South Texas Catholic - June 2015 by South Texas Catholic

COMPASSION,

LOVE & GOD Make Good Fathers WWW.SOUTHTEXASCATHOLIC.COM

2 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

ON THE

VOL. 50 NO. 6

Publisher Most Rev. Wm. Michael Mulvey, STL DD Editor Alfredo E. Cárdenas ACardenas@diocesecc.org

COVER

Dan Pesek, father of four young adults, raised his family close to his God at his parish of St. Patrick in Corpus Christi. His pastor calls him a role model for men everywhere. Pesek’s says success

as a father is due to putting God and family first. Rebecca Esparaza for South Texas Catholic

Theological Consultant Father Joseph Lopez, JCL Associate Editor Mary E. Cottingham MCottingham@diocesecc.org Administrative Assistant Adel Rivera ARivera@diocesecc.org Correspondents Rebecca Esparza, Luisa Scolari, Dayna Mazzei Worchel If you or someone you know would like to receive the South Texas Catholic call us at (361) 882-6191 Office Address: 620 Lipan Corpus Christi TX 78401-2434 E-MAIL: stc@diocesecc.org www.southtexascatholic.com FAX: (361) 693-6701

21 Parishioners at Immaculate Conception in Skidmore and St. Francis Xavier in Tynan welcomed Bishop Mulvey on his pastoral visit.

Calendar Items Submit your announcements by using our Online form, e-mail, fax, 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 diocese Web sites. 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. (USPSN 540-860) Published monthly by the Diocese of Corpus Christi for $25 per year. Periodical postage paid in Corpus Christi Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to South Texas Catholic 620 Lipan, Corpus Christi TX 78401-2434. If you wish to read our Spanish language articles in English visit our Web site southtexascatholic.com and use the Google language translator. Si desea leer nuestros artículos escritos en Inglés en español, visite nuestro sitio web southtexascatholic.com y utilice el traductor de idiomas Google.

INSIDE 4 VIEWPOINTS The freedom to bear witness to Jesus Christ

NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE New program seeks to “MEND” unhealthy lifestyles for children

NEWS BRIEFS 13 Bishop Mulvey makes new pastoral assignments

VOCATIONS 16 Celebrating Consecrated Life: Living the relationship

VIDA CATOLICA 30 Arzobispo Romero: Símbolo de esfuerzos de líderes eclesiásticos para proteger rebaños

CATHOLIC EDUCATION 32 The St. John Paul II High School and Incarnate Word Academy Class of 2015

NATIONAL NEWS 37 Help us ‘go back home,’ displaced Iraqi sister urges U.S. Congress

NEWS 40 VATICAN Periphery pope: Bosnia trip aims to build bridges in divided nation

Keep up with the Faith at www.SouthTexasCatholic.com

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 3

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VIEWPOINTS

Religious Liberty:

The freedom to bear witness to Jesus Christ Bishop Michael Mulvey Most Reverend Michael Mulvey is bishop of the Diocese of Corpus Christi.

South Texas Catholic

ne of the most precious gifts God has given to the human person is the gift of freedom. Rooted in the nature of the human person, freedom is fundamental to who we are and who God wants us to be. The ability to seek the truth and live according to that truth reflects the human dignity that God has bestowed upon us as his children, made in his image and likeness. Capable of knowing, loving and serving God, the human person is called to enter into a correct relationship with him, and thus should be free to do so. Far from being simply permission to do what we please, human freedom exists in order that we can search for the truth, embrace it and live it. In short, true freedom consists

in the liberty to choose God and to shape our lives in his. This is religious liberty. It is our first and most cherished freedom since it lies at the heart of our choosing a relationship with God. Religious liberty gives us the opportunity to seek the Kingdom of God and its righteousness and to bear witness to Jesus Christ by loving God and loving our neighbor. It would be a dangerous error to think that religious liberty is something that is granted to the human person by governments, courts or any

other human power. Being rooted in our nature, like all other fundamental human rights, it must be recognized, preserved and fostered by all, including governments. Alarmingly today, religious liberty continues to be attacked and undermined by terrorists, radicals, societies and, yes, even by governments that should protect this fundamental human right and not compromise it. In many places, such as in the countries of the Middle East, our Christian brothers and sisters are facing

➤ True freedom consists in the liberty to choose God and to shape our lives in his. 4 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

Sister Anne Marie Walsh, SOLT Sister Anne Marie Walsh, SOLT is a member of the order of the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity.

Contributor

eprivation can be an awful thing. There are many serious types of poverties in the world today. But there is one class of poverty that is perhaps too easily overlooked and yet has some of the most far-reaching effects upon destiny that one can imagine. This is the poverty that comes from the lack of blessing, and specifically the lack of a father’s blessing. Scripture shows us from the very beginning of creation that there is a fundamental principle, which has not changed, a principle that is even more necessary in a fallen world. The principle: if something is to flourish, the good must be correctly recognized and properly blessed. Pure and simple! God’s joyful affirmation of the work of his own hands ignites creation’s growth and development and multiplies its fruitfulness. Our heavenly Father blesses our world from its inception. The fruit of every womb too awaits blessing, a blessing that God has willed should come in a special way from fathers. Without this blessing, even mothers can find it harder to receive their children as gifts from God. Without the blessing of fathers, millions of children never see the light of day, or, if they do, they grow up with a gnawing hunger for acceptance, for an affirmation of their very existence. In short, without the blessing of fathers—wherein the goodness of each child is personally acknowledged and celebrated—we JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 5

✝VIEWPOINTS

disturbing persecutions, torture and even martyrdom for their belief in Jesus. Their blood cries out for us to stand united in prayer and solidarity with them. We should never be complacent in the face of their suffering for we know that in the Body of Christ, when one suffers, all suffer. Their witness beckons us to proclaim Jesus Christ more profoundly in word and deed, in private and in public. It calls us to appreciate more deeply the religious liberty that we enjoy in this country and to defend it more intensely against unjust laws, practices and government mandates that cause its erosion. Our defense of religious liberty flows from our love for humanity and from the truth that the ability to seek God and give over our lives to him is essential to human dignity. Let us continue to stay alert, especially in engaging with our legislators and political leaders, so that the fundamental right of religious liberty will not be lost or eroded but rather thrive in our society and in our world. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen us in our witness. I ask each of you to pray and to offer sacrifices and fasting for those who are threatened and losing their lives, families, churches and properties.

Destiny and the blessing of fathers

✝ end up with a society of orphans who easily become enslaved. They do not have the protection they need from the exploitation of the world at large, no one to help them navigate the world’s dangers, no one to protect their dignity and keep them safe in truth and right order, no one to form them in authentic work and a vision of the eternal. The absence of a biological father increases by 900 percent a daughter’s vulnerability to rape and sexual abuse, and for boys has been linked to sexual maladjustment and greater aggressiveness or exaggerated masculine behavior. Consider these other consequences: • 85 percent of all children who show behavior disorders come from fatherless homes; • 63 percent of youth suicides are from fatherless homes; • 71 percent of all high school dropouts come from fatherless homes; • 90 percent of all homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes; • 80 percent of rapists with anger problems come from fatherless homes; • 85 percent of all youths in prison come from fatherless homes; and • 70 percent of youths in state institutions come from homes without fathers. (http://firstthings.org/ father-facts) Fathers, along with mothers, have the special task of blessing and preparing their children in order that they bring forth gifts essential for our age. The world is in desperate need of these gifts. But instead of an abundance of

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VIEWPOINTS

meaningful talent, we see among many children and young people, a massive psychological and emotional failure to thrive and an overwhelming neediness which is actually the fruit of parental selfishness and the modern love of criticism, negativity and, tragically at times, outright rejection. These are all forms of non-blessing. Today, there are mountains of books written on discipline and parenting. None of these are nearly as important as understanding the power of blessing, presence and involvement in the life of a child. It is a fundamental lesson of Genesis, where God does not create without blessing, and where things do not increase and become fruitful without blessing. Why does Jesus tell us to bless even our persecutors? Because blessing has the power to overcome all that disfigures the image and likeness of God. Blessing has the power to integrate. Blessing has a power that moves something to its fruition in God. It has the power to multiply goodness. It has the power to make holy, to sanctify. Blessing is life giving. It illuminates the core goodness of all God has created. On the other hand, the fruit of non-blessing causes people to labor under unnecessary weights and burdens that can drag them to despair and eventual destruction. This is not just a psychological principle; it is a deep spiritual one! Would there be millions upon millions of our brothers and sisters lost to abortion if the blessing of their fathers were upon them? Would there be close to 25 million children in this country alone who do not live with their biological fathers if they were received as a blessing and further blessed in thanksgiving?

If people want healing in their families, and by extension, in society, they must learn what real blessing is and start blessing. Cursing and blaspheming, berating and negative nit-picking, so prevalent today as to often go unnoticed, will bring a house, a family, to ruin in no time. Blessing stabilizes and sets the foundations for restoration, bringing the immeasurable benefits already mentioned. There is no greater need today than that the hearts of fathers be turned to their children. A child may occasionally abuse his parents’ blessing as the prodigal son did; yet it was that father’s very blessing which drew him back home and restored him. Both men and women are called to bless. Real mothers and fathers bless and prepare their children and then give them as gifts to the world, just as God bestowed his own Beloved Son. There is hope. Malachi prophesied almost 25 centuries ago: “Now I am

sending to you Elijah the prophet, Before the day of the LORD comes, the great and terrible day; He will turn the heart of fathers to their sons, and the heart of sons to their fathers, Lest I come and strike the land with utter destruction –(Mal 3: 23-24).” Scripture provides the warning, but also the remedy once we have lost the gift; “A father’s blessing gives a person firm roots...(Sir 3:9),” and “For creation awaits with eager expectation the revelation of the children of God…(Rom 8:19).” All society awaits the peace and order and benefit that will come when fathers truly learn the transforming power of God’s love, which is theirs to communicate to their children.

