OC CATHOLIC - JUNE 25, 2023 by OCCatholic

JUNE 25, 2023

MARIAN DAYS PREVIEW

PAGE 10

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF ORANGE ■ OCCATHOLIC.COM

THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE WELCOMES THREE NEW PRIESTS PICTURED AT THIS YEAR’S PRIESTLY ORDINATION CELEBRATED ON JUNE 10 AT CHRIST CATHEDRAL: FR. BAO THAI, RECTOR OF CHRIST CATHEDRAL, FR. ANGELOS SEBASTIAN, THE DIOCESE’S VICAR GENERAL AND MODERATOR OF THE CURIA, AUXILIARY BISHOP THANH THAI NGUYEN, FR. IAN GASTON, FR. DAVID MORENO, BISHOP KEVIN VANN, FR. BENJAMIN NGUYEN, AUXILIARY BISHOP TIMOTHY FREYER, BISHOP EMERITUS TOD BROWN AND FR. BRANDON DANG, DIRECTOR OF VOCATIONS FOR THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE. PHOTO BY DREW KELLEY/DIOCESE OF ORANGE

BISHOP’S COLUMN

A LETTER FROM BISHOP KEVIN VANN

EAR FRIENDS IN THE Lord, I have returned to Mt. Angel Abbey and Seminary near Portland, Oregon. Mt. Angel is situated in the beauty of the Cascade range of mountains. The Cascades are all volcanic in origin and are all still covered with snow. On a clear day from the Refectory one can see Mount Hood, Mt. Rainer, Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens. In addition to the slopes of the mountains, the Seminary is covered with pine trees and flowers, echoing still the month of May which is dedicated to Mary the Mother of God. The beauty of nature here is also complimented by the beauty of the Abbey Church, where I am blessed to be able to pray daily the Liturgy of the Hours with the Monks. I am here to complete my final courses toward my Doctorate in Ministry. This summer my course work over these three weeks includes: “Evil, Suffering, and Thinking about God: Theological and Literary Reflections”; “Pastoral Counseling”; and “The Book of the Prophet Isaiah.” This is my third and final summer and the courses of the past two years have been a great blessing to me pastorally and academically. I hope to finish my dissertation in the coming year to be able to graduate next spring. Thank you all for your support and the generosity of the witness of your Faith. A very blessed month of June, which for many years has been dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. I will be writing a reflection on that in the days to come! Gratefully yours in the Lord, Bishop Kevin Vann C MT. HOOD. PHOTO BY CALEB JACK

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JUNE 25, 2023

CONTENTS

7 GOD’S HOLY WILL 8 THE BLESSING OF THE ARTISTS 10 EXTENDING THEIR MISSION

God’s gift of free will allows us to choose His grace every day.

Laguna Beach’s famous art community honors its culture with this annual tradition. The Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse in Orange is taking on a new aspect as affordable senior housing.

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: Monsignor Stephen Doktorczyk 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.

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BISHOP’S CORNER

Shepherding God’s Flock ENJOY PHOTOS OF BISHOP KEVIN VANN LEADING WITH LOVE THROUGHOUT OUR DIOCESE.

On June 3, Bishop Vann participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new offices and rectory at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church (Delhi) in Santa Ana. CONTINUES ON PAGE 17

The Diocese of Orange, through OC Catholic newspaper, presents local, national and world news about the Catholic Church. Our intention is to give our readers access to a variety of perspectives in order to help them to process the information within the framework of our Catholic faith, but also to better understand the perspectives of those with opposing viewpoints. We hope that ultimately our readers will be better equipped to have constructive conversations that further the growth of the Catholic Church.

ST. JOHN’S SEMINARY CAMARILLO, CALIFORNIA

ST. JOHN’S SEMINARY NOW OFFERS AN ONLINE M.A. IN PASTORAL MINISTRY PROGRAM FOR THE LAITY This program will help lay ministers increase their knowledge of the Catholic intellectual tradition and improve their ministerial skills for the life of the Church. Students will be prepared to work in different areas of ministry and make professional and personal connections with others of the same mind and spirit.

For more information Email: mapm@stjohnsem.edu or visit www.stjohnsem.edu

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Watch a brief video about the program

A studio with professional video, audio, and lighting equipment has been built to produce visually stunning content by our world-class faculty. This studio allows our students to have an enjoyable technological experience.

DAILY READINGS AND REFLECTIONS

ART ON CAMPUS

“

Darkness puts us in crisis; but the problem lies in how we manage this crisis

”

— Pope Francis

SAINT PROFILE

JOSEMARIA ESCRIVA DE BALAGUER

ORN IN BARBASTRO, Spain, Josemaria was ordained a priest in 1925. In 1928, he founded Opus Dei, Latin for “God’s work,” as an apostolate in the ordinary circumstances of life, especially work, focusing on the universal call to holiness. It includes laypeople, priests and seminarians. Msgr. Escriva died in 1975 in Rome, where he had lived, directing the international organization, since 1946. In 1982 Opus Dei was given the status of a personal prelature, the equivalent of a nonterritorial diocese. Its founder was beatified in 1992 and canonized in 2002.

