THE BISHOPS OF ORANGE ON CARDINAL ROBERT MCELROY’S NEW
APPOINTMENT
Bishop Vann, Bishop Freyer and Bishop Thanh Thai Nguyen send their greetings of fraternal support, prayer and gratitude to Cardinal McElroy upon his appointment as Archbishop of Washington, D.C. We pray that the manifestation of the light of Christ be given to him today and in the days ahead in this new time in his life.
Over these years we have enjoyed collaborating with Cardinal McElroy and the Diocese of San Diego on many issues that affect our
communities. Although we will miss having Cardinal McElroy next door to us, the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. will benefit from the Cardinal’s wisdom, insight and joy.
Bishop Vann, in particular, is grateful to the Cardinal for his support and friendship over the years, particularly in their work in the California Catholic Conference when Cardinal McElroy was the president and Bishop Vann was the vice-president.
JOB
POSTING
Are you a person with expertise in business, finance or accounting and a love of the Catholic faith and Catholic Parishes or Schools? The Diocese of Orange is actively seeking such candidates for Business Manager positions (full-time and part-time) within our 100 or so parishes and schools.
As a Business Manager, you will play a crucial role in the financial and operational management of our parish and/ or school locations. You will work closely with parish and/ or school leadership to ensure the smooth running of daily operations, manage budgets, oversee financial reporting, and support various parish and/or school activities and programs. Your role is vital is helping realize the mission of our parishes and schools in welcoming all to live the Gospel with faith, joy, charity and unity.
INTERESTED CANDIDATES ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT THEIR RESUMES TO HRJOBS@RCBO.ORG. PLEASE INCLUDE "BUSINESS MANAGER APPLICATION" IN THE SUBJECT LINE.
JANUARY 12, 2025
MISSION BASILICA TO HOST ECUMENICAL SERVICE
The San Juan Capistrano parish is hosting the event in conjunction with the upcoming Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST SCHOOL: A DREAM REALIZED
The Costa Mesa Catholic school begins construction on its new gymnasium this year.
14 WHEN DOES CHRISTMAS END?
The true Christmas season gives the faithful a longer holiday celebration.
ORANGE
COUNTY CATHOLIC MISSION STATEMENT
The Orange County Catholic Newspaper seeks to illuminate and animate the journey of faith for Catholics within the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange – building solidarity among the faithful and inviting a deeper understanding and involvement in the mission of Christ – through the timely sharing of news, commentary and feature content in an engaging, accessible and compelling format.
ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC
The Official Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange Diocese of Orange Pastoral Center, 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove 92840
Publisher: The Most Reverend Kevin W. Vann, Bishop of Orange
Executive Editor: Jarryd Gonzales
Managing Editor: Patricia Mahoney, editor@occatholic.com
News Ideas: editor@occatholic.com
Delivery Problems: occatholicsupport@occatholic.com
ADVERTISING
Director of Custom Content: Caroline Wong, cawong@scng.com
SCNG CUSTOM CONTENT
Managing Editor: Caitlin Adams Art Director: Ryann Beveridge
Delivered weekly to parishes and homes throughout Orange County, Calif., Orange County Catholic is published by SCNG Custom Content, a division of Southern California News Group that offers content development and design expertise to businesses and nonprofit institutions. The Orange County Catholic editorial staff and editorial council are responsible for the content contained herein. Events and products advertised in Orange County Catholic do not carry the implicit endorsement of the Diocese of Orange or SCNG Custom Content.
