WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 | Volume 79, Number 1 Creche crush: Couple’s 500 Nativity scenes MARK PATTISON Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON | For Roger and Marguerite Sullivan of Washington, Christmas really is the most wonder- ful time of the year. Thanks to their travels throughout the world over the past 40 years — he for the World Bank, she for the State Department — the Catholic couple has collected 500 Nativity scenes. Every December, they spend a few days unpacking about 100 or so of the creches for display around their home. This year, though, about 150 of their Na- tivity scenes are on exhibit at the Francis- can Monastery of the Holy Land in Wash- Two of hundreds of creche displays owned by Roger and Marguerite Sullivan. (TYLER ORSBURN | CNS) ington. The Sullivans had been friends of the Franciscans there for many years, but have any ‘Made in China’ scenes,” Margue- a Nativity scene he liked and brought it One place they’ve never collected a it wasn’t until last year, when the Sullivans rite Sullivan said. home. Soon afterward, he went to Peru and creche from? “Believe it or not, the Vatican,” told them, that the Franciscans knew of the The creches chosen for the exhibit show picked up another creche. Thus was a tradi- Marguerite said. extent of their collection. not only the breadth and variety of the Sul- tion begun. The Sullivans also have some distinc- The exhibit, on display through Jan. 6, livans’ collection, but also the skill of the Churches are great places to find Nativ- tive Nativity scenes from the United States. the feast of the Epiphany, is already draw- artisans who assembled them. One creche ity scenes to buy. “If they don’t have them, There’s one from Alaska showing Eskimos, ing more people to the monastery, said from Slovakia seems to be made entirely they know where to go get them,” Margue- one showing Pueblo Indians from Colo- Franciscan Father Greg Friedman, who was from wire. One from Albania is formed out rite told CNS. The artisans who make these rado, a straw-hut rendering from Hawaii, tasked with curating the exhibit. of cast iron. Another from the Philippines creches — save for those on a street in Flor- a scene from South Carolina made of fin- “We started the week before Thanksgiv- was made from rolled-up newspapers. ence, Italy, where individual pieces can sell ger puppets, and a Cape Cod creche with a ing” arranging the creches, Father Fried- The toughest Nativity scene to procure, for thousands of dollars — aren’t making a maritime theme: Mary as a mermaid, and man told Catholic News Service. “We according to Roger, was a heavy but not un- bundle making and selling Nativity scenes. the Wise Men as sea creatures, including an worked over Thanksgiving weekend, and duly tall creche from Lithuania. “We had to “Often, they’re quite poor,” she added. octopus. into the week after that. We put in some buy a new suitcase to take it home in, and With 500 or so creches in their collection, The most controversial, by the Sullivans’ very long days.” He also crafted a slide show we had to buy new air tickets for the flight most countries with a Christian population own admission, is a modern-day telling of featuring nearly half of the creches in the home,” he said. are represented. Roger Sullivan has visited Jesus’ birth, with Joseph wearing his hair in exhibit. In this respect, size does matter. Many of 105 countries in his travels; Marguerite has a “man bun” and taking a selfie and Mary The couple sees their collection as one their Nativity scenes are small, and some been to 110. Friends who have seen their — with her blouse off one shoulder — and expression of their Catholic faith. “I think are downright miniature. The smallest, December displays have given them Nativ- the Christ Child in the manger. The magi, it’s a wonderful way to show our Catholic said Father Friedman, comes from San Ma- ity scenes to add to the collection. “We’ve instead of riding camels, are all on Segways faith, and to be one with Catholics around rino, a 24-square-mile republic surrounded bought a few online,” Marguerite noted, as and carrying gifts in Amazon.com boxes. the world,” Roger Sullivan said. entirely by Italy. Tellingly, the creche fits in- their travels have slowed somewhat in their “Some people say it’s controversial, but The Sullivans look for Nativity scenes side a spoon. retirement — although they’ve already got we have to think of what the Christmas sto- that reflect the culture of the people who The whole thing started when Roger an international itinerary through the first ry would be like if it happened in our day live in the countries they visit. “We don’t went to Bolivia on a work assignment, saw half of 2018. and time,” Roger said. n ORLANDO DIOCESE PALM BEACH DIOCESE VENICE DIOCESE www.thefloridacatholic.org | Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 FLORIDACatholic ORLANDO DIOCESE Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR OR NDO COMMUNITY

ut on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection. And let the peace of Christ control your ‘P hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful’— Col 3:12-15. FLORIDA Catholic God’s love is at the heart of the Christmas DIOCESEOFOR NDO Vol. 79, No. 4 My Sisters and Brothers in Christ: treasured gift for we receive his Real fled, all had been afraid. She sim- Put on love. It is not as easy as 50 East Robinson St. Presence as we are spiritually nour- ply stood by, in the most natural of putting on your most comfortable P.O. Box 1800 Put on love. Name your favorite ished. Through the Sacraments, the ways, as if it were something com- clothing. Like Mary and Joseph’s Orlando, FL 32802-1800 piece of clothing, your most com- indwelling of the Holy Trinity be- pletely normal: in the first Church journey to be registered, the first 407-246-4800 Fax 407-246-4942 fortable outfit; the one in comes our being as we are enveloped in the light of the Resur- steps call us to the virtue of wait- which you feel best. Put on as Christ to one another. rection, but also in the trepidation ing, even when everything seems PUBLISHER love. This is how God’s love Mary, our Blessed of the first steps that had to be taken to lack meaning. Putting on God’s Bishop John Noonan comes to us and should be Mother, conceived, in the world.” love means hearing God’s whisper DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS within us, more comfort- brought forth and nour- Mary invites us to take our first in the most difficult moments. It is a Jennifer Drow able than our most com- ished Christ. She present- steps in the beauty of Christmas joy, journey from the head to the heart, [email protected] fortable clothes. God’s love ed him to the Father in the the birth of a child, and to put on the one in which we yearn to be cradled is the essence of our being Temple, and was united love of her Son, clothe ourselves in by God’s arms that we might hold WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER for we are created by God with him by compassion the richness of this treasure and others within the sweetness of his Glenda Meekins Bishop [email protected] for God. as he died on the cross. join her in the unity of the Holy light. These steps must be taken to- 407-246-4808 God’s love is at the heart John Mary is the star of hope for Family, with Joseph, her spouse, ward God’s people, to draw them in, To submit a request for news coverage of the Christmas message. Noonan us. She has gone before us and with all the people, near and as Mary and Joseph, strangers and in the Diocese of Orlando, email news@ God the Father has such in the journey of life, yet afar, those who have gone before aliens, hoped they would be drawn orlandodiocese.org. a desire to be ours that he she walks the path of hope, us and those who are yet to come in by the innkeeper. They are made offers his only Son, Jesus, to walk leading us toward her beloved Son, — the Holy Family of the faithful with haste, not to rush, but because • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: among us. While the birth of Jesus Our Lord. of God. We commit to putting on of the importance of the message to Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, took place almost 2,000 years ago, Pope Francis said, “Mary is the God’s love as we partake in the Sac- be delivered, that God’s peace reign or customerservice@thefl orida he remains with us through the gift mother of hope, in the midst of rament of Baptism. The Eucharist upon all the people. catholic.org of the Holy Spirit within the Sacra- that community of such fragile dis- continues to flourish this bond of Be thankful. Believe in God. Put Notify us of address changes (temporary ments. The Eucharist is the most ciples: One had denied, many had perfection all the days of our life. on love. ■ or permanent) as soon as possible. Please change your address online at www. thefl oridacatholic.org or call Tammy at 1-888-275-9953.

Bilingual brainpower at St. John Vianney School • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at 407-373-0075 or vcasko@thefl oridacatholic.org JENNIFER DROW Former parish pastor, Father • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at Special to the Florida Catholic Miguel Gonzalez, agreed. “The 1-888-275-9953, or true winners of this partnership mcarlock@thefl oridacatholic.org ORLANDO | Eager children are will be the children, who will be State Offi ces: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite boosting bilingual brainpower at able to develop and strengthen G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; St. John Vianney Catholic School their God-given academic skills,” Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- in Orlando. Pre-K students are now he said. free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 learning in both English and Span- Brittany Hainen’s son is in the ish as part of the new dual-language program and she can already see EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: program, the first of its kind in the big changes. “As parents, we are Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez diocese. learning from our 5-year-old and Business Manager: Pat Spencer St. John Vianney is just one of he has inspired us to learn Span- Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro many schools benefitting from a ish with him,” she said. “It’s fun to Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael $2.6 million grant funded by the ask him what new words he learned Carlock U.S. Department of Education. The today, and we are fascinated by Advertising Graphic Designer: money will breathe life into the pro- how naturally he has picked up on Michael Jimenez Advertising Sales Associate: Valerie Casko gram through summer 2022 across pronunciation of the language. It Advertising Sales Associate: Tim Shea greater Orlando and Tampa Bay. has also been a great opportunity Principal Cathy Marshall promises St. John Vianney Pre-K students are now learning in both English to talk about and encourage diver- Have a comment/want more info/have Catholic teachers will be accompa- and Spanish as part of the new dual-language program, the fi rst of sity, as he is naturally connecting to a story suggestion? Leave your feedback nied on this journey. “We will have its kind in the diocese. (COURTESY PHOTO) children whose native language is at www.thefl oridacatholic.org; click reader access to already successful dual- not the same as his.” feedback link in the top menu. language schools,” said Marshall. dent of Catholic schools, is proud of Vianney Parish pastor, is also ex- As Marshall and her team forge Send statewide news releases to “Their curriculum, scheduling, her hard work and dedication. “The cited about what this means for the ahead, they’re asking for a little news@thefl oridacatholic.org assessments and parent education partnership with Boston College in future. “The best time to learn an- help from the faithful. “This is a will assist us in making good deci- developing this program has been other language is at an early age,” 21st-century initiative that sup- Our staff meets for prayer each work day at sions about our curriculum.” truly rewarding,” explained Fortier. he said. “Since our children will be ports our Church,” Marshall said. “I 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ Marshall worked closely with ex- “The latest partnership with the the leaders of the 21st century, our am grateful for the trust and vision thefl oridacatholic.org perts from both Boston College and University of Central Florida high- dual-language program will pro- of Bishop (John) Noonan and Mr. All contents copyright © 2017, The Florida the University of Central Florida lights the importance of being bilin- vide them the linguistic tools nec- Fortier in the establishment of this Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from to get this program off the ground. gual in a global economy.” essary to succeed in a multicultural program. Please continue with your Catholic News Service. Henry Fortier, diocesan superinten- Father Thomas Walden, St. John society.” prayers.” ■

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GLENDA MEEKINS of the Florida Catholic staff

MELBOURNE | A united and merry Christmas didn’t seem like a possibility for Gilcer Marie, who, along with her family, witnessed devastation in her hometown of Bayamón, Puerto Rico, following Hurricanes Irma and Maria. But the kindness of her stateside family and a faith community on Florida’s east coast has offered her refuge after the storm, hope for her future and a Merry Christmas. “For me, this Christmas will be the first time in 20 years that the whole family is together,” said the Puerto Rican teacher who now serves as a substitute teacher at Melbourne Central Catholic High After three months in Florida, Andrés and Glicer Marie’s family is starting to feel settled after leaving School. “Although we had tried to Puerto Rico due to the devastation left on the island by Hurricanes Irma and María. (GLENDA MEEKINS | FC) do this for years, God chose this moment for that to happen.” ria hit the island and left it reel- “I had 10 minutes,” Glicer Marie Fernandez’s parish welcomed Before the storms hit, Glicer ing. Workplaces were destroyed; recalled. “I sat the kids down and the family, providing for their ev- Marie and her husband, Andrés — schools were closed. Both Glicer explained everything to them.” ery need. Father Karl Bergin, pas- Marie said. “I feel that God has parents of three children — lived Marie and Andrés, along with so But the decision to leave was not tor of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, taught me to say, ‘Here I am. Do and worked on the island. Glicer many Puerto Ricans, were without easy, including for their youngest immediately granted Jesús a schol- your will.’” Marie was preparing to start a new work. son, 13-year-old Jesús. Even he de- arship to continue seventh grade. Three months after the hurri- teaching job in Puerto Rico, and The couple had pondered the bated about staying and leaving. Andrea Marie started school at canes, the family is finally feeling Andrés was also working a new idea of leaving for the U.S. for sev- “I knew I would miss my friends, Heritage High School, where her settled. They hope to have enough job after three years of unemploy- eral years due to the waning econ- but we thought about the future cousin also attends. for a home in January. Glicer Ma- ment. He credited the intercession omy on the island. Now faced with and decided to leave,” Jesús said. “I was nervous about the first rie said the family is “extremely of the Virgin Mary in his finding a the devastation of the hurricanes, “If we stayed, we didn’t know day of school,” Jesús said. “I took it grateful” to Our Lady of Lourdes, job. the issue was even more pressing. what would happen in the months a day at a time until I gained con- Melbourne Central Catholic and “My mother-in-law has a great “I thought what do I do now? ahead. If we left, new doors would fidence. Now it’s great. Some stu- their own family because “they Marian devotion and told me sto- How do I pay the bills? Everything be open.” dents helped me out, translated have truly gone above and beyond ries of how the Virgin Mary had had come to a standstill in Puerto The decision was made for An- some things, and showed me the for us.” granted her requests,” Andrés ex- Rico,” Andrés said. drés to leave the island with their ropes.” Jesús joined a local base- “We are thankful to God that we plained. “So, I sat before the paint- Two weeks later came the op- children: Jesús, 17-year-old Andrea ball team and said he has made are alive,” said Gilcer Marie. “What ing of the Virgin Mary that we have portunity to move to Florida. Marie and eldest son Joseph. several friends. we lived through in Puerto Rico at home and said, ‘Please give me “I thought, OK. These are myste- “Leaving mom at the airport was Glicer Marie worked another was not easy. We are also grateful an opportunity to carry my fam- rious ways,” Andrés recalled. the most painful because we had week before rejoining her family because coming here has been a ily forward; to provide for them Glicer Marie’s family in Florida never been separated,” Jesús said. in Melbourne thanks to the help of dream of ours and it’s finally real- economically so that I can make a could see the magnitude of what The family stayed with Carla her brother, Marcos, who secured a ity. … We have been so loved. It’s holy place for you in our house that had happened in Puerto Rico and Fernandez, Glicer Marie’s sister, flight for her and their sister, Ruth, something hard to put into words. is worthy of you as you deserve.’” began efforts to get her family off a Spanish teacher at Our Lady of with the help of his company. My husband said he has never seen Soon after, he was offered a new the island. Her aunt was able to Lourdes Catholic School in Mel- “It was hard for me to come like so many people united. Arriving job, but the elation would not last procure humanitarian flights, but bourne. Both Andrés and Joseph this, but it has been a joy to see how here there was nothing but bless- long. Hurricanes Irma and Ma- they had to decide quickly. immediately sought work. my family has responded,” Glicer ings.” n Refugee children celebrate their first Christmas season in U.S.

JENNIFER POWERS volunteers Dec. 16. The Knights guitars and led the singing of Florida Catholic correspondent oversaw the festive decorations, Christmas carols, while others ensured the timely arrival of helped kids make holiday crafts ORLANDO | Wide-eyed chil- Santa, and served as elves during like tree ornaments. The women’s dren from countries like Cuba, breakfast with Santa. Bible study group from Most Pre- Burma, Congo, Colombia, Iraq “You guys bring the world to cious Blood in Oviedo provided and Syria waited eagerly for their us,” said Knight Bill Mazanec, gifts for each child. names to be called as they sat in who coordinated the refugee Mazanec thanked Catholic the Knights of Columbus Hall event with Catholic Charities. “It Charities for allowing the Knights 2112 in Orlando. is beautiful to celebrate the first to serve in this capacity. The two They were waiting to receive Christmas with new families year organizations have been in part- their first-ever gift from Santa. after year. To see the sparkle in nership for this event for the past They, along with their families, the kids’ eyes as they see Santa six years. who arrived in the U.S. during and get their gifts is really spe- “We (Knights) have a saying, ‘In the past year through the Refugee cial.” service to one’ — meaning God; Resettlement program at Catholic Adult and youth volunteers ‘In service to all’— which is every- Charities of Central Florida, were from St. Isaac Jogues and Good one else. It’s an extension of our Refugee children listen carefully to what Santa tells them after a treated to a full pancake breakfast Shepherd parishes in Orlando faith life. Charity — that is why we pancake breakfast. (JENNIFER POWERS | FC) prepared by Knights of Columbus handed out song sheets, played became Knights,” he said. n Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 4 Queen of the Americas celebrated at Lake Eola GLENDA MEEKINS 1,200. We weren’t ready to handle Faithful of the Florida Catholic staff the crowd.” participate in That was 15 years ago. St. Hilaire a procession with the | When he was 17, said the reason for reigniting the ORLANDO statue of Fernando Aveitua received a copy of tradition was to evangelize. “That is Our Lady of the transcript of the conversations why we do it outside the confines of Guadalupe between Our Lady of Guadalupe a church, to the public in a general at Lake and St. Juan Diego. As part of Ami- forum — for everyone and anyone,” Eola Dec. gos Unidos en Cristo youth group, he she said. “There is so much mean- 10 before was tasked with putting together a ing to the re-enactment.” the re- re-enactment of the miracle of Te- A group of volunteers from St. enactment of peyac. He quickly enlisted his fam- John Vianney and other parishes the miracle ily to help. More than 20 years later, form “Staff Guadalupe.” They pro- of Tepeyac on Dec. 10, that tradition continued cessed with the statue of Our Lady in which in an event hosted by St. John Vian- of Guadalupe from St. James Cathe- the Blessed ney Parish at the Lake Eola Amphi- dral to the amphitheater. Nicandro Mother theater in Orlando. Alvarado, who has played the part appeared Lisette St. Hilaire, Aveitua’s sister, of St. Juan Diego for the past seven to San recalled how there wasn’t a girl who years, said, “I felt the Virgin calling Juan Diego wished to participate. “So my mom me to do this. It is not me who does in 1531. said, ‘You’ve got to help your broth- the work, it is Juan Diego through (GLENDA er,’ so I was Our Lady,” recalled St. me.” Although the evening’s tem- MEEKINS Hilaire, who was 13 at the time. perature reached the low 50s, he | FC) Her brother played the part of St. said he did not notice, despite his Juan Diego. The family continued bare feet. of St. Isaac Jogues in Orlando, held to faithfully participate in the re- “The Virgin has interceded for her rosary to her heart as Father enactment for 10 years. But a week me before God so often I cannot Gonzalez blessed it. It was a gift on after the 10th presentation, Aveitua count,” he said. “She is our advo- her wedding day 27 years ago. tragically died in a car crash. cate and grants us many miracles. “(Mary) is my mother who is al- In her grief, St. Hilaire could not As Catholics, we venerate her.” ways with me,” she said. “She takes Christmas Carols continue until, years later, living The highlight of the event was care of me each day.” in Orlando and attending St. John the re-enactment of the miracle of “As Christians we have a great Vianney Parish, she felt it was time. Tepeyac when Our Lady of Guada- love for Mary,” said Father Carlos “At first, it was so painful for my lupe, in 1531, appeared to St. Juan Cabán, Salesians of St. John Bosco, Concert & Liturgy family to even think about doing Diego on the hill of Tepeyac asking parochial vicar of St. John Vianney it. We could not get near a church him to build a church in her honor. Parish. “Uniting tradition with love on Dec. 11 because it reminded It took several visits to Bishop Juan of Mary, we must support all that Tradiional Ukrainian carols and other songs of us of him. But when I moved here, de Zumárraga before he witnessed is good. Our Lady of Guadalupe is the season, including “Shchedryk” (the English I wanted to honor him and keep the miracle of Our Lady’s image on the patroness of all of the Americas. “Carol of the Bells”) in it’s Original Ukrainian going with his work.” She added, St. Juan Diego’s tilma (cloak). It was This expression is tradition, culture “Thanks to Father Miguel Gonza- revealed after he unfolded it and and faith. It is important to do this lez’s (then pastor of St. John Vian- Castilian roses, neither in season or in a public place so that, as we live ney) leadership, that first year we native to the region, fell out. out our faith, it is a witness and tes- SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 expected 50 people. We got about Jaquelin Sorriano, a parishioner timony to others.” n Begins at 5 p.m. FREE ADMISSION

20 member visiing choir from Assumpion Ukrainian Catholic Church in Miami

Donaions go to church building fund Welcome Recepion to follow Melbourne Central Catholic Hich School students learn about law during their field trip to the Viera Courthouse. (COURTESY) Teens gain lessons in law and order Mary Protectress Ukrainian 11767-1222 During a visit to the Viera Court- to law, students can choose from courthouse, walked through the CATHOLIC CHURCH house Dec. 7, dozens of Melbourne medical sciences, STEM, or visual law library, and learned how pris- Central Catholic High School stu- and performing arts. “They work oners are transported to and from 245 Lake McCoy Dr. • Apopka FL, 32712 dents learned a lesson in crime very much like college majors with the building for trial. The students For more info call: 407-880-1640 and punishment as they saw hold- a student applying to one of the then watched as more than 15 ing cells and listened to talks from four societies that focus on a spe- people argued their case before a deputies, attorneys and a judge. cific area,” she said. “These societ- judge. VISIT US ONLINE The visit was part of the school’s ies help our students find true ful- “I am amazed how compassion- www.ukrchurchorlando.org Law and Global Business Society, fillment by discovering God’s will ate the judge and the prosecuting which began this school year. in their lives.” attorney were in wanting each per- FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK Missie Cannon-Valencia, direc- Students learned about the son to be a better version of them- Ukrainian Church In Orlando tor of the society, said in addition different levels of security at the selves,” said one visiting student. n YOUR OR NDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Grace at birth bestows virtue in life GLENDA MEEKINS ing for your Son; you are present of the Florida Catholic staff wherever human beings live,” Fa- ther Gonzalez prayed. “Help us to ORLANDO | The Solemnity honor your presence among us, and of the Immaculate Conception is make us wise and strong enough to the feast day in which the faithful build each other up into your city on remember the gift God gave Sts. earth; the vision of your peace; the Joachim and Anne, in conceiving body of your Son, who is Lord for the Virgin Mary to be born with- ever and ever. Amen.” out original sin. On Dec. 8, Father For Sandra Borgon, a parishioner Miguel Gonzalez celebrated this of St. John Vianney in Orlando who most honored grace with Dea- participated in the Mass, the Virgin cons Pat McAvoy and David Gray, Mary’s grace has been an inspira- and the Orlando community at St. tion as long as she can remember. James Cathedral in Orlando. “I’ve been praying the rosary since It is a common misunderstand- I was a little girl,” she said, noting ing this feast day recognizes the she has been praying it daily for de- conception of Christ in Mary’s cades. “I pray to her to inspire me womb. Deacon McAvoy clarified to be better. I use her as my goal. I that “the Virgin Mary, at the hour of know it is impossible, but it’s a goal. her conception was not born with I want to be with her.” original sin; that God had known Faithful participate in the celebration Mass at St. James Cathedral Dec. 8 on the solemnity of the Borgon recalled the many times from the time of her birth that she Immaculate Conception. (GLENDA MEEKINS | FC) Our Lady helped her through dif- was destined to be something great ficulty and personal loss. “She has — the Mother of God.” in his apostolic constitution “Ineffa- This was granted to her by divine enriched by God with the gifts ap- gotten me through the deaths of He noted, “We celebrate the day bilis Deus,” that “the Blessed Virgin favor in anticipation of her role as propriate to such a role.’” The an- people who have meant a lot to me of her Immaculate Conception and Mary in the first instant of her con- Mother of God. gel Gabriel’s greeting to Mary also because I feel like she understands her birth because it leads us to the ception, by a singular privilege and Recalling Pope Paul VI’s dog- echoes her purity and grace: “Hail, how I feel. I pray to her to guide me greatest birth that we will celebrate grace granted by God, in view of the matic constitution “Lumen Genti- full of grace, the Lord is with thee” to be more like her — in love, joy, in a couple of weeks: the birth of her merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of um,” the Catechism of the Catholic (Lk 1:28). peace, patience, kindness, good- Son.” the human race, was preserved ex- Church explains, “To become the “Good and gracious God, you ness, gentleness, thankfulness and In 1854 Pope Pius IX pronounced empt from all stain of original sin.” mother of the Savior, Mary ‘was chose humble Mary as a fit dwell- self-control.” ■ Filipino novena welcomes Christ’s birth

