Volunteers for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul carry out a mission to assist families in need.
PARTNERSHIP
OF ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
St. Bonaventure Catholic Church hosts a special Mass to commemorate the start of the new school year.
9 A TASTE OF VIETNAM
La Purísima Catholic Church in Orange presented a cultural event for its diverse parish community.
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
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.
HOME ALTARS
READER CALL-OUT
The taller Virgin was brought to me from a dear friend who visited Rome. She carried it while on a long tour of the city and then on the flight back to Long Beach. The smaller statue belonged to my grandmother Donaciana Reyes and graced her home altar in the 1950s. As a child, every Friday I would iron the altar linens and pick flowers from her garden. The Virgin would then take her place of honor amid St. Joseph, St. Jude and a very old, framed photograph of the crucifixion of Christ taken at a church in Mexico.
Later, my mother Nora Venegas then created a place of prominence on her altar for many years until she passed. I have had the Virgin since 2004 where she remains encased in this antique glass cabinet.
I have my grandmother to thank for my deep faith. She was one of the original ladies who attended the Sacred Heart Retreats hosted by the Carmelite Sisters back in the 1940s. I would tag along with my mother on the drive to Alhambra so grandmother could go on one of her special "vacations" as she called them. Through the years, I have made my way back to the Carmelite grounds and all should consider visiting.
—Vivian Frahm, St. Vincent de Paul parish, Huntington Beach
Send your home altar photos to: editor@occatholic.comC
“ We are all beautiful gifts from God, a treasure for one another!”
THESE ARCHANGELS, MESSENGERS SENT by God, are the only ones named in the Bible. In the Book of Daniel, Michael is called “the great prince”; in the Letter of Jude, he argues with the devil over Moses' body; and in the Book of Revelation, he leads the battle against Satan. He is patron of the sick, radiologists and mariners. Gabriel explains Daniel's visions to him in the Book of Daniel, and in the Gospel of Luke announces to Zechariah and Mary the births of their respective sons. He is the patron of messengers and telecommunications and postal workers. Raphael guides Tobiah in the Book of Tobit; he is patron of the blind, physicians and travelers. The church created their joint feast after the Second Vatican Council. C
SUNDAY GN 2:18-24; PS 128:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6; HEB 2:9-11; MK 10:2-16 OR 10:2-12
PHOTO COURTESY OF VIVIAN FRAHM
ASSISTING SOCIETY WITH HEART AND SOUL
THE SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL IS ON A MISSION TO PROVIDE FOOD AND ASSISTANCE TO FAMILIES MOST IN NEED
BY MIKE VULPO
BEFORE THE SUN RISES every morning, St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church (Huntington Beach) parishioner Sylvia Spence heads to various grocery stores searching for food.
“Because I buy bulk, it's easier for me to get into the grocery stores early,” she told Orange County Catholic. “I go to Costco, Aldi, Walmart, Grocery Outlet. Anywhere I can find a good price or a discount price. I look for a lot of clearance. But I have a great crew. It's not just me.”
Spence, along with nearly 25 volunteers, come together at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Huntington Beach to help feed an average of 736 families per month as part of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The international organization assists families and the homeless by providing them with food and groceries, financial assistance, household necessities, medicines and other special needs.
For Wayne Lamarre, who has served as the president of St. Vincent de Paul’s Huntington Beach chapter for the past eight years, he continues to be amazed at what volunteers accomplish every week thanks to the generous support of parishioners.
“Everyone here has a heart of compassion,” Lamarre said. “They know these people who come in for food personally. In many cases, they know the backstory of their life. It’s a personal bond and a relationship that you develop.”
During one Thursday when food assistance was offered, 91 people came through in just 90 minutes. Ten of those individuals were currently homeless, with one living on the streets for more than 20 years.
St. Vincent de Paul parish manager Andy Sison applauds the society for the love and care they show every visitor hoping for some assistance.
“They work with people in reestablishing or emphasizing their dignity,” Sison said. “They go the extra mile. It’s not just about, ‘Here's your box, see you later.’ They get to know the people that are here. They're truly in need — maybe for a week, maybe for a year, maybe longer. But it's really about dignity. They listen to their stories. They try to go the extra mile.”
LENDING A HAND OUTSIDE THE KITCHEN
While the food pantry is an important component, providing financial assistance to those living within church boundaries is another aspect that makes this ministry helpful for so many.
“We have a tremendous increase in the amount of people who are coming for aid,” Lamarre said. “A lot of people are really pressed for rent. The rents are going up. We had one month where we did 17 home visits where we gave out roughly $1,000 to each person to stay in their apartment because they were behind on rent.”