JANUARY 15 & February 12, 2025
The Camino School, Tustin
JANUARY 23, 2025
Mission Basilica School, San Juan Capistrano
JANUARY 26, 2025
Christ Cathedral Academy, Garden Grove; Holy Family School, Orange; La Purisima School, Orange; Our Lady Queen of Angels School, Newport Beach; St. Angela Merici School, Brea; St. Bonaventure School, Huntington Beach; St. Catherine’s Academy, Anaheim; St. Cecilia School, Tustin; St. Columban School, Garden Grove; St. Edward the Confessor Parish School, Dana Point; St. Francis of Assisi School, Yorba Linda; St. Hedwig School, Los Alamitos; St. Irenaeus School, Cypress; St. Joachim School, Costa Mesa; St. Joseph School, Placentia; St. Juliana School, Fullerton; St. Junipero Serra Catholic School, Rancho Santa Margarita; St. Norbert School, Orange; St. Pius V School, Buena Park; Saints Simon & Jude School, Huntington Beach
JANUARY 30, 2025
Our Lady of Fatima Academy, San Clemente
JANUARY 31, 2025
St. Justin Martyr School, Anaheim
February 2, 2025
St. Anne Parish School, Santa Ana; St. Barbara School, Santa Ana; St. John the Baptist School, Costa Mesa; St. Joseph School, Santa Ana
February 23, 2025
Blessed Sacrament School, Westminster
ROSARY BEADS
READER CALL-OUT
According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), “The repetition in the Rosary is meant to lead one into restful and contemplative prayer related to each Mystery. The gentle repetition of the words helps us to enter into the silence of our hearts, where Christ's spirit dwells. The Rosary can be said privately or with a group.”
If you would like to share a photo of your Rosary Beads with our readers, please send a photo and brief description (include your name and parish) to: editor@occatholic.com C
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY
HEBREWS 1:1-6; PSALM 97:1 AND 2B, 6 AND 7C, 9; MARK 1:14-20
TUESDAY
HEBREWS 2:5-12; PSALM 8:2AB AND 5, 6-7, 8-9; MARK 1:21-28
“ The Kingdom of God sprouts in the small things...”
— Pope Francis
SAINT PROFILE
MARGUERITE BOURGEOYS 1620-1700
GROWING UP IN TROYES, France, Marguerite formed a special relationship with Our Lady. She was turned away by two religious communities, but met the founder of Montreal, Canada, when he returned to France to visit his sister. He invited Marguerite to open a school in the New World; she went, despite misgivings, after praying to Mary. From that first school in an abandoned stable, her ministry grew to include teaching women crafts and founding the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame. She managed to keep her sisters uncloistered, despite opposition from the bishop, and served as superior for many years. When Pope John Paul II canonized her in 1982, she became Canada's first woman saint.C
PHOTOS: CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE, SHUTTERSTOCK
WEDNESDAY
HEBREWS 2:14-18; PSALM 105:12, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9; MARK 1:29-39
THURSDAY
HEBREWS 3:7-14; PSALM 95:6-7C, 8-9, 10-11; MARK 1:40-45
FRIDAY
HEBREWS 4:1-5, 11; PSALM 78:3 & 4BC, 6C-7, 8; MARK 2:1-12
SATURDAY
HEBREWS 4:1216; PSALM 19:8, 9, 10, 15; MARK 2:13-17
SUNDAY
ISAIAH 62:1-5; PSALM 96:1-2, 2-3, 7-8, 9-10; 1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-11; JOHN 2:1-11
PHOTO BY BILL ALKOFER/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
PILGRIMS OF HOPE
DIOCESE OF ORANGE KICKS OFF LOCAL CELEBRATION OF THE CHURCH’S 2025 JUBILEE YEAR
BY BRITNEY ZINT
CHRIST CATHEDRAL overflowed with believers from all walks of life as the Diocese of Orange kicked off its local celebration of the Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year on a cold and foggy final Sunday of the year.
The Jubilee Year is an invitation for all Catholics worldwide to rediscover the presence of God and reinvigorate trust in His promise. The Dec. 29 Mass, celebrated by Bishop Kevin Vann, featured the Year of Hope Cross, specially designed for the Diocese and containing various symbols specific to Orange County, such as an orange tree and St. Junípero Serra (founder of Mission San Juan Capistrano). The Church has designated this year's theme to be "Pilgrims of Hope."
“Hope, as St. Paul would say, does not disappoint us,” said Bishop Vann during his homily. “It is one of the great theological virtues. It is a sense of expectation for what is to come, and that God will be faithful to us ... and we approach the New Year in hope, knowing that the Lord will be with us and show us the way.”
