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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DIOCESE OF AUSTIN Catholic Pro-Life Day gives message of hope Day, observed Jan. 28 by nesses to the dignity of human “The Supreme Court deci- as Rally for Life, held on BY MARY P. WALKER thousands, who came to the life. When we come together, sion prevents the law from the steps of the State Capi- SENIOR CORRESPONDENT Capitol from different parts of we regain that hope and give protecting the most vulnera- tol. Thousands participated the state. new energy to our work to build ble members of society –– the in the march, and the crowd Hope was the theme for “It’s important for the a culture of life,” said Marie unborn,” he said. extended the length of four the Texas Catholic Pro-Life church to come together as wit- Seale, director of the diocesan Quoting Pope Benedict city blocks. Individuals and Of ce of Pro-Life Activities and XVI, the bishop reminded groups, with diverse perspec- Chaste Living. us that “the embryo is not tives but united in their hope The day began with an an accumulation of biologi- and resolve to protect the un- early morning prayer vigil at cal material, but a new living born and vulnerable, marched a Planned Parenthood facility, being.” together in peaceful solidar- with approximately 200 pray- Addressing another assault ity under the cloudless blue ing for an end to abortion and on life and conscience, Bishop Texas sky. Many remarked conversion of those work- Vásquez called on Catholics to that the weather was perfect, ing in the abortion industry. ght with prayers and political and some saw this as a sign of Following the vigil, hundreds action the U.S. government God’s blessing. gathered at San José Parish mandate that requires Catholic Val Sutorius, a parishioner to pray the Rosary for Life. institutions to include ster- St. Louis Parish in Austin, A teen or young adult repre- ilization, contraception and came to the rally to encour- sented each bead, and the ro- abortion-inducing drugs in age women facing challenging sary extended throughout the health insurance plans. Read- pregnancies to choose life. church. As the congregation ing from a letter distributed to Although she had not always prayed, elementary students all parishes, in a strong, em- been pro-life in her outlook, a reenacted the joyful mysteries. phatic voice, Bishop Vásquez friend took her to a past rally, Bishop Joe Vásquez and said, “We cannot — we will and she said that over time, Bishop Wm. Michael Mulvey not — comply with this un- “Sunshine melted my stony of the Corpus Christi Dio- just law.” cold heart.” She had been en- cese, along with priests from The bishop emphasized couraged to abort her now the Austin Diocese, then cel- that although the culture of 22-year-old son with special ebrated the Pro-Life Mass. death leads to darkness, God needs, but chose life. Today, Approximately 1,200 people calls us to be people of faith she offers hope, help and sup- lled the church to pray for and hope, saying “We have port to parents of other spe- God’s mercy in removing all confidence in God to take cial needs children through offenses against the dignity of care of his church,” and en- Texas Parent to Parent (www. life in our nation. trusted the cause of life and txp2p.org). In his homily, Bishop efforts on its behalf to Our At the Rally for Life, the Vásquez referred to the Roe Lady of Guadalupe. speakers presented a theme of THOUSANDS marched to the State Capitol in support of v. Wade decision that made After a brief lunch break, hope that prevailed over the all human life on Jan. 28. The message of the day was abortion legal throughout the many Catholics joined the one of hope, said organizers. (Photo by Mary P. Walker) U.S. 39 years ago. 14-block march to the Tex- See LIFE on Page 3

NEW YEAR RICH TREASURE Periodical Holy Vietnamese Vocations director Postage Paid

at Austin, Texas Martyrs Parish helps others realize celebrates the Lunar their call. New Year. Page 10 Page 4

BISHOP’S EN INTERVIEW ESPAÑOL Bishop discusses El Espíritu Santo the importance of al centro de strong families. la conferencia Page 19 Página 29 Austin Diocese 290 East 6225 Hwy. 78723 Austin, Texas 2 VOICES CATHOLIC SPIRIT THE MISSION OF THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT As the of cial newspaper for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Austin, the CATHOLIC SPIRIT is dedicated to providing infor- May these holy men rest in peace mation, education and formation for the Catholic community of Central Texas. This mission calls for the newspaper: Father William Texas parishes: St. Monica in Cameron from 1972 • to provide readers with an understanding of our Catholic “Bill” Benish died to 1974, Church of the Assumption in West from faith and traditions; Feb. 6 at the age of 1974 to 1978, St. Louis in Austin from 1978 to • to be a primary source of information on Catholic issues relevant to the community; 66. He was born 1979, St. Louis in Waco in 1979, St. Michael in • to be a unifying element for faith communities, both rural Sept. 20, 1945, in Burlington also in 1979, St. Mary in Temple from and urban, throughout Central Texas; Greenville, Pa. and 1979 to 1982, St. Paul in Smithville in 1982, and • to show respect for and appreciation of all cultural groups earned a bachelor’s St. Louis in Austin again in 1982 to 1983. He was and traditions; degree in philoso- the founding pastor of St. Margaret Mary Parish in • to emphasize topics af rming the Catholic community and phy in 1968 and a Cedar Park, serving there from 1983 to 2000. He life, while acknowledging the humanity of the community and master’s degree in served as the Austin moderator for the Diocesan examining, with courage, topics that challenge and encourage growth in the faith; theology in 1972, Council of Catholic Women. In 2002, he served • to carry a commitment to social justice that will support both from St. brie y as chaplain at the Catholic Student Center the renewal of the church in Central Texas. Mary’s University at Texas State University in San Marcos. in San Antonio. He Father Benish is survived by one brother and HOW TO SUBMIT INFORMATION was ordained to the numerous nieces and nephews. Bishop Joe Vásquez priesthood at celebrated the Mass of Christian Burial Feb. 9 at St. Deadline for submission of articles or information for the FATHER BILL BENISH CATHOLIC SPIRIT is the 10th of the month for publication in the St. Mary Cathe- Margaret Mary Parish in Cedar Park. Father Ben- following month’s edition. dral in Austin ish was buried at Assumption Cemetery in Austin. Deadline for the April issue is March 10. on June 3, 1972. His family requests that, in lieu owers, donations You can submit material in any of the following ways: Father Benish served the following Central be made to the St. Margaret Mary Building Fund. • E-mail to [email protected]. ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( • Mail to CATHOLIC SPIRIT, 6225 Hwy. 290 E., Austin, TX 78723. For additional information, call (512) 949-2443 or e-mail Dominican Hispanic community in more than 35 states. He us at [email protected]. CATHOLIC SPIRIT has Father Ralph resided in the Rio Grande Valley for 15 years and unrestricted editing rights. Rogawski died Feb. in 1992 came to Austin, where he co-founded the 6. He was born on Dominican Missionary Preaching Team in 1992. HOW TO SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR April 3, 1934, and He is survived by two sisters Marcella Rogawski Readers are encouraged to express their opinions on ministered for 52 and Gertrude Rogawski who live in Fort Wayne, articles published in CATHOLIC SPIRIT. Letters to the editor pro- years as a mission- Ind. as well as several generations of nieces and vide a forum of discussion for the local Catholic community. ary priest. After nephews. The views expressed in the letters do not necessarily repre- working 16 years The Mass of the Christian Burial was cel- sent those of the editor or the publisher of CATHOLIC SPIRIT. Letters to the editor should be limited to 250 words. in Latin America in ebrated Feb. 10 at San José Parish in Austin; Name and full address of the writer must be provided, Bolivia, Columbia, he was buried Feb. 17 at Dominican Friars though name will be withheld from publication on request. Venezuela, Peru, Cemetery in Rosaryville, La. Memorials may be We reserve the right to edit or withhold all letters. Please Mexico and Puerto made to Southern Dominican Province, 1421 e-mail to [email protected] or mail to Edi- Rico, he returned North Causeway Blvd., Suite 200, Metairie, La. tor, Catholic Spirit, 6225 Hwy. 290 E., Austin, TX 78723. DOMINICAN FATHER to the U.S. to min- 70001. Memorials and guestbook are available at RALPH ROGAWSKI ister among the www.wc sh.com. HOW TO SUBSCRIBE ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Subscription rates are $12 for one year. To subscribe, send check payable to Catholic Spirit to CATHOLIC SPIRIT, Msgr. Ralph A. Brennan died in Austin Feb. 11 tries present where 6225 Hwy. 290 E., Austin, TX 78723. Members of a parish at the age of 82. He was born on June 14, 1929, he served, includ- in the Austin Diocese may receive the newspaper for a re- in Cleveland, Ohio, to Charles Brennan and Mary ing the vocation duced rate. Contact your parish staff for more information. Regan Brennan. He attended St. Mary’s Seminary committee, the in Houston, and was ordained a priest on Aug. 1, DCCW, and vari- ADDRESS CHANGES OR DUPLICATE MAILINGS 1957, by Bishop Louis J. Reicher. ous hospitals. He Send all address changes to CATHOLIC SPIRIT, 6225 Hwy. He served in the following parishes: associate received the title 290 E., Austin, TX 78723. Please include your parish’s pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Waco (Bellmead) of Monsignor in name and city. If receiving duplicate copies of the from 1957 to 1965, pastor of the same parish from 1987. CATHOLIC SPIRIT, call (512) 949-2443 or e-mail [email protected]. 1965 to 1971; pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Bishop Joe Austin from 1972 to 1978; founding pastor of St. Vásquez cele- Thomas More Parish in Austin, and pastor of St. brated the Mass STAFF of Christian Buri- Publisher: Most Rev. Joe S. Vásquez, Bishop of Austin Mary Parish in Brenham from 1985 to 1999 with al Feb. 15 at St. Editor: Shelley Metcalf; (512) 949-2400, the missions at Old Washington on the Brazos [email protected] and Latium. He retired from full-time ministry MSGR. RALPH Thomas More Assistant Editor: Christian R. González; (512) 949-2400, in 1999. He then served at the Brother Vincent BRENNAN Parish in Austin. [email protected] Pieau Residence of the Holy Cross Brothers near Msgr. Brennan Advertising: Shelley Metcalf; St. Edward’s University in Austin. was buried at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Br- (512) 949-2400, [email protected] Msgr. Brennan was very active in the minis- enham. Spanish translation: Beatriz Ferrer Welsh ((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Columnists: Barbara Budde, Mary Lou Gibson and Melinda Father Bernard C. Goertz died Feb. 14 in Bas- also served as a Rodriguez trop at the age of 83. He was born July 4, 1928, in contract chaplain Correspondents: Jennifer Kodysz, Cristina Lopez, Amy Red Rock to Joe B. and Anna Goertz. He attended at the Federal Cor- Moraczewski, Enedelia Obregón, Michele Chan Santos, Sacred Heart School in Rockne from 1935 to 41, rectional Institu- Mary P. Walker and Donna Poston Williams St. John’s Seminary in San Antonio from 1941 to tion in Bastrop. Catholic Spirit subscribes to Catholic News Service 52, and New York Theological Seminary in New Father Go- (CNS) and is a member of the Catholic Press Association. York, from 1971 to 72. He was ordained a priest of ertz is survived by Copyright 2012 by the Austin Diocese. All rights re- the Diocese of Austin by Bishop Louis J. Reicher his brother, three served. Reproduction of any editorial content, photograph, on May 31, 1952, at Sacred Heart Parish in Rockne. sisters and many art or design is prohibited without written permission of the He served as associate pastor of St. Mary Par- nieces and neph- publisher CATHOLIC SPIRIT (ISSN 0896-2715) is published 11 ish in Temple from 1952 to 58, and as pastor of ews. times annually (monthly except one issue in July/August) St. Mary Parish in Lampasas from 1958 to 61. He Bishop Joe by the Austin Diocese. Bishop Joe S. Vásquez, publisher, entered the Texas National Guard in 1954, and Vásquez celebrat- 6225 Hwy. 290 E., Austin, TX 78723. Periodicals Postage then served for 23 years as an active duty U.S. ed the Mass of Paid at Austin, Texas. Army chaplain from 1961 to 1984, including tours FATHER BERNARD Christian Burial POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Catholic Spirit, of duty in Germany, Vietnam and Honduras. Af- GOERTZ Feb. 17, at Sacred 6225 Hwy. 290 E., Austin, Texas 78723. ter his retirement from the military as a colonel in Heart Parish in 1984, he served as needed in numerous parishes Rockne. Father Goertz was buried at at Sacred and missions in the diocese. In his retirement he Heart Catholic Cemetery in Rockne. March 2012 CENTRAL TEXAS 3 Thousands gather for pro-life day in Austin saving lives, converting clin- thrive in a culture that tells them LIFE ic workers and even causing they cannot rise to the heights of Continued from Page 1 clinics to close, said the speak- virtue and holiness,” she said. ers. Speakers also highlighted grim reality that abortion has Another sign of hope was that while abortion has been le- killed 54 million children and the high number of youth and gal in our land for too long, Tex- has been part of our culture for young adults participating in as is a national leader in enacting nearly 40 years. the rally. Seale explained that for pro-life legislation. Texas has Reportedly abortions are them, abortion is personal. defunded Planned Parenthood, down ve percent in Texas in “The youth are drawn to criminalized harming an unborn the last 12 months. Also, the the pro-life movement because baby and made “Choose Life” 40 Days for Life campaigns they suffer the greatest loss. Not license plates available. In Texas, of peaceful, prayerful presence only have at least a quarter of before a woman can have an outside of abortion facilities their peers been taken due to abortion, she must be informed have thus far been effective in abortion, but they must learn to that there are resources available if she continues her pregnancy, have the oppor- tunity to view a sonogram of her baby, learn the risks of the pro- cedure and wait 24 hours. The day ended with more than 600 people coming togeth- er for a pro-life PRIOR TO THE PRO-LIFE MASS on Jan. 28, the rosary party hosted by the diocese and was prayed. Children reenacted the Joyful Mysteries as the University the congregation prayed. (Photo by Mary P. Walker) of Texas Long- horns for Life plained attendance at the pro- “We are a witness to the at the University life events has grown from culture that we won’t accept Catholic Center. previous years, which is also a anything less than respect for all Seale ex- message of hope. human life,” she said. 4 CENTRAL TEXAS CATHOLIC SPIRIT Vietnamese parish celebrates Lunar New Year is the Year of the Dragon. three years old, was decorated discussed the day’s reading blessing them for the whole BY MICHELE CHAN SANTOS Bishop Joe Vásquez joined with trees hung with shiny from Genesis. “God creates year. CORRESPONDENT the hundreds of people who red and gold envelopes to everything out of nothing. On the second day, Viet- lled the pews and the parish commemorate the New Year. He has made everything from namese people honor their Holy Vietnamese Martyrs lobby for the Mass, which was Each envelope held a Bible nothing. The stars. The heav- ancestors –– their parents, Parish in Austin celebrated the held in Vietnamese. Many of verse or prayer. ens. The mountains. The seas. grandparents, great-grandpar- Lunar New Year with Mass the women wore traditional “I have great fondness Finally, he creates us. You and ents and other relatives. They and a celebration Feb. 5. In Vietnamese formal dresses. for this community and wish I re ect the presence of God give gifts to children –– “Li the Chinese calendar, this year The church, which is just over you all the best for this year,” in the world,” he said. Xi,” new money placed in Bishop Vasquez said. “My He quoted Pope Benedict decorative red envelopes. prayer for all of us at Holy XVI in regard to the purpose On the third day, people Vietnamese Martyrs Church of human life. traditionally pray for good and the Vietnamese commu- “Life is not governed by jobs and food for their fami- nity in the Diocese of Austin chance nor is it random. Your lies throughout the year. In is that you continue to nurture very existence has been willed Asia, many people travel to the beauty of your culture and by God. Life is a search for see their families for the Lu- the beauty of your faith. All the true, the good and the nar New Year celebration, the things you hold dear you beautiful,” he said. similar to how Americans must pass on to your chil- After Mass, there was a travel home for Thanksgiving. dren”. large celebration on the parish Because the Lunar New During his homily (given grounds, including traditional Year is such an important in English and then translated Vietnamese foods, dancing, holiday in Asia, Holy Viet- into Vietnamese), the bishop singing and games. The rain namese Martyrs makes sure to interrupted the festivities for celebrate it every year with a a short time, but they con- special Mass and festivities. tinued indoors until the late “We want to let our chil- afternoon. dren know about our country, Parishioners ate pho (noo- about our traditions,” Msgr. dle soup), steamed pork buns, Nguyen said. egg rolls and chicken satay During the Mass, the peo- BISHOP JOE (chicken barbecued on sticks). ple prayed for Catholics in VÁSQUEZ celebrated The children enjoyed the re- Vietnam, who are oppressed Mass and attended the crackers, face-painting and the by their government. festivities celebrating traditional dragon dance. According to Msgr. the Lunar New Year In Vietnam, the Lunar Nguyen, Vietnamese Catho- at Holy Vietnamese New Year is usually cele- lics all over the world have Martyrs Parish in Austin brated over a period of three been praying for the people of on Feb. 5. (Photos by days, said Msgr. Joseph Van Thai Ha Parish in Northern Duc Tran and Thoan Anh Nguyen, pastor of Holy Vietnam. In November 2011 Vietnamese Martyrs Parish. Nguyen) On the rst day, families go See HVM on Page 5 to Mass and thank God for

