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E-publication Developed and Maintained LF0107front.indd 1 1/11/07 4:27:52 PM The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Laredo

Most Reverend James A. Tamayo, DD PUBLISHER Bennett McBride DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Jan./Feb. 2007 • Volume 5: Issue 1 Gregorio M. “Goyo” López EDITOR Rev. Toribio Guerrero CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Horchata Design WEB DESIGN Blas Gibler Transline TRANSLATIONS FAITH Publishing Service Rev. Dwight Ezop CHAIRMAN Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Elizabeth Solsburg EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR/WEB DESIGNER Enomhen Odigie Abby Wieber GRAPHIC DESIGN Jillane Job SUBSCRIPTIONS/SECRETARY

Patricia Oliver SECRETARY Rev. William Ashbaugh Elizabeth Johnson Rev. Joseph Krupp Cathleen McGreal Tim Ryan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Derek Melot Margaret Perrone PROOFREADING Tom Gennara Christine Jones CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Inner Workings PRINTER

FAITHPublishingService.com

La Fe is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Laredo, 1901 Corpus Christi, Laredo, Texas 78043. Published bimonthly. Subscriptions are $15 per year. Individual issues are $4.50. Send all subscription information and address changes to 1901 Corpus Christi, Laredo, Texas 78043; 956.523.0586; fax 956.722.4464 or e-mail [email protected]. Catholic Dio- cese of Laredo. To obtain permission to reprint any portion of La Fe, please call 956.523.0586.

Liturgical Calendar: Octave of Christma

LF0107front.indd 2 1/11/07 4:27:58 PM inside this issue inside what you’ll get out of this issue Cover Story Two teens proud to be in the know with Fr. Joe faithful Catholics. 6 Dear Fr. Joe: what do I do if a friend is suicidal? – Father Joseph Krupp theology 101 10 Was Jesus really human or did he just appear that way? A conversation about Christology with seminary professors. – Elizabeth Solsburg

saint of the month 19 Executed for his faith – twice Saint Sebastian.

the parenting journey 23 My child is not my best friend. How being a parent is different from being a friend. – Dr. Cathleen McGreal

your marriage matters 24 She says: Smoking is a “deal breaker” for me. He says: I need to smoke to reduce stress. What do they do? – Deborah McCormack profile Stephanie spiritual ﬁ tness 20 Hechter wins 26 In a chat room with God. Prayer is feature national recognition our instant message with Jesus. St. Augustine student captures a – Father Bill Ashbaugh Region 10 national award for her artistic Conference rendition of the nativity. Her art- While the work was prominently displayed as cover story fea- Bishop Tamayo’s Christmas card tures two teens as well as thousands more on a from the Region national level. – Goyo López 10 Cataholic Youth Confer- ence, you can feature also see a Diaconate work life glimpse of the 22 Ordination at 28 What do I want to be when I grow many activities in Cathedral – La Fe’s camera up? Ohmigosh, am I a grown-up? this photo mon- freezes the moment for the seven – Tim Ryan tage. – Goyo López men in the Diocese of Laredo who took a bold and spiritual step in their lives. Six of the men were the last word ordained as permanent deacons 31 Faith is ... and one a transitional deacon. – Fr. Toribio Guerrero 18 – Goyo López ristmas: The Blessed Virgin Mary, The Mother of God Jan. 1 (not a holy day of obligation this year) | Sts. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops and Doctors of the Church Jan. 2

LF0107front.indd 3 1/11/07 4:28:04 PM from the editor del editor

nother issue of La Fe is out so ale tan pronto otra edición de La Fe? soon? That may be the ques- Esta puede ser la pregunta que muchos de ustedes están suponiendo al ir pasando por tion many of you are posing as las páginas de esta nueva edición. you begin fl ipping through the Un año nuevo trae un nuevo tema y pagesA of this edition. ¿Snosotros celebramos el 2007 al escribir sobre los múltiples frutos del Espíritu Santo, y en esta edición A new year brings a new theme, and we celebrate 2007 by nos enfocamos sobre la fi delidad. writing about the many fruits of the Holy Spirit. In this issue Otro fruto de nuestros esfuerzos en La Fe, es la aumen- we focus on faithfulness. tada frecuencia de publicación. Another fruit of our endeavors at La Fe is the increased En un empeño de evangelizar mas y de mejorar nuestro frequency of publication. producto, hemos decidido imprimir cada segundo mes para In an effort to further evangelize and improve our product, un total de seis ediciones por año. we have decided to print every other month, for a total of six La Fe comenzó a publicarse en la primavera de 2003, issues per year. mediante el especial fi nanciamiento de una donación de la La Fe fi rst began publishing in spring 2003 through the Fundación Lamar Bruni Vergara Grant, haciendo disponible special funding of a Lamar Bruni Vergara grant, making the la revista sin costo alguno para cualquier persona que de- magazine available free of charge to anyone who desired one seara una o más copias. or more copies. La subvención de dos años, ayudado por una donación The two-year grant, supplemented by a Kenedy grant, al- de Kennedy Grant, permitió obtener el fi nanciamiento to- lowed for the full funding of the magazine to be printed on a tal de la revista para ser impresa sobre la base trimestral quarterly basis and distributed free of charge. y distribuida libre de costo. Now we have entered a new era. No longer funded Ahora hemos entrado a una nueva era para la by grant monies, La Fe is now attempting to become revista. Y no fi nanciado por dineros donados, La self-suffi cient. The fi rst step in this process is to accept Fe ahora está tratando de llegar a ser autosufi ci- advertising. ente. El primer paso de este proceso es la acep- I’m sure you’ve noticed the ads on the different tación de publicidad. pages in the magazine. All revenue generated by Estoy seguro que habrán notado los anun- the advertisements partially funds the opera- cios en las diferentes páginas en la revista. tion of the magazine. Todo ingreso generado por la publicidad, Despite the strain on economic resources, parcialmente fi nancia la operación de la La Fe continues to be provided free of charge revista. to anyone who desires to read this magazine A pesar del peso sobre nuestros fi lled with stories of faith, hope and love. recursos económicos, La Fe continúa Whether you grab a copy at your parish, siendo proveída libre de cargo para local businesses or at our offi ce, La Fe is cualquier persona que desee leer la always free. revista, llena de historias de fe, esper- I hope you Why is it free? anza, y amor. enjoy the many It’s free because we’re Ya sea que tome usted una copia en su blessed stories more than a magazine. parroquia, negocios locales o en nuestra inspired by the We’re more than a ofi cina, la revista siempre es gratuita. fruits of the Holy medium for the bishop to ¿Por qué es gratuita? Spirit and our gift reach the masses. Es gratuita porque somos más que una to you this new La Fe is a ministry. revista. year – six issues La Fe was founded in the Somos más que un medio para que el of La Fe! spirit of the call for a new Obispo alcance a las masas. evangelization utilizing the La Fe es un ministerio. communication media, as La Fe fue fundada en el espíritu de la llamada set forth by Pope John Paul II. para una nueva evangelización, utilizando los I hope you enjoy the many blessed stories in- medios de la comunicación, como establecido spired by the fruits of the Holy Spirit and our gift por el Papa Juan Pablo II. to you this new year – six issues of La Fe! Espero que disfruten de todas las benditas historias, inspiradas por los frutos del Espíritu – Gregorio “Goyo” López is editor of La Fe, the magazine f the Santo, y de nuestro regalo para ustedes en este Diocese of Laredo. año nuevo – ¡Seis ediciones de La Fe!

The MostLa Holy Fe Magazine Name of 4Jesus January/February Jan. 3 | St. Elizabeth 2007 Ann Seton, Religious Jan. 4 | St. John Neumann, Bishop Jan. 5 | Blessed Andre Bessette, Religious Jan. 6 The Epiphany of the Lord Jan. 7

LF0107front.indd 5 1/11/07 4:28:21 PM in the know with Fr. Joe

Recently, at the high school where I’m chaplain, one of our students committed suicide. It was one of the most difﬁ cult times I have experienced in my six years at the school. I am writing this column about suicide in response to a question mailed to me. The answer comes from being a part of the slow and painful healing process that everyone goes through when someone chooses to take his or her life. Please pray today that all of us will grow in our ability to know our value in the eyes of God. May Jesus bless you today. dear Fr. Joe what do I do if my friend is suicidal?

Dear Fr. Joe: is going on and what you can do What do I do if a friend is suicidal? to help. Often, the best thing you can do to help is to be available and ough times, obviously – you have my offer him all your love and prayers. prayers. Now, what do you do? First of all, Now, if in your conversations, you have to recognize that you are in an you realize that she is serious about Timportant position as a friend. If you think your friend hurting herself or taking her own life, is suicidal, then one of two things is true: you need to be sure and be present One possibility is that your friend told you that he is to her as much as you can. Perhaps thinking of suicide. If that is the case, then that means you can get a group of trusted people your friend has trusted you with his secret. You have to stay close, or seek help from an earned something great because of the way you care, adult while you take the next step, be telling about this situation. and that speaks very well of you. which is the diffi cult one. There is also the possibility of The second possibility is that you have watched See, the next step is that you need talking to one of your teachers, your friend and picked up on subtle signs that to take this to an adult. The hardest or the counselor at school. There something is amiss, and that you see the possibil- part here will be your feelings of are many people you can go to ity of her hurting herself. If that is the case, this also guilt about breaking a confi dence. in a situation like this – make speaks well of you; you are an observant, sensitive It could also be that you are sure you take this step! person who is aware of your friends at a time in your thinking “Well, I could be wrong Now, if the person is threaten- life when it is hard not to be self-focused. I am telling and if I am, I’ll really ing to seriously hurt you these things because you need to keep them in embarrass my friend.” “How are you do- him or herself at that your heart, as things might get rough. I think it’s worth it, ing today? Is there moment, don’t hesitate The fi rst step is to be sure that you are talking with don’t you? Suicide is a anything I can – pick up the phone your friend about his or her feelings; “How are you permanent condition. do?” Questions and call 9-1-1. Don’t doing today? Is there anything I can do?” Questions like There are no second like this are an worry about “wasting this are an invitation to chances in a situation invitation to take their time.” I assure take what is hidden in like this. what is hidden in you, the numerous the darkness and bring With that in your the darkness and police offi cers I have them into the light. They heart and mind, then, bring them out talked to on this issue are more than questions; be sure and talk to into the light. would rather respond they are a statement of a trusted adult. You may want to a call to prevent a teen suicide care and concern. As to talk to your own parents. than a call to report one. your friend shares his Sometimes, they may have sug- Some people will tell you, “Well, heart with you, make gestions about who you should she’s only doing it to get attention,” sure that you are really listening. Find out what Send your questions to: “In the Know with Fr. Joe”, FAITH Magazine, 209 Seymour A

