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Volume 11, Issue 7 Serving More Than A Million Catholics in the Diocese of Brownsville December 2019

ReasonFOR THE

Courtesy Photo Season Immaculate Conception Cathedral marks 160 years; Triduum set for Dec. 7-9 The Valley Catholic Construction on the new Immaculate Conception church began in earnest in 1856 under the BROWNSVILLE — The Diocese ofsupervision of Father Pierre Yves Keralum, who Brownsville is celebrating the 160th anniversary was an architect in France before he joined the of the historic Immaculate Conception Cathedral Oblates. A quarter of a million bricks for the new with a Triduum Dec. 7-9. The celebration church were manufactured in a nearby village coincides with its namesake, the Solemnity of the called Santa Rosalia, a place now within the Immaculate Conception. modern city of Brownsville. The Cathedral dates back to just before Built in the Gothic Revival style popular before the Civil War and its history comprises the the Civil War, the church was finished, blessed and very underpinnings of the modern Diocese of dedicated as a parish church in the original Texas Brownsville. diocese on June 12, 1859. Its origins are tied to the Missionary Oblates of When the Vicariate Apostolic of Brownsville Mary Immaculate, the first order of clergy to serve was carved out of that huge diocese in 1874 and the Rio Grande Valley. One of them, Father Adrien headquartered in Brownsville, the Immaculate Pierre Telmon, built a small wood church near the Conception church was elevated to cathedral current site and celebrated the first Mass there on status. It remained so until 1912, when the Courtesy Photo June 29, 1850. Vicariate Apostolic became the Diocese of Corpus The Immaculate Conception Cathedral at 1218 E. Jefferson St. in Brownsville was completed In the ensuing decade, the need for a Christi and the cathedral designation moved to St. by the Oblates in 1859. larger, more permanent church became clear. » Please see Cathedral’s 160 p.3 Those Who Serve EN ESPAÑOL ...Page 7 Páginas 2, 13-15 Sister Nilcar Historias sobre el respaldo del Espenido Obispo Daniel E. Flores sobre el and Sister Censo 2020, medios espirituales Vivian Ndum para vivir el adviento y el significado del la Corona de Adviento Census 2020 ...Page 3 Bishop Flores: For video and more photos “It’s important Visit the Diocese of Brownsville to be counted.” on its social media pages. 2 DIOCESE The Valley Catholic - December 2019 Este »From our Adviento shepherd This Advent meditate on the last medita las lines from the Baptismal Creed During these days before we celebrate the Nativity to destroy the work of God. The Book of Revelation últimas of the Lord, I recommend meditation on the last lines of speaks of this. In addition, although the history of the the baptismal Creed. The Creed is the ancient summary Church includes stories of great sinners from the begin- of the Apostles’ preaching and the teachings of the New ning (for example, the one who betrayed Jesus), we also frases del Testament. And the last phrases lead us into a future profess that there has never been a lack of extraordinary that is born in us through God´s Son, born of the Virgin triumphs of grace over evil. From the first apostles, the Mary by the work of the Holy Spirit. martyrs throughout history, to the saints of our time, Credo I believe in the Holy Spirit, such as Mother Teresa of Calcutta, or Blessed Miguel Most Reverend the holy Catholic Church, Pro or the soon to be beautified Fulton Sheen. The Daniel E. Flores the communion of saints, Church is constituted to give birth to and nourish saints. Bautismal the forgiveness of sins, We believe in the forgiveness of sins: To profess Bishop of Durante estos días antes de the resurrection of the body the communion of saints means the Church continues Brownsville la celebración de la natividad del and life everlasting. being a fruitful Mother, and through the sacrament of Señor, les recomiendo meditar We believe in the Holy Spirit: In fact, the Holy Spirit baptism, new members become part of the Church with las últimas frases del Credo is revealed to the world by his works. We profess our all their sins forgiven. An essential part of the mission of bautismal. El Credo es el resumen faith in the third person of the Holy Trinity precisely the Church is to announce that there is forgiveness for because the arrival of Jesus, the Son of God in person, is everyone who humbly repents from their sins and asks antiguo de la predicación de los The Church Apóstoles y las enseñanzas del the same moment of the revelation of the Holy Spirit in for the mercy of God, which has been fully manifested lives,“ prays person. Through the Holy Spirit, the Son comes to live in Jesus Christ, who died and rose to gain for us this Nuevo Testamento. Las últimas frases nos orientan hacia un futuro and gives what is ours. And Jesus, God made man and glorified, forgiveness. In addition, it is only by finding God’s for- que nace en nosotros a través herself in sends us the plenitude of the Holy Spirit. The mystery of giveness that we can learn how to forgive one another. del nacimiento del Hijo de Dios the Pentecost is still actual. The Church professes faith And the truth is that it is a requirement for those who de Maria Virgen, por obra del order that in the Holy Spirit because she knows him as the author want to share eternal life, that they learn how to forgive Espíritu Santo. all can be and sustainer of her life. others. Creo en el Espíritu Santo, saved..” We could say that the last phrases of the Creed, an- We believe in the Resurrection of the flesh and la Santa Iglesia Católica, nounce the last works of the Holy Spirit. Some of them in eternal life: In the history of the Church, martyrs la comunión de los Santos, occur today; others are to come. overcame cruel death precisely because of the grace of el perdón de los pecados, The profession of faith of the Holy Catholic Church the Holy Spirit, sustaining them in faith in the Resurrec- la resurrección de la carne, is the profession of the presence, according to God’s tion of the flesh and in eternal life. We may say that the la vida eterna. design, of the one Holy, Catholic Church. She is Holy last phrases of the Creed are inscribed on the flesh of the Creo en el Espíritu Santo: by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit. Not in a martyrs. Devotion to the martyrs is an instruction in the De hecho, el Espíritu Santo es sense that there is no sin among her members, but, in faith of the Church, especially in our faith in the world revelado al mundo a través de sus the sense that only through the grace of the Gospel an- to come. Martyrs teach us that God’s love made manifest obras. Profesamos fe en la tercera nounced by the Church, and the sacraments shared by in Christ is a knowing how to die so that we can live. persona de la Santísima Trinidad the Church, sinners hope to become saints. This means The work of Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit precisamente porque la llegada that the Holy Church is an extension of Christ himself is a work aiming to reconcile the entire universe with de Jesús, el Hijo en persona, es in the world. Holiness looks for us, and were it not for God our Father. The Holy Spirit inspires us and moves igual el momento de la revelación the historical and concrete presence of the Church con- us internally to seek the Kingdom of Jesus in our lives. del Espíritu Santo en persona. A stituted by the Gospel and the sacraments, If we pay attention to the Holy Spirit, we will seek the través del Espíritu Santo, Dios Hijo none of us would have hope to share the heritage grace of Christ in the Gospel and in the sacraments of llega a vivir lo nuestro, y Jesús, for unto us a of God’s Kingdom. We must believe in the the Church. And this prepares us to receive the Lord at Dios humanizado y glorificado, Church; which means to believe within the the end of our personal life, and at the end of the history nos envía la plenitud del Espíritu Church and to believe in the Church as an of the world. Santo. El misterio de Pentecostés Child instrument of the Incarnate Word, estab- Christ will come again to present us to the Father. sigue siendo actual. La Iglesia lished as the sacrament of his presence We will rise in our own flesh. And just as we are, flesh profesa fe en el Espíritu Santo and his work in the world. and soul, we will receive the judgement of a fair and porque lo conoce como autor Then we profess faith in the com- compassionate judge. The possibility of finally losing y sostén de su vida. munion of saints. This refers to the our life, that is, losing entrance to the eternal life of the Podríamos decir que las unity of the Church formed by members saints, does exist. God judges and it is not like we do últimas frases del Credo anuncian from heaven and earth. It includes all the not know what he will ask us at the end. But the Church las últimas obras del Espíritu members of the Church who are awaiting lives, prays and gives herself in order that all can be Santo. Algunas de ellas suceden total purification in purgatory. We all belong saved. We remember, then, that God was born of a Vir- hoy; otras han de suceder. to the same ecclesial body, all united by bonds gin in Bethlehem to open this dark world to the grace La profesión de fe en la Santa is born of the grace of Christ, the head of the Church. of our being able to be numbered in the communion of Iglesia Católica es profesión de Nevertheless, the Church here on earth keeps fight- saints, in the eternal banquet of the beloved Son. la presencia, de acuerdo con el ing with weapons of grace against the powers that desire Amen. designio de Dios, de una Iglesia que es una, santa y católica. Ella es santa por obra del Espíritu Santo. esperanza de poder ser el Evangelio y los sacramentos, que nunca han faltando Y la verdad es que aprender No en el sentido de que dentro de convertidos en santos. Es ninguno de nosotros ejemplos extraordinarios del cómo perdonar a los demás es sus miembros no encontramos el decir que la Iglesia santa es tendríamos esperanzas de triunfo de la gracia contra el requisito para los que buscan pecado, sino que en el sentido de la extensión en el mundo de compartir la herencia del Reino pecado. Desde los primeros compartir la vida eterna. que solamente a través de la gracia Cristo mismo. La santidad de Dios. Tenemos que creer Apóstoles, los mártires a lo Creemos en la resurrección del Evangelio anunciada por ella, nos busca y si no fuera por la en la Iglesia; es decir, creer largo de la historia, hasta los de la carne, y en la vida eterna: y los sacramentos compartidos presencia histórica y concreta dentro de ella, y creer en ella santos que hemos conocido Los mártires en la historia de por ella, los pecadores tienen de la Iglesia constituida por como instrumento del Verbo en nuestro tiempos, como la la Iglesia superaron la muerte Encarnado, establecida como Madre Teresa de Calcuta, o el cruel precisamente a través sacramento de su presencia y beato Miguel Pro, o el pronto de la fuerza del Espíritu Santo actividad en el mundo actual. beatificado Fulton Sheen. La sosteniéndolos en la fe en Enseguida profesamos Iglesia es constituida para dar la resurrección de la carne fe en la comunión de los nacimiento y nutrir a santos. y la vida eterna. Podemos Santos. Se refiere a la unidad Creo en el perdón de los decir que las últimas frases 700 N. Virgen de San Juan Blvd., San Juan, TX 78589-3042 compacta de la Iglesia poblada pecados: Profesar la comunión del Credo quedan inscritas Telephone: (956) 781-5323 • Fax: (956) 784-5082 con miembros en el cielo de los Santos implica que en la carne de los mártires. y en la tierra. Incluye los la Iglesia sigue siendo una La devoción a los mártires es Bishop Daniel E. Flores South Texas Circulation miembros esperando la última Madre fecunda, y que a una instrucción en la fe de la Publisher Circulation purificación en el purgatorio. través del sacramento del Iglesia, especialmente nuestra Brenda Nettles Riojas The Valley Catholic email: Todos pertenecemos al mismo bautismo entran nuevos fe en el mundo venidero. Los Editor [email protected] cuerpo eclesial, unidos por miembros con sus pecados mártires nos enseñan que el Paul Binz Assistant Editor Follow us on Facebook vínculos de la gracia de Cristo perdonados. Parte esencial amor de Dios manifestado en nuestra cabeza. Sin embargo, de la misión de la Iglesia es Cristo es un saber morir para Ester Salas Catholic Diocese of Brownsville Graphic Artist www.cdob.org la Iglesia en la tierra sigue anunciar que sí hay perdon poder vivir. luchando con armas de la para cualquier persona que La obra de Jesús y la obra Ricardo Treviño Subscription rate Content Developer $15 per year • $17 outside of Texas gracia contra los poderes que humildemente se arrepiente y del Espíritu Santo es una $25 out of U.S. desean destruir la obra de busca la misericordia de Dios, obra con fin de reconciliar Dios. El libro del Apocalipsis plenamente manifestada en a todo el universo con Dios Member of The Valley Catholic, a publication of the the Catholic Press Association Diocese of Brownsville, is published monthly habla de esto. Además, aunque Cristo Jesús, quien murió y nuestro Padre. El Espíritu la historia de la Iglesia contiene resucitó para obtenernos el Santo nos inspira y nos mueve Advertising historias de grandes pecado- perdón. Además, solo a través interiormente a buscar el Reino Gustavo Morales Gilbert Saenz Paul Binz res desde el principio (como de encontrar el perdón de de Jesús en nuestras vidas. Si (956) 266-1527 (956) 451-5416 (956) 784-5055 por ejemplo, el que traicionó Dios, podríamos aprender atendemos al Espíritu Santo, Parishes and missions please call Paul Binz at (956) 784-5055 for church rates. a Jesús), también profesamos cómo perdonar unos a otros. » Por favor lea Bishop p.19 December 2019 - The Valley Catholic DIOCESE 3 Bishop Flores endorses »Obituaries Census response at forum It’s safe, important to be counted, he says

By R. DANIEL CAVAZOS Sister Rosalia Fink The Valley Catholic Feb. 20, 1932-Oct. 22, 2019

