WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | November 2014 FLORIDACatholic MIAMI ARCHDIOCESE

100 YEARS OF SCHOENSTATT

Left, Father Matias Hualpa, who was ordained earlier this year and discovered his vocation after becoming involved with the Schoenstatt movement in his native Argentina, distributes Communion and blessings during the 100th anniversary Mass Oct. 18 in Homestead. Top, posing with images that they brought to be blessed during the Mass are, from left, Vecki Leitman, Lawrence Leitman, Analise Zea, Bella Leitman and Jose Zea. See story, Page 14. (PHOTOS BY MONICA LAUZURIQUE | FC) Lawsuit threatens parental choice scholarships Program benefits more than 4,500 archdiocesan students

TOM TRACY AND LaSalle High School, also in Miami. to religious institutions. They also ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO Her youngest child, Jasmine, is in claim it violates the mandate that Florida Catholic correspondents the fourth grade at Sts. Peter and the state establish a “uniform … Paul. system of free public schools.” MIAMI | Even though Catholic Gago’s children are getting a But Michael Sheedy, executive home schooling and public educa- Catholic education thanks to the director of the Florida Conference of tion are two viable alternatives to financial aid they receive from Catholic Bishops, which represents Catholic schools, they are options Florida’s Tax Credit Scholarships the bishops in Tallahassee, points that Yvonne Gago would rather not program, better known as Step Up out that “there’s no revenue from consider for her children. for Students. Step Up scholarships the state that funds this program. Gago, a single mother of three currently enable 68,000 students This program is entirely funded by living in Little Havana, moved with from low-income families through- corporate donations.” her father to Florida when she was out the state to attend kindergarten Neither are the scholarships tak- in the seventh grade, transitioning through 12th grade in a participat- ing money from public schools. The from the Chicago public schools to ing private school, be it Catholic, corporate donations go to private Sts. Peter and Paul School in Miami. religious or not. Most of them, like nonprofit organizations such as “It was a whole new world, a to- the Gagos, are children from single- Step Up, who screen the applica- tal shock and a great thing to come parent homes whose incomes are tions, select those who are quali- here,” said Gago, who now teaches far below the poverty level. fied, and then give the money di- Jasmine Gago sits at her desk with her iPad in her fourth-grade prekindergarten at her alma mater. Step Up scholarships are facing a rectly to the schools chosen by the classroom at Sts. Peter and Paul. Jasmine is a recipient of the Step “It was like a home at school, like serious legal challenge, however. In parents. Up scholarship. (MARLENE QUARONI | FC) a family unit, and everyone there late August, the Florida Education “The money never becomes the made sure you got a great educa- Association, Florida School Boards state’s money,” Sheedy said, not to their opposition to the challenge by Alliance for Educational Options tion and that your faith was built up Association and several other par- mention that there is no guarantee signing an online petition. has produced an ad featuring a also.” ties filed a lawsuit, McCall v. Scott, that if it did, the Legislature would “There’s a very real effort under- Jacksonville resident who was able Though it required extreme fi- claiming that the Florida Tax Credit use it to fund public schools. way to get people to see the value of to attend a private school thanks to nancial sacrifices and sometimes Scholarships are unconstitutional. The bishops’ concern is that chil- the program,” said Sheedy, pointing the scholarship program. living paycheck to paycheck, Gago The plaintiffs claim the program dren will be harmed if the program out that the Catholic bishops and In all, 3,278 students in the Arch- managed to put her two sons violates the Blaine Amendment in is ruled unconstitutional. So the Catholic schools are not the only diocese of Miami are receiving Step through Sts. Peter and Paul. Both Florida’s constitution, which pro- conference issued an advisory last ones worried about the lawsuit. of them now attend Immaculata- hibits any state funds from going month urging Floridians to voice The Washington D.C.-based Black PLEASE SEE SCHOOLS, 25 2 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014 Can’t stop learning, can’t stop teaching Nearly 1,200 AWARD PRESENTED Our Lady of Lourdes The teens meet Monday nights for religion teachers confirmation team’s work two-and-a-half hours, from October to earns catechetical award April, to plan the retreat. And the 16 get boost in catechists who make up the confirma- Every year at Our Lady of Lourdes tion team devote an additional 30 Parish in southwestern Miami-Dade both at annual to 60 hours each year to Spirit Day County, more than 300 teens attend preparation. catechetical a Spirit Day retreat as part of their preparation for confirmation. Retreat The team at Our Lady of Lourdes participants come from both the parish has been doing this for about 12 conference school and public and private schools years now, a record of dedication and innovation that earned them the ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO in the neighborhood. The retreat concludes with a Mass attended by 2014 Esperanza Ginoris Award for Florida Catholic staff their parents. “persons or teams who best exemplify the standards of catechetical ministry While the retreat is not unusual, excellence advocated by the Office A catechist wears the T-shirt proclaiming the theme for this year’s SOUTHWEST RANCHES | It its staff sets it apart. The confirmation of Catechesis in the Archdiocese of conference. (PHOTOS BY ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO | FC) is hard to stop a veritable army of retreat itself is run by teens. About 70 Miami.” catechists, nearly 1,200 strong and of them take part each year as both nearly all volunteers. peer team leaders and organizers. Peter Ductram, the office’s director, called their work “an outstanding And that’s a good thing, because “We get kids from our school, example of live catechesis at work in they agreed they can’t stop learn- kids from Belen, kids from Columbus, the lives of many young people.” ing, and they can’t stop teaching. both leading and participating,” said “We all need to learn more and Tony Sierra, a member of the parish Catechist and team member Mercy more and more. Can’t stop,” said confirmation team. “We have kids that Yepez said they were surprised by the Carmelite Sister Isabel Sandino. have been coming back for the past honor. “We were like, what did we do?” The catechist at All Saints Parish four years (to run it) — until they go was a member of that “catechist to college.” army” who attended the 2014 arch- diocesan Catechetical Conference. Held Oct. 25, catechists filled the teaching: That also was the exhor- in Homestead for the trek to south- hallways of Archbishop Edward tation they received from more west Broward. McCarthy High School and the than a dozen speakers at the day- “We bring people from all over church and parish center next door long, bilingual gathering, which for the nation. We’re trying to bring Auxiliary Bishop Peter Baldacchino animatedly leads a workshop at St. Mark. some catechists began long before on “Lumen Gentium,” the Vatican II document on the missionary nature of the Church. Don’t stop learning. Don’t stop dawn, as they boarded minivans PLEASE SEE CONFERENCE, 6 32446-1120 November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 3

Father Kidney M. St. Jean, pastor of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish in Fort Lauderdale, waits for church members to arrive before the start of Pat Gaglinamo, left, is a volunteer and church food pantry Sandy and Leo Stein, longtime members of Our Lady the 40th anniversary Mass and celebration for the coordinator, and Fran Renguso is director of liturgy at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish in Fort Lauderdale, pose for parish, held Oct. 22. Queen of Heaven Parish in Fort Lauderdale. a photo at the 40th anniversary Mass.

OUR LADY QUEEN OF HEAVEN ANNIVERSARY Change, diversity, unity mark 40 years at parish

TOM TRACY Florida Catholic correspondent

NORTH LAUDERDALE | Four decades have brought community changes and new faces to their par- ish, but founding and newer mem- bers alike insist Our Lady Queen of Heaven is still a close-knit commu- nity of friends. Retired nurse AJ Dorrington and her retired pharmacist husband, Donald, fondly remember how they personally installed the first screen on the rectory door years ago, and their three sons all volunteered as altar servers over the years. Father Kidney M. St. Jean, pastor of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish Multiethnic and multilingual choir members at Our Lady Queen of Two of their daughters were also in Fort Lauderdale, proclaims the Gospel during the 40th anniversary Heaven Parish in Fort Lauderdale sing during the 40th anniversary raised here, and all the grandchil- Mass and celebration for the parish, held Oct. 22. Mass. (PHOTOS BY TOM TRACY | FC) dren were subsequently baptized at Our Lady Queen of Heaven, located community with roots throughout community for turning out for the about raising their children here as and come back they say, ‘We just just west of the Florida Turnpike the Americas has found a home event, saying, “Thanks for making the church transitioned from vari- didn’t have the same feeling we had south of Atlantic Boulevard. here in recent years, as evidenced this community what it is today, ous temporary and borrowed spac- when we were here.’ “It has been a wonderful little by the blend of choirs at the cel- and for all of your support, your col- es in the early years to its current “It is a feeling of home and caring church and the Holy Spirit has re- ebration. laboration and all of you who made structure, built in the early 1980s and even though it is very diverse, ally blessed it, especially at Christ- “What unites us is not a common this anniversary what it is. adjacent to the Our Lady Queen of people are trying hard to work to- mastime, when one year our fifth language, ethnicity or national “And from the bottom of my Heaven Cemetery. gether,” Renguso said. child was baptized during a mid- origin,” Archbishop Wenski said. heart I am looking forward to work- “I remember we gathered in a Jose Castanon, coordinator of night Mass (by then-pastor Father “What unites us is Jesus Christ. ing with you to make this commu- fire station, at a Baptist church on Spanish-language lectors, said he Gerald Morris),” AJ Dorrington re- “Our identity is founded on one nity a better one in the Archdiocese Rock Island Road, and my chil- found his way to the parish after called. faith, one baptism, one Lord. In of Miami,” Father St. Jean added. dren made their first Communion moving to Florida from Mexico, Many of the original founding this evening’s second reading, St. The priest told the Florida Cath- in North Lauderdale Elementary and he subsequently had two chil- families joined newer parish mem- Paul tells the gentiles to remem- olic what he really loves about the School. (We gathered at) any place dren baptized at Our Lady Queen of bers, along with Father Kidney St. ber that without Christ, they were parish is “the unity we are having that would take us until our build- Heaven. Jean, pastor, and visiting clergy alienated from the community of between the people because it is a ing was ready.” “This is my community, and from the region Oct. 22 for a Mass Israel, but he tells them and us, you really diverse and united commu- Stein said she remembers fondly although I help lectors elsewhere and 40th anniversary celebration are strangers no longer,” the arch- nity.” the annual parish carnivals and they choose me to be coordinator with Miami Archbishop Thomas bishop said. “We have people from all over how for two consecutive years the of lectors here,” he said. Wenski. In front of the altar, parishioners and sometimes I say it is like the threat of hurricanes shut down a “This is our family, our commu- Lending some perspective, the had placed three framed docu- United Nations, with people from parish festival. nity,” said founding member Janet archbishop, who spoke in three ments commemorating the 40th all over the Caribbean, from ev- “There is something special Reilly, who added she is godmother languages for the multiethnic anniversary, including a blessing erywhere, so it is really a pleasure about Queen of Heaven and I think to five children of one parish family community on hand, said, “Forty from Pope Francis and two other to work with them as a community many people have always said that after she taught the mother in reli- years might not seem too long in a documents: a letter of congratula- and they show that as Catholics we the Holy Spirit is here,” she added. gious education classes. Church that is almost 2,000 years tions from Archbishop Wenski and are one,” Father St. Jean said. Fran Renguso, director of liturgy “I taught CCD for 23 years. We old, but in our archdiocese, which an official proclamation from the Sandy Stein, administrative as- and a parishioner since 1977, called have fun here, and we help each is 56 years old, 40 years is some- city of North Lauderdale. sistant at the parish and a found- the parish a peaceful and happy other,” Reilly said. ”If someone is in thing to celebrate.” Father St. Jean thanked the ing member, attended the event church. “Most people feel comfort- trouble we help each other and we A vibrant Haitian and Hispanic archbishop, clergy and the wider with her husband, Leo. They talked able here, and when people leave help their families.” n 4 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014 Synod on the Family stressed both truth and love Last Month’s Synod on the Fam- for most people and the primary toral practice must reflect doctri- APPOINTMENTS ily was an attempt to “lend an ear vehicle for transmitting the faith nal conviction. It is not ‘merciful’ FLORIDA to the rhythm of our time,” as Pope to future generations, the fam- to tell people lies, as if the Church Archbishop Thomas Wenski has Francis put it. The synod was cer- ily is for Catholics the “domestic had the authority to give anyone made the following appointment: Catholic tainly “extraordinary” — it was Church.” permission to ignore God’s laws.” Effective Oct. 22: ARCHDIOCESE OF MIAMI “extraordinary” because it was a The family today is in crisis: In This means, as St. Paul would Father Daniel Kubala, in resi- prequel to an “ordinary” synod the West, the collapse of the cul- say, “Living the truth in love.” dence, St. Kieran, Miami, in ministry Vol. 76, No. 1 that will take place next tural narrative of mar- Truth and love both are neces- to retired priests year that will also be de- riage means fewer mar- sary, for divorced from truth love 9401 Biscayne Blvd. voted to the family. And, rying and more and more becomes just sentimentality. Miami, FL 33138 it was certainly “extraor- children born into fami- In the discussions during the that fit snugly within the Catho- 305-762-1131 Fax 305-762-1132 dinary” because of the lies lacking necessary Synod on the Family in Rome — es- lic tradition. Those who thought PUBLISHER huge media interest it stability. pecially as reported by the secular that the Synod fathers would ap- Archbishop Thomas Wenski generated. As Synod secretary, media — it seemed to some that a prove changes in Church doctrine That was understand- Cardinal Lorenzo Balder- few bishops were saying that the were disappointed. The bishops DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE Mary Ross Agosta able since it focused on iserri said, “The recovery “problem” was the Gospel. And rejected any pastoral proposal important issues pertain- ARCHBISHOP of the Gospel of the fam- there are those inside and outside which would, in practice, tend to ARCHDIOCESAN EDITOR ing to marriage, family, Thomas ily is key to a more mis- the Church who might have hoped undermine Christ’s teachings on Ana Rodriguez-Soto and sexual morality — sionary Church that can that the Church would change one marriage. [email protected] Wenski 305-762-1131 including those that are walk with contemporary or other of the “hard sayings” of the To those that would suggest that controversial both within people, binding their Gospel. But today our society has a for today’s families the Gospel is and outside the Church. wounds and guiding hard time distinguishing good from the problem, the bishops and the • ADVERTISING: Contact Jane Radetsky at These themes touched on the re- them into the spiritual life.” evil. And so, how would watering pope affirmed that the Gospel of 407-373-0075 or alities that face the majority of The Church is called to live in down the truth help that situation? Jesus Christ is not the problem — [email protected] Catholics and others in their ev- the harmony of mercy and justice, Cardinal Walter Kasper did stir it is the solution. As we deal with eryday lives. the pastoral and doctrinal, work- the waters but the ensuing dis- the messiness (i.e. sinfulness) of • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Susan Chronowski at 1-888-275-9953, or As the Vatican Council taught ing out how to be both compas- cussions produced no changes our lives and the lives of our loved [email protected] 50 years ago, the family is the sionate mother and clear teacher. to pastoral practice. In the end, ones, the solution for our families “school of humanity” (GS, No. 50) As Cardinal Francis George of the Synod issued a series of re- and for ourselves is found in “liv- State Offices:50 E. Robinson St., Suite and, as the locus of spiritual life Chicago recently remarked, “Pas- flections and recommendations ing the truth in love.” n G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Toll-free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: El Sínodo Sobre la Familia enfatizó la verdad y el amor General Manager: Ann Borowski Slade Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez El Sínodo Sobre la Familia del Occidente, el colapso de la narrativa se convierte en simple sentimen- zas de Cristo sobre el matrimonio. Business Manager: Pat Spencer mes pasado tuvo como propósito cultural del matrimonio significa talismo. Para quienes sugieren que, para las Advertising Sales Manager: el “prestar oído al ritmo de nuestro menos casamientos y cada vez más En los debates celebrados du- familias de hoy en día, el Evangelio Jane Radetsky Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro tiempo”, tal como lo señaló el Papa hijos que nacen dentro de familias rante el Sínodo Sobre la Familia es el problema, los obispos y el Papa Social Media/Community Specialist: Francisco. El Sínodo fue sin duda carentes de la estabilidad necesar- en Roma —especialmente según afirmaron que el Evangelio de Je- Michael Carlock “extraordinario”: fue “extraordi- ia. Como secretario del Sínodo, el lo informado por los medios secu- sucristo no es el problema, sino la Advertising Graphic Designer: nario” porque fue una precuela de Cardenal Lorenzo Balderiserri dijo: lares—, a algunos les pareció que solución. Al lidiar con el desorden Michael Jimenez un Sínodo “ordinario” que tendrá “La recuperación del Evangelio de unos cuantos de los obispos decían (es decir, con el pecado) de nuestras Advertising Assistant: Susan Chronowski lugar el próximo año, y que tam- la familia es clave para una Iglesia que el “problema” era el Evangelio. vidas y las vidas de nuestros seres end statewide news releases to news@ bién estará dedicado a la familia. Y, más misionera que pueda caminar Y hay algunos de los que están den- queridos, la solución para nuestras thefloridacatholic.org sin duda, fue “extraordinario” por con la gente contemporánea, cer- tro y fuera de la Iglesia que podrían familias y para nosotros mismos se el enorme interés que generó en rando sus heridas y guiándoles en haber esperado que la Iglesia cam- encuentra en “vivir la verdad en el Our staff meets for prayer each work day at los medios. Esto era comprensible, la vida espiritual”. biaría uno u otro de los “dichos du- amor”. n 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ ya que se centró en importantes La Iglesia está llamada a vivir ros” del Evangelio. Pero hoy en día thefloridacatholic.org cuestiones relativas al matrimonio, en la armonía de la misericordia nuestra sociedad tiene dificultades All contents copyright © 2014, The Florida la familia y la moral sexual, incluy- y la justicia, la pastoral y la doc- para distinguir el bien del mal. Y CORRECTIONS endo aquellas que son controversi- trinal, trabajando de tal manera así, ¿de qué serviría en tal situación Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from In the September 2014 edition, Catholic News Service. ales tanto dentro como fuera de la que sea, a la vez, madre compa- el diluir la verdad? the article, “Kitchen appliances free Iglesia. Estos temas inciden en las siva y maestra precisa. Como el El Cardenal Kasper, en efecto, for the taking,” contained incor- realidades que enfrenta la mayoría Cardenal Francis George, de Chi- agitó las aguas, pero las discusiones rect contact information for Dennis de los católicos y de otras personas cago, comentó recientemente: “La subsiguientes no causaron ningún Joseph of the St. Vincent de Paul en su vida cotidiana. práctica pastoral debe reflejar la cambio en la práctica pastoral. Al Society. The phone number is correct Tal como el Concilio Vaticano II convicción doctrinal. No es ‘mi- final, el Sínodo emitió una serie — 305-588-3032 — but the email enseñó hace 50 años, la familia es sericordioso’ el decir mentiras a de reflexiones y recomendaciones address is [email protected]. la “escuela de la humanidad” (GS nº la gente, como si la Iglesia tuviera que se ajustan perfectamente a la Also in that edition, in the obitu- 50) y, como recinto de la vida espiri- la autoridad para darle permiso a tradición católica. Quienes pensa- ary for Bishop John Nevins, a photo tual para la mayoría de la gente, y alguien para hacer caso omiso de ban que los padres sinodales apro- of Mother Teresa with Bishop Nevins principal vehículo para la transmis- las leyes de Dios”. Esto significa, barían cambios en la doctrina de la was actually taken in 1974, not ión de la fe a las generaciones futu- como decía San Pablo: “Vivir la Iglesia, resultaron decepcionados. 1981 as stated in the caption. At the ras, la familia es, para los católicos, verdad en el amor”. La verdad y el Los obispos rechazaron cualquier time, Bishop Nevins was a Miami la “iglesia doméstica”. La familia se amor son ambos necesarios, pues propuesta pastoral que, en la prácti- monsignor, not yet auxiliary bishop.. encuentra actualmente en crisis: en el amor, divorciado de la verdad, ca, tendiera a socavar las enseñan-

