Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas

Volume XXXIII, No. 12 DECEMBER 2013

SAN ANGELO TX 76902-1829 TX ANGELO SAN

DIOCESE OF SAN SAN OF DIOCESE ANGELO

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NONPROFIT ORG. NONPROFIT SAN ANGELO, TX ANGELO, SAN Advent-Christmas 2013 44 NO. PERMIT Page 2 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus FROM THE BISHOP’S DESK How we can make Christmas happen every day By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI we remember that unique moment in human his- Christmas, and throughout the Christmas season, tory of the birth of the greatest person who ever to come especially as a family and spend time in In the Gospel for the midnight Christmas Mass, lived, Jesus Christ, true God and true man. I pray prayer and meditation before this infant in the we hear God’s angel announce the wonderful in a special way in my Christmas Masses that the crib, and to give him praise and glory as we kneel news of that long-awaited first Christmas: “Do peace of the child Jesus, the one who is still the before our little king, begging him to show us the not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim for you good Prince and way of true peace, will fill all of your way to peace, reconciliation and how to discover news of great joy that will be for all the people. hearts and that we will all come to understand the God’s mercy and forgiveness, and how to be For today in the city of David a savior has been true meaning of Christmas. As we mark the agents of God’s mercy for others. The infant, the Bishop born for you, who is Christ the Lord. And this birthday of the Prince of Peace, we pray for peace God-man, in the crib is a sign and source of the Pfeifer will be a sign for you: you will find an infant in our world, for the millions of poor and home- reconciliation and healing that we need in our wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a less, for an end to war and violence, for God’s individual lives, in our families, in our communi- manger.” The birth of that baby, the Incarnation protection of our military personnel and for peace ties, and throughout the world. of Christ, is the greatest event in all of human his- in each of our hearts and families. Historically, we assign a day to say when Christ tory—the very Son of God, becoming man, like To understand, to comprehend, at least in some was born. However, because of the wonderful us. way, in as much as our tiny, human minds can, I mystery of the sacred liturgy, through the power My first wish for all of you, your families and invite you to come and meditate on the divine and presence of the Holy Spirit, Christ is born in friends, is for a blessed and joyful Christmas as mystery of that wonderful child wrapped in swad- a new way each day in each and every Mass. dling clothes and lying in a manger. Take time on (Please See BISHOP/22) DIOCESAN BRIEFS National Adoption Day Bread of Life amount of $1,000 each to graduating high school SAN ANGELO — Holy Angels will again host seniors. Applicants must be Catholic Life the Bread of Life Retreat/Youth 2000 weekend, Insurance members who will be enrolled in a pri- January 24-26. The Franciscan Friars of the vate or public college, university or trade school Renewal will lead the retreat. for the upcoming fall semester. Download appli- For those who attended our last Bread of Life cations at www.cliu.com. For more information, Retreat in 2012 you may remember that we please contact Briana Frantz in the Communications Department at (800) 292-2548 almost ran out of room in the Parish Hall or (210) 828-9921 ext. 141, or send an email to because of the large number of attendees - [email protected]. around 500. Please start planning now so you will be able to register early in case organizers Holy Redeemer Holy Land pilgrimage are faced with having to limit registration. For When: April 2-11, 2014, Pilgrimage more information, email Holy Angels at Cost: $3,550 (Single) [email protected] Package price includes the following: 4 Meet at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrivals and Diocesan Conference Day, Feb. 8 departures. McNease Convention Center, San Angelo 4 Three nights’ accommodation in Tiberius in February 8, 2014 double occupancy with breakfast, lunch and din- 9:00am - 4:00pm ner. Zeal For The Mission 4 Two nights’ accommodation in Jericho in dou- This day will focus on the different paths of ble occupancy with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. discipleship and zeal in being 4Three night’s accommodation in Bethlehem in “Bearers of Good News.” double occupancy with breakfast, lunch, and din- This Conference is open to everyone especial- ner. ly catechists, catechetical leaders and youth min- 4 Nine days sightseeing in a modern air-condi- istry leaders. Contact the Office of Education and tioned private bus. National Adoption Day Formation at 325-651-7500 for more information. 4English-speaking government licensed Christian tour guide for arrival and all touring Bradley Hale, left; Alex Garcia and Dylan Hale, three Scouts from St. Catholic Life Insurance Scholarships days. Ann’s and all adopted by Forever Families took part in the 2013 National Adoption Day ceremony at the Midland County Courthouse. Seven chil- Applications for the 2014 All American Scholar 4Entrance fees to places of interests while on Program, sponsored by Catholic Life Insurance, dren were adopted during the November 22 ceremony. There are over tour in the Holy Land. 100,000 children in the United States that are waiting for their forever are now available and must be received no later 4 Mass every day at different religious sites. family through adoption services. Statewide the number of those waiting than March 1, 2014. Send your completed appli- 4 Tips for guide and driver. is 6,511, and in the Permian Basin, 130. National Adoption Day is a cation package to: Catholic Life Insurance, Attn: 4 Round trip flight tickets. national effort to raise awareness of the children in foster care waiting All American Scholar Award, PO Box 659527, For more information contact Holy Redeemer for families. At the heart of National Adoption Day are thousands of chil- dren, parents, judges, adoption professionals, CASA Volunteers, and San Antonio, TX 78265 432-580-4295 Or Goodshepherd Travel 810- The All American Scholar Program awards 35 community members who come together to finalize the adoptions of chil- 397-8669 www.Goodshepherdtravel.com dren in foster care and to celebrate all families who adopt. (Photo by non-renewable college scholarships in the Jimmy Patterson/The Angelus) The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 3 From the Editor DIOCESAN DATES Bishop’s Calendar Ordination of Bishop Michael Love of family, self: Learning from others Olson AMMAN, Jordan — Tears are us have such minor problems in lips and anger through our DECEMBER prevalent here. They come from comparison. Facebook status — our modern day 14 — WALL, St. Ambrose- Christ the King the eyes of Syrian refugees driven The killing in Syria is not unlike stage and soapbox. We were faced Liturgy Day Retreat Center from their homes the stories of war and brutality with the bleak reality of having a 15 — SANDERSON, St. James – Mass at 3:00 P.M. DECEMBER by the violence of we’ve heard for as long as any of government in tatters, unable to 16 — SAN ANGELO, Bishop’s 14 — Deacon Formation the Assad regime us care to remember. War has been pay its bills and its people but con- Residence – Annual Christmas 16 —Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp and the forces that with all of us for most of our lives, tinuing to spend. When I returned Party for the Bishop’s Staff and 17 — Adoration oppose his rule in it doesn’t matter our age. We have home, we had traded a government Retreat Center Staff at 6:00 p.m. 19 — Catholic Daughters their homeland. In not learned. shutdown for a healthcare lock- 17-19 — CHICAGO, Christmas Party two years of Certainly next to those who give down. The rage remained, only the Anniversary Celebration for 21 — San Angelo Cursillo Cardinal George School of Leaders fighting, the their lives or suffer injury, and their object of the rancor had changed. 22 — ROWENA, St. Joseph- 22-23 — Seminarian Winter bloodshed quickly families, the people who lose so I learned a lot from the people I Mass to rededicate the Church at Gathering Patterson escalated and much in war are the peaceful was fortunate to meet from Syria 11:00 a.m. 23 —Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp grew into the among us; citizens, such as the and Jordan. Like many people in 23 — SAN ANGELO, Christ the 24 — Adoration deadly conflict it is today. The lat- Syrians in this case, lose so much; America, nothing is more impor- King Retreat Center – Lunch with 24-25 — Office closed, est numbers are startling: Over 2 they are forced to give up their tant than love of family and coun- Seminarians at 11:00 a.m. Christmas Holiday 24 — SAN ANGELO, Tom 30 —Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp million have fled the country. Of homes, husbands and sons. Forced try. Many Syrians step out in Green County Jail – Mass at 9 31-Jan 1 — Office closed in the ones who stayed, more than to trade lives of security for the courage instead of understandably a.m., 10 a.m. Observance of New Years 115,000 are now dead. Those who unknown. Peace-seeking people are suffering through pain and depres- 24 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred escaped are left to face a future of left out of the political equation of sion. Just that one attitude can Heart Cathedral- Christmas Vigil JANUARY 2014 uncertainty. No one knows when war. People like us and Syrian teach us a valuable lesson. Mass at Midnight 1 — Office closed in or if they will ever be able to refugees — who are like us — are But there’s also this: 25 — SAN ANGELO, Observance of New Years Holiday 4 Love your family. Goodfellow AFB – Christmas Day 4 — Deacon Formation return home. Or if they will ever all one, perhaps especially so when Anyone who Mass at 9:30 a.m. 6 — Heart of Mercy Prayer see their family members who part of the body is hurting. has survived a fire or a natural dis- 26-30 — Rest and Prayer Group stayed behind to fight for Syria. I learned a lot in the Middle aster knows what it feels like to 7 — Adoration of the Blessed In America, our greatest uncer- East. Most lessons came from peo- lose everything, When family JANUARY 2014 Sacrament tainties can amount to what time a ple who say they are hopeless, but emerges from the rubble, they 1 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred 10-12 — Engaged Encounter soccer game begins or when a who still hope anyway. know what it feels like to have Heart Cathedral – 10 am Mass for 12 — Natural Family Planning Solemnity of Mary and World 13 — Heart of Mercy Prayer spouse will get off work so that When I left America on October everything. People driven from Peace Group dinner can be on the table and 4, we were embroiled in much bit- their homeland know both those 5 — CARLSBAD, Mass at St. 14 — Adoration of the Blessed warm for the family. So many of terness. Disgust flowed from our (Please See PATTERSON/23) Therese at 11 am Sacrament 6-10 — SAN ANTONIO, Texas 20 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Bishops Retreat, Pat Guidon Group Del Escritorio del Obispo Center 21 — Adoration of the Blessed 12 — OZONA, Our Lady of Sacrament Perpetual Help – Mass 11 am 26 — CKRC Confirmation 14 — BIG LAKE, Meeting with Retreat Podemos hacer que la Pastoral and Finance Councils of 27 — Heart of Mercy Prayer St. Margaret and St. Francis-Iraan Group – 6:30 pm 27 — Deacon Quarterly 15 — SAN ANGELO, Noon Meeting navidad suceda cada dia Mass at Newman Center 28 — Adoration of the Blessed 16-18 — Rest and prayer Sacrament Por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer servirá de señal: encontrarán al zones y que podamos llegar a un 19 — WALL, Mass at St. Day niño envuelto en pañales y recosta- mejor entendimiento del verdadero Ambrose at 9 am do en un pesebre.” El nacimiento significado de la Navidad. 21 — SAN ANGELO, Christ the Escuchamos en nuestro King Retreat Center, 10 a.m., NECROLOGY Evangelio de la Misa Navideña de de ese bebe, la Encarnación de Mientras conmemoremos el Spiritual Day for Priests JANUARY Medianoche, las buenas nuevas Cristo, es el más grande evento de cumpleaños del Príncipe de Paz, 21 — SAN ANGELO, 6:30 pm 10 — Rev. Francis Beazley, proclamadas por toda historia humana—el mismo rezamos por la paz en el mundo, St. Joseph, San Angelo meeting OMI (1992) el ángel de Dios Hijo de Dios, haciéndose humano, por el fin a la guerra y violencia, y with Pastoral and Finance 13 — Rev. Joseph Walter de la primera como nosotros. por la protección de los que sirven Councils (1989) Navidad tan Mi primer deseo para todos ust- en nuestras fuerzas armadas, y por 20 — SAN ANGELO, 16 — Rev. Cyril Lange (1971) Ecumenical prayer service, 12 16 — Msgr. Timothy Murphy esperada. El edes y sus familias y amigos, es paz en cada uno de nuestros cora- noon sacred Heart Cathedral to (2004) ángel les dijo: que tengan una Navidad bendita y zones y de nuestras familias. honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 18 — Rev. Patrick Ryan, O.M.I. “No teman. Les alegre mientras recordemos ese Para entender, comprender, en 22 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred (1975) traigo una buena momento único en la historia alguna manera, en cuanto nuestras Heart Cathedral 12 noon Pro-life 19 — Fr. Robert Kelly (1999) noticia, que humana del cumpleaños de la per- mentes pequeñas puedan, les invito Mass - Day of Supreme Court 23 — Deacon Jose Esparza sona más grande que ha vivido, a ustedes a buscar y meditar sobre decision on abortion causará gran ale- (2011) Obispo 23 — SAN ANGELO, Meeting 24 — Bishop Thomas Tschoepe gría a todo el Jesucristo, verdadero Dios y ver- el divino misterio del maravilloso pueblo: Hoy les Miguel Pfeifer dadero hombre. Rezo en una man- niño envuelto en pañales y acosta- with Pastoral and Finance (2009) OMI Councils, St. Joseph Church 26 — Deacon D.J. Goetz (2003) ha nacido, en la era especial en las misas Navideñas do en el pesebre. Tomen 24-26 — SAN ANGELO, Holy 26 — Deacon Jack Peterson ciudad de David, un salvador, que que la paz del niño Jesús, quien es Angels: Bread of Life Retreat (1987) es el Mesías, el Señor. Esto les aún el Príncipe y guía a la ver- (Mira OBISPO/21) 29-30 FORT WORTH, dadera paz, llene a todos sus cora- Page 4 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus SEMINARIAN OF Advent: Preparing for history’s greatest event THE MONTH By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI Advent season, we need to cry out to and the music of Advent and Christmas to Christ, who is our hope and our salvation, truly celebrate God’s gracious gift to us. The season of Advent, the four weeks like the two blind men of the gospel— Advent prepares us to capture the spirit of Reginald Odima we spend in preparation for the birthday “Jesus, have pity on us!” We all need Christmas which is all about God’s loving of Christ on Christmas, is a time to pre- God’s pity and mercy, and during Advent care and compassion for all of us. Our Full Name: Reginald Anthony Odima we especially need to be God’s agents of God chose to come among us in the lowli- Birthdate: Sept 6, 1989 (23 yrs. old) pare for the greatest event of all of human Birthplace: Nairobi, Kenya history, our God becoming one of us in mercy and compassion for others. Not est of places and to reach out to those who How many siblings Jesus Christ. The true reason for the sea- everybody can take care of themselves, feel they are helpless and hopeless. do you have? 4. son is to remember that our God loves us and whether they are materially poor or Advent is a time for us to focus on the What Seminary do to the point of asking His own Son to trapped in poverty or depression, compul- new hope and life that God will offer us in you attend? Assumption become one of us, to bring us God’s for- sion, fears or addiction, their voices of the Christ child on Christmas, and to cap- Seminary, San Antonio giveness and love and to show us how to need continue to beg us to be their advo- ture the spirit of giving and sharing that What level are you? live as children of our Heavenly Father. cates, to lend a hand to help them. Advent are shown to us by our God. There is a 1st year Theology Home Parish: St. Hence, Advent is a call for a new begin- is about receiving new hope for life and reason for the season, and it is found in Mary’s, San Angelo ning, for a new hope, a hope that goes out sharing this hope with other people who the process of giving, especially of our Odima Favorite Saint: St. to people whose darkness is profound, a are helpless and hopeless. person, of our time, and our gifts to help Anthony hope for people who feel abandoned, a Advent is a time of preparation for the others, and to help each other prepare well Favorite Color: Blue hope for people who feel they need to be beautiful and joyful celebration of the for the birthday of the greatest person who Favorite sport: Basketball saved and rescued. birthday of Christ on Christmas. ever lived. During these days of Advent Favorite Team: Mavericks The Scriptural Readings for our daily Christmas truly needs to be celebrated we need to spend time reflecting on the Favorite Food/Restaurant: ALL !!! Favorite Desert: Tres Leches Masses for the beautiful season of Advent during the Christmas season given to us Word of God as given to us in the liturgy Any Hobbies: I am very active and remind us that we have a God who helps by the Church, but we also need to of each day, especially God’s hope that is enjoy all sports those who cannot help themselves. They remember that preparation for this joyful offered us through the many readings of Objectives: To one day be called need and want to be saved and rescued, and day is 90% of its celebration. Our the prophet Isaiah. To truly capture the FATHER! God has sent one who can fulfill all of our Christmas does not end with the meals hope and joy of the season we need to hopes and our desires in the person of Jesus and festivities on Christmas day and the spend more time and prayer with family, BIOGRAPHY Christ. As we prepare during Advent to cel- unwrapping of gifts, but rather we should go to church together, celebrate the I was born in Nairobi, Kenya and lived ebrate Christ’s coming among us, we espe- strive to take part in new joy, hope and Sacraments of Reconciliation, and to there until I was 11. In December 2000, happiness that are being offered to us by reach out to others by sharing our gifts my family and I migrated to the United cially need to remember the principal rea- States, Dallas, where we have lived ever son why He came—to save us, to bring us our God as we prepare for His birthday and our goods with those who have less since. I attended middle school and high God’s mercy and forgiveness, and to lead and then live His birthday during the than we do. Then Christmas will take on a school in Irving, which is a suburb of us to eternal peace with God, our Father. entire Christmas season. We need to take new joyful meaning. Dallas County; I then decided to go to col- As we go through the days of the advantage of this time with colored lights lege at Angelo State University in San Angelo. After a year of my studies at ASU I decided to deeply discern my vocation Adviento es un tiempo de preparacion para and begin my formation as a seminarian. I did not come to this conclusion alone, I did it with my family’s prayer and support, el evento mas grande de toda historia humana great friends with whom I grew closer to Por el Obispo Miguel D. Pfeifer, OMI tras Misas diarias durante la temporada de pasión para otros mientras nos esforzamos our Lord, and the wonderful support and Adviento nos recuerdan que tenemos un a ver nuestra realidad por los ojos de Dios. words of wisdom given me by the people La temporada de Adviento, las cuatro Dios quien ayuda a los que no se puedan No todos pueden cuidarse de si mismos, y of our diocese (especially my St. Mary ayudar a ellos mismos. Todos nosotros si sean pobres materialmente o atrapados family which has carried me greatly). After semanas en preparación para el I decided to enter formation I had a major cumpleaños de Cristo en la Navidad, es un necesitamos y queremos ser salvados y en la pobreza o depresión, compulsión, decision to make, which diocese should I tiempo para prepararnos para el evento más rescatados, y Dios ha mandado el que temor o adicción, su voces de necesidad study for (Dallas or San Angelo)? I am grande de toda la historia humana, cuando puede llenar todas nuestras esperanzas y nos continúan rogando que seamos su inter- obviously studying for this wonderful nuestro Dios llegó a ser como nosotros con nuestros deseos en la persona de Cristo cesores, de darles una mano para ayudarlos. Diocese of San Angelo and this is so el nacimiento de Cristo Jesús. La verdadera Jesús. Al prepararnos para celebrar la veni- Adviento se trata de que recibamos el don because I am in love with the people, the razón de la temporada es para recordar que da de Cristo entre nosotros durante la tem- de Dios de nueva esperanza para nuestras land, and knowing that if it was not for you nuestro Dios nos ama hasta el punto de porada del Adviento, necesitamos especial- vidas y compartir esta esperanza con otras I probably would not be discerning my pedirle a su propio hijo que llegara ser mente recordar la razón principal por la personas que se encuentran sin ayuda y sin vocation right now. During my years of for- como uno de nosotros para traernos el amor cual Él vino—para salvarnos, y para traer- esperanza. mation I have had the wonderful opportu- y perdón de Dios y enseñarnos como vivir nos la misericordia de Dios y el perdón, y Adviento es el tiempo de preparación nity to study Spanish, por eso puedo como hijos de nuestro Padre Celestial. Esto para guiarnos a una paz eterna con Dios, para la celebración esperanzada y gozosa hablar con la gente en Español si me inspira en nosotros una gran esperanza y nuestro Padre. del cumpleaños de Cristo en la Navidad. La necesitan. I enjoy playing sports and vari- confianza. Por lo tanto, Adviento es una Durante los días de la temporada de temporada de la Navidad ciertamente debe ous outdoor activities; I also enjoy eating llamada para un nuevo comienzo, para una Adviento, necesitamos clamar a Cristo ser celebrada durante el tiempo de la all kinds of food (one reason Thanksgiving nueva esperanza, una esperanza que inspira quien es nuestra esperanza y nuestra sal- Navidad dado a nosotros por la Iglesia, and Christmas are my favorite holidays). I a los que están en una oscuridad profunda, vación como los dos hombres ciegos del pero debemos recordar que la preparación thank you all for your continued support una esperanza para la gente que se siente evangelio—“Jesús, ten piedad de para este día gozoso es 90% de su cele- and prayers. Please continue to pray and abandonada y sin dirección, una esperanza nosotros!” Todos nosotros necesitamos la bración. Sin embargo, nuestra Navidad no to challenge me that I may become a piedad y misericordia de Dios, y durante el good holy priest. para la gente que siente la necesidad de ser salvada y rescatada. Adviento, a la vez, somos llamados a ser (Please See ADVIENTO/21) Las lecturas de las Escrituras para nues- agentes de Dios de misericordia y com- The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 5 New Church Rises in Iraan