LF0107front.indd 6 1/11/07 4:28:24 PM P a d r e J o s é

Querido Fr. Joe: ¿Qué debo Recientemente, en la escuela secundaria donde sería una buena idea con- hacer si un amigo quiere trabajo como capellán, uno de nuestros estudiantes versar con los padres de tu suicidarse? se suicidó. Ese fue para mí uno de los periodos amigo, asumiendo que ellos más difíciles en los seis años que he estado en la no sean parte del problema. omentos difíciles, sin escuela. Escribo ahora esta columna en respuesta Si no puedes hablar con ellos, lugar a dudas - cuentas a una pregunta que me han enviado por correo. La podrías decírselo a tus propios con mis oraciones. respuesta surge de la experiencia de ser parte del padres. En realidad, puede M¿Qué debes hacer ahora? lento y penoso proceso de sanación por el que todos ser que quieras conversar Primero que nada debes reconocer pasan cuando alguien elige quitarse la vida. Por con tus padres primero, de que tú te encuentras en la posición muy favor, oren hoy para que crezca en todos nosotros todas maneras. Es posible que importante de ser su amigo. Si sabes que la capacidad de reconocer el valor que tenemos ellos tengan sugerencias en tu amigo quiere suicidarse, una de estas delante de los ojos de Dios. Que Jesús los bendiga. cuanto a las personas con las dos cosas es cierta: una posibilidad es que debes hablar sobre esta que tu amigo te haya dicho que ha estado El primer paso será no dejar de situación. Tienes además la opción de pensando en suicidarse. En ese caso, tu conversar con tu amigo sobre sus hablarle a uno de tus maestros o al amigo te ha confi ado a tí su secreto. Has sentimientos: “¿Cómo estás? ¿Qué consejero de tu escuela. ¡Hay tantas ganado algo verdaderamente valioso y puedo hacer por tí?” Preguntas como personas a las que puedes acudir en te lo mereces por la manera en la que estas invitan a sacar a la luz lo que está una situación como esta - no dejes de te dedicas a tus amigos, lo que habla escondido en las tinieblas. Son más que tomar este paso! muy bien de tí. La segunda posibilidad preguntas; son una declaración de que Pero si esta persona esta amenazando es que tú, observando a tu amigo, hayas te importa y preocupa el bienestar de tu con quitarse la vida en ese momento, no reconocido síntomas sutiles de que algo amigo. A medida que tu amigo compar- vaciles, ve a un teléfono y llama al 911. no está bien y que reconoces que existe ta contigo los secretos de su corazón, Que no te importe si les “haces perder la posibilidad de que él pueda hacerse asegúrate de que tú estés realmente el tiempo.” Te aseguro que los muchos daño a sí mismo. Este caso también habla escuchándolo. Averigua qué es lo que agentes de policía con los que he hablado bien de tí; eres una persona observadora está pasando y la manera en la que tú sobre este asunto prefi eren mucho más y sensible, consciente de la presencia puedas ayudar. Con frecuencia lo mejor contestar un llamado para prevenir el sui- de tus amigos durante un periodo de tu es ponerte a disposición de tu amigo y cidio de un adolescente que un llamado vida en el que es difícil no estar centrado ofrecerle todo tu amor y tus oraciones. para reportar una muerte por suicidio. en tí mismo. Te digo estas cosas porque Pero, si por tus conversaciones te Algunas personas te dirán, “Está debes guardarlas en tu corazón ya que la das cuenta de que él seriamente quiere haciendo eso para llamarte la atención,” y situación estará a punto de ponerse dura. quitarse la vida, tienes que estar con él puede que ese sea realmente el caso. Sin lo más que puedas. Haz que un grupo embargo, si tu amigo “está haciendo eso and that may very well be the case. de personas de confi anza esté siem- para llamarte la atención,” entonces debe However, if she is only “doing it to get pre cerca de él mientras tú tomas el estar muy necesitado de atención, porque attention,” then she must need atten- próximo paso, que es el más difícil. comenzar a hablar de quitarse la vida es tion pretty badly, because talking about Lo que pasa es que el próximo paso un paso bastante drástico. No uses la suicide is a pretty drastic step. Don’t use es llevarle este problema a una persona posibilidad de que sólo se trate de “llamar the possibility of “attention-getting” as adulta. Lo más duro en estos momen- la atención”, como una razón para alejarte a reason to step away, let it compel you tos es enfrentarse con los sentimien- de tu amigo. Deja que esta posibilidad te even more to get involved. Any time a tos de culpa por divulgar un secreto. impulse a dedicarte más a la situación. person threatens to hurt herself or to end Además puede ser que estés pensando Siempre que una persona amenace con his life, you should take it very seriously. “Puede ser que yo esté equivocado, y quitarse la vida o diga que quiere estar If you are reading this and struggling si realmente estoy equivocado, voy a muerta, tú debes tomarlo en serio. with thoughts about hurting yourself or avergonzar a mi amigo.” Si estás leyendo esto mientras tú ending your life, please talk to someone Yo pienso que vale la pena arriegarse, mismo estás luchando con pensamientos who can help: your parents, your priest ¿no te parece? El suicidio es permanente. suicidas, no dejes de hablar con alguien or teacher, a friend; anyone who can help. En situaciones como ésta no se tiene más que pueda ayudarte: tus padres, un sacer- Life is a precious, beautiful gift que una oportunidad. Es mejor cometer dote o tu maestra, un amigo, cualquier – we all need to take care of and cher- un error por ser demasiado cauteloso que persona que pueda ayudarte. ish that gift the best we can. tener que estar en un funeral pensando La vida es un regalo valiosísimo y Enjoy another day in God’s en lo que podrías haber hecho. hermoso -todos nosotros necesitamos presence! – Father Joseph Krupp Entonces, con todo esto presente cuidarlo y conservarlo lo más posible. en tu corazón y en tu mente, no dejes ¡Disfruta de otro día en la presencia de hablar con un adulto de confi anza; de Dios! our Ave., Lansing, MI 48933 or [email protected]. t. Blase, Bishop and Martyr Feb. 3 | St. Ansgar, Bishop Feb. 3 | St. Agatha, Virgin and Martyr Feb. 5 | St. Paul Miki, Religious and his Companions, Martyrs Feb. 6 | St. Jerome Emiliani, Priest Feb. 8

LF0107front.indd 7 1/11/07 4:28:41 PM from the bishop

Thanks be to God! eading that line probably in- vokes memories of going to Mass. We proclaim our gratitude during the readings and at the conclusion of the Liturgy. But do we ever stop and reﬂ ect on the full meaning of this phrase? RThanks be to God! In this, our ﬁ rst issue of 2007 we celebrate faithfulness – one of the many fruits of the Holy Spirit. We celebrate our faithfulness to the words and teachings of Christ. We also celebrate our faithfulness to one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. And I remind you to give thanks to God for providing us the choice to be faithful.

La Fe Magazine 8 January/February 2007 St. Scholastica, Virgin Feb. 10 | St. Cyril, Monk and St. Methodius, Bishop Feb. 14 | The Seven Founders of the Order of the Servites

LF0107front.indd 8 1/11/07 4:28:52 PM de parte del obispo

All that we do and all that we have is because of racias a Dios! Him. And as faithful servants, we give thanks. Al leer esa línea probablemente nos trae Unfortunately, all too often we take for granted recuerdos de ir a Misa. everything that our Creator has given us. Proclamamos nuestra gratitud durante las

Sometimes we are consumed by our daily tasks. lecturas y a la conclusión de la Liturgia..

However, we should all extend our gratitude to ¡G¿Pero acaso nos detenemos para refl exionar sobre el sig- God for the most basic necessities in life like the air nifi cado total de esta frase? we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat. ¡Gracias a Dios! We also give him thanks for nourishing our soul A faithful En esta, nuestra primera edición del Año Calendario del through the body and blood of Christ. Catholic 2007, celebramos nuestra fi delidad, uno de los muchos frutos ‘‘ And thanks be to God for saving our lives by steward del‘ Espíritu Santo. sacrifi cing his only son for us. The list continues Celebramos nuestra fi delidad en las palabras y las enseñan- embraces for everything and everyone in our lives. zas de Cristo. A little over three months ago, Rev. Daniel Ma- the social Y yo les recuerdo que den gracias a Dios por proveernos han visited our diocese and conducted a series of teachings of con la dicha de elegir ser fi eles. seminars on stewardship. the Catholic Todo lo que hacemos y todo lo que tenemos es debido a Él. Fr. Mahan quickly dispelled the myth that good Church and Y como sirvientes fi eles, damos gracias. stewardship simply requires giving money to works as a Desafortunadamente, con demasiada frecuencia, tomamos the church. Instead, good stewardship begins by por hecho todo lo que Nuestro Creador nos ha dado. A veces partner with thanking God everyday for all that we have. Give ‘‘‘ nos consumen nuestras tareas diarias. glory to God for all the goodness in our lives. God in the Todos deberíamos extender nuestra gratitud a Dios por las As a faithful steward, give God credit and thanks redemptionemption necesidades más básicas en la vida, como el aire que respira- for all the resources, talents and abilities that you of the world. mos, el agua que bebemos y el alimento que comemos. possess. También darle gracias por nutrir nuestra alma mediante el A faithful Catholic steward embraces the social cuerpo y la sangre de Cristo. teachings of the Catholic Church and works Y gracias a Dios por salvar nuestras vidas mediante el sacri- as a partner with God in the redemption fi cio de su hijo único, por nosotros. of the world. A good disciple respects Y la lista continúa por todo y por cada persona en nuestras human life and dignity, protects the vidas. natural environment and shares one’s Hace poco más de tres meses, el Rev. Daniel Mahan visitó gifts of time talent and treasure with nuestra diócesis y dirigió una serie de seminarios sobre la others. administración de servir. By becoming a good steward, El Padre Mahan rápidamente disipó el mito de que la buena ad- you will experience the ministración de servicio simplemente requiere dar dinero a la Iglesia. amazing increase of God’s En vez, la buena administración de servicio comienza por presence in your life. darle gracias a Dios, todos los días por todo lo que tenemos. This reward results Dar gloria a Dios por todas las bondades en nuestras vidas. from your partnership Como fi el administrador de servicio dale crédito a Dios y with our Lord. gracias por todos los recursos, talentos y habilidades que tú And it is then that posees. “thanks be to God” Un fi el administrador de servicio Católico abraza las takes a new, deeper enseñanzas sociales de la Iglesia Católica y trabaja como un meaning. socio de Dios en la redención del mundo. Un buen discípulo Fulfi ll your faith- respeta la vida y dignidad humana, protege el ambiente fulness by becoming natural y comparte sus bienes de tiempo, talento y tesoro a good steward of con otros. the Catholic Church Al ser un buen administrador de servicio, experimentarás and let the world wit- la asombrosa presencia de Dios en tu vida. Este premio es ness that you embrace resultado de tu asociación con Nuestro Señor. your God-given talents, Y es entonces cuando “Gracias a Dios” tiene un nuevo y resources and abilities más profundo signifi cado. Todo Con Amor! Cumple tu fi delidad convirtiéndote en un buen administrador de servicio de la Iglesia Católica y permite que el - Most Rev. James A. Tamayo is bishop of mundo sea testigo de cómo utilizas y compartes tus talentos, the Diocese of Laredo. recursos y habilidades ¡Todo Con Amor!

