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ON THE

VOL. 49 NO. 8 Publisher Most Rev. Wm. Michael Mulvey, STL DD Editor Alfredo E. Cárdenas ACardenas@diocesecc.org

Sister Theresa Nguyen, IWBS performs a customary liturgical dance while carrying a lit candle to set on the altar. Through this Vietnamese custom, Sister Theresa said, “...we offer the story of our lives to God; we are called to share the light that we received at baptism with others.” Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

COVER

Theological Consultant Father Peter Martinez

Associate Editor Mary E. Cottingham MCottingham@diocesecc.org Web Coordinator Julissa Rokohl JHernandez@diocesecc.org

Sisters Cecilia Carrére and María Paz Viñas provided the music for the Schoenstatt Movement's centennial jubilee celebration. Alfredo E. Cardenas, South Texas Catholic

Administrative Assistant Adel Rivera ARivera@diocesecc.org Correspondents Rebecca Esparza, Luisa Scolari, Corrina Longoria

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INSIDE NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE

Summer camp uses story of Moses as vacation Bible school theme.......................6

NATIONAL NEWS Advocates urge actions to protect migrant children crossing the border...19

PARISH LIFE

VATICAN

Our Lady of the Assumption Parish has a strong commitment to faith............................10

Fall synod of bishops to review state of family ��23

CATHOLIC EDUCATION

VIEWPOINTS Too few registered voters are showing up on Election Day ��35

Diocesan office seeks to engage young adults in their faith at crucial time ��13 VIDA CATÓLICA

OUR FAITH

Muertes de migrantes deberían provocar tristeza, acción, no indiferencia...................15

Our Lady of Sorrows and the prophecy of Simeon ��41

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 3

Bust of Father Joseph Kentenich was unveiled at the Corpus Christi Schoenstatt Center on July 12. Alfredo E. Cardenas, South Texas Catholic

Schoenstatt Movement celebrates centennial jubilee By Alfredo E. Cardenas South Texas Catholic

orpus Christi has played a vital role in the Schoenstatt Movement for more than half of its existence. The Movement, founded by Father Joseph Kentenich in 1914, is observing its centennial jubilee this year, and the Corpus Christi Schoenstatt Movement Center is part of the worldwide celebration. Father Kentenich and a group of Pallotine seminarians under his charge founded the movement in Schoenstatt, Germany when they enshrined their “Covenant of Love with the Blessed Mother of God.” In 1926, Father Kentenich founded the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary. Before his imprisonment at the Dachau Concentration Camp by the Nazis, he sent sisters to South America and South Africa. After his release from Dachau, Father Kentenich made his way to South Africa and came to Corpus Christi in 1948 at the invitation of Bishop Emmanuel Ledvina. The following year, three Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary came to Corpus Christi to care for Bishop Ledvina’s home. Three other sisters came the following year to

begin teaching at parochial schools in the Diocese of Corpus Christi. Before long, a total of 26 sisters were busy working at the bishop’s house, the chancery, parishes and schools. In those early years, the sisters lived at the old bishop’s house on Antelope and Tarancahua. On Oct. 18, 1959, the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary dedicated their new home in Lamar where they also built a replica of the Shrine in Schoenstatt Germany. It was the first Shrine built in Texas; since then one has been built in San Antonio and another one will be dedicated later this year in Austin. The Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary also opened the Schoenstatt Movement Center in Corpus Christi at 4343 Gaines

4 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Street. It was at this Center where they celebrated their Centennial on July 12. The day opened with Mass at the Corpus Christi Cathedral with Schoenstatt Fathers Héctor Vega and Christian Christensen celebrating. Sisters Cecilia Carrére and María Paz Viñas provided the liturgical music. Father Vega reminded the pilgrims that Father Kentenich would tell them the work of the first 100 years is “not enough.” That time was for the development of the movement and “unifying the family.” Much work remains to be done in the next 100 years, including spreading the Schoenstatt spirituality as missionary disciples. “It is time to get to work,” Father Vega

NEWS FROM THE DIOCESE said. “We cannot rest on the laurels of people that have built the covenant of love at great sacrifice.” Before setting off on the next 100 years, pilgrims gathered at the Schoenstatt Movement Center to pay tribute to the last 100. They read a proclamation from the City of Corpus Christi recognizing the Movement’s founding and their work in Corpus Christi. They proceeded to unveil a bust of Father Kentenich. Father Vega said the bust “will always remind us of his loving care and compassion.” After the unveiling, those present enjoyed a meal at the Center. They also reenacted a “spiritual footsteps pilgrimage” inside the Center. The pilgrimage is usually the starting point of the annual 42-mile walk by Schoenstatt Youth from the center in Corpus Christi to the Shrine in Lamar, which also started on July 12. The first stop on the pilgrimage is the

former bishop’s residence where Father Kentenich met with Bishop Ledvina and served as the home for the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary. The rest of the pilgrimage included stops at the former Carmelite Convent, the Benedictine Abbey, the old Corpus Christi airport and the Cathedral—all places where Father Kentenich visited during his stay in Corpus Christi. Today, the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary are no longer in pastoral ministry in the diocese but remain at the Schoenstatt Confidentia Center in Lamar where they host the Movement’s retreats. The Lamar center, built on land sold to the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary by the Diocese of Corpus Christi, serves as headquarters for the Southern Province of the Movement, which includes Texas and Mexico. The Schoenstatt Mothers Branch donated the bust that was unveiled at the Corpus Christi Center and took

the lead in the local Jubilee celebrations. Sister Corelia, who came to the diocese in 1958, said that remaining events for the jubilee include the dedication of the Bethlehem, Cradle of Sanctity Shrine in Austin on Sept. 13; a pilgrimage to Schoenstatt, Germany and Rome on Oct. 13-26 for the jubilee celebration on Oct. 18; and the jubilee celebration for the Texas Schoenstatt family and friends at Lamar on Nov. 9.

To see more photos of this event

SouthTexasCatholic.com

www.SouthTexasCatholic.com/Walkers

Group of walkers arrive at Schoenstatt Center Lamar on July 14 after a 42-mile walk from Corpus Christi. This is the 45th year the walk has been undertaken in honor of Father Joseph Kentenich, founder of the Schoenstatt Movement. Contributed Photo

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 5

Camp participants Janie Rodriguez and Edward Sanchez made and colored baby Moses ornaments. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

Annual summer camp uses story of Moses as vacation Bible school theme By Mary Cottingham

South Texas Catholic

bout 65 campers with special needs attended the Father Walsh Annual Summer Camp on July 8-9 at Our Lady of Corpus Christi campus, culminating with the Annual Deaf Picnic on July 13 at West Guth Park. For the past eight years Catholic Charities’ Ministry and Life Enrichment for the Disabled has been incorporating a simplified version of a yearly vacation Bible school theme into their annual summer camps.

6 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

This year the vacation Bible school western theme was about the story of Moses called “SonWest Roundup: A Rip Roaring Good Time with Jesus”. The staff had to improvise some, but the lessons were

Celia Mendez, left, helps Eloisa Guerra with one of the many games offered throughout the summer camp. Guerra, who is blind and physically disabled got a high-five for throwing the shoe inside the circle of a hula hoop. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

basically the same—trust in God, he will provide. Participants were also given a condensed version of the Ten Commandments, Celia Mendez, Director of Catholic Charities’ Ministry and Life Enrichment for the Disabled, said. Each lesson consisted of crafts, games, a presentation and a snack pertaining to that lesson. Mass was held at the Perpetual Adoration Chapel. The campers put on a talent show in the evening and regaled sideliners with their dance abilities. There were just as many campers at the Annual Deaf Picnic. Father Thomas Coughlin, Dominican Missionary for the Deaf Apostolate came from San Antonio, and with Father Patrick Higgins concelebrated Mass. Deacon Michael Rowan assisted.

Rosendo Vásquez led a crew of Knights of Columbus from St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles in Calallen who barbecued brisket and served the campers, who ate, drank, played and swam during the fivehour event. Many people contributed to help make the summer event a big hit with the campers. Several volunteers came from St. John Paul II High School like students Noah Dimas and Janell Jacinto who enjoy socializing with the campers. Nurse practitioners Patrick and María Ayarzagoitia, have been available for the past seven years in case of a medical emergency. Recreational leader Alfonzo Soliz, Zumba exercise leader and storyteller Denise Underwood; and Myrna Rodriguez who stepped in at the last minute to be the camp leader, all contributed to

make the event a success. Mendez, who asked the campers if there was anything they wanted changed for next year, said they told her “they want the camp to be a week long.” “I would not be able to do this without my family. They make it possible for me to do this ministry, because for me it’s not just a job it’s a vocation,” said Mendez, who has several family members who help her every year. Mendez has two deaf brothers and one deaf sister, so she knows the needs of persons with a disability. “Nine out of 10 family members don’t sign for their deaf family member—even in my own family,” she said. “Either they don’t know how or they find it easier to talk among themselves—without meaning to. They leave the deaf person out of a lot

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 7

Campers sign responses at Mass held at the Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Our Lady of Corpus Christi. Contributed Photo

of conversations. You can’t send them to a regular parish, because there isn’t an interpreter. With this ministry we can cater to their needs. At conventions we hear about other dioceses who don’t do half of what we do here. We are truly blessed.” “As much as we want our community to be involved in their own parishes it’s not going to happen, because we are already their family,” Dora Marquez, also director of the Ministry and Life Enrichment for the Disabled. Marquez’ own daughter is mentally challenged. “Many of our members tell us that people in their parish just stare at them. It’s important that we do include them in their own parishes, but at the same time they have to feel safe,” Mendez said. Every Monday–Wednesday the ministry offers a chance to learn, socialize, exercise or make crafts. The deaf are invited to the Catholic Charities office on Mondays, the visually impaired on Tuesdays and the mentally challenged on Wednesdays. Mendez says that she is grateful to the Sultanas and Alhambras who help year-round at the monthly receptions at St. John Paul II High School after the 11 a.m. Mass and the Knights of Columbus throughout the diocese who help out with Thanksgiving and Christmas. “After the camp is over, July is our month to go to

8 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

the outskirts of the diocese,” Mendez said. We will put on a mini camp at the state school in Taft and Alice. She said that they need volunteers to do outreach to people who are on their phone list “that can’t be reached anymore for whatever reason we haven’t heard from them in a while. We need to make home visits to let them know they aren’t forgotten,” she said. “In September we are anticipating a trip to Aranzazu Camp for the disabled in Rockport. It’s been around for a while, but it was just too expensive. We got a phone call from them letting us know that we had a sponsor. We can stay for as long as we want and bring as many people as we want,” Mendez said. “They have archery, swimming, a zip line and they cook for us. They also have their own staff.” “Also next year will be the anniversary of Father David Walsh’s death on Aug. 13. We will be celebrating his memory during the month of July and August,” she said. Details are pending.

