Newsmagazine

Bringing the Good News to the Diocese of Fort Worth Vol. 26 No. 17 Christmas Issue / January 2011

Christmas Approaches Rejoice!

Mary holds the Child Jesus in “Virgin of the Lilies” by French painter William-Adolphe Bouguereau. Th e Christmas season begins with the Dec. 24 evening vigil commemorating the birth of Christ and ends with the feast of the Baptism of the Lord Jan. 9. (CNS photo/Jerry L. Th ompson, Art Resource) PAGE 2 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE ShepherdOur Speaks Th e peace and joy of the Incarnation of Christ be with you Dear Brothers and is truly the Th eotokos, or “God bearer.” Th is legalized abortion in the United States. Th is feast is always a reminder to us that all that anniversary, as sad and tragic as it is, serves Sisters in Christ, we believe about Mary has everything to do for us as a reminder that we are all called, by with Christ and that Mary is always pointing virtue of our Baptism, to promote, witness, or the Son of us to and leading us into a deeper union with and defend the culture of life. One of the her Son. great events that I am able to participate “FGod became Another great feast during the in each year is traveling to Washington, Christmas season is the feast of the Epiphany D.C., with a great number of youth and man so that man could which has been traditionally celebrated others from the diocese for the March for on Jan. 6 or 12 days after Christmas, Life. Th e march is a great opportunity to become like God.” but recently has been transferred to the witness to the culture of life and to call for second Sunday after Christmas. Th e feast the end of legalized abortion. I am especially Th ese magnifi cent words of St. Athanasius of the Epiphany is one of the most ancient grateful for the Youth for Life of the diocesan from his great work On the Incarnation Christian feasts, and the word Epiphany Catholics Respect Life Offi ce for organizing so powerfully sum up the meaning of from the Greek means “to reveal” because a large group of youth and young adults Christmas and the celebration of the the feast is centered on God being revealed to attend the march. Each year I am truly Incarnation of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the Son to man in Christ. Th e Epiphany was moved by the overwhelming support for of the eternal Father, becomes like us in all fi rst celebrated in the East and originally life and the witness of so many Catholics, things but sin so that the glory of man as celebrated four “epiphanies “ or revealing especially young people, from around the created in the image and likeness of God Bishop Kevin Vann events in the life of Christ: the Baptism country, who come in a spirit of communio could once again be fully revealed. Th e of Jesus, the fi rst miracle of Christ at the and fi ll the Basilica Shrine of the Immaculate Incarnation of Christ, the tiny baby born in himself with each man. He worked with Wedding Feast of Cana, the Nativity of Conception in Washington and pray for the a stable in Bethlehem, truly and dramatically human hands, he thought with a human Christ, and the visit of the Magi. All of end of abortion and other crimes against changes the course of human history, for mind. He acted with a human will, and these events in some way reveal Christ’s human life. I will also be celebrating our God was now with man, and never again will with a human heart he loved. Born of the divinity, that he is truly the Son of God. It annual Respect Life Mass at St. Patrick’s humanity be separated from God. Virgin Mary, he has truly been made one is important to note that the Epiphany was Cathedral Friday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. I strongly Th e Incarnation of Christ at Christmas of us, like to us in all things except sin. the original celebration of Christmas or the encourage that people from all across our reveals two things. First, it reveals the great birth of Christ. Eventually in the West, the diocese gather in a spirit of communion as a love and mercy of the Father who sends — Dogmatic Constitution on the Church celebration of the Nativity was separated local Church to pray for the end of abortion his only Son to fully reveal Himself and in the Modern World, Gaudium et Spes, to Christmas on Dec. 25, but the feast of and other attacks against innocent human to accomplish his loving plan of salvation 22) the Epiphany remained as the celebration life and ask for the grace of Christ to witness announced immediately following the fi rst of the other three events as the end of the to and bring about a true culture of life in sin of Adam and Eve. Th e Incarnation It is also important to remember that Christmas Season. As time continued on, all of the areas of our society and culture in reveals a love that is greater than sin, a love we don’t just celebrate the Incarnation the other feasts were gradually separated, which we have infl uence. May we answer that seeks and fi nds those who are lost. The only on Christmas Day, but that the and today we celebrate the Baptism of the the urgent appeal of Pope John Paul II in Incarnation also reveals the great dignity Church celebrates the Incarnation of Christ Lord the Sunday after the Epiphany, and the his great encyclical Th e Gospel of Life to “in of each and every human person; that God throughout the Christmas Season which Wedding Feast of Cana is celebrated the next the name of God: respect, protect, love, and Himself would deign to become like us in extends from Christmas Day through the Sunday. serve life, every human life.” order to fully restore our great dignity as sons solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord on Jan. Th e Epiphany for us today is the I would like to wish each and every and daughters of God. In fact, as Vatican II 9. Th is liturgical season off ers many other celebration of the visit of the Magi from the one of you and your families a very blessed teaches us, Jesus, through the Incarnation, feasts and celebrations that even more fully East who, following the star of Bethlehem, Christmas, and I pray that the peace and joy unites himself with each and every person reveal the mystery of the Incarnation. beheld the Christ-child and his glory. Th e of the Incarnation of Christ will be with you and off ers the gift of salvation: One of the great feasts that falls in Epiphany is when Christ is revealed to the as we celebrate the Christmas Season. the Christmas Season is the feast of Mary, world as the Messiah, the Son of God. In Th e truth is that only in the mystery of Mother of God that is celebrated on Jan. many parts of the world, such as Europe, the Incarnate Word does the mystery of 1. Th is feast speaks directly to the truth the Epiphany is considered to be at least as man take on light. For Adam, the fi rst and reality of the Incarnation, that the one important as Christmas and is sometimes man, was a type of him who was to come person, Jesus Christ is both fully human and called “Little Christmas,” and in many (Romans 5:14), Christ the Lord. Christ the fully divine without confusion or division. cultures, following the example of the Magi new Adam, in the very revelation of the In other words, since Jesus is really and truly off ering their gifts to Christ, is when the +Bishop Kevin W. Vann. JCD, DD mystery of the Father and of his love, fully God, the second Person of the Trinity made exchange of “Christmas” gifts takes place. Diocese of Fort Worth reveals man to himself and brings to light fl esh, then Mary as the Mother of Jesus is Th e celebration of the Incarnation of his most high calling. He who is “the image truly the Mother of God. In fact, this title of Christ at Christmas is also a reminder that of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), is Mary as Mother of God was defi ned at the Christ came to us as an infant, and that at himself the perfect man who has restored Council of Ephesus in 431 A.D. in response the Annunciation he was conceived in Mary’s in the children of Adam that likeness to to the Nestorian heresy which separated womb by the Holy Spirit. Jesus, through God which had been disfi gured ever since Jesus’ humanity and divinity and taught the Incarnation, redeemed human nature the fi rst sin. Human nature, by the very that Jesus was a man in whom God dwelt, from the moment of conception through fact that it was assumed, not absorbed, in but that he was not fully God. Th e Council death. As we move from Christmas to the him, has been raised in us also to a dignity of Ephesus defi ned that Jesus’ divine and New Year, it is important to remember that beyond compare. For, by his Incarnation, human natures are fully united in the one on Jan. 22 we recall the anniversary of the he, the son of God, in a certain way united person Jesus Christ and that therefore Mary Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that CONTENTS North January/Christmas 2010/2011 Texas Features Departments catholic Th e new Roman Missal will be 4-5 Briefl y PUBLISHER: Bishop Kevin W. Vann introduced next Advent 7 DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS: Pat Svacina By Michele Baker 10-11 Voices EDITOR: Jeff Hensley ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Tony Gutiérrez Fostering Christian unity without ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Judy Russeau giving up Catholic identity 12 Catechesis 10 WEB DESIGNER: Chris Kastner By David Mills & Denise Bossert CIRCULATION: Rita Garber 13 Vocations John Gill is Meals on Wheels' REGULAR COLUMNISTS: 18 volunteer of the year — at 95 14 Features Jean Denton By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen Kathy Cribari Hamer Jeff Hedglen Here's the fi nal group of priests 20-21 Word to Life Jeff Hensley David Mills 22 refl ecting on their priesthood Mary Regina Morrell By Jenara Kocks Burgess 26-28 Spanish Sharon K. Perkins Lucas Pollice Father John Rausch Father Kyle Walterscheid

Contributors: Can we say Merry Christmas yet? Michele Baker t's nearly Christmas Eve. And so, we've devoted a lot of the content of this volunteer of the year for Meals on Wheels. John, a parishioner of St.John the Jenara Kocks Burgess issue to the birth of Jesus and the audacious reality of the Incarnation. The Apostle Parish in North Richland Hills, coordinates the Meals on Wheels distribu- John English very idea that God would become man, would share our human nature tion center there (page 18). Juan Guajardo with us, becoming fully God and fully human, represents such a loving act Kathy Cribari Hamer I Michele Baker does a really fi ne job of telling us some of the details about the Joan Kurkowski-Gillen that we cannot fully comprehend it. Our concepts of love, no matter how well developed, cannot, without God's example, imagine such a degree of self-giving. introduction of the new Roman Missal that will be in use beginning next Advent. Donna Ryckaert Each time at Mass when the bread and wine are lifted to become the Body and The hope is that in hewing more to the original language of the liturgy, we will Kristen Zwiesche Blood of our Lord, we are amazed. Without the humbling act of birth in a stable, all grow in our faith and be better able to share our faith with others (page 7). life as a man, death in our place, we would not share the possibility of taking on And Bishop Vann will be sharing with our Jewish friends at Congregation Aha- Editorial Offi ce: 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, Texas God's nature, ultimately joining Him in heaven. 76108, (817) 560-3300; FAX (817) 244-8839. vath Shalom on Nostra Aetate January 15 at 1 p.m. Nostra Aetate is the Vatican Circulation Offi ce: Rita Garber, 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, Texas 76108, (817) 560-3300. We hope the season of Christmas renews some of that sense of awe and wonder II document that revolutionized Catholicism's relationship with the Jewish faith NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC (USPS 751-370) (ISSN 0899-7020) is published monthly, by the Most Rev. Kevin W. Vann, Bishop of as we place ourselves at the side of the manger. and other religions. Catholics are invited to the inter-faith event. You can read the Diocese of Fort Worth, 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, Associate Editor Tony Gutierrez's informative article on that on page 8. Texas. For those who are not registered parishioners in the Diocese of Fort Worth, subscription rates are $20 for one year, $40 You won't want to miss John Gill's humility and attitude of service portrayed Jeff Hensley for two years, $60 for three years. Periodical postage paid at Fort Worth, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Texas so well by Joan Kurkowski-Gillen, as she captures a bit of John's story. National Editor Catholic, 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, Texas 76108. Deadline for information for the North Texas Catholic is noon of the Wednesday two weeks before the paper is published. The NTC is published the third Friday of each month with the date of the following month as the date of issue. To access current news and information, fi nd us at www.fwdioc. A Nativity scene is pictured at the Vatican Museums. This scene was org/ntc The appearance of advertising in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services, or products. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising in all media. made by craftsmen of Guanajuato, Mexico, and is one of several creches

at the Vatican. The state of Guanajuato is one the fi rst areas of Spanish

colonial settlement in Mexico, dating from around 1520. The area is

known for its craftsmanship and its rich silver and other mineral deposits.

(CNS photo/Paul Haring) PAGE 4 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE

Lack of religious since it represents an insult to God and bring them publicly to justice. considered as something analogous to freedom harms to human dignity.” “We need deeds and not just ... a Nobel Prize for theology.” “Furthermore, it is a threat to promises, that our Christian faithful The prizes and the conferences security, pope says in security and peace, and an obstacle feel really safe in their churches, the foundation hopes to host should peace message to the achievement of authentic and houses, and places of work. They also focus, like the pope’s work, “on helping VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Infringements integral human development,” he said. Briefly need that the government ensure the truth, meaning, and beauty of on the freedom of religion threaten The pope also warned against equality in the work places, since Christianity in relation to today’s peace and security worldwide as well “more sophisticated forms of hostility the Christians fear vengeance and culture and society emerge,” Cardinal as stifle authentic human growth and to religion” which, in Western State, National, Church harassment from many fundamentalist Ruini said. development, Pope Benedict XVI said. countries, is often expressed by a and self-proclaimed leaders in parts The activities of the Vatican- “Religious freedom is an authentic denial of its Christian roots and the of the city as well in the civil and based foundation will be coordinated weapon of peace,” which fosters the rejection of religious symbols, “which administrative areas,” he said. with those of a Germany-based human qualities and potentials that reflect the identity and the culture of Fifty-eight people died in the foundation honoring the pope. The “can change the world and make it the majority of citizens.” attack on the Syrian Catholic Church in Joseph Ratzinger-Papst Benedikt XVI better,” the pope said in his message Baghdad Oct. 31 after military officials Stiftung was established in 2007 by a for World Peace Day, Jan. 1, 2011. Trappist monks in tried to end a terrorist siege of the group of his former students. Pope Benedict’s message, which Iowa close chapter on church. Cardinal Ruini and other members was delivered to world leaders by In an e-mail to Catholic News of the scientific committee will draw Vatican ambassadors, was released at farming as means of Service, the patriarch said the up the specific requirements for the Vatican Dec. 16. The message was income December memorial Mass was “a time submissions for the Ratzinger Prizes translated into Arabic as well as several PEOSTA, Iowa (CNS) — Farmers from of grace, sorrow, and hope.” and will choose the winners, he said. European languages, including Russian. miles around gathered at the New He said he experienced “profound The other members of the committee The message, titled “Religious Melleray Abbey farm south of Dubuque consolation to witness the faith of include two former secretaries of the Freedom, the Path to Peace,” made Nov. 20 for a historic auction that thousands of Iraqi Christians who Congregation for the Doctrine of the special mention of the “theater of marked the end of farming as a means challenged threats and overcame fear Faith: Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Vatican violence and strife” in Iraq and the of support for the Trappist community. (CNS photos/PAUL HARING) in order to prove their commitment secretary of state, and Angelo Amato, deadly attack on a Syrian Catholic On the cold sunny morning, With the induction of Cardinals Raymond Burke, left, and Donald Wuerl into the and love for the ultimate sacrifice of prefect of the Congregation for Saints’ church in Baghdad Oct. 31. potential buyers climbed in the cab of College of Cardinals, the United States has 18 cardinals, 13 of whom are under the their brothers and sisters, including Causes. Archbishop Luis Ladaria, The pope said it is in the context the tractors and examined the well- age of 80. Only Italy has more cardinals. With 10 new cardinals, Italy has a total of their two young priests ... who gave current secretary of the doctrinal of widespread violence, persecution, maintained equipment that worked the 48 members of the college, 25 of whom are under 80. themselves courageously as first congregation, and Archbishop intolerance, and discrimination against 2,000 acres of cropland owned by the martyrs to be savagely slaughtered Jean-Louis Brugues, secretary of the people of faith that he decided to monastery. during Sunday Mass.” Congregation for Catholic Education, dedicate the peace day message to the Abbot Brendan Freeman, who Pope creates new The Mass, the patriarch told CNS, also are committee members. fundamental importance of religious spoke to the crowd before the auction, cardinals, telling them was attended by many prominent freedom as the basis for the well-being said it was a “bittersweet day for us, as Shiite Muslim leaders and government Pope says nuclear and growth of individuals and whole all through our history we have been representatives, four ambassadors weapons remain societies. farmers,” summarizing the 160-year authority means service to Iraq, as well as church officials, “At present, Christians are the tradition that was coming to an end. including Archbishop Giorgio Lingua, threat to humanity VATICAN CITY (CNS) Pope Benedict religious group which suffers most Factors in the decision included the — a “titular church” in Rome, making apostolic nuncio to Iraq and Jordan. VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope XVI created 24 new cardinals, including from persecution on account of its costs involved in farming, low prices them members of the Rome diocesan Patriarch Younan said he Benedict XVI said nuclear weapons two from the United States, and called faith,” citing specifically the Christian paid for crops, and the fact the abbey clergy, which is what the church’s reminded U.S. Ambassador to Iraq remain a threat to humanity, and he them to be strong in spreading and communities in Asia, Africa, the Middle has fewer members and those who do first cardinals were. Cardinal Burke’s James Jeffrey of what Chicago urged steps to curb their proliferation. defending the faith and promoting East, and “especially in the Holy Land,” live there are getting older. titular church is St. Agatha of the Cardinal Francis E. George, as Addressing Japan’s new peace and tranquility within the said the pope. The first monks came to Dubuque Goths; Cardinal Wuerl’s is St. Peter in outgoing president of the U.S. bishops’ ambassador to the Vatican Nov. 27, church. During a presentation of the from Ireland at the invitation of Chains, the church famous for hosting conference, recently wrote to President the pope recalled that this year marks Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl of message to the press, Msgr. Anthony Bishop Mathias Loras and established Michelangelo’s statue of Moses. Barack Obama. the 65th anniversary of the atomic Washington and Cardinal Raymond L. Frontiero, an official at the Pontifical New Melleray Abbey in 1849. They At the end of the service, the In a Nov. 9 letter, the cardinal bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Burke, prefect of the Vatican’s supreme Council for Justice and Peace, said supported themselves through the sale College of Cardinals numbered a record urged the U.S. government to He said the “horror” of the bombings court, joined other new cardinals that of all the people “who are of farm animals and crops raised on 203 members, with 121 cardinals “redouble its efforts to assist Iraqis” becomes more poignant every year. from 13 countries Nov. 20 in formally discriminated against, hurt, killed, or their acreage, which includes 600 acres under the age of 80 and eligible to vote in providing safety for its citizens, “This tragedy strongly reminds professing their Catholic faith and persecuted for religious reasons, 75 of prairie given to them by Bishop in a conclave to elect a new pope. With especially religious minorities. us how necessary it is to persevere in percent worldwide are Christian.” The Loras and 600 acres they bought for fidelity to the pope. the induction of Cardinals Wuerl and the efforts toward nonproliferation statistic came from a spokesperson $1.25 an acre. Pope Benedict concelebrated Burke into the College of Cardinals, the of nuclear weapons and toward from The Pew Forum on Religion Abbot Freeman told how the early Mass Nov. 21 with the new cardinals United States has 18 cardinals, 13 of Vatican-based disarmament,” he said. and Public Life during a conference monks sold hogs to William “Hog” and gave each of them a cardinal’s whom are under the age of 80. foundation to “Nuclear weapons remain a source hosted by the European Parliament in Ryan” in nearby Galena, Ill., who ring, telling them it was a sign “of your Only Italy has more cardinals. promote study of of great worry. Their possession and nuptial pact with the church.” With 10 new cardinals, Italy has a total November. sold pork to the Union Army during pope’s theology the risk of their eventual use generate “A conservative estimate of the the Civil War, and of the most recent Rather than precious gems, the of 48 members of the college, 25 of tension and mistrust in numerous VATICAN CITY (CNS) — With the number of Christians killed for their gold rings feature a crucifix, which, whom are under 80. regions of the world,” he said. efforts in organic farming and raising pope’s agreement and funding, the faith each year is somewhere around “for the same reason your clothes Pope Benedict told the new He said the experience in Japan organic Angus beef. But eventually the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican 150,000,” Msgr. Frontiero said quoting allude to blood, is a symbol of life cardinals they must recognize that should remind the world of the need to economy took its toll. “Prices went Foundation has been established to an article published Dec. 4 by the and love” as demonstrated by Christ’s becoming “unique and precious” find political solutions to international way down,” the abbot continued, “and promote theological studies on his online news site of the Toronto Star ultimate sacrifice for the salvation of collaborators in the papal mission to problems, and of the need to halt we don’t have the monks to do the writings and to reward promising daily newspaper. all, the pope said. serve the church is not an honor they the spread of nuclear weapons. fieldwork anymore.” scholars. “Virtually every human rights During the consistory Nov. 20, can take credit for, but is a vocation to That’s something the international Msgr. Giuseppe Antonio Scotti, group and Western government the pope assigned the new cardinals which they are called. community should promote by Syrian patriarch urges president of the foundation, said it agency that monitors the plight of patiently establishing economic and was established with just over $3.1 Christians worldwide arrives at more Iraqi government political sanctions against the use of million from the pope. The money or less the same conclusion: Between to ensure safety of force, he said. represents part of the royalties from 200 million and 230 million of them venerated the “46 new martyrs” of the The patriarch, who flew from The pope also suggested that citizens the publication of his books; the rest face daily threats of murder, beating, Syrian Catholic Church, the patriarch Beirut for the Mass, reminded those nations reallocate a part of their BEIRUT (CNS) — Syrian Catholic of his royalty income goes to charity, imprisonment and torture, and a said the presence of government present of the pleas of all Christians normal military spending toward Patriarch Ignatius Joseph III Younan Msgr. Scotti told reporters Nov. 26. further 350 to 400 million encounter officials at the liturgy “helped to in Iraq and abroad, “that it is the projects of economic and social called on the Iraqi government to Cardinal Camillo Ruini, retired discrimination in areas such as jobs inspire some trust and feelings of some responsibility of the Iraqi government development, education, and health ensure the safety of all Iraqi citizens, papal vicar of Rome and president and housing,” the monsignor quoted protection” for the faithful, despite a to carry out proper and thorough care. especially Christians, “who are of the new foundation’s scientific from the news article. prevailing mood of being anxious for investigations to uncover the terrorist “That would undoubtedly defenseless, honest, and peaceful committee, said he hoped that In his message, the pope said the the future “since the cover-up of the groups who did plan and finance the contribute to stability inside countries people.” someday the “Ratzinger Prizes” in fact that Christians must live in fear terror targeting Iraqi Christians is still carnage, of whatever religious or and between peoples,” he said. In his homily at a Dec. 10 sacred Scripture, patristics, and because of their faith “is unacceptable, going on after such a period of time.” political allegiance they may be, and to memorial Mass in Baghdad that fundamental theology “would be NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 5

