Parish Takes Their Faith Into Oviedo Children Teach Lessons About

WWW.THEFLORIDACATHOLIC.ORG | Dec. 4-17, 2015 | Volume 77, Number 3

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Father David Scotchie, pastor of Most Precious Blood, Students at hope rural gather in front of the school censes the Blessed Sacrament in preparation for the 3.6 with holiday wishes. (LinDa reeVeS | FC) mile procession with it through the streets of Oviedo to the parish. (Katherine Laguna | FC) Bishop Frank J. Dewane speaks during the annual Children teach Deacon Memorial Mass nov. 24. (BOB reDDY | FC) Parish takes lessons about Mass honors their faith Christmas deacons, into Oviedo The Florida Catholic visited Hope Rural School, spouses a private Catholic school in Indiantown, and re- Two thousand people packed the stands of ceived lessons of faith and love and charity in its Oviedo High School’s football stadium Nov. 15 to purest sense. The children — ages 4 to 11 — were Remembering those who have gone before, take their faith to the streets. The parishioners of asked to speak about the meaning of Christmas. Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrated the annual Most Precious Blood in Oveido participated in an They discussed desires placed on their hearts as Deacon Memorial Mass Nov. 24 at Our Lady of outdoor Mass at the stadium and as a display of far as giving during the holiday season. Perpetual Help Retreat Center in Venice. their public profession of faith. “Christmas is Jesus’ birthday,” said Micaela The Mass is celebrated in November to co- The high school holds a prominent part of the Mateo Pascual, who was the first student inter- incide with the month of All Souls. During the parish’s roots. The first Mass of Most Precious viewed. Micaela is among 20 students in Pre-K Mass a candle is lit in memory of the perma- Blood was celebrated in the high school audito- 4 at Hope Rural, a school with 135 children. A nent deacons and their spouses who have died rium April 25, 2005. “The stadium Mass and pro- majority of the children are of Mayan descent, through the years. A particular emphasis is on cession is a beautiful testament to God’s goodness children of Guatemalan immigrants or linked to honoring those who have died in the previous in our community,” said Siobhan O’Malley, event immigrants, who have settled in Indiantown a year as their names are read. More than 30 dea- coordinator. generation or so ago and made homes. cons and their spouses participated in the Mass. Click on the ORLANDO DIOCESE above for Click on the PALM BEACH DIOCESE for more Click on the VENICE DIOCESE above for more more on this story. on this story. on this story.

E-EDITION EXCLUSIVE Florida Catholic online Advent calendar is now live! Bishop disturbed by calls to State’s decision to abolish death penalty Click here end refugee resettlement marked at Rome’s Colosseum to enjoy www.thefloridacatholic.org | Dec. 4-17, 2015 FLORIDACatholic ORLANDO DIOCESE Volunteers share God’ mercy ELIZABETH WILSON Special to the Florida Catholic

BELLEVIEW | Mary Ann Gricar and Claire Dube began preparations at 6 a.m. Nov. 19, filling pots and plat- ters with enough turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean cas- serole, cranberry sauce and pie to feed close to 200 people. The honored guests of this home-cooked meal were people of the community who were hungry, homeless or alone. “No one is turned away,” said Dube, food services assistant at St. Theresa Parish in Belleview. “If you’re hungry you can come eat with us. We’re happy to help. We are here to do God’s work and we enjoy doing it.” Gricar serves as parish social services director, and with the help of Dube and 60 volunteers the parish operates a soup kitchen that serves a hot meal Monday through Friday year- round. But the Thanksgiving meal Helga Neubauer has been volunteering at soup kitchens for more than Maiha, age 4, enjoys a Thanksgiving dinner with her family is an extra-special occasion. When 20 years. (PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH WILSON |FC) at St. Theresa Parish in Belleview. the doors open at 11 a.m., Dube and a team of dedicated volunteers greet YEAR OF MERCY people as old friends, and offer big smiles and heaping platefuls of food. Families — including those with children as young as 9 days old — fill the small dining room or join others at picnic tables outside. For the people of St. Theresa, the soup kitchen offers the opportunity to perform corporal and spiritual works of mercy, giving food to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, and comforting the afflicted. The season of Advent, which began Nov. 29, is a special invi- tation to show mercy to people in need In his bull of indiction of the Extraordinary Jubilee of as the faithful prepare their hearts for Mercy, Pope Francis highlighted how Jesus introduced the the birth of Jesus at Christmas. Claire Dube, food services assistant at St. Theresa Parish, carries a tray of tea and following works of mercy as evidence of living life as one “Advent is a time of welcoming, of punch at the soup kitchen’s annual Thanksgiving dinner. of Christ’s disciples: preparing,” Bishop John Noonan said. “And who do we welcome and pre- Corporal works of mercy: pare for? Christ. Christ is the symbol ‘It is my burning desire that, during this jubilee, the Christian • To feed the hungry of mercy and love. What better way people may reflect on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. • To give drink to the thirsty to welcome his gift of mercy and love • To clothe the naked than by acts of mercy.” It will be a way to reawaken our conscience, too often grown dull • To welcome the stranger This Advent season has an even • To heal the sick greater emphasis on mercy as the in the face of poverty. And let us enter more deeply into the heart Church will begin the Jubilee Year of of the Gospel where the poor have a special experience of God’s • To visit the imprisoned Mercy Dec. 8. In his bull of indiction, • To bury the dead “Misericordiae Vultus,” Pope Fran- mercy.’ cis calls all Catholics to practice the Spiritual works of mercy: works of mercy more fervently. — Pope Francis • To counsel the doubtful “It is my burning desire that, dur- • To instruct the ignorant ing this jubilee, the Christian people For Helga Neubauer, who volunteers repay you” (Lk 14:13-14). “When you do • To admonish sinners, may reflect on the corporal and spiri- with her husband, Bill, it is the Gospel something for people who are in need • To comfort the afflicted tual works of mercy. It will be a way to that drives her, particularly a passage and you know how much they appreci- reawaken our conscience, too often from the Gospel of Luke which she has ate it, it’s food for the soul,” Neubauer • To forgive offences grown dull in the face of poverty. And taken as a personal motto: “When you said. “It helps my faith being here. I • To bear patiently those who do us ill let us enter more deeply into the heart hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crip- wanted to do something meaningful • To pray for the living and the dead of the Gospel where the poor have a pled, the lame, the blind; blessed indeed and this program gets you on fire; it special experience of God’s mercy.” will you be because of their inability to lights you all up.” n Dec. 4-17, 2015 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 2

Above, altar servers, priests and more than 1,000 parishioners participate in a 3.6 mile procession with the Blessed Sacrament through the streets of Oviedo to Most Precious Blood Parish. Right, Father David Scotchie, pastor of Most Precious Blood, censes the Blessed Sacrament in preparation for the procession. (Photos by Katherine Laguna | FC) Parish community takes their faith into Oviedo Katherine Laguna hymns such as the Latin chant The city of Oviedo was sup- of the Florida Catholic staff “Pange Lingua” filled the entire portive of the idea for a proces- field with praise for the Lord. sion and helped repair side- OVIEDO | Two thousand peo- After the Mass, about 1,000 walks and trim trees to make the ple packed the stands of Oviedo parishioners participated in a walk pleasant and safe. Organiz- High School’s football stadium Eucharistic procession, walking ers of the event also arranged for Nov. 15. However, these fans 3.6 miles from the high school to a shuttle to transport people to were all on the same team: The the parish grounds. Father Da- and from Oviedo High School to parishioners of Most Precious vid Scotchie, pastor of the par- pick up their vehicles, two water Blood in Oveido participated in ish, led the way with the Blessed stations, and choir music along an outdoor Mass at the stadium Sacrament in a monstrance un- the route. and were a sign of Christ’s love der a canopy. Parishioners fol- Father Scotchie said the pro- through their public profession lowed singing hymns and pray- cession from the stadium to the of faith. ing the rosary to give witness of parish campus served as a “wit- The high school holds a prom- the Catholic faith to drivers and ness to our community.” inent part of the parish’s roots. pedestrians along the route. “It brought our faith beyond The first Mass of Most Precious “This joyous celebration the parish walls into the streets Blood was celebrated in the commemorated where we of Oviedo. We prayed for our high school auditorium April 25, started and where we are now, neighbors,” he said. “The pro- 2005. giving God all the praise and cession reminded us that we are “The stadium Mass and pro- glory as we witnessed our faith a pilgrim people. Just as the Ark cession is a beautiful testament and blessings throughout the of the Covenant led the people to God’s goodness in our com- streets of Oviedo,” said Glenda through the desert to the Prom- munity,” said Siobhan O’Malley, Meekins, a parishioner of Most ised Land, the sacramental pres- Nearly 2,000 parishioners gather on the John Courier Field at Oviedo coordinator of the event. Precious Blood since its found- ence of the Body of Christ leads High School for a group photo. An 80-member choir singing ing 10 years ago. us.” n Church welcomes all to enter Holy Door staff report Francis invited dioceses around through the Holy Door, a door or ceived the Sacrament of Penance and crossing the threshold from the world to open a Holy Door of mercy, will experience the love of in a long time, are invited to come sin to grace, from slavery to free- Bishop John Noonan will open special significance on Dec. 13, the God who consoles, pardons and back and experience God’s mercy dom, and from darkness to light. the Holy Door on Dec. 13 during third Sunday of Advent. instills hope. in their life,” said Bishop Noonan. Often these rituals are associated the 6 p.m. Mass at the Basilica of Bishop Noonan has desig- “The gift of mercy is experi- A holy door has been used since with prayer, pilgrimage, sacrifice, the National Shrine of Mary, Queen nated the central bronze door enced in the most perfect way by the 15th century as a ritual ex- confession and indulgences. But of the Universe, 8300 Vineland Ave, at the Orlando shrine to be the reconnecting with Jesus Christ. pression of conversion. Pilgrims the door finds meaning only when Orlando. All are invited to par- diocesan Holy Door during the Those who are away from the and penitents pass through it as a the believer associates the door ticipate in this celebration. Pope Year of Mercy. Anyone who enters Church, those who haven’t re- gesture of leaving the past behind with Christ. Jesus is the Door. n 3 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015 Advent and the Year of Mercy My Sisters and Brothers in Christ: the Advent season easily falls into the realm of opportunities to be- nd this is my prayer: that your love may in- Two beautiful celebrations are come merciful like the Father, the converging upon us: the season of theme of the Jubilee of Mercy. crease ever more and more in knowledge Advent and the Jubilee of Mercy. Be- How might we do that? How and every kind of perception, to discern Florida ginning the Church’s liturgical year, would we open our hearts to the ‘A Advent (from “ad-venire” in Latin or hope of being loved forever despite what is of value, so that you may be pure and Catholic “to come to”) is the season encom- our sinfulness? How would you like DIOCESE OF ORLANDO passing the four Sundays to receive mercy? Might blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit Vol. 77, No. 3 (and weekdays) leading each one extend that par- of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ up to the celebration of ticular gift of mercy to an- 50 East Robinson St. Christmas. It is a time of other? Perhaps we might for the glory and praise of God’ — (Phil 1:9-11). P.O. Box 1800 preparation; a time for us be more congenial in our Orlando, FL 32802-1800 407-246-4800 Fax 407-246-4942 to make holy our daily liv- travelling and allow driv- ing through prayer, absti- ers to merge in front of our tion in the celebration of Mass each perience the love of God who con- PUBLISHER nence, and acts of mercy. cars or offer our seat for a Sunday and during the week. soles, pardons and instills hope. Bishop John Noonan Our preparation directs parent and child or elderly We might resist the temptation A holy door has been used since our hearts to Christ’s sec- Bishop person when using public to hurry Christmas into Advent, the 15th century as a ritual expres- DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS ond coming at the end of John transportation. as our secular world envelopes us sion of conversion. Pilgrims and Teresa Lantigua Peterson [email protected] time and also to the anni- Noonan We could add the cost of with visions of sugar plums, and penitents pass through it as a ges- versary of the Lord’s birth a cup of coffee at Dunkin’ take our time to truly celebrate the ture of leaving the past behind and WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER on Christmas. The final Donuts or Starbucks to season of Advent with family rituals crossing the threshold from sin to Katherine Laguna days of Advent, from Dec. 17 to Dec. our offering during the collection at such as the lighting of the Advent grace, from slavery to freedom, and [email protected] 24, focus particularly on our prepa- our parish. We might call a relative wreath. We could buy one less gift from darkness to light. Often these 407-246-4924 ration for the celebrations of the Na- or friend who has become distant for ourselves or family members so rituals are associated with prayer, To submit a request for news coverage tivity of our Lord (Christmas). from us to say hello. We might assist that a gift card would be donated to pilgrimage, sacrifice, confession in the Diocese of Orlando, email news@ Pope Francis declared a Jubilee with a homeless ministry emulat- Catholic Charities of Central Flori- and indulgences. But the door finds orlandodiocese.org. Year of Mercy beginning on Dec. ing the work of Sister Concepta who da through its Cards for Caring Ser- meaning only when the believer as- • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: 8, the solemnity of the Immaculate labors in the Lord’s name at a soup vice Project for families in need. We sociates the door with Christ. Jesus Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, Conception of the Blessed Virgin kitchen. We could forgive the one might present our faith like Chris is the Door! or customerservice@theflorida Mary. He said, “We need constantly person who has trespassed against Stefanik who speaks publicly about I pray our preparations through catholic.org to contemplate the mystery of mer- us and we are still talking about it so his faith journeys to help us to live these acts of mercy embody the cy. It is a wellspring of joy, serenity many days, weeks, years later. faithfully. Think about it. What do spirit of this holy season. May our Notify us of address changes (temporary and peace. Our salvation depends We may pray for our Syrian and you need to do to become merciful love increase ever more and more or permanent) as soon as possible. Please change your address online at www. on it. Mercy: The word reveals the African brothers and sisters and like the Father? in knowledge and every kind of per- thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at very mystery of the Most Holy Trini- others who are persecuted and liv- I invite you to the opening of ception, to discern what is of value 1-888-275-9953. ty. Mercy: the ultimate and supreme ing amidst the violence of war. We the Holy Door, the central bronze as we ready ourselves for the day of act by which God comes to meet us. may pray for the sick of our parish or door of the Basilica of the National Christ. n • ADVERTISING: Contact Jane Radetsky at Mercy: the fundamental law that participate in a ministry to visit the Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Uni- 407-373-0075 or dwells in the heart of every person sick. We might enliven our prayer verse, on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 6 p.m., Sincerely yours in Christ, [email protected] who looks sincerely into the eyes of life by praying the rosary or Liturgy 8300 Vineland Ave., Orlando. Our • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock at 1-888-275-9953, or his brothers and sisters on the path of the Hours. We might participate Holy Door is opened in unity with [email protected] of life. Mercy: the bridge that con- in the Sacrament of Penance at our Pope Francis who will open a Holy nects God and man, opening our parish or another to seek the Lord’s Door at the Basilica of St. John Lat- State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite hearts to the hope of being loved comfort. We may seek the source eran in Rome. The Holy Door will G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; forever despite our sinfulness.” and summit of our Catholic faith become a Door of Mercy through Most Reverend John Noonan Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; Our time of preparation during more fervently through participa- which anyone who enters will ex- Bishop of Orlando Toll-free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087

EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: General Manager: Ann Borowski Slade Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Letter on Catholic Charities refugee resettlement ministry Business Manager: Pat Spencer Gary Tester, executive director gee camp, are their only hope for curity clearances and are assigned gees from across the world — those Advertising Sales Manager: of Catholic Charities of Central safety. And for the most vulnerable, to local affiliates such as Catholic who leave their countries because Jane Radetsky Florida, wrote the following a relatively small number who have Charities of Central Florida for re- of persecution — begin a new life in Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro pastoral letter to explain the Social Media/Community Specialist: no chance of ever being able to go settlement. Central Florida. Michael Carlock mission of the organization’s home safely, starting life anew in a In the Gospel of Matthew, we The Gospel of Jesus Christ urges Advertising Graphic Designer: Refugee Resettlement ministry. strange land is the only possibility hear Jesus teach about the way we us to care for the needs of people Michael Jimenez The letter was written in response other than death. are to live. Jesus says: “Blessed are who are suffering and to pray for Advertising Assistant: Valerie Casko to the news reports and articles Before their arrival in the Unit- the merciful, for they will be shown the victims of violence and the per- concerning questions surrounding ed States, refugees from war-torn mercy” (Mt 5:7). petrators of violence. As St. Paul Have a comment/want more info/ the Syrian refugee crisis. The have a story suggestion? Leave your countries spend several years dis- At Catholic Charities, we are said, “The love of Christ impels us” feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; letter is also posted on Catholic placed or in a refugee camp. Dur- merciful to the refugees we serve. (2 Cor 5:14). click reader feedback button on left of Charities of Central Florida’s ing that time, refugees undergo Jesus Christ himself fled for his “May every Christian make screen. website, www.cflcc.org. Department of Homeland Secu- life from the terror of King Herod. these words his own, in the joyful rity background checks as well The refugees today flee to escape experience of being a missionary Send statewide news releases to [email protected] My sisters and brothers in Christ, as medical examinations, which persecution, war and execution. of love wherever Providence has Every day there are people living take years to complete. They are When we welcome a stranger, we placed him, with humility and Our staff meets for prayer each work day at in other countries, including Chris- also screened by United Nations are welcoming the Son of God into courage, serving his neighbor with 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ tians persecuted for their faith, who High Commissioner for Refugees, our lives (cf., Mt 25:35). no ulterior motives and drawing thefloridacatholic.org are being tortured and murdered, and then interviewed for refugee This is why Catholic Charities strength from prayer for a cheer- bombed and traumatized. An open eligibility by the U.S. Citizenship of Central Florida has a ministry of ful and industrious charity” (Pope All contents copyright © 2015, The Florida Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from field, a perilous journey, separation and Immigration Services. Ap- Refugee resettlement. Since 1975, Benedict XVI, Angelus, Oct. 1, Catholic News Service. from family, a rickety boat, a refu- proved families are provided se- we have helped newly arrived refu- 2006). n

Sean Gallagher diated around them. We even had Catholic News Service others want to come and be with us because of the joy that they showed INDIANAPOLIS | As 23,000 each other.” youths from across the country During the closing Mass, Cardi- worshipped together during the nal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga of closing Mass of the National Catho- Tegucigalpa, Honduras, who was lic Youth Conference in Indianapo- the principal celebrant, shared with lis, Leanna Long felt “amazingly his young listeners the mission they overwhelmed” to be in the midst were being given as they returned of so many people who shared her to their homes. faith. “This is not the end,” he said. She attended the conference “This is the beginning of another from her home in North Carolina, stage when you will go back to your where Catholics are a small minor- places in order to spread the king- ity of the overall population. dom of Jesus Christ.” The kingdom “We know the Church is large,” of Christ, he said, is “the salt of the said Leanna, a member of St. Thom- earth, the light of the world, the as More Parish in Chapel Hill, in the leaven of the dough, a sign of sal- Raleigh Diocese. “But to be able to vation in order to build a more just see it and know that I’m not alone world, more brotherly, one based on (is helpful). Gospel values, the hope and eternal “We’re told that where two or joy to which we are all called.” three are gathered, (Jesus) is in A group of teens from Nativity Parish in Longwood joined 23,000 youths from across the country at the National All of the conference events took your presence. Well, I’m one of one Catholic Youth Ministry Conference in Indianapolis Nov. 19-21. A contingency of 161 teens and 66 chaperones place in the Indiana Convention in my school. Is God with me still? from the Diocese of Orlando attended the conference and learned more about their faith through general Center in Indianapolis. The Arch- The answer is, ‘Yes.’ Even though sessions, workshops, service opportunities and participating in the Sacraments. (COURTESY) diocese of Indianapolis has hosted I’m in North Carolina and some- the last three conferences, which one else is in New Hampshire, ference Nov. 19-21. The conference the conference attempts to engage about my religion,” said Karsyn, are held every two years. It is sched- we’re still … praying together,” offers high school students and the head, heart and hands of all age 13. uled to host the next one in 2017. she told The Criterion, newspaper their adult chaperones multiple participants. “The students were all here to The conference is sponsored by of the Indianapolis Archdiocese. opportunities to interact and learn “We had fun activities and games experience growth in their faith,” the National Federation of Catholic “We’re still gathered together, and more about the Catholic faith. From and even did some workshops to said Nancy Webb, youth minister Youth Ministry. n he’s there.” general sessions to workshops to learn about the Lord in a more re- at St. James Cathedral in Orlando. The Diocese of Orlando had a occasions to be of service and par- latable, teenage way. I couldn’t stop “I was so relieved that there was Gallagher is a reporter at The Crite- contingency of 161 teens plus 66 ticipate in the Sacraments to the smiling and laughing and I began openness and community between rion, newspaper of the Archdiocese chaperones who attended the con- chance to dance or play basketball, to think in a totally different way all the teens. Their love of God ra- of Indianapolis. Pope Francis revises annulment process Catholics seek nullity faster by eliminating a man- er Church must do exactly the same people who feel disconnected from confident they are prepared for the datory review by a Second Instance to follow in the steps of the Blessed the Church. changes. healing and Court (Archdiocese of Miami). This Mother,” said Father Gil. “The drive to reform has been “It is our duty and our obligation will allow the First Instance Court Another change is the financial fueled by the enormous number of to serve the people of God and be- understanding (Diocese of Orlando’s Tribunal Of- burden many families face when faithful who, while wishing to be cause of that we are fully prepared fice) to become the final decision in seeking a declaration of nullity. at peace with their conscience, are to implement all the changes begin- through declaration the declaration of nullity process, Pope Francis requested that bish- too often separated from the legal ning Dec. 8,” said Father Gil. “It is reducing the time from three to five ops make the annulment process structures of the Churches due to wonderful because by obtaining a of nullity months from the original method. free as a way of demonstrating the physical or moral distance; char- declaration of nullity, the people are Katherine Laguna A briefer form of trying nullity cases gratuitous love of Christ by which ity and mercy therefore require that reconciling with the Church, they has also been designed to be applied we have all been saved. can go back to the Sacraments and of the Florida Catholic staff the same Church, as a mother, to be in situations where the nullity of the “To remove all obstacles to this closer to her children who consider receive Holy Communion. They no marriage is quite apparent and both healing ministry, I announced on themselves separated,” said Pope longer feel second-class members of ORLANDO | On Dec. 8, new pro- parties agree to present the case. July 1 that our diocese would no Francis. Although The Tribunal Of- the Church.” n cedures will go into effect regarding “The new law basically empow- longer charge any fee for process- fice of the Diocese of Orlando and an annulment, now known as a dec- ers the Tribunal of a diocese to have ing a petition for nullity of a mar- the Archdiocese of Chicago equally For more information, please laration of nullity. These changes declaration of nullity cases conclud- riage,” said Bishop John Noonan. “I have the largest number of declara- contact your parish priest or the are based on Pope Francis’ letter, ed without a mandatory review,” rejoice in these changes in the spirit tion of nullity requests besides the diocesan Tribunal Office at 407- “Motu Proprio Mitis Iudex Dominus said Father Fernando Gil, judicial of mercy, compassion and inclusion Archdiocese of Atlanta, Father Gil is 246-4851. Iesus,” Latin for, “Our Lord Jesus, vicar of the Diocese of Orlando. with which Pope Francis has made The Gentle Judge,” released Sept. 8. “However if a petitioner wishes to them. I encourage any person in our The timing of the changes coincides appeal, the individual may do so diocese who may have experienced 34752-1204 with the beginning of the Jubilee with the Metropolitan Tribunal of the pain of a divorce to speak with a Year of Mercy, proclaimed by Pope the Archdiocese of Miami or with priest about your situation.” Francis. the Supreme Tribunal of the Roman Bishop Noonan said these up- Catholic doctrine on marriage Rota.” dates will expedite the search for and indissolubility has not and will Father Gil said, with Pope Francis the truth about what happened in not change. Pope Francis’ reforms announcing the Year of Mercy, he is the course of a marriage. are procedural changes and not asking pastors to be more merciful The single most important prin- changes in Church teachings nor and welcoming. “To be more pasto- ciple guiding the Holy Father’s changes in substantive canon law ral does not mean we have to ignore action and the work of reform un- or jurisprudence for marriage cases. the law of the Church, but the same dertaken is that of the salvation of The revisions will make the pro- way the Blessed Mother is merciful souls, which is the supreme law of cess of requesting a declaration of and tender with her children, Moth- the Church. This will also reunite 5 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015 Championship season honors memory of teammate Katherine Laguna of the Florida Catholic staff

