Editor Hi! I’m (kinda) new here: An introduction Music changes at the cathedral SAN ANGELO — Over the last three months the style and presentation of By Brian Bodiford pleased to call the diocese home and fortu- music at Sacred Heart Cathedral has been undergoing a transformation. Under nate enough to have been able to help out the stewardship of Mr. John Webber, the new Director of Cathedral Music Greetings, dear reader. I hope you’re in a variety of ways around the office. In Ministries, several new or expanded opportunities are available for the New enjoying this month’s Angelus. There are a those college days, I don’t think there was Year. In addition, membership in the cathedral choirs will be open to parish- lot of good things happening in our dio- ever a time that I looked the short distance ioners from other parishes in the diocese. This is your diocesan cathedral; if cese, and it’s my goal to share some of it from the reception desk into Pete’s office you feel called, come join us and help make this vision happen. with you every month. You’ll notice that and envisioned myself in his shoes, but — much of the content of the paper is similar 14 years and a degree in English later — I Children’s Choir - open to children Adult Choir – the choir is looking for to what you’re used to (if it ain’t broke, couldn’t help but apply when the position in Grades 2-8 who love to sing. new members. The main rehearsal is don’t fix it, right?), and that some new became available, and now here I am, coin- Rehearsals are Wednesday from 5:00 on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 recurring features have begun to appear cidentally at the very same desk Pete used p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and the choir will p.m. A secondary rehearsal for those (“the Prayer Square”! – you can thank to prepare the Angelus from. I’m looking sing at the 10:00 a.m. Mass every who can’t make Thursday or just want Bishop Sis for the idea, and blame me for forward to the opportunity to get more other Sunday in the spring semester. the extra practice is Tuesday from the name). Jimmy Patterson has laid a firm involved and learn more about the people New members are welcome. The 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Adult Choir foundation for the Angelus over the past of the diocese. children’s choir is affiliated with the members choose which Mass to attend decade-plus, and the paper wouldn’t be But enough about me. Let’s get to the Royal School of Church Music and – Saturday at 5:00 p.m., Sunday at what it is without his leadership. real reason this paper exists – you. At its uses the “Voice for Life” curriculum. 10:00 a.m. or Sunday at 6:00 p.m. The Speaking of Jimmy, I need to take a heart, this newspaper has always been for The choir rehearses in the music choir meets half an hour before Mass moment to send a huge thank you to him. I and about you, the people of the diocese. In room. in the music room. know last month’s newspaper had my name Jimmy’s first issue (June 2005), he asked listed as the editor, but Jimmy was still for help from the people of the diocese: “A Choral Scholarships – for talented Spanish Choir – the Spanish Choir is responsible for about half the work that newspaper about people has to receive singers from 10th grade through col- also looking for new members. went into the January edition. Through sev- input from those same people if it has a lege. Twenty positions are available. Rehearsals are Tuesday from 6:00 eral trips to San Angelo to train me, a series chance to grow and flourish. So if there’s This program is about to start – and it p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mass is Sunday at of cloud-based file sharing sessions, and someone in your parish doing good; some- doesn’t involve a weekday rehearsal. noon. The choir meets half an hour countless phone calls, texts, and emails, one unique; someone going above and before Mass in the music room. Jimmy managed to get me to a place where beyond, not only for the Church but in his Music Reading Class – for those the newspaper was able to get to press on or her community, we’d like to hear about who would like to sing but feel they Robed Cantor/Animator Program – time. I couldn’t have done it without him. him or her.” This, more than anything else, would benefit from further skills in commencing in March – robed cantors Oh, and one more thing – Jimmy’s men- is the legacy I’d like to see the West Texas music reading. The class meets will stay in the sanctuary for the dura- tioned that as he travels around the country Angelus continue to evince. This is your Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. tion of Mass in order to encourage enjoying life after the Angelus, he’s likely paper, and we’re going to need your help to in the music room. stronger and more consistent congre- to find something to write about from time keep it the best it can be. I’m eager to hear gational participation. to time. It’s hard to kick something like from you. Tell me what you like and what For more details, or to get involved in any of these programs, contact John writing cold turkey. I’ve invited him to you’d like to see more of. Please drop me a Webber at [email protected] or call the cathedral office at 325- share whenever the urge strikes him. I’d line anytime at bbodiford@sanangelodio- 658-6567. wager that we haven’t seen the last of Mr. cese.org. I look forward to your input. Patterson in these pages. Lastly, before I leave you to continue While Jimmy is on the move these days, perusing the February issue, I want to heading all around the country, I’ve taken a extend some final thanks: to Jimmy, again, Celebrating the significant moment to reflect on how far I’ve gotten because I can’t do it enough; to Bishop since he took over the paper. And the truth Mike for entrusting me with the responsi- contributions made by Catholic schools is . . . about 20 feet. I was fortunate enough bilities of the diocesan newspaper; to my By Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas beliefs. Nationwide, 20.8 percent of the to have a job at the diocese during college family and loved ones for putting up with Catholic News Service students are racial minorities -- 17.4 per- as one of the receptionists when Bishop me as I fretted and stressed over the new cent are Hispanic/Latino -- and 19 per- Pfeifer was still years away from retire- job; and to each and every person who sub- Editor's Note: In this guest commen- cent are non-Catholic. ment. Beginning in August 2003, I was mitted anything to this issue — photos, sto- tary for Catholic News Service, retired Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, We celebrate proven academic excel- answering the phone and passing any calls ries, ideas, anything at all. It really is a lence in an environment where all stu- about the newspaper to Pete Micale, who community effort to get this newspaper out Arizona, says there is "much to celebrate" about the nation's Catholic schools during dents are challenged to excel. Catholic preceded Jimmy in editorial duties. I’m every month. I look forward to continuing National Catholic Schools Week. The bish- school students have a 99 percent on- sure many of you still remember him. to work with each and every one of you out op is chairman of the board of the National time graduation rate. Eighty-four percent Through college and afterward, I’ve been there. Catholic Educational Association and a attend four-year colleges and others con- member of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Catholic tinue their studies at community or tech- Education. nical colleges. Poorer and more at-risk students show the greatest achievement National Catholic Schools Week Jan. gains. Latino and African-American stu- 28-Feb. 3 highlights the significant con- dents in Catholic schools are more likely tribution of the 6,300 Catholic schools to graduate from high school and col- that serve 1.8 million students and their lege than their peers in public schools. families and communities. This week Students with multiple disadvantages gives us much to celebrate and provides benefit most from Catholic schools. an opportunity to advocate for greater We celebrate the contribution of government support to make it possible Catholic schools to society. Take the for more parents to choose the best cost of education. In Catholic schools, school for their child. the elementary mean cost (per pupil) is We celebrate the diversity of students $5,936 and secondary is $15,249. This is served by our Catholic schools. Since significantly below public school costs. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton opened the first Look at the results of a Catholic school parochial school for girls in education. Research demonstrates that Emmitsburg, Maryland, in 1810, our graduates are more likely to vote, be Catholic schools have proudly and more civically engaged, be more tolerant intentionally served the neediest and of diverse views, less likely to be incar- most ethnically diverse populations. cerated and are more committed to serv- Catholic schools look like America; they ice as adults. Graduates also enjoy serve children from all segments of soci- higher earning potential. Mrs. Penney Parker’s first grade class from St. Ann Catholic School in Midland, which led ety. Our doors are open to the poor, the Mass on Friday, Jan 26. (photo by Kari Rylander) immigrants and families of all faiths and (Please see CONTRIBUTIONS/23) Page 8 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus Speaking of Saints Spiritual brotherhood leads 7 from Florence to found Servite order They were a band of brothers, but not related by blood or family ties. Instead, they were drawn together out of concern about the immorality and blood feuds that characterized life in 13th century Florence. There were seven of them, ranging in age from 27-35, all from prominent Florentine families and working as cloth merchants. The eldest was Buonfiglio Monaldo who became their leader. The others were Alexis Falconieri, Benedict dell’ Antella, Bartholomew Amidei, Ricovero Uguccione, Gerardino Sostegni and John Buonagiunta. They joined the Confraternity of the Blessed Virgin around 1225, and it was that spiritual bond that changed their lives. They shared a mystical experience on the Feast of the Assumption in which Mary appeared to them. Rosemary Guiley writes in The Gibson Encyclopedia of Saints that she told them to Adult Confirmation at San Miguel Arcangel Parish in Midland, Jan. 28, including parishioners from San withdraw from the world and live a life of Miguel, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and St. Ann in Midland; St. Joseph in Stanton; and Our Lady of Guadalupe prayer and solitude as hermits. She assured them that she in Fort Stockton. (photo by Alan Torre / aptorre.com) would always protect and assist them. This radical life change presented its own difficulties. Editor Michael Walsh writes in Butler’s Lives of the Saints Fr. Knick and Sandie Knickerbocker that four of the men were married and had to make provision for their families. Eventually, they all gathered at a dilapidat- ed farmhouse, La Carmarzia, outside Florence where they Lent as the family's spring training intended to live in extreme mortification and penance. In May 1234, Mary again appeared to them and directed By Fr. Knick and Sandie Knickerbocker tell her that if the game were tied at the end of them to Mt. Senario where they built a simple church and nine innings, extra innings would be played until lived as hermits for several years. Eventually they adopted a By the fortuitous design of God's providence, one of the teams won. I certainly did not tell her black habit and modeled their congregation after the rule of February 14, Ash Wednesday, is not only the that a perfect baseball game could last forever! As St. Augustine and the Dominicans. They were known as the beginning of Lent but also the beginning of base- Catholics, the spring training of Lent prepares us Servants of Mary, or Servites, in 1240. They accepted others ball spring training! George Weigel, the biogra- to live forever in heaven. pher of Pope St. John Paul II, Second, baseball is a team sport, with individ- into the community and became friars, rather than monks, liv- in an article written in First ual achievement subordinated to the good of the ing in towns and not monasteries. Things (June, 2016) says that team. It is true that there are endless statistics kept In 1253, the order spread throughout Italy and into other "Baseball is by far the most on each player's performance, but the excellence parts of Europe. Rev. Clifford Stevens writes in The One Year Catholic of the sports on of the individual player must be woven into the Book of Saints that the friars modified their strict monastic which we lavish such atten- performance of the team. No team wants to have lifestyle and eventually became more like mendicant friars. tion and passion." The a player who is playing primarily for himself. In They were one of five original Catholic mendicant orders. Catholic essence of baseball baseball, the individual player learns to lose him- Their objectives were the sanctification of their members, can be seen as we look at self to find himself (See Mk 8:35 and parallels). preaching the Gospel, and encouraging devotion to the ways in which spring train- In Catholic family life, we extol the achievements Mother of God. ing teaches us about the dis- of individual members of the family, but those All of the original band