Texas Catholic Herald - Dec. 12, 2023

DECEMBER 12, 2023 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

CARDINAL DINARDO’S ADVENT MESSAGE

NEW VATICAN STAMP

▪ SEE PAGE 2

▪ SEE PAGE 14

Christmas stamp marks 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ creche display

DECEMBER 12, 2023

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A MODEL OF FAITH

New St. José Sánchez del Río Chapel at Camp Kappe offers reflection of faith for youth ▪ SEE PAGE 16

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

An ADVENT season with the SAINTS in faith HOUSTON (OSV News) — Advent prepares us for Jesus’ coming at Christmas and for His coming into our lives afresh. And no one knows how to get ready to welcome Christ better than the saints.

They express their love for Him by putting Him first in their hearts. They make room for Him by clearing out the clutter EMBRACING of sins and THE ADVENT faults. The saints pursue holiness SEASON by embracing the Lord’s teaching and lifestyle.

They respond to His graces by practicing spiritual disciplines like prayer, Scripture study, fasting and almsgiving. And the saints express their love for God by reaching out to others with the Good News. They especially dedicate themselves to caring for the poor and marginalized.

So, let’s make the most of this Advent and spend it with four representative saints, imitating the ways that they opened their hearts to Jesus.

See SAINTS, page 4

MINISTRIES

Nurturing faith, communion for Hispanic and Latino Catholics

BY KERRY MCGUIRE Herald Correspondent HOUSTON — In the GalvestonHouston area, Catholics from diverse Hispanic and Latino backgrounds unite, emphasizing their shared love for Christ and the Church, transcending cultural boundaries.

According to Lázaro Contreras, the director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry, the ministry’s primary mission is to be an agent of transformation among Hispanic and Latino Catholics, who currently comprise over half of the Catholic population in the Archdiocese.

This involves fostering leadership roles and vocations to the priesthood, religious life, permanent diaconate, ecclesial lay ministry, and responsible societal engagement.

“We fulfill our mission by encouraging See MINISTRY, page 6

EDUCATION

Steps for Students 5K race celebrating 19 years running

▪ ST. THÉRÈSE OF LISIEUX (1873– 1897)

We are attracted to St. Thérèse because she was an ordinary person. Raised in a faithful Catholic family, she was doted on by her father, teased by her sisters and suffered the pain of loss.

Her youth was troubled by her mother’s death and by two sisters entering the convent. But on Christmas 1887, Thérèse experienced a conversion that released her spiritual sadness. “Love filled my heart, I forgot myself, and henceforth I was happy,” she said.

The next year, when Thérèse was only 15, the bishop allowed her to join the Carmelite convent at Lisieux. She wanted to become a missionary and a martyr but soon realized that neither option was open to a cloistered nun. So she sought the Holy Spirit for another way to serve the Lord Jesus. Reflecting on Scripture, Thérèse learned to do the loving thing in every situation, which she discovered was the fuel that fired the faith of martyrs and saints. Doing the least of actions for love became the secret of her “little way.”

VOL. 60, NO. 12

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald

CNS PHOTO

A stained glass window inside St. Thérèse Chapel at Holy Hill in Hubertus, Wis., depicts St. Thérèse with fellow Carmelite saints, John of the Cross and Teresa of Avila. Consider meditating on the stories of the saints this Advent season.

THE FIRST WORD † 3

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COLUMNISTS † 8 - 10

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ESPAÑOL † 13

HOUSTON — Race officials are calling for volunteers to help in the 19th annual Steps for Students 5K Run/Walk in downtown Houston on Feb. 10, 2024.

Each year, Steps for Students continues to be the largest event in the Archdiocese to support Catholic education. Thousands of students, parents and community supporters have already registered for this year’s Steps for Students, which directly benefits the 17,500-plus students enrolled in the 45 Catholic primary schools throughout the Archdiocese.

But there are more ways to help than just registering. Liz Filer, a teacher at St. Helen Catholic School in Pearland who coordinates volunteers for the event, said they can earn service hours while See STUDENTS, page 5

| AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE † 15

2 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

El Cardenal Daniel DiNardo comparte su columna en línea en español.

Visite www.archgh.org para leer su artículo en línea.

Publishing since 1964 (USPS 936-480)

A Shepherd’s Message

THE ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON

By Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

NEWSDESK

W

e have already begun the Advent Season as I write these few words of encouragement to help us make ready a way for the Lord. This seems appropriate this year as the Church at large has just finished the first year of its Synodal Meeting in Rome this past October and is preparing for the final Synodal Encounter next year.

Preparing a way for the Lord is about opening hearts, most especially our own, to receive Him in everyday experiences where He begins to show Himself. As always, the Lord shows Himself, especially in the poor, the homeless and the alienated. In other words, He shows Himself in those who may be different from us but

are always looking for signs of the Redeemer! Preparing a way to meet the Lord and others is a synodal way of acting — simple and straightforward.

There is a magnificent reading from the prophet Isaiah on the First Sunday of Advent where the prophet begs the Lord “to rend the heavens and come down!” The prophet pleads for the God of Israel to visit once again God’s people in smoke and fire, to return with his Law as at Mount Sinai in the desert. Humanity has turned away, God has hidden His face, and no action of a human being can change that situation. God is infinitely alive, one, and beyond human bargains and deals. Without the Lord, the people are like leaves blowing away. Since, on our own, we cannot change what is wrong with us and the world, the Lord must come. This is a partial but necessary dimension of Advent. Please hurry, Lord! The world is in a mess! I am in a mess!

Come with fire and anger!

A second figure in Advent is St. John the Baptist. John stands at the margins, in the desert! He does so on purpose. He leaves behind the normal trappings of clothing, eating and abiding. He, CNS PHOTO too, rends the sky with A depiction of Mary’s and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem his voice. He makes sculpted from sand is displayed in the Italian own of Jesolo. an appeal: “Repent! Be

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washed clean!” Prepare by changing your heart and asking the Lord to send the Promised One, the Messiah, to make that change of heart real and stable. John the Baptist is both a frightening figure and a hopeful one. His humility makes him confess before Jesus that he is not worthy to untie his sandal straps. On the other hand, his prophetic voice makes him bluntly declare before the Scribes and Pharisees in every age that they are… a brood of vipers!

The third figure of Advent is the most compelling of them all, the most beautifully simple and pure. It is the figure of the Virgin Mary. Her humble but straightforward assent to the Angel Gabriel to be the Mother and Handmaid of the Lord Jesus, her journey of charity and concern to visit her cousin Elizabeth, her help to the older woman with her pregnancy, her beautiful “country” song of the Magnificat in the Hill Country of Judea, and her giving birth to the Eternal Word on Christmas after the journey to Bethlehem. All these make her THE model of Advent. Her silence and her song invite us to come aside from even a little bit of noise this Advent and join her in a full welcome of the Lord who comes to us in his Well-Beloved Son. Happy Advent! †

THE HOLY FATHER’S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR DECEMBER PRAYER INTENTION: FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

For the month of December, Pope Francis’ prayer intention invites us to put an end to discrimination and to change “our mentality, opening ourselves to the abilities and talents of these people who are differently abled, both in society as well as in the life of the Church.”

Pope Francis called for prayer “that people with disabilities may be at the center of attention in society, and that institutions offer inclusion programs that enhance their active participation.” †

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

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ads@archgh.org • 713-652-4407 Daniel Cardinal DiNardo Archbishop, President & Publisher Jonah Dycus Communications Director & Executive Editor Rebecca Torrellas Managing Editor James Ramos Designer & Photo-Journalist Catherine Viola Advertising Manager Kerry McGuire and Jo Ann Zuñiga Contributors

An award-winning member of The Catholic Media Association The Texas Catholic Herald 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. Periodical postage paid at Houston, TX and other distribution points.

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THE FIRST WORD Editor’s Note: Delivery of the Texas Catholic Herald was delayed due to the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Dec. 8. For the latest news, visit the TCH website online at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/TCH.

O Antiphons

BRIEFS

T

he Roman Church has been singing the “O Antiphons” since at least the eighth century. They are the antiphons that accompany the Magnificat canticle of Evening Prayer from Dec. 17 to 23.