LAKELAND | For all the players, coaches, staff members and parents who are a part of Santa Fe Catholic High School’s football team, the sport is more than a game; it’s a family. The team has come a long way. It suffered through injuries, challenging games and the loss of former offensive lineman Gil Kromer, who passed away in 2014. This season however, the team formed a stronger bond through all the adversities they faced. And it ultimately earned the Sunshine Santa Fe Catholic High School’s football team celebrates a victory Santa Fe football players take a knee to pray for an injured player State Athletic Conference Cham- Nov. 14 after beating St. Stephen Episcopal School from Bradenton on the field during the championship game at The Master’s Academy pionship title with an undefeated 33-0 and ultimately earning the Sunshine State Athletic Conference Pennington Field in Oviedo. (PhotoS by Layne Hampton | season of 11-0. Santa Fe defeated Championship title in an undefeated season of 11-0. Hawkdancer Photography) St. Stephen Episcopal School, Bra- denton, 33-0 during the champi- nard King. come to terms with that.” now with a championship, there’s through adversities. To put it back onship game Nov. 14 in Oviedo. Walker, the team captain, led The team captain credits Dick- nothing like that feeling.” together, and for the first time to “I have coached six seasons of the team this season with 1,200 erson, the other players, and espe- With hard work and determina- win a state title is an honor.” football and by far this is the best total yards and 18 passing touch- cially teammate John Kromer for tion the team set the bar high for Dickerson said praying before season,” said head coach Billy downs. He said he found his faith helping him along his road to re- the school. Principal Matt Franzi- and after the game is what kept Dickerson. “As we started rolling in God after suffering a torn ACL, covery. John, who is Gil Kromer’s no said this is the first time Santa the team united throughout the into the season, the boys narrowed which removed him from playing younger brother, is a senior this Fe Catholic High School brings the season. Even through the team’s their focus and like any other sea- the game last season. year. championship title home in its 54- hardships, uniting under faith and son, they worked extremely hard.” “My faith before my injury “When things were hard this year history. God made this season truly unfor- Dickerson said the team is wasn’t with God, or in understand- year, John really understood “It is truly an outstanding ac- gettable. mostly comprised of seniors and ing what he had planned for me,” what is was like and what he went complishment for our school and “We all had Gil in the forefront he described the “Fab Five” as Walker said. “But I learned God through last year when his broth- community,” Franzino said. “I am of our minds, so we prayed at quarterback Walker Richards, doesn’t make mistakes. He is do- er passed away, what the whole proud of our boys. It is a special the start and end of every game,” running back Demario Vanover, ing the best for me by readjusting team went through last year, we year for us. We went through many Dickerson said. “It brought up the and three wide receivers — Henry my priorities and my past injury all worked together in unison this injuries last year, the passing of team’s spirits throughout the sea- Perry IV, Tyree Rodman and Ke- has helped me understand and season,” Walker said. “To see us Gil. We had a tough year facing son.” n Author helps Catholics reboot their faith Katherine Laguna Chris Stefanick of the Florida Catholic staff is a Catholic author and highly effective | Not one seat CELEBRATION speaker who remained empty at Corpus Christi reaches tens Parish in Celebration Nov. 12, when of thousands some 700 people from all ages gath- of teens at ered to reboot their faith with Chris assemblies and Stefanick. youth rallies The internationally acclaimed every year. (Jim author and speaker devotes his life Siegel | FC). to inspiring people to live a bold, contagious faith. His message: how the world has forgotten the truth, beauty and power of the Gospel. While at Corpus Christi Parish in Celebration, Catholic author Chris He delivers that message through Stefanick discusses the importance of our existence saying, “The story the person God created me to be in nesses to Jesus who rose from the live seminars, videos on his Real of salvation is a true love story for us. God creates space and time everything that I do.” dead for all of us. Life Catholic website, and on radio so he can put you specifically in it because he loves you intimately.” In Stefanick’s best-selling book- “St. Peter and St. Bartholomew spots. Stefanick hopes Catholics re- (Katherine Laguna | FC) let “Absolute Relativism: The New didn’t deny their faith because all capture the wonder of the universe Dictatorship and What to do About of this Catholic stuff is real. There is and its creator. thing around you? This universe is Stefanick said he hopes to change It,” he confronts tough questions a God and that God entered space “No matter how amazing some- not an accident.’” the tide of those who might be leav- about relativism, where humanity and time to become one of us,” said thing is in life, as time goes by, Stefanick is founder of Real Life ing the faith, including youths. is seduced into a false sense of free- Stefanick, a father of six. “One of the as we get used to it, we take it for Catholic, a Denver-based nonprofit His educational initiative includes dom instead of seeking the truth. greatest gifts of being a dad is you granted. We lose our wonder for which operates as the headquar- a Confirmation program called “We are too comfortable and too get to see your children discover even the simple things,” Stefanick ters for his various initiatives. He Chosen, which is used by almost used to the teachings of Christian- all the things about life for the first said. “We do this with Christianity has served at parishes in the East 100,000 teens per week in parishes ity, but are we a true eyewitness time. We must have more ‘whoa’ and the Almighty God. We should Los Angeles area and in Pennsylva- throughout the country. testimony of our faith in our daily moments in our lives like they do be amazed with the fact that there nia, and as the diocesan director of “Chris spoke about living a hap- lives?” Stefanick asked. “Are we because God created space and is a God.” youth ministry for La Crosse, Wis. py, confident life by expressing my willing to die for what we believe time so he can put you specifically While some believers might ask, He is currently the director of youth, faith through prayer, community in?” in it. Now, I think that’s a ‘whoa’ “God if you are really there, why young adult and campus ministry and mission,” said Lucas, one of Stefanick shared how St. Peter moment.” n don’t you reveal yourself to us?” Ste- for the Archdiocese of Denver and dozens of youths gathered during was crucified and St. Bartholomew fanick said, “God is looking down at is a graduate of the Franciscan Uni- Stefanick’s seminar. “It is important was skinned alive all in the name Stefanick’s website is available at us saying, ‘Did you not notice every- versity of Steubenville, Ohio. to not focus on the past and become of their faith. They became eyewit- www.RealLifeCatholic.com. Dec. 4-17, 2015 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 6 New bridge is the road to a better future Katherine Laguna of the Florida Catholic staff

ORLANDO | For decades, the villagers of La Cueva and La Cu- carita in the Dominican Republic have had to endanger their lives to cross a mountainous region dividing the two communities. Things are about to change for these hardworking men, women and children who are seeking to better their lives and to be more connected to the rest of the world. Thanks to missionaries from the Diocese of Orlando and more than 200 volunteers from the Domini- can Republic, a new bridge link- Above, more than 50 people participate in passing buckets of cement ing the two villages has been built from one side of the bridge to the other in order to complete its to provide a safe route for passage. foundation. Right, Denise Lara Cespedes and other volunteers from The bridge construction project villages nearby continue to work on the final stages of the bridge was first envisioned in 2013 when before it is officially open to villagers in La Cueva and La Cucarita. Father Eamon Tobin of Ascension (Courtesy PhotoS) Parish in Melbourne visited the Dominican Republic and saw the access to development and basic “Celebrations like these reveal how dire conditions firsthand. human services such as easier ac- the mystery of faith, Jesus’ passion, For years, people have been us- cess to imported food supplies.” death and resurrection weaves its ing rocks and tree trunks to build a The bridge is named after Ascen- way through our lives.” n makeshift bridge to cross the creek sion Parish to honor their $33,000 below. It’s often difficult to con- donation, which made the bridge struct roads for the villages in the construction project possible. mountainous and remote region of “Everything is manual labor San Juan de la Maguana, Orlando’s here,” Father Ruse continued. sister diocese since 1983. There are “Without the hands of dozens of few resources, no access to ma- people passing cement buckets or chinery and skilled engineers, no taking a day to assist in inventory, funds and rainy weather condi- this wouldn’t have been possible.” tions. The bridge is also necessary to Since February, Father Fred spread the faith, evangelization Ruse, the diocese’s pastoral minis- and education. The bridge offers ter in the Dominican Republic, and the opportunity to provide more countless others have persevered sacramental ministries and faith through abysmal weather condi- formation opportunities to differ- tions and machinery malfunctions ent villages. For example, the vil- to build a durable bridge that will lage of Las Lomas is currently in now provide security and opportu- Sacrament celebration mode. nity for many families. “Six communities are celebrat- “When it is the rainy season here, ing first Holy Communions, three the creek dividing the villages fills communities have presented chil- up with water close to the dirt road, dren for Baptisms, various com- making it almost impossible for munities are seeking the oppor- the villagers to cross,” Father Ruse tunity to celebrate the Sacrament said. “The villagers need to have of Penance,” said Father Ruse.

Denise Lara Cespedes is a volunteer who works alongside Father Fred Ruse on the bridge called Puenté Ascensión in the Dominican Republic. 34835-1204 7 YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015

DIOCESAN EVENTS DIOCESAN EVENTS community service day “Nun Run”: Friday, Dec. WITH BISHOP NOONAN 11, 2 p.m.-Sunday, Dec. 13. All single, Catholic women Helper’s Mass and rosary pro- time for prayer and fellowship, 18-35 are invited to a tour of cession: Saturday, Dec. 5, 8-11 a.m., including Friday night bonfire. Cost: three religious communities St. Mary Magdalen Parish, Altamonte $35, includes lodging and meals. of women: Sisters of St. Springs. Join Bishop John Noonan for Father Jorge Torres, Office of Voca- Joseph, St. Augustine; Sisters of Notre Dame, Jacksonville; Mass to pray for the unborn, healing tions, [email protected]; Missionary Sisters of the Holy for mothers and fathers affected by DarceyDinh, ddinh@orlandodiocese. Family, Middleburg. Includes abortion and the conversion of staff org. prayer, meals and inspiration. and doctors. Participants will also Christian Unity celebration/ Registration fee: $25. Sister pray the rosary at a nearby abortion prayer service: Friday, Jan. 22, 7-9 Kathleen Power, 407-246-4928, clinic. Office of Advocacy and Justice, p.m., St. Jude Maronite Church, 5555 [email protected]. 407-658-1818, ext. 2086; advoca- Dr. Philips Blvd., Orlando. Prayer Prison Ministry training: [email protected]. Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, 9 service for persecuted Christians. a.m.-2 p.m., St. Joseph Parish, Opening of the Holy Door: Participating faith traditions include: 210 W. Lemon St., Lakeland. Dec. 13, 6 p.m., Basilica of the Maronite Rite, Ukranian Catholic Training sessions for new and National Shrine of Mary, Queen of Church, Byzantine Catholic Church, current ministers will include: the Universe, 8300 Vineland Ave., Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of ministering in a prison or jail, Orlando. Coincides with Pope Francis St. Peter. Held in observance of Week re-entry support for former opening the Holy Door at the Basilica of Prayer for Christian Unity Jan. 18- During Melbourne Central Catholic High School’s Community Service prisoners, ministering to of St. John Lateran in Rome. Bishop 25. Office of Advocacy and Justice, Day Nov. 18, sophomore Steed assists in the Pre-K3 classroom, helping families of the incarcerated John Noonan has designated the 407-658-1818 advocacyjustice@ 3-year-old Andrew assemble and paint a model airplane. Students and more. Christine Shields, and staff performed over 1,800 service hours in one day at various [email protected]. central bronze door at the basilica orlandodiocese.org. as the Holy Door in the diocese. All locations in Brevard County. (COURTESY) End-of-life presentation: Mass for World Day of Conse- Saturday, Jan. 16, 9 a.m.-noon. are welcome to attend. For more crated Life: Saturday, Jan. 30, 11 St. Anthony Parish, 820 Marcum information, www.orlandodiocese. a.m. Basilica of the National Shrine Road, Lakeland. Learn about org/yearofmercy. of Mary, Queen of the Universe, 8300 Empowerment Program in SUPPORT a Catholic declaration on life “Called by Name”: Friday, Dec. Vineland Ave., Orlando. Bishop John Winter Haven to answer and death, also known as an 18, 7 p.m.-Saturday Dec. 19, 9:30 Noonan invites all to show gratitude phones, greet guests, schedule MINISTRIES/ appointments, operate copy advance directive. Office of a.m., San Pedro Spiritual Develop- for the women and men who have Advocacy and Justice, 863-858- and fax machine. Monday- PEER GROUPS ment Center, 2400 Dike Road, Winter consecrated their lives to Jesus. 8047. Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Martha. Park. Discernment retreat for young Separated and divorced: March for Life in St. [email protected]; 863-288- Augustine: Saturday, Jan. adult men over 18. Inspiring talks, 7983, ext. 104. • Mondays, 7:30 p.m., Holy 16, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Buses • Tax preparers for Family Redeemer Parish, 1603 N. are available from various Empowerment Program in Thacker, Kissimmee. Sylvester, churches around the diocese. Lakeland and Winter Haven to 407-406-0707. prepare federal tax returns for Cost: $25, adults; $15, youths; gathering: Saturday, Dec. • Catholic Divorce Survival low-/moderate-income people free for children under 12. 19, 6 p.m., San Pedro Center, MASSES/PRAYER Guide, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 from January to April 15, Office of Advocacy and 2400 Dike Road, Winter Park. p.m., Cost: $30, scholarships SESSIONS 2016. Free 32-40 hour training Justice, 407-658-1818, ext. Dinner, entertainment and available; first Fridays, Mass provided in October, November 2086; advocacyjustice@ activities for all ages, and live and dinner, social; St. Margaret Helper’s Mass and rosary and December. Martha. orlandodiocese.org. Nativity. Benefits summer camp Mary Parish, 526 Park Ave. N., procession: Saturday, Jan. 2, [email protected]; 863-288- Greater Orlando eighth scholarship fund. Tickets: Adult Winter Park. Lori Reinneck, 2016, 8-11 a.m., Incarnation 7983, ext. 104. annual Human Trafficking $20. Children under 8 $10. 407- [email protected], 407- Parish, 1515 Edgewater Drive, • Refugee resettlement 645-0284. Awareness Day: Saturday, Jan. 671-6322. Orlando. Pray for the unborn, mentors in Orlando to “adopt- • Coffee and conversation, 23, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lake Eola healing for the mothers and a-family” to help introduce second Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Our Park, 512 E. Washington St., fathers and the conversion newly arrived refugees to Lady of Lourdes, 1014 N. Halifax Orlando. The diocesan Human of staff and doctors. Mass CONCERTS American culture and help Ave., Daytona Beach. Terre, Trafficking Task Force will followed by trip to an them learn and practice English. 386-238-3631. have a booth to help Catholics Christmas with the basilica abortion clinic to pray the become aware of this horrific choir, Friday, Dec. 4, 7:30 [email protected]; 407- Families with incarcerated rosary. Office of Advocacy 658-1818, ext. 1061. reality and to educate the p.m., Basilica of the National and Justice, 407-658-1818, loved ones: public on how to prevent it. Shrine of Mary, Queen of the ext. 2086; advocacyjustice@ • Furniture pickups and • Third Saturdays, 8:45 a.m., Deacon Fred Molina, DOHTTF@ Universe, 8300 Vineland Ave., orlandodiocese.org. apartment setups in Orlando: St. Mary Magdalen Parish, orlandodiocese.org. Orlando. The basilica choir and Volunteers help staff pick up Mother Teresa Room, 861 orchestra, directed by William furniture and set up apartments Maitland Ave., Altamonte Picher, will present songs of VOLUNTEERS for refugees before they arrive. Springs. 407-463-5780 or email COMMUNITY the season. Tickets: $20; group Must be 18 or older and able to [email protected]. rates available in advance, NEEDED lift furniture. Jennifer.Powers@ Bereavement support EVENTS student discount with valid cflcc.org; or 407-658-1818, ext. groups: student I.D. Arrive at 5:30 p.m. Catholic Charities of 1061. Senior Day: Thursday, Dec. • Blessed Trinity Parish, for open house at the gift Central Florida seeks • Volunteer medical 17, 9 a.m., San Pedro Center, Building L, 5 S.E. 17th St., shop and museum with free volunteers for the following professionals such as MDs, PAs, 2400 Dike Road, Winter Park. Ocala, multiple groups; and refreshments. 407-239-6600, programs: RNs, OBGYNs, EKG technicians, A reflection on the feast of first Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. www.maryqueenoftheuniverse. endocrinologists, orthopedic the Immaculate Conception • Semoran food pantry in Compassionate Friends, org/concerts. surgeons, certified health to launch the Year of Mercy Orlando volunteers help sort, Ocala chapter, for bereaved educators, general and nurse by presenter Father Anthony Christmas concert, Sunday, pack, stock and distribute food families who have experienced practitioners needed at each Aarons. Includes continental Dec. 13, 3 p.m., St. Ann Parish, to those in need. Must be 16 or the death of a child. Peggy clinic. [email protected], breakfast, lunch, Mass. Cost: 1265 Robinson Drive, Haines older. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- McClaskey, 352-694-2978. noon, and 1-3:30 p.m. Derrick. Lazarus Free Medical Clinic in $15. 407-671-6322. City, Celebrate the season with • First Thursdays, 6:30- music by the St. Ann choir. Cost: [email protected]; 407-658-1818, Wildwood; Erin.Burley@cflcc. Annual Advent/Christmas 8 p.m., St. Stephen Parish $3. 863-422-4370. ext. 2335. org, St. Luke’s Free Medical and Dental Clinic in Eustis; Kelly. Enrichment Center 1, Room • Emergency Family 103, 575 Tuskawilla Road, Services clerical/administrative [email protected], St. Thomas Free Medical Clinic in St. Cloud. Winter Springs. For anyone who volunteers in Orlando to assist has lost a loved one, spouse, with data entry, copying, filing Life Choices Women’s parent, child or sibling. 407- and organization. Monday- Center, a Catholic pro-life 699-5683. Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Julie. pregnancy resource center, 600 • Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m., [email protected]; 407-658-1818, E. Altamonte Drive, Altamonte St. Mary Magdalen Parish life ext. 1305. Springs, is in need of volunteer lay counselors (training center, Mother Teresa Room, • Refugee youth mentor 861 Maitland Ave., Altamonte in Orlando to help refugee provided), nurses to perform ultrasounds (training provided), Springs. Rosemary Kazyk, 407- children learn to speak English 831-1212. 34178-1204 and learn American culture. administrative assistance, • Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Our One-two hours weekly, flexible handymen, help with light Lady of Lourdes Parish, 201 schedule. Must be 21 or older. cleaning, and receptionists. Also University Blvd., Daytona Beach. [email protected] or accepting donations of baby Pat Beeman, 386-788-7128. 407-658-1818, ext. 1026. items, especially diapers and • Receptionist with Family wipes. Drop off during office hours. 321-422-4168. Dec. 4-17, 2015 www.thefloridacatholic.org YOUR ORLANDO COMMUNITY 8 Sister of St. Joseph becomes volleyball champ along with team

Katherine Laguna of the Florida Catholic staff

ORLANDO | The girls varsity volleyball team at Bishop Moore Catholic High School served up a winning season this year and a local religious sister provided a major assist. Sister of St. Joseph of St. Augus- tine Kathleen Power served as the team’s chaplain, providing spiritual guidance and so much more. A volleyball enthusiast, Sister Power coached a girls volleyball team at St. Mary Cathedral in Miami in the Sister of St. Joseph of St. Augustine Kathleen Power, center, prays early 1960s. This past season, she Sister Kathleen Power shows off her school spirit and victory medal with Bishop Moore’s girls varsity volleyball team before a home cheered the Bishop Moore girls on after Bishop Moore’s girls varsity volleyball team wins the state game. Sister Power serves as the team’s very first chaplain. (COURTESY during home games. championship. (KATHERINE LAGUNA | FC) PHOTO | DAVID JESTER PHOTOGRAPHY) “I am so pleased to be the team’s chaplain,” she said. “I wanted to get idea is new.” great opportunity and honor to Co-captain Lauren Rostkowski prayer, we thank God for our bless- to know the girls and I discovered it The varsity volleyball team is make our school proud.” said having Sister Power at the ings and for all the talent he has be- is a wonderful community of girls made up of 13 players, five coaches, The team has made faith a prior- games to pray before competition stowed upon us. We rely on it dur- and their parents that make up this and one manager. The Lady Hor- ity. Athletes participated in a team has helped the team tremendously ing the toughest parts of our season, particular team.” nets capped off an excellent year retreat before the start of the sea- throughout the season. They ap- especially after losses or when we The idea of a team chaplain is by defeating Jacksonville’s Bishop son, with the theme of team build- preciated her efforts so much that recognize areas in which we need new for the volleyball team. Sister Kenny High School Nov. 14 for the ing and keeping faith in God and when the athletes received their to grow.” Power, a Bishop Moore class of 1959 class 5A state championship. Its one another. medals after winning the state Sister Power credits head coach graduate, served as the team’s first season record was 28-4. “We all grew together spiritually championship, Sister Power was Tanya Jarvis for being a wonderful chaplain. “To represent Bishop Moore as and emotionally during the retreat,” brought to the court to receive a role model for the team. Jarvis is “Other teams are following suit state champions is an overwhelm- Katie said. “It was amazing to get to medal as well. thrilled for the team’s victory. but this was the first in recent histo- ingly great feeling,” said team co- know each other not only as play- “We are so happy Sister Kathleen “It is an amazing feeling to know ry,” said Amanda Livermore, direc- captain and senior Katie Kane. ers, but as Christians. I believe this became part of the Hornet family we as coaches had a part in their tor of mission effectiveness at the “One of our team mottos is that connection, trust and bond in faith this year,” Lauren said. “She leads volleyball journeys,” Jarvis said. school. “We always have great cler- when we play we are not only rep- helped us persevere through much our team in prayer by joining hands “Speaking from personal experi- gy support from our local priests at- resenting ourselves, but also our adversity, such as tough losses and even at the conclusion of every ence, this memory and experience tending games, but this chaplaincy team, families and school. It is a injuries.” match no matter the outcome. In will be cherished forever.” n Retirement Fund for Religious During her first year of teaching, Precious Blood Sister Ann Hipp, 95, had 40 students in four grades. “It was only by the grace of God that I got through that first year,” she recalls, laughing. Sister Ann would go on to spend 50 years in the classroom and continues in volunteer ministry today. She and some 33,000 senior Catholic sisters, brothers, and religious order priests benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious. Your generosity helps provide prescription medications, nursing care, and more.

Please give to those who have given a lifetime. www.retiredreligious.org

Over 93 percent of donations aid senior religious. Please give at your local parish December 5–6. Or mail your donation to: National Religious Retirement Office/FLA 3211 Fourth Street NE Washington DC 20017-1194 Make check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious.