were ordained except Alexis Fr. Knick and Sandie ciplines we can undertake in achievements must be subordinated to the life of Falconieri. John Delaney writes in the Dictionary of Saints Knickerbocker our Catholic families during the family. There is no better time of year than that Falconieri felt he was not worthy enough and devoted Lent. Lent for family members to adopt personal disci- himself to the material needs of the community. And it hap- First, a baseball game has no time limit. plines in coordination with the family as a whole. Unlike football, basketball, and soccer there is no We can ask ourselves, "What family disciplines pened that he was the only one of the seven still alive when clock to determine the length of a game. The can we adopt during our Lenten spring training the order was approved by Pope Benedict XI in 1304. Season of Lent may last a certain number of days, that will bring us together as a family?" For The principal devotion fostered by the friars was that of but the discipline of Lent is preparing us for eter- example, a family can attend Mass together, go to the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin. Guiley writes that nal life. Moreover, the Season of Lent will come Confession, have a meal together every evening, they gave the Church the Feast of the Seven Sorrows of the around again next year, and the penitential aspect pray the Rosary or some other family devotional Blessed Virgin Mary and made the novena of the Sorrowful of Lent is always present, to a greater of lesser practice daily, do volunteer work in the parish, Mother a popular devotion. degree depending on the time of the Church Year, visit family members or parishioners who are The original band of seven was canonized as the Seven in the liturgy of every Mass. I remember sitting in homebound or in nursing homes, and extend hos- Holy Founders of the Servite Order by Pope Leo XIII in the right field bleachers in Minute Maid Park in pitality to people in the parish who might live 1888. Their February 17 feast day is the date of the death of Houston watching the Astros play the Texas alone and to the parish priest, inviting them to Alexis Falconieri. Today, the order includes friars (priests and Rangers. In front of us was a church youth group share a meal. brothers), contemplative nuns, active sisters and lay groups. of about thirty boys and girls. Some of them Third, in baseball a really good hitter succeeds The Servites arrived in the United States in about 1852 seemed somewhat interested in the game, while only three out of ten times. A player whose bat- when Fr. Antoninus Grudner began working among the most of them were more interested in each other. ting average is consistently .300 is sought after by In the bottom of the seventh inning, one of the many teams. If that hitter were discouraged by German speaking Catholics in New York City and then in girls turned around and asked, "How much longer making an out seven out of ten times, he would Pennsylvania. The basilica of Our Lady of Sorrows in is this game going to last?" I replied that I hoped spread that discouragement among his teammates. Chicago is their American mother house. this inning would last a long time since the Astros In baseball, one must learn the virtue of persever- had two men on base and nobody out. She looked Mary Lou Gibson writes about the saints for the West very disappointed, and I did not have the heart to (Please see KNICKERBOCKERS/20) Texas Angelus from her home in Austin. The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 9 National Marriage Week: Promoting strong marriages with ‘The Choice Wine’ By David Erickson team couples and a priest. The experience is couple to a Superabundant Marriage places authentic marital St. Joseph Parish, San Angelo focused, and they write and share as a couple on the happiness within every couple’s reach. By opening to various topics. Many engaged couples say it is a life- couples the interior life of the Holy Family at Nazareth, The week of Feb. 7–14 is National Marriage Week. changing experience. The Choice Wine helps couples to experience a fore- It is a special week to promote the importance of mar- In our faith, we understand the meaning of the taste of Paradise, in their marriage and family.” The riage and an opportunity to celebrate sacramental mar- phrase “a wedding is a day, a marriage is a lifetime.” meetings are held in the home of the facilitating mar- riage in our faith. As Pope St. John Paul II once stated Besides marriage preparation, we also need to ensure ried couple for a small number of couples, or can be in a homily, “As the family goes, so goes the nation, effective marriage enhancement programs are in place held in the parish hall for a larger number of couples. and so goes the whole world in which we live.” The to serve those couples who have effectively prepared The program concludes with the couples renewing their foundation of a healthy and spiritual family is a sacra- for marriage, but now need help to keep their marriages sacramental vows of matrimony, along with a nice din- mental marriage. A strong marriage in the Catholic faith strong and spiritual. There are a couple of programs ner afterward. The event reminds the couples of the takes three: the husband and the wife, with God at the that have started in the diocese that can help fill this Wedding Feast at Cana and the first miracle of Jesus. center. need for continued growth in a marriage. One of these The Choice Wine program is based on this miracle, and National Marriage Week reminds us of the impor- programs is called “Faith and Nourishment for seeks to bring benefits to participants’ marriages and tance of preparing couples for marriage in the Church. Newlyweds,” which recently started in San Angelo at family lives. It is a powerful program and the couples This is done through various effective diocesan-sup- Holy Angels Parish. Couples meet regularly to nourish have attested to the ideal marriage enrichment it has ported programs. “Sponsor Couples” is one program their marriage and their faith. provided them. See http://paradisusdei.org/the-choice- where trained, experienced married couples meet with The other marriage enrichment program is called wine/ for more information. engaged couples in their home over a period of weeks. “The Choice Wine.” This nine week long program is In today’s society, our faith needs more than ever They follow a standardized curriculum. The other designed to take married couples and walk them good marriage enrichment programs that will strength- diocesan-sponsored program is “Catholic Engaged through the 7 Steps to a Superabundant Marriage. The en sacramental marriages. The family is the lifeblood of Encounter.” Engaged Encounter is a weekend retreat basis of the Choice Wine program is described on the the parish, and the best way to ensure strong families is where engaged couples focus on their preparation for a program’s website: “integrating the latest findings from to ensure strong, faithful, sacramental marriages with sacramental marriage in the Church. The couples hear modern science with the timeless teaching of the faith God at the center. May God bless you and strengthen talks on many different topics presented by trained and the wisdom of the saints, The Choice Wine: 7 Steps your marriage and family. Bishop Emeritus Pfeifer to offer Mass for the sick in San Antonio By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI on December 7, 1941 — Pearl Harbor Bishop Emeritus Day. So, this holy place provides a Diocese of San Angelo beautiful setting for the healing Mass that I will celebrate for hundreds of I have been invited, as I was last people on the World Day of Prayer for year, by the Oblate priests in charge of the Sick on Feb. 11, 2018. During the the beautiful Our Lady of Lourdes - Mass, Reconciliation will be celebrated Tepeyac Grotto in San Antonio, to cele- by several priests, and several priests brate a special healing Mass for the sick will assist me with the anointing of the and afflicted on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018. Sacrament of the Sick. Feb. 11 is the annual day that our recent One of my constant ministries in the popes, including Pope Francis, have San Antonio area, as it was in the designated as a World Day of Prayer for Diocese of San Angelo, is reaching out the Sick. In proclaiming this beautiful to the sick and afflicted, who suffer World Day of Prayer for the Sick, Pope from many physical, psychological, Francis gave us the theme for this emotional and spiritual afflictions. The year’s Day from the words that the Grotto is one of my special places of dying Jesus spoke from the cross to His prayer for Mass and Adoration and mother and to John: “Woman behold helping with other ministries. During your Son … Son behold your Mother.” my years in San Angelo, I always had a In our suffering and sickness Jesus healing Mass for the Sick on the World gives us His own Mother as our Day of Prayer for the Sick. I always Mother, who tenderly and loving wants encouraged on this special day for the to help us, her children, brothers and priests of the diocese to have special sisters of Christ, in our needs, our sor- healing Masses in their local parishes. row and sickness. The beautiful Lady As we reflect on the life of Christ, of Lourdes Grotto, staffed by the we see that He spent much of his time Oblates of Mary Immaculate, is one of healing the sick of various diseases and the special holy places of healing for sickness and driving out the demonic people who suffer from many different spirits that afflicted many people, as types of illnesses, so the Grotto is an still happens today. Caring for the sick, ideal place for this annual Mass of heal- praying and supporting those who assist ing for the sick. Thousands of people them is one of the principle ministries come each week to the Grotto for of the bishop, priests and deacons. And Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, thank God, we have always had in our celebration of Mass, to receive the diocese hundreds of generous lay vol- Sacrament of Reconciliation and for unteers who assist us with this primary healing and other services. ministry – visiting hospitals, rest homes The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and the home bound, praying for the in San Antonio is named after the sick and serving as ministers of world-famous Grotto of Our Lady of Communion. Lourdes in France where Mary As we pray for the sick on this spe- appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. As a cial Day of Prayer, we remember that at sign of who she was and to show her one time or another we all are sick and ongoing motherly loving care, Mary left need spiritual, sacramental and physical a stream of healing water that has care. May all of our people join in brought healing, comfort and God’s prayer for the sick and afflicted on the love to millions of people. The Lourdes World Day of Prayer for the Sick and Grotto in San Antonio, an exact replica may many, many more people join in of the Grotto in France, was dedicated reaching out to the sick and afflicted. Page 10 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus Modern-day ‘Andrews’ to invite men to discover more about the priesthood The Angelus of the diocese and learn more about the ministerial priesthood. Everybody has a purpose in life, even Bishop Sis notes that accepting an if it sometimes feels like it’s more com- invitation to the dinner does not obligate mon to not know what that purpose is. A an attendee to anything. “It is simply an suggestion from another person might be opportunity to learn a little more about what it takes to realize that purpose; the priesthood and the seminary,” he says. sometimes it takes someone who has “Even if the young man never seeks to already answered God’s call in a particu- enter the seminary, at least he has learned lar way to see the qualities necessary in something about our Catholic faith.” another for them to answer a similar call. While this is the first Project Andrew This is the idea behind a Project Dinner for our diocese, the idea itself is Andrew Dinner. not new. “This sort of activity has already The dinners, which encourage priests been carried out in other dioceses for a to invite those they feel may have the number of years,” says the bishop, but the qualities to be a good priest to come and diocesan vocation leadership feel that learn more about the priesthood, take now is a good time to try one here. their name from the disciple Andrew, who Bishop Sis notes that he believes “there brought his brother Simon to meet Jesus. are many young men in the Diocese of The Diocese of San Angelo will have San Angelo who would make wonderful its first Project Andrew Dinner on Feb. 8 priests. They just need the opportunity to at St. Stephen Parish in Midland. Bishop learn more about it and how to discern it Michael Sis will host the event, sponsored well.” by the diocesan Office of Vocations. The If you would like more information evening will include dinner, presentations about the seminary or are contemplating a Father Patrick Akpanobong, left, and Bishop Michael Sis tour one of the buildings on the priesthood, and the opportunity for call to the priesthood, contact Father located on a block of land that was recently acquired by San Miguel Arcangel the high school- and college-aged men Michael Rodriguez at 325-651-7500 or Parish in Midland. (photo by Alan Torre / aptorre.com) invited to get to know some of the priests [email protected].