Bishop Vann to celebrate annual Respect Life When the St. Matthew Parish organized Our Lady of Guadalupe procession made Mass, Jan. 21; all invited to take part in Dallas its way over the streets of Arlington Rosary, Mass, and ecumenical march, Jan. 22 Dec. 5, there were many portrayals of The Diocese of Fort Worth will Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe with the Virgin of Guadalupe. These two , Briefly one live and one two-dimensional were commemorate the 38th anniversary diocesan clergy. among the brightest. See story at of Roe v. Wade, the infamous Supreme After the Mass, at noon, foot of page Court decision legalizing abortion participants will join pro-life Locally Signifi cant Events (Photo by Kathy Cribari Hamer) on demand on Jan. 22, 1973, leading supporters of other faiths for the to the death of more than 50 million Ecumenical Dallas March for Life Bishop Vann blesses and rededicates St. Andrew Parish hall, as its phase two is completed unborn children, with several memorial Cathedral Plaza to the Earle Cabell events. Federal Courthouse, where Roe v. Wade By Kathy Cribari Hamer Bishop Kevin Vann will celebrate was originally filed. The march will Correspondent the annual Respect Life Mass at 7 p.m. include a rally with prayers for the In the presence of many people Friday, Jan. 21, at St. Patrick Cathedral. overturning of Roe v. Wade, and for who had witnessed the planning For more information about the Mass, legal protection to be restored to the and construction of the original St. contact Chanacee Ruth-Killgore, unborn. Andrew’s Parish hall, a decade- diocesan director of the Catholics “What started in Dallas must end and-a-half ago, Bishop Kevin Vann Respect Life Office, at (817) 560-2452, in Dallas,” say event organizers in a blessed and rededicated phase two, ext. 257, or by e-mail at cruth- flyer. completing what was, according to the [email protected]. The Dallas March for Life had pastor, the parish’s dream. Saturday, Jan. 22, the Fort Worth more than 6,000 participants in 2010, “It was over 15 years ago that and Dallas dioceses are co-sponsoring and organizers hope to have more this building was first put up,” Father several events in Dallas, where the than 10,000 participants this year to Tom Stabile, TOR, said in his remarks landmark case was first filed in 1970. join in praying for an end to abortion at the dedication. “The first floor was Activities will begin with the 2011 in the North Texas region and in the left empty, the elevator shaft back Roe Memorial Rosary at the Routh country, and to publicly witness for a there without an elevator in it, and the Street abortion center, 4321 N. Central Culture of Life. For more information upstairs just a shell. Expy. in Dallas at 7:45 a.m. about the march, contact the Catholic “But it was even long before that, At 10 a.m., Bishop Vann and Pro-Life Committee of the Diocese that the idea of a parish hall was this Bishop Kevin Farrell of the Diocese of of Dallas at (972) 267-LIFE (5433), or parish’s life and dream, and lots of Dallas will concelebrate the bilingual visit the committee’s website at www. different plans were put together, for a gathering room and four more contributed,” Peninger said, “because the capstone. Through him the whole Roe Memorial Mass at the Cathedral prolifedallas.org. different proposals. “Finally this building happened,” generous meeting areas. so much of the money came from the structure is held together and grows Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, the pastor told the happy crowd who “It took a long time to decide general offertory collections.” into a temple sacred in the Lord….” what the completed project would be,” During the rededication, the “The people think the building is celebrating 125 years serving in the U.S, have a had gathered to celebrate the long- awaited completion, “two full floors according to Carol Peninger, business Bishop prayed, sprinkled the rooms, a welcoming, warm place,” Peninger long history of service in Diocese of Fort Worth and lots of use!” and facilities manager. The first and asked God’s blessing on “all that said. “They are really happy, and lining The Sisters of the Holy Family of Hospital in Vernon was donated to the The current hall, attached to the estimate, which was more than two will happen in this place. up to use it.” Nazareth (CSFN) serving in Texas CSFNs. That hospital closed in 1965. north side of the church building, was million dollars, was modified, after “We take this time to give thanks Bishop Vann called the celebrated the anniversary of their 125 In 1935, the Sisters of the Holy originally built in place of what was discussion with the finance council. to God,” the bishop said, “who made rededication weekend “providential,” years of service to children and families Family of Nazareth’s Bethania Hospital the parish rectory. After its first phase, Eventually, through the course of the it possible.” because it was the weekend of in the U.S. — and their history of in Wichita Falls was dedicated and the facility housed a large gathering construction, more contributions came A reading from St. Paul’s letter Thanksgiving and the beginning of service in the Southwestern US — with blessed. Bethania merged with Wichita place, full kitchen, four nursery in, and the building project expanded, to the Ephesians, reminded the Advent. “Advent is always a season of a special Mass celebrated by Dallas General Hospital in 1998, becoming facilities, and three meeting rooms. and was completed without acquiring gathering that the hall was “built upon hope,” he said, “so we give thanks for Bishop Kevin Farrell Dec. 11 at Holy part of United Regional Health Care, The newly doubled hall has an any debt. the foundation of the apostles and what has been, and we’re hopeful for Family of Nazareth Church, in Irving. and in 2006, the sisters closed the additional full second floor, with “Everyone can feel like they prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as what will be.” The CSFNs’ U.S. celebration convent. continues for a year, culminating in From 1963 to 1979, the sisters the grand closing Mass and reception taught at St. Andrew Inter-Parochial St. Matthew Parish Our Lady of Guadalupe procession includes 500, treks three July 4, 2011, in Chicago, where the School in Fort Worth. The school was miles through Arlington from starting point at Vietnamese Martyrs Church headquarters of the order in the United and is on the grounds of St. Andrew States is located. Parish in Southwest Fort Worth, but By Kathy Cribari Hamer Our Lady of Guadalupe. the size of this year’s group,” according Their float, with a large According to information provided was at that time the parish school for Correspondent Also known by the titles Mother to Alma Vazquez, St. Matthew’s Parish contingent of people wearing red by the Sisters of the Holy Family both St. Andrew and St. Bartholomew Sixty-four horses, two ponies, a of the Americas and Patroness of the secretary, who oversaw logistical costumes, stands out at the beginning of Nazareth, the sisters have had a parishes in Fort Worth. The convent donkey, and 500 people processed Americas, Our Lady of Guadalupe elements of the Dec. 5 procession, of the huge parade that winds presence in the Diocese of Fort Worth was connected to the St. Andrew from Arlington’s Vietnamese Martyrs brings out intense devotion from those “One of the officers said, ‘It looks like through neighborhoods, crossing since at least 1931, when they arrived School building. Church to St. Matthew Parish, Dec. who follow her not only as the Blessed you put two years together.’” busy intersections protected by the in Mineral Wells to staff Nazareth In 2003, a community of sisters 5. It was about a three-mile walk, Mother, who appeared to Juan Diego, St. Matthew Parish has sponsored Arlington police. Hospital until 1968, with the sisters began family ministry at St. Rita Parish temperatures were in the 40s, and all a peasant in Mexico, but as their own a pilgrimage for Our Lady of Guadalupe St. Matthew Parish is faithful to withdrawing in 1971. in East Fort Worth, where a community went forward toward the same goal: to mother. yearly during the past decade, and the Guadalupe celebration because of In 1937, the Christ the King still resides. praise their mother, the Mother of God, “Police officers were shocked by even in the early 1980s, Vazquez said, the active Hispanic influence in the the parish hosted a simple gathering parish. According to Vazquez about 85 for a small Mass. percent of the parish’s 7,000 families Schools Superintendent Miller and Cassata Principal Martin speak at NCEA leadership conference “Since then it has become are Hispanic. massive,” she said, with many When the parade ended up St Cassata High School, the diocese’s a handful of speakers selected from of Cassata’s success with transforming traditional education, and many are participants coming from families who Matthew’s, parishioners provided private, fully-accredited outreach Catholic schools across the nation to struggling youth into high school not attending school when they enroll have been walking with the parish delicacies, including tamales, menudo, school was honored recently as Nancy present on the topic “Leading Mission- graduates. at Cassata. since the beginning, some of them hot chocolate, and sweet breads. The Martin, principal of Cassata High Driven Schools”. Cassata has been providing young Cassata has a demonstrated legacy learning to provide native dance, with native dance and music continue, School, and Don Miller, superintendent For the past five years, the Loyola people with another chance at success of success at transforming struggling the matachines. children play, and families socialize. of schools for the Diocese of Fort University Chicago Center for Catholic since 1975. Many of Cassata’s students youth into high school graduates, the Matachines, in their beaded But it is faith and devotion Worth, were invited to present “The School Effectiveness and the NCEA face significant barriers to obtaining release continues. Of the 67 graduates Indian attire, with drums that sustains the event, Vazquez Mission-Driven Story of Cassata High have co-sponsored a national an education — for the 2009-2010 from the 2009-2010 school year, 65 accompanying them, lead the said, noting that two years ago, in School” at the National Catholic instructional leadership conference school year, 34 percent of graduates are enrolled in a two- or four-year procession, said Marina Gonzalez, who pouring rain, people still walked the Educational Association’s (NCEA) they describe as “designed to ‘push were the first in their family to earn colleges, trade schools, or enlisted in chaired the event this year, as she has procession. She quoted Father Hector Annual Leadership Conference on the envelope’ regarding best practices a high school diploma; 30 percent of the military. for the previous four. They are part Medina, St. Matthew pastor: “He said the campus of Loyola University, in leading excellent Catholic schools.” students are teen parents; and several For further information contact Susan of the Guadalupanas, an organization it is in the faith of these people. They Chicago. According to a press release Miller and Martin were chosen, the are over the age of 21. Most of the Flood, president of Cassata High within the parish, who play a big part have a loyalty to Our Lady, and are from Cassata, the two were among press release goes on to say, because students have had difficulty with School, at (817) 926-1745. in the overall celebration. grateful for what she has provided.” PAGE 6 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 State Archbishop Garcia-Siller installed as sixth archbishop of San Antonio By Jordan McMorrough Editor, Today's Catholic Newspaper for the Archdiocese of San Antonio Catholic News Service rging Catholics to unite against the U“ignorance, fear, and insecurity” that “feed racism and hatred toward the stranger,” Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller was installed Nov. 23 as the sixth archbishop of San Antonio.

His 76-year-old father, Gustavo Garcia Suarez, and 75-year-old mother, Maria Cristina Siller de Garcia, along with all of his siblings and their immediate families, attended the solemn Mass of installation and reception at St. Mark the Evangelist Church in San Antonio. Born in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, the 54-year-old archbishop is the eldest of 15 children. An auxiliary bishop of Chicago since (CNS photos/Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express) 2003, Archbishop Garcia-Siller succeeded ABOVE: Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, center, receives a hug from Chicago Cardinal Francis E. Archbishop Jose H. Gómez, who was named George during Archbishop Garcia-Siller's installation as head of the San Antonio Archdiocese Nov. coadjutor archbishop of Los Angeles in April. 23 at St. Mark the Evangelist Church. Archbishop Garcia-Siller had served as an auxiliary bishop of He is one of 26 active Hispanic bishops in the United States. Chicago from 2003 until his appointment. In his homily, Archbishop Garcia-Siller said the Christian message is countercultural and “can be profoundly unsettling and even RIGHT: Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller smiles at the Mass for his installation as archbishop of threatening to some.” San Antonio at St. Mark the Evangelist Church on Nov. 23. As archbishop of San Antonio, he also “We live in a deeply divided nation and serves as the Metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province of San Antonio, which includes the Diocese region where the notion of brotherly love may seem quaint and naive,” he said. “At of Fort Worth as a suffragan diocese, along with the Dallas, Amarillo, El Paso, Laredo, Lubbock, times the problems of the world — and in and San Angelo Dioceses. our very homes and families — may seem so enormous that we are tempted simply as interim administrator of the archdiocese the celebration. to withdraw into ourselves. ... Or we may after Archbishop Gomez’s departure in May. Before the prayer service officially defiantly stake out our own position without He will continue as auxiliary bishop. began, the archbishop was welcomed to the seeking common ground with others.” Among the visitors concelebrating was city by members of the civic and interfaith A member of the Missionaries of the Archbishop Garcia-Siller’s brother, Father community, including Protestant ministers, Holy Spirit religious order, Archbishop Eugene Garcia-Siller, a priest in San Luis rabbis and an imam. Garcia-Siller called on San Antonio Potosi. Sister Myryam Garcia-Siller, his sister, He also officially took possession of San Catholics “to be Spirit-filled and Spirit-led and Alejandro Siller, a cousin who is on the Fernando Cathedral. Using a small mallet, so much wanton killing and violation of missionaries of the Gospel in the world.” faculty at the Mexican American Catholic Archbishop Garcia-Siller knocked on the human rights. In a divided world and nation, Among the 1,500 people at the College, participated in the Liturgy of the cathedral door and said, “May the doors of the challenge is to find what unites us, to installation Mass were Archbishop Gomez; Word. His mother and father presented the San Fernando Cathedral, the mother church identify common ground, to discover creative Cardinals Francis E. George of Chicago and bread and wine at the offertory. of San Antonio, be open wide for I come as a ways of consulting and collaborating with Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston Houston; The evening before his installation, servant in the name of the Lord to dispense one another, working for the common good Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the papal Archbishop Garcia-Siller took part in a God’s love and mercy.” of all our people. nuncio to Mexico; and retired Archbishop special prayer vigil at Main Plaza in front of In remarks at the event, the archbishop “There is a great need today for people Patrick F. Flores, who headed the San San Fernando Cathedral. The event, which sounded similar themes to those in his willing to work tirelessly for justice and Antonio Archdiocese from 1979 to 2004. also included his welcome to San Antonio by homily. peace,” Archbishop Garcia-Siller said. “You Speaking at the start of the liturgy was civic and interfaith leaders, was held in the “There is so much mindless hatred and can count on me to pursue these goals with Auxiliary Bishop Oscar Cantu, who served plaza to allow more people to participate in violence in our society,” he said. “There is you.” NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 PAGE 7 Diocese

Diocese prepares to implement Changes Coming Some changes in wording at Mass that will come with the new Roman Missal new English translation of in English at Advent 2011 Roman Missal by Advent 2011 PART OF MASS PRESENT WORDING NEW WORDING People’s response at the And also with you. And with your spirit. By Michele Baker Greeting, Preface Dia- logue, Sign of Peace and Correspondent Sources of information on the Roman Concluding Rites Catholics understand the Missal, Third Edition include: Penitential Act … I have sinned … I have greatly sinned… season of Advent as the four Sundays (form A) through my own fault… through my fault, through my preceding Christmas. Yet this year, • The United States Conference of fault, through my most grievous as the faithful prepare for the joyful Catholic Bishops website www.usccb. fault… Feast of the Nativity, another advent org/romanmissal • Gloria Glory to God in the highest, Glory to God in the highest, and is taking place for English-speaking The National Association of Pastoral and peace to his people on on earth peace to people of Catholics around the world: Musicians website www.npm.org earth. Lord God, heavenly King, good will. We praise you, we (which has previews of Mass settings almighty God and Father, bless you, we adore you, we embracing a new translation of the and listings for training workshops for we worship you, we give you glorify you, we give you thanks Roman Missal. church musicians) thanks, we praise you for your for your great glory, Lord God, The Roman Missal contains • glory. … heavenly King, O God, almighty online courses through www. Father. … the texts and prayers used in the mycatholicfaithdelivered.com/fortworth celebration of the Mass. The (which offers courses for people within Nicene Creed We believe in one God, I believe in one God, the Father forthcoming Roman Missal, Third our diocese for reasonable fees) the Father, the Almighty, almighty, maker of heaven and maker of heaven and earth, of all earth, of all things visible and Edition will go into effect Nov. 27, that is seen and unseen. … invisible. … 2011, the first Sunday of Advent. The new translation, the first since … one in being with the Father. … consubstantial with the “This is the first time all the English-speaking Through him all things were Father; through him all things the initial Vatican II transition to made. … were made. … the vernacular, contains a number of countries in the world will use the same language. changes to the prayers and responses Sanctus Holy, holy, holy Lord, Holy, holy, holy Lord God of God of power and might. … hosts. … in the Mass. This is important because English is used as a “The new translation is closer Mystery of Faith Christ has died, Christ is risen, We proclaim your death, to the Latin, more poetic, and closer standard for translation for those languages that (Memorial Acclamation, Christ will come again. O Lord, and profess your form A) Resurrection until you come to the quotes of the Church fathers,” again. said Deacon Don Warner, director cannot be translated directly from the Latin.” of the Office of Worship for the Source: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops ©2010 CNS Diocese of Fort Worth. “It’s a richer — Deacon Don Warner Diocesan Director of Worship text.” Bishop Kevin Vann has the biblical roots of what we say and the text we’re using now was never assembled a committee of lay and do in the Mass.” intended to be definitive. After ordained people to educate and Ten years of extensive Vatican II, it was understood that We Understand the prepare the Diocese of Fort Worth research, writing, and submission the translation would be revisited for the change. Regional workshops to the Vatican by the International after a period of time,” Dcn. Warner Importance of Dealing with for priests, liturgists, and lay Commission on English in the explained. He pointed out that the ministers are being scheduled, online Liturgy (ICEL) went into the original translations were more People you Know and Trust information is being made available, creation of the new missal. The literally “vernacular”, that is the and organizers are in the process highly consultative process united everyday language of people from 2010 marks our 99th anniversary for our family business. We have been part of remarkable evolution in funeral service. Today there of creating workshops that can be the efforts of numerous national a particular region or country as are more choices and decisions to make than ever before. held in parishes where resources conferences of bishops, resulting opposed to the more formal literary are difficult to acquire due to in the first ever uniform English language used in official documents We know the choices a family makes are both important and deeply personal. financial considerations or excessive translation. or forms of address. “The new text Let us meet with you to talk about affordable, quality services. I’m sure you will fi nd we offer the best choices that fi t within your ideas and budget. travel times to where presentations “This is the first time all the uses elevated language, worthy of To learn more about advance planning and funding funerals or to simply are scheduled. Furthermore, the English-speaking countries in the addressing God,” he said. discuss your options, please contact us today! Diocesan Day of Communio in world will use the same language,” “Those of us who are old March will focus on the new missal. said Dcn. Warner. “This is enough to remember the change to “We’re hoping to promote important because English is used as the vernacular at the time of Vatican really great adult catechesis,” said a standard for translation for those II recall that there was very little Lucas Pollice, diocesan Director languages that cannot be translated preparation,” said Dcn. Warner. of Catechesis. “This is a blessing directly from the Latin.” “This time we have an opportunity because it gives us an opportunity “Most people don’t realize that to get it right.” to learn about and appreciate the liturgy.” “This first step in all of this TRIDENTINE MASS is looking at the Mass,” said Dcn. A Catholic family serving Catholics in the Diocese of Fort Worth Warner. “In the workshops we will Latin Mass re-examine how and why it is the : p.m. Sundays source and summit of our faith.” St. Mary of the Assumption Church THOMPSON’S “Secondarily, we will look at the actual text changes,” he continued.  W. Magnolia, Fort Worth HARVESON & COLE “Look at the richness of the texts; High Mass Second and Fourth sundays explore how it makes certain Low Mass First and Third Sundays (817)-336-0345 doctrinal concepts clearer; delve into 702 8th Ave, Fort Worth, TX PAGE 8 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 Bishop Vann invited to discuss Nostra Aetate, Vatican II document detailing Church's relations with non-Christian religions, at Fort Worth synagogue Jan. 15 By Tony Gutiérrez approved at Vatican II on Oct. 28, Associate Editor 1965, is significant for recognizing “For the Jewish Nostra Aetate, the Second that there are truths that can be Vatican Council’s document found in non-Christian religions faith, more than on the Church’s relationship that “offer a ray of that truth with any other with non-Christian religions, which enlightens all men.” At the opened the door for significantly same time, it states that it is still non-Christian improved Catholic-Jewish relations. the Church’s duty to proclaim the Continuing in fostering positive fullness of the truth found in Jesus religion, it’s relations between Catholics and Christ. Jews at a local level, Bishop Kevin “Any dialogue has to be important to Vann, in his first formal visit to based on the truth. True dialogue speak at a synagogue as bishop, will can’t happen unless the Church have dialogue visit Congregation Ahavath Shalom stands firmly on what she believes at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 15, to about herself and what Christ because we CNS photo/L'Osservatore Romano via Reuters discuss this important document. has revealed to be true,” said share a common Bishop Vann was invited to Lucas Pollice, diocesan director Pope Benedict XVI shakes hands with Rabbi Riccardo Di Segni, the chief rabbi speak at Ahavath Shalom, located of Catechesis. “However, dialogue of Rome, during his visit to Rome's main synagogue Jan. 17. During his visit heritage." at 4050 S. Hulen St. in Fort helps to discern truths that we Worth, by the congregation’s Rabbi share in common with other the pope strongly reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to dialogue with the Gary Perras. The event, a part of faiths, and it’s from these common Jews and its modern teachings against anti-Semitism. — Lucas Pollice, Ahavath Shalom’s “brotherhood” truths that we come to a better Diocesan Director interfaith outreach program, is understanding of each other.” “the Catholic world has come light social action. of Catechesis open to the public. A question Nostra Aetate was also years in terms of moving forward “For the Jewish faith, more and answer session will follow the significant for Catholic-Jewish in battling anti-Semitism.” He than with any other non-Christian developed the Liturgy of the Word bishop's presentation. relations in particular because pointed out, as an example, that religion,” said Pollice, “it’s that preceded the Eucharist out “When I became a rabbi, I felt it definitively stated that while when the Vatican recognized important to have dialogue because of the prayers and readings of the [Nostra Aetate] was so significant, members of the Jewish leadership Israel, she did so at great risk, we share a common heritage.” synagogue that was a part of their that I like to mark it. The best way and those who followed their because it could have put the lives Pollice also noted that certain Jewish roots,” he said. is to invite a prominent member of lead pressed for Christ’s death, of Catholics in countries hostile prayers of the Mass, such as the Rabbi Perras said that he the Catholic community to share the document makes clear that toward Israel at risk. offering of the bread and wine hopes the bishop’s visit will help some thoughts on it in the Jewish “neither all Jews indiscriminately Expanding on Nostra Aetate, during the preparation of the gifts foster Catholic-Jewish relations in synagogue and hopefully it will at that time, nor Jews today, can be the Vatican also issued a set of are taken from the Jewish Passover the area toward reaching common foster relations in the future,” said charged with the crimes committed guidelines regarding relations with prayers, among other liturgical ties. goals, such as working together Rabbi Perras. during his passion,” which was a the Jews in 1974, which stressed The Liturgy of the Word, on common social concerns and “To me, Vatican II was a “huge step” for Catholic-Jewish the need for improved dialogue, Pollice said, developed out of developing a respect for all people. major turning point, not only in relations, Pollice said. recognizing the shared aspects of the Jewish order of worship in “The most important of which the history of the Church, but the Rabbi Perras said that one Catholic and Jewish liturgy, greater synagogues. “Early Christians is developing a mutual respect history of religion,” he noted. of his goals is for members of his understanding and appreciation would break bread in the through knowledge,” Rabbi Perras The document, which was congregation to understand that between the two faiths, and joint celebration of the Eucharist, but said. Fort Worth to host 2011 Texas Mission Conference, 'Youth in Mission' Fort Worth will host the Youth”; “Reality of Youth Today”; Tom Craig, pastor of St. Vincent de annual Texas Mission Conference, “Music that speaks to Youth”; Paul Church in Arlington, will give 1910 • Centennial • 2010 sponsored by the Texas Mission and “Experiences of Youth in the homily. Council, Friday through Sunday Mission”. The keynote speaker will Texas is the only state to have ONE OF THE GREAT Feb. 25-27, 2011. The theme for be Father Matt Rousso, director of a statewide mission council. The this year’s conference is “Youth in the Maryknoll Education Center council exists to create mission ORGANIZATIONS IN Mission.” in New Orleans, who has led awareness and support through the The Texas Mission Council numerous youth on mission trips collaborative efforts of diocesan chose the theme for its 2011 within the United States and Latin mission directors, representatives conference in response to the America. of mission organizations serving in 2010 Tarrant County Edition Catholic Church’s teaching that all Among the workshop presenters Texas, and individuals and groups Christians are called to mission by is Father Bob Thames, a priest from interested in mission their baptism. That call is played the Diocese of Fort Worth who Collaborative efforts of the 1910 • Centennial • 2010 out among the thousands of youth has spent the last 40 years serving council include promoting a general who go on mission trips each year in missions in Mexico and Bolivia. climate of world mission awareness under the auspices of dioceses, He is currently serving in Cabezas, and sponsoring opportunities for parishes, high schools, and colleges. Bolivia, where he started Nuestra education in mission theology or The conference will be held at Hotel Señora del Carmen School. He will through immersion experiences. Trinity, located at 2000 Beach St. in present on “Reflections from Afar: A For registration forms and a Fort Worth. Bolivian Reality.” copy of the conference schedule, The conference will consist Fort Worth Bishop Kevin visit www.texasmissioncouncil.org. of workshops geared to adults who Vann, the Texas Catholic For more information, call (713) For more information go to work with youth and who lead Conference’s liaison with the Texas 529-1912, or e-mail mklhouston@ www.TheGreatestGiftCatalogEver.org youth on mission experiences. Mission Council, will celebrate the maryknoll.org, or call (713) 652- or call 817.922.8297 Topics include “Dynamics of closing Mass on Sunday. Father 8231, or e-mail [email protected]. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 9

