BRINGING THE GOOD NEWS TO THE DIOCESE OF FORT WORTH

Blessed Father Rother and his impact on North Texans No

VOL. 33 NO. 6 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2017 33 NO. 6 NOVEMBER VOL. Greater Love Our Shepherd Speaks Bishop Michael Olson on the lifelong pursuit of beauty, goodness, and truth. 4 5

Around the Diocese Lovers of the Holy Cross welcomed to Arlington; candidates instituted as lectors; and more.

Heart of the Storm A flood of support from the Diocese of Fort Worth helps those impacted by Hurricane Harvey. 8 16

Share their Journey Immigrants and refugees change from statistics to persons when we hear their stories.

Our Lady of Fatima One hundred years later, Our Lady of Fatima is celebrated with prayers, processions, and a dedication. 20 23

Energize and Engage Parishes hold Encuentros to increase Hispanic involvement and build toward V Encuentro.

Father Stanley Rother Beloved by North Texans, meet this Oklahoma priest, Guatemalan missionary, and first American . 26 32

To Accept or To Reject Father Tad Pacholcyzk, a leading bioethicist, examines religious and ethical issues at end-of-life.

Take Five with Father The Texas Rangers, Carmelite , and St. Joseph have a common bond: Father Daniel Kelley. 42 On the Cover Father Stanley Rother, beatified on Sept. 23 in Oklahoma City. (Photo courtesy of Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Archives)

2 NorthTexasCatholic.org DIOCESE November / December 2017 3 From the Editor

At the water’s edge

ou’ve likely heard one of the most famous statements ever Ymade about : “The blood of martyrs is the seed of Christians,” written by the Christian author in the year 197. About a century later, a pagan named Diognetus wrote a lesser-known but still riveting one: “Do you not see that the Christians thrown to the wild beasts — that they may recant the Lord — do not allow themselves to be beaten? Do you not see that the more they are punished, the more the others increase in number?” By the way of the Cross walked by Our Lord, beauty arose from horror; light from darkness; victory from abysmal failure; and life from death in the case of each martyr. They show us it’s a necessity to preach and plant the faith. Publisher Bishop Michael Olson They inspire us with their courage and selfless dedication. Com m unications Director Pat Svacina They remind us that though the path is narrow and difficult, it’s still one made royal by Our Lord. It’s fair to ask how our Ed itor Juan Guar ja do Church would look without so many men and women willing associate Ed itor susan Moses to love Christ to the death. ed itorial Assistant rosa Rosales In a way, martyrs are the pinnacle of that seeming contra- diction Christ proclaimed in all four : “Whoever finds Web Desi gner chris Kastner their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake Circulation carol Sm ith will find it.” There’s a lot to admire and learn from the martyrs. But contributors Michele Barke | Jenara Kocks-Bur gess there’s also a lot to be horrified by. What unbridled hatred Jacqueline Bur kepile | Cindy Barraza drove the murder of so many innocent Christians? Jerry Circelli | Joan Gillen Martyrdom is no of a dark past — it’s still happen- Ad rean In dolos | Lance Murray ing today. And its close cousins, persecution and intolerance, Michelle McDaniel | Em anuel Pereda are on the rise toward Christians. Not just in the Middle East Violeta Rocha | Mary Lou See woester either, but in more than 60 countries. Open Doors USA says Donna Ryc kaert | Matthew Sm ith each month 322 Christians are killed for their faith and 772 Jayme She denhelm | Ben Torres are victims of violence (rape, beatings, abductions, arrests). Translators reyna Castelan | Yolanda Neowc mb That should not be. We must play a part in helping these fellow Christians. re gular Colu mnists Kathy Harme Beck | Jeff Heg d len Our concern and goodwill cannot stop at the water’s edge. We Marlon De La Torre | Ali Hoffn ma must not exclaim “they’re half a world away,” and ignore or David Mills | Mary Morrell Callie No wlin | Joel Roi dr guez become numb to their cries. Fr. Jonathan Wallis I invite you to first pray for them every day, then consider donating to or volunteering with organizations who advocate and help persecuted Christians (In Defense of Christians, Editorial Office: 800 West Loop 820 S., Fort Worth, Texas 76108, 817-945-9424. Open Doors USA, and the Knights of Columbus, among others, offer various ways to help). There is so much we can NORTH TEXAS Magazine (USPS 751-370) (ISSN 0899-7020) is published bi-monthly by the Most Rev. Michael F. Olson, Bishop of the Diocese of do: fasting, offering novenas, learning about their plight, and Fort Worth. For those who are not registered parishioners in the Diocese of Fort urging our representatives to defend them. We must not stop Worth, subscription rates are $18 for one year, $35 for two years, $50 for three at the water’s edge. years. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Worth, TX. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Texas Catholic, 800 W. Loop 820 S., Fort Worth, Texas 76108. The appearance of advertising in these pages does not imply endorsement of Juan Guajardo businesses, services, or products. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising in all media. Editor For address changes, please contact Carol Smith, 817-945-9465. November / December 2017 3 Our Shepherd Speaks Bishop Michael F. Olson, STD, MA, Diocese of Fort Worth

Opening the Doors to Eternity

“The eyes of the world see no further than the joy of immaterial goods beyond those remain trapped behind the wall of hedo- this life, as mine see no further than this material goods that can be measured and nism — where goodness becomes valued wall when the door is closed. The eyes of quantified. The study and in things or persons only by the the Christian see deep into eternity.” practice of art and literature limited measurement of sense — St. John Vianney at every level opens the experience — that which is doors that allow us to pass physically pleasurable or emo- hat does seeing deep into through the walls of mate- tionally stimulating. eternity really look like? It rialism and consumerism, The mission of education involves being able to recognize, providing an egress through throughout our lives is to unlock Wto appropriate, and to cherish the eternal the wall of selfish narrative and to open these doors of and transcendental goods of truth, beauty, that otherwise would lock us truth, beauty, and goodness. and goodness. These three transcendental into darkness. Bishop Michael F. Olson Without these opened doors, we goods depend upon each other within the Without the good of remain locked behind the walls envelope of eternity. beauty, the arts become only raw spectacle of egoism, materialism, consumerism, and that shocks us with fear and desensitizes hedonism. Without these doors, education TRUTH. We see truth through the door us to hope. Without the good of authentic loses its mission, becoming simply the of knowledge. This opens to us through beauty, the arts become valued only if they skills training needed for one to navigate such subjects as theology, philosophy, histo- can be quantified and sold. This replaces the darkened room or to build other walls ry, logic, science, and mathematics. Other character with celebrity in the fiber of the within the darkened room. supportive disciplines include the norms artist’s profile. I ask each of us to examine our con- of grammar and the rules and strategy of sciences and our lives. Where does each of athletics. Truth enables us to belong to a GOODNESS. We experience goodness us encounter truth, beauty, and goodness in community with a shared history greater through the study and practice of religion. our own lives? What literature do we read? than ourselves or our own fabrication. Religion holds us together with the eternal. What music informs our soul? What do we Truth provides order and peace through Religion offers the encounter spiritually study to expand our knowledge? What do justly-measured prioritization. Truth with He whom I cannot manipulate or con- we believe as our religion and how do we enables us to recognize and to meet those trol but can only worship — God. Religion practice it? human needs we cannot meet by our own enables us to see the goodness of the world The transcendental goods of truth, individual power by providing an objective because of its status of being created by beauty, and goodness provide us with a measure by which we can agree on - God — “and God saw that it was good.” clear measurement for the Christian virtues ities among shared goals and discern the Religion enables us to see clearly the dignity of faith — by which we know truth; hope appropriate means to attain them. Truth of the person because of the person being — by which we perceive beauty; and char- opens the door through the wall of egotism created in the image and likeness of God. ity — in which we encounter goodness in and selfish interests, enabling us to see deep- Religion enables me to witness and value communion with our neighbor in the very ly into eternity. with reverence the goodness of embodied life of God in Whom our souls find rest. Without truth, a selfish narrative takes human beings differentiated naturally for a over and dominates each one of us and procreative purpose — “bone of my bones damages the common good of our society. and flesh of my flesh.” Religion enables me to see the goodness of a person not as an BEAUTY. We see the eternal good of object but as someone with a name and a beauty through art, music, literature, poetry, family. Religion enables me to see myself as Editor’s Note: Adapted from an address and drama. Beauty, closely related to truth, created by God for a purpose. to teachers and principals of diocesan affords us hope. Beauty enables us to share Without the door of religion, we Catholic schools on Aug. 7, 2017.

4 NorthTexasCatholic.org Around the Diocese

NTC photo/Ben Torres Lovers of the Holy Cross welcomed to Arlington Northwest Deanery youth ARLINGTON — “We want for 13 other members of to share the gift of God with the religious community Mass celebrates unity, faith other people.” currently studying spirituali- That’s how Sister Maria ty and theology at schools in Ho Thi Quy, the United States. WICHITA FALLS — Fort Worth area, so they general of the Lovers of the Sister Theresa Y Thi Bringing teens together to really take advantage of Holy Cross (LHC) of Vinh, Tran, one of the two resi- experience the universality the opportunity to join with Vietnam, described her con- dents of the convent, arrived of the Church can be teens from their deanery gregation’s mission in North in Fort Worth after com- challenging for rural and celebrate the faith they Texas. pleting a master’s degree in parishes one or two hours share,” Cassie Erazo, youth “Words cannot express spiritual direction at Loyola apart and up to three hours minister at Sacred Heart, our appreciation for our University in Chicago. from diocesan events near said. home. You have fulfilled our “We’re very happy to be Fort Worth. “What I enjoy about dream,” she said, addressing here,” said the new gradu- To fill that need, these youth Masses, dinners, Bishop Michael Olson and ate, who currently serves at parishes in the Northwest and socials that follow is guests who gathered inside Vietnamese Martyrs with Deanery began hosting how amazing it is to be the religious order’s new Sister Maria Chu Thi Huu. youth Masses followed by a able to meet and interact convent in Arlington. “We “We’re looking forward meal and social eight years with people who are a part promise to keep you in our to helping children with ago. On Sept. 17, 90 teens of my faith whom I would daily prayers.” catechism and religious attended the youth Mass probably never meet in my On Aug. 19, Bishop education.” hosted by Sacred Heart daily life,” said Madelyn Olson blessed the order’s The community’s leader, Parish in Wichita Falls. Mendoza, a 15-year-old modest, three-bedroom Sister Maria Ho Thi Quy, “Small town parishes member of St. Joseph dwelling. In addition to said, “Our mission is to serve sometimes don’t have the Church in Rhineland. housing the two sisters the local Church but also the resources to get their teens assigned to Vietnamese universal Church. We have to diocesan events in the – Jenara Kocks Burgess Martyrs Parish in Arlington, great hope for the future.” the convent will serve as a place of rest and retreat – Joan Kurkowski-Gillen For full versions of these stories plus more photos, visit NorthTexasCatholic.org/local-news

November / December 2017 5 4 NorthTexasCatholic.org Around the Diocese

Blessing God’s creation, Fr. Richard Eldredge, TOR, pastor of Good Shepherd Parish in Colleyville, remembering St. Francis blesses the animals, large and small. (NTC photo/Jayme Shedenhelm)

COLLEYVILLE — Several But the loved Share the love of Jesus, parishes in the diocese, God first and creation in its beginning at home including Good Shepherd proper order, stressed Father Parish in Colleyville, honored Augustine Thompson, OP, the Memorial of St. Francis a biographer of St. Francis, FORT WORTH — Most the 72 disciples, “everybody of Assisi with the Blessing of in a Catholic News Agency people think of missionaries has this task.” the Animals. interview. in foreign lands, but the first St. Patrick Cathedral in The tradition began “He loved nature and place to be a missionary is Fort Worth hosted a diocesan back in the 13th century animals, and they caused him your own home, according mission recognition Oct. with St. Francis, who not only to pray and praise to Father Tom Craig, 15, one week before World considered himself a God but to become ecstatic. the diocesan director of Mission Sunday, featuring to all of God’s Nature was a reason for him Propagation of the Faith and the mission work of various creation. to praise God, and he loved chairman of the Diocesan schools, parishes, and Famous stories tell of the nature. But there was no con- Mission Council. organizations. saint preaching to hundreds fusion between nature and “It’s got to start with us World Mission Sunday, of birds who sat in rapt God for Francis,” he said. who are baptized. It’s our initiated in 1927 by attention, or negotiating Around the world, peo- responsibility to evangelize Pius XI, joins the worldwide peace between a hungry wolf ple and their pets participate right where we are,” said Fr. Church in prayer and and a terrorized village. in this blessing. Craig. Just as Jesus sent out offerings for missions.

IN MEMORY FATHER IVOR DALE KOCH...... October 18, 2017

PASTOR of Sacred Heart Parish in Wichita Falls...... 1989-2006 Born...... November 5, 1930, in What Cheer, Iowa Ordained...... June 16, 1984 at Sacred Heart Church

Please keep our recently deceased priests, , and religious in your prayers. Full obituaries are available at NorthTexasCatholic.org.

6 NorthTexasCatholic.org Deacon candidates The class of 2020 deacon candidates with Bishop Olson. (NTC photo/Ben Torres) instituted as lectors

FORT WORTH — One after person is instituted lector they another, 28 men knelt before are always a lector. Diocese names Bishop Michael Olson and Rendon said the 28 men placed their hands on the Holy instituted Sept. 30 at a special Donald Wagner CFO Scripture. Mass at St. Patrick Cathedral in “Take this book of Holy Fort Worth come from “differ- Scripture and be faithful in ent backgrounds, but united FORT WORTH — The Army officer, then worked handing on the word of God, by one faith, one Lord, one diocese appointed Donald in corporate management, so that it may grow strong .” Their cultural heri- Wagner as Chief Financial customer service, sales, and in the hearts of the people,” tage includes the U.S., Mexico, Officer. profit loss and responsibility. Bishop Olson told each one. South America, and Vietnam. The CFO administers Wagner holds an MBA Each candidate responded, David Poole, pastoral diocesan finances under from University of “Amen,” and rose, returning assistant at St. Jude Thaddeus the bishop’s authori- Dallas and earned a to their seat, instituted into the Parish in Burkburnett, said ty, protects Church bachelor’s degree ministry of lector. “The significance for me as we assets, and works in industrial “It’s the first major step move forward is really the rec- to understand the administration for someone who is in forma- ognition of where we’ve come financial needs at Iowa State tion for Holy Orders,” said from, what we’ve learned so of the diocese. University. Juan Rendon, director of far, and actually being instilled Wagner said these Wagner appre- Permanent Deacon Formation to be able to share the word of duties are accomplished “by ciates this “special oppor- for the Diocese of Fort Worth. [God] with our parishioners committing to the highest tunity,” adding he “is not Lectors read biblical text and each other.” standards of fiscal account- entering into something that other than the . The ability and integrity.” is broken, but is vibrant and ministry is perpetual — once a — Lance Murray Wagner worked the doing well. My challenge past 20 years as the business is to see how I can build on manager of St. Maria what is here and help the Goretti Parish in Arlington diocese continue to progress For full versions of these stories plus more photos, and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and move forward.” Parish in Keller. He served visit NorthTexasCatholic.org/local-news more than 10 years as a U.S. — Jacqueline Burkepile

November / December 2017 7 Faithful from across the diocese, Fort Worth help their brothers Heart and sisters in need hen Rick Trevino saw the news reports on Hurricane Harvey, he had a “feeling that wouldn’t let go” that God was calling him to help. After praying about it, he and Whis fellow St. Bartholomew parishioner Jason Castellanos hitched a in the boat to Rick’s truck and drove south to Beaumont. Trevino and Castellanos arrived “ready and willing to do anything,” Trevino explained. They formed a staging area with other initial responders in the parking lot of a shopping center. Downed power lines prevented them from rescuing families from flooded homes by boat, so they shuttled water, food, and torm supplies to stranded neighborhoods and employees at hospitals. S One day they helped a lone man pull his saturated belongings,

By Susan Moses

Houston’s skyline is seen as Buffalo Bayou floods past its banks near downtown in Harvey’s aftermath. The Buffalo Bayou, which courses through the nation’s fourth largest city, surged past record numbers and flooded thousands of homes in Houston. (Trong Nguyen/Shutterstock.com)

8 NorthTexasCatholic.org carpet, and sheetrock to the curb. MOVING FROM RESPONSE of Galveston-Houston (CCGH), which After three nights of sleeping in the TO RECOVERY began providing relief even before the truck, they headed north to Fort Worth. Just a few hours after Trevino and flood waters had receded, according to Trevino, Castellanos, and hundreds Castellanos returned to Fort Worth, Speer. The Fort Worth group helped a of others in the Diocese of Fort Worth Catholic Charities Fort Worth (CCFW) woman move her salvaged possessions into felt compelled to assist with Hurricane sent its first team southbound to help with storage and assembled kits of hygiene and Harvey recovery after the immense recovery. cleaning supplies, but the majority of their storm lingered for days on the southeast Although CCFW parish relations ser- work concentrated on long-term recovery. coast of Texas, deluging neighborhoods vices manager Francine Speer has assisted The CCFW mobile van was one of with as much as 55 inches of rain. with previous disaster recoveries, includ- the first to reach neighborhoods devastat- Even professionals experienced ing the West fertilizer plant explosion, ed by the relentless rain. The team, a mix in disaster relief use “massive” and Granbury flooding, and the Wichita Falls of volunteers and employees, informed “unimaginable” to describe the enormity tornado, she admitted, “Even people very individuals of available services and of the storm’s impact. Nearly six million experienced in disaster relief are blown helped them register for FEMA aid, SBA people live in the eight counties most away by this damage and what it will disaster loans, and services from Catholic affected by the storm, and almost take to recover.” The devastation is “truly Charities. 800,000 households have registered regional” and the “scope and scale” of the Assisting with computer for Federal Emergency Management loss is still unknown, she added. applications was practical, but Agency aid, such as rental assistance and The CCFW team allied with money for damage repairs. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese Continued on Page 10