ervites, Religious Feb. 17 | Ash Wednesday Feb. 21 | The Chair of St. Peter, Apostle Feb. 22 | St. Polycarp, Bishop and Martyr Feb. 23

LF0107front.indd 9 1/11/07 4:28:55 PM theology 101

theologian of the month

Irenaeus (c. 130-202) Irenaeus was the bishop of Lugdunum in Gaul (Lyons, France). He is believed to be Greek and was a disciple of Polycarp. Irenaeus’ did Jesus just theology was centrally concerned with the unity of God, as opposed to the Gnostic divi- sions of God’s Could he really nature. Irenaeus have sinned? taught that God created the world, has a plan for it and that humanity must mature into his year, La Fe is exploring Christology La Fe: Was Jesus really its fullness as – the study of Jesus Christ. We asked human or did he just appear images of God. that way? several eminent seminary professors He articu- lated Jesus some questions about Jesus. Their an- Father Muller: Jesus was fully as the Logos, Tswers are enlightening and thought-provoking. human. One of the most important or Word, and Q believed that things in the early church was the salvation history testimony of the bodily resurrection reached its high- of Christ. That is crucial in terms est point with of grounding Christ’s humanity, Christ. Irenaeus Meet the which was not something illusory is credited with professors – it could not be taken up and put being the ﬁ rst to list the Gospels aside. Rather, it was a permanent Father Acklin Father Muller Father Stevens of Matthew, part of Christ’s reality. Mark, Luke and Father Thomas Acklin is on the faculty of St. Vincent Abbey John as divinely in Latrobe, Pa. He is a graduate of Duqesne University, St. Vincent Father Stevens: It is basic to our inspired, and he Seminary, The Catholic University of Louvain and Pittsburgh Psycho- faith that Jesus didn’t simply appear is known for his analytic Institute. work, Against to be human. Time and again, there Heresies. Father Earl Muller is on the faculty at Sacred Heart Seminary in were afﬁ rmations of his genuine Detroit. He formerly taught at Marquette University in Wisconsin. humanity. Even the Gospel of John, Father Gladstone Stevens is on the faculty of St. Mary Semi- which is so often concerned with nary in Baltimore. Jesus’ divinity, points out that Jesus

La FeWhat Magazine is 10 heresy? January/February her! "2007 s#: The willful and persistent rejection of any article of faith by a baptized Catholic.

LF0107front.indd 10 1/11/07 4:29:04 PM W HO IS CHRIST? A YEAR- LONG CONVERSATION WITH THEOLOGIANS

Heresy! he could have fallen, but didn’t. His Docetism – Jesus only appeared human human free will was so perfectly aligned with his divine will that it Did Jesus really have a body? Or was he pure spirit who only appeared in human would have been impossible for form? An early heresy of the church, Docetism, proposed the latter. The name comes from the him to sin. Greek, dokeo, “to seem” and the heresy comes from a worldview of matter as being inherently evil. If physicality is evil, then God, being all-good, could not associate with it. Therefore, Jesus only appeared to be human, but was not. Father Muller: Could he have Of course, this would mean that Jesus did not really inhabit our world, suffer crucifi xion physically performed actions that and rise from the dead. And as Paul said, “If Jesus did not rise from the dead, then our faith is in vain.” were “sinful actions.” Yes, he was Docetism was condemned as a heresy by the Council of Chalcedon in 451, after vigor- capable of that, but the question ous arguments and discussions over the previous four centuries. Ignatius you have to ask is: Was his grace of Antioch, Irenaeus and Hippolatus all wrote treatises against it. such that sin was possible? And a related question is about us – when is fully human. For example, Jesus is sometimes a tendency to exempt we are in heaven, will we be able to weeps. Even after the resurrection, Jesus from having to suffer or die; sin? The answer is that sin will no he eats. The only way to save us was or from having a human body or longer be possible because we will to assume our humanity fully – that sexuality. If that is the case, then be faced with the full glory of God which is not assumed cannot be our bodies are not redeemed. So, and won’t want anything else. We saved. So, if part of the human ex- the full humanity of Jesus has been what does that will be free, but will freely choose perience falls taught from the earliest moment of symbol mean? to love God. That is the intrinsic Was Jesus really outside the church history. necessity on which Christ’s sinless- human or did he life of Jesus’ Chi Rho ness is based. As the eternal Son, experience, it La Fe: Could Jesus really just appear as a The Chi he is utterly happy and his human human? It’s one of would not be have sinned? Rho is an early soul, in union with that utter hap- the oldest heresies. saved. Christian sym- piness, would not want to sin. If he only appeared Father Acklin: Jesus could be bol – formed by as a human, then Father tempted, in every way that we are combining the Father Stevens: Could fi rst two Greek he only appeared Acklin: Was tempted. However, Jesus was not Jesus have sinned? If he Q letters of the word to redeem us. Jesus really only perfect in his divine nature, he Christ. Its fi rst lacked the capacity to human or was perfect in his human nature. famous use was sin, then he wasn’t really did he just appear as a human? It’s He was human in a way that was on the labarum, human. And yet, he was one of the oldest heresies. If he only not corrupted by sin. Adam and or imperial stan- not capable of sinning. appeared as a human, then he only Eve fell, but Jesus and Mary did dard, adopted by Emperor Author Gerald appeared to redeem us. As St. Ire- not. The third Council of Constan- Constantine after O’Collins dis- naeus said, everything he assumed tinople held that Jesus had human his vision. cusses this in his of our humanity is redeemed. There free will as well as divine will – so book, Christol- ogy: A Biblical, Historical, and System- Bible Quiz atic Study of Jesus I am the femme fatale Christ. Sin is not actually part of our of the Valley of Sorek – who am I? natural humanity; it is what dimin- Turn to People often say name has actually become a synonym ishes our humanity. page 29 for my name means for a femme fatale. I’ve been portrayed We were not created the answer “weak” in He- in art by Tintoretto and Van Dyck, in to sin – that does brew – I myself opera by San Saens, and on fi lm by prefer to think Hedy Lamarr and Elizabeth Hurley. not contribute to of it as meaning But my personal favorite is when Tom the fullness of who “delicate”, which is so Jones sang a popular song about me we are as human much more feminine. in 1968 – thousands of years after my beings. Jesus, free And I am nothing if not famous romance with a real “he-man” of sin, is per- the epitome of feminine in the Book of Judges. I think if I’d lived wiles. I was noted in a later time, I might have gone to fectly human. for my beauty in my beauty school – I just love the feel of hometown – the valley scissors in my hand and an untouched – Elizabeth of Sorek – and my head of hair in front of me. Who am I? Solsburg

LF0107front.indd 11 1/11/07 4:29:12 PM cover story

Two teen servant leaders personify faithfulness By Goyo López | Photography by Goyo López

uan Jose “JJ” Martinez, Jr. of uan José “JJ” Martínez, Jr.,de Carrizo Springs and Sylvester Carrizo Springs y Sylvester Salinas of Crystal City both Salinas de Cristal City, ambos have chosen to walk the path han escogido caminar la senda J less chosen. J menos escogida. They’ve learned that doing what’s Han aprendido que hacer lo popular isn’t always right and doing que es popular no siempre es correcto y hacer lo que es correcto no siempre what’s right isn’t always popular. es popular. As a result of their religious convic- Como resultado de sus convicciones tions, the two high school students religiosas, los dos estudiantes de prepa- have often been ridiculed by their ratoria con mucha frecuencia han sido peers. ridiculizados por sus compañeros, A Despite this peer pressure, their pesar de esta presión, su fuerte creen- strong belief in Catholicism has al- cia en el Catolicismo, les ha permitido lowed them to persevere and to con- perseverar y de continuar cargando sus tinue bearing their individual crosses. cruces individuales.

La Fe Magazine 12 January/February 2007

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J, the more extroverted of the two, is a J, el más extrovertido de los dos, es estudiante sophomore at Carrizo Springs High and a de segundo año de preparatoria en Carrizo Springs y Lector en la Parroquia de Nuestra lector at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. J Señora de Guadalupe. He also tends to stand out in a crowd. There aren’t too J También tiene la tendencia de destacar en los grupos. many 16-year-old boys who, by choice, don a dress shirt, tie No hay muchos muchachos de 16 años de edad quienes por and slacks as their daily attire. su propia elección se ponen una camisa de vestir, una corbata y “Look at me, at the way I’m dressed. Why do you think pantalón de traje como su ropa diaria. everyone says that I’m gonna be a priest,” JJ asks rhetorically. “Miren mi manera de vestir. ¿Por qué creen que todos dicen While most teenagers would more than likely detest the que voy a ser sacedote?” pregunta JJ de manera retórica. notion of becoming a priest, JJ embraces it. Mientras que la mayoría de los adolescentes lo más probable “It doesn’t bother me when people tease me about be- es que odian la noción de llegar a ser sacerdote, JJ abraza la coming a priest. I actually see it as a sign of respect,” said idea. JJ. “Even my two older sisters tease me about becoming a “No me molesta cuando la gente se burla de mí porque priest.” quiero llegar a ser sacerdote. En realidad lo veo como una señal Even though he has not discerned about it, JJ has thought de respeto”, dijo JJ. about the priesthood. “Aún mis dos hermanas mayores me fastidian por parecer “I’ve thought about how many people I help. I could que voy a ser sacerdote”. change people’s lives for the better,” he theorized. “I’ve Aunque no ha discernido sobre ello, si ha pensado sobre el

La Fe Magazine 14 January/February 2007

LF0107front.indd 14 1/11/07 4:29:52 PM Through Fr. Toby, God changed one of my closest friends. He’s now the closest one to God. Be- fore that, my friend was very far from the church. I’d like to be an instrument like that.

