Texas Catholic Herald - Dec. 13, 2022

Making a synodal Advent

BY DANIEL CARDINAL DINARDO Archbishop of Galveston-Houston

Isaiah the Prophet looked from afar and saw the power of God coming. John the Baptist looked near and proclaimed that the “One Who is to Come” was about to appear. The Virgin Mary beheld within her the remarkable and beautiful power of God as she conceived by the Holy Spirit the eternal Son of God.

Isaiah, John the Baptist, and the Virgin Mary: three heavenly partners that accompany us this Advent. They are special synodal persons who illumine a path for us to meet the Savior more deeply and to welcome Him without hesitations.

The synodal way, according to Pope

MINISTRIES

1,000-plus dancers, supporters celebrate Houston’s 50th Virgen de Guadalupe festival

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald

HOUSTON — Mercedes Juarez came to Houston 52 years ago, moving from Mexico to the newly built Galleria area while Post Oak was still mostly pastures.

Only two Catholic churches in Houston offered Mass in Spanish then, so she had to take two city buses, transferring from downtown to another bus and traveling to the East End to attend Our Lady of Guadalupe Church on Navigation and Jensen.

“We as immigrants leave behind our mother, father, brothers and sisters, but we do not leave behind our faith,” Juarez said. She and her husband, Daniel Juarez, were among about 1,000 others celebrating the 50th anniversary

Christmas trees sprout memories, faith

BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald

BAYTOWN — Whether real or artificial, the Christmas tree is an iconic symbol of the Christmas season just like the Nativity scene. With Christmas just weeks away, most church sanctuaries feature the evergreen tree, some towering above the altar and others humbly sprucing up space nearby.

Either way, in the busy rush of tree trimming, light decorating, trip planning, meal prepping and the general hectic pace of the holiday, it’s easy to forget that the Christmas tree has an important purpose of being a prominent fixture in every home.

In Baytown, the Knights of Columbus Council 7206 has posted up at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and

opened a Christmas tree lot for at least 20 years. This year the trees made a 35hour trek, shipped in from a tree farm in Bellevue, Washington in mid-November.

The tree lot sits just off West Baker Road, on a corner of the parish grounds, where two bright white signs encourage passing drivers to “support charity - buy a tree.”

On a recent Monday evening, what had started as a grove of 200 trees of different species — Noble, Douglas and spruce among them — all lined up in rows, had finally dwindled to a little more than a dozen. For at least 20 years, the council has sold Christmas trees at that spot, becoming a local tradition for parish families and community members, according to Eusebio Tijerina, grand knight of Council 7206.

Each wintry-smelling tree sale helped the council raise funds for its charitable

efforts of supporting widows in the community, high school scholarships, seminarian support, the local pregnancy resource center, parish youth events and St. Joseph Catholic School in Baytown,

of Galveston-Houston since 1964

How are we preparing for the coming of the Child Jesus together as a family?

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Eusebio Tijerina, at right, throws a football with his young relative, Hayes Derr, between trees in the Knights of Columbus Council 7206 Christmas Tree Lot at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Baytown.

CNS PHOTO

The Nativity scene and Christmas tree decorate St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Dec. 5. The nearly 100-foot tall white fir tree came from Rosello, a village in the mountains of Italy’s Abruzzo region. The nativity scene is made entirely of wood. Both will remain on display until January 8, 2023, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which marks the end of the Christmas season.

Nearly 9,000 participated in Archdiocesan Synod efforts, according to report

A Shepherd’s Message

By Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

from page 1

Francis, is a way for us to live more harmoniously as the Church, listening to the wide variety of voices, looking at the various shapes of the vision’s others have and allowing them to thrive together. It is a challenging request given to us by the Holy Father.

As your bishop, I would like to make a recommendation for a synodal Advent this year. Recently, the Bishops’ Committee for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs issued a statement remembering the 60th Anniversary of “Nostra Aetate,” a document that was a milestone in proclaiming the deep relationship between the Christian and Jewish faiths. This anniversary is important in its own right and provides a vivid call to “decry all hatred, persecution, displays of antisemitism, directed against Jews at any time and by anyone” (Nostra Aetate, 4).

The bishops’ committee wants us to re-examine our own attitudes as new forms of antisemitism

have appeared in recent years and continue today throughout the world and even in the United States. Any attempts to dehumanize or demonize the Jewish people or Judaism as a religious tradition must be unequivocally condemned.

The three figures I mentioned at the beginning of the article are Jewish. Jesus was Jewish. The relationship between the Church and the Jewish people has continued to grow in depth and mutual appreciation. That is why we, as members of the Church, must be in the forefront of efforts to uphold the dignity of Judaism, support Jewish people, and never be afraid to clearly voice our condemnation of all forms of antisemitic speech and writing.

Advent is also a time of generosity towards others. In this, I ask you to please remember the Ukrainian Greek

Members of IAF/TMO meet Pope Francis

VATICAN — An interfaith delegation of 20 leaders and organizers from the West/ Southwest Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), including members of The Metropolitan Organization (TMO) network of Houston, visited with Pope Francis at the Vatican in October. They met with him to share the collective work of broad-based organizing at a time when the pope is guiding the global Church in a historic Synod listening process.

The Holy Father met with the group in his residence for an engaging 90-minute conversation in Spanish. The encounter had many graced moments about both the joys and the struggles of the work of the organization and the work of the Church, past, present and future.

This invitation to meet was due to the recognition of TMO’s work by local bishops, in particular those involved with the “Recognizing the Stranger” effort, which is dedicated to the formation and leadership

development of immigrant parishioners. TMO’s involvement in supporting the Synod process in multiple dioceses has helped to bring those in the margins to the center of the synodal dialogue.

IAF members noticed how carefully Pope Francis listened, asked questions and engaged with humor. He told the group: “You constantly use the words ‘to see’ and ‘to listen.’ I am impressed that none of you started with any theory. No one said, ‘I read a book, and that interested me.’ The danger is when you intellectualize a problem.”

He stressed the importance of being with people and paying attention to their reality, emphasizing Amor Concreto, love

Catholic Church. A few months ago, I asked for a special collection from our parishes to assist the works of mercy and charity of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in Ukraine on behalf of all people there; Catholic, Orthodox, and others.

The response was overwhelming! Through your generosity, you shared more than one million dollars in assistance. Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Archeparchy of Philadelphia was profuse in his praise of our local Church and the help we provided. So, in this Advent time, I ask you once again to remember the Ukrainian Greek Catholic community.

May your Advent be blessed with the remembrance of Isaiah, John the Baptist, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. May we come to Christ at Christmas full of charity and harmony. †

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Contributors

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concretely in action, saying that he understood the organization’s work as seeing and hearing of injustice in the real lives of people, acting to change the situation, and being changed as a result. He expressed his appreciation for the focus on what the organization is doing rather than complaining about what is not being done or disparaging anyone.

Delegation members also met with leadership in the Dicastery for Integral Human Development, the General Secretariat of the Synod and the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. For more about the Metropolitan Organization of Houston, visit tmohouston.org. †

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Issue date: December 27

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Issue date: January 10, 2023 Deadline: Noon on December 27

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

PHOTO BY RABBI JOHN LINDER

O ANTIPHONS

The 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

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

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 19

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

DECEMBER 20

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

DECEMBER 21

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 23

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

DECEMBER 24

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

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

PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS

Effective Dec. 1

Father Dilip Kumar Soreng, SVD

Pastor – Our Lady of Guadalupe, Baytown

Father Raimundo Ribeiro, SVD

Parochial Vicar – Our Lady of Guadalupe, Baytown

BRIEFS

Archdiocesan Mass celebrates the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

HOUSTON — The Archdiocese will honor the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and remember his call to achieve peace through service to one another at its annual Mass at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023, at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 1111 St. Joseph Pkwy., in Houston. Catholics from all 10 counties of the Archdiocese will

2022 DSF_14x4.625_generic final.pdf 1 1/10/22 1:43 PM

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31

Support over 60 ministries today with a gift to DSF at www.archgh.org/dsf

LOCAL

Concert celebrates lives unable to live

Pope Francis: Jesus ‘comes to illuminate our darkness’

to the parish from as far as Anahauc, some 30 minutes away across Trinity Bay.

as well as other causes.

On that Monday evening, as the sun eked its way down the horizon, a family visited the lot in the hunt for the perfect tree. Scouting around, looking at the remaining trees, all still green and healthy thanks to the efforts by the Knights to water and tend to the trees, they eventually left after not finding “the one.” Still, the council expected to clear the lot by the second weekend of December, as most people finally get around to putting up their Christmas decorations and trimming the tree after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Two other Knights, Alonso Lopez Jr. and Martin Oliveres, were on hand that afternoon to help visitors process the trees they might pick. The Knights saw off the bottom of each tree, so it has a new base to keep itself fresh into the New Year. They also offered local delivery if the buyers lived within 10 to 15 minutes of the parish.

The three Knights agreed that they’ve enjoyed seeing generations of families come through the tree lot every year, with once-young children, years later, bringing children of their own to carry on a tradition of finding the perfect family Christmas tree.

A relative of Tijerina, a young kindergartner, came to spend some time with his elder relative at the tree lot that afternoon. The tree lot became a playground as the youngster darted through and even under the trees that towered over him. Hide and seek became tag, then eventually, a football soon began to fly between the evergreens.

“Catch it with your hands; keep your hands up,” Tijerina would coach the little one down a row of trees. Now sporting a pair of receiver gloves, the young boy eventually started to catch on, but not without diving a time or two when the ball got too close to his face.

