December 2019 - Vol. 54 No. 11 by South Texas Catholic

SERVING THE CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF CORPUS CHRISTI

South Texas

Catholic D E C E M B E R 2 019

Season of hope W W W. S O U T H T E X A S C AT H O L I C .C OM

She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Luke 2:7 19-2700

2â&#x20AC;&#x201A; South Texas Catholic | December 2019

ON THE

VOL. 54 NO. 11 Publisher Bishop Michael Mulvey, STL DD Director of Communications Julie Stark jstark@diocesecc.org Communications Board Father Jose A. Salazar, Sister Rosa Maria Ortiz, IWBS, David Campa, Regina Garcia, Zach Everett, Shannette Hoelscher, Deacon Richard Longoria, Elizabeth Nguyen and Benjamin Nye

A 2017 photo of the live nativity scene at St. John Paul II High School. This year’s live nativity event is scheduled to run Sunday, Dec. 1 through Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 6-8 p.m. The event is free and open to the public View photos of this event at SouthTexasCatholic.com/news/nativity.

COVER

Father Peter Martinez for South Texas Catholic

Managing Editor Mary Cottingham MCottingham@diocesecc.org Theological Consultant Ben Nguyen, JD/JCL. BNguyen@diocesecc.org Office Manager Adel Sauceda ARivera@diocesecc.org STC Support Staff Madelyn Galindo Correspondents Jesse De Leon and Rebecca Esparza

The Guadalupana torch stops at Corpus Christi Cathedral

Translator Gloria Romero Photographers Ervey Martinez and David Mendez

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Submit your announcements by using our online form, e-mail, mail or drop it off at the Chancery office. Only announcements for the month of publication will be included in the print edition, if space permits. All other calendar items will appear on the magazine or diocesan websites. The South Texas Catholic is not liable or in any way responsible for the content of any advertisement appearing within these pages. All claims, offers guarantees, statements, etc. made by advertisers are solely the responsibility of the advertiser. Deceptive or misleading advertising is never knowingly accepted. Complaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or to the Better Business Bureau.

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FROM THE BISHOP 4 MESSAGE Eucharistic Congress 2022 VOCATIONS 9 Home for Christmas

11 15

FORMATION Altar servers love to serve at St. Helena’s

EVANGELIZATION Una Invitación a la Mesa del Señor

FROM THE DIOCESE 23 NEWS Humble servants of Christ serve families in need NEWS 26 NATIONAL ‘We need to become an evangelizing Church,’ says new USCCB VP

VATICAN NEWS Pope Francis: Tech companies have a responsibility to protect children

Keep up with the faith at www.SouthTexasCatholic.com

December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 3

MESSAGE FROM THE BISHOP

Advent 2019

My dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

dvent begins today. Through liturgy and prayer, this time of conversion prepares us to joyfully anticipate the birth of our Savior in Bethlehem of Judea. Advent also draws our attention to the second coming of Christ. He will come again. “Stay awake for you do not know on which day your Lord will come” (Mt 24:42). Understood properly, the Christian life is an ongoing encounter with Jesus Christ who promised to be with us always. Putting him first in our lives encourages us to yearn to meet him each day, face to face and for eternity. Am I prepared to meet him? Are you? Do we long to meet him? While Advent is an annual reminder of the Lord’s first coming, the Christian life is an ongoing advent of vigilance for the second coming of the Messiah. “You must be prepared for, at an hour that you do not expect, the Son of Man will come” (Mt 24:44). How can we prepare? St. Paul penned a note of urgency to the Church in Rome: “…it is the hour for you to awake from your sleep and to put on the Lord Jesus Christ; making no provision for the desires of the flesh” (Rm 13:14). As the pastor of the Diocese of Corpus Christi, I have asked myself, how can I assist us to encounter Christ and to bring this encounter to others, especially those on the periphery of life? In response, with this Advent letter, I announce:

The Eucharistic Congress for the Diocese of Corpus Christi from June 16-19, 2022. Your responses at the pastoral planning listening sessions and on surveys two years ago have provided me and those assisting me with invaluable input for study and reflection materials that will be made available throughout the diocese in preparation for our great event of 2022. A more detailed schedule of the parish and diocesan initiatives with study curriculums will be available early in 2020. I invite every parishioner and every organization in the parishes and the diocese to take part as much as possible. I am calling us to renew ourselves and together to renew our diocese. Our efforts as one body will be decisive for us personally and for the future of the diocese. Together in Christ, all things are possible. Our spiritual renewal as missionary disciples will renew and challenge us to a sincere, transforming encounter with Jesus in the sacrament of his body and blood. It will also allow us to experience him present in our midst as his body. “Where two or three are united in my name, I am in their midst” (Mt 18:20). Our world is hurting. Our Church is wounded. Jesus, the way, the truth and the life, is the answer. Through his Holy Spirit, he is appealing to us to seriously recommit ourselves to our baptismal life and to be united in his commandment to love as a covenant and mission to respond to this hurting world and our suffering Church. If we

Sincerely your brother in Christ, +Most Rev. Michael Mulvey, STL, DD Bishop of Corpus Christi 4 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

do not respond, who will? During Advent, I encourage you to spend time with the daily scripture readings as the best way to prepare to celebrate his birth. May Mary, mother of the Church and the Church’s perfect model – the first to leave everything behind and say “yes” to God – show us the way to enrich our faith, strengthen our hope and enflame our hearts with love this Advent season!

MENSAJE DEL OBISPO

Adviento 2019

Mis queridas hermanas y hermanos en Cristo,

l advenimiento comienza hoy. A través de la liturgia y la oración, este tiempo de conversión nos prepara para anticipar alegremente el nacimiento de nuestro Salvador en Belén de Judea. El Adviento también nos llama a pensar sobre la segunda venida de Cristo. El vendrá de nuevo. “Mantente despierto porque no sabes en qué día vendrá tu Señor” (Mt 24:42). Entendido correctamente, la vida cristiana es un encuentro continuo con Jesucristo, quien prometió estar con nosotros siempre. Ponerlo primero en nuestras vidas nos anima a anhelar conocerlo cada día, a mirarlo cara a cara y por la eternidad. ¿Estoy preparado para conocerlo? ¿Está usted? ¿Anhelamos conocerlo? Mientras que el Adviento es un recordatorio anual de la primera venida del Señor, la vida cristiana es un advenimiento de vigilancia continua, en la espera de la segunda venida del Mesías. “Debes estar preparado porque a la hora en que menos lo esperes, vendrá el Hijo del Hombre” (Mt 24:44). ¿Cómo podemos prepararnos? San Pablo escribió una nota de urgencia para la Iglesia en Roma: “… es la hora en que despiertes de tu sueño y te vistas para el Señor Jesucristo; no caigas en los deseos de la carne para satisfacer sus concupiscencias”. (Rm 13:14). Como pastor de la Diócesis de Corpus Christi, me he preguntado, ¿cómo podría ayudar a encontrarnos con Cristo y cómo podría llevar a otros a ese encuentro, especialmente a aquellos en la periferia de la vida? Como respuesta,

a través de esta carta de Adviento, quiero anunciar: El Congreso Eucarístico para la Diócesis de Corpus Christi del 16 al 19 de junio de 2022. Sus respuestas en las sesiones de escucha de planificación pastoral y en las encuestas de hace dos años nos han proporcionado a mí y a quienes me han ayudado una valiosa aportación para el estudio y los materiales de reflexión que estarán disponibles en toda la diócesis en preparación para nuestro gran evento de 2022. Un calendario más detallado de las iniciativas parroquiales y diocesanas con planes de estudio, estarán disponibles a principios de 2020. Invito a todos los feligreses, a todas las organizaciones de las parroquias y de la diócesis a participar lo más posible. Les hago un llamado para renovarnos y a que juntos renovemos nuestra diócesis. Nuestros esfuerzos como un solo cuerpo serán decisivos para nosotros personalmente y para el futuro de la diócesis. Juntos en Cristo, todo es posible. Nuestra renovación espiritual como discípulos misioneros nos renovará y nos desafiará a un encuentro sincero y transformador con Jesús en el sacramento de su cuerpo y sangre. También nos permitirá experimentar su presencia en nuestro medio, como juntos formamos su cuerpo. “Donde dos o tres se reúnan en mi nombre, allí estaré yo, en medio de ellos” (Mt 18:20). Nuestro mundo está sufriendo. Nuestra iglesia está herida. Jesús es el camino, la verdad y la vida, es la respuesta. A través de su Espíritu Santo, nos está pidiendo que nos volvamos a comprometer seriamente con nuestra

vida bautismal y que estemos unidos en su mandamiento de amar como un pacto y una misión para responder a este mundo herido y a nuestra Iglesia sufriente. Si nosotros no respondemos, ¿quién lo hará? Durante el Adviento, te animo a meditar sobre las lecturas diarias de las Sagradas Escrituras, como la mejor manera de prepararse para celebrar su nacimiento. Es mi deseo: ¡Que María, madre de la Iglesia y modelo perfecto de la Iglesia, la primera en dejar todo atrás y decir “sí” a Dios, nos muestre la manera de enriquecer nuestra fe, fortalecer nuestra esperanza y encender nuestros corazones con amor en esta temporada de Adviento!

