Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Volume XXXVI, No. 11 NOVEMBER 2016

DIOCESE OF SAN ANGELO NONPROFIT ORG. PO BOX 1829 US POSTAGE PAID SAN ANGELO TX 76902-1829 SAN ANGELO, TX PERMIT NO. 44

Knights of Columbus process to the Doors of Mercy at The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Midland. The Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy draws to a close on November 20, 2016. (Photo by Karen J. Patterson). Related stories, photos, Pgs. 2, 11, 12-13. Page 2 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus The Inside Front 300 attend conference day, see diocese’s diversity first hand

By Becca Nelson Sankey annual Diocesan Conference Day on a diverse diocese, so we wanted to Bethany Oct. 15 at the McNease Convention focus on the gift we have in our cul- Brunell, left, SAN ANGELO — One of the San Center. This year’s theme, ture and how that makes us a and Nik Ruiz, Angelo Catholic Diocese’s many “Catechesis & Culture: Embracing stronger Church.” share their strengths is that it is diverse, said Sr. Our Diversity,” addressed multicul- The local diocese is known for its experiences Adelina Garcia, associate director of turalism within the Church. myriad educational opportunities, of from World Evangelization and Catechesis. With “We’re in the process of the particular importance because there Youth Day this blessing, however, comes the Encuentro, (a meeting that focuses isn’t a Catholic university within the 2016, in responsibility of examination. on) how we’re addressing the grow- diocese. Krakow. Nearly 300 Catholics from ing population of Hispanics in our (Photo by Becca Sankey throughout the diocese attended the country,” Garcia said. “We are such (Please See CONFERENCE/20) Nelson). 125 and Counting Church must do better accompanying young couples, being married examples, cardinal says

By Jimmy Patterson Editor / The Angelus

AUSTIN — Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, told diocesan dele- gates gathered in Austin in October that while the Church does an admirable job recogniz- ing couples that have been married many years, it must do more to accom- pany young couples in preparation for the Sacrament of Marriage, as well as during the couple’s early years of mar- riage. It is then, he said, that most cou- ples are most in need of help from those who can be examples. “We’re not doing much for couples in the first seven years,” he said, speaking at the Texas Sacred Heart celebrates 125 years Conference of Catholic Bishops’ legislative agenda ses- West Texas Angelus sion. He challenged couples to find at least one other cou- ABILENE — The Sacred Heart Parish ple who could benefit from being accompanied. “Try to Community celebrated a big anniversary on witness to just one young couple,” he said. Sunday, Sept. 18. In a commemoration of 125 DiNardo also suggested that although the Church has years, members gathered for food, dancing, good and resourceful marriage preparation available, it music, a historical talk and the sharing of mem- needs to start instructing on the Sacrament of Matrimony ories. as early as the second grade. The parish was created in September 1891 but “We start too late,” he said. “We need to start in the the presence of Catholics in West Texas goes second grade. You build a repertoire in young people. back to the 1500s and early Spanish adventurers Even if their homes are not ideal, you begin to show and settlers. By the 1880s there were enough them what the sacrament of marriage and family life is Catholics around Abilene that a priest would like at that young age.” come in on a regular basis for Mass and the DiNardo focused on Pope Francis’ Amoris Laetitia, sacraments. The Bishop of Galveston, Nicholas which, he said, was a writing meant to be read slowly. Gallagher, came on a pastoral visit in 1885 and DiNardo said the document is like a rhapsody, with religious sisters from San Antonio came to fund themes, variations and synchronizations, and less like a raise in 1886. symphony, where the path of the music is clearly defined. Msgr. Bob Bush, above, with a parishioner, and at top, Fr. (Please See SACRED HEART/22) The cardinal also encouraged those in attendance to Innocent Eziefule, center (Courtesy photos). focus on Chapters 4 and 5 of Amoris Laetitia. The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 3 CALENDARS From The Bishop’s Desk

BISHOP MICHAEL 12 — SAN ANGELO, SIS’ SCHEDULE Procession for Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at With Holy Doors closing, where will we find mercy? NOVEMBER 4:00 p.m., Mass at St. By Bishop Michael J. Sis John Paul II declared the last Jubilee during a Jubilee Year and fulfill the pre- 9-10 — CORPUS Mary’s Parish at 6:00 CHRISTI, Kenedy p.m. Holy Year in 2000, he expressed it scribed conditions for a plenary indul- Foundation Board 13 — SAN ANGELO, The Extraordinary Jubilee Year of beautifully: “To focus on the door is to gence. Meeting Diocesan Pastoral Mercy will conclude worldwide on the recall the responsibility of every believ- What are those conditions? 11 — AUSTIN, John Center, Liturgical Solemnity of Christ the King on er to cross its threshold. To pass According to Church teaching, they are Paul II Life Center Commission Meeting Banquet at 6:00 p.m. at 10:00 a.m. November 20, 2016. through that door means to confess that the following: (1) truly repenting of our 12-18 BALTIMORE, 14 — SAN ANGELO, On that day Pope Jesus Christ is Lord; it is to strengthen sin and letting go of our attachment to USCCB General Christ the King Retreat Francis will close faith in him in order to live the new life sin; (2) sacramental Confession; (3) Assembly Center, Advent Staff Day the Holy Door at St. which he has given us.” (Incarnationis reception of the Eucharist; and (4) pray- 20 — HOUSTON, St. of Reflection at 9:00 a.m. Peter’s Basilica in Mary’s Seminary, Mass of 17 — SAN ANGELO, Mysterium, 8) ing for the intentions of the Pope. A the Institution of Acolytes Diocesan Mission Council Rome. In all other Pope Francis asked that, in this member of the Church who has fulfilled at 9:30 a.m. Meeting at 9:30 a.m. dioceses around the Jubilee Holy Year 2016, we let the door those four conditions may acquire a ple- 21 — LUBBOCK, Christ 18-20 — SAN ANGE- world, including be a symbol of Christ, who is the door nary indulgence by carrying out any of the King Cathedral, LO, Seminarian San Angelo, the to the Father and the door to the the various particular actions which the Ordination and Gathering Holy Doors will be Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus proclaims Church has designated for plenary Installation of Bishop 21— EDEN, Mass at Bishop Sis Robert Coerver at 2:00 Prison at 1:00 p.m. closing on Sunday, in the Gospel of John, “I am the door. indulgences. p.m. 21 — SAN ANGELO, November 13. If anyone enters by me, he will be An indulgence can be obtained for 22 — ABILENE, Holy Sacred Heart Cathedral, At the beginning of the Holy Year, I saved, and will go in and out and find oneself or for someone who is deceased, Family, RCIA presentation Mass at 6:00 p.m. at 6:30 p.m. 24 — SAN ANGELO, designated four Holy Doors of Mercy in pasture … I came that they may have but it cannot be applied to other persons 29 — BELTON, Tom Green County Jail, the Diocese of San Angelo: life, and have it abundantly.” (John living on earth. In order to gain an Cedarbrake Retreat Mass at 9:15 a.m. and • Sacred Heart Cathedral, San Angelo 10:9, 10b) indulgence, one must be in the state of Center, Advent Day of 10:15 a.m. • Outdoor Shrine of Our Lady of After November 13, 2016, the four grace at least at the time the indul- Prayer presentations 24 — SAN ANGELO, County Juvenile Facility, Guadalupe, Midland Holy Doors in the Diocese of San genced action is completed. DECEMBER Visit to youth at 11:30 • Eucharistic Chapel of Sacred Heart Angelo will no longer bear that designa- While there are just a few more days 2 — SAN ANGELO, a.m. Parish, Abilene tion. This means the time is short to to gain a plenary indulgence associated Diocesan Pastoral • St. Mary Church, Odessa take the opportunity to receive the spe- with passing through a Holy Door, there Center, Diocesan Finance Over the past year, thousands of peo- Council and Presbyteral CHRIST THE KING cial plenary indulgence associated with is no need to be anxious. This is Council Joint Meeting at RETREAT CENTER ple have made pilgrimages to these four passing through a Holy Door during the because plenary indulgences may be 11:00 a.m., Presbyteral NOVEMBER special places and walked through these Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. A obtained at any time by carrying out the Council Meeting at 2:00 11-13 — Deacon doors. What does it mean spiritually to plenary indulgence is granted to the p.m. Formation pass through a Holy Door? When Saint faithful who pass through a Holy Door (Please See BISHOP/18) 2 — SAN ANGELO, Christ the King Retreat 11-13— Beginning Center, Advent Party for Experience Priests, Religious, 14 — Heart of Mercy Misericordia después del Año Santo Deacons and Wives at Prayer Group Obispo Michael J. Sis 5:00 p.m. 21 — Heart of Mercy • Iglesia de Santa María, Odessa de San Ángelo ya no tendrán esa desi- 4 — ODESSA, St. Prayer Group Durante el último año, miles de per- gnación. Esto significa que el tiempo es Anthony, English Mass at El Año Jubilar Extraordinario de la sonas han hecho peregrinaciones a estos corto para tener la oportunidad de recibir 10:00 a.m. and Spanish 24-25 — CRKC Office Mass at 12 noon Closed in Observance Misericordia concluirá por todo el mundo cuatro lugares especiales y han pasado la indulgencia plenaria especial asociada 4 — SAN ANGELO, of Thanksgiving en la Solemnidad de Cristo Rey el 20 de por estas puertas. ¿Qué significa espiri- con el pasar por una Puerta Santa durante Angelo State University 28 — Heart of Mercy noviembre de 2016. En ese día el Papa tualmente el pasar por una Puerta Santa? el Año Jubilar Extraordinario de la Newman Center Mass at Prayer Group Francisco cerrará la Cuando San Juan Pablo II declaró el últi- Misericordia. Una indulgencia plenaria se 6:30 p.m. Puerta Santa en la mo Año Santo Jubilar en el 2000, lo concede a los fieles quienes pasan por 6 — SAN ANGELO, Basílica de San expresó bellamente: “La indicación de la una Puerta Santa durante el Año Jubilar y Diocesan Pastoral DECEMBER Center, Vocation Team 2 — Bishop Sis Advent Pedro en Roma. En puerta recuerda la responsabilidad de satisfacen las condiciones requeridas para Meeting at 2:00 p.m. Party for Clergy and todas las demás cada creyente de cruzar su umbral. Pasar una indulgencia plenaria. 7 — SAN ANGELO, Religious diócesis por todo el por aquella puerta significa confesar que ¿Cuáles son esas condiciones? Según First United Methodist 5 — Heart of Mercy mundo, incluyendo Cristo Jesús es el Señor, fortaleciendo la la enseñanza de la Iglesia, son las sigu- Church, Advent Service at San Ángelo, las fe en Él para vivir la vida nueva que nos ientes: (1) arrepentirnos verdaderamente 12:05 p.m. Prayer Group 7 — WALL, St. 8 — CKRC Office Puertas Santas se ha dado.” (Incarnationis Mysterium, 8) de nuestro pecado y dejar ir nuestro Ambrose, Mass of 75th Closed in Observance of cerrarán el domingo, El Papa Francisco pidió que, en este apego al pecado; (2) una Confesión Anniversary of the Parish the Feast of the 13 de noviembre. Obispo Sis Año Santo Jubilar 2016, dejemos que la sacramental; (3) recibir la Eucaristía; y at 6:00 p.m. Immaculate Conception Al comienzo del puerta sea un símbolo de Cristo, quien es (4) orar por las intenciones del Papa. Un 8 — MIDLAND, St. 9 — Bishop Sis Staff Año Santo designé cuatro Puertas Santas la puerta al Padre y la puerta al Reino de miembro de la Iglesia que ha cumplido Ann, Mass at 8:30 a.m. de Misericordia en la Diócesis de San los Cielos. Jesús proclama en el con esas cuatro condiciones puede 9 — SAN ANGELO, Advent Party Christ the King Retreat 10 — Deacon Ángelo: Evangelio de Juan: “Yo soy la puerta. El adquirir una indulgencia plenaria por Center, Advent Party for Formation • Catedral del Sagrado Corazón, San que por mi entre, será salvo, y entrará y haber llevado a cabo cualquiera de las Pastoral Center and 12 — Heart of Mercy Ángelo saldrá y hallará pastos....he venido para diversas acciones particulares que la Christ the King Retreat Prayer Group • Santuario al aire libre a la Parroquia de que tengan vida, y para que la tengan en Iglesia ha designado para indulgencias Center’s Staff at 6 p.m. 15 — DOSA Staff Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Midland abundancia.” (Juan 10:9, 10b) plenarias. 10 — COLEMAN, • Capilla Eucarística de la Parroquia del Después del 13 de noviembre de 2016, Sacred Heart, Mass at Mass/Lunch OBISPO 10:00 a.m. (Continued on Pg. 20) Sagrado Corazón, Abilene las cuatro Puertas Santas en la Diócesis (Mira /21) Page 4 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus DIOCESAN BRIEFS