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VIEWPOINTS

Headlines from southtexascatholic.com ◗◗ Bookmark our Web site to keep up to date on all the happenings in the Diocese of Corpus Christi.

• Msgr. White to celebrate priestly ordination

• Deadline to apply draws near for seminarian scholarships

• Lady Angels head to TAPPS State Softball Tournament

• First Communion celebrated at St. Pius X Mission

• Stopping elder abuse is everyone’s business

• Retired Las Cruces bishop highlights Kingsville parish’s Lenten retreat

• Diocese will hold special collection to help families suffering from earthquake

• IWA Varsity Baseball Team plays ball with special-needs children

• St. Joseph in Alice celebrates patron’s day

• Communications collection helps spread the Gospel

• St. John Paul II High School STEM Club hosts robotics competition • St. John Paul II Band participates in San Antonio parade

SAVE THE DATES

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09.20.15 MIDDLE SCHOOL Richard Borchard Fairgrounds

11.21.15

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Youth Spectaculars The Diocese of Corpus Christi Youth Office is sponsoring 4 upcoming Youth Spectaculars with national keynote speakers to be announced. Learn more in the next edition of the South Texas Catholic. For more information call the Office of Youth Ministry at (361) 882-6191 or see the youth web page at: www.diocesecc.org/youth

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 7

✝ NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

New program seeks to “MEND” unhealthy lifestyles for children Mary Cottingham South Texas Catholic

ight-year-old Esmeralda Andrade raised her fist in the air and shouted “Do it!” at the Central Catholic Elementary MEND class on May 6. Andrade and mom, Blanche, along with other children between the ages of 6-13, their parents or caregivers are taking classes, which teach families to eat healthier and be more active. MEND is an acronym for Mind, Exercise, Nutrition and “Do it!” While, the first three components reflect how to make healthy lifestyle changes, by learning about making healthier meal choices, portion control and exercise –Do it! Reflects action. The free community outreach program is operated by Catholic Charities’ Healthy Living Center, which is under contract with the city to implement the program in Corpus Christi. The city of Corpus Christi and the Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health District provide funding. MEND trainers from the United Kingdom observed and participated in the May 6 class.

The trainers included Ben Jones, Dr. Zoe Williams, who is a general practitioner and Paul Sacher who has a doctorate in Child Health and is founder of the MEND program. The trainers spent four days in Corpus Christi training staff who will lead the classes. Local program leaders, Valerie Montemayor and Zach Gatlin led families through a series of activities. One activity involved nine-yearold Giovanni Montoya who showed leaders the amount of cereal he usually pours into his bowl every morning. Montoya learned that by measuring his cereal he can cut out half the calories he usually eats for that

8 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

✝NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

Blanche Andrade writes down “MEND friendly” food choices as the group offers input. Pictured from left, are Esmeralda Andrade, Paul Sacher, Blanche Andrade, Giovanni Montoya, Dr. Zoe Williams and leader Zach Gatlin. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

Eight-year-old Esmeralda Andrade leads class in the “Do it!” game at Central Catholic Elementary School. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

one meal. Each member of the class was given a free measuring cup along with a handout of low cost or free weekend activities in and around Corpus Christi that will, “get families off the couch and get them active,” program manager Angie Garcia said. The members spent about an hour in the classroom, participating in their individual groups and class discussions, covering topics such as portion control, healthy and unhealthy food groups, or as Garcia says, “MEND friendly and MEND unfriendly foods.”

While the first hour was an interactive family session, the other half of the session was filled with outside activities for the children. Gatlin combined fun and games with physical exercise, while Montemayor discussed reading food labels with parents. Classes are currently being held on Monday and Wednesday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Central Catholic Elementary School for 6-13 year-old children and their parents; at Catholic Charities on Saturday at 10 a.m. for 2-5 year-old children and their parents; and at Amistad Community Health Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:15-7:15 JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 9

✝ NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

p.m. for 6-13 year-old children and their parents. MEND families work together to learn new ways to eat healthier and live more actively. Each 10-week program offers parents the tools they need to create a brighter future for their children. To pre-register visit www.catholiccharities-cc.org/mend-registration or call (361) 442-2224, ext. 16.

Nine-year-old Giovanni Montoya pours the amount of cereal he usually has for breakfast. Giovanni learned that by measuring his cereal he can cut out half the calories he usually eats for that one meal. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

Mind Exercise Nutrition Do It

Bishop Michael Mulvey and the staff of the Office for Safe Environment and Child and Family Resources are committed to assisting in the healing process for victims and survivors of abuse. If you or someone you know is in need of such services, call Stephanie Bonilla, Director of the Office for Safe Environment and Child and Family Resources at: (361) 693-6686 (office) or (361) 658-8652 (cell) for immediate assistance.

With fun activities MEND teaches families how to be healthier and more active. Free program for ages 2-5 and 6-13.

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Msgr. Tom McGettrick’s, pocket-sized books are must reads. “I Love You, A Chat with Jesus” & “Do You Love Me, Another Chat with Jesus” are bilingual books for just $1.50 each. (shipping and handling included.)

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10 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

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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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✝ NEWS BRIEFS

Parish provides leaders for state Catholic Daughters Father Bob Dunn, pastor at Most Precious Blood in Corpus Christi, was installed recently as the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Texas State Chaplain, by Carolyn Bachmann, CDA National Director. Looking on is the new State Regent Eve Trevino, a parishioner at Most Precious Blood. On June 14, Bishop Emeritus Edmond Carmody, Father Dunn and other invited priests will celebrate a Mass in honor of Trevino and Father Dunn. National and state dignitaries of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas will attend the “Change of Power” at Most Precious Blood, beginning at 12:15 p.m.

Pro-life Mass of KEDT-TV will air documentary on Catholic Thanksgiving planned There will be a Mass of Thanksgiving in celebration Sisters in America of the one year anniversary of the closing of the last KEDT-TV, the local public television station, will air the documentary Women and Spirit: Catholic Sisters in America on June 25 at 8 p.m. Cokie Roberts narrates the documentary that chronicles the presence and efforts of Catholic Sisters in the United States from 1727 to the present. It is a story of quiet courage during many dramatic moments in U.S. history. Viewers will discover the mystery behind the community of innovative women who helped shape the nation’s social, cultural and spiritual landscape. They will meet women who corresponded with President Thomas Jefferson, nursed soldiers on the battlefields of the Civil War, created health insurance for Midwestern loggers, cared for the sick in epidemics, helped in the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous, marched with civil rights leaders and are on the front lines today addressing global crisis. For more information or to buy the DVD go to www. lcwr.org and click on publications.

12 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

abortion clinic in Corpus Christi. The event takes place on Saturday, June 20 at 9 a.m. at St. Joseph Church on 710 19th Street in Corpus Christi. After Mass there will be a procession to 1901 Morgan Avenue for a Pro Life Rally at 10:30 a.m. Pro-life advocates, now deceased, will be remembered; including Father Michael Jordan, Therese Perez, Juanita Cortinas, San Juanita Vela, Betty Harris and Cliff Zarsky.

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Bishop Michael Mulvey will ordain Deacons Jeremy Davis, SOLT and Beau Schweitzer, SOLT to the priesthood on June 6 at 10 a.m. at Corpus Christi Cathedral. They are members of Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity. Deacon Davis, 32, grew up in a suburb of Kansas City, Kansas. After graduating from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas he volunteered for two years as a teacher in a Catholic high school in Belize, Central America. In Belize, Deacon Davis heard his call Deacon to religious life and the priestJeremy Davis, hood. He entered the SOLT SOLT novitiate in 2008. Deacon Schweitzer, 36, grew up in a small town in Idaho. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame he volunteered for three years at an orphanage in Honduras and taught for two years at a Catholic high school in the inner Deacon Beau city of Los Angeles. Deacon Schweitzer, Schweitzer also entered the SOLT novitiate in 2008. “Deacon Beau and I look forward to our priestly ordination with gratitude and joy. Rejoicing with the Church and our community, we cannot wait to see how God will accomplish his beautiful designs. Please pray for us,” Deacon Davis said. Both deacons made First Promises with SOLT on June 6, 2009 in Capulin, Colorado. They made Perpetual Promises on Jan. 24, 2014 in Corpus Christi and were ordained to the diaconate on April 12, 2014 in Detroit, Michigan. A reception will follow at Our Lady of Corpus Christi on 1200 Lantana St.

✝NEWS BRIEFS

Two SOLT deacons will be ordained to the priesthood

For the good of the people of God in the Diocese of Corpus Christi, Bishop Michael Mulvey has made the following pastoral assignments that will take effect on July 1. Father Paul Peter Antony will serve as chaplain at Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary in Lamar. Father Christopher Becerra will serve as parochial vicar, St. Patrick Parish in Corpus Christi. Father Varghese K. Ethappiri will serve as pastor of Our Lady of Consolation in Vattmann, Sacred Heart Mission in Ricardo and Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission in Rivera. Father Jose Gutierrez will serve as pastor of Immaculate Conception in Taft. Father Paulson A. Panakal will serve as pastor or Holy Family Parish in Taft.

Father Francis Sebastian, MST will serve as administrator of St. Mary Parish in Freer. Father Ponnuswamy R. Victor will serve as pastor at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Tivoli, Saint Dennis Mission in O’Connor Ranch and Saint Anthony of Padua Mission in Austwell. Father Dennis P. Zerr, Pastor, Sacred Heart Parish in Falfurrias and Saint Anne Mission in Encino. Father Roy Kalayil will serve as administrator of Holy Cross Parish and Chaplain of Pax Christi Institute in Corpus Christi, effective Aug. 1. Father Matthew Stephan will retire to the St. John Vianney Residence. Father Sebastian Thomas has been called back to his home diocese in India.