The seminarians of the diocese, seen here in a group shot at Christ the King Retreat Center. Back row, from left: Mike Elsner, David Garcia, Ryan Ramirez, Kevin Lenius, Francisco Camacho, and Dcn. Reggie Odima. Front row: Dcn. Freddy Perez, Mauricio Romero, Upton Sewell, and Jose Navarrete. (photo by William Scherz, Scherz Studio) The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 11 Page 12 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 13 Page 14 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus Vatican Sharing 'fake news' makes one an accomplice in evil, pope says By Cindy Wooden who teach young people how to read of demonizing them and fomenting Catholic News Service and question the news and the infor- conflict." mation they see presented on social In the modern world, with the rapid VATICAN CITY — People have a media. He encouraged efforts to devel- and viral spread of news and informa- responsibility to check the source of op regulations to counter fake news tion -- both real and fake -- lives and what they share on social media to and he praised tech and media compa- souls are at stake, he said, because the ensure it is not "fake news" designed nies for trying to improve ways to ver- "father of lies" is the devil. to further prejudices or increase fear, ify "the personal identities concealed True discernment, the pope said, Pope Francis said. behind millions of digital profiles." means examining information and Fake news grabs people's attention But, he insisted, individuals always keeping what promotes communion "by appealing to stereotypes and com- will have the final responsibility for and goodness, while rejecting whatev- mon social prejudices, and exploiting discerning what is real news and what er "tends to isolate, divide, and instantaneous emotions like anxiety, is helpful to share on social media. oppose." contempt, anger and frustration," Pope "We need to unmask what could be "We can recognize the truth of Francis wrote in his message for World called the 'snake tactics' used by those statements from their fruits: whether Communications Day 2018. who disguise themselves in order to they provoke quarrels, foment divi- The message is a reflection on the strike at any time and place" like the sion, encourage resignation; or, on the theme, "'The truth will set you free.' serpent in the Garden of Eden did. other hand, they promote informed and Fake news and journalism for peace." The snake's power grows as people mature reflection leading to construc- World Communications Day will be limit their sources of information to tive dialogue and fruitful results," celebrated May 13 at the Vatican and one outlet, especially if that outlet is a Pope Francis wrote. in most dioceses. The papal message social media platform whose algo- Journalists, he said, have a special was released at the Vatican Jan. 24, the rithms are based on providing users responsibility in the modern world feast of St. Francis de Sales, patron with more information like they have amid the media "feeding frenzies and saint of journalists. just read, the pope said. the mad rush for a scoop." Fake news is so effective, he said, "Disinformation thus thrives on the Pope Francis asked media profes- because it mimics real news but uses absence of healthy confrontation with sions to promote "a journalism of "non-existent or distorted data" to other sources of information that could peace," which does not mean ignoring deceive and manipulate. effectively challenge prejudices and problems or being saccharine. It means The first to employ the fake-news generate constructive dialogue," he "a journalism that is truthful and tactic was the serpent in the Garden of wrote. opposed to falsehoods, rhetorical slo- Eden who convinced Eve she would People who repost or retweet such gans and sensational headlines." not die by eating the fruit of the for- false information, the pope said, A journalism of peace is at the bidden tree, he said. The Bible story become "unwilling accomplices in service of all people, "especially those shows that "there is no such thing as spreading biased and baseless ideas." -- and they are the majority in our harmless disinformation; on the con- One way to know if something world -- who have no voice," he said. trary, trusting in falsehood can have should be checked and not be shared, It is "a journalism committed to point- dire consequences." he said, is if it "discredits others, pre- ing out alternatives to the escalation of Pope Francis praised educators senting them as enemies, to the point shouting matches and verbal violence." Compartir 'noticias falsas' es ser cómplice del mal, dice el papa Por Cindy Wooden para la fiesta de San Francisco de Sales, era de verificar "las identidades person- Catholic News Service patrono de los periodistas. ales que se esconden detrás de millones Noticias falsas son efectivas porque de perfiles digitales". CIUDAD DEL VATICANO — La imitan noticias verdaderas pero usan Pero, insistió, que el público siempre gente tiene la responsabilidad de veri- "datos inexistentes o distorsionados" tendrá la responsabilidad final de dis- ficar la fuente de lo que comparten en para engañar y manipular, dijo el papa. cernir cuales son noticias verdaderas y las redes sociales para asegurarse de que La primera en emplear la táctica de qué es útil compartir en las redes no se trate de "noticias falsas" diseñadas las noticias falsas fue la serpiente en el sociales. para fomentar prejuicios o aumentar el Jardín del Edén que convenció a Eva de Dijo que "se ha de desenmascarar la temor, dijo el papa Francisco. que no moriría si comía de la fruta del que se podría definir como la 'lógica de Las noticias falsas captan la atención árbol prohibido, dijo el papa. La historia la serpiente', capaz de camuflarse en de las personas "poniendo el acento en bíblica muestra que "ninguna desinfor- todas partes y morder". estereotipos y prejuicios extendidos den- mación es inocua; por el contrario, fiarse El poder de la serpiente crece a tro de un tejido social, y se apoyan en de lo que es falso produce consecuencias medida que las personas limitan sus emociones fáciles de suscitar, como el nefastas. Incluso una distorsión de la fuentes de información y solo reciben ansia, el desprecio, la rabia y la frus- verdad aparentemente leve puede tener noticias de un solo lugar, y en ese lugar, tración", escribió el papa Francisco en efectos peligrosos". donde algoritmos dan a los usuarios más su mensaje para la 52 Jornada Mundial El papa Francisco agradeció a maes- información parecida, leen más informa- de las Comunicaciones. tros que les enseñan a los jóvenes cómo ción como la que acaban de leer, dijo el El mensaje es una reflexión sobre el leer y cuestionar las noticias y la infor- papa. tema, "La verdad os hará libres. Fake mación que ven presentada en las redes "El resultado de esta lógica de la news y periodismo de paz". La Jornada sociales. Apoyó esfuerzos para desarrol- desinformación es que, en lugar de Mundial de las Comunicaciones se cele- lar regulaciones para contrarrestar las realizar una sana comparación con otras brará el 13 de mayo en el Vaticano y en noticias falsas y agradeció a compañías fuentes de información, lo que podría la mayoría de las diócesis. El mensaje tecnológicas y de comunicaciones y sus del Vaticano fue lanzado el 24 de enero esfuerzos para tratar de mejorar la man- (Mira PAPA/20) The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 15 Nation Encuentro delegates urged to bring others to 'new encounter' with Christ By Catholic News Service also emphasized "this encuentro is not ple in need. and that was performed by children just about Latinos." "The 'V Encuentro' is a wake-up call from St. Odilia Parish to show how peo- LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles "It is about the whole church coming for all Catholics, but especially our ple can overcome their fear of sharing Archbishop Jose H. Gomez urged the together -- men and women, black and Hispanic/Latino communities to become God's love with others. crowd at the archdiocesan "V white, Latinos, Africans, Asians, agents of renewal for church and socie- On Jan. 29, the U.S. Catholic Encuentro" Europeans, the peoples of Oceania, all ty," said Jesuit Father Allan Figueroa Conference in Washington announced Jan. 27 to bring "the people of our times the beautiful diversity that makes up the Deck, a theologian from Loyola that delegate registration for the Fifth to a new encounter with Jesus Christ family of God here in Los Angeles and Marymount University, who facilitated National Encuentro opens Feb. 20. In and the mercy and love of God." throughout the United States," he said. the reflection session titled "Take the attendance will be 3,000 He addressed more than 1,000 "We are all called to live as children of Initiative." Hispanic/Latino ministry leaders/dele- Catholic lay leaders, clergy and reli- God and to proclaim Christ as mission- "For 50 years, the encuentro process- gates from dioceses, ecclesial move- gious from 52 parishes in all regions of ary disciples." es have contributed a strong pastoral and ments, schools, universities and Catholic the tri-county Archdiocese of Los He added, "The disciples at Emmaus social justice agenda to the church in the organizations from across the country. Angeles gathered at the Pasadena set out at once to tell everyone of their United States, one that resonates per- The delegates will represent more Convention Center. encounter with Jesus Christ. This is our fectly with Pope Francis' call for pas- than165 dioceses; they are being select- Diocesan-level encuentros and task now. This is the call of this Fifth toral conversion and missionary disci- ed from among the nearly 250,000 peo- regional encuentros are taking place (National) Encuentro." pleship," he said. ple participating in the local process around the country as part of a process Angelus News, the archdiocesan To date, more than 3,000 participants over the past year. Over 100 bishops are of reflection and action leading up to the news outlet, reported that throughout have finished the "V Encuentro" process expected to lead diocesan delegations. U.S. Catholic Church's Fifth National 2017, the archdiocesan chapter of "V at 65 parishes and ministries of the The national encuentro "is the sum- Encuentro, or "V Encuentro," to be held Encuentro" sponsored consultation and Archdiocese of Los Angeles. mit experience" that comes at the mid- Sept. 20-23 in Grapevine, Texas. evangelization workshops with parish The training workshops have includ- point of a four-year process, said (Editor’s note: the diocesan leaders throughout the Los Angeles ed themes such as family ministry in Alejandro Aguilera-Titus, the USCCB's encuentro for the Diocese of San Archdiocese. Attendees at these sessions modern times, lifelong faith formation, national coordinator for the "V Angelo took place Dec. 7, 2017, at Our reflected on the encuentro process and accompanying the immigrant, current Encuentro." Lady of Guadalupe Parish in discerned ways of becoming missionary and emerging lay leadership formation, "One of the most important out- Midland. The Region X Encuentro disciples to strengthen the entire community outreach to the peripheries, comes of the (national) 'V Encuentro' is will be April 13-15 in San Antonio.) Catholic Church by serving all its mem- access to education, priestly and reli- the discernment of priorities and recom- "Let us walk behind Jesus and take bers, especially the underserved. gious vocations and young adult dis- mendations that will guide Hispanic up our cross -- following him and to The Jan. 27 gathering offered an cernment, and models and methods of ministry in the United States for the next bringing the people of our times to a opportunity for archdiocesan delegates evangelization. 10 to 15 years," he said in a statement. new encounter with Jesus Christ and the to reconvene and continue the consulta- "In its spirituality, theological vision - - - mercy and love of God," Archbishop tion process until the April regional and commitment to engagement with Editor's Note: More details Gomez told the crowd at the convention gathering in Visalia, California, and the others, especially those on the margins, regarding the Fifth National center. "V Encuentro" in Grapevine. the 'V Encuentro' calls the entire church Encuentro are available at www.ven- "Let us reach out especially to those "The vision of 'V Encuentro' is to to proclaim the Gospel with creativity cuentro.org. This is an invitation-only who are on the "peripheries" -- the become more aware of God's love in our and energy suitable for meeting the event for diocesan delegates and other homeless and the immigrant, the sick lives and to share it with others, espe- immense challenges of today's world," participants 18 years and older. and the suffering, the child waiting to be cially those most in need," Ernesto said Father Figueroa Deck. Individuals will not be able to register born, the prisoner hoping for a second Vega, coordinator of the archdiocesan Cecilia Gonzalez-Andrieu, a Loyola separately. chance," he continued. "Let us walk encuentro, told Angelus News. Marymount University theology profes- - - - together with Jesus and bring our nation During the day, participants shared sor, led a reflection session on the Contributing to this story was the and our world -- to the new encounter testimonials of healing and conversion importance of "accompaniment" in staff of Angelus News, the online news with Jesus Christ." based on opportunities they have had being a missionary disciple. The session outlet of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. In his remarks, Archbishop Gomez during encuentro trainings to serve peo- was based on a skit that she prepared