A Harvest of Blessings: Rowena’s 94th annual fall festival, Nov. 13 10:30 a.m. - Flag and Raising and Balloon Release to honor all Veterans 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. — Turkey and Dressing with all trimmings along with Rowena Style German Sausage. Plate for Adults and Plates to Go $10.00; children (10 & under) $5.00. Plates-to-Go- are available at Drive Thru or Walk-Up windows. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. — Bingo and Children's games and activities 1 p.m. — Live Auction of donated merchandise begins. Cotton auction begins at 2:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m. — Sausage Sandwich Supper $4.00 - includes tea and dessert Parishioners will be preparing 9,000 lbs. of sausage. Uncooked sausage will be sold @ $5.00 while supply lasts. A Country Store, Bishop Michael J. Sis featuring needle work items, baked and canned goods and plants, delivers his homily at will be open throughout the day. Handicapped parking and assis- Holy Family’s 40th tance during the meal will be available. All activities take place on anniversary Mass, church grounds. October 8 (Photo by Brandon McAuliffe). Retirement Fund For Religious Collection to be taken in diocese, Dec., 10-11 Bishop helps Abilene’s Holy Family WASHINGTON—The annual Retirement Fund for Religious col- lection will be Dec. 10-11 throughout the Diocese of San Angelo. In its 29th year, the collection is coordinated by the National celebrate 40th anniversary as parish Religious Retirement Office, and benefits nearly 33,000 elderly Catholic sisters, brothers and religious order priests whose reli- By Brandon McAuliffe “Some of the people that I bap- Mrs. McAuliffe shared one of gious communities lack adequate retirement funding. Special to the Angelus tized here are getting ready to her fond memories from the The appeal raised $30.7 million in 2015, the sixth highest total in get married and that’s very nice.” early days of the church after it its history. As a result, the NRRO distributed $25 million to 401 reli- ABILENE — The year 2016 Besides Fr. Droll, other opened on the south side of gious communities across the county. Communities utilize the has marked a monumental time parochial vicars assigned to Holy town. assistance to bolster retirement savings and subsidize such day-to- for Holy Family in Abilene as the Family by Bishop Sis, and “We would go to Adoration at day expenses as prescription medications and nursing care. parish commemorated the 40th retired Bishop Michael Pfeifer 5 a.m. and then Fr. Kelly would Throughout the year, additional funding is allocated for religious anniversary of its founding with a during Msgr. Nawarskas’ time at have us come over for coffee congregations with the greatest needs. A portion of the proceeds special Mass and reception, Holy Family are Fr. Ruben afterwards,” she said. “(Holy also supports education in retirement planning and eldercare deliv- October 8. Covos, Fr. Sam Matthiesen, Fr. Family) was something that ery. The anniversary Mass was Innocent Eziefule and Fr. Tony evolved and kept getting better The U.S. bishops initiated the Retirement Fund for Religious in presided over by Bishop Michael Franco. and before you knew it, we were 1988 to address the significant lack of retirement funding among reli- Sis, and concelebrated by Holy Fr. Covos is currently being a part of the town.” gious communities in the U.S. Proceeds are distributed to eligible Family’s priests Rev. Msgr. loaned by the diocese to the Joan and Bernie Taylor were communities to help underwrite retirement and health-care expenses. Frederick Nawarskas and Fr. United States Air Force and is also founding members of Holy Adam Droll. stationed in Dover, Delaware Family, and Joan beamed with PRAY FOR OUR SEMINARIANS All four of Holy Family’s dea- while Fr. Matthieson is now in pride at the reception as she cons – Dr. Daniel Vaughn, Big Spring. looked back on the past four Freddy Perez Gerald Schwalb, Gary Rhodes “They are all very nice and decades. 3rd Year Theology and Chuck Lambert – as well as I’ve enjoyed them,” Msgr. “It has been absolutely won- Assumption Seminary seminarians Thomas Shows and Nawarskas said. “They all derful to see the number of fami- Birthday: March 30, 1986 Kevin Lenius were involved in brought something through their lies that have come to join Holy From: San Angelo the Mass as well. homilies and reflections that they Family,” she said. “It has Favorite Food: Home-cooked Food In its 40 years, you can count shared with the congregation. reached out to so many different Likes learning random facts! on one hand the number of Each one was unique and had a people from refugees to people priests that have been in charge different prospective on the in Abilene to those stationed at of Holy Family – if you don’t divine revelation.” Dyess Air Force Base. We just include the parochial vicars. Adrienne and Gerry McAuliffe love it.” Thomas Shows Msgr. Nawarskas has been prob- were founding members of the Holy Family has also seen 2nd year Theology ably the longest tenured of any church prior to moving to Maine growth that makes it the largest St. Mary’s Seminary, Houston of them as he came to Holy 28 years ago. The couple donat- church in the Abilene deanery – Birthday: July 12, 1989 Family in July 1996. ed one of the pews in the church something that Taylor said From: Abilene “It’s a pleasure getting to learn that were replaced within the nobody ever envisioned. Favorite Food: Indian food and Rosa’s as many people’s names as pos- past year as Holy Family under- “It’s been through the grace of Café sible and being a part of their went renovations that included God and a lot of prayer and work Likes playing video games, running, families and watching their chil- getting a new sound system this making model miniatures, and practicing the harmonica dren growing up,” he said. summer. (Please See HOLY FAMILY/21) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 5 Adversity can keep us from — and eventually lead us to — God By Becca Nelson Sankey The Angelus

Strength is born from struggle and, sometimes, in darkness, there is a divine gift not easily discernible. Such was the message delivered by Sally Robb at the Sally Robb, left, uses 2016 Catholic Women’s Conference at a volunteer from the the Clarion Hotel, Oct. 21 -22. Robb was audience to demon- strate how not forgiv- one of four women who spoke at the con- ing one's own sins ference, which was the Heart of Jesus, creates distance Mary and Joseph Foundation’s first in between themselves San Angelo. and God. (Photo by Robb, who has a master’s degree in Becca Nelson Sankey) Theology and hosts the radio show Thread of Grace, discussed in detail her own personal plights, including the countless seizures, 10-month coma, sur- gery and subsequent brain damage one of her six children endured. The gift, Robb said, is that her daughter is now able to see the beauty in everyone. “She is the image of love, so radiant, so beautiful,” Robb said. “It is an honor to have her as my daughter.” Her daughter also sees God’s gifts in difficult times, having once said in prayer, “Right now it’s too dark for me to see it is mercy, but I know that it must be. And I thank you.” “They are so filled with shame and “Jesus wants to put his hand on top of “Everything that comes to us is a gift “Annunciation leads to Assumption,” condemnation,” Robb said. yours, and He wants to wipe away the He’s giving us. The beloved uses every Robb said. “Her saying ‘yes’ leads to a On a board next to Robb, covering a darkness so you can begin to see how single thing that happens to us as a possi- union with God that if you knew her you photo of the Virgin Mary cradling an beautiful you are to Him, how infinitely bility to draw us closer to Him.” would see.” infant Jesus, were black clouds scrawled He desires you, that none of this sepa- So many times, though, we distance with words such as “abortion,” “critical rates you from Him,” she said, plucking ourselves from God, Robb said. spirit” and “judgment.” each cloud from the board one by one. (Please See WOMEN/19) The Dignity and Nature of Women Answer to our anxieties lies within ourselves, our homes, our families (Editor’s Note: Part 1 in our series of 4.) being honest and trustworthy with those colleague. In this way, women will lead a would bring about a lasting change in around us, by showing up and working conversion of society and culture, which society. This type of womanly influence By Lisa Martinez hard. By caring for our families, helping is part of the mission in God’s plan. may be most effective in the family, but out a friend, giving to a neighbor in need. At the heart of the matter, John Paul is also needed through her participation at As America seethes with anxiety, anger By choosing to do the right thing time says that “woman is first and foremost a all levels of society. How does a woman and confusion about the state of our after time after time. mother,” both physical and spiritual. “You live her physical and spiritual mother- country and those who will lead, it is But in order to be that kind of person, are called to bear witness to the meaning hood in an authentic way? By becoming easy to assume that our we need those who can show us how to be of genuine love, of that gift of self and of aware of, and acting on, the mission that best days are behind us. that kind of person. A teacher, a mentor, a acceptance of others, which ought also to God has specifically given to her. God How can we ever turn model…for St. John Paul II, that would be be at the heart of every interpersonal rela- has given her the feminine traits of self- things around? What women! His vast teaching on women is tionship. Motherhood involves a unique gift, empathy and entrustment of the can lead us to a better rich in its potential to empower and to contact with the new human being devel- human person, and these are meant to be tomorrow? transform. Indeed, the influence and oping within that gives rise to an attitude used at the service of the Church and I would submit that impact of St. John Paul on various areas of towards human beings; not only towards society, especially within the family. our rescue will not our society and culture are only now being her own child, but every human being, Indeed, this is one of the main ways in come from the govern- fully recognized and appreciated. which profoundly marks the woman's per- which God acts, and can transform, the ment or from the pri- Martinez In this series of articles, we will survey sonality.” All women have this capacity, world. vate sector, but from his teaching about women and his belief whether they are physical mothers or not. John Paul says that women first learn our own homes, workplaces, schools and that women recognizing and living from and then teach others that human rela- churches. We, the people of America, are their true vocation, will have a significant Women will lead a cultural change tions are authentic if they are open to the only ones who can restore it. Each of impact on all relationships — be it as John Paul believed that physical and us doing what we can, when we can. By mother, wife, sister, daughter, friend or spiritual motherhood lived authentically (Please See DIGNITY/21) Page 6 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus A smile on the face of God can lead us from our darkness

By Jimmy Patterson Editor West Texas Angelus

Wow. What a month. In fact, what a year. Such vitriol in seemingly every corner of our daily existence, the banner of inelegance and the torch of bitterness carried by the very ones who would seek to lead us. It’s no wonder studies show we are more irritable, depressed, and angry these days. Heaven help us. Many have lost friends — both real and virtual — over this election, a cycle that has proved to us once and for all to never discuss religion and politics if you have any hope of keeping the peace. The election cycle conditioned many to hate, and we have been led to believe that hate is OK, especially when it is necessary to advance your political ideolo- Patterson gies for “the good of America.” After all, our very futures rely on our leaders, and if you don’t believe me, well then, you know what you can do with it. Unfortunately for us all, the one we are being called to follow is not God. If it were, we wouldn’t be having these troubled times, nor would we be involved in this divisive speech. If we placed our trust solely on God, perhaps we wouldn’t have fallen so far, so hard, so fast. But here we are. I guess we could all let forth with a big, friendly smile, right? Trite, you say? Yet, is it not the absence of a pleasant outward demeanor that has landed us all here in the first place? We all owe our- selves a few days of smiles after what we have just been through. And those who especially need one — both on the receiving and giving end — are those who have been so misled to believe that all of what ails us is solvable through the election of one flawed human being, regardless of who that person is. Our collective national psyche is now more in tune with Nat King Cole’s “Smile, though your heart is breaking,” rather than Frank Sinatra’s, “When you’re smilin’, the whole world smiles with you.” My father taught me to smile always. At strangers, at work, especial- ly at home, to neighbors and to strangers. He never sat me down and Living Rosary told me, smile always even though you may not feel like it. He just did it. It is often better to learn by example rather than mere words. The Each year, to observe October as the lessons last longer. Month of the Holy Rosary, parish- We can overcome the nastiness of the last several months. In fact, the ioners at St. Joseph's in Rowena cele- simple fact that the election is over will hopefully provide the path brate with the Living Rosary. The tra- back to a better collective mood of joy ... if, that is, it is the path upon dition was begun in 1983. This year, which we follow Christ and his teachings. As a friend on Facebook Father Ariel Lagunilla, pastor, was on posted recently, “Now that the voting is over, maybe we can all go hand to begin the devotion. CCD stu- back to posting pictures of our food.” dents and representatives of parish I certainly don’t mean to minimize the seriousness of the issues at organizations gathered at the stake. They are critical to all of us and should be thoughtfully studied Stepping Stone Rosary on October 5 and considered. While the issues are of the highest importance, the pre- to pray especially for the safety of the unborn and for our country. sentations of those who would lead us resembled more a playground fight between two bullies. There is nothing to be gained other than to, well, learn from it and make sure it doesn’t happen again. (Please See PATTERSON/15) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 7 In these times of Abilene Pro-Life Work

trouble, remember Second from left in photo at left, Keelan O'Connell, LT, MC, USN, PG-1, of the National Capital to praise the Lord Consortium of Psychiatry, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, daughter of By Fr. Knick and Dennis & Janelle O'Connell of Sandie Knickerbocker Holy Family Catholic Church in Abilene and an alumnus of the "Fr. Bob, what are we to do? The country is falling Crossroads Pro-Life Walks apart; we hear conflicting Church teachings; the daily Across America organization, news reports injustice, immorality, and violence. I took time from their busy schedules as a Medical Student don't know what to think or pray anymore." in the Washington, D.C. area to "Just praise the Lord," Fr. Bob replied. hand-deliver donations totaling "Praise the Lord? I don't $636 collected at the understand. What is there to Quinceñera Mass of Carmen praise"? Elizabeth Castillo, a member of " As the Lord tells us through St. Vincent Pallotti Church in the Psalmist, 'He that offers Abilene, to representatives of praise as a sacrifice glorifies me' the Crossroads Pro-Life Walks " (50:23 NAB). Across American organization So what are we praising when L-R, Sydney Dunavin, director; we praise the Lord? Are we O'Connell, Jim Nolan, president, and Cliff Hearn, director. praising the dire condition of our (Related photo, bottom of page). world; or our weakness, willful- ness, and sin; or the tragedies we see and experience? No, when On October 15, 2016, Dr. Jim we offer God the sacrifice of Sulliman, left, in photo at left, praise, we acknowledge that God is God, worthy to be and Doug Eichorst joined other praised and glorified, not for "what he does, but sim- members of West Texans for Life ply because HE IS. ...By praise, the Spirit is joined to and the Catholic Pro-Life our spirits to bear witness that we are children of God Committee of the Abilene [Rom 8:16]. Praise embraces the other forms of prayer Deanery in a 100-Minute Prayer and carries them toward him who is its source and Vigil in front of the Federal goal; the 'one God, the Father, from whom are all Building and U.S. Post Office in things and for whom we exist' " [I Cor. 8:6] CCC downtown Abilene to protest the 100th Anniversary of Planned 2639. Parenthood. In praising the Lord, we sacrifice our desire to understand and to control other people and the circum- stances in which we live. The writer of the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that "...here we have no last- ing city, but we seek the one that is to come. Through him [Jesus] let us continually offer God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name (13:14-16). How are we to praise the Lord? The Eucharist is the ultimate sacrifice of praise. "It is 'the pure offering' of the whole Body of Christ to the glory of God's name" Carmen Elizabeth Castillo, at right, daughter of Ignacio (CCC 2643). The liturgical expressions of praise to the & Melissa Castillo, all of St. Vincent Pallotti Church in Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, Abilene, presented checks totaling $636 to Dr. Jim known as doxologies, have been used in the Sulliman, Chair of the Catholic Pro-Life Committee of Eucharistic celebration and in other liturgies and the Abilene Deanery, at the Committee's September prayers since the early centuries of the Church. 2016 meeting, for the benefit of the Crossroads Pro-Life (‘Doxology’ is an oral expression of praise and glorifi- Walks Across America organization. The checks were cation). We praise the Lord in every aspect of the collected at Carmen's Quinceñera Mass on August 13, Mass: in our decision to participate fully in the Liturgy 2016 at St. Vincent, and it was Carmen's request that the of the Word and Sacrament through attentiveness, collection taken up at that Mass be donated to the Crossroads Pro-Life Walks Across America organiza- prayer, and "in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, tion, after she was inspired by the Pro-Life witness of singing and making melody to the Lord with all [our] the Crossroads Pro-Life Walkers who stopped in heart..." (Eph 5:19 RSVCE). Abilene this past summer on their Walk from Los (Please See KNICKERBOCKERS/20) Angeles to Washington. Page 8 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus

Texas Conference of Catholic Bishops aggressor” (Address to Delegates of the deterrence as justification for the death penalty. But International Association of Penal Law, Vatican City, even if it did, states without the death penalty have Each year during October the Church observes October 24, 2014). either similar or lower crime rates than Texas (Death Respect Life Month. During this time, we pray and In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Penalty Information Center). The notion that the death reflect on the precious gift of life and recommit our- Church teaches that these non-violent ways of pre- penalty deters crime is false. It also feeds into the false selves to working toward a culture that truly wel- serving public order “are more in keeping with the belief that violence is the only remedy for violence. comes and protects human life in our society, from concrete conditions of the common good and more As a Church we accompany our brothers and sis- conception to natural death. Catholic teaching on in conformity with the dignity of the human person" ters, children,parents and loved ones as we see them abortion and euthanasia is very clear, as is our com- (no. 2267). In fact, in our country and in the State of suffer from the heinous and violent actions of oth- mitment to the ongoing work of improving living Texas the death penalty not only does not corre- ers. Only God can console them, yet we offer what conditions, education, and health-care access for all, spond to the common good, it actually does great comfort we can with our presence and prayer. The especially the poor and those without resources. harm to it. healing that comes from forgiveness has been a This year we bishops draw particular attention to First, the death penalty is disproportionately used powerful force in the lives of many families who our consistent call for the abolition of the death on the poor, racial minorities and the vulnerable. have experienced violence. Through our varied min- penalty in Texas, as we recognize this is undeniably The death penalty in and of itself perpetuates the istries, we offer counseling, personal support, and a pro-life issue. notion that life is in some instances disposable, or the grace of the sacraments to assist in the healing Catholic Social Teaching is a distinct body of can be judged of no worth. It is well documented process. Our ministry of healing and forgiveness is Church doctrine and an essential part of Catholic faith that those who can least afford a defense are most rooted in Jesus’ command to “be merciful, just as (Sharing Catholic Social Teaching, Challenges & likely to receive a death penalty; more than 90% of your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36). Directions, United States Conference of Catholic those on death row cannot afford an attorney. In Our call to abolish the death penalty is not a call Bishops). Rooted in the Scriptures, our Church’s 1990, the U.S. General Accounting Office reported to deny justice. On the contrary, it is a call to the teaching develops over centuries as the Church “a pattern of evidence indicating racial disparities in whole community to recognize that the death penal- encounters new social realities and challenges. The charging, sentencing and imposition of the death ty does not fulfill justice, nor does it console the same Holy Spirit who inspired the Scriptures is with penalty.” Furthermore, the death penalty has been inconsolable. Rather than seeking vengeance, for- the Church as we “read the signs of the times” in applied to persons of limited mental capacity. These giveness offers a victim’s family and the accused each new culture and age (Gaudium et Spes, no. 4). realities contribute to a callous disregard for the dig- true healing that comes through restorative justice Today, the Catechism of the Catholic Church pro- nity of human life. The death penalty negatively Capital punishment vitiates our hearts’ capacity vides a comprehensive summary of Catholic doctrine. influences our children’s moral formation and our for mercy and love. Due process for the accused, the Catholic teaching unequivocally states that “if culture as it fails to allow for mercy and redemption. incarceration of the guilty, and the protection of the non-lethal means are sufficient to defend and protect Secondly, scarce public resources are devoted to community serve justice and mercy. As a Church, people’s safety from the aggressor, authority will the death penalty, thus injuring the common good. we strive to walk with those who have time to limit itself to such means ...” (Catechism of the The cost of housing and feeding a prisoner for a life repent. As Scripture says, God “takes no pleasure in Catholic Church, no. 2267). This simply means if sentence is three times lower than the court costs the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn alternatives to the death penalty exist that serve to incurred by a lengthy appeals process for a prisoner from their ways and live” (Ezekiel 33:11). Our protect society from violent criminals, society “must on death row (Death Penalty Information Center, prison ministries are founded on the mission given limit itself” to these other means. There can be no deathpenaltyinfo.org). to us by the Lord to offer a call to repentance to doubt such means exist today in the United States, Thirdly, innocent people are killed by the govern- those who have lost hope, or whom the world has including in the State of Texas. ment on our behalf. There are at least 23 document- given up for lost. Pope Saint John Paul II wrote that conditions sug- ed cases of innocent people who were executed in May God give us the grace to witness to the digni- gesting the legitimate use of capital punishment are the United States in this century for capital crimes. ty of human life. May the Lord console the suffer- “very rare, if not practically non-existent” The American Bar Association has concluded that ing, protect our community, and grant conversion to (Evangelium Vitae, no. 56). Pope Francis has stated administration of the death penalty is “a haphazard those responsible for the inflicting of death and vio- that “it is impossible to imagine that states today maze of unfair practices with no internal consisten- lence upon others. In this Year of Mercy, may we be cannot make use of another means than capital pun- cy” and has called for a moratorium on executions. stewards of mercy to all. ishment to defend people’s lives from an unjust The Catechism does not recognize the prospect of The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 9

The Texas Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Agenda for the 85th Texas

Protecting Human Life • Support conscience protection legislation to ensure Catholics derive our special concern for the immi- Made in the image of God, all of our social obliga- that charities have the religious liberty protection to grant from the many biblical accounts of immigra- tions and rights flow from the inherent value of fulfill their mission without violating deeply held reli- tion. The Catholic Church supports immigration human life. The Catholic Church teaches that human gious beliefs related to the life and dignity of the reform that is merciful, charitable, and compassionate life is intrinsically valuable and should be protected human person and traditional family structures. to those here simply working for a better life, while from conception to natural death; including the calls • Support school choice tax credit scholarships to pro- also recognizing the legitimate responsibility of the to end abortion, prevent euthanasia, stop the destruc- vide educational choices for families. federal government to maintain control of our tion of human embryos, and oppose cloning. • Support Texas public school students’ receipt of in- nation’s borders. • Support state funding to abortion alternative state college tuition and financial aid. • Support comprehensive immigration reform includ- providers. • Support foster care system improvements, especial- ing a pathway to citizenship. • Support ban on research using fetal tissue acquired ly related to children aging out of foster care. • Oppose efforts to compel local and state agencies to from abortion. • Support increased recruitment, formation, and sup- enforce federal immigration laws. • Oppose all public funding to abortion providers, port for foster care families. • Oppose efforts to reduce access to education and including funds for contraceptives. • Support quality, affordable before- and after-school healthcare for immigrants. • Support the protection and improvement of air, land, care for public and private students. • Oppose efforts that hinder immigrants’ ability to get and water quality in Texas. Texas drivers’ licenses and IDs or birth certificates • Support efforts to reform the statute governing end- Health and Human Services for immigrants’ citizen children. of-life care to involve patients, families and physi- Health care is essential for the proper development • Support care for unaccompanied minors and reunite cians in protecting life and dignity, while preserving of life. Justice demands that medical and behavioral families separated by migration. ethical standards of care. health care be easily available for all. Particular care • Support alternatives to family detention of migrants • Support programs to encourage adoption and to must be offered to those who have special needs and refugees. assist families with parenting support. because of age, addiction, physical or mental disabili- • Support continued state and federal cooperation ty. with refugee resettlement. Children and Families • Support improvements to Texas’ critical public The Church supports legislation that promotes health safety net, especially expanding opportunities Protecting The Poor and Vulnerable strong, stable and healthy families. The Catholic for acquiring health insurance, including expanding The Catholic Church has always served the poor Church recognizes parents as the primary educators Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance and the vulnerable by providing services and advocat- of their children and supports the freedom of parents Program. ing for the public good. In difficult economic times, to choose a school for their children with a safe, pro- • Support access to basic and preventative health care those unable to help themselves are in particular need ductive learning environment, and rejects the notion for low income uninsured women, as well as prenatal of society’s compassion. We call on state leaders to that a parent’s address and income level should deter- and pediatric care for children. craft a balanced approach to addressing the social and mine a child’s educational or child care opportunities. • Support care for persons who are aging, live with economic needs, including adequately funding essen- • Promote the permanency of marriage between one disabilities, or need mental health services. tial public services. man and one woman. • Support abstinence-only education in Texas schools. Justice for Immigrants (Please See TCCB/21) Page 10 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus

Speaking of Saints Hugh of Lincoln: A busy bishop but never too busy for children — and his beloved pet swan

By Mary Lou Gibson

St. Hugh of Lincoln was one of the bright lights of the Middle Ages. In 1186, he became abbot of the first Carthusian monastery in England built by King Henry II as part of his penance for the murder of Thomas Becket some years earlier. Hugh restored the monastery of Witham Abbey in Somerset and revitalized the Diocese of Lincoln. This was the largest diocese in England and had not had a bishop in 18 years. Tom Cowan writes in The Way of the Saints that it was to the king's advantage to keep bishoprics vacant, because the revenues from the land and estates went to the crown. Hugh had been born at Avalon Castle, Gibson Burgundy in 1140 and made his profession in the Augustinian order when he was 15 and was ordained a deacon at 19. He became a Carthusian when he From left, Fr. Michael Udegbunam, pastor of St. Ann's in Colorado City; San Angelo Bishop Michael J. Sis; Joe Le was 23 and had a reputation as a fine preacher. Blanc, Holy Family-Abilene; Matthew Dane, Holy Family-Abilene; Msgr. Fred Nawarskas, pastor, Holy Family- When Hugh arrived at the site of the monastery at Witham, he Abilene; Dick Spiegel, Holy Family-Abilene, and Doug Eichorst, Holy Family-Abilene. (Photo by Loretta Fulton). found no building started and a dilapidated charter house. He soon became a “hands-on bishop.” He ordered the cathedral to Abilene cautioned about payday lending be repaired and he personally carried stone, cut it, and worked with the masons and builders. Hugh became known for his wis- By Loretta Fulton in Texas passing ordinances to par- vote to reign in payday lenders dur- dom and justice and his reputation for holiness and sanctity Special to The Angelus tially regulate the payday loan ing a Nov. 1 vote. A second reading spread all over England. His interest in education brought new industry. The reason city ordi- of the proposed ordinance and its life to schools in Lincoln and made them as good as those in ABILENE — Bishop Michael nances are needed in Texas is that adoption are scheduled for Nov. 15. Paris. Paul Burns writes in Butler's Lives of the Saints that Sis didn't mince words when he led the state Legislature has continual- People who seek loans from pay- Hugh was reputed to be the most learned monk in England. a forum in Abilene Oct. 28 on the ly refused to pass laws regulating day lenders typically cannot get Several popes recognized his wisdom and made him judge dele- evils of the payday and auto title the business. loans from traditional sources like gate for some of the most important cases of his time. loan industry. Sis served as vicar general under banks. Many are poor, making the Hugh was an incredibly busy bishop. He traveled constantly He told of a Texas-based payday Bishop Joe Vasquez in the Diocese high interest rates even harder to to consecrate churches, confirm children and bury the dead. In lending company that was fined of Austin before becoming bishop repay. one of his sermons on the care for the dead, he said, “Laity who $14 million by the federal govern- in San Angelo. Clients served by Catholic social practiced charity in the heart, truth on the lips, and chastity in ment because its training manual Vasquez has testified before the service ministries in the diocese the body would have an equal reward in heaven with monks and taught employees how to ensure state legislature in trying to get frequently tell of abusive practices nuns.”According to Cowan, Hugh defied social customs by that borrowers are unable to repay state regulations passed. of the lenders, Sis said, calling working directly with the leper colony, people who were the loans in a short amount of time, The influence of Vasquez, plus those practices a "clear example of shunned by the vast majority of healthy people in the Middle making it necessary for them to hearing stories of abuse from his usury." Ages. continually renew loans at high own flock in the Diocese of San Sis was the opening speaker for He was one of the leaders in denouncing the persecution of cost in interest and fees. Angelo, led Sis to be a vocal leader the forum in Abilene. Other speak- Jews that swept England in 1190-1191. When Jewish communi- "That's not free market," Sis said, in getting cities in Texas to pass ers were from the Baptist General ties in the diocese were attacked by anti-Semitic mobs, Hugh "that's exploitation and manipula- ordinances. Convention of Texas and Texas placed himself physically between the rioters and the Jews tion." "That's what fuels it for me," Sis Appleseed, a social justice law cen- In addition, Hugh was not timid in his dealings with royalty Other words like "usury" and said. ter based in Austin. Many in the and was both a friend and a critic of several kings. John "abuse" left no mistake that the His efforts were successful when audience were from Catholic bishop of the Diocese of San the San Angelo City Council unan- (Please See SAINTS/19) Angelo is strongly in favor of cities imously approved on first reading a (Please See PAYDAY/18) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 11 A Walk though The Doors