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 R    A Retail Division of F.C. Ziegler Co. March 2012 CENTRAL TEXAS 5 Holy Spirit takes center stage at conference Charismatic movement in the dent the evangelization will BY ENEDELIA J. OBREGÓN diocese, “it serves to recog- bear fruit. Flores has spent 19 SENIOR CORRESPONDENT nize their work, celebrate their years in the charismatic move- successes and renew us for ment and says the Austin area More than 600 people were the future … the future of our is at a critical stage of growth. renewed in the Holy Spirit at Hispanic community in our They are looking for a bigger the rst Diocesan Charismatic diocese is tied with the fruits venue for next year. Renewal Conference in Spanish of renewal begotten through At the conference, Father on Jan. 21. The crowd packed the Holy Spirit,” he said. Arambula reminded partici- the Parish Activity Center at St. María Flores, president of pants of the call to be disci- Margaret Mary Parish in Cedar the diocesan committee that ples of Christ. Unlike in other Park to hear two Missionaries of organized the conference, said religions where the people Fatima whose talks were based about 25 parish groups were search for God, in the Cath- on the conference theme: “I represented at the conference. olic Church, it is God who came that they might have life They came from parishes in looks for us (Jn 1:48). and have it more abundantly” Waco, Marble Falls, Killeen, He noted that Jesus was (Jn 10:10). Temple, Buda and Austin. always looking at people, no- The faithful also spent time Flores said there is a free- ticing those who were over- before the Blessed Sacrament dom to being open to the looked, such as the widow and received the sacrament of Holy Spirit and not worrying in the temple donating a few reconciliation from Father Elías about what others may think copper coins (Mk 12:43). Arambula and Father Ángel of one’s response –– be it “We often struggle in life Enrique Olivera. raising hands in prayer, speak- without realizing we have to In between speakers, at- ing in tongues or crying. look up,” he said. “We need tendees sang and swayed to the “At first I was embar- to remember from where our music of Christian bands Pan de rassed to raise my hands,” salvation comes.” Vida (Bread of Life) and Em- Flores said. “But if God is lis- Father Arambula said God manuel, who also played during tening to me, there’s no need loved us before we loved him, the call to healing that brought to worry. We applaud enter- forgave us before we asked many to tears from the power of tainers and yell and scream. So forgiveness and gave life before their faith experience. why are we embarrassed to do we were born. Edgar Ramírez, diocesan so for God?” “Before you got here, Jesus director of the Of ce of His- Flores, a parishioner at St. was waiting for you,” he said. panic Ministry, said the future Elizabeth Parish in Pfluger- “Before you gazed at Christ, he of the Hispanic community in ville, said many of the faithful had seen you.” the diocese “is well linked with are immigrants and dealing He also read from the recent SYLVIA CLEAVELAND, a parishioner of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Cedar Park, prays during the Spanish the fruits of renewal begotten with adjusting to a different letter from the Hispanic/Latino Charismatic Renewal Conference on Jan. 21. (Photo by through the Holy Spirit.” language and culture and deal- bishops of the U.S. addressed Enedelia J. Obregón) “Ecclesial movements ing with discrimination. to immigrants. The signatories constitute a unique gift from The charismatic move- included Bishop Joe Vásquez. the Lord and are a valuable ment is an opportunity to turn The letter states, “ (We) wish his youth during his session he changed. He had promised resource for the church,” over everything to the Lord, to let those of you who lack titled “You must be born from God if he saved him from his Ramírez said. “It is necessary she said. proper authorization to work above” (Jn 3:7). suicidal thoughts he would con- to embrace them with con - “It’s an opportunity to re- in our country know that you He said though he went secrate himself to God. So he dence and to value their con- discover Christ in a familiar are not alone or forgotten … to daily Mass, was involved in became a priest. tribution to their service to setting and surrender all your we recognize that every human prayer groups and read the right “When I wanted to commit our community and help them problems to him and let go being, authorized or not, is an books, he didn’t really know the suicide, I was living an ego-cen- to carry their mission in an of all the pain and sorrow you image of God and therefore Lord on a personal level. tered life,” he said. “God taught orderly and fruitful way.” carry and let him heal your possesses in nite value and dig- At a charismatic renewal in me to live to serve him and oth- He said the Charismat- wounds,” Flores said. nity. We open our arms and 1984, he was renewed in the ers and there is no happier life.” ic Renewal Movement is a The renewal experience hearts to you, and we receive Holy Spirit and “experienced To read the bishops’ letter valuable instrument and reminds people that “Christ is you as members of our Catholic new life.” to immigrants in English, visit helps form and cultivate the alive in the church,” she said. family.” “It’s a real birth –– it’s not http://usccbmedia.blogspot. charisms in our dioceses, es- “In the church is the real truth “Tell me if this (letter) is not symbolic,” he said. com/2011/12/estas-son-las- pecially in the Hispanic com- of Christ.” the gaze of Christ in his shep- Being born again means dy- mananitasof-hispanic_12. munity. The charismatic groups al- herds,” he said. ing to one’s previous life of html; to read it in Spanish, visit By bringing together all low people to grow spiritually Father Olivera shared his ex- sin and self-centeredness and http://usccbmedia.blogspot. the Spanish-speaking com- in formation and serve as a perience with being born again becoming a servant, he said. He com/2011/12/estas-son-las- munities of prayer within the way to evangelize. She is con- after contemplating suicide in found the world changed when mananitasde-los-obispos.html. Prayers offered for Vietnam’s persecuted Catholics have no voice as our Catholic port for the Catholic Church encouraged parishes to adopt given to the parish by Bishop HVM brothers and sisters in Viet- and human rights in Viet- Vietnamese families. John McCarthy and the Aus- Continued from Page 4 nam. We need to take a stance nam,” he said. Msgr. Nguyen came to tin Diocese. with the people in Thai Ha’s In the early days of May Austin in 1975. Holy Cross The building was remod- more than 600 police and lo- Parish to show the world that 1975, after the fall of Saigon, Sister Ane Monica Nguyen, eled into a sanctuary with cal government of cials sur- it is unacceptable for of cials waves of refugees from Viet- who currently supervises adult classrooms, a parish hall and rounded the parish and seized of the government to beat, nam entered the U.S., wait- religious education at Holy religious education of ce. In its land. Priests and religious threaten, torture and imprison ing to be sponsored by some Vietnamese Martyrs, came to 1993, Bishop John McCar- were beaten and some were individuals for simply exercis- charitable organizations, Austin in 1988. thy elevated the Vietnamese detained and imprisoned. ing their rights of freedom churches or individuals in the By 1990, a Vietnamese Catholic community to a par- “As followers of Christ, of expression and religion,” hope of a better life. Many Catholic community had been ish level. The church, which we have a duty to speak up Msgr. Nguyen said. Vietnamese families made established and they pur- sits across the street from the against violence and injus- “We all gather here to homes in the Austin area chased property in Northeast original facility, was complet- tice, especially for those who show our solidarity and sup- when Bishop Vincent Harris Austin. Adjacent land was ed in 2008. 6 CENTRAL TEXAS CATHOLIC SPIRIT New chapel is blessed at Eagle’s Wings Eagle’s Wings, and Msgr. Louis Hill Country landscape. A gi- a 157-acre ranch that they en- he calls he will take you where he BY ENEDELIA J. OBREGÓN Pavlicek, who is also retired and ant wooden cross adorns the visioned as a retreat center for wants,” he said. “Don’t be afraid SENIOR CORRESPONDENT is in residence at St. William Par- western outdoor wall. A metal youth. The couple kept 20 acres of where Jesus is taking you.” ish in Round Rock. tower holds the church bell and for their homestead and gave the He noted that Jesus when A dream that took almost The octagon-shaped chapel is topped by a simple metal cross. rest to EWRC. called on a group of shermen to a decade in the making came with its high ceiling and double- In his homily, Bishop Mc- “You brought in others and follow him and become shers of true with the dedication of the row of large windows seats 250 Carthy, who admitted he didn’t began to share that vision and men, and they did. Chapel of the Holy Spirit at people on folding chairs. On the think the project could be done, became more focused,” Bishop “Two thousand years later Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center glass wall behind the altar is an praised the visionaries who used McCarthy said. “This is more he is still calling,” he said, add- near Burnet. Bishop Emeritus etching of the Holy Spirit. The the gifts they had to make the than a facility. It’s a celebration of ing that the buildings are not John McCarthy blessed the cha- building also contains a smaller project a reality. faith and what can happen when what Eagle’s Wings is about, pel with the help of Msgr. Elmer adoration chapel and tabernacle. “You relied on vision and you are open and generous.” “It’s about relationships. You are Holtman, who is retired and The stone used for construction faith,” he told Katie and Curt The bishop said it was appro- made in the image of God. It’s in serves as chaplain-in-residence at harmonizes with the rugged Haffner, who in 2003 purchased priate that along with volunteers relationship that we experience and donors at the dedication was God.” the con rmation class from St. Katie Haffner gave all the Thomas More Parish in Austin credit to God, saying he “made on retreat. all this possible.” Bishop McCarthy told the Eight years ago, the site teenagers that while they should where the chapel now stands was always look forward work to the top of a meadow sprinkled make their dreams a reality, they with wild owers. The center now should look back to the traditions has seven buildings, including of their faith the way Jesus did. a dining hall, dormitories and a “Along with vision we need residence for Msgr. Holtman. memory,” he said. “The years roll “The chapel is the highlight,” by; lives change. You can always she said. “All this is God-cen- find consolation in the living tered for kids to develop a rela- presence of Christ.” tionship with Christ.” Addressing the con rmands Along with the chapel, Ea- before the recessional, Curt Haff- gle’s Wings has a grotto for Mary ner said, “God is asking each and Stations of the Cross, which and every one of you to be in a are not found in other retreat EAGLE’S WINGS RETREAT CENTER near Burnet has a new chapel where Catholics can relationship and to become what centers. Joe Noonan, who got he wants you to be.” worship when on retreat. Many parish youth groups visit the center each year for retreats. See EWRC on Page 8 (Photo by Enedelia J. Obregón) “If you open your heart when

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www.proximotravel.com 855-842-8001 email: [email protected] Carmela A. Dupuis | Executive Director Celebrating St. Joseph Saint Joseph Lectures on March 17 WHERE: Saint Mary Cathedral in Bishop’s Hall WHEN: 9 a.m. to noon WHAT: Three St. Joseph Lectures presented by Father John Kim, Deacon Ron Walker, Chancellor, and Deacon Guadalupe Rodriguez Solemnity of St. Joseph on March 19 WHERE: Saint Mary Cathedral WHEN: 6 p.m. Mass RECEPTION: Bishop’s Hall after Mass SPONSORS: Senior Adult Ministry WHAT: St. Joseph’s Table: Canned Goods for St. Vincent de Paul Society March 2012 CENTRAL TEXAS 7 For those preparing for marriage Parishes encouraged to apply for OCP grants Couples planning to marry should contact their priest or deacon at least six months OCP (Oregon Catholic Press) provides music and worship resources for parishes prior to their wedding date in order to begin the marriage preparation process. Engaged throughout the U.S. The OCP Parish Grants program provides direct nancial as- couples are encouraged to inquire at their parish about pre-marriage retreats and classes. sistance to enhance the worship experience of Catholic parishes. Since it began, the Couples planning to attend the diocesan pre-marriage retreat, “Together in God’s Love,” program has provided mroe than $1 million in support. This year St. Joseph Parish in are encouraged to register as soon as possible. The program will be offered in retreat Rockdale was one of the recipients of the OCP grant program. Parishes are encour- format March 30 - April 1, July 13-15 and Oct. 26-28 at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat aged to apply for the grants, as they can help strengthen worship and prayer, said Center in Belton. Engaged couples must provide proof they have taken either the FOC- Msgr. Mike Sis, the diocesan vicar general. For more information on the application CUS or PREPARE assessment before attending the “Together in God’s Love” retreat. process, visit www.ocp.org/grants. Couples must register by contacting the diocesan Of ce of Catholic Family Counseling and Family Life at (512) 949-2495. For registration forms, visit www.austindiocese.org Lenten retreats at Cedarbrake and click on “Marriage Preparation” under “Quick Links.” “Discerning God’s Will In Our Lives,” a Lenten retreat, will be held March 23-25 at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center in Belton. The Apostles of the Pro-Life Bene t Gala is April 14 Interior Life Sisters will help participants discern God’s will in their lives dur- The Pro-Life Bene t Gala will be held April 14 at the Renaissance Hotel in Aus- ing this retreat. The cost is $155 for shared rooms or $185 for a private room. tin. It will feature Bishop Joe Vásquez and George Weigel, a renowned theologian For more information, contact Cedarbrake at (254) 780-2436 or cedarbrake@ and author of the best-selling biography of Blessed John Paul II, “Witness to Hope.” austindiocese.org. Sponsorships are also available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit A day of re ection on Holy Week will be held March 28 at Cedarbrake Catholic www.centraltexasprolife.org or call (512) 949-2486. Retreat Center in Belton. Holy Cross Father Bill Wack will help participants enter more fully into the mystery of Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection. The cost is $30, Women for Women: Awareness in Action which includes lunch. For more information, contact Cedarbrake at (254) 780-2436 The Theresians of Austin and the Austin Council of Catholic Women will host an or [email protected]. event entitled “Women for Women: Awareness in Action” March 8 from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Thomas More Parish in Austin. The program will feature presentations highlight- Teens, young adults invited to retreat ing aspects of Catholic Relief Services work for women and children around the world, Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) will hold a retreat March 16-18 at Eagle’s Wings HIV/AIDS and health issues and economic development through fair trade. Fair trade Retreat Center near Burnet. This is a three-day retreat based on the Paschal Mystery merchants will have goods for sale. A donation of $10 will go to the work of CRS. To for those who are between the ages of 17 and 24. For more information and for pre-register e-mail [email protected] or call Eunice Washa at (512) 258-5243. applications, visit www.tec-ctx.org.

MEDICAL The Vitae Clinic The Center for Environmental Jeremy Kalamarides, D.O. Medicine & Occupational Health, PA* SERVICES The Jefferson Building Anthony Hicks, M.D., MPH 1600 W. 38th St, Ste 115 • Occupational Injury Care 4100 Duval Road Austin, TX 78731 • Preventive Medicine Bldg. 4, Suite 202 DIRECTORY 512-458-6060 • Environmental Toxicology Austin, Tx 78759 The Vitae Clinic, Inc., provides wellness, prenatal, delivery and • Second Opinion (512) 832-9686 - phone postnatal care for women, expectant mothers and babies in accord • Disability/Impairment Ratings (512) 832-9661 - fax To advertise in the Catholic Spirit Medical Services with the teachings of the Catholic Church in conformity with the • Independent Medical Examinations Directory, call (512) 949-2443, or e-mail Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Healthcare services. *Member Austin WorkCARE Associates [email protected]. FAMILY DENTISTRY OPTOMETRY ORTHODONTICS Oak Hill Braces for Children and Adults family dentistry Eye Care tim tischler, d.d.s. Examination & Treatment of Eye Disease Lasik Surgery 3821 Juniper Trace, Suite 201 Contact Lenses & Optical Austin, TX 78738 David W. Tybor, O.D. Michael Dillingham, D.D.S. (512) 288-0444 2 convenient locations in Austin phone (512) 402-1955 Monday through Friday 6000 W. William Cannon Call (512) 836-7924 or (512) 447-5194 to www.drtimtischler.com 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Bldg A, Suite 100, Austin www.oakhilleyecare.com schedule a complimentary consultation FAMILY PRACTICE EAR, NOSE AND THROAT FAMILY & INTERNAL MEDICINE Joseph M. C. Leary, M.D. Dominion Family Diplomate, American Board of Otolaryngology Healthcare William Stavinoha, M.D. Pediatric and Adult Family Practice –– Board Certi ed Board certi ed in Family Including Ear Diseases Sinus Surgery Medicine & Internal Medicine 11671 Jollyville Road #102 Thyroid and Neck Surgery (512) 834-9999 Austin, TX 6811 Austin Center Blvd., Ste. 300 6301 Parmer Ln. W. Suite 102 (512) 338-5088 Austin, Texas 78731 www.stavinohamd.com (512) 346-8888 Austin, TX 78729-6802

THYROID & ENDOCRINOLOGY 8 CENTRAL TEXAS CATHOLIC SPIRIT Clarifying misconceptions about annulments Editor’s note: This article convalidated in the Catholic is the second in a three-part Church. In order to do so, that Ten facts about annulment series about the diocesan Of- person must receive a declara- 1. An annulment does not cost thousands of dollars. ce of Canonical and Tribunal tion of invalidity for the previ- 2. No one is rejected because of nancial dif culties or inability to pay. Services, which handles a variety ous marriage. The procedure of tasks dealing with the laws for a declaration of nullity of a 3. An annulment does not make children illegitimate. of the church. Collectively, the marriage is called the annulment 4. The process can proceed even if an ex-spouse refuses to cooperate. Tribunal staff worked with the process. writers to present this informa- Many people go through the 5. A parish priest does not have access to the information in one’s annulment-petition tion on the process of nullifying annulment process every year. le, unless he is one’s advocate prior to the acceptance of the petition by the Tribunal. a marriage. Many misconceptions — and 6. The length of a marriage and the number of children a couple has are not factors. much fear — often are asso- BY HARVEY BOLLICH AND ciated with the process. The 7. There is no quota as to how many declarations of nullity can be issued; each case MICHELE CHAN SANTOS church attempts always to be as is processed individually. sensitive and understanding to 8. Couples must obtain a civil divorce before the annulment process can begin. For 2,000 years and to this the stress and pain which all this day, the Catholic Church has brings to people. 9. The annulment process does not focus on the reasons why the marriage ended, but held fast to the belief that mar- One major misconception is on the reasons why it was invalid from its beginning. riage is a sacrament between that the declaration of invalidity 10. The annulment process is not adversarial; no confrontation occurs. the baptized, and that once two of a marriage makes the children people exchange consent to from that union illegitimate. –– Diocese of Austin, Of ce of Canonical and Tribunal Services marry, their marriage is valid. This is not true. According to church teaching, Another misconception is new beginning for people who sent to it. marital situation at the time the as long as a person is considered that a declaration that a marriage have been divorced. If a marriage fails, either consent was given at the wedding to be in a valid marriage, he or was invalid from its beginning The diocese offers Annul- spouse has the right to bring the ceremony. The process culmi- she cannot marry again. affects matters governed by civil ment Writing Workshops sev- case before a marriage tribunal nates in the tribunal’s judgment Unfortunately, divorce has law. It does not. The invalidity, eral times a year. The goals of to assess if one of the essential (on behalf of the church) as to become very common in our or nullity, has no effect on ali- the workshop are to lessen the characteristics was missing, and whether or not the couple’s mar- time. Many marriages are not mony, child custody, visitation tension of everyone attending, to assess whether or not the mar- riage bond was valid or invalid at successful in spite of the good rights or division of property. to offer a spiritually healing riage is invalid, that is, if it was not the time of the exchange of vows. intentions of the spouses. This It pertains only to the internal experience which alleviates the a true marriage in the fullness of is true even when a family has governance of marriage by the pain of the past, and to provide God’s intention. Although “an- The time involved been established and the cou- Catholic Church and to the con- a safe environment where each nulment” is the popular word for An annulment case usually ple’s common life has lasted for science of the parties involved. person at the workshop will be this process, it is formally called takes approximately eight to 12 many years. In addition, a declaration able to complete the writing part “a declaration of nullity.” months to complete at the rst- The diocesan Of ce of the of nullity is not a “Catholic of their annulment process. The person who submits instance level at the diocesan Tri- Canonical and Tribunal Services divorce.” The declaration states One recent attendee said, an annulment petition to the bunal, then an additional four to exists to help those who are only that a marriage was invalid “Everyone was so friendly and Tribunal is called the Petitioner. six months at the second-instance divorced (and often remarried), from its very beginning accord- understanding, non-judgmental, This person, divorced by civil level at the Appellate Court in and who now seek a clari ca- ing to the church’s laws. and very supportive.” law, wishes to marry again or to San Antonio. The Petitioner tion of their marital status in Upcoming Annulment Writ- be declared free of the marriage and his or her advocate greatly the church. No Need for Anxiety ing Workshops will be held at bond. If the Petitioner was mar- can assist in this process if the For example, someone who People who are seeking a the diocesan Pastoral Center in ried more than once, he or she petition questionnaire is fully and was married, then divorced, and declaration of nullity should not Austin on May 11-12, July 27-28 must rst submit the petition on accurately lled out, if all docu- now is remarried, might want be afraid. In fact, the proceed- and Nov. 2-3. Each one is from the rst marriage. The Petitioner ments are provided, if complete to have the current marriage ings can provide healing and a 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday and from also must consult with his or her information on the Respondent’s 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. pastor, deacon, or designated, address and background is pro- For more information, call Pat trained layperson in his or her vided, and if a suf cient number EWRC Thompson at (512) 261-8500 or home parish, who then will serve of witnesses with their names and addresses is listed. Continued from Page 6 (512) 970-7063. as the Petitioner’s advocate. The Canon Law and advocate’s role is to assist the par- In summary, in granting a the idea for a retreat center for Temple, where the Haffners had ties involved to come to an hon- declaration of nullity, the church youth in 2001 and met the Haff- been long-time members. That Declaration of Nullity est and fruitful determination of is saying: (1) There indeed was ners soon after that, said seeing brought in $30,000 for start-up Because marriage is a natural this process, which is judicial yet a marriage which appeared val- the 200 confirmands from St. costs. The Mabee Foundation institution in all cultures, the can- pastoral and spiritually healing. id (called a putative marriage). Thomas More immersed in their in 2008 provided a $250,000 on law of the Catholic Church as- (2) But from its beginning, it faith were the rewards for all the challenge grant. Professionals do- sumes that all marriages — those The Respondent (the lacked something essential or years of hard labor. nated their skills and companies between non-Catholic Christians, Ex-Spouse) was blocked in some essential “They are getting touched by also donated materials and labor. those between non-Christians, The ex-spouse of the Peti- way. (3) So from the start, it could the Holy Spirit,” he said. “You Lots of individual donations also and those between Catholics — tioner also has canonical rights in not be established as a valid mar- can feel it.” helped, the Haffners said. are valid (true) marriages until the Catholic Church, whether or riage, that is, one which has all The chapel was designed by Msgr. Holtman said the set- proven otherwise by a diocesan not he or she is Catholic or even the qualities and power to bring architect Don Logan, who died ting –– with its Hill Country hills tribunal or by the Roman Rota Christian. This person, called the about the effects which God in 2007. Contractor Don Collier and trees –– provides the op- tribunal. Respondent, must be noti ed by intends for marriage as de ned is project manager. Countless portunity to spend quiet time in The church believes that the tribunal that the annulment by natural, divine and church law. volunteers came together to build prayer strengthening their faith. all marriages should exhibit the process has begun. The annulment process is the chapel. Katie Haffner said that while principles of unity (one man and The annulment case still can meant to be primarily a spiritual Msgr. Holtman said the cen- the center is geared toward one woman), delity (faithfulness proceed even when the Respon- process of healing and recon- ter represents “people’s faith youth, adults can also come to to one’s spouse), permanence dent cannot be located or refuses ciliation. For further assistance, and generosity.” renew their faith. In the next few (until the death of either spouse), to cooperate. Information on contact your local parish; or call “It’s really a miracle all this months, Eagle’s Wings will host and fecundity (openness to the their marriage is obtained not the Tribunal at (512) 949-2400 happened,” he said. “They put the Teens Encounter Christ re- procreation and education of only from the Petitioner and and ask for the Tribunal. Also, their time, talent and treasure into treat March 16-18 (www.tec-ctx. children). The church also be- the Respondent but also from for more information on the this. They poured their heart and org) and GodStock 2012 April lieves all who attempt to contract witnesses who knew the couple annulment process, access www. soul into this.” 21-22 (www.austingodstock.com). a marriage must do so with ad- prior to or at the time of their austindiocese.org, click on the To jump-start the project, a For more information on equate knowledge of its nature exchange of wedding vows. The “Ministries” tab, then on the letter sent out to parishioners at Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center, and purpose, and have suf cient annulment process focuses, in a link to “Canonical and Tribunal St. Thomas More and St. Luke in visit www.ewrc.org. freedom and willingness to con- non-adversarial manner, on the Services.” March 2012 CENTRAL TEXAS 9 Sister Gertrude Levy: A life dedicated to service Sister Gertrude was born father said, he knew where we BY CRISTINA M. LÓPEZ and raised in the French Quar- were every night,” she said. CORRESPONDENT ter in New Orleans. Her father After making her vows, Sis- was an attorney and her mother ter Gertrude studied and earned Working is a gift to Daugh- stayed at home to raise their two bachelors degrees and a ters of Charity Sister Gertrude nine children. She received les- master’s degree. One of her Levy who joyfully embraces the sons in charity and compassion rst assignments was teaching opportunity each morning. She from her Jewish grandfather. rst grade at the Los Angeles is a community ambassador “When I was a young child, Orphanage in California. That and fundraiser for Seton Medi- my grandfather used to take my is where Elizabeth (Csoendes) cal Center in Austin. For 40 oldest sister and myself to the Meske rst met Sister Gertrude. hours a week, and sometimes on charity hospital when he went “I was 6 years old when I weekends, she busily goes about every Sunday to visit the sick rst recall meeting her and I just her day, tending to the many there. And it may be from him thought she was an angel, the things and the many people that I was inspired to care for most beautiful person I had ever who need her help. From visit- the poor,” she said. seen,” Meske said. She thought ing and praying with patients to That hospital is also of Sr. Gertrude as a second overseeing the general areas on where she first encountered mother. She mended scraped the rst oor to calling donors the Daughters of Charity. She knees, chased nightmares away, and thanking them for their would come to meet them again and made sure Elizabeth said support, she is always on the as a teenager when she attended her prayers every night. move. She once tracked how a Catholic high school run by “I remember every night be- many miles she walks in a day the Daughters of Charity. ing able to see Sister Gertrude’s with a pedometer. She averaged “I saw how they worked light on. I always knew she was almost 4 miles. together and how they took care there and I knew all I had to do A busy schedule is not out of the children, how they cared was call and that was the most of the ordinary for a woman for their students. I learned calming and comforting feeling devoted to her vocation and to there how their mission was to I can remember,” Meske said. her duties at a hospital. What is care for the poor. I just liked The two reconnected about extraordinary about Sister Ger- what I saw them do,” she said. eight years ago, almost 51 years trude is that at the age of 92 she In 1936, two months after after their time together in the DAUGHTERS OF CHARITY SISTER GERTRUDE has found no reason and has no graduating from high school, orphanage. Meske, who is 65 LEVY, 92, is a community ambassador and fundraiser desire to stop. She said her time she entered the community. She and now lives in Idaho, treasures for Seton Medical Center in Austin. (Photo by Cristina is God’s and when he says it’s recalls that her mother often the memories of her childhood M. López) time, she will know it. prayed that God would call one spent with the Daughters of “Right now I’m healthy and of their sons to the priesthood. Charity, particularly Sister Ger- years in different parts of the leagues have donated more than I plan on working as long as I One of her ve brothers did in- trude, and is thrilled to be able country before coming to Aus- $2.3 million to the endowment. can; and I think God will tell deed become a priest. But what to enjoy a friendship with her tin. For the last 38 years she has Sister Gertrude continues to me when it’s time to stop,” she her parents didn’t expect was beloved rst-grade teacher. worked in public relations and help others and she is grateful to said. She absolutely loves her that three of their four daugh- “Everybody has a special fundraising for Seton. She has God for her vocation of service. work and every opportunity ters would become Daughters teacher. Sister (Gertrude) was always cared for children, the “I pray to God that I do God sends to use the talents he of Charity. my special teacher. She prepared poor and the in rmed and she every day what he has in mind has given her. “They put us through many me for rst Communion and has loved every moment. On for me to do that day. And every “I think it’s my contact with questions, very serious questions whatever she did, she did it ef- her 80th birthday in 1999, the morning when I wake up I say people that I enjoy and I know that we had to prove that … fectively. It laid an impression Sister Gertrude Levy Endow- ‘Thank you Jesus for the new that I am helping them. It is very we knew what we were doing on my mind; it was the highlight ment was founded to provide day to be able to serve,’ because gratifying to know that some- before they gave us permission of my year,” Meske said. for needy patients at the three at this age how do I know how body is bene ting by what I can to go. But they were very happy Sister Gertrude taught grade Seton community health cen- many more days I have. In fact, offer them,” she said. that we chose these lives. As my school and high school for 37 ters. To date friends and col- how does anybody know?” St. Joseph Health System in Bryan expands trauma services

