Holy Spirit Parish in Sweetwater Welcomes World Youth Day Pilgrim Cross Related Story, Schedule, Pgs

Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Volume XXXVI, No. 5 MAY 2016

Holy Spirit Parish in Sweetwater Welcomes World Youth Day Pilgrim Cross Related story, schedule, Pgs. 2, 5

DIOCESE OF SAN ANGELO NONPROFIT ORG. PO BOX 1829 US POSTAGE PAID SAN ANGELO TX 76902-1829 SAN ANGELO, TX PERMIT NO. 44 Page 2 MAY 2016 The Angelus The Inside Front Organizers working diligently on WYDUSA-San Angelo By Jimmy Patterson at the intersection of Bell Street and Rio tee of volunteers overseeing the coordination Editor Concho Drive and proceeds to San Angelo’s of WYDUSA-San Angelo which, despite its McNease Convention Center, site of the name, is not targeted for youth, but for young SAN ANGELO — Young adults from WYDUSA-San Angelo event. adults aged 18-39. throughout the diocese will converge on San A daylong celebration of faith, featuring an “Since last October we’ve been discussing Angelo on July 30 as part of a global obser- address by Bishop Michael J. Sis, other pre- our vision and what we actually are being vance of World Youth Day. senters, workshops and opportunities for song, asked to do, based on what the U.S. WYDUSA-San Angelo begins at 9:15 a.m. prayer, devotion and reconciliation will con- Conference of Catholic Bishops want us to as the Pilgrim Cross, which has processed tinue until the closing Mass at 4 p.m. focus on, and the call of Pope Francis that no throughout the diocese since April 6, will be presided over by Bishop Sis. young adult is to be excluded from having carried by young adults from Our Lady of Roselva Ruiz, a parishioner at Holy Guadalupe in Eldorado. The procession begins Redeemer in Odessa, is chairing the commit- (Please See WYDUSA/4)

Diocesan Awards Banquet and Dinner Sister Elizabeth Swartz honored for contributions The Angelus

Sr. Elizabeth Ann Swartz, SSND, superintendent of schools in the dioceses of San Angelo and El Paso, was presented the 2016 “Lead. Learn. Proclaim. Award” at the National Catholic Education Association Convention in San Diego. This award recognizes her out- standing efforts, contributions and achievements on behalf of Catholic schools. For over 50 years, Bishop Sis, center, with adult award recipients from the annual Diocesan Awards Banquet and Dinner, April 22 in San Angelo. Sr. Elizabeth Swartz has actively improved the quality of Catholic Bishop: Your whole person communicates Jesus school education as a teacher, school princi- pal and diocesan By Becca Nelson Sankey in ways he cannot. host of individuals — youth and Sister Elizabeth “You young people give witness by adults alike — whose parishes nomi- superintendent. Her SAN ANGELO — As bishop of the way you live,” he told the crowd of nated them for demonstrating out- generosity with knowl- the San Angelo Diocese, the Most approximately 100 gathered at standing Christian leadership charac- edge, time and Catholicity are greatly appre- Reverend Michael Sis is tasked with Cathedral Church of the Sacred Heart. teristics within and outside the ciated by the faculty, staff and the communi- serving parishes in 29 counties within “You teenagers can connect to Church. ties she serves. Ever present at sports events, a 37,433 square-mile radius. At the teenagers in ways I cannot. You hang “I think it’s important to recog- science fairs, fundraising events, service Diocesan Awards Banquet, an annual out in the places young people hang nize that we thank them for all they projects and professional development dinner and ceremony hosted by the out, you speak the lingo, you use the do,” said Sister Adelina Garcia, asso- opportunities, her gifts and dedication have Office of Evangelization and apps. …That means God is calling you ciate director of the Office of impacted so many children’s lives. Sr. Catechesis on April 23, Bishop Sis to be a witness. Evangelization and Catechesis – Elizabeth is truly a visible servant leader. stressed the importance of the dio- “The best way to communicate our Youth and Young Adult Ministry. The National Catholic Education cese’s catechetical leaders in being faith in catechesis is personally. Your “It’s good to bring them together Association (NCEA) has a longstanding tra- instruments of Christ and connecting whole person is communicating Jesus.” dition of honoring and recognizing excel- with the Church’s young lay people The awards banquet recognized a (Please See AWARDS/21) lence and distinguished service in Catholic education. The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 3 CALENDARS From The Bishop’s Desk

BISHOP MICHAEL SIS’ Mass at the Tom Ranch at SCHEDULE 6:30 p.m. An introduction to Amoris Laetitia MAY 28 — ODESSA, St. 1 — GARDEN CITY, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, By Most Rev. Michael J. Sis concern for the future of marriage. Lawrence, Confirmation Mass Confirmation Mass at 11:00 Bishop of San Angelo g Related Coverage, He reminds us that the family is the at 10:30 a.m. a.m. basis of society, yet the family 1 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred Pgs. 6-7 29 — ELDORADO, Our Pope Francis has published a throughout the world is in crisis. Heart Cathedral, Marriage Lady of Guadalupe, Jubilee Mass at 3:00 p.m. Confirmation Mass at 11:30 landmark document on marriage it is organized according to para- He laments the falling birth rate in 6 — SONORA, St. Ann, a.m. and family life graph numbers. When I make ref- Europe. He sees that many young Confirmation Mass at 6:00 30 — SAN ANGELO, in the form of erence to the text in this article, I people are not interested in getting p.m. Pastoral Center, Vocation an Apostolic will refer to the paragraph number. married. He is disturbed by the fact 7 — OZONA, Our Lady of Team Meeting at 2:00 p.m. Exhortation The document is the fruit of two that economic conditions cause Perpetual Help, Confirmation 30-June 3 — SAN ANGE- entitled “Amoris worldwide consultative events many mothers to have to get two Mass at 6:00 p.m. LO, Christ the King Retreat Laetitia: The called Synods of Bishops, held in jobs, leaving their children alone. 8 — FORT STOCKTON, Center, Priests’ Retreat Joy of Love: On Rome in October 2014 and October These facts have motivated the Our Lady of Guadalupe, Love in the 2015. The preparation for the dis- Holy Father to write a positive Confirmation Mass at 10:30 JUNE a.m. MAY 30-JUNE 3 — SAN Family.” It is cussions in the synods included work that seeks to make marriage the sort of book questionnaires that were used more desirable and attractive. It 8 — SANDERSON, St. ANGELO, Christ the King Bishop Sis James, Confirmation Mass at Retreat Center, Priests’ that merits a around the world. presents the reasons and motiva- 4:00 p.m. Retreat slow, patient, and Amoris Laetitia is very concrete tions for choosing marriage and 10 — SAN ANGELO, St. 3 — SAN ANGELO, meditative reading. I highly recom- and realistic. It is based in human family. It offers a perspective of Joseph, San Angelo Deanery Cathedral of the Sacred mend it, especially for any experience, the Holy Scriptures, and hope and compassion, filled with Meeting at 10:00 a.m. Heart, Priestly Ordination of Christian who is married or think- almost 2,000 years of Church teach- concrete reminders of the beauty of 12 — ODESSA, St. Deacon Tony Franco at 6:00 ing of getting married. ings. It is full of warm pastoral family life. It encourages couples Joseph, Confirmation Mass at p.m. The book reads more easily and 6:00 p.m. guidance about the daily life of the to trust in the grace of God for liv- 5 — ABILENE, St. Vincent smoothly than many Vatican docu- ing out their marriage. 13 — MIDLAND, San Pallotti, 25th Anniversary family. It cites the writings of Miguel Arcángel, Confirmation Jubilee Mass of Rev. Terry ments. It will soon appear on the Francis’ predecessors, particularly What does the document not do? Mass at 6:00 p.m. Brenon at 10:00 a.m. shelves of bookstores, and it is Pope John Paul II and Pope It does not give up on marriage. It 14 — ODESSA, St. Mary, 5 — ODESSA, St. Joseph, already available in several lan- Benedict XVI. It also draws upon does not express hopelessness or Confirmation Mass at 11:00 40th Anniversary Jubilee guages on the Vatican website Francis’ own previous writings as helplessness in the face of moral a.m. Mass of Rev. Frank Chavez www.vatican.va. The text consists bishop and pope. failings. It is not just trying to be 15 — ANDREWS, Our at 5:00 p.m. of 256 pages organized into nine Pope Francis was motivated to Lady of Lourdes, 7 — SAN ANGELO, chapters. Like all papal documents, write this document because of his (Please See BISHOP/20) Confirmation Mass at 10:30 Pastoral Center, Meeting of a.m. Finance Council and 15 — MIDLAND, St. Presbyteral Council at 11:00 Stephen, Confirmation Mass a.m., and Meeting of Una Introducción a Amoris Laetitia at 5:00 p.m. Presbyteral Council at 2:00 Obispo Michael J. Sis www.vatican.va . El texto consiste de Papa Francisco como obispo y papa. 17 — CORPUS CHRISTI, p.m. 256 páginas organizadas en nueve El Papa Francisco fue motivado a Kenedy Foundation Board 8 — MIDLAND, Our Lady Meeting El Papa Francisco ha publicado un capítulos. Al igual que todos los doc- escribir este documento debido a su of Guadalupe, Confirmation documento histórico sobre el matri- umentos papales, se organiza de preocupación por el futuro del matri- 18 — COLEMAN, Sacred Mass at 6:00 p.m. monio y la vida familiar en la forma acuerdo al número de párrafo. monio. Nos recuerda que la familia es Heart, Confirmation Mass at 11 — ODESSA, Holy 6:30 p.m. Redeemer, Installation of de una Cuando hago referencia al texto en la base de la sociedad; sin embargo, 20 — BROWNWOOD, St. Lectors at 10:00 a.m. Exhortación este artículo, me referiré al número de la familia en todo el mundo está en Mary, Queen of Peace, 12-17 — Diocese of Apostólica titulada párrafo. crisis. El Papa lamenta el descenso de Diaconal Ordination of Josh Orange California, USCCB “Amoris Laetitia: El documento es el fruto de dos la natalidad en Europa. Nota que Gray at 6:30 p.m. Special Assembly La Alegría del eventos de consulta mundiales llama- muchos jóvenes no están interesados 21 — ABILENE, St. Vincent 18-19 — DALLAS, Amor: Sobre el dos Sínodos de los Obispos, que se en casarse. Él se ve perturbado por el Pallotti, Confirmation Mass at Steubenville Lone Star Amor en la llevaron a cabo en Roma en octubre hecho de que las condiciones 5:30 p.m. Catholic Youth Conference Familia.” Es el de 2014 y octubre de 2015. La económicas hacen que muchas 22 — ABILENE, St. Francis 23 — SAN ANGELO, tipo de libro que preparación de las discusiones en los madres tengan que conseguir dos tra- of Assisi, Confirmation Mass Pastoral Center, Priestly Life merece ser leído sínodos incluyó cuestionarios que se bajos, dejando solos a sus hijos. at 9:00 a.m. & Formation Committee de manera lenta, utilizaron por alrededor del mundo. Estos hechos han motivado al Santo 22 — SAN ANGELO, Meeting at 1:00 p.m. paciente, y medita- Obispo Sis Amoris Laetitia es muy concreto y Padre a escribir una obra positiva que Museum of Fine Arts, Lady in 25 — FORT STOCKTON, tiva. Lo recomiendo realista. Se basa en la experiencia busca hacer el matrimonio más Blue Annual Celebration at Our Lady of Guadalupe, encarecidamente, especialmente para humana, las Sagradas Escrituras, y deseable y atractivo. Presenta las 5:00 p.m., Mass at 7:00 p.m. Diaconal Ordination of Tim cualquier Cristiano que está casado o casi 2,000 años de enseñanzas de la razones y motivaciones para escoger 25 — SAN ANGELO, St. Hayter at 10:00 a.m. está pensando en casarse. Iglesia. Está lleno de guía pastoral el matrimonio y la familia. Ofrece Mary, Confirmation Mass at 26 — COLORADO CITY, El libro se lee con mayor facilidad cariñosa sobre la vida diaria de la una perspectiva de esperanza y com- 6:30 p.m. St. Ann, Confirmation Mass at y suavidad que muchos documentos familia. Cita los escritos de los prede- pasión, lleno de recordatorios concre- 26 — SAN ANGELO, 10:30 a.m. del Vaticano. Pronto aparecerá en los cesores del Papa Francisco, en partic- tos de la belleza de la vida familiar. Angelo Catholic School, estantes de las librerías, y ya está ular el Papa Juan Pablo II y el Papa Anima a las parejas a confiar en la Graduation Mass at 8:30 a.m. disponible en varios idiomas en el Benedicto XVI. También se basa en 27 — STANTON, Rural Life (Continued, Pg 9) sitio web del Vaticano los propios escritos anteriores del (Please See OBISPO/19) Page 4 MAY 2016 The Angelus SEMINARIAN OF THE MONTH Solo: Balancing personal Ordination growing closer for seminarian devotion with Catholic Upcoming Ordinations Ordination is approaching more. I must wash the feet of so fast! It seems like just the poor and serve the table. I May 20 -- Josh Gray, yesterday I was entering am following Christ the servant, social teaching important seminary with two other to whom I am continually dedi- 6:30 p.m., St. Mary, By Jimmy Patterson Brownwood, brothers, with plenty of time cating my life. As I have faced (Transitional Diaconate) to spare. This ordination is a many struggles, the one con- Editor June 3 -- Deacon call that I accepted many stant in my life has been Christ. West Texas Angelus Tony Franco, 6 p.m., years ago, and I know I can- His patient love and presence not do it alone. There has has filled me with peace time Sacred Heart Cathedral been so much support over and time again. As I approach SAN ANGELO — The differ- (Priesthood) the years from friends and the altar, I expect to be ence between adults and young June 25 -- Tim family. As I am looking for- changed. Not in a moment of people, Sal Solo says, is that Hayter, 10 a.m., Our ward to being ordained, it is Josh Gray sudden and complete transfor- when an adult hears of a huge Lady of Guadalupe, the reverse of what any other big ceremo- mation, but in the little things. I am called global societal problem, they Fort Stockton ny or celebration entails. I am not being to put aside my own life, and live for (Transitional Diaconate) promoted or given a great honor to boast Christ who came not to serve but to be oftentimes will respond in a way of. No, I am being called to serve even served. -- Josh Gray that recognizes the problem but questions how they can do any- DIOCESAN BRIEFS thing to make a significant difference. But a young person, for Personnel Changes Coleman soph headed to Australia to instance, hears that 162 million In service of God and the people of the Diocese of San people in the world live on 50 Angelo, the following changes of assignment will take compete in cross country competition Marie Rosales, a Coleman High School sophomore cents a day and says, “I can help place: and parishioner at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in fix that.” Rev. Michael Rodriguez will become Vocation Coleman has been invited to repre- In fact, it was precisely that Director of the diocese as of July 1. sent Texas as a cross country ath- Rev. Fernando Bonilla, MSP, will become pastor of response that led to Solo’s “50 lete in Australia this summer. Marie, Holy Redeemer Parish in Odessa as of July 1, 2016 Cents a Day” relief effort, which a 2015 state qualifier in cross coun- Rev. Miguel Romero, MSP, is parochial vicar of Holy challenges people to set aside 50 try as well as a two-time district and Redeemer Parish in Odessa as of April 15, 2016. regional competitor, received the cents each day, then, at the end After his priestly ordination on June 3, Deacon Tony invitation shortly after running in the of the month, donate $15 to Franco will become parochial vicar of St. Ann Parish in state competition in Round Rock. hunger efforts. Midland as of July 1. “I am excited for the opportunity The date of the assignment of Rev. Innocent “The great thing is that idea came from a kid,” said Solo, who spoke to to represent my family, school, Eziefule as parochial vicar of Sacred Heart Parish in a group of young adults and high-school age youth, April 9, at Sacred community, state and country in Abilene will begin on June 1 rather than July 1. Heart Cathedral gymnasium. “That’s one of the things I love about this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Rev. Kumar Jujjuvarapu will become parochial vicar Rosales said. teenagers. Oftentimes, adults feel just overwhelmed at a problem, where- of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Odessa as of June 7. Marie will compete in the Down as a teenager knows exactly what they are going to do to help. They’ll Under Sports Tournament, on the say, ‘I heard that, so I’m going to do this.” St. Vincent parish to celebrate Gold Coast of Australia, where she Solo, former front man for the 1980s British New Wave band Classix pastor’s 25th anniversary will run two races. Nouveux, has turned his attention to subjects higher than the popular ABILENE — The parish of St. Vincent Pallotti In order to achieve this goal of music culture. Today, he lives in Florida and travels the country evangel- Catholic Church, 2525 Westview in Abilene, will cele- competing internationally, Rosales is asking for donations of any izing youth about not just what young people can receive from the brate the 25th Anniversary of Father Terry Brenon to Church — but what they can give. the priesthood. A Mass of Thanksgiving is scheduled for amount to go towards the costs of Sunday, June 5, 2016 at 10 am. Father Terry was competing Down Under. When he presents to retreatants, he often focuses on the Sacraments ordained by Most Rev. Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI, Bishop “When we participate in sports, we and what Catholics receive in the morning, while in the afternoon center- of San Angelo at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, glorify God, who created our bodies ing on Catholic Social teaching. San Angelo, on May 25, 1991. Assigned to St. Vincent and who sustains us in life. Athletic competition is an “The sacraments, for us, that’s our spiritual food, so we can be blessed Pallotti Church in 2005, he serves as pastor of St. important form of socialization, and it inspires hard work and self-discipline,” Bishop Michael Sis said. “I encour- and then go out and share it with others,” he said. “Catholic social teach- Vincent Pallotti and Our Mother of Mercy Mission in ing ... it’s social, it’s what we do with others and for others. Merkel. In his priestly service, he has served parishes age people of all ages to get involved in some form of in Fort Stockton, Sanderson, Coyanosa, Imperial, exercise on a regular basis. We have many young peo- “It’s necessary for every Catholic to remember that on the judgment Stanton, Lenorah, San Angelo, Carlsbad, Sterling City, ple in the Diocese of San Angelo who participate in Track day, Jesus is going to ask you, ‘When I was hungry, did you feed me?’ Abilene and Merkel. and Cross Country. I admire their dedication. For Marie, He’s not going to ask how many Novenas did you pray or how many this is a beautiful opportunity to see another country and Masses did you celebrate. We should of course go to Mass and we meet runners from around the world.” St. Margaret Church in San Angelo Marie’s grandmother, Terry, will also be attending as should pray, but we are going to be judged by what we did on earth for to host spring festival May 22 a chaperone. Anyone interested in donating, can do so others.” SAN ANGELO — St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic by sending contributions to 1415 Hillcrest Street, Sally Pena, a parishioner at Holy Spirit Church in Sweetwater, helped Church will be having its spring festival on Sunday, Coleman, Texas 76834 or by visiting www.downunder- facilitate one of the small groups during Solo’s appearance at the May 22, 2016 at 2619 Era St, San Angelo. There will sports.com/payment?160921 Cathedral gymnasium. be a delicious BBQ chicken dinner being served from “Our communities need to be together to make a difference,” she said. 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. for only $10 per adult plate and $6 Cemetery plot price adjustment per child plate. There will also be drive-thru plates to go Effective June 1, 2016 the price for plots in Calvary “If one person doesn’t do anything then that will hurt our effort. I may at $10 each. The festival will run from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 Cemetery, San Angelo, will be $1,800. Half plots for not be the brightest person in terms of some things, but I do know that in p.m. with a raffle, auction, silent auction, and games for cremains will be $900. The price for Mausoleum plots my heart there is a lot that I am supposed to do for others. And I need all ages. Come for a day of family fun and fellowship. is from $2,550 to $4,500 depending on level and loca- the Lord to guide me and show me what I am supposed to do.” tion. The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 5