McALLEN — Bishop Daniel Sister Rosalia Fink, 87, died Flores sees the Rio Grande Oct. 22 at Villa St. Vincent in Valley as being a community of Crookston, Minnesota. many communities. Caroline Fink was born in The bishop arrived at this Britton, South Dakota, and joined description after many a trip the Sisters of St. Benedict in 1948, through and around the four- taking the name Sister Rosalia. county region that makes up Sister Fink then earned two the Diocese he oversees. Bishop bachelor’s degrees in education Flores describes an area of larger and subsequently taught in various cities and smaller communities schools in Minnesota and Texas. with a loose confederation She was also a public high of rural areas long known as school principal in Minnesota. colonias. R. Daniel Cavazos / The Valley Catholic In 1990, Sister Fink came to The 2020 Census will define At a Census 2020 forum Nov. 19 at the McAllen Convention Center, Bishop Daniel E. Flores urged Rio Grande Valley residents the Rio Grande Valley and joined and clarify this sprawling region, to participate in the upcoming 2020 Census and vouched for the safety and confidentiality of doing so. the staff of the Community Action its people and communities, Council of South Texas in Rio and the bishop said the official on the daily lives of Americans. information with another March. Additional reminders Grande City. While at CACST, she decennial count will have far- More than $675 billion in federal governmental entity.” and letters will be sent out in worked with almost 500 employees reaching implications. funding in infrastructure, health Olson stressed there is no late March to mid-April, with to help oversee care for the abused. “We have to know who we care, roads and education will citizenship question in the 2020 necessary personal visits made Sister Fink returned to are and where we are,” Bishop be based on Census numbers. Census despite efforts by the thereafter. Minnesota in 2006, but soon Flores said Nov. 19 at a 2020 The same goes for determining Trump administration to insert The Census Bureau is returned to Rio Grande City to Census Forum in McAllen. state and federal political the question in the survey. gearing up for these intensive establish a shelter for abused women, assisted by Sister Jeannine “How old are we? How young representation in Austin and Olson hopes the omission of efforts by hiring 7,000 workers Spain. People from the locality are we and what are the trends?” Washington, D.C. that question will encourage to cover the four-county Valley. formed a committee and named The Census will seek to With so much riding on the count of every person living Olson expects that nationally, the project the South Texas answer these questions and these numbers, a high-ranking in individual households. The the majority of Americans will Empowerment of Women Center. many others, and to do so, U.S. Census Bureau official Census official said churches respond to the Census online, After the shelter opened its an accurate count is needed. came to McAllen to attend the will play a key role in addressing but that will not be applicable doors in 2016, and Sister Fink felt Bishop Flores said the Diocese conference and make a critical fears about the confidentiality of in many of the rural areas in the confident of its future, she returned of Brownsville began working point. The Census data will only the Census. Valley that are not connected to to Minnesota. with its priests and parishioners be used to produce statistics, said “I’m so pleased to hear the Internet. She was interred at Mount months ago in getting the word from the bishop,” Olson said It’s these harder-to-get- Timothy Olson, the associate St. Benedict Cemetery after her at the McAllen conference. to areas where Bishop Flores out regarding the importance of director of field operations funeral Oct. 28. the Census. He sees a specific for the Census Bureau. Every “The sharing of this (Census) wants to apply special focus. role the Church can play in bureau employee takes an oath information with parishioners is His message is that it’s safe to reaching the colonias and to protect personal information, so very powerful.” participate in the Census, and changing the chronic nature of he said, and the agency will not The timetable for releasing that every area is deserving of undercounts in those areas. share survey results with other letters and forms to the general being counted. “We need to change that governmental entities. public will begin in the spring “For us, we want to refrain,” the bishop said of “There are many people of 2020. On or between March encourage everyone to have rural undercounts. “We are throughout the country who 12 and 20 the Census Bureau confidence in taking the concerned about areas outside are concerned about the will send out online invitations Census,” the bishop said. “We of the larger cities.” Census in the current (political) and paper questionnaires. need to explain how important The results of the 2020 atmosphere,” Olson said. “We Reminder letters will be sent it is that they be counted.” Census will have a direct effect cannot and will not share that out the following week in

J. Peña Cathedral’s 160 Monday, Dec. 9: continued from pg. 1 • Mass at 7 p.m. celebrated by Bishop Daniel E. Flores and Deacon Roberto Cantu Patrick’s Church in that city. Auxiliary Bishop Mario A. Avilés May 14, 1938 - Oct. 28, 2019 More than 50 years later, • After Mass, devotions to Our the Diocese of Brownsville Blessed Mother and fireworks MERCEDES — Deacon was created, and in 1965 outside the Cathedral. Roberto Cantu, 81, died Oct. 28. the Immaculate Conception Roberto Cantu was born May Church once again was 14, 1938 in Robstown, Texas, and designated a cathedral. was ordained to the diaconate Having witnessed 160 on May 12, 1990. He served at years of history that included both Our Lady of Mercy Catholic embellishments, hurricanes, the Church and Sacred Heart Catholic Civil War and recurring border Church since then. He helped to upheavals, the Immaculate automate years of church records Conception Cathedral remains for many parishes in the Rio the enduring crown jewel of Grande Valley and also made a log the Diocese of Brownsville’s of those buried in local cemeteries. churches. He also had a passion for family Father Michael Amesse, trees; many people contracted him rector of the Cathedral, said to do theirs. the Triduum schedule will be as He loved friends and family follows: and he would let them know with Saturday, Dec. 7: a phone call every year on their • Mass at 6:30 p.m. celebrated birthdays, wedding anniversaries by Father Rodolfo Franco Courtesy Photo or just because. followed by Holy Hour The historic Cathedral built by the Oblates His funeral was Oct. 31 at Our Sunday, Dec. 8: of Mary Immaculate priests celebrates a Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, • Mass at 7 p.m. celebrated by 160-year anniversary with a Triduum of with burial at Our Lady of Mercy Bishop Emeritus Raymundo Masses Dec. 7-9. Catholic Cemetery in Mercedes. 4 DIOCESE The Valley Catholic - December 2019 »Women »Sunday en la Let’s not rush our Readings

Frontera The Word of God in the Life and Advent pilgrimage Mission of the Church DEC. 1 First Sunday of Advent n our December edition of the newspaper, we angels’ who take food and faith to the peripheries Reading 1 include a Year in Review of 2019. It is helpful of Donna, Lolis Flores, a young adult who uses IS 2:1-5 to pause before the New Year and give thanks social media to evangelize daily by praying the Responsorial Psalm Ifor the graces in our lives, to be aware and express rosary live; Josephina Suarez who for 28 years has PS 122: 1-2, 3-4, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 gratitude for each gift the Lord has given us. But it’s taken special care of priests and religious who find Reading 2 not enough. We also need to consider how we are themselves at the San Juan Nursing Home; our ROM 13:11-14 giving of ourselves. religious sisters who work behind the scenes like Alleluia CF. PS 85:8 Bishop Flores last month wrote about the grace Sister Maureen Crosby, a member of the Sister of Brenda of charity, the grace that serves. He said, “the love St. Dorothy and Sister Rosalia Vadala, with the Gospel Nettles Riojas of God is a grace of love offered, recognized and Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi; and Daniel Martinez MT 24:37-44 Editor of The returned.” He adds, “The charity of Christ does not of San Benito, a Korea veteran who volunteered for Valley Catholic save us by being recognized, it saves us by being three decades with the Jail & Prison Ministry. These DEC. 8 Second Sunday of Advent returned, it saves us through our charity put into are just a few of the stories. Reading 1 play within history. The truth is we do not have enough pages to tell IS 11:1-10 After reviewing our past editions of the all the stories of people who inspire us to do more. Responsorial Psalm newspaper, the predominant themes that emerge While we celebrate their examples, my hope is that PS 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17 in our diocese are those of generosity and love. we can bring you even more stories in 2020. The highlights come from the encounters that As I consider my own personal highlights from Reading 2 ROM 15:4-9 happen daily and the generosity of our community 2019, what stands out are clearly the encounters that supports life and reaches out to those in need with people with whom I have crossed paths, from Alleluia LK 3:4, 6 — those who stand up bravely to speak for the whom I have learned from their example what unborn; those who help our brothers and sisters it means to be a faithful servant of Christ. I am Gospel who are seeking asylum, hundreds of whom are in reminded daily, “Christ died so that I could live for MT 3:1-12 limbo waiting along the border in Mexico; those him.” DEC. 15 who reach out in their own communities, like Rio However, as I ask myself the question, “Did I do Third Sunday of Advent Hondo, to help families whose homes flooded in enough? What more can I do?” I recognize I could Reading 1 IS 35:1-6A, 10 June. do more. I need to do more. “Be doers of the word The meditation in the November Magnificat and not hearers only.” James 1:22 Responsorial Psalm for the Solemnity of Christ the King comes from So as the days grow darker and we near the end PS 146:6-7, 8-9, 9-10 the late Pope Pius XI, who tells us the Kingdom of of another year, this Advent, a season of waiting, Reading 2 God “demands of its subject a spirit of detachment of preparing and anticipation, I commit myself to JAS 5:7-10 from riches and earthly things, and a spirit of taking some time to discern what more I need to Alleluia gentleness….they must deny themselves and carry do. IS 61:1 (CITED IN LK 4:18) the cross.” I actually want to embark mini rebellion of Gospel Denying ourselves of anything seems to go sorts, and refuse to let the commercialism and MT 11:2-11 against cultural norms where advertisers try to frenzy that permeates December take me off DEC. 22 convince us to indulge, that we can have everything course from Advent, this beautiful season of a holy Fourth Sunday of Advent we want. We, as Catholics know there is grace in longing for Christ. Reading 1 dying to self and living for others. What are your top milestones from 2019? How IS 7:10-14 Through our Catholic Family stories we met did you witness your faith? In what ways did God Responsorial Psalm people who live for others, who share their talents surprise you? How did you give of yourself? What PS 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6 for the good of their community — the ‘bread were the special encounters? Reading 2 ROM 1:1-7 Alleluia MT 1:23 »Family Life Gospel The light of Christ in us MT 1:18-24 DEC. 29 The Holy Family of Jesus, his special season of Advent can be a Christ our Lord. Amen.” Mary and Joseph wonderful time of reflecting on the “light of At the Lighting of the Christmas tree in Gub- Reading 1 Christ that lives in each of us.” Our Catho- bio, Italy on Dec. 8, 2014, Pope Francis stated: “In SIR 3:2-6, 12-14 Tlic faith has so many beautiful rituals, prayers, switching on the light of the Nativity scene, we Responsorial Psalm and symbols that can assist us in connecting with wish for the light of Christ to be in us. A Christmas PS 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 those deep desires that each of us have to be in without light is not Christmas. Let there be light Reading 2 relationship with the Holy Trinity: with God our in the soul, in the heart; let there be forgiveness to COL 3:12-21 or heavenly Father and with his Son Jesus for whom others; let there be no hostilities, which are dark. COL 3:12-17 we await the celebration of that special day we Let there be the beautiful light of Jesus. This is my Alleluia recall his birth — an event that turned the world wish for all of you, when you turn on the light of COL 3:15A, 16A on its axis and changed the course of history (We the crib.” Gospel even changed the calendar). During this season, “… If you have something dark in your soul, MT 2:13-15, 19-23 we trust the Holy Spirit to lead us into ask the Lord for forgiveness. Christmas Lydia Pesina 2020 Anno Domini — In the year of is a great opportunity to cleanse the Director, our Lord. soul. Do not fear, the priest is merci- Family Life Office As a society, we seem to be yearn- ful, forgiving all in the name of God, ing for meaning through symbols. because God forgives everything.” Stores have a huge variety of all types There are so many beautiful messag- ADVENT “An of decorations, wreaths, lights, and es in our Advent and Christmas seasons prepare unexamined holiday symbols — sometimes not nec- that can lift our spirits; that can remind for life is not essarily Christmas symbols. Perhaps us to avail ourselves to the graces of worth living.” the reason that we are attracted to the the sacraments of Reconciliation and shimmer and the lights is that we are Eucharist and encourage us to be “real -Plato searching for that inner light that each gifts” to one another, especially in our of us has been gifted with. John 8:12 family. And most especially, these — “Then Jesus again spoke to them, reminders can propel us to give of our- Christ saying, ‘I am the Light of the world; he who follows selves through time, talent and treasure to others, me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the especially those with the most emotional, spiritual Light of life.’” and material needs. Starting with Advent, our families can reflect Jesus reminds us in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are on Jesus as the Light of the World with blessing the the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be Advent Wreath on our family dinner table. Loyola hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it Press offers this “Prayer for Lighting the Advent under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives Wreath”: “Blessed are you, O Lord our God, king of light to all who are in the house. Let your light the universe. You sent your Son to be the Light of shine before men in such a way that they may see the world and to spread his light of love to all. As your good works, and glorify your Father who is in we light the candles of this wreath may its growing heaven.” brightness remind us of the approaching nearness May the Holy Spirit guide each of us to strive of your Son so that the day of his coming may find to be “the light of the world” during these special us prepared and filled with joy. We ask this through Advent and Christmas seasons. December 2019 - The Valley Catholic FAITH 5 »Making Sense of Bioethics Pushing back against evil uring a recent speech in Texas, I mentioned something unusual happen today.” that “Drag Queen Story Hours” are being He then told her about picking up a pregnant sponsored by local public libraries across the woman with two young children. After greeting country.D Toddlers and kids are brought in and placed them, he looked at his phone and started driving. in front of cross-dressing men who read children’s The address on his screen subconsciously caught his stories to them, stories that encourage them to reject attention; meanwhile the woman was speaking to fundamental gender differences between males and someone on her phone in the back seat. After several females. The LGBTQ agenda, I also noted, is being minutes of thinking about the address, the young energetically promoted to upend and rewrite public driver suddenly realized where they were headed: school curricula even for kindergarten and pre- the local Planned Parenthood abortion clinic. Courtesy photo school-aged children. He decided to make a couple of wrong turns to The Immaculate Conception was During the Q & A after the talk, one of the buy some time so the woman would finish up her honored informally for centuries before becoming dogma. Father Tadeusz parents in attendance, with a measure of frustration phone conversation. When she kept on talking, he Pacholczyk in his voice, asked what the average person can do to pulled the car over and brought it to a complete stop. Priest of the Diocese of push back against the seemingly endless expansion As she paused her conversation, he turned and said »Feast Day Fall River, Mass. of error and evil in our society. to her, “I’m sorry but I have to let you know that Director of Education at His question is a common one. because of my religious beliefs, I simply cannot take Dec. 8 The National Catholic I usually reply by saying that we cannot yield you where you are going. I will return you to where I Bioethics Center in to discouragement over the apparently widespread picked you up and refund your fee.” The woman was Spotlight on moral decline around us, nor dissipate our personal surprised, but seemed to understand, and he drove Philadelphia. energy in worry and anxiety about the state of the her and her three children back to the pickup point. See www.ncbcenter.org world. Instead, we need to recognize how God has That young driver made an intentional decision, The entrusted to each of us a small garden that he asks within the confines of the particular garden God had us to tend. If we tend that plot well, he will extend given him to cultivate, to push back against a present Immaculate the reach of his grace in ways we cannot foresee or evil he became aware of. imagine, and we will actually contribute to stem- Another person of lesser determination might ming the tide of error and evil well beyond the have said, “Who am I to get involved in this person’s Conception limited confines of our particular plot. choices?” Am I my brother’s keeper?” He recog- The Solemnity of the Immac- This implies that each of us has different respon- nized, however, that he was already unwittingly ulate Conception commemorates sibilities, depending upon our particular state in life, involved, and that each of us, in fact, is our brother’s Mary’s conception in her mother’s our commitments, and our employment and family keeper. He was concerned about a neighbor and her womb without the stain of original situations. By attending carefully to those responsi- little family gathered in the back seat of his car. He sin. bilities and conscientiously tending our gardens, the knew he could not be party to the wrongdoing she In anticipation that she was air around us can indeed begin to change. seemed poised to carry out against her unborn child. to bear the Son of God, Mary was A true story I recently heard brought this lesson We don’t know what happened after he dropped preserved from the time of her home in a powerful way. her off. Maybe, sadly, she just ordered another ride. conception from Original Sin. A woman, facing complex health issues, felt a Maybe, however, she reconsidered her choice. Any We call this the Immaculate Con- strong impulse one morning to pray for her oldest time we try to do what is right and push back against ception: No sin would touch her, son while she was confined to her bed. He lived far evil, any time we seek to act with resolve on behalf of so that she would be a fitting and away in a large metropolitan area and worked in his what is good and true, new options open up, the air worthy vessel for the Son of God. spare time for a ride-sharing company. changes around us, and we contribute to renewing Long supported by universal Later that day, her son called home, and she our world. popular devotion of the faithful, mentioned that she had felt the need to pray for him That’s what each of us can do as we take care of this aspect of her life became dog- earlier. “That’s interesting,” he replied, “because I had our own garden. ma in 1854, and her day became a nationwide holy day in 1885.

