Retirement Fund
for Religious
Please give to those who have given a lifetime.
Our aging religious need your help. Like those pictured, more than 24,000 senior sisters, brothers, and religious order priests have dedicated their lives to serving others through prayer and ministry. Today, their religious communities do not have enough retirement savings to care for them. Your support of the Retirement Fund for Religious helps provide care, medicine, and other necessities. Please give back to those who have given a lifetime.
Please donate at your local parish, November 30–December 1, or by mail at: National Religious Retirement Office/ORAS 3211 Fourth Street NE Washington DC 20017-1194 Make check payable to Retirement Fund for Religious.
8 12
16
DECEMBER 1, 2024
CONTENTS
SINGING THE SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS
The Diocese’s parish music ministries have prepared their concert season schedules for the holidays.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
St. Juliana Falconieri School’s fundraising efforts during October resulted in a $3,281 donation to St. Jude’s Hospital.
CATHOLIC
CHARITIES AUXILIARY SHOWS ITS STYLE
The “Color Me Fashion” show brought together more than 200 attendees for a fun event to raise money for community programs.
ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC MISSION STATEMENT
The Orange County Catholic Newspaper seeks to illuminate and animate the journey of faith for Catholics within the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange – building solidarity among the faithful and inviting a deeper understanding and involvement in the mission of Christ – through the timely sharing of news, commentary and feature content in an engaging, accessible and compelling format.
ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC
The Official Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange Diocese of Orange Pastoral Center, 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove 92840
Publisher: The Most Reverend Kevin W. Vann, Bishop of Orange
Executive Editor: Jarryd Gonzales
Managing Editor: Patricia Mahoney, editor@occatholic.com
News Ideas: editor@occatholic.com
Delivery Problems: occatholicsupport@occatholic.com
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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.
NATIVITY SCENE
READER CALL-OUT
Do you have a special Nativity Scene you’d like to share with OC Catholic? Please send a photo and include your name, parish and a brief description to: editor@occatholic. com C
“ There are good rich people, saints, who are not attached to wealth.”
— Pope Francis
SAINT PROFILE
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY IS 2:1-5; PS 122:1-2, 3-4B, 4CD-5, 6-7, 8-9; MT 8:5-11
TUESDAY
IS 11:1-10; PS 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17; LK 10:21-24
WEDNESDAY IS 25:6-10A; PS 23:1-3A, 3B-4, 5, 6; MT 15:29-37
THURSDAY IS 26:1-6; PS 118:1 AND 8-9, 19-21, 25-27A; MT 7:21, 24-27
ELIGIUS C. 588-660
AN ARTISAN, ELIGIUS WAS apprenticed to the master of the mint in Limoges, France. While he held a similar post in Marseille, King Dagobert I became his patron. With a talent for metalwork of all kinds, he became wealthy enough to found a monastery at Solignac and a convent in Paris. In 641 he was named bishop of Noyon and Tournai, where he founded religious houses, commenced missionary activity among the pagan Frisians and aided the poor. Some of his reliquaries and other artworks survive; Eligius is the patron saint of smiths, farriers and metalworkers.C
FRIDAY
IS 29:17-24; PS 27:1, 4, 13-14; MT 9:27-31
PHOTOS: CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE, SHUTTERSTOCK
SATURDAY
IS 30:19-21, 2326; PS 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; MT 9:35–10:1, 5A, 6-8
SUNDAY BAR 5:1-9; PS 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6; PHIL 1:4-6, 8-11; LK 3:1-6
PHOTO BY NICK FEWINGS ON UNSPLASH
PAX CHRISTI ACADEMIES BEGINS NEW MODEL FOR CATHOLIC SCHOOL MANAGEMENT AND FUNDING
BY MEG WATERS
IT’S A NATIONAL TREND that has many U.S. Catholic educators concerned: declining Catholic school enrollment.
In the past 10 years, Catholic school (PK-12) enrollment in the U.S. has fallen 14 percent, losing more than 281,000 students, according to the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA).
In the Diocese of Orange, a new network of Catholic K-8 schools, Pax Christi Academies, is working to buck that trend.
"We are in an age and a time where we have to take a look at things in a different way,” said Bishop Kevin Vann. “Pax Christi Academies allows a network of our Catholic schools to work together, share resources and support each other to serve our students.”
Pax Christi Academies began after an analysis of the financial health of diocesan schools, which found that in the past 20 years eight schools in the Diocese were closed, and many of the schools in North and Central Orange County were only 60 percent full.
