BRINGING THE GOOD NEWS TO THE DIOCESE OF FORT WORTH

How ministers are bringing the Church to Catholics with disabilities

MARCH — APRIL 2019 VOL. 35 | NO. 2 2 NorthTexasCatholic.org OUR SHEPHERD SPEAKS Bishop Michael F. Olson, STD, MA

BISHOP MICHAEL OLSON is the fourth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth.

@BpOlsonFW

THE DEATH OF INFANTS, THE DEATH OF CONSCIENCE

n January 22, 2019, New York Governor Governor Cuomo has failed to articulate whether he was Andrew Cuomo signed into law a statute that publicly celebrating as the chief executive of the State of New legalized abortion for the entire 40 weeks of a York while privately grieving in accord with his own personal woman’s pregnancy, including up to the moment moral and religious beliefs that he conveniently claims to be of a full-term delivery, based upon broad and Catholic. The governor’s actions and statements lack coher- Ovague criteria in determining a woman’s health. ence of reason and not simply inadequacy in Catholic faith. If something is inherently evil, it is evil all of the time and in The passage of the New York law has brought us further every place and circumstance. It is not simply a matter of pub- into the dark inevitabilities of what was prophesied by many lic point of view or privately held subjective values. people at the time of the Roe v. Wade decision: the legalization of abortion would lead ultimately to infanticide. The arrival It is clear that Governor Cuomo is not the only person — at the sad fulfillment of this prophecy is manifested by the Catholic or not — in our society to reduce the judgment of the shedding of the worn out euphemisms of the pro-abortion conscience to being a mediator of the choice to comply with movement including, “the fetus is a blob of tissue,” “it’s not the norms of societal conventions or with the desires of selfish a human being, it’s a potential human being,” “it’s a sad and preference. Yet, he has done so not in a private way, but in a tragic choice that confronts women, requiring that it at least be very public manner that not only affects the common good of made safe and rare.” The recent legislation makes it clear that society but also encourages others to act in a manner destruc- proponents of abortion on demand know full well that it is the tive to human life and happiness. This reduces the truth, ver- life of a baby at stake in balance with the choice of a mother ifiable by such empirical facts as the physiology of a pre-born to take that life with the cooperation of clinicians. baby, to a set of private values imposed in public life by the powerful dictate of the legislator, at the expense of the weaker In particular, the passage of the New York law was accom- but real members of our community. The governor offers to panied by anything but sadness by those responsible for its pas- public discourse a distinction without a real difference, and sage. It was celebrated with inebriated glee by legislators along excuses where reasons are called for. with Governor Cuomo as a triumph of capricious autonomy. The governor has been quick to articulate that “the decisions I As Catholics and as members of the human community, choose to make in my life, or in counseling my daughters, are we do harm to others if we settle for excuses. We each have based upon my personal moral and religious beliefs…but the the responsibility to form our consciences well, with reason oath of office is to the Constitutions of the United States and and faith, to uphold and protect the dignity of human life the State of New York — not to the Catholic Church. My reli- at all stages with consistency in both the public and private gion cannot demand favoritism as I execute my public duties.” spheres.

March / April 2019 3 COVER STORY IN THIS ISSUE How local faithful ensure Catholics with disabilities are included March - April 2019 in the life of the Church. 24

18 TRANSPARENT TEXAS Texas dioceses join Fort Worth by releasing names of accused clergy.

23 GOLDEN MILESTONE Celebrating 50 years with one focus — the Holy Eucharist.

31 FRONTIER PRIEST Meet Father Peter Levy: sharpshooter and missionary in Texas’ Wild West years.

34 CASE FOR LIFE When does a human become a person? Why does the answer matter so much?

40 CRADLE CATHOLIC With Camp Fort Worth youth, Gregory Brown has built 300 cribs, and counting. Debbie Luenser talks with Brigid Conders, 22, during a religion class at Our Mother of Perpetual Help educational program. (NTC/Rodger Mallison) 48 CHURCH BEAUTIFUL Our Q&A series examines how church architecture draws us closer to the Lord.

FOLLOW US ONLINE Visit NorthTexasCatholic.org for photo galleries, videos, the digital version of the magazine, and web-only articles.

HAVE A STORY IDEA? Share it with us! Help us make sure your parish community is seen in the NTC online, in print, or on our quickly growing social media accounts. Submit your ideas and briefs to: [email protected]. 12 SERVANT SHEPHERD 20 MAKING LOVE LAST

4 NorthTexasCatholic.org FROM THE EDITOR

The Crossroads

y political science professor would often give us this advice: M“Be open-minded, but not so open-minded that your brains fall out.” While delivered in good humor, his point was serious. Respect others and their ideas, don’t dismiss them summarily. At the same time, don’t forget common sense, maintain integrity, and uphold virtue. Know why before accepting or rejecting something and consider the potential outcome. Recent moves to expand abortion access in New York and elsewhere call us to remember this old adage. It seems that for the Publisher Bishop Michael Olson sake of “progress” we’ve replaced moderation with extremes — Communications Director pat Svacina and that is seldom good. We’ve let our brains fall out. In Virginia, Democratic delegate Kathy Tran was videotaped Editor Juan Guajardo remarking about her recently introduced late-term abortion associate Editor susan Moses bill. Asked if her bill would extend to the point “that a woman is about to give birth,” Tran replied her bill would allow an editorial Assistant rosa Rosales abortion — even if a woman is in labor. Web Designer chris Kastner In New York, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law the “Reproductive Health Act” which essentially allows abortion Circulation crissy Grossley on demand and removes protection for the infant accidentally born alive during an abortion. The legislation was greeted with contributors Michele Baker | Jenara Kocks-Burgess delighted cheers and applause. Jerry Circelli | Jayme Donahue In New Mexico and Vermont, meanwhile, bills similar to sandra Engelland | Joan Gillen New York’s are winding their ways through the state legislatures. Rodger Mallison | Susan McFarland In all those cases, obfuscation, calculation, rationalization, violeta Rocha | Marty Sabota and euphemism seemed to have been the order of the day for Mary Lou Seewoester | Matthew Smith those pushing for the legislation. Common sense was seemingly ben Torres subdued in favor of “enlightenment,” “progress,” “open-

mindedness,” and “we know best.” Pride blinded truth. Translator Yolanda Newcomb Alas, we’re not the first society to succumb to this negative side of “learnedness.” Philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, in regular Columnists Marlon De La Torre | Jeff Hedglen one of his great discourses, laments for ancient Rome: “Since ali Hoffman | David Mills the learned men began to appear among us, good people richard Mathews | Callie Nowlin have slipped away.” In Eden, we committed the same mistake, Joel De Loera | Fr. Manuel Holguin preferring knowledge and the lust for being like God over being with God. To be sure, knowledge in itself isn’t bad! It’s not necessarily Editorial Office: 800 West Loop 820 S., Fort Worth, Texas 76108, 817-945-9424. good either. It’s amoral. It’s neutral. We decide whether it’s NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC Magazine (USPS 751-370) (ISSN 0899-7020) is good or bad through our motives and actions. And this is the published bi-monthly by the Most Rev. Michael F. Olson, Bishop of the Diocese of crossroads for us. In these times, it does us well to remember that Fort Worth. For those who are not registered parishioners in the Diocese of Fort knowledge, guided by the divine (the Holy Spirit), is what really Worth, subscription rates are $18 for one year, $35 for two years, $50 for three moves us forward in this world and the next. It does us well to years. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Worth, TX. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Texas Catholic, 800 W. Loop 820 S., Fort Worth, Texas 76108. pray for wisdom — and the integrity, love of God, and courage to use it well. The appearance of advertising in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services, or products. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising in all media. For the Kingdom, For address changes, please contact Crissy Grossley, 817-945-9465. Juan Guajardo, Editor

March / April 2019 5 Around the Diocese Austin Jordan places his hands on a display case containing wood of the true cross of Our Lord. (NTC/Ben Torres)

Hundreds of faithful experience sacred relics

FORT WORTH — To explained, are not magic and many, the practice no doubt contain no power in and of Campus ministry a spiritual seems odd at best and themselves. They can assist, sanctuary for TCU students profane idolatry at worst — however, in bringing one venerating body parts and closer to God. personal belongings of saints. “Every saint lives his or FORT WORTH — With parish,” Hopkins said. However, the function of her life as a giant billboard 400 students involved in Hopkins views his new venerating sacred relics exists pointing to God,” Fr. Martins Texas Christian Univer- job as “the work of the solely for the sake of wor- said. “But God, in His sity’s Catholic Campus Holy Spirit in my life.” shiping God, Father Carlos mystery, also points to His Ministry, the group is thriv- He recently stepped Martins said. The venera- saints as His masterpieces of ing, said Tom Centarri, the away from seminary to be tion of them derives from creation.” ministry’s director with his family and Scripture, he added. St. Peter parishioner for the past four was looking for Fr. Martins is a member Katherine Rafferty said she years. As of Feb. 1, another opportuni- of Companions of the Cross prays to Jesus and the saints Centarri is working ty to serve. and head of Treasures of the show up too. as a Knights of Hopkins bleeds Church, an evangelization “It reminds us of what Columbus insur- purple. He earned ministry dedicated to giving we already know,” Rafferty ance agent, and Ed Hopkins an undergraduate people an experience of God said of the exposition. “That he has handed the and master’s degree through relics of the saints. the saints come to you. If reins to TCU grad Ed from TCU, and both During an exposition Jan. 14 there’s something going on Hopkins. parents are TCU alum. at St. Peter the Apostle Parish in your life, they literally Hopkins said he aims Hopkins said that in Fort Worth, he discussed intervene for you.” to continue the ministry’s directing the campus minis- sacred relics and their role in Fr. Martins said he expe- focus on service, along try “is a perfect fit for me.” spiritual life. riences joy through seeing the with faith education and “God has a plan for us Hundreds filled the crowds and their reactions evangelism. and wants to bless us more church to hear Fr. Martins’ to the relics. “It’s very much “We definitely want than we know how to be talk and afterward filed a ministry of healing and to provide support for blessed,” he said. through the church and evangelization whereby God students, many of whom gymnasium of St. Peter the reveals Himself to His people are away from their home – Sandra Engelland Apostle Catholic School to through the sacred remains experience 166 sacred relics of His saints.” firsthand. Relics, Fr. Martins – Matthew Smith For full versions of these stories plus more photos, visit NorthTexasCatholic.org/local-news

6 NorthTexasCatholic.org

– Matthew Smith Seminarian Samuel Maul speaks about his vocation to the priesthood to Cassata Catholic High School students. Around the Diocese (NTC/Jayme Donahue)

Seminarians visit Cassata and leave behind big questions

FORT WORTH — in their pastoral year and are Seminarian Sam Maul said serving at various churches in Build His Kingdom Together he could pinpoint the exact the diocese. on March 30 moment he began thinking Cassata Principal Maggie seriously about becoming Harrison said many students a priest. He was the same in the school who are not KELLER — When Jesus “The Eucharist Makes Us age as many of his listeners Catholic, or have not been was asked which was the the Church.” at Cassata Catholic High involved in the faith, learned greatest commandment The Diocesan Day of School in Fort Worth. seminarians are real people in Matthew 22, he replied, Reflection will be held at Maul was one of five and are very approachable. “Love the Lord your God St. Elizabeth Ann Seton seminarians who, along “I believe it’s import- with all your heart and with Parish in Keller on March with Father Maurice Moon, ant to have a positive male all your soul and with all 30. Mass begins at 9 a.m. visited Cassata as part of presence for our students,” your mind.” The second? The day, themed “Building Vocation Day. Seminarians Harrison said. “Many of our “Love your neighbor as His Kingdom Together,” visited every high school in male and female students yourself.” concludes at 12:30 p.m. the Diocese of Fort Worth come from at-risk environ- Ken Ogorek will The $10 registration in January and are slated to ments, and many have lost make a special visit to the fee includes breakfast. The go to elementary and middle their male role models.” Diocese of Fort Worth and calendar at fwdioc.org schools in May. The visitors told students give practical, inspirational has a link to register. At Cassata, several mem- the point of Vocation Day ideas that build on those According to Diana bers of the group spoke to was to urge students to reflect commandments at the Liska, diocesan director of high school boys at a break- on their futures. Diocesan Day of Renewal. stewardship, attendance fast and then talked briefly to Maul said, “Begin to The nationally acclaimed at the annual event has students in their classrooms. think about how you can Catholic speaker and grown over its four years. Students asked questions serve. The end goal in life director of catechesis Past participants have such as how long it takes to isn’t how can I get ahead. It’s for the Archdiocese of found a source of fresh become a priest (nine years how can I help others.” Indianapolis will give two ideas, rejuvenation, and a for most of them) and what Fr. Moon said, presentations, “How do I chance to build commu- their course load is like (they “Everyone has a calling in grow closer to God?” and nity. Liska recommends study a lot of philosophy life. The happiest you’re “How do I collaborate the event for “anyone who at first, and then theology, going to be is following God’s with others?” wants to grow in their and they have a year of will.” Bishop Michael Olson relationship with Christ. pastoral service). The visiting will celebrate Mass and Quiet your life and take a seminarians are all engaged – Sandra Engelland give the keynote address, few hours for God.”

March / April 2019 7 Around the Diocese

Bishop Stephen Berg, of Pueblo, Colo., and Bishop Michael Olson process in during the Martin Luther Pueblo Bishop Berg returns to King, Jr. Memorial Mass at St. Michael Parish. spur conversion at MLK Mass (NTC/Juan Guajardo)

BEDFORD — Loving peo- priest for the Diocese of Fort Knights deliver first glimpses ple of all races and prayers Worth, said the evening is of baby with 1,000 ultrasounds for a genuine conversion both a celebration and time of the heart, one soul at a to remember what God has time, was prominent in the called us to do. DENTON — Giving Of the 1,000 dona- message shared Jan. 12 at St. “We come together as babies a chance at life tions, five were placed in Michael Parish in Bedford God’s people, conscious and is why the Knights of the Diocese of Fort Worth. during the 33rd Annual Dr. aware that there are many Columbus began donat- Loreto House in Denton, Martin Luther King, Jr. times when we fail to love ing ultrasound machines a pro-life apostolate of the Memorial Mass. God and to love our neigh- a decade ago to pro-life diocese, received the state’s Amid a sanctuary bor,” Bishop Olson said. pregnancy centers across first donation on July 29, adorned with vivid de- Bishop Berg said what the globe. 2009. cor, the choir swayed and we need now is a genuine A major milestone was Randy Bollig, executive clapped to the music as the conversion of heart, a met as the 1,000th machine director of Loreto House, saxophone, trumpet, and conversion that will bring was donated to Mother of said the machine is a very drums accompanied the pi- change and reform to our Mercy Free Medical Clinic powerful tool for the center, ano during the celebration, institutions and society. in Manassas, Va. which sees about 20 wom- which was a beautiful blend “Especially if we don’t The Ultrasound en a day. He said many of African heritage and see the need for honest dia- Initiative, developed by women think their unborn Catholic tradition. logue and collaboration with the Knights of Columbus child is just a blob of tissue One highlight of the others of differing views, in 2009, is one of the in the early stages. evening was a special ethnicities, nationalities, and greatest humanitarian “When we get a performance by the Saint race as a most important efforts the organization heartbeat at six weeks, it’s Bakhita Choir of St. Joseph part of our own conversion. has ever undertaken with a powerful affirmation that Parish in Arlington, which And most especially if we do more than $49 million in it’s a human being,” Bollig sang the offertory song in not see that justice is in fact machines donated to pro- said. “Sonograms have Kikongo, a language from another word for holiness,” life pregnancy centers in all helped save babies. It helps the Democratic Republic of Bishop Berg said. “To be 50 states and Puerto Rico, the mother to bond.” the Congo in central Africa. just is simply to be holy. as well as Brazil, Canada, Bishop Michael Olson, Not always the easy way, Jamaica, Peru, and Africa. – Susan McFarland as he introduced guest but truly, that’s what we are homilist Stephen Berg, made for.” Bishop of the Diocese of Pueblo, Colo. and former – Susan McFarland For full versions of these stories plus more photos, visit NorthTexasCatholic.org/local-news

8 NorthTexasCatholic.org Official Assignments

BY BISHOP MICHAEL F. OLSON

REV. MARIANNA FRANCIS CHINTHAMALLA, HGN Parochial Vicar at St. Francis of Assisi in Grapevine, has been appointed Parochial Vicar of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Keller, effective Feb. 1, 2019.

REV. JONATHAN DEMMA Parochial Vicar at St. John the Apostle in North Richland Hills, has been appointed Parochial Administrator of Sacred Heart Parish in Wichita Falls, effective Feb. 1, 2019.

REV. JAMES FLYNN Pastor at St. Francis of Assisi in Grapevine, has been appointed Pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Keller, effective Feb. 1, 2019.

REV. FEDERICO GAYOSO, TOR (NTC/Jayme Donahue) Parochial Vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish in Denton, has been appointed Parochial Vicar of All Saints Parish in Lent — new ideas for an Fort Worth, effective Dec. 27, 2018. ancient tradition REV. JOSEPH JANISZESKI, TOR Parochial Vicar of St. Andrew Parish in Fort Worth, has been recalled by his religious order community, effective Oct. 26, 2018. This year, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 6, and continues until Easter Sunday on April 21. The season of REV. SOJAN GEORGE PUTHIYAPARAMPIL self-examination and penitence has origins dating back to the Rector of St. Patrick Cathedral, has been appointed Pastor of second century and is traditionally observed in three ways: St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Grapevine, effective Feb. 14, 2019.

SEEK THE LORD IN PRAYER AND SCRIPTURE REV. JOHN ROBERT SKELDON • Attend your parish’s Stations of the Cross. Parochial Vicar of St. Patrick Cathedral in Fort Worth, has • Pray a family Rosary on Fridays. been appointed Rector of the parish, effective Feb. 13, 2019. • Read the seven penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, and 143) and the Songs of the Suffering Servant (Isaiah 42, 49, 50, and 52). REV. ANH TRAN In residence at St. Patrick Catheral in Fort Worth, has been

appointed Parochial Vicar of St. John the Apostle in North SERVE BY GIVING ALMS Richland Hills, effective Feb. 1, 2019. • Donate your treasure to the less fortunate, and remember that almsgiving can include time and talents, too. • Volunteer your time at a parish ministry. • Visit a relative or neighbor who might be lonely. • Give extra clothes, books, toys, or household items to charity. In Memoriam

PRACTICE SELF CONTROL THROUGH FASTING REV. THOMAS JAMES CRAIG • Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of January 5, 2019 fasting and abstinence for Catholics from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full Father Thomas Craig, 66, was Director of the Propagation of the Faith and Director meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not of the Diocesan Mission Council. Former equal to a full meal. pastor of St. Vincent de Paul and other • Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence parishes, he is remembered as a gentle, from meat from age 14. compassionate pastor and dedicated • Consider other forms of self-discipline. Fast from social mission worker. media, gossip, complaining, criticism, or television. Full obituaries are available at NorthTexasCatholic.org.