»Formation for Ministry La Rosa de Guadalupe Miracle here is a Mexican television series that I watch Incarnation is the root miracle of salvation, the Resur- when I have time. It’s called La Rosa de Guada- rection is the definitive and ultimate sign of our faith, lupe. Each episode is about someone who has for all miracles should point back to the Incarnation askedT the Virgin of Guadalupe for her intercession, and the Resurrection of Jesus and give glory to God. protection or a miracle in a life situation or dilemma. “If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching The Blessed Mother always responds in one way or is in vain and your faith is in vain.” The Resurrection another and offers her help. The sign of her presence above all constitutes the confirmation of all Christ’s is the appearance of a white rose next to their image works and teachings. All truths, even those most of her. Each episode has a good ending, even though inaccessible to human reason, find their justification sometimes it may be difficult to accept or to under- if Christ by his Resurrection has given the definitive Courtesy photo Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to stand. proof of his divine authority, which he had promised.” future saint Juan Diego the first time on The white rose in the episodes reminded me of (CCC, #651) Dec. 9, 1531. when Bishop de Zumárraga asked San Juan Diego In the glossary of the Catechism of the Catholic Deacon to request of the Blessed Virgin Mary a miraculous Church, a miracle is defined as “a sign or wonder, Luis Zuniga sign that would confirm her identity, so that he would such as a healing or the control of nature, which can »Feast Day know for certain that it was really her asking him to only be attributed to divine power. “The miracles of Director, Office Dec. 12 build a new temple at the Tepeyac hillside. Jesus were messianic signs of the presence of God.” for Pastoral Life According to the story, Bishop Zumárraga had (CCC#547) & San Juan Diego prayed privately to the Blessed Mother for a sign of “The signs worked by Jesus attest that the Father Spotlight on Ministry Institute roses (Castilian, like the kind that grew in his home has sent him. They invite belief in him. To those country of Spain) as proof. who turn to him in faith, he grants what they ask. So To his astonishment, when San Juan Diego re- miracles strengthen faith in the One who does his Our Lady of vealed the sign of fresh Castillian roses to the bishop, Father’s works; they bear witness that he is the Son of even more amazing to all present was the image of God.” (CCC, #548). Guadalupe Our Lady imprinted in the tilma. It’s also important The miracles we find in the gospels are meant to As Our Lady of Guadalupe, to note that the roses that San Juan Diego brought — help us see and believe in the divinity of Christ. We the Blessed Mother is the patron besides not being from the region — were impossible also read that during the three years of Jesus’ public of Mexico, the United States, and to grow in the winter. ministry among the people, he used miracles to teach all of the Americas, as well as the As human beings, we yearn for miracles. We and touch people with the gift of faith, eventually call- protector of unborn children. In hunger for the holy in our world; we all want proof ing them to conversion. December 1531, she appeared in a of God’s existence as we seek the divine. We long and A book on miracles I’m currently reading (which vision to Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoa- pray for God to intervene in our lives. With so much I highly recommend) is Exploring the Miraculous tzin on Tepeyac Hill near Mexico suffering in the world and so much misery, we are in by Michael O’Neill. He mentions that St. Augustine City and sent him to ask his bishop need of God’s help and grace. After all, we are all beg- spoke of the miracles of Christ as an aid to help us to build a church there. After the gars in need of God’s mercy. overcome our human limitations in understanding bishop demanded proof, she had C.S. Lewis argued that the one grand miracle of Christ: “The miracles worked by our Lord Jesus Christ Juan Diego gather roses in his cloak Christianity is not the Crucifixion or the Resurrection, are divine works which raise the human mind above to take to the bishop. When Juan but Christ’s birth. He loved the story of the birth of visible things to understand what is divine.” Diego opened his cloak, the iconic Christ, the Incarnation. He believed that every miracle Miracles are a call to faith and are meant to help image of Guadalupe was embla- found in Scripture was preparing for, demonstrating us grow in our faith. As in the first miracle at the wed- zoned inside. The famous tilma is or resulting from the Incarnation. ding at Cana (Gospel of John, chapter 2), and at the preserved in what is now the most In his book Miracles, Lewis argues that a Christian behest of the Blessed Mother, Jesus transforms water visited Catholic pilgrimage site in must accept and rejoice in miracles as testimony of the into wine. If we believe that Jesus has the power to the world, as Our Lady of Guada- unique personal involvement of God in his creation. change water into wine, imagine what he can do with lupe continues to inspire poor and Catholic theology also reminds us that while the our hearts! oppressed people worldwide. 6 DIOCESE The Valley Catholic - December 2019 Living Our Faith »Birthday & Anniversary Faith in the Valley How do you witness your Wishes We’ll see about that. No one is out faith in the world today? …But maybe you can of reach of the The list of birthdays and do some good for mercy of Christ. I attend classes of Divine Will ordination anniversaries is our children. with Deacon Rudy Sepulveda. provided so that parishioners (We are never to old to learn may remember the priests, more about our faith!) deacons and religious in their I then share what I learn prayers and send them a note with my ACTS prayer group or a card. It was a busy year sisters. (We call ourselves W.O.W. for the Oblates. They offered their Women of Worship.) We meet December first Mass in the several times a month. general store. I am a catechist for both CCD Birthdays and RCIA. (I love teaching!) » 1 Rev. Ariel Oliver Angel, JCL I am currently president of 1 Rev. Andres E. Gutierrez Gracie Olivarez-Limon OLPH’s ladies club. We sponsor Bishop Odin made a tour of his diocese, 9 Rev. Emmanuel Kwofie traveling from Laredo,to Brownsville, to Volunteer many activities in an effort to 11 Rev. Msgr. Gustavo Barrera Matamoros, confirming 11,000 people. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, help our parish with its many 11 Rev. Ricardo Chavez McAllen needs. 15 Rev. Arturo Castillo My favorite ministry is being 29 Rev. Jerzy E. Majka lector at our 9:15 Mass. Every 30 Rev. Gregory T. Labus My name is Gracie Olivarez- chance I get to share the word 30 Rev. Joel R. Flores Limon. I am a retired educator/ of our Lord is an honor to me. I “ 8 Sister Maria C. Santiago, HMRF counselor. I live my faith daily by am so Blessed to belong to such a staying involved with my parish. loving parish as OLPH. 21 Sister Maria E. Salazar, MEF But then Bishop Bishop Odin The Saint 19 Brother Sumner Herrick , FMS In just a year, with the Odin received traveled to changed his 24 Brother Francis Garza, FMS help of God and of his an unexpected France to plead mind. He sent Immaculate Mother, letter from with Bishop de We want to share with you 29 Brother Ross Wielatz, CFC you have woraked Mazenod. seven Oblates wonders. May heaven Bishop Eugene back with how we came to have so much 7 Deacon Henry N. Camacopa continue to smile upon de Mazenod, I beg of you to allow the “ your work here. Oblates to return to Texas. Bishop Odin. faith in God. 9 Deacon Jose G. Gonzalez founder of the There is no better place to Oblates… realize your mission - to preach At the beginning of our 17 Deacon Gilberto Lopez the good news to the poor. marriage we did not go to 22 Deacon Roberto Cano receive the sacraments even 27 Deacon Richard A. Longoria though we were married by the 31 Deacon Crawford A. Higgins Catholic Church. We didn’t go to Mass because we worked every » Anniversaries I am recalling Father day. We did not have time to 13 Rev. Genaro Hernriquez Telmon and the other 13 Rev. Rodolfo Franco Oblates to Canada. share with the family or money Mauricio and Juana Rodriguez to spend. 17 Rev. Msgr. Juan Nicolau, Ph.D But priests were not enough. Volunteers 19 Rev. Francisco Acosta We lived in Hereford, Bishop Odin knew he needed the help But, Bishop Odin, we Sacred Heart Church, Elsa 19 Rev. Thomas L. Pincelli of religious sisters. are contemplatives - we Texas. One Sunday as usual, 30 Rev. Robert DeLong, MSF Thank you, Excellency, for sharing know nothing of running my husband went to work, and help with the collection, and the your thrilling stories of life in You are the sisters I am a school. Texas. We pray that you will find seeking! I invite you to come his truck broke down. A man offerings. 18 Deacon Gerardo Aguilar the sisters you need to help you. with me to Texas and start a school for the children there. stopped to help him. He offered Right away we saw the 18 Deacon Antonio M. Arteaga to take him to buy the parts, difference financially and 18 Deacon Paul Escobar but my husband did not have spiritually. We continue to 18 Deacon David Espinoza Trust in God. money. On the way, he asked encourage our children to 18 Deacon Francisco R. Flores He will provide you 18 Deacon Reynaldo I. Flores with all you need. my husband if he was Catholic, receive the sacraments. We pray Take this and plant it in your new home 18 Deacon Javier A. Garcia in Texas. Let it remind you of the home and my husband replied yes. the Rosary together. Bless each you leave behind you in Lyons. 18 Deacon Oscar Garcia The man told my husband that other before going to bed. Pray 18 Deacon Silvestre J. Garcia if he did not know, Sunday was before and after we eat at home 18 Deacon Jose G. Gonzalez a time to attend Mass and spend or in public. 18 Deacon Gilberto Guardiola Jr. time with the family. The man We just celebrated our 50th 18 Deacon Crawford A. Higgins invited us to church on Sunday. wedding anniversary. We have 18 Deacon Amando Peña Jr. Since then, we started three sons, two daughters, 23 18 Deacon Gerardo J. Rosa Ave Maris Stella. Farewell, my native 18 Deacon Rodolfo Sepulveda Jr. landfarewell participating in the Holy grandchildren and 14 great- forever. Eucharist. We were invited to grandchildren. 18 Deacon Raymond Thomas Jr. 18 Deacon Catarino Villanueva 18 Deacon Armandin Villarreal 18 Deacon Luis Zuñiga In Galveston, the Sisters studied English and Spanish. They made good progress, but Bishop Odin was eager for them to begin their ministry in Brownsville. Rise at 4:30. Presentation What time do the Sisters Celebrate get up in the morning? advent set Dec. 7 on with a “The Four

We rise at five, Last Things” Excellency. Then you will have more time to perfect Jesse Tree your Spanish. The Benedictine Monastery TO BE CONTINUED d e v o t i o n of the Good Shepherd in Rio From Faith in the Valley: An Illustrated History of the Diocese of Brownsville Grande City is hosting two pre- sentations Saturday, Dec. 7 on First up is the gift of Faith. Faith helps us to believe in God and obey Great! Keep at it. Next up is the gift of Hope. With this gift, we “The Four Last Things: Death, him. The symbol of the cross is a reminder of our Faith in God. desire to be happy with God in Heaven, above everything else. We can know God more with this gift The anchor symbol reminds us that our hope is secure in God. Judgment, Heaven and Hell. of Faith by praying and listening to Him. Yes, no matter how hard life From now on... every time The first session will be offered I loooove to pray! gets, we can always have a smile I’m sad, I will think of my because God is our Hope. hope in God. in Spanish from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The English session will follow from 3 to 7 p.m. Deacon Rudy Sepulveda of McAllen and Deacon Juan Mar- tinez of Eagle Pass will serve as presenters. Sister Nancy Boushey said the presentations “will help us become eternity-minded.” For additional information TO BE CONTINUED and to register call (956) 486- Source: Catholic Diocese of Brownsville, Office of Stewardship and Development 2680. December 2019 - The Valley Catholic DIOCESE 7 Those Who Serve: Sister Nilcar Espenido and Sister Vivian Ndum Traveling the long road to vocations was to serve the Lord.” Two Sisters of The Congregation of the Sis- ters of St. Anne was founded in St. Anne reach 1850 by Esther Blondin in Que- bec, Canada. Its primary focus destination was faith education in co-educa- tional settings that have evolved in the Valley into a traditional classroom set- ting. St. Anne is the mother of By JESSE GALLEGOS the Blessed Virgin Mary, mother The Valley Catholic of Jesus, who read the scriptures to Mary when she was a very HARLINGEN — Discern- small child. St. Anne promised ment and the path to a vocation that she would give her child to can be a long journey for many. the service of God, and she kept For Sister Nilcar Espenido and her holy vow. Sister Vivian Ndum, two Sisters The discernment to a reli- of St. Anne serving in the Rio gious life is a difficult one for Grande Valley, their vocation many priests, sisters and reli- brought them to the Diocese of gious. Only through prayer and Brownsville from two far corners support from their family, friends of the world. and the Catholic community can Sister Ndum was born and Jesse Gallegos / The Valley Catholic they complete their vocation. raised in Cameroon, Africa. She Sister Nilcar Espenido, center, and Sister Vivian Ndum, right, both serve at St. Anthony Parish and School in Harlingen. Their And Catholics are bound to sup- attended a Catholic Elementary visiting colleague from the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Anne, Sister Delphine Apinjoh, serves in Corpus Christi. port vocations. School where nuns taught, and Pope Francis, in his address she says, “I just loved being one of just not a consideration. How- CCE, providing the spiritual cur- and it takes them nine years to at the Vatican on March 9 ahead them.” After her first communion ever, her parish priest guided her riculum at St. Anthony School become sisters. She studied phi- of the 56th World Day of Prayer, in the third grade, she told her and contacted the order. With the and supervising the altar servers. losophy and theology in Rome said, “Responding to the Lord’s mother she wanted to be a nun support of the Sisters of St. Anne, Sister Espenido was born and for five years, earning a bachelor’s call involves putting ourselves and to become more involved her mother and eventually her raised in the Philippines. Early degree. on the line and facing a great with her church. At a weeklong father came around and she was on, she struggled to find finan- Sister Espenido came to the challenge. It means being ready Archdiocese Vocations Camp able to begin her discernment. cial support in her discernment. United States in 2001 after living to leave behind whatever would during high school, she learned In time, her whole family In 1986, she wrote to the Mother in Italy for 25 years. Sister Espe- keep us tied to our little boat and about the Sisters of St. Anne. Sis- came to approve. Her maternal Superior of the Sisters of St. Anne nido has been at St. Anthony’s prevent us from making a defini- ter Ndum said, “I just kind of felt and paternal relatives were pres- from an address she found in a Church in Harlingen for nine tive choice.” inclined to the Sisters of St. Anne, ent for both her first and final book. A week later, the Mother years as a CCE teacher and direc- Sister Espenido and Sister for some reason.” vows, the latter in 2004. Superior responded and offered tor of altar servers. Ndum untied their little boats At first, her family was not Sister Ndum came to the her to pay her way to study in Ita- For her, choosing to be one of and left their beloved homelands supportive. Her father’s mother United States in 2013. She spent ly. Once her parish priest received the Sisters of St. Anne was easy. to minister his word. Both have was a member of royalty and con- four years in Pennsylvania and the money, she flew to Italy to be- “For me, the important thing proclaimed, “I am a Sister be- sidered a princess in Cameroon; has been at St. Anthony Parish in gin her formation. was to become a sister — what- cause I want to serve God.” therefore, becoming a nun was Harlingen for two years, teaching Future nuns are “professed” ever, wherever, however. To me, it Amen, Sisters.