To see more photos of this event

SouthTexasCatholic.com

www.SouthTexasCatholic.com/WalshCamp

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Calendar of Events: Aug.7-10: Women’s Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Retreat Aug. 16-17: Engaged Encounter at Our Lady's House Aug. 23: Day of Prayer and Reflection from 8 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Parish (422 North Alameda Street) in Corpus Christi Aug. 28-31: Men’s Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Retreat Sept. 13: Day of Prayer and Reflection from 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. at St. James the Apostle Parish (202 E. Santiago St.) in Refugio. Sept. 18-21: Women’s Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Retreat

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For more information for the silent retreats, please visit www.deepprayer.org or “Come and See” Jesus in our beautiful Perpetual Adoration Chapel! Ongoing Events: Every Tuesday from 7-8 p.m.: Miraculous Medal Novena Holy Hour Every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m.: Church History with Deacon B. Vessa Every 1st Friday of the month at 7 p.m.: Charismatic Renewal Mass Every 1st Sunday of the month at 4 p.m.: St. Peregrine Healing Mass

www.ourladyofcc.org AND “Like” us on facebook @ “Our Lady of Corpus Christi and Cafe Veritas” AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 9

Looking like a fortress, Our Lady of the Assumption in Ingleside was built to withstand the strongest of hurricanes. Rebecca Esparza for South Texas Catholic

Built to resist hurricanes…

Our Lady of the Assumption Parish has equally strong commitment to its faith By Rebecca Esparza

Correspondent

ust three months before Hurricane Celia devastated the Coastal Bend in August 1970, Our Lady of the Assumption in Ingleside earned the designation as a full-fledged parish in the Diocese of Corpus Christi. Since 1951, the community’s faithful had been considered a mission under the guidance of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Aransas Pass. 10 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

PARISH LIFE Fierce 150-mile per hour winds from Hurricane Celia toppled the small church in Ingleside and parishioners were left to wonder what would become of their church. They did not wonder for very long. “Parishioners decided right away they would rebuild,” said Father Thomas Wellar, who celebrates 27 years as pastor at Our Lady of the Assumption this year. “They were devastated by the loss, but decided right away that the next church they built would withstand any future hurricanes to hit our area.” Not only can the new church withstand a hurricane, it is now a government approved hurricane shelter that can sustain 450-mile-per-hour winds. “The church is built of solid concrete and was constructed with 100 percent volunteer labor from within our community–from the engineers who designed it, to the workers who raised

the concrete with cranes,” Father Wellar said proudly. Father Wellar, a Pennsylvania native, first came to Corpus Christi as a Trinitarian assigned to Christ the King Church in Corpus Christi. Later, he spent a year at Holy Spirit Retreat House in Laredo and decided to become a diocesan priest, which led to his assignment at Our Lady of Assumption. “Over the last 27 years, I have watched numerous industries come and go in the Ingleside area, including the Navy,” he said. “But one thing has remained consistent; we have always been a diverse, tight-knit community and continue to be today.” Abel Gutierrez, a parishioner at Our Lady of Assumption since 1997, became more active with the church thanks to his involvement with the Knights of Columbus. He is assisting with fundraising, the food pantry and the addition of a new 24-hour Perpetual Adoration

Chapel currently under construction. “Getting more involved at church has brought me closer to my faith in many ways and has introduced me to a lot of interesting people,” he said. “I’m so thankful for the opportunity to give of my time and talent. God opened up my vision to all the needs at church I was perfect for assisting with. I would encourage others to open up their hearts in the same way.” The Knights of Columbus are currently working on the addition of a small Adoration Chapel for the continuous exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. And once again, it is very much a community effort. “An area church donated pews to us, which one of our parishioners refurbished for us. We are having the stained glass windows made locally and one of our parishioners is working on the air conditioning. But this time around, we had to use contractors in order to build

New adoration chapel is under construction at Our Lady of Assumption. Parishioners are doing most of the work. Rebecca Esparza for South Texas Catholic

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 11

Abel Gutierrez, left, a parishioner at Our Lady of Assumption and pastor Father Thomas Wellar go over work that needs to be done for the new adoration chapel. Rebecca Esparza for South Texas Catholic

the chapel according to city code,” Father Wellar said. Gutierrez said unique fundraisers–like a pie sale–have been successful thanks to the entire community, including local industries in the area. “Over 130 pies were sold and many of them to Kiewit [Offshore Services]. It was such a success, we will definitely have another pie sale for Thanksgiving,” he said. “We also have held barbecues, bingo games and other fun events.” Another unique fundraiser over the last several years has been a “Mom Prom,” a ladies night out where women wear their old prom, bridesmaid or wedding gowns. “Everything for the party is donated and we’ve raised a lot of money over the years,” said Janie Gonzalez, parishioner since 1976 and Vice-President of the Altar Society. “We have a blast at the prom. We usually donate the money to several causes within the church, like for the food pantry or to assist

12 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

cancer patients with their treatments.” Father Wellar said that he is looking forward to seeing the community continue to grow and prosper for many years to come. “We are a close-knit community who consider each other family. The people are the church. We live our lives in the community of faith.” For more information about Our Lady of the Assumption Church, including Mass times and upcoming events, visit their Web site at www. oloaingleside.org.

CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Young Catholic Professionals, from left, Michelle Unda, Megan Fogelsong, Gavin Estrada, Jonas Verdafloor and Susie Sullivan meet at Hester's for mixer and presentation. Contributed Photo

Diocesan office seeks to engage young adults in their faith at crucial time By Corinna Longoria

Correspondent

he time in a young Catholic’s life right after high school is crucial because it will shape their path for the rest of their lives, said Deacon Alfonso Ramirez, director of the Young Adult and Campus office in the Diocese of Corpus Christi. “This is a time when they are making long-term decisions about remaining active in a church or even remaining Catholic,” Deacon Ramirez said. “Most parishes have very active youth ministries, but after

high school graduation there is nowhere to turn. If we don’t fill that space then we won’t see these young adults until they get married. We want to keep them engaged and ensure they continue to grow in their

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 13

faith.” In order to meet the needs of a broad age group Deacon Ramirez said his office initiated two separate ministries, Young Catholic Professionals and Young Catholics Ablaze. Young Catholic Professionals (YCP), ages 26-39, meet the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. for adoration and reconciliation. Afterwards they have a “Dutch treat” dinner. On Aug. 12 St. John the Baptist will host the YCP and on Sept. 9 the group will meet at Our Lady of Perpetual Help. “We are rotating between parishes so that everyone realizes it is for the whole community, not just the people at a certain church,” Deacon Ramirez said. In addition to adoration, the YCP meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month at Hester’s Café. There is a mixer and food from 5:30-6 p.m. followed by a presentation. The program to be held on Aug. 26 will feature Father Peter Koziel speaking on the topic, “God in our Medical Care: A Theology of Medical Care.” The Young Catholics Ablaze (YCA) ministry is offered for those between the ages of 18-25. The name for this group

comes from a quote from St. Catherine of Sienna, “If you are what you should be, you will set the world ablaze.” It includes students at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Coastal Bend College and Del Mar College. On Aug. 14 they will have a Mass and dinner from 7-9 p.m. at the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Newman Center. The guest speaker for that event is Father Joseph Lopez, JCL vocations director for the Diocese of Corpus Christi. “A major part of what we do is to encourage vocations,” Deacon Ramirez said. “In fact we will be attending a discernment retreat in November. We are encouraging all the members of the group to attend.” Deacon Ramirez said the group at TAMUCC has more than doubled in size over the last few months and interest has been growing in the campus ministry. In fact, a second Mass has been added on Sundays at the Newman Center to accommodate more worshipers. Meanwhile, TAMUK has been blessed to have a full-time chaplain to meet the needs of their students, Deacon Ramirez said.

Young Catholics Ablaze pose with Father Peter Martinez after a talk at the Newman Center. Pictured in front row, from left, Brendon Ayers, Courtney Knaeur, Alexandra Harrel and Matthew Franke. In back row are Amanda Macias, Jasmine Rodriguez, Tony Guajardo, Paul Pesek, Father Martinez, Gus Ladwig, Melanie Aguas, Nathaniel Sosa, Candace Olivares and Evan Pirog. Contributed Photo

14 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Bishop Michael Mulvey recently named Father Peter Stanley as chaplain for the St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel and the Newman Center in Kingsville. “The people who attend both groups like having a community of their peers,” he said. “They like having the companionship of other Catholics who are facing the same life challenges. It is great to come together as believers. “There are four things that we aim to connect them to: Jesus Christ, the church, their peers and the mission of the church in the world,” Deacon Ramirez said. “This is not a singles group either. Young married couples are invited and encouraged to come also. It can be hard for people to come out of their comfort zones and try something new or even find the time to join us, but the fellowship you receive in return is definitely worth it.” Deacon Ramirez said that if any parish would like to begin a group for young adults or if they already have one and need additional assistance, they should contact his office. For more information call (361) 882-6191, ext. 627 or email Deacon Ramirez at ARamirez@diocesecc.org.

VIDA CATÓLICA

Inmigrantes se sientan en refugio en la iglesia católica Sagrada Corazón en McAllen, Texas, el 27 de junio. La iglesia tiene espacio para inmigrantes, la mayoría de ellos huyendo de la violencia de sus países centroamericanos, que se les ha ordenado comparecer en el tribunal de inmigración. Foto CNS/Reuters

Muertes de inmigrantes deberían provocar tristeza, acción, no indiferencia Catholic News Service

Las trágicas muertes de miles de hombres, mujeres y niños mientras buscan un mejor futuro deberían activar la compasión y la acción, no la indiferencia, dijo el papa Francisco. “El problema de la inmigración está empeorando y otras tragedias lamentablemente le han seguido muy de cerca de un paso implacable”, él dijo en un mensaje escrito. “Para nuestros corazones es difícil aceptar las muertes de estos hermanos y hermanas que se atreven a hacer viajes agotadores para poder

escapar tribulaciones, pobreza, guerras y conflictos que a menudo están vinculados con las normas internacionales”, el papa dijo. El papa dijo que se sentía espiritualmente presente “para llorar con todos aquellos que están heridos y para tirar flores de oraciones en sufragio de las mujeres, los hombres y los niños que son

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 15

víctimas de una tragedia que parece no tener fin”. La tragedia “exige ser confrontados no con la lógica de la indiferencia, sino con la lógica de la hospitalidad y de la comunidad con el objetivo de salvaguardar y promover la dignidad y centralidad de todo ser humano”, él dijo. Él pidió a todos los cristianos y personas de buena voluntad a continuar ayudando a los necesitados “tomándolos de la mano, sin hacer cálculos, sin temor, con ternura y comprensión”.

Cristianos sin María en sus vidas son huérfanos, dice el papa Catholic News Service

El papa Francisco dijo ante un grupo de jóvenes que están discerniendo una vocación religiosa que nunca caminen solos, sino que siempre se queden con su madre, María. "Un cristiano sin Nuestra Señora es huérfano. También un cristiano sin iglesia es huérfano. Un cristiano necesita estas dos mujeres, dos madres, dos vírgenes: la iglesia y Nuestra Señora", el papa dijo. El papa habló improvisadamente ante un grupo de jóvenes de la Diócesis de Roma durante un breve momento de oración en la gruta de Nuestra Señora de Lourdes en los Jardines Vaticanos. Él se disculpó por llegar tarde a la cita vespertina diciendo que estaba tan enfocado "en una conversación muy interesante" con alguien que perdió la noción del tiempo. "¡Perdónenme! Esto no es aceptable. La puntualidad debe ser respetada", él les dijo. El papa dijo a los jóvenes que Dios tiene en mente una vocación para todos, pero que depende a cada persona "buscarla, encontrarla y entonces seguirla, seguir adelante”. Lo mejor que se puede hacer es siempre orarle a María y mantenerla cerca cuando uno necesite tomar una decisión importante en la vida, como la selección de la vocación de uno, él dijo.