HELPING HANDS. A team of Catholic Charities Fort Worth social workers and volunteers are seen outside their sister agency in Houston during their week-long deployment. Two CCFW teams consisting of up to 13 staffers and five volunteers devoted more than 1,300 hours of help in the battered Gulf Coast and served 800 families. (Photo courtesy CCFW)

DIOCESE November / December 2017 9 A man repairs a flood-damaged home in Houston Sept. 2. Catholic groups and other Christian charities IN DEPTH: Harvey’s provided a helping hand with cleanup in several of the flooded neighborhoods. Impact on Texas (CNS photo/Rick Wilking, Reuters)

A CCFW From Page 9 worker canvasses a listening was just as important, according to Rosa Dominguez, heavily damaged a family interventionist with CCFW. For many storm survivors, neighborhood this was the first opportunity to tell their story. “We let the near Houston in September. victims tell their story. We give them time and the ability to (Photo courtesy speak. We heard a lot of things,” she said. Rosa Dominguez) Recounting their flood experience was often a first step in healing from the tragedy, according to Dominguez. She recalled a young pregnant woman who came to them on the day her baby was due. She had lost everything she owned and her A lot of people will be forgotten who are not connected to residence was destroyed. Dominguez gave her diapers, some gift resources. We are here for everyone.” cards, information about services, and reassurance. Dominguez said, “She needed someone to tell her it was REINFORCEMENTS ARRIVE going to be okay. ‘You will overcome this. Anticipate the good. After a week, the first team returned to Fort Worth, and Your baby will be born, and you will get the help you need.’ She a second team of five volunteers and five CCFW employees looked sad when she came in, but she left happy.” deployed to Houston. One day, the CCFW team canvassed door-to-door in a Steve Landon, a member of Good Shepherd Parish in neighborhood to offer information and applications for long-term Colleyville, regularly volunteers as a driver for CCFW’s Tarrant assistance. That’s when the devastation got “hard to see” for Jay Riders Network. When he heard about the opportunity to go to Semple, program manager for CCFW’s street outreach service. areas impacted by Hurricane Harvey, he “jumped in, because I Seeing the four-foot water line inside of homes and the mounds wanted to help.” of furniture, toys, and even Christmas trees lining the streets The team spent two days at the CCGH office in downtown brought home the reality of the destruction. Houston helping clients register for services. Landon estimat- However, Semple was buoyed by the solidarity of the CCFW ed they input as many as 4,000 applications for assistance and team and other volunteer organizations providing assistance. helped 500 who visited in person. He said, “The point is to serve as many people as possible. Their purpose was “triage. Find out who has the biggest

10 NorthTexasCatholic.org IN DEPTH: Harvey’s Impact on Texas In the face of devastation left by ‘Maria,’ solidarity is a sign of faith

By Violeta Rocha WATER: Harvey drenched southeast Texas with an estimated19 trillion gallons of da Colón does not stop Puerto Rico, she says that through water. praying for her native relatives living in San Juan — Puerto Rico, in the face of where communication is some- Athe deep devastation what better — she has DISPLACEMENT: At Harvey’s left by Hurricane learned that the central height, more than 34,500 María on the island. “As things part of the island faces people were housed in shelters Colón, 81, slowly get destroyed roads, water throughout Texas. a parishioner of shortages, lack of St. Jude Parish in better, electricity and, to make Mansfield, said “to neighbors matters worse, many FINANCIAL: Early estimates put see a Puerto Rico people have lost their the financial damage of Hurricane that was all green share what jobs. Harvey at $190 billion. and now looks Roberto Colón, burned,” saddens little they 57, Ada’s son, is glad her, but she is also have.” that his 23-year-old HOME LOSS: A staggering thankful to God that daughter, who is a stu- — Roberto Colón 273,276 homes were damaged. her relatives survived dent at the University Another 15,528 were destroyed. Hurricane María’s of Puerto Rico, and winds of 150 miles his wife suffered no per hour, and is determined to physical damage. His wife traveled * Sources: Texas DPS, ABC News, CNN.com, Weatherbell, National Weather Service, FEMA, and Texas move on. to San Juan a week before the quick Governor’s Office. “It has been a terrible catastro- and devastating impact of María, phe... every day you get up, think- to visit her mother, who is ill. ing that it will be a better day for Solidarity has been as strong need and who needs help first,” said Landon. them, with faith in God,” she said. as the tragedy, Roberto points out, One of those was a woman whose husband Originally from Barranquitas, a and child died earlier in the summer, then mountainous area in the center of Continued on Page 12 she lost her apartment in the flood. CCGH located resources to help her clean out her apartment and find new housing. Those receiving help were very appre- ciative and often surprised that the team travelled so far to help. As Landon and the team canvassed a neighborhood north of downtown Houston, a driver rolled down his window and asked if any help was available. When Landon gave him gas money, he got out of the car, hugged Landon, and broke into tears of gratitude. In their six days, Landon felt the CCFW team “made a big dent and did a lot of good,” but “it will take a massive amount of private help to get that town back on its feet.”

Continued on Page 12

CNS photo/Carlos Garcia Rawlins, Reuters

DIOCESE November / December 2017 11 From Page 11 From Page 11

A DOWNPOUR OF SUPPORT, Stripped of their homes and jobs “neighbors have shared diesel,” which CLOSER TO HOME by the storm, 139 families plan to make is needed to run the generator that Charity begins with mixing bowls and North Texas their new home, with the keeps the refrigerator and fans work- blue jeans? Students at St. Maria Goretti aid of CCFW. With the shelter now ing, which are needed for the welfare in Arlington held a bake closed, CCFW is providing intensive of his mother-in-law, who is 72 and sale; Nolan Catholic High School students case management to assist 93 families disabled. And “as things slowly get donated thousands to with long-term help better, neighbors share what little they come out of uniform, such as permanent have,” he added. and St. Andrew housing, job Roberto and Ada sent a total of Catholic School IN DEPTH: placement, financial 150 pounds of supplies to the island, raised $4,200 in just planning, health thanks to a nephew who let them use one day — all to fund A Generous services, and more. a benefit given by his employer, an Harvey relief efforts. Response Only 26 families still airline that allowed its employees to Other schools, par- reside in temporary make free shipments to Puerto Rico ishes, and Knights of housing. Sixty-seven because of the disaster. Columbus councils in families were moved “We sent canned vegetables, the diocese collected into permanent chicken, salmon, coffee, rice, batteries, cleaning supplies, housing by CCFW, and flashlights,” said Ada, who has hygiene items, and gift SCHOOLS: Catholic Schools with the St. Vincent been praying for friends she has not cards for distribution from around the diocese de Paul Society been able to communicate with yet in flooded regions. contributed by fundraising, providing household In addition to attending St. Just a week after donating gift cards, hygiene furnishings to those Jude Parish, the Colón family also the storm inundated items, water, and other supplies. families. attends St. Joseph and St. Matthew the Texas Gulf At a training parishes in Arlington, and says they Coast, a diocese- session for new volun- were moved when a few weeks ago at wide Hurricane teers, Clarissa Sutter, St. Matthew, the parish community Harvey Relief associate director of prayed and dedicated the second col- Fund Collection parish relations for lection for the victims of Hurricanes raised more than DIOCESE: Second collections CCFW, explained the Harvey, Irma, and María, as well as $425,000. Coupled held in parishes throughout the necessity of a massive the earthquake in Mexico. with direct donations diocese raised $428,679. community response “We shed tears when we saw to CCFW and a to a disaster of this they dedicated a few minutes to contribution from magnitude. “People our beautiful island,” Ada said Catholic Charities want to help others gratefully. USA, the Diocese in wake of disas- Bishop Michael Olson of Fort Worth ters. Volunteers can announced second collections across provided $690,000 provide the human the diocese on Oct. 7-8 to assist those to those impacted by VOLUNTEERS: CCFW capital that is needed devastated by the earthquakes in Hurricane Harvey. volunteers and employees who to return a communi- Mexico and by Hurricane María in With temporary were deployed to the Gulf ty to self-sufficiency.” the Caribbean. housing in short Coast served more than 1,300 Dominguez, who Roberto says that his faith and supply in the deluged hours, as of press time. deployed with the solidarity will remain strong to help, areas, some flood first CCFW team, because “when you have faith in God, victims traveled to agreed. “We need to everything is possible... sharing what Fort Worth to find share responsibility you have and depriving yourself of shelter. The Wilkerson-Greines Activity of trying to help when a situation like doing certain things that you have Center in Fort Worth served as temporary this happens. Going [to the disaster zone] done before; that is what we are quarters for 247 evacuees from Hurricane helped me. I saw firsthand, every time, doing,” he said. Harvey for 22 days. CCFW provided that we were giving people some hope María is the strongest hurricane them more than $10,000 of immediate and helping them out. When FEMA to make landfall in Puerto Rico since assistance in cash and gift cards donated leaves, Catholic Charities will be there to 1928. As of October 15, the death toll by the community. help fill the gaps.” stood at 48.

12 NorthTexasCatholic.org November / December 2017 13 New Vocation Meet the New Team Casts Vocation Team Wider Net Father Jonathan Wallis, STL Fr. Wallis will serve as Director of The Diocese of Fort Worth is taking a new approach to Seminarian Formation for the new-look priestly vocations. Rather than an individual director Vocations Office. He is currently Dean helping men and women explore a vocational call, as of Students at St. Joseph Seminary was done in years prior, vocations will be fostered by a College in Covington, La. He was team of priests. ordained in 2007. Bishop Michael Olson told the North Texas Catholic it’s a unique approach that will help build a culture of encounter and cast a wider net for young men and Father Keith Hathaway women “looking [into religious life] and discerning deeply.” The goal is to increase vocations for a booming Fr. Hathaway will serve as a Vocations diocese by not letting potential candidates slip through Liaison, in addition to his current the cracks. assignment as a full-time chaplain Four vocations liaisons will take the lead in offer- at Notre Dame Catholic School in ing discernment events like St. Andrew’s Breakfasts Wichita Falls. He was ordained to the and Dinners, Come and See weekends at St. Joseph priesthood in 2015. Seminary, and Holy Hours, in addition to annual dioce- san events like Quo Vadis, Vocation Awareness Program, Father Manuel Holguin and the Lenten Discernment Program. The liaisons will also provide a presence at more parishes, including rural ones, and among Spanish and Vietnamese speakers, as In addition to being pastor of St. Peter all four priests will continue their current assignments the Apostle Parish in Fort Worth, as a while also taking on their new roles. Vocations Liaison, Fr. Holguin will help Father Jonathan Wallis, the fifth member of build vocations in the diocese, especially the team, will serve as the Director of Seminarian among Spanish-speaking men. Fr. Formation, overseeing the formation of seminarians Holguin was ordained in 2012. while he continues his assignment as Dean of Students at St. Joseph Seminary College in Covington, La. “Prayer and catechetical teaching is a key factor in Father Nghia Nguyen this new approach,” Fr. Nghia Nguyen said. “We will be doing more catechetical teaching of the priesthood and Fr. Nguyen will help minister to helping men foster a deeper prayer life with our Lord. young men interested in priesthood or “The practical side is because of the size of our religious life as a Vocations Liaison. He diocese we are breaking the task into various sites and is currently parochial vicar at St. John deaneries” — a task that will now be easier thanks to the Apostle Parish in North Richland the four-man team, he added. Hills. Fr. Nguyen was ordained in 2016. Bishop Olson said the four liaisons would act less as directors who “recruit” and more as bridges, accom- panying young men who feel a call to religious life, Father Matthew Tatyrek providing guidance in discerning, but also emphasizing formation, greater explanation on the sacrament of Holy Orders, and a stronger prayer life. Vocations Liaison Fr. Tatyrek will Men and women who want to learn more about help foster vocations to the priesthood vocations in the diocese, including upcoming events, and religious life in addition to being should visit fwdioc.org/vocations or call the voca- a full-time chaplain at Nolan Catholic tions office at 817-945-9321. High School in Fort Worth. Fr. Tatyrek was ordained in 2016.

14 NorthTexasCatholic.org DIOCESE November / December 2017 15 William Lori of Baltimore urged lawyers, judges, and public servants who attended the Red Mass to protect religious freedom. (NTC photos/Ben Torres)

Jurists Called to Protect Religious Liberty

By Matthew Smith of the Holy Spirit more robustly into our U.S., the event is relatively new to Fort lives,” the archbishop said. “Not only to Worth, this being the diocese’s 12th year to strengthen and encourage us in the chal- celebrate the Mass. eligious liberty pertains not just lenges of professional life but also to help Fort Worth attorney Robert Gieb to what we do on Sunday but “in us serve the cause of truth, freedom, and initiated the Mass “to bring lawyers and our whole lives.While religious common good. judges together to pray. We argue a lot, but Rfreedom is personal, it is never merely “It is no small thing that we pray for.” it’s good to come together in a different private,” said Archbishop William Lori of Archbishop Lori urged attendees to setting.” Baltimore. couple their standing in the professional Gieb, a St. Patrick parishioner, said Archbishop Lori, the chairman of community with the unique gifts the Holy Archbishop Lori’s presentation encapsu- the United States Conference of Catholic Spirit imparts to each person. lated what Gieb thinks the Church needs. Bishops’ Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Archbishop Lori said, “I would submit “Catholic lawyers and judges, Christian Liberty, delivered the homily, followed that you are all in a position to urge your lawyers, and good people of whatever faith by a guest lecture, during the diocesan colleagues to consider carefully the impor- need to be in the public square.” annual Red Mass on Sept. 28 at St. Patrick tance of maintaining religious freedom, Plano attorney John Griffin, a mem- Cathedral in Fort Worth. which is increasingly threatened at home ber of St. Ann Church in Coppell, said Attorneys, judges, law students, and and abroad at this time in our history.” he began attending the Red Mass in Fort other public officials gather each year at Archbishop Lori, during his post-Mass Worth as a student at then Texas Wesleyan the Red Mass to seek guidance and wis- lecture, delivered an overview of religious School of Law. dom from the Holy Spirit in the adminis- freedom through America’s history in light Griffin said, “It gives us a chance to tration of justice. of Supreme Court rulings, legislation, gather to remember the mission we’re all “You and I and all involved in the statutes, and local ordinances. called to, to defend our faith and stand for practice of law and administration of Although the Red Mass dates to the our principles as Catholics through our justice can indeed welcome the influence 13th century in Europe and 1928 in the occupations and every aspect of our lives.”

14 NorthTexasCatholic.org DIOCESE November / December 2017 15 Catholic Charities Fort Worth president Heather Reynolds embraces former refugee Amani Stephane, who now works with CCFW.

Share Their

ourney At the heart of the immigration J debate is a human person and By Susan Moses their journey Photos by Juan Guajardo

16 NorthTexasCatholic.org n Sept. 27, launched “Share the Journey,” a two-year world- wide campaign to promote encountersO with migrants, by meeting hundreds of refugees and immigrants at St. Peter’s Square. Later that afternoon, Bishop Michael Olson responded to Pope Francis’ call to welcome the stranger by meeting with migrants from four countries at Catholic Charities Fort Worth (CCFW). According to Bishop Olson, the pope is “especially concerned that we lose sight of the human stories of refugees and people become faceless, nameless, and Amani Stephane without a voice when they are lumped in as refugees. What’s at stake is their sense of belonging with a family and belonging in a community.” The bishop suggested hostility towards migrants is fueled by fear, ignorance, and apathy — all of which can be diminished by personal encounters with immigrants and refugees. He told the migrants, “We have to continue this conversation within society . . . to help other’s voices be heard, to bring them forward, because you are making contributions to society, you belong, and you are needed.” In solidarity with the Holy Father, the bishop shared the journey with:

FROM DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, AMANI STEPHANE Amani Stephane wants people to Ru Hta Dun know that refugees are contributors. “When you give them a chance, they give back to society.” Born to the “wrong tribe” in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Stephane grew up with rejection and discrimination, and when civil war broke out, the intoler- ance escalated to killings. Fearing for his life, he left his job as a pharmacist and he and his wife sought asylum in the U.S. His first job here: doing laundry in a nursing home. Stephane has since earned a master’s degree in mental health. He and his wife own their home, where they are raising their four children. He works with refugees at Catholic Charities Fort Worth, and

Continued on Page 18

DIOCESE Hussain Al Mftool November / December 2017 17 From Page 17 he admires their resilience. According to Stephane, refugees come seeking safety and work hard to establish themselves and contribute to their new community.