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udallas.edu/ministry PAGE 10 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE VOICES of the CHURCH opinions, stories, wisdom, and personal voice Pondering eternity, Asserting without hurting: hungering for unity unity and Catholicism's uniqueness By David Mills o deny the Church’s By Denise Bossert e knew the article would upset T teaching on the Church t. Th erese once said, “I will spend “the One-True-Church types,” just because we see so many my heaven doing good on earth.” said one respondent to an holy people outside the Church Th at’s an intriguing thought. f our Lord, in his goodness online essay that had rebuked a I wonder how I will spend my Hmonk for saying that a person can’t be holy is like arguing that people can and mercy, gives me access Seternity. If I remain faithful until that last I outside the Church. Th e writer of the essay, live together instead of being breath, what will I be doing with my heaven? to the throne of God, I will have an Orthodox theologian, had produced in married because some couples I think we can look into our deepest hearts evidence for his rebuke a saintly Protestant and get a glimpse into what will be the focus this prayer on my lips: that woman he had known as a child. living together care for each of our prayers when we pass through the A few people had written in to defend other well. veil and, purifi ed, stand before the throne of East and West will again hold the monk and others had responded by God. attacking the monk and his defenders. truth that Christ has entrusted to the Catholic Th ere are many possibilities. hands at the altar of Our Lord. “Everyone knows God is greater than our Church.” Indeed, “all these blessings come In the month of January, we turn our categories,” wrote one. “I think the claim from Christ and lead to him, and are in attention to a number of things as Catholics. No division. No two lungs. that it is the Church as such, and that the themselves calls to ‘Catholic unity’.” We remember the lives of the unborn, Not even sister Churches. Bishop of Rome is the binding center of the In other words, the genuine goodness and we promise to intercede for them. We true Church, is indefensible as a historical evident in Protestantism should lead even pray as one, but there are some who are so Completely one. proposition,” wrote another. A couple of the Protestants themselves to the Catholic committed to this battle for life that I am others were really nasty about it. Church. Th ey are brothers, but brothers who sure they will be spending their eternity Many people seem to think that the are now a little estranged from the family interceding for the most innocent and Catholic Church claims all good things for and unable to enjoy all its blessings. Th e helpless among us. knees and through us when we get up from herself. You can see why they’d be upset Church admires them for their love of our We also pray for conversion and unity. our knees and go into the world. Th at call when we talk about the Church as “the Lord, but she wants them home. We are reminded of the Holy Father’s is so demanding that it won’t end with our Church.” Th ey seem to think the claim that To deny the Church’s teaching on the Missionary Intention for the month of last breath – it can’t end with our last breath. “Th is is the Church Christ founded” means Church just because we see so many holy January 2011: Th at Christians may achieve Th ere is a special prayer intention that “You people who are outside it are worms,” people outside the Church is like arguing full unity, bearing witness of the universal simply must follow us into the eternal realm. or at least “We’re better than you,” as if we that people can live together instead of fatherhood of God to the entire human race. We know it. And we know it deep within were the cool kids on the seventh grade being married because some couples living Th ere are some who are so committed to our souls. playground making fun of the other kids. together care for each other well. this work that they will be spending their Every once in awhile, I read something, Admittedly, we may sound like that Obviously, imitation marriages can eternity interceding for evangelization and and there’s this kind of eternal epiphany for sometimes, being sinners, but that is not express some of the good things real ecumenism. me. In that moment, I know that my heart’s what the Church teaches. As the Catechism marriages produce. Th e live-in boyfriend can And in this fi rst month of 2011, we desire points to one special intention. of the Catholic Church says, “‘many elements nurse his live-in girlfriend when she’s down also remember the Holy Father’s General Complete and full unity in the Body of of sanctifi cation and of truth’ are found with the fl u, and the girlfriend support the Intention: Th at the riches of creation be Christ. outside the visible confi nes of the Catholic boyfriend when he loses his job. Th ey can preserved, valued and made available to all, If our Lord, in his goodness and mercy, Church. . . . Christ’s Spirit uses these work together at the soup kitchen and pool as precious gifts from God to mankind. And, gives me access to the throne of God, I will Churches and ecclesial communities as their money to give to charity. Th ey may while we pray as one for this intention, there have this prayer on my lips: that East and means of salvation.” (Th e quote at the well treat each other more lovingly than a lot are many who are so committed to this West will again hold hands at the altar of beginning is from the Second Vatican of marriages we can think of. unique form of stewardship that they will Our Lord. No division. No two lungs. Not Council’s Lumen Gentium.) But still, the couple living together, be spending their eternity praying for God even sister Churches. Completely one. I’ll Th eir members were, through no no matter how lovingly, are not married. to raise up more faithful administrators of also be praying for our separated brethren, fault of their own, born into communities Th eir relation is not the ideal relation, the God’s creation. that an abundance of grace will lead them to separated from the Church and brought real marriage, in which certain fruits can Th ese are the prayer intentions this the fullness of the faith. to love Christ in them. Th ese people, the only be found. Th e two people are not, for January. But the entire year is full of If, by God’s goodness and mercy, these Council’s Unitatis Redintegratio teaches, one thing, bound together in the public, intentions. Prayers for social justice, for great events should occur before my death, the Church “accepts . . . with respect and permanent, committed way of marriage. the preservation of the family, for healing then I will borrow a line from Simeon, aff ection as brothers.” Th ey have left themselves an out. of the sick, for peace, for freedom from saying, Master, you may let your servant Th ey are, you might say, the cool kids I think there are two lessons here. First, persecution, for more vocations to the go in peace. For I have seen with my own too. Even so, we must add one more insight. God’s grace always overfl ows. And second, priesthood and religious life, for Christian eyes the manifestation of your high priestly God does give his gifts very widely, but that God’s generosity should not be taken as a educators, and for the poor, the imprisoned, prayer. You, oh Lord, have made us one – generosity does not change the fact that he reason for denying God’s commands, because and the forgotten. with a oneness that mirrors the oneness You gave us the gift of the Church and invites what he commands is the best thing for us. But what about me? What will I be share with God the Father. everyone in. In fact, he expects everyone to praying for if I should be found faithful and Until that day, I’ll keep on praying. come in. It is the best place to be, even if David Mills is deputy editor of FIRST one day stand before the Th rone of God? For Lord, hear my prayer. some other places are surprisingly nice and THINGS (www.fi rstthings.com) and author each of us, the answer is found deep within full of great people. of DISCOVERING MARY. Th e article to which us. We know what God has written on our Denise Bossert has been writing about her Th e passage from the Catechism I just he refers is David Hart’s “Th e Abbot hearts. And we know that there is an ache conversion to Catholicism for several years. She quoted continues by saying that “the power” and Aunt Susie” (www.fi rstthings.com/ deep within that causes the Holy Spirit to writes from her home in New Melle, Missouri. the other Churches and ecclesial communities onthesquare/2010/12/the-abbot-and-aunt- groan and speak to us when we are on our Catholicbygrace.blogspot.com have “derives from the fullness of grace and susie). NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 11 VOICES of the CHURCH opinions, stories, wisdom, and personal voice Don't let the Christmas lights Why it's hard blind you to the simplicity of the babe in the manger for Catholics to By Kathy Cribari Hamer pick a party n preparation for the holiday season, — permanently I set aside a day to clean the house. esus’ fi rst home was a But my mind wandered and instead I cleaned the dollhouse. stable. It was so humble By Jeff Hensley J Editor, North Texas Catholic It was easier. I could do the that its construction did not wholeI thing while sitting on a stepladder. or many years, certain of Going around to sweep the front porch lend itself to either demolition required just a twist of the table. And any Fmy Catholic friends and I necessary repairs could be accomplished or reconstruction. It was as without that disturbing $85 per hour service have joked, half seriously, about charge you get from full-sized repair people. dim as my front porch garland forming our own political party. Dollhouse repair people — me — don’t charge even a penny per hour. You don’t was over-lit, and as subdued We've said what is needed is a have to wait for them to arrive, and most of "Christian Democratic" party, the repairs require just a toothpick and tacky as our homes are ostentatious. Its occupants lived with the glue. animals, and their dinner never included “trimmings.” borrowing a term from the Tacky glue is the only tacky thing you fi nd in an elegant, Colonial dollhouse. Ours Europeans unrelated to either of has stately shutters and a wraparound front another important building disappeared time than the implosion at TCU. the two major political parties porch. It has a nicely outfi tted library (there from view. Th e west grandstand of Texas Th is year when I cleaned my daughter’s are no iBooks in iMini Land), the fi nest Christian University’s Amon G. Carter dollhouse I remembered how much I love here in the U.S. plastic silver service, and a full-sized concert Stadium was imploded while students, the child I built it for. And then, when I grand that plays Tchaikovsky’s “Sleeping alumni, staff , and friends watched. Th is watched the demise of a revered structure Th e reason being, of course, that Beauty Waltz”. drama took place in 30 seconds. on campus, my mind re-ran a succession of for Catholics attempting to form their Actually the piano plays just the fi rst Th e TCU landmark, which was visible game nights, halftime shows, heartbreaking consciences according to Church teaching, eight measures of “Sleeping Beauty Waltz”, from all over the city and the air, was losses and thrilling wins. All of those no political party comes up with balanced because apparently dollhouse sheet music removed to make room for progress — an represented my own children and students, party platforms that line up perfectly with has what miniature musicians might call updated stadium. It was a vivid sign of a whose roles in the building were etched, Catholic Social Teaching. an infi nite repeat sign. Wound up, our marvelous future, yet for me it illustrated a now, just in my mind, but no longer in that Even when we follow the bishops' dollhouse grand will play incomplete classic example of the term bittersweet. place. I inwardly grieved for the long-gone direction as expressed in their “Faithful Tchaikovsky until the end of time. I had not anticipated the sense of loss past the stadium represented. Citizenship” materials and prioritize the And it does this with only two of its that struck me as I watched, from a balcony Jesus’ fi rst home was a stable. It was so issues, placing the life issues, especially three legs. Th e front right leg was lost, across the street, when the northern-most humble that its construction did not lend abortion, at the top of the value pyramid, dollhouse decades ago, so now the treble side side of the stadium began its accordion-like itself to either demolition or reconstruction. we end up being sorely disappointed when of the keyboard rests on spools of thread. topple. It was dominos of the saddest sort, It was as dim as my front porch garland was those who run for offi ce with pro-life values, Th ey are against the wall. It is not that and the image that will stay with me longest over-lit, and as subdued as our homes are often run afoul of Catholic teaching on noticeable. was the slowly vanishing “TCU”, a giant ostentatious. Its occupants lived with the immigration or programs of assistance for Cleaning a dollhouse instead of a house logo, constructed in the top-level seats. Th at animals, and their dinner never included the poor, the hungry, and the unemployed. is like cleaning a toolbox instead of a garage. symbol had met me for nearly two decades “trimmings.” It's an ongoing dilemma. It’s less demanding. Th e required time to every day when I arrived on campus. In Sometimes we overstep the bounds of I did hear a news report of a group with complete is shorter. And you can really see seconds, I was still on campus, but the letters reason when we remember the season of somewhat similar goals being formed by the results. — and the stands — were gone. Jesus’ birth. We do this not because of the some of our elected offi cials in the House For example, in a real house it takes Unanticipated tears greeted my face, outward trappings themselves, but because of Representatives. Th ey're trying to get hours and toxic chemicals to shine the and incredulously I lowered my camera and of the history, tradition, events, memories, support for the idea that House and Senate inside of an oven no one sees anyway. With focused directly on what was a crossroad in and mostly people, that they represent. members who seek to work across party lines a dollhouse, you can tell the diff erence history. Th e end of an era. Th is season is not about tinsel and rather than being obstructionist, should be between clean and dirty because cleaning Each fall, after cleaning the house — trinkets. It is not about buildings decorated, supported for re-election rather than having the toy oven simply requires that you pick and this year the dollhouse — I approach built — or rebuilt. it count against them. up the plastic ham and plastic turkey off the the task of dressing our home for Christmas. It is about remembering what happened Th ey're stealing a little bit of my fl oor or out of the little bathtub, and insert Yearly, that job becomes more diffi cult, in that place — the stable — and carrying thunder here. I've been threatening to come them right back behind the oven door that because the decorations increase, as does the it with us always, no matter where we live, up with T-shirts and bumperstickers with has recently been glued to its hinges. When talent required to install them. whether the stable still exists or not. slogans like "Enthusiastic Moderate" "Social you’ve fi nished that, the kitchen looks like Th is year I reached the limits of my And it is about the love Jesus gave us. Justice for the Unborn, the Immigrant, Martha Stewart has been there. skill set when, for the fi rst time, I arranged A gift. and the Unemployed" and "I'm Radically Th e dollhouse I took four hours to the lights on our tree and front porch. As a We should duplicate it with the love Moderate and I vote". clean and repair is important to me because rookie, I placed an apparently superfl uous and generosity we give to others. It's hard to develop enthusiasm for I made it myself. It belongs to my daughter number of lights on our garland. When lit, respectful moderation and considerate Julie, and has entertained all my children the really beautiful red-bowed accessory reasonableness, but in today's social climate, and now grandchildren. To me they are progressively blew out fuses one string after Kathy Cribari Hamer is an award winning we need to have an upsurge of committed more important than any Colonial home, another until all were exhausted. Both the family life columnist for the NORTH TEXAS activists who will not be afraid to stand up big or little. lights and myself. CATHOLIC and a number of other Catholic for their beliefs — moderately. A few weeks ago I watched, while Th e un-lighting of my home took less diocesan newspapers. PAGE 12 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE

Father Kyle Walterscheid, director of the Offi ce of Vocations, following Vocations his ordination in May 2002 at Sacred Heart Church in Muenster. Responding to God’s call Even then he appeared to be inviting people to ask if they were called to a vocation.

Peace on Earth By Father Kyle Walterscheid, Director of Vocations

Mary, Joseph, and Th is joy and peace is not just for the peace in the coming birth of our Savior, Jesus in accord with the will of God for their a choir of angels children’s sake. It is not just a bunch of Christ. And I encourage everyone to reach lives? adore the infant hoopla that comes and goes every year; it out to your neighbors of all walks of life and I ask these questions for the specifi c Jesus in the painting is the true joy and peace that has come for be Christ’s messengers on earth in spreading reason that we are in a major crisis in all “Nativity” by Philippe de Champaigne. The everyone as it was when fi rst ushered in that joy and love. of the above areas and that at times it is as Christmas season through the angelic voice of the Archangel As I see it, Christmas is about the if Jesus, our Prince of Peace and Lord of begins with the Dec. Gabriel to the Virgin Mary: “Th e Holy reception of the Prince of Peace in our Lords, had never come into this world. Still, 24 evening vigil Spirit will come upon you, and the power hearts, a perfect time to draw more souls to when the joy and peace of Christ reigns in commemorating the of the most high will overshadow you. the conversion and belief that Jesus is the our hearts, we are compelled and eager to birth of Christ and ends with the feast Th erefore, the child to be born will be Christ who has come as the Son of God to respond. As Jesus reigns in more hearts, of the Baptism of the called holy, the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). bring an end to all violence, as He has come there will be more young men and women Lord Jan. 9. Th is is way bigger than Santa Claus. We are to save us from our sins (Matthew:1:21). So, considering the religious life, there will be a talking the Savior of all mankind, yet too what are we willing to do to fully cooperate renewal of evangelization and conversions to often our children are all too well versed in with Jesus in bringing peace and joy into our Jesus, there will be considerably less divorce commercialized gimmicks of Santa Claus world? Are we eager to stand for peace and and happier marriages, there will be an end (CNS photo/Philipp Bernard, Reunion des Musees Nationaux/Art Resource) and not nearly so knowledgeable about justice in the many human rights violations to abortion and sexual activity outside of ne of the few times the only true meaning of Christmas, Jesus throughout the world? Are we eager to be marriage in the Christian community, the in the world when Christ, the Son of God made man, the more spiritual than political? Are we eager sick and the elderly will be treasured and birthday of our Savior who has come to to advance Christian unity under the banner visited, while the imprisoned will be seen as most people seem redeem us in his sacrifi cial love. of truth and peace? Are we eager to defend redeemable. Th ere will be an equal respect to O I understand that for many people in family values, live them, and share them? all human life, and people will see themselves to be more angelic than our communities, this must also be a very Are we eager to visit and assist the sick, the as spiritual beings with a purpose and corruptible human beings is diffi cult time. Many people are experiencing elderly, and the imprisoned on a frequent responsibility that extends beyond this world the “holiday blues,” oftentimes brought basis? Are we eager to defend all human life and into the next. in the singing of Christmas on by sad memories of a loved one passing from the womb to the tomb? Are we eager We are certainly making small strides away during this time of year, by being to encourage families to pray together and in each of these areas above, but let us make carols together. “Silent separated from family members, especially thus stay together? Are we eager to share our larger strides by interiorizing the lyrics of night, Holy night,” yes, we for those serving in the military, or by not faith in Jesus Christ to others? Are we eager our favorite Christmas hymns that capture having work. For those who are struggling about helping our children, teenagers, and the splendor of the birth of our Savior Jesus know by heart our favorite emotionally, spiritually, physically, mentally, young single adults to see the benefi ts they Christ. May our hearts be burning within hymns of Christmas joy and or fi nancially, during this time of year, I can off er to Church and society by taking us, “O come let us adore Him, O come let us invite and encourage you to experience God’s the vocational approach to forming a family, adore Him, O come let us adore Him, Christ peace. love for all of us, and to fi nd hope, joy, and remaining single, or entering religious life, the Lord!” Merry Christmas!!!

