WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Jan. 8-21, 2016 | Volume 77, Number 5

orlando diocese palm beach diocese Venice diocese

People gather to listen to different speakers at Cities for Life/Cities Against the Death Penalty Nov. 30 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Daytona Beach. (JACQUE BRUND | FC) The statue of Grief and History stands near the U.S. Capitol dome in Washington. (KEviN LAmARQUE, Bishop Frank J. Dewane lays his hands on the head of REUTERS | CNS) Grzegorz Klich during his ordination to the transitional Faithful unite diaconate Dec. 19. (BOB REDDY | FC) to urge end to Listening lends Two ordained death penalty itself to healing to transitional

“I realized that revenge is not a cure for grief,” Two years ago, Darin Lueken suddenly lost his diaconate said a single mother who offered an impromptu young son. Today, he holds tight the memory of speech at the Cities for Life/Cities Against the his faith community reaching out compassion- Grzegorz Klich and Charles G. Ruoff claim Death Penalty event. She spoke about the rage ately to him and his wife and daughter who were there is nothing special about them except that and she experienced with her son’s unsolved mur- suffering from the tragedy, and the shock and they have a desire to serve the Lord and are cur- der. It wasn’t until another murder occurred that loss. He decided to give back to his parish com- rently pursuing a vocation to the priesthood, a she realized how revenge had consumed her. munity, which reached out to him when his son, lifelong dream for both. “I focused all my anger on the ring leader (of Mitchell Joseph Lueken, 14, a 2013 graduate of St. The two seminarians for the Venice Diocese the crime) and ... I waited to see him get the death Vincent Ferrer School, died in an accident. took a major step closer to the priesthood when penalty. All of a sudden he looked like a scared kid Lueken spearheaded and is facilitating a new they were both ordained to the transitional dia- and all I could think of was his mom — she would ministry at St. Vincent Ferrer called “GriefShare” conate Dec. 19. Bishop Frank J. Dewane presid- suffer like I am suffering for the rest of her life. that addresses the needs of those going through ing over the ordination, and challenged the med Now I’m working to abolish the death penalty.” grief. to be “a servant of all.” Click on the ORLANDO DIOCESE above for Click on the PALM BEACH DIOCESE for more Click on the VENICE DIOCESE above for more more on this story. on this story. on this story.

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Pope: Christ’s birth can bring Bishop: Murder of mayor was National March for Life peace, hope to world message from organized crime changes venues www.thefloridacatholic.org | Jan. 8-21, 2016 FLORIDACatholic ORLANDO DIOCESE

People gather to listen to different speakers at Cities for Life/Cities Against the Death Penalty Nov. 30 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Daytona Beach. (PHOTOS BY JACQUE BRUND | FC) Faithful unite to urge end to death penalty Bishop John Noonan speaks on the importance of resisting the evil of vengeance Nov. 30 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Daytona Beach. Laura Dodson Life World Day Against the Death music band, the school children With him is Father Phillip Egitto, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes. Florida Catholic correspondent Penalty every Nov. 30 is a global and a Liturgy of the Word service. evangelization effort to bring about Guest speakers were Dale Recinel- “It means so much to those in the “The bishops have been asking Melbourne | “I realized that “a higher and more civil form of la, Catholic correctional chaplain execution chamber to know there since 1980 to eliminate the death revenge is not a cure for grief,” said justice, able to finally renounce the for Florida’s death row and solitary are brothers and sisters praying for penalty,” Recinella said. “The bish- Susan, a single mother who lost her death penalty.” confinement; Mark Elliott, execu- them,” explained Recinella who ops changed my heart; studying the son to a violent crime 10 years ago. Led by Father Phillip Egitto, pas- tive director of Floridians Against is an attorney, and since 1998 has death penalty changed my mind.” “Revenge is not a cure for anything.” tor of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, the Death Penalty; Daytona Beach been spiritual adviser to some of the “I want to commend each of you Susan was an impromptu speak- Daytona Beach was one of 2,031 Mayor Derrick Henry; and Bishop 400-plus men on death row. He said and Father Phil and Our Lady of er at the Cities for Life/Cities Against cities in 92 countries this year com- John Noonan. that the first man for whom he was Lourdes for leading the charge,” the Death Penalty event Nov. 30 at mitted to the abolition of the death I thank Father Phil for being my a spiritual adviser was innocent. said Mayor Henry. “Thank you for Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Day- penalty. The Our Lady of Lourdes light,” Bishop Noonan said, “re- Evidence — proof of his innocence being the light, for living what you tona Beach. She spoke about her ex- grotto shone with the flickering minding us that we must be lights. — came in too late, so there was a believe in, for fighting against what perience with her son’s murder. of candles and multicolored spot- Behind me is a statue of Mother procedural bar and the man was you believe to be wrong.” “No one was charged in my son’s lights. Participants overflowed the Mary who pondered in her heart. executed anyway. Growing up poor and a South- death and I had grief and rage and provided chairs; many brought Vengeance is not what we are about. “I watched the killing of an inno- ern Baptist in Kentucky, Sara nowhere to focus it,” Susan ex- their own chairs, as well as blan- We are the only civilized country cent man,” Recinella said, “and just Truhlar believed in an eye for an plained. “Then there was a hor- kets. Some sat on the grass, the side- who executes people legally. Like a few weeks later, I was spiritual ad- eye and was for the death penalty. rific murder a few blocks from my walks or stood at the periphery. Mary, we need to ponder in our viser for a botched injection.” She became Catholic in 1986 after house. I focused all my anger on the “We have gathered here tonight hearts and bring mercy and love to In studying the death penalty, marrying her husband, but it was ring leader and I wanted to see him in prayerful response to the many those in need. Until we bring God’s Recinella discovered that in a sin- a botched execution in 2006 that suffer. The boy was convicted and I acts of violence in our society,” Fa- mercy, we are not being light.” gle time period, 26 people were re- changed her mind about the death waited to see him get the death pen- ther Egitto said. “We gather not just Florida carries out the death leased from death row as innocent penalty. alty. All of a sudden he looked like as a Catholic group, but in union penalty at the Florida State Prison while 90 were executed; the mental- “Wow, the difference now,” Truh- a scared kid and all I could think of with many faith groups through- in Starke and a contingent of prayer ly ill don’t even have to know their lar said. “I’m against it and know was his mom — she would suffer out the world who are also lighting warriors is present outside the fence own name to be executed; and 10 why I’m against it, and it’s an awe- like I am suffering for the rest of her up their cities this evening. On this to pray during every execution. percent of the men on death row are some place to be when you just let it life. Now I’m working to abolish the night, in a world filled with violence They strike a bell whose gong can veterans of the U.S. armed services go, forgive it, have mercy and move death penalty.” and fear, we gather to be a sign of be heard in the execution chamber, — many with post-traumatic stress on. Pope Francis said that ‘God Begun 14 years ago by the Com- God’s mercy and compassion.” offering up a prayer with every toll disorder — and their battle medals waits for that day of awakening and munity of Sant’Egidio, a Church The program included song pro- to comfort the victim that he is not have been used as proof that the conversion and then forgives every- public lay association, the Cities for vided by the parish contemporary alone in his final journey. man is too dangerous to live. thing.’” n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 2 Students prepare for March for Life Katherine Laguna To prepare for their trip, Mc- of the Florida Catholic staff Bride scheduled an educational trip for her students to visit Op- Santa Fe LAKELAND | In less than two tions for Women Pregnancy Help Catholic weeks, 21 Santa Fe Catholic High Clinic in Lakeland. While at the High School students School students, parents and chap- facility, students went on a tour visit Options erones will travel to Washington, and learned what an appoint- for Women D.C., for the 2016 March for Life. ment is like for women who come Pregnancy They will be joined by 35 youth in looking for assistance. Mary Help Clinic group members from St. Joseph Rutherford, director of Options for in Lakeland. Parish in Winter Haven. The mis- Women, encouraged the students Registered sion of the March for Life is to “pro- to take action. nurses vide all Americans with a place to “I want all of you to be complete- Kathleen testify to the beauty of life and the ly informed about what’s affecting Sabatino, dignity of each human person.” On the U.S.,” Rutherford said. “Be- left, and the Jan. 22 anniversary of legalized come more involved in your com- Kathy abortion in the United States, hun- munities and learn more during Campagnone dreds of thousands of people travel this trip so you all can better the show the to Washington yearly to commu- future generations who will carry students how nicate the pro-life message to the the torch of perhaps changing the to read an nation in a way that is impactful law. Fifty-six million babies have ultrasound. and prayerful. This year’s theme died in the last 40 years. We need (Katherine is “Pro-Life and Pro-Woman Go the young generation.” Laguna | FC) Hand in Hand.” McBride hopes all her students “Being pilgrims alongside and others will continue to stand 400,000 people in the same place up for life, regardless of society’s at the same time all standing up norm. how to embody it. He said standing believe in the phrase, “from the The March for Life 2016 rally for the truth is a powerful experi- “We are in a culture where we’re in the ultrasound room reinforced womb to the tomb,” and that’s what will be Jan. 22 at noon on the ence,” said Bethany McBride, cam- so against true beauty and true exactly what he’s known his whole he plans to voice when he arrives in grounds of the Washington Mon- pus minister at Santa Fe Catholic love, and true sacrifice; for young life. Washington for the rally. ument. Following the rally, the High School. “The March for Life is people to really stand up for that, “When you see the sonogram “It is a really powerful feeling march will begin on Constitution like no other social teaching event. it is going to give them a tangible and hear the baby’s heartbeat, to be in a place with a lot of people Avenue, which will eventually al- Being one in a swarm of hundreds feeling and really show them that that’s someone alive inside of you,” who have the same viewpoint as low time for rally attendees to visit of thousands of others visibly they are not alone,” McBride said. said Alvin. “I think the fact that you, and I think a half million peo- their representatives or senators connects anyone, especially the In the past year, Alvin, who is people are aborting babies it’s al- ple gathered together supporting to advocate for life. Matt Birk, a youths, to comprehend that there a junior at Santa Fe, continues to most something weird to say out one cause is going to be an incred- former football player for the Bal- are other young people their age reach a better understanding of loud.” ible and powerful feeling to experi- timore Ravens, will deliver the also standing up for the truth.” what his faith means to him and Alvin said many Christians ence,” he said. keynote address. n Poor, pregnant women receive support

Katherine Laguna information she needs before she The joy of working for the Lord of the Florida Catholic staff takes action,” Rutherford said. “It continues to reassure Rutherford’s is impressive that 89 percent of our decision in becoming the execu- Lakeland | There are many women who were at risk of choos- tive director more than a decade crisis pregnancy centers that serve ing abortion, choose life for their ago. poor and pregnant women and are babies.” “My first day as director, I operated and supported by Catho- On staff are registered nurses, walked into my office and I knew lics. The centers seek to show soli- and since 2004, when the center re- God was preparing me my entire darity with these women and to ceived an $18,000 grant, the center life for this job and mission. This make known the many resources offers sonograms using its ultra- is a holy place to work. The people that are set aside to assist them in sound equipment. Those compo- God sends us believe in what we their time of need. nents have increased the number are doing and they are committed One such center is Options for of patients at the clinic. to it,” she said. Women Pregnancy Help Clinic in Kathleen Sabatino, a registered A commonality among crisis Lakeland, where Mary Rutherford, nurse and a sonographer at Op- pregnancy centers is that once a parishioner of Resurrection Par- tions for Women, serves more than women decide to keep their babies, ish, serves as executive director. 30 patients a month. A member of they are given prenatal vitamins Since 1998, the facility has worked St. John Neumann Parish, she un- and referred to a doctor. JMJ Preg- to serve clients with kindness, com- derstands her career to be a beau- nancy Center, with three locations passion and in a caring manner re- tiful ministry where supporting in Orange and Osceola County, Registered nurse Kathleen Sabatino is a sonographer at Options for gardless of religious affiliation. It is women in this crucial time period offers various support services for Women Pregnancy Help Clinic in Lakeland. (Katherine Laguna | FC.) a nonprofit medical clinic with staff is heartwarming. women who choose life for their members specially trained to an- “I’ve worked at a hospital in the babies. swer any questions regarding abor- delivery room and here (Options “The Lifting Lives Program clothing, blankets, baby bottles, neys and midwives. Thanks to the tion and pregnancy. Staff members for Women), so it’s a great privi- provides support to families fac- breast pumps, diapers, and even donations, babies and their moth- provide ultrasounds, counseling lege to be there for so many moms ing difficulties during and after car seats and cribs when avail- ers are receiving the support they and prayer for the women they who are struggling,” Sabatino said. pregnancy,” said Kellie Stewart, able. It also provides resources to need when they most need it. serve. Many women decide to con- “Sometimes in the struggle you director of JMJ. “The program is help with employment, budgeting, “Lifting Lives has four pillars tinue their pregnancy. can’t see which way to go or how it’s designed to provide unconditional escaping abuse, child care assis- and is a holistic approach to sup- “When a woman is looking on- going to turn out. I think the assur- love and support and give families tance and post-abortion recovery. porting the needs of the family. All line for a place that does abortion ance we give them, the education, hope in the light of darkness.” Also, JMJ helps connect clients of this is possible at JMJ Pregnancy and sees us among her options, the prayers, and the love make all JMJ provides material support with volunteer licensed mental Center through generous dona- we highly recommend she gets the the difference in their journey.” such as maternity clothing, baby health counselors, doctors, attor- tions,” Stewart said. n 3 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 St. Faustina Parish moves to larger worship space

Katherine Laguna of the Florida Catholic staff

Clermont | Parishioners of St. Faustina in Clermont opened the doors Dec. 19 to their new wor- ship space, a storefront located at the Glenbrook Commons Plaza in Clermont. The new location will offer more space to serve the grow- ing community. Plus it offers more parking, a new Divine Mercy devo- tional area, new sound system and office space. “The parishioners of St. Faustina are overjoyed,” said Bishop John Noonan, who celebrated each Mass over the weekend to help introduce the new space to parishioners. “Before there were only 50 park- ing spaces for 150 people, and now there is space for 500 people. There are many volunteers at St. Faustina and this community of faith will continue to grow in their ministry.” According to Father David Gil- lis, parochial administrator, the new space is a true blessing for the community. “It’s going to make us blossom and grow. We now have the space we need,” he said. One added bonus to the expan- sion is dedicated space for the bronze statue of Jesus, the Divine Mercy. Father Gillis said there had previously been no space for the statue, which was donated to the parish in 2007. Blue and gold rays extend from the heart of Jesus, rep- resenting his Divine Mercy. It stands Bishop John Noonan greets parishioners of St. Faustina after Mass With double the amount of space in the new location, St. Faustina at approximately 7.5 feet tall, and is 5 at the new storefront location in Glenbrook Commons Plaza in parishioners are now able to display a bronze Divine Mercy statue feet wide. St. Faustina was the young Clermont. The parish is currently leasing the property. (PHOTOS BY near the entrance of the worship space. The statue was the gift of Polish nun who received extraordi- Jacque Brund | FC). an anonymous donor in 2007. nary revelations from Jesus about his Divine Mercy. throughout the shopping center end have seen a light at the end of The parish was established in also.” the tunnel so we may have our per- With the 2006 and Mass was celebrated at William Murphy, a parishioner of manent church soon.” image of the Westgate Motel in a small con- St. Faustina, described the new loca- The parish community has been the parish’s ference room for a few months. The tion as “beautiful.” working together on this building patron founding pastor was the late Father “I have been helping to set up the project with Father Edward Waters, saint nearby, dean of the Northern Deanery and Steve Phillips, and he celebrated new worship space for the last few Father Mass at some of the clubhouses of days before our first Mass,” he said. pastor of St. Timothy Parish in Lady David housing developments in the area. “And I am not young, I am 78, but Lake, and Darryl Podunavac, senior Gillis of St. The parish moved to a second loca- working for the Lord is wonderful director of design, construction and Faustina tion of a former barbecue restaurant and completely gratifying.” facility maintenance services for the delivers on the east side of Highway 27. Later Currently a coordinator of the diocese. the homily the parish moved to a space with hospitality ministry, he has been a The new storefront location is in the seating for only 247 people. Even- parishioner of St. Faustina since the also closer to where the parishio- parish’s tually, additional seats were added beginning and has witnessed first- ners of St. Faustina hope to build new throughout the lobby area that was hand all the growth and growing their permanent church. This build- location separated by a wall from the main pains. He said his faith continues to ing project took a little more than that seats seating area just to accommodate flourish through this journey. two months to complete and cost more the growing attendance. “For me it is an incredible feeling around $300,000. The parish will be than 400 “Now we are in a wide-open wor- to see this community grow in the leasing the new storefront property. people. ship space with seating for 400 and last nine years. Just like the Divine “This is a step closer for the St. the capacity of 446, so we can add Mercy statue says, ‘I trust in you,’ we Faustina community in their dream some folding chairs as needed,” too have placed our trust in the Lord of finally having a permanent Father Gillis said. “Parking at the and in St. Faustina,” Murphy said. “I home,” Podunavac said. n new place is 576 available spaces believe the parishioners this week- Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 4 Refugees from Kenya settle into life in Central Florida Editor’s note: The last name WORLD DAY OF of the family profiled below is MIGRANTS AND withheld to protect their privacy. REFUGEES Christine Young Excerpt from the message from Special to the Florida Catholic Pope Francis on the World Day of Migrants and Refugees that will be MELBOURNE | On Nov. 4, Rob- observed Jan. 17: ert and his family stepped through “I have chosen as the theme of the doorway of their new home on a the 2016 World Day of Migrants ranch in Melbourne. and Refugees: ‘Migrants and Refu- The husband and wife and their gees Challenge Us: The Response of three children had arrived in Or- the Gospel of Mercy.’ lando two nights before after leav- “In our time, migration is ing Kakuma, a refugee camp in Ke- growing worldwide. Refugees and nya, where the United Nations High people fleeing from their homes Commissioner for Refugees is pro- challenge individuals and communi- viding protection and assistance to ties and their traditional ways of refugees. Robert’s family had been life; at times they upset the cultural living in the refugee camp for six and social horizons which they en- years after fleeing their home in the counter. Increasingly, the victims of Democratic Republic of Congo be- violence and poverty, leaving their cause of violence and threats from homelands, are exploited by human the Rwandan military. traffickers during their journey to- Before their arrival in the United Donna Salcedo, right, welcomes Robert and his family to their new home in Melbourne and shows them ward the dream of a better future. States, refugees often spend sev- the kitchen. She and her husband, Sergio, took in the family from Kakuma, a refugee camp in Kenya. “Migrants are our brothers and eral years displaced or in a refugee (Christine Young | FC) sisters in search of a better life, far camp. During that time, refugees away from poverty, hunger, exploi- undergo Department of Homeland tation and the unjust distribution Security background checks as well Salcedo, a retired flight attendant of the planet’s resources which are as medical examinations, which who has spent some time traveling meant to be equitably shared by all. take years to complete. the world and is familiar with Afri- Don’t we all want a better, more decent and prosperous life to share They are also screened by the can cultures. with our loved ones?” U.N., and then interviewed for “We want them to feel welcome refugee eligibility by U.S. Citizen- and safe as they build their new life.” ship and Immigration Services. said Sergio Salcedo, an emergency receive tutoring lessons as needed. Approved families are provided se- room doctor who works with hospi- Their middle and oldest children, curity clearances and are assigned tals throughout the U.S. Marveille, 17, and Giselle, 20, will be to local affiliates such as Catholic Toro said newly arrived refugees enrolled in adult education classes Charities of Central Florida for re- are often unfamiliar with household to obtain their GED and advance to settlement. Once here, Catholic appliances and need instruction on college. Charities staff members bestow things the rest of us may take for Toro explained that the Refu- mercy upon the refugees who have granted, such as a light switch or the gee Resettlement Program relies suffered unimaginable loss and suf- air-conditioning unit. on community support to furnish fering. “In their first few months, newly apartments and help set them up “We help get them started with a arrived refugees struggle most with before a new refugee family arrives. place to live, food, clothing, English the language barrier,” said Toro, Donations such as furniture, bi- lessons, employment services and Patricia, 10, opens a welcoming gift donated by one of Donna who showed Robert and his family cycles, and household and personal job training,” said Carolina Toro, Salcedo’s friends. (Christine Young | FC) how to safely use the stove top. care items are needed to help refu- employment specialist with the Ref- Over the next few months, Robert gee families begin their new life in ugee Resettlement Program, a min- preserve. In the refugee camp, he “We were looking for a way to and his family will learn English, the United States. n istry of Catholic Charities that has helped maintain a garden to feed help refugees and wanted to of- their third language; they currently been helping newly arrived refugees other families seeking refuge. Now fer them a place to stay where they speak French and Swahili. Toro To learn more about the Refugee Re- from across the world begin a new he is living in a ranch in Melbourne won’t have to worry about paying will help Robert’s wife, Solange, 42, settlement Program and how you can life in Central Florida since 1975. with Sergio and Donna Salcedo, rent and can focus on saving money find a job in the community. Their help, visit www.cflcc.org/refugee- In his home country, Robert was who welcomed the refugee family to one day move out on their own youngest, Patricia, 10, will attend resettlement-program. a biologist and worked on a nature into their home. and live independently,” said Donna the local elementary school and Prayer service for persecuted Christians Jan. 22 The community is invited to Byzantine Catholic Church, and in Christ,” said Deborah Stafford The pope reminds all Christians welcome and listen to each other,” a prayer service for persecuted Personal Ordinariate of the Chair Shearer, director of the diocesan that although there are differences said Pope Francis at the closing of Christians on Friday, Jan. 22, 7 of St. Peter. Office of Advocacy and Justice. in faith or in traditions, those dif- last year’s Week of Prayer for Chris- p.m., at St. Jude Maronite Parish, “Our Holy Father has encour- “Pope Francis asks each of us to ferences shouldn’t outweigh the tian Unity. “We need each other to 5555 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando. aged all people to pray for those embrace those who are persecuted respect and patience we should come together and face each other Churches from the following faith who continue to be persecuted in with our prayers and remember have for one another. “In order to under the guidance of the Holy traditions will participate: Maroni- an effort to form greater solidar- their suffering during the week of understand each other and grow Spirit who harmonizes diversity te Rite, Ukranian Catholic Church, ity with our brothers and sisters Prayer for Christian Unity.” in love and truth we have to stop, and overcomes conflicts.” n 5 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016

nd a voice Jesus is our example came from ‘A heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I for being Faith Fit am well pleased”’ Florida My Sisters and Brothers in Christ: open the eyes of the blind, to bring from confinement. We will gather — (Lk 3:22). out prisoners from confinement, to pray on Jan. 22 for persecuted Catholic Are you “Faith Fit”? At the start and from the dungeon, those who Christians during Christian Unity DIOCESE OF ORLANDO of the new year, many people pro- live in darkness” (Is 42:6-7). Week to bring out those who live in Vol. 77, No. 5 claim resolutions that they will seek As Jesus is our example for being darkness. us beyond death, faith is also a light to become trimmer, fitter, better. Faith Fit, so we are an example to Through Catholic Charities of coming from the future and open- 50 East Robinson St. As Catholics, we may each other. Showing our Central Florida, parishioners in ing before us vast horizons which P.O. Box 1800 reflect upon and renew faith by participating in Brevard County are a light for the guide us beyond our isolated selves Orlando, FL 32802-1800 407-246-4800 Fax 407-246-4942 our baptismal covenant the celebration of Mass to nations as they help a refugee fam- towards the breadth of commu- with God in which we receive the Holy Eucharist ily from Kenya resettle in our coun- nion. We come to see that faith does PUBLISHER promised to be Faith Fit, to is the most profound ex- try. Soon, we will launch an Internet not dwell in shadow and gloom; it is Bishop John Noonan be holy. Holiness is about ample we can offer each English radio station called Faith Fit a light for our darkness.” being wholly integrated — other and by our partici- as another resource to help us stay How are you an example of being DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS body, mind and soul. We pation, we are being fed focused on God. Seventh-grade Faith Fit? Teresa Lantigua Peterson [email protected] care for our whole person. the Bread of Life to keep students from St. Brendan Catholic As Jesus was being baptized, Our faith should not be an Bishop us Faith Fit. Availing our- School in Ormond Beach began the our heavenly Father, gave him the WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER object or a cultural event; John selves to the Sacrament Jubilee of Mercy reflecting on times ultimate stamp of approval when Katherine Laguna rather, our faith, our call to Noonan of Penance refreshes our when they were unmerciful to oth- a voice came from heaven saying, [email protected] holiness, is the living expe- spirit as we receive divine ers and how God’s mercy leads us “You are my beloved Son; with you 407-246-4924 rience of God in all things. mercy for our sins against “out of the dungeon” when we are I am well pleased” (Lk 3:22). Would To submit a request for news coverage Jesus is the example of holiness God and neighbor. truly sorry and allows us to live life our heavenly Father say the same in the Diocese of Orlando, email news@ for us. God is the center of Jesus’ Other examples fill the pages of anew. for each one of us? Let us make be- orlandodiocese.org. life. Jesus tells the good news to this issue of the Florida Catholic. Pope Francis said in Lumen Fi- ing Faith Fit in this Jubilee of Mercy • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: everyone. He is not afraid to do so. You will read about students of San- dei, “Faith, received from God as a our resolution. n Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, We are in the Christmas season and ta Fe High School who are travel- supernatural gift, becomes a light or customerservice@theflorida delight in proclaiming that Jesus is ling to Washington, D.C., to march for our way, guiding our journey Sincerely yours in Christ, catholic.org the good news! We are also enjoined for life, trying to open the eyes of through time. On the one hand, it through our Baptism to be the good the blind about the precious gift of is a light coming from the past, the Notify us of address changes (temporary news. Jesus shows us how to be life from conception through natu- light of the foundational memory of or permanent) as soon as possible. Please change your address online at www. merciful like the Father, as he ful- ral death. Parishioners of Our Lady the life of Jesus which revealed his thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at fills the words of Isaiah: “I formed of Lourdes in Daytona Beach learn perfectly trustworthy love, a love 1-888-275-9953. you, and set you as a covenant of about respecting the life of those in capable of triumphing over death. Most Reverend John Noonan the people, a light for the nations, to prison, so that we might bring them Yet since Christ has risen and draws Bishop of Orlando • ADVERTISING: Contact Jane Radetsky at 407-373-0075 or [email protected] • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at 1-888-275-9953, or year of mercy fundraiser for haitians [email protected]

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Have a comment/want more info/ have a story suggestion? Leave your feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; click reader feedback button on left of screen. Students from St. Brendan Catholic School in Ormond Beach take Send statewide news releases to part in a prayer service Dec. 8, the first day of the Extraordinary Our Lady of Fatima in Orlando, the haitian Catholic mission, hosted [email protected] Jubilee Year of Mercy as declared by Pope Francis. The seventh- its annual holiday gala fundraising event Dec. 26 at the rosen graders were asked to think about times when they were Center hotel in Orlando. The mission, a refuge for healing, joining Our staff meets for prayer each work day at unmerciful to others, then listed these acknowledgements on the Catholic faith, the haitian culture and haitian-American reality, 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ paper. The notes were collected in a box, which was sealed and branches out in a variety of ways to bestow care to the young, elderly, thefloridacatholic.org buried in the school’s prayer garden as the class recited the pope’s and poor in addition to providing spiritual help to those in need. special prayer for the Year of Mercy. (COurTESY PhOTO). (COurTESY PhOTO) All contents copyright © 2016, The Florida Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from Catholic News Service.