FROM MYANMAR, RU HTA DUN Ru Hta Dun has faced enormous challenges. Surviving persecution in her homeland of Myanmar. Losing her husband to malaria. Leaving her young son with her sister as she and her daugh- ter fled the country. Walking by night to a refugee community in Malaysia. Living four years where any resources you had might be stolen. Her attitude, however, is grateful. Domingo Gonzalez and Flor Torres Because of the “welcoming by America” she received eight years ago, she feels safe and secure. She works as a case manager warehouse but is most excited that in the in CCFW’s refugee resettlement program. U.S. “anyone can study.” He plans to take She has become a citizen, bought a house, classes at Tarrant County College next and her daughter is studying aircraft semester towards a business management Strengthened science at a university and recently earned degree so he can accomplish his dreams a pilot’s license. “step by step.” by faith Dun said, “Refugees leave behind everything [they] have. It’s not easy to start a new life in a new country.” But she doesn’t FROM MEXICO, DOMINGO Two local Catholics talk regret her decision to leave Myanmar 12 GONZALEZ about their dreams, years ago. “I hope for a safe and secure life. After working more than a dozen years in I dream for my children’s bright future. construction, Domingo Gonzalez launched and uncertain futures Today all my dreams come true.” his own underground utility business, and it’s grown to six employees. His family is growing By Susan Moses too — he has two daughters and a son on the FROM IRAQ, HUSSAIN AL MFTOOL way. But Gonzalez is afraid his flourishing Hussain Al Mftool was a target, business and family will vanish. A DREAMer, because he worked in Iraq for an inter- he fears the DACA program will end and he OR MOST OF HER national communications company that will be separated from his wife and children. conducted business with the U.S. govern- Gonzalez came to the U.S. from Mexico life, Carolina Imperial ment. When his sons walked to school, he with family when he was 14. At first, he saw Fconsidered herself a followed closely behind to make certain only a great nation, with great people and caged songbird. “I felt so tied they were not kidnapped. Before he drove, more opportunities for a better life. Now he up.” he checked underneath his car for a bomb. senses that he is unwelcome, even hated. In 1995, Imperial’s parents He did not feel safe at the market, because “The President and Congress and the rest brought six-year-old Carolina “they know you, where you worked.” of the people need to find a better solution,” and her three siblings to Fort Al Mftool’s life may have been saved said Gonzalez. “DACA is not just a work Worth from Monterrey, Mexico, by his Special Immigrant Visa. He arrived permit, it’s lives and families.” fearing the crime and violence in Fort Worth with his wife and two sons that ultimately took her uncle’s in January. Now, he said, “anything is life. possible.” His sons are happy they can play She grew aware of her outside and are doing well in the fifth and To view videos of the immigrants’ undocumented status in high stories please visit YouTube.com/ school, when her friends got third grades. NorthTexasCatholic Al Mftool likes his job at a retail

18 NorthTexasCatholic.org N SOME WAYS, MARIA is a typical suburban mother. She drives her two Ichildren to school, encourages them to make “A”s, and proudly applauds at band concerts, volleyball tournaments, and baseball games. She is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at St. Joseph Parish in Arlington, and her daughter is an altar server. However, each day Maria lives in fear she will be deported. Growing up as the youngest of 12 children in Guanajuato, Mexico, Maria often traveled to North Texas to visit her married sister, who moved to Fort Worth because of her husband’s job. Her last visit has extended years beyond her travel visa. She met and mar- Domingo Gonzalez and Flor Torres ried Raul, who has worked construction jobs in the U.S. for 20 years despite being denied a work permit. They are raising their children, who were born here. Maria admitted life as an undocu- mented immigrant is difficult. “I don’t Carolina Imperial know if we will stay. I’m afraid the family will be separated. The kids are doing well in school with good grades, but I’m scared it will end for them.” She pointed driver’s permits and she couldn’t. immersion, because “I want to give out the bias against immigrants, especial- A gifted singer, she won several myself fully to God.” ly undocumented ones. “But we do what state competitions but did not have As a DACA beneficiary, Imperial citizens do. We pay the bills, we pay the identification to travel to national has signed with a talent agency, rent. Immigrants ask for less help because competitions. And after graduating singing music from mariachi to pop, of fear,” she asserted. from North Crowley High School, she making commercials, and doing Despite the threat of deportation, couldn’t work or attend college. voiceover work. Part of her earnings Maria remains in Texas for the same The Deferred Action for help support her parents. reason immigrants have come for gener- Childhood Arrivals (DACA) executive Imperial understood that DACA ations: to give her children more oppor- order, signed in 2012, was “everything wasn’t permanent, so when she heard tunity. She said, “I tell my children to get I had been waiting for my whole life.” the order was rescinded, she knew she good grades, go to college, and everything She was able to learn to drive, to would “really rely on my faith.” She is is possible. We will see our dreams come work, and to pay taxes. optimistic that a permanent solution true through our children.” Her husband One of those jobs was as the will be made law, even if it doesn’t agreed, adding, “We work hard to try to cantor at a in Grand include a path to citizenship. give our kids the best that we can.” Prairie. Imperial’s mother taught her The 28-year-old said, “I will Her support and strength, she said, the basics of Christianity, but the follow rules, wait, and have faith. And comes from God. “Every day I ask for family didn’t attend church. Although I keep singing no matter the situation, protection and give thanks for the bless- she had sung at countless weddings because that is a talent given to me by ings He has given me.” and quinceañaras, she experienced a God. God works in amazing ways. I Her dream is to become a citizen like “more powerful feeling” each time she can’t doubt what my plan is.” eight of her siblings. sang the Mass parts and hymns. Imperial knows other DACA “I would be happy to spend my After asking many questions and beneficiaries, and explained, “This is lifetime here, and it would be secure that attending RCIA, Imperial was ready to our home. We are proud of our roots we could stay. We could think more about join the Catholic Church. and our traditions, but if you cut us, the future.” But for now, Maria and Raul She insisted on Baptism by full we bleed red, white, and blue.” focus on their children’s future.

DIOCESE November / December 2017 19 The newly dedicated statue of Our Lady of Fatima, crafted from a single block of stone in Vietnam, is seen outside her namesake parish in Fort Worth on Oct. 15. (NTC Photo/Ben Torres)

More photos are available for viewing on NorthTexasCatholic.org

The United Nations Pilgrim Statue of Our Lady of Fatima is carried during a procession outside St. Patrick Cathedral on Oct. 13. The statue, and various , made a stop in Fort Worth in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Fatima. (NTC Photo/Ben Torres)

20 NorthTexasCatholic.org Always with Us On the 100th anniversary of her apparition, countless local Catholics show their devotion to Our Lady of Fatima

By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen

acing danger and hardship, thousands of Vietnamese fled their home- land after the Fall of Saigon in 1975 to escape life under Communism. Arriving in the United States, they brought with them their only and most valuable possession — faith. F“You’ve been brought here, across a great ocean, under the guidance of Our Lady of Fatima who never breaks her promises,” Bishop Michael Olson told members of a Vietnamese parish named in honor of the Marian apparition. “She has been with you through suffering and helped you to be present here.” Hundreds of families gathered in front of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in east Fort Worth on Oct. 15 to watch the bishop bless a new statue of the church’s , made by craftsmen from a solid block of stone in Vietnam. Dedication of the sculpture, which rests on a sloping cement platform in front of the church, capped a weekend of activities in the Diocese of Fort Worth com- memorating the centennial anniversary of the final apparition of the Blessed Mary in Fatima. On May 13, 1917, the Mother of God appeared to a trio of young peasant children, Jacinta, Francisco, and Lucia, at Cova da Iria near the Portuguese village of Fatima. The apparitions continued on the 13th day of every month through October with Our Lady giving the visionaries messages of penance, prayer, and peace for the world. Declaring herself Our Lady of the Rosary during her last visit on Oct. 13, the radiant apparition in white proved her messages were from heaven with the “dance of the sun” — a miracle that stunned both believers and skeptics. According to many in the crowd of 70,000 spectators, the sun twirled in the heavens and seemed to plummet toward earth before returning to its normal place in the sky. “Today is the fruit of the Miracle of the Sun,” Bishop Olson said during a Mass concelebrated in both English and Vietnamese with Father John Tinh Tran, CRM, pastor of Our Lady of Fatima. “You are living proof of the promise of

Continued on Page 22 Continued on Page 22

DIOCESE November / December 2017 21 From Page 21

Fatima that communism, godlessness, atheism, and materialism will not have the last word.” The Fatima apparitions occurred during a dark time in world history. World War I was raging across Europe, and Portugal was in the throes of Freemasonry, a movement that tried to de-Christianize the country. Bolsheviks came to power in Russia and spread their revolution — a precursor to communism and atheism — to surrounding nations. “One hundred years ago, things like the Bolshevik revolution brought us fear,” the bishop pointed out during his homily. “But when we are afraid, Our Lady comes to us, shows us Jesus, and that miracle of Fatima is what sustains us.” The power of Mary’s Fatima message was evident earlier in the week Young Catholics hold up traditional Vietnamese lanterns as Bishop Michael Olson dedicates a new statue of when parishioners from across the Our Lady of Fatima at her namesake parish in Fort Worth Oct. 15. (NTC Photo/Ben Torres) diocese stood in long lines to venerate the United Nations Pilgrim Statue of Fatima and the first class relics of the in the diocese with a global Rosary for repent because she wants everybody in Church’s youngest non-martyred , peace at the cathedral and an evening heaven. I love that about her.” Francisco and Jacinta. Organized locally Marian procession through adjacent At Most Blessed Sacrament, the line by Suzette Chaires, the three-foot statue downtown streets. of visitors who came to venerate the Our and relics were on view at Most Blessed “It’s a time of grace. It’s a historic Lady of Fatima statue and relics was con- Sacrament Parish in Arlington Oct. 12 time,” said Chaires who coordinated the tinuous. Therese O’Flaherty traveled from and St. Patrick Cathedral in Fort Worth event with help from Marlon De La Torre, Flower Mound to the Arlington church Oct. 13. diocesan director of catechesis. “The pope with her nine children. Carved in the late 1940s guided by is offering a Fatima indulgence for anyone “We’ve always had a special devo- instructions from the Fatima visionary, who honors Our Lady in a public way. It’s tion to Our Lady of Fatima. I wanted Lucia dos Santos, the replica statue was a beautiful thing that so many people have the children to experience this and brought to the meditation room at the come together.” receive blessings from the little saints they United Nations in 1952 by the late Msgr. “The celebration of the 100th love,” explained the Roman Catholic Harold Colgan, founder of the World anniversary of Fatima is a powerful thing. who belongs to Our Lady of Lebanon Apostolate of Fatima (WAF) who led a We’re remembering what happened in in Lewisville. “They recitation of the Rosary for world peace. 1917 to Jacinta, Francisco, and Lucy,” said know the story. We home school so they Since then it has traveled with a custo- Celestina Icholu, a global Rosary partic- have studied it for a whole year now.” dian across the globe as an ambassador ipant dressed in the native garb of her Bishop Olson said welcoming the of hope and returned to the United birthplace, Nigeria. Icholu said she was Fatima statue to the diocese on the 100th Nations for one day, May 13, 2017, to happy to represent her African culture and anniversary was a “beautiful reminder of mark the anniversary of the first Fatima “honor Mary in a special way.” how much God loves us and how much apparition. Kathryn Weitz attended the Our Lady loves us.” According to Joan Alix, WAF event Mass for Jacinta and Never take faith for granted, he cau- coordinator, the relics — which include a Francisco last May in Fatima. The St. tioned Our Lady of Fatima parishioners. piece of the holm-oak tree on which the Elizabeth Ann Seton parishioner wasn’t “Be strong in the face of temptation Blessed Mother appeared — “are used for surprised by the overwhelming turnout at and resolute in the face of persecution healing and hope especially for youth or the cathedral to pray before the statue. and mockery,” the bishop advised. “For anyone in need of healing.” “She’s our mother. Mary loves us so Our Lady shows us Jesus. Her message The centennial celebration of the last much she gives us messages of hope,” of Fatima remains while [Bolshevik- apparition in Fatima also was observed Weitz said. “She wants us to pray, fast, and Communist] Stalin is gone.”

22 NorthTexasCatholic.org Energize and Engage How the grassroots Encuentro is helping shape the next generation of ministry leaders

Alex Benavides is seen during an Encuentro meeting at St. Maria Goretti Parish. (NTC photo/Jayme Shedenhelm) Director of Hispanic Ministries Joel Rodriguez (standing) helps lead a V Encuentro workshop at Holy Name of Jesus Parish. (NTC photo/Adrean Indolos)

By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen the bishops are saying is the largest evangelization effort in U.S. he people who gathered history. inside the Immaculate An initiative of the U.S. Heart of Mary parish Conference of Catholic Bishops, hallT in Fort Worth this summer V Encuentro (fifth Encounter in represent the rich diversity English) will discern the needs, found in the diocese’s Hispanic thoughts, aspirations, and faith community. practices of the fast-growing Energetic high school teens, population of Hispanic and Latino young professionals, active senior Catholics in the nation. citizens, and hard-working The goal? To find ways in immigrants came together for a meeting of V Encuentro — what Continued on Page 24

DIOCESE November / December 2017 23 From Page 23 The Encuentro which the U.S. Church can better serve the Hispanic community and prepare Timeline Hispanics so they can better respond to the New Evangelization. Organizers hope the end result will encourage leadership, Over the summer, small group communities met at increase vocations, and inspire young parishes throughout the diocese. The groups discerned, people to embrace the Church. reflected on their faith, and received catechesis over More than half of millennial several weekly or biweekly meetings. Catholics, born in 1982 or later, identify as Hispanic or Latino, according to a study commissioned by U.S. bishops. Reaching out to this demographic is a priority because young Hispanics will have an impact on shaping the future of From September to late October, parish Encuentro the Catholic Church in America. groups participate in a final, day-long encuentro. “I’m excited about this program. The Participants put together feedback and ideas that will faith of Hispanic people here is strong so be presented at the diocesan encuentro. we have to pass that faithfulness on to the next generation,” said Carlos Espinoza, who leads one of two V Encuentro classes in Spanish at Immaculate Heart of Mary. Albert Rios, a middle school religious Encuentro groups from 35 parishes in the diocese education teacher, facilitates similar come together for a day of workshops and leadership discussions centered on the V Encuentro training on Nov. 5. The diocesan Encuentro is expected theme, “Missionary Disciples: Witnesses to draw 1,000 people to Arlington Convention Center. of God’s Love,” with English-speaking parishioners. Young Hispanics have a lot of questions and are often confused about faith issues, Espinoza added. He counsels married parishioners along with his wife, The Diocese of Fort Worth, being in episcopal Region Maria. X, will send delegates to the regional encuentro in San “It’s important to make sure their Antonio from April 13-15, 2018. faith is solid. So many families are in crisis today,” he explained. “Encuentro will help us find solutions to help them and involve the next generation.” V Encuentro is a four-year process that begins at the grassroots level in The National V Encuentro will be held Sept. 20-23, parishes and concludes with a national 2018 in Grapevine at the Gaylord Texan. More than conference hosted by the Diocese of 3,500 attendees are expected, including 80 bishops. Fort Worth in September 2018. Before delegates from across the country converge at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, representatives will study and review recommendations and findings that emerge from local conversations at Finally, a post-national Encuentro will include publishing diocesan and regional meetings. Results a working document sharing ways to implement what will be published in a working document was learned during the four-year process. after the National Encuentro. Approximately 5,000 parishes are part of the process with 35 from the Diocese of Fort Worth.