National Vocation Awareness Week to be celebrated January 9-15 WASHINGTON — Th e Catholic gives parishes across the country a chance Consecrated Life, and Vocations (CCLV), not consider a call to the priesthood or Church in the United States will celebrate to promote vocations through prayer and noted the many voices that can communicate consecrated life is the fact that they were National Vocation Awareness Week, January education,” said Archbishop Robert Carlson God’s call. never asked,” said Sister Mary Joanna 9-15. of St. Louis, chairman of the Committee “Just as Jesus needed to hear with Ruhland, RSM, associate director of CCLV. Th e week begins on the Church’s on Clergy, Consecrated Life, and Vocations his human ears the voice of the Father, so “Th ere are many ways to help young people celebration of the Feast of the Baptism of the of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops our young people need to hear words of see the beauty and joy of these vocations. Lord, which falls on January 9 in 2011.Th e (USCCB). “It is our responsibility to encouragement from parents, other family Catechists are in a key position to do so. feast marks the beginning of Jesus’ public encourage young people to be generous as members, friends, and the parish. God’s call Materials to assist them can also be found on ministry. they discern the possibility of a call to service comes through the Church in this way.” the USCCB website.” Vocations week celebrates vocations to in the Church. Parents, families, and parish To support eff orts during Vocations Th e observance of National Vocation the priesthood, diaconate, or consecrated life communities must be involved in this work, week, a special prayer card and suggested Awareness Week (NVAW) began in 1976 in particular. During these days families and since vocations recruitment is everyone’s prayers of the faithful and bulletin-ready when the National Conference of Catholic the parish community are urged to nurture responsibility. All need to foster a culture of quotes, are available from the USCCB Bishops designated the 28th Sunday of the the faith of their children to prepare them to vocations.” vocations website: ForYourVocation.org or year as the beginning of NVAW. In 1997, respond to whatever God’s call is for them. Father Shawn McKnight, executive PorTuVocacion.org. this celebration was moved to coincide with “National Vocation Awareness Week director of the USCCB Secretariat of Clergy, “One reason some young people do the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 13 Catechesis Th e Liturgy of the Eucharist,Christ’s true Presence By Lucas Pollice et us continue our journey through When Jesus entered Jerusalem before THE COMMUNION RITE/We receive in the intimacy of the sacrament of Holy the Mass in the Liturgy of the his death, the people welcomed Jesus, by Whom we are transformed Communion. If one is conscious of L Eucharist. After being nourished by him as their King. Th ey threw Th is is the part of the Mass in which we committing a mortal sin, they must fi rst Christ through the Scriptures, the Liturgy palm branches before him and said: fi nally have union with Christ by receiving receive the sacrament of penance before of the Eucharist makes Christ present in the “Blessed is he who comes in the Him in the Eucharist. We have already given receiving Communion. State of grace means Eucharist which is off ered to the Father for name of the Lord and Hosanna in ourselves to Him; now this union becomes being in union and friendship with God, the forgiveness of sins. We participate in the the Highest!” (Matthew 21:9 ) We are a complete reality, physically and spiritually. which is lost when one chooses to separate Eucharistic sacrifi ce by off ering ourselves about to welcome Christ our King We literally become one fl esh with Christ. oneself through grave sin. One who is with Jesus to the Father so that we may Who is about to be in our midst. Th rough receiving the Eucharist, we embrace conscious of venial sins may receive the more perfectly know and accomplish his We acknowledge Him as our King the cross of Christ in the same way Jesus did, Eucharist without sacramental absolution, will on earth by building up the Kingdom and look forward to the day when off ering ourselves to the Father, ready to do and their venial sins are forgiven through the of God through our daily lives. We are then his Kingdom will be completed. his will. grace of the sacrament. intimately united with Christ by receiving We are his subjects and we come to Him and thus, receive our own mission. We accomplish his will. Th e Lamb of God: Th is is the final prayer Believe that Jesus is truly present in the are sent forth into the world to love and serve of preparation before receiving Jesus. Th ree Eucharist the Lord and each other. Th e Consecration: Th e priest then fi rst calls times we ask Him to take away the sins of In order to receive the Eucharist, one down the power of the Holy Spirit upon the world, and once to grant us peace. We must believe and understand what they are THE OFFERTORY/With the Bread and the bread and wine to change them into the then behold Jesus, the Lamb of God, who participating in. One must have faith that Wine, we off er ourselves to God Body and Blood of Christ by holding out his died on the cross for our sins, and we adore what they are receiving is Jesus. Faith does Th e gifts of bread and wine are off ered hands over the gifts. (Epeclesis) Th en he says Him. We are not worthy to receive Him, not mean total understanding! Th at is why it by the community to be used in the the words of Jesus, “Th is is my Body” and no one is. But we throw ourselves upon his is faith: One must go beyond what our mere eucharistic sacrifi ce. Th e gifts are prepared “Th is is the cup of my Blood” which makes mercy and ask Him to heal us. (Kneel) senses would tell us. We must accept that by the priest and then off ered to the Father the Eucharist present. Th e priest holds up the God who created the universe chose to by him on behalf of the community. We also both the Sacred Host and the Cup for all to Th e Reception of Communion: Th e unite Himself to us in such a humble form off er ourselves with the gifts of bread and adore. (Kneel) community goes forth to receive Jesus. as a tiny wafer of bread, the work of human wine as a spiritual sacrifi ce to the Father. Now we fi nally have union with Him! We hands. We must believe that it is truly Th e Canon of the Mass: Th e priest then should spend the next few minutes with Christ’s Body and Blood which we receive in Th e Prayer over the Gifts: Th e priest prays prays the prayers of sacrifi ce, off ering Jesus to Him in prayer. We speak, but we must also the Eucharist. a special prayer over the gifts asking the Lord the Father for the reparation of sins, in order remember to listen! (Kneel, Receive, Kneel) to bless them and the community. (Stand) to strengthen the mission and unity of the Fast for one hour before receiving Church, for the holiness and salvation of the Th e Prayer after Communion: Th e priest Communion THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER OF community present, and for those who have prays that the Eucharist will produce Th e Church asks Catholics to fast for SACRIFICE/God transforms the Bread died. Th e Canon ends with the climax of the abundant fruit in us and help us to continue one hour from all food and drink, except and Wine whole Mass, when the priest holds up the Christ’s work. (Stand) water and medicine, before receiving Th is is the most solemn part of the Mass Body and Blood of Jesus as sacrifi ce for the Communion. Th is is a discipline that helps in which the bread and wine are changed glory and honor of God, off ering all things Th e Final Blessing: Th e priest bestows us to prepare ourselves both physically and into the Body and Blood of Christ and to the Father through Jesus in the Holy upon the community a special blessing and spiritually for the reception of the Eucharist. off ered to the Father in sacrifi ce. Spirit. (Kneel) then dismisses the community. “Th e Mass It is a way of reminding ourselves of the is ended. Go in peace to love and serve the extraordinary event in which we are about Th e Preface: Th is is the final preparation Th e Final Doxology: Th is is the climax of Lord!” Th e Mass is only the beginning, the to participate. We set aside this time as a before the Eucharist is made present and the whole Mass. Jesus has been made present source and summit of the Christian life. We special preparation for our hearts and minds off ered in sacrifi ce. Th e community is asked in the Eucharist and is being off ered in must then go and live it! (Stand) through this act of humble obedience. Th e to lift up their hearts in thanksgiving to the sacrifi ce to the Father. Here we off er all of eucharistic fast is not meant to be a burden Father through the Son in the Spirit for the ourselves, our joys, suff erings, struggles, all Th e Recessional: A song is sung and the or diffi cult (as a matter of fact, a generation gift of his salvation. Th is is when we off er that we are and have to the Father through, priest and ministers exit the church. (Stand) ago it was to be observed from midnight the ourselves as a spiritual sacrifi ce to the Father with, and in Christ. It is a prayer of total night before you received, today the Church with Jesus. (Stand) surrender at the foot of the cross! Here we PREPARING TO RECEIVE has lessened this obligation), but rather a give all of ourselves to Christ. THE EUCHARIST practical and important way to prepare Th e Holy, Holy, Holy: A prayer that is Th e celebration of the Eucharist is the ourselves to have communion with our usually sung which announces the coming of Th e Our Father: We all join as one in most sacred and important event in the Savior. Jesus our God and King. Th is acclamation is praying the perfect prayer that Jesus taught Catholic Church. One must be consciously taken from two scriptural texts: us. Th e Our Father is followed by a prayer and spiritually prepared to receive Jesus asking God to free us from all anxiety and in this holy sacrament. We have already Lucas Pollice is director of Isaiah has a vision of the throne of evil. (Stand) mentioned Paul’s warning to the Corinthians Catechesis and Adult Faith God in heaven surrounded by angels to approach the altar with discernment Formation and RCIA for singing, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord Th e Sign of Peace: We then give those and seriousness. Th e Church requires every the diocese. Lucas holds of Hosts. All earth is fi lled with his around us a sign of peace and unity in Christ Catholic to prepare themselves carefully to a degree in theology from glory” (Isaiah 6:3-4). At the Mass, before receiving Jesus in the Eucharist. We accept the gift of the Eucharist. In order to the Franciscan University heaven is mystically brought down to are not to approach the altar of sacrifi ce if receive the sacrament worthily, one must: of Steubenville and has a earth. In the Eucharist, heaven and we have an unforgiving heart. We pray that master’s degree in theological studies from the earth touch in the Person of Jesus. in the Our Father, and we act that out in the Be in the State of Grace Institute for Pastoral Th eology of Ave Maria We are being brought into the throne sign of peace. (Stand) As we discussed earlier, one who University. He is an adjunct professor of room of God! has willingly separated themselves from theology with the Cardinal Newman Institute God and his Church cannot participate in Fort Worth. PAGE 14 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE Features

could not see, nor receive, were fl ying past at lightning speed. We're eager to text, As I headed off campus I could not shake the image of all those students yearning for connection, reaching out to make contact. It occurred to me that there was a time when but this Word God was in a similar situation. He wanted to reach out and connect to help humanity know He is really here. His answer to this dilemma was not a text message, rather was Incarnate. it was a self-message. We call this revelation the Incarnation. In a very real way the sending of Jesus is not unlike a bunch By Jeff Hedglen of 20-somethings tapping away at tiny keyboards; both are persons reaching out to connect to another. am just getting back into running after too many years We read in John’s Gospel that “Th e Word became fl esh (CNS photo/Tom Lorsung) of too much inactivity. On a recent day of training and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14), this in eff ect was (CNS photo/Paul Haring) I was running on the campus of Texas Christian God pushing SEND on the fi rst text message. Th e receiving A fi refi ghter places a wreath on a statue of Mary high atop a column at University. Th e air was crisp, the sky was blue, and the part of the message is up to us. the Spanish Steps in Rome Dec. 8. Since 1857, fi refi ghters have honored Mary by placing a wreath on the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Icampus was strangely quiet for the middle of the morning Th e story of the Garden of Eden is a story of a plan gone on a school day. Th en, as I was walking through the center of awry. God made us to share an intimate relationship. Th at campus fi nishing my workout, doors fl ew open, and students relationship was wounded by streamed out in every direction. All of a sudden I was It was truly a disobedience. Th e road back surrounded by people paying no attention to me. to intimacy began with an Th is was not primarily because I am old enough to be sight to behold, Incarnate Word sent to all their father, nor because I was obviously in work-out mode: of us. In the end the love of sweaty, gasping for air, and fi ghting back the pain. No, hundreds of God was not to be stopped their lack of attention on me was directly a result of their people sharing the by human weakness. In unabashed focus on the screens of their cellular devices. fact it is our weakness that It was truly a sight to behold, hundreds of people sharing same sidewalks brought forth the grandest the same sidewalks yet focused elsewhere. Th ey were staring in display of God’s strength, to their phones scanning the mobile networks trying to discover yet focused a tiny babe, wrapped in what had transpired in their universe in the last 55 minutes. In elsewhere. swaddling clothes and laid in a very real way, though they were only feet if not inches away a manger. from human contact, they were looking for connection. Cell phones, Facebook, Since I was nearly invisible to the passing co-eds, I e-mail and the multitude of other electronic social ventured a gaze or two into the faces of those who passed me. connections are great inventions of the modern world. But Some were smiling and laughing at what they encountered the words of God are most clearly found in the pages of the on their phones, others were stone faced and all business. Still Scriptures, in the rustle of leaves, in the smile of a friend, others were intensely focused, with thumbs fl ying in rapid in the hug from a dad, and in the recesses of our heart. As reply to the messages that had greeted them. Christmas approaches, pocket the cell phone for a while, and It occurred to me that swirling in and around each be open to a message from another Provider. of us on that mostly unnoticed beautiful morning were the air waves that were carrying all these messages. Th ey Jeff Hedglen, youth minister at St. Bartholomew Parish in were unseen but very active. As I pondered this I became Southwest Fort Worth, is the principal organizer of Camp Fort (CNS photo/Paul Haring) overwhelmed at the immense amount of data that was Worth each summer. Readers with questions can contact Jeff at The Vatican's Christmas tree is erected in St. Peter's Square Dec. 3. The tree is from the northern Italian province of Bolzano, is more than 100 feet tall, and fl oating about. Hundreds if not thousands of messages that I jeff @stbartsfw.org. grew for 94 years. Cross-Words By Mark Simeroth Across & Down: 1. Bethlehem was his city desert 2. Make reparation 4. Bring upon oneself 3. John had one in the 5. John’s tractor?

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www.sheepdotcom.com NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 15 Glorious in Majesty Humbly Born in a Stable he prophet Micah was a contemporary of Isaiah. With passionate eloquence he attacked the mer- Tchants, judges, corrupt priests, and prophets who exploited the poor. His prophecies begin with threats of pun- ishment for sins and end on a note of hope and restoration through a Messiah. Concerning this Messiah, some 700 years before the birth of Christ, Micah says: “But you, Bethlehem-Ephrathah, / too small to be among the clans of Judah, / From you shall come forth for me / one who is to be ruler in Israel; / Whose origin is from of old, / from ancient times” (5:1). Th is ruler who is to be born in Bethlehem is an eternal being! Th ough small in size, the village of Bethlehem was huge in signifi cance: It was the home of Ruth and Boaz. On the road to Bethlehem is where Jacob’s beloved Rachel died and was buried. And, most notably, David, the greatest king that Israel had ever known, was born there before his descendant Jesus — the King of Kings whose reign will last forever!

CAROLE NORRIS GREENE ASSOCIATE EDITOR, FAITH ALIVE! CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE Mary, Joseph and a choir of angels adore the infant Jesus in the painting "Nativity" by Philippe de Champaigne. (CNS photo/Philipp Bernard, Reunion des Musees Nationaux/Art Resource) Motherhood and Mary BY MARY JO PEDERSEN the Jerusalem temple (2:19, 51). At the same time, however, taking CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE Any mother can relate to Mary’s time to be still and refl ect openly with maternal struggle to fi gure out a child’s God about our children, our future, and or many, Mary, the mother of Jesus, behavior, and most would not take such daily worries is a pre-requisite to doing seemed to be inaccessible to many experiences so calmly. what Mary did so well: allowing God to be Fwomen: without sin, perfect in every In a very ordinary, human way, birthed into our lives. way, saying “yes” to God’s will. How could Mary’s wise response of keeping these life Mary was both a mother and a dis- most mothers relate to that image? events made the Incarnation possible. ciple of Jesus. We too are both parents and Honor Mary, yes. Pray through her Perhaps this is where Mary’s birthing disciples. Today, as in fi rst-century Pales- powerful intercession, certainly. Look up of Jesus into the world and our minor role tine, God’s will is mysteriously unfolding to her with admiration, of course. can meet. in our lives. Jesus reveals himself to us But imitate her in the daily hectic In the midst of busy days, we can gradually, in very ordinary and sometimes pace of mothering? Is it possible? learn to ponder and be still when we face disturbing circumstances: the diagnosis Refl ections on Mary in the Christ- improbable or disturbing circumstances of an illness, a job loss, or the unexpected mas season can help us to understand how instead of reacting with anxiety or anger news of trouble in the family. Mary’s response to parenthood and the will or defensiveness. Nothing that happens to us is outside of God was both extraordinary and ordinary. Parenting for Mary and for us is part of the love of God, and we always have the Mary had the privilege of bringing "[The magi] do more than point to the majesty of the faith journey. In pondering all these opportunity of allowing divine wisdom to Christ into the world, and every parent of Jesus," explains Joseph Kelly. "They symbolize things, i.e., refl ecting deeply, Mary cre- guide and comfort us. ... the acceptance of Christ's message in countries who births or adopts a child also has the that never acknowedged the power of the Roman ated openness to the Holy Spirit in her Mary’s example shows us that. Maybe privilege of birthing a new “image” of Empire...." (CNS photo/Crosiers) heart. Instead of immediately reacting, that is why we call her the Queen of Peace, Christ in their children as they clean up, she teaches us to ponder the anxieties and and perhaps keeping things in our heart cook, carpool, and instruct their kids. enting moments, Mary “kept all these challenges of daily life. and pondering them is a way to bring Th ough there is no historical record of things … in her heart.” One time was No parent will fi nd this posture of peace into our lives and into the world. Mary’s mothering, the Scriptures give us when the shepherds announced that Jesus pondering easy. Most of us want to quick- profound insights into how she was able to would be the Messiah, and another time ly control the situation surrounding our Pedersen, a veteran coordinator of mar- parent in line with God’s will. was when Jesus wandered away from his lives and our children, and it is wise for us riage and family spirituality programs, Luke tells us that at two critical par- family at age 12 and was found teaching in to do that to some extent for their safety. lives in Omaha, Nebraska. PAGE 16 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE Remembering Jesus' majesty; recalling his humble birth

BY FATHER DALE LAUNDERVILLE, OSB wants to speak to us communicated by a become human was a radical statement CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE messenger. Rather, the “Word” that God that was paradoxical to the extreme for speaks to us “became fl esh and made his a Jewish audience. Even the disciples of t Christmas, we sing carols, watch dwelling among us” ( John 1:14). Jesus who came to know and love him had holiday pageants, light candles, and Th e Word that has become fl esh ex- great diffi culty understanding the full real- Aexchange gifts. Th is is only a sampling ceeds our human dimensions. Th is Word ity of Jesus’ authority and charisma. When of the activities we reenact each year in is far too much for our feeble human lan- he appeared to be defeated by earthly pow- order to bring to life the story of the birth guage to communicate; this Word is of a ers, they fl ed. of Jesus as it has been told through the completely diff erent order of being than “God coming among us to become generations. that of humans. one like us so that we might become like Th e expectation that God would return “In the beginning was the Word, and the God” is a statement made by Irenaeus (sec- and deliver his people in a dramatic way Word was with God, and the Word was God” ond century) and by Athanasius (fourth had lived on in the generations between ( John 1:1). Yet this eternal Word that had century). Th is proclamation about the the Jewish people’s return from exile in the no beginning unites with human fl esh so salvation given to us through Christ’s In- late-500s B.C. and the time of Christ. that we might come to share in God’s life. carnation was celebrated within the early Th ose in exile around 540 B.C. were not Th e shalom announced in the prophecy Christian communities from generation hopeful about their situation. Th e prophet of Isaiah goes far beyond a utopian scene to generation. Th ey debated and fought to who speaks in Isaiah 40-55 tries to stir their of earthly wholeness; the shalom commu- come to the right understanding of this imaginations and expand their hearts so that nicated by the Word made fl esh off ers to mystery of the Word made fl esh. they might see that the Lord was about to humans the possibility of becoming sharers For Christians, the coming of Christ "No longer is the message that God wants to come and lead them back to Zion. speak to us communicated by a messenger," writes in the divine life as children of God! as one like us is the defi ning moment of What is startling about the messenger Benedictine Father Dale Launderville. "Rather word Just as the exiles in 500 B.C. were hesi- human history. For human life, it changes whose feet are on the mountains is that he that God speaks to us has 'become fl esh and dwelt tant to embrace the prophetic message of the whole game. Now we are invited to among us' (John 1:14)" (CNS photo/Rick Musacchio, brings a message of shalom: peace in the Tennessee Register) a restored Zion, so also the people of Jesus’ share in the life of God as God’s children. fullest sense, a promise of wholeness in time were slow to accept his message about Th is gift is the newness that brings an which confl ict, disease, and illness are to be was a promise for the future. the nearness of God’s kingdom. So the pro- unspeakable joy to those who believe. Jesus overcome. Th e message of the prophets was re- logue to John’s Gospel states: “He was in the Christ, the Word made fl esh ( John 1:14), is Th is message of salvation is one that peated from generation to generation. Th is world, and the world came to be through him, the source of all new beginnings. makes the exiles, the people of Jerusalem, message helped to keep the Jewish people but the world did not know him” (1:10). Th e humble beginnings of Jesus and even the very stones of Jerusalem attentive to the God who had been bless- Within the Jewish tradition, God was Christ as a vulnerable infant show us how break forth in song (Isaiah 52:9). Th e ing and sustaining them. transcendent. He communicated with his important it is for us to recognize that our reversal of the fortunes of Jerusalem will But the Letter to the Hebrews states people through mediators. Th e time-hon- life is a gift. become a spectacle for all the nations to that “in these last days, (God) spoke to us by ored Torah and the oracles of the prophets see. Th ose who returned from exile real- a son, whom he made heir of all things and were revered and studied at length in order Benedictine Father Launderville is a ized that the full eff ects of this restoration through whom he created the universe” (1:2). to be attentive to God. Scripture scholar at St. John’s University, would not be realized in their lifetime. It No longer is the message that God But the claim that God himself would Collegeville, Minnesota. See Christmas through the eyes of a child