Parishioners from the Diocese of San Angelo gather out- side the Texas capi- tol building during the Texas Rally for Life in Austin, Jan. 27. (courtesy photo)

More photos from the event can be found on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ DioceseofSanAngelo Page 16 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus Catholic Voices Can you lose your vocation by missing the chance? By Fr. Ron Rolheiser married person, or a single person in the being led into Damascus and instructed matter how many times you disregard or world, and if you didn’t accept that, by an elder as to his vocation; Moses disobey its command, the voice never Recently I received a letter from a once you knew your calling, then you being called to do a task because he saw expresses impatience, yells at you, or man who shared that he was still deeply had “missed” or “lost” your vocation the suffering of the people; and all of us gives up on you. It simply says haunted by a story he’d heard in grade- and the consequence would an abiding being challenged to use our talents or be “Recalculating.” Sooner or later, no mat- school many years before. One of his sadness and even the danger of missing stripped of them. We’re all called to ter how many times you disregard it, it religion teachers had heaven. Such were the vocation stories mission and so each of us has a voca- gets you home. read them a story about a of my youth, and, truth be told, I went to tion. We’re not morally free to live our Delightful as is that image, it’s still priest who went to visit a the seminary to become a priest with lives simply for ourselves. but a very weak analogy in terms of childhood friend. While that lingering as a shadow in my mind. But God doesn’t give us just one understanding God’s patience and for- staying with his friend, But it was only a shadow. I didn’t enter chance which if we miss it or turn down giveness. None of us should be haunted, the priest noticed that, religious life and priesthood out of fear, will leave us sad forever. No. God opens long-term, by sadness and fear because while his friend was though some moral fears did play a part a new door every time we close one. we feel that we’ve missed our vocation, cheerful and affable in it, as they should. Fear can also be a God gives us 77x7 chances, and more unless we are living a selfish life. enough, he seemed to be healthy thing. after that, if needed. The question of Selflessness rather than selfishness, a harboring some deep, But it can also be unhealthy. It’s not vocation is not so much a question of life in pursuit of service rather than a residual sadness. When Rolheiser healthy to understand both God and your guessing right (What very specifically life in pursuit of comfort, not guessing he asked his friend about it his friend vocation in terms that can have you was I predestined for?) but rather a correctly, constitutes one’s vocation. confessed that he “had lost his salva- missing out on happiness and salvation question of giving oneself over in faith Our Christian vocation is to make what tion” because he had felt a call to priest- on the basis of one singular choice made and love to the situation that we’ve cho- we are in fact living – married, priest, hood when he was young but had chosen while you are still young. God doesn’t sen (or which more often than not has religious, single in the world – a life of instead to marry. Now, he felt, there was work like that. by circumstance chosen us). We should selflessness and service to others. no existential redemption from that. He It’s true that we are called by God to not live in unhealthy fear about this. Happiness and salvation are contingent had had a vocation and lost it and, with a vocation which we are meant to dis- God continues to love us and desire our upon that, not upon guessing correctly. that, also lost for good his chance at cern through conscience, through com- happiness, even when we don’t always happiness. Though happily enough mar- munity, through circumstance, and follow to where we are ideally called. - - - ried, he felt that he would bear forever through the talents that we’ve been Recently I heard a homily in a the stigma of having been being unfaith- given. For a Christian, existence does church in which the priest compared Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, theolo- ful in not accepting his God-given voca- not precede essence. We’re born with a God to a GPS, a Global Positioning gian, teacher, and award-winning tion. purpose, with a mission in life. There System, that is, that computerized author, is President of the Oblate School I was raised on stories like that. are many clear texts in scripture on this: instrument, complete with human voice, of Theology in San Antonio, TX. He can They were part of the Catholicism of my Jesus, praying for entire nights to know that countless people have today in their be contacted through his website youth. We were taught to believe that his Father’s will; Peter conscripted on a cars and which gives them ongoing www.ronrolheiser.com. Now on God marked out a certain vocation for rock to be led by a belt that will take instructions on how to get to their desti- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ronrol- you, that is, to be a priest, a sister, a him where he would rather not go; Paul nation. One of its features is this: No heiser The surprising message of Downsizing By Most Reverend Robert Barron and journalists. We then flash forward sev- of himself. Carrying a Bible and attending the number of births way below replace- Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles eral years to discover that downsizing has enthusiastic religious services, Ngoc is ment level in England, France, Holland, become a popular trend, though the major- unembarrassedly a Christian, and it is and Germany. This has been prompted, of When I saw the trailer for Alexander ity of people undergo the procedure for unmistakable that her faith informs her course, by a number of factors, but cer- Payne’s new film, Downsizing, I thought financial rather than piously environmental dedication to those in need. tainly one of them is a conviction that the movie would be a light-hearted farce, reasons. It appears that the dollar goes By an odd plot twist (I won’t bore you human beings are just bad for the planet, relying principally on much further when you have tiny clothes, with the details), Paul and Ngoc travel to using up too many resources, raping the visual gags. In point your nutritional needs are those of a Norway to commune with Dr. Jorgen environment, etc. Wouldn’t it be best, of fact, the jokes mouse, and you live in a doll house. Asbjørnsen, the scientist who developed many seem to think, if the human race just based on the contrast At this point, we meet Paul Safranek the downsizing technology, and the origi- shrank down and went away? Downsizing between regular-size (played by a rather pudgy-looking Matt nal commune of the small, who are living gives dramatic expression to this convic- people and their five- Damon) and his wife Audrey (Kristen like a band of hippies along the shores of a tion and, not so subtly, makes fun of it. I inch tall counterparts Wiig in a surprisingly sober turn), who picturesque fjord. They soon discover that laughed out loud when, at the climactic are surprisingly rare. have decided to take the plunge. But on this community, convinced that environ- moment of Paul’s escape, the camera pulls Most of the film the fateful day, Paul goes through with it, mental pollution will render the surface of back and reveals the "blowing" of the door deals with events while Audrey chickens out, leaving Paul the earth uninhabitable, has actually as a tiny pebble falling about two inches to within the world of Bishop Barron stranded in the land of the tiny. Compelled resolved to retreat to a subterranean world the ground. Talk about going out, not with the downsized—so by his wife’s treachery to divorce, Paul that they have constructed. Beguiled by a bang, but with a whimper. everything seems more or less normal. finds himself out of his mansion and stuck their romanticism and dedication, Paul Contrasted to this despairing retreat is And when I took in the opening scenes, in a nowhere-job and a small apartment. decides to go with the community and he the vibrant compassion exemplified by and heard a lot of talk about protecting the Just as he hits bottom (literally lying in a leaves the tearful Ngoc behind. But then, Ngoc. She too sees the world as a painful environment and the dangers of overpopu- stupor on the floor of a friend’s apartment just as the entrance to the tunnel is about place, but her resolution is not to retreat lation, I thought that Downsizing would be after a night of debauchery), he spies to be blown permanently shut, Paul races but to address the pain through love. And a propaganda piece for left-wing causes. Ngoc Lan Tran (wonderfully incarnated by out and embraces his beloved. The two of it cannot be accidental that the Vietnamese Here I was surprised again, for the film Hong Chau), a noble Vietnamese activist them then return to the States and Paul woman’s Christian faith is clearly empha- amounts, I will argue, to a not-so-subtle who had been forcibly downsized by her gives himself over to Ngoc’s work of serv- sized, while no one on the European side critique of that ideology. government and who now does menial ice for the suffering poor. exhibits the slightest interest in religion. In Downsizing opens in a Norwegian lab labor, cleaning the homes of the wealthy. A film of social commentary? You bet, point of fact, it is precisely religious faith where a group of scientists are testing an Despite the loss of a leg, Ngoc has devot- but not the social commentary I was that will awaken courage and compassion, experimental technique to reduce animals ed herself, in her spare time, to the care of expecting. Is there a better symbol for the and it is precisely the lack of faith that in size. It soon becomes clear that the pur- an army of the underclass of the small, downsizing that is currently happening in conduces, by a short road, to spiritual and pose of these endeavors is to apply the who live in a sprawling slum. When she Europe than the shrinking and disappear- psychological exhaustion—both in the technology to human beings. The most discovers that Paul has some basic med- ance of that original colony of the small? individual and in a culture. dramatic scene in the film is the moment ical training, she presses him into service, For the past roughly fifty years, the West I applaud Downsizing for making this when the team presents a five-inch person bringing him to suffering person after suf- in general, but Europe in particular, has contrast clear. to a lecture hall of astounded researchers fering person, compelling him to come out been experiencing a population implosion, The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 17 Lenten listening: What do you hear? By Carolyn Woo that is on everywhere. made in his image. Catholic News Service Lent is a gift from the church for us to tune into Lent probes our ways that can be small, suffocating what God is trying to tell us. and foolish in light of the real prize. It speaks with a There is an ongoing debate in our home on how well When I was young, I associated Lent with a much certain urgency to not waste time, to not waste our lives. my husband can hear. He doesn't always catch the con- deserved "scold" with all the readings and homilies Most precious for me, Lent offers hope in that my versation, and particularly so in noisy venues. pointing out our faults and follies. It filled me with repentance does not all depend on me, but on God's Sometimes I will loudly convey a message from the bot- dread and unshakeable weariness of my own imperfec- grace that is there for our asking. Lent invites us to ask. tom of the stairs to his office upstairs. tions and vanities. Learning from my husband, perhaps the first step in (I guess that would be yelling, but it is In time, my thinking evolved and now I approach listening to God is to say, "I can't hear." The second step such an unattractive image!) Lent as a time of warning -- much like road signs that is to assert and affirm our desire to hear, and to actively Almost always, David will work spell out "Danger," "Do Not Trespass," "Dead End," place ourselves in the presence of God. hard to get the message: In a crowd, "Slow," "Mind the Gap" or "Exit." All these messages For these 40 days of Lent, we can hang a "reserve" he will cup one ear and lean toward are meant to alert us, calling for needed behavior before sign on certain moments of the day so we can listen to the speaker; at home he will come into we get into deep trouble. God through Scripture, the needs of another person and the room where I am; and frequently The prodigal son found great mercy and a much bet- our hearts. he asks for repetitions. ter life when he returned to his father. But he had to take One of my Lenten practices is to keep a journal of One day watching Dave, it hit me note, acknowledge his mistakes and reverse direction. my reflections from the daily readings and meditations: that Lent is a time to practice our hear- Woo Lent invites us to do the same. They seldom exceed five sentences. During the Easter ing. For many of us, our spiritual listen- The ultimate goal of Lenten exercises is not to avoid triduum, I review these and somehow the act feels like a ing skills are probably not much better than my hus- punishment, but to end up in that kingdom in which the conversation. band's physical hearing. There is so much noise around prodigal son made his home. Yes, Lent reminds us of Look, we are all a bit lost. But Jesus reassured us in us: news and messages demanding our attention, music our faults, but it does not end there. Such examination John 10:27, "My sheep hear my voice; I know them, through earbuds to facilitate our escape to some other helps us get out of the ruts that prevent us from living and they follow me." Lent is that time to turn our ears, world that we would rather be in, and background TV our full potential as children of God: gifted, loved and minds and hearts to the shepherd's beckoning. Caring for 'the other America' in the heartland By Greg Erlandson (Republican) and blue (Democrat) states, Dreamers brought to this country and rural America, but they are more connect- Catholic News Service one immediately sees the huge scarlet growing up in their parishes, and they ed to their faith and parish life than those swath that included the South, Midwest know also the church's strong biblical anywhere else in the country," the report In the wake of Donald Trump's elec- and upper Midwest -- what is often dis- commitment to the poor and the stranger. concluded. tion as president, much has been made of missively referred to as flyover country. Yet I felt privileged to have experi- The heartland is ailing, however. It is the voters he attracted, usually identified Those journalists wanting to see what enced my Midwestern parish as well. losing jobs. Its young people are migrat- as white, male, small town and rural, makes this part of America tick clearly There were high levels of engagement ing to larger urban areas. Many of the working class. have a lot of ground to cover. and stewardship, a simple, heartfelt afflictions of the city fester also in the While such statisti- I grew up in California and now appreciation of community, a sincerity country. cal generalizations reside on the East Coast, but for many and generosity that helped me appreciate America's small towns have been bat- obscure the fact that years I lived in Indiana, one of those red the values and the spirit of the heartland. tered by the decline in families, with many who did not fit flyover states. Before the 2016 election, the Center divorce and cohabitation increasingly that stereotype also I've enjoyed the riotous ethnic and for Applied Research in the Apostolate, a common. It is beset by problems like opi- voted for him, it did racial diversity of the Washington area, Catholic social research organization, oid addiction. One pastor told me his attract a great deal of and the church here reflects this diversity. summarized its research about "town and church was experiencing almost a funeral attention to that "other My parish has a weekly Mass for country Catholics." It contrasted folks a week due to drug overdoses. America" that resides Nigerian Catholics, throbbing with differ- living in coastal states or major urban Catholics have deep roots in these between the crowded Erlandson ent rhythms, vivid colors and no concern areas with folks in noncoastal states and communities, and the church is uniquely coastal states and media that it all gets wrapped up in an hour. rural areas. positioned not only to serve the needs of centers. Nearby, a parish serving a large Hispanic CARA reported that Catholics living its faithful people there but also to give Books like Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. community is standing room only every in rural and small town, noncoastal com- voice to their suffering, as it does for the Vance became must-reads, and pundits Sunday. munities had higher rates of religious immigrant, the refugee, the city dweller. were making postelection resolutions to The needs of these communities are practice, higher rates of parish involve- The 2016 election may have caught get out of their media bubbles and visit great, and the church is keenly aware of ment, higher rates of financial support of political observers by surprise, but the that "other America" that so shocked them. It has sought to help immigrant their parish, higher rates of youth engage- church understands its call is to serve all them on Election Day. families and to protect their rights. The ment as well. the marginalized and the hurting, whatev- Looking at the electoral map of red bishops know personally young "There may be fewer in the pews in er their zip code.

