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CONTENTS
MEET OUR NEW PRINCIPALS!
Several Orange County Catholic schools have new leadership.
SERVITE
STARTS SCHOOL YEAR WITH A CHANGE
The all-boys Anaheim high school is launching the year with a ban on smartphones.
TAKE UP YOUR TRUE CROSS
To mark the Exhaltation of the Holy Cross, consider the crosses you bear in life.
ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC MISSION STATEMENT
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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
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“
..Cast out the fears that paralyze you ... open the door of the cage, go out and fly!”
— Pope Francis
SAINT PROFILE
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY
1 COR 5:1-8; PS 5:5-6, 7, 12; LK 6:6-11
TUESDAY
1 COR 6:1-11; PS 149:1B-2, 3-4, 5-6A AND 9B; LK 6:12-19
WEDNESDAY
1 COR 7:25-31; PS 45:11-12, 14-15, 1617; LK 6:20-26
THURSDAY
1 COR 8:1B-7, 1113; PS 139:1B-3, 13-14AB, 23-24; LK 6:27-38
NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY C. FIRST CENTURY
THE DETAILS OF MARY’S birth are unknown. Her parents, not mentioned in the Bible, are called Joachim and Anne in the apocryphal Gospel of James. This book claims that Joachim went into the desert to lament their childlessness and learned in a vision or dream that he and Anne would have a daughter. Ancient traditions put Mary’s birth in Nazareth or Jerusalem. The feast of her birth originated in the East; in the seventh century, Pope St. Sergius I ordered that it and three other Marian feasts, the Annunciation, Purification and Assumption, be celebrated in Rome. This feast is another sign of God’s faithfulness to old and new covenant promises that were fully realized in Mary’s son, Jesus Christ. C
PHOTOS: CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE, SHUTTERSTOCK
FRIDAY
1 COR 9:16-19, 22B-27; PS 84:3, 4, 5-6, 12; LK 6:39-42
SATURDAY
NM 21:4B-9; PS 78:1BC-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38; PHIL 2:6-11; JN 3:1317
SUNDAY IS 50:5-9A; PS 116:12, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9; JAS 2:14-18; MK 8:27-35
PHOTO BY MATEUS CAMPOS FELIPE ON UNSPLASH
WELCOME BACK!
IT’S A NEW SCHOOL YEAR IN THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE
BY PATTY MAHONEY
ANEW SCHOOL YEAR in the Diocese of Orange has begun! Students, teachers and staff made their way back to classrooms for what is sure to be a great new school year filled with faith, learning and friendship.
Orange County Catholic made visits to a few of our schools on the first day back. Enjoy! C
BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN WESTMINSTER MARKED ITS FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL ON AUG. 21. PHOTOS BY KIERNAN COLIFLORES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
STS. SIMON & JUDE CATHOLIC SCHOOL’S (HUNTINGTON BEACH) STUDENTS AND STAFF HEADED BACK TO CLASS ON AUG. 26. PHOTOS BY KIERNAN COLIFLORES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
ST. HEDWIG IN LOS ALAMITOS WELCOMED ITS STUDENTS BACK TO CAMPUS ON AUG. 26, BUT MANY SCHOOL FAMILIES JOINED PARISHIONERS THE DAY PRIOR FOR A PANCAKE BREAKFAST HOSTED BY THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. ALONG WITH ENJOYING A TASTY COMMUNITY MEAL, STUDENTS AND THEIR PARENTS GOT A CHANCE TO MEET THEIR NEW PRINCIPAL, MR. CHRIS MCGUINESS. PHOTOS BY DREW KELLEY/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
CRISTO REY’S BIG VISION FOR A BIGGER FUTURE
AS SCHOOL OFFICIALS WORK
TO EXPAND THEIR CAMPUS, MOTIVATED STUDENTS
CONTINUE TO EXPERIENCE A REWARDING HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE
BY MIKE VULPO
WHEN SUMMER vacation came to an end, students enrolled in Cristo Rey Orange County High School knew an exciting adventure was about to begin.