Bishop will award Evangelii Gaudium awards after vigil on Feast of Corpus Christi Bishop Michael Mulvey will present the Evangelii Gaudium Awards on Saturday, June 6, at the Cathedral at the conclusion of the Feast of Corpus Christi Vigil Mass at 5:30 p.m. The award recognizes and acknowledges individuals and couples for their exemplification of Gospel

values at their local parish. Pastors recommended recipients for this diocesan recognition. The recipients must demonstrate in their lives the Word of God in action through service, be both humble and joyful, and be in good standing with the Catholic Church.

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 13

✝ VOCATIONS

Why do we say “And with your spirit?” The Words of the Mass Reveal the Essence of the Priesthood Father Joseph Lopez, JCL Contributor

Father Joseph Lopez, JCL, is Vocations Director for the Diocese of Corpus Christi.

hat can the words of the Mass teach us about the priesthood? Plenty, says Msgr. James Moroney, a scholar and powerful speaker who has traveled the country and prepared priests for the implementation of the revised English translation of the Mass. “The liturgy itself tells us who the priest is,” Msgr. Moroney said. “The prayers of the Roman Rite are unequivocal in the way they reveal the essence of the priesthood.” This is readily apparent in the case of the exchange between the priest and the congregation, if we understand what it means. “The Lord be with you,” says the priest, and the people respond, “And with your spirit.” This is an ancient formula dating back to the third century. In fact, its roots are even older, based on when God shared Moses’ spirit with the 70 Hebrew elders (cf Nm 11.) In the context of the Mass, the “spirit” referred to is the priestly character of the

ordained minister. Each time this exchange occurs in the Mass— and it happens five times—it is a “statement of right relationship” between the minister and the people, Msgr. Maroney explains. Another example is similarly enlightening. At the offertory, the priest says, “Pray that my sacrifice and yours…” This emphasizes that the priest is standing in the person of Christ, essentially offering the same sacrifice that Christ offered on the cross. It also emphasizes that the people are offering their own sacrifice—their very lives—that are joined together with the offering of bread and wine. “The venerable prayers articulate a vision of priesthood characterized by sacrifice,

obedience and, most of all, conformity to the person of Christ,” Msgr. Maroney says. One further point worth mentioning is a sentence in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (the “instructions” for the Mass). Speaking of the priest, it reads, “By his bearing, and by the way he says the divine words, he must convey to the faithful the living presence of Christ.” These instructions point out what we all know from experience to be true—that we are more easily drawn into the Sacred Mysteries by a sincere and holy priest. Is Jesus, the Great High Priest, calling you to stand in his person and offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass?

❝The prayers of the Roman Rite are unequivocal in the way they reveal the essence of the priesthood.❞ ~Msgr. James Moroney

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✝VOCATIONS

Persisting in prayer ❝Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.❞ ~St. Augustine

Father Joseph Lopez, JCL Contributor

t is important to remember that while active ministry bears much fruit, we should never forget the efficacy of prayer. St. Monica’s son Augustine was hopelessly separated from God, but she never stopped praying for his conversion, and after 17 years, she saw it. Her prayers led to the conversion of one of the great Doctors of the Church. On a much larger scale, in 1881, a group of Catholic mothers in the city of Lu, Italy, were lamenting the small town’s lack of priests and religious. Desperately wanting to make a difference, the women began meeting weekly in the parish church to pray to Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Over the next 60 years a miracle happened; 323 men and women from that small town became priests or religious. In all, one-third of the

population was ordained or professed religious vows. And it all began with the intercession of a few devoted souls. This amazing testament to the power of prayer should inspire all Catholics to pray that more young people hear and respond to God’s call to the priesthood or religious life. Will your prayers for vocations lead to one-third of your parish discovering a call to the priesthood or religious life? Maybe not, but without prayer,

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it is awfully difficult for anybody to hear God’s call. Whenever possible pray for vocations together. In the words of St. John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests, “Private prayer is like straw scattered here and there: If you set it on fire it makes a lot of little flames. But gather these straws into a bundle and light them, and you get a mighty fire, rising like a column into the sky; public prayer is like that.”

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JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 15

✝ VOCATIONS

Sister Annette Wagner, IWBS is Director of the Office of Consecrated Life for the Diocese of Corpus Christi.

Celebrating Consecrated Life:

LIVING THE RELATIONSHIP Sister Annette Wagner, IWBS Contributor

ne of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of consecrated life is the essential element of community. Like the first disciples of Jesus, consecrated women and men often find themselves in relationships with others simply because they have been called together by the same loving God. They may even laughingly admit that they never would have met each other if it had not been for that common call. They can also add a more serious note. Living in a community of individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences is enriching—both for the individual and for the life of the community as a whole. Each member brings with them family experiences, traditions and formation; previous work, relationship and life lessons; strengths and wounds—all shared to become the reality of that local community and of the total congregation. In

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and through community life, each member can be challenged and strengthened; can discover fullness of life and grow into a graced wholeness. So what holds them together? How do they live community? By sharing in communion. Community, communion—two words intertwined in meaning and experience. Looking at the Latin origin of these two words sheds more light. Both come from the combination of two words: munus meaning “gift,”

and cum meaning “together” or “among each other.” Further examination of these root meanings affirms that being in physical proximity is not enough. People in an elevator qualify for that description. Community can be defined as a group of people who welcome and help develop the gifts of each individual member AND from whom the individual member can expect to receive gifts in return. Thus an uncertain member may be challenged

✝ VOCATIONS

to use talents that her sisters in community may recognize in her. A faltering member may be strengthened by his brothers’ faithful daily living of their common commitment. Likewise—as Paul reminds the members of the Corinth community—gifts given to the individual are for the benefit of the community . No gift of the Spirit is given for exclusive benefit of the individual recipient. Therefore real community living involves communion among its members. The word communion suggests a significant exchange of thoughts and feelings on a mental or spiritual level leading to a sense of fellowship with others who share attitudes, interests and goals. These two terms are two sides of the same coin. True sharing involves

a consistent openness to being affected by the exchange of spiritual treasures. With this openness to change comes openness to union with those involved in the sharing. Such receptivity can lead to growth for the individual and the community. And what are the treasures to be shared? The gifts that bind community members together are the charism and spirituality of the congregation; the call to service expressed in the congregation’s stated mission; the congregation’s style of living the evangelical vows of poverty, celibate chastity and obedience; the congregation’s chosen patterns of prayer. All these experiences–authentically lived– both form and bind a community into a true communion. When Jesus sent his disciples out on

their first missionary expedition, he counseled them: what they had been freely given, they were freely to give to those in need (Mt 10:8). Those who authentically live communion as a religious community truly have much to share with those they encounter in their field of ministry. Since they carry that desire and ability for communion with them, they are often the spark that ignites, strengthens and supports an appropriate level of community among those with whom and to whom they minister. Community endures—flourishes— as the observable fruit of the more intangible but very real communion. Such is one of the gifts that consecrated life offers to its members and the world—the gift of sharing that leads to unity.

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✝ VOCATIONS

Sister Marian touched the lives of many children and their families Sister Juliane Kuntscher, IWBS Contributor

❝

am very grateful to God for the 60 blessed years given to me as a Sister of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament,” Sister Marian Bradley said on occasion of her 60th jubilee celebration. “What a joy it is to serve the Lord and His people.” Sister Marian was born Helen Frances in the Bronx, New York. She was the seventh of eight children born to Patrick and Margaret O’Callaghan Bradley. Across the street from the Bradley residence was St. Luke parish, where Sister Marian was baptized into the Catholic faith. The parish became an integral part of their lives. It is where she attended elementary school and received the sacraments of the Church. Sister Marian credits the nuns at St. Luke, in addition to her teachers, for being a great influence in her life. On Aug. 14, 1953, one month shy of her 15th birthday, Helen Frances Bradley came to Corpus Christi to join the Incarnate Word Convent. Two of her siblings, Sister Margaret Patrice Bradley and Sister Christina Bradley, who had entered seven years earlier, and two cousins, Sister Noreen Begley and Sister Camelia Herlihy, welcomed her to the convent, which would be her home for decades. Sister Marian was reunited, at the same time, with her

18 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

great aunt, Mother Antoinette Begley, who had always been an influence in her life. She professed first vows on June 4, 1955, and perpetual vows Aug. 14, 1960. In 1954, Sister Marian had her first classroom experience as a novice teacher. A new kindergarten and nursery wing was built at Incarnate Word Academy in 1955, and it was there that Sister Marian taught her first preschool class. “There were few tools and supplies with which to work in teaching during those days–a chalk board, chalk, pencils and paper. One relied on her God-given talents, making posters or teaching aids. There were no classroom assistants or custodians, and the open window was the air conditioner,” Sister Marian said. She taught for 57 years in schools in Corpus Christi, Kingsville, Brownsville and Laredo. In 1983, she began to study and teach the Montessori Method at Incarnate Word Academy, where she ministered for 27 years.

Sister Marian Bradley

Within that time span, Sister Marian compiled a combined phonics and math program, titled “Sounds and Numbers,” best used with the materials in a Montessori setting for children, ages four, five and six. She developed several learning tools, having authored 23 reading booklets with comprehension worksheets. This material has copyright status, and is still in use by teachers and students in the Montessori program. Though Sister Marian retired from formal teaching a few years ago, her influence still permeates the Montessori classrooms. She has influenced and touched the lives of many children and their families. Sister Marian is also an artist. “She is able to produce a beautiful painting from scratch,” Sister Mary Anne Pagano said. One of her velvet paintings of the Infant Incarnate Word hangs in the front office of the motherhouse. She

✝ VOCATIONS

has done paintings on cloth, depicting Bible stories for her Montessori students. “Throughout her years of consecrated life, Sister Marian has used her creative abilities in a variety of ways,” Sister Judith Marie Saenz said. “Whether it was teaching Montessori, creating a bulletin board display or even writing her own math book, she found ways to touch the lives of those with whom and to whom she ministered. Her goal has always been to enable others to understand how much God loves each person. As sacristan at the Motherhouse, Sister Marian continues to use her artistic talents as she faithfully prepares the liturgical space in the chapel.” Sister Marian has been involved in service on various commissions and committees of the congregation. She was assigned for a period of time to the position of sister-in-charge at the Incarnate Word Motherhouse in Corpus Christi. In 2010, after retiring from the teaching ministry, Sister Marian was assigned as sacristan in the motherhouse chapel. She engages in other duties as well, in service to the Incarnate Word and to the community. “I am grateful to each person who has been an important part of these 60 years. May the Incarnate Word guide us as we continue to serve him and to support one another in our common quest,” Sister Marian said.