March / April 2019 9 Members of local religious communities worship during Solemn Vespers on World Day for Consecrated Life at St. Patrick Cathedral Feb. 1. (NTC/Rodger Mallison)

set apart to SHINE THE LIGHT

By Susan Moses order priests who have taken the vows of 18, but she considered it for years before- consecrated life — chastity, poverty, and hand, dressing up as a nun as a child. Still, n a world that measures success in obedience — are serving the Diocese of Sr. Kay Jo remembered, “I wanted to get material possessions, career status, and Fort Worth. married and have 12 children, but God said, social influence, taking vows of chastity, “Being consecrated means that you give ‘No, come follow me and I’ll give you thou- Ipoverty, and obedience makes no sense. yourself totally to Jesus by your vows,” said sands.’” In her 58 years of educating young But when this radical “yes” to God is Sister Kay Jo Evelo, SHSp, who graduated Catholics, God has kept His promise. examined with long-range vision, every- from high school on Friday and entered Taking religious vows can be challeng- thing comes into focus, explained Father the Sisters of the Holy Spirit and Mary ing for others to understand. Jim Gigliotti, TOR, pastor of St. Andrew Immaculate convent on Sunday, almost 64 Fr. Gigliotti said, “The world is not Parish in Fort Worth. years ago. going to entirely understand the inner For those living consecrated lives, Why? “My love for children, my love dynamics of what you’re being called accomplishment means “for us to get to for God’s people, and my desire to express to. Language fails when you’re trying to heaven, which we all want to do. We want to the world God’s goodness. I hope I act as describe a love relationship that is mystical to bring the world with us to heaven. And a witness for Christ in the world because I and yet personal.” we do that in our soul life, in the sacrifices really feel the world needs God’s presence,” The pastor, in his 51st year of vows, said, that we make,” Fr. Gigliotti summarized. said the educator, who has taught at St. Rita “Everything has to do with the Holy Spirit That’s consecrated life in a nutshell. Catholic School in Fort Worth for 23 years. and what the Holy Spirit does with our gifts Currently 59 sisters and 60 religious Sr. Kay Jo began her consecrated life at and talents. We know it isn’t until we get to

10 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 10 10 NorthTexasCatholic.org Sister Theresa Queally, SHSp, and Sister Kay Jo Evelo, SHSp, talk with a friend before Solemn Vespers on World Day for Consecrated Life at St. Patrick Cathedral Feb. 1. (NTC/Rodger Mallison) heaven that we know what the Holy Spirit has accomplished through feeble us. That’s what we do. We make ourselves available to His mystery.” Sister Diana Rodriguez, HCG, explained, “Jesus, He’s the One who called me, chose me. I hope to persevere to the end in this choice of calling and be with Him at all times through my community and my service to the Church.” Her vow to follow Jesus exclusively allows her to live in com- munity, participate in daily Mass, and have daily prayer and silent meditation. “In work and with the people, there’s conversations, communica- apostolic work is contemplative prayer for consecrated life faith- tions. This moment of silence is special because it’s just between me fulness, because, as the Sacred Heart said to St. Margaret Mary and God, and God and me. It’s time to listen to Him and for Him Alacoque, ‘Woe to the world when there are no more consecrat- to listen to me, too,” said the sister, who is currently the delegate for ed souls. They make the world go round.’” women religious and director of the Diocesan Formation Center. She also has served in parishes as the director of religious education. INVITE: It may seem odd, but some people may not realize Sr. Diana has spent 36 years in consecrated life. “Being conse- sisters, brothers, and priests are ordinary people who come from crated to God makes us special in a way because we’re following ordinary families, said Sr. Diana, who grew up in North Fort Him. We want to be with Him. But we’re striving to become holy like Worth. That’s why adults should invite youth and young adults to everybody else through our Baptism,” she said. consider a religious vocation. Tell children you think they would make a wonderful priest or sister, encouraged Sr. Kay Jo. Teens and young adults should SUPPORTING CONSECRATED LIFE be open to the Holy Spirit and ask themselves, “Maybe God is PRAY: Sr. Diana said the primary means for the faithful to support calling me to follow Him in a different way,” she continued. religious sisters, brothers, and priests is “most of all through prayer, that we will persevere in this vocation, and follow through in our DONATE: Many Catholics assume the Church provides calling that we received from Christ through the Church.” financial support to orders of religious sisters, but “the Church Fr. Gigliotti said he and others in religious vocations have a hid- doesn’t support us, we support ourselves” by working, Sr. Kay den strength to help in their calling: the prayers of contemplative Jo explained. religious orders. Many orders with a high proportion of elderly nuns face He said, “It’s always a surprise when I remind people there are “dire necessity,” cautioned the sister. She encourages parishioners contemplative religious orders that are praying for priests and reli- to donate to the annual special collection for retired religious gious vocations. They are praying for the souls of deceased priests (scheduled for December 14-15, 2019). and religious, for the perseverance of present ones, and for future Some parishes and schools support local orders with donations [ones]. of nonperishable food and household supplies. Other individuals “There are communities of consecrated religious men and have stepped up to offer lawn care or other services to reduce the women all over the world, such as the Carmelites, whose specific burden and expense of maintaining a residence.

11 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 11 DIOCESE March / April 2019 11 THE SERVANT SHEPHERD Bishop Michael Olson’s episcopate at the five-year mark

By Juan Guajardo visit every parish and school (often and guide discerning men, so that by more than once), meet with leaders, the time a discerner is ready to enter any of us know laypeople, committees, and experts, seminary, he has built a network of the story well by giving priority to being close to his support and friendships. It’s helpful now. But Bishop flock — a shepherd “living with the in a diocese covering 23,950 square Michael Olson smell of [his] sheep,” as Pope Francis miles. can recall it down exhorted. Five priests are currently to the tiniest details. But these have been years of appointed to that task, including MFive years ago, then Monsignor transition and renewal, with the Fr. Wallis, who helps oversee and Olson stepped into his office at the bishop spearheading and overseeing guide the formation of seminarians University of Dallas. He noticed a the impetus, growth, and changes while serving as Dean of Students voicemail had been left and picked needed to serve a rapidly growing at St. Joseph Seminary College in up the phone. It was a message from and ever-diverse Catholic population Covington, La. the apostolic nuncio to the U.S. — cast over 28 counties, 90 parishes, The approach placed greater someone who’d never called him and one mission. emphasis on formation, prayer, and before. At a distance of five years, we catechetical teaching. Several minutes and prayers felt it proper to highlight the many If the recent “Come and See” later, Msgr. Olson’s life was changed developments that have taken place visits to St. Joseph Seminary are any forever. The nuncio passed along the over this time. indication, it’s been quite the success. news that Pope Francis had appoint- “We consistently have had the ed the seminary rector as Bishop of most — by far — men participating,” the Diocese of Fort Worth. VOCATIONS & DISCERNMENT Fr. Wallis said. “Sometimes we’ve had In the weeks before his installa- An approach of intentionality upwards of 50 discerners come for tion (Jan. 29, 2014), Bishop Olson did and concerted effort on fostering a that, so that’s been a huge success.” what he continues to do today when culture of vocations has been the The past two years, the team has faced with big decisions, challenges, hallmark of the diocesan vocations kept busy, hosting various discern- or opportunities: Pray, seeking the program. ment opportunities like St. Andrew’s will of Our Blessed Lord. To make that a reality, in 2017 Breakfasts and Dinners, where “I took a lot of time going to Bishop Olson appointed a team young men interested in learning churches — mostly churches in this of vocations liaisons to the task of about the priesthood attend Mass diocese — and praying. Just that the vocations — rather than one single and afterward share a meal and Lord give me wisdom and patience vocation director, as in many other discuss discernment; seminarian visits and understanding and fortitude to dioceses. Father Jonathan Wallis, to Catholic schools; and twice-a- do what He asked of me for the good director of seminarian formation for year “Come and See” visits to the of the people of God here.” the diocese, called it revolutionary. Louisiana seminary. This spring, Now, five years have flown by — The approach allowed the priest years that have seen Bishop Olson liaisons more time to accompany Continued on Page 14 NTC/Juan Guajardo

12 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 12 12 NorthTexasCatholic.org “It is hard to believe that five years have passed since the day of my ordination as your bishop, and each day of that period I have spent in gratitude for the service that Christ has entrusted me to offer you with leadership in teaching, overseeing, and santifying.”

13 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 13 DIOCESE March / April 2019 13 From Page 12 A WALK Father Maurice Moon, chaplain of The past five years have seen DOWN Nolan Catholic High School, will kick 12 diocesan priests ordained MEMORY off a weekend retreat at St. Joseph and 38 men begin the five- LANE Seminary, giving junior-level boys the year formation process for chance to see life in the seminary. Fr. Wallis explained he and the permanent diaconate. Bishop Olson emphasize to discerners early that “a vocation is really a call to service. It’s a call to prioritize our lives 2014 by Christ, others, and then ourselves.” Permanent Diaconate Program reopened The last five years have also seen Farther south in Denton, St. • Diocese of Fort Worth Advancement 12 men ordained as diocesan priests Mark Parish is nearly done paying off Foundation formed as fundraising and and the reopening of the permanent the construction of its parish hall and management arm of diocese • Young diaconate formation program. Two will begin construction of its formal Catholic Professionals launches Fort Worth classes of future deacons (2020 and church. Chapter • Catholic Charities Fort Worth 2022) are currently in formation. St. Andrew Parish in Fort Worth (CCFW) opens offices in Colleyville and Wichita Falls • CCFW welcomes more Once ordained, they will bolster the and Holy Cross in The Colony are International Foster Care youth. ranks of 85 current permanent dea- both expanding. St. Philip the Apostle cons in the diocese. Parish has acquired property in 2015 Flower Mound to build a church that NTC/Jayme Donahue will eventually seat 1,800. St. Thomas St. Martin de Porres Parish and St. Benedict GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT the Apostle in north Fort Worth fin- Parish (Latin Mass) established • CCFW From 2014 to this year, the dio- ished building its new church — with launches innovative Padua Pilot • Diocese cese has seen a boom in self-identified capacity for more than 1,000 — in joins fight against payday lending abuses Catholics from 720,000 to more than December 2016. One of two new with Catholic Charities spearheading efforts 1.1 million. Director of Real Estate parishes established during Bishop • CCFW develops “Create-Eradicate- Transform” strategy map to end poverty. and Construction Steve Becht points Olson’s episcopate, St. Martin de to an urbanization trend and a shift- Porres in Prosper has a new 18,000 ing job market as key factors. Growth square-foot worship space for its has been especially heavy in the north parishioners to call home. The other 2016 and northeast regions of the diocese. new parish, St. Benedict in north Fort Diocesan Formation Center renovated • “It’s a real opportunity to evan- Worth, celebrates the extraordinary TCU Catholic Community receives new gelize them and get them going to [Latin] form of the Mass. home • Diocese reinstates Nihil Obstat for church on a regular basis,” Becht said. It’s fast growth, but growth with marriage • Diocesan stewardship program The diocese, under Bishop strategy and purpose. To that end launched • Marriage tribunal begins Olson’s guidance, has taken the bull the diocese has consulted growth streamlining processes, doubling capacity by the horns. and planning experts like the Buxton of cases. “Basically, [Bishop Olson] said Group and Meitler Consultants to ‘We’re going for it.’ We’re going to guide the process of when and where 2017 build this thing and we’re going to a parish should be established. St. Junipero Serra Institute established • serve the population and serve our “We want to make sure we don’t Congregation of Lovers of the Holy Cross mission which is the salvation of exclude any group by the placement invited to serve Vietnamese communities in souls,” Becht explained. “He recog- of a parish, most especially the diocese • Vocations team expanded to five• nizes that to accommodate the growth economically disadvantaged,” Bishop Diocese continues V Encuentro preparations and population, we’re going to have a Olson said in a 2014 NTC interview. • CCFW serves Harvey survivors. lot of construction by necessity.” Already footprints of that growth can be seen across the landscape. In STEWARDSHIP 2018 Denton, St. John Paul II Parish has The past few years have seen New Safe Environment Program trains broken ground on a 300-seat church an uptick of five percent in weekly 34,000 volunteers • Catholic Schools move that will serve a growing Catholic financial contributions, said Renée toward classical education • Cristo Rey student population at University of Underwood, associate director High School opens its doors • National North Texas and Texas Woman’s of the Advancement Foundation. V Encuentro hosted in Grapevine with University. Additionally, “there’s hardly a week heavy lay participation by diocese faithful.

14 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 14 14 NorthTexasCatholic.org A SHEPHERD

NTC/Jayme Donahue ACCOMPANYING HIS FLOCK

goes by that I’m not working with one or accompany them on that walk in prayer and more new individuals who are making pro- in knowledge,” Underwood explained. Within the first visions for a parish, school, or the diocese, in To keep up with digital trends, the their estate plans.” Annual Diocesan Appeal Foundation has also developed Text to Give, 15 months of his efforts continue strong, she added. increased its presence on social media and Underwood has noticed a growth in through email, while, of course, providing episcopate, Bishop generosity diocese-wide. How much of that a lot of face-to-face interaction. It’s an can be attributed to the many innovations embrace of best practices. made by the Advancement Foundation “He’s been a real champion of new Olson visited all the is impossible to know. But she likens their ideas,” Underwood said. “I think he realizes efforts to “little stones” being thrown in while we have a common faith, technology diocese’s parishes. a body of water “and creating a ripple allows us to better serve our diverse people. effect…in the end only God can measure He’s been a real champion of that.” the immense ripple effects we’re having.” One of those “little stones” has been the the area. On Fort Worth’s North Side, All creation of a stewardship program (directed CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Saints Catholic School expanded its dual by Diana Liska), which helps parishes create The past five years have seen numer- language program and now more than half a culture of discipleship, gratefulness, and ous triumphs across the diocese’s Catholic of the school’s 141 students are learning generosity of time and treasure. schools. English and Spanish. In near south Fort Another has been the revamping of A priority on making schools accessible Worth, Cassata Catholic High School is the Bishop’s Guild, which became the St. to everybody, whether that’s financially, serving disadvantaged youth at a higher rate John Paul II Shepherd’s Guild in August socially, or academically, has guided many and now has a waiting list. Toward the east 2018. Guild members help cover the costs of the changes, like the diocese’s hiring of side of Fort Worth, Nolan is in the midst seminarians incur during their seven-to-nine two full-time learning specialists that reach of a $40-million renovation that includes years of formation at an average annual out and provide support to students across improved security, a new front entrance, cost of $52,000. But the change in title also the diocese. two outdoor learning areas, upgrades to the brought with it a greater priority on educa- Cristo Rey Fort Worth High School at auditorium, and a new chapel with seating tion and prayer. Our Mother of Mercy opened its doors to for 2,000. Enrollment has increased at many “Because [Bishop] wants people to its inaugural freshman class August 2018, schools. understand the journey of discernment providing a quality, college-preparatory that these men are going through, and we education to many disadvantaged youth in Continued on Page 16

15 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 15 DIOCESE March / April 2019 15 From Page 15

Since assuming the diocesan school superintendent post in April 2015, Jennifer Pelletier has made Catholic identity a greater priority in the academic environment. “Conversations happening in the classrooms are happening with that understanding of the Catholic faith,” she said. “They’re not talking about history and then going to English and then going to math and then going to theology class. Religion is infused in all the things they’re doing and why they’re doing them. The teachers are actively and intentionally making that happen.” As part of Bishop Olson’s impetus that Catholic educators teach students to cherish the “transcendental goods of truth, beauty, and goodness,” Pelletier has over- seen a diocese-wide push toward classical NTC/Juan Guajardo Catholic education — an approach that BISHOP OLSON heralds back to basics: reading, thinking, ON CATHOLIC and speaking — skills referred to as the classical trivium of grammar, logic, and ushers, principals, school teachers, coaches, EDUCATION rhetoric. parents, and volunteers, as well as the bishop, Part and parcel of that is a two-week are trained to protect our children by learn- New Teacher Formation Institute famil- ing the signs to identify child sexual abuse. “Catholic education iarizing teachers with the philosophy of On annual safe environment audits, classical education, its five essential marks, the United States Conference of Catholic is very dear to me. and teaching methods. And so is a new cat- Bishops noted the diocese’s excellent echesis program developed specifically for compliance. Catholic education faculty by the St. Junipero Serra Institute. However, the bishop was concerned Currently in its first year, the weekend class- that familiarity breeds complacency, so he has to be the es and certification are a requirement for charged the Safe Environment Office to “everybody from the janitor to the [school] enhance the program. president,” Pelletier said. In July 2018, the Safe Environment formation and The culture of vocations extends to Office implemented Protecting God’s schools as well, Pelletier said. Students in Children®, a more robust training program integration of the diocesan Catholic schools have enjoyed vis- with a three-hour, face-to-face training that its and talks by seminarians — and Bishop is renewed every two years. Criminal back- whole person, body Olson. ground checks became even more intensive, “The whole point is to make vocations a checking national databases of individuals and soul. It also has to part of the conversation,” Pelletier said. who have been removed from youth-serving organizations and those who have had pro- be accessible.” fessional licenses suspended or revoked. SAFE ENVIRONMENT The Diocese of Fort Worth has trained By the time Bishop Olson’s tenure almost 175 facilitators who hold training ses- after a period of transition. began, a safe environment program had sions at every parish and school in the dio- The first two years of Bishop Olson’s been established in the diocese for more cese. To date, more than 34,000 adults are episcopate saw youth ministry revamped than 10 years. current in their safe environment training. “with more of a focus on teaching, evange- The safe environment program requires lization, and catechesis,” said Marlon De La clergy, staff, choir members, catechists, Torre, department director of Catechesis teachers, seminarians, extraordinary minis- CATECHESIS AND LAY MINISTRY and Evangelization. ters of Holy Communion, lectors, cantors, Lay ministry and catechesis is thriving In 2017, the St. Junipero Institute was

16 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 16 16 NorthTexasCatholic.org created to respond to the many faithful in Conference for youth. than 50 local delegates and 800 lay volun- the diocese wanting to learn more about De La Torre said Bishop Olson also teers took part in the four-day event that their faith. With its various tracks and “stressed the need of bringing communion drew participants from 159 dioceses. faith topics, the institute brings to adults a and covenant to everybody” — there- In the wake of Encuentro, De La Torre comprehensive understanding of Catholic fore catechesis is available in English and said the diocese is drafting a revamped pas- doctrine and history. Spanish. toral plan for Hispanic ministry, to replace The St. Francis de Sales Institute De La Torre said Bishop Olson’s one that is more than 20 years old. remains a resource for training catechists emphasis on nurturing the family has In the five years that Bishop Olson has to be effective witnesses of the Gospel resulted in a “family model” approach to been the shepherd of the Diocese of Fort by familiarizing them with catechetical children’s catechesis. Multiple parishes, large Worth, the flock has witnessed multifacet- concepts, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and small, have adopted the model, which ed growth. But while balancing the many lesson planning, and more. encourages parental involvement in handing concerns of a diocese nearly the geographic In-services for directors of religious on the faith. Typically, parents or guardians size of West Virginia, he has maintained the education and RCIA directors have seen are invited into the classroom setting to importance of unity. increased attendance across the board, assist in teaching their child the faith lesson Bishop Olson expressed his hope and De La Torre said, and a partnership with for that month. Results have been positive so prayer for the diocese: that local Catholics Franciscan University in Steubenville has far, and he predicts within the next five years will see their identity in Christ “as the whole “been a blessing.” Through the collabora- the majority of parishes will have integrated diocese and not just our individual parish. . tion, the diocese receives additional online the model. . . That we will be as Christ desires us to be courses for catechists, hosts presenters In September, the diocese hosted the — one. That’s my hope.” throughout the year, and brings in events National V Encuentro on Hispanic/Latino like the upcoming Family Encounter Ministry, which brought more than 3,000 Conference and Steubenville Lone Star Hispanic Catholics to Grapevine. More Susan Moses contributed to this story.