Photos: (left) Sister Ann Hipp, CPPS, 95; (above from left) Brother Anselm Allen, OSB, 76; Sister Luanna Brucks, CPPS, 90; 34790-1204 Sister Rosemary Zaffuto, ASCJ, 87. ©2015 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photographer: Jim Judkis. www.thefloridacatholic.org | Dec. 4-17, 2015 FLORIDACatholic PALM BEACH DIOCESE Children teach lessons about Christmas LINDA REEVES of the Florida Catholic staff

INDIANTOWN | The Florida Catholic visited Hope Rural School, a private Catholic school in Indi- antown, and received lessons of faith and love and charity in its Third-grader Alicia purest sense. The children — ages Gomez-Mazariegos, 4 to 11 — were asked to speak about 8, sings in the choir the meaning of Christmas. They at Holy Cross. Her discussed desires placed on their favorite song is “I Have hearts as far as giving during the the Joy." When asked holiday season. about any person she “Christmas is Jesus’ birthday,” would like to give to said Micaela Mateo Pascual, who at this time of year, she was the first student interviewed. said she would give She wore a necklace with a big but- to the “really, really terfly, a symbol of joy, hope and poor. They can't have new beginnings, and dark-rimmed Christmas. They can't glasses and a ponytail. Micaela is decorate.” among 20 students in Pre-K 4 at Hope Rural, a school with 135 children. A majority of the children are of Mayan descent, children of Guatemalan immigrants or linked to immigrants, who have settled in Students at Hope Rural gather in front of the school with holiday wishes. (PHOTOS BY LINDA REEVES | FC) Indiantown a generation or so ago and made homes. mas Eve and Christmas Day. On It is really good. I swirl the chocolate in in the hands of a child who may have Micaela has a sister and two Christmas Eve, we go to church. We my ice cream.” never received a Christmas gift or joy brothers, and she has not have secret Santa,” said We asked him about his ideas for during Christmas, the greatest time asked for a Christmas David Mendoza, 11, about giving. “I would give to the children in of the year when the Lord comes and present, but she is hoping a tradition to simplify the orphanages,” he said. “Those chil- brings his message of hope and love. for a doll. When asked gift-giving but still have dren don’t have anything.” “I feel good about participating,” Second-grader what she would do with fun. Names are randomly In an effort to engage the students said William Gonzalez, 10. “I put a Daphne Alvarez, 8, a $100 bill, the answer drawn and participants of Hope Rural in a schoolwide Christ- stuffed tiger and a toy in my box. The said Christmas is a time was quite surprising. “I are assigned one person to mas project, school leaders held a boxes are going to kids in Guatemala. to “sing carols and would give it to Santa so give a gift. David, a soccer “Box of Joy” Christmas project in No- They are kids who don’t have clothes praise God.” She is he could give toys and player, hopes a box with a vember. This was Hope Rural’s second or anything. I like giving to people. I wishing for peace on other stuff to kids,” said ribbon for him might con- year to participate. The project is de- already have stuff.” earth and said that if the generous young girl Micaela Mateo tain a soccer ball. veloped by Cross Catholic Outreach, Dominican Sister Elizabeth Dunn, she had the means, she with the true spirit of giv- Pascual When asked his a nonprofit that serves the poor of the director of Hope Rural School, is would give to the poor ing in her heart, without thoughts about giving if he world. Catholic schools throughout happy with her students, many who in Guatemala and the hesitation or any doubt. had money and an oppor- the Diocese of Palm Beach participat- have known or seen poverty up close poor in Mexico. Everyone has their tunity to donate to anyone ed in the program this year. All Saints or heard stories about it from fam- own family traditions at of his choice, he said that School in Jupiter was a drop-off center ily members. Her students generously Christmastime passed he would give to “people for the boxes. created nearly 60 Boxes of Joy, filling down from generation who don’t have much. I As part of the project participants them with all sorts of little toys, trin- to generation. Some tra- would give to children in are invited to place simple items in kets and goodies. ditions have faded over the hospitals.” boxes including toys, soap, tooth- “The little you have, the more you time and been replaced Gaspar Solis-Ailon is paste, hairbrushes and pencils. The want to give to others is the message,” with newer versions or also an avid soccer player. “Boxes of Joy” are then given as gifts to Sister Dunn said of the school project. other customs. Hard- He comes from a big fam- poor children in Guatemala and Haiti. “They have joy in giving. Box of Joy is working families linked David Mendoza ily of nine children, and The Cross Catholic boxes may end up the perfect name for the project.” n mostly to Mexico and one of his brothers lives in Guatemala also bring Guatemala. He plays on a Children of traditions with them as team with other school- Indiantown's they settled in Indian- mates and his favorite soc- Hope Rural First-grader Victoria town to follow dreams cer team is Argentina. School display the Mendez, 7, enjoys and work in various jobs We asked him to share “Boxes of Joy” writing and wants to including landscaping, thoughts about Christmas. they collected be a doctor. She said construction, cleaning Since it is Jesus’ birthday, from the school she would like to “give community as part to poor people,” and and farming. The chil- he said his family “will dren interviewed had have a cake with a cross in of their Christmas participated in the project and their own family cel- Gaspar Solis- the middle. We write every- Box of Joy project in outreach to poor ebrations to talk about, Ailon one’s name on the cake.” conjunction with Cross children living Catholic Outreach. "I and most were simple Gaspar will spend Christ- and faith-, family- and Church- mas Day with his family, friends and in Guatemala put some shampoo, a and Haiti. toothbrush and some centered. cousins. “We will have a barbecue and crayons in my box.” “Our family celebrates Christ- cookies and ice cream with chocolate. Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 2 Project turns into labor of love, service, outreach LINDA REEVES of the Florida Catholic staff

BOYNTON BEACH | What started as a way to spend time during retirement has transformed into a way to serve the Church and reach out to children going through fights for their life. Meet Nicholas Torelli. His friends, family and associates call him Nick, and like St. Nick he loves children and enjoys making toys and other items for little ones, working side by side with Joan, his best friend, wife and sidekick of 34 years. Nick and Joan have just finished a Christmas project — a miniature Nicholas and Joan Torelli, working together as a team, built a The dollhouse built by Nicholdas and Joan Torelli is on display at St. dollhouse with all the furnishings dollhouse for a raffle at St. Mark Parish in Boynton Beach. (PHOTOS Mark Parish. The house, complete with furniture and garage, will and trim, which was presented to BY LINDA REEVES | FC) go to the winner of the parish raffle in December. St. Mark Parish in Boynton Beach, where they are members. The house will be raffled off Dec. 11 Next came a big dollhouse built is on display at St. Mark and raffle od used for early detection of pre- said that he wants to entertain and the proceeds will go to benefit for granddaughter Arianna, now tickets are available at events and cancer and cervical cancer. with the toy airplanes, and he parish needs. “It took us five or six 15 and living in South Korea with after Masses. Comrie said the chil- Comrie shared that the couple doesn’t want them to represent months,” Joan said. her father Andrew, serving in the dren of the parish “are fascinated” also donates items to children at war or anything less than upbeat Nick, a native of New York and U.S. Air Force, and mother, Giani- by the dollhouse with a garage. local hospitals including St. Mary for the children fighting their own retired banker and former Wall na. Nick and Joan have three chil- The wooden house measures 2.5- Medical Center in West Palm battles. Street stockbroker, had an idea. dren in all. by-2.5 feet and and the garage is Beach. That explains the display When asked about the next “We said, ‘Let’s see what we can do The big dollhouse for Arianna about 1.5-by-1.5 feet. The house of airplanes near Arianna’s doll- “labor of love,” Nick said, “We are for the Church.’” was built from scratch, and Nick and garage were assembled from house in their Boynton Beach working on airplanes. We want to Nick and Joan, in retirement designed it down to the flooring a kit. home. reach the sick kids. We are finished for nearly 20 years, built their first made from wooden stirring sticks “The house involved gluing and There are dozens of airplane with houses for awhile.” n dollhouse about 10 years ago just to the tiny tile floors. Joan made painting,” said Nick about the con- models that have been assembled for something to do. Joan also en- the decisions on the interior fur- struction work. “We stained it. The and patterned after the ones de- The raffle will take place during joys working on jigsaw puzzles. nishing and paint, and made the inside was painted.” signed by the Wright Brothers in St. Mark Parish’s annual Christ- “The first one was from a kit,” curtains. The large dollhouse is Joan did a great deal of inte- 1903 and used in the war 11 years mas party Dec. 11. Tickets are Nick said. It required careful as- in safekeeping at Nick and Joan’s rior work. “In my home, I always later. The aircraft played a major available after the 4 and 5:45 p.m. sembly of one tiny piece at a time, house while their granddaughter painted wall and made curtains,” role in warfare, but Nick and Joan’s Masses on Saturdays and after the precisely following detailed in- is overseas. said the hardworking homemaker, planes are painted in every bright 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Masses on Sun- structions. Even though it was giv- Veronica Comrie of St. Mark who also worked for a time with color of the rainbow to brighten days. Tickets are also available en away to a friend, it set the way Parish calls Nick and Joan’s doll- Dr. George Papanicolaou, famous the spirits of sick children, many through the parish office, 561-734- for more handmade projects. house “a labor of love.” The house for the Pap test, a screening meth- of whom are battling cancer. Nick 9330.

answered the call to consecrated pardon from God and remission of Newsbriefs life are aging but continue to min- sins. The Catholic Church has called ster and volunteer, while others are jubilee years every 25 or 50 years Collection benefits frail and need care. “Most worked since the year 1300. The last jubilee for years for small stipends, leav- year was held in 2000 during the pa- retired religious ing their religious communities pacy of Pope John Paul II. This year’s Parishes across the nation and without adequate savings to meet Jubilee of Mercy commemorates here in the Diocese of Palm Beach growing retirement and eldercare the 50th anniversary of the close are conducting the annual Retire- needs. I ask you to join with Pope of Vatican II. God’s mercy is at the ment Fund for Religious collection Francis in acknowledging the gift heart of the upcoming months. The during Masses Dec. 5 and 6. The of consecrated life. Please pray for theme of the year celebrated until collection is coordinated by the God’s blessing on all religious and Nov. 20, 2016, is “Merciful like the National Religious Retirement Of- give generously to the Retirement Father.” Throughout the year there fice and benefits more than 33,000 Fund for Religious.” will be observances at the diocesan senior religious sisters and broth- and parish levels. To learn more, ers, and order priests. The U.S. Year of Mercy visit www.diocesepb.org/jubilee bishops launched the collection ofmercy. in 1988 to address the significant begins lack of retirement funding among Doors at the Cathedral of St. Igna- School honors U.S. religious communities. Pro- tius Loyola will be opened by Bishop ceeds are distributed to eligible Gerald M. Barbarito Dec. 13 during veterans communities to help underwrite the 10:30 a.m. Mass in preparation St. Ann School in West Palm retirement and health care ex- of the Jubilee of Mercy declared by Beach organized a Veterans Day penses. In a Nov. 27 letter sent to Pope Francis. The Church tradition prayer service the day before the ac- parishes, Bishop Gerald M. Bar- kicks off local yearlong observances tual celebration Nov. 11 and invited barito encouraged support of the in conjunction with the worldwide local veterans to attend. The Nation- annual appeal reminding all of the Jubilee Year of Mercy starting Dec. al Junior Honor Society of the school Students at St. Ann School hold up posters with words of thanks worldwide Year of Consecrated Life 8, the solemnity of the Immaculate hosted the event, and the opening to local veterans during a Veterans Day prayer service Nov. 10. called by Pope Francis last Novem- Conception, with the Rite of Open- prayer was given by Deacon Jim My- (COURTESY PHOTO) ber to recognize the special witness ing the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Ba- ers of St. Rita Parish in Wellington, that consecrated women and men silica in Rome. A jubilee year is a who is a veteran of the armed forces. part of the event, the school band America” and students played taps offer the Church and world. He special year called by the Church Students presented the veterans played “The Star Spangled Banner,” to close the service. Veterans were explained that many of those who for faithful to receive blessings and with a prayer card and flag pin. As the school choir sang “God Bless served coffee and doughnuts. 3 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015 Patroness of the Americas is honored LINDA REEVES and ethnic food. Carnival proceeds PRAYER of the Florida Catholic staff go to benefit parish ministries and the building fund. Our Lady of Guadalupe prayer PALM BEACH GARDENS | A highlight of the weekend is a Dear Mother, we love you. We Catholic faithful all over the world 10:30 a.m. procession Sunday, Dec. thank you for your promise to will celebrate the feast of Our Lady 13. It will include floats and tradi- help us in our need. We trust in of Guadalupe, patroness of the tionally people dress in clothing of your love that dries our tears and Americas, Dec. 12. Many people their homeland and carry banners, comforts us. Teach us to find our will begin traditional rituals lead- flags and images of Mary. Hun- peace in your son, Jesus, and bless ing up to observances days before dreds of people make the pilgrim- us every day of our lives. in honor of the Virgin Mary, who age through the streets, ending up Help us to build a shrine in our Catholics believe made appear- downtown. The walk of faith pro- hearts. Make it as beautiful as the ances in Mexico over the course of vides witness of great respect for one built for you on the mount of four days in the 1500s resulting in Mary on her special feast day. Tepeyac. A shrine full of trust, hope the conversion of millions of souls. “During the weekend, many peo- and love of Jesus growing stronger “Our Lady of Guadalupe is part of ple will make promises of change,” each day. our DNA. (She) is the icon of the in- said Lasso about significant aspects Mary, you have chosen to remain digenous people,” said Juan Carlos of the celebration when people with us by giving us your most Lasso, Hispanic ministry coordi- commit to grow in faith through wonderful and holy self-image on nator at Holy Cross Parish in Indi- the help of Mary. “It is a beautiful Juan Diego’s cloak. May we feel antown, where faithful, especially celebration.” your loving presence as we look Mexican Catholics, will celebrate Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission upon your face. Like Juan, give us the feast day and the Lady, Queen of in Fellsmere is another faith com- the courage to bring your message Mexico, Dec. 11-13 with activities at munity that celebrates in a big way. of hope to everyone. Holy Cross and in the center of Indi- “We will have a pilgrimage,” said You are our mother and our inspira- antown. “She is very important. The Carolina Cardona, administration. Hear our prayers and answer people carry images of her. Pictures tive assistant at Our Lady of Gua- us. Amen. The miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe is displayed high and of Mary are displayed in houses dalupe, about a street procession in the center of the Basilica de Guadalupe in Mexico City. The basilica and on cars. Her image is on rosary planned with floats and people is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world. Catholics beads and in offices. She is part of walking through the streets in p.m. Mass is scheduled. believe that the image was imprinted by Mary on the cloak of Juan the people’s life, faith, values and prayer. “We want to keep the tradi- Father Don Finney, pastor of St. Diego Dec. 12, 1531. (PHOTOS BY LINDA REEVES | FC) culture.” tion alive.” Peter Parish, said he has traveled to Catholics believe Mary made ap- St. Peter Parish in Jupiter is also Mexico City where the image of Our Personal reflection upon visiting shrine pearances to Juan Diego, an indig- an example of a parish that goes Lady of Guadalupe is safeguarded. enous convert, in December 1531, all out to celebrate the feast. The To this day, scientists can’t explain This summer, I had my own first- and the attraction of her miracu- leaving her image on his cloak. To- faithful will gather Dec. 11 on the how the image was created on the hand encounter with Our Lady of lous image. Seeing the witness day, the Basilica de Guadalupe in grounds near a large shrine of Our cloak of Juan Diego, who was can- Guadalupe when I traveled to Mex- of great faith of the thousands of Mexico City hosts the image and is Lady of Guadalupe for prayer. At onized in 2002 by Pope John Paul II. ico to learn a little about the culture, people there at the basilica was one of the most visited pilgrimage sunrise the next morning, people It is not painted, dyed, sewn, print- history and Church there. The Ba- amazing. People from all walks of sites in the world. gather again to serenade the Blessed ed or sealed and it remains in per- silica de Guadalupe in Mexico City life and cultures stood before the Holy Cross is one of the diocese’s Mother on her feast day. At 5 p.m., fect condition. The people of Mex- was the highlight of the trip and the beautiful Our Lady of Guadalupe parishes that celebrates the feast people will gather at Pine Gardens ico are affectionate and attached to gorgeous image of Mary reveals el- framed in sparkling gold. They day in a big way, filling the church Park three miles from the parish, in Our Lady and their devotion to her ements of the faith through native prayed in silence. Some shed tears. with flowers and inviting people the 700 block of South Loxahatchee is strong. symbols, which made Mary’s mes- Others gazed at her in respect, love to visit and pray throughout the Drive, to participate in a procession “She is everywhere,” he said sage of Christianity easily under- and wonder. The time spent there weekend. A white tent is erected in through the streets. As part of the about Our Lady’s image appear- stood by the non-Christian Aztec was moving and the experience the center of town where Masses event, people will sing and pray the ing on just about anything and ev- people. The image has resulted in inspired me to continue to grow in are celebrated Friday and Satur- rosary, witnessing faith and honor erything no matter where you go the conversion of millions of people my own faith, asking Mother Mary day evening, and Sunday at noon. to Mary and perhaps convert souls in Mexico. “She is part of the fam- to the Catholic faith. for her help and guidance along the A carnival will begin Friday night along the route. The pilgrims pro- ily. They carry her everywhere with As I stood before the image, I way. with rides, games, entertainment ceed to St. Peter Church, where a 7 them.” n could feel Mary’s loving presence — Linda Reeves

An statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe graces the entrance of Holy Cross Church in Indiantown. Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 4 ‘Remembrance Tree Ceremony’ held on All Souls’ Day

LINDA REEVES of the Florida Catholic staff

BOYNTON BEACH | Members of the Council of Catholic Women and their guests remembered deceased loved ones in a special observance in November on the grounds of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary. “We are one of the few dioceses that organizes an event like this,” said Barbara Lutton, president of the diocesan Council of Catholic A capsule holds a scroll with Women. The council’s annual “Re- the names of deceased. The membrance Tree Ceremony” was capsule was buried Nov. 2 under held Nov. 2, All Souls’ Day, and was a large tree on the grounds of followed by Mass with main cel- St. Vincent de Paul Regional ebrant Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito. Seminary as part of the annual As part of the ceremony, coun- diocesan Council of Catholic cil women from the various par- Women “Remembrance Tree ishes collect names of deceased Ceremony.” so they might be remembered in a special way. For a small donation, The funds collected from the the names of the dead are written yearly project go to benefit semi- on a scroll. During ceremonies the narians who are studying for the scroll is placed in a capsule and priesthood for the Diocese of Palm then buried under the tall tree on Beach. “It is a wonderful event the seminary grounds located near bringing awareness to St. Vincent the chapel. de Paul Regional Seminary and to This year, the women prayed for the council’s fund for the seminar- Members of the Council of Catholic Women from parishes throughout the diocese gather on the grounds the 450 people listed on the scroll, ians,” Lutton said. “The total funds of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary to pray for deceased loved ones Nov. 2. (PHOTOS BY LINDA which is put in the ground near will be presented to the diocese in REEVES | FC) a small marker. The marker with April.” inscription reminds seminarians, The council’s special day at the the grounds. The women attended with lunch, and the women have know the seminarians since they clergy and visitors walking near the seminary is a time of prayer and Mass in the seminary’s chapel with a chance to meet the people of the serve the lunch and sit among the site to continue to pray for the de- fellowship, but the event also gives Bishop Barbarito and the seminar- seminary community. participants,” JoAnne D’Angelo ceased named on the scroll. participants an opportunity to tour ians and priests. The day concludes “It is a wonderful way to get to said. n Retirement Fund for Religious During her first year of teaching, Precious Blood Sister Ann Hipp, 95, had 40 students in four grades. “It was only by the grace of God that I got through that first year,” she recalls, laughing. Sister Ann would go on to spend 50 years in the classroom and continues in volunteer ministry today. She and some 33,000 senior Catholic sisters, brothers, and religious order priests benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious. Your generosity helps provide prescription medications, nursing care, and more.

Please give to those who have given a lifetime. www.retiredreligious.org

Over 93 percent of donations aid senior religious. To donate: Diocese of Palm Beach PO Box 109650 Palm Beach Gardens FL 33410-9650 Make check payable to Diocese of Palm Beach/RFR. Or give at your local parish December 5–6.

Photos: (left) Sister Ann Hipp, CPPS, 95; (above from left) Brother Anselm Allen, OSB, 76; Sister Luanna Brucks, CPPS, 90; 34789-1204 Sister Rosemary Zaffuto, ASCJ, 87. ©2015 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photographer: Jim Judkis. 5 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015 The Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, at the 10:30 a.m. Mass. BISHOP BARBARITO’S SCHEDULE has called for an Extraordinary Ju- While the door of St. Ignatius bilee of Mercy within the Church, will be officially designated the Dec. 4 — 8 a.m., Mass/breakfast, of Mercy, Cathedral of St. Ignatius which is to begin on Dec. 8, 2015, Door of Mercy for our diocese, I Catholic Realtors of Boca Raton, St. Loyola. the Solemnity of the Immaculate am also asking that every parish Jude Parish, Boca Raton; 6:30 p.m., Dec. 14 — 6 p.m., Reception, Conception of the Blessed Virgin designate a particular door which Reception/dinner, Lumen Christi Gala, Catholic Charities, Wally Findlay Gal- Florida Mary, and conclude on the Solem- is to be associated with the Jubi- The Breakers, Palm Beach. leries, Palm Beach. nity of Christ the King, lee of Mercy at the local Dec. 5 — 11 a.m., Mass/installa- Dec. 15 — 6 p.m., Mass at Palm Catholic Nov. 20, 2016. In the bull level. This door will be tion/lunch, Damas Catolicas en Beach County Jail, West Palm Beach. Accion, Cathedral of St. Ignatius DIOCESE OF PALM BEACH of indiction for the Holy a reminder of our spiri- Dec. 16 — 10 a.m., Day of reflec- Year, “Misericordiae Vul- tual union as the Church Loyola, Palm Beach Gardens. tion for priests, Our Lady of Florida Vol. 77, No. 3 tus,” the pope proclaims and a visible sign of the Dec. 6-8 — Meeting, Florida bish- Spiritual Center, North Palm Beach. that, “Jesus Christ is the Church’s universal com- ops and Florida Conference of Catholic Dec. 17 — 5:30 p.m., Taping of 9995 North Military Trail face of the Father’s mercy. munion. It will display a Bishops, Diocese of Venice. Christmas TV Mass, Cathedral of St. Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 These words might well large banner for the Ju- Dec. 9 — 2 p.m., Meeting, Finance Ignatius Loyola. 561-775-9500 • Fax 561-630-2698 sum up the mystery of the bilee of Mercy which will Council, Pastoral Center, Palm Beach Dec. 19 — 4 p.m., Mass, Sim- Christian faith. Mercy has FROM THE serve as a sign of our unity Gardens. bang Gabi, Filipino community, St. PUBLISHER BISHOP Dec. 10 — 4:30 p.m., Meeting/ Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito become living and vis- and our common journey John Fisher Parish, West Palm Beach. ible in Jesus of Nazareth, Gerald in experiencing the mercy dinner, Catholic Charities board, Dec. 20 — 10:45 a.m., Mass/re- DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS reaching its culmination of God in our own com- Pastoral Center. ception, Holy Cross Parish, Vero Beach. Dianne Laubert Barbarito in him.” munities and in sharing Dec. 12 — 11 a.m., Party with Dec. 24 — 4 p.m., Mass, Christ- [email protected] “Merciful Like the Fa- that mercy with each oth- Haitian children, Our Lady of Perpetual mas Vigil, St. Francis of Assisi Parish, ther” (cf., Lk 6:69) is the er. The designated door Help Mission, Delray Beach; 5 p.m., Rivera Beach DIOCESAN EDITOR Mass, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Linda Reeves “motto” chosen by Pope Francis will be blessed on the Third Sun- Fellsmere. Dec. 24-Jan. 1, 2016 — Pastoral [email protected] for the Jubilee of Mercy. He ex- day of Advent. Center closed in observance of Christ- 561-775-9528 presses that, “In mercy, we find Pope Francis has granted a ple- Dec. 13 — 10:30 a.m., Mass mas and the New Year. proof of how God loves us. He gives nary indulgence, under the usual and opening of Holy Door for Jubilee • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: his entire self, always, freely, ask- conditions, to the faithful who Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, ing nothing in return. He comes cross the Door of Mercy of every or customerservice@theflorida to our aid whenever we call upon cathedral throughout the world. catholic.org him.” The Jubilee of Mercy offers The Door of Mercy at St. Ignatius Mercy for the sacrament of recon- and most deeply experience the Notify us of address changes (temporary us in the Diocese of Palm Beach an Cathedral will offer this plenary ciliation as well as for adoration unconditional love of each other so or permanent) as soon as possible. Please opportunity to join with the Uni- indulgence. This door will be open of the Blessed Sacrament. God’s many times manifested in mercy. change your address online at www. versal Church in celebrating God’s Monday through Friday, from 9 mercy will be a continual empha- In this regard, I ask your fam- thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at mercy in our lives and in sharing a.m. to 4 p.m., throughout the Ju- sis in preaching and in parish pro- ily to consider a visit to the semi- 1-888-275-9953. that mercy with each other in a bilee of Mercy. I believe that Pope grams and events. Pope Francis nary of St. Vincent de Paul during concrete manner. It truly is meant Francis’ words on the indulgence has asked that the Friday and Sat- the Jubilee of Mercy. Special ar- • ADVERTISING: Contact Jane Radetsky at to be a special year of grace. are significant in understanding urday preceding the fourth week rangements can be made through 407-373-0075 or [email protected] One of the primary signs cho- God’s overwhelming mercy, “To of Lent, March 4-5, be celebrated contacting our vocation director, • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock sen by Pope Francis for the Jubilee gain an indulgence is to experi- as “24 Hours for the Lord.” On Father Brian Lehnert (561-775- at 1-888-275-9953, or of Mercy is the door of St. Peter’s ence the holiness of the Church, these two days, in addition to the 9555 or 561-775-9552), who will be [email protected] Basilica, which has been used in who bestows upon all the fruits of regular schedule of reconciliation, happy to facilitate such a visit. The other Jubilee Years. The pope will Christ’s redemption, so that God’s each parish will make the sacra- seminary will also have its doors State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite formally open this door on Dec. love and forgiveness may extend ment of reconciliation available at open to welcome visitors every G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; 8 through which the faithful of everywhere. Let us live this Jubi- set times. As is their usual practice, Wednesday at noon for the cel- Toll-free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 the world are invited to enter on lee intensely, begging the Father to the Passionist priests are happy to ebration of the Eucharist. I ask that pilgrimage during the year. On forgive our sins and to bathe us in make known that one of them will parishes not hesitate to call upon EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: that day, the door will become, in his merciful ‘indulgence.’” be available for confession dur- Franciscan Sister Joan Dawson, the General Manager: Ann Borowski Slade the words of the pope, “a Door of I am asking that another simple ing normal daytime hours during episcopal delegate for religious, to Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez Mercy through which anyone who designation of a door be made in the Jubilee of Mercy at Our Lady of make available the wonderful vid- Business Manager: Pat Spencer Advertising Sales Manager: enters will experience the love of every home of every individual and Florida Spiritual Center in North eo on religious life which was put Jane Radetsky God who consoles, pardons and family during this Jubilee of Mer- Palm Beach. together by our religious during Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro instills hope.” Pope Francis has cy. Your designation of this door In our Diocese of Palm Beach, I the current Year of Consecrated Social Media/Community Specialist: asked that on the Third Sunday of will be a reminder of the Jubilee of am asking that the Extraordinary Life. Michael Carlock Advent, Dec. 13, every bishop open Mercy and a simple prayer, such Jubilee of Mercy be associated in Families are encouraged to Advertising Graphic Designer: the door of his cathedral as a Door as the Holy Father’s printed below, a special way with the vocations make a pilgrimage together to St. Michael Jimenez Advertising Assistant: Valerie Casko of Mercy for the Jubilee of Mercy can be placed upon it and prayed of priesthood, religious life and Ignatius Cathedral as well as to which I will be privileged to do at as families gather at the door. This family. The priest is the minister get together to come to their own Have a comment/want more info/ the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola would be a simple reminder that of God’s mercy through the sacra- parish church for the sacrament of have a story suggestion? Leave your God dwells among us and his mer- ment of reconciliation in a unique reconciliation as well as eucharis- feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; cy never departs from us. It is es- manner as he stands in the per- tic adoration. In addition, all fami- click reader feedback button on left of PRAYER pecially fitting to share this mercy son of Christ forgiving sin. He is lies are encouraged to participate screen. with each other in our homes. May also the minister of God’s mercy in the “Family Fully Alive in Christ Pope Francis’ Prayer for this household door remind us in a unique manner when he cel- Rally,” sponsored by the Florida Send statewide news releases to the Year of Mercy [email protected] during the Jubilee of Mercy that we ebrates the Eucharist and stands Catholic Men for Jesus Christ on must open the most intimate door in the person of Christ, making Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016, at the Palm Our staff meets for prayer each work day at Lord Jesus Christ, of our hearts to the love and mercy present his sacrifice and the gift of Beach Convention Center in West 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ You have taught us to be merci- of God always present within us. his body and blood. Religious life is Palm Beach. All of these practices thefloridacatholic.org ful like the heavenly Father, During this Extraordinary Ju- the manner in which the mercy of can go a long way in being vehicles All contents copyright © 2015, The Florida and have told us that whoever bilee of Mercy, each parish will Christ becomes evident as women of grace for us during this special Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from sees you sees him. decide the best manner in which and men commit themselves to liv- year. Catholic News Service. Show us your face and we will to celebrate the year for their own ing in a manner that radically imi- In addition to our celebration be saved. circumstances. Particular times tates the life of the Lord himself. It will be set during the Jubilee of is in the family that we are at home Please see COLUMN, 6