“C

oming Home – The Prodigal Son” by De L’Esprie, 2001. A gift of Jody and Dick Parker and Jo and Bond. Located by the Tower of Hope. Photo by Joshua SudockC

READINGS FOR THE WEEK

PHOTOS: CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE, SHUTTERSTOCK

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

GN 12:1-9; PS 33:12-13, 18-19, 20 AND 22; MT 7:1-5

GN 13:2, 5-18; PS 15:2-3A, 3BC4AB, 5; MT 7:6, 12-14

GN 15:1-12, 17-18; PS 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9; MT 7:15-20

ACTS 12:1-11; 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9; 2 TM 4:6-8, 17-18; MT 16:13-19

GN 17:1, 9-10, 1522; 128:1-2, 3, 4-5; MT 8:1-4

GN 18:1-15; LUKE 1:46-47, 48-49, 50 AND 53, 54-55; MT 8:5-17

2 KGS 4:8-11, 1416A; PS 89:2-3, 16-17, 18-19; ROM 6:3-4, 8-11; MT 10:37-42

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FEATURE

THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE WELCOMES THREE NEW PRIESTS BY PATTY MAHONEY

ISHOP KEVIN VANN ordained three new priests on June 10, as our Diocese of Orange prayed together in unity. The Ordination Mass, which is the sacramental ceremony in which a man becomes a priest, was celebrated at Christ Cathedral. Fr. Ian Gaston, Fr. David Moreno and Fr. Benjamin Nguyen were all ordained priests as clergy, religious, family and friends witnessed the occasion. It was truly a day of faith and of family. “After many years of thinking, praying with you and probably wondering if the day would ever get here,” said Bishop Vann, “Well, you’ve made it. The Lord has brought us to this day.” The candidates chose John 21 for their Gospel reading, which coincidentally is the same Gospel reading Bishop Vann chose for his own ordination which was celebrated on May 30, 1981. The chapter recounts Jesus appearing to His seven disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. It was the third time Jesus had revealed Himself following His resurrection. When it was already dawn, Jesus was standing on the shore; but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, have you caught anything to eat?” They answered him, “No.” So he said to them, “Cast the net over the right side of the boat and you will find something.” So they cast it, and were not able to pull it in because of the number of fish. (John 21:4-6) Bishop Vann brought along three of his own Ordination cards and gave them to the three candidates during the Mass. During his homily, Bishop Vann touched on several important themes of the day. The first: The Constant Yes.

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AUXILIARY BISHOP THANH THAI NGUYEN, FR. IAN GASTON, FR. DAVID MORENO, BISHOP KEVIN VANN, FR. BENJAMIN NGUYEN, AUXILIARY BISHOP TIMOTHY FREYER AND BISHOP EMERITUS TOD BROWN ARE PICTURED AT THIS YEAR’S PRIESTLY ORDINATION CELEBRATED ON JUNE 10 AT CHRIST CATHEDRAL. PHOTOS BY DREW KELLEY/DIOCESE OF ORANGE

FR. IAN GASTON

Assignment: St. Irenaeus in Cypress Fr. Ian was born in Virginia and raised here in Orange County. He graduated from Servite High School and studied at college for two years before transferring to the seminary. Favorite Food: Italian Favorite Hobby: Hiking Favorite T.V. Show: “The Chosen” FR. IAN GASTON FR. DAVID MORENO FR. BENJAMIN NGUYEN Favorite Bible Verse: “In many and various ways, God “The relationship of love that you have happens.” spoke to our Fathers through with the Lord requires our yes, each day,” The third: To Bless God. the Prophets but now He’s spoken stated Bishop Vann. “And our yes with “Never forget to bless God all the days through Christ His son.” (A Letter to the love.” of your lives of your priestly ministry, Hebrews) The second: Miracles. even beyond your formal prayers,” said Fun Fact: Apparently, I do a good “I know and priests will tell you this,” Bishop Vann. chimpanzee impression. said Bishop Vann, “You will find major Our Diocese of Orange family prays First Heard a Calling to the Priestand minor miracles in your lives and for newly ordained Fathers Ian, David hood? At age 17 as a senior in high ministries when you least expect it and and Ben. May God grant them continued school. when you most need it.” wisdom and strength of mind, body and Why Did You Become a Priest? If “May your hearts and eyes be open to heart. God was asking me to be a priest, then it see and find what I call, when God winks Get to know the new priests of our was good for me. at you. Never be surprised when that Diocese! CONTINUES ON PAGE 7

FEATURE / CATHOLIC FAMILY LIVING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

FR. DAVID MORENO

Assignment: Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove Fr. David was born in Mexico and came to Orange County five years ago. He’s the youngest in his family. Favorite Food: Seafood Favorite Hobby: Karaoke Favorite Movie: “Meet Joe Black” Fun Fact: I’m the first one to come to a party and the last one to leave. First Felt a Calling to the Priesthood? There were many moments. As a child, I first felt something. Later as I was older and working, I realized I was called to be a priest. So, I quit my job and went into Formation. Goal and Dream for the Church? My goal and dream for the Church is the goal and dream of Jesus Christ. I hope everybody feels the Love of and mercy of Jesus Christ in their lives.