Earlier, when the area was full to the brim with trees, a local photographer held a mobile studio for family Christmas portraits at the Knights’ lot. Families would take their photos, then pick a tree to take home.

It’s those memories that encouraged Tijerina to continue their efforts every year, in addition to their desire to serve those in need in the area. Families came

A bit of Santa’s workshop seemed to appear on the church grounds with the arrival of the tree lot every year. As dusk began to set, the colorful Christmas lights strewn around the Knights’ concession stand-turned-tree-workshop glowed brighter and brighter in the darkening sky.

Free branches, leftovers from purchased trees now nestled in nearby homes, offered crafters evergreen pieces for holiday wreaths and swags. The slices of tree trunks could also become comforting tree-scented room fresheners when tossed into a crackling fireplace.

LIGHT ILLUMINATES THE DARK

Thousands of miles away, it’s also beginning to a lot like Christmas at the Vatican, with the arrival of a Christmas tree and nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square.

Pope Francis met with groups from Sutrio and Rosello in Italy, and Guatemala, who donated the nearly 100foot tree and the wood-carved nativity scene. The tree and the creche were officially lit and unveiled on Dec. 5.

“The tree and Nativity display are two signs that continue to charm young and old,” he said. “The tree, with its lights, reminds us of Jesus who comes to illuminate our darkness, our existence often closed up in the shadow of sin, fear and pain. And it suggests to us a further reflection: like trees, people too need roots.”

He told the groups that trees can only grow and “resist the winds that shake it” if they’re rooted in good soil.

“It is important to safeguard the roots, in life as well as faith,” he said. “In this regard, the apostle Paul reminds us of the foundation in which to root our lives in order to remain firm: he says to remain ‘rooted in Jesus Christ’ (Col 2:7). This is what the Christmas tree reminds us of: to be rooted in Jesus Christ.”

He reminded them that “God loves us so much that he shares our humanity and our lives.”

“He never leaves us by ourselves; He is at our side in all circumstances, in joy as in sorrow,” he said. “Even in the worst moments, He is there because He is the Emmanuel, the God with us, the light that illuminates the darkness and the tender presence that accompanies us on our journey.” †

BLESSING OF A CHRISTMAS TREE

The use of the Christmas tree is relatively modern. Its origins are found in the medieval mystery plays that depicted the tree of paradise and the Christmas light or candle that symbolized Christ, the Light of the world.

According to custom, the Christmas tree is set up just before Christmas, on December 25, and may remain in place until the Solemnity of Epiphany, which is January 8. The lights of the tree are illuminated after the prayer of blessing.

In the home the Christmas tree may be blessed by a parent or another family member, in connection with the evening meal on the Vigil of Christmas or at another suitable time on Christmas Day. The blessing follows below:

When all have gathered, a suitable song may be sung.

The leader makes the Sign of the Cross, and all reply “Amen.”The leader may greet those present in the following words:

L/. Let us glorify Christ our light, who brings salvation and peace into our midst, now and forever.

R/. Amen.

In the following or similar words, the leader prepares those present for the blessing: L/. My brothers and sisters, amidst signs and wonders Christ Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea: his birth brings joy to our hearts and enlightenment to our minds. With this tree, decorated and adorned, may we welcome Christ among us; may its lights guide us to the perfect light.

One of those present or the leader reads a text of sacred Scripture, for example, Titus 3:4-7 or Ezekiel 17:22-24.

Reader: The Word of the Lord.

R/. Thanks be to God.

The intercessions are then said. L/. Let us ask God to send his blessing upon us and upon this sign of our faith in the Lord.

R/. Lord, give light to our hearts.

L/. That this tree of lights may remind us

of the tree of glory on which Christ accomplished our salvation, let us pray to the Lord. R/

L/. That the joy of Christmas may always be in our homes, let us pray to the Lord. R/

L/. That the peace of Christ may dwell in our hearts and in the world, let us pray to the Lord. R/

After the intercessions the leader invites all present to say the Lord’s Prayer. The leader says the prayer with hands joined:

L/. Lord our God, we praise you for the light of creation: the sun, the moon, and the stars of the night. We praise you for the light of Israel: the Law, the prophets, and the wisdom of the Scriptures. We praise you for Jesus Christ, your Son: he is Emmanuel, God-with-us, the Prince of Peace, who fills us with the wonder of your love.

Lord God, let your blessing come upon us as we illumine this tree. May the light and cheer it gives be a sign of the joy that fills our hearts. May all who delight in this tree come to the knowledge and joy of salvation. We ask this through Christ our Lord. R/. Amen.

The lights of the tree are then turned on.

The leader concludes the rite by signing himself or herself with the Sign of the Cross and saying:

L/. May the God of glory fill our hearts with peace and joy, now and forever.

R/. Amen.

The blessing concludes with a verse from “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”: O come, thou dayspring, come and cheer our spirits by thine advent here; disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadow put to flight.Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

The premiere for Requiem for the Unborn will be at St. Thomas More Church in Houston.

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Eusebio Tijerina, at left, walks with his young relative, Hayes Derr, as they count how many trees remained on the Knights of Columbus Council 7206 Christmas Tree Lot at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Baytown on Dec. 6.

Our Lady of Guadalupe unites us all

of the Virgen de Guadalupe Festival in downtown Houston on Dec. 4.

In that spirit, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in 1972 first began what has grown to become an Archdiocesan-wide celebration of La Virgen de Guadalupe Festival. The 50-year-old local event now draws more than 1,000 mostly Hispanic families and their dancers dressed in colorful costumes, including feathered regalia and rattling beads. They swirl to indigenous routines dancing to strong drumbeats and haunting calls blown from conch shells.

No matter what the origin, whether traditionally Chichimecas, Aztecas or Mexicas, the dancers are paying respect to Jesus and His mother Mary given as “the Mother of us all,” said Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, praying over and blessing the procession.

The tradition honors the time on Dec. 9, 1531, on a hill of Tepeyac near a village in what is now Mexico City. Juan Diego was stopped on his way to Mass by the appearance of a brown-skinned woman bathed in light and speaking in his indigenous tongue of Nahautl. She requested a church be built on that site to manifest the love of Jesus and hear the petitions of the faithful.

At her bidding, he visited Bishop Juan de Zumarraga, who doubted the story. But Juan Diego saw the Virgin Mary again on Dec. 12, now the official feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. She arranged roses within his cloak picked from the hill where only cactus had been growing before. She told him to present the flowers as a gift to the bishop.

When Juan Diego returned to the bishop and opened his cloak or tilma, the roses tumbled out, and surprisingly, the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe was miraculously traced on the coat, which still exists today on display at the Basilica of Guadalupe on that hill in Mexico City.

Realizing Juan Diego, now canonized as a saint, was telling him the truth, the bishop began constructing the basilica, which led to massive conversions of indigenous to Catholicism. The shrine in Mexico City remains one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world.

Processing in 1988 during some of the first Virgen de Guadalupe Festival celebrations in Houston, a group of Guadalupanas from Holy Family Catholic Church in Missouri City marched the route from Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church on Navigation to the original Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral through downtown Houston. From left to right, Priscilla Reyes, Carmen Tristan, Hilda Ramon, one of the first presidents of Holy Family, Missouri City Guadalupanas, banner carrier John Tristan and Father Ted Valencia, CSB. The group was part of 16 parishes in the procession through downtown Houston that first started in 1972 to celebrate “La Virgen de Guadalupe” on her Feast day, annually, Dec. 12. The 50th-anniversary celebration has grown to more than 1,000 participants from at least 20 parishes today.

As the local celebration has grown, the procession route was changed from the co-cathedral to the George R. Brown Convention Center starting in 1997, said Juarez, who at one time served as president of the Association of Guadalupanas organizing the procession.

Participants celebrated Mass with Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and Bishop Dell’Oro upon arriving at the convention center.

Priscella Marquez, current president of the association, said at least two of the dance groups Sunday had 150 dancers each and about 20 churches participating.

“The celebration for the 50th anniversary was so beautiful to return to downtown and see all the families coming together after COVID-19 caused it to be canceled in 2020,” Marquez said.

Now the association works in conjunction with the Archdiocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry, whose current director, Lazaro Contreras, said the event

epitomizes both the diversity of all the Latin American countries and the unity of the local Hispanic community.

“As the Patroness of the Americas, Our Lady of Guadalupe is a symbol of love and understanding, a unifying presence for all of us in the Americas,” Contreras said.“This event helps families pass on the faith and cultural values to their young.”

Even nine years before the 500th anniversary of the 1531 vision of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Houston Catholics are already planning how to celebrate even bigger and better, coordinating with officials in Mexico City, whose Basilica events are televised worldwide. †

IN BRIEF

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

In Houston, client choice food distributions are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Guadalupe Center, located at 326 S. Jensen St. Appointments required, for appointments, call 713-874-6781 on Mondays and Fridays. Only registered clients will be permitted; no walk-up registrations. The next food fair is set for Saturday, Dec. 10 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

In Galveston, the Beacon of Hope Center, located at 4700 Broadway, Suite F-103, hosts drive-thru distributions on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month, starting at 9 a.m. No appointments required. Call 409-7622064 for more information.

In Fort Bend County, The Mamie George Community Center, located at 1111 Collins Rd. in Richmond, hosts both 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 p.m. to 2 p.m.; Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Center also hosts monthly food fairs, with the next one set for Saturday, Dec. 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. For help, call 281-202-6200.