‘Sister Patrice has a beautiful, thoughtful and kind spirit’ Sister Juliane Kuntscher, IWBS Contributor

od’s call to consecrated life offered me the opportunity to spread the love of the Incarnate Word throughout the various areas of Texas,” said Sister Mary Patrice Floyd, a sister of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sister Mary Patrice Floyd Sacrament. “God has blessed me, as a sister, to help bring the people I meet and work with closer to him and his most holy mother.”

❝

Her parents, Franklin Jay and Rita Gollihar Floyd, named her Joyce Ann. She was born in Corpus Christi and was baptized at the old St. Patrick Cathedral. She received her elementary education at Incarnate Word Academy and Christ the King, the family’s parish, and Incarnate Word Academy High School, graduating in 1957. She entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament on Sept. 7, 1962, and made first profession of vows at Incarnate Word Convent in Corpus Christi on June 5, 1965. She professed perpetual vows on Aug. 2, 1969.

Sister Patrice studied at Del Mar College, at St. Louis University in Missouri and Texas A&I University in Kingsville. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1965 and a master’s degree, with a major in education, in 1975. She did post-graduate work in counseling and theology at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. Sister Patrice served in three different dioceses, including Corpus Christi, San Antonio and Fort Worth. In Corpus Christi she served as a teacher and administrator at Cathedral, Christ the King, Most Precious Blood, St. Pius X, St. Patrick, Sacred Heart and Incarnate JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 19

✝ VOCATIONS

Word Junior High School, which she was instrumental in opening. In the Archdiocese of San Antonio she served as principal of St. Ann’s School and in the Diocese of Fort Worth she was Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and interim principal of All Saints School. Sister Patrice was also instrumental in opening St. Matthew School in San Antonio and South Arlington Catholic School, now known as Holy Rosary School. In 1985, Sister Patrice was awarded the National Award for Excellence in education while she was principal at St. Patrick School in Corpus Christi. She was nominated for top 100 USA Principals in Today’s Catholic Teacher. Sister Patrice also served as accreditation chairperson and team member for schools in Rockport, Alice, Dallas, El Paso and Corpus Christi.

Sister Patrice has served as chair and member of numerous committees and commissions of the congregation, and as an elected delegate to the congregation’s General Chapter. Presently Sister Patrice volunteers her services as seamstress for the sisters and takes her turn in the front office for phone duty at the motherhouse. She also does volunteer work at Driscoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi. In January 2013, Sister Patrice was elected parliamentarian of the Corpus Christi Driscoll Children’s’ Hospital Auxiliary Council and Recording Secretary of District 3 Auxiliary Hospitals Council. Once a month she meets with the Theresians, a group of ladies who gather at Incarnate Word Convent for Mass, spiritual classes and faith sharing. Reflecting upon Sister Patrice’s gifts

and talents, Sister Elizabeth Close said, “Sister Patrice has a beautiful, thoughtful and kind spirit. On many occasions, of her own initiative, she has sewed aprons, small cloths, maps and books for use in the Montessori classrooms. I appreciate her generosity and kindness of heart.” “For the past 50 years, I have had the opportunity to serve my sisters in community, my friends and family as an Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament Sister. I was privileged to be instrumental in the education of the young children of Texas in many cities,” Sister Patrice said. “I especially wish to thank the sisters in my community, as well as my family and friends for their support and love during the last 50-plus years. May we all continue to spread the love of the Incarnate Word throughout the world.”

SAVE THE DATE: OCTOBER 24, 2015

“Behold, I Make All Things New!” –Rev. 21:5

Catholic Charismatic Renewal Conference OF THE DIOCESE OF CORPUS CHRISTI

At St. Patrick Catholic Church

3350 S OUTH A LA MEDA STREET, CORPUS CHRIST I, T E X A S 7 8 4 1 1

Celebration of Holy Mass

Bishop Michael Mulvey and Bishop Emeritus Sam Jacobs, Houma-Thibodaux, LA For more information call CCR at (361) 850-3281

20 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

✝PARISH LIFE

The original Immaculate Conception Church in Skidmore served as a center of rural ministry in Bee County area.

skidmore parish:

Archives photo

Rediscovering rich Catholic heritage Alfredo E. Cárdenas South Texas Catholic

n May 1900, Bishop Peter Verdaguer confirmed 41 at Immaculate Conception in Skidmore in a crowded church “to which many could not gain admittance,” wrote the Southern Messenger in its May 31, 1900 issue. The congregation had not yet achieved parish status–that would come in 1915–but had already been around for nearly a decade. On Sunday, May 10–110 years later, Bishop Michael Mulvey made a pastoral visit to Immaculate Conception and its Mission St. Francis Xavier in Tynan, and while the small church was not packed, there was an atmosphere

of renewal. “It has a rich history,” Father Tom Goodwin, administrator of Immaculate Conception, said. “Like all parishes, it has had its ups and downs, but today it is a story of JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 21

✝ PARISH LIFE

Father Tom Goodwin, at left, concelebrated Mass with Bishop Mulvey at Immaculate Conception in Skidmore and St. Francis Xavier in Tynan. Holding the Missal for Bishop Mulvey is Cameron Guerrero. Holding the crosier is Jesse Sabala and holding the bishop’s mitre is Dani Avarado. Alfredo E. Cárdenas, South Texas Catholic

renewal in the country.” As early as 1893, the Southern Messenger mentions a faith community in Skidmore with pioneer priest Father Ferdinand Joseph Goebbels as its spiritual leader. It had its beginnings at nearby Olmos around 1891. In 1898, Father Goebbels ordered a bell weighing 200 pounds for the church in Skidmore. Six years later, in 1904, he celebrated the first midnight Mass in Skidmore. He preached in Spanish, English and German. Twelve years after Bishop Verdaguer’s confirmation visit, the Messenger reported that Catholics in Skidmore had become indifferent because they had lost their priest. Not only did they not have a priest for a number of years, they learned that their beloved Father Goebbels tragically perished in a fire at St. Boniface in Corpus Christi

22 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

early in 1912. Many men had not been seen in church for some time. But in March 1912 Father Albert Stroebele from Hobson began tending to the flock and the faithful responded. The people surprised Father Stroebele, who traveled 60 miles every other Sunday to celebrate Mass, with “electric lights in church and a new picket fence.” Two months later they had remodeled the altar, installed a statute of the Sacred Heart and another of St. Anthony, secured an enlarged tabernacle, built a place for exposition and purchased new vestments and banners. That year they had a first communion class of 40. In 1915, Bishop Paul Nussbaum designated Immaculate Conception a full parish and named Father J.J. Steines as its first resident pastor. A

fire in 1928 razed the rectory and the present church was built in 1942. Twenty-five years later, brick was used to cover the church. For a decade, from 1958-1967, Immaculate Conception did not have a resident priest and the Altar Society maintained the church. In 1967 the priests with the Congregation of the Missionaries of the Holy Family took charge of the parish. In 1983 the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity began to minister to the parish and did so until 2001 when diocesan priests were assigned. Today, the parish has some 120 registered families and an enrollment of 50 students in its Religious Education program. Sixteen young people will be confirmed this year and a like number will make their first communion.

✝ PARISH LIFE

This year the parish will observe its centennial and plans are being developed for a celebration during its feast day on December 8. While the centennial celebration is still months away, Bishop Mulvey paid a visit to Immaculate Conception and St. Francis Xavier on a special day–Mothers Day. “Special greeting to all your mothers who are here and who are not able to be here, and also in remembrance for those who have died and gone before us in faith,” Bishop Mulvey told the congregation. He went on to explain the true meaning of love, which is lived by most mothers. Too often, the bishop said “we use the word love loosely” and it loses its meaning. The true meaning of love should not be confused with physical needs or lust.

To see more photos of this event go to:

SouthTexasCatholic.com South Texas

Catholic

“That’s not love, that’s a distortion,” he said. “True love is rooted in God; pure love is God,” Bishop Mulvey said. “So love is a sacred reality, whether it is the love between a husband and wife, between a mother and children, the love of children for their mother, it’s a sacred reality.” He said love takes the initiative, without expecting anything in return, without any interest of getting something back. God does not expect anything from us but love in return. “A mother’s love exemplifies that. Mothers love unselfishly, in most cases, without expectations,” Bishop Mulvey said. The early apostles, the bishop said, loved everyone. “We’re really not disciples of Jesus if we don’t...love is not true if we don’t at least try to love

everyone,” the bishop said. “Love isn’t something you can buy at the store, it is something we do,” he said. He cautioned parishioners not to block people out of their lives, but to take the initiative to love people by extending a simple hello and spending time with them. “That is what love is; that’s what our mothers have done for us,” Bishop Mulvey said. Father Goodwin, who celebrated his 29th anniversary as a priest on Sunday during the bishop’s visit, said that 63 percent of the census area in which Skidmore is located is Roman Catholic. At one time, he said, Immaculate Conception was a center for rural ministry and it can be again. With an active parish council and finance committee, the work at renewal is underway.