FR. BENJAMIN NGUYEN

Assignment: St. Kilian in Mission Viejo Fr. Ben was born in Vietnam. He and his family moved to the U.S., and he grew up in Garden Grove, Orange and Santa Ana. He graduated from Cal State Long Beach with a degree in social work and was employed by the county of Orange for almost 11 years. Favorite Food: Pho and sushi Favorite Hobby: Watching movies and also watching sunsets. Favorite Movie: “The Pursuit of Happyness” First Felt Calling to the Priesthood? In 2014, on the second Sunday of Easter, I felt the call to the priesthood. Goal for the Church? I dream about a Church where people will fall in love with the Eucharist, and I hope that I can help people to become a community of faith. C

GOD’S HOLY WILL BY DANIELLE TAYABAS

HEN GOD CREATED mankind in His image and likeness, He fashioned and made us out of the generosity of His merciful love and gave us a most treasured gift: free will. He imparts to all of humanity the power and freedom to choose the good in charity. In addition, God grants us the grace to choose to do what is good, holy, loving and life giving according to His divine will. God provides all that we need for our eternal salvation, though, with and in Christ Jesus, so that we may be united to Him for all eternity in heaven. Heaven is our goal. We can also make choices that are bad for us and opposed to God’s will. We can wander far from the path of holiness and live a mortally sinful life of disobedience, self-destruction, and spiritual death which separates our soul from God. In such a state, if we continue to spurn God’s love, reject His mercy and do not repent, we could end up in eternal perdition. Hell is not our goal, but it is a possibility for each of us. Whether we choose to do the will of God or not, our decisions and actions will have an effect not only in our lives but in the lives of others. We will either (a) follow the Lord, receive His grace and commune with Him more deeply by doing His holy will, which is always efficacious for our souls, and edifying for others; or (b) we will turn from the Lord, following our own selfish

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE LEBLANC

designs and sinful inclinations, doing detriment to our souls and wounding the souls of others. How we influence and affect one another for good or for bad is one of the mysteries of being a part of the human family, as well as a part of the mystical Body and Bride of Christ. Each of Christ’s baptized members have a moral obligation, a tremendous accountability and a holy responsibility before God and for the benefit of the human family. It is crucial that we fulfill God’s holy will. It is a life-or-death situation that can have eternal blessings leading us towards heaven or eternal consequences leading us towards hell. Jesus says to each of us: “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you” (John 6:53). And again: “My food is to do the will of the one who sent me and to finish his work” (John 4:34).

Jesus invites us into a profound and personal relationship with Himself so that we can enter into an intimate union with our Heavenly Father and be fed and nourished by His holy will. It is God’s will that we receive the Body and Blood of Christ in Holy Communion worthily. If we receive Him worthily and well, we will participate in the merciful work of His redemptive mission for the salvation of souls. It is our Heavenly Father’s will that all of mankind be baptized and partake of the Sacraments of the Catholic Church, which possesses the fullness of the faith (Vatican II, Lumen Gentium 7). As Jesus says: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Mathew 28:19). It is therefore the sublime duty and heroic mission of all Catholics to evangelize our families, friends, workplaces, communities and the world according to our state in life. “For this is the will of my Father, that all who see the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him [on] the last day” (John 6:40).C

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FEATURE

THE BLESSING OF THE ARTISTS BY LOU PONSI

The love and gratitude go deep “for all the incredible artists who live, work and who share their life here,” the pastor said. Keegan used her time at the podium to recite a poem written recently by Monica Gunning, a Jamaican poet and children’s book author living in Laguna Beach. Gunning, who is 93, had attended Mass at St. Catherine that morning, but wasn’t feeling well enough to attend the Blessing of the Artists ceremony, Keegan said. Titled “Art and Artists,” Gunning’s poem, as recited by Keegan, praised the contributions of artists for the beauty they bring to the world. “Art, the epitome of human creativity, delights the senses and brings limitless joys to human hearts,” Keegan recited. “What would the world be without art?

HE “BLESSING OF THE Artists,” an annual tradition in the coastal community of Laguna Beach – famous for its art festivals, galleries, music and film festivals and home to a considerable number of artists – returned this year to the church where it began. A congregation of roughly 75 artists and supporters of the arts attended the multi-denominational ceremony, which took place at St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church in Laguna Beach on June 4. Faith leaders from around Laguna Beach bestowed their blessings and shared sentiments on the contributions of artists and how the art in the community enriches their lives. FR. PAT RUDOLPH, PASTOR OF ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA CATHOLIC CHURCH, SPEAKS DURING THE BLESSING OF CONTINUES ON PAGE 9 THE ARTISTS ON JUNE 4. PHOTOS BY IAN TRAN/DIOCESE OF ORANGE Religious leaders who participated included Fr. Pat Rudolph, pastor of St. Catherine of Siena, Bishop Spencer Samuelian of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Laguna Beach, Pastor Jay Grant of Net-Works Community Church, Pastor Rod Echols of the Neighborhood Congregational Church and Pastor Jeff Tacklind of Little Church by the Sea. Local artists who shared from the podium were Hedy Buzan, Elizabeth McGhee and Theresa Keegan. The Blessing of the Artists started in the late 1990s at Saint Catherine and was held at that church every year until the coronavirus forced the cancelation of the 2020 event. Net-Works Community Church hosted the ceremony 2021, followed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2022. “May I say how refreshing is to be back here at St. Catherine of Siena Church where the Blessing of the Artists started and where every year we met here up until COVID,” Pastor Grant said. “It THE BLESSING OF THE ARTISTS IS AN ANNUAL TRADITION IN LAGUNA BEACH. truly feels like home for this event.”