Several former chairmen of St. Ann School’s annual Mardi Gras Gala, which raises money for the school’s endowment fund, gathered at a luncheon in their honor, Jan. 26, in Midland. The Mardi Gras Gala is celebrating its 25th anniver- sary. Front row, left to right: Patricia Ray, Karen Bertelson, Cindy Del Bosque and Judy Canon. Back row, left to right: Debbie Modawell, Monsignor Larry Droll, Allison Eyler, Sylvia Ochoa, Aileen Saenz, Britney Ramirez, Amanda Guebara, Melissa Lara, Bishop Michael Sis and Kari Rylander.

This year’s Mardi Gras Gala was held on Feb. 3. Page 18 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics The ecclesial imperative of educating To be or not to be – parsing Hispanic children in Catholic schools

By Hosffman Ospino side of the story. Perhaps the most important the implications of suicide Catholic News Service measures when highlighting the value and By Fr. Tad Pacholczyk whether we shouldn’t rather “bear impact of Catholic schools are "ecclesial." In those ills we have than fly to others Millions of Catholics in the United States other words, Catholic schools exist to be at In recent years we have witnessed that we know not of?” were educated in Catholic schools during the the service of the church's evangelizing mis- a growing tendency to promote sui- Among those who end up com- past two centuries. It is no secret that such sion. cide as a way of resolving end-stage mitting suicide, whether physician- education has yielded amazing Catholic schools are spaces where faith suffering. Physician-assisted suicide assisted or otherwise, many will face fruits for this particular faith and life engage in dialogue in explicit ways. is now legal in a extenuating circumstances including community and for the larger The spiritual dimension is the axis upon handful of states and severe depression or other forms of society. which the life of these institutions revolves. In a number of other extreme mental pain. In such cases, it One could highlight the Catholic schools, religion matters. jurisdictions are is clear that their moral responsibility impact of Catholic education in The vast majority of Euro-American considering laws to will be greatly diminished, as fear "worldly" measures such as Catholic priests, women religious and legalize the practice. and anguish constrict their ability to exposure to a holistic curricu- Catholic school teachers and administrators attended Catholic schools. So did most of the A few years ago on think and reason clearly. But this is lum, preparedness to attend U.S. Catholic theologians and pastoral leaders Nightline, Barbara not always the case, and some peo- and complete higher education, Ospino and even social mobility. I have met throughout my life. Walters interviewed ple, with clear mind and directed According to the National Catholic When I meet Catholic women and men an assisted suicide intention, do choose to end their Educational Association, 99 percent of stu- with awe-inspiring life commitments, clearly Pacholczyk lives, as appears to have been the advocate who dents from Catholic high schools graduate living the Gospel values at the service of God summed it up this case for Britney Maynard. She was and 85 percent of graduates go to a four-year and others, I often ask them whether they ever way: “We’re talking about what peo- the young woman in California who college. That is an impressive record. attended a Catholic school. The answer most ple want. There are people who, even in the early stages of her brain cancer The list of well-known social, political, of the time is yes. suffering horribly, want to live out carefully arranged and orchestrated economic, intellectual and artistic leaders who Just as these institutions have served well every second of their lives, and that’s her own physician-assisted suicide, attended Catholic schools is long. many generations of U.S. Catholics, with their right, of course, and they should establishing months in advance the By the middle of the 20th century, more remarkable effects upon church and society, do it. Others don’t want that. Others date and setting, who would be pres- than half of Catholic children, mostly Euro- they also need to serve well the next genera- want out!” ent in the room, what music would American, attended Catholic schools. Today, tion of Catholics in our country. Those favoring physician-assisted be playing as she did it, etc. Euro-American adult Catholics constitute one There are about 14.6 million school-age suicide argue that getting out of our Such a decision is always a of most educated bodies in our society. Catholic children in the U.S. Of these, 8 mil- final agony means essentially tragedy, and every life, even when Simply connect the dots. redeeming a “get out of jail free” compromised by disease or suffering, Yet, the "worldly" measures tell only one (Please see CHILDREN/22) card through committing suicide. At remains a great gift to be cared for. first glance, taking this step would When freely chosen, suicide is a indeed appear to end our troubles form of serious wrongdoing and is, La educación de los niños hispanos definitively. But what if this view of in the words of the Catechism of the things is dead wrong, and we don’t Catholic Church, “Gravely contrary en las escuelas católicas es una actually end up escaping our suffer- to the just love of self. It likewise ings? What if we, instead, end up in offends love of neighbor because it a new situation where our trials are unjustly breaks the ties of solidarity responsabilidad eclesial still present, and maybe even more with family, nation, and other human By Hosffman Ospino intense, on account of the willful societies to which we continue to valor y del impacto de las escuelas católicas decision we made to end our own have obligations.” It leaves behind Catholic News Service es la "eclesial". En otras palabras, las escuelas católicas existen para avanzar la misión evan- life? loved ones to contend with unre- Millones de católicos estadounidenses gelizadora de la iglesia. I was recently reminded of this solved guilt, shame, and pain. fueron educados en escuelas católicas durante Las escuelas católicas son espacios en serious flaw in the “suicide solution” While ending our life may seem los últimos dos siglos. No es un secreto el que donde constantemente la fe y la vida dialogan to offer an “escape valve” for the after watching a remarkable video dicha educación se refleje en frutos abun- de manera explícita. La dimensión espiritual adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy serious pressures and sufferings we dantes que han beneficiado a esta comunidad es el eje sobre el cual gira la vida de estas Hamlet, with Campbell Scott co- face, we do well to consider the real de fe al igual que al resto de la sociedad. instituciones. La religión juega un papel directing and starring in the title role. effects of this choice both in this life, Pudiéramos resaltar el impacto de la edu- importante en las escuelas católicas. Listening once again to Hamlet’s and in the life to come. In the next cación católica en términos "seculares". Por La gran mayoría de sacerdotes, religiosas timeless soliloquy “to be or not to life, a preceding act of suicide may ejemplo, estas instituciones ofrecen a los estu- y religiosos católicos euroamericanos estudi- be,” I was struck by how carefully deny us the very relief we were seek- diantes un currículo integral, les preparan con aron en instituciones educativas católicas. Lo Shakespeare addresses the vexing ing, and may, in fact, lead to harsher éxito para ir a la universidad e incluso facili- mismo la mayoría de educadores y admin- question of intense human suffering purification in a new situation of our tan la movilidad social. istradores de escuelas católicas. También es el and the perennial temptation to com- own making, or, heaven forbid, lead Según la Asociación Nacional de caso de la mayoría de teólogos y agentes pas- mit suicide. to a fate far worse than purgatory. Educación Católica, el 99 por ciento de los torales católicos que he conocido a lo largo de Hamlet muses about whether it is Our Lord and his Church care estudiantes en las escuelas secundarias católi- mi vida. better to put up with the bad things profoundly for those who commit cas se gradúan y el 85 por ciento de los grad- Cuando me encuentro con personas católi- we know about in this life than to suicide, and even though this act uados se matriculan en programas universitar- cas cuyas vidas son dignas de admiración gra- step into the strange new land of clearly involves grave matter, the ios de cuatro años. Es un record envidiable. cias a sus compromisos, viviendo los valores death's "undiscovered country," a Catechism reminds us that, “We La lista de líderes en el campo social, del Evangelio al servicio de Dios y de los country about which we know very should not despair of the eternal sal- político, financiero, intelectual y artístico que demás, usualmente les pregunto si alguna vez little, and from which no one returns. vation of persons who have taken estudiaron en escuelas católicas es larga. estudiaron en una escuela católica. La This leaves us, in Hamlet’s words, their own lives. By ways known to A mediados del siglo 20, más de la mitad respuesta por lo general es afirmativa. “puzzled” and in “dread of some- him alone, God can provide the de los niños católicos estadounidenses, en su Así como estas instituciones han servido thing after death.” He wonders aloud opportunity for salutary repentance. gran mayoría euroamericanos, estudiaban en satisfactoriamente a muchas generaciones de about the hidden purposes of suffer- The Church prays for persons who escuelas católicas. Hoy en día, los adultos católicos estadounidenses, con un impacto ing when he asks himself, “Whether have taken their own lives.” católicos euroamericanos constituyen uno de claro tanto a nivel eclesial como social, tam- 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer the Suicide affects us not only in the los grupos más educados en nuestra sociedad. bién necesitan servir satisfactoriamente a la slings and arrows of outrageous for- here and now, but has significant, La conexión es clara. siguiente generación de católicos en nuestro tune” than to “take arms against a sea even eternal, implications for the Sin embargo, las medidas "seculares" sólo país. of troubles, and by opposing, end journey to that “undiscovered coun- nos dicen una parte de la historia. Quizás la them.” He concludes by asking try” that awaits us. medida más importante cuando hablamos del (Mira OSPINO/22) The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 19 Catholic Voices s How can the church support people during the 'defining decade'? By Jonathan Lewis respond to the reality of emerging adulthood. The last The reality of delayed adulthood requires that parishes Catholic News Service parish touch point for most Catholics is confirmation realign priorities to invest in a lifelong ministry bridge around age 13, and for a small percentage, youth ministry from high school and college across the defining decade Meg Jay, author of The Defining Decade, claims that programs through age 18. The next sacramental touch of young adulthood. It is no longer sufficient to walk "our 20s are the defining decade of adulthood. Eighty per- point is marriage, with little to no pastoral outreach for the young people to the threshold of adult faith, but to accom- cent of life's most defining moments take place by about defining decade in between. pany them through it. age 35. ... Personality can change Young adults in this crucial period of life are searching Young adults today are navigating a defining decade of more during our 20s than at any other for belonging, identity and mission. Without mentors to life with great hopes, big questions and constant transi- decade in life. ... When it comes to teach them or a peer community to belong to, young tions. adult development, 30 is not the new adults often view the church as irrelevant and look outside What can parishes do? 20." of it for meaning. First, listen to the needs and interests of young adults Pope Francis has called a synod on When parents see that ministry does not exist for their through one-on-one conversations or listening sessions. "Young people, faith and vocational kids, they advocate, but when young adults don't find a Second, invite young adults to represent key leader- discernment" to discuss how the relatable community, they walk away quietly. The rapid ship areas of parish life. church can help young people live disaffiliation of young adult Catholics is a resounding Third, build friendship into all touch points of parish their faith "through a series of choices clamor that something has to change. life that continue beyond the celebration of the sacrament. that find expression in the states of One danger is that