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November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 5 Synod plans becoming reality JONATHAN MARTINEZ been well received by parishioners Florida Catholic correspondent across the archdiocese. “It’s a good thing we had this MIAMI | To be “Disciples in synod to really learn more about Faith, Missionaries of Hope” is the our Church’s calling and inspire us name and guiding principle of the as Catholics towards Jesus Christ,” Strategic Pastoral Plan that resulted said Magalie Genna, a parishioner from the Second General Synod of at St. Mary Cathedral who attended the Archdiocese of Miami, which the synod anniversary Mass. concluded at the end of October Most of the goals and priorities 2013. listed in the Strategic Pastoral Plan On Oct. 26, Archbishop Thomas will continue to be implemented Wenski celebrated a Mass to mark over the next two years and be- the first anniversary of the synod’s yond, so there is still a lot of work to conclusion, during which he high- be done. lighted how some of its recommen- “We have some great people dations are already being imple- and some great ministries at the mented. Archdiocese of Miami. To help to “The hard work of so many dur- centralize them, to help them fit in ing the synod is producing good their mission, to implement these fruits,” the archbishop said during synod goals, we do it all together,” his homily at the Mass, celebrated at said Colella. “All of them help us St. Mary Cathedral. “And much has face the same direction and move been done in the last 12 months.” forward in mission, outreach, dis- Among the accomplishments: cipleship, and to grow individuals, reopening the Office of Youth and the parishes and the Church. It’s Young Adult Ministry; expanding very exciting.” n Catholic Charities into the Florida Keys; coming up with new ways to For more information on the Second ensure the sustainability of Catho- General Synod of the Archdiocese of Archbishop Thomas Wenski, far right, and Father Christopher Marino, rector of St. Mary Cathedral, lic schools; enhancing the deacon Miami, visit www.miamiarch.org/ distribute the Eucharist to those in attendance at the Mass marking the first anniversary of the closing formation program; and supporting synod. of the Second General Synod of the Archdiocese of Miami. (PHOTOS BY JONATHAN MARTINEZ | FC) the continuing education of priests through the “Good Leaders, Good Shepherds” program. “One of the programs we are most excited about is the Why CLASSIFIED ADS Catholic? program,” said Stephen Classified rates: $28 first four lines, $5 each additional line. Colella, newly appointed director of Discount on 3 or more runs. Add a photo for $25. the newly created Office of Evange- lization and Parish Life — another Contact Susan at 1-888-275-9953 or outgrowth of the synod. [email protected] Why Catholic? “helps parishes to start at a very base level of faith for- mation and all go through the same VACATION RENTALS experience,” Colella said. “That’s N.C. GETAWAY, 2,000 SQ FT – Mtn. home w/two creeks, 3 BR/3Ba., cent. heat/AC, fireplace, a great opportunity to have our LR, fam. rm., laundry rm., satellite TV, fully furnished. $700/wk., most seasons. 727-376-1498. parishes be reminded of our faith and to share our faith in smaller groups.” The program has been adopted by 76 of the 105 parishes and mis- sions of the archdiocese. Colella’s office also has been offering work- shops on pastoral planning and will soon begin training parish evange- lization teams. All these programs will have a Advertise in this positive impact on the communi- directory. The next ties they serve, but they are only one deadline is Oct. 13. tool in reaching the ultimate synod goal. “The purpose of the synod was Contact not just to develop new projects or 14875 N.W. 77 Ave. Mike Carlock at new programs, but to initiate a pas- Suite 100 Miami Lakes, FL 33014 1-888- toral revitalization of our archdio- 305-822-2380 cese and its parishes, schools and 954-676-5465 other entities,” Archbishop Wenski 275-9953 Fax: 305-824-0665 or Directories@ said. Referral & Admissions Line He said the actual “program” has 305-351-7124 thefloridacatholic.org been around for a long time: the Toll-free: 1-800-533-3933 Gospel. “The synod was to help us www.CatholicHospice.org Ad sizes/prices: to proclaim the good news about SpecialCare@CatholicHospice. Magalie Genna, parishioner at St. Mary Cathedral, smiles during $87 for 1.9”x2”, $174 Jesus Christ more effectively and the Mass marking the first anniversary of the closing of the Second org coherently, in other words, more General Synod of the Archdiocese of Miami. Genna said she felt the Serving People of All Faiths Since 1988 for 1.9”x4” or 3.9”x2” fruitfully,” the archbishop said. synod was achieving its purpose to “inspire us as Catholics towards The message of revitalization has Jesus.” 6 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014

CONFERENCE Beach; and Amparo Martinez, who spent 16 years as a volunteer cat- FROM 2 echist at St. Joachim in southern Miami-Dade before taking a paid position as director of catechesis at the best people so they can learn, St. Kevin Parish in Miami. so they can expand their horizons What motivates such dedication? as catechists, so they can teach “My love for the Lord,” Martinez the children,” said Franciscan Sis- said. “I’m a very blessed woman. I ter Maria Elena Larrea, a member owe him a lot. That’s what kept me of the archdiocesan committee of going. One day at a time. That’s the catechists that helped the Office of only way you can do the ministry.” Catechesis plan the conference. Seated next to her, fellow honor- “That’s the commitment that ee Lydia Mayorga agreed. She has they made. They want to plant the been director of religious education seeds so the new generation will at her parish, St. Catherine of Siena be strong and faithful Catholics,” in Kendall, for the past 16 years. added Sister Larrea, director of “Sometimes you don’t see the parish ministry and co-director of outcome of what you are working religious education at Little Flower so hard for,” Mayorga said. “But you Parish in Hollywood. have to think that you are doing this Models of that commitment for something else, another dimen- Archbishop Thomas Wenski poses with the winners of this year’s Lifetime Catechetical Leadership Award, filled the front pews of St. Mark sion that is not the human one. It is from left, Sister Clementina Givens, Regina Medina, Leyda Vazquez, Lydia Mayorga, Amparo Martinez at the morning Mass that kicked frustrating at times and challeng- and Nanette Salvatore-Willis, daughter of the late Lorraine Salvatore. (PHOTOS BY ANA RODRIGUEZ- off the conference: the innovative ing.” SOTO | FC) confirmation team at Our Lady of But, she added, “The Lord gives Lourdes Parish in Kendall, who you the energy. Otherwise, there’s “If I am a baptized person, I have echoed the motto of the recent Auxiliary Bishop Peter Baldacchi- received the Esperanza Ginoris no way.” no identity outside of who I am in archdiocesan synod, “Disciples in no, who taught one of the breakout Award for excellence in catechesis; Her words were echoed by Eng- Christ,” said Paradise. “In him I Faith, Missionaries of Hope.” sessions at the conference. Using and seven “extraordinary” women lish-language keynote speaker have everything. My whole life is “Are your hearts on fire?” Arch- plain language and examples from who were honored with the Life- JoAnn Paradise, national consul- immersed — as those waters of bishop Thomas Wenski asked in the Bible as well as Greek mytholo- time Catechetical Leadership tant for Our Sunday Visitor’s Cur- baptism remind us — into the very his homily to the catechists. “Well, gy, he impressed upon his listeners award for their many years of ser- riculum Division. She compared being of Jesus Christ.” spread the fire — the fire of God’s the four characteristics of the “good vice to the ministry. faith in Christ to the love-fueled The catechist’s role, then, is that love.” news” of Jesus Christ: urgent, worth Among them were Sister Clem- union between husband and wife: of matchmaker. But he reminded them that “the dying for, of great value, and not de- entina Givens of the Oblate Sisters Just as the sacrament of marriage “You can teach what a disciple days are long over when ‘Father pendent on the quality of life of the of Providence, who at 93 continues turns two into one, baptism liter- looks like and acts like but they’re said …’ or ‘Teacher said …’ could proclaimer. to work as director of religious edu- ally immerses people into the body not going to be a disciple until they end an argument.” The bishop’s animated teaching cation at St. Patrick Parish in Miami of Christ. fall in love,” Paradise said, adding And at any rate, arguments are matched the excitement Peter Duc- that “staying in love is an intention- not going to convert anyone. tram sensed among the catechists. al choice.” “To bring people into the “People are excited,” said the di- And who is a disciple? “A disciple Church, we need to meet them, be- rector of the Office of Catechesis. is someone who chooses Christ, friend them, listen to them, accom- “The thing I heard is that we have so who chooses a relationship with pany them and evangelize them,” much talent in Miami. And they are him. And once you do that, the the archbishop said. “But those seeing it now through our talks.” Church says you become a mis- eyes will need to see witnesses and Not to mention the honorees, sionary,” Paradise said, echoing not just authorities. If they’re going whose decades of service impressed the theme of this year’s conference, to listen to your talk, they must first the out-of-town speakers, Ductram

31907-1120 “Missionary Disciples of Hope: Set- see you walk.” said. “(That) is rare in other parts of ting Hearts on Fire.” That, in turn, Another exhortation came from the nation.” n

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MASPONS FUNERAL HOMES A family tradition for four generations Miami-Coral Gables Westchester 3500 SW 8th St. 7895 SW 40th St. 30343-1120 Archbishop Thomas Wenski poses with the Our Lady of Lourdes confirmation team, winners of this MASPONS Funeral director: Eric Maspons-Rivero year’s Esperanza Ginoris Award for excellence in catechesis, in recognition of their innovative Spirit Day retreat for teens. November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 7 ‘Dedicated servants’ inspired in their vocations LAURA DODSON Florida Catholic correspondent