They are a magnificent theology that uses ancient biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming Christ as the fulfillment not only of Old Testament hopes, but present ones as well. Their repeated use of the imperative “Come!” embodies the longing of all for the Divine Messiah.

DECEMBER 17

DECEMBER 21

O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!

O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.

DECEMBER 18

O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!

DECEMBER 22

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

DECEMBER 19

DECEMBER 23

O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all His people: come to save us without delay!

O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God!

DECEMBER 20

For other resources on how to celebrate the Advent season, including prayers and more, visit www.archgh.org/advent.

O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!

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HOUSTON — Daniel Cardinal DiNardo will preside over two separate Masses, marking a pair of major Advent and Christmas devotions for the Filipino and Vietnamese Catholic communities.

Cardinal DiNardo will celebrate the Archdiocesan Simbang Gabi Culmination Mass at Sts. Simon and Jude Parish (26777 Glen Loch Dr., The Woodlands) on Friday, Dec. 22, at 7 p.m. Traditional Filipino carols begin at 6:30 p.m. The Mass concludes the Filipino Simbang Gabi novena tradition, a series of Masses held in anticipation of Christmas across the Archdiocese.

Then, Cardinal DiNardo is set to be the main celebrant for a Christmas Eve Mass at Our Lady of La Vang Parish (12320 Old Foltin Rd., Houston) on Sunday, Dec. 24, at 6 p.m. with the Vietnamese Catholic community. †

Catholic Charities’ food distributions continue at three locations

HOUSTON — Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston offers food assistance at three locations.

In Houston, food distributions at the Guadalupe Center (326 S. Jensen St.) are Tuesdays from 9 to 11 a.m., Wednesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. New clients should bring a photo ID and bill with a confirming address.

Drive-thru distributions are on Tuesdays at 9 to 11 a.m.

Call 713-251-6919 for more information.

The Beacon of Hope Isle Market in Galveston (4700 Broadway, Suite F-103) is open Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To make an appointment, which is required, call 409-762-2064. The next mobile food drive is on Dec. 27.

In Fort Bend County, the Mamie George Community Center (1111 Collins Rd., Richmond) hosts drive-thru food distributions and in-person shopping. Drive-thru distributions, in partnership with the Houston Food Bank, are on Tuesdays, from 5 to 7 p.m., and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Register by texting “HFBPS” to 855-788-3663, then select “Catholic Charities Richmond.” Clients should visit by appointment only on Mondays, 12 to 2 p.m.; Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For help, call 281-202-6200. For more information, visit www. catholiccharities.org/food or call 713-874-6521. †

DSF annual appeal to support Archdiocesan ministries continues

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Cardinal DiNardo set to celebrate Simbang Gabi, Christmas Eve Masses

GO PAPERLESS!

HOUSTON — This year, the theme of the annual Diocesan Services Fund (DSF) appeal is “God is the Strength of My Heart.”

The annual campaign to support 64 Archdiocese-wide ministries is underway, and the local Church is asking parishioners to continue their generous giving to DSF. The fund supports a variety of ministries, such as those forming youth in the Catholic faith; providing support and preparation for clergy; teaching, evangelizing, worshiping and outreach to the incarcerated, aging, poor and sick; and programming to strengthen Christian families, among many others.

To pledge online or see a full list of the ministries supported, visit www.archgh.org/dsf. †

4 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

LOCAL

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

Pope Francis speaks to Dubai via video Pope tells faith leaders the world needs people who are not against others but are in favor of everyone. ▪ SEE PAGE 11

Turning to the saints can offer wisdom this Advent SAINTS, from page 1 What does a 19th-century nun have to do with us? Juggling the duties of family, work or school, navigating freeways and keeping up with the digital world, we don’t have much time for pursuing holiness, do we? But that’s where Thérèse sets the example for us. Her simplicity shows us that we, too, can be holy.

▪ VENERABLE MATT TALBOT (1856– 1925)

For 16 years, Venerable Matt Talbot was a daily drunk. Then, one day, an unanticipated conversion transformed him, and he became a model penitent following Jesus Christ.

As a child of a poor family in Dublin, Matt had to forgo school for a job. After a year of basic education, he started working for a wine seller. Matt started drinking heavily at the early age of 12.

His father beat him and made him change jobs — but nothing could stop Matt’s habit. He said that when he was intoxicated, he occasionally thought about the Blessed Mother and prayed an off-handed Hail Mary. Matt speculated later that she had something to do with his conversion.

One day in 1884, everything suddenly changed. Matt had been out of work several days and expected his buddies to take him drinking. When they snubbed him, he made a decision that transformed his life.

When he arrived at home, his mother said, “You’re home early, Matt, and you’re sober!” He replied,“Yes, Mother, I am, and I’m going to take the pledge.” The next day, he went to confession and took the sobriety pledge for three months.

But Matt extended three months of going without alcohol into 41 years. In 1891, Matt found community support by joining the Franciscan Third Order. He lived the rest of his life quietly, working and praying. St. Paul VI declared him venerable in 1975.

At a time when addictions to alcohol, other drugs and pornography are running rampant, Matt Talbot stands as an exemplar of the ways to freedom and

OSV NEWS PHOTO

OSV NEWS PHOTO

A family lights an Advent wreath at their home. The rose-colored candle on the Advent wreath is lit the third week of Advent.

Italian Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati was a struggling student who excelled in mountain climbing. He had complete faith in God and persevered through college, dedicating himself to helping the poor and supporting Church social teaching. He died at age 24 and was beatified

by St. John Paul II in 1990. He is pictured in an undated photo.

holiness through Jesus.

▪ BLESSED ANNE MARY TAIGI (17691837)

A model woman, Blessed Anne Mary managed a large household in Rome for nearly five decades. She handled finances with little money, patiently cared for a difficult extended family and entertained a constant stream of guests. She did all this full of faith and good cheer.

At age 21, Anne Mary married Domenico Taigi, a servant in a Roman palace. They had seven children, two of whom died in childbirth. Early in her marriage, Anne Mary experienced a religious conversion. She simplified her life, initiating practices of prayer and self-denial that she pursued the rest of her life in following Jesus Christ.

Anne Mary took the spiritual lead in her family. The day began with morning prayer and Mass and ended with reading the lives of the saints and praying the Rosary. The Taigis had little of their own, but Anne Mary always found ways of

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providing for those who had less. She also took in her hard-to-get-along-with parents and her widowed daughter, Sophie, with her six children.

Domenico’s violent temper often disrupted the family. But Anne Mary was always able to calm him and restore peaceful relationships. In his old age, Domenico gave this touching tribute to his wife: “With her wonderful tact, she was able to maintain a heavenly peace in our home. And that even though we were a large household full of people with very different temperaments.”

“I often came home tired, moody and cross, but she always succeeded in soothing and cheering me. And due to her, I corrected some of my faults. If I were a young man and could search the whole world to find such a wife, it would be vain. I believe that God has received her into heaven because of her great virtue. And I hope that she will pray for me and our family.”

We may imagine that becoming a saint requires heroics like founding a religious order or converting people in faraway places who have never heard of the Gospel. But Blessed Anne Mary shows us that the daily faithful care of a family

requires more than enough heroism to make us holy.

▪ BLESSED PIER GIORGIO FRASSATI (1901-1925)

When he was pope, St. John Paul II celebrated Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati as a man of the Beatitudes. Athletic and strong, he devoted himself to the weak and malformed. He was wealthy, but he lived in poverty so he could give everything to the poor. He was gregarious but a lover of solitude. He was rambunctious, the life of every party, and a practical joker, but at prayer, he was solemn, reflective and quiet.

As a teenager, Pier Giorgio made friends with the poor in Turin’s back streets and gave them whatever he had — his money, his shoes, his overcoat.

“Jesus comes to me every morning in holy Communion,” he replied to a friend who asked why the hovels did not repulse See SAINTS, next page

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Annual race benefits Catholic education, students STUDENTS, from page 1 ensuring the 5K Run/Walk goes smoothly.