Every seat was filled for the Jubilee Mass on Holy Family Sunday with many families finding spots on staircases, against bannisters and along back walls. The cathedral sanctuary was fully decorated for the season of Advent in red and white poinsettias, a Christmas tree and strands of garland and lights.
The Year of Hope Cross will serve as the focal point of the Diocese’s Jubilee Year celebration, which is recognized every 25 years in the Catholic Church.
Since the Church began the tradition in 1300, 2025 is the 27th ordinary Jubilee Year, save for “extraordinary” jubilees that are not part of the 25-year rotation.
Parishioner Yolanda Robles’ personal goal for the New Year is similar to that of the 2025 Jubilee Year: enriching her faith.
“I would say to have a stronger faith,” Robles said, “just grow in my religion, grow closer to God.”
Julio Lopez was participating in the Mass with his wife and newly turned 2-year-old daughter. After a hiatus, the family wanted to start regularly attending church again, so they made a point to come to the last Sunday Mass of 2024.
“If you put hope into everything, it will work out,” Lopez said, reflecting on Bishop Vann’s homily and the Jubilee Year theme. “Circumstances, work, your life — it will work out.”
For the Jubilee Year, the Church will CONTINUES ON PAGE 6
THE DEC. 29, 2024, MASS, CELEBRATED BY BISHOP KEVIN VANN, FEATURED THE YEAR OF HOPE CROSS. PHOTOS BY IAN TRAN/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
be also offering plenary indulgences for those who visit the Year of Hope Cross or another designated site, among other requirements.
In Vatican City, Pope Francis heralded the Jubilee Year on Dec. 24 with the ceremonial opening of the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica. The door is normally sealed with bricks — a symbolic reminder of the barrier of sin between people and God — and is only opened during Jubilee Years, according to Our Sunday Visitor
The worldwide Jubilee Year ends on Jan. 6, 2026.
For more information on the 2025 Jubilee Year in the Diocese of Orange, the Year of Hope Cross, pilgrimages, indulgences and more, visit www.rcbo. org/hope C
FEATURE
CHRIST CATHEDRAL WAS FILLED TO CAPACITY
THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE’S LOCAL CELEBRATION OF THE CHURCH’S
2024. PHOTOS
EVERY SEAT WAS FILLED FOR THE JUBILEE MASS HELD ON HOLY FAMILY SUNDAY AT CHRIST CATHEDRAL.
THE YEAR OF HOPE CROSS WILL SERVE AS THE FOCAL POINT OF THE DIOCESE’S JUBILEE YEAR CELEBRATION, WHICH IS RECOGNIZED EVERY 25 YEARS IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH.
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH (PLACENTIA) EXPANDS RECTORY TO HOUSE RETIRED PRIESTS
BY MIKE ZINN
ON JULY 1, 2024, Fr. Martin Vu began his new assignment as parochial administrator of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Placentia. Many tasks greeted Fr. Martin upon his arrival at the 71-yearold church. The interior was undergoing major renovations and so Mass services were moved to the parish hall. Additionally, Fr. Martin was tasked with supervising the final touches for the renovation of the rectory to accommodate retired priests. These significant tasks needed to be attended to while becoming acquainted with parishioners and conducting administrative duties. This was a daunting task for any priest, much less a new administrator still in his early years as a priest.
The St. Joseph Rectory project is part of a larger diocesan initiative. Other locations that are part of this Diocese-wide plan include St. Kilian parish in Mission Viejo, Our Lady Queen of Angels parish in Newport Beach and Clearwater at North Tustin Retirement Home. St. Joseph was chosen in part due to its history of community hospitality given to retired priests and having a rectory with a large footprint to work with.
The vision for the St. Joseph renovation, completed in August, included a new pantry, kitchen, patio renovations and expansion of the living quarters. The rectory can now accommodate two permanent priests, one priest who serves the Syro-Malabar Rite in Orange County, four retired priests and one visiting priest for eight living quarters. Other amenities that have been added are new flooring throughout the rectory, lighting and furniture. Some of the furniture is new, and parishioners have donated some additional pieces. This allows for
FR. MARTIN
DISCUSS THE EXPANSION OF THE RECTORY TO HOUSE RETIRED PRIESTS. PHOTOS BY STEVEN GEORGES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
blending new and old, giving the rectory a sense of newness while allowing parishioners' memories to live on with their furniture. One piece of donated furniture is a couch in Fr. Martin’s suite, which belonged to the late Fr. John Janze, former pastor at St. Thomas More parish, which keeps his legacy present.