FORT LAUDERDALE | For Diane Tugander, the Council of Catholic Women isn’t just an or- ganization. It is a gathering of sisters who support one another while serving the community. Tugander, president-elect of the Florida Council of Catholic Women, joined the council in Mi- ami in 1985. Her husband passed away two years later, leaving her to raise their three daughters alone. “I don’t know what I would have done without my council sisters. They carried me through Josephine Gilbert, past president of the Miami Archdiocesan Council Rosi Schumacher, left, FCCW president from Orlando, congratulates those years after he passed and of Catholic Women, walks up during the Our Lady of Good Counsel Jan Shiplett from Pensacola-Tallahassee, winner of the Our Lady of helped me to establish my identi- luncheon to receive a $185 raffle prize. (MARLENE QUARONI | FC) Good Counsel award. ty and use my gifts to give back to my council, my community and sacola-Tallahassee and Corinne my parish,” she said during the Steinbauer was recognized post- 21st biennial conference of the humously for her lifelong com- state council, which she chaired. mitment to CCW. She added her role in chairing Steinbauer was honored for the conference served as a fit- her work including past province ting culmination to her career in president from Miami, PGA golf council as a working woman. tournament chair, friend of the “I understand the plight of seminary, devoted wife for 52 working full time and still main- years and mother to four children taining council,” she said. “I must with eight grandchildren. The thank the women of the Archdio- award was presented to her hus- cese of Miami. Without their help band and family who each briefly the conference wouldn’t have shared a memory. been as flawless as it was.” “She is being recognized for The conference, “Women of her devotion to CCW, and this Faith — Sharing His Love,” fo- Dottie Harouff of Pensacola was her number one love,” said cused on God’s call in our every- prays at the start of the Our Lady her husband, Jack. day lives expressed as vocation. of Good Counsel luncheon, part Oldest daughter Corinne Stein- Held at the Westin Fort Lauder- of the Florida Council of Catholic bauer described her mother as a dale Oct. 23-26, participants Women’s biennial convention. “wonderful mom who taught came from all seven Florida dio- me how to give back with faith.” ceses accompanied by the priests vor. “Daily we pray to deepen And daughter Cherie Parker said, who are their spiritual advis- our faith and keep our marriage “She was my first teacher, always ers. Archbishop Thomas Wen- strong,” she said. listening and a giver of great ad- ski of Miami and Bishop Gregory Wife and mother Marie Gal- vice. She taught us to think of Parkes of Pensacola-Tallahassee lo-Lethcoe, director of mission others first.” Daughter-in–law also attended. effectiveness at Father Lopez Jodi Steinbauer provided the high “It’s never been easy to be a An FCCW member staffs the Women Helping Women table during Catholic High School in Daytona compliment, “She treated me like woman in the Church,” Arch- the Florida Council of Catholic Women’s biennial convention in Fort Beach, spoke on vocation of the a daughter,” and granddaughter bishop Wenski said. “Despite the Lauderdale Oct. 23-26. person. She cited three specific Erica said, “We called her Nanny. challenges, you have been in the ways: vocation to a lifestyle (sin- It’s just great that she’s been rec- Church, of the Church and with of the Lord; that leads them to so- A familiar face of the council, gle, married, religious, parent, ognized.” the Church. Thank you for all you cial justice and action; that leads Mary E. “Winkie” LeFils, spoke friend); vocation to work (in fam- Tugander will take the presi- do in our parishes, dioceses, in them to prayer for vocations and about marriage as a vocation. ilies, as volunteers, as employ- dential reigns from Rosi Schuh- all of Florida. Keep up the good support of their priests,” Father Married 61 years to her husband, ees); and vocation to living out macher, president of the Florida work.” Greer said of the women. Donald, she served as the young- the faith (discipleship). council, who began her council Ann Cubillas is the president of Florida State Sen. Rene Garcia est president of national council. “A vocation is the calling of an career at Christ the King Parish the Miami Archdiocesan Council was the first speaker to address She is the mother of nine chil- individual by God to a way of life in Miami in 1978. of Catholic Women. She led the the vocation of work. He has dren, has 22 grandchildren and at which the center is God,” she “I am overwhelmed and many affiliations that made the served in office since 1997 when 26 great-grandchildren. said. “Discipleship is the most blessed by these women of faith convention such a success. She at age 23, he was elected to the “A man and a woman establish important vocation — seeing who share his love, because I be- joined the council in 2008 at the Hialeah City Council. He is well- between themselves a lifetime others as Christ,” she continued. lieve if we do everything with his urging of “an Emmaus sister.” recognized as an advocate for the partnership,” LeFils said. “The “We are called to be holy, to be love, everything has to come out “Within two meetings they voiceless and most vulnerable. Holy Spirit is the seal of their cov- Eucharist, to live a sacramental right,” Schuhmacher said. asked me to run for president “The women of CCW are the enant and by its nature the voca- life so we can be sustained and Tugander will be installed as and it’s been fun from there,” cornerstones of our communities tion of marriage is good.” go out to live his kingdom so all FCCW president at the national Cubillas said. “The convention and our faith and keep us going,” As with so many families, people have the possibility of liv- convention in September 2015. has been highly spiritual for all Garcia said. “If it wasn’t for our LeFils spoke about blessings and ing to their full potential. When “I will officially retire from of us.” mothers and our wives, we don’t challenges. The family suffered we continue to walk with our teaching two weeks before, and Father Michael Greer, pastor of know where we would be. … Why the the loss of their first child and God, this is our vocation.” my goal as president is to go out Assumption Parish in Fort Lau- do we struggle our whole lives to a granddaughter. One son was A highlight of the conference and be among the women,” she derdale and spiritual adviser for get more things when we should married only four months when was the presentation of the Our said. “I’d like to get to see them the Miami Archdiocese council, be helping one another? I just he became a quadriplegic. His Lady of Good Counsel Awards. other than at their conventions offered a welcome to the partici- believe in doing the right thing wife cared for him for 33 years This year two women were se- and be not just a name for all the pants. and helping those who can’t help until his death. And her hus- lected: Jan Shiplett is an active diocesan presidents, but I would “They are dedicated servants themselves.” band, Donald, is a cancer survi- member in the Diocese of Pen- like to be a presence.” n 8 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014 An experience that helps save families

FYI a home where English is spoken Encuentros more than Spanish — and their Encuentros Familiares in way of thinking and problems re- Familiares English and Spanish, as well as late more to the American culture specifically for single parents, are than the Hispanic one.” retreats for parents offered three times a year. The Just as more than 6,000 parents movement hosts a program every and children have taken part in the and children now Wednesday at 5 p.m. on the archdi- Spanish retreats so far, he expects ocesan station, Radio Paz 830 AM. similar numbers will eventually offered in English For more information, go to www. benefit from the English-language ceimiami.org. RAÚL LEÓN version. La Voz Católica correspondent The two-day retreats feature separate tracks for parents and English speaking families.” their children, during which four MIAMI | As the recent extraor- She was referring to Jesuit Father fundamental themes are discussed: dinary Synod on the Family noted, Florentino Azcoitia, who started • Encountering myself, which family life is on a downward spiral. the retreats in 1971 and served as includes learning to recognize so- Divorce, cohabitation, the genera- spiritual adviser until his death in cietal masks and forgive oneself. Pedro and Marisol Diaz have taken part in Encuentros Familiares for tion gap and the absence of reli- 2010. After being exiled from Cuba • The sacrament of matrimony, 12 years. They say the retreats have help them mature as a couple gious faith are both symptoms and in the early 1960s, he dedicated his where issues such as lack of com- and given them the tools to be better parents. (PHOTOS BY ANA causes of familial disintegration. priesthood to helping struggling munication, jealousy, alcoholism, RODRIGUEZ-SOTO | FC) But since 1971, parents and chil- immigrants — initially Cuban ex- domestic violence and other symp- dren in the Archdiocese of Miami iles — to build holy and healthy toms of “spiritual divorce” are dis- have had a weapon with which to families. He wanted to give couples cussed. wage war against those worldly the tools to strengthen their mar- • Encountering our children, trends: Encuentros Familiares riages and communicate better where the topics revolve around (Family Encounters), a weekend re- with their children. the generational conflicts between treat for parents and their children, Today, the encounters are open family members, including differ- ages 12 to 21. to all families, including couples ences in how parents and children Before 2014, Encuentros Famili- who are married only civilly or not were raised. ares was offered only in Spanish. at all, those who are divorced and • Family encounter with Christ, But this September, the second remarried, and single parents. which stresses that through faith English-language retreat took place The first encounter for English- and conversion, all other aspects alongside retreat 309 in Spanish. speaking families took place this of family life find purpose and The first English-language retreat past February, in the same place strength. was held in February. where the retreats have been held The children analyze similar Among the facilitators for the for decades: Casa Manresa, the re- themes in an age-appropriate way, English-language encounter were treat facility on the grounds of the in order to learn how to relate better Jorge and Any Tere Diaz, who have Ignatian Spirituality Center, locat- with their parents and siblings. A participated in the retreats since ed on the corner of Miller Road and panel composed of two sets of par- the 1970s. In fact, they met at one. Southwest 122 Avenue in Miami. ents and a priest is always on hand Now they are volunteering as lead- The spiritual advisers to both the to answer any questions or con- Jorge and Any Tere Diaz met at an Encuentro Familiar in the early ers for the English-language re- English and Spanish-language re- cerns brought up by the children. 1970s, married, attended with their own children, and now are taking treats. treats continue to be Jesuit priests: Afterward, participants con- a leadership role with the English-language version. “In these last 30 years of mar- Father Marcelino Garcia for the tinue their formation by attend- riage, participating in Encuentros English-speaking and Father Pedro ing weekly classes on Wednesday retreats for “preparing and guid- and he helps them bridge whatever Familiares has helped us in the ups Gonzalez-Llorente for the Spanish- evenings. The classes are taught by ing us through the difficult task of division or communication gap and downs that we have had, and speaking. psychologists and other specialists being husband and wife as well as might arise. we admit that were it not for these Father Garcia explained that the who delve deeper into the topics parents. Here we have acquired the And that is the ultimate reason retreats we would not be here to- need for English-language retreats touched upon at the retreat. necessary tools to reach the matu- for the retreats: to foster not only day,” said Any Tere Diaz. “Every- arose “from the children of families Pedro and Marisol Sequeiro, rity of matrimony; we have learned learning and discussion but an en- thing that Father Azcoitia shared that immigrated to Florida more who along with their children have what it is to have children,” she said. counter with God, who embraces with us has helped so much. We than 40 or 50 years ago and who participated in Encuentros Famili- More importantly, she added, participants with his love, his peace want to extend this legacy to other have formed their own homes — ares for the last 12 years, credit the Christ is now part of their family, and his forgiveness. n

Pictured are all of the participants at Encuentros Familiares retreat 309 in Spanish and 2 in English, held at the end of September at Casa Manresa, on the grounds of the Ignatian Spirituality Center in Miami. November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 9

DOCTORS’ RX: BE CATHOLIC Local health care professionals launch Miami branch of Catholic Medical Association MARLENE QUARONI FYI Florida Catholic correspondent White Masses this weekend MIAMI | University of Miami medical student Aaron Patzwahl Two White Masses in thanksgiv- promises to stick to his Catholic ing for the lives of persons with values in his future medical prac- special needs will be celebrated tice. Saturday, Nov. 22, in the archdio- “Today’s culture challenges cese: one at St. Anthony Church, your faith,” said Patzwahl, one Fort Lauderdale, and the other at St. of several medical professionals Patrick Church, Miami Beach, both and students who attended the at 5 p.m. Look for photos and cover- inaugural White Mass of the Mi- age on the archdiocesan website, ami Guild of the Catholic Medi- www.miamiarch.org. cal Association. The Mass was celebrated Oct. 12 at St. Mary Ca- thedral. The name White Mass recalls The guild currently has about the smocks traditionally worn by 25 members and is hoping to doctors and nurses, said Arch- grow in numbers. bishop Thomas Wenski, main The medical profession runs in celebrant of the Mass. St. Luke, Victoria Faucheux’s family. She is whose feast day is Oct. 18, is the a registered nurse who is study- patron saint of doctors. The arch- ing at South University in West bishop called the healing profes- Palm Beach to become a nurse sions “a beautiful gift,” in spite of practitioner. Her husband, Jason the very real challenges which Faucheux, a Nova Southeastern Catholic medical professionals University medical student, came face today. to the Mass with her, as did Vic- “Catholic doctors who refuse to toria’s mother, a doctor in New Leaders of the newly created Miami Guild of the Catholic Medical Association pose for a photo after go along with the prevailing cul- Orleans. Mass. From left are Dr. Marina Matute Obispo, pediatrician, representative for women in health care; ture are being called to witness to Victoria Faucheux represents Dr. Julio Barcena, cardiologist, guild treasurer; Victoria Faucheux, R.N., representative for health care their faith within their profession those in the guild’s allied medical professionals; Dr. Norman Ruiz Castaneda, pediatrician and permanent deacon at Epiphany Parish, in the face of ridicule, the loss of professions. She said that part of guild secretary; Father Scott Francis Binet, M.D., guild president; Dr. Jose Martinez, cardiologist, guild professional advancement and the problem with today’s health vice president; Father Alfred Cioffi, guild chaplain; and Aaron Patzwohl, University of Miami medical increasing limitations on their care system is that there are not student, representing medical students. freedom to serve in accordance enough medical professionals. with their consciences,” said the “The world needs more people archbishop. to enter the profession,” she said. Father Scott Francis Binet, 50, “Especially, those going into fam- a medical doctor and the guild’s ily practice, even though certain 10-Day Saints of Spain president, called its establish- specialties pay much more mon- ment a hallmark event in the ey.” Archdiocese of Miami. Father Archbishop Wenski had ad- Binet came up with the idea of dressed the Catholic Medical Pilgrimage a chapter in Miami, discussed it Association in Orlando Sept. 20, with other Catholic doctors and at the conclusion of their annual then presented it to the arch- convention. Celebrating the 500 Anniversary of bishop. In that talk, he quoted both St. June Teresa of Avila and following The Way to “This is a place for Catholic John Paul II and Pope Emeritus medical professionals and stu- Benedict XVI, who cautioned that Santiago de Compostela (St. James). dents to gather together, support “a society lacks solid foundations 11–21 No tour offers such meaning and value. each other and help the commu- when, on the one hand, it asserts nity. Another goal is to possibly values such as the dignity of the Experience Spain in a way that is not possible on your own. go on mission trips,” said Father person, justice and peace, but Binet, a family practitioner at then on the other hand, radically Father Hoyer Miami Rescue Mission who has acts to the contrary by allowing served the poor and those struck or tolerating a variety of ways in by disasters worldwide. which human life is devalued Although Catholic guilds exist and violated, especially where it in northwest Florida, north cen- is weak or marginalized.” Toledo, Ancient Capital of Spain, St. Ignatius of Loyola, Conversion Chapel, Zaragoza, Virgin tral Florida, Orlando and Palm He said these same sentiments Tour del Pilar, Castle of Javier, St. Francisco Javier, Madrid, Salamanca and Alcazar, Burgos and Beach, Miami until now did not are echoed by Pope Francis when HigHligHts Cathedral, San Sebastian’s fishing coastal village, Monasterio de la Encarnacion in Avila. have its own guild. he condemns a culture that Daily Masses in the company of two priests, Round-trip airfare on regularly scheduled flights, Superior and first class “We applied to the National would “exclude and throw away hotels with private bath, Expert tour guides and deluxe bus driver services, Breakfast and dinner daily, Comprehensive Catholic Medical Association the weakest and poorest among sightseeing program, All entrance fees, local taxes all inclusive, With company of a great group of people. which gave us a charter,” said us.” n Father Alfred Cioffi, the guild’s Cost: $3,989 all inclusive per person, double occupancy, based on the airline availability and the airline current estimate of fuel charges and taxes and subject to currency fluxuations. chaplain. Father Cioffi teaches For more information on Miami’s bioethics at St. Thomas Univer- Catholic medical guild, email sity in Miami Gardens and has [email protected]. For information and complete itinerary: 32667-1120 degrees in moral theology and Altura Tours • Tour Directors: 1-800-242-4122 Father Hoyer • St. Gregory the Great: 954-854-0079 genetics. 10 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014 Have you heard of the Miraculous Medal? This Thanksgiving falls the day before the Church celebrates Thanksgiving is and the feast day of the saint who gave us the popular medal Nov. 27, and three ere is a French language lesson for you: Ô Marie, con- days later — on Sunday, Nov. 30 — Catholics celebrate the be- çue sans péché, priez pour nous qui avons re- ginning of the Advent season, a time of preparation for the cel- Hcours à vous. In English, that phrase translates to: “O ebration of Christmas and Jesus’ birth. In order to prepare, let’s Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us take the time to ask some questions about giving thanks. who have recourse to thee.” And those are the words transcribed — in French, Question 1: What are you thankful for? English and other languages — upon a Miraculous Medal, which you can see at o ahead. Don’t be shy. different perspective. For instance, right. The medal reminds those who wear Make a list. Did you do it? you have an iPod and you might be it of the miracle of the Immaculate Concep- GAlright, now be honest: Is thankful for it because you like mu- tion. The Vatican’s website explains that Pope the first item on your list something sic. Great. Now keep going. Think Pius IX proclaimed in 1854: “The most Blessed you own? A material possession? beyond the materialism. Virgin Mary was, from the first moment of Like your filled-to-the-gig-capacity • You are able to listen to music her conception, by a singular grace and MP3 player or iPod; your computer because of your sense of hearing. privilege of almighty God and by virtue or tablet with lightning-fast speed Give thanks to God for that gift. of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of the and awesome graphics; an exten- • Music relaxes you, and you live human race, preserved immune from all sive collection of DVDs or books or in a place where you can freely es- stain of original sin.” action figures or toys; your car; your cape in your own thoughts in peace. So what about this Miraculous Medal? favorite pair of pricey jeans? Give thanks to God for the shelter I’m glad you asked. There was a young Hey, this is America — the mate- you have and a country with free- woman who became a consecrated religious rial world. But does it have to be? doms. in France. Her name was Catherine Labouré and No. It doesn’t. Yes, you are im- • An iPod is a luxury, and you are she lived from 1806 to 1876. The daughter of a poor farmer, mersed in a society that pushes you able to have it because your basic she joined the Sisters of Charity at the age of 14. to get the latest and the greatest. But needs were met. Give thanks for par- Ten years later, at the age of 24, the young novice had vi- what separates us as Catholics is how ents who give you food and shelter. sions of Mary while in the chapel located at 140 Rue du Bac in we respond to the material world. • Think of all the stuff you read Paris. She recalled how Mary stood upon a globe as her feet And that goes with giving thanks. online and on a tablet. You have the crushed a serpent. Beams of light stream from her hands like Think of those material items ability to read. Give thanks to God rays of grace, and 12 stars encircle her head. you love. There are obvious material for your teachers and education. Catherine heard the Blessed Mother say, “Have a medal reasons you are thankful for them. Now, write that list again. Has it struck after this model. Those who wear it will receive great But think about that object from a changed at all for the better? graces, especially if they wear it around their neck.” During a third apparition with Mary, Catherine was given the mission to make the medal, and share it with the youths of the world, Question 2: What makes you complain? bidding them to serve the poor. e all are not saints, and luxury so many people in the world After investigations into the apparitions, the medal was neither are the people don’t have. Give thanks to God for made and was officially known as the medal of the Immacu- Wwe live with or work having the ability to feed yourself. late Conception. At right is with or go to school with. Am I right? But even in your school there an article from the Florida And sometimes things just annoy might be people who are going hun- Catholic archives from Dec. us. Like you’re trying to get into the gry. If you think that might be hap- 26, 1947, that talks about the lunch room before your 20-minute pening, think about sharing a meal medal’s more popular name. lunch is over and you are stuck be- with that person. Pope Pius XII canonized This window from St. Catherine hind a throng of people who have And as far as that door goes: St. Catherine Labouré in 1947. Labouré Parish in St. Louis depicts no concept of opening BOTH doors Just open it with a smile and pass Her feast day is celebrated the apparition of Mary, which is the to the lunchroom. Or you’re at home through it. Opening a door creates Nov. 28, which is the day after inspiration of the Miraculous Medal in the bathroom and you reach for opportunities for you and those we celebrate Thanksgiving in (PHOTO COURTESY OF MINTHY some toilet paper only to find some- around you. the United States this year. NGUYEN) one used it all up! So that brings us to the toilet pa- Little things like that can really per. It was your sibling, wasn’t it? Or bother you and you end up saying, maybe your mom or dad? You prob- “Seriously?!!” while your blood ably know exactly who because they How do you give thanks? thank you pressure gets higher (and you’re too do it every ... single ... time. God for my young to think about that). Well, isn’t that like a gift? You Why not try a spiritual bouquet or pressed flowers family; they So what can you do about it? Once know someone so well, you know love me for again, think about it from another their foibles and their strengths. ere is an activity you can do with friends and family that gets who I am perspective. Think positive. You’re not alone in this world, and to the heart of all the gifts God has given you. Take the lunchroom door. You that is a blessing. So give thanks for Remember those three questions you read on the left- H are entering a place where there is your family, and just replace the toi- hand side of the page? Well, now is your chance to gather up all your thank you food to nourish your body. That is a let paper roll with a smile. thanks and create a centerpiece for the Thanksgiving table, or God for my health and I thank you God make homemade “pressed flowers” to put in your family Bible. for food hope mom’s Go online to www.thefloridacatholic.org and click on the Kids’ gets better. to eat. Question 3: What have you learned? Page button to download a page of flowers. There are color versions, Mason, 11-25-14 like the ones at right, or versions that you could color yourself. ven when we get stressed Our role as Catholics is to preserve You can write messages of thanks on the large flowers. Whatever you or bummed about some- the dignity of all people and serve want. You might want to put your name and the date on the WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG thing, we need to focus those less fortunate. stem of the flower. Once you have written E November 2012 By Jorge, 11-22-14 on how blessed we are to have so This Advent season, you could all your messages of thanks, you can cut out Challenge yourself. Think of a material item — your filled-to-the-gig-capacity MP3 player or any other high tech device; your computer with lightning fast speed and think, “Why I am really thankful for it?” many gifts from God. With all our create a spiritual bouquet of blessings awesome graphics; an extensive collection of DVDs or Here’s an example — you have an iPod, and you the flowers and attach them to a poster board books or coins or action figures or toys; your car; your might be thankful for it because you like music. Great. • An iPod is a luxury, and you are able to have it because your basic needs (food and shelter) were favorite pair of expensive jeans — it can be anything. Now keep going. Think beyond the materialism. met. Now, take off all the adjectives and think about the item • Listening to music... You can use your sense of and what makes it so special to you? Yes, it might be hearing. What a gift that is. OK, now your turn. Use the chart below to mark gifts, giving thanks to God is a no- (see the idea at right). Or you could • Music relaxes you. And you live in a place where what you are thankful for and reasons why. to make a spiritual bouquet, or you can leave the latest and greatest, but put that thought aside and you can use my mind to freely to escape in your own Now, if you can only think of the possession in a thoughts in peace. materialistic way, ask yourself: “Do I really need this Item item in my life?” brainer. journal how you identify the spiri- What I am really thankful for is... them on paper and use them as your own per-