17 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 17 DIOCESE March / April 2019 17 Out of the Darkness

ollowing the example set by the jurisdiction, the Diocese of Fort Worth has Other Texas dioceses Diocese of Fort Worth in 2005, 17 clergymen with credible allegations of join Fort Worth the names of clergy members abusing a minor. Updated on the diocesan credibly accused of sexually website since 2007, the list includes eight by releasing names Fabusing a minor were released January diocesan priests, one permanent deacon, 31 by the other 14 Catholic dioceses in one religious brother, and seven priests of clergy credibly Texas and the Ordinariate of the Chair of from other dioceses or religious orders. St. Peter. The move is an effort by Texas Eleven are dead and several served jail accused of sexual bishops to restore public trust. sentences. None are in active ministry. Compiled independently but released Publishing the list is part of the dio- abuse of minors on the same day, the overall list names cese’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety 278 individual clerics from all 15 dioceses of children and vulnerable adults and its By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen who had credible allegations made against commitment to transparency, accountabil- them in Texas beginning in 1950. A “cred- ity, and healing for victims. ible allegation” is one a diocese believes is “I support the other Texas bishops true after reviewing reasonable and rele- for taking like action,” Fort Worth Bishop vant information and consulting diocesan Michael Olson said in a statement. “This lay conduct review boards and/or other step is taken to assist victims in healing professionals. Such an allegation requires and for the sake of transparency and removal of the accused from ministry. accountability.” In the statewide disclosure, duplicate Calling the protection of children a names appearing on multiple diocesan “seriously grave moral obligation,” the lists and the names of non-clergy were bishop pledged affirmative steps to ensure removed. the safety of children will continue in the The first Texas diocese to publicly diocese. identify priests accused of abuse within its Since 2002, the Diocese of Fort Worth

18 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 18 18 NorthTexasCatholic.org has required all clergy, church employees, been done. SAFE lay ministers, catechists, school teachers, “In multiple incidents over the years, and all volunteers to take a safe environ- the Church and her ministers failed to ENVIRONMENT ment training course. Under new guidelines protect the most vulnerable souls entrust- implemented last year, the course must ed to our care,” he said. “There is no be repeated every two years. Information excuse for the actions of those credibly To Report Misconduct: If you or someone you know is a victim shared during the session encourages and accused of such sins against the human of sexual misconduct by anyone who reinforces a culture of awareness, knowl- person.” serves the Church, including clergy: edge, and vigilance in protecting all persons Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller of within the parishes, schools, and diocese. San Antonio called releasing the names Call the Victim Assistance Hotline To date, 34,000 adults have received cur- of credibly accused clergy the “right at 817-602-5119. rent training to identify the signs of child thing to do” and a “move forward” sex abuse and in building a Call the Director of Safe misconduct. healthier com- Environment at 817-945-9334 and As part of the munity and soci- leave a message. diocese’s zero tol- ety. He said each erance policy, any diocese remains Call the Chancellor of the diocese actual or suspected committed to at 817-945-9315. report of abuse “I pray that healing supporting and is reported to law working with To Report Abuse enforcement for and reconciliation is survivors and or Suspected Abuse: investigation. others affected If you suspect abuse of a child, elder, Prior to achieved for every by clergy abuse or vulnerable adult, or abuse has been serving in ministry by offering disclosed to you, or other volunteer victim of sexual abuse psychological service, applicants and pastoral ser- Call the Texas Department of must pass a com- and that perpetrators vices through a Family and Protective Services plete background victim assistance (CPS) at 800-252-5400. check involving a are brought to justice.” coordinator. National Criminal The Immediately report the alleged and Sex Offender Bishop Michael Olson Personal abuse to your supervisor, priest, search. A signed Ordinariate of or principal and submit the Code of Conduct the Chair of St. Confidential Notice of Concern Agreement is also Peter, which was with CPS report information, mandatory. founded in 2012 contact information on all “It is the and is based in concerned, description of abuse, responsibility of Houston, had dates if known, and how you the Catholic Church to be at the forefront not received any allegations of clergy learned of the abuse. of these efforts at eradicating the evil of abuse of a minor. In a statement, the sexual misconduct with minors in our soci- ordinariate said it will publicly disclose ety through both our words and actions,” any credible allegation should one occur For More Information: To learn Bishop Olson emphasized. in the future. more about our abuse prevention The bishop offered his sincere apolo- Bishop Olson urged the faithful to policies and programs, please visit gies to anyone who suffered abuse perpe- “please join me in praying for all who fwdioc.org/safe-environment trated against them by clergy in the diocese are victims and survivors of sexual abuse or others who worked for the Church. especially as perpetrated against minors. “I pray that healing and reconcilia- Let us work together in our society in tion is achieved for every victim of sexual eradicating this grave evil.” abuse and that perpetrators are brought to justice,” he added. “As your bishop, I will make every effort to prevent anyone from Bishop Olson’s pastoral let- ever again suffering such an indignity.” ter and video regarding the Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of release of names by other Galveston-Houston, president of the U.S. Texas dioceses can be found Conference of Catholic Bishops, expressed at fwdioc.org. his “deepest regret for the harm that has

19 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 19 DIOCESE March / April 2019 19 Ray and Karen Cartier with their dog, Ginger, display maps and collectibles from their travels at their home in Arlington. In 54 years of marriage, the couple has served in many ministries, including St. Vincent de Paul Society and religious education. (NTC/Ben Torres)

Keys to a Lasting Marriage

hen “beanpole” Ray she became even more attractive the more A chance encounter Cartier first saw wife-to-be I eventually learned about her. Even now, leads to 54 years Karen in a room of 300 with both of us in our 70s, I still do.” women at a freshman dor- Although shy, the young college girl told of marriage. But a mitoryW dance at Texas Woman’s University him a few jokes. in Denton, the young man dressed in Air “That started it,” said the 78-year-old successful marriage Force blue was inexplicably drawn to the retiree. “She had me hooked from the start.” brunette with glasses. That led to 54 years of “happy mar- leaves nothing to In the first few moments of meeting her, riage,” he said, highlighted by three children his immediate attraction deepened to “the — Michael, Jon, and Collette — and chance, they say. honeybee with the dark hair.” three grandchildren — Hines, Austin, and “I became very attracted to her because Brittany. when we danced, she was the only girl there In 1979, the Cartiers’ pastor at St. By Marty Sabota to ask me the favor of dancing with a shy Maria Goretti Parish in Arlington asked the friend of hers,” Cartier recalled. “Karen’s couple to become a Marriage Preparation demonstrable caring about someone else set Team. The request, Cartier said, led to their her apart from every other girl I’d ever met. involvement in “this fabulous ministry” for I also found Karen to be very attractive, and the past 39 years, continuing to do so today

20 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 20 20 NorthTexasCatholic.org affection to support. It seems simple, but Cartier has found special ways of channeling the NOT JUST A obvious. When outlining the need for humor, WEDDING he said, “My marriage lifetime goal has been to make Karen laugh at least once Couples marrying in the every day of our marriage. I don’t care Diocese of Fort Worth whether she laughs with me or at me. must complete three But I want her to enjoy something that I steps before the big day. do or say every day that she lives. Doing this has been a success!” Amid the bustle of wedding The journey began in 1960 when planning, these requirements are they met at the Denton dance. Only 38 “teaching opportunities on what’s men showed up, including Cartier and important” and help solidify the two friends who had driven the approx- marriage foundation, according imately 100 miles from his military to Susan Sandles, the director of assignment at Sheppard Air Force Base formation at St. Philip the Apostle in Wichita Falls after flipping a nickel Parish in Lewisville. to decide which direction to spend their In Fully Engaged, sponsor couples days off. such as the Cartiers meet several Karen Cartier said his sense of times with the prospective humor caught her attention when they bride and groom after each has first spoke. completed a premarital inventory Cartier was soon transferred to that assesses their beliefs and Hawaii and over the next few years the attitudes on a variety of topics. Not couple’s devotion grew through corre- only does the engaged couple learn spondence — a clever and romantic more about each other, they learn “competition” that garnered the atten- Church teaching on many subjects tion of all their friends. and see how their sponsor couple It wasn’t just the messages, but the has worked through disagreements. way they were presented. “I had a girlfriend majoring in jour- Engaged couples also attend Pre- nalism who gave me a 37-foot roll of Cana class to learn the theological teletype paper,” Karen Cartier said. “I foundation for the sacrament and wrote his letter down one entire side.” complete a course in Natural Letters came on a beach towel, Family Planning. inside the paper wrappers for straws, Sandles explained marriage at St. Joseph Parish in south Arlington. inside paper towel tubes, on movie preparation helps couples realize Recently, Cartier decided to write posters — he was a theater manager at during the difficult times that arise a brief letter to provide parting instruc- his overseas post — in invisible ink, on in a marriage, “God and the Church tions “to our future couples at the end backs of postage stamps, on bubblegum and His people are behind you. of their six weeks of preparing for their wrappers, and even cut up into confetti The Church is a strong support for own lifetimes together.” that had to be pieced back together. you.” She encourages them to get His wife laughed at the thought of She wrote 44 pages in shorthand involved in their parish. her husband saying anything briefly. and later sent him a way to decode it. “Get to the point,” Karen Cartier, “It was the talk of the campus,” By learning Church teaching on 74, interjected more than once with a Karen Cartier said of the young co-eds Matrimony, the couples see, “It’s laugh when her husband strayed from waiting anxiously for the mail to arrive. not just their day, but their day with the topic at hand or got too wordy They married on Nov. 26, 1964 — God,” she said. “The grace we will during the interview with the North Texas Thanksgiving Day — in the Chicago get in the sacrament of Matrimony Catholic. area where Cartier was raised. will make the marriage stronger.” What resulted from his “brief ” letter “We had actually only seen each was a 19-part guide of approximately other 37 days over four years,” Cartier 6,000 words entitled “How to Make a Marriage Last,” covering topics from Continued on Page 22

21 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 21 DIOCESE March / April 2019 21 From Page 21 said. “It was a paper romance.” They made their permanent home in Tarrant County where she had grown up, eventually moving to a home in Arlington where they have lived the past 45 years — the last nine with their rescue dog, Ginger. In 1976, the couple experienced a Worldwide Marriage Encounter and became more deeply involved in that program for eight years in various leadership roles, as well as in their Catholic faith because of that experience. In their “Cartier News” Christmas newsletter that year, Cartier made a bold statement about their Marriage Encounter Weekend. “The event, which will no doubt have the greatest bearing on our future lives together, occurred over the April 23 weekend,” he wrote. “We experienced a Marriage Encounter Weekend in which we found a totally new way to share our thoughts, feelings, and love with each other. Incidental to that we shared a spiritual growth that was an unexpected but most welcome addition to the beauty of that experience. Now we have once again become young lovers as our marriage and lives have taken on an entire new dimension.” Wanting to share their success, the couple has spent nearly four decades as a volunteer Marriage Preparation Team. “We are doing our best to assist couples who are about to make the commitment to love each other faithfully for the rest of their lives through the sacrament of marriage,” Cartier said. “The question we are asked most often is, ‘How do you make a marriage last that long?’” Ray Cartier holds a 37-foot love letter written by Karen on teletype paper. The couple said there are a myriad of ways the question is (NTC/Ben Torres) asked, but the intent is always: “What have you done that we can do to have a long and successful marriage?” Cartier wrote, “We wish that we could give that a simple answer but it is not simple. We don’t like to say that it takes a lot Both have authored books, his stemming from his stamp exper- of work. Rather we point out that it takes a lot of effort, in many tise and hers on fairy tales, folk tales, island mythology, and legends. different ways, spread out over years. We advise them that there will He has a penchant for bowling; she for sewing and embroidery. be adjustments to their way of living, just as there is in starting their “We are on opposite sides of the spectrum, but it works,” Karen careers in life. The preparation of a good marriage is like the cre- Cartier said. ation of a special meal that requires a multitude of ingredients tied Although the Cartiers — who have ministered to about 175 in with the cook’s patience, caring, and love so that it can be shared couples — have made a listing of many of the ingredients that lead with others who are close.” to a long and happy marriage, both note that no two marriages are Special tips, the instructional letter says, “include compliment- exactly alike. There are other ingredients each couple may need to ing your spouse daily, whether it be fixing that ‘whatchamacallit’ add to their marriage. that you asked him to do, or for something around the house that Cartier said each of the key ingredients is an essential. The he did on his own, or for the surprise kiss or hug. And don’t forget quantity of each one of these, which has to be combined with the commitment, the most basic of all ingredients of a happy marriage: others, is unlimited. commitment.” “But couples can’t get away with using only a pinch or a tea- And yes, don’t forget to have fun. The couple share hobbies. spoonful of this or of that,” Cartier said. “The more that each gives Cartier and Karen have a social stamp-collecting life that includes each of these factors to their marriage cake of life, the better will be his serving as president of the Mid-Cities Stamp Club, which covers the outcome.” Arlington, Euless, and Granbury. He is recognized worldwide as an expert in the field of philately, specifically in the area of postage stamps dealing with NASA, space, Read Ray Cartier’s keys to a lasting marriage and related ventures. at NorthTexasCatholic.org/features They have visited 69 countries together.

22 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 22 22 NorthTexasCatholic.org FIFTYyears Diocese begins golden anniversary celebration with 40 hours of Adoration

By Susan Moses Gainesville, St. Mary in Henrietta, Our Lady of Mercy in Hillsboro, Sacred Heart in Muenster, and St. Stephen he Eucharist in Weatherford. In 1953, with a new designation as the makes us the Diocese of Dallas-Fort Worth, Fort Worth’s significance was Church. This truth acknowledged. is timeless and Pope Paul VI divided the diocese into two, and the universal,T but it’s been selected Diocese of Fort Worth was announced on August 27, 1969. as the theme for a specific and Bishop John Cassata was chosen to lead the 28-county local occasion — the 50th anniversary of diocese, which had 66 parishes and 75,000 Catholics at the the Diocese of Fort Worth. time. The celebration will begin with Mass Currently, the Diocese of Fort Worth is home to an on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and estimated 1.1 million Catholics in 90 parishes. Blood of Christ — also known as the Feast of Corpus Christi — on Sunday, June 23 at 5 p.m. at THE CELEBRATION CONTINUES St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish. The feast day, which was To mark the anniversary of the diocese’s creation, all instituted by Pope Urban IV in 1264, celebrates the real faithful in the diocese are invited to a Mass at the Fort Worth presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist: Body, Blood, Soul, Convention Center on Wednesday, August 21 at 7 p.m. A and Divinity. reception will follow. After the Mass, the Keller church will Although special guests are not remain open for 40 hours of Eucharistic confirmed at this early date, dozens of Adoration, closing with a benediction on bishops from across the country and Tuesday, June 25. Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Three other 40-hour Eucharistic apostolic nuncio to the U.S., are expected Adorations are planned during the to attend. diocese’s anniversary year. Bishop Near the conclusion of the diocese’s Michael Olson specifically requests 50th year, Bishop Michael Olson will prayers for priestly vocations during the accompany other pilgrims on a visit to Adorations because priests are necessary the Marian shrines of France beginning for the transubstantiation of the bread June 2, 2020. Highlights will include daily and wine into the Blessed Sacrament. Mass, the grotto of Lourdes, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the home of St. Therese of Lisieux. THE DIOCESE BEGINS More information about the pilgrimage can be found In 1847, the Diocese of Galveston was founded, which at fwdioc.org/young-adult-ministry-pilgrimage. included all of the great state of Texas (and our hometown The year-long celebration of the anniversary is scheduled favorite, the 23,947 square miles that form the current to conclude as it began, with the celebration of Mass followed Diocese of Fort Worth). by 40 hours of Eucharistic Adoration. St. Peter Parish in As the population grew in North Texas, the Diocese of Lindsay will host the Mass and prayer on June 14, 2020. Dallas was formed in 1890. It contained seven parishes As the anniversary events are finalized, details can be currently in the Diocese of Fort Worth — St. Patrick found at fwdioc.org and in subsequent issues of the North in Fort Worth, St. Joseph in Cleburne, St. Mary in Texas Catholic, as well as our Facebook and Twitter pages.

23 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 23 DIOCESE March / April 2019 23 How local faithful are making sure Catholics with disabilities are included in the life of the Church

By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen since these forms are the essence Photos by Rodger Mallison of the spiritual tie that binds the Christian community together,” hen Jason Whitehead states the revised 2017 document. worked as an autism “To exclude members of the parish therapist with children, a from these celebrations of the life of commonW concern voiced by parents the Church, even by passive omis- involved church attendance. It was sion, is to deny the reality of that an “across the board issue” affecting community.” both Protestants and Catholics. The issue of accessibility, “You’re expected to have your addressed by the bishops, goes ‘stuff ’ together when you’re going beyond installing ramps and remov- into church,” said the diocesan ing barriers for the physically handi- director of faith formation, refer- capped. It also advances the case for ring to the unspoken demand for catechetical and religious programs quiet, motionless children. “If your needed to prepare the mentally child has a particular develop- disabled for the sacraments. mental delay, church can be quite The document lays down a num- troublesome.” ber of general principles for all dio- Feeling unwelcome and conspic- ceses and parishes and goes into detail uous, families with a disabled child regarding the different sacraments. An often stay home from Mass. That’s immediate goal in the Diocese of Fort not what the Catholic Church and Worth is to ensure everyone is on the its American bishops want. same page regarding the guidelines, In the “Guidelines for the explained Whitehead, who also serves Celebration of the Sacraments as the special religious education with Persons with Disabilities,” coordinator. the United States Conference “There has been a misconcep- of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) tion that because a person has spe- acknowledges the gifts and needs of cial needs, there’s no possible way the disabled while also advocating they can understand, therefore, they for their active participation in the can’t have the sacraments,” he con- sacramental life of the Church. tinued. “The bishops made it clear “It is essential that all forms that is an unacceptable response. of the liturgy be completely acces- sible to persons with disabilities, Continued on Page 26

24 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 24 24 NorthTexasCatholic.org Seven-year-old David Garcia, who is autistic, sings during a Mass for special needs Catholics at Holy Family Parish Jan. 12. Garcia was also assigned one of the readings during the liturgy.

25 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 25 COVER STORY March / April 2019 25 Faith mentor Skip Rawley shares with other members of Faces and Hearts of Christ, an apostolate for special needs Catholics, during a faith sharing meeting at The Smokehouse BBQ Restaurant in Denton.

From Page 24 situation arises. the way a person learns and reasons — “My mission is to make sure special but that hasn’t stopped him from studying People with disabilities of all ages have needs ministry is no longer peripheral and his faith and becoming involved in parish the right to be formed and receive the receives the same attention as classical activities. sacraments.” catechesis,” he said. Employed at St. Mark where he works Working towards that end, the diocese He cites Faces and Hearts of Christ in data entry, the 4th Degree Knight of will offer quarterly workshop opportunities — an apostolate serving adults with Columbus admits reading “slowly, one organized as hands-on training sessions, in intellectual impairment — and the recently paragraph at a time” the Catechism of the addition to a central diocesan special needs announced Our Mother of Perpetual Catholic Church, and with good reason. conference hosted each year. Whitehead Help educational program for disabled The burgeoning catechist shares what believes the diocese is ready to recruit men- youngsters, as evidence of the strides the he learns with other members of Faces tal health professionals to train intervention diocese is making. and Hearts of Christ — a new ministry teams who will work with parish catechists “We’re hoping and praying for designed specifically for adults with assigned specifically to the disabled. increased awareness and growth of both cognitive impairment. Launched in 2017 Educating people about the types programs,” he said. “They provide a by Marjorie Looney and Nada Boerner at and degrees of autism, Down syndrome, needed ministry.” Immaculate Conception Parish in Denton, or other impairments and training them the ministry offers biannual retreats, to effectively minister to parishioners is a ongoing fellowship through monthly targeted objective. FACES AND HEARTS Bible study/dinner club gatherings, and “Those who are called to be cate- OF CHRIST sacramental preparation guidance. chists to people with special needs must be What’s the best part about being The one-day retreats are geared for trained on the different techniques that will Catholic? Skip Rawley’s answer reveals a adults who don’t have the physical or men- make their ministry effective,” Whitehead heart for ministry. tal stamina for a three-day ACTS retreat said. “That’s the major move we’re taking “I like sharing my faith with people,” but could still benefit from experiencing right now.” said the longtime St. Mark parishioner. God in a personal and communal way. A special needs liaison between the “It’s a precious gift and every person who is “We cater to the moderately men- diocese and parishes, the director provides Catholic should appreciate that every day.” tally challenged,” said Boerner, a retired continual oversight, resources, and Rawley was born with Mosaic Down special education teacher. “Some of our materials, as well as advice whenever a syndrome — a genetic disorder affecting special needs adults have Down syndrome

26 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 26 26 NorthTexasCatholic.org Members of Faces and Hearts of Christ finish up their faith sharing meeting with group prayer at The Smokehouse BBQ Restaurant in Denton.

or autism. We also His image,” Boerner have people whose MINISTRY explained, adding DID YOU KNOW? mental capacity was MOMENT that the retreat also affected by strokes or ministers to attendees To learn more Alzheimer’s.” about the of other Christian 39.8 million, or Faces and denominations. 12.6 percent of the HOW GOD SEES US Hearts of Christ During each retreat, population in the U.S. With approval retreat and monthly attendees learn about has a disability. from the diocese Scripture study, visit Blessed Margaret of . and Immaculate FHCretreat.org Castello, the ministry’s Conception Pastor spiritual patron. Born In Texas, about 3 million people report Father Tim Thompson, blind, crippled, and th having a disability — the founders crafted an experience abandoned by her family, the 14 cen- about 11.6 percent of that focuses on prayer in the morning tury lay Dominican is considered the the population. and a thought-provoking theme in the patron saint of the disabled. She died afternoon. More than two dozen faith at age 33 after living her life in service to mentors, who work with the disabled others. In Tarrant County, or have a family member with specials Similarly, the ministry reaches out to 10.4 percent of the needs, are part of the ministry and the cognitively challenged who may feel county’s residents come from St. Mark and St. John Paul isolated and forgotten. report having a II parishes, as well as Immaculate “We wanted to offer something to disability. Conception. that population,” Boerner said. “First * United States 2017 American Community Survey “In the morning we talk about how and U.S. Census Bureau. God sees us and why He made us in Continued on Page 28

27 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 27 COVER STORY March / April 2019 27 Debbie Luenser talks with Brigid Conders, 22, during a religion class at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Educational Program.