The first retired priest in residence is Fr. Eamon O’Gorman, who moved to St. Joseph in October. Fr. Eamon was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles after attending the All Hallows Seminary in Dublin, Ireland. Fr. Eamon served the Archdiocese of Los Angeles at St. Finbar in Burbank, St. Luke The Evangelist in Temple City and CONTINUES ON PAGE 8
VU OF ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH IN PLACENTIA AND RETIRED PRIEST FR. EAMON O’GORMAN
St. Mary in Fullerton. When the Diocese of Orange was established in 1976, Fr. Eamon served at St. Martin de Porres in Yorba Linda. After St. Martin de Porres, he served as pastor of St. Columban until 1993,when he agreed to be named vicar for priests (19931999) and then he was assigned as pastor of St. Catherine of Siena from 1999 to his retirement in 2014.
Regarding his duties at St. Joseph, Fr. Eamon said, “I will preside among the assembly as needed and worship here. Both are equally important. I will always be a priest. The enjoyable parts of this calling remain and get better constantly.”
Since retiring 10 years ago, Fr. Eamon has remained active at the House of Prayer, where he can meet with priests and walk with them on their journey.
“Priests inspire me,” he said, “and that continues.”
Fr. Eamon occasionally celebrates Mass at St. Angela Merici Catholic Church in Brea, where he has a historic relationship.”
Fr. Steve Frost will soon move into the rectory, becoming the second retired priest in residence.
Fr. Martin has identified other opportunities to involve Fr. Eamon. With the new church renovation, two confessionals were being used for storage. Fr. Martin had those renovated, and one was permanently assigned to Fr. Eamon, where parishioners could continue their relationship with him by going to confession with him.
The new renovation at St. Joseph has proved to be a meaningful project that offers housing to retired priests and serves the community. The opportunity to serve the parish is a wonderful byproduct of having retired priests on the property. When asked what it meant to have retired priests as part of the community, Fr. Martin pointed to the two months that Fr. Eamon has been in residence.
“I am grateful for the support and mentorship he has provided,” said Fr. Martin. “His presence is incredible. He is a wellspring of blessing and grace for our community.” C
MORE RENOVATIONS AT ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH (PLACENTIA)
BY MIKE ZINN
THE LAST SENTENCE OF the St. Joseph Church Mission Statement reads, “Together we grow as Disciples of the Lord in Faith and Action.”
When Fr. Martin Vu started his assignment at Joseph in Placentia as a newly appointed parochial administrator, he inherited various projects and tasks that were years in the making. One thing quickly became apparent: the parish community he was joining had an abundance of faith and action. This faith and action became the cornerstones for completing a major interior church renovation that began several years prior to his arrival — just in time to celebrate Christmas Eve Mass.
After his arrival at the parish on July 1,
2024, he quickly became involved in the challenging project of the interior renovation of the church. This project started with a church bathroom renovation that was completed in June of 2023. When the city inspectors were doing their final “walk-thru,’ it was discovered that the church did not have a fire sprinkler system in place. The city gave St. Joseph a two year “grace period” to plan and complete this project. This project was spearheaded by St. Joseph’s business manager, Deacon Nick Sherg.
In August of 2023 initial drawings were submitted and with input from the Diocese Building Committee and Deacon Sherg became in his words, “Honorary Project Manager.”
In January of 2024, planning was started
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH IN PLACENTIA HAS UNDERGONE SEVERAL INTERIOR RENOVATIONS. PHOTO BY STEVEN GEORGES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
on a larger interior church renovation, with construction beginning mid-April of that same year. The construction start date needed to coincide with a transition to the church hall for Masses.
According to Deacon Sherg, “many people were intimately involved in this project. Facilities coordinator, Max Montero, and administrative assistant, Henrietta Moreno were instrumental in keeping this project on track.”