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Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 6 bishop noonan’s Christmas homily ‘When all seems impossible, lost and forgotten there is still peace, hope and love’ Text of Bishop John Noonan’s more than 2,000 years ago. Father Jose Christmas homily, delivered He became lost in his thoughts Bautista, during midnight Mass at St. and emotions until his daughter pastor of St. James Cathedral, Orlando. Catherine interrupted him — “Can we go of Siena now?” All the reflection and de- Parish in Christmas is a time of wonder- votion of an older generation was Kissimmee, ment and mystery. We celebrate it alien to her. Yet his daughter knew kneels in in ways like no other time during the Bible stories, but not in the way front of the year. The world offers count- in which he was intrigued by them. the Nativity less blessings and pleasures in life. The ultimate challenge for her scene on Christmas can be a time to reflect would be to understand and make Christmas and contemplate on the deeper sense of this one day. Day. meaning of life. David Gregory, Their next stop was at a nearby (Katherine TV newscaster and former White orphanage for children run by re- Laguna House correspondent, wrote a ligious sisters. His daughter had | FC) book recently — “How’s Your Faith: no idea why there was an orphan- An Unlikely Spiritual Journey.” Mr. age, but was excited at the sight of Gregory considered himself non- all the children. A nun welcomed religious and culturally Jewish. them and invited his daughter to When he lost his job, he began to hold one of the babies. His daugh- search for answers to the ques- ter smiled and was delighted to tions about life. He studied Scrip- hold a baby in her arms. The rest of ture and sought the best religious the family moved about and visited minds for advice, from rabbis to with the rest of the children. They cardinals. returned about 10 or 15 minutes He discovered that this search later and there was their daughter could not become another project. still holding the baby and not the He realized he was seeking an- least bit bored. swers to the frustrations and faults Scott Hahn realized at that mo- in his life. Slowly he began to open ment that his teenage daughter himself up to a new gift of humility; was about the same age as another an opening of his heart to deal with teenage girl. She too had come to his faults and failings in a way that this town from far away. Her jour- he never experienced before. This ney of 80 miles, however, took lon- spiritual awakening led him to re- ger than their flight from New York. alize, truth, goodness and love are It was here in these primitive con- beautiful gifts of life. He became ditions in the little town of Bethle- more conscious of his relationship hem that the baby in Mary’s arms with his wife, his children, his par- brought fulfillment to her and all ents and others. He found a new who saw this scene. We have re- purpose and meaning. “I became membered this scene and the radi- humble; my life took on a new ance of mother and child. Even to meaning and purpose,” he said. this day, this scene is celebrated in Christmastime can cause us to our midst. reflect on the simplicity and mys- Scott Hahn summarized his tery of the birth of Christ and what visit to Bethlehem with his family meaning it brings into our lives. with these words, “In Bethlehem We sing joyful hymns of praise. I know I saw the joy of Christmas We listen to the Scripture readings — not exactly at the spot of the Na- telling the story of this event. Isa- tivity but in a nearby orphanage. iah, the prophet, tells us the people Christ is the Word made flesh. The who walked in darkness have seen joy and the love that I witnessed a great light. St. Luke tells us a Sav- between a young woman and the ior has been born for us. We hear child placed in her arms were more that the heavenly angels sing glory powerful and meaningful than all to God in the highest and peace on my seminary and doctoral pur- earth to people of good will for to- suits.” day a Savior has been born for you. This great mystery of the Christ What does all this mean? How can Child is a lifelong journey of faith, we understand this great mystery but it only takes a moment to ex- and meaning of life? perience his presence. Christmas Scott Hahn is a convert to Ca- is not a powerful offer or proposal, tholicism, professor of religion but a simple invitation to welcome and married father with children. the Christ Child into your heart, so He wrote a book called “Joy to the that this Christ Child may teach World” about his experience of you about peace, hope and love. visiting the Holy Land with his When all seems impossible, lost family one Christmas. On visiting and forgotten, there is still peace, the site in Bethlehem where Jesus hope and love because God made it was born, his heart was filled with possible for us to believe by becom- 34929-0108 emotions just reflecting on what ing a little Child for you and me. n happened there on that very site 7 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 A community of respect for the dignity of the human person Katherine Laguna ‘Bishop Grady Villas of the Florida Catholic staff is very individualized. ST. CLOUD | Life and the dig- In our setting, the nity of the human person is a fun- damental teaching for Catholics individual is respected. who advocate for the protection of We focus on their gifts human life at all stages, regardless of an individual’s challenges. and their special talents, That vision is lived out in the growing community of Bishop and give them the Grady Villas in St. Cloud, which opportunity to share since 2004 has supported persons with disabilities to use their God- their gifts with the given gifts to achieve greater inde- community.’ pendence, physical and emotional well-being, and spiritual growth. Inside the villas, adults with in- Kevin Johnson tellectual disabilities are taught to Eden, a resident of Bishop Grady Laura, right, a Bishop Grady Villas resident takes pride in her work live as members of their communi- Olympics in Osceola County where Villas since 2008, wears her Sea at Chick-fil-a. ty, each according to their abilities. she competes in track and field, golf World uniform proudly. She The assisted living facility provides and swimming events.” currently works at the theme a safe space for adults who benefit Eden is also an ambassador for park as a team member of the from a group atmosphere and indi- the Special Olympics, speaking to food and beverage department. vidual support from staff and vol- groups about it. Bishop Grady Vil- (Courtesy PhotoS). unteers. Executive director Kevin las has assisted Eden with her job Johnson is hopeful that Bishop skills and taught her how to use open at all times. Grady Villas will continue to be Lynx for transportation to and from Johnson agrees with the federal recognized as an excellent model work. government’s initiative to promote for serving adults with disabilities. However, recent changes in fed- community settings for adults with “Bishop Grady Villas is very in- eral rules for Medicaid and Medi- disabilities, but he believes that an dividualized,” Johnson said. “In care could impact Bishop Grady “array of options” is necessary to our setting, the individual is re- Villas in the future. In 2014, a rule address the needs of this special spected. We focus on their gifts and was issued by the Centers for Medi- group of individuals. their special talents, and give them care and Medicaid that relates to “It is important to have a wide the opportunity to share their gifts funding for home and community- range of options for individuals with the community.” based services. The rule imposes with disabilities so they can find Eden, a resident of Bishop Grady new standards on group settings a place where they may flourish,” Villas since 2008, is one of those in- for adults with disabilities. The said Johnson. dividuals who has flourished. She intent is to help individuals to be By operating Bishop Grady Vil- Residents of Bishop Grady Villas tour a local Publix Supermarket. currently works at Sea World in the as integrated into the community las, the Catholic Church is seeking food and beverage department, is a as possible. There is currently a to support families who made the death she would be there to sup- dry, and most of all be a part of a parishioner of St. Thomas Aquinas five-year implementation period decision to raise their children, and port Karen. While seeking a good wonderful household of women,” Parish in St. Cloud, and volunteers for states to meet the new stan- choose the villas as the best setting living arrangement for Karen, Bar- said Barbara. “She has developed as an usher every Sunday at the dards, ending in 2019. According to for their loved ones as they become bara discovered Bishop Grady Vil- the independence she has never 8:30 a.m. Mass. Johnson, there are some concerns adults. las. Karen became a resident of the had before.” “Eden enjoys pottery and is that Bishop Grady Villas could be For example, Barbara — whose villas in November of 2008 and has “The state of Florida is very sup- taking her third class at Osceola viewed as an institutional setting, last name is not being used for blossomed ever since. portive of our setting and knows Center for the Arts,” said David simply because it has a vehicular privacy — is legal guardian of her “She attends adult day training that our program is designed to Schumacher, assistant residential security gate that is closed over- cousin Karen, who is blind. Bar- every day where she is re-develop- support people to live indepen- programs manager/volunteer co- night for the safety of residents. bara promised her aunt and uncle ing her Braille skills, has learned to dently as possible and to be inte- ordinator. “She is active in Special There are pedestrian gates that are years ago that in the event of their clean her own room, do her laun- grated as possible,” said Johnson. n Thousands of students will gather for ‘Rally in Tally’ Katherine Laguna ness of the value of scholarships choice rallies in the nation’s his- shall ever be taken from the public schools, 13,369 students benefit of the Florida Catholic staff for low-income families. The schol- tory. The event will feature keynote treasury directly or indirectly in aid from the program, including 3,156 arships are subject to a pending speaker Martin Luther King III — of any church, sect, or religious de- students in the Diocese of Orlando. ORLANDO | On Jan. 19, students lawsuit (McCall v. Scott) against son of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and nomination or in aid of any sectar- Participants at the rally will and chaperones from throughout the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship Coretta Scott King — and parents ian institution.” march a couple of blocks from the Florida are scheduled to attend the Program. The rally is organized by and families who benefit from the However, the scholarship has Civic Center to the Capitol, which “Rally in Tally” event in Tallahas- Florida Voices for Choices, which scholarship program. helped thousands of students to at- is located across the street from the see. Students, parents and school is seeking to maintain the scholar- The lawsuit argues the scholar- tend the school of their choosing. Supreme Court building. administrators will represent more ship program that serves 78,000 ship program violates two sections In the 2015-2016 school year, it pro- “We are fighting for our kids to than 35 Catholic schools from Flor- economically disadvantaged chil- of the Florida Constitution, such as vided $447.3 million in scholarships, get the education they deserve,” ida, five of which are from the Dio- dren. Organizers have set a goal of Article I Section 3, which states “no which is close to 78,000 low-income said Catherine Durkin Robinson, cese of Orlando. 10,000 students, which would make revenue of the state or any politi- children in more than 1,500 private executive director of Florida Voices The event seeks to raise aware- the event among the largest school cal subdivisions or agency thereof schools. Within Florida’s Catholic for Choices. n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 8

Must be 18 or older and able to DIOCESAN EVENTS DIOCESAN EVENTS MASSES/PRAYER lift furniture. Jennifer.Powers@ WITH BISHOP JOHN NOONAN SESSIONS cflcc.org; or 407-658-1818, ext. Prison Ministry training: 1061. Saturday, Jan. 16, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., • Volunteer medical St. Joseph Parish, 210 W. Lemon Christian Unity celebration/prayer Queen of the Universe, 8300 Vineland Helper’s Mass and rosary: Saturday, Feb. 6, 9-noon, St. professionals such as MDs, PAs, St., Lakeland. Training sessions service: Friday, Jan. 22, 7-9 p.m., St. Jude Ave., Orlando. Bishop John Noonan invites for new and current ministers Augustine Parish, Casselberry. RNs, OBGYNs, EKG technicians, Maronite Church, 5555 Dr. Philips Blvd., all to show gratitude for the women and Mass to pray for the unborn, endocrinologists, orthopedic will include: ministering in a Orlando. Prayer service for persecuted men who have consecrated their lives to prison or jail, re-entry support for healing for the mothers and surgeons, certified health former prisoners, ministering to Christians. Participating faith traditions Jesus. fathers and conversion of staff educators, general and nurse families of the incarcerated and include: Maronite Rite, Ukranian Catholic Diocesan Mass for Marriage: and doctors. Office of Advocacy practitioners needed at each more. Christine Shields, cshields@ Church, Byzantine Catholic Church, Per- Saturday, Feb. 13, 10 a.m., St. James and Justice, 407-658-1818, clinic. [email protected], Lazarus Free Medical Clinic in orlandodiocese.org. sonal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter. Cathedral, 215 N. Orange Ave., ext. 2086; advocacyjustice@ Held in observance of Week of Prayer orlandodiocese.org. Wildwood; Erin.Burley@cflcc. End-of-life presentation: Orlando. Bishop John Noonan will org, St. Luke’s Free Medical and for Christian Unity Jan. 18-25. Office of Saturday, Jan. 16, 9 a.m.-noon. celebrate multilingual Mass for all Dental Clinic in Eustis; Kelly. St. Anthony Parish, 820 Marcum Advocacy and Justice, 407-658-1818 Catholic married couples and families, VOLUNTEERS [email protected], St. Thomas Road, Lakeland. Learn about a [email protected]. and bless couples who will also renew Free Medical Clinic in St. Cloud. Catholic declaration on life and Mass for World Day of Conse- their wedding vows. Secretariat of NEEDED death, also known as an advance Life Choices Women’s crated Life: Saturday, Jan. 30, 11 a.m. Evangelization and Family Life, 407- Center, a Catholic pro-life directive. Office of Advocacy and Catholic Charities of Central Justice, 863-858-8047. Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, 246-4882. pregnancy resource center, 600 Florida seeks volunteers for the E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte March for Life in St. following programs: Springs, is in need of volunteer Augustine: Saturday, Jan. 16, 10 • Semoran food pantry in Saturday, March. 19, 9 a.m.- worship leader at Franciscan lay counselors (training a.m.-2 p.m. Buses are available Orlando volunteers help sort, 2 p.m., St. Paul Parish, 1330 University of Steubenville summer provided), nurses to perform from various churches around pack, stock and distribute food Sunshine Ave., Leesburg. Training conferences. Tickets: $5, or $15 for ultrasounds (training provided), the diocese. Cost: $25, adults; to those in need. Must be 16 or sessions for new and current a family up to six. To order: www. administrative assistance, $15, youths; free for children older. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- ministers will include ministering holyspiritmims.com/events or 321- handymen, help with light under 12. Office of Advocacy and noon, and 1-3:30 p.m. Derrick. in a prison or jail, re-entry support 698-3972. cleaning, and receptionists. Also Justice, 407-658-1818, ext. 2086; [email protected]; 407-658-1818, for former prisoners, ministering accepting donations of baby advocacyjustice@orlandodiocese. “Mardi Gras Our Way”: ext. 2335. to families of the incarcerated Friday, Jan. 22, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., items, especially diapers and org. • Emergency Family Services and more. Christine Shields, Divine Mercy Parish, 1940 N. wipes. Drop off during office Greater Orlando eighth clerical/administrative volunteers [email protected]. Courtenay Parkway, Merritt hours. 321-422-4168. annual Human Trafficking in Orlando to assist with data Island. Hosted by parish Council Awareness Day: Saturday, Jan. entry, copying, filing and of Catholic Women. Includes 23, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lake Eola Park, organization. Monday-Friday, 10 luncheon, fashion show, bingo, SUPPORT 512 E. Washington St., Orlando. RETREATS/DAYS a.m.-2 p.m. [email protected]; auctions and fun time for all. The diocesan Human Trafficking 407-658-1818, ext. 1305. OF REFLECTION Tickets: $20. 321-453-4180. MINISTRIES/ Task Force will have a booth to • Refugee youth mentor in “Dead Man Walking” with help Catholics become aware of San Pedro Center retreats: Orlando to help refugee children PEER GROUPS Sister Helen Prejean: Friday, this horrific reality and to educate 2400 Dike Road, Winter Park. For learn to speak English and learn Jan. 15, 7 p.m., Our Lady of Separated and divorced: the public on how to prevent it. more information or to register: American culture. One-two hours Lourdes Parish, 1014 N. Halifax • Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Holy Deacon Fred Molina, DOHTTF@ www.sanpedrocenter.org/ weekly, flexible schedule. Must Ave., Daytona Beach. Discussion Redeemer Parish, 1603 N. Thacker, orlandodiocese.org. retreats-programs, 407-671-6322. be 21 or older. Carly.Matthews@ about life, death and social Kissimmee. Sylvester, 407-406- Rituals of the Easter Vigil • Senior day retreat: cflcc.org or 407-658-1818, ext. justice. Sister Prejean of the 0707. and Easter Sunday workshops: Thursday, Jan. 14, 9 a.m.-2 1026. Congregation of St. Joseph is Presented for those who are p.m. “Sacraments: Larger than • Catholic Divorce Survival an advocate against the death • Receptionist with Family responsible for the preparation life signs — Larger than life Guide, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., penalty and author of “Dead Empowerment Program in Winter and celebration of particular gestures,” facilitated by Father Cost: $30, scholarships available; Man Walking.” 386-255-0433. Haven to answer phones, greet first Fridays, Mass and dinner, liturgies and rites of the Church, Ben Berinti, Missionaries of the guests, schedule appointments, Annual rummage sale: social; St. Margaret Mary Parish, such as pastoral musicians, Most Precious Blood. Cost: $15. operate copy and fax machine. Friday, Jan. 15, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; and 526 Park Ave. N., Winter Park. Lori sacramental preparation • Senior day retreat: Thursday, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, 8 a.m.-noon, Reinneck, lori@stmargaretmary. catechists, priest presiders and Feb. 11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. “Mercy and [email protected]; 863- Holy Spirit Parish, 644 S. Ninth St., org, 407-645-0284. deacons. Free. Office of Music and healing of Our Lady of Lourdes,” 288-7983, ext. 104. Lake Wales. Sponsored by parish Liturgy, 407-246-4860. facilitated by Franciscan Father • Coffee and conversation, Council of Catholic Women. • Tax preparers for Family • Saturday, Feb. 6, 9:30-11:30 Anthony Aarons. Cost: $15. second Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Our Lady Items for sale include glassware, Empowerment Program in of Lourdes, 1014 N. Halifax Ave., a.m., Most Precious Blood, 113 • Lenten weekend retreat: Lakeland and Winter Haven to Lockwood Blvd., Ovideo. decorations, toys, jewelry, Daytona Beach. Terre, 386-238- Friday, Feb. 26-Monday, Feb. 28. furniture, clothing, baked goods. prepare federal tax returns for 3631. • Saturday, Feb. 20, 9:30-11:30 “Walking to the font,” facilitated low-/moderate-income people a.m., Our Saviour Parish, 5301 N. by Franciscan Father Giles from January to April 15, 2016. Families with incarcerated Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach. Schinelli. Cost: $100, commuters. CONCERT Free 32-40 hour training provided loved ones: Young adult retreat: • Senior day retreat: Thursday, in October, November and • Third Saturdays, 8:45 a.m., St. Saturday, Feb. 6, 8 a.m., St. March 10, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. “Praying December. Martha.Murphy@cflcc. Mary Magdalen Parish, Mother “Requiem for the Teresa Room, 861 Maitland Ave., Vincent de Paul Regional the Psalms,” facilitated by Innocents” concert: Friday, org; 863-288-7983, ext. 104. Seminary, 10701 S. Military Trail, Franciscan Father Giles Schinelli. • Refugee resettlement Altamonte Springs. 407-463-5780 Jan. 29, 7 p.m., Good Shepherd or email [email protected]. Boynton Beach. Opportunity Please bring a Bible. Cost: $15. Parish, 5900 Oleander Drive, mentors in Orlando to “adopt-a- for reflection, fellowship Orlando. Features choir from the family” to help introduce newly Bereavement support and testimonials by priests, Basilica of the National Shrine arrived refugees to American groups: seminarians, religious sisters, COMMUNITY of Mary, Queen of the Universe, culture and help them learn • Blessed Trinity Parish, lay evangelists and faculty. with the work of E. Louis Canter, and practice English. Jennifer. Building L, 5 S.E. 17th St., Mass and adoration of Blessed EVENTS composer and narrator. Music [email protected]; 407-658-1818, Ocala, multiple groups; and Sacrament, reconciliation was composed to reflect on the ext. 1061. first Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. “A Night to Glorify” with opportunities, praise and effects of abortion and the hope • Furniture pickups and Compassionate Friends, Ocala Bob Rice: Saturday, Jan. 16, worship. Fee: $20. To register: of reconciliation and forgiveness apartment setups in Orlando: chapter, for bereaved families 7 p.m., Titusville High School www.20somethingretreat. for transgressions against life. Volunteers help staff pick up who have experienced the death Performing Arts, 150 S. Terrier wordpress.com. Office of Free, but donations greatly furniture and set up apartments of a child. Peggy McClaskey, 352- Trail, Titusville. Night of fellowship Vocations, 407-246-4875. appreciated. 407-277-3939, for refugees before they arrive. 694-2978. and music with award-winning Focus on vocations: Saturday, [email protected]. Feb. 27, 5-9:30 p.m., Holy Family songwriter, who is the featured Parish, 5125 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. An opportunity for all high school youths in the diocese to learn about religious life, married life, and what God is calling them to do. Students view exhibits from various religious communities and orders, and interact with priests, religious sisters, brothers and seminarians, and married couples. Optional Mass at 5, registration 34177-0108 6:15. Keynote speaker: Father Richard Pagano, Diocese of St. Augustine. Darcey Dinh, ddinh@ 34577-0108 orlandodiocese.org. Prison ministry training: www.thefloridacatholic.org | Jan. 8-21, 2016 FLORIDACatholic PALM BEACH DIOCESE In grief support, listening lends itself to healing

LINDA REEVES SUPPORT GROUPS of the Florida Catholic staff IN THE DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH DELRAY BEACH | Two years There are groups in the Diocese of Ignatius Loyola, Military Trail, Palm ago, Darin Lueken suddenly lost Palm Beach that address the needs Beach Gardens. For those who have his young son. Today, he holds tight of those going through grief. The first lost a loved one and want to talk the memory of his faith community step is to check with your parish. Here about the loss or its effects. 561-622- reaching out compassionately to are a few examples of programs held 2565. him and his wife and daughter who in various areas. • Bereavement support group, were suffering from the tragedy, • St. Mark Parish in Boynton Mondays, 10-11:30 a.m., St. Lucie and the shock and loss. Beach is forming a new support group. Parish, 280 S.W. Prima Vista Blvd., Port “On the anniversary of my son’s If you are interested in joining the new St. Lucie. Group meets in the parish death, I found that I wanted to com- group, call Sally Moore, 561-215- center library. All those who want to mit myself to St. Vincent Ferrer,” 8732. talk and share feelings in a safe place said Lueken, about his decision to • GriefShare, Jan. 16, 10 a.m.- where confidentiality is important are give back to his parish community, noon, St. Vincent Ferrer, 840 George welcome and encouraged to attend. which reached out to him when his Bush Blvd., Delray Beach. A 13-week 772-878-1215. son, Mitchell Joseph Lueken, 14, a group session with video presentation, • Bereavement support group, 2013 graduate of St. Vincent Ferrer discussions and reflection. Join in on Tuesday, 7 p.m., St. Peter Parish, 1701 School, died in an accident. sessions at any time. 561-289-2542 or Indian Creek Parkway, Jupiter. Two- Lueken spearheaded and is fa- [email protected]. hour, structured sessions. Small-group cilitating a new ministry at St. Vin- • Grief and loss support group: setting with meetings over 10 weeks. cent Ferrer called “GriefShare” that Tuesdays, 10 a.m., Cathedral of St. 561-575-0837. addresses the needs of those going through grief. The next GriefShare session begins just after the holi- days as the new year begins, a tough ‘I lost my mother and my Sally Moore, a parishioner of St. time for many dealing with the loss Mark in Boynton Beach, also pre- of a loved one. The next GriefShare husband 20 years ago. sented a program at her parish in is scheduled for Jan. 16, 10 a.m.- Grief never goes away. November to help the grieving pre- noon, at St. Vincent Ferrer, and ses- pare for the holiday season. “The sions will be held each week for 13 You just have to learn to more you have someone to listen to weeks. The sessions include presen- your story, the better you will heal,” tations, discussions and reflection. live with it. We can go she said about seeking group sup- “It is OK to grieve,” said Lueken, on. Learn with others. port and good listeners. who certainly knows firsthand the Moore said the pain from the loss pain that results from the death of That is how I healed.’ of a loved one can be both physi- a loved one can be excruciating. cally and emotionally wearing, He said that the grieving process is Sally Moore and the pain of grief grips everyone natural and so are memories, flash- differently. She explained that grief backs and tears that may come work is an ongoing process and is along with loss. thanks for what the program has never fully or finally accomplished. “It is normal. Christ even wept given to them. It is very rewarding The pain does lessen and it comes over his friend Lazarus,” he ex- to me.” less frequently over time. The statue of Grief and History stands near the U.S. Capitol dome in plained about the Lord mourning The sessions are for all ages. “We “I lost my mother and my hus- Washington. (Kevin Lamarque, Reuters | CNS) and grieving over the death of the have had an older couple who lost band 20 years ago,” said Moore, a brother of Mary and Martha. their son who was in his 50s. We former hospice worker. “Grief nev- The GriefShare program is de- have had widows. We had people er goes away. You just have to learn Gloria Stevenson heads up a Members of the St. Ignatius signed by Church Initiative, a who have lost siblings,” said Lu- to live with it. We can go on. Learn grief and loss support group on Loyola support group shared nondenominational, nonprofit eken. with others. That is how I healed.” Tuesday mornings at the Cathedral their thoughts and ideas about ministry headquartered in North Participants can sit in on as She is now forming a support of St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach coping and going through the Carolina that publishes faith-based many or as few programs as they group at St. Mark Parish. All are in- Gardens. The sessions are open to grief: programs. The two-hour programs need or want. Some of those par- vited to join the group. Catholics and people of all faiths • Take care of yourself physi- each week are aimed at helping ticipating in the ministry have re- Franciscan Sister Joan Millecan who want to join in for fellowship, cally, emotionally and spiritually. people meet challenges and move cently lost a loved one, and others began bereavement ministry at conversation, listening, sharing Don’t set your needs aside to please on toward rebuilding a life devas- continue to grieve after the loss of St. Mark Parish 13 years ago. She and coffee. Those who attend ses- others. tated by loss. a loved one many years ago. “One is a highly respected pioneer and sions have experienced loss and • Talk about how you are feel- After his son’s death, Lueken key thing is that we don’t measure leader in the field and has pro- continue to experience grief. ing rather than hiding your feel- searched for support and sat in on grief,” said Lueken. “Grief is unique. vided guidance to other ministers Stevenson experiences the pain ings. Choose wisely with whom to a hospice grief group program, but We provide a safe environment. at parishes, helping them set up associated with the loss of her son share your feelings. felt the need for something more. You are with people who know the ministries. “Grieving is unique,” many years ago. She said the holi- • Make plans, but if needed, He found a GriefShare program at pain.” she said about people having their days and the beginning of a new keep the plans tentative. a Boca Raton Protestant church. He A new year with hope and goals own grieving process. “Coping year can be very hard times. “Per- • Travel to family if possible. Be liked the program, and felt called to often brings on sadness, struggles is unique. Grieving takes many sonally, feeling the loss of family is with family. bring it to St. Vincent Ferrer. and heartache for those reflecting shapes and forms. Coping takes most painful. To cope, I try to find • Pray, and God sends a plan. “St. Vincent Ferrer has been on the past. Lueken said coping is on many shapes and forms. Some substitute family.” She also sug- • Build a new tradition for great about opening up to the pro- difficult, but take one day at a time. want to be alone. Keeping quiet can gested attending a group session yourself/family. gram,” said Lueken. “Everyone “I know it is tough. Don’t plan any- be a way to cope. You go with your to share and be with and listen to • Acknowledge the loss. Raise always prays at the end and gives thing that you can’t handle.” emotions.” others. a glass to toast your loved one. n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 2 Religious sisters honored during luncheon