From Page 27 community and has made friends.” the community to meet those needs.” At the 4 p.m. Mass that concluded The 20 disabled adults who come to of all, we want them to be able to go to the first retreat in September 2017, David each retreat from as far away as Carrollton, a retreat, talk about God and what God received the sacraments of Confirmation Plano, and Dallas are given a t-shirt with means to them. And, if they want, to receive and holy Communion in the company of the motto: I am special. I am important. Because the sacraments.” other disabled adults. I am His. While planning the first retreat, “What an amazing blessing it gave Skip Rawley, now a faith mentor, pre- organizers realized most of the disabled our church that day,” recalled Looney, a pares meditations based on that message adults they met were baptized but received seasoned counselor and advocate for the for his fellow retreatants. When the group no further religious formation. disabled. “It is so beautiful to see people met February 16 , he asked listeners to embrace this amazing community within think about the heart and “what’s precious RECEIVING THE SACRAMENTS our parish.” to a person at any given moment.” David Nawaoba, a cognitively “I can relate to them because, like me, impaired 21-year-old, never made his AN OFFICIAL MINISTRY they have a disability,” he said encourag- first Communion because, “he was never Although preparing disabled adults for ingly. “This ministry helps me shine a light registered for classes,” explained his father, the sacraments is not the primary purpose into other people’s lives. It helps me be a Cyril Nawaoba. “There’s no way he could of the retreats, organizers offer parents better Catholic.” answer questions the regular way to receive information and guidance with help from the sacraments.” the diocese. Faces and Hearts of Christ The native of Nigeria and his wife are wants adults with special needs to have OUR MOTHER OF devout Catholics who attend Sunday Mass their needs met. PERPETUAL HELP at Immaculate Conception. That’s where “We’re now an official ministry of the At first glance, the light-filled, cheerful fellow parishioners Looney and Boerner diocese. I think that tells us where [Bishop space resembles a typical classroom. first noticed David never received the Olson’s] heart is and where the diocese Brightly colored paper flowers border the Eucharist during Communion. stands when it comes to the disabled,” walls, and art supplies fill a large work- “They asked if our son could join Looney assured. “Even if a person can table. There’s a well-used whiteboard, them at Faces and Hearts of Christ,” the only communicate with the blink of an eye, shelves crowded with books, and motiva- dad remembered. “Now, every time they but has an understanding of the Body and tional posters with inspiring messages. have a retreat, I bring him. He likes the Blood of Christ, it is the responsibility of But something is very non-traditional

28 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 28 28 NorthTexasCatholic.org PHOTO GALLERY To view more photos, visit NorthTexasCatholic.org and click on the Photo Gallery tab.

inadequate and continued to explore other options. The idea to invite more youngsters into Brigid’s classroom came after McGehee hired Natalie Lewis, a Texas State University graduate with a degree in special education. “She has such a gift teaching children with special needs,” the founder said, praising the skilled educator. “I could not have started this school without her.” Originally lodged in a two-story home, the program moved to a classroom adjacent to St. Thomas on Azle Avenue to accommodate more students. After the parish built a new church and relocated in 2016, Our Mother of Perpetual Help was given use of a larger building by the religious order that now resides at the site and operates St. Benedict Church.

WELL-ROUNDED PROGRAM SERVES STUDENTS Natalie Lewis, with the help of her dog Offering a specialized curriculum for Chesney (a seven-year-old Yorkie mix), leads a class at Our Mother of Perpetual Help pupils of all faiths from age six to 23, the program is year-round with short breaks of vacation time. Tuition is $12,000 a year. “The schedule helps students retain about this setting. It’s the students. Our 2015 after looking for an effective, faith- information,” McGehee explained. A cat- Mother of Perpetual Help educational based school for her daughter, Brigid, who echist teaches religion once a week and a program provides a Catholic-based learn- has Down syndrome. therapy dog, who looks like Toto from The ing environment for children and adoles- Realizing the youngster was not Wizard of Oz, brings an added measure of cents with special needs. receiving the education she deserved at comfort to the school day. Housed in a building near St. specialized learning centers, the Catholic Although the program serves stu- Benedict Parish in north Fort Worth, convert and her husband, Frank, want- dents with Down syndrome and autism, the nonprofit venture is endorsed by the ed Brigid to attend a Catholic school. it welcomes children with other diagnoses diocese and hopes to expand in the near Finding no program in the diocese for as long as they do not have behavioral future. youngsters with special needs, the devoted problems or are medically fragile. “We’re solvent, stable, and legit- mom decided to start one. “We’re not equipped to handle imate,” affirmed Pamela Mooney McGehee, a property investor, began McGehee, who started the program in home schooling her daughter but felt Continued on Page 30

29 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 29 COVER STORY March / April 2019 29 DID YOU KNOW?

The Catholic special needs community gathers for a Mass and social every second Saturday of the month at Holy Family Parish in Fort Worth. Mass begins at 6:30 p.m. in the chapel. To learn more, visit fwdioc. org/persons-with- disabilities.

Nick Unkefer, 17, greets another parishioner prior to the monthly Mass for the special needs community at Holy Family Parish Jan. 12.

From Page 29 was born with apraxia of speech — a motor and love the Lord,” Myers emphasized. speech disorder that makes it difficult for “There are a lot of children out there who feeding tubes although I’d love to serve a person to talk. A computer tablet, with could benefit from this program.” every child,” McGehee added. special software, helps him communicate. A grant from Neiman Marcus funds an “He’s learning and has matured so PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE arts program and a soccer coach leads stu- much,” said Mary Myers, Jacob’s mother. Special needs youngsters can thrive dents through outdoor drills once a week. “The teachers are wonderful and just if given proper guidance and one-on-one Visits to Casa Mañana and Cliburn recitals love these children.” support, according to Natalie Lewis, the expose youngsters The program program’s lead educator and executive to live performance, provides religious director. Having childhood playmates and life skills — like education and fosters with Down syndrome sparked her lifelong cooking and baking MINISTRY MOMENT a sense of camara- desire to teach God’s special children. — are taught each To learn more about the Our derie for parents and “These kids want to be contributing Friday. Mother of Perpetual Help special needs young- members of society,” insisted the cradle “It’s a very Educational Program visit sters who often feel Catholic who earned a master’s degree in OurMotherProgram.org. well-rounded pro- isolated. special education from Texas Christian gram with the goal “There aren’t a University. “They want to do things — of forming people lot of support groups not just grow up to fold pizza boxes.” who are holy and morally virtuous,” out there,” pointed out Myers, a member Vocational training, job placement, and McGehee added. “We’re here for children of the board of directors who witnessed workplace support are introduced as a stu- with learning differences that Catholic the program’s development from the start. dent approaches adulthood. One graduate of schools can’t accommodate.” “I’m glad to have found this community. the program has begun the transition process. Bolstered by a successful pilot pro- Jacob gets individual attention but also The program is ready to connect with gram, she’s ready to publicize the venture has classmates. When we’re on vacation or families who want a Christ-centered educa- and is applying for grant money from after a long weekend, he’s ready to go back tion for their special needs youngsters. The private foundations. to school because he misses his friends.” program’s holistic approach encourages The owner of St. Anthony’s Church children to reach their potential in an envi- A GAME CHANGER Supplies finds comfort in knowing her ronment that nurtures both body and soul. Attending Our Mother of Perpetual son is in a place where he can grow “We can exceed whatever goals they Help was a game changer for 16-year-old academically and learn about his faith. have at home,” Lewis said. “Miracles are Jacob Myers. The St. Patrick parishioner “I want Jacob to live a good life happening here.”

30 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 30 30 NorthTexasCatholic.org Catholicism in the Wild West

How a hard-driving frontier priest from France rode for Christ into North Texas

By Jerry Circelli

Father Peter Anthony Levy, 1879

man as tough as the post-Civil- Levy’s encounter with the desperados for outlaws. According to the newspaper War, Wild-West times in which the Jan. 6, 1924 Beaumont Enterprise. account, Fr. Levy told them: he lived, Father Peter Anthony While the missionary priest was riding “Boys, you have the drop on me now. Levy was resolutely determined his circuit there around 1875, he unknow- I’ll do as you say. But remember this, I’ll be toA carry out his mission to evangelize pio- ingly crossed into the outlaws’ hideout. The back and I’ll make you line up together and neers in the Lone Star State. bad men yanked the priest from his mount, recite the Lord’s Prayer.” A missionary priest from France, which they promptly added to their own Deprived of his horse, Fr. Levy set out Fr. Levy was assigned by the Diocese of string of horses. They mocked the priest on foot, leaving the ne’er-do-wells more Galveston — essentially the entire eastern and led him to a hanging tree, forcing him amused than angry at the priest’s bold half of the state of Texas after 1874 — to to take a close look at several notches in comments. minister to the faithful and bring the Word the trunk, representing each of their other Their amusement turned to bewilder- of God to all people, many in dire need of victims who had crossed their path. ment a few days later when the outlaws saw hearing it. They told Fr. Levy to hit the road on Fr. Levy riding purposefully back into their Most Texans who knew Fr. Levy saw foot and never to return, lest he die by the camp. He had returned for his horse and to him as a priest full of compassion and same fate. make true on his earlier promise. understanding. They could count on him It is exactly here, at this dusty, desolate “I can knock the eye out of a fly with as a person who kept his promises. Others, Texas crossroads, where we find a deter- this rifle,” Fr. Levy said, as he slid a long like a band of nefarious outlaws in south- mined priest with a hard decision to make. gun from the leather scabbard attached east Texas, learned the hard way that this Does he abandon his normal route, delay- to his saddle. He then proceeded to prove man on a mission allowed no one to stand ing or in some cases denying the sacraments it, putting on a shooting display that quite between Christ and His people. for local Catholics? Does he let evil stand in humbled his astonished audience. A dramatic case in point was relayed his way? They had not realized that the man of by Father E.A. Kelly, pastor of St. Anthony Fr. Kelly passed along more details Parish in Beaumont, who described Fr. of the brush between the priest and the Continued on Page 32

31 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 31 FEATURE March / April 2019 31 From Page 31 Diocese of Fort Worth was a horse and of one could break it. The latter was the wagon. In the bed of the rig, Fr. Levy kept case for Cambridge in 1882 when the Fort the cloth before them had been a sharp- a hand-carved walnut chair, part of his Worth and Denver Railway bypassed the shooter in the French Army before joining trademark “roaming confessional.” town in favor of nearby Henrietta. The the priesthood and coming to Texas. In 1879, Fr. Levy helped a growing population soon left the once-thriving After the dust settled from the shooting group of Catholics in the Clay County com- Cambridge in favor of the new railroad stop exhibition, the outlaws did as the priest munity of Cambridge build a small wooden and county seat of Henrietta. had earlier instructed them and lined church. The arrival of a railroad line could That same year, under Fr. Levy’s up to recite the Lord’s Prayer. It was a make a town in those days and the lack direction, parishioners fashioned a rolling most unconventional but highly effective catechesis for the ruffians, who not only prayed, but also promptly returned the priest’s horse to him. Souls, Sacraments, and Saddles This was the man who came to North Texas in the 1870s to ride a circuit from A band of Wild West outlaws once learned the hard way that they could not stop Fr. Peter Gainesville to Amarillo and the borders of Anthony Levy from making his appointed rounds as a missionary priest. After an encounter the territory of New Mexico and Indian with a band of thieves in southeast Texas, French-born Fr. Levy went on to build churches Territory, present-day Oklahoma. The in what is now the Diocese of Fort Worth, including: meandrous route branched off in a multi- tude of directions. Altogether, including the • St. Mary Parish in Gainesville, est. 1879 • St. Mary Parish in Henrietta, est. 1879 return, it was nothing short of a 1,000-mile and churches completed posthumously faith journey, taking months to complete. • Sacred Heart Parish in Wichita Falls, est. 1891 Fr. Levy’s preferred mode of transpor- • St. William Parish in Montague, est. 1899 tation in what would one day become the His circuit from Gainesville to Amarillo included regular stops in towns:

• Nocona • Decatur • Saint Jo • Belcherville

Henrietta to Amarillo

Belcherville Nocona Wichita Falls

Montague Gainesville Saint Jo

Decatur

32 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 32 32 NorthTexasCatholic.org platform under the church, hooked it up to the country. 18 pair of oxen and hauled it about three As equines are sometimes prone to miles from Cambridge to Henrietta. do, especially around unfamiliar sights, During the span of building the one of Fr. Levy’s horses spooked and church in Cambridge and later carting the darted wildly, sending the priest’s cart out oversized load to Henrietta, Fr. Levy was of control. multitasking, building a house of God for Fr. Levy reportedly died of a fractured Catholics in Gainesville, about 65 miles skull. News of the calamitous accident east. shocked the faithful who knew and Fr. Levy helped parishioners construct depended on him. Inspired by the way the first St. Mary Church in Gainesville in their priest had served the Lord, many 1881. It was a two-room cabin. One room Catholic communities throughout North was used for worship services and the oth- Texas carried on with much of Fr. Levy’s er served as the priest’s living quarters. unfinished work, funding and building The modest, but welcome, rectory new churches and schools he had planned. in Gainesville afforded the circuit-riding This pioneering priest now lies in eter- priest the opportunity to launch off from nal rest inside the Diocese of Fort Worth, a strategic location on his travels through within the walls of St. Mary Church in North Texas and points northwest. Gainesville. A simple marker outside the By 1884, Fr. Levy was frequently serv- church, along the base of the wall, marks ing several Catholic families in Wichita the spot of his interment. A stained glass Falls, celebrating Mass in the homes of the window in the church commemorates the faithful. His work would later give rise to a life of the selfless French missionary priest Catholic community that would one day who served Catholics in the Lone Star become Sacred Heart Parish. State. Around 1886, the industrious priest This resolute, 19th century disciple of was supervising construction of a church Christ did not let any person or any thing for Catholics in Montague. Also around stand in the way of bringing Christ to that time, Fr. Levy was helping firm up a the people of North Texas. Although Fr. strong Catholic community in Nocona. Levy’s life remains relatively unknown, his Among the many towns he served shining legacy reflects brilliantly in rural from 1879 to 1886 were Cambridge, churches in the area. Gainesville, Henrietta, Decatur, Wichita Fr. Peter Anthony Levy’s tireless work Falls, St. Jo, Nocona, Belcherville, and would be a critical first step in the eventual Montague — all inside the boundaries of creation of one of the nation’s largest and the present-day Diocese of Fort Worth. fastest-growing Catholic ecclesiastical At a time that seemed to be at the districts — the Diocese of Fort Worth. apex of his ministry in North Texas — building churches from the ground up, moving them to population centers when needed, raising funding for construction Father Peter Anthony Levy at Rest projects, making plans for future worship alternatively spelled Pierre Antoine Levi facilities, and riding a 1,000-mile circuit Fr. Levy died tragically in 1886, after a — Fr. Levy died tragically on December runaway horse-and-buggy accident while 17, 1886. carrying out his mission. He was buried His death came in service to the Lord. on the grounds of St. Mary Church in According to church records at St. Gainesville, and later re-interred in the Mary Parish in Gainesville, Fr. Levy was southeast corner of the church, where traveling in his horse-drawn rig along a marker at the base of the outside wall the new railroad line near the town. He designates his resting spot. A stained-glass likely had been visiting with hard-working window inside the church (above) honors Catholic immigrants laboring to extend the man with the pioneering spirit who the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe traveled far and wide to bring the Catholic Railway from Fort Worth to Gainesville Church to North Texas and beyond. that year. The major project linked North Texas to one of the longest rail systems in

33 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 33 FEATURE March / April 2019 33 The CASE for LIFE

Personhood and the rebuttal evidence PART 2 By Juan Guajardo

ords have power. Language Monitor (GLM), based testimony. If that evidence coun- They can lift us up. in Austin, pegged the number of tered the above claim, I would be They can express words in the English language at one step closer to a verdict. deep emotions like more than 1 million, stating that love,W gratefulness, and joy. But they about 15 new words are created THE REBUTTAL EVIDENCE can also hurt and be misused. As per day. Combine that with the Critical to the “fetus isn’t a Niccolo Machiavelli makes clear, multiple definitions some words person” claim is the concept of language can be twisted in order to have and it can get messy. personhood. Of course to under- achieve an end. It can be used as Having been introduced to stand why a fetus is or isn’t a per- illusion and there’s agenda behind Machiavellian philosophy in my son, we must first defineperson and illusion. George Orwell’s book political science classes, for the find out who sets the definition. 1984 also reminds us of this. next phase of the Case for Life, A good rebuttal gets to the bottom In fact, the origins of the term I considered it critical to ask: Is of that. “doublespeak” — deliberately a certain phrase, term, or label While pro-choice at that time, ambiguous speech — is traced being used manipulatively, or I admit I hadn’t thought that “per- back to that book. Although the honestly and objectively? Is it a son” meant anything other than term isn’t used in the novel per se, euphemism covering up an ugly human. Boy was I wrong. Poring it’s closely related to the language reality? In particular, I honed over dozens of essays on “person- of the book’s totalitarian regime, in on the meaning of one word: hood” from a variety of disciplines, Newspeak, which was used to push Personhood. Scientifically, I had I found that it’s a tough definition their political agenda. come to the unequivocal con- to pin down. More than ever we can find clusion that human life begins at As a sociological term, its defi- traces of intentionally deceptive conception. But before I could nition varies across time, cultural language in our society’s vocab- grant the verdict that the unborn context, and space. In theology, ulary. Consider the euphemism human is morally equivalent to the it got its start in Christological “downsizing” for “layoffs” and newborn (and therefore it should debates in order to describe the the now well-accepted use of be protected from conception three persons of the Holy Trinity. manipulative language by the onward), I would need to face the In philosophy, it replaced the advertising industry and in politics. claim that abounded amongst my term “rational soul” back in the Consider too, the well-publicized peers: “The fetus isn’t a person.” Enlightenment era. It meant term “alternative facts” used by For this, I relied on the rebuttal different things to different ancient Kellyanne Conway to defend the evidence — any evidence that’s societies, such as the Greeks and Trump Administration in 2017. offered to explain, counteract, Romans. Aristotle, Hippocrates, As of Dec. 2018, the Global or disprove a witness account or Plato, Tertullian, St. Augustine,

34 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 34 34 NorthTexasCatholic.org AM I A PERSON? Throughout history, ethicists, philosophers, and legal experts have failed to come to a consensus on what defines a human person. The legal premise of Roe v. Wade states “personhood” is not inherent but rather something to be attained.

and St. Thomas Aquinas all had different understandings of it. (Augustine and Aquinas both agreed that personhood involved ensoul- ment, but they disagreed on when ensoulment occurred.) In common law and ecclesiastical courts, personhood extended to the child in utero and abortion was generally prosecuted in Western society. The issue did not clear up with the passage of time, unfortunately. The current personhood movement muddied the waters even more, to the point where even pro-abortion advocates can’t agree on why the fetus isn’t a person or even when personhood begins.1 Some activist groups go so far as to ascribe personhood to animals.2 As it relates to the unborn human and the legal perspective (and this is also where the definition impacts our society most profound- ly), the 1973 Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade, gives some insight. (To be clear, in this article I omit juridical personhood, i.e., sovereign states or corporations. We focus solely on natural personhood.) The case got its start here, in North Texas, after Norma McCorvey (Roe) and a pair of attorneys who filed suit on her behalf sought to overturn Texas’ criminal abortion statutes. At the time, most states criminally prosecuted abortion except in cases of rape, incest, or to save the mother’s life. Finding out she was preg- nant, McCorvey was advised to lie that she was raped in order to procure a legal abortion. The schemes failed however, leading to the suit being filed in 1970. (McCorvey wound up giving birth and placing her child for adoption; in a twist of events, she later became a prominent pro-life advocate.) The case revolves heavily around the 14th

Continued on Page 36

35 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 35 ANALYSIS March / April 2019 35 LOOKING CLOSER

The court’s decision in Roe v. Wade led to a 10 WEEKS: Currently, 20 WEEKS: sea change in states’ application of abortion no state protects the Currently, 19 law. No longer could states attempt to curtail right to life of a fetus states protect 10 weeks of age fetal life at abortion before 28 weeks gestation. Once or younger. Even 20 weeks, a felony in many states, the law had now if they wanted to, with opened a Pandora’s box of definitions and such a provision exception protections regarding fetal life. Nineteen years would be ruled to cases of later, another Supreme Court case, Planned unconstitutional rape, incest, because it would or threat to Parenthood v. Casey, reworked the trimester undermine Roe the mother’s framework, moving the point of viability v. Wade. health. forward to around 22-23 weeks gestation.