The Florida Catholic (ISSN 0746-4584) publishes semi-monthly for the Dioceses of Or- per’s policy and standards in Catholic Press Association. The appearance of advertising in all media. Political advertising not accepted. Periodicals postage paid at Orlando, lando, Palm Beach and Venice for $24 per year in Florida, $30 per year in the U.S., and in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services and products. Com- FL 32862 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The $95 per year foreign, by The Florida Catholic Inc., 50 E. Robinson St., Suite G, Orlando, plaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or to your local Florida Catholic, P.O. Box 4993, Orlando, FL 32802-4993. Member, Catholic Press As- FL 32801-1619. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertisements contrary to pa- Better Business Bureau. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising sociation; subscriber to Catholic News Service (CNS). Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 6 Parish welcomes community to its music programs LINDA REEVES meaningful way to get into the spirit The Orchid of the Florida Catholic staff of Christmas. City Brass Band plays The parish recently featured a during a PALM BEACH GARDENS | St. patriotic concert in the parish hall. concert at Patrick Parish is well-known for More than 300 people attended the St. Patrick its wonderful music ministry, free event. Parish Nov. concerts and annual Christmas “I’ve been very blessed over the 8 under the program. years to have many world-class direction of Alan Bowman, St. Patrick’s di- artists contact me with their inter- David Gibble, rector of music, said the parish ests in participating in our series,” conductor. opens its doors and welcomes the Bowman said. “The youth choir is The concert public to free music events as a way growing and wonderful. They sing was part of to “give back to the parish commu- once a month at Mass and at first St. Patrick’s nity and also the greater commu- Communion and confirmation. free music nity (at large.)” The adult choir sings every week- series. The parish’s annual Christmas end and for special Masses. They (COVINGTON concert is scheduled Dec. 13, 7 p.m., are a very special, faithful group of CAMPBELL and the evening is titled “A (mostly) volunteers.” n | FC) Celtic Christmas.” The event will feature both adult and youth choirs, St. Patrick Parish is located at guest soloists, and Celtic harp, vio- 13591 Prosperity Farms Road, lin, cello and flute. All are invited Palm Beach Gardens. 561-626- to join with family and friends for a 8626. Immaculate Conception is Dec. 8 COLUMN From 5 God’s mercy. Her life is authentic only when she becomes a convinc- ing herald of mercy. She knows of the sacrament of reconciliation, that her primary task, especially in our adoration of the Eucharist and a moment full of great hopes and our personal prayers, let us con- signs of contradiction, is to intro- sider to do something for others duce everyone to the great mystery during the Extraordinary Jubilee of of God’s mercy by contemplating Mercy. From the practice of spiritu- the face of Christ. The Church is al works of mercy to the many out- called above all to be credible wit- reaches in corporal works of mercy, ness to mercy, professing it and liv- which emphasize our sacrifice for ing it as the core of the revelation others, God’s mercy can be experi- of Jesus Christ. From the heart of enced in a very personal way. the Trinity, from the depths of the I invite you to visit our diocesan mystery of God, the great river of website (www.diocesepb.org) as mercy wells up and overflows un- well as the Vatican website (www. ceasingly. It is a spring that will im.va) for more information, sug- never run dry, no matter how many gestions and assistance in this re- people draw from it. Every time gard. someone is in need, he or she could The following words of Pope approach it, because the mercy of Francis are inspiring ones to keep God never ends. The profundity of before us as we approach the Year the mystery surrounding it is as in- of Mercy: exhaustible as the richness which “I present, therefore, this Ex- springs up from it.” traordinary Jubilee Year dedicated As the Holy Father also com- to living out in our daily lives the mends us to Mary during the Ju- mercy which the Father constantly bilee of Mercy, may we in a special extends to all of us. In this Jubilee way look to our patroness, Our Year, let us allow God to surprise Lady Queen of the Apostles, as us. He never tires of casting open she invites us to experience the the doors of his heart and of repeat- mercy of her Son in our lives here ing that he loves us and wants to in southern Florida. share his love with us. The Church A Blessed Advent and Jubilee of feels the urgent need to proclaim Mercy to all! n

The great story about the angel appearing to Mary and announcing that she was full of grace and would be bearing the Son of God in represented in this dual window at St. Thomas More Church in Boynton Beach. (JIM DAVIS | FC)

Explaining holy days 34190-1204 Holy days of obligation are ception of the Blessed Virgin of existence, was in the state of days of the year when Catholics Mary, a holy day of obligation, sanctifying grace and free from must attend Mass in addition to is Dec. 8. On this day, Catholics the corrupt nature of original the normal Sunday Mass. The reflect on the Mother of Jesus sin. Please check with a parish to feast of the Immaculate Con- who, from the very first instant find schedules for Masses. 7 YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015

North Palm Beach. 561-626-1300 or Pro-life radio talk show: DIOCESAN EVENTS FYI TV MASS www.ourladyofflorida.org: Mondays, 2 p.m.; and Saturdays, 11 a.m., Catholic radio station Divorce survival ministry To find more information on events, Sunday televised Mass airs 9 a.m. • Centering prayer: WJPP FM (Prince of Peace 100.1 program: Parishes in the please visit www.diocesepb.org/ on CW34 WTVX. Produced by the Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m., main FM). “CrossRoads” is a one-hour Diocese of Palm Beach. 12-week events or www.catholiccharitiesdpb. diocesan Office of Communications. chapel. program featuring commentary, program features 30-minute org/events. Questions: www.diocesepb.org/tv- • Advent day of reflection: news, features and guests from DVD segments on challenges of a Dec. 19, 10 a.m. Led by Dominican Mass or 561-775-9529. To support the local area and from across the broken marriage. For the recently Sister Roberta Popara and Deacon the televised Mass or to request a nation. Hosted by Anne Lotierzo separated and divorced and those Beach Gardens. Dennis Demes, director of diocesan free Mass missal: 561-775-9529 or and Duane Berreth, directors of divorced for many years. Sponsored Catholic Charities: permanent deacon formation Office of Communications, 9995 N. the Pregnancy Care Center in Fort by Office of Marriage and Family For calendar of events visit www. program. Concludes with 4 p.m. Military Trail, P.O. Box 109650, Palm Pierce and Stuart. Listeners may Life. Registration suggested; space catholiccharitiesdpb.org/events. Mass. Cost: $30. Reservations tune in online at www.wjppfm. limited. 561-632-2689 or 561-818- Beach Gardens, FL 33410. required. • Rosary gathering: First com. 4728. For program information Saturdays, 9 a.m., near Presidential • New Year’s Eve reflection and Women of Grace ministry and locations, 561-775-9557. Women’s Center in West Palm celebration: Dec. 31, 6 p.m. Led Benefit dinner and concert: program is seeking volunteers 2015-2016 School of Christian Beach, 100 Northpoint Parkway, by retreat team with presentation Jan. 22, 2016, 6-9 p.m., Ascension to facilitate study programs for Formation classes: Classes and West Palm Beach. Led by Respect by Passionist Brother Ed Hall. Parish, 7250 N. Federal Highway, English-speakers and also for programs offered in English and Life Office. 561-360-3330. Registration followed by dinner. Boca Raton. St. Mark Parish choir Spanish-speakers. Training sessions Spanish. New classes begin the Presentation, sacrament of • National Migration Week will perform “Les Miserables.” Cost: are held at St. Joan of Arc Parish week of Jan. 11. To learn more reconciliation, Mass and midnight celebration Mass: Jan. 2, 2016, $40 per person. 561- 244-7627, 561- ministry buildings, 319 S.W. Third about locations and schedules, visit party. Cost: $80 per person for 4:30 p.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius 752-2988. Street, Boca Raton. Registration: www.diocesepb.org/schools-of- overnight accommodations; $60 Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Martha Nicolli, 561 212 8673 or christian-formation or call 561-775- St. Vincent Ferrer jubilee per person for evening only. Beach Gardens. Main celebrant: gala: Jan. 23, 2016, 6:30 p.m., [email protected]. 9544. Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito. Reservations required. Delray Beach Marriott, 101 Parish nurse meetings: Lumen Christi Gala: Dec. 4, Reception follows in the parish hall. • Day of reflection: Jan. 6, N. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. Open to all registered nurses 6:30 p.m., The Breakers, 1 S. County 561-360-3327, [email protected]. 2016, 10 a.m. “God’s Chosen Celebration of 60th anniversary of interested in health ministry. Road, Palm Beach. Reception, • Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala: Jan. Ones.” Presenter: Passionist St. Vincent Ferrer School and 75th Father Damian Towey. Cost: $30. For dates, time and locations, 6:30 p.m.; dinner, 7:30 p.m. Bishop 28, 2016, 6:30 p.m., The Breakers anniversary of the parish. 561-276- Gerald M. Barbarito’s annual Reservations required. call Catholic Charities, Interfaith Hotel, 1 S. County Road, Palm 6892. Health and Wellness, 561-345- dinner dance benefiting Catholic • Centering prayer silent Beach. Black-tie gala to benefit the 2000, ext. 256; or email wellness@ school scholarships. Theme: “Christ Academic evening: Jan. 25, weekend retreat: Jan. 8-10, 2016. programs and ministries of Catholic 2016, 7:30 p.m., St. Vincent de catholiccharitiesdpb.org. Our Light, Our Future.” Proceeds Charities that provide services to Cost: TBA. Registration: 407-869- Paul Regional Seminary, 10701 S. Charitable giving guidelines: go to tuition scholarships shared the poor and vulnerable. Tickets 0781 or [email protected]. Military Trail, Boynton Beach. Guest The bishops of Florida have equally among schools. Black tie. and sponsorship opportunities: speaker: Cardinal Sean O’Malley. • Day of reflection: Feb. 3, 2016, developed charitable giving Tickets: $400. Wendy Gross, 561- 561-775-9560, jhoffman@ Open to the public. 561-732-4424. 10 a.m. “Removing the plank from guidelines of appropriate and 775-9520, [email protected]; catholiccharitiesdpb.org. our eyes.” Presenter: Deacon Bob Pro-life ministry benefit: inappropriate organizations/ diocesepb.org/lumenchristi. Rodriguez. Cost: $30. Reservations Feb. 8, 2016, PGA Country Club foundations. Please visit www. Candle-lighting ceremony: required. Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m., Our Lady COMMUNITY and Resort, Palm Beach Gardens. diocesepb.org, click on giving and Queen of Peace Cemetery, 10941 Guest speaker: Jim Sedlak, founder then charitable giving guidelines. Southern Blvd., Royal Palm Beach. EVENTS of Stop Planned Parenthood ANNOUNCEMENTS Protection of Children In conjuction with worldwide event International (STOPP). Proceeds and Young People: The benefit God’s Resources, a pro-life to honor the memories of deceased Christmas extravaganza: Dec. Catholic Days at the Capitol: Catholic Diocese of Palm Beach ministry dedicated to providing children. All are asked to bring a 5, 5-9 p.m., Cardinal Newman High Feb. 16-18, 2016, Tallahassee. is committed to the safety and free pregnancy tests, counseling framed stand-alone picture of their School, 512 Spencer Drive, West Florida Catholics are invited to protection of all children and and ultrasounds by trained nurses child to place on display with other Palm Beach. Christmas shopping, meet state legislators to promote vulnerable adults in its care. children being honored. 561-793- raffles, auction, pictures with working from mobile facilities at Victims of abuse are encouraged various locations. 772-919-2555. legislation that supports teachings 0711 or [email protected]. Santa. Entertainment by Cardinal of the Church. Highlight: Red to contact the diocesan victim Taping of televised Christmas Newman students, faculty, band, Ladies Guild trip, March 8-10, Mass concelebrated by the Florida assistance coordinator Theresa Mass: Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m., Cathedral dance ensemble and chorus. 2016, Emmanuel Parish, 15700 bishops. Cost: $170 per person, Fretterd, 561-801-0999, to begin of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Show begins at 7 p.m. with S. Military Trail, Delray Beach. includes transportation and necessary emotional, psychological Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens. tumbling Santas. Tickets: 561-644- Transportation to Orlando Holy hotel. Deadline: Feb. 2. 772-342- and spiritual healing. For more Main celebrant: Bishop Gerald 5489, 561-242-2265, mmartens@ Land exhibit with visits to Morse 0837, bmckinley@diocesepb. information on diocesan policies M. Barbarito. Mass airs Christmas cardinalnewman.com. Museum in Winter Park that org, 561-360-3330, dkazimir@ and procedures for reporting Day for viewers including the sick Ascension young adults features an extensive collection catholiccharitiesdpb.org. abuse as well as to view the USCCB and homebound. All are invited group meeting: Mondays, 7 p.m., of Tiffany pieces, and stop at Bok “Charter for the Protection of Tower Gardens. Cost: $265, includes Family conference: Feb. Children and Young People,” visit to participate dressed in holiday St. Patrick Parish, 13591 Prosperity 20, 2016, Palm Beach County attire. Light holiday refreshments Farms Road, Palm Beach Gardens. transportation, double-occupancy www.diocesepb.org and click on hotel accommodations, meals and Convention Center, 650 Offices/Safe Environments. follow Mass. 561-775-9529 or All young adults are invited and Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm [email protected]. welcome. 561-626-8626 or nicole@ entrance fees to sites. 561-496- 2213. Beach. “Family Fully Alive in Airing of televised Christmas stpatrickchurch.org. Christ,” presented by Catholic Men Mass: Dec. 25, 6 a.m. on WPTV, Catholic Grandparents Prayer gathering: Fridays, 9:45 for Jesus Christ of Florida. Guest MASSES/PRAYER and 9 a.m. on CW34 WTVX. Association chapter meeting: a.m., and Tuesdays, 3 p.m., 8177 speakers: Lila Rose and Deacon Glades Road, Boca Raton. Pray with SESSIONS Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito is main Dec. 8, 10-11:30 a.m., Ascension Harold Burke-Sivers. Performances others for the end of abortion. celebrant for the Mass that was Parish, 7250 N. Federal Highway, by juggling entertainer Paul Charismatic praise and 561-347-1636. produced from the Cathedral of Boca Raton. Open to all. 561-734- Ponce. Ike Ndolo and his band will worship meeting: Tuesdays St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach 5308, [email protected]. Prayer gathering: Fridays, perform for youths. Conference 7 p.m., St. Jude Parish, 21689 Gardens. Mass features music Charities dinner and auction: 5 p.m., on the sidewalks near A ends shortly before 4 p.m. with Toledo Road, Boca Raton. Main and choir. Christmas Day Mass is Dec. 11, 5 p.m., St. Mark the Woman’s World Medical Center Mass celebrated by Bishop celebrant: Carmelite Father Richard produced especially for the sick Evangelist, 1924 Zephyr Ave., Fort that offers abortion services, 503 S. Gerald M. Barbarito. Cost: $10 Champigny. Healing Mass last and homebound. 561-775-9529 or Pierce. Proceeds benefit St. Vincent 12th St., Fort Pierce. Treasure Coast per person; $25 per family. www. Tuesdays. 561-392-8172. rosary group leads rosary recitation [email protected]. de Paul Society and educational catholicmenforjesuschristofflorida. Monthly Mass and spiriutal for the end of abortion. 772-465- Diocesan Mass to honor ministries. 561-685-2342. org/. talk for home-schooled 8298. married love and the gift of Christmas concert: Dec. 13, Women’s spiritual students and families: Third life: Jan. 23, 2016, 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m., St. Patrick Parish, 13591 Pray the rosary for life: conference: March 19, 2016, 8 Fridays, 10 a.m., Our Lady of Florida Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Prosperity Farms Road, Palm Saturdays, 9-10 a.m., sidewalks just a.m., Cathedral of St. Ignatius Spiritual Center, U.S. Highway 9999 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Beach Gardens. “A (mostly) Celtic north of the Wellington Regional Loyola, 9999 Military Trail, 1, North Palm Beach. Middle Gardens. Vigil Mass celebrated Christmas” with St. Patrick choirs, Medical Center, 10101 Forest Hill Palm Beach Gardens. Mass with schoolers and teens also invited. by Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, guest soloists and instrumentalists. Blvd., Wellington. All invited to main celebrant Bishop Gerald Spiritual reflection, talk followed includes blessing of babies in the Free admission. 561-626-8626 or pray for the end of abortions. 561- M. Barbarito, sacrament of by 11:30 a.m. Mass. 561-340-9881. 784-0689. womb. Sponsored by the diocesan [email protected]. reconciliation, rosary, adoration Requiem Mass: Second Office of Marriage and Family Life. International holiday concert: and talks. Guest speaker: ValLimar Saturdays, 10 a.m., Our Lady Queen Light reception follows. 561-775- Dec. 15, 6 p.m., St. John Fisher Jansen, singer and storyteller. of Peace Cemetery, 10941 Southern 9557 or [email protected]. Parish, 4001 N. Shore Drive, West RETREATS/DAYS Early registration: $30, includes Blvd., Royal Palm Beach. Offered Workshops for extraordinary Palm Beach. Free admission. 561- OF PRAYER continental breakfast and lunch. for those who have been laid to ministers of holy Communion: 842-8750. Patti Amann, 561-662-4780; Vivian rest during the previous month, For both new and experienced Ongoing clergy formation: Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Rogers, 561-799-1975. all the deceased at the cemetery, ministers. Call parish office to make Jan. 18-22, 2016, St. Vincent de Center: Retreats and programs Catholic radio stations are and all the holy souls in purgatory. reservations with the diocesan Paul Regional Seminary, 10701 S. available for clergy, religious, men, available through the radio, 561-793-0711. Liturgy Office. Military Trail, Boynton Beach. Priest women, married couples, singles the Internet and application Home-Schooled on the • Jan. 23, 2016, St. Martin de Winter Institute with presenters Dr. and people in recovery programs. downloads: WPBV FM (98.3 FM, Treasure Coast: Gatherings Porres Parish, 2555 N.E. Savanna Tim Gray and Dr. Edward Sri. Topics: Season theme: “Be Merciful www.wpbvradio.com); WJPP for Mass monthly. Parish Road, Jensen Beach. Gospel of Luke, new evangelization as Your Father.” Reservations (100.1 FM, www.wjppfm.com); locations varies. 772-337-1530 or • Feb. 20, 2016, St. Patrick Parish, and the Year of Mercy. Open to all required except when stated. and WDMC (920 AM, www. AcevedoHomeschoolers@hotmail. 13591 Prosperity Farms Road, Palm priests. 561-732-4424. Location: 1300 U.S. Highway 1, divinemercyradio.com). com. Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic YOUR PALM BEACH COMMUNITY 8 Young people gather to feed the hungry

St. Joan of Arc School students, young people from the parish’s religious education program and youngsters from neighboring schools and parishes gathered together in service this fall to fight hunger as part of the You(th) vs. Hunger program. Designed by Cross Catholic Outreach, a nonprofit ministry serving the poor, the project attracted 237 young people who first raised $7,500 to buy food and then gathered to bag and box it. In all, the young people worked side

by side in the spirit of service, pack- 33885-1204 ing over 100,000 meals in less than three hours. The food was then shipped to areas of Haiti, Guatema- la and Nicaragua to feed the poor.

Left and above, young people gather to pack and box food in efforts to feed the hungry in poor areas of the world. The program was part of an annual service project hosted at St. Joan of Arc in Boca Raton in conjunction with Cross Catholic Outreach, a ministry founded to help the poor throughout the world. (COURTESY PHOTOS)

Light a candle for all children who have died. Worldwide Candle Lighting® ...that their light may always shine. Sunday December 13 | 6:30 p.m. Our Lady of Queen Peace Cemetery 10941 Southern Blvd. Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 32626-1204 More info: Darlene Fernandez 561-346-2274 33109-1204 www.thefloridacatholic.org | dec. 4-17, 2015 FLORIDACatholic VENICE DIOCESE ChRIstMAs AppEAl Catholic Charities relies on generosity of faithful BoB Reddy chance to brighten the future for your neighbors who come FYI of the Florida Catholic staff to Catholic Charities for help. Any gift amount is greatly ap- preciated. The social service organization annually receives The following are Venice | During his recent visit to the United States, the top rating for fiscal responsibility from Charity Naviga- service locations and the Pope Francis called Catholic Charities the “salt, leaven tor, an independent evaluator of nonprofit organizations. services and programs of- and light that provides a beacon of hope to those in Bishop Frank J. Dewane said the work of Catholic Chari- fered by Catholic Charities need.” ties is a reflection of the commitment of the Church to help of the Diocese of Venice: This holiday season is an opportunity to support the needy. “It is the generosity of the people of the Diocese of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Venice through Venice that helps keep Catholic Charities functioning and SERVICE LOCATIONS the 14th annual Christmas Appeal. This appeal goes a helping the greatest number possible. A donation, when lev- Arcadia (two locations) long way to meeting the essentials of eraged with others, will make a meaningful difference for Boca Grande thousands of needy people across those who turn to Catholic Charities for assistance.” Bonita Springs Southwest Florida. Bradenton “A gift to the annual Christ- MAKING A DIFFERENCE Clewiston mas Appeal will empower Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities in Venice has Fort Myers (three locations) Catholic Charities to address cared for more than 300 homeless mothers and their chil- Highlands and Glades counties the concerns of every com- dren with the transitional housing and case management Immokalee (two locations) munity,” explained Catholic needed to become stable and independent. Soon, additional Naples (two locations) Charities CEO Peter Rout- apartments will be open to young women who lack a secure North Port (two locations) sis-Arroyo. “Throughout home and existence for themselves and their child. Palmetto (two locations) the region there are Casa San Juan Bosco of Catholic Charities farmworker Port Charlotte barriers to decent community in Arcadia has been called the finest in the Sarasota (seven locations) homes, education country. Construction of Phase Two will add 44 new homes Venice (three locations) and jobs for those for those who harvest crops along with a larger community Wauchula who are margin- center to provide a second location for the successful after- PROGRAMS and SERVICES alized. Catholic school program for children and adult education classes. Charities ensures The newly opened Golden Gate Senior Center in Collier Affordable housing that donations County has already seen more than 100 elders every day After-school program go where most receive a nutritious hot meal and engaging activities. This After-school reading program needed.” burgeoning program is enlarging its services with the goal After-school tutoring program Casework services/needs Food, edu- to combat isolation and apathy among seniors. assessment cation, shelter, Catholic Charities Human Trafficking Victims Assistance Citizenship classes housing and sup- began as a small pilot program in 2009 and has grown to one Clothing bank port are at the core of what Catho- of the largest in the state. More than 154 victims have been Counseling services lic Charities provides to more than saved from enslavement to become productive citizens in Day care center 40,000 families and individuals each our communities. Disaster preparedness and year regardless of race, nationality or creed. In 2015, the Catholic Charities Family Haven was response A mother and child helped by Catholic A total of 93 cents of each dollar donated launched to provide emergency shelter to homeless families Distribution of FEMA funds Charities. (COURTESY) to Catholic Charities goes directly to pro- in the North Port area. Long-term care now begins with the DUI groups grams and services. The Christmas Appeal is a purchase and renovation of homes that allow continuing as- Early learning center sistance to achieve self-reliance. English classes HOW TO HELP “A gift to the Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal can do Farmworker housing Financial assistance The 14th annual Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal is underway and needs support. Monetary gifts great things. The commitment and generosity help answer First-time homebuyer class provide funding for the many Catholic Charities programs and services available throughout Southwest the prayers of clients,” Routis-Arroyo said. “We are always Food assistance Florida, and enable Catholic Charities to serve families, individuals and seniors seeking help all year long. grateful to supporters who walk with Catholic Charities in Food pantry For information about the efforts of Catholic Charities, programs or services, call 941-488-5581. To make spirit and enable assistance that breaks the cycle of poverty. Food stamps/Medicaid a donation, visit www.catholiccharities dov.org. Mailed donations can be sent to Catholic Charities, Thank you to everyone who is considering a gift this Christ- applications Diocese of Venice, Inc., 5824 Bee Ridge Road, PMB 409, Sarasota, FL 34233-5065. mas season.” n HIV/AIDS housing HIV/AIDS support services Homeless shelter for families and children Housing counseling and Annual Mass honors memory of deacons, spouses foreclosure prevention Human trafficking program BoB Reddy in memory of the permanent to honor those who lived that Immigration services of the Florida Catholic staff deacons and their spouses light and are truly missed. We Infant/toddler supplies who have died through the must also remember that they Residential program for Venice | Remembering years. A particular empha- are the happy ones, as they mothers and children those who have gone before, sis is on honoring those who are living the promise of Jesus Refugee services Bishop Frank J. Dewane cel- have died in the previous year Christ in the Resurrection.” Refugee youth program ebrated the annual Deacon as their names are read. More Deacon Richard Frohm- Senior services Memorial Mass Nov. 24 at than 30 deacons and their iller said it is powerful for the Soup kitchen Our Lady of Perpetual Help spouses participated in the deacons and their spouses Summer youth program Retreat Center in Venice. Mass. to gather for the Memorial Tutoring The Mass is celebrated in “We are all called to take Mass. “We are here to honor Veterans housing November to coincide with the Light of Christ and re- their service and commit- Youth mentoring programs Bishop Frank J. Dewane speaks during the annual the month of All Souls. Dur- flect it to the world,” Bishop ment to the diaconate and to Deacon Memorial Mass Nov. 24. (BOB REDDY | FC) ing the Mass a candle is lit Dewane said. “We are here the Church,” he said. n Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 2