Bishop Mulvey also visited St. Francis Xavier in Tynan, a mission of Immaculate Conception in Skidmore. Alfredo E. Cárdenas, South Texas Catholic

SERVING THE CHURCH IN THE DIOCESE OF CORPUS CHRISTI

SouthTexasCatholic.com/news/Skidmore

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 23

✝ NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

Don Pesek enjoys time with family on pilgrimage to the Holy Land; from left are, Tommy, Paul, Don Pesek, Maggie, wife Cil and Kevin. Contributed photo

24 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

✝ NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

Celebrating dads: Father of four a role model for others Rebecca Esparza

Correspondent

nruly teenager? Pre-teen with an attitude? No problem, said Don Pesek. The father of four grown children and longtime parishioner at St. Patrick in Corpus Christi noted it is important to remember that God has a plan for everyone. “The road our children take will have hills and valleys and probably a few curves,” he chuckled. “We love them unconditionally even though we may not condone their actions or choices. Most importantly, God forgives through the awesome Sacrament of Reconciliation.” Pesek and his wife Cil have raised four children with the same compassion and love that has guided them their entire lives. And their dedication has paid off in dividends. Their oldest, 28-year-old Kevin is the Campus Minister at Texas A&M-College Station and holds a master’s in theology. Paul, 25, graduated from Texas A&M-College Station and is currently discerning a life dedicated to the priesthood. Tommy, 21, has recently graduated from Texas A&M-College Station and is a musician. The youngest, Maggie, 19, just finished her freshman year at Texas A&M-College Station and is home for the summer. “My priorities in life have always been: God and family. Everything else is a distant third. If you make time for God, you will make time for everything else,” he said.

Pesek lives up to his word. His list of volunteer activities at church are bountiful: from being active in the ACTS community, to the Knights of Columbus, to being a Scout Master for seven years, to his participation in the Fullness of Truth Conference. His volunteerism at church knows no bounds. “I’m thankful to have the opportunity to serve the Lord. When people ask me when do I have time for everything, I tell them to ask God for the time. He’ll give the time you give to the Church back to you a hundred times over,” he explained. Msgr. Roger Smith, pastor at St. Patrick, called Pesek a role model for men everywhere. “He has a deep faith and love of God. He is a very committed and loving husband and dedicated father to his four children. He is dedicated to the Church, evangelization and to serving the Church in whatever way he can. He is a daily communicant. He took on the position of our Troop’s Scout Master for several years and knows how to challenge a young man to be the best that he can be. Even though he is now no longer the Scout Master, he still instructs the scouts who are

interested in earning their religious awards,” Msgr. Smith said. He added Pesek’s dedication for young people does not stop with his own children. “As a father, Don’s greatest desire is that his children be virtuous adults, strong and faith-filled Catholics and that they get to heaven,” he said. “I believe this has been the focus of his example, teaching and prayers not only for his own children, but for all the young men he has had an opportunity to influence.” Pesek acknowledged raising children in today’s fast-paced digital world might not be the easiest task. But he warned parents to stay away from the traps of the materialistic world, like amassing things such as fancy cars or expensive houses. “I want to encourage people to spend time with their families. Spend time with your children while they are young. You will never get that time back. Families are a gift from God. Don’t give it back to God, cherish it,” he said. The priority for his children has always been to help them get to heaven and “getting their souls right.” He has JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 25

✝ NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

Four generations of Pesek men share time at St. Patrick Church in Corpus Christi. From left, they are dad Kevin, grandfather Don, son Noah and great-grandfather VJ. Rebecca Esparza for South Texas Catholic

strived to ensure that God is at the center of their lives and they have embraced that spirituality and each one of them continue to carry it with them to this day. Pesek recalled a family trip to the Holy Land in 2009 was a financial stretch, but was the trip of a lifetime. “I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. It was the best vacation ever and we spent it together, as a family,” he said. When parents or those who play a significant role in children’s lives get frustrated with them, Pesek says it is important to remember their parish

26 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

priest is there to offer assistance. “Ask your pastor for guidance and direction. Let them play a significant role in your life. My kids grew up around priests. We had them over for dinner or went fishing together. Priests have been mentors for my entire family,” he said. “My wife and I are forever grateful for the wonderful priests and sisters of our diocese that have been such a positive influence on our children’s spiritual lives,” he said. “What a blessing it has been to bring up a family in the city of The Body of Christ!” Pesek acknowledged when times

are tough, it might seem easy to come down hard on children, especially when as a parent, you know the potential is there for them to flourish. He said when this happens, take a step back and always fall back on prayer. “Never underestimate the power of prayer,” he said. “When our children do not live up to expectations, it’s important that you ask them ‘Did you do your best’ or ‘Do you feel that was your best effort?’ It takes patience, perseverance and humility,” Pesek said. “But we hope that our kids learn from their mistakes and grow in Christianity.”

SAVE

the

DATE

01.09.16

MARK YOUR CALENDARS TO ATTEND THIS UPCOMING FAMILY EVENT

Ministry Conference for the whole family & Mini-Youth Spectacular American Bank Center

Learn more in the next edition of the South Texas Catholic. For more information call the Office of Pastoral Parish Services at (361) 882-6191

The

What’s Happening IN JUNE Divine Mercy Retreat June 11-14 Men’s Spiritual Exercises Retreat June 18-21 Marian Consecration Day of Prayer June 27 World Wide Marriage Encounter June 26-28 1200 Lantana St. Corpus Christi TX 361-289-9095 www. deepprayer.org

and

Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity

Our Lady of Corpus Christi

Congratulate

Deacon Jeremy Davis, SOLT Deacon Beau Schweitzer, SOLT being ordained to the

Sacred PRIESTHOOD

Corpus Christi Cathedral June 6, 2015 10am Reception following at Our Lady of Corpus Christi-1200 Lantana St. JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 27

✝ VIDA CATOLICA

Fe y rezos fortalece la familia Luisa Scolari Corresponsal

a fe, el Diácono Manuel Ernesto Maldonado dijo, es lo que le ha ayudado a mantener su familia fuerte y unida. Y el rezar uno por el otro.

“Como familia oramos unidos durante los alimentos y nuestros hijos se enseñaron desde pequeños a pedir por otros,” el diácono dijo. El Diácono Maldonado y Beatrice Irene, su esposa de 57 años, tienen cuatro de familia. Michael, el hijo mayor, nació en San Antonio y se graduó de abogado. Por su trabajo en la Fuerza Aérea, el Diácono Maldonado fue trasladó a Turquía donde el segundo hijo Dino nació en Ankara. Hoy Dino Maldonado es consultor de negocios. Tiempo después la familia se regreso a San Antonio en donde nació Mónica que actualmente es enfermera en Bay Area Hospital. Posteriormente la familia se cambió a Florida por nueve años en donde nació Martín, el

Diácono Manuel Maldonado y su esposa Beatriz Irene criaron cuatro hijos con la guía de Dios y de su Iglesia y se dedican a su familia, a Dios y a la Iglesia diariamente. Luisa Scolari para South Texas Catholic

28 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | JUNE 2015

mas joven de la familia, quien trabaja en programación de computadoras. “Me gusta mucho disfrutar la vida en familia y me voy de pesca o a jugar golf con mis tres hijos y en las fechas especiales como Navidad y acción de gracias siempre nos reunimos,” el Diácono Maldonado dijo. “Rezamos

juntos el Santo Rosario y la Divina Misericordia y leemos muchos libros religiosos en Inglés y Español.” Actualmente el Diácono Maldonado es diácono en la iglesia de Nuestra Señora de San Juan de los Lagos, Madre de la Iglesia en Corpus Christi. Tiene el apoyo de su esposa

de Iniciación de Católicos Adultos). El diácono Maldonado también presenta, una vez al mes, el retiro diocesano PRECANA para parejas que se van a casar. “Tengo más de 50 años asistiendo a la misa diaria y eso me da mucha fortaleza,” el Diácono Maldonado dijo. “Como matrimonio asistimos juntos a la misa diaria.” El consejo que el les da a los jóvenes es que “recen mucho para que Dios les mande la pareja correcta.”

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, Director de la Oficina de un Ambiente Seguro y de Servicios para Niños y Familia: (361) 693-6686 (oficina) ó (361) 658-8652 (celular) para asistencia inmediata.

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

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

El enlace a la buena salud:

Programa de Radio en Español en KLUX 89.5 HD-1 y “Listen Live” en KLUX.org Domingos a las 7:00 a.m. con el P. Juan Fernando Gámez P. José Naúl Ordóñez

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CHIP/Children’s Medicaid cubre cuidado dental, anteojos, recetas médicas, y visitas al doctor. Con $50 o menos asegura a todos sus niños por un año. Para saber si califica, visite CHIPmedicaid.org el enlace a la buena salud para su familia. Solicite por Internet o llame a cualquier hora. CHIPmedicaid.org 2-1-1

HHSC-0459_SouthTexasCatholic_3n6x2n3_SPAN_V2.indd 1

2/4/15 10:12 AM

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 29

✝VIDA CATÓLICA

que también participa en la parroquia en su ministerio de la Eucaristía. Junto con un grupo de ministras de la Eucaristía se encargan de la limpieza de la iglesia los martes, además lavan y planchan los manteles y linos y limpian los cálices y cirios. El Diácono Maldonado se recibió como diácono en Septiembre 1976 en San Angeló, Texas donde estaba estacionado con las Fuerzas Aéreas. Se ubico a Corpus Christi en 1999, donde vivían cinco de sus siete nietos. Cuando llegaron a Corpus Christi se inscribieron en la parroquia de la Sagrada Familia donde estuvieron por siete años. Estuvieron muy involucrados en las actividades parroquiales y después se cambiaron a la misión de la Sagrada Familia porque en ese tiempo no había quien predicara en español. Actualmente continúa impartiendo pláticas espirituales en español en los cursillos y pláticas pre-matrimoniales de comunicación. También prepara el papeleo en español e inglés para los que se van a casar. También se encarga una vez por semana, mayormente en español, con el programa RITO (Rito