As soon as they arrived on the Santa Ana campus for the first day of school on Aug.14, motivated and mature high schoolers realized they could dream big with an even bigger support system surrounding them.
“Cristo Rey is innovative and unique,” founding principal Karelyn Roberts told Orange County Catholic during the first month of the fall semester. “The small school environment contributes to our ability to provide individualized instruction to meet the needs of each student.
Failure is not an option at Cristo Rey. We are able to successfully support students so that all students experience success in the classroom and their workplace.”
While academics are a major aspect of student life at Cristo Rey, a corporate work-study program employs every student five full days a month in an entry-level, professional job for all four years of high school.
Students earn a portion of their education cost while gaining real-world work experience that strengthens their confidence and prepares them for success in college and careers.
“We provide the opportunity for students to receive a quality, college-preparatory education paired with real-world experience,” Roberts explained. “I have felt so blessed to see our students grow in confidence as they take on challenging
academic courses and head out to their professional jobs. Students are able to identify their strengths, believe in their God-given potential and accomplish more than they believed they were capable of.”
For Vince Prietto, who is a theology teacher and the founding director of campus ministry, he sees the growth in students in and out of the classroom firsthand.
He also follows the school’s mission to make the kingdom of God concrete in the here and now.
“Concretely, this looks like providing access to a quality Catholic, secondary education: a rigorous academic program, integrated faith formation and a unique work-study program,” he shared. “It’s wonderful to see how students have grown socially, intellectually and spiritually. Our students are joyful, caring and talented young men and women who are our partners in creating our school community.”
JUST THE BEGINNING
As Cristo Rey High School kicks off their second year in Santa Ana, school leaders have big visions for current and future students.
They are actively looking for a larger, permanent campus to accommodate the rapid growth in interest from the community.
“We are already bursting at the seams, and we don’t want to turn people away,” Roberts said. “We want to have a building that can accommodate families who want this opportunity and students who want the opportunity that we provide. We need a larger facility, and we’d like to stay in Santa Ana.”
During a period when some traditional Catholic schools were struggling to stay open, the Cristo Rey Network has grown into the largest network of high schools in the country that exclusively
FRESHMAN STUDENT CHLOE AND A PARENT ARRIVE FOR CRISTO REY HIGH SCHOOL’S FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL ON AUG. 14. PHOTOS BY ANN CHATILLON
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BACK TO SCHOOL: “GO FORTH AND BEAR FRUIT”
BY DR. ERIN BARISANO, SUPERINTENDENT OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS FOR THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE
AS THE SUMMER DAYS begin to wane and the excitement of a new school year fills the air, we gather once again as a vibrant Catholic school community, ready to embark on a journey of growth, learning and faith. This year, we embrace the theme: “Go Forth and Bear Fruit,” inspired by the words of Jesus in John 15:16. This call is not just a reminder of our mission but a challenge to each of us—students, teachers and families alike—to actively live out our faith and make a positive impact in the world.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks of the importance of bearing fruit as a reflection of our relationship with Him. As Catholic schools, we are uniquely positioned to nurture this relationship in our students, encouraging them to grow in their faith, knowledge and service to others as stated in our mission. This year, let us re-commit ourselves to fostering an environment where our students can flourish spiritually, academically and socially.
At the heart of our mission is the formation of disciples who are rooted in their Catholic faith. This year, our schools will prioritize opportunities for prayer, worship and reflection, inviting our students to deepen their relationship with Christ. Through daily prayers, Mass celebrations and retreats, we will create spaces for students to encounter God and understand their unique call to bear fruit in their lives.
develop the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. As they grow in knowledge, they will be better equipped to bear fruit in their future endeavors.
The theme “Go Forth and Bear Fruit” also calls us to action in our communities. Service is a vital expression of our faith, and we will strive to instill in our students a sense of responsibility and compassion for others. By putting their faith into action, our students will learn that bearing fruit often means serving others.