BY JEFF HEDGLEN the magical experience of angels heard on pletely and intimately to humanity in the not perish but might have eternal life” ( John NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC high, and the gifts of gold, frankincense, gift of his Son. For as John’s Gospel so 3:16). and myrrh; all in service of the birth of the precisely states it: “In the beginning was the Santa Claus and reindeer, Christmas here is nothing like the look on a Son of God. Word, and the Word was with God, and the trees and carols, ribbons and bows, can child’s face when they are awash in If you are leaning to the humbug side Word was God… and the Word became fl esh upstage the humble Christmas Crèche, Tthe glow of the lights on a Christmas of things this year, there is a way out, and and made his dwelling among us, and we saw but they can never outshine the Light of tree, or their curious excitement as they it is already planted within your heart. It his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, Christ that burns with the love of the Fa- gaze upon a Nativity scene, or the meteoric is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit: fear full of grace and truth” ( John 1:1, 14). ther. Th e humble manger scene itself may drop in fortitude as the all-night wait for of the Lord, also called awe and wonder Th e awe deepens as we ponder the not have the sparkle of the Kennedy Cen- Santa becomes an arm cradling trip to bed in the presence of the Lord. Th is is an oft reality that this Word made Flesh, Jesus, ter tree or the magic of snowfall on a cold where visions of sugar plums await. misunderstood gift and one that comes in comes to the world as we did, a baby, winter’s night, or the anticipatory feeling Th e innocent approach children have handy this time of year. It is a profound swaddled, loved, and adored. Th e wonder as wrapping paper is torn open, but all of to this time of year serves as a reminder respect for God’s glory and a selfl ess love comes into play as we consider the humble these images combined are no match for and a challenge for the rest of us to not for God. It protects us from sin through a scene described in Luke. around the man- the awe and wonder inspired by the com- get caught up in the to-do lists, stress, and dread of off ending God. ger, a setting fi lled with angels, shepherds, ing of Jesus. frazzle that can cause our experience of Th e “fear” this gift is speaks of is the animals, and kings, all awash in the glow Th e Holy Spirit is already done this most important holiday to move from kind of fear we have of fi re, in that we of a shining star announcing the birth of Christmas shopping. Waiting for each of awe and wonder to a bah and humbug. respect its power and do not mess with it. the Savior. us is a renewed sense of awe and wonder Even though it is the sparkling If you've ever stared into a fi re marveling St. Francis’ inspiration to reenact this for the most wonderful gift of all, Jesus. lights, magical moments, and impending at the dance of the fl ame, you can begin to scene helps us all picture what it might gifts that mainly motivate the youngest grasp the wonder and awe we are to have have been like for Mary, Joseph, and Jeff Hedglen is Youth and Young Adult celebrants of Jesus’ birth, within their ex- at the presence of God. Jesus. But the clay fi gures are just an out- minister for St. Bartholomew Parish and perience lies the true heart of Christmas. We are in awe that the God who cre- ward sign of the eternal reality that “God a regular columnist in the NTC. He and Th e Scriptures reveal a similar set of cir- ated all that is, who is almighty and all so loved the world that he gave his only Son, his wife Monika are members of St. Bar- cumstances: a sparkling light in the sky, knowing, chose to reveal Himself com- so that everyone who believes in him might tholomew's. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 17 Christmas bells: Hear them ring! BY STEPHEN STEINBEISER “Teacher says every time a bell rings an Th en from each black, accursed mouth CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE angel gets their wings.” Th e cannon thundered in the South, Th e beloved Ukrainian carol “Ring And with the sound hether it’s the voice of someone we Christmas Bells” originally had secular lyr- Th e carols drowned love, a baby crying in church, or a ics and good wishes for the New Year, but Of peace on earth, good will to men! Wparticularly disturbing ringtone, eventually it was adapted to the ancient sounds can certainly command our atten- Ukrainian peasant tale of bells ringing out And in despair I bowed my head: tion. all over the world the night that Jesus was "Th ere is no peace on earth," I said, Th roughout every time and culture, born. “For hate is strong, bells have played just such a role, soaring in Perhaps the most compelling faith “And mocks the song the air with spiritual announcements, aural story of Christmas bells was written by the "Of peace on earth good will to men!" reminders of God’s presence and gift of great American poet Henry Wadsworth time. In ancient days, liturgical bells rang Longfellow when the Civil War was rag- Th en pealed the bells more loud and out the truth and beauty of God’s existence. ing in 1863 and tragedies had struck his deep: Bells command our attention as they soar "in the air Worn on the rabbi’s vestments or used to with spiritual announcements — aural reminders personal life: “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; adorn horse harnesses, bells were meant to of God's presence and gift of time," writes Steven “Th e Wrong shall fail, raise consciousness of God as creator. Steinbeiser. (CNS illustration/Emily Thompson) I heard the bells on Christmas Day “Th e Right prevail, In Exodus 28:33-35 and 39:25-26 and Th eir old, familiar carols play, “With peace on earth, good will to in Zechariah 14:20, bells are mentioned. of time (“chronos”) to inspire a realization And wild and sweet men.” Some were engraved with “Holy to the of God-given time (“kairos”). Like angels Th e words repeat Lord,” so that each time they rang they breaking through the clouds to announce Of peace on earth, good will to men! Longfellow literally came through gave glory to God. Bells still call monks to shepherds, “glory to God in the highest” fi re and sword only to proclaim his un- and nuns to prayer, as they have since (Luke 2:14), bells break through our cloudy And thought how, as the day had come, dying faith in the promise of Christ’s early Christian times, and parishes still use confusion and burgeoning schedules to Th e belfries of all Christendom birth. Th e greatest suff ering in the harmonious pealing to call the faithful to announce: Remember who made you and Had rolled along world can never extinguish the peace prayer. why you were born. Secular culture enjoys Th e unbroken song and promise that was born on that fi rst Whether real or recorded, bells can and employs bell imagery. Of peace on earth, good will to men! Christmas night. insistently remind us that Mass is about Can we imagine a Christmas holiday to start, joyfully announce a newly wed- without “Jingle Bells” or “Silver Bells”? Till ringing, singing on its way, ded couple, or solemnly toll as the body of Or ever forget the heartfelt conclusion of Th e world revolved from night to day, a loved one is on its way to a fi nal resting the Christmas classic “It’s a Wonderful A voice, a chime, Steinbeiser is director of liturgy with the place. Life” as the youngest daughter of George A chant sublime Spiritan Campus Ministry at Duquesne Bells break through our linear notion Bailey (played by Jimmy Stewart) remarks: Of peace on earth, good will to men! University in Pittsburgh. Let the Prince of Peace be born — in our hearts

BY SHARON K. PERKINS Christmas visitation and which parents get as the bedraggled evergreen put out on the NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC short-changed. One only has to turn on curb on December 26. No — the peace of the radio psychologist “Dr. Laura” to hear t’s not a short-lived, ro- Christmas takes work, most especially in he Christmas of pop culture has its one caller after another complain about mantic notion that can be my own family! But, thanks be to God, it’s heroes — Santa Claus, Frosty the this or that relative’s off ensive, insensitive I not my work alone. TSnowman, and Rudolph the Red- behavior at Christmastime. How is it discarded as quickly as the be- When I’m tempted to be “grinchy” Nosed Reindeer — as well as its villains possible that the angelic hosts of Christ- this Christmas season because someone (the Grinch and Mr. Scrooge come to mas proclaim good news of “peace on draggled evergreen put out on in my family didn’t measure up to my ex- mind). Th e stories of these characters serve earth,” when Christ’s peace is so elusive at the curb on December 26. No pectations, or when I’m tired and crabby to illustrate that the Christmas season home? from the holiday travel, or when some- can bring out both the best and the worst Although more accurate translations of — the peace of Christmas takes one doesn’t “ooh” and “ahh” over the gift in people — or maybe it just throws into the Bible would quote Luke 2:14 as “Peace I shopped for so carefully, or any one of sharper relief what is hidden there in the on earth to those on whom God’s favor rests,” work, most especially in my those things that cause me temporarily to heart, ready to pounce on unsuspecting I also like the older versions which read, forget what the feast of Christmas is re- bystanders. “Peace on earth to men of good will.” For own family! But, thanks be to ally all about — I’ll ask for that peace, the I’ve been musing on this point for God’s favor — his gift of true and lasting God, it’s not my work alone. peace that the world cannot give. And several weeks now, because I’ve been con- peace — is made manifest through the the Prince of Peace, who wills my good so fronted by the reality of pre-Christmas very fl awed and human vehicle of our good much that he chose to share my human strife everywhere I turn. Th ree diff erent will, the will to work for the good of the I’m thinking that when it comes right condition, will gladly come to be born persons in my immediate circle of family other person, even when he’s off ensive or down to it, the peace promised by Christ’s again in my heart. and friends are going through nasty di- insensitive or she is downright vindictive. coming to birth isn’t some magical phe- vorces, accompanied by all the bitter wran- It’s the will to lay one’s ego, one’s righteous nomenon, like a sprinkling of angelic fairy Sharon Perkins and her family, former gling over property and custody. Petty indignation, one’s hurt feelings aside, just dust over a sleeping and passive planet. members of St. Rita Parish in Fort Worth, jealousies erupt over who is buying a big- as Christ, in the “form of God,” laid aside his It’s doesn’t have the careless, almost banal live in Austin, where Sharon is a director ger or better gift for whom. Unrealistic and divinity, “took the form of a slave, coming in quality of smiley faces and “have a nice of religious education. Sharon coordinated selfi sh expectations give rise to guilt-trips human likeness,” and “humbled himself ” (Phi- day” slogans. It’s not a short-lived, roman- the fi rst Synod in the Diocese of Fort over which set of parents gets the longer lippians 2:7-8). tic notion that can be discarded as quickly Worth. PAGE 18 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010

John Gill (left), coordinator for the Meals on Wheels distribution center at St. John the Apostle Church in North Richland Hills, gives emergency meals to a John holds the award he earned earlier this year, when the national volunteer driver to deliver to clients. These canned meals are provided in the Meals on Wheels organization named him the 2010 American John sorts food into bags with Donnaka Knowles (center), another Meals on Wheels winter in case bad weather prevents normal Meals on Wheels delivery. Volunteer. coordinator, and another driver, who came to pick up food to deliver to clients. "High-five John" Gill, the 95-year-old St. John parishioner, Meals on Wheels coordinator, and winner of the national organization's 2010 volunteer award, proves that the ability to serve is Ageless

Story and Photos by Joan Kurkowski-Gillen / Correspondent ou wouldn’t think in charge,” Gill explains. At first he drove the prepared meals to life could hold client homes, but when that task became too many more too cumbersome, the dedicated volunteer Y changed jobs and began organizing the daily surprises for someone 95 years Meals on Wheels shipment of salads, drinks, and hot food. At least twice a week, Gill old. But 2010 proved to be a travels to the St. John’s Formation Center to year of unexpected celebration package meals and place them in coolers for delivery to the homebound. Each arriving for John Gill. driver is greeted at the doorway with a The first joyful moment cheerful “hello” from the spry distribution coordinator. came in May when more Vickie Dewess, a Meals on Wheels driver, wasn’t surprised when the elderly than 160 friends and family gentleman who readies her deliveries every gathered inside a room Friday was tapped for national recognition. “I had everyone I know vote for him!” in St. John the Apostle’s enthuses the St. John parishioner. “At his age he should be receiving these meals. Instead, Family Life Center in North he makes sure other people have something Richland Hills to celebrate "High-Five John" Gill, as he is affectionately known in the community, high-fives volunteer Vickie Dewees. Dewees, to eat. I just hope when I’m as old as he is, I also a St. John parishioner, said she wasn't surprised when John won the award. can still get out of bed.” the longtime parishioner’s Gill attributes his health and longetivity 95th birthday. Weeks of secret to the elderly who often live alone, boasts loneliness filled most of John’s days. In to good genes and prayer. Both of his parents the largest army of unpaid workers in 1991, after 52 years of marriage, Gill’s wife, lived into their 80s, and his brother Sam, was planning culminated with the the country with more than 1.2 million Josephine, passed away. The couple had 92 when he passed away. A surviving sister is volunteers. Approximately 5,000 of those enjoyed escaping the hot Texas summers by 89. The father of two sons, Gill also has three unsuspecting guest of honor supporters help deliver meals in Tarrant living in their Michigan cabin from April to grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and walking into a room decorated County. October. five great-great-grandchildren. Gill bowed his head of striking “When the geese were leaving, that’s “I pray every day for the way God has with banners and balloons. white hair and wiped away tears when when we left Michigan,” joked Gill, recalling taken care of me and my family,” says the representatives of the local Meals on Wheels the happy months they spent together in the Catholic convert. “And I always ask for peace “I cried my heart out,” Gill said, program told him he was the organization’s woods each year. “After Jo died, I went back in the world.” remembering the handmade placemats 2010 American Volunteer. up there, but it didn’t look the same. So I Co-workers say it’s Gill’s caring nature, and cards made by school children. “They “It’s just nice to hear you do good decided to sell.” gentle spirit, and enthusiasm that inspires planned this for four months, and I had no work,” said the humble award winner With his partner gone and routine others to serve. Known as “High Five John” idea it was going on.” who received the most votes for the award disrupted, the former J.L. Hudson by everyone in the community, the upbeat The next surprise came a few months honoring the organization’s top volunteer department store employee didn’t know what volunteer is considered Meals on Wheels’ top later. A 16-year veteran of Meals on Wheels based on online voting on a group of short to do with his time. A fellow parishioner recruiter. After hearing him talk about his of Tarrant County, Gill received the Jody video clips highlighting each nominee’s suggested he join the Knights of Columbus devotion to ministry, it’s easy to see why. Tepedino Nicholo Award from the Meals on accomplishments. and get involved in volunteer work. He took “I just enjoy the work and I let it show,” Wheels Association of America in October. At an age when he could easily be on the the advice and began ushering at Mass and beams Gill as he sets aside a warm tray of The national award is given annually to a receiving end of assistance, Gill says working counting the money placed in collection grilled catfish that will become someone’s volunteer who gives outstanding service to as the coordinator at the Meals on Wheels baskets. lunch or dinner. I tell people how inspiring it America’s homebound and forgotten seniors. distribution center at St. John the Apostle “When (former pastor) Monsignor is to help others. When they see someone my Meals on Wheels, which provides Church gives his life purpose. (Charles) King allowed Meals on Wheels to age doing it, it lets them think they should human contact and hot, nutritious food There was a time when despair and distribute food from the church, he put me give it a try.” NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 PAGE 19

A view of a statue of Santo Hermano Pedro, after whom the hospital was named, in front of the Bishop Vann and Peter Flynn observe the newly built hospital chapel at Hospital Santo Hermano hospital chapel. Pedro Betancourth after the dedication ceremony. Bishop Vann leads small delegation to visit sister diocese in Juticalpa, Honduras Story and Photos by in 1999, shortly after Hurricane Mitch In the next issue of the North Texas Juan Guajardo ravaged Honduras, according to Peter Catholic (to be in the mail Jan. 22) a Correspondent Flynn, diocesan director of Finance and more detailed account of the trip, the Administrative Services. Since then the projects jointly pursued, and the ways Editor's note: This visit happened just relationship has grown and expanded in which the people of the two dioceses before the NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC went to to include parish-to-parish relationships have been affected by this relationship press. A more detailed account will appear between eight Fort Worth and six will appear. Around the same time, in the next issue. Juticalpa parishes. video and pictures from the mission visit The delegation included Bishop will be posted on the online version of Over the course of a few days Vann, Flynn, Deacon Len Sanchez, the North Texas Catholic: fwdioc.org/ntc. in December, a small delegation of diocesan chancellor, Lon Kyle, Good Highlights of the trip with a parishioners from our diocese and Shepherd parishioner, and St. Elizabeth special emphasis on the Hospital Santo diocesan representatives led by Bishop Ann Seton parishioners Alan Napleton Hermano Pedro Betancourth, will show Kevin Vann traveled through dense and Kirstin Kloesel. They were how contributions from not only Fort forests, over rocky paths, through accompanied throughout the trip by Worth, but other partners around the creeks, and up mountains throughout Bishop Mauro Muldoon, OFM, of country including the Franciscan Sisters the Diocese of Juticalpa. Their motive: the Diocese of Juticalpa, and Alberto at Springfield, Illinois, have outfitted to visit the parishes and people we’ve Valledares, executive director of Hospital this modern medical facility, bringing partnered with in Honduras and to Santo Hermano Pedro Betancourth — high-quality, low-cost medical care to observe the projects that have resulted the Catholic hospital jumpstarted with a the approximately 150,000 people living Bishop Kevin Vann speaks to hundreds of faithful at Catedral from the relationship between the two $1.5 million donation by the Diocese of in the Catacamas area, a population that dioceses. Fort Worth and being cooperatively built was until the opening of the hospital, Inmaculada Concepcion on the Feast of the Immaculate Concep- The sister diocese commitment with the help of the Diocese of Juticalpa one of the largest areas in the hemisphere tion. The bishop concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Muldoon. between Fort Worth and Juticalpa began and the Honduran government. not served by a regional hospital.

Deacon Len Sanchez jokes with a group of acolytes before a Mass at Virgen de Candelaria Parish in Bishop Mauro Muldoon, OFM, of Juticalpa, Peter Flynn, Bishop Vann, and Alberto Valledares, Salama. Bishop Vann installed Father Joaquin Euceda as the pastor there during the special Mass. St. executive director of Hospital Santo Hermano Pedro Betancourth, look at the altar and crucifix in Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Keller has formed a sister parish relationship with Candelaria. the newly opened hospital chapel. PAGE 20 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE

Word to Life Readings Refl ections

“I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations.” — Isaiah 42:6c

“Nations January 9, Baptism of the Lord. shall walk by your light.” Cycle A. Readings: — Isaiah 60:3 1) Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 Psalm 29:1-4, 9-10 2) Acts 10:34-38 January 2, Epiphany of the Lord. Gospel) Matthew 3:13-17 Cycle A. Readings: 1) Isaiah 60:1-6 By Jeff Hensley Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13 he readings for this weekend are all about power, gentleness, and 2) Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6 peace. Gospel) Matthew 2:1-12 T Seemingly contradictory images fl ow through the Scriptures. Isaiah’s By Sharon K. Perkins image in Chapter 42 is of the suff ering servant on whom God has put his spirit to “bring forth justice to the nations, not crying out, not shouting, was recently at the funeral of a dear family friend who had lived a long not making his voice heard in the streets.” Yet the Scriptures say of him, Ilife, rich with family, friends and a deeply rooted faith. Th e gathering he will establish “justice on the earth.” included the deceased’s children, grandchildren, and friends from more Th e responsorial psalm, Psalm 29, presents images of the glory and than 50 years’ acquaintance, and, as funerals are wont to do, it provided power of God, contrasting with the repeated phrase of the response: “Th e a bittersweet occasion for much storytelling and outpouring of emotion. Lord will bless his people with peace.” From the stories told and retold from the wake service all the way Th e baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3 speaks of him coming out of the through the burial, there emerged a recurrent theme that was not water and “the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming upon unexpected and yet still surprisingly powerful when spoken aloud: that him,” as a voice from the heavens says, “Th is is my beloved Son, with this gentleman and his wife had profoundly and lavishly devoted their whom I am well pleased.” lives to others in ways that extended far beyond their immediate family My wife works with some extraordinary people teaching English as a circle. Second Language to high school students. Two of her fellow teachers, in Although the couple of modest means had experienced their measure particular, have endured some personal and family hardships that would of life’s diffi culties, their family home was a beacon of love and integrity have fl attened lesser folk. One is white, the other is black. that drew others to its welcoming light. Th eir surviving children One currently takes care of her brother’s children while he and his wife understood their parents’ generosity, rejoiced in it, and carried the legacy recover from an auto accident. Th is is in addition to her daily occupation, forward into their own families. providing tender care while teaching refugees from war-torn countries In today’s readings, it is apparent that Jerusalem, the ancient city of around the world, ranging from Rwanda to Burma. God, is intended to be the same kind of beacon of hope to the world. Th e other teacher recently had a breakthrough with a troubled student Th e great gift of Christ’s birth is not an entitlement for Israel only, to be who had been involved in gangs and could not summon a belief in her hoarded or withheld by the elite; nor is it an earthly power to be feared, own intelligence and capabilities — until this teacher invested a good deal suppressed, and extinguished, as Herod attempted to do. Rather, as St. of one-on-one attention and instruction in her. Paul describes it, the grace of the Incarnation is to be poured out for the Th ese women share, in common with my wife, a deep and abiding benefi t of all peoples, and we who have witnessed it are but the privileged faith in the One who came up from the water that day, full of the power stewards and proclaimers of that gift. of the Holy Spirit. It is faith in him, and a portion of that same Spirit Th e friend we buried last week could have reserved his time and that they share, that allows them, day in and day out, to do as the Acts talents for his children only; they could have resented his liberality to Scripture says of Jesus, that he was going “about doing good,” for God is those outside the family. But all who knew him were made richer, and with them. In their actions, we witness power and gentleness, God’s power the father’s beacon was made even brighter because his God-given gifts clothed in human weakness. were both acknowledged and shared. QUESTIONS: QUESTIONS: Do you know people who seem to be living out the promise of their Have you ever been tempted to hoard or withhold your blessings baptism and faith in extraordinary ways? What can you do to serve out of selfi shness or fear? How can the meaning of Christ’s birth the needs of others in a way that challenges you to draw on the for all peoples encourage you to live more generously? strength that comes from God? NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 21

Word to Life Readings Refl ections

“John the Baptist saw “The people who sit in darkness have Jesus coming seen a great light, on those dwelling in toward him and a land overshadowed by death light said, ‘Behold, has arisen.” the Lamb of — Matthew 4:16 God, who takes away the sin of the world.’” January 23 . Th ird – John 1:29 Sunday in January 16, Second Sunday Ordinary in Ordinary Time. Time. Cycle A. Cycle A. Readings: Readings: 1) Isaiah 8:23 to 9:3 1) Isaiah 49:3, 5-6 Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14 Psalm 40:2-4, 7-10 2) 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17 2) 1 Corinthians 1:1-3 Gospel) Matthew 4:12-23 Gospel) John 1:29-34

By Jean Denton

By Jeff Hedglen smiled at the photo Christmas card. Pictured on the front was a smiling Ilittle girl seated in a beautiful fl ower garden. Yet another pair of doting here’s been only one time in my life when I was in total darkness. grandparents was showing us that the child of their child was the center TIt was so dark that I put my hand one inch in front of my face and of their universe. I soon found out she literally was. Th ey had taken on could not see it, not even a shadow or an outline, nothing. I knew my parental responsibility for her. hand was in front of my eyes because I could feel my breath hit the skin Grandparents raising grandchildren isn’t a unique situation, and my and because my brain had sent signals to my hand to raise it to this friends’ story is not uncommon. Th e grandfather is in his mid-70s, the position. But these were the only indications. It was an eerie experience to grandmother in her mid-60s. He continues to work as a college professor. have my eyes wide open and see absolutely nothing. She retired recently. Th e little girl, who is 7, brings enormous joy into their Th is occurred in a cavern beneath the earth’s surface in Central Texas. household — along with enormous energy and not a few needs. Th e tour guide had instructed each of us to fi nd a place to sit down, and Th e girl’s parents are separated. Her father has a mental disability that we were strongly urged not to move around. Th en he turned the lights out. makes it impossible to adequately care for a growing child. Her mother has Pitch dark. Wow. more severe problems. Th e grandparents have spent four years and several Th e guide let us sit in the darkness for a minute or so and then began hundred thousand dollars to gain legal joint custody of their grandchild. to tell the story of creation from Genesis. When he got to the “let there She lives with them and spends a couple of weekends each month with be light” part of the story, a tiny sliver of light, like a white laser beam, her mother. Th e grandparents care for her well with great love, including pierced the darkness and landed on a rock formation. paying for and overseeing special schooling she needs. Th eir plans for Th is miniscule amount of light washed away the immense darkness. a quiet, slow-paced retirement have evaporated. Th ey are living the Th e power of light over darkness had never been so palpable to me. demanding child-rearing life more conducive to 30-year-olds. Th is week’s readings speak of another people in darkness who see Th ey’d have it no other way. a great light. Matthew’s Gospel quotes Isaiah chapter 8: “Th e people Th is week’s Gospel is about Jesus’ saving grace entering into a sinful who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land world. John the Baptist recognizes his divine power as revealed by the Holy overshadowed by death light has arisen.” Matthew says that Jesus is the Spirit at his baptism. fulfi llment of this prophecy, that he is the Light that dispels the darkness. None of us has the power to bring salvation. But through our baptism Th e darkness that Jesus dispels is sin and death. His piercing light we are joined to Christ in the Holy Spirit and receive his life-giving reveals our sin, just as that tiny beam allowed me to see my hand again. compassion and strength. But his light does more than reveal. It heals, forgives, and continues to For a couple with inadequate life skills and social problems to have shine upon us, leading us into everlasting light. a baby is not an ideal situation. But too often it happens in this world. Christ’s spirit enters when someone brings an act of sacrifi cial love — as this child’s grandparents did — into troubled circumstances. Th en it truly does take away some small part of the sin of the world.