From Page 35 concluding that personhood is not inher- ent; rather it’s something to be developed. Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which Unfortunately for the fetus, that meant he states: “No state shall make or enforce any law or she wasn’t a “person” until the age of which shall abridge the privileges or immuni- viability. No personhood, no right to life.4 ties of citizens of the United States; nor shall How did the justice determine the any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or point at which personhood starts? In property, without due process of law…” an internal memo to the other justices, Of course, when the passage was written Blackmun admitted that the trimester (Reconstruction era, 1868), the term “person” framework was “arbitrary.”5 was equivalent and interchangeable with With that, the court struck down “human.” The landmark Jan. 22, 1973 deci- what Texas defended — that “life begins REFERENCES sion, however, created a paradigm shift in the at conception and is present throughout 1 Gilbert, Scott. “When Does Personhood legal definition of natural personhood, and pregnancy, and that, therefore, the State Begin?” Swarthmore College, 2018. this was a red flag. has a compelling interest in protecting 2 Lumpkin, Lauren. “PETA put up a billboard In what the legal community at the time that life from and after conception.” In urging Baltimore to stop eating crabs. It didn’t saw as an extreme judicial overreach,3 the the greater scheme, the court had crafted exactly go over well.” The Baltimore Sun, Aug. court ruled that the right to privacy granted a new long-lasting definition of person — 24, 2018. under the Due Process Clause of the 14th one which excluded the embryo (outright) 3 White, Byron R. Byron R. White Papers, Amendment extended to a woman’s right to and the fetus (until the third trimester or 1961-1992 . Manuscript Division, Library of have an abortion. 28 weeks) Eventually, the court’s opinion Congress. As I read on, I noticed the court faced a in Planned Parenthood v. Casey reworked the 4 Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973). dilemma. trimester framework, moving the point of 5 Woodward, Bob. “The Abortion Papers.” Justice Harry Blackmun wrote: viability (around 22-23 weeks) in light of The Washington Post, Jan. 22, 1989. “The appellee [Wade] and certain amici medical advances. 6 Hensley, Jeff, et al. The Zero People. Servant [friends of the court] argue that the fetus is a John T. Noonan, a former U.S. circuit Books, Michigan,1983. “person” within the language and meaning of the court judge and university professor, 6 7 Giubilini, Alberto, Minerva, Francesca. “After- Fourteenth Amendment. In support of this, they criticized the court’s Roe decision. He saw birth abortion: Why should the baby live?” Journal outline at length and in detail the well known it as narrowing the definition of human- of Medical Ethics, 2012. facts of fetal development. If this suggestion ity and thus our protections under the 8 Pacholczyk, Rev. Tad. “Do Embryos Have of personhood is established, the appellant’s Constitution. Instead of the state protect- Souls?” Making Sense of Bioethics, March 2008. case, of course, collapses, for the fetus’ right to ing a human being for the sake of being th 9 Merleau-Ponty, Maurice. “In Praise of life is then guaranteed specifically by the [14 ] human, it was now a compelling interest to Philosophy and Other Essays.” Northwestern amendment.” the state only if the human being had the University Press, Chicago, 1963. “capability of meaningful life.” Not finding a definition for person in the “Human life is defined in terms Constitution, the justice willfully relied on old of this capability,” Noonan explained. tort law, clumsy penumbra, and self-serving “Qualitative standards of the life worthy of misinformation (“There has always been protecting are to prevail…Our old way of strong support for the view that life does not looking on all human existence as sacred begin until live birth”) to contrive his own, is to be replaced by a new ethic more

36 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 36 36 NorthTexasCatholic.org *Guttmacher Institute - An Overview of Abortion Laws

28 WEEKS: By 40 WEEKS: Eight states now the fetus has allow for abortion at EDITOR’S NOTE: entered the any point in pregnancy third trimester without restriction, Look for the conclusion and is viable. including New of the Case of Life — Forty-three York with The Eyewitness Evidence states protect their recent in your next issue fetal life at this “Reproductive of the NTC, due in point, with Health Act.” That varying excep- policy also removed homes April 17-20. tions in cases of protections for infants Part I is available at rape, incest, or threat accidentally born alive NorthTexasCatholic. to the mother’s health. during an abortion. org.

discriminating in who shall live and who It stipulates that the embryo (or fetus) must zero, it would be not only objective, but shall die. The concept of ‘meaningful life’ be treated as if it were a person, as if it were scientific. Even logically that starting is at the core of these decisions.” ensouled, despite not knowing for sure point makes sense because it defines He added, somewhat prophetically, when that happens.8 personhood through the lens of what or “Who shall make the judgment that life has Father Tad Pacholczyk, director who one is — rather than falling into a meaning or the capability of meaning?” of education for the National Catholic functionalist mindset of “what one does.” Through the reading of Roe and relat- Bioethics Center, provided a clue as to So, I was ready to admit that the ed documents, the “fetus is not a person” why the question of the “precise timing claim “a fetus isn’t a person” was wrong, claim was falling apart as the definition it of ensoulment/personhood” is irrelevant and that changing that “isn’t” to an “is” depended on was steeped heavily in subjec- to our defense of life. First, because would be in everyone’s best interest. tivism rather than science and objectivity. sacred tradition has never given the The alternative — severing humanity The rebuttal evidence was, so far, winning Church a unanimous answer as to when from personhood and defining it ourselves out. ensoulment (and therefore personhood) — should give us pause. We’re pretty bad begins. Secondly and most importantly, a at it as our historical record shows; we FROM OTHER VIEWPOINTS fundamental truth we already know trumps too easily dehumanize (i.e., the Rwandan Within ethics, I again found no clear what we don’t know: Genocide or the Holocaust). consensus for personhood. “We do not need an answer to this fascinating What’s more, if personhood is not One extreme example I encountered and speculative question… Rather, we only inherent, we water down the Golden Rule, was courtesy of a pair of ethicists writing need to grasp the key insight that every person the tenets of our faith (and those of many for the Journal of Medical Ethics.7 In their on the planet is, so to speak, an ‘overgrown other religions), and our beloved country’s now infamous 2012 essay, they arrived at embryo.’ Hence, it is not necessary to know “self-evident” truths that “all men are the conclusion that “aborting newborns” exactly when God ensouls the embryo, created equal, that they are endowed by should be allowed in all cases where because, as I sometimes point out in half-jest, their Creator with certain unalienable abortion is because they’re not persons. even if it were true that an embryo did not rights, that among these are life, liberty, The authors admitted both the fetus and receive her soul until she graduated from law and the pursuit of happiness.” newborn are “certainly human beings and school, that would not make it OK to kill her Colleen Carroll Campbell puts this potential persons” but neither is a person by forcibly extracting tissues or organs prior to more bluntly, “If being human is not worthy of a right to life yet. Not until they’re graduation.” enough to entitle one to human rights, able to develop aims and have an apprecia- then the very concept of human rights tion for their lives. So while I had found the point of loses meaning. And all of us — born and Then there were those who would take “personhood” is speculative for almost unborn, strong and weak, young and a scientific question and turn it into a theo- every discipline, Fr. Tad’s argument made old — someday will find ourselves on the logical one. Of course, we know that once a lot of sense — whether one was Roman wrong end of that measuring stick.” it’s relegated there, it’s oftentimes dismissed Catholic or not. Even if we don’t know Better for us to say: All that’s required as irrelevant to the discussion. when the embryo or fetus becomes a to be a person is to be a member of the Surprisingly, I found that trying to twist person or “ensouled,” we do know this is genus and species homo sapiens. Best to personhood into a theological debate was a human being — from the moment of take Machiavelli’s advice and test what’s unnecessary to determining sanctity of life. conception — and that should be enough behind the dialect of euphemism, for the The Church states the human embryo and for us to treat him or her with immense manipulators and seducers “have a feeling fetus must be unconditionally protected as dignity and respect. Plus, if the definition and instinct for it, [and] try their best to sacred, yes. But this “yes” is more nuanced. of personhood begins there, at ground keep it hidden.”9

37 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 37 ANALYSIS March / April 2019 37 The Domestic Church

A Family Fortune

FAMILY WITNESS: Brandi said, “When we are out in public, we get the ‘Wow, you have your hands full!’ quite a lot. My goal is for people to see that there’s joy in having a big family even though it’s challenging, so my response is usually something like, ‘Yes! And I couldn’t be more blessed!’ This is especially unexpected when one of my children is crying! “I think it’s really important for people to see others making children a priority and not treating them like a burden in a society where children are so often marginalized in so many ways.” Ted added, “People like to joke about it. We see it as an opportunity to witness to what we believe about the beauty of life and saying ‘Yes’ to God. We have been very fortunate to have the opportunity to have a large family.”

INVESTMENT ADVICE: Brandi said their marriage “takes a commitment to invest time in one another. Ted and I try to get out together at least once a month, even if it’s just a shopping trip to Walmart. We often spend time cooking by ourselves in the kitchen so we have time to talk and joke and plan.”

PASSING ON THE FAITH: Ted is the director of music for St. Rita, and Brandi is the director of religious education for the four-parish cluster, but Ted explained, “We pray and sing together and make sure the faith is a part of what we do all the time, not just once a week. “When those teachable moments crop up, like when we hear something on the news or when something has happened at school, we use that to relate back to what we’ve experienced through prayer, at Mass, or in religious education. We’re constantly referring THEY ARE: Ted and Brandi Brauker, with daughters Aemelia, Cecilia, and relating all of our life events back to Olivia, Sharon Rose, and another blessing due in April. Married 11 years, what it means to be Catholic.” they are parishioners at St. Rita in Ranger. (NTC/Rodger Mallison)

38 NorthTexasCatholic.org Bridging Language Barriers

arlene Irey believes she made a great decision five years ago, when she left corporate America withD the goal of finding more meaningful work. “I wanted to make a difference,” she mused. “And what could be more import- ant than helping people to bridge gaps of language and culture, so that they can fully communicate with others?” Irey serves as a sales executive with the Translation and Interpretation Network (TIN), the premier full-service language provider in North Texas. TIN, which From left, Darlene Irey, sales executive; was established in 1999, is an innovative Meti Dibra, director; and Deqo Hassan, social enterprise of Catholic Charities Fort interpreter and translator, from the Translation and Interpretation Network. Worth (CCFW). It works with hospitals, (NTC/Ben Torres) skilled nursing facilities, home health providers, schools, immigration offices, the court system, and social service agencies, connecting them with trained and certified very satisfying to see how this work makes training to both our team members and interpreters and translators. such a positive impact,” she said. TIN lin- our clients,” he said. TIN currently offers the services of guists also serve in larger settings, offering Dibra points out that TIN profits are approximately 400 trained contractors simultaneous interpretation at conferences, all given back in support of CCFW and representing fluency in 75 languages, some of which involve services in multiple its mission to eradicate poverty. “Many of including Spanish, Vietnamese, Burmese, languages for thousands of participants our interpreters were refugees who were Arabic, Farsi, and French, among many from all over the world. Glowing praise resettled through Catholic Charities and others. from clients for the courtesy, professional- have now achieved self-sufficiency and a “I try to imagine myself as someone ism, and excellence of TIN translators is sense of great pride through their import- who cannot understand English,” Irey a consistent source of satisfaction to the ant work with TIN,” he said. “Our role is said. “How alone and scared I would feel, entire TIN network, she added. multi-dimensional, as we work to support but then to have someone who knows your That network is constantly growing, that self-sufficiency, and to continue to give language speaking for you, connecting explained TIN’s senior director, Meti back to our community.” with you — that is a powerful gift.” Dibra. “Since day one, our focus is upon For more information about TIN Susan Avila, TIN’s director of oper- excellence, and we see the positive results and CCFW’s social enterprise initiatives, ations, also serves as a Spanish language of that commitment. We are proud to say visit CatholicCharitiesFortWorth. interpreter. “I have worked in children’s that our linguists are rigorously assessed org/our-initiatives or contact TIN at hospitals, in courtrooms, places where it is and trained, and we offer continual 817-289-0050.

March / April 2019 39 CATHOLIC CHARITIES March / April 2019 39 Good Newsmaker

Cradle CATHOLIC

In Gregory Brown’s hands, woodworking tools build community and shape hearts

By Susan Moses to Catholic Charities Fort Worth for HIGHER ASPIRATIONS expectant mothers in need. He has also Brown credits Mary for his big dream, irst, a safety talk. A pro-life contributed more than 50 he made which came to him as he prayed the discussion follows. Next, a independently. Rosary in front of a crucifix one day. teaching on ora et labora — But he isn’t just building baby fur- In the future, he’d like to start a non- St. Benedict’s viewpoint of niture with the Camp Fort Worth teens. profit vocational school to teach carpentry partnering prayer and work. He’s building an understanding that some to veterans, refugees, and individuals Finally, Gregory Brown is prepared to put people have less. He’s building community. experiencing homelessness. powerF tools in the hands of teenagers. The youth see that “coming together to The job training would allow the For almost 20 years, Brown has accomplish a goal, they can make a differ- students to learn a skill that could provide worked with youth at Camp Fort Worth ence,” he said. for their families. Plus, the endeavor would to build baby beds. Under Brown’s careful He’s also teaching that “being pro-life generate a steady supply of cribs and guidance, more than 300 cribs have been is walking with that mother — not just furniture for impoverished families moving infused with prayers for the mother and in the decision to give birth to her child, into housing. baby through the measuring, cutting, but helping her after her baby is born. To Brown enthused, “It would be so sanding, constructing, and painting phases. assist her with the needs she will have.” beautiful to take [building baby beds at He explains to the campers that work- The 34-year-old has personally deliv- Camp Fort Worth] a step further and do ing with their hands provides the oppor- ered some of the cribs to mothers through more good with the gifts we’ve been given. tunity to pray without ceasing. “While the Gabriel Project, which provides prac- Carpentry is a meaningful, task-oriented the physical crib is very important and tical help to women in crisis pregnancies. job.” He learned woodworking as a child everybody should have one, the prayers Receiving the baby bed “gives them an air by observing his grandfather use hand that go along with that are very powerful,” of hope that ‘I can do this.’ Usually they tools in the garage. he said. don’t say very much, it’s just a lot of ‘thank Brown is content to patiently wait and The hand-crafted cribs are donated you’s’ and a lot of tears,” he recalled. see if the opportunity to open a carpentry

40 NorthTexasCatholic.org At a Camp Fort Worth 20th anniversary celebration at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Keller, Gregory Brown and former campers painted baby cribs constructed last summer. (NTC /Ben Torres)

school arises, because “it’s not my idea. It’s Brown went on to spend a year with to the gala and a couple of friendships. straight-up Mary’s idea. It all comes back NET Ministries and serve as a youth min- “It’s beautiful, to be able to go along in to prayer,” he said. ister for 12 years, mostly at St. Catherine your daily life and go wherever God sends Prayer is what made faith come alive of Siena Parish in Carrollton and Our you and be able to put your faith into for Brown. As a high school sophomore, Lady Queen of Peace Parish in Wichita action without trying,” said the parishio- he “sat in the back and just didn’t pay Falls. In 2018, he became a Knights of ner of St. Peter Parish in Lindsay. attention” during confirmation classes at Columbus field agent based in Cooke A fourth-degree Knight of Columbus, St. Bartholomew Parish in Fort Worth. He County. Brown joined the Catholic fraternal was challenged to pray five minutes a day service organization in 2006 and embrac- but told his small group leader “I don’t “INNATE DESIRE TO SERVE” es their ideals of charity, unity, and have time for that.” Brown has “noticed in my life I just go fraternity. After many weeks, the stubborn teen places. I get invited somewhere. I just show He explained, “We are devoted to the opened himself up to God and began up, and God provides me the opportunity Holy Mother Church, to the great deposit to pray and read Scripture. He remem- to serve. That’s been one of the biggest of faith we hold true, and to her true trea- bered, “The Word of God is truly how blessings in my life, to just show up wher- sures — the poor and most vulnerable.” God revealed Himself to me. . . . Within ever God sends me, wherever He leads me, It’s those poor and most vulnerable six months, to sit down and pray for 45 and to be able to use my gifts and talents who are sleeping in beds that Brown built minutes was nothing.” as needed.” with Camp Fort Worth students. Since then, he describes himself as For example, he dropped off a baby According to Brown, giving up two, “hooked. The Word of God is alive and bed at a nonprofit gala and noticed the sometimes three, weeks each summer to revealing to us this great opportunity, this set-up committee struggling to build the build cribs has been a gain, not a sacrifice. great faith. It pretty much has become the backdrop. His offer to help was accepted, “What draws us closer to holiness is ordi- only thing I want to learn about, and I and he soon found himself in charge of nary — doing good for others, and seeking want to share and teach.” the construction, resulting in an invitation after something greater than ourselves.”

March / April 2019 41 Let us Lectio

WHEN YOU FAST Ash Wednesday

NTC/Juan Guajardo March 6, 2019

Start by using the steps below to reflect THE SCRIPTURE on the Scripture verse. Then read Callie’s GOSPEL FOR MARCH 6, 2019 — ASH WEDNESDAY meditation, reflecting on it slowly. Jesus said to his disciples: “Take LECTIO care not to perform righteous others may see them. deeds in order that people may “Amen, I say to you, they First you deliberately read the see them; otherwise, you will have received their reward. passage, noting phrases that Scripture texts have no recompense from your “But when you pray, go to in this work are move your heart. heavenly Father. your inner room, close the door, taken from the “When you give alms, do not and pray to your Father in secret. New American MEDITATIO blow a trumpet before you, as the And your Father who sees in Bible, revised hypocrites do in the synagogues secret will repay you. edition © 2010, Secondly, ponder these words and in the streets to win the “When you fast, do not look 1991, 1986, 1970 and ask God in prayer, “What do praise of others. gloomy like the hypocrites. They Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, you desire that I hear in this?” “Amen, I say to you, they neglect their appearance, so that Washington, D.C. have received their reward. they may appear to others to be and are used by fasting. ORATIO “But when you give alms, do permission of the not let your left hand know what “Amen, I say to you, they copyright owner. Third, speak back to the Lord as your right is doing, so that your have received their reward. All Rights Reserved. your heart is moved. almsgiving may be secret. And “But when you fast, anoint No part of the New your Father who sees in secret your head and wash your face, American Bible may will repay you. so that you may not appear to be reproduced in CONTEMPLATIO “When you pray, do not be be fasting, except to your Father any form without like the hypocrites, who love to who is hidden. And your Father permission in writing from the Finally, be still, trusting in His stand and pray in the synagogues who sees what is hidden will copyright owner. presence. Simply rest in the and on street corners so that repay you.” Word of God. — Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

42 NorthTexasCatholic.org WANT MORE LECTIO DIVINA? Read more of Callie’s columns at NorthTexasCatholic.org/ inspiration-news

THE REFLECTION

ent is not the “time not withhold from others the that we fast,” as if we grace and gifts given to us. should not or do not In order to imitate Him who Lfast any other time of the year. fasted, we learn to live in the But rather, as our Orthodox world and not of it, for we brothers and sisters remind us, know that all creation belongs this is the time of to God and that our “Great Fast.” we are merely Lent is a stewards. time to examine Lent is a time These are our fidelity as essential to live disciples and to to examine well in Christ: To more closely cling give generously, to and imitate our fidelity as to pray in silence, Jesus. and to fast What is disciples and to regularly. Not a disciple? A only are these disciple is one more closely normative to the who seeks the Christian life, but Creator above cling to and we as Catholics the creation imitate Jesus. take these actions (fasting), even more participates in seriously during His work of mercy and grace Lent. These are not merely (alms), and most especially, a seasonal activities, or even an Scripture texts disciple is a person of prayer. opportunity for competition in this work are Through living our life rightly among Catholics, but rather taken from the ordered, full of prayer, and in an outpouring of who we are New American imitation of Christ, we come in Christ. Bible, revised to know, love, and serve Him We are to give generously edition © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 who loved us so much He died because it was God who first Confraternity of on a cross for us. was generous with us, time and Christian Doctrine, In order to imitate and time again. We fast not to diet Washington, D.C. to follow Him, we make it a from sweets, but to remember and are used by priority in our schedule to sit intimately that He is God and permission of the with Him and pray. In order that we are not. We pray, and copyright owner. to imitate Him who gave all in doing so, we remember that All Rights Reserved. He had — even His mother we are frail in our humanity No part of the New To Advertise in the NTC: and His very breath — we do and dependent on Him. American Bible may Please contact us at be reproduced in [email protected] or call any form without Callie Nowlin, MTS, is a 817-945-9424. All advertising permission in writing from the convert turned Director of sizes and rates are at copyright owner. Religious Education, catechist, NorthTexasCatholic.org/ and blogger with a passion for advertising-page Scripture and helping others on their journey toward Christ.

March / April 2019 43 Take 5 with Father

Life with Faith

HE IS: Father Tim Thompson, pastor of Immaculate ON FAITH: “Life without faith is a meaningless Conception Parish in Denton and judicial vicar. endeavor. Life without faith is a pointless existence. But a person GROWING UP: The family owns a funeral home, which kept in faith is finding the meaning Tim and his five siblings busy behind the scenes, vacuuming, of life. So if they can keep moving flowers, and running errands. their attention focused on the whole purpose, they LOCALLY SOURCED: Fr. Tim was educated at St. Mary, would never leave. They St. Andrew, Holy Family, and Nolan Catholic Schools. couldn’t quit that.”

THE CALL: Fr. Tim began considering a religious vocation WHY HE IS as a teen, feeling a call while serving at a Stations of the Cross CATHOLIC: “It’s what service on Good Friday. After attending a priestly ordination Jesus willed for His commu- before his senior year of high school, he began to make plans nity. It’s where I’ve encoun- for seminary. tered Christ. It’s where you find most fully God’s grace ORDAINED: Where he was an altar server in his youth and truth. I experience it most — Holy Family Church in Fort Worth, on July 16, 1982. in the Eucharist, but in forgive- ness, Reconciliation, anointing BEST PARTS OF BEING A PRIEST: those who are ill, I just have a “Participating in Sunday Mass — praying with sense of God’s active the community and reflecting on the Gospel, presence.” preaching. But also when you can be there for a person in a difficult moment — whether that’s sickness in a hospital or somebody’s struggle in Reconciliation — can be satisfying, to know you’re helping someone . . . hopefully a moment of grace for them.”