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

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Buscando Vida

La batalla que no estamos ganando Por Moisés Sandoval

Catholic News Service

Moisés Sandoval escribe para Catholic News Service

n reciente sábado por la mañana andaba caminando por las calles rezando el rosario. Me di cuenta de cuatro personas que iban caminando en la misma dirección. Por un lado dos mujeres muy bien vestidas, una ya grande, la otra joven, tocaban a cada puerta. Por el otro lado, un hombre de edad avanzada y una joven hacían lo mismo. En cada casa el residente abría la puerta y aceptaba o no el folleto que ofrecían. Al volver a la acera, le pregunté a la más joven: “¿Testigos de Jehová”? “Sí”, me contestó. Luego le pregunté si las visitas resultaban en nuevos miembros para su iglesia, y dijo que sí. Pero me dio a entender que ese no era el fruto principal, sino el conocimiento que ella estaba haciendo lo que Dios quería de ella. “El único modo que podremos salvar el mundo es poniendo a Dios en cargo de nuestra vida,” dijo. Admití que nosotros los seres humanos no hemos desempeñado buen papel en el manejo de las cosas y nos despedimos, pero no hasta que ella puso su folletito en mi mano, una invitación a una breve conferencia sobre la importancia de la muerte de Cristo. Otro sábado reciente, me encontré a un representante de una iglesia bautista. Con su hijo a su lado, también dejaba un volante en cada casa. Me urgió que estableciera una relación personal con Dios. Le aseguré que lo estaba tratando de hacer. Estamos perdiendo la

competición en las calles. No es que seamos menos agiles; es que estamos ausentes totalmente. Visitas a los hogares no es lo que hacemos bien. Sin duda, es una tarea muy difícil como sabe cualquiera quien haya tratado de vender algo de casa en casa. En la cima de su historia, durante el siglo 20, las religiosas de Victory Noll siempre hacían visitas a los hogares. La Catequista Misionera, la hoja informativa de la congregación, informaba las visitas caseras. El reportaje de un día cuenta que “nos cerraron la puerta en la cara 17 veces,” pero otras puertas se abrieron. Encontraban familias que se habían alejado de la iglesia y que querían reconciliarse. Hallaban niños que necesitaban instrucción para hacer su primera comunión. También hallaban enfermos en necesidad de atención médica o con el deseo de recibir los sacramentos. Cuando no visitaban en las aldeas o en las ciudades, iban a los campamentos de trabajadores campesinos. A veces disfrutaban de momentos graciosos. En una choza, la hermana

Agnes Rauschenbach escribió, encontraron a una niña gravemente enferma con fiebre tifoidea. Mientras que el médico quien llamaron la asistía, el sacerdote local indagaba sobre los nombres de la numerosa familia. “El nombre del primer hijo era Adán,” contó Hermana Rauschenbach. “El sacerdote en seguida preguntó, ‘¿Dónde está Eva?’ Una de las niñas respondió: ‘Yo soy Eva’. Otro niño se llamaba Caín. El sacerdote entonces preguntó: ‘¿Dónde está Abel’? Eva respondió, ‘Aquí está’. No pudo el sacerdote resistir decir: ‘Yo apuesto que Moisés está aquí también’. La hermana mayor entonces llamó a Moisés, el hermanito menor de todos’.” A propósito de todo esto, el evangelio de la mujer samaritana quien, después de su encuentro con Jesús, caminó hacia el pueblo para contarle a todos: “Vengan a conocer alguien que me contó todo los sucesos de mi vida…muchos de los samaritanos creyeron en el por la palabra de la mujer que daba testimonio” ( Jn 4:29, 39).

| SOUTH | SOUTH AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 TEXAS CATHOLIC 17 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 TEXAS CATHOLIC 17

Papa se reúne con víctimas de abuso sexual Por Carol Glatz

Catholic News Service

idiendo perdón, el papa Francisco le dijo a sobrevivientes del abuso que las “acciones despreciables” causadas por clérigos han sido ocultadas durante demasiado tiempo y habían sido “camufladas con una complicidad que no se puede explicar”. “No hay lugar en el ministerio sacrílego porque estos niños eclesiástico para los que cometen y niñas habían sido confiaestos abusos y yo me compromedos al carisma sacerdotal to a no tolerar el daño hecho a para poder ser llevados a un menor de edad por cualquier Dios. Y esas personas los persona, sea clérigo o no”, y ressacrificaron al ídolo de la ponsabilizar a todos los obispos concupiscencia”, dijo el de proteger a los jóvenes, dijo el papa. papa durante una Misa especial Él suplicó perdón “por de madrugada para seis supervilos pecados de omisión vientes de abusos por clérigos. La por parte de los líderes Misa y las reuniones privadas con eclesiásticos que no responcada individuo se llevaron a cabo dieron adecuadamente a los en la Domus Sanctae Marthae, informes de abuso”, añapensión del Vaticano donde vive diendo que la negligencia el papa y donde los supervivientes no solamente le causó a las también se alojaron. víctimas más sufrimiento, En una homilía en español sino que también “puso en pronunciada el 7 de julio, el papa peligro a otros menores de agradeció a los tres hombres y edad que estaban en riesgo. a las tres mujeres, dos cada uno El papa pidió a Dios “la de Irlanda, de gran Bretaña y gracia de llorar, la gracia de El Papa Francisco responde a preguntas de periodistas. Alemania, por venir al Vaticano que la iglesia llore y haga Paul Haring /CNS foto para reunirse con él. El Vaticano reparaciones a sus hijos e proveyó traducciones de la homihijas que han traicionado lía improvisada. su misión, que abusaron de personas inocentes” y dejaron El papa elogió la valentía de ellos al hablar sobre su abuso, cicatrices para toda la vida. diciendo que decir la verdad “fue un servicio de amor, ya que para nosotros arrojó luz sobre una terrible oscuridad en la Obispo Michael Mulvey y el personal de la vida de la iglesia”. Oficina de Protección de Niños y Jóvenes El papa dijo que el escándalo del abuso le causa “profundo se comprometen a ayudar en el proceso de dolor y sufrimiento. Tanto tiempo escondido, camuflado con curación de las víctimas y sobrevivientes de abuso. una complicidad que no puede explicarse”. Él llamó el abuso sexual “un crimen y un pecado grave”, que se hace aun peor cuando es cometido por clérigos. Si usted o alguien que usted conoce está en necesidad de estos servicios, llame a “Esto es lo que me causa aflicción y dolor por el hecho Stephanie Bonilla, Director de la Oficina de de que algunos sacerdotes y obispos, al abusar sexualmente The Office for Protección de Niños y Jóvenes, (361) 693de menores de edad” violaron la inocencia de los niños y su Child and Youth 6686 (oficina) ó (361) 658-8652 (celular) propia vocación a Dios, él dijo. para asistencia inmediata. Protection “Es algo más que acciones despreciables. Es como un culto

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NATIONAL NEWS

Migrants from Guatemala deported from the U.S. arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. A growing wave of families and unaccompanied minors fleeing Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras are streaming by the thousands into the U. S. Pakal Koban, Reuters/CNS

Advocates urge actions to protect migrant children crossing the border By Patricia Zapor Catholic News Service

Petitions and letters to members of Congress and the Obama administration are among the measures being pursued by advocates urging humane treatment of the Central American children who are trying to migrate to the United States. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 19

A petition delivered to members of Congress, President Barack Obama and Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson called for a humanitarian approach to the surge of migrants from El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala that has overwhelmed the government’s capacity to handle them. “We must not lose sight of the fact that these are young, scared and desperate mothers and children. They need and deserve our protection and support. Now is not the moment for inflammatory political rhetoric, but of compassionate and orderly resolution to the conditions of these women and children who are already in a difficult humanitarian situation,” said a statement of the Texas Catholic Conference, the public policy voice of the bishops of Texas. Catholic Charities agencies across Texas have expanded their commitments with the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency—who has been tasked with leading the federal effort—and the Federal Office of Refugee and Resettlement (ORR) to provide for the basic needs of these mothers and children while their cases are being resolved or they are reunified with their families. This includes opening new temporary shelters, and providing social workers, immigration lawyers and medical personnel to meet immediate needs. Elsewhere, the California Catholic Conference and the U.S. Jesuit Conference and Jesuit Refugee Service weighed in on the topic. Since the fiscal year started Oct. 1, more than 57,000 minors traveling on their own have been apprehended at the U.S. border, swamping a system designed to handle 6,000-7,000 such people a year. Under a federal law intended to thwart human trafficking, minors from Central America are required to be in the custody of Border Patrol no more than 72 hours before they are handed over to the ORR.

The agency is supposed to try to place such minors with relatives in the United States while the government pursues deportation or the individuals seek asylum allowing them to stay permanently. In a related situation, more than 39,000 families—typically mothers with children—also have been apprehended. Those families usually are processed, given orders to appear for deportation proceedings and taken to a bus station. Those drop-offs by the Border Patrol have been happening

➤ Since the fiscal year started Oct. 1, more than 57,000 minors traveling on their own have been apprehended at the U.S. border, swamping a system designed to handle 6,000-7,000 such people a year. across the country. Signed by nearly 4,000 people of faith, a petition backed Obama’s request for $1.9 billion in supplemental funding for the crisis, and $200 million to avoid funds having to be transferred from current refugee programs under ORR. The petition–signed by dozens of priests and religious brothers and more than 200 women religious–also urged Congress

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not to approve Obama’s request to deport the minors more quickly. Instead, it said, they should be provided with screening and other services that would be required under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act. It also called for “safe and humane living conditions, medical care and mental health support,” access to pastoral visits, play and activities appropriate for children; and legal assistance and legal representation. The petition said children should be released as quickly as possible to U.S.-based family members or housing situations other than the large institutional settings that are currently being employed. During a July 10 teleconference hosted by the petition’s sponsor, Church World Service, Mercy Sister Kathleen Erickson said she had recently returned from a sixweek visit to San Pedro Sula, Honduras. She said three times while she was there, the nuns with whom she was living told of seeing dead bodies being hauled out of drainage ditches when they were outside the heavily protected compound where they live. Sister Kathleen said among the residents of the convent is the 14-year-old niece of one of the nuns, whose mother was taken away by armed men as she fed her infant. The woman was never seen again, there was no investigation and no arrest, she said. “Do politicians in the United States honestly believe that it would be safe to return these kids home? These children are not a threat to us, but I believe we are deporting them back to serious threats. I think to certain death,” she said. Jesuit Father Sean Carroll, who runs the Kino Border Initiative on the Arizona-Mexico border, said it has been challenging to try to collaborate with the local federal authorities to provide pastoral and social services assistance to the children who are being held in a Border Patrol warehouse in Nogales, Arizona.

“Many children are victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse and robberies— not only in their countries of origin, but also along the way as they travel through Mexico to the northern border,” he said. Offers to provide pastoral visits and other support have been rebuffed. “Based on our experience, there is a critical need” for physical, spiritual, emotional support as well as legal representation, Father Carroll said. The California Catholic Conference, which represents the bishops of the state in public policy matters, expressed solidarity with the hundreds of displaced people who have been moved to California as federal agencies seek to manage their processing. “These children and families have journeyed to our country, fleeing violence and destitution in Central America,” the California bishops said. “Sadly, their experience in California has thus far been marked by hostility and near chaos. They are exhausted, afraid and clinging to hope.” The bishops said Catholic Charities agencies and other community groups are collaborating to provide hospitality and other assistance. They urged Congress to respond with the necessary resources to care for the unaccompanied children, said they oppose fast-tracking of deportation proceedings and encouraged people to support the social service agencies in their efforts. “The gravity of this situation transcends politics; it is truly a humanitarian crisis that calls all of us, Catholics and others of good will, to respond with compassion and with urgent action,” the statement said. The Texas bishops called “our fellow Texans to pray for the safety and well being of these young refugees and for the continued efforts of both public and private aid officials in resolving this potential humanitarian crisis along the border.” (Alfredo E. Cardenas, South Texas Catholic, contributed to this article.)