“We have more than 10,000 runners from across the Archdiocese, so we need at least 300 volunteers to distribute T-shirts and bibs while others can be stationed along the route, hand out medals and other duties,” Filer said, who is also an athletic coach.

Dr. Phyliss Coleman, principal at St. Helen, said her school, staff and students have been volunteering for “as long as I’ve been here for the past 11 years” of the 19-year event.

“St. Helen is our patron saint of service and evangelization, so our great staff is out there serving bottles of water, snack bars and fruit to the runners, walkers and even passers-by to share as Christians,” Dr. Coleman said.

“Most of our families and students involved are runners and walkers, but they also help set up for the Catholic School Village and other activities,” she said.

Their school’s official kickoff for Steps takes place in January during Catholic Schools Week celebrations.

“We’ll have bake sales and other school events to raise funds for Steps while making it fun for students with games and prizes,” the principal said.

Each school gets to designate its registration fees and pledges to directly benefit their school — counting toward the families’ fundraising goals.

“We’re not one of the bigger fundraisers for Steps, but we raise about $15,000.

Most of that goes back to the students for tuition assistance and to help pay for academic and athletic competition fees.

We have students who compete in speech, drama, chess and even engineering,” Dr. Coleman said.

The cost to support and compete in the timed 5K, which is a USA Track and SAINTS, from previous page him. “I repay him in my very small way by visiting the poor. The house may be sordid, but I am going to Christ.”

Pier Giorgio saw the need for social change to relieve the causes of poverty.

At the university, he decided to major in mechanical engineering so that he could work with miners who were especially disadvantaged. He was a leader in student political organizations and actively opposed Benito Mussolini and the Fascists.

At the same time, he was the organizer of student parties, games and ski trips to the Alps, where he would lead his friends in prayer. Afterward, they relaxed and enjoyed food, wine, cigars and songs.

Blessed Pier Giorgio has become the hero of contemporary young Catholics.

They recognize his high Christian

WANT TO GO?

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Runners race down San Jacinto Street at the 2023 Steps for Students 5K Race. The 2024 race is set for Feb. 10 at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and registration is under way.

Field-certified and sanctioned event, chip-timed and features a single-loop, is $20. For untimed races, the registration is $18, while the Family 1K Fun Run is $17 per person. To still support Catholic schools and receive the official race T-shirt but be able to sleep in or not run the event, registration is $20 but will go up after Feb. 1, 2024.

Superintendent of Catholic Schools Debra Haney said, “We are so thrilled to celebrate the community, connectivity, collegiality, charity and a little bit of healthy competition that this event brings for our schools.”

She added, “Join us for our Sunrise Mass at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart at 7 a.m. before visiting the Catholic School Village and the presentation of the David Guite Spirit Award and President’s Cup.” One of those sponsors who has ideals, still held while pursuing the same pleasures that they enjoy. They gravitate to this handsome and charming saint who delighted in reciting the poetry of Dante, praying the Rosary in a booming voice and spending a night in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

CHRIST’S FINAL COMING

Advent anticipates not only Jesus’ coming to us as a baby but it also expects His final coming in glory. Since the Father alone knows the day of the end, the Lord cautioned us always to be watchful and to conduct ourselves in uprightness.

When Jesus comes as the Bridegroom to wed the Church, we do not want to be as unprepared as the five foolish virgins in the parable (see Mt 25:1-13).

For more Advent resources, visit www. archgh.org/advent. †

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worked on the Steps committee for more than a decade, Colin Hageney of Bullpen Marketing, said he remembered years ago when the Steps event had then-Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza kick off the race from the back of a pick-up truck. Now, there is a full stage, decorated starting line and buzzing drones capturing all the action as Daniel Cardinal DiNardo blesses the runners.

“Steps for Students is more than a race,” Hageney said. “With the Catholic School Village tailgating, it’s networking and

FEBRUARY 10, 2024 Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart 1111 St. Joseph Pkwy., Houston Register: www.steps4students.org Prices increase Feb. 1, 2024 Cost: $17 - $20 7 a.m. - Sunrise Mass 8:30 a.m. - Race start 9:30 a.m. - Post Race Party in Catholic School Village celebrating. Everyone who participates gets a medal. We have sisters and priests running, families with strollers, kids and high school students. It’s a blessing over everyone.”

The event brings together school communities, parishioners, community partners/sponsors and runners from across the Archdiocese’s 10 counties. To register, sponsor, volunteer or for more information, visit www.steps4students. org. †

6 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD LOCAL

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

Hispanic ministries empower Catholic families respond to baptismal call in parishes and beyond MINISTRY, from page 1 our Hispanic and Latino families and leaders to live out their Catholic faith and take active roles in their churches and society,” Contreras said. “This is their way of responding to their baptismal call and being those missionary disciples that go out and become Christ to one another.”

Contreras said one way the ministry carries out these good works is through strong values and basic principles in a ministry called Pastoral de Conjunto, which means “Communion in Mission” and functions as an interactive center of communications for the Hispanic/ Latino community. The ministry not only identifies the needs and aspirations of the community but also facilitates a collaborative response involving various Archdiocesan offices, parishes, and Catholic and secular organizations. Staff and volunteers engage in the vital task of observing, listening, and discerning, ensuring the voices and concerns of the Hispanic and Latino communities are heard and addressed.

“We also offer programs in leadership formation and promote the awareness of ecclesial inclusion or intercultural competencies for our parish ministers,” Contreras said. “Much of the direct contact and the pastoral care and accompaniment of Hispanic Catholics is

PHOTO BY LÁZARO CONTRERAS

St. Charles Borromeo Church in Houston hosted a celebration commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month in September.

through the ministries and Sacraments in our parishes. As a pastoral Archdiocesan office, we want to be a resource and support to our pastors, parish staff, parish councils, lay groups and movements, and parish leaders.”

One leadership formation opportunity is the Hispanic Ministry Conference, held every two years. This provides Church leaders with essential tools for accompanying and offering pastoral care to Hispanic and Latino Catholics, and the event features workshops and keynote speaker presentations in both English and Spanish.

Additionally, Hispanic and Latino parish leaders have the opportunity to attend the national conference, V Encuentro, fostering a gathering of the entire Church to reflect on the community’s needs, challenges, dreams, hopes and aspirations in the U.S. Discussions on how to best serve this community stem from listening sessions during the Synod to Synodality and the creation of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Plan.

Esperanza Monterrubio, MA, a Maryknoll Mission educator, and promoter, has been involved with the Office of Hispanic Ministry for three decades, serving on the Archdiocesan Hispanic Ministry Advisory Board and participating in various programs and trainings. She highlights the U.S. Bishops’ recently approved National Pastoral Plan, considering the Hispanic and Latino community as a divine blessing revitalizing the Church. She emphasized the crucial role of supporting the plan to mentor, educate and cultivate a new generation of Hispanic and Latino leaders as missionary disciples for both the Church and society.

“The ministry helped me to implement the V Encuentro Process in my parish, St. Paul the Apostle, to strengthen the ways in which Hispanics and Latinos respond to the call to the New Evangelization as Missionaries Disciples,” Monterrubio said. “As a lay minister in the Church and coworkers in the vineyard of the Lord, I have grown in my ministry through trainings, such as Building Intercultural Competence, as well as gaining knowledge and developing skills to be open and respectful of people from other cultures.”

For almost 12 years, Cony Tavera Martín has found a second home in the Office of Hispanic Ministry, which she felt facilitated her quick integration into the U.S. As an active facilitator in the community, she expressed deep gratitude for the abundant love and support she has received.

“In time, I became a facilitator in various aspects of our beautiful community, experiencing significant personal growth and receiving more love than I’ve given,” Martin said. “I participated in the V Encuentro, facilitated the Christopher Leadership Course in Spanish, and proudly joined the first generation of Liderazgo en Acción, a leadership program inspired by the V Encuentro’s objectives for new leadership formation.

I am honored to serve in the current Liderazgo en Acción Program, and the ministry can count on me for assistance with all my love and effort.”

As one of the 60 ministries supported by the annual Diocesan Service Fund (DSF), Contreras emphasizes that the ministry continues to accompany Hispanic and Latino Catholics on their spiritual journeys thanks to the generosity of the

archgh.org/dsf 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.

faithful in the Archdiocese.