Sinceramente tu hermano en Cristo, +Reverendísimo Michael Mulvey, STL, DD Obispo de Corpus Christi December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 5

†† NEWS BRIEFS

Supporters and staffers of Corpus Christi Hope House and Corpus Christi Birthright joined Bishop Michael Mulvey as he blessed rooms in the new St. Gianna Molla Home for pregnant mothers, and single mothers and their children on Oct. 29. St. Gianna Molla Home is completed due in large part to generous benefactors, Tim and Cyndy Legamaro, who were present during the blessing. Cyndy is on the board of directors for the Hope House. “We just decided that God has blessed us, and we wanted to bless others by the gift of being able to offer this place for them,” Tim said. Now the three Hope House shelters have bed space for up to 23 women and their dependent children. “It’s one thing to say, ‘don’t kill your baby, but what are you going to do about it,’” said Ray Reeves, board chairman and chief executive officer of Hope House. “That’s what Hope House is all about; that’s what Birthright is all about.” Architects and planners designed this 1,500 square-foot house to accommodate five mothers and their children. Hope House, Inc. is an ecumenical, non-profit organization. The main office on Reid has rooms for parenting classes, counseling and life skills. The Gabriel Project Community Outreach Program operates out of the main office. The Gabriel project is the result of contributions from faithbased groups of various denominations throughout the Coastal Bend area. Office personnel distributes baby wipes, clothing, furniture, diapers, and necessities to mothers in need throughout the community. “Just this year, we have served over 4,300 clients,” Reeves said. “We offer them pregnancy counseling. Instead of just handing a bag of diapers and the lady going away, we try to build a relationship with them.” According to Reeves, the Hope House has recently acquired property for new offices down the street and has hopes of turning the old office into another shelter. “Our goal is to change a person’s life and in time, help them become productive members of our community,” Reeves said.

Adel Sauceda | STC

Bishop Mulvey blesses new St. Gianna Molla Home

Ray Reeves (center) and Tim and Cyndy Legamaro are all smiles on the porch of the new St. Gianna Molla Home for pregnant mothers, and single mothers and their children. Tim and Cyndy were the generous benefactors for the new Hope House. View the complete photo album or download photos at SouthTexasCatholic.com/news/StGianna.

The Gabriel Project accepts donations of baby furniture, cribs, clothing and maternity clothes. For more information, visit cchope.org or to donate go to cchope.org/donations.

Contributed photo

Schoenstatt’s celebrate diamond jubilee of Confidentia Shrine

6 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary and the Schoenstatt Family of Texas hosted a celebration in honor of the 60th Anniversary of the Confidentia Shrine in Lamar on Oct. 19. Pilgrims and Schoenstatt members from all over Texas traveled to Lamar to join in the festivities. Five buses of pilgrims joined in the festivities. The buses came from the valley, Corpus

Christi, Laredo and Dallas. “We are very grateful for all the support we received since “Harvey” that made this event possible and that the Schoenstatt Shrine can continue to be the beautiful place that the Blessed Mother has called into being 60 years ago,” Schoenstatt Sister M. Gloria Mauricio said.

Gloria Romero | for STC

Bishop Michael Mulvey installed 13 men in the ministry of acolyte during Mass at St. Philip the Apostle Parish. These men are from parishes throughout the Diocese of Corpus Christi and have been instituted as candidates and lectors. As acolytes, they can assist priests and deacons with the Liturgy of the Eucharist. “These men have done outstanding

work, they have made many sacrifices and will be true and credible witnesses of the Gospel,” said Michael Mantz, Director of the Office of Permanent Diaconate. They are scheduled to be ordained to the permanent diaconate in November 2020. Mantz said the bishop wants “missionary deacons” and they will be assigned where there is the greatest need in God’s

vineyard to build up the Body of Christi. The Vicar General of the Diocese of Corpus Christi, Father James Stembler and many priests throughout the diocese concelebrated Mass with the bishop after the institution. View the complete photo album or download photos at SouthTexasCatholic. com/news/2019acolytes.

In no particular order the deacon candidates installed as acolytes are Lee Edward Alvarado from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Corpus Christi, Marco Antonio Anes from Holy Family in Corpus Christi, Bobby Lee Bourlon Sr. from St. Elizabeth in Alice, Mark Douglas Cazalas from St. Philip in Corpus Christi, Jim Noris Culpepper from St. John of the Cross in Orange Grove, Peter David Gonzales from Sacred Heart in Odem, Brian David Holden from Christ the King, Julian Manuel Ortiz from St. Joseph in Alice, John Lowell Pierce from St. Elizabeth in Alice, Billy Fey Quintanilla from Most Precious Blood in Corpus Christi, Gary Wayne Robinson from St. Paul the Apostle in Corpus Christi, Joseph Ruiz from Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kingsville and Ruben Sokiz, Jr. from Our Lady of Good Counsel in Kingsville.

EDITORS’ NOTE: CORRECTION: In the November issue of the South Texas Catholic, under the section Vocations, Seminarian Charles Silvas was incorrectly identified as Carlos De La Rosa in the cutline. See corrected cutline below: Charles Silvas is living out his pastoral year at Corpus Christi Cathedral. Teaching RCIA classes is one of his many duties.

Carlos De La Rosa

Charles Silvas December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 7

†† NEWS BRIEFS

Candidates for the permanent diaconate installed as acolytes

†† VOCATIONS

When Kathleen Cullinan learned about the need to find an online market for a collection of donated Hummel figurines, lamps, candy dishes, bells and clocks, she volunteered to organize their sale. With the help of her granddaughter and St. John Paul II High School freshman, Jazzlyn Silva, they worked together for more than 50 hours, carefully cleaning and preparing the Hummels for sale. Most of the collection came from the estate of a family who had befriended Bishop Emeritus Edmond Carmody when he was a young priest, and they were to be used as a gift to support Catholic education. Cullinan was the perfect candidate for taking the reins on this project; she has a special interest in Hummel figurines and collected them for many years. She also has experience selling antiques and collectibles online. Kathleen and Jazzlyn obtained volunteer service hours for the school and were able to experience quality time together in service to Catholic education. They researched values, photographed, and created an online store on Etsy. M.I. Hummel figurines are made of porcelain, and based on the drawings of Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel, O.S.F. Goebel produced the first series of figurines in 1935 and gained popularity in the U.S. after World War II. Many are rare and early trademarked pieces. The collection also includes a complete series of 30 Christmas plates. Because of the specialized nature of this collection, it has been placed for sale online to reach a broader market. All proceeds from the sale will support the Saint John Paul II Endowment, which provides tuition assistance to students. To view the collection online, visit HummelCollectionShop on Etsy.com or email kathleen@cullinan.to. For more information about making an estate gift to the Diocese of Corpus Christi, contact the Office of Stewardship at Development at (361) 882-6191.

Karen Silva | for STC

St. John Paul II High School selling Hummel collection to support endowment

Jazzlyn Silva and Kathleen Cullinan research values for the Hummel Collection gifted to St. John Paul High School.