And when we give thanks, we tual blessings within the material sonal “pressed flowers.” Just put the flowers in Tamara, 11-28-14 might feel humbled and called to world. Go online to www.theflorida the your family Bible, maybe on a page that be “Beatitude people” — to follow catholic.org and download a journal contains a message or verse you love. (You those eight teachings of Jesus found companion that helps you do just could even find the Beatitudes in Matthew, Can we find the good out of things that might not seem OK, you thought about positive things about positive items. Now think of something positive out of “not-so-positive” things or situations. Confused? I am thankful for ... so great? in Matthew’s Gospel (Chapter 5). that. the parking spot at the far Chapter 5.) OK, here are some examples: side of the lot because I have the ability to walk. I am thankful for ... Your turn. Think of five things or situations that I am though it smells, I know itmy makes brother’s him happy. pet turtle. Even might not seem positive, but when you really think thankful for... about it, really reminds you of something for which to be grateful. because ... November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 11 Black Catholics: ‘A major part of the Church’ Mass at Notre Dame d’Haiti kicks off celebration of Black Catholic History Month

MARLENE QUARONI Florida Catholic correspondent

MIAMI | About a quarter of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics are black, said Msgr. Chanel Jeanty during a Mass that kicked off the 24th annual Black Catholic His- tory Month celebration at Notre Dame d’Haiti Mission. “We are a major part of the Church,” said the Haitian-Ameri- can priest. “There are 270 million black Catholics worldwide, with 3 million of that number in the United States.” The Mass, celebrated Nov. 1, coincided with the feast day of St. Martin de Porres, a 19th-century Peruvian who became the patron saint of black Catholics. Notre Dame d’Haiti is the heart of the Haitian black community in the Archdiocese of Miami. “Black Catholics and all blacks have endured suffering and deg- radation,” said Msgr. Jeanty, pas- Msgr. Chanel Jeanty, back row left; Wilhemina King, left; Bernadette Johnson, center; and Katrenia Reeves-Jackman join seminarians tor at the predominantly black St. for a photo after the Mass Nov. 1 that kicked off Black Catholic History Month for members of the archdiocesan Black Catholic Ministry. Philip Neri Parish in Miami Gar- (PHOTOS BY MARLENE QUARONI | FC) dens. He is also the chancellor for canonical affairs in the archdio- discrimination again. It’s taken a Father Augustine Tolton, the first where the former slave had es- Catholic Ministry, plus the Praise cese. long time to get to where we are black priest in the U.S. “Father caped with his family. He met and Worship Dancers from Holy “We all know the struggles of today. This celebration is an op- Gus, as he was known, made a Father Peter McGirr, an Irish- Redeemer. black people from slavery to seg- portunity to show the richness of black priest like myself proud,” he American priest who allowed Eight black seminarians from regation,” Msgr. Jeanty continued. our roots.” said. him to study at his parish school St. John Vianney College Semi- “This celebration says that we will Msgr. Jeanty urged the congre- Father Tolton’s journey to the despite objections from parish- nary attended the Mass in soli- not forget and we will not tolerate gation to look to trailblazers like priesthood began in Quincy, Ill., ioners. darity with the Black Catholic He wanted to become a priest Ministry. Their ancestry included but was rejected by every semi- countries such as Haiti, Ghana, nary to which he applied. Father Honduras and Nigeria. McGirr intervened and enabled In an introduction to the lit- Father Tolton to study in Rome, urgy, Black Catholic Ministry where he was ordained in 1886. member Jerome Matthews said “Father Tolton said that he the congregation gathered to re- experienced as a priest, for the dedicate as well as to celebrate. first time, what it meant to be “We remember the storms of our a dignified man,” said Msgr. coming to this land, the darkness Jeanty. of our despair,” he said. “We re- The new priest expected to be member our mothers and fathers assigned to an African mission, of faith, of blood, of blackness.” but he was sent back to the U.S. to The ministry will celebrate serve the black community. He led another Mass at the end of Black the development and administra- Catholic History Month, Nov. 30, tion of the black “national parish” noon, at St. Helen Parish, 3033 of St. Monica in Chicago. Because N.W. 33rd Ave., Lauderdale Lakes. of his achievements, a move to During the Mass, the ministry canonize Father Tolton is under- will present the St. Martin de Por- way. res awards for excellence. Sister Concelebrating the Mass with Clementina Givens of the Oblate Msgr. Jeanty were Father Reginald Sisters of Providence will receive Jean-Mary, administrator of Notre a Lifetime Achievement Award at Dame d’Haiti Mission, and Father the Mass. n Alexander Ekechukwu, pastor of Holy Redeemer Parish in Liberty For information on other events, City. contact Katrenia Reeves-Jack- Holy Redeemer Church Praise and Worship dancers perform during a Mass Nov. 1 that kicked off Black Also participating were the man at blackcatholicministry@ Catholic History Month. Gospel Mass Choir from the Black theadom.org or 305-762-1120. 12 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014 Obituaries Sister Conleth Brannan, 87 them develop skills for indepen- dren, whether they’re hearing or ministry dated back to 1972, when Joseph J. Schott Jr. took an ‘Soul’ of Schott dent living while creating an en- not, to the church here because when she met the late Father Vi- interest in the ministry and of- vironment of caring that upholds they remember her,” Roukas tucci, who had begun celebrat- fered to build or buy a multipur- Communities, she their human dignity. said. ing Masses in sign language and pose center for persons who are “This was very “She was con- organizing social and religious deaf. Eight months later, Father had ministered to much her life,” stantly learning, events for the deaf. At the time, Vitucci and Sister Brannan found said Mary Roukas, of the hearing- Sister Brannan was teaching a property in unincorporated deaf and disabled a mental health impaired, co- at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Broward County (now Cooper counselor who chlear implants, School in Cutler Bay, having City) which Schott purchased directs Schott’s how to work with come here after two decades of and deeded to the archdiocese. for 40 years programs, group the children. And teaching first- and second-grad- The center now includes a resi- home and resi- then other dis- ers at parish schools in Altoona- dential community for the deaf dences. She first abilities came into Johnstown, Pa., Pittsburg, and and disabled as well as St. Jude STAFF REPORT met Sister Bran- the picture so she Columbus, Ohio. Chapel, where the disabled and nan 34 years ago, learned how to do In 1978, she and Father Vitucci their families gather for Sunday MIAMI | The deaf and dis- when her daugh- that also. And she were asked to serve as the prima- Mass. The Schott Center also of- abled of Schott Communities ter, who is deaf, taught to the end,” ry ministers and archdiocesan fers weekday programs, includ- paused Nov. 16 to pay tribute to was 4. Roukas added. representatives to persons who ing art classes and religious edu- Sister Conleth “Connie” Bran- Roukas volun- Sister Conleth Schott Commu- are deaf. Sister Brannan spent cation, for the deaf and disabled, nan, a Sister of St. Joseph who teered to join the “Connie” Brannan, nities honored Sis- three consecutive summers in regardless of their faith tradition. co-founded the Schott center weekly caravan ter Brannan with Washington, D.C., studying sign One of 11 children and the el- and dedicated her last 40 years — led by Sister Brannan and an their Heroes Award in 2012, the language at Gallaudet Universi- dest of four girls, Sister Brannan of ministry to working with the archdiocesan priest, Father Jim 40th anniversary of her involve- ty, a school chartered to educate said she knew at age 6 that she deaf and disabled in South Flor- Vitucci — that traveled from ment in the ministry. She had the deaf and hard of hearing. wanted to become a religious. ida. parish to parish each weekend, been the soul of the center since it They began their work as trav- “I wanted to be a Sister of St. Jo- Sister Brannan died Nov. 9 at between Homestead and West opened its doors in 1986, serving eling ministers, giving retreats seph like the one who was teach- her community’s motherhouse Palm Beach, teaching religious as teacher, director, organizer, in- to the deaf and working out of ing me. She was doing very good in Baden, Pa., where she had re- education in sign language. terpreter, extraordinary minister the trunk of a car. things for people and I wanted to tired in 2012. She was 87 and had “I would use her as a men- of holy Communion and pastoral “I first started retreat ministry do that, too.” been a member of the Sisters of tor because I had no teaching caregiver. with her 34 years ago. She was an She heeded her calling, and at St. Joseph for 69 years. background. She would give me Even after officially retiring incredible lady and sister,” said age 17 she joined the community The tribute came during the the coaxing, the motivation, the from full-time ministry, Sister Father Jeff McCormick, pastor of in Baden. A funeral Mass was Schott center’s regular 9:30 a.m. mentoring,” Roukas said. Brannan remained involved with St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in celebrated Nov. 12 in the chapel Mass at St. Jude Chapel on the “She was a spitfire,” she add- the deaf and disabled. She lived Pembroke Pines, who often cel- of the sisters’ motherhouse, with grounds of Schott Communities, ed, and so good at connecting on the Schott campus until her ebrates Sunday Mass at Schott burial following in the cemetery 6591 S. Flamingo Road in Cooper with children that many of those move to the motherhouse in 2012, Communities. on the motherhouse grounds. City. she taught decades ago still re- and helped organize the Craft- “Sister Connie was a vital part Donations in Sister Brannan’s Schott Communities is an out- member the Bible stories and ers, a ladies’ arts and crafts group of getting Schott Memorial off name may be sent to the Sisters reach of the Archdiocese of Mi- lessons they learned from her. who use their talents to raise the ground,” Father McCormick of St. Joseph Memorial Fund, St. ami to people who are deaf and “They remember her to today funds for Schott Communities noted in a 2012 interview. Joseph Convent, 1020 State St., disabled. Schott’s programs help and they bring their own chil- Her involvement with the That process began in 1985, Baden, PA 15005. n Marianist Father Daniel Doyle, 77 received the Blessed Chaminade inade-Madonna Facebook page. and was ordained a priest July 4, Served for 47 years at Chaminade- Founders’ Award and the Alumni Peter Mineo wrote: “44 years 1967. In addition to studying with Appreciation Award. ago Father Dan was my Bible the Marianists in Dayton, Ohio, Madonna High School, Nativity Parish He also worked closely with the teacher. I fondly he had degrees archdiocese’s Catholic Charis- remember his from the Univer- matic Renewal. kind and loving sity of Fribourg in STAFF REPORT had been a Marianist for 59 years “He started the first prayer and spiritual na- Switzerland, the and a priest for 47. meeting down here,” said Jim ture, which I got to University of Notre HOLLYWOOD | Alumni of He arrived at the all-boys Horvath, who with his wife, Mary, know during one Dame in Indiana, Chaminade-Madonna College Chaminade High School (which coordinates the English-speaking of my encounters. and Regis College Prep and parishioners at Na- later merged with the all-girls Ma- Charismatic groups in the arch- I know we have in Toronto. tivity Church here bid farewell donna Academy) just after his or- diocese. been taught to pray Father Doyle Nov. 8, to Father Daniel Doyle, a dination in 1967. For four decades “We’ve known him since about for the departed was buried Nov. 12 Marianist who spent nearly his he served the Marianist-owned 1973. We’ve been working with and I will do that at Holy Rood Cem- entire priesthood serving at the school as teacher, president, chap- him for years,” Jim Horvath said. but I am confident etery in Westbury, parish and its next-door neigh- lain, campus minister and mem- “Whenever we’d have a confer- that the only way Long Island, N.Y., bor. ber of the board of trustees. ence he’d be there. He had a prayer he is not in heaven site of the former Father Doyle, 77, died Oct. 29 “For 40 years, Father Doyle was meeting there at Chaminade all is if it does not ex- New York Province after a period of failing health. He an essential building block for the time, every Tuesday. He was ist. For the class of Father Daniel Doyle of the Marianists. C-M,” said Kandi Osman, alumni involved in everything.” 74 RIP Father Dan! Contributions relations and special events coor- Father Doyle’s biographical All of those who knew you in the may be made in his memory to dinator at Chaminade-Madonna. profile for his golden jubilee as a past 50 years have been given a the Father Dan Doyle Chami- One of Chaminade-Madonna’s religious in 2005 also noted that gift from the Lord.” nade-Madonna Endowment for five “houses” — a grouping of stu- he was chaplain to Hollywood’s Father Doyle was born March Student Tuition Assistance, c/o