Above, Fr. Steve Hicks, third from right, with Fr. Ryan Rojo, parochial vicar at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, third from left, and with Fr. Fabian Maria of Jesus Crucified, center, Brother Joseph Mary, second from right, and other brothers from the Mt. Carmel Hermitage, after the hermits entered the cathedral through the Holy Doors of Mercy, at right. Above, the hermits walking through the Doors of Mercy. (Courtesy photos). Page 12 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 13 Doors may close, Follow Pope Francis’ example of ‘Mercy Fridays’

By Effie Caldarola Catholic press. but mercy remains Catholic News Service But you know how it goes with the news cycle. Something else comes along It was all over Facebook when I and our attention is diverted. Before you checked my posts the other day. know it, Nov. 20 will be here and we'll There was Pope Francis, clad in the ask ourselves, Just what did I do in the typical hospital green scrubs, with a Year of Mercy? mask as well, visiting the newborn sec- Sometimes, I think our efforts are tion of an Italian hospital, including the stymied by the thought that we have to intensive care unit where five little ones do something big to make it count. So struggled for survival then we procrastinate and do nothing. due to early births or During the Year of Mercy, the U.S. other complications. Catholic bishops' website has had sug- Facebook loves stories gestions for performing acts of mercy, about babies, dogs and and here's one of them: Eat lunch with cats. If you can get all someone who may be lonesome. Now, three in one story, really, how tough is that? Facebook really eats it Do you work in an office or in a school up. But if instead you where, at lunchtime, some people seem bring in a smiling pope always to be alone? How much effort dressed in hospital does it take to join them? scrubs holding a baby, Or do you have an elderly relative who that's a winner as well. might love a chatty phone call today? What I loved about the Hey, that's mercy, too. Pope Francis story was A good place to start would be to that it was just one more reread the corporal and spiritual works of chapter in the pontiff's mercy, our Christian road map to com- "Mercy Friday" visits. I passionate action. Selected scenes from the St. Ann’s Church walk through the Doors of Mercy at the wish all of his monthly Kerry Weber actually beat Pope Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Midland, Sunday, October 9, 2016. Fridays had attracted as Francis to the punch on mercy by writing much attention. a great little book a few years ago called On a recent Friday, he "Mercy in the City." It recounts her visited 20 former prosti- efforts during Lent to perform each cor- tutes at a charity that poral work of mercy. It's entertaining and “You are a section in the pipeline of God’s mercy, assists women who have inspiring to see her moving around New been trafficked. These York City endeavoring to visit a prison with a valve at each end. The abundant supply will particular women were or spend the night in a homeless shelter. from Africa, Italy and Weber's book would make a great text never end. The question is whether you will keep those Eastern Europe, and the for a faith formation class, and it's a great valves open for inflow and outflow. Will you keep pope's visit not only idea as well. comforted them on their What if we kept a mercy journal as we yourself open to receiving the mercy of God, and will difficult journey, it also try to delve into practices of mercy? Just called attention to one of a simple little notebook in which we you continue to pass it on?” the great problems of our chronicle each effort, and its outcome age: human trafficking. might focus our attention on mercy. We are still in the Some of Pope Francis' other ventures — Bishop Michael J. Sis Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy, included a Friday visit to sick children which Pope Francis proclaimed from during a trip to Poland and a visit to eld- Dec. 8, 2015, until Nov. 20, 2016. This erly priests. He spent one Friday with Photos by Karen J. Patterson Year of Mercy is called "extraordinary" developmentally disabled patients at a because it fell out of the normal 25-year L'Arche community. rotation for jubilee years. It's a bonus Great leaders lead by example. Pope year, one might say, and when it was Francis has set the course. What will we Related Stories, Photos: announced, it garnered all kinds of atten- do? Bishop Sis’ column on the closing of the Year of Mercy, Pg. 3 tion in church bulletins and in the A Walk through The Doors, Pg 11 Page 14 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics Youth banish indifference The many problems with surrogacy with concrete, little steps By Fr. Tad Pacholczyk describing her own experience of engaging a sur- By Maria-Pia Negro Chin rogate in a 2008 New York Times interview, Catholic News Service Sometimes when there is infertility in marriage, speaks frankly: “We encountered the wink-nod couples make the decision to seek out the services rule: Surrogates would never say they were moti- This Year of Mercy, young people have been rediscovering the mean- of a surrogate in order to have a child. A surro- vated to carry a child for another couple just for ing of our mission to be signs and instruments of God's loving mercy. gate is a woman who agrees to be implanted with money; they were all motivated by altruism. This From mercy-filled events in parishes, to teenagers' initia- an embryo produced by in vitro fertilization gentle hypocrisy allows surrogacy to take place. tives, to the emphasis on "apostles of mercy" such as St. (IVF) and to hand over the Without it, both sides would have to acknowledge John Paul II and St. Faustina Kowalska, this jubilee has newborn baby to the couple the deep cultural revulsion against attaching a offered the world's youth opportunities to experience and upon completion of the ges- dollar figure to the creation of a human life.” share mercy. tation and birth. In recent Indeed, surrogacy involves turning human life In the United States, young people have heeded the call years, gestational surrogacy into a commodity on multiple levels, as Kathleen to practice works of mercy. In the Diocese of Arlington, has become a multi-million Sloan recently described in testimony given to a Virginia, about 830 young people participated in 160 dollar industry, attracting a Minnesota state commission studying the issue. A Chin service projects while reflecting on the corporal works of broad clientele ranging from seemingly unlikely opponent of the procedure, mercy at the diocese's annual summer work-camp. married couples to single Sloan works as a pro-abortion feminist and direc- During the year, the diocesan youth ministry office encouraged youth women, gay couples to any- tor of the National Organization for Women in "to recognize mercy shown to us through the love and goodness of one else with the desire for a Pacholczyk Connecticut. On gestational surrogacy, however, Christ ... (which) commands that we share that mercy with others." baby and the ability to she agrees with pro-life criticisms, noting how it In New York, high schoolers said they participated in the Year of finance the undertaking. Surrogacy raises grave involves “children intentionally severed from Mercy by incorporating patience and reflection into their daily lives, moral concerns, and powerfully undermines the genetic and biological sources of identity, human which led them to be more helpful to others, ask for forgiveness and be dignity of human procreation, particularly when it rights be damned. In essence, it is the ultimate more forgiving. comes to the women and children involved in the manifestation of the neoliberal project of capital- The beautiful opportunity of this Year of Mercy was that it gave us process. ist commodification of all life to create profit and assurance of God's welcoming love while calling us to get out of our- One of the significant moral concerns around fulfill the narcissistic desires of an entitled elite.” selves to serve others. surrogacy is that it introduces fractures into par- Those narcissistic desires are readily catered to Pope Francis recently said that to genuinely try to imitate God's enthood by multiplying parental roles. Surrogacy by an IVF industry that generates offspring in the mercy, one can practice "giving" and "forgiving." coerces children into situations where they are laboratory for clients. In this process, extra Students from the campus ministry at Rowan University in New subjected to the unhealthy stresses of ambiguous embryonic humans are produced, stored and (Please See CHIN/23) or split origins, perhaps being conceived from oftentimes orphaned in freezers, or even discard- one woman’s egg, gestated by another woman, ed outright by throwing them away as “biomed- raised by a third, and maybe even dissociated ical waste.” In fact, the process of IVF, central to Jóvenes destierran la indiferencia from their father by anonymous sperm donation. the practice of surrogacy, generally ends up Such practices end up being profoundly unfair killing more babies than it delivers. Coupled with con pequeños pasos concretos and dehumanizing for the children caught in the the fact that contracting couples can pressure the web of the process. One woman, who was herself surrogate mother to undergo an abortion if the in- conceived by anonymous sperm donation, utero child appears to be “imperfect,” or to elimi- By Maria-Pia Negro Chin describes her experience this way: “My existence nate a twin through “selective reduction” in a Catholic News Service owed almost nothing to the serendipitous nature multiple pregnancy, it can hardly be disputed that of normal human reproduction, where babies are children are pawns in the merciless endgame of Este Año de la Misericordia, los jóvenes han estado redescubriendo the natural progression of mutually fulfilling adult satisfying parental and customer desires and cor- el sentido de nuestra misión de ser signo e instrumento de la amorosa relationships, but rather represented a verbal con- porate profit motives. misericordia de Dios. tract, a financial transaction and a cold, clinical A woman’s reproductive powers and her God- Participando en eventos parroquiales enfocados en la misericordia, harnessing of medical technology.” Moreover, given fecundity should never be reduced to the mediante iniciativas de los adolescentes, y mostrando énfasis en los women who sign up as surrogates often feel status of a “gestator for hire” or a “breeder” as "apóstoles de la misericordia" como San Juan Pablo II y Santa Faustina deeply conflicted about giving up the baby at they are sometimes called by industry insiders, Kowalska, este jubileo ha ofrecido oportunidades para los jóvenes del birth and tearing asunder an important 9 month nor should women be exploited by allowing pay- mundo para experimentar y compartir esta misericordia. connection and relationship that had been careful- ment for harvesting their eggs. A woman’s pro- En los Estados Unidos, los jóvenes respondieron al llamado de prac- ly developed and nurtured. creative powers ought to be shared uniquely ticar las obras de misericordia. En la Diócesis de Arlington, Virginia, There can be no doubt that the hawkers and through marital acts with her husband, so that all unos 830 jóvenes participaron en 160 proyectos de servicio mientras promoters of surrogacy exploit vulnerable, finan- the children born of her are genetically and other- profundizaban en las obras de misericordia corporales durante "work cially challenged women, often in overseas set- wise her own. All children merit and deserve this camp", el campamento anual de verano de la diócesis. tings, to undergo the risks of drug-induced artifi- loving consideration and assurance of protection Durante el año, la oficina de pastoral juvenil diocesana animó a los cial pregnancy. While the proponents of the pro- at the point of their fragile and sacred beginnings. jóvenes "a reconocer la misericordia mostrada a nosotros a través del cedure will often portray these women as moti- amor y la bondad de Cristo ... (la cual) nos motiva a compartirla con vated primarily by a desire to help others, surro- Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doctorate los demás". gates themselves will privately note how they do in neuroscience from Yale and did post-doctoral work En Nueva York, estudiantes de secundaria dijeron que participaron en it for the money, and in the absence of substantial at Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of Fall River, el Año de la Misericordia mediante la incorporación de la paciencia y payments, wouldn’t be willing to move ahead MA, and serves as the Director of Education at The la reflexión diaria, lo que les llevó a ser más serviciales con los demás, with the arduous procedure. Alex Kuczynski, National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. (Mira JOVENES/23) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 15 Catholic Voices Why are outward signs of faith considered offensive? By Effie Caldarola young son I spotted walking from the synagogue, For example, "pray with physical object." I envision Catholic News Service dressed in matching black pants, jackets and black hats, someone silently praying with her rosary. sporting the traditional Jewish side curls. Of the Christian group, 23 percent thought this might I am settling into my cramped seat in a small aircraft Another day, it is my friends who work in a refugee make others uncomfortable, but only 12 percent of the when I smell it: the nauseating odor of resettlement, who are converts to Islam, wearing their agnostics and atheists replied they would be uncomfort- fried food in close quarters. I turn, tight-fitting head coverings. able. Good news so far. ready to glare, when I see that the cul- I love Ash Wednesday's dark smudges, Good Friday's Likewise, only 5 percent of nonbelievers reported dis- prit, a middle-aged man, is bowed in public processions. comfort if you decline food or beverage for religious prayer over his meal, hands folded, However, in our pluralistic society, some take offense reasons while 15 percent of Christians expected they eyes closed. at outward signs of faith. might be uncomfortable. So maybe saying no to that All is forgiven. I am a pushover for What is offensive to others? hamburger because it's a Lenten Friday isn't offensive. religious witness. As a person of faith, The writer Leah Libresco was curious about that so But here's a kicker: What made the nonbelievers I welcome the expressions of others on she commissioned a survey of two groups, one Christian uncomfortable, way more than the Christians expected, their faith journey, whether my own and the other agnostic and atheist. She asked the was someone saying, "I'll pray for you," or asking to tradition or another. I like to see people Caldarola Christian group if they would expect someone to be pray with you. seeking God. uncomfortable by certain actions, and she asked the non- On a recent drive home, it was a Jewish man and his believers if they are uncomfortable by those actions. (Please See CALDAROLA/23) PATTERSON