For more, visit www. catholiccharities.org/food or call the Catholic Charities COVID Assistance Line at 713-874-6521. †

PASTORAL SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF CLERGY SEXUAL ABUSE

In a continuing effort to provide pastoral care to victims of sexual abuse by clergy or Church personnel, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo would like to remind the faithful of the Archdiocese of the availability of the Victims Assistance Coordinator. Anyone who has been the victim of sexual abuse by clergy or Church personnel is encouraged to call Diane Vines at 713-654-5799. Please keep in daily prayers the healing of victims of abuse and all who suffer in any way.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN TRISTAN

Catechizing and evangelizing the young Church into lifelong disciples of Christ

BY KERRY MCGUIRE Herald Correspondent

HOUSTON — An integral part of the Catholic Church’s vocation and mission in history has been to form young people into lifelong disciples of Christ.

The first ministry of the Archdiocese oriented toward middle school and high school-aged Catholic youth was the Catholic Youth Organization, established in 1937. In 1963, its name changed to the Office of Youth Ministry (OYM), and finally, in 2012, the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization (OACE).

According to the director of OACE, Tim Colbert, its current name better reflects the office’s renewed commitment to effectively form adolescents into lifelong disciples in the Catholic tradition in addition to providing social, fellowship and recreational opportunities. The ministry provides a comprehensive approach to youth ministry through leadership, formation and resources to approximately 3,400 adolescents, parish youth leadership and parents annually. Colbert said several of the ministry’s programs and services have been modeled by parishes and diocesan offices all over the U.S. because of their proven success.

This includes one of OACE’s events that celebrated its 67th year this past July, the Archdiocesan Youth Conference (AYC). The summer conference has grown from several hundred high-school youth with formal dances and diocesan CYO elections to now having an average of 2,400 to 2,800 participants with a concentration on formation, worship, discipleship and fellowship. The only break in tradition was the summer of 2020 when social distancing measures required the event to go online.

Despite obstacles, Colbert said AYC continues to be the largest gathering of young people sponsored, planned and implemented by OACE, and is one of the best opportunities to evangelize the young Church today. James Carrasco, currently the director of youth ministry at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Lake Jackson, agrees. While attending AYC in high school, he personally witnessed the tremendous impact the conference can have on converting young minds and hearts to Christ.

During the event, Carrasco said he felt the call from the Holy Spirit to become a youth minister. He believes that because of this experience, his faith began to grow by leaps and bounds. Shortly after graduating from college, he accepted the call and became a youth minister,

and was able to take his first group of teens to AYC. He credits the mentorship and encouragement of OACE staff for equipping him for this important fulltime career in youth ministry. “OACE has helped me continue my formation in youth ministry through Professional Growth Days, the Sanctus Renovo Retreat, and Youth Ministry Connect gatherings,” Carrasco said. “I am most grateful for the ministry’s ongoing accompaniment with me through all the blessings and the challenges that are part of this beautiful vocation. Thanks to the powerful youth conference I experienced as a teenager and the steadfast professional support of OACE, I have now coordinated and witnessed the Confirmation of more than 1,300 young people — what an incredible blessing!”

OACE is one of 64 ministries supported by the Diocesan Services Fund (DSF). Colbert said the financial support of the Faithful through DSF makes it possible for OACE to continue its ministry.

“The cost of providing AYC, for example, will soon be beyond the reach of many parishes,” said Colbert. “We are in urgent need of funds like DSF to underwrite the conference in order to continue to provide this life-changing experience for adolescents.”

Carrasco agrees that DSF support improves the quality of youth ministry programs available from OACE across the Archdiocese.

“I support DSF because the funding makes it possible for OACE to continue bringing in absolute top-notch youth ministry professionals from all over the country to help with our formation and spiritual growth,” said Carrasco. “This financial support also makes it possible for OACE to provide world-class youth conference experiences like AYC for our young people at a cost that is within the

reach of every parish.”

Colbert said DSF also supports the training and important work of the Archdiocesan Youth Council, which was first commissioned in July 1994 by the late Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza. Twenty-eight years later, the commission still consists of highschool representatives from parishes and Catholic schools in the GalvestonHouston area that meet together to ensure that the voices of the young Church continue to be heard and respected by Archdiocesan leadership.

This includes an annual gathering with Daniel Cardinal DiNardo. Colbert said several other dioceses across the nation have modeled their own councils in response to the Archdiocesan Youth Council’s success.

“Another key responsibility of OACE is to ensure that parish staff and volunteers have the knowledge and skills to assist

The 2022 Diocesan Services Fund theme draws from 1 Corinthians: “All For the Glory of God.” DSF operates in the Archdiocese of

the young Church in becoming lifelong disciples within a safe environment,” said Colbert. “DSF funding allows us to have the technology and equipment to provide training and resources that are available 24/7 in a virtual setting.”

If more DSF monies were available, Colbert said OACE would implement several new initiatives that would better serve the growing and ever-changing needs of youth across the Archdiocese.

One example is expanding OACE’s reach to the Spanish-speaking community, which includes the development of retreats for Spanishspeaking youth, including a one-day

Galveston-Houston each year to help the Church carry out the ministries of teaching and sanctifying.

brings the needed financial resources to carry out 60-plus ministries.

HERALD FILE PHOTO BY SEAN O’DRISCOLL

Teens hold hands in prayer during the 2022 Archdiocesan Youth Conference, one of several major events coordinated by the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization.

EDUCATION

IN BRIEF

School chorale group sings at Co-Cathedral

HOUSTON — The voices of the St. John Paul II Chorale, a group of young ladies from St. John Paul II Catholic School in Houston, floated through the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in downtown Houston on Nov. 27.

The choir sang Vespers (Evening Prayer) at with the Co-Cathedral Scola, a quartet of professional adult vocalists who sing for special events at the Co-Cathedral. Vespers is an evening prayer in Gregorian Chant form, singing the psalms of the Old Testament, and was directed by the Co-Cathedral assistant director, Patrick Schneider.

Immediately following Vespers, the chorale sang “Pie’ Jesu” by Mary Lynne Lightfoot as a prelude for Mass. The chorale then sang the entire First Sunday of Advent Mass with the Scola. The chorale sang many Latin pieces and was featured in singing the communion meditation song, “O Come Divine Messiah.” The Scola joined in and sang tenor and bass under the Chorale melody and harmony lines.

Daniel Cardinal DiNardo was the main celebrant as the Mass wasn’t only to celebrate the First Sunday of Advent, but it was also Confirmation. He confirmed six teen Confirmandi during the Mass. †

‘Pattern of Hope’ celebrates, helps Catholic schools

HOUSTON — Since the beginning of Catholic education in the Archdiocese, well over a century ago, Catholic schools in the greater Houston area have kept at the heart of their mission the importance of providing a quality, faith-based education and keeping it accessible, affordable and available to all who seek it.

Held at the Junior League of Houston on Dec. 2, the “A Pattern of Hope” Luncheon benefiting Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese, Superintendent Dr. Debra Haney and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, celebrated the education of mind, heart and spirit at Catholic schools.

Katie Prejean McGrady, an awardwinning author, international speaker, podcaster and host of “The Katie McGrady Show,” a daily radio program on The Catholic Channel on Sirius XM 129, was the event’s keynote speaker.

The luncheon, which raised funds to support educational technology and tuition assistance in Catholic grade schools, highlights the pattern of positive change that comes from a Catholic education. A transformative education has become a pattern associated with Catholic schools as much as the patterned plaid found on Catholic school uniforms.

During her keynote, McGrady recalled her own experience as a student in Catholic schools, where a teacher and a deacon helped shaped her education with guidance and help.

“We’re so concerned about ... how am I going to impact the world — and sometimes our impact is by giving people

YOUTH, from page 7

retreat for Quinceañera. In addition, other direct outreach programs and the creation of a fully bilingual website and other resources would be possible.

“Bishop Italo (Dell’Oro) has requested that we develop retreats for Spanishspeaking youth,” said Colbert. “In many instances, the Spanish-speaking programs are run by volunteers who are not trained in effective retreat ministry. Also, because many of these parishes do not have the resources to afford a retreat center and retreat leaders, this is the most immediate need.”

Colbert said the office also would like to complete the development of an online, multi-tiered formation resource for youth ministers designed to provide access to immediate knowledge and skills

the opportunity to do precisely what they’re called to do,” she said. Catholic Schools are places where impacts can be invested “in the transformation of people’s hearts, minds, and souls and there’s truly nothing better.” She continued, “As a product of Catholic education, as an educator who spent time in a Catholic school, as the mom who writes the tuition check every month and rejoices when it hits my bank account because I know it’s going to precisely the thing that my child needs, I thank you because this has an eternal effect.”

“A Pattern of Hope” event emcees Elissa Rivas, KTRK ABC-13, and Chris Stipes, director of media relations for the University of Houston, shared what the Catholic school experience has meant to their own family.

Haney and the staff of the Archdiocesan Catholic Schools Office welcomed attendees and to share the good news in Catholic education. Dr. Haney said, “I am so grateful for the many people that have supported ‘A Pattern of Hope’ for our Catholic schools. It is a beautiful event that brings together the heart of what our Catholic schools are all about — the collaboration of parents, students and educators working together to support the mission of Catholic education, bringing souls to heaven and preparing them for college and careers.”

For more information on ‘A Pattern of Hope’ or to make an end-of-year gift in support of Catholic schools, visit: ChooseCatholicSchools.org/give. †

in a plethora of interest areas without committing to a multi-year certification program.