Pilgrim Cross Visits The World Youth Day Pilgrim Cross Lady in Blue celebration set for May 22 (photo at left) will stop at many parish- The Angelus es in the Diocese of San Angelo before July 30, 2016, the date of the World SAN ANGELO — The eighth Youth Day-USA event at San Angelo’s annual Sor María de Jesús de McNease Convention Center. Following Ágreda “The Lady in Blue” cele- is a schedule of when the cross will be bration will be held Sunday, May at each parish: 22 at 5:00 p.m. at the San Angelo APRIL Museum of Fine Arts. 6 — Brownwood, St. Mary The event has been held at the 9 — Abilene, Sacred Heart Christ the King Retreat Center in 13 — Abilene, St. Vincent recent years, but crowds have out- 16 — Sweetwater, Holy Spirit grown that venue. 20 — Big Spring, Holy Trinity The celebration will begin with a 23 — Stanton, St. Joseph 27 — Midland, St. Stephen brief ceremony by the Jumano 30 — Midland, St. Ann Native Americans beside the Concho MAY River at the Celebration Bridge, fol- 4 — Garden City, St. Lawrence lowed by the Procession of Flowers 7 — Midland, San Miguel across the bridge to the museum, 11 — Odessa, St. Joseph/St. Anthony where Bishop Michael Sis will cele- 14 — Andrews, Our Lady of Lourdes brate the Mass of the Holy Trinity 18 — Odessa, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and Bishop Michael Pfeifer will con- 21 — Odessa, St. Mary celebrate. The Mass will satisfy your 25 — Odessa, Holy Redeemer Sunday Mass obligation. 28 — Crane, Good Shepherd JUNE Refreshments will be available 1 — McCamey, Sacred Heart after the Mass at the museum. 4 — Ft. Stockton, Our Lady of Guadalupe Known as “The Lady in Blue,” 8 — Sheffield, Good Shepherd Sor María de Jesús de Ágreda was 11 — Ozona, Our Lady a cloistered nun who lived in 15 — Sonora, St. Ann Ágreda, Spain in the 1600s. She is 22 — Menard, Sacred Heart known for her legendary bilocation 25 — Brady, St. Patrick — being in body at her convent in Spain while evangelizing in spirit JULY to the Jumanos, indigenous Indians 2 — Wall, St. Ambrose of this area. 9 — Rowena/Olfen/Miles, St. Joseph 13 — San Angelo, Sacred Heart Cathedral The arrival of missionaries as a 20 — San Angelo, St. Margaret result of María’s appearances 23 — Eldorado, Our Lady of Guadalupe secured San Angelo’s place in his- 30 — Eldorado, Special Procession A procession was led at Christ the King Retreat Center during last year’s observance of Lady tory as the site of the first mission- in Blue Day in San Angelo (Courtesy photo). ary efforts in Texas. Heart of Mercy Prayer Group attends charismatic conference

The Angelus in our lives and how we can share that message with others. We learned that On March 4-5, 2016, members and we CAN be the mercy that others need. friends of the Heart of Mercy Catholic This year’s conference starts the Charismatic Prayer Group, at right, preparation for the 2017 50th attended the Annual Catholic Anniversary of the Catholic Charismatic Conference in San Charismatic Renewal. Mark your cal- Antonio. The theme was “Mission endar for March 18, 2017 for the Possible…You CAN Do It” and was Jubilee Celebration in San Antonio at held at St. Mary Magdalen Church. the Henry B. Gonzales Convention The main speaker this year was Fr. Center. Dave Pivonka, TOR. Fr. Dave is a full The Heart of Mercy Prayer Group time missionary preacher and teacher. meets at Christ the King Retreat He is a dynamic speaker with a gift of Center, in San Angelo, every Monday reaching young and old alike! evening at 7 p.m. All are invited to At the conference we were given join us as we pray and praise our tools to help us live the year of mercy, Lord! Visit our website at: not only for a year, but to change our sanangeloheartofmercy.com, or call lives. We explored what mercy means JoAnn Turner at 325-763-9400. Page 6 MAY 2016 The Angelus

See Bishop Sis’ column on Amoris Laetitia / Pg. 3 Bishop introduces Amoris Laetitia to media, public By Jimmy Patterson This work is based in human experi- West Texas Angelus ence, the Bible, and almost 2,000 years of Church teachings. It cites the writings of SAN ANGELO — With the April Francis’ predecessors, particularly Pope 2016 release of the apostolic exhortation, John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI, and Amoris Laetitia, Bishop also draws on Francis’ own Michael J. Sis said the “The key (to a previous writings as bishop best way of ensuring good marriage) is and pope. Pope Francis’ words are “Amoris Laetitia is a very heeded is to further preparing well, get- positive work which seeks to develop the Church’s ting to know your make marriage more desir- marriage formation and able and attractive. It pres- marriage support pro- partner well and ents the reasons and motiva- grams. inviting God in from tions for choosing marriage The pope’s exhortation and family,” Bishop Sis said. focuses on love in mar- the very beginning.” “It offers a perspective of riage and family. The hope and compassion, filled document is the fruit of with concrete reminders of two worldwide consulta- — Bishop Michael the beauty of family life. It tive events called Synods encourages couples to trust of Bishops, in J. Sis in the grace of God for liv- Rome, October 2014 and ing out their marriage.” October 2015. The synods included ques- At a news conference introducing the tionnaires completed by Catholics around the world. (Please See CONFERENCE/23) Bishop Sis, second from right, with David and Linda Erickson, and, at right, Tom Burke. Observers: Document a model of mercy for families “Families should not see By Dennis Sadowski themselves as a refuge Catholic News Service from society, but instead WASHINGTON — Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation on love and the family invites the church to see the daily struggles of families as an opportunity to go forth from their homes encounter people the way Jesus encountered people with mercy throughout his life, Catholic observers said. in a spirit of solidarity Because of its length — 256 pages — and the depth to which the pope explores love, marriage and church with others. In this way, teaching on the family, the document deserves to be unpacked with patience and careful discernment for they become a hub for mercy to take root in the church's response to real human needs, Catholic leaders told Catholic News Service. integrating persons into The exhortation, "'Amoris Laetitia' (The Joy of Love), on Love in the Family," was Pope Francis' society and a point of reflection on the discussion, debate and suggestions raised during the 2014 and 2015 meetings of the Synod contact between the public of Bishops on the family. Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, and private spheres.” noted Pope Francis' repeated calls of the importance of clergy taking time to get to know individual circum-

(Please See POPE/22) Amoris Laetitia, para. 181 The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 7

Marriage as a covenant of Mercy — the much discussed Ch. 4 By Fr. Knick and Sandie Knickerbocker Church and then reflections on some implications In marriage it is necessary both to give and to and extensions of the Pope's teaching. receive love. To do this we must be willing to In Chapter 4 of Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis' The Pope begins the chapter with a lengthy receive God's love for us and know in this receiv- new Apostolic Exhortation, he writes about "Love exposition of St. Paul's great teaching on love in I ing that He also loves others. This means we must in Marriage." Seeing marriage as a "Covenant of Cor. 13 (paragraphs 89-119). This is a welcome be willing to receive God's forgiveness and allow Mercy" is an appropriate description of his under- beginning, since marriage and family are the pri- ourselves to be the conduit of God's forgiveness of standing of love in marriage, especially in this mary contexts in which we learn to receive and others (107, 108). Giving and receiving love Jubilee Year of Mercy. In this article are some give love and in which we can be most hurt by a means seeing others and ourselves with the eyes of reflections on the Pope's teaching that we think are lack of love. The remainder of this chapter is fur- especially significant for married couples and the ther commentary on St. Paul's teaching on love. (Please See KNICKERBOCKERS/9) ‘Engaged Encounter’ “The sacrament of marriage Exhortation will bring one way church living is not a social convention, an no changes to church’s Amoris Laetitia empty ritual or merely the outward sign of a commit- annulment process Editor’s Note: The following are remarks by David and Linda Editor’s Note: The following are remarks made at a April 8, 2016, Erickson, leaders in the Diocese of San Angelo’s Engaged ment. The sacrament is a gift news conference to introduce Amoris Laetitia by Tom Burke, Encounter program for adults preparing for marriage. The com- Canon Lawyer and member of the diocesan marriage tribunal. ments were made at an April 8, 2016 news conference regarding given for the sanctification the papal exhortation Amoris Laetitia. By Tom Burke Diocese of San Angelo By David and Linda Erickson and salvation of the spouses, since ‘their mutual belonging On August 15, 2015, Pope Francis promulgated an Six Engaged Encounter retreats are conducted each year in Apostolic Letter motu proprio entitled Mitis Iudex Dominus the Diocese of San Angelo, based on a proven format that Iesus. This document had full effect in the law of the goes back some 40 years. Each retreat has an average of 25- is a real representation, Catholic Church on December 8, 2015. 30 engaged couples in attendance. The changes in the law affected by Pope On occasion, in attendance, only one through the sacramental Francis dealt specifically with the proce- person that makes the engaged cou- dures of adjudicating matrimonial cases - ple is Catholic. sign, of the same relation- commonly referred to as "annulments." Before our marriage in 2004 we Prior to December 8, a matrimonial case attended the Engaged Encounter ship between Christ and the was required to be adjudicated twice: in the marriage preparation retreat at the Tribunal Office of the local diocese and in beautiful Christ The King Retreat Church. The married couple an Appellate Tribunal. Mitis Iudex kept the Center, located next to the diocesan same fundamental principles that still apply pastoral center in San Angelo. are therefore a permanent to all matrimonial cases. What changed is Our experience was life changing Burke David and Linda Erickson that the appellate process is no longer in many ways, especially in how we reminder for the Church of mandatory. Consequently, the time it took viewed marriage and our relation- for the required "appeal court trial" has been removed and it is ship with God at the center of our marriage. Soon after our what took place on the cross; much less likely to delay justice. Engaged Encounter weekend, we knew we had to be part of In addition to this ordinary process of "annulment," Pope the ministry and we joined the team nine years ago. they are for one another and Francis created an extraordinary process. This new process is The Engaged Encounter Retreat program is a couple-cen- to be utilized only when the facts of the marriage warrant tered and spiritual experience where couples listen to talks for their children witnesses swift justice. It involves the direct participation of the bishop from the team presenting on various subjects related to mar- of a diocese and the case must be so perceivably clear by riage. They then write separately and dialogue together on of the salvation in which means of the facts that the bishop deems it worthy of this new what they have written. The sharing and learning how to have and briefer process. Thus far, this briefer process is employed a Christ-centered marriage is important to their relationship. rarely throughout our world. Instead, the pope's removal of We witness each weekend how the couples are transformed they share through the the mandatory appeal has been sufficient to bring justice

(Please See EE/21) sacrament.'” (para. 72) (Please See BURKE/21) Page 8 MAY 2016 The Angelus

Commentary The joy of the family

Responding to editors' requests for a regular sampling of current commentary from around the Catholic press, here is an editorial titled, "The joy of the family," which appeared in the April 24 issue of Our Sunday Visitor, a national Catholic newsweekly based in Huntington, Indiana. It was written by the newspaper's editorial board.