A new beginning for Iraan’s St. Francis of Assisi

The Angelus a place to establish a church. The location had at one shipers. On October 16, 1983, the newly converted time been a medical clinic that belonged to Dr. church was dedicated and named after St. Francis of IRAAN — The town of Iraan came into existence Vincent Sharrod, who had moved his practice from Assisi. The old church building, though small, has in the late 1920s when oil was discovered west of the Iraan to Odessa and, after his Iraan office had set served as CCD classrooms. Pecos. As towns develop and grow, one of the first vacant for many years, donated the building and prop- About four years ago, parishioners started talking things built are schools and churches. But for erty to the Catholic Diocese. Local residents helped to about the need for a new church. Some residents of Catholics in Iraan such was not the case. The early transform the former medical office and remodel it Iraan preferred to travel to Ozona, Sheffield, or Catholics of Iraan had to travel to nearby towns to into a church. McCamey for Mass, while others simply stayed at attend Mass. Some people went to Sheffield or When the church was nearly completed, a fire broke home due to the inadequacy and poor condition of the Rankin while others went to McCamey. out. As a result, support beams had to be placed into old church. After much discussion, the parish was In the 1960s, for a short while, Father Alvin Wilde the building to support the sagging ceiling as a result given permission by Bishop Michael Pfeifer to begin would travel from McCamey to Iraan and say Mass at of the fire. While the beams kept the roof from col- raising funds to construct a new church. The idea was the community center. Finally, after decades of being lapsing, they also reduced the seating capacity of the without a place of worship, the people of Iraan found church to about 50 and blocked the view of wor- (Please See IRAAN/19)

Top, Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, speaking at the opening of the new St. Francis of Assisi Church, in Iraan, on Tuesday, November 19; at left, Bishop Pfeifer conse- crates the church’s new altar, and at right the choir at St. Francis. (Photos by Jimmy Patterson/The Angelus.) Page 6 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus Statue of St. Michael, defender of God’s people, consecrated in Rome By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI MICHAEL: THE CHAMPION OF TO CAST THE EVIL ONE OUTSIDE GOD’S PRIMACY VATICAN CITY STATE A few months ago, when Pope Francis, There are several artistic works in the Even if the devil always tries to scratch accompanied by Pope Emeritus Benedict Vatican Gardens; however, this one, which the Archangel's face and man's face, God XVI, blessed a statue of St. Michael the is added today, assumes a place of particu- is stronger; the victory is His and His sal- Archangel in the Vatican Gardens and lar importance, be it for its location, be it vation is offered to every man. We are not consecrated the Vatican City to St. for the meaning it expresses. In fact, it’s alone in life's journey and trials; we are Michael, asking the saint’s protection not only a celebratory work, but an invita- accompanied and sustained by the Angels from evil, Pope Francis spoke these words tion to reflection and prayer, which is well of God who offer, so to speak, their wings about this great Archangel of God: inserted in the Year of Faith. Michael — to help us surmount so many dangers, to We have gathered here in the Vatican which means: “Who is like unto God?” — be able to fly high in regard to those reali- Gardens to inaugurate a monument to is the champion of God’s primacy, of His ties that can weigh down our life or drag Saint Michael the Archangel, patron of the transcendence and power. Michael fights us down. On consecrating Vatican City Vatican City State. It is an initiative to re-establish divine justice; he defends State to Saint Michael the Archangel, we planned some time ago, with the approval the People of God from its enemies and ask him to defend us from the Evil One of Pope Benedict XVI, to whom always above all of the enemy par excellence, the and to cast him outside. go our affection and gratitude and to devil. And Saint Michael triumphs because As bishop of the Diocese of San whom we wish to express our great joy to it is God who acts in him. This sculpture, Angelo, I pray that St. Michael the have him present here in our midst today. then, reminds us that evil has been van- Archangel, my patron saint, watch over My heartfelt thank you! quished, the accuser is unmasked, his head and protect all the people of our diocese, is crushed, because salvation was accom- and especially defend all of us from the Artwork of St. Michael the plished once and for all in the Blood of devil and his fallen angels. Arcangel, at left. Christ. Senior adult ministry must be given more attention in diocese

By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI Vincentian Father Jose- Maria Lusarreta delivers If we carefully review the ministries in our churches, rolls to women at the it is evident that Senior Adult Ministry (SAM) is one of daily luncheon for the the least developed. Every other ministry that we can elderly at "Casa de point to in the Church has much more development than Abuelos" ("Grandparents the ministry geared to serve adults. Some casually brush House") in Havana Feb. 9. aside the need for this ministry by saying: “Oh, they can (CNS Photo) take care of themselves. You know they go to be a cer- tain age, what can we offer these old folks anyway?” Senior Adult Ministry means many different things to many different people. To some it might mean Bible study, to others perhaps it means fellowship and trans- portation. Some have even referred to this ministry as bingo, brownies, and bus trips. Certainly there is a fel- lowship and socialization factor in Senior Adult Ministry, but we must give attention to what the main purpose for this ministry for adults is all about. A good definition for Senior Adult Ministry is that it is the creation and the execution of spiritual development activities, opportunities and services, all designed to enrich the connection of the senior adult with God. The needs of senior adults today. When we neglect the senior In the communities of our diocese, we need a new core of this ministry is relationship with God. We are members in our Church, we are neglecting an essential agenda for senior life folks. This agenda must genuinely never too young, nor too old, for this relationship, as this power element of the Church. Senior adults are the peo- and sincerely include senior adults in the total life of the is what the Christian life is all about. ple that laid the cornerstone in our churches. These are Church, inviting them to become creative and set new The ministry for senior adults must be personal, practi- the people that gave the money to build the pews and courses for holistic human productivity. We need to cal and relevant. In other words, we are talking about put on the roofs. These are the people that brought their involve the senior adults themselves in this ministry, those issues and things that are important in the lives of children to be baptized and to share in the other developing with them goals and objectives and direc- senior adults. We can’t be talking about spiritual devel- Sacraments and services of the Church. Senior Adults tions that can help to enrich their total lives. opment as something that is divorced from and void of are truly the backbone of the Church. We can’t turn our I strongly encourage all the priests, pastoral coordina- the real richness of what life is all about. Senior Adult backs on them after all that they have given to our tors and pastoral leaders of our diocese to reflect seri- Ministry, first and foremost, needs to be directed to the Church. ously on developing ministries with and for our senior person of the senior. We are talking about individual In so many ways, the future belongs to senior adults. adults. I express my deepest gratitude to all the senior people who are on an individual spiritual development Perhaps our culture will never again have the numbers members of our diocese for the many contributions— path with Jesus Christ. and proportion of adults to youth as we do right now. both spiritual and material—that they have given to the The vision for SAM encompasses the comprehensive Life extension efforts are succeeding and human Church of the Diocese of San Angelo. longevity continues to march on and on. The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 7 The Joy of the Gospel

Pope Francis, left, and, a copy of Evangelii Gaudium, “The Joy of the Gospel,” above.