Additionally, Deacon Tim Carver, who attends Mass at St. Joseph, served as the primary point of contact with the Diocese Building Committee.
According to Deacon Carver, there were many items in the church that were not working or in need of repair. Those items that were renovated or replaced included new carpet in the church and sanctuary, new paint throughout the church interior, sanding and varnishing the doors of the confessionals and restoring one confessional that was being used for storage. This confessional will now be used by retired priest in residency, Fr. Eamon O’Gorman. Other interior church work included pews and restoring the Tabernacle and altar candles, cleaning and wood polishing of the pews, and repairing the main Crucifix and image of the Our Lady of Guadalupe, completed by the artist Geo. Lighting additions NS improvements as well as sound system upgrades were also included.
“I give sincere gratitude to the parishioners at St. Joseph,” said Deacon Sherg, “who with their open hearts and generosity made this a reality. I am blessed to be at this parish.”
Fr. Martin spoke of many tiny “miracles” that occurred in order to complete this project in time for Christmas Eve Mass. Two “miracles” were significant and will forever be part of the history of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
The first such “miracle” involved the Crucifix and wood cross that were removed for restoration and the wall behind them was re-painted. Fr. Martin spoke with awe about this painting process.
FEATURE
“No matter how many coats of paint were added to this area, a shadow of the cross remained,” he said.
This became a source of parishioner interest and gave the community momentum heading into the final phases of completion.
The second “miracle” occurred once the renovation was complete and ready for final inspection. On Dec. 18, the city inspector visited the church for his final inspection.
He said the work was in order and he would give it a pass but would not sign off until the fire inspector inspected the sprinkler system, which happened on Dec. 19. Deacon Carver then raced to Placentia City Hall with the paperwork in order to complete the final steps which would allow for Christmas Eve Mass.
Deacon Carver was told that the city building inspector had left for the day and, with the holidays approaching, would not return until Jan. 6. A dejected Deacon Carver said a silent prayer while thinking of how he would inform Fr. Martin of the news.
But just as Deacon Carver left the building, the inspector returned, forgetting something in his office. Deacon Carver intercepted him and the inspector completed the documentation, and the Certificate of Occupancy was handed to Deacon Carver.
“I have been blessed immensely by working on this project and getting to know Fr. Martin,” said the deacon.
LIONS AND CHRISTIANS
Fr. Martin found it challenging to finish up the church renovations and also put the final touches on the rectory project. He recalled Fr. Eamon visiting him in the church at the height of some of these challenges.
“He asked, ‘Fr. Martin, who is winning the battle, the Lions or the Christians?’”
Recalling battles in the Colosseum, Fr. Martin replied, “The Lions are winning.”
Positive progress had finally begun when Fr. Eamon stopped by again and posed the same question.
Fr. Martin replied, “The Christians are winning some battles.”
Fr. Eamon replied, “Maybe the Lions are now Christians.” C
RENOVATIONS OF THE INTERIOR OF ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH IN PLACENTIA INCLUDED NEW CARPET IN THE CHURCH AND SANCTUARY, NEW PAINT THROUGHOUT THE INTERIOR AND CLEANING AND POLISHING THE WOODEN PEWS. PHOTOS COURTESY OF FR. MARTIN VU
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH’S STATUE OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE WAS CLEANED AND REPAIRED DURING THE CHURCH’S RENOVATION PROCESS.
MISSION BASILICA TO HOST ECUMENICAL SERVICE
BY BRADLEY ZINT
IN CONJUNCTION WITH the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Jan. 18 to 25), the Diocese of Orange is organizing an ecumenical service on Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. at Mission Basilica in San Juan Capistrano that will highlight reflections on God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the Church from different faiths and feature a mu -
sical performance.
Sponsored by the Very Rev. Alfred S. Baca, Episcopal Vicar for Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs, the free event also recognizes the 1,700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed — a unifying, defining statement of belief for greater Christianity, including the Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant and Lutheran denominations.