Full effects of Hobby Lobby ruling will evolve over time By Patricia Zapor Catholic News Service

The Supreme Court’s ruling in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby was barely out of the clerk’s box June 30 before pundits, partisans and parties to related lawsuits were staking out claims about what the decision means. About 50 cases already before various federal courts hinge on how the ruling is applied. Another 50 or so cases raise related questions about whether nonprofit organizations must comply with the provision of the Affordable Care Act challenged in the Hobby Lobby case, or with procedures established for religious groups to opt out of it. The 5-4 ruling said, Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood Specialties– the two companies that sued–did not need to comply with a federal mandate to include a full range of contraceptives in employee health insurance. Both companies’ owners are Christians whose family members run the businesses and who follow faith-influenced practices such as closing on Sundays. They had objected to having to cover all the forms of contraception in the government’s requirement, because some act as abortifacients. The court said the federal government could have chosen ways to

provide uniform access to contraceptives that were less of an infringement on religious rights. It said under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, known as RFRA, such “closely held” companies can assert religious views that protect them from the mandate. There were some near-immediate effects on pending cases. The Eternal Word Television Network, Mother Angelica’s operation, was granted an injunction allowing it to opt out of providing contraceptive coverage without being fined while its legal challenge proceeds. Half a dozen cases up for review by the Supreme Court were kicked back to lower courts to consider in light of the Hobby Lobby ruling. And a Christian college was granted an injunction while it challenges a requirement to submit paperwork for an accommodation allowing it to opt out of the mandate. The ruling clearly changed the legal environment for faith-based objections by some for-profit employers to

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 21

the contraceptive mandate. But realistically, what else it means will take years to shake out. The 49-page majority opinion by Justice Samuel Alito, and a 35-page dissent by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, set the stage for an immediate outpouring of analysis that covered a range of views. “Stunningly bad for women’s health and starkly dismissive of women’s own religious beliefs,” wrote Marcia D. Greenberger, co-president of the National Women’s Law Center, in a piece posted on SCOTUSblog, an online forum about the Supreme Court. “Justice has prevailed,’“ said a statement from Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. “Now is the time to redouble our efforts to build a culture that fully respects religious freedom.” The archbishop’s statement noted that the court clearly did not decide whether Catholic charities, hospitals and schools would have to comply with a paperwork-filing provision in the government’s accommodation for such groups, to which some entities, such as the Little Sisters of the Poor, have also objected to on religious grounds. “Contrary to the doom and gloom about all manner of religious objections to come, the court recognized that RFRA claims would continue to be assessed on a case-by-case basis as they arise,” wrote Travis Weber, an attorney who is director of the Center for Religious Liberty at the Family Research Council, on a SCOTUSblog post. “The ‘sky is falling’ response is not credible in light of the court’s opinion.” The sky may or may not be falling, but the ruling left plenty of issues up in the air.

For instance, what will constitute a “closely held” corporation? About 50 for-profit companies have pending lawsuits challenging provisions of the Affordable Care Act. The Becket Fund, a religious liberty law firm that represents Hobby Lobby and many other plaintiffs against the government, said in its online status report that 49 forprofit company cases will now return to lower courts for consideration in light of the Supreme Court ruling. Among the considerations in lower courts will be whether those companies fit Alito’s construct of “closely held.” In her dissent, Ginsburg said the family-owned Mars candy company, with 72,000 employees, would qualify, though it has not challenged the mandate. Newsweek reported that according to a Copenhagen Business School survey, about 90 percent of U.S. companies might qualify. On the other hand, Newsweek pointed out, the Internal Revenue Service has its own definition of “closely held” which calls for at least 50 percent ownership by five or fewer individuals. As Archbishop Kurtz noted, Alito said the federal government already has a system—the accommodation—under which nonprofit religious organizations can self-certify that providing insurance coverage for contraceptives violates their religious beliefs. But Alito said the opinion should not be understood to mean any religion-based objection to requirements of the Affordable Care Act would withstand court scrutiny. Alito specifically mentioned objections to vaccinations to protect public health as raising different legal issues. Meanwhile, another 51 cases involving nonprofits are lining up for consideration by the Supreme Court.

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Those include EWTN, the Little Sisters of the Poor, other religious orders, religious publishing companies, numerous Catholic dioceses and Catholic and other church-run colleges. Among them is Wheaton College v. Burwell, in which a temporary injunction was issued July 3, shielding the Illinois Christian school from complying with the requirements. Like the Little Sisters, the college objects to having to fill out the self-certification form directing a third party to provide the contested coverage so the institution does not have to do so. The college argues that the act of filling out such a form makes the institution complicit in providing contraceptives to which it objects on religious grounds. The Supreme Court’s order in the case said the college could sent a letter informing the HHS secretary “that it is a nonprofit organization that holds itself out as religious and has religious objections to providing coverage for contraceptive services, the respondents are enjoined from enforcement against the applicant the challenged provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and related regulations pending final disposition of appellate review.” The court has not yet decided whether to hear the case itself. And while those cases filter through lower federal courts to eventual review by the Supreme Court, congressional Democrats are trying a legislative approach to undoing the Hobby Lobby ruling. Twin bills introduced in the House and Senate would ban employers from refusing to include any health coverage that is guaranteed to their employees under federal law. The bills are unlikely to pass in the deeply divided Congress.

VATICAN

Fall synod of bishops to review state of family By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

Representatives of the world’s Catholic bishops, meeting together in a synod, are not expected to make any formal proposals about the church’s pastoral care of families until after a second, larger gathering in 2015. The extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family will meet at the Vatican Oct. 5-19, bringing together the presidents of national bishops’ conferences, the heads of Eastern Catholic churches and Vatican officials. The world Synod of Bishops, which will include more bishops—many elected by their peers—will meet at the Vatican Oct. 4-25, 2015. “The upcoming extraordinary Synod to be held this October will be a great blessing for the church. Marriage and the family are the very foundation of society and the church as well,” Corpus Christi Bishop Michael Mulvey said. Introducing the working document for the first synod assembly—formally an “extraordinary ” synod—Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, general secretary of the Synod of Bishops, said participants “will thoroughly examine and analyze the information, testimonies and recommendations received” from around the world in response to a questionnaire sent out in November 2013.

The responses to the questionnaire, submitted by about 90 percent of the world’s bishops conferences and about 800 Catholic organizations or individ-

married. Many ills and false ideas surrounding the notion of family life and marriage need to be clarified,” Bishop Mulvey said. The general assembly in 2015, “representing a great part of the episcopate and continuing the work of the previous synod, will reflect further on the points discussed so as to formulate appropriate pastoral guidelines,” the cardinal said. Only the suggestions of the 2015 synod will be forwarded to the pope as formal proposals for church action, he said. The theme of the extraordinary synod is: “The pastoral challenges of the family in the context of evangelization.” Cardinal Baldisseri said there would be about 190 voting members, plus “fraternal delegates” from other Christian churches as well as observers and experts appointed by Pope Francis. Cardinal Baldisseri announced that the theme of the 2015 synod would be: “Jesus Christ reveals the mystery and vocation of the family.” That gathering,

❝ the doctrine of the church is not up for discussion,” but the synod members will be called upon to find ways to improve the “pastoral application” of church teachings, ways to explain it and to help Catholics live it.

uals, formed the basis for the working document for the extraordinary assembly. The results of the extraordinary assembly will form the basis for the working document for the 2015 meeting, he said. “At the present time many misguided ideas about marriage and the family circulate in our society, which weigh heavy on those who face the prospect of marriage and those who are already

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he said, was expected to include about 250 voting members. In a letter to families in February, Pope Francis explained that the “extraordinary synodal assembly will be followed a year later by the ordinary assembly, which will also have the family as its theme.” The pope also noted that the World Meeting of Families would take place in Philadelphia in September 2015. “May we all, then, pray together so that through these events the church will undertake a true journey of discernment and adopt the necessary pastoral means to help families face their present challenges with the light and strength that comes from the Gospel,” the pope said. Cardinal Baldisseri announced that Catholics around the world would be asked to observe a day of prayer on Sept. 28 for the synod and its deliberations. Italian Archbishop Bruno Forte of Chieti-Vasto, chosen by Pope Francis to be the special secretary of the extraordinary synod, told reporters, “the doctrine of the church is not up for discussion,” but the synod members will be called upon to find ways to improve the “pastoral application” of church teachings, ways to explain it and to help Catholics live it. “We all are aware of the many difficult circumstances under which the family lives today,” Bishop Mulvey said. “Many of these situations and circumstances alienate many good Catholic people from the practice of their faith. Although I do not think we should have any exaggerated expectations due to our tradition and theology, a pastoral look at many of the circumstances and situations will be very welcomed by many in the church today.” (Alfredo Cardenas with the South Texas Catholic contributed to this article.)

Synod document cites cultural an By Francis X. Rocca Catholic News Service

The working document for the October 2014 extraordinary Synod of Bishops offers a picture of the Catholic Church today struggling to preach the Gospel and transmit moral teachings amid a “widespread cultural, social and spiritual crisis” of the family.

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Cardinal Peter Erdo of EsztergomBudapest, Hungary, relator for the October extraordinary Synod of Bishops on the family, speaks with Italian Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, synod general secretary, at the conclusion of a press conference at the Vatican. The working document for the synod scheduled to start in October was released during the press conference. Massimiliano Migliorato, Catholic Press Photo

nd economic threats to family The 75-page “instrumentum laboris,” published by the Vatican June 26, is intended to “provide an initial reference point” for discussion at the synod, whose theme will be the “pastoral challenges of the family in the context of evangelization.” The document is based principally on comments solicited in a questionnaire last November from national bishops’ conferences around the world. But it

also reflects comments sent directly to the Vatican by individuals and groups responding to the questionnaire, which was widely published on the Internet. Topics in the working document include some of the most contested and controversial areas of Catholic moral teaching on the family, including contraception, divorce and remarriage, same-sex marriage, premarital sex and in vitro fertilization.

Bishops conferences responding to the questionnaire attributed an increasing disregard of such teachings to a variety influences, including “hedonistic culture; relativism; materialism; individualism; (and) the growing secularism.” Recognizing that most Catholic couples do not follow the church’s teaching against the use of artificial birth control, the document says, “for many Catholics the concept of ‘responsible parenthood’ encompasses the shared responsibility in conscience to choose the most appropriate method of birth control.” The document says the use of natural family planning, condoned by the church, encourages responsible decisions about family size while respecting human fertility and “the dignity of the sexual relationship between husband and wife.” Bishops expressed particular concern with the “ideology called gender theory, according to which the gender of each individual turns out to be simply the product of social conditioning and needs” without “any correspondence to a person’s biological sexuality.” The bishops see a need for better teaching of “Christian anthropology,” the document states. Noting that contemporary culture dismisses or misunderstands theories of “natural law,” which seek to “found human rights on reason,” bishops

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increasingly prefer to invoke Scripture in support of Catholic moral teaching. The document also points to economic factors behind Catholics’ disregard of that teaching: Cohabitation without marriage can be driven by financial need; youth unemployment; and a lack of housing.” A widespread “contraceptive mentality” reflects, in part, a shortage of “child care, flexible working hours (and) parental leave.” Long working hours and commuting times “take a toll on family relationships.” “The church is called to offer real support for decent jobs, just wages and a fiscal policy favoring the family as well as programs of assistance to families and children,” the document states. The document refers briefly to scandals over the sexual abuse of children by priests, which it says “significantly weaken the church’s moral credibility,” as do other forms of “counter-witness in the church,” including the lavish lifestyles of some clergy and unwelcoming attitudes in some parishes toward separated, divorced or single parents. The bishops recognize the challenges of ministering to growing numbers of people in such “irregular” situations, including divorced Catholics who have remarried civilly without obtaining an annulment of their first marriage, leaving them ineligible to receive Communion. Their predicament, which Pope Francis has said exemplifies a special need for mercy in the church today, has been a topic of unusually open debate at the highest levels of the church over the last year. Many in such situations feel “frustrated and marginalized,” the document states, noting proposals for rendering the annulment process simpler and quicker—and warnings that such streamlining might obscure church doctrine on the indissolubility of marriage. The document also notes proposals that the Catholic Church consider adopting Orthodox practice, which allows for second and even third marriages under certain circumstances. On the other hand, some bishops and others “want to see more attention given to separated and divorced persons who have not remarried but have remained faithful to their nuptial vows,” and who often “have the added suffering of not being given proper care by the church and thus overlooked.” The document draws a connection between family breakdown and a “crisis of faith,” noting that, with the increase in single-parent households, many children now miss experiencing the “love of a father, thereby making it particularly difficult to experience God’s love and him as Father.” Regarding unions between partners of the same sex, bishops around the world “are trying to find a balance between the church’s teaching on the family and a respectful,

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non-judgmental attitude toward people living in such unions.” “A distinction must be made between those who have made a personal, and often painful, choice and live that choice discreetly so as not to give scandal to others, and those whose behavior promotes and actively—often aggressively—calls attention to it,” the document states. While opposing adoption of children by same-sex couples, almost all bishops said they would greet requests to baptize children living with such couples “with the same care, tenderness and concern which is given to other children.” The document states that children of parents in “irregular” situations should also feel welcome in Catholic schools, where “words and expressions need to be used which create a sense of belonging and not exclusion...fully aware that ‘irregular’ is a word applied to situations, not persons.” “Children or young people are not to blame for the choices and living situations of their parents,” the document states. It adds that excessive rigidity in such matters runs the risk of “making an unjust distinction between different morally unacceptable situations,” for instance, by punishing children of an invalid marriage but not those whose parents “live a life of crime and exploitation.”