LINDA REEVES of the Florida Catholic staff

LAKE WORTH | The ladies were decked out in red and green, and Father Clemens Hammerschmitt, pastor of St. Matthew Parish, wore a tall chef’s hat and white apron as festivities began. “This is our annual event to show our appreciation to the religious sisters,” said Laurie Ulseth, chair- woman of the diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s “Take a Sister to Lunch” event. This year, the lun- cheon was held at host St. Matthew Parish in Lake Worth, and the af- ternoon get-together, which pays Father Clemens Hammerschmitt, pastor of St. Matthew Parish and Sister Dorothy Mary Mangan, left, a member of the Sisters of Charity tribute to the religious women min- spiritual adviser for the diocesan Council of Catholic Women, works in who serves at St. Matthew Parish in Lake Worth, is greeted by council istering throughout the Diocese of his parish kitchen putting final personal touches on dishes prepared women Betty McManus, right, and Rita Gleason, center, as she arrived Palm Beach, had a good turnout for the “Take A Sister to Lunch” event Dec. 5 organized by the at the “Take A Sister to Lunch” event Dec. 5. despite the heavy rain in South diocesan council. (PHOTOS BY LINDA REEVES |FC) Florida. Women from the councils of vari- ous parishes in the diocese attend- ed the midday event with umbrellas in hand. Father Hammerschmitt, spiritual adviser for the council, vol- unteered to cook. Father Hammer- schmitt is known for his fine cook- ing skills and delicious dishes. This was the fifth year he has cooked for the event. Before his generous of- fer of time and culinary talents, the council women organized events at local restaurants. Father Hammerschmitt ap- peared to be a natural in the par- ish’s large kitchen, tending to the food when we arrived. He told the Florida Catholic that he enjoys Council woman Josie Randazzo, a parishioner of St. Paul of the Sister Maria Teresa Pacheco-Sosa, a member of the Guadalupana cooking and trying new dishes and Cross in North Palm Beach, chats with Sister Beatrice Cortes of the Missionaries of the Holy Spirit, speaks to council woman Mary Brocato is self-taught over the years. He Guadalupana Missionaires of Holy Spirit, who serves St. Peter Parish of St. Peter Parish in Jupiter. Sister Pacheco-Sosa serves at St. Peter spent hours in the kitchen prepar- in Jupiter. and works with the large Hispanic community there. ing dishes with his own personal touches for the council women. council woman Rita Gleason. “I feel large tables sharing the meal The religious women we spoke women of the parishes,” said Sister Volunteers from the parish also like there is not enough done for the and conversations with religious to said the day is also a good experi- Maria Teresa Pacheco-Sosa of the helped organize the tables, chairs religious sisters.” The day featured women. “The religious educate the ence for them. They get to spend the Guadalupana Missionaries of the and decorations in the parish hall. good food, fellowship and fun, and council women about their different day with other Catholic women and Holy Spirit who serves at St. Peter “We have been here setting up the council women appeared to ministries,” said Jean Waddington learn about them. Parish in Jupiter. “We come to share since yesterday,” said volunteer and enjoy the afternoon, sitting around about time well spent. “We come to meet the council in Jesus’ love.” n Parish celebrates anniversary Sts. Cyril and Methodius Byzan- sacramental ministry has been pro- tine Catholic Church in Fort Pierce vided by Right Rev. Archimandrite celebrated its 25th anniversary. The Glen Pothier, adjutant judicial vicar parish family of the Ruthenian- of the Diocese of Palm Beach, who Byzantine Eparchy of Passaic, N.J., has bi-ritual faculties to celebrate gathered in celebration of the an- in the Ruthenian-Byzantine rite. niversary Nov. 29. Bishop Kurt During the anniversary celebration Burnette of the Eparchy of Passaic Bishop Burnette appointed Father attended and celebrated the Divine Scott Boghossian as parochial ad- Liturgy. Byzantine Catholics are in ministrator of Sts. Cyril and Metho- full communion with Pope Francis dius. Father Boghossian was also in Rome, but follow a Byzantine li- named pastor of St. Basil the Great turgical, spiritual and canonical tra- Parish in North Miami. The Epar- dition that stems to the churches of chy of Passaic covers much of the Bishop Kurt Burnette, center, of the Eparchy of Passaic, N.J., presided at a Mass and 25th anniversary the East. For the past year, Sts. Cyril East Coast of the United States and celebration Nov. 29 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church in Fort Pierce. Also pictured are and Methodius has been without a consists of 93 parishes in 11 states. n Right Rev. Archimandrite Glen Pothier, left, adjuant judical vicar of the Diocese of Palm Beach, and Father resident priest, and during this time Scott Boghossian, right, new parochial administrator of Sts. Cyril and Methodius. (COURTESY PHOTO) 3 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Close encounters of the pope kind

Ouida Williams and Pope Paul linda Reeves VI greets of the Florida Catholic staff the crowd as he visits New York PORT ST. LUCIE | Ben Inserra, City in 75, a parishioner of St. Elizabeth 1965. Ben Ann Seton in Port St. Lucie, never Inserra figured he would get close to a pope. saw him But over his lifetime, he has crossed during that paths with five leaders of the Catho- trip. (FC lic Church, two of whom were re- ArChIVES) cently named as saints. Since 1963, Inserra, a retired civil engineer, has experienced com- ing close to Pope John XXIII, now a saint, Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, now a saint, Pope Benedict and Pope Francis. During each of the five close encounters, he received a Ben Inserra, a parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton in Port St. Lucie, papal blessing. shares his story about encountering five popes during his lifetime “Why did I get a shot at five popes? and receiving blessings along the way. (OUIDA D. WILLIAMS | FC) That’s pretty unusual,” Inserra said. His first encounter was with Pope John XXIII in 1963. He was a get a glimpse of him. There wasn’t a 23-year-old lieutenant visiting St. lot of security then,” he said. “I got Peter’s Basilica. there just as the motorcade pulled “Suddenly everyone stood up, up, and he started blessing people. and I heard singing from a group of He blessed me and (my son) Paul.” nuns. (The pope) was brought in on Inserra’s next golden moment St. Peter’s chair. The people started came during one of Pope John Paul cheering and shouting. I never II’s trips to America. The Holy Father dreamed I’d see such a hierarchy in stopped over in New York and vis- the Church. ited several sites, including Yankee “He passed about 10 feet from Stadium. where I stood and blessed me. I was “Among millions of Catholics in Pope John Paul II waves to the crowd in Yankee Stadium in New in awe. I cried,” said Inserra. New York, I got another chance,” Pope John XXIII is pictured in the York where Ben Inserra saw him. (ChrIS ShErIDAN, CAthOLIC NEW The encounter happened shortly Inserra said. “I was in the Knights Vatican Gardens in this undated YOrk | CNS) before John XXIII died June 3, 1963. of Columbus at the time. They were photo. Ben Inserra saw him in 1963 He was canonized in 2014. giving away a few passes. I luckily at St. Peter’s Basilica. (CAthOLIC Two years later, Inserra en- got one of them. I was sitting in the PrESS PhOtO | CNS) countered his next blessing from a stands when the pope passed by. He pope, Paul VI, who led the Catholic reached out his hands and blessed four times, and suffered severe Church starting June 21, 1963, until me. It was very emotional.” blood loss. Agca was apprehended his death in 1978. Inserra was mar- The pope’s visit to America came immediately, and later sentenced ried and living in New York City in just before an attempt was made on to life in prison by an Italian court. 1965. his life. On May 13, 1981, Mehmet The pope later forgave him and he “I heard (the pope) was coming Ali Agca attempted to assassinate was pardoned at the pope’s request (into the city). I went to see if I could the Holy Father. The pope was shot and was deported to Turkey in June 2000. “I loved Pope John Paul II,” Inser- ra said. “He came off as a priest who cared about his flock. When I heard Clergymen assist Pope Benedict Pope Francis delivers his homily he went to the prison to forgive the XVI as he lights a candle at during the World Meeting of man who tried to assassinate him, ground zero in 2008. Ben Inserra Families in Philadelphia Sept. that affected me. He really modeled saw him in 2008 in New York City. 27. Ben Inserra saw him during his the image of Christ.” (ALESSIA GIULIANI, CAthOLIC visit. (LISA JOhNStON, St. LouiS Inserra’s next pope encounter PrESS PhOtO | CNS) Review | CNS) was in 2008. “Pope Benedict XVI was coming to New York, but I was through the crowd and blessed me. my elderly mother, but it wasn’t. My living in Florida and lost all con- I had a list of prayers in my hand and oldest son Paul sounded very upset. nections back home,” Inserra said. I cried.” ‘Peter is dead,’ he said.” Inserra’s “Surprisingly, my next-door neigh- Over the years, Inserra said, he middle son had suddenly died of a bor in Florida just happened to have has thought about the great inci- heart attack in his sleep at only 35 a ticket (to the papal event) and gen- dents with the good popes and the years of age. Most recently, he lost erously gave it to me. There I saw spiritual doses of blessings he re- his youngest son, Mark, to cancer. Pope Benedict and received another ceived from the successors of Peter. A papal blessing is special. In- blessing.” He believes that the blessings have serra believes that the five he has Inserra’s most recent encounter helped him in some way along life’s received are very special and gifts was this year. “At my ripe old age, journey and through troubled times from God. He is now grieving his I got the chance to see Pope Fran- in his life, including the death of two youngest son’s death and turning to cis in Philadelphia this past Sep- sons. God for strength. tember. I was there visiting with a “It was three days after 9/11 and “I am sad, but I can deal with it,” friend when he came to town,” he the fall of the towers,” he said about he said. He said he continues to give said about the Holy Father’s visit to the 2001 terrorist attacks in New God thanks for his long life and for 33891-0108 America. “I walked miles to catch a York. More than 3,000 people died his son, Paul, who was with him in sight of him. Suddenly he wheeled in New York City. “I was in New York New York when he saw Pope Paul VI, by in an open jeep. He passed and got a call. I assumed it was about and who blessed both of them. n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 4 Mother Teresa in the New Year A new year has begun and many that we too sometimes experience indifferent! God cares about man- BISHOP’S things will be before us. One of in our lives to a lesser degree. How- kind! God does not abandon us! them will be the canonization of ever, this cross became a source of At the beginning of the New Year, SCHEDULE Mother Teresa of Calcutta as a saint grace for them as they realized that I would like to share not only this of the Church. Truly the announce- the cross of the Lord was present to profound conviction but also my Jan. 8 — Closing of retreat ment of her canonization, due to them in this experience. cordial good wishes for prosper- of bishops of U.S. Regions IV and Florida the affirmation of another miracle Mother Teresa was fond of say- ity, peace and the fulfillment of the XIV, Lutz. performed through her, is very wel- ing, “God does not demand that I be hopes of every man and every wom- Jan. 9 — 5 p.m., Mass/instal- Catholic come news. Mother Teresa stands successful. God demands that I be an, every family, people and nation lation of Father John Horan as DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH as a great woman who made a tre- faithful. When facing God, results throughout the world, including the pastor of St. Jude Parish, Boca mendous difference in our times. are non-important. Faithfulness is heads of state and government and Raton. Vol. 77, No. 5 She was a great proponent what is important.” What all religious leaders.” Truly, it is only Jan. 10 — 11:30 a.m., Mass/ for the poor and needy in wonderful words to reflect by recognizing that God is not indif- installation of Father Stephen 9995 North Military Trail an extraordinary fashion, upon as we begin a new ferent but that he cares for us that Leake as pastor of St. Philip Benizi Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 which caught the attention year and as we continue enables us to recognize the value of Parish, Belle Glade. 561-775-9500 • Fax 561-630-2698 of many in the world and to journey during this Ju- our lives not in terms of success, but Jan. 12 — 11 a.m., Meeting, PUBLISHER in government leadership. bilee of Mercy. God is not in terms of faithfulness. Southern Deanery priests, St. Joan Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito She was also a tremendous interested in our success- Mother Teresa never expected to of Arc Parish, Boca Raton; 7 p.m., proponent for the unborn es but in our being faithful be the example and spiritual leader RCIA presentation, “The Eucha- DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS rist,” Cathedral of St. Ignatius Dianne Laubert and proclaimed the sanc- LIVING THE to him. Our faithfulness that she was to the world. However, tity of life on behalf of the Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens. [email protected] TRUTH IN to the Lord is the indica- her faithfulness to the plan of God unborn as well as that of tion of our willingness to for her is what made her who she Jan. 13 — 6:30 p.m., Dinner, LOVE DIOCESAN EDITOR every person at every stage enter into a real relation- was and enabled her to accomplish 2016 Diocesan Services Appeal, Linda Reeves of life. Gerald ship with him in which the good that she did. Her found- Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola. [email protected] As we continue to re- Barbarito we realize our faults and ing of the Missionaries of Charity is Jan. 15 — noon, Luncheon 561-775-9528 flect upon God’s infi- limitations, but are not a great blessing for the world. This with Diocesan Services Appeal nite mercy during this discouraged by them. Our congregation carries out in a con- donors, Mizner Country Club, Boca • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, faithfulness enables us to know the crete manner the concern and mer- Raton. Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, Mother Teresa stands as a profound deep love of God for us by experi- cy that Mother Teresa gave to the Jan. 16 — 1 p.m., Confirma- or customerservice@theflorida example of a woman of mercy. She encing his mercy and forgiveness. poor, the needy, the abandoned, the tion, Holy Family Parish, Port St. catholic.org Lucie. was a woman of great joy and her Mother Teresa experienced this elderly and the unborn. All of these Notify us of address changes (temporary joy flowed from her giving of herself faithfulness especially in her suffer- would certainly seem to have not Jan. 17 — 10:30 a.m., Red or permanent) as soon as possible. Please to others, especially the needy and ings of the dark night of the soul that experienced success in their lives. Mass/breakfast, Catholic Lawyers change your address online at www. the poor. St. John Paul II, who was she experienced which may, at face Nevertheless they were successful Guild, Cathedral of St. Ignatius thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at a great advocate of Mother Teresa, value, seem a lack of success. as Mother Teresa helped them to Loyola. 1-888-275-9953. formally announced her beatifica- As we begin a new year, espe- realize God’s faithfulness to them Jan. 19 — 10 a.m., Meeting, tion shortly after her death. She was cially during this Jubilee of Mercy, and encouraged their faithfulness Presbyteral Council, Pastoral Cen- • ADVERTISING: Contact Jane Radetsky at 407-373-0075 or a great influence in his pontificate Mother Teresa’s words stand before to God. ter, Palm Beach Gardens; 1 p.m., [email protected] and he eagerly promoted her mis- us as a wonderful reminder of what It was a great joy to learn of the Meeting, College of Consultors, • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock sion in the world. the road to holiness is all about. In a upcoming canonization of Mother Pastoral Center. at 1-888-275-9953, or While Mother Teresa was a world so caught up in success, it is Teresa during this year. Mother Jan. 20 — noon, Luncheon [email protected] woman who exuded great joy and a reassuring to know that success and Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity with Diocesan Services Appeal loving smile to all she encountered, achievement are not what life is all are present and active in the Arch- donors, Floridian Golf Club, Palm State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite City. G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; she was no stranger to suffering about. Many of us have undertaken diocese of Miami immediately next Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; and pain in her life. Naturally, part New Year’s resolutions to change door to us. I was very privileged to Jan. 21 — noon, Luncheon Toll-free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 of her suffering was due to the life of certain aspects of our lives for the know the Missionaries of Charity as with Diocesan Services Appeal extreme poverty that she so eagerly coming year. This is a wonderful they had several homes in Brook- donors, Lost Tree Club, North Palm EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: lived. However, this suffering was practice but usually we find we are lyn, N.Y., where I was privileged to Beach. General Manager: Ann Borowski Slade not one that brought her distress or not often faithful to these resolu- visit them and to celebrate Mass for Jan. 22 — 11 a.m., Prayer vigil Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Business Manager: Pat Spencer discomfort. It was surprisingly one tions. Many of us may already be them. I was also privileged to meet for Roe v. Wade decision, Palm Advertising Sales Manager: that brought her great peace. experiencing that we have not been Mother Teresa who exuded a great Beach County Courthouse, West Jane Radetsky However, another suffering successful in what we intended to peace to me as she did to everyone Palm Beach. Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro she faced was one encountered carry out. These failures at our reso- she met. Jan. 23 — 4:30 p.m., Mass/ Social Media/Community Specialist: by many of the great saints of the lutions are a good example of realiz- One of the most humorous but reception in honor of married love Michael Carlock Church, which was a feeling of dis- ing our limitations in our humanity. profound stories I know about the and the gift of life, Cathedral of St. Advertising Graphic Designer: Ignatius Loyola. Michael Jimenez tance from God. After her death, They are also a good opportunity to Missionaries of Charity occurred Advertising Assistant: Valerie Casko her writings on this suffering were realize that God always goes be- in one of their homes in Brooklyn Jan. 24 — 2:30 p.m., Con- published. It is surprising to read yond our limitations. We just cel- where a generous priest brought firmation, St. Helen Parish, Vero Have a comment/want more info/ how this joyful woman faced the ebrated that he became one of us them a brand-new statue of Our Beach. have a story suggestion? Leave your pain of feeling an absence from God in our human nature and raises us Lady for their monastery. The sis- feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; that caused her the greatest suffer- to his divinity through his love and ters, very much taken with the click reader feedback button on left of ing in her life. Such great saints as mercy. Again, it is our faithfulness beauty of the statue, would not ac- screen. St. John of the Cross, St. Paul of the and willingness to persevere that cept it because they said it was too statue since it was no longer per- Send statewide news releases to Cross and St. Teresa of Lisieux were are important and not our success- new and perfect. They preferred fect. The sisters accepted it and the [email protected] but some of the saints who faced es, especially in the eyes of God. a statue that was imperfect as that moral of the story for me is that God this emptiness which was similar Every year for the New Year the was in more keeping with Mother truly does not expect us to be per- Our staff meets for prayer each work day at to what Our Lord experienced on pope puts forth a message of peace. Teresa’s way of life. The wise priest fect, but to be faithful in striving for 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ the cross. This experience is often This year the message of Pope agreed and took the statue outside perfection even in our brokenness. thefloridacatholic.org referred to as the “dark night of Francis emphasizes that it is only where he hit it against a tree to bring May this New Year be a time for All contents copyright © 2016, The Florida the soul.” It is comforting for us to by overcoming indifference that we some damage to it. He then brought all to know more deeply the love of Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from know that Mother Teresa and the are able to achieve peace. He begins it back to the sisters and proclaimed God in our lives and in our imper- Catholic News Service. saints experienced this emptiness his message by saying, “God is not that they could now accept the fections. A blessed New Year to all! n

The Florida Catholic (ISSN 0746-4584) publishes semi-monthly for the Dioceses of Or- per’s policy and standards in Catholic Press Association. The appearance of advertising in all media. Political advertising not accepted. Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, lando, Palm Beach and Venice for $24 per year in Florida, $30 per year in the U.S., and in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services and products. Com- FL 32862 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The $95 per year foreign, by The Florida Catholic Inc., 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, plaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or to your local Florida Catholic, P.O. Box 4993, Orlando, FL 32802-4993. Member, Catholic Press As- FL 32801-1619. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertisements contrary to pa- Better Business Bureau. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising sociation; subscriber to Catholic News Service (CNS). 5 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Parishioners create mosiac for their church COVINGTON CAMPBELL and LINDA REEVES of the Florida Catholic staff

JUPITER | The construction of a large mosaic at St. Peter Parish involving pa- rishioners and staff and hours upon hours over the months is about more than the bonding of small stained-glass pieces and stone. “Small groups have the capacity to form relationships which are so important,” said Susan Bridgforth, director of parish stewardship. She is leading volunteers who are working side by side in an effort to create the St. Peter mosaic. At the same time, they are also sharing in fellowship and building up the community spirit of the parish. “We help one another build bridges and to bear crosses,” she said about friend- ships made as part of parishioner partici- pation. Nearly 25 volunteers have spent time on the 5-foot-by-40-foot mosaic titled “Living Waters in the River of Life.” It will grace the floor in the front of the church near the baptismal font and new stained-glass window. A generous parishioner is fund- ing the project. The mosaic is being created in a Jupiter studio near the parish grounds, and half- inch-by-half-inch pieces of stained glass and stone are being used to create the piece which illustrates waves and swirls of blues, greens and natural tones moving together and transporting fish that ride the currents up and down in the depths of the water. The art is a wonderful represen- Left and above, Susan Bridgforth, director of stewardship tation of the river of life or the journeys of at St. Peter Parish in Jupiter, is leading the work on a men and women on life paths. mosaic project at her parish. The piece is expected to Bridgforth, a muralist for the past 25 be completed and installed in the church this month. years, designed the piece and she is teach- (PHOTOS BY COVINGTON CAMPBELL | FC) ing volunteers the art of glass cutting and mosaic design. Large tiles are scored, cut and shaped, and sharp glass edges are filed to a smooth finish. Tens of thousands of tiny tiles will be glued together to finish the mosaic art piece. It will be a centerpiece for the church where families come together as a community for the important moment of the sacrament of baptism, and where the parish family enters the church into com- munion with others to pray and worship in faith. “When I have gone to work on it, it is redundant work, but you are sitting there knowing you are working on this beauti- ful project that will grace the church,” said longtime parishioner Giovanna Christian, who is part of the St. Peter staff. She volun- Above, a mosaic teers time to help with the project. “Your comes together mind becomes reflective, meditative and piece by piece following designs calmed. The work becomes a gift to God, created by Susan to the parish. It is an unusual way for our Bridgforth. Left, in parishioners to become involved, and it is a studio, stained wonderful that so many have added their glass and stone in time and energy (to help create the piece).” shades of blue fill Bridgforth hopes the mosaic will be containers to be completed sometime in January. The used on a mosaic painstaking work is a monumental project. project initiated She said that the help of volunteers over the by St. Peter Parish. months who are dedicated to giving back to the Church is a blessing. “Stewardship is about giving back in praise and worship of Our Lord for the many gifts he has given us. To those who have been given much, Small pieces of stained glass are filed and glued to form shapes as much will be asked of them,” she said. n part of a project at St. Peter Parish involving parishioners and staff. Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 6 2015: New beginnings, exciting milestones, memorable moments

From Pope Francis’ historic trip to the United the first American chapter of the Grandpar- States to the launch of the Jubilee Year of Mer- ents Association was launched. Conferences cy, Catholics of the Diocese of Palm Beach cel- fed women, men and youths with inspiring ebrated memorable moments of faith. During moments while the diocese celebrated events the Year of the Consecrated Life, the diocese that continued to faithfully build up the city of celebrated the works of dedicated religious sis- God. Here are just a few moments captured in ters, brothers and priests. This past summer, photos of life on Florida’s Gold Coast.