ST. JOSEPH HEALTH SYSTEM in Bryan has part- nered with PHI Air Medical to operate an air ambu- lance with a crew of ight nurses, ight paramedics and pilots. Within the year, St. Joseph AirMedical and its crews will be permanently housed at St. Joseph Regional Health Center, where they will assist in the Emergency Room while awaiting departure. This partnership will help St. Joseph reach a Level 2 trauma center status, which the hospital hopes to obtain within the next year. According to the St. Joseph website, upon designa- tion, St. Joseph will be the only Level 2 trauma center between Waco and Houston. More trauma patients in the Brazos Valley will be treated in the Brazos Valley and families and patients won’t have to travel so far away from home. If a higher level of care is needed, St. Joseph will still be able to provide stabilization care and an expedited transfer with the air ambulance ser- vices. (Photo courtesy Msgr. John Malinowski) 10 CENTRAL TEXAS CATHOLIC SPIRIT Austin priest shares ‘rich treasure’ of priesthood to the priesthood with others. be in love with Jesus and Mary. BY AMY MORACZEWSKI He recognized the power of The most moving part of the CORRESPONDENT guiding others on their faith experience was the awareness journey while serving in campus that when kissing the altar, he Growing up, Father Brian ministry at Texas A&M. One was also kissing the tomb of this McMaster did not want to evening while listening to a stu- holy man. be a priest. Like most young dent speak to his peers, Father In addition to in uencing his men, he presumed that happi- McMaster heard his own words vocation, Blessed John Paul II ness would come in the form repeated by the young man, inspired the concept of Father of a wife and children. He which kindled the awareness of McMaster’s book which is due enrolled at Texas A&M Uni- his ability to inspire a personal to be published within the next versity with plans to attain relationship with God, not only year. Modeled after the tradi- a nance degree prior to at- for himself but for others. tional Marian consecration to Je- tending law school, ultimately Currently, Father McMaster sus by St. Louis de Montfort, the preparing for a career in cor- serves as the Vocations Director book leads the reader through porate law. Somewhere along for the Austin Diocese, a role 33 days of prayer, concluding the way, he realized the Lord he describes as “a calling within in a consecration to Jesus with had different plans for him. a calling.” Father McMaster an entrustment to the Blessed The Catholic community at spends much of his time on the Virgin Mary. The motto “Totus Texas A&M opened his eyes to road visiting parishes and uni- Tuus” (meaning “all yours”) another possibility. As a sopho- versities throughout the diocese. on Blessed John Paul II’s papal more in college, Father Mc- For those considering the call to coat of arms actually originates Master changed his major from priesthood, he sees himself as from the writings of St. Louis de nance to philosophy, in antici- a companion on their journey. Montfort. Guided by the teach- pation of potentially entering the However, his job does not end ings of the late pope, Father seminary. Still reserving doubts as soon as the call is answered. McMaster’s goal is to offer a about priesthood, he maintained Father McMaster also serves as fresh perspective on a 300-year- the option of attending graduate the liaison between the bishop old concept. business or medical school as a and the seminarians of the Dio- Despite growing up in a FATHER BRIAN MCMASTER, the diocesan Vocation backup plan. But over the next cese of Austin. His travels often devout Catholic family, Father Director, stands near an icon of Jesus, the Great High few years, he became increas- take him to Houston, Louisiana McMaster said he did not neces- Priest, in his of ce at the Pastoral Center in Austin. (Photo ingly aware that Christ might be and even Rome to visit with sarily have the answers to many by Amy Moraczewski) calling him. seminarians. questions of our faith until they “The more I gave, the more While visiting two seminar- were challenged by his Protes- I received. His desire became ians in Rome last November, tant friends during college. ceived the title of “Most Ex- out of it. On one family ski my desire,” Father McMaster Father McMaster was invited “I think a lot of matur- traordinary Occupation.” The trip in Colorado, the lift oper- said. to concelebrate Mass at the ing in my faith happened be- newly ordained priest beat out ator asked, “Do we have any Now as a priest for more tomb of Blessed John Paul II, cause I took the questions a casino game tester and a singles? Ski to the front.” This than 10 years, Father McMas- the man who taught him what and looked for the answers. scuba diving instructor when sparked one man to yell “mar- ter frequently shares his path it means to be a priest and to I found myself growing not he responded to the question ried,” while another called out only in understanding in my of “What do you do?” with “I “divorced.” Father McMaster, head but also falling in love save souls.” in turn, proclaimed “celibate,” with the Catholic faith,” Fa- Even as a child, Father which caused his brother to ther McMaster said. McMaster was fascinated by laugh so hard he fell over and He likens this awaken- the ability to save. Although at broke his ski pole. ing to an old, dusty trunk that time, the saviors he emu- Celibacy was the main fo- abandoned in the corner of lated were Superman and Spi- cus of discernment for Father a room, unnoticed and unex- derman. Now he only knows McMaster, who had a hard plored for years. One day, the one Savior, Jesus Christ, a time imagining life without a desire to open the trunk and super hero of a different na- wife and family. However, his see beyond the surface reveals ture. At the reception for his view changed when he learned a rich treasure. ordination, Father McMas- to see celibacy as a “yes” in- “I think that is an experi- ter’s older brother announced, stead of a “no.” ence that God wants us all to “We always knew Brian would “It’s not about giving have with our faith, to really do something to serve oth- something up; it’s about say- discover the true treasure that ers and that it would involve ing yes to a different type of it is,” Father McMaster said. wearing a cape.” spousal relationship. I have Fortunately, it is never too Both brothers have always experienced a fuller intimacy late to accept this gift, he said. been supportive of his voca- than I ever could have been He has had the privilege of tion, but ordination was not aware of,” Father McMaster administering the sacraments the last time they got a laugh said. to people upon conversion in the nal moments of life. He recalls one particularly Father Brian McMaster touching experience when he Hometown: San Antonio walked into the room of a Alma Mater: Texas A&M sleeping man, near the point Parents: Marshall and Pauline of death. Upon waking, the Siblings: Two older brothers, Neil and John Paul man immediately grabbed Favorite Food: Fajitas the priest, pulled him near to Favorite Music: Classical and Contemporary Christian his chest and repeated three Favorite Book: Lord of the Rings LAST NOVEMBER, Father Brian McMaster (center) times, “Lord, I am not wor- Favorite Movie: Star Wars visited Greg Gerhart (left) and Sean DeWitt, seminarians thy to receive you, but only Favorite Sport: Running studying for the priesthood at the Ponti cal North Ameri- say the word and I shall be Favorite Sports Teams: Texas A&M Aggies, Dallas can College in Rome. The two men were instituted into healed.” At his 10th high school Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs the Ministry of Reader on Jan. 15. (Photo courtesy Father reunion, Father McMaster re- Favorite Vacation Destination: Colorado mountains Brian McMaster) March 2012 IN OUR WORLD 11 HHS revision ignores religious liberty concerns of Catholics and other American a grave government intrusion on stance, in these terribly restric- the employees of many Catholic BY CAROL ZIMMERMANN citizens,” Miami Archbishop Catholic consciences and on the tive mandates and this grossly dioceses and institutions. CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE Thomas G. Wenski said in a Feb. freedom of our Catholic institu- restrictive definition of what “The administration will 10 statement. tions.” constitutes a religious entity,” work with faith-based organiza- Catholic bishops across the He noted that hundreds of Washington Cardinal Donald he said. “The principle wasn’t tions, insurers and other inter- country have expressed their Catholic universities, colleges, W. Wuerl similarly noted that the touched at all.” ested parties to develop policies disapproval of President Barack hospitals and other entities of- federal mandate “remains essen- Other U.S. church leaders in that respect religious liberty Obama’s revision to the contra- fered comments to HHS before tially unchanged” and criticized Rome on a periodic “ad limina” and ensure access to preventive ceptive mandate in the health re- the mandate was announced but the president’s “ x.” visit to the Vatican echoed that services for women enrolled in form law, saying it does nothing they “were given short shrift by “Regardless of how it is char- opposition to the HHS mandate self-insured group health plans to change what they and other the administration.” acterized, shifting the cost of and the revision. sponsored by religious organiza- religious leaders and organiza- “The administration contin- these drugs and procedures to Bishop Daniel R. Jenky of tions,” he said. tions consider an intrusion on ues to insist that the issue is about insurance companies does not Peoria, Ill., said no president has The of cial said the meet- religious liberty. contraception; we disagree. It is make their requirement any less ever “tried to tell us what to be- ings would be convened “in Health and Human Services about the rst freedom of our objectionable or lessen the in- lieve or de ne what is our min- the coming days” and that “the Secretary Kathleen Sebelius an- Bill of Rights: the freedom of fringement on our religious lib- istry.” The notion the church bishops and others” would be nounced Jan. 20 that religious religion and respect for the rights erty and rights of conscience,” “must cooperate with intrinsic invited. organizations could delay but of conscience,” he added. Cardinal Wuerl wrote in a Feb. evil is appalling,” he said. Meanwhile, Bishop Blase not opt out of the requirement Los Angeles Archbishop Jose 13 e-letter sent to Catholics of Cardinal Wuerl encouraged J. Cupich of Spokane, Wash., that all health plans cover con- H. Gomez said he found the the Archdiocese of Washington. Catholics not to become com- said the current situation about traceptives and sterilization free president’s revision “troubling The cardinal said the “only placent or distracted by “in- the HHS mandate provides an of charge. and frustrating.” complete solution to the problem complete proposals presented opportunity “to have a deeper On Feb. 10, Obama an- “Unfortunately, he did not that this mandate poses” would as de nitive solutions.” He said and, on a prolonged basis, a nounced a revision that allows really respond to the deep moral be for Congress to pass the Re- the bishops’ Ad Hoc Commit- fundamental dialogue about the religious employers not to offer concerns raised by America’s spect for Rights of Conscience tee for Religious Liberty, chaired role of religion in society in gen- such services to their employees Catholic community,” he said in Act introduced by U.S. Rep. Jeff by Bishop William E. Lori of eral and the nature of religious but would compel insurance a Feb. 13 statement. Fortenberry, R-Neb. Bridgeport, Conn., would be liberty, especially as it applies companies to do so. The change The archbishop said the fact Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan working on action steps to op- to faith-based charitable, health came after three weeks of inten- the revision requires payment of of New York told Catholic News pose the mandate. and social service ministries in sive criticism that the contracep- contraceptive coverage to now be Service Feb. 13 in Rome that In a Feb. 13 phone interview the United States.” tion mandate would require most borne by insurance companies, Fortenberry’s bill would produce with CNS, Bishop Lori also Writing in the March 5 issue religious institutions to pay for rather than religious employers, an “ironclad law simply saying called for a legislative remedy, of America magazine, a Jesuit-run coverage they nd morally ob- “completely misses the point. that no administrative decrees saying, “Our religious freedom national weekly, Bishop Cupich jectionable. The issue here is not one of of the federal government can is too precious to be protected said the church “should make ev- And now questions have bookkeeping or accounting. It is ever violate the conscience of a only by regulations. It needs ery attempt to clarify the misrep- been raised over how that revi- a matter of moral principle and religious believer individually or legislative protection.” resentations about its intention,” sion will pertain to self-insured religious liberty,” he said. religious institutions.” An Obama administration emphasizing that it “is not trying parties, like many dioceses and He also said the govern- “It’s a shame, you’d think official who asked not to be to impose its will on others” by Catholic organizations, and ment has “no right to require the that’s so clear in the Constitution named told CNS in an email objecting to being forced to par- whether it could still force entities Catholic Church or other institu- that that wouldn’t have to be leg- Feb. 13 that the White House ticipate in activities that violate its morally opposed to contracep- tions to pay for –– even indirectly islatively guaranteed, but we now plans in the coming weeks to core religious beliefs. tion to pay for such services. –– products and services that we know that it’s not,” he added. convene “a series of meetings The state, for its part, should “We can appreciate the ef- nd to be immoral and uncon- Cardinal Dolan said with his with faith community leaders” be reluctant “to make national forts of the White House to quiet scionable. Again, this is not a revision to the HHS mandate, about the HHS mandate. He policy that is so in exible that the furor over the president’s question of contraception. It is a the president offered “next to said a particular focus of the it fails to take into account the HHS mandate that would violate question of religious liberty. This nothing.” meetings would be self-insured country’s diversity,” Bishop Cu- the religious freedom of millions mandate continues to represent “There’s no change, for in- group health plans that cover pich said. Cardinal urges Senate to pass bill protecting conscience ther as a free-standing bill or an man Services’ requirement that cans’ right of conscience is no existing state or federal laws, BY NANCY FRAZIER O’BRIEN amendment.” all health insurance plans cover longer subject to change, except including present state contra- CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE Calling the bill “needed, rea- contraceptives and sterilization by legislation,” he said. ceptive mandates. sonable and carefully crafted,” to decline to cover them, but The Respect for Rights of • It would not “provide any The chairman of the U.S. he said it “simply ensures that then compel the insurers to Conscience Act stipulates that support for discriminatory deci- bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life new requirements” under the provide contraceptives free of the list of mandated benefits sions to withhold basic coverage Activities called on members of Patient Protection and Afford- charge to women they insure. under the health reform law will from some while giving it to the U.S. Senate Feb. 15 to solve able Care Act “are not used to The objecting employers not forbid those who provide, others,” such as a decision to conscience protection problems take away a freedom of con- will still pay for the coverage, sponsor or purchase health cov- deny life-saving care to people with the federal health reform science that Americans have he added, because it “will be in- erage from negotiating a health with AIDS or the virus that law by passing the Respect for enjoyed under federal law until tegrated into their overall health plan that is consistent with their causes it. Rights of Conscience Act. now.” plan and subsidized with the religious beliefs and moral con- • It would not “allow any- By resolving a “needless The bishops “saw the need premiums paid by employer and victions. one to deny coverage for high- dispute,” Congress and the for this legislation,” the cardinal employee for that plan.” The cardinal also offered cost treatments, using morality Obama administration “could said, when Congress passed Cardinal DiNardo called rebuttals to some misinterpreta- and religion as a pretext.” return to the most pressing health care reform and “au- the contraception requirement tions about what the proposed Cardinal DiNardo said the of all the real problems –– thorized new lists of federally “a radical departure from cur- law would and would not do: Catholic Church, “driven pre- the fact that many millions mandated bene ts for all health rent law, under which a health • No “stakeholder in the cisely by its faith, is eager to of Americans still lack basic plans without including lan- plan that excludes contracep- health coverage enterprise” work with Congress and the coverage for health care,” said guage to preserve rights of con- tion can be sold even to federal would be required to provide or administration to address (the) Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo science.” employees if the carrier has any accept the negotiated plan. “But grave problem” of the lack of of Galveston-Houston. The cardinal rejected the religious objections to such cov- if all involved nd an accommo- basic health care for millions. In a three-page letter to sen- final rule announced Feb. 10 erage.” dation acceptable and workable, “Let us begin the task by ators, Cardinal DiNardo said the by President Barack Obama “In short, we are back to why would the federal govern- respecting each other’s values legislation, which now has 37 that would allow organizations square one –– except that the ment not allow it –– as it always that call so many of us to work sponsors in the Senate, might with religious objections to the rule so many hoped would has in the past?” he asked. for life-af rming health care for come up for a vote soon, “ei- Department of Health and Hu- change to accommodate Ameri- • It does not overturn other all in the rst place,” he added. 12 IN OUR WORLD CATHOLIC SPIRIT CRS helps Haitian quake survivors nd homes of the region around Port-au- program is designed to address CRS country director in Haiti. proach a property owner to BY DENNIS SADOWSKI Prince. a variety of needs in addition to “People were concerned about negotiate a yearlong rental agree- CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE “I’m so much more com- long-term housing by prepar- how to go about returning to a ment. Families also get health in- fortable. Now I can sleep peace- ing camp dwellers frustrated normal life.” surance coverage for six months It took almost two years, fully. Now I have my family by months of living in squalid Samuel Petit-Homme, dep- through the program as they get but Haitian earthquake survivor with me,” Mallebranche told conditions for a return to some uty resettlement manager for settled, said Niek de Goeij, head Sonya Mallebranche has a place Catholic News Service Jan. 5 via sense of normalcy. The program CRS, helps administer the pro- of programming central for CRS she can call home again. cell phone from her new home. incorporates two profession- gram, which he said takes about in Haiti. The program stresses It’s only three rooms, mak- “I am really happy to have al psychologists and 12 social six weeks from introduction to the importance of budgeting for ing it less than perfect, Mal- that house,” she said. workers to guide earthquake moving day. Before camp resi- that expense –– about $30 for six lebranche admits, especially Mallebranche’s family was survivors in resolving con ict, dents are enrolled, social work- months of family coverage –– so for four adults and three tod- among 460 families that have managing money and overcom- ers and psychologists work with that when a health care need dler grandchildren. But Mal- moved from the camp into ing the sense of loss that lingers camp and local political leaders arises, families are not faced with lebranche, 51, nds it far better long-term housing since No- two years after disaster disrupted to explain how it works and the choice of bypassing a visit to than living in a tattered tent in vember under a pilot program their lives. what it’s meant to accomplish, a doctor or to sell a possession to the fetid, dusty camp known as initiated by Catholic Relief Ser- “We realized there was a he said. cover care. Petite Place Cazeau alongside vices, the U.S. bishops’ overseas lot of fear about moving out As families complete the A special collection for hundreds of others displaced relief and development agency. of the camps, about restart- program, they are offered a $500 Catholic Relief Services will by the powerful Jan. 12, 2010, Called Ann Ale Lakay, Cre- ing their lives after the earth- voucher to assist with their re- be taken up in parishes March earthquake that leveled much ole for Let’s Go Home, the quake,” explained Luke King, location. They are urged to ap- 17-18. Alaska Cruise & Daily Mass Aboard Ship Canadian Rockies

15 Days Departs August 9 & Sept 6, 2012 from $1898* Thinking about a will? Visit the last of the wilderness-like areas in North America all from the comfort of your deluxe motor coach and 5-STAR cruise ship! Start in Calgary for your scenic six-day motor coach tour to Vancouver, B.C. You’ll visit Calgary, Banff Request a free Wills Kit from CRS. National Park, fabulous Lake Louise, take a “SnoCoach” ride over the Columbia Ice Fields, visit Jasper National Park and Jasper. Next travel over the continental divide onto the western slope of the Canadian Rockies following scenic route Learn what you need to know 5 on the Yellowhead South Highway to Kamloops, BC. Travel to Vancouver, B.C., where you’ll board your 5-STAR cruise before you see an attorney. ship for your 7-day Holland America Line cruise. Travel through a wondrous maze of forested-island and glacier- carved fjords, past charming coastal villages, migrating whales and calving glaciers to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, and Ketchikan. Debark, travel to Seattle for a tour and night, and then fly home. *Price based on inside 1-888-277-7575 ext. 7262 stateroom, price per person based on double occupancy. Outside and balcony cabins available at additional cost. Add $300 for August 9 departure. CATHOLIC RELIEF SERVICES Giving hope to a world of need. Price Reduced $200 European Pilgrimage

12 Days Departs September 3, 2012 from $2898* ROME – VATICAN – PORTUGAL – FATIMA - SPAIN – FRANCE – LOURDES – PARIS Tour the Vatican including an audience (subject to his schedule) with Pope Benedict XVI! Tour Rome’s religious highlights including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and Rome’s first church, the “Cathedral of Rome and of the World.” Celebrate two Masses in Rome including private Mass at St. Peter’s. See ancient Rome, the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore and more! Fly to Lisbon, Portugal; visit Lady of Fatima Church, celebrate private Masses at the Basilica of Fatima and Apariciones Chapel of Fatima; and tour the Batalha monastery. Travel to Salamanca, Spain; visit the Old Cathedral and New Cathedral; overnight in Valladolid, Spain. Visit Lourdes, France; celebrate Mass at the Grotto of Lourdes. Take the high-speed train to Paris for two nights. Wednesday’s Paris highlight includes The Shrine of the Miraculous Medal with Mass at the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. Thursday’s highlights include a full-day tour of Paris visiting the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, Basilica of the Sacred Heart and more! Includes 10 Breakfasts & 10 Dinners. Includes Papal Audience & 7 Masses!