Bags of Thanksgiving food are distributed to more than 1,200 families at the St. More than 200 bags of Thansgiving food are distributed at the Catholic Charities Judy Vincent de Paul Society food pantry at St. Joseph Parish in Brandenton Nov. 23-25. Sullivan Family Resource Center in Naples Nov. 23. Volunteers from the area, including (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) St. John Neumann Catholic High School, assisted in collecting and distributing. Thanksgiving is about giving thanks

Bob Reddy people have food for the holiday. “It Bishop of the Florida Catholic staff really came together with everyone Frank J. chipping in to make this a reality,” Dewane NAPLES | What better way to O’Driscoll said. is on the celebrate Thanksgiving than to give One beneficiary of the food dis- serving back to others. tribution, Samantha, said the food line at That is exactly what many peo- she received will go a long way to the 30th ple did throughout the Thanksgiv- helping her family. “We’re both out annual ing holiday week as they gave to of work right now so having a spe- Knights of the needy, some serving hot meals cial meal is a luxury. These people Columbus while others handed out bags of really put a smile on my face today.” Council food for those less fortunate. Bishop Frank J. Dewane was in 3358 Thanks- At the Catholic Charities Judy the middle of Thanksgiving activi- giving Sullivan Family Resource Center in ties. First he celebrated Mass at Our dinner Naples, more than 200 bags of food Lady of the Angels Parish in Lake- Nov. 26 in were distributed Nov. 23-24. The wood Ranch. As with many par- Sarasota. bags included two frozen chickens ishes throughout the Diocese on More in lieu of a turkey. Helping in vari- Thanksgiving, a special collection than 600 ous ways for the Thanksgiving give- of canned goods was held. hot meals away were student volunteers from Upon leaving Our Lady of the were St. John Neumann Catholic High Angels Parish, Bishop Dewane went served. School and the Ave Maria School of to the Knights of Columbus Hall on Law. Work included sorting donat- Fruitville Road in Sarasota which is ed food, packing bags and helping run by Council 3358, of which the Thanksgiving Day dinner for the on top. Thanksgiving was a multicul- load packages in vehicles. Bishop is a member Knight. There homeless, homebound, lonely and Volunteers in Immokalee dis- tural event at St. Peter the Apostle The St. Vincent de Paul Society he served vegetables on the hot anyone else who wanted to enjoy tributed approximately 600 baskets Parish in Naples. First there was the based at St. Joseph Parish in Bra- food service line. “It’s an honor to be a delicious, wholesome meal in of food for Guadalupe Social Ser- morning Mass, celebrated in Eng- denton worked to make a happy here with the Knights, as what they the company of others. More than vices of Catholic Charities in Collier lish, Spanish and Creole. Immedi- Thanksgiving for more than 1,200 do helps put a smile on the faces of 650 people, many from area nurs- County. This annual tradition pro- ately following the Mass was a hot needy families. Patti O’Driscoll of many of our brothers and sisters in ing homes, were served a meal that vides a basket of essential food for turkey dinner for about 350 people, the society said the support from Christ.” included turkey, mashed potatoes, area farmworkers who might not a tradition which volunteers pas- parishes in Manatee County was This was the 30th year the corn, cranberry sauce, roll and otherwise have the money to pur- sionately embrace to help the less overwhelming, ensuring that many Knights of Columbus hosted its pumpkin pie with whipped cream chase food for a holiday. fortunate have a festive day. n

SOLAR Paar de float COOK-OFF The STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) team from Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers took first- and third- place awards at the Solar Cook-Off Challenge. (COURTESY)

Members of Epiphany Cathedral youth group stand in front of a float that was part of the annual Venice holiday parade Nov. 28. (COURTESY) 3 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015

‘Awesome’ Youth Rally 1,700 teens gather to ‘Be a Light of Mercy for Christ’ Bob Reddy of the Florida Catholic staff

Punta Gorda | On eve of the Feast of Christ the King, youth gathered to celebrate their faith provided a glimpse at the bright future of the Church. Representing more than 40 different parishes and schools from across the Diocese of Venice, 1,700 teens converged Nov. 21 at the Char- lotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda for the 2015 Diocese of Venice Catholic Youth Rally. One teen from St. John the Evangelist described the experience as “awesome.” “I am so in love with the Church right now. I am part of something very special. It so good to be a part of this. I can’t wait to tell all of my friends they need to come next year.” Presentations by internationally were provided LED bicycle lights Above, participants renowned speakers challenged the that created a rolling wave of light of the diocesan youth to reassess their lives and to as they spread across the street and Youth Rally process focus more on having Jesus as the sidewalks. All the while, partici- through the streets center of their life. The theme for pants recited the rosary. of downtown Punta the day was “Be a Light of Mercy for A teen from St. Michael Parish in Gorda. Bishop Christ,” which was both a challenge Wauchula described the procession Frank J. Dewane and an aspiration each participant as a powerful experience. “It was led the eucharistic was encouraged to think about. so moving,” she said. “We were all procession with 1,700 youth as he Bishop Frank J. Dewane wel- together, walking with Jesus. Very held the Eucharist comed the youth early in the day, cool.” in a monstrance. noting how impressive it is to see This year’s presenters included At left, Father Leo so many young faces. He later cele- Doug Barry, Megan Mastroianni, Patalinghug breaks brated Mass at nearby Sacred Heart and Father Leo Patalinghug as well boards as part of Parish, during which he noted how as a performance by the Jon Niven his presentation. appropriate that the rally was held band. (PHOTOS BY BOB on the feast of Christ the King. “You A recurring theme throughout REDDY | FC) need to ask yourselves, who or what the talks was to encourage the youth is the king in your life? Make Christ to grow in their love for Christ and ing to confession and much more, Barry is founder of RADIX — a speaker, served as emcee for part of your King!” to embrace the gift that is the Sacra- they too can develop skills on how group that encourages and inspires the day and spoke about the need to Citing the concerns of Pope Fran- ments. The Sacrament of Reconcili- to overcome any temptation from the faithful to strengthen their rela- remember that everyone is unique, cis about the modern society, Bish- ation was emphasized because of the devil. tionship with God. He encouraged made in the image and likeness of op Dewane said most people today, the healing power it can bring. Multiple confessors were avail- participants to be battle-ready in God. “You are a gift, flaws and all. youth included, are obsessed with Father Patalinghug said the devil able throughout the day and at a a world that focuses more on sup- You are no accident. You are part of material possessions and them- is struggling to take the youth far- certain point the line was 30 people pressing the expression of one’s something special. Celebrate this selves, so much so that they don’t ther away from Christ. Knowing long, an inspiring number as the faith. He later spoke to the teen with a strong love for Christ in your leave enough room in their heart the dangers can help one prepare to youth realized its importance in boys, reminding them that they life.” for Jesus. “We are all flawed; that is defend oneself. As an object lesson, their lives. need to strive always to be men of She spoke independently to the what we share. Jesus accepts us no he used his skill in martial arts by “I went to confession for the first faith, prayer and action and to treat teen girls and reminded them of the matter what. He wants all of us to breaking four boards. time since I was confirmed,” one women as a treasure to be protected. need for chastity and to be pro-life. join him in everlasting life. Every- While inspiring to the teens, Fa- boy from St. Charles Borromeo Par- “There is a real spiritual enemy that In the end she reminded all of the thing else takes you farther away ther Patalinghug said the point of ish in Port Charlotte explained. “I seeks to destroy those who have young ladies that they need to grow from the Lord. Do not be afraid to the demonstration was not to elicit was nervous, but now I feel a whole been given to our care. We need in a deeper desire for intimacy with join Christ. Let him be your king cheers — which it did — but to show lot better. I don’t know why I waited. to fight for their lives and for their Jesus Christ, especially through the and you will be rewarded.” that by growing closer to Christ I’m glad I went. I know I need to go souls.” Sacraments and a relationship with The Mass was preceded by pow- through reading the Bible and go- more often and that’s OK.” Mastroianni, a motivational Mary, the mother of Jesus. n erful, spiritual moments, including the Exposition of the Blessed Sacra- ment for adoration. The silence in the conference center was palpable as teens were given a clear reminder of the core teachings of the faith: the real presence of Christ. Adoration concluded with a eucharistic procession, led by Bish- op Dewane carrying the Blessed Sacrament in a monstrance while flanked by seminarians and teens as they walked through the streets of busy downtown Punta Gorda on their way to Sacred Heart Church Above, Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrates Mass at Sacred Heart Parish for Mass. in Punta Gorda at the 2015 Diocese of Venice Youth Rally Nov. 21. At During the procession, teens right, diocesan seminarians pray with participants of the rally. Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 4

Above, speakers Doug Barry and Meagan Mastroianni and inspire the youth during the Diocese of Venice Youth Rally in Punta Gorda. At right, youth from Epiphany Cathedral are among 1,700 who gathered for the Nov. 21 rally at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) One youth’s perspective of diocesan Youth Rally

Juliette Chero As you enter the rally, your heart perfect message of love and mercy. that we all have the same goal — to ment. You could hear the roars of Special to the Florida Catholic automatically adopts the rhythm This year was especially different be loved, forgiven and wanted. This Hail Marys and Our Fathers as we of the bass of the band while your for me, due to the opportunity to makes differences disappear and came walking through the streets of Punta Gorda | After expe- brain processes the lyrics provided speak in front of these teens shar- opens hearts to embracing each Punta Gorda. riencing such a beautiful time last on the screen. Then, you joined the ing a personal testimony. other as individuals without a label. We were part of something great, year at the Youth Rally held in Pun- 1,700 other teens worshipping and Each and every one of us come I wish there existed the right something holy and pure. We were ta Gorda, I didn’t know how much loving God. It’s truly breathtaking from different backgrounds and words or expressions to captivate once again reassured that we are more the bar could be raised. Yet to see youth on fire for God. situations. Although we have our the emotions and joy that occurred not alone in this walk of faith. n another year goes by where the rally Guided by the Holy Spirit, the differences in some aspects, we all throughout the day. Ending the surpassed my expectations. speakers and musicians completed come together to share this won- night with a Eucharistic procession Juliette is a member of the youth The environment was one of the their mission in getting the teens derful experience and encounter. had spectators clapping and pulling group at St. Jude Parish in Sara- most amazing aspects of the day. fully engaged, while spreading the We become whole as we realize out their phone to capture the mo- sota. Retirement Fund for Religious During her first year of teaching, Precious Blood Sister Ann Hipp, 95, had 40 students in four grades. “It was only by the grace of God that I got through that first year,” she recalls, laughing. Sister Ann would go on to spend 50 years in the classroom and continues in volunteer ministry today. She and some 33,000 senior Catholic sisters, brothers, and religious order priests benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious. Your generosity helps provide prescription medications, nursing care, and more.

Please give to those who have given a lifetime. www.retiredreligious.org

Over 93 percent of donations aid senior religious. To donate: National Religious Retirement Office/FLA 3211 Fourth Street NE Washington DC 20017-1194 Make check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious. Or give at your local parish December 12–13.

Photos: (left) Sister Ann Hipp, CPPS, 95; (above from left) Brother Anselm Allen, OSB, 76; Sister Luanna Brucks, CPPS, 90; 34788-1204 Sister Rosemary Zaffuto, ASCJ, 87. ©2015 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photographer: Jim Judkis. 5 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015

ADVENT WREATH BLESSING Newsbriefs Bishop elected to committee chair for U.S. bishops Bishop Frank J. Dewane was Florida selected as chairman-elect of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Domes- DIOCESE OF VENICE tic Justice and Human Develop- ment. The committee assists the Vol. 77, No. 3 U.S. Bishops, both collectively and individually, in advancing 1000 Pinebrook Road the social mission of the Church, Venice, FL 34285 within a culturally diverse com- 941-484-9543 • Fax 941-483-1121 munity, through education, poverty awareness, capac- PUBLISHER ity- and constituency-building, Bishop Frank Dewane outreach, policy development, DIOCESAN EDITOR advocacy, and the organization Bob Reddy of low-income communities. [email protected] The committee advises the 941-484-9543 bishops on issues of human dignity, human rights, develop- • SUBSCRIPTIONS, CIRCULATION: ment, poverty and justice. “It is Contact Tammy Osborne at 1-888-275-9953, humbling to be selected to this or customerservice@theflorida Bishop Frank J. Dewane blesses the Advent wreath at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice Nov. 29, the first Sunday of Advent. (BOB REDDY | FC) important position by my fellow catholic.org Bishops,” said Bishop Dewane, Notify us of address changes (temporary who has served on the commit- or permanent) as soon as possible. Please tee for several years, succeeding change your address online at www. Archbishop Thomas Wenski of thefloridacatholic.org or call Tammy at Miami as the chairman. 1-888-275-9953. Seminarians to be ordained to This mandate of the Com- mittee on Domestic Justice and • ADVERTISING: Contact Jane Radetsky at Human Development includes 407-373-0075 or the following areas of responsi- [email protected] Transitional Diaconate Dec. 19 • CLASSIFIED ADS: Contact Mike Carlock bility: domestic policy and advocacy, Catholic social teaching at 1-888-275-9953, or Staff Report [email protected] education outreach to Dioceses and Catholic social mission or- State Offices: 50 E. Robinson St., Suite Venice | After years of study ganizations, and the Church’s G, Orlando, FL 32801-1619; P.O. Box 4993; Orlando, FL 32802-4993; 407-373-0075; two Diocese of Venice seminarians domestic anti-poverty effort, Toll-free 1-888-275-9953; Fax 407-373-0087 will take a major step in their jour- the Catholic Campaign for Hu- ney to respond to the call of Christ man Development, including EXECUTIVE & EDITORIAL STAFF: in their lives. the Campaign’s grant-making, General Manager: Ann Borowski Slade Grzegorz Klich and Chuck Ruoff poverty-awareness initiatives, Editorial/Online Director: Jean Gonzalez will be ordained to the Transitional and resource development ac- Business Manager: Pat Spencer Advertising Sales Manager: Diaconate by Bishop Frank J. De- tivities. Jane Radetsky wane. The ordination Mass will Copy Editor: Mary Rose Denaro be celebrated Saturday, Dec. 19, 11 Naples teen Social Media/Community Specialist: a.m., at Epiphany Cathedral in Ven- Michael Carlock ice. The Mass will be followed by a performs in Advertising Graphic Designer: reception in the Parish hall. All are Michael Jimenez Chuck Ruoff Grzegorz Klich Macy’s Parade Advertising Assistant: Valerie Casko invited and encouraged to attend this ceremony, steeped in the tradi- Those who had time to watch Have a comment/want more info/ tion of the Church. ers. Ruoff, 58, was born in Philadel- Ordained for the service of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day have a story suggestion? Leave your Ordination to transitional dea- phia and grew up on the New Jersey charity and the Proclamation of Parade in New York City may feedback at www.thefloridacatholic.org; con is a very moving and special shore, and is in his final year at St. the Word, Transitional Deacons have spotted a Naples teen. Katie click reader feedback button on left of moment in the lives of Klich and John XXIII National Seminary in continue the ministry of Christ. As Burmeister, a St. John Neumann screen. Ruoff as they are entering into the Weston, Mass. part of their formation for priest- Catholic High School junior, Send statewide news releases to last stage before priesthood. This A Transitional Deacon is one hood, all candidates must first be was part of the Spirit of America [email protected] time will be used in order to deep- who desires to ultimately be called ordained to the Diaconate. This Cheerleaders corps. Katie was en their knowledge about what it to the priesthood. At the diaconate formation process helps remind invited to be one of 650 partici- Our staff meets for prayer each work day at means to be at the service of Christ. ordination, the ordinandi commits the men that all priests are ser- pants following a special audi- 9 a.m. Send prayer intentions to prayers@ Klich, 33, is from Harklowa, Po- himself to a celibate life and the vants first. Klich will continue to tion. That audition also included thefloridacatholic.org land, and has completed his studies daily recitation of the Divine Office. serve as a Transitional Deacon a previous trip to perform in the All contents copyright © 2015, The Florida at Ss. Cyril and Methodius Semi- As Transitional Deacons, Klich and at St. Francis Xavier Parish until London New Year’s Day Parade. Catholic Inc., except stories and photos from nary in Orchard Lake, Mich. He is Ruoff may baptize, distribute Holy his ordination to the priesthood. Catholic News Service. currently on pastoral assignment at Communion, preach during the lit- Ruoff will return to the seminary St. Francis Xavier Parish in Fort My- urgy and witness marriages. to complete his studies. n

At left, Bishop Frank J. Dewane censes a platform holding Christ the King at St. Martha Parish in Sarasota as part of a Nov. 22 celebration of the Vietnamese Catholic communities at St. Martha and St. John XXIII in Fort Myers. Above, the faithful participate in a procession around St. Martha Parish in Sarasota as part of the celebration. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) Vietnamese Catholics unite for celebration Bob Reddy St. Martha and St. John XXIII Parish held a statue of Christ the King Martha; and Father John Cao of St. who were canonized by St. John of the Florida Catholic staff in Fort Myers. The Mass included placed on a platform with roses. John XXIII concelebrated the Mass Paul II in 1988. He added the faith- a celebration of Christ the King as Throughout the procession there with the Bishop. Both Father Ba Son ful should take the responsibility to Sara sota | The two active well as an early recognition of the was singing with an accompani- Lam and Father Cao are members sacrifice a little part of themselves Vietnamese Catholic communities feast of St. Andrew Dung-Lac and ment from traditional musical in- of the Congregation of Mother Co- while serving Christ in their every- in the Diocese of Venice gathered Companions — the Vietnamese struments. Redemptrix and are in the Diocese day lives. “You are the children of Nov. 22 for a celebration of their martyrs. Pallotine Father Fausto Stam- to specifically serve the Vietnamese the Vietnamese martyrs. How do faith at St. Martha Parish in Sara- Prior to the Mass, participants, piglia, pastor of St. Martha; Father Catholic community. you live up to the blood they spilled sota. some dressed in traditional cloth- Duong Nguyen, parochial vicar at During the homily, Father Nguy- in your own lives?” Bishop Frank J. Dewane celebrating, processed on the church prop- San Marco Parish in Marco Island; en spoke about the need to remem- A traditional Vietnamese meal ed a Mass for the communities from erty, following behind those who Father Philip Ba Son Lam of St. ber the 117 Vietnamese martyrs followed in the parish hall. n

2015 Rose Ball Event honors young ladies, benefits homeless of Collier County

Bob Reddy of the Florida Catholic staff

N APLES | Honoring young ladies for their commitment to service in the community and also helping raise money for the homeless of Collier County, the second biennial Rose Ball was held Nov. 28 at the Naples Grande Beach Re- sort. This black-tie event was presented by the Mother Frances de Sales Auxiliary to the Homeless, and recognized 32 young ladies, known as Rose Girls, who were dressed in long white ball gowns and gloves, escorted by young men in tuxedos and tails. Bishop Frank J. Dewane presents a Rose Girl with a Each of the Rose Girls com- medallion of St. Leonie Frances de Sales Aviat during mitted to a two-and-a-half-year the Nov. 28 Mother Frances de Sales Auxiliary to volunteer and personal formation Rose Girls, adorned in long white ball gowns and gloves, dance with their escorts, the Homeless Rose Ball at the Naples Grande Beach program where they make pledges young men dressed in tuxedo and tails. Resort in Naples. (PHOTOS BY BOB REDDY | FC) of dignity, charity, and purity, and were presented to those gathered well as completion of a personal was told she was likely going to be was pain-free. The doctors had no areas of Mexico and New Mexico. as Dignified Ladies of Volunteer formation program. Following the paralyzed for life and would be in medical explanation for her lack She completed undergraduate Service. Bishop Frank J. Dewane presentation of each girl, the cer- terrible pain. Her home parish, St. of pain, even though the tethered and graduate degrees and is now a presented each young lady with emony concluded with a waltz. Bernadette in Drexel Hill, Pa., had spinal cord condition was still teacher, wife and mother. n a medallion of the organization’s Bernadette McKenzie Kutufaris a group of religious sisters from present. This event was docu- patron, St. Leonie Frances de Sales offered the keynote. She shared the Oblate Sisters of St. Frances de mented and researched before be- Proceeds for the Rose Ball will Aviat. her personal story of seeking the Sales, who encouraged the family ing declared the second miracle of benefit area homeless endeavors, The girls committed to exten- intercession of St. Leonie Aviat. and the entire parish to pray a no- St. Leonie Aviat, who was canon- including Sunlight Home, St. Vin- sive service efforts around Collier At the age of 12 she was diag- vena to then-Blessed Leonie Aviat. ized by St. John Paul II in Novem- cent de Paul Society, Providence County in various ways, including nosed with a debilitating condition Four days into the novena, on ber 2001. House and St. Matthew House. soup kitchens, diaper drives, nurs- known as a tethered spinal cord. March 25, the Annunciation of McKenzie Kutufaris did mis- For more information, visit www. ing home visitation, and more, as After years of surgeries, her family the Blessed Virgin Mary, the teen sionary work in impoverished motherfrancesdesalesaux.com. 7 YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015