Contributed photo

St. Pius X sends boxes of joy

St. Pius X fifth graders Madison Payne (left) and Reid Halepeska are filling boxes of gifts for children in need. 8 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

As one of their acts of service to others, students and teachers from every grade level at St. Pius X School donated boxes of joy to children in developing countries. They filled the boxes with toys, clothing, school supplies, a rosary and the story of Jesus. A “Box of Joy” is a program with the Cross Catholic Outreach. Cross Catholic Outreach is a 501 c3 Catholic relief and development ministry that provides food, shelter, medical care, water, education, self-help programs, care for orphans, and emergency relief to the poorest of the poor in dioceses around the world in the name of Christ. “We chose to support the ministry Cross Catholic Outreach by participating in their “Box of Joy” program,” said Beth Hinojosa, enriched math teacher and assistant principal. “The program provides children who normally would not receive any gifts for Christmas to get a ‘box of joy’ delivered to them. We collected items from each grade level. The teachers each sponsored a box for a child by making a donation, and we shipped it off to be distributed to children in most need all over the world,” she said.

Contributed photo

†† VOCATIONS

The Riojas family are active parishioners at St. Joseph in Alice. Both father and son have been knights in the Knights of Columbus for many years. In this photo, the Riojas are with one of their parish priests, from left, Brenda, Ruben, Jr., Father Mathew Jaison, Ruben and Belinda.

Home for Christmas

Seminarian prays for more vocations By Jesse De Leon

E Correspondent

ven though seminarian Ruben Riojas has been studying to be a priest at St. Joseph Seminary in Covington, Louisiana, his family ties in the Coastal Bend remain strong. The 22-year-old was born in Corpus Christi and grew up in Alice as a parishioner of St. Joseph Church. Ruben and his father, Ruben, Jr., mother Belinda, and younger sister Brenda all attended Mass regularly and still do today. They are also involved in various parish events and activities and both Father and son are in the Knights of Columbus. “I remember going to church, and there was this lady who would always ask me when I was going to go to the seminary to become a priest,” recalls Ruben. “I thought I was going to get married and have kids, but instead, God has placed me on

the path to the priesthood.” Ruben points out that most of his fellow seminarians were called to be priests when they were much younger. It was not until he was about to enter his senior year in high school that he realized God was calling him to be a priest. Though the timing of his decision differed from those of his peers, Ruben sees his time at St. Joseph’s as an integral part of his discernment process. “St. Joseph’s is a very lively parish,” says Riojas. “Everyone there is very supportive, and that only helped to affirm my vocation even more.” Ruben’s mother, Belinda, recalls that his journey to the seminary all started with a question from Father Richard Libby. “Six years ago, he asked Ruben if he would like to be an altar server, and I said, ‘he would,’ but Father Libby smiled and told me he December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 9

†† VOCATIONS

“We are excited that he will be home for Christmas, and we value our time together as a family,” she added. “But we know that when he is here, he will spend more time at his parish home than he will here with us.” “I think of that parable about the mustard seed,” reflects Riojas. “I have grown my faith here and it will be a blessing to be back home with my family for Christmas as I continue to offer prayers for more vocations to the priesthood.”

Contributed photo.

was asking my son and not me!” Ruben was an altar server and regularly attended religious education classes, and was even selected to serve at the Christmas Mass despite having only one week’s experience. These experiences drew him closer to the Eucharist, which set in motion his current spiritual journey. Although his family has been unequivocally supportive of Ruben’s vocation to the priesthood, they were somewhat surprised when he first told them of his calling. “He had a typical upbringing. I can even remember when he wanted to be a high school music teacher,” recalls his father. “But his decision to become a priest has actually deepened our faith as a family.” His mother echoes the sentiment. “We are so proud of him,” Belinda says. “We know his studies take so much time, but we just want to see it happen for him.”

Retirement Fund for Religious Please give to those who have given a lifetime.

Dec. 7-8 Sister Dorothy Anhaiser is a sister with the congregation of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament. She is a native Texan. She held so many positions that the list is dazzling. One of her last official roles was as archivist for the Congregational archives. Your gift helps provide prescription medications, nursing care, and more. Please be generous. More than 93 percent of donations aid senior religious.

WWW.RETIREDRELIGIOUS.ORG 10 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

Ruben Riojas serving as an altar server at St. Joseph Parish, before he had any dreams about becoming a priest. His father, Ruben, Jr., said he was surprised when his son said he wanted to be a priest because of his son’s typical upbringing.

The Office of Social Ministry is sponsoring the

Angel Tree Project

for children whose parent(s) are incarcerated. We have a list of over 200 children who are in need of a Christmas gift this year.

For more information on how you can be an Angel forSponsored a child(ren), please contact Margie at Ministry by The Office ofRivera Social MRivera@diocesecc.org or (361) 882-6191, ext. 633. Deadline to submit gifts is December 10.

Contributed photo

†† FORMATION

Currently, St. Helena of the True Cross of Jesus Parish has 15 altar servers on their roster, who according to their Pastor Father Richard Libby, exhibit a devotion to the Mass and love for the Eucharist.

Altar servers love to serve at St. Helena’s By Rebecca Esparza

Correspondent

our of Simon and Christina Purnell’s five children have been or are currently altar servers. For the Purnell family, it’s about giving back and serving the Catholic community they hold dear to their hearts. “We think it’s important they honor and serve God. There’s nothing that makes a parent’s heart more joyful than seeing your children love God with such reverence,” Christina Purnell said. Their two youngest children, Kolbe, 14, and Christopher, 13, are altar servers at St. Helena of the True Cross of Jesus Parish. Both teenagers have been serving

since their first Communion. For Kolbe, his love of the holy Eucharist lights a fire inside of him that keeps him coming back year after year. Christopher enjoys listening intently to the Gospel readings because he believes his attention is sharpest when he is on the altar serving. The brothers have also become adept at training new altar servers, as well. “In the beginning you show them how to set up the altar, then you let them hold the patens during communion, show them when to ring the bells and wash Father’s hands. You slowly let them do a little more over time,” explained Kolbe

Purnell. Kolbe has aspirations of becoming a lawyer someday, while Christopher has his sights set on becoming an orthodontist. “Being a server helps you grow in your faith. It’s a good way to help your church, too,” Kolbe added. “Altar servers provide a true service for the Church,” said Father Richard Libby, pastor at St. Helena. “Having altar servers means a priest can concentrate more on preaching the Gospel and offering the holy Sacrifice. We don’t have to worry about placement of the chalice or books, thanks to our altar servers.” Father Libby said his current roster

December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 11

of 15 altar servers at St. Helena have a devotion to the Mass and love for the Eucharist. “They are not there to look good, but are there to help the Mass look good. That requires humility and discipline, which all of our altar servers possess,” Father Libby said. Michael Fergie, a 10th grader at Incarnate Word Academy, has been an altar server at St. Helena since second grade. He prefers to take a more active role in the Mass versus sitting in the pews as a passive participant. “I always encourage my friends to give serving a try. Becoming an altar server doesn’t mean you’ll become a priest. It’s a great way to show your love to God and help others out,” he said. Fergie, who is also an altar server at IWA, wants to either become an engineer or pursue a

field in technology. “I think it’s a great opportunity for children to learn more about the Mass,” Christina Purnell said. “I’ve always believed in sitting up close to the altar, especially when my kids were little, because if kids can’t see what’s going on, they are not as interested. Once my kids started as altar servers, I could see them become closer to God. I think it’s important for children to learn they have a role to play at church.” Potential altar servers must complete the sacrament of holy Communion. At St. Helena, registration forms to become an Altar Server can be found online: sthelenacc.com/altar-servers. To view the stories and photos from the Altar Server Award Ceremony go to southtexascatholic.com/ news/2019altarservers.

Rebecca Esparza | for STC

†† FORMATION

Michael Fergie, a sophomore at Incarnate Word Academy, has been an altar server at St. Helena of the True Cross of Jesus since he was in second grade.

Rebecca Esparza | for STC

➤ For Kolbe, his love of the holy Eucharist lights a fire inside of him that keeps him coming back year after year. Christopher enjoys listening intently to the Gospel readings because he believes his attention is sharpest when he is on the altar serving. 13-year-old Christopher Purnell (left) and his brother, 14-year-old Kolbe Purnell, are both altar servers at St. Helena of the True Cross of Jesus. The brothers enjoy feeling a closeness with God and giving back to their parish community through their service.

12 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

Julie Stark | STC

†† FORMATION

Mark Bolus points to the Biblical timeline in the RCIA class he helps facilitate in the St. Juliana Family Center at Most Precious Blood Parish.

