ANNUAL REPORT
Vocations, outreach and growth highlight 2023
▪ SEE CENTER
STEP AFTER STEP
Thousands hit their stride at Steps for Students annual run/walk
▪ SEE PAGES 6 - 7
FAITH AND DOUBT?
What does faith look like when a Catholic encounters doubt?
▪ SEE PAGE 15
“The Holy Spirit’s constant presence in this journey has undoubtedly enhanced my life... while reminding me of the transformative impact faith can have on our daily lives.”ADRIANA
GUTIERREZDirector of Communications St. Laurence School - Sugar Land
HOUSTON — The joyous words of four-year-old Anthony, beaming with excitement and smiling from ear to ear, echoed in Veronica Tucker’s heart: “Mrs. Tucker, one day I am going to be St. Anthony!”
Tucker, currently in her sixth year as the principal of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School (SAPCS) in The Woodlands, was engaged in a discussion about the lives of the saints in a PK-4 classroom. It’s during such moments that she is reminded of the profound truths that often emerge from the innocent “mouth of babes.”
administrator and parent of children attending Catholic schools, Tucker reflected on the gift of Catholic education and the privilege of serving these children and their families. She witnesses numerous blessings during her visits to classrooms on this PK-3 through eighth-grade campus.
“I witness the Holy Spirit when second-grade students share their excitement to receive the Eucharist, which deepens my appreciation for the gift of this Sacrament,”Tucker said.
Houston Catholic schools among the first to desegregate
Bishop Nold’s 1961 pastoral letter brought landmark change
BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic HeraldHOUSTON — Integrating schools and other public entities among the races only happened within this living generation, officials point out.
As part of Black History Month, a review of news archives in both the Galveston Daily News and the now-defunct Houston Post shows desegregation of all Catholic schools in Harris and Galveston counties was announced from the pulpits during regular Sunday Masses of all churches involved.
In April 1961, each priest read aloud
See DESEGREGATION, page 8
Texas
Catholic HeraldHOUSTON — To welcome and usher in the Lunar New Year of the Dragon, the Dominican Sisters of Mary Immaculate Province gathered all their sisters from their six other mission house convents in Texas for a Feb. 3 celebration at their provincial house convent in southwest Houston.
“I couldn’t help but smile and get a little teary-eyed,”Tucker said.“Anthony’s life goal at this tender age of four reminded me that we are all called to be saints.”
Balancing her roles as a school
“Watching middle school students in deep conversations with their teacher about heaven and hell, formation of conscience, and how to apply their faith to the challenges of being a teenager reminds me of the deep need for
See SCHOOLS, page 10
The special event drew members of the Vietnamese Catholic community together to witness traditional Vietnamese lion dancing, a beloved icon of the Têt Lunar New Year celebration that features shimmering larger-than-life lions that dance to a beat set by nearby drums and cymbals that echoed throughout the
See LUNAR NEW YEAR, page 4
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Vices, such as vanity and greed, are like“wild beasts” of the soul that risk tearing people apart, Pope Francis said.
Vices “must be tamed and fought. Otherwise, they will devour our freedom,” he said on Feb. 18 before reciting the Angelus prayer with about 15,000 visitors in St. Peter’s Square.
The period of Lent, he added, helps Christians create moments of silence, prayer and reflection in order to correct those vices and perceive the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
On the first Sunday of Lent, the pope focused his main Angelus address on the day’s Gospel reading about Jesus in the desert or “the wilderness.” He remained there for 40 days, “tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him,” according to the Gospel of St. Mark (1:12-13).
“We too, during Lent, are invited to ‘enter the wilderness,’ that is, silence, the inner world, listening to the heart, in contact with the truth,” the pope said.
By entering into one’s inner world, he said, “we can encounter wild beasts and angels there.”
The “beasts” of the soul, he said, are “the disordered passions that divide the heart, trying to take possession of it. They entice us; they seem seductive, but if we are not careful, we risk being torn apart by them.”
They include various vices, he said, such as coveting wealth, “the vanity of pleasure, which condemns us to restlessness and solitude, and the craving for fame, which gives rise to insecurity and a continuous need for confirmation and prominence.”
However, the pope said angels were also in the desert with Jesus.
“These are God’s messengers, who help us, who do us good: indeed, their characteristic, according to the Gospel, is service,” he said. “While
milk production in 1997. Pope Francis greeted the Italian agricultural and livestock farmers, who had come to the square seeking his blessing as they joined farmers across Europe demonstrating about rising costs, falling incomes and the impact of European Union regulations aimed at
temptations tear us apart, the good divine inspirations unify us and let us enter into harmony: they quench the heart, infuse the taste of Christ, ‘the flavor of Heaven.’”
“In order to grasp the inspiration of God, one must enter into silence and prayer. And Lent is the time to do this,” the pope said, encouraging Christians to dedicate the time and space needed for such reflection each day.
Pope Francis and leaders of the Roman Curia were to dedicate themselves to private prayer and reflection from the afternoon of Feb. 18 to the afternoon of Feb. 23.
After the Angelus, the pope greeted
Italian agricultural and livestock farmers, who had come to St. Peter’s Square seeking his blessing as they joined farmers across Europe demonstrating about rising costs, falling incomes and the impact of European Union regulations aimed at mitigating climate change.
The farmers had their mascot, a cow named Ercolina II, with them in the square. The first Ercolina had been the mascot of dairy farmers who protested limits imposed by the European Union on milk production and associated large fines for exceeding quotas in 1997. †
We pray that those who risk their lives for the Gospel in various parts of the world inflame the Church with their courage and missionary enthusiasm. †
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With the start of Lent, we’re excited to bring you again a series that features different easy-to-make meatless recipes from around the world during the Lenten season.
This week, the Catholic Relief Service’s (CRS) Rice Bowl program highlights a popular dish from Uganda, a country known as the Pearl of Africa that is home to 45 million people. Matoke With Beans is a popular dish in East African cuisine, particularly in Uganda. It combines two staple ingredients: matoke—a type of banana—and beans, typically kidney beans or black-eyed peas. The dish is hearty, nutritious, and often enjoyed as a main course.
As we abstain from eating meat on Fridays during Lent, journey with us around the world and incorporate these Lenten recipes into your meatless Fridays. Give the money you saved each week by not eating meat — about $3 per person per meal — to your CRS Rice Bowl to feed those in need around the world.
For more information and other free recipes, including videos, visit www.crsricebowl.org/recipe. †
45 MINUTES
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 4 green plantains or bananas, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained
• 1/2 cup vegetable stock
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped, for garnish
In a pot over medium heat, heat the oil and sauté the onion until it is translucent and soft, about 2 minutes. Add garlic, ginger and cumin. Stir for a minute or two until spices are fragrant. Add the bananas, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable stock and chili flakes. Salt to taste. Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the bananas are tender. Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.
Adolf and his wife, Florence, are farmers in Akwangagwel, Uganda. The couple is dedicated to fighting hunger so that their family and others in their community can build thriving lives. They do this by farming, which helps their family to eat three nutritious meals a day, and by assisting others in their community to grow successful crops.
Each member of their household has an important role, like gardening, cleaning, preparing meals and caring for the animals. In the evenings, they enjoy spending time together as a family. Adolf is thankful for the free time to sit and relax with his children.
In the area where they live, the climate is very dry. Lately, the rainy season has been coming later than it used to. And sometimes, it rains too much all at once and causes flooding.
“It rains so heavily and destroys things,” Adolf says. “So, the goodness of rain is taken away.”
In addition, people come through their community and steal their food or tools. It makes it difficult to farm with these challenges—and that means food is harder to come by.
To overcome these obstacles, Adolf and Florence joined a Catholic Relief Services program where they learned new farming methods that help them grow crops even when it is hot and dry. They planted seeds that grow quickly, so that they can still have vegetables to harvest, even if there isn’t much rain. This provides enough food to eat and to sell at the market for extra income.
“I have seen my children are happy because they are well fed,” Adolf says.
Because of the successful life that he and Florence have built, they are sharing the knowledge they learned with their neighbors. As a leader in his community, Adolf works with others to increase their harvests, improve the land and build a safe and thriving community. †
Save
HOUSTON — The 20th Annual Bishop Rizzotto Memorial Golf Tournament, which supports the retired priests, religious and elders of St. Dominic Village, is set for Wednesday, March 20. Registration is at 11 a.m. The tournament is at the Wildcat Golf Club, 12000 Almeda Rd., in Houston. All proceeds directly benefit the residents of St. Dominic Village. Price per player is $300.
To register to play or sponsor-a-priest, visit www. stdominicvillage.org. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Kimberly Elliott at 713-741-8722 or email kelliott@stdominicvillage.org. †
Catholic Charities’ food distributions continue at three locations
HOUSTON — Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston continues offering food assistance at three locations.
In Houston, food distributions at the Guadalupe Center (326 S. Jensen St.) are Tuesdays from 9 to 11 a.m. (drive-thru) and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (food distribution bags). New clients should bring a photo ID and bill with a confirming address. The next Saturday community food fair is set for 9 a.m. on March 9. No appointment is necessary. Call 713-874-6781 for more information.
The Beacon of Hope Isle Market in Galveston (4700 Broadway, Suite F-103) is open Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To make an appointment, which is required, call 409-762-2064.
In Fort Bend County, the Mamie George Community Center (1111 Collins Rd., Richmond) hosts drive-thru food distributions and in-person shopping. Drive-thru distributions with the Houston Food Bank are on Tuesdays, from 5 to 7 p.m., and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Clients should visit the pantry by appointment only on Mondays, 12 to 2 p.m.; Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For help, call 281-202-6200.
For more information, visit www.catholiccharities.org/ food or call 713-526-4611. †
DSF annual appeal to support Archdiocesan ministries continues
HOUSTON — This year, the theme of the annual Diocesan Services Fund (DSF) appeal is “We are the Lord’s.”
The annual campaign to support 64 Archdiocese-wide ministries is underway, and the local Church is asking parishioners to continue their generous giving to DSF. The fund supports a variety of ministries, such as those forming youth in the Catholic faith; providing support and preparation for clergy; teaching, evangelizing, worshiping and outreach to the incarcerated, aging, poor and sick; and programming to strengthen Christian families, among many others.