Salesian Brother Salvatore Sammarco, left, and day laborer Hector Rojas, an immigrant from Mexico, assemble a chair Aug. 6 that was constructed in Port Chester, N.Y., for use by Pope Francis. Brother Sammarco, who serves St. Philip Benizi Parish in Belle Glade, was selected to lead construction of the chair Pope Francis used when he celebrated Mass at Madison Square Garden in New York Sept. 25. Pope John Paul II High School graduates process in caps and gowns moments before commencement (Gregory A. Shemitz | CNS) ceremonies May 16 at Lynn University. The three high schools of the Diocese of Palm Beach graduated a combined 324 students in 2015. All events were something to remember with happy graduates about to venture off on new life paths, witnessed by school staff, friends and family members. (LINDA REEVES | FC)

Deacon Wayne Topper, left, of St. Clare Parish in North Palm Beach congratulates new Deacon Jose Guardiario moments after he was ordained. Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito ordained four men to the permanent diaconate Sept. 12. (LINDA REEVES | FC)

Father Michael O’Flaherty, pastor of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Boca Raton, leads a mortgage- burning ceremony Oct. 25 during the 11 a.m. Mass. He burned a copy of the mortgage as the parish marked a five-year anniversary since the church was dedicated. (LINDA St. Edward Church shines with new renovations that were completed to repair structural damages. REEVES | FC) Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito was main celebrant for a special Mass with dedication, consecration and blessing ceremonies Jan. 25. (LINDA REEVES | FC) 7 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Conference aimed to inspire families Ouida Williams Florida Catholic correspondent in Philadelphia this past September ‘We hope that through the event, more and more FYI at the World Meeting of Families “Family Fully Alive in Christ”: WEST PALM BEACH | Catholic Congress. families will become closer to Christ. It will be Feb. 20, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Palm Beach Men for Jesus, a ministry aimed at “He addressed the United States a celebration of Catholic life. We will gather in County Convention Center, 650 helping men grow in faith, will pres- saying families are a factory of large numbers under one roof, celebrating that we Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach. ent a fresh, new conference next hope,” Manhardt said. “We think Tickets: $10 per person or $25 per month. the event will be a powerful day; the Catholics, as a giant family, are fully alive in Christ.' family. Christian concert begins 7 The Feb. 20 event in downtown largest gathering in our diocese.” p.m. Tickets: $25. Hispanic celebra- West Palm Beach is called “Family The all-day event will feature a — Jim Manhardt tion, led by Juan Alberto Echeverry, Fully Alive in Christ,” and accord- variety of activities and present- begins 7 p.m. Tickets: $10. To buy ing to organizers seeks to do just ers for parents, teens and younger tickets, visit www.catholicmenforje- what the title says — inspire, moti- children. The conference will take 2,000 individuals. At the same time, the University of Notre Dame and a suschristofflorida.org. For informa- vate, and encourage family life ac- place at the Palm Beach Conven- the smaller children will convene in master’s in theological studies from tion, email [email protected]. cording to God’s purpose. tion Center in West Palm Beach. an area where they will take part in the University of Dallas. The dea- Jim Manhardt, founder of Catho- The program will be broken down activities tailored for their ages spe- con is an author and sought-after lic Men for Jesus which has present- for various age groups. In the morn- cifically. speaker and host of a weekly broad- the entire family getting together ed spiritual conferences for men in ing, the adults will gather in a loca- Lila Rose, president of Live Ac- cast, “From the Rooftops,” on Radio for this event is a nice idea.” the diocese over the past decade, tion that holds 6,000 people. The tion, a nonprofit dedicated to end- Maria. He is host of several popular The daytime event will close with said the new event for families is in- young people will meet in a sepa- ing abortion and building a culture series on Eternal Word Television Mass with Bishop Gerald M. Bar- spired by Pope Francis, who spoke rate area that is designed to hold of life, is a featured speaker for the Network, including “Behold the barito serving as main celebrant. conference. She will speak to both Man: Spirituality for Men.” He is Two separate nighttime events are adults and youths. married with four children. planned: a Christian concert and a A graduate of the University of For the young people, world- Hispanic celebration. Author and California, Los Angeles, the 27-year- class juggler Paul Ponce, who has speaker Juan Alberto Echeverry old has been a pro-life advocate performed on “America’s Got Tal- hosts the Hispanic event. Tickets since she was a young teen. She is a ent,” will take the stage for his danc- for nighttime activities must be regular guest on national television ing and never-before-seen juggling purchased separately. and radio programs, and her work and talents. He is sure to leave the “We hope that through the event, has been featured in many national children awestruck. more and more families will be-

34189-0108 publications. “It’s a great idea,” said Fred Topor come closer to Christ,” Manhardt The conference’s lineup also in- of the Cathedral of St. Ignatius said. “It will be a celebration of cludes a presentation by Deacon Loyola about the family event, a Catholic life. We will gather in large Harold Burke-Sivers, known by first of its kind here in the Diocese numbers under one roof, celebrat- many as the “Dynamic Deacon.” of Palm Beach. “I have children and ing that we Catholics, as a giant He earned a bachelor’s degree from grandchildren myself. The idea of family, are fully alive in Christ.” n What do you prefer for your renewal?

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West Palm Beach. Led by Respect Trail, P.O. Box 109650, Palm Beach DIOCESAN EVENTS Life Office. 561-360-3330. TV MASS FYI Gardens, FL 33410. Divorce survival ministry • Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala: Jan. Sunday televised Mass airs 9 a.m. To find more information on events, Catholic radio stations are program: Parishes in the 28, 6:30 p.m., The Breakers Hotel, 1 on CW34 WTVX. Produced by the please visit www.diocesepb.org/ available through the radio, Diocese of Palm Beach. 12-week S. County Road, Palm Beach. Black- diocesan Office of Communications. events or www.catholiccharitiesdpb. the Internet and application program features 30-minute tie gala to benefit the programs Questions: www.diocesepb.org/tv- org/events. downloads: WPBV FM (98.3 FM, DVD segments on challenges of a and ministries of Catholic Charities Mass or 561-775-9529. To support www.wpbvradio.com); WJPP broken marriage. For the recently that provide services to the (100.1 FM, www.wjppfm.com); poor and vulnerable. Tickets the televised Mass or to request a and WDMC (920 AM, www. separated and divorced and free Mass missal: 561-775-9529 or • Day of reflection: Feb. 3, 10 those divorced for many years. and sponsorship opportunities: divinemercyradio.com). 561-775-9560, jhoffman@ Office of Communications, 9995 N. a.m. “Removing the plank from Pro-life radio talk show: Sponsored by Office of Marriage our eyes.” Presenter: Deacon Bob and Family Life. Registration catholiccharitiesdpb.org. Military Trail, P.O. Box 109650, Palm Mondays, 2 p.m.; and Saturdays, • Rosary prayer gathering: Beach Gardens, FL 33410. Rodriguez. Cost: $30. Reservations 11 a.m., Catholic radio station suggested; space limited. 561- required. 632-2689 or 561-818-4728. For Jan. 22, 11 a.m., 1916 County WJPP FM (Prince of Peace 100.1 program information and Courthouse, 300 N. Dixie Highway, FM). “CrossRoads” is a one-hour locations, 561-775-9557. West Palm Beach. Prayer led by Stations of the Cross to pray program featuring commentary, for priests of the diocese: Jan. ANNOUNCEMENTS 2015-2016 School of Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito for news, features and guests from 30, 8:30 a.m., Cathedral of St. Christian Formation classes: the protection of the unborn the local area and from across the Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Military Catholic Days at the Capitol: Classes and programs offered in on the 43rd anniversary of Roe nation. Hosted by Anne Lotierzo Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. 561- Feb. 16-18, Tallahassee. Florida English and Spanish. New classes v. Wade, the Supreme Court and Duane Berreth, directors of 622-2565. Catholics are invited to meet state begin the week of Jan. 11. To decision that legalized abortion. the Pregnancy Care Center in Fort Sponsored by Respect Life Office. Pro-life ministry benefit: legislators to promote legislation Pierce and Stuart. Listeners may learn more about locations and that supports teachings of the schedules, visit www.diocesepb. Free bus transportation from Feb. 8, PGA Country Club and tune in online at www.wjppfm. various locations. Riders are Resort, Palm Beach Gardens. Guest Church. Highlight: Red Mass com. org/schools-of-christian-formation concelebrated by the Florida or call 561-775-9544. encouraged to bring lunch and speaker: Jim Sedlak, founder Women of Grace ministry drink. For details, map and parking of Stop Planned Parenthood bishops. Cost: $170 per person, Church annulment program is seeking volunteers instructions: 561-360-3330, www. International (STOPP). Proceeds includes transportation and informational night: Jan. 19, to facilitate study programs for catholiccharitiesdpb.org/events. benefit God’s Resources, a pro-life hotel. Deadline: Feb. 2. 772-342- 7:15 p.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius English-speakers and also for ministry dedicated to providing 0837, bmckinley@diocesepb. Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm • Catholic Days at the Capitol: Spanish-speakers. Training sessions free pregnancy tests, counseling org, 561-360-3330, dkazimir@ Beach Gardens. Led by Father Feb. 16-18, State Capitol, 400 S. are held at St. Joan of Arc Parish and ultrasounds by trained nurses catholiccharitiesdpb.org. Albert Dello Russo, judge in the Monroe St., Tallahassee. Gathering ministry buildings, 319 S.W. Third working from mobile facilities at Family conference: Feb. 20, diocesan Tribunal Office. Clear and of Catholics from around the Street, Boca Raton. Registration: state and Florida’s bishops to various locations. 772-919-2555. Palm Beach County Convention Martha Nicolli, 561 212 8673 or accurate information provided. Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd., 561-775-9557. advocate for laws that protect and Ladies Guild trip, March 8-10, [email protected]. defend human life and dignity. Emmanuel Parish, 15700 S. Military West Palm Beach. “Family Fully Diocesan Mass to honor Parish nurse meetings: Transportation available, but Trail, Delray Beach. Transportation Alive in Christ,” presented by married love and the gift of Open to all registered nurses space is limited. Deadline: Feb. to Orlando Holy Land exhibit Catholic Men for Jesus Christ life: Jan. 23, 4:30 p.m., Cathedral interested in health ministry. 2. 561-775-9598, 772-342-0837, with visits to Morse Museum of Florida. Guest speakers: Lila of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. For dates, time and locations, or [email protected] in Winter Park that features an Rose and Deacon Harold Burke- Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. call Catholic Charities, Interfaith or 561-360-3330 or dkazimir@ extensive collection of Tiffany Sivers. Performances by juggling Vigil Mass celebrated by Bishop Health and Wellness, 561-345- catholiccharitiesdpb.org. Learn pieces, and stop at Bok Tower entertainer Paul Ponce. Ike Gerald M. Barbarito, includes 2000, ext. 256; or email wellness@ more at www.flaccb.org/catholic- Gardens. Cost: $265, includes Ndolo and his band will perform blessing of babies in the womb. catholiccharitiesdpb.org. days-at-the-capitol. transportation, double-occupancy for youths. Conference ends Sponsored by the diocesan Office Charitable giving guidelines: hotel accommodations, meals and shortly before 4 p.m. with Mass of Marriage and Family Life. Light The bishops of Florida have entrance fees to sites. 561-496- celebrated by Bishop Gerald reception follows. 561-775-9557 or developed charitable giving 2213. M. Barbarito. Cost: $10 per [email protected]. COMMUNITY person; $25 per family. www. guidelines of appropriate and Prayer gathering: Fridays, Permanent deacon catholicmenforjesuschristofflorida. inappropriate organizations/ EVENTS 9:45 a.m., and Tuesdays, 3 p.m., applications available: Men org/. foundations. Please visit www. 8177 Glades Road, Boca Raton. interested in applying to become a Ascension young adults diocesepb.org, click on giving and Pray with others for the end of Women’s spiritual permanent deacon of the Diocese group meeting: Mondays, 7 p.m., then charitable giving guidelines. abortion. 561-347-1636. conference: March 19, 8 a.m., of Palm Beach are asked to speak St. Patrick Parish, 13591 Prosperity Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Protection of Children to their pastors for permission Farms Road, Palm Beach Gardens. Prayer gathering: Fridays, 9999 Military Trail, Palm Beach and Young People: The to apply and download the All young adults are invited and 5 p.m., on the sidewalks near A Gardens. Mass with main celebrant Catholic Diocese of Palm Beach application from the diocesan welcome. 561-626-8626 or nicole@ Woman’s World Medical Center Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, is committed to the safety and website, www.diocesepb.org/ stpatrickchurch.org. that offers abortion services, 503 S. sacrament of reconciliation, rosary, protection of all children and 12th St., Fort Pierce. Treasure Coast deacon-formation. Deadline for Ongoing clergy formation: adoration and talks. Guest speaker: vulnerable adults in its care. rosary group leads rosary recitation next year’s class is Jan. 31. 561-775- Jan. 18-22, St. Vincent de Paul ValLimar Jansen, singer and Victims of abuse are encouraged for the end of abortion. 772-465- 9540 or [email protected]. Regional Seminary, 10701 S. storyteller. Early registration: $30, to contact the diocesan victim 8298. Workshops for extraordinary Military Trail, Boynton Beach. Priest includes continental breakfast and assistance coordinator Theresa ministers of holy Communion: Winter Institute with presenters Pray the rosary for life: lunch. Patti Amann, 561-662-4780; Fretterd, 561-801-0999, to begin For both new and experienced Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Edward Saturdays, 9-10 a.m., sidewalks just Vivian Rogers, 561-799-1975. necessary emotional, psychological ministers. Call parish office to Sri. Topics: Gospel of Luke, new north of the Wellington Regional Sunday televised Mass and spiritual healing. For more make reservations with the evangelization and the Year of Medical Center, 10101 Forest Hill airs 9 a.m. on CW34 WTVX. information on diocesan policies diocesan Liturgy Office. Mercy. Open to all priests. 561-732- Blvd., Wellington. All invited to Produced by the diocesan Office of and procedures for reporting pray for the end of abortions. 561- abuse as well as to view the USCCB • Jan. 23, St. Martin de Porres 4424. Communications. Questions: www. 784-0689. “Charter for the Protection of Parish, 2555 N.E. Savanna Road, Benefit dinner and concert: diocesepb.org/tv-Mass or 561-775- Children and Young People,” visit Jensen Beach. Jan. 22, 6-9 p.m., Ascension Parish, 9529. To support the televised www.diocesepb.org and click on 7250 N. Federal Highway, Boca Mass or to request a free Mass • Feb. 20, St. Patrick Parish, Offices/Safe Environments. 13591 Prosperity Farms Road, Palm Raton. St. Mark Parish choir will RETREATS/DAYS missal: 561-775-9529 or Office of Beach Gardens. perform “Les Miserables.” Cost: OF PRAYER Communications, 9995 N. Military Diocesan Wedding $40 per person. 561- 244-7627, Anniversary Masses: Feb. 13, 561-752-2988. Our Lady of Florida Spiritual 10:30 a.m., Holy Spirit Parish, 1000 St. Vincent Ferrer jubilee Center: Retreats and programs W. Lantana Road, Lantana; and gala: Jan. 23, 6:30 p.m., Delray available for clergy, religious, men, Feb. 27, 10:30, St. Lucie Parish, Beach Marriott, 101 N. Ocean women, married couples, singles 280 S.W. Prima Vista Blvd., Port Blvd., Delray Beach. Celebration and people in recovery programs. 2016 Jubilee Year St. Lucie. Anniversary Masses of 60th anniversary of St. Vincent Season theme: “Be Merciful celebrate marriage and honor Ferrer School and 75th anniversary as Your Father.” Reservations married couples celebrating 25, of the parish. 561-276-6892. required except when stated. 40, 50 and more years. Main “Sensational 60s” dinner Location: 1300 U.S. Highway 1, Pilgrimage to Italy celebrant: Bishop Gerald M. dance: Jan. 23, 6 p.m., American North Palm Beach. 561-626-1300 or Hosted by Father Brian Campbell Barbarito. Reception with cake Polish Club, 4725 Lake Worth www.ourladyofflorida.org: follows. Contact your parish or the Road, Greenacres. Hosted by • Centering prayer: and Nawas International Travel diocesan Office of Family Life and St. Thérèse de Lisieux Council Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m., main Marriage: 561-775-9557, cloh@ of Catholic Women. Tickets: chapel. diocesepb.org. $35 per person, includes dinner, • Day of reflection: Jan. 6, November 9-19, 2016 Catholic Charities: dancing and raffles. 561-352-9991, 10 a.m. “God’s Chosen Ones.” [email protected]. For calendar of events visit Presenter: Passionist Father Rome • Assisi • Florence • Pompeii 35050-0108 www.catholiccharitiesdpb.org/ Academic evening: Jan. 25, Damian Towey. Cost: $30. events. 7:30 p.m., St. Vincent de Paul Reservations required. • Amalfi Coast • Monte Cassino • Rosary gathering: First Regional Seminary, 10701 S. • Centering prayer silent Saturdays, 9 a.m., near Presidential Military Trail, Boynton Beach. weekend retreat: Jan. 8-10. Cost: Contact: Father Campbell @ 561-798-5661 Women’s Center in West Palm Guest speaker: Cardinal Sean TBA. Registration: 407-869-0781 or Email for brochure: [email protected] Beach, 100 Northpoint Parkway, O’Malley. Open to the public. 561- [email protected]. 732-4424. www.thefloridacatholic.org | Jan. 8-21, 2016 FLORIDACatholic VENICE DIOCESE Two ordained to the transitional diaconate Bob Reddy of the Florida Catholic staff

VENICE | Grzegorz Klich and Charles G. Ruoff claim there is nothing special about them except that they have a desire to serve the Lord and are currently pursuing a voca- tion to the priesthood, a lifelong dream for both. The two seminarians for the Diocese of Venice took a major step closer in that pur- suit when they were both ordained to the Transitional Diaconate Dec. 19 at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. Bishop Frank J. De- wane presiding over the ordination, in- formed both men that ordination makes them ministers of the Word, Altar and Charity. “Be a servant of all. … You come here freely and you have worked hard to put yourself in this particular place, making a commitment to be of service to the Lord and those around you.” Deacons Klich and Ruoff have chosen to live their life in a particular way, Bishop De- wane continued. “Live this life you have cho- sen to the fullest. … Take comfort in prayer which should become the center of your daily life.” Following the ordination Deacon Klich explained that he was having trouble putting into words the powerful emotions he was feel- ing. “This is such an important moment that I have been praying about for a long time,” he Top left, Bishop Frank J. Dewane lays his hands on the head of Grzegorz Klich during his ordination to the transitional diaconate said. “To be one step closer toward a priestly Dec. 19 at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. Top right, Charles G. Ruoff is presented the Book of Gopels by Bishop Dewane. Bottom ordination is so special. I will take this time to right, Deacons Klich and Ruoff lay prostrate during the Litany of Saints. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) prepare for that next important step.” Deacon Ruoff expressed a feeling of being ‘How wonderful a blessed at being considered worthy of ordina- tion by Bishop Dewane and to have family transformation, how mysterious and friends present to show their support at a design, how inconceivable a that important moment. “How wonderful a transformation, how blessing. Today is a privileged mysterious a design, how inconceivable a gift from Our Lord as we near blessing,” the new Transitional Deacon add- ed. “Today is a privileged gift from Our Lord Christmas; His gift of kindness, as we near Christmas; His gift of kindness, His gift of grace.’ His gift of grace.” The first of three ranks of ordained min- istry in the Church, deacons perform many — Deacon Charles Ruoff services in the Church in conjunction with the ministries of priests and of the bishop. In posed his hands on them and proclaimed parish life, deacons may preside at baptisms, a prayer of consecration, to confer the Holy weddings and rites of Christian burial, assist Spirit to guide their ministries. the priest at Mass, proclaim the Gospel and The deacons then received a stole and dal- deliver homilies. matic (the exterior garb of a deacon), signify- Deacons are called to be flexible, adaptable ing the office of diaconate and the deacon’s Newly ordained Transitional Deacons Grzegorz Klich, left, and Charles G. Ruoff, right, and creative in their service, learning new role in the celebration of the Eucharist. Father stand with Bishop Frank J. Dewane following their ordination Dec. 19. languages and cultures, and going to places Anthony Hewitt, Administrator of St. Francis — from a prison to a hospital to a food pantry Xavier Parish in Fort Myers, helped Deacon Deacon Klich, 33, is from Harklowa, Po- assignments have included St. Andrew Par- to a bus station — that others might shun. Klich vest, while Father Richard York, Pastor land, and has completed his studies at Ss. ish in Cape Coral, Resurrection Parish in Fort Following the homily, Deacons Klich and of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grove City, as- Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Myers, St. Agnes Parish in Naples and St. Mi- Ruoff approached Bishop Dewane individu- sisted Deacon Ruoff. Lake, Mich. He is currently on pastoral as- chael the Archangel Parish in Sarasota. ally, knelt before him and promised respect Next, the newly ordained deacons knelt signment at St. Francis Xavier Parish. He pre- Ordained for the service of charity and and obedience to the Bishop and his succes- before the Bishop who presented them with viously served as a seminarian at St. William Proclamation of the Word, Transitional sors. To signify humble submission before the Book of the Gospels as a symbol of their Parish in Naples, and Our Lady of Lourdes Deacons continue the ministry of Christ the God, the men then lay prostrate in the sanc- new ministry of proclaiming the Gospel and Parish in Venice. Servant. As part of their formation for priest- tuary while the assembly sang the Litany of preaching. The Rite of Ordination concluded Deacon Ruoff, 58, was born in Philadelphia hood, all candidates must first be ordained to Saints. with the kiss of peace before they were minis- and grew up on the New Jersey Shore. He is the Diaconate. Deacon Klich will remain at St. The ordinations were complete after each ters of the Eucharist for the first time as dea- in his final year at St. John XXIII National Francis Xavier while Deacon Ruoff will return man again approached the Bishop who im- cons. Seminary in Weston, Mass. His seminarian to the seminary to complete his studies. n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 2 New pro-life TV show begins airing locally

Bob Reddy of the Florida Catholic staff

PUNTA GORDA | Got plans for Tuesday nights? Consider a new pro-life television show which began airing Jan. 5, 8:30 p.m., on CTN-10 (Family Television Net- work), a local cable channel. The show is paid for by Action For Life, a nonprofit, nonsectar- ian volunteer organization dedi- cated to protecting and fostering the most basic value of our society — human life itself. The Naples- based group devised a plan to air a series, in a talk-show format, to help better educate the public about the ongoing efforts to pro- mote, uphold, and support respect for human life without regard to age, race, creed, color, whether born or unborn. The show is hosted by Father Michael Orsi, Parochial Vicar of St. Agnes Parish and Chaplain at St. John Neumann Catholic High School, both in Naples. Taped in front of a live studio audience, Jeanne Berdeaux, center, Diocesan Respect Life Director, guests on a new pro-life show, “Action for Life,” that airs Tuesdays, 8:30 p.m., on guests appear to discuss various CTN-10. The host is Father Michael Orsi, right, chaplain at St. John Neumann High School. At left is general manager Paul Lodato. (COURTESY) issues related to the pro-life move- ment. Upcoming airings will in- dying each day right in our own “This is an opportunity to get this — that all life is precious and sa- important mission,” he said. “The clude the Jewish perspective on communities,” he said. “We sup- message out to a broader audi- cred because it is a gift from God.” show will air at a set time, but will life and one dedicated solely to the port a peaceful end to abortion in ence,” she explained. Paul Lodato, the station’s gen- also live stream and air at other 40 Days for Life Campaign which the United States and that end will Shows are taped in advance at eral manager, said that when he times throughout the week, just to begins on Ash Wednesday. only happen when more people are the CTN-10 studios in south Char- was approached about the idea of make sure people see this show.” n With timely and relevant top- educated about this grave issue.” lotte County. Father Orsi hosts the airing the Action For Life series, he ics and interesting guests, this Jeanne Berdeaux, Diocese of show and asks guests questions. was all for it. An ordained minster, For information about where to television show will expose a new Venice Respect Life Director, said “My goal is to keep the topics en- Lodato said the entire network is find CTN-10, visit www.ctn10. audience to this important issue, the television show is a great idea gaging and informative for every- geared toward supporting core com, or on YouTube at action- said John Garafalo, Action For Life in spreading the word. Berdeaux one, no matter what faith they may Christian values, with life being forlife.net. For more information treasurer. “We needed a new way was a guest on the taping about 40 have,” Father Orsi said. “We are the most important one. about Action For Life, visit www. to get the word out that abortions Days for Life, as she is the regional here to share an important mes- “It’s truly an honor that we were actionforlife.net or call 239-262- are taking place and babies are coordinator for that prayer vigil. sage that can be found in the Bible asked to be the host station for this 5433. Father Zalewski installed as pastor of Bradenton Parish

Bob Reddy in support of your new pastor As part of the installation pro- of the Florida Catholic staff shows a level of support he will cess, Bishop Dewane first intro- need to succeed,” Bishop De- duces the priest as pastor to the BRADENTON | A parish wane said. An installation of a parishioners. The priest later re- community recently held a cel- pastor is a punctuation mark in cites a profession of faith for all ebration for the installation of its the life of a parish, and in this to hear, including an additional new Pastor, a pivotal moment in case an exclamation point, he part solely for him. The new pas- Above, Father Tomasz Zalewski is congratulated by Bishop Frank J. the life and history of any Parish. explained. “Let this moment be tor then recites an Oath of Fidel- Dewane and the faithful following his installation as pastor of St. The installation Mass of Fa- that for the people of St. Joseph. ity and promises to “adhere to Joseph Parish in Brandeton Dec. 20. Below, following the rite, Father ther Tomasz Zalewski of St. Jo- Move forward with Father Za- the teachings, which either the Zalewski and two witnesses sign forms with Bishop Dewane. (PHOTOS seph Parish in Bradenton was lewski as he guides you in your Roman Pontiff or the college of BY BOB REDDY | FC) celebrated Dec. 20 and presided faith journey.” bishops enunciate when they ex- over by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. St. Joseph Parish was estab- ercise authentic magisterium.” A pastor is someone who lished in 1927 for the growing The installation also includes serves as a “wise teacher” so as Catholic population in Manatee prayers to provide the new pas- to lead the faithful to Christ, County. It was relocated to its tor the wisdom and guidance Bishop Dewane said. Without current location in 1954 where from the Holy Spirit to lead the the support of the faithful a pas- a new church and school were parish. tor cannot succeed. It is the task built. The current church was The ceremony concludes with of a pastor to call on people to be renovated in 1993. The parish the signing of documents by the true disciples, evangelizers and currently has approximately Bishop, the new pastor, and two messengers of their Faith. 2,500 families. Father Zalewski official witnesses of the Parish “You are all true witnesses of had previously served as Admin- community, who serve as wit- the Faith. Your presence here istrator of the Parish. nesses for all of the parishioners. n 3 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Evenings dedicated to charity Staff Report