Regardless of what neighborhood you live in, Lamarre believes there are always people who could use an extra hand.
“You don't realize the poor that are in your neighborhood,” he said. “They come in here and they have a $300 rent raise. Well, their income didn't go up $300 and they're basically living hand to mouth to
SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL PRESIDENT WAYNE LAMARRE AND TREASURER JOHN DUDASH VOLUNTEER IN THE FOOD PANTRY LOCATED AT ST. VINCENT DE PAUL PARISH IN HUNTINGTON BEACH. PHOTO BY MIKE VULPO/ DIOCESE OF ORANGE
begin with. These are the working poor.”
Treasurer John Dudash has seen the impact monetary aid can have on an individual struggling to get by. When the church receives a note of gratitude, it keeps all of the volunteers motivated to assist even more in need.
“We'll get a nice thank you note in the mail saying how their life was changed,” Dudash shared. “Us helping them stay in their apartment for that extra month got them over the hump. They were able to get their job straightened out. They're back to going to church again. We’ve made a significant impact on their life. When that happens, it really stirs you to continue to do what we're doing here.”
For Lamarre, helping others is in his DNA. During his life, he’s lost a home and a business and “saw the bottom.” By the grace of God, he’s now in a position to help others and pay it forward to those who are going through hard times.
“I was up and down my whole life,” he said. “I lived the richest and I lived the poorest, so I've always had a place in my heart for someone who's in need, because I've been there. To me, this is the work of a Christian, and the work of any Catholic is to take care of his brother. If I got it, I'm gonna give it.”
TEAM EFFORT
Before planning another grocery store trip to pick up food for the next distribution day, Spence makes it clear that she isn’t the only one who deserves credit for keeping the pantry thriving.
The former grocery store employee credits Thuy Vu for helping with produce every week. She also thanked her “right hand lady” Terry Suber for always coming in at 7 a.m. to help with bread and other necessities for a successful distribution day.
“We love helping out these people and they are very appreciative,” Spence shared. “They're very grateful for the stuff that we have. They love us, and we love them.”
If you would like your parish food pantry featured in OC Catholic , contact editor@occatholic.com. C
CELEBRATING THE PARTNERSHIP OF ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
ST. BONAVENTURE HOSTS SPECIAL MASS
BY LOU PONSI
ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC
School in Huntington Beach commemorated the start of the 2024-25 school year with a special Mass, featuring some notable guests among the congregants.
Administrators from several Diocese of Orange Catholic High Schools were in attendance on Sept. 6, with St. Bonaventure’s pastor, Fr. Vincent Pham, serving as the main celebrant.
Special guests also included Dr. Denise Valadez, associate superintendent of Orange County Catholic Schools, who was not only there in an official capacity, but as a proud parent of a St. Bonaventure student.
“I have a first grader, and it's just so nice to be here,” Valadez said. “There was just such great positive energy here today. It was such a wonderful experience.”
A commissioning ceremony introducing the 2024-25 student council also took place during Mass.
As part of the ceremony, parents of the new student council members fastened leadership pins on their children’s lapels. The Mass also provided the opportunity to commission and bless the new St. Bonaventure School principal to the parish community.
Dr. Richard Yoon came to St. Bonaventure from Rosary Academy, where he was the assistant principal of academics and head coach of the varsity basketball team, leading the Royals to CIF State, Regional and Southern Section championships.
“It's been a pleasure to work with this community,” Dr. Yoon said. “There are some strong individuals who have helped me throughout the process of transitioning
from high school to elementary school. So, it's been a great experience. I'm so grateful that the high school principals and presidents made time to come and join us in the blessings.”
High School administrators included Mike Brennan, president of Mater Dei Catholic High School; Frances Clare, Mater Dei’s principal; Shawna Pautsch, head
of School at Rosary Academy; Stephen Walswick, president of Servite High School and Nancy Windisch, principal of Servite High School.
The occasion took on added meaning for Pautsch, who worked with Yoon during his years at Rosary.
“I personally want to see Dr. Yoon thrive here because he was ready for this
moment of leadership and I'm very excited for him to be able to do this,” Pautsch said.
As an administrator within the Diocese of Orange, Pautsch also said she felt compelled to support a fellow diocesan school.