Pope Francis confronts internal concerns By Francis X. Rocca try of money" and an "economy of exclusion and priests' homilies, which in his telling are all too often Catholic News Service inequality." But he makes only a few broad references moralistic, unlearned, disorganized and verbose. to the "crude and superficial" intolerance of unbelievers These problems matter, the pope makes clear, insofar VATICAN CITY — When the Synod of Bishops on and the danger a distorted pluralism poses to religious as they impede efforts to make the church's structures the new evangelization met at the Vatican in October freedom. "more mission-oriented, to make ordinary pastoral 2012, among the top items on the agenda was the threat By contrast, Pope Francis devotes much of his exhor- activity on every level more inclusive and open, and to of militant secularism in a post-Christian West. tation to the shortcomings of the church itself. He inspire in pastoral workers a constant desire to go forth "It is as if a tsunami of secular influence has swept laments its "excessive centralization" in the Vatican, and in this way to elicit a positive response from all across the cultural landscape, taking with it such socie- which he finds a hindrance to the church's "missionary those whom Jesus summons to friendship with him." tal markers as marriage, family, the concept of the com- outreach." He complains about members of religious It is thus surprising that, with the possible exception mon good and objective right and wrong," and posing orders who show an "inordinate concern for their per- of a reference to the "pain and the shame we feel at the new impediments to spreading the Gospel, Cardinal sonal freedom and relaxation," and about priests sins of some members of our church," Pope Francis Donald W. Wuerl of Washington, the synod's relator, "obsessed with protecting their free time." does not even allude to what most people inside and told the gathering at its first working session. The pope criticizes those who show an "ostentatious outside the church would regard as its greatest scandal The same topic arose repeatedly in addresses by preoccupation with the liturgy, doctrine and the church's of recent years: the sexual abuse of minors by priests. synod fathers, especially those from Europe and North prestige, but without any concern that the Gospel have a This scandal is not, strictly speaking, a question of America, and in the final propositions they gave the real impact on God's faithful people and the concrete evangelization. But as Pope Benedict wrote to the pope as the basis for his post-synodal apostolic exhorta- needs of the present time." He upbraids Catholics with a Catholics of Ireland in March 2010, church leaders' fail- tion. But Pope Benedict XVI resigned before he could "business mentality, caught up with management, statis- ures to prevent and punish clerical sex abuse "have write such a document, leaving the task to his successor, tics, plans and evaluations, whose principal beneficiary obscured the light of the Gospel to a degree that not who finally responded with "Evangelii Gaudium" ("The is not God's people but the church as an institution." even centuries of persecution succeeded in doing." Joy of the Gospel"), published Nov. 26. And he regrets that women do not yet have a sufficient Over the last decade, bishops' conferences in a num- In writing the apostolic exhortation, Pope Francis role in decision-making within the church. ber of countries, including the United States and departed from usual practice and declined to use the Pope Francis also deplores divisiveness within the Canada, have taken systematic action to protect children draft provided by synod officials. The result is a text in ranks, writing: "It always pains me greatly to discover from this threat, and the Vatican has instructed the rest the pope's distinctive voice and focused on his particu- how some Christian communities, and even consecrated of the world's bishops to do likewise. Yet by all lar concerns. Among the features that distinguish persons, can tolerate different forms of enmity, division, accounts the process is still far from complete. Carrying "Evangelii Gaudium" from the synod that gave rise to calumny, defamation, vendetta, jealousy and the desire it out will presumably be a priority for Pope Francis, as it, none is more striking than how little attention it pays to impose certain ideas at all costs, and even persecu- part of his campaign to reform and purify the church at to the problem of secularism. tions which appear as veritable witch hunts. Whom are every level for the sake of its essential evangelical mis- The pope criticizes contemporary society and culture, we going to evangelize if this is the way we act?" sion. especially in the world's richer nations, for their "idola- Most remarkably, the pope devotes nearly a tenth of the entire document to suggestions for improving Page 8 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus Catholic Voices When in love, be prepared for the coming heartbreaks By Fr. Ron Rolheiser woman who has brought so much joy and well. Indeed, not so subtle is the wish that We replicate this too, more than we meaning to his life will now be drawing a certain unhappiness will befall that think, in our good deeds and generosity "Be careful not to seek yourself in love, her life from someone else. Indeed she is other, so that he or she will know that it towards others. We can be generous, big- you can end up with a broken heart that dancing and celebrating at this very was a mistake to no longer remain prima- hearted, self- sacrificing, and helpful, as way." moment when his grief in losing her is so rily invested in us. long as we are assured that we are need- Therese of Lisieux great. That's the antithesis of the blessing we ed, that we are important, that nobody wrote that. But what But, despite the pain, his heart is at see at the end of Les Miserables where else can quite provide what we are giving. exactly does she mean, peace, joyful even, at the knowledge that Jean Val Jean, despite the pain of his own But, should we one day find out that given that most of the the young man she has fallen in love with loss, can rejoice that someone else can be someone else has arrived who is wanted time love will break our and is marrying will provide her with the a more powerful instrument of happiness more than we are, we can very quickly hearts anyway even if very joy that he, as her father, could not than he in his daughter's life. He can be become cool and distant, resentful even, we're not seeking our- give her. In the moment of his deepest happy because his love is for his daughter, because someone else is providing a help selves? loss, he is able to be happy for her and to not for himself. and a happiness instead of us, perhaps The heart breaks in withdraw quietly without bitterness into Notice what underlies a murder-suicide. healthier and deeper than ours. The different ways. It can Rolheiser that self- effacement and solitude that loss There is a broken heart, but when it resentment we feel betrays that, to a large break in a way that soft- and aging eventually ask of us all. As his breaks a rage spews forth that reveals measure, what we were seeking in our ens, purifies, and stretches it in love and heart is breaking, he blesses and lets go, that, all along, the love has not been for generosity was ourselves, not someone selflessness, or it can break in way that knowing that what is most important, his the other but for oneself. The cold truth else's happiness. makes it bitter, jealous, and cold. daughter's happiness, is assured and that, becomes clear: If I can't be the main per- All of this, of course, can be even more Heartbreaks can be warm or cold and, given the mystery of love, his own rela- son in her life, nobody will be! Better her painfully true when we fall in love and either way, the pain will bring us to our tionship to his daughter is ensured by his dead, than without me! What kind of love experience the heartaches and heartbreaks knees and that moment will define us, one gracefully letting go. has this been along the way? that go with that. way or the other. Let's look at an exam- That's one example of a heart breaking, We replicate this in subtle ways: Indeed And so is a doctor's warning, a health ple: in a good way. The opposite is the heart- many of the tears we shed are cried not warning, a fair warning: "Be careful not At the end of the Victor Hugo's, Les break we experience when we lose some- for others but for ourselves. We may think to seek yourself in love, you can end up Miserables, there's a particularly poignant body and our hearts freeze over in jeal- we're crying about someone else's pain, with a broken heart that way." scene where Jean Val Jean, now an old ousy and bitterness. What that bitterness but, more often than not, what is revealed ——— man, is praying in an inordinately lonely and coldness reveal in fact is that, all in our tears is more our own possessive- moment. It's the evening of his adopted along, it was not the other's well-being we ness than our compassion, more our own Ronald Rolheiser, a Roman Catholic daughter's wedding, a celebration he is had been seeking, but our own. The proof brokenness than the wounds over which priest and member of the Missionary unable to attend. He is on his knees, is that now, when we can no longer be the we think we are weeping. In our tears, Oblates of Mary Immaculate, is president painfully alone, physically ill, emotionally primary relationship in that other person's just as in love, we are often unconsciously of the Oblate School of Theology in San drained, and acutely aware that the young life, we no longer really wish him or her seeking ourselves. Antonio. C.S. Lewis: Evangelizing with the great teller of the Christian tale By Fr. Robert Barron university. He was not someone to whom religious con- doctrinal statements can be distilled from the Biblical viction came naturally or effortlessly; he had to work his revelation (in fact, that’s what most of formal theology Two famous men died on November 22, 1963. The way to it, in the face of often harsh opposition, both does), but revelation is contained primarily in narrative first did so in the most dramatic way possible, assassi- interior and exterior. This very personal struggle gives form—and this matters profoundly. The Bible tells the nated in the full glare of publicity on the streets of him credibility with the millions today who want to story of how God’s good creation, sullied by sin, is Dallas; the second in relative obscurity, believe but who find ideological secularism and militant restored through the return of God himself as king. This in the upstairs bedroom of his simple atheism enormously challenging. account contains many subplots and it is surrounded by home on the outskirts of Oxford, A second reason why Lewis was successful was that a plethora of poetry, psalms, wisdom sayings, and other England. John F. Kennedy’s legacy has, he came at Christian apologetics primarily from a liter- material that support it—but finally, the Bible is a rol- of course, been enormous, but I wonder ary rather than a philosophical point of view. I want to licking adventure story, full of drama, reversals, adven- whether C.S. Lewis has actually, in the be careful not to overstate the case here: Lewis certain- ture, and marked by a happy and triumphant ending. course of these past 50 years, had a ly understood philosophy and used it at times in his Throughout his career, and in a variety of works, greater impact on the culture than his apologetics both effectively and creatively. Think, for Lewis exulted in telling and re-telling this story. Thus, counterpart. When he died at the age of instance, of the subtle analysis offered in his book in his most famous work of apologetics, Mere 65, Lewis’s reputation was on the wane, Barron Miracles. But Lewis was, first and foremost, a man of Christianity, he explained that the one God had to do but he has enjoyed an extraordinary letters—a poet and storyteller. His area of academic battle with the dark spiritual power that had unjustly posthumous vogue, as two successive generations have specialization was the literature of the 16th century—he taken possession of his world—which is why the Christ delighted in his literary criticism, his novels, and above wrote with tremendous insight on Milton—and his first child was obliged to arrive so surreptitiously, so clan- all, his clever and incisive Christian apologetics. published writings were poems. destinely, sneaking, as it were, behind enemy lines. The One reason why Lewis has proven so persuasive to This background allowed him to see something which very same tale is told in the Chronicles of Narnia. But so many is that he was compelled to undergo a transi- is often overlooked in more academic and analytical in that imaginative setting, the devil becomes the White tion—halting, painful, anguished—from non-belief to presentations of the Christian faith, namely, that Witch, who has plunged Narnia into a 100 years of belief. Though he had been brought up in a Christian Christianity is, at bottom, a narrative, a story, an account environment, he had lost his faith by the time he entered of the dramatic things that God has done. Certainly (Please See BARRON/23) The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 9 Catholic Voices II War on poor now the central defining issue in American politics By Stephen Kent undeserving," he wrote. Community organizing is about power pope's sister said in an interview. His pri- Catholic News Service On the front lines of this war, defend- and power engenders fear. Some feel the ority was the neediest in his archdiocese, ing the poor, is the Catholic Campaign poor should accept their place and gladly which meant he often spent Sundays or There is an ongoing war on the poor for Human Development. As regular as accept assistance to cope with their mis- holidays in the city's shantytowns instead being waged in this nation, says Nobel turkey and football on Thanksgiving, this erable lot in life rather than to change of attending the family "asado" or barbe- Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman. time of year brings criticism of that what brings about poverty. cue, she said. "There is indeed a agency for doing what the church should So many, myself included, are satisfied We look to some agents to implement war on the poor, be about. to use agents to carry out our responsibil- our charity and so it should be. We all coinciding with and Some comes from a simple misunder- ity rather than to directly encounter the can't go to the storm-ravaged Philippines deepening the pain standing. It is a not the Catholic cam- poor. It is efficient and avoids encounter. and offer direct assistance. But we can go from a troubled paign for handouts, but for development: Programs such as CCHD now have a to a soup kitchen and look the poor in the economy. And that to develop is to empower. strong advocate in high places. There's a face (in addition to making financial con- war is now the cen- The agency's mission is "to address the new sheriff in town. Get used to the new tributions). tral, defining issue root causes of poverty in America reality. If the central defining issue of of American poli- through promotion and support of com- Pope Francis is saying writing checks American politics is the attitude toward tics," he recently munity-controlled, self-help organizations isn't enough. It is necessary to be closer the poor, as Krugman says, that is where wrote in The New York Kent and through transformative education." to the disenfranchised and the poor. Even the church in the United States belongs. Times. It is not similar to giving assistance to though Pope Francis is very close to his Right now. "There's not much about fiscal respon- victims after a massive natural disaster. It family, as archbishop of Buenos Aires he --- sibility, but there's a lot about how the is meant to change the system and that would often skip their barbecues to spend Kent is the retired editor of archdioce- government is rewarding the lazy and leads to a certain amount of discomfort. Sundays or holidays with the poor, the san newspapers in Omaha and Seattle. 'Tis the season ... to calm down We may have a problem

By Maureen Pratt packed holiday season. Many peo- ter, unconditional love and even Catholic News Service ple I have spoken with, myself too-cute insistence in "how many included, have had extremely dif- more days until ..." Peace on earth. Good will ficult lives this year, peppered It is to these children that histo- toward all. Comfort and joy. Light with loss, financial worry and ry, traditions and -- most important and love. Prosperity. Purpose. health concerns. -- faith practices are passed. There Did last year's It might even seem appealing to is no time like the holidays to rein- wishes as hibernate through the next six or force the values and faith that expressed in eight weeks, only emerging when form the backbone for the oft-sung songs and greet- the new year is underway. But if "people of good will." ings come to we step back a bit from the adult- The next few weeks is for the pass in 2013? ness of how we feel, the bone- child in all of us. Medical studies Or, as we weary, emotionally drained indi- show the importance of laughter approach anoth- vidual buffeted by external pres- and play, the human need to take er holiday sea- sures and internal angst, we might time for rest and relaxation. son, with anoth- begin to feel differently. The days of Thanksgiving and er round of carols Pratt This time of year, unlike other Christmas are crucial for we who and cards, are you feeling tired? weeks and months, is not for the desire to be better, do better and Hollow? Discouraged? world-worn cynic, but for the reflect all the good that God has Unfulfilled? child. given us. We are celebrating a Are you wondering, "What's the We can choose to focus on the marvelous gift, one given freely, point to these weeks of celebra- child born in Bethlehem. This with complete love. Simply put, if tion, gift-giving, sleep-depriva- period is about the birth of Jesus we take the holidays too seriously, tion-causing holiday responsibili- Christ, in a manger, far from glitz we will seriously miss the point. ties and reunions with people I and glamour. He is the point of Even if this year has been up don't have much contact with the this season, and no special interest and down, or more down than up, other 10 or 11 months of the year, group or hectic schedule can tear the point of the holiday season is let alone really like?" us from this wondrous, peace-giv- not to erode well-being and heap Are you already looking past ing gift from God, his only son, stress upon stress. Let's take the December and into a new year come down to earth. This season opportunity to breathe deeply, when it might seem that troubles is for renewal of appreciation of enjoy the world with childlike will only continue? our faith. eyes and renew our faith, energy It is difficult to take off stress This season is for the children and focus so that no matter what and put on cheer at any time of among us who have no inhibitions the next year brings we will meet year, let alone during the jam- about expressing delight in laugh- it with courage and strength. Page 10 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics Bishops plan to address Sex, truth and the pornography issue in statement set for 2015 illumination of our guilt By Dennis Sadowski By Fr Tad Pacholczyk and personally. Simply put, she entered into the Catholic News Service worst possible state of spiritual affairs. Guilt has gotten a lot of bad press The potential that she had for any deep BALTIMORE — The U.S. bishops Nov. 12 approved the devel- recently. We live in an age where guilt relationships with members of the opposite opment of a pastoral statement on the dangers pornography poses to is practically always something bad, sex was dashed by the way she resolved her family life that would serve as a teaching tool for church leaders. something to get past with the help of guilt: men became objects for her crafty On Day Two of their annual fall general assembly in Baltimore, a shrink. Particularly when discussing genius, and her relationships were reduced to the bishops voted 226 to 5 to allow the Committee on Laity, sex, people will declare that religion power plays and manipulation. She gradually Marriage, Family Life and Youth to develop the statement. and morality do nothing more than became an empty shell of a woman, with lit- Developing such a statement falls in line with an objective of the make people feel guilty. Andrew tle left that was genuine inside of her. She U.S. Conference of catholic Bishops' 2013-16 strategic plan to Aaron, a sex and marriage therapist in had encountered real guilt in her life, but had address pornography and its dangerous effects on family life. New Bedford, Massachusetts seems to Pacholczyk failed to engage it in a way that could lead to The committee planned to bring a draft to the bishops in 2015. It subscribe to this view: “Through centuries,” he growth, conversion and fulfillment, and her ther- would be the first formal statement on pornography issued by the writes, “religious education has associated sex apist likewise failed her, because he was not sen- bishops as a body. with what is wrong and sinful rather than what is sitive to the value of true guilt and the deepest In presenting the case for such a statement, Bishop Richard J. sacred. Instead of an expression of the divine, sex human needs reflected in that guilt — the need to Malone of Buffalo, N.Y. (and current administrator of the Diocese is suspiciously regarded as weakness of the flesh. forgive and to be forgiven. of Portland, Maine), the incoming chair of the committee, said that The result of this influence is that sexuality, a A few years back, Naomi Wolf wrote about a pornography poses continuing pastoral challenges for the clergy natural part of being human, is tainted with friend of hers who was a "Cornell-educated, and the faithful. shame, guilt, and ambivalence.” urban, Democratic-voting 40-year-old cardiolo- "The more pornography spreads, the more violent and debased it Every instance of erotic satisfaction, sexual gist." This friend had once had an abortion, and becomes and the more it exploits the men and women who are part activity or orgasm, however, cannot be automati- afterwards she said something Wolf found very of the industry," he explained. cally branded as sacred or as a divine manifesta- interesting: "You know how in the Greek myths Citing the explosion of pornography on the Internet and its tion. We all recognize how easily the unbridled when you kill a relative you are pursued by exploitation of women, men and children, Bishop Kevin C. pursuit of sexual gratification can become an Furies? For months it was as if baby Furies were Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Ind., outgoing chairman of the exploitative, self-centered and demeaning enter- pursuing me." bishops' Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth, told prise. “Context” matters critically when it comes No matter what our education or background, Catholic News Service prior to the meeting that committee mem- to getting sex right, and it is too easy in the sexu- no matter what our level of sophistication may bers felt it was time for the USCCB to bring its moral voice to the ally permissive environment of today's society to be, we have all received the gift of conscience, worldwide debate. miss the core truth that the unique context for and the gift of “good guilt” that is ordered to "There's a lot of concern about the increasing availability and human sexual activity is a very specific one, helping us confront ourselves and turn away from consumption of pornography and its effect on marriages and fami- namely, the beautiful setting of marriage, with its wrongdoing. Pushing away our good guilt or hid- lies and on youth," Bishop Rhoades explained. "Pornography has mutual commitment and openness to children. ing it under the rug only makes our situation become more pervasive than it's ever been in history. Father Thomas O'Donnell, S.J. in his worse. We are the only creatures in the animal "Pornography is having such a detrimental effect that we thought "Medicine and Christian Morality" distills the kingdom capable of illuminating our guilt, of it would be good to have the bishops as a whole body address this matter to its essence in this way: "In the moral asking why we feel guilty. issue. It's not been before that whole body. It's risen to that level of order, all deliberately induced venereal pleasure Guilt is like a pain of the soul, and pain often concern, I think," he said. is restricted to marriage and related in some way, indicates that something is wrong and we should Family Safe Media, an online service offering families tips for either immediately or remotely, to a proper mari- see a doctor. Our guilty feelings about wrongs or dealing with profanity, promiscuity and violence in the media, esti- tal act." From this perspective, the real harms we evils we have committed should lead us to seek mates that 4.2 million websites -- 12 percent of the all websites bring upon ourselves and others when seeking to the Divine Physician, in the Sacrament of worldwide -- feature pornography. It projects that the industry gen- satisfy the sexual impulse outside of its specific Reconciliation, where God's healing touch is per- erates $57 billion annually through a variety of media. context should, in fact, elicit feelings of guilt on sonally experienced. Forgiveness from God and Bishop Rhoades cited several concerns arising from pornogra- our part. neighbor leads us to healing and wholeness. In phy's pervasiveness, including children facing increasing exposure To put it simply, there is such a thing as “good this sense, "good guilt" points to possibilities of to it, addiction, and marital infidelity and divorce. guilt,” which manifests our own inner awareness inner renewal and freedom. By becoming attuned "Another factor is priests reporting as confessor the growing of how we have acted against what is good for to our guilt, and addressing it honestly, we dis- number of those confessing pornography use," the bishop added. us, and violated the objective moral order. cover a real cause for hope. "Priests are seeking assistance on how to council people. There's a I recall a story of a woman who committed growing number of women viewing it, but the vast majority is still adultery, and over time she struggled with feel- Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doc- men," Bishop Rhoades said. ings of guilt. What she ended up doing, in this torate in neuroscience from Yale and did post- "It has destroyed that trust and the intimacy between a husband situation, was to rationalize her guilt away with doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the and wife. That can be very tragic," he added. the help of her therapist. He managed to convince diocese of Fall River, MA, and serves as the Bishop Rhoades was ending his three-year term as committee her that she was a "genius of friendship." The Director of Education at The National Catholic chairman at the end of the bishops' meeting. His successor, Bishop woman became "spiritually thinner" in her rela- Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. See www.ncb- Richard J. Malone of Buffalo, N.Y. and apostolic administrator of tionships with men, and ceased to grow humanly center.org the Diocese of Portland, Maine, will oversee the drafting of the statement. The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 11 Mertzon young people join 23,000 at National Catholic Youth Conference By Sister Adelina Garcia Office of Education and Formation Diocese of San Angelo