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An evening of inspiration and hope

A recovering drug addict rakes dirt around a new chapel being completed at the Fazenda da Esperanca (Farm of Hope) drug rehabilitation center in Guaratinguetá, Brazil. Rickey Rogers, Reuters/Catholic News Service

28 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi will host the 2014 Dinner and Dialogue with Bishop Michael Mulvey on Thursday, Sept. 25, at the Congressman Solomon P. Ortiz International Center. The bi-annual fundraiser helps support the programs and services of Catholic Charities and the Mother Teresa Shelter. Special guests from Brazil will share information about their unique drug and alcohol rehabilitation program called Fazenda da Esperanca (Farm of Hope). The Fazenda da Esperanca is a Catholic community that takes care of young drug and alcohol addicts, showing them a new way of life by living each day according to the Gospel through community life, spirituality and work. The story of Fazenda da Esperanca began in 1983 when a German Franciscan parish priest, Father Hans Staple, called a group of young men and women in his parish in Guaratinguetá, Sao Paulo, Brazil, to meet every morning after the Mass and meditate on the message of the Gospel of the day. In 1998, the first Fazenda outside Brazil was inaugurated in Germany, near Berlin. Today there are six Fazendas in Germany. Others followed in Russia, Philippines, Paraguay, Argentina, Columbia, Guatemala, Uruguay, Mexico and Mozambique. At present, there are more than 70 Fazenda centers in Brazil and 10 other countries, with more than 2,000 boys and girls undergoing rehabilitation, with some 20,000 graduates worldwide. The dinner with Bishop Mulvey will begin at 7 p.m. For more information, to purchase tickets or for sponsorship and underwriting opportunities, contact Shannette Hoelscher at (361) 442-2224, ext. 24 or shoelscher@diocesecc.org.

NEWS BRIEFS

Workshops for faith educators planned for September The Office of Religious Education of the Diocese of Corpus Christi will present three workshops in September on “Teaching about God’s Gift of Forgiveness.” Robert McCarty, doctor of ministry and executive director of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, will be the keynote speaker. These rite of blessing and faith educators workshops are intended for directors of religious education, catechists, Catholic school staff, parish staff, religious, deacons, pastors, youth ministers and all who work in faith formation. The first workshop will be held in Corpus Christi on Sept. 13 from 8 a.m.-noon at the Corpus Christi Cathedral’s St. Joseph’s Hall located at 505 North Upper Broadway. A second session will be held in Kingsville on Sept. 27, from 8 a.m.-noon at St. Joseph Church, located at 1400 Brookshire. The third workshop is scheduled for Beeville later that day, from 2-6 p.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, located at 707 N. Avenue E. For more information or to register call (361) 882-6191.

Movie night at Our Lady of the Rosary

Our Lady of the Rosary is having “Movie Nights” once a month in which they will feature faith-based entertainment, education and fellowship for families, Father Gabriel Coelho said. The movie night was inaugurated in June and will continue once a month at the Parish Hall located at 1123 Main Drive in Corpus Christi. There is a snack bar with variety of foods. Families from neighboring parishes are welcome. For show times call the parish office at (361) 241-2004. Regina Lewis, Our Lady of the Rosary

K.J.Z.T. director presents check for seminarians Sofie Perkins, director of the Catholic Family Fraternal of Texas (K.J.Z.T.) presents a check from the Clerical Endowment Fund to Bishop Michael Mulvey for the education of young men entering the priesthood in the Corpus Christi Diocese. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 29

Journey of faith and of service led By Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic and Julian Kuntscher, IWBS, Contributor

ietnamese liturgical song and offertory dance were interspersed with the Liturgy of Religious Profession on June 28 at the Incarnate Word Chapel as Sister Theresa Nguyen, IWBS made her final profession of vows. Bishop Michael Mulvey celebrated Mass and Superior General Michelle Marie Kuntscher, IWBS, received Sister Theresa's perpetual commitment. Anna Lieu Tran and Maria Hai Nguyen, Sister Nguyen’s mother and sister, respectively, traveled from Vietnam to witness her profession of vows. Other special guests included her nephew Anthony Tien Tran who traveled to the ceremony from Canada, many friends and choir members from Corpus Christi and Rockport and sisters from the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament. While discerning with the sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, Sister Theresa has participated in liturgical worship with the Vietnamese communities in local parishes. “We continue to enrich one another

through our Vietnamese community as well as share our faith and culture with others on special occasions,” she said. And this was such an occasion. “Liturgical dancing at the offertory is part of the Vietnamese culture, Sister Theresa said. “The lighted candle [lantern]

Sister Theresa's sister and mother from Vietnam at left, Maria Hai Nguyen and Anna Lieu Tran, respectively, along with Chien Nguyen, a friend, from St. Peter in Rockport witness Sister Theresa's final profession of vows. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

30 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

explains that we offer the story of our lives to God; we are called to share the light that we received at baptism with others.” Sister Theresa was born in Đăk Mil, Vietnam in 1975 and raised in a traditional Vietnamese household with one brother, six sisters and parents

VOCATIONS

Sister Theresa into religious life

Sister Theresa makes her final profession of vows. Bishop Mulvey gave witness and celebrated the Liturgy of Religious Profession. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

who instilled strong Catholic values. Every day her family prayed and sang together for evening prayer. They lived close to the church, making it easy to attend morning Mass. Sister Theresa has been singing all her life. At the ages of 11-17 Sister Theresa was a member of junior choir and joined the junior Legionaries of Mary, when she began helping others. She visited the sick, prayed with them and helped feed the poor. When she was 18 she met Blessed Teresa of Calcutta and was inspired by her spirit and action for the poor. “I was too young to understand the meaning of poor. I thought food and clothes were things the poor needed,” she said. It was through a community called Missionaries of Christ’s Charity that she was sent to Corpus Christi in 2004 to minister to the spiritual needs of the Vietnamese community and work at the Mother Teresa Day Shelter for the Homeless. “Usually people think of a missionary as a person who goes to a third world country, not one who comes from a poor nation. However, at home we knew there were many Vietnamese who had settled in the United States, and they needed our help. There were many who had fallen on hard times or who had lost their way in the transition to their new life,” she said. When she saw the name of the city she thought, “here is a good place to land my feet.” While residing at the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament Convent,

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 31

she learned English and took courses at Del Mar College. She was attracted to the sisters’ charism and community life at the convent. Known for their hospitality, she began to feel that she belonged to the community. “I felt welcomed, supported, loved and free to be myself,” she said. “The sisters [at Incarnate Word] live who they are. It taught me to live like that also—it’s the best way to be joyful and show loving kindness to others.” During that period of time, and after much prayer, discernment and guidance, she realized that God was calling her to serve as a sister of the Incarnate Word. She was accepted into the congregation as a candidate on Nov. 11, 2005, entered the novitiate phase on Aug. 15, 2007 and professed first vows Aug. 1, 2009. In 2012 she became a United States citizen. Sister Theresa has pursued advanced studies on Computer Information Systems at Texas A&M University in Kingsville and will be attending the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio. She will also serve at Incarnate Word Academy in Brownsville, where she will be their technology assistant for elementary level classes. Referring to her religious journey in the IWBS Formation Program, Sister Theresa summarizes it in a single word–gratitude. She is grateful for the Incarnate Word charism, the prayer life and the

experience of community. She appreciates the love and support of each sister in the community. She found that increased self-knowledge helps her to live more freely and confidently. “On-going formation provides many opportunities for my life to be transformed in Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word,” she said. Sister Theresa believes that this transformation is one of the beautiful aspects of consecrated life. Of her shared journey with the Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, she said, “We come from different backgrounds and cultures, and we share our many gifts and talents with the church and the people of God.” On vocations she said, “I extend an invitation to you, young women and men, to be open to God’s whisperings in your hearts. Is God calling you to the priesthood or consecrated life? Come and see and you will truly be surprised at what God has in store for you. With God, all things are possible.”

32 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

To see more photos of this event

SouthTexasCatholic.com

www.SouthTexasCatholic.com/NguyenVows

Superior General Michelle Marie Kuntscher, IWBS places a ring on Sister Theresa's finger. The ring signifies a lifelong comittment of marriage with Jesus Christ. Mary Cottingham, South Texas Catholic

Discernment spirituality By Father Joseph Lopez, JCL

Contributor

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

pirituality is the individual approach to one’s relationship with God. It involves making use of the tools of prayer and devotion, which help us live as Christians the best way possible. Spirituality is, therefore, personal and many details of our spirituality will be largely dependent on our preferences. Even so, there are some standard points that come in handy, especially if we are discerning whether one may be called to live out one’s life of holiness as a priest or sister.

Frequency and length of prayer This depends on your circumstances, but a good guideline is to spend about an hour a day in prayer. This is best spent in the presence of God in the Blessed Sacrament, if possible. This time can include a spiritual reading, which helps to focus our heart and mind on God; a meditative rosary; praying the liturgy of the hours; or even just sitting in the presence of our Lord. We have to be careful not to short shift our prayer time, but also do not spend “too much” time. Time at prayer does not equal holiness, especially when we have got other concerns to attend to.

Devotion to the Blessed Mother and the other saints

Mass attendance One cannot seriously consider his or her vocation without frequent reception of Our Lord in Holy Communion. The Eucharist is the “source and summit of the Christian life,” and it is especially important that a man discerning a possible vocation to the priesthood or a woman discerning the consecrated life participate in the Eucharist frequently. While he or she should certainly never miss a Sunday Mass, daily Mass whenever possible is recommended.

Confession

If a priest acts in persona Christi, then it makes sense that every priest–or man discerning the priesthood–should have a special relationship to the mother of Christ, who is also the Mother of the Church. The saints are models of the Christian life. The more we study and imitate their virtue, the closer our relationship with Our Lord will become. In addition, their lives are thoroughly inspiring. For inspiration in discerning a priestly vocation, consider reading about and praying with the following: St. John Vianney, patron saint of priests; St. John de Brebeuf and St. Isaac Jogues, martyrs

of North America; St. John Eudes, devoted to the Eucharist and the Sacred Heart; St. John of the Cross, mystic; St. Francis Xavier, missionary to the Orient; St. Maximilian Kolbe, devoted to Our Lady; and St. Josemaría Escrivá, champion of the cause of virtue and holiness in daily life.

Looking at the lives of the saints reveals that they frequent the confessional as a necessary part of their formation in holiness. One cannot be aligned to the will of God unless he is continually refining his or her motives and hearts to listen more clearly. There are a lot of moral dangers to contend with, after all. We need the grace offered by this sacrament to overcome these obstacles. The sacrament of penance should be used monthly, at least. Every week or every other week is likely to be more helpful. But we should be careful not to be scrupulous. It is important that one forgives himself–and forgets. Worrying over sins, which one has confessed, can

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 33

be a way for the devil to cause distraction or even despair.

Devotion to the Sacred Heart The Sacred Heart of Jesus is the symbol of the union of God and Man–the whole reason for Jesus’ mission, his sacrifice on the cross and our participation in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Devotion to the Sacred Heart is simply love for God who became man to save all of us. Within the Sacred Heart lies the complete mystery of salvation, which is the whole reason a man becomes a priest and woman becomes a sister. Love of the Sacred Heart is an ideal devotion for a person discerning a religious vocation. While this list is not exhaustive, it may be helpful to consider (or re-consider) some of these points in our own spiritual life. Whatever we do with our spiritual lives we always should be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who alone can lead us to the truth of the vocation God has prepared for us.