The church has a marriage problem. The number of couples marrying sacramentally in the United States is down more than 60 percent from 1970. Cohabitation is becoming the norm. Amoris Laetitia Secularization is growing rapidly. The U.S. divorce rate, even among Catholics, hovers around 30 percent. Children are seen as rights and commodities Comments from church leaders rather than as gifts from God. Fewer babies are being baptized. In short, the church is losing its people. In his newest papal document, "Amoris Laetitia" "'Amoris Laetitia' is a joyful invitation for families to live the World Meeting of Families, is a great gift." ("The Joy of Love"), Pope Francis tries to stop the the works of mercy and to receive the gift of God's healing — Archbishop Charles J. Chaput of Philadelphia bleeding. He tackles head-on the fact that the where there is sin and brokenness. As he has done time and church is generally viewed as out of step with the again, Pope Francis challenges us to approach the weak "With 'Amoris Laetitia' ('The Joy of Love'), Pope Francis modern reality of 21st-century family living. And, with compassion, to 'enter into the reality of other people's has provided the church with an in-depth reflection on in classic Francis style, he urges the church to lives and to know the power of tenderness.'" Christian marriage, the intricacies of relationships, and the descend to the level of a "field hospital" — to meet — Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley of Boston struggles that people face in modern society. ... In the couples and families, who perhaps fall short of the church's ideal, where they are. introduction of 'Amoris Laetitia,' Pope Francis advises "The church," he said, quoting the final report "Personally, I was encouraged by what the pope has to say everyone to carefully read through the document because from the 2014-15 family synods, "must accompany about preparing men and women for marriage and about of its length and sometimes complex passages on matters with attention and care the weakest of her children, our need to accompany couples, especially during those of great significance. While many commentators and pun- who show signs of a wounded and troubled love, by early years when they are just starting out on the path of dits will make their interpretations known in the media in restoring in them hope and confidence ... ." While their life together. I was also touched by our Holy Father's the coming days, the Holy Father's advice is sound. I will not changing doctrine, Pope Francis conveys how call for all of us in the church to reach out with compas- also follow this advice and will offer my own thoughts necessary it is for the church to witness to the beauty and joy that abounds when marriage and family sion to wounded families and persons living in difficult sit- after careful reflection and consideration." life are centered on Christ -- even within all the uations." — Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila of Denver messiness and realities of 21st-century humanity. —Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles This, he admits, is a challenge for the church. "We -- "This compassionate approach asks the church to walk find it difficult to present marriage more as a "Amoris Laetitia" is a serious and extensive reflection on with families, to help them navigate the many challenges dynamic path to personal development and fulfil- Christian marriage. While it changes no church teaching or they face in the world today with the guidance of the Holy ment than as a lifelong burden," he writes. discipline, it does stress the importance of pastoral sensitiv- Spirit and the truth of Catholic teaching. Our priests, dea- Yet this is what we are called to do. Unlike "Laudato Si'," Francis' encyclical on ecology that ity in dealing with the difficult situations many married cons and laity are accompanying these people, staying was addressed to "every person living on this plan- couples today face. Pope Francis is skilled at analyzing the close to them and reaching out to them. While the journey et," "Amoris Laetitia" is addressed directly to cultural forces that make Christian marriage a unique wit- toward ideal situations might seem slow in coming, God is Catholics. It is first and foremost a document writ- ness, and often a special challenge. His recognition of the working in their lives, and we should appreciate that fact. ten for the new evangelization. "We need to find the importance of children and the value of adoption are great 'Amoris Laetitia' ... is a joyful invitation to families to live right language, arguments and forms of witness that expressions of support for family life. Happily, the kind of the works of mercy and to receive the gift of God's healing can help us reach the hearts of young people, pastoral discernment called for in Amoris Laetitia is where there is sin and brokenness." appealing to their capacity for generosity, commit — Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller of San Antonio already happening in many of our parish communities, and (Please See COMMENT/11) the Holy Father's encouragement, coming just months after The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 9 KNICKERBOCKERS CALENDAR (cont’d) (continued from 3) (1982) (From 7) for us and the lives of others. When mystery of marriage: God makes of 27 — Fr. Luis Hernandez this occurs, we lose ourselves to find the two spouses one single existence" CHRIST THE KING (1995) God (96) — from the inside out. If ourselves as we truly are in God's (121). He speaks of married love as "a RETREAT CENTER 27 — Msgr. Fred Nawarskas eyes. Humility and joy join as fruits dynamic process..., one which MAY (1967) this is to happen, others must reveal 13-15 Deacon Formation 27 — Fr. Mark Woodruff themselves to us, and we must be will- of God's love for us and of His love advances gradually with the progres- 16 Heart of Mercy Prayer (1972) ing to receive that revelation. When for others through us. sive integration of the gifts of God" Group 29 — Msgr. Bernard Gully we are open to the revelation of anoth- Love, forgiveness, humility, and joy (122, quoting St. John Paul II). Pope 19 DOSA Staff Mass & (1962) er person, we are also revealing our- are all aspects of God's mercy, which Francis teaches that "after the love that Lunch 30 — Msgr.Timothy selves to that person. This is so we should find first in the family. To unites us to God, conjugal love is the 20-22 Engaged Encounter Schwertner (1965) because we are created in the image of receive this bounty of mercy, all we 'greatest form of friendship' (St. 22 Natural Family Planning 31 — Fr. Joey Faylona God, who is a Trinity of Persons. must do is ask for it in the language of Thomas Aquinas). It is a union pos- 23 Heart of Mercy Prayer (2003) Each Person of the Trinity reveals repentance for trying to make ourselves sessing all the traits of a good friend- Group 31 — Fr. Gilbert Rodriguez into someone we are not. Repentance ship: concern for the good of the other, 27-29 Blessing Team (1974) Himself to the other Persons of the 29 Heart of Mercy Prayer 31 — Fr. Rodney White Trinity and receives the revelation of means recognizing we are on a journey reciprocity, intimacy, warmth, stability Group (2003) the other Persons. When we become and are somewhere between who we and the resemblance born of a shared 30-June 3 DOSA Priests’ the willing subjects of God's revelation have made ourselves by our sin and life. Marriage joins to all this an indis- Annual Retreat JUNE of Himself to us, we also reveal our- who we will become when we are fully soluble exclusivity expressed in the 1 — Fr. Joseph Uecker, selves to God. We have the capacity to the person God wants us to be, a per- stable commitment to share and shape JUNE CPPS (1968) be the willing subjects (receivers) of son always intended by God and now the whole of life. Let us be honest and May 30-3 DOSA Priests’ 3 — Fr. Ruben Covos revelation or to decline such revela- redeemed by Him who saves us to acknowledge the signs that this is the Annual Retreat (2006) tion. There is no revelation without a become who we really are. case. Lovers do not see their relation- 3-5 Deacon Formation 3 — Fr. Ariel Lagunilla In marriage and family we have the ship as merely temporary" (123). 6-10 Lubbock Priests Annual (2006) subject to receive it. For there to be the Retreat 4 — Fr. Patrick Akpanobong revelation of Jesus Christ in the primary locus of this bountiful mercy However, Pope Francis then says 11 Unbound Retreat (2011) Incarnation, Mary had to be the willing of God's love. In marriage and family that "A love that is weak or infirm, 13 Heart of Mercy Prayer 4 — Fr. Prem Thumma subject of that revelation. we are bound in a covenant of mercy incapable of accepting marriage as a Group (2011) Husbands and wives, in their love that is the domestic Church, the challenge to be taken up and fought 16-19 Women’s Small Town 5 — Msgr. Robert Bush for each other, continually reveal Church in the home, the primary unit for, reborn, renewed and reinvented ACTS (1969) themselves to each other in their mari- of the parish Church. Unlike other until death, cannot sustain a great com- 20 Heart of Mercy Prayer 5 — Fr. Mario Catungal tal covenant of mercy. This self-revela- Christian communions, the Catholic mitment" (124). Our question is: Group (2004) tion includes the nuptial act, open to Church counts its membership by fam- "Why does this marital commitment 23-26 Girls Chrysalis 5 — Fr. Frank Chavez ilies, those primary communities end at death?" Jesus teaches that in 27 Heart of Mercy Prayer (1976) life, which brings children into this Group 5 — Fr. Steven Hicks (1982) world, children who are the fruit of bound to the Triune God in His heaven we will neither marry nor be 30 DOSA Staff Mass & 7 — Fr. Stephen Kennelly this marital covenant of mercy. Not covenant of mercy. given in marriage (Mt. 22:30), but He Lunch (1969) only are husband and wife the icon of What are some possible implications does not say it will be as though we 8 — Fr. Innocent Iziefule the relationship of Christ and His and extensions of the teaching of Pope had never married. We talk much JULY (2013) Church but also husband, wife, and Francis on marriage and family? What today about divorce, annulment, re- 4 Heart of Mercy Prayer 8 — Fr. Lorenzo Hatch child are the icon of the Holy Trinity we say here can be regarded as our marriage, communion for the divorced, Group (2013) and the Holy Family of Bethlehem and private opinions. We believe that what and even so-called same-sex marriage. 9 Deacon Formation 8 — Fr. Sam Matthiesen Nazareth. Father, mother, and child we say does not contradict Church But, what about a marriage on earth 11 Heart of Mercy Prayer (2013) teaching about marriage and family that reaches the fullness of its life in Group 8 — Fr. Francis Onyekozuru are meant to participate with the Holy 13-17 Small Town Teen (2013) Family in the perfect triune love who but extends it in a fruitful way. heaven? Isn't this in keeping with ACTS 15 — Msgr. Larry Droll is God Himself. Pope Francis, in his exposition of I what Pope Francis teaches about each 18 Heart of Mercy Prayer (1973) We become willing subjects of reve- Corinthians 13, writes about St. Paul's person being called to the fullness of Group 20 — Fr. Serafin Avenido lation by living the virtue of humility teaching that "love hopes all things." life in heaven, where the person's true 20 Parish Staff Development (1977) (98). Humility means forgetting about He writes: "Here hope comes more being will shine forth in all its good- Day 24 — Msgr. Maurice Voity myself in order to love others for their fully into its own, for it embraces the ness and beauty? Isn't this in keeping 21-24 Boys Chrysalis (1979) own sakes, and, in so doing, loving certainty of life after death. Each per- with his teaching that God is "mir- 25 Heart of Mercy Prayer 29 — Fr. Joseph Ogbonna myself in the proper virtuous way. son, with all his or her failings, is rored" in husband and wife, in whom Group (2002) called to the fullness of life in heaven. God impresses his own features and 26 DOSA Staff Mass & 29 — Fr. Richard Regan Humility means being able to rejoice Lunch (1985) in the good of others (109). A husband There, fully transformed by Christ's the indelible character of his love? 28-31 Women’s Walk to and wife rejoice in the unique gifts resurrection, every weakness, darkness Isn't this in keeping with the Pope's Emmaus God has given each one of them, and a and infirmity will pass away. There teaching that God makes of the hus- *** NECROLOGY mother and father rejoice in the unique the person's true being will shine forth band and wife "one single existence"? PRIESTLY ORDINATIONS JUNE gifts God has given each of their chil- in all its goodness and beauty" (#117). Isn't this in keeping with his teaching MAY 7-Rev. Ray Corr, O.P. (2005) dren. Parents help their children see Furthermore, the Pope says that "when that in marriage husband and wife are 13 — Fr. Bhaskar 8-Rev. Felix Cubelo (2007) God's unfolding plan for their lives a man and a woman celebrate the joined in "an indissoluble exclusivity"? Morugudi (1999) 13-Rev. David Espitia (2003) and never try to contradict that plan by sacrament of marriage, God is, as it And, isn't this in keeping with his 14 — Fr. Hugh Wade (1977) 17-Rev. Barry Mclean were, 'mirrored' in them; he impresses teaching that "lovers do not see their 24 — Msgr. Benedict (2012) saying, "This is not what I had planned Zientek (1958) 18-Rev. John Lucassen for you." in them his own features and the relationship as merely temporary"? 25 — Fr. Tom Barley (1991) (1993) Humility leads to joy in marriage indelible character of his love. What about marriage as a covenant of 25 — Fr. Terry Brenon 20-Deacon William Smith and family life. Joy is distinguished Marriage is the icon of God's love for mercy that is perfected in eternity? (1991) (2003) from pleasure, which can be good in us. Indeed, God is also communion: We live our married lives here in the 25 — Fr. Martin Hubbs 22-Rev. Msgr. Alvin Wilde itself but which can come and go. Joy the three Persons of the Father, the Son faith and hope that the perfection of (2012) (1996) is being taken out of ourselves into the and the Holy Spirit live eternally in our married love will be found in 26 — Msgr. James Bridges 28-Bishop Stephen A. Leven ) Triune love-life of God and His plans perfect union. And this is precisely the heaven. (1962) (1983) 27 — Fr. Charles Greenwell Page 10 MAY 2016 The Angelus

Shared Parishes

Msgr. Larry Droll, vicar general of the Diocese of San Angelo and pastor of St. Ann’s in Midland, addresses a group of about 80 priests, deacons and church work- ers, April 8 at Holy Angels Church in San Angelo. The “Shared Parishes” program being instituted in the diocese helps parishes work together. The program stresses that although we come at our faith from a variety of backgrounds we are all one in our journey to Christ.