24 NorthTexasCatholic.org The Encuentro English-speaking group at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Fort Worth. Clockwise from left: Saul Castro; Dora Lopez; Nelcy Cardenas; Fr. Alejandro Lopez Chavez, CORC; group leader Albert Rios; Sofia Frias; and Ashlie Frias. (NTC photo/Donna Ryckaert)

contributing to the changing face of the American Church. V Encuentro addresses this trend, the director said. “The Catholic liturgy is beautiful and perfect. What we need to understand better is how can we communicate this to our young adults,” he continued. “How can we communicate God’s mercy and love through the liturgy so they participate more and not feel excluded?” Energizing young people is important but only one aspect of V Encuentro, according to Nelcy Cardenas, an Immaculate Heart of Mary youth minister. “That’s why our pastor asked people from a variety of backgrounds — Eucharistic ministers, liturgical ministers, parish organizations — to get involved so we can address the needs of everybody,” she explained. Generationally, Hispanics are different and their priorities reflect that reality. “Our culture is different depending on whether you’ve been here a while or just arrived,” observed the retreat organizer. “We have to find a balance to help every parishioner.” Celso Duran heard about the Encuentro movement long before he was invited to attend a session at Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Fort Worth. He believes encouraging others to become more involved in the Church is the duty of every Catholic. “The Church needs so much help and having these meetings will convince others to participate more,” the catechist said, Joel Rodriguez, diocesan director of Hispanic Ministries, explaining the work of a missionary . expects V Encuentro to build unity and integrate more “That’s our job as Catholics.” Hispanics into the Church. The first Encuentro, held in 1972, The conversations he has with young Hispanic adults help him helped acquaint the Church with Hispanics moving into the understand why so many 20-somethings fall away from the faith. U.S. “I have talked to many young people and it’s amazing “This is the fifth one,” he pointed out. “Today, it’s the things they believe about the environment and politics. been petitioned by the USCCB in order to understand the They believe everything except the [teachings of the] Catholic generations of Hispanics in the U.S., to know their needs Church,” he said emphatically. but also the gifts they bring to the Church. As Catholics who Their attitude is “seeing is believing.” happen to be Hispanic, we come with a colorful culture and “We have to allow them to ‘see’ Jesus Christ,” he added. “As background. We come to serve.” Christians, we have to make Him present. We have to make sure V Encuentro asks participants to act as missionaries by they can ‘see’ Him through us.” bringing the Gospel message to the peripheries of Church and Although V Encuentro discussions focus on strengthening society — the vulnerable, excluded, and fearful. That includes the Hispanic/Latino presence in the Church, all U.S. Catholics second, third, and fourth generations Hispanics as well as in faith communities are invited to participate, and all Catholics immigrants. are expected to be impacted in a positive way. “The peripheries in 1972 were factories and agricultural A small group from St. Maria Goretti Parish in Arlington workers. Today it’s professionals,” Rodriguez added. “They’ve meets twice a month to read the study guide and share insights assimilated into North American culture yet haven’t let go about bringing people back into the faith. Father Dennis Gang, of their Hispanic heritage and culture. The Church wants to TOR, leads the sessions. understand how it can pastor and serve them.” “Right now Encuentro is for the Hispanic community but Many young adult Hispanics are joining the ranks of lessons learned can help other church groups,” suggested Alex Americans who reject any organized religion. Researchers refer Benavides, an SMG parishioner and active St. Vincent de Paul to them as the “nones.” Society volunteer. Furthermore, new immigrants — coming not just “We should all be concerned with helping others who have from Mexico, but Central and South America — are also gone astray. After all, we are all children of God.”

DIOCESE November / December 2017 25 Photos courtesy of theArchdiocese of Oklahoma CityArchives

26 NorthTexasCatholic.org COVER STORY November / December 2017 27 The Shepherd Who Didn’t Run of Stanley Rother: Oklahoma priest, Guatemalan missionary, and first American martyr

By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen

“Father Stanley Rother the diocesan priest from Oklahoma “bless- beginning of the semester and everyone ed.” In December 2016, Pope Francis rec- was excited to attend this liturgy and be will become a saint ognized the missionary as the first martyr there when someone is made blessed,” born in the United States. said Jenny Lynn Pelzel, a St. John Paul II for our time and our Witnessing the proclamation were Fr. campus minister. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime Rother’s younger siblings, Tom Rother opportunity.” place,” Father Jack McKone and Sister Marita Rother, ASC, who Fr. McKone joined Father Tim remembers her brother as a self-giving Thompson and Father Khoi Tran from predicted. person who didn’t relish the limelight. the Diocese of Fort Worth in concelebrat- “He just wanted to be out there doing ing the Mass with Cardinal Amato and The St. pastor feels the work,” she told reporters before the other priests and bishops. a special connection with the mission- ceremony. “Even if this [beatification] is North Texans feel a special affinity ary priest who was beatified Sept. 23 the end of it, he’s a saint to the rest of us.” for Fr. Rother, who grew up in a German- in Oklahoma City. Both men lived in Cardinal Amato told the spirit-filled Catholic rural community not unlike Guatemala and loved the people there. Fr. arena of worshippers that Fr. Rother chose Muenster or Lindsay. McKone continues to lead mission trips to love over hate. “We feel a closeness,” Fr. McKone the Central American country. Fr. Rother’s “His martyrdom fills us with sadness pointed out. “For a lot of us, martyrs are ministry ended with his July 28, 1981 but also gives the joy of admiring the kind- abstractions. They’re remote in history, murder. ness, generosity, and courage of a great culture, and language. Relating to them “I think every priest, if they reflect on man of faith,” he stated in his homily. is difficult. But here is someone who was their vocation story, has models of priest- “The 13 years spent as a missionary in one of us. He was an ordinary man who hood that are inspiring. Fr. Rother is one Guatemala will always be remembered became a martyr.” of the most powerful ones,” Fr. McKone as the glorious epic of a martyr of Christ, Fr. Rother’s enormous courage and explained. “Look how much he gave to his an authentic, lighted torch of hope for the commitment to his parishioners in the people for the love of Christ! It was total Church and the world.” poor mountain village of Santiago Atitlan dedication.” Students from Midwestern State cost him his life. Answering the call of Approximately 20,000 people — University in Wichita Falls and St. John Pope John XXIII, who wanted pasto- including 52 bishops and cardinals, 288 Paul II University Parish in Denton ral outreach to the Church in Central priests, and 137 deacons — crowded traveled to Oklahoma City to participate America, the young priest joined a team into the Cox Convention Center to hear in the Beatification Mass — an event tradi- of clergy and laity at a mission established Cardinal Angelo Amato, prefect of the tionally held in Rome. Congregation of Saints’ Causes, declare “We talked about Fr. Rother at the Continued on Page 28

Photos courtesy of theArchdiocese of Oklahoma CityArchives

26 NorthTexasCatholic.org COVER STORY November / December 2017 27 From Page 27 by what was then known as the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. For the next 13 years of his life, “Padre Francisco,” as he was called by the native Tz’utujil Indians, worked alongside the villagers in the fields teaching them techniques he learned while growing up on the family farm in Okarche, Oklahoma. He also began the process of translating the New Kurkowski-Gillen photo/Joan NTC Testament into their native tongue. “This priest, who flunked Latin in the seminary, learned the language of the indigenous people so they could hear the word of Christ in their own language,” said Pedro Moreno, a parish- ioner at St. Thomas the Apostle Church who works as director of Hispanic min- istry for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. “This man was an evangelizer — a disciple — and he went out to make more disciples. And that irked people in important places back then.” When the former farm boy wasn’t using his manual labor skills to repair the rectory floor or fix a truck, he helped build a 20-bed hospital to improve healthcare for the impoverished Indians. To learn more about the Tz’utujil, he would visit the home of a different parish family each week and share a simple meal with them. Unsanitary conditions in the dirt-floor dwellings often made him ill and required treatment for infectious hepatitis on one occasion. Archbishop of Oklahoma City “He also began a [Catholic] Paul S. Coakley and Dr. Andrea radio station,” Moreno added. Ambrosi, postulator of the cause, “Through the radio station, he pro- address Cardinal Amato with the claimed the word of God beyond request for beatification. They the parish borders.” stand beneath a banner of Blessed Fr. Rother lived in Guatemala Stanley Rother at his beatification during a 1971 to 1981 civil war that Mass. pitted the militarist government against guerrillas. The Catholic Church was caught in the middle of the conflict. “Missionaries were helping the indigenous Mayan Indians — the lowest of the low in society — by giving them a written language and forming co-ops

28 NorthTexasCatholic.org COVER STORY November / December 2017 29 so farmers could earn more money for their crops,” 22-year-old education major at Midwestern State University in explained Maria Ruiz Scaperlanda, a freelance jour- Wichita Falls, visited the room where Fr. Rother was martyred nalist and author of the biography, The Shepherd Who for the faith. She was part of an eight-member team of campus Didn’t Run. “When that happens in the middle of a ministry students who took a mission trip to Guatemala in May. civil war, the Church becomes a target. Everything “We heard Fr. Stanley’s story beforehand and stayed with was labeled subversive.” Madre Ana Maria, the sister who was in the complex the night Missions in the highlands of Guatemala, started he was murdered. So it’s a wonderful experience to be here with large numbers of lay people and clergy, dwin- today,” said the college senior who attended the Beatification dled to one or two priests. People began to disap- Mass with 17 other students and her mother, Lisa Ayala. “Seeing pear. Journalists, farmers, and teachers were dragged all these people celebrating the Eucharist and Fr. Stanley’s life is from their homes and murdered or kidnapped. Fr. beautiful.” Rother would scour the countryside retrieving the Another Midwestern State University student, Jose dead bodies of parishioners and then care for the Gonzalez, decided to learn Spanish after hearing about Fr. widows and orphans left behind. Rother’s troubles with language. Eventually his name, and the name of his “If it wasn’t for his inspiration and courage to do what he associate pastor, Father Pedro Bocel, appeared on did, I wouldn’t embrace my role as a young Hispanic person,” a death list. Fr. Rother returned to Oklahoma in explained the 24-year-old psychology major who wants to January but promised to spend Holy Week with his become a counselor for Spanish-speaking families. “A lot of us parishioners in Santiago Atitlan. are farmers and he was a farmer. I think that’s another reason “He was here a couple of months but longed to people can relate to and embrace what he did.” go back,” said Scaperlanda, a Norman, Oklahoma In his apostolic letter, Pope Francis set Fr. Rother’s feast day resident who first heard about the missionary’s as July 28 — the anniversary of his death in 1981 and “the day bravery from her children and their Catholic school of his heavenly birth.” Beatification is a declaration by the pope projects. “[Fr. Rother] would say, ‘those are my that someone lived a holy life and is a good example to follow. It’s people. The shepherd cannot run at the first sign of the final step before sainthood. danger.’ He knew he was going back to danger and “Pray to him. Ask him for his intercession and look at his mod- death.” el of service,” Fr. McKone urged. “I think that’s something every Although the pastor beefed priest and every Catholic should do.” up security by locking doors and changing his sleep habits, More on Blessed Stanley violence came to the Santiago Surrounded by flowers from Rother on Page 30 Atitlan compound in the Guatemala, Cardinal Angelo Amato, middle of the night. Three representative of Pope Francis, militants broke into the read the Apostolic Letter. He said rectory, found the pastor in Blessed Stanley Rother invites us a corner utility room, and a “to be like him as witnesses and struggle ensued. Protecting missionaries of the Gospel. Society the Carmelite sisters, whose needs these sowers of goodness.” convent was across the courtyard, Fr. Rother never called out for help. Two gunshots, shattering the night’s stillness, ended the priest’s life. Rattled from their sleep, the sisters ran to find Padre Francisco lying in a pool of blood. Spatters of his blood remain on the wall and floors today. Dani Ayala, a

NTC photo/Joan Kurkowski-Gillen

28 NorthTexasCatholic.org COVER STORY November / December 2017 29 Fr. Stanley Rother, Firsthand

By Jenara Kocks Burgess

rancisco Bocel, a long-time resident of Wichita Falls, Bocel also talked of the martyr’s generosity. was 18 when he met Father Stanley Rother and worked “He was there for the poor people who don’t have no with him for a year in Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala. money. He give to them. He give them school, he give them FHe remembers riding with the American missionary priest hospital. Everything. Because the government doesn’t do noth- to the different parishes he served. Francisco’s brother Father ing for them. People just loved him so much,” Bocel said. Pedro Bocel also worked with Fr. Rother in Santiago Atitlan. Immediately after Fr. Rother was killed, Bocel remembers What he remembers most about Blessed Stanley Rother is the Carmelite sisters ringing the church bell. “Next thing his kindness. we know, the whole place is full of people. They stay for a “He was a nice, nice person,” Bocel said. “People invite long time. They didn’t go nowhere because they love him so him to eat. He always goes. No matter how poor the person is. much,” he said. He would sit with them, talk to them, smile. All the kids were “He was a good priest. He gave his life for the people,” he always around him.” said.

Quotes from Fr. Stanley Rother

“The shepherd cannot run at the first sign of danger. Pray for us that we may be a sign of the love of Christ for our people.”

“For myself I am a Christian, for the sake of others I am a priest.”

“If it is my destiny that I should give my life here, then so be it . . . . I don’t want to desert these people.”

Fr. David Monahan/CourtesyFr. ofArchdiocese the of Oklahoma ArchivesCity

30 NorthTexasCatholic.org 30 NorthTexasCatholic.org November / December 2017 31 To Accept or to Reject?

o most people, the duty of medi- Oftentimes, this expresses itself in the What should we do cine is to fight illness and by exten- medical arena as a fierce fight for the when faced with difficult sion, its companion, death. slender odds of living longer rather than TBut what happens when it can’t? And preparing the patient — and their family end-of-life decisions? are there times when it shouldn’t? Are — for the much more probable outcome: there times when the proposed interven- death. An expert speaks. tion’s unintended consequences outweigh “In a war that you cannot win, you its benefits? don’t want a general who fights to the By Juan Guajardo Father Tad Pacholczyk, bioethics point of total annihilation. You don’t want expert and director of education for Custer. You want Robert E. Lee — some- the National Catholic Bioethics Center, one who knew how to fight for territory recently answered those questions during when he could and how to surrender when the local “Do No Harm” conference he couldn’t. Someone who understood on end-of-life issues and the Catholic that the damage is greatest if all you do Church’s teachings related to them. is fight to the bitter end,” Fr. Tad quoted The September conference was spon- from Dr. Atul Gawande’s 2010 New Yorker sored in part by the Respect Life Office of article, “What Should Medicine Do When the Diocese of Fort Worth. It Can’t Save You?” While there’s nothing wrong with FIGHT TO THE DEATH? medicine — or a terminal patient’s family Fr. Tad said we live in a society — looking for the small possibility of that largely denies suffering and death overcoming that diagnosis, sometimes “we and avoids the end-of-life conversation. need to focus our energy on preparing for

32 NorthTexasCatholic.org death,” he said. Ethical-Religious Directives The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Ethical and Religious Directives on Catholic Health Care Services provides guidance in those on End-of-Life Care situations. In it, the bishops state the “truth that life is a precious 56. gift from God,” that “we’re not the owners of our lives and, A person has a moral obligation to use ordinary or hence, do not have absolute power over life. We have a duty to proportionate means of preserving his or her life. Proportionate preserve our life and to use it for the glory of God, but the duty to means are those that in the judgment of the patient offer a preserve life is not absolute.” reasonable hope of benefit and do not entail an excessive In other words, if a life-prolonging medical procedure is burden or impose excessive expense on the family or the “insufficiently beneficial or excessively burdensome,” we may community. reject it, Fr. Tad explained. 57. But being good stewards of the gift of life, especially in end- A person may forgo extraordinary or disproportionate of-life situations, is oftentimes more difficult and nuanced than means of preserving life. Disproportionate means are those imagined. that in the patient’s judgment do not offer a reasonable hope “This stuff’s not easy on first glance,” Fr. Tad said. “You’ve of benefit or entail an excessive burden, or impose excessive got to consult with some experts. You’ve got to have some input expense on the family or the community. from others, maybe from some clergy. You’ve got to spend some 58. time on this, and if you do that and bring it to prayer, the gray In principle, there is an obligation to provide patients with shrinks to a line. And you see where that line is between right food and water, including medically assisted nutrition and and wrong and then you end up choosing in a good way for hydration for those who cannot take food orally.... Medically your mom or dad or whoever it is who is dying.” assisted nutrition and hydration become morally optional If we’re generous in that due-diligence, “we’ll definitely find when they cannot reasonably be expected to prolong life or when they would be “excessively burdensome for the that clarity because, remember, the Lord God does not leave us patient or [would] cause significant physical discomfort, for in some kind of a vacuum in these hugely important moments example resulting from complications in the use of the means of our lives where our loved ones, or we ourselves, are dying,” employed....” he added.

PROPORTIONATE AND DISPROPORTIONATE To read the rest of the U.S. Bishops’ Ethical and Religious Directives on One key criterion to look at when making difficult Catholic Health Care Services, visit: treatment decisions is the distinction between proportion- USCCB.org/about/doctrine ate and disproportionate means. Context like age, reason- able chance of success, risks and side effects, physical and emotional state of the sick person, and expense are factors in determining whether an intervention or surgery is proportion- experimental with only a 1-in-300 chance that it’s going to ate, and therefore necessary, or disproportionate and therefore benefit a person?” he said. “As much of that information as you optional. can get ahold of upfront will be very, very important to have.” “If something is proportionate or ordinary we say it is required, you need to do this to be a good steward,” Fr. Tad said. CALLED TO PRUDENCE “On the other hand, if something is disproportionate, or extraor- By considering an intervention’s benefits and risks, an indi- dinary, it’s optional. And please understand what that means vidual (whether that’s the patient himself or the proxy) can find when we say it’s optional. When you say, ‘I am not doing that sur- clarity in making a judgment. gery because I believe it is disproportionate’... you do not commit “And notice that last word: judgment,” Fr. Tad said. “What any sin. It’s very important to be clear on that.” we are doing here, what we’re seeking to do is to make a good Ethical-Religious Directives 56-58 in the bishops’ docu- prudential judgment,” that is, a decision made with knowledge of ment shine additional light on the question of proportional vs. right and wrong. disproportional and how burden and benefit play a role in the “To the extent that we [practice] the due diligence that I was decision-making process — especially important since there is talking about, invest ourselves wholeheartedly into the struggle, no “Letterman Top 10” list of extraordinary or disproportion- bring it to prayer, and exercise that virtue of prudence, we can ate interventions, Fr. Tad explained. Rather, the ordinary or very much be at peace when that day finally does come that our extraordinary status of an intervention depends on the “con- loved one dies,” and know the decision was appropriate, he said. crete details of this patient, in this bed, at this moment, with this “Later when you die and hopefully meet your mom and your constellation of issues going on. So it’s context dependent.” dad again, they’ll be able to say to you, ‘You took good care of “So they’re offering you a surgery and you’re saying to me. Thank you for what you did as I was dying. It was a good yourself, ‘Well what are the chances this will work?’ Is this what death.’ What a beautiful thing that is. So, prudence in making we call the standard of care, or is this perhaps something highly that good judgment is our call.”