“The Office of Hispanic Ministry’s vision is one of faith, ecclesial inclusion and integration, and transformation, and we continue to play a crucial role in nurturing the spiritual growth of the Hispanic and Latino community while inspiring leadership that surpasses cultural boundaries,” Contreras said.

Since summer 2021, Marisel Menendez, religious education assistant registrar at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church, has been actively involved with the Office of Hispanic Ministry, exploring diverse ways to serve the Hispanic and Latino population. She credits the Office of Hispanic Ministry for fostering networking and idea-sharing among parishes and Archdiocesan offices, enhancing community service opportunities.

“The Hispanic community is the majority in our Archdiocese, so it is very important to serve its population to keep unity with the broader Catholic community,” Menendez said.

“The DSF supports many ministries that help the Hispanics in our area in ways that no one Church alone can do, but collectively, we can offer many of the services our community needs.”

Monterrubio agrees that giving to the DSF provides vital support for the Church to sustain its mission of serving all people.

“Giving to the DSF is crucial as it supports various programs, trainings and services in the Church, including those benefiting the Hispanic community and the whole Church, such as formation, outreach and social services,” Monterrubio said.

To learn more about the Office of Hispanic Ministry in the Archdiocese, visit www.archgh.org/OHM. To donate to the DSF, go to www.archgh.org/DSF. The DSF supports each of these ministries, whether direct service or education, which require this critical funding to remain in operation. Out of each gift given to DSF, 100% of every dollar goes directly to supporting these ministries. †

DIOCESAN SERVICES FUND

texas catholic herald 7

DECEMBER 12, 2023 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

EDUCATION

STUDENTS DECORATE RESTAURANT, RECEIVE CHRISTMAS GIFT

ST. LAURENCE SCHOOL RECEIVES BLUE RIBBON AWARD IN D.C.

2022 DSF_14x4.625_generic final.pdf

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OFFICE

PHOTO BY CATIE WATSO / OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Students at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic School in Houston walked down the block after Thanksgiving to decorate The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation for the Christmas season, followed by a lunch provided by the restaurant. In return for their efforts, Ninfa’s donated $50,000 to the school.

Adriana Gutierrez, director of communications for St. Laurence Catholic School, Suzanne Barto, principal at St. Laurence Catholic School, and Debra Haney, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, went to Washington, D.C., on Nov. 17 to receive the school’s third Blue Ribbon Award since it was founded in 1992. Each year, the U.S. Department of Education honors the National Blue Ribbon Schools at the awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., where each school receives a plaque and flag to signify its exemplary status.

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YOUTH

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

AN INSPIRED PLACE TO PRAY

Cardinal DiNardo dedicates new chapel at Camp Kappe

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE EISTERHOLD/FOR THE HERALD

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo blessed the new St. José Sánchez del Río Chapel at the School of Environmental Education at Camp Kappe in Plantersville on Dec. 1. Fifth graders across the Catholic schools in Texas spend several days and nights at Camp Kappe each year learning about the environment, participating in STREAM activities and caring for nature. The chapel is named after St. José Sánchez del Río, seen at left, a young Mexican who died at 14 as a martyr for his Catholic faith during the Cristero Rebellion in the late 1920s. TO WATCH A VIDEO RECAP OF THE DEDICATION MASS, VISIT WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATAVIDEO ONLINE OR SCAN CODE AT RIGHT.

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Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen – USCCB Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life And Vocations

texas catholic herald 9

DECEMBER 12, 2023 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

GOD IS THE STRENGTH OF MY HEART

MINISTRY What we cannot do as individuals, we can do through the big heart of the Archdiocese in our DSF-supported ministries.

SERVICE

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– Daniel Cardinal DiNardo Archbishop of Galveston-Houston

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10 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

COLUMNISTS Continuing the battle against racism On March 21, the United Nations observed the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

The Holy See, which was represented

by Archbishop Gabriel Giordano Caccia, reiterated the Holy See’s strong condemnation of racism. The Holy See states: Racism “should be countered by promoting a culture of solidarity and authentic human fraternity.”

Nuncio and Vatican Observer (Ambassador) Archbishop Caccia addressed the United Nations Assembly and stated: “Only the recognition of human dignity can make possible the common and personal growth of everyone and every society.

To stimulate this kind of growth, it is necessary in particular to ensure conditions of equal opportunity for men and women and guarantee an objective equality between all human beings.”

On Nov. 22, 2022, the Holy Father Pope Francis spoke to a group of

American journalists regarding the various issues that are at the forefront of American society. Pope Francis stated: “Racism is an intolerable sin against God. The Church, the by pastors and lay people must continue fighting to eradicate it and for a FATHER more just world.”

REGINALD Pope Francis said of SAMUELS the events in the U.S. over the last few years: “We cannot close our eyes to any form of racism or exclusion while pretending to defend the sacredness of every human life.”

In June 2020, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo issued a statement regarding racism in our Church, community, and country: “Plainly stated, for it is plain to see, we in America have a plank in our eye with regard to racism. This is a tough but necessary reality to

confront because we cannot address a problem until we acknowledge it. This includes us as members of the Catholic Church.”

In 2018, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a pastoral letter called: “Open Wide Our Hearts,” which condemns racism and vows to use the Church to combat it.

In the pastoral letter, the bishops wrote: “There have been many times when the Church has failed to live as Christ taught — to love our brothers and sisters. Acts of racism have been committed by leaders and members of the Catholic Church — by bishops, clergy, religious, and laity — and her institutions. Consequently, we all need to take responsibility for correcting the injustices of racism and healing the harm it has caused.

The Catholic bishops went on to state in the pastoral letter: “The roots of racism have extended deeply into the soul of our society. Racism can only end if we contend with the policies and

institutional barriers that perpetuate and preserve the inequality — economic and social — that we still see all around us.”

On Jan. 14, 2024, at the CoCathedral of the Sacred Heart, the Church of Galveston-Houston will once again celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. The Church will use this moment in time to rededicate itself to the fight for racial justice.

Acknowledgment of the sin of racism, prayer and action are the true reasons we celebrate the life of Dr. King. Now is the time to promote a culture of solidarity and authentic human fraternity and continue to move to action to bring an end to racism and start the healing that is needed in our Church, community and country. † Father Reginald Samuels is the vicar for Catholics of African Descent and pastor at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church in Deer Park.

The Paraclete Who comes to your mind when you think of a person who embodies the fruits of the Holy Spirit? Perhaps it’s a loved one who loves you unconditionally.

Or maybe it’s a priest or nun who, with a sole glance or smile, embodies peace and modesty.

For me, it was my mentor, whom we will call Rose. She came into my life during a time of work-related assignments, and I now realize it was all God’s perfect timing. Not only did God

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know I would need her counsel through the many challenges and persecutions, but her continual peace and kindness grounded me while I would sometimes be a nervous by wreck. There were times we experienced several fallacious accusations, MELISSA and while I pondered ÁLVAREZ with tearful eyes in disbelief of such malice, Rose, filled with love and gentleness, would share times when she experienced similar experiences and would bring me back through a sigh. Despite the effects of the accusations, Rose continually

shared a profound level of support that can only be described through the attributes of the Holy Spirit.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22).

The fruits of the Spirit are indeed the production of what the Holy Spirit forms in us when we pray, ask and live out God’s will.

I find it astonishing that the holy family gave us wonderful insight as to how we are to live out these attributes.

I remember my mentor being fond of St. Joseph, who shares for himself a plethora of very cool titles for his actions.

When it comes to the Queen of

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“Lord, teach us to contemplate you in the beauty of creation and reawaken our gratitude and sense of responsibility.”

– Pope Francis

Heaven, we can’t ignore her role as the dwelling place for the Son of God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, “The Holy Spirit prepared Mary

by His grace. It was fitting that the mother of Him in whom “the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily should herself be ‘full of grace.’ She was, by sheer grace, conceived without sin as the humblest of creatures, the most capable of welcoming the inexpressible gift of the Almighty. It was quite correct for the angel Gabriel to greet her as the ‘Daughter of Zion’: ‘Rejoice.’ It is the thanksgiving of the whole People of God, and thus of the Church, which Mary in her canticle lifts up to the Father in the Holy Spirit while carrying within her the eternal Son” (CCC, 722).