VENICE | Now is the time of year that people are planning their busy seasonal social schedule with lots Florida of interesting activities to choose for evenings of elegance or just ca- Catholic sual fun. DIOCESE OF VENICE While choosing among the many opportunities Southwest Florida Vol. 77, No. 5 has to offer can be difficult, consid- er these events as a chance to give 1000 Pinebrook Road back to the community, which will Venice, FL 34285 go to directly help our needy broth- 941-484-9543 • Fax 941-483-1121 ers and sisters in Christ through the many programs of Catholic Chari- PUBLISHER ties, Diocese of Venice Inc. Bishop Frank Dewane In most cases, the Catholic DIOCESAN EDITOR Charities galas are elegant black- Bob Reddy tie affairs, but no matter what the [email protected] attire, all of the proceeds will go 941-484-9543 directly to help those in the com- munity where the event is held. Bishop Frank J. Dewane, center, Father Vincente Clemente, left, Pastor of St. Paul Parish in Arcadia, as • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: This means by buying a ticket, well as representatives of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, the DeSoto County Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, one could literally help feed fami- government, Catholic Charities and others participate Oct. 5 in a groundbreaking ceremony for Phase II of or customerservice@theflorida lies, teach children to read or even the Casa San Juan Bosco farmworker housing of Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice Inc. (BOB REDDY | FC) catholic.org prevent someone from becoming Notify us of address changes (temporary homeless. From late January to SCHEDULED EVENTS or permanent) as soon as possible. Please early April there are seven chances change your address online at www. to support Catholic Charities in an • Catholic Charities Ball, Jan. 30, per person. Contact Kathy Isbell at thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at entertaining way. 6 p.m., Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. $300 941-485-6264 or ourmothershouse@ 1-888-275-9953. “These Catholic Charities ga- per person. Contact Marisa Pufta at ccdis1.org. las and events are of critical im- 941-355-4680, ext. 305; or email • Venetian Charity Ball, March • ADVERTISING: Contact Jane Radetsky at portance as it brings like-minded [email protected]. 12, 6 p.m., Hyatt Coconut Point, 407-373-0075 or • Mardi Gras Madness, Feb. 9, Bonita Springs. $225 per person. Call [email protected] and faith-filled people together • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock for a good cause,” explained Peter 6 p.m., Michael’s on East, Sarasota. 239-334-4007 or email venetianball@ at 1-888-275-9953, or Routsis-Arroyo, Catholic Charities, ner Dance on Feb. 20 is for those in- $150 per person. Contact Marisa Pufta ccslee.org. [email protected] Diocese of Venice Inc. CEO. “Each terested in something more casual. at 941-355-4680, ext. 305; or email • Emerald Ball, March 19, 6 p.m., gathering serves to help educate As the name of the event states, [email protected]. Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort, Naples. State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite people about a critical need in the boots and bandannas are encour- • Boots and Bandannas Dinner $300 per person. Call 239-455-2655 G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; area, while at the same time offer- aged and the evening will include Dance, Feb. 20, 6 p.m., Kingsway or email mary shaughnessy@ Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Country Club, Port Charlotte. $75 catholiccharitiescc.org. Toll-free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 ing everyone a chance to have fun. live country music. Programs in The upcoming events will be DeSoto County benefit, including per person. Contact Andy Herigodt • Veterans Gala, April 7, 6 p.m., EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: centered on various themes and immigration and family reunifica- at 863-494-1068 or email charity2@ Venice Performing Arts Center, Venice. General Manager: Ann Borowski Slade most will include a cocktail hour, tion services, prevention and sup- embarqmail.com. Visit www.veniceperformingartscenter. Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez auction, dining and dancing. port services, after-school tutoring • Our Mother’s House Wine com for tickets. Business Manager: Pat Spencer Tasting, Auction and Dinner For more information about Advertising Sales Manager: First on the calendar is the an- program, and farmworker housing nual Catholic Charities Ball on Jan. enrichment and educational ser- Dance, Feb. 25, 5:30 p.m., Plantation any of the events, visit www. Jane Radetsky Golf and Country Club, Venice. $80 Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro 30, which benefits the programs vices. catholiccharitiesdov.org. Social Media/Community Specialist: and services of Catholic Charities The Our Mother’s House Wine Michael Carlock in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Tasting, Auction and Dinner Dance Advertising Graphic Designer: Proceeds will support programs on Feb. 25 helps mothers and their tance, senior services, food pantries for mothers. In addition, there are Michael Jimenez Advertising Assistant: Valerie Casko including Our Mother’s House, St. babies avoid being homeless. This and food programs, immigration special projects such as Undy Sun- Martha’s Early Learning Center, comprehensive outreach is com- services, youth tutoring and men- day, the weekend power pack food Have a comment/want more info/ Bethesda House, Catholic Charities mitted to helping mothers and their toring, adult education, youth edu- program for children, as well as have a story suggestion? Leave your Family Haven, housing counsel- children achieve self-sufficiency cation and summer programs, case holiday gift and food distributions. feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; ing and foreclosure prevention, fi- through a 24-month residency pro- management, financial assistance, The final event of the season, but click reader feedback button on left of nancial assistance, senior services, gram. and infant/toddler assistance. certainly not the least important, is screen. professional counseling, refugee While many of the early sea- Consider wearing something the annual Venice Veterans Gala Send statewide news releases to services, and immigration services. son events are concentrated in the green and going to the Emerald Ball on April 7. This is the third year for [email protected] A fun-filled evening on Mardi northern sections of the Diocese, on March 19. Proceeds benefit pro- this event and it serves as a salute to Gras, Feb. 9, goes directly to help the people of Lee, Hendry and grams in Collier County including all United States military veterans. Our staff meets for prayer each work day at Bethesda House, a program of Hardee counties will not be over- financial assistance, professional This year will include a special trib- 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ Catholic Charities which provides looked when they will have the counseling, food pantries and pro- ute to soldiers who served during thefloridacatholic.org professional and compassionate opportunity to go to the Venetian grams, refugee services, senior ser- the Vietnam War. Proceeds benefit All contents copyright © 2016, The Florida support services for individuals suf- Charity Ball on March 12. Catholic vices, immigration and legal servic- programs and services of Catholic Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from fering with HIV/AIDS. Charities outreach there includes es, soup kitchen, clothing room and Charities throughout the Diocese Catholic News Service. The Boots and Bandannas Din- human trafficking victims’ assis- shower program, English classes that assist veterans. n

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Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 4 Prayer Walks for Life set for Sarasota, Port Charlotte people should not be turned off by Regional Headquarters at 736 Cen- there will be a Project Rachel retreat to keep the ongoing efforts to end Diocesan group the recent shooting at a Planned tral Ave. Shuttle buses will run from for hope and healing after abortion abortion in the United States at the Parenthood in Colorado. As tragic St. Martha Parish following Mass on Jan. 24, at a confidential location forefront of the nation’s conscience, heads to D.C. for as that event was, the pro-life move- until 2 p.m. within the Diocese. Registration is the novena and Prayer Walks for ment is a peaceful effort, Berdeaux Next on the schedule is an op- now open for the one-day retreat, Life are not the only opportunities March for Life explained. “We gather to pray portunity for all Catholics to join which is designed to help women to be a witness against evil in 2016. peacefully. This idea is to pray for for a national novena of prayer for hurting from past abortions. The Each Friday throughout the year, Bob Reddy the babies who are never born, life, called “9 Days for Life.” This retreat includes an opportunity to the day most abortions are done, of the Florida Catholic staff for the mothers who have had an is an opportunity for the faithful share Scriptural stories of Christ’s there are people who stand prayer- abortion, for the abortion industry across the Diocese and the coun- healing love, spend quiet time in ful vigil in Sarasota. The faithful SARASOTA | One of the most workers that they stop. This is not try to recite various prayers each prayer and receive Sacramental are always welcome to spend time fundamental evils in society is that about conflict; it is about changing day from Jan. 16 to Jan. 24, includ- Reconciliation and Eucharist. The in prayer from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. of abortion. All Catholics are called minds.” ing on the anniversary of the Roe v retreat is limited to 10 participants, In Port Charlotte, the vigil days by Christ to be witnesses of our These prayer vigils have a long Wade decision. There are different but this should not discourage are Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. and Faith and to stand up against all history of success locally. For ex- ways to participate in the novena, anyone from inquiring as future Wednesdays at 2 p.m. In Naples, evil, but in particular abortion. ample, more than 110 babies are which begins on the eve of Sanctity retreats are in the planning stages. there is a prayer vigil in front of the The Diocese of Venice Respect known to have been saved in front of Human Life Sunday. First, get the Preregistration is required. For in- Planned Parenthood on Mondays Life Office is co-sponsoring several of the Sarasota Planned Parenthood “9 Days for Life” app via the App formation, please contact Fonda from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In Fort events in the coming weeks to mark Regional Headquarters during the Store or Google Play; text 9DAYS Luersman at 239-719-7210 or fonda. Myers, the vigils are on Monday the 43rd anniversary of the Roe v. past several years alone. With suc- to 55000, sign up to receive a daily [email protected]. and Thursday mornings in front of Wade U.S. Supreme Court decision cesses like this, there has been sub- email; or download the novena at On Jan. 26 there is a Prayer Walk the Planned Parenthood. which opened the door for abortion stantial growth in the number of www.9daysforlife.com. All of the for Life in Port Charlotte. Bishop De- Furthermore, on Ash Wednes- in the United States. Since that deci- those who support seeking an end to prayers are also available in Span- wane will celebrate 8:30 a.m. Mass day, Feb. 10, the annual 40 Days for sion on Jan. 22, 1973, more than 55 abortion in the U.S. in recent years, ish. at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Life prayer vigil will begin in front of million babies have been aborted. witnessed by the large crowds that While the “9 Days for Life” is 2500 Easy St., Port Charlotte. The the Planned Parenthood facility in There will be several local walks to attend prayer vigils in the Diocese taking place, a group of nearly 200, Mass will be followed by a peace- Naples. This constant vigil through- commemorate the tragic anniver- of Venice and elsewhere, Berdeaux mostly young people, from the Dio- ful prayer walk to a nearby abortion out Lent is open to the public from 9 sary of the Roe v. Wade decision, explained. cese of Venice will travel with Bish- facility. a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Bishop De- as well as opportunities to unite in “Prayer walks have become ef- op Dewane to Washington, D.C., to Berdeaux encourages everyone wane will help kick off the 40 Days prayer for life with people around fective tools in getting the word out participate in the National March to participate in one or more of the for Life there at the 8 a.m. Mass at St. the country. that the faithful are seeking a peace- for Life Jan. 22 on the National activities in January, including the 9 William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive. The local walks are opportuni- ful end to the scourge on society Mall. The youth will participate in Days for Life novena and if possible, The prayer vigil takes places outside ties to actively participate in the im- that is abortion,” she added. the Vigil Mass at the Basilica of the one of the two prayer walks. “Par- Planned Parenthood at Goodlette- portant cause of saving the lives of The first opportunity to stand National Shrine of the Immaculate ticipating in a Prayer Walk for Life is Frank and Creech Roads. n the unborn. Each walk will include up and be recognized as being Conception in Washington. The a powerful show of unity that has a time for respectful prayer outside of pro-life is at the annual Sarasota morning of the March for Life, the real impact. No matter what, please For more details about respect a facility that conducts abortions. Prayer Walk for Life on Jan. 15. The entire Diocese of Venice contin- pray for an end to abortion. Thank- life activities throughout the Dio- There are always opportunities for day will begin with 8:30 a.m. Mass gency will participate in morning fully, many women have chosen life cese of Venice, please visit www. Eucharistic Adoration and prayer in at St. Martha Parish, 200 N. Orange Mass at St. Peter’s on Capitol Hill by the mere fact that they see some- dioceseofvenice.org or contact the churches for people who are not Ave., celebrated by Bishop Frank before going to a rally at the Verizon one is praying for them to protect Jeanne Berdeaux at 941-441-1101 able to participate in the actual vigil. J. Dewane. Following the Mass, a Center. their unborn child.” or Berdeaux@dioceseofvenice. Jeanne Berdeaux, Diocese of peaceful prayer walk will take place While all prayer vigils pray for While the anniversary of Roe org. Venice Respect Life Director, said in front of the Planned Parenthood women who have had an abortion, v. Wade on Jan. 22 is a logical time Two Diocesan women become novices for religious order

Staff Report Wauchula, was present for the Mass, The women will spend at least representing the parish as a witness. one year in the novitiate, and if ev- WASHINGTON | Maria Puerta She also brought a group from the erything goes well, they will be ad- de Misericordia (Mary Door of Parish to witness the ceremony. mitted to the first vows next year by Mercy) and Mary Crown of Purity “It was a beautiful ceremony,” November, Sister Gema explained. were admitted to the novitiate of the Sister Gema explained. “We are so Within the Servants of the Lord Servants of the Lord and the Virgin proud to have these two wonderful and the Virgin of Matará, each stage of Matará religious order. They were women, who we know so well, take in religious life has a critical role in two of 15 women who received their this important step.” the development and growth of a white veil as they enter a new stage Maria Puerta de Misericordia sister as a spouse of Christ, the or- of growing in the religious vocation. learned about the religious order ders website explains. The vocation Maria Puerta de Misericordia is when Sister Gema and an addi- is not a career requiring a “train- the religious name of Maribel De- tional sister were assigned to her ing period”; it is an entire life spent loera of Wauchula, and Mary Crown home parish several years ago. Mary continually choosing to love and of Purity is the religious name of Crown of Purity, whose family are serve God above all other things. It Christina Wood from Lehigh Acres. members of St. Raphael Parish in is in formation where a sister first They finished their postulancy and Lehigh Acres, was seeking to enter learns to conquer herself and her were admitted to the novitiate, re- religious life. After several visits to attachments to the world; for, only ceiving the habit shortly after. St. Michael Parish and Washington, by (more deeply knowing) herself is The investiture took place Dec. 7 D.C., she made her commitment to she able to give herself entirely to her in Washington, D.C., during a vigil the order as well. Beloved. Mass on the Feast of the Immaculate Novices of the Servants of the Stages include postulancy, no- Conception, in the Crypt Church of Lord and the Virgin of Matará re- vitiate, then following first profes- Maribel Deloera from Wauchula, left, now Maria Puerta de the Basilica of the National Shrine ceive the white veil as a sign of their sion the women begin a new period Misericordia (Mary Door of Mercy), and Christina Wood from Lehigh of the Immaculate Conception with new stage of growing in their reli- of formation, Juniorate House of Acres, right, now Mary Crown of Purity, are among those admitted Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, gious vocation. During this period Studies, which includes advanced to the novitiate with the Sister Servants of the Lord and the Virgin Archbishop Emeritus of Washing- they continue to learn more about theological and philosophical stud- of Matará order. (COURTESY) ton, presiding. religious life in the order, to know ies. After six years of temporary Sister Gema Maria de Jesus Ruiz and be known, and to deepen their profession, the religious requests to tion and the six years of temporary reaches this point, she may be ready of the order, Director of Religious lives of prayer during their canoni- make her perpetual profession of vows are all ordained to the perpet- and able to commit her entire self to Education at St. Michael Parish in cal novitiate year. vows. The previous stages of forma- ual vows, so that by the time a sister Jesus Christ forever. n 5 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Holy Doors of Mercy open for all Bob Reddy of the Florida Catholic staff

VENICE | When Susan Fa- hey entered Epiphany Cathedral through the Holy Door of Mercy re- cently, she started to cry. Such was the power of the pilgrimage for Fa- hey, who only physically travelled a few miles from San Pedro Parish in North Port, but spiritually went much farther than she was expect- ing. Fahey is one of many who have taken the call of Pope Francis to make a pilgrimage during this Ex- traordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. “This was something that couldn’t wait,” Fahey explained. “I regularly struggle with my faith and look to Christ for guidance. Going through that door has done that for me.” During this Jubilee Year, which started Dec. 8 and continues until Nov. 20, 2016, it was the request of Pope Francis that there be a Holy Door of Mercy in every Diocese in The Holy Door of Mercy at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice is located the world, specifically at all dioce- by the south (Post Office) entrance. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) san cathedrals and other designat- ed churches. These doors are avail- able locally in order to allow the Prayer for Jubilee Year of Mercy faithful in every part of the world Lord Jesus Christ, a better opportunity to experience you have taught us to be merciful the Mercy of the Father in its full- like the heavenly Father, ness. Within the Diocese of Venice, and have told us that whoever sees there are two Holy Doors — one at you sees Him. Epiphany Cathedral and the second Show us your face and we will be at Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Boca saved. The Holy Door of Mercy at Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Boca Grande. Grande. Your loving gaze freed Zacchaeus As part of the Jubilee Year, Pope and Matthew from being enslaved Francis also extended a plenary in- by money; WORKS OF MERCY dulgence for those who go through the adulteress and Magdalene from a Holy Door. While certain condi- seeking happiness only in created The Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy are actions that can be performed tions must be met to receive the things; to extend God’s compassion and mercy to those in need. indulgence, Pope Francis said that made Peter weep after his betrayal, Corporal Works of Mercy Spiritual Works of Mercy and assured Paradise to the repen- when going through the Holy Door, The Corporal Works of Mercy are The Spiritual Works of Mercy are acts tant thief. he wants everyone to open their these kind acts by which we help our of compassion, as listed below, by Let us hear, as if addressed to each heart and seek the mercy of the neighbors with their material and which our neighbors are helped with one of us, Lord. “Let this be your way to sal- physical needs. their emotional and spiritual needs. the words that you spoke to the Samaritan woman: vation. … We are all in need of this • To feed the hungry. • To instruct the ignorant. “If you knew the gift of God!” as we are all sinners; we all need to • To give drink to the thirsty. • To counsel the doubtful. hear the word of the Lord.” • To clothe the naked. • To admonish sinners. You are the visible face of the invisible Father, Fahey agrees. “I am a sinner. It • To harbor the harborless. • To bear wrongs patiently. of the God who manifests his power above all by forgiveness and mercy: • To visit the sick. • To forgive offenses willingly. is our great flaw as human beings. let the Church be your visible face in the world, its Lord risen and glorified. • To ransom the captive. • To comfort the afflicted. We must work to overcome this sin You willed that your ministers would also be clothed in weakness • To bury the dead. • To pray for the living and the by growing closer to the Lord. I pray in order that they may feel compassion for those in ignorance and error: dead. that I am one step closer today, hav- Let everyone who approaches them feel sought after, loved, and forgiven by ing gone through this Holy Door,” God. From the Catechism of the Catholic Church: she said. The Holy Father also asks that Send your Spirit and consecrate every one of us with its anointing, 2447. “The works of mercy are charitable actions by which we come to the the faithful share God’s Mercy “and so that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a year of grace from the Lord, aid of our neighbor in his spiritual and bodily necessities. Instructing, advising, draw close to those who suffer, and your Church, with renewed enthusiasm, may bring good news to the poor, consoling, comforting are spiritual works of mercy, as are forgiving and bear- those who are discarded by society: proclaim liberty to captives and the oppressed, ing wrongs patiently. The corporal works of mercy consist especially in feeding There we find Jesus.” This can be and restore sight to the blind. the hungry, sheltering the homeless, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and achieved through performing one imprisoned, and burying the dead. Among all these, giving alms to the poor is one of the chief witnesses to fraternal charity; it is also a work of justice of the Spiritual or Corporal Works pleasing to God. of Mercy, which can also bring a for the Holy Father’s intentions, and Those considering making a 2448. “In its various forms — material deprivation, unjust oppression, physi- plenary indulgence during this Ju- have the intention to be completely pilgrimage are encouraged to cal and psychological illness and death — human misery is the obvious sign bilee Year. detached from sin. call ahead of time for hours, Mass of the inherited condition of frailty and need for salvation in which man finds The indulgence removes all the While it is ideal to meet these times, and times for Confession. For himself as a consequence of original sin. This misery elicited the compassion temporal punishment due to sin conditions on the day of the indul- Epiphany Cathedral, call 941-484- of Christ the Savior, who willingly took it upon himself and identified himself for those who meet the conditions genced act, they can also be met 3505; for Our Lady of Mercy, call with the least of his brethren. Hence, those who are oppressed by poverty are of receiving the said indulgence. within a week before or after the 941-964-2254. To learn more about the object of a preferential love on the part of the Church which, since her To obtain the Jubilee Indulgence, act. In addition, a plenary indul- the Year of Mercy, the Holy Door origin and in spite of the failings of many of her members, has not ceased to the following conditions must also gence during the Jubilee Year can or about plenary indulgences, visit work for their relief, defense, and liberation through numerous works of char- be met: receive the Holy Eucharist, be received multiple times, but a www.dioceseofvenice.org/jubilee- ity which remain indispensable always and everywhere.” go to Sacramental Confession, pray maximum of once a day. year-of-mercy/. n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 6 Mass celebrated for Haitian community BoB Reddy of the Florida Catholic staff At far left, Bishop BONITA SPRINGS | While peo- Quesnel ple were celebrating the New Year, Alphonse of a dedicated Catholic community Fort-Liberte, gathered for a combined celebra- Haiti, deliv- tion of the Solemnity of Mary, the ers a hom- Holy Mother of God, and the 212th ily Jan. 1 at anniversary of the establishment St. Leo the of the first independent republic Great Parish in the Caribbean — Haiti. in Bonita This annual gathering brings Springs as together some 1,000 Haitian Cath- Bishop Frank olics from throughout the Diocese J. Dewane looks. At of Venice on New Year’s Day to left, Bishop St. Leo the Great Parish in Bonita Dewane Springs. Bishop Frank J. Dewane stands with hosted the celebration, which in- Bishop cluded Mass and a reception. op Alphonse for being a guest of aged everyone to sing the national Alphonse be- The Mass was celebrated by the Diocese and sharing his time anthem of Haiti. fore the Mass Bishop Quesnel Alphonse, a with the Haitian community. For the Haitian community, which gathers Montfort Missionary of the Dio- Bishop Dewane then recognized Jan. 1 is both a spiritual day and the Haitian cese of Fort-Liberte, Haiti. Bishop the Haitian priests for their con- an emotional day. It was Jan. 1, community in Dewane concelebrated the Mass tinued dedication and passion 1803, that the Haitians defeated celebration along with the Diocesan Haitian for caring for the faithful, in par- the largest and most powerful of Haitian in- priests, and priests from St. Leo ticular those in the Haitian com- army at the time, the army of Na- dependence. the Great Parish. Bishop Alphonse munity. poleon, in Cap-Haitien. On Jan. (PHOTOS thanked Bishop Dewane for the “It is always an honor and privi- 1, 1804, Haiti became the second BY BOB invitation to come to Florida. lege to participate in such an im- country in the Americas to de- REDDY | FC) During the homily, Bishop Al- portant cultural and religious clare its independence. phonse spoke about the celebra- celebration for the growing Hai- When the French were in con- tion of the independence of Haiti tian community in the Diocese,” trol, they enacted a law that said and how it importantly falls on a Bishop Dewane said. the French were the only ones who major celebration of the Blessed There are currently Masses could eat soup because they were Virgin Mary. He said Haitians in celebrated in Creole at parishes in the upper class. When Haiti Southwest Florida must make an in Bradenton, Fort Myers, Immo- proclaimed its independence, all effort to keep a connection to their kalee, Naples, Port Charlotte and Haitians started to eat soup as a 34832-0108 homeland, as well as with their Wauchula, and the New Year’s way to demonstrate that everyone faith. This will serve them well in Day celebration is one of the few was equal. Thus began the cus- whatever obstacles they may face times the entire community can tom of cooking and eating soup at Englewood Elks Lodge in the future, he told the faithful. gather in one place. Following the on New Year’s Day as a way to cel- 401 N. Indiana Ave., Englewood, FL Bishop Dewane thanked Bish- Mass, Bishop Alphonse encour- ebrate. n Elks Lodge: 941-474-1404 Saturday, Feb. 6 Newsbrief 5-9 p.m. E.F.O. - Eddie Forman Orchestra Epiphany athletes $16 per ticket advance - $18 at the door • Cash or Money Order compete in Doors and Kitchen will be open at 4:30 p.m. – Food Available NFL contest Six Epiphany Cathedral Catho- lic School students competed in the National Football League’s Play 60 Punt, Pass and Kick dis- trict competition on Dec. 13 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Qualifying Epiphany stu- dents were Jake Papantonakis, Daniel Staas, Julia Bettley, Bailey • Basics of arthritis pain Traub, Stephen Reopell and Claire • Surgical and non-surgical treatment Woody. • Minimall invasive surgical treatment The students were able to run • Anterior Hip Replacement through the tunnel with the Tam- Six Epiphany Cathedral students qualified for the district NFL Play pa Bay Buccaneers, and while the 60 competition. In the back row, from left, are Jake Papantonakis, • What to expect before, during and after surgery team was warming up the students Daniel Staas, Coach Karen Gaba, Julia Bettley and Bailey Traub. In • Partial and ACL sparing knee replacement competed in punting, passing and front, from left, are Stephen Reopell and Claire Woody. (COURTESY) Visit jointimplant.com for seminar dates and to reserve your seat. kicking. Following the competi- tion the students were invited to held at the Super Bowl in Santa corporates the campaign into the stand on the sidelines with the Clara, Calif., Feb. 7. Qualifying stu- curriculum, created in partner- Board Certified (AOBOS) Orthopedic Surgeon Buccaneers for the first quarter of dents will win an all-expense-paid ship with the American Heart As- Specializing in Joint Replacement and Reconstruction of the Hip and Knee the game prior to returning to their trip to the Super Bowl. sociation. This demonstrates the families in the stands. NFL Play 60 is the National Foot- goal of the Diocese Education De- Results calculated from district ball League’s campaign to encour- partment which is to work toward competitions throughout Florida age kids to be active for 60 minutes the integral spiritual, physical and 34781-0108 will determine which athletes will a day. Epiphany Cathedral Catho- intellectual development of each compete at the national level to be lic School’s athletic program in- student. 7 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Celebrating the birth of Christ in the Diocese Bob Reddy Young of the Florida Catholic staff students at St. Joseph SARASOTA | When the angels appeared before the shep- Catholic herds to herald the birth of the Christ Child all of us were called School in to celebrate this moment when the “Word was made Flesh.” Bradenton Throughout the Diocese of Venice this celebration took on gather many forms, from helping the needy with presents, food or even after a blankets, to sending a kind note of Christmas cheer to a stranger. perfor- All of these activities were a true reflection of the love of God that mance of arrived on that Holy Night in Bethlehem so long ago. Below are the Nativity just a few examples of this Diocesewide effort. story. Pope Francis spoke of Christmas by reminding the faithful (COURTESY) that “Jesus did not simply appear on earth, He did not dedicate a bit of His time to us, but He came to share our life, to receive our desires, because He wanted, and still wants to live here, together with us and for us. He has our world at heart, which at Christmas became His world. The crib reminds us of this: God, because of His great mercy, came down to us to remain stably with us.” The crib also tells us that God never imposes Himself by force, but in fact makes Himself small, the Holy Father continued. “He makes Himself a child, to attract us with love, to touch our hearts with His humble kindness; to shake, with His poverty, all those who are intent on accumulating the false treasures of this world. … Above all, however, He wants to move our hearts.” The celebration of the Feast of the Nativity of the Lord, the birth of Our Savior, began at Masses celebrated on Christmas Eve. It is at that time that the little baby is present in the manger for the first time. Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the midnight Mass at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, carrying the figurine of the Baby Jesus forward before placing it in the crèche. Bishop Dewane said that no matter what age we are, the light of Christ must be present in our life. “Let that presence of Christ within us be a light for oth- ers to follow. Further, see that Light in others. … Let the Light that is Christ grow within you and magnify it throughout the world for all to see by the life you live.” In the context of the Year of Mercy as called by Pope Francis, Bishop Dewane added that all should be conscious of how they are merciful toward others, particularly during the Christmas Season. The St. Ann Catholic School Christmas pageant includes music and Spreading the Light of Christ to others included people mak- a retelling of the Nativity story Dec. 11 in Naples. (COURTESY) ing Christmas cards for those in the military who are serving overseas. Involved in the effort were students from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers and also the Golden Gate Se- nior Resource Center of Catholic Charities in Naples. The cam- paign, coordinated by a Fort Myers radio station and organized by the Military Support Program at Lee Memorial Hospital, was expected to ship upwards of 20,000 cards. This is an example of the partnership the Diocese has with many organizations Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrates the throughout the 10-county area. Christmas Mass taping at St. Patrick Parish Epiphany Cathedral held its annual Christmas Day dinner. in Sarasota Dec. 17 to be televised for the This tradition is for those who are homeless or may be alone for homebound on Christmas Day. Christmas, and is supported by a huge number of volunteers of all ages from the parish. Bishop Dewane assisted on the serving line. Diocesan Catholic schools celebrated the Christmas Season in a variety of ways. In addition to Christmas concerts, pageants and Nativity plays, schools like St. John Neumann Catholic High Students in the creative arts class at St. John Neumann Catholic School in Naples went the extra mile. The creative arts class High School in Naples weaved Monk’s cloth blankets for Sunlight worked together to make homemade blankets that were woven Home, a residential Christian maternity home that provides a safe and bound from Monk’s cloth and presented to the Sunlight atmosphere for pregnant women and teens. (COURTESY) Home, a residential Christian maternity home that provides a safe, loving, family atmosphere serving pregnant women. The second- and third-graders from St. Francis Xavier Catho- lic School in Fort Myers and St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral visited Bishop Verot Catholic High School to decorate cook- ies and gingerbread houses. The high school band and choir per- formed Christmas songs for the younger students. Bringing the Light of Christ to the less fortunate was made possible through the generosity of the faithful at parishes across the Diocese who donated gifts for children by taking “orna- ments” off Jesse Trees. The trees were decorated with paper or- naments which describe the type of gift a child might need, and a short time later piles of gifts were returned and later distributed throughout the community. Bringing that Light of Christ to the lives of those less fortunate, Bishop Dewane taped a Christmas At the Golden Gate Senior Services Center run by Catholic Charities Sixth-graders portray the Three Kings in the Mass for the homebound which was broadcast on Christmas Day some of the seniors help make Christmas cards for the military Christmas pageant at St. Andrew Catholic throughout the Diocese. n serving overseas as part of a regional campaign. School in Cape Coral. (COURTESY) Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 8