GLENDA MEEKINS Parish in Lady Lake was concele- nators for this year’s novena and a of the Florida Catholic staff brated by Bishop John Noonan and member of St. Timothy Parish, said, 17 Filipino priests from the diocese. “It is a unique and high honor to LADY LAKE | As it has for de- Filipino parishioners of St. Timothy, be chosen as the parish in the dio- cades, the Filipino community of the neighboring parish of St. Vin- cese to start the nine-day novena the Diocese of Orlando welcomed cent de Paul in Wildwood and the Masses preceding Christmas. ‘Sim- the birth of our Savior with Sim- Filipino community of The Villages, bang Gabi’ literally means ‘evening bang Gabi, a novena of Masses that now numbering approximately 400, Mass.’ In the Philippines, Simbang began Dec. 15. hosted the first novena Mass. Gabi is held at the break of dawn at The opening Mass at St. Timothy Tita Dumagsa, one of the coordi- 4 a.m.” Early missionary friars to the Philippines founded the Christ- St. Timothy Catholic Church mas tradition in the mid-1600s. The LADY LAKE Masses were often called “Misa de Gallo” or “Rooster’s Mass” because PRESENTS LIFE in the EUCHARIST the early morning call of the roost- A Retreat Program of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament ers summoned the Christians to come and usher in the Lord’s birth. Monday, Jan. 15 • 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and As the voices of the highly ac- claimed 50-man Filipino choir of Tuesday, Jan. 16 • 12:30-4 p.m. the Diocese of Orlando sang fa- In the St. Timothy Parish Hall miliar hymns, Manolita Dinggay 1351 Paige Place • Lady Lake, FL 32159 Ocampo reminisced. Ocampo em- igrated from her hometown of Ma- Explore the liturgical richness of the Mystery of late, in the district of Manila, to the the Eucharist and how it applies to your daily life. United States in 1967. Although a new parishioner of St. Timothy, she Life in the Eucharist presents specific topics that open up went to the parish for years during the riches of the Eucharist as Celebration, Contemplation, her annual vacation. Coming from Bishop John Noonan celebrates the fi rst Mass of Simbang Gabi, and Communion. This approach offers a comprehensive Connecticut where there are few a novena that began Dec. 15 at St. Timothy Parish in Lady Lake. view of the Eucharistic mystery. The five key themes will be Filipinos, she loves coming to Sim- (STEPHEN DOWELL | FC) God’s Love as Nourishment, Reconciliation, Transformation, bang Gabi and finding such a large Abiding Presence, and Mission in Jesus Christ. The retreat Filipino community. and villages. They would ring the munity that enables her to share in

will be led by Father George Dunne, S.S.S. and the St. 11843-1222 “It’s like going back to my roots. bell and wake up everybody — from what was a part of her childhood. Timothy Life in the Eucharist team. Spaces are limited. It’s like going back to my country,” the oldest to the youngest. They She will ultimately spend Christ- she said. “Simbang Gabi is a tradi- would get up and go to church to mas Eve, the final night of Simbang For registration or info, please stop by the church office or contact tion for us. Growing up that was prepare for the birth of Christ.” Gabi, with relatives up north, “40 or Bill Burns: 352-753-0989 | [email protected] always part of a preparation for Three generations later, she is 50 of them from ages 4 months to Christmas. It started in little towns glad to be a part of the Filipino com- 78.” ■ Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR OR NDO COMMUNITY Pen pals young and old enjoy friendship together

JENNIFER DROW Holy Name Special to the Florida Catholic of Jesus Catholic MELBOURNE | For a group of School fifth-graders in Indialantic, some students pen pal friendships don’t span the share with globe, but they do bridge generation residents of gaps decades apart. an assisted Friendships are blossoming on living facil- ity during the Space Coast as the students of a Christmas Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School celebration. and residents at Victoria Landing, a (COURTESY nearby assisted living facility, have PHOTOS) become pen-pal buddies. They write letters to each other all year long and get together for big holiday bashes. Their recent Christmas cel- Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School students sing Christmas carols ebration was complete with cook- with residents of Victoria Landing assisted living facility. ies, carols and hugs. “My students’ faces simply light up with excitement when let- COMMUNITY BUSINESS DIRECTORY ters from their pen pals arrive at ATTORNEYS ATTORNEYS school,” said Lynn Minner, fifth- MELBOURNE WINTER SPRINGS grade teacher. “When the class car- oled at Victoria Landing, their pen GREGORY SCHWENDEMAN pals were smiling and singing along ATTORNEY Andrew J. Chmelir, P.A. with pure joy.” Elder Law • Estate Planning • Probate • VA Planning Attorney-at-law Kathy Yoder, a resident at the Medicaid Planning • Guardianship • Litigation facility, loved every minute of it. 1696 West Hibiscus Blvd. Ste. A | Melbourne, FL 32901 • Criminal law, family law and general practice “I look forward to seeing my pen Tel: 321-345-5945 | Fax: 321-345-5417 pal and writing cards all through- [email protected] | www.AmyBVanFossen.com • Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake and Brevard counties out the year. It reminds me of my 351 E. State Road 434, Suite A • Winter Springs, FL 32708 grandkids.” Her friend, Delores Moscas, 407-327-8899 agreed. “The kids are terrific and we [email protected] | www.jmcflaw.com have so much fun together.” ALTAMONTE SPRINGS Up next is a February tea party ORLANDO and the students are already plan- ning an end-of-school barbecue Bankruptcy Law with their pen pals. • Former Chairman, Bankruptcy Committee, OCBA “I have learned no matter your age or another person’s age, you can • Author, “Bankruptcy ... Because Life Happens” still be friends,” said Michael. His • Helping people in our community find financial peace for more than 20 years • Employment and labor 1188 Buttonwood Circle Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 fellow fifth-grader, Rachel, agreed. • General corporate 816 N. Thornton Ave. 407-865-7473 “I love it because it helps us grow in • Supreme Court Certified Circuit Court, Orlando, FL 32803 Fax: 407-865-5979 communication and love for oth- Family Law and Appellate Mediator ers,” she said. 407-228-1300 [email protected] • Trained and experienced arbitrator www.robertwraschlaw.com The project, now in its fourth www.bowenbankruptcylaw.com year, will continue into the future. “Intergenerational programming OVIEDO DENTIST is a fancy way of saying we bring ORLANDO seniors and kids together to form fun and meaningful relation- ships,” said Amy Schafer, executive Titusville/ Creating one great smile after another director at Victoria Landing. “Both Cocoa Beach/Viera Dr. David J. Akkara groups have so much to teach and Elder law attorneys 321-269-1511 learn from each other and the re- • Estate planning • Mention this ad for a New Patient Special • Pain-free dentistry sult of these programs is simply Oviedo • Accepts most PPO plans • Laughing gas for ALL your visits amazing.” • Medicaid/Nursing home planning 407-542-3965 Minner agreed. “As an educator • Probate and Guardianships 3600 N. Formosa Ave., Orlando, FL 32804-3098 at a Catholic school, I know there • Real estate closings www.AllenderLaw.com 407-898-2371 | Fax: 407-897-3303 is more to developing the whole [email protected] | www.dentistincollegepark.com person than academics alone,” she said. “These experiences foster in COUNSELOR students a true understanding of ALTAMONTE living the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” The lesson is not lost on the chil- ESTABLISHED 1976 dren. • Contracts • Wills • Estates • Powers of Attorney • “I think it is a great way to teach • Living Trusts and Estate Planning • Title Insurance students how to be kinder,” said • All Elder Law and Probate Matters • Real Property • Foreclosures • Guardianships Nick. Margaret Joyce McCloskey, M.A. • “It is a beautiful thing for elder- 1519 W. Broadway (SR 426), Oviedo, FL 32765 • Individuals, Couples • Family, Groups ly people to once again be around 407-365-5696 | www.cloningerfiles.com Licensed Mental Health Counselor #7868 | National Certified Counselor #63662 young people,” said Eliana. • “As a work of mercy, it helps us The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely Scan Design Building be a better Christian,” said Victoria. upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask an attorney to send you free 999 Douglas Ave., Suite 3303 • Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 • “I think the program is great written information about his or her qualifications and experience. 407-920-0777 | www.celebratelovelifeandyou.com because you make people happy,” said Dominic. ■ 7 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 News From around the diocese

ORANGE COUNTY celebrating this liturgy. “The com- bination of biblical and inspired readings, choral anthems and car- Christmas in ols is a spiritual journey through Advent, toward the celebration of a shoebox Christmas.” Third- and fifth-graders of Holy Family Catholic School in Orlando recently collected and shipped SEMINOLE COUNTY clothes, toys, and school supplies to needy children across the globe Christ’s love comes through Operation Christmas Child. “For many of my students, alive in Sanford the idea that there are children True love poured forth from the around the world who do not know living Nativity story performed Dec. God was astounding,” said teacher 9 at All Souls Parish in Sanford. It Mackenzie Snook. “Reading about took more than 50 people to breathe past recipients who shared a wash- life into the play about the birth of cloth and toothbrush with 20 other Our Lord, Jesus Christ. orphans was our call to action.” The performance came com- “Collecting items and packing plete with a donkey, lamb and a the boxes really helped me visu- baby goat that thought it should alize how much these children chew on a fellow actor — in partic- needed these things,” said Tommy, ular Jenny Mansingh. “You know, a fifth-grader. it was not perfect in that stable,” The students took time to in- the director of faith formation said clude heartfelt letters, and prayed with a laugh. “My desire is that over the gifts to make sure God Christ Jesus is born anew in each was part of the journey. “I hope the of our hearts.” children who receive these boxes The crowd was treated to five will know there are people in the scenes: prophets foretelling Jesus’ world who care, and also know that Holy Family Catholic School students in grades three through five pack clothes, toys, and school supplies birth, the Annunciation, the Visita- Christ is with and in them always,” to ship to needy children across the globe through Operation Christmas Child. (COURTESY) tion between Mary and Elizabeth, Gracelyn said. the manger scene, and a reflection. The local YMCA helped students their show with director Christine Parish. “It is the wonderful miracle “(During the reflection) the first get the boxes to Operation Christ- Shields. “I feel very blessed to have LAKE COUNTY that happens when you put volun- song, ‘What If I Give My All,’ is in- mas Child, a project of Samaritan’s the opportunity to work with the teers together in a large group.” tended to challenge and encour- Purse. Since 1993, the program has residents of Bishop Grady Villas,” Learning by He explained when he first ar- age us to give our all, which is what helped more than 146 million chil- Shields said. “(The choir) has dou- rived at St. Patrick eight years ago, Mary did when she said yes,” Man- dren in 100 countries. “Operation bled in size over the last six years. singing the parish choir was not highly ex- singh said. “The second is to bring Christmas Child changed the way Through the process of working Those participating in Advent perienced, so they reached out to St. back the focus to the one thing I view the world because it shows with them to play beautiful mu- lessons and carols at St. Patrick Paul Parish and First Presbyterian. necessary: love. In our hustle and me how much more Christ-like I sic, they have become my friends. Parish in Mount Dora embodied From there, the event and relation- bustle of stressing over what gifts can be,” said fifth-grader Luke. His I love them, and I believe they love a quote of St. Augustine, who said, ships just grew. we should give, we are simply re- classmate, Lanie, agreed, “When me.” “He who sings, prays twice.” St. Pat- “This year was real special to me minded to ‘Give Love on Christmas the kids get these boxes they will Other residents from Bishop rick Parish, St. Mary of the Lakes in because I am retiring so this is my Day.’” realize that God is looking out for Grady Villas also participated Eustis and St. Paul Parish in Lees- last Advent with them. I have loved The event was a team effort be- them.” in the celebration of Mass, serv- burg joined First Presbyterian, St. working with them,” Robinson said. tween children of All Souls Catholic Sister Dorothy Sayers, Religious ing as greeters and distributing Philip Lutheran and First United “They are such good friends.” School and students in faith forma- Teachers Filippini, principal of the hand-made rosaries. “I know that Methodist churches in Mount Dora More than 400 people attended tion. Parishioner Frances Lom- school, could not be more proud. St. Timothy’s helps us so much at to raise their voices in joy as the sto- the musical journey of faith. Adam merse said she really enjoyed it. “It “It is our goal and our school mis- the Harvest Ball and the rest of the ry of salvation history was shared Brakel, director of music for the was amazing to watch both adults sion to help guide our students in year,” said Beth, a Bishop Grady through Scripture readings and Diocese of Orlando and St. James and children bring to life the story a vision beyond themselves,” she Villas resident. “I think it is im- song. The Dec. 3 ecumenical event Cathedral, noted the importance of of Christ’s birth.” n said. “We want our children to portant that we give back to show began with a candlelight proces- reach out to others who are desti- them we love them. I love coming sion of faithful as the choir rang the tute and desperate; to offer hope here.” bells. through God’s work, not only at Laurel Hayward, development According to the U.S. Confer- Christmastime, but all year long.” director, agreed. “Our residents ence of Catholic Bishops, the festi- were busy making pocket rosaries val of lessons and carols is a service for the parishioners of St. Timothy of Scripture and song that dates to OSCEOLA COUNTY a few weeks in advance of our per- the late 19th century. “In this ser- formance. They were so excited to vice, we listen to nine Scripture Chimes ring out be able to show their appreciation lessons which recount the Fall, the to this remarkable parish through promise of a Messiah, the Incarna- with Christ’s love not only crafting something mean- tion, and the Great Commission to The Bishop Grady Villas chime ingful people could take home, but preach the good news. Each lesson choir received a standing ovation also by performing a beautiful is followed by a carol or other song, from the faithful at St. Timothy song that conveyed the good news which reflects on the lesson’s mes- Parish in Lady Lake Dec. 10, after of the birth of Christ.” sage, and a brief prayer.” completing a flawless performance Father Ed Waters, pastor, loved The Anglican tradition begun of “Away in a Manger.” It was a every moment of it. “Their smiles in 1918 at King’s College in Cam- magical moment for musicians like told the story of gratefulness,” he bridge, England, was adapted from Eden. “I love St. Timothy’s,” she ex- said. “Yes, the smiles of the mem- E.W. Benson, later Archbishop of claimed. “I hope people enjoyed bers of the choir and the smiles of Canterbury, who originally devel- our way of thanking them. I can’t my parishioners. Our parish sup- oped it in 1880. wait to go back.” ports the Villas and we are most “None of our churches alone It took just four rehearsals for pleased to do what we can for them. could do it as well,” said Rick Robin- A living Nativity story is performed Dec. 9 at All Souls Parish in this talented group to perfect Please keep them in your prayers.” son, director of music for St. Patrick Sanford. (COURTESY) Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 8

DIOCESAN EVENTS EVENTS WITH BISHOP NOONAN TO SUBMIT SUPPORT “I’m Not for Sale” human Christmas Eve Mass: 10 p.m., St. survivors of human trafficking, and To submit parish, school, MINISTRIES/ trafficking awareness James Cathedral, 215 N. Orange Ave., highlighting the work of the Church to diocesan or related event PEER GROUPS symposium: Saturday, Jan. Orlando. Bishop John Noonan will serve and accompany newcomers. information to be considered 20, 2018, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., for publication in the Diocese celebrate Mass. Cathedral choir will White Mass: Saturday, Feb. 3, of Orlando and Florida Catholic Sunshine Seniors, third Holy Family Parish, 5125 S. sing Christmas carols at 9 p.m. Parking Thursdays, noon (except in the Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando. 4:30 p.m., Holy Name of Jesus Parish, calendar of events, please on the northeast corner of Robinson 3050 Highway A1A, Indialantic. Mass visit www.orlandodiocese. summer), Blessed Trinity Parish, Presentations by Father Shenan 4545 Anderson Road, Orlando. Bouguet, Dr. Kateriina Rosenblatt and Orange Avenue. recognizes the ministry of those such org/our-diocese/events- calendar/ and click “Suggest Enjoy a potluck lunch, outings and and the diocesan Human Migration Mass: Sunday, Jan. as physicians, nurses, compassionate faith. Turner Flynn, 407-277-1702. Trafficking Task Force. Special Event.” Submissions should 7, 5 p.m., Holy Cross Parish, 12600 care ministers, ministers of consola- Separated and divorced: presentation for youths 13 and up. Marsfield Ave., Orlando. Mass cel- tion, chaplains, mental health workers, be received 4-6 weeks prior to the date of the event. Not all • Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Holy Youth groups welcome. Tickets: $7 ebrated by Bishop John Noonan marks and all in the medical profession. per person; $17 per family, includes submissions will be printed due Redeemer Parish, 1603 N. Thacker, the beginning of National Migration Bishop John Noonan will extend a to space limitations and other Kissimmee. Sylvester, 407-406-0707. lunch. www.holyfamilyorlando. Week, recognizing the contributions special blessing. com, 407-876-2211. considerations. • Catholic Divorce Survival of immigrants, refugees, migrants and Mission trips: Mission Office Guide, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., is seeking doctors, nurses and and help them learn and practice Cost: $30, scholarships available; dentists for Jan. 20-27 school 1771 N. Semoran Blvd., Orlando. English. first Fridays, Mass and dinner, physicals mission to sister Diocese COMMUNITY Donations accepted Monday- social; St. Margaret Mary Parish, • Furniture pickups and 526 Park Ave. N., Winter Park. Lori of San Juan de la Maguana. EVENTS Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 407-658- apartment setups in Orlando: Caroline Genovesi, cgenovesi@ 1818, ext. 2335. Reinneck, lori@stmargaretmary. Volunteers help staff pick up org, 407-645-0284. orlandodiocese.org; 407-246- Ministry to the sick training: furniture and set up apartments • Coffee and conversation, 4890; www.orlandodiocese.org/ Saturday, Jan. 6, 8:30-11 a.m., for refugees before they arrive. second Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Our Lady ministries-offices/mission-office- Most Precious Blood Parish, 113 Must be 18 or older and able to lift VOLUNTEERS of Lourdes, 1014 N. Halifax Ave., welcome/. Lockwood Blvd., Oviedo. Members furniture. Daytona Beach. Leslie Bonner, 386- Domestic infant adoption of other parishes in diocese may NEEDED • Volunteer medical orientation/informational 265-1199. register; prerequisites needed will St. Vincent de Paul Orlando professionals such as MDs, PAs, session: Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, be determined by home parish. RNs, OBGYNs, EKG technicians, • “Divorce Care Ministry Adults 9-11 a.m., Catholic Charities, 801 S. provides volunteer opportunities and Children,” Mondays, 6:30-8 R.S.V.P. by Jan. 4: rstrembicki@ through its stores and food endocrinologists, orthopedic Florida Ave. No. 3, Lakeland. Learn oviedocatholic.org. surgeons, certified health p.m., Holy Name of Jesus, 3050 N. pantries for students needing Highway A1A, Indialantic. Program about adoption process through March for Life: Saturday, educators, general and nurse Catholic Charities and whether or volunteer hours. Apply at teaches children how God’s love Jan. 13, 8:15 a.m.-4 p.m., St. svdporlando.org. practitioners needed at each clinic. not it is right for you. Topics include [email protected], Lazarus can strengthen and help them find Augustine. Depart from parking Sign language volunteers: its history, legacy. Preregister: Free Medical Clinic in Wildwood; hope and joy; parents can attend lot of Most Precious Blood Parish, Parishes throughout the diocese [email protected]. [email protected], St. Luke’s the adult Divorce Care program the 113 Lockwood Blvd., Oviedo. need volunteer American Sign Free Medical and Dental Clinic in same evening. 321-773-2783. Sponsored by Advocacy for Life Language interpreters to help deaf Eustis; [email protected], St. Families with incarcerated Ministry. Cost: $22 adults; $20 or hearing-impaired individuals MASSES/PRAYER Thomas Free Medical Clinic in St. loved ones: teens; free for children under 12. fully participate in the celebration Cloud. • Third Saturdays, 9 a.m., St. SESSIONS Fee is not refundable. Register: of Mass each week. Position [email protected], 407-443- Life Choices Women’s Mary Magdalen Parish, Mother requires yearlong commitment to Teresa Room, 861 Maitland Ave., Feast of the Holy Innocents 8683. Center, a Catholic pro-life serving one Saturday or Sunday Altamonte Springs. 407-463-5780 prayer service: Thursday, Dec. 28, St. Paul Parish white pregnancy resource center, 600 Mass per week, and a diocesan or email [email protected]. 6 p.m., St. Mary Magdalen Parish, elephant/yard sale: Saturday, background screening. Must be 18 E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte Marian Grotto, 861 Maitland Ave., Jan. 13, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Knights and older. www.cflcc.org/volunteer. Springs, is in need of volunteer Bereavement support groups: lay counselors (training provided), Altamonte Springs. Sponsored of Columbus Council 5644, 2116 Catholic Charities of Central • Holy Redeemer Parish office, nurses to perform ultrasounds by Respect Life Ministry. Bilingual Griffin Road, Leesburg. Sponsored Florida seeks volunteers for the 1603 N. Thacker Ave., Kissimmee, (training provided), administrative service will remember and pray for by Knights Council 5644 and following programs. Visit www. second and fourth Wednesdays, assistance, handymen, help with all young deaths. All are invited, Ladies Auxiliary 2116. Variety of cflcc.org /volunteer or contact 5-6:30 p.m. 407-847-2500; Sylvester light cleaning, and receptionists. especially those who have lost a goods and food available for sale. [email protected] or 407- Edwards, 407-460-0707; http:// Also accepting donations of baby child. Bring an ornament to hang Concetta, 352-728-2834. 658-1818, ext. 1026. www.hredeemer.org/ministry-of- items, especially diapers and wipes. consolation.html. on the Christmas tree as part of the Basilica Concert Series • Refugee Youth Services service. 2017-18: Basilica of the Drop off during office hours. 321- • Blessed Trinity Parish, Building Program seeks adults to serve 422-4168. Interpreted Mass for the National Shrine of Mary, as mentors. Mentors are caring L, 5 S.E. 17th St., Ocala, multiple deaf: Sundays, 11 a.m. Mass, Queen of the Universe, 8300 friends and positive role models, groups; and first Wednesdays, 7-9 Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, 1014 Vineland Ave., Orlando. Tickets: and help youths with learning p.m. Compassionate Friends, Ocala N. Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach. maryqueenoftheuniverse.org, 407- English, understanding homework SECULAR chapter, for bereaved families who An American Sign Language 239-6600. assignments, and making sense COMMUNITIES have experienced the death of a interpreter will be provided to sign. • From Sea to Shining Sea, Feb. of a new culture. Must be at least child. Peggy McClaskey, 352-694- Meet in the café, 10:15 a.m., for a 18, 2018, 3 p.m. 18, participate in training, have Lay Carmelites, first Saturdays, 2978. “deaf coffee chat” with pastries. • Come to Us Creative Spirit: A background check and commit to 9 a.m.-noon, Annunciation • St. Stephen Parish Enrichment 386-255-0433. Celebration of Pentecost, May 20, at least three hours per week. Be Parish, 1020 Montgomery Road, Center 1, Room 103, 575 Tuskawilla 3 p.m. a mentor and change a life. Jacob. Altamonte Springs. Lay Carmelite Road, Winter Springs, first 50th founding celebration [email protected], 410-218-4041. order of the Blessed Virgin Mary is Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m. For anyone RETREATS/DAYS of Holy Spirit Parish: Fridays, • Hospitality volunteers are an association of mainly laypersons who has lost a loved one. 407-699- OF REFLECTION through Tuesday, July 31, 2018, needed to staff front desk of the who commit themselves “to live 5683. 4 p.m., 2309 Holder Road, Mims. food pantry in Orlando. Volunteers in the following of Jesus Christ” • St. Mary Magdalen Parish, 861 Maitland Ave., Altamonte Springs, San Pedro Center retreats: Original founders and their are needed three-four hours each according to the charism, traditions has a well-trained and experienced Various dates, 2400 Dike children are urged to contact the week to greet guests, gather food and spirit of Carmelite order. Terri group of grief support ministers to Road, Winter Park. For more parish office, 321-269-2282, to be bags, organize the reception area West, [email protected], help those who have lost a loved information or to register: www. included in events, even if they and restock the front counter. 407-925-6274, http://www.lcarmacc. one. Call 407-831-1212 to arrange sanpedrocenter.org/retreats- may have left the area. • Pantry needs individuals com. for a time to meet. programs, 407-671-6322. “Catholics Returning Home”: or groups (maximum of five) to • Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, • Senior day: “What’s going St. Vincent de Paul Parish, 5323 sort and stock food donations. 201 University Blvd., Daytona on here? Paying closer attention E. County Road 462, Wildwood. Volunteer shifts are Monday-Friday, Beach, Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Pat during Mass,” Thursday, Jan. 11, Informal sessions offered for 9 a.m.-noon, and 1-4:30 p.m. Beeman, 386-788-7128. 2018, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Led by Father non-practicing Catholics who are • Emergency Family Services Benjamin Berinti, Missionaries seeking answers to questions about clerical/administrative volunteers in of the Most Precious Blood. $15, returning to the faith. Deacon Dan Orlando to assist with data entry, includes light breakfast and lunch. Pallo, [email protected], copying, filing and organization. Day ends with Mass. 352-391-9338. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • San Pedro book club: • Receptionist with Family Saturday, Jan. 20, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Empowerment Program in Administrative Conference Room. ANNOUNCEMENTS Winter Haven: Volunteers answer Led by Father Blase Romano. Free. phones, greet guests, schedule Catholic Charities mission Donations are welcome. appointments, operate copy and market needs donations. fax machine. Monday-Friday, 9 • Hermitage retreat: Thursday, Please consider donating personal 10186-1222 Feb. 15, 6 p.m.-Sunday, Feb. 18, a.m.-noon. Martha.Murphy@cflcc. care items such as: toothbrushes, org; 863-299-7983, ext. 103. 11 a.m. Experience the rhythm of toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, solitude and quiet in traditional hand soap, body wash, shampoo/ • Refugee resettlement mentors Franciscan retreat. conditioner, deodorant, feminine in Orlando to “adopt-a-family” care products, toilet paper, diapers to help introduce newly arrived and baby wipes. Mission Market, refugees to American culture WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 FLORIDACatholic PALM BEACH DIOCESE

s we celebrate the Prince of Peace becoming one of us, may we experience his peace in our lives, our nation and our world. We pray that Christmas and the New Year will be filled with the peace only the Lord can give and that we will be ATTENTION POST OFFICE — PLEASEinstruments DELIVER BY DEC. 22of that peace. Merry Christmas to all! — Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito

Como celebramos que el Príncipe de la Paz se convierta en uno de nosotros, podemos experimentar su paz en nuestras Pendan nap selebre prens lapè a ki vin fè l youn nan mitan nou, se vidas, en nuestra nación y en nuestro mundo. Oramos para pou nou eksperimente lapè li a nan lavi nou, nan nasyon nou an ak nan que la Navidad y el Año Nuevo se llenen con la paz que solo mond lan. Nap lapriyè pou Nowèl la ak nouvel ane a kap ranpli nou ak el Señor puede darnos y seremos instrumentos de esa paz. lapè ke selman Segnè a kapab bay epi sa ka vini enstriman pou lapè a. ¡Feliz Navidad para todos! Joye Nowèl a nou tout! — Obispo Gerald M. Barbarito — Evèk Gerald M. Barbarito Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 2 Glory to God — Peace on earth “Glory to God in the highest and in order that he might bring us true on earth peace to those on whom peace in a world which seeks peace, Colorful his favor rests.” These words of but always in the wrong place. The light the angels to the shepherds at the words of peace, which the angels illuminates a statue of birth of Christ in Bethlehem are announce the birth of Christ, will Mary and the words addressed to all of us on be continuing words of the Lord the Christ Florida this Christmas. The two parts of the throughout his ministry and after Child Dec. angels’ message go hand in hand — his Resurrection. 12 at the Catholic the first: Glory to God; the second: To find true peace, we need to Catholic DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH Peace to those on whom his favor look at the first part of the angels’ Pastoral rests. As we are greeted with this greeting at Bethlehem, “Glory to Center in Vol. 79, No. 4 message, perhaps the aspect which God in the highest.” God’s glory Nashville, deals with peace is the one that is is his love. His glory is not in his Tenn. (Rick 9995 North Military Trail very much yearned for by all of us. power to do all things, to know all Musacchio, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 As we look around our things, to create all things Tennessee 561-775-9500 • Fax 561-630-2698 world today, certainly a Register and even his ability to negate PUBLISHER lack of peace prevails. all things. His glory is in his | CNS) Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito We see war, violence, love. God gives himself away terror attacks, prejudice, for all eternity and gives DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS discrimination, religious himself to us even when we Dianne Laubert persecution and so many turn away from him. God [email protected] other aspects of human wants us to be in a real rela- LIVING THE DIOCESAN EDITOR intolerance. In our own tionship with him and it is glory of God as infinite love and to center of our lives — not a God of Linda Reeves nation there is a great TRUTH IN this relationship which gives enter into that love in a personal re- power who delights in the rulers [email protected] deal of unrest, mistrust LOVE peace to our lives and to our lationship will real peace come. and kings of this world — but a God 561-775-9528 and judgment that pre- Bishop world. So much does God Not everyone will accept this of love who delights in a humble, vails in practically every Gerald want this relationship with message. That has always been helpless, newly born child which he • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: story of news that we read us, that he became one of us reality. That is why the angels an- has become. As Pope Francis spoke Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, or every incident that oc- Barbarito in giving us his Son and be- nounce “Peace to those on whom last Christmas, “The Gospel reveals or customerservice@theflorida curs. We all fear a threat ing born as a helpless infant God’s favor rests.” God’s favor rests a paradox. It speaks of the emperor, catholic.org to our safety as we see so of the Virgin Mary. He walks upon all people — no matter what the governor, the high and mighty Notify us of address changes (temporary many mass shootings and terror at- with us, speaks with us, comforts their backgrounds, limitations of the times, yet God does not make or permanent) as soon as possible. Please tacks taking place in our very midst. us, dies and rises with us, and gives or feelings may be. However, not himself present there. He appears change your address online at www. Peace is a message that we long to us life and hope in every moment of all are willing to accept the favor not in the splendor of a royal palace, thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at hear and very much want to possess our being. While things will never of God and this is where a lack of but in the poverty of a stable, not in 1-888-275-9953. in our world and nation today. be perfect as long as we are in this peace will always be present. pomp and show but in simplicity of Peace is something also that we world, the peace which only God Even the celebration of Christ- life; not in power but in astonishing • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at 407-373-0075 or seek in our own families and per- can give is always there. mas has cast the glory of God into smallness. In order to meet him, we [email protected] sonal lives. We may be experienc- We especially live at a time when the background. We live in a time need to go where he is. We need to • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at ing family tensions and personal the true glory of God is called into when it is more appropriate to say slow down, to humble ourselves, 1-888-275-9953, or factions which tear at the very heart question. It seems that more and “Happy Holidays” and not “Merry to make ourselves small. The new- [email protected] of personal peace. Inside each and more God is no longer the center Christmas,” not because of a lack born child challenges us.” every one of us are anxieties, wor- of our creation, but that humanity of sensitivity to other faiths, but be- Only by letting ourselves be State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; ries and concerns pertaining to wishes to replace God with itself. cause of a lack of sensitivity to faith touched by the infinite love of God Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- health, financial matters and so This is certainly nothing new but at all. Last year, in his Christmas and entering into a personal re- free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 many needs before us which make so much new technology and sci- homily, Pope Francis rightly noted lationship with him, who never peace seem very elusive. The words entific advancement is giving the that “Christmas becomes a holiday abandons us, will we celebrate the EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: of the angels announcing peace illusion that this can happen. We with ourselves at the center rather true spirit of Christmas and always Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade may seem far away from us in our live in a time when misconceived than Jesus; when the lights of shop find true peace. We pray in a special Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Business Manager: Pat Spencer lives and even at Christmas, but we human rights surpass the glory windows push the light of God into way for all those so troubled and Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro long to hear them. of God. We live in a time in which the shadows; when we are enthused abandoned by our society today. As Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael What we are experiencing is humanity thinks it can create itself about gifts but indifferent to our believers in the “Prince of Peace,” Carlock nothing new to humanity and was into the person it wants to be, no neighbors in need. This worldliness may his peace which is the glory of Advertising Graphic Designer: part of the very world into which matter how God has put us into this has kidnapped Christmas; we need his love be truly experienced as it Michael Jimenez Jesus, the Prince of Peace, came. world. There is the illusion that it is to liberate it.” can be. Advertising Sales Associate: Valerie Casko He truly became one of us, with all no longer God who creates us and As we go to the crib this Christ- A blessed Christmas to all! May Advertising Sales Associate: Tim Shea of our lack of peace and security, gives us the unique identity which mas, let us do so hearing the greet- we all find that peace which the Have a comment/want more info/ and took our fragile human nature is ours from him. ing of the angels in a personal way Lord has come to give us. “Glory have a story suggestion? Leave your to himself in order to bring us a As God recedes more and more to each and every one of us. First, to God in the highest and on earth feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; peace which is not found in us but into the background, the glory of his “Glory to God in the highest!” We peace to those on whom his favor click reader feedback link in the top menu. in him. As we gaze upon the infant love also is not able to be grasped as all need to recognize God as the rests.” n Send statewide news releases to in the manger, we gaze upon the he so much wants it to be. Other [email protected] glory of God in the highest in his things replace the fundamental infinite love and giving of himself relationship with God for which we BISHOP BARBARITO’S SCHEDULE Our staff meets for prayer each work day at to us. From the very beginning of were created and in which we find Dec. 24 — 4 p.m., Mass, St. Jan. 6 — 4:30 p.m., Mass for 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ thefloridacatholic.org his human existence, Jesus was our joy and peace. In a world where Francis of Assisi Parish, Riviera Beach; National Migration Week, Cathedral of enmeshed in a lack of peace which God has receded, achievement, po- Midnight Mass, Cathedral of St. Igna- St. Ignatius Loyola. caused him to be born away from All contents copyright © 2017, The Florida litical advancement, false values, tius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens. Jan. 7 — 10:40 a.m., Confirma- Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from his home and subject to Herod who unfounded rights and transitory Dec. 25-Jan. 1 — Pastoral Center tion, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic News Service. tried to put him to death. Jesus ac- success take precedence over a per- closed in observance of Christmas and Parish, Delray Beach. cepted all of this, and ultimately his sonal relationship with God. Only the New Year. death upon the cross as a criminal, when the world is able to accept the

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A framed photo of Blessed Titus Brandsma, a Carmelite priest and martyr, is displayed as part of diocesan ceremonies. FYI Parishioners congratulate Carmelite Father Michael Driscoll upon Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito signs documents which were then sealed his 50th anniversary as a priest June 10 after Mass at St. Jude Parish and taken to Rome as part of diocesan investigations into an alleged The diocesan inquiry process in Boca Raton. miracle here in the Diocese of Palm Beach. The Diocese of Palm Beach’s involvement in the process for the investigation into the alleged miracle regarding Carmelite Father Michael Driscoll was brought to a close Dec. Real-life miracles do exist 12 after nearly a year and a half since opening in July 2016. Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito presided at the Cathe- dral of St. Ignatius Loyola ceremony. Also present was Carmelite Father Michael Kissane, prior provincial of here at Christmastime the Carmelite Friars of the North LINDA REEVES American Province of St. Elias, and of the Florida Catholic staff Carmelite Father J. Mario Esposito, the vice-postulator of the cause of Blessed Titus Brandsma. The closing PALM BEACH GARDENS | This event included a prayer service, and is a story about an alleged miracle, all the documentation that has been here at Christmastime, which is be- accumulated was presented for deliv- ing considered as the “confirming ery to the Congregation for Causes of miracle” that could possibly lead to Saints in Rome, where experts there the sainthood of a priest. And at the will begin their investigation of the center of all the miraculous hap- testimony gathered here. penings is a local priest, his fellow Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Glen Carmelite brothers, Catholics in Pothier, diocesan tribunal judicial the area and diocesan officials. vicar and episcopal delegate for the “It is a long process,” said Car- A happy Carmelite Father miracle investigation, explained the melite Father Michael Driscoll, Michael Driscoll smiles during process, which is long and involved. priest-in-residence at St. Jude Par- the conclusion of ceremonies It included interviews with parish- ish in Boca Raton, who continues closing diocesan investigations ioners of St. Jude who knew about to serve at the parish with the Car- into a miracle case involving him. Father Driscoll’s situation and gave melite community. “Rome keeps firsthand accounts of the prayers to asking for more paperwork.” nies will go to Rome for more study, Blessed Brandsma offered for him. Father Driscoll believes, without analysis and inspection. Medical doctors also testified about a shadow of a doubt, that Carmel- Eventually, if the data and evi- Father Driscoll’s condition and their ite Father Titus Brandsma, who dence is determined clear and understanding of the alleged miracle. was beatified in 1985 and became that any contrary reports aren’t All the information was transcribed “blessed,” is the intercessory power credible, Pope Francis may initi- Elizabeth Shields, a parishioner of Holy Name of Jesus in West Palm by a professional court reporter and Beach and a notary for more than 30 years, signs papers as part of the process was overseen by Father responsible for him being alive to- ate the canonization procedure for concluding ceremonies of diocesan investigations into a miracle case. day. Doctors discovered 13 years Blessed Brandsma. But the pope Albert Dello Russo, current chancel- With her is Carmelite Father Mario Esposito, center, vice-postulator of lor and diocesan tribunal judge, ago that Father Driscoll was eaten has the last say in matter, and only the cause of Blessed Titus Brandsma, and Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Glen who held the canonical position of up with cancer, but today his ex- time will tell and it may take some Pothier, right, diocesan tribunal judicial vicar and episcopal delegate promoter of justice required for the cellent health is baffling everyone time, according to Father Driscoll, for the miracle investigation. (PHOTOS BY LINDA REEVES | FC) investigation. around him. about the extensive formalities and After the information was re- If his amazing cure of cancer is process for one to be made a saint. that needed healing prayers. cer in some parts,” he explained viewed, witnessed and signed, it was deemed scientifically unexplain- “We will have to wait and see what It read, “Father Michael Driscoll, about the aggressive malignant forwarded to the Holy See for transla- able and miraculous, it may lead to happens,” said Father Driscoll. O Carm, pastor of St. Jude Par- melanoma attacking his neck area tion into Italian and the translations Blessed Brandsma possibly becom- ish and director of liturgy for the and spreading to other parts of the were sent back as part of the Diocese ing one of the Church’s next saints. BACK TO THE diocese, is awaiting surgery at body. The melanoma was real and of Palm Beach’s final document. Two Needless to say, everyone here who BEGINNING OF Massachusetts General Hospital relentless. copies were made. At the prayer knows about it is excited, and the THE STORY in Boston. St. Jude parishioners Melanoma is a cancer that usu- service, the original and the copies excitement has been building. To begin the story, we have to go and staff members of the Diocese ally starts in a certain skin cell and were signed and each was placed in back 13 years ago when the Florida of Palm Beach ask all to keep Fa- can quickly spread to almost any a box wrapped with a red ribbon and IS IT A BONA FIDE Catholic first became involved. We ther Driscoll in prayers of healing organ. Stage 4 cancer, like Father sealed with a wax seal with the di- MIRACLE? were asked to publish a notice in through the intercession of Father Driscoll had, is the worst phase. ocesan coat of arms. The original will Here in the Diocese of Palm the paper. It ran in the July 22, 2004, Titus Brandsma, a Carmelite who At the time of his diagnosis, be kept in the diocese and the two Beach an investigation began July issue and was titled “St. Jude pastor was beatified in 1985.” St. Jude Father Driscoll was 62 years old. copies were handed over to Father 11, 2016, when Bishop Gerald M. needs prayers of healing.” Parish staff provided a prayer to There was no mistaking his doc- Esposito, who will take them to Rome Barbarito officially opened di- The brief article published did be printed along with the plea for tor’s diagnosis after scans, X-rays for further investigation. ocesan inquires into the miracle not have any specific details, but prayers, and it was also published. and an MRI. For more information, visit case. Dec. 12 marked the closing a reader might definitely assume Father Driscoll explained that Medical data states that once www.diocesepb.org/titusocarm. of the investigation here, and now that Father Driscoll was undergo- his condition was critical. “It was- evidence, documents and testimo- ing some type of serious procedure fourth-stage and fifth-stage can- Please see DRISCOLL, 4 Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 4

Containers PRAYER secure the acts of the Loving God, your servant, Titus cause that Brandsma, labored zealously in your are signed vineyard and gave his life freely and sealed because of his faith in you. Through for Rome his intercession I ask for your mercy as part of and help. Father, Titus never refused investigations when he was asked for help by your of a miracle people. In his name, I come to you here that with my needs: (mention requests). may pave Lord, help me always to imitate the way for the great faith, generous love and Blessed Titus burning zeal of Titus Brandsma. Brandsma Glorify your servant as he strove to to become glorify you. Amen. a saint of the Catholic Church. DRISCOLL The new icon representing Blessed From 3 Titus Brandsma, a Carmelite priest and martyr, is displayed as part of diocesan ceremonies the cancer spreads to organs and Dec. 12 at the Cathedral of St. have a lot to celebrate today. He or carrying other heavy crosses faith in the saint candidate. lymph nodes, there is a higher risk Ignatius Loyola. (PHOTOS BY is a wonderful priest. He is a good to pray and have faith, and to be “Three people have told me sto- that the cancer might come back LINDA REEVES | FC) shepherd.” thankful for blessings and live ev- ries,” he said. “Two of the people after surgery. Rarely do patients Everyone applauded and stood ery moment to the fullest. “I am live in Boca Raton. One person survive a long period of time fol- praying for Father Driscoll. in respect for the man who followed going to make every day count,” he is up north. There may be one in lowing surgery — and his cancer “It was very bad,” she said. “I God’s call and continues to walk on said. England. We will just have to wait had spread. had the impression that it was the his path, facing the twists and turns Father Driscoll told the Florida and see what happens. I have been worst.” Father Driscoll gave her a and experiencing the bad times Catholic that he has personally waiting for a long time.” FAITHFUL KNEW THE bundle of holy cards to distribute and the good times, including what heard testimonies from others All are asked to continue to pray POWER OF PRAYER with a healing prayer through the he believes to be a true-life miracle. who have come forward with mir- for Father Driscoll and the cause Prayers went up from the faith- intercession of Father Brandsma, At one point during the Mass, acle stories of their own linked to of Blessed Titus Brandsma, a holy ful here in the Diocese of Palm the man he truly believed to be in he encouraged all fighting cancer Blessed Brandsma, adding to his man deserving of sainthood. n Beach. Catholics around the dio- heaven and a holy person he could cese, at the Pastoral Center, St. Jude count on. parishioners and members of the Owers handed out 30 to 40 cards Carmelite community everywhere and kept one for herself. “I contin- began to pray. ued to pray as I thought of him,” “We were all praying for him. It said Owers, who believes along was touch and go for him. We all with others that the prayer on the came together in prayer as a com- card was powerful and heard loud munity,” said Barbara Batchel- and clear in heaven. der, a parishioner of St. Jude who J. Albert Johnson, a Boca Ra- believes, like so many here, that ton attorney and St. Jude parish- prayers were lifted straight up to ioners, is a good friend of Father heaven and to Blessed Brandsma, Driscoll. Johnson was there for who passed them along to God. Father Driscoll when he was go- And who is Father Titus Brands- ing through surgery and treat- ma? Anno Sjoerd Brandsma, later ments. He also prayed and believes known as Father Titus Brandsma, Blessed Brandsma had something was born Feb. 23, 1881, in Oegek- to do with his friend’s healing. looster in the province of Friesland “His recovery to me was a divine in the Netherlands. One of Hol- intervention,” Johnson said. “He land’s leading churchmen and a taught me how to pray to Blessed great Carmelite priest, he was ar- Titus Brandsma, to whom he had rested by the Nazis and imprisoned a great devotion. Father Driscoll in Germany at Dachau concentra- would tell me, ‘I am OK because Ti- tion camp. When he could no lon- tus is going to take care of me.’ His ger work, he was used for medical recovery, I am sure, was through experiments. He died a martyr July the power of prayer.” 26, 1942, by lethal injection. He was beatified Nov. 3, 1985, by Pope FAST FORWARD John Paul II. His feast day, July 27, Father Driscoll, who turned 76 is observed by the Carmelite com- in October, remains cancer free. munity worldwide. St. Jude Parish held a big celebra- The aggressive cancer that in- tion June 10 for Father Driscoll’s 50 vaded Father Driscoll had attacked years of service in the priesthood of 10 of his lymph nodes and his sali- Jesus Christ. We were there to cover vary gland. Intensive surgery was the big event. scheduled to remove the melano- Father Driscoll was main cele- ma that could be seen during sur- brant and all smiles, appearing very gery. After surgery, came 35 radia- joyful as he celebrated the Mass tion treatments to kill cancer cells with fellow Carmelites at his side or keep them from growing. in support and celebration of his Prayer warriors kept sending golden anniversary and life. Car- up prayers. Margaret Owers, who melite Father John Horan, pastor of worked in the diocesan Liturgy Of- St. Jude, welcomed all gathered for fice with Father Driscoll, recalled the special occasion. “Thank you those days 13 years ago like they for coming. It is 50 years and one were yesterday. Now retired and week that we celebrate today,” he 11800-1222 living on Florida’s west coast, she said, referring to Father Driscoll’s spoke to us and told her story about ordination date June 3 1967. “We 5 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 New pastor installed at Holy Spirit LINDA REEVES of the Florida Catholic staff

LANTANA | The Holy Spirit Parish community celebrated the formal installation of their spiritual leader and new pastor last month during a Mass with Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito as main celebrant. “It is a great joy to be here with you today to celebrate the Eucha- rist and the installation,” Bishop Barbarito said. “This is a wonder- ful faith-filled parish. You are the Church. We are one Church. We join together as a family.” Father Elifete St. Fort, fondly Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito applauds along with the faithful of Holy known as Father Eli, was formally Spirit Parish Nov. 19 as Father Elifete St. Fort is officially installed as installed Nov. 19, and parishioners, Father Elifete St. Fort, right, prays during Mass Nov. 19 at Holy pastor. friends and family attended the Spirit Parish where he was officially installed as pastor. With him, Mass, showing great support and from left, are Father Thomas Barrett, rector of the Cathedral of St. Catholic interviewed Father Fran- of the way and continues to pray for community spirit. Ignatius Loyola; and Father Brian Campbell, parochial vicar of Our çois, who was then director of the him every day. She became part of “Everyone loves him,” said pa- Lady Queen of the Apostles Parish in Royal Palm Beach. (PHOTOS diocesan Office of Vocations and the diocese’s Oran Ministry, which rishioner Barbara McDonough. BY LINDA REEVES | FC) Seminarians. He witnessed Father encourages women to pray for a A native of St. Marc, Haiti, Father St. Fort through the years as he went priest of their choosing. St. Fort entered Miami’s St. John pointed parochial vicar at St. Luke administrator and was officially ap- through formation and discern- “He is a good priest,” Keyloun Vianney College Seminary in 1998 Parish in Palm Springs July 1, 2011, pointed pastor this past July 1. ment and now as he journeys on the said. “He is a good man. He is a good after graduating from Spanish River and was elevated to parochial ad- Clergy from the seminary and priesthood path. spiritual son.” High School in Boca Raton. He was ministrator pro-temp Jan. 7, 2013. from around the diocese were on “He’s a people person,” Father In addition to his installation, ordained by Bishop Barbarito Sept. He then served as parochial vicar at hand to show support and fellow- François said then. “That’s a gift that Father St. Fort will have another 27, 2009, at the Cathedral of St. Igna- the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola ship for Father St. Fort on his instal- he has. I can’t wait for him to serve celebration soon: He celebrates his tius Loyola. in Palm Beach Gardens from Dec. 1, lation day, including Father Yves the people of God.” birthday on Christmas Day. All are He was first assigned to Our Lady 2013, to June 30, 2016. François, pastor of Sacred Heart Lonnie Keyloun, a parishioner of asked to continue to pray for Father Queen of the Apostles Parish in He came to Holy Spirit, a commu- Parish in Okeechobee. Holy Spirit, has also known Father St. Fort as he journeys forward with Royal Palm Beach where he served nity of more than 1,100 registered When Father St. Fort was or- St. Fort since he was a seminarian. new added responsibilities as pas- as parochial vicar. He was then ap- families, July 1, 2016, as parochial dained eight years ago, the Florida She has prayed for him every step tor. n Catholics are called to witness God’s love LINDA REEVES servances and events are now be- of the Florida Catholic staff ing planned at various parishes throughout the U.S. and here in PALM BEACH GARDENS | The the Diocese of Palm Beach. The U.S. Catholic Church is celebrat- theme of the week focuses on ing National Migration Week in Pope Francis’ call for all to create January to recognize the contri- a culture of encounter. Since be- butions of those who have settled coming the leader of the Catholic here from other countries, and Church, Pope Francis has stressed those survivors of human traffick- the importance of encounter with ing. The observance, which the others, saying, “Faith is an en- Church has celebrated for nearly counter with Jesus, and we must a half-century, also acknowledg- do what Jesus does: encounter es the ministry and work of the others.” Church to serve and help new- As a sample of parish events, comers. A Mass will be celebrated Our Lady Queen of Peace in Del- Father Duvan Bermudez, diocesan Jan. 6, 4:30 p.m., at the Cathedral ray Beach kicks off the week Jan. 7, director of the Office of Hispanic of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Mil- with a big parish event involving Women representing the country of Guatemala present the gifts Ministry, receives the gifts itary Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. its diverse parishioners linked to during a special Mass at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola Jan. 7, presented by parishioners of St. National Migration Week 2018 countries from around the world. 2017, as part of the Church’s National Migration Week. In 2018, the Mark Parish in Boynton Beach . is Jan. 7-13 and special Mass ob- “We will have foods from dif- week is observed Jan. 7-13. (PHOTOS BY LINDA REEVES | FC) ferent countries, dancing, music, and people will wear costumes,” ebrant during Mass at the Cathe- “I invite you to pray for immi- said Conchy Arauz, parish man- dral of St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm grants who are looking for a safe ager. Beach Gardens. He explained that place,” said Father Bermudez The parish celebrates Sunday the annual National Migration during his homily. “We must go Masses in English at 8 a.m. and 11 Week gives Catholics an opportu- to them and give them our hands, a.m., Spanish Masses at 9:30 a.m. nity to reflect on the circumstance our support, our faith in Jesus. He and 12:30 p.m., and Portuguese confronting migrants, including is our example of love and charity. Mass at 7 p.m. All are welcome immigrants, refugees, children, Bring them your heart and your