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Catholic schools are called to cultivate not only the spiritual but also the intellectual growth of our students. Our commitment to academic excellence will remain steadfast as we provide rigorous and engaging programs that challenge our students to think critically and creatively. By encouraging curiosity and a love for learning, we empower our students to
As we celebrate the first days of school, let us carry the spirit of “Go Forth and Bear Fruit” in our hearts. May this year be filled with opportunities for growth, connection and transformation. Together, we can cultivate a culture of faith, academic excellence and service that will inspire our students to bear fruit in their lives and in the world around them. C
DR. ERIN BARISANO, SUPERINTENDENT OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS FOR THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE. PHOTO BY DREW KELLEY/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
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serves low-income students.
In the last 20 years, the Cristo Rey Network has grown from a single school in south Chicago to a national network of 40 schools. The network even caught the attention of “60 Minutes,” which previously profiled the schools during its primetime show.
“I see Christ in the transformative love at the center of our community,” Prietto said when recalling God’s work at the Santa Ana campus. “Where does the absolute goodness of our students come from? What is the source of the great commitment and care of our families? What animates the generosity and compassion of our staff, partners and donors? We are all caught up and carried along in the very life of Christ, transforming all things.”
School leaders like Roberts invite students and families to visit the campus and experience the Cristo Rey difference.
The school also considers a variety of factors during the application process
FEATURE
such as whether or not students embrace Catholic values, have demonstrated strong discipline and attendance records and have limited economic resources.
“We don’t want to be the best-kept secret!” Roberts explained when promoting her school. “We have such amazing students and families alongside us for this adventure. See for yourself what makes Cristo Rey such an amazing opportunity for students in Orange County!”
With a new school year just beginning, Roberts and her staff are filled with excitement to have the opportunity to transform students’ lives daily. As a bonus, they can confidently say they are just getting started.
“I wake up each day grateful that I am able to work in such a special place with such amazing people,” Roberts shared. “Our students, families and staff are committed to making a positive impact on our community and world. … It is such a blessing to be able to provide a school environment where students flourish.” C
FRESHMAN STUDENT YVONNE GETS TO WORK IN THE CLASSROOM DURING HER FIRST WEEK OF CLASSES.
FRESHMEN STUDENTS ISABELLA AND CAMILA RECEIVE A WARM WELCOME FROM TEACHERS AND STAFF AT CRISTO REY HIGH SCHOOL. PHOTOS BY ANN CHATILLON
SCHOOLS
ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS: MEET OUR NEW PRINCIPALS!
BY PATTY MAHONEY
MANY OF OUR Catholic schools in the Diocese of Orange welcomed new principals this year. Orange County Catholic thought it would be fun to get to know our new fearless leaders by asking them a few pressing questions:
JENNIFER JUKIC/OUR LADY OF FATIMA ACADEMY, SAN CLEMENTE
Where did you grow up? Sierra Madre, CA.
How long have you been in the education field? Started teaching in 1999 but started volunteering as a teen for my sister’s special education classroom and my elementary school’s summer program. What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year? I am most excited to transform something that is good into something that is not great, but fabulous! I have added an arts and music program that consists of a kiln and also musical instruments. I have also adopted some new curriculum to enhance our academics and clean up the campus to show the real beauty it is in the gorgeous city of San Clemente.
What is your favorite place on earth? Any beach with my family.
What is your favorite quote? “Imagination is more important than knowledge,” by Albert Einstein.
CLAUDIA DANZER/ST. BARBARA CATHOLIC SCHOOL, SANTA ANA
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Los Angeles, where I attended Catholic schools and developed a strong foundation in my faith, education and community values. When I was 15, my family moved to Huntington Beach, where we’ve continued to build our lives and create
lasting memories.
How long have you been in the education field? I’ve dedicated 26 years to the field of education. Over the decades, I’ve had the privilege of guiding and inspiring students through various stages of their academic journeys.
What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year?
As the new school year begins, I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to uncover and nurture the unique potential within each student at St. Barbara School. My top goal is to foster an environment where every student feels empowered to achieve their best and grow spiritually, academically, and personally.
What is your favorite place on earth?