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — On November 21, a group of young people and their chaperones from St. Peter Mission in Mertzon began their journey via shuttle and jet plane to Indianapolis, Ind., for the National Catholic Youth Conference held November 21- 23. This conference, held biennially, counted 23,000 participants this year at Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indianapolis Conference Center downtown. The theme of the conference was “Signed, Sealed and Delivered.” Emcee Jesse Manibusan stressed how the young people are the church right here, right now. They are called to welcome everyone. They are signed by their baptism, sealed by their confirmation, and delivered from sin by Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. Keynote speakers included Bob Perron, Jackie Francois, and Ansel Augustine. They shared their thoughts of being adopted children of God who are part of a forever family, being a person of faith and discipleship, and how we bear crosses and how these experiences can bring us closer to God. The theme park, Inspiration Junction, an exhibit hall set up to reflect the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit and offered the partici- pants opportunities to taken advantage of resources, visit voca- tion and college exhibits, and take part in service opportunities. Some made baby blankets, scarves, and packed food for the poor and hungry locally and in other parts of the world. Everyone had a wonderful time attending workshops, experienc- ing various forms of prayer, hearing great music, listening to challenging keynote speakers, meeting new people from all over country and celebrating their faith. In addition to other bishops present, our own Bishop Michael Pfeifer was in attendance as always. He truly affirms and supports the Young Church. Scenes from a Youth Conference Many thanks to the community of St. Peter for their support in Young people and chaperones from Mertzon’s St. Peter helping to make this trip possible. The conference certainly had Mission, top and above, and at left, Bishop Pfeifer with one of a wonderful impact on the participants. The conference conclud- the Mertzon attendees. (Courtesy photos) ed with the celebration of Eucharist. Diocese of San Angelo to begin Project Rachel Ministry By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI menting Project Rachel, a post-abortion tions. For example, there is a pro-life lar programs to support the efforts of the program approved by the USCCB. Mass in the deanery each month and Life Centers in Midland, Odessa, and In the forty years following the infa- Project Rachel will begin by being imple- there will be an Evening of Prayer and Andrews, and the Pregnancy Resource mous Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton mented as a collaborative ministry Sharing for the unborn and victims of Center in Abilene. These centers already decisions legalizing abortion on demand between the parishes of the San Angelo abortion at Christ the King Retreat Center have some post-abortion programs, help- in our nation, the Catholic Bishops have Deanery and the Pregnancy Help Center (CKRC) on Wednesday, December 11, at ing women who have had abortions. In responded with significant efforts of edu- in San Angelo. The Pregnancy Help 6:30 pm. CKRC will also host a city- the months ahead we will report the cation, public policy, prayer, and pastoral Center already provides counseling serv- wide Mass for the unborn and victims of progress and successes in the West Texas care. Over these years, the Church has ices to post-abortive victims. abortion on Friday, December 20, at 6:00 Angelus. reached out with particular pastoral care As we implement Project Rachel, our pm. and will offer two Rachel’s Vineyard It is our hope that Project Rachel will to those who have been involved in the goal is to create joint awareness and out- weekends on January 17-19 and May 16- help provide the assurance to those tragedy of abortion. reach between the parishes in the San 18, 2014. Later on, other dates will be involved in abortion that will enable them Recently, because of our many, many Angelo Deanery and the Pregnancy Help shared as regards bringing people togeth- to forgive themselves and others, which prayers and rulings by the Texas Center. Local priests, along with qualified er for prayer and sharing. are essential steps to healing. We need to Legislature resulted in the closing of all parishioners, will be asked to provide Project Rachel is being established first remember, that we Catholics have the three Planned Parenthood facilities in our pastoral counseling, spiritual guidance, as a pilot program in the San Angelo wonderful Sacrament of Reconciliation, diocese. As a result, there has been a sig- prayer support, Sacrament of Deanery and already I and the Diocesan God’s merciful healing and forgiveness nificant increase in women seeking serv- Reconciliation, support groups, and other Pro-Life Director are asking the other that can bring God’s mercy, pardon, and ices. In seeking to rise up and meet some liturgical opportunities. Be looking in deaneries, working with the deanery Pro- healing love to women who have had of the needs of these women, I am imple- your parish bulletins for dates and loca- Life Director, to begin establishing simi- abortions. Page 12 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 13 Help for the Philippines Help for the Philippines West Texas raises $1.5 million for typhoon victims in Philippines

By Jimmy Patterson

Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI, of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, announced November 27 that $500,000 was raised in just one week and will be combined with a $1 million gift pledged by an anonymous donor in the Permian Basin for a total gift of $1.5 million for the victims of the cata- strophic typhoon that struck the Philippines, November 8. More than 160 individuals, groups, churches and foundations played important roles in help- ing raise $500,000 in donations, and the donor has indicated that the release of the $1 million will be sent to Catholic Relief Services to fulfill the com- mitment of the match. CRS is providing emergency support and relief to the victims and all funds collected will be directed to the people of the Philippines through CRS. In November, an anonymous donor pledged to match 2-to-1 all donations raised up to $500,000 for the purpose of assisting the most severely affected victims of the typhoon. “I am ecstatic and filled with joy to know that through the generosity of many, many people, including the Diocese of San Angelo, with the encour- agement and active assistance of Catholic Relief Services (CRS), that the $1M match has been met,” said Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, of the Diocese of San Angelo. Bishop Pfeifer noted that he received the joyful news around noon, Wednesday, November 27, 2013 from CRS, that the match had officially been met and the donor would soon be meeting the match. Bishop Pfeifer said last week he was confident the $500,000 required by the anonymous donor could be raised within a week’s time; the donor had allowed for the match to be raised by the end of December. Bishop Pfeifer points out that this generous donation comes in a wonderful time of the year as we celebrate Thanksgiving Day, a time to thank God for the many blessings we have, and a special way of thanking God for our blessings and gifts is to share our gifts with others who have much less than we do. “We are helping to make Thanksgiving happen for the hundreds of thou- sands of victims affected by the catastrophic typhoon in the Philippine Islands,” Pfeifer said. “I am sure those affected by this terrible disaster are very grateful for this generous, as well as other generous donations.” Filipino-American Assoc. raises $25k at SEAS event To help meet the match of $1 million, the Diocese of San Angelo alone The Angelus Facebook, securing the St. Elizabeth Ann we didn’t have anybody coming, the food the volunteers, the charity of those who had given $96,820.57 as of November 27, 2013. Bishop Pfeifer points out Seton Church Parlor as well as the late- will be donated to Jesus House,” said donated the desserts and the overwhelm- that he is deeply grateful to the many generous donors who stepped forward The Filipino-American Association of night, early-morning cooking and plating Allan Espina, president of the FAA. ing response and assistance that the peo- to make this match happen and for the many other generous donations that the Permian Basin sponsored the “Plate of the food. The FAA pre-sold 510 tickets “People started trickling in after the 10 ple of West Texas conveyed. We were are being sent to thousands and thousands who are struggling just to stay for a Cause” fund-raiser, raising $25,365 and were ready to sell as many as 600 am mass. We even delivered some plates able to raise $25,365 that day and more is alive in the Philippines. for Filipino victims of the November 8 plates. to hospitals in Odessa as there were nurs- coming in. The money will go a long Bishop Pfeifer pointed out that he hopes that many more major donors will Typhoon Haiyan. The fund-raiser day started in 28- es and hospital employees who purchased way in the support of those stricken by come forward individually, or as a corporation or commercial group, to pro- Preparations for the fund-raiser, held degree temperatures but that did not deter tickets in advance. The turnout was very the typhoon. We have sent the funds pose similar fundraising matches. This is a splendid way of encouraging peo- November 24, started weeks earlier with the fire burning within all of the associa- good and we prepared just enough food raised to assist organizations in almost ple to give generously when they know there is a particular goal in mind. the selling of tickets, requests for dona- tion officers and volunteers who drove to feed all those who wanted to support eight of the provinces affected by the Bishop Pfeifer and CRS are deeply grateful to all those who have made tion from organizations in the area and icy roads to get to the venue and help the cause. calamity. Again, I would like to convey this generous match possible, and an enormous gratitude is owed to the fellow Permian Basin Filipino and with the food preparation and plating. “As president of the association, I am our gratitude to those who have heard our major donor who will release the $1M to be sent to the Philippine Islands Scenes from the devastation in the Philippines following a November 8 typhoon, which some experts “We were afraid nobody would come very thankful to the dedication of the cause. We are very thankful for being have deemed to be the strongest storm to have ever hit Earth. (CNS Photos). friends, a media campaign using through CRS. because of the weather and said that if officers, the support and selflessness of heard and assisted.” Page 14 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus Sister Pauline Block, Olfen native DADE CITY, Fla. — Sister Pauline Block the basics at parochial schools in New Orleans (Laura Elizabeth) of St. Leo, Fla., took her Obituary and Slidell, La., Ocala; San Antonio; Sarasota peaceful final journey to her heavenly home on and Miami, Fla. November 14, 2013. She was born on the She also served as Assistant Director of St. Bernard Matthiesen home place in Runnels called "the peanut pusher" at the station in Benedict Prep School for boys. Former stu- County, Olfen, Texas, on January 28, 1915. Rowena, to begin her life as a Florida dents who have become successful lawyers, Laura, the oldest of six, was often given the Benedictine Sister. At the convent, Laura con- doctors and school principals say they never job of watching her younger brothers and sis- tinued her education. During her novitiate, forgot their grade school teacher …“She was ters. Stories about riding a donkey, care-taking Laura changed her name to Sister Pauline tough!” Sister also prepared children for their her little brothers, feeding cows, and the new Block. She made her Final Vows on June 13, First Communion and taught catechism at the Model T Ford car are all part of her history. 1936. She said “It was a beautiful ceremony Diocesan Summer Camp Good Council. Sister Attending Olfen Catholic School until the age with a real commitment to Christ for life." She Pauline graciously undertook any task that she of 15, she traveled to St. Leo, Fla., to join the continued her education at Sacred Heart was assigned. For years she was the sisters’ Benedictine Sisters. Laura's life was greatly College in Cullman, Ala., and Saint Leo champion coif-maker (the sisters’ head-dress) influenced by the Benedictine Sisters of Olfen University. Gifted with the ability to reach and was also assigned to helped cook in the Sister School. She liked the way their life was devot- small children, her focus during her 58 year kitchen at the priory. The clothing worn by ed to community, family, and unity. Because of teaching career (1934-1992) was in elementary Sister Pauline changed with the times. She Pauline education, specializing in reading at the pri- Block this influence, she was one of five girls of the started by wearing the black veil and habit. In Olfen community that decided to join the mary level. Sister was committed to ensuring the early 60s the habits changed to a black uni- Order of Benedictine Sisters of Florida. On that every child she taught could read. Sister July 30, 1930, age 15, Laura boarded a train provided little ones with a firm grounding in (Please See SISTER BLOCK/19) MOTC makes retreat with female residents of Ron Jackson TJJD facility By Fr. Tom Barley

BROWNWOOD — The Women’s MOTC Team had its fourth annual retreat with the girls at the Ron Jackson TJJD Facility in Brownwood. Many new members joined us and experienced the Holy Spirit in our ministering. Each year the retreat seems to have a stronger effect on the girls. It also has a tremendous spiritual effect on the team members. The result of the retreat on the girls is more of the girls are coming for- ward and asking to be baptized or received into the Church or to receive Confirmation. The regular visits from the team bring a witnessing of the love of Christ to them in a way that draws them into the beginnings of their relationship with Our Lord, Jesus the Christ. Having said this, we also realize how these girls have touched our hearts, lives, and souls through their response to God’s healing love. This is witnessed in the following write-up by Lauren Moeller, a team mem- ber and a graduate student at Angelo State University.