10186-1222 to the celebration on the parish and victims and survivors of hu- love like Jesus Christ.” n grounds, 9600 W. Atlantic Ave., man trafficking. He called all to Delray Beach. discern about better ways to reach Check with a parish to find out In January 2017, Father Duvan out to help brothers and sisters, what is planned to celebrate Na- Bermudez, diocesan director of and create meaningful relation- tional Migration Week, or visit Hispanic Ministry, was main cel- ships with all God’s people. diocesepb.org/events. Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 6 Angels make Christmas bright for the homeless

JACKIE HOLFELDER ceive from the community. Renee Florida Catholic correspondent “One of our most amazing Bireley, left, Christmas angels is Jean Clark,” and Kathy VERO BEACH | It has taken said Bireley about the former in- Ryan of the Christmas angels of all different terior designer. “Last year she put Samaritan ages, sizes and shapes over the past together a party that bowled over Center staff decades to make the holiday season residents and staff alike. This re- show off a a time of joy at the Samaritan Cen- tired bundle of energy hand-sewed Christmas ter in Vero Beach, a safe and loving a personalized stocking for each wreath home to the homeless and people of child. She took a photo of each one designed all faiths. of them and put it in a frame on for the A consortium of parishes — in- which she had written their name. center by Kean Clark. cluding St. Helen, St. John of the And she got a group of friends to- The wreath Cross and Holy Cross in Vero Beach gether who baked goodies and is one — individuals, area churches and helped underwrite the cost of the of many residential communities reach out entire party.” decorations in support and with love to Samari- Bireley said one of the most emo- given to tan Center residents throughout the tional moments of the whole party the center year and especially at Thanksgiv- occurred when one of the resident by local ing and Christmastime, according moms looked at the framed photo of residents to Kathleen Ryan, administrative her child and said, “I’ve never had a to help assistant for the Catholic Charities picture of her before. And my own the center of the Diocese of Palm Beach out- mom never had a picture of me or and the reach, which is celebrating 25 years my brothers and sisters.” homeless of serving the less fortunate. Clark and company are in full families The Catholic Charities’ Samari- gear to host a party again this living there. tan Center provides temporary year with a decorated tree, festive (LINDA shelter and transitional housing wreath, delicious food and treats, REEVES | FC) and guidance to homeless families and a fireplace at which the chil- in Indian River County. The aim is dren hang up their stockings. The to prepare heads of households and big Christmas celebration will come family members to successfully live on the heels of a grand Thanksgiv- independently. ing at the Samaritan Center, made Ryan began praising an impres- possible through the generosity of sive list of angels as we spoke to her people in the community. during an interview. “The Trillion Michele Bond, a Samaritan Cen- Ladies Group adopts families and ter support specialist, said every- buys them gifts from wish lists pro- one came together beautifully to vided by Samaritan Center. Mem- make the holiday a special feast for identify the cause of a resident fam- volunteer’s talent and skill set. Vol- For program information and bers of the Vero Beach Country the families needing a little lift and ily’s homelessness. They give the unteers are needed for everything volunteer opportunities, please call Club Nine-hole Group receive a list something a little special as they families tools to become self-reliant from property repairs to cooking 772-770-3039. of names and genders of children go through difficult times. “It’s an and get back on their feet. “We defi- and baking. n in-residence at the center and buy amazing experience to see the out- nitely give a hand up and not a hand appropriate gifts. They even get pouring of support given to Samari- out,” said Bireley. things like hair salon and spa gift tan Center’s residents,” Bond said. A devoted team of volunteers cards for the moms,” Ryan said. Bond is among a staff of 11 at the helps supplement the work done by “Grand Harbor has been a longtime center, which is a 24/7 operation, the professional staff. If someone source of support for our Christ- running at a high level of efficien- wants to volunteer, staff will find mases,” she added. cy. Professionals at the center help a perfectly suited job to match the Deacon David Hankle of St. Hel- en Parish is familiar with Samari- tan Center. He explained how once a year representatives of the Samar- itan Center visit and speak from the pulpit. Speakers share their per- sonal story of struggles and the help they are receiving or have received to make it on their own. The second collection at the Mass is taken up for William E. Boyes the Samaritan Center. “It is really touching to hear tes- John Farina timony from one of the residents,” Peter Matwiczyk he said.

Renee Bireley, Samaritan Cen- • Wills, trusts and guardianship litigation 11138-1222 ter’s current program administra- • Estate and trust planning and administration tor, is a parishioner of St. Helen. Deacon Hankle knows her very well, and has even joined in prayer 3300 PGA Blvd., Suite 600 [email protected] with her. Bireley is filled with ap- Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 [email protected] preciation and gratitude for the 561-694-7979 [email protected] generous support the residents re- 11202-1222 7 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 St. Edward is a diocesan jewel LINDA REEVES of the Florida Catholic staff

PALM BEACH | St. Edward Church, celebrating a milestone this month, is a church that will take your breath away and move you to prayer and reflection. “This is our prime jewel here in the Diocese of Palm Beach,” said Deacon Martin Serraes, an ad- mirer of architecture and a con- struction professional who serves at St. Juliana Parish in West Palm Beach. Deacon Serraes led a tour of St. Edward in November dur- ing the annual Grandparents Pil- grimage Mass there. St. Edward celebrated its first Mass at the stroke of midnight Dec. 25, 1926. Masses will be joyfully celebrated once again this Christmas at vari- ous times to celebrate the coming of Christ as the parish family has Patron St. Edward is featured in a window at St. Edward Church. A window at St. Edward Church tells the story of the birth of Christ. joyously celebrated for the past 91 (PHOTOS BY LINDA REEVES | FC) years. There is no doubt that visitors are captivated the moment they step inside the Spanish Renais- sance-style church with four crys- tal chandeliers suspended from the ceiling, visually stunning in- teriors and stained-glass windows telling Bible stories. One little-known fact about this gem is that it began as a mission church of St. Ann Parish in West Palm Beach. Jesuit Father Felix Clarkson, pastor, saw the need for a mission church to serve winter visitors and people working in the service industry at the hotels housing them. The territory was under the authority of the Diocese of St. Augustine back then, and the A beautiful rendition of the Crucifixion is displayed high above the The ceiling of St. Edward Church features hand-painted, hand-cast bishop was Bishop Patrick Barry. main altar at St. Edward Church in Palm Beach. pieces put in place one by one by skilled workers. Bishop Barry gave his consent for the establishment of St. Edward Mission and a groundbreaking for the church was held Easter 1926 on land purchased for $80,000. The construction of the $500,000 building took nine months and a dedication took place Feb. 13, 1927, with Bishop Barry. In 1941, St. Ed- ward Mission became a parish, standing on its own as the area’s population developed into a town with year-round residences. Church visitors are amazed by St. Edward’s beauty from top to An image of a pelican symbolizes bottom and in every single inch. Christ sacrificing himself for A small plaque in a pew located Besides the four crystal chande- man’s salvation. The pelican is on on the north side of St. Edward liers, the ceiling is a work of art the right side of the mural high Church marks the location in itself. Each square is hand-cast The sanctuary of St. Edward Church is dedicated to the Sacred Heart on the wall behind the main altar President John F. Kennedy sat and painted and then individually of Jesus and features a marble statue placed high above the altar. at St. Edward Church. when he visited the church. attached, a lost technique and ex- tremely rare. The main altar fea- center. Anne, the home at Nazareth, the Mass celebrations at St. Edward in faith. n tures a statue of the Sacred Heart The church features magnifi- death of St. Joseph, and Jesus bid- Church and other parish activities of Jesus located in a niche towering cent statues here and there, and ding farewell to his mother. gathering the faith community St. Edward Parish is located at 144 over 40 feet high. The altar itself is its stained-glass windows to the The choir loft on the second and visitors. N. County Road, Palm Beach. Sat- 28 feet of carved Carrara marble. north and south of the main nave floor, high above the vestibule St. Edward Church has with- urday vigil Mass is celebrated at Another focal point is the mu- hold Bible stories and Gospel mes- of the church, is graced with two stood hurricanes but has been 5:30 p.m., and Sunday Masses are ral of the apostles which is high sages. Eight large stained-glass stained-glass windows of St. Greg- damaged by time and elements. celebrated at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 on the wall behind the main altar, Marian windows beautifully rep- ory and St. Cecilia, patron saints However, families have ensured a.m. and noon. Msgr. Thomas J. and a carved marble scene of the resent the life of the Blessed Moth- of liturgical music. The pipe organ that St. Edward will be here for fu- Klinzing is pastor and also a judge Last Supper is inserted in the free- er. Of special note are the Marian is the original instrument. The ture generations and for all to visit for the diocesan Tribunal. The par- standing altar located front and windows depicting the home of St. organ music adds to the beauty of and be inspired to pray and grow ish phone number is 561-832-0400. Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 8

Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, are welcome to join and discuss DIOCESAN EVENTS SOCIAL MEDIA music by St. Joseph Catholic grandparenting issues and School jazz band, dinner and share tips and tactics for passing 2017-2018 School of Follow the Diocese of Palm Beach on social media. Facebook is a simple way to be informed with the latest news in the diocese and spot familiar faces of the orchestra music. Cocktail attire. along the faith to the younger Christian Formation: Learn Cost: $200. Proceeds benefit generations. Kit Johansen, 561- more about Catholicism and Catholic community. Feel free to tag, share and comment on the postings on our educational and outreach 626-8027, [email protected]. prepare for ministry work. Facebook pages: Diocese of Palm Beach; Diocese of Palm Beach, Office of Catho- ministries. Charismatic group invites Available in English and Spanish. lic Schools; Palm Beach Vocation; Diocese of Palm Beach Youth Ministry; Diocese Cost: $10. Next classes begin Jan. Luncheon and fashion visitors: Thursdays, 7:30 p.m., of Palm Beach Family Life; Catholic Charities Palm-Beach; and Florida Catholic. show: Feb. 10, 11 a.m., Mayacoo St. Paul of the Cross Parish center, 8. For schedule of classes: 561- To find more information on events, visit www.diocesepb.org/events or www. 775-9544, www.diocesepb.org/ Country Club, Breakers West, 10970 Jack Nicklaus Drive, North school-of-christian-formation. catholiccharitiesdpb.org/events. 9697 Mayacoo Club Drive, West Palm Beach. Mass and healing Palm Beach. Fashions by Stein service takes the place of prayer Divorce survival ministry Mart. Cost: $40. Prizes and raffles. meeting the third Thursday of program: Presented at parishes diocesan policies and procedures Hosted by St. Thérèse de Lisieux each month. 561-626-1873. in the Diocese of Palm Beach, for reporting abuse as well as to TV MASS Council of Catholic Women. 561- Catholic radio stations are 12-week program features view the USCCB “Charter for the Televised Mass: Sundays, 352-9991. available through the radio, 30-minute DVD segments on Protection of Children and Young 10:30-11 a.m., CW34 WTVX. Prayer gathering: Fridays, the Internet and application challenges of a broken marriage. People,” visit www.diocesepb. 5 p.m., on the sidewalks near A downloads: WPBV FM (98.3 FM, For the recently separated and org and click on Offices/Safe Produced by the diocesan Office of Woman’s World Medical Center www.wpbvradio.com); WJPP divorced and those divorced for Environments. Communications. Questions: www. that offers abortion services, 503 (100.1 FM, www.wjppfm.com); many years. Sponsored by Office Catholic Charities events diocesepb.org/tv-Mass or 561-775- of Marriage and Family Life. 9529. To support the televised Mass S. 12th St., Fort Pierce. Treasure and WDMC (920 AM, www. • Prayer to end abortion: Coast rosary group leads rosary divinemercyradio.com). Registration suggested; space or to request a free Mass missal: Jan. 22, 11 a.m., Historic County recitation for the end of abortion. limited. To register: 561-775-9524. 561-775-9529 or Office of Commu- Women of Grace ministry Courthouse, 300 N. Dixie 772-465-8298. program is seeking volunteers Joy of the Family mission: Highway, West Palm Beach. Event nications, 9995 N. Military Trail, P.O. Sponsored by diocesan Office Pray the rosary for life: to facilitate study programs falls on the anniversary of Roe v. Box 109650, Palm Beach Gardens, Saturdays, 9-10 a.m., sidewalks for English-speakers and also of Marriage and Family Life. Wade, the Supreme Court Case FL 33410. Designed to explore and reflect just north of the Wellington for Spanish-speakers. Training that legalized abortion. Don Christmas Day televised Regional Medical Center, 10101 sessions are held at St. Joan of upon the deeper meaning of Kazimir, 561-360-3330, ext. 287. family and life and how to find Mass: Dec. 25, 10 a.m., on CW34, Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. All Arc Parish ministry buildings, • Temporary protected status joy on life’s path. 561-775-9524, the channel that currently airs the invited to pray for the end of 319 S.W. Third Street, Boca re-registration: Assistance is [email protected]. diocese’s weekly Sunday morning abortions. 561-784-0689. Raton. Registration: Martha available through Catholic Nicolli, 561 212 8673 or mnicolli@ Monthly Mind Mass to Charities for Haitian nationals Mass. Additionally, it will air 5-6 womenofgrace.com. remember departed souls: Jan. who need help in re-registering a.m. on CBS12, and 6-7 a.m. on 12, 10 a.m., Our Lady Queen of RETREATS/DAYS Parish nurse meetings: for temporary protected status NewsChannel 5. Main celebrant: Open to all registered nurses Peace Cemetery, 10941 Southern required by U.S. Customs Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito. Music OF PRAYER Blvd., Royal Palm Beach. 561-793- interested in health ministry. and Immigration Services. provided by diocesan choir. For dates, time and locations, 0711, [email protected]. Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Re-registration procedures call Catholic Charities, Interfaith Center: Retreats and programs “Living the Joy of Love”: extended through Jan. 22. www. West Palm Beach, 100 Northpoint Health and Wellness, 561-345- available for clergy, religious, Jan. 27, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Holy catholiccharitiesdpb.org. Parkway, West Palm Beach. Led by 2000, ext. 256; or email wellness@ men, women, married couples, Family Parish, 2330 S.E. Mariposa • Catholic Charities Respect Respect Life Office. 561-360-3330. catholiccharitiesdpb.org. Ave., Port St. Lucie. Presenters: Life Ministry is seeking volunteers singles and people in recovery Christopher West, Jason Clark and programs. Season theme: “By Charitable giving to take on roles as respect life guidelines: The bishops of Mike Mangione. Based on Pope parish representatives, who are His Wounds You Are Healed” (1 Francis’ apostolic exhortation COMMUNITY Pt 2:24). Reservations required Florida have developed charitable essential to help build culture of giving guidelines of appropriate “Amoris Laetitia” and St. John life and spread pro-life message. EVENTS except when stated. Location: Paul II’s Theology of the Body 1300 U.S. Highway 1, North Palm and inappropriate organizations/ If you are passionate about saving foundations. Please visit www. lecture series. Tickets available at unborn babies and other pro- Christmas Masses: Cathedral Beach. 561-626-1300 or www. Holy Family Parish office. Cost: of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 ourladyofflorida.org: diocesepb.org, click on giving and life work and are interested in then charitable giving guidelines. $25 for adults, $15 for students, filling this role within your parish, N. Military Trail, Palm Beach • New Year’s Eve reflection: includes bagged lunch. Register contact Don Kazimir weekday Gardens. 561-622-2565. Dec. 31, 6 p.m., led by Passionist by Jan. 20. 772-335-2385. www. mornings, 561-360-3330. • Christmas Eve vigil Mass: Father Melvin Shorter. holyfamilyccpsl.com/living-the- MASSES/PRAYER • Seventh annual Caritas Dec. 24, 4 p.m., with Nativity Presentation, dinner, sacrament joy-of-love.html. Dei Bishop’s Gala: Jan. 25, The pageant; 6:15 p.m., with youth of reconciliation available, Mass, SESSIONS Workshops for Breakers Hotel, 1 S. County ministry music; midnight, with midnight party. Cost: $70 per extraordinary ministers of Road, Palm Beach. Honorary main celebrant Bishop Gerald M. person or $90 for overnight Perpetual adoration: St. holy Communion: For both Chairs: Emilia and Pepe Fanjul. Barbarito. Carols and traditional guests. Price includes lodging. Vincent Ferrer Parish, 840 George new and experienced ministers Chairs: Carol and Harold Baxter. Christmas music begin 11:15 p.m. Registration required. Bush Blvd., Delray Beach. 561-276- at various locations. Call your Co-Chairs: Karmita and Charlie • Christmas Day Masses: Dec. • Day of reflection: Feb. 7, 10 6892. parish office to make reservations Gusmano, and Lauren and Charlie 25, 7:15 a.m., 8:45 a.m., 10:30 a.m. “Healing the Heart,” led by Perpetual adoration: St. with the diocesan Liturgy Office. Lomangino. Cocktail hour, silent a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. Passionist Brother Edward Hall. Anastasia Parish, 407 S. 33rd St., Sessions in English and Spanish. auction, dinner, dancing and live (Spanish). Cost: $40. Reservation required. Fort Pierce. 772-461-2233. • Saturday, Jan. 27, Cathedral auction. Tickets: $500 per person; Open House: Jan. 19, 8:30-10 • Scripture retreat: Feb. 9-11, Perpetual adoration: St. of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 $350 for juniors. Sponsorship a.m., All Saints Catholic School, 5 p.m. “The Church in the 21st Joseph Parish, 1200 East 10th St., N. Military Trail, Palm Beach packages available. 561-630-2695. 1759 Indian Creek Parkway, Century: New Testament Images,” Stuart, Fl. 772-287-2727. Gardens. • Catholic Days at the Capitol: Jupiter. Tours of Pre-K4-grade led by Passionist Father Don Adoration: Fridays, following 2018 Wedding Anniversary Jan. 30-Feb.1. Event in Tallahassee eight school. 561-748-8994, ascs@ Senior. Cost: $250. Registration the 8:30 a.m. Mass, concluding Masses: Feb. 10, 10:30 a.m., St. gives Catholics an opportunity allsaintsjupiter.org. and deposit required. with solemn benediction at 5 Lucie Parish, 280 S.W. Prima Vista to visit and meet with elected Spiritual talk series: Jan. 22, p.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius Blvd., Port St. Lucie; and Feb. 17, officials. Includes luncheon 23 and 24, 7 p.m., St. John of the Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, 10:30 a.m., St. Paul of the Cross with Florida bishops, legislators Cross Parish, 7550 26th St., Vero ANNOUNCEMENTS Palm Beach Gardens. 561-622- Parish, 10970 Jack Nicklaus Drive, and others; Red Mass of the Beach. Led by Father Dwight 2565 or www.stignatiuspb.com. National Migration Week Nort Palm Beach. Main celebrant: Holy Spirit. Bus transportation Longnecker. Free-will offering Adoration: First Fridays, after is Jan. 7-13 and celebrated in Bishop M. Gerald Barbarito. and hotel accommodations appreciated. 772-563-0057. 8 a.m. Mass concluding at 7 p.m., parishes throughout the United Celebrates sacrament of marriage available. Deadline: Jan. 9. Monthly Holy Hour of St. Mark Parish, 643 N.E. Fourth States for nearly 50 years. The and couples married 25, 40, 50 561-775-9560, dkazimir@ prayer and adoration: Jan. 25, Ave., Boynton Beach. 561-734- week is held to reflect upon or more years. Reception with ccdpb.org, ahernandezdiaz@ 7 p.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius 9330. cake follows Mass. Register at ccdpb.org. Information: www. and recognize the contributions Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Adoration: Mondays, 8:30 your parish. Sponsored by Office catholiccharitiesdpb.org. of immigrants, refugees, Palm Beach Gardens. Sacrament a.m., 24 hours a day through of Marriage and Family Life. 561- • Project Rachel support: of reconciliation available. migrants and survivors of human 775-9557, nlafleur@diocesepb. trafficking. The event also shines Saturday, 7a.m., St. Bernadette Tuesdays, 3 p.m., Catholic Evening of simple praise and Parish, Msgr. Cosmo G. Saporito org. Charities St. Francis Center, 100 worship of Jesus present in the a light on the work of the Church to serve and help people settling Chapel, 350 N.W. California Blvd., Protection of Children W. 20th St., Riviera Beach. Gather Eucharist. Social follows. 561-622- Port St. Lucie. 772-336-9956. and Young People: The with others who are struggling 2565. and making new homes in the Adoration: First Fridays, after Catholic Diocese of Palm Beach in the aftermath of abortion. United States. Stations of the Cross for 8 am Mass, , ending with 7 p.m. is committed to the safety and Meetings designed to give hope Week of Prayer for Christian priests: Jan. 27, following Benediction, St. Peter Parish, 1701 protection of all children and and provide healing. 561-360- Unity: Jan. 18-25, invites the 8:30 a.m. Mass, Cathedral of St. Indian Creek Parkway, Jupiter. vulnerable adults in its care. 3325 whole Christian community Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Military 561-575-0837. Victims of abuse by Church • Respite services to St. Lucie Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. 561- throughout the world to pray in Adoration: First Fridays and personnel are encouraged to County caregivers: Short-term or 371-1658. communion with the prayer of Jesus “that they all may be one” every Saturday, 9:15 a.m.-5 p.m., contact the diocesan victim temporary care of a few hours a Caritas Christi celebration: (Jn 17:21). St. Lucie Parish, 280 S.W. Prima assistance coordinator Lorraine week. 561-360-3321. Jan. 28, 6 p.m., Sailfish Point Sabatella, 561-801-0999, to Vista Blvd., Port St. Lucie. Also • Rosary gathering: First Country Club, 2203 S.E. Sailfish Catholic Grandparents begin necessary emotional, Thursdays, 9:15 a.m.-7 p.m. 772- Saturdays, 9 a.m., near Point Blvd., Hutchinson Island, Association chapters meetings: psychological and spiritual 878-1215. Presidential Women’s Center in Stuart. Hosted by St. Joseph Monthly gatherings are held at healing. For more information on Parish. Mardi Gras theme. various parishes. All grandparents WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 FLORIDACatholic VENICE DIOCESE

Merry Christmas! et us rejoice that Our Savior hasChri been born into the uworld. e Svi s Bn peace that is Christ has come down to earth, o ering God’s Love and Mercy to all. May the world see the glory of Christ revealed in an infant born in a manger. n this Christmas Season, when the birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated, let us remember those in spiritual and material need, particularly in the land of His birth. ay we come to know more fully the tenderness of God. Pray that the peace and tranquility that is Christ will be evidenced in our lives and throughout the world. ave a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. +Bishop Frank J. Dewane Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 2

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE

Father Luis Pacheco, left, and Father Russell Ruggiero of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Naples pray before a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe Youth participate in a Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe procession following Dec. 12 Mass at Our Lady Dec. 9. of Grace Parish in Avon Park. Patroness celebrated across Diocese Bob Reddy of the Florida Catholic staff

Avon Park | Tradition, prayer, reverence and music marked the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pa- troness of the Americas, throughout the Diocese of Venice. Celebrated Dec. 12, the feast is often extended to link to the Dec. 9 feast of St. Juan Diego, the day in 1531 when Our Lady appeared ‘The Virgin to the saint near Mary, modern-day Mexico City. Par- every ishes through- out the Diocese single day, celebrated this she’s there special day with a variety of events for us.’ including Mass- Left, Aztec dancers perform as part of a celebration of Our es, overnight vig- Lady of Guadalupe at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Naples — Maria ils, early morning Dec. 9. Above, dancers perform Dec. 10 during a three-day Ramirez celebrations and celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe at Jesus the Worker even outdoor fes- Parish in Fort Myers. tivities. “The Virgin Mary is there for Juan Diego returned to the spot and us, every single day, ,” said Maria in the middle of winter, Our Lady Ramirez, of Our Lady of Grace Par- provided beautiful roses to wrap in ish in Avon Park. “This is one day St. Juan Diego’s tilma, a cloak made when we give thanks to her and of cactus fibers. honor her.” When he opened the tilma for For Juan Lopez of Jesus the Work- the bishop, the roses fell to the floor er Parish in Fort Myers, the celebra- and an impression of Our Lady ap- tion is “every holiday wrapped into peared on the tilma in the form an one. Our Lady of Guadalupe is the indigenous woman. acceptance of the Hispanic people This apparition led to the conver- into the Universal Catholic Church. sion of Mexico almost overnight, We were welcomed by the Blessed when up to that time Catholic mis- Virgin Mary with open arms. What sionaries from Europe had made an honor, an important moment very little headway. that deserves our prayerful thanks The Basilica of Our Lady of Gua- and to be celebrated.” dalupe in Mexico City was built on Our Lady appeared to St. Juan the site of the apparitions and is one Diego on his way to Mass and asked, of the most visited religious shrines in his native language, to have the in the world. It is also home of the bishop build a church in her honor. tilma, which can still be seen nearly A mariachi band plays during an early morning service on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at Holy The bishop later asked for a sign. St. 500 years later. n Cross Parish in Palmetto. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) 3 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018