30537-1120 dents from each of the four grade Police Department. 24, 1937, in New York City. He took Chaminade-Madonna College levels — is named Doyle House Former students posted trib- his first vows as a Marianist Sept. Preparatory, 500 E. Chaminade in his honor. Father Doyle also utes to Father Doyle on the Cham- 8, 1955, final vows Aug. 15, 1960, Drive, Hollywood, FL 33021.n November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org ADVERTISEMENT 13 32314-1120 14 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014 ‘Schoenstatt means a beautiful place’ Worldwide Marian movement’s Miami devotees celebrate 100 years since its foundation

ROCÍO GRANADOS La Voz Católica staff

HOMESTEAD | Valeria Serrano is not an official member of the Schoenstatt movement. But she is very devoted to its patroness. Priests from throughout the archdiocese concelebrate the 100th “We love the little Virgin very anniversary Mass for the Schoenstatt movement. At left are Father much, we always pray to her,” Ser- Elvis Gonzalez and Father Matias Hualpa. Father Hualpa discovered rano said. “She came to our home his vocation through his association with the Schoenstatt movement when we needed her most and she in his native Argentina. gave us much peace. That is why we are here.” brought the little Virgin, who visits “Today is a day of great joy and Serrano, accompanied by her the home of the sick. From that day thanksgiving for the Schoenstatt husband and two sons, was one of she has stayed in our home. We ask communities,” said Archbishop hundreds of devotees of Our Lady for many blessings and we always Wenski in his homily. “Today we of Schoenstatt who gathered at her pray to her. We have a lot of faith give thanks that through the work of Homestead shrine Oct. 18, to mark that one day (my daughter) will be Schoenstatt communities through- the 100th anniversary of the move- completely cured,” Serrano added. out the entire world — and here as ment’s foundation. The daylong festivities began well in the Archdiocese of Miami She said she learned about early in the morning at the Home- — a great harvest of souls has been Schoenstatt in April, when a mis- stead shrine, with a rosary led by gathered for the Lord. I ask God to sionary approached her mother in children. Later, Archbishop Thom- grant you perseverance in your ef- Vecki Leitman holds a Marian image that she brought to be blessed the church where she was praying as Wenski celebrated a Mass ac- forts to spread the Gospel, to Jesus, after the Mass Oct. 18 at the Homestead shrine, marking the 100th for Serrano’s daughter. companied by retired Bishops Fer- through Mary. Charity unites us. anniversary of the Schoenstatt movement. (PHOTOS BY MONICA “She found her sad and discon- nando Isern of Pueblo, Colo., and LAUZURIQUE | FC) solate. She approached us and Lorenzo Leon of Huacho, Peru. PLEASE SEE MARIAN, 19

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Archbishop Thomas Wenski poses with the 10 outstanding women from across the archdiocese who were honored for their work, dedication and commitment to the Catholic Church with the first-ever Women of Faith awards luncheon, held Oct. 26 at Turnberry Isle Hotel in Aventura. From left are Winifred Amaturo, Sally Russomanno, Barbara Romani, Marie Ludwick (seated), Ada Armas, Marile Lopez, Christina Wells, Carol Ann Coyle, Swanee DiMare and Jacqueline De Souza. Proceeds from the event will support Catholic education locally. (TOM TRACY | FC)

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WOMEN FROM 16

special role in the Church; it has been that way since the very be- ginning,” Archbishop Wenski said, quoting St. John Paul II, who wrote in his 1995 letter to women: “Thank you every woman for the simple fact of being a woman; you enrich the world’s understanding and help make human relations more honest and authentic.” “I hope this event will become an institution in the archdio- cese,” the archbishop said. Jacqueline and Robin De Souza of St. John Neumann Parish The 10 Women of Faith award in Miami attend the inaugural Women of Faith event. The Presenters Katie Blanco Crocquet of the Archdiocese of Miami and recipients are: Beatriz Canals, left, help honor 10 outstanding women from across Archdiocese of Miami honored Jacqueline De Souza and nine • Barbara Romani of Our Lady other outstanding women for their work, dedication and the archdiocese for their work, dedication and commitment to the commitment to the Catholic Church. (TOM TRACY | FC) of Guadalupe Parish in Doral: Catholic Church with the first-ever Women of Faith awards luncheon, Nominated for the virtue of faith held Oct. 26 at Turnberry Isle Hotel in Aventura. (TOM TRACY | FC) whose corresponding patron is St. Faith. Romani was among the ments, and cafeteria upgrade first new families to register at projects and chairing the Hall of Women of Faith are her parish where she still plays Fame annual event. Recently, Di- a very active role. She is an lay Mare was inducted into the high ecclesial minister, a member of school’s Hall of Fame, and is an ‘women of action’ the pastoral council, and chair- active community volunteer woman of the finance council. In with local nonprofits including TOM TRACY to the Church at the first-ever 2008, Romani received the arch- Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gar- Florida Catholic correspondent “Women of Faith” awards lun- diocese’s highest honor, the Pri- dens. cheon, held Oct. 26. mum Regnum Dei award. • Christina Wells a student AVENTURA | Jacqueline De Several of the honorees spoke • Marie Ludwick of St. Paul of Archbishop Edward McCar- Souza, reflecting on her Women privately about their Catho- the Apostle Parish in Lighthouse thy High School in Southwest of Faith award recognition, re- lic values and how their own Point: Her virtue is grace and her Ranches: Nominated for the called growing up in Jamaica charitable involvements started patrons i Our Lady of Grace. Lud- virtue of youth, whose patron is and how her father — a product many years ago, in some cases wick was a choir member at St. St. Maria Goretti. Three years of Jesuit education there — kept in their youth. Paul for more than 20 years, and ago, Wells created the Hugs for the family close to the Church The youngest honoree, Chris- has been a stalwart contributor the Homebound ministry, en- Each Women of Faith honoree and Catholic education. tina Wells, a senior at Arch- to all the parish’s fundraising couraging student teams to visit was presented with a religious “My dad was always involved bishop Edward McCarthy High efforts, most notably the ABCD 45 homebound members of her medallion noting the particular in the Church and we often had School and member of St. Greg- (Archbishop’s Charities and De- parish, St. Gregory in Plantation. saint and saintly quality for Jesuit priests coming to our ory Parish in Plantation, saw a velopment). She was also very ac- She also established an endowed which they were being honored. home. They were almost a part need for a scholarship endow- tive in charitable and Church or- scholarship fund for Archbishop of the family and so it was com- ment at her high school. So last ganizations in the New York area McCarthy High School, which 15 private units for dispossessed mon for us to be interacting with year she created a program, and before moving to Florida. raised $7,500 its first year. Wells families with children. priests,” said De Souza, a long- a recent golf tournament helped • Carol Ann Coyle of St. Greg- has also been an altar server and • Marile Lopez of Sts. Peter time member of St. John Neu- bring the endowment up to ory Parish in Plantation: Nomi- lector for the Sunday night teen and Paul Parish in Miami: Nom- mann Parish in Miami. “My dad $35,000. nated for the virtue of humility, Mass at St. Gregory. inated for the virtue of charity, has been a great influence.” “I was really passionate about her patron is St. Anthony. Coyle • Wini Amaturo of St. John whose patron is St. Vincent de Over 20 years at St. John Neu- that,” said Wells, who gave cred- has spent more than two de- the Baptist Parish in Fort Lau- Paul. She is a mother of five and mann, De Souza took a leader- it to her grade school and her cades volunteering at St. Gregory derdale: Nominated for the vir- has supported both Sts. Peter ship role in the parish Women’s family for forming her values. School, organizing, planning and tue of wisdom, whose patron is and Paul School and Immac- Club, where she served as presi- “I knew that there was a pro- implementing activities for the St. Sofia. Amaturo and her hus- ulata-La Salle High School, as dent. She took other lay ministry gram like that at St. Gregory students. Other activities have band established both the Ama- wells a Msgr. Edward Pace High roles including extraordinary School so that the school was included the parish walkathon, turo Family Foundation and School in Miami Gardens, where minister of holy Communion able to support families going golf tournament and grand auc- Joseph and Winifred Amaturo she is establishing a scholarship and religious education instruc- through a hard time; if there was tion. She is a founding member Education Foundation, through program. She also serves in a tor. She raised two daughters an illness, for example. I knew of the Crusader’s Circle, a ma- which they support many local leadership role with the Florida who both attended the parish that there was a need at my high jor fundraising effort to support charities that serve Catholic pro- chapter of the Catholic Associa- school. school based on some of the church renovation. grams, education and children tion of Latino Leaders (CALL). “My children are very con- people I know there,” she said. • Sally Russomanno of St. in need. This year, she is excited • Jacqueline De Souza of St. fident in responding to people Three years ago, Wells also Louis Parish in Pinecrest: Nomi- about introducing Catholic stu- John Neumann Parish in Mi- about what they believe in and created St. Gregory’s Hugs for nated for the virtue of love, her dents to Junior Achievement of ami: Nominated for the virtue what they don’t believe in, and the Homebound ministry, en- patrons i St. Valentine. Rus- South Florida, a high school pro- of motherhood, whose patron is the difference between pro-life couraging student teams to visit somanno has been a volunteer gram that strives to help students the Virgin Mary. From her family and pro-choice,” De Souza told 45 homebound members of the for more than 20 years, serving develop and encourages their in Jamaica, De Souza learned to the Florida Catholic. parish. Wells has also been an as a classroom teacher, religious continued education. help the local nuns make hosts “It is important to show you altar server and lector for the education teacher and spiritual • Ada Armas of Epiphany Par- for the Mass, and with the guid- can still be a wife and mother, Sunday night teen Mass. leader. Currently, she leads the ishn i Miami, for the virtue of ance of her father graduated and work and still be involved Marile Lopez of Sts. Peter Little Disciples Program at St. compassion, whose patron is St. from Immaculate Conception in the Church, while laying the and Paul Parish in Miami, and Louis Covenant School and also Francis of Assisi. Armas chairs High School in Kingston. She has foundation for your kids, mak- her husband, Jorge Luis Lopez, teaches religious education to the board of directors of the attended Emmaus retreats, mar- ing sure that as future Catho- raised five children, three of first-graders. Leadership Learning Center at riage enrichment weekends and lics and future leaders they are whom still attend the parish • Swanee DiMare of St. Hugh St. John Bosco Parish in Miami, Lifen i the Spirit seminars. She growing in their faith,” she said. school. Marile Lopez has been Parish in Coconut Grove: Nomi- an after-school program for ele- has been involved in parish re- Archbishop Thomas Wen- involved in a number of educa- nated for the virtue of radiance, mentary and middle school chil- ligious education, as an extraor- ski honored De Souza and nine tion and technology projects her patron is St. Lucy. Her ser- drenn i Little Havana. She also dinary minister of holy Commu- other outstanding women from at Sts. Peter and Paul School as vice to Archbishop Curley Notre volunteers with Catholic Chari- nion, and served as treasurer and across the region for their work, Dame Prep includes supporting ties’ New Life Family Shelter, a president of the Women’s Club. n dedication and commitment PLEASE SEE ACTION, 18 technology, capital improve- transitional housing shelter with 18 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014

Community Business Directory ACTION member and religious education Marie Ludwick, who has been FROM 17 teacher for 27 years at St. Louis at St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Parish in Pinecrest. She has been Lighthouse Point for 22 years. She teaching preschool for 18 years at was a member of the choir and a ATTORNEY TAX PREPARATION St. Louis Covenant School. longtime supporter of charities well as many other charitable ac- Faith and Church, she said, are associated with the Archdiocese Vincent J. Owoc, P.A. tivities in the wider community. a family tradition: Her husband of Miami. Before that, she was a Attorney at Law* The Tax Clinic LLC Roxana Medina, C.P.A. “As parents of five we under- Herman Russomanno is a past member of the Ladies of Charity • Probate • Real Estate • Wills stand the importance of educa- chair of the board of trustees and of New York. • Trusts • Business Law • Income tax preparation and representation tion and in particular a Catholic an adjunct law professor of the “God is the only power in my • Foreclosure Solutions • Personal and small business education,” Lopez said, adding School of Law at St. Thomas Uni- life and faith is something I de- 4801 S. University Drive • Bookkeeping and payroll services that her husband went to Msgr. versity in Miami Gardens. pend upon every day, and I turn Suite 203 • Notary Public Edward Pace High School, where “The reason they chose me for my life and will over to him and Davie, FL 33328 13899 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 311 954-680-8000 he will be inducted into the Hall the Women of Faith award was ap- I leave it in his hands,” Ludwick North Miami Beach, FL 33181 Fax: 954-680-6241 of Fame this year for a scholarship parently for the love I have given said, adding that she has lived in 305-759-2803 [email protected] program he supports there. The to these children for over 27 years: Toronto, Maine, New York and [email protected] *Florida Bar Board Certified Lopez family also supports edu- I love their innocence, their wide Florida. “My faith is the strongest St. Martha parishioner in Real Property Law cational programs at Immacula- eyes, and their expression when thing in my life.” ta-La Salle High School in Miami. you teach them something new,” Wini Amaturo, of St. John the “We are also part of the Miami Russomanno said, adding that her Baptist Parish in Fort Lauderdale chapter of the Catholic Asso- two adult sons attended school is a mother of five who has been DENTIST To advertise in this directory, ciation of Latino Leaders (CALL) there. “The students give back promoting reading skills and please email with 15 local members who show tenfold to me and I hope I can con- Catholic education through fam- Gloria Alvareztorre, D.M.D. the involvement we Latins have in tinue teaching for many years.” ily foundations that she and her • Pediatric • General • Cosmetic directories@thefloridacatholic. our faith,” she said. One of the senior members of husband Joseph oversee; that in- • Endo • Implant • Orthodontist • Bleaching • Invisalign org or call Mike Carlock at Sally Russomanno has been a the Women of Faith honorees is cludes an advanced reading pro- • Family oriented gram impacting 6,000 students in • Most dental plans accepted 1-888-275-9953 Broward County and at St. Mary, • Major credit cards and Care Credit Star of the Sea Parish in Key West. 11645 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 406 Join the “Catholic education is a jewel North Miami, FL 33181 Florida Catholic in the crown of the Church, and 757 41st St. Business and I have always loved to read — it’s Miami Beach, FL 33140 a special thing to pick up a book,” 305-892-1515 Professional Amaturo said. Fax: 305-893-0886 Network She added that the average [email protected] on LinkedIn.com number of books read by local children in the advanced reading The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon program is now 41 books above ad vertise ments. Before you decide, ask an attorney to send you free written information and beyond the required reading about his or her qualifications and experience. at school. “The impact has been that marks are through the roof,” she said. “Each child has read the St. Brendan High School student Mariana Ramirez speaks at the books and then answers ques- Women of Faith awards luncheon that honored 10 outstanding tions on the computer so that the women from across the Archdiocese of Miami for their work, teacher is able to see their com- dedication and commitment to the Catholic Church. prehension level.” n ONe Price FuNerals NatiONal FuNeral HOmes