The concert portion will feature the locally based De Angelis Vocal Ensemble, led by Mathew Gray, with an evening of sacred music that celebrates the Nicene Creed. The ensemble’s members are Patrick Kohlieber, Natalie Van der Roest, Allison Albright, Stephanie Wright, Sarah-Nicole Carter, Jonathan Alvarado, Sam Miller and Eric Carter. The program includes “Exsultate justi in Domino” by Ludovico da Viadana, “St. Teresa’s Bookmark” by Louie L. White, “God Be in My Head” by John Rutter and the traditional Gregorian chant “Missa de Angelis.”
Guest speakers include Fr. Steve
Tsichlis of St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church (Irvine), Chorbishop Ashur Elkhoury of St. Paul Assyrian Church of the East (Anaheim), Fr. Kyrillos Ibrahim of the St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church (Irvine) and Very Rev. Alfred Baca of the Roman Catholic Church. Bishop Kevin Vann will express his gratitude and provide the closing prayer.
“Authentic ecumenism works toward a vision of the Church where in the essentials we are united, and in all non-essentials, charity and flexibility prevail,” said Fr. Baca. “In particular, the Catholic Church views the essentials as unity with the revealed dogmas of the Church and the recognized authority and ministry of the pope.
“Please join us as we give praise and honor to God for the Creed that unites us all in the Christian family. Invite your family and friends, especially those who are not Catholic. This free evening is for all believers in Christ to give thanks to God for His revelation of Himself to us, and His love for us and the Church.” C
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE
A DREAM REALIZED AT ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC SCHOOL
BY SJB SCHOOL STAFF
EARLY IN 2025, St. John the Baptist Catholic School will begin construction of its new gymnasium. The dynamic education center will be a place to gather for sports, performing arts and other events
and celebrations for the school and the parish. The “dream made reality” truly began to take shape with a huge gracefilled boost from Shea Family Charities.
“The planning process started over a year ago with numerous meetings and architectural drawings that helped us to see the vision,” said Fr. Damien, the
school's rector and spiritual guide. “Seeing the conceptual renderings has truly driven the message home to our faith community that this is really happening.”
The high-tech facility will provide the blossoming school community with increased accommodations for all the programming that helps its children to grow and flourish. The new gathering space will provide the parish with much needed room for all its expanding ministries as well. With the arrival of this exciting gathering space, St. John the
Baptist Catholic School and parish hopes to continue cultivating its enthusiastic service to God and His mission.
“We have dreamed of having a gym at SJB for a very long time,” said Principal Paula Viles. “This new addition to our campus will allow us to expand our educational programming, continue to provide our students with the opportunity to discover and cultivate their gifts and talents, and give us the capacity to gather our entire community in one place at one time. It’s a blessed gift from God.” C
SCHOOL WILL LOOK LIKE. COURTESY OF FR. DAMIEN GIAP
AROUND OUR DIOCESE
BY STAFF
CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS
Catholic Charities of Orange County (CCOC) made many families happy this holiday season through its Christmas Blessings program. Many generous individuals, organizations, parishes and schools sponsored families in need so that they could have gifts for Christmas. Donors shopped and wrapped gifts for the families they “adopted” this year. For several days in December, volunteers also helped out during the 2024 Christmas Blessings Gift Distribution program at the Christ Cathedral Cultural Center. Tireless CCOC volunteers and staff transported gifts from the third floor of the Cultural Center down to the lobby where they met and greeted the families. Gift distribution continued
FRONT, GUITARIST/SINGER, ALISSA ROSE; SINGERS: CHARLENE RAU, ELLEN WRIGHT, KRUIZER KELLEY, ROSEMARY LEWALLEN. BACK: KATHLEEN PRICE, JULIE VAN HAMERSVELD, SARAH GROSSI, MARY CUSEO AND DANIEL DATO-ON. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ST. IRENAEUS HEALTH MINISTRY MEMBERS
on Three Kings Day on Jan. 6 at the Cantlay Food Distribution Center.