Love, Hope, Joy, Peace The Light of the World 8 DIOCESE The Valley Catholic - December 2019 New liturgical year begins with Advent CATECHISM by JD FLYNN The Catholic Church has been POP QUIZ Catholic News Agency using advent wreaths since the Middle Ages. Lighting candles as we COLORADO — Advent starts prepare for Christmas reminds us Check your knowledge. The this year on Sunday, Dec. 1. Most that Christ is the light of the world. following questions are derived Catholics, even those who don’t of- And the evergreen boughs remind from the Catechism of the ten go to Mass, know that Advent us of new and eternal life in Christ, Catholic Church. In parentheses involves a wreath with some can- the eternal son of the Father. is the number that refers to the dles, possibly a “calendar” of hidden It is definitely true that paragraphs in the Catechism. chocolates, and untangling strings Germanic people were lighting of Christmas lights. up candle wreaths in wintertime But Advent is more than that. long before the Gospel arrived Here are a few points that might in their homeland. They did so 60. Advent celebrates help you have a great Advent this because, well, candle wreaths in (524): year: winter are beautiful and warm. What is Advent? That a Christian symbol emerged a. the expectation of the The people of Israel waited from that tradition is an indication Messiah generations for the promised that the Gospel can be expressed b. the desire for Jesus’ second coming Messiah to arrive. Their poetry, Courtesy Photo through the language, customs, and their songs and stories, and their symbols of cultures that come to c. the expansion of Christ Many families have incorporated an Advent wreath into their preparations leading up religious worship focused on an believe that Christ Jesus is Lord. in the world to Christmas. For instructional videos on how to make a wreath visit the Diocese of awaited savior, whom God had One candle is pink. Why? d. the expansion of Christ Brownsville YouTube page. promised, over and over, would There are four candles on the within each individual come to them to set them free are practical, like decorating a tree Wednesday in 2019, so Advent will Advent wreath. Three are purple, from captivity, and to lead them to or stringing lights, but they’re also be three weeks and two days long. and they are first lit on the first, 61. Apart from Mary the fulfillment of all that God had second, and fourth Sundays of intended to be spiritual. Ok, my priest keeps talking and Joseph the first chosen for them. Advent. The pink candle is lit on During Advent, we’re invited to about Advent being the “new year.” witnesses of Jesus’ Israel longed for a Messiah, and enter more frequently into silence, But Advent is before Christmas. the third Sunday of Advent, which birth were (525): John the Baptist, who came before into prayer and reflection, into What’s the deal? we call Gaudete Sunday. On that Jesus, promised that the Messiah Scripture, and into the sacramental The Church’s feasts andSunday, in addition to the pink a. the angles was coming, and could be found in life of the Church, all to prepare for celebrations run on a year-long candle, the priest wears a pink b. the shepherds Jesus Christ, God’s son, the “Lamb celebrating Christmas. cycle, which we call the “liturgical vestment, which he might refer to c. the Magi of God who takes away the sins of The Catechism of the Catholic year.” The “liturgical year” starts on as rose. But rose, from this writer’s d. all of the above the world.” Church says the goal of Advent is to the first Sunday of Advent. So it’s a perspective, is a shade of pink. Advent is a season in the make present for ourselves and our new liturgical year when Advent Gaudete is a word that means 62. According to the Church’s life intended to renew the families the “ancient expectancy of starts. But the Church also uses “Rejoice!” and we rejoice on Catechism the experience of waiting, and longing, the Messiah...by sharing in the long the ordinary calendar, so it would Gaudete Sunday, because we are condition for entering for the Messiah. Though Christ halfway through Advent. Some preparation for the Savior’s first probably be a bit weird to have a the kingdom is (526): has already come into the world, people have the custom of throwing coming.” “New Year’s Eve” party the night a. humility the Church invites us to renew our Cool. So, it’s like four weeks long? before Advent starts. “Gaudete” parties, and this is also a b. hope desire for the Lord more deeply into Advent is a slightly different Still, though, Catholicism has traditional day on which Christmas our lives, and to renew our desire length each year. It starts four a lot of weird feasts, so if you have carolers begin caroling door-to- c. charity for Christ’s triumphant second Sundays before Christmas. But a “New Liturgical Year’s Eve” party, door. d. faith coming into the world. because Christmas is on a fixed invite me. The three purple candles are Advent is the time in which date, and could fall on different days And, Advent wreaths. Where sometimes said to represent prayer, Source: Jim Seghers’ Totus Tuus

we prepare for Christmas, the of the week, Advent can be as short do they come from? Is it true that fasting, and almsgiving, the three Ministries, http://www.totustuus.com memorial of Jesus Christ being as three weeks and a day, or as long they’re just pagan wreaths borrowed spiritual disciplines that are key to a 19. page see key answer For born into the world. Preparations as four weeks. Christmas is on a by the Church? fruitful Advent. December 2019 - The Valley Catholic YEAR IN REVIEW 9 Highlights A year of encounters and self-giving The Catholic community in the Rio Grande Valley continues to live and witness the faith as we encounter the Lord Jesus and shows its generosity in support of life and offering assistance where needed. Daily we find examples of “generosity generating generosity.” As Bishop Daniel E. Flores reminds us, “The love of God is a grace of love offered, recognized and returned.”

Family Life Office gives celebrate the excellence in Catholic educa- Mothers, Daughters time to talk tion and raise funds for tuition assistance. JANUARY The Mother-Daughter program has A Diocesan honoree and honorees from become an annual tradition. This year two each of the schools were recognized. sessions were hosted on Jan. 26 where for mothers and their daughters, ages 10- Diocese releases ‘credibly accused’ list March for 12 years old, had time to learn together In a step to restore trust in the Church, about the beauty of God’s plan for girls each Catholic diocese in Texas releases a list Life in D.C. and the process of becoming a woman. of priests against whom credible allega- tions of sexual abuse of a minor have been Annual Spirit Awards determined. The Diocese of Brownsville A delegation from the dio- celebrates Catholic education releases its list on Jan. 31. cese traveled to Washington, The Catholic Schools Office host 22nd D.C. to attend the March for Life Annual Spirit Awards banquet Jan. 25 to Jan. 18. Thousands gather each year for the world’s largest pro-life event in reparation for the more 140 complete Lay Ministry formation Last original priest of diocese passes than 57 million babies who have At St. Anthony Parish in Harlingen, Bishop Msgr. Patrick Doherty, the last priest been killed in the United States Daniel E. Flores celebrated Mass and then in the Diocese of Brownsville who served since the Roe v. Wade Supreme presented 140 participants with certificates under all the bishops, from Bishop Adolph Court ruling on Jan. 22, 1973 Jan. 12 for completing the two-year forma- Marx to Bishop Daniel E. Flores, in the that legalized abortion. tion program through the San Juan Diego diocese’s 50-plus-year history, died Jan. 23 Lay Ministry Institute. at San Juan Nursing Home at the age of 87.

Diocese marks World Youth Day FEBRUARY Poor Clares of America Feb. 5 at the Order’s assembly in Lima, Peru. Scout Sunday Bishop Daniel E. Flores celebrated a Mass for Scout Sunday on Feb. 10 at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle- National Shrine. The bishop presented the youth with the religious medals and awards they earned through study and practice. March for Life in downtown McAllen Supporters of life gather by the hundreds to participate in the March for Life Feb. 2 in downtown McAllen. The march, which begins at St. Joseph The Worker parish and ends at Sacred Heart Church, coincides with national pro-life events.

“Sing to the Lord” musicians workshop particularly those responsible for coordinat- The Office of Liturgy and Worship for the ing the music at Mass and other liturgical Diocese of Brownsville hosted “Sing to the celebrations. Young people 16-35 celebrate World Youth Day at “Light of Lord: Music in Divine Worship,” a musicians Hope” Feb. 2 in Mission. The celebration featured Mass, keynote workshop, on Feb. 9 at the San Juan Pastoral Sister Beatriz Ayala of Alamo Basilica marks World Marriage Day speakers, breakout sessions and music. Pope Francis had just cel- Center. Father Greg Labus and Father Derlis picked to lead nation’s Poor Clares Couples of long-standing gather Feb. ebrated World Youth Day days earlier in Panama. Garcia provided formation and resources Sister Beatriz Ayala of Alamo is elected 9 at the Basilica for a Mass with blessings for those involved in the ministry of music, president of the Confederation of Capuchin for their marriages at World Marriage Day.

the 86th Texas Legislature at and lead a rally on the Capitol MARCH steps. Auxiliary Bishop Mario Kolbe Retreats offered A. Avilés was accompanied by for men in prison a delegation of more than 80 In collaboration with the diocesan lay faithful from the Diocese Office of Jail Ministry, volunteers hold annu- of Brownsville. al three-day Kolbe retreats for prisoners at Fifth graders learn three state jail units in the Rio Grande Valley. about vocations Bishop Daniel E. Flores blesses a participant Fifth-grade students from Catholic at the conclusion of a Kolbe retreat March 16 schools across the diocese gathered at the Lopez State Unit in Edinburg. March 7 for the annual Fifth Grade Vocation Day to interact with priests, deacons and religious brothers and sis- ters to learn more about religious voca- tions. Bishop Flores celebrated a Mass Catholic Charities honors for them at the Basilica of Our Lady of couple with Hope Award Catholics gather at State Capitol San Juan del Valle. On March 7, Catholic Charities of the The Texas Catholic Faith in port the Church’s values of life, Rio Grande Valley at its 9th annual Catholic Action Advocacy Day at the State justice, charity and religious free- Charities Gala at Embassy Suites in McAllen Capitol in Austin March 26 brings dom. honor hoteliers Barry and Jayshree Patel thousands of Texas Catholics to- During the day, bishops and with its 2019 Hope Award, which recognizes gether to lobby lawmakers to sup- delegates met with lawmakers for those who serve the most vulnerable mem- bers of society. 10 YEAR IN REVIEW The Valley Catholic - December 2019

It all culminates APRIL on Easter Sunday a celebration April 11 at la Catedral de Lent, Chrism Mass, Stations Nuestra Señora del Refugio in honor of of the Cross and Holy Week all the 60th anniversary of the Diocese of precede Easter, the Church’s Matamoros, Mexico. most important day commem- orating the Resurrection of McAllen Pregnancy Center Our Lord. improvements Stewardship Conference McAllen Pregnancy Center’s 10th an- urges fervent discipleship nual Gala April 26 begins with Mass by The 7th Annual Diocesan Stewardship Bishop Daniel E. Flores at St. Paul Church Conference at the San Juan Pastoral Center to the United States Courthouse. Bishop Daniel E. Flores and Auxiliary Bishop in Mission, followed by the gala at Mis- April 4-5 challenges participants to find Mario A. Avilés, C.O., participate. sion Event Center. Proceeds from the gala practical ways of service to neighbors, fol- benefit operating costs and renovations at lowing the example of Christ. Ride for Hope boosts charity relief efforts the Center’s new location across the street The Third Annual Ride for Hope on April 7, a 20-mile, fully protected bi- from the Valley’s only abortion mill. Walk for Life in Brownsville cycle ride along a scenic route of three cities, benefits humanitarian relief ef- Hundreds participate in the Browns- forts in our community. The route runs by the border wall at the Old Hidalgo St. Joan of Arc Parish Pumphouse Park and ends at Sacred Heart Church in downtown McAllen. 90th anniversary ville Walk for Life on April 6, to promote a culture of Begun as a mission of Our Lady of life in our community. The walk includes a rally at the Diocese of Matamoros marks 60-year anniversary Mercy Parish of Mercedes in 1921, St. Joan Immaculate Conception Cathedral and a one-mile walk Bishop Daniel E. Flores and Auxiliary Bishop Mario A. Avilés, C.O., attend of Arc Church became a parish in 1929.