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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Too few registered voters are showing up on Election Day

VIEWPOINTS

By Father William J. Byron, SJ

Catholic News Service

Jesuit Father William J. Byron is university professor of business and society at St. Joseph’s University, Philadelphia.

n America, we all too often tend to substitute blame for analysis. Since Republican Eric Cantor’s recent stunning defeat in his primary election bid to hold his U.S. House of Representatives seat in Virginia’s 7th Congressional District, the blame has been spread around in all directions. Analysis, however, has been somewhat thin and often contradictory. He was the second-most powerful member of the House and widely expected to succeed John Boehner as speaker of the House. Voter turnout was too low, some say; others argue that if the turnout of registered voters had been higher, Cantor would still have lost. Had the turnout been higher, I suspect Cantor would have won. Incumbents usually do. In Virginia, a registered voter of one party can vote in another party’s primary. Some say Democrats voted for Cantor’s not-well-known and underfunded opponent—a tea party Republican—in order to topple the majority leader (not

knowing, of course, who will succeed Cantor in that leadership position). Cantor’s defeat was a political earthquake. The aftershocks have yet to be felt. In the primary that took Cantor down, 65,022 people voted. Cantor got only 28,898 of those votes. Many more, 474,714, according to The Washington Post, were registered to vote but simply chose not to vote. Regardless of your party affiliation or, in this case, your preference for a given candidate—David Brat, the economics professor who won, or the seasoned incumbent who lost—the fact that only about 14 percent of those who could have voted actually did so has to give you pause. Democracy depends on participation. If voters do not vote, democracy will not work. Those who want to do something to preserve democracy can make an enormous contribution by simply voting and then helping to get out the vote by encouraging others to vote. A well-organized minority can win elections by getting out the vote. And that minority may or may not have the best interest of all in mind. The principle of participation is an underappreciated principle of Catholic social teaching. It is often thought of in terms of

the right to join trade unions. It respects another’s right not to be ignored on the job or shut out from decision making within the organization, particularly from decisions that affect wages and working conditions and career advancement. But the principle of participation also relates to a citizen’s duty to take part in the political process by voting, not necessarily by running for office, but simply voting others in or out of office in a representative government. We call that form of government a democracy, and it simply will not work if citizens do not participate. Hence the concern all of us should have with lowvoter turnout. I think we are nearing a crisis point in America in our refusal to participate by voting in local, state and national elections. At all three levels, our participation rates are alarmingly low. We are paying for it in the poor quality of candidates running for office, in political gridlock, particularly in Washington, and in ineffective governance at all levels. This need not be the case. It could change for the better if more of us simply decided to vote. ( Jesuit Father William J. Byron Email: wbyron@sju.edu.)

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 35

Annulment without witnesses, price for a funeral By Father Kenneth Doyle Catholic News Services

Father Ken Doyle is the Chancellor for Public Information at Diocese of Albany, New York.

I am grateful for your informative comments in a previous column regarding annulments. But they have generated an additional question for which I seem to be getting different answers. If one of the spouses alone, without any additional witnesses, attests that he or she was not committed to the marriage but went through with it anyway, is that by itself enough to obtain an annulment? (New Berlin, Wisconsin)

Generally speaking, no. Such an unsupported statement by one of the spouses would normally not be sufficient ground for granting an annulment. As you can imagine, this would make the process all too easy and render any serious evaluation of the marriage meaningless. Instead, you would need the support of witnesses—family members or friends—who could verify, for example, that at the time of the marriage one or both of the spouses did not intend the marriage to be exclusive and lasting or lacked free consent due to family pressure or other circumstances. I can conceive of situations, however, where such verification might be difficult. For example, let us say the marriage took place many years ago and people who knew the couple well back then

36 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

are no longer around or available. Under this circumstance, it is possible that a marriage tribunal might accept the simple sworn testimony of a spouse—although that tribunal might also require that someone who presently knows the spouse attest to that person’s veracity and reliability. The best advice I can give is that the person you have in mind should speak with a priest with long experience in handling marriage cases and seek his guidance on how to proceed.

Recently, in answering a question about Mass cards, you indicated that the donation given for the Mass was a freewill offering and that it should be explained as such, rather than as the “cost.” But my experience is otherwise; currently, at our parish, the fixed price is $15. Similarly, when my mother passed away some years ago I was told by the undertaker that our pastor requested a fee of $100 before the Mass could be offered. That upset me, especially since I was involved in several ministries at the parish. Could you comment, please? (Southwestern New Jersey)

Though I have said it before, it is worth mentioning again: the answer to the often-asked question “how much does a Mass card cost?” ought to

be “whatever you would like to donate.” In our parish we usually add, “the customary offering is $10” because we have found that people do like some guidance. Additionally, our secretary is instructed that, if she senses that a donation might be a burden, no money should be taken. When it comes to funerals, some parishes do have a set charge, which helps with the upkeep and maintenance of the church. For our parish the charge is $125, but that amount is simply a pass-through to whatever organist is hired to play and sing for the funeral. The church itself gets nothing. We ask our local funeral homes to explain to the bereaved family the reason for the fee. And again, we have sometimes waived even that charge when a family was struggling financially. In the case you bring up, it is possible that the information you received (about the $100 fee upfront) might have been a mistranslation, in which case you would have been better off talking to your pastor rather than to the funeral director. (Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@ gmail.com and 40 Hopewell St., Albany, N.Y. 12208.)

The First Amendment and religious freedom By Sister Joan L. Roccasalvo, CSJ

Contributor

Sister Joan L. Roccasalvo, is a member of the Congregation of St. Joseph, Brentwood, NY.

he U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has long championed universal access to health care. Nonetheless, it continues to voice moral concerns about the contraceptive mandate of the Affordable Care Act because it forces opponents of abortion-related services to pay for them. The mandate, advertised as ‘preventative health’ for women, is a misnomer. A few years ago, President Obama assured Cardinal Timothy Dolan that religious concerns would be protected in the crafting of the ACA. A c c o r d i n g t o D r. John Brehany, executive director of the Catholic Medical Association, the Obama administration has given every indication that it is hostile to religious freedom, to conscience rights and to any religious claims of judgment that would refuse or decline to provide reproductive services like abortifacients.

The Hobby Lobby case and beyond The Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of religious freedom. At issue for Hobby Lobby, a for-profit organization with Christian principles, was and is in opposition to provide four contraceptives that act as abortifacients as well.

➤ Why should religious institutions, Catholic or otherwise, be forced to pay for the sexual activity of others when this activity is morally opposed by the institutions? The Court said that the company should not be coerced into offering them to their employees; 16 other contraceptives are still available in their health package. The Hobby Lobby craft chain

employs 13,000 workers who are paid at least $15 an hour, well above the minimum wage; they have Sundays off. The company donates 10 percent of its profits to charity. A few days later, an unsigned order by the Court said, Christian Wheaton College need not comply with the ACA mandate. Moreover, it would not be forced to sign a form deputizing a third party to provide these services in its name because it refuses to be complicit in a decision which opposes its religious principles. The fate of non-profit Catholic organizations will be decided next year. In all, there are about 100 religious organizations opposed to governmental coercion of the contraceptive mandate. In an editorial, The Wall Street Journal states said, “judging by the liberal reaction, you would think the Supreme Court majority that struck down part of the

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 37

ObamaCare’s birth control mandate on Monday has suddenly imposed Shariah law.” It may boil down to this question: Why should religious institutions, Catholic or otherwise, be forced to pay for the sexual activity of others when this activity is morally opposed by the institutions? This is a case of religious freedom versus abortion. For the Obama Administration, abortion trumps religious freedom. Religious organizations serving the common good in a pluralistic society are the very ones being vilified. Does the government really want to punish these groups and limit religious freedom to the home or place of worship? If so, there will be fewer and fewer nationwide charities whose outreach for the common good is limitless.

The religion clause of the First Amendment Religious freedom is freedom from coercion, the absence of constraints and restraints on individuals in their efforts to pursue freely the positive values of religion. In this sense, the first colonists were united in their determination to worship freely and without constraints or restraints from the governments they left behind. Religious freedom is the recognition of the inviolability of the human person, individually and in association with others, in what concerns religious belief and action. The political or civil freedoms of the First Amendment, unlike later freedoms or rights, were assurance against coercive action (Francis Canavan, SJ, “Religious Freedom: John Courtney Murray, SJ and Vatican II”). The establishment clause of the First Amendment has two parts: the government (a) shall make no law establishing

a religion, and the government (b) shall not prohibit the free exercise thereof. This clause is an article of peace in a pluralistic society. What can be further stated about the First Amendment? America has proved by experience that political unity and stability are possible without uniformity of religious belief and practice, without the necessity of any governmental restriction on any religion. In areas allotted to the government, it is easier to differ without civil strife when religious differences are excluded. The Catholic Church is better off when left alone to carry out its identity and its mission. Why so? It is so, because religious freedom is guaranteed not only to individual Catholics, but also to the Church as an organized society with its own law and jurisdiction. “This independent authority has been the essential element of freedom in the political tradition of the Christian West” (Canavan).

Freedom from Religion Foundation On July 3, following the Hobby Lobby decision, the Freedom from Religion Foundation (RFRF) took out a full-page ad in the New York Times excoriating the five members of the Supreme Court for their decision in the case. Part of the ad reads: “Dogma Should Not Trump Our Civil Liberties. All-Male, All-Roman Catholic Majority on Supreme Court Puts Religious Wrongs Over Women’s Rights. “Are you dismayed and alarmed by the Supreme Court’s June 30 Hobby Lobby ruling? The Supreme Court’s ultra-conservative, Roman Catholic majority—Justice Roberts, Scalia, Alito, Kennedy and Thomas—has sided with zealous fundamentalists who equate contraception with abortion. The court

38 SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014

has granted employers with ‘sincere’ religious objections the right to deny women employees’ coverage for birth control. This ruling marks a turning point in the struggle to uphold civil liberties in the face of relentless attacks by the Religious Right.… “Congress must repeal RFRA [Religious Freedom Restoration Act]. Employers should have no right to impose their religious beliefs upon workers. Fight back! Won’t you join FFRF in waking up America to the growing dangers of theocracy?” The ad seeks donations from the readership.

Anti-Catholicism in the United States Anti-Catholicism–the last acceptable prejudice in the United States–has a long history, but a new anti-Catholicism has taken on a blatant and brazen coercion by the government in the name of freedom. This appears as the virtuous counterpart of hatred of the Catholic Church because of its unyielding defense of human life, marriage, and the family. “The freedom of the Church is a pregnant phrase,” writes Father John Courtney Murray, SJ. His thoughts as articulated in "We Hold These Truths" mean, in the first place, the freedom of the church as a spiritual authority to carry out her divine commission. But, secondly, it means the freedom of the church as the Christian people to live within her fold an integral supernatural life, a life with inherent super-political dignity that transcends the goals and power of the state. The church claims immunity from subordination to the state and its temporal ends. The chief example of this is matters dealing with the dignity of the whole person, marriage and the family.

OUR FAITH

Coercive power, St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher

“These are the times that try men’s souls.” It was true for Thomas Paine, and it remains true today. It was true in 1534, when Henry VIII declared himself the supreme head of the Roman Catholic Church in England. He demanded an oath of fealty from his subjects when his request to Rome for an annulment from his wife Catherine was refused—an annulment that would annul the first annulment to marry her. Sir Thomas More and Bishop John Fisher would not bend to a divorce that would free Henry to marry Anne Boleyn. For this reason, he had them beheaded. They were neither the first Englishmen nor the last to suffer martyrdom for the faith. In Robert Bolt’s play, “A Man for All Seasons,” there is a tense encounter between Cardinal Wolsey and Thomas More. The cardinal asks More, the future short-lived chancellor, to approve of the king’s divorce. More replies, “Well, I believe, that when statesmen forsake their own private conscience for the sake of their public duties, they lead their country by a short route to chaos.” At his mock trial, the future saint declared, “I am the king’s good servant, but God’s first.” These days, tension in the country runs high and moral un-freedoms threaten to bring us low. We are still the greatest country on earth, but we need to keep a close eye on John Fisher and Thomas More in the rearview mirror. (Sister Joan L. Roccasalvo e-mail address is jroccasalvo@optonline.net.)