My favorite place on earth is at home with my family. There’s no greater joy than spending quality time with loved ones, sharing in the everyday moments that make life special.
What is your favorite quote? My favorite quote is, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” This quote deeply resonates with me because it inspires personal responsibility and accountability. It serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful change starts with our own actions and choices, encouraging each of us to lead by example and actively contribute to creat-
ing the world we envision.
BRETT MINTER/SAINTS SIMON AND JUDE CATHOLIC SCHOOL, HUNTINGTON BEACH
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Long Beach, CA. I went to St. Joseph Elementary School and St. Anthony High School.
How long have you been in the education field? I’ve spent 25 years in the education field (St. Pius V Elementary School, St. Anthony High School, St. Pius X - St. Matthias Academy and Our Lady of Fatima Academy).
What are you most excited about/ top goal as you begin the new school year? Immersing myself in the SSJ School and Church community to help build
relationships and partnerships that will help grow the overall church and school community.
What is your favorite place on earth? On a road trip with my wife, on a golf course with my brothers and friends, in a classroom watching the students learn a new skill or learning about God while having an enjoyable time in class. What is your favorite quote? “God will never give you anything you cannot handle.” My dad told me this when I was in a tough position in my life.
BRIDGET RONAN/ST. CATHERINE’S ACADEMY, ANAHEIM
Where did you grow up? Whittier, CA (went to St. Gregory the Great and St. Paul High School).
How long have you been in the education field? I am starting my 17th year (14 years as a teacher and three in administration).
What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year? I want to continue to grow in servant leadership. I love watching how our boys grow in confidence and leadership throughout the year.
What is your favorite place on earth? Anywhere my family is gathered and the Grotto at the University of Notre Dame. What is your favorite quote? “Nothing
BRETT MINTER, PRINCIPAL OF STS. SIMON & JUDE CATHOLIC SCHOOL, HUNTINGTON BEACH.
CLAUDIA DANZER, PRINCIPAL OF ST. BARBARA CATHOLIC SCHOOL, SANTA ANA.
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great is ever achieved without much enduring,” by St. Catherine of Siena.
ELAINA STOKES (UPPER SCHOOL PRINCIPAL)/ST.
JUNIPERO SERRA CATHOLIC SCHOOL, RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA
Where did you grow up? Mission Viejo, Orange County, CA.
How long have you been in the education field? Twenty-five years.
What are you most excited about/ top goal as you begin the new school year? Establish strong, positive relationships with teachers, students, parents and the community. Listening to their concerns and feedback is crucial for creating a supportive environment.
What is your favorite place on earth? Lake Tahoe and Maui, Hawaii.
What is your favorite quote? “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity,” by Albert Einstein.
DR. LAURA ISMERIO (INTERIM PRINCIPAL)/OUR LADY QUEEN OF ANGELS CATHOLIC SCHOOL, NEWPORT BEACH
Where did you grow up? I grew up in the San Fernando Valley.
How long have you been in the education field? I’ve been in education for 22 years.
What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year? I am most excited to have parents participate in our new school initiatives like Love and Logic and Differentiation. We want to make sure that as a school community we are practicing our Catholic faith by treating all our students with respect and dignity and are helping every student grow and be successful academically.
What is your favorite place on earth? All Beaches in Mexico but Cancun is the most beautiful of all.
What is your favorite quote? Ad maiorem Dei gloriam, AMDG – “Everything we do is for the Greater Glory of God.”
DR. RICHARD YOON/ ST. BONAVENTURE SCHOOL, HUNTINGTON BEACH
Where did you grow up? Cerritos, CA.
How long have you been in the education field? Thirty-three years.
What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year? I
DR. LAURA ISMERIO, INTERIM PRINCIPAL OF OUR LADY QUEEN OF ANGELS CATHOLIC SCHOOL, NEWPORT BEACH.
BRIDGET RONAN, HEAD OF SCHOOL AT ST. CATHERINE’S ACADEMY, ANAHEIM.