To more about volunteer opportunities with OCCOC, visit https://ccoc. org/
CHRISTMAS GIVING TREE
The Health Ministry at St. Irenaeus parish (Cypress) spread the spirit of
Christmas to the residents and staff at the four local care centers it serves each week as part of its Care Center outreach program. Four Giving Tree Parties were held throughout the month of December. Residents of the centers received gift bags provided by St. Irenaeus parish ioners. Generous parishioners also donated funds online. Close to 400 gift bags were distributed to in-center residents and homebound parishioners. The Giving Tree Parties included singers, musicians and Santa.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE ON BUSINESS & ETHICS
The Orange Catholic Foundation (OCF) and Farmers & Merchants Bank are excited to announce that the beloved Sr. Johnellen Turner, O.P., will receive the F&M Lifetime Achievement Award at the 22nd annual Conference on Business & Ethics on March 19. With more than 50 years in Catholic education, including 17 at St. Catherine’s Academy in Anaheim, she embodies the Dominican mission to proclaim Jesus Christ.
Sr. Johnellen Turner will be recog-
nized alongside two other inspiring individuals who exemplify Catholic values in both their personal and professional lives. Stay tuned as OCF announces the 2025 Bishop’s Award for Exemplary Business Integrity honorees in the coming weeks! Don’t miss out on Orange County's premier breakfast event at the Hyatt Regency Irvine, proudly recognized by the Orange County Business Journal. Learn more at OrangeCatholicFoundation.org/CBE
11TH ANNUAL ONELIFE LA
On Saturday, Jan. 18, the Diocese’s Office of Life, Justice & Peace will join others from throughout Southern California to celebrate the 11th Annual OneLife LA. Register today as group, individual, or volunteer at onelifela.org
Plan your parish delegation to this Southern California celebration of life. The easiest way to arrive is by Metrolink or carpool. If your parish is interested in bringing a group on a bus and need financial assistance, please contact Fr. Greg Walgenbach at gwalgenbach@rcbo.org or
GINA CROFTS, WITH CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF ORANGE COUNTY, LEFT, AND AITANA PEREZ, 6, PICK OUT A GIFT FOR HER BROTHER DURING THE CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS DISTRIBUTION DAY AT THE CULTURAL CENTER ON MONDAY, DEC. 16, 2024. PHOTO BY SCOTT SMELTZER/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
SR. JOHNELLEN TURNER, O.P., RIGHT, IS PICTURED WITH SR. BRID O’SHEA , R.S.C. AND BISHOP KEVIN VANN. PHOTO COURTESY OF JOAN PATTEN
(714) 282-3058.
PILGRIMAGE TO VIETNAM
The OLLV Foundation recently joined with Fr. Bill Cao and St. Anthony Claret
who currently resides in Vietnam, many historic sites were visited, making the trip a success for many as it marked their first visit to Vietnam and Asia.
Joining the pilgrimage were dedicated committee members, the Marian Gardens architect and his wife, and Fr. Chris Pham.
As a nonprofit rooted in faith, the OLLV Foundation is committed to inspiring devotion, preserving Catholic
traditions, and strengthening diverse communities. Through cultural preservation, education, and charitable outreach, we strive to bring people closer to Christ through Mary. The foundation continues its fundraising efforts to support community projects and spiritual initiatives, making a meaningful impact through faith and service.
To learn more, visit OLLVFoundation.org C
To report sexual abuse by clergy or church personnel please call: 1 (800) 364-3064
Healing and Hope After Abortion: 1 (800) 722-4356
New Hope Peer-to-Peer Support Line | Mon - Fri 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM | Sat - Sun 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM: 1 (714) NEW-HOPE or 1 (714) 639-4673
BÁO CÁO LẠM DỤNG TÌNH DỤC Nếu bạn là nạn nhân bị lạm dụng tình dục bởi một linh mục/ tu sĩ hay một thành viên trong Giáo Hội gây ra, xin hãy gọi và báo cáo cho Giáo phận ở số điện thoại miễn phí sau đây: 1-800-364-3064, và đồng thời báo cáo cho nhà chức trách địa phương.
parish on a pilgrimage to Vietnam, which included a visit to the original shrine of Our Lady of La Vang and concluded with a Mass honoring the Vietnamese martyrs in northern Vietnam. With the leadership of Brother Rufino Zaragoza, OFM,
본당내의 성적학대 신고 성직자나 성당 사목을 대표하는 관리자에
WHEN DOES CHRISTMAS END?