“Our high schools need to support our partner schools however we can,” Pautsch said. “I think it's a mutual relationship and
FR. VINCENT PHAM, PASTOR OF ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN HUNTINGTON BEACH, CELEBRATES MASS ON SEPT. 6 TO COMMEMORATE THE START OF THE 2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR. PHOTO COURTESY OF ALAN WENDELL
I think we need to show that we're here for whatever they might need. I firmly believe that Catholic education thrives because of the fact that we will partner with one another, elementary and high school administrators and schools, because we're the future of the Church.”
Mater Dei president Michael Brennan said the Monarch community was humbled to be included in the Mass and the ceremony welcoming the new St. Bonaventure principal.
“We always enjoy seeing the students at every school that we go to,” said Brennan, who took over as president at Mater Dei in 2022. “We would also love to have all the school principals over to Mater Dei High School for Mass as well.”
Welcoming the presidents and principals of the local Catholic high schools highlighted the strong partnership between these institutions and the academic journey that begins in grade school. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to nurturing students from their early years through high school and beyond, paving the way for a bright future. C
DR. RICHARD YOON, ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC SCHOOL’S NEW PRINCIPAL, RECEIVES A BLESSING DURING MASS.
FR. VINCENT PHAM, PASTOR OF ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN HUNTINGTON BEACH, COMMISSIONS STUDENT COUNCIL MEMBERS DURING MASS CELEBRATED ON SEPT. 6. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALAN WENDELL
ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN A SPECIAL MASS TO MARK THE BEGINNING OF THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR.
A TASTE OF VIETNAM
LA PURÍSIMA HOSTS FUN EVENT TO SHOWCASE VIETNAMESE CULTURE
BY LOU PONSI
THE CULTURAL FARE offered at the annual Taste of Vietnam festival at La Purísima Catholic Church in Orange attracts attendees from within La Purísima diverse parish community.
La Purísima is a multicultural parish attended by Vietnamese, Anglo, Latino and Filipino groups and the Taste of Vietnam is a way to bring the entire community together with the Catholic faith as the center of the gathering, said Ron Young, director of liturgy and ministry at La Purísima.
“The language that we speak might be different, but we are here for one purpose, which is the church and Jesus Christ,” Young said. “And it is great food, the best around. My wife loves the pho.”
Delicacies sold during this year’s festival held Sept.14 and 15 included pho,
always the festival’s best seller, chuổi chiên (fried banana), bánh kẹp (Pandan waffles), gỏi cuổn (spring rolls) and more.
And while savoring the food, attendees could participate in karaoke and enjoy live entertainment on the stage.
La Purísima’s Taste of Vietnam is also one of the parish’s most successful fundraisers.
The event takes months of planning and is organized by a large group of volunteers, said Fr. Martin Nguyen, La Purísima’s pastor.
“It's a lot of work,” Fr. Nguyen said. “It's a huge commitment by all the volunteers that we have here, young and old. Once they say yes to this project, they do it themselves. And you see the reward. So, it's a beautiful thing. The food is excellent. You can't go wrong with Vietnamese food.”
The La Purísima youth ministry manned the booth that sold waffles.
Curtis Le, 9, a member of the youth ministry, said his favorite activities at the festival are eating waffles and hanging out with his friends. C
LA PURÍSIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH IN ORANGE HOSTED A TASTE OF VIETNAM ON SEPT. 14 AND 15. PHOTOS BY EVERETT JOHNSON/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
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THE EUCHARIST THROUGH A CARDIOLOGIST'S EYES: FOUNDATIONS OF FAITH (PART 4)
BY DR. JOSE CACERES
PREVIOUSLY IN THIS SERIES, we explored the fascinating intersection of faith and science through Eucharistic miracles involving cardiac tissue. As a cardiologist, these miracles have deepened my understanding of both the heart and the Eucharist, revealing the profound connections between the physical and the spiritual. However, this integration of faith and science was not always easy, especially when I first arrived in the United States. The cultural landscape I encountered here was vastly different
from the one I had known in Peru, and it posed significant challenges to my worldview—challenges that would ultimately strengthen my faith and my commitment to scientific inquiry.
CULTURE SHOCK: FAITH AND SCIENCE DIVIDED
When I first arrived in the United States, I was struck by the stark contrast in how faith and science were often perceived and discussed. In Peru, my experience had been one of harmony between these two realms, where faith and science were seen as complementary ways of understanding the world. How-
1-800-364-3064 및
DR. JOSE CACERES
GUEST COLUMN
ever, in my new environment, I found that they were frequently positioned as adversaries.