A time of preparation and expectation Religious education points the way through advent By Julie Stark

South Texas Catholic

s the days become shorter and the temperature falls, our hearts turn with anticipation of the Christmas season. We enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays. We watch children and grandchildren and revel at their wonder of Christmas lights, and at the beauty this time of year brings. For all Christians, this period of Advent, a waiting time of expectation, is a reminder to prepare hearts and souls for the celebration of the birthday of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Throughout the Diocese of Corpus Christi, RCIA directors and religious educators are laying the groundwork for this remarkable time of year. The readings and teachings all reflect the coming of the Messiah. It is a time for preparing our heart, mind and soul. It’s a time for reconciliation, a time for reordering our life, and a time to give thanks for the fulfillment of all that was prophesied in Jesus. The advent season launches us into a new spiritual year by preparing us for the rebirth of Christ in our lives. In a quiet corner of the St. Jude Chapel at Most Precious December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 13

†† FORMATION

around the diocese are just as busy. Minnie Perez, director of religious education at Our Lady of the Rosary, also takes time out of a hectic schedule to discuss children’s religious education during this beautiful season. “My goal for advent is to make sure that the children understand that Christmas is not about the presents we receive, but about a person – Jesus,” Perez said. “He is our greatest gift, and he was born so that the gates of heaven may be open to us,” she added. Perez has many years of experience bringing the good news to the children in her religious education classes. She uses arts and crafts to explain Advent to her eight to10-year-old students. They work on Advent wreaths to mark the time of expectation. The children also learn about the real St. Nicholas as they work on ornaments depicting the saint. She talks to

them about Mother Mary and her willingness to be the mother of Jesus as well as her Advent time waiting for Jesus to be born. Another creative way that the children of Perez’s classes learn about Advent is through an Advent calendar activity. The activity helps them prepare for Jesus’ birthday while they count down the days to Christmas on the calendar. Reflecting on Jesus as the beautiful gift he is at Christmastime is something we should all do, but we must also make ourselves ready for when he returns. As Bolus reminds us, “just as the Lord became flesh and dwelt among us, we should also prepare for when the Lord comes again although ‘that day or hour no one knows’” (Mt. 24:36). We must always be prepared to live an advent life – a life of expectation and preparation.

Mary Cottingham | STC

Blood Parish, Mark Bolus, RCIA director, takes some time out of his busy schedule to talk about what he wants the catechumens to experience during the Advent season. “I want them to recognize that something is coming, something wonderful. The sights, sounds, and colors at Mass all change marking a time of expectation in our lives,” he said, adding, “this is a season that helps to remind us that God keeps his promises. “We should also remember to focus on others, reconcile with ourselves and with others, find peace, be humble and thankful, and put God first. If I succeed in showing the catechumens this gift, which is Jesus, that we are preparing for and help them to live an advent life, waiting and preparing for when he comes again, then I’ve done a good job explaining Advent!” The children’s religious educators

Minnie Perez displays an Advent wreath made by one of her students in religious education class. Perez assigns the children a project and supplies them with a variety of materials. 14 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

Por Gloria Romero

A Corresponsal

La Liturgia Católica en Español se transmite por Internet todos los domingos por la mañana a las 11 a.m. en vivo, desde la Catedral de Corpus Christi, y disponible para todo el mundo en: goccn.org. La santa misa se retransmite a traves de los sistemas de cable de Corpus Christi (public access cable) los martes a las 10 a.m. y los jueves a las 7 p.m. Todas las transmisiones en vivo y grabadas son producciones de CCN “Catholic Communications Network”. Ver transmisiones por cable en bit.ly/cathedral-tv-schedule-2019-2020

Patrocinado por la Oficina del Ministerio Multicultural

la luz espiritual, de la pastoral del V Encuentro para los hispano – latinos, es que la Diócesis de Corpus Christi, a través de su ministerio multicultural y social anuncia la transmisión de la Misa en español. A partir del primero de diciembre y hasta el primero de junio de 2020 la Misa de 11 a.m. de cada domingo desde la Catedral de corpus Christi, será transmitida en vivo a través de Internet por: goccn.org y retransmitida localmente por los diferentes sistemas de cable a través del canal público los martes a las 10 a.m. y los jueves a las 7 p.m. El llevar a muchas partes la Misa en español es uno de los frutos que han dado las sesiones del V Encuentro, dijo Jaime Reyna director de la oficina de asuntos multiculturales y ministerio Social para la diócesis de Corpus Christi. Hace algunos años transmitíamos la Misa en español y en la mayoría de las parroquias diocesanas había una o más misas en esa lengua, o de manera bilingüe, pero ahora por diferentes razones, las parroquias han tenido que suprimir algunas de las misas en español. Por otra parte, vivimos un momento, en que la población hispano parlante ha crecido al igual que su necesidad por alimento espiritual.” La misa en español les ayuda a sentirse más cerca de su casa”, comentó Reyna. Al estar involucrado en el ministerio social, Reyna se ha dado cuenta de la gran necesidad que existe en los asilos de ancianos, en los centros de detención y en las cárceles, de escuchar la palabra de Dios, de tener esa esperanza espiritual que da el oír al sacerdote hablando en su idioma, ya que muchas de esas personas solo hablan el español, especialmente en los centros de detención en donde hay muchos niños. El poder llevarles la Misa en español es muy significativo porque a través de la liturgia y de los cantos, logran identificarse culturalmente en su idioma, en sus tradiciones y en su fe católica. “En mi experiencia, trabajando en el ministerio social me he dado cuenta de que muchas personas ven la Misa en línea, es la misa sindicalizada transmitida desde otras ciudades, por eso nació la idea de hacerlo aquí, desde nuestra Catedral y con nuestros sacerdotes”. Dijo Reyna quien añadió:” las dificultades para llevar a sacerdotes a estos lugares es mucha, y una manera de cubrir en parte, esa necesidad espiritual de la gente, se soluciona de esta manera”, por eso en una colaboración conjunta de la Oficina de Asuntos Multiculturales y del Centro de Telecomunicaciones, la Diócesis de Corpus Christi lleva a cabo la transmisión de la Misa en Español. La Oficina Diocesana de Asuntos Multiculturales patrocina la grabación de la Misa y CCN, (Catholic Communications Network) se encarga de la producción. La Conferencia Nacional de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos ha guiado el V Encuentro de la pastoral para los December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 15

†† EVANGELIZACIÓN

Una invitación a la Mesa del Señor

†† EVANGELIZATION

hispano-latinos cuyo propósito es reunir a todos para una mayor participación en la Iglesia. Reconociendo el fenómeno de la inmigración que a través de las estadísticas muestra un gran crecimiento, donde el 70% de los católicos se identifican a sí mismos como hispano- latinos la necesidad de atender sus necesidades espirituales es inminente. La Misa en español responde a ese propósito ya que en ella pueden conectarse con sus raíces y tradiciones, con su país de origen y sus historias personales. La transmisión de la Misa en español también puede llegar a mucha gente que trabaja en el fin de semana, bien sea en el

campo, en una refinería o que por cualquier causa no puede ir a Misa, el verla y escucharla es un incentivo que les motivará para acudir a la Iglesia. “Bajo esa espiritualidad maravillosa del V Encuentro dirigimos nuestra vista hacia Jesús, El también fue un inmigrante, todos somos inmigrantes en nuestra identidad, porque no somos de este mundo, somos peregrinos y todos somos hijos de Dios. Así podemos relacionarnos como hermanos y hermanas con nuestras maravillosas diferencias y pasados para reunirnos a participar en la mesa del Señor”, Dijo Jaime Reyna.

Transmisión de la española enlalacatedral catedral Transmisionen demasa la Misa enmisa español desde Martes (10-11 a.m.) & Jueves (7-8 p.m.)

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Ayudenos a Prevenir el Abuso Financiero La Diócesis de Corpus Christi por medio de la recomendación del Concilio Diocesano de Finanzas y el Concilio Presbiteral han llevado su dedicación mas allá para la buena administración y responsabilidad nanciera en nombre de donantes generosos al instituir un “hotline” para reportar el abuso nanciero. La Diócesis de Corpus Christi ha seleccionado un tercer partido independiente, La Red, para proporcionarle a usted con una manera para reportar anónima y condencialmente el abuso nanciero e fraude. Los empleados, los parroquianos, los voluntarios, los vendedores, y otros partidos interesados estan impulsados para reportar las preocupaciones que tengan respeto a la conducta de påca ética nanciera dentro de la Diócese de Corpus Christi. Todas las investigaciones serán tradas inmediatamente y discretamente. Personas que llamen tienen el derecho de mantenerse anónimas.