text message or app. Sign up at include Matthew Leonard, Bear a.m., Bishop Verot Catholic High 941-486-0233, gazo@olph-retreat. DIOCESAN EVENTS www.9daysforlife.com. Woznick and Terry Barber. To School, Fort Myers. Speakers org. register: www.dioceseofvenice. include Scott Hahn, Emily 14th annual Catholic Marriage enrichment First-time home buyers org, or Office of Evangelization, Stimpson and Gina Loehr. Day Charities Christmas Appeal is retreat, Jan. 23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., classes, various dates, Catholic 941-484-9543. offers participants opportunity underway through January. This Our Lady of Perpetual Help Charities Office, 1219 16th St. W., to learn more about the Lord’s year’s goal is to raise $550,000. Retreat Center, Venice. Chance Mardi Gras Madness, Feb. 9, Bradenton. Classes in both Spanish Mercy and grow in faith. All The Appeal is the largest annual to renew and strengthen 6 p.m., Michael’s on East, Sarasota. and English. Participants will be women encouraged to attend. fundraiser and critical to operating marriage in the Catholic Faith. Proceeds benefit Bethesda eligible for assistance for down Registration must be made in the social service organization. Cost: $25 per couple, includes House, a program of Catholic payment and closing costs. Space advance; no tickets will be sold Gifts provide funding for lunch. Registration: www. Charities Diocese of Venice Inc., is limited; preregistration required. at the door. To register: Office of the many Catholic Charities dioceseofvenice.org/marraige- which provides professional and 941-714-7829. Evangelization, 941-484-9543; or programs and services available enrichment or Kim Elsmore, compassionate support services for World Youth Day pilgrimage: www.dioceseofvenice.org. throughout Southwest Florida. 941-484-9543, elsmore@ those with HIV/AIDS. Cocktail hour, Limited spots left. Diocese has To donate, please visit www. dioceseofvenice.org. auctions, Mardi Gras festivities, Venetian Charity Ball, March already received registration from catholiccharitiesdov.org or mail Project Rachel retreat dinner and dancing. Tickets: $150 12, 6 p.m., Hyatt Coconut Point, 120 individuals to join Bishop a donation to Catholic Charities, for hope and healing after per person. 941-355-4680, ext. Bonita Springs. Proceeds benefit Frank J. Dewane at World Youth Diocese of Venice Inc., 5824 Bee abortion, Jan. 24, at confidential 311; www.catholiccharitiesdov.org; programs and services of Catholic Day Krakow July 23 to Aug. 2, Ridge Road, PMB 409, Sarasota, FL location within the Diocese. [email protected]. Charities Diocese of Venice Inc. in 2016. Opportunity to see Pope 34233-5065. Registration open for one-day 40 Days for Life Naples Mass Lee, Hendry and Glades counties. Francis amongst millions of Includes cocktail hour, auctions, car ICSF Course 101 Catechetics retreat designed to help women and Prayer Walk for Life, Ash Catholic youth from around the raffle, dinner and dancing. Tickets: (FUS prerequisite), Thursdays, hurting from past abortions. Wednesday, Feb. 10, 8 a.m., St. world in the birth country of St. $225 per person. 239-334-4007, beginning Jan. 14, through April, Chance to share Scriptural stories William Parish, 601 Seagate Drive, John Paul II, founder of World [email protected], www. except Holy Week. The Institute for of Christ’s healing love, spend Naples. Bishop Frank J. Dewane Youth Day. Contact George Smith, catholiccharitiesdov.org. Catholic Studies and Formation’s quiet time in prayer and receive will celebrate Mass, followed by [email protected]. first prerequisite course for new Sacramental Reconciliation walk outside Planned Parenthood Emerald Ball, March 19, 6 Television Mass for the master’s program at Franciscan and Eucharist. Limited to 10 at Goodlette-Frank and Creech p.m., Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort, homebound in the northern University of Steubenville. participants. Preregistration Roads. Marks the beginning of the Naples. Proceeds benefit programs portions of the Diocese, 9:30 “Catechetics” is an undergraduate required. Contact Fonda, 239-719- spring 40 Days for Life Campaign. and services of Catholic Charities, a.m. on the CW Network; in 36-hour course all students must 7210 or [email protected]. 239-227-5192. Diocese of Venice Inc. in Collier the southern portions of the take upon acceptance into the FUS National March for Life Anniversary Masses 2016 County. Includes cocktail hour, Diocese, 10 a.m., on WFTX-TV graduate program. Course is also planning. Those planning to for couples celebrating 25, 30, auctions, dinner and dancing. (FOX-4). Check your local listings open to anyone, with or without participate in the National March 35, 40, 45, 50, or more years Tickets: $300 per person. 239- for channel information. Leaflet a degree or for non-credit. Will for Life, Jan. 22, in Washington, of marriage. Bishop Frank J. 455-2655, maryshaughnessy@ missals are available upon request be video-conferenced from the D.C., please visit www. Dewane, main celebrant. Feb. catholiccharitiescc.org, www. by calling 941-484-9543 and asking Catholic Center to at least one marchforlife.org. All are welcome 13, 11 a.m., Epiphany Cathedral, catholiccharitiesdov.org. about the TV Mass or by writing: parish in each deanery. 941-766- to join Bishop Frank J. Dewane Venice; March 12, 10 a.m., St. Leo Venice Veterans Gala, April TV Mass, Diocese of Venice, 1000 7334. for morning Mass at St. Peter’s on Parish, Bonita Springs. Registration 7, 6 p.m., Venice Performing Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285. Mass to celebrate Capitol Hill prior to the March. is through individual parishes. Arts Center, Venice. Sponsored Gail Ardy: 941-486-4714, ardy@ volunteers, Jan. 16, 10 a.m., Jeanne Berdeaux, 941-441-1101 or Catholic Days at the Capitol. by Catholic Charities, Diocese of dioceseofvenice.org. St. Leo Parish, 28290 Beaumont [email protected]. Registration open for annual Venice Inc. Salute to U.S. military Safe Environment training. Road, Bonita Springs. Celebrated Sugar Bowl “Knight of three-day bus trip to Tallahassee veterans with special tribute to The diocese requires all employees by Bishop Frank J. Dewane in Rock,” Jan. 23, 4 p.m., Mixon Fruit Feb. 16-18. Register and reserve soldiers of the Vietnam War. and those volunteers who work appreciation of the volunteers of Farm, Bradenton. Sponsored by hotel room by submitting form at Proceeds benefit programs and with children and/or vulnerable the Diocese. Lunch in the Parish Knights of Columbus St. Joseph www.flaccb.org. Jeanne Berdeaux, services of Catholic Charities adults be fingerprinted and hall follows. All are welcome, Council 5604. Sugar Bowl Fund 941-441-1101 or Berdeaux@ that assist veterans. www. trained in safe environment. For but registration is required: is partnership between Knights dioceseofvenice.org. veniceperformingartscenter.com. classes, contact your local parish dioceseofvenice.org/events. and Catholic Charities Diocese of Leaven Conference, Feb. 20, Wednesday morning or Diocesan school or visit www. Retired priests retreat, Jan. Venice Inc., assisting local families 9 a.m., St. Francis Xavier Parish, adult faith formation video- dioceseofvenice.org. Report all 18-22, Our Lady of Perpetual that suffer an economic hardship 2157 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. conferencing sessions have abuses against minors to the Help Retreat Center, Venice. because of an emergency expense. Theme: “Integral Ecology: A Life recommenced. The free sessions Florida Department of Children Information, registration: Nancy Sponsorship opportunities of Mercy.” Workshops will address are available simultaneously and Families at 1-800-962-2873. Gazo, 941-486-0233, gazo@ available. Tickets: $10. Richard Pope Francis’ encyclical in the through the Institute for Catholic To report abuse by Diocesan olph-retreat.org. Audette, 941-773-1061, 349main@ context of the Jubilee Year of Studies and Formation centrally personnel or volunteers, call gmail.com. located video-conferencing sites. the Diocesan Victims Assistance Year of Mercy information. Mercy. Cost: $10; $5 for students, Sessions begin 9 a.m. and last Coordinator Barbara DiCocco at Dec. 8 marked the start of the “When you fast” retreat, Jan. includes lunch. Office of Peace and about 90 minutes. Attendees can 941-416-6114. Jubilee Year of Mercy, called 26, 5 p.m.- Jan. 28, 1:30 p.m., Our Justice, 941-484-9543, chestine@ go to any location and need not by Pope Francis to spread the Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat dioceseofvenice.org. participate in each session. For message of mercy throughout Center, 3989 S. Moon Drive, Boots and Bandannas Dinner video sites, details about topics the world. The Year of Mercy Venice. Includes full-day bread Dance, Feb. 20, 6 p.m., Kingsway COMMUNITY and to view early sessions, visit continues until Nov. 20, the and water fast with inspirational Country Club, Port Charlotte. https://institute.dov.org. EVENTS Solemnity of Christ the King. talks, confession, adoration and Benefits programs of Catholic For more information: http:// Holy Mass. Opportunity to learn Charities Diocese of Venice Theology on Tap. This exciting “Catholics Welcome Home,” dioceseofvenice.org/jubilee-year- how to integrate fasting into one’s Inc. in DeSoto County. Includes program for young adults (18-39) Tuesdays, through Feb. 16, 7 p.m., of-mercy/. life beyond Lent. Inclusive rates: cocktail hour, auctions, dinner, live allows them to learn about the St. William Parish, 750 Seagate private room, $240; shared room, faith while building community. Visiting the Holy Doors country music, and line dancing. Drive, Naples. All are invited to $186; commuter, $90. www.olph- This year Theology on Tap will of Mercy. Pope Francis is Tickets: $75 per person. Andy renew their relationship with retreat.org, 941-486-0233. be held at various parishes encouraging everyone to make Herigodt, 863-494-1068, charity2@ the Catholic Church regardless of throughout the Diocese. Each a pilgrimage to all diocesan Port Charlotte Prayer Walk embarqmail.com; or visit www. length of time away. Free program location will host a series of weekly cathedrals and other designated for Life, Jan. 26, 8:30 a.m., St. catholiccharitiesdov.org. will address questions and try to talks and discussions on relevant churches around the world where Charles Borromeo Parish, 2500 Silent Ignatian retreat, Feb. help people feel at home again. topics in a relaxed atmosphere. there is a Holy Door of Mercy. Both Easy St., Port Charlotte. Bishop 21-24, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Kristi Neumayer Jenkins, 239-261- Free baby-sitting, icebreakers, Epiphany Cathedral, 350 Tampa Frank J. Dewane will celebrate Retreat Center, Venice. Includes 5831. trivia, and food and drinks are Ave. W., Venice, 941-484-3505; Mass, followed by walk in front conferences each day, Mass, and provided. BYOB. Upcoming dates: Ask a theologian, Jan. 11, 7 and Our Lady of Mercy Parish, 240 of nearby abortion facility. opportunities to meet with retreat p.m., Our Lady of Light Parish, Park Ave., Boca Grande, 941-964- Commemorates 43rd anniversary director. Topics center around • Naples area, Tuesdays, 6:30-8 19680 Cypress View Drive, Fort 2254, will have extended hours for of Roe v. Wade decision. Jeanne Ignatian spirituality, prayer, and p.m. First Tuesdays, St. John the Myers. Everyone welcome to an pilgrims. Please call ahead. Berdeaux, 941-441-1101, discernment. Cost: $395. All rooms Evangelist; second Tuesdays, St. evening featuring Eric Sammons, [email protected]. Agnes; third Tuesdays, St. Peter Sarasota Prayer Walk for are single occupancy with full-size Diocese of Venice Director of the Apostle; fourth Tuesdays, St. Life, Jan. 15, 8:30 a.m., St. Martha Sarasota Catholic Charities bed and private bathroom. 941- Evangelization, speak on “The William. Parish, 200 N. Orange Ave., Ball, Jan. 30, 6 p.m., Ritz-Carlton, 486-0233, [email protected]. Catholic Church Teaches That?” Sarasota. Bishop Frank J. Dewane Sarasota. Proceeds benefit the Our Mother’s House wine Eucharistic Adoration, first Sue Ellen Nolan, 239-267-7088, ext. will celebrate Mass at St. Martha programs and services of Catholic tasting, auction and dinner Thursdays, 3 p.m., Our Lady of 245. Parish before the walk in front of Charities Diocese of Venice Inc. in dance, Feb. 25, 5:30 p.m., Perpetual Help Retreat Center, CCW meeting, Jan. 13, the Planned Parenthood abortion Sarasota and Manatee counties. Plantation Golf and Country Venice. 941-486-0233, gazo@olph- following 8:30 a.m. Mass, St. facility at 736 Central Ave. Cocktail hour, auctions, dinner Club, Venice. Benefits programs retreat.org. Raphael Parish, 770 Kilbourne Commemorates 43rd anniversary and dancing. Tickets: $300 per of Catholic Charities, Diocese Day of prayer, second Ave, Englewood. Features guest of Roe v. Wade decision. Shuttle person. 941-355-4680, ext. 311; of Venice Inc., committed to Wednesdays through April 2016, speakers from Englewood Helping buses will run from Parish www.catholiccharitiesdov.org; helping homeless mothers and 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Our Lady of Hands, which provides food and following Mass until 2 p.m. [email protected]. their children achieve self- Perpetual Help Retreat Center, supplies to the needy in the area, Jeanne Berdeaux, 941-441-1101, Diocese of Venice Men’s sufficiency. Tickets: $80 per Venice. Includes continental and Our Mother’s House, a part of [email protected]. Conference 2016, Feb. 6, 9 a.m., person. Kathy Isbell, 941-485-6264, breakfast, lunch, two conferences Catholic Charities which provides “9 Days for Life — A Digital Bishop Verot Catholic High School, [email protected], or and the opportunity for the shelter and guidance for single Pilgrimage for Life,” Jan. 16-24. Fort Myers. Opportunity for men www.catholiccharitiesdov.org. Sacrament of Reconciliation, mothers and their children. All are Join the U.S. bishops’ annual pro- of faith to grow closer to the Lord Diocese of Venice Women’s Mass. Cost: $25 per person, welcome. 941-475-8382, 630-319- life novena via Facebook, email, during this Year of Mercy. Speakers Conference 2016, Feb. 27, 9 preregistered; $30 at the door. 9497. 9 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016

M exiCAN mayor shot down Bishop: Murder was message from organized crime David Agren going to happen to you.” Drug cartels have been fighting Catholic News Service “This crime is a signature act over territory in Morelos for much that characterizes the failed pub- of the past decade, causing crime to MEXICO CITY | The assas- lic security system in the state,” he escalate and damaging the tourism sination of a Mexican mayor the said at the funeral. “I hope and pray economy of Cuernavaca, a city once day after she assumed office was a to God that Gisela’s death popular with expatriates message from organized crime and helps to make us all more and weekenders from evidence of its influence in the area conscious.” Mexico City and known around the city of Cuernavaca, said Authorities said Mota previously for its local the bishop who celebrated her fu- was murdered after as- pastor, now-deceased neral Mass. sailants burst into her Bishop Sergio Mendez “How is it possible that all of a home Jan. 2, one day after Arceo, nicknamed the region of the state is in the hands she took the oath of of- “Red Bishop.” of organized crime, that people fice. Two of the suspects Former Mexican soc- are paying protection money,” said were subsequently killed cer star Cuauhtemoc Bishop Ramon Castro Castro of Cu- in a shootout with police, Gisela Mota Blanco -- controversial ernavaca, in comments published while three more were arrested. for his on- and off-field behavior by the newspaper Reforma. The exact motive remains unclear, and a novice to politics -- assumed “This is evidence of our reality,” though Mota promised to clean up office as mayor of Cuernavaca in The coffin of Gisela Mota, former mayor of Temixco, Mexico, is carried Bishop Castro said Jan. 3 outside the Temixco, a suburb of Cuernavaca. late December, sparking a dispute out of her home Jan. 3. (Margarito Perez, Reuters | CNS) home of slain Mayor Gisela Mota in Morelos Gov. Graco Ramirez with the state government over po- Temixco, about 50 miles south of said the suspects belonged to a licing. than 30 percent of the vote, said the Before the June election, he orga- Mexico City in Morelos state. “I’ve drug cartel known as Los Rojos. The Ramirez took to Twitter to blast scheme was not working. nized a Walk for Peace that resulted been saying it for some time and mayor’s Party of the Democratic Blanco for backing out of a scheme Bishop Castro has stayed out of in attempts at a boycott and buses pleading, and no one has been able Revolution said at least 100 mayors for putting all police in the state un- politics and has promoted peace from one parish being prevented to do anything.” in Mexico had been attacked over der a single commander, a concept in the Diocese of Cuernavaca from leaving. n He said Mota’s murder sends the the past 10 years as criminal groups promoted as an attempt to prevent since arriving in 2013, although message, “If you don’t cooperate attempt to infiltrate and corrupt lo- police corruption. Blanco, who his work has not been without Follow Agren on Twitter: with organized crime, look at what’s cal governments. won the last mayoral race with less controversy. @el_reportero. VIOLENCE IN SOUTH SUDAN Bishop urges peace, says attack on nuns shakes church

Bronwen Dachs More than 100 people have been “The insecurity and tribal divi- Catholic News Service killed since May in Western Equato- sions are making people unwilling ria, which until then had been rela- to travel far” from home, he said, YAMBIO, South Sudan | An at- tively peaceful in war-torn South noting that “a return to unity and tack on religious sisters at a teacher Sudan. In early December, violent normal levels of security are essen- training college in South Sudan has battles erupted between armed tial” for people to be able to use the shaken and saddened the church, groups in Yambio. educational opportunities offered a church leader said, while urg- Solidarity with South Sudan is a by Solidarity. ing people of faith to demand the Catholic missionary group imple- Two years ago, fighting broke implementation of the latest peace menting teacher and health train- out in Juba, capital of South Sudan, accord to end the civil war. ing, agriculture, trauma healing between ethnic Dinka and Nuer Violence and fear-mongering and pastoral programs in many in the presidential guard. This was seem “rampant in both church and parts of South Sudan, under the months after President Salva Kiir, society” in the northeast African auspices of the Sudan Catholic who is Dinka, fired his vice presi- country, said Bishop Edward Hii- Bishops’ Conference. dent, Riek Machar, who is Nuer. boro Kussala of Tombura-Yambio. According to the Sisters of Notre The conflict soon turned into an Five armed men, believed to be Dame de Namur website, the Soli- all-out war in which thousands of Sister Sandra Amado, a Comboni sister from Brazil, teaches a class allied to South Sudan’s main rebel darity community in Yambio in- South Sudanese have been killed in 2012 at a teacher training institute in Yambio, South Sudan. A group, assaulted and threatened cludes religious from different and about 2 million people have late-December attack on religious sisters at the training institute in religious sisters at the Solidarity congregations around the world, been forced to flee their homes. South Sudan. (PAUL JEFFREY | CNS) Teacher Training College in Yam- including Montana and California Bishop Kussala called on people bio, the capital of the country’s as well as Ecuador, Ireland and New of faith to “demand that our political A deep sense of tragedy “hangs tion in the country, according to the Western Equatoria state, Dec. 28. Zealand. representatives find ways to imple- in the air and, in addition to praying Sudan Tribune. After climbing the fence sur- Fifty students graduated from ment” an August peace agreement for the perpetrators, those killed, in- In a message broadcast on state- rounding the college, the men con- the college mid-November and signed by Kiir, Machar and other jured, harmed and all of their fami- run television, the president said fronted the nuns, who were locking were to teach in primary schools stakeholders and to work toward lies, I find myself lamenting the lack he had assured the rebels of the up the building for the night, and around South Sudan. ending the “senseless violence.” of progress” in ending the attacks, government’s commitment “to do demanded guns, cash, phones and Despite being offered the option Noting that “our communities he said. whatever we can do to implement computers, De La Salle Brother Bill of “withdrawing from this area that are disrupted and lives are frac- Noting religious leaders’ efforts this peace agreement in order for us Firman, director of Solidarity with has experienced a rapid decline tured by such violence,” the bishop to bring about gun control, Bishop to return the country back to nor- South Sudan, said in a statement. in law and order,” most Solidarity said he prays that people “will reach Kussala said that “our awareness of mal.” “The sisters had no guns, but members have chosen to stay “as out to one another with the love of the massiveness of the task should While saying that Kiir’s creation handed over the other items” and the college is one of the few signs of God and with a voice that inspires not lead us to give up in despair but of 28 new states without consulta- the men drove away in two cars, hope and providers of opportunity justice, courage and peace.” encourage us to do what we can, tion was an obstacle to the accord’s Brother Firman said. “It was clearly for the people of this disturbed na- “Not a day seems to go by with- where we are, with what we have.” implementation, Machar noted that a planned attack, but the assailants tion,” Brother Firman said. out a news story that sends shivers “We are called more than ever to 78 members of the rebel group ar- were not familiar with the com- While classes are set to resume down my spine,” Bishop Kussala be witnesses of hope,” he said. rived in Juba in late December and pound,” he said, noting that it was Jan. 11, Brother Firman said he ex- said in a statement that he was dev- After attending prayer services at met with Kiir and other government “a very traumatic incident, but there pects the number of students to be astated at recent attacks, including St. Teresa Cathedral in Juba Dec. 27, leaders in preparation for further were no casualties.” lower than before. that on the religious sisters. Kiir called for peace and reconcilia- negotiations. n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS 10