Because of You My Life Has Changed By Lauren Moeller

“Because of you… my life has changed.” I fold shut the letter and my eyes fill with tears. For the past several years I have been a member of the Ministry of the Third Cross, which has traveled to Teams members with the Ministry of the Third Cross, which takes the ACTS retreat into correctional facilities (Courtesy Brownwood annually to put on a women’s ACTS photo). retreat for juvenile inmates in the Ron Jackson We all have our own plans for our how our lives blessing. From the surface, this ministry has allowed its Correctional Complex. When I first began this ministry, should go and we all have our own philosophies about members to spread God’s love through song, prayer, I had a conviction to reach out to the young women how God should use us to minister. However, God tells scripture, smile, word, and hope. However, as any imprisoned in Texas, to share God’s love and my time. us in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for member of the Ministry of the Third Cross will tell you, Today, three years after I first began, I realize that God you,’ declares the Lord, ‘Plans to prosper you and not prison ministry is a two-way relationship in which the didn’t lead me to this ministry to help others but rather harm you; plans for hope and a future.” Even in our inmates minister to the MOTC members as much as we he lead me to this ministry for healing and hope. hardest times, He knows what is best. And for me, He knew that the Ministry of the Third Cross would be a Please See MOTC/19 The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 15 Cardinal DiNardo, of Galveston-Houston, chosen vice president of USCCB BALTIMORE (CNS) -- Archbishop Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Ky., was Archbishop of Houston- Highlights of USCCB elected president of the U.S. Conference Galveston, right, at the Annual Meeting of Catholic Bishops by a wide margin recent USCCB Annual Nov. 12. Meeting, during which he was named the group’s BALTIMORE (CNS) -- During the Nov. 11- The archbishop, the current USCCB vice president. 12 public sessions of the annual fall gener- vice president, received 125 votes during al assembly of the U.S. Conference of the first round of balloting during the Catholic Bishops in Baltimore, the bishops: fall general assembly of the U.S. bishops 4Approved the development of a pastoral in Baltimore. statement on the dangers pornography In the voting for vice president, poses to family life that would serve as a Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of teaching tool for church leaders. The Galveston-Houston was elected to the Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life post during the third round of voting. and Youth will develop the statement, pro- He defeated Archbishop Charles J. viding a draft to the bishops in 2015. Chaput of Philadelphia, 147 to 87. 4 Archbishop Kurtz easily outdistanced Nearly unanimously approved several the nine other candidates for president, steps toward adapting the Mexican Misal who received a total of 111 votes. Romano for use in the U.S. The Mexican Cardinal DiNardo tallied the second the conference presidency. did not rise to lead the conference. translation of the missal will have Mass highest vote total with 25. The archbishop, who has headed the In 1974, Coadjutor Archbishop Leo C. propers for the U.S. calendar included, Cardinal DiNardo has headed the Louisville Archdiocese since 2007, had Byrne of St. Paul and Minneapolis, vice with publication possible as soon as fall of Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston since no immediate comment after his election president since 1971, died less than a 2015. 2006, when as coadjutor archbishop, he and acknowledged the vote with a sim- month before his term ended. Three 4 Approved adaptations for the Order of immediately succeeded Archbishop ple wave to his fellow bishops on the years later, Cardinal John J. Carberry of Celebrating Marriage and OK'd a new Joseph A. Fiorenza when he retired. floor of the assembly. St. Louis as vice president declined to translation of the Order of Confirmation for Then-Archbishop DiNardo was named a In 2010, the bishops elected then- run for the top spot because he was 73 use in U.S. dioceses. cardinal in 2007, making him the first Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New and due to retire before he could com- 4 Heard a report on the USCCB's efforts cardinal from Texas. York as president. His term was to end plete a three-year term as president. to promote and defend traditional mar- The cardinal was set to begin a three- Nov. 14 as the fall general assembly The president and vice president are riage, which stressed that recent laws concluded. elected by a simple majority from a slate year term as chairman of the Committee have placed the legal defense of marriage The election of the New York prelate, of 10 nominees. If no president or vice on Divine Worship at the conclusion of "at a critical point in this country." named a cardinal in February 2012, president is chosen after the second the assembly, but he had to vacate that 4 Heard a report on the work of Catholic seat when he was elected vice president. marked the first time since the bishops' round of voting, a third ballot is taken conference was reorganized in 1966 fol- between only the top two vote-getters on Relief Services, which highlighted what the The bishops voted to elect Bishop agency is doing for survivors of Super Arthur J. Serratelli of Paterson, N.J., to lowing the Second Vatican Council that the second ballot. a sitting vice president who sought the In this year's USCCB election, the Typhoon Haiyan. The agency has already the position over Archbishop Allen H. committed $20 million in emergency aid, Vigneron of Detroit, 114-112. presidency did not win the election. He vote for vice president took three ballots defeated then-vice president Bishop to conclude. In each round, Cardinal with the funds expected to come from a sec- With the election of Archbishop Kurtz ond collection CRS asked U.S. bishops to to head the USCCB for the next three Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz., on DiNardo was the leading vote-getter. He the third ballot. received 51 votes during the first round take in their dioceses before the end of the years, the bishops returned to the prac- year. tice of electing a sitting vice president to In two previous elections, circum- and 78 votes during the second round. stances dictated that the vice president 4Approved a budget for 2014 and approved a 3 percent increase in diocesan Pope names Dallas seminary rector Fort Worth bishop assessments starting in 2015. 4 WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Pope Francis has the St. Mary's Seminary in Houston. Heard a report on "important progress" appointed Msgr. Michael F. Olson, who is "I am very humbled and deeply moved by Pope Francis' being made in bishops' priorities for 2013- currently rector of Holy Trinity Seminary at appointment of me to serve as the bishop of Fort Worth," the 16 in their efforts to protect the life and the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas, to newly named bishop said at a news conference at the Fort Worth dignity of the human person, to strengthen head the Diocese of Fort Worth. diocesan Catholic Center. "In a very special way, I am delighted marriage and family life, to promote reli- Bishop-designate Olson, is a Fort Worth to return home to the Diocese of Fort Worth to serve the priests, gious liberty, and to improve faith formation diocesan priest. He succeeds Bishop Kevin W. deacons, religious, and all of the faithful as their bishop." and sacramental practice. Vann, who was named bishop of the Diocese He is the first priest of the Fort Worth diocese to be named a 4 Approved adding a new staff person to of Orange, Calif., in September 2012. bishop and will lead an estimated 710,000 Catholics in 90 the Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities to The appointment was announced Nov. 19 Bishop-designate parishes in the 28-county north Texas region. work on a national level with the post-abor- in Washington by Archbishop Carlo Maria Michael Olson "I know over the last 14 months we've all been praying for a tion ministry Project Rachel funded by a Vigano, apostolic nuncio to the U.S.. new bishop and last Tuesday morning I received a phone call Knights of Columbus grant. Bishop-designate Olson, who has been Holy Trinity's rector from the apostolic nuncio, who very graciously informed me 4 Approved the advancement of the saint- since 2008, will be ordained and installed Jan. 29 at a Mass to that our Holy Father Pope Francis had asked me to be the next hood cause of Mother Mary Teresa Tallon, be celebrated in the Fort Worth Convention Center. He will bishop of Fort Worth," Bishop-designate Olson said. "I who founded the Parish Visitors of Mary become the second youngest bishop in the United States to lead responded to him at the time, as I respond today, that relying on Immaculate, an order focused on contem- a diocese. The youngest bishop is fellow seminary classmate the help of Almighty God and with the help of the Blessed plation and door-to-door, personal ministry. Bishop Oscar Cantu of Las Cruces, N.M. Both are graduates of Mother, 'I accept.'" Page 16 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus December: The Fourth Period (1965), part 1 By Fr. Joe Uecker

December 2 found Pope Paul VI at the airport in Bombay, India. Today it is called Mumbai. This was another sensational media event; it was Paul at his best: compassionate, spiritually

Study Questions 4 Vatican II: The Fourth Period (1965), Pt. 1 What the world is in particular need of today is the credible wit- sensitive, as concerned about the plight of the world as much as ness of people enlightened in mind the plight of the Church. He had told the Cardinal Archbishop of and heart by the word of the Lord. Mumbai that he wanted to visit with the poor rather than the (Porta Fidei No. 15) How is your rich. He came as a missionary with a new style, respectful of the parish community a witness to the mind and heart of Christ? indigenous religious traditions. This was an action to try to con- A culture of witness is sustained vince powerful nations to stop pouring so much money into within the Church through marriage arms and more into clothing, shelter and medical care. From and the family. The communal rela- every perspective the trip was a resounding success. tionship that exists between and During the early days of December, this visit to India distract- among the three Persons of the ed the press from the black week. After returning, Paul tried to Trinity is the model for Christian mar- get some magazines to publish some articles to make known the riage, and through the Sacrament of positive results of the third period. While many bishops also rev- Matrimony, married love actually par- eled in the pope’s visit to India, they still had many disturbing ticipates in Trinitarian love. (Disciples questions arising from what had happened in St. Peter’s. In early Called to Witness p.13) The family, called the domestic January Pope Paul set the date for the opening of the fourth – Church, is often the first place and last – period for September 14. where one experience and is During the inter-session, there was much work to be done. formed in the faith. In fact, “the Beginning in March, Paul began to celebrate Mass at many new evangelization depends largely parishes in Rome according to the new rite, thus showing his on the domestic Church.” It is support for the Constitution on the Liturgy. Eleven documents through the example of the mothers still needed to be worked on. It was obvious to the commissions and fathers, grandparents, siblings, that the pope was going to take a more active role in supervising and extended family members that the procedures. He became much more of a micro manager. This one most concretely witnesses how Pope Paul VI greets the faithful during the closure of the Second Vatican to live a Christian life. (Disciples Council in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Dec. 8, 1965. (CNS Called to Witness p.13) (Please See VATICAN/23) photo/Catholic Press Photo) Diciembre: El Cuarto Período (1965), primera parte Por Padre Joe Uecker septiembre. una parte chiquita tratando a los Hindus y Buddhistas y Durante el tiempo entre los períodos, había mucho tra- más sobre los Musulmanes. Los obispos y patriarcas de El 2 de diciembre el Papa Pablo VI se encontró en el bajo que hacer. Comenzando en marzo, Pablo comenzó a los ritos orientales estaban muy preocupados por la parte aeropuerto en Bombay. Hoy se llama Mumbai. Esto fue celebrar la Misa en muchas parroquias en Roma según el sobre los Judíos por su locación geográfica y la cuestión otro acontecimiento sensacional en la media. Fue Pablo a nuevo rito, así mostrando su apoyo por la Constitución de “deicidio.” Al fin, no se hizo ninguna declaración, ni lo mejor: compasivo, espiritualmente sensitivo, tan pre- Sobre la Liturgia. Once documentos todavía necesitaban acusando a los judíos de “deicidio”, no absolviéndolos de ocupado por el destino del mundo como por el de la trabajo. Era evidente a las comisiones que el papa iba a ello. Una balanza delicada en verdad. Iglesia. Había dicho al Cardenal Arzobispo de Mumbai tomar un papel más activo supervisando los procedimien- En junio, el “Grupo” envió una carta al Papa Pablo que quería visitar con los pobres en vez de los ricos. tos. Llegó a ser más un micro-gerente. Esto tenía tres pidiendo un cambio en los procedimientos. En agosto, el Llegó como misionero con nuevo estilo, respetando las consecuencias: 1) Las comisiones eran más conscientes Cardenal Cicognani replicó a la carta con un regaño hiri- tradiciones religiosas indígenas. Esto fue una acción en en su trabajo de lo que el papa quería o lo que ellos ente. Le dijo al Grupo que su mera existencia era una que trató de convencer a las naciones poderosas que creían que quería 2) La Comisión Coordinadora llegó a amenaza al éxito del Concilio y podría conducir a un dejen de gastar tanto dinero en armas y más en ropa, ser menos y menos y más y más de la gerencia del cisma en la Iglesia. casas, y cuidado médico. De cualquier perspectivo, el Concilio se dio al Cardenal Felici. 3) En estas circunstan- El 14 de septiembre, el día en que el Concilio comenzó viaje fue un éxito espectacular. cias, había muchas apelaciones más al papa. de nuevo, el Papa Pablo publicó una carta (motu proprio Durante los primeros días de diciembre, esta visita a la Ningún esquema estaba sin problemas, pero había cua- – su propia obra) Apostolica Sollicitudo, en que anunció India distrajo a la prensa de la semana negra. Después de tro con problemas graves: 1) El esquema sobre la rev- el comienzo del Sínodo de Obispos. Esto parecía una volver, Pablo trató de convencer a unos periódicos que elación 2) El Decreto sobre la Libertad Religiosa 3) La respuesta a la cuestión de gobierno colegial, pero cuando publicaran unos artículos para que la gente supiera los Iglesia en el Mundo Moderno 4) Sobre los Judíos y uno lo examinó más detalladamente, fue evidente que resultados positivos del tercer período. Es verdad que Religiones no-Cristianas. nada se había cambiado porque el sínodo sería solamente muchos obispos estaban muy alegres por la visita del Durante el mes de agosto, los obispos alemanes se consultivo y que el papa iba a controlar la agenda. En Papa a la India, pero todavía tenían muchas preguntas mostraron más abiertos al documento sobre La Iglesia en realidad era más una expresión de primacía papal que difíciles, a causa de lo que había ocurrido en San Pedro. el Mundo Moderno cuando se hicieron unos cambios. La colegialidad episcopal. El texto quitó la colegialidad de En los primeros días de enero, el Papa Pablo fijó la fecha Declaración sobre los Judios y Religiones no-Cristianas la realidad institucional de la Iglesia. para comenzar el cuarto – y último – período: el 14 de despertó gran ansiedad entre todos los afectados. Había The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 17 Our Faith Bishops’ meeting and poverty; baptism By Father Kenneth Doyle the poor in Assisi; that same day he 60,000 square feet of space for meetings, Catholic News Service addressed townspeople in strong words, say- religious services, news conferences, etc. ing that "the church, all of us should divest Sometimes what is ideal needs to be sifted Q. I notice that the Catholic bishops of ourselves of worldliness. Worldliness is a through what is practical and possible. Your the United States are holding their annual murderer because it kills souls, kills people, question, though, serves as a valuable meeting at the Marriott Hotel at kills the church." reminder: Optics are important, and Baltimore's Inner Such a message rings especially true from Christians need habitually to view things Harbor. This strikes me a man who has chosen to live in a two-room through the lens of the poor. as an expensive site for modest apartment in a Vatican hostel for vis- Q. How should I respond to a young Our Holy Father’s those who are constant- itors and to eat his meals at a common table. couple (raised Catholic) who do not plan ly asking Catholics for Prompted by your question, I looked into to baptize their infant children? (They 2013 Monthly Intentions contributions to the the U.S. bishops' choice of the Baltimore intend to wait until the children are old poor. (Don't they know Marriott for their annual meeting. What I enough to decide on a religion for them- that most of the faithful found is that they are indeed sensitive to the selves.) (Baltimore, Md.) DECEMBER could not afford to stay Gospel's call for simplicity. A. I would ask the couple whether they fol- Victimized Children. That at such a place for sev- In fact, some years ago their annual meet- low the same standard in other areas of child children who are victims of Doyle eral days?) ing was moved from Washington, D.C., rearing. Since they're not sure whether their abandonment or violence may It strikes me that there are many Catholic (where the U.S. Conference of Catholic son will grow up to like math, do they decline find the love and protection properties around the country -- seminar- Bishops is headquartered) to Baltimore pre- to teach him arithmetic when he is little? they need. ies, abbeys or convents -- which could cisely because hotel rooms in Baltimore The role of parents is to determine what Prepare the Savior's accommodate them for much less money rented for about two-thirds of what they had opportunities they have benefited from, Coming. That Christians, and would serve as a better example. been paying in D.C. what virtues and values have helped them, Why don't the bishops take a page from Another reason for the change was that what moral framework can offer guidance enlightened by the Word incar- Pope Francis and start acting like the flights were generally cheaper into through life -- and then to pass on the best nate, may prepare humanity original apostles whom they claim to rep- Baltimore-Washington International Airport of what they have learned to their children. for the Savior's coming. resent? (Jamestown, Ky.) than into Ronald Reagan Washington What Catholic parents say by having their A. Since his election in March of 2013, National Airport. infants baptized is this: We believe (both JANUARY 2014 Pope Francis has continually called Realistically, the options for such a large from our faith and from our experience) that Universal: That all may pro- Christians to examine themselves against meeting are limited. It requires a facility that the sacraments and Catholic teaching offer a mote authentic economic Christ's own witness to poverty. On the feast can host 600 attendees, be easily accessible clear channel to God, and we want our kids development that respects the of St. Francis, the pope hosted a lunch for from all parts of the nation and provide to have that blessing. dignity of all peoples.