Llamada 1-877-571-9748

Obispo Michael Mulvey y el personal de la Oficina de un Ambiente Seguro y de Servicios para Niños y Familia se comprometen a ayudar en el proceso de curación de las víctimas y sobrevivientes de abuso. Si usted o alguien que usted conoce está en necesidad de estos servicios, llame a Stephanie Bonilla, Directora de la Oficina de un Ambiente Seguro y de Servicios para Niños y Familia: (361) 882-6191 para asistencia inmediata.

Oficina de un Ambiente Seguro y de Servicios para Niños y Familia

16 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

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Gloria Romero | for STC

†† EVANGELIZATION

“Esta es su casa porque aquí está el amor de Cristo” dijo el Padre Pedro Elizardo durante la celebración Eucarística de la calida y cariñosa bienvenida a los peregrinos guadalupanos.

La Antorcha Guadalupana hace escala en la Catedral de Corpus Christi Por Gloria Romero

ntre sonidos de tambores y silbidos de caracoles llegaron los matachines danzando frente al estandarte de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, a la Catedral de Corpus Christi. “El bailarle a la Virgen Santísima, es agradecerle todas las bendiciones, de la manera en que lo hacían nuestros ancestros” dijo Leticia Hofstetter del grupo: Danza Guadalupana de Alice quien junto con su grupo de matachines fueron a recibir a la Virgen y al grupo de peregrinos mexicanos a Laredo. La carrera de la Antorcha Guadalupana es una tradición que lleva dieciocho años y nació de un grupo de fe llamado Conformidad Ollincan que evangeliza contando las bondades de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. Portan la antorcha y se la pasan entre ellos y ellas simbolizando la luz de esperanza hermandad y fe entre los pueblos de diferentes culturas. La historia de las apariciones y la imagen de la Virgen de Guadalupe que en 1531 evangelizó a un pueblo, fue un puente de fe que se levanto entre dos culturas la europea y la indígena uniendo y hermanando dos continentes. El recuerdo de ese

Gloria Romero | for STC

Corresponsal

El Padre Pedro Elizardo saluda a Jesús (Eddie) Cruz uno de los organizadores de la Conformidad Ollincan en la región. December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 17

†† EVANGELIZATION

Gloria Romero | for STC

hecho milagroso en sus detalles, ha originado este movimiento de mensajeros por la dignidad de un pueblo dividido por la frontera. Tres grupos de matachines se reunieron en oración danzando frente a la Catedral de Corpus Christi, ante las imágenes de la Santísima Virgen y de San Juan Diego: los del grupo Ollin-Papalotl, que partió de la Basilica de Guadalupe en Mexico el primero de septiembre, los matachines Fe

y Esperanza de la parroquia del Sagrado Corazón, los matachines de Danza Guadalupana de Alice y otros miembros de la conformidad Ollincan, cuyo destino final será el Central Park de Nueva York el 12 de diciembre, anteriormente era la Catedral de San Patricio pero ya no caben allí. Para Leticia Salinas del grupo original de México este peregrinaje es muy importante: “Tenemos el privilegio de saber que una de las tradiciones más profundas, poderosas y

sagradas del planeta esta dentro de nuestros antepasados y queremos que nuestra cultura fluya y sea conocida por las nuevas generaciones; porque nos une al entrelazar lo Divino del cielo con lo sagrado de la tierra. El camino por el cual todos pasaremos.” Estos peregrinos que atraviesan Mexico y Estados Unidos rezan por la intercesión de Maria de Guadalupe para llevar su mensaje de amor en la unidad de los pueblos, las culturas y las familias.

❶

❷

❹

❺

18 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

†† EVANGELIZATION

❶ Fue impresionante la llegada de la

Antorcha Guadalupana a la Catedral de Corpus Christi sostenida por los matachines que la pasaban de una a otra mano como símbolo de luz, hermandad y unidad entre las familias de los pueblos de Dios.

➋ Miembros de la Danza

Guadalupana de Alice - toma su turno, y oran danzando frente a la imagen de da Virgen. Ellas son: Leticia Hofstetter,

Norma Acuña, Yolanda Escamilla y Bella Castillo.

❸ Sosteniendo el estandarte con la

imagen de la Virgen, los matachines se preparan para ofrecerle su danza y oración en agradecimiento a la Virgen por sus bondades. Al mismo tiempo que honran las tradiciones de sus ancestros.

❹ Los matachines del grupo Fe y Esperanza del Sagrado Corazon

alegraron con sus vistosos trajes y plumajes el exterior de la Catedral danzando.

❺ & ❻ Sofisticados plumajes del

grupo de la Conformidad Ollincan que provenía de la Bailía de Guadalupe en México, tomo el primer turno para danzarle y ofrecer sus oraciones entre humos de incienso y sonidos autóctonos, ante las imágenes de La Virgen de Guadalupe y Juan Diego.

❸

❻ December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 19

†† EVANGELIZATION

The Guadalupana torch stops at Corpus Christi Cathedral By Gloria Romero

T Correspondent

he matachines danced to the beating of drums and trumpet sounds from conch shells in front of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe at Corpus Christi Cathedral. “To dance for the Blessed Virgin is to thank her for all the many blessings, the way our ancestors did,” said Leticia Hofstetter, a member of the Guadalupana group in Alice. She and a group of matachines, traveled to Laredo to receive the Virgin image, as well as, the pilgrims from Mexico. The annual Guadalupana torch run has been a tradition for the past 18 years and was born from a faith group called Ollincan Conformity, who evangelizes and proclaims the benefits of Our Lady of Guadalupe. They carry the torch as it passes between them, from city to city and state to state.

Gloria Romero | for STC

The Guadalupana Torch arrives to Corpus Christi Cathedral. Passing it from one hand to another is a symbol of light, brotherhood and unity among the people of God.

20 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

The run symbolizes hope, brotherhood and faith among people of different cultures. The history of the apparitions and the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe that in 1531 evangelized a town, became a bridge of faith that arose between two European and indigenous cultures, joining the two continents. In the memory of this miraculous event, La Antorcha Guadalupana was born “for the dignity of a people divided by a border.” Three groups of matachines gathered in prayer. They danced in front of the cathedral, before the images of the Blessed Virgin and San Juan Diego. They were those of the Ollin-Papalotl group, which departed from the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico on Sept. 1; the Faith and Hope matachines of Sacred Heart Parish; the Guadalupana Dance matachines of Alice; and other members of the Ollincan

conformity, whose final destination will be Central Park in New York on Dec. 12. (In previous years, the destination had always been St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but the event outgrew the cathedral.) One of the Mexican pilgrims, Leticia Salinas, said this pilgrimage is very important. “We have the privilege of knowing that one of the deepest, most powerful and sacred traditions of the planet is through our ancestors. And we want our culture to continue and known by the next generations; because it unites us by connecting the divinity of heaven with the sacredness of the earth. The road through which we will all pass.” These pilgrims who cross Mexico and the United States pray for the intercession of Mary of Guadalupe to carry her message of love in the unity of people, cultures and families.

Rebecca Esparza | for STC

†† CATHOLIC EDUCATION

St. John Paul II High School senior Daniel Urbina (left), Veronica Maxwell, Parent Teacher Organization chair and senior Madelyn Burton review technical notes for this year’s Live Nativity event, scheduled to run Sunday, Dec. 1 through Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 6-8 p.m. There is no admission charge for the event and it is open to the public. View photos of this event at SouthTexasCatholic.com/news/nativity.

St. JPII nativity reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas By Rebecca Esparza

Correspondent

or Veronica Maxwell and her family, the Live Nativity at St. John Paul II High School has been a family tradition to kick off the Christmas season for many years. “The Live Nativity has always been very special to me,” marveled Maxwell. “Even when my kids were younger we always had to come by to see the angels, Mary and baby Jesus. What a better way to remind us why we celebrate Christmas.” Maxwell, chair of the high school’s Parent Teacher Organization, is spearheading this year’s live Nativity, which will start Sunday, Dec. 1 and run through Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 6-8 p.m. each evening. The nativity is free to the public, but donations are accepted. The Live Nativity has been held at the school since 2006.