QUESTIONS: When have you witnessed someone’s Christ-like action diminishing QUESTIONS: the sin of the world? Into what present situations can you bring Jesus’ Have you ever experienced total darkness? What was it like? How is spirit and light? sin like darkness? How is forgiveness and reconciliation like light?

PAGE 22 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE Diocese Th e Gift of Priesthood

Very Rev. Stephen Berg Father Carmen Mele, Father George Monsigner Joseph A. Father Francis X. OP Th ennattil, TOR Schumacher, PA Fernandez, OFM Cap. Ministry: Vicar General and Moderator of the Ministry: Director Parish: Diocesan Ministry: Retired Vicar Ministry: Director of the Curia of Hispanic Adult Hospital Chaplain for General diocesan Cursillo Center Catechesis at the downtown Fort Worth Ordained: May 15, 1999 Catholic Center of Fort hospitals Ordained: May 25, Ordained: May 15, Worth 1957 1958 Q. How have you Ordained: May 15,1976 experienced the gift of Ordained: May 21, 1980 Q. How do you fi nd Q. How have you priesthood? Q. What do you most Christ in others? experienced the gift of Q. How can God’s desire to convey to the priesthood? A. I think mainly people better support people you serve? A. Mostly I would say in the growth of my their priests? through instruction in A. I’ve been a priest for friendships. I have A. I try to give words RCIA, in preparation 53 years. I’ve always experienced so many A. Th ey support their Father Edmundo Father Richard Villa, of comfort and hope of the sacraments, and considered this a gift new connections with priests well when they Rodriguez, SJ SM to the patients in the in the sacrament of from the Lord. A gift people by being a part of are honest and open Ministry: President of hospitals as I administer reconciliation. I also that is a call to serve. and caring about priests. their lives. Ministry: Retreat Nolan Catholic High to them the sacrament found Christ while First of all, to live out I’m really edifi ed when Director, Montserrat School, Fort Worth of the Anointing of the teaching moral ethics for my relationship with the I receive an invitation Q. What part does Retreat House Sick. I remind them that 10 years at the University Lord in a personal and to someone’s house for the celebration of the Ordained: August 23, the Lord is close to the of North Texas and deep way and to share dinner, even if I can’t Eucharist play in your Ordained: June 7, 1966 2008 people who are sick and during the three years this life with everybody go. I am called to be a fulfi llment as a priest? suff ering. I encourage I taught comparative around me — the spiritual leader of the Q. How have you Q. How can God’s them to allow the Lord religions or religions of people in Ireland where A. It is the wellspring people of God when they experienced the gift of people better support to reach out and touch the world with Sister Kay share their vocation as I was ordained, to the from which all my priesthood? their priests? them and heal them Kolb, SSND. I used to family members with me. Philippines where I spiritual energy fl ows. physically, emotionally, celebrate Mass once a was to minister for 13 A. Priesthood is about A. It is important for and spiritually. week at the Denton State years, and to here in building bridges. It’s God’s people to pray School for the mentally Texas where I was called Father Pio Maria Hoff mann, CFR about tearing down the for their priests. If we challenged, and that was to serve the bilingual (Not Pictured) walls that separate us believe prayer is eff ective also one of the ways I felt community since 1971. from God, the fears, the in our lives, which we do I saw Christ and in my I’m enjoying every Ministry: Local Servant (superior) Sacred Heart of doubts, the anger, and believe as Catholics, our prayer life both privately minute of my life of Jesus Friary, Fort Worth the disappointments, prayers are important and with my interaction ministry with the Lord which we humans to priests so they can with my brother priests. and sharing my life with Q. How do you fi nd Christ’s presence in your sometimes allow to better serve God and people wherever. parishioners? withdraw us from the the community. And Source of Life and nourishing prayer in Father Luke Robertson, TOR A. I just know He’s there. Th e Lord makes it very wholeness. It’s also about their family lives also (Not Pictured) clear that whatever we do for others, He is there. We drawing those who are encourages vocations should be treating each person with the dignity that hostile to each other to to the priesthood. Ministry: Lead case manager, Street Outreach the Lord wants us to. Jesus our Risen Lord Another way people can Father Joe Tetlow, SJ Services Team (SOS), Catholic Charities so that they may fi nd support their priests is friendship with each by sharing their lives Ministry: Director of Ordained: May 29, 1999 Father Cal Giesen, OFM other through Him. A with their pastors and Montserrat Jesuit Retreat (Not Pictured) priest is a pontifex, a priests. In sharing their House Q. How do you fi nd Christ’s presence in those you builder of bridges, one lives, they actually share serve? Ministry: St. Maximilian Kolbe Friary who reaches out to those God’s presence in their Ordained: June 15, 1960 alienated from God and lives with the priests. A. How can I count the ways! I think people are Ordained: December 19, 1947 from one another. He Th at is another way Q. What part of extraordinarily generous, kind, and giving. It always is also one who does of nourishing God’s your priestly duties humbles and amazes me how they live out Christ in Q. How do you fi nd Christ’s presence in the people his best to maintain presence in their priests. do you fi nd the most their lives. I see that all the time in the people I come you serve? those bridges which It’s very important for rewarding? across. have already been built people to share their lives A. I fi nd Christ’s presence in the people I serve through the sacraments with their priests. A. Th ey are all rewarding. Th e sacramental Editor’s Note: through my gift of faith in God and the gift of faith and especially through Th is is the last installment in an ongoing series to that individual. I believe Christ is present in him or the Eucharist. Th e task ministries, especially the featuring priests from the diff erent deaneries in her and in me. Th at’s really how I try to size up every is soul-sized, but it is an Eucharist, is a profound the diocese sharing about aspects of their ministry. human being — baby or adult, man or woman — no exciting and rewarding grace, and it’s great fun matter the color or creed — it makes no diff erence. ministry. to preach. Interviews were compiled by Jenara Kocks Burgess NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 23 Diocese

Father Jerome A. Ward (Not Pictured) We give thanks to God always for all of Retired Ordained: September 9, you, remembering you in our prayers 1967 unceasingly calling to mind your Q. What are you most work of faith and labor of love and grateful for as a priest? endurance... 1 Th essalonians 1:2 Father Francis Father José Fetzer, SJ A. I am most grateful Monsignor Michael F. Father Raphael Eagle, for the diff erent kinds Olson TOR Gillespie, SJ Ministry: Retreat of ministries I’ve been Ministry: Retreat Director at Montserrat able to do since my Ministry: Rector of Holy Ministries: Cook Father Lambert Director at Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House ordination. I’ve really, Trinity Seminary, Irving Children’s, Federal Men’s Leykam, OFM Jesuit Retreat House really been blessed by Prison, St. Bartholomew (Not Pictured) being able to work Ordained: June 3, 1994 in Fort Worth Ordained: June 14, Ordained: June 3, 1972 2008 in so many diff erent Ministry: Former ministries. I started out Q. How have you Ordained: June 3, 1967 chaplain of St. Francis Q. What do you most A. What do you most as a young priest in the experienced the gift of Village in Crowley, and want to see happen in desire to convey to your prison ministry in Texas, priesthood? Q. What do you believe currently working in the lives of those you parishioners or others and then I was in civilian you are accomplishing ministry with youth at serve? you serve? parishes for four years. A. I have experienced through your priestly Father Kyle Little Portion Hermitage I served 21 years as an the gift of priesthood ministry? and Retreat House in Walterschied A. Similarly, that they A. I see my role as a Air Force chaplain and through the people with Eureka Springs, Arkansas after that journey was whom I have served at A. Th e ministry to put into practice Jesus’ Jesuit priest as facilitating Ministry: Vocations Gospel values including the encounter between over, I went back to the my assignments since the sick has always Director; Sacramental Ordained: June 29, 1956 prison ministry for fi ve my ordination on June been a ministry of their own pursuit of God and the human Minister to parishes holiness and their person. At times years. For seven years, I 3, 1994. I have been evangelization. I meet Q. How have you in Strawn, Ranger, concern for peace and this process involves was a hospital chaplain, blessed to serve as a people in the delicate experienced the gift of Eastland, and Cisco justice values for their explaining my experience and I drove 1,000 miles parochial vicar, a pastor part of their lives — priesthood? a week to serve as the of a parish with a school, when their children neighbors. of God; and at other Ordained: May 25, 2002 moments, this means interim pastor of three a chancery offi cial, and are sick or terminal. I A. Very happily. A big walking in silence, country parishes in as a seminary formator. give them the message thing I appreciate is I Q. What do you most witnessing and sharing South Carolina. Now, God has blessed me with that Jesus lives, Jesus had a young man that desire to convey to your people’s suff ering. My I’m retired, but I help a diversity of experiences loves, and Jesus acts. I I used to take to the parishioners or others diff erent experiences of out wherever needed in priestly ministry that accentuate that Jesus is YMCA, and today he is you serve? God have been illumined in the diocese, and I have helped me to grow present in the Eucharist a priest. Helping others by the Spiritual Exercises. usually get to celebrate closer to Christ and to and the Sacrament become Franciscan A. Our heart and our To give the Spiritual Mass in Scotland, Texas realize how much I need of Reconciliation. priests and brothers and whole being is made Exercises is to relate one’s on Christmas Eve. It’s to depend on Christ to Sometimes, it’s a time to working with the poor specifi cally for God. experience of God with a real joy because I met grow in holiness. As the call people back to the are ways I’ve experienced Only Jesus, the Son of others. Although they those people when I rector of Holy Trinity Church if they have been the gift of priesthood. God who came to save Father Charles require a great amount was a young teenager Seminary I am blessed away — all of this is in In my fi rst 15 years, us, can fi ll our hearts Calabrese of preparation, directing at Sheppard Air Force to be instrumental in the context of the anxiety I worked in Monroe, to overfl owing love, the Spiritual Exercises is Base in Wichita Falls, fostering the means and that they are feeling. Louisiana, at a boys and peace, and happiness. Ministry: TCU Catholic ultimately sharing who and we’ve been able to environment through Th e future is uncertain girls grade school and Only through Christ Campus Minister one is and what one has keep in touch. Th ere which other younger with illness. Th ere is will we discover our high school and with has been a neat variety men continue to receive with others. It is sharing a great movement of true purpose in life and juvenile delinquents at Ordained: May 16, 1972 of ministries in which I the gift of the ministry of one’s experience as a evangelization at the fi nd communion with the Louisiana Training have been able to serve, priesthood from God. loved sinner with others. hospital. each other. Th e Church Institute. Th en I Q. How does your and I am most grateful as the bride of Christ is worked at the San José interaction with for that opportunity. the primary means or Mission for 10 years God’s people make Father James P. O’Toole channel by which we in San Antonio. I was your priesthood more Father George (Not Pictured) receive the grace and also chaplain of the rewarding? Curtsinger mercy (the sacraments) St. Francis Village in (Not Pictured) Parish: Retired/Ministry: Christian Foundation for necessary to know and Crowley for 11 years. I’ve A. My identity as a Children and Aging complete the mission for been a priest for 54 years priest has been formed Ministry: Chaplain, Th e which God created us. and a Franciscan for 63. and shaped by my Chapel of Christ the Ordained: May 16, 1964 relationships with Teacher - Th e College of people. Refl ecting on my St. Th omas More, Fort Q. What do you believe you are accomplishing ministerial experiences Father Jonathan Wallis, Worth through your priestly ministry? with people has caused me to rethink my own North American College Ordained: Oct. 11, A. At this very moment right now, I’m working for faith, to fi nd better ways in Rome 1952 − Incardinated: the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging. to articulate the faith, Dec. 22, 1959 It’s a Catholic sponsorship program. Every weekend, to grow in ever-new Ordained: July 7, 2007 I go out to diff erent parishes, and I ndfi sponsors appreciations of how Q. How do you nourish for children and the aging in India, Africa, the God is present in human Q. What are you most your relationship with Philippines, and Central and South America. So far, life, to increasingly trust grateful for as a priest? God? I’ve been able to fi nd 32,000 sponsors. I fi nd that it’s in God, and to become very satisfying to work for the poor. Th e sponsorships more “real” in the way I A. I’m most grateful for A. With prayer. provide education, medication, and food to the relate to and minister to just being a priest. It is poorest of the poor. I sponsor 13 kids myself. I have people. Th eir faith and something that I feel Q. How do you fi nd visited many of them, and I see what a diff erence it their life experiences have that I was called to do, Christ in others? makes. A couple of them are in college and are on enriched my faith and and it is something from their way to becoming engineers. It gives meaning to Diocese of Fort Worth my life experiences. which, personally, I have A. I make an eff ort to my ministry. 2010-2011 Seminarians received many blessings. do so. PAGE 24 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 Catholics gather at St. Patrick Cathedral Dec. 12 before dawn so they can Serenade Our Lady

By Kathy Cribari Hamer Correspondent t was nearing dawn in Downtown Fort Worth when an ensemble of seven mariachis began their serenade to Ithe Blessed Virgin Mary, and they were not performing for an audience, nor even providing a simple prelude to the approaching 5:30 a.m. Mass. Instead, the reverent musicians in their charro suits were embodying a cultural and spiritual tradition unique to Mexico. Th e serenade they sang, directly facing the statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, was not just music, but an expression of love to the Mother of God. Th eir fi rst song, at 5 a.m., was Las Mañanitas, according to Sister Laura Lara, JDA, who coordinated the Dec. 12 diocesan celebration of the Guadalupe feast, at St. Patrick Cathedral in collaboration with Joe Govea and last year's established committee volunteers. Sister Laura is also coordinator of Hispanic volunteers at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Keller. Las Mañanitas is a broad title for a kind of song, usually sung for birthdays, anniversaries, and serenades. “It is a very happy song,” Sr. Laura said. “Th e message is simple. ‘We’re here to greet you with all of our best. We bring you fl owers, and we would like you to have music from heaven.’ In Mexico it is a tradition to sing Las Mañanitas even earlier than we did — at 12 a.m.”

Th e music mariachis provide is “one means a lot to us. of our best forms of expression,” Sr. Laura “At fi rst, it was used to give a serenade by said, “to someone special and very dear, who someone courting his beloved!” Th e mariachi music later became a custom to give a serenade to mothers, especially on Mothers’ Day, and on their birthdays, Sister Laura said. “And this explains why we also do this special serenade to Our Lady of Guadalupe, our Mother. We express all of our feelings withw love and passion, through the music, The mariachi band, Águilas de México, directed by Pepe Sigala, serenades a statue of Our Lady of givingg her our best through this serenade.”s Guadalupe with LAS MAÑANITAS. Th e 2010 pre-dawn gathering anda liturgy at the cathedral tradition. Previous years had seen the faithful intense reverence for Our Lady of the representedr the third year process to an early evening diocesan Mass Americas. thet diocese provided at the convention center. Th ose processions “In Mexico, there's a popular saying,” Sr. thist particular have become individual parish traditions Laura said, “we are 100 percent Catholic and MexicanM now, but all the diff erent Our Lady of 110 percent Guadalupanos.” Guadalupe events seem to be connected by a In his homily, Bishop Vann called to single word: celebration. mind the coincidence that Our Lady of At St. Patrick, the Mass, which was Guadalupe’s feast took place on the third concelebrated by Bishop Kevin Vann, Father Sunday of Advent. “It is the Lord’s day,” he Juan Diego, CFR, and Father Leo Fisher, said, “Yet, does not Mary lead us to her Son? CFR, included a procession of matachines, Did she not say to Juan Diego, that she was who provided sacred dance for the procession the Mother of the Son of God? Th erefore it is and at the off ertory for the presentation of a special blessing to celebrate her day in the gifts. Th e rhythm of the dancers’ beaded Lord’s day.” Miguel Hernández, wearing a tilma representing St. Juan Diego, opens up his tilma, re-enacting the story costumes, coupled with rattles and drums, when the saint opend his tilma in front of the bishop of Mexico and revealed an image of Our Lady. brought a sense of the Mexican people’s CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 PAGE 25 Serenade Our Lady

"In these beautiful words of Isaiah ... do they not tell many years in advance, the story of the beautiful music that Juan Diego heard, when he was walking in Tepeyac that mor- ning? Do not the flowers of which the prophet speaks, speak to us as well, of the roses in December in Tepeyac?”

— Bishop Kevin Vann Homily for Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass, which fell on the third Sunday of Advent

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE gathered for hot chocolate, traditional Mexican pan dulce, and more dancing, by the He cited the responsorial psalm for the Ballet Folklorico. Parishioners and volunteers third Sunday of Advent, saying, “We hear had donated the refreshments, and as they a similar theme, in fact, in these beautiful were served, the faithful stood in the chilly words of Isaiah, and do they not tell many morning air, joining one more time in happy ABOVE: Bishop Kevin years in advance, the story of the beautiful worship. Vann celebrates the Mass music that Juan Diego heard, when he was Th e huge portrait of Our Lady of with Fr. Leo Fisher, CFR, walking in Tepeyac that morning? Do not Guadalupe was carried from the sanctuary (left) concelebrating, the fl owers of which the prophet speaks, and set up for display outside, in the parking speak to us as well, of the roses in December lot, where dancers performed directly for her. and Deacon Len Sanchez in Tepeyac?” Th e cultural reverence for the Blessed assisting. Bishop Vann, with his own special Virgin Mary, Sr. Laura said, remembering devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe, her own history, “is so important in Mexico. RIGHT: Gifts brought delighted the assembly when he proclaimed, “I am Mexican, but I am here, and to up to the altar included in Spanish, “I am not Mexican by birth have all this celebration makes me feel very flowers, produce, and nor blood, but I know I am 100 percent close to Our Lady. I am happy that it helps Guadalupano!” other Hispanic people, who are away from traditional Mexican foods After the Dec. 12 Mass, the community Mexico, feel the way I do.” and clothing.