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FEATURE

ARTISTS GATHER FOR A RECEPTION FOLLOWING A SPECIAL CEREMONY HELD AT ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA CATHOLIC CHURCH IN LAGUNA BEACH. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

A dark dreary planet devoid of masterpieces that elevate the spirit of human kindness … God himself was the first artist. ‘Let there be light He commanded’ … Kudos also belong to our own artists, seasoned and new artists who display their artistic talent year after year … Their art exhibitions astound and enrich hearts and minds with awe inspiring, superb displays and all executed by our esteemed artists right here in Laguna Beach.” Buzan, a native of Laguna Beach who comes from a family of artists, discussed the changes to her mindset and approach to her art after introducing prayer into her work. The painter even wrote her own prayer and posted it in her studio. Buzan reads the prayer every time she enters her workspace. “It doesn’t guarantee perfect work, but it puts another dimension into what I’m

doing when I go into my studio,” Buzan said. “I’m going on a journey with my creator. So, this brings me to my newest awareness on prayer, that it can be just gratitude, gratitude for being present on earth and having God present in my life.” The idea for the Blessing of the Artists was hatched from a conversation between Rev. Msgr. John Urell, pastor of St. Catherine’s from 1997 to 2000, and artist Anne England, a parishioner and longtime advocate for the art community up until her death in 2018. Msgr. Urell pointed out to England that St. Catherine’s had many parishioners who were artists and blessing them just prior to the start of the summer art festival season would be a wonderful gesture. England loved the idea and suggested broadening the reach and hosting a blessing for all the artists in Laguna Beach. In the early years, some artists

A CONGREGATION OF ABOUT 75 ARTISTS AND SUPPORTERS OF THE ARTS ATTENDED THE MULTI-DENOMINATIONAL CEREMONY ON JUNE 4.

brought their brushes and other tools to be blessed. McGhee talked about the influence England had on her career as an artist. “She was a helper, like so many of us try to be,” said McGhee who has exhibited her art at the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach for years. “As artists, we

sometimes pride ourselves on our independence and self-sufficiency. Admitting we need help can feel like an admission of failure. But Anne taught me that is not true. Asking for help when I need it lets the other helpers do what they want to do … help. So, ask for help. Offer help. It can’t hurt. It might help.”C

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FEATURE

EXTENDING THEIR MISSION SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH homelessness. Mayor Slater had this to say: MOTHERHOUSE TO BE “Orange is so blessed to have the TRANSFORMED INTO sisters in our community. Their lega“VILLA ST. JOSEPH” – cy, their tradition in our city is so long and it’s something that the whole city A NEW AFFORDABLE appreciates. They always step up to help HOUSING the most vulnerable in our community and the fact that they’re stepping up to COMMUNITY FOR affordable housing to seniors and SENIORS, HOMELESS provide 18 units for homeless seniors, that is re-

ally impressive. That’s a huge issue in our city right now, it’s a huge issue in every city but in Orange, thanks to the sisters OME MAY CALL IT a “new we are having solutions to that…we’re mission,” but it really isn’t one, ac- so thankful to you and for the partners cording to Sr. Mary Beth Ingham, you’ve assembled.” General Superior of the Sisters of Major investors include $16.3 million St. Joseph of Orange of her order trans- from UnitedHealth Group, and loans of forming their former Motherhouse into $7.7 million from the City and County TAMI ADAMS, CEO OF UNITEDHEALTHCARE OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, SR. MARY BETH INGHAM, GENERAL SUPERIOR OF THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF ORANGE AND DOUG SHOEMAKER, CEO OF MERCY HOUSING, an affordable housing community. of Orange, $5.6 million from the State SHARE A FUNNY MOMENT DURING A SPECIAL HARD HAT TOUR OF THE FUTURE VILLA ST. JOSEPH ON JUNE 6. “It’s the mission we’ve always had CONTINUES ON PAGE 11 PHOTO BY KRISTIAN CARREON since our foundation,” she said. “And that is to find the need, to find the people and work together to meet those needs.” Eleven years ago, the sisters took a serious look at the use of the buildings on their property of 100 years — 11 acres in the city of Orange — and asked themselves how could the Motherhouse building continue to be of use to the most vulnerable in the community. Active sisters now live in community-owned houses throughout the Diocese while retired sisters live at Regina Residence on campus, a convent for some who need assisted living. The order then joined forces with affordable housing nonprofit Mercy Housing California (MHC), an institution they helped found — and started planning. And now, with support from Mayor Dan Slater, the city and other investors, a $37 million development is currently under construction to turn their former Batavia Street home into 50 new apartment style homes with on-site supportive services. Eighteen of the apartments THE FORMER BATAVIA STREET MOTHERHOUSE OF THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF ORANGE IS CURRENTLY UNDERGOING A $37 MILLION CONSTRUCTION RE-DEVELOPMENT. PHOTO BY PATTY MAHONEY will be reserved for seniors impacted by BY PATTY MAHONEY

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FEATURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

of California, and $5.7 million from the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange. The existing structure, which was built in 1958, is being reconfigured to include 43 one-bedroom, 6 studios, and 1 two-bedroom staff unit. Additionally, there will be a community room with kitchen, laundry and terrace; bike and storage rooms; and an outdoor space featuring seating and gardens for residents to enjoy as a community. A hard hat tour of the property in mid-construction phase and briefing for civic leaders and project partners was held earlier this month. The projected date of completion for Villa St. Joseph is spring 2024, but the June 6 tour was a time for those involved to see their decade-long idea finally begin to come to

fruition. Walking the space she used to call home was nostalgic for Sr. Mary Beth, especially when she found what was once her room in the 1970s. She recalled what life used to be like as a young sister living at the Motherhouse as she took in the view from her once-bedroom window. But the tone in her voice wasn’t one of melancholy – it was one of excitement. “It’s just a wonderful day,” she said. “We’ve turned a corner from planning to action and things are moving ahead. “The sisters are very excited to share their home, a place they love, with those who are most in need, those people who have no home, have no place to lay their THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF ORANGE ARE PICTURED IN FRONT OF THEIR MOTHERHOUSE ON BATAVIA STREET IN 1975. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF ORANGE head.” C