parishes throughout the Diocese. celebrated throughout the and dancing. Tickets: $150 per Parish, Lehigh Acres. Learn how DIOCESAN EVENTS Each location will host a series Diocese monthly with the final person. 941-355-4680, ext. 311; couples can really and truly give of weekly talks and discussions Mass taking place on Dec. 25, www.catholiccharitiesdov.org; themselves completely to each National Night of Prayer for on relevant topics in a relaxed offered for a greater respect for [email protected]. other while using natural family Life, Dec. 8, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Parishes atmosphere. Free baby-sitting, all human life. Complete schedule planning. Lisa Stalnaker, 239- throughout the country will join Anniversary Masses 2016 icebreakers, trivia, and food at www.dioceseofvenice.org/ 303-9257. To register for the class in prayer to restore life, liberty, for couples celebrating 25, 30, and drinks are provided. BYOB. respectlife. Join in this special series or learn about the new the faith and peace, uniting 35, 40, 45, 50, or more years of Upcoming dates: observance of the life of Jesus in online, self-paced class, visit ccli. the Feast of the Immaculate marriage. Bishop Frank J. Dewane, the womb of our Blessed Mother. org. Conception with the Feast of St. • Naples area, Tuesdays, 6:30-8 main celebrant. Feb. 13, 11 a.m., Juan Diego. People in all time p.m. First Tuesdays, St. John the Adopt a family for Epiphany Cathedral, Venice; Faith and Ale, Fort Myers, zones will pray simultaneously Evangelist; second Tuesdays, St. Christmas. Our Mother’s House March 12, 10 a.m., St. Leo Parish, Jan. 21, 6 p.m., Resurrection midnight-1 a.m. EST. Parishes Agnes; third Tuesdays, St. Peter of Catholic Charities in Venice Bonita Springs. Registration is Parish, Fort Myers. Monthly participating 9 p.m.-1 a.m.: the Apostle; fourth Tuesdays, St. seeks volunteers to adopt a family through individual parishes. gathering of Catholic men Epiphany Cathedral, Venice; Our William. in the program by purchasing gifts Catholic Days at the Capitol. includes pizza and refreshments, Lady of the Angels, Lakewood Eucharistic Adoration, first on their wish list such as towel Registration open for annual followed by local, regional and Ranch; San Marco, Marco Island; Thursdays, 3 p.m., Our Lady of sets, sheets, laundry supplies, gas three-day bus trip to Tallahassee national Catholic speakers. www. San Pedro, North Port. Additional Perpetual Help Retreat Center, cards, gift cards, etc. Rita, 941-485- Feb. 16-18. Register and reserve faithandale.com. prayer services: St. Maximilian Venice. 941-486-0233, gazo@olph- 6264. hotel room by submitting form at Faith and Wine, Naples, Kolbe, Port Charlotte, 1-2 p.m. retreat.org. ICSF Course 101 Catechetics www.flaccb.org. Jeanne Berdeaux, Jan. 28, Feb. 25, and March after noon Mass; St. Michael, Day of prayer, second (FUS prerequisite), Thursdays, 941-441-1101 or Berdeaux@ 31, 6:30-8:30 p.m., St. John the Wauchula, after 8 p.m. Mass; St. Wednesdays through April 2016, beginning Jan. 14, 2016, through dioceseofvenice.org. Evangelist Parish, 625 111th Ave. Raphael, Lehigh Acres, rosary 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Our Lady of April, except Holy Week. The Diocese of Venice Women’s N., Naples. Includes dinner, wine led by teens 8-9 p.m. in chapel. Perpetual Help Retreat Center, Institute for Catholic Studies and Conference 2016, Feb. 27, and inspirational Catholic speakers Jeanne Berdeaux, Berdeaux@ Venice. Includes continental Formation’s first prerequisite Bishop Verot Catholic High School, for women. Advanced registration dioceseofvenice.org, 941-441- breakfast, lunch, two conferences course for new master’s program Fort Myers. Registration details required: www.faithandwine.com. 1101. and the opportunity for the at Franciscan University of will be forthcoming. Faith and Wine, Lee County, Steubenville. “Catechetics” is an Wednesday morning Sacrament of Reconciliation, First-time home buyers Jan. 28, 6:30 p.m., Our Lady of undergraduate 36-hour course adult faith formation video- Mass. Cost: $25 per person, classes, various dates, Catholic Light Parish, Fort Myers. Speaker: all students must take upon conferencing sessions, have preregistered; $30 at the door. Charities Office, 1219 16th St. Lois Thome on “Bridging The acceptance into the FUS graduate recommenced. The free sessions 941-486-0233, gazo@olph-retreat. W., Bradenton. Classes in both Gap Between Religion and program. Course is also open to are available simultaneously org. Spanish and English. Participants Journalism.” Women from all anyone, with or without a degree through the Institute for Catholic Advent retreat, Dec. 8-9, Our will be eligible for assistance for parishes invited. Free baby-sitting or for non-credit. Will be video- Studies and Formation centrally Lady of Perpetual Help Retreat down payment and closing costs. available. To register: www. Center, Venice. Prepare your heart conferenced from the Catholic Space is limited; preregistration faithandwineleecounty.com. located video-conferencing sites. Center to at least one parish in for Jesus. Nancy Gazo, 941-486- required. 941-714-7829. Free rosary repair service. Sessions begin 9 a.m. and last each deanery. 941-766-7334. about 90 minutes. Attendees can 0233, [email protected]. World Youth Day Send broken rosaries in a padded go to any location and need not Ordination Mass to the Project Rachel retreat pilgrimage: Limited spots left. envelope to: Betty and Dick participate in each session. For Transitional Diaconate, Dec. 19, for hope and healing after Diocese has already received Holden, 7930 Estero Blvd., No. 502, video sites, details about topics 11 a.m., Epiphany Cathedral, 350 abortion, Jan. 24, 2016, at a registration from 120 individuals Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. They and to view early sessions, visit Tampa Ave. W., Venice. Venice confidential location within to join Bishop Frank J. Dewane at will be repaired and returned https://institute.dov.org. Seminarians Grzegorz Klich and the Diocese. Registration open World Youth Day Krakow July 23 within a week. You can also Chuck Ruoff will be ordained by for one-day retreat designed to Aug. 2, 2016. Opportunity to donate old or broken rosaries to Theology on Tap. This exciting to help women hurting from program for young adults Bishop Frank J. Dewane. All are see Pope Francis amongst millions be sent to the missions. 239-463- invited to attend. Reception to past abortions. Chance to share of Catholic youth from around 3993 or [email protected]. (18-39) allows them to learn Scriptural stories of Christ’s about the faith while building follow in the Parish hall. the world in the birth country of SPRED: special religious healing love, spend quiet time in St. John Paul II, founder of World community. This year Theology Novena of Masses for Life. prayer and receive Sacramental development. Faith formation on Tap will be held at various Over 100 Masses have been Youth Day. Contact George Smith, program for young people with Reconciliation and Eucharist. [email protected]. Limited to 10 participants. special needs is up and running at Preregistration required. Contact Television Mass for the Epiphany Cathedral in Venice. For Fonda, 239-719-7210 or fonda. homebound in the northern ages 11 to 16. Sister Frances Lolar, [email protected]. portions of the Diocese, 9:30 Sisters of Mercy, 941-484-3505; or ARE YOU TIRED OF… a.m. on the CW Network; in Gene Erquiaga, 941-416-1804. National March for Life the southern portions of the Cooking dinner? Dining alone? planning. Those planning to Diocese, 10 a.m., on WFTX-TV participate in the National March (FOX-4). Check your local listings VOLUNTEERS The work involved with a for Life, Jan. 22, in Washington, for channel information. Leaflet D.C., please visit www. missals are available upon request NEEDED large home or apartment? marchforlife.org. All are welcome by calling 941-484-9543 and to join Bishop Frank J. Dewane asking about the TV Mass or Disaster Amateur Radio Uneasy about safety at home? for morning Mass at St. Peter’s on by writing: TV Mass, Diocese of Network (DARN) of Catholic Capitol Hill prior to the March. Venice, 1000 Pinebrook Road, Charities seeks volunteers to Jeanne Berdeaux, 941-441-1101 or Venice, FL 34285. Gail Ardy: 941- provide emergency and backup Worried about a loved one alone? [email protected]. 486-4714, ardy@dioceseofvenice. communications for disaster Sarasota Catholic Charities org. response teams in their community Would you like help near? Ball, Jan. 30, 2016, 6 p.m., Safe Environment training. in the immediate aftermath of Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Proceeds As part of the Safe Environment any type of disaster. All volunteers benefit the programs and services Program, the Diocese of Venice are licensed FCC amateur radio Would you like to live in an assisted living community of Catholic Charities Diocese requires that all employees and operators or agree to take the of Venice Inc. in Sarasota and those volunteers who work with steps required to obtain a license. in the Marco/Naples area with MODERATE Manatee counties, including Our Volunteers are needed in the 10 ENTRANCE FEE and MODERATE MONTHLY FEE? children and/or vulnerable adults Mother’s House, St. Martha’s be fingerprinted and trained in counties of the Diocese and can Early Learning Center, Bethesda serve from a fully equipped radio You might have a small apartment with kitchenette, Safe Environment. For class times House, Catholic Charities Family and locations, contact your local base station or be a member of the common dining room with choice of entrees, sides and Haven, financial assistance, parish or Diocesan school or visit in-residence group and operate desserts: a chapel, a resident chaplain, outdoor exercise senior services, refugee services, www.dioceseofvenice.org. Report from their home or personal and much more. Cocktail hour, vehicle using their own gear. pool; social exercise and activity rooms, transportation all abuses against minors to the auctions, dinner and dancing. Florida Department of Children Radio base stations are in Venice, to stores, medical appointments, amusements etc. Tickets: $300 per person. 941- and Families at 1-800-962-2873. Sarasota, Bradenton, Fort Myers, 355-4680, ext. 311; www. To report abuse by Diocesan Naples, Arcadia, Port Charlotte catholiccharitiesdov.org; personnel or volunteers, call and Immokalee. Only one general IF YOU FILL OUT AND SEND THE FORM BELOW, [email protected]. the Diocesan Victims Assistance meeting a year and network meets Diocese of Venice Men’s on air once a month to make sure WE MAY FIND A DEVELOPER WHO WOULD BUILD IT. 34909-1204 Coordinator Barbara DiCocco at Conference 2016, Feb. 6, Bishop 941-416-6114. all channels are loud and clear. I will NOT benefit financially from this project. Verot Catholic High School, Fort Anyone interested can contact Myers. Registration details will be Andy Durette, 508-641-2074 or Andy Wallach, 840 S. Collier Blvd. #1002, Marco, FL 34145 forthcoming. COMMUNITY [email protected]. Mardi Gras Madness, Feb. English for Speakers of 9, 2016, 6 p.m., Michael’s on EVENTS Other Languages (ESOL). Name ______East, Sarasota. Proceeds benefit The Family Resource Center of Bethesda House, a program “Spirit of Christmas” holiday Catholic Charities in Naples is of Catholic Charities Diocese concert, Dec. 11, 4 p.m., Our Lady looking for volunteers to teach Address ______of Venice Inc., which provides of Mount Carmel Parish, 425 S. ESOL twice a week, 5-7 p.m., professional and compassionate Tamiami Trail, Osprey. Tickets: $25, for six months. Materials will be ______Phone ______support services for those with in the Parish. 941-966-0807. provided. Allegra Belliard, allegra@ HIV/AIDS. Cocktail hour, auctions, Natural family planning catholiccharitiescc.org, 239-793- Mardi Gras festivities, dinner class, Jan. 10, 2016, St. Raphael 0059. Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic YOUR VENICE COMMUNITY 8 Holy Door of Mercy closed until Dec. 13

BoB Reddy bricks as a symbolic reminder of In speaking of the Year of Mer- of any punishment due to sins. of the Florida Catholic staff the barrier of sin between human FYI cy, Pope Francis said the Holy In addition to going to the Holy beings and God. Arranging a pilgrimage Door represents a symbolic pil- Door, to receive the indulgence Venice | With the fast-ap- Unique to this Year of Mercy is Those wanting to take a pilgrim- grimage, the journey each of us one must meet a number of con- proaching Extraordinary Jubilee that Pope Francis has requested age to either Holy Door of Mercy are makes in life. “May this pilgrim- ditions within seven days prior Year of Mercy there is one key that there will be a Holy Door of encouraged to call ahead of time. age be an impetus to conver- or seven days following. They in- component that has access for ev- Mercy in every Diocese in the For Epiphany Cathedral, call 941- sion; by crossing the threshold of clude: receiving the Holy Eucha- eryone: the Holy Door of Mercy. world, specifically at their Cathe- 484-3505; for Our Lady of Mercy the Holy Door, we will find the rist; partaking in the Sacrament The Year of Mercy officially begins drals and also at expressly desig- Parish, call 941-964-2254. strength to embrace God’s mercy of Reconciliation; and praying for Dec. 8 and continues until Nov. nated churches. These doors are and dedicate ourselves to be mer- the intentions of the Holy Father. 20, 2016, the Solemnity of Christ available locally in order to allow ciful with others as the Father has Giving the greatest amount of the King. the faithful in every part of the with the First Sunday of Advent, been with us.” This applies to sites consideration to those who may At the beginning of a Holy Year world to experience the mercy of and should remind the faithful throughout the world. be unable to walk through a Holy on Dec. 8, Pope Francis will open the Father in its fullness. that while they are preparing dur- Within the Diocese of Venice Door, Pope Francis allows the the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Ba- In preparation for the coming of ing Advent for the coming of the there will be two locations: Epiph- granting of the indulgences to silica at the Vatican to signal the the Jubilee Year of Mercy, a special Lord, they should also prepare for any Cathedral and Our Lady of shut-ins who perhaps may only inauguration of a special year door was closed at Epiphany Cathe- the upcoming Year of Mercy. Mercy Parish in Boca Grande. The be able to participate in the Mass of grace and pardon. When the dral in Venice on the First Sunday Bishop Frank J. Dewane ex- Boca Grande Parish was selected through electronic media. He Holy Door is opened, Pope Fran- of Advent (Nov. 29). As instructed plained that the closed door calls because it holds the name of Our similarly granted this consider- cis said, it “will become a Door of by the Holy Father, this door, which our attention to think and prepare Lady of Mercy. ation to those who are incarcer- Mercy through which anyone who leads to the south entrance of the to receive the Lord’s mercy. “Look As an important element of ated. Both groups are encouraged enters will experience the love of Cathedral, will remain closed until at mercy in your own life, how the Year of Mercy, the faithful are to fulfill the other requirements to God who consoles, pardons and the Third Sunday of Advent (Dec. you express it,” Bishop Dewane encouraged to visit any of the pil- the best of their ability. instills hope.” 13), when all other Holy Doors added. “Find a way to see within grimage churches and go through In the context of the Jubilee The Holy Door at the Vatican across the world will be opened the expression of mercy the pres- the Holy Door of Mercy to fulfill Year, the Holy Father went even is located to the right of St. Peter with a solemn rite. ence of Christ. In the word of the one of the necessary acts to re- further by stating the indulgence Basilica’s main entrance; between The closing of the door at Lord, hear the mercy measured ceive a plenary indulgence. This could also be assigned by the re- Holy Years it remains sealed with Epiphany Cathedral coincided out to us.” indulgence imparts full remission cipient to a deceased person. n

Newsbriefs Priceless parenting key element of the day will be to Dinner supports in their journey, many of them fi- Choice,” the first-ever Peace River offer specific ways to be a Catholic nancial,” said Jean-Paul Bouchard, Walk 4 Life raised awareness and workshop Jan. 9 parent in a digital society. Diocesan vocations Knight and parish business man- funds to support the Pregnancy To help parents and grandpar- “By the time this day is done, our To support those seeking a voca- ager. “The Knights at St. John the Careline Center of Port Charlotte, ents who face enormous challenges hope and prayer is that they will be tion to the priesthood, the Knights Evangelist have made a long and the only pregnancy resource center while trying to raise 21st-century the first and best teachers of their of Columbus Council 11281 at St. significant commitment to the in Charlotte County. children in a loving Catholic en- children as they have been called John the Evangelist Parish in Na- seminarians in their journey.” The walk took place Nov. 28, vironment, the Diocese of Venice to be as Catholic parents,” Jim said. ples hosted an annual vocations The Knights later presented 8 a.m.-noon, at Laishley Park in Family Life Office will offer a one- Cost is $20 per couple and in- dinner Nov. 20, which included live Bishop Dewane and Father Eric Punta Gorda. Teams of walkers day “Priceless Parenting” workshop cludes materials and lunch. The and silent auctions, . Bishop Frank J. Scanlan, Diocesan Vocations Di- represented several area parishes. Jan. 9, 2016, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at St John day concludes with Mass. To regis- Dewane was the guest of honor. rector, with a check as part of their The guest speakers included local XXIII Parish, 13060 Palomino Lane, ter, visit www.dioceseofvenice.org/ Through the years, the council ongoing commitment to the priest- officials as well as pro-life advocate Fort Myers. parenting. For questions, con- has contributed more than $100,000 hood. Pam Stenzel. Jeanne Berdeaux, Di- Jim and Maureen Otremba who tact Kim Elsmore at elsmore@ to assist seminarians of the Diocese ocesan Respect Life Director, sent have been married since 1995 and dioceseofvenice.org or 941-484- of Venice. “Those who are called to Walking for life greetings from Bishop Frank J. De- have been part-time, stay-at-home 9543. serve make significant sacrifices Titled “Always a Life-Giving wane. parents since 1999, will lead the event. The couple, who both hold master’s degrees in Catholic theology, are frequent presenters of retreats and workshops for couples, deacons and their wives, and lay ministers around the United States. “The entire day will be based on a specific way to find self-love based on the Commandment ‘love your neighbor as you love yourself,’” • Basics of arthritis pain Jim Otremba said. “We will provide • Surgical and non-surgical treatment insight into origin of the family • Minimall invasive surgical treatment and help families heal past hurts. • Anterior Hip Replacement We offer a highly effective disci- pline model — without raising your • What to expect before, during and after surgery hands or voices — as well as how to • Partial and ACL sparing knee replacement provide the seven needs of children Visit jointimplant.com for seminar dates and to reserve your seat. that must be met, all to help develop the mind, body and soul.” Backed up by foundational Cath- Board Certified (AOBOS) Orthopedic Surgeon olic theology, the Otrembas will Specializing in Joint Replacement and Reconstruction of the Hip and Knee also offer an overview of Christ- based human sexuality, a how-to on talking with children at differ- 34054-1204 ent developmental stages using the 34759-1204 Theology of the Body and the Book of Genesis as their basis. Another 9 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015

BISHOPS meetIng Pornography, politics statements take center stage CatholiC News serviCe The U.S. Conference of Catho- ish city, connected World Youth Day SAINTHOOD CAUSES lic Bishops met in the shadow of with the Year of Mercy. BALTIMORE | The U.S. bishops the Nov. 13 terror attacks in Paris. Citing young altar servers’ weak approved a formal statement on Auxiliary Bishop Eusebio Elizondo arms and older priests’ weak eyes, pornography and additions to their of Seattle, chairman of the USCCB the U.S. bishops approved an adapt- quadrennial statement on political Committee on Migration, issued a ed version of the Roman Missal to be responsibility at their Nov. 16-19 fall statement Nov. 17 from the floor of used during the times at Mass when general meeting in Baltimore. The the meeting. the celebrant is seated, subject to votes were made during the public “I am disturbed,” Bishop Elizon- Vatican approval. The bishops en- portion of the meeting, which ran do said, “by calls from both federal dorsed “Excerpts From the Roman Nov. 16-17. The bishops met in ex- and state officials for an end to the Missal: Book for Use at the Chair” ecutive session Nov. 18-19. resettlement of Syrian refugees in by a 187-27 vote, with three absten- The 2015 version of political re- the United States” in the wake of the tions. sponsibility document, “Forming attacks. “These refugees are fleeing Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory of Consciences for Faithful Citizen- terror themselves — violence like we Atlanta used the opportunity to ask ship,” passed 210-21 with five ab- have witnessed in Paris.” whether there would be an oppor- stentions, and a separate vote on He added, “Moreover, refugees tunity “to examine the reception” the statement’s introductory note to this country must pass security by both Catholics in the pew and by passed 217-16 with two abstentions; checks and multiple interviews be- priests of the new Mass translations two-thirds of diocesan bishops, or fore entering the United States — that came into use four years ago. 181 votes, were needed for passage. more than any arrival to the United “There are many wonderful things Some bishops said the document States. It can take up to two years for in the new translation, but some does not adequately address pov- a refugee to pass through the whole inconsistencies too,” he said. He erty, as Pope Francis has asked the vetting process. We can look at called on his fellow bishops to “look Church to do. The most vocal critic strengthening the already stringent at improving, adjusting, amending BALTIMORE | The U.S. bishops Nov. encouragement for people with this kind was Bishop Robert W. McElroy of screening program, but we should the text.” 17 endorsed the sainthood causes of a of disability (and) reminds us of the great San Diego, who said because pov- continue to welcome those in des- A proposal for a one-time nation- Spanish missionary regarded as a mystic generosity of his family and his religious erty and the environment did not perate need.” al collection in 2017 to fund comple- who served in the American Southwest, a community — as they were all called to receive the same priority as abortion Dominican Sister Donna tion of the artwork in the central Native American and his companions who holiness” in their care for him. and euthanasia, some people might Markham, president and CEO of dome of the Basilica of the National were martyred in colonial Florida, and a Young Atkinson was an Augustin- “misuse” the document and claim Catholic Charities USA, told the Shrine of the Immaculate Con- Pennsylvania native who in 1974 became ian novice when he broke his spine in other issues did not carry the same bishops Catholic Charities has been ception in Washington squeaked the first quadriplegic priest to be ordained a tobogganing accident that left him a moral weight. sent “disturbing mail from people through Nov. 17. Needing 132 votes for the Catholic Church. quadriplegic and seemingly ended his The pornography statement, angry that we are trying to help — two-thirds of diocesan and ep- The bishops’ action came in a voice dream to become a priest. But eight years “Create in Me a Clean Heart: A Pas- these people. It’s tragic.” She added archial bishops — to pass, the pro- vote at the end of a canonically required later, Pope Paul VI granted permission for toral Response to Pornography,” of the Syrian refugees, “We’re ready posal was adopted 135-31 with four consultation that took place the second him to be ordained. Archbishop Chaput states “producing or using pornog- to help — if we can get them here.” abstentions. day of their bishops’ annual fall general said Father Atkinson went on to teach raphy is gravely wrong” and is a In his USCCB presidential ad- No cost estimate was given for the assembly in Baltimore. Their endorse- in Catholic schools in the Philadelphia “mortal sin” if committed with de- dress Nov. 16, Archbishop Joseph work, but Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl ment was needed for the causes to move Archdiocese. He died in 2006 at age 60. liberate consent and urges Catholics E. Kurtz of Louisville, Ky., called on of Washington said $4.2 million had forward. Regarding Cuipa and his companions, to turn away from it. Approval of the his fellow bishops Nov. 16 to imitate already been raised in pledges and The three sainthood candidates are Bishop Gregory L. Parkes of Pensacola- statement came on a vote of 230-4 the “pastor’s presence” exhibited cash “and we are awaiting respons- Father Aloysius Ellacuria, a Claretian Tallahassee, told the bishops the group with one abstention. by Pope Francis during his recent es on an additional $3 million in re- Missionary priest; Antonia Cuipa and more should be viewed as “martyrs of evange- Bishop Richard J. Malone of Buf- U.S. visit, “touching the hearts of the quests and have identified another than 80 companions; and Augustinian lization who gave their lives to share and falo, N.Y., chairman of the bishops’ most influential, the forgotten and $1 million” in potential funding. Father William Atkinson. live the Gospel in colonial Florida.” He said the group includes men, women and Committee on Laity, Marriage, all of us in between.” On Nov. 16, the bishops discussed Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez Family Life and Youth, described Noting the upcoming Year of how the U.S. Catholic Church can presented the cause of Father Ellacuria, a nine children; 61 are Native Americans, like Cuipa. pornography as a “dark shadow in Mercy that begins Dec. 8, Archbish- move forward in response to the Su- 20th-century priest from the Basque re- our world today.” He added por- op Kurtz said a ministry of “pres- preme Court’s ruling on same-sex gion of Spain whose ministry was primarily An Apalachee Indian converted by in Los Angeles, San Diego and Phoenix. Franciscans, Cuipa lived at the San Luis nography is a “particularly sinister ence means making time and never marriage this year. To that end, the The priest, who died in 1981, founded Mission in present-day Tallahassee. He and instance of consumption” where letting administration come be- bishops are planning to develop a a religious congregation named the the others were martyred between 1549 men, women and children are “con- tween me and the person. It’s seeing pastoral plan for marriage and fam- Missionaries of Perpetual Adoration, later and 1706. Cuipa was studying for the sumed for the pleasure of others.” the person first.” ily life. The pastoral plan, according referred to as the Missionaries of Fatima, priesthood when he was seized by another The bishops approved a budget From entering a diocesan Holy to Bishop Malone, will seek the bish- reflecting his devotion to the message of Indian band, nailed to a cross and set afire for the work of their national confer- Door to undertaking the corporal ops’ input. Our Lady of Fatima. He was known for in 1704. Witnesses said Cuipa had a vision ence in 2016, but their vote was in- and spiritual works of mercy, Catho- A 2017 convocation for Catholic spending long periods of time visiting and of Mary while he was dying. conclusive on a proposed 3 percent lics can model a compassionate life leaders represents “a new way of consoling the sick and dying, and also is Choosing a Native American as “the increase in 2017 to the assessment during the Year of Mercy declared reaching and teaching our people,” described as having an extraordinary gift lead martyr reflects not only the sacrifice on dioceses funding the conference. by Pope Francis, said the chairman Bishop Malone said in a presenta- for attracting vocations. and success of the missionaries, but will Bishop Kevin J. Farrell of Dallas, of the USCCB Committee on Evan- tion to his fellow bishops. The na- In presenting the cause of Father also highlight the many Native Ameri- USCCB treasurer and chairman of gelization and Catechesis. tional convocation, planned for Wilkinson, Archbishop Charles J. Chaput cans — over 1,000 — killed for the faith the bishops’ Committee on Budget The jubilee period, from Dec. 8 July 1-4, 2017, in Orlando, will have of Philadelphia said his is a “ beautiful” whose names are lost in history,” said and Finance, argued the assessment through Nov. 13, 2016, can be ob- the theme “The Joy of the Gospel in story and his cause “would be a source of Bishop Parkes. n increase was necessary. “As we have served in many different ways that America.” seen between 2008 and 2009, we allow every Catholic to be a “cred- Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio should not have our fates so heav- ible witness to mercy,” Archbishop painted a dire picture of “a pasto- ily dependent on financial mar- Leonard P. Blair of Hartford, Conn., ral problem” in a report to his fel- kets over which we have no control said Nov. 17. low bishops about the “desperate” whatsoever,” he added. Bishop Frank J. Caggiano of shortage of Catholic priests serving The bishops approved priorities Bridgeport, Conn., in a Nov. 17 pre- as military chaplains. The head of and strategic plans for 2017-20 in a sentation, said 13,000 people were the U.S. Archdiocese for the Mili- 233-4 vote Nov. 17. The document registered for World Youth Day, to be tary Services said there were only emphasizes five major areas: evan- held July 25-31 in Krakow, Poland, 217 Catholic priests serving the 1.8 gelization; family and marriage; with U.S. registration expected to million Catholics in the U.S. armed human life and dignity; religious top 30,000. Pope Francis, in inviting forces around the world, and the freedom; and vocations and ongo- young people and young adults to numbers would soon decline due ing formation. the celebration n the southern Pol- to retirements and medical leaves.n Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic QUICK READS 10