He said OACE also is in the process of creating task forces to assess the current needs of adolescents in middle-school, as well as CatholicYouth of African Descent, to develop programs and services that better address their needs and provide expanded outreach to these groups.

To learn more about OACE and its programs and services, visit archgh. org/oace. To donate to DSF and support OACE and 63 other ministries, go to archgh.org/dsf. DSF supports 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. †

PHOTO COURTESY OF UP IN THE AIR FILMS, LLC

(Left to right): Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dr. Debra Haney, emcees Chris Stipes and Elissa Rivas keynote speaker Katie Prejean McGrady and GalvestonHouston Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, attend the ‘Pattern of Hope’ luncheon on Dec. 2 at the Junior League of Houston.

JOURNEYING TOGETHER

A SYNODAL SYNTHESIS REPORT FOR THE ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON

HOUSTON A synodal Church is the path along which the People of God walk or journey together to announce the Good News of Jesus Christ. The Archdiocese collected 385 synodal listening session reports and 502 online contributions from October 2021 to April 2022, totaling 515,000 words from 8,900 participants.

The purpose was for the faithful to reflect upon Pope Francis’s call for the Church to invoke the Holy Spirit to guide Her into a deeper communion and participation in life in Christ and commitment to the Church’s evangelizing mission.

The following synthesis includes the processes and milestones, turning points, and spiritual dimensions that were present. It is followed by a summary of reflections and direct quotes from participants and concludes with pathways that may be open for the Church in its quest to journey together as a synodal Church moving forward.

THE PROCESS

The process officially began in October 2021, with Mass celebrated by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, followed by training sessions in English, Spanish and Vietnamese for key facilitators. This included a listening session experience so facilitators could personally encounter the fruits of the sessions, as well as train small group leaders.

The facilitators and faithful that participated in the sessions included parishes, Catholic schools, religious congregations, movements and other organizations, prayer groups, and affiliated ministries, with 86% of all 146 parishes represented. All 50 elementary schools also conducted listening sessions with their teachers and staff.

According to Cardinal DiNardo, the responses indicate the uniqueness in diversity and expression of cultures found in the local Church, which is in the fourth-largest city in the U.S., with more than 1.7 million Catholics. Participant demographics and background information are provided in the Appendix of this report.

Important milestones and turning points were recounted by leadership and facilitators involved in the listening sessions. Close to 800 facilitators were trained between November 2021 and March 2022. To measure the effectiveness of the training sessions early in the process, 98% of the newly trained facilitators responded that they were extremely happy with this part of the implementation.

They also were instrumental in energizing the faithful at the parish level, which gained momentum in participation in January through April of 2022.

These groups included consecrated virgins and religious congregations, as well as clergy from the 13 Deaneries.

In addition to parishes and Catholic schools, other groups included the seminary, Magnificat House serving the

ONLINE RESOURCES

For more information and additional resources about the Synod process in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, visit the official online website at WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/SYNOD

homeless population, Young Adult & Campus Ministry, Parish Catechetical Leaders, Family Life Ministries, Vietnamese Catechists, families with persons of disabilities, Knights of Columbus, coordinators of the Hispanic Ministry, Office of Hispanic Ministry, Archdiocesan Guadalupana Association, and Renovación Carismática Católica.

Facilitators felt some participants initially were curious and unfamiliar

with the synodal process but were willing to listen and became more engaged once they were introduced to the concept.

They also were more open when they recognized the faces leading the sessions (e.g., clergy, parish staff, councils, lay ministers, etc.).

“Once people understood what was being asked, they freely said what was on their hearts,” said Facilitator Daphine Sands.

If facilitators were unsure of their pastor’s role in this process, they were reminded that the priests participated in listening sessions themselves, invited the trained facilitators to assist with the process, and gave assurance that the results would be sent to the Archdiocese to be included in this report.

Some were excited at the opportunity

PHOTOS BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Above, a stained glass window of the Paschal Lamb is seen at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Waverly. Below, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo greets a parishioner following a Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Houston.

to be involved in the process, even surprised that the laity was invited to the table.

According to Sands, this brought them inexplicable joy and a feeling of responsibility for their discipleship: “The very thought that the product of a session they facilitated might indeed make it all the way to Rome gave them reason to pause and reflect on the wonders of God (and to call on the Holy Spirit).”

Facilitators felt, in general, there was a new understanding and acceptance of the synodal listening process as a way to have influence over decision-makers in the Church hierarchy.

Facilitators also witnessed the spiritual dimensions as an outcome of the process that included peace, joy, and a sense of hope. While not everyone had the same idea on how to resolve their concerns, they felt that their Church heard them and would like to see this process continue. If done the right way, each synodal listening session yields fruits by itself.

A synthesis of responses from the listening sessions and survey follow, which has been edited for space and clarity.

1. JOINT EXPERIENCES

Examples of how respondents drew on joint experiences where evangelization took place involved main elements or functions of the Church: Service, Word, Worship, and Community (in no specific order).

In addition, two “cross-over” areas were Leadership and Stewardship. These elements of the Church parallel with Luke 24:13-43, the Road to Emmaus.

Service is how the Church loves neighbor by seeing Jesus in every person and meeting his/her basic needs, such as Corporal Works and Spiritual Works of Mercy. Service is a specific way to form community among those serving and those being served (Lk 24:13-24).

Word includes learning scripture and faith formation to gain knowledge, understanding, and wisdom of the Good News, as well as ways to spiritually grow closer to Christ. Participants noted that consistency in formation and positive personal encounters are important for the Church to journey together within and beyond the church walls (Lk 24:25-27).

Worship includes the Mass, Sacraments, Eucharistic Adoration, and other forms of prayer and expressions of love for God (Lk 24:30-32). Participants noted that these are crucial to the life and mission of the Church, which were greatly missed during

the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Community was expressed in two distinct ways and often overlapped with the other elements. First, community is formed when members of the Body of Christ come together as one unified apostolic Church, and secondly, community brings a sense of fellowship and belonging with others. Both draw the faithful together in mutual support, activity, celebration, and growth that can last a lifetime (Lk 24:36-43).

Leadership is the shared organizational roles of clergy, parish staff, lay ministers, and others that help bring people closer to Christ. Respondents associated leadership as a real connection between priests and the people, which makes leaders of the Church more accessible.

Stewardship is when a person receives gifts from God and freely gives these gifts back to others for the benefit of the Church without expecting anything in return. This includes time, talent, charisms, and resources, and is important for leaders to recognize when ministering with/to others.

II. SHARED RESPONSIBILITY TO PROCLAIM THE GOSPEL

In the synodal Church, all members, clergy and lay alike, are called to participate in proclaiming the Good News, being a witness to God’s love, and remaining open to mission. As some respondents stated, “We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ,” “follow in the apostles’ footsteps,” and “personally share the message of the Gospel by living as Christ lived, by how we treat one another, through devotions and prayer, and most of all, through serving others in ministry or charity.”

Additional responses about proclaiming Jesus through the elements of the Church follow:

Service: “Through practical works of mercy—feeding and giving drink; clothing and sheltering,” and “Ministering to the homebound and the sick and participating in outreach programs in the community.”

Word: “Learning our faith better so as to be more comfortable/bold in sharing it,” and “Trying to ‘walk the walk’ with Jesus, not just ‘talk the talk’ of the Scripture.”

Worship: “By sharing the belief and devotion to the Eucharist. Sharing the homily with family,” and “Manifests a communal witness and proclamation of the faith.”

Community: “We found that as a community we are a supportive, strong, prayerful group of teachers who care deeply about our faith,” and “Stay focused in the church, find ways for (youth) to get involved, and encourage community.”

Stewardship: “Through their participation in various ministries and their personal contributions of their time and talent,” and “We show this through service to local, parish and global communities through projects, prayer, and offering time and talents to serve our Lord.”

Leadership: “The Holy Spirit is guiding us to grow in not only accepting everyone who comes to the parish, but educating and equipping them to be part of the mission of the parish,” and “Leaders are companions on the journey; shared leadership among clergy and laity; vision, discernment, planning, and empowerment; evaluation in light of the mission.”

III. FOSTERING A SENSE OF INCLUSION AS CHURCH

Responses indicated a path of inclusion through personal encounters where individuals felt welcomed, valued, or taken care of as part of the Church community. Inclusivity fosters a culture that lives out Jesus’ Great Commandment (Lk 10:27) and Great Commission (Mt 28:19; Mk 16:1516). The journey of the respondents where they felt included in their communities was marked by three pivotal movements, which were evident in all cultural descents and age groups. This process of spiritual growth resembles John 1:38-42 where people want to know Christ’s true nature.

Works of mercy

People on the Peripheries are not a part of parish life or active in their faith and should be encouraged to come into the Church.

Many participants reported they were recipients of care from their community, which proves that inclusion is real and goes beyond an elevated idea or intention.

From the Peripheries, people experiencing positive care from Church members marked a pivotal moment in

bringing them into the community. They were warmly greeted and welcomed, and invited to an event or faith formation opportunity. Church leadership sets the tone for these encounters and should encourage these positive interactions that lead to higher participation and engagement within this group (Jn 1:38).

Immersive encounter through retreats

The second movement involved those living in the Center of parish life that grew spiritually closer to Christ through an immersive encounter with God in retreat experiences. These are people that choose to live a life in Christ as his disciples.