Therefore, we are invited today to give thanks for the Rose in your life who was sent from above to walk with you because God does not abandon us, and we are never alone. Many thanks to Monsignor Dan Scheel, spiritual advisor for the Galveston-Houston Archdiocese Council of Catholic Women, for sharing about the Holy Spirit, which prompted me to conduct an intriguing research study for the “Paraclete.” † Melissa Alvarez is an associate director with the Ministry with Persons with Disabilities of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.

DEC. 17

First Reading: Is 61:1-2, 10-11

Responsorial Psalm: Lk 1:46-50, 53-54

Second Reading: 1 Thess 5:16-24

Gospel: Jn 1:6-8, 19-28

DEC. 24

First Reading: 2 Sam 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 89:2-5, 27, 29

Second Reading: Rom 16:25-27

Gospel: Lk 1:26-38

texas catholic herald 11

DECEMBER 12, 2023 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

WORLD

Humanity must build alliances supporting peace, creation, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The world needs people to build alliances that are not against others but are in favor of everyone, Pope Francis told faith leaders at the U.N. Climate Change Conference being held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“It is important that religions, without falling into the trap of syncretism, set a good example by working together: not for their own interests or those of one party, but for the interests of our world. Among these, the most important nowadays are peace and the climate,” he said in a video message.

“As religious representatives, let us set an example to show that change is possible and bear witness to respectful and sustainable lifestyles,” he said, speaking in Spanish at the Vatican.

The pope’s message was broadcast on Dec. 3 during the inauguration of the first Faith Pavilion at a U.N. climate conference. The pope was to have been present at the COP28 conference on Dec. 1 to 3, but canceled his trip on Nov. 28 due to severe bronchitis.

“I offer you cordial greetings, and I am very sorry that I cannot be with you,” he said in the video message.

He thanked the organizers for establishing a religious pavilion as part of a COP “because this testifies to the willingness to work together.”

“At the present time, the world needs alliances that are not against someone but in favor of everyone,” he said.

“With a loud voice, let us implore leaders of nations that our common home be preserved,” he said. “Let us safeguard

CNS PHOTO

Pope Francis signs the Interfaith Statement on Climate Change in his Vatican residence Dec. 3. The pope had been scheduled to sign the document at the Faith Pavilion at COP28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, but was forced to cancel the trip because of a bronchial infection.

creation and protect our common home; let us live in peace and promote peace!”

The pope also had a longer speech prepared for the inauguration, and that was read in Dubai by Pietro Cardinal Parolin, Vatican secretary of state and president of the Vatican’s delegation at the climate conference.

The pope wrote in his talk, “The problem of climate change is also a religious problem: its roots lie in the creature’s presumption of selfsufficiency.”

“That insatiable desire for power wells up whenever we consider ourselves lords

of the world, whenever we live as though God did not exist and, as a result, end up prey to passing things,” he wrote.

“Instead of mastering technology, we let technology master us,” the pope wrote. “We become mere commodities, desensitized, incapable of sorrow and compassion, self-absorbed and, turning our backs on morality and prudence, we destroy the very sources of life.”

Religions are “voices of conscience for humanity,” he wrote, and remind people that “we are finite creatures” with a need for the infinite and the duty to care for creation.

“We need, urgently, to act for the sake of the environment. It is not enough merely to increase spending: we need to change our way of life and thus educate everyone to sober and fraternal lifestyles,”

he wrote.

“A world poor in contemplation will be a world polluted in soul, a world that will continue to discard people and produce waste,” he wrote. “A world that lacks prayer will speak many words but, bereft of compassion and tears, will only live off a materialism made of money and weapons.”

Peace and the stewardship of creation are interdependent, the pope wrote, and “peacekeeping is also a task for the religions. May our actions not contradict the words we speak; may we not merely speak about peace but take a stand against those who claim to be believers yet fuel hatred and do not oppose violence.”

The Faith Pavilion was hosted by the Muslim Council of Elders in collaboration with the COP28 presidency, the U.N. Environment Program and more than 50 faith organizations. It hosted events that brought together representatives from religions, civil society, Indigenous peoples, scientists, young people and political leaders.

The inauguration event on Dec. 3 opened with a video message from Egyptian Sheikh Ahmad el-Tayeb, grand imam of Al-Azhar, who greeted Pope Francis and wished him “a speedy and thorough recovery, health and wellbeing.”

Both Pope Francis and Sheikh elTayeb were shown on video signing the Interfaith Statement on Climate Change for COP28 that had been drafted and signed by more than two dozen other religious representatives at a global faith leaders’ summit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 6 to 7.

Despite his being in Rome, the pope said he was closely following the work being done at the COP28 in Dubai. †

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ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

NATION & STATE

Catholic Extension honors Puerto Rico archbishop with 2023 New York Spirit of Francis Award Archbishop Roberto O. González Nieves recognized for shepherding Puerto Rico through largest rebuilding project in American Christianity NEW YORK CITY — Catholic Extension honored Archbishop Roberto Octavio González Nieves of San Juan, Puerto Rico, with the 2023 Spirit of Francis Award, which recognizes an individual or group who has made a significant impact on the mission of the Catholic Church in America through service or philanthropy, at their ninth annual New York City Spirit of Francis Award dinner.

Archbishop González Nieves grew up in New York, describes himself as a “child of the Puerto Rican diaspora,” and has faithfully served the Archdiocese of San Juan since 1999. He has been a vital

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CATHOLIC EXTENSION SOCIETY

Catholic Extension Society honored Archbishop Roberto O. González Nieves of Puerto Rico with the 2023 New York Spirit of Francis Award for shepherding Puerto Rico through largest rebuilding project in American Christianity after the island suffered damaged after Hurricane Maria and several earthquakes.

Pictured, left to right, are Christophe Cardinal Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the U.S.; Daniel Cardinal DiNardo; Archbishop Roberto Octavio González; Blase Cardinal Cupich, Archdiocese of Chicago; and Wilton Cardinal Gregory, Archdiocese of Washington.

leader to the Puerto Rican community, shepherding and advocating for Puerto Rico through the long, ongoing recovery following Hurricane Maria, other natural

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disasters, the pandemic and the economic downturn.

Catholic Extension brought together five U.S. cardinals, including Daniel Cardinal DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, to New York to honor the archbishop at the awards dinner, standing in solidarity for his good works and greater awareness of the rebuilding efforts in Puerto Rico. The notables in attendance were Blase Cardinal Cupich of Chicago; Wilton Cardinal Gregory of Washington; Christophe Cardinal Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the U.S.; and Timothy Cardinal Dolan of New York.

Bishop Luis Miranda Rivera of the Diocese of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico, and Bishop Angel Luis Rios Matos, Diocese of Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, were also in attendance.

Cardinal Dolan said of the award dinner, “Tonight, as we celebrate the life and ministry of Archbishop González and Catholic Extension Society’s work of rebuilding the Church in Puerto Rico, we are reminded of the deep-rooted connections that bind us together as one human family and as a people of faith.”

He continued, “We gather in this spirit of friendship, reaffirming our commitment to stand in solidarity with one another, even as we care for the poor, the downtrodden and the vulnerable of our society.”

Father Jack Wall, president of Catholic Extension, said, “Tonight, it is our joy to present the Spirit of Francis Award to one who possesses a passionate heart that beats with a pastor’s love for his people, for the people’s growth and wellbeing, and for the future of the people of God in Puerto Rico. Archbishop Roberto is truly a good shepherd, leading, nurturing, strengthening and giving his very life every day so that God’s people in Puerto Rico may continue to build up vibrant and transformative Catholic faith communities, especially among the poorest of the poor on the island.”

Upon receiving the award, Archbishop González Nieves provided gracious and humble remarks, saying, “The award you are kindly bestowing upon me this evening is an honor that I know I am

unworthy of. I accept it as a call and a grace to renew my vowed service to the Lord, His people and His Church.”