Maxwell first became involved when her oldest child was a freshman at St. John Paul II. Currently, her daughter Annisa is a senior and Alec is a sophomore at the school. Although no formal numbers have been kept on how many cars go through the live Nativity every year, Maxwell believes last year saw record attendance. “We probably saw several hundred cars each night last year. It was definitely our busiest year ever,” she said. “For those who have never been, we ask you try to get there early in case you want to drive through again. We have had more than a few families come through several times.” Maxwell explained the entrance to the live Nativity begins at the Bishop Garriga Middle Preparatory School gates. Guests are offered cookies and hot chocolate to enjoy as they drive through. It is suggested guests might want to bring a blanket December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 21

St. John Paul II High School’s annual Live Nativity event will feature senior Daniel Urbina as “Angel Gabriel.” The 17-year-old was chosen by his peers for the honor, which has become the school’s tradition.

or jacket to enjoy the Christmas music as they experience the live Nativity. “Expect to be amazed,” she marveled. Besides requiring a large cast of actors, there are many more volunteers behind the scenes who make this production come to life, including hundreds of family members, siblings, parents, grandparents and friends of St. John Paul II students. “Almost every student at John Paul signs up to participate. This year, some students were asking when they could start signing up, before we even started working on the event,” Maxwell said. “A lot of them have had older brothers and sisters who have participated. It has become a family tradition here at the school. The main scenes are designated for the seniors. We try to give everyone who asked to play one of the Mary’s or Joseph an opportunity to do that at least one of the evenings.” The “Welcoming Mary” and “Angel Gabriel” are chosen by the previous year’s actors. This year, St. John Paul II seniors Madelyn Burton, 17, and Daniel Urbina, 17, will portray the pivotal roles. “I was very honored to be chosen this year and I’m excited because I’ve been an angel for the past three years,” Madelyn smiled. “I’m praying for good weather and since I’m the “Welcoming Mary” who holds my arms up for two hours straight, that I have the strength to do a great job.”

22 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

Rebecca Esparza | for STC

†† CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Madelyn Burton, 17, a senior at St. John Paul II High School, has been selected to portray “Welcoming Mary” in this year’s Live Nativity event. Dates for the nativity are Sunday, Dec. 1-Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 6-8 p.m. each evening.

Daniel is happy to fill the role of Angel Gabriel and understands it may come with a unique set of challenges. “I’m the one who is high up on the ladder, wearing a big set of wings, so I hope it’s not too windy,” he chuckled. “But honestly, being up there while cars are passing by, it is quite reverent and beautiful.” “It puts you into the Christmas spirit. It reminds everyone of what the true meaning of Christmas is and gets you into the mindset of honoring the birth of Jesus,” Madelyn added. Evelyn Burton, Madelyn’s mother, beamed with pride about her daughter’s participation in this year’s live Nativity. “We are honored that Madelyn has been asked to be the “Welcoming Mary,” she said. “All of the high school students giving of their time and talents to present this to our community is beautiful.” Maxwell said the dedication of the students, whether behind-the-scenes, as angels, shepherds, or primary actors, is unparalleled. “These kids are amazing. They come in after school, eat a quick dinner, put on their costumes and attend a service in the chapel, right before they need to get into place. Then they stand, sit, or kneel for two straight hours without complaining. We’ve had some great weather and some really cold nights. The students get out there, do what they need to do and then come back to do it all over the next night,” she said.

Contributed photo

†† NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

A 2017 photo of Bishop Michael Mulvey praying with the Moody High School baseball team at Catholic Charities.

Humble servants of Christ serve families in need By Dayna Mazzei Worchel

Correspondent

or 41 years, the Moody High School baseball team has volunteered to help Catholic Charities with their annual Christmas Food Baskets and Toys for Tots program by assembling and filling approximately 1,500 food boxes each year, according to information received from Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi, Inc. Through the decades, the names associated with this Christmas time tradition may have changed, but the sentiments behind it have always remained the same

– service to others and gratitude for what one already has. The Moody team was honored for its many years of service in October when it was awarded the annual Legacy Medal of Honor from Catholic Charities at the annual Celebration of Charity dinner. The year the tradition started was 1979, and since then, every Moody High School baseball team has been learning the lessons of teamwork and have been giving back each year by continuing the tradition. When former Moody baseball coach Steve Castillo learned from his mother

Elma Castillo, a volunteer at Catholic Charities, that the organization needed some help, he knew it presented a perfect opportunity for his team to pitch in and begin a new tradition. The team was tasked with assembling boxes of food for families in need during the Christmas season. Castillo thought it important to teach his students how to work as a team both on and off the baseball field. At the same time, he wanted them to be grateful for the blessings in their lives and give back to the community. “We told them it’s not all about hanging out with their friends. December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 23

✝ NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

Sometimes, you have to help people. It’s about dropping everything when someone needs help,” Castillo said. He also told them they were representing their school. Castillo said the boys always felt good after the experience and seemed to enjoy it. Castillo served as head baseball coach at Moody from 1979 to 2003, before retiring and moving on to coach and serve as athletic director at St. John Paul II High School from 2007-2013. “The team also visits Driscoll Children’s Hospital every year, and they participate in the annual Share Your Christmas food drive event,” said Joe Curiel, current Moody coach, who has continued the Catholic Charities’ tradition for the past 11 years. “The team is always very excited and energetic when they assemble the boxes,” he added. “We love doing this for the community. It teaches these young men about the real world and about showing their love for someone else,” he said. Amanda Lazo, Housing Counselor at Catholic Charities, says watching the young team members in action is a sight to behold. The morning begins with a blessing from Bishop Michael Mulvey, and then the fun begins. It’s a tradition that the team captain, under the supervision of the team coach, assembles his team and guides them on the process. “The team is always respectful and very well behaved,

knowing they are there on a mission,” Lazo said. “Anyone who has had the pleasure of witnessing this event can’t help but leave with a sense of knowing, chivalry is still alive.” Coach Corky Gallegos had the unique experience of both volunteering when he was a Moody baseball player from 1987 to 1989 under Castillo, and in coaching the Moody team from 1996 until 2012. Gallegos graduated from Moody in 1989. He now coaches baseball at Bishop High School. “As a player, I always got excited, and I thought it was a great opportunity to meet the people at Catholic Charities,” says Gallegos, who described the atmosphere at that time. “It became competitive with us as we put the boxes together, like an assembly line. The boxes would fly through there.” When he was a player at Moody, he learned the lessons of giving back to the community. He also gained the realization that there are people who needed the help those Christmas food boxes provided. During his coaching years at Moody, he said the experiences at Catholic Charities taught his players to take nothing for granted. “Volunteering is a good lesson for these young men,” Gallegos said. Forty-one years and counting and giving back to the community never gets old for the Moody High School baseball team.

Is God calling you? ¿Dios te llama? There are over 13,000 incarcerated in jails, prisons and detention centers in the Diocese of Corpus Christi. Would you like to serve in this ministry? Hay más de 13,000 prisioneros en cárceles, prisiones y centros de detención en la Diócesis de Corpus Christi. ¿Te gustaría servir en este ministerio? The Office of Social Ministry For more information on how you can serve, please contact Margie Rivera at MRivera@diocesecc.org or (361) 882-6191, ext. 633. 24 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

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December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 25

Catholic News Agency

†† NATIONAL NEWS

Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron of Detroit.

‘We need to become an evangelizing Church,’ says new USCCB VP By Matt Hadro

Catholic News Agency

he new vice president of the U.S. bishops’ conference says that he wants to help bring a spirit of evangelism to the conference as organized religion continues to decline in the U.S. “We need to become an evangelizing Church where the faith is passed from person to person more directly,” Archbishop Allen Vigneron of Detroit,

told CNA on Tuesday on the sidelines of the bishops’ annual fall meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. Archbishop Vigneron was elected vice president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on Tuesday after a third-ballot run-off. Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles was elected the new president of the conference. Vigneron has served as archbishop in Detroit since January of 2009, when he was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI.