SR. MARY BETH RECALLS WHAT LIFE USED TO BE LIKE AS A YOUNG SISTER LIVING AT THE MOTHERHOUSE AS SHE TAKES IN THE VIEW FROM HER ONCE-BEDROOM WINDOW. PHOTO BY KRISTIAN CARREON

A HARD HAT TOUR AND BRIEFING OF THE FUTURE VILLA ST. JOSEPH APARTMENTS WAS HELD ON JUNE 6. PHOTO BY KRISTIAN CARREON J U N E 2 5 , 2 0 2 3 ■ O C C A T H O L I C

DIOCESAN NEWS

MARIAN DAYS 2023 DIOCESE OF ORANGE TO HOST TWO-DAY CELEBRATION BY BRADLEY ZINT

HE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE of Orange will host its second annual Marian Days on July 14 and 15, a celebration centered around Christ Cathedral’s Our Lady of La Vang Shrine that has quickly become the largest event of its kind on the West Coast. Over two days, the 34-acre cathedral campus will draw as many as 20,000 of the faithful from around the region and the country for a festival-like environment of outdoor Masses, a procession onto the streets, workshops, dancing, live music and entertainment. Marian Days 2023 has a “With Mary, We Journey” theme, reflecting the central role of the Virgin Mary in the Catholic faith. There will also be tie-ins to the National Eucharistic Revival, a three-year grassroots effort called by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for a revival of devotion and belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Speakers and Masses will be in both Vietnamese and English. Youth activities are also planned. “Participants will truly walk together in faith at Marian Days through celebrating Mass, hearing the keynote speakers and visiting our magnificent Our Lady of La Vang Shrine,” said Bishop Kevin Vann. “We invite the whole People of God to walk together to discern the Lord’s will for his Church, and we are called to journey together with Mary in this process. We go forth with her to live and share the Good News with others.” The festivities on Friday, July 14 start at 5:30 p.m. The celebrant of the opening Mass at 7:30 p.m. is Bishop Oscar Cantú of the Diocese of San Jose. Live entertainment

and a taizé prayer follow at 9 p.m. Saturday, July 15 starts with a Healing Mass, with Bishop Thanh Thai Nguyen as the celebrant. A Marian procession will take place from approximately 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with as many as 8,000 expected to descend onto Chapman Avenue, toward Lewis Street and circle back onto the campus. The final Mass, with Bishop Thanh and Bishop Vann, starts at 7 p.m. The Diocese of Orange’s Marian Days was modeled after the annual Marian Days of Carthage, Missouri. That pilgrimage-style festival has been in place since 1978, drawing tens of thousands of attendees, particularly Vietnamese Catholics, to the Midwest A SCENE FROM MARIAN DAYS, 2022. PHOTO BY JOSHUA SUDOCK/DIOCESE OF ORANGE to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary. The inaugural Diocese of Orange Marian Days in 2022 drew an estimated 15,000 people over two days. Compared to last year, this year’s Marian Days will have even more of a focus around the Our Lady of La Vang Shrine. This is because of the high attendance expected; the plaza fronting the shrine can accommodate more than 15,000 people, compared to around 2,100 seated inside Christ Cathedral. Even the numbers of people making Marian Days happen is high: 1,500 volunteers, 1,000 singers, a full orchestra, and more than 200 dancers. Since its blessing in 2021, the Our Lady of La Vang Shrine has been a major source of reverence, joy and inspiration to Christ Cathedral campus visitors. The shrine hosts monthly Masses and other observances, particularly for Orange County’s large Vietnamese Catholic community. The shrine’s centerpiece is a 12-foot-tall Virgin Mary statue depicting how the Blessed Mother is believed to have appeared before a group of persecuted Vietnamese Catholics in 1798 in a rainforest of Vietnam. Admission to Marian Days is free. For a complete schedule of events, please visit http://melavang-oc.org Attendees are being asked to park off-campus and take shuttles from one of seven sites. Visit the Marian Days website A YOUNG GIRL TAKES PART IN THE 2022 MARIAN DAYS CELEBRATION AT CHRIST CATHEDRAL CAMPUS. PHOTO BY MARISA TRUJILLO/DIOCESE OF ORANGE for more details and locations. C

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DIOCESAN NEWS

AROUND OUR DIOCESE

campaign. The Knights’ wheelchair program at St. Irenaeus began in 2013, and since then parish donations have purchased more than 1,500 wheelchairs for veterans. -Submitted by Irv Cuevas

BY STAFF

WELLS OF LIFE

On June 7, the Diocese of Orange welcomed The Honorable Charles Peter Mayiga, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Buganda, and the Prince of Buganda, David Kintu Wasajja to the Christ Cathedral Campus. Both guests, who share the Catholic faith, were in town to personally express their gratitude to the fellow Catholics of Orange County for their unwavering support of the “Wells of Life,” a non-profit Christian organization whose mission is to provide rural Ugandans access to safe, clean water. During their visit, they were treated to a tour of the campus, leaving the Prime Minister in awe as he remarked, “I am blown away by the cathedral, the organ, the organist and everybody else here. How magnificent this church is, it’s not like something you see every day.” OC Catholic featured a story on Wells of Life: https://www.occatholic.com/ wells-for-life/

DIOCESE OF ORANGE OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS RECOGNIZED BY CATHOLIC MEDIA ASSOCIATION

THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE WELCOMED HONORED GUESTS TO THE CAMPUS ON JUNE 7. PHOTO BY SHAY RYAN