Be courageous: Learn to accept and surrender For Evangelization: That By Father John Catoir One of the great mystics of the church, rows is difficult. We all pine for paradise and Christians of diverse denomi- Catholic News Service Meister Eckhart told us there would be times yearn for God. He will always be with us. nations may walk toward the when we must suffer God, meaning that we But when a loved one is taken from us, we unity desired by Christ. The silence of God when you need him must endure patiently what God imposes. should at least have the grace to acknowledge most is one of the most difficult mysteries a The single action of trusting God's love in that the deceased person may be much happi- Daily Offering Prayer person of faith will ever have to face. Yes, difficult circumstances is an act of faith far er. Let them be. God will supply all the sup- Jesus, through the prayer works, and we more meritorious than any of the long, verbal port and solace you need. Immaculate Heart of Mary I professions of faith recited in church. Accept that you cannot control life. Life is absolutely need to rely on offer you my prayers, works, the Lord's strength when Cardinal John Henry Newman wrote that one consequential and time runs out for all of us. troubles come, but many deed, done for God against our natural incli- As you move into the future, choose your joys and sufferings of this day of us lose confidence in nation, will win us great merit. That is anoth- thoughts wisely. If you allow yourself to in union with the Holy Sacrifice God's love when he does- er way of saying that our patience with God's brood, your emotions will drown you in mis- of the Mass throughout the n't do exactly what we silence will be generously rewarded. Remain ery. Keep the faith. Believe in God's love, no world. I offer them for all the want. trusting when you are not getting your way. matter what. intentions of Your Sacred Jesus felt this emotion It reminds me of the joke about the guy who Despite God's silence, have the courage to Heart: the salvation of souls, on the cross, when he went into a diner. He said to the waitress, "Just surrender to life as it presents itself. Accept reparation for sin and the Catoir cried out, "My God, my give me a kind word and a bowl of chicken the sadness but reject thoughts of anger and reunion of all Christians. I offer God, why have you forsaken me?" in soup!" She went right into the kitchen and desolation; they are merely toxic thoughts them for the intentions of our Matthew 27:46. Divine wisdom is beyond soon came out with his order. He smirked, that will sabotage your happiness. bishops and of all Apostles of our comprehension. For instance, God takes "What about the kind word?" She leaned over Your supreme purpose in life is to honor Prayer, and in particular for loved ones home to heaven at the time that is and whispered, "Don't eat the soup!" God, love your neighbor and save your best for them, but not necessarily at the time There are some messages and words we immortal soul. Abandon all doubt and skepti- those recommended by our that is best for us. don't like to hear. Some of them are "surren- cism. The act of trusting the Lord, despite his Holy Father this month. If you ever feel let down by God, remem- der" and "accept." silence, will give you the power to rejoice ber that like Jesus on the cross, we too must Surrender because you are not in charge. more in his glorious creation. endure painful times. The Lord is aware that life with its many sor- Page 18 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus Today’s tastemaker was yesterday’s unpopular geek By Karen Osborne / Catholic News Service

Have you ever heard of Felicia Day? She's a Children's books: History, Pope Francis, more Hollywood actress and producer, and she's super cool, whether you're a geek or gamer. A few years ago, she nomic and political status during a bright images of cars racing around a Reviewed by Regina Lordan shot the record-breaking web series time when being a Whig or a Tory track. A nice little twist at the end will Catholic News Service "The Guild" on a shoestring budget in meant everything. Young readers will make adults smile as they read the her house. These days, she runs one of learn about taxation without represen- book aloud to youngsters. Ages 2-5. The following books are suitable for the biggest channels on YouTube. tation and America's journey to inde- 4 "Bambinelli Sunday: A Christmas giving: I've never met Day, but I imagine 4 pendence while enjoying a great story Christmas Blessing" by Amy "Friends of Liberty" by Beatrice we'd have a lot to talk about. We both with several twists and turns. Ages Welborn, illustrated by Ann Kissane Gormley. Eerdmans Books for enjoy the same kinds of things. That's 10-16. Engelhart. Franciscan Media Young Readers (Grand Rapids, why I wonder if she went through 4"Speed" by Nathan Clement. (Cincinnati, 2013). 33 pp., $15.99. Osborne Mich., 2013). 184 pp., $8. what I did in high school, mainly get- Boyds Mills Press (Honesdale, Pa., "Bambinelli Sunday" tells a A forbidden friendship, a stubborn ting teased and bullied because I liked "Star Wars," 2013). 30 pp., $16.95. Christmas tale of a lonely little boy but likable protagonist and political video games and other things that made me "nerdy." Young NASCAR racing and who finds joy in his family and in turmoil make this novel a gem for More than once, I thought of dropping those interests Matchbox car enthusiasts will delight sharing the baby Jesus with others. young readers. Set during the months for something deemed more "popular." in the vivid illustrations and simple, Beautifully illustrated scenes of leading up to the Boston Tea Party I'm glad I stuck to my guns. I bet Day is, too. but exciting, words in this book. water-colored Italian streets will keep midnight raid on three tea ships, These days, she is seen as a cultural tastemaker when Toddlers and early readers will learn the attention of little readers, and the "Friends of Liberty" is about two it comes to all things geeky because, unlike when I about car racing and colors while ono- young girls who form a friendship was growing up, all of those geeky things are "in." matopoeias give a soundtrack to the (Please See BOOKS/22) despite their families' different eco- They're super popular: Batman, Captain America, "The Big Bang Theory" and "Game of Thrones." Geeky Your Family stuff is important, big business these days. In magazine interviews, Day talks about getting pigeonholed into certain kinds of roles when she A few easy ways to ruin the holidays moved to Hollywood, roles that weren't getting her to By Bill Dodds done. enjoys a lively and spirited conversa- where she wanted to be. Instead of waiting for others Catholic News Service During Thanksgiving, Christmas and tion. And what better time to educate to change their minds about her, she went out and cre- New Year's, drink a lot, drink too much. others who are (let's be honest here) ated the roles she wanted for herself. Because she did- Yes, the stores started displaying Expect and demand that the day be remarkably wrong? n't give up on what she loved, she's now a powerful Thanksgiving and Christmas items perfect. Perfect meal served on a per- "Guilt" your nonpracticing-Catholic producer and a cultural tour de force. weeks ago, but fectly set table, with perfectly chosen adult children into attending Mass Culture changes. Public opinion is fickle. In 1995, if there's still plenty and wrapped gifts under a perfectly with you. Mention that this might be I'd gone to a superhero movie, most people would have of time to get ready decorated Christmas tree with a per- the last Christmas all of you are pointed and laughed. to ruin the holidays fect spouse and children at all holiday together. And that, for all they know, Cultural values often seem set in stone: cool or for you and your gatherings -- especially at the in-laws. next year you could be dead. uncool, in or out. But just look at fashion to see that family. It's easy! When it comes to shopping for gifts, Holiday? What's a "holiday"? Keep what's cool and what's not is as fluid as a river. Bell Just follow these charge everything. Even if your budget up a steady barrage of work-related bottoms were popular in 1974. They were "out" and easy instructions. is tight or loved ones don't really need phone calls, emails and texts. Confine skinny jeans were "in" in 1982, but bell bottoms later Say "yes" to those expensive items, remember that Christ to the 60 minutes of Mass on made a comeback, skinny jeans were "out" and have every invitation and Dodds credit card bills don't show up until way Thanksgiving, Christmas and New come "in" once again. request. Sure, that may mean dragging into next year. At least a couple of Year's -- 90 minutes if you attend the Being cool is not about wearing the "right" clothes. the family to Thanksgiving dinner at weeks into the new year right? There's Christmas Eve Mass. And while The coolest thing is being who you are, and there's no one household at 1 p.m. and to another no better way to show love than to over- you're at it, shoot a few pointed better time than high school to find that out. Try every- at 6 p.m., where you've been asked at spend. True affections don't come from glances at all those twice-a-year-in- thing. Play sports, join the robotics team, try out for a the first place you visit to bring your the heart; they come from the wallet. church Catholics who are packed in band or a play, and volunteer at a youth group. You famous pumpkin pies and those won- Whenever the extended family gath- everywhere and have even comman- never know what you're going to discover. derful homemade rolls you make at ers, prepare to do battle. This isn't the deered your pew. Your pew! Every tastemaker in the world today -- black or the second dinner. time to let bygones be bygones. Be on Or, this year you could practice a little white, woman or man -- shares one specific habit: Never end a holiday tradition. Ever. high alert for any look, word or ges- more kindness and patience, especially They didn't let others dictate what they thought was Not even as your family continues to ture that might be, just might be, some with yourself. This year, you could just cool. They discovered it for themselves. add more of them year after year. This kind of shot at you. enjoy times and celebrations with your Every field needs people who love their work and includes decorating the outside of the And speaking of gatherings, no mat- unique family and friends, thanking are authentic about who they are and what they love. house. Less isn't more. Only more is ter the occasion, never hesitate to God for them, and asking him to richly They need that to succeed and push society forward. more. Show those neighbors how it's bring up politics or religion. Everyone bless each and every one of them. That person could be you. The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 19

SISTER BLOCK MOTC EDICTAL SUMMONS November 14, 2013 (From 14) bration years of Jubilarians, but they (From 16) CASE: McQUEEN -- RICHMON could not find a name to designate the NO.: SO 13/52 form with a partial veil covering the 80th Anniversary of service by a reli- do to them. back of the hair. Gradually it went from gious. Of the five, only one cousin and This year’s MOTC retreat The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San the uniform with veil, to a suit and no constant companion, Sister Helen was no exception. There is Angelo is seeking Paula Dean Richmon. veil, to a jumper and finally to regular Lange, still lives and resides at the something very refreshing You are hereby summoned to appear before the clothes. Sister Pauline has loved doing monastery. All her nieces and nephews about the sound of off-key Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 many arts and crafts. She crocheted can possibly say that their first religious voices, stumbling through Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the many blankets, doilies, dolls, and angel medals, rosaries and prayer cards came words of songs that they do not 31st day of December 2013, to answer to the Petition of dolls. She quilted all types of fabrics from Sister Pauline. She gave what lit- know, but coming together to Phillip Gene McQueen, now introduced before the into quilts and assortments of decorator tle she did have with such a generous praise God. There is something Diocesan Tribunal in an action styled, “Phillip McQueen items such as pillows and bedspreads. heart. Sister Pauline was filled with the uplifting about seeing the wall and Paula Richmon McQueen, Petition for Declaration Sister Pauline’s devotion to children Holy Spirit, and the twinkle in her eyes of hurt and fear be broken of Invalidity of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as continued right up to a week before her only gave a hint to the spunk and zest down in the lives of young Case: McQUEEN--RICHMON; Protocol No.: SO 13/52, death. She enthusiastically embraced she had for life. Sister Pauline was pre- women. There is something on the Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. the Girls Around the World project this ceded in death by her parents Paul J. pure about witnessing teenage You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or girls receive the Body and past year, making adorable dresses out Block and Hattie Matthiesen Block; her in writing. Failure to communicate within the prescribed Blood for the first time in many of pillow cases for Haitian and African brother Wilbert Block; brothers-in-law period of time will be considered your consent for the months and even years. There is Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the above- girls living in orphanages. Sister loved Weldon Kocich and Howard Gray; sis- something absolutely heart- her sewing machine even though she ters-in-law Carmen Block and Sue named case. touching when you see, at the Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo on had an ongoing trial with the bobbin. Block; nephew Dennis Gray and niece end of the weekend, love and the 14th day of December 2013. Her tiny room was always filled with Melinda Block Naugle. She is survived happiness in eyes that started sewing projects, patterns and needle- by her sisters Gladys Gray of Chula out cold and isolated. But there work supplies. After her retirement and Vista, California, Frances Kocich of is also something very healing Reverend Tom Barley until the last days of her life, she dili- Wall, Texas; her brothers Andrew when these young women can MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL gently made hand-crafted items to sell Block of San Angelo, Texas and James relate to you after a testimony. Judicial Vicar in the gift shop at the monastery. It was Block and wife Lillian of Olfen, Texas; There is something so peaceful her way to contribute to her religious numerous nieces, nephews and a host about the way they smile and community. In the late 1980s and early of first cousins of the Bernard and comfort you in your own strug- 1990s Sister Pauline helped to earn Elizabeth Matthiesen Family. Her gles. There is something so money for the convent by being a care- Celebration of Life was held Sunday, encouraging about watching EDICTAL SUMMONS taker of an elderly lady. She always November and Mass of the your fellow ministers in Christ, November 14, 2013 wanted to be productive was excited to Resurrection on Monday, November 18 fall in love with Him again and CASE: McQUEEN -- LOW contribute to the building fund for the at in the Holy Name Monastery Chapel. again. There is something NO.: SO 13/53 new Holy Name Monastery. The years Arrangements were handled by Hodges Heavenly about bringing hope passed and soon the “Olfen Sisters” Family Funeral Home, Dade City, to a place where there is none. The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of were honored for their 80th Florida. Memorials may be made to: God works in mysterious San Angelo is seeking Marilyn Gay Low. ways. He knows what He is Anniversary of monastic life by the Building Fund - Holy Name Monastery You are hereby summoned to appear before the doing and He is gladdened Diocese of St. Petersburg. Bishop Special Gifts Campaign P.O. Box 2450 Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at when He sees His name pro- 804 Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or Lynch pointed out the fact that the St. Leo, Florida 33574-2450 claimed. And so, this ministry Church has special names for the cele- before the 31st day of December 2013, to answer became a life-changing reality to the Petition of Phillip Gene McQueen, now intro- to me when I read the last duced before the Diocesan Tribunal in an action verse of a poem that I received IRAAN from one of the girls on the styled, “Phillip McQueen and Marilyn McQueen, inside, “Because of you … my Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of Marriage.” (From 5) The parish is most grateful to Bishop life has changed.” I can’t help Said Petition is identified as Case: McQUEEN -- Michael Pfeifer for his personal gen- but wonder if she realizes how LOW; Protocol No.: SO 13/53 on the Tribunal to match funds and grants that might erosity and willingness to approach much she has changed my life. Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. be available from various foundations many foundations on behalf of the I can’t help but hope she sees You may communicate with the Tribunal in per- and organizations. parish. The Catholic Extension Society, the beauty in the ministry that son or in writing. Failure to communicate within Groundbreaking for the new church The Kenedy Memorial Foundation, she does. I can’t help but see the prescribed period of time will be considered took place on April 16, 2013 and con- The National Christian Foundation, God’s love in my sister in your consent for the Tribunal to continue its pro- struction began. The new church seats and The Robison Excelsior Christ. And so, I pull out my ceedings in the above-named case. 110 worshipers and was constructed by Foundation, have been most generous. pen and I began writing, “My Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San N.C. Sturgeon, Inc. of Midland. The A local business, Barrera Contractors, dear sister, because of YOU, Angelo on the 14th day of December 2013.. new church was dedicated on Tuesday, Inc., also made a generous donation my life has changed.” November 19, 2013, at a special Mass. towards the new church. Above all, the We ask that you keep all who Reverend Tom Barley with Bishop Pfeifer presiding, assisted parish is most grateful to God for His minister to the incarcerated and MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL by the pastor, Fr. Isidore Ochiabuto many blessings and this great gift. those who are incarcerated in Judicial Vicar and other priests of the diocese. your prayers. Page 20 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus MOVIE, VIDEO RATINGS