The separation of church and state, while ensuring religious freedom, seemed to have created an unintended chasm between spiritual and scientific thought in many circles. In academic and professional settings, I often found myself in conversations where colleagues viewed my simultaneous embrace of rigorous scientific practice and deep Catholic faith as paradoxical, even contradictory. This cultural shift presented significant challenges to my worldview, making it difficult at times to maintain the integration of faith and science that had been so natural to me in Peru.
CHALLENGES TO INTEGRATION
In this new environment, I often felt pressure to compartmentalize my faith—to treat it as something separate from my scientific work. There were moments when I questioned whether I could maintain the integration of faith and reason that had been so foundational to my understanding of both science and spirituality. Defending my beliefs, particularly those concerning the Eucharist and Eucharistic miracles, required a deeper exploration of both theology and science.
One of the most difficult challenges came in the form of skepticism toward Eucharistic beliefs. The concept of transubstantiation, so central to my faith and unquestioned in my upbringing, was sometimes met with incredulity or outright dismissal in my new environment. I found myself having to articulate and defend beliefs that I had always taken for granted.
GROWTH THROUGH ADVERSITY
Despite these challenges, my experience in the United States ultimately led to significant growth in both my
faith and my scientific understanding. I realized that to bridge the perceived gap between faith and science, I needed to be well-versed in both theology and the scientific method. I immersed myself in the writings of great Catholic thinkers like St. Thomas Aquinas and St. John Paul II, who articulated the complementarity of faith and reason. At the same time, I redoubled my commitment to scientific excellence, understanding that the best way to demonstrate the compatibility of faith and science was to excel in my field while remaining true to my Catholic identity.
Perhaps most importantly, I learned to see these challenges as opportunities for growth and witness. Each question about my faith became a chance to share the beauty and rationality of Catholic teaching. Each skeptical remark about the Eucharist prompted me to immerse myself still further into the rich tradition of Eucharistic theology and the fascinating world of Eucharistic miracles. These experiences not only strengthened my faith but also deepened my appreciation for the profound mysteries of the Eucharist.
CONCLUSION
Navigating the cultural divide between faith and science in the United States was not easy, but it was a journey that ultimately enriched both my spiritual life and my professional practice. The challenges I faced forced me to develop a more robust, intellectually grounded faith that has served me well as both a cardiologist and a Catholic. Through these experiences, I came to a deeper understanding of the harmony between faith and science—a harmony that is most profoundly embodied in the miracle of the Eucharist.
Looking Ahead: In the next article, Dr. Caceres will conclude this series by reflecting on the ongoing journey of integrating faith and science, and how the Eucharist continues to inspire both his medical practice and his spiritual life. C
BUILDING ON TRADITION
FIVE DIOCESAN SCHOOLS GET CAMPUS UPGRADES
BY LORI ROSEHART
THE HUM OF POWER tools and the joyful sounds of children learning, playing and praying.
These two soundtracks resonate deeply with the communities at five North Orange County Catholic elementary schools, as both are essential to preserving the legacy of Catholic education. And with a pair of gold scissors in hand, Bishop Kevin Vann cut the ribbon and gave a blessing for the five newly upgraded campuses, made possible by the generous support of Shea Family Charities.
During the Sept. 16 ceremony at St. Barbara Catholic School in Santa Ana, dozens of students showcased their diverse talents and heartfelt appreciation through music, dance and prayer. “I don’t think you realize or understand the life-changing things you have brought to our schools. Our kids are safe because of you. You changed everything,” expressed Elva Pelayo, principal of St. Justin Martyr Catholic School.
From reassigning classrooms to relocating the administrative office and staff lounge, St. Barbara Catholic School underwent the largest transformation over the summer. The campus, which opened in 1963, now has a fresh, modern vibe and new outdoor learning space for the students. The remodel also included new lighting, roof repairs, improved bathrooms, paint, security cameras, an intercom system and new drinking fountains.
Over in the city of Orange, La Purísima Catholic School was enhanced with new exterior windows, lighting and roof repairs. The students were also blessed with a resurfaced playground for recess
and lunch and an improved pre-school restroom.
Children and staff at St. Justin Martyr Catholic School in Anaheim and St. Joseph Catholic School in Santa Ana can now enjoy the comfort of air conditioning in the parish hall, making it a welcome retreat on hot days. Roof repairs and the installation of new fencing at both schools, as well as at St. Anne Catholic School in Santa Ana, have strengthened the security of their
perimeters. Lastly, St. Justin Martyr had security doors and an intercom system installed.
Fr. Angelos Sebastian, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia of the Diocese of Orange said, “We want to provide the best opportunities for our children to excel and dream big. We want our children to grow in a Catholic environment, where they will become life-long disciples of our Lord, Jesus.”
According to Steve Cameron, exec-
utive director of The Orange Catholic Foundation (OCF), it's the dedication and support from others like Shea Family Charities that elevate these schools from having great potential to becoming truly outstanding: “We are in the process of making future saints. So, we need to grow these schools, and to do that, we need to continue to provide scholarships.”
If you feel called to make a difference
BISHOP KEVIN VANN CUTS A CEREMONIAL RIBBON AS FR. ANGELOS SEBASTIAN LOOKS ON TO CELEBRATE THE RECENT CAMPUS RENOVATIONS OF FIVE DIOCESAN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS. PHOTO BY EVERETT JOHNSON/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
THE FOLKLORICO DANCE GROUP FROM ST.
THE KINDERGARTEN CLASS FROM ST. BARBARA CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN SANTA ANA SANG "JESUS LOVES THE LITTLE CHILDREN" AS A HEARTFELT WAY TO EXPRESS THEIR GRATITUDE FOR THE SUPPORT THEY’VE RECEIVED.
and change a child’s life through Catholic education, let The Orange Catholic Foundation help you give more effectively. Whether it is a gift of stock, real estate, an IRA contribution or a gift through your estate, an OCF philanthropy officer would be happy to join your network of trusted advisors and show you how easy and impactful your next gift can be to the Catholic causes you care about most. To find out more information or to schedule a meeting, visit OrangeCatholicFoundation.org or call (714) 282-3021. C
JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL, SANTA ANA PERFORMED AT THE RIBBON CUTTING. PHOTOS BY EVERETT JOHNSON/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
STUDENTS FROM FIVE DIOCESAN SCHOOLS GIVE A WARM WELCOME TO BISHOP KEVIN VANN, SHEA FAMILY CHARITIES AND OTHER VISITORS FOR THE RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY HELD ON SEPT. 16.
ANNUAL MISSION GALA RAISES $300,000 FOR PRESERVATION, EDUCATION
BY PATTY MAHONEY
IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL night at Mission San Juan Capistrano as one of the premiere social events of the year — the “Romance of the Mission” benefit gala — was held amidst the historic Ruins and sacred grounds.
Over 400 guests gathered on Sept. 13 to honor Claudia and Randy Redwitz for their decades-long support of the Mission.
Randy founded his accounting firm Robert R. Redwitz & Co. in 1975, and the Mission became a client not long after. Claudia and Randy have spearheaded several educational and preservation projects at the Mission including the Gate Preservation House Project and the Mission Store.
Randy was honored in a 2022 special Legacy issue of Orange County Catholic for his unwavering dedication and support of the Diocese of Orange. For decades, he has donated his accounting talents to various initiatives — from the
financial management and development of Santa Margarita Catholic High School, to financial systems and audits of parishes and schools within the Diocese. Randy also oversaw the financial aspect of the restoration of the former Crystal Cathedral to the Christ Cathedral campus as well as other capital campaigns throughout the Diocese.
Mechelle Lawrence Adams, executive director of the Mission, told the gala crowd that Claudia and Randy are the only two honorees to have both attended the Mission School.
Randy, who is from Laguna Beach, and Claudia, who grew up in Tustin, both made the trek to San Juan Capistrano, back before there was a freeway to shorten the commute, to attend the Old Mission Parish School which temporarily housed both their Catholic elementary schools.
Although they don’t remember meeting then, their relationship blossomed in the late 1960s after Randy started a youth program at his home parish of Catherine of Siena in Laguna Beach.
“Part of the activities of our youth group was to sing at Mass,” Redwitz told Orange County Catholic. “The problem was, we had the kids but no one who could play an instrument.”
A parent told him there was a young woman named Claudia Gillespie who could play the piano and organ. And the
rest, as they say, is history.
Guests of the gala were treated to an intimate concert by the operatic trio Forte, who were finalists on “America’s Got Talent.” The vocalists performed in the Ruins of The Great Stone Church (circa 1812). A highlight was their rendition of “When the Swallows Come Back to Capistrano,” complete with a digital mapping/projection display of swallows in flight.
The night also featured the ringing of the historic Mission bells and dinner in the Central Courtyard provided by Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano.
The Reverend Monsignor J. Michael McKiernan, rector of Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano parish, offered the dinner blessing.
The evening was made possible due to the generosity of major underwriters including George and Eden O’Connell/O’Connell Family Foundation, the Moiso Family and many more Mission Preservation Foundation supporters. Roger’s Gardens in Newport provided the beautiful floral décor while Lugano of Newport Beach gifted exquisite flower stud diamond earrings valued at $18K for the opportunity drawing.
For more information and a complete listing of donors, friends and supporters visit www.missionsjc.com. To learn about how to pledge for next year’s gala on Sept. 19, 2025, contact Mechelle Lawrence Adams at (949) 234-1311. C
MUSICAL GUESTS PERFORM IN FRONT OF THE HISTORIC MISSION BELLS IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO.
GUESTS OF THIS YEAR’S ROMANCE OF THE MISSION GALA MAKE THEIR WAY INTO THE HISTORIC RUINS OF THE OLD STONE CHURCH ON SEPT. 13.
Join OC Catholic’s Recipe Swap!
Sharing recipes highlights the importance of gathering with family, friends and our broader Diocese of Orange faith community.
Please share your favorite recipes, along with your name and parish. Send your favorite seasonal dish, or a recipe that has special meaning to you or your family. Tell us why it’s important to you! Our editors will pick their favorites to be featured in OC Catholic throughout the year.
Submissions must include a photo of the completed recipe. Categories are entrees, appetizers, side dishes, beverages and desserts. Send your recipes and photos to: editor@occatholic.com
ANGEL OF GOD, MY GUARDIAN DEAR
BY REBEKAH VALDERRAMA
THE OTHER DAY, I was leaving the store with a loaded cart and my four young kids. We reached the edge of the sidewalk, pausing to regroup before we crossed to our car, and the second I turned to check where my 3-yearold was, was the second my 2-year-old picked to hop off the curb by himself. Not every story of guardian angels intervening involves a dramatic tap on the shoulder. Sometimes it’s just the moment when I turned around in time to see what my baby was trying to put into his mouth. Every day, in one little incident or another, I find another reason to be grateful to our guardian angels.
My personal devotion to the guardian angels has grown since the conception of my first child. I’ve become more and more aware of their presence and help. With four children around me almost every minute of my life, I’m literally surrounded by angels all day, and in those moments of panic, like when my son steps into the parking lot without me, or when someone cuts me off in traffic, I’m especially grateful.
I’ve recently learned that the belief in guardian angels is not a stated doctrine, but a very ancient tradition that even predates the Church itself. I can recommend a recent episode of the “Jimmy Akin’s Mysterious World” podcast for a full history and evaluation. Long story short, it’s not known for certain that we have one singular angel assigned only to us from conception, but that is the popular understanding, and it fits what Jesus said in Matthew 18:10, “See that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven.”
Your angel is an immense asset to you, as a dear friend who wants what’s best
for you both physically and spiritually, and who never tires in interceding for you to God. It’s only fitting that we honor their place in our lives, and frequently appeal to them in our daily needs, both large and small.
Pray to your angel daily, and those of your children, spouse, and family. Make a habit of crying out to him first when you find yourself in a frightening situation and thanking him first when a crisis is averted. Teach your children the prayer to their guardian angel and pray it frequently.
Your angel wants your holiness above all, so he is a great resource to turn to in the midst of spiritual struggles. Ask for his intercession when you’re facing temptations. Invoke his help against demonic attacks. I often ask my guardian angel to hold my distracting thoughts while I try to focus on prayer. In fact, most of my prayers to my guardian angel
are short bursts from the heart of both requests and gratitude.
One important note, the Church actively discourages trying to find out the name of your guardian angel, or of giving him a name yourself. Angels have names, but it’s not our place to know them. The Vatican explicitly states in its “Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy” that “The practice of assigning names to the Holy Angels should be discouraged, except in the cases of Gabriel, Raphael and Michael, whose names are contained in Holy Scripture.”
We celebrate the feast of the guardian angels this week, on Oct. 2. This is the perfect opportunity to renew your relationship with your angel, with gratitude to God for this beautiful asset to your spiritual life. Your guardian angel is your best friend who wants you to be holy so you can spend eternity in heaven together. Entrust yourself to his love and care.C
PHOTO BY HELEN MAJSKA ON UNSPLASH
OC Catholic Afar
Alexandra Celano holds a copy of Orange County Catholic outside St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City during a family trip there this summer.
The cathedral is a must-see for the many tourists visiting the Big Apple, and it has been said that over a million prayer candles are lit there every year.
—Alexandra is a parishioner of St. Timothy Catholic Church in Laguna Niguel.
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.