Radio stations sold 3 new deacons ordained Immaculate Heart Media, Inc. begin Three new deacons, Joe Louis Hernan- operating FM radio stations KJJF and KHID dez, Pedro Hernandez and Robert Moreno MAY with new programming after sale and Jr., are ordained May 31 at the Basilica of transfer from the Diocese is completed. Our Lady of San Juan del Valley — National Diocese hosts Shrine. Blue Mass for first responders Diocesan Blue Mass for first responders draws hundreds of law enforcement officers, fire- fighters and first-responders May 8 to the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle—Na- tional Shrine to be honored and blessed.

Humanitarian JUNE Respite Center marks 5 years; 150,000 served The humanitarian Respite Center marks five years of ser- vice in McAllen, then moves to new location across from the bus station even as refugee num- bers peak at over 1,000 a day; more than 150,000 refugee im- Pro-Life Conference in McAllen migrants have passed through Bishop Daniel E. Flores calls abortion “the gravest assault on human dignity in the world during the center’s history. today,” and warns against marginalizing the lives of the old, the sick and the poor to a crowd of 250 at Sacred Heart Parish Hall June 15.

Count your blessings What are some of the highlights from your year? In what ways did God surprise you? In what ways did you return God’s graces?

Valley man chosen to lead Serrans Dr. Ruben Gallegos named president of Serra International at the organization’s storm flooded many parts of the Mid-Valley. Summer Food Program Meals, snacks international convention in Mexico City — A number of parishioners volunteer to provided to children when school is out the first person from the Valley to hold that assist with recovery; some wading into one For the 10th consecutive summer, Cath- position. of the hardest hit homes to start cleanup and olic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, in col- repairs. laboration with the USDA Food and Nutrition Volunteers assist families Service and the Texas Department of Agricul- hard-hit by flooding Youth Stewardship Retreat ture, sponsors Summer Food Service Program A night of heavy rain June 24 floods features nature watch to provide children with nutritious meals the homes of many parishioners of St. Mary Youths representing 15 parishes in the when school is out for the summer. More Give thanks to the LORD, who is good, whose mercy Diocese of Brownsville participated in the Church in Santa Rosa and other areas near than 60,000 meals served to school-age chil- endures forever. Psalms 106:1 the Hidalgo-Cameron County line. This Fourth Annual Youth Stewardship Retreat on dren throughout the Rio Grande Valley. storm is almost a year to the day after a 2018 June 29 at Camp Thicket in Weslaco. December 2019 -The Valley Catholic YEAR IN REVIEW 11

JULY

cese of Boston from a former church there Prison Ministry witnesses conversion built in the 1840s. Serving an impoverished Following a Mass with the men who attended and facilitated the rural community, the San Juan Diego mis- Kolbe Prison Retreat July 11-13 at Segovia State Prison in Edinburg, sion church rose almost completely on the the men offered prayers for Bishop Daniel E. Flores. Ofelia de los San- strength of donated labor and materials. tos, director of Jail Ministry for the Diocese of Brownsville, said the Miraculous mission church retreat inspired three volunteers to step forward and start a prepara- The new San Juan Diego mission church is dedicated July 14 in Co- tion class for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), and 10 lonia El Flaco / Citrus City northwest of Mission. The spacious church men at the prison have already signed up to attend. features magnificent stained glass windows donated by the Archdio-

Sister Norma honored AUGUST for CCRGV work

Sister Norma Pimen- 150,000 immigrants to date. tel receives the Leadership The Respite Center has ex- Conference of Women Re- panded from Sister Pimen- ligious Outstanding Lead- tel’s request for temporary ership Award at the orga- use of a parish hall during nization’s annual assembly an influx of refugees in 2014. in Scottsdale, Arizona. She Her work has brought praise Border Bishops Meeting in Matamoros is honored for her work as from Pope Francis, and me- Texas Mexico Border Bishops meet in Mat- the executive director of dia coverage on 60 Minutes, amoros to discuss issues affecting both nations Catholic Charities of the Rio 20/20, CNN, Catholic News along the frontier. Grande Valley and the Hu- Service and Texas Monthly manitarian Respite center, magazine. which has served more than

SEPTEMBER

Catechetical Convocation in Harlingen Hundreds of catechists converge at Har- lingen’s new Convention Center for the an- Cristero saint’s relics at the Basilica nual Catechetical Convocation Sept. 28 for a Relics of San Jose Sanchez del Rio day of blessings, fellowship and inspiration. Father Roy Snipes visit the Basilica Sept. 12. He was martyred a Lumen Christi finalist during the Cristero War after refusing to Father Roy Snipes, pastor of Our Lady renounce his faith. of Guadalupe Church in Mission, named one of 11 finalists for the Lumen Christi Award of Catholic Extension.

Brownsville community responds to Spotlight on the asylum seekers waiting in Mexico life of Conchita Cabrera Refugee numbers in the Rio Grande Valley drop precipitously The life of Blessed Maria Concepcion after the Trump administration implements a “Remain in Mexico” Church-issued IDs debut in Valley Cabrera de Armida, a prolific writer and policy, a change that keeps asylum seekers waiting in Mexico pend- The Diocese and Valley Interfaith in- defender of the Church, is discussed at Bishop dedicates new altar ing review of their requests. Correspondingly, during the summer troduce a parish-issued identification card the Apostolado de la Cruz at the Basilica Bishop Flores dedicates the new altar at numbers decline at the Respite Center from as many as 1,000-plus a program at a meeting of 500 in Las Milpas, Sept. 21-22. She is on track to become Our Lady, Queen of Peace Parish in La Joya day to only 20 or 25. Volunteers in Brownsville cross border daily to mirroring a similar successful program in the the first lay woman from Mexico to Sept. 14. minister at tent cities. Dallas area. achieve sainthood. 12 YEAR IN REVIEW The Valley Catholic - December 2019

Walk for Life in Edinburg A Walk for Life by supporters of life and the Knights of Columbus draws a crowd to OCTOBER march and rally at Edinburg City Hall.

Migrant Family of the Year The Becerra family, including UTRGV Order’s 100-year anniversary administrator Beatriz Becerra-Barckholtz, Immaculate Heart of Mary sisters Ph.D., is chosen as Migrant Family of the Year (ICM) mark 100 years in the United States. at the Basilica, and is recognized at Migrant Welcoming Festival Oct. 18.

Canonization of Pro-Life Week The Catholic community celebrates Pro- St. John Henry Newman Life Sunday, Oct. 6 with a ballon campaign Father Tad presents at the White Mass followed by a week of pro-life activities Oct. Blessed John Henry Newman is canonized Oct. 13 in Rome; Bish- Health care professionals attend the 13-19. op Avilés, Father Derlis and others from the Valley attend. Red Mass for the legal profession White Mass Oct. 17 at St. Anthony Church in The Red Mass Oct. 23 honoring and Harlingen; ethicist and newspaper columnist blessing lawyers, judges and others of the Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk speaks on the fal- legal profession at Holy Family Church in lacies and problems of in vitro fertilization. Edinburg.

NOVEMBER Emily’s Meals gains family national recognition

The Aguirre family of McAl- Sharing Basket feeds mulititudes len is named Disney’s and Points Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande of Light Volunteer Family of Valley and its partners KRGV-TV Channel the Year, as announced live on 5 and Peter Piper Pizza once again feed ABC’s Good Morning America. some 5,000 families through Sharing Bas- The family is honored for Em- ket, after volunteers assemble baskets of ily’s Meals, a program to help the non-perishable food items collected in food homeless that began with then- drives at Valley schools. The baskets then go 6-year-old Emily Aguirre’s wish to parishes in Starr and Hidalgo counties for to help the homeless. distribution to families in need. In MEMORIAM 2019 “The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God.” Wisdom 3:1 Deacon Alejandro Gamboa Sister Rosalia Fink Monsignor Patrick Doherty April 24, 1936 – Oct. 16, 2019 Feb. 20, 1932-Oct. 22, 2019 March 25, 1931 – Jan. 23, 2019 Deacon Alejandro Z. Gamboa, Sister Rosalia Fink, 87, passed Msgr. Patrick Doherty, 87, the 83, passed away Oct. 16 at his home away Oct. 22 in Crookston, last priest in the Diocese of Browns- He was ordained as a deacon on May Minnesota. A Benedictine, she was ville who served under all the bish- 12, 1990 and served at St. Joseph the a teacher and principal in Minnesota ops in the diocese’s 53-year history, Worker Catholic Church in McAllen and Texas. From 1990-2006, she from Bishop Adolph Marx to Bishop for more than 29 years. worked for the Community Action Daniel E. Flores, passed away Jan. 23 Council of South Texas in Rio Grande at San Juan Nursing Home. City. Later she returned to launch Deacon Eduardo Ovalle the South Texas Empowerment of Sister Gloria Dominguez, MJ Oct. 13, 1930 – June 21, 2019 Women Center, a shelter for abused June 28, 1939 - Jan. 20, 2019 Eduardo Ovalle Sr., 88, passed women and children. Sister Gloria Dominguez, 79, away June 21 in Defiance, Ohio. passed away Jan. 20 at San Juan He served as a deacon at St. Joseph Nursing Home. She worked as a Church in Donna from 1994 until catechist and in parish ministry his retirement in 2005 before Deacon Roberto Cantu at Sacred Heart Parish in Elsa and moving to Ohio to be with his May 14, 1938 – Oct. 28, 2019 Christ the King Mission Church in family in 2014. Deacon Roberto Cantu, 81, Monte Alto. passed away Oct. 28. Ordained May Monsignor Robert DaVola 12, 1990, he served at Our Lady of Deacon Benito Flores Jan. 28, 1940 – April 26, 2019 Mercy and Sacred Heart parishes in April 3, 1927 – Jan. 16, 2019 Msgr. Robert “Bob” DaVola, 79, Mercedes, where he helped to au- Deacon Benito Gonzales Flores, passed away on April 26 in Mission. tomate years of church records for 91, of San Benito, passed away He served in various parishes here many parishes in the Rio Grande Jan. 16. He was ordained to the and as Administrator of the Diocese Valley and also made a log of people permanent diaconate in May 1980 for nearly two years after the buried in local cemeteries. and served at St. Theresa Catholic untimely death of Bishop Enrique Church in San Benito for 38 years. San Pedro in 1994. Sister Mary Elizabeth Sardinha, SSD Father Ignacio Luna Father Vicente Azcoiti March 21, 1934 – April 10, 2019 Dec. 25, 1939 – March 15, 2019 March 24, 1931 – Dec. 15, 2018 Sister Mary E. Sardinha of the Father Ignacio Luna, 79, a re- Father Vicente Azcoiti, 87, a Sisters of St. Dorothy, 85, passed tired priest, passed away March 15. retired priest of the Diocese of away April 10, in Taunton, Mass. She He served in various parishes within Brownsville, passed away on Dec. served in the Diocese of Brownsville the diocese from 1984 until his re- 15, 2018 at San Juan Nursing Home. from 1997-2016, teaching adult tirement in 2016 and published a A native of Spain, Father Azcoiti had education at Resurrection Parish book of his poetry in 2017. served the diocese since 1966. and St. Joan of Arc Parish in Weslaco. Deciembre 2019 - The Valley Catholic NOTICIAS EN ESPAÑOL 13 El Obispo Flores impulsa a todos a participar en el Censo 2020 estas preguntas y muchas otras, y en la conferencia de McAllen. “El Es seguro, para hacerlo, se necesita un conteo intercambio de esta información exacto. El Obispo Flores dijo (Censo) con los feligreses es muy importante que la Diócesis de Brownsville poderoso”. comenzó a trabajar con sus El calendario de publicación ser contado, sacerdotes y feligreses hace meses de cartas y formularios al público para hacer correr la voz sobre el en general comenzará en la Censo. Ve un papel específico que primavera de 2020. El 12 y el 20 dice la Iglesia puede desempeñar para de marzo, la Oficina del Censo llegar a las colonias y cambiar enviará invitaciones en línea y Por R. DANIEL CAVAZOS la naturaleza crónica de los cuestionarios en papel. Las cartas Catholic News Service recuentos inferiores en esas áreas. de recordatorio se enviarán la “Necesitamos cambiar ese semana siguiente en marzo. Se McALLEN — Obispo Daniel refrán”, dijo el obispo sobre enviarán recordatorios y cartas E. Flores considera que el Valle los recuentos rurales. “Nos adicionales a finales de marzo a del Río Grande es una comunidad preocupan las zonas fuera de las mediados de abril, con las visitas de muchas comunidades. ciudades más grandes”. personales necesarias realizadas a El obispo llegó a esta Los resultados del Censo partir de entonces. descripción después de muchos 2020 tendrán un efecto La Oficina del Censo se está viajes por y alrededor de la región directo en la vida diaria de los preparando para estos intensos de cuatro condados que conforma estadounidenses. Más de $675 mil esfuerzos contratando a 7,000 la diócesis que él supervisa. millones en fondos federales en trabajadores para cubrir el Valle El Obispo Flores describe un infraestructura, atención médica, de cuatro condados. Olson espera área de ciudades más grandes y carreteras y educación se basarán que a nivel nacional, la mayoría comunidades más pequeñas con en el número del Censo. Lo mismo R. Daniel Cavazos / The Valley Catholic de los estadounidenses respondan una confederación informal de ocurre con la determinación de la En un foro del Censo 2020 el 19 de noviembre en el Centro de Convenciones de al Censo en línea, pero eso no será zonas rurales conocidas durante representación política estatal y McAllen, el Obispo Daniel E. Flores dijo que es importante, que todos sean tomados aplicable en muchas de las zonas mucho tiempo como colonias. federal en Austin y Washington, en cuenta. rurales del Valle que no están El Censo 2020 definirá y D.C. conectadas a Internet. aclarará esta extensa región, su Con tanto en estos números, dijo, y la agencia no compartirá los esfuerzos de la administración Son estas áreas más difíciles gente y sus comunidades, y el un alto funcionario de la Oficina los resultados de la encuesta con Trump para insertar la pregunta de llegar a donde el Obispo obispo dijo que el conteo oficial del Censo de los Estados Unidos otras entidades gubernamentales. en la encuesta. Olson espera Flores quiere aplicar un enfoque del decenio tendrá implicaciones vino a McAllen para asistir a la “Hay muchas personas en que la omisión de esa pregunta especial. Su mensaje es que es de largo alcance. conferencia y hacer un punto todo el país que están preocupadas fomentará el conteo de cada seguro participar en el Censo, y “Tenemos que saber quiénes crítico. Los datos del Censo por el Censo en la atmósfera persona que vive en hogares que todas las áreas merecen ser somos y dónde estamos”, dijo el sólo se utilizarán para producir actual (política)”, dijo Olson. “No individuales. El funcionario contadas. Obispo Flores el 19 de noviembre estadísticas, dijo Timothy Olson, el podemos ni compartiremos esa del Censo dijo que las iglesias “Nosotros, queremos animar en un foro del censo de 2020 director asociado de operaciones información con otra entidad desempeñarán un papel clave en a todos a tener confianza en la en McAllen. “¿Cuantos años sobre el terreno de la Oficina gubernamental”. la solución de los temores sobre la realización del Censo”, dijo el tenemos? ¿Cuántos jóvenes del Censo. Cada empleado de la Olson subrayó que no hay confidencialidad del Censo. obispo. “Tenemos que explicar la somos y cuáles son las tendencias? oficina hace un juramento para ninguna pregunta de ciudadanía “Me complace haber importancia de que todos sean El Censo buscará responder proteger la información personal, en el Censo de 2020 a pesar de escuchado al Obispo”, dijo Olson tomados en cuenta”.