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL 8599 HELD ITS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND WHEELCHAIR CAMPAIGN AT ST. IRENAEUS PARISH IN CYPRESS. PHOTO COURTESY OF IRV CUEVAS

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS WHEELCHAIR PROGRAM AT ST. IRENAEUS

The Office of Communications was recently recognized in a national contest for content that promotes the Diocese. Judges on behalf of the Catholic Media Association honored the team with seven Catholic Press Awards for its social media, videos, podcasts, digital work and Orange County Catholic newspaper. Five of the awards were first-place wins, including Social Media Professional of the Year for Shay Ryan, the Diocese’s digital, brand and marketing manager. OC Catholic was recognized in the following category: Best Print Special Supplement — OneTime Special Issue — 2nd Place Orange County Catholic, “The Return of an Icon: Hazel is Back” — Patricia Mahoney, Editor; Msgr. Stephen Doktorczyk, Executive Editor; The Most Reverend Kevin W. Vann, Bishop of Orange, Publisher. C

As part of the annual Knights of Columbus Council 8599 annual Memorial Day Weekend campaign, St. Irenaeus parishioners, friends and neighbors generously contributed just over $22,000, sufficient to purchase 125 wheelchairs to be donated to military veterans in the area. “This is an excellent and rewarding example of spirituality,” said Grand Knight Rick Tkach, “helping those in need, and at the same time thanking veterans for their service to our country”. Tkach also extended thanks A SPECIAL ISSUE ON THE HAZEL WRIGHT ORGAN WAS RECENTLY to the 20 Knights who led the HONORED IN A NATIONWIDE PRESS AWARDS CONTEST. J U N E 2 5 , 2 0 2 3 ■ O C C A T H O L I C

FEATURE

STANDING UP FOR RELIGIOUS SISTERS BY MEG WATERS

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IVING THE TRUTH in Love” is easier said than done, especially when one is angry, hurt, or insulted. But as St. Paul states in Ephesians 4:1516, “It brings about the body’s growth and builds itself up in love.” This growth is not just personal; the apostle talks about all of us – the entire Body of Christ, including the people we love most dearly and those with whom we constantly clash. So, when the Dodgers Baseball Management announced an on-again, off-again and then on-again community award to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a group that mocks the Catholic faith and, in particular religious sisters, many Catholics were outraged. The outrage was directed as what Catholics and other people of good will perceive to be demeaning towards the tens of thousands of religious sisters serving in the United States. The outrage was not directed in any way against those who experience same-sex attraction. In fact, the Catholic Church authentically accompanies them by means of Courage ministry. The Dodgers invited the group to receive the award at the 10th annual LGBTQ+ Pride Night on June 16. The question for Catholics was then how to respond in truth and love. For some, the response was a peaceful boycott and prayerful demonstration. More than 1,000 gathered in the Dodger parking lot before the game to protest the award. Many Catholic bloggers across the country and activists expressed outrage and disappointment. And there was a movement by Catholic radio encouraging baseball fans not to

attend the game. Los Angeles Archbishop José Gomez, along with Archbishop Timothy Broglio, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and head of the Archdiocese for Military Service, USA, and Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, asked Catholics to confront this blasphemy with our most potent weapon – prayer. It did not escape notice that the event occurred on June 16, the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, 19 days after Pentecost, to celebrate Jesus’ divine love for humanity. We are reminded that despite our savior’s humiliation, scorn and ultimate death, He continues to embrace our fallen nature with His love. “This year, on June 16 — the day of the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus — a professional baseball team has shockingly chosen to honor a group whose lewdness and vulgarity in mocking Our Lord, his Mother, and conCONTINUES ON PAGE 15

A MAN KNEELS BEFORE THE CRUCIFIX TO PRAY PRIOR TO A JUNE 16 MASS CELEBRATED AT THE CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY QUEEN OF THE ANGELS. PHOTOS BY RENNE ENRIQUEZ/DIOCESE OF ORANGE

PROTESTORS GATHER OUTSIDE DODGER STADIUM ON JUNE 16 IN RESPONSE TO THE ORGANIZATION BESTOWING THE SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE WITH A COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD.

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FEATURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

secrated women cannot be overstated. This is not just offensive and painful to Christians everywhere; it is blasphemy.” (USCCB) The rallying cry was the Litany of the Sacred Heart continued at Masses, on Catholic broadcasts, blogs and demonstrations throughout the day. Archbishop Gomez celebrated a well-attended Mass at noon at the Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of the Angels. The archbishop used the opportunity to remind the audience, “Today we celebrate the feast of Jesus’ Sacred Heart. We remember how much he loves us, and we ask him to give us a heart like his, meek and humble and filled with compassion. We will also be praying in a special way for our city and country for an end to prejudice and for renewed respect for the religious beliefs of all Angelinos and all Americans.” A few hours later the “sisters” were given the community hero award to largely empty stands, about an hour before game time. Meanwhile the demonstrators continued their vigil and,

despite a heavy police presence, it wasn’t necessary. There was no rioting, or other violence so typical of recent civil unrest in response to bigotry and hate toward the marginalized. To continue the prayerful contemplation of religious tolerance, June 22 -29 the USCCB celebrates religious freedom week: “Religious freedom allows the Church, and all religious communities, to live out their faith in public and to serve the good of all…the USCCB invites Catholics to pray, reflect, and act to promote religious freedom.” It’s hard to say if this situation impacted Dodger Management, although one wonders how the late Tommy Lasorda and Vin Scully, both devout Catholics, would have responded. Hopefully, the prayers will ultimately illuminate A WOMAN HOLDS UP HER ROSARY BEADS DURING A PROTEST OUTSIDE DODGER STADIUM ON JUNE 16. the “sisters” hearts and lead them to the peace of our Lord that is beyond all understanding. June 16 was the first night of a 3-game series against the San Francisco Giants. The Dodgers lost all three games. Love wins. C

ARCHBISHOP JOSÉ GOMEZ PROCEEDS INTO THE CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY QUEEN OF THE ANGELS AT THE START OF MASS ON JUNE 16.