ELAINA STOKES (UPPER SCHOOL PRINCIPAL)/ ST. JUNIPERO SERRA CATHOLIC SCHOOL, RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA
legacy of graduating committed Christians passionate about the world around them continues and that the families continue to remain engaged in the educational process. The strength of this school is in the community that surrounds and supports it, beginning with our parents.
What is your favorite place on earth? I have not travelled much, but I will say my favorite places are scuba diving in a kelp forest, sitting along a stream or river, the grotto at the University of Notre Dame and wherever I can spend quality time with my wife and two children. If they are there, it is my favorite place.
How long have you been in the education field? Twenty-three years.
What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year? I am most excited to embrace the amazing community that St. Edward the Confessor Parish School is and get to know them and celebrate them and all their God given talents.
What is your favorite place on earth? My favorite place on earth is being at the beach with my family.
What is your favorite quote? “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13) C
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
am excited to meet the teachers, students and families. My main objectives are to ensure that there is continued growth in all facets of the school including Faith Formation, Catholic Identity and Academic Excellence.
What is your favorite place on earth? The beach or my house. St. Bonaventure is close to the beach so it’s becoming my home.
What is your favorite quote? “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” (1 Peter 4:10-11)
JOSEPHINE PANZA (INTERIM PRINCIPAL)/ ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC SCHOOL, YORBA LINDA
Where did you grow up? Claremont, CA.
How long have you been in the education field? Twenty-two years.
What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year? My top priority is to foster a positive and supportive school environment where the entire SFA community feels valued and motivated to reach their goals. What is your favorite place on earth? Castellamare del Golfo, Sicily. This is my parents’ hometown, and it is absolutely breathtaking.
What is your favorite quote? “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
CHRIS MCGUINESS/ST. HEDWIG, LOS ALAMITOS
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Long Beach, attending St. Barnabas Elementary School and St. Anthony High School.
How long have you been in the education field? This is my 28th year in education. Prior to that I spent four years working at a parish as a youth minister and Confirmation coordinator.
What are you most excited about/top goal as you begin the new school year? I have always admired St. Hedwig school for the community engagement, commitment to service, leadership development and close-knit families. In my years working at St. Anthony High School, I found the St. Hedwig graduates to be the ones who always took on leadership roles and were first to volunteer when a service project came up. This year, I want to ensure that the great
What is your favorite quote? “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
SUZANNE EDWARDS/ST. EDWARD THE CONFESSOR PARISH SCHOOL, DANA POINT
Where did you grow up? Laguna Niguel, CA.
DR. RICHARD YOON, PRINCIPAL OF ST. BONAVENTURE SCHOOL, HUNTINGTON BEACH.
JOSEPHINE PANZA, INTERIM PRINCIPAL OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC SCHOOL, YORBA LINDA
SUZANNE EDWARDS, PRINCIPAL OF ST. EDWARD THE CONFESSOR PARISH SCHOOL, DANA POINT.
CHRIS MCGUINESS, PRINCIPAL OF ST. HEDWIG, LOS ALAMITOS.
SERVITE STUDENTS BEGIN NEW SCHOOL YEAR WITH BAN ON SMARTPHONES
AHEAD OF A LIKELY NEW STATE LAW, ADMINISTRATORS, STUDENTS AND FACULTY SUPPORT THE OBVIOUS BENEFITS OF THE RESTRICTION – ALONG WITH SOME CONS
BY GREG HARDESTY
SERVITE HIGH SCHOOL in Anaheim has gotten a jump on a state bill Gov. Gavin Newsom is expected to sign into law that would limit or prohibit smartphones at all public schools during the school day.
When students at the all-boys Catholic high school in Anaheim reported to the first day of classes on Aug. 12, they did so without packing their latest iPhone, Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy devices.
“Overall, I approve of the no-phone policy even though it has obvious cons,” said Servite student ambassador Michael Ghebrial, Class of 2026. “I feel as if my friends are more present unlike before, where they’d be scrolling through social media and show each other random videos occasionally.”
Because of the new policy, Michael has gone “old school.”