Archbishop González Nieves concluded, “Thank you, Catholic Extension, for financially and spiritually supporting the Church in Puerto Rico since 1905 to the present time.

Extension has helped repair and rebuild damaged church structures and helped us secure the necessary funding, which we otherwise would not have been able to secure. This is an extraordinary expression of ecclesial and missionary solidarity and love.”

Since 2017, Hurricane Maria and a series of earthquakes crippled the island’s economy and infrastructure, damaging more than 600 facilities, many of which include historical, centuries-old Catholic churches, Catholic schools, and mission chapels serving the island’s most remote communities across five Puerto Rican dioceses affected from the natural disasters.

While FEMA was slow in response, the Catholic Church was not. For the past six years, Catholic Extension has organized and led the disaster recovery program for five Catholic dioceses in Puerto Rico, which collectively seek to rebuild facilities across the archipelago of Puerto Rico, making it perhaps the largest rebuilding project in American Christianity.

After six long years, Catholic leaders are optimistic that the goal of rebuilding is within reach. As the majority of damaged Catholic churches and schools are located in San Juan, Archbishop González Nieves has emphasized the importance of reconstruction, saying, “Christians and Catholics need a place to come together, as one, to worship and glorify the Lord. Places are important.

And when a place is destroyed, we must rebuild and begin again.”

The status of the rebuilding efforts in Puerto Rico gives hope, Extension officials said.

To date, $332.2 million of the estimated $400 million in damages have been obligated by FEMA to the Puerto Rican dioceses, and now, the Church in Puerto Rico can begin the long-awaited reparation of facilities and continue its vital mission. Currently, 15 projects, consisting of 58 facilities, are underway.

Catholic Extension’s recovery team also secured an additional $43 million in a competitive grant program, which will enable Catholic schools to receive “404” hazard mitigation funding.

This grant will allow these structures to be rebuilt more resiliently to serve as safe shelters during future disasters, which will ultimately save lives.

Catholic Extension has supported the Catholic Church in Puerto Rico for more than 115 years, dating back to its earliest years as a territory of the U.S. It shares the dream of the bishops, pastors, the faithful and all those served by the Catholic Church — whether they are Catholic or not — that the Catholic Church in Puerto Rico will begin a new chapter in its mission of service. †

texas catholic herald 13

DECEMBER 12, 2023 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

MUNDO CATÓLICO Miss Universo, quien es católica, se gana los corazones de sus compatriotas nicaragüenses oprimidos por el régimen CIUDAD DE MÉXICO (OSV News) — El pueblo nicaragüense salió a las calles después de que Sheynnis Palacios fuera coronada Miss Universo, celebrando el éxito de una compatriota que ha ascendido desde sus humildes orígenes hasta la fama internacional.

Mostraron eufóricas expresiones de orgullo y patriotismo, ondeando la bandera azul y blanca del país, un símbolo considerado subversivo por el régimen sandinista en el poder, que ha impuesto su propia bandera roja y negra. También se arriesgaron a la ira del régimen al congregarse en público, violando las normas contra las reuniones públicas, tan severas que incluso se han prohibido las procesiones en días festivos.

“Ha sido para los nicaragüenses una verdadera explosión de alegría que nada lo pudo impedir”, dijo el padre Edwin Román, un sacerdote nicaragüense ahora exiliado en Miami. “¡Para los nicaragüenses esto es más que un certamen de belleza!”, dijo a OSV News Yader Morazán, un abogado nicaragüense exiliado. “La Miss Universo 2023 se convirtió en un símbolo patrio que encarna la historia de un pueblo pobre, humilde y sufrido, pero trabajador, y con sueños y deseo de superación y libertad”.

Su victoria también supuso un raro momento de alivio para Nicaragua, que estalló en protestas contra el régimen del presidente Daniel Ortega y su esposa, la vicepresidenta Rosario Murillo, en 2018, solo para ser reprimidas violentamente por la policía y los paramilitares. El régimen también ha reprimido la disidencia, ha encarcelado y exiliado a disidentes y ha perseguido a la Iglesia Católica, incluso deteniendo y condenando al obispo Rolando Álvarez de Matagalpa, que sigue tras las rejas. “¡Gracias por hacer brillar en tu belleza el nombre de nuestra patria! ¡Gracias por llevar alegría a nuestro sufrido pueblo!”, escribió en X el obispo auxiliar Silvio José Báez tras el certamen. “¡Gracias por hacernos tener esperanza en un futuro más hermoso para nuestro país!”.

Sin embargo, apenas Palacios ganó la corona en el certamen del 18 de noviembre, el régimen cada vez más totalitario de ese país centroamericano politizó el logro, intentando apoderarse de él.

En un primer momento, el régimen felicitó a Palacios en un comunicado en el que expresaba su “legítimo orgullo y alegría”.

Pero la victoria y las muestras de apoyo pusieron al régimen en un aprieto: los medios de comunicación progubernamentales hablaron mal de Palacios antes del concurso de belleza.

Y más tarde se supo que su nombre aparecía en una lista de pasajeros de una compañía aérea a los que se denegaba la entrada en Nicaragua, una forma de exilio impuesta a los críticos con el régimen.

Según CNN, a la organizadora del concurso de Miss Nicaragua se le denegó posteriormente la entrada en el país.

“Tuvieron que hacer malabarismos para contrarrestar su aversión a la miss

FOTO DE OSV NEWS

Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios señala hacia arriba tras ser coronada Miss Universo durante el 72º certamen de Miss Universo en San Salvador, El Salvador, 18 de noviembre. En una entrevista con ABS-CBN tras su victoria, Palacios, quien es católica, habló de su fe.

y a lo que representa, especialmente para los jóvenes, sin oponerse abiertamente al abrumador sentimiento público de alegría y orgullo que provocó su victoria”, declaró a OSV News Tiziano Breda, investigador del Instituto Italiano de Asuntos Internacionales.

Murillo, la portavoz del régimen, arremetió más tarde contra los críticos, diciendo: “En estos días de una nueva victoria, vemos el aprovechamiento grosero, y la tosca y malvada comunicación terrorista, que pretende convertir un lindo y merecido momento de orgullo y celebración, en golpismo destructivo”, según The Associated Press.

Palacios fue la primera nicaragüense y la primera centroamericana en obtener el título de Miss Universo. Se pensó que su vestido azul y blanco con joyas era un homenaje a la Virgen María, aunque otros dijeron que estaba inspirado en la bandera nacional.

Criada como católica e hija de una madre soltera que migró a Estados Unidos para darle un mejor futuro a su familia, Palacios se licenció en comunicaciones en la Universidad Centroamericana (UCA) de Nicaragua. Ella obtuvo becas y vendió buñuelos para financiar sus estudios en dicha universidad — regentada por jesuitas y recientemente incautada y rebautizada por el régimen.

En una entrevista en inglés con ABSCBN tras su victoria, Palacios habló de su fe. “Soy una persona cristiana, católica”, dijo. “Cuando digo ‘gracias Dios’ es porque esta corona no es mía, es para él.

Es para todas las delegadas y también para mi país y mi familia”.

“Sheynnis, una joven ejemplar de mucho esfuerzo, sacrificio, dedicación por ganar este certamen y otros concursos de belleza, sino de fe cristiana y valores transmitidos en su hogar como ella lo refiere a su mamá y abuela, además la buena preparación académica en colegios y universidades católicos”, dijo el padre Román. †

El ‘Paráclito’ ¿Quién te viene a la mente cuando piensas en una persona que personifica los frutos del Espíritu Santo? Tal vez, es un ser querido que te ama incondicionalmente. O tal vez sea un sacerdote o una monja, que con una sola mirada o sonrisa transmite la paz y la modestia.

Para mí, fue mi mentora a quien llamaremos Rosa. Ella llegó a mi vida durante un tiempo de asignaciones relacionadas con el trabajo y que ahora me doy cuenta de que fue el tiempo perfecto de Dios. Dios no solo sabía que necesitaría su consejo a través de los muchos desafíos y persecuciones, sino que su paz y bondad continua me mantuvieron firme mientras que a veces era un episodio de nervios.