FEATURES November / December 2017 33 The Domestic Church

Your children are racehorses, not Legos By David Mills

ast week our four children were different people. That’s something we a combined 91 years that your children at home and my wife away. I know in theory, but it’s surprisingly hard are who they are. They’re wired the way found myself asking all the old to accept in real life. they’re wired. Our driven child pushed Lquestions: The world gives us all sorts of images through everything as a toddler. Our Why is the bag of almonds THERE? of the perfect family, which is probably observant child watched everything How can so few people drink so much milk? nothing like yours. The kids make St. carefully from his crib. Our empathetic How can so few people dirty so many Francis look like a thug. They’re always child cared for others as soon as she could dishes? amazingly good looking. They turn off do anything on her own. We could also How can anyone stay in the shower so long? lights and they take two-minute showers, see from toddlerhood what would prove And use so many towels? and always know where their shoes are. to be their characteristic faults. Do I look like their mom? They clean the lint filter. A lot of parents think of their Why won’t they turn off a light? And they never suffer from a mental children as if they were made of plastic. What is so hard to understand in “clean the illness. They’re never damaged. They We think we can mold them, make them lint filter when you use the dryer?” don’t grow up sinners with sinful parents. exactly what we want to them to be. We Where did they get the idea I keep track of They never fail. can’t. They’re unique human beings their shoes? The world tells us we can mold our created by God through the union of Their socks? The hat they wear once a year? children and create the perfect family if their mother and father. They’re gifts The peanut butter? only we try hard enough and do the right we’re given to nurture and guide. Do they think I’m made of money? things. A big Christian industry says the They’re more like race horses born to Having all the kids around reminds same thing. run. We can feed them, encourage them, me of a basic fact: Families blend very I’ve learned from being a father for help them to learn to run as well as they

34 NorthTexasCatholic.org Parenting Tips from For Your Marriage

o what happens when children become a Ssource of difficulty in a marriage? Following are some rules of thumb for the most common issues that parents face in raising children: can, try to correct their faults. We can’t turn them into draft horses just because we want an animal to pull the wagon. God CHILDREN’S NEEDS VS. SPOUSE’S gives you a race horse, you raise a race horse. That’s your job. Training horses takes a lot of patience, time, and sacrifice. NEEDS: To keep your spouse a priority, family It requires looking very closely at the horse to see what he is and life educators recommend daily affirmations (like what he can do. It’s not putting together a spaceship with legos. hugs and praise), a weekly date, or an annual It’s not something you do to a plan with a guaranteed result. getaway (without the children), among other Probably a lot of us aren’t very good at raising race examples. horses, or children. What we do we do? Pope Francis told parents: Do what Mary and Joseph did. “Welcome Jesus, DEALING WITH WORRIES ABOUT listen to Him, speak with Him, guard Him, protect Him, CHILDREN: Worrying and fretting about your grow with Him.” children come with the job and can prompt need- This isn’t an easy answer. It puts pressure on us parents. ed action. Some parents, however, “over worry” Having a plan to follow would be much easier. The great and become “helicopter parents,” hovering over Catholic writer G. K. Chesterton said children learn what their children. Remember, you are responsible we tell them by our lives, not so much by what we say. “It is not the things you say which children respect,” he said. for the process you use in raising your children “When you say things, they very commonly laugh and do the — not the outcome. When all else fails (and opposite. It is the things you assume that really sink into them. hopefully before) turn it over to God. It is the things you forget even to teach that they learn.” This, said Francis, “is the great mission of the family: BALANCING WORK AND FAMILY to make room for Jesus who is coming, to welcome Jesus Although responsible parents obviously need an in the family, in each member: children, husband, wife, income, how much is enough? Once you’ve met grandparents. Jesus is there. Welcome Him there, in order that the basic family needs, often your child will ben- He grow spiritually in the family.” efit from your presence at home even if it means In other words, live the Catholic life as well as you can. You cutting back on work hours or taking a less want to be a better parent? Go to Mass. Get to confession. stressful job. If you’re missing more family dinners than you make in a week, that can be a warning sign to readjust your schedule and priorities. David Mills writes for Aleteia, Ethika Politika, Commonweal, and other publications. He is the author of Discovering Mary and former executive Reprinted with permission from “For Your Marriage,” an editor of First Things. initiative of the USCCB. Visit ForYourMarriage.org for more advice on marriage and family life. November / December 2017 35 LECTIO DIVINA

Called to be Children of God

Start by reading the background below and then use the steps on the right to reflect on the Scripture verse. Then read Callie’s meditation, reflecting on it slowly.

BACKGROUND

All Saints’ Day, also known as All Hallows’ Day, is martyrs and saints there. Pope Gregory III fixed a solemnity celebrated in honor of all known and the anniversary for November 1. unknown saints. The celebration of both All Saints’ Day and The feast day is celebrated not only by All Souls’ Day (which was also instituted by Pope Catholics but Anglicans, Methodists, and other Check out our Boniface IV) stems from the Catholic Christian Protestant traditions. Many Eastern Catholics week-long “Martyrs belief that the Church Triumphant (those in celebrate the feast either during the Easter season of the Church” Heaven) have a strong spiritual bond with the or right after Pentecost. feature, starting Church Militant (those still alive on earth) and can But for the Roman Catholic Church, the Oct. 25 by visiting appeal to God through their intercession. celebration actually begins with Vespers on the NorthTexasCatholic. But the two feast days shouldn’t be confused. org/features-news evening of Oct. 31 and continues until the end of All Souls’ Day, unlike All Saints, is dedicated to Nov. 1, prior to All Souls’ Day. those faithful souls who have The earliest observance of a feast for “all died but not yet reached heaven. saints” began with an early fourth-century commemoration of all martyrs. Even before then, the faithful were accustomed to solemnizing the anniversary of a martyr’s death for Christ. Callie Nowlin, MTS, is a convert turned Director Later, Pope Boniface IV took up that banner and established of Religious Education, catechist, and blogger with a the feast in 609 A.D. when he consecrated the Pantheon to the passion for Scripture and helping others Blessed Virgin Mary, and interred the bones of hundreds of on their journey toward Christ.

36 NorthTexasCatholic.org Scripture texts in this work are taken from THE SCRIPTURE the New American Bible, revised edition Second Reading for Nov. 1, 2017 © 2010, 1991, 1986, Solemnity of All Saints 1970 of Christian Doctrine, Beloved: Washington, D.C. and are See what love the Father has used by permission of the copyright owner. All bestowed on us that we may be called Rights Reserved. No part the children of God. of the New American Yet so we are. Bible may be reproduced The reason the world does not know in any form without us is that it did not know him. permission in writing Beloved, we are God’s children now; from the copyright what we shall be has not yet been owner. revealed. We do know that when it is revealed we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. Everyone who has this hope based on him makes himself pure, as he is pure.

— 1 John 3:1-3 Solemnity of All Saints November 1, 2017

REFLECTION person they are set apart from the world for the person and mission of God. This “See what love the Father has bestowed is also why the objects we use in the LECTIO on us that we may be called the children liturgy are to be beautiful, of excep- of God,” St. John writes in his first letter. tional quality, and certainly used for no First you deliberately read the passage, Saints live deeply and purely this identity other purpose than the liturgy. As such noting phrases that move your heart. as children of God. This is the mission we should not be surprised when the and the calling of the saints: to show children of God are not recognized by the Father’s love and to be a witness to the world. In fact it is to be expected, for MEDITATIO the invitation of the Father to become as children of God we are set apart from adopted children. the world. Secondly, ponder these words and ask For the rest of October, the NTC will To be sure, it is great to be in a family God in prayer, “What do you desire be looking at various saints and martyrs so large and diverse in its multitude. But that I hear in this?” in the Catholic Church. We will be high- more so this feast allows us to honor and lighting different children in this family truly celebrate and petition the prayers whom we call heroic brothers and sisters of every saint known and especially those ORATIO in Christ. Yet we know that it is impos- unknown in the body of Christ. But Third, speak back to the Lord as your sible to discuss, or even name, all of the more than that, wonderfully proclaimed heart is moved. saints throughout history, all of those who in this feast is that we are all called, by make up the number of the “great cloud name, to be children of God; to be saints, of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1). That is why to be unrecognizable or unacceptable the Church in her wisdom has set aside to the world and its standards. It is my CONTEMPLATIO this wonderful feast, that all her children personal prayer to be numbered among Finally, be still trusting in his presence. who honor the Father in holiness may be these unknown saints, wholly given to Simply rest in the Word of God. remembered. God and his service but hidden in the When we consecrate an object or multitude of those who love Him.

November / December 2017 37 ESSENTIALS OF THE FAITH Does catechesis have a place within evangelization?

hirty-eight years ago, St. develop the premise that catechesis resonate with the person receiving John Paul II explained “the is not a primary component for a it. This becomes the first teaching definitive aim of catechesis is conversion of heart and that catechesis moment where we open the door to toT put people not only in touch but in is not evangelization. They justify the reality of Jesus Christ and our communion, in intimacy, with Jesus this position through an inaccurate place within the Church. Hence, our Christ; only He can lead us to the love notion that catechesis only involves teaching efforts are first and foremost of the Father in the Spirit and make us handing on information (doctrine), evangelistic. But our evangelical share in the life of the Holy answering questions to efforts are not always catechetical. The ” (Catechesis in Our Time, clarify misconceptions, evangelist accompanies the individual 5). and memorizing important and walks with him through a gradual However, some might aspects of the faith, i.e., the process of conversion culminating in an interpret John Paul’s words Ten Commandments or the initiatory relationship with Jesus Christ. to be incomplete and identify beatitudes and nothing more. The catechist (teacher) applies the same evangelization as the primary In an irony of ironies, the approach of accompaniment but with vehicle to guide someone into Catechism describes how “quite the important caveat of teaching the Marlon De La Torre communion and intimacy early on, the name catechesis person how everything connects in with Jesus Christ instead of catechesis. was given to the totality of the Church’s relation to the teachings of the Church, A ministerial trend in evangelization efforts to make disciples, to help men i.e., catechesis. is that Christ and the Apostles simply believe that Jesus is the Son of God so The Catechism reminds us: evangelized (proclaimed the Gospel) that believing they might have life in his and only taught (catechized) when name, and to educate and instruct them Whoever is called “to teach Christ” must necessary. Sacred Scripture reveals a in this life, thus building up the body of first seek “the surpassing worth of knowing different story. Christ directly taught Christ” (4). Christ Jesus”; he must suffer “the loss of the faith as the means of evangelization St. John Paul II reminds us all things . . .” in order to “gain Christ (Mt 6:25; 24:1-14; Lk 14:15; 20:1-8). catechesis is built on elements of the and be found in Him” and “to know the Church’s pastoral mission that have a power of his resurrection, and to share Catechesis as an Afterthought? catechetical aspect, for example, the his sufferings, becoming like Him in his Several interesting encounters initial proclamation of the Gospel to death, that if possible he may attain the with evangelists of goodwill suggest arouse faith, apologetics (examination resurrection from the dead” (428). catechesis is viewed as mere decorum. of the reasons for beliefs), experience These faithful stewards tout that of Christian living, celebration of Catechesis has a definitive place evangelizing someone is all you need for the sacraments, integration into the within the evangelization process a complete conversion of faith. Once, ecclesial community, and apostolic and because it involves proclaiming Jesus a colleague described catechesis as a missionary witness (Catechesis in Our Christ crucified. It provides the for- mere formality in the overall journey Time, 18). mational nourishment necessary to of faith. Thus, teaching the faith rested answer the “how” and “why” questions with an effective evangelization plan Are You a Preacher or a Teacher? of our faith and our place with Christ and any catechesis would simply fill Are we called to be evangelists in this world. the gaps where necessary. In another or catechists? The simple answer is instance, an acquaintance saw no need both. The person who desires to share to catechize at all — everything can be and teach the faith must possess both 32accomplished through evangelization components to effectively proclaim Marlon De La Torre, is the Director of and discipleship. Jesus Christ crucified. Catechesis for the Diocese of Fort Worth and These examples are not anomalies. The transmission of faith requires writes articles on catechesis, evangelization, and Over the last several years, I have seen telling a compelling story that will Christian spirtuality at KnowingIsDoing.com

38 NorthTexasCatholic.org GROWING AS A CHRISTIAN

Moments that rock our world

ost of our day-to-day life is still meandering through. It is time for my The journey from birth to death has filled with moments that pass father and step-mother to move into an many hallmark moments. For me, God us by with little to no notice. independent living community. They are is the constant in each of them and the MBut, some moments come along not quite at the stage where they Church has a way of guiding me through that rock our world, change the need assisted living, but living the labyrinth. From the white baptismal direction of our lives, or are on their own is increasingly garment to the white pall that drapes a once-in-a-lifetime experiences. worrisome. Helping them clean coffin at the Mass of Christian Burial, our This past summer within and pack their house to put it faith, and our God, walks beside us every the span of 10 days I had two on the market, visit possible new step of the way. of these big moments, followed independent living facilities, One goal of the life of faith is that our quickly by another life moment Jeff Hedglen giving away their tired auto- life and our faith are intertwined. St. John most of us will face. mobiles, and helping them face Paul II said, “In order to speak of conver- At the end of June my oldest sister this new chapter in their lives is a journey sion, the gap between faith and life must passed away rather unexpectedly from of the unknown, uncomfortable and be bridged” (Ecclesia in America, 26). In one complications of many years of bad unavoidable. sense we fulfill this when we “give our life health. We all knew she was sick, but death Experiencing each of these major to Jesus,” but in another sense we need to was not imminent, at least as far as we life moments has been a bit of emotional invite Jesus into every aspect of our life, so knew. Thus, when the call came that she whiplash. But in the midst of this kaleido- that each moment, whether big or small, is had passed I was shocked. My big sister scope of emotions is a steady ray of light an encounter with the divine. was gone. She is the first of my siblings that holds it all together and continually Yet these moments of life can come to pass and it is really hard to get used to brings meaning and stability to my soul. and go disconnected from our faith or living in a world without the sister who At the time of my sister’s passing and even become a crisis of faith for us. In would rock back-and-forth listening to the niece’s wedding, I posted this on Facebook: these times, it is especially helpful to music in her headphones, would alternate- “Life is full of events, some bring sorrow, remember the many Scripture stories that ly be mad at me or make me laugh, and some bring joy, but they are all a part of remind us that Jesus calms the stormy sea, baked some of the best cookies this side of life, so I strive to journey through each comforts those afraid, and walks the way Betty Crocker. one with as much of myself as I can. I am of suffering, all the way to the cross and I got this news two days before I was standing on John 16:20 this week — ‘You beyond: to resurrection and healing. set to board a plane to Germany for my will grieve, but your grief will be turned niece’s wedding. This wedding was every- into joy.’” thing a wedding should be. It was full of By saying that “I journey through faith and family, food and drink, laughter each one with as much of myself as I and tears, music and dancing, all of which can,” I meant that I want to be as present Jeff Hedglen is the diocesan director of Young was wrapped up in young love tied togeth- as possible in each of these moments. And Adult and Campus Ministry and the primary er with the Eternal Love. my faith in a God who can turn grief into convener of Camp Fort Worth. For more on The last of these life moments I am joy sustains me. Young Adult Ministry, visit Fwyam.org

November / December 2017 39 SEEKING GOD’S PATH

The self-giving love of the cross

very vocation in the Church of our sins and the chance to obtain of vocations within our diocese, Bishop has at its root the call of Jesus eternal life. Olson has recently named five priests Christ. This is particularly true In following the call of Jesus Christ to focus on this ministry. Father Ein the call to the priesthood. to the priesthood, a young Manuel Holguin, Father Matthew The call to the priesthood man states he is willing to Tatyrek, Father Keith Hathaway, and is not a call to self-fulfillment. conform his life to the cross. Father Nghia Nguyen will all serve as Neither is it a path to perfect In following a call to the Vocations Liaisons for our diocese. I happiness in this life. The call priesthood, he begins to lay will be the fifth member of the team, to the priesthood is a call to down his life, to offer his life as overseeing the seminarians and helping follow Jesus Christ particularly a sacrifice, to spend his life in to guide their formation. Over the in conformity to his cross. Fr. Jonathan Wallis loving service to his brothers coming months, you will have the Jesus Christ says, “Take and sisters, serving as an opportunity to hear from each of up your cross daily and follow me.” instrument to lead them to Christ. the liaisons in how they are fostering At the ordination of every priest, the While this may sound difficult, the and developing vocations within our bishop hands a paten holding the bread cross teaches us that self-giving love is diocese. and a chalice containing wine mixed possible. We do not have to spend this The opportunity to follow Jesus with water for the celebration of Mass life seeking our own ends, or living as if Christ is a tremendous gift. May we and states, “Receive the oblation of this life is all there is. The cross opens make a return to God for all the good the holy people, to be offered to God. our eyes to the beauty of sacrifice, He has done for us. Please pray for Understand what you do, imitate what learning that in losing our life we the vocations team as they begin the you celebrate, and conform your life to find it, and in giving our lives to Jesus endeavor of helping men hear and the mystery of the Lord’s cross.” Christ, we receive the source of all life. answer the call of Jesus Christ. Why is the cross so central to the Inviting men to hear and call to the priesthood? Wouldn’t you answer the call of Jesus Christ is the think that focusing on the cross would responsibility of all the members of scare away men from following the call the Church. We must not only pray Ordained to the priesthood in 2007, Father of Jesus Christ? for vocations in general, but pray for Jonathan Wallis, STL, serves as Dean of Men The cross of Jesus Christ speaks specific men, by name, that we believe and Director of Seminarian Formation at of a self-giving love. Jesus Christ took may have a vocation to the priesthood. St. Joseph Seminary College in Covington, up the cross to give his life in ransom We all have a part to play in fostering Louisiana, where 14 men from the diocese for ours. Through his cross, He died vocations. are enrolled in the four-year college seminary for our sins and to offer us forgiveness To aid the fostering and nurturing program. 34

40 NorthTexasCatholic.org DAILY PRAYER LIST

FORT WORTH SEMINARIANS 2017-2018

God our Father, thank you for calling [name] to prepare for the priesthood. Grant him the grace to grow closer to You through daily prayer. Help him form his personality as a credible witness to others. Bless him while he studies Your word and the teachings of the Church, and give him a generous heart to serve Your people. We ask this through Your Son, Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. Amen.