A member of the group, Matachines, Danza de Members of Ballet Folklorico de Fort Worth, directed by Carmen Garcia, Guadalupe, directed by Yajaira Lopez, dances at Following the Dec. 12 Mass, the community gathered for hot chocolate and perform following the Mass. the Mass. traditional Mexican pan dulce, or sweet bread. Marian apparitions outside of Green Bay first in U.S. to receive approval from diocesan bishop CHAMPION, Wisconsin (CNS) As he declared, "I do hereby Bishop Ricken said the "We need this message today October 1859. She told Brise to —Bishop David L. Ricken of approve these apparitions as proclamation was a desire of many as much as they needed it 150 "gather the children in this wild Green Bay has approved the Marian worthy of belief," the congregation people. "So many of you have asked years ago; the message to proclaim country and teach them what they apparitions seen by Adele Brise in burst into applause, with many in for this in one way or another," he the Gospel, each one of us, in our should know for salvation. Teach 1859, making the apparitions of attendance moved to tears. said. "I regard this also as a simple families and in our workplace. We them their catechism, how to sign Mary that occurred some 18 miles "This is now an official declaration in that it already states need to have that same zeal for souls themselves with the sign of the northeast of Green Bay the first in declaration and an explicit what has been going on here so that Adele Brise had," he said. cross, and how to approach the the United States to receive approval recognition of what has been quietly for so many years." Catholics must provide children sacraments." of a diocesan bishop. going on in the development and "In many ways it is also a "adequate catechetical formation" Brise devoted the rest of her life Bishop Ricken made the expression of people's faith in our thank-you gift to Adele Brise, that so they understand the Gospel and to teaching children. She began a announcement in Champion during Lord Jesus," Bishop Ricken said in Belgian immigrant who came here "are able to defend and explain the community of secular Franciscans Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of his homily. "Mary always leads us to to this country. ... We owe a great teachings of the church," he added. and built a school next to the shrine. Good Help Dec. 8, the feast of the Jesus. We hold Mary in such high deal to her witness because she was The bishop's decree comes Brise's father built a small chapel Immaculate Conception. More than regard because she is the mother simple, she was uneducated in our nearly two years after he opened near the spot of the apparitions. 250 invited guests filled the shrine of our savior Jesus Christ. So she is terms today. She was a humble soul, a formal investigation into the The current chapel was chapel to hear Bishop Ricken read probably the greatest evangelist and but she was obedient." apparitions. On Jan. 9, 2009, he dedicated in 1942 under the title the official decree on the authenticity catechist who ever lived. ... She has Bishop Ricken added that the appointed three theologians to study of Our Lady of Good Help. Today, of the apparitions. He also issued a been sent out all these years since message Brise answered in teaching the case. the shrine, which sits on six acres second decree, formally approving Christ's death and resurrection to children the faith is the same Brise was 28 when Mary of farmland, receives thousands of the shrine as a diocesan shrine. proclaim this good news." message people are called to today. appeared to her three times in visitors each year. PAGE 26 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE Nuestro Pastor Habla Que la paz y la alegría de la Encarnación de Cristo esté con vosotros Queridos Hermanos y hacia una unión más profunda con su Hijo. los Estados Unidos. Este aniversario, triste y Hermanas en Cristo Otra gran solemnidad durante la trágico como es, se convierte para nosotros temporada Navideña es la Epifanía, también en un recordatorio que estamos todos l hijo de Dios se hizo conocida como la Celebración de los Tres llamados — en virtud de nuestro bautismo hombre para que el hombre Reyes Magos, que ha sido tradicionalmente — para promover, ser testigos y defender pueda llegar a ser como celebrada el 6 de enero, o sea, 12 días después la cultura de la vida. Uno de los grandes Dios”. Estas magnífi cas de Navidad. Recientemente se ha transferido acontecimientos en que participo cada año es palabras“E de San Atanasio, de su gran obra esta celebración al Segundo Domingo mi viaje a Washington, con un gran número La Encarnación, resume poderosamente el después de la Navidad. La Epifanía es una de jóvenes y otros de la diócesis, para La signifi cado de la Navidad y la celebración de de las más antiguas celebraciones cristianas. Marcha por la Vida. La marcha es una gran la Encarnación de Jesucristo. Jesús, el Hijo La palabra epifanía nos llega del griego y oportunidad en asistir a la cultura de la vida del Padre Eterno, se hace uno de nosotros en signifi ca “revelar”, y lo que celebramos es y pedir el fi n de la legalización del aborto. todo, menos en el pecado, para que la gloria que Dios se revela al hombre en Cristo. La Estoy especialmente agradecido por el grupo del hombre—creado a imagen y semejanza Epifanía, en primer lugar, se celebró en el Juventud por la vida de la Ofi cina diocesana de Dios—una vez más pueda ser revelada Oriente, donde originalmente se celebraban de católicos por el respeto por la vida, por plenamente. La Encarnación de Cristo, el cuatro epifanías o eventos reveladores en organizar un gran grupo de jóvenes y adultos pequeño bebé nacido en un establo de Belén, la vida de Cristo: el bautismo de Jesús, el para asistir a la marcha. Cada año realmente verdadera y dramáticamente cambia el curso primer milagro de Cristo en las Bodas de estoy conmovido por el abrumador apoyo por de la historia humana, pues Dios está ahora Cana, el nacimiento de Cristo y la visita la vida y el testimonio de muchos católicos, Monseñor Kevin Vann con el hombre, y nunca más se separará la de los Santos Reyes Magos. Todos estos especialmente los jóvenes de todo el país, que acontecimientos de alguna manera revelan vienen en un espíritu de communio, llenan humanidad de Dios. semejantes en todo a nosotros, excepto en la divinidad de Cristo, que es realmente el santuario de la Basílica de la Inmaculada La Encarnación de Cristo en la el pecado. Navidad nos revela dos cosas. En primer el Hijo de Dios. Es importante señalar Concepción en Washington, y oran por el lugar, revela el gran amor y misericordia —Constitución Dogmática Sobre la que la Epifanía fue la original celebración fi n del aborto y otros delitos contra la vida del Padre que envía a su único Hijo para Iglesia en el Mundo Moderno, Gaudium de la Navidad, o el nacimiento de Cristo. humana. Yo también celebraré nuestra misa revelarse plenamente a sí mismo y realizar et Spes, 22 Eventualmente, en el Occidente, la anual de Respeto por la vida en la Catedral su amoroso plan de salvación, anunciado celebración de la natividad se separó de la de San Patricio el viernes, 21 de enero a las inmediatamente después del primer pecado También es importante recordar que Navidad el 25 de diciembre, pero la fi esta de 7 p.m. Firmemente animo a las personas de de Adán y Eva. La Encarnación revela un no sólo celebramos la Encarnación en el la Epifanía permaneció como la celebración toda nuestra diócesis reunirse en un espíritu amor que es más grande que el pecado, un día de la Navidad, sino también que la de los otros tres eventos, para señalizar el de comunión, como iglesia local, para orar amor que busca y encuentra a quienes se Iglesia celebra la Encarnación de Cristo a fi nal de la temporada de Navidad. Al pasar el por el fi n del aborto y otros ataques contra la pierden. La Encarnación también revela la lo largo de la temporada Navideña que se tiempo, las otras fi estas gradualmente fueron inocente vida humana, y pedir por la gracia gran dignidad de cada persona humana, que extiende desde el día de Navidad a través separadas y, a continuación, hoy celebramos de Cristo para ser testigos y para lograr una Dios mismo se dignara a ser como nosotros de la Solemnidad del bautismo del Señor el el bautismo del Señor el domingo después de verdadera cultura de la vida, en todos los con el fi n de restaurar plenamente nuestra 9 de enero. Esta temporada litúrgica ofrece la Epifanía y las Bodas de Cana se celebran el ámbitos de nuestra sociedad, y en la cultura gran dignidad como hijos e hijas de Dios. De muchas otras fi estas y celebraciones que aún domingo siguiente. en la cual tenemos infl uencia. Podamos hecho, como nos enseña el Concilio vaticano más plenamente revelan el misterio de la La Epifanía para nosotros hoy en día responder al llamado urgente del Papa Juan II, Jesús, a través de la Encarnación, se une a Encarnación. es la celebración de la visita de los Santos Pablo II en su gran encíclica, el Evangelio de cada persona y ofrece el don de la salvación: Una de las grandes solemnidades que Reyes Magos que vinieron desde el Oriente, la Vida, a “en el nombre de Dios: respetar, cae en la temporada navideña es la de María, siguiendo la estrella de Belén, para adorar proteger, amar y servir la vida, cada vida En realidad, el misterio del hombre madre de Dios, que se celebra el 1 de enero. al niño Jesús presente ante ellos en toda humana”. sólo se esclarece en el misterio del Verbo Esta fi esta nos habla directamente sobre la su gloria. La Epifanía es cuando Cristo es Me gustaría desear a todos, a cada encarnado. Porque Adán, el primer verdad y realidad de la Encarnación, que una revelado al mundo como el Mesías, el Hijo uno de ustedes y sus familias, una Navidad hombre, era fi gura del quien había de persona, Jesucristo, es plenamente humana y de Dios. En muchas partes del mundo, como llena de bendiciones. Oro para que la paz venir (Romanos 5:14), es decir, Cristo plenamente divina, sin confusión o división. en Europa, la Epifanía se considera por lo y la alegría de la Encarnación de Cristo esté nuestro Señor. Cristo, el nuevo Adán, En otras palabras, ya que Jesús es real y menos tan importante como la Navidad y a con ustedes mientras celebramos la época en la misma revelación del misterio verdaderamente Dios, la segunda persona veces es llamada “la pequeña Navidad”, y en Navideña. del Padre y de su amor, manifi esta de la Trinidad hecha carne, entonces María, muchas culturas, siguiendo el ejemplo de los plenamente el hombre al propio hombre como la madre de Jesus, es verdaderamente Reyes Magos ofreciendo sus regalos a Cristo, y le descubre la sublimidad de su la madre de Dios. De hecho, este título se lleva a cabo el intercambio de regalos vocación. El quien "es imagen de Dios de María como madre de Dios se defi nió navideños. + Obispo Kevin W. Vann. JCD, DD invisible"(Colossians 1,15) es también en el Concilio de Éfeso en 431 A. D., en La celebración de la Encarnación Diocesis de Fort Worth el hombre perfecto, que ha devuelto a respuesta a la herejía nestoriana que separaba de Cristo en la Navidad también es un la descendencia de Adán la semejanza la humanidad y la divinidad de Jesús y recordatorio de Cristo llegando a nosotros divina, deformada por el primer pecado. erróneamente enseñaba que Jesús era un como bebé, y que, en la Anunciación del En él, la naturaleza humana asumida, hombre en quien Dios vivía, pero que no era Ángel a María, se concibió a Jesús en el no absorta, ha sido elevada también completamente Dios. El Concilio de Éfeso vientre de su Madre por obra del Espíritu en nosotros a dignidad sin igual. El defi nió que Jesús poseía dos naturalezas, Santo. Jesús, a través de la Encarnación, Hijo de Dios con su encarnación se ha la divina y la humana, y que ambas están redimió la naturaleza humana desde el unido, en cierto modo, con todo hombre. unidas plenamente en la singular persona momento de la concepción hasta la muerte. Trabajó con manos de hombre, pensó de Jesucristo. Por lo tanto, María es Mientras avanzamos desde la Navidad hacia con inteligencia de hombre, obró con verdaderamente la Th eotokos, o “Portadora el Año Nuevo, es importante recordar que el voluntad de hombre, amó con corazón de de Dios”. Esta solemnidad nos recuerda que 22 de enero conmemoramos el aniversario hombre. Nacido de la Virgen María, se todo lo que creemos sobre María tiene que de la decisión de la Corte Suprema conocida hizo verdaderamente uno de los nuestros, ver con Cristo, y que María siempre nos lleva como Roe v. Wade, que legalizó el aborto en NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE PAGE 27 Noticias de la Iglesia La Virgen de Guadalupe es honrada en la Catedral de San Patricio, en medio de música de mariachis, bailes de matachines, y danzas folklóricas

Reportaje y fotografías por Kathy Cribari Hamer Arriba a la izquierda: Los mariachis le dan una serenata a la Virgen de Guadalupe , parados frente a la estatua a la entrada de la catedral. staba llegando el amanecer en el centro de Fort La Misa en St. Patrick, concelebrada por el obispo Kevin Arriba: El Obispo Vann celebra la Misa de celebración de la fi esta, Worth cuando un conjunto de siete mariachis Vann, el padre Juan Diego, CFR, y el padre Leo Fisher, CFR, concelebrada por el padre Leo Fisher, CFR. comenzó su serenata a la santísima virgen María, incluyó una procesión de matachines, quienes realizaron pero no tocaba para una audiencia, ni tampoco bailes sagrados para la procesión y durante el ofertorio, con proveíaE un simple preludio a la misa de las 5:30 a.m. que se la presentación de regalos. El ritmo de los disfraces perlados acercaba. En vez, los músicos devotos, en sus trajes de charro, de los bailadores, junto con sus cascabeles y tambores, personifi caban una tradición cultural y espiritual, única de transmitió el sentido de la intensa reverencia de la población México. La serenata que cantaban— directamente frente a la mexicana para con Nuestra Señora de las Américas. estatua de Nuestra Señora de la Guadalupe—no solamente “En México”, dijo la hermana Laura, “decimos era música, sino también era una expresión de amor a la que somos 100 por ciento católicos pero 110 por ciento madre de Dios. guadalupanos”. Su primera canción, a las 5 a.m., fue Las mañanitas, En su homilía, el obispo Vann hizo recordar la de acuerdo a la hermana Laura Lara, quien coordinó la coincidencia que la fi esta de Nuestra Señora de la Guadalupe celebración diocesana de la fi esta de la Guadalupe, el 12 de tomó lugar en el tercer domingo de Adviento. “Es el día del diciembre, en la Catedral de San Patricio. La hermana Laura Señor”, comentó. “Sin embargo, ¿no nos lleva María a su también es la coordinadora de voluntarios Hispanos en la Hijo? ¿No le dijo a Juan Diego que era la madre del Hijo de Dos matachines y un joven vestido de San Juan Diego reza la oración del parroquia de Keller, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Dios? Por eso es una bendición celebrar su día en el día del Señor con la asamblea. Las Mañanitas es un título general para un tipo de Señor”. canción, casi siempre cantada para los cumpleaños, los Citó el salmo responsorial para el tercer domingo de aniversarios, y las serenatas. “Es una canción muy alegre”, Adviento, diciendo, “Escuchamos un tema similar, de hecho, dijo la hermana Laura, “y bien larga. Su mensaje es simple. en las bellas palabras de Isaías, y no nos dice—con muchos ‘Estamos aquí para felicitarte con lo mejor que tenemos. Te años de antemano—el cuento de la bella música que oyó traemos fl ores, y queremos que tengas la música del cielo’. En Juan Diego, cuando caminaba a Tepeyac esa mañana? ¿No México, es tradición cantar Las mañanitas aún más temprano nos recuerdan a las fl ores de las cuales habla el profeta, las que lo hicimos nosotros—a las 12 a. m.” rosas de diciembre en Tepeyac?” La música de los mariachis es “una de nuestras mejores El obispo Vann, con su propia devoción especial a formas de expresión”, comentó la hermana Laura, “para Nuestra Señora de la Guadalupe, maravilló a los feligreses alguien especial, muy querido, que signifi ca mucho para cuando proclamó, en español, “No soy mexicano ni por nosotros. nacimiento ni por sangre, ¡pero sé que soy 100 por ciento Bailarines del Ballet Folclórico continúan la celebración luego de la Misa, “Al principio, los jóvenes la usaban para cantarle una guadalupano!” al frente de la Catedral, donde los feligreses fueron convidados con serenata a su enamorada! La música mariachi luego se Después de la Misa del 12 de diciembre, la comunidad se chocolate caliente, café, y pan dulce. convirtió en costumbre para dar serenatas a las madres, reunió para tomar chocolate caliente, el pan dulce mexicano especialmente en el día de las Madres, y en su cumpleaños, tradicional, y disfrutar de más bailes, esta vez por el Ballet explicó la hermana Laura. Folclórico. Los feligreses y voluntarios habían donado “Y esto entonces explica por qué también hacemos esta aperitivos y, mientras se servían, estuvieron a la intemperie, serenata especial para Nuestra Señora de la Guadalupe, a pesar del frío, reuniéndose una vez más para una adoración nuestra Madre. Expresamos nuestros sentimientos con amor feliz. y pasión, a través de la música, y de paso dándole, con la La pintura gigante de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe fue serenata, lo mejor que tenemos”. cargada desde el santuario y puesta afuera en exposición, en el La reunión antes del amanecer y la liturgia en la estacionamiento, donde los bailadores danzaban directamente catedral representa el tercer año que la diócesis ha honrado para ella. esta tradición mexicana. Años anteriores habían visto a una “La reverencia cultural para con la santísima virgen procesión de fi eles, yendo a una misa diocesana durante el María”, dijo la hermana Laura, recordándose de su propia atardecer, en el centro de convenciones. Esas procesiones se historia, “es muy importante en México”. han convertido en tradiciones de parroquias individuales hoy “Soy mexicana, pero aquí estoy, y viendo toda esta día, aunque todos los diferentes eventos de Nuestra Señora de celebración me hace sentir muy cerca de nuestra Señora. la Guadalupe parecen estar conectados por una sola palabra: Estoy contenta de que pueda ayudar a otras personas Otro grupo femenino juvenile del Ballet Folclórico danza al amanecer en celebración. hispanas, quienes están lejos de México, sentirse como yo”. Fort Worth. PAGE 28 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS ISSUE Noticias de la Iglesia Arzobispo García Siller instalado como sexto arzobispo de San Antonio Por Jordan McMorrough Redactor, Today's Catholic Periódico del Arquidiócesis de San Antonio Catholic News Service

idiendo a los católicos unirse Pcontra “la ignorancia, el temor y la inseguridad” que (CNS photo/Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express) “alimentan el racismo y el Arriba: El arzobispo abraza al cardinal Francis George, arzobispo de Chicago, bajo quien el arzobispo García Siller se desempeña como Obispo auxiliar. odio hacia el forastero”, el A la derecha: El apenas ordenado arzobispo García Siller sonríe mientras se prepara a arzobispo Gustavo García recibir la aprobación de 1,500 personas congregadas para la ceremonia de instalación. Como arzobispo de San Antonio, él es el Arzobispo metropolitano para la diócesis de Siller fue instalado el 23 Fort Worth, así como para las diócesis de Dallas, Amarillo, Lubbock, San Angelo, El Paso, de noviembre como el y Laredo. sexto arzobispo de San nombrado arzobispo coadjutor de desafi antemente nuestra propia Los Ángeles. Es uno de 26 obispos postura, sin buscar terreno común Antonio. hispanos activos en los Estados con los demás”. Unidos. Miembro de la orden religiosa Su padre de 76 años de edad, En su homilía, el arzobispo Misioneros del Espíritu Santo, el Gustavo García Suárez, y su madre García Siller dijo que el mensaje arzobispo García Siller hizo un de 75 años, María Cristina Siller cristiano es contracultural y “puede llamado a los católicos de San de García, junto con todos sus ser profundamente inquietante y Antonio “a estar llenos del Espíritu hermanos y las familias inmediatas hasta amenazador para algunos”. y a ser misioneros en el mundo, de ellos, asistieron a la Misa “Vivimos en una nación y liderados por el Espíritu”. (CNS photo/Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express) solemne de instalación y recepción región profundamente divididas, Entre las 1,500 personas en la iglesia de St. Mark the donde la noción del amor entre presentes en la Misa de instalación Antonio de 1979 al 2004. Católico Mexicano-Americano, Evangelist en San Antonio. hermanos podría parecer curiosa estaban el arzobispo Gómez; los Entre los visitantes participaron en la Liturgia de la Nacido en San Luis Potosi, e ingenua” dijo. “A veces los cardenales Francis E. George de concelebrando estaban el hermano Palabra. México, el arzobispo de 54 años es problemas del mundo, y en Chicago y Daniel N. DiNardo de del arzobispo García Siller, el padre La noche anterior a su el mayor de 15 hijos. nuestros mismos hogares y familias, Galveston-Houston; el arzobispo Eugene García Siller, sacerdote instalación el arzobispo García Obispo auxiliar de Chicago podrían parecer tan enormes Christophe Pierre, nuncio papal en San Luis Potosi. La hermana Siller participó en una vigilia desde el 2003, el arzobispo García que nos tientan a simplemente ante México; y el arzobispo Myryam García Siller, su hermana, especial de oración en la plaza Siller es sucesor del arzobispo Jose retirarnos internamente. jubilado Patrick F. Flores, quien y Alejandro Siller, un primo que principal frente a la Catedral San H. Gómez, quien en abril fue ... O podríamos demarcar dirigió la Arquidiócesis de San está en la facultad del Colegio Fernando.