They seek spiritual growth and serving opportunities, support the Church financially, and regularly celebrate the Mass and Sacraments. These respondents said retreats specifically provided profound immersive experiences that gave them opportunities to encounter God directly and through other believers, which ignited or rekindled their faith.

As they became more attuned to the voice of God, they received more consolation from having a space to gather together for fellowship, faith formation, prayer, discernment, and worship. This ongoing positive interaction with their community provided feelings of belonging, appreciation, and being heard and seen (Jn 1:39).

Answering the higher call to serve

The third movement involves those in the Center that chose to become missionary disciples or apostles by accepting Jesus’ invitation to answer the call to serve those in the Peripheries. They felt they have been heard by the Church and enlightened by God’s Word as they work with the Holy Spirit to answer their higher call to serve others in love.

Recognition and acceptance of their specific call drives a sensation of appreciation and fulfillment as a contributing member of the community. No longer are they affiliated members, but active members that live a life in Christ as Church to lead others to him.

When accompanied by a positive team spirit, listening skills, and opportunities to serve and grow, they may effectively reach out to the Peripheries with a loving invitation to participate fully in the life of the Church. This allows a cycle of spiritual growth where those in the Center are renewed and build up the Kingdom by bringing others to Jesus and into community (Jn 1:40-42).

Father Wayne Wilkerson celebrates the Sacrament of Confirmation during a Divine Mercy Sunday Mass of Confirmation in Houston.

Parishioners at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart pray during a recent Mass.

IV. EXPERIENCES OF EXCLUSION

Patterns of exclusion were indicated, which prevented, limited or degraded full participation and communion in the life of the Church.

Exclusion is contrary to the teachings and examples of Christ, who consistently included people that were excluded from their communities. Exclusion comes from unfruitful interactions between people and from organizational limitations. The people that sit in the power structure of the institutional Church especially must develop stronger skills of listening, learning, and acting. Clergy, staff, and lay ministry leaders control the assets and resources of the Church and may inadvertently exclude people. Normally, this is associated with excluding people on the Peripheries, but it equally applies to some groups in the Center.

Responses included five distinct exclusion patterns, including overwhelming testimonies from marginalized Catholics and people leaving the faith. The first four patterns are exclusions experienced through person-to-person interactions and the fifth involves limitations of the Catholic Church as a large human organization. All five patterns of exclusion are found in the Gospel of John, Chapter 9, after Jesus heals the man born blind.

Indifference

Community members may be indifferent to others, which is a sense of abandonment that deals with differences by pretending they don’t exist, keeping a distance, and diverting attention to other problems.

Some forms include intentionally relating to others superficially, neglecting their needs, ignoring their attempts to contribute, and suspending the effort for interaction (Jn 9:8-9).

Assimilation

Assimilation is a forced substitution of values for others of seemingly equal or lesser worth, also accompanied by the marginalization of those that refuse.

Oftentimes, this includes eliminating the identity of others by imposing one’s ways and dismissing their perspectives and ideals. There also could be evidence of cultural obliteration, language discrimination, bullying, and unaccompanied suppression of popular religiosity (Jn 9:13-17).

Subjugation

When authorities and leaders impose

rules and subjugate, a pattern of exclusion may occur that designates others as inferior in some way for later abuse or exploitation.

Specific forms manifest in practices of discrimination using race, gender, family structure, disability, or other demographic markers, and may include misinterpreting the faith and misuse of the Liturgy and Sacraments. In many cases, this is not a simple lack of understanding of ecclesial law (Jn 9:18-27).

Examples: Some participants questioned the validity of these laws, such as a person that could not receive the Eucharist.

Organizational Limitations

Lack of management skills to cope effectively with challenges and diversity often involve administrative deficiencies. This includes inappropriate leadership and management practices, team dysfunctions, insufficient communications, and limited capacity to serve the community. This also may lead to political, economic, or group agendas creeping into the faith and distorting the mission of the Church (Jn 9:28-33).

Expulsion

This is the intentional and open exile of someone from the community or the affirmation they do not belong.

A rationale for violence, stereotyping, or scapegoating may be created. A milder form of expulsion occurs through an unwelcoming atmosphere at the parish, ministry or group level (Jn 9:34).

V. COMPANIONS ON THE JOURNEY

When asked about who walks with them “side by side” as Church, some examples included the following:

“Good spiritual companions help you get to heaven. This group has had good spiritual spouses, friends, parents, siblings, priests in parishes, and religious communities who have helped them on their spiritual journey. This support has helped them to become better members of their community.”

Another response said: “Even when there are minor frictions, all seem to have

the same shared faith and same goal of salvation for ourselves and for everyone else.”

Specific groups mentioned that are companions on the journey with respondents were the domestic Church, catechists and teachers, ministry organizers and leaders, retreat teams, Knights of Columbus, various Liturgical ministers, and youth group and FOCUS missionaries.

Responses from those that felt excluded were children, working parents that need childcare to participate, families not enrolled in the parish school, those scared off by or unable to attend a “mandatory meeting” or training schedules, those afraid to try to contact a priest or ministry leader, and those that do not know the appropriate Church contact to begin a conversation.

Other groups that felt excluded were ethnic and minority groups, people divorced and remarried, individuals of the LGBTQ community, persons with disabilities, mentally ill, and some women.

As Church, those that are excluded must be identified and invited into relationship with Jesus and his community.

Suggestions included an ongoing need for a “match service” between individuals and ministries, more frequent ministry fairs and events, and additional opportunities to help young adults discern their vocation, socialize, and meet potential marriage partners in the faith.

Another key finding was that the Church must share the truth as an open space for all people. As stated in the Experiences of Exclusions section, many people might be averted from the Church because they feel as if they are not welcome or do not trust leadership.

Regardless of their past or stigmas, they need to feel the Church is transparent, has open arms, and invites all people to experience the love of the Lord.

It was noted that faith formation of Catholics is usually through books, videos, classes, programs, and events, which cannot replace companionship and one-onone interactions. Many respondents said that during COVID-19, they experienced feelings of isolation and loneliness, which were evident across all respondent groups.

Confirmation at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church

Galveston-Houston Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, smiles while preaching a homily during a Mass of Confirmation at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart on Jan. 9.

Flowers are seen surrounding a mosaic of Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Juan Diego Catholic Church in Houston.

When members of the Church serve and journey with others in love, they help them to spiritually grow into mature disciples themselves, which increases the presence of God’s love in the Church (Heb 10:24-25).

V1. COMING HOME

Most respondents never had been away from the Church, but those that had were often brought back by a major life event, such as a Sacrament (e.g., baptism, wedding or funeral).

Others came back out of their desire to receive Holy Communion, celebrate the Mass, and/or experience community.

Others spoke about major family issues and tragedies as reasons to come back to the Church for encouragement and support.

Others referred to “Goodness, Truth, and Beauty”, such as the Church’s rich traditions, music, and architecture. Some parents said their children’s involvement in the Church, including social programs, attending Mass, and Sacramental preparation, brought them back and encouraged them to get involved.

VII. THE HOLY SPIRIT AT WORK

Jesus gave the Church two “Greats,” the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. If they are lived out consistently by the Church, people may experience the work of the Holy Spirit, hear his voice, and use spiritual gifts to do good works.

Voice of the Holy Spirit

Respondents generally wanted to see the good works that the Spirit is doing in their lives and that of the Church, and for this to be communicated more widely and deeply throughout the Archdiocese. The voice of the Holy Spirit was present in the following elements of the Church.

Service

A frequent theme was the experience of the Holy Spirit through service, especially to the poor. People rightly connected service to the poor with serving Christ. The Holy Spirit constantly nudges people out of their comfort zones to do more for the betterment of the Church through acts of service.

Sacred Scripture

Through sacred Scripture, the Holy Spirit brings together those that understand and those that need to understand, and there is a feeling of accompaniment on the journey ahead.

Worship

The Holy Spirit was experienced through Mass and Sacraments. Although not a generalized aspiration from the community, a crafted proposition regarding the Traditional Latin Mass from a focused group was provided several times. Additional respondents were authentically drawn to reverent and beautiful liturgies.

Community

Another frequent theme was the presence of the Holy Spirit in community, which appeared to be more prominent in association with the youth, both in sharing and receiving the faith. In particular, some Catholic school teachers emphasized the need to evangelize as a primary mission of the teacher.

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Respondents said many gifts of the Holy Spirit have been used for the

betterment of the Church, as well as the detriment of the Church when such gifts were not being offered.

In general, the use of gifts referred to natural gifts or skills, not charisms, which are given by the Holy Spirit to produce a result beyond ordinary human capacity. This may reflect a lack of awareness of charisms and provides an opportunity to educate the faithful about their impact and importance to the Church.

Hospitality and service were the most commonly mentioned gifts.

Hospitality refers to offering people a welcoming, comfortable environment. As mentioned in other parts of the synthesis, much of the negative feedback was around feeling unwelcomed or excluded in a variety of contexts.

In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus commanded his followers to welcome the stranger, so hospitality has both practical and spiritual applicability. Service was mentioned more often in the positive sense, although there were some negative comments about the Church only serving when convenient or financially beneficial, noting missed opportunities following Hurricane Harvey and the pandemic.

Responses included the positive impact that the gifts of mercy and healing had on their lives, which included physical, emotional, or spiritual experiences.

Some also commented on the evangelizing impact of music, craftsmanship, sacred art, and architecture as a way to bring people back to the Church. Craftsmanship includes new media and social media.

The gifts associated with leadership, such as pastoring, administration, and

MORE INFORMATION

that believe (Mt 28:19) to bring forth the Kingdom of God (Mt 6:38).