Day of Thank you for your support and generosity, Month please pray for the following.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT To Report Misconduct If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual misconduct by anyone who serves the Church, you may: ․ Call the victim assistance coordinator at (817) 602-5119. ․ Or call the Victim Assistance Hotline (817) 945-9345 and leave a message. To Report Abuse Call the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (Child Protective Services) at (800) 252-5400.

November / December 2017 41 Take 5 with Father

A call of conversion and community NTC photo/Juan Guajardo NTC photo/Juan

HE IS: Father Daniel Kelley, pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Arlington. He was ordained Dec. 9, 1995 and has served at St. John the Apostle Parish in North Richland Hills; Parish in Denton; Holy Angels Parish in Clifton; Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Morgan; and St. George Parish in Fort Worth.

GROWING UP: Converts to Catholicism, his parents raised seven children in the Dallas area, where Fr. Kelley attended Catholic schools.

LEGACY OF SERVICE: He served almost five years in the Fr. Daniel Kelley Air Force, and for two years he was stationed in England doing reconnaissance photography. His family has a longstanding military tradition: his father served in WWII, his grandfather in WWI, and his forefathers in the Revolutionary War. BEST PART OF BEING A PRIEST: Parish life! Fr. Kelley loves celebrating Mass and other sacraments. One recent Sunday THE CALL: During his military service, Fr. Kelley began to at 8:30 a.m. Mass, he baptized the baby of a couple he had consider religious life. After he was discharged, he read The Seven married, then at the 11 a.m. Mass he brought an 87-year-old into Storey Mountain, an autobiography of Trappist Thomas full communion with the Church — “a wonderful ceremony.” Merton. He wondered if God was calling him to become a monk, and he visited several religious communities. A vocations director at VIBRANT PARISHES: Fr. Kelley has enjoyed serving each a monastery suggested he was more suited to be a diocesan priest. parish, but especially remembers fondly the rural parish of Morgan, “a very lively community.” People traveled from five HOOKED ON CONVERSION: The conversion stories he’s counties for Mass and afterwards gathered under pecan trees and heard on EWTN’s program “The Journey Home” have prompted socialized for hours. He appreciates the diversity of St. George him to delve deeper into the early . He’s fascinated and his current assignment, which has families from many by “how Protestants see who we are and what we believe” and countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. He said it’s a “good wonders why “if Catholics believe, why don’t they act like it?” challenge getting cultures to understand each other and work His desire for Catholics to understand and live their faith has with each other.” led him to revamp catechesis at St. Joseph, from Baptism classes to year-round RCIA and adult education offering enormous online IN THE COMMUNITY: Fr. Kelley founded Arlington resources. Mansfield Organizing Strategy, an interfaith organization working to regulate predatory loans, to build relationships A TRAVELING MAN: With Mass kit in hand, Fr. Kelley is between the immigrant community and police, and to advocate the Catholic chaplain for the Texas Rangers and celebrates Mass for the common good. at the ballpark each Sunday home game. A lifelong baseball fan, he said the visiting team and ballpark employees usually attend HIS WISH: For people “to have a real desire, a love to go to Mass, but he has met current players around the facility. Mass.” Fr. Kelley also celebrates Mass regularly for the “wonderful community of nuns” at the Carmelite monastery in Arlington. Interview by Susan Moses

42 NorthTexasCatholic.org Catholic Charities Corner

John Elwell, who serves as CCFW’s Grateful recipient becomes Volunteer Groups and In-Kind Services Manager, said CCFW is already working Christmas Angels donor to coordinate their annual winter outreach programs. The agency is asking individuals, families, and groups to donate and volunteer for the benefit of needy or one Keller resident, mention “I’m forever grateful to Catholic families residing within the Diocese of Fort of the Catholic Charities Fort Charities for all that they do,” said Taylor, Worth. Worth (CCFW) Christmas Angels a parishioner at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton “Our goal is to get parishes of the Fprogram brings a flood of memories and Parish in Keller. “I’ll never forget how they diocese involved in our many volunteer emotions. helped us when we needed them most.” and donation opportunities, particularly “Taylor,” a 22-year-old nurse, said Taylor was a teenager when her father in our seasonal programs,” said Elwell. she is grateful she and her husband are died suddenly, and she, her mother, and “The needs are great. We hope to provide financially stable and will be able to her two preschool-age siblings were soon approximately 200 bags of non-perishable provide a Christmas meal and gifts for facing a bleak holiday season. “Through items through our Thanksgiving Bag their young son this year. She added the Christmas Angels program, I was program, which includes items such as that because of her own life experience, given a bicycle and a winter jacket,” she boxed stuffing and potatoes, canned she will be participating as a donor and recalled. “My little sisters received toys, vegetables, and cranberry sauce.” volunteer in CCFW’s Christmas Angels warm clothes, and shoes. My mom just Help is needed in gathering the and Thanksgiving Bag programs during cried and cried; she was so relieved and items through individual donations and the upcoming holiday season. grateful.” food drives in churches, schools, and workplaces, said Elwell. “We also welcome volunteer assistance in assembling and distributing the bags,” he added. Later in the season, individuals, groups, and families can participate in the Christmas Angels program. “Donors can obtain a needy child’s Christmas list, and bring the items to us by Dec. 11,” said Elwell. “We need volunteers to join us on Catholic Charities’ Fort Worth campus the week of Dec. 11-15, which is when we will be organizing and distributing the gifts.” For more information, email [email protected] or call 817-534-0814.

Helpful elves from Holy Trinity Catholic School in Grapevine organized the school’s Christmas Angels toy drive in 2016. Each year, about 650 children receive gifts through the Christmas Angel program. (Photo Courtesy of CCFW and HTCS)

November / December 2017 43 Around the Diocese Official Assignments for the Diocese of Fort Worth Safe Environment receives BY MOST REV. MICHAEL F. favorable audit OLSON, STD, MA

REV. FRANCISCO ALANIS GONZALEZ, FORT WORTH — An on-site religious education classes learn CORC, new to the Diocese of Fort Worth, has compliance audit of the age-appropriate lessons on per- been appointed as Parochial Vicar at Holy Name of Diocese of Fort Worth’s Safe sonal boundaries and reporting Jesus Parish in Fort Worth, effective Oct. 13, 2017. Environment program found violations. its requirements were not just The diocese submits reports REV. ERIC GRONER, without prejudice implemented, but embraced by and documentation to the audi- to his assignment as Pastor at St. Rita Parish in Fort parishes and schools. tors each year, and Worth, has been appointed as Chaplain, for the Fort A third party every three years, Worth Catholic Committee on Scouting, effective audit firm visited an on-site audit is Sept. 1, 2017. several parishes and conducted. schools to review The positive REV. KEITH HATHAWAY, without all aspects of the audit encouraged prejudice to his assignment as Chaplain of Notre Safe Environment Mathews and others Dame Catholic School in Wichita Falls, has been program and ensure involved with the appointed as Vocations Liaison, Office of Vocations, compliance with Safe Environment effective Sept. 1, 2017. the United States Richard Mathews program, but they Conference of Catholic still pursue addi- REV. MANUEL HOLGUIN, without Bishop’s Charter for the Protection tional enhancements to the prejudice to his assignment as Pastor of St. Peter of Children and Youth. Auditors program. the Apostle Parish in Fort Worth, has been examined documentation of “With the ongoing par- appointed as Vocations Liaison, Office of Vocations, curriculum, class registrations, ticipation, involvement, and effective Sept. 1, 2017. background check methods, commitment of the volunteers, reporting, and victims’ assis- employees, and clergy, the dio- REV. NGHIA NGUYEN, without prejudice tance outreach. cese will continue the ongoing to his assignment as Parochial Vicar at St. John the Director of Safe enhancement of a robust and Apostle Parish in North Richland Hills, has been Environment Richard Mathews effective training and education appointed as Vocations Liaison, Office of Vocations, said, “We were gratified the program. We are dedicated effective Sept. 1, 2017. auditors recognized and specif- to not just simply meeting the ically commented that Bishop requirements of the USCCB REV. HOA NGUYEN, without prejudice [Michael] Olson’s passion Charter for the Protection of Children to his assignment as Pastor of Parish in and commitment to providing and Young People, but exceeding Fort Worth, has been appointed Vicar Forane of the parishioners, volunteers, visi- them to foster a culture of pro- West Central Deanery, effective Sept. 1, 2017. tors, and employees with a safe, tection of those who are most healthy, and nurturing envi- vulnerable,” said Mathews. REV. MATTHEW TATYREK, without ronment is not only recognized The Charter for the Protection prejudice to his assignment as Chaplain at Nolan but embraced throughout the of Children and Young People is Catholic High School in Fort Worth, has been Diocese of Fort Worth.” a comprehensive set of pro- appointed as Vocations Liaison, Office of Vocations, Mathews added parish- cedures established by the effective Sept. 1, 2017. ioners recognize the impor- USCCB in June 2002 for tance of keeping children and addressing allegations of sexual REV. JONATHAN WALLIS, without vulnerable adults safe and abuse of minors by Catholic prejudice to his role as Dean of Men at St. Joseph understand the benefits of clergy. The Charter also includes Seminary College in Covington, Louisiana, has been undergoing the training and guidelines for reconciliation, appointed as Director of Seminarian Formation, background checks required of healing, accountability, and Office of Vocations, effective Sept. 1, 2017. teen and adult volunteers, lay prevention of future acts of staff, clergy, and seminarians. abuse. REV. JAMES WILCOX has been appointed Also, each year children and as Parochial Vicar at St. Joseph Parish in Arlington, youth in parish schools and – Susan Moses from Director of Vocations and Campus Chaplain at Texas Christian University, effective Sept. 1, 2017.

44 NorthTexasCatholic.org Official Assignments for the Diocese of Fort Worth Nuestro Pastor Habla Obispo Michael F. Olson, STD, MA, Diócesis de Fort Worth

Las Puertas a la Eternidad

“Los ojos del mundo no ven más allá de esta vida, así pueden medirse y cuantificarse. Los estudios atrapados detrás del muro del hedonismo — como los míos no ven más allá de estos muros cuando y la práctica del arte y la literatura en todos en donde la bondad se valora en las cosas la puerta está cerrada. Los ojos del cristiano ven los niveles abren las puertas que nos permiten o las personas en la medida limitada de la profundamente en la eternidad.” — San Juan Vianney pasar a través de los muros del materialismo y el experiencia sensorial — lo que es físicamente consumismo, una salida atravesando la barrera placentero y emocionalmente estimulante. ómo podemos ver profundamente en de la narrativa egoísta que, de La misión de la educación ¿C la eternidad? Esto implica ser capaz otro modo, nos encerraría en la es quitar las barreras y abrir estas de reconocer, apropiarse y apreciar los bienes oscuridad. puertas de la verdad, la belleza eternos y trascendentales de la verdad, la belleza Sin el bien de la belleza, y la bondad. Si no abrimos y la bondad. Estos tres bienes trascendentales dichas disciplinas como el arte, estas puertas, permaneceremos dependen uno del otro dentro del entorno de la música, la literatura, la poesía encerrados detrás de los muros la eternidad. y el teatro sólo se convertirían del egoísmo, el materialismo, el en un espectáculo crudo que consumismo y el hedonismo. LA VERDAD. Vemos la verdad a través de nos sacude con miedo y nos Obispo Michael F. Olson Pido a cada uno de la puerta del conocimiento. Ésta se nos revela insensibiliza a la esperanza. Sin nosotros que examinemos a través de la teología, la filosofía, la historia, el bien de la belleza auténtica, los artes serían nuestra conciencia y nuestra vida. ¿Dónde la lógica, la ciencia, y la matemática y otras valorados sólo en la medida que pudieran ser encontramos cada uno la verdad, la belleza disciplinas. La verdad nos permite pertenecer cuantificadas y vendidas. Esto reemplaza el y la bondad en nuestras propias vidas? ¿Qué a una comunidad con una historia compartida carácter con la celebridad en la fibra del perfil literatura leemos? ¿Qué música informa que va más allá de nosotros mismos o de del artista. nuestra alma? ¿Qué estudiamos para ampliar nuestra propia fabricación. La verdad brinda nuestro conocimiento? ¿Qué consideramos orden y paz. La verdad nos permite reconocer LA BONDAD. Experimentamos la bondad a como nuestra religión y cómo la practicamos? y satisfacer esas necesidades humanas que no través del estudio y la práctica de la religión. La Los bienes trascendentales de la verdad, podemos satisfacer por nuestro propio poder religión nos mantiene enlazados con lo eterno. la belleza y la bondad nos proporcionan una individual, porque la verdad proporciona una La religión ofrece el encuentro espiritual con medida clara de las virtudes cristianas de la medida objetiva mediante la cual podemos lo que yo no puedo manipular o controlar, fe — mediante la cual conocemos la verdad; ponernos de acuerdo para establecer sino solamente adorar — Dios. La religión la esperanza — por la cual percibimos la prioridades. La verdad abre la puerta que nos nos permite ver la bondad del mundo debido belleza; y la caridad — en la que encontramos permite ver profundamente en la eternidad al hecho de que ha sido creado por Dios la bondad en comunión con nuestro prójimo rebasando y atravesando el muro del — “y Dios vio que era bueno”. La religión en la misma vida de Dios, en quien nuestras egocentrismo y de los intereses egoístas. nos permite ver claramente la dignidad de almas encuentran descanso. Sin la verdad, una narrativa egoísta la persona porque todo ser humano ha sido tomará el control y nos dominará a cada uno creado a imagen y semejanza de Dios. La de nosotros en perjuicio del bien común de religión me permite dar testimonio y valorar nuestra sociedad. con reverencia la bondad de los seres humanos encarnados que se diferencian naturalmente LA BELLEZA. Vemos el bien eterno de por un propósito procreador — “hueso de mis la belleza a través del arte, la música, la huesos y carne de mi carne”. La religión me literatura, la poesía y el teatro. La belleza, permite ver la bondad de esta persona que estrechamente relacionada con la verdad, nos tiene nombre y pertenece a una familia. La infunde esperanza. La belleza nos permite religión me permite verme como un ser creado Nota del editor: Adaptado de una plática a compartir la alegría de los bienes inmateriales por Dios para un propósito en la vida. maestros y directores de escuelas católicas que están más allá de los bienes materiales que Sin la puerta de la religión, permanecemos diocesanas el 7 de agosto de 2017.