“We didn’t view these schools as liabilities but as assets and opportunities for growth,” said Fr. Angelos Sebastian, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia of the Diocese of Orange. “We’re grateful that Bishop Vann had the vision to dream big and support the creation of Pax Christi Academies.”
While many diocesan schools were working well under the current governing structure, it became clear that certain schools needed a new governance model to turn the situation around, said Steve Cameron, chairman of the Pax Christi Academies board of directors. Thus, Pax Christi Academies was born.
“Pax Christi Academies will focus heavily on excellence and accountability while supporting teachers and students
to reignite their faith and love of Catholic education,” Cameron said. “We think of it as a new way to form saints.”
Pax Christi Academies includes five schools under a stand-alone nonprofit created to support and promote Catholic education in the Diocese of Orange. It has its own governing board of directors and management and raises funds independently. The Pax Christi Academies schools include La Purísima, Orange; St. Justin Martyr, Anaheim; and in Santa Ana, St. Anne, St. Barbara and St. Joseph.
When the board first met in late 2022, the first order of business was to establish four foundational pillars of faith, intellect, character and citizenship, which drives curriculum and aims to serve children with a broad spectrum of needs, from those with learning challenges to the exceptionally gifted. Most importantly, the board of directors focused on fundraising so that any student, regardless of his or her family situation, can obtain a top-quality Catholic education.
In fact, under the Pax Christi Academies model, the board is evaluating the eight closed diocesan schools with the aim to reopen them, a goal contrary to the national trend of Catholic school closures.
“From my research, the model we have developed is unique among Catholic schools in the U.S.,” Cameron said. “I think this can be the way forward for many dioceses that struggle to provide Catholic education to any family who desires the blessings of Catholic teaching for their children.”
Early this year, Cameron and the board also initiated a national search for an accomplished educational leader to serve as president, implement the Pax Christi vision and lead the management team.
The board found their ideal leader in
LA PURÍSIMA CATHOLIC SCHOOL (ORANGE) STUDENTS SHOW THEIR LOVE FOR OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE. PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAX CHRISTI ACADEMIES
YOUNG ST. BARBARA CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE READY FOR SCHOOL IN SANTA ANA.
Leadership.
“Pax Christi Academies’ promise is to form saints,” Dr. Arellano said. “Our commitment to blend strong academics with our Catholic faith fosters intellectual and spiritual growth, while nurturing a virtuous life.”
the board can make data-driven decisions swiftly to support program success, improve student performance, analyze enrollment patterns and evaluate faculty effectiveness.
kids is happening."
Dr. Christina Arellano, who took the helm of Pax Christi schools on July 1. She is unusual in Catholic education as she has both significant educational accomplishments and solid business acumen. Dr. Arellano is entrepreneurial and had a successful career in business before she went into education. She has a master’s degree in Catholic School Administration, holds an MBA in finance and a doctorate in Educational
So far, the reaction from the five school principals has been very positive.
For more information about Pax Christi Academies, please visit www.paxchristiacademies.org. C CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
Unique in the Pax Christi approach is using data to establish measurable metrics. By analyzing data that is constantly collected, Dr. Arellano said she, her team and
Elva Pelayo, principal at St. Justin Martyr, said recently, "Pax Christi is a huge blessing. Since I first heard about it, I knew it would work. God answered all my prayers, and everything I wanted for the
Bishop Vann is also enthusiastic about the prospects that lie ahead: “Pax Christi Academies strengthens and continues the mission we’ve had for years: to provide excellent Catholic education so students may live out their faith and share it with the world.”
YOUNG STUDENTS FROM ST. BARBARA CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN SANTA ANA SMILE FOR THE CAMERA. PHOTO COURTESY OF PAX CHRISTI
HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS USE IRA TO FULFILL NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION
BY LORI ROSEHART
FOR GENE AND JUDY, a blind date at a drive-in theater more than 65 years ago led to marriage and family. It was a second “blind date”—or rather an unexpected visit from a priest and The Orange Catholic Foundation (OCF) that reinforced their New Year’s resolution to “get serious” about philanthropy in 2024.
Motivated by the decline in faith in society and the desire to bring others to Christ, the couple, who attends Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in San Clemente, recently named their parish and OCF as beneficiaries on their Individual Retirement Account (IRA).
Gene said it just made sense: “If the 10% tithing guideline is good enough while you’re alive, then why not use it as a guideline when you die?” (Leviticus 27:30, Genesis 28:20–22)
Gene, confirmed Catholic in 2021, and Judy, a Mater Dei High School alumna, also chose this charitable path to avoid income tax consequences for their loved ones.