BLESSED TERESA OF KOLKATTA Pope recognizes miracle to declare saint

Carol Glatz proved involved the healing of a St. John Paul II had made an ex- Catholic News Service now 42-year-old mechanical engi- ception to the usual canonization neer in Santos, Brazil. process in Mother Teresa’s case by VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis Doctors diagnosed the man with allowing her sainthood cause to be has approved a miracle attributed a viral brain infection that resulted opened without waiting the usual to the intercession of Blessed Te- in multiple brain abscesses, the five years after a candidate’s death. resa of Kolkata, thus paving the way priest said in a statement published He beatified her in 2003. The order for her canonization. He signed the Dec. 18 by AsiaNews, the Rome- she started — the Missionaries of decree for Blessed Teresa’s cause based missionary news agency. Charity — continues its outreach to and advanced three other saint- Treatments given were ineffective the “poorest of the poor.” hood causes Dec. 17, the Vatican and the man went into a coma, the Among the other decrees ap- announced. postulator wrote. proved Dec. 17, the pope recog- Although the date for the canon- The then-newly married man’s nized the heroic virtues of Com- ization ceremony will be officially wife had spent months praying to boni Father Giuseppe Ambrosoli, announced during the next consis- Blessed Teresa and her prayers were an Italian surgeon, priest and tory of cardinals in February, Arch- joined by those of her relatives and missionary who dedicated his life bishop Rino Fisichella, president of friends when her dying husband to caring for people in Uganda, the Vatican office organizing the was taken to the operating room where he also founded a hospital Mother Teresa accompanies Pope John Paul II as he visits people at Holy Year of Mercy events, had said Dec. 9, 2008. and midwifery school before his the Home For the Dying in Kolkata, India, in 1986. Caregiver to the it would be Sept. 4. That date cel- When the surgeon entered the death in 1987. His father ran the poor and sick, Blessed Mother Teresa, who died in 1997, was beatified ebrates the Jubilee of workers and operating room, he reported that highly successful Ambrosoli honey by the Polish pontiff in 2003. (Arturo Mari, L’Osservatore volunteers of mercy and comes the he found the patient awake, free of company. Romano | CNS) day before the 19th anniversary of pain and asking, “What am I doing The pope also recognized the her death, Sept. 5, 1997. here?” Doctors reported the man heroic virtues of De La Salle Broth- doctor was the father of 10 children man parliament. He founded the The postulator for her sainthood showed no more symptoms and a er Leonardo Lanzuela Martinez and dedicated much of his activ- St. Francis Xavier Mission Society cause, Father Brian Kolodiejchuk Vatican medical commission voted of Spain (1894-1976) and Heinrich ity to providing medical care to the in Germany and the “Giuseppino” of the Missionaries of Charity, said unanimously in September 2015 Hahn, a German surgeon. poor. He was also involved in pub- Institute for those suffering from in- the second miracle that was ap- that the healing was inexplicable. Born in 1800, the lay Catholic lic service, even serving in the Ger- curable illnesses. He died in 1882. n National March for Life changes venues But strengthens its phasize … that there’s always hope event for being the first governor to eating their salad, drinking their the respondents thought abortion and healing for anyone who’s made sign the Unborn Child Protection wine and talking so callously about should be legal in most or all cases. that sad decision, and it’s very im- from Dismemberment Abortion what they do and how much they That’s an increase from 51 percent message of ending portant in terms of our messaging,” Act. The legislation is under review can get for these body parts, I mean who said so at the beginning of Monahan-Mancini told Catholic in a state appeals court. it really has exposed to the nation 2015. The poll showed equal sup- abortion News Service. Two recent events loom over how horrendous these things are port among both Democrats and It’s also intended as a way to blunt this year’s march. Last summer, that are going on.” Republicans. Kurt Jensen critics, “because of the (presiden- an anti-abortion organization in Monahan-Mancini agreed that “I don’t think that poll is fair,” Catholic News Service tial) election and a lot of the rheto- California, the Center for Medi- the videos are “very hard to watch.” Monahan-Mancini said. “And I ric about the false ‘war on women,’” cal Progress, released a series of However, she finds them helpful to don’t think it’s reflective of the aver- WASHINGTON | The annual Monahan-Mancini added. secretly recorded videos that it the pro-life effort. age American and what they think.” March for Life, set for Jan. 22, will Retired Baltimore Ravens foot- claimed show representatives “The thing with abortion is, it’s Reversing the landmark Su- convene in a new location in the ball player Matt Birk is the head- from Planned Parenthood clinics very much in the dark. It’s a violent preme Court decision remains the nation’s capital for the traditional line speaker at the rally and that discussing the use of aborted in- kind of thing,” she said. “The great long-term goal of the march. But midday rally. Because of the ongo- evening’s Rose Dinner. Monahan- fant parts for profit. In November, gift, regardless if you agree with the organizers told CNS they prefer to ing refurbishment of the National Mancini said she expected at least a gunman opened fire at a Colo- (recording) approach, is bringing focus on changing the nationwide Mall and strict new regulations a couple of Republican presidential rado Springs Planned Parenthood into the light what happens behind conversation. that require temporary flooring to candidates to speak at the rally as clinic, killing three and wounding closed doors. It was just so clear that “I think we have a much loftier protect the grass, the rally has been well, but that any announcement nine. The suspect, Robert Dear, there was a lack of respect for these goal, and that’s to change the hearts moved from the West Front of the would come just before the event. was reported as telling police, “No little babies. They were just objects, and minds of Americans. That no Capitol to the Washington Monu- The day before the march, Father more baby parts,” in an apparent objects for material gain.” woman, in her right mind, would ment grounds. Frank Pavone, national director of reference to the videos. As for the Colorado shooter, ever choose abortion. Because we “We were lucky to get that. It’s Priests for Life, will lead a prayer The videos are the subject of liti- “That’s their responsibility when really have a deprived culture when going to cost us $70,000, and it’s not rally at the Planned Parenthood of- gation in U.S. District Court, North- people like that act in that way,” any woman thinks that’s an em- something we budgeted for,” said fices in Washington. A youth rally at ern District of California, where a Ciccocioppo said. “It’s not the re- powering act,” Monahan-Mancini Jeanne Monahan-Mancini, presi- the Renaissance Hotel follows. judge will decide whether the vid- sponsibility of the (anti-abortion) said. dent of March for Life. “It’s the most Other march-related activi- eos should be permanently sup- movement. This man has nothing Ciccocioppo said the challenge economical wide-open space we ties include a Mass opening the pressed because they violate Cali- to do with us.” to the pro-life movement in its quest could afford.” overnight National Prayer Vigil for fornia laws about secret recordings “The truth is going to come out to overturn Roe v. Wade is “that the Other than the venue, the event, Life at the Basilica of the National and also contributed to clinic ar- one way or the other,” Father Pa- court is still stacked against us.”“But which draws busloads of Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Concep- sons. Excerpts of the videos remain vone said. “The safest way to pro- we’re in this for the long haul. This parishioners and parochial school tion Jan. 21 and a Mass the next available on YouTube. ceed for the vast majority of those is going to be going on for as long students, is expected to remain morning at the Basilica; a Mass Even in truncated form, the vid- involved in the march is through as it takes,” he said. “Another focus much the same. Held since 1974, the and interdenominational prayer eos have had an effect, said Michael the peaceful, prayerful activities of the march is obviously to help march marks the anniversary of the service at Constitution Hall prior to Ciccocioppo, executive director of and legitimate avenues of govern- get the truth out there about how U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade the march; and two similar events, Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation, ment.” abortion harms women physically, decision in 1973, which legalized youth rally and Mass for Life, spon- a march participant. Nationally, support for legalized emotionally and mentally, and kills abortion. “Pro-Life is Pro-Woman” sored by the Archdiocese of Wash- “I haven’t seen every single video abortion remains strong. An Asso- living human beings, so we can get is this year’s theme. ington at the Verizon Center and from start to finish, but I’ve seen ciated Press poll taken shortly after the hearts and minds of the culture “We know that abortion takes the D.C. Armory. parts of all the videos,” he said. the Colorado incident showed sup- to really accept the fact that this is the life of one and wounds the life Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback will “When you listen to these doctors port at its highest level in two years. killing of little human beings, citi- of another, so we always try to em- be honored at the Constitution Hall sitting around eating their lunch, The poll found that 58 percent of zens of our country.” n 11 VATICAN NEWS Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Pope: Christ’s birth can bring peace, hope to world

Junno Arocho Esteves tians “are called to discover that erty, Jesus shows men and women Catholic News Service tender love of our heavenly Father who are simple of heart the true for each of us.” path of “authentic liberation and VATICAN CITY | Christmas is a The bells of St. Peter’s Basilica perennial redemption,” while giv- reminder that through the birth of pealed at midday, just as they did ing them strength to reject “godless Christ, hope and peace are possible late Dec. 24 when thousands packed ways and the richness of the world.” and that only through his grace can the church for Christmas Mass. “In a society so often intoxicated humanity find peaceful solutions to Hundreds of people who could not by consumerism and hedonism, the world’s most difficult problems, find room in the basilica braved the wealth and extravagance, appear- Pope Francis said. cold weather and watched on giant ances and narcissism, this Child “Only God’s mercy can free hu- screens from St. Peter’s Square. calls us to act soberly, in other manity from the many forms of With his voice noticeably hoarse words, in a way that is simple, bal- evil, at times monstrous evil, which from a bout of flu, the pope said in anced, consistent, capable of seeing selfishness spawns in our midst,” his homily that the prophetic words and doing what is a essential,” he the pope said Dec. 25. “Where God of Isaiah are those of a fulfilled said. is born, hope is born. Where God promise of joy and gladness that Christians, the pope said, are is born, peace is born. And where are “a sure sign that the message called to cultivate a sense of justice, peace is born, there is no longer Pope Francis kisses a figurine of the baby Jesus as he arrives to contained in the mystery of this discernment and doing God’s will room for hatred and for war.” celebrate Christmas Eve Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican night is truly from God.” Doubt and in a world that is often “merciless Heightened security around St. Dec. 24. (Paul Haring | CNS) indifference, he stressed, should be to the sinner and lenient to the sin.” Peter’s Square did little to dampen left to skeptics who “by looking to As a choral rendition of “Silent the spirits of an estimated 50,000 cently approved agreements would consolation and strength” to those reason alone, never find the truth.” Night” echoed through the basilica people attending the pope’s solemn bring a quick end to the wars afflict- suffering. “There is no room for the indif- during the distribution of Com- Christmas blessing “urbi et orbi” ing Syria and Libya, two countries Recalling the thousands of refu- ference which reigns in the hearts munion, many attending the Mass (to the city and the world). Many in ravaged by war for several years. gees and migrants fleeing poverty of those unable to love for fear of were visibly moved. A nun looking the crowd dressed festively and ap- He also prayed that the interna- and war, Pope Francis compared losing something,” he said. “All reverently toward the main altar plauded the music of the Vatican’s tional community would find ways the lack of respect for their dignity sadness has been banished, for the shed a single tear while smiling; marching band. to end atrocities in Iraq, Yemen, to the situation of Christ who was Child Jesus brings true comfort to gazing with the eyes that Pope However, police and anti-terror- Congo, Burundi, South Sudan and born into the world suffering “cold, every heart.” Francis said in his homily all Chris- ism task forces were a visible sign Ukraine. poverty and rejection.” The birth of Jesus, he continued, tians are called to look upon the of a world shaken by violence and Victims of terrorism were also in “May our closeness today be felt is a call for all Christians to “put Baby Jesus. extremism; conflicts that have not the pope’s thoughts and prayers as by those who are most vulnerable, away all fear and dread” and to “Like the shepherds of Bethle- even spared the birthplace of Jesus he remembered the victims of the especially child soldiers, women follow the path that leads to Christ hem, may we too, with eyes full Christ. The pope prayed that Israe- Russian airliner bombed in Egyp- who suffer violence, and the victims “who has been ‘born to us,’ he was of amazement and wonder, gaze lis and Palestinians would reach tian airspace and terrorist attacks of human trafficking and the drug ‘given to us’ as the prophet Isaiah upon the Child Jesus, the Son of a peaceful agreement that would in Beirut and Paris; Bamako, Mali; trade,” he said. proclaims.” God. And in his presence may our end the “conflict which has long set and Tunis, Tunisia. As the Church celebrates the The coming of Christ into the hearts burst forth in prayer: ‘Show them at odds, with grave repercus- Christians persecuted for their Holy Year of Mercy, the pope said world, the pope said, shows what us, Lord, your mercy, and grant us sions for the entire region.” faith were remembered as the pope mercy is the “most precious gift is truly essential in life. Despite his your salvation,’” the pope said. n The pope also prayed that re- prayed that “the Child Jesus grant which God gives us” and that Chris- birth into the “nothingness” of pov- God’s mercy knows ‘no limits,’ frees people from despair which floods our world.” The grace Carol Glatz and their side,” especially during times a smaller chapel housing a Marian Mother of God, the pope asked for of Christ “brings our hope of sal- Junno Arocho Esteves of trouble and sorrow, he said. icon he is particularly devoted to — her intercession so that the faithful vation to fulfillment” and gives Catholic News Service At the church dedicated to Mary the “Salus Populi Romani” (health may imitate her in guarding and Christians the strength to build a and on her feast day as Mother of of the Roman people). meditating on all that happens in more “just and fraternal world.” VATICAN CITY | God’s ability God, the pope explained how Mary A deacon told the congregation their hearts. Mary “preserves the “Where philosophical reason to forgive “knows no limits” as his is the mother of mercy because she to pray together with the Holy Fa- joys and loosens the knots of our and political negotiation cannot mercy frees people from bitterness bore “the very face of divine mer- ther and ask Mary “to take us by lives, taking them to the Lord,” he arrive, there the power of faith, and despair, Pope Francis said. cy,” the son of God “made incar- the hand and lead us to the Lord said. which brings the grace of Christ’s “The Church’s forgiveness must nate for our salvation.” Jesus.” After the pope pushed open The pope also celebrated Mass Gospel, can arrive, opening ever be every bit as broad as that offered “Mary is an icon of how the the gates, he brought up a small in St. Peter’s Basilica in the morn- new pathways to reason and to ne- by Jesus on the cross and by Mary Church must offer forgiveness to floral arrangement of white lilies ing to mark the Marian feast day. gotiation,” he said. at his feet. There is no other way,” those who seek it. The mother of to the altar and prayed in silence God is present in human history, In an Angelus address Jan. 3, the he said after opening the Holy forgiveness teaches the Church before the icon. he said, despite signs and events pope reminded visitors in St. Pe- Door of the Basilica of St. Mary that the forgiveness granted on Earlier in the day, the pope that “tend to make us think instead ter’s Square to keep a small book of Major Jan. 1, the feast of Mary, Golgotha knows no limits. Nei- further marked the World Day of that he is absent.” the Gospels with them at all times Mother of God, and the World Day ther the law with its quibbles, nor Peace in his noon Angelus address, “Sometimes we ask ourselves and read at least one verse each of Prayer for Peace. the wisdom of this world with its when he said peace must not only how it is possible that human injus- day “in order to know Jesus better, On the first day of the new year, distinctions, can hold it back,” he be cultivated, but also conquered tice persists unabated, and that the to open our heart up wide to Jesus” Pope Francis opened the last holy said. in a spiritual fight being waged by arrogance of the powerful contin- and share him with others. door in Rome as part of the extraor- Mary offers the world Jesus, war and indifference. ues to demean the weak, relegat- The pope warned against “the dinary Holy Year of Mercy. “The who in turn, offers that forgive- Christians are called at the be- ing them to the most squalid out- mystery of evil which threatens door we have opened is, in fact, a ness which “renews life, enables ginning of the new year to open skirts of our world,” he said. “How our lives, too, and demands our Door of Mercy,” he said in his hom- us once more to do God’s will and their hearts and “reawaken the at- can the fullness of time have come vigilance and attention so it not ily, referring to the Roman basili- fills us with true happiness,” the tention to one’s neighbor, to those when we are witnessing hordes of prevail.” ca’s large bronze doors depicting pope said. “The power of forgive- who are closest,” he said. men, women and children flee- “Woe to us if we let in” sin which Mary presenting her resurrected ness is the true antidote to the sad- “War is not the only enemy of ing war, hunger and persecution, always lies in wait “at the door,” he son, Jesus. ness caused by resentment and peace, but also indifference, which ready to risk their lives simply to said. “Those who cross its threshold vengeance,” which do nothing but makes us think only of ourselves encounter respect for their funda- He also asked people take on the are called to enter into the merci- “trouble the mind and wound the and creates barriers, suspicions, mental rights?” title of his World Day of Peace mes- ful love of the Father with complete heart, robbing it of rest and peace.” fears and closures. These are the Pope Francis went on to say that sage, “Overcome Indifference and trust and freedom from fear; they After the Mass, the pope sym- enemies of peace,” the pope said. notwithstanding those events, the Win Peace,” like a New Year’s reso- can leave this basilica knowing bolically opened another door, this Recalling the Church’s cel- “swollen torrent” of misery is pow- lution to “put into practice” with with certainty that Mary is ever at time the large iron gates in front of ebration of the solemnity of Mary, erless “before the ocean of mercy God’s help. n Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic QUICK READS 12

FLORIDA delphia Archdiocese in the years the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Re- more help for refugees. “We extend VACATI N before Msgr. Lynn served as secre- search Reauthorization Act passed our wishes today to Muslims and tary for archdiocesan clergy from Dec. 16 and has been sent to Presi- Christians, knowing that this year Bishop Lessard 1992 to 2004. In that role, he over- dent Barack Obama’s desk for his the celebrations of Christmas and Pope announces saw priests assigned by Cardinal signature. In the House the sponsor the birth of the Prophet coincide,” dies at age 85 Anthony J. Bevilacqua to ministry of H.R. 2820 was Rep. Chris Smith, said Cardinal Rai, patriarch of Ma- appointments A longtime member of the faculty in archdiocesan parishes, schools N.J., with Rep. Doris Matsui, D- ronite Catholics. Muhammad’s VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Sem- and institutions. Evidence pre- Calif., as the lead co-sponsor. Reps. birthday, using the lunar calendar, appointed a U.S. media adviser as inary has died. Bishop Raymond sented during the three-month trial David Jolly, R-Fla., and Chaka Fat- was celebrated Dec. 23. In his Dec. the vice director of the Vatican press Lessard, bishop emeritus of Savan- documented the abuse of minors tah, D-Pa., also helped shepherd the 24 address from Bkerke, north of office and an Irish prelate known nah, Ga., died by some of those priests over the bill through the House. In the Sen- Beirut, Cardinal Rai also extended for revolutionizing the Vatican’s Jan. 3. He was 85, course of many years. Prosecutors ate, lead sponsors were Republican “our best wishes to those who suffer approach to social communication and served the presented evidence to argue that Sens. Orrin Hatch of Utah, Jack Reed from conflicts in Syria, Iraq and the as bishop and adjunct secretary of Boynton Beach Msgr. Lynn endangered the welfare of Rhode Island and Richard Burr Holy Land. We are determined to the Pontifical Council for Culture. seminary for 20 of a boy by failing to supervise his at- or North Carolina and Democratic perform our duty to confront fanati- Greg Burke, senior communica- years. tacker, former priest Edward Avery. Sen. Al Franken of Minnesota. “It is cism, divisions ... and we are keen tions adviser to the Vatican Secre- Bishop Les- Msgr. Lynn was convicted during incredibly timely to reauthorize this to preserve coexistence,” he said. tariat of State, was appointed by the sard was born the trial under the state’s child en- life-giving program during this gift- He reiterated his calls for Lebanon’s pope Dec. 12 as the Vatican’s No. Dec. 21, 1930, in dangerment statute and sentenced giving time of year,” Smith said in political blocs to elect a president “as 2 spokesman. Burke will replace Grafton, N.D. He to three to six years in prison. In its a statement. “Americans willing to soon as possible” to move the coun- Passionist Father Ciro Benedettini, attended the St. Bishop Lessard opinion, the Superior Court said the give the gift of life to others are at the try “from despair and anxiety to who served as the press office as- Paul Seminary in common pleas court under Judge heart of the success of this program. hope and peace.” Lebanon has been sistant director since 1995. Shortly Minnesota before studying theology Sarmina “abused its discretion by In reauthorizing it we are grateful without a president since the term of after the announcement, Father at the Pontifical North American admitting a high volume of unfairly for the adult donors willing to pro- President Michel Sleiman ended in Benedettini was greeted with ap- College in Rome. He was ordained prejudicial other-acts evidence.” vide bone marrow or peripheral May 2014. Under Lebanon’s power- plause by journalists, who thanked a priest Dec. 16, 1956, and remained blood stem cells, as well as mothers sharing system, the post is held by a him for his years of service. Burke, in Rome serving in multiple capaci- Judge: Catholic who donate their child’s cord blood Maronite Catholic. a native of St. Louis and member of ties. through public cord-blood banks.” Opus Dei, previously worked as the In 1973, he was ordained as bish- school Smith also was the author of the Patriarch says Rome correspondent for Fox News op of Savannah, where he shepherd- discriminated 2005 measure. The 2015 bill reau- before his appointment in 2012 as ed until his retirement in 1995. He thorizes funding from fiscal year mercy must include the Vatican senior communica- went to St. Vincent de Paul Regional against man 2016 through fiscal year 2020, with more than kin tions adviser. The pope also named Seminary where he served as a spiri- MILTON, Mass. | A Massachu- $23 million a year for the National Msgr. Paul Tighe, secretary of the tual director and professor of eccle- setts judge ruled that a Catholic high Cord Blood Inventory and $30 mil- JERUSALEM | Latin Patriarch Pontifical Council for Social Com- siology. In a release from the semi- school discriminated against a man lion a year for C.W. Bill Young Cell Fouad Twal said in the Jubilee Year munications, as bishop and adjunct nary, Bishop Lessard was regarded because of his sexual orientation Transplantation program. of Mercy called by Pope Francis that secretary of the Pontifical Council as the “spiritual father on campus” after the school officials rescinded a mercy must include every person — for Culture. Bishop-designate Tighe for both seminarians and the faculty job offer upon learning he was in a Ruling said to both kin and foe. “In these days and told Catholic News Service his reac- alike. “Bishop Lessard will be re- same-sex marriage. Norfolk County time, we suffer from the absence of tion to the appointments was “sur- membered for his quick mind, good Superior Court Judge Douglas H. leave unanswered compassion in our hearts, as if the prise” and “enthusiasm.” “It certain- counsel, and keen sense of humor. Wilkins said in a Dec. 16 ruling that questions coming of Jesus Christ and the mes- ly was unexpected,” he said. “It’s an Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, Fontbonne Academy, an all-girls sage of Christmas were in vain,” he honor but also a responsibility; it’s and let perpetual light shine upon Catholic high school in Milton, had NEW YORK | There are still un- said in his homily at midnight Mass moving onto sacred territory that him,” the release stated. violated the rights of Matthew Bar- answered questions about the le- at the Church of St. Catherine, adja- I’m still now absorbing.” A memorial Mass is scheduled at rett in July 2013 when it rescinded gal implications of June’s Supreme cent to the Church of the Nativity in the seminary Jan. 9 at noon, with a its job offer for him to become food Court same-sex marriage ruling, Bethlehem, West Bank. Pope prays for wake beginning an hour prior at 11 service director because the posi- but analysts agree religious insti- “It is easy to show mercy to those a.m. Bishop Gregory Hartmayer of tion does not include “formally pre- tutions face big challenges in the with whom we are related by blood, Cuban migrants, Savannah will celebrate. The semi- senting the Gospel values or the … months and years to come. The kinship, religion and race. However, peace in Mindanao nary is located at 10701 S. Military teachings of the Catholic Church.” landmark decision in Obergefell v. it is difficult to extend the relation- Trail in Boynton Beach. A funeral Barrett’s lawsuit said the offer was Hodges won’t just ensure that states ship to include the poor and mar- VATICAN CITY | Pope Francis liturgy and burial will be celebrated withdrawn days after he had accept- cannot deny marriage licenses to ginalized, prisoners and the victims asked for prayers and action con- Jan. 12 at noon at the Cathedral of St. ed the position and completed an same-sex couples, said John Breen, of violence and terrorism in Pales- cerning the plight of Cuban mi- John the Baptist in Savannah. employee new hire form on which a law professor at Loyola University tine and in our neighboring coun- grants, a rebel attack in the Philip- In lieu of flowers, donations may he listed his husband, Ed Suplee, Chicago. It could also have a ripple tries,” he said. “Our hearts go out pines, and a deadly gas explosion be made in Bishop Lessard’s mem- as his emergency contact. Barrett effect on the tax-exempt statuses of to the millions of refugees living in in Nigeria. After praying the Sunday ory to St. Vincent de Paul Regional originally filed a complaint with the religious organizations; the rights camps and shanties, suffering from Angelus with visitors gathered in Seminary. For information, call 561- Massachusetts Commission Against of business owners to deny services the biting cold; people fleeing from St. Peter’s Square Dec. 27, the pope 732-4424. Discrimination in January 2014, al- based on religious beliefs; the abil- areas of conflict, many are drifting recalled the many Cuban migrants leging discrimination by the school, ity of religious colleges to deny mar- on vast waters aboard fragile boats, “who find themselves in difficulty in which was founded by the Sisters of ried student housing benefits; the and the sea becoming a collective Central America,” many of whom, noati n St. Joseph of Boston. The case was right of religious organizations to graveyard. Mercy, compassion and he added, “are victims of human moved to Massachusetts Superior hire for mission; the participation benevolence still exist throughout trafficking.” Thousands of Cubans Msgr. Lynn’s Court in May 2014. An attorney with of ministers in civil marriages; the the world. Fortunately, not all peo- are stuck in Costa Rica after Nica- Gay and Lesbian Advocates and De- right of religious adoption agencies ple have lost their humanity.” ragua began preventing them from conviction fenders, or GLAD, represented Bar- to decline to place children with He added mercy is not limited crossing its border in mid-Novem- rett. Fontbonne Academy defended same-sex couples; and much more. to just individual actions and rela- ber. Costa Rica also recently stopped overturned its action, arguing that as a Catholic “It’s not the end; it’s the beginning,” tions, but is all-encompassing. Pa- giving Cubans travel visas. The PHILADELPHIA | The landmark institution it has control of its mis- Breen told Catholic News Service. triarch Twal celebrated midnight number of Cuban nationals seeking trial of Msgr. William Lynn, the first sion and message, and Barrett’s “It will be pushed further. I have no Mass after leading the traditional to immigrate to the United States high-ranking American Catholic same-sex marriage was inconsistent doubt that all of these challenges are procession into Bethlehem and into has risen dramatically since the two churchman convicted of a crime in with that message. The school also coming.” the Church of the Nativity. Dur- countries announced last year the connection with the clergy sexual said that Barrett was aware that all ing Patriarch Twal’s traditional exit start of normalizing relations. In abuse scandal, will play out again employees at the school are asked to from Bethlehem on Christmas Day, his appeal, Pope Francis invited the as Pennsylvania Superior Court further the Catholic message. WORLD his car was hit with stones thrown region to “generously renew all nec- threw out his July 2012 conviction by Palestinians who were demon- essary efforts in order to find a rapid and ordered a new trial. The three- Congress OKs Maronite patriarch strating against Israeli soldiers near solution to this dramatic humani- judge panel said in its 43-page split Rachel’s Tomb, where the convoy tarian disaster.” In a telegram sent opinion Dec. 22 that Common Pleas funding of adult urges coexistence passed by, said Jerusalem Auxiliary the same day, the pope expressed Judge Teresa Sarmina, who presided stem-cell research BEIRUT | Lebanese Cardinal Bishop William Shomali. He said his sadness after hearing about the over the original trial, erred by ad- Bechara Rai urged Christians and he did not believe the stones were “senseless killing of innocent people mitting evidence of sexual abuse WASHINGTON | With bipartisan Muslims to work to preserve peace- thrown intentionally, and there was in Mindanao,” the second-largest is- of minors by priests of the Phila- support in the House and Senate, ful coexistence, and he called for no damage to the cars. land in the Philippines. 13 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016