Father J. Patrick Serna is pastor at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Sinton.

I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come By Father J. Patrick Serna

Contributor

n our seventeenth and final lineby-line reflection on the Nicene Creed, we will give an eschatological (the doctrine concerning the Last Judgment) analysis on our belief in “the resurrection of the dead” and “life of the world to come.”

St. John Paul II said that, “...eschatology has become irrelevant to contemporary man,” and he continues by saying that, “there is Someone who, in the end, will be able to speak the truth about the good and evil which man does” (Crossing the Threshold of Hope, “Does Eternal Life Exist,” 184). The final words of the Nicene Creed require us to remember that there is an eschaton, that is, a time in the future when The Last Things will take place for each one of us. Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI both spoke frequently in their pontificates about the rise of secularism and atheism in the world today. These two illustrious churchmen opined that humans in the world today choose to believe in no God, rather than believe in a God who can allow death and suffering in a world of increasing death and suffering. God does not cause suffering, evil or death; these are consequences of our misuse of free will. Mother Church helps us to understand the resurrection of the dead, and life of the world to come, when she states in the Catechism, “Death was therefore contrary to the plans of God the Creator and entered the world as a consequence of sin. ‘Bodily death, from which man would have been immune had he not AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 39

sinned’ is thus ‘the last enemy’ of man left to be conquered” getting there, smelling the roses along the way is also a huge (CCC, 1008). part of God’s plan. God conquers the last enemy, which is death, by and through To live according to Pope John Paul II’s eschatological model his resurrection. Ours is a God who experienced suffering, death is, basically, to live in friendship with Jesus. If we live daily with and resurrection and while we are constantly aware of personal Jesus, then we are assured of a death with Jesus, which then suffering and death in this life, we must remind ourselves of the culminates in the world to come, which is eternal life in heaven. hope for resurrection as well: “We were indeed buried with him “Heaven is the blessed community of all who are perfectly incorthrough baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised porated into Christ” (CCC, 1026). from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in In the last 17 months we have reflected on 17 phrases that newness of life” (Rom 6:4). make up the entire Nicene Creed, the authoritative symbol of God has revealed to us through the church’s magisterium that, what we summarily believe as Christians. While study is neces“Each man receives his eternal retribution in his immortal soul sary on this side of heaven, we must remember to live right and at the very moment of his death, pray incessantly. The Seraphic in a particular judgment that Doctor, St. Bonaventure said refers his life to Christ: either it best: “Consult grace, not entrance into the blessedness of doctrine; desire, not underheaven–through a purification standing; prayerful groaning, or immediately, –or immedinot studious reading; the I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven ate and everlasting damnation” spouse, not the teacher; God, and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one (CCC, 1022). not man; darkness, not clarity. Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, born of the An eschatological focus on Consult not light, but the fire Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true the Last Things looks to biblical that completely inflames the God from true God, begotten not made, consubstantial with passages such as this one, for a mind and carries it over to the Father; through Him all things were made. For us men point of departure: “...the dead God in transports of fervor and and for our salvation He came down from heaven, and by the in Christ will rise first. Then blazes of love. The fire is God. Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary and became we who are alive, who are left, Christ starts the flame with the man. For our sake He was crucified under Pontius Pilate, will be caught up together with fiery heat of his intense sufferHe suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the them in the clouds to meet the ing” (Mystical Opuscula, VII, third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into Lord in the air. Thus we shall 6). heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will always be with the Lord” (1 Thes In simple terms, St. Bonavencome again in glory to judge the living and the dead and His 4:16-17). ture is telling us to live what kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the An eschatological spirituality we believe, not letting belief Lord the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the which focuses only on the end be intellectual only. Our belief Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, times and Last Things, accordmust flow from our intellects who has spoken through the Prophets. I believe in one holy, ing to Pope John Paul II, is only to our hearts, affecting what we Catholic, and apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the getting half of it right. The other do and how we live. forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of half of a healthy eschatological The Nicene Creed begins the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen. spirituality is one which also with the Latin word “credo,” places great emphasis on the right now of living in relationship which means, “I believe.” The Nicene Creed ends with the word with God, through prayer, good living and the sacraments. In “amen,” which comes from the Hebrew word “‫“( ”ָאמַן‬aman”), other words, a healthy Christian spirituality is one which appre- which is the verb meaning “believe.” Belief culminates with the ciates the right now of a rich relationship with Jesus, on this side face-to-face beatific vision, which is eternal life. of heaven, as well as the not yet of the last things and eternal life. We must believe, and when we truly believe, God will use us to Pope John Paul II said, “Eschatology is not what will take bring His loving fire to transform a world that is cold. The best place in the future, something happening only after earthly life is yet to come, but until that time remember that the journey is is finished. Eschatology has already begun with the coming of also important. God gives us this pilgrimage for a reason. God Christ.” Of course, the arrival and attainment of eternal life is is also here, do not waste the good times that are now. our ultimate goal, but we Christians must remind ourselves that Amen.

Nicene Creed

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Our Lady of Sorrows and the prophecy of Simeon By Sister Anne Marie Walsh, SOLT

Contributor

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

very person’ s life is marked by both sorrows and joys. The two often intertwine in such a way as to make one impossible without the other.

When considering a feast like Our Lady of Sorrows, it is good to keep in mind that sorrow is always related to love. We do not grieve what we do not love. The greater the love, the deeper the sorrow when the good we love is lost, threatened, abused or violated in some way. Who can measure the sorrows of Our Lady? The fullness of grace abiding in her infused her with a love that completely transcended our human limitations. Because of this, her sorrow likewise knew no bounds. The two realities in her have been linked at various times to other titles, most notably “Our Lady of Compassion” and “Our Lady of Hope,” both beautiful because they speak to this union of love and sorrow. Simeon’s prophecy, as Mary and Joseph present the infant Jesus in the Temple, is the first public pronouncement to Mary of where her relationship with the God-Man, her child, will take her. Simeon utters mysterious words: “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Lk 2: 34-35). These words are intriguing. But they can be understood from the perspective of Mary’s unique motherhood. What mother does not know her child so well that even those things that seem otherwise hidden are not hidden to her? As children this amazed us in our own mothers. We would exclaim, “How did she know that? Does she have eyes in the back of her head?” Actually no. But mothers have eyes at the center of their hearts. Love gives one a vision into things that are otherwise concealed. And that love encourages us, like no other,

to remedy any evil or disorder in our hearts. With great solicitude a mother knows us as we really are and draws us to become all we are meant to be. There is some interesting scientific research that gives support to this even on a biological level. At a congress entitled “At the Dawn of Human Life,” organized by the Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the Catholic University of Rome during the Jubilee year 2000, Professor Salvatore Mancuso, head of the Gynecology Institute, presented some fascinating findings. The research gave proof that beginning in the fifth week of gestation, “…when a woman realizes she is pregnant, an infinite number of messages pass from the embryo to the mother, through chemical substances like hormones, neurotransmitters, etc.…and the embryo sends stem cells that colonize the maternal medulla and adhere to it. Lymphocytes are born from here and remain with the woman for the rest of her life.” Mancuso said, “ From the fifth week there is clearly a passing of cells, but messages begin at conception. Even during the first phases of cellular subdivision, when the embryo is moving in the fallopian tubes, there are transmissions through contact with the tissues touched by the moving embryo. Later, after implantation in the uterus, the dialogue is more intense through the blood and cells, and chemical substances that enter the mother’s bloodstream. Finally the child’s stem cells pass to the mother in great quantity both at the moment of birth, whether spontaneous or caesarean, as well as at the time of abortion whether spontaneous or voluntary.” When asked how long the fetus’ influence on the mother lasts, the professor answered “Stem cells have AUGUST 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 41

been found in the mother even 30 years after the birth. It could be said therefore that the pregnancy does not last the 40 canonical weeks, but the woman’s entire life…It is somewhat as though the thoughts of the child pass to the mother, even many years after his birth.” This is what Simeon’ s prophecy is about, though in a spiritual sense. It is a prophecy of the universal motherhood that will be given to Mary in the agony of Calvary. As a mother knows everything about her children, and suffers not only for, but also with her children, Mary, in an extraordinary way, was so one with Jesus in his sufferings and death that she is rightly called Co-Redemptrix. As her soul was mystically being pierced on Calvary, Jesus opened up a place large enough within her, to take on a universal motherhood for all of us. In one way, Mary’ s sorrows flowed from the sufferings of her innocent Divine Son. In another, they flowed from her maternal union with us and our indifference and ingratitude toward God’s unfathomable love for us. Her distress over those children who reject their Father’s love keeps her always at work and in intercession for the restoration of this relationship. She is near us always, helping us in all adversity, affliction, heartache and difficulty. St. John Paul II puts it beautifully this way: “Mary Most Holy goes on being the loving consoler of those touched by the many physical and moral sorrows which afflict and torment humanity. She knows our sorrows and pains because she too suffered, from Bethlehem to Calvary…Mary is our Spiritual Mother, and the mother always understands her children and consoles them in their troubles. Then, she has that specific mission to love us, received from Jesus on the Cross, to love us only and always, so as to save us! Mary consoles us above all by pointing out the Crucified One and Paradise to us!” (Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II, 1980). Mary continues to mother us from the death of sin into the Risen Life of Christ, laboring to bring us to true holiness, so that we can be born into eternal life and everlasting happiness. When we are all safely home, it is then, as the best of mothers, that her joy will be complete.

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August feasts of By 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 1 and 2 of St. Luke’s Gospel, we read the accounts of Jesus’ infancy. Then in Chapters 3 through 8, Luke tells us of episodes in the public life of Jesus.

Obviously, Jesus was a very important person to “the apostles in the making.” Their experiences of his activities made a very deep impression on them. On one occasion, then, when Jesus had prayed in solitude with the disciples as his only companions, he asked an important question, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” Their reply was “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” (Lk 9:18-19). And then Jesus posed the most basic of basic questions for the disciples: “Who do you say that I am?” In response, Peter rose to the occasion as he replied, “The Messiah of God” (Lk 9:20). Astoundingly true? Yes. Was it of immense importance for Peter to recognize this? Yes. But it was not yet time for this immense truth to be made known to all and so Jesus “rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone” (Lk 9:21). About eight days after the apostles had this experience Luke describes an even deeper experience, the Transfiguration of Jesus (Lk 9:28-36). We read about Jesus taking Peter, James and John up the mountain to pray. While he was praying, his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus. Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory. Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah…” While Peter was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud. Then from

of Jesus and Mary the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my chosen son; listen to him.” After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone (Lk 9:28-36). The Catholic Church celebrates this very rare account of a Gospel scene depicting on Earth the divinity of Jesus each year on Aug. 6–the feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord. Although many of us while praying with the Gospels opt to spend most of our time on the more human accounts, this emphasis on the divinity of Christ is of maximum importance. It calls us to see the interplay between the two experiences: the awesome reality of the Transfiguration of Jesus and the simpler but just as real experience of everyday life with him as he walked this earth. Both are of immense importance–to the Apostles who experienced both but also to us who accept both

as matters of faith. Also celebrated each year–on Aug. 15– is the very important Marian feast of the Assumption of Our Lady into heaven. As a child and young girl, Mary seemed to be an ordinary little Jewish girl, and this is also how she appeared to be after the extraordinary event of the Annunciation. Even after the birth of her baby son and the Holy Family’s return from Bethlehem to Nazareth, she seemed to be an ordinary young Jewish wife and mother. Like any mother, she protested when her 12-year-old son stayed behind her and St. Joseph in the temple in Jerusalem without telling them what he was doing (Lk 2:44-50). And the Gospel tells us that she did not understand his question, “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house” (v. 49). After that, they went back home like any family, but it is

important to realize that Mary did not forget these experiences. The Gospel tells us, “his mother kept all these things in her heart” (v. 51). And so, after she had completed her human vocation of raising her son to adulthood, in the Gospel here and there, we read of Mary’s presence in a crowd around him. Acts 1:14 tells us that, after Jesus’ ascension into heaven, the first community of Christians went to the Upper Rome where “All these devoted themselves with one accord to prayer, together with some women, and Mary the mother of Jesus…” (Acts 1:14). It is the infallible teaching of the church that at the end of her life, Mary was assumed–taken up–into heaven. This feast of Mary’s Assumption into heaven is so important that the church has designated this day as a holy day of obligation.