He stated, “If you are in an estate tax situation when you leave your IRAs to your family, they are double taxed basically. Where the church gets it at 100% value.”
Gene and Judy hadn’t considered the IRA beneficiary giving strategy until the doorbell rang in December 2023. The holiday visit with Fr. Scott Borgman, former Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church Parochial Vicar, and OCF’s Philanthropy Officer, Anthony Vultaggio, sparked a series of philanthropic conversations, renewing Gene and Judy’s love for their Catholic faith and inspiring them to get more involved in parish life.
Fr. Scott shared, “Everything God gives us is meant to be shared. Part of that is making an investment with what God has
given you through what you have now and even what you may have at the end of your life.”
WHY WORKING WITH A PHILANTHROPY OFFICER IS ESSENTIAL
Gene and Judy realized the importance of having a philanthropy officer as part of their advisory network. With the help of Vultaggio, they explored several non-cash giving options and decided that updating their IRA beneficiary listings would be best.
“My dad instilled in me: save, save, save,” said Gene, a retired engineer and real estate investor. “So, I always had the maximum amount put into my retirement plan.” The couple humbly joked that their IRA beneficiary designation gifts “are not a Bill Gates number but it is enough to pay the light bill” and will support those who are “doing a lot of good work” for the Catholic Church, healthcare and the homeless.
HOW EASY IS IT TO UPDATE YOUR IRA BENEFICIARY
To leave your retirement assets for the benefit of your parish, a Catholic school or other Catholic ministry, complete a beneficiary designation form provided by your retirement plan custodian. Your IRA assets won’t be taxed at your death, ensuring 100% of your gift benefits others.
Want to learn more? Let The Orange Catholic Foundation show you how easy and impactful your next gift can be to the Catholic causes you care about most. Visit OrangeCatholicFoundation.org or call (714) 282-3021 to schedule a meeting with a philanthropy officer. Last names were withheld for privacy. Note: The Orange Catholic Foundation does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. Always consult a tax professional for guidance. C
IN OCTOBER 2024, GENE AND JUDY (CENTER) JOINED THE CATHOLIC PROFESSIONAL MASS AND MIXER HOSTED BY THE ORANGE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION AND CHARLES INSTITUTE. PHOTO BY STEVE RIN
SINGING THE SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS
AS ADVENT SEASON BEGINS, FOUR SINGERS SHARE THE JOY THEY FIND IN BEING PART OF A MUSIC MINISTRY
DURING THE HOLIDAYS
BY MIKE VULPO
THE BEST WAY TO spread
Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.
With the Advent season officially here, music ministries at various Orange County Catholic Churches are arranging special concerts and songs for parishioners ready to mark the most wonderful time of the year.
“I love hearing everyone sing ‘O Come, O Come, Emmanuel’ for the first time during Advent,” Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church Director of Music Ministries Dr. Patricia Lamb shared. “Another favorite moment is our choir concert on Christmas Eve before Mass during the night. We have a small orchestra along with the choir, and it adds so much beauty to the celebration.”
In celebration of the Advent season, we’re spotlighting church singers who are ready to share their love of holiday music with the Masses.
MADISON MITCHELL, SANTA CLARA DE ASIS CATHOLIC CHURCH CANTOR
For nearly two years, Mitchell has been a member of the SCDA music ministry. As she prepares to sing with parishioners this holiday season, the Broadway actress is grateful to use her voice to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
“My favorite aspect of being part of the music ministry during the Advent and Christmas season is focusing on songs that have Marian devotion and songs that dwell on the theme of waiting and longing for the birth of Christ,”
said Mitchell. “I love the penitential season of Advent and then the beautiful celebratory season of Christmas in our Catholic faith.”
While she loves to sing traditional songs like “O Holy Night, “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Silent Night” and “Joy to the World,” Mitchell praises one special song she learned at SCDA.
“For the final week of Advent last year, I learned a song called ‘Be Born in Me,’ originally sung by Francesca Battistelli and written by Bernie Herms and Nichole Nordeman,” she recalled. “It was a beautiful and humbling song to sing, written from the perspective of Mary carrying Jesus in her womb.”
MADELINE MERCHANT, HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH CANTOR
The Santa Margarita Catholic High School student is ready to celebrate the Christmas season at Holy Trinity’s youth Masses as well as the church’s annual Christmas concert and celebration this December.
“My favorite part about being in the music ministry during Christmas time is being able to perform at the Joy to the World concert,” she shared. “It is always great to see the community that Holy Trinity has built. It is also amazing to get to watch the young performers share their talents with our community.”