By Catholic News Service S (R) Oz the Great and Powerful, A-II (PG) F The Smurfs 2, A-I (PG) Flipped, A-III (PG) NEW YORK (CNS) -- Here is a The Family, O (R) Something Borrowed, L (PG-13) 42, A-III (PG-13) P list of recent films that Fast & Furious 6, L (PG-13) The Spectacular Now, L (R) Pacific Rim, A-III (PG-13) Catholic News Service has The Fifth Estate, A-III (R) T G Pain and Gain, O (R) rated on the basis of moral Frances Ha, L (R) Thor: The Dark World, A-III (PG-13) Gangster Squad, L (R) Paranoia, A-III (PG-13) suitability.. Free Birds, A-I (PG) 12 Years a Slave, L (R) Getaway, A-III (PG-13) Parental Guidance, A-I (PG) Frozen, A-I (PG) Tyler Perry's Temptation: G.I. Joe: Retaliation, A-III (PG-13) Parker, O (R) CNS classifications: A-I -- gen- Confessions of a Marriage A Good Day to Die Hard, L (R) Peeples, O (PG-13) eral patronage; A-II -- adults G Counselor, A-III (PG-13) The Grace Card, A-II (PG-13) People Like Us, A-III (PG-13) and adolescents; A-III -- adults; The Grandmaster, A-III (PG-13) Grown Ups 2, A-III (PG-13) The Perfect Family, O (PG-13) L -- limited adult audience, Gravity, A-III (PG-13) W The Guilt Trip, A-III (PG-13) Pitch Perfect, A-III (PG-13) films whose problematic con- The Great Gatsby, A-III (PG-13) Warm Bodies, A-III (PG-13) Planes, A-I (G) tent many adults would find The Wolverine, A-III (PG-13) H Playing for Keeps, A-III (PG-13) troubling; O -- morally offen- H Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, O (R) Promised Land, A-III (R) sive. MPAA ratings: G -- gener- The Hangover Part III, L (R) Y A Haunted House, O (R) The Purge, O (R) al audiences. All ages admit- Homefront, L (R) You're Next, O (R) Haywire, L (R) ted; PG -- parental guidance The Hunger Games: Catching The Heat, O (R) R suggested. Some material may Fire, A-III (PG-13) VIDEOS Hellbound?, A-III (no rating) RED 2, A-III (PG-13) not be suitable for children; Hereafter, A-III (PG-13) R.I.P.D., A-III (PG-13) PG-13 -- parents strongly cau- I A Hitchcock, A-III (PG-13) tioned. Some material may be The Incredible Burt Admission, L (PG-13) The Hobbit: An Unexpected S inappropriate for children Wonderstone, L (PG-13) After Earth, A-III (PG-13) Journey, A-II (PG-13) Safe Haven, L (PG-13) under 13; R -- restricted. Under Amour, L (PG-13) The Host, A-III (PG-13) Scary Movie 5, O (PG-13) 17 requires accompanying par- J Anna Karenina, A-III (R) Hyde Park on Hudson, O (R) The Sessions, O (R) ent or adult guardian; NC-17 -- Jack the Giant Slayer, A-II (PG-13) Identity Thief, L (R) Seven Psychopaths, O (R) no one 17 and under admitted. Jackass: Bad Grandpa, O (R) B The Internship, L (PG-13) Side Effects, L (R) Beautiful Creatures, L (PG-13) Iron Man 3, A-III (PG-13) Sinister, L (R) K Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Snitch, A-III (PG-13) FILMS Kick-Ass 2, O (R) Son, A-III (PG-13) J Somewhere Between, A-II (no Killer Elite, A-III (R) Jack Reacher, L (PG-13) rating) A The Big Wedding, O (R) Jane Eyre, A-III (PG-13) Star Trek Into Darkness, A-III About Time, L (R) The Bling Ring, O (R) L Jobs, A-III (PG-13) (PG-13) Across the Divide, A-II (no rating) Broken City, L (R) Last Exorcism Part II, L (PG-13) Jurassic Park, A-II (PG-13) Stella Days, L (no rating) The Awakening, A-III (R) Bullet to the Head, O (R) Last Vegas, A-III (PG-13) Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, A-I (G) Lee Daniels' The Butler, A-III (PG-13) T B C The Lone Ranger, L (PG-13) L Texas Chainsaw 3D, O (R) Baggage Claim, A-III (PG-13) The Call, O (R) Last Ounce of Courage, A-II (PG) This Is the End, O (R) Battle of the Year, A-III (PG-13) Christmas for a Dollar, A-I (PG) M The Last Stand, L (R) To the Wonder, A-III (PG-13) The Best Man Holiday, O (R) The Collection, O (R) Machete Kills, O (R) Les Miserables, A-III (PG-13) The Tree of Life, A-II (PG-13) Black Nativity, A-II (PG) The Conjuring, A-III (R) The Mortal Instruments: City of The Lucky One, A-III (PG-13) Turbo, A-I (PG) Blue Jasmine, L (PG-13) Conviction, L (R) ones, A-III (PG-13) 21 and Over, O (R) Bully, A-III (PG-13) Creature, O (R) Much Ado About Nothing, A-III (PG-13) The Croods, A-I (PG) M 2 Guns, L (R) Mama, A-III (PG-13) Tyler Perry's Good Deeds, A-III C Crooked Arrows, A-III (PG-13) O Man of Steel, A-III (PG-13) (PG-13) Captain Phillips, A-III (PG-13) 1 Direction: This Is Us, A-II (PG) The Master, O (R) Tyler Perry's Temptation: Carrie, L (R) D The Mill & the Cross, A-III (no rating) Confessions of a Marriage Closed Circuit, A-III (R) Dark Skies, A-III (PG-13) P Monsters University, A-I (G) Counselor, A-III (PG-13) Cloudy With a Chance of Dead Man Down, O (R) Phantom, A-III (R) Moonrise Kingdom, A-III (PG-13) Meatballs 2, A-II (PG) The Dictator, O (R) The Place Beyond the Pines, L (R) Movie 43, O (R) W The Counselor, O (R) Django Unchained, L (R) Prisoners, L (R) Mud, A-III (PG-13) Warm Bodies, A-III (PG-13) We're the Millers, O (R) D E Q N The Way, Way Back, A-III (PG- Delivery Man, L (PG-13) End of Watch, O (R) Quartet, A-III (PG-13) Now You See Me, A-III (PG-13) 13) Despicable Me 2, A-I (PG) Epic, A-I (PG) Escape From Planet Earth, A-I (PG) White House Down, A-III (PG- Dream House, L (PG-13) R Evil Dead, O (R) O 13) Don John, O (R) Restless Heart, A-II (no rating) Extremely Loud & Incredibly Oblivion, A-III (PG-13) World War Z, A-III (PG-13) Riddick, O (R) Of Gods and Men, A-III (PG-13) The World's End, A-III (R) E Close, A-III (PG-13) Runner Runner, L (R) Olympus Has Fallen, L (R) Elysium, L (R) Rush, L (R) The Oogieloves in the Big Z Ender's Game, A-II (PG-13) F Balloon Adventure, A-I (G) Zero Dark Thirty, L (R) Escape Plan, L (R) The Five-Year Engagement, O The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 21