SEEING THE BIGGER PICTURE: “Mass can be a pain sometimes. It’s hard to hear and the kids are crying. But some of those things are a wonder- ful part of Mass. It’s a really human, communal experience. We can focus so much on those annoying things, we miss out on the bigger picture there — the real experience of people of faith and prayer.”

NTC/Juan Guajardo

4444 N orthNorthTexasTexasCatholiCatholic.orgc.org SEEKING GOD’S PATH

Remove your Sandals...

he time of Lent is approaching. with His grace the deepest depths of the committed to doing the will of God in This is a wonderful time for human being, is God Himself. their lives. listening to the voice of God In that encounter, he who is being The Lenten season is a favorable Tin our lives, especially as a time of called must renounce himself, allow time to speak heart-to-heart with God, discernment of His holy will in our lives himself to be guided and molded by God, who is always new, who continues to and for our lives. and surrender to His will. Filled call real men to make them instruments This sacred time evokes with humility and simplicity of His love and grace on behalf of His entering the desert, that is, of heart, he responds with people. The priesthood is a blessed call allowing God to speak to us generosity to His will, that is, that requires prayer and abandonment in and listen to Him without the with courage, not being afraid Him. distraction of other voices. to give up his life and totally We invite you, young man in the Listening only to His voice. abandon himself to the will of Diocese of Fort Worth, to enter the desert Moses, in his escape to God. of your heart, as Moses did, to listen the desert, encounters that Fr. Manuel Holguin It is important to leave the to His voice, abandon yourself to His fundamental moment of his sandals aside, recognize that will, discover His plan for you, and to be life in which God manifests His liberating the PRIESTHOOD is not a human, but generous in your response to His divine plan. God, who hears the cry of His divine plan, and on behalf of the people call. people, calls Moses to collaborate with of God. This call comes from God, who Son, come to us, we want to Him in His plan of freedom for His is holy and invites those He wants to accompany you on your path of people. collaborate with Him in this blessed plan discernment. Your Bishop Michael Olson In that meeting at Horeb, God invites of salvation. and the four vocations liaisons pray for Moses to renounce himself and be guided Today, God hears the cry of His you and entrust your vocation to the by His grace, and to be an instrument of people who need messengers of hope, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of His salvation for His people. “Remove emissaries who listen to the voice of God, the High Priest, so that she may always your sandals from your feet, for the who let themselves be transformed by guide your journey. place on which you are standing is holy Him, who are brave and who trust in His Servus meus es Tu, in quo Gloriablor! ground.” (Ex 3:5) word, who risk their lives to serve God “You are My Servant, In Whom I will In order to be an instrument of God, and the Church. show My glory.” Is 49:3 the young man who discerns his vocation Young man, I say to you that are needs to enter an intimate dialogue with being called by God, to enter the desert, God in the desert through prayer, taking listen to His voice, let yourself be shaped time to listen to His voice that is always by Him, leave your sandals, renounce clear, penetrates the heart, and reveals yourself, and respond with generosity. The Ordained to the priesthood in 2012, Father His will. There in that sacred space of Church of the present time needs men of Manuel Holguin is the pastor at Saint Peter the intimacy with the One who calls, with prayer, in love with God, generous in their Apostle Parish in Fort Worth and serves as a Him who seduces the heart and who fills response to the service of His people, and liaison with the Vocations Office.

March / April 2019 45 PROTECTING WHAT’S SACRED

Special Needs are the Most Vulnerable

ome children are more likely to be their families may be more socially isolated, of individuals to protect themselves. People abused than other children. Certain reducing their support networks. Also, there with developmental or psychiatric disabilities factors may increase the vulnerability are often additional emotional, physical, and often struggle with determining when to be ofS a child to sexual abuse. financial demands on families raising a child compliant and when to assert themselves. Factors include having dis- with a disability. Consequently, they are at risk to be victimized abilities, emotional or behavioral Increased vulnerability. both when they comply too easily and when disturbances, having been previ- Children with disabilities might they refuse to comply and suffer retaliation. ously abused (physically, mentally, lack a good understanding of Perceived vulnerability factors in the selec- or emotionally), or being isolated social relationships, personal tion of an individual with a developmental from friends and family members. boundaries, protective behaviors, disability as a victim. Often offenders — par- According to the Vera Institute of sexual awareness, and/or what ticularly sexual offenders — are particularly Justice, special needs students are abuse is. Children with a physical drawn to individuals they consider vulnerable. Richard Mathews 4.6 times more susceptible to be vic- disability may be more vulnerable One study found 44 percent of perpetrators tims of sexual abuse due to isolated to rough and intrusive personal made initial contact with their victims through settings with adults who may take advantage care and may be physically unable to resist special services provided to people with disabil- of them. or avoid abuse. They may have increased ities. In addition, some offenders are them- Children with disabilities or special needs difficulty in communicating and may even selves afflicted with a developmental disability. are the most vulnerable people because they accept abusive treatment due to low under- Victims who have disabilities may are especially dependent on others for help. standing or self-esteem. allow themselves to be in risky situations or Research has shown that 60 percent of child While the Diocese of Fort Worth’s Safe be victimized because life offers them few sexual abuse is committed by persons known Environment program is primarily directed alternatives; for example, retaining an abusive and trusted by the child and parents. Also 97 at the protection of children and youth from caretaker because no other caretaker can be to 99 percent of abuse victims with devel- sexual abuse, the Protecting God’s Children® pro- found. opmental disabilities knew and trusted their gram is comprehensive in nature and includes We are called to protect and defend the abusers. the protection of all God’s children, including dignity of every human person, and especially Why are children with disabilities more those who are the most vulnerable. those with special challenges, special needs, or vulnerable to abuse and neglect? To better protect these youth, it’s import- disabilities. Lack of awareness. Some methods of ant to know some factors involved. People managing behavior might be seen by some with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to people as acceptable when they are actually crimes involving violence, such as physical or abusive. Negative community attitudes about sexual assault because — regardless of age Richard Mathews is Director of Safe Environment disability can also contribute to abuse or or gender — they are often the least able to for the Diocese of Fort Worth. A former neglect not being recognized, or not being recognize danger, to protect themselves, and/ prosecuting attorney, he also served as the believed. or to communicate or obtain assistance. General Counsel for the Boy Scouts of America Isolation. Children with disabilities and A disability can directly affect the capacity and for Trail Life USA.

46 NorthTexasCatholic.org GROWING AS A CHRISTIAN

Be You. Be Holy.

any years ago, on a silent but striving for sainthood helps our true and I am going to pray more. retreat at Montserrat, I heard self bloom to fullness.” What Jason said But I plan to take it up a notch an interesting thing from the gives us a clue about how to achieve the from my usual efforts. I am considering Mpriest leading the prayer talks. Father’s plan for whom we can giving up one or more of these things: He was expounding on the become. all television, all social media, music idea of imitating Jesus. This The idea that sin dulls our that doesn’t lift my heart to God, warm notion is not about us trying to individuality really resonates with showers, sugar, snacking between meals, be Jesus. We cannot be Jesus. me. When we sin, we become staying up late at night, alcohol, and There was only one Jesus, Son like everyone else. We bow to the sweetened drinks. Whatever I decide to of God, Son of Mary. He went lowest common denominator. fast from, I want it to impact my typical on to say it is even hard to be Oftentimes, it doesn’t feel that day to the point that I notice it and that it like Jesus because though He Jeff Hedglen way. Sin is so deceptive. It can even hurts a little bit. I also want it to free is fully human, He is also fully make us feel special and, at least up some time because the other part of divine. If we are judging our spirituality momentarily, like we are living our best my plan is to pray every day for an hour, on how closely our lives resemble Jesus, life. But the reality is that we all sin. There with at least 20 minutes of that in silence. the miracle worker, we will probably are only so many commandments we can Striving for sainthood means acting always be disappointed. break and vices we can succumb to, so like the saints, and they are known for Rather, he said we can strive to be like sooner or later we are all swimming in the doing some pretty radical penitential Jesus in that He was the perfect realization same cesspool of sin. practices and spending a lot of time in of what the Father imagined Jesus would Yet, when we strive for holiness we prayer. This Lent let’s stop letting sin dull be when He implanted Him in Mary’s rise out of the homogenous pool and into our individuality and strive to shine as the womb. Thus, we are to strive to be the the realm of our individuality. The more person God has made us to be. The world person God created us to be. Only one we grow in holiness, the more our true needs us to shine the light of God’s love. Jeffrey David Hedglen was born in Simi giftedness can shine. God made each of us But before we can reflect the light, we Valley, Calif. on Jan. 8, 1965. God has a purposefully. Sure, we have many of the have to dust ourselves off and bask in the particular image in His mind of whom same gifts, talents, and characteristics, but glory of His presence. He knows I can be. It is my job to strive to each of us also shines in a particular way develop into that person. that sets us apart. Last month at SEEK, a Catholic Armed with this new information collegiate conference sponsored by about how sin dulls my true self, I am the Fellowship of Catholic University gearing up for Lent as a time to grow in Students, Jason Evert, one of the keynote holiness and become stronger so as to speakers, said something that brought to avoid temptation more. I am doing this Jeff Hedglen is the Campus Minister at University mind the message from that silent retreat. with two of the classic Lenten practices. of Texas at Arlington and the primary founder of He said, “Sin dulls our individuality I am fasting from things I really like to do Camp Fort Worth.

March / April 2019 47 FAITH AND REASON

CHURCH ARCHITECTURE Draws us toward Christ

Marlon De La Torre is the Department Director of Catechesis and Evangelization for the Diocese of Fort Worth.

sacrifice is that it is perpetually expressed sacrifice for all humanity. The third element through the beauty of church architecture. would be the position of the holy water font e often hear the phrase: One may ask the question, “Why all the fuss at the entrance of the church signifying “beauty is in the eye of over statues, altars, candles, and sanctuaries?” a renewal of our Baptism and baptismal the beholder.” Beyond the The main reason for this “fuss” is that all promises. The fourth element would be premise of this phrase, points of church architecture aim to draw the position of the altar of sacrifice that naturalW beauty owes its existence from the us into the mystery of Christ and initiate stands significant and stationary where the author of beauty, God the Father. When a conversion of heart in order to faithfully celebration of the Mass occurs. The fifth and the fall of Adam and Eve resulted in a participate in the holy sacrifice of the Mass most important element is the tabernacle fracture of this beauty, God provided the that Christ instituted. where our Lord is located in the Eucharistic ways and means for man to resuscitate The moment one enters through the species (host). himself and eventually rediscover his doors of a Catholic church, the physical Church architecture, if properly ordered, identity through His Son Jesus Christ. structure of the church would typically be directs us toward Christ. In doing so, it When Christ offered Himself in sacrifice in a cruciform (cross position) to reflect the provides the opportunity to have an intimate for the sins of humanity, He left us an indelible sacrifice of Christ on the cross. The second relationship with Him by way of our active (permanent) mark that would forever remind significant element would be the crucifix participation in reception of the Holy us of His Sacrifice — i.e., the institution of above the altar signifying the crucifixion of Eucharist, which is the source and summit of the Holy Eucharist. The significance of this Christ and reminding us of His ultimate our Christian life.

48 NorthTexasCatholic.org What key architectural elements into one life of Christ. Water signifies the presence of Christ of the Catholic church set an signifies a purity, a cleansing, where we have the consecrated atmosphere of reverence? but it’s also an initiation into host in the tabernacle, and it tells the Kingdom of God. Every all the congregants that Christ is “We have a beautiful nave, altar, time you walk into the Catholic truly present here. Especially if and sanctuary. So when you walk church you’re going to notice you were to go to Adoration, you into any Catholic church, you’re a holy water font, and that would definitely see the candle, going to be walking east which beautiful font is aimed for us typically enclosed in a red vase, signifies the entrance into the glory to place our fingers and make signifying that Christ is present. of God, and immediately you’re the sign of the cross on our In very simple terms it signifies awestruck by the beauty of an altar, foreheads with holy water, that Christ is the light of grace a tabernacle, steps, and also pillars renewing our baptismal call for all humanity.” that direct them toward the beauty and telling the whole world that of the church. You have beautiful we’re walking into a heavenly statues of the saints typically, and liturgy on Earth. Our Baptism also stained glass windows. All aim prepares us to see Christ more How did the design and idea of at helping the person develop a clearly in what we’re about to the tabernacle come about? reverence for Christ and a reverence hear in the Liturgy of the Word for what they’re about to walk into, and receive in the Liturgy of “There are several elements which is the liturgy itself.” the Eucharist.” involved in the development of the liturgy and the structure or the architecture of a church. From a biblical perspective, Why do Catholic churches have you have to look and go back a crucifix with an image of the What is the significance of the to Exodus 20, where you see suffering Christ? red candle? first the introduction of the Ten Commandments. There “One thing that’s significant about “Typically, when you walk into had to be a place to house the Church is that it is of Christ. It a Catholic church, or you’re those commandments. That comes from Christ. It is from the going to Adoration, you see a was significant to the people of perspective of what Christ did as red candle near the tabernacle. Israel. This is where we see from the Incarnate Word. One of the That signifies that Christ is Exodus 24 on, the development beautiful things that Christ did was present here. This is taken of the sanctuary, a structure He offered Himself up, body, soul, from the old Jewish ritual of where they would hold the Ten and divinity for our salvation. The signifying that God is here, Commandments, a construction representation of what He did is present in our midst. The light of that altar, or the arc of shown in the form of a crucifix. the covenant. These became That’s why you see a crucifix in elements associated with the every Catholic church all over the early structure of the Church. world because it’s a representation WANT MORE Now jumping centuries of what Christ did on the cross, INFORMATION? forward to the advent of the His salvation, and His crucifixion Watch the full video early Church, especially after tied to our humanity and for our and find out more about Constantine, he took elements opportunity to grow with Him this and other faith topics of the old pagan temples and through the liturgy.” through the following: really re-conformed them to northtexascatholic.org/ be houses of prayer. Taking video-gallery the element of the old Jewish fwdioc.org/ ritual and the tabernacle itself Why is holy water at the entrance adult-faith-formation and placing it at the heart of to the main body of the church? fwdioc.org/st-junipero- Christian worship. This becomes serra-institute a longstanding development of “One thing that is significant about how we see our current church Catholics is that we are baptized architecture as it is.”

March / April 2019 49 TIEMPO PARA Celebrar

La Diócesis comienza la celebración de su aniversario de oro con la Adoración Eucarística

a Eucaristía nos hace Iglesia. estado de Texas (y nuestro favorito Aunque los invitados especiales no Esta verdad eterna y universal, territorio de 23,947 millas cuadradas que han sido confirmados todavía, se espera pero ha sido seleccionada forma la actual Diócesis de Fort Worth). contar con la asistencia de docenas de como el tema para una ocasión A medida que la población creció obispos de todo el país y el Arzobispo Lespecífica y local: el 50mo Aniversario de la en el Norte de Texas, la Diócesis de Christophe Pierre, el Nuncio Apostólico Diócesis de Fort Worth. Dallas se formó en el 1890. En aquel de los Estados Unidos. La celebración comenzará con una entonces contenía siete parroquias que Cerca de la conclusión del año del Misa de la Solemnidad del Santísimo actualmente están en la Diócesis de Fort 50mo Aniversario de la Diócesis, el Obispo Cuerpo y la Sangre de Cristo, también Worth – St. Patrick Cathedral en Fort Olson acompañará a otros peregrinos en conocida como la Fiesta de Corpus Worth, St. Joseph en Cleburne, St. Mary una visita a los santuarios marianos de Christi, el domingo 23 de junio a las 5 en Gainesville, St. Mary en Henrietta, Francia a partir del 2 de junio del 2020. p.m. en la Parroquia de St. Elizabeth Our Lady of Mercy en Hillsboro, Sacred Entre los eventos y lugares destacados se Ann Seton en Keller. La fiesta, que fue Heart en Muenster y St. Stephen en incluirán una Misa diaria, la Gruta de instituida por el Papa Urbano IV en el Weatherford. En el 1953, con una nueva Lourdes, la Catedral de Notre Dame y el 1264, celebra la presencia real de Jesús en designación como la Diócesis de Dallas- Hogar de Santa Teresa de Lisieux. la Sagrada Eucaristía: Cuerpo, Sangre, Fort Worth, se reconoció la importancia Puede encontrar más Alma y Divinidad. de Fort Worth. información acerca de la Después de la Misa, la iglesia de El Papa Pablo VI dividió la Diócesis peregrinación en fwdioc.org/ Keller permanecerá abierta durante en dos y así nace la Diócesis de Fort young-adult-ministry-pilgrimage. 40 horas de Adoración Eucarística y se Worth, que se anunció el 27 de agosto La celebración del Aniversario de concluirá con una bendición el martes 25 del 1969. El Obispo John Cassata fue Oro, que durará un año, está programada de junio. elegido para dirigir la nueva diócesis de para ser concluída de la misma manera Se han planeado otras tres 28 condados, que tenía 66 parroquias y que comienza, con la celebración de la Adoraciones Eucarísticas de 40 horas 75,000 católicos en ese momento. Misa seguida de 40 horas de Adoración durante el año de aniversario de la Actualmente, la Diócesis de Fort Eucarística. La clausura del año de Diócesis. El Obispo Michael Olson Worth alberga aproximadamente a 1.1 aniversario se celebrará el 14 de junio solicita específicamente que oremos por millones de católicos en 90 parroquias. del 2020 en la Parroquia de St. Peter en las vocaciones sacerdotales durante las Lindsay. Adoraciones, ya que los sacerdotes son LA CELEBRACIÓN CONTINÚA A medida que se sigan planificando necesarios para la transubstanciación del Para conmemorar el aniversario de la los eventos del Aniversario de Oro de pan y el vino en el Santísimo Sacramento. creación de la Diócesis, se invita a todos nuestra Diócesis, se podrá encontrar los fieles de la Diócesis a una Misa en el información adicional en fwdioc.org EL COMIENZO DE LA DIÓCESIS Centro de Convenciones de Fort Worth el y en las publicaciones posteriores de En el 1847 se fundó la Diócesis de miércoles 21 de agosto a las 7 p.m. Habrá North Texas Catholic, así como en nuestras Galveston, que incluía a todo el gran una recepción después de la Misa. páginas de Facebook y Twitter.

50 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 50 50 NorthTexasCatholic.org El Pastor Siervo

“Tomé mucho tiempo visitando diferentes iglesias, en su mayoría iglesias de esta diócesis, y oré mucho. Pedí que el Señor me diera la sabiduría, paciencia, comprensión y fortaleza para hacer lo que Él me pedía por el bien del pueblo de Dios aquí”.