(From 6) person smile. Cartoon Corner On many more occasions than The first time the word ‘smile’ not, she succeeds. Before she appears in the Bible is in Genesis walks away, bags in hand, the 33. It comes when Jacob and his cashier is not just smiling, but is brother Esau make peace with having a conversation with her. one another. The two had a long- Other times, the smile is fleeting, running contentious relationship, but at least it was there for a and after having been separated moment and took the place of a for several years, they see each lonelier, unhappy expression. other again. First they embrace Two things happen for sure and weep. Then they attempt to when my wife carries out her mis- exchange peace offerings in the sion at the store: It makes her feel form of livestock, a custom at the better that someone’s day was time. But Esau turns down brightened. And it makes the per- Jacob’s offering, insisting he has son on the receiving end feel bet- plenty of sheep and cattle. But ter. Maybe, for whatever reason, Jacob insists. Finally, a look of he or she hadn’t felt that in a joy comes across both and they while, or maybe the smile spreads forget their differences, choosing because someone took the time to instead to remember the love that make a difference. Or maybe had always been there. both. “What a relief to see your So smile. Though your heart friendly smile,” Jacob tells his may be breaking. As George brother. "It is like seeing the face Weigel recently wrote, our country of God.” will survive this, too. If it doesn’t, What beauty is contained in we’re already beyond repair. those words. The only way it will not survive Your friendly smile is like seeing is if we turn from God — and stay the face of God! turned away from each other. That would be the finest com- So smile. As Job said, “I will pliment anyone could ever pay forget my complaints. I will me. change my expression. And I will Every time my wife goes to the smile.” grocery store, she goes with a list If Job can do it, so can we. and a mission. If she comes upon Trite? Ridiculous? Consider St. a cashier and finds he is having a Teresa of Calcutta’s words: “Peace bad day or is otherwise noticeably begins with a smile.” irritated or grumpy, she makes it And that is just what is needed her personal goal to make that and what we can make happen. Page 16 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus Catholic Voices Our timidity in the face of God’s abundance By Fr. Ron Rolheiser than your share, than there won’t be enough tion: A seminary professor whom I know gives us this perennial invitation: Come to for everyone. Resources are limited, so if shares this story. He’s been teaching semi- the waters, come without money, come with- My youth had both its strengths and its anyone gets too much, someone gets too lit- narians for many years and in recent years, out merit because God’s gift is as plentiful, weaknesses. I grew up on a farm in heart of tle. when teaching about the sacrament of available, and as free as the air we breathe. the Canadian prairies, a second-generation But such an upbringing also has its down- penance, is frequently asked this question, The Gospel of Luke recounts an incident immigrant. Our family side: When everything has to be measured- often as the first question in the class: where Peter, just after he had spent an entire was a large one and the out to ensure that there’s enough for every- “When can I refuse absolution? When do I night fishing and had caught nothing, is told small farm we lived on one and you live with the underlying fear not grant forgiveness?” The anxiety to cast out his net one more time and, this gave us enough to live on, that there might not be enough, you can easi- expressed here is not, I believe, triggered by time, Peter’s net catches so many fish that though just enough. There ly end-up with a sense of scarcity rather than a need for power but by a very sincere fear the weight of the catch threatens to sink two were never any extras. We of abundance and an inclination towards that we have to be rather scrupulous in hand- boats. Peter reacts by falling on his knees were never hungry or gen- stinginess rather than generosity. ing out God’s mercy, that we shouldn’t be and confessing his sinfulness. But, as the text uinely poor, but we lived A mindset of scarcity rather than of abun- handing out cheap grace. And, undergirding makes clear, that’s not the proper reaction in in a conscriptive frugality. dance debilitates us in several ways: First, it that fear, I believe, is the unconscious notion the face of over-abundance. Peter is wrongly You were given what you tends to leave us standing before life’s abun- that God, too, works out of a sense of scarci- fearful, in effect, wanting that over-abun- needed, but rarely any- Fr. Rolheiser dance too timid to celebrate life with any ty rather than of abundance, and that God’s dance to go away; when what Jesus wants thing extra. You got just one exuberance. Life is too equated with frugali- mercies, like our own resources, are limited from him in the face of that over-abundance portion of the main course at a meal and one ty and you are forever haunted by guilt in the and need to be measured out very sparingly. is to go out to the world and share with oth- dessert because these had to be measured out face of life’s goodness and especially before But that’s not the God whom Jesus incar- ers that unimaginable grace. in a way that left enough for everyone. And I any experience of luxury, not unlike the dis- nated and revealed. The Gospels, rather, What God’s over-abundance is meant to lived happily inside that, taking for granted comfort felt by Jesus’ disciples when they reveal a God who is prodigal beyond all our teach us is that, in the face of limitless grace, that this was the way life was meant to be, are face to face with a prodigal woman lav- standards and beyond our imagination. The we may never refuse anyone absolution. assuming that all resources are limited and ishly anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive God of the Gospels is the Sower who, ——— you shouldn’t ever be asking for or taking perfume. Inside a mindset of scarcity there’s because he has unlimited seeds, scatters Ronald Rolheiser, a Roman Catholic priest more than what’s necessary. the perennial temptation to falsely idealize those seeds everywhere without discrimina- and member of the Missionary Oblates of And such a background has its strengths: suffering and poverty and have them replace tion: on the road, in the ditches, in the thorn Mary Immaculate, is president of the Oblate You grow into adulthood with the sense that grace and abundance as God’s real gift to us. bushes, in bad soil, and in good soil. School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas. there’s no free lunch, you need to earn what More crippling still is the fact that a sense of Moreover that prodigal Sower is also the He is a community-builder, lecturer and you eat. You know too that you shouldn’t be scarcity too often gives us a concept of a God of creation, that is, the God who has writer. His books are popular throughout the taking more than your share because the God who is limited and who is frugal rather created and continues to create hundreds of English-speaking world and his weekly col- goods of this world are limited and meant to than prodigal. But that isn’t the God of Jesus. billions of galaxies and billions and billions umn is carried by more than seventy news- be shared with everyone. If you take more Allow me just one, rather pointed, illustra- of human beings. And this prodigal God papers worldwide. The problem with our ‘You go girl’ culture By Most Rev. Robert Barron much as the next guy. But the father of wrong,” and he responds, “You mean inevitably show up. And she has to show Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles the Simpson family is stupid, boorish, Lisa?” her worth in a domineering way, that is to drunk most of the time, irresponsible, If you think this male-bashing is say, over and against the men. For her to Two recent films, Deepwater Horizon comically incompetent, and childish. In restricted to cartoons, think again. Ray appear strong, they have to appear weak. with Mark Wahlberg and Sully starring the cartoon world, he is echoed, of Romano’s character in Everyone Loves For a particularly good case in point, Tom Hanks, represent course, by Family Guy’s Peter Griffin, Raymond, Ed O’Neill’s hopeless father in watch the most recent Star Wars film. something of a breath who is similarly buffoonish. In both Married With Children, and Ty Burrell's Now I perfectly understand the legiti- of fresh air, for both cases, the wives—Marge in The hapless goofball in Modern Family—all macy of feminist concerns regarding the movies feature men Simpsons and Lois in Family Guy—have are variations on the Homer Simpson portrayal of women in the media as con- who are intelligent, the brains, the competence, and the moral theme. Add to all this the presentation of sistently demure, retiring, and subservient virtuous, and quietly responsibility. And in The Simpsons, fathers as not just inept, but horrific in to men. I grant that, in most of the heroic. If this strikes Homer is imitated by his son Bart, who is Game of Thrones, and the absent, indif- action/adventure movies that I saw grow- you as a banal obser- sneaky, stupid, and unmotivated, and ferent fathers of Stranger Things. ing up, women would typically twist an vation, that just means Marge by daughter Lisa, who is hyper- And I wonder whether you’ve noticed a ankle or get captured and then require you haven’t been fol- smart, uber-competent, and morally alert. character that can be found in practically rescuing by the swashbuckling male lowing much of the In one memorable episode, Lisa is wor- every movie made today? I call her the hero—and I realize how galling this must popular culture for the Bishop Barron ried that she has inherited her father’s ter- “all conquering female.” Almost without have been to generations of women. And past twenty years. rible qualities but is relieved to discover, exception, she is underestimated by men therefore, a certain correction was One of the distinctive marks of films by the show’s end, that the “stupid gene” and then proves herself more intelligent, undoubtedly in order. But what is prob- and television programs the last couple of is communicated only to the males in the cleverer, more courageous, and more lematic now is the Nietzschean quality of decades has been the Homer Simpson line. In another of my favorite skilled than any man. Whether we’re the reaction, by which I mean, the insis- Simpsonization of men. Don’t get me Simpsons scenes, Homer is told, at a talking about a romantic comedy, an tence that female power has to be assert wrong: I’m a big fan of the The moment of moral crisis, to consult that office-drama, or an adventure movie, the Simpsons and laugh at Homer’s antics as “little voice that tells you right from all conquering female will almost (Please See BARRON/23) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 17 ‘Monk’s Tale’: A story of a successful university presidency By Fr. William J. Byron, SJ momentum that makes a university great. ears were not merely ornamental. His immediate predecessor in the presidency of There is a chapter in this book for each of the Holy Cross Father Edward A. "Monk" Malloy Notre Dame was the legendary Holy Cross Father 18 years of the Malloy presidency. Accordingly, has just produced Volume 3 of his three-part Theodore M. Hesburgh, who occupied that office we get an introduction to every commencement memoir "Monk's Tale." This book is a chronologi- for 35 years. Father Hesburgh was the best-known speaker and honorary degree recipient, although cal tour of his 18-year presidency of the Catholic priest in the U.S. and the best-known we get only the title, not the content, of the many University of Notre Dame. The first two volumes university president -- public or private -- in the talks and formal addresses given by the president traced his life from birth through schooling on to nation. He could be succeeded, people thought, each year. seminary and ordination up to his presidential but never replaced. Father Malloy is famous for speaking without years. Father Malloy stepped into the job and up to the script or notes, so the ideas in his homilies and There are 18 chapters in Volume 3; they enable challenge by being himself, surrounding himself formal speeches, not to mention off-the-cuff Byron the reader to get inside the mind of this man as with able administrators, staying in touch with remarks, are not carried in full in the pages of this well as enjoy an over-the-shoulder look at the life faculty and students (living in a dorm and teach- book. Meetings — an endless stream, it seems — of a peripatetic university president. It is not my ing a class). are mentioned but agendas are, for the most part, intention to review the book here; I simply want He listened full circle — to trustees, faculty, not given. to underscore a few of the things that Father staff, students, parents, alumni, as well as to civic, Malloy sees as important in maintaining the church, national and international leaders. His (Please See BYRON/22) Is dialysis required? / Scruffy character in church By Fr. Kenneth Doyle reasonable hope of benefit or entail an thought this was un-Christian and felt Sadducees, who did not believe in an after- Catholic News Service excessive burden, or impose excessive sorry about the treatment he received. life; they wanted to know about a woman expense on the family or the community" What if it were Jesus? (Wisconsin) who had had seven spouses successively, Q. My Dad is almost 89 years old. In (No. 57). A. Within any group setting, there is a and which man would be her husband in 1987, he had a double bypass. Right Your father can legitimately opt instead natural awkwardness when someone's heaven. Jesus explained that "when they now he has slow-growing prostate can- for what is sometimes termed "medical appearance or behavior departs from the rise from the dead, they neither marry nor cer, diabetes and high management without dialysis," involving ordinary. As you rightly indicate, though, are given in marriage, but they are like the blood pressure. He is palliative care to keep him as comfortable the Christian community is not about angels in heaven" (Mk 12:25). also suffering from as possible. appearances. The man should not have Some have interpreted these words -- depression (my mom Any moral decision depends, of course, been judged for his "scruffiness," and erroneously -- to mean that there will be passed away in 2010), on the attendant circumstances. If, on the when he came up for the sign of peace, he no continuing and special relationship in and he looks forward other hand, your father were 30 years should have been greeted warmly and heaven between earthly spouses. Instead, to dying. younger, with no life-threatening diseases, with acceptance. what Christ simply meant was that the He found out recent- and dialysis were likely to offer him many But the fact that he sat on the floor and institution of marriage, as we have known ly that he has only 35 more years of life -- and if, while in the that he approached the altar prematurely it on earth, will be unnecessary in heaven. percent kidney func- throes of depression, he were motivated did create a natural concern. Perhaps the There will be no need for procreation tion. If dialysis is pre- Doyle chiefly by a desire to end his life -- then usher feared that the man posed a threat to because no one will ever die; human com- scribed, from a Catholic point of view, the moral calculus might well produce a the priest-celebrant -- although the "look" panionship will not be required to satisfy would he have to undergo it? (Knox, different result, and dialysis would be the was clearly out of place. our loneliness because the desire for inti- Indiana) proper moral choice. The response of the worshipping com- macy will be fulfilled by knowing the I'm looking at your father's situation munity was, I hope, generally one of sym- Lord personally. A. The short and simple answer is "No." from afar and based on the information pathy for the man with a desire to offer Still, though, the church does believe In your father's circumstances, he would supplied. For your father's peace of mind, him assistance should he need it. I hope, that the relationships we have enjoyed on be under no ethical obligation to start he might want to discuss his individual too, that the usher, having followed the earth will be transformed and enhanced as dialysis. Catholic moral teaching does not situation with a priest, Catholic ethicist or man to the back of church, engaged him in they continue in heaven. A prayer fre- require us to use every possible treatment chaplain -- who, I am confident, would conversation to help determine his needs quently used at the end of funeral Masses to preserve and prolong life. offer him this same comforting advice. and to assure him that he was welcome. has the priest saying, "Before we go our Dialysis, in this case, could surely be separate ways, let us take leave of our judged an "extraordinary" or "dispropor- Q. A couple of weeks ago, a clean but Q. My wife passed away three years brother/sister. May our farewell express tionate" means in terms of the benefit it scruffy fellow came into Mass and sat ago, and I miss her very much. We our affection for him/her; may it ease our might offer. on the floor in the back of our church. were married for 63 years. What are sadness and strengthen our hope. One day This moral principle is most clearly When it came time for the sign of the church's thoughts on the hereafter? we shall joyfully greet him/her again expressed in the "Ethical and Religious peace, he came forward to shake hands Will we still be man and wife? when the love of Christ, which conquers Directives for Catholic Health Care and people were a little put off. Then, (Milford, Iowa) all things, destroys even death itself." Services" published in 2009 by the U.S. when Communion came, he A. Your question is one frequently Conference of Catholic Bishops, which approached the altar before anyone else asked by those who are mourning deeply Questions may be sent to Father states: "A person may forgo extraordinary had left their pews. the death of a spouse. The response Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@ or disproportionate means of preserving A church usher quickly got behind should bring you some comfort. gmail.com and 30 Columbia Circle Dr. life. Disproportionate means are those that him, gave him a "look" and then fol- In one Gospel story (Mark 12:18-27), a Albany, New York 12203. in the patient's judgment do not offer a lowed him to the back of the church. I question is posed to Jesus by the Page 18 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus PAYDAY