Mecanismos para reportar la conducta sexual inapropiada Empezando una vida nueva comenzará el Si usted o alguien que conozca es víc- ■ llamar al número de emergencia para tima de conducta sexual inapropiada el abuso sexual: (817) 560-2452, por parte de cualquier persona que Ext. 900 24 de enero, en la iglesia Todos los Santos trabaje para la iglesia, sea voluntario, ■ o llamar al Centro Católico al empleado, o miembro del clero, Empezando una vida nueva es compartir destrezas de superación 24 de enero, de las 7 p.m. a las 9 número: (817) 560-2452, ext. 102 y que otras personas han aprendido, p.m. en el nuevo salón parroquial puede reportarlo de las siguientes preguntar por el canciller/moderador un grupo de apoyo para personas maneras: de la curia, el padre Stephen Berg. encontrar nuevos amigos/as de la iglesia Todos los Santos, que están pasando por el dolor de Mecanismo para reportar abuso que caminarán con usted hacia 214 NW 20th St., Fort Worth. ■ llamar a Judy Locke, Coordinadora una separación, un divorcio, o la Llamar al Ministerio de familias el futuro, perdonar, adquirir Si desea inscribirse o desea más de asistencia para víctimas, al número muerte de su cónyuge. El grupo (817) 560-2452, Ext. 201, o, mandarle de Texas Servicios de protección se reúne una vez por semana por aceptación y más. Empezando una información, hablar con Carmen correo electrónico a jlocke@fwdioc. (Servicios de protección de niños) al diez semanas, y su propósito es de vida nueva comenzará el lunes, Zacarías al (682) 472-8517. org número:(800) 252-5400. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 PAGE 29 Catholic Charities opens 'Percy's House' for children in foster care By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen desks located in a study area, the these men, and I cannot say enough Correspondent dwelling also features a large living about their courage, faith, and A warm bed, home-cooked room and spacious backyard. leadership.” meals, and creature comforts like Kristy Brown, Catholic Col. Purcell demonstrated picking up the morning newspaper Charities director of development, some of that faith and leadership are some of the everyday pleasures said children placed in the home when one of Yuill’s children was Col. Robert “Percy” Purcell missed are either children whose parents having trouble in high school. as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. the United Nations has been unable “Percy had a couple of ‘come After the enemy shot down the to locate and they have been killed to Jesus’ meetings with him,” the fighter pilot’s F-109 in July 1965, he or have been presumed to have father of seven remembers, “and it spent seven and a half years inside been killed, or, she said, they’ve made an impact.” the infamous Hanoi Hilton where been separated from their parents Yuill wasn’t surprised when he was imprisoned and tortured for different reasons. The agency that same youngster, now grown, Photo Courtesy of Catholic Charities with other American soldiers. has an agreement with the State The Purcell and Yuill families gather at Percy's House. suggested naming the new foster care So when the Yuill family Department to help resettle minors home in honor of the family friend. of Fort Worth dedicated the from war-torn countries who no fill a need.” house for Col. Purcell was an idea Dedicated to the military hero on International Foster Care House longer have a parent or guardian. Longtime supporters of that came while the 3,000-square- Sept. 22, Catholic Charities’ new they built for Catholic Charities Catholic Charities is currently Catholic Charities, John Yuill, and foot house was under construction. foster care house has a cornerstone in honor of the late Vietnam responsible for 27 children living in his wife, Rose, have always been Yuill and Purcell were long-time that reads, “Bob ‘Percy’ Purcell, veteran, the gesture seemed entirely the Tarrant County area under these impressed by the agency’s vision and friends who shared common POW N. Vietnam 71/2 years. He appropriate. Building a shelter for circumstances. accomplishments. When he served interests. Both were Catholic, was one of a kind.” A metal sign over young, orphaned refugees who The International Foster Care as campaign coordinator for United enjoyed playing doubles tennis every the door welcomes visitors with the have survived the perils of war is House is the first of its kind in the Way of Tarrant County after retiring Tuesday, and experienced life as words, “Percy’s House.” something the deceased POW could diocese and may become a model from the military in 1979, Yuill met POWs during the Vietnam War. The development director for appreciate, says his longtime friend for future projects. fundraising goals by taking potential The two met at Carswell Air Force Catholic Charities says the house Lt. Col. John Yuill. “It’s non-traditional in respect donors on a tour of the Panther Boys’ Base after the war ended. exemplifies the agency’s mission “It’s giving war-torn orphans to foster care,” Brown admits. “But Club and Catholic Charities. Both Yuill became a “short-time” statement. Materials used to build the opportunity to live the it allows us to keep sibling groups organizations were examples of the POW after his B-52 was shot down the home, as well as the furnishings American Dream, and that would together.” work achieved with United Way over Hanoi on Dec. 22, 1972. A placed inside the rooms, were make Percy proud,” Yuill explains. A member of the Yuill family, dollars. peace treaty between the U.S. and donated by different companies and “The house will go a long way in who does not want to be identified, “They were no frills operations North Vietnam guaranteed his individuals. Catholic Charities did providing children stability.” approached Catholic Charities housed in a spartan building but release three months later. not spend one cent on the project. Located in Southwest Fort about donating a custom-built home with tons of activity,” he remembers. “There is no way to compare “Our mission statement says we Worth, the four-bedroom foster 18 months ago. When a family member myself to those 'real' POWs who serve those in need and call others care house will accommodate six “When presented with this gift, announced plans to build a home were prisoners for many years,” he of good will to do the same,” Brown children from age seven to 17 as we wanted to utilize it in the best for a worthy cause, the former said in a brief biography written for explains. “So the completion of this well as two foster parents. Furnished way possible,” she added. “Providing United Way booster suggested the Homecoming II Project. “But home was truly a mission moment with a donated piano and individual foster care for young refugees will Catholic Charities. Naming the I am honored to be associated with for us.” Real St. Nicholas still leaving imprint on Orthodox and Catholic Alaska ANCHORAGE, Alaska (CNS) Iliamna, and Nondalton. The oldest that he later used to support the his feast day (Dec. 6) to Christmas — St. Nicholas, from whom the of these is St. Nicholas Russian needy, sick, and suffering of Myra, links the man to the tradition of character of Santa Claus comes, Orthodox Church in Juneau, part of modern-day Turkey. There, gift-giving. In many countries, Dec. looms large in Alaska where multiple established in 1894. he was appointed bishop while still a 6 is traditionally one of exchanging Catholic and Orthodox churches According to its pastor, Father young man. presents. This custom was brought bear the third-century saint's name. Simeon Johnson, the church received He suffered persecution and to the United States by Dutch His generosity and kindness to its name from native Tlingit elders. imprisonment under the Roman Protestants of New Amsterdam children is legendary, and veneration The son of a community leader went Emperor Diocletian and is said to who painted the saint as a Nordic of the saint spans 1,700 years. to San Francisco where he was to be have attended the Council of Nicea magician — Sinter Klaas. "St. Nicholas is next to the baptized. While he was gone, several in 325. St. Nicholas died in Myra in In the present day, Orthodox Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist people had dreams of a bearded, 346. In 1087, in advance of Muslim churches honor the feast of St. in devotion and veneration," said balding, white-haired man. invaders, sailors spirited away the Nicholas with various celebrations, Father James Barrand, pastor of St. When the young man returned, saint's remains to Bari, Italy, where including traditional songs and a visit Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic he brought an image of St. Nicholas. they are today. For this reason, he is from St. Nicholas to the children. Church in Anchorage. After the elders recognized it as the also known as Nicholas of Bari. In Catholic circles, John Like the Russian Orthodox, one from the dreams, the church The historical facts of the life Michalski, cantor and longtime most Byzantine Catholic Churches received its name and more than 700 of St. Nicholas are both scanty and parishioner at St. Nicholas of Myra contain icons of St. Nicholas. Cathedral of the Nativity in Tlingit people were baptized there. disputed, but the many legends and in Anchorage, dressed as the sainted Known in the West as the downtown Juneau, said there are St. Nicholas Catholic Church in folk tales associated with him are bishop on the evening of Dec. 11 and patron of children, St. Nicholas is many icons and images of St. North Pole, Alaska, received its name numerous. The most widely known received children and their gifts to seen in the East primarily as the Nicholas on fishing boats and with help from the Catholic Church story has the good saint dropping honor the generosity of their patron. patron of sailors, based on accounts other sailing vessels in Alaska and Extension Society, which helped bags of gold through an open The gifts were then given to Clare of his calming the seas during his elsewhere. build the church. The town which window to an impoverished father House shelter for homeless mothers return from a pilgrimage in the Holy According to Father Michael bears the name of the traditional of three daughters to pay for their and children. Land and his appearance to storm- Oleksa, an Orthodox priest who home of Santa Claus attracts tourists, dowries, thus preventing their being As Dcn. Rohrbacher said, the tossed sailors off the coast of Lycia. is rector of St. Alexis Church and and many photograph the church sold into a life of prostitution. celebration of the life of St. Nicholas, These miracles were related chancellor of the Orthodox Diocese and its statue of Santa kneeling and Variations have the money whether on his feast day or in across the world, especially by of Sitka, Anchorage, and Alaska, praying at the feet of the infant Jesus. dropping into shoes or stockings relation to Christmas, is "a real call missionaries to Russia. St. Nicholas is more churches in the Orthodox St. Nicholas of Myra was born drying near the fireplace, resulting in to be advocates for those who are the patron of Russia and many cities tradition are named for St. Nicholas to wealthy parents in the Greek the characterization of Santa Claus as vulnerable." He is a saint both the and towns throughout the world. than for any other saint. colony of Patara in A.D. 270. His the quintessential gift-giver. East and West share, "a saint from an Deacon Charles Rohrbacher, In Alaska, such churches can be parents died while he was a child, Stories of the saint's aid to undivided Church whose feast comes an iconographer at the Catholic found in Nikolski, Chignik, Tatitlik, leaving him a considerable fortune children and the close proximity of early in Advent." PAGE 30 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 Johnson… “I had such great support from my teachers and the FROM PAGE 32 staff,” Johnson reflects. “I didn’t realize it at the time, Schools banquet are familiar with his work. For the past 10 but they really were an extended family to me as I was years, Big Bad Wolf has crafted the fi lm tribute to local schools growing up.” that is shown during the dinner. Johnson’s assistance in disseminating the message and mission of Catholic education is invaluable in today’s high- tech marketplace, according to Superintendent of Catholic Schools Don Miller. “Not only is he generous in producing the videos, but he’s become an active advocate for Catholic schools through his creative energy, his passion for Catholic education, and his support of our eff orts,” Miller said. A graduate of Little Rock’s ABOVE: Chuck Johnson edits videos at his desk. Our Lady of Holy Souls Elementary School and Catholic RIGHT: Johnson relaxes on the golf course with his old teacher from High School for Boys, Johnson Arkansas, Michael Moran, whom he still keeps in contact with. credits his value-based education (PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHUCK JOHNSON) for the personal and professional success he’s achieved. He gave Holy Souls Catholic School was great therapy folk Masses. “I still play the guitar and love it. One of the his children, Alex and Brian, the same opportunity by sending for me.” connections I have to the Church is through music as liturgy.” them to St. Rita and Nolan Catholic High School. His mother was given a huge tuition break and would In a similar way, the innovative use of technology can “Catholic schools off er a well-rounded education and later become the school’s secretary. Th e nuns also helped the reach today’s young people. Th e “under 30” crowd has grown exposure to the arts, but the primary advantage is how they struggling family by giving the youngsters leftover cheese and up with the Internet, computers, smart phones, texting, develop the soul,” Johnson explains. “Th rough religion class butter at the end of the school year. iPODS, and 500 channels of TV programming. and regular Mass participation, Catholic schools ingrain “I had such great support from my teachers and the “Th ey are accustomed to instant and continuous access to ethics and benevolence into each child.” staff ,” Johnson refl ects. “I didn’t realize it at the time, but information. So to communicate with the younger generation, Classroom discussions on compassion and charity are they really were an extended family to me as I was growing the Church will need to keep up with the times,” argues something the cradle Catholic has never forgotten. Johnson up.” Johnson, who graduated from the University of Arkansas with still remembers his fi rst experience with homelessness during a Catholic educators also encouraged his creative abilities. a degree in radio/TV/fi lm. “Video is one the most eff ective seventh grade fi eld trip. Sixth grade teacher Paula Jegley recognized the diff erent ways to do that.” “Th e nuns packed us into a bus, and we went to an area talents of each student and would persuade them to enter Th e visual medium can entertain or persuade and is of town on the south side of Little Rock Airport where people competitions. available to anyone with an Internet connection. without adequate housing would set up cardboard homes,” he “She noticed writing was one of my strengths,” says “Videos give the same message every time,” Johnson recalls. Johnson, who remembers submitting a slogan for a city-wide says, pointing out the benefi t of repeatability. “In a diocese as Students later collected coats and clothing for a shelter beautifi cation contest. widespread as Fort Worth, it’s important to deliver the same located near the makeshift, cardboard city. Th e 11-year-old was treated to an awards banquet and accurate information everywhere.” “To this day I have an image in my mind of that day and got his picture in the paper when his entry, “Clean Up Today Th e founder of Big Bad Wolf Creative Group says using how lucky my schoolmates and I were to live in nice, warm for a More Beautiful Tomorrow,” received an honorable his audio/visual skills to promote the ministry of Catholic houses,” he adds. mention. schools is a way of giving back. Ensuring a faith-based Other lessons on kindness hit closer to home. Johnson Another teacher gave her seventh and eighth grade education for other youngsters is a deeply-felt, personal grew up in a broken family. His parents divorced in 1963 students guitar lessons. obligation. when he was six and his sister was a newborn. “Sr. Maureen was really ‘hip’ and introduced us to the “It’s important to give back to my Church through talent, “Divorce wasn’t a common occurrence back then, guitar,” says Johnson, who would use his newfound skill with treasure, and time,” he says. “I think the nuns, priests, and lay especially in a Catholic household,” he admits, “so entering the instrument to perform during the school’s contemporary teachers I had did a pretty good job ingraining that in me!” Pope says Catholic newspapers have 'irreplaceable' role By John Thavis media often reflect a skeptical and social questions." irreplaceable formative function" their faith in their work. Their Catholic News Service relativistic attitude toward truth, the The pope said the printed in the education of "critical and success as Catholic communicators VATICAN CITY — Pope Church knows that people need the newspaper, because of its simplicity Christian consciences," he said. will depend above all on their Benedict XVI said the Catholic full truth brought by Christ. and widespread distribution, The pope said Catholic personal relationship with Christ, press has an irreplaceable role in "The mission of the church remains an effective way of journalists should give witness to he said. forming Christian consciences and consists in creating the conditions spreading news about local diocesan reflecting the church's viewpoint on so that this meeting with Christ events and developments, including contemporary issues. can be realized. Cooperating in this charity initiatives. &10#6';1748'*+%.' Despite the crisis in print media task, the communications media As "newspapers of the people," QHHGT HQTVJQUGKPPGGF today, the Catholic newspaper still are called to serve the truth with he said, Catholic papers can also JQRG has a vital role to play in diocesan courage, to help public opinion see favor real dialogue between different communications, the pope said. and read reality from an evangelical social sectors and debate among 1-888-317-SVDP He made the remarks Nov. 26 to viewpoint," he said. people of different opinions. www.svdpfw.org members of the Italian Federation of A primary task of the Catholic "By doing this, Catholic (TGGVQYKPI6CZFGFWEVKDNG Catholic Weeklies, which represents newspaper, he said, is to "give voice newspapers not only fulfill the 'RQDWH\RXUYHKLFOHWR5V8KPEGPVFG2CWNDQGVXSSRUWRXUPLVVLRQRIOHQGLQJ 188 Catholic newspapers. to a point of view that reflects important task of providing DKHOSLQJKDQGWRWKRVHLQQHHG+DYH\RXUYHKLFOHWLWOHLQKDQGZKHQ\RXFDOO HABAKKUK AND BEL AND THE DRAGON − 4WEEK SERIES Each Thursday through March 31, 6:30-8:30 Ministry off ering tools to rediscover a loving marriage relationship. for Old Testament Study program - Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 St. Paul Church, 5508 Black Oak Ln., River Oaks. For information, contact information, call (817) 560-3300 or visit the retrouvialle website at www. 7 - 8:30 p.m. Stephanie Ayala at (817) 239-1297 or [email protected], or Dr. Dianne retrouvaille.org. All inquiries are kept confi dential. St. Andrew School Library, 3304 Dryden Rd., Fort Worth. For information, Garcia at (817) 201-3656 or [email protected]. call the Pastoral Center at (817) 927-5383. RACHEL’S VINEYARD WEEKEND RETREAT GRIEF SHARE AND GRIEF SHARE FOR KIDS GS4K This is a confi dential retreat. For information, call (817) 923-4757. Each Thursday through March 31, 6:30-8:30 4 NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING St. Paul Church, 5508 Black Oak Ln., River Oaks. For information, contact 7 p.m. Deacon Ron Aziere at (817) 738-9925 or [email protected], or call the parish 22 BILINGUAL ROE MEMORIAL MASS AND MARCH Classes in the sympto-thermal method of natural family planning. offi ce at (817) 738-9925. 12 p.m. A Couple to Couple League course will begin at St. Peter the Apostle Concelebrated by Bishop Kevin Farrel, diocese of Dallas, and Bishop Kevin Church, 1201 S. Cherry Lane, White Settlement. To register and for more 10 Vann, diocese of Fort Worth, Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe, information, contact Bill and Mary Kouba at (817) 370-9193. Visit www. MEN’S MONTHLY DISCERNMENT 2215 Rose Ave., Dallas. For information, contact Chanacee Ruth Killgore at ccldfw.org for more class dates and information Second Monday of each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Single men ages 16- (817) 560-2452, ext. 257 . 50 ; St. Patrick Cathedral, 1206 Throckmorton St., Fort Worth. For informa- tion, contact Father Kyle Walterscheid at (817) 560-3300 ext. 110. 5 24TH ANNUAL CATHOLIC SCHOOLS BANQUET CONTEMPLATIVE OUTREACH PRAYER WORKSHOP Social hour 6 p.m.; Dinner 7 p.m. 9 a..m. - 4 p.m. 11 Fort Worth Convention Center Ballroom, 1201 Houston St., Fort Worth. St. Joseph Church, 600 S. Jupiter Rd., Richardson. For information, visit WOMEN’S MONTHLY DISCERNMENT For information, contact Tessy Ross at (817) 560-3300, ext. 280 or visit the www.cellofpeace.com or call (972) 722-6029. Registration deadline, Jan. 29. Second Tuesday of each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Single women ages diocesan website at www.fwdioc.org.. 16-50 ; St. Patrick Cathedral, 1206 Throckmorton St., Fort Worth. For infor- mation, contact Father Kyle Walterscheid at (817) 560-3300 ext. 110. 6 HIKE FOR LIFE NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Registration: 1:30 - 2 p.m.; Beginning Ceremony: 2 - 2:30 p.m.; 1 p.m. 15 Kickoff : 2:30 p.m. St. Stephen Church, 1802 Bethel Rd., Weatherford. For A Couple to Couple League course will begin at Sacred Heart High School BISHIOP VANN TO SPEAK AT AHAVATH SHALOM, JEWISH SYNA information or to register, go to www.hikeforlifetexas.com. in the library, 614 Endres St., Muenster. To register and for more informa- GOGUE tion, contact Scott and Vickie Green at (940) 759-4475. Visit www.ccldfw. 1 p.m. 23 org for more class dates and information Ahavath Shalom Synagogue, 4050 S. Hulen St., Fort Worth. All are invited. NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING More information is available on page 7 of this issue of the North Texas 12 p.m. Catholic. Classes in the sympto-thermal method of natural family planning. 11-13 MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER A Couple to Couple League course will begin at Holy Trinity Mission, 800 Weekend Retreat, Catholic Renewal Center, 4305 Bridge St., Fort Worth. For 25TH ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MASS High Crest Dr., Azle. To register and for more information, contactKevin and information, visit the website at www.northtexasmarriageencouer.org, or 7 p.m. Michelle Vina at (940) 433-5664.. Visit www.ccldfw.org for more class dates call Kathy and Terry Telger at (817) 294-2749. St. Patarick Cathedral, 1206 Throckmorton St., Fort Worth. Bishop Kevn and information Vann will be the celebrant and Bishop Martin D. Holley, auxiliary bishop of Washington, D.C. will be the homilist. For information, call (817) 560-3300, 12 ext. 254 27 PURE REALITY YOUTH RALLY FORT WORTH DIOCESAN MINISTRY TO PERSONS WITH SAME SEX 2:30 - 9 p.m. ATTRACTION Metro Center, 1501 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington. For information, contact 15-16 7 p.m. Sue Laux at (817) 939-8595 THE INCARNATE WORD AND BLESSED SACRAMENT SISTERS Catholic Renewal Center, 4503 Bridge St., Fort Worth. For information, COME AND SEE WEEKEND contact Father Warren Murphy at (817) 919-1122 or Dorene Rose at (817) Discernment weekend for women ages 18 through 50. Incarnate Word 329-7370. 24-27 Convent in Victoria, Texas. For information, call (361) 575-7111 or e-mail TEXAS MISSION CONFERENCE  FOCUS ON YOUTH IN MISSION [email protected] or [email protected]. Hotel Trinity,2000 Beach St., Fort Worth. For information contact Alfonso 28 Mirabal at (214) 821-4501 or Fr. Gerry Kelly at (713) 529-1912. To register FAMILY MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR UNBORN BABIES online visit www.texasmissioncouncil.org 21 Naming Ceremony 6:30 p.m. − Mass 7 p.m. ANNUAL RESPECT LIFE MASS St. Andrew Church, 3717 Stadium Dr., Fort Worth. For information, contact 7 p.m. Alice Curran at (817) 927-5383 or [email protected]. 25 St. Patrick Cathedral, 1206 Throckmorton St., Fort Worth. For information, JOHN MICHAEL TALBOT − MUSIC, MEDITATION, PRAYER contact Chanacee Ruth Killgore at (817) 560-2452, ext. 257. 7 p.m. 28-30 St. Vincent de Paul Church, 5819 W. Pleasant Ridge Rd., Arlington. For infor- BEGINNING EXPERIENCE WEEKEND mation, call (817) 478-8206. Catholic Renewal Center, 4503 Bridge St., Fort Worth. For information, call (972) 601-4091 or e-mail the DFW Beginning Experience Team at dfwbe@ hotmail.com. Additional information on the program may be found on www.beginningexperiencedfw.org or www.beginningexperience.org. Offi cial Assignments The following assignments have been made by Bishop Kevin Vann: Rev. Msgr. Michael Olson, rector of Holy Trinity Seminary, Irving, has been assigned Rev. Albert Francis Kanjiranthumkal, HGN, upon presentation of his religious superior, as Episcopal Vicar for Moral Th eology/Bioethical concerns, in accord with all rights and has been as priest in residence at Sacred Heart Parish, Wichita Falls, and pastoral provisions of the Canons 476-481, and those of the Pastoral Handbook of the Diocese assistance of Sacred Heart Parish, Seymour; St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, of Fort Worth, eff ective November 17, 2010. Megargel; St. Joseph Parish, Rhineland; and Santa Rosa Parish, Knox City, eff ective, Jan. Rev. Joy Joseph, TOR, has been assigned as Promoter of Justice, in accord with all the 1, 2011. rights and provisions of Canons 1430-1437. Rev. Pablo Jaramaillo, OFM Cap., upon presentation of his religious superior has been Rev. Emmanuel Lewis, has been assigned as assisting priest in residence at Holy Cross assigned as parochial vicar of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Fort Worth, in accord Parich, Th e Colony, in accord with all rights and provisions of the Canons 545-552, and with all rights and provisions of the Canons 545-552 and those of the Pastoral Handbook those of the Pastoral Handbook of the Diocese of Fort Worth, eff ective Jan. 1, 2011. of the Diosese of Fort Worth, eff ective Nov. 15, 2010. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, JANUARY, 2011 / CHRISTMAS, 2010 PAGE 32 Good Newsmaker The Catholic Schools Office will present the Diocesan Leadership Award to Chuck Johnson, co-owner of the Big Bad Wolf Creative Group, for his work

Behind the Scenesin support of the diocese and Catholic schools at its annual banquet Jan. 22

By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen Correspondent

huck Johnson credits the 12 years spent in Catholic schools for shaping his character, but it was an outing to a children’s TV show Cthat inspired his career. Th e Little Rock, Arkansas, native was just seven years old when his parents took him to a taping of Bozo the clown at KATV-TV. While the other youngsters watched the slapstick antics of the popular, orange-haired character, Johnson was mesmerized by what was going on behind the scenes. “I was more interested in the studio technicians who were working the lights and cameras,” says the self-described geek who grew up liking science, electronics, and computers.

His grandparents claimed his honored for his extensive working penchant for math and science was relationship with the Diocese of Photo courtesy of Chuck Johnson due to the family bloodline. Albert Fort Worth and Catholic Schools Einstein is a distant cousin of his Offi ce. Co-owner of the Big Bad Chuck Johnson, co-owner of Big Bad Wolf Creative Group, has produced video programming for the diocese and maternal grandfather. Wolf Creative Group, Johnson diocesan schools for the last 10 years. He will be honored with the Diocesan Leadership Award at the 24th annual On January 22, Johnson can and his wife, Deborah, produced add another interesting footnote to video programming for the historic Celebration of Catholic Schools banquet Saturday, Jan. 22. the family history when he receives 2001 Synod, Safe Environment the Diocesan Leadership Award sessions, All Schools Mass, deacon from Bishop Kevin Vann at the ordinations, the diocese’s 40th Catholic Schools Banquet. Th e Anniversary celebration as well as 24th Annual Celebration of Catholic Schools video production specialist, who the ordination of Bishop Vann as parlayed his knack for tinkering the third bishop of Fort Worth. The Catholic Schools Office has announced that everyone is invited “to join Bishop Vann and and technology into jobs at radio Attendees at the annual Catholic Catholic school parents, friends, educators, benefactors, and alumni to celebrate the contributions and television stations, is being SEE JOHNSON, P. 30 of Catholic Schools and their tradition of faith-formation, service, and academic excellence,” for

Please enclose label with address change or inquiries concerning mail delivery of your North Texas Catholic. Thank you. the 24th annual Celebration of Catholic Schools, set for Saturday, Jan. 22 in the Fort Worth Convention Center Ballroom. The Schools Office has announced that “outstanding individuals from throughout the diocese will be honored for their contributions to the school communities; student artwork will be on display; and student musicians and a children’s choir will provide entertainment.” Featured speaker for the annual celebration will be Karen Ristau, president of the National Catholic Educational Association. John Rhadigan, Fox Sports anchor, and a parent of children in Catholic schools, will serve as master of ceremonies. The event begins with a social hour at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $80 per person. Reservations may be made by calling Tessy Ross in the Catholic Schools Office at (817) 560-3300 or by e-mailing her at tross@fwdioc. org, or by visiting the website: www.fwdioc.org.