Travel with Fr. Rex Italy Pilgrimage

10 Days Departs September 10, 2012 from $2198* ROME – VATICAN – POMPEII – PADRE PIO’S COMPLEX LORETO – ASSISI – FLORENCE – PISA – ORVIETO Fully Escorted + Your YMT Chaplain, Fr. Rex Familar!

Explore historic Rome. Start with an audience with Pope Benedict XVI (subject to his schedule) followed by a city tour of Rome including the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and Colosseum. Your second visit to the Vatican includes a private Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican museum and Sistine Chapel. Tour the ruins at Pompeii with Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary in Pompeii. Continue to San Giovanni Rotondo with Mass at the tomb of St. Pio. Visit the Convent of Santa Maria Della Grazie and museum of St. Pio. Visit the Grotto of St. Michael in Monte Is there an abortion in your past? Sant’Angelo, Lanciano, San Francesco church, and celebrate a private Mass at the Sanctuario Della Santa Casa De Loreto (Basilica contains a stone hut-house where Mary lived). Your Catholic Pilgrimage continues to Assisi with a half day sightseeing tour including a visit to Santa Chiara Church, St. Mary of the Angels, and a private Mass at St. Francis Basilica, We can help you nd healing and peace. Assisi. Travel across the beautiful Tuscan countryside for a half-day guided tour of Florence with a visit and private Mass at one of the greatest Gothic buildings in Italy, The Duomo Di Orvieto, whose construction was completed in 1290. Depart for home Thursday, September 20, 2012. Includes 17 meals. Your chaplain is Father Rex Familiar, Parochial Vicar at St. Is there an abortion in your past? John Vianney, in Orlando, Florida. This will be Fr. Rex’s second YMT Pilgrimage. *Price per person, double occupancy. Single room with no roommate: add only $400. Airfare is extra. We can help you nd healing and peace.

For details, itinerary, reservations & letter from YMT’s Toll free chaplain with his phone number call 7 days a week: Call Project Rachel 1-877-We Care 2 in Austin: 238-1246 1-800-736-7300 Of ce of Pro-Life Activities~Catholic Diocese of Austin March 2012 IN OUR WORLD 13 Catholic groups react to revised HHS mandate and Catholic organizations that “We unequivocally share the there are many unanswered to “comprehend Catholic moral BY CAROL ZIMMERMANN are self-insured and whether it goal of the U.S. Catholic bish- questions about speci cs. We reasoning and the full-meaning CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE could still force entities morally ops to uphold religious liberty now have the challenging work of the principle of religious lib- opposed to contraception to pay and will continue to work with of reviewing the proposed rules, erty.” The sisters, several of A former U.S. ambassador for such services. the USCCB (U.S. Conference examining their impact and giv- whom serve in the Austin Dio- to the Vatican and the presi- The letter signed by former of Catholic Bishops) toward ing input before they are nal- cese, called it “insulting” that dent of The Catholic University Ambassador Mary Ann Glen- that goal,” it said in a statement ized. the Obama administration sug- of America were among 300 don of Harvard and Catholic posted on its website. “As more is known about gested the revision would be signers of a letter who called University’s John Garvey, along Michael Galligan-Stierle, this, we will be getting that in- “net cost neutral.” President Barack Obama’s revi- with professors and other aca- president of the Association of formation out to the member- “It is simply impossible to sion to a federal contraceptive demics, and Catholic and other Catholic Colleges and Universi- ship as quickly as possible.” ensure that the insurance compa- mandate “unacceptable” and religious leaders, said it was ties, told Catholic News Service As published in the Federal nies will not pass on those costs said it remains a “grave violation “an insult to the intelligence that his organization has “con- Register Feb. 15, the nal rule to the organizations and individu- of religious freedom and cannot of Catholics, Protestants, East- veyed to the administration that said HHS “will work with stake- als who conscientiously object to stand.” ern Orthodox Christians, Jews, we are interested and deeply holders to propose and nalize their insurance policies covering On Feb. 10, Obama said re- Muslims, and other people of committed to ongoing conver- this policy” before it takes effect abortion-inducing drugs, steriliza- ligious employers could decline faith and conscience to imagine sation” about the issue. in August 2013. tion, and arti cial contraception,” to cover contraceptives if they that they will accept an assault “We look forward to more A Feb. 10 statement by the the statement said. were morally opposed to them, on their religious liberty if only in-depth, serious negotiations Cardinal Newman Society said In San Francisco, a group but the health insurers that pro- it is covered up by a cheap ac- based on religious liberty being it would “continue to work with of Catholics planned to protest vide their health plans would be counting trick.” the primary issue on the table,” Catholic colleges and universi- the HHS contraception mandate required to offer contraceptives Other critics also said the he added. ties to nd the most acceptable with a demonstration across the free of charge to women who change was a matter of seman- The Catholic Health Asso- solution to this violation of their street from an auditorium where requested such coverage. tics and still failed to address the ciation, in a Feb. 13 statement religious liberty. But there can Obama was to attend a fund- The change came after three conscience rights of faith groups on its website, said it was look- be no compromise that does not raiser the evening of Feb. 16. weeks of intense criticism that and the issue of religious liberty. ing forward to “reviewing the eliminate the mandate.” In Michigan, the Catho- Department of Health and Hu- Others who opposed the speci cs of the changes in the Last fall, 18 Catholic colleges lic conference of the state’s man Services’ contraception contraceptive mandate said the mandated bene ts.” asked the Obama administration bishops applauded the state mandate would require most revision could be a step in the “On Friday, Feb. 10, 2012, to exempt all religious individu- House of Representatives for religious institutions to pay for right direction but needed more we were noti ed that our or- als and institutions from being passing a resolution that calls coverage they nd morally ob- study because many questions ganizations would not have to forced to participate in the fed- on the Obama administration jectionable, despite a limited “remained unanswered.” buy or refer employees for con- eral contraception mandate. to rescind the HHS mandate, religious exemption. Catholic Charities USA said traception and other services. The Dominican Sisters of highlights the administration’s Now questions have been Feb. 16 that contrary to media We were also told that the self- Mary Mother of the Eucharist in “attack on religious freedom” raised over how the revision reports the organization has insured plans would be accom- Ann Arbor, Mich., issued a Feb. and urges the U.S. House and announced by the president will “not endorsed” the revision an- modated in this,” the CHA 13 statement taking the Obama Senate to pass the Respect for pertain to the many dioceses nounced by Obama. statement said. “At this time, administration to task for failing Rights of Conscience Act. Make some space…

...and time for yourself.

Franciscan sisters invite you to join other discerning women 18-30 during Spring 2012 Retreats.

Visit www.fscc-calledtobe.org

To advertise, e-mail [email protected]. The World Needs You. God Calls You. We Invite You. 14 IN OUR WORLD CATHOLIC SPIRIT Doctors wonder how mandate will affect medicine Dr. Jeremy A. Kalama- Affordable Care Act of 2010, “My patients are coming of many faiths, but at least BY NANCY FRAZIER O’BRIEN rides, the physician at the Vi- which sets up new preventa- here because they do not want a quarter of his patients are CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE tae Clinic in Austin, said the tive health care coverage spe- contraception,” Kalamarides “coming to us speci cally for mandate does not respect any ci cally for women at no cost. said. “They have witnessed the way we deliver health care Catholics who want to belief systems. That coverage includes the positive impact natural and because we follow the practice medicine in confor- “I am a Catholic doctor, services such as mammo- family planning has on their Catholic ethical and religious mity with the church’s teach- and I should not be asked to grams, prenatal care and cer- marriage and on their gyne- directives.” ings wonder how a new fed- change who I am in order to vical cancer screenings. But it logical health in general.” Nolte has experienced the eral regulation requiring health deliver health care,” he said. also mandates free contracep- Nolte, who completed same in her practice. plans to cover contraceptives The Vitae Clinic opened tion, sterilizations and drugs her medical training in 2009, About 40 percent of her and sterilization free of charge in October 2010 and provides considered by the church to focuses her family practice patients are Protestants or will affect their work. full obstetrical services and be abortifacients –– all of on providing “authentical- have no religious affiliation. Although the requirement routine gynelogical care while which are contrary to Catholic ly Catholic” health care for “Women come from other will not directly affect physi- promoting the culture of life. teaching. women, especially in the ar- states just for their annual cians, some said it represents Dr. Kim Hardey, an obste- Hardey prescribed con- eas of gynecology, infertility exams, and they bring their a governmental intrusion into trician and gynecologist in La- traceptives and even thought treatment and natural fam- daughters,” Nolte said. “They health care that could grow in fayette, La., said he hopes the they were beneficial for the ily planning. She sees the Gi- see that we treat patients dif- the future. decision by the Department rst nine years of his medical anna center as “an alternative ferently.” Dr. Anne Nolte, a family of Health and Human Ser- practice. But then he began to to Planned Parenthood” in Like Hardey, she expressed physician with the National vices and the Obama admin- see some of their effects –– Manhattan. concern that “this administra- Gianna Center for Women’s istration will cause Catholics not only on his patients but “We do exclusively wom- tion is happy to violate civil Health and Fertility in New and other Christians to rise up on societal attitudes –– and en’s health care faithful to rights” on the issue of contra- York, thinks the mandate rep- against those who would like decided to conform his prac- the” U.S. church’s “Ethical ception and could then decide resents “such a dramatic viola- to see abortion also become a tice to the church’s teachings and Religious Directives for to do the same on abortion or tion of such clearly defined required part of every medical in “Humanae Vitae” (“Of Hu- Catholic Health Care Servic- other problematic issues. But civil rights” that it is bound to practice. man Life”). es,” she said. she said nothing will ever put be overturned in court. “If we can allow the in- The 1968 encyclical by The directives, most recently Catholic health care out of busi- But, she said, “If Congress fringement of any group’s be- Pope Paul VI on married love revised by the U.S. bishops in ness, even if civil disobedience failed to pass an act that pro- liefs,” everyone’s beliefs are and procreation reaffirmed 2001, guide Catholic health care is required. vides an exemption for the threatened, he told Catholic church teaching that artifi- facilities in addressing a wide “A large number of people groups affected by this, and News Service in a telephone cial contraception is morally range of ethical questions, such would not have access if we get the courts in some incompre- interview Jan. 31. wrong. as abortion, euthanasia, care for out of health care,” she said. hensible way allow (the man- The new contraception Kalamarides uses nat- the poor, medical research, in “And we can’t let that happen.” date) to stand, then Catholic mandate, with a narrow ex- ural family planning meth- vitro fertilization, prenatal test- For more information on health care will have to make emption for religious organi- ods approved by the Catho- ing, and nutrition and hydration. the Vitae Clinic in Austin, visit a decision to practice civil dis- zations, is part of implement- lic Church to help women At the Vitae Clinic, Kala- www.vitaeaustin.com or call obedience.” ing the Patient Protection and achieve and delay pregnancy. marides said he sees patients (512) 458-6060.

E C EDARBRAKE R ETREAT C ENTER . C EDARBRAKE R ETREAT C ENTER . .

5602 N. Hwy. 317 in Belton, just 1 hour north of Austin

To register, please call (254) 780-2436 or email us at [email protected]

For a full listing of our retreats go to: austindiocese.org/cedarbrakelog

Lenten Retreat: Discerning God’s Will In Our Lives, March 23-25 LLooookkiinngg AAhheeaadd What is God’s will for us? How do we know if we are following His will? These questions help us to discover “The Plan” God has in mind for us. Sisters Brugnoli, Cavallin and Menin from College Station iinn 22001122 will be presenting this weekend. The cost is $155 for a shared room and $185 for a private room.

May 10, Day of Reflections on Holy Week, March 28 Reflection Holy Week is the most sacred time of the year for Catholics and Christians. Father Bill Wack, a Holy Fr. Chris Downey Cross priest and pastor of St. Ignatius, Martyr in Austin, will lead this day of reflection. Father Bill will help us enter more deeply into the mystery of God’s love for us, the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus’ Pas- June 1-3, Directed sion and Death, and the glory of the Resurrection. Cost is $30 and includes lunch. Silent Retreat

June 15-17 St. Paul’s Message Then & Now, April 14 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Living Your Strengths Father Angelo Bertini, Cedarbrake chaplain, will discuss Paul’s letter to the Galatians during this day of Beverly Collin reflection. Paul says our freedom in Christ comes most alive when we embrace “Christ crucified” and believe “It is not I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” Cost for this day is $30 and includes lunch.

Live from New York: My Life with the Saints, April 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Join us for our very first “Skype conference call” with author, Father James Martin. He has written many books and we will discuss his book about the saints and how we are called to live like them be- cause they imitated the King of Saints. The day will end with a one hour conversation with Father Martin via Skype from New York City. Cost for the day is $30 and includes lunch .

March 2012 PASTORAL REPORT 15 Giving thanks to those who understand the mission of the church Diocese of Austin

and give generously

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

I am pleased to present the annual accountability report for the Austin Diocese, which covers the scal year ending

ERVICES June 30, 2011. This year’s report includes nancial information

S for the Central Administrative Of ces of the diocese, sum- maries of parish nances, spe- cial collections, an overview of some accomplishments in the last few years, and the challeng- es we continue to face. ASTORAL

P The nancial information for the diocesan Central Admin-

ON istrative Of ces includes the operating revenue and expenses for running the day-to-day business of the diocesan departments, as well as health insurance and property/liability/workers’ compensation insurance pro- grams for all employees, parishes and schools in the diocese. EPORT Many good works have been accomplished through your generosity, as this

R report shows. Among these good works has been the success of the Our

INANCIAL Faith ~ Our Legacy Capital Campaign and the annual Catholic Services Ap- peal. Both have provided great nancial support to the many programs and ministries in our parishes and schools throughout the diocese, for which I am very grateful. This generosity indicates to me that many understand the im- portance of the mission of the church. 2011 F As our Holy Father Benedict XVI reminds us, “the church is alive because Christ is alive.” Indeed, the church is very much alive and we work together MISSION STATEMENT to build up the Body of Christ in Central Texas. Recognizing the vitality of OF THE USTIN IOCESE A D the church, we have responded by placing our gifts and talents in service to

WE, THE DIOCESE OF AUSTIN, our brothers and sisters. THROUGH THE WORD AND EUCHARIST, PRAYER, FORMATION, EDUCATION, As shepherd of the Diocese of Austin, I am grateful for your service and SOCIAL MINISTRIES AND ADVOCACY, EMBRACE faithfulness. DIVERSE CULTURES THROUGHOUT THE DIOCESE; SO TOGETHER, AS THE CATHOLIC CHURCH, Sincerely in Christ, WE MAY CONTINUE THE MISSION OF CHRIST IN THE WORLD TODAY.

Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez 16 PASTORAL REPORT CATHOLIC SPIRIT Diocese is blessed by the generosity of many organizations in Central Texas. The net assets for 2010 was directly related Foundation. Insurance premiums BY MARY BETH KOENIG accompanying nancial statements to distributions and adjustments as- increased by $1.3 million primarily due CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER have been extracted from the audited sociated with the Our Faith ~ Our to increases in the number of employ- nancial statements of the CAO. The Legacy (OFOL) Capital Campaign. ees and dependents covered by the Thank you for your faith and nancial statements do not include Total revenues increased by group health insurance plan combined continuing generosity to the Diocese the parishes, missions and schools in $6.4 million in 2011, primarily due with a small rate increase in the premi- of Austin. Our ability to carry out the the diocese nor do they include the to increases in investment income, ums charged to parishes and schools. mission of Christ in Central Texas de- activities of the Catholic Foundation contributions and bequests, and Total expenses decreased by $16.3 pends on your personal commitment – Diocese of Austin. The Foundation insurance premiums. Consistent with million in 2011. During the scal year to stewardship. It is our hope this an- was created in October 2007 as a sepa- improvements in the overall nancial ending June 30, 2010, approximately nual nancial report helps you better rate nonpro t corporation to promote markets in 2011, investment income $14 million of funds received by the understand our nancial statements, the establishment and growth of en- of the CAO increased by $2.2 million CAO from the OFOL campaign was our activities and ministries, and our dowment funds to provide perpetual in 2011. This investment income was transferred to the Catholic Founda- commitment to be good stewards of funding for the CAO and participating from realized and unrealized gains on tion for the establishment of endow- the gifts you entrust to the diocese. parishes, schools and other Catholic investments, dividends and interest ment funds for seminarian education The accompanying nancial organizations within the diocese. income. Income from contributions ($5 million), retired priests ($3 mil- statements are those of the Central For the scal year ending June increased by $1.4 million due to higher lion), Catholic Charities, ($3 million), Administrative Of ce (CAO) of 30, 2011, net assets increased by $1.7 than expected collections from OFOL deaconate ministry ($1 million), Catho- the Diocese of Austin. The CAO million, compared to a decrease in net pledges in 2011 and distributions of lic schools ($1 million) and campus provides programs and services to assets of ($21 million) in the scal year approximately $600,000 received from parishes, schools and other Catholic ended June 30, 2010. The decrease in OFOL endowments in the Catholic See CFO on next page Statements of Financial Position* June 30, 2011 and 2010 Assets 2011 2010 Cash and cash equivalents, primarily interest-bearing $ 6,833,762 $ 5,129,318 Pledges receivable 1,728,899 4,585,660 Receivables from parishes and schools 856,394 818,622 Other receivables 223,198 1,103,405 Prepaid expenses 602,017 287,577 Unrestricted investments 31,747,529 32,581,761 Investments restricted by bond covenants 6,106,567 5,998,022 Interest in remainder trust 495,395 1,892,533 DIAL notes receivable 87,963,159 86,961,272 Land, buildings, and equipment, net 18,290,358 19,209,961 Bond issuance costs, net 3,377,724 3,538,846

Total Assets $ 158,225,002 $ 162,106,977

Liabilities and Net Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 2,192,069 $ 2,270,064 Collections held for transmittal 961,735 608,762 Pledges Payable 604,718 874,440 Interest Payable 1,224,064 828,597 DIAL deposits 16,607,602 19,163,551 Self insurance reserve 2,045,648 1,908,184 Line of credit payable -- 2,500,000 Notes payable 250,000 250,000 Bonds payable Current portion 1,095,000 1,060,000 Long term portion 82,305,000 83,400,000 Discount on bonds payable (1,249,065) (1,229,499)