Noche de SANACIÓN y DIVINA MISERICORDIA Night of Healing and Divine Mercy Acompáñenos cada ultimo sábado del mes en la Basilia de Nuestra Señora San Juan del Valle en San Juan, Texas a las 6:30 PM Join us every last Saturday of the month at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle, San Juan, Texas at 6:30 PM with Msgr. Juan Nicolau, Ph.D leading us in prayer 14 NOTICIAS EN ESPAÑOL The Valley Catholic - Deciembre 2019 »La Alegría Alto a la persecución de Vivir de nuestros semejantes Fe en el Valle Ya veremos. Nadie e todos es conocido el daño salvaron y los mayorcitos regresaron a está fuera del que han hecho las leyes que pie a sus comunidades pidiendo ayuda alcance de la …Pero Pueden misericordia de se han propuesto en estos para los heridos. hacer algún bien Cristo. Dúltimos tres años acerca de cómo se Las causas y los agresores para nuestros hijos. trata a los inmigrantes justo cuando todavía no se determinan, pero la son detenidos al cruzar la frontera sin persecución no es algo ajeno a ese documentos en regla, que si bien han grupo de personas, por ser miembros sido aprobadas, también es cierto que fundamentalistas de la iglesia de los jueces de distrito en diversas cortes santos de los últimos días, huyeron Fue un año muy federales, las han bloqueado, detenido de Utah y Arizona hace cien años ocupado para los y hasta refutado, sin embargo las más o menos, cuando se les concedió oblatos. Celebraron consecuencias que han tenido para por el gobierno mexicano, que se su primera misa en miles de hispanos, adultos, infantes y establecieran como una comunidad la tienda principal. Msgr. Juan Nicolau, menores, son atroces. agrícola autosustentable en las zonas Ph.D.,STL Los obispos de las diócesis a lo más áridas de dichos estados, ellos Sacerdote jubilado de la largo de todos los estados americanos y sus descendientes siguen siendo que hacen frontera con México, han americanos por nacimiento y El Obispo Odin hiza un recorrido de toda su Diócesis de Brownsville diócesis, viajando de Laredo a Brownsville, a expresado por años, la necesidad de mexicanos también. Matamoros, confirmando a 11,000 personas. formar un frente unido para conseguir Es cierto que en nuestro país no una reforma migratoria que tome vivimos bajo la sombra de temor al en cuenta el lado humano y moral maltrato debido a nuestras creencias, de la aplicación de las leyes, pues pero la persecución se presenta por la calidad moral de una nación se otros motivos y suele tener muchas mide de acuerdo a como trata a los caras. Miles de familias de todas segmentos más débiles que componen las culturas, han sufrido la angustia su sociedad. de saber que sus hijos, padres o Tal vez tú nunca has sido un hermanos, han padecido la violencia, El Obispo Eugenio El Obispo Odin El Santo extranjero, o inmigrante, pues gracias los secuestros y desapariciones En solamente un año, de Mazenod, el viajó a Francia cambió de con la ayuda de dios y fundador de los para suplicarle a Dios naciste de este lado de la debido a la lucha de poderes entre su madre Inmaculada, opinión. Mandó frontera, pero seguramente te habrás narcotraficantes que se está dando en ustedes han hecho Oblatos, estaba al Obispo de a siete Oblatos maravillas. Que el preocupado Mazenod. de regreso con sentido perseguido alguna vez. No nuestra frontera. cielo siga bendiciendo por la salud de Le Ruego que permita que los su trabajo. Oblatos regresen a Texas. No el Obispo Odin. hace ni una semana que, en caminos Ahora que se le ha dado tanta los sacerdotes hay un lugar mejor para hacer rurales entre los estados de Chihuahua difusión a este caso de la familia sirviendo en Texas. realidad su misión para predicar y Sonora, a menos de 80 millas de LeBaron, es justo y adecuado que la buena nueva a los pobres. la línea fronteriza con Arizona, se meditemos acerca de los sufrimientos asesinaron a nueve miembros de una de todos los miembros más desvalidos sola familia, tres madres y seis de de nuestra sociedad, y si tú te sientes sus hijos pequeños, unos cuantos se » Por favor lea Alto p.19 Les ordenó que regresaran a Canadá. »Vida Pero con los sacerdotes no era suficiente. El Obispo Odin sabía que necesitaban la La luz de Cristo Pero, Obispo Odin, somos Familiar ayuda de hermanas religiosas. contemplativas - no sabemos nada de dirigir Gracias, su excelencia por compartir ¡Ustedes son las hermanas una escuela. sus historias emocionantes de la vida en que yo busco! Las invito a venir en nosotros Texas. Oramos que usted encuentre a las conmigo a Texas y fundar una hermanas que necesita para ayudarle. sta temporada especial del de amor a todos. Que al encender las escuela para los niños de allí. Adviento puede ser un tiempo velas de esta corona el aumento de su maravilloso para reflexionar brillo nos recuerde la cercania de Tu Een la “Luz de Cristo que habita en Hijo que se aproxima para que el día Confíen en Dios. Él les proveerá todo cada uno de nosotros”. Nuestra Fe de Su llegada nos encuentre prepara- lo que necesiten. Toma esto y plántalo en tu nuevo Catolica tiene abundantes y hermo- dos y llenos de gozo.Esto lo pedimos hogar en Texas. Deja que te recuerde sos rituales, oraciones, y simbolos en el nombre de Cristo nuestro del hogar que dejas atrás en Lyon. que nos pueden ayudar a conectar Señor. Amen.” con esos deseos profundos, pre- Al encender el arbol de Navidad sentes en cada uno de nosotros, de en Gubbio, Italia el 8 de Diciembre tener una relacion con la Santisima del 2014, el papa Francisco declaro: Lydia Pesina Trinidad. Deseamos esa relacion con “Al encender la Luz del Pesebre Dios, nuestro Padre celestial y con (Belen), deseamos que la Luz de Directora, Oficina Su Hijo Jesus por quien esperamos la Cristo esté en nosotros. Una Navidad Ave Maris Stella. Adiós, mi patria de Vida Familiar adiós por siempre. celebracion de ese dia especial en que sin luz no es Navidad. Que haya luz recordamos Su nacimiento el cual en el alma, en el corazon; que haya dio vuelta al mundo sobre su eje y perdón para los demas; que no hayan cambio el curso de la historia (hasta hostilidades, que son oscuridad. Que cambiamos el calendario). Durante esté presente la hermosa luz de Jesus. En Galveston, la hermanas estudiaban esta temporada, confiamos que el Este es mi deseo para todos ustedes, inglés y español. Hicieron buen progreso, Espiritu Santo nos guie hasta aden- cuando enciendan la luz del Pesebre.” pero el Obispo Odin estaba ansioso de que tranos al 2021 Ano Domini — en el “ … Si tienes algo oscuro en iniciaran su ministerio en Brownsville. Levántense a las 4:30. año de nuestro Señor. tu alma, pidele perdón al Señor. ¿A qué hora se levantan las Como Sociedad, parece que Navidad es una gran oportunidad de hermanas en la mañana? anhelamos encontrar significado a limpiar el alma. No tengas miedo, el través de los simbolos. Las tiendas sacerdote es misericordioso, per- exhiben una variedad inmensa de donando todo en el nombre de Dios, todo tipo de decoraciones, coronas, porque Dios perdona todo.” luces y simbolos festivos ; a veces no Hay tantos mensajes hermosos No levantamos a las cinco, su excelencia. Entonces tendran necesariamente “Simbolos Navide- que pueden elevar nuestro espiritu más tiempo para perfeccionar su español ños”. Quizas la razon por la que nos durante las temporadas de Adviento Continuará sentimos atraidos al brillo y las luces y Navidad; nos pueden recordar que Del libro, Fe en el Valle: Una historia ilustrada de la Diócesis de Brownsville es precisamente nuestra búsqueda de aprovechemos las gracias de los esa luz interna que a cada uno se nos sacramentos de la Reconciliacion ha regalado. y la Eucaristia y animarnos a ser Juan 8:12 — “Jesús les habló de “vedaderos regalos” unos a otros nuevo diciendo: ‘Yo soy la luz del especialmente en nuestra familia. Y mundo. El que me sigue no caminará aun de manera mas especial, estos the en tinieblas, sino que tendrá luz y recordatorios nos pueden impulsar a vida..” (Biblia Latinoamericana) entregarnos a los demas a traves de Empezando el Adviento, nuestras nuestro tiempo, talento y tesoro, so- familias pueden reflexionar en Jesus bre todo a aquellos con las mayores como la Luz del Mundo al bendecir necesidades emocionales, espirituales la Corona de Adviento en la mesa y materiales. familiar. Loyola Press tiene esta Jesus nos recuerda en Mateo is coming oración para Encender la Corona de 5:14-16 “Ustedes son la luz para el Adviento: “Bendito seas, O Señor mundo. No se puede esconder una Dios nuestro,Rey del universo. Tu ciudad edificada sobre un cerro. No enviaste a Tu Hijo para ser la Luz del se enciende una lámpara para es-