we default to what is most familiar Fourth, mentor a young person or young couple. life." In short, the synod wants to help Lewis or who is advocating the loudest. Too often writers and Everyone, no matter their age, can reach out and invest in young people live out their vocation to holiness as life- church leaders have made the mistake of calling the mentoring someone else. long adult Catholics by learning how to discern God's will upcoming synod a "synod on youth," when in reality, in Last, offer small groups as young adult or intergenera- in daily life. our American vernacular, it is more accurately a "synod tional formation. In the U.S., it is taking young people longer to get to on young adults." The Church has some of its own defining decades that "adult" stage of life. Growing up with "helicopter par- This is not to say that ministry with youth is not ahead of it. We would do well to turn our attention to ents," the 2008 financial crisis and skyrocketing college important; it is essential. The danger is when the priorities young adults in their own defining moments. debt means that for many young people, delaying adult- of parish life build a child-centric culture instead of a cul- - - - hood is less a choice and more the hand they were dealt. ture of adult formation, mentorship and family life. The Jonathan Lewis is executive director of evangelization, This requires a new pastoral approach to support this result is that when youth become young adults there is young adult ministry and chaplaincies for the Archdiocese population. often no peer community to help them grow and no older of Washington. He is a guest columnist for the Catholic Yet the Catholic Church in the U.S. has been slow to adult mentors to walk with them. News Service column "In Light of Faith." Where gladness and hunger meet By Effie Caldarola that offered help to women caught time handling someone else's urine. Cartoon Corner Catholic News Service in unexpected, and sometimes I could never be a medical profes- unwanted, pregnancies. I have sional -- I'm darn close to being a You may have heard this always felt that as Christians, our germaphobe. before: "The place to which God response to women experiencing I tried to subsume my interior calls you is the place where your this situation should be bountiful repugnance in my sense of the deep gladness and full of compassion, and that sacredness of the moment, but and the world's every woman should be treated finally I realized this wasn't work- deep hunger with respect. ing for me. Worse, I wasn't at my meet." This was in the days before best for those whom I hoped to That line is pregnancy tests were available at serve. from Frederick every drug store or supermarket, so Deep gladness was missing. So Buechner, an we provided free pregnancy test- I shifted my commitment and ordained ing. Just as with home tests today, became the author of the organiza- Presbyterian these required a urine sample. tion's monthly newsletter, some- minister, theolo- Caldarola Sometimes women would produce thing I enjoyed and for which I had gian and author. one in our office, or sometimes a wee bit of talent. I also produced Most of us, within the context they would come in with jam jars handwritten thank-you notes for of our busy lives, want to serve full of urine whose contents had every single donation we God, whether it's pursuing a whole splashed through and permeated received. new career or just finding a volun- the soggy paper bag they offered I loved this commitment. It teer role. But sometimes we get us. was, as the old saying goes, right bogged down in "what is God call- Taking the specimen, we would up my alley. ing me to?" and we stand still. run the test as we talked with the Often, we see a need, as when Maybe Buechner's quote is a women about their fears and hopes. the bulletin screams, "The faith for- good one to pray with during the Surprisingly, it was only with the mation program needs 20 more new year. advent of HIV in the 1980s that the teachers!" and we have a sense of Discovering the world's "deep organization had belatedly begun "have to." Sometimes taking on a hunger" isn't a challenge. Every using latex gloves. "have to" project works out. But day, the news bombards us with Sharing the result, either posi- sometimes, an interior battle rages the cry of the poor in this weary tive or negative, was a grace-filled and gladness is missing. world. We can all name organiza- moment of intimacy with another Questions to ponder in the new tions in our town that need help, woman. Reactions to either result year: What kind of service would and we all know our parish has might be happiness, fear, joy, relief bring me fulfillment and gladness? hosts of ministries needing assis- and copious tears. We needed to be What do I do well? When am I tance. fully present to a woman at this sharing at my best? What gets me We know where the hunger is. moment. excited to serve? Where will I be It's that "deep gladness" part that The problem: I wasn't. Oh, I felt wholly present to another? requires some prayer. the intense emotion and reacted Answer those, and then run, do Years ago, when I was first with compassion. But I'm really not walk, to make this commit- married, I volunteered at a center squeamish. Inevitably, I had a hard ment. Page 20 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus KNICKERBOCKERS (From 8) through the changing patterns of the day, and freedom helps determine how the which we can become reacquainted in and to be attentive to the needs of other game is played in each particular ball- Lent. We can learn again in a more pro- ance in the face of these odds. In Lent, family members. They have reinforced park. Likewise, in every Catholic family found way what is meant by Incarnation, family members can encourage one the truth that thoughts, words, and there is structure and freedom. Every Atonement, Resurrection, Ascension, another in the ups and downs of life, actions go together, and that learning to family has virtues that we are all High Priesthood, Parousia, Holy Trinity, especially when someone fails in his or surrender our thoughts to the Lord will required to learn to practice and habitu- Holy Spirit, Son of God, Word of God, her Lenten discipline. Family members, have positive effects on our words and ate. These include the cardinal virtues of Eucharist, Reconciliation, and so on. We like team members, "pick each other up," actions. prudence, temperance, justice, and also learn at a more profound level how and take their sense of accomplishment Fifth, each baseball team has coaches courage, as well as the theological God in His mercy personalizes these from the accomplishment of the team as and a manager who have the responsibil- virtues of faith, hope, and love. Above terms in our individual lives and in the a whole. This serves to correct the indi- ity of preparing the team during spring all, each family member must learn the life of our family. We learn in particular vidualist perfectionism that is so much a training to play a season of 162 games. virtue of humility, which means forget- ways what St. Paul means when he says, part of our culture in which failure is not These coaches and the manager do not ting yourself as you live into the truth of "I have been crucified with Christ; it is tolerated even to the point that attempts themselves play on the field. But in a the Catholic faith. Humility allows us to no longer I who live, but Christ who are made to cover up our failure. In base- family, there are no coaches or manager accept God's forgiveness of ourselves lives in me; and the life I now live in the ball failure cannot be covered up. that are not playing the game. We are all and to extend that forgiveness to other flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Fourth, baseball players learn to in this together. However, any baseball family members. The way we live these who loved me and gave himself for me" focus on the little things that are right in team will have older, veteran players virtues varies in each family depending (Gal 2:20, RSVCE). front of them at the present moment. The who have a responsibility to teach the upon its unique circumstances. In other Finally, I remember my Dad teaching most important thing in any game at any younger players both by precept and words, virtue must be incarnated in the me how to hit a baseball. He taught me moment is the next pitch. Each player on example. Parents and older brothers and life of each particular family in that har- that there are many variations in the way the field has a defensive assignment that sisters have a responsibility to the monious wedding of structure and free- the bat is held, in the position of the feet, can change from one pitch to the next. younger members of the family to teach dom. and in the place to stand in the batter's Each player must know what every other them the life lessons that form their char- Seventh, if we follow baseball spring box. However, there is one thing that is a player on the field will do if the ball is acter as Catholic Christians. training, we become reacquainted with constant: the batter must always "keep hit to a certain place. With each pitch the Sixth, in baseball we see the harmo- the unique language of baseball. Once his eye on the ball." Just so, in our batter must reexamine his approach and nious wedding of structure and freedom. again we hear the terms pop fly, foul Lenten discipline as Catholics, we must suit it to the count of balls and strikes, The field itself teaches us that. The "dia- ball, single, double, triple, home run, always keep our eye on Jesus Christ. the number of outs, players on base, and mond" is the same size in every ballpark. sacrifice bunt, steal, slide, change up, Lent is that spring training time in our shifting defensive alignments of the There are ninety feet between bases, and slider, four seamer, cutter, and, or course, Church year when we, once again, renew fielders. When families adopt Lenten dis- it is sixty feet six inches from the pitch- balls and strikes. We hear terms like our commitment to keep our eye on ciplines together, each member learns to ing rubber to home plate. However, there dugout, bullpen, warm up, on deck, and Jesus Christ and to see everything else focus on the little things that are right in is no set size for the outfield or for foul in the hole. Like baseball, the Christian through Him, who is the Way, the Truth, front of them. Each learns how to live territory. This combination of structure faith has terms that are unique and with and The Life (Jn 14:6). PAPA (Para 14) hasta llegar a la demonización que diálogo constructivo, a una laboriosidad nifica periodismo "sin fingimientos, favorece los conflictos" provechosa", dijo el papa. hostil a las falsedades, a eslóganes efec- poner en discusión positivamente los Con la difusión rápida de noticias e El periodista, dijo, tiene una respon- tistas". prejuicios y abrir un diálogo constructi- información, real y falsa, las vidas y las sabilidad especial en el mundo moderno Un periodismo de paz sirve a todas vo, se corre el riesgo de convertirse en almas están en juego, dijo, porque el de los medios y "tiene la tarea, en el las personas, "especialmente a aquellos actores involuntarios de la difusión de "padre de las mentiras" es el demonio. frenesí de las noticias y en el torbellino -- y son la mayoría en el mundo -- que opiniones sectarias e infundadas", dijo El discernimiento verdadero, dijo el de las primicias, de recordar que en el no tienen voz; un periodismo que no el papa. papa, significa examinar la información centro de la noticia no está la velocidad queme las noticias, sino que se esfuerce Personas que publican o retuitean y ver lo que promueve la comunión y la en darla y el impacto sobre las cifras de en buscar las causas reales de los con- información falsa, dijo el papa, se con- bondad, al tiempo que rechaza lo que audiencia, sino las personas". flictos, para favorecer la comprensión vierten en "actores involuntarios de la "tiende a aislar, dividir y contraponer". El papa Francisco pidió a profesion- de sus raíces y su superación a través de difusión de opiniones sectarias e infun- "Por sus frutos podemos distinguir la ales que trabajan en los medios de la puesta en marcha de procesos virtu- dadas". verdad de los enunciados: si suscitan comunicación que promuevan "un peri- osos; un periodismo empeñado en Una forma de saber si algo se debe polémica, fomentan divisiones, infunden odismo de paz", lo que no significa indicar soluciones alternativas a la verificar y no compartir, dijo, es ver si resignación; o si, por el contrario, llevan ignorar los problemas ni pintar condi- escalada del clamor y de la violencia presenta a otra persona "como enemigo, a la reflexión consciente y madura, al ciones mejor de los que están, pero sig- verbal".