Couples participate in a Marriage Enrichment day Dec. 2 at St. Cecilia Parish in Fort Mothers and daughters have tea and pastries at the end of a Dec. 2 retreat at St. Myers. Patrick Parish in Sarasota. Family Life Office holds two events Bob Reddy ish in Sarasota. The retreat, led by each other and to build stronger Cecilia Parish in Fort Myers for a own marriage stories which in- of the Florida Catholic staff Katie Hartfiel, guided the moth- relationships through the Lord Marriage Enrichment Day retreat. cluded struggle but also strength ers and daughters — who ranged and the Blessed Virgin Mary. The The day focused on renewing and a foundation in the Lord. SARASOTA | Two separate but in age from early teens to their 70s women were encouraged to share and strengthening marriages in The Family Life Office is in the equally important retreats took — on a journey that weaved en- their dreams and plans, and the the richness and beauty of the process of planning for additional place the first weekend of Decem- gaging talks with powerful prayer gifts they find in each other. The Catholic faith through Sacramen- events to help strengthen families ber, a perfect prelude to the Ad- and extraordinary fun to create an day culminated with an afternoon tal grace. Using the Symbolon in their faith. To lean more, con- vent season. experience of a lifetime. tea, complete with pastries. video series “Beloved: Finding tact Kim Elsmore at elsmore@ The first event was a Mother- As the day progressed, Hartfiel That same day the Family Life Happiness in Marriage” as the dioceseofvenice.org. n Daughter Retreat and Tea, which offered ways for the mothers and Office encouraged couples from basis for the class, the instructors, took place Dec. 2 at St. Patrick Par- daughters to better understand around the Diocese to gather at St. two married couples, shared their Students help counterparts affected by Irma

Bob Reddy see firsthand the lingering signs Representa- of the Florida Catholic staff of damage which await repairs. tives of St. During the tour, the Bradenton Joseph Cath- n aples | In an amazing ges- students saw rooms without car- olic School in Bradenton ture of kindness and unity, the stu- peting, windows that are boarded present a dents of St. Joseph Catholic School up and plastic sheets where ceiling check for in Bradenton presented a check to tiles should be. They also learned $11,750 to their counterparts at St. Elizabeth from Niebuhr that it will take up to St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School in Naples four months to complete repairs Seton Catho- who are still recovering from the after all of the insurance claims lic School in damages caused by Hurricane are settled. Naples Dec. Irma. As a small token of gratitude, 8 to help pay The presentation of $11,750 took the St. Joseph group was presented for dam- place at the conclusion of Mass with gifts including #SetonStrong ages from Dec. 8, the feast of the Immaculate T-shirts, the motto of the school Hurricane Conception of the Blessed Virgin as it continues to rebuild follow- Irma. (BOB Mary, and will be used to help with ing the hurricane. They then had REDDY | FC) repairs from the devastating Sept. lunch with their counterparts 10 hurricane. St. Joseph student which included cookies and ice council members and Principal cream. Niebuhr presented Sud- Deborah Suddarth surprised St. darth with a stuffed eagle, the Elizabeth Principal Maria Niebuhr mascot of Seton and a sign that the with the amount of the check. two schools are forever linked. others,” Suddarth added. “My stu- ther Tomasz Zalewski wished the cookies, cakes and soups. The stu- “We thank you for this wonder- Suddarth said at St. Joseph, the dents wanted to know what they Parish could do more, “but as we dents and families were very sup- ful gift,” Niebuhr said. “We are only Catholic School in Manatee could do to help. When they were heard in the Gospel (Luke 1:26-28), portive as they worked on behalf of grateful for you.” County, the school community preparing for their annual carni- everything is possible with God. another school, even though they Niebuhr said the outpouring of knows they are part of the larger val, the students decided to have This is proof of it. We are so blessed were in the midst of the hard work love from people across the nation Diocese, something much big- a cookie drive. We are honored to to have your support in more ways and preparations for their own fall in the wake of the storm has been ger than themselves. After Irma, help you stay #SetonStrong.” than just this check.” carnival. wonderful, “and it has also been there was debris at the Bradenton Father Russell Ruggiero, St. The large check came when the Jack Thomas of the student wonderful to see the love shown school, but no damage, so when Elizabeth Seton Parish Pastor, St. Joseph School board approved council was the most successful from the people in our own Dio- Suddarth learned about the exten- complimented the St. Joseph a special fundraiser that would be fundraiser, selling $1,483 worth of cese.” sive damage at St. Elizabeth Seton, Catholic School community, not- dedicated to assist in the recovery items, and like the other students, The St. Joseph group, which she knew it was a worthy cause. ing that just like Seton, the Braden- efforts at St. Elizabeth Seton Cath- he was excited that he could help raised the money through bake “We are not a wealthy school ton school and parish make many olic School. those in need. What a great con- sales, was given a tour of St. Eliz- but we are a school that is rich in sacrifices to help others. Father As a result, the students sold tribution and learning experience abeth Seton Catholic School to faith and service wanting to help Ruggiero said St. Joseph Pastor Fa- thousands of dollars’ worth of for all.n Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 4

APPOINTMENTS Bishop Frank J. Dewane Seminarian takes important step announces the following appointment: Staff Report

Effective Nov. 13 W eston, Mass. | Diocese of Father Thobias Sabariar, Mis- Venice seminarian Mark A. Har- sionaries of Compassion, as Pa- ris, who is discerning his voca- rochial Vicar, Our Lady of Guadalupe tion to the priesthood at Pope St. Parish/soup kitchen, Immokalee. John XXIII National Seminary Florida in Weston, Mass., was among 20 men conferred to the Ministry of Catholic Acolyte during a DIOCESE OF VENICE Obituaries Mass Dec. 6. The Minis- Vol. 79, No. 4 try of Acolyte is Two retired one of service at 1000 Pinebrook Road the altar. Harris Venice, FL 34285 is now charged 941-484-9543 • Fax 941-483-1121 Mark Harris with assisting at priests die the celebration of Diocese of Venice Seminarian Mark Harris, who is currently studying PUBLISHER the Eucharist, purifying the sacred at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Mass., is Bishop Frank Dewane Staff Report vessels and assisting with the dis- conferred to the Ministry of Acolyte Dec. 6 by Bishop Joseph C. DIOCESAN EDITOR tribution of the Eucharist. Bambera of Scranton, Pa. Bob Reddy VENICE | Two priests who In describing the role of an Aco- [email protected] served in their retired years within lyte, the seminary wrote: “Think of Acolyte brings these seminarians this vessel with bread for the cel- 941-484-9543 the Diocese of Venice have recently the man who brought the scroll to closer to their full commitment to ebration of the Eucharist. Make died. Jesus in the synagogue, or the boy the Church at ordination.” your life worthy of your service • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: Father Raymond Hughes, a whose loaves and fishes provided The principal celebrant for the at the table of the Lord and of his Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, member of the Congregation of the food that Our Lord multiplied for Mass was Bishop Joseph C. Bam- Church.” n or customerservice@theflorida Resurrection, died Nov. 5. He was thousands, or Joseph of Arimathea bera of Scranton, Pa. As part of the catholic.org 82. Father Peter F. Brudzynski died who provided the tomb and lin- rite, the Bishop placed the paten, For information about the Diocese Notify us of address changes (temporary Dec. 9. He was 91. ens for the burial of the crucified which contains the hosts for the of Venice seminarians and how to or permanent) as soon as possible. Please Ordained in 1975, Father Hughes Christ. It’s a ministry of attentive celebration of Mass, in the hands support them, call 941-484-9543. change your address online at www. served in Canada, Bermuda, Ja- service and love. The Ministry of of each candidate and said, “Take thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at maica, Bolivia and Kentucky. Since 1-888-275-9953. 2003, Father Hughes served within the Diocese of Venice at St. William • ADVERTISING: Contact Valerie Casko at 407-373-0075 or Parish in Naples, Resurrection Par- Student’s artwork displayed [email protected] ish in Fort Myers and St. Francis • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at Xavier Parish in Fort Myers. A Mass 1-888-275-9953, or of Christian Burial was celebrated at national basilica [email protected] Dec. 7 in Waterloo, Ontario. A priest who assisted at Epipha- Staff Report ognized by the association. State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; ny Cathedral in Venice from 1981 As part of the honor, Annie Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll- to 2008, Father Brudzynski also SRA A SotA | A third-grader was invited to receive the award free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 served as a U.S. Navy Chaplain for at St. Martha Catholic School and be recognized during a re- more than 30 years before retiring to in Sarasota recently took a trip ception Dec. 1 at the Washing- EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: Southwest Florida. A Funeral Mass to Washington, D.C., as she was ton basilica. The visit included a Associate Publisher: Ann Borowski Slade was celebrated by Bishop Frank J. one of the top winners of the 2017 Mass and her receiving a plaque. Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Business Manager: Pat Spencer Dewane Dec. 13 at Epiphany Cathe- Missionary Childhood Associa- In her art class, taught by Mary Jo Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro dral. Burial will be in Salem, Mass. n tion Art Contest. Salomone, students were asked Marketing Advertising Associate: Michael Annie Maloni’s work is on to participate in several contests Carlock display at the Basilica of the Na- each year, so Annie was surprised Advertising Graphic Designer: tional Shrine of the Immaculate to receive the honor from the Mis- Michael Jimenez Conception throughout Advent sionary Childhood Association. Advertising Sales Associate: Valerie Casko Newsbrief and through the Christmas Sea- Julie Maloni, Annie’s mother, Advertising Sales Associate: Tim Shea son. Annie’s artwork features said Annie enjoyed the special Have a comment/want more info/ Christmas TV Mass the Three Kings who visited the day and that it was an honor have a story suggestion? Leave your The Televised Christmas Day Child Jesus on the Epiphany. and beautiful start to the Advent Annie Maloni feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; Mass for the Homebound will air She is one of 24 winners of the Season. She took special note to click reader feedback link in the top menu. in the northern portions of the Dio- 2017-2018 Missionary Childhood thank Salomone for submitting countries and helps make Jesus Send statewide news releases to cese for one hour at 9:30 a.m. on Association Christmas Artwork the artwork. known to children all over the [email protected] CW Network, and in the southern Contest, which annually invites The Missionary Childhood As- world. Under its banner “chil- portions of the Diocese at 8 a.m. on students in grades kindergarten- sociation was founded in France dren helping children,” monies Our staff meets for prayer each work day at WFTX-TV (FOX-4). For more infor- eight in Catholic schools, parish in 1843 by Bishop Charles de raised through schools are di- 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ mation, contact Gail Ardy, 941-486- religious education programs and Forbin Jansen. Its purpose is rected toward self-help programs thefloridacatholic.org 4714, [email protected]. Catholic home-school programs to encourage all children to be involving the building of schools, All contents copyright © 2017, The Florida to submit Christmas-themed art- aware of the needs of children liv- the provision of health and nutri- Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from work to the national office in New ing in Mission Dioceses through- tion programs and medications, Catholic News Service. York. This is the second year in a out the world and support them school fees, and teaching and row that a student from St. Mar- both spiritually and sacrificially. learning resources. n tha Catholic School has been rec- Today, the association is in 110

The Florida Catholic (ISSN 0746-4584) publishes semi-monthly for the Dioceses of Or- per’s policy and standards in Catholic Press Association. The appearance of advertising in all media. Political advertising not accepted. Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, lando, Palm Beach and Venice for $24 per year in Florida, $30 per year in the U.S., and in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services and products. Com- FL 32862 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The $95 per year foreign, by The Florida Catholic Inc., 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, plaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or to your local Florida Catholic, P.O. Box 4993, Orlando, FL 32802-4993. Member, Catholic Press As- FL 32801-1619. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertisements contrary to pa- Better Business Bureau. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising sociation; subscriber to Catholic News Service (CNS). 5 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Retreat focuses on link between science and religion

Bob Reddy per. Dr. Janice Novello, a former of Bishop Verot High School, and of the Florida Catholic staff NASA Teacher in Space and current George Smith, Diocese Director Diocesan school board member, led of Youth and Young Adults, spoke Venice | About 70 teens from the challenge in which the lander about how many of the great scien- seven different parishes gathered had to land safely so that the marsh- tific achievements could trace their for a day of fun and enlightenment mallow crew could survive impact. origins to the Church. They stressed when they participated in the Dec. 9 The young boys and girls worked there is no conflict between the Diocese of Venice STREAM middle together to create the best design. Catholic faith and science and how school retreat at Our Lady of Perpet- The youth also did activities with they complement the existence of ual Help Retreat Center in Venice. a representative of the Florida Stu- God. The fun part was doing science dio Theatre who had them work Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrat- and experiments and exciting ac- on improvisational games to learn ed the closing Mass for the youth tivities to help them appreciate the communications and presenta- and told them that he prayed they importance of STREAM (science, tional skills. learned something about science technology, religion, engineering, In the afternoon, Pam Stenzel, and their faith but also about them- arts and mathematics) in the world. from Community Pregnancy Clin- selves, adding that they are called In the morning, students worked ics Inc., discussed the sanctity of by God to more — more the men on building a homemade lunar human life and gave a tour of a pro- and women of God — than they lander using everyday items, such life mobile clinic. are today. How they go about find- as marshmallows, straws and pa- Father Casey Jones, Chaplain ing that path is important. “Do it by building your relationship with the Middle schoolers do a science experiment during a STREAM retreat Lord,” he said. n Dec. 9 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC)

Dr. Janice Novello, former NASA Teacher in Space and current Diocesan school board member, instructs middle schoolers working Father Casey Jones, left, Chaplain of Bishop Verot High School, and George Smith, Diocese Director of on a science experiment during a STREAM retreat Dec. 9 at Our Lady Youth and Young Adults, speak about how there is no conflict between the Catholic faith and science of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. during a STREAM retreat Dec. 9 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice.

An older student Newsbriefs teaches a younger Making student about connections how to Students from four Salesian “talk” to a high schools in Florida gathered at computer at St. John Neumann Catholic High St. Martha School in Naples Dec. 9 for the third Catholic annual D.E.C. (Day Everyone Con- School in nects) South. It was a day of activi- Sarasota ties, prayer, food and fun, as every- during an one focused on making real connec- “Hour of tions. Code” event Dec. 7. Hour of Code (COURTESY) in Sarasota Students at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota, from Pre-K to eighth grade, took part in an “Hour of Code” event Dec. 7, learning and communicating with computers. With the world going digital, it is im- portant for students to learn how to communicate with the computers and the computer languages that Students from four Salesian high schools in Florida gather Dec. 9 at are available. Throughout the day, St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples for the third annual the older students were paired with D.E.C. (Day Everyone Connects) South. (COURTESY) their younger counterparts. Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 6

Newsbriefs Advent Mass 2017 Christmas Appeal Bishop encourages students Catholic Charities holds its an- nual Christmas Appeal during December and January. The goal is to raise $560,000, and your gifts are much appreciated. The appeal is the agency’s largest fundraiser to better know Jesus and critical to its operation. Dona- tions will benefit Catholic Charities Bob Reddy ‘Christ knows who you programs and services available of the Florida Catholic staff throughout Southwest Florida that are and He wants us assist individuals, families and se- FORT MYERS | In the heart of all to know Him in our niors all year long. Thank you for Advent, Bishop Frank J. Dewane your giving spirit. To donate, visit celebrated Mass for the students at own lives.’ www.catholiccharitiesdov.org or Bishop Verot Catholic High School mail a donation to Catholic Chari- in Fort Myers, encouraging them Bishop Frank J. Dewane ties Diocese of Venice Inc., 5824 Bee to take the time before Christmas Ridge Road, PMB 409, Sarasota, FL to develop a closer relationship Advent is about the coming of 34233-5065. with Jesus Christ. Christ at Christmas, but it is also “Advent is a time of prepara- about the Second Coming, when Mass celebrates tion and a time of waiting,” Bishop Christ will be among us again, the Dewane said Dec. 5. “It is also a Bishop added. “Are you prepared Haitian time of knowing Jesus Christ; not for that? You cannot grow this re- independence just knowing about Christ. There lationship in the classroom, or for is real difference. Simply because a few seconds before you go to bed Bishop Frank J. Dewane invites we know about him, we think it’s at night. Get it right. Take the time. everyone to a Mass Jan. 1, 2 p.m., enough. You know what, if that You might say you are too busy, but at St. Leo Parish, 28290 Beaumont is your approach, you are wrong. watch out; Judas got busy. Don’t Road, Bonita Springs, which cel- It might help you on a theology let worldly distractions get in the Bishop Frank J. Dewane is presented with a Bishop Verot Catholic ebrates Haitian independence and exam, but it needs to be more.” way, and take this time seriously High School T-shirt following Mass in Fort Myers Dec. 5. (PHOTOS the role of Haitian Catholics in the Just like getting to know a to work at knowing Christ. I know BY BOB REDDY | FC) Diocese. Bishop Joseph Gontrand friend over time, your perception you can do it.” Décoste, Jesuits, Diocese of Jéré- changes about that person and During the Mass, which was BISHOP LEARNS ABOUT NEW STUDENT mie, Haiti, is the guest celebrant. A the relationship grows. “What you delayed by two months because of reception follows in the Parish hall. think you know about Jesus may Hurricane Irma, Bishop Dewane LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE be completely wrong,” Bishop De- told the students that the Verot Following the Mass, student repre- The House system encourages Fashion show wane said. “You must work on it. community and the people of Fort sentatives presented Bishop Frank J. mentoring younger students by the up- Christ knows who you are and He Myers and Cape Coral were in Jan. 13 Dewane with a grey Verot T-shirt as a perclassmen. Just in the first few months wants us all to know Him in our his prayers during the storm, and symbol of the new student leadership ef- of the academic year, there have been A fashion show to benefit Our own lives.” continue to be as the school and fort at the high school, which is moving several community service projects with Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat Cen- The reason we each need to the community continue on their from a student government to a House the Houses competing with each other, ter in Venice will take place Jan. 13, develop this relationship is that journey toward recovery. n system. including a hurricane relief supply drive, 11:30 a.m., at Jacaranda Trace, 3000 The student body is separated into six canned food drive for Catholic Charities, William Penn Way, Venice. The af- communities with eight Houses in each and a shoebox drive for the Samaritan’s ternoon of friendship, fashion and community. Each House then has 11-13 Purse Operation Christmas Child that food, hosted by Connie Blum, will members. The members are students collected 220 filled shoeboxes. benefit the retreat center. Fashions of all grades with a senior and junior The Houses join the community for are by Chicos and Patchingtons. leader. Each House also has a modera- monthly Adoration and meet twice a For tickets: www.olph-retreat.org, tor (staff member). The premise of the week. The communities are represented 941-486-0233. change is to offer more opportunity for by six different shirt colors. Bishop De- leadership than the traditional student wane was presented with the grey shirt School festival government, and it allows for relation- of the St. Francis of Assisi Community. ships to be formed between students The other House names are: St. Teresa of Jan. 11-14 who may otherwise never know one Calcutta, St. Francis de Sales, St. Augus- St. Andrew Catholic School, another. tine, St. Clare, and St. Cecilia. 2628 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, invites everyone to the annual fes- tival which takes place Jan. 11-14. Admission is free. Ticket prices vary for food, rides, games and raffles. Hours are: Thursday, 6-10 p.m.; Friday, 6-11 p.m.; Saturday, Complimentary Students at Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers Consultation noon-11 p.m.; Sunday, noon-10 p.m. participate in a Mass celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. Pre-sale ride bracelets are $55 and are available at https://standrewcs. RN Health Advocates LLC org/about-us/festival/. Ride ticket bracelets on day of festival are $75. Ge th M  fro Your Healthcar For more details, visit the website or Empower yourself or your loved one call 239-772-3922. • Family support in managing healthcare when you can’t be there • Coaching, coordinate care, collaborate with all providers Coach reaches • Private and Customized Initial Health History Document Services 11326-1222 400th win • Individual wellbeing and preventative coaching • ½ hour complimentary “Meet and Greet” consultation Matt Hering, Bishop Verot Cath- olic High School boys basketball Contact Mar or Charlen Today! coach, reached a milestone Dec. 8 10075-1222 239-908-6905 • [email protected] with his 400th win in a home vic- Visit online at: www.innerstrengthadvocates.com tory over Clewiston High School. YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018

SERVICES ARE IN ENGLISH DIOCESE OF VENICE UNLESS NOTED.

ARCA DIA BRADENTON ENGLEWOOD FORT MYERS cont. LABELLE ■ St. Paul ■ Sacred Heart ■ St. Raphael ■ St. Francis Xavier ■ Holy Martyrs 1208 E. Oak St. 1220 15th St. W. 770 Kilbourne Ave. 2157 Cleveland Ave. 4290 Crescent Ave. S.W. 863-494-2611 mysacredheart.com www.StRaphEng.org www.stfrancisfm.org 863-675-0030 CHRISTMAS EVE 941-748-2221 941-474-9595 239-334-2161 CHRISTMAS EVE 4 p.m. 10 p.m., midnight (Spanish) CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 5 p.m. (Spanish) CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (Spanish), 10 p.m. 4 p.m., 10:30 p.m. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. 9 a.m., noon (Spanish) CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY ■ Our Lady Queen 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 6:45 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:15 of Heaven AVE MARIA p.m., 2 p.m. (Polish), 4 p.m. (Haitian) 355 S. Bridge St. ■ Ss. Peter and Paul EVERGLADES CITY 863-675-0030 2850 75th St. W. ■ St. John XXIII CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Ave Maria 13060 Palomino Lane 5068 Annunciation Circle, Ste. 101 www.sspeterandpaul.org 5 p.m., 7:30 p.m. (Spanish) ■ Holy Family www.johnxxiii.net www.avemariaparish.org 941-795-1228 200 Dat ura Ave. CHRISTMAS DAY 239-561-2245 239-261-5555 CHRISTMAS EVE 239-394-5181 9 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. (Spanish) 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 9 p.m., 11 p.m. 5 p.m., midnight CHRISTMAS DAY 10:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. (Vietnamese) LAKE PLACID CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. 7:15 a.m., 9:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m. ■ St. James ■ St. Joseph FORT MYERS 3100 26th St. W. 3380 Placid View Drive AVON PARK www.sjc .org ■ Jesus the Worker ■ St. Vincent de Paul 863-465-3215 881 Nuna Ave. 13031 Palm Beach Blvd. CHRISTMAS EVE 941-756-3732 5:30 p.m., 9 p.m. ■ Our Lady of Grace CHRISTMAS EVE www.jesustheworker.org www.stvincentfortmyers.org 595 E. Main St. 4 p.m., 7 p.m., 10:30 p.m. 239-693-0818 CHRISTMAS DAY 239-693-5333 8 a.m., 10 a.m. www.ologap.org CHRISTMAS DAY (ALL MASSES IN SPANISH) CHRISTMAS EVE 863-453-4757 9 a.m., 11 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE 7 p.m. 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY ■ Santiago Apostol Mission CHRISTMAS EVE 685 County Road 621 E. 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m. (Spanish) CHRISTMAS DAY 9 a.m., 11 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY BUCKHEAD RIDGE 9 a.m., noon 863-385-0049 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St.  eresa of the ■ San Jose FORT MYERS 7 p.m. (Spanish) Child Jesus 1075 0 Gladiolus Drive CHRISTMAS DAY BEACH 10 a.m. (Spanish) BOCA GRANDE 1027 Chobee Loop 239-639-5333 863-946-0696 ■ Ascension ■ Our Lady of Mercy (ALL MASSES IN SPANISH) CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 6025 Estero B lvd. LAKEWOOD R ANCH 240 Park Ave. 4 p.m. 239-463-6754 941-964-2254 7 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Our Lady of the Angels CHRISTMAS EVE 10 a.m. Noon 7 p.m., 9 p.m. 5 p.m., 10 p.m. 12905 State Road 70 E. CHRISTMAS DAY www.olangelscc.org CHRISTMAS DAY 8 a.m., 10 a.m. 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. CAPE CORAL 941-752-6770 ■ Our Lady of Light CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Andrew 19680 Cypress View Drive GROV E CITY 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. BOKEELIA 2628 Del Pra do Blvd. S. www.ourladyo ight.com CHRISTMAS DAY www.standrewrcc.org 239-267-7088 ■ St. Francis of Assisi 9 a.m., 11 a.m. ■ Our Lady of the 239-574-4545 CHRISTMAS EVE 5265 Placida Road Miraculous Medal 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE www.sfoachurch.com LEHIGH ACRES 12175 Stringfellow Road 6 p.m., 6:15 p.m., 8 p.m. (Spanish), CHRISTMAS DAY 941-697-4899 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. www.miraculousmedalch.org 11 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Raphael 239-283-0456 CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 9 p.m. 2514 Lee Blvd. 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY 239-369-1831 6:30 p.m. p.m. (Spanish) ■ Resurrection of Our Lord 8 a.m., 10 a.m. 8121 Cypress Lake Drive CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 4 p.m. ■ St. Katharine Drexel www.ResurrectionCh.org 1922 S.W. 20th Ave. CHRISTMAS DAY 239-481-7172 HOLMES BEACH 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, 4 p.m. (Spanish) saintkatharinedrexelparish.org CHRISTMAS EVE BONITA SPRINGS 239-283-9501 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 10 p.m. ■ St. Berna rd 248 S. Harbor Drive CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY LONGBOAT KEY ■ St. Leo 4 p.m., 6 p.m., midnight 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., www.stbernardcc.com 28290 Beaumont Road CHRISTMAS DAY 1:15 p.m. (Latin) 941-778-4769 ■ St. Mary, Star of the Sea www.stleocatholicchurch.org 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. CHRISTMAS EVE 4280 Gulf of Mexico Drive 239-992-0901 ■ S t. Cecilia 4 p.m., 10 p.m. www.stmarylbk.org CHRISTMAS EVE 5632 S unrise Drive CHRISTMAS DAY 941-383-1255 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. CLEWISTON www.saintcecilias.org CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY 239-936-3635 4 p.m., 9 p.m. 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., ■ Santa Rosa de Lima CHRISTMAS EVE 5 p.m. (Spanish) 835 N. Ma yoral St. CHRISTMAS DAY 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 9 p.m. IMMOKALEE 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. Montura Ranch Estates CHRISTMAS DAY 863-983-8585 9 a.m., 11 a.m. ■ Our Lady of Guadalupe BOWLING GREEN CHRISTMAS EVE 2 19 S. 9th St. 7 p.m. (Spanish) 239-657-2666 ■ Holy Child ■ St. Columbkille CHRISTMAS EVE 4315 Chester Ave. CHRISTMAS DAY 12171 Iona Road 8 a.m. (Spanish) 7 p.m. (Spanish), 10 p.m. (Creole) 863-773-4089 www.stcolumbkille.com CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE 239-489-3973 9 a.m., 10:15 a.m. (Spanish), 7 p.m. (Spanish) ■ St. Margaret 208 N. Deane Du Ave. CHRISTMAS EVE 12:15 p.m. (Spanish), 3 p.m. (Creole), CHRISTMAS DAY 5:30 p.m., 10 p.m. 7 p.m. (Spanish) 2 p.m. (Spanish) 863-983-8585 CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 8:30 p.m. (Spanish), 10:30 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 10 a.m., noon (Spanish) Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY

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MARCO ISLAND NAPLES cont. PALMETTO SARASOTA SEBRING ■ San Marco ■ St. Peter the Apostle ■ Holy Cross ■ Christ the King ■ St. Catherine 851 San Marco Road 5130 Rattlesnake Hammock Road 505 26th St. W. 1900 Meadowood St. 820 Hickory St. www.sanmarcochurch.com stpeterchurch.naples.net 941-729-3891 www.Christthekingsarasota.org www.stcathe.com 239-394-5181 239-774-3337 CHRISTMAS EVE 941-924-2777 863-385-0049 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 4 p.m., 9 p.m. (Spanish) (ALL MASSES IN LATIN) CHRISTMAS EVE 3:45 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 10 p.m. 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 9 p.m., 10:30 CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE 4 p.m., 9 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY p.m. (Creole), midnight (Spanish) 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) midnight CHRISTMAS DAY 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon (Spanish) 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 2 p.m. (Spanish), 3:30 p.m. (Creole) PARRISH MOORE HAVEN ■ Incarnation VENICE ■ St. William ■ St. Frances ■ St. Joseph the Worker 2901 Bee Ridge Road ■ Epiphany Cathedral 750 Seagate Drive Xavier Cabrini www.incarnationchurch.org 1800 N. U.S. Highway 27 12001 69th St. E. 350 Tampa Ave. W. www.stwilliam.org 941-921-6631 863-946-0696 www.stfrancesxcabrini.org www.epiphanycathedral.org 239-261-4883 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 941-776-9097 4 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m., 10 p.m. (Polish) 941-484-3505 7:30 p.m. (Spanish) CHRISTMAS EVE 2:45 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:15 p.m., CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 3:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 9 p.m. (Polish), 10 p.m. 4 p.m., midnight 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 8 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY midnight 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY ■ Our Lady Queen 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. NAPLES of Martyrs NOCATEE PORT CHARLOTTE 6600 Pennsylvania Ave. ■ Our Lady of Lourdes ■ St. Agnes 941-755-1826 1301 Center Road 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Road ■ Capilla Católica de ■ San Antonio CHRISTMAS EVE www.ollvenice.org www.stagnesnaples.org San Juan Diego 24445 Rampart Blvd. 3 p.m., 5 p.m., midnight 941-497-2931 239-592-1949 5247 S.W. Highway 17 www.sanantoniocatholicchurch. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 863-494-2611 com 7:30 a.m., 10 a.m. 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 8 p.m. 4 p.m., 5 p.m. (Palmetto Ridge High School), 7 p.m., midnight, CHRISTMAS EVE 941-624-3799 CHRISTMAS DAY midnight (Latin) 6 p.m. (Spanish) CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Jude 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., midnight 3930 17th St. CHRISTMAS DAY 7:15 a.m. (Latin), 7:30 a.m., 8:45 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY www.stjudesarasota.com (Latin), 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. (Latin), 11 NORTH FORT 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 941-955-3934 WAUCHULA a.m., 1 p.m. (Spanish), 5 p.m. MYERS CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Charles Borromeo 5 p.m., 11 p.m. (Spanish) ■ St. Michael 408 Heard Bridge Road ■ St. Ann ■ St.  erese 2500 Easy St. CHRISTMAS DAY 985 ird St. S. 20155 N. Tamiami Trail www.stcharlespc.org 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m. (Spanish), 863-773-4089 10:30 a.m., noon (Spanish) CHRISTMAS DAY www.naplesstann.com www.sainttheresechurch.net 941-625-4754 8:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. (Spanish), 239-262-4256 239-567-2315 CHRISTMAS EVE 1 p.m. (Creole) CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 4 p.m., 6 p.m., midnight ■ St. Martha 4 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m. 4 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 200 N. Orange Ave. CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. (French www.stmartha.org ZOLFO SPRINGS 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 8 a.m., 10 a.m. Creole) 941-366-4210 CHRISTMAS EVE ■ San Alfonso ■ St. Elizabeth Seton ■ St. Maximilian Kolbe 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 9 p.m. (Vietnamese/ 3027 Schoolhouse Road 5225 Golden Gate Parkway NORTH PORT 1441 Spear St. Hall), 10 p.m., midnight 863-773-4089 www.saintelizabethseton.org Stmaxcatholic.org CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY ■ San Pedro 941-743-6877 7:30 a.m., 8 a.m. (Spanish/Hall), 10 a.m. (Spanish) 239-455-3900 14380 Tamiami Trail 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE www.sanpedrocc.org noon (Vietnamese/Hall), 5:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. (Spanish), 4:30 p.m., 8:15 p.m. midnight 941-426-2500 CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. ■ St. Michael the Archangel CHRISTMAS DAY 5:30 p.m., midnight 5394 Midnight Pass Road 9 a.m., 11 a.m. CHRISTMAS DAY www.stmichaelssiesta.com ■ St. Finbarr 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. PUNTA GORDA 941-349-4174 CHRISTMAS EVE 13520 Tamiami Trail E. ■ Sacred Heart 4 p.m., 10 p.m. www.st nbarr.org OSPREY 211 W. Charlotte Ave. CHRISTMAS DAY 239-417-2084 www.sacredheart .org 8 a.m., 10 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE ■ Our Lady of 941-639-3957 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. (Spanish) Mount Carmel CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Patrick CHRISTMAS DAY 425 S. Tamiami Trail 4 p.m., 10 p.m. 7900 Bee Ridge Road 8 a.m. (Spanish), 10 a.m. www.olmc-osprey.org CHRISTMAS DAY www.churchofstpatrick.org ■ St. John the Evangelist 941-966-0807 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 941-378-1703 CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS EVE 625 111th Ave. N. 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 4:15 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 10 p.m. www.saintjohntheevangelist.com SANIBEL CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS DAY 239-566-8740 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. CHRISTMAS EVE ■ St. Isabel 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 10 p.m. 3559 Sanibel Captiva Road www.saintisabel.com ■ St.  omas More CHRISTMAS DAY 2506 Gulf Gate Drive 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m. 239-472-2763 CHRISTMAS EVE www.stthomasmore.org 5 p.m., 10 p.m. 941-923-1691 CHRISTMAS DAY CHRISTMAS EVE 10:30 a.m. 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 10 p.m. CHRISTMAS DAY 9:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m. 9 FLORIDA NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018

DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH RESPECT LIFE PERSON OF THE YEAR Prisoner works to ‘be the example’ Earl J. ough County Jail awaiting sentenc- Spared the death Hinson ing. He was reading the Gospels sits for an and he prayed to God about how penalty, inmate interview at Martin does living the Gospel look in the seeks to serve as Correctional 21st century. Institution. “I asked, ‘Lord, send me some- servant of God and With body that I could emulate behind him is his these walls, that I could see how Magnificat, this looks,’” Hinson said. “And I in memory of his which he had this sense from the Holy Spirit carries of, ‘Be the example.’ And I would victims with him think, well, yes, that’s what I’m most of the JEAN GONZALEZ looking for, an example. But the day. (JEAN Holy Spirit was consistent: ‘Be the of the Florida Catholic staff GONZALEZ example.’ | FC) “That’s been a push to me when INDIANTOWN | Dressed in I feel burnout or frustration or lazy, laundry-worn prison blues, Earl J. I have to be an example here,” Hin- Hinson doesn’t stand out among son continued. “I can’t ask people fellow prisoners of Martin Correc- to be Christian and not be an ex- tional Institution. Thin and unas- ample of a Christian myself.” suming, his prison-issued light As Hinson speaks about being jacket looks a tad big on his 5-foot- an example to others, he mentions 7-inch frame. prison ministers he has met who Yet, as he sat down at a confer- inspire him. He said his mother is ence table of an interview room at also a great example of the faith. Al- the prison, located off the beaten though she suffered pain and sor- path in Indiantown, two things “At my sentencing hearing, the that Hinson was involved in a vio- tion, “How did I get here?” He was row for her son’s sins, she has not immediately stand out — Hin- mother of one of my victims … lent crime. When he heard about lying on the floor of the crowded abandoned him and continues to son’s wide, genuine smile and the made the comment that I was a the events, he thought Hinson was jail cell and thought “physically travel an almost three-hour trip to “Magnificat” book he carries with monster and looking at the facts of the victim not the perpetrator. and morally speaking it couldn’t visit him in prison every weekend, him always. He speaks about his the case I can’t disagree with that,” But Hinson said his inability to get very worse.” But then he envi- when possible. relationship with God, Jesus and Hinson recalled. “I really owe it to deal with situations happening in sioned an abyss, and realized he One of the greatest examples of the Holy Spirit freely and with open my victims and not just the ones of his life, especially his relationship could sink even lower by continu- faith that Hinson ever witnessed frankness. my crimes, but also my family and with his father and his parents’ ing on the same path, becoming came from a member of his vic- Hinson is a “lifer,” sent to prison their families and friends and loved divorce, led him to make one bad an even more violent criminal in tim’s family — the grandmother 16 ago years for horrendous crimes. ones to kill that monster. … Society decision after another. He had no prison and causing more suffering. of Eduardo Natal, who Hinson In his time behind bars, this would want people like me locked foundation of faith or a relation- But that wasn’t what Hinson killed. During the trial, prosecu- 37-year-old experienced a spiritual up for the rest of my life because ship with God to “fall back on,” wanted. tors approached Natal’s family to awakening that has led to receiv- there is a genuine fear that I could and instead relied on bad decisions He did repent at that moment — tell them they wished to seek the ing spiritual counseling, training go do something like that again. I coupled with destructive behavior sorry for his actions and the hurt death penalty in Hinson’s case. in different ministry services and have to make that an impossibil- and violence. they caused. He knew God could But Natal’s grandmother, the fam- being present for counseling his fel- ity.” “There was a series of lies I was do better with his life than Hinson ily matriarch, said the family was low inmates. In November, the Dio- Despite being the man who telling myself, of who I was. What I had done with his life for those first Catholic and didn’t believe in capi- cese of Palm Beach named him Re- committed those crimes in 2000, needed to be or how I should I act. 22 years. tal punishment. As a result, Hinson spect Life Person of the Year for his Hinson has tried to live a life of con- And I chose all the wrong influenc- “To this day there’s been a received life in prison without pa- work in completing certification version, and that path lies in a call- es during that timeframe to be my great awareness for the loss I have role instead of death. as a Rachel’s Vineyard facilitator, ing he believed he always had but foundation and support those lies,” caused, for the pain I have caused. “It was a very tangible expres- and helping facilitate more than a never pursued or acknowledged he said, admitting that the crimes Each day there is a greater contri- sion of faith on her part and it really dozen retreats for inmates suffering — a calling to be a priest. While he were a “test run.” tion, a growing contrition,” he said, rocked my world,” Hinson said. “In from a post-abortion experience. is not eligible for the priesthood be- “The one I really wanted to kill adding he won’t allow himself to a sense of desperation, I was get- “Working in the midst of great cause he is a felon, Hinson said he was my father. I just didn’t know if forget about his victims. “I can’t ting back into my faith and then darkness, our recipient has been could still live a life dictated by the it was possible. If I could do it.” pick up that eraser and say, ‘I wish it she does that, and all the sudden a beacon of hope and a light of tenets of vocation. He was arrested a day after the didn’t happen.’ I hurt them. They’re all that matters is living my life like Christ,” said Don Kazimir, director “What I try to do is live out my crimes — Mother’s Day. He was at always going to remember. How that.” of respect life for Catholic Charities baptism as priest and prophet. I am his mother’s house spending an dare I forget if they aren’t going to. of the Diocese of Palm Beach. “He offering my life as a sacrifice,” said evening with her and his grand- How dare I forget them when they PRISON MINISTRY has truly been a missionary to the the graduate of Tampa Catholic mother. Then the SWAT team have the curse of remembering me To broaden his faith life, Hin- many lost souls in the prison. He is High School. “By living a priestly showed up. at my worst.” son has sought services offered known as the ‘go-to guy’ if you want vocation as a sacrifice — to just “As they arrested me, they were through Catholic prison ministry. to learn about God.” say, ‘Lord I offer myself to you; use holding my mother at gunpoint. TRANSFORMING Martin Correctional, where Hinson Hinson is a changed man from me up’ — is about the only option I And it was very real to me how in- MOMENTS has been for nine years, is located the 22-year-old sentenced to life have that can slay the monster who nocent people were being hurt by Hinson said he has changed but within the Diocese of Palm Beach, in prison for first-degree murder, brought me to prison.” the choices I was making,” Hin- will not release himself from the where Deacon Don Battiston serves attempted murder and armed rob- son said, meaning not only the debt he owes his victims. In many as a Catholic chaplain. bery. But he cannot completely HOW DID HE GET HERE? three victims of his crimes and ways, it is that spiritual debt that Some eight years ago, Tom Law- separate himself from the man who Hinson lays the blame at his own their families, but people he would guided his conversion and leads lor, the now retired diocesan direc- committed those crimes that left feet when it comes to his crimes. have classified as unrelated to the him to serve others in prison. tor of prison ministry, approached one man dead of a single gunshot Yet, he does speak about his down- event because they weren’t there. He started studying his faith, a volunteer, Donna Gardner, about wound to the back of the head, and ward spiral that lead to the events “It really hit home when I saw my Scripture, the works of the doc- bringing Rachel’s Vineyard, a post- another man critically wounded of May 12-13, 2000. mother held at gunpoint. I am not tors of the Church and the saints, abortion healing ministry, within with 11 gunshot wounds. Another From all accounts, he had a an island. My decisions hurt inno- and it led him to transformation. the prison. Gardner, who now victim, a 16-year-old girl, escaped bright future. In a 2001 article by cent people.” The saints became a family to him, works in private practice but until death because the gun put to the the St. Petersburg Times, his cross- Locked up in county jail, Hinson whose counsel he relied on. September 2016 worked as dioc- back of her head did not fire when country coach from Tampa Catho- had the first of many soul-search- He recalled a transforming mo- the trigger was pulled. lic recalled how surprised he was ing experiences, asking the ques- ment when he was in the Hillsbor- PLEASE SEE PRISONER, 10 Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic FLORIDA NEWS 10

with my daughter and who she is. It Hinson described his experience Ministry to the incarcerated is to that of cloistered monks. PRISONER floored me,” he said. with Rachel’s Vineyard as a “voca- not an easy calling and it can have “Like monks who have cloistered FROM 9 Gardner described Hinson as a tion inside a vocation.” It is not the a negative connotation. It means themselves, we have the opportu- “super personable” guy who truly only ministry he has served. Just ministering to criminals, some of nity to lift the world up in prayer. had a relationship with the Lord before participating in Rachel’s whom are serving their second or We have the opportunity to lift our esan director of Rachel’s Vineyard and the Blessed Mother. She also Vineyard, he was teaching a cre- third term, some of whom will not victims, our families, our pains, for 16 years, said the experiment recognized his strong leadership ative writing class to inmates to see outside the walls for decades justices and injustices,” he said. to bring the ministry behind bars skills, and it sparked her to ask Law- help give voice to their thoughts and some, like Hinson, who will “Some men are spiritually inclined proved to be fruitful, as many pris- lor about the possibility of develop- and possibly have a project to work never again see the outside of pris- and take to that rather quickly. Oth- oners had experiences with abor- ing a Rachel’s Vineyard leadership on when they leave prison. He has on walls. Labels such as lost souls er men, it takes time to develop. The tion and sought healing. “inside team” — retreat leaders served as an orderly for the prison and limited futures might pigeon- good news is that they are a captive One of those men was Hinson. who are prisoners themselves. chaplain, in which he assists with hole the ministry and those served. audience. You really cling to Jesus When he was 18, and just out of “The thought was the inmates day-to-day activities. He previous- That might be another reason or you cling to the dark, depression high school, he got a call from a girl could continue to minister to their ly facilitated the prison’s DIRECT why Hinson’s calling is even more of this environment.” he had dated. She was pregnant brothers as they go through Rachel’s program — which stands for Direct satisfying and crucial. He said it is Praying for his victims is a criti- and she was going to get an abor- Vineyard,” Gardner said. “(Hinson) Involvement Reduces the Effects of easy to relate to the prisoners be- cal part of Hinson’s life because the tion. At the time, Hinson breathed went through the same rigorous Criminal Thinking — a behavior cause they are him. way the incarceration system oper- a sigh of relief, did nothing to stop it training that all go through on the modification program that ana- “I know I am a living, breath- ates, he is not able to contact them, and hung up the phone. outside. … It is a yearlong process lyzes the motivations for thinking ing human being and I know I even if it is in an act of contrition. He didn’t think about it again and he did great. He has been an in- patterns based on the 40 years of have an intrinsic value, because He would welcome them contact- until he was in prayer and incarcer- credible minister in the prison and study of criminals performed by that is what I feel in myself. Since ing him, even if it would be to lash ated. The experience was not as cut is helping build a beautiful culture psychologists Stanley Samenow I know that truth, the first thing I out at him because that might help and dried as he thought. Hinson of life behind the walls.” and Samuel Yochelson. try to do is to treat them by telling them heal. felt a sense of powerlessness and Lawlor agreed Hinson is an asset And when the Welcome Home them that truth — that they are But he knows their healing is believed his inability to care about to Rachel’s Vineyard and to many Initiative for prisoners who are also somebody worth knowing, that out of his hands. He is “betting the the girlfriend, his unborn child and prison ministry programs because veterans exhibiting Post-Traumatic they are a living, breathing human whole house” on the “miraculous the act of abortion became part of he lives an “absolutely legitimate” Stress Disorder was established in beings,” Hinson said. “The most reality that Jesus heals,” even if his the central lie that caused him to faith life. “He truly brings the light the prison, Hinson was asked to critical thing to help them grow in victims never forgive him. lash out and become violent. of Christ into a dark environment,” help facilitate and live in an dorm this environment where they have “I think about that night and When the opportunity to partici- Lawlor said, adding Hinson is a setting with veterans in the pro- the chance to heal themselves and morning regularly, and I make pate in Rachel’s Vineyard surfaced, perfect example of why the death gram. As such, he is able to be avail- maybe come to contrition for their it part of my prayer life. I walk Hinson was eager to participate in penalty is not necessary and should able for counseling 24/7. crimes and sins is that Jesus is a liv- through those memories with Je- the retreat experience tailored for not be used. “It is during his incar- ing, breathing person … reaching sus, and I ask Jesus to touch them the prison setting into 10-week ses- ceration that he brought his life INTRINSIC VALUE out for us, to have a personal rela- with healing, to help them,” he sions. But so were other inmates. back to Christ. The way he is liv- According to the Florida Depart- tionship with us.” said. “I can still choose to grow Hinson would have to wait until the ing his life, he is a living example of ment of Corrections, Hinson is one Hinson references St. Thomas closer to Jesus so that his grace third round of classes to participate. the faith 24 hours a day, seven days of 1,339 inmates living at Martin Aquinas as he describes a philoso- can take care of them. As long as I “It was more than I could have a week, in a place no one else can Correctional Institution. Of that phy of prayer in which he said it is continue to convert to the Lord and expected. Through the program reach. That wouldn’t be possible if population, Hinson is part of the possible that his life and the lives of offer them up in prayer, nothing is I was able to have an encounter he was given the death penalty.” roughly 27 percent who are lifers. his fellow lifers could be compared impossible with him.” n

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From all the staf of the FLORIDACatholic 11 FLORIDA NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018

MIAMI’S NEWEST AUXILIARY ‘A bishop for the people’; a ‘servant of the Lord’ Peruvian-born Enrique Delgado ordained as Miami’s newest auxiliary bishop ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO of the Florida Catholic staff

MIAMI | As applause and cheers filled St. Mary Cathedral Dec. 7, Miami’s newest auxiliary bishop placed his hand on his heart, bowed his head gently and smiled. Bishop Enrique Delgado’s ges- ture at his ordination ceremony — repeated also during his emotional remarks at the end — typified the humility and the attitude with which he assumes his new role. As he told the people of his par- ish, St. Katharine Drexel, at the solemn vespers the night before: “I have always said I am a parish priest for the people and now I am Co-consecrator Bishop John going to be a bishop for the people, Noonan of Orlando lays hands on because the mission of the Church Bishop Enrique Delgado, calling Bishop Enrique Delgado reacts to applause from the congregation and his fellow bishops as he takes is to serve. Jesus said it very clearly down the Holy Spirit. his place among them after the ordination rite. (PHOTOS BY ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO | FC) that we have to be servants of the servants, and that is what a priest Father Michael “Happy” Hoyer, de- the ordination rite is to present the and a bishop is called to be, so I just scribing his longtime friend. bishop-designate for ordination, want you to see me always as a ser- Father Hoyer, pastor of St. Grego- which Father Hoyer did. Immedi- vant of the Lord.” ry Parish in Plantation, has known ately after, Archbishop Christophe The former industrial engineer, the new bishop since before he en- Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the U.S., who also holds a master’s degree in tered the seminary, when he spent read the apostolic letter from Pope economics with specializations in six months at Our Lady Queen of Francis appointing Father Delgado finance and accounting, and a doc- Martyrs, where Father Hoyer was “titular bishop of Aquae Novae in torate in practical theology, is the pastor, learning about parish life in Proconsulari” and auxiliary bishop first Peruvian to be named a bishop Miami. to Miami. (All bishops must have a in the U.S. He becomes Miami’s Father Hoyer was part of the see, or geographic area to govern. 11th auxiliary bishop. Ordained a group of Miami priests who trav- Auxiliary bishops and others who priest for the Archdiocese of Miami eled to Peru for Bishop Delgado’s do not head dioceses are made “tit- Bishop Enrique Delgado greets visiting family members and friends in 1996 in his native Lima, he has priestly ordination. And he was one ular” shepherds of dioceses that no Dec. 6 at St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Weston, before the solemn served as pastor of two parishes of two priest chaplains at his ordi- longer exist.) vespers on the eve of his ordination (TOM TRACY | FC) here: St. Justin Martyr in Key Largo, nation to the episcopacy. The other “Is he a good choice? Yes,” said from 2003 to 2010, and St. Katharine was a link back home: Father Al- Father Hoyer, noting that no priest pointment are his numerous fam- 27-member contingent of siblings, Drexel in Weston since 2010. berto Ríos, the vicar general of the starts out with the expectation of ily members. Bishop Delgado is the nieces and nephews who traveled “In stature, a small bishop. But Archdiocese of Arequipa, Peru. becoming a bishop. “But when the fourth of 12 children born to Rafael to Miami for the ordination; 12 of in life in the Spirit, very big,” said The role of the priest chaplain in Spirit calls … ” and Carmen Delgado. them from Lima, the rest from Vir- In fact, Bishop Delgado told Fa- “My mother … is watching me in ginia and other parts of the U.S. ther Hoyer that when Archbishop heaven, and my father … is watch- Their father, now in his 80s, opted Pierre called him back in October ing me in the internet,” the new not to travel for the ordination. to ask if he would be willing to serve bishop noted in his closing remarks, “He was always close to the as bishop, “I had to say yes.” alluding to the live-streaming of the Church,” Rafael said of Enrique. “The Holy Father and the Holy ordination Mass on the archdioc- So the family was not terribly sur- Spirit (are calling). How are you go- esan website, YouTube and Face- prised when, at the age of 31, he de- ing to say no to that?” Father Hoyer book. cided to leave a successful career in said, adding that his friend is “very “She would really be very happy,” the secular world to enter the semi- excited and very happy. His life will said Bishop Delgado’s oldest broth- nary. “The surprise came when he change. He mentioned that” before er, Rafael, referring to their mother, said was coming to Miami to study” the ceremony. a daily Massgoer, who died a few — a place where he really had no Among the others who are very years ago. connections. happy with the new bishop’s ap- Rafael Delgado was part of a And now, he’s an auxiliary bish- op here. “Really, it’s like a dream,” Rafael TOURS OF THE ICONIC Delgado said. “Being a bishop is a Ave Maria Catholic Church special grace.” A grace and a privilege that Bish- are NOW available! op Delgado is taking quite seriously, 11280-1222 A Special Place to Visit, An Inspira ional Story according to Father Hoyer. Prior to the ordination Mass, he said, the Plan a Tour for Your new bishop told him, “I pray every 11835-1221 Group or Organizaion. night that I will do the Lord’s will in everything I do.” To schedule an individual or group tour, call: To which Father Hoyer said he Carole Carpenter, Director of Parish Advancement replied, “The mere fact that you are Ave Maria Parish • 239-249-2111 asking all the time to do God’s will means you are doing God’s will.” n Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic QUICK READS 12