PROTESTORS KNEEL IN PRAYER DURING A PEACEFUL GATHERING HELD AT DODGER STADIUM ON JUNE 16. J U N E 2 5 , 2 0 2 3 ■ O C C A T H O L I C

DIOCESAN NEWS care of the school, he was well respectIN MEMORIAM: ed by his team of custodians and he always made sure we had everything we JESSE LOPEZ, ST. needed.” JUNIPERO SERRA In 1997, at age 23, Lopez began his career with the school as a custodian, CATHOLIC SCHOOL two years after the school opened, and BY PATTY MAHONEY

“Jesse loved this school so much. It will be very difficult to fill his shoes.” —Elise Trent

T. JUNIPERO SERRA CATHOLIC School is mourning the sudden loss of a beloved staff member, Jesse Lopez, who died on May 21 at the age of 49. Lopez was the school’s Facilities Director. He was an integral part of St. Serra for 26 years and was loved by all. “I think Jesse was everyone’s favorite co-worker,” said Human Resources Director Elise Trent. “He took amazing

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was actively involved in the school’s construction on the Rancho Santa Margarita campus. He was promoted to Plant Operations Director in 2006. “He must have been a really excellent employee to get promoted from a custodian position to a director position at that young age,” remarked Trent. Trent worked with Lopez for the last four years and could not say enough great things about the man she said exuded warmth and joy. “He was really patient and approachable,” she said. “He never got stressed out, but if he ever did, he would just giggle and shrug his shoulders. He was JESSE LOPEZ a joyful person who made the best of every situation.” Sr. Principal Tim Tolzda added: “Jesse was the epitome of a servant leader! He was a person who put the organization above his own personal needs and desires. He was a supervisor who built trust amongst his team, who would do anything for him.” Ever dedicated to his job, he made the daily 100-mile round trip commute from his home in Perris along with his son Jesse, Jr. (“JJ”), who works in the IT Department at the school. Born in Puebla, Mexico, Lopez was proud of his heritage and wanted to share the culture with his friends at St. Serra. Along with his custodial team, he started a tradition that lasted several years. In early August, before the students were back on campus, Jesse and his team, with the support of his wife, Maria, put on a Mexican feast for the staff members who were on campus during the summer months. Administrative Coordinator Diana McCarron who worked with Jesse for 22 years, recounted another favorite

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memory: “As much as Jesse loved his roots, he was extremely proud and excited when he became an American citizen in 2014. As was his style, Jesse did not like any attention focused on himself, but we threw him a surprise “Citizenship Party” anyway, and even though he was very humble as usual, you could see the joy and again the pride, in his face and huge smile, as we gathered around to honor him and his accomplishment!” Classes were cancelled on the day Lopez’s memorial service was held so that staff could attend. Trent estimates over 100 current and past staffers made the trek to Perris to pay their respects to Lopez, the dedicated husband, father and grandfather, whom they all so greatly admired. In honor of his favorite color (and his love for the Dodgers), guests at the service wore bright blue. In the first few days following his death, the St. Serra community raised $45,000 for the Lopez family. “The St. Serra Parent Teacher Organization stepped up very quickly to create an opportunity for everyone to help the Lopez family,” said Trent. “The generosity of the community was touching and inspiring.” It was an amazing outpouring of support expressing their admiration and appreciation to the man who kept the campus absolutely beautiful and pristine. “Every time you walked on campus, you knew it was that way because of Jesse,” said Trent. “We will honor Jesse’s memory by continuing to take care of our campus and each other, just like Jesse did.”C

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BISHOP’S CORNER

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Services

Canonical Retreat Bishop joined this year’s (2023) Permanent Deacon Class candidates on the morning of June 3 during their canonical retreat.

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Blessing of the Streets Bishop Vann celebrated Mass on June 11 on the Feast of Corpus Christi at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Santa Ana. Following Mass, Bishop took part in the annual Blessing of the Streets, which began in 1993 in response to a surge in violence and gang-related shootings in Santa Ana.

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GUEST COLUMN

Attention summer travelers! Send us your “OC Catholic Abroad” photo! You’ll be entered to win a $50, $25 or $15 gift card and you may be featured in an upcoming issue of Orange County Catholic! Send travel pictures of yourself, family or friends to editor@occatholic.com. Photos from any destination — like a church, a hiking trail or a cruise — are welcome! Please include a brief description of the photo, location, the name of the people featured in the photo and your home parish in Orange County. Your photo must include someone holding an issue of OC Catholic to be entered to win.

Photos must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, September 1, 2023 to be entered to win. Only high resolution photos will be considered for publication in the print edition of OC Catholic. Photos become the property of the Diocese of Orange and may be used for publication in OC Catholic or by the Diocese for print or online publication or social media purposes. Three gift card winners will be randomly selected by OCC staff. Only photos depicting locations outside of Orange County are eligible to win.