✝ VIDA CATOLICA

Arzobispo Romero: Símbolo de esfuerzos de líderes eclesiásticos para proteger rebaños Gente llevan retratos del arzobispo salvadoreño Oscar Romero durante una reunión para rendir homenaje al fallecido arzobispo, que fue asesinado hace 35 años. Monseñor Romero, que fue beatificado en San Salvador el 23 de mayo se ha convertido en un símbolo de los esfuerzos de los líderes de la iglesia de América Latina ‘para proteger sus rebaños de los abusos de las dictaduras militares. Roberto Escobar para Catholic News Service

Por Cindy Wooden

Catholic News Service

l arzobispo salvadoreño Oscar Romero, quien fue beatificado en San Salvador el 23 de mayo, se ha convertido en un símbolo de los esfuerzos de los líderes eclesiásticos para proteger sus rebaños de los abusos de las dictaduras militares. Sin embargo, su vida y los 35 años que le tomó al Vaticano reconocerlo como mártir también reflejan décadas de discusión teológica y pastoral sobre la línea divisoria entre la acción pastoral y el activismo político bajo regímenes represivos. El arzobispo Romero fue asesinado el 24 de marzo de 1980 mientras celebraba Misa. El intenso tumulto en El Salvador coincidió con un periodo de intenso cuestionamiento dentro de la iglesia mientras los pastores en países bajo dictaduras militares, guerras

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civiles u opresión comunista intentaban encontrar las mejores maneras de ser fieles a su misión de ministrarles a sus rebaños mientras defendían sus derechos. Durante esos años el Vaticano hizo frecuentes llamados a sacerdotes y obispos, especialmente en América Latina y en África, a mantenerse fuera de la política partidista. Pero los regímenes represivos fácilmente decidieron que los eclesiásticos que denunciaran los abusos de los derechos humanos estaban entrometiéndose en la política.

El padre jesuita James R. Brockman, autor de una biografía del arzobispo, como muchos historiadores y simpatizantes de la beatificación del arzobispo Romero, dijo que cuando el obispo Romero fue nombrado arzobispo de San Salvador en 1977 él era conocido como “conservador” y hubo una amplia asunción de que no retaría directamente a los gobernantes de país. Oscar Romero nació el 15 de agosto de 1917 en Ciudad Barrios, segundo de siete hijos. Aunque no era considerada pobre, la familia no tenía electricidad ni agua potable y los niños dormían en el piso. Oscar comenzó trabajando como aprendiz de carpintero cuando tenía 12 años de edad, pero decidió entrar en el seminario menor para continuar su educación. Después de estudios en el seminario menor San Miguel, él se transfirió al seminario mayor en San Salvador y fue enviado a Roma, donde estudió en la Pontifica Universidad Gregoriana. Él fue ordenado al sacerdocio el 4 de abril de 1942 en la capilla del Colegio Latinoamericano. Regresando a El Salvador en 1944, él trabajó sacerdote parroquial en la Diócesis de San Miguel, luego convirtiéndose en el secretario diocesano, puesto que ocupó durante 23 años. Durante ese tiempo, mucho antes de hacerse arzobispo de San Salvador y famoso por las transmisiones radiales de sus homilías, él convenció estaciones radiales locales de que transmitieran sus Misas y sermones dominicales de modo que los católicos de zonas rurales pudieran crecer en su fe. Él sirvió como rector del seminario interdiocesano en San Salvador, secretario ejecutivo del consejo episcopal de América Central y Panamá y editor del periódico arquidiocesano, Orientación. En 1970, cuando el sacerdote tenía 52 años de edad, el papa Juan Paulo VI lo nombró obispo auxiliar de San Salvador. Cuatro años más tarde, él se convirtió en obispo de Santiago de Maria, diócesis que incluía su pueblo natal Ciudad Barrios. Las tensiones sociales y políticas de El Salvador empeoraban. Cuando cinco agricultores fueron descuartizados en junio de 1975 por miembros de la Guardia Nacional Salvadoreña, el entonces obispo Romero consoló a las familias y le escribió al gobierno una carta de protesta. “Antes que Romero cumpliera un mes como arzobispo, su profundamente admirado amigo, el jesuita Rutilio Grande, fue asesinado”, escribió Thomas Quigley, exfuncionario de la conferencia episcopal estadounidense, en el prólogo de la traducción al inglés del diario grabado del arzobispo Romero.

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The Class of 2015 ✝ CATHOLIC EDUCATION

n Thursday, May 28 and Friday, May 29, 93 seniors from St. John Paul II High School and 91 seniors from Incarnate Word Academy, respectively, completed their high school journey at the altar of Corpus Christi Cathedral. AU

L II HI G

S T. J O H

OOL ✠

✠ x

pu i, s Christ

Marivelle Acosta

Gilbert Aguirre

Bart Allen

Maria Barajas

Iliana Beltran

Donald Bourqe

Brice Bovolick

Emma Cisneros

Stephanie Broll

Thomas Burden

Michael Bustamante

Aaron Cantu

David Cardenas

Kaci Castillo

Steven Cavazos

Marissa Celis

Gabrielle Conklin

Justin Dear

Steven Delgado

Victoria Duke

Evan Elliott

Zacharias Escalante

Ian Escamill

Wesley Fletcher

Alexis Garcia

Aracely Garcia

Celina Garcia

Gabriel Garcia

Nicholas Garza

Benjamin Gomez

John Gonzalez

Jacqueline Gonzalez

Mia Gonzalez

Karissa Greses

Shelby Gutherie

Sabrina Herrero

Olivia Hinojosa

Janell Jacinto

Emil Kalbakdji

Ashlee Lamb

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Cristian Gamez

Luis Larrinaga

Tabitha Lee Sang

Jaylon Lister

Julissa Martinez

Matthew Martinez

Amaris Martinez

Joel Mata

Austin Perez

Itzak PenaHinojosa

Alexandra Perez

Andrew Lock

were class Salutatorian Katie Lynn Duncan and Valedictorian Christina Marie Matl. As part of the graduation ceremony, IWA and JPII candidates presented roses to their parents in appreciation for their support throughout their academic years.

Kaylyn Logue

Daniel Lopez

Steve Lopez, Jr.

Elizabeth Mendez

Kamren Mireles

Matthew Montez

Joseph Moore

Sergio Brittnee Perez-Collins Pineda

Sierra Ponce

Marianne Quijano

Robert Ramirez

Jailene Rayo

Michael Matthews

Victoria Lugo

Tobias Maldonado

Deborah Rodriguez

Evan Rodriguez

Ryanna Rodriguez

Cristine Rodriguez

Maranda Roland

Alyssa Ruiz

Sarah Salas

Caitlin Salinas

Melanie Sanchez

Sierra Sanchez

Rebekah Schmitz

Andrew Serna

John Solis

Oscar Soliz

Chelsea Tamez

Aaron Tello

James Thomas

Christopher Trevino

Brianna Vasquez

Maegan Villarreal

Roberto Villarreal

Alexis Williams

Marcus Williams

Congratulations JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 33

✝CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Bishop Michael Mulvey celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass for both schools. The featured speakers at the St. John Paul II commencement ceremony were class Salutatorian Nicholas Garza and Valedictorian Tabitha Lee-Sang. On the following day, at the IWA commencement ceremony featured speakers

✝ CATHOLIC EDUCATION

S I N C E

1 8 7 1

Clayton Anderson

Alfredo Arispe

Madeline Baker

Alejandro Barrera

David Berry

Daniela Carreño

William Carrillo

Daniel Cassidy

Arlene Castro

Kristen Biggins

Thomas Bostick

Madeline Brown

Ava Buchan

Analisa Cantu

Antonio Cisneros

Jared Coco

Grecia Corrada

Gasper D’Anna, Jr.

Enrique Loren De La Garza DeLeon

Alfred Dimas

Sean Dinh

Harmon Dobson

Mary Dragon

Katie Duncan

Hannah Ehrman

Ethan Elizondo

Belize Ellison

James Faught

Kimberly Fernandez

Liam Fincher

Paul Flood

John Franey

Marcos Garcia

Sarah Garza

James George

William Gilmore II

Joseph Gore

McKinna Gourley

Christopher Guerra

William Hall

John Harney

Zachary Hartman

Jazzmin Hernandez

Caitlyn Hornsby

Mary Hubert

Chance Hunsaker

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✝ CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Taylor Jones

Minseong Kim

Harrison Longwell

Margaret Martin

Lauren Martinez

Christina Matl

Moira Mary Madeleine McCandless McCullough McCutchon

Joseph McNiff

Alexa Mora

Michelle Ndwaru

Khoa Nguyen

Andrew Nicholson

George Novack

Dilan Patel

Isabella Peña

Kaleb Peña

Victoria Peña

Albert Perez

Lois Pierce

Joshua Rasmussen

Angelica Reyes

Hannah Rodriguez

Nicolas Rodriguez

Gabriella Ruiz

Pedram Salamat

Jacquelyn Salazar

Paris Shirley

Rolando Silva

Samantha Simank

Austen Soliz

Phoebe Strain

Alma Tamez

Winter Tate

Abigail Thorud

Andrea Tinning

Bianca Valderrama

Antonio Vidal, Jr.

Natasha Villagomez

Gingerine Villarreal

Lena Claire Wanzenried Weis

Angelina Wolfe

Shaela Yeager

Steven Wendel

Congratulations JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 35

✝ NATIONAL NEWS

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✝NATIONAL NEWS

Help us ‘go back home,’ displaced Iraqi sister urges U.S. Congress Carol Zimmermann Catholic News Service

peaking quietly and deliberately, Dominican Sister Diana Momeka from Iraq urged a congressional committee hearing May 13 to help the displaced Christian refugees in Iraq to “go back home.”