Florida for refugees and their families. preventing children from low- and victims. “Words are a privileged affect the image of Pope Francis. After police raided a Saint-Denis middle-income minority families instrument for the authorities to But there will certainly be public apartment for terrorists Nov. 18, from better educational opportuni- engage citizens, and the citizenry pressure.” Earlier, the OSCE’s me- Bishop Estévez Villalobos embraced concerns oth- ties than what may be available in includes those who are criminals dia freedom representative, Dunja ers had for her. “Every time I hear public schools, amounting to dis- as well,” he said. Mijatovic, called on the Vatican to dedicate shrine about airstrikes being launched in crimination, the archbishop of At- to drop charges against Gianluigi in High Springs Syria, I send text messages to refu- lanta told a U.N. committee meet- Media monitors Nuzzi and Emiliano Fittipaldi. gees and ask them if they’ve been ing in Geneva. The two are among five accused HIGH SPRINGS | Bishop Felipe able to reach their families out In remarks to the Committee criticize ‘Vatileaks’ of involvement in leaking and pub- Estévez will dedicate the Santa Fe there. This week, we switched po- on the Elimination of Racial Dis- trial of journalists lishing confidential documents Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at sition: It’s the refugees themselves crimination, Archbishop Wilton about finances in the Vatican, St. Madeline Sophie Parish Dec. 5, who texted me, when Saint-Denis D. Gregory argued Nov. 24 that OXFORD, England | Media which criminalized the release of beginning with Mass open to the was being raided by the police. Just the so-called Blaine amendments monitors at the 57-country Organi- “news and documents” in July 2013. public at 4 p.m. The church and to make sure that I was OK. Such violate the basic human right to zation for Security and Cooperation Vrang said Vatican claims that the shrine are located at 17155 N.W. solidarity is just priceless,” she school choice and that nations are in Europe condemned the Vatican’s journalists had exerted undue pres- U.S. Highway 441 in High Springs. said. required to end all barriers to pa- trial of two journalists and urged sure on their informants were “only The devotion to Our Lady of La Villalobos, who works daily with rental choice in education. the Holy See to honor its interna- rumors,” and he said the Holy See Leche has special significance in refugees, said people must not Blaine amendments prohibit tional press freedom commitments. was expected to respond to interna- the Diocese of St. Augustine, which classify refugees as terrorists and the use of state funds at sectarian “Our main concern is for the tional criticisms at a Nov. 26 session encompasses 17 counties of north realize the refugees are actually schools. They are named for Rep. protection of confidential sources of the OSCE’s Permanent Council. Florida. fleeing the violence of those radi- James G. Blaine, R-Maine, who as — this is a pillar of investigative The New York-based Committee to From the time Spanish explor- cals.” “To us, it’s pure nonsense to speaker of the U.S. House of Rep- journalism,” said Gunnar Vrang, Protect Journalists also criticized ers established the town of St. Au- believe that jihadists might mingle resentatives in 1875 proposed such spokesman for the Vienna-based the trial. In a Nov. 23 statement, it gustine in 1565, they brought with with refugees and submit them- an amendment to the U.S. Consti- OSCE’s Media Freedom Office. “I said journalists “should be allowed them a particular devotion to the selves to that long, awful and hor- tution. While the amendment over- can’t speculate on whether we’d to carry out their role as watchdog Blessed Mother. The first Mass of rific journey on sea and land, to- whelmingly passed in the House, it bring intergovernmental pressure and investigate alleged wrongdoing Thanksgiving was celebrated in St. ward Europe. Many people have failed by four votes in the Senate. to bear, or on how this case may without fear of repression.” Augustine Sept. 8, 1565, the feast died while trying to get across the of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mediterranean. Do you sincerely Mary. Shortly after, a devotion to believe that any jihadist would be W Orld Nuestra Señora de La Leche y Buen willing to take such a risk? It’s just Parto — Our Lady of the Milk and pure nonsense,” she said. “The Church promotes Happy Delivery — began. Muslims that are being accompa- This devotion has been kept nied by Jesuit Refugee Service are peace in violent alive at the oldest Marian shrine friendly, highly critical of their own in the United States — the Shrine country. They even criticize Islam Guerrero state of Our Lady of La Leche, which was itself.” ACAPULCO, Mexico | Fa- established in St. Augustine in the ther Adolfo Silva Pita celebrates a early 1600s. Pilgrims who visit seek Dorothy Day’s monthly memorial Mass for the the Blessed Mother’s intercession deceased in a lower-middle-class for a safe delivery of their child, for granddaughter neighborhood on the outskirts of the gift of fertility, for those seek- speaks out this tourist town, once famous for ing to strengthen their faith and sun, fun and celebrities, but no- for many other special intentions. DERWOOD, Md. | Although torious now for drugs, crime and In 2012, the Holy See granted Martha Hennessy is soft-spoken, killings. Father Silva, pastor of Our a petition by Bishop Estévez for she likely sounds just like her ac- Lady of Fatima Parish in a working- a feast in honor of Our Lady of La tivist grandmother Dorothy Day class neighborhood, said the Mass Leche to be inserted into the local when talking about helping the imparts “a message of comfort, liturgical calendar for the Diocese poor and promoting peace. Hen- hope and peace” for families who of St. Augustine each year on Oct. nessy spoke about such topics and have lost loved ones, often in vio- 11. It is a place for pilgrimage and the influence and memories of her lent acts. spiritual renewal. grandmother, who is a candidate The families also ask for indi- The Santa Fe shrine is located for sainthood, at St. Francis of As- vidual memorial Masses, he said, on an 18-acre property that is ideal sisi in Derwood. “but there’s a list of more than 400 for silent prayer and contempla- Her observations, to a group names.” Such is the seriousness of tion, and includes a walking trail of about 50 people sitting at long the security situation in many of with many devotional opportu- cafeteria tables, were not just the Acapulco’s working-class bar- nities for pilgrims. There is also a sentimental musings but chal- rios, far from the well-protected Marian grotto, outdoor Stations of lenges, stressing, for example, tourist strip. Extortion and kidnap the Cross, memorial garden and that Catholics have a responsibil- can be common. Acapulco record- cemetery on the property. ity to respond to violence, poverty ed 29 murders in a four-day period St. Madeline Sophie Parish is and wars. She also spoke candidly earlier in November, while at least located close to I-75. For more in- about her grandmother, noting 50 schools closed due to security formation, call St. Madeline Sophie that even though Day was quoted concerns. Parish at 386-454-2358 or email as saying: “Don’t call me a saint. I The city reflects the wider secu- [email protected]. don’t want to be dismissed so eas- rity concerns in the state of Guer- ily,” she is pretty sure her grand- rero, which includes Acapulco. The mother is “great with the idea” now. state is known for the kidnapping nation She said the Church needs Day’s and presumed killing of 43 teacher example as a laywoman, mother trainees in 2014, and is making Aid worker finds and grandmother who lived her headlines again for slayings and faith intentionally. Day’s influence shootings, including 12 dead after tables turned on Hennessy, 60, is palpable. “She gunmen burst into a clandestine has played a role in every decision cockfighting ring earlier in Novem- with refugees in my life,” Hennessy told the group. ber. Bishops in Guerrero responded MONTREAL | Marcella Villalo- to the insecurity and to the inaugu- bos Cid, 36, lives in Saint-Denis, a Archbishop: ration of a new governor with a Nov. working-class neighborhood in the 1 pastoral letter calling for dialogue north end of Paris, with her hus- School choice is and prioritizing attention to victims 34853-1204 band and daughter. In her job as human right of violence. Archbishop Carlos Gar- coordinator for Jesuit Refugee Ser- fias Merlo told reporters Nov. 3 that vice’s hospitality network, Villalo- GENEVA | Amendments to the the dialogue and attention should bos often finds herself concerned constitutions of some U.S. states are include the victimizers, not just the 11 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015 Bishop disturbed by calls to end resettlement of Syrian refugees in U.S. Catholic News Service In a statement issued Nov. 17 dur- zens, Bishop Elizondo said refugees ing the bishops’ general assembly in “must pass security checks and BALTIMORE | The head of the Baltimore, Bishop Elizondo offered multiple interviews before entering U.S. bishops’ Committee on Migra- condolences to the French people, the United States — more than any tion said he was disturbed by calls especially families of the victims of arrival to the United States. It can from federal and state officials for the Nov. 13 attacks in Paris in which take up to two years for a refugee an end to the resettlement of Syrian at least 129 people were killed and to pass through the whole vetting refugees in the United States. hundreds were injured. He said he process. We can look at strengthen- “These refugees are fleeing terror supported “all who are working to ing the already stringent screening themselves — violence like we have ensure such attacks do not occur program, but we should continue to witnessed in Paris,” said Seattle again — both in France and around welcome those in desperate need.” Auxiliary Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, the world.” He urged public officials to work chairman of the migration commit- But addressing calls from some together to end the conflict in Syria tee. “They are extremely vulnerable governors and federal officials so the country’s nearly 4 million families, women and children who — including House Speaker Paul refugees can return home. “Until are fleeing for their lives. We cannot Ryan, R-Wisconsin — to pause or that goal is achieved, we must work and should not blame them for the halt refugee resettlement until the with the world community to pro- actions of a terrorist organization.” U.S. can ensure the safety of its citi- vide safe haven to vulnerable and Refugees wait on the Syrian side of the border near Sanliurfa, Turkey, deserving refugees who are simply June 10. Bishop Eusebio Elizondo, chairman of the U.S. Conference of attempting to survive. As a great na- Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration, says the United States should tion, the United States must show welcome refugees and work for peace. (SEDAT/SUNA, EPA | CNS) leadership during this crisis and bring nations together to protect gees for the Paris Attacks.” refusing to welcome the stranger those in danger and bring an end “The refugees are not ISIS,” it and failing to work together toward to the conflicts in the Middle East,” said, referring to them as allies in a solution to this refugee crisis only he said. the fight against Islamic State. aids our enemies,” Hill wrote. “We In a separate statement, Bishop The column, by Michael Hill, understand the fear many Ameri- Thomas J. Tobin of Providence, CRS senior writer, noted: “Since the can people, including members of R.I., said although refugees’ back- Syrian Civil War began in 2011, it’s our Catholic population, have that grounds must be checked carefully, estimated that more than 250,000 the senseless violence perpetrated “it would be wrong for our nation people have died. Countless homes in Paris, Beirut, and so many other and our state to refuse to accept and places of work have been de- places will find its way here. But as refugees simply because they are stroyed. Refugees arriving in Eu- followers of Christ, we cannot allow Syrian or Muslim.” rope have recounted in horrific our attitudes and our actions to be “Too often in the past, however, detail the atrocities they witnessed overtaken by this fear.” our nation has erroneously targeted within their homeland. As one In her Nov. 17 report to the bish- individuals as dangerous simply mother told us, ‘You wouldn’t put ops about the work of Catholic because of their nationality or re- a child on this boat unless it’s safer Charities USA, Dominican Sister ligion,” the bishop said. “In these than your home. Imagine this des- Donna Markham, the organiza- turbulent times, it is important that peration. We have nothing to lose.’ tion’s president and CEO, said the prudence not be replaced by hyste- These people should not be blamed refugee crisis is serious and Catho-

32821-1204 ria.” for the actions of an extremist fringe lic Charities agencies want to do The U.S. bishops’ international group like ISIS. If anything, the Par- what they can to welcome these relief and development agency, is attacks should increase our sym- refugees in the United States. Catholic Relief Services, empha- pathy for their plight.” She said she has met with White sized how carefully refugees are “While we recognize legitimate House officials about this, but she vetted in a five-point post called “5 security concerns, our leaders and has also seen a negative reaction Reasons Not to Punish Syrian Refu- politicians must understand that to the agency’s offer to help with “disturbing mail” sent from people who don’t want the refugees in this country. “We’re ready to help, if we LEWIS can get them here,” she said, stress- & COMPANY ing that Catholic Charities agencies represent the Church’s ministry that Pope Francis described as a Learn Rosary Making field hospital.

Contact us for a catalog and introductory offer. 33016-1204 During a Nov. 17 news conference at the bishops’ meeting in Bal- rosaryparts.com • 1-800-342-2400 timore, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, CRS board chairman, pointed out that the violent attack that took place in Paris is “precisely the brutality these refugees are fleeing.” Rather than “further victimize the victims,” he called on Catholics and Americans — “as a nation of immigrants” — to treat Syrian refugees with “a certain compassion and understanding.” n

34682-1204 Contributing to this story was Carol Zimmermann. Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS 12 Shooting at Colorado clinic antithesis of pro-life movement

Veronica Ambuul Dear was scheduled to appear at that Planned Parenthood, all Catholic News Service in court Nov. 30. of their lives are precious and According to The Gazette dai- worth saving,” he said. “All of COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. ly newspaper, Dear previously them are loved by God and de- | A priest who celebrates Mass lived in South Carolina and serve our prayers. I am sickened every Friday morning on a side- North Carolina and had arrest by the violence there today just walk near the Planned Parent- records in both states. Voting as I am sickened by the violence hood clinic targeted by a lone records show that Dear main- there every day.” gunman Nov. 27 said the shoot- tains a residence in Hartsel, a Judie Brown, president of er’s actions were the antithesis small town about 120 miles west American Life League, said that of the pro-life cause. of Colorado Springs, The Gazette “despite aggressive attempts of “We want the conversion of reported. some news media to tie this bru- Planned Parenthood, not their “Yesterday, our community tal and egregious act to pro-life destruction,” said Father Bill experienced an act of pure evil causes, there is no evidence sup- Carmody, the longtime respect at the local Planned Parenthood porting their case — and these life director for the Diocese of clinic,” Bishop Michael J. Sheri- attempts are simply irrespon- Colorado Springs. “The pro-life dan of Colorado Springs said in sible.” movement has no place for vio- a statement. “As Pope Francis “We abhor and condemn all lence.” recently reminded us, ‘The path acts of terrorism, all acts of sav- The attack on the clinic in of violence and hate can never agery against the innocent — northwest Colorado Springs left solve the problems of human- born and preborn — and we call three people dead, including a ity.’” upon our fellow Americans to do police officer, and nine others The National Right to Life likewise,” she said in a Nov. 30 wounded. The clinic reported Committee’s president, Carol statement. that none of its employees or pa- Tobias, said her organization Brown urged people to “to tients was among those killed or “unequivocally condemns un- look beneath the surface of es- seriously wounded in the Black lawful activities and acts of vio- calating violence in this nation” Friday attack. lence regardless of motivation. to see that “the violent act” of The clinic sits near a busy The pro-life movement works surgical abortion is at the root of shopping center that includes a to protect the right to life and it, which “the media ignores.” n grocery store, a bank and sev- increase respect for human life. eral other businesses. After the The unlawful use of violence is attack broke out around 11:30 directly contrary to that goal.” a.m., local time, patrons and Bryan Kemper, youth out- employees of the businesses reach director for Priests for Life “sheltered in place” for nearly six and founder of Stand True, said hours while police tried to con- in a Nov. 27 statement that “al- tain the alleged shooter, Robert though we do not know the de- Lewis Dear, 57. The standoff tails behind the gun violence at ended with Dear’s arrest at 4:52 Planned Parenthood in Colora- p.m., local time. do, it is important to say that we Among those killed was Gar- are against all violence against rett Swasey, a police officer at our fellow human persons.” the University of Colorado at “From the abortionist, the Colorado Springs and father of workers, the patients, the chil- two. dren scheduled to die or anyone The clinic is the frequent site of prayer vigils and other activities, in addition to the pro-life * Masses, leading several national FLEXIBLE PREMIUM media outlets to speculate that Dear was a member of the pro- 5% DEFERRED IRA ANNUITY life movement. However, Father Carmody *First Year Bonus Rate is Guaranteed. Rate may vary thereafter said he did not recall ever hav- - current rate 3%. Non-IRA Annuities also qualify for First Year Bonus Rate ing seen or spoken to Dear. On CHFS Annuities have: the day of the shootings, he had celebrated his usual weekly • Tax deferred accumulations Mass, but he said that he and • No sales or service charges others in attendance departed shortly afterward because of the • No administration fees or sales commissions snowstorm hitting the region. • 100% of the premium goes to work for you immediately! “We were long gone” before the attack started, Father Car- Contact our Annuity Department. mody told The Colorado Catholic Learn more at 1-800-240-2554. Herald, the diocesan newspaper of Colorado Springs.

Others who regularly pray outside the clinic also said they did not recall seeing Dear at any pro-life events. 2021 Mascoutah Ave., Belleville, IL 62220 34793-1204 Law enforcement officials 1-800-240-2554 • chfsociety.org would not discuss a motive for 33778-1204 the shootings because their in- Catholic Holy Family Society is a member-owned life insurance company providing sound vestigation was still underway. financial products for more than a century. 13 POPE in AFRICA Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015 Pope defends rights of poor, denounces tribalism

Cindy Wooden Akwede, a resident, told the pope, random combination of unrelated Children Catholic News Service “People in informal settlements problems,” he said; they are “the wait for live together as family, in unity and consequence of new forms of colo- Pope Francis’ solidarity,” which is evident in the nialism,” which see African coun- arrival NAIROBI, Kenya | The wealth of celebrations of births, weddings tries as “cogs on a gigantic wheel” outside a residents of the poorest neighbor- and funerals. and a storehouse of natural re- Catholic hoods ringing big cities around the “Any resident of any informal set- sources to plunder. African nations, parish in the world will never be quoted on the tlement survives on less than a dol- he said, “are frequently pressured to Kangemi stock exchange, even though their lar a day,” she said, but fresh fruits adopt policies typical of the culture slum on the wealth gives life and joy to millions are available and “one can get their of waste, like those aimed at lower- outskirts of people, Pope Francis said. stomach full on a cup of tea and ing the birth rate.” of Nairobi, The pope began his day Nov. 27 doughnut” for the equivalent of 19 Pope Francis denounced the ri- Kenya, Nov. in Nairobi’s Kangemi neighbor- cents. Most of the people in Kange- diculously high rent that absentee 27. (Paul hood, usually referred to as a slum. mi and the other slums of Nairobi landlords charge for “utterly unfit Haring It features tiny dwellings made work in factories, Akwede said, but housing” in the slum. He also in- | CNS) of cinder block, tin or reclaimed they do not earn enough to pay for sisted that governments have an boards. The homes are jumbled rent in a better neighborhood. obligation to ensure their citizens together with dirt roads and paths Pope Francis told the people have “toilets, sewers, drains, refuse running between them. gathered in the church he had an collection, electricity” and access to Residents were thrilled not only obligation to denounce the injustic- schools, hospitals and open space infectious celebration; the Kenyan sai and other ethnic groups. that the pope would take time to es that keep the slum dwellers living for recreation. To a strong round bishops started line dancing after People need to listen to each oth- visit them, but that the government in such desperate circumstances, of applause, the pope also insisted the youths did. Kenyan President er, ask each other about their his- fixed several of the roads, installed but he also urged the people to rec- that access to drinking water be Uhuru Kenyatta and his wife ar- tory and customs, open their hearts some street lights and unblocked ognize the values they have and provided in the slums. “Access to rived, going to the head of the line, to one another and extend a hand in some water pipes in preparation for that the world needs: Solidarity, safe, drinkable water is a basic and dancing as they went to their seats. friendship. the pope’s visit. Exact figures vary, celebration, taking care to bury the universal human right,” he said. A young woman and young man He called his young questioners but between 55 percent and 65 per- dead, making more room at one’s The pope gave special recogni- asked Pope Francis questions and, to the podium and took their hands. cent of Nairobi’s population live in simple table and taking in the sick tion to the women of Kangemi and as they spoke, the pope took notes. Then he asked the estimated 70,000 the slums. Many have no drinking all are characteristic of people in the other informal settlements. In the end, he set aside his prepared young people who filled the stadi- water, electricity, sewage system or the world’s poorest neighborhoods. They make heroic efforts not only text and answered their questions, um to hold hands as well. “We are regular garbage collection. Such values, he said, are to feed their children, but to protect particularly regarding the problems all a nation,” he had them say. “No Irish Mercy Sister Mary Killeen, “grounded in the fact that each hu- them from violence, crime and ad- of tribalism and corruption. “Trib- to tribalism.” who has ministered in Kenya for man being is more important than diction — all plagues common in alism destroys a nation,” he said. He urged the young people to three decades, told Pope Francis the god of money. Thank you for the slums. The corrupt, he said, use “Tribalism is keeping your hands have nothing to do with cheating that fires — especially from kero- reminding us that another type of young people “as cannon fodder for behind your back and holding in or corruption, even compared cor- sene lamps and stoves — and floods culture is possible.” While those their ruthless business affairs.” each hand a rock to throw at others.” ruption to sugar: It tastes good at are a danger. Evictions are frequent values “are not quoted in the stock From Kangemi, Pope Francis “The ear, the heart and the hand” first and it’s easy to get, but it also since the people do not own the exchange,” Pope Francis said, they went to Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadi- are needed to overcome tribalism, can make people sick. All institu- land on which their shacks are built. are the true “signs of good living.” um for a meeting with the nation’s the pope told the young people, in- tions have people tempted by cor- At a meeting in the Jesuit-run St. But the problems faced in the young people. The atmosphere cluding many who were dressed in ruption, the pope said, “including Joseph the Worker Church, Pamella makeshift communities “are not a was charged with excitement and the traditional costumes of the Ma- the Vatican.” n In civil conflicts ‘Counter violence with love’ Cindy Wooden he used both hands and his body believer serenity, courage and the communities. The pope publicly Catholic News Service weight to push open the Holy Door strength to persevere in good amid expressed “closeness and solidar- of the cathedral. The main open- the greatest hardships.” ity to Pastor Nicolas, whose home BANGUI, Central African Re- ing of the Year of Mercy will be Dec. “To all those who make unjust was recently ransacked and set on public | Put down the weapons of 8 at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. use of the weapons of this world, I fire, as was the meeting place of war and work for justice, Pope Fran- Marking the first Sunday of Ad- make this appeal: Lay down these his community. In these difficult cis urged the people of the Central vent at the Mass with priests, reli- instruments of death! Arm your- circumstances, the Lord keeps ask- African Republic. “Even when gious, catechists and youths, Pope selves instead with righteousness, ing us to demonstrate to everyone the powers of hell are unleashed, Francis urged the Catholic commu- with love and mercy, the authentic his tenderness, compassion and Christians must rise to the sum- nity to be committed to helping the guarantors of peace,” the pope said. mercy.” mons, their heads held high, and be country make a new start. Pope Francis arrived at the ca- For too long, too many Central ready to brave blows in this battle Christians, and especially those thedral after a meeting with repre- Africans have been suffering, the over which God will have the last with a vocation to priesthood or resentatives of the Central African Re- pope said. “There are also those word. And that word will be love ligious life, are called to love their public’s evangelical and Protestant who have been scarred in soul or and peace,” the pope said in an enemies, “which protects us from communities. Catholic Archbishop body by hatred and violence, those evening homily Nov. 29 at Bangui’s the temptation to seek revenge and Dieudonne Nzapalainga of Bangui, whom war has deprived of every- cathedral. from the spiral of endless retalia- president of the Central African thing: work, home and loved ones,” A civil war that began in 2013 tion,” the pope said in his homily. Republic bishops’ conference; the the pope said. When God looks and ongoing outbursts of violence, Anyone who has a role of evan- Rev. Nicolas Guerekoyame-Gban- upon the suffering, he does not see including between mainly Muslim gelizer, teacher or preacher in the gou, president of the Evangelical members of one denomination or and mainly Christian militias, have Christian community, he said, must Alliance of the Central African Re- another. Pope Francis opens the Holy sown terror in the Central African be “first and foremost practitioners public; and Imam Oumar Kobine “I have often called this the ecu- Door as he begins the Holy Year Republic, which already was on of forgiveness, specialists in recon- Layama, president of the Islamic menism of blood,” he said. “All our of Mercy at the start of a Mass most lists of the five poorest coun- ciliation, experts in mercy.” Community of Central African Re- communities suffer indiscrimi- with priests, religious, catechists tries in Africa. A fifth of the coun- As Catholics observe the Advent public, have been working together nately as a result of injustice and and youths at the cathedral in try’s population has fled abroad time of waiting to celebrate Christ’s to persuade their people to end the the blind hatred unleashed by the Bangui, Central African Republic, or is living in camps for displaced coming, he said, they should keep vendettas and embrace peace and devil.” Nov. 29. (Paul Haring | CNS) people. reminding themselves that God is reconciliation. Pope Francis urged the country’s Explaining to people outside the a God of justice and of love — two Rev. Guerekoyame-Gbangou Christians to continue on the path trary to God’s will.” Bangui cathedral that their city was, things the people of Central African was among those welcoming Pope of ecumenism, cooperation and But it is also a scandal in a for the day, “the spiritual capital Republic need desperately. “God is Francis Nov. 29 to a special meeting common prayer. “The lack of unity world torn apart by hatred and of the world,” Pope Francis prayed stronger than all else,” the pope with representatives of the coun- among Christians is a scandal,” he violence, a world yearning for a for the mercy and grace of peace as said. “This conviction gives the try’s evangelical and Protestant said, “above all because it is con- word of peace and unity, he said. n Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic POPE in AFRICA 14 Pope preaches peace in Central African Republic Cindy Wooden ly Christian factions forced a post- local and international organiza- Catholic News Service ponement until Dec. 27. tions and businesses to ensure that Speaking at the presidential the use of natural resources does BANGUI, Central African Re- palace, Pope Francis told Samba- not become an abuse of them. The public | Despite serious security Panza and civic leaders that it was country is located in the fertile Con- concerns for Pope Francis and for his deep hope that the vote would go Basin, known as the “green heart those who would come to see him, “enable the country to embark se- of Africa,” and decisions about re- the pope landed in Central African renely on (a) new chapter of its his- source exploitation can “affect the Republic Nov. 29 saying he came as tory.” As he often does when trying entire planet,” the pope said. “a pilgrim of peace.” to encourage a nation’s leaders and Pope Francis also thanked all “Unity in diversity is a constant people, Pope Francis looked to the of the international organizations challenge, one which demands cre- nation’s ideals — “unity, dignity and governments helping the Cen- ativity, generosity, self-sacrifice and and labor” — telling the people that tral Africans move toward peace. respect for others,” he said, visiting they and all their neighbors share “I heartily encourage them to con- the country where political and eth- the same hope to see those ideals tinue along the path of solidarity in nic rivalries also have split people realized. the hope that their commitment, to- along religious lines. Restoring harmony and forging gether with the activity of the Cen- Pope Francis walks with Catherine Samba-Panza, transitional A brief airport arrival ceremony unity, he told the president and civ- tral African authorities, will help president of the Central African Republic, as they arrive for a meeting was held amid tight security pro- ic leaders, will require “avoiding the the country to advance, especially at the presidential palace in Bangui. (Paul Haring | CNS) vided by the Central Africans, temptation to fear others, the unfa- in the areas of reconciliation, dis- France, the United Nations, U.N. miliar and what is not part of our armament, peacekeeping, health and religious groups. destroy another’s property?” She peacekeepers, extra Vatican police ethnic group, our political views or care and the cultivation of a sound Samba-Panza — a Catholic and prayed the pope would exorcize and even some U.S. security officers our religious confession.” administration at all levels.” longtime politician — publicly ad- “the demons of division, hatred and dressed in dark suits. “Unity, on the contrary, calls for After all the uncertainty because dressed the pope just a few hours self-destruction.” Pope Francis and his entourage creating and promoting a synthesis of the security situation, the fact before he was to open the local After the meeting, Pope Francis followed Catherine Samba-Panza, of the richness which each person that the pope arrived is “a blessing celebration of the Year of Mercy by went three miles by popemobile the country’s interim president, in has to offer,” he said. from heaven,” Samba-Panza said. opening the Holy Door at Bangui’s to a refugee camp set up around a a convoy to the presidential palace Access to education, health care, It is “a victory of faith over fear and cathedral. “On behalf of the ruling Catholic parish. Some 3,300 people about five miles away. The highway adequate nutrition and decent disbelief, and a victory of the com- class of this country but also on be- live there. Little children had lined was lined with tens of thousands of housing must be provided to all, passion and solidarity of the univer- half of all those who contributed in up holding torn pieces of light fabric people, many of whom waved palm Pope Francis said. “In effect, our sal Church.” The president thanked any way whatsoever to his descent with words written on them: peace, or other tree branches. In addition human dignity is expressed by our the pope for giving her people a into hell,” she told the pope, “I con- love, friendship, equality. The pope to armed forces doing crowd con- working for the dignity of our fellow “lesson of courage and determina- fess all the harm that has been done told the crowd he had read the trol, armored U.N. vehicles were man.” tion” by visiting despite the recent here over the course of history and I signs. parked at almost every intersection. “Those who have the means to violence. beg forgiveness from the bottom of “We work and pray and do ev- Samba-Panza was appointed in enjoy a decent life, rather than be- The country, which was ruled my heart.” erything possible for peace, but January 2014 to lead the country ing concerned with privileges,” he by a succession of military dicta- “Abominations have been com- without love, without friendship, out of the civil war that began in said, “must seek to help those poor- tors from 1962 to 1993, also has suf- mitted in the name of religion by tolerance, forgiveness, peace isn’t 2013 and toward democratic elec- er than themselves.” fered from repeated coups. In the people who call themselves believ- possible,” he said. “May you all live tions. The vote had been scheduled The Central African Republic, process, Samba-Panza said, “Our ers,” she said. “But how can one in peace no matter what your eth- for October, but a new outbreak of rich in natural resources, can and country has not been spared from be a believer and destroy places of nicity, religion, social status,” the violence between predominantly must do more to develop job op- devastating winds that sowed dis- worship, kill one’s neighbor, rape, pope said. n Muslim factions and predominant- portunities, but must work with unity and distrust” between ethnic To Ugandans: Honor your martyrs by putting faith into action