26 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

Prior to that, he was first coadjutor and then bishop of Oakland, California since 2003, and was previously rector-president of Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit from 1994 until 2003. The archbishop told CNA that there must be an “urgency” of evangelization in the U.S. at a time when the percentage of Americans identifying as Christian continues to decline. A report by Pew Research last month revealed that the percentage of

EXTRAORDINARY FORM OF THE MASS

the last 18 months, many dioceses are facing investigations by states’ attorneys general into clergy sex abuse. The Pennsylvania grand jury report, released in 2018, revealed more than a thousand allegations of abuse over the span of several decades, and more than a dozen other states - including Vigneron’s own state of Michigan - have open investigations. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel launched his investigation into clergy sex abuse in all seven Catholic dioceses in the state last year. In May, Nessel’s office announced charges of 21 counts of criminal sexual conduct against five priests in the ongoing investigation. Vigneron told CNA that he was committed to working with civil authorities to address historic injustices, but that he and other bishops did not know when the investigation might conclude. “I don’t know where the work of the Attorney General in our seven dioceses stands right now,” Vigneron told CNA but said he and the Archdiocese of Detroit were being “very cooperative” with state officials. Vigneron told CNA that although the McCarrick scandal had been painful for the Church in the United States, many past victims of abuse had now come forward, and that is an important part of serving justice and healing in the Church. “I can account for some of this matter by saying that the investigations that became very prominent led some people to come forward and speak up, and—when in the past they didn’t do that,” he said. In past decades, abuse victims were asked by some dioceses to sign confidentiality agreements as part of settlements with Church authorities, something now specifically prohibited by Pope Francis. Vigneron said that it was important that no victim felt intimidated into silence. “I think the time for confidential agreements is gone,” he said. Vigneron’s three-year term as USCCB vice president formally began on Wednesday, at the conclusion of the conference’s Fall Assembly in Baltimore.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Diocese of Corpus Christi, Texas

7522 Everhart Road Corpus Christi, Texas 78413

(361) 991 - 4400

Schedule of Latin Masses

Sundays at 12:15 p.m. /

First Friday Mass & Devotion at 6:30 PM /

First Saturday Mass & Devotion at 8:00 AM

Website: https://www.stjohnthebaptistcc.org

Find us on Facebook: stjohnbapt.org

December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 27

†† NATIONAL NEWS

Americans identifying as Christian fell by double digits since 2009, and that Catholics no longer make up a majority among Hispanics in the U.S. Evangelization is the answer to this, Vigneron said, pointing to a 2016 archdiocesan synod he convened with lay faithful, priests, and religious in Detroit. The synod led to his pastoral letter, issued the following year, “Unleash the Gospel.” In that letter, Vigneron established ten “guideposts” for evangelization and warned against certain “capital vices” in the local church. “It galvanized the diocese from bottom to top,” Vigneron said of the synod, telling CNA that evangelization cannot just be one among many priorities for the Church, but that it is “the form that’s supposed to inform everything.” “It was of inestimable worth for us to have a synod,” Vigneron said, pointing to a time of “epic change” in Church in the U.S., with a shift away from institutions that were once powerhouses of evangelization—schools and charities—but are no longer. Evangelization, he said, “involves everybody learning some way, or thinking about, how today am I going to meet people that I can bring to Christ? And everybody can do that.” Following his election as USCCB vice president, Vigneron also spoke with CNA about the church’s response to the clergy sex abuse crisis, including an update given to the bishops on the Vatican’s much-anticipated report on Theodore McCarrick. Cardinal Sean O’Malley of Boston told the conference on Tuesday that the report had been prepared and was awaiting papal approval before publication either before Christmas or early in the New Year. Vigneron told CNA he was eagerly awaiting the report’s release, and that it was a necessary step in healing the breach of trust between bishops and the faithful in the United States. “I think it will be good for us to understand how this evil behavior was allowed to continue in the life of someone who—in whom so much pastoral trust was placed so that we can start on a path so that we don’t do it again,” he said. As part of the related abuse scandals to hit the Church in

Vatican Media

†† VATICAN

Pope Francis hosts a pizza party for sick children in Vatican City on Dec. 17, 2017.

Pope Francis: Tech companies have a responsibility to protect children By Hannah Brockhaus

Catholic News Agency

n a speech to the head of major global tech companies, Pope Francis said Thursday that protecting children from evils such as trafficking and pornography requires a recognition of the limits of online freedom. “A crucial aspect of the problem” of child safety online “concerns the tension – which ultimately becomes a conflict – between the idea of the digital world as a realm of unlimited freedom of expression and communication, and the need for a responsible use of technologies and

28 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

consequently a recognition of their limits,” the pope said. “A fitting balance must be found between the legitimate exercise of freedom of expression and the interests of society,” he continued, “so as to ensure that digital media are not used to perpetrate criminal activities against minors.” The pope underlined the huge potential of digital technology, but noted also its negative impact when abused for “human trafficking, the planning of terrorist activities, the spread of hatred and extremism, the manipulation of information and – we

must emphasize – in the area of child abuse...” He noted that many children use cellphones, and current protections against access to pornography are inadequate; studies show, he said, that the average age of first encountering pornography is 11 – and it is lowering. “This is in no way acceptable,” he stressed. Pope Francis spoke in the Vatican’s apostolic palace to participants in a Nov. 14-15 Vatican meeting on promoting child dignity online.

they provide their customers, the pope said. “I make an urgent appeal to them to assume their responsibility towards minors, their integrity and their future,” he said. To protect minors in the digital world requires the “full involvement of companies in this sector,” he added. It also requires the companies’ “full awareness of the moral and social repercussions of their management and functioning.” “Such companies are bound not only to respect the law, but also to be concerned with the direction taken by the technological and social developments which they produce and promote, since such developments

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are far ahead of the laws that would seek to regulate them,” he said. The Vatican meeting, which continues through Friday, also has an interreligious focus, with speeches by Orthodox leader Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, Lutheran Queen Silvia of Sweden, and Muslim Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb Sheikh of Al-Azhar. Vatican City State’s new president of the tribunal Giuseppe Pignatone and Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin will also speak. The meeting is a follow-up to the 2017 Vatican and the 2018 Abu Dhabi conferences on digital child dignity.

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†† VATICAN

Sponsored by the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, the meeting included the participation of highlevel executives from Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, Google, Facebook, and Paramount Pictures. The pope said companies have long considered themselves to be mere “suppliers” of technological platforms, without having a legal or moral responsibility for how they are used. But freedom and protection of privacy must be balanced with concern for the common good, he urged. Leading technology-based companies can no longer consider themselves unaccountable for the services

†† VATICAN

Pope’s cousin, a Salesian missionary, to join papal entourage in Thailand By Hannah Brockhaus

Catholic News Agency

alesian Sister Ana Rosa Sivori, Pope Francis’ second cousin who has been a missionary in Thailand for over 50 years, will be in attendance during papal meetings in the country later this month. While in Bangkok Nov. 20-23, Sivori, 77, will be a part of the papal entourage, following the pope to all his events and encounters, according to Reuters. Pope Francis and Sivori, who grew up in Argentina together, are related through their grandfathers, who were brothers. Since Pope Francis’ election in 2013, whenever Sivori visits Argentina, she first makes a stop in Rome to see him. She said she has grown closer to him in the last few years, Reuters reports. In an interview with Italian magazine Il Mio Papa, Sivori said she is happy to be able to greet her second cousin,

but she is “especially happy for the small Catholic community here and for all the Thai people. It is a great blessing and a special gift for Thailand.” “Although Catholics here are a minority, thanks be to God there is a great religious tolerance that allows peaceful coexistence marked by simplicity and brotherhood,” she added. Sivori joined the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco, also called the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, at the age of 23. She was sent soon after, in 1966, to be a missionary in Thailand, where she has been living ever since. She is currently vice principal of St. Mary’s School in the northeastern part of Thailand, over 350 miles from the capital city of Bangkok. On the pope’s schedule in Bangkok is a meeting with King Maha Vajiralongkorn at the Amphorn Royal Palace. The pope will meet with Christian

and other religious leaders, and also with the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, who is the leader of the order of Buddhist monks in the country. He will also celebrate Mass in the National Stadium and in the Cathedral of the Assumption. Sivori told Reuters that when she and Francis talk, “we feel like brother and sister. For me, of course I know that he’s the Pope ... but we talk simply.” “When I meet him, I’ll call him by his name, Jorge. Pope Francis just came after,” she said. “I’m proud of him.” Francis’ visit to Thailand is in commemoration of the 350th anniversary of the Vatican Mission to Siam in 1669. The small Catholic community in Thailand, less than 0.5% of the mostly Buddhist population, has been celebrating the anniversary throughout 2019. After Thailand, Pope Francis will travel to Japan for three days. December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 30

†† OUR FAITH

The saints of the Christmas season

Julie Stark is the Communications Director for the Diocese of Corpus Christi.