seen the miraculous work of God through Fr. Toby. Through Fr. Toby, God changed one of my closest friends. He’s now the closest one to God. Before that, my friend was very far from the church. I’d like to be an instrument like that.” The busy youth leader manages to balance his academic schedule with extracurricular activities such as marching band, concert band, student council, Business Professionals of America and sacerdocio. church. “He pensado sobre a cuantas personas And by no stretch of the imagination does podría ayudar. Yo podría cambiar las vidas church take a back seat. de las personas para lo mejor”, ha reﬂ exionado. “Yo “I’m really involved with church,” JJ exclaims. “I he visto el trabajo milagroso de Dios a través del started getting involved last year because I registered Padre Toby. Mediante de Fr. Toby, Dios cambió a uno for CCD and they told us how they were starting a de mis amigos más cercanos. Ahora es el que más youth choir and a youth ministry. So I joined both of cerca está de Dios. Antes de eso, mi amigo estaba them and got involved.” muy alejado de la Iglesia. Yo quisiera ser un instru- For almost two years, JJ has also served as an mento como ese sacerdote”. ambassador for his parish through his involvement El ocupado joven de liderazgo logra balancear su programa académico con actividades extracurricula- res tales como banda de marcha, banda de conci- erto, consejo estudiantil, Empresarios Profesionales de América y la Iglesia. Y la Iglesia, por ningún alcance de la imaginación, se queda hasta lo último. “Yo realmente estoy involucrado con la Iglesia”, exclama JJ. “Comencé a involucrarme el año pasado

porque me registré para CCD y nos dijeron que

estaban formando un coro juvenil y un ministerio de juventud. Así es que me registré en los dos y simplemente me involucré”. Por casi dos años JJ ha servido como embajador para su Parroquia mediante estar involucrado en la

Hermandad Cristiana de Atletas (FCA) en la Prepa-

with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Carrizo ratoria de Carrizo Springs. Springs High. “FCA es un grupo grande de Cristianos de diferen- “FCA is a bunch of Christians from different reli- tes religiones y nos untamos cada martes a las 7:30 gions and we gather every Thursday at 7:30 a.m. to The busy de la mañana para desayunar, leer las eat breakfast, read Scripture and discuss its mean- youth leader Escrituras y discutir su signiﬁ cado y lo que ‘‘ ‘ ‘ ing and what we think about it,” said JJ. “Then we manages to nosotros‘ pensamos sobre lo mismo”, dijo JJ. “Y pray together. Sometimes, we’ll offer our prayers for balance his entonces oramos juntos. A veces ofrecemos nuestras certain people in school who need them.” academic oraciones para ciertas personas en la escuela que las Perhaps what is most surprising about JJ’s schedule necesitan”. involvement with the Catholic Church is that he’s with extra- Quizá lo más sorprendente de que JJ está been self-motivated. By his own account, he talks curricular involucrado con la Iglesia Católica es que ha sido freely about his parents, Juan José and Delma, who activities por motivación propia. Por su propia cuenta, habla attend Mass, but are not immersed as he is. such as libremente acerca de sus padres, Juan José y Delma, “They do go to church and they respect what I’m marching quienes asisten a Misa pero no están tan inmergidos doing, but they are not as involved as I am,” began JJ.‘‘‘ band, con- como lo está él. They are supportive of what I am doing. cert band, “Ellos si van a la Iglesia y respetan lo que yo estoy They’ve told me that they are proud of me and student haciendo pero no están tan involucrados como yo lo they are happy for me because I’m doing something council, estoy”,esto comenzó a decir JJ. that I like and that is for a good cause.” Business EllosE me apoyan en lo que yo estoy haciendo. Me And JJ caught a glimpse of the greater cause two Profes- han dicho que están orgullosos de mi y que están

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months ago while attending the Region 10 Youth felices de lo que yo estoy haciendo, porque es algo Conference in Laredo. que me gusta hacer y que es para una buena causa”. “I left the conference in amazement,” exclaimed Y JJ. Se percató de una causa mayor hace un par JJ. “I can’t believe that I saw thousands of people de meses cuando asistía a la Conferencia de Juven- like me. I felt happy because I saw that I’m not tud de la Región 10 en Laredo. the only one that loves God. I’m part of some- “Salí de la conferencia azorado”, exclamó JJ. thing bigger.” “No puedo creer que vi a miles de personas como The son of Baldemar and Martha Salinas from yo. Me sentí feliz porque me di cuenta de que yo Crystal City also walked away from the confer- no soy el único que ama a Dios. Soy parte de algo ence in awe of the universal church. mucho más grande.” “I never felt anything like this,” Sylvester pro- El hijo de Baldemar y Martha Salinas de Cristal claimed. “This woke me up because there’s a con- City, también salió de la conferencia igualmente notation that Catholicism is very rigid and that azorado de la Iglesia Universal. it’s not open to everybody. But it is. This event “Yo nunca había sentido cosa alguna como esta”, proved it. I wish all my friends could’ve seen this. proclamó Sylvester. It defi nitely opened my eyes and my mind. God “Esto me despertó, porque existe una conno- was just working his magic.” tación de que el Catolicismo The Javelina senior, like his peer in Carrizo es muy rígido y no está abierto para todos. Springs, returned to the church during his for- Pero sí lo está. Este evento lo compro- mative middle-school years. bó. Yo desearía que todos mis amigos “I’ve been a Catholic all my life, but I got podrían haber visto esto. Defi nitiva- involved in the eighth grade. I was away from mente abrió mis ojos y mi mente. Dios the church for about seven years because my sólo estaba haciendo funcionar su parents were working a lot and we didn’t make magia.” time for church,” explained Sylvester. “Then in Este estudiante de último año de my eighth-grade year, I started coming back to Preparatoria Javelina, tal como su church. I was the fi rst one to come back and igual en Carrizo Springs, regresó a la

my parents were still working.” Iglesia durante sus años escolares de

It was during this time that the potential formación media. salutatorian began excelling academically. “Yo he sido un Católico toda mi vida, “I started doing well in school, but I was not pero me involucré cuando estaba en el fulﬁ lled. I needed something more,” Sylvester octavo grado. Estuve alejado de la Iglesia added. “I started going to the English Masses and por unos siete años porque mis padres

I listened to the readings and to the sermons. Then, Fr. estaban trabajando mucho y no le dimos

Chema [Rev. José M. Guevara] asked me to be an usher tiempo a la Iglesia”, explicó Sylvester. Luego en mi at Sacred Heart. Then they asked me if I wanted to be inn octavo año, comencé a regresar a la Iglesia. Yo fui choir, so I went to choir. And then, they asked me to be el primero en regresar y mis padres todavía estaban a lector and commentator. The fi rst day trabajando”. “The fi rst day I ever read was the day of my Con- I ever read Fue durante este tiempo que el potencial “Salutato- ‘‘ ‘ ‘ fi rmation. That was the start of a new chapter in my was the day rian”‘ comenzó a sobresalir académicamente. life at the end of my freshman year in high school. of my Con- “Comencé a mejorar mucho en la escuela, pero After then, I started fi rmation. no me sentía cumplido. Necesitaba algo más”, working a lot at the That was the agregó Silvestre. “Comencé a ir a las Misas en church.” start of a new inglés y escuchaba las lecturas y los sermones. Sylvester contin- chapter in my Entonces el Padre Chema (Rev. José M. Guevara) ues serving Sacred life at the end me pidió que fuera un acomodador en la Iglesia del Heart Parish and of my fresh- Sagrado Corazón. Entonces me preguntaron que si has added CCD man year in quería estar en el Coro, así es que me fui al Coro. teacher aide to his ‘‘‘high school. Y después me pidieron que fuera Lector y Comen- long list of duties. After then, I tador. La primera vez que había leído fue el día de Like JJ, the stu- started work- mi Confi rmación. Eso fue el comienzo de un nuevo dent council presi- ing a lot at ccapítulo en mi vida, al fi nal de mi primer año de dent and National the church. ppreparatoria. Después de eso comencé a trabajar Honor Society vice mucho en la Iglesia.” president has also Sylvester continúa sirviendo a la Parroquia del

La Fe Magazine 16 January/February 2007

LF0107front.indd 16 1/11/07 4:30:07 PM been on the receiving end of the “goody-two-shoes” Sagrado Corazón y ha remarks. agregado el trabajo de Ayu- “Silver the next priest,” he recounted. “That’s the dante de Maestro de CCD way I used to get teased a lot, especially during a su larga lista de deberes. my sophomore year and it was usually people who Como JJ, el Presidente didn’t like me who were making fun of me about del Consejo Estudiantil becoming a priest.” y Vicepresidente de la Eventually, the intellectual Sociedad Nacional de “Nowadays, ev- Sylvester defended himself Honor, también ha estado eryone asks me with a clever retort. recibiendo comentarios if I want to be a “At fi rst, it bothered me. But de elogio. priest. My father then I started telling them so “Silver, el próximo sacer- asks me, Fr. what if I am, there’s nothing dote,” son comentaba. “Así Chema asks me wrong with becoming a priest.” es como me bromeaban and even people There are others, however, mucho, especialmente I meet for the fi rst who are fond of Sylvester and durante mi segundo año de time tell me that recognize his wonderful at- preparatoria, y normalmente era de personas que no me querían, que I have that priest tributes. estaba burlándose de mí por llegar a querer ser sacerdote.” intuition” “Nowadays, everyone asks Eventualmente, el intelectual Sylvester se defendía con una con- me if I want to be a priest. testación bien pensada. My father asks me, Fr. Chema asks me and even “Al principio me molestaba. Pero comencé a decirles: ¿Y qué si de people I meet for the fi rst time tell me that I have veras lo soy? No hay nada malo en llegar a ser sacerdote.” that priest intuition,” he said. “Even girls that I’m Hay otros, sin embargo, que quieren a Syslvester, y reconocen sus fond of, girls that I would like to date, tell me that maravillosos atributos. I should become a priest and that they like me like “Hoy en día, todos me preguntan que si quiero ser sacerdote. Mi a brother. The girls tell me that it’s a compliment padre me lo pregunta. Fr. Chema me pregunta y aún personas que so I take it that way and I’ve thought about the me encuentro por primera me dicen que tengo la intuición sacerdo- priesthood.” tal”, dice él. “Aún las muchachas a las que estimo, muchachas con las Another reason many of his peers opine about the que quisiera tener una cita, me dicen que debo hacerme sacerdote y vocation stems from his introverted lifestyle. que me quieren como a un hermano. Las muchachas me dicen que “I think the reason they say that to me is be- es un cumplido, así es que así lo interpreto y he pensado acerca del cause I’m not very social and I don’t go to parties sacerdocio.” and stuff like that,” explained Sylvester. “I’ve never Otra razón por la que muchos de sus iguales opinen acerca de la had a girlfriend but that doesn’t mean that I’m not vocación, surge de su estilo de vida introvertida interested in having one. I’m still looking for the “Yo creo que la razón por la que me dicen eso, es porque no soy muy right one. I don’t want to date just for the heck of social y no asisto a fi estas y cosas como esas,” explica Sylvester. it. I want to date with a purpose in mind. I want a “Nunca he tenido una amistad femenina, pero eso no signifi ca que no good relationship.” estoy interesado en tener una- Todavía estoy buscando la adecuada. No Sylvester derived his mature perspective on dat- quiero tener una cita simplemente por tenerla. Quiero tener una cita con ing through Catholic teachings and from his active un propósito en la mente. Quiero una buena relación de amistad. role in the peer-to-peer program Students Taking Sylvester deriva su perspectiva madura sobre las citas, a través de Action for Respect (STAR), which advocates for las enseñanzas Católicas y de su papel activo en el programa de igual a sexual awareness and fi ghts against sexual abuse. igual de Estudiante Tomando Acción para Respeto (STAR) que respalda “Part of my STAR certifi cation at Texas State la conciencia sexual y la lucha contra el abuso sexual. University in San Marcos included attending a dat- “Parte de mi certifi cación STAR en la Universidad de Texas en San ing seminar that taught me that I need to love my- Marcos, incluyendo la asistencia a un seminario sobre citas, me enseño self fi rst before I can love someone else,” Sylvester que necesito amarme a mí mismo antes de que pueda amar a alguien said. “And I mean love myself in a good way, like mas,” dijo Sylvester. “Y amarme a mí mismo de una manera buena, having good self esteem and being secure and not como teniendo una buena auto estimación y con la seguridad de no getting jealous. I realized, though, that the only sentir celos. Me di cuenta, sin embargo, que la única forma de amarte a way to love your-self fully is to love God.” ti mismo completamente es amar a Dios.” Sylvester and JJ are two teenagers carrying the Sylvester y JJ son dos adolescentes que llevan la antorcha que torch leading others on the right path and the one guía a otros por el sendero correcto y defi nitivamente el menos defi nitely less traveled by their peers. Their actions viajado por sus iguales. Sus acciones personifi can nuestro tema para personify our theme for this issue – faithfulness. esta edición – fi delidad.