The high school senior hopes to perform her favorite Christmas songs including “O Holy Night” and “Light of the World” by Lauren Daigle.
“Christmas music, especially at church,” Merchant explained, “is truly unmatched.”
AMANDA ORTIZ, SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA CATHOLIC CHURCH MUSIC DIRECTOR
The countdown is on for Santiago de
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA CATHOLIC CHURCH MUSIC DIRECTOR AMANDA ORTIZ RECEIVES FLOWERS AFTER A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE. PHOTO BY AMANDA ORTIZ
FROM PAGE 8
Compostela’s annual Christmas concert. Scheduled for Dec. 6, the special event is Ortiz’s favorite part about being a member of the church’s music ministry.
“Noel Night is a huge collaboration between the volunteer singers and musicians from our English, Spanish and Filipino choirs, our staff, clergy, religious education program and other ministries,” she explained. “The concert’s vibes are fun, and it’s cool to see our diverse church community come together to support each other and get excited to kick off the Advent and Christmas season.”
If Ortiz had to pick her absolute favorite song to sing during the Christmas season, she would choose “We Adore” by Sarah Hart.
“I first sang it back when I was a kid in the children’s choir at Santiago, and the lyrics reflecting on how baby Jesus would grow up and sacrifice Himself to save us really touched me,” she reflected. “I also love how it’s such a versatile song that can be dressed up with harmonies and adapted to different ensembles. Now, I look forward to doing it every Christmas Mass with our kids and adult choirs.”
Other special songs Ortiz loves include Albert Taulé’s “Un Niño Nos Ha Nacido,” Justin Bieber’s version of “Drummer Boy” and the classic song “Angels We Have Heard on High.”
SAMANTHA DOMINGUEZ, ST. KILIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
No matter which of the seven weekend Masses St. Kilian parishioners choose to attend, Dominguez hopes the music ministry makes the Advent Season extra special for all attendees.
“I look forward to collaborating with so many gifted musicians, and to share the beautiful story of the birth of Jesus with the community through music,”
Dominguez shared. “Each year, St. Killian Music Ministry comes together to perform a lovely, spirited concert and it is easily one of the highlights of the year for me.”
On Dec. 20, all are welcome to attend St. Kilian’s annual Christmas concert.
The event will feature St. Kilian choirs, ensembles, cantors, chamber orchestra and Catherine Forbush on the piano.
While Dominguez is keeping the concert playlist top secret for now, she couldn’t help but share some of her favorite songs of the season.
“One of my favorite songs during this time is ‘O Come, O Come Emmanuel,’” she said. “I think it is such a beautiful song, and the advent season feels incomplete without hearing it. Another song I enjoy is ‘Joy to the World.’ It encompasses the joy and spirit of Christmas perfectly.”
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본당내의 성적학대 신고
MADISON MITCHELL AND OTHER SANTA CLARA DE ASIS CATHOLIC CHURCH SINGERS PERFORM DURING MASS. PHOTO BY KIERNAN COLIFLORES
OC CATHOLIC RECIPE SWAP ROSEMARY GARLIC BREAD
THIS RECIPE IS ONE of my family’s favorites. We gift it to neighbors and friends every year. I hope someone else enjoys it as much as we do!
—Astrid Carias Baloun, St. Nicholas parish in Laguna Woods
DIRECTIONS
Let dough rise for 1 hour. Prep pan with 2 tbsp. oil for baking.
After 1 hour, let rise for another 15 minutes on baking pan.
Add a slice of butter on top of each round mound of dough.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Place in oven and bake for 18-20 minutes.
Serve with soups, balsamic vinegar or olive oil.
Enjoy! C
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. yeast
1 tbsp. sugar
1 cup warm water
2 tsp. rosemary
1 tsp. dry basil
1 tsp. oregano
1/3 cup parmesan cheese
6 cloves minced garlic
2 ½ cups flour
PHOTO COURTESY OF ASTRID CARIAS BALOUN
WALKING THE CAMINO
BY MIKE ZINN
THE POPULAR CAMINO DE Santiago walk can start on various pilgrimage routes, ending in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This path is also called The Way of St. James, The Camino or simply The Way.
This pilgrimage was created and established after the discovery of the St. James the Great relics at the beginning of the 9th century. From the 10th century to today, The Way of St. James has become a significant pilgrimage for Christians worldwide.
Although there are many starting points and paths to Santiago de Compostela, The French Way is considered the most popular and widely used route. (Caminoways.com)
This route might be the most popular for a couple of reasons. Starting this route at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France, located approximately 45 minutes by car from the Biarritz airport, is a desirable starting point. Another more spiritual reason is the difficulty of this starting point up and over the Pyrenees Mountain range. Giving oneself to God despite hardships is never more apparent than hiking up and over this mountain range, with challenging rises and drops in elevation and possibly wind, rain, fog and cold weather.
Three events have made this journey universally popular. The first was when Pope John Paul II became “the First Pilgrim Pope” to arrive at the Cathedral of Santiago in 1982, and the second event in 1989 for the fourth World Youth Day. The Pope traveled the last 100 meters, walking with pilgrims to the Praza do Obradoiro.
The third event was the introduction of the movie “The Way” in 2010. American actor Emilio Estevez wrote,
produced and directed this movie. Estevez had a small role in the film, which starred his father, actor Martin Sheen. The movie is still popular with people worldwide and has inspired countless pilgrims on their journey.
Walking The Camino can be designed in several different ways. Pilgrims with adequate time can choose to complete the 790-kilometer (490-mile) journey from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela in one trip. Others may split The Camino into sections and complete their journey over years. Regardless, pilgrims love the beautiful countryside, incredible history and friendly locals and fellow travelers who greet each other with the Spanish phrase, buen camino, translated to “good walk.”
The Camino offers pilgrims multiple opportunities to informally and formally connect with God. Encountering shrines, statues and grottos along the path and visiting wonderful historical churches in small towns, larger towns, villages and hamlets highlight the Catholic Church in Europe and the rich history preserved for modern-day pilgrims to enjoy. The “pilgrim’s Mass” is a highlight for travelers and allows Catholics worldwide to worship together and be recognized and prayed over by the presiding priest.
During a recent Pilgrim’s Mass, Fr. Andre’s Pico’n from the Diocese de Ciudad Real described The Camino to the congregation.
“We all do The Camino for different reasons, religious, solitude, communing with nature and testing our fitness level. Still, the one thing all pilgrims have in common is that they have Jesus walking with them the entire journey.”
Mike Zinn and his family recently walked sections of The Camino, starting in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. The family broke off after four days, and Mike and his wife Teri continued onto Burgos. This 273-kilometer, 170-mile journey completed the entire walk for Teri that started some 10 years ago. C
ST. JAMES STATUE IN VIANA, SPAIN.
A CAMINO IMAGE FROM IGLESIAS DE SANTA MARIA, BELORADO.
PRAYING THE ROSARY ALONG THE PATH.
THE CAMINO: ALWAYS FOLLOW THE BLUE AND YELLOW ARROW. PHOTOS BY MIKE ZINN
PARROQUIA DE SANTA MARIA DE LOS ARCOS.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
ST. JULIANA FALCONIERI SCHOOL SUPPORTS ST. JUDE’S HOSPITAL AND THE FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER
BY BELINDA ESPINOZA
ST. JULIANA FALCONIERI students worked hard collecting funds during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to distribute to St. Jude’s Hospital in Fullerton. Pink shirts were sold to students at the school to help raise funds. These shirts can be worn on specific school days throughout the school year. A few parents who work at St. Jude Hospital helped coordinate this amazing service project.
The school is very grateful to the parents at St. Juliana School and the staff at the hospital for coordinating this schoolwide effort to raise funds for breast cancer awareness. During morning assembly on Nov. 18, the school presented a check to St. Jude’s Hospital in the amount of $3,281. The school’s principal, Dr. Manuel Gonzales, Jr. told students at the morning assembly that his own family has battled this type of cancer with the death of his sister.
“Breast cancer holds a deeply personal significance for me, and witnessing the incredible outpouring of love and support from our school community has been truly heartwarming,” shared Dr. Gonzales, “Your generosity and compassion reflect the strength and unity that make our school so special.”
He continued, “I am especially grateful to the parents and individuals on our campus who dedicate their time and energy to supporting those affected by breast cancer. Your efforts not only inspire hope but also make a real difference in the lives of many.”
Fr. Michael Pontarelli, pastor of St. Juliana, also told the students that “the best thing we can do, really, is to help others the
PRESENTING A CHECK FOR $3,231 ARE, FROM LEFT, NOREEN JUNG, ST. JUDE DIRECTOR OF DONOR ENGAGEMENT, MARIE SLOAN, ST. JUDE MANAGER OF DONOR ENGAGEMENT, DARYL ITURRALDE, ST. JUDE EMPLOYEE & ST. JULIANA PARENT, ETHAN CHO, ST. JULIANA STUDENT & VP OF STUDENT COUNCIL, BRYCE PELLICER, ST. JULIANA STUDENT PRES. OF STUDENT COUNCIL, DUB DRESS, ST. JUDE CHIEF PHILANTHROPY OFFICER, DR. COURTNEY VITO, ST. JUDE MEDICAL DIRECTOR, BREAST CANCER PROGRAM & ST. JULIANA PARENT, GENEVIEVE TAGUINOD, ST. JUDE EMPLOYEE & ST. JULIANA PARENT, MARTHA JACOBS, ST. JUDE EMPLOYEE & ST. JULIANA PARENT, AND NATALIE VALLE, ST. JUDE EMPLOYEE & ST. JULIANA PARENT. PHOTO BY STEVEN GEORGES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
DR. MANUEL GONZALES JR., PRINCIPAL OF ST. JULIANA FALCONIERI CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN FULLERTON, TALKS TO THE KIDS DURING AN ASSEMBLY ABOUT THEIR SCHOOL RAISING $3,231 FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH BEFORE PRESENTING THE CHECK TO PROVIDENCE ST. JUDE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION.
same that we help ourselves. It’s because you’ve done something of service, you’ve done something in love, and for that we all say thank you!”
School parent Molly Webb shared her feelings about the assembly.
“To watch our school come together for such a special and important cause was a
REV. MICHAEL PONTARELLI, O.S.M. , PASTOR OF ST. JULIANA FALCONIERI CATHOLIC CHURCH, ADDRESSES STUDENTS DURING AN ASSEMBLY WHERE THE SCHOOL DONATED A CHECK TO FOR $3,231 TO PROVIDENCE ST. JUDE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION.
truly inspiring and emotional experience,” she shared. “I told my kids, when you wear your Pink Spirit Shirts, wear them with pride. You are a kind of superhero and you are doing your part to help others.”
Dr. Gonzales expressed his desire to continue the school’s support of St. Jude’s Hospital.
“As we continue our shared mission,” he shared, “I am excited to collaborate further with our wonderful school community to support St. Jude’s Hospital and its invaluable contributions to breast cancer care and research. Together, we can amplify our impact and stand united in the fight against this disease.” C
ST. HEDWIG’S NEW PLAYGROUND
BY BRITNEY ZINT
AFTER EIGHT WEEKS OF waiting, the school’s littlest learners patiently, but excitedly, waited for the final countdown. TK students dressed in blue and green plaid clutched the red ribbon while kindergartners huddled up and everyone counted down from 10. With the ribbon cut, it was finally time to do what little learners do best — play.
St. Hedwig Catholic School in Los Alamitos celebrated the opening of its new TK and kindergarten playground on Nov. 8 with a blessing, ribbon cutting and cake as families, friends and alumni watched.
“What a great day today as we cele-
brate this new chapter for our school community and our TK and kinder-land down here,” said Principal Chris McGuiness. “What an honor to stand before you as we officially open up our brand-new playground — a space where creativity, laughter and physical activity will flourish for years and years to come.”
Fr. Quan Tran blessed the new equipment before the play began.
“This is a very exciting day, blessing our new playground,” Fr. Quan said. “And like Mr. McGuiness said, play is important. I’m learning that, so I’m going to play too.”
The new equipment and AstroTurf over foam mats replaced broken, aging equipment on sand that was from 1996 and no longer ADA compliant, said Christina Hunt, St. Hedwig’s facilities manager and admissions coordinator. The cost of the new playground is estimated at $120,000.
The play structure was also made bigger to accommodate the school’s number of TK and kinder students, which has been growing steadily over the last four years, McGuiness said.
The new play place was a big hit with the children who laughed, screamed and ran around trying out all the new features.
“So beautiful,” TK student Jimmie Lands, 5, said of the new equipment. He said he was most excited for the “slides, the stairs, the monkey bars.”
The dream of a newer, safer space was kick started with a $10,000 donation four years ago. After that, the school “carved money out” every year to save up, McGuiness said.
The play space is more than just a place to have fun, McGuiness said.
“It’s a space where young minds grow, where friends are formed, and where children can develop important life skills,” he added. “Whether it’s climbing or swinging or playing tag, the lessons learned on a playground will help shape confidence, coordina-
TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN AND KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS GET TO PLAY ON THEIR NEW PLAYGROUND AFTER THE EQUIPMENT WAS BLESSED ON NOV. 8 AT ST. HEDWIG CATHOLIC SCHOOL
tion and creativity for our students. It will provide them the opportunity to engage with each other in meaningful ways and enjoy a break from their classroom routines, which is so important for their overall growth.”
The students have been waiting for the new equipment, watching the process from demolition to the final nuts and bolts, said TK teacher Nicole Vasquez.
“I think they wanted to know why we are getting a new one,” she said. “So it was, the old one was broken. It didn’t work anymore, so now we have a new one where we can play safe. They want to know why. Everything is why. Why are we getting rid of it? What’s wrong with it?”
For Vasquez, this is the third kinder playground she has seen. An alumna herself, Vasquez remembers the wooden playground she played on in her time, and she was in eighth grade in 1996 when they installed the last one.
Vasquez is the second generation to attend St. Hedwig. Her mother, and now her two children, attend.
Vasquez’s mother and fellow alumna, Susan Prado, said she was honored her grandchildren were attending her alma mater. The school has a place in her heart and fond memories of school traditions, like pancake breakfasts and talent shows. It also laid the foundation for her to build a faith-based family.
“First and foremost, St. Hedwig’s is a place of love and peace and home,” Prado said. “It’s home. I’ve always felt very safe and comfortable here.” C
ST. HEDWIG CATHOLIC SCHOOL PRINCIPAL CHRIS MCGUINESS AND REV. QUAN TRAN CUT THE RED RIBBON OFFICIALLY OPENING UP THE SCHOOL'S NEW TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN AND KINDERGARTEN PLAYGROUND ON NOV. 8 IN LOS ALAMITOS.
THREE GENERATIONS OF ST. HEDWIG'S CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS ATTEND THE BLESSING OF ITS NEW PLAYGROUND ON NOV. 8. GRANDMOTHER SUSAN PRADO, DAUGHTER NICOLE VASQUEZ, AND GRANDDAUGHTER GIANNA VASQUEZ CAME OUT TO CELEBRATE THE NEW PLAYGROUND. PHOTOS BY STEVE GEORGES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
CATHOLIC CHARITIES AUXILIARY SHOWS ITS STYLE
BY MEG WATERS
FOR THE LADIES OF Catholic Charities Auxiliary, it was an afternoon of style, long-time friendships and laughter with some help from their friends in the Knights of Columbus. For all the fun, the festivities supported the Auxiliary’s vital mission to assist Catholic Charities of Orange County through fundraising, volunteer work and public awareness.
Co-directors Diane Tippets and Kate McGregor created a team that raised over $20,000 to support Catholic Charities’ work to feed the hungry, console the hurting and care for the marginalized.
Held at San Antonio de Padua
Parish in Anaheim Hills, the “Color Me Fashion” show involved the Chapter’s 45 members and the Knights of Columbus Council 9195, who served lunch to the more than 200 women in attendance. According to Vice President of Membership Brenda Ames, “Our chapter members work hard all year to raise funds through various events and also provide volunteer support for Catholic Charities at the Dorothy Cantlay Food Distribution Center in Santa Ana. In 2023, we raised nearly $160,000.”
Upon entering the event, guests enjoyed boutiques from local businesses offering clothing, jewelry, PRISCILLA
CONTINUES ON PAGE 17
ROBLEDO WAS ONE OF THE MANY VENDORS AT THE EVENT. PHOTOS BY EVERETT JOHNSON/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
CATHOLIC CHARITIES AUXILIARY’S FASHION SHOW WAS HELD ON NOV. 12 AT SAN ANTONIO DE PADUA PARISH IN ANAHEIM HILLS.
DAVE RIME AND DIANE TIPPETS WITH A $4000 YELLOW GOLD/DIAMOND CROSS NECKLACE DONATED BY RIME.
accessories and other items for sale with a percentage donated.
David Rime, owner of Anaheim Hills Jewelry & Coin and a Knight, donated a spectacular diamond cross necklace for the silent auction. In addition to being a donor, Rime also donned an apron and waited tables.
“I’ve been doing this for many years,” said Rime. “The San Antonio parish and the Knights are happy to help the Auxiliary and Catholic Charities — we’re all family.”
Sally Ann Catering of Placentia provided the luncheon buffet and contributed at the Gold sponsor level.
Many ladies donated items valued at $25 or more for “mystery” boxes, which were then wrapped and made available for purchase at $25 each.
DIOCESAN NEWS
Auxiliary co-director Kate McGregor, who has been active in the Auxiliary for 25 years, noted that the Auxiliary is celebrating its 50th year in 2024.
“We’ve been helping Catholic Charities since before the Diocese of Orange was established,” she shared.
Co-director Diane Tippets has been a member of the auxiliary for six years.
“This is such a passionate organization made up of people who want to give of their time and treasure,” she said.
Auxiliary President Suzanne Land narrated the fashion show, which was curated and presented by Karen Goodsell and Maria Teixeira of Chic Revelations, a women’s clothing boutique in Yorba Linda. The show featured fashions from casual to formal, elegantly modeled by Catholic Charities leader-
ship and Auxiliary members. Models included CCOC Executive Director Ellen Roy, Finance Director Juliana Silva and Marketing Director Mariajose Garorti. Members of the Auxiliary also modeled, including Karen Castro, Martha Schneiders and Jeannette Chastain.
Martha Schnieders has been a chapter
member for 15 years and loves volunteering.
“The easiest way to do our works of mercy is to be a part of an organization like this whose mission is to support the good work of Catholic Charities,” she said, “who serve and comfort people right here in Orange County.” C
GUEST MODELS FOR THE DAY: MARTHA SCHNEIDERS, JEANETTE CHASTAIN, MARIAJOSE GARORTI, JULIANA SILVA, ELLEN ROY AND KAREN CASTRO.
ELLEN ROY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF ORANGE COUNTY, WALKS IN THE FASHION SHOW. PHOTOS BY EVERETT JOHNSON/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
THE BATTLE OF ADVENT
BY JOAN PATTEN, AO
“IT WAS THE BEST of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness...” This famous excerpt from Charles Dickinson’s A Tale of Two Cities comes to mind as I contemplate the upcoming holiday season. Even if it’s a favorite time of the year, it’s overwhelming to assume additional holiday preparations and activities to our busy lives.
However, the stress we may experience during this time pales in comparison to the tension we see lived out in society during this time of year. Consumerism and busyness are celebrated, silence and simplicity are abandoned, and Jesus, the “Reason for the Season” is forgotten.
To save us from the frenzied Christmas experience society offers us, the Church provides us another way, the season of Advent. Each week during the liturgy, a candle is lit on the Advent wreath, and we are invited to examine what we need to “give up” in order to welcome Christ more deeply into our lives. The Church invites us to prepare our hearts as well as our homes as we anticipate the Nativity of Our Lord and His coming again at the end of time.
During the first week of Advent, we pray for the virtue of hope. The opening prayer (collect) for the first Sunday of Advent directs us to ask God for a great desire “to meet your Christ with righteous deeds at his coming” so as to “be worthy to possess the heavenly Kingdom.” Hope is an act of trust that lifts our hearts beyond despair because it increases our desire for the good things God has promised us, primarily eternal life with Him in Heaven. Let the gift of hope transform all fear and despair that attempts to seize your heart as you prepare for Christ’s coming.
During the second week of Advent, we pray for the grace of peace. Peace is
the gift that the world cannot give. Jesus is the source of peace, and the Church prays in the collect for this week, “may no earthly undertaking hinder those who set out in haste to meet your Son, but “may our learning of heavenly wisdom gain us admittance to his company.” Many spiritual writers teach us that whatever our circumstances or activities may be, there is no acceptable reason to give up our peace. When the world tempts us to be busy and stressed about all the things we need to do and prepare, we can ask for the grace to remain in the Lord’s presence and receive His peace.
As the feast of the Nativity of the Lord draws closer, the third week of Advent reorients our preoccupation with our miseries and disordered appetite for earthly goods and turns our hearts to “attain the joys of so great a salvation, and to celebrate them always with solemn worship and glad rejoicing.” During the Christmas season, our society’s focus is driven by consumerism and the enticement to accumulate gifts, decorations, food, etc.
While it is not wrong to enjoy and share these things with others, we must admit that none of these traditions or gifts will give us the joy experienced on the first Christmas. This joy can only come from truly encountering Jesus, and we will meet Him in the sacraments, scriptures and our service to others.
Finally, for the fourth week of Advent, which often is quite short, we pray for the gift of love. God is love, the scriptures tell us, and “we love because He first loved us” (1 Jn. 4:19). As we contemplate the mystery of the Incarnation, that is, God becoming one of us, to reunite us to Himself so we can be like Him, we ask for an outpouring of God’s grace and redeeming love. As disciples of Jesus, we are meant to live our lives united to the life of Christ and reject the world’s standard of individualism and indifference to others, especially the poor.
May Mary, Our Mother, teach us how to prepare to receive her Son with hope, peace, joy and love as we journey through the season of Advent. C
PHOTO BY KALISA VEER ON UNSPLASH
OC Catholic Afar
Greetings from Hiroshima, Japan!
Oscar and Patty Pablos carry a copy of Orange County Catholic as they visit the Assumption of Mary Cathedral.
Oscar and Patty attend St. Joachim Catholic Church in Costa Mesa.
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.
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