(From 10) Logsdon Chapel on the campus of Baptist- Cities must take the lead, speakers said, loan business charges a fee to the consumer affiliated Hardin-Simmons University. A until — or unless — the state legislature for obtaining the loan from the non- congregations in Abilene, including Father number of local Baptists were present for steps up to pass statewide regulations. So licensed third party. Fred Nawarskas and Father Adam Droll of the forum, as well as people from other far, efforts have died in committee without Facts and figures distributed on handouts Holy Family Catholic Church, and several denominations. getting to the voting stage. at the forum were startling. The data members of Holy Family and St. Francis Several people came from Highland Rep. Tom Craddick, Republican from showed that the cost to repay a $500 loan congregations. Michael Barba, associate Church of Christ, which also is leading an Midland, and former state Rep. Wendy can reach over $3,000 due to the loan be director of public policy for the Texas effort to get cities to pass ordinances that Davis of Fort first introduced a joint bill in renewed continually because the borrower Catholic Conference of Bishops, also would regulate the payday loan practices. 2011. It did not make it out of committee, can not make payments. The average annu- spoke. Bishop Sis, in opening the forum, noted and has suffered the same fate since. al percentage rate for payday and auto title Mary Cooksey. program director for the the diversity of people present and said that However, in 2011, the city of Dallas loans in Texas in 2015 ranged from 216 to Abilene office of 211 Texas: A Call for even though he was involved and that the became the first in Texas to pass an ordi- 567 percent. Help, said in an interview that usury, the forum was being held at a Baptist institu- nance partially regulating the industry. Speakers like Brett M. Merfish, an attor- practice of charging exorbitant interest tion, the issue has touched people of all Today, 37 cities have passed ordinances, all ney with Texas Appleseed, said those statis- rates, making it virtually impossible to get faiths. using a model prepared by the Texas tics represent some of the most vulnerable out of debt, strips people of their dignity. "It has to do with the well-being of our Municipal League. citizens, people who are in desperate finan- "Victimizing anyone in any way is not citizens," he said. The reason payday loans are not regulat- cial situations and don’t see any other way right," Cooksey said. "Social justice is a A similar forum was held in San Angelo, ed by current state law in Texas is that the out. very important thing to me. That's who I with the Nov. 1 vote coming as a result. businesses obtain credit for a consumer “When you’re desperate,” Merfish said, am." The same thing can happen in Abilene, he from an independent third-party lender, “you don’t always make the best deci- Cooksey’s agency coordinates with 40 said, if enough people get behind the move- according to the Texas Office of Consumer sions.” charities, she said, and many of the clients ment. Credit Commissioner. In Texas, the third- are victims of payday loan practices. "It doesn't take long to get it going," Sis party lender is not licensed, according to The meeting in Abilene was held in said. the commissioner's website. The payday BISHOP

(From 3) counsel the doubtful, instruct the igno- Another way to experience God’s can also be prayed without beads, using rant, admonish sinners, comfort the mercy after the closing of the Jubilee Year the fingers to count the prayers. It can be four conditions listed above and com- afflicted, forgive offenses, bear patiently of Mercy is through the Jesus Prayer. I prayed at any time, but many people pray pleting any of the holy actions through those who do us ill, and pray for the liv- recommend the regular use of the Jesus it at 3:00 p.m. on Fridays, which is the which the Church grants a plenary indul- ing and the dead. I encourage all believ- Prayer as a simple way to keep in touch Hour of Mercy. The Divine Mercy gence. Some of the more common of ers to continue practicing these merciful with the mercy of God throughout our Chaplet is based on the apparitions of these actions are the following: actions often, no matter what year it is. lives. The typical formulation of the Jesus to Saint Faustina Kowalska, the • Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament for Where do we find mercy for ourselves Jesus Prayer is this: “Lord Jesus Christ, Polish religious sister who is known as at least one half hour after the Jubilee Year of Mercy is over? Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” "the Apostle of Mercy." The particular • The pious exercise of the Way of the The mercy of God is still available to us This has been a very popular prayer since prayers of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy Cross in many ways, for his mercy is everlast- the first few centuries of Christianity. It are easy to find in many places online, • Praying the Rosary with others ing. We should pray the Our Father every is especially used in the spirituality of such as www.thedivinemercy.org • The devout reading or listening to the day, and that prayer includes the words, Eastern Orthodox Christians, but also As we say goodbye to the Extraordinary Sacred Scriptures for at least one half “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive among Catholics around the world. Jubilee Year of Mercy, we give thanks for hour those who trespass against us.” That is a The Jesus Prayer is often used as a tool so many graces poured out by God in this • Spending at least three entire days in the daily reminder both to open our hearts to for focusing our hearts in prayer. The year. We then look forward and commit spiritual exercises of a retreat receive mercy and to extend mercy to way it is typically practiced is very sim- ourselves to giving and receiving mercy After the Jubilee Year of Mercy is over, those around us. ple. You relax and let go of distractions. all the days of our lives. don’t forget that we are all still called to Christ also gave us the profound experi- Lead your mind from your head to your A visual image from West Texas can be merciful. As Pope Francis wrote, ence of receiving mercy through the heart. Say the Jesus Prayer slowly and serve to illustrate where we go from here “Wherever there are Christians, everyone Sacrament of Penance. We don’t have to reverently, either mentally or quietly with after the closing of the Year of Mercy: should find an oasis of mercy.” wait until another Jubilee Year to go to your lips: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, You are a section in the pipeline of God’s (Misericordiae Vultus, 12) This is true in Confession. Our priests make this beauti- have mercy on me, a sinner.” Repeat the mercy, with a valve at each end. The any year. ful sacrament available to us so that we prayer peacefully and patiently, with abundant supply will never end. The The most basic way to be merciful is to may be reconciled with God through the attention to God’s presence. The Jesus question is whether you will keep those practice the corporal and spiritual works saving power of Jesus Christ on a regular Prayer keeps the name of Jesus in our valves open for inflow and outflow. Will of mercy. The seven corporal works of basis. Going to Confession is an act of heart and reminds us to admit that each you keep yourself open to receiving the mercy are these: feed the hungry, give hope. It is a reminder that we are works one of us is in need of God’s mercy. mercy of God, and will you continue to drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, wel- of art in progress, and God is the artist. One of the most popular prayers of pass it on? come the stranger, heal the sick, visit the God is the sculptor, and we are the clay. mercy among Roman Catholics is the imprisoned, and bury the dead. The He works out the imperfections. He Chaplet of Divine Mercy. This chaplet is seven spiritual works of mercy are these: molds us and shapes us lovingly. typically prayed on Rosary beads, but it The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 19 WOMEN SAINTS (From 5) (From 10) and reportedly kept a wild swan as a pet. Sean Kelly and Rosemary Rogers write in Following Robb’s presentation and a raffle prize drawing, women congre- Delaney writes in The Dictionary of Saints The Saint-a-Day Guide that the bird followed gated in the hotel’s lobby to wait for the next speaker. One attendee, Deborah that he had differences with Henry II over the him everywhere, attacking anyone who Montano, said she was impressed by the crowd. “It’s just terrific,” she said. appointment of seculars to ecclesiastical posi- approached, and would “bury its head and “The speakers were so excellent, starting with Dr. Margarett Schlientz.” tions. He also refused to contribute to King long neck in Hugh's wide sleeves.” Montano said she identified most, however, with Robb because the two are Richard I's war chest to finance foreign wars When Hugh returned from a diplomatic mis- both mothers whose children have been seriously ill; Montano’s grown son had in 1197 and when he defied King John on sion to France for King John in 1199, he fell cancer when he was 7 years old. “Coming to something like this and listening several occasions, Hugh earned the nickname ill and after several months, died on to the experiences (of others) helps our young mothers,” Montano said. “Hammerking.” November 16, 1200. The kings of England “These ladies have such a heart and joy for Jesus,” added Yevonne He also criticized the Forest Laws, which and Scotland accompanied his body on its Buckner, of San Angelo. “I’m just grateful they came to share with all of us.” Events such as the Catholic Women’s Conference reignite one’s faith, allowed royal foresters to punish the poor return to Lincoln. He was canonized by Pope Buckner said. “It’s like breathing life into your spirit,” she said. “We’re set who hunted in and collected firewood from Honorius III in 1220, the first Carthusian to back on fire and go back out into the world to share it with others.” the king's forests and even excommunicated be so honored. His feast day is November 17. For Diana Gutierrez, also of San Angelo, the biggest take-away from the some foresters. Cowan writes that Hugh used His shrine in Lincoln Cathedral was a place conference was the sense of hope she felt. his power of excommunication rather than of major pilgrimage until the Reformation, “When you come to things like this, I don’t want to say we’re looking for monetary fines, so that the punishment would when it was dismantled and his remains have something, but consequently you find something,” Gutierrez said. “I got (the fall equally on the rich and the poor. never since been found. feeling) that there’s still hope to be had.” Hugh was also fond of children and animals OBISPO

(Para 3) La forma más básica de ser misericor- Jesucristo regularmente. El ir a la de Dios. dioso es practicar las obras corporales y Confesión es un acto de esperanza. Es un Una de las oraciones más populares de Una indulgencia se puede obtener para sí espirituales de misericordia. Las siete obras recordatorio de que somos obras de arte en misericordia entre los Católicos Romanos mismo o para alguien que ha fallecido, de misericordia corporales son estas: ali- curso, y Dios es el artista. Dios es el escul- es la Coronilla de la Divina Misericordia. pero no se puede aplicar a otras personas mentar al hambriento, dar de beber al sedi- tor, y nosotros somos el barro. Él compone Esta coronilla típicamente se reza utilizan- que aun están vivas en la tierra. Para poder ento, vestir al desnudo, dar la bienvenida al las imperfecciones. Él nos moldea y nos do un rosario, pero también se puede rezar obtener una indulgencia, uno debe estar en forastero, sanar a los enfermos, visitar a los forma con amor. sin perlas, usando los dedos para contar las estado de gracia por lo menos en el encarcelados, y enterrar a los muertos. Las Otra manera de experimentar la miseri- oraciones. Se puede rezar en cualquier momento en que se complete la acción de siete obras de misericordia espirituales son cordia de Dios después de la clausura del momento, pero muchas personas la rezan indulgencia. estas: aconsejar al dudoso, instruir a los Año Jubilar de la Misericordia es a través los viernes a las 3:00 p.m., siendo que es la Aunque hay sólo unos pocos días más ignorantes, amonestar a los pecadores, con- de la Oración a Jesús. Recomiendo el uso Hora de la Misericordia. La Coronilla se para obtener una indulgencia plenaria aso- solar a los afligidos, perdonar las ofensas, regular de la Oración a Jesús como una basa en las apariciones de Jesús a Santa ciada con el pasar por una Puerta Santa, no soportar pacientemente a los que nos hacen forma sencilla de mantenernos en contacto Faustina Kowalska, la religiosa Polaca hay necesidad de estar ansioso. Esto es mal, y rezar por los vivos y los muertos. con la misericordia de Dios durante todas quien es conocida como “el Apóstol de la porque las indulgencias plenarias se pueden Animo a todos los creyentes a seguir prac- nuestras vidas. La formulación típica de la Misericordia.” Las oraciones particulares obtener en cualquier momento siempre y ticando estas acciones misericordiosas a Oración a Jesús es la siguiente: “Señor de la Coronilla de la Divina Misericordia cuando se lleven a cabo las cuatro condi- menudo, no importa qué año sea. Jesucristo, Hijo de Dios, ten misericordia son fáciles de encontrar en muchos lugares ciones mencionadas anteriormente y com- ¿Dónde encontramos la misericordia para de mí, un pecador.” Esta ha sido una en línea, tales como www.ladivinamiseri- pletando cualquiera de las acciones santas nosotros mismos después de que el Año oración muy popular desde los primeros cordia.org por las cuales la Iglesia concede una indul- Jubilar de la Misericordia haya terminado? siglos del Cristianismo. Se utiliza sobre Al decirle adiós al Año Jubilar gencia plenaria. Algunas de las más La misericordia de Dios todavía está todo en la espiritualidad de los Cristianos Extraordinario de la Misericordia, damos comunes de estas acciones son las sigu- disponible para nosotros en muchos aspec- Ortodoxos Orientales, pero también entre gracias por las tantas bendiciones derra- ientes: tos, siendo que su misericordia es eterna. los Católicos por todo el mundo. madas por Dios en este año. A contin- • Adoración del Santísimo Sacramento por Debemos orar el Padre Nuestro todos los La Oración a Jesús a menudo se utiliza uación, esperamos y nos comprometemos a lo menos media hora días, cuya oración incluye las palabras, como una herramienta para enfocar nue- dar y recibir misericordia todos los días de • El ejercicio piadoso del Vía Crucis “perdona nuestras ofensas, como también stros corazones en la oración. La forma en nuestras vidas. • Rezar el Rosario con otros nosotros perdonamos a los que nos ofend- que normalmente se practica es muy sim- Una imagen visual desde el Oeste de • Leer o escuchar la Sagrada Escritura por en.” Ese es un recordatorio diario tanto ple. Relájese y deje ir las distracciones. Texas puede servir para ilustrar a dónde lo menos media hora para abrir nuestros corazones para recibir la Dirija la mente desde la cabeza hasta el vamos hoy en adelante después de la • Pasar al menos tres días enteros en ejerci- misericordia, como extender misericordia a corazón. Diga la Oración a Jesús lenta- clausura del Año de la Misericordia: Somos cios espirituales de un retiro los que nos rodean. mente y con reverencia, ya sea mental- una sección en la tubería de la misericordia Después que se termine el Año Jubilar de Cristo también nos dio la profunda expe- mente o en silencio con los labios: “Señor de Dios, con una válvula en cada extremo. la Misericordia, no olvidemos que aún esta- riencia de recibir la misericordia a través Jesucristo, Hijo de Dios, ten misericordia El suministro abundante no tendrá fin. La mos llamados a ser misericordiosos. El del Sacramento de la Penitencia. No ten- de mí, un pecador.” Repita la oración con pregunta es, ¿Mantendremos esas válvulas Papa Francisco escribió que, “Dondequiera emos que esperar hasta otro Año Jubilar tranquilidad y paciencia, con atención a la abiertas para la entrada y la salida de ese que haya cristianos, cualquiera debería para ir a Confesión. Nuestros sacerdotes presencia de Dios. La Oración a Jesús suministro, o no? ¿Nos mantendremos poder encontrar un oasis de misericordia.” hacen disponible este hermoso sacramento mantiene el nombre de Jesús en nuestro abiertos a recibir la misericordia de Dios, y (Misericordiae Vultus, 12) Esto es cierto en para que podamos ser reconciliados con corazón y nos recuerda admitir que cada continuaremos a trasmitirla a otros? cualquier año. Dios por medio de la fuerza salvadora de uno de nosotros necesita de la misericordia Page 20 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus KNICKERBOCKERS