THE EUCHARIST: A REFLECTION BY FR. BRANDON DANG, DIRECTOR OF VOCATIONS FOR THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE

ACK ON MAY 13, I had the blessing and honor of celebrating Mass for our dear Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist at their convent. Not only was it the Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima, but it was also the patronal feast of the Sisters’ Order – Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament. In all sincerity, this Marian title was completely unbeknownst to me until FR. BRANDON DANG the sisters made mention that we will be celebrating this Feast on the day I was to celebrate Mass. This sent me on a wonder- him! Not only did she find him in church ful adventure of discovering more of Her but found him on the mensa of the high title, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament. altar leaning his head on the tabernacle The title of Our Lady of the Blessed door! When Marianne saw this, astonished Sacrament was first given to Mary by St. and shocked, she asked him what he was Peter Julian Eymard in May 1868, while doing; with childlike simplicity he replied, speaking to his novices. A few years later “I am near Jesus, and I am listening to he described what her statue should look him!” like: “The Blessed Virgin holds the Infant I am so grateful that the Dominican in her arms; and He holds a chalice in one Sisters sent me on this beautiful adventure hand and a Host in the other.” He exhorted of not only knowing St. Peter Eymard, but them to invoke Mary: “Our Lady of the to enhance my own love for the Eucharist. Blessed Sacrament, pray for us who have In this month of June, we have celebrated recourse to thee!” a Priesthood Ordination and the SolemI was sent on another adventure to nity of Corpus Christi, which should be discover the life of St. Peter Julian Eymard. an encouragement to all of us that the As with many saints, I have heard of their Eucharist is the source and summit of our names, but not the entirety of their stories. lives. As Vocations Director, I journey with He was known as the “Apostle of the our seminarians towards priesthood and Eucharist” because of his deep passion and it has been a goal of mine to enhance the devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. One love of the Eucharist of our men, that we of my favorite stories of St. Peter Eymard be like St. Peter Julian and say, “I am near is one during his youth. His devotion to Jesus, and I am listening to him!” In these the Eucharist started from the beginning years of the Eucharistic Revival, may these of his life. At the ripe young age of 5, he words by St. John Vianney resonate in our went missing – every parent’s nightmare! hearts, souls, and minds: His parents sent his sister, Marianne, to go “Without the Blessed Eucharist there search for him and bring him home. After would no longer be any happiness in this searching near and far, Marianne was at world, life would be unbearable. When we her wits end and decided to look in the last receive Holy Communion, we receive our place she thought he would be, the church. joy and all our good.” -St. John Vianney Perhaps it was God’s movement in MariOur Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, anne’s heart, but nevertheless, she found pray for us who have recourse to thee! C

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Moments MomentsininourourJourney Journey

We are a group of 34 parishioners from St. Timothy Catholic Church in Laguna Niguel on our pilgrimage to the Holy Land May 15 to May 28. Our good shepherds Monsignor John Urell and Deacon Ken Hobbs led us in our incredible faith reflection in Jesus Christ and this day, on the Sea of Galilee. —Submitted by Max Skaare

Send your photos that capture Catholic life in your parish community to: editor@occatholic.com

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CATHOLIC SCHOOLS DIOCESE OF ORANGE

Now Enrolling for the 2023-24 School Year!! OC CATHOLIC SCHOOLS - A CLEAR ADVANTAGE COMMUNITY OF FAITH & VALUES

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS ANAHEIM St. Catherine's Academy (714) 772-1363 St. Justin Martyr School (714) 772-4902 BREA St. Angela Merici School (714) 529-6372 BUENA PARK St. Pius V School (714) 522-5313 COSTA MESA St. Joachim School (949) 574-7411 St. John the Baptist School (714) 557-5060 CYPRESS St. Irenaeus School (714) 827-4500 DANA POINT St. Edward Parish School (949) 496-1241 FULLERTON St. Juliana Falconieri School (714) 871-2829

GARDEN GROVE Christ Cathedral Academy (714) 971-2023 (714) 534-3947 St. Columban School HUNTINGTON BEACH St. Bonaventure School (714) 846-2472 Sts. Simon & Jude School (714) 962-4451 LAGUNA NIGUEL St. Anne School (949) 276-6700 LOS ALAMITOS St. Hedwig School (562) 296-9060 St. John the Baptist School (714) 557-5060 NEWPORT BEACH Our Lady Queen of Angels (949) 644-1166 ORANGE Holy Family School (714) 538-6012 (714) 633-5411 La Purisima School St. Norbert School (714) 637-6822 PLACENTIA St. Joseph School

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA St. Junipero Serra Catholic (949) 888-1990 SAN CLEMENTE Our Lady of Fatima Academy (949) 492-7320 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Mission Basilica School (949) 234-1385 SANTA ANA St. Anne Parish School (714) 542-9328 (714) 775-9477 St. Barbara School St. Joseph School (714) 542-2704 TUSTIN St. Cecilia School (714) 544-1533 St. Jeanne de Lestonnac (714) 542-4271 WESTMINSTER Blessed Sacrament School (714) 893-7701 YORBA LINDA St. Francis of Assisi School

(714) 695-3700

HIGH SCHOOLS ANAHEIM Servite High School

(714) 774-7575

FULLERTON Rosary Academy

(714) 879-6302

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA Santa Margarita Catholic High School (949) 766-6000 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO J Serra Catholic High School (949) 493-9307 SANTA ANA *Cristo Rey High School (714) 439-9626 Mater Dei High School (714) 754-7711

*OPENING FALL 2023

(714) 528-1794

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR: Website: occatholicschools.org E-mail: catholicschools@rcbo.org

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