(Photo by Jimmy Patterson)

Trust me! The four signs of trustworthiness in a person Dr. Greg Popcak is that trust is not an all or nothing propo- when they are told they have been offen- out along with their catalog of excuses. sition. It is possible to trust a person in sive. A person with impaired integrity Consistency — Even the most irre- Trust is in the news a lot these days as some areas or with some responsibilities doesn’t tend to care that he has given sponsible person manages to follow candidates from both but not in other areas. But how do you offense and becomes automatically through occasionally. Even the abusive parties present their know what those areas are and to what defensive if told he has been hurtful in person manages to say, "sorry" or do ideas and ask us to degree you can trust a person in any con- some way. Such a person gives apolo- something nice once in a while. It is our trust them to lead the text? It comes down to four factors. gies grudgingly and rarely displays the ability to count on a person to demon- nation. But the cam- humility necessary to learn from missteps. strate ability, integrity and benevolence paign raises an inter- Trust Factors: Ability, Integrity, People who behave this way can't be consistently that makes them truly trust- esting question. How Benevolence, Consistency. trusted because they don't have a well- worthy. Inconsistently demonstrating the do we ever know Psychologists believe that trustworthy developed moral sense. They tend to do qualities of a trustworthy person is the whom we can really people exhibit four qualities; ability, what they think they can to get away with same as not demonstrating them at all. trust? It can be espe- integrity, benevolence and consistency. or manage to explain away and only Evaluating a person’s ability, integrity, cially difficult to know Ability refers to a person’s capacity for repent under pressure — and then, only benevolence and consistency vs. their whether to trust some- Popcak doing what they say they are going to do. half-heartedly. People with integrity, on unreliability, defensiveness, selfishness one on a personal level — particularly if To what degree does a person only prom- the other hand, see the offenses they com- and inconsistency enables you to have a that person has hurt you in the past. ise what they are actually capable of mit against others as a mark against their clearer sense of how much you can trust Some people respond to this dilemma doing? Does that person actually follow own character, and because they are com- someone, in what contexts, and to what by trusting people too much and too through on promises or do they say all mitted to living out a particular set of val- degree. It can also give you a guide for quickly, backing off only after they've the right things in the moment only to ues, they work hard to be faithful to those dealing with those you have a hard time been wounded. Others do the opposite, fail to show up later? The answer to principles no matter what. trusting by helping you highlight why withholding trust until someone has questions like these demonstrates how Benevolence refers to the degree to and what might be done to resolve those jumped through enough hoops to prove much a person has the ability to be trust- which the person you want to trust has obstacles to trust. themselves. Obviously, neither approach ed. By contrast, untrustworthy people can shown you that he or she is willing to To learn more about whom to trust and works well. As Christians we have to bal- be charming and well-meaning, but they work for your good, especially when it how to heal broken trust, check out God ance our moral right to defend our digni- are unreliable in that they overpromise has required some sacrifice or inconven- Help Me, These People are Driving Me ty and integrity with the moral obligation or lack follow-though. ience on his or her part. A person who is Nuts! Making Peace with Difficult to reach out to others and create loving Integrity means that a person has a willing to put themselves out for your People (Crossroads). communion with the people in our lives. sufficiently well-developed value system sake is more worthy of your trust than Dr. Greg Popcak is the author of many Having a healthy perspective on trust and they tend not to give offense in the someone who isn’t. People who lack books and the host of More2Life Radio. allows us to find the response that serves first place, or they tend to self-correct benevolence could be friendly and charm- To learn more about Catholic counseling both important needs. when they do, or are at least willing to ing on the outside, but when you need and other resources, visit The most important thing to remember generously hear and respond proactively something, their selfish tendencies come CatholicCounselors.com The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 11 COMMENT On Amoris Laetitia ... (From 8) munity. Some are concerned that the pope was too pastoral and still others “Pope Francis stresses the very different challenges ment, love and even heroism, and in that he wasn't accommodating enough. families face around the world and calls on Catholics this way inviting them to take up the Here, we echo the words of the pope challenge of marriage with enthusiasm himself, as well as many church lead- to "let us make this journey as families, let us keep and courage," he writes (No. 40). ers: that it is critical to read the docu- walking together. Pope Francis clearly sees the chal- In its practicality and accessibility, ment carefully, slowly and in its entire- "Amoris Laetitia" is a highly effective ty. It is helpful, too, to remember that lenges Catholic Relief Services faces in serving document for encouraging and inspir- "Amoris Laetitia" is written fully with- ing couples and families in the trench- in the context of Catholic teaching. more than 100 countries around the world. He sees es of everyday life. The pope's goal is Kurt Martens, a professor of canon law the single mother with her children fleeing violence the mission of the church: to bring at The Catholic University of America, Christ to people and the people to spells this out explicitly. in Syria, he sees the farmer realizing that his chil- Christ. It is rich in practical advice and Perhaps the biggest loss, however, dren will not have enough food for the next season. conveys a real understanding of would be for Catholics to focus only humanity in all its successes and fail- on the controversy rather than on the He also shows us the way ahead by calling us to ings. It will be effective in offering majority of the content that is both rich support to couples and families and in and inspiring. "Amoris Laetitia" is an walk together with these families. It is beautiful that renewing and sustaining their efforts to opportunity for evangelization. Let us he calls for us to act as one human family to live as Christ intends. embrace it. Of course, "Amoris Laetitia" isn't The views or positions presented in strengthen families throughout our world." without its challenges. The eighth this or any guest editorial are those of -- Carolyn Woo, president, chapter alone, on "Accompanying, the individual publication and do not Discerning and Integrating Weakness," necessarily represent the views of Catholic Relief Services. has been the cause of much immediate Catholic News Service or of the U.S. consternation within the Catholic com- Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Speaking of Saints Sister Maria Ursula left legacy in schools, universities for girls

By Mary Lou Gibson dle of faith and vocations.” Catholic institutions were illegal then in which was to be “devoted to education Julia was 21 years old when she the Russian Empire. Catholic Online and training of children and youth and Many priests, bishops and popes have entered the Ursuline convent in Kraków, reports that the nuns were under constant service to the poorest and the oppressed guided the Catholic Church through Poland in 1886 taking the name of Maria surveillance by the secret police. among our brethren.” countless religious upheavals and nation- Ursula of Jesus. Finally, the government opposition to According to Catholic Online, Mother al calamities over the Her father, Count Antoni Halka- Catholics forced Mother Ursula to move Ursula and her nuns taught catechism in centuries. In addition, Ledóchowska had given her his blessing to Russian-controlled Finland. In 1914, at the factory town of Lodz between the the men and women in to enter the convent before he died in the beginning of World War I, Mother two world wars. She organized a religious orders nur- 1883. Ursula was expelled from Russia as an “Eucharistic Crusade” among the work- tured and strengthened Sister Maria Ursula spent the next 20 Austrian national. Catholic Online ing class children and encouraged them the faith through their years teaching in girls' schools. In 1904, reports that she fled to neutral Sweden to write to Pope Pius XI in honor of his work with people in she was elected as Mother Superior of where she organized relief efforts for war 50th anniversary of his ordination. schools, hospitals, the monastery. In Kraków, she opened a victims and charitable programs for Mother Ursula is described as a noted orphanages, homeless home for female university students Polish people living in exile. She also orator who frequently spoke before royal- shelters and other insti- which at the time was considered a new founded a monthly Catholic newspaper ty and national leaders. She defended the tutions. Gibson phenomenon. (www.catholic.org/saints) and made extensive ecumenical contacts right of Polish independence and inspired One such religious congregation that This was just the first of many projects with Lutherans in Scandinavia. others. (catholicsaints.info/saint-ursula- has served the poorest of the poor since that Mother Ursula started. Sarah It would be 1920 before she was able ledochowska/) the early 20th century is The Ursuline Gallick writes in “The Big Book of to move back to Poland with 40 other She died in Rome in early May 1939 at Sisters of the Heart of Jesus in Agony, Women Saints” that her next assignment nuns who had joined her in her mission. the age of 74. She was beatified by Pope also known as the Grey Ursulines was in St. Petersburg, Russia. With the This was the beginning of a growing John Paul II in 1983 and canonized by because of their habits. special blessing of Pope Pius X, she went Ursuline community with a distinctive him in 2003. Her feast day is May 29. The foundress of the Grey Ursulines there to found St. Catharine House, a charism and apostolate. Editor Dom Basil Since 2006, she is the patron of Sieradz, was Julia Maria Ledóchowska. She was boarding school for Polish girls. There Watkins writes in “The Book of Saints” Poland. born in Loosdorf, Austria in 1865 into an were many Catholic immigrants in St. that Mother Ursula founded her own Today, there are about 900 Grey old and distinguished Polish family. Petersburg, then a cosmopolitan, industri- Congregation, the Ursuline Sisters of the Ursuline sisters working in Poland, Italy, Matthew Bunson writes in “John Paul II's al city. Heart of Jesus in Agony. France, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Book of Saints” that the Ledóchowska Mother Ursula and her nuns wore civil Her brother, Vladimir, helped to obtain Finland, Germany, Tanzania, Belarus and family had long been hailed as the “cra- clothes in St. Petersburg because Roman Vatican approval of the new institute, the Ukraine. Page 12 MAY 2016 The Angelus The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 13 The Ordination of Father Miguel Romero, MSP Former priest in San Angelo diocese kidnapped, beaten From staff and wire reports Bishop Prasad ized." Gallela of the The archbishop appealed to law NEW DELHI — A Catholic bishop in Diocese of enforcement authorities to investigate the southern India was kidnapped and Cuddapah, India, case thoroughly and find the culprits. is pictured dur- assaulted by unknown attackers demanding a 2015 visit San Angelo Bishop Michael J. Sis said ing money, April 25. to Kansas City. the bishop’s abductors are in need of Bishop Prasad Gallela of Cuddapah Bishop Gallela, God’s mercy. was blindfolded, handcuffed and forcibly formerly a priest “Bishop Prasad Gallela is a man of taken away while he was traveling home in the Diocese of peace and respect. This incident of kid- after celebrating Mass at Karunagiri San Angelo, was napping and beating demonstrates how Shrine, reported ucanews.com. kidnapped in much the perpetrators are in need of the He said unidentified kidnappers came India and mercy of God,” said Bishop Sis. “We in two vehicles and took "me to an undis- assaulted by pray not only for Bishop Prasad's healing closed location." unknown attack- and safety, but also for the conversion of "They hit me and punched me, result- ers demanding the souls of his attackers.” money. He was ing in injuries all over my body. I did not blindfolded, Former San Angelo Bishop, the Most resist," Bishop Gallela said. "Police are handcuffed and Reverend Michael D. Pfeifer, considers trying to find those behind the incident." forcibly taken Bishop Gallela a close friend. The bishop said the kidnappers kept away while he “I got to know him about 12 years ago asking him about the financial transac- was traveling when he first came to the diocese,” tions of the diocese. They also demanded home after cele- Bishop Pfeifer told CRUX News. “I 5 million rupees (US$75,325) and said brating Mass at invited him, and he served as a priest that since "I help so many people, I Karunagiri here for several years. He was one of the should help them too," the bishop said. Shrine April 25, best priests from outside the country I "When I asked who they were, they reported ever received. He’s very capable, he’s got said they are from the police," but he ucanews.com. a great pastoral sense and he adapted (CNS photo/Joe added that police did not behave that Bollig, The very well to the culture of West Texas.” way. Leaven) Father Arockiaraj Gali, pastor at St. Early April 26, the kidnappers released Lawrence Church, and Fr. Balachandra the bishop, about 55 miles away from Nagipogu, parochial vicar at St. Elizabeth where his diocese is based. Ann Seton in Odessa, are both priests Bishop Gallela served the Diocese of incardinated in the Diocese of Cuddapah, San Angelo as a priest in Big Spring, and seminary, and was named Bishop of such a violent atrocity is perpetrated on a and are serving in the San Angelo dio- in the Miles/Rowena/Olfen cluster of Cuddapah by Pope Benedict XVI in 2008. high-ranking religious leader of a minori- cese with the permission of Bishop parishes from 2000-2004. In 2004 Bishop Archbishop Thumma Bala of ty community, who is totally dedicated to Gallela. Gallela returned to India to teach in a Hyderabad said it was "unbelievable that the service of the needy and marginal- Knights’ CEO: World must respond to Islamic State genocide actions UNITED NATIONS (CNS) — While religious freedom intensely sensitive agenda. Middle East but have haunted the lives of innocent men, in much of the Middle East is under siege and the civil A 278-page report submitted to U.S. Secretary of State women and children, he said. war in Syria seems to have no end in sight, Carl Anderson, John Kerry that was co-authored by the Knights of The Knights of Columbus has raised more than $10.5 CEO of the Knights of Columbus, and Columbus and the group In Defense of Christians in million for relief since 2014 while partnering with dioce- others called the United Nations to March outlined what it called "genocide" being carried out ses and religious organizations to provide victims with action. against religious minorities by the Islamic State. Its con- food, clothing, shelter, education and medical attention, he The U.N. plays a crucial role in secur- tents focused largely on Christians who have been mur- said. ing the future of the region, particularly dered and those indigenous communities who will or have Anderson concluded his presentation by proposing that for people being tortured, kidnapped and been displaced from their region. the U.N. take legal action against the Islamic State and killed because of their religious beliefs, On March 17, Kerry designated Islamic State actions as other terrorist groups to prevent the eradication of long- Anderson said during a daylong confer- genocide, but the United States has yet to offer a plan to standing and indigenous communities in the Middle East. ence April 28. respond. He called for punishment of the perpetrators and for the Anderson's presentation came during The U.N. estimates that more than half of Syria's pre- establishment of international standards of justice, equali- Anderson one of three panel discussions at the con- civil war population of about 22.1 million people are in ty, the rule of law and religious freedom. ference sponsored by the office of the Vatican's permanent urgent need of humanitarian assistance. Four million Sister Maria de Guadalupe Rodrigo, a member of the Father Miguel Romero, MSP, was ordained Friday, April 15, 2016, at Holy Redeemer Catholic observer to the U.N. and joined by In Defense of Syrian refugees now live outside of their homeland. Congregation of the Incarnate Word who has spent 18 Church in Odessa. Fr. Miguel, of the Missionary Servants of the Word (MSP) order, was named Christians and other organizations focusing on human Overall, at least 8 million people have been displaced years in the Middle East as a missionary, spoke of her parochial vicar of Holy Redeemer upon his ordination. Father Fernando Bonilla, also a rights abuses in the Middle East. throughout the region, human rights organizations esti- experienced living in Aleppo, Syria, a major battleground Missionary Servant of the Word, will become pastor of the parish on July 1, 2016. Presenters included people who experienced or wit- mate. in the civil war. nessed atrocities being committed against religious Anderson mentioned published threats in the Islamic "I remember the first two months when this all started, Photos by Alan P. Torre / aptorre.com minorities. State's magazine, Dabiq, specifying what the group has we all remained inside," she said. "There were constant Led by remarks from Archbishop Bernardito Auza, the called the "Crusader army" from the West. Such threats explosions and gunshots. We couldn't sleep. But these Vatican's permanent observer to the U.N., the event had an have not only been carried out in many parts of the weeks turned into months and the months into years." Page 14 MAY 2016 The Angelus

St. Margaret of Scotland Confirmation Galveston-Houston Diocese welcomes 2,240 new Catholics