Continúa en la Página 52

El Obispo Michael Olson bendice los óleos durante la Misa Crismal en la Catedral de San Patricio en el 2018. (NTC/Jayme Donahue)

51 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 51 NOTICIAS Marzo / Abril 2019 51 De la Página 51

Por Juan Guajardo condados, 90 parroquias y una misión. Wallis. “Hemos tenido a veces hasta más Al celebrarse los cinco años de de 50 hombres discerniendo en estos uchos de nosotros ya episcopado del Obispo Olson, deseamos eventos, lo que ha sido sin duda un gran conocemos bien la historia. resaltar el gran y variado desarrollo que éxito”. Pero el Obispo Michael ha ocurrido durante este tiempo. Durante los últimos dos años, el Olson recuerda hasta el equipo ha estado muy ocupado y han másM mínimo detalle. LAS VOCACIONES auspiciado diversas oportunidades de Hace cinco años, el entonces El sello distintivo del programa de discernimiento, como los Desayunos Monseñor Olson entró en su oficina de la vocaciones diocesanas ha sido un enfoque y Cenas de San Andrés (St. Andrew’s Universidad de Dallas. Notó que habían concertado y determinado para fomentar Breakfasts and Dinners), en los que dejado un mensaje de voz y descolgó el una cultura de vocaciones. jóvenes interesados en conocer sobre teléfono para escucharlo. Era un mensaje Para hacer esto realidad, el Obispo el sacerdocio asisten a Misa y luego del Nuncio Apostólico en los EE. UU., Olson nombró en el 2017 un equipo comparten una comida y discusión acerca alguien que jamás lo había llamado antes. de enlaces vocacionales dedicados a la del discernimiento; visitas de seminaristas Al cabo de varios minutos y profunda tarea de fomentar vocaciones, en lugar a las escuelas católicas; y las visitas “Ven oración, la vida de Monseñor Olson de un solo director de vocaciones, como y ve” dos veces al año al Seminario de cambió para siempre. El Nuncio le había en muchas otras diócesis del país. El Louisiana. El Padre Maurice Moon, comunicado la noticia de que el Papa Padre Jonathan Wallis, Director Francisco había designado al Rector del de Formación de los seminaristas Seminario como el nuevo Obispo de la de la Diócesis, llamó esta decisión Diócesis de Fort Worth. revolucionaria. En las semanas previas a su Este acercamiento ha dado a los instalación, celebrada el 29 de enero del sacerdotes enlaces más tiempo para 2014, el Obispo Olson hizo lo que sigue acompañar y guiar a los hombres que haciendo hoy día cuando se enfrenta están discerniendo su vocación, de a las grandes decisiones, los desafíos modo que, para el momento en que u oportunidades: orar para buscar la cada hombre esté listo para ingresar voluntad de Nuestro Santísimo Señor. al seminario, cuente con una red de “Tomé mucho tiempo visitando apoyo y amistades. Esto es muy útil diferentes iglesias, en su mayoría iglesias en una diócesis que cubre 23,950 de esta diócesis, y oré mucho. Pedí que el millas cuadradas. Señor me diera la sabiduría, paciencia, Se han designado actualmente comprensión y fortaleza para hacer lo cinco sacerdotes para realizar esa que Él me pedía por el bien del pueblo de tarea, incluido el Padre Wallis, Dios aquí”. quien ayuda a supervisar y guiar Han pasado cinco años muy rápido, la formación de los seminaristas, tiempo durante el cual el Obispo Olson al mismo tiempo que sirve como el ha visitado a cada parroquia y escuela (a Decano de Estudiantes de St. Joseph menudo, más de una vez). Se ha reunido Seminary College en Covington, con los líderes, comités y expertos, dando Louisiana. prioridad a estar cerca de su rebaño. El enfoque ha puesto mayor Como pastor y siguiendo la exhortación énfasis en la formación, la oración del Papa Francisco, ha querido “vivir con y la enseñanza catequética de los el olor de sus ovejas”. hombres que disciernen su vocación. Sin duda, éstos han sido años de Las recientes visitas de “Ven transición y renovación en la Diócesis. y ve” al Seminario de St. Joseph El Obispo ha encabezado y supervisado indican que el enfoque ha sido todo el ímpetu, el crecimiento y los cambios un éxito. necesarios para servir a una población “Hemos tenido constantemente El Obispo Michael Olson en la ordenación católica en constante crecimiento, y que un gran número de hombres sacerdotal del Padre John Martin y el Padre cada día es más diversa, en más de 28 participantes”, comentó el Padre Stephen Hauck en la Catedral de San Patricio. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)

52 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 52 52 NorthTexasCatholic.org capellán de Nolan Catholic High School, regularidad”, dijo Becht. el crecimiento, como las empresas de dará inicio en esta primavera a un retiro La Diócesis, bajo la dirección del Buxton Group y Meitler Consultants, de fin de semana en el Seminario de St. Obispo Olson, no ha vacilado en atender para que le asistan en el proceso de Joseph, que le dará a los chicos de escuela este crecimiento de manera rápida y determinar cuándo y dónde debería intermedia la oportunidad de ver la vida eficiente. establecerse una nueva parroquia. en el seminario. “Básicamente, el obispo Olson “Queremos asegurarnos de que El Padre Wallis explicó que él y expresó: “Vamos a hacerlo”. “Vamos a no se excluya a ningún grupo debido el Obispo Olson hacen hincapié a construir lo necesario y vamos a servir a la ubicación de una parroquia, los hombres que disciernen desde el a la población y a nuestra misión, que especialmente a los desfavorecidos principio del proceso que “una vocación es la salvación de las almas”, explicó económicamente”, dijo el Obispo Olson es realmente una llamada a servir. Es un Becht. Él reconoce que, para acomodar el en una entrevista con North Texas Catholic llamado a priorizar nuestras vidas por crecimiento y la población, “hay una gran en el 2014. Cristo, para servir a los demás y, por necesidad de seguir construyendo en la último, a nosotros mismos”. Diócesis”. LA CORRESPONSABILIDAD En los pasados cinco años se han Se pueden ver señales de este Durante los últimos años se ha visto ordenado 12 hombres como sacerdotes crecimiento por toda la Diócesis. En un aumento de un cinco por ciento en las diocesanos y se restableció el Programa Denton, la Parroquia de San Juan Pablo contribuciones financieras semanales, dijo de Formación del Diaconado II ha comenzado la construcción de Renée Underwood, Directora Asociada Permanente. Dos clases una iglesia de 300 asientos que prestará de la Fundación de Avance de la Diócesis. de futuros diáconos se servicios a una creciente población de Además, “apenas pasa una semana sin encuentran en formación, estudiantes católicos en la Universidad de que yo trabaje con una o más personas la primera clase se ordenará North Texas y Texas Woman’s University. nuevas que están haciendo provisiones en el 2020 y la segunda, en La Parroquia de San Marcos en el sur para una escuela parroquial o la Diócesis el 2022. Una vez ordenados, de Denton está casi terminando de pagar en sus planes de sucesión”. Los esfuerzos estos nuevos diáconos serán la construcción de su salón parroquial y de la Campaña Diocesana Anual un gran refuerzo para los comenzará la construcción de su iglesia continúan firmes, agregó. 85 diáconos permanentes formal. Underwood ha notado un aumento existentes en la Diócesis. Las parroquias de San Andrés en la generosidad de toda la Diócesis. en Fort Worth y de la Santa Cruz en Es imposible saber cuánto de eso se EL CRECIMIENTO Y The Colony se están expandiendo. La puede atribuir a las muchas innovaciones DESARROLLO Parroquia de San Felipe el Apóstol ha hechas por la Fundación de Avance. Sin Desde el 2014 hasta este adquirido propiedades para construir embargo, ella compara sus esfuerzos con año, la Diócesis ha visto un una iglesia que eventualmente tendrá las “piedras pequeñas” que se lanzan en auge en el número de las capacidad para 1,800 personas. La un cuerpo de agua “y crean un efecto de personas autoidentificadas Parroquia de Santo Tomás el Apóstol onda ... en fin, sólo Dios puede medir los como católicos, de 720,000 en el norte de Fort Worth terminó de efectos de onda inmensos que estamos a más de 1.1 millones. El construir su nueva iglesia en diciembre teniendo”. Director de Bienes Raíces y del 2016, con capacidad para más de Una de esas “pequeñas piedras” Construcción, Steve Becht, 1,000 personas. Una de las dos parroquias ha sido la creación de un programa señala como factores claves nuevas establecidas durante el episcopado de Corresponsabilidad, dirigido por de este crecimiento una del Obispo Olson, la Parroquia de San Diana Liska, que ayuda a las parroquias tendencia a la urbanización Martín de Porres de Prosper, tiene una a crear una cultura de discipulado, y a un mercado laboral nueva área de 18,000 pies cuadrados de agradecimiento y generosidad de talento, cambiante. El crecimiento ha espacio en la que los feligreses se reunirán tiempo y tesoro. sido especialmente intenso para celebrar la liturgia. La otra nueva Otro factor ha sido la renovación de en las regiones del norte y el parroquia, San Benito, celebra la forma Bishop’s Guild, que se convirtió en St. noreste de la Diócesis. extraordinaria de la Misa (en latín). John Paul II Shepherd’s Guild a partir de “Es una verdadera Ha habido rápido crecimiento, pero agosto del 2018. Los miembros del gremio oportunidad para un crecimiento con estrategia y propósito. evangelizarlos y hacer Con ese fin, la Diócesis ha consultado que vayan a la iglesia con con expertos para la planificación y Continúa en la Página 54

53 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 53 NOTICIAS Marzo / Abril 2019 53 De la Página 53

ayudan a cubrir los costos de educación de Todos los Santos ha ampliado su de enseñanza. en que incurren los seminaristas durante programa de lenguaje dual y más de la Asimismo, lo es un sus siete a nueve años de formación a mitad de los 141 estudiantes de la escuela nuevo programa un costo promedio anual de $52,000. están aprendiendo en inglés y español. En de catequesis El cambio de nombre también trajo el sur de Fort Worth, la escuela secundaria desarrollado consigo un mayor énfasis y prioridad a la católica Cassata atiende a una tasa mayor específicamente educación y la oración. de jóvenes desfavorecidos y hasta tiene para los maestros “El Obispo quiere que la gente actualmente una lista de espera. Hacia el por el Instituto St. entienda el camino de discernimiento que lado este de Fort Worth, Nolan Catholic Junipero Serra. estos hombres están atravesando y que los se encuentra en medio de una renovación Actualmente en acompañen en ese caminar con la oración de $40 millones que incluye seguridad su primer año, las y el conocimiento”, explicó Underwood. mejorada para el plantel, una nueva clases ofrecidas los Para mantenerse al día con las entrada frontal, dos áreas de aprendizaje fines de semana y tendencias digitales actuales, la Fundación al aire libre, mejoras al auditorio y una la certificación son también ha desarrollado Text to Give, nueva capilla con capacidad para 2,000 un requisito para ha aumentado su presencia a través de personas. La inscripción de estudiantes ha “todos, desde el las redes sociales y el correo electrónico, aumentado en muchas de las escuelas. conserje hasta el mientras que, por supuesto, sigue Desde que asumió su cargo como presidente de la escuela”, agregó Pelletier. proporcionando apoyo e interacción Superintendente de las Escuelas Católicas La cultura de las vocaciones también cara a cara. Es una incorporación de las de la Diócesis en abril del 2015, Jennifer se extiende a las escuelas, señaló Pelletier. mejores prácticas. Pelletier ha hecho de la identidad Los estudiantes de las escuelas católicas “El Obispo Olson ha sido un católica una alta prioridad en el ámbito diocesanas han disfrutado de las visitas y verdadero campeón de nuevas ideas”, académico. charlas de los seminaristas y del Obispo dijo Underwood. “Creo que se da cuenta “La enseñanza y las discusiones Olson. de que, si bien tenemos una fe común, dentro del aula están sucediendo con “El objetivo es integrar la conversación la tecnología nos permite servir mejor a ese entendimiento del catolicismo”, dijo sobre las vocaciones religiosas en nuestras la diversidad de personas en la Diócesis. Pelletier. “No se trata meramente de escuelas católicas”, dijo Pelletier. Él ha sido un verdadero campeón al hablar de historia, enseñar el inglés y respecto”. las matemáticas, y luego ir a la clase de EL PROGRAMA DE AMBIENTE teología. La religión está infundida en SEGURO LAS ESCUELAS CATÓLICAS toda la enseñanza y las cosas que se están Al momento que comenzó el Se han logrado numerosos triunfos en haciendo en las escuelas. Los maestros episcopado del Obispo Olson en la las escuelas católicas de la Diócesis en los están haciendo que esto suceda activa e Diócesis de Fort Worth, el Programa de pasados cinco años. intencionalmente”. Ambiente Seguro diocesano ya llevaba más Una de las principales prioridades Como parte del ímpetu del de 10 años. es que las escuelas sean accesibles Obispo Olson, que comprende que El Programa de Ambiente Seguro para todos, con respecto a los aspectos los educadores católicos enseñen a requiere que cada miembro del clero, financieros, sociales y académicos, y esto los estudiantes a apreciar los “bienes personal, miembros del coro, catequistas, ha impulsado muchos de los cambios, trascendentales de la verdad, la belleza maestros, seminaristas, ministros como la contratación de dos especialistas y la bondad”, Pelletier ha supervisado extraordinarios de la Santa Comunión, de aprendizaje a tiempo completo que el impulso hacia la educación católica lectores, cantores, ujieres, directores, brindan apoyo a los estudiantes de toda la clásica, un enfoque que enfatiza lo básico: maestros de escuela, entrenadores, padres Diócesis. leer, pensar y hablar — habilidades a las y voluntarios, así como el Obispo, sean La escuela preparatoria Cristo Rey que se le conoce como el Trivium Clásico capacitados para proteger a nuestros niños Fort Worth en Our Mother of Mercy que comprende la gramática, la lógica y la al aprender las señales para identificar el abrió sus puertas a su primera clase retórica. abuso sexual de menores. de noveno grado en agosto del 2018, Un elemento esencial de esta iniciativa En las auditorías anuales de nuestro brindando una educación de excelencia es el Instituto de Formación de Maestros Programa de Ambiente Seguro, la que prepara para la universidad a muchos Nuevos de dos semanas que familiariza a Conferencia Episcopal de Obispos jóvenes desfavorecidos del área. En el lado los maestros con la filosofía de la educación Católicos de los Estados Unidos ha norte de Fort Worth, la escuela católica clásica, sus marcas esenciales y los métodos señalado el excelente cumplimiento de la

54 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 54 54 NorthTexasCatholic.org El Obispo Michael Olson posa con un grupo de candidatos recién confirmados en la Parroquia de St. Andrew. (NTC/Jayme Donahue)

De La Torre comentó que el Obispo Olson también “hizo hincapié en la necesidad de llevar la comunión y armonía a todos”, por lo que la catequesis está disponible en inglés y español. Según el Director de Catequesis, el énfasis del Obispo Olson de fortalecer a la familia ha dado como resultado un enfoque de “modelo familiar” que se ha incorporado a la catequesis de los niños. Múltiples parroquias, grandes y pequeñas, han adoptado el modelo, que alienta la participación de los padres en la formación de la fe. Por lo general, los padres o tutores son invitados a la sala de clases de catequesis para ayudar a enseñar a sus hijos la lección de fe para ese mes. Los resultados han sido Diócesis. juvenil fue renovada “con un mayor énfasis muy positivos hasta ahora. De La Torre Sin embargo, al Obispo Olson le en la enseñanza, la evangelización y la predice que dentro de los próximos cinco preocupaba que la familiaridad generara catequesis”, dijo Marlon De La Torre, años la mayoría de las parroquias habrá complacencia, por lo que le encargó a la Director del Departamento de Catequesis integrado el modelo familiar. Oficina de Ambiente Seguro que mejorara y Evangelización de la Diócesis. En septiembre del año pasado, la el programa. En el 2017 se creó el Instituto St. Diócesis auspició el V Encuentro Nacional La Oficina de Ambiente Seguro Junipero Serra para atender el llamado de Ministerio Hispano/Latino, que reunió implementó en julio del 2018 Protecting de los muchos fieles de la Diócesis que a más de 3,000 católicos hispanos en God´s Children®, un programa de desean aprender más sobre su fe católica. Grapevine. Más de 50 delegados locales capacitación más sólido con tres horas de Con sus diversos programas de estudio y y 800 voluntarios laicos participaron capacitación en persona que se renueva temas de fe, el Instituto brinda a los adultos en el evento de cuatro días que atrajo a cada dos años. Las verificaciones de una comprensión integral de la doctrina participantes de 159 diócesis del país. antecedentes penales se hicieron aún católica y la historia de la Iglesia. De La Torre dijo además que la más intensas y abarcadoras, al revisar las El Instituto St. Francis de Sales sigue Diócesis está elaborando un renovado plan bases de datos nacionales que incluyen a siendo un recurso para capacitar a los pastoral para el ministerio hispano, ya que las personas que han sido removidas de catequistas para que sean testigos efectivos el actual tiene más de 20 años. organizaciones que prestan servicios a los del Evangelio, ya que los familiariza con Durante los cinco años que el Obispo jóvenes y a los que se les han suspendido o los conceptos catequéticos, el Catecismo Olson ha sido el pastor de la Diócesis de revocado licencias profesionales. de la Iglesia Católica, la planificación de las Fort Worth, el rebaño ha sido testigo de La Diócesis de Fort Worth ha lecciones de clase y otros recursos. un crecimiento multifacético. No obstante, capacitado a casi 175 facilitadores que “Las sesiones de formación para mientras que el Obispo ha manejado realizan sesiones de capacitación en todas los directores de educación religiosa y los muchos y variados asuntos de una las parroquias y escuelas de la Diócesis. directores de RICA han visto una mayor diócesis de casi el tamaño geográfico de Hasta la fecha, más de 34,000 adultos asistencia en todos los ámbitos”, agregó West Virginia, ha mantenido siempre están al día en su entrenamiento de De La Torre, y la asociación con la la importancia de la unidad en toda la Ambiente Seguro. Universidad Franciscana de Steubenville Diócesis. ha sido “una bendición”. A través de esta El Obispo Olson expresó que su LA CATEQUESIS Y EL MINISTERIO colaboración, la Diócesis recibe cursos esperanza para la Diócesis y, por lo que DE LAICOS adicionales en línea para los catequistas, ora constantemente, es que los católicos El ministerio laico y la catequesis brinda conferenciantes durante todo locales vean su identidad en Cristo “como siguen desarrollándose tras un período de el año y trae eventos como la próxima miembros de toda la Diócesis y no sólo transición. Conferencia de Encuentro Familiar y de su propia parroquia individual. . . Que En los primeros dos años del la Conferencia de Jóvenes Lone Star de seamos como Cristo desea — que seamos episcopado del Obispo Olson la pastoral Steubenville. uno. Ésa es mi esperanza”.

55 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 55 NOTICIAS Marzo / Abril 2019 55 Formando una Iglesia Santa

Por Violeta Rocha Guizar y Valencia, obispo mexicano que plenamente en El”. transmitió una fe viva, aún en tiempos Wiesinger dijo que como catequistas, i necesidad más de Los Cristeros; San Maximiliano hablar de “lo que Dios ha hecho por mí”, grande es el amor Kolbe, sacerdote polaco que se aferró a la es clave en el catecumenado y mostrar de Dios. Y quiero esperanza de Dios, bajo el régimen Nazi, como herramientas: la oración, los actos poder mostrar (a y Chiara Cabello Petrillo, sierva de Dios en comunidad y la misión. “El poder “Mlos catecúmenos) que crezcan en la fe, y italiana, que con profundo amor, se negó de la enseñanza trasforma, pero lo que que juntos sepamos que Dios lo es todo”, a abortar a su bebé, tras ser diagnosticada necesitan ver de nosotros es paz, alegría, dijo María Rojas, 48, el Día de Formación con cáncer, confiando en Dios para salvar caridad y esperanza”, y dejo un “reto muy de RICA el 26 de enero, en la Catedral la vida de su hijo, antes que la de ella. grande. Ser santos y encaminar santos”. de San Patricio, que la Diócesis de Fort Estos santos, “al practicar estas Para Jorge Mireles, 52, este día fue Worth imparte anualmente a catequistas virtudes, estaban llenos de alegría y paz, “una motivación” para preguntarse “¿voy de RICA y RICA Adaptado para Niños. en medio de las dificultades…por eso en el camino correcto?, ¿estoy enseñando Bajo el título de El Período del es que invitamos a la gente a conocer a lo que Dios tiene preparado para Catecumenado, más de 200 participantes, Dios, para que se llenen de su alegría”, nosotros?, y no hay que desfallecer, es un se nutrieron de valiosos expositores enfatizó Wiesinger, afirmando que RICA compromiso y una fidelidad para servir”, en inglés y español, que “inspiraron y no sólo es un medio para cumplir con los dijo quien es catequista de RICA y RICA llenaron de emoción”, señaló Rojas, sacramentos, es para “acercarlos a Dios” y Adaptado para Niños en la Parroquia de catequista de RICA en la Parroquia de “cultivar discípulos misioneros”. San Francisco de Asís de Grapevine. Santa Rita de Fort Worth. Wiesinger pidió compartir testimonios Irma Ramirez, 63, de la Parroquia Asistieron más de 100 catequistas de vida, y Juanita Elías, catequista de de San Pedro de Fort Worth, dijo sentirse bilingües que escucharon a Mary Ann RICA en la Iglesia San Esteban de más segura de que “mi testimonio puede Wiesinger, Directora de Evangelización y Weatherford, conmovió a los presentes, conectar realmente con las personas Vida Parroquial de la Diócesis de Miami, compartiendo cómo Dios detuvo la para que tengan un cambio…lo que como la oradora principal en español de amenaza de deportación de su hijo, quien vives dice más que lo que tú conoces este año. está bajo el programa DACA. “Dios se intelectualmente”, señaló ella que ha sido Wiesinger definió al catecumenado mostró cada día, cada momento, cada catequista de RICA por 10 años. (como se le llama al proceso de RICA, instante…comencé a hacer cosas que no Durante la Misa del medio día, en la Rito de Iniciación Católica para Adultos), hacía antes, especialmente esperar en Catedral de San Patricio, el Padre Sojan como un camino de fe, esperanza y amor. El…ir al Santísimo, rezar el Rosario todos George, rector de la Catedral, se dirigió Ella explicó estas tres virtudes a la los días. Todo lo que Dios nos dio en ese a los participantes del Día de Formación luz de las lecciones de vida de San Rafael proceso, para mí es un tesoro…confiar de RICA, se refirió al Evangelio deMarcos

56 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 56 56 NorthTexasCatholic.org Mary Ann Wiesinger, Directora de Evangelización y Vida Parroquial de la Diócesis de Miami, habla en el Día de Formación de RICA el 26 de enero, en la Catedral de San Patricio. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)

Un hombre escucha atentamente durante el Día de Formación RICA sostenido en la Catedral de San Patricio. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)

3, 20-21, diciendo que Jesús es juzgado de estar fuera de sí por no importarle las inconveniencias al recibir a quien llegaba a escucharlo, “ustedes que están atendiendo el taller RICA, saben que en el ministerio que están ofreciendo hay inconveniencias, pero si aman su ministerio, aman al Señor…no les importa la inconveniencia porque están en su misión”, dijo e invitó, en el día de su festividad, a pedir por la intercesión de San Tito y San Timoteo para como ellos, “mantenernos firmes en el Evangelio y proclamar la Buena Nueva del Señor a través de la forma que vivimos nuestras vidas”. Marlon De La Torre, Director de Evangelización y Catequesis de la Diócesis de Fort Worth, señala que trayendo expositores de otras diócesis del país muestra a los catequistas que “lo que Diácono Matias Lagunas conversa estamos ofreciendo aquí, es universal”, con su grupo. (NTC/Juan Guajardo) dijo al referirse a esta conferencia que se ofrece también en español desde el 2011. Más que una clase, RICA es una “una jornada de fe”, afirma De La Torre, “una oportunidad para ofrecer acompañamiento al muchacho, a la muchacha que está buscando su casa y esa casa es nuestro Dios…por eso todos (Catequistas y Catecúmenos) se sienten muy orgullosos de participar aquí, y siguen participando; ¡Gracias a Dios!” Agregó que en el futuro se requerirá de un sitio más grande, pues “el número de asistentes es cada vez mayor, llegan catequistas de Dallas y estamos recibiendo interés de otras diócesis de Austin, Tyler, Oklahoma City y Arkansas”, dijo.