Scripture You are my beloved; in readings Friday, Jan. 8 1 Jn 5:5-13; Ps 147:12-15, 19-20; Lk 5:12-16 you I am well pleased Saturday, Jan. 9 1 Jn 5:14-21; Ps 149:1-6a, 9b; Jn 3:22-30 Sunday, Jan. 10 esies (Is 11:1-2) that in the future a change their lives to love God and is written in all four Gospels. The Sunday, Jan. 10 The Baptism of the Lord new branch will come forth from humanity — a commitment sym- clouds open and the Holy Spirit of The Baptism of the Lord Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1-4, 9-10; Acts 10:34- the tree of Jesse, meaning that God bolized by John’s water baptism. God descends upon him. God, his 38; Lk 3:15-16, 21-22 will restore the kingdom John was preparing people’s hearts Father, was heard: “This is my be- Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1-4, 9-10; Acts 10:34- of David in a different and and lives to receive the One whom loved Son in whom I take delight.” 38; Lk 3:15-16, 21-22 “I baptize you in the mysterious way. Whoever his baptism could only symbolize. The Spirit has come to anoint name of the Father and this new king/man will be, Now the time of prophesy has Jesus to be more than a politi- Monday, Jan. 11 of the Son and of the Holy he will inaugurate a new come to be fulfilled. John has a new cal human ruler, but the Messiah 1 Sm 1:1-8; Ps 116:12-19; Mk 1:14-20 Spirit. Amen.” These words kingdom for a new Israel visitor inside his group of listeners (anointed one). He will inaugurate combined with the pour- by being anointed with the along the Jordan River. He knows the heavenly kingdom of God, a Tuesday, Jan. 12 ing of water upon us begins Holy Spirit of God. Who the visitor well; it’s his cousin, Je- kingdom community of people 1 Sm 1:9-20; (Ps) 1 Sm 2:1, 4-8; our journey as Christian will this Spirit-anointed sus. As Jesus begins to walk for- from every race, land and language Mk 1:21-28 disciples of Jesus Christ. Sunday Davidic king be? ward to receive John’s baptism, — it is universal. The Greek word In order to appreciate the Word All four Gospels give us John is surprised and humbled. for “universal” is “katholikos,” — in Wednesday, Jan. 13 meaning of our own per- the resounding answer: He says to Jesus, “Do not come to English, “catholic.” sonal baptism, today we Father Jesus of Nazareth. He has me. It is I who need to be baptized What John’s baptism could only 1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20; Ps 40:2, 5, 7-10; celebrate and reflect upon Brian come down from heaven by you” (Mt 3:14). John knows that symbolize, Jesus’ baptism will ac- Mk 1:29-39 the Baptism of Our Lord Je- and come to earth, born the One standing in front of him is tualize because of the firepower sus in the Jordan River. Campbell of Mary, truly becoming more than a family member; it is of the Holy Spirit that he alone can Thursday, Jan. 14 Nearly 700 years before human like us. Before Je- the king/man whom the prophets give. When you and I received holy 1 Sm 4:1-11; Ps 44:10-11, 14-15, 24-25; the birth of Christ, a Jewish prophet sus begins his public ministry of had spoken of, who knows not sin. baptism, we became a part of the Mk 1:40-45 named Isaiah predicted something teaching and healing, he submits Jesus insists on John’s baptism kingdom community, a member of of important meaning to the He- himself to the baptism of his cous- of repentance, even though he had the Catholic (universal) Church of Friday, Jan. 15 brew people. The people of Israel in, John the Baptist. nothing to repent of. For, by plac- Jesus Christ — people journeying 1 Sm 8:4-7, 10-22a; Ps 89:16-19; were living in difficult times. Their John is an intriguing character, ing his divine, sin-free, human foot toward heaven. Each time you and Mk 2:1-12 political world, a kingdom dynasty, fiery in his preaching of repentance in the Jordan River, the Creator of I bless ourselves with holy water, let began with the son of Jesse — Da- from sin. John’s message is clear: If the rivers, seas, springs and lakes us remember this irreplaceable and Saturday, Jan. 16 vid the great ruler. But by the time we are to receive the One whom has blessed the waters of the cos- unrepeatable gift of our baptism. of Isaiah, the family dynasty was God will send to be the Spirit- mic universe to actualize, not just On this feast day of the baptism 1 Sm 9:1-4, 17-19; 10:1a; Ps 21:2-7; Mk 2:13-17 collapsing due to sin and division anointed king, we must first admit symbolize, the forgiveness of sins. of our Spirit-anointed king, may within Israel, and by powerful en- our sins and turn away from them. When Jesus arose from the waters God rekindle in our hearts the fire- Sunday, Jan. 17 emies outside of Israel. Before its The people who believed in John’s of the Jordan, baptized by John, a power of Christian baptism, the gift complete collapse, Isaiah proph- message made a commitment to powerful moment occurred that that keeps on giving. n Is 62:1-5; Ps 96:1-3, 7-10; 1 Cor 12:4-11; Jn 2:1-11

Monday, Jan. 18 1 Sm 15:16-23; Ps 50:8-9, 16b-17, 21, 23; The king and queen of hearts Mk 2:18-22 Tuesday, Jan. 19 Sunday, Jan. 17 serve lighter foods and cheaper you and me who have run out of the waiters, “Do whatever he tells 1 Sm 16:1-13; Ps 89:20-22, 27-28; Is 62:1-5; Ps 96:1-3, 7-10; 1 Cor 12:4-11; wine. Why? Because after every- the goods? Mary does. By saying you.” Jesus will go on to bless large Mk 2:23-28 Jn 2:1-11 one had drunk the good wine, the yes to being the mother of Jesus, jars of water, which were used for odds are high that they won’t re- Mary births God the Son into our Jewish rites of purification. Inter- Wednesday, Jan. 20 Last week we reflected upon the member the quality of the cheaper world. Now she intercedes with her esting, eh? Baptism of the Lord. All four Gos- wine. But something embarrassing beloved son at the party of earthly As the waiters pour out the water 1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51; Ps 144:1b, 2, pels make it clear that the Lord’s happened for our newly minted life to bring salvation to those who from the jars, it turns suddenly into 9-10; Mk 3:1-6 baptism is the point that demar- husband and wife. Early on they have run dry. wine; in fact, the best wine they cates Christ’s first 30 years of life ran out of wine. Ugh, what a party Jesus calls his mother by the had all night. The party has been Thursday, Jan. 21 growing up in Nazareth from the pooper. name that God creates the first saved and goes on without a glitch. St. Agnes, virgin and martyr beginning of his public ministry John places Jesus, his newly perfect female and by the name Jesus begins his public ministry 1 Sm 18:6-9; 19:1-7; Ps 56:2-3, 9-13; that will comprise his last three selected Twelve Apostles and his of the mysterious future female in with a symbolic miracle — that Mk 3:7-12 years of life. Immediately following mother, Mary, at the scene. Who Genesis 3:15, who with her child through the waters of baptism, his baptism in the Jordan River, the would have thought of them as the will be the enemy of Satan. He which he just received, he will pro- Friday, Jan. 22 Gospel of St. John, which we hear party type? And what a party it will calls her “woman.” Interestingly vide a baptism that changes our Day of Prayer for the Legal Protec- from today, uniquely and specifi- soon be! St. John paints a deeply in John’s Gospel, Jesus calls her hearts and lives to something new, tion of Unborn Children cally begins Jesus’ first miracle at theological message here to show “woman” at the beginning of his for a groom and bride whose mar- 1 Sm 24:3-21; Ps 57:2-4, 6, 11; a wedding party. The party takes us how Jesus reveals himself for a public ministry and at the end of riage party never comes to an end. Mk 3:13-19 place in a small town called Cana, ministry that will bring new life to his ministry upon the cross. Call- The mother of the king is queen. not too far away from Jesus’ home- the world. ing a female “woman” today may In today’s Gospel, we encounter Saturday, Jan. 23 town of Nazareth. The Bible is filled with wedding/ have a negative connotation, but a miracle that is a symbol of the Here’s what happened. A young marriage imagery. God often de- back then it was similar to calling marriage of Christ to his bride, the 2 Sm 1:1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27; Ps 80:2-3, Jewish couple got married and scribes his people as a bride. When a female a “lady.” Church. Like the young husband 5-7; Mk 3:20-21 their family hosted a party for God’s people sin against God, God “What does this have to do with and wife in Cana, we ought to look them that was common at the speaks to them as a bride that has me?” he asks her, knowing that the a little more closely to behold the Sunday, Jan. 24 time. Imagine a block party with abandoned her husband. The hus- final revealing of himself will take real king and queen of our hearts. n Neh 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10; Ps 19:8-10, 15; dancing, music, free food and band and wife in Cana represent place at the cross and Resurrec- 1 Cor 12:12-30 or 12:12-14, 27; wine. That would be a pretty pop- you and me. The wine has run tion. “My hour has not yet come.” Father Campbell is a priest of the Lk 1:1-4; 4:14-21 ular block party, eh? The custom out — a symbol that humanity on But Mary knew that it was to be Diocese of Palm Beach and paro- was to serve the best food and wine its own has failed to be faithful the beginning of his journey to the chial vicar at Our Lady Queen of the first. Then afterward, they would to God. Guess who intercedes for cross and Resurrection. She tells Apostles in Royal Palm Beach. Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic CLASSIFIEDS 14

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Diocese of Palm Beach Financial Statement January 2016 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

s we begin this new year of 2016, it is important to take timely recognition of the importance of family in the mission and a moment to reflect upon the many gifts and blessings ministry of the Church. We were indeed blessed by the September that we received in the year just passed. We are visit of our Holy Father, Pope Francis, for the World Meeting of A certainly mindful of God’s many blessings that have Families. It has been the extraordinary generosity of our faith been bestowed on our faith family in this Diocese of Palm Beach. families that has enabled our diocese to continue its strong support A concrete measure of this assessment rests with our annual of Catholic Charities, make a significant investment in the growth examination of the financial results of the administrative offices of of our local seminary, and direct new resources into our family the Diocese of Palm Beach for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015. ministries. We are all one family, experiencing the grace of God and The financial statement information contained herein is sourced sharing our gifts. from the “Report on Audits of Financial Statements,” which was again prepared by the independent accounting firm of Templeton & Again this year, in addition to the actual financial results, we are Company, LLP. The actual audit report was thoroughly reviewed by presenting some supplemental information on the current status of our audit committee and accepted by the diocesan finance council the 2015 DSA campaign by parish, with approximate percentages at its recent December meeting. of DSA goal achieved. In addition, we also present an accounting of the various monthly national collections that are targeted to The financial presentation and information contained in this specific needs identified across the globe. Should you have any publication is not in the same format as the actual auditors’ report. questions or comments regarding this, or any other information For our purposes here, a numerical and graphical summary is contained in this report, I ask that you contact our diocesan finance used to present our financial information, which, over the years, office directly for additional information. We remain committed to has proved to be a clear, meaningful and full accountability and transparency as part of informative method to communicate this our mission. important news. I trust you will find it so once again. We regularly report our financial results I remain deeply grateful for the sacrificial in a supplement to the Palm Beach edition support of our Diocese of Palm Beach. Let of the Florida Catholic and this year, we are us continue to follow the model of our Holy including both this version as well as a copy Family, so that together we share the hope and of the actual auditors’ report on our website salvation of Christ. (www.diocesepb.org). With every prayerful wish, I am I am pleased to report that the fiscal year Sincerely yours in Christ, results of the diocese have been quite positive. Of course, the principle source of funds continues to be the Diocesan Services Appeal (DSA). Our theme this past year was “A Family Most Rev. Gerald M. Barbarito of Faith in Service to Others,” which was a Bishop of Palm Beach Jan. 8-21, 2016 The Florida Catholic Palm Beach Financial statement B2 Statement of Activities, by fund, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 Operating Plant Self-Insurance Eliminating Summary Fund Fund Fund Entries Revenues Diocesan Services Appeal $ 8,735,851 $ — $ — $ — $ 8,735,851 41% Insurance program $ — $ — $ 5,582,686 $ (208,963) $ 5,373,723 25% Contributions and bequests $ 3,282,918 $ — $ — $ — $ 3,282,918 15% Programs and services $ 1,711,352 $ — $ — $ (446,250) $ 1,265,102 6% Net investment return $ 1,325,090 $ — $ — $ — $ 1,325,090 6% Interest and dividends $ 475,795 $ — $ 111,318 $ — $ 587,113 3% Special events, net $ 277,827 $ — $ — $ — $ 277,827 1% Rental income $ 204,000 $ — $ — $ — $ 204,000 1% Cemetery care deposits $ 170,635 $ — $ — $ — $ 170,635 1% Other income, net $ 9,190 $ 28,359 $ 10,031 $ — $ 47,580 1% Totals $ 16,192,658 $ 28,359 $ 5,704,035 $ (655,213) $ 21,269,839 100%

Expenses Program services Social services $ 2,908,740 $ — $ — $ (10,107) $ 2,898,633 14% Diocesan and clergy leadership $ 1,338,470 $ — $ — $ (20,596) $ 1,317,874 6% Education $ 2,655,326 $ — $ — $ (7,403) $ 2,647,923 12% Seminarians, deacons and women religious $ 978,729 $ — $ — $ (11,202) $ 967,527 5% Outreach and mission support $ 1,909,719 $ — $ — $ (84,036) $ 1,825,683 9% Supporting services Self-insurance program $ — $ — $ 3,833,415 $ (446,250) $ 3,387,165 16% Plant and facilities $ 803,493 $ 954,560 $ — $ (52,901) $ 1,705,152 8% Chancery administration $ 2,749,999 $ — $ — $ (22,718) $ 2,727,281 13% Guarantee of indebtedness $ (963,491) $ — $ — $ — $ (963,491) -5% Change in post-employment benefit obligation $ (26,223) $ — $ — $ — $ (26,223) 0% Change in net assets $ 3,837,896 $ (926,201) $ 1,870,620 $ — $ 4,782,315 22% Totals $ 16,192,658 $ 28,359 $ 5,704,035 $ (655,213) $ 21,269,839 100% Statement of Financial Position, by fund, at June 30, 2015

Operating Plant Self-Insurance Eliminating Summary Fund Fund Fund Entries Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 9,103,658 $ — $ 9,655,246 $ — $ 18,758,904 23% Portfolio investments $ 32,698,765 $ — $ — $ — $ 32,698,765 39% Receivables from diocesan entities, net $ 1,960,699 $ — $ 125,800 $ — $ 2,086,499 3% Pledge receivable $ 1,989,088 $ — $ — $ — $ 1,989,088 2% Other receivables $ 17,052 $ 107,211 $ — $ — $ 124,263 1% Other current assets $ 90,274 $ — $ 1,712,963 $ — $ 1,803,237 2% Property and equipment, net $ — $ 25,140,322 $ — $ — $ 25,140,322 30% Due from funds $ 4,881,745 $ — $ — $ (4,881,745) $ — — Totals $ 50,741,281 $ 25,247,533 $ 11,494,009 $ (4,881,745) $ 82,601,078 100%

Liabilities and Net Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 1,873,080 $ 17,520 $ 35,414 $ — $ 1,926,014 2% Self-insurance reserves $ — $ — $ 639,421 $ — $ 639,421 1% Annuities payable $ 100,984 $ — $ — $ — $ 100,984 1% Deferred revenue $ 43,013 $ — $ — $ — $ 43,013 1% Post-employment benefit obligation $ 2,577,279 $ — $ — $ — $ 2,577,279 3% Guarantee of indebtedness reserve $ 4,163,666 $ — $ — $ — $ 4,163,666 5% Net assets $ 41,983,259 $ 20,348,268 $ 10,819,174 $ — $ 73,150,701 87% Due to funds $ — $ 4,881,745 $ — $ (4,881,745) $ — — Totals $ 50,741,281 $ 25,247,533 $ 11,494,009 $ (4,881,745) $ 82,601,078 100%

PLB B3 B3 Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Palm Beach Financial Statement Palm Beach Financial Statement Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic B4

Parochial response to 2015 DSA Statement of Activities, Diocesan Collections The following reflects the goal percentage collected from parishes/missions for for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 July 2014 to June 2015 the annual Diocesan Services Appeal. Revenues Revenues Parish/mission name and city 2015 DSA Goal Diocesan Services Appeal $ 8,735,851 41% Month Collection Funds (as of Dec. 4, 2015) percentage collected Diocesan Services Appeal Interest and dividends Insurance program $ 5,373,723 25% collected title collected Ascension, Boca Raton 100 + Contributions and bequests $ 3,282,918 15% Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens 100 + July Catholic Relief Programs and services $ 1,265,102 6% Insurance program Special events, net $ 112,443 Emmanuel, Delray Beach 92 + 2014 Services Net investment return $ 1,325,090 6% Holy Cross, Indiantown 96 + Church in Latin Interest and dividends $ 587,113 3% Contributions and Rental income August America/ $ 98,209 Holy Cross, Vero Beach 100 + 277,827 bequests 2014 Special events, net $ 1% Church in Africa Holy Family, Port St. Lucie 88 + Rental income $ 204,000 1% Cemetery care deposits September Respect Life / Holy Name of Jesus, West Palm Beach 30 + 170,635 Programs and services $ 102,346 Cemetery care deposits $ 1% 2014 Migrants Holy Redeemer, Palm City 100 + Other income, net $ 47,580 1% September Middle East Holy Spirit, Lantana 100 + Net investment return Other income, net 74,779 Totals $ 21,269,839 100% 2014 Collection Mary Immaculate, West Palm Beach 100 + October World Mission Notre Dame Mission, Fort Pierce 100 + Expenses $ 112,102 2014 Sunday Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, Fellsmere 99 + Program services: Campaign Our Lady of Lourdes, Boca Raton 85 + Social services $ 2,898,633 14% November for Human $ 119,807 2014 Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission, Delray Beach 52 + Diocesan and clergy leadership $ 1,317,874 6% Development Education $ 2,647,923 12% Expenses Our Lady Queen of Peace, Delray Beach 79 + December Retirement Fund Seminarians, deacons and women Social services Self-insurance program $ 191,212 Our Lady Queen of the Apostles, Royal Palm Beach 77 + $ 967,527 5% 2014 for Religious religious Sacred Heart, Lake Worth 60 + Catholic Outreach and mission support $ 1,825,683 9% Diocesan and clergy Plant and facilities January Sacred Heart, Okeechobee 81 + Education $ 148,294 Supporting services: leadership 2015 St. Anastasia, Fort Pierce 92 + Support Self-insurance program $ 3,387,165 16% St. Andrew, Stuart 100 + Chancery administration Education of Plant and facilities $ 1,705,152 8% Education St. Ann, West Palm Beach 100 + March seminarians and Chancery administration $ 2,727,281 13% $ 171,972 Change in net assets 2015 priestly St. Bernadette, Port St. Lucie 92 + Guarantee of indebtedness $ (963,491) -5% Seminarians, deacons and St. Christopher, Hobe Sound 100 + women religious formation Change in post-employment $ (26,223) 0% April Holy Land St. Clare, North Palm Beach 100 + benefit obligation $ 136,290 Outreach and mission 2015 (Good Friday) St. Edward, Palm Beach 100 + Change in net assets $ 4,782,315 22% support April St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Port St. Lucie 79 + Peter’s Pence $ 153,915 Totals $ 21,269,839 100% 2015 St. Francis of Assisi, Riviera Beach 100 + May Nepal St. Helen, Vero Beach 97 + 114,253 2015 Earthquake St. Joan of Arc, Boca Raton 89 + S tatement of Financial Position Assets Catholic St. John Fisher, West Palm Beach 83 + May Communication/ at June 30, 2015 $ 103,858 St. John of the Cross, Vero Beach 99 + Cash and cash Other receivables 2015 Catholic St. John the Evangelist, Boca Raton 95 + Assets equivalents University Cash and cash equivalents $ 18,758,904 23% St. Joseph, Stuart 100 + Black and Indian June St. Jude, Boca Raton 86 + Portfolio investments $ 32,698,765 39% Portfolio investments Other current assets missions/ $ 107,334 Receivables from diocesan 2015 St. Jude, Tequesta 100 + $ 2,086,499 3% Home missions entities, net St. Juliana, West Palm Beach 88 + Pledge receivable $ 1,989,088 2% Receivables from Property and equipment, St. Lucie, Port St. Lucie 99 + Other receivables $ 124,263 1% diocesan entities, net net St. Lucy, Highland Beach 100 + Other current assets $ 1,803,237 2% St. Luke, Palm Springs 80 + It has been the extraordinary Property and equipment, net $ 25,140,322 30% St. Mark, Boynton Beach 93 + Pledge receivable Dues from funds $ — — generosity of our faith families St. Mark the Evangelist, Fort Pierce 100 + Totals $ 82,601,078 100% St. Martin de Porres, Jensen Beach 67 + that has enabled our diocese to St. Mary, Pahokee 100 + Liabilities and Net Assets Liabilities and Net Assets continue its strong support of St. Matthew, Lantana 89 + Accounts payable and $ 1,926,014 2% Catholic Charities, make a significant St. Patrick, Palm Beach Gardens 88 + accrued expenses Accounts payable and Post-employment benefit St. Paul of the Cross, North Palm Beach 100 + Self-insurance reserves $ 639,421 1% accrued expenses obligation investment in the growth of our local St. Peter, Jupiter 100 + Annuities payable $ 100,984 1% seminary, and direct new resources St. Philip Benizi, Belle Glade 100 + Deferred revenue $ 43,013 1% Self-insurance reserves Guarantee of Post-employment benefit St. Rita, Wellington 90 + $ 2,577,279 3% indebtedness reserve into our family ministries. We are all obligation St. Sebastian, Sebastian 69 + Guarantee of indebtedness reserve $ 4,163,666 5% one family, experiencing the grace of St. Therese de Lisieux, Wellington 72 + Annuities payable Net assets Net assets $ 73,150,701 87% St. Thomas More, Boynton Beach 100 + God and sharing our gifts. Dues to funds $ — — St. Vincent Ferrer, Delray Beach 80 + Deferred revenue Totals $ 82,601,078 100% — Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito B3 Florida Catholic Jan. 8-21, 2016 Palm Beach Financial Statement Palm Beach Financial Statement Jan. 8-21, 2016 Florida Catholic B4

Parochial response to 2015 DSA Statement of Activities, Diocesan Collections The following reflects the goal percentage collected from parishes/missions for for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 July 2014 to June 2015 the annual Diocesan Services Appeal. Revenues Revenues Parish/mission name and city 2015 DSA Goal Diocesan Services Appeal $ 8,735,851 41% Month Collection Funds (as of Dec. 4, 2015) percentage collected Diocesan Services Appeal Interest and dividends Insurance program $ 5,373,723 25% collected title collected Ascension, Boca Raton 100 + Contributions and bequests $ 3,282,918 15% Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens 100 + July Catholic Relief Programs and services $ 1,265,102 6% Insurance program Special events, net $ 112,443 Emmanuel, Delray Beach 92 + 2014 Services Net investment return $ 1,325,090 6% Holy Cross, Indiantown 96 + Church in Latin Interest and dividends $ 587,113 3% Contributions and Rental income August America/ $ 98,209 Holy Cross, Vero Beach 100 + 277,827 bequests 2014 Special events, net $ 1% Church in Africa Holy Family, Port St. Lucie 88 + Rental income $ 204,000 1% Cemetery care deposits September Respect Life / Holy Name of Jesus, West Palm Beach 30 + 170,635 Programs and services $ 102,346 Cemetery care deposits $ 1% 2014 Migrants Holy Redeemer, Palm City 100 + Other income, net $ 47,580 1% September Middle East Holy Spirit, Lantana 100 + Net investment return Other income, net 74,779 Totals $ 21,269,839 100% 2014 Collection Mary Immaculate, West Palm Beach 100 + October World Mission Notre Dame Mission, Fort Pierce 100 + Expenses $ 112,102 2014 Sunday Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, Fellsmere 99 + Program services: Campaign Our Lady of Lourdes, Boca Raton 85 + Social services $ 2,898,633 14% November for Human $ 119,807 2014 Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission, Delray Beach 52 + Diocesan and clergy leadership $ 1,317,874 6% Development Education $ 2,647,923 12% Expenses Our Lady Queen of Peace, Delray Beach 79 + December Retirement Fund Seminarians, deacons and women Social services Self-insurance program $ 191,212 Our Lady Queen of the Apostles, Royal Palm Beach 77 + $ 967,527 5% 2014 for Religious religious Sacred Heart, Lake Worth 60 + Catholic Outreach and mission support $ 1,825,683 9% Diocesan and clergy Plant and facilities January Sacred Heart, Okeechobee 81 + Education $ 148,294 Supporting services: leadership 2015 St. Anastasia, Fort Pierce 92 + Support Self-insurance program $ 3,387,165 16% St. Andrew, Stuart 100 + Chancery administration Education of Plant and facilities $ 1,705,152 8% Education St. Ann, West Palm Beach 100 + March seminarians and Chancery administration $ 2,727,281 13% $ 171,972 Change in net assets 2015 priestly St. Bernadette, Port St. Lucie 92 + Guarantee of indebtedness $ (963,491) -5% Seminarians, deacons and St. Christopher, Hobe Sound 100 + women religious formation Change in post-employment $ (26,223) 0% April Holy Land St. Clare, North Palm Beach 100 + benefit obligation $ 136,290 Outreach and mission 2015 (Good Friday) St. Edward, Palm Beach 100 + Change in net assets $ 4,782,315 22% support April St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Port St. Lucie 79 + Peter’s Pence $ 153,915 Totals $ 21,269,839 100% 2015 St. Francis of Assisi, Riviera Beach 100 + May Nepal St. Helen, Vero Beach 97 + 114,253 2015 Earthquake St. Joan of Arc, Boca Raton 89 + S tatement of Financial Position Assets Catholic St. John Fisher, West Palm Beach 83 + May Communication/ at June 30, 2015 $ 103,858 St. John of the Cross, Vero Beach 99 + Cash and cash Other receivables 2015 Catholic St. John the Evangelist, Boca Raton 95 + Assets equivalents University Cash and cash equivalents $ 18,758,904 23% St. Joseph, Stuart 100 + Black and Indian June St. Jude, Boca Raton 86 + Portfolio investments $ 32,698,765 39% Portfolio investments Other current assets missions/ $ 107,334 Receivables from diocesan 2015 St. Jude, Tequesta 100 + $ 2,086,499 3% Home missions entities, net St. Juliana, West Palm Beach 88 + Pledge receivable $ 1,989,088 2% Receivables from Property and equipment, St. Lucie, Port St. Lucie 99 + Other receivables $ 124,263 1% diocesan entities, net net St. Lucy, Highland Beach 100 + Other current assets $ 1,803,237 2% St. Luke, Palm Springs 80 + It has been the extraordinary Property and equipment, net $ 25,140,322 30% St. Mark, Boynton Beach 93 + Pledge receivable Dues from funds $ — — generosity of our faith families St. Mark the Evangelist, Fort Pierce 100 + Totals $ 82,601,078 100% St. Martin de Porres, Jensen Beach 67 + that has enabled our diocese to St. Mary, Pahokee 100 + Liabilities and Net Assets Liabilities and Net Assets continue its strong support of St. Matthew, Lantana 89 + Accounts payable and $ 1,926,014 2% Catholic Charities, make a significant St. Patrick, Palm Beach Gardens 88 + accrued expenses Accounts payable and Post-employment benefit St. Paul of the Cross, North Palm Beach 100 + Self-insurance reserves $ 639,421 1% accrued expenses obligation investment in the growth of our local St. Peter, Jupiter 100 + Annuities payable $ 100,984 1% seminary, and direct new resources St. Philip Benizi, Belle Glade 100 + Deferred revenue $ 43,013 1% Self-insurance reserves Guarantee of Post-employment benefit St. Rita, Wellington 90 + $ 2,577,279 3% indebtedness reserve into our family ministries. We are all obligation St. Sebastian, Sebastian 69 + Guarantee of indebtedness reserve $ 4,163,666 5% one family, experiencing the grace of St. Therese de Lisieux, Wellington 72 + Annuities payable Net assets Net assets $ 73,150,701 87% St. Thomas More, Boynton Beach 100 + God and sharing our gifts. Dues to funds $ — — St. Vincent Ferrer, Delray Beach 80 + Deferred revenue Totals $ 82,601,078 100% — Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito