December 17, 2010

Catholic san Francisco

(CNS PHOTO/COURTESY OF ST. ANDREI RUBLEV ICONS)

Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper

INSIDE THIS WEEK’S EDITION East-West Journey, Part 2 . . . 4 The Lubbeck martyrs . . . . . . 7 Vatican WikiLeaks . . . . . . . . 8 Christmas Liturgies . . . . 9-15 Archbishop’s Journal . . . . . 16

Breaking bread in the Tenderloin ~ Page 3 ~ December 17, 2010

Guadalupana pilgrimage ~ Page 12 ~

Advent message from Rwanda ~ Page 17 ~ ONE DOLLAR

Walk for Life Jan. 22 . . . . . 19 Service Directory . . . . . . . . 22

NEXT ISSUE JAN. 14 VOLUME 12

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No. 39

2

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

On The

Congrats to Mercy High School, Burlingame seniors Amy Kuhn and Annette Lee, here with Principal Laura Held, on qualifying as Commended Students in this year’s National Merit Scholarship competitions. More than 1.5 million students compete and Amy and Annette are among 34,000 students who have been honored at the Commended level.

Where You Live

By Tom Burke

Some of Serra High School lacrosse team and supporters include Nancy Hahn, Dean Ayoob, Alex Mills, Chris Kusber, Hilary Mcgloin, Aiden Goyette.

The Junipero Serra High School lacrosse team will adopt six families in need this holiday season. The project was coordinated with the help of team parents Hilary Mcgloin, mom of team member Matt Mcgloin, and Nancy Hahn, mom of team members, Will and Alex Mills. “All six teams for our project are a combination of varsity, junior varsity and incoming freshmen,” Hilary said. The effort is seen as team-building with students in charge of everything from shopping for food and wrapping presents to delivering food and gifts. Nancy and her husband, John,

Some of the class of ’84 from St. Gregory School: Christine Fadelli White, Jennifer Fox Matsuka, Stephanie Tomsic Hudelson, and Carla Walsh.

LIVING TRUSTS WILLS

have donated additionally to the good work through their Council was asked to collect blankets for distribution to insurance firm EPIC….Serra’s crew team delivered 111 the homeless. Quick to respond was the St. Vincent de Thanksgiving turkeys weighing 1,268 pounds to Second Paul Society and other frontline faith groups. By the Harvest Food Bank. For the past two years, members of way, the blankets were collected and delivered courtesy of Catholic Charities CYO. Rita is a the Serra crew team and the school’s longtime friend of the Archdiocese of Fathers’ Club have joined forces to San Francisco and I’ve been happy to help Second Harvest Food Bank feed interview her more than a few times local families on the special day.”This over the years on programs including is a great cause, which helps feed “Mosaic,” first Sundays at 5 a.m. on families here in our own community KPIX CBS 5 and, soon, methinks who have fallen on difficult times,” on The Archbishop’s Hour. Prayers noted crew parent Kevin Kearney…. please for Father Gerard O’Rourke, The class of 1984 from St. Gregory emeritus interfaith and ecumenical Elementary School in San Mateo liaison for the Archdiocese of San met in Napa to celebrate 40th birthFrancisco, and now residing at St. days in October. “We met in St. Gabriel Parish in San Francisco.

Helena,” said classmate, Stephanie Father Gerry is much missed here at Tomsic Hudelson. “People came the Pastoral Center and in the interfrom Chicago, Texas, Washington Congratulations to Geri and faith/ecumenical circle. His address DC, Pasadena, and other places.” The George Wesolek on the birth of is St. Gabriel Parish, 2559 40th weekend included wine tastings, pictheir first grandchild, Georgia Ave., San Francisco 94116…Thank nics, and a dinner party. “At our dinAlexandra Andres, born you for a wonderful year here On ner we each spoke about how we Sept. 14, 2010 to the couple’s the Street. Your submissions are the are one family, and will always stay daughter, Noelle Andres and heart of the column and we look to together,” Stephanie said….Thank her husband Steve. Geri teaches use every one. If you have submitted you to Rita Semel for her note on this at St. Anselm School in Ross an item and not seen it here, please column’s several items on The Crop e-mail or call me. Merry Christmas Walk for 2010. The mobile shelter and George is director of the and Happy New Year! Next issue funded by the walk is sponsored Office of Public Policy and of CSF is Jan. 14, 2011 – Did I say by the San Francisco Interfaith Social Concerns for the 2011? WOW!!…This is an empty Council of which Rita is executive Archdiocese of San Francisco. space without you. E-mail items and vice-chair and Msgr. John Talesfore, electronic pictures – jpegs at no less pastor of St. Mary’s Cathedral, is a member. The Cathedral is also one of the sites that than 300 dpi – to burket@sfarchdiocese.org or mail them welcomes the shelter and the homeless families it helps. to Street, One Peter Yorke Way, SF 94109. Don’t forget Rita also let me know that a wonderful example of inter- to add a follow-up phone number. Thank you. My phone faith cooperation took place recently when the Interfaith number is (415) 614-5634.

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December 17, 2010

Catholic San Francisco

3

Christmas in the Tenderloin The homeless and friends break bread together – and break down barriers their families, to bring breakfast to you, you feel that there are some people out It’s been a few years since James there who care,� said Irizarry, nodding to Gardner worked as a United Airlines the cooks and servers from Notre Dame flight attendant, but as he was polishing des Victoires. off his plate of pancakes and fruit that the “You get to talk and it encourages volunteers from The Gubbio Project had you,� he added. “There are a lot of good served up at the St. Boniface cafeteria people out there. They want to give you the other day it reminded him of what a hand.� It’s inspiring enough, he said, to the airline had drilled in him: customer make him contemplate a career change service. – away from homelessness, away from “They were looking for genuineness finance, to service. that wasn’t forced,� said Gardner, who “They are people not only giving put in 20 years at United before trying food; they are giving people a hand,� multimedia design and, now, homelesshe said. ness – although he prefers to call it his Clarence Beck, 65, was formerly a “adventure.� lumberjack in Oregon. He had a studio “You would see people interviewed apartment in San Francisco until bed to be flight attendants and they shined bugs drove him away and he’s hoping to much better than I did, but they obvifind another place. “If it were not for the ously lacked that genuineness. It’s not Gubbio Project there would be a lot of something you can teach. It is genuinely people, including me, who would be outthere or it is not there, and the Gubbio side in the cold,� said Beck, who seemed people have it,� he said. “They’re right to be enjoying the conversation no matter up there.� that his pancakes were cooling.

Gardner, his wool cap snug on his head “There would be a lot of people hurtthat cold morning was the beneficiary of ing if this did not exist, so it’s a wonderLeft to right, Jane Drury, James Gardner, Laura Slattery and Theresa Breski. the food and good cheer offered by the ful thing,� said Beck. “You don’t see Slattery is executive director of the Gubbio Project and Drury and Breski volunteers from Notre Dame des Victoires anyone frowning. They only frown when are volunteers from Notre Dame des Victoires Parish.

Parish. Every second Friday morning of it’s over.â€? the month – people from St. Ignatius and The volunteers had arrived at 6:30 other groups work other Fridays – they serve breakfast “It’s becoming family, breaking bread together, break- a.m., using the kitchen and cafeteria of the De Marillac to 20 to 25 people, almost all men, and engage them in ing down the barriers, and it is really more for the folks Academy next to St. Boniface on Golden Gate Avenue. conversation. That serves to dismantle barriers between who are housed, because they get a chance to deal with Lucas MuĂąoz, a lead volunteer at Notre Dame, flipped those with homes and those without. their own stereotypes and ideas and get to know who the pancakes in his clean white shirt – the employment lawyer The six-year-old Gubbio Project provides day shelter people are – who is behind the stereotype,â€? said Slattery. was soon off to work – and noted that the meal was the for the homeless of the Tenderloin, taking its name from On this day, there was not only 57-year-old Gardner vehicle “to get us to talk to people.â€? the town in Italy where, legend has it, St. Francis of Assisi – “I’m going to come out of this adventure a much bet“You learn names, you shake hands,â€? he said. “The brokered a truce between a hungry wolf and farmers. ter person,â€? he said – but also other interesting people, things that are interesting to me are the things that interThe work is a perfect fit for its executive director, Laura with personalities and stories and hopes and, to be sure, est everyone around the table – politics, sports, what is Slattery, by her own account, because she believes in disappointments. All of them, however, were appreciative. going on in the White House, what is going on with (San the ministry of serving the poorest among us, “treating Henry Irizarry, 39, had a career as a finance manager Francisco Mayor) Gavin Newsom, what is going on with them with dignity and compassion,â€? as well as providing before his circumstances changed. “When you look at the the Giants. These kinds of things are common to everyone a sanctuary. people who spend their time and money, leave their homes, CHRISTMAS IN THE TENDERLOIN, page 6 (PHOTO BY GEORGE RAINE/CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO)

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Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

Working toward unity of faith and worship is the goal, pilgrims learn ROME – Our Orthodox and Catholic pilgrims arrived in Rome on Monday, Nov. 22, and checked into the Hotel Michelangelo, just a few minutes’ walk from St. Peter’s Basilica.

The following morning, after an 8 a.m. Mass at St. Peter’s, we visited the Vatican office specially charged with ecumenical relations with other Christian churches, the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of Christian Unity. We met with Cardinal Kurt Koch, the new president of this council, only three days after he had been created a cardinal of the Catholic Church.

He had previously served as the Bishop of Basel, Switzerland.

Journey of Faith: East and West When Cardinal Koch entered the room he graciously greeted each of the 28 pilgrims individually before beginning the meeting. He expressed the pope’s strong dedication to the work of reunion between the Orthodox and Catholic churches, and his own deep commitment to that goal a well.

NEWS

in brief

Enjoy Advent’s silent moments, says archbishop VATICAN CITY – Enjoy moments of silence during Advent, “so as to listen to the voice of Jesus which speaks to our hearts,” Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli, president of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, said in a message for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe to media workers in Latin America.

“Let us stem the flood of daily cares and noises which so often overwhelms us,” he said. “Silence is like a white screen upon which we can project the film of our daily life so as to see it more clearly. If we projected it on a wall full of pictures, books and other objects, and with a background noise, we would perceive little. Only in silence can we make our choices with greater awareness. In silence we hear the voice of God, and thus become genuine bearers of His Word.”

Reforming Legionaries restrict founder’s profile ROME – Photos of the founder of the Legionaries of Christ, the late Father Marcial Maciel Degollado, may not be placed “alone or with the Holy Father” anywhere in Legionary or

Cardinal Koch described the work toward reunion as he understood it, noting the difficulty of some as well as the growing enthusiasm of many people in both churches. His Eminence invited questions and comments and many pilgrims spoke up, noting the “learning curve” that challenges ordinary Catholics and Orthodox alike. Everyone seemed to agree that could not mean that either church would change to become exactly like the other. Rather, members of each church need to know and to respect the other church, and to work together toward unity of faith and worship.

On Tuesday afternoon pilgrims toured the Scavi, the excavations under St. Peter’s Basilica. From ancient times the Vatican hill had been a burial place for Romans. This moving and fascinating tour explores the 2,000-year history of pagan and later Christian burials and burial customs, opening a window on the customs and cultures of many generations. The climax of the tour is a visit to the tomb of St. Peter the Apostle.

Later in the afternoon there was a motor coach tour of many points of interest in the city of Rome: the Colosseum, the ancient Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and

This is the second in Archbishop George Niederauer’s series on Orthodox and Catholics’ Nov. 21-Dec. 2 ecumenical pilgrimage to Rome, Athens and Constantinople (Istanbul). The archbishop and Metropolitan Gerasimos of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco led a 28-member group from both communities. several churches and basilicas. In the evening we had dinner together at a popular Roman restaurant.

On Wednesday morning we attended an audience with His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, in the Pope Paul VI Audience Hall (capacity 8,000). Our pilgrims were seated in the first rows of the hall. His Eminence Cardinal William Levada, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (and formerly Archbishop of San Francisco), presented Metropolitan Gerasimos and myself to the Holy Father, along with the UNITY OF FAITH, page 9

Regnum Christi centers, according to a decree issued Dec. 6 by the order’s director general.

The decree was the latest in a series of reforms after revelations that the Father Maciel led a double life in violation of church teachings, abused seminarians and fathered several children.

However, the decree said members of the order and its lay association “may privately keep a photograph of the founder, read his writings or listen to his talks.”

Father Maciel’s “personal writings and talks will not be for sale in the congregation’s publishing houses, centers, and works of apostolate,” it said.

Father Maciel’s birthday, baptismal day, name day, and priestly ordination anniversary are not to be celebrated, the decree said.

Anti-Christian violence in Iraq “no longer bearable” WASHINGTON – More than half of Iraq’s Christians, estimated to number 800,000 to 1.4 million before the American-led invasion in 2003, have fled the country and more are leaving in the wake of the Oct. 31 terror attack on a Syrian Catholic church in Baghdad, Catholic News Service reported.

Iraqi officials pledged to protect the Christians, but their pledges have been met with skepticism.

Conditions for Iraqi Christians “are no longer bearable,” stated a December report from a Christian committee for Iraqi refugees in Syria. “The people are living behind locked doors, they are compelled to take long leaves of absence from work, in Mosul and other cities, as a result of the dangers they face at work.

“The universities are almost empty of Christian students, as are the schools. In some of the cities even the streets are almost empty of Christians,” the report said.

“It is as if they are in prison: without work, without study, without church meetings.”

(CNS PHOTO/PAUL JEFFREY)

By Archbishop George Niederauer

Members of Christ the King Parish dance during an outdoor Mass in Malakal, Southern Sudan, Nov. 21. As January’s referendum on independence for Southern Sudan approaches, tensions are running high in communities along what many expect will become a new international border with northern Sudan.

About the Cover

‘Mother of the Fairest Love’ Mary and the Child Jesus are portrayed in the icon “Mother of Fairest Love” by Father William Hart McNichols. The Christmas season begins with the Dec. 24 evening vigil commemorating the birth of Christ and ends with the feast of the Baptism of the Lord Jan. 9.

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December 17, 2010

Catholic San Francisco

5

Green Bay bishop becomes first in nation to approve Marian apparitions CHAMPION, Wis. (CNS) – Bishop David L. Ricken of Green Bay has approved the Marian apparitions seen by Adele Brise in 1859, making the apparitions of Mary that occurred some 18 miles northeast of Green Bay the first in the United States to receive approval of a diocesan bishop.

The Dec. 8 decree on the apparitions’ authenticity comes nearly two years after Bishop Ricken opened a formal investigation.

On Jan. 9, 2009, he appointed three theologians to study the history of them.

“They are all theologians with a particular concentration and expertise in the theology of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” said Father John Doerfler, vicar general and chancellor of the diocese. Although the three theologians were not named by the diocese, Father Doerfler said two of the three are internationally recognized and they have “general experience in examining apparitions.”

Brise, a Belgian immigrant, was 28 when Mary appeared to her three times in October 1859. The first appearance took place while Brise was carrying a sack of wheat to a grist mill

near Robinsonville, now known as Champion.

A few days later, Mary appeared to Brise as the woman walked to Sunday Mass in another town, and again on her way home. When Brise asked who the woman was, Mary responded, “I am the Queen of Heaven, who prays for the conversion of sinners and I wish you to do the same.”

She told Brise to “gather the children in this wild country and teach them what they should know for salvation. Teach them their catechism, how to sign themselves with the sign of the cross and how to approach the sacraments.”

Brise devoted the rest of her life to teaching children, began a community of Third Order Franciscan sisters and built a school next to the shrine. She died on July 5, 1896, and was buried in a small cemetery just east of the chapel.

Father Doerfler, who serves as the shrine’s rector, said official recognition of the apparitions affirms “the mystery of God’s providence.”

“He has had the Blessed Virgin Mary appear here. I do not know the reasons why,” he told The Compass, Green Bay diocesan newspaper.

“All of this ... has to do with God’s plan to bring people to salvation through his son Jesus Christ.”

Visionary claims questioned from early Christian times, book says VATICAN CITY (CNS) – The very idea of Marian apparitions has been met with skepticism within the church from early Christian times, a new book shows.

The 1,600-page Italian edition of the Dictionary of “Apparitions” of the Virgin Mary lists more than 2,400 claims of people alleged to have seen Mary, as well as the consequences of such announcements. Only 15 of these have been officially recognized by the church.

“The apparitions are not seen with the most benign eye by the church,” said French Father Rene Laurentin, a co-author of the book.” Apparitions are the least scientifically studied, the most hidden and most controversial of all theological subjects.”

Father Laurentin worked for more than 50 years on the catalog at the request of bishops and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. The goal, he said, was “to put to rest the many misunderstandings and confusion” surrounding visionary claims.

But new diagnostic techniques and modern psychology can help at least in eliminating the claims of people suffering from hallucinations or other pathologies, experts said at a Dec. 13 news conference.

Advanced brain imaging tests show that a specific part of the brain is active during ecstatic experiences, said Dr. Tonino Cantelmi, professor of psychiatry at the Pontifical Gregorian University. Researchers are now saying “that there may be something that is not psychologically explainable,” he said.

(CNS PHOTO/PATRICIA COLL FREEMAN, THE ANCHOR)

By Sam Lucero

Alaskan Catholics, Orthodox venerate the real St. Nicholas ANCHORAGE, Alaska (CNS) – St. Nicholas, from whom the character of Santa Claus comes, looms large in Alaska where multiple Catholic and Orthodox churches bear the saint’s name.

His generosity and kindness to children is legendary, and veneration of the fourthcentury saint spans 1,700 years. “St. Nicholas is next to the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist in devotion and veneration,” said Father James Barrand, pastor of St. Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic Church in Anchorage.

Known in the West as the patron of children, St. Nicholas is seen in the East primarily as the patron of sailors, based on accounts of his calming the seas during his return from a pilgrimage in the Holy Land and his appearance to storm-tossed sailors off the coast of

Lycia. These miracles were related across the world, especially by missionaries to Russia.

Deacon Charles Rohrbacher, an iconographer at the Catholic Cathedral of the Nativity in downtown Juneau, said there are many icons and images of St. Nicholas on fishing boats and other sailing vessels in Alaska and elsewhere.

According to Father Michael Oleksa, an Orthodox priest who is rector of St. Alexis Church and chancellor of the Orthodox Diocese of Sitka, Anchorage and Alaska, more churches in the Orthodox tradition are named for St. Nicholas than for any other saint.

The oldest of these is St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church in Juneau, established in 1894. According to its pastor, Father Simeon Johnson, the church received its name after a vision experienced by Tlingit tribal elders.

The son of a leader in the community had

journeyed to San Francisco where he was to be baptized. While he was gone, several people had dreams of a bearded, balding, white-haired man.

When the young man returned, he brought an image of St. Nicholas. After the elders recognized it as the one from the dreams, the church received its name and more than 700 Tlingit people were baptized there.

St. Nicholas Catholic Church in North Pole, Alaska, received its name with help from the Catholic Church Extension Society, which helped build the church. The town attracts tourists, and many photograph the church and its statue of a kneeling Santa praying at the feet of the infant Jesus.

An icon of St. Nicholas of Myra hangs in the Byzantine Catholic church bearing his name in Anchorage.

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Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

Senior finds prayers answered with support from Catholic Charities CYO John Orr was one of the first residents to move into Edith Witt Senior Community in San Francisco in August 2010.

The center, a Mercy Housing residential housing community, is home to low-income seniors. The building houses affordable apartments as well as a 400-square-foot primary health center operated by the South of Market Health Clinic.

Catholic Charities CYO provides a multitude of on-site, community-based, and integrated services to the senior community, including needs assessment, financial literacy training, ongoing case management, and referrals to appropriate outside resources. These services – valued at $40 per hour – assist more than 100 seniors in their progress toward residential, financial and psycho-social stability.

CCCYO’s Advent Season of Caring “I had been praying many times a day and night for a safe home and a better life,” John recalled. “When I found out that I was moving into my own apartment, the first thing I thought was, ‘God has shown me mercy.’ I still can’t believe that I am here.”

John’s journey to Edith Witt is a remarkable story. He moved to San Francisco when he was 10 years old with his single mother. He grew up with an interest in the arts and a love for the world around him. When he was 17, he was one of the pioneers of the SF Mime Troupe, a racially integrated group of actors performing in “A Minstrel Show” around the country. While in the Troupe, he associated with many notable cultural icons of the time and was active in the civil rights movement.

When he returned to San Francisco in the 1970s, he began delivering ice cream for Old Uncle Gaylord’s Ice Cream and then became a school bus driver. When he got

Christmas in the Tenderloin . . .

■ Continued from page 3 who lives in the city, regardless of where you lay your head at night,” he said.

Jane Drury from Notre Dame keeps coming back because of the community spirit. “Sometimes people are down on their luck for just one month,” she said, “so they come here. They night be in transit to someplace else, but it is nice knowing that you are giving someone that extra push.”

She always learns something about and from the homeless guests during the breakfast encounters, she said. This day it was that conditions have not improved in places where the homeless congregate. The people told her this

John Orr’s move to a home of his own was an answer to his prayers after years of living on the streets. He recalled his first thought on learning he would move into an apartment: “‘God has shown me mercy.’

I still can’t believe that I am here.”

laid off from bus driving in San Francisco, he began to drive in Sausalito where he also worked as a teacher’s aide and had an additional third job working at a wine store.

John worked his three jobs, seven days a week until 1985 when his mother became ill. She began showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease and needed constant support. As her only caretaker, John was faced with the difficult decision to stop working in order to care for his ailing mother. He day they feel less secure. Drury is thinking about branching out in her ministry. “I’m not going to stop this, but I’m going to do something else that I can,” she said.

“This block rocks,” said Helen Loevenbruck, a retired former baker, referring to services provided on a stretch

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Marist Father Dennis Steik, the parochial vicar at Notre Dame des Victoires, had breakfast with two young, educated, Catholic men and saw potential in them. He hopes he sees them again – and that their Christmas is blessed.

“Jesus was born in an open barn,” he said. “I always like that image of the stable because there are no doors on it. It is wide open,” just as the Franciscans of St. Boniface open their doors to the homeless at St. Boniface and are fed and attended to by the Gubbio Project staff and volunteers.

“How do we break down the barriers within ourselves that tell us that that person is ‘other?’” asked Slattery.

“How do we break down that barrier and say that person is my brother? We have opportunities every day,” she added.

“We just don’t see it. I get to see it up close.”

Slattery added, “It is all about inclusion and community and what it is to be a follower of Christ.”

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cared for her until 1987 when she passed away.

After his mother passed away, John’s life began to spiral downhill and he was diagnosed with severe depression. In 2002, he was forced to leave the apartment he had lived in for 27 years. “That home was stacked with too many memories,” John said. “I had to leave. That was how I became homeless.”

John lived in Golden Gate Park for five years where he took photos with the camera that was one of his only possessions. John says his photos show the life he saw as a homeless person. In 2008, John began to work back toward a life of self-sufficiency. He moved into a hotel in San Francisco’s Tenderloin and he began seeing a social worker. After months of filling out applications for permanent housing options he finally received word that he was accepted into Edith Witt. John lives in his own apartment and is thankful for the quiet, safe environment he has now.

John has lived at Edith Witt for about three months and meets with his Catholic Charities CYO case manager, Cynthia Rodriguez regularly.

John was left with nothing after giving all his time and attention to help his ailing mother. Now, over 20 years later, he is just one of the faces of aging adults who are living their lives with dignity because of the support received through Catholic Charities CYO. John’s story is the third in a series from Catholic Charities CYO’s Advent Season of Caring campaign. This holiday giving campaign shares intimate stories of the clients we serve and the ways in which their lives have been changed for the better, because of our work and the generosity of our loyal supporters. For ways you can help, visit www.cccyo.org/seasonofcaring or call Marti Sullivan at (415) 972-1291.

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Catholic San Francisco

7

By Gunther Simmermacher LUBECK, Germany (CNS) – As the Nazi executioner beheaded three Catholic priests and a Lutheran pastor, one after another in a matter of minutes, their blood flowed together, creating a powerful symbol for ecumenism in northern Germany.

On June 25, the three Catholic martyrs of Lubeck – Fathers Johannes Prassek, Eduard Muller and Hermann Lange – will be beatified in the historic city’s Sacred Heart Church, a stone’s throw away from the Lubeck Cathedral, the ministerial home of the Rev. Karl Friedrich Stellbrink, their Lutheran counterpart. Rev. Stellbrink will be honored in a special way that day as well.

The four were executed in Hamburg Nov. 10, 1943. All had been found guilty of disseminating anti-Nazi material – such as the homilies of Cardinal Clemens von Galen of Munster – and other “treasonous” activities.

Although they were just four of more than 1,600 victims of Nazi political executions that year, their case drew the particular attention of Adolf Hitler and propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels. Hitler reportedly intervened personally in the case of the four clerics, formulating the charges and instructing prosecutors on their strategy.

After the four were sentenced to death June 23, 1943, in a trial widely considered a farce, Goebbels wrote in his diary: “I urge that the death sentences will in fact be carried out.” An appeal for clemency by Catholic Bishop Hermann Berning of Osnabruck was rejected.

Father Franz Mecklenfeld of Sacred Heart Church told Catholic News Service that news of the beatification was received with “immense joy” by his parishioners.

It also is being followed “with great interest in the city of Lubeck,” traditionally a Lutheran stronghold. In September, the daily Lubecker Nachrichten published a series of articles on the lives of the four martyrs.

“The martyrs have a great significance for the city,” Father Mecklenfeld said. “They have become ‘shining towers’ in the city of Lubeck,” where the skyline is famous for its seven Gothic church spires.

The notion of beatifying the three Catholics when their Lutheran companion cannot be honored in the same way has given rise to some controversy. The Rev. Heinz Russmann, a Lutheran pastor in Lubeck, wrote that the beatification would represent a painful division that would be harmful to ecumenism.

Either all four should be beatified, or none, he wrote.

His view is shared by the conservative local politician Hans-Lothar Fauth, a Catholic, who has said that all four have long been publicly acclaimed as saints, regardless of denomination, and therefore require no official recognition.

Father Mecklenfeld said his parish always has been sensitive about maintaining the ties among all four martyrs.

Ecumenical relations in Lubeck are marked by the shared martyrdom. Pope Benedict XVI, a German, has recognized the significance of that friendship.

In an address to the German ambassador to the Vatican Sept. 13, he said the friendship among the clerics while in jail “represents an impressive witness to ecumenical prayer and suffering which in many places flowered among Christians of different denominations during the dark days of national socialism. We may regard these witnesses as shining lights on our common ecumenical path.”

PRIESTS TO BE BEATIFIED, page 8

(CNS PHOTO)

Priests to be beatified were joyful as they awaited execution by Nazis

The three Catholic martyrs, pictured clockwise from bottom left, are Fathers Eduard Muller, Johannes Prassek and Hermann Lange are to be beatified in June.

Rev. Karl Friedrich Stellbrink is pictured at bottom, right.

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Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

WikiLeaks show Vatican on Irish clergy abuse, “cardinals’ technophobia”

By John Thavis VATICAN CITY (CNS) – U.S. diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks portray the Vatican as horrified over clerical sex abuse in Ireland but also concerned that Irish investigators’ procedures offended Vatican sovereignty.

Largely written by U.S. Embassy officials to the Holy See, the cables, released Dec. 10-12, touched on a wide range of issues. One criticized the Vatican’s communications apparatus and said Pope Benedict XVI was surrounded by advisers who make sure dissenting voices are not heard.

The Vatican issued a disclaimer Dec. 11, saying the reliability of the cables must be evaluated carefully. “Naturally these reports

Priests to be beatified . . .

■ Continued from page 7 Father Lange’s writings bear out the pope’s sentiment. In a July 1943 letter, he wrote: “The suffering borne in common over the last years has brought the two Christian churches closer to one another. The shared imprisonment of the Catholic and the evangelical (Lutheran) clergy is a symbol

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reflect the perceptions and opinions of the people who wrote them and cannot be considered as expressions of the Holy See itself, nor as exact quotations of the words of its officials,” it said in a statement.

The sex abuse scandal in Ireland was treated in a memo dated Feb. 26, 2010, written by Julieta Valls Noyes, the deputy chief of mission at the embassy. She wrote that the Vatican had responded relatively quickly to the revelations of sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Dublin, in part because it had “learned key lessons” from the U.S. sex abuse scandal in 2002.

“Vatican and Irish officials’ first concern was for the victims,” the cable said. But that concern was sometimes overshadowed by the public perception in Ireland that the

Vatican was worried about “pettily procedural” matters, it said.

It added that contacts at the Vatican and in Ireland expected the sex abuse crisis to continue for several years, as new allegations from other Irish dioceses come to light.

The cable on Vatican communications, dated Feb. 20, 2009, was written after the Vatican had just announced the lifting of the excommunication of four traditionalist bishops, including one who, it turned out, had minimized the Holocaust.

“The Holy See’s communications operation is suffering from ‘muddled messaging’ partly as a result of cardinals’ technophobia and ignorance about 21st-century communications. Only one key papal adviser has a

Blackberry and few have e-mail accounts.

It has led to PR blunders on issues as sensitive as the Holocaust,” said the cable, also written by Valls Noyes.

It said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, was overworked and had little influence on major decisions because he was not part of the pope’s inner circle. It described Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican secretary of state, as a “yes man” unlikely to bring the pope bad news.

According to Italian reporters, Cardinal Bertone responded to the WikiLeaks report by saying he was “very proud to be described as a ‘yes man,’ since this colorful description accurately reflects my support for the pastoral work of the pope.”

of this community of suffering, but also of reconciliation.”

Rev. Stellbrink, 49 when he died, has been described as a prickly character who initially was an eager supporter of the Nazi party. The World War I veteran soon became disillusioned with Nazism, especially its anticlericalism, and began to criticize it. He was expelled from the party in 1937 for refusing to denounce his friendship with Jews.

Rev. Stellbrink was the first Protestant

cleric to be executed in Germany. Unlike his Catholic friends, he received no support from his church, which rehabilitated him only 50 years later, noting its “pain and shame” at the disgraceful treatment of the heroic pastor.

Father Prassek, 32, regularly preached against Nazism and ministered illegally to forced laborers from Poland, even learning Polish for that purpose. Just before his arrest Father Prassek was honored for his courage in rescuing people during the carpet bomb

attack on Lubeck – the first on any German city – on Palm Sunday 1942.

Like his companions, he expected to be executed after their arrest. On the day of the court’s judgment, he wrote: “God be praised, today I was sentenced to death.” Later, physically broken after more than a year of torture and hardship in jail, he looked forward to his execution.

“To be allowed to die fully conscious and quietly prepared is the most beautiful thing of all,” he wrote.

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December 17, 2010

Christmas Liturgies

CATHEDRAL OF ST. MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION

Teaching Christmas to kids

By Valerie Schmalz

1111 Gough St., San Francisco • Tel: (415) 567-2020

DECEMBER EVENTS AND CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2010 Two children with a creche at Immaculate Heart of Mary Preschool in Belmont.

Las Posadas ~ Saturday, December 18, 2010 Mexican/Latin American tradition reenacting Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem and their search for lodging before Jesus’ birth 6:00PM-9:00 PM

Hands-on is good. So participating in Nativity plays, setting up creche in your home, particularly ones with “figures made of durable materials kids can touch,” and letting your children help, as well as attending and participating in Christmas pageants, or visiting live nativities, are all good ways to absorb the Christmas story, Clausing said.

“Parents can look for ‘teachable moments’ such as reminding kids that Jesus is the light of the world as they drive around together at night and see all the lights going up in our neighborhoods or making Advent wreaths and other crafts,” Clausing said.

Clausing said that as a parent she tries to teach her girls that the Christmas season is about giving to others.

“We should do what Jesus came to do for us,” Father Piderit said. “He came to make us holy, generous, and to elevate us to his divine life. So, to prepare, we should do something that emphasizes holiness, generosity or beauty.”

Celebrating Christmas means preparing for Christmas and going to Mass on Christmas Day. Both are essential, Father Piderit said.

“Preparing for Christmas is analogous to a marathon,” he said. “Preparing is fun and, if you don’t prepare, it’s impossible to feel good about yourself on the day of the marathon.”

Thursday, December 23, 2010 Regular Daily Mass Schedule: 6:45 a.m., 8:00 a.m. and 12:10 p.m.

The Cathedral will be closed after the 12:10 PM Mass for Christmas Preparations

Christmas Eve ~ Friday, December 24, 2010 Regular Daily Mass Schedule: 6:45 a.m., 8:00 a.m. and 12:10 p.m.

7:30 p.m. Caroling with the Cathedral Choirs of Boys and Girls 8:00 p.m – Mass 11:30 p.m. – Caroling – Cathedral Choir Midnight Mass Archbishop George Niederauer, Principal Celebrant

Christmas Day ~ Saturday, December 25, 2010 There will only two Maases on this day.

11:00 a.m. Mass – Cathedral Choir 1:00 p.m. Mass – Coro Hispano The Cathedral will close for the Day at 3:00 p.m.

Please note: NO 5:30 p.m. Mass today.

Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Sunday, December 26, 2010 (PHOTO COURTESY SERVIZIO FOTOGRAFICO DE “L’O.R.”, CITTA DEL VATICANO)

Telling the story of Christmas is one of the best ways to share the true meaning of Christmas with children whether they are toddlers or college freshmen.

Also, consider participating in parish or school activities such as canned food drives or sock collections, or make small personal sacrifices as part of the waiting for Christ’s birth.

This is also the time to seek the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to listen closely to the readings at all four Sundays of Advent, said Vivian Clausing, associate director of Youth Ministry and Catechesis for the Archdiocese of San Francisco.

“I think the true meaning of Christmas is recognizing the gift we have in Jesus’ birth,” Clausing said.

Attending Mass on Christmas after an Advent spent preparing makes the Mass mean much more for teens and young adults as well as for everyone else, says Jesuit Father John Piderit, president of Catholic Education Institute, an organization devoted to helping Catholic colleges and high schools strengthen their Catholic identity. Visit a church daily and pray for five minutes, give money each day to a poor person or write a check daily to a charity, or prepare something beautiful for someone else, Father Piderit suggested.

“Make it yourself, bake it, draw it, sing it or compose it,” he said.

Read your children stories about Christmas, the Angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary, the shepherds, the Magi, the birth of Jesus, suggests Lauri Hill, director of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Preschool in Belmont. “The gift of Christmas is God giving us the gift of Jesus showing how to be in the world,” Hill said.

Have discussions about the meaning of love and how we show it, Hill advised. She cited as an example the story of Mary riding on a donkey to Bethlehem: “Wasn’t that a beautiful thing that the donkey could take Mary?”

“We look at our preschool children here and they are so filled with God’s wonder and love,” Hill said. “They believe in miracles.

They live in that mystery. It is not a stretch to them at all.”

As Cardinal William Levada looks on, Greek Orthodox Metropolitan Gerasimos presents the Holy Father with a gift from the San Francisco pilgrims – a miniature of the Golden Gate Bridge with a silver medallion of the head of Christ at the center.

Unity of faith . . .

■ Continued from page 4 hierarchs and clergy of both churches among the pilgrims. His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos and I presented Pope Benedict with a lovely and highly symbolic gift from the pilgrims: a miniature of the Golden Gate Bridge with a silver medallion of the head of Christ at the center of the bridge. The inscription on

Catholic San Francisco

the marble base memorialized our pilgrimage and our wish to build a bridge between two great ancient Christian traditions.

On Wednesday afternoon the pilgrims toured the Vatican Museum, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. In the evening our guest at dinner together was Cardinal Levada. On Thursday morning (Thanksgiving Day back home in the United States) we departed Rome for Athens, the second destination on our “Journey of Faith: East and West.”

Regular Sunday Mass Schedule: 7:30a.m., 9a.m., 11a.m. and 1p.m.(in Spanish)

Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas Friday, December 31, 2010 Regular Daily Mass Schedule: 6:45 a.m., 8:00 a.m. and 12:10 p.m.

The Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God Saturday, January 1, 2011 Archbishop Niederauer has determined that, in accord with the practice of neighboring dioceses, the obligation to attend Mass on January 1, 2010, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God is dispensed.

The Celebration of the Eucharist at: 6:45 a.m., 8 a.m., and 12:10 p.m.

January 1st is not a holy day of obligation NO 5:30 p.m. Mass today

The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord Sunday, January 2, 2011 Regular Sunday Schedule: 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Spanish)

Feast of the Baptism of the Lord Sunday, January 9, 2011 Conclusion of the Christmas Season Regular Sunday Schedule: 7 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. - Spanish 3:30 p.m. – Epiphany Lessons and Carols

9

10

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

(PHOTOS BY JOSE LUIS AGUIRRE/CATHOLIC SAN FRANCISCO)

Christmas Liturgies Guadalupana pilgrimage and Mass

Guadalupe Rosas, who is from Mexico, at a special Mass for Our of Lady of Guadalupe at St. Mary’s Cathedral Dec. 11. Marching with thousands of worshipers in the Archdiocese’s annual Guadalupana pilgrimage, she carried a painting of the virgin 12 miles from All Souls Church in South San Francisco to the cathedral. Archbishop George Niederauer prayed with other worshipers – including a young man with a statue of the virgin in his arms – before the image of Our Lady that permanently hangs in the cathedral. The image was decorated with roses to signify Our Lady’s miraculous appearance to Juan Diego near Mexico City in December 1531.

The Parish of St. Catherine of Siena 1310 Bayswater Ave., Burlingame CA 94010

Christmas Masses: Christmas Eve (Friday, December 24) 4:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m.

12 Midnight

Christmas Vigil Mass Family Mass Christmas Midnight Mass 11:30 p.m. - Christmas Concert

Christmas Day (Saturday, December 25) Masses: 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 12 Noon

Merry Christmas and Feliz Navidad From the staff and parishioners of Sacred Heart Church, Olema And St. Mary Magdalene, Bolinas December 24, 2010 5:00 pm Mass, Olema

December 24, 2010 6:30 pm Bilingual Mass, Olema

December 25, 2010 8:30 am Mass, Olema

December 25, 2010 10:45 am

St. Anthony of Padua 1000 Cambridge St., Novato 415.883.2177

Christmas 2010 Friday, December 24, 2010 • Christmas Eve Masses at 5:00 pm (Children's Mass), 7:30 pm and 10:00 pm

Saturday, December 25, 2010 • Christmas Day

Mass, Bolinas

Masses at 7:00 am, 9:00 am, 11:00 am and 5:00 pm

December 26, 2010 8:30 am

Sunday, December 26, 2010 The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

Mass, Olema

December 26, 2010 10:45 am Mass, Bolinas

January 1, 2011 9:00 am Mass, Olema

Masses at 7:00 am, 9:00 am and 11:00 am

Saturday, January 1, 2011 The Blessed Virgin Mary, The Mother of God Masses at 9:00 am and 5:00 pm

CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE ST. MATTHEW C ONFESSIONS CATHOLIC CHURCH Sat., Dec. 18: 11:30 a.m. – 12 Noon 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Mon., Dec. 20 through Thurs., Dec. 23: Chapel 5:00 p.m. –5:30 p.m.

1 NOTRE DAME AVENUE SAN MATEO, CA 94404 CHRISTMAS 2010 May the peace of the Lord Be yours today And His love abide With you forever!

Devotedly in Christ Rev. Anthony E. McGuire Rev. William J. Ahlbach Rev. Dominic S. Lee Rev. Juan M. Lopez Deacon James F. Shea Deacon Rafe E. Brown

Friday, Dec. 24: Main Church 11:00 a.m. – 12 Noon

MASSES Fri. – Christmas Eve, Dec. 24: 5:00 p.m. Family Mass, 7 p.m. (Spanish), 10:00 p.m.

Christmas Carols begin at 11 p.m.

Sat. Christmas Day, Dec. 25: 6:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 8:45 a.m.

(Spanish), 10:45 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

3:00 p.m. (Chinese) Chapel

NEW YEARS’ DAY –FRI. JAN. 1, 2011 Is not a Holy Day of Obligation but a day of special devotion to Mary, the Mother of God. You are encouraged to begin the New Year under her patronage.

Sat., Jan. 1, Masses: 6:30 a.m., 8:15 a.m.

5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (Spanish)

5:00 p.m. - Msgr. Michael Harriman 7:00 p.m. - Fr. Joe Landi with our Children’s Choir 11:15 p.m. - Singing of Carols Midnight Mass - Msgr. Michael Harriman and Clergy with our Adult Choir and Orchestra

7:30 a.m. - Fr. Daniel Keohane with Anna Maria Mendieta, Harpist 9:30 a.m. - Fr. Daniel Keohane with Holy Spirit Music Ministry 11:30 a.m. - Fr. Joe Landi with Adult Choir and Orchestra No Evening Mass on Christmas Day (No Saturday Vigil Mass)

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

11

Christmas Liturgies Live nativity continues for 23rd year at Our Lady of Pillar Parish

By Valerie Schmalz The donkey’s name is Cosmo – and he is the only one who plays the same part every time in the live nativity at Our Lady of Pillar Parish in Half Moon Bay. Started in 1987 at the Marsh Farm near the Christmas tree farms and pumpkin patches on Route 92, the live creche moved to the parish about 10 years later, said Mel Schwing, a member of the sponsoring Knights of Columbus Council 7534, who started the tradition. “I’ve got 100 people involved in this,” said Schwing, 76. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Volunteers take turns playing Mary, Joseph, the shepherds and the Magi at the stable set up outside the church, and the donkey stays in a pen next to the stable where visitors feed him carrots and other treats. Some years the donkey is joined by sheep and goats, Schwing said. Coffee and donuts are usually available for visitors and parishioners.

Parishioner Katie Hoelzel costumes the ever-changing cast of volunteer actors before each showing. The Holy Family, shepherds and the Magi stand outside the church at the creche for about a half hour before Mass, then enter the church with the priest and sit in the front row during Mass.

“The three Kings and one of the shepherds

The human cast of the Our Lady of the Pillar live nativity production, a Half Moon Bay tradition for 23 years. Veteran supporting actor Cosmo the donkey, a fan favorite, was not present for the photo.

take up the collection and Mary and Joseph will take up the gifts,” Schwing said, adding they always receive a standing ovation at the end of Mass.

The event kicks off Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. with music by Joe and Angela Mansfield and continues through Jan 2, the feast of the Epiphany. Our Lady of Pillar is located at Kelly and Church streets.

Here is the schedule of events:

The National Shrine of Saint Francis of Assisi The Heart of San Francisco Columbus and Vallejo

Christmas Eve: 9 p.m. Mass Christmas Day: 10 a.m. Mass New Year’s Eve: 9:30 p.m. Concert 11:00 p.m. Mass of the Solemnity of Mary

Midnight Blessing of the City of San Francisco With the Relic of St. Francis of Assisi 610 Vallejo Street, San Francisco 415.986.4557

info@shrinesf.org • www.shrinesf.org “A CHRISTMAS MUSICAL” AT SHIPWRECK! Come capture the joyous spirit of Christmas at a very special, free Christmas Musical, featuring the Inspirational Voices of Shipwreck Gospel Choir, under the direction of world renowned Choir Director, Mr. Gregory Cole, Shipwreck’s new Director of Music, on Friday, December 24th at 7:00 p.m.

Dec. 18, 2-6:30 p.m. (including 5 p.m.

Mass); Dec. 19, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

(11:15 a.m. Mass); 12:45 p.m. Spanish Mass; Dec. 20, 21, 22, 23, 5-7 p.m.; Dec. 24, 4:30- 6:30 p.m. (5 p.m. Mass), 11:30 p.m.-1 a.m. (midnight Mass); Dec. 25, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (11:15 a.m. Mass); 12:45 p.m. Spanish Mass; Dec. 26, 10:30 4th Sunday of Advent Masses Regular Weekend Schedule Saturday 3:30pm Confessions 4:30pm Sunday Vigil Sunday 8:00, 9:30, 11:30am, 6:45pm Christmas Eve Masses 3:30pm Confessions 4:30pm Family Mass 12:00am Midnight Mass Christmas Day Masses 8:00, 9:30, 11:30am No evening Mass on Christmas Day

a.m.-12:30 p.m. (11:15 a.m. Mass); 12:45 p.m. Spanish Mass.

The live nativity ends with the Jan. 2 Mass at 11:15 a.m. in English and 12:45 p.m. in Spanish.

For more information, contact Mel Schwing at (650) 726-6765 or Cesar Sanchez (650) 823-1259 (Spanish).

Saint Stephen Catholic Church Eucalyptus Drive @ 23rd Avenue (near Stonestown Mall) 415.681.2444 www.saintstephenSF.org

Christmas Celebrations 2010

Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph Masses Saturday No Sunday Vigil at 4:30pm Sunday 8:00, 9:30, 11:30am, 6:45pm January 1st Mass Mary, Mother of God 9:30am Traditional Christmas Music at All Masses

ST. DOMINIC’S CATHOLIC CHURCH

“An American Christmas” Concert

Monday, December 20, 7:30 p.m., Church Nave, St. Dominic’s Solemn Mass Choir and Festival Brass

Advent Twilight Retreat Tuesday, December 21, 7:30 p.m., Lady Chapel.

(Preparation for Confession)

Confessions Wednesday, December 22, 12:00 Noon – 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 – 9:00 p.m., Church Nave

Christmas Eve Friday, December 24 Advent Masses: 6:30 a.m. & 8:00 a.m.Christmas Eve Masses: 5:30 p.m.

Family Mass, 11:15 p.m. Carol service followed by Mass at Midnight (solemn) (No confessions today)

Christmas Day Saturday, December 25 Masses at 7:30 a.m. (with carols), 9:30 a.m. (family), 11:30 a.m. (solemn), 1:30 p.m. (en español). (No confessions today and no Masses at 5:30 p.m. or 9:00 p.m.)

Solemnity of the Holy Family Sunday, December 26 Masses at 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.

Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God Saturday, January 1, 2011Parish Mass at 9:30 a.m.; Vigil Mass on Friday, December 31, 5:30 p.m.

Solemnity of the Epiphany Sunday, January 2, 2011 Masses at 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.

Vigil Mass on Saturday, January 1, 2011, 5:30 p.m.

St. Paul of the Shipwreck Church is located at the corner of Third Street and Jamestown Avenue. Our Parking Lot entrance is on Jennings Street. People of all faiths are invited to come and enjoy a wonderful evening of music and an early Midnight Mass at 8:00 p.m., followed by delicious Christmas refreshments! For further information call the St. Paul of the Shipwreck office (415) 468-3434, or visit us on the web at www.stpauloftheshipwreck.org.

Family Service Activity Sunday, January 2, 2011, 10:30 a.m., Parish Hall

Solemnity of the Baptism of The Lord Sunday, January 9, 2011 Masses at 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. & 9:00 p.m.

Vigil Mass on Saturday, January 8, 2011, 5:30 p.m. This marks the end of the Christmas Season

On Steiner at Bush St. parking available; (415) 567-7824; www.stdominics.org

12

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

Christmas Liturgies North Beach festival highlights parallels between homeless, Holy Family “The Virgin is then in this dark, dark church. We then join her by walking in this church,” and the event ends with song and short prayer by Sts. Peter and Paul Pastor Salesian Father John Itzaina, Bruno said. A soup and bread supper follows.

By Valerie Schmalz The idea of North Beach’s “Las Posadas de San Francisco” was hatched between a homeless man and Marc Bruno, a parishioner at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in San Francisco’s historic Italian neighborhood. It features a music student who once considered a vocation to religious life, numerous parishioners, homeless people and a mariachi band.

The Dec. 23 event is both a lively piece of Christmas street theater in one of the city’s most popular dining and nightclub spots and a witness to the situation of homeless, poor, and drug abusing people who live in its parks and street corners and shop doorways, Bruno said. The Las Posadas begins at 7 p.m. at the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi at 610 Vallejo St. off Columbus Avenue and continues to Sts. Peter and Paul Church. Bystanders are welcome to join and costumes will be available for children.

The traditional Las Posadas is a nine-day Mexican religious and social festival that re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s house-tohouse journey in search of room at the inn.

“Some people see it and they join. It is sort of stunning because it is at night with candles,” Bruno said. “Oh, there’s this beautiful woman and she’s riding on a donkey. Their curiosity raises the awareness of people about Christmas. That two people who are just like you and I, not famous and not rich, came out of nowhere and were given this incredible gift, Jesus.”

The procession stops on four street corners to pray for those less fortunate, Bruno said. Bruno and a then-homeless man, Vincent Depasqua, organized the procession in 2006 and Depasqua built many of the props, including the huge lanterns carried in the procession. Depasqua, a popular neighborhood fixture and a dog walker, died in March of an alcohol overdose.

“He and I got other homeless people together to walk with us,” Bruno said. The American Conservatory Theater donates “an endless amount of biblical-looking costumes.”

“Those of you who are Posadas experts, be forewarned this is not a traditional Mexican Posadas although the creators have done everything to embody the spirit of Christ to the world,” said Bruno, who now works for St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco, which is sponsoring the one evening event.

“We have a place and we think about those who don’t.”

Mary is played by a Berklee College of Music voice student, Michelle Lambert. Lambert, who became Catholic at 12, briefly considered a vocation to religious life at 19.

During a visit to the Salesian Sisters’ discernment weekend, their delight in her music helped Lambert realize where her life lay. This year, Lambert, 25, will return a day earlier from school in Boston on her way to join her family in Corvallis, and her mother and brother will come to the Las Posadas, she said. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish and a

HOLY NAME OF JESUS PARISH 2010 Christmas Schedule CHRISTMAS EVE MASSES Friday, December 24 5:00 PM (Family/Children’s Mass) 7:00 PM (Vietnamese Mass) 11:30 PM Christmas Carols Holy Name Choral Ministry 12:00 MIDNIGHT Concelebrated Mass Rev. Arnold E. Zamora, Main Celebrant Most Reverend Ignatius C. Wang, Presiding CHRISTMAS DAY MASSES Saturday, December 25 7:30 AM 9:30 AM 11:30 AM 5:00 PM (Vigil for Sunday) NEW YEAR’S DAY MASS Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God (Not a Holy Day of Obligation) Saturday, January 1 9:30 AM CONFESSIONS Saturday, December 18 4:00 – 5:00 PM

Those of you who are Posadas experts, be forewarned this is not a traditional Mexican Posadas although the creators have done everything to embody the spirit of Christ to the world.

– Marc Bruno Michelle Lambert portrays Mary in “Las Posadas de San Francisco,” a North Beach-themed variation on the traditional Mexican re-enactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for room at the inn.

musician at Mass when Bruno asked her to help. “I’m from the country so I thought riding on a donkey and playing music and playing Mary would be fun and also an honor,” Lambert said.

“I used to hear her playing the violin and I thought, wow, she’s good. Is that a recording?” Bruno said. “Then when I heard the duet, it was her and her brother. He is first chair in the Atlanta Symphony.”

“I’m going to be totally silent for the whole entire parade,” Lambert said. “At Sts. Peter and Paul I will walk up the aisle with the actor playing Joseph and will sing one song.”

The Las Posadas begins on the steps of the Shrine with a blessing by Capuchin Father Gregory Coiro, the rector, and then the group does a small rehearsal of a Posadas song and hears “why we are here,” Bruno said.

“We end up at the bottom of the steps of Sts. Peter and Paul,” Bruno said. Joseph asks if there is room, the doors of the church open and Joseph and Mary walk into the church.

Saint Veronica Church www.stveronicassf.com 434 A LIDA W AY S OUTH S AN F RANCISCO , CA 94080 (650) 588-1455

CHRISTMAS LITURGY SCHEDULE 2010 MONDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2010 Advent Penance Service (Deanery-level) 7:30PM at St. Dunstan Church, 1133 Broadway Ave., Millbrae, CA DECEMBER 15 TO 23, 2010 SIMBANG GABI ADVENT MASSES All Masses at 6:30PM except Dec 18th 5:00PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 CONFESSIONS 10AM to Noon & 3:00 – 5:00 PM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24 CHRISTMAS EVE 5:00PM (Children’s Mass) & 9:00PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 CHRISTMAS DAY 6:45, 8:00, 9:30, 11:00AM & 12:30PM

The idea is to bring the Christian Christmas message at several levels, said Bruno. The Las Posadas “tries to not retell the story,” said Bruno, “but remind people of the story that… is often lost in today’s world.”

St. John of God Church 1290 5th Avenue San Francisco

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Catholic San Francisco Staff

Christmas Schedule Christmas Eve Friday, December 24 5:30pm Children’s Mass with pageant by the children of the parish 11:30pm Carols followed

by Midnight Mass Christmas Day Saturday, December 25 Masses at 9:30am and 11:30am (No 4:15pm Vigil Mass on Saturday)

Christmas Blessings to All!

Mater Dolorosa 307 Willow Avenue, South San Francisco, CA 94080

Confessions

Deanery Advent Penance Service at St. Dunstan: Monday, December 13th, 7:30 p.m.

Individual Confessions at Mater Dolorosa: Saturday, December 18th, 4:15 - 4:45 p.m.

Los Posadas

Tuesday, December 14th, 5:30 p.m.

Simbang Gabi Masses

Wednesday, December 15th through Thursday December 23rd, at 7:00 p.m.

(Except December 18th, Mass at 5:00 p.m.

Christmas Masses

Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24th: 5:00 p.m. (Childrens Mass) Mini Christmas Concert at 9:00 p.m.

10:00 p.m. (Midnight Mass) Christmas Day, Saturday, December 25th 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12 noon (No 5:00 p.m. Mass)

Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph Sunday, December 26th: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., & 12 noon

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2010 Prayer Service – 10:15PM “New Years Eve Mass” – 11:00PM

New Years Eve, Friday, December 31st

SATURDAY, JANUARY 1, 2011 NEW YEAR’S DAY 9:00AM only

New Years Day, Saturday, January 1st

Pot Luck Gathering beginning at 8:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall Followed by Mass at 10:00 p.m.

(Not a Holy Day of Obligation) 8:00 a.m. (No 5:00 p.m. Mass)

December 17, 2010

Catholic San Francisco

13

Christmas Liturgies Notes on a Vatican Christmas

By Carol Glatz VATICAN CITY (CNS) – While snowfall is a rarity and Santa Claus is seldom seen, Christmas at the Vatican is truly unique.

Cranes erect an enormous evergreen alongside the granite obelisk in St. Peter’s Square and workers nested in cherry picker buckets adorn the tree with lights, ornaments and tinsel.

This year’s tree is decorated with 3,000 gold and silver balls, and 1,500 white and yellow LED lights, which have lower energy consumption and greater durability. The tree will be topped with a flashing star.

Construction of the larger-than-life nativity scene takes weeks and yards of thick burlap keep curious eyes from seeing the final product until its unveiling on Christmas Eve. But even further from the public eye are the holiday traditions of the papal household.

While Pope John Paul II had close to an open-house attitude, Pope Benedict XVI is much more discreet.

In addition to the public events, Pope Benedict celebrates Christmas privately with the members of his papal household.

“We celebrate Christmas together, listen to the holiday music, and exchange gifts,” he said in the recent book-length interview “Light of the World.”

The close-knit papal family includes Pope Benedict’s two secretaries and a small group of women from the Memores Domini lay community who care for the papal apartment. Unfortunately, this holiday season is marked with the loss of one of the pope’s close collaborators, Manuela Camagni, who died Nov. 24 after she was struck by a car.

A close friend of the pope still delivers traditional Bavarian food every Christmas season.

Thaddaeus Jospeh Kuehnel, a German banker in Munich, has spent the past 28 years hand delivering the pope’s favorite sweets and sausages from Bavaria.

Kuehnel told Catholic News Service he was driving to Rome the week before Christmas to deliver Bavarian sausages from the pope’s

favorite restaurant, Franziskaner; special mustard; and sweets from the Zentis food company, which specializes in marzipan and jams.

The papal goodie bag also includes cakes and cookies that cloistered nuns baked specifically for the pope, Kuehnel said in a Dec. 8 interview.

He will load his car with five Bavarian Christmas trees for the pope and will personally deliver the gifts and have dinner with the pope, he said.

On Christmas Day itself, no special guests are expected and the main meal, lunch, is made up of “Italian food,” said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman.

The pope’s brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, will arrive at the Vatican Dec. 28 to spend a few weeks with the pope.

Father Lombardi said Dec. 28 is the date then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger always would leave Rome for Germany to spend the holidays with his brother, so they have kept the same date of reunion.

All of the trees adorning the various Vatican offices and hallways, including the pope’s, are decorated by the technical services department of the Vatican City governor’s office, said Pier Carlo Cuscianna, department director.

The department also provides the figurines and creche supplies for one of the papal household’s Nativity scenes, but the pope and his personal assistants “put it together as a family,” Cuscianna told CNS. Father Lombardi said the pope has three different Nativity scenes in the papal apartment: a large one in the hallway set up by the Vatican workmen; one under the Christmas tree in the living room, where the pope puts the baby Jesus just before celebrating Midnight Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica; and one in the dining room, which has belonged to the pope for the past 45 years.

The large Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square is unveiled Dec. 24, and while the pope can see it from his apartment window, he doesn’t visit it until after his New Year’s Eve thanksgiving prayer service.

St. Augustine Church 3700 Callan Blvd.

S. San Francisco, CA 94080

CHRISTMAS 2010

Novena of masses (Simbang Gabi) December 15-23 – 7:30 P.M.

Christmas Vigil: Friday, December 24 4:30 P.M. Vigil Mass 7:30 P.M. Children’s Caroling 8:00 P.M. Children’s Mass 11:00 P.M. Caroling 12:00 A.M. Midnight Mass (Church & Hall)

Christmas Day: December 25

(CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING)

A 3,000-ornament tree, papal stocking stuffers, creche-builders’ pride

The Vatican’s large Nativity scene, pictured here in St. Peter’s Square in 2009, is kept under wraps until Christmas Eve.

The core figures in the scene – the Holy Family and the Magi – come from St. Vincent Pallotti, who had them on public display in a Rome parish starting in 1842.

Another Nativity scene is on display inside St. Peter’s Basilica. That creche is constructed by the basilica’s workmen, known as “sanpietrini,” who compete with the workers in the square in trying to build the more spectacular representation of Jesus’ birth, one of the “sanpietrini” told Vatican Radio.

Carlo Stella, one of the workmen in the basilica, said they try to introduce new elements into the scene each year, and the 2010 addition is a mechanical kneeling shepherd who lifts his hat before the Christ child.

The wooden statues were carved by a German sculptor, but the Vatican workmen fire and paint the clay chicken, ducks and sheep

figurines themselves, Vatican Radio reported.

About a dozen carpenters, bricklayers, plumbers and electricians work two to three weeks straight to get it ready in time for Christmas Eve when Pope Benedict will personally place the baby Jesus in the manger at the end of Mass Dec. 24.

Placed near the Pius X chapel off the basilica’s left aisle, the interior creche is designed in a 1500s Neapolitan milieu, rustically portraying peasants at work and in adoration.

Almost every Vatican office has its own Nativity scene, some made from unusual materials. The Swiss Guards, for example, use eight German beer crates for the scene’s base and an empty munitions box for the grotto to symbolize that the only weapon a Christian needs is Christ.

STAR OF THE SEA CHURCH

4420 Geary Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94118 • (415) 751-0450

Welcomes you to our Christmas and New Year's Liturgies Individual Confessions Saturday, December 18th 3:15–4:15 pm

Masses on Christmas Day Saturday, December 25 10 am, 11:30 am (Chinese), & 12:30 pm.

Christmas Eve Liturgies Friday, December 24 Masses 7:30 am, 4:30 pm Childrens Mass 9:30 pm - Christmas Carols by the "Stella Maris Choral Group" 10:00 pm Concelebrated Mass

No 4:40 pm Mass on Christmas Day New Year's Day 2011 January 1, 2008 Feast of Mary, Mother of God 10 am Concelebrated Mass – Only Mass New Year’s Day

Note: There is no Midnight Mass The parish staff joins me in wishing all of you a very Blessed and Merry Christmas and our promise of prayers for all of you in the New Year. – Fr. Brian Costello

7:45 A.M., 8:15 A.M., 9:30 A.M., 11:00 A.M., 12:30 P.M. There is no 4:30pm Mass on Christmas Day.

New Year’s Day 2011

Schedule of Masses: 8:40 A.M. & 4:30 P.M.

Please Celebrate Christmas With Us! ¡Ven y celebra Navidad con nosotros!

December 24th – 6 p.m.

8 p.m. and 11 p.m.

December 25th – 9 a.m.

Misa en Español, All Hallows Chapel With Gospel Choir Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Innes & Hawes Streets With Samoan Choir All Hallows Chapel – Newhall & Palou All Hallows Chapel

(Corner of 3rd St. & Jamestown)

Catholic Church

Dec.21, 21, 22, 22, 23 – Simbang Gabi/Las Posadas Dec. – Simbang Gabi/Las Posadas – – – Christmas Gospel Choir Musical– – Dec. – Christmas EveEve Gospel Choir Musical Dec.24 24 – Christmas Eve Mass – Christmas Eve Mass – – Dec.25 25 – Christmas Mass (bilingual) Dec. – Christmas Mass (bilingual) –– Dec.26 26 – Holy Family Mass/Kwanzaa Dec. – Holy Family Mass/Kwanzaa – – th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King – 26Annual Jan. 16 – 26th Dr. Martin Luther King Solidarity Mass Solidarity Mass ––

7:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 8:00pm 9:00am 9:00am 10:30am 10:30am 10:30am

10:30am

14

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

Christmas Liturgies Tradition of archbishop celebrating midnight Mass continues at cathedral

By Valerie Schmalz Consider celebrating Christmas midnight Mass at San Francisco’s Catholic cathedral with Archbishop George Niederauer.

As St. Mary’s Cathedral closes in on its 40th anniversary on May 5, 2011, some traditions continue their staying power. One is the archbishop celebrating midnight Mass – and it really is at midnight – at the cathedral on Geary Boulevard and Gough Street.

The music is something extraordinary at both the 8 p.m. Mass with the children’s choirs from the cathedral and from nearby St. Brigid School and at midnight Mass with the teen and the adult choir.

The choirs are accompanied by music from the cathedral’s 4,842-pipe Ruffati organ, made specially for the cathedral and installed in 1970, said Msgr.

John Talesfore, rector of the cathedral. Both Masses include a half hour concert beforehand.

“People hear children’s choir and they think ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.’ The children are singing polyphony, Gregorian chant and four-part traditional choral music,” Msgr. Talesfore said.

He said cathedral music director Christoph Tietze is “extremely gifted in working with young voices.”

Tietze also accompanies the singers on the organ, and they will sing a responsorial psalm he composed for the Christmas Masses, Tietze said. “O Come All Ye Faithful” will include a second verse in Latin, and “there are a couple of carols that the children know in other languages,” Tietze said, including “Silent Night” which was written originally

in German. The midnight Mass will include a French carol, and a Jamaican carol sung by the teens, he said.

The cathedral Christmas Eve Masses are also an opportunity to feel the international Christmas spirit as the church fills with 1,500 to 2,000 people visiting San Francisco from all over as well as with Catholics from throughout the Bay Area who want to share in the long-standing traditions at the cathedral, Tietze said.

St. Bartholomew

St. Anne of the Sunset Church

Parish Community

Corner of Alameda & Crystal Springs Rd. San Mateo, CA 94402 (650) 347-0701 stbarts@barts.org

The nativity scene at St. Mary’s Cathedral

850 Judah St. San Francisco (415) 665-1600

2010 CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE Simbang Gabi, December 15th - 23rd 7:00 pm Novena Masses in preparation for Christmas.

CHRISTMAS LITURGIES

Sacrament of Reconciliation, December 20th at 7 pm

Christmas Eve, December 24th Children’s Mass 4:00 & 6:00 pm Caroling at 11:15 pm followed by Midnight Mass 12:00 am

Christmas Eve, December 24th 4:30 pm A Children’s Concert 5:00 pm Family Mass 11:30 pm A Christmas Concert

Christmas, December 25th

Christmas Day December 25th 8:00, 9:30 & 11:15 am no evening mass.

12:00 mn Traditional Midnight Mass 7:30, 9:30, 10:30 am Masses 12:00 nn Cantonese Mass

Sunday, December 26th masses resume 8:00, 9:30, 11:15 am & 5:30 pm

New Year’s Day, January 1st

A Parish Saint Agnes Saint Agnes Church Church AWelcoming Welcoming Parish Saint Agnes Saint Agnes Church Church A Welcoming Parish A Welcoming Parish

A Parish A Welcoming Welcoming Parish Sacrament of Reconciliation

Thursday, December 16 9am to 11am & 5pm to 7pm If you have been thinking about going to Confession, this may be the day for you. All are welcome.

Christmas Eve Friday December 24 Liturgies of the Nativity of the Lord 5:00 pm Children’s Liturgy with Children’s Choir 10:00 pm Christmas Vigil with Choir, Woodwinds, Strings and Brass

Christmas Day Saturday, December 25 Liturgy of the Nativity of the Lord 10:30 am with Choir, Woodwinds, Strings and Brass There is no 8:30 am, 4:00 pm or 6:00 pm Liturgy

New Year’s Day Saturday, January 1, 2011 Regular liturgy at 4:00 pm

1025 Masonic Avenue, San Francisco (415) 487- 8560 www.saintagnessf.com Parking is available in our Oak Street Lots.

Inclusive + Diverse + Jesuit

St. Bruno’s Church (650) 588-2121 555 W. San Bruno Avenue, San Bruno, CA 94066

2010 CHRISTMAS WEEK SCHEDULE December 22 & 23, Wednesday & Thursday: 5 AM

Misa de Gallo

December 24, Friday: 5 7 9 10

AM PM PM PM NB

Misa de Gallo Vigil Mass (Spanish) Christmas Carols Midnight Mass (Multi-lingual) Confessions: 5 PM–6PM

December 25, Saturday, Christmas Day: 8 AM 10 AM 12 NN

English Mass Spanish Mass English Mass

December 26, Sunday, Feast of the Holy Family: Blessing of Families at all Masses

December 31, Friday: 7 PM Vigil Mass • 12 Midnight Midnight Mass

9:00 am Mass WWW . STANNE - SF . ORG

Saint SaintAgnes AgnesChurch Church

A three-quarter-scale wood-carved Italian nativity set greets Mass goers shortly after they enter the great space, Msgr. Talesfore said, and it is a treasure all its own with a San Francisco history attached. A gift of the O’Hara family, it sat on the lawn of McAvoy and O’Hara mortuary for decades before the family had it refurbished and donated it, Msgr. Talesfore said.

The cathedral also has an 11 a.m. English Mass and a 1 p.m. Spanish-language Mass on Christmas Day. The archbishop and Auxiliary Bishop William Justice also spend part of the Christmas feast days with incarcerated prisoners, said Annabelle Groh, manager of the Office of the Vicar for Clergy for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Bishop Justice usually spends Christmas Day at the San Mateo County Jail while Archbishop Niederauer says Mass at San Quentin State Prison earlier on Christmas Eve. Both are continuing a practice begun earlier by Archbishop John Quinn, continued by now-Cardinal William Levada and Auxiliary Bishop John Wester, now bishop of Salt Lake City, said Msgr. Talesfore, who said he believes it was inspired by Pope John XXIII’s visit to a Roman jail on the day after Christmas 1958.

“These men are not with their families,” Groh said of the prisoners visited by the bishops. “It seems to mean as much to the bishops as to the men.”

“There are very few things in the Gospel where Jesus directly indicates what we should do and one is caring for the imprisoned,” said Bishop Justice.

Our Lady of Mercy Parish

5 Elmwood Drive, Daly City Between South Mayfair ad South Avenues with plenty of free parking!

✚✚✚ Tuesday, December 14: 7:30 p.m. Parish Penance Service ✰ Wed., Dec. 15 to Thur., Dec. 23: 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. ~ Nightly Confession 7:30 p.m. Simbang Gabi Masses (except for Saturday at 5:30), followed by a Reception downstairs in our Church Hall. ✰ Fri., Dec. 24: 4:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Mass with Children’s Christmas Pageant and Choir.

5:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Mass 11:30 p.m. Christmas Caroling with Parish Choir 12:00 a.m. Midnight Mass with our Choir ✰ Sat., Dec. 25: Christmas Day Masses at 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. with our Children’s Choir, 12:00 p.m. with our Choir.

No 4:00 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. Masses.

Sunday, Dec. 26 Feast of the Holy Family 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12 noon.

January 1, Saturday, New Year’s Eve: 8 AM Morning Mass 6 PM Evening Mass MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

ST. MONICA PARISH Geary Boulevard at 23rd Ave, San Francisco (415) 751-5275

CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2010 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18

Confessions: 4:00 – 4:45 p.m. ✩ Mass: 5:00 pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19 Masses: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (Cantonese) 10:30 a.m.

CHRISTMAS EVE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24 5:00 p.m. Family Christmas Eve Mass with children’s choir and Nativity Play 11:30 p.m. Joyful music of the season with Saint Monica’s choir 12:00 a.m. Solemn Midnight Mass Mozart’s Mass in F Major

CHRISTMAS DAY SATURDAY, DECEMBER 25 Masses: 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. with choir No Cantonese Mass ✩ No Evening Mass

NEW YEAR’S DAY SATURDAY, JANUARY 1, 2011 Masses: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

FEAST

OF THE EPIPHANY SUNDAY, JANUARY 2, 2011

Masses: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (Cantonese) 10:30 a.m. Mass with Choir Evening Prayer and Benediction at 4:00 p.m.

December 17, 2010

Catholic San Francisco

15

Christmas Liturgies Guest Commentary

By Brother John Samaha Our feast of Christmas came from a pagan observance which was Christianized. It is a pagan festival revisited. The first mention of the celebration of the Lord’s nativity in a liturgical calendar appears in the fourth century. This was the baptism of the pagan festival of the invincible sun (sol invictus), an observance introduced in 274 by the Emperor Aurelius (270-275), and celebrated in Rome on Dec. 25, the winter solstice.

The “Sun of Justice” (Mal 3:20) came as “the light of the world” (Jn 8:12) to vanquish darkness and to triumph over sin and death.

As the Christianization of the winter solstice, observed in Egypt and in Arabia on Jan. 6, developed into the feast of the Epiphany, it became a major feast of the East. To counteract certain pagan myths, Epiphany, which means “showing forth” or “manifestation,” placed emphasis on the baptism of Jesus and his mission, and on the revelation of his glory at Cana? Gradually the feast of Epiphany spread to the entire West in the fourth century, and the East adopted the feast of Christmas about the same time.

In the fourth century at Rome the celebration of Christmas was a rather ordinary Mass celebrated by the pope. The Mass was similar to our present Mass at Dawn, and proclaimed the prologue of John’s Gospel.

To refute and oppose the Arian heresy rampant at that time, the Mass affirmed and celebrated the Word made flesh. This Christmas Mass was clearly Christological

St. Francis of Assisi Church 1425 Bay Road, East Palo Alto

and dogmatic in character, and in 360 mentioned the adoration of the Magi and the massacre of the innocent children of Bethlehem.

At Bethlehem a night Mass was celebrated for Epiphany in the grotto of the Lord’s birth. Beginning in the fifth century a night Mass was celebrated in Rome also, but it was the Mass of Christmas and not that of Epiphany. The pope celebrated the night Mass at the Church of St. Mary Major, built after the Council of Ephesus. Wood from a creche was displayed in one of the basilica’s chapels, and the Mass celebrated there became known as the Mass ad praesepe, that is, near the crèche.

Since the account of Jesus’ birth at Bethlehem was read from the Gospel of Luke, the theme of this celebration was historical.

The Greek (Byzantine) colony in Rome celebrated Dec. 25 too. They assembled at the Church of St. Anastasia (Holy Resurrection). To respect the Byzantines the pope celebrated Mass with them in the morning before going to St. Peter’s Basilica. In that Mass the Gospel reading was the announcement of the good news to the shepherds found in Luke’s Gospel.

This is how the three Masses of Christmas originated. The pope and the faithful celebrated Mass at night at St. Mary Major, at dawn at St. Anastasia, and during the day at St. Peter.

Marianist Brother John Samaha resides at the Marianist Care Center in Cupertino and has been a religious for more than 60 years.

Saints Peter and Paul Church

650/322-2152

Mass Schedule For Christmas and New Year Confessions Friday, December 24, 2010 10:30 am to 12:00 pm and 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm

Christmas Masses Friday, December 24, 2010 6:00 pm Bi-lingual Children’s Mass Midnight Bi-lingual Mass

Saturday, December 25, 2010 7:30 am English 9:30 am Spanish 11:30 am English 1:30 pm Spanish

New Year Masses Saturda, January 1, 2011 7:30 am English 9:30 am Spanish 11:30 am English 1:30 pm Spanish

December 20 7PM December 23 7PM

Advent Penance Service “Las Posadas” Procession

Christmas Eve 4:00 to 5:00 PM 5:00 PM 11:15 PM

Confessions Mass (English) Christmas Carols

Christmas Day Masses 12:00 AM 7:30 AM 8:45 AM 10:15 AM 11:45 AM 1:00 PM

In In In In In In

English English English Cantonese/English Italian English

666 Filbert St. at Washington Square 421-0809

(PHOTO COURTESY LIRETTEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM, 2010)

The three Masses of Christmas

Auxiliary Bishop Robert McElroy offering the blessing during the prayer of dedication and anointing of the new St. Catherine Benincasa Chapel at Dominican University of California in San Rafael Dec. 7. The ceremony attracted a capacity crowd of around 200.

Our Lady of Angels Catholic Church 1721 Hillside Drive, Burlingame Capuchin Franciscans 650-347-7768

2010 Christmas Schedule Confessions Thursday, December 23, 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Friday, December 24, 10:00a.m.-12 Noon Christmas Eve 4:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m. (Children’s Mass) and 10 p.m.

(No Midnight Mass) Christmas Day 8:00, 10:00 and 12 noon New Year’s Day Masses 8:00 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

New Year’s Day is not a Holy Day of Obligation The Capuchin Franciscans & Parish Staff wish our Parishioners and Friends Peace, Love and Hope for Christmas and the New Year

St. Thomas More Church 1300 Junipero Serra Blvd.

Saint Emydius Church 286 Ashton Avenue San Francisco, CA 94112 (415) 587-7066 Fax (415) 587-6690

Advent / Christmas / Epiphany Seasons Parish Celebrations 2010 – 2011 Sunday, December 19 Fourth Sunday of Advent – 8:30 am, 10:30 am Friday, December 24 Christmas Vigil Mass – 8:00 pm Saturday, December 25 Christmas Midnight Mass – 12:00 midnight Christmas Morning Mass – 10:00 am No 4:00 pm Vigil Mass for Sunday Sunday, December 26 Feast of the Holy Family – 8:30 am, 10:30 am Saturday, January 1, 2011 Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God & Octave of Christmas – 10:00 am 4:00 pm Vigil Mass for Sunday Sunday, January 2, 2011 Solemnity of the Epiphany – 8:30 am, 10:30 am

St. Philip the Apostle Church 725 Diamond Street @ 24th Street 415-282-0141

CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2010 Christmas December 2424 ChristmasEve, Eve,Friday, Thursday, December Vigil of Christmas Children’s / Family Mass: 5:00 p.m.

Christmas Carols: 9:30 p.m.

Evening Mass: 10:00 p.m.

Christmas December ChristmasDay, Day,Saturday, Friday, December 25 25 Mass of the Lord’s Nativity Mass: 9:30 a.m.

January 26, 1, Friday December Sunday Mary, Mother of God, Mass: 9:30 9:00 a.m. a.m.

Mass: January 2, 3, Sunday January Sunday Epiphany of the Lord Saturday Vigil 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, 8:00 and 10:30 a.m.

Traditional Christmas Music at all Masses Join us, for the Nativity Celebration of our Lord…

Come Home for Christmas, in the heart of Noe Valley!

Saturday, January 8, 2011 Anointing of the Sick Mass – 10:00 am

Catholic San Francisco wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The next issue of Catholic San Francisco will be January 14, 2011.

at Brotherhood & Thomas More Ways

San Francisco (415) 452-9634

Christmas Schedule 2010 December 22, 6:30 PM (& during the Novena): Confessions • December 15-23, 7:00 PM: International Christmas Novena at 7:00 PM • December 17, 8:00 PM (Friday): Third Friday: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament after the Novena • December 19, 1:00 PM (Sunday): Cable Car Caroling (Distribution of Holy Communion to the homebound & singing X’mas carols) December 24: 8:30 AM: Usual Friday Mass 6:00 PM: Mass with Christmas Pageant 9:00 PM: Arabic Mass, Santa awaits in Carroll Hall after Mass 12:00 AM: Midnight Mass, preceded

by Christmas Carols December 25: 10:00 AM: Mass in English No AACC 11:45 Mass 4:00 PM: Brazilian Mass 8:00 PM: Mass in English December 26 (Holy Family Sunday): Consecration to Jesus, Mary & Joseph of each family of the parish Usual Sunday Schedule: 8:00 AM Brazilian; 10:00 AM: English; 12:00 Noon: Arabic; 8:00 PM: English December 31 (Friday), 8:00 PM: New Year’s Eve Party in Carroll Hall.

Tickets: $10, children under 12, free

16

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

Archbishop’s Journal

Christmas 2010: Let peace, light and joy fill all hearts A Christmas message for the faithful of the Archdiocese of San Francisco from Archbishop George Niederauer: Over 2,000 years ago Jesus Christ the Savior was born, yet so much seems unchanged. Powerful rulers like Caesar Augustus can still make families homeless, ordering them to go where they command; petty tyrants like King Herod can still make people refugees, running for their lives into exile. The borders and place names changed, but not the conditions.

Still, we Christians believe everything has changed. In the light of the Good News the angels announced to the shepherds, we and our world have been transformed: “This day in David’s city a savior has been born to you, the Messiah and Lord. Let this be a sign to you: in a manger you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes.”

Again this winter we need to hear and respond to this news. The Good News of Dec. 25 enables us to face the bad news in the world and even in our own lives. The Prince of Peace wants to be new-born in our hearts and lives. The Savior born in Bethlehem has brought us from darkness to light, from sin to grace, from death to life in his Spirit. What his life left unchanged is precisely what he wants to change through us. Now Jesus wants to work within us for peace and justice in our families, our neighborhoods, our country and our world. When we meet him disguised and needy, we must not make the innkeeper’s mistake.

This Christmas let us pray to be centered less on ourselves and more on Christ, so that we may recognize and serve him. Let us pray most particularly for peace and justice in the land of his birth.

May the peace, light and joy of the newborn Savior bless you in this Christmas season and throughout the new year.

Catholic san Francisco Northern California’s Weekly Catholic Newspaper

Article revealed pope’s pastoral side Thank you for John Thavis’ recent article, “Pope’s remarks in book open new chapter in condom debate,” in the Dec. 3 edition. As I woke to the news a few days back – “Pope OKs use of condoms by male prostitutes” – in the national and local media, I figured there had to be more to the story. The article articulated a very pastoral side to the pope. We may strive to the ideal, but short of the ideal, how do we act in a responsible way? I liken his words to the parent who tells his teenage son or daughter, “I do not want you to drink,” and then says in the embrace just before the child heads out the door, “And if you do drink, call me, I will pick you up. I want you home alive.”

We all need to make it home alive so that we can strive for the ideal, the model provided

by Christ.

Joe Murphy South San Francisco

“The Greatest Gift at Christmas”

L E T T E R S

With all the giving at Christmas and all the gifts we share. We learn from Christ its true meaning the beginning to every year.

The gift of His birth was the essence of deep love for all to see. He came here to be a human through the likeness of you and me.

No gifts of gold did he offer, or items with precious worth.

Only himself did he give us, in the delight of his glorious birth.

The angels on high did the singing to welcome Him into our hearts. And the Shepherds bowed before Him to humbly do their part.

He offered himself to the fullest with the greatest love and good cheer. So in this wonderful season let us give this Gift so dear.

As Joseph and Mary adore Him, their new-born Son, the King. They offer this Blessing forever as we hear the Church bells ring.

Merry Christmas and Happy Epiphany!

Marguerite A. Muller San Rafael

Guest Commentary

A small step toward a nuclear-free world

By Sister Dolores Barling, SNJM I write in the Advent spirit of “beating swords into plowshares,” of seeking peace on earth.

My abhorrence of nuclear war, of destroying our planet, has built up over the years. Did it begin with footage of Robert Oppenheimer after the Los Alamos testing? (“Now I have become death, the destroyer of worlds.”) Was it from seeing the movie “Silkwood ?” Watching the nuclear firestorm video put out by Physicians for Social Responsibility? Reading accounts of cancer and infant deformities following Chernobyl?

It was all of the above, and more.

This December, we have before us in the U.S Senate lame duck congressional session the opportunity to ratify the U.SRussia START Treaty to eliminate strategic nuclear warheads.

At the beginning of his administration President Obama, long an anti-nuclear activist, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, wanted to restart our relationship with Russia and initiated conversations and negotiations with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev resulting in a treaty to “lower the number of deployed strategic nuclear weapons on each side to 1,550 and the number of delivery vehicles to 800.” Verification, based on the START I agreement, which expired in December 2009, is

assured. The treaty is the beginning of scaling down nuclear weapons in these two countries and stimulating a future similar reduction in nine other declared nuclear states.

While states relinquish their arsenals, governments simultaneously need to prevent non-governmental, terrorist acquisition of nuclear weapons. Ridding the world of nuclear weapons is a long process. The new START Agreement is just one step along the way to a nuclear-free world.

So, what’s the problem now? Republican opposition is led

by Sen. Jon Kyl of Arizona, the minority whip who figures that if he can stall off ratification during the lame duck session, the ratification will surely die when the new Senate convenes in January. Opposition to ratification exists in spite of the fact that the Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved the agreement 14-4 in September. Moreover, Republican giants from previous administrations – secretaries of state Henry Kissinger and George Shultz, Secretary of Defense Bill Perry and Sen. Sam Nunn –all stand in support of a world free of nuclear weapons.

As Catholics we need to heed Church teaching on the evil of nuclear warfare. The Second Vatican Council’s “Constitution of the Church in the Modern World,” promulgated by Pope Paul VI 45 years ago this month, stated:

“Any act of war aimed indiscriminately at the destruction of entire cities or extensive areas along with their population is a crime against God and man himself. It merits unequivocal and unhesitating condemnation.” This message was expanded and reinforced in 1983 by the National Conference of Catholic Bishops in “The Challenge of Peace: God’s Promise and Our Response,” which states: “Not only should steps be taken to end development and deployment, but the numbers of existing weapons must be reduced in a manner which lessens the danger of war.”

What to do? First, let us pray for peace during this season of Advent.

Learn more by checking out such websites as nucleartippingpoint.org (free DVD available). Write Sen. Kyl. Although we are not Sen. Kyl’s Arizona constituents, he needs to listen to us, because this is a matter of national importance.

Spread the word. In politics, numbers count.

Peace be with you and with our world.

Holy Names Sister Dolores Barling, SNJM, lives in Daly City, is a member of the archdiocesan Council of Women Religious and does ministry in spirituality, justice and liturgical music.

On recovering our Catholic identity Pope Benedict XVI’s apostolic journey to the United Kingdom last September made a lasting impression on the faithful. Bishop Kieran Conry of the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton, England, cites one example in this excerpt from his pastoral letter on the first Sunday and Advent. ... This year will always be remembered as the year Pope Benedict came to England. It will also be remembered as the time he gave us new courage and confidence and asked us to be bolder in just saying that we are followers of Christ, and offering evidence in public. …

Next week, I am going to Leeds for a meeting of the Bishops’ Conference. I hope that we will discuss the possibility of restoring the old Friday Fast Day. This was one of the most obvious signs of Catholic identity, apart from going to Mass. It determined the diet in places like prison and hospital, and was something that Catholics were instinctively conscious of: we knew that we couldn’t have meat like everybody else that day, and it was a source of a sort of pride – it marked us out as different.

Today we are perhaps less willing to be marked out, in

case we are marked out as not just different, but ‘odd.’ And that is what we had been told, and began to believe. But the pope’s visit has said to us that this is not ‘odd,’ but that it’s actually important. A few years ago I suggested that we might take up another of those old Catholic practices, grace before meals, if we had lost the habit of it. It’s not difficult, doesn’t take much time, but it’s a gentle reminder.

There are all sorts of small ways in which we quietly show to the world that we believe in Christ, and that we want to welcome Christ back into a world that has either largely forgotten him or never really heard of him. Pop into the church when you are passing, so that people can see it. Put a crucifix in the window. If you are at work or with friends and people ask you what you did at the weekend, mention the fact that you went to Church. But make sure it’s true.

And we can also show ourselves, by praying a little more often, and spending time reflecting on the Bible.

In the first reading today, Isaiah is confident that when the mountain of the Lord is lifted up, people will stream to it, and not only will they stream to it, but that they will turn

away from conflict. We have a very important message for our society, and this is the time that is given to us to make it known.

Bishop Conry (who, incidentally, has a cousin who is a priest in Monterey County) sent Catholic San Francisco this e-mail update Dec. 9: I have to say that I don’t think it was my idea that we should go back to ‘fish on Friday’ but I have often quoted the Jesuit Father John McDade of Heythrop College in London, who said that it was probably the single biggest mistake the Church made in the ’80s, to abolish the Friday abstinence.

In the Conference it was debated for quite a while, but it was felt that it was something that needed more preparation. It’s not enough now to say that eating fish is penitential (unless you consider the cost which can be penitential.) And since many, especially the young, are vegetarian by choice, what will giving up meat mean? It might mean that instead of just the former abstinence, we might suggest fasting. We will wait and see, but the consensus was that we need to look at it seriously and not superficially.

December 17, 2010

Catholic San Francisco

17 (CNS PHOTO/FINBARR O’REILLY, REUTERS)

Guest Commentary

Ministry of presence in Rwanda

By Christine Broesamle Often one’s presence is more important than a job title or a program. A wise American woman, who has worked in Rwanda with my organization for several years, gave some valuable advice.

She said that the “ministry of presence” was a vital part of our time here, and when it feels like we’re not doing anything, the relationships resulting from simply “being there” as life unfolds are ministry enough.

In a country which was, in effect, left completely alone by the world community to face a genocide, the “ministry of presence” makes sense to me. I have seen a sheer gratefulness from Rwandans that has been beyond my expectations. I think it’s because of the extreme emotional suffering and sense of abandonment so many people experienced when surrounded by open murder, then starvation, and years of clearing bodies afterwards. When everything in the world tells you that you are alone, a stranger sent by a sense of Christian conviction all the way from America is a sign that God is still alive.

I met Eugene only twice at the U.S. Embassy where he works. When I realized we had mutual friends from the Rwandese Christian university student movement, I invited him to a party for my organization. The morning of the party, he sent a text message with a heartrending request for prayer: his wife had delivered prematurely and was in the ICU with severe eclampsia. She was unconscious and I joined in the frantic prayers of his friends for her healing. I didn’t know if the baby had made it yet, and was afraid to ask.

A day later I called him to see how they were doing. Things were dicey and he wasn’t sure anyone was going to make it.

But the baby boy was alive and in an incubator, and his mother would ask for him whenever she was awake. Knowing that babies are traumatized by being separated from their mothers and being alone in a box, and that he was probably afraid to touch his fragile child, I urged the frightened first-time father to put his hand on the baby in the incubator as much as possible, and to talk to his son...tell him all your hopes and dreams, how much you love him, all the things you wanted to do with him, how much his mommy loves him. I also advised him to hold his baby on his chest and take naps together – better yet, take the baby to his mother and do the same thing.

The somewhat dazed dad promised to try, and we hung up – and I prayed even harder.

Early the next morning, I received another text message.

“Guess what? When I put my hand on the baby in the incubator and talk to him, his condition stabilizes and he sleeps! And he likes it when I hold him!”

I was so ecstatic I thought my chest would burst. In amazement and euphoria, I wrote in my journal, just to convince myself that it really happened: “Today, a tiny little premature baby in Rwanda has a better shot at life because of me.”

Mother and baby were home in a week. From death to delight – presence can make just enough difference.

As you run from pillar to post during these hectic weeks of pre-Christmas, consider the Advent of the Lord. Christmas is about the ultimate ministry of presence: Emmanuel, God with us, came into the world as a human being. Be ready for

Rosaries hang among the personal possessions of genocide victims at a memorial inside the church in Ntarama, Rwanda, last August. Some 5,000 people, mostly women and children, sought refuge near the church in April 1994, but were massacred

by Hutu extremists who used grenades, clubs and machetes to kill their victims.

those moments when your presence can make the difference for someone else – the elderly, someone who doesn’t have supportive family, a sick friend, singles who wish they were married, an exhausted new mom or dad, someone who tends to isolate, someone caring for aging parents. You can represent Emmanuel to everyone you meet.

Christine Broesamle is a parishioner at Church of the Nativity in Menlo Park and a missionary in reconciliation and trauma healing initiatives in post-genocide Rwanda, East Africa.

Contact her at christine.therese@yahoo.com.

Guest Commentary

A season of grace and gratitude

By Michèle Szekely How do I know that God loves me? Because, when I pay enough attention, I can see how much he cares for me, I can see his grace flowing in the world. It is quite a treat to be able to “see” it. It only happens on some occasions and it is a minor miracle when it does. I can’t seem to maintain this “open-to-grace-mode” as often as I should. But this is exactly why I need the liturgical life of the Church, to remind me at regular intervals of the whole world (the visible and the invisible one) and to remind me of my responsibilities in it.

It tells me again and again how God’s love is coming at us with every breath and with every sunrise and how it is a gift.

The proper response to a gift is to say thank you, to express gratitude, with joy and respect. It does not always come naturally (ask any parent!). But our hearts and souls can be exercised and trained just as well as our muscles need to. I know how much I appreciate being around patient and kind people and it makes me want to emulate them. To think that there is a lovely dance between grace and gratitude and that the

On Julian and the primacy of divine love In 1373, during a period of serious illness, the English mystic Julian of Norwich received 16 revelations on the love of God. Pope Benedict XVI, speaking about Julian during his Dec. 1 general audience in Vatican City, explained what happened next: “Inspired by divine love, Julian made a radical choice.” Like an ancient anchoress, he said, she chose to live in a cell located near the church of St. Julian in the city of Norwich.

Anchoresses, or ‘recluses,’ dedicated themselves to prayer, meditation and study within their cells, the pope said. They acquired a delicate human and religious sensibility, and men and women of all ages sought them out for counsel and comfort.

Julian’s book “Revelations of Divine Love” contains an optimistic message based on the certainty of God’s total love and protection, the pope said. To Julian, divine love and maternal love were much the same.

Her savior was filled with tenderness, solicitude and sweetness toward his earthly pilgrims.

Julian knew the central message of spiritual life: that God is love, the pope said.

“Only when we open ourselves totally to this love, only when we allow it to become the one guide to our existence, does everything become transfigured and do ON JULIAN, page 19

link between the two is within me is very encouraging to me.

It is easy to forget it when listening to the news filled with threats and dangers. It seems that new fears are popping up every day and the media are doing such a good job of keeping us informed. I’m informed on the latest Wikileak and the exact foreclosure statistic; I hear about every political accusation hurled from one party to the other. Bombarded with useless data, I’m expected to accept forced austerity (in my case, unemployment) and economic uncertainty. This is why I can’t always see the grace of God at work in the world, I keep being distracted and confused.

But the truth is that it is not just the media, there are enough forces within myself – such as my own arrogance or apathy – to obscure the delicate ballet of grace and gratitude. I try to resist the temptations of glorified anger and the general currents of whining. But only this liturgical season of the Church gives me the reboot I need: It helps me to focus on relationships, to pay attention to goodness, to practice the works of mercy. And there is much personal growth at stake here since I need to trust that there is also a point in the end where “all

is grace,” as the saints have already told us. Because there is something so poignant – and ever so graceful – when one can still hold on to gratitude even in the midst of suffering. It’s called dignity and courage, and it generates our admiration and transforms the world in the process. Yes, the creation is drenched in grace.

This is the goal of the season of Advent, to grow, to become richer in the only wealth that truly matters and to welcome God, the God of love and forgiveness and hope. God has come to us once and God is coming again.

And to think that I am offered a place at this banquet, at this extraordinary exchange.

Thanks be to God. Michèle Szekely is a member of Notre Dame des Victoires Parish in San Francisco. She has published two books of nature photography and writes a French-American Catholic blog, Le blog de la Bergerie, at leblogdelabergerie.com.

Guest Commentary

An angel not to be forgotten

By Lisa M. Petsche For over a decade now, there has been a special angel ornament on our family Christmas tree. Although it is part of a collector series, its value goes much deeper. You see, seven weeks prior to Christmas, we lost a baby prenatally, and the angel is a memento – a symbol of that child.

The loss occurred quite unexpectedly in early November. I was at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy, happy to be done with the nausea and initial fatigue. My husband and I were on the verge of sharing our exciting news about the addition to our family, having been superstitiously – but increasingly impatiently – waiting until the second trimester. Instead of good news, there was only sadness and disappointment to share.

We discovered that losing a baby through “miscarriage” (I strongly dislike that medical term) is complicated by many factors, including a lack of established rituals for mourning. Others may be unaware that a loss has even occurred. Those who are aware may not know how to respond. Ultimately the parents – and any children old enough to understand what’s happened – have to find their own, often private way of dealing with the grief.

For us, it was important to do something special to commemorate the existence and loss of our baby. With Christmas approaching, one of the things we did was find a special angel for our tree.

Bringing out the angel each year revives the memories and emotions of that time of expectancy and subsequent loss. Our one consolation at the time was the daughter we already had, whom we adored.

She seemed even more precious as a result of our first-hand reminder of how fragile and unpredictable life can be.

Christmas that year was a time of mixed emotions. But ultimately the holy season, with its message of peace, hope and new life, was a healing force.

The start of a new year symbolized a fresh beginning for our family. Once more we were able to plan for our future with anticipation, albeit cautiously at first.

Our household has since expanded to include two more beautiful children. And every year our Christmas angel inspires renewed appreciation for God’s gift of life and the powerful bonds of family.

Linda M. Petsche is a social worker and a freelance writer specializing in inter-generational issues.

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Catholic San Francisco

A READING FROM THE BOOK OF ISAIAH IS 7:10-14 The Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying: Ask for a sign from the Lord your God; let it be deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky! But Ahaz answered, “I will not ask!

I will not tempt the Lord!” Then Isaiah said: Listen, O house of David! Is it not enough for you to weary people, must you also weary my God? Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM PS 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6.

R. Let the Lord enter; he is king of glory.

The Lord’s are the earth and its fullness; the world and those who dwell in it. For he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.

R. Let the Lord enter; he is king of glory.

Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord?

Or who may stand in his holy place?

One whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean,

December 17, 2010

Fourth Sunday of Advent Isaiah 7:10-10; Psalm 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-24 who desires not what is vain.

R. Let the Lord enter; he is king of glory.

He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, a reward from God his savior.

Such is the race that seeks for him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob.

R. Let the Lord enter; he is king of glory.

A READING FROM THE BOOK OF ROMANS ROM 1:1-7 Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of

God, which he promised previously through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, the gospel about his Son, descended from David according to the flesh, but established as Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness through resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. Through him we have received the grace of apostleship, to bring about the obedience of faith, for the sake of his name, among all the Gentiles, among whom are you also, who are called to belong to Jesus Christ; to all the beloved of God in Rome, called to be holy. Grace to

T

he Gospel for the Fourth Sunday of Advent is the familiar passage from Matthew that begins with an allusion to people’s questions about the childhood of Jesus of Nazareth. Even 50 years after the death of Jesus, people still engaged in arguments and suspicions. If Joseph was not the biological father of Jesus, but Mary was his mother, how was this to be explained? Thus, Matthew begins his account, as if answering a disputed question, “This is how the birth of Jesus came about.”

In speaking about the infancy of Jesus, Matthew’s focus is Joseph, in contrast to Luke’s Annunciation scene and Visitation which highlight Mary. In Matthew, Mary is betrothed to Joseph. Joseph is the husband of Mary. The angel tells him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife. He is to name Mary’s son Jesus. But in all these descriptions of Joseph’s activity, he is not described as the father or begetter of Jesus. That is the emphasis: Joseph is not the biological father of Jesus.

A Mercy Scripture scholar and friend, Sister Elaine Wainwright of New Zealand, an expert on Matthew’s Gospel, has called attention to the fact that the child is not “of Joseph.”

This “provides for the reader an account of Mary’s conception of Jesus without reference to male begetting.” We might say that what breaks into the world with the coming of Jesus is a revolution in the way men are to imagine themselves in relation to women.

So, let us pursue this question. If Joseph is not the begetter of Jesus, what else is he as a man? What other aspects of Joseph’s manhood become highlighted when his traditional patriarchal role is re-defined? Set aside is the most obvious expression of manhood, his biological begetting of future generations. Mary is pregnant, but not with his child. What, then, becomes the relationship of Joseph to Mary?

How does he understand himself? Matthew offers several considerations.

Scripture reflection SISTER ELOISE ROSENBLATT

Joseph the man First, Joseph is caught in a double-bind.

Whether he is loyal to Mary, or whether he disavows her, he must fear the loss of his good name. Her being found with child, a child he did not beget, compromises him. But how shall he explain himself? Does he defend himself publicly? What are his suspicions about Mary? Are Mary’s explanations convincing?

Does he feel afraid of being shamed by other men if he stands by a woman they disapprove of? Is it possible he will lose some social or professional advantage if he chooses loyalty to a disapproved woman, instead of rejection of her as mandated by male neighbors? What is more compelling – his spousal feelings for Mary, or the primal claim of male-bondedness? It is not without effect that the angel says, “Do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.”

Second, Joseph defines himself not by ego-interests, but selflessly by his relation to Mary. “Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.”

A righteous man does not need to prove his righteousness by displaying the contrast

between his innocence and the woman’s guilt. Joseph does not take the position of a stern judge who will call down the wrath of an outraged public upon a woman who got herself pregnant outside marriage.

What is remarkable is Joseph’s deviance from the social norm of asserting power over a woman as his entitlement for having been born a man. In Middle Eastern societies of today, which are still afflicted by primitive notions of male privilege, built upon the foundation of female shamefulness and subordination, Mary would be a likely target for an honor killing. But Joseph, a righteous man, is unwilling to expose her to shame. Joseph will not extricate himself from his uncertainties by either using a religious court to humiliate her, or by accusing her of promiscuity and putting her life at risk.

Third, Joseph’s consciousness is psychologically porous to the divine. His mind and heart are available to God’s reassuring communication. It is telling that God’s intimacy with Joseph comes in the middle of the night—the darkness of his uncertainty about the source of Mary’s pregnancy, his fear and

you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

A READING FROM THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW MT 1:18-24 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.

Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. love for Mary, the teetering of his loyalty amidst the social scandal, and the predictability of his own life seemingly upended.

The angel reminds him of his own origins, a lineage which he himself may not be able to fully grasp or explain in one single recitation by memory: “Joseph, son of David.” How can he explain himself to himself in a provable story, or recite how he came to be who he is? Does this difficulty help him intuit that the child in Mary’s womb also has a lineage beyond his power to intellectually grasp at this moment?

Joseph wakes up, his dilemma resolved.

He will not divorce her but marry her. Why? Not because he has a biological explanation of Mary’s pregnancy, but because he feels convinced it is God’s work, not something Mary did wrong. A divine power is present. He will find his own destiny as the namer of Jesus. He will do what a husband does – take his wife into his home as he planned. The child will be a savior of his people. Joseph feels the echoes of Isaiah, the promise of God to work through a constant stream of miracles – the mystery of a woman conceiving and giving birth to a child. In the ordinary is the extraordinary.

“The virgin shall conceive and bear a son.”

When Joseph awakes, his fear and uncertainty have lifted. The fear of public scandal and the drama of Mary’s pregnancy of uncertain origin have yielded to the everyday-ness of married life. He is the husband who takes his wife into his home. He awaits the birth of the child he will name, whose destiny will unfold in time. He lives in daytime the conviction he heard in the night: God is with us.

Eloise Rosenblatt, RSM, Ph.D., is a Sister of Mercy, a theologian, and an attorney in private practice in San Jose. Her e-mail is eloros@sbcglobal.net.

A mystic’s vision of Jesus’ birth Scripture scholars have been amazed at the accuracy of her knowledge concerning the geography, language and culMany, many readers have asked me to ture of the times. Moviemaker Mel Gibson repeat a Christmas column I wrote a few took some inspiration from her revelations years ago. They told me that they like to for his movie, “The Passion of the Christ.” include it in their Christmas cards. The artiIn her written account of the life of cle was actually written by Anne Catherine Jesus, she wrote the following passage in Emmerich, a mystic born of devout parents her chapter on the “Birth of the Child Jesus”: in Westphalia, Germany, in 1774.

“When Mary told (Joseph) that her time At age 28, she entered the Augustinian was drawing near and that he should now convent a few miles away from her home. betake himself to prayer, he left her and A few years later, in 1811, Napoleon turned toward his sleeping place to do her Bonaparte was on the rampage. He supbidding. Before entering his little recess, he pressed all religious communities, and all looked back once toward that part of the cave the nuns were forced to flee. where Mary knelt upon her couch in prayer, Emmerich was given shelter by a chariher back to him, her face toward the east. table family, and remained with them until “He saw the cave filled with the light her death in 1824. A few months after her that streamed from Mary, for she was Blessed Anne arrival, she received the stigmata, i.e., the entirely enveloped, as if by flames. It was Catherine Emmerich wounds of the passion of Christ appeared on as if he were, like Moses, looking into the her hands, feet and side. Soon she began receiving mystical burning bush. He sank prostrate to the ground in prayer, and revelations about the life of Jesus. looked not back again.

By Father John Catoir

“The glory around Mary became brighter and brighter; the lamps that Joseph had lit were no longer to be seen. Mary knelt, her flowing white robe spread out before her. At the 12th hour, her prayer became ecstatic; ... the light around her grew even more resplendent. ...

“Mary continued in prayer, her eyes bent low upon the ground. At that moment, she gave birth to the infant Jesus. I saw him like a tiny, shining child, lying on the rug at her knees, and brighter far than all the other brilliancy. ... Mary’s ecstasy lasted some moments longer. Then I saw her spread a cover over the child, but she did not yet take (him) up, nor even touch (him).

“After a long time, I saw the child stirring and heard (him) crying, and then only did Mary seem to recover full consciousness. She lifted the child ... and sat veiled. ... I saw angels around her in human form prostrate on their faces. ...

“It may, perhaps, have been an hour after the birth when Mary called St. Joseph, who still lay prostrate in prayer. ...

Mary again urged him to look upon the sacred gift from heaven, and then did Joseph take the child into his arms.”

Father John Catoir, head of St. Jude Media, writes a column for Catholic News Service.

obituary

Archbishop urges teens, young adults to attend Walk for Life

Dominican Sister Helen Bendik, former school principal A funeral Mass was celebrated Nov. 23 for Sister Helen Bendik, a Dominican Sister of San Rafael, at Saint Rafael Church in San Rafael. Sister Helen, a religious for 57 years, died Nov. 16.

Born in Youngstown, Ohio, Sister Helen grew up in San Francisco attending Sacred Heart Elementary School and Immaculate Conception Academy.

Her sister, Jeanne Marie, now deceased, was also a Dominican sister.

For 23 years Sister Helen taught and was principal at Catholic elementary schools in San Rafael, Napa, Stockton, Antioch and Oakland. Later she received training in spiritual direction and became director of her congregation’s Santa Sabina Retreat Center.

Sister Helen also served for 11 years on the campus ministry team at Seattle University.

The school remembered her in a letter including these words: “During her tenure here, she touched hundreds of students with her uncon-

ditional compassion, care, and presence. Her distinctive laugh could be heard throughout the former McGoldrick building long after her departure. She envisioned a future for Campus Ministry at the university that today is a reality: a chapel, ecumenical ministry, and social justice ministry.

Her love for all things Jesuit brought grace to her life and ministry. May those of us whom she touched always remember her simple words, ‘All is gift.’”

Sister Helen served as a pastoral associate at St. Cecilia Parish in San Francisco for eight years, coordinating senior activities and supporting the RENEW program.

Survivors include a brother, Tom Bendik, nieces and nephews, and her Dominican sisters.

Interment was at St. Dominic Cemetery in Benicia. Memorial contributions may be made to Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, Development Office, 1520 Grand Ave., San Rafael 94901.

On Julian . . .

Providence, even from evil God can draw a greater good,” he said. “As Julian of Norwich wrote: ‘I was taught by the grace of God that I should steadfastly keep me in the faith, and that at the same time I should ... earnestly believe that all manner of thing shall be well.’”

The lesson learned: God’s promises always exceed our expectations, the pope said.

“If we commend the purest and deepest desires of our heart to God and to His immense love,” he said, “we will never be disappointed, and all manner of thing shall be well.”

■ Continued from page 17 we find true peace and joy which we can pass on to others,” he said.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains words of Julian expounding on a mystery of the faith: the problem of evil. If God is supremely good and wise, why do the innocent suffer?

“Yet in the mysterious designs of

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Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

The thousands of teens and young adults who attend the Walk for Life West Coast will have their own party at the end of the 2 ½-mile trek along San Francisco’s waterfront.

This year, for the first time, the Walk for Life West Coast will feature an event tailored for high school and college students – a youth rally at Fort Mason Center, adjacent to Marina Green.

“The face of the pro-life movement seems to be getting younger every year,” wrote Archbishop George Niederauer in a Dec. 8 letter to high school administrators and parish and school religious education directors, urging them to facilitate teen attendance. “I have always been moved by the positive, nonconfrontational attitude of the walkers – men, women and children of various races and religious traditions who come to take part in this testimony to the value of every human life.”

The Seventh Annual Walk for Life West Coast is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 22, with a rally at 11 a.m. at Justin Herman Plaza, followed by a walk along the Embarcadero ending at Marina Green. About 40,000 people are expected to participate, according to Vicki Evans, Respect Life coordinator for the Archdiocese. The 3 p.m. Youth Rally at Fort Mason Center will feature speakers, music and vendors. The rally is funded by the Knights of Columbus and co-sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office of Public Policy and Social Concerns.

“The realization that so many young people are deeply and inherently pro-life led the Archdiocese of San Francisco to organize a rally that would bring together the young people of Walk for Life in an arena where they can participate in praise and worship, and more importantly networking with one another as the future pro-life leadership,” said Timmerie Millington, who is coordinat-

Timmerie Millington

ing the event. “This is a great opportunity for the youth of America to come together in support of life where youth can network and be equipped with new ideas to promote the pro-life message.”

“I encourage the support and participation of our schools in the Walk for Life and the Youth Rally to instill in our students a deep respect for human life,” Archbishop Niederauer wrote.

Scheduled to speak at the Walk for Life are former Planned Parenthood clinic manager Abby Johnson; Mary Poirer of Prayerbreaks, who will speak of her experience with abortion; Denise and Brian Walker, founders of Everlasting Ministries; and Kathleen Eaton, founder of Birth Choice Health Clinics.

The California bishops planning to attend the Walk itself will include all four San Francisco bishops, Archbishop Niederauer, Auxiliary Bishop William Justice, Auxiliary Bishop Robert McElroy and retired Auxiliary Bishop Ignatius Wang.

To learn more about the youth rally, go to youthrally.blogspot.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Walk-forLife-Youth-Rally/138717492821290?ref=ts.

Timmerie Millington can also be reached at walk4lifeyouthrally@gmail.com.

Please support Catholic San Francisco by sending the newspaper a generous donation

Students at , Dean of Academy, Anita Diaz Conception adares, Immaculate nts Elisa Ball Canaya. with students elle ra and Roch era Eliana Barr

‘Archbisho ishop hoop op’s’s Hour’ Hour’ On 1260 AM AM RRadio adio

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Parish view of Pastor, leader ~ Page M8 ~

From early years to priesthood ~ Page M12 ~

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‘Letters to Juliet’ film review ~ Page 16 ~

Heraldry points to Vatican II ~ Page M16 ~ VOLUME 12

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By Sarah Dela ney

The pill at 50. . . . . ........3 Vatican responds to suits . . . 4 OO IGH SCHOOL Seminarian answers HIG HIGH call .MER . . . 7 CY r a ncisc o cisco F n Fran San ‘Women in Medicine’ ......9 Mercy Sister to Sudan . . . . . 11 Commentary & Letters .12-13 More than a symbol . . . . . . 14 VOLUME 12

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says conflict is

“The victim have anything s are poor people who n responsibleto do with all this anddon’t not are ,” Archb s said.

He said armed ishop Onaiyekan Fulani herde a attack ed the rs D Nahaw Berom villages of Ratt had Dogo African count ann archbishop from ry said. the ho off furthea. Soldiers were attemptingand hold The viole aid. r religious differnce is not inspired News report violence there, he said. to es,, even thoug by wome wo n and s said many victims ethnic Berom ences were farmeers rs are Chris h the appea app red to havechildren and that peopl the ethnic tian Fulani herde been e erders Archbishop rs are Musliand es. Most of the house attacked with mache tm, some s were burne orunf som with victim of Abuja toldJohn Oloru nfemi d down, Vatican Radioemi Onaiyekan interview March ““The churc s inside, the reports said. in a telephone good relatio h continues to work towar “Internation 8.

Muslims,” thens between Christians ds Musl dia will say Christians and al media and archbishop other,” he said. Muslimss are killing that try to join togeth said, “and we because peopl “But thiss is not the each and ssolve concr er to quell the violen case, proble ce e don’t killl ete political for social, econo for religion, ms.” and ethnic mic, tribal reasons.”

The Nigerian bal and culturbut al and no not able to government is weak Governmen contain the are vying nizations have t and humaann rights vyi for domin groups who orgaestimated hat 500 people ishop Onaiy ance of the territory, as many as Archbis were killed that ekan said. Weap March strife in the ch 7 in ethnic easy to obtain and ons are the Villagers look city of Jos. state of Plateaau, u, near the naries ““ready to fight presence of merceThe at bodies of for a few dollar makes th Muslim northe area divides the mainl victims of attac the situat the Dogo Naha s” y ks Christian south rn Nigeria from wa village, “We ppray for ion volatile, he said. m the mostl peace, for good Nigeria Marc near the capit lying in a mass grave y lar attacks in and was the scene in govern h 8. Cultural, the people under ene of simi- and that th al city of Jos January. way to sur stand that the ment in central econ feeding the surviv bloody confl omic and tribal differ the citizens e is to recognize as brothe only ences are ict between of this countr and herders Nigerian farm y,” he said. rs all that has left ers Arch hund VATICAN economic and CITY (CNS) – Cultu ral, tribal ibal differences ing the

MARIN CATHOLIC

blood are feedL y confli onflic SCHOO ATORY HIGHfarme rs and herde ctt between Nigerian rs that has left A COLLEGE PREPAR of people dead, ers hundreds

Immaculate Conce

MEXICO Archdiocese CITY – The Mexico the nation’s responded to a new lawCity capita marriages with l that permits same- in accusing the a tersely worded editor sex ial, ing an agend local government of pursu a of radical instead of fixing social pressing proble changes as rampant ms infrastructu insecurity and a crumbsuch re. ling The March the archdiocesa 7 editorial, published in n publication, Fe, accused Desde la Mexico City Ebrard “of provo Mayo king constant r Marcelo sion throug social h depending on his political activism” diviand for “implementhe advice of foreign group s abortion, homoting the legal practi ce other things sexual unions and all of that the In his Sunda they request.”

Rivera Carre y homily, Cardinal Norbe ra told a gather rto Catholic family groups, “Let’s ing of lay couraged by not be disthe apparent contrary values triumph of evil, of of the family , of the individualistic vision port the true and a society that fails to needs supThe imple of households.” marriages in mentation of same -sex another point the Mexican capital marke d diocese and of conflict between the the archover the last local government, which three years, , also SAME-SEX has impleLAW, page 4 MALTA)

ents

St. Patrick San Francisco Churc in the day, the h, 756 Mission St. Auxil celebrate te Mass honor iary Bishop Willia mence at 11:30traditional St. Patric in San Francisco. Later m Justic ing St. Patric k’s Day parad a.m., beginning k Marc M h 13 at e will and proce e will comat Secon eding 9 a.m. at Festival takes to San Francisco Civic d Street and Missi on place at Civic Cente Center from r Plaza. An Irish 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

immigration reform

www.catholic-sf.

A replica of the Wor ld Yout Y The cross and icon aare h Day cross and icon is being carr in adva ied by youn carried by boat outs thee populatio nce of Pope B Benedict XVI’ ide g people to n is largely parishes thro Valletta, Malta. s April 17-1 Ca Catholic.

8 visit. With ughout Malt St. Paul was a long Chri a shipwrecked stian histo on the islan d and mini ry, stered ther e.

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INSIDE THIS WEEK’S EDITIO N

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S CH OO LS HO LI C H IG H C AT H KL ET OR MATI ON B OO I NF O St. Patrick’s Day ev

line for citizenship but because you just line you belong at the end of the line,” joined the Niederauer said.

Archbishop Speaking to reporters , the archbish op Congress needs to said act will follow Arizona’s and if it doesn’t more states care; I would like to example. “They did it for healthArchbishop Niederausee them do it for immigration,” er said.

The U.S. bishops measures that wouldhave long called for a series of to come “out of the allow undocumented people shadows,” create a system for foreign nationals work permit , and increase the of family and employm ent visas. While both number Barack Obama and former President GeorgePresident support the reform, it has stalled in CongressW. Bush IMMIGRATION REFORM . , page 10

COLLOPY)

Immaculate Heart Radio – 1260 AM in the Bay Area.

Repeat broadcasts air Friday evening at 9 p.m., Sunday at a.m m., and and Monday at 9 p.m. 111 a.m.,

But even Versaggi doesn’t know what’s come next. going to As with many disasters BP’s Deepwater Horizon both natural and man-made, has Catholics in Florida’soil spill in the Gulf of Mexico fishing industry praying scrambling to survive. and Looking at Louisiana – whose oyster beds closed west of the Mississip have been pi thanks to the spill, and whose fishing industry the hundreds of dead has been severely crippled – and Island, Ala., the spill fish washing ashore in Dauphin worries men and women on boats, in warehous who work way that no hurricane es, in restaurants and in retail in a has “The people are lookingfor years. at a business that them 25 years to build – losing it in one fell has taken Jones, executive director swoop,” Bob of the Southeastern Fisheries GULF OIL SPILL, page 6

Justice call for action on

“The Archbishop’s opp’ss Hour” Hoouur” with San Francisco Archbish Arcchbi op George George H. Niederauer airss shop each Friday morn-ing at 9 a.m. on

(PHOTO BY MICHAEL

of New director s St. Anthony’ ~ Page 7 ~

secular Books: Sacred, cles views on mira ~ Page 22 ~

fficia Offi 1 . . . . . . . 10-1 erss . . . . . . . etter Lett 16-17 reflection. .

Scripture & . . . 18 ..........

Obituaries . . . . 21 events . . . .

Datebook of 4 services . 23-2 Classified ads,

A worker unloads fish to be cleaned, cut and placed for sale at a market in Winter Park, Fla., May 18.

Damage from the recent gulf oil spill threatens habitats and fishing industries.

Newspaper

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‘Archbiish sho hop ho opp’s’s HHou ourr’’ On 126600 AM AM Rad Radiioo

HA LL STU ART OOL HIG H SCH

“The Archb opp’ss Hour Hour” with San Franciscoishop Arch chhbbiishop ishop H. Niederauer Archb op Georg Georgee each Friday airss morn orn-ing at 9 a.m. on Immaculate art Radio – 1260Heart M in the Bay AM a.

Repeat broadArea. casts s air Friday eveni at 9 p.m., Sund ngg ay at 111 a.m., Monday at a.m a.m m.,..,, and and 9 p.m.

OOL March 12, MERCY HIGH SCH 201 BURLINGAME

H. ARCHBISHOP GEORGE. . . . . . . . . 2 NIEDERAUER LETTER TO STEPS FOR APPLYING 2 CHOOLS . . . .

CATHOLIC HIGH S ES . . . . 2-3 GRADUATION OUTCOM AR. . . 10-11 OPEN HOUSE CALEND MAUREEN SUPERINTENDENT ATIUS HUNTINGTON LETTER . . . . . . 20 SAINT IGN P

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INSIDE

reds of peop le dead, i Onaiyeka n of Abuja said.

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Special Spring Sports Section ~ Pages SP1 -SP8 ~

17th Century at National art Gallery ~ Page 14 ~

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By Valerie Schmal z

Archbishop George H. Niederauer said time is now for comprehe that the th to address the estimated nsive immigration reform residents of the United 11 million undocumented States. At a May conference held in press front of Mission Dolores14 pres Francisco, the San in San failure of the federalFrancisco Archbishop said the governme nt to address immigration reform may similar to Arizona’s cause more states to pass laws .

“This should not be ing for ‘open borders,’ an ‘amnesty.’ Nor are we askstanding with a woman,said Archbishop Niederauer, Rosa, a married mother four, who is fighting of deportation on an expired “Yes, to undocumented people – you belong visa. in the

By Valerie

ORLANDO, Fla. (CNS) – Sal Versaggi is no stranger to battling disaster.

As one of the owners Tampa, his shrimp boats of Versaggi Shrimp Co. out of have worked up and west coast of Florida down the – including areas in the Diocese of Venice – through hurricane after hurricane.

“God has a special He has to, when they’re affinity for fishermen,” he said. the winds and climate “at the mercy of nature and what and current does.”

Archdioces e criticizes same-sex marriage la w By

cisco olic

Weekly Cath

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Archbishop Niederau er, Bishop

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/AKINTUNDE

organizations from rescuing BANGKOK – Several women dren trapped within Catholic churches the zone where clashes and chilschools have become and the two sides between by violence between safe havens for people trap trapped the Asian have escalated in the past week, reported anti-government protesters church news agency the Thai army. and Four families, including UCA News.

The move came after women, children elderly, moved into Holy Redeemer School, said and prevented a Catholic-r protesters and army offic Father un charity and other officials Sirichai Laukobkul of the nongove - Church nongovern adjacent Holy Redeemer in Bangkok.

THAI VIOLENCE, page 6

converting e year after s progress on week ICA report y’ jobs-based model students worked one day a sional Re return in o level profes $4,000, while or non-profit entry- starting near 7:30 to a ‘Crist r, at a corporate school longe also receive

ts attended l position and g after 4 p.m. Most studen ls, all schoo Schmalz Catholic high other high schoo a.m. and leavin ruled out a to and unlike at ICA. es who had coming back scholarships costs are covered by lot of the schools Catholic familifor their daughters areyear – drawn by a tion fees and book e years ago, from r schools, we were school educaConception Academy thisial model, school “Just a coupl Mission, our feede l. The girls schoo the Immaculate Rey jobs-based financ in public lic right here ts – they were in years to Catho t one the new Cristo losing studen it. How sad to go eight lic high school,” ng developmen exciti raofficials say. most prepa ps the college could not afford be able to afford Catho starting to come That is perha ear-old Dominican tuition-based not , they are 127-y onal school and uerre. “Now year after theconverted from a traditi ach of the Cristo 3 said Espinal-Ag TO REY,’ page tory school corporate work study approtor Gina EspinalICA’S ‘CRIS back.” model to the ICA Admissions Direcl year was the first Rey Network, The 2009-2010 schoo than $10,000 to ed from more Aguerre said. tuition dropp one where

A young girl carries a medical handed out to anti-government “red encamped in an upscale kit han shirt” supporters shoppi shopping district in Bangkok , Thailand, May 17.

Service mental

By Catholic News

more pictu

Northern

By Karen Osborn

(CNS PHOTO

op 17th Auxiliary Bish of for the Archdiocese San Francisco

Catholic san Fran

E SE ES CE D I OC H DI AR CH

Congratulations to Bishop-elect Robert W. McElroy

Catholic san Francisco

Fathers y’s Cathedra g for ined priests at St. Mar .catholic-sf.or Newly orda ordination June 26 5. Visit www altar at their res on pages 14-1 pictu homily and

Newspaper

IOCESE OF

Robert W. named Msgr. the history p in ict XVI has Pope Bened the 17th auxiliary bisho archdiocesan The be Wee , McElroy to iocese of San Francisco. in San Mateo of the Archd Francisco native, a pastorssive academic priest is a Santheologian with an impre moral a and July 6 by Msgr. . background ntment was made publicd’affaires at the The appoi e, charge is Lantheaum .

Jean-Franco ature in Washington Gregory Parish in St. apostolic nunci roy, 56, is pastor of since 1996.

Msgr. McEl ministered will be where he has pal ordination Mass San Mateo, roy’s episco Msgr. McEl Mary’s Cathedral. that Monsignor ted at St. held Sept. 7 Archdiocese are deligh n even broader “We in this and zeal will be givenChurch and the gifts e H. the Catholicc McElroy’s ishopp Georg g the life of isco Archbbisho servin in scope here,” San Franc liary) community inn,, (Auxi us said.

John Quinn Niederauer Bishop Ignatiroy Archbishop “(Former) Justice and (retired)) lectt McEl p-elec m hop-e Bishop Willia in congratulating Bisho uer said. “We rauer edera Niede rs ishop brothe Wang join me Archb our d all of ntment,” on his appoi e of this Archdiocese and join us in praying o ask the peopl the Catholic Church to s he will need to aces c Newspaper and sisters in for the gifts and the grace ia’s Weekly Catholi for him, and apostolic office. interces- Northern Californ the general parish carry out his intention in your this of e e includ peopl “Please ask the ishop Masses, and well,” Archb sions in your t McElroy as Bishop-elec iscan, to pray for said. tion San Franc-secreeneraation Niederauer fifth-g a priest roy, He served as R. Quinn Msgr. McEl April 12, 1980. ishopp John vicar at was ordained an Francisco Archbbisho a parochial tary to then-S He has also servedd as St. Pius Parish in co and from 1982-85. in San Francisco Gregory, ntmenntt to St. istration.

St. Cecilia ParishBefore his appoiintme icar for admin incompan vicar Redwood City. had the the archdiocesa he served as past thirty years, I have h in the priestt he Churc “For the and the ent. “Throughou serving God rable joy of McElroy said in a statem ennobled by the tly antly t nstan hood,” Msgr. I have been const labor amids , oners who ioners the those years ge of parish obstacles to make also ng faith and coura world. I have overwhelmi sometimes in their lives andd in our bishops, priests, s upporrtt of Gospel real the constant suppo re the collaborator 6 my befo d d been stan experience deacons who have MCELROY, page id Schunk See T LECT ELEC religious and OP-E ke and Dav l in San Francisco.

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Catholic churches, sch safe havens from Tha ools become i violence

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By Rick DelV

FLORIDA CATHOLIC)

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Northern California’s

Floridians who make living from sea worried by effects of gulf oil spill

(CNS PHOTO/JACQ UE BRUND, THE

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(CNS PHOTO/JERR Y LAMPEN, REUTERS)

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Anglicans ente r Church . ...3 News in brie f. . . . . . . . . ....4 High school musicals . . . . 6-7 Commentary & letters .

10-11 Scripture & reflection .

12-13 Datebook . . .......... . . . 17 Services, class ified ads . 18-1 9

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PRE COLLEGE

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20

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

Book misses the complexities of Pope John Paul II and his times

TV review: “The Calling,” Dec. 20-21, PBS

By John Mulderig NEW YORK (CNS) – The four-hour documentary “The Calling” focuses on the challenges of responding to a religious vocation. Airing on PBS stations in two parts, Monday, Dec. 20, and Tuesday, Dec. 21, 9-11 p.m. EST each night (check local listings), the film profiles seven people, including Muslims, Jews, Protestants and one candidate for the Catholic priesthood, as they grapple with an array of problems.

Bilal Ansari, a Muslim chaplain in Connecticut’s prison system confronts anti-Muslim sentiments – and actions – in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Shmuly Yanklowitz, a New York rabbinical student, advocates for greater social responsibility in the kosher food industry after an immigration raid that led to accusations of employer’s abusive practices.

The Rev. Jeneen Robinson, a newly ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and Islamic scholar Tahera Ahmad both wrestle with the traditional limits on the role of women in their respective faiths.

Rob Pene, a Samoan-born theology student weighing his future as a Presbyterian minister, faces not only the demands of his far-off family and tribe – by custom, he should inherit his father’s role as a chieftain – but also his growing doubts about his faith.

Father Steven Gamez, first encountered on the morning of his ordination as a transitional deacon at San Antonio’s San Fernando Cathedral, ably and engagingly represents youthful priesthood.

Avowing his desire to be among the vast majority of good priests whose work for others generally goes unheralded in the media, he acknowledges the sacrifice involved in committing himself to celibacy. At a party following his priestly ordination, however, he memorably concludes: “I love women, but I love God more.”

Mulderig is on the staff of Catholic News Service. More reviews are available online at www.usccb.org/movies.

“THE END OF THE BEGINNING: POPE JOHN PAUL II – THE VICTORY OF FREEDOM, THE LAST YEARS, THE LEGACY” by George Weigel. Doubleday (New York, 2010). 565 pp., $32.50.

Reviewed by Agostino Bono (CNS) Pope John Paul II was complex and nuanced as a man and as head of the Catholic Church. So were the world’s political situation and the church’s internal dynamics when Karol Wojtyla was elected pope in 1978.

He was a key figure in the collapse of the communist-ruled Soviet empire and he set the church’s tone for almost 27 years, orienting its activity through the end of the 20th century and into the new millennium.

As the first non-Italian pope in more than four centuries, he brought a new outlook and a cultural framework to the Vatican for understanding and configuring Catholicism. Coming from communist-ruled Poland, John Paul also brought an urgency to the struggle for religious, political and personal freedom in the Soviet bloc. Added to this was his astute personal experience with communist leaders, making

him a wily strategist in the end game leading to the Iron Curtain’s fall.

Describing his role in changing world history and reorienting the church post-Second Vatican Council is a difficult and subtle task worth pursuing.

But George Weigel’s book, “The End and the Beginning,” is superficial despite the author’s qualifications as a Catholic writer and theoretician. Much of the time, he is more of a recording secretary. He recounts, rather than analyzes, what the pope said and did from day to day. Other parts of the book read more like a spiritual tract, using the pope’s own faith as an example of Catholic spiritual values.

Weigel’s attempt to shed light on the Soviet bloc’s war against the pope belabors what has been obvious for decades: The pope was seen by Soviet bloc leaders as a major threat to stability in their countries, requiring strong actions to neutralize him. Even with the use of declassified documents of Soviet bloc secret services, though, Weigel fails to add anything new to the key unanswered issue: Was Mehmet Ali Agca, who seriously wounded the pope in 1981, in the pay of the Soviet Union or one of its surrogates?

In some spots, Weigel shows little understanding of how the institutional church works,

such as in his discussion of the child sex abuse scandal. He writes that the failures are more the responsibility of national bishops’ conferences than of the pope. It is true that Pope John Paul is not responsible for the mushrooming of abuses as the overwhelming majority of the cases happened before his election. At the same time, bishops’ conferences aren’t responsible either and have much less power than the pope to resolve the crisis. A pope can remove a bishop who has covered up abuses. A national bishops’ conference can’t.

Bono is a retired CNS staff writer and a former Rome bureau chief.

Books offer hope to those struggling in difficult times “GOOD TIMES AND BAD TIMES: D I S C OV E R I N G S P I R I T UA L MEANING IN THE MIDST OF CRISIS AND UNCERTAINTY,” by John P. Lozano. Kairos Missions/Acta Publications (Chicago, 2010). 208 pp., $14.95.

“WALKING TOGETHER: DISCOVERING THE CATHOLIC TRADITION OF SPIRITUAL FRIENDSHIP,” by Mary DeTurris Poust. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Ind., 2010). 192 pp., $13.95.

“SAFELY THROUGH THE STORM: 120 REFLECTIONS ON HOPE,” by Debra Herbeck. Servant Books (Cincinnati, 2010). 81 pp., $12.99.

Reviewed by Sister Mona Castelazo, CSJ (CNS) These three books offer hope to those struggling to find spiritual meaning in the midst of suffering.

John Lozano’s “Good Times and Bad Times” deals with obstacles to spiritual devel-

Meet your new bishop: Bishop Robert McElroy San Francisco’s new auxiliary, Bishop Robert McElroy, will speak to us on the topic of “The Role of Professional Men and Women as Disciples Evangelizing the Public Square.”

With two PhDs (Political Science from Stanford, and Moral Theology from the North American College in Rome), Bishop McElroy is uniquely qualified to discuss how faith intersects with politics. A San Francisco native, he was ordained a bishop in 2010 after 30 years serving the Archdiocese as a priest.

WHEN: Wednesday, January 12. 2011, 5:30pm to 7:30pm WHERE: Caesar’s Restaurant, 2299 Powell Street at Bay Street, SF, 94133 COST: $20 per members, $30 for non-members (become a member for $45) Includes delicious Italian appetizers and no-host bar THIS EVENT WILL SELL OUT! RESERVATIONS STRONGLY ENCOURAGED! RESERVATIONS: Mail your contact information & a check payable to “CPBC-ADSF” to: CPBC, Attn: John Norris, 1 Peter Yorke Way, SF, CA 94109 or pay at the door.

www.cpbc-sf.org

through accepting failure, loss and suffering that transformation comes.

Mary DeTurris Poust’s “Walking Together” focuses on the importance of spiritual friends who share deep longings, strengthen one another and pray together. Saintly friendships include John of the Cross and Teresa of Avila; Francis de Sales and Jane de Chantal; and Therese of Lisieux and her sisters. Poust shows that spiritual friendships are possible between persons of different cultures, religions and genders.

“Safely Through the Storm” is a collection of 120 quotations from saints and Catholic writers on suffering, hope and trust in God. Quotations include inspirational material such as this from Pope John Paul II: “We are not the sum of our weaknesses and failures, we are the sum of the Father’s love for us and our real capacity to become the image of his Son.” Editor Debra Herbeck’s intent is to offer comfort to those suffering disappointment, pain or loss.

opment in our culture. We distract ourselves from inner emptiness through television, the Internet, other communication novelties and constant activities, and are therefore oblivious to the wonder of reality calling us to reflection and transformation.

The author suggests that Christians can be traumatized by unexpected changes or crises because of having established an illusion of control.

And we imagine God as a comforting force to “pull out on Sundays.” God becomes a sponsor of the American dream and the church a club, according to Lozano. If we pay our dues of going to church, donating money and making a faith commitment, we feel we are “covered.”

Lozano’s book shows that spiritual deepening requires us to be humble, present to mystery, aware of the sky, the stars and of God reflected in the majesty of the universe. Second, we must “know and accept our entire humanity in all its goodness and all its destructive tendencies” in order to know God. Change may be painful and threatening, Lozano says, but to change is to live life. It is

Sister Mona Castelazo, a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet, has taught English for many years in Los Angeles.

SCRIPTURE SEARCH Gospel for December 19, 2010 Matthew 1:18-24 Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for Fourth Sunday of Advent, Cycle A: Matthew’s prologue to Jesus’ birth. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

BIRTH JOSEPH BEHOLD APPEARED YOUR WIFE SAVE VIRGIN

JESUS CHRIST MAN AN ANGEL IN A DREAM BEAR A SON SINS EMMANUEL

MOTHER MARY QUIETLY THE LORD SON OF DAVID NAME FULFILL HOME

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© 2010 Tri-C-A Publications www.tri-c-a-publications.com

Sponsored by Duggan’s Serra Mortuary 500 Westlake Avenue, Daly City 650-756-4500 ● www.duggansserra.com

December 17, 2010

New Year’s Eve Dec. 31, 7 p.m.: Join the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose and friends who will gather for a sixth year to welcome the New Year! We’ll share a reflective evening. We’ll use the book “The Shack” as a lens to look at our year and look ahead to 2011. Pray with Taize – Prayer Around the Cross and celebrate the faith together with Mass starting at 11:30 p.m. followed by a potluck celebration. Come for any part or all of the evening at the Motherhouse of the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose 43326 Mission Blvd. (entrance on Mission Tierra Place), Fremont. For more information, specific times on the schedule or to RSVP contact Sister Frances Mary Pierson at blessings@msjdominicans.org or (510) 933-6335. If you need to reach us on New Year’s Eve, December 31st for any reason, call Sister Beth Quire at (510) 449-7554

Jan. 21, 7:30 p.m.: The Interfaith Committee for Life is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and its 24th Annual Interfaith Service for Life at St. Mary Cathedral. The service is followed by a reception. Featured speakers include Father Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests for Life, and David Beriet, National Campaign Director of 40 Days for Life.

Auxiliary Bishop William Justice will offer a blessing. A Procession of Roses with over 50 Bay Area pro-life groups signifies the more than 53 million lives lost through abortion since the passage of Roe v. Wade in 1973. Visit www.walkforlifewc.com.

P UT

Datebook

Consolation Ministry

Dec. 19, 5 p.m.: Mission Dolores Basilica Choir performs its 19th Annual Candlelight Christmas Concert, in the basilica, 16th and Dolores in San Francisco. Jerome Lenk conducts. Program includes Handel’s Utrecht Jubilate and additional songs of the season. Tickets are $25 reserved, $18 premium general and $15 general admission Call (415) 621-8203; visit www.missiondolores.org or go to parish office. Free parking.

Sundays, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.: Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament with Benediction at Notre Dame des Victoires Church, 566 Bush St. between Stockton and Grant in San Francisco. Convenient parking is available across Bush St. in StocktonSutter garage. Call 397-0113.

Taize Sung Prayer: 1st Friday at 8 p.m.: Mercy Center, 2300 Adeline Dr., Burlingame with Mercy Sister Suzanne Toolan. Call (650) 340-7452; young adults are invited each first Friday of the month to attend a social at 6 p.m. prior to Taize prayer at 8 p.m. The social provides light refreshments and networking with other young adults. Convenient parking is available. For more information, e-mail mercyyoungadults@sbcglobal.net. Tuesdays at 6 p.m.: Notre Dame Des Victoires Church, 566 Bush at Stockton, San Francisco with Rob Grant. Call (415) 397-0113.

3rd Friday, 8 p.m.: Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, Motherhouse Chapel, 43326 Mission Blvd. (off Mission Tierra), Fremont. For further information, please contact Dominican Sister Beth Quire at (510) 449-7554 or visit www.msjdominicans.org; Dec. 23, 7 p.m.: St. Teresa of Avila Parish, corner of 19th Street and Connecticut in the Potrero Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. For more information e-mail info@ stteresasf.org or call (415) 285-5272.

St. Anthony Foundation will be accepting donations of clean clothing and dried and canned foods at its annual St. Anthony’s Curbside Drive during the week before Christmas. Donations accepted Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers will be on site in red jackets at 105 Golden Gate Avenue at Jones in San Francisco. Call (415) 592-2700 or visit www.stanthonysf.org Volunteer: Catholic Charities CYO is an independent non-profit organization operating as the social services arm of the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Contact Liz Rodriguez at erodriguez@cccyo.org or (415) 9721297 to fill out a volunteer application. A list of current open volunteer positions is available online at www.cccyo.org/volunteer.

St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco (SVDP). SVDP works to provide direct person to person service to San Francisco’s poor, homeless, and victims of domestic violence. Serving more than 1,000 children, women and men every day, volun-

teers play a critical difference in our community. For more info contact Tim Szarnicki: tszarnicki@svdp-sf. org 415-977-1270 x3010.

St. Anthony Foundation serves thousands of poor and homeless individuals and families through its food program, drug and alcohol recovery, free medical clinic, clothing program, tech lab, and other programs. For more information, visit www.stanthonysf.org and fill out a volunteer opportunity request form or contact Marie O’Connor at 415-592-2726.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul of San Mateo County is the safety net every year for over 40,000 San Mateo County residents in need, including more than 17,000 children. Call Atrecia at 373-0623 or e-mail svdpinfo@yahoo.com.

Handicapables continues its 40-year tradition of prayer and fellowship each month at St. Mary’s Cathedral. Volunteers are always welcome. Call Olivia at (415) 751-853, or Jane at (415) 585-9085.

La Porziuncola Nuova at National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi. Contact Jim Brunsmann at jimbrunsmann@comcast.net or go to www.knightsofsaintfrancis.com and follow the Volunteer Application link at the bottom of the home page.

Arts and Entertainment Jan. 8, 2 p.m.: Feast of the Epiphany Día de los Reyes concert for children, by Coro Hispano de San Francisco, directed by Juan Pedro Gaffney R. with the vocal and instrumental artists of Conjunto Nuevo Mundo. Concert is at the Mission Cultural Center, 2868 Mission St. in San Francisco. Admission is free. Donations gladly accepted. Visit www.corohispano.org Jan. 9, 3 p.m.: Día de los Reyes concert by Coro Hispano de San Francisco at Mission Dolores Basilica, Dolores at 16th St. in San Francisco. Juan Pedro Gaffney R. conducts with the vocal and instrumental artists of Conjunto Nuevo Mundo. Tickets are $20 for general seating and $15 for seniors and students. Age 18 and younger admitted free. www.corohispano.org

TV/Radio Fridays at 9 a.m.: The Archbishop’s Hour on Immaculate Heart Radio, KSFB - 1260 AM, San Francisco. Enjoy news, conversation and in-depth

Grief support groups meet at the following parishes: San Mateo County: Good Shepherd, Pacifica; call Sister Carol Fleitz at (650) 355-2593. Our Lady of Mercy, Daly City; call parish at (650) 755-2727.

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Redwood City; call parish at (650) 366-3802. St. Bartholomew, San Mateo; Barbara Syme (650) 343-6156. St. Peter, Pacifica; call parish at (650) 359-6313. St. Pius, Redwood City; call parish at (650) 361-0655. St. Robert, San Bruno; call Sr. Patricia O’Sullivan at (650) 589-0104.

Marin County: St. Anselm, San Anselmo; call Brenda MacLean at (415) 454-7650. St. Anthony, Novato; call parish (415) 883-2177. St. Hilary, Tiburon; call Helen Kelly at (415) 388-9651. Our Lady of Loretto, Novato; call Sr. Jeanette at (415) 897-2171.

San Francisco County: St. Dominic; call Deacon Chuck McNeil at (415) 567-7824. St. Gabriel; call Monica Williams at (650) 756-2060. St. Mary’s Cathedral; call Sister Esther McEgan at (415) 5672020 ext. 218. Alma Via; contact Mercy Feeney at (650) 756-4500.

Young Widow/Widower Group: St. Gregory, San Mateo; call Barbara Elordi at (415) 614-5506.

Ministry to Grieving Parents: Our Lady of Angels, Burlingame; call Ina Potter at (650) 347-6971 or Barbara Arena at (650) 344-3579.

Social Justice / Lectures/Respect Life Jan. 16, 2011, 1:45 p.m.: “An Old and New Invitation: How do we as believers deal with challenges facing us about belonging to this family of faith called the Catholic Church?” Answer this question with Mercy Sister Eloise Rosenblatt, a Professor of Biblical Studies at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and at Santa Clara University, who also practices law. Sister Eloise has authored books and written articles on Scripture, conducted retreats and written for Catholic San Francisco newspaper. Takes place at Notre Dames des Victoires Chuch, 566 Bush St. at Grant in San Francisco. Reasonably priced parking is available across Bush at Stockton Sutter Garage. Admission is free. For more information, call (415) 397-0113.

Datebook is a free listing for parishes, schools and non-profit groups. Please include event name, time, date, place, address and an information phone number.

Listing must reach Catholic San Francisco at least two weeks before the Friday publication date desired. Mail your notice to: Datebook, Catholic San Francisco, One Peter Yorke Way, S.F. 94109, or fax it to (415) 614-5633, e-mail burket@sfarchdiocese.org, or visit www.catholic-sf.org, Contact Us.

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look at local and larger Church. Program is rerun Fridays and Mondays at 9 p.m. and Sundays at 11 a.m. - e-mail info@sfarchdiocese.org with comments and questions about faith. 1260 AM also offers daily Mass, rosary and talk on the faith. Visit www.ihradio.org Sunday, 6 a.m., KOFY Channel 20/Cable 13 and KTSF Channel 26/Cable 8: TV Mass with Msgr.

Harry Schlitt presiding.

Sunday, 7 a.m.: TV Mass on The Filipino Channel (TFC) (Channel 241 on Comcast and Channel 2060 on Direct TV. Saturday, 4 p.m.: Religious programming in Cantonese over KVTO 1400 AM, co-sponsored by the Chinese Ministry and Chinese Young Adults of the Archdiocese.

1st Sunday, 5 a.m., CBS Channel 5: “Mosaic,” featuring conversations on current Catholic issues.

EWTN Catholic Television: Comcast Channel 229, AT&T Channel 562, Astound Channel 80, San Bruno Cable Channel 143, DISH Satellite Channel 261, Direct TV Channel 370. For programming details, visit www.ewtn.com.

Advent Opportunities Through Dec. 22, 4:30 p.m. – 6: 30 p.m.: Picture biography of Blessed Mother Teresa at Star of the Sea Convent, Geary at 8th Avenue in San Francisco.

Exhibit features 78 panels each 47 inches square including pictures taken by Michael Collopy, whose photography is known around the world. Collopy who studied with famed photographer Ansell Adams and is a graduate of Junipero Serra High School, was Mother Teresa’s personal photographer for many years. Items used by Mother Teresa while she was in San Francisco including a prayer book and utensils will also be on display. Exhibit opens with Mass in Star of the Sea Church, 8th Ave. at Geary, Dec. 10 at 4 p.m. Veneration of Blessed Mother Teresa relic after Mass. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament happens simultaneously with times of exhibit in the convent chapel.

Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m.: St. Charles Parish Annual Christmas Concert under the direction of Claire Giovannetti. Join the adult and children’s choirs in St. Charles newly renovated church to celebrate the rich heritage of Advent and Christmas music, carols both old and new - some for listening and some for singing along. Admission is free. An offering will be taken for the support of the music programs. St. Charles Church is located at 880 Tamarack Avenue in San Carlos. Call (650) 591-7349 x32 for more information.

Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m.: “Annual Christmas Celebration for the Divorced, Separated and Widowed of the Archdiocese of San Francisco” at St. Dominic Church, lower floor, 2390 Bush St. at Steiner St. in San Francisco. A potluck dinner, and gift collection for charity will be followed by caroling, and a possible visit from Santa. To reply and more information, contact Gail Castro, (650) 591-8452 or Vonnie McGee at (650) 873-4736.

Dec. 18 – Jan. 2: “Live Nativity Scene” at Our Lady of the Pillar Church, Kelly and Church St. in Half Moon Bay with actors in roles of the Holy Family, Wise Men, and Shepherds. For times and additional details, call Mel Schwing at (650) 726-6765 or Cesar Sanchez at (650) 823-1259.

Sundays through Jan. 9, 2 – 5 p.m.: Sacred Synergies: paintings and Jewish ceremonial objects

by Tobi Kahn at the Manresa Gallery of St. Ignatius Church, Parker at Fulton in San Francisco at USF. “It is the gallery’s hope that this exhibition will provide a platform to engage in interfaith dialogue by way of the arts,” said Tamara Lowenstein, gallery manager. The artists talks on “Creating Sacred Space” Oct. 17 at the gallery. Additional lectures and related events will follow on later dates. Visit www. manresagallery.org.

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Inner Child Healing Offers a deep spiritual and psychological approach to counseling: ❖ 30 years experience with individuals, couples and groups ❖ Directed, effective and results-oriented ❖ Compassionate and Intuitive ❖ Supports 12-step ❖ Enneagram Personality Transformation ❖ Free Counseling for Iraqi/Afghanistani Vets

Lila Caffery, MA, CCHT San Francisco: 415.337.9474 Complimentary phone consultation www.InnerChildHealing.com

NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR

Licensed contractors are required by law to list their license numbers in advertisments. The law also state that contractors performing work totaling $500 or more must be state-licensed. Advertisments appearing in this newspaper without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed.

For more information, contact: Contractors State License Board 800-321-2752

FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED HELP Marriage, Family, and Individual Counseling David Nellis M.A. M.F.T. (415) 242-3355 www.christiancounseling2.com

December 17, 2010

Catholic San Francisco

23

Catholic San Francisco

classifieds FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION Call: 415-614-5642 Fax: 415-614-5641

Email: penaj@sfarchdiocese.org

N OV E N A S PUBLISH A NOVENA Pre-payment required Mastercard or Visa accepted

Cost $26

If you wish to publish a Novena in the Catholic San Francisco You may use the form below or call 415-614-5640 Your prayer will be published in our newspaper

Name Adress Phone MC/VISA # Exp. â?‘ Prayer to the Blessed Virgin â?‘ Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Select One Prayer: â?‘ St. Jude Novena to SH â?‘ Prayer to St. Jude

Please return form with check or money order for $26 Payable to: Catholic San Francisco Advertising Dept., Catholic San Francisco 1 Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, CA 94109

St. Jude Novena May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus pray for us.

St. Jude helper of the hopeless pray for us.

Say prayer 9 times a day for 9 days.

Thank You St. Jude.

Never known to fail.

You may publish.

Prayer to the Blessed Virgin never known to fail.

Tahoe Rental RENTAL CONDO LAKE VINACATION SOUTH LAKE TAHOE. TAHOE Sleeps 8, near Heavenly Valley and Casinos.

Call 925-933-1095 RENTAL See it at RentMyCondo.com#657

P.P.

Most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel Blessed Mother of the Son of God, assistme in my need. Help me and show me you are my mother.

Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to help me in this need.

Oh Mary, conceived without sin. Pray for us (3X).

Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3X).

Say prayers 3 days.

P.P.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer to St. Jude

Travel

Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and who shows me the way to reach my ideal.

You who give me the divine gift of forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. You may publish this as soon as your favor is granted. M.A.B.

Oh, Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near Kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance.

Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make you be invoked. Say three our Fathers, three Hail Marys and Glorias.

St. Jude pray for us all who invoke your aid. Amen.

This Novena has never been known to fail. This Novena must be said 9 consecutive days. Thanks.

P.P.

Chimney Cleaning Summ e Speciar/Fall ls

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Automotive

Hilltop Buick Pontiac GMC Truck I P L B A ! • Extensive inventory means selection • Competitive pricing • Give us your bid • We can offer YOU SAVINGS! • Exceptional customer service • Easy access off I-80 at Hilltop Richmond

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Help Wanted ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT / BOOKKEEPER St. Denis Parish, Menlo Park seeks an administrative assistant/bookkeeper to provide secretarial and administrative support and assistance to the Pastor, manage the accounting system, keeps up to date the Parish records, answer and screen incoming calls and handle the payroll materials.

Successful candidates will have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, must have excellent computer skills using MS office, familiarity with QuickBooks, excellent phone manners, positive attitude and pleasant demeanor, requires 4-6 years administrative experience in a parish center or non-profit organization and must work with a high level of confidentiality.

Interested candidates should forward a resume and a cover letter to: Rev. Jose Shaji 2250 Avy Ave, Menlo Park, CA 94025 Or Fax to 650-854-3754

Visit us at www.catholic-sf.org

24

Catholic San Francisco

December 17, 2010

In Remembrance of the Faithful Departed Interred In Our Catholic Cemeteries During the Month of November HOLY CROSS COLMA

Huakun Guan Eleanor M. Hermitte Teresa Hernandez De Perez Harry E. Heselton, Jr. Albina V. Arietta Earl Dean Hill Yvette E. Ball Ralph D. House Shaun Bradley Balleza Lydia S. Hynson Robert D. Barbagelata Mary Jaine Iacopi Candida A. Bell Luis R. Iglesias Carla Ortiz Benitez Frank T. Janes Elizabeth “Teri” Bent Eloise L. Kee Jean B. Boffi Mary C. Lazzara Amelita E. Bongco Kikuko Lee George R. Bottest Adele Agnes Lewis James Boyer Sietske Lopez Mary A. Bradley Norman Luna Anthony F. Brown King Wen Ma Marilyn Pyle Brown Paula M. Mack Louise Caceres Esther L. Maguire Juliet Calalo Edith D. Maley Alfred Camilleri Francis Mallia Anna Carlin Jeannette J. Marino Jim J. Carrasco Jesus Marquez Richard J. Caserza Claudia L. Martucci Elena B. Catelli Eugene J. Marty Rodolfo A. Cinco Estela P. Marzan Christopher Clark Geraldine A. McCarthy Rosa Del Carmen Contreras Andrea Marie McDevitt Agustine S. Cook Sr. Gloria Marie Medici, PBVM George S. A. Cook William Harry Moore III Virginia H. Cournale Adrienne E. Moore, O.C.D.S. Frank Cozza Karin Ellen Murray Lloyd D’Augusta Jean Claude Muzac Lena “Lee” DaPrato Nasir Nasir Sr. M. Yolanda De Francesco Joseph H. Neal Jerome A. DeFilippo, Sr. Rev. Peter A. DiFrancescantonio Renee Bevans Nealon Raymond J. O’Malley Luis Diokno Anna L. O’Nate Domingo V. Diolula, Jr. Kathryn C. Och Anne M. Doherty Jack F. Pacheco Jose A. Estrada Josephine Pagano Roberto Estrada Emilia M. Panganiban Eugene J. Fanucchi, Sr. Gloria Papapietro Ramona A. Ferrer Mercedes Puccinelli Mary A. Foley Proceso Remo William F. Frost Ceni P. Remo Betty Coakley Gaetke Marcella M. Revel William M. Gallagher Jacinta B. Riveral Salvatore Gallo Hilda Roberts Piroska Galovits Marge Rosellini Enrico T. Garcia James J. Ruane Beverly J. Gilmore Adela D. Sales Olga Stella Gladstein Bruno Sanchez Eduardo Liberato Gosano

Blanca Sandino Katherine M. Schindler Frank Sevieri Anne M. Shea Jack A. Slavich Anne I. Smith Consuelo M. Soriano Emanuel “Leli” Spiteri Jean C. Stansbury Lisa M. Stewart Flora Tiejeiro Manuela C. Uribe Victor Manuel Vega, Jr. Steven A. Vina Honorable Judge Raymond Daniel Williamson, Jr. Maureen E. Wilson Marie A. Woelflen Demetrio Xavier Sophie Zagorewicz

HOLY CROSS MENLO PARK Fernando Baez Paula Marina D’Haese Boudart Juan Gerardo Buenrostro Pilar T. Monje Yousef Suleiman Nawas Maria Elena Salceda

MT. OLIVET SAN RAFAEL Paul George Camera Walter A. Camiccia John S. Cardoza, Jr. Adeline D. Fox Rita R. Hoffman Alfred “Bud” Luiz Yone del Pozo Marcinowski Sharyn B. Morena Noelle Carole Torre

ST. ANTHONY’S, PESCADERO June Caughey

HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY, COLMA First Saturday Mass – 11:00 a.m.

All Saints Mausoleum Chapel Saturday, January 1, 2011 Rev. Charles Puthota, Celebrant St. Veronica Parish

The Catholic Cemeteries Archdiocese of San Francisco www.holycrosscemeteries.com HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY 1500 Mission Road, Colma, CA 650-756-2060 PILARCITOS CEMETERY Hwy. 92 @ Main, Half Moon Bay, CA 650-712-1676

HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CEMETERY Intersection of Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park, CA 650-323-6375 ST. ANTHONY CEMETERY Stage Road, Pescadero, CA 650-712-1679

MT. OLIVET CATHOLIC CEMETERY 270 Los Ranchitos Road, San Rafael, CA 415-479-9020 OUR LADY OF THE PILLAR CEMETERY Miramontes St., Half Moon Bay, CA 650-712-1679

A Tradition of Faith Throughout Our Lives.