One pathway to consider is proactively listening to the faithful through additional listening sessions held throughout the Archdiocese, which opens doors to those that suffer from various forms of exclusion and gives a voice to those in the Center. Many respondents expressed gratitude to the Synod of Bishops for giving them this opportunity to be heard.

Many felt like it was an invitation into fuller communion in the life of the Church. If this path is taken, there are key points to consider. As a respondent said, “This ‘Synod’ listening experience is a great opportunity to express what I have felt for a long time.

I only hope that someone pays attention.” If this process is to be taken seriously moving forward, many respondents indicated that information about how and when to participate must be communicated more widely and often. In addition, using the synodal listening process to assist parish councils in their future pastoral planning efforts may be considered to address the needs and interests of their specific community.

To address areas of concern regarding the lack of strong organizational leadership skills in the Church, learning from proven management practices to overcome multiple organizational dysfunctions that recurrently expel people from the faith should be considered.

Through different forms of exclusion, community members and leaders betray the essence of Christianity. Finding ways to unite the Church in its efforts to become more inclusive and to reach out to all people that need the love of Jesus is an opportunity.

apostleship, were mentioned both as present and absent in different contexts. Positive comments reflected the good impact leaders can make, whether clergy or lay.

Several people commented on a greater need for leaders to be better stewards of the spiritual gifts of those they lead. While such feedback spanned different age groups, it was perhaps most impactful for the youth, including the need to offer more spiritual-growth opportunities following Confirmation.

VIII. PATHWAYS TO CONSIDER MOVING FORWARD

Due to recent and decades-old scandals, natural disasters, such as Hurricane Harvey in 2017, and the global pandemic in 2020-2021, the heavy impact they have had on the local Church was evident in the responses of the synodal listening sessions and survey.

Many respondents were grateful to the clergy, parish staff, and lay ministers for their continued service and commitment during these times. They also more deeply cherished the Mass, Sacraments, Adoration, and opportunities to serve and be in fellowship with their faith community.

While it was evident that the Holy Spirit has already been at work in the Archdiocese, there are additional opportunities that may be explored to help the Church become more synodal as called by Pope Francis through this listening process.

It is important to recall when moving forward that all believers, clergy, religious, and lay alike play important roles in living out Jesus’ Great Commandment and Great Commission for his Church. This is especially important to build up the Church on Christ’s foundation of love (Eph 4:11-16), evangelize the unchurched (Mk 16:15), and make disciples of those

One respondent asked, “How can we help bridge this gap to help others along their journey in whatever struggles they are facing? We are the body of Christ and all parts are essential.”

Additional positive steps from leaders may include learning how to discover new and better ways the faithful can be more responsive to the guidance and use of their spiritual gifts and resources for the betterment of the Church.

An example includes encouraging youth to use their gifts to serve other youth through new media. There also is an indication of a need for more spiritualgrowth opportunities for the faithful of all ages. As each person spiritually grows closer to Christ and moves into apostleship, growth in God’s love becomes more present in the Church, and it will move forward in its mission of love.

There was an expressed need for clarity of vision from the bishops to the pastors and then to parishioners, which may involve greater presence of clergy outside of Mass.

All Church leaders should be in a position to assist the faithful with ways to discern together their pathways forward, especially in the face of trial and contradictions. With a sense of unity, all members of the Body of Christ can be a part of the Church’s evangelizing mission. As one respondent said, “We are all responsible for what happens in this community. We depend on each other to survive well and raise each other up.”

Efforts for renewal will only come to fruition through the dedication and commitment of Church leaders and willing servants focused on creating inclusive, prayerful, and welcoming environments that promote shared experiences with God’s love.

May the Church move prayerfully forward in love through docile and obedient hearts attuned to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. †

A wood carving of Jesus meeting with Sts. Mary, Martha and Lazarus is seen at St. Martha Catholic Church in Kingwood.

YOUTH

It can be challenging to prepare for the coming of Christ Jesus during the Advent Season. It was only a few weeks ago that Black Friday was being marketed. And every year, it seems as if the Christmas lights and decorations at my nearby mall are coming up earlier.

As Catholics, we are in the world, but we are not of it. This means we do things differently. We prepare during this time — when the world may be fully celebrating Christmas already — by purposefully halting the full-out celebration and patiently waiting.

How can Catholics intentionally anticipate the coming of Christ Jesus? We can make more room in our hearts, lives and families for Him. As early as the fifth century, the Advent Season was penitential. It used to begin on the Feast of St. Martin of Tours, and it lasted for 40 days. It was called “St. Martin’s Lent,” but slowly, throughout the centuries, the fasting and penance were reduced. Today, only Lent and all Fridays of the year are listed as days and times of penance (CCC 1250).

Liturgically, we can clearly see the remnants of Advent as a penitential season. The Gloria is not sung during the Mass, and the colors of the Advent Season — purple and rose — are the same as the Season of Lent.

Celebrating Advent as a family in a very intentional way is more important than ever. Our office serves young people in the Archdiocese, and it has become painstakingly evident that they are hurting. Depression, self-harm and

DUNN ESTACIO

isolation are historically high, and these symptoms are part of other important issues, such as the breakdown of the family, that also need to be addressed. What does our society need? We need the reason for this season: Christ Jesus!

Because we are not of the world, we choose to live differently and joyfully. Thus, I would invite you to make more room for Christ Jesus by making this Advent Season penitential through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Unite your sufferings to the suffering of Christ Jesus on the cross for all those in need. Think about the young people in our local Church or the poor on the streets of Houston.

Here are some ideas to help you be less so that you can make more room for Christ Jesus this upcoming Christmastide:

Prayer: “For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is cry of recognition and of love, embracing trial and joy.” (CCC 2258)

- Go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation before Christmas.

- Use Sacred Scripture and meditate on the Incarnation.

Fasting: “The fourth precept (‘You shall observe days of fasting and abstinence established by the Church’)

ensures the times of… penance prepare us for the liturgical feasts and help us to acquire mastery over our instincts and freedom of heart.” (CCC 2043)

- Abstain from eating meat on Fridays.

- Spend less time on social media or your phone.

Almsgiving: “Giving alms to the poor is a witness of fraternal charity: it is also a work of justice to God.” (CCC 2462)

- Find a group at your parish that serves the homeless and help them.

- Accompany a family that is having a hard time and give them alms.

To be clear, Advent is different from Lent. The former is a joyful preparation and penitential waiting for the Nativity of the Lord, while the latter is a more intense and prolonged time of penance focused on the Passion and Death of the

Lord.

As Catholics, fasting and feasting have always gone together. We fast for 40 days of Lent to feast for the 50 days of the Easter Season. Let us use the rest of Advent to make more room for the Christ Child by saying, “Come, Lord Jesus, come” through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

Let us give our hearts to God in patient and joyful anticipation so that we can fully feast and celebrate during the Octave and the Season of Christmas.

O Emmanuel, king and lawgiver, desire of the nations, Savior of all people: Come and set us free, Lord our God. †

Dunn Estacio is an associate director with the Office of Adolescent Catechesis and Evangelization.

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COLUMNISTS

Meet ACCCRUS: The African Conference of Catholic Clergy and Religious

As we celebrate the 175th anniversary of our Archdiocese, we are called to celebrate the diversity that is incorporated within our local Church community. The Archdiocese acknowledges the diversity and has created vicars or priests to represent the various ethnic communities. There is a vicar for Vietnamese Catholics, a vicar for Filipino Catholics, and I am currently the vicar for Catholics of African Descent.

One of the jobs as vicar of Catholics of African Descent is to promote the various diverse communities that make up the African and African American Catholic community here in our Archdiocese. There is one organization that addresses the needs of the faithful that are from the African continent itself.

ACCCRUS is an acronym for the African Conference of Catholic Clergy and Religious in the United States. It is an association of priests and religious men and women from Africa who are working and/or studying in the United States and throughout our own Archdiocese. The organization was formed to provide an environment of spiritual and social support to them.

by FATHER REGINALD SAMUELS

One of the main missions of ACCCRUS is to organize seminars and workshops to make their ministry within the national Church more effective as missionaries within the cross-cultural and multicultural dynamics of American Society.

My job as vicar is to bridge the information gap between the African bishops and major superiors with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on issues affecting the African clergy and African religious on mission in our country. We are charged with giving the African clergy and African religious men and women who serve here in the United States a platform for the promotion of solidarity and reliance between the Church in the United States and the African Church.

This past November, there was a celebration of the third-annual Archdiocesan African Cultural Heritage Festival Mass at St. Cyril of Alexandria Church. Led by Daniel Cardinal

DiNardo and Father Innocent Njoku, the president of the Houston chapter of ACCCRUS, this special Mass for the Archdiocese brought attention to how the cultural expressions of faith unique to Africa were brought to America.

In the Mass celebration, there was traditional African dress from a wide variety of countries represented from Africa, along with a presentation of the various languages, music and dance

Sweet Jesus, we adore you

The whole world is filled with joyful noises of Christmas, and one of them is the common Christmas song, “O Come All Ye Faithful.” Are you ready for this joyous season? Are you ready to adore Him, Christ the Lord?

We have often seen the message: “Jesus is the reason for the Season.” Certainly, He is! Besides, Jesus is “the All in all” (Colossians 3:11) and “the source and summit of the Christian life” (CCC #1324).

In solidarity with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) National Eucharistic Revival Conference in 2024, let us reaffirm our belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist — particularly through Eucharistic Adoration — to deepen our love for this long-standing beautiful devotion in our Church.