Cindy Wooden they shared the same faith in Je- I thought I didn’t have a right to love referring both to Nansumba and to to 107 years, said Bishop Robert Catholic News Service sus and they offer a witness to “the and be loved.” In the end, she said, Emmanuel Odokonyero, who had Muhiirwa of Fort Portal, chairman ecumenism of blood.” Honoring the she decided to use her story to teach talked about being kidnapped by of the Ugandan bishops’ health KAMPALA, Uganda | As Pope martyrs is not something to be done other youths about HIV and AIDS, the rebel Lord’s Resistance Army in commission. Francis encouraged Ugandan only on their feast day, he said, but particularly that “we must respect 2003, tortured and escaping after “Our families need to become Christians to draw inspiration from must be done daily through upright our life and that of others,” chang- three months. From the late 1980s ever more evident signs of God’s pa- the 19th-century Ugandan Martyrs, behavior and loving care for others ing behavior to prevent the spread and for more than 20 years, the tient and merciful love, not only for he carried with him graphic images in the family, the neighborhood, at of the disease. Lord’s Resistance Army terrorized our children and elders, but for all of the horrors the 45 Anglican and work and in society. “Take charge of your life and Uganda, kidnapping thousands of those in need,” the pope said. “Our Catholic martyrs endured. Keeping one’s eyes focused on know your (HIV) status,” she told children and forcing hundreds of parishes must not close their doors The pope made an early morning God, he said, “does not diminish the estimated 150,000 youths gath- thousands of people to seek safety or their ears to the cry of the poor. visit Nov. 28 to the Anglican shrine our concern for this world. Instead, ered at the Kololo airstrip to see the in camps for displaced persons. This is the royal road of Christian and museum located on the site it gives purpose to our lives in this pope. “AIDS is real, but it can be “In your veins, the blood of mar- discipleship.” where many of the martyrs died. world and helps us to reach out to prevented and managed.” tyrs flows,” the pope told the two Meeting with Uganda’s priests, The main exhibit features realis- those in need, to cooperate with More than 7 percent of Ugandan youths. “That is why your faith is so religious and seminarians 11 hours tic statues of men being tortured, others for the common good and to adults are HIV-positive and tens of strong.” after his day had begun, Pope Fran- bound and thrown on a fire. build a more just society.” thousands continue to be infected The pope urged the young peo- cis spoke about the importance of Pope Francis had a look of shock Heartbreaking modern chal- each year. Because of sexual vio- ple to find positive challenges in remembering the martyrs by wit- on his face as Anglican Arch- lenges to faith led Pope Francis to lence and lack of access to educa- the negative events of their lives, to nessing to the faith like they did, bishop Stanley Ntagali of Uganda abandon the text he had prepared tion, young women are particularly trust Jesus to transform their suf- by remaining faithful to their voca- explained how the martyrs were for an afternoon meeting with in danger in Uganda. U.N. figures fering into joy and to turn to Mary tions and by praying. executed on the orders of King Ugandan youths. Instead, he tried estimate that 4.2 percent of Ugan- when experiencing pain, just like a The pope publicly thanked the Mwanga II in the late 1800s. After- to respond directly to the young dan women aged 15-24 are HIV- child runs to his or her mother after Good Shepherd Sisters for the “ex- ward, the pope celebrated a Mass woman and young man who ad- positive while 2.4 percent of men falling and getting hurt. ample of fidelity” they showed him outside the nearby Catholic shrine dressed him, although the effort that age are. In the early evening, the pope at the House of Charity, “fidelity to to the martyrs. The shrine has an was plagued by technical problems Pope Francis did not speak spe- visited the House of Charity in the poor, the infirm and the dis- artificial lake, and Ugandan secu- with the microphone. cifically about AIDS or its preven- Kampala’s Nalukolongo neighbor- abled because Christ is there.” rity patrolled it in a little rubber boat Winnie Nansumba, 24, told the tion, but he spoke instead about hood; the Good Shepherd Sisters Ugandan soil, “bathed by the throughout the liturgy. pope she was born HIV-positive overcoming despair and depression run a home there for 102 elderly and blood of martyrs,” always will need In his homily, Pope Francis hon- and, “as a young woman, I always and fighting for one’s life. He also people with severe disabilities. The new witnesses to faith, he told the ored all the martyrs, noting that found it hard to fall in love because went on at length about courage, residents range in age from 11 years priests and religious. n 15 NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL NEWS Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015 State’s decision to abolish death penalty marked at Rome’s Colosseum

Tuscany in 1786. Recalling the firm opposition Despite events This year, 2,031 cities around of the church to the death penalty, the world expressed their support the bishops’ conference said in late urging to abolish for the Cities for Life initiative, and October its members were available nearly 400 special events were held to work with the Holy See and other the death penalty, worldwide. national bishops’ conferences to in- Sant’Egidio invited to the event fluence governments on the issue. Florida to start at the Colosseum Nebraska State In mid-November, Indonesia de- Sens. Colby Coash and Mark Kolter- clared a temporary moratorium on man, who supported the state’s re- the death penalty, saying the tem- 2016 with two peal of the death penalty, and Sister porary ban was meant to help the Helen Prejean, a Sister of St. Joseph country focus more on fixing the executions and longtime opponent of capital nation’s economy. punishment. The Indonesian bishops had Also invited was Miriam Thimm been asking the country’s presi- Nicole Pellicano Kelle from Nebraska who is active dent to reconsider the use of capital Catholic News Service in the fight against the death pen- punishment, calling it an inhuman alty. Her brother, James Thimm, form of punishment that was not ef- ROME | Rome’s Colosseum was murdered 30 years ago, and his fective in deterring crime. was lit in honor of the U.S. state of killer was given the death penalty, The death penalty is applied Nebraska’s decision to abolish the which she has said has offered no both in law and practice in about A woman with a poster of Pope Francis stands with other death death penalty and as part of Cit- opportunity for true healing for vic- 37 nations, including the United penalty opponents outside the Georgia Diagnostic Prison in Jackson ies for Life Day, a worldwide event tim’s families. States, Japan and China. Since ex- before the scheduled Sept. 30 execution of Kelly Gissendaner by that supports a global end to capital Nebraska ended the use of the ecutions resumed in the 1970’s, lethal injection. (Erik S. Lesser, EPA | CNS) punishment. death penalty in May, becoming Florida has executed 91 people The Rome-based lay Commu- the 19th U.S. state to abolish capital while at the same time 26 people on an evidentiary hearing in which However, only one day later — nity of Sant’Egidio, which is active punishment. were exonerated and released from lawyers are seeking a new trial for Dec. 1 — Gov. Scott ordered the in a worldwide campaign to elimi- Meanwhile, bishops in Australia Death Row. That’s a mistake rate of Bolin. execution of Michael Lambrix for nate capital executions, sponsors have been renewing their call for a more than one exoneration for ev- Florida cities joined cities across Thursday, Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. Lam- the lighting event every Nov. 30 to worldwide ban on the death pen- ery four executions. Gov. Rick Scott the globe Nov. 30 to celebrate World brix claims to have acted in self- highlight its cause. The Colosse- alty. has already broken the record for Day of “Cities for Life/Cities Against defense. Of the two key witnesses um has been a symbol against the While capital punishment has most executions by a Florida gov- the Death Penalty.” Some 2,000 against Lambrix, one has now re- death penalty because of its history been prohibited in Australia since ernor and plans the nation’s first cities worldwide mobilized to re- canted and the other gave inconsis- as a site for gladiatorial combat and 2001, Archbishop Denis Hart, presi- execution of 2016 for Oscar Bolin nounce the death penalty. Church- tent statements to police. executions. dent of the Australian Catholic Jr. Jan. 7. That order was signed less es, cathedrals and prominent city To contact Gov. Scott to urge him Cities for Life Day is held every Bishops’ Conference recently wrote than 24 hours after the execution of monuments were illuminated as to suspend all executions, contact year to commemorate the first abo- to the federal parliament offering Jerry Correll. Gov. Scott signed the participants celebrated through his office by phone at 850-488-7146 lition of the death penalty by a Eu- assistance in achieving a global warrant for Bolin despite a Hillsbor- interfaith prayer services, speakers, or email: [email protected] ropean state — the Grand Duchy of moratorium. ough County Judge expected ruling music and bell-ringing. da.com . n At climate summit, Catholics join in calls for change

Catholic News Service Seminarians From Seoul, South Korea, to Ot- played out over and over in singing, join climate tawa, Ontario; New York to Sao dance numbers and dramatiza- PARIS | Hundreds of thousands justice activists Paulo, people marched to demand tions of the impacts of the earth’s of people in at least 150 countries at a plaza climate change. rising temperatures. in Manila, around the world demanded ac- Philippines, In Manila, Philippines, dozens Manila Auxiliary Bishop Brod- tion on climate change on the eve Nov. 29, the of religious added their voices to erick Pabillo opened an outdoor of a U.N. conference that aimed to day before the cry of mostly Catholic activists Mass with a prayer of hope during find agreement on greenhouse gas the start during a climate march on a hu- the lighting of the first candle on an emissions. of the U.N. mid, overcast morning. In the plaza Advent wreath. “Hope for the en- Heads of state traveled to Paris climate across the street from Our Lady of lightenment of all peoples, that we for the Nov. 30-Dec. 11 Conference change Remedies Church, Sacred Heart are just a strand in the web of life, of Parties, or COP21, in the Paris conference, in Missionaries seminarian Reynon that what we do to the environment, suburb of Le Bourget. Catholic or- Paris. (SIMONE Ajero held up colorful signs that we do to ourselves,” said Bishop Pa- ganizations advocating to protect ORENDIAN said “Resist the plunder of our en- billo. the world and its people from the | CNS) vironment” and a reference to the Lou Arsenio, head of the Manila impact of climate change said the pope’s “Laudato Si’.” Archdiocese Ecology Ministry and terror attacks in Paris had not dis- Ajero said he grew up in a moun- one of the originators of the Global suaded them from attending a ma- climate agreement in Paris.” canceled after the Nov. 13 terrorist tainous village in the southern Catholic Climate Movement since jor U.N. summit there. “We ask for drastic cuts of carbon attacks. Instead, Parisians and oth- province of Zamboanga del Norte it started about a year ago, has seen Interfaith leaders gathered in emissions to keep the global tem- ers from around the world donated populated with “plenty of diversity” greater awareness among Catho- Saint-Denis, France, Nov. 28 to perature rise below the dangerous shoes and set them up at Place de la in animals, trees and wild flowers. lics, but she told Catholic News Ser- hand over a petition with more than threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius,” Republique. The display was dis- On Nov. 29, he lamented the signifi- vice there is more work to do. 1.8 million signatures — 800,000 the cardinal said. “As the bishops’ rupted as Paris police used tear gas cant loss of trees to mining and the In Melbourne, Australia, Nov. 27, collected by Catholic organizations appeal states, we need to ‘put an to break up an unauthorized dem- disappearance of the animals from more than 40,000 people marched — calling for action on climate end to the fossil fuel era’ and ‘set onstration. his childhood. in the city’s central business district change. At the event, Brazilian Car- a goal for complete decarboniza- Jesuit Father Michael Czerny, “I want to ask all the people to to call for action on climate change. dinal Claudio Hummes, president tion by 2050.’ And we ask wealthier who works at the Pontifical Coun- be awake,” he told Catholic News A statement on the website of the of the Pan-Amazonian Church countries to aid the world’s poorest cil for Justice and Peace, confirmed Service. “I want make the people Archdiocese of Melbourne said Network, referred to Pope Francis’ to cope with climate change im- Pope Francis donated a signed know that we are suffering for what Catholics were at the forefront of the encyclical “Laudato Si’, on Care pacts, by providing robust climate pair of shoes to the display. Cardi- is our mistake to our mother earth. march. Honduran Cardinal Oscar for Our Common Home,” and to an finance.” nal Hummes and Cardinal Peter So whatever we do to ourselves, we Rodriguez Maradiaga, former presi- October appeal by Catholic bishops Originally, hundreds of thou- Turkson, president of the Pontifical do to the mother earth; it will return dent of Caritas Internationalis, told worldwide that called “for a fair, sands were expected to march in Council for Justice and Peace, also to us.” the crowd, “We were given a garden. binding and truly transformational Paris Nov. 29, but the march was signed and donated shoes. This message in the plaza was We may not deliver back a desert.” n Dec. 4-17, 2015 Florida Catholic SUNDAY WORD and SCRIPTURE 16

Scripture Overcoming obstacles readings Friday, Dec. 4 Sunday, Dec. 6 of obstacles. In the course of some disappointments will be planted Advent is a time for cultivat- Is 29:17-24; Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14; Mt 9:27-31 Second Sunday of Advent of our days, “American Ninja with “forests of every fragrant ing hopeful patience, a time for Bar 5:1-9; Ps 126:1-6; Phil 1:4-6, 8-11; Warrior” seems like child’s play kind of tree.” removing obstacles. And indeed, Saturday, Dec. 5 Lk 3:1-6 compared with the leaps and lad- The evangelist Luke reminds as the Letter to the Philippians Is 30:19-21, 23-26; Ps 147:1-6; ders and walls each of us is called us, in what may seem in the assures us, “the One who began a Mt 9:35–10:1, 5a, 6-8 During the wasteland that of- to face. opening verses of the Gospel to good work in you will continue to ten is summer television, I stum- Like many a biblical lamenter, be a mere history lesson, that God complete it.” Sunday, Dec. 6 bled across a show that, we may find ourselves does all of this valley-filling, and But God is not the only one I’m embarrassed to admit, asking, “Why does life road-straightening, and rough- who needs to be active in this Second Sunday of Advent I actually enjoyed watch- have to be so hard, so way-smoothing in specific times season of expectation. We, too, Bar 5:1-9; Ps 126:1-6; Phil 1:4-6, 8-11; Lk 3:1-6 ing for several weeks: difficult, so much like and places — in the here and now are invited to do some smooth- “American Ninja War- running an obstacle of each of our lives. ing and reshaping and filling and Monday Dec. 7 rior.” ANW is a sports en- course?” And just as As Luke situates the Baptist in straightening, for some obstacles St. Ambrose, bishop and doctor of the tertainment competition the words fall from a specific time and place, so too we meet are, in truth, very much Church that challenges competi- our lips, here come the does our God remove obstacles, of our own making. And even at Is 35:1-10; Ps 85:9ab, 10-14; Lk 5:17-26 tors to complete an often Scriptures for this Sec- not in some abstract or generic times, we may be the source of grueling series of obstacle ond Sunday of Advent, way, but in the specific ways that creating them for others. Tuesday, Dec. 8 courses that become in- Sunday both consoling us and each of us and our world may “American Ninja Warrior” may creasingly difficult with Word empowering us into need them cleared in our time demonstrate the power of human Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary each week’s advance- Father our journey in faith and place. persons to overcome the wildest ment. Flying bars, crazy with images of God’s Perhaps too often, we find it of obstacles, but the word of God Gn 3:9-15, 20; Ps 98:1-4; Eph 1:3-6, 11-12; cliffhangers, giant hand Ben desire to remove ob- difficult to daily “discern what this Advent Sunday summons us Lk 1:26-38 cycles, the cannonball in- Berinti stacles from our path is of value” because we are tired to embrace a strength beyond any cline, and a salmon ladder so that we might fully from running the obstacle course, capacity, or training, or talent we Wednesday, Dec. 9 are amongst the wild feats embrace the God who from hitting the wall, from jump- may achieve. Is 40:25-31; Ps 103:1-4, 8, 10; Mt 11:28-30 of strength, skill and sheer endur- is always moving toward us. ing through more hoops than a With the power of the Most ance the athletes face. The prophet Baruch invites trained lion. But with the strength High, who overshadowed Mary Thursday, Dec. 10 As I tuned in each week, I be- us to stand tall and to dress in of God, who gives us “mercy and at the Annunciation, removing Is 41:13-20; Ps 145:1, 9-13b; Mt 11:11-15 gan thinking how so much of our splendor as God starts chiseling justice” for companionship, and even seemingly insurmountable life seems to be an equally chal- away at mountains and back- indeed “does great things,” we obstacles, indeed “all flesh shall Friday, Dec. 11 lenging, if not downright rigor- filling depths and gorges. Even will witness the salvation of our see the salvation of God”! n ous, movement through a series the landscape of our defeats and God. Is 48:17-19; Ps 1:1-4, 6; Mt 11:16-19 Saturday, Dec. 12 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Zec 2:14-17 or Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab; (Ps) Jdt 13:18bc, 19; Lk 1:26-38 or 1:39-47 Keeping it real Sunday, Dec. 13 Third Sunday of Advent Sunday, Dec. 13 off litany-like every time he finds from where someone is in life, pel and our baptismal promises. Zep 3:14-18a; (Ps) Is 12:2-6; Phil 4:4-7; Lk 3:10-18 Third Sunday of Advent himself attempting to convince how someone makes a living, There are no areas of our life that a skeptical adult he desperately how someone spends time and are meant to be left untouched by Zep 3:14-18a; (Ps) Is 12:2-6; Phil 4:4-7; Monday, Dec. 14 Lk 3:10-18 needs it for Christmas. Alas, ev- talent, how someone uses his or the good news. eryone from his teacher Miss her resources. Ralphie Parker knew what he St. John of the Cross, priest and doctor of It is that time of year when the Shields to the big man in the red It truth, the Baptist is announc- wanted for Christmas; Paul knew the Church Christmas “classics” start appear- suit himself, Santa Claus, echoes ing that religious practice can no what he wanted the Philippians to Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a; Ps 25:4-5b, 6, 7bc, 8-9; ing on television with the discon- the same refrain: “You’ll shoot longer be a matter of spouting do, so much so that he repeated it Mt 21:23-27 certing frequency of allergy-in- your eye out!” pious platitudes, racing through (just in case they didn’t hear him duced sneezes. No worries about Ralphie’s passionate desire is standard religious rituals, repeat- the first time): “Rejoice!” John the Tuesday, Dec. 15 missing a favorite though, as it to find, nestled under his fam- ing words of rote prayer, or cast- Baptist knew what he wanted Zep 3:1-2, 9-13; Ps 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-19, 23; seems these movies play at least a ily’s Christmas tree, a “Red Ryder ing off the occasional alms for the as he announced the coming of Mt 21:28-32 dozen times — per day — in the Carbine Action 200-shot Range poor. No, the Baptist insists on “One mightier than I.” weeks immediately leading up to Model air rifle with a compass keeping it real. As this season of patient ex- Wednesday, Dec. 16 Christmas. in the stock and ‘this thing that What a wonderfully challeng- pectation rushes toward its con- I have long been a fan of one tells time.’” You just have to love ing, and indeed joyful, message clusion, and we await the fullness Is 45:6b-8, 18, 21b-25; Ps 85:9ab, 10-14; Lk 7:18b-23 particular classic — “A Christmas the kid’s grit, determination and for this Third Sunday of Advent. of God’s coming kingdom, do we Story.” Much like my guilty plea- precision. As we prepare for the “great and know what we have to do in liv- Thursday, Dec. 17 sure this time of year of scarfing Similarly, you just have to love Holy One of Israel” to enter into ing the Gospel? Might there be a down Santa-face sugar cook- John the Baptist’s precision in the our lives, we need not “fear or specific choice, decision or action Gn 49:2, 8-10; Ps 72:1-4b, 7-8, 17; Mt 1:1-17 ies with milk, I can’t seem to get Gospel of Luke for this Sunday, be discouraged,” as the prophet you undertake in the week ahead enough of that film. The plot is as he sets out the specifics when Zephaniah declares. This Lord, that will give bold witness to the Friday, Dec. 18 nostalgically simple and centers asked by would-be penitents: who in fact is already in our midst, Lord, whose presence is already Jer 23:5-8; Ps 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19; Mt 1:18-25 on 9-year-old Ralphie Parker’s “What should we do?” If prepa- enables us to answer the hard among us? n obsession with receiving what ration to receive the Messiah, if questions, make the risky deci- Saturday, Dec. 19 he considers the holy grail of all change of heart is to mean any- sions, alter the stagnant patterns Father Berinti, Missionaries of Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a; Ps 71:3-4a, 5-6b, 16-17; Christmas presents — an air rifle. thing worth pursuing, it must of our ways, and allow the joy of the Most Precious Blood, is di- Lk 1:5-25 But Ralphie doesn’t crave involve to-the-point decisions the Gospel to penetrate deeply rector of Catholic Campus Min- just any old pellet-shooter; he and actions that reach the core into our daily choices. In a sense, istry at the University of Central Sunday, Dec. 20 has the details down to a near- of people’s lives. They must be nothing we say or do in life falls Florida in Orlando. sacred mantra and rattles them choices and actions that flow beyond the shadow of the Gos- Fourth Sunday of Advent Mi 5:1-4a; Ps 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19; Heb 10:5-10; Lk 1:39-45 17 CLASSIFIEDS Florida Catholic Dec. 4-17, 2015

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