He now carries a notepad in his pocket to keep a to-do list and to write down stuff he needs to tell his parents and siblings that he can’t text while at school.
A HEALTHIER SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT
The new Servite policy followed a summer reading assignment faculty and staff did of Jonathon Haidt’s “The Anxious Generation,” which details how smartphones and other devices are leading to an increase in youth mental illness.
“At Servite High School, we are com-
mitted to fostering an environment where our students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally,” Principal Nancy Windisch said of the new policy. “As part of this commitment, we are excited to announce our new Phone-Free Campus initiative during the academic day.
“Recent studies, including insights from ‘The Anxious Generation,’ have highlighted the impact of constant digital engagement on young people’s mental health and well-being,” Windisch added.
“Haidt’s research underscores the importance of reducing screen time to help students develop deeper connections, improve focus and reduce anxiety.
“By creating a phone-free campus,” the Service principal continued, “we aim to encourage our students to engage more fully in their learning, build stronger relationships with their peers and teachers and develop the essential life skills that will serve them well beyond their time at Servite High School.
“We believe that this initiative will contribute to a more mindful and balanced school experience, allowing our students to flourish in all areas of their lives.”
NEW STATE LAW LIKELY COMING
The Phone-Free Schools Act, a bipartisan bill, would require all California public schools to devise a smartphone policy to keep the devices out of classrooms by July 1, 2026.
As the academic year began, Gov. Newsom urged educators to enact restrictions, citing the “mental health, scholastic and social risks” of phone use in classrooms, according to a report in The Los Angeles Times. California would be the fifth state to require school districts to limit students’ phone usage, joining Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and Virginia.
SERVITE STUDENTS ENJOY LUNCHTIME ACTIVITIES RATHER THAN FOCUSING ON THEIR PHONES. PHOTOS BY VALERIE CASTILLO/SERVITE HIGH SCHOOL
The Phone-Free Schools Act would allow schools to use “enforcement mechanisms” to limit smartphone access, such as in-class lockers and individual locking pouches, The Times reported.
The bill also includes a few exceptions — schools cannot prohibit students from using phones for individualized instruction, medical necessity and in emergencies. A teacher or administrator can also grant permission.
Los Angeles Unified, the nation’s second-largest school district, recently approved plans to ban phones in January 2025.
A Pew Research Center survey released in June 2024 found that 1 in 3 middle school teachers and nearly 3 in 4 high school teachers call smartphones a major problem.
During school hours in a single day, the average student receives 60 notifications and spends 43 minutes — roughly the length of a classroom period — on their phone, according to a 2023 study by Common Sense Media, The Times reported.
LEARNING RESTRAINT
Mike Marshall, a social science teacher and hockey coach at Servite, believes the new policy will help “model and form” students.
“We value the need to teach students how to function without the phone,” he said. “I think it will take time, but it will help students to focus on what they are at school for: both social and academic development.
“We are not just here to teach them the curriculum, but also form them into faith-filled, fully present leaders,” Marshall added. “I believe we are setting them up for this success by creating the habit of breaking free from the phone.”
Aidan Sullivan, a senior and treasurer general of the Class of 2025, said he’s learned restraint when it comes to his smartphone.
“It was a hard adjustment at first,” he said, “but I think, despite my being a
‘screenager,’ it has been beneficial for me. Our school has been good at introducing this policy gradually as well, even starting last year with the no-phone notices to now where it is an active policy.”
NOT HAPPY
Servite parent Maya Alvarez said her son isn’t thrilled about the new policy.
“As a teenage boy,” she said, “he doesn’t like being told what he can and cannot do.” But Alvarez added that she’s grateful that Servite students are given the oppor tunity to interact without smartphones.
“This policy will help the boys learn how to make eye contact, ask questions, provide appropriate responses, engage in humorous exchanges and show empathy — all skills that they fail to develop when the cell phone becomes a primary socialization tool,” she said.
FACE-TO-FACE CONVERSATIONS
Catherine Venturini, a Servite parent and president of the Servite Parent Community Council, said the new policy has been a big adjustment for her son, Aiden Dauger, a senior, but that he realizes
its benefits.
“This year will be a good test to see if their smartphone behaviors change both in and out of school,” Venturini noted. Said “old school” Michael: “What I hope happens is that the students realize the benefit of not having their phones out all the time and eventually are allowed to use their phones, but that they exercise self-control to not have them out all the time.
“Seeing my fellow students talking face-to-face during breaks and in halls between classes is marvelous and I hope this continues.” C
LUNCH ON THE QUAD LOOKS A LITTLE DIFFERENT AT SERVITE THIS YEAR THANKS TO A PHONE-FREE CAMPUS POLICY. PHOTO BY VALERIE CASTILLO/SERVITE HIGH SCHOOL
TAKE UP YOUR TRUE CROSS
BY REBEKAH VALDERRAMA
THIS WEEK IS THE feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, which commemorates the finding of the relic of the True Cross in Jerusalem. This feast is a great celebration of the rich treasures of the Church, but it’s also a great reminder to reflect on the crosses and struggles that God has given us in our lives, and how He’s calling us to carry them.
Trusting God has been a journey for our family for the past several years. We’ve had to trust Him through job losses, relocations, school changes, unplanned pregnancies and a stressful house hunt.
He answers prayers though! Every time a situation has been out of our hands, He’s provided in bigger and better ways. We feel like we’re getting better at trust, but it only gets harder each time. I’m sorry to tell you that trust isn’t a destination. Every new opportunity to grow in trust comes with a bigger challenge to face, a harder cross to bear.
“The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis is a book I’ve come back to over and over again in my spiritual journey. Each new cross in my life reminds me of this passage:
“…he should accept with patience the tribulation which has actually been dealt out to him-the present anxiety and suspense. It is about this that he is to say, ‘Thy will be done,’ for the daily task of bearing this that the daily bread will be provided… [he] never thinks of the present fear as his appointed cross but only of the things he is afraid of.” (C.S. Lewis, “The Screwtape Letters”)
Lewis’ lesson here is that your True Cross – the one you’re called to bear and offer up as in Matthew 16:24 “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross and follow
me” — can be exceptionally difficult to identify when you’re in the midst of fear and anxiety over the future. When I’m uncertain about the future, I go into contingency-planning mode. But the thing is, I’m not being asked to resign myself to any of those potential outcomes. I’m only asked to accept today’s feeling of uncer-
How do I trust God’s plan for my life if it never seems to bring me peace in the moment? If I ever figure out the balance between resignation and longing, I will be sure to come back and let you know. There’s a statue of St. Jude in our home, which we placed as soon as we moved in last year. It was a novena to St. Jude that helped us finally close on a house. I made that novena at a low point of despair and longing. Maybe I had to be broken down so far in order to fully let go and allow God to provide a miracle. That statue is a reminder of how God worked through our fears and dreams to bring us closer to Him, and how He has never failed to answer our prayers, even if the answer was “not yet” for what felt like far too long.
There will always be new anxieties and challenges ahead, new crosses to bear and new sufferings to “offer up.” Each one will be a new opportunity to trust God even more deeply, to take up that cross of uncertainty and follow Him wherever His perfect plan leads us. C
tainty itself and offer up that discomfort to Jesus.
I’m still trying to figure out how to cope with the anxiety when you feel like you’re being called to want and work for something big, but God’s answer to that longing is “not yet.” How do you consider the lilies while also investing your talents?
PHOTO BY THANTI RIESS ON UNSPLASH
OC Catholic Afar
The Dwyer Family brought along a copy of OC Catholic when they visited London in June to celebrate the graduation of their daughter Tatum from Mater Dei.
Vickie and Mick are pictured outside Our Ladye Star of the Sea Catholic Church just after attending Mass.
Son Griffin, a 2022 Mater Dei alum, took the photo. Vickie is a 1987 Cornelia Connelly alum.
The family’s home parish is San Antonio de Padua del Cañon, in Anaheim Hills.
—Submitted by Mick Dwyer
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.