“We want nothing more than to go back to our lives; we want nothing more than to go home,” Sister Diana, a Dominican Sister of St. Catherine of Siena of Mosul, Iraq, told the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. During the hearing: “Ancient Communities Under Attack: ISIS’s War on Religious Minorities,” Sister Diana was one of four women who spoke of the urgent need to not only help and protect religious minorities but also to preserve and save religious sites. Recounting her own experience, Sister Diana said a bomb exploded at the sisters’ convent in Mosul in 2009. The sisters were unharmed but forced to move to Qaraqosh in Iraq’s

Nineveh Plain. Last year the Islamic State, known as ISIS, invaded that region forcing the sisters to flee once again. She said ISIS told Christians they either had to convert to Islam, pay a tribute to ISIS or leave with “nothing more than the clothes on their back.” In her case, she left only with her habit and her purse, which fortunately had her passport. Other sisters, she said, were not able to get their important papers before the forced evacuation. The Dominican sisters joined more than 120,000 people displaced and homeless in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. She told the House committee

members that this uprooting and theft of “everything that the Christians owned, displaced them body and soul, stripping away their humanity and dignity.” Reading from her prepared text, the sister told the members of Congress and those seated in the hearing room: “ISIS’ plan is to evacuate the land of Christians and wipe the earth clean of any evidence that we ever existed.” “This is cultural and human genocide,” she said, adding that the loss of the Christian community has “placed the whole region on the edge of a terrible catastrophe. Christians have for centuries been the bridge that connects Eastern and Western cultures.

“ ISIS’ plan is to evacuate the land of Christians and wipe the earth clean of any evidence that we ever existed.”

–Sister Diana Momeka

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 37

✝ NATIONAL NEWS

Sister Diana Momeka, a member of the Dominican Sisters of St. Catherine of Siena in Mosul, Iraq, testifies at a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington titled “Ancient Communities Under Attack: ISIS’s War on Religious Minorities.” Bob Roller, Catholic News Service

Destroying this bridge will leave an isolated, inculturated conflict zone emptied of cultural and religious diversity.” She said the first priority is to help Iraqi Christians return to their homes by freeing the region from ISIS control. Next, there will need to be major rebuilding effort to restore roads, water, electricity and buildings including churches and monasteries. When a member of Congress asked about other needs, Sister Diana stressed the urgency for psychological help for the religious minority refugees. “We don’t have strong programs,” she said, noting that a Yezidi woman who came to the sisters for help had been repeatedly raped by ISIS members and suffered from burns. “She can’t control herself when she tells her story,” Sister Diana said, adding that the sisters are trying to find treatment for her.

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She also told the committee that the people they work with have not lost faith through the ordeals they have experienced. “Our faith is increasing and making us stronger,” she said. “We were displaced yet the hand of God is still with us. In the midst of darkness we see God holding us,” she said, calling it a “gift of the Holy Spirit giving us strength to stay in our country and have hope that someday we will go back home.” The sister said it was difficult for her to talk about the situation of Christians in Iraq. “As a religious sister, I am not comfortable with the media and so much attention,” she said. “But I am here and I am here to ask you, to implore you for the sake of our common humanity to help us. Stand with us as we, as Christians, have stood with all the people of the world and help us.”

✝ NATIONAL NEWS

Fortnight for Freedom asks Catholics to bear witness to the truth of the Gospels

his year’s “Fortnight for Freedom: Freedom to Bear Witness” will take place in dioceses across the United States from June 21-July 4. It is a time when the Church’s liturgical calendar celebrates a series of martyrs who remained faithful in the face of persecution by political power—St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher, St. John the Baptist, Sts. Peter and Paul and the first martyrs of the Church of Rome. It concludes on Independence Day. “Keeping the spirit of the Gospel means that Catholic institutions are to bear witness in love to the full truth about the human person by providing social, charitable and educational services in a manner that fully reflects the God-given dignity of the human person,” Archbishop William E. Lori, Chairman, Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, said. The theme for this year is “The Freedom to Bear Witness,” to the truth of the Gospel. The United States Council of Catholic Bishops provides resources for the

fortnight with 14 suggested activities for a parish to mark the fortnight. These suggestions vary from parish picnics and movie nights featuring the lives of the saint commemorated, to panel discussions on religious liberty and even Eucharistic processions through the community. Bishop Michael Mulvey of the Diocese of Corpus Christi has urged pastors and administrators of the more than 100 parishes and missions in the diocese to bring the issue of religious freedom to the minds and the prayers of parishioners.

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 39

Interior view of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Pope Francis will meet with priests, religious and seminarians at the capital’s cathedral, during his one-day trip to Sarajevo on June 6. Fehim Demir, EPA, Catholic News Service

Periphery pope: Bosnia trip aims to build bridges in divided nation Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

ope Francis’ concern for those suffering on the margins and for small Catholic communities that have kept the faith alive through war or repression will take him to Bosnia-Herzegovina in early June. By making a one-day trip June 6 to Sarajevo, he said he hoped he could “be an encouragement for the Catholic faithful, give rise to the development of the good and contribute to strengthening fraternity, peace, interreligious

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dialogue and friendship.” The trip comes just a month before the 20th anniversary of the genocide in the Bosnian town of Srebrenica and six months before the 20th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords, which

ended the bloodiest conflict in Europe since World War II. More than 100,000 people died and millions more were displaced during the 1992-1995 conflict, which saw a Serb campaign of ethnic cleansing

those like us who live on the outer reaches” in a nation where peace is still fragile, and justice, especially for the Catholic minority, is a long way off.” – Cardinal Vinko Puljic of Sarajevo of Bosnian Muslims after the mostly Muslim Bosnia-Herzegovina declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1992. “Pope Francis is the pope of the poor and the forgotten, of those like us who live on the outer reaches” in a nation where peace is still fragile, and justice, especially for the Catholic minority, is a long way off, Cardinal Vinko Puljic of Sarajevo said in March. The post-war Balkan nation is now largely divided along ethnic lines. Bosniaks, or ethnic Bosnians, make up 48 percent of the country’s nearly 4 million people, while Serbs make up 37 percent and Croats 14 percent. About 40 percent of all citizens are Muslim, 31 percent Orthodox and 15 percent Catholic. Although the 1995 Dayton Peace Accords ended the fighting, the complex political structures the peace deal established—with one area administered by ethnic Serbs and another by a Muslim-Croat federation—meant the mostly Catholic Croat community became more vulnerable to discrimination, according to Bosnia’s bishops. The peace-brokered constitution “sanctioned ‘de facto’ the principle of ethnic cleansing, that is, injustice and inequality,” Cardinal Puljiksaid. The accord sought to protect the rights of the three ethnic-religious communities by granting each group autonomy, which, in practice, actually entrenches segregation.

While some cities are multiethnic, their neighborhoods are not. For example, in Mostar in the south, “there are Catholic youth who have grown up never having stepped foot” on the city’s famous 16th-century Ottoman Old Bridge “because it is in the Muslim part of town,” said Marc D’Silva, Catholic Relief Services’ Bosnia-Herzegovina country representative. Pope Francis is expected to urge the minority Catholics to “go out,” cross cultural bridges and be a force for reconciliation and cooperation, as he meets with young Catholics at a diocesan youth center. In his speech to Bosnia’s bishops in March, the pope said the Christian community is called to come out “from behind its ‘fence,’ firm in the faith, sustained by prayer and encouraged by its shepherds.” Bishops are “fathers to everyone” in a multicultural world, the pope told them, and their hearts need to be “big enough to accept each person, as Christ’s heart knows how to take in every human being with divine love.” That message will be especially fitting for this visit in June, which is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and for his meeting with priests, religious and seminarians in the capital’s Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. People of all faiths in Bosnia “are excited” the pope is coming and know

he is coming to support reconciliation, D’Silva said. While many people suffered during the war, they feel “no real bias or hatred” toward the other communities, he said. What they are lacking, he said, are constructive role models who encourage collaboration and cooperation. “People aren’t getting positive reinforcement by influential leaders” in government and mass media, who tend to try to solidify their power by sowing division or at least by “not promoting reconciliation,” he said. The pope will have an opportunity to address those concerns during a meeting with government leaders and an encounter with religious and civil leaders at a Franciscan-run student center. While the war drove many—including half of the country’s Catholics—out of Bosnia, today the lack of opportunities, a troubled economy and a sense of political inaction have triggered another exodus, especially among the young. Catholics are especially enticed to leave, D’Silva said, because nearby Croatia guarantees emigrating ethnic Croats “automatic citizenship,” which carries with it European Union citizenship, too. Many Catholics from outside Bosnia are expected to attend the pope’s Mass at Sarajevo’s Kosevo stadium. JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 41

✝ VATICAN

❝Pope Francis is the pope of the poor and the forgotten, of

✝ VATICAN

MASS: The liturgy of the Eucharist Sister Guadalupe Maria Cervantes, PCI Contributor

Sister Guadalupe Maria Cervantes, PCI is a member of the Pax Christi Institute.

s we proceed to the liturgy of the Eucharist, an overview is important. The two major parts of the Mass (Liturgy of the Word and Eucharist) form one act of worship. Our participation in the Liturgy of the Word was centered on opening ourselves fully to the Word of God proclaimed to us. Now we prepare ourselves to join our sacrifices with the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ that is offered at the Mass. At the Last Supper Christ instituted the sacrifice and paschal meal that make the sacrifice of the Cross to be continuously present in the Church, when the priest, representing Christ the Lord, carries out what the Lord did and handed over to his disciples to do in his memory. Christ took the bread and the cup and gave thanks; he broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying: “take and eat, this is my body.” Giving the cup, he said, “Take and drink, this is the cup of my blood. Do this in memory of me.”

Collection In the early Church people brought the bread and wine from their homes and presented it to the priest during the Mass. Now the bread and wine are bought, but we still have the opportunity to “give” of ourselves at Mass. One of the most concrete ways that we offer some part of ourselves in the Mass is by giving our financial contribution into the collection basket. These monetary gifts are the modern equivalent of the earlier produce gifts that both

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support the works of the Church and represent the lives of those who present them.