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(L-R) Jessica Cavazos, Gaby Arellano and Ana Maldonado visit with vendors at the conference.

Rev. Deacon José López of Sacred Heart Parish in Crystal City reads from the Book of Gospels.

Region 10 Catholic Youth Conference

Felix Cruz, a parishioner at San Luis Rey in Laredo, portrayed Participants Juan Diego during the opening ceremony of the conference. from the Dio- cese of Amarillo shout words of praise during the Region 10 conference.

Photography by Keynote speaker Rosa Guerrero emphasizes her Goyo López message of cultural heritage

NickLa Rodriguez Fe Magazine of18 Our January/February Lady of Guadalupe 2007 Parsih in Carrizo Springs A Region 10 participant in ﬁ esta mode during played the keyboards as part of the musical entertainment. the outdoor party at the LEC.

LF0107front.indd 18 1/11/07 4:30:16 PM saint of the month santo del mes Executed for Ejecutado por causa de his faith – twice su fe - dos veces Saint Sebastian San Sebastián

Birthplace: ty Narbonne, Gaul Lugar de nacimiento: Narbona, Galia Feast Day: Jan. 20 Día del Santo: 20 de enero Patron of athletes, Patrono de los Atletas, Soldados, Policías y soldiers, police and Médicos physicians Lo que lo hizo famoso: Claim to Fame: De acuerdo a la tradición, Sebastián nació en el According to tradition, siglo tercero. Cuando era niño asistió a la escuela Sebastian was born in the en Milán. Siendo joven le comenzó a preocupar la third century. He attended persecución de los Cristianos. Deseando encon- school in Milan, Italy, as trar oportunidades para alentarlos, en el año 283, a boy. When he was a Sebastián se alistó en el ejército romano. Mientras young man, Sebastian que guardaba su propio cristianismo como un became concerned about secreto para los superiores del ejército, él discre- the persecution of Chris- tamente convertía a muchos romanos. Cuando tians. Hoping to fi nd op- las amenazas de persecución se intensifi caron, d portunities to encourage Sebastián encubiertamente instó a los cristianos . them, Sebastian joined que fl aqueaban a que se mantuvieran fi eles a la fe the Roman army in 283. cristiana. While keeping his own Christianity a secret from Su mejor cita: army leaders, he discreetly converted many Romans. Sebas- Aunque no tenemos documentación de las palabras tian also covertly urged wavering Christians to remain true to de Sebastián, se dice que él se le apareció en una their faith as the threat of persecution escalated. visión a una mujer cristiana llamada Lucina. Cuando se enteró del martirio de Sebastián, ella rescató su Best quote: Although we have no record of Sebastian’s cuerpo y lo enterró apropiadamente en las catacum- words, it is said that he appeared in a vision to a Christian bas, un cementerio subterráneo debajo de la ciudad woman named Lucina. When she learned of Sebastian’s de Roma. martyrdom, she recovered his body and had it properly buried in the catacombs, an underground Christian cemetery beneath Forma en la que murió: the city of Rome. Cuando fi nalmente se descubrió la verdadera fe de Sebastián, el emperador Dioclesiano lo condenó a How he died: When Sebastian’s faith was eventually muerte. Atado a una estaca, le lanzaron fl echas. Sus discovered, he was sentenced to death by Emperor Diocletian. verdugos lo dieron por muerto, pero Sebastián so- Tied to a stake, Sebastian was shot with arrows. His execu- brevivió. Una viuda cristiana llamada Irene que había tioners left him for dead, but he survived. A Christian widow venido a enterrarlo, lo cuidó hasta que se repuso. named Irene, who had come to bury Sebastian, nursed him Sin dejarse intimidar por los sufrimientos anteriores, back to health instead. Undeterred by his previous suffering, Sebastián encaró a Dioclesiano y denunció sus Sebastian confronted Diocletian and denounced his atrocities atrocidades contra el Cristianismo. El emperador against Christianity. The emperor was surprised to see Se- se sorprendió de ver a Sebastián vivo, pero no se bastian alive, but the ruler did not repent. Instead, he ordered arrepintió. En cambio, ordenó que lo apalearan hasta Sebastian to be beaten to death with clubs, and his body matarlo y que arrojaran su cuerpo en una alcantarilla. thrown into a sewer. Oración: Prayer: Dear Saint Sebastian, you chose to be a soldier Querido San Sebastián, elegiste ser soldado de Cris- of Christ and dared to spread the faith – for which you were to y te atreviste a divulgar la fe del Rey de Reyes por condemned to die. May we have the same strength of faith. lo que te condenaron a muerte. Haz que tengamos tu Amen. – Jan Rynearson misma fortaleza en la fe. Amén. – Escrito por Transline USA.

LF0107front.indd 19 1/11/07 4:30:50 PM profile

Stephanie Hechter wins National recognition

his past Christmas was special for Stephanie Hechter, a sixth-grade student at St. Augustine School in Laredo. “This is one Christmas that I’ll remember forever,” said Stephanie. “Every Christ- mas is special, but this one is extra-special.” Stephanie traveled to Washington, D.C., in mid-December to be offi cially recog- Tnized as a national winner in the Holy Childhood Association art contest. HCA works to provide young Catholics with ning entries then appear on HCA’s programs and materials that give their faith a global Christmas cards. perspective and an opportunity to grow in faith “Winning the contest was cool through mission education, sacrifi ce and service. but then to have Bishop Tamayo As students learn about children in the missions, they use my artwork for his offi cial are inspired to put an im- Christmas card was even better,” portant part of their faith explained Stephanie. “Everyone into action by following who got a card from the bishop Jesus’ example of concern got to see my winning entry of for others. baby Jesus in the manger.” Annually, HCA spon- Bishop Tamayo touted the sors an artwork contest talent that the diocese offers on for students enrolled in many levels. Catholic schools and in “Stephanie is one shining CCD/RE programs from example of the gifts granted which 24 winners are to each of us by our Creator,” selected. The 24 win- said Bishop Tamayo. “I am

Written by Goyo López | Photography by Eddie Arrossi Le Fe Magazine 20 January/February 2006

LF0107back.indd 20 1/11/07 4:37:19 PM “This is one Christmas that I’ll remember forever. Every Christmas is special, but this one is ex-

tra-special.”

extremely proud to have her art adorn the cover of my Christmas cards.” Operating since 1916, HCA initially promoted the sale of its Christmas seals as a fundraiser for the

missions. Now, it focuses on the sales of its Christmas cards to support the work of spreading the love of “Stephanie Jesus and his message of peace to children in the mis- has maded the sions. In its purest sense, this program involves young entire com- Catholics to help mission children internationally. Accompanying Stephanie on the trip to Washington munity very ‘‘ ‘ ‘ was classmate Daniela Santos, St. Augustine princi- proud and ‘ pal Olga Gentry and the superintendent of Catholic has given schools, Dr. Rosa Maria Vida. us national Stephanie, and fi ve additional winners, were recognized prominence. at a special Mass at the Shrine of the Immaculate Concep- Stephanie’s tion on Dec. 14. Rev. Msgr. John E. Kozar, national director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, was the ‘‘‘art teacher, principal celebrant of the Mass. Ms. Ana Tor- “This is an exceptional honor for Stephanie, St. res, should Augustine School and the Diocese of Laredo,” said Dr. know that she Vida. “Stephanie has made the entire community very was veryy well proud and has given us national prominence. Stepha- represented.”esented.” nie’s art teacher, Ms. Ana Torres, should know that she was very well represented.” Gentry also noted the overwhelming beauty of the Basilica. “The Basilica itself is magnifi cent, but the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose feast day was two days prior, was fi lled with roses in observance of her birthday,” said Gentry. “The scent of the roses fi lled the air and the altar was completely covered with fl owers making it a sight to behold.”