Hubo momentos en que percibimos varias acusaciones falaces y mientras yo reflexionaba con los ojos llorosos incrédulos de tal malicia, Rosa, llena de amor y dulzura, compartía momentos en los que ella misma tuvo experiencias similares y me traía de vuelta a través de un suspiro. A pesar de los efectos de las acusaciones, Rosa siempre compartió un profundo nivel de apoyo que solo puede describirse a través de los atributos del Espíritu Santo.

“En cambio, el fruto del Espíritu es caridad, alegría, paz, comprensión de los demás, generosidad, bondad, fidelidad, mansedumbre y dominio de sí mismo” (Gálatas 5:22).

Los frutos del Espíritu son, de hecho, la producción de lo que el Espíritu Santo forma en nosotros cuando oramos, pedimos y vivimos la voluntad de Dios. Me parece asombroso que la sagrada familia nos haya dado una visión maravillosa de cómo debemos vivir estos atributos.

Cuando se trata de la Reina del Cielo, no podemos ignorar su papel como residencia del Hijo de Dios.

El Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica enseña, “El Espíritu Santo por preparó a María con su gracia. Convenía que fuese “llena de gracia” MELISSA la Madre de Aquel en ÁLVAREZ quien “reside toda la plenitud de la divinidad corporalmente”.

Ella fue concebida sin pecado, por pura gracia, como la más humilde de todas las criaturas, la más capaz de acoger el don inefable del Omnipotente. Con justa razón, el ángel Gabriel la saluda como la “Hija de Sión”: “Alégrate”. Cuando ella lleva en sí al Hijo eterno, hace subir hasta el cielo con su cántico al Padre, en el Espíritu Santo, la acción de gracias de todo el pueblo de Dios y, por tanto, de la Iglesia” (722).

Hoy estamos invitados a dar gracias por la Rosa en tu vida que es enviada desde lo alto para caminar contigo, porque Dios no abandona, y nunca estamos solos.

Estoy sumamente agradecida con Monseñor Dan Scheel, asesor espiritual del Consejo de Mujeres Católicas de la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston, por ser el primero en compartir sobre el Espíritu Santo, lo que provocó un intrigante estudio de exploración a el ‘Paráclito’. † Melissa Álvarez es directora asociada del Ministerio con Personas con Discapacidad de la Oficina de Evangelización y Catequesis.

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.

APOYO PASTORAL A VÍCTIMAS DE ABUSO SEXUAL DEL CLERO En un continuo esfuerzo por facilitar atención pastoral a las victimas de abuso sexual del clero o del personal de la Iglesia, el Cardenal DiNardo gustaría recordar a los fieles de la Arquidiócesis la disponibilidad del Coordinador de Ayuda a Víctimas. Si alguien ha sido victim de abuso sexual del clero o del personal de la Iglesia, se les anima llamar a la Diane Vines al 713-654-5799. Por favor rece por la sanación de las víctimas del abuso y por todos los que sufren de alguna manera.

14 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

WITHIN THE ARTS

Pope: Contemplate greatness of God’s love in simplicity of a crèche VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Whether simple or elaborate, the same every year or constantly changing, a Nativity scene echoes “the beauty of our faith,” Pope Francis wrote.

Marking the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi putting together the first Christmas crèche in a cave in Greccio, Italy, the Vatican publishing house compiled texts by Pope Francis about Nativity scenes and asked him to write a special introduction.

A key message of the Nativity scene is that the mystery of Christmas “loves to hide within what is infinitely small,” the pope wrote in “Christmas at the Nativity,” which was released in English in the U.S.

by New City Press.

“Awe and wonder are the two feelings that move everyone, young and old, before the Nativity scene, which is like a living Gospel overflowing from the pages of Holy Scripture,” he wrote.

The Italian edition of the book went on sale Nov. 21, just two days before the Vatican post office was to begin selling its 2023 Christmas stamps, which also celebrate the staging of a live Nativity scene in Greccio by St. Francis in 1223.

“The Incarnation of Jesus Christ remains the heart of God’s revelation, although it is easily forgotten that its unfolding is so unobtrusive, to the point of going unnoticed,” the pope wrote.

“Littleness, in fact, is the way to encounter God.” “Safeguarding the spirit of the Nativity scene becomes a healthy immersion in the presence of God manifested in the small, sometimes trivial and repetitive, everyday things,” he continued.

“The shepherds in the manger are those who welcome God’s surprise and live in wonder at their encounter with Him, adoring Him: in littleness, they recognize the face of God,” he said. “Humanly, we

CNS PHOTO

Piero Casentini’s painting of St. Francis of Assisi holding the baby Jesus in the cave in Greccio, Italy, where he set up the first Nativity scene 800 years ago while a priest celebrates Mass is the image the Vatican philatelic office chose for its 1.25-euro Christmas stamp for 2023. The painting was done in 2004. Stamp not shown to scale.

are all inclined to seek greatness, but it is a gift to know how to really find it: to know how to find greatness in that smallness that God so loves.”

On Christmas night, the angels lead the shepherds to a baby born in a manger — “not a sign of power, self-sufficiency or pride. No. The eternal God is reduced to a helpless, meek, humble human being.

God lowered Himself so that we could walk with Him and so that He could stand

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beside us, not above and far from us.”

Pope Francis’ introduction to the book also included a special message to young people.

While the night sky is filled with an infinite number of stars, in the Christmas story, “a special star stands out, the one that prompted the Magi to leave their homes and begin a journey, a journey that would lead them where they did not know.”

“It happens the same way in our lives,” the pope wrote. “At a certain moment, some special ‘star’ invites us to make a decision, to make a choice, to begin a journey. We must forcefully ask God to show us that star that draws us toward something more than our habits because

that star will lead us to contemplate Jesus, that child who is born in Bethlehem and who wants our full happiness.”

Pope Francis also noted that the first Nativity scene in Greccio consisted of only a “crib with the hay, the ox and the donkey.”

“Before the Christmas scene, the people who flocked to the place manifested an unspeakable joy, never tasted before,” he said. “Then the priest, at the manger, solemnly celebrated the Eucharist, showing the link between the incarnation of the Son of God and the Eucharist. On that occasion, there were no figurines in Greccio: the Nativity scene was created and experienced by those who were present.” †

MOVIE RATINGS By OSV News A-I – SUITABLE FOR ALL • Journey to Bethlehem (PG) • Wish (PG) A-II – SUITABLE FOR OLDER CHILDREN • Trolls Band Together (PG) A-III – ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS • Five Nights at Freddy’s (PG-13) • Freelance (R) • Killers of the Flower Moon (R) • Priscilla (R) • Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé (NR)

• Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (PG-13) • The Holdovers (R) • The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (PG-13) • The Marvels (PG-13) L – LIMITED MATURE AUDIENCE • Napoleon (R) O – MORALLY OFFENSIVE • Silent Night (R) • Thanksgiving (R) ► For more full movie reviews online, visit www.osvnews.com/category/reviews

texas catholic herald 15

DECEMBER 12, 2023 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE ► FOR SUBMISSION DETAILS AND MORE LISTINGS, VISIT WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.

the99SH@gmail.com.

DEC. 15

CHRISTMAS EVE MASS, 6 p.m., Our Lady of La Vang (12320 Old Foltin Rd., Houston). Daniel Cardinal DiNardo celebrates Christmas Eve Mass with the Vietnamese communities of the Archdiocese.

ADVENT MASS & LUNCHEON, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., St. Mary’s Seminary (9845 Memorial Dr., Houston). The Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston Council of Catholic Women hosts a Mass celebrated by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and luncheon supporting the Seafarers Port Ministry with Port Chaplain Father Jan Kubisa and Spiritual Advisor Monsignor Dan Scheel.

Cost: $25 per person or $240 for reserved table of eight. ghcw.org.

SIMBANG GABI ROSARY & MASS, 6:30 p.m., St. Justin Martyr (13350 Ashford Point Dr., Houston). Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m., Mass at 7 p.m.