N Noviembreovember / / D Diciembreecember 2017 45 Fieles en Proclamar Los candidatos al diaconado permanente son instituidos como Lectores

Obispo Michael Olson con los nuevos 28 lectores. (NTC photo/Ben Torres)

Por Lance Murray ministerios del Lector y Acólito. “Estaba de vacaciones visitando a sus Los Lectores son asignados a la lectura padres cuando tanto él como su esposa, os 28 hombres, uno tras otro, se de un texto bíblico que no sea el Evangelio. Zoraida, se quedaron atascados en la Isla”, arrodillaron ante el reverendísimo Eso está reservado solamente para el dijo Rendón. “Él y la familia están bien”. Obispo Michael Olson y pusieron diácono o el sacerdote. Este ministerio es Joel regreso a Texas el 6 de octubre susL manos sobre la Sagrada Escritura. perpetuo - una vez que se instituye a una y será instituido como Lector en otro “Toma este libro de la Sagrada persona como lector, lo es para siempre. momento, dijo Rendón. Escritura y sé fiel en proclamar la palabra Rendón dijo que los 28 hombres Rodney Asebedo, quien está asignado de Dios para que se fortalezca en los instituidos como Lectores el 30 de a la Parroquia de Santa Maria Goretti corazones del pueblo”, dijo el Obispo septiembre en la Catedral de San Patricio de Arlington, dijo que cuenta con el gran Olson a cada uno. de Fort Worth representan una mezcla apoyo de su familia y que están muy Cada candidato respondió, “Amén”, se diversa de edades, culturas étnicas y razas. orgullosos de su logro. levantó y volvió a su asiento, instituido en el Señaló que los hombres vienen de “Es importante tener la oportunidad ministerio del Lector. “diferentes orígenes, pero están unidos de servir a la Iglesia y compartir esta “Es el primer gran paso para alguien por una sola fe, un solo Señor y un solo experiencia con mi familia, que ha estado que está en formación para recibir las bautismo”. orando por nosotros durante todo el Órdenes Sagradas”, dijo Juan Rendón, Rendón dijo que los antecedentes proceso”, dijo Asebedo. Director de la Formación de Diáconos culturales del grupo incluyen hombres de Steve Dixon, que está asignado Permanentes de la Diócesis de Fort Worth. los Estados Unidos, México, América del a la Parroquia de Santo Esteban de “El próximo año recibirán el ministerio del Sur y Vietnam. Weatherford, dijo que este día significaba Acolitado”. Originalmente se programó la mucho para él. Rendón dijo que el Derecho Canónico institución de 29 hombres como Lectores, “Significa poder ir por la Diócesis y requiere que todos los que están en pero Francisco Joel Rodríguez quedó proclamar la palabra de Dios, y recibir la formación para las Órdenes pasen por varado en Puerto Rico debido al huracán gracia de la institución de este ministerio para el Rito de Candidatura y reciban los María. hacer que mis palabras sean claras”, dijo.

46 NorthTexasCatholic.org 46 NorthTexasCatholic.org Formando Discipulos 35 parroquias locales se preparan para el V Encuentro

Por Joan Kurkowski-Gillen

as personas que se reunieron este verano en el salón parroquial del Inmaculado Corazón de LMaría representan la rica diversidad de la comunidad hispana de la diócesis. Entusiastas adolescentes de escuela secundaria, jóvenes profesionales, personas mayores activas, y esforzados trabajadores inmigrantes asistieron a la reunión del V Encuentro — el más grande esfuerzo de evangelización en la historia de los E.U., según los obispos. El V Encuentro (Quinto Encuentro), iniciativa de la Conferencia de los Obispos Obispo Michael Olson con los nuevos 28 lectores. (NTC photo/Ben Torres) Católicos de los E. U. (USCCB en inglés), servirá para discernir las necesidades, los pensamientos, las aspiraciones y las

prácticas de la fe de la creciente población NTC photo / Jayme Shedenhelm hispana y latina en la nación. Margie Dell, miembro de V Encuentro durante una reunión en Santa Maria Goretti en Arlington. ¿La meta? Encontrar formas en que la Iglesia de los E.U. puede servir mejor una de las dos clases del V Encuentro en organizada por la Diócesis de Fort Worth a la comunidad hispana y preparar a los el Inmaculado Corazón de María. Albert en septiembre del 2018. Antes de que hispanos para que ellos puedan responder Ríos, profesor de educación religiosa en la delegados de todo el país se reúnan en mejor a la Nueva Evangelización. Los secundaria, facilita discusiones similares en el Gaylord Texan en Grapevine, los organizadores esperan que el resultado inglés con los feligreses sobre el tema del V representantes estudiarán y revisarán final contribuya a fomentar el liderazgo, Encuentro “Discípulos misioneros: testigos las recomendaciones y revelaciones que incremente las vocaciones e inspire a los del amor de Dios” con feligreses en inglés. surgieron en las reuniones a nivel diocesano jóvenes a involucrarse en la Iglesia. Los jóvenes hispanos tienen muchas y regional. Los resultados se publicarán Más de la mitad de los católicos preguntas y, a menudo, están confundidos en un documento de trabajo después del nacidos en 1982 o después (millennials), se sobre cuestiones de fe, añadió Espinoza. Él, Encuentro nacional. identifican como hispanos o latinos, según junto con su esposa María, son consejeros Aproximadamente 5,000 parroquias un estudio comisionado por los obispos de feligreses casados. toman parte del proceso, 35 son de la de los E.U. Es una prioridad llegar a esta “Es importante asegurarse que su Diócesis de Fort Worth. generación porque la juventud hispana fe es sólida. Muchas familias están en Joel Rodriguez, director diocesano tendrá un impacto en la configuración del crisis ahora”, explicó él. “El Encuentro del Ministerio Hispano, espera que el V futuro de la Iglesia católica en América. nos ayudará a encontrar soluciones para Encuentro promueva unidad y logre que “Estoy emocionado acerca de este ayudar a las familias e incluir a la nueva más hispanos se incorporen a la Iglesia. El programa. La fe del pueblo hispano aquí generación”. primer Encuentro, que tuvo lugar en 1972, es firme, así que tenemos que pasar esa El V Encuentro es un proceso de fidelidad a la siguiente generación”, dijo cuatro años que empieza a nivel parroquial Carlos Espinoza, quien dirige, en español, y concluye con una conferencia nacional Continua en la Página 49

NOTICIAS Noviembre / Diciembre 2017 47 De la Página 47 Nuevo Enfoque El nuevo equipo de vocaciones busca establecer una red más amplia

Por Juan Guajardo

a Diócesis de Fort Worth está adoptando un nuevo enfoqueL con respecto a las vocaciones sacerdotales. En vez de que un director solo ayude a hombres y mujeres a explorar Fr. Nghia Nguyen Fr. Keith Hathaway Fr. Jonathan Wallis, STL Fr. Matthew Tatyrek Fr. Manuel Holguin una vocación religiosa, como se ha estado haciendo durante los últimos en Covington, Louisiana. El obispo Olson dijo que los cuatro años, las vocaciones serán fomentadas por El director de vocaciones anterior, el enlaces actuarían no tanto como directores un equipo de sacerdotes. Padre James Wilcox, ahora es el vicario que “reclutan”, sino más bien como puentes El Obispo Michael Olson explicó parroquial de la Parroquia de St. Joseph en para acompañar a los jóvenes que sienten al North Texas Catholic que es un enfoque Arlington. el llamado a la vida religiosa, orientándolos único que ayudará a construir una cultura Los cuatro coordinadores vocacionales en su discernimiento, pero también enfati- de encuentro y establecerá una red más dirigirán los eventos zando la formación, amplia para hombres y mujeres jóvenes de discernimiento explicando mejor que “buscan [la vida religiosa] y disciernen como los Desayunos “La oración y la enseñanza el sacramento del profundamente”. y Cenas de San Orden Sagrado y una El objetivo es aumentar las vocaciones Andrés, los fines de catequética son un factor vida de oración más para una diócesis en crecimiento y hacer semana Ven y Ve en clave de este nuevo fuerte y profunda. todo lo posible para que los posibles candida- St. Joseph Seminary “Al tener más tos no pasen desapercibidos. y las Horas Sagradas, enfoque” hombres dedicados El obispo Olson recientemente nombró además de los eventos a trabajar con las — Padre Nguyen a cinco sacerdotes para asumir esta tarea. diocesanos anuales vocaciones, tendre- El nuevo equipo incluye a cuatro enlac- como Quo Vadis, mos más tiempo para es de vocaciones: el Padre Cruz Manuel el Programa de familiarizarnos con Holguín, párroco de la Parroquia de San Concientización Vocacional y el Programa los jóvenes que posiblemente tienen una Pedro Apóstol de Fort Worth; el Padre Keith de Discernimiento Cuaresmal. Los sacer- vocación al sacerdocio y para fomentar un Hathaway, capellán de la Escuela Católica dotes enlaces también estarán presentes en sentido de comunidad con los sacerdotes, así Notre Dame de Wichita Falls; el Padre más parroquias, incluyendo las rurales, y como con otros jóvenes que están discernien- Matthew Tatyrek, capellán de la Escuela entre los hablantes de español y vietnamita, do también su vocación”, comentó el Padre Secundaria Católica Nolan de Fort Worth; ya que los cuatro sacerdotes continuarán sus Tatyrek. “Esto proporcionará un ambiente y el Padre Nghia Nguyen, vicario parroquial asignaciones actuales mientras desempeñan en el que la formación en la oración y la de la Parroquia de San Juan Apóstol de también su nuevo rol. catequesis, en lo que respecta al sacerdocio, North Richland Hills. El Padre Jonathan “La oración y la enseñanza catequética puede ocurrir”. Wallis, el quinto miembro del equipo, son un factor clave de este nuevo enfoque”, Los hombres y mujeres que estén servirá como Director de Formación de dijo el Padre Nguyen. “Impartiremos más interesados en conocer más acerca de las los Seminaristas, supervisando y ayudando enseñanza catequética sobre el sacerdocio y vocaciones en la Diócesis, incluyendo los a guiar la formación de los seminaristas ayudaremos a los hombres a fomentar una próximos eventos, deben visitar fwdioc. mientras continúa su tarea como Decano de vida de oración más profunda con nuestro org/vocations o llamar a la Oficina de Estudiantes de St. Joseph Seminary College Señor”. Vocaciones al 817-945-9321.

March / April 2017 48 48 NorthTexasCatholic.org De la Página 47 ayudó a que la Iglesia se familiarizara con los hispanos que llegaban a los E.U. “Este es el quinto”, indicó él. “Fue solicitado por la USCCB para entender las generaciones de hispanos en los E.U., para saber sus necesidades y también los dones que ellos traen a la Iglesia. Como hispanos católicos que somos, traemos un ambiente y cultura de diversidad. Venimos a servir”. El V Encuentro pide a los participantes que actúen como misioneros para traer el mensaje del Evangelio a la periferia de la Iglesia y de la sociedad — al vulnerable, excluido y temeroso. Eso incluye a la segunda, tercera y cuarta generación de hispanos así como a los inmigrantes. “La periferia en 1972 eran los trabajadores en las fábricas y en el campo. Hoy son los profesionistas”, agregó Mary C. Pando y Noe Rosales en una reunión de V Encuentro. (NTC photo/Donna Ryckaert) Rodriguez. “Se han asimilado a la cultura norteamericana, pero no han dejado su diferentes y sus prioridades reflejan esa Jesucristo”, añadió. “Como cristianos herencia y cultura hispana. La Iglesia realidad. tenemos que hacerlo presente. quiere saber cómo cuidarlos y servirlos”. “Nuestra cultura es diferente Tenemos que asegurarnos que Muchos adultos jóvenes hispanos dependiendo de si has estado aquí algún ellos puedan ‘verlo’ a Él a través de se unen a las filas de americanos que tiempo o acabas de llegar”, observó la nosotros”. rechazan cualquier religión organizada. Los organizadora de retiros. “Tenemos que Aunque las discusiones del V investigadores se refieren a ellos como los encontrar un balance para ayudar a cada Encuentro se enfocan en fortalecer “nones”. feligrés”. la presencia hispana/latina en la El V Encuentro aborda esta tendencia, Celso Durán oyó acerca del Encuentro Iglesia, todos los católicos de los E.U. dijo el director. mucho antes de que fuera invitado a en comunidades de fe están invitados “La liturgia católica es hermosa y asistir a la sesión en la Parroquia del Santo a participar, y se espera que a todos perfecta. Lo que necesitamos entender Nombre de Jesús en Fort Worth. Él cree los católicos les quede una impresión mejor es cómo podemos comunicarnos que animar a otros a participar más en la positiva. con nuestros adultos jóvenes”, continuó. Iglesia es la tarea de cada católico. Un pequeño grupo de la Parroquia “¿Cómo podemos comunicarles el amor “La Iglesia necesita mucha ayuda de Sta. Maria Goretti en Arlington y la misericordia de Dios por medio de la y estas reuniones convencerán a otros se reúne dos veces al mes para leer liturgia para que participen más y no se a participar más”, dijo el catequista, la guía de estudio y compartir ideas sientan excluidos”? explicando el trabajo de un discípulo sobre cómo lograr que la gente regrese Energizar a la gente joven es misionero. “Esa es nuestra labor como a su fe. El Padre Dennis Gang, TOR, importante, pero esto es sólo un aspecto católicos”. conduce las sesiones. del V Encuentro, según Nelcy Cárdenas, Las conversaciones que él tiene con “Por ahora, Encuentro es para ministro de los jóvenes en el Inmaculado adultos jóvenes hispanos lo ayudan a la comunidad hispana, pero las Corazón de María. entender por qué muchos jóvenes en sus lecciones aprendidas pueden ayudar “Por eso nuestro párroco le pidió a veintes se alejan de la fe. a otros grupos eclesiales”, sugirió personas que realizan diversas funciones “He hablado con mucha gente joven Alex Benavides, feligrés de SMG — ministros de la Eucaristía, ministros y es asombroso las cosas que ellos creen y voluntario activo de la Sociedad litúrgicos, organizaciones parroquiales acerca del medio ambiente y la política. de San Vicente de Paúl. “Todos — que participen para que podamos Ellos creen todo, menos las enseñanzas de deberíamos poner nuestro empeño en considerar las necesidades de todos”, ella la Iglesia católica”, enfatizó él. ayudar a otros que se han descarriado. explicó. Su actitud es “ver es creer”. Después de todo, todos somos hijos de Generalmente, los hispanos son “Tenemos que permitirles “ver” a Dios”.

NOTICIAS Noviembre / Diciembre 2017 49 Fuertes en la Fe

Ante la devastación que dejó ‘María’, la solidaridad es muestra de fe Casas destruidas se ven el 7 de octubre mientras los esfuerzos de recuperación continúan tras el huracán María en Morovis, Puerto Rico. Casi tres semanas después del huracán María, Puerto Rico permanece con poca agua limpia y poca energía eléctrica. (Foto CNS/Lucas Jackson, Reuters) Por Violeta Rocha

da Colón no cesa de orar por Rico, y su esposa no sufrieron daños San Judas, la familia Colón también asiste su natal Puerto Rico, ante la físicos. Su esposa viajó a San Juan, una a las parroquias de San José y San Mateo profunda devastación que ha semana antes de la vertiginosa llegada de de Arlington y señala que se sintieron Adejado el huracán María en la isla. ‘María’ para visitar a su madre enferma. muy “emocionados” hace unas semanas Colón, 81, feligrés de la Parroquia de La solidaridad ha sido tan fuerte como cuando en la Parroquia de San Mateo San Judas de Mansfield, dice “ver a un la tragedia, señala Roberto, “vecinos han oraron y dedicaron la segunda colecta Puerto Rico que era todo verde y ahora regalado diésel”, que se necesita para a todos los damnificados del huracán parece quemado”, entristece su corazón, hacer funcionar el generador de energía Harvey, Irma y María, además del pero agradece a Dios que sus familiares que mantiene la nevera funcionando y terremoto en México. sobrevivieron las ráfagas de hasta 150 los ventiladores que tanto necesitan para “Se nos salieron las lágrimas al ver que millas por hora del huracán María y que el bienestar de su suegra de 72 años. tuvieron unos minutos para nuestra bella están luchando por salir adelante, “ha sido “Conforme las cosas van avanzando, los isla”, aseguró Ada muy agradecida. una catástrofe muy fuerte…cada día uno vecinos se comparten lo poco que tienen”, El obispo Michael Olson anunció se levanta deseando que sea un día mejor agregó. segundas colectas a través de la diócesis el para ellos, con fe en Dios”, asegura. Roberto y Ada enviaron a la isla un 7-8 de octubre para asistir a los devastados Originaria de Barranquitas, área total de 150 libras de suplidos y artículos, por los terremotos en México y por el montañosa en el centro de Puerto Rico, gracias a un sobrino que les cedió el Huracán María en el Caribe. señala que, gracias a familiares que viven beneficio que la aerolínea donde trabaja Roberto dice que su fe y solidaridad en San Juan — en donde la comunicación le diera a sus empleados para hacer envíos se mantendrán fuertes para ayudar, pues se ha restablecido un poco más rápido gratis debido al huracán. “cuando uno tiene fe en Dios, todo se — sabe que la zona del centro de la isla “Enviamos enlatados de verdura, puede…compartiendo de lo que uno tiene enfrenta carreteras destrozadas, escasez pollo, salmón, harina de café, arroz, y privándose de cosas que uno hacía antes, de agua, falta de energía eléctrica y, por si baterías y linternas,” dijo Ada y añadió eso es lo que estamos haciendo nosotros”, fuera poco, muchas personas han perdido que no olvida a varios amigos con quienes dijo. sus trabajos. no ha logrado todavía comunicarse y María es el huracán más fuerte que ha Roberto Colón, 57, hijo de Ada, dice tener esperanza de que estén bien y azotado a Puerto Rico desde 1928. Hasta también sabe que su hija, de 23 años, que “sepan que los tengo en mis oraciones”. el 15 de octubre, el número de muertos se estudiaba en la Universidad de Puerto Además de atender a la Parroquia de situó en 48.