ADVIENTO EWTN Radio (Para 4) nosotros. Adviento nos prepara para capturar el otro para preparar bien para el cumpleaños de la espíritu de la Navidad el cual se trata del cuida- persona más grande que ha vivido. Durante estos Catolica termina con cenas y festividades en el día de do y la compasión amorosa de Dios para todos días de Adviento necesitamos tomar tiempo para Las estaciones de radio en Navidad y en abrir regalos, más bien deberíamos nosotros. Nuestro Dios escogió a venir a reflexionar en la Palabra de Dios tal como se nos las tres deaneries de la dióce- esforzarnos a tomar parte en el nuevo gozo, nosotros en el lugar más bajo de lugares y para dio en la liturgia de cada día, especialmente la sis de nuevo están transmitien- esperanza y felicidad que se nos ofrecen por llegar a ellos quienes se sienten desamparados y esperanza de Dios que se nos ofrece por medio do programas regulares en nuestro Dios durante toda la temporada de desesperanzados. de varias lecturas del Profeta Isaias. Para real- español cada fin de semana Adviento en preparación para la Navidad y Adviento es el tiempo para concentrar en la mente capturar la esperanza y el gozo de la tem- por las mañanas. Las sigu- luego vivir su cumpleaños durante la entera tem- nueva esperanza y vida que Dios nos ofrece en porada necesitamos tomar más tiempo y rezar ientes son las estaciones y el porada de la Navidad. Al concentrar en la razón el niño Jesús en la Navidad, y capturar el espíritu más con nuestra familia, ir a la iglesia juntos, horario donde usted puede primaria de la temporada, el nacimiento de de dar y compartir que se demuestran por nue- celebrar el sacramento de reconciliación, y llegar escuchar EWTN y otros esfuer- Cristo, necesitamos tomar ventaja de este tiempo stro Dios. Hay una razón para la temporada, y se a otros por medio de compartir nuestros regalos zos de programaciones católi- gozoso con luces de color, decoraciones, y la encuentra en el proceso de dar, especialmente de y nuestros bienes con los que tienen menos que cos en español en Abilene, música de Adviento y Navidad para realmente nosotros mismos, de nuestro tiempo, nuestros nosotros. Luego, la Navidad tendrá un nuevo Midland-Odessa y San Ángelo: celebrar el regalo tan gracioso de Dios a regalos para ayudar a otros, y ayudar el uno a significado más alegre. Abilene – KKHR (106.3 FM) está transmitiendo La Hora OBISPO Católica de EWTN en español los domingos a las 10 a.m. (Para 3) mos a alguien, aun cuando este- Midland-Odessa – Padre mos cansados; siempre cuando De José y María de Nazaret Gilberto Rodríguez, el Vicario tiempo en el día de Navidad, y enjugamos alguna lagrima de un Parroquial de la parroquia San durante la temporada Navideña, rostro atribulado. Es Navidad [Mis hermanas y hermanos en Cristo – José y María me pidieron el favor Esteban (St. Stephen’s para venir, especialmente en de compartir esta invitación con todos ustedes para tomar parte en la cel- siempre que extendemos la Church) de Midland, presenta familia, y pasar un tiempo, en ebración de cumpleaños de su hijo, Jesús, el 25 de diciembre del 2013. mano a una persona necesitada; el programa los sábados desde oración y meditación, ante este Por favor confirmar su asistencia por medio de arrodillarse y decir: “María siempre que hacemos un favor a las 5-10 a.m. en KQLM (108 niño en el pesebre, y para alabar y y José, allí estaré.” Ellos están disponibles 24 horas al día para recibir la quienes nos piden ayuda. FM) con entrevista cada sába- contestación a su invitación dondequiera que estén. – Obispo Miguel] glorificarlo mientras nos arrodille- Siempre es Navidad cuando do con el Obispo Miguel mos antes nuestro pequeño Rey y callemos una crítica destructiva Pfeifer, OMI a las 8:45 a.m.. De José y María de Nazaret rogándole que nos muestre el y animamos a nuestros her- Además, La Hora Católica de camino hacia la paz, la reconcil- Con gran alegría y cariño, les invitamos cordialmente a usted, su manos desanimados. Es Navidad EWTN se puede escuchar los iación y como descubrir la miseri- familia y amigos a la celebración siempre cuando luchamos por la domingos a las 7 a.m. cordia y perdón de Dios, y como de cumpleaños de nuestro hijo, Jesús. verdad, sin pactar con la menti- San Ángelo – KSJT en San ser agentes de la misericordia de IMMANUEL ra, o compartir en la decepción. Ángelo está transmitiendo la Dios para otros. El niño—el hom- En la parroquia más cercana a usted, en la vísperas de la Navidad y Es Navidad siempre cuando Hora Católica de EWTN los bre-Dios—en el pesebre es un el 25 de diciembre, la Navidad y la recepción inmediatamente demostramos un acto de com- domingos a las 7 a.m. signo y una fuente de la reconcil- después en sus prensión y consideración y hace- CORAZONES EWTN en Espanol iación y sanación que necesitamos mos un acto de caridad o de esti- Se les pide, que al reunirse con sus familias, sus familiares y amigos ma que nos unen en la solidari- Radio stations in all three of en nuestras vidas individuales, en the deaneries of the diocese nuestras familias, y en nuestras para comidas y fiestas, que también inviten a los pobres, a los oprimi- dad. Es especialmente Navidad dos, a los necesitados y especialmente a los niños, al celebrar este are again running regular week- comunidades y en todo el mundo. cuando rezamos y trabajamos ly programming on weekend Históricamente, asignamos un día y la temporada de Navidad con un espíritu de paz y gozo sin descanso para proteger el En su iglesia mornings. The following is the día para decir cuando nació precioso infante no nacido, cada stations and times where tou Cristo. Sin embargo, por el miste- En su propia casa uno la imagen del infante Cristo, A gasto propio can hear EWTN and other rio maravilloso de la sagrada y cuando ofrecemos apoyo a las Spanish-programming efforts in liturgia, por el poder y presencia Y a su conveniencia madres quien luchan con deci- Dones recomendados—Amor, perdón, compasión y servicio. Abilene, Midland-Odessa and del Espíritu Santo, Cristo nace en siones de embarazo, ayudán- San Angelo: En retorno recibirá vida y amor eterno y paz de Dios. una manera nueva cada día en doles a pedirle ayuda a la Madre ABILENE -- KKHR (106.3 Les deseamos una muy feliz y pacifica cada una de nuestras Misas ofre- de todas Madres, María, la FM) is airing EWTN’s Catholic cidas diariamente alrededor del Madre del infante Jesús y todos Hour in Spanish, Sundays at 10 mundo y tenemos el privilegio NAVIDAD infantes. am. maravilloso de recibirlo en Sinceramente, Siempre es Navidad cuando MIDLAND-ODESSA -- Fr. Comunión. Y, por el mismo José y María encendemos una vela, sin Gilbert Rodriguez, parochial poder del Espíritu, podemos decir Fecha: 25 de diciembre del 2013 maldecir la oscuridad; es navi- vicar at St. Stephen’s Church in que la Navidad pasa, o pueda Con los mejores deseos de los Ángeles,Santos y Ministros Celestiales dad cuando el sermón de la Midland,hosts a Saturday pro- pasar, cada día del año al hacer a montaña y las lecciones del niño gram from 5-10 a.m. on KQLM Cristo presente en las vidas de otros por del mundo nace o renace el amor; es navidad de pesebre de Belén sean parte de nuestra (108 FM). Additionally, EWTN medio de nuestro amor, servicio, cuidado y cuando siempre abrimos las puertas de nues- vida diaria mientras sigamos a Cristo en vida Catholic programming can be heard Sundays at 7 a.m. compasión. La Navidad se trata del amor y tras casas o corazones a los que sufren o como adulto, viviendo su Evangelio. piden ser confortados especialmente al enfer- SAN ANGELO — KSJT in misericordia de Dios viniendo a nuestro La Navidad no morirá si nosotros no la San Angelo is airing EWTN’s mundo para salvarnos de nuestros pecados y mo, al pobre, al inmigrante. Es Navidad siem- dejamos morir. Ella será diaria, constante, pre cuando perdonamos a quien nos ha heri- Catholic Hour Sundays at 7 dejando al niño Jesús enseñarnos por su ejem- cuando podamos decir con San Pablo: “Ya no a.m. plo y palabra como compartimos ese amor do, ofendido o pisoteado. Es Navidad siempre soy yo el que vivo. Es Cristo que vive dentro con otros. que renunciamos al egoísmo, sirviendo con de mí.” (Gal. 2:20) Es Navidad siempre cuando en alguna parte generosidad. Es navidad siempre que sonreí- Page 22 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus BISHOP (From 2) destructive criticism and try to encourage An invitation from Mary & Joseph a brother or sister who is discouraged. It is offered daily around the world and we Christmas when we fight for the truth have the wonderful privilege of receiving without ever entering into a pact with [My sisters and brothers: Joseph and relatives and friends for meals and par- him in Communion. And, because of the untruth, or taking part in a lie or decep- Mary asked me to please share their invi- ties, to also reach out to the poor, the same power of the Spirit, we can say that tion. It is Christmas when we show tation with all of you to take part in the oppressed, the needy, and especially Christmas happens, or can happen, every understanding and consideration for the birthday celebration of their son, Jesus, children, as you celebrate his birthday day of the year as we make Christ present on December 25, 2013. RSVP by simply opinion and feeling of another person, and and the Christmas season in a spirit of in the lives of others by our love, service, falling on your knees and saying: “Mary when we perform an act of charity which peace and joy ... care and compassion. Christmas is about and Joseph, I’ll be there.” shows that we are in solidarity with the In church God’s love and mercy coming into our They are available 24 hours a day for other person. It is especially Christmas In your own House world to free us from sin and letting the you to reply to their invitation from wher- day when we pray for and work tirelessly At your own expense Christ Child teach us by example and ever you might be. — Bishop Mike] to protect the precious unborn infants, And at your convenience word how to share this love with others. each one an image of the infant Christ, It is Christmas then, when in some part From Joseph and Mary of Nazareth— and when we offer support to mothers RECOMMENDED GIFTS of the world, love is born or reborn in the With great joy and love we cordially struggling with pregnancy decisions, help- Love, forgiveness, compassion and heart of a human person. It is always invite you, your family and friends to ing them to turn to the mother of all moth- service. In return you will receive God’s Christmas when we open the doors of the Birthday celebration of our Son, ers, Mary, the mother of the infant Jesus eternal life, love and peace. We wish our houses, our hearts to those who suf- Jesus and all infants. you a very joyful and peaceful fer, to those who seek comfort and care It is always Christmas when we light a CHRISTMAS especially the abandoned, the sick, the EMMANUEL candle without cursing the darkness. It is poor, the immigrants. Christmas happens At your nearest Parish Church, On especially Christmas when the sermon on Christmas Eve and 25th December, the mount is the guiding force of our life, especially when we pardon someone who Yours sincerely, Christmas Day, and the reception and when the lessons that we learn here at has offended us, or who has hurt us, or Date: Dec. 25, 2013 thereafter in your the crib of this infant become part of our taken advantage of us. Joseph & Mary HEARTS. daily living as we follow this Christ in his It is always Christmas when we refuse With best compliments from the adulthood and life his Gospel. to give into our pride and our egoism, Angels, You are requested, as you come Christmas will never die in us if we do and when we reach out in service to oth- All Saints and Heavenly Ministers. ers in generosity. Christmas happens together with your family, not let it die. Christmas will happen when we smile at someone even when everyday and constantly, in the Eucharist, we are tried, even perhaps when we dis- suffering child or from the face of some- to a person in need and when we do a in our acts of love, in service, and when like a certain person. It is always one who is troubled. Christmas happens favor for someone who asks for help. we say with St. Paul, “I live, no longer I, Christmas when we wipe the tears of a in a special way when we extend a hand It is always Christmas when we stifle but Christ lives in me.” (Gal.2:20) BOOKS (From 18) illustrated by Diana Kizlauskas. obsession, readers also will learn a lot shouldn't that guarantee Aaron from being Pauline Books and Media (Boston, about the nation's third president and the dreaded new kid in school? "Dear Christian lesson is appropriate for all 2013). 58 pp., $8.95. early America. Ages 8-10. God, I Don't Get It" is a well-written ages. Ages 4-8. We know by now that Pope Francis 4 "Grumbles From the Forest: Fairy chapter book that will help readers trust 4 "A Girl Called Problem" by Katie grew up in Argentina and studied chem- Tale Voices With a Twist" by Jane in God and learn that God has a plan, Quirk. Eerdmans Books for Young istry before becoming a Jesuit. But did Yolen and Rebecca Kai Dotlich, illus- even if it is not always immediately Readers (Grand Rapids, Mich., 2013). you know that as a student, the young trated by Matt Mahurin. WordSong apparent. Although the predictable ending 256 pp., $8. Jorge Bergoglio liked playing basketball (Honesdale, Pa., 2013). 40 pp., $16.95. is perhaps tied up too tightly with a bow, When an entire village moves to a new and worked at a sock factory cleaning This collection of poems dedicated to that shouldn't discourage young readers community to help build a free Tanzania, floors and equipment? Young readers of beloved fairy tales is witty and smart. wanting to read more books like this. conflict arises. But are the problems the this illustrated biography will enjoy inter- Enchanting illustrations and charming Luckily, another book about the Ajax result of evil curses from disgruntled esting facts about Pope Francis' life and poems will tickle the imagination of family is due to come out next year. Ages ancestors or is something -- or someone - discovering that the pope was an ener- young children and adults alike. The book 8-12. - else causing the disruption? Set in mid- getic student, helpful son and an ordinary will allow readers to revisit their favorite 4"The Prayer of St. Francis" illustrat- 1960s Tanzania, "A Girl Called Problem" child of God called to do extraordinary fairy tales and think about them in a new ed by Giuliano Ferri. Paulist Press is a wonderful introduction to historical things. Ages 8-11. way. This is one of those books that will (Mahwah, N.J., 2013). 34 pp., $12.95. fiction that will teach young readers 4"Thomas Jefferson Builds a be pulled from the shelf time and again. This children's picture book is the St. about the crossroads of tradition and Library" by Barb Rosenstock, illustrat- Ages 5 and up. Francis' prayer depicted in soft illustra- modernization, culture and science. ed by John O' Brien. Calkins Creek 4 "Dear God, I Don't Get It" by Patti tions of a fox treating his furry friends Readers will fall in love with the main (Honesdale, Pa., 2013). 32 pp., $16.95. Maguire Armstrong, illustrated by with kindness, forgiveness and love. character, a spunky young girl who teach- This book's clever illustrations and fun Shannon Wirrenga. Liguori Publications Although the prayer actually was written es her village that when girls are allowed narrative about a well-known American (Liguori, Mo., 2013). 112 pp., $7.99. long after the beloved saint died, this sim- to go to school, an entire community ben- president will wet the appetite of future Sixth-grader Aaron Ajax is facing some ple and beautiful prayer along with the efits. Ages 10-14. historians. "Thomas Jefferson Builds a real problems: His dad lost his job, and book's pictures will help young children 4"Jorge from Argentina: The Story of Library" is a nonfiction picture book that the family must move in the middle of a learn about St. Francis' mission and what Pope Francis for Children" by Marlyn describes Jefferson's love affair with school year. How could God do this to they are called to do as children of God. Monge, FSP, and Jaymie Stuart Wolfe, books. Within the context of his literary his family? They pray and go to church; Ages 3-5. The Angelus DECEMBER 2013 Page 23 VATICAN House, Senate (From 16) document on The Church in the their very existence was a threat to the Contact information Modern World when some changes success of the Council and might very had three consequences: 1) The com- were made. The Declaration on Jews well lead to a schism in the Church. missions were much more conscious in and Non-Christian Religions aroused On September 14, the day the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES their work of what the pope wanted or great anxiety among all concerned. Council reconvened, Pope Paul issued a -- U.S. Congressman K. Michael what they thought he wanted 2) The There was a relatively small part deal- letter (motu proprio – his own doing) Conaway (District 11-- San Angelo, Coordinating Commission became less ing with Hindus and Buddhists and Apostolica Sollicitudo, in which he and less while more and more of the longer section on Muslims. The Eastern announced the beginning of the Synod Midland-Odessa, Andrews, Stanton, management of the Council was given rite bishops and patriarchs were of Bishops. On the surface, this seemed Crane, Rankin, Big Lake, Colorado City, to Cardinal Felici. 3) In these circum- extremely concerned about the part on like an answer to the question of colle- Sterling City, Robert Lee, Bronte, stances, direct appeals to the pope the Jews because of their geographic gial government, but when examined Ballinger, Winters, Miles, Christoval, inevitably increased. location and the whole question of more closely, it became obvious that Eldorado, Junction, Menard, Eden, Melvin, No schema was without problems but “deicide.” In the end, no statement was nothing really changed since the synod Brady, Coleman, Brownwood, Sonora, four were in for serious problems. 1) made, either accusing the Jews of dei- would be purely advisory and that the McCamey, Mertzon, Sweetwater ) The schema on revelation 2) The cide or absolving them from it. A deli- pope would control the agenda. In real- Decree on Religious Liberty 3) The cate balance indeed! ity it was more an expression of papal Phone: 202-225-3605 Church in the Modern World 4) On the In June the Group sent a letter to primacy than it was episcopal collegial- Mailing Address: 511 Cannon House Jews and non-Christian Religions. Pope Paul requesting a change in the ity. The text cut collegiality off from Office Building, Washington, DC 20515 In the month before the opening of procedures. In August Cardinal grounding in the institutional reality of Email (via Web): the Council, the German bishops Cicognani replied to the letter in a the Church. https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/wel- showed themselves more open to the stinging rebuke. He told the Group that come.shtml: PATTERSON Web: http://conaway.house.gov/ (From 3) secure family and a desire to return us, gave us tea, shared their life stories -- Rep. Randy Neugebauer (District 19 home, the men from Syria mostly just and blessed us and thanked us when we -- Big Spring, Abilene, Clyde) emotions in an especially compelling want to work. Not just so they can pro- left. The appreciation they have for the Phone: 202-225-4005 way. vide for their families, but because it kindness of others is difficult to put into Mailing Address: 1424 Longworth 4Love your country through it all. gives them self-worth. words. Think we have problems in America? 4 Fall in love. Stay that way. I met 4 Take care of the poor. It is our mis- HOB, Washington, DC 20515 Despite our significant economic issues, one couple that was quite an inspiration. sion. To not do so renders us poor in Email (via Web): what we do have—safety, opportunity, She is 33. Her husband 24. They married spirit, many times as difficult a place to https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/wel- home— is what many Syrians describe because they fell in love. In America, be as physical poverty itself. come.shtml praying they can one day have again. that’s understood. In the Middle East, it 4 No matter how hard you have it, Web: http://randy.house.gov/ Living in tents or crowded apartments as can fall somewhere between rarity and someone else has it worse. You may refugees, they can’t wait for the day miracle. Seeing the embodiment of a never meet that person, but he or she is -- Rep. Pete Gallego (District 23 — when they can peacefully return to their love-created union in the middle of war always there. land, even if their house is no longer and involuntary displacement is an emo- 4 Whatever you do for the least of Fort Stockton, Iraan, Ozona standing. It is home. Most of what we tional slice of life powerful to watch. these, you did for me. Whatever you Mailing Address: 431 Cannon HOB have in America the refugees in Jordan 4 Sometimes its OK to look back. did not do for the least of me, you did Washington, DC 20515-4323 only dream of, yet since they spend most Especially when, like most refugees, not do for me. Pray. Not just for people Phone 202-225-4511 of their time just surviving, their dreams that’s where you left behind most of you know. Pray for those you will never Web http://gallego.house.gov/ are often different from our dreams. what you had and many you cared about. know. They are counting on you to do 4 Work. Next to having a healthy, 4 Open your home to strangers. Sight so. unseen, the Syrian families welcomed BARRON U.S. SENATE (From 8) appeared as Sauron the Dark Lord and postmodern philosophers, namely, that -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn Christ under the guise of Frodo the the avatar of one worldview overcomes Phone: 202-224-2934 winter, and Christ becomes Aslan the priest, Gandalf the prophet, and Aragorn, another, not so much through argument, Mailing Address: 517 Hart Senate lion who offers his own life in order to the king who returned after a great battle but through telling a more compelling liberate the land. In The Screwtape to take possession of his rightful king- story, by “out-narrating” his opponent. Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20510 Letters, Lewis illustrates how the gener- dom. Both Lewis and Tolkien wanted to He knew that the Christian evangelist, Web: al calamity plays itself out in the life of “evangelize the imagination,” to plant despite any personal flaws he might http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/ a very ordinary Christian and the low- the seeds of the Gospel and the rhythms exhibit or institutional baggage he might level devil assigned to torment him. It is of the Biblical narrative in the minds of carry, still possessed the greatest story -- U.S. Senator Ted Cruz precisely Lewis’s confidence in the vic- their readers. The fact that both The ever told. Lewis told that story with Cruz, Ted - (R - TX) Class I tory of Christ that enabled him to disem- Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of particular verve, bravado, intelligence, Phone: (202) 224-5922 power the devil through mockery. the Rings have, in recent years, been imagination, and panache—and that is J.R.R. Tolkien, who was a great friend to made into wildly popular films can only why it is well and good that we should Mailing Address: B40B Dirksen Senate and Christian fellow-traveler with be characterized, therefore, as a triumph celebrate him on the 50th anniversary of Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 Lewis, presented his own version of the of evangelization. his passing. Biblical tale in The Lord of the Rings. C.S. Lewis intuited something that In Tolkien’s invented world, the devil has become a commonplace among Page 24 DECEMBER 2013 The Angelus Around the Diocese The West Texas Angelus Official Newspaper of the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to: WEST TEXAS ANGELUS P.O. Box 1829 SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 ______

Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI Publisher

Jimmy Patterson Midland Director of Communications Merkel Bishop Pfeifer, center, and Msgr. Larry Droll, right, with pro- Editor A Town Square Rosary Rally was held in Merkel on October 12. Pictured, life supporters from St. Lawrence, left to right, Joyce left to right, are Jocille Brady, Sylvia Ybarra (Rally Coordinator), Charlotte Halfmann, Martha Schwartz, Lynette Jansa and Kay Donna Starbuck, Jake Butler, Kay Amerine, Audye Butler and Becky Brown. Member Machicek at the recent Life Center fundraiser that featured Catholic News Service Rick Santorum as the main presenter. Catholic Press Association Texas Catholic News Rowena

Published the first Monday follow- Father Ariel Lagunilla ing the 1st Saturday of each month stands before a banner and delivered to all registered presented to him by the parishioners in the San Angelo CCD students of St. Diocese. Joseph Parish in Rowena, on Priesthood Subscription rate for all others: Sunday, October 27. He $10 per year was honored by the entire parish family with gifts, prayers, banners, THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID song and cards to thank San Angelo AT SAN ANGELO, TEXAS him for the many ways he helps its members. Parishioners helped “Light up the Courthouse” Printed by the during the first week of Advent in San Angelo. San Angelo Standard Times About 65 faithful gathered to pray at the event. A Scripps-Howard Company

Submissions: Story suggestions, calendar items, parish briefs and all other submissions should be emailed to [email protected]. COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: Third Friday of every month. Odessa

Photos should be in jpeg format. San Angelo Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI, presides over the 20th Anniversary of the Odessa Perpetual Letters to the editor are welcome, Adoration Chapel, located at St. Mary’s Church. Holy and should be emailed to Redeemer Church in Odessa hosted the celebration [email protected]. beginning with Mass on October 17. A covered dish Letters to the editor are printed at reception followed the Mass in the parish hall. With the the discretion of the editor and bishop are, left to right, Fr. Mamachan Joseph, Fr. identities of the writer are subject Santiago Udayar and Deacon Antonio Gonzales. to verification. Please include name, address and phone number when submitting letters.