BY REBEKAH VALDERRAMA
IN A WORLD OF "Happy Holidays,” it's more important than ever to own and reclaim the Christmas season! You probably know that Christmas doesn't start until Dec. 25. But when does it end? Here's a quick rundown of some fun Christmastide facts.
WHEN DOES CHRISTMAS START?
This one is not common knowledge to many outside the Catholic Church. The Christmas season does not begin until Dec. 25. Or, more precisely, until First Vespers of Christmas Eve. Before then, while the world is shopping and listening to Mariah Carey, we're still celebrating the preparatory season of Advent, which started four Sundays before Christmas Day.
THE OCTAVE OF CHRISTMAS
From the Solemnity of the Nativity on Dec. 25, to the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God on Jan. 1, is the extended celebration of the Octave of Christmas. This week-long celebration is how the Church commemorates her highest holy days. (Easter has its own octave as well.)
After not hearing the “Gloria” said at Mass throughout all of Advent, we now hear it every single day for eight days. The Octave of Christmas also includes the Feast of the Holy Family on the Sunday after Christmas. (Or when Christmas is on a Sunday, on Dec. 30 instead.)
Jan. 1, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, is a holy day of obligation, unless it falls on a Saturday or Monday, or if it's been dispensed by the local bishop, which is what happened this year.
THE
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
Five... golden... rings!
There's a popular misconception in secular culture that the famous "12 Days of Christmas" refers to the 12 days leading up to Christmas day. But this is incorrect.
These 12 days, count them, span the period of time between Christmas Day and the Solemnity of the Epiphany on Jan. 6. This is the extent of the Christmas season in the Anglican and related traditions, hence the popular English carol.
EPIPHANY
I just said that the Solemnity of the Epiphany is on Jan. 6, but that's not usually true, at least not in the U.S. Since 1970, the Epiphany is celebrated on the Sunday that falls between Jan. 2-8, so no one will have to miss it.
The Epiphany liturgy also includes an optional chant by the deacon announcing the dates of Easter and other movable feasts during the liturgical calendar. This
THE PRESENTATION
You may have heard that Christmas was "traditionally" celebrated all the way until the Feast of the Presentation (also known as "Candlemas") on Feb. 2. Indeed in the Vatican, at St. Peter's Square, the manger scene opens on Christmas Eve and stays up for 40 days, being removed right after Feb. 2. So, if you need an excuse to give you extra time to take down your Christmas decorations, then feel free to use it.
CHRISTMAS MATH
Since no one asked, I went ahead and did the math to let you know that the Christmas season is longest (20 days) when the Nativity falls on a Tuesday, and shortest (15 days) when it falls on a Monday. Monday also features the shortest Advent, which is a bummer. I think I'll be using the Presentation loophole the next time that happens in 2028-29. For now, for the last time this liturgical year, let me wish you a Merry Christmas! C
"Noveritis" proclamation dates from a time before you could easily Google search "when is Easter this year.” I love that kind of thing.
BAPTISM OF THE LORD
Spoiler: this is the answer to the question I asked at the top.
The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord comes on the Sunday after Epiphany and is the last day of the liturgical Christmas season. It's the last day that the priest wears white; tomorrow, he'll be in green for Monday of the first week of Ordinary Time. (Notice that there's no first Sunday in Ordinary Time!)
In years when the Epiphany falls on Jan. 7 or 8, (when Christmas lands on a Monday or Sunday) then the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord is observed on Monday Jan. 8 or 9, and instead of being the last day of Christmas, it's the first day of Ordinary Time.
Then the Christmas season is officially over. Unless...
PHOTO BY ELENA MOZHVILO ON UNSPLASH
OC Catholic Afar
Dr. Elysabeth Nguyen, CEO of the OLLV Foundation, recently visited Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The cathedral was severely damaged by fire in April of 2019, and was just re-opened to the public this December, after years of restoration work.
We want your photos! Send your pictures of “OC Catholic Afar” — of you, family or friends visiting Catholic churches and other interesting places — to editor@occatholic.com. Please include a brief description of the photo, the name of the person(s) featured in the photo and their home parish.