FLORIDA a visit before Christmas to express the archdiocese was grateful to the “People do not have the money to versions of the prayer are translated his deep concern for the people and more than 200 victim-survivors buy enough food,” said Janeth Mar- from the Latin, which was trans- reach out in solidarity on his behalf who stepped forward to partici- quez, coordinator of Caritas Ven- lated from the New Testament in Catholic Days: to those who are suffering. Cardi- pate in the program. The archdio- ezuela, the Catholic Church’s aid Greek. While he said nothing about nal Cupich, who also is chancellor cese also renewed “our sorrow and agency. Because of hyperinflation, ordering a new translation, Pope Opportunity to put of Catholic Extension, tapped the shame at what to what they were the monthly minimum wage buys Francis noted how the French bish- faith into action Chicago-based papal society to as- forced to endure” in the document. just four boxes of eggs. Tomorrow ops had decided that beginning sist with his trip. Making over a doz- The report outlined the program’s it might be worth even less. The Dec. 3, the first Sunday of Advent, Catholics are urged to participate en stops, the group visited a variety progress and reviewed steps the Venezuelan government does not French Catholics would change the in the annual Catholic Days at the of people and places, including the archdiocese made in dealing “vig- release official figures about food, line to the equivalent of “do not let Capitol Jan. 30-31 in Tallahassee. motherhouse of missionary sisters, orously” with clergy accused of but surveys by Caritas show that 46 us enter into temptation.” This two-day event provides the an orphanage, and numerous par- abuse and preventing acts of abuse percent of Venezuelans eat less than opportunity to put into action the ishes and chapels. They met with through the Safe Environment pro- three meals a day, and 14.5 percent Vatican calls for faithful’s call to political responsi- the bishops, with scores of pastors, grams. of children under age 5 suffer from bility and strengthen the presence lay leaders and deacons serving acute malnutrition. Even Caritas peace, solution of Catholic values in the public the poor. Catholic Extension has workers are hit by the crisis. “Our VATICAN CITY | Following square. Through the event, partici- a long history of working with the WORLD people leave the country or have to days of violence and backlash af- pants advocate for laws that protect six dioceses of Puerto Rico, provid- struggle to get food for themselves,” ter U.S. President Donald Trump’s and defend human life and dignity, ing about $1 million annually to Pope: Be voice of Marquez told Catholic News Ser- decision to recognize Jerusalem as and give voice to some of the most support church construction and vice. the capital of Israel, the Vatican ap- vulnerable and marginalized pop- ministry. Since its first assistance to poor in Amazon pealed for “wisdom and prudence” ulations in Florida. the island in 1908, Catholic Exten- ROME | Pope Francis’ deci- Church spokesman to prevail. The Holy See “reiterates Catholic Days activities include: sion’s most notable contribution to sion to convene a Synod of Bishops its own conviction that only a nego- • A legislative briefing on policy Puerto Rico has been its support for dedicated to the Amazon is a sign dismisses EU threat tiated solution between Israelis and issues affecting human life and dig- the construction and repair of 1,400 of his desire for the choice to be a WARSAW, Poland | A Polish Palestinians can bring a stable and nity. church buildings. voice for the voiceless living in the Church spokesman dismissed a lasting peace and guarantee the • Pre-scheduled meetings with region, a Brazilian archbishop said. threat of European Union sanc- peaceful coexistence of two states lawmakers. Archdiocese The Amazon region remains un- tions if his country’s parliament within internationally recognized • A luncheon for Catholic Days known to many, including Latin goes ahead with Church-backed borders,” the Vatican said in a Dec. participants with Florida’s bishops appeals ad decision Americans, “because it is a region legislation to curb abortions of 10 statement. President Trump and states legislators . WASHINGTON | The Arch- where there are many poor peo- handicapped fetuses. “The Polish announced his decision Dec. 6 to • The opportunity to view the diocese of Washington appealed a ple” with no “great communica- bishops’ conference underlines move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem legislative process in action during federal judge’s denial of a request tion centers” to inform the world of that the right to life is fundamental from Tel Aviv, fulfilling a promise he committee meetings or floor ses- for an emergency injunction over their plight, Archbishop Sebastiao to every human being, so we should made during his presidential cam- sions. the Washington Metropolitan Area Ramos Krieger of Sao Salvador da all protect this right for defenseless paign. The announcement sparked • Celebration of the Red Mass Transit Authority’s advertising Bahia told Catholic News Service children,” said Father Pawel Rytel- anti-U.S. protests throughout Asia with Florida’s bishops, to pray for guidelines. The appeal was filed Dec. 13. “Someone must speak in Andrianik, conference spokes- and the Middle East, including a those working in the legislative, Dec. 10 with the U.S. Court of Ap- their name, because a poor person man. “Nobody can take this right four-day protest in the Palestinian judicial and executive branches of peals for the District of Columbia is unable defend himself. The pope away, nor can external or internal territories, Reuters reported. An government. Circuit. U.S. District Judge Amy wants the Church to be the voice of pressures change the scientifically Israeli security guard in Jerusa- Tours of the current and historic Berman Jackson Dec. 8 denied the the poor and help the Amazon find proved fact that human life begins lem, the report said, was in critical Capitol buildings will also be avail- archdiocese’s request that WMATA real solutions to its problems and at the moment of conception.” The condition after he was stabbed by able to participants, and a group be required to post an ad promoting challenges,” Archbishop Krieger European Parliament said it would a Palestinian man at the city’s bus photo will be taken of each dioce- its annual “Find the Perfect Gift” said. Pope Francis announced Oct. demand EU action if legislators station. Pope Francis expressed his san delegation and their respective initiative for the Advent season. 15 that a special gathering of the went ahead with new restrictions, “sorrow for the clashes in recent bishop. Dioceses may have trans- Transit authority officials had de- Synod of Bishops on the Amazon which were backed by 830,000 days” and called for world leaders to portation available for participants, nied the ad based on 2015 policies region will take place in Rome in Poles in a petition introduced Nov. renew their commitment for peace but space is limited. Contact your that ban ads “that promote or op- October 2019. The synod will seek 30 before the Sejm, the Polish par- in the Holy Land, the Vatican said. local diocesan respect life repre- pose any religion, religious practice to identify new paths of evangeli- liament’s lower house. In a Dec. 8 sentative for more details or visit or belief.” In a statement released zation, especially for indigenous interview with Catholic News Ser- New Vatican news http://www.flaccb.org/cdac. In Or- after the court filing, Ed McFad- people who are “often forgotten and vice, Father Rytel-Andrianik said lando, Deborah Stafford-Shearer, den, the archdiocese’s secretary for left without the prospect of a peace- it would be difficult to “judge in site ready to launch 407-658-1818, ext. 1084 or dshear- communications said the Church ful future, including because of the advance” the impact of EU threats, VATICAN CITY | Before Christ- [email protected] ; in Palm Beach, Anna officials were concerned that the crisis of the Amazon forest,” which which have been criticized as inter- mas, the Vatican plans to launch its Hernandez-Diaz, 561-775-9560 or transit authority was too willing plays a vital role in the environmen- ference by some politicians in the new communications website, al- [email protected], to promote “the secular half” of tal health of the entire planet, the traditionally Catholic country. though the Vatican Radio and Vati- or Donald Kazimir, 561-360-3330 Christmas gift giving, “but not the pope said. can Television Center sites will stay or [email protected]; in Venice, ‘religious half.’” “Indeed it seems accessible as archives. Msgr. Dario Jeanne Berdeaux, 941-441-1101 or clear that while Macy’s could ad- Venezuelans try VATICAN Vigano, prefect of the Secretariat [email protected] vertise its extended holiday hours, for Communication, announced the archdiocese could not advertise new food strategies Pope: God does Dec. 13 that the new site — vatican- its own extended holiday hours,” he BARQUISIMETO, Venezuela news.va — would be launched in NATION said. Such a distinction, he added, | Eleven-year-old Alejandro took not lead us into beta form “in the coming days.” The amounts to discrimination based two sausages from the refrigerator announcement came the day after Work to do and on earlier court decisions. in his home, thinking only of his temptation Msgr. Vigano presented the site to empty stomach. When his mother, VATICAN CITY | The Italian and Pope Francis and his international suffering in Archdiocese pays a cleaning woman, returned and English translations of the “Our Fa- Council of Cardinals and explained realized that Alejandro had eaten ther” can give believers the wrong to the council the progress made in Puerto Rico abuse victims what was meant to be dinner for her impression that God can and does unifying the various Vatican me- SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico | What NEW YORK | The Archdiocese of six children, she shouted at him and lead people into temptation, Pope dia. “The cornerstone of the sys- Chicago Cardinal Blase J. Cupich New York has resolved claims from beat him. Furious and ashamed, Francis said. The Italian bishops’ tem, fruit of a process of consolida- learned in visiting and talking to 189 victims of clergy sexual abuse Alejandro went into his room and television channel, TV2000, has tion on an economic and technical the people of Puerto Rico Dec. 3-6 in the amount of $40 million. The locked the door. Three hours later, been broadcasting a series of con- level, is represented by the Editorial is that “there’s a lot of work to do, a figure was contained in a report his mother found him dead. He versations between the pope and Multimedia Center,” which will be lot of people suffering” nearly three released Dec. 7 under the archdio- had hanged himself. Medical Mis- a Catholic prison chaplain looking a single structure responsible for months after Hurricane Maria dev- cese’s Independent Reconciliation sion Sister Maigualida Riera, 46, at the Lord’s Prayer line by line. The producing audio, text, video and astated the island. In a pastoral visit and Compensation Program. The is still shaken by the tragedy that episode broadcast Dec. 6 focused graphics in several languages and made on behalf of Pope Francis, program is part of the archdiocese’s occurred in Jesus of Nazareth Par- on the line, “Lead us not into temp- for use on a variety of platforms, in- the cardinal traveled throughout continuing effort to renew its con- ish in Barquisimeto, Venezuela’s tation.” Father Marco Pozza told the cluding the new website and social Puerto Rico, meeting with its bish- trition to those who suffered sexual fourth-largest city, where she lives. pope that friends have asked him, media. The Secretariat for Com- ops, priests and laypeople. The abuse as a minor by a priest or dea- Alejandro’s death is an extreme “Can God really lead us into temp- munication’s editorial board will pope had sent the cardinal to the con and to bring a sense of healing case of an evil haunting all Venezu- tation?” “This is not a good transla- determine how various issues are hurricane-battered island to make to victim-survivors. The report said elan families these days: hunger. tion,” the pope said. The standard presented. 13 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Cardinal O’Malley: The ‘hurt is still there’

MARK LABBE recognizing that it would open a vention of child abuse and to create some victims, Cardinal O’Malley Catholic News Service lot of old wounds and cause much safe environments and to be con- said, “All of us are more than one- pain and anger in those who have stantly monitoring how we’re doing dimension. To be realistic, we have BRAINTREE, Mass. | Journal- suffered so much already, and we following our policies, our com- to recognize there was more to this ists crowded into a room in the share in their suffering,” he contin- mitment to the whole community man than his mistakes.” Archdiocese of Boston’s Braintree ued. to take this very seriously and do “We tried to craft a statement headquarters Dec. 20 as Cardinal “As the church must always do, whatever we can to guarantee safe that would be fair and, at the same Sean P. O’Malley answered ques- we seek forgiveness for the sins of environments for our children.” time, sensitive to the particular suf- tions following the death of Cardi- the past and for all the things that Asked to comment on Cardinal fering of people in the archdiocese,” nal Bernard F. Law, whose death were done or not done that have Law’s appointment as archpriest he said. was officially announced by the contributed to the suffering of so of the Basilica of Santa Maria Mag- In response to a question on Vatican earlier that day. many,” he said. giore following his resignation in whether he can forgive Cardinal The former archbishop of Bos- The archdiocese has a contin- Boston, a move that many victims Law, Cardinal O’Malley said that ton, Cardinal Law resigned in 2002 ued commitment to “provide for saw as almost a reward, Cardinal “forgiveness is what Christianity is amid allegations of mishandling the assistance and support for vic- O’Malley said he doesn’t believe all about, and that doesn’t make it cases of sexual abuse of minors by tim survivors and their families, that would happen today. easy.” priests in the archdiocese. In 2004, and to strive to maintain safe en- “I think there’s been enough “Christmas is about healing, re- the cardinal was named archpriest vironments in all of our churches, growth and consciousness of this lationships and forgiveness, and a of a basilica in Rome, where he died schools, institutions, and agencies,” problem in the Holy See that that big part of healing is being able to Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley at age 86. said Cardinal O’Malley, who suc- would not happen,” he said. come to grips with our own diffi- “This is a very difficult day for ceeded the late cardinal as Boston’s Responding to a journalist’s culty in forgiveness,” he said. that everyone goes to heaven.” survivors and all of us in the Arch- archbishop. question on a statement issued Asked if he believes Cardinal “This is what the mission of the diocese of Boston and for me,” said For victims, the “hurt is still earlier that day in which Cardi- Law’s soul will be welcomed into church is, to work so that everyone Cardinal O’Malley at the news con- there, the healing is still necessary,” nal O’Malley touched briefly on heaven, Cardinal O’Malley said he will go to heaven, but I am not here ference. said Cardinal O’Malley. “We must the positive aspects of Cardinal doesn’t know if anyone can answer to sit in judgment of anyone,” he “We have anticipated this day, all be vigilant, particularly for pre- Law’s legacy, which has angered that question, but added, “I hope said. n After terrorism attempt, president calls for end to immigration programs RHINA GUIDOS preferences to relatives of U.S. citi- “Congress must get involved im- Catholic News Service zens or residents. mediately,” Trump said. Two immigrant men who came Authorities say Akayed Ullah, WASHINGTON | While many legally into the U.S. through those the suspect in the Dec. 11 subway Catholics took to social media ask- programs have recently been ac- attack attempt, entered the U.S. in ing for the intercession of Our Lady cused of domestic terrorism. 2011 through a family-based visa of Guadalupe in the life of migrants “There have now been two ter- program that gives preference to who have come to the U.S. seek- rorist attacks in New York City car- relatives of U.S. citizens and to ing a better life, President Donald ried out by foreign nationals here some relatives of lawful permanent Trump called, on Dec. 12, her feast on green cards,” Trump said, a day residents. day, for an end to two immigration after authorities arrested an im- The second case Trump refer- programs.“We’re going to end both migrant from Bangladesh in New enced involves Sayfullo Saipov, a of them … we’re going to end them York, who police say strapped a 29-year-old who came to the U.S. fast,” Trump said as he spoke of pipe bomb to his body and tried to in 2010 from Uzbekistan using a di- ending the diversity visa program, detonate it in a subway station at the versity visa, and who is now facing Police and fire crews block off the streets near the New York Port popularly known as the visa lottery, height of the morning rush hour in almost two dozen federal counts Authority in New York City Dec. 11. (EDWARD TOBIN, REUTERS | CNS) and also a program that grants visa New York. after eight people died and dozens were injured in late October after Lawyers Association and other or- said “no.” But Cissna said the coun- he allegedly drove a pickup truck ganizations call a “pejorative term” try needs to be more selective of im- down a bicycle path, running them used to describe the process of fam- migrants allowed to come into the Leav e your legacy over near the World Trade Center in ily members sponsoring a relative U.S. because otherwise “bad guys with a personalized paver! New York. from their country of origin to the can come in.” Though Trump has made de- country where the family member Catholic organizations used the mands to stop the two programs resides. feast day as a “day of solidarity” with Ave Maria Catholic Church in the Diocese before, Congress has not acted on When asked during a Dec. 12 migrants, many of them calling for of Venice, FL offers you a unique opportunity legislation to end them. press briefing whether there was their welcome and for laws to help to share the important moments of your life 11569-1222 Some have accused Trump of any data to support the claim that them. with a paver on the beautiful parish grounds. exploiting the attacks to drive up immigrants who entered the coun- The U.S. Conference of Catholic fears among the U.S. population try via the visa lottery were more Bishops used the feast day to ask for Order your paver today! against immigrants as he warns of susceptible to “radicalization,” prayers for migrants and for action, 239-261-5555 ext. 330 or [email protected] the dangers of “chain migration,” Francis Cissna, director of U.S. Citi- urging others to “voice your support which the American Immigration zenship and Immigration Services, for young people in our communi- ties who are facing an uncertain fu- ture because of the recent end (to) the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA),” and contacting Congress, urging action to protect them. • Wrongful Death & Serious Injury • Elder Abuse & Neglect The USCCB asked others share • Auto Crashes • Medical Malpractice Our Lady of Guadalupe’s “message • Abuse & Neglect of Physically & Developmentally Challenged of Christ’s love for migrants and vulnerable people.” The Ignatian Home visit if needed Solidarity Network marked the day Abogados que hablan español Catholic Lawyer • Boston College Grad Licensed in seven states Former Jesuit Volunteer Corp Member by launching its “campaign for hos- (FL, GA, VA, MD, DC, PA and NY) Parishioner – St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church 11572-1222 pitality,” inviting Catholics to “pro- 10610-1222 mote a culture of hospitality toward 407-839-0866 • www.maherlawfirm.com those who migrate.” n Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS 14 Fundraising starts to aid victims of Southern California fires CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE FRIARS IN HISTORIC CALIFORNIA MISSION LOS ANGELES | Six major BRIEFLY EVACUATE AFTER FIRE FEARS wind-fueled wildfires in Southern California have destroyed more WASHINGTON | Franciscan friars “We, of course, took care of the than 1,000 structures and forced from a historic mission were among the Eucharist,” before leaving the mission, he the evacuation of 200,000 resi- thousands of residents who evacuated, said. “The guys consumed the Eucharist dents. seeking shelter during a spate of wildfires just to make sure.” After he surveyed the damage in that threatened California in December. At the shelter, some of the friars spoke Ventura County, north of Los An- A group of 27 friars from Mission San with the area’s residents, including some geles, where the worst of the fires Luis Rey in Oceanside, Calif., voluntarily of the hundreds who’d faced mandatory has raged, California Gov. Jerry evacuated late Dec. 7 as winds kicked up evacuation. “You just listen,” said Brother Burned cars are seen on a piece of property Dec. 5 during a wildfire Brown told reporters that the fires during a wildfire in their area that burned Kiesler, about the time the friars spent near Santa Paula, Calif. Pushed by powerful Santa Ana winds, the fire “may be the new normal.” He de- through 4,000 acres, destroying 157 struc- talking to the displaced. “Mostly, people, spread with explosive speed to 31,000 acres in Southern California’s clared a state of emergency for the tures and damaging 64 others, according they didn’t know whether their house or Ventura County, forcing thousands to evacuate in the dark. (DAVID area Dec. 6. to news reports. trailer park was still standing.” MCNEW, REUTERS | CNS) U.S. President Donald Trump de- No part of the 220-year-old mission, The friars fared better than others and clared a state of emergency for Cali- part of the Franciscan Province of St. were able to return home the next day. state in October, killing 31, scorch- and everyone helping to subdue fornia Dec. 8. As of Dec. 12, officials Barbara, was damaged, said Brother “Thanks be to God, that evening, the ing more than 128,000 acres and the flames,” he tweeted. About had reported only one fatality. John Kiesler during a Dec. 12 phone winds died down and (firefighters) were causing an estimated $3 billion-$6 1,000 firefighters were working to The Archdiocese of Los Angeles interview with Catholic News Service. The able to at least stop its advance. Friday billion in damage. contain the wind-driven flames. has started a fund for victims of the mission, founded in 1798 and a National morning, we came home,” he said. The Southern California series Called the Thomas fire, it is wildfires that have raced through Historic Landmark, has a theology school, Though no fatalities were reported of wildfires had passed the 150,000- the biggest of the wildfires being the archdiocese and spread to lo- a cemetery, a parish that serves 5,000 from the fire, known as the Lilac fire acre mark within four days of their stoked by dry conditions and high cations in the nearby Orange and families, as well as a retreat center, Brother and centered in nearby Bonsall, the Los starting Dec. 4. As of the morning of winds. Among the evacuees in Kiesler said. San Diego dioceses. Angeles Times reported Dec. 9 that 46 Dec. 8 local time, no fatalities had Ventura County were students and “Friends, as the wildfires contin- “We smelled the smoke, but we never horses died and some remain missing in been reported despite the density faculty at Thomas Aquinas College ue, the needs of our neighbors con- really saw flames,” he said. “It (the fire) a nearby thoroughbred training facility. As of population in the region. Four in Santa Paula. tinue to increase,” said Archbishop was only a couple of miles away. The of Dec. 13, authorities say it is 95 percent counties have already declared a In a message posted on its web- real danger was we’re located maybe contained. Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles on the a mile and half from San Luis Rey River, state of emergency. site and on Twitter, the Catholic archdiocesan webpage that hosts Considering what happened to other Archbishop Gomez on Dec. 5 college expressed “deep gratitude which has a little bit of water in it but is Californians, including those involved in the fundraising campaign, https:// surrounded by old trees. The worry is the called for prayers for the well-being for the prayers of its many friends tinyurl.com/yaa4qlu2. the bigger cluster of fires near Los Angeles of families, firefighters and rescue and for the heroic firefighters who flames were going to come straight up to the north, the smell of smoke the friars “In this season of giving, let us that river.” faced when they arrived home was of no workers “facing devastating fires battled all of Monday night (Dec. 4) open our heart to our brothers and With 27 friars to evacuate, including consequence, Brother Kiesler said. and high winds” in the wildfires. to protect the Santa Paula campus.” sisters in need,” he added. “Let us about six elders, and 40-mph wind gusts, “May God keep them all safe The college canceled classes for keep praying for an end to the fires “You could smell the smoke, but what and put an end to these fires,” the the rest of the week as roads had the community decided it was best to seek the heck, nobody was hurt,” he said. “We and let us keep praying for the safe- archbishop said in a message sent been closed and power was out in shelter at nearby Oceanside High School were blessed.” — Rhina Guidos , Catho- ty of our police, fire and emergency and “just camped out all night,” said lic News Service via social media channels and some communities. “The college workers — and all those who are in Brother Kiesler. posted on the archdiocesan news is hopeful that it will reopen in harm’s way.” site, angelusnews.com. time for final exams next week,” In a Dec. 8 statement from Wash- On Twitter, Los Angeles Auxil- the college said in a Dec. 5 state- ington, Cardinal Daniel N. DiNar- ers and firefighters who are putting Barbara counties in the arch- iary Bishop Robert E. Barron said ment. Students from California do, president of the U.S. Conference their lives at risk.” diocese. This is the second set of the fires in Ventura County, which who had transportation were con- of Catholic Bishops, asked prayers The wildfires, which have stub- wildfires to have hit California this is in his pastoral region, had alone sidering returning home for the for all those in danger, “both those bornly resisted most efforts to be fall. Wildfires burned thousands forced 30,000 people to evacu- time being; others planned to re- whose homes are in the fire’s path reined in by firefighters, have hit of acres in the Sonoma and Napa ate. “Join me in praying for all the main at the homes of local friends and those courageous first respond- Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa areas in the northern part of the evacuees, firefighters, officials, and faculty. n ‘Enough with the deaths’: Mexican clergy reiterate Chiapas is in crisis