Total Liabilities 106,036,771 111,634,099

Net assets: Unrestricted 36,791,340 32,800,036 Temporarily restricted 15,396,391 17,664,862 Permanently restricted 500 7,980

Total net assets 52,188,231 50,472,878

Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 158,225,002 $ 162,106,977

*The Statements of Financial Position were extracted from the audited nancial statements of the Central Administrative Of ce of the Diocese of Austin. The entire document is available at www.austindiocese.org. March 2012 PASTORAL REPORT 17 Statements of Activities* Years ending June 30, 2011 and 2010 2011 2010 Revenues, gains and other support: Catholic Services Appeal $ 4,330,933 $ 3,966,828 Cathedraticum assessments 5,838,047 5,639,068 Contributions and bequests 2,481,385 1,057,062 Special collections 554,671 752,903 Interest income from DIAL notes 4,369,795 4,169,299 Investment income (loss) 3,856,837 1,656,565 Insurance premiums 11,117,739 9,847,228 Program service fees 1,674,981 1,026,033 Catholic Spirit 465,136 504,624 Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center 379,666 362,900 Gain on sale -- 2,974 Other 601,221 273,147

Total revenues, gains and other support 35,670,411 29,255,657

Expenses and losses: Pastoral services 3,989,907 3,245,760 Formation and religious education 3,029,511 2,987,242 Catholic schools 1,148,684 669,471 Social services 628,393 685,736 Religious personnel care and development 1,415,670 1,172,397 Catholic Charities 544,229 567,432 Communications and Catholic Spirit 751,211 792,304 DIAL deposit interest 109,489 183,741 Insurance program 9,124,826 8,502,836 Administration 1,445,816 1,316,651 Facilities and information technology 2,137,820 2,212,219 Fundraising 1,236,558 1,340,087 Provision for uncollectible pledges 8,074,000 Distribution to Foundation 50,139 14,474,905 Interest on debt 5,214,591 4,037,774 OFOL Distribution and other 3,128,214 7,950

Total expenses and losses 33,955,058 50,270,505

Change in net assets $ 1,715,353 $ (21,014,848)

* The Statements of Activities were extracted from the audited nancial statements of the Central Administrative Of ce of the Diocese of Austin. The entire document is available at www.austindiocese.org.

increased unemployment of donors ceived in the OFOL campaign, which continue to operate with a balanced CFO subsequent to the conclusion of the were donor-designated for this pur- budget in the current scal year. We Continued from Page 16 pledge phase of the campaign in 2007 pose. Funds were used by the school are thankful for the newly established at which time a receivable of $32.8 to reduce outstanding debt and to endowment funds created with your ministry ($1 million). The foundation million was recorded. As of June 30, fund general operations. Interest gifts to the OFOL campaign. The expects to make annual distribu- 2011, approximately $56 million was expense increased by approximately endowments will serve as a strong tions from these endowments in the collected on pledges of approximately $1.2 million in 2011 due to increases nancial foundation for the Diocese amount of 4 percent of the net fair $83 million from the OFOL cam- in the amount of debt outstanding of Austin. Distributions from endow- market value of the endowments aver- paign. As of June 30, 2011, approxi- combined with an increase in the ments in the Catholic Foundation aged over the preceding three years. mately $15.4 million has been returned interest rate incurred on debt. have and will continue to assist in The rst of these annual distributions to parishes through the parish rebate Adjusting for planned distribu- serving our increasing needs. (approximately $600,000) was made program. The majority of the OFOL tions from the OFOL campaign over We remain thankful for our many in 2011. These distributions greatly pledges were made over a ve year the past two years and the provision blessings and for your generous assisted the diocese in meeting the period that will conclude in 2012. for uncollectible pledges in 2010, the nancial support. We depend on you increasing needs of these ministries. In 2011, $2 million was distributed CAO has operated on a breakeven to meet the needs of our growing Additionally, in 2010, the expenses to the Austin Pension Plan and Trust basis. We have met the needs brought population and the ministries needed were unusually high as diocesan from funds received from the OFOL about by the large number of seminar- to serve the faithful. May God bless management revised the estimate of campaign. The funds were invested ians and increasing number of retired you for the sacri ces made to nurture OFOL pledges receivable based on in the Austin Pension Plan and Trust priests by reducing costs in other the Catholic faith in Central Texas. collections received through June 30, and the earnings will be used to pro- areas – largely through attrition and Mary Beth Koenig has served 2010 and reduced the receivable by vide for pension payments to retired the combination of positions at the as the Chief Financial Of cer of the approximately $8.1 million through priests in the Austin Diocese. Ad- Pastoral Center. Additionally, staff Austin Diocese since 2002. She and a provision for uncollectible pledges. ditionally, approximately $1.1 million of the CAO did not receive salary her husband have three children and The reduction was due in part to a was distributed to St. Dominic Savio adjustments for each of the scal years they are parishioners of St. Theresa weakened economy and reported Catholic High School from funds re- ending June 30, 2010 or 2011. We Parish in Austin. 18 PASTORAL REPORT CATHOLIC SPIRIT Parish nancial information* (Unaudited) Years ending June 30, 2011 and 2010 2011 2010 Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 9,837,220 $ 8,274,293 DIAL Deposits 16,607,602 19,163,551 Investments (includes building funds) 15,429,659 15,145,041 Plant assets 418,518,850 392,771,408 Other 8,773,062 9,623,666 Total Assets 469,166,393 444,977,959 Liabilities Accounts payable to Central Administrative Of ce 105,924 226,698 Other accounts payable 1,223,987 939,215 Funds held in trust 9,847,296 9,574,879 Notes payable 73,916,472 67,649,727 Bonds payable 4,850,000 4,980,000 Other liabilities 743,593 597,998 Total Liabilities 90,687,272 83,968,517

Net Assets $ 378,479,121 $ 361,009,442

Revenues Sunday, Holy Day and Other Collections $ 51,448,935 $ 50,055,812 Building Funds 7,590,128 5,443,218 Gifts, Bequests and Grants 4,633,004 2,766,324 Fundraising (net of related expenses) 4,304,200 4,473,391 Program fees 1,700,556 1,407,602 Investment income 1,291,932 1,470,802 Our Faith ~ Our Legacy Collections (Parish Share) 3,488,540 2,879,494 Other Income 6,531,366 7,629,967 Total Revenues 80,988,661 76,126,610 Expenses Pastoral services 10,380,638 10,263,518 Religious development 5,654,282 5,541,222 Social services 1,764,044 1,805,093 School subsidies 3,512,096 2,930,744 *This unaudited Plant operating and maintenance 14,902,969 13,512,494 summarized nan- Diocesan assessment 5,197,256 4,882,236 cial information Interest expense 4,116,496 3,695,104 includes the con- General and administrative 16,035,888 15,832,096 solidated balanc- Other expenses 4,173,945 3,956,672 es and activities of all 126 parishes Total Expenses 65,737,614 62,419,179 and missions in the Diocese of Revenue Over Expenses $15,251,047 $ 13,707,430 Austin.

Special collection totals Special collections are a vehicle by which Catholics can reach beyond their own immediate needs and assist the work of the Catholic Church at the diocesan, national and international levels. The following collections were taken up in diocesan parishes in the 2010-2011 scal year.

Propagation of Faith ...... $164,500 World and Home Missions ...... $164,358 Taken up Oct. 23-24, 2010, this collection helps the Society of the Taken up March 9, 2011, this is a combined collection for the Propagation of Faith bring the Gospel to developing countries. church in Latin America, the African American and Native Ameri- Catholic Campaign for Human Development ...... $143,015 can home missions, Catholic home missions and Eastern Europe. Taken up Nov. 20-21, 2010, this collection supports the Catholic Catholic Relief Services ...... $208,337 Campaign for Human Development, which empowers the poor to Taken up April 2-3, 2011, this collection supports the Holy claim their economic rights and reclaim their dignity. Father’s Relief Fund, Migration and Refugee Services, and the Clergy and Religious Retirement Fund ...... $174,337 Department of Social Development and World Peace. Taken up Dec. 11-12, 2010, this collection helps retired priests, Holy Land ...... $126,493 brothers and sisters with their medical expenses. Taken up April 22, 2011, this collection supports the shrines and Feast of the Holy Family ...... $127,452 the people of the Holy Land. Taken up Dec. 26, 2010, this collection supports Pro-Life Activi- Seminarians and Priests ...... $176,895 ties, Annunciation Maternity Shelter and Our Lady of Angels Taken up April 30-May 1, 2011, this collection supports the Maternity Shelter. education and formation of diocesan seminarians and priests. Catholic Higher Education ...... $117,168 Peter’s Pence ...... $154,117 Taken up Feb. 12-13, 2011, this collection helps support Catholic Taken up June 25-26, 2011, this collection helps the Holy Father higher education and campus ministries in our diocese. respond to requests for emergency funds from the most disad- vantaged throughout the world. Total special collections ...... $ 1,556,672 March 2012 GOOD NEWS 19

Strengthening the ‘domestic church,’ the family

B ISHOP JOE S. own neighborhoods and in our cities The church must do everything cess of human and spiritual ful llment VÁSQUEZ is the fth that are less fortunate. The poor are possible to support and help our in the certainty the Lord is always bishop of the Austin all around us and they must be treated families. We have to provide ministry present with his grace. This proclama- Diocese. He shep- with dignity and respect. We are called to our families. In the past, ministry tion is often distorted by false concepts herds more than to become persons of compassion and has been somewhat isolated, that is to of marriage and the family that do no 500,000 Catho- we are called to reach out to those in say we have had ministries for young respect God’s original plan … [thus] lics in 25 Central need. couples, for young adults, for adoles- society itself is affected and every kind Texas counties. Parents can teach their children cents and for children, but we seem of risk shakes its foundations,” the an important lesson about caring for to be neglecting one element and that pope said. Editor: Bishop, the Catechism the poor and helping those in need. is the one that binds them all together Therefore, we must keep all refers to the family as “the domestic The parable of the Good Samaritan –– we need to minister to families. I families in prayer, and we must work church.” Tell us what is meant by is a good example of one who sees a encourage parishes to bring families to restore the sacrament of marriage. this term. person in need and responds in practi- together through common activities of Families should look to the Holy Bishop Vásquez: The term “do- cal ways to help. It is not enough that prayer, education and socializing. Family –– Jesus, Mary and Joseph –– mestic church” or the Latin “domus we show compassion for the poor, we At the home level, I encourage as the model of faith for all families. ecclesiae” has been used for a long, must respond to their needs with car- families to spend time together. Be- They are the perfect family in one long time to describe the family. At ing and compassionate acts. Somehow cause most families are torn in many sense, but that doesn’t mean that the beginning of Christianity, there parents and children must participate directions, time must be set aside to they were immune to problems and were no of cial buildings designated in helping the poor. Yes, we should allow the family to nurture one another dif culties. to celebrate Eucharist, and the early pray for them, but we must connect and strengthen the bonds of love. Mary was a very young girl who Christians gathered in homes to wor- with them on a personal level, perhaps I encourage families to go to Mass was expecting a child, and through ship. We hear in Paul’s letters where he by volunteering at a food pantry or together, to share meals together and her faith was able to trust in the Lord speaks about going to different homes helping at a local shelter. We must to spend time together. Parents should and believe he would care for her where the community would gather go to where they are and reach out have ongoing conversations with their needs. The same was true for Joseph. and pray –– the home was the place to to them and set an example for our children about school, friends, activi- He came to believe and understand celebrate Eucharist. From this tradi- children to follow. ties and other aspects of daily life. This God’s plan that Mary was to give tion, we have this understanding that Editor: As Blessed John Paul is not simply taking interest in our chil- birth to the Son of God, the Savior the church is rooted in families. The II said, as the family goes, so goes dren, but it involves a personal com- of the world, and he had to trust in family continues to be the place where the nation and so goes the world mitment and responsibility given to that plan. And then there was the we learn about God, and about love, in which we live. How can we parents to love and raise their children dif culty of the birth of Jesus, which compassion and commitment. strengthen our families and thus to become mature persons. All of these took place in a stable, among the ani- Editor: In today’s society, our nation and world? things help make families strong. mals. Shortly after this, the family had parents face many challenges to Bishop Vásquez: Blessed John Editor: Many families struggle to ee because they were being per- raising their children. Materialism Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI have because of nances, divorce, death secuted; they became immigrants and and the desire for bigger and better emphasized the importance of the and illness. What is your advice to ed far away to wait until the danger “things” are rampant. How can we family and those par- had passed. Undoubtedly, the Holy teach our children to want and trust how the ents who Family had many challenges, but they in the Lord rather than in “things”? family relates are strug- trusted in God. As families, we are Bishop Vásquez: Since parents to our world. gling? called to be dedicated and committed are the primary educators of their chil- The foun- Bishop to one another and especially to God. dren in life and in faith, it is important dational Vásquez: Parents need to know they have a that they have an appropriate under- element of Indeed, special place in the heart of the church. standing of needs and wants. Together a society is families Parents who are struggling should nev- a family can prioritize what they really the family. struggle on er be afraid to ask for guidance from need and what they want. All of us Blessed John many levels. the church. Prayer is the minimum the need food, a home, clothing and health Paul II un- There are parish should do for families who are care. These are necessities; therefore, derstood that many inter- struggling because of illness, nances we have to plan for them and make families that nal struggles or divorce. I encourage parishes to them our priorities. Secondarily, there are strong that families develop ministries and resources for are things that we may want, but that provide face includ- families. We cannot lose sight of these are not necessary for us to survive. strength for ing nancial families that are struggling. We must For instance, we may want a the general hardship, nd ways to help families cope and we particular type of vehicle, but another society. Pope illness, must keep families strong. type of vehicle that is less expensive Benedict poverty and Editor: What is your prayer for may be just as good. We say, “OK, XVI has separation. families as we continue through the we don’t necessarily need that type of expounded There are rest of Lent? vehicle now because we have a family, upon this. also many Bishop Vásquez: My prayer is we have children, we need to take care “The external that we will all come to appreciate of them, we need to plan for the future family is a struggles, our own families more. During this and for their education. Therefore, we necessary BISHOP VÁSQUEZ encourages all families to such as Lent, I pray as a church we will reach need to live in a certain way that is go- good for look to the Holy Family as example of models materialism, out to the families who need our at- ing to be modest and yet take care of people, an of faith despite great challenges and dif culties. a lack of tention, our help and our support. I our needs.” indispensable (CNS photo by Karen Callaway, Northwest Indi- appreciation pray that all families will turn to the I recommend that families take a foundation ana Catholic) for the gift Holy Family as an example of how look at their lifestyle and determine for soci- of human to trust in God despite their many what the family’s needs and wants are. ety and a great and lifelong treasure life and laws that undermine God’s struggles. Children learn much by watching their for couples. It is a unique good for purpose for marriage. Pope Benedict I pray that God will bless our fami- parents set priorities and make deci- children, who are meant to be the fruit has spoken in great detail about the lies with an awareness of his unfailing sions accordingly. We must teach our of the love, of the total and generous erosion of the sacrament of marriage. presence and love. May they recognize children how to live in ways that are self-giving of their parent. To proclaim “The spouses’ love and total gift of the presence of God in each other good and supportive of family life. the whole truth about the family, based self … are at the root of this commu- and appreciate they are a unique gift Secondly, I think it is very impor- on marriage as a domestic church and nion of life and love that constitutes to society. The family is where God’s tant that families nd ways to connect a sanctuary of life, is a great responsi- the married state. Today, it is necessary presence becomes real through acts of with the poor. Often we are so blessed bility incumbent upon all,” the Holy to proclaim with renewed enthusiasm compassion, charity and care for our that we forget there are people in our Father said on July 8, 2006. that the Gospel of the family is a pro- neighbor. 20 GOOD NEWS CATHOLIC SPIRIT

The HHS Mandate is an attack on religious liberty tion of our freedoms as Americans. they should provide or facilitate the services they consider immoral. BY MARIA HUEMMER Implicit in this right is the safeguard provision of services that go against In early February, the Texas TEXAS CATHOLIC CONFERENCE against requirements that would their consciences. Exemptions to Bishops wrote to the state’s Con- force individuals to participate in employers are not given based on gressional delegation asking them to In late January, the Department actions that contradict their religious government funding received, and oppose the “unconscionable and un- of Health and Human Services is- precepts. this argument fails to recognize that necessary” mandate and urging them sued a rule mandating employers to The mandate’s meager religious the protection of individuals’ con- to cosponsor the Respect for Rights provide contraceptive, abortifacient exemption, modeled by the ACLU sciences is still not upheld. of Conscience Act, legislation that and sterilization services as part after the narrowest state-level ex- The Obama Administration’s preserves freedom of conscience of their health care plans. Uni ed emptions, is limited to organizations recent attempt at compromise is for those who provide or purchase opposition from Catholic bishops, that hire and serve primarily people perhaps the biggest straw man of all. health care coverage. The bishops Catholics across the political spec- of its own faith and therefore fails to HHS in fact issued a regulation nal- have also asked Catholics across the trum, and other religious and secular protect faith-based employers whose izing its initial rule “without change” state to contact their members of groups have resounded to oppose work occurs beyond the walls of a later that same day as the “accom- Congress to voice their concerns. this mandate, which in its purest single church building –– employ- modation” was announced. Employ- Visit the Texas Catholic Conference form is an unprecedented attack ers such as our Catholic hospitals, ers will still be required to purchase HHS Mandate web page at www. on the First Amendment right to schools, universities and charities. health care coverage that they deem TXcatholic.org/HHSMandate.asp religious liberty and the rst time in Faith-based organizations have immoral. Individuals will still con- to learn how you can contact your U.S. history that the federal govern- thrived in the U.S., facilitating the tribute premiums to the provision members of Congress and ask them ment will force religious employers, growth of hospitals, schools and of services they deem immoral. That to protect religious freedom. Let us individuals and other organizations community programs that educate the insurance company will now join with the diverse groups who see to purchase a product that violates our workforce, alleviate suffering have the responsibility to inform past the straw men in this mandate the tenets of their religious beliefs. and ultimately strengthen our nation. women about their ability to access and recognize the attack on religious Supporters of the mandate hail These organizations strive to provide those services is no concession. freedom that must be reversed. the ruling as a step forward for the highest quality service while also Without a broader exemption, women’s health and for efforts to re- maintaining a strong faith identity. religious employers will face a dire duce poverty –– but these accolades This identity is upheld regardless of decision –– to provide coverage that MARIA HUEMMER is the communica- serve as a straw man for the real the religious beliefs of the employees violates their consciences, simply tions director of the Texas Catholic issue at stake –– access to the First or those served, and is protected by stop providing coverage at all and Conference. The conference fosters Amendment freedom of religion the First Amendment. Another straw face steep penalty fees, or close up cooperation and communication liberty. man enters the argument as mandate shop altogether. Individual employ- among the dioceses of Texas. For Catholic opposition to the man- supporters claim that because many ees who oppose these services will more information, visit the website date centers on the protection of the of these faith-based organizations have no recourse against mandatory at www.txcatholic.org or call (512) free exercise of religion, the founda- receive government funding, that participation in paying premiums for 339-9882. March 2012 GOOD NEWS 21

HHS changes prove advocacy does work, so keep it up political engagement. There are plenty have not seen the same call to protect life values which teach every person BY BARBARA BUDDE who will argue that it is not worth the life from the faithful as is needed to is made in God’s image and deserving COLUMNIST time or effort to ght for what we change hearts, minds and the law. of respect and dignity. In this letter, believe, but the events from Jan. 20 to As we prepare for the Texas the bishops acknowledge that many In late January when the Health Feb. 10 prove that when we speak, our legislative session that will open at the Catholic faithful have not joined their and Human Services department voices are heard and change can occur. beginning of 2013 and examine the efforts for change. As we did in these issued a ruling regarding implemen- This issue is not resolved fully, but it views and values of candidates running past few weeks regarding religious tation of the “preventive services” is clear that we can make a difference. for of ce, we have the opportunity to liberty and conscience protection, let mandate as part of health care reform There are other issues about which our bring this pro-life issue forward in our us rise up to support our bishops’ call implementation, our bishops called bishops have spoken but these have state. Advocacy works; we can change for justice, for respect for every person us to defend our religious liberties not received the same concerted effort our state policy and end the use of the and for change in our laws that re ect and our Catholic teachings. Within from all of us or the same media atten- death penalty. our values. weeks, President Obama announced tion. Here are two that need the same On Dec. 12, 2011, Bishop Joe For more information on ending a “compromise” that he hoped would energetic collective response from us. Vásquez joined with his fellow Hispan- the use of the death penalty, visit www. address the situation. For the bishops, For decades, the U.S. bishops ic bishops of this country in writing a catholicsmobilizing.org or www.tcadp. it did not and they continue to call have called for an end to the use of pastoral letter to undocumented immi- org. For more information on com- for a legislative or judicial response to the death penalty. This issue was so grants. In it they renewed the call that prehensive immigration reform, visit protect religious liberty and rights of important to Blessed Pope John Paul all bishops have given for comprehen- www.justiceforimmigrants.org. For conscience. II that he had the new edition of the sive immigration reform. Throughout more information on the HHS man- While the media and pundits Catechism of the Catholic Church re- the last decade the bishops have been date, visit www.usccb.org/conscience. debate and dissect many aspects of vised to re ect the evolution of church calling for humane, sensible immigra- BARBARA BUDDE this controversy, what we all must thought from acceptance of the death tion reform that respects U.S. sover- is the diocesan recognize is that advocacy worked! The penalty to recognizing that it is unnec- eignty, respects the dignity and rights director of social bishops asked Catholics to act, we did essary except in extreme circumstances, of undocumented immigrants and calls concerns. She and there was change. That change which do not exist in the U.S. While for necessary reforms so that families can be reached at might not be suf cient to address all all the bishops have spoken with one can stay in their country of origin with (512) 949-2471 or of our concerns, but our voices were voice on this issue and they launched suf cient work and income to survive. barbara-budde@ heard and there was movement. a national campaign several years ago Together we can change the tone austindiocese.org. So often there is cynicism about to end the use of the death penalty, we of political rhetoric to re ect our pro-