EDICTAL SUMMONS EDICTAL SUMMONS January 31, 2018 January 31, 2018 CASE: JARAMILLO -- LUJAN (MENDEZ) CASE: GAUNA -- FLORES (GONZALES) NO.: SO/18/06 NO.: SO/18/07

The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo is seeking The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo is seeking Maria Ana Lujan (Mendez). Isabell Flores (Gonzales). You are hereby summoned to appear before the Tribunal of the Catholic You are hereby summoned to appear before the Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the 28th day of February 2018, to answer to the Petition of Jose before the 28th day of February 2018, to answer to the Petition of Manuel Carlos Jaramillo, now introduced before the Diocesan Tribunal in an action Gauna, Jr., now introduced before the Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, styled, “Jose Jaramillo and Maria Lujan (Mendez), Petition for Declaration of “Manuel Gauna and Isabell Gonzales, Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of Invalidity of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: JARAMILLO -- Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: GAUNA -- FLORES (GONZA- LUJAN (MENDEZ); Protocol No.: SO/18/06, on the Tribunal Docket of the LES); Protocol No.: SO/18/07, on the Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San Diocese of San Angelo. Angelo. You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or in writing. Failure You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or in writing. Failure to communicate within the prescribed period of time will be considered your to communicate within the prescribed period of time will be considered your consent for the Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the above-named consent for the Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the above-named case. case. Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo on this 31st day of Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo on this 31st day of January 2018. January 2018.

Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div., JCL Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div., JCL Judicial Vicar Judicial Vicar The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 21

Clergy Appreciation Dinner Member Catholic News Service Catholic Press Association Texas Catholic News Published the 1st Monday following the 1st Saturday of each month and delivered to all registered parishioners in the San Angelo Diocese. Subscription rate for all others: $10 per year THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID AT SAN ANGELO, TEXAS Printed by the San Angelo Standard Times A Scripps-Howard Company

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COPY, PHOTO The Knights of Columbus DEADLINE: Council #3071 held their annual Clergy Third Friday of every month. Appreciation Dinner on Jan. 25 at St. Stephen Photos should be in jpeg format. Parish in Midland. Top: Grand Knights Austin Good (Council #12657) Letters to the editor are welcome, and Cory Rylander (Council #3017) pose with and should be emailed to Father Timothy Hayter [email protected] (center). Letters to the editor are printed at Left: Father Fernando Bonilla and Bishop Sis the discretion of the editor and stand behind Sister Tita identities of the writer are subject to Iglesias, OND (seated at left), Sister Rosalia Sabud, verification. Please include name, OND, Sister Debbie Mumaw, OSF, Sister Rita address and phone number when Campos, OSF, and Sister submitting letters. Alicia Realino, OND.

Bottom: 4th Degree Knights Matt Babb, Rick Wiederstein, Kenny Bishop Michael J. Sis Kraweitz, and Jerry Hertel. (photos by Kari Rylander) Publisher