57 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 57 NOTICIAS Marzo / Abril 2019 57 Un Paso ADELANTE

Otras diócesis de Texas se unen a Fort Worth en la divulgación de los nombres de clérigos acusados de abuso sexual de menores

Por Joan Kurkowski-Gillen tienen acusaciones creíbles contra ellos a identificar públicamente a los sacerdotes partir del 1950. Una “acusación creíble” acusados de abuso dentro de su jurisdicción iguiendo el ejemplo establecido es una acusación que una diócesis cree fue la Diócesis de Fort Worth, que tiene 17 por la Diócesis de Fort Worth que es cierta después de haber revisado clérigos con acusaciones creíbles de abuso en el 2005, las otras 14 diócesis información razonable y relevante al de un menor. Actualizada en el sitio web católicas de Texas y el Ordinariato respecto, y de haber consultado con las diocesano desde el 2007, la lista incluye PersonalS de la Cátedra de San Pedro dieron juntas diocesanas de revisión de conducta ocho sacerdotes diocesanos, un diácono a conocer los nombres del clero acusado laica y otros profesionales. En la Diócesis permanente, un hermano religioso y siete creíblemente de abusar sexualmente de un de Fort Worth, tal alegación requiere la sacerdotes de otras diócesis u órdenes menor. Esta acción es un esfuerzo conjunto remoción del acusado del ministerio. religiosas. Once de ellos ya han fallecido de los obispos de Texas para restaurar la En la publicación de todas las diócesis y varios han sido condenados a la cárcel. confianza pública. del estado se eliminaron los nombres Ninguno de ellos está en el ministerio activo. Compilada de forma independiente, duplicados que aparecen en varias listas La publicación de la lista es parte de pero publicada el mismo día, la lista diocesanas y los nombres de personas que los esfuerzos continuos de la Diócesis de general nombra a 278 clérigos individuales no pertenecen al clero. Fort Worth para garantizar la seguridad de todas las 15 diócesis de Texas que La primera diócesis de Texas en de los niños y adultos vulnerables y es

58 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 58 58 NorthTexasCatholic.org AMBIENTE SEGURO testimonio de su serio compromiso con perpetrados contra ellos por el clero en la la transparencia, la responsabilidad y la Diócesis u otros que trabajaban para la sanación de las víctimas. Iglesia. Para Reportar Conducta “Le doy mi apoyo a los otros obispos “Rezo para que se logre la sanación Inapropiada: de Texas por tomar medidas similares”, y la reconciliación para cada víctima de Si usted o alguien que usted conoce dijo el Obispo de Fort Worth Michael abuso sexual y que los perpetradores sean es víctima de abuso sexual por parte Olson en un comunicado. “Se toma llevados ante la justicia”, agregó. “Como de cualquiera que sirve a la iglesia, este paso para ayudar a las víctimas en su Obispo, haré todo lo posible para evitar puede: su proceso de sanación y en aras de la que alguien vuelva a sufrir tal indignidad”. transparencia y la responsabilidad”. El Cardenal Daniel DiNardo de Llamar a la Línea Directa de Calificando a la protección de los niños Galveston-Houston, Presidente de la Asistencia a Víctimas: (817) como una “obligación moral muy grave”, Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los 602-5119. el Obispo Olson prometió tomar medidas Estados Unidos, expresó su “más profundo enérgicas para garantizar que la seguridad pesar por el daño que se ha hecho”. Llamar el Director Diocesano de los niños siga siendo la primera prioridad “En múltiples incidentes a lo largo de de Ambiente Seguro: (817)- de la Diócesis. los años, la Iglesia y sus ministros fallaron 945-9334 y dejar un mensaje. Desde el 2002, la Diócesis de Fort en proteger a las almas más vulnerables Worth ha requerido que todo el clero, confiadas a nuestro cuidado”, dijo. “No hay Llamar al Canciller de la empleados de la Iglesia, ministros laicos, excusa para las acciones de los acusados Diócesis: (817)-945-9315. catequistas, maestros de escuela y todos los creíblemente de tales graves pecados contra voluntarios tomen un curso de capacitación la persona humana”. Para Reportar Abuso sobre el ambiente seguro. Bajo las nuevas El Arzobispo Gustavo García-Siller de o si Sospecha Abuso: pautas implementadas el año pasado, el San Antonio dijo que la publicación de los Si usted sospecha de abuso de un niño, curso debe repetirse cada dos años. La nombres de clérigos acusados de manera anciano, o adulto vulnerable, o si alguien información compartida durante la sesión creíble es “lo que hay que hacer” y un “paso le ha revelado algún tipo de abuso, alienta y refuerza una cultura de conciencia, adelante” para construir una comunidad y conocimiento y vigilancia para proteger a sociedad más sanas. Dijo que cada diócesis Llame al Departamento de todas las personas dentro de las parroquias, sigue comprometida a apoyar y trabajar con Servicios para la Familia y de las escuelas y la Diócesis. Hasta la fecha, los sobrevivientes y otras personas afectadas Protección (DFPS) de Texas al 34,000 adultos han recibido la capacitación por el abuso del clero, ofreciendo servicios (800) 252-5400. para identificar las señales de abuso sexual psicológicos y pastorales a través de un de menores y mala conducta. coordinador de asistencia a las víctimas. Reporte inmediatamente Como parte de la política de cero El Ordinariato Personal de la Cátedra el presunto abuso a su tolerancia de la Diócesis, cualquier informe de San Pedro, que se fundó en el 2012 y supervisor, sacerdote o de abuso real o sospechoso se reporta a la tiene su sede en Houston, no ha recibido director, y presente el Aviso policía para ser investigado. ninguna denuncia de abuso de un menor Confidencial de Preocupación Antes de servir en el ministerio u por parte del clero. En una declaración, con la información requerida otro servicio voluntario en la Diócesis, los el Ordinariato dijo que divulgará por DFPS. solicitantes deben pasar una verificación públicamente cualquier acusación creíble de antecedentes penales completa que que ocurriera en el futuro. Para Más Información: Para involucra una búsqueda en el Registro La Diócesis de Fort Worth invita a inscribirse o informarse sobre nuestros Nacional de Criminales y Delincuentes cualquier persona que tenga información programas de prevención de abuso, visite Sexuales. Es también obligatorio que cada sobre un abuso o que haya sido víctima fwdioc.org/safe-environment solicitante firme el Acuerdo del Código de de abuso por parte de algún sacerdote, Conducta. diácono, empleado o voluntario de la Iglesia “Es responsabilidad de la Iglesia a informar al Coordinador de Asistencia a Católica estar a la vanguardia de estos las Víctimas de la Diócesis o al Director de esfuerzos para erradicar el mal de la Ambiente Seguro. conducta sexual inapropiada con menores El Obispo Olson instó a los fieles a en nuestra sociedad mediante nuestras que “se unan a mí para orar por todos los palabras y acciones”, enfatizó el Obispo que son víctimas y sobrevivientes de abuso Olson. sexual, especialmente los perpetrados contra El Obispo ofreció sus sinceras disculpas menores. Trabajemos juntos en nuestra a cualquiera que haya sufrido abusos sociedad para erradicar este grave mal”.

59 NorthTexasCatholic.org May / June 2018 59 NOTICIAS Marzo / Abril 2019 59 60 NorthTexasCatholic.org Tiempo de Familia

l tiempo en familia es el mejor criar hijos santos y fieles a Dios. Quizás mundo cansado constantemente nos momento de la semana para no veremos los frutos durante nuestra presenta. nosotros. Tratamos de tenerlo vida. Y eso está bien. Aquí es donde tanto como podamos. Si aprendemos a confiar en Dios. Un día También nos damos cuenta de que Epudiéramos, lo tendríamos crecerán y es posible que no hay muchas familias que casi no disfrutan todos los días ... pero claro, quieran pasar tiempo con de tiempo en familia. Hay muchas ¡no todo el día! Necesitamos nosotros. Nos damos cuenta de razones y factores que contribuyen a esto. nuestro espacio también. eso. Pero no vamos a dejar que Muchos niños crecen sin papá o mamá Necesitamos nuestro “tiempo eso nos impida vivir nuestro o sin ninguno de ellos. Muchos padres de marido y mujer” a solas presente. que no pueden encontrar el tiempo ... sin hijos. Esto es muy Los frutos que hemos visto para sus hijos. Muchos matrimonios y importante para nosotros al tener “tiempo de familia” familias sufren de adicción, infidelidad, también. Sin este tiempo saludable y frecuente son codicia, cargas financieras, persecución, Joel de Loera de intimidad ya habríamos numerosos. El tiempo de unión pobreza extrema, hambre, pérdida de perdido la cabeza ... por con nuestros hijos: un ser querido, violencia doméstica o completo. sexual, etc. Esto nos pone tristes. Tenemos Disfrutamos realmente de pasar reafirma su identidad como miembros conversaciones con nuestros hijos tiempo con nuestros hijos: jugando únicos e insustituibles de nuestra sobre otras familias que están teniendo con ellos, leyéndoles, sosteniéndolos en familia y la familia de Dios, dificultades para disfrutar de la vida. nuestros brazos mientras les decimos Nuestros hijos oran por ellos y les sirve cuánto los amamos, rezando con ellos, nutre su confianza en nosotros, para que sean más agradecidos de lo etc. Nos gusta participar en sus “pequeños alentándolos a expresar sus que tienen. Si bien no podemos cambiar mundos”. No porque siempre nos sentimientos y opiniones libremente, a otras familias o cómo viven sus vidas, llevamos bien o porque nunca peleamos. sin el temor de ser castigados o ciertamente podemos tratar de hacer lo Tenemos nuestros momentos. ¡Créanme! rechazados, mejor para ser testigos de esperanza y un Los niños pelean entre ellos todo el faro de luz en medio de la oscuridad. tiempo. Se pasan de listos con nosotros. les ayuda a sentirse seguros y amados, Oramos para que la Sagrada Familia Nosotros les hacemos saber quiénes son bendiga y proteja a todas las familias del los que mandan. Constantemente nos les ayuda a desarrollar rasgos sociales mundo y para que un día toda la familia pedimos perdón unos a otros. Entonces y de comportamiento claves que los humana pueda ser una como la Familia volvemos a comenzar. acompañarán a lo largo de sus vidas, Divina, el Padre, el Hijo y el Espíritu No existe tal cosa como un Santo, que en la plenitud del amor “tiempo perfecto en familia”. Pero hay elimina la presión y el estrés permanecen unidas por la eternidad. innumerables recuerdos llenos de alegría innecesario, que, ojalá y tengan un impacto positivo “Respírese en el hogar doméstico aquella y duradero en ellos. Hacemos todo lo fortalece su voluntad y autocontrol, caridad que ardía en la familia de Nazaret; posible para inculcarles las virtudes de la ya que se les recuerda constantemente florezcan todas las virtudes cristianas; reine la fe, la esperanza y la caridad. Hacemos su dignidad como hijos de Dios y unión y resplandezcan los ejemplos de una vida todo lo posible para ser testigos de Cristo. las expectativas que tienen como tal honesta.” No siempre tenemos éxito. No estamos (también se les recuerda esta realidad — San Juan XXIII ni cerca de ser perfectos o santos. Pero con acciones concretas, no sólo con sí creemos que tenemos una tremenda palabras), responsabilidad dada por Dios hacia nuestros hijos. Es más que eso, es un los llena del valor y la fuerza que se Joel de Loera tiene una maestría en Teología llamado, una vocación. Nuestra vocación necesitan para enfrentar los diferentes Pastoral y es el Director de Formación de la es poner lo mejor de nosotros para poder obstáculos y problemas que nuestro Parroquia San Bartolomé de Fort Worth.

Marzoarch / Abrilpril 2019 61 BUSCANDO EL CAMINO DE DIOS

Quítate las sandalias…

e aproxima el tiempo de la profunda del ser humano, es decir Dios y comprometidos a hacer la voluntad de Cuaresma, tiempo maravilloso para mismo. Dios en sus vidas. escuchar la voz de Dios en nuestras Es necesario en ese encuentro, Este tiempo cuaresmal es un tiempo vidas,S especialmente es un tiempo de despojarse de sí mismo, dejarse guiar propicio para hablar de corazón a discernimiento de Su santa por Dios, ser moldeado por Él corazón con Dios, que siempre es nuevo, voluntad en nuestras vidas y y ser dócil a Su voluntad. Es que sigue llamando a hombres concretos para nuestras vidas. necesario para ello con humildad para Su hacerlos instrumentos de Su Este tiempo sagrado evoca y sencillez de corazón responder amor y Su gracia en favor de Su pueblo. entrar en el desierto, es decir, con generosidad a Su voluntad, El sacerdocio es un llamado bendecido permitirle a Dios que nos hable es decir, no tener miedo a que requiere oración y abandono en Él. y escucharle sin la distracción entregar su vida y abandonarse En esta tu Diócesis de Fort Worth, de otras voces, sino solamente totalmente en la voluntad de te invitamos a ti joven que, al igual escuchar la suya. Dios. que Moisés, entres en el desierto de tu Moisés en su huida al Fr. Manuel Holguin Es importante dejar las corazón, escuches Su voz, te abandones desierto se encuentra con aquel sandalias a un lado, reconocer en Su voluntad, descubras Su plan para ti momento fundamental de su vida donde que el llamado SACERDOCIO no es un y seas generoso en tu respuesta al llamado Dios le manifiesta su proyecto liberador. proyecto humano, sino divino, y está en que Él te hace. Dios que escucha el clamor de su pueblo, favor del pueblo de Dios. Este llamado Hijo, acércate a nosotros que llama a Moisés a colaborar con Él en su corresponde a Dios que es santo e invita queremos acompañarte en tu camino de proyecto de libertad hacia su pueblo. a los que Él quiere a colaborar con Él en discernimiento. Tu Obispo Michael Olson En aquel encuentro en el Horeb, este bendito plan de salvación. y los cuatro enlaces de vocaciones oramos Dios invita a Moisés a despojarse de si Hoy en nuestro tiempo, Dios escucha por ti y encomendamos tu vocación al mismo y ser guiado por Su gracia y a el clamor de Su pueblo que necesita corazón inmaculado de María Madre del ser instrumento de Su salvación para Su mensajeros de esperanza, emisarios que Sumo Sacerdote para que guíe siempre tu pueblo. “Quítate las sandalias que el suelo escuchen la voz de Dios, que se dejen caminar. que pisas es sagrado” (Ex 3:5). transformar por Él, que sean valientes y “Tú eres mi siervo, en quien me cubriré de Para poder ser instrumento de Dios, que confíen en Su palabra, que arriesguen gloria.” Is 49:3 el joven que discierne su vocación es sus vidas a servir a Dios y a la Iglesia. necesario que entre en diálogo íntimo con Joven te digo a ti, que sabes que Dios Dios en el desierto a través de la oración, te está llamando, entra en el desierto, darse tiempo para escuchar Su voz que escucha Su voz, déjate moldear por Él, nunca es confusa, que penetra el corazón deja tus sandalias, despójate de ti mismo y manifiesta su voluntad. Es ahí en ese y responde con generosidad. La Iglesia Ordenado al sacerdocio en 2012, el Padre Manuel espacio sagrado de intimidad con Aquel del tiempo presente necesita hombres de Holguín es el párroco de la Parroquia de San que llama, que seduce el corazón y que oración, enamorados de Dios, generosos Pedro Apóstol en Fort Worth y sirve de enlace inunda con su gracia la búsqueda más en su respuesta al servicio de Su pueblo con la oficina vocacional.

62 NorthTexasCatholic.org NUESTRO PASTOR HABLA Obispo Michael F. Olson, STD, MA

OBISPO MICHAEL OLSON es el cuarto Obispo de la Diócesis de Fort LA MUERTE DE LOS Worth. BEBÉS Y LA MUERTE @BpOlsonFW DE LA CONCIENCIA

l 22 de enero de 2019 el de Nueva York estuvo acompañada por privado. Gobernador de Nueva York, algo que no era tristeza por parte de los Está claro que el Gobernador Cuomo Andrew Cuomo, promulgó responsables de los que la aprobaron. no es la única persona, católica o no, en un estatuto que legaliza el Fue celebrado con júbilo rebosante por nuestra sociedad que reduce el juicio de abortoE durante todas las 40 semanas de los legisladores junto con el Gobernador la conciencia a ser un mero mediador de embarazo de una mujer, incluso hasta Cuomo como un triunfo de la autonomía la elección para cumplir con las normas el momento de un parto a término, caprichosa. El gobernador expresó de las convenciones sociales o con los basado en criterios amplios y vagos para rápidamente que “las decisiones que deseos de preferencia egoísta. determinar la salud de la mujer. decido tomar en mi vida privada, o al Sin embargo, lo ha hecho no de La aprobación de la ley de Nueva aconsejar a mis hijas, se basan en mis manera privada, sino de una manera muy York nos lleva aún más profundo a creencias morales y religiosas personales pública que no sólo afecta el bien común la oscuridad inevitable de lo que fue ... pero que el juramento del cargo de de la sociedad, sino que también alienta a profetizado por muchas personas en el gobernador es a la Constitución de los otros a actuar de una manera destructiva momento de la decisión de Roe v Wade: Estados Unidos y al Estado de Nueva de la vida humana y la felicidad. Esto que la legalización del aborto conduciría York — no a la Iglesia Católica. Mi reduce la verdad, verificable por hechos en última instancia al infanticidio. religión no puede exigir favoritismo empíricos como la fisiología de un bebé La llegada al triste cumplimiento mientras ejecuto mis deberes públicos”. antes de nacer, a un conjunto de valores de esta profecía se manifiesta por el El Gobernador Cuomo no ha articulado privados impuestos en la vida pública derramamiento de los desgastados si estaba celebrando públicamente como por el poderoso dictado del legislador, a eufemismos del movimiento a favor del el jefe ejecutivo del estado de Nueva expensas de los miembros más débiles, aborto, que incluye que “el feto es una York, mientras se lamentaba en privado pero reales de nuestra comunidad. El masa de tejido”, “no es un ser humano, de acuerdo con sus propias creencias gobernador ofrece al discurso público es un ser humano potencial,” es una morales y religiosas personales que él una distinción sin una diferencia real y elección triste y trágica que enfrentan convenientemente dice ser católicas. excusas cuando se requieren razones. las mujeres, que requiere que al menos Las acciones y declaraciones del Como católicos y miembros de la se haga segura y rara”. La legislación gobernador carecen de coherencia en comunidad humana, nos hacemos daño si reciente deja en claro que los defensores su razonamiento y no simplemente nos conformamos con excusas. Tenemos del aborto a petición saben muy bien de insuficiencia en la fe católica. Si la responsabilidad de formar nuestras que es la vida de un bebé en juego que se algo es inherentemente malo, es malo consciencias bien, con razón y fe, para contrapone con la elección de una madre todo el tiempo y en cualquier lugar y conservar y proteger la dignidad de la para tomar esa vida con la colaboración circunstancia. No es simplemente una vida humana — en todas sus etapas — de los médicos. cuestión de punto de vista público o con consistencia en la esfera pública y En particular, la aprobación de la ley valores subjetivos que se mantienen en privada.

Marzoarch / Aprilbril 2019 63 The Official Publication of the Diocese of Fort Worth 800 West Loop 820 South Fort Worth, TX 76108

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