By James Ramos Catholic News Service

HOUSTON — Laurel Devins couldn't help but smile when she saw Ella Claffy be confirmed by Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston during Easter Vigil Mass at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston March 26. "I was definitely enjoying watching the interaction between (Ella and Cardinal DiNardo) knowing that I would be next," Devins said. "She was very good at communicating with the cardinal, it was a nice moment to see." Nine-year-old Claffy, who was confirmed right before Devins, used one word to describe her Easter Vigil experience: "Wow." Then Claffy swayed excitedly when describing St. Illuminata, her confirmation saint: "Most of her records were burned, but she was the patron saint of Todi, Italy. In most of her icons, she's holding a book and a quill pen, and I love to read and I love to write." Angel Lopez, 10, was a bit more sheepish when describing St. Gabriel the Archangel, his confirmation saint. He deferred to his mother, asking her to help him explain Gabriel's importance. "He's nervous," she said, laughing. He said he was excited about all of this, and that he appreciated all of his friends and family who stayed through the late- WYDUSA (From 2)

the opportunity to experience World Youth Day,” Ruiz said. This year’s international World Youth Day celebration is in Krakow, Poland. The local celebrations around the world give young adults the chance to experience the global event in their communities if they are unable to attend the main event in Europe. Eleven parishioners from the Diocese of San Angelo, howev- Bishop Michael J. Sis cel- er, will be making the trip to Krakow, and will, at one point ebrated Mass at St during the WYDUSA-San Angelo event, communicate via Margaret of Scotland on video conference with those attending the local event. April 24, 2016, confirming Presenters at the San Angelo event include Dr. Robert four candidates. Twenty O’Connor, of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, who will five members from First speak on “Morality vs. Society”; Dr. James Sulliman, of Holy Methodist Church in San Angelo attended our con- Family Parish in Abilene, who will present on “Finding the firmation. After mass, Divine in Relationships”; Bonnie LaMelle Abadie, of the Bishop Sis had a ques- Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, will address the tion-and-answer session. young adults on prioritizing their life in a workshop entitled “Jesus Take the Wheel,” and Leota Roesch, MA, will present (Courtesy photos) on “I Am Catholic!” The workshops begin at 11:05 a.m. The afternoon is devoted to spiritual opportunities with the prayer of the Divine Mercy, Stations of the Cross, Sacred Space, Reconciliation and a Multi-Cultural Rosary all beginning at 2 p.m. The event will also feature many different ethnic groups that are representative of the multi-ethnicity in the diocese. “We are hoping to have people from different parishes repre- senting the Nigerian community, India, the Matachines, Hispanics, Filipinos and other ethnic groups in their native More confirmation photos, Pg. 24 dress and perhaps participate in dance during our lunchtime,” Ruiz said. The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 15 Catholic Voices Experiencing the world through the eyes of another person By Fr. Eugene Hemrick What goes on in the minds of a child when captivated? behavior is an absolute necessity. Distractions must be Catholic News Service What do they see that we adults miss? shut out and being "all there" with another is a priority. In his studies, Konrad Zacharias Lorenz, an Austrian Seeing through the eyes of another requires amazement Recently, I listened to Junlei Li, of the Fred Rogers zoologist, ethologist and ornithologist, raised the same of another's uniqueness and studying the causes behind Center for Early Learning and questions, but applied to birds. To answer how birds see that uniqueness. We must put ourselves in their shoes (or Children's Media, speak about his the world, he observed their behavior for months, trying eyes). work with children. He spoke to our to figure out what moves them. One of his conclusions It also requires reverence and a sense of awe. Unique advisory board at St. Vincent College was that something is imprinted on them from birth that behaviors are imprinted within each of us. My mother in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. I wondered causes them to act as they do. would remind us, "It's the genes that only you possess, what seeing the world through a As adults, more often than not, we see the world based they're awesome, respect them!" child's eyes would be like. The ques- on our experiences. Unfortunately, this can lead to misun- Seeing through the eyes of a child means keeping alive tion struck me as we viewed a video derstandings. To see through the eyes of another person -- a childlike fascination and allowing it to captivate and of captivated children working with be it our husband, wife, children or neighbors -- requires draw us into the mind of another. electrical conductors. an effort. We must apply it when we wonder what Christ desired I experienced the same type of won- Fr. Hemrick First, it means imagining what they see that we don't when he said, "Unless you turn and become like children, der at the Oregon Museum of Science see. Practicing wonderment requires that we stop, gaze, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven" (Mt 18:3). and Industry in Portland, Oregon, where I saw children sort through and avoid our usual way of seeing things. Is he prompting us to possess a child's eyes fascinated literally diving into their science projects. The same patience Lorenz practiced in exploring animal by God's creation and goodness?

New and modern challenges Cartoon Corner for young women and girls

By Effie Caldarola sold the need to look good, as determined by Catholic News Service fashion and commercialization. When she was older, my daughter told me that I am not one who thinks everything was better once she gave up those magazines, her body when I was young and that the younger genera- image improved considerably. She liked who she tion is doomed. Instead, I think growing up has was, not the person the glossy rag told her she always been tough. From should be. my female perspective, I Today's girls, instead of opening the occasional think it has been hard being magazine, are confronted daily by social media a girl from day one. in which being "hot" is a primary value, and hot Despite the women's has a distinctly sexual overtone. In her book, movement, more equality, Sales describes girls who have plastic surgery so less discrimination and their Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook shots more opportunity in the are better, and boys who text girls asking for workplace, I think the chal- nude photos. lenges facing girls remain, "This is the swamp they're swimming in," perhaps in different forms Caldarola Sales said. and certainly with new tech- People are different online than they are in per- nology. son. One only needs to read the anonymous Those challenges were spelled out recently in a postings in the comments section of an article to PBS interview with Nancy Jo Sales, who has know that behind a screen, people can become written a book called, "American Girls: Social vile and uncivil in short order. Media and the Secret Life of Teenagers." It's And even when the postings are not necessari- enough to make you want to hold off on buying ly anonymous, social media brings out lascivious your daughter a smartphone until she's 18. and cruel comments. Sexualization of females is Today's generation, perhaps in the past eight pretty blatant today, and social media bullying is years, has become the first to grow up with the a reality. ubiquitous phone as a main component of their Then there's the prevalence of pornography. intellectual and social lives as kids. Gone -- long gone -- are the days when it was When my oldest daughter was younger, she pretty naughty just to have a Playboy magazine sometimes subscribed to the typical teenage girl tucked beneath the mattress where you hoped magazines, the ones that were predominantly Mom would never find it. Pornography, which is about clothes, makeup and hair. These maga- increasingly full of violence toward women, is zines might offer an article or two on study habits or the risks of anorexia, but mainly they (Please See CALDAROLA/23) Page 16 MAY 2016 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics A friend’s journey home

By Moises Sandoval Father Elizondo wrote that the total- On humans aging gracefully Catholic News Service ity of life is reflected in the fiesta. "It brings the whole day into the celebra- On The By Fr. Tad Pacholczyk Our strength wanes. We get hemorrhoids and In 2006, when my book, tion of the fact that life is a gift. Life is Move: A History of the Hispanic warts and cancers and high blood pressure to be lived, appreciated and celebrat- Church in the United States It seems odd, even a bit repulsive, when and male pattern balding. , was pub- ed." For him, our celebrations, large or we encounter tales of elderly men running In the midst of it all, we can accept our lot lished, Father Virgilio small, were the precursors of the cele- after women who are young enough to be with grace and gratitude. A serene accept- Elizondo was one of bration that awaits us when we reach their granddaughters. The wheelchair-bound ance of our struggles, and even of the specif- those whose comments our eternal destiny. billionaire oil tycoon J. ic death that awaits us, is surely a great appeared on the fly- This is why his recent death, of a Howard Marshall was 89 virtue. leaf. self-inflicted gunshot, caused such years old when he married But aging gracefully is not something He wrote: profound sadness. It seemed that his the 26 year old Anna many of us tend to do well. We resist the "Sandoval's book is a vision failed him at the end. Those of Nicole Smith. He had met idea. We may cling to the fantasy of eternal real gem! Reads like a us who knew him hope that a lavish Sandoval the Playboy model and youth. Some in our society even push the diary. Such a book fiesta nonetheless awaited him, for he reality TV star in a strip notion that we shouldn’t have to put up with could have only been was an inspiration to many of us: club. Anna insisted that she the challenges of infirmity, and instead ought written by someone who has lived always cheerful, insightful, creative, really did love the old man, to receive help from the medical system so most of the journey himself and has helpful, hopeful, a joy to be with. and wasn’t in it for the we can beat a hasty retreat to the exit. By reflected critically on the tears and As I thought and prayed for Father laughter, the persistence and persever- Elizondo, a great friend of many money. Pacholczyk pushing for physician-assisted suicide, they With age should come encourage us to despise the good of our own ance, the sacrifices and the fiestas of a years, I became aware of how our wisdom. It’s appropriate lives and to reject the graces that arise from people determined to remain faithful lives were linked. In 1981, when and fitting for older men to leave behind our struggles by choosing to ingest any of a Catholics." Celebration Books in Kansas City their former ways, and no longer live and act number of doctor-prescribed poisons. I quote this only to point out the jux- published a small volume titled A like college frat boys. It’s right to expect On the other hand, by embracing our par- tapositions: tears and laughter, persist- Martyr's Message of Hope: Six growth in self-control as we mature, and to ticular path into death, and by offering up ence and perseverance, the sacrifices Homilies by Archbishop Oscar expect a more reflective and sober approach our trials, we acquire a poise of soul and and fiestas. They were the blueprint of Romero, I was invited to do a note at to life. Growing old invariably offers us the human maturity that orients us towards our his life. Recognized as the leading the beginning of the book and Father opportunity to redirect our focus, and as our destiny, a destiny in the hereafter that so Mexican-American theologian, he Elizondo wrote the one at the end. In body weakens, our mind and soul can be many seem largely oblivious to. By letting wrote that one of the gifts that his peo- 1983, when the Mexican American drawn to consider matters we may have pre- our infirmities existentially speak to us, and ple bring to the church is the ability to Cultural Center published Fronteras: celebrate life, no matter how bleak viously avoided, like death and that which coming to realize how true it is that we have SANDOVAL awaits us beyond death’s threshold. Our later no permanent dwelling here, we begin to and discouraging the times may be. (Please See /22) years can powerfully provoke us to come to grapple with that mysterious truth that heav- terms with our destiny and with higher en and home are synonymous. truths. Aging gracefully also involves recogniz- El viaje de un amigo a casa In a recent column, Father Ron Rolheiser, ing and accepting the shortening of the time quoting James Hillman, speaks to the graces ahead of us and the lengthening of the time that aging and infirmity can bring our way: behind us. Even as we achieve a much- By Moises Sandoval su vida. Elogiado como el teólogo “Why have God and nature so structured sought independence in our lives, we begin mexicoamericano más eminente, él things that as we age and mature and are to cycle back towards a renewed dependence En 2006, cuando se publicó mi escribió que uno de los dones que su finally more in control of our lives, our bod- on others, on caregivers, family and the com- libro "En movimiento: la historia de pueblo presenta a la Iglesia es la ies begin to fall apart, and we need a bevy of munity, and we may even come to the real- la Iglesia Hispana en Estados capacidad de celebrar la vida, aún doctors and medicines to keep functioning? ization that our own mind will have to be Unidos," una pequeña evaluación cuando es triste y desalentadora. Is there some wisdom in the very DNA of surrendered if dementia comes our way. All escrita por el Padre Virgilio El padre Elizondo escribió que la the life process that mandates the breakdown of this can instruct us, if we accept it with Elizondo apareció en el la hoja de totalidad de la vida se reflexiona en of physical health in late life? Hillman says, grace, in the wisdom of relinquishing our guarda. la fiesta. Incorpora el día entero en yes. There’s an innate wisdom in the process own willfulness once again like little chil- Escribió: la celebración del hecho que la vida of aging and dying: the best wines have to be dren, and returning to a humble framework "El libro de Sandoval es una joya. es un don. La vida es para vivirla, aged in cracked old barrels. The breakdown of interdependence in our shared destiny Se lee como un diario. Tal tipo de apreciarla y celebrarla. Para él, nues- of our bodies deepens, softens, and matures with others and with God. libro sólo se puede escribir por tras fiestas, grandes o pequeñas, son the soul.” alguien quien ha hecho la jornada y precursores de la celebración que I once overheard a hospital nurse chatting Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his ha reflexionado críticamente sobre anticipamos al llegar a la vida eter- with one of her patients and was caught a bit doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did las lágrimas y la risa, la persistencia na. off guard when she nonchalantly declared, post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest y la perseverancia, los sacrificios y Por eso es que su muerte de un with a little twinkle in her eye, "...when we of the diocese of Fall River, MA, and serves las fiestas de un pueblo aferrado a disparo de arma contra sí mismo get to be over 40, who doesn't have hemor- as the Director of Education at The National permanecer fiel Católicos…" suscito tan profunda tristeza. Parece rhoids?" Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. Cito esto sólo para señalar las yux- que su linda visión falló en su último The comment, I thought, reflected a See www.ncbcenter.org taposiciones: lágrimas y risa, persis- momento. Todos nosotros quien lo healthy, positive attitude toward aging and tencia y perseverancia, los sacrifi- infirmity. Unavoidably, our bodies decline. cios y las fiestas. Era el cianotipo de (Mira MOISES/22) The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 17 Catholic Voices You shall have no other gods before me By Fr. Ron Rolheiser 7) The orthodox god of strict theological and defensive. as easy to access as the nearest water tap. formulation. We also, habitually, worship a god We commit idolatry too when we make Among all the commandments, the first 8) The unholy god of our own image and whom, unconsciously, we consider to be God more monastic than domestic, when is the most difficult to keep. We are forever likeness. rather dumb and non-understanding of our we limit God’s presence to churches and worshipping strange gods. Idolatry, more 9) The overly intense, wired, god of our human complexity. Just one typical exam- holy places and do not notice God in our so even than atheism, is own neuroses. ple: I once officiated at a funeral for a kitchens. When I cannot see the wounds of what is natural to us. But 10) The anti-erotic god, anti-enjoyment, young man from a very religious family Christ in the pained face of the person how do we, believers, god of our guilt. who, while away from the church and liv- across the table from myself, then my cru- Christians, sincere Space does not allow for a commentary ing rather dissolutely, was killed acciden- cifix is more gold calf than icon. churchgoers – break the on each of these, but allow me a few, more tally while drunk. The people at his funer- Finally, we break the first commandment first commandment? general, reflections. I apologize as well al, good churchgoers all of us, were not when we make worship of God more a How do we have strange about the directness of some of the com- only grieving his loss, we were also fear- question of proper orthodoxy and correct gods before us? ments. They are not meant to be irreverent, ing for his eternal salvation. One woman doctrine than a question of letting the life The answer is not but … iconoclasm, smashing false gods, is remarked to me: “He was a good soul, of the Trinity, Love, flow through us. God, easy. The idolatry that never a gentle business. underneath it all. I knew him. If I were I suspect, prefers a loving, gracious heretic afflicts us has little to do Fr. Rolheiser In the Greek myth of Prometheus, opening the gates of heaven, I would cer- to person who is theologically correct, but with worshipping icons, humanity is punished for stealing fire from tainly let him in, despite his irresponsibili- bitter and unloving. misguided devotions, and other such the gods. In ancient mythology, the gods ty.” She was an understanding woman, but Whenever we conceive of God as some- things. It is subtler. It has to do with the have life and want to keep it for them- she was not giving God credit for the same how being defensive, exotic, anti-enjoy- false images of God to which we give selves. We, humans, are an unwanted preg- thing. All of us tend to mirror that attitude. ment, less compassionate and intelligent obeisance. Allow me to name 10 such false nancy, unwanted children. Hence every- We do not give God credit for being as than ourselves, and preferring orthodoxy to gods whom we habitually substitute for the thing we do, especially anything creative, bright as we are. compassion, we are breaking the first com- real God, Yahweh, the Father of Jesus is a threat to the divine realm. The god we worship is also, most often, mandment. Such is idolatry. Christ. We have never overcome this. By and an ascetic, an anti-erotic, celibate who does Ronald Rolheiser, a Roman Catholic 1) The arbitrary god of fear. large we still believe that God is petty, not want his children to enjoy sex and who priest and member of the Missionary 2) The insecure, defensive, threatened defensive, and threatened by us. We feel is less happy when his children are smiling Oblates of Mary Immaculate, is president god. that God likes us better when we are than when they are suffering. This god of the Oblate School of Theology in San 3) The dumb, non-understanding god. uncreative and docile, when we don’t steal sends us, as messiah, not a Jesus who Antonio. He is a community-builder, lectur- 4) The exotic god of special places. his fire. It is no accident that many creative declares that the kingdom is a wedding er and writer. His books are popular 5) The ascetic god whose Christ does not persons leave the church and that the feast, but an ascetic who never says: throughout the English-speaking world and proclaim feast. church has so often been defensive about “Weddings must increase and I must his weekly column is carried by more than 6) The emasculated god of unbalanced progress, evolution, and human creativity. decrease!” Rarely do we worship a smil- seventy newspapers worldwide. piety. The God we believe in is too threatened ing, relaxed God, who makes forgiveness www.ronrolheiser.com First thoughts on ‘Amoris Laetitia’: a great service to suffering souls