Over 2,000 years ago, Jesus had come and made His dwelling among us as the Emmanuel (Is 7:14; Mt 1:23). The moment Jesus humbled Himself and was laid in the manger, Joseph, Mary, the host of Angels, the shepherds, and animals came to adore Him and give Him homage.

DECEMBER 18

DECEMBER 25

First Reading: Is 7:10-14

First Reading: Is 9:1-6

by SR. MARIA GORETTI THUY NGUYEN

Today’s Catholics continue this form of prayer, which “acknowledges that we are creatures in the presence of our Creator… We glorify the God who made us. We adore God from whom all blessings flow” (United States Catholic Catechism for Adults, p. 467).

Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is a sure guarantee of His accompaniment with us as He promised, “I am with you always until the end of the age” (Mt 28:20). St. Faustina described this great gift, saying, “You wanted to stay with us, and so You left us Yourself in the Sacrament of the altar, and You opened wide Your mercy to us” (Diary, 1747).

Emphasizing the devotion to the Eucharistic Adoration does not mean neglecting the Eucharistic Celebration — the Holy Mass — the greatest and highest form of prayer. Rather, according to Archbishop Timothy

Broglio, the newly elected president of the USCCB, “Eucharistic Adoration is born of the Mass and guides us to the Mass. Evidently, it is impossible to have Adoration without first having had a celebration of the Mass.” Indeed, Eucharistic Adoration is an extension, a prolonging of the Sacrifice of the Holy Mass.

The purpose of Eucharistic Adoration is, first of all, to give us the opportunity to worship God in the word made flesh for all that He has done to save mankind from damnation; and second, to offer us the opportunity to tell Him, as a friend, about our problems.

One time, during silent Adoration in our chapel, my eyes were filled with tears as I poured out my heart to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. I let Him know how my day went: feelings of being misunderstood and unjustly mistreated. As some tears streamed down to my lips, I could taste the saltiness of the electrolytes in the tears; instantly afterwards, it tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth. At once, my intuition told me that sweet Jesus had heard me and comforted me in my

PHOTO COURTESY OF FATHER REGINALD SAMUELS

Father Sebastine Okoye, pastor of St. Mary Star of the Sea, Father Ekenedilichukwu “Jude” Ezuma, pastor of Holy Family Parish in Galveston, and Father Reginald Samuels,

from the African Continent. You can hear more about ACCCRUS on my podcast “In His Light with Father Reginald Samuels” on Apple podcast and Spotify. †

Father Reginald Samuels is the vicar for Catholics of African Descent and pastor at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church in Deer Park.

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 24:1-6

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 96:1-3, 11-13

Second Reading: Rom 1:1-7

Second Reading: Titus 2:11-14

affliction (2 Cor 1:4).

Certainly, Jesus is present in our midst, in every tabernacle, to heal what is broken, to unify what is divided, to sweeten the bitter, and to validate the true meaning of our joys and sorrows (Archbishop Broglio).

St. Faustina once said, “All my strength is in You, O Living Bread… You are my shield; without You, Jesus, I know not how to live” (Diary, 814). Similarly, St. Alphonsus Liguori explained, “Of all devotions, that of adoring Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the greatest after the Sacraments, the one dearest to God and the one most helpful to us.”

Cultivating a devotion to Eucharistic Adoration strengthens our desire for an intimate relationship with Jesus, our best friend, who “awaits us in this Sacrament of love” (St. John Paul II). Come, let us adore Him during this season of Christmas and throughout the year during Eucharistic Adoration. †

Sister Maria Goretti Thuy Nguyen, OP, is an associate director in the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.

Gospel: Mt 1:18-24

Gospel: Lk 2:1-14

pastor of St. Hyacinth Parish in Deer Park and vicar for Catholics of African Descent, attend the Archdiocesan African Cultural Heritage Festival Mass in 2018.

Being ‘inclusive’ of those with disabilities means valuing them, pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Making churches accessible and services understandable is important, but having wheelchair ramps and sign-language interpreters is not enough for a parish to call itself “inclusive,” Pope Francis said.

The Church also must meet people’s needs for “belonging, relating to others and cultivating their spiritual lives, so they experience the fullness and blessing of the Lord”for the“unique and marvelous gift” that they are, the pope told a group of people with disabilities and those who minister with them.

The pope’s meeting with the group on Dec. 3 marked the International Day for Persons with Disabilities; the pope also issued a written message for the occasion. In the meeting, Pope Francis called for the “conversion” of the Catholic community to move from using inclusion as a “slogan” to ensuring people with disabilities are welcomed, integrated, recognized and supported as full members of the community.

“There is no inclusion if the experience of fraternity and mutual communion is missing,” the pope said. “There is no inclusion if there is no conversion in the practices of coexistence and relationships.”

Inclusion, he said, means “each person, with his or her limitations and gifts, feels encouraged to do his or her part for the good of the entire ecclesial body and for the good of society as a whole.”

In his written message for the international day, Pope Francis focused on how Catholics with disabilities can teach others one of the central messages of the Gospel: human beings need God’s love, mercy and strength.

The awareness of one’s limits, he wrote, “allows us to appreciate all the more God’s loving decision to help us in our weakness. An awareness that frees us

from sorrow and lament — even for good reason — and opens our hearts to praise.”

“The joy that radiates from those who encounter Jesus and entrust their lives to Him is no illusion or the fruit of naiveté,” the pope said.“It is the power of His resurrection penetrating lives marked by fragility.”

“Truly, we can speak of a ‘magisterium of fragility’ that, if heeded, would make our society more humane and fraternal, enabling all of us to understand that happiness is bread that is not eaten alone,” he said.

If everyone became more aware of their frailty and need for others, he said, it would “help us to have less hostile relationships with those around us” and begin to work together to find solutions to “the senseless conflicts we are experiencing.”

Pope Francis also used his message to urge people to remember “all those women and men with disabilities who live in the midst of war or have been themselves disabled as a result of warfare.”

“How many people — in Ukraine and in other theaters of war — remain imprisoned by ongoing conflicts without the possibility of escape?” he asked.

“They need to be given special attention and their access to humanitarian aid facilitated in every possible way.”

The pope also thanked Catholics with disabilities who participated in the listening process for the Synod of Bishops, sharing their experiences and pointing out the ways they have been included or excluded in their parish communities.

The synod process, he said, is a reminder that in the Church “there can be no us and them, but a single us, with Jesus Christ at the center, where each person brings his or her own gifts and limitations.” †

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Home visits, food network, disaster relief, clothing and furniture. svdphouston.org/get-help or 713-741-8234

San José Clinic

Primary and specialty health care services, counseling and mental health services, dental and vision. sanjoseclinic.org or 713-228-941

NATION

2022

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR UNDERWRITERS

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Janice Jamail Garvis and Deacon David Garvis Jes and John Hagale George W. Holewyne

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The Dr. Leon Bromberg Charitable Trust

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Louise and Bob Parsley | Jill and John Parsley

Kathy and Rick Plaeger

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Mr. and Mrs. Rene L. Rodriguez Marianna and Jim Ste es

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People of Faith. Helping People in Need.

‘O Holy Night’ tops all hymns used in churches in December, according to poll

WASHINGTON (CNS) — The Christmas carol “O Holy Night” ranked first in a list of hymns most played in December at Christian churches in the United States.

“O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night” ranked second and third, respectively.

The list was compiled by Pushpay, which offers electronic giving options for churches and their congregants.

It asked its 15,000 subscribing churches last December what hymns they used that month and released the results this Dec. 1. A Pushpay spokeswoman, Katie Griffin, could not supply a breakdown of Catholic parishes among those churches.

The top-10 list is filled with carols familiar to Catholics. Following the top three choices are, in order, “The First Noel,”“Joy To The World” and “Angels We Have Heard On High.”

Following those are two songs featured more in the repertoire of non-Catholic churches.

“Glorious Day,” which ranked seventh overall, was recorded by the contemporary Christian group Passion, featuring Kristian Stanfill on vocals. It is more of a salvation narrative without any lyrics taking note of the birth or infancy

of Jesus. Still, the song’s official music and lyrics video has received 6.6 million views on YouTube.

There are several versions of the eighth-ranked song, “Goodness of God.” One video of the song has climbed up to 7 million YouTube views. The song is another in the Christian contemporary genre which focuses more on a firstperson-singular, personal relationship with Jesus than a first-person plural voice found more often in Catholic hymnody.

Ninth is the gospel melody “Go Tell It On the Mountain,” which has found a home in many Catholic hymnals and parishes.

And, to prove that the list took into account all of December and not just the week beginning Dec. 25, winding up in the 10th spot was “O Come O Come Emmanuel,” an Advent song based on a chant melody familiar to Catholics not only in the United States but throughout the world.

Griffin told Catholic News Service it’s conducting the poll again this December. The top five songs from the 2020 poll were, in order, “Joy To The World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “Silent Night,” “O Come O Come Emmanuel” and “O Holy Night.” †

The Christian Renewal Center Hiring Full-Time Live-On Missionaries

If you are passionately Catholic, desire to serve the Lord with a servant’s heart, and are willing to commit at least one year (option to extend and promote), then the job of CRC Missionary might be the right fit for you. CRC Missionaries will do whatever it takes to fulfill the mission of the CRC, which is to draw people into a relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church through retreat ministry. Your daily tasks will change based on where your skills, talents and abilities are needed.