Procession of the gifts and hymn A hymn is sung while the altar is being prepared and the gifts are being assembled. It continues as they are brought from the congregation to the priest in a procession. The hymn brings together all of us into one and is a way of unifying the action of those who represent us with ourselves. The gifts represent us, and the people who bring them to the front emphasize the fact that “we” the congregation are asking the priest to take these gifts and to offer them to God in our name. It is important, because it sets the tone for us to understand that while the priest will say many of the prayers during this part of the Mass, he is saying them for all of us who are offering this Mass to God with him.

Blessing of the bread and wine

Once the priest has been given the bread and wine, both are taken and placed on the altar. He prepares the cup by pouring a drop of water into the wine while saying a prayer. His prayer

Hand washing

At this point the priest washes his hands and says silently, “Lord, wash away my iniquity. Cleanse me from my sins.” In Ancient times this had a practical value when the priest was involved in collection and dispensing bread, wine, candles and other gifts of the people. Today it is a symbolic but still touching gesture in which the priest reminds himself of his own sinfulness and need of healing.

Our offering The first words we hear at any given Mass during the Liturgy of the Eucharist are an invitation by the priest to join him in prayer that God may accept “our sacrifice” both for our benefit and the benefit of the entire Church.

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We respond to the invitation of the priest by asking God to accept the sacrifice that we offer at the hands of the priest. We then ask for benefits from this sacrifice that is being offered. Specifically we ask that the Lord accept the sacrifice; for the praise of God’s name; for our good; and for the good of all God’s people. What if the Mass has an intention attached to it? Most of the time Masses are said for special intentions. Does this mean that the benefit all goes to that intention? The answer is no–every Mass benefits those in attendance and the entire Church, as well as the person or group who has asked for a special remembrance at the Mass.

Prayer over the gifts The prayer over the gifts are now gathered by the priest in a prayer that takes to heart the special circumstances of the day, and he asks God again to accept the gifts that we offer him in faith through our lord Jesus Christ. Now, he invites the congregation to participate in a living, conscious and active manner in the major parts of the Eucharistic prayer that follows.

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✝ OUR FAITH

requests that we who participate in this Mass may come to share in the divinity of Christ (symbolized by the wine) who humbled himself to share in our humanity (symbolized by the drop of water). If the Son of God was capable of such profound humility, shall not we be willing to imitate his humble act?

✝ OUR FAITH

Paul’s shorter letters: First letter to Timothy, Chapter 4-6 Sister Kathleen McDonagh, IWBS Contributor

Sister Kathleen McDonagh, IWBS is a member of the order of the Incarnate Word of the Blessed Sacrament.

n Chapters 4, 5 and 6 of Paul’s First Letter to Timothy, Paul warns against living a life of false asceticism. In Chapter 4, Paul warns Timothy that “…the Spirit explicitly says that in the last times some will turn away from the faith by paying attention to deceitful spirits and demonic instructions through the hypocrisy of liars with branded consciences. They forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth (1 Tm 4:1-3).” Paul goes on to say, however, “Everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected when received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the invocation of God in prayer (1 Tm 4:4-5).” Paul then encourages Timothy to emphasize the goodness of God’s creation, and he assures him that if he does so, he will be “…a good minister of Christ Jesus (1 Tm 4:6). ” Profane and silly myths should be avoided, but devotion is valuable since “…it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future (1 Tm 4:8).” Because of Timothy’s reception of ordination to the priesthood, Paul urges him to appreciate the special spiritual gift he has received in this way. Paul then goes on to give Timothy instructions on how to behave toward various groups. Older men should not be rebuked but appealed to as fathers. Younger men should be treated as brothers; older women as mothers;

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and younger women as sisters (1 Tm 5:1-2). Widows who are alone and have set their hope on God should also be honored (1 Tm 5:3ff). Presbyters who preside well deserve “double honor” (1 Tm 5:17ff). The instructions are in line with the practices of the times and give Timothy a guide by which to operate. Paul points out the negative results of not behaving in this way. But he also goes on to exhort Timothy to seek the positive possibilities: righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience and gentleness (1 Tm 6:11). He urges Timothy to “keep the commandments without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ that the blessed and only ruler will make manifest at the proper time, the King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Tm 6:14-15). Paul concludes his letter with an instruction concerning the use of wealth. He calls for the

✝ OUR FAITH

➤ True Christians are persons who emphasize the positive. rich not to be proud of their riches and not to rely on “so uncertain a thing as wealth (1 Tm 6:17).” Some items that he lists for the rich are to do good, to be generous and to share. His epistle ends with an exhortation to Timothy to guard what has been entrusted to him. He urges Timothy to “avoid profane babbling and the absurdities of so-called knowledge.” Why? Because, he says, “By

professing it, some people have deviated from the faith (1 Tm 6:20-21).” Paul urges him to “pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience and gentleness (1 Tm 6:11).” He finishes his first letter to Timothy with the prayer, “Grace be with you all.” In the letter to Timothy, we read that, in Paul’s opinion–which is also the teaching of Jesus–the spiritual

life should be very positive. This was true in the apostolic age and continues to be true for all of us who claim to be Christians in the 21st century. True Christians are persons who emphasize the positive. We continue to be called to center our lives in Christ and to grow in our love and devotion to him. Let us make every effort to give an ongoing positive response to this call.

4 | Thu | Weekday | green | Tb 6:10-11; 7:1bcde, 9-17; 8:4-9a/Mk 12:28-34 (356)

9 | Tue | Weekday | green/white [Saint Ephrem, Deacon and Doctor of the Church] 2 Cor 1:18-22/Mt 5:13-16 (360)

5 | Fri | Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr | red | Memorial | Tb 11:5-17/Mk 12:35-37 (357)

10 | Wed | Weekday | green | 2 Cor 3:4-11/Mt 5:17-19 (361)

6 | Sat | Weekday | green/white/white [Saint Norbert, Bishop; BVM] Tb 12:1,

11 | Thu | Saint Barnabas, Apostle | red | Memorial | Acts 11:21b-26; 13:13* (580)/Mt 5:20-26 (362)

22 | Mon | Weekday | green/white/red [Saint Paulinus of Nola, Bishop; Saints John Fisher, Bishop, and Thomas More, Martyrs] Gn 12:1-9/Mt 7:1-5 (371)

13 | Sat | Weekday | green/white/ white/white [The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary; Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church; BVM] 2 Cor 5:14-21/Mt 5:33-37 (364) or, for the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart, Is 61:9-11/ Lk 2:41-51* (573)

23 | Tue | Weekday | green | Gn 13:2, 5-18/Mt 7:6, 12-14 (372)

JUNE 2015 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 45

✝ JUNE CALENDAR

St. Thomas More Annual Rummage Sale

June 6 from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parking lot at St. Thomas More Church (2045 18th Street) Corpus Christi. Furniture, appliances, baby items, bikes, clothes, shoes and more.

Feast of Corpus Christi

June 7 from 6-8 p.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church (1102 E. Kleberg) in Kingsville. Begins with Mass celebrated by Bishop Emeritus Edmond Carmody, followed by a sacred procession through the streets of Kingsville. All are welcome.

Divine Mercy Weekend Retreat

June 11-14. Begins Thursday 5 p.m. and ends Sunday 1:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). Gain a deeper understanding of the mercy of God, learn to trust in Jesus and live our lives reflecting his mercy to others. Register www.deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095, ext. 321.

June 12. Begins at 6 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church (1308 Comanche) in Corpus Christi. Those who have been married, baptized, made their first communion or confirmation or had a “quinceanera” or who went to school at Sacred Heart are welcome to attend the Mass. A reception will follow the Mass.

June 12 at 7:30 p.m. at Corpus Christi Cathedral (505 N. Broadway). Magnificent Mozart with the Cathedral Choirs and Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra and guest soloist Dee Donasco. For VIP memberships for priority reserved seating and more information call (361) 888-7444.

Men’s Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Retreat at OLCC

June 18-21. This is a weekend to go deeper in our relationship with Our Lord through the power of prayer and silence. Learn to listen to his voice in prayer by praying with scripture according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Register www.deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095, ext. 321.

St. Patrick Altar & Rosary Society’s Annual Card Party

June 18 from 1-5 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Parish Hall (3350 S. Alameda) in Corpus Christi. Please bring your own cards and/or games you wish to play. Donation is $7 per person. For information call Trudy Charleston at (361) 991-2158 or Mildred Hoffer at (361) 884-5975. All are invited to join in an afternoon of fun and games. Men are also welcome.

Celebration of the Feast Day of the Sacred Heart

(3513 Cimarron Road). Proceeds help establish scholarships for graduating seniors.

Magnificent Mozart

CDA Court #2399 Rummage Sale

June 19-20 from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. at St. Philip, the Apostle Parish Hall

Open 7 Days A Week Prizes now up to $750

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Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend

June 26-28 at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). For more information call Rolando and Nelda Garza at (361) 851-8306 or apply online at www.mecorpuschristi.org.

Fullness of Truth

June 27-28 at the American Bank Center. Adult Tickets are $45. Family and youth passes are also available. For tickets and more information call (877) 21-TRUTH or go to www.fullnessoftruth.org.

Consecration to Jesus through Mary - Day of Prayer

June 27 begins at 8:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). There will be Mass, a series of talks and time to pray with Our Lady. A light breakfast and lunch will also be provided. The day will finish by 2:30 p.m. Register at www.deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095, ext. 321.

St. Theresa Annual Chicken Friday Steak Dinner

June 28 from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. in St. Theresa Parish Hall (1302 Lantana) in Corpus Christi. Cost is $8 per plate. Dinner includes mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, bread and pudding.

St. Theresa Catholic Church