By Bishop Robert Barron as I was reading Pope Francis’s apostolic pornography, the “throwaway” society, not be viewed as a ‘yoke’ imposed on exhortation Amoris Laetitia. If I might etc. He explicitly calls to our attention the humanity, but as a ‘gift’ granted to those On a spring day about five years ago, make bold to summarize a complex 264- teaching of Pope Paul VI in Humanae who are joined in marriage...” (62). when I was rector of Mundelein page document, I would say that Pope Vitae regarding the essential connection In a particularly affecting section of the Seminary, Francis Cardinal George spoke Francis wants the truths regarding mar- between the unitive and the procreative exhortation, Pope Francis interprets the to the assembled stu- riage, sexuality, and family to be unam- dimensions of conjugal love (80). famous hymn to love in Paul’s first letter dent body. He con- biguously declared, but that he also wants Moreover, he approvingly cites the con- to the Corinthians (90-119). Following the gratulated those the Church’s ministers to reach out in sensus of the recent Synod on the Family great missionary Apostle, he argues that proudly orthodox mercy and compassion to those who that homosexual relationships cannot be love is not primarily a feeling (94), but seminarians for their struggle to incarnate those truths in their considered even vaguely analogous to rather a commitment of the will to do devotion to the dog- lives. what the Church means by marriage some pretty definite and challenging matic and moral In regard to the moral objectivities of (251). He is especially strong in his con- things: to be patient, to bear with one truths proposed by marriage, the Pope is bracingly clear. He demnation of ideologies that dictate that another, to put away envy and rivalry, the Church, but he unhesitatingly puts forward the Church’s gender is merely a social construct and ceaselessly to hope. In the tones of grand- also offered some understanding that authentic marriage is can be changed or manipulated according fatherly pastor, Francis instructs couples pointed pastoral between a man and a woman, who have to our choice (56). Such moves are tanta- entering into marriage that love, in this advice. He said that it Bishop Barron committed themselves to one another in mount, he argues, to forgetting the right dense and demanding sense of the term, is insufficient simply to drop the truth on permanent fidelity, expressing their mutu- relationship between creature and Creator. must be at the heart of their relationship. I people and then smugly walk away. al love and openness to children, and Finally, any doubt regarding the Pope’s frankly think that this portion of Amoris Rather, he insisted, you must accompany abiding as a sacrament of Christ’s love for attitude toward the permanence of mar- Laetitia should be required reading for those you have instructed, committing his Church (52, 71). He bemoans any riage is dispelled as clearly and directly as those in pre-Cana other similar marriage yourself to helping them integrate the number of threats to this ideal, including possible: “The indissolubility of mar- preparation programs in the Catholic truth that you have shared. I thought of moral relativism, a pervasive cultural nar- riage—‘what God has joined together, let this intervention by the late Cardinal often cissism, the ideology of self-invention, no man put asunder’ (Mt 19:6) —should (Please See BARRON/23) Page 18 MAY 2016 The Angelus Funeral Mass years after death; Mercy for priests

By Fr. Kenneth Doyle father-in-law even now, 10 years after his death. are well-known and often their names have been list- Catholic News Service Technically, I suppose, it would be called a memorial ed on diocesan websites.) (Wynantskill, New York) Mass, but in most respects it would be similar to a Q. You noted in a recent column that the Mass is funeral Mass, except that the body would not be present. A. In a 2002 meeting in Dallas, the U.S. Catholic bish- "the most powerful prayer that can be offered on a (And these days, with cremations becoming more fre- ops fashioned the Charter for the Protection of Children deceased person's behalf." That comment brought quent, that is already the case at many funeral Masses.) and Young People and adopted a policy of "zero toler- back a wave of sorrow for my wife I would suggest that you contact your family's pastor ance." In other words, any cleric found to have sexually and me. Ten years ago, her father and see if he would be willing to celebrate a separate, abused a minor could never again be allowed to func- died after a lengthy and progres- special Mass for your father-in-law. (In other words, tion in public ministry. sive illness. Due to the fact that we you would not simply add the deceased's name to the Having been present at that meeting, I recall that there were living out of state at the time, other intentions at one of the regularly scheduled parish were a few bishops who spoke in favor of a more and worsened by some unresolved Masses.) nuanced approach. There are varying levels of gravity, hard feelings toward their father You may want to announce the Mass in a newspaper they argued, and each case should be weighed separate- by other surviving family mem- notice or by contacting friends and family directly. ly, especially when a single offense had occurred many bers, Dad was shuttled into a Perhaps you would want to call it an anniversary memo- years before, rehabilitative therapy had taken place and grave at a veterans' cemetery rial Mass for your loved one. At the Mass, you might a man had functioned productively and flawlessly in before my wife and I could inter- Doyle consider having a small table with your father-in-law's ministry ever since. vene. picture and a bouquet of flowers. (That table could be But the will of the majority prevailed. Zero tolerance Despite the fact that he was a lifelong practicing placed either where people first enter the church or, if was set in place and that policy continues in the church Catholic, he was buried without even a public wake, the priest is willing, in front near the altar where the today. If you are asking whether someone who has been and worse still, without the Catholic funeral Mass he casket would ordinarily go.) credibly accused will ever be allowed back into min- richly deserved. So my question is this: Can he still Your question, and your sadness and lingering regret, istry, I believe that to be unlikely. have a full funeral Mass, not just a memorial Mass, remind me how important it is, at the time of a death, The mercy to which we are called as Christians oblig- celebrated in his name even though he is already for a family to set aside differences and join in planning es us, however, to offer forgiveness to those men who buried, even without the presence of his remains? (If funeral rites that best honor the deceased and respect his have been removed, many of whom helped a fair num- so, I would contact our family's original pastor.) wishes. Clearly, your father-in-law would have wanted a ber of people during their years in ministry and deeply It would be an opportunity for Dad's soul to enjoy funeral Mass. regret the hurt and the harm they caused to individuals a proper requiem, and it would also allow close fami- and to the church. ly and longtime friends a chance to prayerfully ask Q. On the third anniversary of his election to the God's graces on Dad's behalf, an opportunity they papacy, Pope Francis once again stressed the critical Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at were deprived of (and shocked by) at the time of his importance for followers of Christ to show mercy. [email protected] and 40 Hopewell St. Albany, passing. (City of origin withheld) How would that attitude manifest itself toward those N.Y. 12208. priests dismissed from their ministry because they A. Yes, you could have a Mass celebrated for your were found guilty of some sexual crime? (These men Always be firm in your convictions ... but always be nice about it

By Karen Osborne your faith is exactly that: It's yours. It for everyone; neither is a state school. indefensible. You don't have to defend Catholic News Service makes you who you are. Embrace it. Share Your place is in an environment where your choice in friends, but you should it. Use the challenges you face to make it you're excited by the opportunities that always be aware of what others see. Stand up for yourself. You're told it's stronger. Don't let anyone take it away surround you. They'll see flaws you miss. We all have important. You're told if from you because their beliefs are differ- Be passionate in all your beliefs, espe- them. Always embrace friendship, but be you don't do it, you ent. cially your political ones. As much as cautious before putting trust at risk. shouldn't expect anyone Never feel obligated to defend your some people believe there is one clear, cor- If you choose to bypass higher education else to do it for you. friends or significant other. You pick the rect path, chances are that they're wrong, or choose an unexpected school, listen to You're told it's neces- people closest to you because they have no matter what that path may be. Very lit- what's said in response to your choice. Be sary so people don't meaning to you. They make you complete tle in life is black and white. true to yourself, but use the counsel of oth- walk all over you. in ways you never would be if you were Finally, never feel obligated to defend ers to strengthen your confidence in the Everything you're told entirely on your own. Others don't have to your personal needs. Sometimes we need choice you made. Use their perspective as is correct. But there's like those who surround you, but they do companionship. Sometimes we want to be you continue to seek your truth. more to consider. have to accept them. If they don't, they're left alone. These needs should be respect- Don't be so passionate in your beliefs Part of knowing when Osborne saying they don't truly accept you. ed, just as we respect others. If you need to that you're blind to those with different to stand up for yourself Get an education that matches your pas- get away, find a way to do it. Don't feel perspectives. Right is right, but dismissing means knowing when you shouldn't have sions. If you decide higher education isn't guilty. You'll feel better and be a better part the differing views of others who are to defend yourself. There are some things a good fit, don't let anyone convince you of your community if you listen to your- equally as passionate is wrong. in life that require no defense. You should- otherwise. I know many people who self. Some things in life require no defense. n't defend yourself when those topics arise. attended college out of obligation. Few While these areas of life require no Be true to your beliefs and considerate to First and foremost, there is no need to stayed long enough to earn a degree. If defense, that doesn't mean you shouldn't others while doing so, and you'll be show- defend your religious beliefs. Whether you choose college, pick a school where listen when people ask questions about the ing who you truly are, not through con- you're devout or more casual in your faith, you feel comfortable. The Ivy League isn't choices you make. Doing that would be frontation but by example. The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 19 OBISPO

(Para 3) puede plantear como un derecho sobre el de nulidad de los matrimonios. Estas Papa Francisco dice que todas las familias propio cuerpo la posibilidad de tomar fueron promulgadas por todo el mundo el necesitan crecer y madurar constante- gracia de Dios para vivir su matrimonio. decisiones con respecto a esa vida, que es 8 de diciembre de 2015. mente en su capacidad de amar. El docu- ¿Qué es lo que el documento no hace? No un fin en sí misma y que nunca puede ser Capítulo Siete es acerca de la crianza de mento concluye con esta hermosa oración se rinde en el matrimonio. No expresa “un objeto de dominio” de otro ser los niños, el cual incluye la formación a la Santa Familia: desesperanza o desamparo al enfrentarse a humano.” (83) ética, la disciplina adecuada, transmisión “Jesús, María y José, en ustedes contem- fallas morales. No está solo tratando de Los tres capítulos que yo más recomiendo de la fe, y la educación sexual. En este plamos el esplendor del amor verdadero; a estar a la moda o “hip”. No está denun- a las parejas casadas y para aquellos que capítulo, el Papa es a la vez práctico y ustedes nos dirigimos con confianza. ciando los males de la época actual o se preparan para casarse son los Capítulos lleno de esperanza. A medida que describe Santa Familia de Nazaret, hagan que nues- denunciando a un mundo decadente. No Cuatro, Cinco y Siete. la vida de la familia, incluso menciona la tras familias, también, puedan ser lugares trata de imponer normas por pura autori- Capítulo Cuatro es sobre el amor en el frustración de la escena común de una de comunión y oración, escuelas auténti- dad. No es un tratado teológico abstracto matrimonio. Comienza con una larga familia estando juntos en la mesa de la cas del Evangelio y las pequeñas iglesias sobre el ideal del matrimonio. No declara explicación del pasaje de San Pablo en el cena, mientras que todo el mundo está en domésticas. Santa Familia de Nazaret, que un cambio en nuestras doctrinas Católicas amor en I Corintios 13:4-7. Este capítulo sus teléfonos celulares. nunca más haya en las familias episodios fundamentales. es como ninguna que he visto en ningún Algunos pueden recordar que gran parte de violencia, de cerrazón y división; que Amoris Laetitia presenta los temas prin- documento papal, entrando profundamente de la controversia en los medios de comu- quien haya sido herido o escandalizado cipales del matrimonio, la sexualidad y la en el mundo emocional de los cónyuges. nicación seculares que rodea el Sínodo de sea pronto consolado y curado. Santa vida familiar en una celebración inspi- Presenta la dimensión erótica del amor los Obispos, sobre todo en octubre de Familia de Nazaret, hagan tomar concien- rador del camino del amor. Los siguientes humano como un regalo de Dios. 2014, era tocante a la recepción de la cia a todos del carácter sagrado e invio- son algunos puntos sobresalientes del doc- El Papa Francisco nos ayuda a compren- Santa Comunión por los Católicos divorci- lable de la familia, y de su belleza en el umento. der la naturaleza de la alegría en el matri- ados que se han vuelto a casar civilmente. proyecto de Dios. Jesús, María y José, Capítulo Uno ofrece la base bíblica para monio. Esta alegría abarca tanto las expe- Capítulo Ocho de Amoris Laetitia trata amablemente escuchen nuestra oración el matrimonio y la familia. Habla del riencias positivas y negativas: una “com- sobre este tema a través de una extensa “plan divino primordial” para el matrimo- binación de gozos y de esfuerzos, de ten- exposición de cómo las reglas generales nio. Abarca un claro entendimiento de que siones y de descanso, de sufrimientos y de no se pueden aplicar en absoluto a todas el matrimonio es entre un hombre y una liberaciones, de satisfacciones y de las situaciones particulares. EDICTAL SUMMONS mujer, abierto a los niños, fiel, basado en búsquedas, de molestias y de placeres.” En este capítulo, el Papa Francisco dice el amor, y un compromiso por toda la (126) El Santo Padre dice que el famoso que estas parejas son parte de la Iglesia. April 26, 2016 vida. pasaje en Efesios 15:6 (“esposas, estén Ellos no están excomulgados. Él aplica las CASE: BROWDER -- BROWN Capítulo Dos considera la situación actual sujetas a sus esposos”) es realmente acer- enseñanzas morales de SantoTomás de NO.: SO/16/17 de las familias. El Papa Francisco procura ca del don recíproco de sí mismo de mari- Aquino, así como la “ley de gradualidad” basarse en la realidad al hacer una lista de do y mujer. Él dice que la mujer nunca ha que se encuentra en las enseñanzas del The Tribunal Office of the Catholic los muchos desafíos que enfrentan las de ser considerada como una esclava o Papa Juan Pablo II. Los pastores tienen Diocese of San Angelo is seeking Lauren familias, como la migración, la “cultura de sirvienta del marido. (156) que hacer todo lo posible para ayudar a las Elizabeth Brown. lo provisional”, la mentalidad antinatal- Capítulo Cinco trata de la fecundidad personas en estas situaciones para encon- You are hereby summoned to appear ista, la falta de vivienda, la pornografía, la del amor y de recibir la nueva vida. Aquí trar una manera de ser incluidos activa- before the Tribunal of the Catholic violencia contra las mujeres, el abuso de el Papa muestra que la familia incluye mente en la vida de la comunidad de fe. Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Ford menores, la falta de respeto por los de algo más que la familia tradicional Tenemos que mostrar comprensión al Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or edad avanzada, y el individualismo ram- “nuclear”; también incluye una red más encararnos a circunstancias excepcionales, before the 26th day of April 2016, to pante. amplia de muchas relaciones. al mismo tiempo, nunca ocultar la luz del answer to the Petition of Chase Carroll También incluye una sección sobre la Capítulo Seis es especialmente útil para ideal más pleno ni proponer menos que lo Browder, now introduced before the “ideología de género” (56), en la que se los ministros pastorales en las iglesias. que Jesús ofrece al ser humano. (307) muestra en desacuerdo con una ideología Propone métodos mejorados para la for- Al presentar la “lógica de la misericor- Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, que trata de la identidad personal total- mación de familias saludables, especial- dia pastoral,” el Papa Francisco también “Chase Browder and Lauren Brown, mente independiente de la diferencia mente la preparación de las parejas com- nos advierte que la excepción no hace la Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of biológica entre hombre y mujer. Dice que prometidas y el ministerio a las parejas en regla. Él dice: “Si alguien ostenta un peca- Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as somos criaturas, no el Creador: “Lo crea- sus primeros años de matrimonio. El doc- do objetivo como si fuera parte del ideal Case: BROWDER -- BROWN; Protocol do nos precede y debe ser recibido como umento establece que la enseñanza de la Cristiano, o quiere imponer algo diferente No.: SO/16/17, on the Tribunal Docket of don.” (56) Dice que tenemos que aceptar y Iglesia sigue siendo clara que el matrimo- a lo que enseña la Iglesia, no puede pre- the Diocese of San Angelo. respetar nuestra humanidad como ha sido nio es entre un hombre y una mujer, y las tender dar catequesis o predicar a otros.” You may communicate with the creada. uniones homosexuales no se pueden colo- (297) Tribunal in person or in writing. Failure Capítulo Tres ofrece los elementos cen- car en el mismo nivel que el matrimonio Capítulo Ocho se ha convertido en un to communicate within the prescribed trales de la enseñanza Católica clásica Cristiano. Aun así, párrafo 250 dice, tema de intensa discusión en los medios period of time will be considered your sobre el matrimonio y la familia. El Papa “Deseamos ante todo reiterar que toda per- de comunicación social. Continuará siendo consent for the Tribunal to continue its Francisco hace hincapié en el matrimonio sona, independientemente de su tendencia explorado por los teólogos y pastores proceedings in the above-named case. como un compromiso de por vida y fiel, la sexual, ha de ser respetada en su dignidad durante muchos años. Con el tiempo, los Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of perspectiva Católica del matrimonio como y acogida con respeto, procurando evitar obispos y los sacerdotes estarán en una San Angelo on the 26th day of April un sacramento, el derecho a la vida, y la ‘todo signo de discriminación injusta’ y mejor posición para ofrecer una ori- 2016. importancia de la educación de los niños. particularmente cualquier forma de agre- entación más concreta para el discern- Él dice: “Tan grande el valor de una vida sión y violencia.” imiento personal madura, que se denomina Rev. Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div., humana, y es tan inalienable el derecho a En este capítulo, el Papa Francisco tam- en el presente capítulo. JCL la vida del niño inocente que crece en el bién hace referencia a sus recientes refor- Capítulo Nueve habla de la espirituali- seno de su madre, que de ningún modo se mas de los procedimientos de declaración dad del matrimonio y de la familia. El Judicial Vicar Page 20 MAY 2016 The Angelus