(From 7) his will, we who first hoped in Christ have tations of thought, word, attitude, and action. all" (Confessions 5, 1). The Holy Spirit been destined and appointed to live for the He focuses our minds and hearts on Him. enables us to recognize God's mercies, which We praise the Lord in our faithfulness to praise of his glory" (Eph 1: 11). In the The Holy Spirit shines through the leads us to praise Him in all circumstances; Him in season and out, in adversity, need, Revelation to John 19:5, we read, "From the Christian’s life that is filled with praise of praising God engenders love for Him. sorrow, disappointment, loss, temptation: "I throne came a voice crying, 'Praise our God, Jesus whose "light shines in the darkness, will bless the Lord at all times; his praise all you his servants, you who fear him small and the darkness has not overcome it" (Jn Praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul and great.' " 1:5). In everything we say and do, makes its boast in the Lord; let the afflicted We praise the Lord as we use the spiritual We praise the Lord with all of His creation: We praise the Lord who guides our way; hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with gifts He has given us to build up the Body of "Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise Despite our life that is askew, me, and let us exalt his name together! I Christ, the Church. The Charismatic him in the heights; praise him, all you his We praise the Lord through all our days. sought the Lord, and he answered me, and Renewal in the Church is a recognition that angels...all you his hosts...sun and Amid the toils and trials of life delivered me from all my fears" (Ps 34:1-4). the Holy Spirit wants to fan the flames of our moon...you shining stars...you highest heav- Our voices with His praise we sing. "Bless our God, you peoples, loudly sound baptism to enable us to be fully who He cre- ens...you waters above the heavens. Let His words through us bring all His light — his praise; He has given life to our souls, and ated us to be--His sons and daughters who them praise the name of the Lord, for he Dispels the darkness round us rings. has not let our feet slip" (Ps 66:8 NAB). continually praise Him in the use of our spir- commanded and they were created...." (Ps. And when our days on earth are done, We praise the Lord in our desire for holi- itual gifts. "Upon thee I have leaned from my 148:1-5). "Praise the Lord! Praise God in his We'll join the angels in their praise ness: "And it is my prayer that your love birth; thou art he who took me from my sanctuary, praise him in his mighty firma- Of Him who for us victory won: may abound more and more in knowledge mother's womb. My praise is continually of ment! Praise him for his mighty deeds, praise In life anew with Him we're raised and all discernment, so you may approve thee" (Ps 71:6). him according to his exceeding greatness! — W. E. Knickerbocker what is excellent, and may be pure and Praise routs Satan! God dwells in the Let everything that breathes praise the Lord! blameless for the day of Christ, filled with midst of our praise. "Yet thou art holy, Praise the Lord! (Ps 150). the fruits of righteousness which come enthroned on the praises of Israel" (Ps 22:3). St. Augustine speaks to us profoundly of RETREAT CENTER (cont’d), through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise When we praise the Lord, there is no space the relationship of praise to mercy and love: of God" (Phil 1:9-11 RSVCE). "In him, for Satan. The grace and power of God in "O Lord, my God, let my soul praise You ORDINATIONS, NECROLOGY according to the purpose of him who accom- praise is victorious over all evil forces. In that it may love You. Let it recount to You plishes all things according to the counsel of praise God strengthens our will against temp- Your mercies that it may praise You for them CHRIST THE KING RETREAT CONFERENCE CENTER (From 2) chesis.” “I didn’t even know what this beauty, it’s incredible.” DECEMBER (cont’d from 3) word meant until today,” he said. Ruiz told those gathered how, at one 15 — Catholic Daughters’ Christmas Party “Our formation program tries to do that,” Kelly Butler and Maria Ayala, of St. point during World Youth Day, the streets 18-21 — Seminarian Winter Gathering Garcia said. “We have to be creative.” Ann’s in Midland, also sat in on the World were packed with groups of people proud- 23-26 — CKRC Office Closed in Diocesan Conference Day is one such Youth Day breakout session. ly waving their respective country’s flag, Observance of Christmas 26 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group educational opportunity, she said. This “They do have good workshops here,” chanting in different languages. year, the conference brought in speakers Butler said. “They always do a really good “It looked like a battlefield. …but this JANUARY 2017 including Carol Ann Hunt of Midland, presentation. Last year it was (about) glob- was all about love and faith,” Ruiz said. 2 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group who presented “The Joy of Love: Pope alization as well. This is my third year, and At one point a group of Italians and a 8-13 — Holy Trinity Silent Retreat Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation on the I think it’s the most impressive one I’ve separate group of French converged on the 13-15 — Deacon Formation Family”; Ansel Augustine, who discussed been to, I think because of the verve of the street, he said. 16 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group “Young Adults: Energy Boost of the speakers.” “The Italians yelled something at the 20-22 — Engaged Encounter Church”; Marcos Martinez, presenter of “You think you know what they’re going French, and the French yelled something 22 — Natural Family Planning “Culture of Encounter”; and Bethany to say, but it’s always something different,” back, then they paused and ran to each 23 — Heart of Mercy Brunell and Nik Ruiz, who shared “WYD: added Ayala, who also attended the confer- other” and embraced and waved each 23 — Deacon Quarterly A Bird’s Eye View of the Global Church,” ence for the third consecutive year. “You other’s flags, Ruiz said. 26 — DOSA Staff Mass/Lunch about their experiences attending World always learn a little more about your dio- Sometimes common ground is difficult 29 — CKRC Confirmation Retreat Youth Day last summer in Krakow, cese, what they’re doing outside the to find, Brunell said. She related how she 30 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Group Poland. Church.” and her mother had walked for miles in the Approximately 30 people attended the For several young people who attended stifling heat to attend Mass with the pope. NECROLOGY first breakout session of the latter work- World Youth Day, “outside the church” When it became clear that wasn’t going to NOVEMBER shop, including Sammy Vasquez, who was nearly 6,000 miles and another conti- happen, the two tried to find water but 10-Rev. James Coleman (2002) attends St. Margaret’s Parish in San nent away, in Krakow, Poland. were denied. Tearful and discouraged, 19-Rev. Frank Zimmermann, C.M. (1999) Angelo. “Father sent me down here,” “There were people from Italy, of course Brunell and her mother asked for direc- 23-Rev. Colm Mulligan MSC (2003) Vasquez said with a laugh, referring to his us from America, some from France, tions from an ambulance driver, who was 27-Rev. Michael Dwyer MSC (1997) pastor at St. Margaret’s. Australia, Brazil, Portugal and Spain,” said cheerful, kind – and spoke perfect English. DECEMBER Vasquez has been a Catholic his whole Brunell. “We’re going through a lot of difficulties 1-Rev. John A. Pierce (1979) life but only recently began taking advan- Though the backgrounds of those in in our country right now,” Ruiz said. “We 5-Rev. Angel Vizcarra, O.P. (2004) tage of the diocese’s educational offerings. attendance were diverse and varied, “We have our boxes we put people in because 12-Deacon Nestor Perez (1993) “It’s good so I can learn something and still celebrated one common thing: the they’re different. It opens your eyes to see 12-Rev. James Aaron, (1999) take back to church what I’ve learned Eucharist and Body and Blood of Christ,” that when you go to World Youth Day, it 20-Rev. John Waldron (1995) today,” he said. “I’m enjoying it now.” Ruiz said. “For us to be at World Youth doesn’t matter the color of your skin 28-Rev. Nicholas Femenia, C.M. (1999) Vasquez pointed to the notebook in his Day and see such amazing cultural differ- because we’re all brothers and sisters.” 29-Rev. Msgr. Louis Moeller (2008) lap, where he had written the word “cate- ences but come together and share one 30-Rev. John Hoorman, C.PP.S.(1995) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 21 TCCB (From 9) of prisoners, and encourages rehabilita- Texas Bishops, TCC staff conducts policy • Act as a source of information and pro- tion and forgiveness for those re-entering assessments—with the input of diocesan mote participation in the grassroots net- • Support access to safe and affordable society. departments, ministries, and agencies—to work to congregations in their parishes. housing, water, and power for low- • Oppose the use of the death penalty in assess public policy needs and opportuni- • Activate, coordinate, and monitor the income Texans. Texas. ties across the state. The Bishops exten- grassroots responses to Texas Catholic • Support regulatory standards for payday • Support efforts to improve access to sively review and discuss the proposals Conference action alerts. and auto-title lending to curb usurious medical care for the incarcerated in before setting the legislative priorities for • Voice the Texas Catholic Bishop's con- lending practices and prevent a cycle of Texas. the upcoming session. Because of that, cerns and positions on public issues and consumer debt. • Support reintegrating parolees into soci- our public policy positions are based in legislation to local state legislative • Support safe and dignified working ety. Catholic social and moral teaching to offices. conditions, adequate training, and fair • Support efforts to improve the training uphold the sanctity of life, help the poor • Attend public education and informa- compensation for workers. and supervision of correctional officers in and vulnerable, and promote the common tional meetings on the Texas Catholic • Support policies to alleviate food inse- dealing with incarcerated offenders. good. Conference's behalf. curity and hunger, including expanded • Support revision of capital jury sentenc- To join the Texas Catholic Network, or access to summer nutrition programs, ing instructions to prevent concealment The Texas Catholic Network is a grass- for more information, visit school breakfast projects, and nutritional of jurors’ individual capacity to impose a roots program that enables the more than www.TXcatholic.org. awareness. sentence less than death. 7 million Catholics from across Texas to • Support efforts to end human trafficking effectively communicate with each other and provide care for victims About the Texas Catholic and the members of the Texas HOLY FAMILY Conference Legislature. This work is carried out Criminal Justice The Texas Catholic Conference advo- through Texas Catholic Network (From 4) Ours should be a just and compassionate cates on behalf of the Roman Catholic “Archangels” Program, a network of vol- society committed to ensuring the safety Bishops of Texas for policies and pro- unteers who help inform parishioners “We are very fortunate and have a lot of and protection of our communities while grams that support the life and dignity of about the legislative agenda and encour- people that we don’t know about that are encouraging the merciful forgiveness and every human person from conception age them to communicate with lawmak- Catholic,” said Msgr. Nawarskas. “It’s a rehabilitation of criminal offenders. We through natural death. ers about legislation that supports our very nice parish and as the bishop pointed support reform to the state’s criminal jus- This Legislative Agenda is the result of faith and Catholic social teaching. out, it’s very culturally diverse. tice system that ends the death penalty, a rigorous process of reflection and con- As a member of the Texas Catholic “The fact that they can pray together is provides for the compassionate treatment sultation. Under the guidance of the Network, you can: very inspiring.”