To pledge online or see a full list of the ministries supported, visit www.archgh.org/dsf. †
Embracing Faith: Lenten guidelines
Lent continues through Good Friday, March 29, which is a day of fast and abstinence. Abstinence from meat is obligatory for all who have reached their 14th year. Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence.
According to the U.S. bishops, fasting is obligatory for all who have completed their 18th year and have not yet reached their 60th year. Fasting allows a person to eat one full meal. Two smaller meals may be taken, not to equal one full meal. Through works of fasting, prayer and abstinence, we heed the Prophet Joel’s exhortation to “return to God with our whole heart” (2:12).
Lent is a penitential season and practices such as daily Mass, reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, works of charity and justice and acts of self-denial are highly encouraged.
For more resources, including prayer guides, videos and links to stories, visit www.archgh.org/lent.
convent grounds.
Every year, the sisters open their convent to priests and religious brothers and sisters who live and minister in the Archdiocese, with a special invitation to retired priests who live at the Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza Priest Retirement Residence. The event also included a firecracker display, games and a food court featuring a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Held a week before the actual Feb. 10 Lunar New Year date, the celebration kicked off a series of Lunar New Year events held at parishes with large Asian Catholic communities around the Archdiocese.
Our Lady of Lourdes, Christ the Incarnate Word and other parishes also hosted lion dances and festive events to ring in the Lunar New Year. At Christ the Incarnate World, Father Thu Ngoc Nguyen, pastor, and Father Joseph Tien Phuong Bui, parochial vicar, greeted parishioners and visitors in the parish hall with the traditional “lì xì,” the red envelope seen in many Lunar New Year celebrations.
Outside the parish hall, a dramatic lion and dragon dance was accentuated by a massive firecracker display, with the dragon dancers fearlessly charging
through the flashing firecrackers. In Asian tradition, firecrackers spark loud noises thought to ward away bad spirits.
Catholics, including the Dominican Sisters of Mary Immaculate Province, also attended a series of daily Masses at parishes to embrace their faith in the Lunar New Year.
The Mass intentions were celebrated to honor peace, ancestors and parents, and the sanctification of life and work, especially in the Lunar New Year.
While the vibrant, bright colors of the red lanterns, shimmering Lunar New Year banners and blossoming yellow chrysanthemums had to disappear a few days later for Ash Wednesday on Feb. 14, flowers continued to surround statues of the Blessed Mother and St. Joseph at Christ the Incarnate Word.
The Congregation of the Holy Spirit, also known as the Spiritans, held their annual Venerable Father Matteo Ricci, SJ, Chinese Education Award Dinner on Feb. 8 at Ocean Palace in Houston.
Founded by Father Donald Nesti, CSSp, the China Education Fund aims to bring Chinese priests and sisters to Houston for graduate study so they can return home to better evangelize Catholics in China.
The dinner, which benefits the Spiritan China Education Fund for Advanced Formation, featured a keynote presentation by Archbishop Savio Hon Tai-fai, SDB, who is the apostolic nuncio to Libya and Malta.
The dinner is named after the 16thcentury Jesuit priest, named “Venerable” in 2022 by Pope Francis, who evangelized China, founding the seeds of faith that would grow the Chinese Catholic Church to its 12 million members today.
Archbishop Tai-Fai, a native of Hong
Kong, spoke about the realities of the Catholic Church in China, describing the delicate relationship between the pope at the Vatican and Chinese Communist government leaders. He said the tenuous but faithful Catholic Church in China, though under watch of the Chinese State, remains ultimately under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit and prayer.
At the event, the St. Francis de Sales Knights of Columbus Council #10995 also received the Our Lady of China Charity and Service Award, and the Scanlan Foundation and Archbishop Tai-Fai were honored as well.
Past recipients of the Our Lady of China Award have been Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and the late Auxiliary Bishop George A. Sheltz, who received the award posthumously.
Part of the evening included entertainment and a video of Lunar New Year celebrations held at the Vatican, with Pope Francis greeting dragon and lion dancers at St. Peter’s.
Entertainment also included a pair of lions that also coursed throughout the reception hall in Houston, with Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, who gave the event’s benediction, and Bishop Brendan J. Cahill of the Diocese of Victoria, who led the invocation, greeting the lions with red envelopes. Attendees also heard the Ave Maria sung in Mandarin by Jennifer Wang, accompanied by Agnes Chang on piano.
Many attendees also were parishioners at Ascension Chinese Mission, which welcomed Archbishop Tai-Fai, who celebrated Masses at the church throughout the Lunar New Year weekend, concluding with a special Chinese potluck lunch in the parish hall. †
HOUSTON — Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, presiding over the ribboncutting and blessing Feb. 16 of the newly renovated St. Peter Catholic High School, pointed to the front row with the Class of 2027.
“We salute the pioneer class of St. Peter,” Cardinal DiNardo declared as the crowd of more than 200 supporters and families sitting in the decorated gymnasium behind the students burst out in applause.
“Catholic educators sacrifice to teach our new generation with honesty and integrity while preparing them to meet the challenges to come,” he said at the 10acre campus located at 6220 La Salette St. and Old Spanish Trail.
The 10-member freshmen class of the career and technology high school also knows about sacrifice. Ashly Morales, the sole girl in the school so far, may soon be joined by a friend graduating eighth grade from Resurrection Catholic School.
“It was lonely at first, but all the boys here had respect and were very kind,” said Morales, who is focusing on the education track to become a teacher.
Attending the ceremony, her friend, 14-year-old Mariel Hernandez, said she has applied to St. Peter for the fall semester and is excited as she waits to be accepted into the unique program. She plans to focus on architecture as a career.
“There are lots of opportunities here,” she said as her father, Jorge Hernandez, who works in construction, proudly nodded in agreement.
Mark Letsos Jr., chair of the board of trustees for the school, said in opening remarks, “We thank God for guiding us with this mission. This blessing and dedication mark a giant milestone, but this is just the beginning in creating models of faith and comprehensive education.”
Students can choose to go on to associate degree programs or four-year colleges, or they can go directly into the workforce with certifications to do jobs that are needed by industry, said Letsos, an operations manager at Johnston, LLC, business, engineering and architectural consultants.
Now, the students have recently moved from a satellite campus to the two-story brick building transformed into a state-ofthe-art high school, focusing on computer information technology and web
development; business, marketing, and finance; architecture and construction; education and training; and other major careers, including certification in labor skills.
Arturo Alonso, the first student to apply and be accepted at St. Peter, also spoke to the crowd, “We may be small in numbers, but mighty as pioneers. We plan to do great things. I’m grateful and thankful.”
Janann Pitmann, American Institute of Architects and principal with Jackson & Ryan Architects which designed the school renovations, said part of the multimillion-dollar upgraded technology included prepping for multiple computer monitors, new fire alarms, cameras, large energy-efficient windows, and a tower elevator to make the second floor accessible.
“We removed walls to create large spaces for updated biology, chemistry and physics labs. They can do science experiments that they haven’t even dreamed of yet,” Pitmann said.
Archdiocesan Catholic Schools Superintendent Dr. Debra Haney said, “This is a dream come true from the first time we started planning in 2018 to now having students coming to class every day.”
She said that the goal as educators is to reduce barriers for students, acknowledging that not every child is college-bound.
“We want to offer an education that is different and unique to each of them, what can allow them to do what’s best with their talents and lives,” Haney said.
School Principal Dr. Marc Martinez thanked the Archdiocese, St. Peter
parish and donors, including the Scanlan Foundation, Shea Homes and a list of supporters posted on a legacy wall at the entrance of the school.
“We are all many parts of one body, and we all belong together,” Martinez said. The following day on Feb. 17, St. Peter hosted an open house where more than 75 families showed up for tours, Martinez said. The school received 30 more applications for new students that day. Enrollment remains open through March 1 and can possibly be extended. Those accepted will receive award letters by March 8, he said.
The school is designed to accommodate up to 200 students during this Phase 1. As enrollment grows, Phase 2 would add a transportation, distribution and logistics career path. Phase 3 would add health sciences and pharmacy technology.
Possible partnerships with interested businesses can offer internships to students. The school will be open to all students and families seeking an alternative to public high school, highcost private school, or charter school with an annual $15,000 tuition and financial assistance available.
For additional information, including how to apply to the school, visit www. stpeterhs.org. †
HOUSTON — Despite a damp start to the morning, thousands of runners and walkers gathered in downtown Houston on Saturday, Feb. 10, for the 19th Annual Steps for Students 5K Walk/Run to raise awareness and funds for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese.
This year, the event has raised more than $770,000 dollars for Catholic schools and drew over 8,700 registered runners.
Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, who later ran in the race, first celebrated the 7 a.m. sunrise Mass at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Telling the churchgoers, many dressed in their running gear, “Thank you all for being here this morning. But our true finish line we’re aiming for is Heaven!”
Early stormy weather didn’t slow down runners. Katy teen Elijah Emerson was the Howie Ryan Top Male finisher with a time of 16:32, while Casey Timme of Kingwood repeated as the Howie Ryan Top female finisher with 20:06 time. The fastest priest, Father Richard “Luke” Millette, kept his streak going in his age category with a winning time of 19:08.
St. Martha Catholic School in Kingwood won the David Guite Spirit Award. Father T.J. Dolce accepted the plaque with his trademark wide smile and enthusiastic gratitude. St. Peter Catholic High School, a new career and technical school, won the High School President’s Cup for the greatest percent of participation based on enrollment. St. Peter Principal Dr. Marc Martinez, who recently moved into the renovated state-of-the-art facilities off Old Spanish Trail, accepted the large silver trophy to display for the year at the school.
Román Martínez, chair of the Steps Committee, rallied the participants from the start line stage, telling the crowd as they lined up,“This race would not happen without all of our volunteers. We also thank all the students who raised the money and our generous sponsors.”
Martínez highlighted perennial sponsor Reytec Construction Resources, with several offices across the state, saying, “The CEO Gregg Reyes attended Resurrection Catholic School and remains dedicated to Catholic education.”
Harvey Construction was the bib sponsor. Reliant, Marek Family Foundation, Raye G. White and Strake Jesuit College Preparatory returned as sponsors as well. The fundraiser benefits all 55 schools in the Archdiocese. Funds will continue to be accepted through Feb. 29 at www. steps4students.org. †
a pastoral letter from Bishop Wendelin Joseph Nold, bishop at the time of the Diocese of Galveston-Houston, announcing that local parochial schools in all grades would be desegregated starting that pending September.
“…All qualified Catholic children, regardless of color, will be eligible for admission into the parochial schools existing in the territory embraced by Harris and Galveston counties,” Bishop Nold’s letter stated.
The letter also pointed out that desegregation had started in the Houston public schools in September 1960 but was only doing so on a grade-a-year basis rather than all grades at once as the parochial schools would do. Galveston public schools were ordered to begin desegregation at the same time in September 1961.
The local Catholic school enrollment then was 28,772 students enrolled in 74
day vicar for Catholics of African Descent who serves the African, African American, and Caribbean Catholic communities of the Archdiocese, said, “My older brothers and sisters lived in the era of desegregation, and they all described how challenging the process was for them.”
He added, “Looking back on this era, I can see how exacting the process was; however, the Catholic bishops had the foresight to know that change was inevitable, and progress would be uncomfortable.”
Now the “Negro mission Churches” have evolved to include all the various communities of African Descent in the Archdiocese, including Catholics from the African Continent, Caribbean and South America,” said Father Samuels, who is also pastor at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church in Deer Park.
Archdiocesan Catholic Schools Superintendent Debra Haney said, “We firmly believe that multiculturalism adds to the beauty and richness of our schools in immeasurable ways.”
serving 38,734 Negro members.” At the time, the Galveston-Houston Diocese had “one of the largest Negro memberships of any Catholic diocese in the United States,” exceeded only in New Orleans, New York, Chicago, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., according to the almanac.
Among the local missions, there were “eight Negro schools…with a total enrollment of 2,772,” the almanac reported.
Father Reginald Samuels, the present-
The current racial breakdown of the area’s Catholic student body of about 18,000 is 37% Hispanic, 32% white, 13% of students who are two or more races, 9% Asian, 6% Black/African American, and remaining unidentified, Haney recounted.
“We have seen the diversity of our schools increase over the last several years. Our goal is for the students and the faculty within a school to represent the community which the school serves,” Haney said.
Father Samuels concluded, “Catholic school population for African and African Americans continues to be small and challenging. However, the numbers increase year by year.” †
Supporting Catholic schools:
HOUSTON — “A Pattern of Hope,” an event that supports tuition assistance for primary Catholic schools to help students excel in their academic journey, will be held Friday, March 1, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The luncheon will be at the Junior League of Houston, located at 1811 Briar Oaks Ln.
Lisa Cotter is a leading Catholic speaker and author known for her practical insights on relationships, femininity and living life with excellence. After serving as a FOCUS missionary family for over 10 years, she authored “Dating Detox: 40 Days of Perfecting Love in an Imperfect World” and “Reveal the Gift: Living the Feminine Genius.”
Her work has been featured on Ascension Presents, the Hallow App, EWTN, Formed.org, Steubenville Youth Conferences, the SEEK Conference and numerous other outlets.
Cotter spoke with the Texas Catholic Herald:
Q: Could you give us a brief synopsis of your talk for Pattern of Hope?
A: Firstly, as a graduate of Catholic schools, I am so excited to be joining everyone for the luncheon. I know it is
going to be a blessed event. With the Eucharistic Revival going on, my hope for our time together is to remind everyone of our need for the Eucharist and then tie it back to Catholic schools. It’s going to be a great message for the start of this Lenten season!
Q: Do your children attend Catholic school? What do you feel is the value of a Catholic education?
A: Yes! We have kids in both Catholic grade school and high school, and we absolutely love our schools. Knowing that they are learning in a place where they are not only receiving a first-class education but also receiving the faith is a gift. Having opportunities to encounter our Lord daily through the Sacraments, times of prayer and classes that bring Jesus into any subject is forming them into men and women who know the love of their Father in heaven. I really can’t imagine a better place for them to grow in virtue and discover God’s call in their lives.
Q: What do you hope attendees walk away with after your keynote?
A: After my talk, I hope attendees will feel a sense of hope and a renewal in their relationship with the Lord. During this season of Lent, we have a unique
opportunity to slow down, connect with Jesus, and reflect on what He did for us on the cross. My message is simple but powerful, just like the Gospel, and I hope that it will be a great moment of encouragement as we hit the mid-way point of Lent.
Q: How can femininity enhance one’s faith?
A: Great question. I think the secret to femininity enhancing one’s faith is found in what St. John Paul II called the “feminine genius,” which is women’s unique person-oriented disposition. Part of this includes her receptive nature, which is visible in the make-up of her body. As St. John Paul II points out in his Theology of the Body, this visible reality points to an invisible reality. Women are not only receptive physically, but spiritually as well. This helps them to be able to receive from the Lord the graces he desires to pour out to them if they know how to lean into this gift!
Q: In the secular environment we are currently living in, what should women who want to feel empowered focus on when it comes to being a faithful Catholic?
A: Receptivity is only one of the gifts that flow from a woman’s feminine
genius. Others that St. John Paul II spoke of include maternity, sensitivity, interior strength, generosity and more. I know at face value that not every woman may initially connect with some of the words on that list, but that’s because St. John Paul II’s definitions of these words are not always the same as the world’s. For example, when St. John Paul II speaks of a woman’s unique sensitivity, he is not saying that all women are overly emotional and cry too often. For him, sensitivity lies in a woman’s unique ability to be sensitive to the needs of those around her. He speaks of how women see people with their hearts. They tend to notice when someone is feeling uncomfortable or left out or needs to be celebrated and their sensitivity moves them to act in ways that meet those needs. I have found that when women dive into the true meanings of these gifts, they find unique ways that they can live from them, and that is empowering.
Cotter holds a master’s degree in theology and resides in Denver, Colorado, with her husband Kevin and their four children. †
connection to Jesus at every phase of life.”
Tucker believes that practicing the faith with the children throughout the day — from the opening prayer, celebrating Mass and Sacraments, to praying the Angelus at noon, and before meals and tests, until the final bell rings — becomes a constant reminder of Jesus’s love. This, in turn, deepens the faith of both students and staff throughout the day.
This commitment to faith and spiritual growth aligns seamlessly with the broader mission of the Catholic Schools Office (CSO) that supports the day-today operations of SAPCS and 54 other Catholic schools in the Archdiocese. The ministry provides professional development and support, as well as opportunities for the staff to practice and deepen its faith during the year, fostering a profound connection to Jesus that permeates every aspect of life beyond textbooks and course curriculum.
Connie Masera, instructional support services coordinator for St. Laurence Catholic School in Sugar Land, is currently in her second year in this role. She said the CSO has been a remarkable source of support for the school staff, providing spiritual, professional and emotional assistance from day one.
“The many amazing Christ-centered people at the CSO who I have met and developed friendships with and worked with side-by-side have deepened my connection to Jesus,” Masera said. “The ministry offers many opportunities to grow in your faith and actively show your love of Jesus through prayerful reflection, sharing with others, learning about saints’ lives, learning different ways of prayer, and being part of compassionate and caring acts toward others. The ministry of CSO continues to strengthen my personal faith life.”
As part of the CSO-supported Curriculum Leadership PLC and the instructional specialist team, Masera has received opportunities for professional development and growth. She has collaborated on diverse projects, including curriculum development and writing, contributing to publications, and facilitating professional development workshops. Through catechist certification, she personally gained profound knowledge, deeper appreciation, and love for the Catholic faith and its daily gifts.
“During my first year, I was constantly e-mailing or calling the CSO for guidance, reassurance or help in finding resources,” Masera said. “The CSO staff graciously
gives of themselves every day in a nonjudgmental, accepting and patient way. They have truly made a difference in my spiritual and professional life.”
Adriana Gutierrez, director of communications at St. Laurence Catholic School, has devoted 18 years to Catholic education within the Archdiocese. During her service in Catholic education, she has participated and collaborated in many of the CSO programs and events. One particular time when she felt the profound work of the Holy Spirit was through her involvement with the ministry when she was called to serve in a Catholic school.
“In that moment, I sensed a divine guidance that reassured me of the significance of my mission and enriched my life in ways I hadn’t anticipated,” Gutierrez said. “The Holy Spirit’s constant presence in this journey has undoubtedly enhanced my life and provided a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment while reminding me of the transformative impact faith can have on our daily lives.”
Gutierrez said daily interactions with students, colleagues and the wider community have allowed her to witness the teachings of Jesus unfolding in tangible ways.
“This continuous experience reminds me of the profound significance of love, compassion and service, nurturing a deeper and more meaningful relationship with my faith,” Gutierrez said.
The CSO is among the 64 ministries funded by the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF). All of the Catholic schools in the Archdiocese benefit from the annual appeal. Every dollar collected from the DSF is valued and strategically utilized based on the needs and best interests of each ministry.
“All money given to the ministry of Catholic education supports the formation of the future of our Church,”
The 2024 Diocesan Services Fund theme is “We are the Lord’s.”
DSF operates in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston each year to help the Church carry out the ministries of teaching and sanctifying. DSF brings the needed financial resources to carry out 64 ministries.
Tucker said. “When visiting classrooms, these are our future teachers, doctors, military personnel, mothers, fathers, first responders, priests, sisters — and saints! There is truly no greater investment.”
For Masera, Catholic education and giving to the DSF have been a priority for her family for over 30 years. She believes supporting the fund is more than a financial commitment — it’s a fulfillment of Christ’s call to contribute time, treasures and talents for the wellbeing of others.
“The ministries supported by the DSF provide for Catholic education to the young and old, help guide new priests and care for the retired priests, take care of the poor and sick, and provide many services to the people in need,” Masera said. “Christ calls everyone to give of their time, treasures and talents for the good of others.”
Gutierrez also contributes to the DSF and encourages the faithful to contribute to the 2024 appeal.
“Giving to DSF is not just a financial contribution; it’s an investment in the holistic development of individuals and the broader community,” said Gutierrez said. “It ensures that the transformative work of the Catholic Church continues, impacting many lives positively for years to come. Giving becomes a shared commitment to fostering an environment where the whole Christian person is nurtured in body, mind and spirit while supporting each student in a well-rounded, faithbased environment.”
To learn more about the CSO, visit www.choosecatholicschools.org. To donate to the DSF, go to www.archgh. org/DSF. The DSF supports each of these ministries, whether direct service or education, which require this critical funding to remain in operation. Out of each gift given to DSF, 100% of every dollar goes directly to supporting these ministries. †
E-mail event details to tch@archgh.org for possible inclusion in the Around the Archdiocese calendar or scan the QR code and fill out the form online at www.archgh.org/ata. While there is no charge for listings, space is limited.
Dear brothers and sisters,
Last summer the “Year of the Parish Eucharistic Revival” began with celebrations around the country and in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. As I commented at that time, this revival serves as a special time of careful thinking and renewal in our love of the Holy Eucharist.
This year the nationwide movement is leading up to the first National Eucharistic Congress in the United States in almost 50 years. An estimated 80,000 Catholics will gather in Indianapolis in July for a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage toward the “source and summit” of our Catholic faith.
Ahead of the Congress, four national pilgrimages will trace paths of faith to Indianapolis. The southern route, dubbed the “Juan Diego Route” begins in Brownsville, at the U.S.-Mexico border. It will trek to Houston on May 31 to June 2, and through the southern region of the U.S. before reaching Indianapolis. I am inviting the faithful to take part in the pilgrimage and Congress in prayer and in person. I ask that you continue to be attentive to related activities at your parish as these events approach. To learn more, please visit www.archgh.org/revival.
On a diocesan level, numerous ministries continue to serve the people of Galveston-Houston. Every week, Holy Cross Chapel provides sacramental and pastoral care to the downtown Houston working community. The chapel offers two lunch-time Masses each weekday, along with the Sacrament of Reconciliation and spiritual direction.
Under the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, the Ministry with Persons with Disabilities assists parishes in opening their doors to invite, welcome and accept persons with disabilities into the full life of the Church. This ministry also informs how to provide religious formation and sacramental preparation in ways that best serve persons with different learning abilities.
These are just a couple of examples of the service and formation taking place in our local Church. On behalf of the many ministries in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston which depend on your support, thank you for your kind contributions and generosity of spirit. As your shepherd, I am constantly encouraged by your great generosity, your trust, and your fervor for the faith. Therefore, in the spirit of transparency, I am pleased to share with you the Archdiocesan financial statements for the fiscal year which ended June 30, 2023. If you are interested, the audited financials of the chancery office of the Archdiocese can be found in their entirety at www.archgh. org/accounting.
Once again, thank you for your continued prayers and support of this local Church, and be assured of my prayers for you and your family.
With every good wish in the Lord, I remain
Sincerely yours in Christ,
JAMES
The Church in sacraments 2023
6,174 infant baptisms
7,512 child baptisms*
*ages 1-7
12,163 children had their first reconciliation
1,346 adult baptisms
2,432 couples were married
45 permanent deacons ordained
3 priests ordained and
3 transitional deacons ordained
Daniel Cardinal DiNardo Archbishop of Galveston-Houston JAMES RAMOS/HERALDHOUSTON — In the Archdiocese, ministries continued to welcome back the faithful to the churches and ministries around the 10-county Archdiocese.
With a continued focus on vocations, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo ordained 45 new permanent deacons and three priests this year. St. Mary’s Seminary currently hosts 44 seminarians. These priests and deacons continue to strive to minister to the infirm, aged, imprisoned and dying.
Also this year, the Catholic Schools Office focused on opening the first low-cost, Catholic-centered, co-ed high school in Texas (and second in the nation) focused on technical education for students looking to develop jobready skills that will allow them to enter the workforce directly out of high school with an in-demand skillset.
At two separate Masses, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo ordained 45 new permanent deacons — 23 on Feb. 17, 2023, and another 22 on Feb. 18, 2023 — at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart after they “were found worthy” by their pastors and parishes.
Cardinal DiNardo thanked the men of diverse backgrounds, including a convert from Islam to Christianity, a NASA engineer, a Vietnamese refugee, and a mission worker in Latin America, for their continuing service and thanked their wives and families.
On Feb. 18, 2023, Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, joined Cardinal DiNardo to concelebrate the Mass alongside Bishop José Elías Rauda Gutiérrez, O.F.M., of El Salvador, who also concelebrated the Mass on Saturday because he personally knew
In January, the pastoral visitors at Memorial Hermann, the Texas Medical Center location, gathered for the first time since the COVID-19 and shared their pastoral visitor journeys with one another.
one of the deacons ordained that day.
After more than six years of discernment, study and pastoral counseling at St. Mary’s Seminary, these men and their wives now share their lives with the ministry of the Word, Liturgy and Charity — the three pillars of a deacon’s vocation — at their parishes and Archdiocesan ministries.
In his homily, Cardinal DiNardo told the deacons, “You are to be a living, breathing image of the Gospel — all four of them.”
He reminded all the new deacons and the filled Co-Cathedral of more than 1,500 each day that they are “as Jesus who came not to be served but to serve. Jesus is ransomed for His crooked people, and we are all crooked.”
Cardinal DiNardo added, “May Jesus
the Servant help you all.”
At one point, Cardinal DiNardo asked the deacons to applaud their wives and families who walked with them along their journey to the diaconate, a moment which drew tender glances of affection and appreciation.
At the end of each Mass, following the group photo, Cardinal DiNardo shared a quiet moment with the deacons before they were sent off to find their wives, families and loved ones. In an intimate, striking moment, Cardinal DiNardo encouraged them personally, sharing his appreciation for their vocation to the permanent diaconate.
Then, on June 3, 2023, Father Zachary Muldrow, Father Matthew Krusleski and Father J Serrato were ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Dinardo at
the Co-Cathedral.
More than 1,200 turned out to witness the occasion, including Bishop Dell’Oro, 75 priests, 22 deacons and many beloved family, friends and former teachers.
During his homily, Cardinal DiNardo congratulated the three new priests.
“God’s blessings upon you, who has brought you to this day,” he said.
Cardinal DiNardo stressed that when it comes to the priesthood, preaching is “pretty significant.”
“This will be a major work that you will have,” he said. “The first part of the Liturgy is for you to be attentive to the Word of God as it’s already filtered through the lives of your people to distill it as it is heard in the readings, and then to preach and teach.”
As Houston continues to grow, the Catholic Chaplains Corps (CCC) is increasing its efforts to bring Christ’s love and compassion to over 120,000 patients, families and staff located at the Texas Medical Center, The Woodlands and Conroe each year.
“Serving our Catholic sisters and brothers with love and passion who experience varying emotional and spiritual needs is central to CCC’s vision, which is to bring Christ’s aroma to the infirm, aged, imprisoned and dying,” said Romani Perera, director of the CCC. “Our mission is to provide an effective sacramental and pastoral care ministry to all regions within the Archdiocese uniformly and efficiently. We have significantly increased the pastoral care and sacramental ministry provided to Catholic religious and laity.”
Perera said the CCC continues to carry out the mission that began in 1960 when Bishop John Markovsky established
The Church in formation 2023
420 priests supported by the Clergy Formation Office
36,733 PreK through 8th grade students in religious education
426 deacons supported by the Permanent Diaconate Office
14,415 high school students in religious education
375 sisters and religious women serve in the Archdiocese
12,512 students in Catholic lower schools
46 Archdiocesen seminarians in formation
5,476 students in Catholic high schools
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC CHAPLAINS CORPS JAMES RAMOS/HERALD Cardinal DiNardo ordained 45 permanent deacons at the CoCathedral of the Sacred Heart in February 2023.the ministry. It was expanded in 1967 to include a designated group of Catholic priests whose sole responsibility was to minister to hospital patients and families. In 2017, under Denice Foose’s leadership, to secure the program’s future viability and assist these priests, CCC launched “Pastoral Care Outreach” to recruit lay persons to minister in the role of pastoral visitors.
Perera said over the upcoming year, in collaboration with parishes and Archdiocesan ministries, the CCC will continue to offer education, training and support to clergy and laity to bring Christ’s compassion and love through kindness, joy, prayer and listening presence.
According to Father Jojo Cal-Ortiz, the chaplain priest at Baylor St. Luke/ Texas Children’s Hospital, this training has been crucial to CCC accomplishing its mission, which is dependent on the DSF.
The very first teacher hired for the new St. Peter Catholic High School, a career and technical school, said he was excited to be part of a new innovative academic effort combining college preparation and workforce careerready skills.
“I believe in this mission to provide both character formation and an excellent academic education,” said Steve Liparulo, Ph.D. in English literature and creative writing. “Our students will not just be a number. They will have a real part to play. They will have a voice in the decision-making.”
St. Peter is located on a 10-acre campus off Old SpanishTrail near the 610 Freeway and the Texas Medical Center. The two-story brick building received a multi-million-dollar renovation to offer an education that prepares students for careers in information technology and web development; business, marketing, and finance; education and training; and architecture and construction.
address (PA) systems that replaced antiquated systems thanks to a recent grant in 2023.
Each school’s new system was customized to meet the needs of each student community. The work was done at three campuses at a time, with most of the intensive infrastructure work completed during the summer while students were out of the classroom.
Soon after, all new devices and connections were finalized after the equipment was delivered, with the provider completing all of the programming, including the testing of horns, speakers and call buttons during times that were not disruptive to the regular school day.
According to Archdiocesan officials, school staffs were trained on using the new public address systems, and they now have the ability to make schoolwide announcements. The schools also have their bell schedules programmed, and each classroom has the ability to have direct two-way communication with the main office in the event of an emergency.
In the fall of 2023, St. Laurence Catholic School in Sugar Land achieved an exceptional milestone, earning the prestigious 2023 National Blue Ribbon Award for the third time in the school’s history, the U.S. Department of Education announced.
St. Laurence is one of the largest pre-kindergarten to eighth-grade schools in the Archdiocese and has been recognized as a STREAM Synergy School, which celebrates the school’s efforts to incorporate science, technology, religion, engineering, the arts and mathematics in its programming. The diverse school is also accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops’ Educational Department and was voted a “Best of the Best” finalist by the Houston Chronicle
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said, “The honorees for our 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools Award have set a national example for what it means to raise the bar in
education. We take tremendous pride in the achievements of these schools and their commitment to empowering educators, serving students and engaging families.”
Dr. Debra Haney, secretariat director and superintendent of Catholic Schools, said, “Catholic schools have a long history of academic excellence, and St. Laurence continues that legacy with this third National Blue Ribbon Award.”
In a system-wide effort to improve campus communities and safety at the CROSS Academies in the Archdiocese, the eight schools received new public
Among the eight schools that received the new system, staff at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic School in Houston said announcements and school-wide communications can now be heard in nearly all the buildings on campus, including the gymnasium, which was not previously available, hallways and classrooms.
Staff said they now see students stopping to bow in prayer in the hallways when they hear school-wide prayers during the school’s afternoon announcements over the PA system, a new habit as announcements were only heard in classrooms before, but not in the hallways.
Other grants also helped communities, such as St. Pius V Church and St. Christopher School, and some four other parishes to receive renovations to improve or repair fire alarms, foundations, air conditioning and HVAC units, and lighting, landscaping, plumbing and communications systems.
1,461 attended the Archdiocesan Youth Conference
2,057 youth attended retreats at Camp Kappe
7,000 young adults are served by Young Adult and Campus Ministry
830 youth attended the School of Environmental Education
1,500 young adults attended Café Catholica
1,000 young adults attended Vigilia Pastoral
543 receive the Office of Aging newsletter
305 attended the Aging Catholic Conference (English and Spanish)
PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. LAURENCE CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN SUGAR LAND St. Laurence Catholic School Principal Suzanne Barto in Sugar Land celebrates with students on recently winning the National Blue Ribbon School award for the third time from the U.S. Department of Education. PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD The 2023 Archdiocesan Youth Conference featured a Eucharistic procession and adoration with over 1,400 youth in attendance.For the Years Ended June 30, 2023 and 2022
The Chancery Office of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston financial statements include the following entities: Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Texas Catholic Herald St. Mary Seminary
HOUSTON — The Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston (SVdP) will close both of its thrift store locations on Saturday, March 23.
While a variety of reasons, including less than ideal locations, rising costs, increased competition, reduced volunteer numbers paired with a challenging labor market, led to the decision to close the pair of stores, according to a Feb. 13 statement from SVdP. Officials also said they plan on opening new stores in the future.
The Bellaire thrift store location is on Cedar Street, and the Houston outlet location is in the Gulfgate area.
“We have decided to focus our efforts on strengthening our network of conferences that provide direct aid to the greater Houston community and the growth and expansion of our Underserved Communities Initiative and ‘Getting Ahead’ Program,” the statement continued.
“These initiatives enable us to teach people how to fish so they can feed their families for a lifetime and reach the children and workingpoor families that have been historically disregarded during times of crisis,” Val
Senegal, chief program officer, said.
Senegal continued, “SVdP wants to thank the entire greater Houston community for its outpouring of support and assistance. We will continue our mission to provide services to those most vulnerable during a crisis and anticipate opening brand-new stores in the future.” Senegal said that as they “momentarily” transition from the thrift store business, SVdP hopes donors and friends will continue supporting the organization.
Inspired by Gospel values since 1871, the organization’s members aim to grow spiritually by providing person-to-person service to all in need throughout Galveston-Houston. SVdP’s actions promote the person’s dignity and alleviate their neighbors’ suffering and distress while addressing the conditions that cause them through systemic change.
In 2022, SVdP provided more than $13 million in direct aid to more than 49,000 distressed individuals. This impact was achieved because of its dedicated members, referred to as Vincentians and committed volunteers spread across the 10-county Archdiocese.
To learn more, visit svdphouston.org. †
Pray for the following priests whose anniversaries of death are during the month of March.
March 1, 1874 Rev. William McSweeney
March 1, 2013 Msgr. Albert J. Beck
March 2, 2003 Rev. Joseph R. Murphy, SSJ
March 3, 1947 Rev. John Casserly
March 5, 1918 Rev. J.L. Bussant
March 6, 1992 Rev. Marius Zadinski, OCARM
March 7, 1933 Rev. John E. Kalas
March 8, 1976 Msgr. Francis Klinkacek
March 8, 1983 Rev. Lawrence J. MacLellan, SSJ
March 10, 1987 Rev. Joel Gromowski, CP
March 11, 2010 Rev. Hubert J. Kealy
March 12, 1886 Rev. Augustine d’Asti, OFM
March 12, 1979 Rev. Alois J. Pavelka
March 13, 1996 Msgr. John L. Fos
March 14, 1861 Rev. Jacques S. Valois
March 14, 1994 Rev. Thomas J. Sheehy, SCJ
March 14, 2008 Rev. Jerome Burnet, OMI
March 15, 1898 Bishop Peter Dufal, CSC
March 15, 1921 Rev. T.A. Billy
March 15, 1924 Rev. Claude C. Clair
March 16, 1929 Rev. William J. Skocek
March 16, 1991 Rev. Marion L. Polker
March 17, 1916 Rev. William Marr, CSC
March 18, 1992 Rev. John R. Feidler
March 18, 2003 Rev. Gabriel Akemu, MSP
March 18, 2013 Rev. Robert D. Carlson
March 20, 2001 Rev. D. Richard Toye, SJ
March 21, 1922 Rev. Wenceslaus Demel
March 21, 1932 Rev. P.M. Lennartz
March 21, 1955 Rev. Thomas P. O’Rourke, CSB
March 21, 2009 Rev. Gerald Donovan, OP
March 23, 1934 Rev. Bernard Lee
March 24, 1990 Bishop John L. Morkovsky
March 24, 1996 Rev. Sofronio A. Aranda
March 25, 1941 Msgr. Ignatius J. Szymanski
March 25, 1978 Rev. Richard J. Jeffery, CSB
March 26, 1880 Rev. Lawrence Glynn
March 27, 1930 Rev. J.H. Kelly
March 27, 1942 Rev. Kasper Kacer
March 27, 2000 Rev. John E. McManus, CSB
March 28, 2008 Msgr. William L. Broussard
March 31, 1988 Bishop Vincent M. Harris
March 31, 1994 Rev. Richard J. Allard, CSB
Father Francis A. Frankovich
HOUSTON — Father Francis A. Frankovich, former director of the Catholic Charismatic Center, died Feb. 13. He was 81 years old.
After six years as director, he ministered to the Spanish-speaking community at the Catholic Charismatic Center and worked with a team of people to organize a greater development of the Companions of the Cross throughout the Archdiocese. Father Frankovich also did missionary-type work in places including Mexico, Colombia, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Peru and in the Dominican Republic.
A funeral Mass was held Monday, Feb. 19, at the Catholic Charismatic Center. Burial will be private. †
Deacon Pete Melancon
CROSBY — Deacon Pete Melancon died Feb. 12. He was 69 years old.
A funeral Mass was held Feb. 15 at Sacred Heart Church in Crosby. Interment is in Sterling White Cemetery in Highlands. †
Father Kenneth O’Malley, C.P.
DETROIT, Michigan — Father Kenneth O’Malley, C.P., former spiritual director at St. Mary’s Seminary, died Jan. 23. He was 87 years old.
For many years he lived with and served in Houston’s Passionist community as local superior of the community at Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center, as “help” in Archdiocesan parishes and as a spiritual director at St. Mary’s Seminary.
A funeral Mass was held Thursday, Feb. 2, at St. Paul of the Cross Retreat Center Chapel in Detroit, Michigan. Interment is in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan. †
Father Richard E. Paulissen, M.M.
MARYKNOLL, New York — Father Richard E. Paulissen, M.M., died Jan. 19. He was 92 years old.
A Maryknoll priest for 60 years, Father Paulissen founded the Catholic Charismatic Center in 1972 in Houston and served as its director until his retirement in 1999.
A memorial Mass was held Thursday, Jan. 25, at Queen of Apostles Chapel in Maryknoll, New York. †
HOUSTON — The Archdiocesan Spelling Bee took place on Feb. 7 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church and School in Houston.
Thirty-eight contestants registered for the Middle School Bee and 40 for the Elementary Bee.
The Elementary Bee was a marathon, going 20 rounds.
The winning words were “repercussion” (middle school) and “asthmatic” (elementary school).
Middle school winners are first place Jonas Mendoza from St. Laurence Catholic School, second place Bella Fiore from St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School and third place Calvin Meaux from Regis School of the Sacred Heart.
Mendoza and Fiore have earned a place in the 2024 Scripps Regional Spelling Bee hosted by Houston Community College in March. Meaux will be the alternate if one of the students cannot compete.
Elementary school winners are first place Mischa Arias from St. Anne Catholic School in Tomball and second place Jaiden Reyes of Our Lady Queen of Peace in Richwood. †
Last year, St. Helen Catholic School in Pearland applied for and won a $20,000 technology grant from Phillips 66 in
their employees brought the ceremonial
As I look back on my earlier years, giving up something, including meat on Ash Wednesday and Fridays, was just a part of what we did to prepare ourselves to appreciate the sacrifice of Christ. A St. Joseph Altar was a big part of our family tradition; during Lent, gathering to bake and cook to help feed the poor was our sacrifice of love and praying for those who were ill or struggling, asking for God’s healing touch. Today, this tradition is still part of our family. With our children, we gather to pray, read Scripture, and discuss our Catholic faith; now, with God’s grace, we teach our grandchildren these traditions.
There are many ways families enrich themselves in the Lenten journey and give back throughout the year. I connected with two of our seniors in parishes, and I was so amazed at what they had to say.
Barbara Murray, president of the Central Senior Senate, said, “As children, we were taught to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday and on Fridays during Lent. However, I do remember the time when Catholics did not eat meat
by GINA PASKET
on any Friday. We were also taught to give up eating sweets, going to the movies; and to make sacrifices. As we mature in our faith, we should use the Lenten season as a time for selfreflection to realize our shortcomings. Through prayer, fasting if our health permits, almsgiving, and other acts of charity, we can prepare ourselves to celebrate the Lord’s Resurrection at Easter.”
On my second week in the Office of Aging, Shirley Smaistrla and her daughter Karen Olsovsky came to the office bringing 1,000 handmade rosaries, crafted by their senior group for our office to distribute them where needed. I was so intrigued to learn more about this “act of service.” I had the opportunity to visit with Shirley and the Sacred Heart of Jesus “Rosary Guild” in Manvel to learn more about this ministry.
During my visit, I learned about other
services within this group. It was a privilege to meet and spend time with this group.
When asked how rosary crafting began, Shirley did not hesitate to share she was not the person who started this act of love.
Sister Teresita and Sister Dorothy were the founders of this service opportunity. Their vision was a way to give back to the Archdiocese “Third Agers” Ministry.
Shirley shared it was a while before she said “Yes” to their invitation, and now she leads the Rosary Guild group and teaches others to make these rosaries. Through this service, she has made many friends and built lifelong relationships; she can’t imagine it not being a part of her life. Shirley shared that after they are taught to make rosaries, they can choose to pick up supplies and make them at home. However, for these ladies, it’s not just about making the rosaries and getting together. They found healing, great bonding, and even helping each other get through difficult times.
“There are many ways families enrich themselves in the Lenten journey and give back throughout the year.”
To my surprise, the Archdiocese Aging Ministry were not the only ones receiving these rosaries. In various areas in Africa, the military during a war and other parishes also did. At this Sacred Heart of Jesus in Manvel, for Pentecost, special rosaries are created and offered to everyone at the Liturgy. †
Gina Pasket is an associate director with the Office of Aging.
With the Lenten season comes talk of penance, almsgiving and mastery of the self, as taught and modeled by Jesus Christ according to the Gospels. All these practices are perfectly aligned with the teachings of the Holy Mother Church as well as with the teachings, witness and testimony of saints across history and across the wide spectrum of spiritualities that we can safely adopt in our efforts to follow Christ.
All too often, however, the language we use to describe the purpose and effects of these practices points to the individual who practices them as their purpose and their end. The language we use focuses on the virtues they reveal and the moral character they form. Only tangentially do the practices imply that the end of our call to master ourselves is to be able to then empty ourselves onto others, as Jesus did. Missionary discipleship is the end of all penance, almsgiving, mastery of self and all acts of piety we are called to do.
Missionary discipleship is the purpose and the end of all evangelizations and of a well-rounded catechesis. Missionary discipleship is the purpose and the end of the season of Lent.
Let’s not confuse our call to be missionary disciples with the more common stereotype of proselytizing. Admirable as it is that men and women of all ages take on their Bible under their arm and go out into the world, knocking on doors to share the good news of Jesus to willing and unwilling alike, we are called to be missionary disciples in a far less extreme but perhaps a more transcendental form.
We are called to mission to our family members, neighbors, coworkers and classmates by modeling the teachings of Jesus and sharing what Jesus, His Church and our faith have done and are doing for each one of us. You do not need to memorize John 3:16 and recite it to everyone you know. All you need
to do is to make sure that everyone who knows you know that you are a Catholic Christian, that your community of faith is a place where your feel safe, a place where you are appreciated for the mere fact that you are human being and a child of God, and that in your community of faith everyone is welcomed.
To be a missionary disciple, all you need to be able to do is to share your “faith story” with someone else and extend an invitation to join you in your CCE class, your adult formation class, your parish mission, your confirmation or communion preparation to meet the great people that you have met there.
This, of course, assumes that your parish is a place where visitors are welcomed with open arms, where nobody, absolutely nobody is turned away or looked at funny because of beliefs, life choices, or appearance. Suppose we do a good job at accepting everyone unconditionally as a part of our communities. In that case,
by MIGUEL VENCES
the Holy Spirit will find the right time and the right means to catechize them into the teachings of the Church and call them to conversion. Our world is clamoring for safe places where all are welcomed, valued and recognized as children of God. This Lenten season let’s focus our talk, our evangelization efforts, and our catechesis about penance, almsgiving, and mastery of the self with a focus on its rightful purpose resulting in missionary discipleship. †
Miguel Vences is an associate director with the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.
Several weeks ago, I visited one of our parish young adult groups to give a talk about Eucharistic miracles. The young adults were doing a speaker series in response to the call of the National Eucharistic Revival, and I was happy to join them to share on this topic. As one of the main points, I explained that Eucharistic miracles often happened at a moment when a person of faith — in many stories a priest — encountered doubts. I asked the young adults if they had ever experienced doubt, and after the initial hesitant looks around the room, several finally raised their hands.
For people of faith, admitting to doubt can be a very difficult thing. We don’t like to admit when we experience doubt and hesitation in believing everything the Church teaches. According to Hebrews, “faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen”
by ANGELA POMETTO
This year, Ash Wednesday coincides with Valentine’s Day. This unique occurrence makes us consider the many ways we are called to “love one another.” Traditionally, the day focuses on romantic love. Yet, as the Lenten season begins this year, we can look more deeply at “agape love” — the love that draws us out of ourselves to care for the needs of others.
If we open our minds and hearts, we begin to see the many needs around us: children, the elderly, and people facing sickness, disabilities and challenges of all kinds. If we look even deeper, we see these challenges exacerbated by poverty, violence and natural disasters.
Through various structures, the Catholic Church has developed ways for its members to respond to the needs of others around the world. Through the Pontifical Mission Societies, we help build churches, seminaries, schools, and clinics in struggling areas around the world. Through Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Lenten program, we respond with the corporal works of mercy — feeding and sheltering our international brothers and sisters in need.
CRS is the official international relief and development agency for the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops. Founded in 1943 to respond to the aftermath of war, this organization offers Americans an opportunity to support a wide variety of hunger and poverty alleviation programs.
From instruction in good farming techniques with chickens and goats to financial and loan management, CRS staff members in over 100 countries help
MOVIE RATINGS By OSV News
A-I – SUITABLE FOR ALL
• Migration (PG)
A-II – SUITABLE FOR OLDER CHILDREN
• Trolls Band Together (PG)
A-III – ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS
• American Fiction (R)
• Argylle (PG-13)
• Bob Marley: One Love (PG-13)
• I.S.S. (R)
(11:1). As humans, it is a very natural thing to doubt in something that is not seen. In fact, we have a long history of humans struggling between doubt and faith.
Take the story of Moses and the burning bush. Moses believed because he saw the sign of the burning bush and heard the voice of God speak from the bush. But when God asked him to return to Egypt to free the Israelites, one of his first questions was how the Israelite people would believe him. Moses asks God, “But suppose the people do not believe me or listen to me? For they may say, ‘The Lord did not appear to you’” (Ex 3:1). He knew they would encounter
by HILDA OCHOA
doubts, and in response to this reality, God turned Moses’ staff into a snake and back again.
God has been dealing with humans and our doubts since the beginning of time. It is not a surprise to God when we encounter doubt. When we encounter doubts in our hearts, the important thing is to turn back to God and share those doubts with the one who can offer answers and the assurance we need to continue with eyes of faith. This is what happened on so many occasions when a Eucharistic miracle occurred. The person of faith brought their doubts to God, and He showed Himself in a new, real and powerful way.
In today’s culture — even among faithful Catholics — I fear that we’ve forgotten that it’s okay to bring our doubts to the Lord. Instead of turning to Christ, we post our doubts on social
people improve their living conditions with dignity and respect.
CRS has also developed an educational program and an organized approach for donation collection with posters and boxes that can be ordered at crsricebowl. org. Started 50 years ago, U.S. CRS Rice Bowl guides Catholics to a better understanding of the living situations faced by families in other countries. Each year, three spokespersons tell their “Stories of Hope” — from Asia, Africa and Latin America. This year, the featured videos are from El Salvador, Uganda and Indonesia, depicted on www. CRSRiceBowl.
A Lenten calendar, included inside the Rice Bowls boxes can also be downloaded from the website, offering a prayer, fasting or almsgiving activity for each day of Lent. Recipes of the meals eaten in other countries are included, as well as suggestions for home and parish gatherings and Lenten prayer services.
At the conclusion of Lent, donations shared are gathered by diocesan directors and sent to the national CRS office in Baltimore for distribution to the worldwide programs. Twenty-five percent of funds raised are retained by a diocese to be used for local hunger prevention programs. In the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, the outreach programs at St. Justin Martyr, St. Leo the Great and Our Lady of Guadalupe-
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• Madame Web (PG-13)
• Maestro (R)
• Mean Girls (PG-13)
• Night Swim (PG-13)
• Origin (PG-13)
L – LIMITED MATURE AUDIENCE
• The Iron Claw (R)
O – MORALLY OFFENSIVE
• Saltburn (O)
• The Beekeeper (R)
Baytown parishes recently received funds from 25% of the Archdiocese’s total CRS collection.
CRS Rice Bowl has adopted the slogan “For Lent, For Life.” This year, with the start of Valentine’s Day, we can add, “For Lent, For Life, For Love.” May we expand our expression of love to include the
media with a silly hashtag or turn to a random talking head on YouTube to try and find an answer to the questions that arise in our hearts.
When we encounter doubts or questions or confusion — about the Eucharist, about the Trinity, about the Church’s teaching on chastity, or even about the nature of the Church itself — stop turning to Google for help! Instead, bring those doubts to the only one who has an answer. Bring your doubts to Christ in prayer. Ask Him to bring you away from doubt and confusion and back to faith. I believe that is a prayer that will be answered in a new, real and powerful way. †
Angela Pometto is the director of the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry.
parents, grandparents, children, brothers and sisters around the world who will receive sustenance and support through CRS Rice Bowl. †
Hilda Ochoa is the director of the Mission Office.
BOLOGNA, Italy (CNS) — Incense slowly drifted upward, not below the vaulted ceiling of Bologna’s Basilica of San Petronio, but toward the fluorescent lighting and steel beams in the city’s convention center, which for three days bore the trappings of a temple rather than those of a corporate meeting place.
From Feb. 11 to 13, the Italian city hosted more than 200 vendors of religious art, liturgical attire and services for churches, who showcased their offerings at the Devotio International Religious Products and Services Exhibition, sponsored in part by the Vatican Dicastery for Culture and Education.
Retailers, owners of religious shops, wholesalers and manufacturers of religious goods were the primary buyers at the convention, though priests and religious sisters also represented a sizable portion of the crowd wandering through Bologna’s convention center. Organizers said more than 3,000 people attended.
The rows of booths displayed items ranging from liturgical supplies and garments to wine and unleavened bread for consecration; a booth dedicated to promoting the Camino de Santiago, a
popular pilgrimage route in northern Spain, also made a splash.
One day, a group of Franciscan friars could be seen assessing chalices and patens while religious sisters browsed wall art featuring the faces of saints painted onto hand-carved wooden shapes. One young priest shopped for a new chasuble in the company of his parents.
Solvari Garments, a liturgical vestment producer from Bergamo, Italy, prominently displayed a Roman chasuble, predominantly used in the celebration of Mass prior to the Second Vatican Council. A company representative told Catholic News Service (CNS) he had not seen increased sales of Roman chasubles in recent years, but he put it at the front of his display “because everyone can appreciate beauty.”
Enzo Gandolfo of Gandolfo wines from Sicily had bottles of Mass wine available for sampling. Although wine used for consecration is not necessarily intended to optimize taste, “it’s important for priests to have something they like” when celebrating Mass, he told CNS.
Reappearing constantly among the rows of devotional items was the face of
Blessed Carlo Acutis — the Italian website designer who cataloged Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions online before dying from leukemia at 15. Many are hoping for his canonization and are calling for him to be declared patron saint of the internet.
Elisabetta Bertelli, founder of Stringila religious art, displayed a cross-shaped pillow with Blessed Carlo’s face. She said the pillows are not designed to be slept on but to be held onto during prayer, putting the person praying in physical contact with the cross.
Bertelli told CNS she wanted to put Blessed Carlo’s face on the pillow with the hopes of spreading the beauty of prayer to young people. “He’s a young person who has inspired so many,” she said.
Another booth was dedicated to official gear for the Holy Year 2025, including the pilgrim’s kit and backpack which was presented at the expo. The kit includes items necessary for any pilgrim: a hat, rain poncho, water bottle, scarf and, of course, a rosary.
“I know well how useful a backpack can be during a pilgrimage and how important it is to preserve it, with the signs of time and wear, as a witness full of memories of those days of prayer and reflection, full of emotions and therefore unforgettable,” said Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the Vatican official in charge of coordinating plans for the Holy Year, in a statement. The Holy Year office will begin distributing the pilgrim kits to individuals online and at an official Holy Year shop in Rome in March and also will distribute them in partnership with
dioceses and pilgrimage groups.
Beyond religious products, vendors at the expo also offered services such as designing and installing audio systems or lighting structures for churches.
Thomas Nell, senior partner at Spotlight — a professional lighting services firm for the performing arts — said that while his company does not specialize in lighting for religious spaces, churches are performative as well as contemplative structures, and proper lighting “can help lift someone upward spiritually.”
Yet churches often “go for what is cheap” and buy harsh fluorescent lights, he said, even though good lighting “can change the look of an entire space.”
In one of the most engaging booth displays, Sofia Malavasi was scraping and shaping stained glass to form a floral decal. An apprentice at a local stainedglass workshop in Bologna, Malavasi told CNS that as a young person she hoped to advance the rich legacy of stainedglass work even as interest in churches and religious art wanes. She said that when she started her training, she was surprised and encouraged to learn how many people have stained glass in their homes.
But Malavasi was most proud of her workshop’s coordination of the massive restoration of the windows in the Basilica of San Petronio in Bologna.
“It was incredible to see the difference,” she said, recalling how volunteers in the basilica were struck by how much natural light entered the space “just by restoring the glass to how it was intended to look.” †
(OSV News) — Lisa Lopez-Galvan, a Catholic mother of two and beloved disc jockey for the KKFI radio station in Kansas City, Missouri, was killed Wednesday, Feb. 14, amid a mass shooting following the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory parade.
“It is with sincere sadness and an extremely heavy and broken heart that we let our community know that KKFI DJ Lisa Lopez, host of Taste of Tejano, lost her life today in the shooting at the KC Chiefs’ rally,” the radio station announced on Facebook that Wednesday evening. “This senseless act has taken a beautiful person from her family and this KC Community.”
Lopez-Galvan was an active parishioner at Sacred Heart-Guadalupe Parish in Kansas City, Missouri, where she was fondly remembered by her fellow parishioners.
Ramona Arroyo, director of religious education at the parish, told OSV News that Lopez-Galvan’s whole family is “devoted to the church.” Her brother, Beto Lopez Jr., is the chief executive officer of Guadalupe Centers, one of the nation’s first social service agencies for the Latino community.
Arroyo said the loss was “devastating” to the community. “She was a beautiful person,” Arroyo said. She expressed her sympathy for Lopez-Galvan’s husband, Michael, saying, “It’s a horrible thing that happened to a good family.”
The Kansas City Star reported that Lopez-Galvan, who was in her mid40s with two adult children, died in the hospital during surgery after a gunshot wound to her abdomen.
Arroyo and Palacio said LopezGalvan, a known Chiefs fan, was at the parade with her family, including her son and nieces and nephews, and they had heard that other family members had been injured as well.
Father Luis Suárez, parochial administrator of Sacred Heart-Guadalupe Parish, remembered Lopez-Galvan in his homily at the Ash Wednesday evening Mass and encouraged the community to unite in prayer amid the tragedy.
A online fundraiser benefitted the family’s expenses, which received donations, including $100,000 from Grammy-winning recording artist Taylor Swift.
Monica Palacio, another parishioner who knew Lopez-Galvan, said the shooting was a “tragedy for our whole community because everybody knows the family” and they “grew up within blocks of each other.”
She also noted Lopez-Galvan’s role as host of Tejano Tuesdays at KKFI and as a well-known DJ presence at local weddings and quinceañeras.
“She was an amazing person,” Palacio said. “She was full of joy all the time, no
matter where she was.”
Palacio remembered Lopez-Galvan as the “life of the party” who “came with red lipstick and a big smile.”
Lopez-Galvan will be laid to rest in a Harrison Butker jersey, who was her favorite player. The Kansas City Chiefs star kicker, who is a devoted Catholic, personally gave the jersey to her family. †
with DANIEL CARDINAL DINARDO
Este año, el Miércoles de Ceniza coincide con el Día de San Valentín. Este hecho singular nos lleva a considerar las muchas maneras en que estamos llamados a “amarnos unos a otros”. Tradicionalmente, el día de San Valentín se centra en lo que conocemos como amor romántico. Sin embargo, al comenzar la temporada de Cuaresma este año, podemos mirar con mayor profundidad a lo que se llama “amor ágape”, el amor que nos hace salir de nosotros mismos para enfocarnos en las necesidades de los demás.
Si abrimos nuestra mente y nuestro corazón, comenzamos a ver las muchas necesidades a nuestro alrededor. Niños, ancianos, personas que enfrentan enfermedades, discapacidades y desafíos de todo tipo. Si miramos aún con mayor detenimiento, vemos estos desafíos exacerbados por la pobreza, la violencia y los desastres naturales.
A través de diversas estructuras, la Iglesia Católica ha desarrollado maneras en las cuales sus miembros puedan responder a las necesidades de los
por HILDA OCHOA
demás alrededor del mundo. A través de las Obras Misionales Pontificias, ayudamos a construir iglesias, seminarios, escuelas y clínicas en áreas de mayor pobreza alrededor del mundo. A través del programa cuaresmal Operación Plato de Arroz de la organización Catholic Relief Services (CRS), respondemos uniendo nuestros corazones con Dios y con el prójimo. CRS es la agencia oficial internacional de ayuda y desarrollo de la Conferencia Episcopal de los Estados Unidos. Fundada en 1943 para responder a las secuelas de la guerra, esta organización con presencia en 120 países, sirve a más de 85 millones de personas ayudando a las poblaciones más vulnerables, sobrevivientes de desastres naturales y emergencias. Una vez satisfechas las necesidades
inmediatas de alimentación, agua y albergue, CRS les proporciona una variedad de programas de reconstrucción con el fin de ayudarles a mejorar sus condiciones de vida ofreciendo soluciones sostenibles que puedan crear un impacto duradero.
Para la población católica de los Estados Unidos, CRS ha desarrollado un programa cuaresmal llamado CRS Plato de Arroz.
Mediante dicho programa que comenzó hace 50 años, se nos invita a responder mediante la oración, el ayuno y la limosna al mismo tiempo que reflexionamos y conocemos las situaciones que enfrentan las familias en otros países. Cada año, se presentan tres “Historias de Esperanza”. Este año, los videos destacados son de El Salvador, Uganda e Indonesia, representados en www.CRSRiceBowl.
También se puede descargar del sitio web un calendario de Cuaresma, incluido dentro de las cajas de los Platos de Arroz, que ofrece una actividad de oración, ayuno o limosna para cada día de Cuaresma. Se incluyen recetas de comidas originarias de otros países, así como sugerencias para reuniones y servicios de oración.
Al concluir la Cuaresma, los directores diocesanos reúnen las donaciones compartidas y las envían a la oficina nacional de CRS en Baltimore para su distribución a los programas mundiales. El 25% de los fondos recaudados se retienen en la Arquidiócesis para utilizarse en programas parroquiales de ayuda a los necesitados de la localidad. En la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston, las parroquias beneficiadas recientemente fueron St. Justin Martyr, St. Leo the Great y Our Lady of Guadalupe en Baytown.
CRS Rice Bowl ha adoptado el lema “Por la Cuaresma, por la vida”. Este año, con su inicio el Día de San Valentín, podríamos agregar: “Por la Cuaresma, por la vida, por el amor”. Oremos por poder extender nuestra expresión de amor para incluir a los padres, abuelos, hijos, hermanos y hermanas de todo el mundo que recibirán sustento y apoyo a través del programa Operación Plato de Arroz de CRS. †
Hilda Ochoa es la directora de la Oficina de Misiones.
► FOR SUBMISSION DETAILS AND MORE LISTINGS, VISIT WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.
MARCH 1-3
WEEKEND SPANISH RETREAT, 3 p.m. Friday to 6 p.m. Sunday, Mount Carmel House of Prayer (9600 Deer Trail Dr., Houston). Spanish silent retreat for young adults and adults, men and women, provides a space to find God deep within. Cost: $200, includes private room, shared bathroom and meals. Text: 281-799-0902.
SILENT LENTEN RETREAT, 7 p.m. Friday to 11 a.m. Sunday, Christian Renewal Center (1515 Hughes Rd., Dickinson). Spiritual Director Kim Brown leads meditative retreat with daily Mass, confession and spiritual direction. Cost: $259 for single, $429 for shared room. reatreatcentercrc.org/events.
MARCH 2
THEOLOGY CONFERENCE, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sacred Heart (109 N Frazier St., Conroe). Eucharistic Conference includes Mass, confessions, Adoration, fellowship and presentations by Scott Hahn and John Bergsma.
FRIDAYS OF LENT
CHRIST THE KING, noon to 6 p.m. (4419 N. Main, Houston). Fish fry from $12 to $15 per plate.
HOLY FAMILY, 5 to 7 p.m. (7721 Whiting Rock, Baytown). $15 plates of catfish, potato salad, green beans and dessert. Dine in or drive thru. 281-426-8448.
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (7250 Harrisburg, Houston). $13 plates includes fried fish, French fries, hush puppies, salad and corn. 713-921-1261.
OUR LADY OF LOURDES, 4 to 6:30 p.m. (KC Hall, 11100 Hwy. 6, Santa Fe). KofC #10393 fish fry with $12 plates of fried or baked fish, French fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, veggies, tea or water and desserts. Dine in or carry out.
OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (1401 Fidelity St., Houston). $15 fish fry or crawfish etouffee plates with green beans and potato salad and $20 crawfish etouffee and fish combos. Dine in or carry out. Delivery available for 10 orders or more. 713-674-9206.
SACRED HEART, 4 to 7:30 p.m. (507 Fourth St., Richmond). $12 plate includes fried or grilled fish, green beans, coleslaw, French fries and hush puppies. Desserts are also available. Dine in, carry out or drive thru.
SACRED HEART OF JESUS, 5 to 7 p.m. (Columbus Hall, 129 CR 146, Alvin). KofC #6403 host a fish fry with $12 dinner plates.
ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA, 5 to 7 p.m. (7801 Bay Branch Dr., The Woodlands). KofC #12327 fish fry host with fried catfish filets, French fries, hush puppies, coleslaw and tartar sauce for $14. Desserts available for purchase.
ST. CECILIA, 5:30 to 8 p.m. (11720 Joan of Arc Dr., Houston). KofC fish fry with fried or baked fish plates (Adults: $12; Seniors: $10; Kids under 10: $7) with French fries, hush puppies, coleslaw and macaroni and cheese for kids. Drinks and desserts also available. Add shrimp for $3. Dine in or drive thru. saintcecilia.org.
ST. CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA, 5:30 to 8 p.m. (10503 Westheimer Rd., Houston). KofC #8024 fish fry with fried or baked fish plates ($12 for adults,
Cost: $35. stpaulcenter.com/conroe2024.
MARCH 3
TURKEY AND DRESSING DINNER, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sealy Columbus Hall (1310 Hwy. 90 West). Event features silent, live and JCDA silent auctions and more. $15 plates include turkey and dressing, gravy, green beans, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, hot roll and tea. Desserts and variety of homemade cheese rolls ($20) also available. Pre-Order: 281-460-0875. Dine in, take out or drive thru. 832-677-6951.
MARCH 14
ITALIAN MASS & LUNCH, 10:30 a.m., Italian Cultural & Community Center (1101 Milford St., Houston). Mass celebrated by Father Julian Gerosa, CRS, followed by an authentic Italian lunch ($10) of pasta, meatballs, salad, dessert and iced tea or coffee. 713-524-4222; iccchouston.com.
MARCH 16
ST. JOSEPH ALTAR, 6:30 p.m., St. Ignatius Loyola - Christus Center (7810 Cypresswood Dr., Spring). Event follows 5:15 p.m. Mass with
$10 for seniors, $8 for kids) with sides. Desserts by Women of St. Cyril Group.
ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST, lunch 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinner 5 to 7 p.m. (800 W. Baker Rd., Baytown). CDA Court Mary St. John #2197 $12 fish fry is catered by Catfish on Wheels. Dine in or take out. 281-837-8180.
ST. LAURENCE, 5 to 8 p.m. (3100 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land). KofC fish fry plates ($15 for adults and $8 for kids) with hush puppies, fries, tater tots, green beans, and coleslaw. $56 to-go family four-pack meal includes fish, hush puppies, fries, tater tots, green beans, and coleslaw, pre-order only. stlaurence.org/fish-fry.
ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST, 4 to 7 p.m. (11011 Hall Rd., Houston). KofC #9201 fish fry with $15 fried fish plates with French fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, corn on the cob and ice tea. Homemade desserts by the Catholic Daughters also available. Dine in or drive thru.
ST. MARY OF THE PURIFICATION, 11 a.m. (3006 Rosedale, Houston). Fish dinners will be sold in the center.
ST. MARY MAGDALENE, 5 to 7 p.m. (527 S Houston Ave., Humble). $12 meal includes fried fish, French fries, coleslaw and hush puppies. Dine in, carry out or drive thru.
ST. MONICA, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (8421 West Montgomery Rd., Houston). Features fried fish for $15 and baked fish for $18 dinners with green beans, potato salad, bread and of cake; fried fish sandwiches with chips for $8, and garden salad for $5. Sweets also for sale. Dine in, carry out. Delivery available for 10-plus orders. 832-567-8539.
ST. PETER CLAVER, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (6005 N. Wayside Dr., Houston). KPC and Ladies Auxiliary fish fry with $15 fried fish or crawfish ettoufee, or $20 combos, all served with green beans, potato salad, bread, cake and soda or water.
Pre-Order: 713-674-3338. Day of: 832-786-0668.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (6800 Buffalo Speedway). KofC #10390 host a fish fry with $10 meal of fish (fried or baked), two sides (rice, green beans or coleslaw) and corn bread. Drive-thru available.
traditional children’s saints procession to Christus Center and Sicilian pasta dinner, with homemade Italian treats by St. Joseph’s Altar Guild available for purchase. Raffle drawings conclude the night. Free, open to the public. stjosephaltarguild@silcc.org; 713-825-4576.
ST. JOSEPH ALTAR, after 5 p.m. Mass, St. Helen (2209 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland). Procession from Mass for the traditional “Tupa-Tupa” to a pasta dinner served in Helena Hall. Donate via Venmo: @Kaylin-Olson. 281-485-2421.
MARCH 17
ST. JOSEPH ALTAR, Christ the Redeemer (11507 Huffmeister Rd., Houston). Proceeds of 15th annual St. Joseph Altar benefit Cypress Assistance Ministries. Free admission. Meal tickets cost: $10 per adult, $5 per child 10 and under. gomaryannrowell@gmail.com; ctrcc. com/st-joseph-altar.
MARCH 21
PRESENTATION, St. Helen (2209 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland). “Made for More” features a blend of teaching, live music and art by Christopher West and Mike Mangione, offering a vision of
the Gospel through St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. Cost: $25. Tickets: M4MTX. eventbrite.com. paul@sthelenchurch.org.
MARCH 22
FISH FRY, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., St. Rose of Lima (3600 Brinkman St., Houston). $13 plate includes fried catfish, hush puppies, French fries, coleslaw, and iced tea. Pre-order: stroselima.org/events.
MARCH 22-24
WEEKEND RETREAT, Ruah Center at Villa de Matel (6510 Lawndale St., Houston). “Dancing with the Divine: Claiming Your Sacred Story through the 12-Steps” is a contemplative recovery retreat open to anyone working a 12-Step program, led by Eileen Meinert. Suggested donation $250. For registration include name, phone and email address. Register: jeasley@ ccvi-vdm.org.
For additional listings, visit WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA
TEXAS CITY — The Fatima Education Foundation (FEF), established in 2006 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, tax-exempt philanthropic organization, supports quality education for Our Lady of Fatima School (OLOF) students by generating and distributing resources to enrich, maintain and expand programs to meet OLOF’s stated mission of excellence in education and preserve Christian values.
Annually, the FEF awards grants to the Texas City school’s teachers and staff for innovative and creative
educational projects. Since its inception, more than $400,000 has been donated to the foundation, and over $350,000 has been awarded to teachers for classroom enhancements. Board members consist of former Fatima students, parents, grandparents and parishioners of St. Mary of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in Texas City.
The FEF awarded grants totaling more than $12,300 to teachers Natalie Koenning, Cynthia Del Bosque, Rhonda Oyakshshire, Rachel SainesDay and Luis Herrera. †
HOUSTON — San José Clinic has presented Dr. Mary Neal, a volunteer with the clinic, the Mrs. Katie Carroll 2023 Volunteer of the Year award.
Originally from Louisiana, Neal made her way to Texas in 1979 to complete her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine, following the attainment of her medical degree from LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. With more than 25 years of dedicated service, she practiced with Obstetrical and Gynecological Associates at Woman’s Hospital of Texas until her retirement in 2009.
Upon retiring, Neal embarked on a new journey as a medical volunteer at San José Clinic, where she diligently attends
to gynecological patients twice a week. In addition to her local contributions, she has also been actively involved in medical mission trips to Guatemala with Faith in Practice. Notably, Neal serves on Medical Bridges and the LSU Foundation boards.
Reflecting on her involvement with the clinic, Neal said,“San José Clinic is a wonderful blessing, allowing me to use my knowledge and skills to serve people who really need our help.”
She said she always feels that she receives more than she gives by working with the clinic’s grateful patients and wonderful staff, “as well as mentoring some of our young volunteers who plan to pursue a future career in medicine.” †
HOUSTON — A new pavilion honors a longtime and beloved former school principal at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and School in Houston. The community celebrated the blessing and dedication of its new parish pavilion, named after former school principal Diane Wooten, on Jan. 27 in Houston.
The structure was donated by Albert Clay III and his family and constructed by Clay Development Corp. The gift marks a significant milestone in the parish’s history.
Naming the facility the Diane Wooten Pavilion honors the enduring legacy of the cherished religious education director, teacher and former principal. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by members of the Wooten and Clay families, along with other community members, signifies a
of unity and shared dedication to the parish and school’s mission. †