By Julie Stark

South Texas Catholic

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hours ministering to the sick and the poor. He lived with the poorest of poor sharing their struggles and rough living. We know from his letters that he was always filled with joy. During Advent ask for his intercession to help you see Jesus in the eyes of our less fortunate brothers and sisters. St. Nicholas is also an Advent saint who’s feast day is Dec. 6. We all associate St. Nicholas with Santa Claus, this fourth-century Greek bishop was known for his faithfulness to Christ and devotion to charity. We should always remember the real St. Nicholas at this time of Advent and ask for his intercession for a charitable heart. St. Nicholas reminds us to be charitable, not only in giving back, but also in our words and our actions towards others. St. Lucy is celebrated on Dec. 13. This Advent Saint is an early Church martyr. She was executed in Syracuse, Sicily for being a Christian in the year 304. Her devotion to Christ and his resurrection was so strong that she had taken a vow of virginity. Reflecting on the love that St. Lucy had for our Lord and her belief that he is the Resurrection and the Life, should turn our hearts this Advent toward that little baby, innocent and pure, in the manger that gave his whole self so that we might have life eternal. For more saints of the Advent season go to SouthTexasCatholic.com/news/adventsaints.

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dvent is a time of expectation, of hope and of preparation for the celebration of the nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ. As I contemplate all that advent is, I am drawn to the saints that have feast days during advent. Mary of course is always top of mind – the Mother of God. There are two Marian feasts celebrated during advent: The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on Dec. 8 (this year observed on Dec. 9)and the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Dec. 12. Mary’s “yes” or her fiat to the Incarnation shows her openness to God’s plan. This is a wonderful Advent lesson for all of us! Let us all be open, during this time of preparing ourselves, to the Holy Spirit by saying yes to what God has been asking of us. For some of us it is to be reconciled to family members whom we have hurt or who have hurt us, or perhaps attend confession so that we may be reconciled to God. Perhaps God has been asking us to do more for our neighbor by helping at a homeless shelter or providing a meal for someone who is homebound. Like Mary, we should be willing to respond with a “yes” to God’s prompting. St. Francis Xavier is a saint that evangelized in the Far East. His feast day is celebrated on Dec. 3. He spent countless

December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 31

December Liturgical Calendar

VIRGIN MARY | white (Patronal Feastday of the United States of America) Solemnity [not a Holyday of Obligation] Gn 3:9-15, 20/Eph 1:3-6, 11-12/Lk 1:26-38 (689) Pss Prop

The television, internet and radio broadcasts of The Service of Lessons and Carols and the Midnight Mass at Corpus Christi Cathedral on Dec. 24 at 11:30 p.m. are presented live thanks to a generous gift from

H-E-B and its partners desire that everyone remembers the true meaning of Christmas. KDF-TV (Check cable guide for ch. #) Audio: KLUX-HD 89.5 & klux.org Live video stream: goccn.org

32 South Texas Catholic | December 2019

16 | Mon | Advent Weekday | violet | Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a/Mt 21:23-27 (187)

S UNDA Y, JA N UA RY 12, 202 0

The Oﬃce of Family Life would like to invite all couples who are celebrating their Silver (25 yrs.) or Golden (50 yrs.) Wedding Anniversary to an Anniversary Mass with Bishop Michael Mulvey at Corpus Christi Cathedral. Anniversary Mass celebration will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2020 at Corpus Christi Cathedral. Due to limited space, regretfully the couple is limited to two guests to join them for the reception. Registration deadline is Dec. 31, 2019 You may register online at Diocesecc.org/anniversary-mass

JANUARY

John Paul II 1 St. Live Nativity

Dec. 1-3, from 6-8 p.m. The entrance to the Live Nativity begins at Bishop Garriga Middle Preparatory School gates. Guests are offered cookies and hot chocolate to enjoy as they drive through. It is suggested guests might want to bring a blanket or jacket to enjoy the Christmas music. The event is free to the publc, but donations are appreciated.

9th Annual Six Mile Procession and celebration in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Dec. 8 at 9 a.m. at Sacred Heart (401 W. Willis St.) in Odem and ends at Our Lady of Guadalupe (18012 CR 1598) in Edroy where parishioners will serenade our Blessed Mother before 12 p.m. Mass. For more information call Servando Gomez at (361) 668-0842.

A Day of Recollection for all Women

Dec. 8 at the Schoenstatt Movement Center (4343 Gaines St.) in Corpus Christi from 9 a.m.3:30 p.m. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Holy Mass is at 2:30 p.m. Donation fee is $5. Lunch is available for purchase. For more information call Ana De La Rosa at (361) 688-2829.

Men’s Retreat

Our Lady of Guadalupe Annual Mass & Almuerzo

Dec. 12-15, beginning Thursday at 5:30 p.m. and ending on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). Register at deepprayer.org or call (361) 2899095, ext. 321.

Dec. 12 at St. Joseph Church (710 19th Street) in Corpus Christi. Mass and breakfast. The rosary will be prayed at 5:30

a.m.; Mass will start at 6 a.m. and there will be joyful singing, Las Mañanitas. Afterward, there will be Menudo, Tamales, Pan Dulce, Café, Chocoláte, Alabanzas and Cantos in the Annex.

Jan. 3 from 5:30-8 p.m. at Schoenstatt Movement Center (4343 Gaines) in Corpus Christi. “The Joys of Mary Ballet,” presented by ballerina instructor, Chrisi Carter and Company. Ballet performance followed by Holy Mass and fellowship. Bring a special dish to share.

Schoenstatt Family Posada Dec. 12 from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at Schoenstatt (134 Front Street) in Rockport. There will be a rosary, posada and Mass followed by covenant renewal in the shrine. Potluck dinner. Please bring a covered dish to share. For more information call the office at (361) 992-9841.

Well with Diabetes,’ 11 ‘Live a Diabetes SelfManagement Education

Jan. 11 at 9 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Academy (5814 Williams Drive) Parish Hall.

Las Posadas Navideñas

Dec. 16 beginning at 6 p.m. Nine parish homes are visited in succession as we come together with festive anticipation of our Savior’s birth. Hosted by St. Joseph religious education. For more information call (361) 882-7912.

17 by Bishop Mulvey

Women’s Retreat

Texas Rally for Life

Blessing of the People Dec. 17 from 8:30-9 a.m. at Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi, Inc. (615 Oliver Court). The distribution of toys and food will be from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information call (361) 884-0651.

Epiphany Celebration and The Joys of Mary Ballet

Diocesan NFP Class

Dec. 21 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at 1426 Baldwin in Corpus Christi. Learn to recognize the natural cycles of fertility and infertility that occur naturally in every woman. Natural Family Planning (NFP) allows couples to plan pregnancies while following the teachings of the Church and respecting the gift of their married love. Marriage formation couples should plan to begin NFP education no less than three months prior to wedding date. For more information email enguyen@diocesecc.org or visit diocesecc.org/ natural-family-planning.

Begins Thursday, Jan. 23 at 5:30 p.m. and ends Sunday, Jan. 26 at 1:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). Register ourladyofcorpuschristi.org or call 361-289-9095, ext. 321. Jan. 25 at the Capitol in Austin. Six buses have been reserved to depart from the Diocese of Corpus Christi. Please contact Nellie Serna nserna@diocesecc.org to reserve buses for your school or parish group and for group registration. Individual registration is available online diocesecc.org/texasrallyforlife.

To see more calendar events go to: SouthTexasCatholic.com/events click on Ongoing Events to the right of the screen. December 2019 | South Texas Catholic 33

†† DEC. – JAN. CALENDAR

DECEMBER

Help Us Prevent Financial Abuse The Diocese of Corpus Christi at the recommendation of the Diocesan Financial Council and Presbyteral Council have furthered their commitment to good stewardship and nancial accountability on behalf of generous donors by instituting a nancial abuse hotline. The Diocese of Corpus Christi has selected an independent third party, The Network, to provide you with a new way to anonymously and condently report nancial abuse and fraud. Employees, parishioners, volunteers, vendors and other interested parties will be encouraged to report concerns they have regarding nancial misconduct within the Diocese of Corpus Christi. All inquiries will be treated promptly and discreetly. Callers will have the right to remain anonymous. Call 1-877-571-9748

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December 2019 Issue SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 555 N Carancahua St, Ste 750 Corpus Christi, TX 78401-0824 (361) 882-6191