DAVID AGREN the municipality where the deaths “An armed group acting with im- Catholic News Service where the displacements occurred. punity has caused a state of siege in “They are children of God. They are the municipality of Chalchihuitan, MEXICO CITY | Clergy in south- humans. They have a right to live.” and we do not understand why the ern Chiapas reiterated warnings of The conflict in Chiapas stems state and federal authorities have an escalating humanitarian crisis from a 1973 decision by Mexico’s allowed it,” the statement said. as a land dispute has driven some Agrarian Reform Secretariat, when The diocesan statement called 5,000 indigenous Tzotzil from their it established the boundaries be- for all levels of government to find communities and into the moun- tween the Chiapas municipalities “an integral solution, given that tains to survive in cold and squalid of Chenalho and Chalchihuitan. on this occasion the conflict has conditions. Displeasure with the decision in been aggravated more than on any At least nine people among the Chenalho has caused conflict for other occasion in memory by the displaced population have died. Fa- decades. The most recent dispute increasing participation of armed ther Marcelo Perez, a priest attend- escalated in November, when vil- Indigenous woman pass riot police standing guard on the city square groups.” ing to the displaced Tzotzil, said the lagers from Chalchihuitan said they of San Juan Chamula, Mexico. (RENE ARAUXO, EPA | CNS) On Dec. 13, an agrarian tribu- dead include a newborn baby, two were run off their land at gunpoint. nal ruled on the dispute over 740 children age 2 or younger and sev- Caritas in the Diocese of San with each day due to shortages … the municipality of Chalchihuitan,” acres of land, but this time in favor eral seniors over age 70. Cristobal de Las Casas has called provoked by the blockades of the said a Dec. 12 statement signed by of the Chenalho claimants; it said “What Christmas will those from for supplies of food, medicine and three entrances to the municipal- retired Bishop Felipe Arizmendi the 1973 decision benefiting Chal- Chalchihuitan experience if they shelter, but its efforts have been ity of Chalchihuitan and adding Esquivel of San Cristobal de Las Ca- chihuitan was made in error. The are dying?” Perez said in a Dec. hampered by roadblocks set up by to the effects of rain, the cold and sas, and Dominican Father Gonza- federal and state governments sub- 14 WhatsApp message. “Enough armed groups in Chenalho. displacement conditions of numer- lo Ituarte Verduzco, diocesan vicar sequently offered compensation to with the deaths in Chalchihuitan,” “The humanitarian crisis grows ous families, the vast majority from for justice and peace. 300 homeowners. n 15 VATICAN NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 The weary world rejoices: Nativity scenes bring joy to hardened hearts CINDY WOODEN “brings the manger scene into our to experience again the power and present world reality to remind us awe of God taking human flesh, CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE that this is a God who continues becoming one of them and then to step into our world. It isn’t just offering his life for them. VATICAN CITY | The Nativity something that happened 2,000 “The whole idea of the crèche scene in St. Peter’s Square is not years ago.” speaks to so many feelings and Life-size statues depict the corporal work of mercy of visiting the getting rave reviews: The backdrop According to legend, it was St. emotions we have,” Father Puodzi- sick in the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Dec. 14. does not look like a stable and the Francis of Assisi, the founder of unas said. “The child, manger, ani- (JUNNO AROCHO ESTEVES | CNS) characters in need — hungry, na- Father Puodziunas’ order, who mals, night, outdoors, emptiness” ked, dead, imprisoned — don’t ex- invented the Nativity scene in — they all communicate feelings of humanity’s poverty, not in the things are created for the purpose actly evoke a silent night when all 1223 by bringing straw, an ox and that endure through time and can sense of things that people do not of praising God.” was cozy, calm and bright. an ass to the side of a hill where be recreated anywhere. have, but in the sense that there is a But, he said, “we are not a ‘Hall- Franciscan Father John Puodzi- Christmas Mass was about to be St. Francis, he said, was focused void in everyone that only God can mark Christmas’ people.” Life gets unas said he didn’t like it at first. celebrated. on “the crèche and the cross. The fill, he said. “Love, peace, mercy, messy, but in the Gospel Jesus talks In addition to Mary and Joseph Father Puodziunas conceded wood of the manger becomes the freedom, joy — these are the real about the truth being revealed to — baby Jesus will appear only on Nativity scenes may have been wood of the cross. This Christ that poverties of the world” and the the smallest children. Christmas — the scene includes around before St. Francis brought steps into a messy world — wheth- gifts that the Christ Child brings. As they “grow up,” Father figures of people who illustrate one to life in Greccio, Italy, but the er at the time of Christ, the time of St. Francis believed that “we’re Puodziunas said, many people the ongoing need for the corporal Franciscan is certain the friars St. Francis or our own time — is not all that bad,” but that God steps build walls and other obstacles to works of mercy, including feeding were responsible for spreading the the same Christ that takes us to the into the world to offer more, he experiencing God’s love for them the hungry, clothing the naked, tradition and bringing it into peo- cross and is the source of our salva- said. and to seeing how God is stepping burying the dead, caring for the ple’s homes. tion.” “As pretty as our manger sets into their lives. sick and visiting those in prison. “Why did St. Francis do the crib While there probably was a cat- are,” Father Puodziunas said, “the When he was in parish ministry, As Father Puodziunas, a friar scene on the side of the mountain? echetical element to St. Francis’ reality is that that first manger he said, he would bring the little from Philadelphia who is now gen- Because the people were not able crèche, Father Puodziunas be- wasn’t a pretty sight and that the children up to the Nativity scene eral treasurer of the Order of Friars to receive the child into their lives,” lieves it was more spiritual and ex- world that this child steps into isn’t and tell them there was some- Minor, stood in St. Peter’s Square, he said. Back then, like today, the periential than education. “It was always pretty. And yet, this child thing they must tell their parents he said he realized “this really cap- obstacles may have been “busy- about making the story of Christ chooses to step into this world.” and older siblings “because they tures what I believe the Nativity ness or anger or war or the past or come alive in their lives. … This The inclusion of animals in a forget,” and that is: “Jesus is born.” set is about. It’s about ‘Where am concerns.” child steps into the world we have Nativity scene not only helps il- And after Mass, he would tell them, I today? Where is the world today? But by bringing the people of today, into our own lives, not as a lustrate Jesus’ birth in a stable, “You need to bring them up to the Where is the Church today?’” Greccio to the manger, he said, St. child, but as a savior.” he said. “Clearly, the Incarnation manger scene.” n The Vatican display, he said, Francis hoped they would be able The scene also is a reminder touches all of creation” and “all Pope: Sunday has lost its sense Vatican releases new instruction on as day of rest, renewal in Christ authenticating, protecting relics CAROL GLATZ chal Inquiries in the Causes tained permission from the CAROL GLATZ just to live a moral life, loving others. Sunday Catholic News Service of Saints,” released in 2007. saints’ congregation, it said. Catholic News Service Mass is not simply an obligation, he said. “We The new instruction The sale or trade of relics Christians need to take part in Sunday Mass VATICAN CITY | Only outlined the specific proce- remains “absolutely pro- VATICAN CITY | Just like a plant needs because only with the grace of Jesus, with his relics that have been certi- dures and personnel neces- hibited” as well as exposing sun and nourishment to survive, every Chris- presence alive in us and among us, can we put fied as authentic can be ex- sary for the canonical rec- them in “profane” or unau- tian needs the light of Sunday and the sus- into practice his commandment and, in this posed for veneration by the ognition of the authenticity thorized locations, it said. tenance of the Eucharist to truly live, Pope way, be his credible witnesses.” faithful, said a new Vatican of the relics or remains of a Some of the rules also in- Francis said. “Just like a plant needs the sun and nour- instruction. saint or anyone on the path clude: “How can we carry out the Gospel without ishment to live, every Christian needs the Published Dec. 16 in Ital- to sainthood. It also speci- • Rigorously avoiding any drawing the energy needed to do it, one Sun- Sunday Eucharist to truly live,” he said in ian by the Congregation for fied that any action taken sign of veneration for the re- day after another, from the limitless source summarized remarks to Arabic speakers. Saints’ Causes, the instruc- regarding the relics or re- mains of a servant of God or of the Eucharist,” he said Dec. 13 during his “What kind of Sunday is it for a Christian tion clarifies and details the mains must also conform venerable before beatifica- weekly general audience. if an encounter with the Lord is missing?” he canonical procedures to be with local government laws tion. “We don’t go to Mass to give something to asked in his main talk. followed by local bishops and have the consent of the • Obtaining written con- God, but to receive from him that which we Unfortunately, in many secularized coun- in an effort to verify the au- saints’ congregation and the sent from the congregation truly need,” the pope said. Sunday Mass is the tries, the Christian meaning of the day has thenticity of relics and the person recognized as the and every bishop or propri- time and place Christians receive the grace been lost and is no longer “illuminated by the mortal remains of saints deceased’s “heir.” etor that would be involved and strength to remain faithful to his word, Eucharist” or lived as a joyous feast in com- and blesseds, as well as bet- In the case of an upcom- in the moving of, in transfer- follow his commandment to love others and munion with other parishioners and in soli- ter guarantee a relic’s pres- ing canonization or beati- ring the ownership of, or in be credible witnesses in the world. darity with others, he said. Also often missing ervation, approve and track fication, some small pieces the pilgrimage of any relics The pope continued his series of audience is the importance of Sunday as a day of rest, its movements, and promote or fragments already sepa- and mortal remains of the talks on the Mass in the Vatican’s Paul VI hall, which is a sign of the dignity of living as chil- its veneration. rated from the body can be saints and blesseds. which was decorated with a large Christmas dren of God, not slaves, he said. The instruction replaces removed and later given to • Getting the consent of tree and a life-sized Nativity scene. A num- “Without Christ, we are condemned to be the appendix, “Canonical the postulator or vice pos- the saints’ congregation, ber of people in the audience hall handed the dominated by the fatigue of daily life with Recognition of the Mortal tulator for placement in a the relevant patriarch and pope — who turned 81 Dec. 17 — Christmas all its worries and the fear of tomorrow. The Remains of the Servant of properly sealed reliquary, his permanent synod for cards, notes and a chocolate cake. Sunday encounter with the Lord gives us the God,” included with “Sanc- the instruction said. the alienation or transfer of In his catechesis, the pope responded to strength to live today with confidence and torum Mater,” the congrega- But “the dismemberment ownership of relics and pre- the question of why it is so important to go courage and to move forward with hope,” he tion’s “Instruction for Con- of the body is not allowed” cious icons of the Eastern to Mass on Sundays and why it is not enough said. n ducting Diocesan or Epar- unless the bishop has ob- churches. n Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic VATICAN NEWS 16 Pope: Feast shows Mary’s closeness to those on margins

JUNNO AROCHO ESTEVES can bishops’ council document he dream is not nor will be sterile or Catholic News Service helped write. to stigmatize or fill his children Processing into the basilica with shame, but rather bring forth VATICAN CITY | The appear- dressed in white, the symbol of pu- through and from them a song of ance of Our Lady of Guadalupe, rity, Pope Francis made his way to blessing,” he said. which mirrored that of the indig- a replica of St. Juan Diego’s tilma, This fruitfulness can also be seen enous people of the time, is a sign of which bears the image of Mary, who in St. Juan Diego, who was chosen Mary’s closeness to those who are appeared to the indigenous saint in by Mary to bear on his “tilma the marginalized, Pope Francis said. 1531. The pope stood before the im- image of the Virgin.” Like St. Juan Diego, who felt of age, bowing reverently and censing Mary, shown “with dark-skin no importance at being chosen by it three times. and mestizo appearance,” reflected Mary because of his indigenous In his homily, Pope Francis re- a “mother capable of taking on the heritage, marginalized people in flected on the reading from St. traits of her children to make them today’s world are often made to feel Luke’s Gospel, in which the angel feel a part of her blessing,” the pope worthless by conditions imposed appears to Mary, informing her that said. upon them, the pope said in his she is with child. “And behold, Eliz- Our Lady of Guadalupe, he add- homily during a Mass in St. Peter’s abeth, your relative, has also con- ed, remains a symbol of the wealth Basilica Dec. 12, the feast of Our ceived a son in her old age, and this and cultural diversity of Latin Lady of Guadalupe. is the sixth month for her who was America and the Caribbean that “Among them are the indigenous called barren; for nothing will be must not only be cultivated, but also and Afro-American communi- impossible for God,” the angel said. defended from every attempt to im- ties, who often are not treated with Elizabeth’s sterility, the pope pose a way of thinking that “makes dignity and equality of conditions; said, was considered at the time “a everything we inherited from our many women who are excluded be- divine punishment for her or her elders invalid or sterile.” cause of their sex, race, or socioeco- husband’s sin” and a sign of shame “In short, our fruitfulness re- nomic situation; young people who and guilt “for a sin she did not com- quires us to defend our people from receive a poor education and have mit … (she was) made to feel small an ideological colonization that no opportunities to advance in their for being unable to fulfill what was cancels out the richest thing about studies or to enter into the labor expected of her.” them, whether they be indigenous, market so as to move ahead and es- However, in Elizabeth — who Afro-American, mestizo, farmer, or tablish a family; many poor people, was the first to recognize the child suburban,” the pope said. unemployed, migrants, displaced, in Mary’s womb — Christians can It is “the appearance of a person landless peasants, who seek to sur- find a woman who is “fruitful and who is poor, unemployed, of a boy vive on the informal market; boys amazed” upon experiencing in her or girl, old or young, so that no one and girls subjected to child prosti- life “the fulfillment of a promise may feel sterile and infertile, so that Pope Francis swings a censer in front of an image of Our Lady of tution, often linked to sex tourism,” made by God.” no one feels ashamed or worthless,” Guadalupe as he celebrates Mass Dec. 12 marking her feast day in he said, quoting a 2007 Latin Ameri- “In her, we understand that God’s the pope said. n St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. (MAX ROSSI, REUTERS | CNS)

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ORLANDO CAMPUS PALM BEACH CAMPUS 460 East Altamonte Drive (Third Floor) VISIT US ONLINE AT 5150 Linton Blvd. Suite 340 Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 www.cambridgehealth.edu Delray Beach, FL 33484 407-265-8383 561-381-4990 17 SUNDAY WORD and SCRIPTURE Florida Catholic Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 SCRIPTURE How can this be? Family in the flesh readings Sunday, Dec. 24, 2017 shaking of heads, but the ques- Sunday, Dec. 31 Paul reminds the Colossians Fourth Sunday of Advent tion, “How can this be?” was as Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and that a family, striving to form Friday, Dec. 22 Wednesday, Jan. 3 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Ps 89:2-5, good a place as any to begin. Joseph one body and one spirit, must 1 Sm 1:24-28; (Ps) 1 1 Jn 2:29–3:6; Ps 98:1- 27, 29; Rom 16:25-27; Just as Mary was astounded Sir 3:2-6, 12-14; Ps 128:1-5; Col 3:12- rely upon healthy doses of for- Sm 2:1, 4-7, 8abcd; 3,6; Jn 1:29-34 Lk 1:26-38 that such words should be spo- 21; Lk 2:22-40 giveness, patience and a whole Lk1:46-56 ken to her, so too might we be lot of bearing with one another. Thursday, Jan. 4 Even though this is one of astonished if our Gospel read- Only several days out from Luke’s festive portrait of fam- Saturday Dec. 23 St. Elizabeth Ann those troublesome years, where ing began this way: “The angel Christmas, and I begin to won- ily consecration is upended Mal 3:1-4, 23-24; Ps Seton, religious we realistically celebrate the Gabriel was sent from God to der whether the Church has with the bone-rattling words of 25:4bc-5ab, 8-10, 14; 1 Jn 3:7-10; Ps 98:1, 7-9; Fourth “week” of Advent for less a diocese in Central Florida, placed this feast on our radar Simeon to Mary: “This child is Lk 1:57-66 Jn 1:35-42 than 24 hours (must get those named Orlando, celebrating as a kind of humorous poke in destined for the rise and fall of early-bird Christmas Eve Mass- its 50th anniversary. Rejoice, O the ribs, or perhaps an act of many; and you yourself a sword Sunday, Dec. 24 Friday, Jan. 5 es going on time), let us still be highly favored people of penance. After all, we’ve will pierce.” challenged by the word of God God. The Lord is with most likely been steeped Yes, to be family, in its many Fourth Sunday of St. John Neumann, Advent given to us as we teeter on the you. You shall bear the in all manner of “fam- shapes and forms, requires a bishop edge of Christmas. Son of God!” ily” arrangements as the daily struggle with forbear- 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 1 Jn 3:11-21; Ps 100:1-5; Every so often we receive Mary’s mission is days of this Christmas ance, settling with far less than 16; Ps 89:2-5, 27, 29; Jn 1:43-51 unbelievable news. The “Pub- the mission of every season have unfolded perfection or even momentary Rom 16:25-27; Lk 1:26-38 lisher’s Clearing House Prize Christian and every — some of this “fam- satisfaction, patient peace, and Saturday, Jan. 6 Patrol” pulls up in the driveway community of faith — ily” time festive, some wounded hearts that will more Monday, Dec. 25 1 Jn 5:5-13; Ps 147:12- and surprises you while you’re to give life and to bring of it annoying, some of than occasionally bleed be- 15, 19-20; Mk 1:7-11 or in your pajamas. Imagine the forth the Son of God, it confounding, some cause of love. Nativity of the Lord Lk 3: 23-38 (Christmas) look on the face of a husband the presence of the Fa- SUNDAY of it like a skipping CD, And this is why, I believe, we and wife when it’s announced ther’s very own life, into WORD some of it “I’m glad that’s are given this feast of the holy Is 52:7-10; Ps 98:1-6; Sunday, Jan. 7 Heb 1:1-6; Jn 1:1-18 they’ll be parents for the first the cracks and crevices over for another year,” family: to remind us that fam- Epiphany of the Lord time — of twins. How about of our world, all those Father and most of this family- ily is indeed flesh, and we are Tuesday, Dec. 26 Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:2, 7-8, studying a whole 10 minutes places where each of us Ben making, I suspect, far all families striving for holiness. 10-13; Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6; for a major exam and the test live and move and have Berinti from what we have been Family is indeed flesh. It can be St. Stephen, first Mt 2:1-12 comes back with an A-plus. our being. schooled to call “holy.” beautiful and banal; it can be martyr Then there are times when Mary, as terrified and Does the Church give tender and tedious. Family can Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59; Ps Monday, Jan. 8 life seems to be breezing along overwhelmed as she must have us this “holy family” of Jesus, be gentle and violent; it can be 31:3cd-4, 6, 8ab, 16bc- Baptism of the Lord and suddenly someone is struck been at the news brought by Mary and Joseph as a goal, a nurturing and disruptive. Fam- 17; Mt 10:17-22 with a debilitating disease, or Gabriel, somehow was able to dream, a guilt trip, or simply as ily can be all of these and is all Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1a, one’s personal fortunes seem to allow space for God, to become a Hallmark-card tableau amidst of these. And yet, family can Wednesday, Dec. 27 2, 3ac-4, 3b, 9-10; change overnight, or the boss a suitable dwelling place for the the real struggle of being “fam- still give birth to the holiness of Mk 1:7-11 calls you in for the pink slip Lord. And once Mary allowed ily” in the 21st century? God’s presence in our midst. St. John, apostle and evangelist right after nailing your near- God that space within her, It would seem from the tone May these remaining days Tuesday, Jan. 9 1 Jn 1:1-4; Ps 97:1-2, perfect performance review. God began great things in and of the Scriptures for this feast of Christmas find us making a 1 Sm 1:9-20; (Ps) 1 Sm 5-6, 11-12; Jn 20:1a, 2-8 Whether it is something joy- through her. that there’s more than magical deeper commitment to live as 2:1, 4-8; Mk 1:21-28 ful or sad, trivial or touching We too are highly favored thinking here about “family” families seeking holiness. May Thursday, Dec. 28 the depths of our spirit, our first and blessed by God. If we look and “holiness.” In fact, the talk we reach beyond the romantic Wednesday, Jan. 10 Holy Innocents, reaction, in each of these cases, closely enough at our lives, of family this Sunday is not fod- comfort and calm of the Christ- 1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20; Ps martyrs most likely is: How can this be? we are a graced and gift-filled der for banners and slogans and mas crèche and into the real 40:2-5, 7-10; Gabriel’s astonishing greet- people. The voice of Gabriel campaigns, but rather about world of our families: families in 1 Jn 1:5–2:2; Ps 124:2-5, Mk 1:29-39 ing to the young Jewish girl is calling out to us this day, family “in the flesh” — the only the flesh — the only kind there 7b-8; Mt 2:13-18 Mary must have taken more to and his words can spark new kind there really is. really ever will be. n Thursday, Jan. 11 explain than the 18 lines Luke and wonderful things in and Sirach knows that honor- Friday, Dec. 29 gives us in this passage. I’m sure through us. ing father and mother, in good Father Berinti, Missionaries 1 Sm 4:1-11; Ps 44:10- 1 Jn 2:3-11; Ps 96:1-3, 11, 14-15, 24-25; it wasn’t quite that neatly pack- Still a little doubtful? Repeat- times and in bad, can take its of the Most Precious Blood, 5b-6; Lk 2:22-35 aged. There would have been ing to yourself, “How can this toll on children, but also that is pastor of Immaculate Con- Mk 1:40-45 a lot of questions asked and be?” The good news is: Nothing such kindness will not be for- ception Parish in Melbourne Saturday, Dec. 30 Friday, Jan. 12 answered, a lot of crying and will be impossible with God. n gotten. Beach. 1 Jn 2:12-17; Ps 96:7-10; 1 Sm 8:4-7, 10-22a; Ps Lk 2:36-40 89:16-19; Mk 2:1-12

Sunday, Dec. 31 Saturday, Jan. 13 It really is better to give than to receive Holy Family of Jesus, 1 Sm 9:1-4, 17-19; Mary and Joseph 10:1a; Ps 21:2-7; Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018 To a bedroom, to like a gift card.” incense recognized that Jesus Sir 3:2-6, 12-14; Ps Mk 2:13-17 Epiphany of the Lord the garage and to the What might you give to God? was fully divine. 128:1-5; Col 3:12-21; Is 60:1-6; Ps 72:2, 7-8, 10-13; computer printer. Each The Three Wise Men brought The third gift the Magi Lk 2:22-40 Sunday, Jan. 14 Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6; Mt 2:1-12 place he found a pack- three gifts to the infant Jesus. The brought was myrrh. Myrrh was 1 Sm 3:3b-10, 19; Ps Monday, Jan. 1 age with a Nintendo second gift the Magi brought was a spice used to embalm the dead. 40:2, 4, 7-10; 1 Cor One Christmas I gave gift card and another frankincense. (We’ll get to the Like bringing formaldehyde to Blessed Virgin Mary, 6:13c-15a, 17-20; my godson Luke an en- clue. As much as the first gift last.) a baby shower, it meant that the the Mother of God Jn 1:35-42 velope. The envelope Nintendo gift cards, Getting ready for a New Year’s birth of Jesus was not about pre- Nm 6:22-27; Ps 67:2-3, had the first clue. “Not Luke enjoyed the hunt. Eve party, a woman puts on high cious moments and baby books. 5-6, 8.; Gal 4:4-7; in the toilet, not in the And I enjoyed it even heels, sequined dress and per- The tree that saves the world Lk 2:16-21 tank, downstairs is your SUNDAY more. There really is fume. The man shaves, puts on is not the Christmas tree. The WORD gift under the (fill in the more joy in giving than a coat and tie, and slaps on some tree that saves us is the tree of life Tuesday, Jan. 2 blank).” in receiving. cologne. You like to smell good upon which hung the Savior of Luke ran and found Father But what do you get for special occasions. the world. The immortal God be- Sts. Basil the Great David and Gregory Nazian- a wrapped box under the person who has In the same way, frankincense came mortal that we might share zen, bishops and doc- the bathroom sink (the Scotchie everything? I’m talk- smells special. During Mass, eternal life. The gift of myrrh rec- tors of the Church rhyme was close enough). ing about Jesus. What we cense the manger scene, the ognized that Jesus was fully hu- Back at the Christmas could you possibly Book of the Gospels, the bread man. 1 Jn 2:22-28; Ps 98:1-4; Jn 1:19-28 tree, he opened the box to find a give to the Creator of the cosmos? and wine, and you. We use in- Last but not least, the first gift. Nintendo gift card and the next One comedian said, “Gift cards. cense to show things are holy and clue. Nothing says, ‘You figure it out,’ belong to God. The gift of frank- PLEASE SEE SUNDAY, 18 Dec. 22, 2017-Jan. 11, 2018 Florida Catholic CLASSIFIEDS 18

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