mundo y para que esparciera su luz » Por favor lea Luz de Cristo p.19 KING Deciembre 2019 - The Valley Catholic NOTICIAS EN ESPAÑOL 15 7 medios espirituales que ayudarán ¿Qué significa la a vivir al máximo el Adviento Corona de Adviento? ACI Prensa ACI Prensa The Valley Catholic El sacerdote, escritor y Muchas familias están 1. La forma circular funcionario de la Secretaría de incorporando una El P. Sam señala que la forma circular de la corona, sin un Estado del Vaticano, Mons. Florian corona de Adviento en inicio ni un final, hace referencia al “amor de Dios que es Kolfhaus, compartió siete medios sus hogares mientras eterno, sin principio y sin fin, y también de nuestro amor a Dios y al prójimo que nunca debe de terminar”. espirituales prepararse y recibir a esperan la Navidad. Cristo en Navidad. Videos de cómo 1. Empezar la jornada con Dios 2. Las ramas verdes Levantarse unos 10 minutos hacer una corona “Dios quiere que esperemos su gracia, el perdón de los pecados antes de lo habitual permite tener se encuentran en y la gloria eterna al final de nuestras vidas”, señala el sacerdote, un tiempo para Dios y empezar bien YouTube, en el canal al referirse al color verde, que representa la esperanza y vida. la jornada. Una oración personal, de la diócesis. “El anhelo más importante en nuestras vidas debe ser llegar a una breve lectura de las Escrituras, una unión más estrecha con Dios, nuestro Padre”, agregó. el rezo del Rosario, entre otros, un plan previo: obsequiar quizás nacido. pueden ayudar. una fotografía en blanco y negro a Como la Virgen María y San 3. Las cuatro velas 2. Ayunar en Adviento un familiar, juguetes de mis hijos José que tenían un corazón lleno La Corona de Adviento tiene tres velas moradas y una rosada, Si bien las cuatro semanas para un sobrino, las chaquetas de de amor puro, los católicos deben que “nos hacen pensar en la obscuridad provocada por el previas a la Navidad tienen un invierno para un hogar de niños confesarse para tener una buena pecado que ciega al hombre y lo aleja de Dios”. carácter “más alegre” se debe huérfanos o hacer galletas para una Navidad. La paja vieja o podrida esperar hasta el cumpleaños de Jesús casa de ancianos. debe ser barrida del corazón. Otras Estas velas representan los cuatro domingos de los que se para celebrar en la cena navideña. 5. Visitar a Jesús veces limpiar el polvo es suficiente, compone el Tiempo de Adviento, las tres primeras de color Este sacrificio, además de tener un La Navidad no es de “Santa pero Jesús siempre quiere encontrar morado se encienden el primer, segundo y cuarto domingo valor espiritual, genera más gusto y Claus”, sino del pequeño niño en una morada donde pueda reposar. de Adviento, mientras que la rosada se enciende el tercer expectativa por la Navidad. el pesebre. Es el Hijo de Dios quien 7. Devoción a María domingo de Adviento, conocido como el domingo Gaudete. 3. Un tiempo de silencio ali-menta verdaderamente, tan “Es especial dirigirnos a nuestra El sacerdote sugiere tener una pequeño y, que sin pretensiones, está Madre, a quien le pedimos su 4. Las manzanas rojas que adornan la corona hora de silencio todos los días presente en todos los tabernáculos. intercesión en nuestras necesidades, En algunos lugares se colocan frutos o manzanas rojas para de Adviento. Sin radio, teléfono, “La Navidad es la celebración para darle gracias por su ‘sí’ en adornar la Corona de Adviento. El Padre Sam señaló que es televisión, ni música de fondo, sino del ‘pan vivo’ que ha llegado del Nazareth, por el cuidado y la crianza una representación de “los frutos del jardín del Edén con utilizar el tiempo para momentos de cielo como nuestro alimento. Belén de Jesús, por su ayuda maternal a Él y Adán y Eva que trajeron el pecado al mundo, pero recibieron oración y reflexión. significa ‘casa del pan’”, explica el P. a nosotros, por su lealtad en la Cruz”. también la promesa del Salvador Universal”. Si se siente inquietud o preocu- Kolfhaus. Desde el obsequio de flores, el rezo Además, indicó que las campanas pueden ser otro adorno, pación, hay que dejar que el Mesías Todos los días se puede visitar del Rosario, oraciones especiales, “que representan la espera activa del cristiano a la venida de entre en el corazón. La paz externa y la iglesia aunque sea solo unos una pequeña peregrinación a una Nuestro Señor”. silencio interior limpia casi automá- minutos. También, asistir a Misa es iglesia, renunciar a malos hábitos ticamente el alma. una forma de devoción. u ofrecer nuestro trabajo por más 5. El listón rojo 4. Obsequiar desde el corazón 6. Confesarse difícil que sea, son gestos que nos Algunas coronas cuentan con un listón rojo que “representa “¿Por qué no dar una alegría a Jesús nace en un establo, en permiten recibir a Jesús, no solo en nuestro amor a Dios y el amor de Dios que nos envuelve”. alguien por cada día de Adviento?”, pobreza y modestia, lejos del la víspera de Navidad. se pregunta el P. Kolfhaus. bullicio de los albergues. En ese El sacerdote sugirió orar por “Cada acción, gesto y símbolo dentro de la Iglesia Católica, Todos los días se puede obse- lugar San José removió las telarañas la maternidad de todas las mujeres tiene su razón de ser, tiene su significado. Saberlo, nos ayuda a quiar un pequeño regalo, carta y la suciedad y Nuestra Señora que esperan o han perdido un hijo vivir mejor lo que celebramos”, concluye el sacerdote. o imagen. Pero es bueno tener preparó un buen lugar para el recién en esos días. 16 AROUND THE CHURCH The Valley Catholic - December 2019 Por primera vez el presidente del Episcopado de EEUU es un mexicano inmigrante El Arzobispo comentó hace poco. Fue un buen amigo”. Arzobispo también que cuenta con “la Sobre el difícil momento por el intercesión de la Virgen de que atraviesa la Iglesia en Estados cuenta con “la Guadalupe” a quien ha confiado Unidos ante los escándalos de siempre su ministerio. abusos sexuales, el Arzobispo dijo El Prelado dijo además que que es importante estar siempre intercesión de en el año 2016 no esperaba ser en comunión con el Papa. elegido vicepresidente de la “La realidad de los obispos la Virgen de USCCB, algo que lo sorprendió. en Estados Unidos es que somos “Una vez que eres elegido todos fieles al Papa Francisco”, Guadalupe” vicepresidente, es muy probable resaltó. “Creo que estamos unidos entonces que te elijan presidente aunque hay algunas percepciones después. Todo el proceso fue una de que no lo estamos. Pero la ACI Prensa sorpresa para mí, pero veo que realidad, lo que veo, es que Dios me pide hacer esto y rezo estamos unidos en nuestro Los obispos de Estados Unidos para que con su gracia pueda ministerio en nuestra Iglesia”, reunidos en asamblea plenaria hacer un buen trabajo”, relató. subrayó. en Baltimore eligieron hoy por Daniel Ibáñez / ACI Prensa Mons. Gomez comentó que Sobre los lugares en los que primera vez a un inmigrante Mons. José Gomez, nuevo presidente del Episcopado de Estados Unidos. “al ser Arzobispo de Los Ángeles ha servido como obispo, Mons. mexicano como nuevo presidente tengo la gran oportunidad de estar Gomez dijo que “San Antonio del Episcopado. con la gente porque hay muchas fue básicamente una comunidad Mons. José Gomez, Arzobispo Gomez en una publicación en su definiría este martes el futuro de personas activas en esta Iglesia, de dos culturas: la hispana y de Los Ángeles, quien servía como cuenta de Facebook. cientos de miles de jóvenes. así como en la conferencia de la anglosajona. Ahora en Los vicepresidente de la Conferencia El Prelado nacido en El Arzobispo también se obispos, por lo que espero tener Ángeles tenemos gente de todo de Obispos Católicos de Estados Monterrey (México) se ha ha destacado en todos sus años la oportunidad de compartir con el mundo y mi ministerio es Unidos (USCCB, por sus siglas destacado en sus años como de servicio episcopal como un todos para estar con la gente y distinto”. en inglés) fue elegido nuevo obispo en Estados Unidos por promotor de la familia y del seguir siendo pastor, que creo es “Una cosa en la que el Papa presidente del organismo para los ser un gran defensor de los derecho a la vida de toda persona, mi vocación”. Francisco insiste mucho es en próximos tres años. inmigrantes, de manera especial ante las amenazas de la ideología El nuevo presidente de la el respeto por las culturas de los “La elección como presidente de las jóvenes generaciones. de género y el aborto. Desde hace USCCB resaltó lo que considera pueblos, en las distintas formas de la Conferencia de Obispos El lunes 11 de noviembre, un varios años publica su columna esencial para la vida de todos de culto. La gente en Perú o Católicos de Estados Unidos es un día antes de su elección, organizó semanal en ACI Prensa. los fieles católicos: “Todo el en México o en Vietnam tiene honor, no solo para mí sino para en una iglesia en Los Ángeles un “Yo solo quería ser sacerdote”, mundo, comenzando con el distintas formas de hacerlo. la Arquidiócesis de Los Ángeles Rosario y una Misa para rezar dijo Mons. Gomez en entrevista Papa y pasando por cada obispo, Entonces la Iglesia en Estados y para cada latino en el país. por los beneficiarios (dreamers) concedida a CNA –agencia en sacerdote y diácono, estamos Unidos está aprendiendo cómo Prometo servir con dedicación y del programa Acción Diferida inglés del Grupo ACI– y “de algún llamados a luchar por la santidad, dirigirse a las necesidades de amor; y siempre tratar de seguir para los Llegados en la Infancia modo Dios quiso que hiciera lo con el llamado universal a esta las personas en todo el mundo”, a Jesucristo y buscar cumplir su (DACA, por su sigla en inglés), que estoy haciendo ahora. Cuenta que nos dejó el Concilio Vaticano explicó. voluntad para la Iglesia aquí en ante la audiencia de la Corte con su gracia para ser fiel a lo que I I ”. El Arzobispo comentó Estados Unidos”, escribió Mons. Suprema en Washington que el Señor me pide hacer ahora”. “El Santo Padre insiste además que, como presidente siempre en que debemos ser del Episcopado estadounidense, discípulos misioneros, y eso espera ayudar a la Iglesia “a significa compartir la fe con todos entender realmente las realidades los demás”, agregó. culturales de la gente en Estados Tras resaltar la importancia Unidos. Creo que es importante WEEKDAYS I WEEKENDS I ONLINE de los movimientos en la Iglesia que estemos abiertos a eso”. actual, el Arzobispo recordó a los “Con los inmigrantes no BACHELOR’S I MASTER’S I DOCTORAL prelados que han dejado huella en hablo de asimilación sino de él en Estados Unidos. integración. Que ellos puedan “He tenido la bendición integrarse a la vida de los Estados de trabajar junto al Arzobispo Unidos y a la vida de la Iglesia”. (Charles) Chaput porque fui su Mons. Gomez también se Obispo Auxiliar, y él ha sido un refirió a la fuente de la unidad en ejemplo maravilloso para mí. la Iglesia para unir la diversidad También he recibido la influencia de culturas. “Obviamente de otros como el Arzobispo tengo las mismas verdades que UR Joseph Fierenze, el Arzobispo todos tenemos, la enseñanza de Patrick Flores, y el Cardenal Jesucristo en la Iglesia Católica”, FAITH William Levada, quien falleció indicó. AFFIRMS

INFO SESSION JAN. 14 I 5:30 P.M.

956-227-0146 1650 S. MAIN LA FERIA, TX 78559

RGV.ollusa.edu December 2019 - The Valley Catholic AROUND THE CHURCH 17 U.S. bishops examine challenges faced by church, society

By CAROL ZIMMERMANN Bob Roller / CNS photo particularly young people, back. Catholic News Service Top Left: Archbishop Jose H. Gomez He presented a three-minute of Los Angeles, president -elect of the video on the issue and spoke of his BALTIMORE — During their U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, concerns and ideas for bringing Nov. 11-13 meeting in Baltimore, responds to a question during a news young people back to church which the U.S. bishops elected new conference at the fall general assembly involved: not dumbing down the officers and discussed challenges of the USCCB in Baltimore Nov. 12, faith and involving young people in the church and the nation. They 2019. Also pictured are: Cardinal in the social justice aspects of the spoke of their renewed efforts to church. Discussion about this from Joseph W. Tobin of Newark, N.J., and help immigrants, youth and young the floor lasted for more than an adults, pregnant women and the Archbishop Leonard P. Blair of Hartford, hour with bishops from across the poor as well their steps to combat Conn. country agreeing that the issue gun violence and racism. is of great concern and sharing On the second day of the Bottom Left: Auxiliary Bishop Mario A. other ideas to bring young people meeting, Nov. 12, the bishops Avilés at the fall general assembly back which primarily involved elected Archbishop Jose H. Gomez catechism but also an increased of Los Angeles to a three-year term Bottom Right: Bishop Daniel E. devotion to Mary. as president of the U.S. Conference Flores listens to a speaker during At the start of their meeting of Catholic Bishops and Archbishop the fall general assembly of the U.S. Nov. 11, the bishops raised pressing Allen H. Vigneron of Detroit as Conference of Catholic Bishops. issues that included the priesthood conference vice president. shortage, gun violence and the Archbishop Gomez, the first need to provide support services Latino to be elected to this role, for pregnant women. was chosen with 176 votes from a Archbishop Christophe slate of 10 nominees. He has been Pierre, papal nuncio to the United USCCB vice president for the States, mentioned some of these past three years and his new role challenges in his opening remarks, begins at the end of the Baltimore meeting coincided with oral administration has moved to close Synod on Young People, the Faith along with the need to welcome gathering. arguments at the Supreme Court the country’s doors to those seeking and Vocational Discernment. migrants and fight racism. He also At the start of the meeting, the over the fate of the Deferred Action refuge, and efforts on the border to Bishop Frank J. Caggiano of urged the bishops not just to focus bishops voted overwhelmingly on for Childhood Arrivals program, help asylum cases. Bridgeport, Connecticut, who had on the challenges before them a revised set of strategic priorities known as DACA and bishops at After the report, Major- been a delegate at the synod, urged but to consider how they could to take them into the next decade. the Baltimore meeting spoke up Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the bishops to do more to support further develop collegiality and The next day, they approved adding in defense of DACA recipients on Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy Catholic teens and young adults collaboration with one another. new materials to complement the floor and in interviews with of Philadelphia said that no and to use the pope’s apostolic In a presentation on gun “Forming Consciences for Faithful Catholic News Service. community, more than Catholics exhortation as their guide. violence, Bishop Frank J. Dewane Citizenship,” their long-standing Bishops also heard a wide- in the U.S., know what it’s like to be The previous day, Auxiliary of Venice, Florida, said Catholic guide to help Catholics form their ranging report on immigration an immigrant in this country. Bishop Robert E. Barron of Los clergy and lay leaders can play a consciences in public life, including Nov. 12, which included updates The bishops’ second day Angeles told the bishops the role in bringing together people voting. The addition included the of policy, how programs to resettle of meetings also included church is losing young people in along the rural-urban divide to statement that called abortion the refugees, including those run by a presentation of the pope’s greater numbers and must face build understanding of the need for preeminent social issue of our time. the Catholic Church, have closed document “Christus Vivit,” which the challenges of how to get the sensible policies that can end the The second day of bishops’ or reduced activity because the was issued following the 2018 religiously unaffiliated, or “nones,” » Please see U.S. bishops p.18 Diocese of Brownsville invites you to Touring Tuesday December 3, 2019

All Catholic schools in the Rio Grande Valley invite you to their ‘Touring Tuesdays’!

Prospective families interested in learning more about our Catholic schools can drop in from 9 -10 a.m. (no appointment needed) on the s Tuesday of every month to see classes in action and learn more about Catholic education.

Come and see the difference where ai and adeis meet in your child’s life!

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL THE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

OFFICE (956) 7845051 18 AROUND THE CHURCH The Valley Catholic - December 2019 U.S. bishops Archbishop Gomez: continued from pg. 17 scourge of gun violence. The bishop, who is chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee The Church belongs to Christ on Domestic Justice and Human Development, outlined the missionary disciples.” USCCB’s long-held stance of New USCCB Archbishop Gomez said the need for “common sense” he is honored and humbled legislation that governs the president wants by the support and confidence availability of guns. But he also indicated by his Nov. 12 election said it was time for people to everyone to as USCCB president. He said the come together so that there is election “is a reflection of the greater understanding of how growing diversity of the Church gun violence affects urban work together in this country, and I also think communities in particular. it is a reflection of what we are He told Catholic News Catholic News Service doing here in Los Angeles.” Service that the USCCB’s work “Certainly, the bishops on the legislative front was LOS ANGELES – Following recognize the presence and important, but that a pastoral his election as president of the US importance of Latinos in the response to gun violence was bishops’ conference, Archbishop Christine Rousselle/CNA Church and in our nation,” he needed. José Gomez of Los Angeles has Archbishop José Gomez of Los Angeles at the USCCB autumn general assembly in added. In a new approach for noted that what is of importance Baltimore, Md., Nov. 12, 2019. The universality of the the bishops’ pro-life efforts, is not his own vision for the Church is seen “in the amazing Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Church, but that of Christ. people who evangelize, disciples man and woman to experience diversity of the local Church here of Kansas City, Kansas, invited “In interviews this week, I who are missionaries … this is the full beauty of the gospel, the in Los Angeles,” the archbishop his fellow bishops to devote am getting asked a lot about my the true nature of the Church. joy and newness of life that we stated. “But more and more, the a year of service to pregnant ‘vision’ for the Church. It is a And our mission is urgent.” have in Jesus Christ. We need face of the Church is changing in women starting next March. good, sincere question. But I’m The archbishop noted that to call them to find their home dioceses across the country.” He said Catholic parishes not sure it is the right question,” our culture is confused “about in the Church, in the saving He said this is beautiful, can be one of the first places a he wrote in a Nov. 19 column at the meaning of human life and mysteries of the sacraments, reflecting that “Christ intends woman facing an unexpected Angelus News. freedom,” and that “there are especially the Eucharist.” his Church to be a home for all or challenging pregnancy can “The Church does not many competing narratives now “So, my ‘vision’ is that we people, God’s family on earth, turn to for assistance rather than belong to any archbishop, even about how to find happiness and work together — priests, deacons, with children of God from think of seeking an abortion the president of the bishops’ what is essential in life.” seminarians, consecrated men every race and culture, every and they could offer a variety of conference. The Church does not The Church, he said, has a and women, lay people in every nationality and language all support services to women who belong to any of us. She belongs duty “to reach out to those who walk of life — all of us seeking to following him and living as may be thinking about whether to Jesus, the Church is his Body are no longer practicing any do God’s will, spreading the good brothers and sisters.” to carry their child to term. and Bride.” religion and also to those who news of Jesus and his salvation “This is the only reason the The three-day meeting Archbishop Gomez said that come to church regularly but and calling everyone to holiness.” Church exists: for this great wrapped up Nov. 13 with a the Church’s mission and identity may not be sure what it means to This is possible only by God’s mission of calling the family of presentation by Bishop Shelton given her by Christ is “to tell the be Catholic, or what the Church grace and “in union with Christ’s God into being, building God’s J. Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux, world about his life and what teaches and why.” vicar on Earth,” he recalled. kingdom on Earth.” Louisiana, chairman of the U.S. he has done for us, and to help Archbishop Gomez called Pope Francis “is leading us Archbishop Gomez bishops’ Ad Hoc Committee them know that Jesus is the way for the Church “to find new and calling all of us in the Church solicited prayers as he takes on Against Racism, who spoke that leads to the truth about their ways to propose Jesus Christ as to rediscover this idea: that God the responsibility of USCCB about the ongoing work of the lives, to the love and happiness the answer to the questions that has created us, and in baptism president, and entrusted his time committee, highlighting the that they long for.” every person holds in their hearts has given us a part to play in in the role “to the maternal care listening sessions that have taken The baptized “are called to be and minds. We need to call every his plan of salvation — to be of Our Lady of Guadalupe.” place around the country. December 2019 - The Valley Catholic DIOCESE 19