LF0107back.indd 21 1/11/07 4:37:26 PM profile

ishop James A. Tamayo ordained the second group of deacons in the history of the Di- ocese of Laredo at San Agustín B Cathedral on Dec. 9, 2006. In all, there have been four diaconate ordina- tions in the Diocese of Laredo, including a previous group and two individuals. Six permanent and one transitional deacon com- prise the recently ordained group. A transitional Diaconate deacon is one who is a candidate for the priesthood. Bishop Tamayo announced at the Mass that the newly ordained deacons would continue serving in their respective parishes. Ordinationat Cathedral The newly ordained deacons include: Transitional Deacon

Gerardo Silos Age: 40 Birthplace: Mexico Parish Assignment: San Agustín Cathedral

Permanent Deacons

Roderick A. Bordelon Age: 75 Widower Parish Assignment: St. Patrick – Laredo Frank Huerta Age: 47 Wife: Frances Huerta Parish Assignment: Sacred Heart – Crystal City Joe N. Longoria Age: 56 Wife: Sylvia Longoria Parish Assignment: St. Patrick – Laredo Antonio H. Rivera, M.D. Age: 62 Wife: Gloria Rivera Parish Assignment: Sacred Heart – Crystal City Guadalupe Rodriguez, Jr. Age: 41 Wife: Fiona Rodriguez Parish Assignment: Our Lady of Guadalupe – Hebbronville Frank Solansky Age: 68 Wife: Lynne Solansky Parish Assignment: Sacred Heart – Crystal City

Article and Photography by Goyo López Le Fe 22 October/November 2006

LF0107back.indd 22 1/11/07 4:37:33 PM parentingparenting journey journey el camino my child is NOT my best mi hijo NO es mi mejor friend – how being a parent is amigo – cómo ser padre es dife- different from being a friend rente a ser amigo

enjoyed watching Jessica Fletcher of e disfrutado de ver a Jessica Fletcher resolver crímenes, y Murder She Wrote solve crimes, and ahora veo a Monk en la televisión, así que de buen grado now I watch Monk, so I was a willing acepté participar cuando mi hijo Ryan quería analizar mis participant when my son Ryan wanted huellas digitales después de la cena. ¡Los “cuentos de Ito analyze my fi ngerprints after dinner. The gusanos”H de su clase de ciencia forense en la escuela secundaria tuvieron “maggot tales” from his high-school forensics que esperar hasta que estuviéramos lejos de la mesa, sin embargo! Para class had to wait until we were far from the el examen fi nal los estudiantes tenían que buscar pistas en una “escena table, however! For the fi nal exam, students del crimen.” Más tarde me enteré que el caso consistía de una víctima searched for clues in a “crime scene.” Later, I learned that asesinada que había estado operando un negocio lucrativo de videos the case involved a murder victim who had been running a pornográfi cos. Se colocaron pistas de mal gusto relacionadas con la vida lucrative pornographic video business. Distasteful clues to the secreta de la víctima para que fueran descubiertas por los estudiantes. Para victim’s hidden life had been planted for students to discover. la gran consternación de mi hijo, decidí contactar a los funcionarios de la I decided to contact school offi cials about the fi nal, much escuela en conexión con este examen. Los padres y sus hijos adolescentes to my son’s dismay. But parents and their teenage children no son amigos, a pesar de lo mucho que nos amamos. aren’t friends, as much as we love each another. Padres y amigos establecen distintos Parents and friends have tipos derelaciones. different types of relationships. Padres e hijos tienen una relación jerárquica. Hay una diferencia Parents and children have a hierarchical relationship. There de autoridad, y a veces los padres toman decisiones difíciles para el is a difference in authority, and sometimes parents make benefi cio de sus hijos; ¿se acuerdan de las primeras vacunaciones? A diffi cult decisions in their children’s best interests; remember lo largo de sus vidas, nuestros hijos interactuarán con otras personas those fi rst vaccinations? Throughout their lives, our children estableciendo relaciones jerárquicas, como con los supervisores en el will interact with others in hierarchical relationships, such as trabajo. Con los amigos nos relacionamos como iguales. Cada una de supervisors at work. With friends, we interact as equals. Each estas relaciones nos enriquecen. type of relationship is enriching. Los asuntos de la vida diaria suponen Everyday life issues involve limits. la presencia de límites. Many bids for independence are negotiated. As “friendly” Muchos de los intentos para lograr independencia son negociados. as these discussions are, parents still set limits. Daily life Aunque estas discusiones pueden ser muy “amistosas”, los padres todavía helps us realize that we are parents, not friends. The cleanli- establecen límites. La vida diaria nos ayuda a darnos cuenta de que somos ness of a teen’s bedroom is often a sore spot. Whose space padres, no amigos. La limpieza del dormitorio de un adolescente es con is this anyway? Listen and be ready to compromise. For frecuencia un tema delicado. ¿A quién le pertenece este espacio, de todas example, some clutter might be OK, but bug-attracting maneras? Escuchen y prepárense para transigir. Por ejemplo, un poco leftover food might not be. Set consequences that you de desorden se puede aceptar pero los desechos de comida que atraen won’t be too tired to enforce! bichos serían inaceptables. ¡No establezcan las consecuencias que no se Activities of teens need to be monitored. puedan imponer cuando estén cansados! As they get older, teens make more decisions. It Las actividades de los adolescentes helps them become competent adults. Experience deben ser controladas. can be a great teacher when something doesn’t A medida que crecen, los adolescentes toman más decisio- work and you, as parent, are there to help fi x it. nes. Esto los ayuda a transformarse en adultos competentes. La To become self-reliant, a person makes choices. experiencia puede enseñarnos mucho cuando algo no funciona But this takes place within parental safety limits. y nosotros como padres estamos allí presentes para arreglarlo. When parents don’t monitor the activities of their Para llegar a ser independiente una persona tiene que tomar teens, because of indulgence (we’re like best friends!) decisiones, pero esto ocurre dentro de los límites de seguridad or indifference, then it is actually more diffi cult for de los padres. Cuando los padres no controlan las actividades de teens to mature. sus hijos adolescentes, ya sea por complacencia (¡somos como me- Proverbs (29:17) says, “Discipline your son, and he jores amigos!) o por indiferencia, es cuando en realidad se les hace will give you peace; he will bring delight to your soul.” más difícil a los adolescentes madurar. Encourage your adolescents to walk in the light and to Proverbios (29:17) dice, “Corrige a tu hijo, y te dará consuelo; y te listen for the whisper of the Holy Spirit in their lives. sentirás feliz por él.” Alienten a los adolescentes para que caminen en la – Dr. Cathleen McGreal luz y escuchen el susurro del Espíritu Santo en sus vidas.

LF0107back.indd 23 1/11/07 4:37:50 PM your marriage matters

usan and Dan romance have been He said married for 25 years. Their Sromantic relationship She said Dance the what do they do? night away has been suffering One eve- ning (or more) per week, after tionship special again? the kids are in First and foremost, bed, turn on your favorite we must prioritize the music and dance marital relationship. together. Hold- the romance he may That means spend- ing your beloved ing time together and talking to has fi zzled be right without children him or her is wonderfully Dan says: Susan and I have been Susan says: Dan’s right. I or others. Hav- intimate. married for a long time – I don’t don’t think either one of us ing time to talk about your re- money know, maybe too long. We used to feels the “glow” anymore. do a lot of fun things on the week- After 25 years, we may just be lationship and ends, and Susan would show me bored. Sometimes, after we’ve time to talk how much she found me attractive completed all the essential some more is in little ways – notes in my lunch, conversation of the day – what very important. seeing action movies that I know the kids need, what bills need If you have lost Save, save, she doesn’t really like. Now, it’s just to be paid – there is no time this contact with save routine all the time – all we ever or energy left. I’d really rather each other, try It’s hard to talk about is the kids. I don’t feel just watch TV and unwind, or to spend several do when the bills ‘dates’ or alone- are looming. as if we have anything in common maybe read. Perhaps we have Either pay the anymore. been married too long. time doing just savings account that. Spend fi rst (5 percent- time reminiscing 10 percent of Dan and Susan are not the fi rst couple who have about why you your income) or been married this long. Twenty-fi ve years is a long came together in have it automatically deposited time. Marriages that have lasted that long often need special care the fi rst place. to a savings ac- along the way. Both the man and the woman in long-term relation- Remember that count from your ships get used to caring for others. Usually, it’s the children and having a mutu- payroll. If you sometimes other family members. Often they neglect each other, ally support- don’t see it, you taking each other for granted. What can we do to make the rela- ive and won’t spend it!

Le Fe Magazine 24 January/February 2006

LF0107back.indd 24 1/11/07 4:38:16 PM communication time

empathetic relationship is the desired important. Depending on each partner’s goal. That means each person takes style, this may also take some time to re- turns talking with honesty and listening develop the glow. Sometimes, by acting You have Schedule the fl oor with empathy. Talk about your feelings as romantic as you were at the begin- some time If you and thoughts. This allows each partner ning of your relationship, the reality will together. don’t feel you to listen to the other person and confi rm follow. Planning can get a word the other’s feelings, while allowing a These techniques work well for part- is preparation, in edgewise, try connection to their own feelings. This ners who need to connect again. If the but scheduling using a small is commitment. fl oor tile or oth- creates a mutually supportive relation- issues are deeper, a series of counseling Once the time er object as a ship that is positive for both partners. sessions may be necessary. This helps slot is agreed to, modern version This ‘connection’ builds trust and get the little-used techniques of com- write it down in of the “speak- mutual respect, the foundation of loving munication back in shape, just like a more than one ing stick.” If you relationships. Again, this talking and personal trainer helps us get back in place. Write “have the fl oor,” it down in red you get to speak listening may take several different pri- good physical shape. I would encourage ink at work, at – uninterrupted. vate times. Try not to rush this process. all partners to try counseling before they home on the When you pass Become friends again. take any next step. Dan and Susan talk refrigerator the fl oor tile, the If this empathetic listening and talk- about maybe being married “too long.” door calendar, next speaker ing work in creating mutual trust and Please don’t draw that conclusion too on your PDA, echoes what on your daily you’ve said so respect, love may bloom again. Having early without trying professional help. planner, and on that you know you a good friend in your marital partner is Most relationships can be helped with your computer were heard – and a great start to getting the ‘glow’ back. outside assistance. Twenty-fi ve years are calendar. Label then it’s his or The next step is pretty easy. Start to date worth saving. it: “Marriage her turn to speak Time.” – without you again. Spend time relaxing and holding interrupting. each other. Alone time is again really – Deborah McCormack