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MARIAN through welcoming, educating and sending forth. FROM 14 “Our s end i not to stay in Mary but to get closer to God our Father, Your mission is, always, the cov- to Jesus Christ, to live his teach- enant of love.” ings, to be better Christians, to do Among the archdiocesan priests what our founder said: ‘to form a concelebrating the Mass was re- new man for a new community,’ cently ordained Father Matias someone who puts God at the cen- Hualpa, who discovered his voca- ter of his life and in that way pro- tion after joining the Schoenstatt gressively transforms the commu- movement in his native Argentina. nity where he lives,” said Asanza. “We have been preparing for The key to that transformation is four years to get to this day, re- the Covenant of Love which mem- membering what Father (Joseph) bers make. Kentenich, along with his congre- The covenant “is a commitment, gation, did over 100 years ago, and a pact with the Virgin, where she our love of the Virgin, obviously,” gives us her heart and we give her Schoenstatt devotees take part in the 100th anniversary Mass Oct. 18 said Father Hualpa, who celebrat- our heart, so that she can trans- on the grounds of the shrine in Homestead. (PHOTOS BY MONICA ed f one o his first Masses after form it, so that we can have, receive LAUZURIQUE | FC) ordination this May at the Home- and transmit love,” said Gladys stead shrine. Cristancho, a member for 30 years. All the Schoenstatt shrines re- of growth in personal holiness, After the Oct. 18 Mass, mem- She learned about the movement semble the original one in Germa- holiness of the family, holiness Kathy Asanza, one of the bers of the movement presented in Atlanta, where her mother ny. Father Kentenich wanted all of of children. Of course, physical founders of the Schoenstatt Archbishop Wenski with the Cross founded it, and made her covenant them to be the same “so when you miracles also occur,” Asanza said, movement in Miami, takes part of o Unity, t thank him for his pres- in Milwaukee, the U.S. headquar- enter a shrine, you feel at home; it “because nothing is impossible for in the 100th anniversary Mass. ence and also because his birthday ters of the movement. is a place that you recognize, with God.” n fell on the same day. “It is a deep consecration with minimal variations: the altar, the The Schoenstatt faithful came the Virgin to be lived out the rest of building’s frame, everything is the from as far as Hollywood, Pem- your life,” Cristancho said. “I came same,” said Asanza. broke Pines and Weston, and as to n live i Miami to be close to the A traveling image of Our Lady of near as Kendall. sanctuary. I arrived, providential- Schoenstatt visits homes, schools, “Since I saw the eyes of Mary I ly, when they broke ground.” jails, hospitals and the sick; peo- felt that she was calling me,” said There are more than 200 affili- ple commit to receive her every Lila Philip, a native of India who ated shrines throughout the world, month. joined the movement in 2011. including1 1 in the U.S. The one in “Miracles are not physical. In She came to the celebration with Homestead is the only one in South Schoenstatt there is an emphasis friends from her parish, Our Lady Florida. on the miracle of transformation, of Lourdes in Kendall, where she has been a member for more than 18 years. Kathy Asanza is one of the SABRE WAY foundersf o the movement in Mi- ami and a coordinator for the 100th anniversary festivities. “(This) is a family party, beautiful and happy, filled with appreciation for every- thing that God and the Virgin have given us,” she said. “Schoenstatt means ‘beautiful place.’ Little by little this is becoming a beauti- ful place. We are growing little by little.” Father Joseph Kentenich, a Ger- man priest, and a group of young seminarians founded the Schoen- statt movement Oct. 18, 1914, at the beginning of World War I. The name is derived from the aban- doned chapel in Germany where they first gathered. It is now the St. Brendan High School has received the honor of having a portion original shrine, consecrated to the of 87th Avenue in Westchester named “Sabre Way” by the state of Virgin Mary. Florida and Miami-Dade County, thanks to Florida Legislator and In 1987, a small group of people school alumni Jose Felix Diaz. Posing with the Sabre Way sign are, formed the movement in Miami. from left, St. Brendan Assistant Principal Barbara Acosta, Doral Vice Over time, the devotion grew, to Mayor Christi Fraga, St. Brendan Principal Jose Rodelgo-Bueno, Rep. the point that they were able to Diaz, Miami-Dade Commissioner Javier Souto and Florida State Sen. build the shrine in Homestead. Anitere Flores. Fraga is also a school alumna. (COURTESY) Its s name i the Shrine of Light and Pathwayo t the Merciful Father. It was blessed Dec. 12, 2010. Cur- rently, Schoenstatt has more than 300 members in South Florida, the majority of them Hispanic. There are separate groups for women, families and young people. The movement is characterized by the image of Mary with the child Jesus in her arms, which devotees have dubbed the Mother Thrice 32478-1120 Admirable, Queen and Victress 32366-1120 of Schoenstatt. Members focus on teaching love for the Church 20 ADVERTISEMENT Florida Catholic November 2014 30426-1120 November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org ADVERTISEMENT 21 30425-1120 22 FLORIDA NEWS Florida Catholic November 2014

FLORIDA STATE RESPECT LIFE CONFERENCE Advocates show respect for life in variety of ways

JEAN GONZALEZ there, who had lived on death row. It women. Two representatives from RESPECT LIFE PEOPLE OF THE YEAR of the Florida Catholic staff was an amazing look into that life.” the.S. U Conference of Catholic Bishop Felipe Estevez of St. Augustine celebrated the opening Mass Schultz also said there was good Bishops spoke about how to inspire and Bishop Robert N. Lynch of St. Petersburg celebrated the closing TAMPA | From in vitro fertil- feedback for the presentation by Fa- potential volunteers for pro-life ac- Mass before the final banquet, where awards were given to the Respect ization to human trafficking, from ther Tadeusz Pacholczyk, director tivities and those who are already Life People of the Year. The following is a list of the award recipients. working as missionary disciples to of education at the National Catho- committed to the cause. They spoke understanding the role of pharma- lic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. about how advocates for life issues • Orlando Diocese: Margie • Miami Archdiocese: Carlos ceuticals in modern times, pro-life His talk was titled, “Acknowledg- and social justice issues should be Sweeney accepted the award on Penn, who was the architect who advocates left the Florida Respect ing VF the I Elephant in the Room: working together, and not against behalf of the Catholic Medical Guild donated his services for the renovation Life Conference with a bevy of var- Frozen human embryos, slippery each other, because their ministries for its commitment to pro-life efforts, of the new Our Lady of Hope Expect- ied and inspired information. slopes, and flawed ideas in resolv- are intertwined. particularly Dr. John Littell who worked ant Life Center in the Archdiocese of Held Oct. 25 and 26 at the ing infertility.” The long title was That ideal was demonstrated tirelessly to keep Planned Parenthood Miami. Bethany Center in Tampa, the an- appropriate for the hour and a half among the conference participants. out of Kissimmee. The guild has been • Pensacola-Tallahassee Dio- nual event gathered 250 from the informational discussion. (See story Along with pro-lifers who served as instrumental in raising the visibility of cese: Father Christian Winkeljohn, pa- archdiocese and six dioceses of this page.) volunteers with pregnancy crisis life issues in Central Florida, and serve rochial vicar at the Co-Cathedral of St. Florida. Sabrina Burton Schultz, Detective James McBride, di- centers and 40 Days for Life, there as a medical ethics resource on issues Thomas More in Tallahassee. He serves respect life director of the host St. rector of the Clearwater/Tampa were participants who served the relating to bioethics. as chaplain for the Catholic Student Petersburg Diocese, said she re- Bay Area Human Trafficking Task hungry and homeless, prison min- • Palm Beach Diocese: Emily Union at Florida State University in ceived a lot of good feedback about Force, delivered a presentation isters, youth ministers and more. Babilonia Gonzalez, who started the Tallahassee; is an active volunteer the conference from attendees. where he discussed the difference Mark Rohlena, director of the diocese’s Hispanic Rachel’s Vineyard at Open Door Women’s Clinic; leads Along with gathering respect life between human trafficking (also Office of Domestic Social Develop- ministry. She and her team have been groups to the annual March for Life advocates, the event hoped to delve known as modern-day slavery) ment at the U.S. bishops’ confer- invited by the bishops of Panama in Washington, D.C.; and has hosted and the Dominican Republic to start prayer vigils at the Co-Cathedral for into a spectrum of respect life is- and smuggling. He said trafficking ence, spoke about the call to mis- Rachel’s Vineyard in those locations. scheduled executions in opposition to sues, rather than focus on one facet victims could be from other coun- sionary discipleship and said the the death penalty. of the large umbrella that covers triesr o from the United States, and Church “must be filled with quiet • Venice Diocese: Kay and Bill from womb to tomb. For instance, their ages range from 13-year-olds saints.” Cook from St. Michael the Archangel • St. Augustine Diocese: Becky and Christ the King Chapel in Sarasota Jarboe, respect life coordinator for to gain a “different spin on the death to adults. He said in order to encourage work individually and as a couple St. Paul Parish in Jacksonville Beach, penalty,” the conference invited Victims can be runaways, as well and inspire missionary disciples in many pro-life projects. The parish where she has served for the past 10 Juan Melendez to speak. He spent as immigrants trapped while trying there should be acts of invitation, life representatives have served as years. She stepped down from that more than 17 years on Florida’s to gain entry in the United States, il- encounter and transformation. a Gabriel Angel who helps pregnant position recently to focus more on death row before he was exonerated legally and legally. The detective of- Even die-hard volunteers desire to women in need, 40 Days for Life teaching Theology of the Body to teens of a murder he did not commit. (See fered a special caveat to the prison be asked and need to know that ef- vigil coordinators in Sarasota, and at the parish. story, Page 23.) ministers gathered: Traffickers are forts matter. That invitation should coordinators of the annual County • St. Petersburg Diocese: Linda “(Participants) found they could targeting women in prison. be a personal extension, and not Fair Right to Life display. They also are Mason, volunteer director of Mary’s connect with him thanks to the Other topics at the conference just a heard or read in announce- the Knights of Columbus pro-life chair- Outreach Pregnancy Center in St. way he presented his emotional included adoption and the dangers ment of volunteer opportunities, persons and are state Knights pro-life Petersburg, which is located across the story,” Schultz said. “We were able posed by the pharmaceuticals that Rohlena said. n coordinating committee members. street from an abortion clinic. to hear someone who had been offer products that are harmful to Deadly side of in vitro fertilization’s ‘double-edged sword’ JEAN GONZALEZ netically through PGD will allow of the Florida Catholic staff parents to know if they would have a healthy baby. TAMPA | Having a baby But that creates a moral dilem- shouldn’t be like buying a custom- ma because while one embryo that made computer, where you as the passes a checklist made by parents consumer can choose eye color and is implanted, other embryos are intellect as you would monitor color frozen. and size of a hard drive. “That’s the exploitative dimen- “Designer babies” was just one sion in order to satisfy customers,” of the topics discussed during a Father Pacholczyk said to the 250 presentation by Father Tadeusz gathered at the conference. “The Pacholczyk, director of education slopes are very slippery indeed. We at the National Catholic Bioethics aren’t just slipping down a slope. We Center in Philadelphia, at the Flori- are now downhill skiing.” da Respect Life Conference. His talk In speaking about the moral was titled, “Acknowledging the IVF and ethical problems associated Elephant in the Room: Frozen hu- with in vitro fertilization, Father man embryos, slippery slopes, and Pacholczyk offered six points, in- Father Tad Pacholczyk makes a flawed ideas in resolving infertil- cluding frozen embryos; it involves Father Tad Pacholczyk, director of education for the National Catholic point during his presentation ity.” Just as the long title suggested, masturbation, the process breaks Bioethics Center in Philadelphia, speaks to, from left, Maggie Moren, “Acknowledging the IVF much ground was covered in the the natural exclusivity of the mari- Mary Stoft, both respect life volunteers, and Angeligue Ruhi-Lopez of Elephant in the Room: Frozen hour-and-a-half presentation Oct. tal covenant, selective reduction of Miami at the Florida Respect Life Conference in Tampa. Ruhi-Lopez human embryos, slippery slopes, 25 at the Bethany Center in Tampa. embryos, and an elevated risk of authored a book on Catholicism and infertility. (PHOTOS BY JEAN and flawed ideas in resolving Father Pacholczyk spoke about birth defects. GONZALEZ | FC) infertility.” in vitro fertilization (known as IVF) Some scientists regard frozen and preimplantation genetic diag- embryos as “collateral damage,” collateral damage,” and that the fertilization, in which multiple eggs with potassium chloride. nosis (known as PGD) and the way but Father Pacholczyk said with “enormous number” reflects the are fertilized to ensure successful “In vitro fertilization is a double- some members of society and the an estimated 600,000 frozen em- loss of “innocent bystanders.” implantation. But if a couple does edged sword, where you see death scientific community see them as bryosn i the United States, most The United States leads the not want to risk a multiple birth, at the end of the sword through pre- positive strides in medical technol- people might not know that when world’s countries in multiple births, then selective reduction occurs, implantation genetic diagnosis and ogy. To take a cell from an embryo thawed, 50 percent of the embryos and Father Pacholczyk said one rea- in which the heart of one or more created through IVF and test it ge- are lost. He said that is “serious son that is true is because of in vitro embryos is punctured and injected PLEASE SEE IVF, 23 November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org FLORIDA NEWS 23