After 18 years of prayer, Waco abortion facility is closed Catholic and Protestant — had stood, tower on a summer day in 1966. the ordinance an unconstitutional in- BY JOHN PISCIOTTA prayed and counseled for life in the Along with the tragic losses, many fringement on our constitutional rights. GUEST COLUMNIST public right of way at Columbus Avenue babies and mothers were saved through For more than 18 years, we gathered for nearly two decades. Those who the grace of God and the witness of to pray the rosary each week at Colum- Closed! After 18 years, the Planned made this sidewalk and turf a focal point those who stood for life. On one morn- bus Avenue. Parenthood Waco abortion facility at of their Christian discipleship thank God ing last year, a young couple drove to We held four 40 Days for Life 1927 Columbus Ave. shut down at the for the closure. This place of death is the Columbus Avenue facility. They campaigns of prayer and public witness end of 2011. The sign at the back door now itself lifeless. stopped in the driveway for a brief visit at Columbus Avenue. Our children used entrance displayed the message, “We The joy over the closing is tempered with one of our sidewalk counselors, but colored chalk to illustrate their prayers. have moved. Planned Parenthood of by the reality that Planned Parenthood then they drove in. About an hour later, In June 2011, Pro-Life Waco opened Waco Family Planning and Surgical Ser- has relocated abortion to its central facil- a middle-aged man drove in; minutes Hope House next door to the Columbus vices is now located at 1121 Ross Ave., ity at 1121 Ross Avenue. Nevertheless, later he drove out with his daughter who Avenue abortion facility. Suite A.” At this door, 18,000 women the closing of any such facility is a cause we had talked to earlier. He stopped and In July 2011, Planned Parenthood had entered to allow the lives of their for rejoicing for the culture of life. rolled down his window and with tears Waco announced that they would be unborn to be taken. This is 3,000 more The Columbus Avenue surgical streaming from his eyes thanked us for taken over and managed by Planned than all the students currently enrolled in abortion facility was a one-day-a-week being there, smiled broadly, and said his Parenthood of the Texas Capital Region. Waco Independent School District. operation. In the nal months of grandson was going to live. On the Roe Anniversary of Jan. 22, The Waco pro-life community — destruction of the unborn, that day was Events like this, and the realization we held an “Hour of Remembrance” Monday. The abortionist has always that there were many others unknown to at 1927 Columbus Avenue to honor come from out of town. us, led us on week after week. the innocents lost to abortion. We then From the launch of the abortion Over the 18 years at Columbus Av- drove to 1121 Ross Avenue for a Joshua business in 1994, dedicated pro-lifers enue, there were so many heart-breaking, March seven times around the new proclaimed that something terrible was as well as encouraging, events: abortion center. happening in Waco and tried to deter In 2000, Pro-Life Waco and Elijah The shift of abortion from Colum- mothers from abortion. I was a regular Ministries launched a court challenge to bus Avenue to Ross Avenue changes the for over a decade. For the last four years the City of Waco over unequal enforce- battle for life in Waco. We will revamp this involved driving the Pro-Life Waco ment of its sign ordinance (very strict at our outreach to work for the end to billboard truck out to the abortion site. 1927 Columbus Avenue). In November abortion in our city. We need support One precious defender of life, Carolyn 2001, in Federal District Court, the City and prayers to sustain our efforts. God Knowles, stood for life at Columbus Av- of Waco was required to abandon the willing, the end will come soon. When enue for the entire 18 years! “Carolyn” existing sign ordinance. the Culture of Life prevails, everyone is is the name painted on the sides of our In 2001, Planned Parenthood added invited to Waco for the celebration! pro-life billboard truck. the RU-486 chemical procedure for car- Public witness on surgical abortion rying out abortions. JOHN PISCIOTTA is a member of the day was a sad and dif cult experience — In 2006 the City of Waco approved Respect Life Committee of St. Mary VOLUNTEERS pray the rosary out intensi ed on those days when the death an ordinance banning public assembly Parish in Waco and he is the director of the Planned Parenthood Waco toll reached 20 or higher. Yes, there and demonstrations within a school of Pro-Life Waco. Visit www.prolife- facility at 1927 Columbus Ave. The were many days when the death toll zone. The Columbus Avenue abortion waco.com and plannedpromiscuity. facility has since closed. (Photo was higher than the 16 killed by Charles facility is in a school zone. In 2007, the com or contact him at prolifewaco@ courtesy John Pisciotta) Whitman at the University of Texas 5th Circuit Court of Appeals declared gmail.com. 22 GOOD NEWS CATHOLIC SPIRIT

St. Cyril of Jerusalem helped introduce people to faith God as ever kind, compassionate and reinstatement for Cyril that lled 16 raphers as a gentle man who had the BY MARY LOU GIBSON full of counsel. of the 35 years of his episcopacy. He misfortune to live in turbulent times. COLUMNIST When Maximus died, Cyril was appealed this rst exile before the Richard McBrien explains in “Lives consecrated as bishop of Jerusalem in Council of Seleucia and was vindi- of the Saints” that Cyril was attacked When something is truly valuable, about 350. There was much contro- cated and reinstated two years later. by both sides on doctrinal matters. it usually stands the test of time and versy in the church at this time over However, Acacius obtained a second On the one hand, he was attacked becomes an important treasure for the human and divine natures of degree of exile against Cyril within a by those loyal to the teaching of the generations to come. Such are the lec- Christ. Paul Burns noted in “Butler’s year. Council of Nicaea that Christ is of tures delivered orally and later written Lives of the Saints” that Cyril tried to The death of Constantine in 361 the same substance with God the by St. Cyril of Jerusalem for instruct- seek peaceful resolutions to the argu- ended the recall of all bishops and Father. On the other hand, he was ing the catechumens and newly ments while upholding orthodox doc- Cyril was once again returned to Jeru- attacked by the Arians who held that baptized. These discourses include trine against Arianism, a heresy that salem. His last banishment occurred Christ was the greatest of creatures 24 areas of instructions delivered in denied the divinity of Jesus and was in 367 and he remained in exile until but not divine. Lent to those preparing for baptism. widespread in the Roman Empire. 378. He nally returned to Jerusalem Cyril died in Jerusalem in 386 at Today, St. Cyril is a model for those Not only did Cyril nd himself to live out the last eight years of his about 70 years of age. His feast day involved in the Rite of Christian embattled in ghting this heresy, life. is March 18 and it is on the General Initiation of Adults (RCIA) programs, but soon after he became bishop, he On his nal return, Cyril found Roman Calendar and is also celebrat- the process by which adults are intro- came into con ict with Acacius of a city consumed with heresy and ed by the Russian Orthodox Church. duced to the Catholic faith. Caesarea over a question of juris- strife. He was never able to put He is also commemorated by the Writer Bernard Bangley reports diction and matters of faith. The things completely right. There was Church of England and the Episcopal in “Butler’s Lives of the Saints” that disagreement became open strife schism and appalling crimes that tore Church in the U.S. Cyril was declared Cyril expressed a positive faith in his between the two men. Editor Michael Jerusalem apart. In 381, Cyril and a doctor of the church in 1882 by discourses. He insisted on a relation- Walsh writes in “Butler’s Lives of Gregory of Nyssa were at the Council Pope Leo XIII. ship of faith and action, stating that the Saint” that Acacius called a small of Constantinople where the Nicene “Pious doctrine is not acceptable to council of bishops, but Cyril refused Creed and orthodoxy triumphed and God without good works.” to appear. In his absence, Cyril was Arianism was nally condemned. As a newly ordained priest, he accused of selling church property Cyril nally received justice at this MARY LOU GIBSON is was given the job of instructing the during a famine to relieve the poor. same Council. He was cleared of all a member of St. Aus- catechumens by his bishop, St. Maxi- He acknowledged doing this and the previous rumors and commended tin Parish in Austin. mus. Cyril treated these new candi- council condemned him and had him for ghting “a good ght in various She is a retired state dates for Catholicism with tenderness banished from Jerusalem. places against the Arians.” employee. and great solicitude. He wrote about This began a pattern of exile and Cyril was described by many biog-

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Silence in mind, voice can lead to deeper faith If we are going to cultivate the silence, prayerful meditation and family communication. Shut them BY JOE TOWALSKI value of silence in our lives, how- re ection. down, share a prayer and a meal to- GUEST COLUMNIST ever, it will take more than just si- Check your parish bulletin or gether, and then play a board game lencing our voices. We also have to diocesan newspaper calendar sec- or enjoy another family activity. Silence as an essential part of silence our minds from time to time tion for upcoming opportunities Silence here is not the focus, but communication seems at rst to by unplugging from the 24-hour for silent retreats around the area. it’s an opportunity worth seizing be a contradiction. Silence may cycles of news, entertainment and Or make a point to visit one of the to nurture better communication be golden, some would say, but social media so we have the “mental many eucharistic adoration chapels in other ways among husbands and it won’t help you get your point wives, parents and children. across to others in a world domi- Pope Benedict wrote that “if nated by a steady stream of voices God speaks to us in silence, we, in and information owing nonstop turn, discover in silence the pos- from televisions, radios, computer sibility of speaking with God and monitors and smartphones. about God.” But Pope Benedict XVI, in his Silencing our voices and our latest message for World Communi- minds can help us deepen our rela- cations Day, reminds us that silence tionship with God and broaden our plays a vital role in our communi- awareness of his presence in our cation with others: It forces us to life. Silence coupled with attentive listen more closely, evaluate ideas listening can also help us deepen more thoroughly, and temper our our relationships with others we responses. space” to rejuvenate ourselves and for an hour or even a few minutes encounter every day of our lives in Who wouldn’t like to see more re ect more deeply on our lives, once per week. our families, workplaces and com- of that kind of communication our relationships and the world If you enjoy the outdoors, take munities. taking place during presidential around us. advantage of area nature trails and debates or television talk shows? Many of us try to do something state parks for some quiet time Or during discussions on important extra for our spiritual lives dur- alone to pray and contemplate the social policy issues facing our state ing the season of Lent –– which beauty of God’s creation. and nation? Or, even in our work- began Feb. 22, Ash Wednesday. If Spend some time at home as JOE TOWALSKI is the editor of places and around our family dinner you haven’t already committed to a a family with televisions, radios, The Catholic Spirit, newspaper of tables, where all of us have trouble Lenten program –– and even if you phones and computers turned off. the Archdiocese of St. Paul and at times not interrupting or raising have –– book some additional time These media –– as valuable as they Minneapolis. our voices? right now during those 40 days for are –– can sometimes interfere with Beck Funeral Home

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President, Holy Trinity Catholic School in Grapevine Holy Trinity Catholic School (www.holytcs.org), PK4-8, in the Diocese of Fort Worth, Texas, is searching for a visionary President to lead and inspire into the future. This challenging new position requires a con dent, experienced, and faith- lled leader who is a strategic thinker and planner, with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Successful candidates will understand and embrace the President-Principal model of elementary school administration and be attentive to the school’s Catholic identity. Candidates must be members in good standing of the Catholic faith. They must demon- strate expertise and experience in nancial management and institutional advancement, including marketing, public relations and fundraising. Applicants must exhibit a strong business background and hold an academic degree. Masters degree preferred. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. Starting date is July 1, 2012. Quali ed candidates should submit electronically (1) introduction letter addressing the require- ments/skills listed above; (2) resume; (3) names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of ve professional references; (4) statement addressing the value of today’s Catholic elementary school, including its unique Catholic identity, to: Holy Trinity Catholic School Search, Catholic School Management, Inc., Attn: Jennifer C. Kensel, at of [email protected]. Review of applications begins March 15, 2012. 24 GOOD NEWS CATHOLIC SPIRIT Celebrating Catholic Schools Event honors those committed to Catholic education The fourth annual Celebrating Catholic Schools Dinner and Awards Ceremony was held Jan. 28 at the Westin Hotel in Austin. The event brought together hundreds of people to celebrate the gift of Catholic education in the Austin Diocese. Funds raised through the event will be returned to the Catholic schools to aid in their nancial assistance programs. Bishop Joe Vásquez and Ned Vanders, the diocesan superintendent of Catholic schools, presented honorees from each Catholic school an award for their leadership and service. This year more than 550 people attended the event, which was the largest crowd to date. Matthew Kelly, an internationally acclaimed motivational speaker and bestselling author, was the keynote speaker for the evening. “I am so pleased that we will be returning a record amount back to the schools this year to support tuition assistance programs,” Vanders said. Kelly spoke about the importance of telling the story of the Catholic faith. The Catholic Church has provided affordable health care and education to millions of people in the U.S.; however, that is the not the story the media tells, he said. “We need to know our story spiritually, and we need to tell it. We need to live it!” he said. VOLUNTEERS AND LEADERS from each of the Catholic schools in the Austin Diocese were honored for their leadership and service Kelly thanked the attendees for envisioning a bigger future for Catholic schools in during the fourth annual Celebrating Catholic Schools Dinner and Central Texas. Awards Ceremony on Jan. 28. (Photo by Shelley Metcalf) “The 5,000 children attending Catholic schools are going to in uence all walks of life in the years to come. They are going to share the values and virtues they learn in Catholic schools with the rest of the world, and that is reason for great hope,” he said. The people from each school who were honored are listed below and continue on Page 25.

Linda Edwards- Louis and Vera† Donald and Mary Gockel DeMarco Dwyer St. Theresa’s Catholic St. Joseph Catholic School, St. Louis Catholic School, Austin Killeen School, Waco

Frances Guenther Kenneth Hausmann Sandra Murry and Sacred Heart Catholic St. Dominic Savio Catholic Kathleen Hutten- School, La Grange High School hower Cathedral School of Saint Mary, Austin

Will and Candace Laura MacLean Msgr. Richard E. Mc- Kapavik San Juan Diego Catholic Cabe† St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Austin St. Michael’s Catholic Acad- School, West emy, Austin

John H. McManus Celeste Minick Gary Mink St. Gabriel’s Catholic Santa Cruz Catholic School, Holy Family Catholic School, Austin Austin School, Austin March 2012 GOOD NEWS 25

David Nemec Cosette Nolen Sen. Stephen and Reicher Catholic High St. Ignatius, Martyr Catho- Mrs. Beverly Ogden School, Waco lic School, Austin St. Joseph Catholic School, Bryan

Rene Rodriguez Eileen R. Rosipal Mary Pat and John Holy Trinity Catholic High St. Louis Catholic School, Schneider Jr. School, Temple Austin St. Austin Catholic School, Austin