The West Texas Angelus BISHOP Official Newspaper of the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas (From 3) It begins with a long explanation of St. Synod of Bishops, particularly in October POSTMASTER: Send all address Paul’s passage on love in I Corinthians 13:4- 2014, was about the reception of Holy changes to: fashionable or “hip.” It is not decrying the 7. This chapter is like none I have ever seen Communion by Catholics who are divorced WEST TEXAS ANGELUS evils of the present age or denouncing a in any papal document, entering deeply into and civilly remarried. Chapter Eight of P.O. Box 1829 decadent world. It is not trying to impose the emotional world of the spouses. It pres- Amoris Laetitia takes on this issue through a SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 rules by sheer authority. It is not an abstract ents the erotic dimension of human love as a lengthy exposition of how general rules can- ______theological treatise on the ideal of marriage. gift from God. not apply absolutely to all particular situa- It does not declare a change in our funda- Pope Francis helps us to understand the tions. Bishop Michael J. Sis mental Catholic doctrines. nature of joy in marriage. This joy In this chapter, Pope Francis says that Publisher Amoris Laetitia presents the major themes embraces both positive and negative experi- these couples are part of the Church. They of marriage, sexuality, and family life in an ences: a “mixture of enjoyment and strug- are not excommunicated. He applies the Jimmy Patterson inspirational celebration of the way of love. gles, tensions and repose, pain and relief, moral teachings of Thomas Aquinas as well Media Relations Director The following are some highlights from the satisfactions and longings, annoyances and as the “law of gradualness” found in the Editor document. pleasures.” (126) The Holy Father says that teachings of Pope John Paul II. Pastors need Chapter One offers the biblical basis for the famous passage in Ephesians 15:6 to do everything possible to help people in Member marriage and family. It speaks of the “pri- (“wives, be submissive to your husbands”) these situations to find a way to be included Catholic News Service mordial divine plan” for marriage. It clearly is really about the reciprocal self-gift of hus- actively in the life of the faith community. Catholic Press Association embraces an understanding of marriage that band and wife. He says that the wife should We need to show understanding in the face Texas Catholic News is between a man and a woman, open to never be regarded as a slave or servant of of exceptional circumstances, while never Published the first Monday follow- children, faithful, loving, and a lifelong the husband. (156) dimming the light of the higher ideal, and ing the 1st Saturday of each month commitment. Chapter Five is about the fruitfulness of never proposing less of what Jesus offers to and delivered to all registered Chapter Two considers the current situa- love and welcoming new life. Here, the the human being. (307) parishioners in the San Angelo tion of families. Pope Francis seeks to be pope shows that family includes more than As he presents the “logic of pastoral Diocese. grounded in reality as he lists the many just the traditional “nuclear” family; it also mercy,” Pope Francis also cautions us that Subscription rate for all others: challenges faced by families, including includes a wider network of many relation- the exception does not make the rule. He $10 per year migration, the “culture of the provisional,” ships. says, “If someone flaunts an objective sin as THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID the anti-birth mentality, lack of housing, Chapter Six is especially useful for pas- if it were part of the Christian ideal, or AT SAN ANGELO, TEXAS pornography, violence against women, abuse toral ministers in churches. It proposes wants to impose something other than what Printed by the of minors, lack of respect for the elderly, improved methods for the formation of the Church teaches, he or she can in no way San Angelo Standard Times and rampant individualism. healthy families, especially the preparation presume to teach or preach to others.” (297) A Scripps-Howard Company He also includes a section on “gender ide- of engaged couples and ministry to couples Chapter Eight has become the topic of ology” (paragragh 56), where he expresses in their early years of marriage. The docu- much heated discussion in the social media. disagreement with an ideology that tries to ment states that Church teaching remains It will continue to be explored by theolo- Submissions: separate completely personal identity from clear that marriage is between a man and a gians and pastors for many years. With Story suggestions, calendar items, the biological difference between male and woman, and homosexual unions cannot be time, bishops and priests will be in a better parish briefs and all other female. He says that we are creatures, not placed on the same level as Christian mar- position to offer more concrete guidance for submissions should be emailed to the Creator: “Creation is prior to us and riage. Even so, paragraph 250 states, “We the mature personal discernment that is Jpatterson@ must be received as a gift.” (56) He says we would like before all else to reaffirm that called for in this chapter. sanangelodiocese.org need to accept and respect our humanity as every person, regardless of sexual orienta- Chapter Nine speaks of the spirituality of COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: it was created. tion, ought to be respected in his or her dig- marriage and the family. Pope Francis says Third Friday of every month. Chapter Three offers the central elements nity and treated with consideration, while that all families need constantly to grow and Photos should be in jpeg format. of classic Catholic teaching on marriage and ‘every sign of unjust discrimination’ is to be mature in the ability to love. The document the family. Pope Francis emphasizes mar- carefully avoided, particularly any form of concludes with this beautiful prayer to the Letters to the editor are welcome, riage as a lifelong and faithful commitment, aggression and violence.” Holy Family: and should be emailed to the Catholic view of marriage as a sacra- In this chapter, Pope Francis also makes “Jesus, Mary and Joseph, in you we con- Jpatterson@ ment, the right to life, and the importance of reference to his recent reforms of the proce- template the splendor of true love; to you sanangelodiocese.org. the upbringing of children. dures for the declaration of nullity of mar- we turn with trust. Holy Family of Nazareth, Letters to the editor are printed at He says, “So great is the value of a human riages. These were enacted around the grant that our families, too, may be places of the discretion of the editor and life, and so inalienable the right to life of an world on December 8, 2015. communion and prayer, authentic schools of identities of the writer are subject innocent child growing in the mother’s Chapter Seven is about the raising of the Gospel and small domestic churches. to verification. Please include womb, that no alleged right to one’s own children, which includes ethical formation, Holy Family of Nazareth, may families name, address and phone number body can justify a decision to terminate that proper discipline, passing on the faith, and never again experience violence, rejection when submitting letters. life, which is an end in itself and which can sex education. In this chapter, the pope is and division; may all who have been hurt or never be considered the ‘property’ of anoth- both practical and hopeful. As he describes scandalized find ready comfort and healing. er human being.” (83) family life, he even mentions the frustration Holy Family of Nazareth, make us once The three chapters that I would most rec- of the common scene of a family being more mindful of the sacredness and inviola- ommend to married couples and to those together at the dinner table while everyone bility of the family, and its beauty in God’s who are preparing to marry are Chapters is on their cell phones. plan. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, graciously Four, Five, and Seven. Some may recall that much of the contro- hear our prayer. Amen.” Chapter Four is about love in marriage. versy in the secular media surrounding the The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 21 BURKE EE (From 6) other and learned several new things 4We administer the sacrament to each (From 6) about their fiancé. other by daily acts of loving, serving and from Friday night when the retreat starts On virtually every Engaged Encounter forgiving. about much more swiftly. So, the ordinary to Sunday Mass, which concludes the weekend, we have couples who are civil- 4By being life-giving to each other we process has been the most practiced process retreat. ly married. They may even have children find unity. since December 8, 2015. The team shares several talks through- from that marriage. But we often hear As a married couple, it is our responsi- In Pope Francis' release today of Amoris out the weekend. Topics include these same couples say they have a long- bility to help each other get to Heaven Laetitia, we see a consistent movement in “Becoming a Family,” “Managing ing to have their marriage blessed in the and his responsibility to help me get to the same direction of Mitis Iudex. Pope Conflict,” “Stewardship,” “Forgiveness,” Church. So like other engaged couples, Heaven. Francis is exhorting his bishops, priests and “Communication,” “Decisions in they go to a marriage prep program. It is Finally, always remember: The wedding laity to help reintegrate swiftly displaced Marriage,” “Unity” and “The Sacrament beautiful to hear how important it is to is for a day, but the marriage is for a life- members of the Church. With this new of Marriage.” In the talks we share our them to have their marriage blessed. By time. apostolic exhortation, Pope Francis recog- story on how we have dealt with many having their union convalidated by the nizes God's divine plan that men and issues in our married life. We are present Church, they are an inspiration to us and Annual collection for women enter marriage for the whole of their for the engaged couples as role models to all the couples on the retreat. lives. If this couple suffers a divorce, they and tell them we are not experts in mar- Honduran dioceses need to be accompanied back into the fold riage but have experiences to share. We How we view marriage as a Sacrament The “Hermanamiento” (partnership) among of our Church sooner rather than later. By talk with the couples about the impor- The differences between a contract and the Dioceses of San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba, means of simplifying tribunal processes, tance of praying together as a couple and a marriage covenant are clear: Tyler, and San Angelo is in its 15th year! The Pope Francis gave to bishops throughout the a family. With a marriage contract, either party special collection taken up in the Diocese of world much more tangible means to reach San Angelo for our Honduran partners is a Getting married in the Church requires can cancel, the couple sets the conditions couple of years older than that; it began in out to God's people and welcome them engaged couples to prepare by taking an for their marriage and they create a sort of 1999 as a response to Hurricane Mitch. The home. approved marriage prep program. After “I will love you if you love me,” 50/50 hurricane is a distant memory now; but the Overall, nothing has changed in the various meetings with a priest, the contract. relationship among the dioceses is alive and process of annulments. The principles have engaged couple will sign up for the A marriage covenant is binding, irrevo- well. remained the same and the Catholic canoni- Sponsored Couple Program, a Pre-Cana cable and permanent. It is a commitment Our annual special collection will take place cal requirements for divorced men and on the weekend of July 17, 2016. The collec- Program, or the Engaged Encounter to love as God loves – freely, totally, tion was formerly held in November, but the women who have remarried are the same. Retreat weekend. faithfully, and open to life. schedule has been changed. What has changed is that justice is upheld Several couples have admitted that We need covenant love to sustain us. The collection is divided between the because it is meted out more swiftly since when they first arrived on Friday, they Some brief characteristics of the Diocese of San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba. December 8. What Mitis Iudex and Amoris were not excited about spending the Sacrament of Matrimony: Parishes in partnership share their collection Laetitia trumpet is that displaced men and weekend preparing for marriage, but as 4 Our couple love is an outward sign of directly with their partner parish. The diocese women can and should participate actively and parishes use the income for various reli- the weekend began to unfold, they were matrimony. gious and social service needs. They in our Church because they belong with us. thrilled to have the time together and 4 We are a visible sign of God’s pres- express their gratitude for the generosity of found they needed this time with each ence and His love for us. the people of the Diocese of San Angelo. AWARDS (From 2) a leader. It’s something (good) to wake Purtell, adding, “It’s an honor. We’re Sady Cady, St. Mary, Brownwood up to.” pretty proud of him.” Juana Gonzalez, St. Mary, Brownwood because this is a diocesan endeavor.” Matthew’s church involvement Terry Dulin, Sacred Heart, Coleman Diocesan Awards Banquet Liz Jefferson, Sacred Heart, Coleman Twenty-two adults from Andrews, Big includes being an altar server and attend- Youth Recipients Sylvia Carrillo, St. Peter, Mertzon Lake, Big Spring, Brownwood, Coleman, ing church PIM each Sunday, as well as Larissa Cabrera, Our Lady of Lourdes, Mari Maldonado, San Miguel Arcangel, Mertzon, Midland, Miles, Odessa, San CDC every weekend, except when he has Andrews Midland Angelo, Stanton, Sweetwater and Wall Boy Scout campouts. Samantha Sosa, St. Margaret, Big Lake Michele Halfmann, St. Thomas, Miles were recognized. Sixteen youth also were “I’m in all pre-AP classes” at school, Kappi Villarreal, Holy Trinity, Big Spring Larry Cortez, St. Joseph, Odessa honored; those students came from Matthew said. “I’m in band. I’m in a lot John Christian Allen, St. Mary, Brownwood Gloria Medina, St. Joseph, Odessa Tyler Ransberger, Sacred Heart, Coleman Mary Rivas, St. Joseph, Odessa Andrews, Big Lake, Big Spring, of athletic activities. In Boy Scouts I usu- S. Elizabeth Villegas OND, St. Joseph, Brownwood, Coleman, Garden City, ally do (volunteer) cleanups and volun- Seth Miller, St. Lawrence, Garden City Oscar Narvaez, St. Peter, Mertzon Odessa Mertzon, Midland, Miles, Odessa, San teer work.” Adrian Jimenez, San Miguel Arcangel, Sally Hagen, Goodfellow AFB, San Angelo Angelo, Stanton, Sweetwater and Wall. Matthew takes seriously the Boy Scout Midland Angela Lopez, St. Joseph, San Angelo At just 13, Matthew Purtell of San oath, which instructs, in part, to always Daniel Lander, St. Ann, Midland Elizabeth Martinez, St. Joseph, San Angelo Angelo was one of the youngest youth do one’s best. Villaruel Anahi, St. Thomas, Miles Amparo Pena, St. Joseph, San Angelo Guerrero, Priscilla, St. Joseph, Odessa Senaida Garza, St. Joseph, Stanton recognized. The Glenn Middle School “You’ve always gotta try to do the best Ray Longoria, Holy Spirit, Sweetwater student attends Our Lady of Peace you can do, go above and beyond,” he Matthew Purtell, Goodfellow AFB, San Angelo Dcn. Dan Shannahan, St. Ambrose, Wall Catholic Community at Goodfellow Air said. Robert Garcia, St. Joseph, San Angelo Companion on the Journey Award (adults) Force Base. Asked if they tried to instill communi- Adriana Isabel Muniz, St. Joseph, Stanton Matthew said he was surprised to ty involvement in Matthew, his parents Daniel Avila, Holy Spirit, Sweetwater Sr. Elizabeth Villegas, OND Paige Kubenka, St. Ambrose, Wall Larry Cortez from St. Joseph/St. Anthony, receive an award at the reception. Jeff and Theresa Purtell said he comes by Odessa. “I thought I was going to go up against it naturally. “He’s done a lot on his own,” Adult Recipients Pat Alaniz, Our Lady of Lourdes, Andrews everybody else for an award,” he said, Theresa Purtell said. “He wants to be Timothy Award (youth) Sarah Rodriguez, St. Margaret, Big Lake adding that the recognition “feels very (involved) in everything.” Trish Soto, St. Margaret, Big Lake Tyler Ransberger from Sacred Heart, good. It makes me think I’m going to be “We feel like we’re taxis,” joked Jeff Merlinda Moron, Holy Trinity, Big Spring Coleman. Page 22 MAY 2016 The Angelus POPE Bishop Richard J. Malone of Buffalo, Helen Alvare, professor of law at the this into pastoral application now,'" he (From 6) New York, chairman of the bishops' Antonin Scalia Law School at George said. stance and discuss with people how they Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family, Mason University, who was the third Grabowski, who with his wife, Claire, can discern God's teaching for their lives. Life and Youth, said the exhortation news conference participant, described lead a marriage ministry for couples in The pope points to "dialogue, which invites the church to heal wounds that the document as balancing the natural their parish, St. Ignatius in Ijamsville, requires both speaking and listening, and families experience because of poverty, longing for marriage in society with a Maryland, sees the need for such pro- discerning to help people see what their human trafficking, immigration, domestic "raw appreciation for how bad the situa- grams emerging from the exhortation. next step is" as key to his call for mercy, violence and pornography. tion can be on the ground." "We need to stop seeing marriage forma- Archbishop Kurtz, a member of both "We also have room to grow and The pope acknowledges mispercep- tion as ending at the wedding," he said. synods, said in an interview after partici- improve and we welcome the pope's tions about church teaching on sex, that The pope's exhortation discusses how pating in an online news conference at encouragement for the renewed witness some perceive marriage as evil so avoid the church can be "honest, realistic and USCCB headquarters. to the truth and beauty of marriage of a it, the fear of raising children, and ideas creative" in response to the needs of fam- The archbishop said the pope is more tender closeness and families who that marriage has become an "empty ritu- ilies, explained Jesuit Father Allan Deck, attempting to help people encounter are experiencing real difficulties," Bishop al," Alvare said. distinguished scholar in pastoral theology Jesus and through that encounter feel the Malone said. She also identified the pope's deep con- and Latino Studies at Loyola Marymount love of God. "There is that sense of Both prelates said the exhortation cerns for children, whose rights are often University. being very intentional because we carry builds on the teaching of the Second overlooked because of the challenges He said the pope's emphasis on the with us the capacity to walk with people Vatican Council as well as Pope Francis' facing many families. need to be open to ongoing discussion to Christ. And he's saying husbands and post-conciliar successors, Blessed Paul While the exhortation upholds church within the church and its response to wives, you also have that potential," VI, St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict teaching on the sanctity of marriage and "real families" would serve all families. Archbishop Kurtz said. XVI and invites ministers to welcome cites the importance of family life to the "He shows great sensitivity on the vari- "We all share that responsibility to con- people who may have turned away from church, it calls people to do more than ous positions people have in the church," version about what does it mean to deep- the church because they feared their sta- simply reiterate that teaching, but to put Father Deck told CNS. "He's not moving en our sense and let Christ shine more tus -- as single parents or being in same- it into "pastoral motion," Catholic leaders back from his conviction that mercy and clearly through so people don't see the sex relationships, or being divorced and told Catholic News Service. the attitudes that flow from mercy are at rule (of the church), they see the person civilly remarried -- would mean they are John Grabowski, associate professor of the foundation of the way the church of Jesus coming through," he explained. unwelcome in the church. moral theology and ethics at The needs to proceed because those are the During the news conference, "I think the call is for the whole Catholic University of America and an qualities that we see in God." Archbishop Kurtz described the exhorta- church, the bishops, the priests, the lay expert tapped to attend last fall's Synod Father Deck added that he sees the tion as a "love letter to families" that leadership, but also each family to be of Bishops on the family, said the docu- influence of the pope's Latin American invites all people to "never stop growing able to say 'God has given me such beau- ment serves to help church leaders "form roots in the document. "That means in in love." ty in my family and things with his help and equip families to that families can our dealing with people, the church needs "It is also a love letter calling the can be much more. I think that's what he become the pastoral instruments of min- to show an ability to step into other peo- church, the family of God, to realize is talking about the grace that is at work istry and evangelization to families." ple's shoes, to go where they are instead more and more her mission to live and in each one of our lives," Archbishop "He's not diverging from the teaching of immediately requiring them to come love as a family," he said. Kurtz said in response to a question. of his predecessors. He's saying 'Let's put where we are," he said. MOISES SANDOVAL