Brian Bodiford Editor Director of Communications

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The West Texas Angelus Official Newspaper of the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to: WEST TEXAS ANGELUS P.O. Box 1829 SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 ______Page 22 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus WITNESS CHILDREN (From 4) especially during the second half of the (From 18) But the most important reason, I program, more and more group members think, remains ecclesial. The Catholic lishing a rapport with everyone and mak- volunteered individual experiences with lion are Hispanic. Our Catholic schools Church in the United States needs ing everyone feel welcome prior to the other group members as they related to presently enroll close to 1.9 million stu- priests, women and men religious, commencement of the nightly session. what had been presented during the night- dents. If anything, we should be building Catholic school teachers, lay ecclesial Each nightly session was opened with ly session. This interaction fostered a new Catholic schools -- or at the very ministers, theologians. It needs well- a prayer followed by a hymn. What fol- bonding among the attendees because it least, not closing those that already exist! rounded Catholic social, political, eco- lowed was the viewing of a short video in showed that everyone had similar experi- Those 8 million school-age Hispanic nomic, intellectual and artistic leaders. It which people described their spiritual ences and showed how much in common Catholic children will play a significant needs solid families. experiences influenced by their family they all shared. In the end more than one role defining the present and the future Where will they come from? If we members, friends and the environment parishioner related how much they had of Catholicism in the United States. We look closely at demographics, most will they found themselves in. Some had even enjoyed the program, and some even went cannot afford to take them for granted. come from the Hispanic Catholic popula- left the Church but eventually returned, on to state that if another similar program As a Church, we cannot lose them. tion. and they described the circumstances were brought about in the future, they We know that the number of Hispanic Who will prepare them with the best leading to the resumption of their faith. would be more than willing to attend. children enrolled in Catholic schools is education to serve church and society? This was followed by a period of reflec- During the fellowship period before remarkably small, compared to the size Catholic schools definitely must play a tion where group members were invited to the start of the final session, Father of the population: 315,610 during the central role. They have done it in the share their feelings on what they had just Santiago Udayar, pastor of St. Margaret academic year 2016-17. That is 4 percent past. They can and should do it today. seen. This faith sharing was followed by a of Scotland Parish, addressed the atten- of the 8 million. scripture reading and another period of dees and stated how well the program had There are many social, economic and - - - reflection. The night’s session was con- been conducted and received by all. Also even political reasons to educate cluded with a closing prayer. in attendance were Sr. Hilda Marotta, Hispanic children in Catholic schools -- Ospino is professor of theology and In the beginning all the attendees were OSF, and Sr. Adelina Garcia, OSF, whose they will be the Catholic voice in this religious education at Boston College. instructed that no one would be required ongoing support along with the diocesan country when casting their votes, serving He is a member of the leadership team to speak up or read during the sessions if Office of Evangelization and Catechesis in public office and advancing their for the Fifth National Encuentro of they felt uncomfortable doing so. proved to be invaluable for the “Be My careers a few years from now. Hispanic/Latino Ministry. However, as the program progressed, and Witness” Program. OSPINO (Para 18) población estudiantil: 315.610 durante el año escolar católicas sólidas. 2016-2017. Eso es equivalente al 4 por ciento de los 8 ¿De dónde vendrán estos líderes? Si ponemos aten- Actualmente hay unos 14.6 millones de niños católi- millones. ción a la realidad demográfica actual, la mayoría ven- cos en edad escolar en los Estados Unidos. De estos Hay muchas razones sociales, financieras e incluso drán de la población católica hispana. niños, 8 millones son hispanos. Nuestras escuelas políticas que justifican la educación de los niños his- ¿Quién les preparará con la mejor educación para católicas actualmente educan cerca de 1.9 millones de panos en las escuelas católicas -- ellos serán la voz servir efectivamente tanto en la iglesia como en la estudiantes. Si hay algo que tendría ser claro es que católica en este país cuando comiencen a elegir a sus sociedad? Sin duda alguna, las escuelas católicas ten- deberíamos estar construyendo nuevas escuelas católi- líderes, a trabajar como servidores públicos y a avanzar drán que jugar un papel central. Lo han hecho en el cas -- o al menos no cerrar las que existen. sus carreras profesionales dentro de unos años. pasado. Pueden hacerlo y deben hacerlo en nuestro día. Esos 8 millones de niños católicos hispanos en edad Pero creo que la razón más importante siempre es escolar jugarán un papel fundamental en la definición eclesial. La Iglesia Católica en los Estados Unidos - - - del presente y del futuro del catolicismo en los Estados necesita sacerdotes, religiosas y religiosos, maestros en Unidos. No podemos darnos el lujo de ignorarlos. escuelas católicas, ministros eclesiales laicos y teólo- Ospino es profesor de teología y educación reli- Como iglesia no les podemos perder. gos. giosa en Boston College. Es miembro del equipo de lid- Sabemos que el número de niños hispanos matricu- Se necesitan líderes católicos en el campo social, erazgo del Quinto Encuentro Nacional de Pastoral lados en las escuelas católicas es notablemente político, financiero, intelectual y artístico que gocen de Hispana/Latina. pequeño, teniendo en cuenta el tamaño de esta una verdadera formación integral. Necesitamos familias BISHOP OBISPO (From 3) enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but only (Para 3) hacemos nosotros, o más bien es algo the one who does the will of my Father que Dios hace por si mismo? En el If we will truly allow God to be our in Heaven.” domingo, sino también cuando sal- fondo, el Reino es la creación de Dios, king, and not just a figurehead, then he Is the Kingdom of God something imos el viernes o el sábado por la pero nuestras acciones contribuyen a will really rule over us. He will be we make happen, or does God do it on noche. Vamos a obedecer su voluntad construir el Reino de Dios. En nues- king over the entirety of our lives. He his own? Ultimately, the Kingdom is no sólo en la forma en que tratamos a tras humildes acciones, tenemos el will be our king not only in daylight, God’s creation, but our actions can nuestro cónyuge o hijos, sino también privilegio de ser colaboradores de but also in darkness. He will reign not contribute to building God’s Kingdom. en como llevamos a cabo nuestro tra- Dios. Nuestro trabajo es el de ayudar a only over our public lives, but also in In our own humble little way, we have bajo. expandir el Reino de Dios. Todos our private lives. He will be our king the privilege of being God’s co-work- En la oración del Padre Nuestro, debemos esforzarnos para lograr la not only on Sunday, but also when we ers. Our job is to help expand the situación en la que se hace la voluntad go out on Friday or Saturday night. Kingdom of God. We should all strive rezamos “Hágase tu voluntad,” no We will obey his will not only in the to bring about the situation where “Hágase mi voluntad.” La oración de Dios, tanto en nuestra vida personal way we treat our spouse or children, God’s will is done, both in our person- implica que estamos sometiendo nues- como en la sociedad. Luego, al final but also in the way we carry out our al lives and in society. Then, at the end tra voluntad a la voluntad de Dios. de la historia cuando Cristo vuelva de work. of history when Christ returns again, Cuando el Reino de Dios veine, se nuevo, el Reino de Dios será comple- In the Lord’s Prayer, we pray “Thy the Kingdom of God will be complete- hace la voluntad de Dios. Permitimos tamente cumplido. Será un banquete will be done,” not “My will be done.” ly fulfilled. It will be an eternal ban- que Dios reine en nuestra vida. Esto eterno de alegría completa donde Dios The prayer implies that we are submit- quet of complete joy where God will significa vivir una vida de obediencia destruirá la muerte y la injusticia para ting our will to the will of God. When destroy death and injustice forever. He activa a la voluntad de Dios. En siempre. Él limpiara las lágrimas de God’s Kingdom comes, God’s will is will wipe away the tears from all faces. Mateo 7:21, Jesús capta la conexión todos los ojos. done. We allow God to reign in our Of course, we are not there yet. entre el Reino y seguir la voluntad de Por supuesto, no estamos allí life. This means living a life of active Nevertheless, we hope in that future, Dios cuando dice: “No todos los que todavía. No obstante, esperamos en obedience to God’s will. In Matthew and we are sustained by that hope. dicen: ‘Señor, Señor’ entrarán en el ese futuro, y estamos sostenidos por 7:21, Jesus captures the connection Meanwhile, we continue our journey in Reino de los Cielos, sino el que hace esa esperanza. Por ahora, continuamos between the Kingdom and following this imperfect world, doing whatever la voluntad de mi Padre en los nuestro camino en este mundo imper- God’s will when he says, “Not every- we can to be instruments of the Cielos.” fecto, haciendo lo que podemos para one who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will Kingdom of God. ¿Es el Reino de Dios algo que ser instrumentos del Reino de Dios. The Angelus FEBRUARY 2018 Page 23 CONTRIBUTIONS (From 7) provided by the 2017 Tax Cut and Jobs Act that offers benefit of a federal tax credit without taking any money parents the opportunity to save for their child's educa- out of the federal or state education budgets. The fund- We celebrate the centrality of faith in our Catholic tion. The popular 529 Savings Accounts, which more ing source would be a new stream of private money, schools. Catholicism gives shape to the climate and cul- than 13 million families use to save for higher educa- stimulated by the federal tax break. Parental choice is ture present within the walls of our schools. We teach tion, may now be used for tuition expenses in grades K- just an idea if there is not funding to enact real change faith. We model faith. We foster faith. Many parents 12. While this provision is a significant step, more in the lives of students. want their children to be in a school environment that needs to be done. Especially this week: Celebrate, get involved and forms values and fosters ethical living. They should To ensure access to school choice for all children, advocate on behalf of Catholic schools that matter and have that choice. particularly those of low and modest incomes, and in make such a difference in our society. As we celebrate this week, we also raise the need for keeping with President Donald Trump's campaign - - - expanded state and federal support to ensure parents' promise, Congress should write a national education tax Editor's Note: More details on the research, statistics right to choose the best school for their child. Much credit plan to create scholarship granting entities -- and church documents referenced in this guest commen- progress has been made across the country at the state SGOs -- in every state. These organizations would raise tary can be found at visit www.usccb.org and ncea.org. level. At the federal level, there is now a new option funds from private donors and businesses using the EDUCATION (From 6)

Philadelphia, for her patience and caring attitude throughout third and fourth grade. "It was Catholic school that helped me to settle down and to focus," Bishop Murry said. As for rising tuition, Bishop Murry sug- gested two approaches. The first involves helping parents realize that 27 states and the District of Columbia have legislation providing financial assistance to parents who choose private or faith-based schools. The second requires school leaders and clergy "to be courageous and undaunted in going to donors, people whose lives have been positively affected by Catholic schools and have been blessed with eco- nomic security ... and ask them to give back to Catholic schools," he said. "(We have) to get them involved, to not be afraid to talk to them and say we need your help in maintaining these schools," Bishop Murry added. The church also is contending with the growth of charter schools. While publicly funded, charters schools are privately run. They offer parents an alternative to tradi- tional public education. However, oversight of charter schools is spotty and at time lax. Numerous charter schools nationwide have been found to be in disrepair, offer inadequate instructional resources or a narrow curriculum, and lack transparency and public accountability. And at some schools, student performance has been lower than at public schools in the same community. Bishop Murry said that even the most successful charter schools are not a substi- tute for Catholic schools, "where the whole atmosphere is an atmosphere of living faith." The work ahead is expected to take time to unfold. Bishop Murry said. He hopes that regional or statewide gatherings of bishops will undertake the question of transforming Catholic schools. He also said another national gathering to discuss progress would be beneficial. "It was an excellent meeting," he said of two-day gathering. "The conversation was very, very good, very frank, and, I think, very helpful in terms of mapping out a plan to go forward into the future in revi- talizing our schools." - - - Follow Sadowski on Twitter: @DennisSadowski. Page 24 FEBRUARY 2018 The Angelus

the Dedication of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Odessa, TX

January 14, 2018

The view from the new choir loft as Dr. Dan Keast conducts. (photo by Alan Torre / APTorre Photography)

Floro DeGuzman (pilot) APTorre Photography

Above: an aerial photo of the new church building. Note the seam in the roof marking the size of the pre-existing building.

Left: Father Mark Woodruff and Monsignor James Bridges process in flanked by members of the Knights of Columbus. Woodruff and Bridges are the only two pastors who have served St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in its 36-year history. (photo by Alan Torre)

Below: the musicians and choir of St. Elizabeth. (photo by Christopher Wilcox)