March / April 2017 50 50 NorthTexasCatholic.org Viviendo el Temblor

El Padre Stephen Jasso dice que estando en manos de Dios no existe el miedo Los rescatistas buscan sobrevivientes en los escombros de los edificios colapsados el 20 de septiembre en la ciudad de México. El terremoto de magnitud 7.1 que afectó el 19 de septiembre al sureste de la ciudad, matando a cientos. (Foto CNS/José Mendez, EPA) Por Violeta Rocha

l miedo nos puede paralizar ante aloja a la Iglesia Divina Providencia, en la desde el 18 de septiembre para la Misa una tragedia, pero estar cerca de Colonia del Valle, zona donde hubo 2 de en la Basílica de Guadalupe del XX Dios da las fuerzas para avanzar y 38 edificios derrumbados en un área de Aniversario de la provincia en México ayudarE al hermano en necesidad. Esa ha tres colonias. de la Orden Franciscana de la Tercera sido la reacción de la que el Padre Stephen Ante el dolor “la generosidad de la Orden Regular (TOR, por sus siglas en Jasso, párroco de la Iglesia de Todos los juventud mexicana”, ha sido la esperanza español), al siguiente día tuvo dos juntas Santos en Fort Worth, ha sido testigo tras para salir de “los escombros”, señala para organizar eventos de recaudación no uno, sino los dos más impactantes el padre originario de Waco, Texas, de de fondos para vocaciones Franciscanas, terremotos que han afectado a México, en padres mexicanos, quien transportándose coincidiendo con la fecha del terremoto. los últimos 100 años. en taxi pudo observar a varios jóvenes En su parroquia de Todos Los Santos, Siendo encargado de la casa de caminando con mochila a la espalda y se planea realizar una colecta durante formación para el sacerdocio en México, pala en mano, determinados a ayudar en las Misas Dominicales para ayudar a el Padre Jasso, vivió el terremoto de 1985, la zona de desastre. las víctimas de los recientes desastres y coincidiendo con un viaje sacerdotal Agradeciendo a Dios que “todavía naturales, este domingo 8 de octubre para exactamente 32 años después, sintió estoy vivo”, el Padre Jasso aseguró Puerto Rico y el domingo 15 de octubre temblar nuevamente el suelo mexicano, que sabe que son desastres naturales para México. durante el recio sismo con magnitud y que “Dios no ha creado el mundo Ante tragedias como éstas, vivir de 7.1 que azotó los estados de Puebla, para destruirlo, sino para llevarlo a un preparados para el futuro manteniendo una Morelos y Cd. de México el pasado 19 de desarrollo de perfección,” y lejos de buena relación con Dios y no tener temor, septiembre. sentir miedo o debilitar su fe, la fortalece, sino actuar para el bien de los demás, es la “El terremoto fue muy fuerte, se “cuando estás bien con Dios, te preocupan invitación del Padre Jasso, “El llamado es mecieron mucho los edificios…toda la los demás, te preocupa tu hermano… rápido y vas porque Dios es quien te llama gente de los varios otros edificios salió para la juventud de México, fue lo que hizo, a ayudar a tus hermanos,” dijo. estar en la calle,” narró el Padre Jasso. ayudar sin peros, quitando trozos de El obispo Michael Olson anunció Pero “a la 1:14 p.m. comenzó realmente el ladrillo, de cemento. ¡Qué maravilla, qué segundas colectas a través de la diócesis el terremoto, el sismo, entonces sí fue grave,” gente tan generosa!,” afirmó. 7-8 de octubre para asistir a los devastados dijo, explicando que él se encontraba en El sacerdote franciscano de 83 años por los terremotos en México y por el el primero de cuatro pisos del edificio que de edad, estaba en la capital del país, Huracán María en el Caribe.

NOTICIAS Noviembre / Diciembre 2017 51 Escuchando Sus Historias En el corazón del debate de inmigración esta una persona humana y su viaje

Por Susan Moses Fotos por Juan Guajardo

l 27 de septiembre el Papa En solidaridad con el Santo Padre, el devuelven a la sociedad”. Francisco lanzó a nivel mundial la obispo compartió el viaje con: Nacido en la “tribu equivocada” de campaña de dos años “Compartir la República Democrática del Congo, elE viaje”, con el fin de promover DOMINGO GONZÁLEZ, Stephane creció con el rechazo y la encuentros con los migrantes, mientras DE MÉXICO discriminación, y cuando estalló la guerra se encontraba reunido con cientos de Después de trabajar por más de civil, la intolerancia llegó a los asesinatos. refugiados e inmigrantes en la Plaza de una docena de años en la construcción, Temiendo por su vida, dejó su trabajo San Pedro. Domingo González lanzó su propio como farmacéutico y junto con su esposa Esa misma tarde, el Obispo Michael negocio de servicios públicos subterráneos buscaron asilo en los Estados Unidos. Su Olson respondió a la llamada del Papa y ya tiene seis empleados. Su familia primer trabajo en este país fue lavar la Francisco de dar la bienvenida y acoger está también creciendo, tiene dos hijas ropa en un hogar de ancianos. al forastero al reunirse en Caridades y un hijo en camino. Sin embargo, Desde entonces, Stephane ha Católicas de Fort Worth con emigrantes de González teme que su floreciente negocio obtenido una maestría en salud mental. cuatro países diferentes. y familia desaparezcan. Como uno de Él y su esposa son dueños de su casa, Según el Obispo Olson, “el Papa los “soñadores” en este país, teme que el donde están criando a sus cuatro está preocupado especialmente de que programa DACA termine y que a él lo hijos. Él trabaja con los refugiados en perdamos de vista las historias humanas de separen de su esposa y de sus hijos. Caridades Católicas Fort Worth y admira los refugiados y que las personas no tengan González llegó a los Estados Unidos su capacidad de recuperación. Según un rostro, ni nombre ni voz cuando son de México con su familia cuando tenía 14 Stephane, los refugiados llegan aquí agrupadas bajo el nombre de refugiados. años. Al principio, la vio sólo como una en busca de seguridad y trabajan duro Lo que está en juego es su sentido de gran nación, con personas extraordinarias para establecerse y contribuir a su nueva pertenencia a una familia y su pertenencia y con más oportunidades para una comunidad. a una comunidad”. vida mejor. Ahora se siente que no es El obispo comentó que la hostilidad bienvenido, incluso odiado. HUSSAIN AL MFTOOL, DE IRAK hacia los migrantes es alimentada por el “El Presidente y el Congreso y el resto Hussain Al Mftool era objeto de miedo, la ignorancia y la apatía — todo del pueblo necesitan encontrar una mejor persecución porque trabajaba en Irak lo cual podría ser aminorado a través de solución”, dijo González. “DACA no es para una compañía internacional de encuentros personales con los migrantes y sólo un permiso de trabajo, se trata de las comunicaciones que llevaba a cabo los refugiados. vidas y las familias.” negocios con el gobierno de los Estados Le dijo a los migrantes: “Tenemos Unidos. Cuando sus hijos caminaban que continuar esta conversación dentro AMANI STEPHANE, DE LA a la escuela, él los seguía de cerca para de la sociedad. . . para ayudar a que las REPÚBLICA DEMOCRÁTICA asegurarse de que no fueran secuestrados. voces de los demás sean escuchadas, DEL CONGO Antes de conducir su coche buscaba para llevarlos adelante, porque hacen su Amani Stephane quiere que la gente debajo del mismo para ver que no había aportación a la sociedad, pertenecen a la sepa que los refugiados son contribuyentes. una bomba. No se sentía seguro en el misma y son necesarios”. “Cuando se les da la oportunidad, mercado, porque “te conocen y saben

March / April 2017 52 52 NorthTexasCatholic.org Refugiados e inmigrantes comparten sus historias con el Obispo Michael Olson y con Heather Reynolds, presidente y directora ejecutiva de Caridades Catolicas.

Ru Hta Dun Amani Stephane Hussain Al Mftool

Domingo y Flor dónde trabajas”. a la persecución en su tierra natal de Gonzalez La vida de Al Mftool pudo haber sido Myanmar. Perder a su marido a causa de salvada gracias a su visa de Inmigrante la malaria. Dejar a su hijo menor con su Especial. Llegó en enero a Fort Worth hermana cuando ella y su hija huyeron con su esposa y sus dos hijos. Añadió que del país. Caminar por la noche hasta una “ahora todo es posible”. Sus hijos están comunidad de refugiados en Malasia. felices de poder jugar afuera y les va muy Vivir cuatro años con la preocupación de bien en el quinto y tercer grado. que cualquier recurso que tenían podía Al Mftool le gusta su trabajo en un ser robado. almacén al por menor, pero está muy Sin embargo, su actitud es la de estar emocionado de que en los Estados Unidos agradecida. Debido a la “bienvenida “cualquier persona puede estudiar”. que recibió en América” hace ocho Planea tomar clases en Tarrant County años se siente segura. Trabaja como College el próximo semestre para obtener administradora de casos del programa Dun dijo: “Los refugiados dejan todo un grado de administración de negocios de reasentamiento de refugiados de lo que tienen. No es fácil comenzar una para poder realizar sus sueños “paso a Caridades Católicas Fort Worth. nueva vida en un nuevo país “. paso”. Se hizo ciudadana de los EE.UU., Pero ella no lamenta su decisión de compró una casa, su hija estudia Ciencia haber dejado a Myanmar hace 12 años. RU HTA DUN, DE MYANMAR Aeronáutica en una universidad y “Espero una vida segura. Sueño con Ru Hta Dun se ha enfrentado a recientemente obtuvo una licencia de un futuro brillante para mis hijos. Y hoy, enormes desafíos en su vida. Sobrevivir piloto. todos mis sueños se hacen realidad”.

NOTICIAS Noviembre / Diciembre 2017 53 Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. /s/ Juan Guajardo, Editor

1. Publication Title: North Texas Catholic Magazine 15. Extent and nature of circulation: Households, parishes, and schools

Average No. Copies Each Issue No. Copies of Single 2. Publication number: 0899-7020 During Preceding 12 Months Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date 3. Filing date: September 12, 2017

4. Frequency of issue: Bi-monthly

5. Number of issue published annually: 6

6. Annual subscription price: $18

7. Location of Known Office of Publication:800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, TX 76108

8. Mailing Address: Same as above

9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Publisher, Bishop Michael F. Olson, 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, TX 76108; Editor, Juan Guajardo, 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, TX 76108.

10. Owner: Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth, 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, TX 76108

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None.

12. The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal purposes of this organization has not changed in the preceding 12 months.

Catholic Schools Office announces free/reduced lunch, milk programs

he diocesan Office of Catholic Schools has announced reduced-price lunch program must list all incomes by source, Tits policy for free and reduced-price meals for children such as Social Security, wages, child support, and pension who are unable to pay for meals served under the National for each household member. School Breakfast and Lunch, Free Milk, or Commodity School Everyone wanting to participate in the program must programs. apply again this year at their respective schools, including The following parochial schools will participate in the children who qualified for free/reduced-price meals during National School Lunch Program: All Saints, St. George, the last school year. Our Mother of Mercy, Our Lady of Victory, St. Rita, A child must be registered in school before an applica- and St. Peter the Apostle, all in Fort Worth; Sacred Heart, tion will be accepted. Participants will be notified within Muenster; Notre Dame Elementary, Wichita Falls; St. one week after applying if their children qualify for free or Mary’s, Gainesville. reduced-price lunches or milk. St. Maria Goretti School in Arlington will participate in In the operation of child-feeding programs, no child will the free and reduced-price milk program. be discriminated against because of race, color, sex, national Under current guidelines, applicants for the free and origin, age, or handicap.

54 NorthTexasCatholic.org From Page 56

He’s especially well known and loved by built my own car and began the faith community at St. Thomas the racing in 1969.” Apostle Parish where he celebrated his For the next 30 years the Jubilee Mass on Sept. 9. pastor raced wherever he was Friends and family from across the stationed, earning the nick- country gathered inside the church to name “Honkin’ Padre.” honor a man who entered the seminary in But his time at the track 1958 after witnessing the care and com- wasn’t just about rounding the passion of a military chaplain. A farm boy corners at record speed. who joined the Air Force after high school “I ministered to pit crews, graduation, the recruit was impressed with heard confessions, and would Father Neil Enright’s “presence” to give the invocation before the the troops. race. At bigger events, I would “He’d walk the flight line and we’d have Mass,” said the amateur see him in the dining hall or baseball field driver who was never serious- where we recreated,” Fr. Jerry recalled. ly injured. “I was their padre “He was just very, very present to the if they needed or wanted to young airmen on base and I began to talk to me.” think it looked like an interesting life.” During a race in S.C., The flight engineer was drawn to one of his competitors suf- the Oblate Fathers of Mary Immaculate fered a heart attack. Officials because of the order’s mission to “preach stopped the race and Fr. Jerry the Gospel to the poor wherever we find ran to the stopped car. the poor.” “I didn’t know if he was Fr. Jerry Ward celebrates the 50th anniversary of his ordination And the word “poor” doesn’t neces- Catholic or not but I always Sept. 9 during a Mass at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Fort sarily mean someone’s empty wallet. carried the holy oils with me,” Worth. (NTC photo/Ben Torres) “We’re all poor at heart,” the priest he explained. “I got them out observed. “We all need the Gospel message of the glove box in my truck vocation.” regardless of what our financial status is.” and anointed him.” It’s easy to see how the high-energy Ordained an Oblate Father on Sept. His reputation as the Honkin’ Padre entertainers could relate to the former 9, 1967 at his home parish, St. Stephen in introduced him to another traveling con- racecar driver who now restores and sells Phoenix, N.Y., Fr. Jerry left the religious gregation — circus people. Whenever the old tractors. His trip to Darrington prison, community in the early 2000s because of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey show 50 years ago, taught him a valuable lesson his sister’s health. Prior to that, he spent rolled into Fort Worth, the performers in discipleship. 30 years following in his mentor’s footsteps would contact Fr. Jerry for Sunday Mass. At the end of that memorable as an Air Force chaplain assigned to Shaw The menagerie of lion tamers and trapeze Christmas Mass, an inmate approached Fr. Air Force Base in Sumter, S.C., and then artists impressed the visiting priest. Jerry to say, “Hey, chaplain, I noticed you military posts in Turkey, Korea, Japan, and The circus had its own Mass kit that seemed a little nervous.” England. traveled with the troupe. The young priest admitted his As a priest gifted with an ability to “It was kept in one box with nothing uneasiness. connect with people, Fr. Jerry has min- else around it,” he added, describing the “Next time you come, chap,” the istered to the “poor in spirit” in some care shown. “Everything was in perfect prisoner advised, “just treat us like unusual places — like stock car races. shape, like you’d find in a sacristy. It was people.” Intrigued by speed from the time he was a unbelievable.” Those words of encouragement stay teenager, the energetic pastor began racing Fr. Jerry would celebrate Mass in a with Fr. Jerry. late model cars when he was assigned to a room on a table with a perfectly white “For the past 50 years, I’ve tried to do parish in International Falls, Minn. tablecloth. Circus members set up the altar just that — treat people like people,” he “I got on the pit crew of one of my and served as lectors. said. “Our Lord gives us many examples parishioners and did that for about a year,” “They were very down to earth — of how to treat others. As we live this life, he said, explaining how he learned the just like people in any walk of life,” he it’s probably one of the most important intricacies of the sport. “The next year, I observed. “Performing was their skill and and toughest things we do.”

Good Newsmaker November / December 2017 55 Planes, Circus Trains, & Automobiles

In 50 years of priesthood, Fr. Jerry Ward serves people where they are: the air field, the Big Top, and the race track.

Father Jerry Ward (left) with Richard Petty during the Pocono Raceway Summer 500 time trials in 1987. Photo courtesy/Fr. Jerry Ward

If you ask Father austere and grim confines of Darrington of Bethlehem,’ I guess I’ll be okay.” — a men’s prison outside Houston. Ministering to all kinds of people, “Jerry” Ward to capture his “I was only ordained a few weeks and wherever they are in life, defines Fr. Jerry’s I remember walking down the crosswalk,” priesthood. For 50 years, the longtime mil- priesthood in one memory, said Fr. Jerry, who volunteered for the itary chaplain has shepherded an eclectic holiday service. “It was cold, dark, and the group of parishioners — from racecar he takes a moment — but walls were sweating with moisture.” drivers to ranchers. The young, anxious priest was also His biggest challenge? Finding enough only a moment — to think perspiring. Darrington was a pretty rough pastoral time to meet everyone’s needs. place with a troubled inmate population. Technically, Fr. Jerry is a diocesan about it. The visiting chaplain wondered how the priest for the Diocese of Charleston, S.C. prisoners would receive him. Since moving to Fort Worth in 2004 to In a soft voice, he begins talking about “I wanted to come across in a very care for his sister, Mary Agnes Ward, Christmas Eve 1967 as if it were yesterday. pastoral, caring way,” Fr. Jerry explained. the 80-year-old retiree has assisted local Ordained a few months earlier, the upstate His worries disappeared as the sound pastors by celebrating weekend Masses, New York native prepared to celebrate his of a Christmas carol reverberated through hearing confessions, and “going wherev- first Christmas Mass as a priest. the cellblock. er Bishop [Michael] Olson needs me.” The liturgy’s setting wasn’t your usual “I thought to myself, well, if these guys cozy, poinsettia-filled sanctuary but the who are locked up can sing ‘O Little Town Continued on Page 55

Good Newsmaker By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen