Texas Catholic Herald - Sept. 12, 2023

ANTHEM VOICES

Archdiocesan Choir takes to Minute Maid Park to sing the National Anthem

▪ SEE PAGE 3

CELEBRATING

BISHOP GUILLORY Mass honors Beaumont bishop’s birthday, legacy

▪ SEE PAGE 20

Proclaiming the Good News to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston since 1964

CALLED BY NAME

Galveston-Houston pilgrims trek to Lisbon for World Youth Day 2023

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald

EDUCATION

Back-to-school Mass unites teachers, staff in prayer for new year

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald

HOUSTON — To welcome the new school year in prayer, about 1,000 teachers and staff filled the downtown Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart on Aug. 11 to celebrate a back-to-school Mass with Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS.

“For our precious and life-giving students, we will seek to serve and teach,” Cardinal DiNardo said in his homily.

The theme for the school year is “This is Jesus,” based on Matthew 26:26 and the Eucharistic Revival. Cardinal DiNardo and Catholic Schools Office staff also presented

See MASS, page 4

HOUSTON — Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, speaking to more than 300 deacons at their annual convocation Aug. 5, urged them to accept changes in future formation that could reassign them to serve other parishes in need rather than just their “home” parish.

“We need to have a larger sense of our home Church as in our entire Archdiocese,” Cardinal DiNardo told the audience of deacons and their wives, as well as those in formation to become deacons in their meeting at St. Mary’s Seminary.

Just as priests are assigned by Cardinal DiNardo to various parishes, so will future deacons, beginning

See DIACONATE, page 6

WORLD YOUTH DAY

LISBON — At a quick glance, a Texas flag flapping in the wind sure does look a lot like the flag of the South American country of Chile. This common mistake often united eager Chileans with friendly Texans at World Youth Day (WYD) in Lisbon, Portugal, eliciting laughs and Spanish (though sometimes broken) conversation and a happy exchange. Even so, with rosaries and American (and Texan!) flags in hand, a delegation of 311 pilgrims from the Archdiocese made the great adventure to Portugal’s capital city of Lisbon for WYD.

See LISBON, page 9

New diaconate formation changes to expand beyond their ‘home’ parish

“MARY SET OUT AND WENT WITH HASTE”

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Galveston-Houston Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, at right, listens as (from left to right) Maria Pacheco, Samantha Martinez, Cecilia Dao and Josceline Tenido speak during a special gathering of Houston pilgrims during World Youth Day at St. Caterina Church in Lisbon on Aug. 4. Bishop Dell’Oro welcomed Houston pilgrims and beyond to a special gathering to give the a space to reflect, pray and gather as a group.

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Newly ordained deacons lay face down on the ground during a Mass of Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate on Feb. 18 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston. Permanent deacons serve at parishes and ministries across the Archdiocese.

A Shepherd’s Message

By Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

We are amid the first weeks of the school year, and we are also beginning our religious education formation sessions for children, teens and young adults. We are also continuing our formation sessions for our children and adult catechumens. Because we are human persons, we are born to learn and be catechized. We also look to those who are generous in imparting knowledge and an ethic of goodness and beauty.

An act of thanks goes out to all the teachers in our schools: Catholic, private and public. Teachers are most frequently quiet, even unassuming. However, they are essential leaders and active agents in our culture who can inspire both young and old to learn and embody subjects worthy of human knowledge and discipline. How much we owe our teachers!

In the same breath, we must also honor all our catechists. In what is one of the oldest ministries in the Church, catechists generously give of themselves and share the deeper dimensions of their own Catholic faith. Catechists have the challenge to teach and proclaim publicly the genuine truth and beauty of the Catholic faith to children, adults, accomplished learners and new catechumens.

With the words and power of the Scriptures in their hands, with the prayer of the Our Father and Hail Mary in their heart, with the understanding of the faith and the Catechism in their heads, with the surrounding sound and beauty of Catholic art and imagination covering them, catechists go forth with boldness. They also must show great courage since nothing can be more

fearful than to teach the faith to a group of rowdy sixth-grade students! It is only God’s love manifesting itself through a catechist that explains who and what a catechist is and does. MAY THEIR NUMBERS INCREASE IN THIS LOCAL CHURCH IN ALL LANGUAGES!

Since we are celebrating a Eucharistic Revival this year in the Church in the United States, one of the major themes for catechesis this year is the Mystery of the Eucharist.

In an Apostolic Letter to the whole Church last year titled “Desiderio Desideravi,” Pope Francis gives eloquent expression to the purpose and meaning of the Liturgy and to his desire that there be a deepening catechesis and formation on the Liturgy for all God’s people.

In one beautiful section, the Holy

Father writes about amazement and astonishment before the Paschal Mystery, that is, the event of the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. The Christian Mystery is an event and not just a subjective feeling of interior grace before a vague sense of the eternal.

The Paschal deed of Jesus has the power to reach towards each one of us, here and now, with an abundance that goes beyond us to the end of time when Christ will come again in fullness. A human being is capable of symbolic action and symbolic understanding; Baptism makes one capable of a sacramental understanding.

The Holy Father wants us to “unpack” this sacramental understanding with the help of our catechists. It is a slow and patient kind of learning and acting. The liturgical celebration requires us to be active and prayerful listeners and celebrants. I hope that you will read his letter and study it.

Pray for our catechists (and all teachers) that they do their work well! †

THE HOLY FATHER’S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR SEPTEMBER

PRAYER INTENTION: FOR PEOPLE LIVING ON THE MARGINS

“How is it that we allow the ‘throwaway culture,’ in which millions of men and women are worth nothing compared to economic goods, to dominate our lives, our cities, our way of life?

“Let’s stop making invisible those who are on the margins of society, whether it’s due to poverty, addictions, mental illness or disability.”

St. Mary’s Seminary

9845 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77024

Let’s focus on accepting them, on welcoming all the people who need it. The “culture of welcoming,” of hospitality, of providing shelter, of giving a home, of offering love, of giving human warmth.

Let us pray for those people on the margins of society in subhuman living conditions, that they may not be neglected by institutions and never be cast out.” — Pope Francis

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ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON

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Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

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Managing Editor

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Advertising Manager

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Contributors

Nearly 50 men are currently in formation to become the next generations of priests at St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston. These men spend anywhere from 5 to 7 years preparing for their Ordination to the Priesthood.

To read more about our seminarians and how you can support them, visit www.archgh.org/smseminary.

The Texas Catholic Herald, an awardwinning member of The Catholic Media Association, is published semi-monthly on Tuesdays, with one issue in June, July and August, by The Texas Catholic Herald Publishing Co., Inc., 1700 San Jacinto St., Houston, TX 77002.

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TCH publishing schedule

Issue date: September 26

Deadline: Noon on September 5

Issue date: October 10

Deadline: Noon on September 19

You make the ministry of our future Priests possible.

†

Scan to watch this month’s prayer video from Pope Francis

El Cardenal Daniel DiNardo comparte su columna en línea en español. Visite www.archgh.org para leer su artículo en línea.

“The Paschal deed of Jesus has the power to reach towards each one of us, here and now, with an abundance that goes beyond us to the end of time when Christ will come again in fullness.”

THE FIRST WORD

WHOSE BROAD STRIPES AND BRIGHT STARS

Lopez directs the Archdiocesan Choir as they sing the National Anthem at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Aug. 24. To watch and hear their performance, visit WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/CHOIRANTHEM23 online or scan the QR code below.

Archdiocesan Choir lifts spirits at Minute Maid Park

HOUSTON — Ahead of the Houston Astros vs. Boston Red Sox game, the Archdiocesan Choir sang the National Anthem in center field at Minute Maid Park on Aug. 24 to loud applause.

Under the direction of Dr. Rick Lopez, this chorus of 60-plus voices from all over the Archdiocese provides music for liturgical events at the CoCathedral of the Sacred Heart, such as ordinations, the annual Chrism Mass and other Archdiocesan Liturgies celebrated by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo.

The Archdiocesan Choir provides liturgical music in the celebration of the designated Archdiocesan liturgies, serving as a model liturgical choir for the parishes of the Archdiocese. The Archdiocesan Choir has developed into one of the premier choral ensembles within the region. †

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PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS

Effective August 1

Father Joseph Nghi Dinh, O.P.

Pastor – Our Lady of Lavang

Father Dominic Quang Trinh Nguyen, O.P.

Parochial Vicar – Our Lady of Lavang

Father John Baptist Duc Nguyen, O.P.

Pastor – Our Lady of Lourdes, Houston

Father Vincent Hoang Nguyen, O.P.

Parochial Vicar – Our Lady of Lourdes, Houston

Effective August 7

Father Martin John Miller

In Residence, Opus Dei

Br. Dominic Phong Hoang Nguyen, O.P.

1 Year Diaconate Practicum – Our Lady of Lavang

Father Juan Ruiz, S.J.

Vocations Promotor/In Residence – Strake Jesuit College Preparatory of Houston

Effective August 9

Father Peter Ireorji, M.S.P.

Pastoral Ministry – Missionary Society of St. Paul, Houston Office

Effective August 15

Father Christopher L. Wetzel, O.P.

In Residence at Holy Rosary Priory

Effective September 1

Father Maurice Restivo, C.S.B.

Mission Procurator for the Basilian Fathers

BRIEFS

Mass for the Care of Creation, Oct. 3

HOUSTON — A Mass for the Care of Creation will be held at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 6622 Haskell St., at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 3, the day before the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. The Mass is sponsored by the Archdiocesan Secretariat for Social Concerns, the Sisters of Charity of Incarnate Word and the Houston Dominican Sisters.

Organizers encourage participants to watch “The Letter: A Message for Our Earth” before attending the Oct. 3 event. See the Around the Archdiocese section (p. 19) or visit www.archgh.org/socialconcernevents for screening times and locations. For more information, email bcruz@archgh.org or call 713-741-8769. †

Blue Mass set for Sept. 24

HOUSTON — Blue Mass will be celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, at 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, at St. Jerome Catholic Church, located at 8825 Kempwood Dr. in Houston. The color guard line up will be at 9:30 a.m.

The annual Mass is celebrated on behalf of civilian and law enforcement employees, police officers, their families and community supporters.

Officers are encouraged to wear dress uniforms without the hat. Agencies are encouraged to bring equipment for the public to see and to be blessed after the Mass. For more information, contact Deacon Alvin Lovelady at alovelady@archgh.org or call 713-741-8745. †

Registration open for gold, silver anniversary Masses

HOUSTON — The 2023 Wedding Anniversary Jubilee Masses honoring couples celebrating their Silver (25th) and Gold (50th) Anniversary of marriage in the Catholic Church are open for registration.

The Gold Anniversary Mass is set for Sunday, Sept. 24, at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, located at 1111 St. Joseph Pkwy. in downtown Houston, at 3 p.m. Couples can receive a special recognition whether they attend the ceremony or not. The Silver Anniversary Mass is set for Sunday, Oct. 29, also at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart at 3 p.m.

Registration for both the Gold and Silver Anniversary Masses is $40 per couple. The price includes an Archdiocesan certificate for each anniversary, a special issue worship aid and a commemorative pin. For more information and to register, visit www.archgh.org/flmevents. †

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

At left, Dr. Rick

SCAN TO WATCH

LOCAL

Almost 200 service awards recognize dedication

almost 200 service awards to teachers and principals celebrating milestone years of service.

Four major awards were given to top achievers, including the Archdiocesan Leadership Award to Father Jeff Johnson, SJ, of Strake Jesuit College Preparatory. The award honors an exemplary leader who significantly and positively impacted advancing Catholic education in the Archdiocese by involving people, events, programs, projects and teams in a common purpose.

The Sts. Peter and Paul Award was earned by Father Clark Sample, former St. Thomas More pastor and now vicar of clergy, along with the principal of St. Thomas More Catholic School, Carolina Bowman. That award is given to a pastor and principal who showed excellent

collaboration and cooperation in managing their school. Similarly, the Catholic Impact Award

was given to Our Lady of Guadalupe pastor Father Rafael Querobin, SCJ, with Our Lady of Guadalupe School

A Prayer for

Lord God, Your spirit of wisdom fills the earth and teaches us Your ways. Look upon these teachers and let them strive to share their knowledge with gentle patience and endeavor always to bring the truth to eager minds. Grant that they may follow Jesus Christ, the way, the truth and the life, forever and ever. Amen.

Principal Irazema Ortiz. Lastly, the Sally Landram Excellence in Education Award, which comes with a $1,500 award, was awarded to Jean Bauer, a teacher at St. Laurence Catholic School in Sugar Land. The award is funded by the generosity of the John W. and Alida Considine Foundation in honor of the memory of Sally Landram, an educator, former superintendent, and advocate of Catholic education in the Archdiocese.

More than 18,000 Catholic school students started back to school the week of Aug. 14 at 55 schools in the Archdiocese. †

PHOTO BY THE CATHOLIC

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo (far right) and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell'Oro, CRS, (second from left) are seen with the 2023 Sally Landram Excellence in Education Award winner Jean Bauer of St. Laurence School in Sugar Land. Also pictured are Bauer's family and Reneé Nunez, assistant superintendent of academic excellence with the Catholic Schools Office.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Friday,October 13, 2023

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HOLY ROSARY – ROSENBERG

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Deacon Jackson: Deacons ‘go where they are needed’

with the class of 2027, be assigned to a “field education parish” as part of their formation. That would be a parish where the pastor would agree to assist in the formation of the deacon candidate. The assigned deacon candidate would learn about parish ministry and assist the pastor, he said.

In his report on the state of the diaconate, Deacon Phillip Jackson, director of the Archdiocesan Permanent Diaconate, told to the crowd attending the convocation, “When the deacon candidates are not in their field education parish, they will be back at their home parish seated next to their wife.”

There are some large parishes that have up to seven or nine deacons at their home parish, while 48 other parishes in the Archdiocese may only have one active deacon. There are several other parishes that have no deacons at all to help the pastor and parishioners, Deacon Jackson reported.

“Some of the challenges we face are an uneven distribution of deacons in parishes

throughout our Archdiocese,” he said.

To take the financial pressure off the home parishes that currently sponsor diaconate candidates and pay for part of the formation, the Archdiocese will begin paying for the tuition and other materials, except for the master’s degree program.

“The Cardinal will pay for your tuition, prayer books, your albs and dalmatics. That is a big change from when you and your parish had to pay portions, and it was hard to budget,” Deacon Jackson said. “The U.S. bishops in the current edition of the National Directory for the Formation and Ministry and Life of the Permanent Diaconate in the United States are requiring all these changes.”

He added, “It’s the largest change for deacons in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston in the past 20 years.”

Deacons are ordained to the three-fold ministry of Word, Liturgy and Charity, with charity as the central core of his ministry, he said.

“As we have read in Acts Chapter 6, when deacons were first instituted to help orphans and widows in ancient times, they did not consider the option

of saying, ‘I don’t want to administer to Greek-speaking widows. I only want to minister to Hebrew-speaking widows.’ They would go where they were needed. These recent changes in diaconal formation are a natural evolution to the formation process,” Deacon Jackson said.

Eucharistic Revival

Earlier in the convocation, keynote speaker Father Richard Hinkley explained his role as chairman of the Liturgical Commission of the Archdiocese and as St. Mary’s Seminary coordinator of Spiritual Formation.

Also, a leading committee member of local participation for the Eucharistic Revival, Father Hinkley told the deacons, “There is nothing new under the sun, but the Son Himself made incarnate.”

“We need Him, not a memory of Him. He reaches us through the celebration of the Sacraments,” Father Hinkley said. “This is not a play, theater or drama… this is a real encounter between us and the Body of Christ with our merciful Father.”

Launched as an initiative of the U.S. Catholic bishops in June 2022, the National Eucharistic Revival is a three-year movement that aims to deepen Catholics’ love for Jesus through encountering Him in the Eucharist. The revival leads up to a National Eucharistic

Congress in Indianapolis in the summer of 2024.

The revival’s first year was titled “The Year of Diocesan Revival,” and efforts focused on formation for diocesan leadership and diocesan-wide events. The revival’s second year, “The Year of Parish Revival,” aspires to reach Catholics in their parishes through renewed attention to the Mass, Eucharistic devotions, and small-group faith sharing and formation.

“It’s not a book club or a sing-along. It’s an encounter with the Risen Christ,” Father Hinkley stressed. “We want to help amplify whatever the pastors and deacons are doing, whether it’s Adoration or participating in Eucharistic processions.”

Eucharistic processions — which consist of the Eucharist, typically displayed in a monstrance, followed by the faithful for any length of distance inside or outside of a church — became common forms of public devotion for Catholics at points in the Church’s history when the teaching on the Real Presence was questioned. Catholics believe the Eucharist, the bread and wine, become the actual body, blood, soul and divinity of Christ, not just a symbol. At the altar, He truly comes again in the Eucharist to be shared in communion.

Thousands of Catholics from across the U.S. plan to participate in next year’s pilgrimage to the five-day National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis starting July 17, 2024. Beforehand, national processions leading to Indianapolis will have four routes beginning in the north, south, east and west of the U.S.

The southern route, dubbed the “Juan Diego Route,” begins in Brownsville, at the U.S.-Mexico border. It will follow Texas’ eastern border through Corpus Christi, Victoria, and then arrive in Houston from May 31 to June 2, 2024. It will continue along the Gulf Coast and up through several states before concluding in Indianapolis in mid-July.

Father Hinkley said, “We want to avoid anything superficial or gimmicky. We want to focus on mystagogical catechesis (initiating people into the mystery of Christ) and the consistency of our faith.” †

— By Jo Ann Zuniga

PHOTO BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA/HERALD

Deacon Phillip Jackson, Archdiocesan director of the Permanent Diaconate, explains pending major changes to formation to about 300 attending the annual Deacon Convocation Aug. 5 at St. Mary’s Seminary.

What Christian stewardship can mean for Hispanics Catholics in the U.S.

When I heard the word “stewardship” for the first time, I did not find a Spanish translation that satisfied me or was easy to understand. Stewardship in Spanish means “administration,” so it was difficult for me to translate it into action within the Church since I was wondering: How can I be an administrator or have coresponsibility in the administration of the church?

As an immigrant from Mexico and a new parishioner at St. Martha Catholic Church in Kingwood, stewardship was a new term for me because my idea of involvement within the church was only in the form of occasionally helping out, volunteering my time in different ministries and donating money during the Sunday collection.

As a Hispanic Catholic and migrant woman in the U.S., I thought that sharing my gifts, talents and time in my church community was more than enough. This was because in my home country of Mexico, as well as in other Spanishspeaking countries, this shared responsibility is not a common practice as most parishioners take a more passive role and expect the church to take care of all their spiritual and social services needs without thinking beyond what is required to meet all those needs.

In general, the church is seen primarily as a place to worship and pray, practice the traditional Catholic faith, and a source for the fulfillment of the Sacraments that are the foundation of the Catholic faith.

It was not until I was invited to participate as a family in the “Capital Campaign” in Spanish that I realized all the responsibilities and obligations that the church has to the community, such as financial obligations, payroll, new and continued support of ministries, growth projections, short and long term needs, as well as all the benefits my family and community receive from the church.

At this moment I began to understand the need for my active participation within the community and the idea of being a “steward” of the resources, gifts and talents bestowed within my church. I also understood that “Stewardship” is a biblical term, which means that we are no longer the absolute owners of our lives; we are administrators and co-responsible

for our gifts and talents granted by God when we were created and for the benefit of our neighbor.

When we talk about “stewardship,” the family is the best example. Each family is sacred and unique before God. The family is the foundation of society, and it is our first Church, our first evangelizing seed where faith and love for the Sacraments are sown as responsible Catholics and faithful Christians. Each member has roles and responsibilities within the family nucleus, but some responsibilities are also shared within the family. I, as a woman, for example, have some unique responsibilities within my family, but at the same time, I share many responsibilities with my husband. We were both providers and stewards of gifts, talents and time for our children, while they, too, had their own roles and responsibilities that increased as they grew older.

In general, all family members must have a shared responsibility and be coresponsible for the well-being of all its members. When I thought about my domestic Church, my family, and the way

PETRUS ROOFING &

we share responsibilities and manage all the blessings bestowed on us, I understood exactly what stewardship means and my active role as a steward within my church and community.

I now believe that it is our responsibility as Catholic Christians to raise awareness and educate ourselves about the stewardship of gifts, talents and time. Even though this shared stewardship is not as common in our home countries, one as a Catholic immigrant to the U.S. must adapt and make family changes to integrate into the culture and customs of this country more quickly, as well as customs within the Church.

It is our duty as Christian Catholics to use the gifts and talents that God has given us to contribute and have coresponsibility in the hospitality of the church, supporting with prayer, formation and service in the different ministries for the benefit of our community.

The participation of Hispanics in this shared responsibility must include not just a monetary way but also participating in councils, capital campaigns and ecclesiastical committees for the positive and permanent impact of future generations of Catholic Hispanics in the U.S.

“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established” (Prov 16:3). †

Olga L. Najar is an associate director with the Office of Aging.

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Scott Whitaker, secretariat director for Stewardship and Development of the Diocese of Austin, speaks during one of the keynote presentations during the second annual Archdiocesan Parish Engagement Conference at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Houston on Aug. 19. More than 260 people attended the conference, which was hosted by the Archdiocesan Offices of Development and Communications, with keynotes and workshops focused on using the tenets of stewardship and effective communications to engage the faithful in parish communities.

Archdiocesan Pastoral Council guides mission of love in Galveston-Houston parishes

BY KERRY MCGUIRE Herald Correspondent

HOUSTON — The Church teaches that its mission rests upon the faithful who are called as Apostles to mirror Christ’s teachings found in the Gospels, spreading His message of love and redemption to all.

The Archdiocesan Pastoral Council (APC) embraces this mission to ensure the 146 Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese remain committed to spreading Christ’s love to meet the evolving and unique needs of the local Church.

In an advisory role directly supporting Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, APC members consist of clergy, religious and lay men and women from various parishes in the 10 counties within the Galveston-Houston area. They offer diverse perspectives, address changing needs, and create and facilitate initiatives to strengthen the local Catholic community’s faith, engagement and unity.

Sally Davila from St. Mary of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in Texas City, who is in her second threeyear term as a lay representative on the APC, also serves as a parish delegate. She assists the APC as a parish delegate coordinator. She has gained invaluable knowledge and new ideas to share with her pastor and parish council.

“To be in the presence of the Cardinal, to hear his messages, receive his blessings and attend Masses in which he serves, also have been very beneficial to me as a layperson,” said Davila. “It is a joy to meet new friends, such as priests, deacons, sisters and administrative personnel from other parishes, and to learn from them.”

Donna Pierson, vice chair of the APC since September 2022 and member of St.

Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, sees the progress being made toward bringing forth Christ’s missionary work as His Church.

“The benefits gained from being a member of the APC make me more aware that our ministry is on the right path because we realize that all of God’s children are after the same thing,” said Pierson. “We want to know that God sees us, that He hears us, that we are important, and that we are all included in His love for us.”

According to Jim Barrette, secretariat director of Pastoral and Educational Ministries who has led the APC since it began under Cardinal DiNardo, the council developed an Archdiocesan Pastoral Plan two years ago that aligns the parish mission with three central objectives: valuing individuals, embracing diversity and strengthening family connections. He said the council is currently utilizing the synodal listening process to assist parish councils with annual pastoral planning efforts to address the specific needs and interests of their community.

archgh.org/dsf

“Donations by each and every individual have an impact that is magnified in the communal effort of the DSF annual appeal,” said Barrette. “In other words, a donation of any amount, when combined with the other members of the Archdiocese, allows for actions that could not be attained by one person or even one parish alone.”

Davila agrees giving to the DSF is one way for the faithful to do their part in growing the Catholic faith, both personally and collectively, as the Body of Christ.

DIOCESAN SERVICES FUND

“I will continue being a servant of God, and these are ways I can do that — by being involved in the APC and other ministries, by giving to the DSF, and always answering God’s call,” said Davila. “Giving to the DSF can help lead an additional person into eternal salvation — the more you give, the more you receive.”

Barrette said through the synodal listening process in 2022, key points emerged that address critical needs found in the local Church from various groups, including youth and young adults. He said the APC is currently addressing many of these issues, including a renewed emphasis on formation and spiritual growth opportunities for young people, fostering parental formation as primary catechists for children across age groups, and sustained engagement with young individuals within the synodal process in the future.

Barrette said while the specifics of these updates to the Archdiocesan Pastoral Plan remain pending approval by the Cardinal, the council aims to present the final document to him in September, with details to be announced to the public in the fall.

As one of 64 ministries supported by the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF), Barrette said the faithful come together to support the efforts of the APC, which ensures the Cardinal remains wellinformed about the growing dynamic, diverse needs within the Archdiocese that ultimately brings about much-needed discussion and change.

Pierson said being a part of the APC has shown her both similarities and differences between parishes and how they are continually spiritually evolving. She also has a new appreciation for giving annually to the DSF, which supports many ministries that would have to go without if additional funding is not available.

“As our communities are changing, our parish needs are changing. Therefore, the logistics of the DSF are stretched, and funds need to be replenished,” said Pierson. “As the chair of the Pastoral Council at my parish, I better understand now why the needs of parishes may not be immediately resolved or responded to and why we, as parishioners, are asked each to give and continue giving. Giving to the annual DFS appeal will enable these important ministries to continue to prosper and grow.”

To learn more about the APC, visit www.archgh.org/apc. To donate to the DSF online, visit 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. †

The 2023 Diocesan Services Fund theme is “God is the Strength of My Heart.” 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.

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Parishioners at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church in Houston attend an Easter Vigil Mass with lit candles during a recent Holy Week. The Archdiocesan Pastoral Council embraces this mission to ensure the 146 Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese remain committed to spreading Christ’s love to meet the evolving and unique needs of the local Church.

‘YOUR NAMES are WRITTEN in HEAVEN’

– Bishop Dell’Oro to WYD pilgrims

There on the Iberian Peninsula, surrounded by Portugal’s ancient churches and buildings, they trekked the city’s Seven Hills, taking trains, trams and walking miles across Lisbon’s iconic cobblestone pathways in search of prayer, faith, Pastéis de Nata — the popular egg custard tart dessert — and possibly a glimpse of Pope Francis.

Led by Angela Pometto, director of the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry for the Archdiocese (YACM), and Thalia Romero, YACM associate director, the Archdiocesan group was one of more than 1,300 groups comprised of more than 28,600 pilgrims from across the U.S. that attended WYD in Lisbon.

The U.S. was among the five largest delegations participating in WYD, which took place Aug. 1 to 6 in Lisbon, Portugal.

1.5 MILLION PILGRIMS ATTENDING

They joined the more than 354,000 pilgrims registered for the event, with the most representatives from Spain (77,224 young people), Italy (almost 60,000) and Portugal (43,742). France brought 42,482 pilgrims, followed by the U.S. The theme of WYD was “Mary arose and went with haste.” Youth from all countries of the world except from Maldives arrived in Lisbon for the event.

By the end of the week, WYD and government organizers estimated that more than 1.5 million attend the international celebration.

A variety of groups comprised the delegation from Galveston-Houston, some from parishes, young adult groups, mission organizations and colleges like the University of St. Thomas and Texas A&M University at Galveston. The Archdiocesan group ventured to Madrid, Ávila and Toledo in Spain before making a side trip to Fatima, then to Lisbon for WYD.

‘YOU SEE JESUS WITH EVERY PERSON YOU MEET’

In the mornings before the major WYD events, delegations attended a variety of “Rise Up” catechesis sessions and other events at parishes, parks and civic centers. These events were hosted in some 30 languages all around Lisbon and in neighboring communities.

On the evening of Aug. 2, U.S. pilgrims gathered in Quintas das Conchas e dos Lilases Park along with U.S. bishops who greeted them, lining up on the stage and introducing their dioceses. Sixty bishops came to Lisbon from the U.S., and more than 35 hosted catechesis sessions during WYD, including Galveston-Houston Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS.

Hosted by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops with Bishop Robert Barron of the Diocese of WinonaRochester, a group of Texas pilgrims attended the event under Lisbon’s leafy trees, including Silvia Torres, a pilgrim from the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston.

“WYD in Lisbon is beautiful. It is welcoming. You feel God’s presence in every place that you go to, every corner that you turn into, every person that you say hello to, they just greet you, and you see Jesus with every person that you meet,” she told OSV News.

Her first WYD was in Krakow,

Poland, in 2016, and now in Lisbon, she said she was touched by her visit to the sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, where she managed to do a pilgrimage on her knees.

“I was able to do it from the beginning up until her chapel. And I did dedicate that for my mom and for her health. And it was a beautiful experience,” Torres said. “I gave (Mary) all of my worries, all my stress, all my insecurities about the future. And I leave with peace, knowing that she is always looking out for us, that she is always with us. I am blessed enough to have my mom here on earth and my mom in heaven.”

SHOWING THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

Also from Texas, Bishop Edward J. Burns of Dallas led the Eucharistic procession at the end of the event. Amid the National Eucharistic Revival taking place in the U.S. and ahead of the upcoming National Eucharistic Congress, bishops are encouraging youth in Lisbon to turn to Christ and to bring their problems and questions to him, especially in Eucharistic adoration.

Edgar Mondragón, a young teacher from Houston, said that what he would like to bring home from WYD in Lisbon “is to be able to just pour out what I receive here onto the people I work with, my friends, my family, my students.”

“It’s in giving that you receive. So just be able to give them the love, show them the light of Christ,” he said.

Bishop Dell’Oro said at least 12 bishops from Texas attended WYD, hearing confessions, hosting catechesis sessions and celebrating Masses.

The day after more than 800,000 welcomed Pope Francis to Lisbon, Bishop

Dell’Oro and Pometto hosted a special gathering for Houston pilgrims in St. Catherine Parish, a 16th-century Baroque church.

Under the sanctuary’s soaring gilted ceilings, surrounded by sacred Baroque art, pilgrims from all around the Texas Gulf Coast gathered for prayer and special time with their auxiliary bishop, including testimony sharing and a brief question and answer session with Bishop Dell’Oro.

YOUR NAMES ARE WRITTEN IN HEAVEN

He reflected on the story of the return of the 72 disciples sent by Jesus in Luke’s Gospel: “The seventy-two returned rejoicing, and said, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name.” Jesus said, “I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky. Behold, I

have given you the power ‘to tread upon serpents’ and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Lk 10:17-20)

Bishop Dell’Oro encouraged the attendees, filling dozens of pews, to pause and reflect on their experiences in that moment, especially as the events got busier and more distracting as it continued.

“There is always something — indeed, it’s more than something greater to come in our relationship with Jesus,” Bishop Dell’Oro said. “All the way up, God is looking at those names. So, as Pope Francis said last night, may Jesus keep calling us by name. That’s

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD AND CNS

At top, Galveston-Houston Auxiluary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, smiles as he talks to Houston pilgrims Emma Straten and Colleen Anater during a special gathering for Houston pilgrims at St. Caterina Church in Lisbon during World Youth Day Aug. 4. Above, a prelate uses incense before the Blessed Sacrament as Pope Francis and an estimated 1.5 million young people participate in eucharistic adoration during the World Youth Day prayer vigil at Tejo Park in Lisbon, Portugal, Aug. 5.

What did Pope Francis say? World Youth Day Lisbon in six quotes fit for everyone

LISBON — Across more than a dozen public messages at a variety of events in Portugal’s capital city of Lisbon and Fatima, Pope Francis drew close to the more than 1.5 million youth attending World Youth Day in a series of speeches.

Here’s are excerpts from his addresses in Portugal:

“ For that is how life is: we fail and we start over, we grow weary and we find renewed joy. We put our hands into the hands of Jesus. Today He stands at the shore of our lives to revive our hope.”

– Vespers at Jerónimos Monastery, Aug. 2

“We are precious in God’s eyes, despite the fact that sometimes our own eyes are dimmed by negativity and dazzled by distractions. Let these be days when my name, and your names, spoken with friendship by brothers and sisters of many languages and nations, resonate as unique news in history, for God’s heart beats uniquely for you.”

WYD Welcoming Ceremony, Aug. 3

“Jesus walks along with us, but He hopes for something: He desires our company, He hopes that we will fix our eyes on Him. Jesus walks along expressing His hope through love and tenderness, so as to give us consolation, to dry the tears of our lives.”

Way of the Cross meditation, Aug. 4

“Dear friends, Jesus loves us so such that He identifies with us, and He asks us to work together with Him. Mary shows us what Jesus is asking of us: that we journey through life and share in His work. Just as she points us to Jesus, she points out to Jesus each of our hearts.”

– Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Fatima, Aug. 5

“Do not be afraid! It is no longer I, but Jesus Himself who is now looking at you. He knows each of your hearts, each of your lives; He knows your joys, your sorrows, your successes and failures. He knows your heart. Today, He says to you, here in Lisbon, at this World Youth Day: ‘Have no fear, take heart, do not be afraid!’”

– Homily for Mass at Campo da Graça, Aug. 6

– Compiled by James Ramos/Herald

Echoing St. John Paul II, Pope tells youth: ‘Be not afraid!’

In Lisbon, Pope Francis recalls WYD founder’s message of courage

LISBON — Throughout World Youth Day (WYD), Pope Francis kept a close connection with St. John Paul II.

Throughout his speeches in Lisbon, Pope Francis repeatedly echoed several of the phrases that the WYD founder and Polish pontiff said throughout the eight WYDs that he attended during his papacy.

Known for speaking off-script, Pope Francis often looked up away from his notes and repeated several phrases.

“In the Church, no one is left out or left over. There is room for everyone. Everyone, everyone, everyone! The Lord does not point a finger, but opens His arms,” he told the mass of people in Lisbon’s Eduardo VII Park Aug. 3 for the WYD welcome ceremony. Pointing into the crowd, he said: “You, you, you, over there, all of us, me, we were all called by our names. Don’t be afraid, take heart.”

The “illusions” of the virtual world “attract us and promise happiness” but later show themselves to be “vain, superfluous things, substitutes that leave us empty inside,” the pope said. “Jesus is not like that; He believes in you, in each one of you and us, because to Him, each one of us is important, and that is Jesus.”

The next day, during a meditation on the Stations of the Cross, also held at Eduardo VII Park, Pope Francis said that when feelings of suffering, anxiety and loneliness bring young people to tears, Jesus cries with them and walks alongside them on the way of the cross.

“All of us in life have cried, and we cry still. And there is Jesus with us. He cries with us because He accompanies us in the darkness that leads us to tears,” he continued.

After many of the 1.5 million young people gathered in Lisbon’s Tejo Park waited for hours in near 100-degree weather to participate in the WYD vigil — a key WYD event where pilgrims walk for miles to an outdoor camp, dubbed “Campo da

LISBON, from page 9

the truth in our life.”

The day before, an hour’s drive away from Lisbon in the hilltop town of Palmela, Bishop Dell’Oro also hosted a Spanish catechesis session in a large outdoor plaza of St. John. Under bright, sunny skies, he was joined by Texas pilgrims, as well as at least a hundred other Spanish-speaking pilgrims and priests from around the world.

Several priests from the Archdiocese also went to Lisbon, including Father Ricardo Arriola, parochial vicar at St. Bartholomew in Katy; Father David Hust, parochial vicar at St. Anthony of Padua in The Woodlands; Father Chris Meyer, parochial vicar at St. Faustina Parish in Fulshear; Father Miguel Perez, CC, parochial vicar at Queen of Peace in Houston; and Father Rodrigo Ulloa, MM, Maryknoll vocations director.

They accompanied several pilgrim groups along the journey in WYD,

Graça,” or Camp Thanksgiving, to spend the evening with Pope Francis in a solemn time of Eucharistic adoration and hear a special address — with Pope Francis Aug. 5, he again shared a message often repeated by his Polish predecessor: “Do not be afraid!”

“Carry on; if you fall, get back up,” Pope Francis said. “Nothing is free in life; everything has to be paid for. Only one thing is free: the love of Jesus! So, with this free gift that we have — the love of Jesus — and with the desire to carry on the journey, let us walk in hope, let us be mindful of our roots, and move forward without fear. Do not be afraid.”

Long after the pope left, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims carried that message into the night, dancing and singing.

Some young people kicked around a soccer ball, while others eagerly careened between groups to meet other pilgrims and

exchange pins, prayer cards, rosaries and medals. Flags were a popular trading item, often signed and passed along to another pilgrim, then another. All around, priests wore purple stoles, hearing dozens upon dozens of confessions.

The next morning, after the pilgrims awoke to thumping electronic music to rouse them from their slumber under a starry Portuguese sky, during his Aug. 6 homily at the outdoor Mass, Pope Francis reflected on the Transfiguration of Christ, repeating again the words of St. John Paul II and of Jesus Himself to His disciples: “Do not be afraid.”

He emphasized three points to the youth: “to shine, so be radiant; then, listen in order not to take the wrong path; finally, the third word: to be unafraid.”

At the end of the Mass, the pope announced that the next edition of the international event will be in the distant city of Seoul, South Korea, in 2027. † –

By James Ramos/Herald

celebrating Masses and hearing confessions.They joined pilgrims all around Lisbon, attending the City of Joy, a large outdoor festival at the riverside Garden of Vasco de Gama full of vocation booths, food, live music and a park dedicated to hearing thousands of confessions in dozens of languages.

With Pometto, Bishop Dell’Oro is set to host a follow-up meeting with Galveston-Houston pilgrims on Sept. 16 in Houston for a day of reflection, prayer and fellowship.

Since 1985, the international WYD has been held every two to three years in a different country and is intended to draw together youth and young adults, from every continent for a worldwide pilgrimage and festival of faith along with the Pope. The Lisbon WYD was originally set for the summer of 2022; however, due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Pope Francis extended the preparatory period to August 2023. †

– OSV News contributed to these reports.

1 3 6

[1] Pope Francis speaks to a group at Eduardo VII Park in Lisbon, Portugal, Apparitions at the Shrine of Our Lady CRS, meets with pilgrims from Houston portion of the 311 pilgrims from the Archdiocese Dell’Oro during a gathering for Houston of a World Youth Day pilgrim in Vasco the Sacrament to three pilgrims: young A close up of the pope’s rosary in Fatima. physical challenges in Fátima Aug. 5. Way of the Cross at Eduardo VII Park

Pope Francis: World Youth LISBON — World Youth Day is Korea. Pope Francis announced the closing Mass of World Youth “The next World Youth Day will to cheers from the estimated 1,000 country’s flag.

Pope Francis prefaced his announcement to participate in youth celebrations than 30 million pilgrims to flock

CNS PHOTO Pope Francis laughs during his speech to representatives of local charities at the parish center in Serafina, a neighborhood in Lisbon, Portugal on Aug. 4.

“Let us walk in hope, let us be mindful of our roots, and move forwards, without fear. Do not be afraid.”

PHOTOS BY OSV NEWS/CNS AND JAMES RAMOS/HERALD group of young people during the World Youth Day welcome ceremony Portugal, Aug. 3. [2] Pope Francis prays the rosary in the Chapel of the of Fátima in Fátima, Portugal, Aug. 5. [3] Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, Houston after his Spanish catechesis session in Palmela on Aug. 3. [4] A Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston post for a photo with Auxiliary Bishop Houston pilgrims on Aug. 4 in Lisbon. [5] Pope Francis hears the confession Vasco da Gama Garden in Lisbon, Portugal, Aug. 4. The pope administered young men from Italy and Spain, and a young woman from Guatemala. [6] Fatima. [7] Pope Francis greets children with a variety of illnesses and 5. [8] Pope Francis waves from his Popemobile a he arrives to lead the Park in Lisbon Aug. 4.

Youth Day 2027 will be in Seoul, South Korea

returning to Asia in 2027 and will be hosted in Seoul, South the location Aug. 6 to some 1.5 million pilgrims who attended Day 2023 in Lisbon. will take place in Asia. It will be in South Korea, in Seoul,” he said 1,000 South Korean pilgrims, many of them proudly waving their announcement by urging young people to travel to Rome in 2025 celebrations during the jubilee year, when Vatican officials expect more to the Eternal City. †

To read the pope’s speeches, see more photos and videos online visit WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/WYD23 or scan the QR code.

CNS PHOTOS

Liz Costa’s parents get emotional after Pope Francis caressed the child’s cheek at the parish center in Serafina, a neighborhood in Lisbon, Portugal, Aug. 4, during World Youth Day.

Local Catholic tapped to lead Serra International as president

SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

HOUSTON — Kurt Metyko, a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Houston, traveled to Thailand in June, where he was installed as president of Serra International at the 80th Serra International Convention to increase vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Metyko, whose father Frank Metyko became Serra International president in 1977, said, “I was exposed to Serra by my father, who became a Serran about 1945. When I was in high school, he would take me to some of the weekly Serran Friday lunches at the Rice Hotel. When I came home from the Army in 1968, I joined Serra.”

Other local fellow Serrans who accompanied Metyko to Thailand included Ed and Candice Tyrrell, the latter who serves on the Serra U.S. Council along with Margo Geddie and Robert Anderson.

Serra International is a Catholic lay organization founded in 1935 in Seattle, Washington. It chose Father Junipero Serra, a frontier missionary and saint, as their patron. It was then incorporated by the Vatican Dicastery for the Clergy in 1951.

There are now 500 Serra Clubs in 30 countries with more than 12,000 members worldwide. The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston has seven Serra Clubs, with Metyko a member of the oldest of these, the Serra Club of Houston, which was chartered in 1942.

“The president meets by Zoom weekly with the executive director in the Chicago office and runs the board of trustees meetings and the executive committee meetings,” Metyko said. “My schedule already includes trips to Canada, to Mexico and to Brazil. I will also be traveling to Germany and France to discuss expansion in those countries.”

He reiterated Serra’s objectives and purposes are to foster and promote vocations to the priesthood in the

Catholic Church and to support priests in their sacred ministry. Second, Serra members encourage and affirm vocations to consecrated religious life in the Catholic Church and assist its members to recognize and respond in their own lives to God’s call to holiness in Jesus Christ and through the Holy Spirit.

Metyko, a civil engineer by trade, has held Serra club, district and U.S. council positions, culminating with the 2011 presidency of Serra’s National Council for the U.S. He also served as a member and past chairman of the St. Mary’s Seminary Advisory Board and has served since 1997 on the Board of the Shalom Center in Splendora, a counseling center for Catholic priests and religious.

In his local parish, he serves on the vocations committee for Holy Rosary Church.

Also attending the Serra International Convention this summer, Francis Cardinal Kovithavanij, Archbishop of Bangkok, and Charles Cardinal Bo of Myanmar, president of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conference.

Conference discussions concerned conversion from Buddhism to Catholicism, vocations through media, youth in Serra and the role of parents in their child’s vocation choices. †

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SERRA CLUB

Kurt Metyko smiles during a recent Serra International event.

EDUCATION

STUDENTS GIVEN SCHOLARSHIPS BY ST. MARK

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. MARK THE EVANGELIST CATHOLIC CHURCH

St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church handed out scholarships to four students on Aug. 20. Pictured from left to right, the recipients were Estoria Rojas of Houston Community College, Sydnee Shepherd from Ridge Point High School in Missouri City, Sergio Tovar from Hightower High School in Missouri City, and Tiara Perez from Kempner High School in Sugar Land. The scholarships, sponsored by Berlin Pickney and Concerned Parishioners of St. Mark, were presented by Father Oscar Castro, pastor at St. Mark the Evangelist.

St. Peter Catholic construction continues

HOUSTON — Construction and renovations continue at the St. Peter Catholic-A Career and Technical High School campus. On Aug. 30, a group of priests from the Southeast Deanery received a private tour of the construction site, to see all the details of the education building in person.

St. Peter Catholic High School will mirror the workplace and post-secondary education environments, equipping students to enter the workforce through opportunities to earn professional certifications. Students will have hands-on experience with industry-standard software and technology to be professionally competent in their chosen career paths and gain skills in communication, time management, problem-solving and teamwork.

St. Peter is located on a 10-acre campus off Old Spanish Trail near the 610 Freeway and the Texas Medical Center. The two-story brick building is undergoing multi-million-dollar renovations. The campus renovations include the elevators, ramps, new windows in the gymnasium and front entry steps.

Students began school on Aug. 14 and attend classes at nearby St. Dominic Chancery until the school renovations are complete, scheduled for January 2024. †

KC COUNCIL #8096 AWARD SCHOLARSHIPS

HOUSTON — Sophia Hunt and Cody O’Brien were awarded academic scholarships at a banquet held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. The scholarships were awarded by the parish’s Knights of Columbus Council #8096.

Hunt, a graduate of Incarnate Word Academy, was a member of the National Honor Society, and played varsity volleyball. Hunt was an altar server for several years and she earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. She is attending Texas A&M Corpus Christi to study criminal justice.

O’Brien, a graduate of St. John XXIII College Preparatory, played varsity golf, and will be playing at the collegiate level. O’Brien was an altar server for many years and held a leadership position as a Knight Commander. He is attending Texas Lutheran University to study business administration. †

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARC MARTINEZ/ST. PETER CATHOLIC

YOUTH

Eucharistic Revival: What the kids of today urgently need

Editor’s Note: This part one of a two-part series. Part two will be in the Sept. 26 issue.

I am honored to be one of the Eucharistic preachers of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). I had the honor to preach a Eucharistic Revival Preaching series in the Archdiocese of San Francisco. I have realized more and more that the Eucharist is especially what our world needs. It is so relevant and can help young people discover love, connection, unity and their identity. Jesus’ love is real and present. He is not distant. Jesus brings unity to our divided world.

And the Eucharist is the source of mercy in a world that lacks mercy. For us to bring this revival to the young, we adults have to see how blessed we are by this Sacrament to where we can’t imagine our lives without Him with us. Spending time with the Eucharist outside of Mass is an oasis in the desert of this life. Mass brings us the unity and peace we long for, and the Eucharist

by FATHER VICTOR PEREZ

feeds us and strengthens us on our path to Heaven. The revival is something we have to allow God to do. So, before we try to bring this revival to the young, we need to humble ourselves, take some quiet time and adore Him.

Let’s appreciate how vulnerable Jesus comes to us in the Eucharist. How humble and intimate! Our world craves this.

As we know, more people are online than ever. More kids are content to stay in their rooms online and sometimes don’t even want to learn how to drive. People can easily be isolated, substituting true intimacy for fakeness, true vulnerability in person with a friend oversharing on the internet or with complete strangers. People long to be known and understood. The Eucharist is what we need. Jesus reaches us; He comes to us on our level as a dear friend.

Let’s share this gift with our teenagers.

In the Eucharist, we receive the love of God for us. Don’t we hunger for that love? We have to receive with deep faith. Faith in the personal love for Jesus. In a world of iPhones and Christianity, all about the personal relationship with God, we do receive Jesus personally. Can anything be more accommodating to our individuality than Holy Communion? Jesus becomes a part of us. He comes into our life. He wanted to give this gift to each person so they could receive it by being present at every Mass to see and experience how much they are loved. Is our world not starved for love? How many people live in darkness and in depression or anxiety trying to earn love?

Jesus is present in a world where there is sometimes a lack of parental presence, isolation, family members distant from each other. Jesus promises to never leave you. You can walk into any

Meet your local campus ministers

Father Karl Davis, O.M.I., Chaplain and Director Rice University Catholic Student Center and St. Mary’s Chapel 713-526-3809 | kdavis@archgh.org www.ricecatholics.wordpress.com

Mimi Tran, Campus Minister Rice University

St. Mary’s Chapel and Catholic Student Center 713-526-3809 | mtran@archgh.org www.ricecatholics.wordpress.com

Mary Impelman, Campus Minister Rice University

St. Mary’s Chapel and Catholic Student Center 713-526-3809 | mimpelman@archgh.org www.ricecatholics.wordpress.com

Doris M. Barrow, III, Campus Minister Texas Southern University Catholic Newman Center 713-747-7595 | dbarrow@archgh.org tsunewmancenter.com

Carl Erickson, Campus Minister Galveston Newman Center: Serving UTMB/Galveston College, Texas A&M University, and College of the Mainland 409-740-3797 | cerickson@archgh.org archgh.org/galvestonnewman

Simon Powell, Campus Minister Sam Houston State University Catholic Student Center 936-291-2620 | spowell@archgh.org shsu-catholic.org

Father Quang Nguyen, SCJ, Chaplain and Director

University of Houston Catholic Newman Center 713-748-2529 | qnguyen@archgh.org uhcatholic.org

Salisha Miller, Campus Minister University of Houston Catholic Newman Center 713-748-2529 | smiller@archgh.org uhcatholic.org

Father Eduardo Rivera, C.S.B., Chaplain University of St. Thomas 713-525-3589 | riverae1@stthom.edu stthom.edu/campusministry

Pat Gunning, Campus Minister University of St. Thomas 713-525-3589 | gunninp@stthom.edu stthom.edu/campusministry

Abi Bielstein, Campus Ministry Coordinator

University of St. Thomas 713-525-3513 | abielst@stthom.edu stthom.edu/campusministry

Catholic Church and adore Him and just be in His presence.

Also, it is significant that we receive Jesus’ body into our body. Young people and many people today can reject their body if it isn’t like the person they see on Instagram. Jesus gives His body to us and teaches us that we are to make a gift of ourselves, body and soul to Him and to love others in and through the body. The Eucharist is part of how Jesus redeems our bodies, which are a temple of the Holy Spirit, and we become the Body of Christ.

“Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day” (Jn 6:53). †

Father Victor Perez is pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church and St. Stephen Catholic Church in Houston. He is also one of two Eucharistic Preachers from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.

The Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry seeks to provide a home for young adults within the Catholic Church and accompany young adults in their journey with Christ through their late teens, 20s and 30s.

The Office brings a Catholic presence to the colleges and universities located within the Archdiocese.

Through empowering Catholic Newman Centers, we seek to create environments where Catholic students can find community, encounter Christ in prayer and be formed as disciples of Jesus.

We also seek to evangelize the entire academic community and invite others into the joy, fulfillment and truth of living the Gospel.

For more information, contact the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry at 713-741-8778, yacm@archgh.org, or visit to www.archgh.org/yacm

YOUNG ADULT & CAMPUS MINISTRY OFFICE STAFF

Angela Pometto, Director

Thalia Romero, Associate Director

Juan Tinajero, Administrative Assistant

COLUMNISTS

‘Color’ Masses signify variety of ways to share faith, service

As we look forward to the upcoming months, our Archdiocese is preparing to celebrate a series of “Color Masses” that hold deep significance within the Roman Catholic tradition.

These Masses not only honor specific vocations and professions but also serve as reminders of our shared commitment to faith, service and community. In this column, I would like to shed light on the meaning and importance of these Color Masses that will grace our congregations in the coming months.

BLUE MASS

On Sunday, Sept. 24, at 10 a.m., St. Jerome Catholic Church will host the annual Blue Mass, an occasion dedicated to those serving in public safety, most specifically police officers.

The Blue Mass name originates from the traditional uniform color associated with law enforcement, and the date is usually close to the Feast of St. Michael, who is the patron of police. This Mass allows us to offer gratitude and prayers for those who selflessly serve our communities, often placing their lives at

by ADAM BRILL

risk to ensure our safety. Their dedication to duty and willingness to sacrifice embody the virtues of courage, compassion and selflessness that align with the teachings of Christ.

FIREFIGHTERS MASS

Scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 15, at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart at 11 a.m., the annual Firefighters Mass pays tribute to the brave men and women who battle flames and danger to protect our lives and properties.

This Mass is an expression of our appreciation and prayers for their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment. As we pray for their safety and well-being, we also remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The ringing of bells and the presentation of names during the Mass serve as a reminder of their

courage and sacrifice.

WHITE MASS

Set for Monday, Oct. 16, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church at 6 p.m., the annual White Mass celebrates those who dedicate their lives to the healing profession of medicine. This Mass gathers healthcare professionals and all who support the work to invoke God’s blessings upon their healing work. The white garments worn by attendees come originally from the professional coats but also have become a reminder of compassion and hope. In a world often marked by illness and suffering, the White Mass is a reminder that medical professionals continue Christ’s healing ministry on Earth.

RED MASS

The annual Red Mass, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 8, at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart at 6:15 p.m., carries with it a rich historical significance. Dating back to the 13th century, this Mass originally marked the opening of

the court term in European countries. Today, it continues to symbolize the alignment of justice and faith, uniting judges, legal professionals and government officials in prayerful reflection. The celebrant’s red vestments represent the Holy Spirit’s wisdom, understanding, counsel and fortitude, qualities essential for those who dispense justice. The Red Mass serves as a solemn invocation for divine guidance throughout the legal year.

In these Masses, we witness the convergence of faith and life’s various callings. Through our prayers and participation, we honor those who serve our communities. Let us come together in the spirit of unity and gratitude as we celebrate these Masses and the individuals they honor.

May these gatherings strengthen our faith, inspire our actions and deepen our connection with both God and one another. †

Adam Brill is the director of the Office of Worship.

Labor important part of Catholic social teachings

Last week, we celebrated a holiday here in the U.S. called “Labor Day.” For many of us, despite the ongoing heat we experience here in Houston, this holiday marks, if not the end of summer, at least a return to more regular school and work schedules.

The origins of this holiday lie in the history of labor movements in the U.S. and their efforts to secure better and more humane working conditions in a newly industrialized society. Despite these more secular origins, the goals of this holiday resonate very highly with the Catholic Church’s social teachings.

From the Catholic perspective, human beings occupy a unique place in the order of creation in that we are exclusively called to share in God’s creative capacity and participate in the ongoing unfolding of creation.

Work is, therefore, both a great gift and a profound responsibility (cf. CCC, no. 2472). Work is an essential part of human life and plays a significant role in our overall well-being and dignity. It is not just a means to earn a living but also a way to express ourselves, feel useful, learn important life lessons, and, indeed, participate in our own redemption and sanctification. The Catholic Church recognizes the importance of work and

by BRIAN GARCIALUENSE

its impact on individuals and society as a whole.

When people work, they not only produce goods and services but also undergo personal growth and development. Work has the power to change both the world and the worker, and it can either enhance or suppress a person’s dignity.

Therefore, it is crucial to foster dignified work that respects the capacities and qualities of human beings. The Catechism, referencing the teachings of St. John Paul II, puts it this way, “Work is for man, not man for work (CCC, no. 2428).”

The Church teaches that work should be designed in a way that allows workers to use their intelligence and freedom, promotes social relationships and collaboration, and does not harm their physical, spiritual, or emotional well-being. Good work should satisfy genuine human needs, enable workers to provide for themselves and their families, and contribute to the flourishing of others in society.

In terms of providing for themselves, the

Catechism defines a just wage as one that will “guarantee man the opportunity to provide a dignified livelihood for himself and his family on the material, social, cultural and spiritual level (no. 2434).”

Pope Francis, in his encyclical Fratelli Tutti, emphasizes the importance of work in promoting the good of the people and providing individuals with the opportunity to nurture their talents and contribute to society (no. 162). He states that there is no poverty worse than the one that takes away work and the dignity it brings. Work is not just a means to earn a living but also a source of personal growth, healthy relationships, self-expression, and the exchange of gifts. It gives individuals a sense of shared responsibility for the development of the world and their life as a people.

In a Church that has a feast day in honor of St. Joseph the Worker (May 1), work is not just a means to survive but an essential component of human life and a path to holiness. It allows individuals to express themselves, feel useful, and learn important life lessons. It is through work that individuals find dignity and a sense of shared responsibility for the development of the world. The Church recognizes the challenges faced by workers and calls on leaders to prioritize creating opportunities for all to earn a just wage and live a dignified life.

St. Joseph the Worker, pray for us. †

Brian Garcia-Luense is an associate director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.

Jesus is the answer to human longing, pope says at Mass in Mongolia

ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia (CNS)

— Like the land struck by a “zud,” the human heart has a thirst and longing that can be alleviated only by the God of love, Pope Francis told Mongolians gathered for Mass in Ulaanbaatar’s Steppe Arena. Countless generations of Mongolians have feared the “zud,” an extreme weather event of drought or impenetrable ice that decimates herds and flocks.

In his homily at the Mass on Sept. 3, Pope Francis emphasized the day’s response to Psalm 63: “My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.”

“We are that dry land thirsting for fresh water, water that can slake our deepest thirst,” the pope said. “Our hearts long to discover the secret of true joy, a joy that, even in the midst of existential aridity, can accompany and sustain us.”

Every person thirsts for happiness, for direction and for meaning in life, he said. But “more than anything, we thirst for love, for only love can truly satisfy us, bring us fulfillment, inspire inner assurance and allow us to savor the beauty of life.”

“Dear brothers and sisters,” he told the estimated 2,000 people in the arena, “the Christian faith is the answer to this thirst; it takes it seriously without dismissing it or trying to replace it with tranquilizers or surrogates.”

The Mongolian Catholic community numbers only about 1,450, but hundreds of Catholics from throughout Central Asia traveled to Ulaanbaatar for the papal Mass. While the Chinese government refused to allow any Catholic bishop or priest from the mainland to attend, small groups of lay Catholics managed to cross the border to see the pope, and official church delegations arrived from Hong Kong and Macau.

Riding around the perimeter of the

small arena in a golf cart, Pope Francis stopped and waved at a group that held up a large Chinese flag.

Bishops and pilgrims also came from South Korea and Vietnam, including a dance troupe that performed for the crowd that gathered hours before Mass. When the pope arrived, the Vietnamese dancers rushed to the crowd barriers, waving their conical straw nón lá hats.

Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo Iustyna Gurevich and Elena Sachenko said they spent two days driving to Ulaanbaatar with 20 pilgrims from Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk and Khabarovsk, Russia, for the papal Mass.

Among the prayers of the faithful at the Mass were one read in Russian and

another in Chinese.

The Russian-language prayer was for government leaders that “the wisdom that comes from heaven would teach them to care for the common good, overcoming conflicts and working for peace among peoples and safeguarding our common home.”

The prayer in Chinese was for those who are suffering that God, “who abandons nothing that he created, would console them in their time of trial and make us ready to give fraternal service.”

Kim Viet Ngo, a Vietnamese-American Catholic from Washington, D.C., said the Mass was an opportunity to see and pray with Pope Francis close up — closer than she would ever get to him at the Vatican.

“As a Catholic, I believe the pope can change the world, Vietnam included,” she said. For decades, the Vatican and Vietnam’s communist government have been making slow progress in normalizing relations and coming to agreements on the appointment of bishops.

While small makeshift confessionals were set up outside the arena where missionaries offered the sacrament before the liturgy began, not everyone who came to the Mass was Catholic. In fact, a group of Buddhist monks dressed in saffron robes were seated on the arena floor in a place of honor.

Pope Francis led the Mass prayers in English, something he does rarely.

But he preached in Italian, telling the small crowd that “the heart of the Christian faith” is that “God, who is love, has drawn near to you in his son Jesus, and wants to share in your life, your work, your dreams and your thirst for happiness.”

Pope Francis told the small Catholic flock of Mongolia not to be fooled into thinking that even when one feels like a “dry and weary land where there is no water,” as the Psalm says, it is still true that “God cares for us and offers us clear, refreshing water, the living water of the Spirit, springing up within us to renew us and free us from the risk of drought. Jesus gives us that water.” †

Pope Francis grasps the hands of retired Cardinal John Tong Hon of Hong Kong, left, and Cardinaldesignate Stephen Chow Sau-yan of Hong Kong, right, as he introduces them to people attending his Mass in the Steppe Arena in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, Sept. 3.

NATION U.S. archbishop lays out ‘urgent’ need for ‘radical solidarity’ with working families

WASHINGTON (OSV News) — The chairman of the U.S. bishops’ domestic policy committee said the nation has “urgent work” to do to really show a “radical solidarity with working families” and provide ongoing support for the wellbeing of all families.

“There are signs of improvement and concern regarding the economy,” Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Archeparchy of Philadelphia said in an Aug. 30 statement the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) issued.

Despite positive economic indicators of low unemployment, slowing inflation and new jobs being added, “more families feel like they are worse off today than the year before,” he said, citing a Federal Reserve report.

“There is still urgent work needed to exercise radical solidarity with mothers, children and families,” said the archbishop, who is the chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. “Let us pray and act towards this end, always listening to the Lord who fulfills glad tidings in our hearing His word each day.”

Archbishop Gudziak also said, “the essential role labor unions can and often do play in society must be acknowledged and affirmed,” and added that unions should “continue to be supported in their work that supports healthy, thriving families, especially those who are most in need.”

The archbishop highlighted the needs American families were facing in today’s economy.

“The percentage of Americans who cannot afford an unexpected $400 expense has increased to 37%. While price increases are not as steep as they once were, grocery prices have still risen nearly 5% over the last year,” he said, pointing to other statistics, including that three out of 10 mothers report “there have been times in the past year when they could not buy food.”

“Millions have been priced out of homeownership while rental housing becomes even less affordable,” he continued, and the cost of health care “is becoming out of reach for too many.”

“We are called to join Jesus in His ministry to bring glad tidings to the poor. We must do more to support families,” he said, noting that last October, the chairmen of several U.S. bishops’ committees called on Congress to show a “radical solidarity”with mothers, children and families in a post-Roe world. In June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling overturned its 1973 Roe v. Wade precedent that legalized abortion nationwide, sending the issue back to the states.

In an Oct. 26, 2022, letter to Congress, the bishops’ chairmen for their pro-life activities, family life, domestic policy and migration committees shared “their vision for an authentically life-affirming society that truly prioritizes the well-being of families and generously welcomes new life.”

“They highlighted the USCCB’s long history of support for nutrition programs, affordable housing, access to healthcare, safety net programs, and justice for workers — including things like just wages, support for organized labor, and safe working conditions regardless of immigration status — and called for policy solutions to support all children and families,” Archbishop Gudziak recalled. Those priorities remain the same for the U.S. Church, he said.

He pointed to laws Congress did enact at the end of last year that support families, measures the U.S. bishops backed, such as the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections (PUMP) for Nursing

Mothers Act and a permanent option for states to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage for one year after birth.

But Congress should strengthen the

Child Tax Credit, Archbishop Gudziak said. Congress allowed the measure to expire at the end of 2021, with the consequence that 3.7 million children slipped back into poverty, with Black and Latino families experiencing the biggest impact, according to Columbia University’s Center on Poverty and Social Policy.

Archbishop Gudziak also called for “national support for paid family leave,” emphasizing it is “pro-life to support families,” and he said there needed to be “better access to affordable, quality child care and pre-kindergarten, which also ensures just wages for child care workers and teachers.”

Additionally, he said, “Families that choose to care for children at home should be supported.”

“Faith-based child care and early education programs have served families for decades and should be included as part of the solution, in a manner consistent with their freedom to retain their religious character,” he said.

“It is good that bipartisan discussions are happening right now around all of these issues,” Archbishop Gudziak said. “Congress should take prompt action in all of these areas to protect the well-being of mothers, children, and their families.” †

OSV NEWS PHOTO

Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia cited a Federal Reserve report, saying, “more families feel like they are worse off today than the year before.”

MUNDO CATÓLICO

Corresponsabilidad Cristiana en los Hispanos de los Estados Unidos

Cuando escuché la palabra “stewardship” por primera vez, no encontré una traducción en español que me satisficiera o que fuera fácil de entender. Stewardship en español significa literalmente “administración”, por lo que se me hizo difícil traducirlo a una acción dentro de la iglesia ya que me preguntaba. cómo puedo ser administrador o tener corresponsabilidad en la administración de la iglesia?

Como inmigrante de México y nueva feligresa de la Iglesia Católica St. Martha en Kingwood, stewardship era un término nuevo para mí porque mi idea de participar dentro de la iglesia era solo en la forma de ayudar ocasionalmente, ofrecer mi tiempo como voluntario en diferentes ministerios y donar dinero durante la colecta dominical.

Como católica hispana y mujer migrante en los Estados Unidos, compartir mis dones, talentos y tiempo en la comunidad de mi iglesia era más que suficiente. Esto se debió a que, en mi país de origen, México, así como en otros países de habla hispana, esta responsabilidad compartida no es una práctica común ya que la mayoría de los feligreses toman un papel más pasivo y esperan que la iglesia se encargue de todas las necesidades espirituales y

T

E N E L

Sean O’Driscoll, gerente principal de comunicaciones de la oficina de comunicaciones de la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston, se desempeñó como maestro de ceremonias de la segunda Conferencia

Anual de Participación Parroquial Arquidiocesana en la Iglesia Católica Prince of Peace en Houston el 19 de agosto. Más de 260 personas asistieron a la conferencia, que fue organizada por las Oficinas Arquidiocesanas de Desarrollo y Comunicaciones, con conferencias magistrales y talleres centrados en el uso de los principios de la mayordomía y las comunicaciones efectivas para involucrar a los fieles en las comunidades parroquiales.

servicios a la comunidad sin pensar más allá de lo que se requiere para cumplir con todas las necesidades.

En general, la iglesia se ve principalmente como un lugar para adorar y orar, practicar la fe católica tradicional, y una fuente para el cumplimiento de los sacramentos que son la base de la fe católica.

R A N S F R M A D O S A m o r A m o r

Taller de Capacitación para líderes y facilitadores de Preparación Matrimonial

Oficina de Vida Familiar

Arquidiócesis

Galveston-Houston

Director del Programa

Dr Ricardo Medina

No fue hasta que me invitaron a participar como familia en la “Campaña de Donaciones de Capital” en español que me di cuenta de todas las responsabilidades y obligaciones que tiene la iglesia con la comunidad, como obligaciones financieras, nómina de personal, nuevos ministerios y apoyo continuo a la comunidad, proyecciones de crecimiento y necesidades a corto y largo plazo, al igual que todos los beneficios que mi familia y la comunidad reciben de la iglesia.

En ese momento es cuando comencé a entender más la necesidad de mi o nuestro rol activo dentro de la comunidad y la idea de ser “steward” de los recursos, dones y talentos otorgados dentro de mi iglesia. También entendí que “Stewardship” es un término bíblico, lo que significa que ya no somos los dueños absolutos de nuestra vida, somos administradores y corresponsables de nuestros dones y talentos otorgados por Dios en el momento en que fuimos creados y para el beneficio de nuestro

algunas responsabilidades son compartidas dentro de la familia. Yo, como mujer, por ejemplo, tengo algunas responsabilidades únicas dentro de mi familia, pero al mismo tiempo comparto muchas responsabilidades con mi esposo.

Ambos éramos proveedores y administradores de dones, talentos y tiempo para nuestros hijos, mientras que ellos también tenían sus propios roles y responsabilidades que iban aumentando a medida que iban creciendo. En general, todos los miembros de la familia deben de tener una responsabilidad compartida y ser corresponsables del bienestar de todos sus miembros.

Cuando pensé en mi primera iglesia, mi familia, y la forma en que compartimos responsabilidades y administramos todas las bendiciones que se nos otorgan, entendí exactamente lo que significa “stewardship” y mi rol activo como “steward” dentro de mi iglesia y comunidad.

Ahora considero que es nuestra responsabilidad como cristianos católicos crear conciencia y educarnos sobre la administración de los dones, los talentos y el tiempo, y que a pesar de que esta administración compartida NO existe en nuestros países de origen, y uno como inmigrante católico a los Estados Unidos debe adaptarse y hacer cambios familiares para una integración más rápida a la cultura y costumbres de este país, así como a las normas y tradiciones dentro de la iglesia.

Es nuestro deber como cristianos católicos utilizar los dones y talentos que Dios nos ha dado para contribuir y tener corresponsabilidad en la hospitalidad de la iglesia, apoyando con oración, formación y servicio en los diferentes ministerios para el beneficio de nuestra comunidad.

La participación de los hispanos en esta responsabilidad compartida debe incluir no solo de manera monetaria, sino también participando en consejos, campañas de donaciones de capitales y comités eclesiásticos para el impacto positivo y permanente de las futuras generaciones de hispanos católicos en los Estados Unidos.

Encomienda tu trabajo al Señor, y tus planes se establecerán (Prov 16:3). †

Sábado 7, 14, y 28

Sábado 7, 14, y 28 de Octubre. de Octubre.

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

St. Mary’s Hall St. Mary’s Hall

Cuando hablamos de “Stewardship”, la familia es el mejor ejemplo. Cada familia es sagrada y única ante Dios. La familia es la base de la sociedad, y es nuestra primera iglesia, nuestra primera semilla evangelizadora donde se siembra la fe y el amor a los sacramentos como católicos responsables y cristianos fieles. Cada miembro tiene roles y responsabilidades dentro del núcleo familiar, pero también

Costo $60 p/persona

Costo $60 p/persona

El costo incluye:

Libro de la Guía para el Líder; y Almuerzo

Para más información contacta a Lucero Sotelo al 281-446-8211/sotelo@st-mm.com

Programas de radio hispano de la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston

La estación de radio KYST 920 AM

Transmite los domingos 6 a.m – 7 a.m. & 8 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Olga L. Najar es directora asociada de la Oficina de Envejecimiento.

FOTO POR JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE

For ATA submission details and additional listings, visit WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.

SEPT. 14

MOVIE SCREENING, 6:45 p.m., St. Laurence (3100 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land). “The Letter Movie - A Message For Our Earth” screening joins a global movement for the Season of Creation, an annual month-long season when Christian communities pray and act to protect creation. www.archgh.org/ SocialConcernEvents.

SEPT. 15

SUPER BINGO, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., St. Monica (8421 West Montgomery Rd., Houston). Tickets are $17 presale and $20 at the door. Eight games with $75 prizes; two games with $200 prizes. Food will be sold in the kitchen. Bring your daubers. 713-412-7019; www.stmonicahouston. com; vshannon@sbcglobal.net.

SEPT. 17

FEAST AND FESTIVAL , 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Our Lady of Sorrows (3006 Kashmere St., Houston). Procession follows 10 a.m. Mass. Festival starts at noon with live music, food, games and a raffle. 713-673-5600; ourladyhouston.org; facebook.com/OurLadyHouston.

BAZAAR , 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., St. Peter the Apostle (6220 La Salette Dr., Houston). Barbeque dinner, music, Bingo, prizes, games, kids activities and more. Live raffle drawing at 5:30 p.m. 713-747-7800.

BAZAAR , 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. Cyril and Methodius (603 Parrot Ave., Damon). Features games, Bingo, pastries, silent auction, homemaker’s market, $15 plates include barbecue beef and sausage with all the trimmings and more. Auction begins at noon in the pavilion. 832-419-9060; 979-742-3383.

SEPT. 20

MEETING, 9:30 a.m., St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception (816 Park Dr., La Porte). The Bay Area Deanery Council of Catholic Women hosts a meeting to discuss 2023-24 upcoming events, bus trips, 2024 National Convention and new point system. Raffle, noon Mass, followed by lunch at local restaurant. brigittenick@att.net.

SEPT. 23

MOVIE SCREENING, 6:45 p.m., Mary Queen (606 Cedarwood Dr., Friendswood). “The Letter Movie - A Message For Our Earth” screening joins a global movement for the Season of Creation, an annual month-long season when Christian communities pray and

ASIAN CATECHISTS DAY

act to protect creation. www.archgh.org/ SocialConcernEvents.

SEPT. 23-24

BAZAAR, St. Philip Neri (10960 Martin Luther King Blvd., Houston). Saturday, noon to 6 p.m., features Super Bingo, $15 fried wings with fries, $5 boudin (mild/spicy) and drinks. Sunday, noon to 9 p.m., features booths, barbecue dinners, gumbo, Sweet Tooth booth, children’s corner and silent auction. 713-882-1134.

SEPT. 24

BAZAAR, 10:30 a.m., Immaculate Conception Sealy Columbus Club Hall (1310 US-90 W, Sealy). $13 barbecue plates (sausage, chicken) served from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., (dine-in or drive-thru available). Features live music by Kovandas Czech Band, Mexican food, auction, cake walk, gift card booth, country store, kids activities and raffle. 979-885-3868, cdoucett@ icc-sealy.org.

BAZAAR, 11 a.m., Christ Our Light (9677 N Hwy 6 Loop, Navasota). Barbecue with all the trimmings, Mexican plates, Vietnamese food, booths, live auction, country store, raffle, games. $15 a plate. 936-825-1869; www. christourlight.org.

FESTIVAL, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., St. Jerome (8825 Kempwood Dr., Houston). Live music, food, games and rides for all ages. bookkeeping@ stjeromehou.org; stjeromehou.org/fall-festival.

BAZAAR, noon to 8 p.m., St. Gregory the Great (10500 Nold St., Houston). Food, drink, raffle, plants, games and more.

SLAVIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL, noon to 6 p.m., Northside Columbus Club (607 E. Whitney

SAVE THE DATE: Red Mass & dINNeR

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Red Mass

Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart – 6:15 p.m.

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo Main Celebrant & Homilist

Optional Red Mass Dinner Following Mass Cathedral Centre – 7:30 p.m.

Additional dinner information and registration will be available soon.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF EVANGELIZATION AND CATECHESIS

Sister Maria Goretti Thuy Nguyen, OP, with the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, coordinated the annual Asian Catechists Day at Our Lady of Lavang Catholic Church in Houston on Aug. 19. More than 115 catechists and parish ministry leaders attended from parishes around the Archdiocese.

Dr., Houston). Festival features ethnic foods, music and dancing, vendors and more. Some proceeds will benefit humanitarian aid for Ukraine. houstonslavicheritagefestival.com.

SEPT. 28

PRESENTATION, 10 a.m. to noon, St. Angela Merici (9009 Sienna Ranch Rd., Missouri City). “You’re a Better Parent Than You Think!” will foster self-confidence, peace of mind and put authority where it belongs. Cost: $25 adults, $10 ages 11 to 17. Childcare available for ages 2 to 7. Must register for limited space. adultff@ stamericigh.com.

GOLF TOURNAMENT , 7 a.m., Tour 18 Golf Club (3102 FM 1960E, Humble). Fundraising Event for the JTD Ecumenical Retreats. Team of Four Scramble. $150 per person. 713-834-5669; shawn@houstonpermitservice.com; www. houstonjtd.com.

SEPT. 26

MOVIE SCREENING, 6:30 p.m., St. Theresa (6622 Haskell St., Houston). “The Letter Movie - A Message For Our Earth” screening joins a global movement for the Season of Creation, an annual month-long season when Christian communities pray and act to protect creation. www.archgh.org/SocialConcernEvents

SEPT. 27

WORKSHOP, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Wednesday until Nov. 15, Emmaus Spirituality Center (12211 Memorial Dr., Houston). “Gift of Years: A Book Study” is an eight-week book study and discussion group on the book “The Gift of Years,” Joan Chittister’s best-selling book. Cost: $10 per week. emmausspiritualitycenter.com.

SEPT. 30

WORKSHOP, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Emmaus Spirituality Center (12211 Memorial Dr., Houston). “Spiritual Biography” explores different approaches to recording the spiritual events and ways to preserve them to pass on to children, grandchildren and others. Cost: $40. emmausspiritualitycenter.com.

RETREAT, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston). Catholic Literary Arts hosts a “A Catholic Writer’s Retreat: Writing as a Vocation” with priest/ author Father John Bullock,L.C., and author Sarah Cortez exploring the artist’s role from the writings of St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. catholicliteraryarts.org; 713-331-9342.

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MILESTONES

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Former Galveston-Houston auxiliary bishop celebrates a trilogy of milestones

BEAUMONT — Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro traveled to Beaumont to celebrate several milestones for Bishop-Emeritus Curtis J. Guillory, SVD, DD. Bishop Guillory celebrated his 80th birthday, 50th anniversary of priestly ordination and 35th anniversary of episcopal ordination with a Mass and reception on Sept. 1 at the St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica in downtown Beaumont.

Born Sept. 1, 1943, he was ordained a priest for the Divine Word Missionaries on Dec. 16, 1972, and then consecrated as an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston on Feb. 19, 1988, by the late Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza.

Bishop Guillory was appointed the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Beaumont and installed July 28, 2000. Pope Francis accepted Bishop Guillory’s retirement as a bishop in June 2020 when then-Monsignor David Toups was announced as the sixth Bishop of Beaumont. Bishop Guillory has served the Beaumont Diocese longer (nearly 20 years) than any other of the diocese’s bishops.

Cardinal DiNardo described Bishop Guillory as homespun but a genuine theologian, a good shepherd who loved Jesus and loved the Church. †

PHOTOS BY THE DIOCESE OF BEAUMONT

Bishop Emeritus Curtis J. Guillory, SVD, of the Diocese of Beaumont celebrated a trilogy of milestones during a Sept. 1 celebration at St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica in Beaumont.

[Above, at left] Daniel Cardinal DiNardo meets with Bishop Guillory.

[Above] Bishop Guillory processes into the Basilica to preside over Mass, following current Beaumont Bishop David L. Toups. [At left] Several Texas bishops, including Galveston-Houston Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, and Bishop Brendan J. Cahill of Victoria, concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Guillory.