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August 2

Rummage Sale and BBQ at Christ the King School

Our Lady of Good Counsel Annual Family FunFest

On Aug. 2, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. in the school courtyard (1625 Arlington) in Corpus Christi. There will be BBQ plates for $6.50 (includes a drink). For more information call the school office at (361) 883-5391.

On Aug. 2 from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. at the K.C. Hall (1600 N. 14th Street) in Kingsville. There will be a silent auction (includes a hunting and fishing excursion), games, food booths, a raffle, live entertainment and brisket plates with all the trimmings. For more information, call the Parish Office (361) 592-3489, Joseph Ruiz FunFest Director at (361) 228-2323, or Juan Jose Sanchez FunFest Co-Director (361) 562-8497.

48th Annual Jamaica at Sacred Heart in Mathis

On Aug. 3 from 12-9 p.m. at the church (310 W. San Patricio Ave.) in Mathis. There will be live music, a cake walk, food booths, games, inflatables, horseshoe tournament and raffle. Tickets are $5 or 5 for a $20 donation. First prize is a BBQ pit with a $1,500 value. Gift cards will be awarded. Proceeds go to Church Renovation Fund. For more information and to purchase tickets contact Sandra at (361) 547-9181 or at sacredheartchurch@bizstx.rr.com

Women's Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Retreat at OLCC

On Aug. 7-10 at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). Register www. deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095, ext. 321.

Natural Family Planning Class

On Aug. 9 from 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. at 1426 Baldwin Blvd in Corpus Christi. Registration is $125, which includes a six hour introductory class, materials, and unlimited follow-up as needed. Register and pay online, or download registration form at www.diocesecc.org/NFP

Young Catholics Ablaze: Mass & Dinner

On Aug. 14 from 7-9 p.m. at the Newman Center (7002 Ocean Drive near Texas A&M Corpus Christi). The Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry of the Diocese of Corpus Christi invites you for Mass and Dinner with guest speaker Father Joseph Lopez. This group is for young adults ages 18-25. For more information go to www. diocesecc.org/YCA

September Liturgical Calendar 1 | Mon | Weekday | green/white [Labor Day: Mass “For the Sanctification of Human Labor”] 1 Cor 2:1-5/Lk 4:16-30 (431), or, for Labor Day, any readings from the Lectionary for Ritual | Masses (vol. IV), the Mass “For the Blessing of Human Labor,” nos. 907-911

2:6-11/Jn 3:13-17 (638) Pss Prop

15 | Mon | Our Lady of Sorrows (Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time) white | Memorial | 1 Cor 11:17-26, 33 (443)/Jn 19:25-27* or Lk 2:33-35* (639) Pss Prop

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AUG./SEPT. CALENDAR

Retrouvaille in Victoria

On Aug. 15-17 at the Spiritual Renewal Center (718 Gussie Schmidt Road) in Victoria. Retrouvaille has helped to save tens of thousands of marriages. While this healing ministry is not currently offered in the Diocese

of Corpus Christi, the Diocese of Victoria is offering spots to CC area couples. For more information, call 1-800-470-2230 or visit the web site at www.retrouvaille.org

16 Engaged Encounter

On Aug. 16–17 beginning at 7 a.m. at Pax Christi Retreat Center (4601 Calallan) in Corpus Christi. Engaged Encounter is an investment in your future. It is a weekend for engaged couples who are not civilly married or cohabitating. Registrations are due two weeks prior to the weekend. Registration for couples residing within the Diocese of Corpus Christi is $225. For couples residing outside the diocese the fee is $250. For registrations after the due date add $50. No refunds will be made with less than 14 days’ notice. Register online, or download registration form at www.diocesecc.org/eeonline

Young Catholic Professionals:

The Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry of the Diocese of Corpus Christi invites you to join the Young Catholic Professionals. This group is for young adults ages 26-39. For more information go to www.diocesecc.org/YCA

◗◗ Aug. 12: Adoration & Reconciliation | The second Tuesday of the month beginning at 6 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Church (7522 Everhart Road) in Corpus Christi.

◗◗ Aug. 26: God in our Medical Care | The fourth Tuesday of the month beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Hester's Café at Six Points. Mixer, food and presentation. Presentation is on our Medical Care: A Theology of Medical Care” with Father P. Koziel.

Santa Rosa De Lima 21st Annual Parish Festival

at 6 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish (5830 Williams Drive) in Corpus Christi.

Tuesday of the month beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Hester’s Café at Six Points. Presentation is on “Love & Responsibility (Part I)" with Father R. Vasquez.

On Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. at Corpus Christi Cathedral. Adoration is for all youth returning to school. For more information, contact the Office of Youth Ministry at (361) 882-6191.

Day of Prayer and Reflection at Sacred Heart

◗◗ Sept 9: Adoration & Reconciliation | Begins

◗◗ Sept. 23: Love & Responsibility | The fourth

Back to School, Night of Adoration with the Bishop

On Aug. 23 from 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Parish (422 North Alameda Street) in Corpus Christi. All are welcome. Day begins with Mass. Light breakfast and lunch provided. The day will be led by members of Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center. Register at www.deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095, ext. 321.

On Aug. 24 beginning at 8 a.m. join Santa Rosa De Lima Parish (203 Santa Rosa de Lima St.) in Benavides for their 21st annual parish festival. Bishop Michael

Mulvey will celebrate Mass at 9:30 a.m. There will be lots of food, a Country Store, Bingo, games, raffle and live music (at the City Park across from the church) from 1-10 p.m.

Men's Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Retreat

Women's English Cursillo

On Aug. 28-31 at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). Register www. deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095, ext. 321.

From Aug. 28–31 at the Corpus Christi Cursillo Center (1300 Lantana) in Corpus Christi. For more information call PreCursillo Chairperson Gloria Franco, at (361) 249-2450.

September 6

PreCana Marriage Preparation Seminar

On Sept. 6 from 8:45 a.m.–5 p.m. at St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles Parish (3901 Violet Road) in Corpus Christi. PreCana is a one-day marriage preparation seminar for the engaged. Registration is $60 due 14 days prior to the seminar date. For registrations after the due date add $10. No refunds will be issued. Reservations are not confirmed until payment is received in full. Register online or print and mail a printable registration form at www.diocesecc.org/ precana

St. James the Apostle

7 Fall Festival

On Sept. 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Refugio County Community Center. There will be BBQ brisket plates with all the trimmings, dessert and

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tea are $8 per plate. Fifteen gift card prizes will be raffled, including the grand prize, a $1,500 gift card. There will be children's games, a silent auction, a Mercado and a Bingo starting at 2 p.m. For more information, call the parish office at (361) 526-4454.

Cursillo de las mujeres (Español)

Cursillo de mujeres se esta formando para el 11 a 14 de Septiembre en el Centro de Cursillo Obispo T. Drury localizado en el 1300 Lantana en Corpus Christi, Texas. Para obtener más información, por favor llame al Vocal del Pre-Cursillo America Lopez al (361) 228-3316 o a Gloria G. Morales al (361) 364-4808 o glomore54@yahoo.com. Hacer un amigo, ser un amigo, y traer a un amigo a Cristo! Padrinos/ madrinas por favor de entregar las aplicaciones lo mas pronto posible para reservar el espacio de la candidata.

Natural Family Planning Class

On Sept. 13 from 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. at 1426 Baldwin Blvd, Corpus Christi. Natural Family Planning allows couples to plan pregnancies while following the teachings of the Church and respecting the gift of their married love. Registration is $125, which includes a six hour introductory class, materials, and unlimited follow-up as needed. Register and pay online, or download a registration form at www. diocesecc.org/NFP

Retreat Center. Register at www. deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095 ext. 321.

13 & 27

Faith Educators' Workshops –3 Locations

The Office of Religious Education presents the Rite of Blessing & Faith Educators' Workshops called “Teaching about God’s Gift of Forgiveness. Keynote speaker will be Dr. Robert McCarty.

On Sept. 25 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Congressman Solomon P. Ortiz International Center. The bi-annual fundraiser helps support the programs and services of Catholic Charities and the Mother Teresa Shelter.

Summer's End Extravaganza

Natural Family Planning Class

High School Youth Spectacular

◗◗ Sept. 13 | from 8 a.m.–12

p.m. at Corpus Christi Cathedral in St. Joseph Hall

◗◗ Sept. 27 | from 8 a.m.–12

p.m. at St. Joseph Church (1400 Brookshire) in Kingsville

◗◗ Sept. 27 | from 2–6 p.m.

at Our Lady of Victory Church (707 N. Avenue E) in Beeville.

Women's Ignatian Spiritual Exercises Retreat at OLCC

On Sept. 18-21 at Our Lady of Corpus Christi Retreat Center (1200 Lantana). Register www. deepprayer.org or call (361) 289-9095, ext. 321.

St. Mary Star of the Sea 6th Annual Fall Festival

Middle School Youth Spectacular

Day of Prayer and Reflection

On Sept.13 from 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. at St. James the Apostle Parish (202 E. Santiago St) in Refugio. Day begins with Mass. Light breakfast and lunch provided. The day will be led by members of Our Lady of Corpus Christi

On Sept. 20 from 11 a.m.–6 p.m. at St. Mary Star of the Sea (342 South Rife Street) in Aransas Pass. There will be food booths, children's games, music, raffle, Bingo and arts and crafts. For more information contact Fall Festival Committee member Dee Dee Weber at (361) 758-8964 or email rsddw@ cableone.net.

On Sept. 21 at the Richard Borchard Fairgrounds. Save the date for Sept. 21.

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Catholic Charities' 2014 Dinner and Dialogue with Bishop Mulvey

On Sept. 26 from 6:30–10:30 p.m. at Victorian Hall (5550 Kostoryz Rd.) in Corpus Christi. Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court #2544 of St. Joseph Church in Corpus Christi will host this event. The cost is $100 per couple or $55 per person. Table Sponsorships are $400 for 8. Come for dinner, prizes, live auction, and music. Proceeds will go to help support the parish. For more information, please contact Debra Martinez at St. Joseph Church at (361) 882-7912 or at sjoffice@stx.rr.om

On Sept. 27 from 9:30 a.m.– 3:30 p.m. at Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Parish, (603 East 5th Street) in Alice. Natural Family Planning allows couples to plan pregnancies while following the teachings of the Church and respecting the gift of their married love. Registration is $125, which includes a six hour introductory class, materials, and unlimited follow-up as needed. Register and pay online, or download registration form at www.diocesecc.org/NFP

The High School Youth Spectacular will be held at the Richard Borchard Fairgrounds. Save the date for Sept. 28.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 | SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC 47

Aug./Sept. 2014 Issue

SOUTH TEXAS CATHOLIC P.O. Box 2620 Corpus Christi, TX 78403 (361) 882-6191

Dinner & Dialogue with Bishop Wm. Michael Mulvey Thursday, September 25th Congressman Soloman P. Ortiz International Center Special guests from Brazil will share information about their unique drug and alcohol rehabilitation program called Fazenda da Esperanca. This Catholic community takes care of young drug and alcohol addicts, showing them a new way of life by living each day according to the gospel through community life, spirituality and work. (361) 442-2224 Ext. 24 or shoelscher@diocesecc.org for ticket and sponsorship details