Stewardship and Grants at (956) 784- contributed to the conversion of millions 1 5095. in the New World to Christianity through » Monthly calendar ADVENT BEGINS the Church. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops 7-8 has this to say about Advent: “Beginning COLLECTION FOR 12 the Church’s liturgical year, Advent RETIRED RELIGIOUS HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS (from, “ad-venire” in Latin or “to come The special collection for the Retirement (DEACONS) to”) is the season encompassing the Fund for Religious will be Dec. 7-8 for Every second Thursday of each month four Sundays (and weekdays) leading DECEMBERMonth of the Divine Infancy parishes of the Diocese of Brownsville. the Holy Hour will be dedicated for the up to the celebration of Christmas. The intentions of the deacons (permanent Advent season is a time of preparation 7-14 and transitional) of the diocese and that directs our hearts and minds to SPECIAL EVENTS AT OUR 25-26 their families. This month Holy Hour DIOCESAN OFFICES CLOSED Christ’s second coming at the end of LADY OF GUADALUPE PARISH for Vocations (Deacons) is set for 7-8 time and also to the anniversary of the A week of Masses, prayers and special The offices of the Diocese of Brownsville will close early on p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 12 at St. Joseph Dec. 24 and be closed Wednesday, Dec. 25 and Thursday, Lord’s birth on Christmas. The final events celebrating the feast day of Our Adoration Chapel, 723 E. Bowie Ave. in Dec. 26 in observance of Christmas. days of Advent, from December 17 to Lady of Guadalupe at the parish of Our Alamo. December 24, focus particularly on Lady of Guadalupe at 1200 E. Lincoln our preparation for the celebrations St. in Brownsville. Processions between 14 28 of the Nativity of our Lord (Christmas). the Immaculate Conception Cathedral CAMINATA DE LA PAZ NIGHT OF HEALING AND DIVINE MERCY Advent devotions including the Advent and the parish church on Dec. 7 and The Caminata de la Paz, a walk to Msgr. Juan Nicolau, Ph.D., leads the faithful in prayer for wreath, remind us of the meaning of the 12. Misa de la Virgen Peregrina de la promote peace and acceptance, is a Night of Healing and Divine Mercy at 6:30 p.m. at the season.” Familia on Dec. 7. Misa Serenata on set for Saturday, Dec. 14. For more Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle-National Shrine. Dec. 11. Solemn Mass celebrated by information, call Myrta Tijerina at (956) 1 Bishop Daniel E. Flores on Dec. 12. For 638-1555 or the Pharr EDC at (956) MASS FOR CHILDREN more information, call the parish office 402-4332. JAN. 1, 2020 WITH SPECIAL NEEDS at (956) 542-4823. THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD The Mass for children with special needs Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of and their families is scheduled for 1- 2 9 19 God, is a holy day of obligation. p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, at Holy Family FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS (MARRIED LIFE) Church, 2405 E. Tyler in Brownsville. CONCEPTION NEW YEAR’S DAY: DIOCESAN OFFICES CLOSED Every third Thursday of each month The Solemnity of the Immaculate Diocesan offices will be closed in observance of New Year’s the Holy Hour will be dedicated for 5 Conception of the Blessed Virgin Day and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS Mary is usually Dec. 8 and a holy the intentions of the sanctification of (CONSECRATED LIFE) day of obligation, but will not be this the Vocation of Matrimony. Families, Every first Thursday of each month year. According to the USCCB, “Since engaged couples, and couples in the SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS TO: the Holy Hour will be dedicated for an December 8, 2019, is the Second Family Apostolic Movements and in Paul Binz at [email protected] increase in vocations to consecrated Sunday of Advent, the Solemnity of the other marriage ministries are invited to or call (956) 784-5055. life (active and contemplative) and for Immaculate Conception of the Blessed gather and pray for this intention. This the religious sisters and brothers in Virgin Mary is transferred to Monday, month Holy Hour for Vocations (Married our diocese and the success of their December 9, 2019. The obligation Life) is set for 7-8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. missions. This Holy Hour is set for 7-8 to attend Mass, however, does not 19 at St. Joseph Adoration Chapel, 723 »The Holy Father’s Prayer p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 at St. Joseph transfer.” E. Bowie Ave. in Alamo. Adoration Chapel, 723 E. Bowie Ave. in Intentions for Alamo. 9 23 DIOCESAN OFFICES CLOSED VIRGEN DE SAN JUAN DEL December 6 All offices of the Diocese of Brownsville VALLE ROSARY PROCESSION BISHOP’S ANNUAL DINNER will close in observance of the Solemnity The Virgen de San Juan del Valle Rosary The Bishop’s Annual Dinner for 2019 is of the Immaculate Conception. The Future of the set for 6 p.m.-12 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6 at Procession at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 23 at St. Joan of Arc Parish Hall in Weslaco. 12 the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Very Young The annual fundraising event will feature OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE Valle-National Shrine. a St. Nicholas theme and silent and FEAST DAY That every country take live auctions, formal dinner and spirits, Our Lady of Guadalupe’s feast 25 the measures necessary to CHRISTMAS DAY along with musical entertainment by day is Dec. 12. This celebration prioritize the future of Sonny Ozuna. St. Joan of Arc Church commemorates the appearance in The celebration of the Nativity of Our is located at 109 S. Illinois Ave. in 1531 of our Blessed Mother to future Lord, Christmas Day is one of the most the very young, especially Weslaco. To reserve a table, please saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin at important days of the Church’s liturgical those who are suffering. call Jesse Salinas of the Office of the Tepeyac hill in Mexico. This event year. It is a holy day of obligation.

Cristo vendrá de nuevo lo qué nos va a preguntar al Bishop a presentarnos al Padre. fin. Pero la Iglesia vive, reza Alto Luz de Cristo continued from pg. 2 Resucitaremos en nuestra y se entrega para que todos continúa de pág. 14 continúa de pág. 14 propia carne. Y así como sean salvados. Recordamos, somos, carne y alma, pues, que Dios nació de la buscaremos la gracia de recibiremos el juicio del Virgen en Belén para abrir perseguido y eres victima conderla en un tiesto , sino para Cristo en el Evangelio y en los juez justo y compasivo. La este mundo oscuro a la gracia inocente de una autentica ponerla en un candelero a fin sacramentos de la Iglesia. Y posibilidad de perder la de poder ser nosotros mismos injusticia, si te han calumniado, de que alumbre a todos los de esto nos prepara para recibir vida al final, es decir, perder númerados entre la comunión insultado, o discriminado, la casa . Asi, pues, debe brillar al Se-ñor al fin del camino de entrada a la vida eterna de los de los santos en el banquete piensa en Jesucristo, como El su luz ante los hombres , para la vida personal, y al fin de la santos, sí existe. Dios juzga, eterno del Hijo amado. fue perseguido y crucificado el que vean sus buenas obras y historia del mundo. y no es como si no sabemos Amén. viernes Santo y de cómo resucitó glorifiquen al Padre de ustedes el domingo de pascua. que está en los Cielos.” (Biblia Si estas pasando por una Latinoamericana) For video, photo and more situación difícil recuerda que el Que el Espiritu Santo sea momento más oscuro es cuando nuestra guia en esforzarnos a está por llegar el amanecer. ser “la luz del mundo” durante Catholic Diocese of Brownsville ¡Vive un día a la vez!...ignite estas temporadas especiales de the moment!...y recuerda que Dios Adviento y Navidad. te ama y yo también.

ANSWER KEY: 60. b, 61. b, 62. a

»From the Bookshelf »Worth Watching Recommended by Christmas Saint Nicholas The First Christmas The Little SISTER MAUREEN CROSBY, SSD Presence: Twelve and The Mouse and other stories: Drummer Boy Coordinator of the Gifts: of Myra Media Resource Center - Diocese of Length: Hard cover 157 Length: Paperback 120 Format: DVD Format: DVD pages pages Run time: 22 minutes, Run time: 94 minutes Brownsville Publicación: Acta Publication: Paraclete The Chimes 23 min. and A (may be split into Publications 2002 Press Christmas Gift 9 minutes. segments) — Various Authors: Authors: Jay Stoeckl, Total time 52 minutes. Production: OFS Veggietales (2004) For a complete Discover the true meaning of Christmas Clay Classics, Narrated by Christopher Claymation listing of titles, visit through the eyes of twelve contemporary A graphic novel Are the legends of St. Plummer 1. The reverent retelling of the Nativity the Media Resource spiritual writers. In warm and engaging Nicholas true? From his beginnings as a story as Joseph and Mary make a long journey “When it seems you have nothing to Center online at stories from their own lives, they share young priest in Asia Minor in the late third from Nazareth to Bethlehem. 2. Charles bring…What gift can you give the King? www.cdob.org/media- the simple truths they have come to know century until just before his death, you will Dickens tale about Toby Veck, a poor porter Ages 3-7 and for the young at heart. resource-center or call about the greatest of all mysteries, the see him learn and practice the generosity who takes special joy at the sounds of the presence of the divine spirit in the material that led to him becoming the father of bells. 2. Taken from Peter, Paul & Mary ballad Sister Crosby at world. High School/Adults Christmas giving. Children Ages 6-12. “Christmas Dinner.” All Ages. (956) 784-5041. 20 DIOCESE The Valley Catholic - December 2019 Our Catholic Family Restoring the damaged, broken

to my Catholic faith. El arte es makes one think of the old Local artist oración,” she said. “For me art is European churches.” a prayer, and each piece I work The five-month project sought with requires a lot of care. I have to restore the original beauty helps give new asked God that he be the one who of the first church in San Juan. guides the restoration.” “The idea,” said Father Garcia, life to religious “The religious works in our “was to bring back what was lost churches help elevate us; they throughout the years. The people statues invite us to piety, to prayer,” she marveled at the renovation and said. are very proud of the altar after When working on the they themselves worked to build By BRENDA NETTLES RIOJAS restoration project in San Benito it .” The Valley Catholic for a month, she observed people The community also built a come daily to pray. One police freestanding altar from two side LOPEZVILLE — An angel officer came every day at noon altars, in which they entombed with broken wings. The Baby and prayed before a statue of Our a relic of Blessed Miguel Pro that Jesus with a crushed finger. The Blessed Mother Mary. they received from Mexico City. Blessed Mother’s gown dirty and “They help us catechize our While Ollervides and her cracking. These are some of the faith, our traditions,” Ollervides husband own their own business, images that prompted a local said. which includes professional designer to take a new direction “We should appreciate the design for homes and businesses, with her talents. artwork in our churches, and take she said she considers her work of Growing up in Mexico, care them, she said, “so that our preserving and restoring religious restoration artist Sonia Ollervides Church can continue alive with art as a way of sharing the gifts of McAllen said she was always our traditions, so that our faith the Lord has given her. drawn to the beautiful images can be visible in the traditions The statues, she said, are like a in the churches. A few years of our faith, and that the house special photo of a son or daughter ago, she noticed some damaged of the Lord is always beautiful, who is away from home. Just statues in some of the churches beautiful as he is.” (“Que nuestra as you would care for a photo in the Rio Grande Valley; some fe se vea en la tradición de nuestra of a loved one and pull it out to were missing a hand, or chipped fe y que la casa de Dios siempre sea think of them, it is the same with pieces. “I was sad to see them in bella.”) the statues and artwork in our such a condition,” she said. Her most recent project churches. Ollervides was moved to use includes the renovation of the “Our faith is founded on her art skills to help restore them. altar at Immaculate Conception something so beautiful that we Her first project took her to San Mission in Lopezville. cannot completely see with our Benito where Father Luis Tinajero Father Derlis Garcia said own eyes, and the images help entrusted her with repairing Ollervides’ “gold leaf and marble us imagine a little of that beauty, Courtesy Photos the statue of St. Benedict at the finish truly helped bring up the elevate us in piety to communicate Sonia Ollervides of McAllen restores religious statues at local parishes. Photos below namesake parish. nobility of the altar. It made it with the Virgin Mary, to show some of her work in progress and the finished pieces. “For me, restoring a statue stand out in such a way that is communicate with the saints, to to its original beauty is a service, really pleasing to the eye and ask for their intercession.” a service to my Church and