Bertha Zavala Not photographed: St. Helen Catholic School, Georgetown Yolanda Cortes-Mares St. Mary’s Catholic School, Temple 26 BULLETIN BOARD CATHOLIC SPIRIT NFP classes...... For Your An introductory session to the League will offer a natural family plan- Creighton Model of natural family ning Introduction Seminar March 18 at planning will be held March 5 at 7 3 p.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Information p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Center in Austin. The class will satisfy the Austin College Station. Learn how women Diocese requirement for marriage. To can understand and monitor their re- register call Sam and Katrina Hartsock productive health. Learn how couples at (512) 899-8294. Theology on Tap, a ministry for pre-register e-mail Gerri Misko at gerri. can naturally plan their family. Regis- An introductory session on the young adults, will meet March 7 at [email protected] or call Eunice tration fee is $20. To register online Creighton Model of natural family Nuevo Leon in Austin. Life in this Washa at (512) 258-5243. visit www.aggiecatholic.org/fccsm or planning will be held March 24 at 10 a.m. century is hard enough with work, tech- The Catholic Charismatic Re- e-mail [email protected]. at Seton Williamson in Round Rock. To nology, families and friends, but even newal of Austin (CCRA) will host A series of classes on the Sympto- register, e-mail name and the date of the with all these distractions we are still its monthly Mass March 9 at 7 p.m. at Thermal Method of natural family class to [email protected]. called to be saints. Holy Cross Father Holy Cross Parish in Austin. These joy- planning will be held beginning March A series of classes on the Billings Bill Wack, pastor at St. Ignatius, Martyr ful Spirit- lled Masses offer everyone 13 at 7 p.m. at St. Mary Cathedral in Method of natural family planning will Parish in Austin, will present ways of a great opportunity to experience and Austin. The classes are spaced about one begin March 29 at 7 p.m. at St. William growing into a saint in the 21st century. rediscover the power Jesus promised month apart and will help couples learn Parish Education Center Room 24/26 in Music will begin at 6 p.m. and the pre- us through the Holy Spirit. For more how to identify the three common signs Round Rock. The complete course costs sentation will begin at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Sabrina Perez at of fertility and infertility. To register $100 and is comprised of three classes. information, contact Angie Harmon (512) 466-7669. or for more information, visit http:// For more information or to make res- at [email protected] or The Austin Rosary Crusade will register.ccli.org. ervations, contact Amanda and Ryan (512) 949-2467. celebrate their 37th anniversary with a The Austin Couple to Couple Ransom at [email protected] The Catholic Business Network retreat in Spanish on March 10 from will hold its next meeting March 7 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St Ignatius, Martyr at 7:30 a.m. at St. William’s Parish Parish Hall in Austin. The program con- Retreats...... Center in Round Rock. All Catholic sists of a light breakfast, music, rosary, “Discerning God’s Will In Our will be held March 28 at Cedarbrake business professionals are invited to confessions, exposition of the Blessed Lives,” a Lenten retreat, will be held Catholic Retreat Center in Belton. attend and network in an effort to Sacrament and Mass. Admission is free. March 23-25 at Cedarbrake Catholic Holy Cross Father Bill Wack will help form trusted relationships based on Lunch is $5 for adults and free for chil- Retreat Center in Belton. The Apos- participants enter more fully into the Catholic values. Spiritual development dren. For more information, call Ignacio tles of the Interior Life Sisters will mystery of Jesus’ passion, death and is an integral part of all meetings. For Moreno, coordinator at (512) 443-4111 help participants discern God’s will in resurrection. The cost is $30, which details and to register to attend, visit or (512) 940-0698. their lives during this retreat. The cost includes lunch. For more information, www.catholicbiznetwork.org. This is not Five lay people, members of is $155 for shared rooms or $185 for contact Cedarbrake at (254) 780-2436 a ministry of the Diocese of Austin. Sacred Heart Secular Franciscan a private room. For more informa- or [email protected]. Catholic Scripture Study is in its Fraternity, will make their lifelong tion, contact Cedarbrake at (254) 780- “Together in God’s Love,” a mar- 12th year in Austin. The study meets profession to follow Christ in the 2436 or cedarbrake@austindiocese. riage preparation retreat, will be held on Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. at St. manner of St. Francis of Assisi on org. March 30-April 1 at Cedarbrake Catho- Louis Parish in Austin (a group also March 10 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Par- The Ladies of Charity of Austin lic Retreat Center in Belton. Couples meets at St. Margaret Mary Parish in ish in Bryan. The Rite of Permanent will hold their annual Day of Re ection preparing for marriage are encouraged Cedar Park). This year the two-hour Profession marks the end of several March 22 at St. Vincent de Paul Parish to register as soon as possible, as these sessions will be studying prophets and years of preparation and begins a life- in Austin. The day will begin at 9:30 retreats ll quickly. The weekend in- apostles. Classes consist of prayer, long commitment to live the Gospel a.m. and continue until 1:30 p.m. Father cludes talks on faith, communication, small group discussion, lecture, and as lay people in the world as members Louis Brusatti of Austin will be the fa- sexuality and stewardship in the context fellowship. The first Wednesday of of the Secular Franciscan Order, the cilitator. A pot luck lunch will be served of Catholic marriage. For registration every month is Intro Day, where visi- third order founded by St. Francis in at the end of the event. All members of information, contact your parish or tors are invited throughout the year to 1221. The Rite of Profession will be the Ladies of Charity of the Austin area the Catholic Family Life and Family attend a session and register for class. celebrated in the context of the Mass and their guests are invited to attend. Counseling Of ce at (512) 949-2495 or For more information, visit www. and a reception will follow. For more A day of re ection on Holy Week [email protected]. cssaustin.org or contact Patty Hogan information, contact Sharon Toups at (Austin classes) at (512) 267-4789 or (512) 365-3575. [email protected] or Bob Gorski Pax Christi Austin will meet March Discernment...... (Cedar Park classes) at (512) 636- 18 at 7 p.m. at the Father John Payne A Discernment Dinner for high A Discernment Dinner for single, 2927. House at St. Ignatius, Martyr Parish in school age, Catholic men will be held Catholic men (ages 18 and older) with Sarah’s Hope is a free spiritual sup- Austin. Pax Christi Austin, which meets March 7 at 7 p.m. at St. William Parish an openness to a priestly vocation and port program for couples struggling with the third Sunday of every month, is a Rectory in Round Rock. Men with an discernment will be held March 14 fertility problems or pregnancy loss. The member of Pax Christi International and openness to encountering Christ, discov- from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Borromeo next women’s support group meeting Pax Christi USA, the Catholic peace and ering their identity, and their mission are House in Austin. The evening includes is March 7 and April 4; the rosary will justice movement that works and prays invited to join others for dinner, evening dinner, prayer, and a presentation with be prayed at 6:45 p.m. and discussion to create a world that re ects the peace prayer, a presentation, and discussion. discussion on topics. For more informa- begins at 7 p.m. at the Vitae Clinic in of Christ. For more information, contact For more information contact Father tion, contact Father Brian McMaster at Austin, 1600 W. 38th St., suite 115. For Bob Rankin at [email protected]. Jonathan Raia at (512) 255-4473 or (512) 949-2405 or fr-brian-mcmaster@ questions or to sign up, contact Sarah- All are invited to collectively make [email protected]. austindiocese.org. [email protected]. Sarah’s Hope or renew their “Total Consecration to is not a ministry of the Austin Diocese. Jesus through Mary” on the Annuncia- The Theresians of Austin and tion of the Lord. Rosary and Mass will the Austin Council of Catholic Women be offered on March 26 at St. Mary Ca- Send in your items! will host an event entitled “Women for thedral in Austin at 6 p.m. (Msgr. Mike CATHOLIC SPIRIT offers this page, “For Your Women: Awareness in Action” March Sis will preside), Immaculate Heart of Information,” as a “community bulletin board.” 8 from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Thomas More Mary Parish in Martindale at 6:30 p.m., Items of general interest of upcoming parish and Parish in Austin. The program will fea- Santa Cruz Parish in Buda at 6:30 p.m. ture presentations highlighting aspects of (Msgr. Joseph Deane will preside), and diocesan events, including parish social events, Catholic Relief Services work for women St. William Parish in Round Rock at 6:15 will be printed at no charge at the discretion of and children around the world, HIV/ p.m. (Father Jonathan Raia will preside). the editor. The deadline for material is the 10th AIDS and health issues and economic Visit www.TexasToJesusThroughMary. of the month, with publication occurring the development through fair trade. Fair org for more information. rst week of the following month. Material may trade merchants will have goods for sale. Diocesan of ces will be closed Doors open at 6 p.m. and a donation April 6 in observance of Good Friday be e-mailed to catholic-spirit@austindiocese. of $10 will go to the work of CRS. To and April 9 in observance of Easter. org or faxed to (512) 949-2523. March 2012 BULLETIN BOARD 27 Parish and community events...... Young wives and mothers are more information, contact Nancy Biehler more about their community and its host its fifth annual golf tournament invited to a bi-weekly Bible study on at (512) 328-3220 ext. 108 or nbiehler@ contribution to Catholic education in our March 31 at Delaware Springs in Burnet. Mondays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at St. John sjnaustin.org. country. For more information or to reg- The four-person scramble will begin with Neumann Parish in Austin. The study The Notre Dame Glee Club will ister, please call Sr. Elizabeth Ann at (512) a shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. The fee is $60 is based on “Reasons for Our Hope,” perform March 14 at 7 p.m. at Emmaus 949-2436 or visit www.sistersofmary.org/ per player, which includes green fees, cart, which goes through the Gospel of Luke. Parish in Lakeway. The concert is open to austinbene t. range balls and meal. There will be a grand Child care will be offered for a fee. For the public and will be free. Donations will An ACTS Retreat for women will prize of $5,000. For more information, more information, contact Jen Crowley be accepted to cover the group’s travel be held March 22-25 at St. Mary, Church call Roy Salazar at (512) 355-2833. at (512) 328-3220, ext. 121, or jcrowley@ expenses. of the Assumption Parish in West. For a Single Catholic women ages 18 sjnaustin.org. Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) registration form or for more informa- to 50 who are discerning God’s call are Dolores Parish in Austin will serve will hold a retreat March 16-18 at Eagle’s tion, contact Karen at (254) 495-5682 or invited to attend a “Come and See” cheese enchilada plates during Lent on Wings Retreat Center near Burnet. This [email protected]. weekend at Incarnate Word Convent in Fridays March 2, 9 and 16 from 11 a.m. is a three-day retreat based on the Paschal Dolores Parish in Austin will host Victoria on March 31-April 1. For more to 7 p.m. Capirotada and cakes will also Mystery for those who are between the a Lenten Fish Fry March 23, 30 and information, visit www.iwbsvictoria.org, be sold. ages of 17 and 24. For more information April 6 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Capir- call (361) 575-7111 or e-mail iwbsvoc@ The Knights of Columbus Council and for applications, visit www.tec-ctx. otada and cakes will also be sold. yahoo.com. of Caldwell will host Fish Fry Friday org. The Third Annual Savio Bookfair St. Joseph Parish in Cyclone will Dinners March 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 4:30 Bishop Emeritus John McCarthy will be held March 24 from 1 to 5 p.m. at host its annual Springfest April 1 from to 6:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s gym in Caldwell. will dedicate the new church at St. John the Barnes and Noble at 14010 Hwy. 183 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Homefried chicken, The cost is $8 per plate. Neumann Parish in Austin March 17 at in Austin. Activities include storytime, sausage, dressing, cole slaw, noodles and St. John Neumann Parish in Aus- 3 p.m. The dedication will be followed robotics, poetry recitation and band and dessert will be served for $8 per plate. tin will host a Fish Fry at 6 p.m. and the by music, dancing and dinner. For more choir performances. A percentage of the Other activities include homemade baked Stations of the Cross will follow at 7 information, visit www.sjndedication. purchases made at Barnes and Noble will goods, a silent auction and more. p.m. on the Fridays during Lent. Dinner eventbrite.com. bene t the St. Dominic Savio Catholic The annual Chrism Mass is April includes fried cat sh, cole slaw, fries and St. William Parish in Round Rock High School Library (submit “Bookfair 3 at 10:30 a.m. at St. William Parish in hush puppies. Suggested donation is $5 or will celebrate Father Dean Wilhelm’s 50th ID #10686640” at checkout in store Round Rock. $15 for families. birthday on March 17 at 7 p.m. at Dell March 24-26 and online March 24-29). St. Mary Cathedral Parish in Aus- Between the Masses, an adult faith Diamond’s United Heritage Center in A Killeen Prayer Vigil for Life is tin will hold its annual Spring Gala formation series, is underway at St. John Round Rock. Tickets are $50 each, and all March 24 and will begin with Mass at bene ting the Cathedral School of St. Neumann Parish in Austin on Sundays at proceeds will go to reducing the parish’s 8:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Parish in Killeen Mary on April 12 at 6 p.m. Highlights 10:15 a.m. in the St. Timothy Room. For debt and moving from “Maintenance to followed by a caravan and procession of the evening include a performance by Mission.” For more information, contact at 9:45 a.m. to pray the rosary at Killeen members of the Cathedral’s renowned Ana-Cristina González at (512) 600-8179 Women’s Health Center. All will return Schola Cantorum, live and silent auc- Burse or [email protected]. Sponsor- to St. Joseph for closing and fellowship tions and dinner. To purchase tickets or The Diocesan Council of Catholic ship and tickets can be purchased online at 11:15 a.m. sponsorships, contact Greg Vidal or Su- Women has completed a burse for by visiting www.saintwilliams.org. Young adults in their 20s and 30s, san Leach at (512) 476-6182. For more the Clerical Endowment Fund (CEF) An Austin Prayer Vigil for Life is married or single, with children or with- information, visit www.smcaustin.org. in honor of Rudolph and Mary Till. scheduled for March 17 at St. Catherine out, are invited to join St. John Neumann The Pro-Life Bene t Gala will be The totals for the burse as of Jan. 31, of Siena Parish in Austin. Mass will begin Parish in Austin for worship, food and held April 14 at the Renaissance Hotel in 2012, are listed below by council. at 7 a.m., followed by adoration of the fellowship. Young adults meet on the Austin. It will feature Bishop Joe Vásquez Austin Council $481.00 Blessed Sacrament in the church and a fourth Sunday of each month for 11:30 and George Weigel, a renowned theolo- Brazos Valley Council $566.00 caravan will travel to Planned Parenthood a.m. Mass and brunch. The next meet- gian and author of the best-selling biogra- Central Council $484.00 where the rosary will be prayed from 8:20 ing will be March 25. Gathering begins phy of Blessed John Paul II, “Witness to Eastern Council $740.00 to 9:50 a.m. Benediction will follow at St. prior to Mass near the St. John Neumann Hope.” Sponsorships are also available. Northern Council $1,485.00 Catherine at 10:30 a.m. Refreshments will statue; after Mass, participants will go to a For more information and to purchase Southern Council $788.00 be served. All are invited to attend. For local restaurant for brunch. tickets, visit www.centraltexasprolife.org Temple Council $613.00 more information, contact Bob Christian- Hispanic young adults are invited or call (512) 949-2486. Previous Balance $4,757.52 sen at (512) 255-8551. to Mass (in Spanish) March 30 at 9 “The Virtues in Scripture,” a lec- Total $9,914.52 The Dominican Sisters of Mary, p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in ture series, will be presented April 15 at The Clerical Endowment Fund pro- Mother of the Eucharist will host a Austin. Participants will pray the rosary 6:45 p.m. in the school library at St. Mary vides low-cost loans to parishes. Interest Bene t Luncheon March 22 at the his- beginning at 8:30 p.m. For more infor- Cathedral in Austin. Father Michael from the loans is used to educate diocesan toric Driskill in downtown Austin. The mation contact Juan Torres at (512) 415- Therese Scheerger of the Community of seminarians. For information, contact ei- Dominican Sisters are currently teaching 5908 or Lily Morales at (512) 363-3609 or St. John will be the presenter. For more ther Father Ed Karasek at (254) 826-3705 in three schools in the Austin Diocese. [email protected]. information, contact Celia Martinez at or Mary Ann Till at (512) 353-4943. They invite the public to come and learn Holy Cross Parish in Bertram will (512) 441-9914 or [email protected].

Pastoral support for victims of sexual abuse The Diocese of Austin is committed to providing con dential and compassionate care to victims of sexual abuse, particularly if the abuse was committed by clergy or a church representative. If you have experienced abuse by someone representing the Catholic Church, please contact the diocesan coordinator of pastoral care at (512) 949-2400. Apoyo pastoral a las víctimas de abuso sexual La Diócesis de Austin se compromete a proporcionar ayuda con dencial y compasiva a las víctimas de abuso sexual, especialmente si el abuso fue cometido por el clero o un representante de la iglesia. Si usted ha sufrido abusos por parte de alguien que representa la Iglesia Católica, por favor comuníquese con el coordinador diocesano del cuidado pastoral al (512) 949-2400. How to report an incident of concern The Diocese of Austin is committed to preventing harm from happening to any of our children or vulnerable adults. If you are aware of sexual or physical abuse and/or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult, state law requires you to report that information to local law enforcement or the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services at (800) 252-5400 or www.dfps.state.tx.us. Additionally, if the suspected abuse is by clergy or an employee or volunteer of any diocesan parish, school or agency, a Con dential Notice of Concern should be submitted to the diocesan Ethics and Integrity in Ministry Of ce at (512) 949-2400. The Con dential Notice of Concern can be found at www.austindiocese.org (click on the link HOW TO REPORT ABUSE). Reports may be made anonymously. Cómo reportar un caso de abuso La Diócesis de Austin está comprometida a la prevención del daño que se cause a cualquier niño o adulto vulnerable. Si usted está enterado del abuso sexual o físico y/o abandono de un niño o adulto vulnerable, la ley estatal requiere que se reporte esa información a la policía local o el Departamento de Servicios Familiares y de Protección del Estado de Texas al (800) 252-5400 o al sitio: www.dfps.state.tx.us y además, si la sospecha de abuso es por parte del clero, empleado o voluntario de cualquier parroquia, escuela u organización de la diócesis, se debe enviar un Reporte Con dencial de Abuso y debe ser presentado a la O cina de Ética e Integridad en el Ministerio de la diócesis al (512) 949-2400. El Reporte Con dencial de Abuso se encuentra en nuestra página de Internet diocesana: www.austindiocese.org ( Haga click en la liga COMO REPORTAR UN CASO DE ABUSO). Estos reportes pueden ser hechos de manera anónima. 28 ESPAÑOL CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Fortaleciendo la ‘iglesia doméstica’, la familia blecer prioridades y tomar decisiones de 2006. del matrimonio y la familia que hacen EL OBISPO JOE S. en consecuencia. Debemos enseñar a La iglesia debe hacer todo lo posible el plan original de Dios sin respeto... VÁSQUEZ es el quinto nuestros niños a vivir en formas que para apoyar y ayudar a nuestras familias. [así] la propia sociedad se ve afectada obispo de la Diócesis fomenten el bien y el apoyo de la vida de Austin. Es pastor Tenemos que ofrecer un ministerio y toda clase de riesgos estremecen su para casi 500,000 familiar. a nuestras familias. En el pasado, el fundación”, dijo el Santo Papa. católicos en 25 En segundo lugar, creo que es muy ministerio ha sido algo aislado, es decir, Por lo tanto, debemos tener todas condados en el importante que las familias encuentren hemos tenido los ministerios para las las familias en la oración, y tenemos que Centro de Texas. maneras de conectarse con los pobres. parejas jóvenes, para jóvenes adultos, trabajar para restaurar el sacramento del Muchas veces somos tan bendeci- para adolescentes y para los niños, pero matrimonio. Las familias deben buscar Editora: Señor Obispo, el Cate- dos que nos olvidamos de que hay parece que estamos descuidando uno a la Sagrada Familia –– Jesús, María cismo se re ere a la familia como la y José — como el modelo de fe para “iglesia doméstica”. Por favor díga- todas las familias. Ellos son la familia nos lo que signi ca este término. Debido a que la mayoría de las familias se perfecta, en cierto sentido, pero eso Obispo Vásquez: El término separan en muchas direcciones, el tiempo debe no quiere decir que eran inmunes a los “iglesia doméstica” o del latín “do- problemas y di cultades. mus ecclesiae” se ha utilizado durante dejarse de lado para permitir que la familia se María era una chica muy joven que mucho, mucho tiempo, para describir cuide mutuamente y fortalezca sus lazos de amor. estaba esperando un hijo, y por su fe a la familia. En los inicios del cristian- fue capaz de con ar en el Señor y creer ismo, no había edi cios o ciales des- que él iba a cuidar de sus necesidades. ignados para celebrar la Eucaristía y gente en nuestras propias colonias y de los elementos y que es el que une a Lo mismo sucedió con José. Llegó a los primeros cristianos se reunían en en nuestras ciudades que son me- todos — que tenemos que atender a las creer y entender el plan de Dios que las casas para adorar. Escuchamos en nos afortunados. Los pobres están a familias. Aliento a las parroquias a unir María fue a dar a luz al Hijo de Dios, el las cartas de S. Pablo, en las que habla nuestro alrededor, y deben ser tratados a las familias a través de actividades Salvador del mundo, y tuvo que con ar acerca de ir a diferentes hogares en con dignidad y con respeto. Estamos comunes de la oración, la educación y en ese plan. Y luego estaba la di cultad donde la comunidad se reúne y reza llamados a ser personas de compa- la socialización. del nacimiento de Jesús, que tuvo lugar –– la casa era el lugar para celebrar la sión y estamos llamados a llegar a los En el nivel de casa, aliento a las en un establo, entre los animales. Poco Eucaristía. A partir de esta tradición, necesitados. familias a que tomen tiempo jun- después, la familia tuvo que huir debido tenemos este entendimiento de que la Los padres pueden enseñar a sus tos. Debido a que la mayoría de las a que estaban siendo perseguidos, se iglesia tiene sus raíces en las familias. hijos una lección importante sobre familias se separan en muchas direc- convirtieron en inmigrantes y huyeron La familia sigue siendo el lugar donde el cuidado de los pobres y ayudar a ciones, el tiempo debe dejarse de lado lejos a esperar hasta que el peligro había aprendemos acerca de Dios, y sobre los necesitados. La parábola del Buen para permitir que la familia se cuide pasado. Sin lugar a dudas, la Sagrada el amor, la compasión y el compro- Samaritano es un buen ejemplo de mutuamente y fortalezca sus lazos Familia tuvo muchos retos, pero como miso. alguien que ve a una persona que de amor. Animo a las familias para familias estamos llamados a estar dedi- Editora: En la sociedad actual, necesita ayuda y responde de manera ir a Misa juntos, para compartir las cados y comprometidos el uno al otro los padres enfrentan muchos de- práctica para ayudarla. No es su ciente comidas juntos y pasar tiempo juntos. y, sobre todo a Dios. safíos para la crianza de sus hijos. con mostrar compasión por los po- Los padres deben tener conversacio- Los padres necesitan saber que El materialismo y el deseo de más bres, debemos responder a sus nece- nes con sus hijos sobre la escuela, tienen un lugar especial en el corazón y mejores “cosas” están fuera de sidades con actos solidarios y compa- los amigos, las actividades y otros de la iglesia. Los padres que están control. ¿Cómo podemos enseñar a sivos. De alguna manera los padres y aspectos de la vida cotidiana. Esto luchando no deben tener miedo de nuestros hijos a querer y con ar en los niños deben participar en ayudar a no es simplemente tomar interés en pedir la dirección de la iglesia. La el Señor y no en “cosas”? los pobres. Sí, debemos orar por ellos, nuestros hijos, pero se trata de un oración es lo mínimo que la parroquia Obispo Vásquez: Puesto que los pero hay que conectarnos con ellos a compromiso personal y la respon- debe hacer para las familias que están padres son los educadores primarios nivel personal, tal vez siendo volun- sabilidad de los padres a amar y criar luchando por enfermedad, las nanzas de sus hijos en la vida y en la fe, es tario en una despensa de alimentos o a sus hijos a ser personas maduras. o el divorcio. Aliento a las parroquias a importante que tengan una compren- ayudar en un refugio local. Debemos Todas estas cosas ayudan a hacer que desarrollar ministerios y recursos para sión adecuada de las necesidades y ir a donde están y llegar a ellos y dar las familias sean fuertes. las familias. No podemos perder de deseos. Juntos, una familia puede dar ejemplo a seguir a nuestros hijos. Editora: Muchas familias luchan vista una de estas familias que están prioridad a lo que realmente necesitan Editora: Como el Beato Juan por las nanzas, el divorcio, la luchando. Debemos encontrar formas y lo que quieren. Todos necesitamos Pablo II dijo, como la familia va, así muerte y la enfermedad. ¿Cuál es su de ayudar a las familias a enfrentar y alimentos, cuidados en el hogar, ropa y va el país y así va el mundo en que consejo para los padres que están tenemos que mantener fuertes a las salud. Estas son las necesidades, por lo vivimos. ¿Cómo podemos fortale- luchando? familias. tanto, tenemos que planear para ellos cer nuestras familias y por lo tanto Obispo Vásquez: En efecto, las Editora: ¿Cuál es su oración por y hacerlas nuestras prioridades. En nuestra nación y el mundo? familias luchan en muchos niveles. Hay las familias a medida que continua- segundo lugar, hay cosas que podemos Obispo Vásquez: Beato Juan muchas luchas internas que las fa- mos con el resto de la Cuaresma? querer, pero que no nos son necesarias Pablo II y Benedicto XVI destacaron milias enfrentan incluso los problemas Obispo Vásquez: Mi oración es para sobrevivir. la importancia de la familia y cómo nancieros, enfermedades, la pobreza que todos llegemos a valorar más a Por ejemplo, podemos querer la familia se relaciona con nuestro y la separación. Hay también muchas nuestras propias familias. Durante esta un determinado tipo de vehículo, mundo. El elemento fundamental de luchas externas, tales como el materia- Cuaresma, ruego, que como iglesia, nos pero otro tipo de vehículo que es una sociedad es la familia. Beato Juan lismo, la falta de aprecio por el don de pondremos en contacto a las familias menos costoso puede ser igual de Pablo II entiende que las familias que la vida humana y las leyes que socavan que necesitan nuestra atención, nuestra bueno. Nosotros decimos: “Bueno, son fuertes proporcionan fuerza para la el propósito de Dios para el matrimo- ayuda y nuestro apoyo. Rezo para que no necesariamente tenemos que tener sociedad en general. El Papa Benedicto nio. El Santo Papa Benedicto XVI ha todas las familias se conviertan en la ese tipo de vehículo ahora, porque XVI ha expuesto sobre esto. hablado en gran detalle acerca de la Sagrada Familia como un ejemplo de tenemos una familia, tenemos hijos, “La familia es un bien necesaria erosión del sacramento del matrimonio. cómo con ar en Dios a pesar de sus tenemos que cuidar de ellos, tenemos para la gente, un fundamento indis- “El amor de los esposos y el don muchas luchas. que plani car para el futuro y para pensable para la sociedad y un gran total de sí mismo... están en la raíz de Rezo para que Dios bendiga a su educación. Por lo tanto, tenemos tesoro y de por vida para las parejas. esta comunión de vida y amor que nuestras familias con la conciencia que vivir de una manera segura que Es un bien insustituíble para los hijos, constituye el estado matrimonial. Hoy de su presencia constante y el amor. va a ser modesta y todavía cuidar de que están destinados a ser el fruto del en día, es preciso anunciar con renova- Que reconocen la presencia de Dios nuestras necesidades”. amor, de la entrega total y generosa de do entusiasmo que el evangelio de la en cada uno y valoren que son un don Recomiendo que las familias sus padres. Proclamar la verdad integral familia es un camino de realización único para la sociedad. La familia es revisen su estilo de vida y determinen de la familia, fundada en el matrimonio humana y espiritual en la certeza de donde la presencia de Dios se hace cuáles son las necesidades y los deseos como Iglesia doméstica y santuario de que el Señor está siempre presente con real a través de actos de compasión, de la familia. Los niños aprenden la vida, es una gran responsabilidad de su gracia. Este anuncio a menudo es la caridad y el cuidado de nuestro mucho observando a sus padres esta- todos”, dijo el Santa Papa, el 8 de julio des gurado por falsas concepciones prójimo. March 2012 ESPAÑOL 29 El Espíritu Santo al centro de la conferencia Dijo que el Movimiento de El movimiento carismático POR ENEDELIA J. OBREGÓN Renovación Carismática es un es una oportunidad para en- CORRESPONSAL PRINCIPAL instrumento valioso y ayuda a tregar todo al Señor, dijo. formar y a cultivar los carismas “Es una oportunidad para Más de 600 personas fueron en nuestras diócesis, especial- redescubrir a Cristo en un renovados en el Espíritu San- mente en la comunidad hispana. ambiente familiar y entregar to en la primera Conferencia Al reunir a todas las comu- todos sus problemas a él y Diocesana de Renovación Ca- nidades de oración de habla dejar de lado todo el dolor y rismática en español el 21 de en- hispana en el movimiento ca- la tristeza que llevan y les per- ero. La multitud llenó el Centro rismático en la diócesis, “ sirve mitirá sanar sus heridas”, dijo de Actividades de la Parroquia para reconocer su trabajo, cele- Flores. de St. Margaret Mary en Cedar brar sus éxitos y renovarnos La experiencia de reno- Park para escuchar dos Misione- para el futuro... el futuro de vación recuerda a la gente que ros de Fátima cuyas conversa- nuestra comunidad hispana en “Cristo está vivo en la iglesia”, ciones se basaron en el tema de nuestra diócesis está vinculada dijo. “En la Iglesia está la verdad la conferencia: “He venido para con la frutos de la renovación de Cristo.” que tengan vida y la tengan en engendrado por el Espíritu San- Los grupos carismáticos per- abundancia” (Juan 10,10). to”, dijo. miten a las personas a crecer Los eles también pasaron María Flores, presidente espiritualmente en su formación algún tiempo ante el Santísimo de la comisión diocesana que y a servir como una forma de Sacramento y recibieron el sa- organizó la conferencia, dijo evangelización. Ella confía en cramento de la reconciliación que cerca de 25 grupos de la que la evangelización dará sus del Padre Elías Arámbula y el parroquia estuvieron representa- frutos. Flores ha pasado 19 años Padre Ángel Enrique. dos en la conferencia. Venían de en el movimiento carismático Entre los oradores, los asis- las parroquias en Waco, Marble y dice que el área de Austin se tentes cantaban y se balanceaba Falls, Killeen, Temple, Buda y encuentra en una etapa crítica al ritmo de la música de las Cris- Austin. de crecimiento. Ellos están bus- tianas Pan de Vida y Emmanuel, Flores dijo que hay una liber- cando un lugar más grande para que también tocó durante la tad al abrirse al Espíritu Santo el próximo año. llamada a la curación que llevó y no preocuparse por lo que En la conferencia, el Padre a muchos a las lágrimas por la los demás puedan pensar de la Arámbula recordó a los par- fuerza de su experiencia de fe. respuesta –– ya sea levantando ticipantes de la llamada a ser Edgar Ramírez, el direc- las manos en la oración, hablar discípulos de Cristo. A diferen- tor diocesano de la O cina del en lenguas o llorando. cia de otras religiones donde la Ministerio Hispano, dijo que “Al principio me daba gente busca a Dios, en la Iglesia SYLVIA CLEAVELAND, feligrés de la Parroquia St. Mar- el futuro de la comunidad his- vergüenza levantar mis manos”, Católica, es Dios quien nos garet Mary en Cedar Park, reza durante la Conferencia pana en la diócesis “está bien dijo Flores. “Pero si Dios me busca (Juan 1,48). de la Renovación Carismática en español, el 21 de enero. conectado con los frutos de está escuchando no hay nece- Señaló que Jesús estaba (Foto de Enedelia J. Obregón) renovación engendrados por el sidad de preocuparme. Aplau- siempre mirando a la gente, Espíritu Santo”. dimos a los artistas y gritamos dándose cuenta de los que fue- Padre Arámbula dijo que Dijo que a pesar de que iba a “Los movimientos eclesiales y gritamos. Entonces, ¿por qué ron pasados por alto, como la Dios nos amó antes de que lo misa todos los días, participar en constituyen un don singular del avergonzarse de hacerlo para viuda en el templo donando amáramos, nos perdonó, antes grupos de oración y leer los libros Señor y son un recurso valioso Dios? “ unas cuantas monedas de cobre de que le pidiéramos perdón y correctos, en realidad no cono- para la iglesia”, dijo Ramírez. Flores, es feligrés de la Pa- (Marcos 12,43). dio la vida antes de que naciéra- cia al Señor en un nivel personal. “Es necesario aceptarlos con rroquia St. Elizabeth en P uger- “Nosotros a menudo ten- mos. En la renovación carismática en con anza y valorar su contri- ville, y dijo que muchos de los emos dificultades en la vida “Antes de llegar aquí, Jesús 1984, fue renovado en el Es- bución al servicio de nuestra eles son inmigrantes y tratan de sin darse cuenta de que ten- estaba esperando”, dijo. “Antes píritu Santo con la “ experiencia comunidad y ayudarlos a realizar adaptarse a una lengua y a una emos que mirar hacia arriba”, de mirar a Cristo, el nos había de una vida nueva”. su misión de una manera orde- cultura diferente y hacer frente dijo. “Tenemos que recordar de visto.” “Es un verdadero nacimien- nada y fecunda”. a la discriminación. dónde viene nuestra salvación”. También leyó la última carta to –– no es simbólico”, dijo. de los obispos hispanos / latinos Nacer de nuevo significa de los Estado Unidos, dirigidas morir a la vida anterior de peca- a los inmigrantes. Los rman- do y egoísmo y convertirse en tes incluyen al Sr. Obispo José un siervo, dijo. Él encontró que Vásquez. el mundo cambió cuando él La carta señala: “(Nosotros) cambió. Él había prometido a deseamos que los que carecen Dios que si él lo salvaba de sus de la debida autorización para pensamientos suicidas iba a con- trabajar en nuestro país sepan sagrarse a Dios. Así se convirtió que no están solos u olvidados... en sacerdote. reconocemos que todo ser hu- “Cuando yo quería suici- mano, autorizado o no, es una darme estaba viviendo una imagen de Dios y por lo tanto vida centrada en el ego”, posee un valor in nito y digni- dijo. “Dios me ha enseñado dad. Abrimos nuestros brazos y a vivir para servirlo a él y a corazones a ti, y te recibimos los demás y no hay vida más como miembros de nuestra feliz”. familia católica”. Para leer la carta de los “Dime si esta (carta) no es obispos a los inmigrantes en la mirada de Cristo en sus pas- Inglés, visite http://usccbme- tores”, dijo. dia.blogspot.com/2011/12/ Padre Olivera compartió estas-son-las-mananitasof-his- su experiencia con el nacer de panic_12.html, para leerlo en nuevo después de contemplar el español, visite http://usccbme- CIENTOS se reunieron para la Conferencia de la Renovación Carismática, que se celebró suicidio en su juventud durante dia .blogspot.com/2011/12/ el 21 de enero en la Parroquia St. Margaret Mary in Cedar Park. La conferencia se celebró su sesión titulada “Ustedes de- estas-son-las-mananitasde-los- en español y participaron los padres Elías Arámbula y Ángel Enrique de México. (Foto de ben nacer de lo alto.” (Juan 3,7) obispos.html. Enedelia J. Obregón) 30 ESPAÑOL CATHOLIC SPIRIT