FLORIDA STATE RESPECT LIFE CONFERENCE Capital punishment abolitionist shares his own personal story JEAN GONZALEZ Juan Melendez, of the Florida Catholic staff who was exonerated of murder after | Juan Melendez spent TAMPA spending 17 years 17 years, eight months and one day on Florida’s death on Florida’s death row. But after 10 row, offers his years, he got tired of it. personal story On , May 2 1984, police arrested Oct. 26 during him for the first-degree murder of a the Florida Polk County man, despite no physi- Respect Life ST THOMAS UNIVERSITY cal evidence linking Melendez to Conference in the crime. The police’s actions were Tampa. (JEAN RECEIVES $500,000 DONATION based on a confidential informant, GONZALEZ | FC) Archbishop Thomas Wenski receives a check with a $500,000 donation who Melendez knew as having a from businessman Arthur H. Hertz during the sixth annual Stone grudge against him and who had Crab Dinner for Athletics which took place Nov. 2 at St. Thomas changed his story several times. howo t speak English,” Melendez original trial lawyer, who is now a University. The donation will help establish the Arthur H. Hertz Melendez, the 99th person in the said, adding because of the lan- judge himself. Endowed Professorship in Sports Tourism. (MARLENE QUARONI | FC) United States exonerated and re- guage barrier, he had been unable But after that decision, Florida leased from death row, shared his to properly communicate with any declinedo t prosecute so Melendez story 6 Oct. 2 at the Florida Respect of his lawyers. “Those men made me didn’t know when he would be re- IVF “IVF does not solve infertil- Life Conference. He walked around feel like a human being.” leased from death row. It happened ity,” Father Pacholczyk said. “The in an emotional and animated man- While on death row, the hardest out of the blue Jan. 3, 2002, when he FROM 22 couple is still as infertile as before ner as he recalled his journey. thing to experience was an execu- was brought, in shackles and cuffs, they did the process.” On Sept. 21, 1984, a jury convicted tion. During his time there, 42 men to the information office of Florida selective reduction,” Father Pa- Along with natural family plan- the Brooklyn, N.Y., native, who was were put to death, including 35 in State Prison. A clerk asked him some cholczyk said. ning, which many Catholics know raisedn i Puerto Rico and spoke the electric chair and seven by lethal unusual questions such as date of However, the first of six points about, some of the other permissi- maybe five words in English, of the injection. birth and place of employment. Father Pacholczyk discussed took ble assistive reproductive technol- Sept. 13, 1983, murder of Delbert “Each of those men I had learned “There are no jobs on death row,” a large bulk of his presentation — ogies included Low Tubal Ovum Baker.e H said he was innocent. But to love, and they would snatch him Melendez recalled, who asked what the sacredness of human life. Transfer (LTOT), where ovulatory the judge sentenced him to die in out of his cell. I knew they were go- was going on. “Every human embryo is sacred drugs help women stimulate the Florida’s electric chair. ing to kill him and there was noth- The clerk said, “They are releas- and should not be instrumental- maturation of multiple ova, the One decade later, after living in a ing I could do about it,” Melendez ing you.” As if that statement wasn’t ized,” Father Pacholczyk said. use of drugs such as Viagra to help 6-footy b 9-foot cell under the shad- said. “I knew precisely the time they shocking enough, Melendez said the The priest, who earned a doc- with erectile dysfunction, and the ow of death for a crime he didn’t died, because the lights would go clerk and the guards did something torate in neuroscience at Yale treatment of endometriosis, dur- commit, and after watching men go off and on. And I also knew some of very unusual: They called him “Mr. University and worked as a mo- ing which displaced endometrial to their own deaths — either at the those men were innocent.” Melendez.” lecular biologist at Massachu- tissue thickens, breaks down and hands of the state or at their own He listed off names of men ex- While he was offered something setts General Hospital/Harvard bleeds with each menstrual cycle, hands — Melendez considered sui- ecuted who he believed to be in- to r eat o drink, Melendez said he Medical School, travels the na- but does not exit the body causing cide. Using a plastic bag smuggled in nocent, including Pedro Medina, only wanted to get his things out of tion speaking on this subject. But pain and many times, infertil- by another inmate, Melendez twist- whose brutal execution happened his cell and get out of that prison. Al- he knows that many priests avoid ity. Father Pacholczyk also spoke ed the bag to wrap around his neck when Melendez was on death row, though he had a smile on his face, a talking about in vitro fertiliza- about NaPro Technology (Natural and tried to choke himself to death. and Angel Diaz, who was executed somber reality hit him: He was leav- tion, not just because of the sci- Procreative Technology), a health He passed out, but did not die. in 2006. ing the other inmates behind. But he ence, but because there might be science that monitors and main- While unconscious, he dreamed In 2000, Melendez received legal also left something else behind. parishioners who know children tains a woman’s reproductive and of the ocean and beaches of his be- counsel in hopes of gaining a new “I learned how to let death and born through the procedure. gynecological health, and pro- loved Puerto Rico. He felt the anger trial. His new lawyers found evi- anger go,” he recalled, saying some While Father Pacholczyk is vides medical and surgical treat- and frustration that had festered dence and information that greatly fellow inmates smiled at his news, well-versed about the science, ments that cooperate completely for a decade subside, if only in his benefited Melendez. The most im- other had tears in their eyes. And he has been in situations where with the reproductive system. dream state. portant piece found was a taped some were able to talk. “They told he has spoken at a parish about While in vitro fertilization has a But e when h awoke, there was a confession from the real killer — me, ‘Don’t get in trouble,’ and ‘Take the moral and ethical problems success rate of 25 percent, some renewed sense in him. He needed to Vernon James, a man seen at the care of your mamá,’ because every- of in vitro fertilization and been facets of NaPro boast an 80 per- follow the example set by his mother beauty school where Delbert Baker one there knew about my mamá.” approached by a kindly woman cent success rate. and aunts, who communicated with was murdered. His taped confession And when he left, the last sound who says, “How can you say my Father Pacholczyk said along him through letters. Have faith. was presented to both the prosecu- he heard from the hallways was the granddaughter is not a gift? Not with informing couples of accept- Trust in God. tion and the defense a month before inmates clapping. a blessing?” While a natural and able ways to assist in pregnancy, As he did so, he saw himself Melendez went to trial. That tape, The only compensation Melendez passionate question, Father Pa- there should also be awareness change. along with documents of witness received from Florida was $100 when cholczyk said it is also a “trick that sometimes pregnancy is not “God was telling me, ‘You leave interviews pointing fingers at James he left prison. He never received a question.” medically possible. Those couples when I say you leave,’” Melendez as the killer and others acknowledg- formal apology from the state. He “Every child who comes into should be allowed to grieve for the said of his failed suicide attempt. ing one key prosecution witness (a shares his story nationwide in ef- the world is a gift, whether born inability to procreate, and pro-life “So it took 17 years, eight months convicted killer himself) received forts to abolish the death penalty. by in vitro fertilization, rape or advocates should be there for sup- and one day to change the man. compensation to testify against Me- He is featured in the documentary, incest,” he said, adding those who port. Couples who cannot have … Thank you God. But it took too lendez, convinced Judge Barbara “Juan Melendez 6446,” which is the become parents through IVF have children should not feel “sterile long, God,” Mele,ndez added with Fleischer to grant a new trial. number of days he was on death row. good intentions. “But good ends and fruitless.” Instead they should a laugh. “I was not saved by the system; “The problem with the death don’t justify all means.” be encouraged to ask, “What are To get out of death row, he need- I was saved in spite of the system. penalty is in the details. It is racist. The Church understands that the ways God wants us to be fruit- ed a successful appeal. To do so, he I was saved by the grace of God,” It costs too much money. It is cruel couples face infertility problems, ful?” needed to learn the language. So Melendez said, who added he owes and unusual punishment, and long and it supports procedures that “To never have a child of flesh he turned to his neighbors, fellow Fleischer his life. After looking at as the state of Florida has it, there assist fertility, rather than “re- and blood, that can be like a death death row inmates. the evidence brought at appeal, will always be the risk to execute an place the marital act.” Father Pa- in marriage, a cross of deep suf- “These men were the ‘worst of the Fleischer wrote a “72-page opinion innocent one,” Melendez said. “You cholczyk said a fallacy connected fering,” Father Pacholczyk said. worst,’ the ones people saw as mon- where she chastised all the lawyers can release an innocent man from to in vitro fertilization is that it is “But s that i where you ask, ‘Where sters, but they taught this Puerto Ri- and investigators” involved in the prison, but you cannot release an in- a cure for infertility. is God leading us?’” n can how to write, how to read, and original case including Melendez’s nocent man from the grave.” n 24 ADVERTISEMENT Florida Catholic November 2014 32730-1120 November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 25

TWO TOUGH MUDDERS NEWSbriefs are available for 30 participants, Learn about Diaconate including youths and chaper- ordination set ones. Anyone wishing to join the Catholic social group, as well as any parish, youth for Dec. 6 or young adult group planning to teaching Thirteen men will be ordained attend separately, is asked to con- Pathways of Faith, a program of permanent deacons for the Arch- tact Rosemarie Banich, director ongoing faith formation for the la- diocesef o Miami Saturday, Dec. of Youth and Young Adult Minis- ity offered by the Office of Lay Min- 6,0 1 a.m., at St. Mary Cathedral. try, so that archdiocesan partici- istry, continues in December with Fellow deacons, family, friends pants can walk together during the three sessions on Catholic social and well-wishers are invited to the march. Call 305-762-1189 or email doctrine and practice. The sessions ceremony. The candidates being [email protected]. will take place Wednesday nights, ordained after a five-year forma- Dec. 3, 10 and 17, beginning 7:30 tion process are: Blaise Augustin; Artists invited p.m.,t a St. Bernard Parish center, Nestor Enrique Cardenas; John 8279 Sunset Strip, Sunrise. The Armando Clarke; James Thomas to exhibit ‘Under presenter will be David Masters, Dugard; Santos Feliciano; Jose Fe- the Oaks’ theology teacher at Msgr. Edward lipe Gomez; Juan Ernesto Gonzalez; Pace High School in Miami Gar- Javier Inda; Hector Agustin Norat; Artistically inclined? Did you dens. The classes will explore how Jose Antonio Santos Jr.; Alfredo Jose paint it, draw it, carve it, sculpt it, Catholics respond to the ongoing Valle; Mark Phillip Westman; and sew it, crochet it, knit it or even sol- challenges of violence and poverty Carlos Adrian Zapatero. Look for der it? Then become an exhibitor at in the world, including: theory and more complete coverage and pro- San Pedro Church’s 32nd annual action, the “see-judge-act” method files of each of the new deacons in Art Under the Oaks festival, to be and how Catholic social doctrine is the December edition of the Florida held Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015, from applied in prison ministry (Dec. 3); Catholic. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the church gar- Catholic social doctrine as applied dens. For those who enjoy seeing to women and the world’s other re- Transitional Deacons Phillip Tran, left, of Miami and Chuck Youths, young and purchasing art, the event fea- ligions (Dec. 10); and the Catholic Dornquast of St. Petersburg pose after crossing the finish line of tures a variety of entertainment, response to genocide in the 20th the Tough Mudder challenge held in Kissimmee Nov. 9. The 10-12- adults invited to original arts and crafts, free admis- and 21st centuries, including Na- mile obstacle course is designed to be completed by a team, and 31 sion, and free parking and shuttle zism, communism and jihadist men from St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach March for Life participated in the event, which also benefits the Wounded Warrior from nearby Coral Shores High Islamism. Cost is $20 for the series Project. Along with physical training, those from the seninary who The Office of Youth and Young School. The church is located on or $10 for each session. Registra- participated “spiritually adopted” a wounded veteran and kept Adult Ministry invites youth Plantation Key in Tavernier, mile tion at the door is $5 more. To regis- the veteran in prayer. Msgr. David Toups, rector of the seminary groups and young adult groups to marker 89.5 bay side. Those wish- ter, call 305-762-1184 or visit www. who also participated in the team challenge, said the event builds the March for Life January 2015 in ing to exhibit can find information miamiarch.org/layministry. fraternal bonds, encourages exercise, and breaks stereotypes of what Washington, D.C. The archdioc- at artundertheoaks.com or by call- seminarians are like. “It is an opportunity to tell the outside world esan group will be traveling Jan. ing Pat Dodson, 305-664-0888. that these are very real men and that they really enjoy life and all 21-23, with the March for Life tak- of its challenges,” Msgr. Toups said. (COURTESY PHOTO) ing place Jan. 22. Accommodations

SCHOOLS: Scholarships enable schools to do more for kids, staffs FACTS ABOUT CORPORATE FROM 1 they want.” “Anyone who came in to register TAX CREDIT SCHOLARSHIPS In North Miami, St. James School a student we would ask, ‘Have you • Florida Tax Credit scholarships currently enable 68,000 students from low- Up money, out of a total enroll- has become almost entirely reliant heardf o Step Up?’ It has helped income families throughout the state to attend kindergarten through 12th grade mentf o 33,445. More than 1,200 on p Step U scholarships over the some of our children go on to high in a participating private school, be it Catholic, religious or not. other archdiocesan students are past four or five years. Some 345 school,” Sister Carr said. • The program was created by the Legislature in 2001 to give low-income par- being helped by McKay scholar- of its students, out of a total of 381, Like St. James, St. Mary’s Cathe- ents the same educational choices as parents who are better off financially. It is ships for children with disabilities are receiving financial aid through dral School in Miami now has a ma- funded by donations from corporations that in turn receive a dollar-for-dollar tax or are benefitting from the VPK the p Step U program. A sudden in- jority of students benefiting from credit from the state. (Voluntary Prekindergarten) pro- terruption of that program would state scholarship funds: 306 out of • Qualifying students can obtain up to $5,272 annually for private school tuition gram, neither of which is facing a be highly disruptive, according to a total of 407 students receive Step and fees, or $500 to assist with the cost of transportation to a public school in legal challenge. Of the 62 Catholic Sister Kathleen Carr, assistant prin- Up financial assistance, according a different county. The scholarships are based solely on family income, not on elementary and high schools in the cipal and religion coordinator at St. to school principal Sister Michelle whether the child attends a public school that has been graded as “failing.” archdiocese, 39 are participating James. Fernandez of the Servants of the • According to the Step Up website, nearly 70 percent of the scholarship students in the Step Up program; 30 in the Sister Carr, of the Sisters of St. Jo- Pierced Hearts of Jesus and Mary. are African-American or Hispanic and 54 percent live with only one parent. McKay scholarships; and 11 in the seph of St. Augustine, said that ex- Manyf o the students come from They live, on average, 9 percent above the poverty line, with the average family VPK program. tra scholarship support has enabled single-parent families where moth- income hovering around $25,000. And they ranked among the lowest-performing Observers say it may take a year St. James School to raise teacher ers often work more than one job, students in the public schools they left behind. or two for the Step Up case to work salaries and attract quality staff and loss of the corporate-tax-based • Catholic schools in Florida were among the first nonpublic schools to embrace through the court system but ex- in recent years. The school serves scholarships would mean the fami- scholarship programs such as Step Up, in order to extend opportunities to fami- pect it to ultimately end up in the mostly the local Haitian-American lies would have to look elsewhere lies who otherwise might be pushed to the margins of society. Florida’s Catholic Florida Supreme Court. community. for tuition assistance. bishops have long supported the rights and responsibilities of parents as the Gago’s daughter is one of 64 stu- “When a new student comes in “Our parents are not able to pay primary educators of their children. dents out of a total of 423 at Sts. Pe- from public school, the academic out of pocket and we would have ter and Paul who are enrolled in the progress and behavior improve- to go to another benefactor,” Sister scholarship program. ment we see with some of them is Fernandez said. “It would affect some families of a Catholic educa- down the cost of education, and “I have a high percentage of remarkable and a lot of them heard (single mothers) the most, so that tion, said Sister Gomez of the Sisters some parents help out with things Stepp U students so the parents re- about us from word of mouth,” is my biggest worry — for their chil- of St. Philip Neri. like technology donations,” Sister ally don’t want to lose that, mainly Sister Carr said, noting that the dren.” “Those students will have to go Gomez said. “It would be sad to lose because the students will be hurt school’s good reputation among In Broward County, St. Jerome to public schools and so the state something that has done so much and they won’t have the access to area parents has been driven with School near Port Everglades in Fort will have to invest more money,” good for so many people.” n Catholic education,” said Carlota no advertising. New students and Lauderdale has 53 Step Up-sup- she said, adding that the program Morales, principal at Sts. Peter and existing families were alerted to ported students out of a total enroll- is actually a cost benefit to Florida. To access the online petition to Paul. “I have (some) parents who the p Step U program through di- ment of 300, according to Sister Viv- “At St. Jerome there is another protect Step Up scholarships, visit are very low income and this would rect contacts with parents and ian Gomez, principal. The school nun and myself which brings the www.ipetitions.com/petition/ be taking away their rights as citi- announcements in the parish reli- could probably carry on without cost down because of the salary we stop-the-lawsuit-against-flori- zens to send their children where gious education programs. the program, but it would deprive make. Our teacher salaries bring das-tax-credit. 26 YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY Florida Catholic November 2014

Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, del matrimonio en la Iglesia. August 2014 on the site of the COMMUNITY 38 N.W. 57 Ave. (Flagler Street $125/pareja. 305-226-4664. former St. Charles Borromeo Archdiocese of Miami. Due to the subject matter, children are and 57th), Miami. Hear the Pre-Cana, Dec. 20-21, Church, which was merged EVENTS not allowed. To register, log in most popular Christmas song in Assumption, 2001 S. Ocean into St. Matthew Church in to www.virtusonline.org; click on its original language, discover Blvd., Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Hallandale in October 2009. Christmas bazaar, Nov. 22- the yellow word “registration” treasure of Byzantine/Ukrainian Marriage preparation class 954-374-9100. 23, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish located on the left-hand side rite. Free; any donations go requirement for all engaged hall, 11291 S.W. 142 Ave., Miami. of the page; choose Miami toward church building fund. couples. Sacramentality and Unique gifts, arts and crafts, as your “organization”; view desserts, food court. Sponsored 954-434-4635, donnamak@ life skills training using the bellsouth.net. list of available sessions. For by parish’s Council of Catholic teachings of St. John Paul II RETREATS/DAYS information, e-mail jrayburn@ Women. 305-458-3091. Concierto de Adoración known as Theology of the Body. theadom.org: International festival, Nov. y Alabanza, sábado, 6 de Registration and information: OF REFLECTION diciembre, 7 p.m., St. John Bosco, 305-762-1148, famlife@theadom. • Tuesday, Dec. 9, 6 p.m., 22-23, San Isidro, 2310 Martin Retiro de Emaús, 28-30 Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Luther King Blvd., Pompano 1349 W. Flagler St., Miami. 305- org, www.miamiarch.org/ 649-5464. familylife. de noviembre, Holy Rosary-St. Sea, Key West. Beach. Food, dance, music, Richard, 9500 S.W. 184 St., Cutler Rumbarroco, Saturday, Dec. Retrouvaille, Jan. 23-25, To report abuse by cultural entertainment for all. Bay. Basado en el evangelio de 13, 7:30 p.m., St. Martha, 9221 2015, San Pedro Center, 2400 someone representing the 954-971-8780, ivonnevaldez@ Lucas 24:13:35, una oportunidad Biscayne Blvd., Miami Shores. St. Dike Road, Winter Park. Diocese- Archdiocese: 1-866-802-2873 sanisidro.org. de crecimiento spiritual al Martha-Yamaha Concert Series sponsored program for couples (toll-free); to report all abuse World AIDS Day Evening of descubrir una nueva relación con presents Latin-Baroque fusion in struggling relationships who allegations to civil authorities: Solidarity, Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m.-1 Dios. 786-362-2156, hremaus@ ensemble playing Renaissance, want to save their marriages. 1-800-962-2873. a.m., St. Bartholomew Parish gmail.com. hall, 8005 Miramar Parkway, Baroque, Afro-Hispanic music Post-sessions take place in the from Spain, Mexico, Guatemala, Miami/Broward area. 954-558- Matrimonios en Victoria, Miramar. Includes music and Dec. 6-7, St. Hugh, 3460 Royal entertainment. Organized by Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil, and 6151, 352-274-4614, www. SCHOOLS Cuba. Tickets: $10 or $20. www. retrouvaille.org. Road, Coconut Grove. Retiro the Youn Renmen Lòt ministry. para fortalecer el matrimonio Open house, Thursday, stmarthamiami.com, 305-751- Southeast Pastoral Institute Donation: $25. 954-981-9966. y mejorar su relación con Dios. Dec. 4, 9 a.m., St. Brendan 0005. (SEPI), 7700 S.W. 56 St., Miami. Nativity scene unveiling, 305-519-3019, rsilva@silvaarc. Elementary, 8755 S.W. 32 Holy Night, Wednesday, Dec. 305-279-2333, sepimiami@aol. Monday, Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., Little com. St., Miami. mtavarez@ 17, 7:30 p.m., Epiphany, 8235 com, www.sepi.us. Maestría en Flower, front lawn of Comber stbrendanmiami.org, 305-221- S.W. 57 Ave., Miami. Epiphany’s Ministerio Pastoral Hispano, Sólo desde la Fe y el Amor Hall, 2711 Indian Mound Trail, Se Puede Esperar, sábado, 2722. Coral Gables. Life-size scene, choirs and orchestra perform acreditada por Barry University. festive music by Handel, Puccini, Clases en español. 6 de diciembre, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., “Carnival of Color,” music by church choir, followed o sábado, 13 de diciembre, 8 Monday-Friday through Dec. Weber, Gounod. 305-667-4911, Enriquecimiento by reception. 305-446-9950. a.m.-3 p.m., Casa de Oración 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Archbishop [email protected]. matrimonial a nivel espiritual St. Nicholas celebration, Nuestra Señora del Monte Curley Notre Dame High School, y práctico, a través de Post Sunday, Dec. 7, noon, Carmelo, 15710 N.W. 44 Ct., 4949 N.E. Second Ave., Miami. Camino. Segundo miércoles Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Miami Gardens. Retiro de An exhibition of photographs de mes en el SEPI, (Southeast Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, adviento dirigido por el Fray by advanced IPC Visual Lab Pastoral Institute) 7700 S.W. 56th 38 N.W. 57 Ave. (Flagler Street FAITH EDUCATION Miguel Gil-Díaz, Carmelitas photojournalism students, whose St., Miami. 305-226-4664. and 57th), Miami. Traditional Descalzos. Donación: $25, incluye images document the vibrant, Bible Alive: Bible Basics, Ukrainian celebration of feast Post-Camino, second almuerzo. 305-816-6468, info@ colorful life characteristic of Wednesday, Nov. 26, 10 a.m.- of St. Nicholas following 10:30 Wednesdays, Southeast Pastoral carmelitasdescalzosmiami.org. South Florida. [email protected], noon or 7-9 p.m., All Saints, Institute (SEPI), 7700 S.W. 56 St., a.m. Divine Liturgy. Children’s Días de reflexión con 305-751-8367. Room 2, 10900 W. Oakland Miami. Marriage preparation program, traditional Ukrainian Jesse Romero, viernes, 12 Entrance exams: Park Blvd., Sunrise. The “how follow-up with presentations holiday foods, craft items for de diciembre, 7-8:30 p.m., to boil water” course on sacred for improving marriages, both • St. Brendan Elementary, sale along with visit from St. y sábado, 13 de diciembre, Scripture. 954-742-2666. spiritually and practically. 305- Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, 9 Nicholas. donnamak@bellsouth. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mary Help of Extraordinary minister of 226-4664. a.m., 8725 S.W. 32 St., Miami. net, 954-434-4635. Christians, 5980 University Drive, holy Communion workshop, [email protected], Pro-life banquet, Monday, Online marriage Parkland. Evangelista católico Tuesday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m., St. 305-221-2722. Dec. 8, 7 p.m., St. Malachy, 6200 preparation for couples with laico, director del apostolado Anthony, 901 N.E. 2nd St., Fort • Chaminade-Madonna N. University Drive, Tamarac. special circumstances that will de predicación “On Fire Lauderdale. Offered by Office College Preparatory, Saturday, Guest speaker: Joan Crown, not allow them to participate Evangelization”, y conductor of Worship for new ministers Jan. 24, 2015, 7:45 a.m., director of archdiocesan Respect in any of the parish programs. de los programas “Razones only. Candidates must register 500 E. Chaminade Drive, Life Ministry. $25/person, Family Life Office: 305-762- para mi fe”, en EWTN Radio, y through parishes or schools, Hollywood. Tuition grants includes dinner. 954-726-1237. 1148/1157, famlife@theadom. “La Verdad los Hará Libres”, en be recommended by pastors, org. awarded to students scoring Radio Guadalupe. www.mhocrc. in 90th percentile or higher. principals or chaplains, be 18 or Preparación prematrimonial org, 954-323-8012. Preregistration required. www. older, confirmed and leading a por internet, para parejas life in harmony with the faith. Our Lady of Florida cmlions.org. CONCERTS con circunstancias especiales Spiritual Center, 1300 U.S. [email protected], 305- que no les permiten asistir a 762-1105. Highway 1, North Palm Beach. “Carol of the Bells,” los programas en las iglesias. Reservations required, some Entrenamiento para Saturday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m., Pastoral Familiar: 305-762- require deposit. 561-626-1300, ministros extraordinarios Assumption of the Blessed Virgin 1148/1157, famlife@theadom. www.ourladyofflorida.org: SPIRITUAL de la Santa Comunión, org. ofrecidos por la Oficina de • “Advent: A Time for First Saturday Communion Liturgia para nuevos ministros Turning,” Wednesday, Dec. 3, 10 of Reparation, devotion to solamente. Los candidatos a.m.-2:30 p.m. Day of reflection Our Lady of Fatima with rosary, deben matricularse a través led by Passionist Father meditation, confession and de sus parroquias o escuelas, MASSES Damian Towey. $30, includes Communion: deben ser recomendados por su presentations, opportunities for • St. Andrew, 9950 N.W. 29 St. Black Catholic History confession, lunch and Mass. párroco, director o capellán de Month, Sunday, Nov. 30, noon, Coral Springs, 8 a.m. • Advent day of reflection, la escuela, tener por lo menos 18 St. Helen, 3033 N.W. 33 Ave., • En español: Good Shepherd, Saturday, Dec. 20, 10 a.m.-2:30 años de edad, haber recibido la Fort Lauderdale. The St. Martin 14187 S.W. 72 St., Miami, 10 a.m., led by Our Lady of Florida Confirmación y llevar una vida de Porres Award for Excellence a.m.; St. John Bosco, 1349 W. retreat team. $30, includes en armonía con la fe. lenriquez@ will be presented to Sister Flagler St., Miami, 4 p.m. presentations, opportunities for theadom.org, 305-762-1105: Clementina Givens, Oblate Catholic prayer breakfast, Broward Monument confession, lunch and Mass. martes, 2 de diciembre, 7 p.m., Sisters of Providence. 305-762- second Tuesdays, 7-8:30 a.m., Preserving the memory St. Joachim, 19150 SW 117th 1120, blackcatholicministry@ • New Year’s Eve retreat, Dec. Morningside Renewal Center, of your loved one Ave., Miami. theadom.org. 31-Jan. 1, led by retreat team 7275 S.W. 124 St., Pinecrest. of Our Lady of Florida. $80 Pathways of Faith, 40 Hours devotion of the Monthly breakfast aimed at overnight; $60 commuter. 1227 S. Andrews Ave. Wednesdays, Dec. 3, 10 and Blessed Sacrament, Epiphany, Catholic professionals, with a Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 17, 7:30-9:30 p.m., St. Bernard 8235 S.W. 57 Ave., Miami. different guest speaker each Parish hall, 8279 Sunset Strip, Opening Mass, Sunday, Dec. 7, month. Donation: $7/breakfast, PhONE: Sunrise. Ongoing formation for 6 p.m.; Mass of the Immaculate $75/year. 305-284-3270. 954-523-7199 adults presented by Office of Lay Conception, Monday, Dec. 8, SAFE Ministry. Topic: Catholic social 7:30 p.m.; closing Mass, Tuesday, FAx: doctrine and practice, taught Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m. 305-667-4911, ENVIRONMENT 954-761-8174 by David Masters. 305-762-1184, info@epiphanycatholicchurch. 32522-1120 [email protected]. Virtus workshops help SUPPORT GROUPS com. parents, teachers and anyone TOLL FREE: Camino del Matrimonio, 6 Our Lady of La Vang who works with children Unidos Para Siempre, 1-800-997-7199 y 7 de diciembre, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Vietnamese Mission recognize signs of sexual abuse segundo sábado de mes, 4-6 Southeast Pastoral Institute www.browardmonuments.com rededication, Sunday, Dec. 14, and spot abusers. Sessions are p.m., St. Boniface, 8330 Johnson (SEPI), 7700 S.W. 56 St., Miami. 5:30 p.m., 123 N.W. Sixth Ave., free, around three hours long, St., Pembroke Pines. Talleres Programa de preparación Hallandale. Main celebrant: and required for all employees para matrimonios y noviazgos BRONZE – GRANITE matrimonial para parejas que Archbishop Thomas Wenski. and volunteers in schools, comprometidos. 954-432-2750. desean celebrar el sacramento MEMORIAL and PLAQUES Our Lady of La Vang opened in parishes and entities of the November 2014 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR MIAMI COMMUNITY 27 Parish to shed light on death ANA RODRIGUEZ-SOTO comfort, consolation and clarity. Catholic’s sacramental life full cir- heaven.” As a matter of fact, pa- is still finalizing the schedule of of the Florida Catholic staff What are the things to do when cle: back to baptism. rishioners’ bequests are currently speakers. death comes?” he said. He noted some of the parallels paying for the renovation of three He promises “a fluid, moving, MIAMI | Let’s talk about death. The idea came to him a while between baptismal and funeral confessionals at Little Flower. constantly interactive dynamic” That’s what Father Michael Da- back. It arose out of his personal rites: blessing with holy water, “Any one of these (topics) could aimed at “discerning Catholics vis wants to do. The pastor of Little experiences as a priest. presence of a paschal candle, cov- be daylong or semesterlong semi- who want to learn more about their Flower Parish in Coral Gables is set- “The average Catholic is woe- ering with a white garment. nars,” Father Davis said. But on faith.” ting aside a whole day, Feb. 25, 2015, fully undereducated when it comes And don’t get him started on Feb. 25, they will be broken into In fact, he realized afterward to do just that: offer “practical helps to knowing what to do when death ashes and what to do with cremat- half-hour talks from experts com- his presentation fulfills one of the and pastoral considerations” on the presents itself,” he said. “It just ed remains. “I’ve heard incredible bined with a daylong — 9 a.m.-4 recommendations of the archdi- subject of death and the process of struck me that we need to do more stories of what people have done p.m. — informational fair. The ocesan synod’s Strategic Pastoral dying. as a Church to talk about topics with the ashes,” he said. public can come for the whole day Plan: providing more opportuni- He is bringing in experts on that we all face.” Some people throw them “to the or just a few hours. Representatives ties for Catholics to be formed in funerals and cemeteries, health Topics such as: whom to call first wind;” others scatter them in the from funeral homes, hospice pro- their faith. and hospice, testaments and liv- when a loved one dies; whether to ocean, all of which is contrary to viders, health care organizations, “I think this has the potential ing wills, and inviting the public bury or cremate; what to do with Church teaching. “I don’t want to cemeteries, attorneys and theo- to be very helpful,” he said, and he to come and hear them — for the ashes; how to write a will or be swimming in someone’s ceme- logians will be on hand to answer hopes other parishes will be en- free. create a trust; what to ask the doc- tery when I go to the beach,” Father questions and provide guidance. couraged to replicate his efforts. “I sense there’s a morbid fatal- tors; how to deal with end-of-life is- Davis said. “I want the full range of Catholic “This is a clear issue that needs to ism that leads us to not want to deal sues; how to write a living will; how There’s also the question of re- and ministerial professionals to be be addressed in every one of our with this until it happens,” Father to plan a funeral Mass. membering the Church — a parish present,” said Father Davis, who parishes.” n Davis said. “I think we need some That last one is especially im- or school — in your will. “So of- light here.” portant, Father Davis said. The ten the Church isn’t even remem- He wants to shine the light not Catholic Church has “incred- bered. Are we a constitutive part of just on practical matters but on ibly beautiful” funeral rituals that people’s lives or not?” Father Davis spiritual ones as well. “How are we fewer and fewer people seem to be said. supposed to handle this as Catho- asking for. These rituals help com- He calls these bequests “bless- lics? Those who are grieving need fort the living and bring a deceased ings from beyond” or “gifts from 30861-1120 32323-1120 28 ADVERTISEMENT Florida Catholic November 2014 32030-1120 31778-1120