DEC. 15-27

WEEKEND SILENT RETREAT, Christian Renewal Center (1515 Hughes Rd., Dickinson). Advent Silent Retreat given by Kim Brown, director of the Christian Renewal Center. Cost: $259. retreatcentercrc.org.

DEC. 16

CHRISTMAS CONCERT, 7 p.m., Sacred Heart (1302 Broadway St., Galveston). A Christmas celebration with the Galveston Community Band. Free admission.

DEC. 16-24

SIMBANG GABI MASS, 5:30 a.m. daily, St. John Neumann (2730 Nelwood Dr., Houston).

Annual Filipino Christmas tradition that consists of nine days of prayer, reflection and worship to prepare for the birth of Jesus.

Daily Mass will be followed by fellowship in the Parish Hall. sjnhouston.org; banz.val124@ gmail.com.

DEC. 22

SIMBANG GABI CULMINATION MASS, 7 p.m., Sts. Simon and Jude (26777 Glen Loch Dr., The Woodlands). Daniel Cardinal DiNardo celebrates the final Mass of the Simbang Gabi Novena of Masses with the Filipino community. Carols begin at 6:30 p.m. fmc-hou. blogspot.com.

LIVE NATIVITY, 3 to 9 p.m., Sacred Heart (109 N Frazier St., Conroe). Live nativity outside the church on the corner with live animals, prayer, Posada (Hispanic Christmas Tradition), music, with light refreshments and kids’ games. Free.

DEC. 24

The Passionists

of Holy Cross Province

Priests ~ Brothers ~ Sisters ~ Laity

Live with Purpose ~ Serve with Passion

JAN. 26-27

AGING CONFERENCE, Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Prince of Peace - St. Andrew Community Center (19222 Tomball Pkwy., Houston). Office of Aging hosts two-day “Nurturing The Roots of Our Communal Tree: A Catholic Conference to Honor and Support Aging,” with presentations and vendors that support pastoral and practical care for families with older adults. Friday’s sessions are geared for parish leaders; Saturday is for older adults and family members. Cost: Free, registration required. View agenda and register at archgh. org/aging.

Passionists proclaim God’s love for the world revealed through the Passion of Jesus Christ.

P E T

to your tomorrow.

P U

S

JAN. 27

GALA, 5 p.m., Cathedral High School (7726 Westview Dr., Houston). Catholic Literary Arts hosts “The Dinner Party” cocktail hour and book signing at 5 p.m. with a 6 p.m. dinner with speakers Louis Markos, Ph.D., and Robert H. Ray. catholicliteraryarts.org/the-dinner-party.

What’s your next step?

www.passionist.org

FEB. 16-18, 2024

WEEKEND MARRIAGE RETREAT, 7 p.m. Friday to 4 p.m. Sunday, Mary Queen (606 Cedarbrook Dr., Friendswood). Worldwide Marriage Encounter is a retreat for married couples who desire a richer, fuller life together. Couples learn the tools needed to keep their marriage strong. $200 application fee. houstonme.org; 281-7340512; alfred.sandra.arteaga@wwme.org.

Fr. John Schork, C.P., Vocation Director | 502.544.7808 | jschork@passionist.org

SUBMIT EVENTS FOR AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE

FEB. 23-25, 2024

WEEKEND RETREAT, 5 p.m. Friday to 11 a.m.

Sunday, Mother of Perpetual Help Retreat Center (3417 W. Little York, Houston).

Marian Servants of the Incarnate Wisdom present “Healing Through the Power of Jesus Christ” with speaker Father Greg Bramlage, founder of the Missionaries of the New Evangelization. Cost: $250 per person. info@ MarianServantsHouston.org.

Around the Archdiocese

E-mail event details to tch@archgh.org for possible inclusion in the Around the Archdiocese calendar or scan the QR code and fill out the form online at www.archgh.org/ata. There is no charge for listings but space is limited.

••• To find additional listings online, visit the website at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.

IN BRIEF

Catholic Charities offers vital mental health support for Fort Bend County residents RICHMOND — While the holiday season is a time of joy and celebration for most, it can trigger seasonal depression for others.

“If people have experienced a recent loss, whether that be of a loved one, a relationship, or a job, the holidays can be mentally tough to navigate,” said Anna M. Gonzales, LMSW, director of counseling services for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston. “Many times, seasonal depression is left untreated because people are not aware of the resources they have at their disposal.”

For residents in Fort Bend County, Catholic Charities offers mental health counseling at the Mamie George Community Center in Richmond, located at 1111 Collins Rd., as well as the United Way Service Center in Stafford, located at 12300 Parc Crest Dr. Individual and family counseling for children and adults is available virtually and in person.

“We never want the inability to pay to stand in someone’s way of getting the assistance they need, which is why we offer our services on a sliding scale,” Gonzales said.

Clients work with licensed counselors, bilingual in English and Spanish, and services are provided regardless of a person’s religious beliefs.

Individuals who seek counseling through Catholic Charities are encouraged to participate in six one-hour sessions to benefit.

To learn more about Catholic Charities’ mental health counseling services in Fort Bend and Harris counties, visit www.catholiccharities.org. †

archgh.org/advent 2023 Liturgical Calendar Third Sunday of Advent December 17 Fourth Sunday of Advent December 24 Nativity of the Lord December 24 and 25 Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph December 30

Solemnity of Mary, Holy Mother of God January 1

16 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

MILESTONES

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • DECEMBER 12, 2023

Do you have a photo you’d like to share? To submit a photo of a place, group or event that you would like to see in the Herald, email it to tch@archgh.org.

AN IRISH CELEBRATION

CHRISTMAS at the CATHEDRALS St. Mary Cathedral Basilica

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS

2011 Church St., Galveston · 409-762-9646 www.holyfamilyg.com

Angie and Michael Marcon, First Lady and President of University of St. Thomas Melynda and Richard Ludwick, and Jeffrey and Kiki Carroll attend the University of St. Thomas Irish Gala on Nov. 17.

UST Irish Gala celebrates Emerald Anniversary

▪ MONDAY, DEC. 25 — CHRISTMAS DAY

HOUSTON — The William J. Flynn Center for Irish Studies at the University of St. ThomasHouston (UST) celebrated the center’s Emerald Anniversary on Nov. 17 at the Houstonian Hotel.

The gala honored Michele Malloy, a longtime University of St. Thomas and Center for Irish Studies supporter. Nearly 300 friends of the center raised more than $330,000 for its 20th anniversary celebration, with monies benefiting the center’s programming, study abroad opportunities and student scholarships. The night also included traditional Irish dancing by the Clann Kelly Dancers from the Clann Kelly School of Irish Dance in Houston. †

12:30 p.m.

English Mass Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, celebrant

Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart 1111 St. Joseph Pkwy., Houston · 713-659-1561 www.sacredhearthouston.org

▪ SUNDAY, DEC. 24 — CHRISTMAS EVE

4 p.m., 6:15 p.m.

8:30 p.m.

English Mass Spanish Mass Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, celebrant

▪ MONDAY, DEC. 25 — CHRISTMAS DAY

For full descriptions of each position, visit www.archgh.org/ employment Catholic Schools Office: Superintendent of Catholic Schools Human Resources: Pension Specialist & Payroll Coordinator

Midnight

9 a.m.

11 a.m.

English Mass Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, celebrant Vietnamese Mass English Mass

Saturday, Feb. 10

Internal Audit: Senior Internal Auditor & Staff Internal Auditor I Parish Accounting Services: Staff Accountant I & Staff Accountant II Finance: Staff Accountant & Manager of General Ledger and Financial Reporting Archives and Records: Digitization Technician Development Department: Development Coordinator Tribunal: Secretary/Notary Office of Aging: Director Family Life Ministry: Associate Director of Innovation Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization: Associate Director Mt. Olivet Cemetery: Family Services Associate Circle Lake Retreat Center: Facility Coordinator

LOCAL CATHOLIC NEWS.

Interested candidates may send a cover letter, with salary requirement, and resume to resume@archgh.org with the job title on the subject line.

WHERE YOU WANT IT. WHEN YOU WANT IT.

*Submissions that do not include the salary requirement will not be moved forward for consideration.

WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/DIGITALEDITIONS