La Cuaresma nos llama a la conversión de nuestra fe, nuestra comunidad, y la POR EDGAR RAMIREZ razón de nuestro futuro. El Viacrucis DIRECTOR DEL MINISTERIO HISPANO es una expresión de fe que predica un valor contrario al que nuestra sociedad En estos cuarenta días de oración, hoy predica: el valor del sufrimiento. ayuno, meditación y obras de caridad, Sin embargo, estas devociones también una de las prácticas religiosas muy nos revelan el valor de la fe en nuestra importantes en nuestra comunidad comunidad Hispana. Jesús es llevado Católica es el Viacrucis. El Viacrucis es de palacio en palacio esperando lo una tradición ancestral de la edad media juzguen, cargando la cruz, muriendo que se ha convertido en una en ese madero con su madre a sus pies expresión clara de la fe Católica. En condenado al denunciar las injusticias nuestra comunidad hispana esta de- sociales, políticas y religiosas de su voción tiene un lugar bien importante tiempo. Junto con él y su madre, los al igual que la visita de las 7 casas, el pobres, los hambrientos y los oprimi- pésame a la Virgen y las 7 palabras. dos sufren también. Nuestra comuni- Recuerdo que de joven en mi pa- dad Hispana en Estados Unidos sabe rroquia San José de la Montaña en la de este sufrimiento. Cd. de México, el grupo de Jornadas al El sufrimiento de Jesús es el su- que pertenecía organizaba el Viacrucis frimiento del joven indocumentado de Semana Santa, y yo participé varias que por esta su situación tiene opcio- veces personi cando a algún personaje nes de educación y progreso limitadas, bíblico. Con mi familia todos los Jueves opciones que tampoco tiene en su país Santos íbamos a visitar 7 diferentes de origen. Jesús carga esa pesada cruz pa-rroquias recordando el calvario como las familias que no tienen acceso de Jesús, de Pilatos a Herodes, de los a servicio de salud y que aun que enfer- sacerdotes del templo a Pilatos, etc. mos deciden no ir al doctor al reco- El Viernes Santo participábamos en el nocer que económicamente no podrían Viacrucis parroquial caminando junto cubrir esos gastos sin seguro médico. a la cruz. Participábamos de la predica María llora junto a la cruz con la madre de las siete palabras y del pésame a la de familia que junto con su marido e Virgen. Este último lo recuerdo muy hijos viven lejos de casa en este país, y vívidamente. María frente a la cruz, con que al estar lejos de casa no tiene todo lágrimas en sus ojos por la muerte de el apoyo familiar que podrían haber su único hijo, pero con una entereza tenido en sus países de origen para salir y paz interna santa, sabiendo que ese adelante como pareja y como padres sufrimiento que le punza el corazón no de familia, pero que por su situación es en vano. El pésame a la Virgen me económica tuvieron que dejar para enseño el valor del sufrimiento. Ya aquí buscar de este lado de la frontera una en Estados Unidos también encontré vida mejor. Al identi car nuestra propia ese mismo fervor ante estas devocio- historia de sufrimiento y violencia con nes, que tristemente al migrar a este el sufrimiento y violencia visible en el su humanidad al desnudarlo y clavarlo de hoy, con las madres que piensan país las estamos olvidando, cierto es Viacrucis, la visita de las 7 casas, las en unos palos de madera, después de en el aborto como una opción. Jesús también que en algunas parroquias estas 7 palabras y el pésame a la Virgen, le forzarlo a cargar esa cruz por las calles carga junto con usted su cruz. tradiciones no son entendidas y por ponemos también un n a este. de Jerusalén; sin embargo, Jesús nunca Esta cuaresma lo invito a reco- ende no son promovidas o aceptadas. El sufrimiento de Cristo en la perdió su humanidad, sino al contrario nocer su sufrimiento en estas de- Estas devociones tienen un cruz es premiado con la resurrección; en su sufrimiento Jesús siente y vive vociones. ¿Qué heridas tiene de su sentido profundo al revivir la memoria no es un sufrimiento pasivo, sino un su humanidad. “Verdaderamente este niñez? ¿En que áreas de su vida hay de Jesús, su calvario y su victoria ante sufrimiento transformador. Los que era el Hijo de Dios,” dice el Centurión, dolor? ¿Qué experiencias de dolor y la muerte, esta memoria es la historia condenaron a Jesús buscaban quitarle al verlo en la cruz, sangrando y agoni- sufrimiento ha enfrentando aquí lejos zando. Así, mis hermanos y hermanas, de su tierra? ¿Cuál es su cruz, cuantas La cruzada del Rosario de Austin al reconocer el sufrimiento en nuestras carga, cuanto pesan? La cruzada del Rosario de Austin celebra su 37 aniversario de la promoción del propias vidas, nuestra humanidad es Pero le advierto del peligro de Rosario y la evangelización con un retiro de 8 a 4 el sábado, 10 de marzo de 2012 en reconocida, y este sufrimiento nos sólo quedarse ahí –– en su sufrimien- el Hall de la parroquia de St. Ignatius, Martyr, 126 Oltorf W. en Austin, TX 78704. transformará. to. La resurrección no es una historia El programa consta de un ligero desayuno, música, Rosario, confesiones, exposición Estas tradiciones también nos invi- distinta a la del Viacrucis o la muerte del Santísimo Sacramento, Santa Misa, servicio de curación y altavoces. La entrada tan a reconocer la humanidad sufriente de Cristo en la Cruz, no. La resur- es gratuita. La comida es $5 para adultos y gratis para los niños. El programa está del otro. El pueblo inmigrante hispano rección es la misma historia. Que en español. Para obtener más información, llame a Ignacio Moreno, Coordinador no es el único que sufre en la cruz y su sufrimiento no sea en vano, sino de (512) 443-4111 o al (512) 940-0698. que encuentra en estas expresiones un un sufrimiento transformador. Mi espacio para conectar su fe con su vida oración es que usted también pueda “La Total Consagración a Jesús a través de diaria. Todos los católicos estamos ver el sufrimiento de los demás, de María” invitados a hacer de estas devociones su vecino, de la persona de la otra Se les invita a todos a hacer o renovar la “Consagración Total a Jesús a través de un alimento transformador. El suf- raza, del que profesa otra religión o María” el Lunes 26 de Marzo en la Fiesta de la Anunciación. Para esta Consagración, rimiento es una experiencia humana valores diferentes a los míos, pues se ofrecerá una misa en 4 Iglesias. Por favor visita www.TexasToJesusThroughMary. universal. Jesús también sufre con toda si no reconocemos su sufrimiento y org para mas información. la comunidad inmigrante del mundo, realidad, sería como bajar a Jesús de con la clase media y pobre de todo la cruz y dejar la cruz vacía. Los jóvenes adultos hispanos el mundo que cada día tiene menos Edgar Ramirez es el Direc- Los jóvenes adultos hispanos están invitados a la Misa en español que será cele- recursos para vivir, con las mujeres y tor del Ministerio Hispano para brada el 30 de marzo a las 9 p.m. en la Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe niños en los lugares donde hay vio- la Diócesis de Austin. Se le puede en la ciudad de Austin. Los participantes rezarán el rosario a partir de las 8:30 p.m. lencia y guerra, con los enfermos, los llamar al (512) 949-2468 o por correo Para mas información comuníquese con Juan Torres al (512) 415-5908 o Lily Morales encarcelados, los jóvenes que no en- electrónico a edgar-ramirez@ al (512) 363-3609 o [email protected]. cuentran esperanza en las instituciones austindiocese.org. March 2012 SITINGS 31

FATHER EFRAIN VILLANUEVA, pastor of Our JUNIOR KNIGHTS AND Lady of Guada- DAUGHTERS of Peter Claver lupe Parish in participated in the march honoring Taylor, cel- Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 16 ebrated Mass in Austin. (Photo courtesy Johnnie honoring the Dorsey) 50th anniversa- ry of Hortencia and Manuel Federico Buentello. (Photo courtesy Jose R. Gonzalez)

ST. CATHERINE OF FATHER CHRIS SIENA Parish in Austin DOWNEY, pastor of hosted its annual Teams Holy Family Parish of Our Lady Retreat in Copperas Cove, Jan. 27-29 in Kingsland. celebrated the (Photo courtesy Alma feast of Epiphany Arriaga) with members of the Heart of Texas Marriage Encounter Circle. (Photo cour- tesy S. Jaramillo)

AT THE ANNUAL CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK breakfast at Sacred Heart School in La Grange, the Knights of Columbus Council 2574 presented a check for $10,000. The fth graders at Sacred Heart School in La Grange presented a skit entitled “A Small Act of Kind- ness: The Story of the Lion and the Mouse” to the Eastern Council of Catho- MEMBERS of the 2012 Pastoral Council of St. lic Women on Elizabeth Parish in P ugerville attended a retreat Jan. 24. (Photos to plan, pray and get to know one another as well courtesy Wendy as their pastor, Father Pedro Garcia-Ramirez. Becka and Amy (Photo courtesy Adam Shaivitz) Foster)

SALLY ROBB gave the an- nual Women’s Retreat and High Tea Jan. MARRIED COUPLES 21 at St. John from Sacred Heart Parish Neumann Parish in Rockne and St. Mary in Austin. (Photo Parish in String Prairie courtesy Jen were presented with cer- Crowley) ti cates from Bishop Joe Vásquez for their commit- ment to the sacrament of marriage. (Photo courtesy Gerri Martinez) PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS SISTERS visited with the stu- SISTER MARY THEO- dents of St. Theresa Catholic DORE THERESE (Svaha School in Austin during Catholic SriDhanyata) has made Schools Week. (Photos courtesy her rst profession of Suzanne Leggett) vows as a Carmelite at Our Lady of Grace Mon- astery in Christoval. Sister Theodore converted to Catholicism in 2006 at St. Mary Cathedral in Austin. Within weeks of entering the church, she felt the call to religious life. (Photo courtesy Our Lady of Grace Monastery)

Send photos by the 10th of the month to [email protected]. 32 SITINGS CATHOLIC SPIRIT

IN HONOR OF CATHO- LIC SCHOOLS WEEK, Holy Family Catholic School celebrated the Feast of the Presenta- tion of the Lord Feb. 2. Father Michael O’Connor celebrated Mass and led the Eucharistic Procession THIS YEAR St. Helen Catholic through each building of School is celebrating 10 years of the school. Dominican Sis- providing academic and spiritual ter Jude Andrew organized education to the greater George- the proces- town area. (Photo courtesy Debbie sion. (Photo Chaney) courtesy Sister Eliza- beth Ann O’Reilly and Kelly Hagemeier)

ST. PAUL PARISH in Austin has started a Schoenstatt Girl’s Ministry to develop future female parish leaders. (Photo courtesy Debbi Saunders)

ST. ALBERT THE GREAT Parish in Austin celebrated its 25th anniversary on Jan. 29. In the photograph are those priests and deacons who have served the parish, along with Bishop Joe Vásquez. (Photo by Dale Jarmush) EIGHTH GRAD- ERS at St. Mary’s School in Taylor learned about the anatomy and physi- ology of the heart in Science Class. (Photo courtesy Tabby Darilek)

MIDDLE SCHOOL religious THE ST. THOMAS AQUINAS education students at St. Child Development Center in Vincent de Paul Parish in College Station participated in Austin collected toiletry items the Pencil Project during Catholic for those served by Mobile Schools Week. In less than one Loaves and Fishes. The stu- month 6,010 pencils were col- dents made more than 530 lected to send to Zavala Elemen- bags that included shampoo, tary School in El Paso. (Photo lotion, deodorant and tooth courtesy Monica Love) paste. (Photo courtesy Josie Kleypas)

FATHER MATTHEW KINNEY led a guided silent meditation at the Catechist Spirituality Retreat at St. Anthony Parish in Kyle on MORE THAN Feb. 4. (Photo 1,700 gathered courtesy Anna at St. William G. Hernandez) Parish in Round Rock to hear Matthew Kelly speak on Jan. 29. (Photos courtesy Mar- tina Kreitzer)

Send photos by the 10th of the month to [email protected].