DIGNITY EDICTAL SUMMONS (From 5) are called to live in a communion of A woman’s dignity is closely connect- October 3, 2016 love, and in this way to mirror in the ed with the love that she receives by the CASE: OZONA (MATA) -- GARCIA accepting the other person: a person who world the communion of love that is in very reason of her femininity; it is like- NO.: SO/16/45 is recognized and loved because of the God, through which the Three Persons wise connected with the love that she dignity which comes from being a per- love each other in the intimate mystery gives in return. Woman can only find The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese son and not from other considerations, of the one divine life. For no human herself by giving love to others. This of San Angelo is seeking Saul Garcia. such as usefulness, strength, intelligence, being, male or female, created in the refers not only to the spousal relationship You are hereby summoned to appear beauty or health. He believes that this is image and likeness of God, can in any of marriage. It means something more before the Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of the fundamental contribution that the way attain fulfilment apart from this universal, based on the very fact of her San Angelo, at 804 Ford Street, San Angelo, Church and humanity can expect from image and likeness. being a woman within all the interper- Texas 76905, on or before the 30th day of women and that it is the basic require- John Paul states, “To say that man sonal relationships which shape society November 2016, to answer to the Petition of ment for an authentic cultural change. and woman are created in the image and the interactions between all persons. Juanita Ozuna (Mata ), now introduced He sees women contributing in three and likeness of God means that they are This concerns each and every woman, before the Diocesan Tribunal in an action areas: the first we will explore is called to exist ‘for’ others, to become a independently of the cultural context in styled, “Juanita Mata and Saul Garcia, Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of through her “gift of self” as made in gift. This likeness reveals that the which she lives, and independently of Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: God’s image and likeness. human person, who is the only creature her spiritual, psychological and physical OZONA (MATA) -- GARCIA; Protocol No.: on earth which God willed for its own characteristics, as for example, age, edu- SO/16/45, on the Tribunal Docket of the Gift of self: made in God’s sake, cannot fully find himself except in cation, health, work, and whether she is Diocese of San Angelo. image and likeness a sincere gift of self.” This is a funda- married or single. All women can be You may communicate with the Tribunal in John Paul sees a woman’s main mental point in his thought, because it made aware of, and so be able to act, person or in writing. Failure to communicate source of dignity coming from being is through this gift of self that women from this call to love others. within the prescribed period of time will be created equally, with man, in the image must put to the service of rebuilding the considered your consent for the Tribunal to and likeness of God. The Trinity is culture. This self-gift is the definition of Lisa Martinez is the founder and exec- continue its proceedings in the above-named about relationships — the Father loves the person, corresponding to the funda- utive director of The Greenhouse for case. the Son, the Son returns that love and mental biblical truth about man and Women, a Catholic women’s ministry Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San this love is so powerful and palpable woman, created in the image and like- based on the teaching of St. John Paul Angelo on the 4th day of October 2016. that it is itself a Person, the Holy Spirit. ness of God. It is not an interpretation II. This center for women will be Man cannot exist “alone” (cf. Gen or abstract definition, because it indi- launching next year in the Diocese of Reverend Tom Barley 2:18); he can only exist as a “unity of cates what it means to be human, while San Angelo. Further information can be MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL the two,” and therefore in relation to emphasizing the value of the gift of found at www.thegreenhousefor- Judicial Vicar another human person. Man and woman self, the gift of the person. women.org. Page 22 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus SACRED HEART

(From 2) immigrant and a dentist in his pre-clerical communicants at Sacred Heart. The pews life, began to fund raise in earnest. With were filled, many weddings were held, With a growing Catholic community pledges from both Catholics and the debt was paid off, and money set whose needs demanded a permanent Protestants totaling more than $18,000, aside so that during the 1950s and 1960s parish and priest, land was purchased and the bishop of Dallas gave permission to serious renovation of the church building a building constructed. The first pastor, buy land and build a new church. But the could occur. Air conditioning and heating Fr. Henry Brickley from Illinois, tended Great Depression hit, money tightened, were installed, stained glass windows to a flock of Mexican, Irish and German and the plans for the church were forced added, the basement, which today serves immigrants. Among the early parish- to be modified. as the parish hall, was renovated. By the ioners were Gus Ackerman, who ran the The pastor was an accomplished 1980s new educational facilities were local saloon and the police and fire chief, builder so he and members of the parish built, a sacristy was added and the park- J.J. Clinton. The first church building was joined in the construction. When Fr. ing lot finished. Of course, modifications 26 feet wide by 50 feet long and was Knufer wasn’t laying concrete or some to the sanctuary dictated by Vatican very hot in the summer and cold in the other building trade, he was cooking for Council II were implemented as well. winter. But it had an organ and crucifix the workers or out looking for money. The current pastor of Sacred Heart, and cracks in the floor that mystified the When first finished, the new church Msgr. Robert Bush, arrived in 1996. His young children. It was paid for through lacked plumbing, wiring, pews, and a twenty year tenure is the longest a priest donations from Catholics and Protestants confessional. It was in a rectangular has ever been assigned to Sacred Heart. in town as well as bazaars and oyster shape rather than the originally conceived The original immigrants from Mexico, suppers. cruciform. There was a cry room in the Ireland, and Germany have been joined The pastors stationed in Abilene had to back so that mothers and children could by new immigrants from Nigeria, tend to both a local congregation and see the Mass but there was no real sac- Vietnam, and the Philippines. The focus Catholics in the surrounding areas. risty for vesting. But the parish had a new remains as it was in 1891 with worship, Missions were established in Clyde, and much needed church, a sacred space celebration of the sacraments and reli- Merkel, Baird, Putnam, Hamlin, which continues to serve the people of gious education. The development of the Aspermont, Spur, Dickens, Jayton, Sacred Heart today. church property continues with fund rais- Colorado City, Big Spring, Goldwaithe, The parish priests always focused on ing going on for a new parish hall. Ballinger, Winters as well as other places. religious education whether in the manner Although oyster suppers have given A priest in the early days spent much of of formal classroom instruction for chil- way to BBQ dinners as a profitable way his time on the road. Given the poor con- dren on Sundays or citywide invitations to make money, the old stand-by church ditions of those roads and occasional bad for formal lectures on topics of interest to bazaars continue. The priests and people weather, mass was frequently cancelled Protestants and Catholics alike. of Sacred Heart continue to serve the due to the lack of availability of a priest. In a town where Catholics were a Lord as they look forward to what the But the willingness of a priest to travel all minority, religious prejudice was a prob- next 125 years will bring. over this mission territory, and the under- lem. While many Protestants helped fund Special thanks must go to Fr. Mark standing of the Abilene community to Sacred Heart’s buildings, the Ku Klux Woodruff, former pastor of Sacred Heart their pastor’s frequent trips led to the Klan was also a fact of life before World who wrote “A History of Sacred Heart recognition of Sacred Heart as “the War II. After tarring and feathering a Parish” in 1991 for the 100th anniver- Mother Church of Catholicism in the Big priest in Sweetwater, Abilene churchmen sary and to Edward Schroeder, whose Country.” joined the Knights of Columbus to ride Hardin Simmons University master thesis The parish grew during World War I shotgun for Fr. Knufer when he went on “Sacred Heart and the Catholic Church and the Roaring Twenties and the need late night pastoral visits. in Abilene” published in 1973 were for a new parish became evident. A new The arrival of troops stationed at Camp instrumental in the researching of this parish priest, Fr. Henry Knufer, a German Barkeley outside of town led to a surge in historical remembrance. BYRON

(From 17) presidency was a very successful one. 4 Tighten up the town and gown rela- There is much in this book worth pon- tionship as happened in the case of Notre Clashes with faculty are alluded to, but dering by anyone responsible for the Dame's Center for the Homeless in the not described in detail. He had only one advancement of any Catholic college or city of South Bend. serious difference with Father Hesburgh, university — trustees, administrators or 4 Cultivate the Catholic character and but that is simply acknowledged, not dis- faculty. emphasize ethics -- personal and social -- closed in any way. His one disagreement 4 Permeate the place with international in all that the university does. with his successor, Holy Cross Father mindedness, Father Malloy would rec- Notre Dame is a great Catholic univer- John Jenkins (over the firing of football ommend. sity. Monk Malloy helped to make it coach Ty Willingham), is mentioned 4 Pay special attention to alumni, includ- even greater. His book will help you along with an acknowledgment that ing giving preferential admissions, within understand the how and why. although Father Malloy was still presi- limits, for alumni sons and daughters. Jesuit Father William J. Byron is pro- dent, Father Jenkins had the right to 4 Work a service orientation into the fessor of business and society at St. make the decision. undergraduate student experience as well Joseph's University, Philadelphia. Email: By any measure, the Father Malloy as alumni activities. [email protected]. The Angelus NOVEMBER 2016 Page 23 CALDAROLA BARRON

(From 15) want to give offense, but I feel (From 16) quering female. assured that the majority of people It might be the case that, in regard to I thought of Christopher will see my actions as my private ed over and against males, that there is an money, power, and honor, a zero-sum dynam- Hitchens, the brilliant writer and witness. I'm not trying to be "in either/or, zero-sum conflict between men and ic obtains, but it decidedly does not obtain in outspoken atheist. When he was your face." I'm trying to be in soli- women. It is not enough, in a word, to show regard to real virtue. The truly courageous dying of cancer, he was offended darity with people of faith, and women as intelligent, savvy, and good; you by those who told him they were that's my right. person is not threatened by another person’s praying for him. But if I cross that line that sepa- have to portray men as stupid, witless, and courage; the truly temperate man is not intimi- I didn't blame him, even though I rates my behavior from an attempt irresponsible. That this savage contrast is hav- dated by the temperance of someone else; the prayed for him myself. But writing to change others' behavior, I may ing an effect especially on younger men is truly just person is not put off by the justice of to him and waving that in his face? become legitimately offensive. becoming increasingly apparent. a countryman; and authentic love positively That's like saying, "I know what's But aren't we supposed to evan- In the midst of a “you-go-girl” feminist cul- rejoices in the love shown by another. And best for you, like it or not." gelize? ture, many boys and young men feel adrift, therefore, it should be altogether possible to Truly, that's not the purpose of St. Francis of Assisi is thought to afraid that any expression of their own good hold up the virtue of a woman without deny- prayer. have said, "Preach the Gospel qualities will be construed as aggressive or ing virtue to a man. In point of fact, if we We offer to pray for people who always; if necessary, use words." insensitive. If you want concrete proof of this, consult the “all conquering female” characters share our convictions regarding The most effective witness we take a look at the statistics contrasting female in films and TV, we see that they often exem- prayer. But to impose my prayer give is our lives, lives of mercy and and male success at the university level. And plify the very worst of the traditional male verbally upon another who may not compassion. That makes any out- you can see the phenomenon in films such as qualities: aggression, suspicion, hyper-sensi- believe in prayer is wielding my ward sign of our faith impressive Fight Club and The Intern. In the former, the tivity, cruelty, etc. This is what happens when certainty of truth like a bludgeon. and legitimate. That kind of evan- Brad Pitt character turns to his friend and a Nietzschean framework has replaced a clas- That's not kindness, but a smug gelization is rarely offensive and laments, “we’re thirty year old boys;” and in sical one. expression of rightness. often powerful. the latter, Robert De Niro’s classic male type My point is that it is altogether possible— So, in this era of political correct- - - - tries to whip into shape a number of twenty- and eminently desirable—to say “you go boy” ness, where do you stand on the Find Libresco survey at fivethir- something male colleagues who are rumpled, with as much vigor as “you go girl.” And both tyeight.com/features/when-does- issue of offensiveness? unsure of themselves, without ambition—and the boys and the girls will be better for it. praying-in-public-make-others- If someone is uncomfortable with of course under the dominance of an all con- my Lenten ashes, too bad. I don't uncomfortable/. CHIN

(From 14) show mercy to all those we encounter, but of Portland did this by collecting towels trust, openness, hospitality, compassion we cannot do this if we do not first know for homeless families, according to The and dreams." Jersey pursued both. They cleaned up a mercy ourselves. Catholic Sentinel, the diocesan newspaper. With the Year of Mercy heading to an playground in Camden during the Mother "As you can see, mercy does not just The eighth-graders set up a mini-founda- end, young people continue to find oppor- Teresa Diocesan Day of Service. They imply being a 'good person' nor is it mere tion called "Friends of St. Francis" and tunities to be merciful to others. This also focused on the spiritual works of sentimentality. It is the measure of our reached out to parishes, which yielded 520 jubilee gave us the chance to realize that, mercy by attending a talk on forgiveness, authenticity," Pope Francis said when he donated towels. as the pope says, to be "merciful like the said a campus ministry coordinator. invited the youth to join him for World When I read about these two school Father" is not just "a catchphrase, but a With extra opportunities to partake in Youth Day. girls, the words of Pope Francis during life commitment." the sacrament of reconciliation at some Mercy also involves banishing indiffer- World Youth Day echoed in my head: "To - - - parishes, the jubilee also was a chance to ence with concrete, little steps. Two say the word 'mercy' along with you is to Maria-Pia Negro Chin is bilingual asso- reflect on a simple fact: We are called to home-schooled students from the Diocese speak of opportunity, future, commitment, ciate editor at Maryknoll Magazine. JOVENES

(Para 14) Madre Teresa y también se centraron en stro ser discípulos de Jesús", dijo el papa Jornada Mundial de la Juventud resonaban las obras de misericordia espirituales, cuando invitó a los jóvenes a unírsele a la en mi cabeza: "Decir misericordia junto a pedir perdón y ser más tolerantes. asistiendo a una charla sobre el perdón, Jornada Mundial de la Juventud. ustedes, es decir oportunidad, es decir Este Año de la Misericordia nos brindó dijo una coordinadora de la pastoral uni- El don de la misericordia también impli- mañana, es decir compromiso, es decir la hermosa oportunidad de reafirmar el versitaria. ca desterrar la indiferencia con pequeños confianza, es decir apertura, hospitalidad, amor de Dios mientras que nos llamaba a El jubileo fue también una oportunidad pasos concretos. Como ejemplo se puede compasión, es decir sueños". salir de nosotros mismos para servir a los para para participar en el sacramento de la mencionar a dos estudiantes de la Diócesis Con el Año de la Misericordia a punto demás. reconciliación en algunas parroquias, y de Portland que hicieron esto mediante la de concluir, los jóvenes siguen encontran- El papa Francisco dijo recientemente que adicionalmente reflexionar sobre un hecho recopilación de toallas para familias sin do oportunidades para ser misericordiosos para tratar de imitar la misericordia de simple: Estamos llamados a mostrar mis- hogar, según menciona The Catholic con los demás. Este jubileo nos dio la Dios se puede practicar el "dar" y "per- ericordia a todas las personas con las que Sentinel, el periódico diocesano. Las estu- oportunidad de darnos cuenta de que, donar". nos encontramos, pero no podemos hacer- diantes de octavo grado crearon una mini como dice el Papa, para ser "misericor- Los estudiantes de la pastoral universi- lo si antes nosotros no conocemos la mis- fundación llamada "Amigos de San diosos como el Padre" no es sólo "un lema taria de la Universidad de Rowan en ericordia. Francisco" y pidieron donativos en parro- de impacto, sino de un compromiso de Nueva Jersey siguieron ambas prácticas. "Como ven, la misericordia no es quias, recolectando 520 toallas. vida". Limpiaron un parque infantil en Camden 'buenismo', ni un mero sentimentalismo. Cuando leí acerca de estas dos estudi- durante el Día de Servicio Diocesano Aquí se demuestra la autenticidad de nue- antes, las palabras del papa durante la Page 24 NOVEMBER 2016 The Angelus Holy Family-Abilene turns 40

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