LF0107back.indd 25 1/11/07 4:38:31 PM spiritual fitness In a chat room with God prayer is our “instant message” with Jesus

pleasure as true slavery. St Augustine tried to talk to God during this time, but he couldn’t connect – God seemed very distant. Augustine realized that his own immoral behavior was creating the block. He would pray, “Lord give me chastity and temperance, but not yet.” It was kind of a joke, but also a real expression of his inner struggle. He was in deep pain and yearned for the love only God could give. One remember the fi rst time I experienced IM (for those day, he was with his young son and some who may be computer illiterate, that stands for “instant friends and was experiencing sadness and messaging”). It was strange to know that a friend on an- frustration over his inner struggle. He sat down underneath a fi g tree and was other computer far away was communicating with me crying to God over his trouble. Then he Ithrough the Internet in real time. I would type something, heard a voice of a young child sing, “Tolle, then a minute or so later, a response would show up on the lege,” which means, “Take up and read.” screen. Not so long ago, I witnessed the fi rst marriage of two The voice captured him – he knew it was God. Augustine took up the Sacred people who met over the Internet in a Christian chat room. Scriptures that were right beside him and They fell in love. It led to a face-to-face meeting and then to there, from St Paul’s letter to the Ro- a lifelong commitment before God. mans, he read, “Let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day, not in orgies and It is wonderful to see relationships grow. people all around the world, but it cannot drunkenness, not in promiscuity and Love deepens. People begin to connect emo- connect us to God. licentiousness, not in rivalry and jealousy. tionally and spiritually. We can feel very close Fortunately, God has ‘wired us’ for But put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make to another person. God wants this for all of God. no provision for the desires of the fl esh.” us, for where there is true love, there is the Our relationship with God is the Augustine’s life changed dramatically at kingdom and there is God! Even more won- most important relationship of our lives, this point, and so did his prayer life! He derful is that God wants this close connection for it is the one that saves us. Many learned to talk to God. Here is one of the to happen between us and God. Jesus said people have struggles as they build this many beautiful passages that St Augustine “Whoever loves me will keep my word, and relationship – hang in there! God is wrote about his experience in his book, my Father will love him, and we will come to pursuing us and meets us where we are. The Confessions: him and make our dwelling with him.” (John There is a great saint I have grown to Late have I loved you, Beauty ever 14:23) One of the admire who had lots of trouble form- ancient and ever new! Late have I loved great myster- ing his own relationship with God. His you! ... You shone upon me; your radi- ies of our faith name is St Augustine. ance enveloped me; you put my blind- is that God Augustine grew up in North Africa and ness to fl ight. You shed your fragrance dwells within had a lot of freedom as a teenager. When about me; I drew breath and now I gasp us. Deep within he was 16, he met a girl and fell in love. for your sweet odor. I tasted you, and us is the ideal Within two years, he had a child with now I hunger and thirst for you. You “chat room” her out of wedlock. He knew he had touched me, and I am infl amed with love where we meet acted badly, but continued to struggle of your peace. (Book X, 27) God. Modern with all the temptations and freedom Augustine learned how to have a technology can of his culture. Later, he would see this deep, lasting, rich, fruitful prayer life connect us with “freedom” to indulge in sensuality and with God. So can we.

FAITH Magazine 26 September 2006

LF0107back.indd 26 1/11/07 4:38:40 PM AugustineAug realized that his own immoral behavior was creating the block. He would pray, “Lord give me chastity and temperance, but not yet.” It was kind of a joke, but also a real expression of his inner struggle.

¡Este mes nuestro Ejercicio Espiritual es pasar un poco de tiempo en el cuarto de conversaciones de Dios!

Todas las relaciones necesitan Our spiritual exercise 1 que se invierta tiempo en ellas. this month is to spend time Así como se invierte tiempo en con- in the God chat room! versar en el Internet, inviertan tiempo Comiencen la oración “En el en hablarle a Dios. Yo sugiero que 4 nombre del Padre, del Hijo y del All relationships need comiencen con 15 minutos por día por Espíritu Santo….” Les sugeriría que 1 an investment of time. lo menos. recen el Padrenuestro. Una vez, cuan- Just like there is an investment of do los Apóstoles vieron a Jesús orando, time in Internet chatting, make an Busquen un lugar para orarle ellos también quisieron aprender a orar, investment of time to talk to God. 2 a Dios. Para seguir con esta así que Jesús les dio la oración que I suggest at least 15 minutes a analogía, llamaré este lugar el “cuarto nosotros llamamos el Padrenuestro. day or more to begin. de conversación de Dios.” Esto es muy Contiene todo lo que necesitamos. Find the place where importante. El cuarto de conversación 2 you can pray to God. For de Dios es un lugar tranquilo donde Recen lentamente. No se apresuren the sake of this analogy, I will call puedas estar a solas con Dios. Debe ser para terminar. El objetivo es encontrar- this place the “God chat room.” un lugar donde puedas ser tú mismo sin nos con Dios, no es ver si podemos This is very important. The God ninguna preocupación. decir las palabras más rápido. Es- chat room is a quiet place where ¡Muy bien, una vez que hayan encon- cuchen. Si se atascan, pueden decírselo you can be alone with just you trado un lugar para orar, ahora comienza a Dios, “Dios querido estoy atasacado. and God. It should be a place la parte más apasionante! ¡Ayúdame!” Los alentaría a que lean un where you can be yourself with- pasaje de las Escrituras, en algún mo- out any worries. Tomen en cuenta con quién es mento mientras estén orando, porque OK, once you have found a 3 que están hablando. Algunas per- esa es la palabra de Dios dirigida a place to pray, the exciting part sonas se ponen nerviosas cuando llegan nosotros. Refl exionen sobre lo que begins! a esta etapa porque no están seguros hayan leído. Terminen agradeciéndole Consider who you are de qué deben hacer ahora. Surgen pre- a Dios el tiempo que le dedicaron a 3 talking to. Some people guntas: ¿Cómo debo hablarle a Dios? la oración y ruégenle para que les dé get nervous at this stage because ¿Qué le digo? la gracia de orar mañana otra vez. No they are not sure what to do next. Está bien tener estas preocupacio- dejen que el diálogo se interrumpa. Questions arise: How can I speak nes. Pero déjenlas de lado por ahora. Algunas personas encuentran útil llevar to God? What do I say? Piensen, en cambio, en quiénes son ust- un diario de oraciones y anotan lo que It is OK to have these worries. edes y con quién es que están a punto ocurre durante la oración. Put them aside for now. Think de hablar. Ustedes son los hijos de La oración, como toda relación, requi- instead about who you are and Dios. Dios los ama. Dios no cambia de ere tiempo. No se den por vencidos. El who you are about to talk to. You parecer con respecto a eso. Dios no es premio es una relación con Dios que are God’s child. God loves you. inconstante, amándolos un día y dejando salva vidas, las cambia, las sustenta y God does not change his mind de amarlos al siguiente. dura toda la vida. about that. God is not fi ckle, one day loving you and the next not. Begin your prayer “In 4 the name of the Father, Pray slowly. Don’t worry about rushing time of prayer and pray for the grace to Son, and Holy Spirit ... ” I to get through. Your goal is to meet God, pray again tomorrow. Keep the dialogue would suggest praying the Our not see how fast you can say the words. going. Some people have found it helpful Father. When the Apostles saw Listen. If you get stuck, you can tell God to keep a prayer journal and record what Jesus praying one time, they so, “Dear God I am stuck. Help me!” I occurs during prayer. wanted to learn how to pray too, would encourage you to read a Scripture Prayer, like all relationships, takes time. so Jesus gave them the prayer passage sometime during your prayer for Don’t give up. The reward is a lifelong, we call the Our Father. It has it is God’s word to us. Refl ect on what you life-changing, life-sustaining, life-saving everything in it we need. have read. End by thanking God for your relationship with God. – Fr. Bill Ashbaugh

LF0107back.indd 27 1/11/07 4:38:48 PM work life vida de trabajo what do I want to be ¿qué voy a ser cuando when I grow up? sea grande? ohmigosh, am I a grown-up? ¡Dios mío! ¿ya soy grande?

a otra noche mis amigos y yo estábamos senta- y friends and I were sitting around the other dos hablando de la universidad y de las distintas night talking about college and careers. profesiones. Casi todos ya han enviado solicitudes de Almost everyone has been applying to different col- ingreso a varias universidades. Hablaban de ingeniería, leges already. They were talking about engineering, Larquitectura, enfermería, cocina, etc. Pero yo no dije nada - me Marchitecture, nursing, cooking, etc. But, I didn’t saying anything – I asusté porque yo no estoy seguro de qué es lo que quiero hacer. got scared because I’m not sure what I want to do! I haven’t been Hasta ahora no he pensado sobre el futuro, solamente he estado thinking about the future, I’ve just been having fun in high school. divirtiéndome en la secundaria. Ahora, de repente, se supone que Now, all of a sudden, I’m supposed to be making decisions that are debo tomar decisiones que van a afectar el resto de mi vida. No going to affect the rest of my life. I’m not sure what I’m really good estoy seguro para qué sería yo realmente bueno. Creo que me at. I kind of like writing, but everyone tells me that it’s tough to make gusta escribir, pero todos me dicen que es difícil ganarse la vida es- a living at it and I need to be more practical. I don’t know what I’m cribiendo y que necesito ser más práctico. No sé qué debo hacer. supposed to do. I don’t think I’m ready for this! ¡Creo que no estoy preparado para enfrentar esto! The expert says: Author Peter Senge writes about a con- cept called personal mastery (Fifth Discipline Fieldbook). This is El autor Peter Senge escribe sobre un concepto llamado Dominio the process of developing a personal vision. But, it’s not as easy Personal (“Fifth Discipline Fieldbook”, en español: Disciplina, Quinto as picking a vision in one day and then chasing it. A personal vi- Libro de Campo). Se refi ere al proceso necesario para desarrollar una sion may take a while to develop. visión personal. Pero no consiste solamente en fácilmente elejir una visión Having a vision doesn’t necessarily mean that we know exactly personal y luego ir en busca de ella. Desarrollar la visión de uno mismo what’s going to happen or where we’re going in life. It may be puede llevar tiempo. Tener la visión no signifi ca necesariamente saber fuzzy at fi rst, but it provides us with a sense of direction that exactamente qué es lo que va a suceder o saber adónde nos dirigimos en automatically guides our thoughts and actions to help us gradually la vida. La visión puede aparecer borrosa al principio, pero nos infunde un refi ne the vision. The challenge is to constantly develop a mind-set sentido de orientación que automáticamente guía nuestros pensamientos that opens us to the vision so we can act accordingly. y acciones para ayudarnos gradualmente a perfeccionar esa visión. El Although Senge doesn’t write about spiritual matters, I think the desafío está en desarrollar constantemente una forma de pensar que nos process he is describing is the same as prayer. dé acceso a la visión de manera que podamos actuar de acuerdo a ella. Prayer is how we become what God needs us to be. Prayer is Aunque Senge no escribe sobre asuntos espirituales, yo pienso que el not about trying to infl uence God’s actions; it’s about recognizing proceso que él está describiendo es lo mismo que la oración. La oración God’s actions in our lives and how we need to respond. es la forma en que nosotros nos transformamos en lo que Dios quiere que Just as personal mastery is a gradual process, seek- seamos. Por medio de la oración no tratamos de infl uenciar las acciones ing God’s purpose is gradual and rooted in prayer. We de Dios; la oración reconoce las acciones de Dios en nuestras vidas y la don’t pray just once and expect it to happen tomorrow; forma en la que tenemos que responder. prayer is a continual process of drawing ourselves Así como el Dominio Personal es un proceso gradual, la búsqueda del closer and closer to God’s vision for our lives. propósito de Dios también es gradual y está enraizado en la oración. Jesus taught us to be persistent in prayer: Nosotros no oramos solo una vez y esperamos que todo suceda “Ask and you will receive, seek and you shall mañana. La oración es el proceso continuado por medio del cual nos impulsamos a nosotros mismos, más y más cerca, a la visión que fi nd ...” (Luke 11:8-11) Dios tiene de nuestras vidas. How do I know what God Jesús nos enseñó a perseverar en la oración: “Pidan y se les dará, wants me to do? busquen y hallarán ...” (Lucas 11:8-11) • God does have a plan for you. • Pray, pray, pray. Note preocupes Keith, simplemente • Let go of what this world says will recuerda que: make you happy. • Dios tiene un plan para tí. • Seek the wisdom necessary to follow • Ora, ora, ora. God’s plan, and you shall fi nd it. • No te aferres a lo que el mundo dice que • Be patient; God will reveal each step in the te hará feliz. plan when you are ready. • Busca la sabiduría necesaria para seguir el plan de Dios y tú encontrarás el plan. – Tim Ryan • Sé paciente, Dios te revelará cada paso del plan cuando tú estés listo.