(Para 16) "Fronteras: A History of the reservación. De algún modo te (From 16) reservation needed. We will find Latin American Church in The encontramos un cuarto". you a room." conocíamos y valorábamos su USA Since 1513", yo fui el edi- El centro entonces estaba en A History of the Latin American The center was then in an old persona y éxitos oramos que tor y el escribió la introducción. un edificio muy anciano, ade- Church in The USA Since 1513, I building, formerly the seminary, Dios en su misericordia lo esper- Y si alguna entidad me invita- lante del seminario, y no tenia was the editor and he wrote the and without air conditioning. It ará con una linda fiesta, porque ba a dar una conferencia, era aire acondicionado. Era una introduction. That was the pat- was so hot at night in the summer el padre Elizondo fue una probable que el Padre Elizondo pesadilla dormir allí en el vera- tern. that one could not sleep. But the inspiración -- siempre entusiasta, también era uno de los presen- no. Pero valía la pena debido a If I was invited to speak at a hospitality and the people one perspicaz, creativo, servicial y tantes (uno de los principales), la calidad de la hospitalidad y conference, he was likely to be a met there made up for it. "When alegre. Era un deleite compartir mientras yo era parte de algún las personas valiosas que se speaker as well, giving the we are together, we have no con él. taller pequeño; él era mucho más conocían allí. El padre Elizondo keynote while I likely had a doubt that we are a family," Mientras pensaba y oraba por dotado. escribió en la introducción de workshop; he was better at that Father Elizondo wrote in the el padre Elizondo, amigo de No recuerdo la primera vez "Fronteras," que "somos en todo game than I was. introduction to "Fronteras. Pues muchos años, me di cuenta de lo que conocí al Padre Elizondo, sentido una familia". Así nos I do not recall the first time I somos en todo sentido una famil- mucho que nuestras vidas habian pero cuando empecé a viajar a sentíamos al estar allí. met Father Elizondo, but when I ia," which means "Well, we are a compartido. En 1981, cuando menudo al Centro Cultural Una valiosa vida entera no se started traveling regularly to the family in a total sense." And that Celebration Books en Kansas Mexicoamericano, lugar que él puede nulificar por un solo Mexican American Cultural is how it felt to be there. City publicó un pequeño libro fundó con el Arzobispo Patricio momento de desesperación Center, which he founded with Because I believe that an entire titulado "A Martyr's Message of Flores en 1972, me recibió con aplastante. Tengo confianza que Archbishop Patrick Flores in life cannot be nullified by a Hope: Six Homilies by las palabras, "Mi casa es tu cuando el padre Elizondo llegó a 1972, he welcomed me with the crushing moment of despair, I am Archbishop Oscar Romero", yo casa". Y cuando vio que no lo su eterno destino, oyó las pal- traditional: "Mi casa es tu casa." confident that when Father escribí el prefacio y él con- tomaba en serio, me dijo: "Hablo abras bellas de bienvenida: And when he saw I did not take Elizondo arrived at his eternal tribuyó el epílogo. En 1983 en serio. Cuando vengas a San "estás en tu casa". him seriously, he said: "No, I home, he heard the welcoming cuando el Centro Cultural Antonio quiero que te hospedes mean it. When you come to San words: "estas en tu casa," or "You Mexicoamericano publicó con nosotros. No necesitas hacer Antonio, you stay with us. No are home." The Angelus MAY 2016 Page 23

CONFERENCE GRN RADIO PROGRAM SCHEDDULE (From 6) well and inviting God in from the very expensive. Today’s college students talk beginning.” to their parents all the time through text exhortation to the people of the Pope Francis used part of his exhorta- messages, Snap Chat and email. The The Guadalupe Radio Network Diocese of San Angelo, the bishop was tion to write about how technology and electronic media can become a means of (GRN) operates 3 English joined by Tom Burke, a canon lawyer social media can and often does serve as communicating and networking even language Catholic radio stations in who serves on the diocese’s marriage tri- an impediment to family relations. better rather than being an obstacle. We the Diocese ofSf San Angelo: bunal, and Dave and Linda Erickson, Bishop Sis said that while cell phones just have to use the tool in the proper leaders with the diocese’s Engaged and other forms of new technology can way. The pope discusses this when he • Abilene - 91.7 FM, KQOS Encounter married preparation program connect us all more easily, they can also writes of people sitting at a dinner table • Midland-Odessa - 1150 AM, KLPF (see related stories). serve as a method of disconnecting from all talking on their cell phones and not to Bishop Sis said both personal econom- others right next to us. one another. He also talks about a couple • San Angelo - 911.5 FM, KPDE

ics and culture play a role in what he “My recommendation is, with a tool where one of the spouses late at night is called a reduced number of couples mar- like a computer or a cell phone, use it to engaged in video games or on their com- The GRN (Radio for Your Soul) is rying in the Church today. connect rather than to disconnect,” puter as the other one falls asleep alone an EWTN Affiliate..The Top 10 “I ask people to consider marrying in Bishop Sis said. “When I was in college, and the painfulness of that. We know weekday programs (most are “live” the Church today,” he said. “You don’t I hardly ever talked to my parents that gadgets can get in the way of rela- call-in shows) are: have to spend a lot of money. It can be a because I was a thousand miles away tionships. We also know a lot of beauti- very simple ceremony. The key is prepar- and long distance phone calls were ful ways they can build relationships.” 7 AM - Mass (EWTN Chapel) ing well, getting to know your partner 8 AM - Catholic CConnection CALDAROLA (Mon./Tues./Wed. /Thurs.)

(From 15) lege girls. She's talking about teens and this pressure. 9 AM - Fathers Know Best tweens, whoever has access to a smart- That's where good parents come in, par- 10 AM - Women of Grace with now available to nearly everybody. What phone and social media. She's talking ents with strong values who can raise kind of message is that sending young men about the depersonalization of relationships strong women, parents who show more Johnnette Benkovic about respect for our daughters? and a dearth of true friendship and respect. than a little interest in what's happening on 11 AM - More to Life The "hook-up" mentality in colleges nat- It's enough to make a grandma worry, their children's screens, parents who pro- urally springs from this sexualization. Sex but as I said, I think every generation faces mote and give examples of true friend- 12 PM - The Doctor Is In is casual and uncommitted, often fueled by challenges. Women today -- including ships. Parents must be the lifeboat in this (Except Mon.) wild binges of alcohol and drugs. young women -- should be raised to know particular swamp. But Sales' book isn't talking about col- they are tough and can stand up and resist 1 PM - Called to Communion BARRON (Mon./Tues./Thurs./Fri.)

(From 17) 2 PM - EWTN Open Line Appealing to these positive marks, the marriage is not objectively disordered, but Church might, according to a “law of it is to say that the pressures, difficulties, 3 PM - Divine Mercy Chaplet; Church. Now Francis says much more gradualness,” move that couple toward and dilemmas might mitigate their culpa- Kresta in the Afternoon regarding the beauty and integrity of mar- authentic and fully-integrated matrimony bility. Here is how Pope Francis applies riage, but you get my point: there is no (295). This is not to say that living the distinction: “Hence it is can no longer 5 PM - Catholic Answers Live watering down or compromising of the together is permitted or in accord with the simply be said that all those in any ‘irreg- ideal in this text. will of God; it is to say that the Church ular’ situation are living in a state of mor- Schedule Exceptions However, the Pope also honestly admits can perhaps find a more winsome way to tal sin and are deprived of sanctifying The GRN produces 3 other shows: that many, many people fall short of the move people in such a situation to con- grace” (301). Could the Church’s minister, ideal, failing fully to integrate all of the version. therefore, not help such people, in the pri- • Mon., 12 PM - WWe Sing Our Faith dimensions of what the Church means by The second move—and here we come vacy of the rectory parlor or the confes- matrimony. What is the proper attitude to to what will undoubtedly be the most con- sional, to discern their degree of moral • them? Like Cardinal George, the Pope troverted part of the exhortation—is to responsibility? Once again, this is not to Wed., 1 PM - A Good Habit has a visceral reaction against a strategy employ the Church’s classical distinction embrace a breezy “anything-goes” men- of simple condemnation, for the Church, between the objective quality of a moral tality, nor to deny that a civil marriage • Fri., 8 AM - GRN Alive he says, is a field hospital, designed to act and the subjective responsibility that after a divorce is objectively irregular; it care precisely for the wounded (292). the moral agent bears for committing that is to find, perhaps, for someone in great For a complete schedule, or to Accordingly, he recommends two funda- act (302). The Pope observes that many pain, a way forward. listen live, please go to: mental moves. First, we can recognize, people in civil marriages following upon a Will Amoris Laetitia end all debate on www.grnonline.com even in irregular or objectively imperfect divorce find themselves in a nearly these matters? Hardly. But it does indeed unions, certain positive elements that par- impossible bind. If their second marriage represent a deft and impressive balancing ticipate, as it were, in the fullness of mar- has proven faithful, life-giving, and fruit- of the many and often contradictory inter- ried love. Thus for example, a couple liv- ful, how can they simply walk out on it ventions at the two Synods on the Family. ing together without benefit of marriage without in fact incurring more sin and As such, it will be of great service to might be marked by mutual fidelity, deep producing more sadness? This is, of many suffering souls who come to the love, the presence of children, etc. course, not to insinuate that their second Field Hospital. Page 24 MAY 2016 The Angelus Confirmations

St. Thomas-Miles Confirmation In top photo, back row, left to right, Deacon Charlie Evans, Nathan Schraer, Andres Gomez, Nicholas Perez, Bishop Michael J. Sis, Alex Gutierrez, and Jared Flores. Front Row, Dayton Halfmann, Mirella Ornelas, Joseph Meza, Edgar Carbajal, Omar Tirado, Christopher Llanas, and Father Ariel Lagunilla. Confirmation was April 17, 2016. (Courtesy photo)

St. Margaret of Cortona-Big Lake Confirmation At right, top row, left to right, Bishop Michael J. Sis, Abel Rodriguez, Tony Zapata, Fr. Prem Thumma. Middle row, Angel Gallegos, Elijah Martinez, David Carrasco, JR Esquivel, Mariana Rodriguez. Bottom row, Marissa Ybarra, Isabel Holland, Maggie Ortiz, Alexis Garcia, Alex Garcia Confirmation was April 6, 2016. (Courtesy photo)

The St. Stephen’s-Midland RCIA group was baptized and/or confirmed at the Easter Vigil Mass, March 26, 2016. (Courtesy photo)