Le Fe Magazine 28 January/February 2006

LF0107back.indd 28 1/11/07 4:39:00 PM local news

Stewardship Calvary Cem- seminar in Laredo etery Celebrates All Souls Day Rev. Daniel J. Mahan visited Laredo in October and presented a two-day Hundreds of Cath- seminar on stewardship. olics from throughout Fr. Mahan, a priest in the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, is the executive Laredo gathered at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery for director of the Marian College Center for Catholic Stewardship. a special All Souls Day Mass with Rev. Stan Bieniek as The seminar covered varied topics such as the defi nition of stew- the celebrant. Rev. Toribio Guerrero concelebrated the ard, the explanation of spirituality and correlating both themes into a Mass with Rev. Deacon Miguel Vallarta, Rev. Deacon positive attitude and lifestyle. Edmundo López and Rev. Deacon David Vargas as- Fr. Mahan also discussed how stewardship is a powerful remedy to sisting. Mrs. Rosa Aldape, director of Calvary Catholic counter the seductive infl uences upon us today like individualism, materi- Cemetery, organizes the annual outdoor Eucharistic alism, relativism, hedonism, atheism and nihilism. celebration. Visit Fr. Mahan’s Web site at www.morethansilverorgold.com to learn more about his message on stewardship. 6th Annual Red Mass Former president speaks at STARS event Members of the federal and state judi- Former Mexican president Ernesto Zedillo ciary, state and local spoke at the annual fundraiser for the South offi cials, as well as the various bar associations of the Texas Academic Rising Scholars (STARS) counties comprising the Diocese of Laredo – includ- held in October at the Laredo Country Club. ing Webb, Maverick, Dimmit, Zavala, La Salle, Zapata The event, organized by Steve & Linda and Jim Hogg counties – gathered at San Agustín LaMantia, raises money for academic scholar- Cathedral for the sixth annual Red Mass on Oct. 3, ships available to collegiate students who are 2006, marking the beginning of the judicial year. South Texas natives. Rev. Francisco Leon, Rev. Msgr. Stanley Sliwiak celebrated the Mass OSA, pastor of Holy Redeemer Parish in Lar- and former Laredoan Antonio Alvarado, the immedi- edo, delivered the invocation for the event. ate past executive director of the State Bar of Texas, shared his personal KHOY Fundraiser spiritual refl ections on theology and the law. KHOY 88.1 FM, Catholic radio for Laredo and South Texas, held its Northern Deanery annual fundraiser during the fi rst week of Youth Gathering November with great success. Operated by the nonprofi t Laredo Catholic Com- The parishes of the northern deanery in the munications, Inc., KHOY reached its goal of $50,000 in pledges. This Diocese of Laredo gathered at Our Lady of Gua- marks the most successful fundraising campaign in the station’s 21-year dalupe Parish in Carrizo Springs for a youth rally history. KHOY operates 24 hours daily and 365 days a year with only in preparation for the reception of the sacrament two full-time employees and two-part-time employees. A tax-deductible of Confi rmation and for the Region 10 Catholic contribution can be made at anytime during the year by visiting the studio Youth Conference. at 1901 Corpus Christi or by calling 956.722.4167. KHOY is also the Teenagers representing Sacred Heart Parish only station with streaming audio in Laredo at www.khoy.org (Eagle Pass), Our Lady of Refuge (Eagle Pass), St. Joseph Parish (Eagle Pass), Sacred Heart Inaugural ALS Walk Parish (Crystal City), St. Michael Parish (Bates- ville), St. Joseph Parish (La Pryor), Immaculate Nearly 1,000 people of all ages walked Conception Parish (Asherton) and the host parish for a cure for ALS, better known as Lou in Carrizo Springs participated in a full day of Gehrig’s Disease, at Texas A&M International activities ranging from skits to group prayer. A University in early November. group of youngsters from San Agustín Cathedral Rev. Msgr. Stanley Sliwiak, pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in and St. Joseph Church in Laredo traveled to Car- Laredo, and Rev. Daniel Ramirez-Portugal, pastor of St. John Neumann in rizo Springs for the event as ambassadors for the Laredo, presided over the opening ceremony and participated in the walk. Region 10 conference.

News and Photography by Goyo López Bible Quiz answer from pg. 9: Delilah

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Gift of Giving 5th White Mass

Blessed Sacrament Bishop James A. Tamayo recently cel- School held its 2nd an- ebrated the fi fth annual White Mass at San nual Gift of Giving project Agustín Cathedral for medical professionals of all levels and of all fi elds. where students shared their abundance with those who are less fortunate. Silver Rose Trek Principal Esther Gutierrez and the elementary students presented gifts of food baskets, clothing and The Laredo Councils of the Knights of Columbus toys to Rio Bravo Mayor Juan Gonzalez. recently hosted the fi nal American leg of the Silver Rose trek across North America in homage to Our Lady of OLG Feast Day Guadalupe. Fourth Degree Knights from the Our Lady of Guadalupe province in Texas participated in the Mass Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrated by Bishop James A. Tamayo at San Agustín Parish in Laredo hosted a nine- Cathedral on the second Sunday of Advent. day ceremony concluding on the feast day of the patroness Santa Monica receives donations of the Americas. Rev. Richard Hall, OMI, pastor of Guadalupe Ursuline Sister Theresa Sarich recently Church, Rev. Edward Vrazel, accepted gifts for the children at Santa OMI, parochial vicar, and Rev. Monica Mission in El Cenizo, Texas. Dismas Deacon Anastacio Bernal hosted Charities, through the efforts of Den Freany numerous men and women religious. Bishop James and Mike Corona, partnered with U.S. Border Patrol, SCAN (Serving A. Tamayo celebrated a 6 a.m. Feast Day Mass at the Children And Adolescents In Need), U.S. Probation, IBC (Free check- parish as the culmination to the novena of activities. ing & Quality Control Departments), and the U.S. Marshals Service.

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Faith is ... Fe es...

bout three months ago, I ace unos tres meses yo traje a brought a group of youth from un grupo de juventud de mi par- AOur Lady of Guadalupe Parish Hroquia en Carrizo Springs, para in Carrizo Springs to the Region 10 la Conferencia de la Región 10 de Ju- ‘ ‘ ‘ Catholic Youth Conference in Laredo. ventud‘‘ Católica en Laredo.

We joined teenagers and adults from Arkansas, Nos unimos con adolescentes y adultos de Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas at the Laredo Entertainment Oklahoma y Texas, en el Centro de Entretenimiento de Center for three days of worship and celebration of Faithful-F thfu Laredo, durante tres días de reverencia y de celebrar our faith. ness may nuestra fe. The theme of the regional conference was “Faith come in El tema de la conferencia regional fue La Fe Es, y reso- Is” and resonated with me as I thought about this many forms naba conmigo al estar pensando acerca de esta columna column and the theme of faithfulness for this issue. and shapes, y del tema de fi delidad para esta edición When I hear the word faithfulness, I usually but they all Cuando escucho la palabra fi delidad, normalmente think of the loyal viejitas that are always there serve one pienso en las leales viejitas que siempre están presentes at daily Mass, as well as every Sunday morning glorious en la Misa diaria, así como cada Domingo, bien alertas y bright and early. purpose.urpose. bien temprano. I also think of that man who’s always helping También pienso en aquel hombre quien siempre está around the church with anything I may need. ‘‘‘ ayudando en la iglesia con cualquier cosa que pudiera yo I think of the older people praying the rosary. necesitar.Pienso en las personas de mayor edad rezando These are all wonderful examples of faithfulness. el rosario.Estos, todos son maravillosos ejemplos de fi deli- However, there’s more. dad.Sin embargo, aún hay más. Luckily, the Region 10 Catholic Youth Con- Afortunadamente, la Conferencia de la Región 10 de ference opened my eyes and my heart to more Juventud Católica, abrió mis ojos y mi corazón a más blessed examples of faithfulness. benditos ejemplos de fi delidad. Close to 2,500 teenagers taught me that faith- Cerca de 2,500 adolescentes me enseñaron que fulness can be more than an older generation’s la fi delidad puede ser más que la forma de adorar way of worshipping. I also learned that faithfulness de una generación de edad mayor. También aprendí can be kids, as well as adults young at heart, jump- que la fi delidad puede estar en jovencitos, así como ing, shouting, dancing, singing and praying – all in en adultos de corazón joven, que están brincando, God’s name. gritando, bailando, cantando y orando – todos en This event allowed me to see a whole new way el nombre de Dios. of faithfulness through the actions of these kids. Este evento me permitió ver una completa I saw in them Jesus, our savior. y nueva forma de fi delidad, mediante las ac- In them, I saw hope and happiness. ciones de estos jovencillos. On the radio, on television and in con- Vi en ellos a Jesús, nuestro Salvador. certs, you’ll often here the phrase “loud and En ellos vi esperanza y alegría. proud” used as a rallying call. En la radio, la televisión y en conciertos, On my drive back to Carrizo Springs, I frecuentemente escucharan la frase “fuerte listened to the excitement in the voices of our y orgulloso” usada como una llamada de group and realized that you can be loud and reanimarse. A mi regreso manejando a Carrizo proud and still be faithful. Springs, escuche la animación en las voces Faithfulness may come in many forms de nuestro grupo y me di cuenta de que uno and shapes, but they all serve one glorious puede ser fuerte y orgulloso y seguir siendo fi el. purpose. La fi delidad puede llegar en muchas formas - Fr. Toribio Guerrero is director of vocations y tamaños pero, todos sirven a un propósito for the Diocese of Laredo. glorioso.

For more information on becoming a priest for the Diocese of Laredo or other religious vocations, contact Fr. Toribio “Toby” Guerrero, director of vocations for the Diocese of Laredo, 956.727.2140 or e-mail: vocations@dioceseoﬂ aredo.org

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