Missionaries will live in a community and share a communal prayer life that is opened to the laity. Missionaries are workers that desire to build the Kingdom of God through the hidden areas that further the mission such as housekeeping, food service, grounds, giving retreats and office work.

The CRC Missionaries get free housing, utilities, health, dental, vision, a 401K 10% match, as well as an annual salary.

We’re grateful for generous support that raised more than $530,000 to help families in need!

Agencias arquidiocesanas en Texas ayudan a inmigrantes y refugiados

POR JO ANN ZUÑIGA Texas Catholic Herald

HOUSTON — Casa Juan Diego y Caridades Católicas, que se están recuperando tras un desbordamiento de ingresos de personas venezolanas buscando asilo, pueda que tengan que prepararse para otro posible aumento en esta temporada navideña.

Un juez federal bloqueo el 15 de noviembre el Título 42, una regla de salud pública que ha permitido a autoridades en EE. UU. que expulsen a más de 1 millón de migrantes que cruzaron la frontera entre Estados Unidos y México. Antes del fallo, EE.UU. cerró su frontera el 12 de octubre a migrantes venezolanos huyendo de un gobierno autoritario y buscando asilo.

La orden de la suspensión del Título 42 dictada por el juez Emmet Sullivan de un tribunal de distrito entra en vigor a la medianoche el 21 de diciembre.

“Las personas que llegan a los Estados Unidos nos encuentran por su cuenta o, en muchos casos, nos las envía ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)”, dijo Louise Zwick, fundadora y directora de Casa Juan Diego, un refugio sin fines de lucro en Houston que depende completamente de las donaciones.

“Todos estos últimos meses, estuvimos pidiendo ayuda y todas nuestras casas estaban tan llenas y rebosantes de gente en todos lados”, dijo Zwick al Texas Catholic Herald, periódico de la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston. “Nuestros jóvenes voluntarios estaban trabajando mucho”.

“Recibimos solicitudes de California, Arizona y otros lugares de grupos que ayudan a los recién llegados”, agregó. “Nuestro mayor número continuó llegando hasta hace aproximadamente un mes. Nuestras camas aún se llenan todos los días, pero ahora no necesitamos tantos catres adicionales”.

Eso puede cambiar ya que la orden judicial de noviembre deja a la administración Biden sin una de las herramientas clave que había desplegado para abordar a los miles de migrantes que llegan a la frontera a diario y podría restaurar el acceso al asilo para los migrantes que llegan.

Durante meses durante el verano, autobuses y aviones de la frontera entre Estados Unidos y México transportaron a decenas de miles de hombres, mujeres y niños de América Central y del Sur a Nueva York, Chicago, Washington e incluso a Martha’s Vineyard en Massachusetts. El movimiento fue organizado por los gobernadores republicanos de Texas, Arizona y Florida y el alcalde demócrata de El Paso, Texas, pagados en su mayoría por los contribuyentes.

El gobernador de Texas Greg Abbott, en informes noticiosos, dijo que las llegadas darían a las ciudades liberales “una muestra” de lo que su estado ha tenido que enfrentar durante años. Muchos de ellos son venezolanos huyendo de la pobreza, la violencia y el

gobierno autoritario y quieren solicitar asilo. En la última transferencia después de que ganó las elecciones de noviembre, Abbott envió otro autobús, incluso, uno con una niña que estaba deshidratada y con fiebre, a Filadelfia, donde fue hospitalizada de inmediato.

El proceso de asilo puede llevar años y, durante gran parte de ese tiempo, a estos inmigrantes no se les permite trabajar. Zwick y quienes los ayudaron dijeron que cuidar a estos recién llegados ha sido un gran desafío, llamando la atención sobre una falla bipartidista de larga data para arreglar el sistema de asilo roto de la nación.

Más de 7 millones de personas han huido de Venezuela a diferentes países para escapar del caos político, social y económico. Es la segunda crisis de refugiados más grande del mundo después de Ucrania, según informes de prensa. Unos 187,000 venezolanos que cruzaron la frontera de México con EE.UU. el año pasado se les permitió quedarse mientras solicitan asilo.

El programa sigue el modelo de un esfuerzo similar para los ucranianos, que comenzaron a volar a México después

de la invasión rusa en febrero, buscando reunirse con amigos o familiares en los EE. UU. Desde que comenzó ese programa, el gobierno ha recibido más de 160,000 solicitudes para patrocinar a ciudadanos ucranianos, según el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional.

Unos 112,000 ucranianos han sido aprobados y más de 77,000 ya han llegado a través del programa llamado “Unidos por Ucrania”. Otros 111,000 ucranianos han llegado fuera del programa desde finales de marzo, según el departamento.

Caridades Católicas de la Arquidiócesis de Galveston-Houston recibió fondos de la agencia federal para el manejo de emergencias para ayudar a las familias migrantes que cruzaron recientemente la frontera entre Estados Unidos y México a viajar a través de un nuevo centro de transferencia y refugio temporal, dijo la directora de comunicaciones Betsy Ballard.

El albergue temporal, en asociación con la Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días, ha ayudado a cientos de personas al proporcionar alimentos, servicios básicos y una habitación de hotel para los migrantes que pasan por el área de Houston en rumbo a las familias

que los apadrinan.

“Proporcionamos autobuses, y casi nunca se quedan en Houston. Están viajando hacia sus destinos”, dijo Ballard.

Pero los fondos de FEMA de $2.8 millones para el centro de tránsito probablemente se agotarán pronto, dijo.

Mientras tanto, Casa Juan Diego continúa ayudando a un gran número de personas que buscan “posada”, dijo Zwick.

“Damos comida los martes, jueves y sábados por la mañana. Nuestros nuevos huéspedes y muchos voluntarios ayudan con la distribución”, dijo. “Continuamos ayudando a unas 225 personas muy enfermas o paralizadas y a sus familias con gastos de manutención, alimentos y suministros médicos”.

“Estamos sorprendidos y abrumados por las solicitudes que llegan de los trabajadores sociales de los hospitales que nos piden que ayudemos a más y más personas indocumentadas muy enfermas que salen de los hospitales. Somos solo unos pocos de nosotros con donaciones, y no podemos satisfacer a todas las personas de la población indocumentada que está enferma”, dijo Zwick.

Zwick dijo que la comida enlatada, las verduras enlatadas, las manzanas y otras frutas frescas donadas, así como los artículos de tocador y ropa, también son útiles, especialmente con el clima más frío y las festividades que se acercan.

Lázaro Contreras, director de la Oficina Arquidiocesana del Ministerio Hispano, recibió a un grupo de unos 15 líderes hispanos de la iglesia en Casa Juan Diego para posiblemente ser voluntarios o reclutar voluntarios.

“El propósito fue crear conciencia y abrir la posibilidad de voluntariado en la atención pastoral y acompañamiento de los migrantes”, dijo Contreras. “En mi tiempo personal, comencé a trabajar como voluntaria en Casa Juan Diego una vez a la semana los lunes durante dos o tres horas por la noche”.

“He hablado con gente de África, Nicaragua, Colombia, Guatemala, México, Cuba y principalmente Venezuela”, dijo Contreras. “Cada uno de ellos ha experimentado eventos muy traumáticos en su viaje. Es una bendición ayudarlos”. †

APOYO PASTORAL A VÍCTIMAS DE ABUSO SEXUAL DEL CLERO

FOTO DE ARCHIVO DEL HERALD

Casa Juan Diego House of Hospitality en Houston. El centro admi-

WITHIN THE ARTS

World premiere choral work celebrates lives not lived

Requiem for the Unborn is a prayer for life

BY HOLLY BERETTO Herald Correspondent

HOUSTON — Chris Bearer had been toying for years with writing a concert setting of a requiem Mass, the traditional Mass for the dead. He calls it divine providence that he was able to land on a subject for the piece: the millions of babies not born because of abortion.

He started on Requiem for the Unborn before the Dobbs decision overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade Supreme Court case, which legalized abortion in 1973. And he’d always planned to have the premiere of the work to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Roe. But, when

the court overturned the case earlier this year and sent the issue back to the states, Bearer’s work somehow took on more meaning.

“With all that hoopla surrounding the decision, it crept into the idea of the work and gave it a different depth,” he said.

Bearer, director of music at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, has always been partial to the soaring requiem Masses composed by Mozart, Verdi and Faure. In Paradisum, the conclusion to Faure’s Requiem, served as the foundation for Bearer’s own.

The work itself follows the traditional Mass for the dead, with some exceptions.

“I based the piece on Gregorian melody,” he said. “I left out the Dies Irae, but I kept the last lines of Pie Jesu and used the offertory text and that for communion.”

Listeners will also recognize the Kyrie

and Sanctus, as both are often used in vigil Masses throughout the year.

Bearer has a background in music, having earned his bachelor of music from the University of Texas at Austin and a masters of sacred music from the University of St. Thomas. He’s been composing for years, and commissions of his have been performed at schools and churches around the country.

“But I’ve never written anything on this scale,” he said. Requiem for the Unborn is written for choir and orchestra. It will premiere at St. Thomas More Church, located at 10990 Hillcroft St. in Houston, at 7 p.m. on Jan. 27, 2023.

Above the act of creating the work, however, Bearer is dedicated to the cause behind it.

“The fight [over abortion] is definitely not over,” he said. “And this work brings awareness to what the struggle is. It’s

important that we have these kinds of discussions.”

He believes that the arts can offer a window to help people understand thorny issues. The arts, he stresses, can be an influencer.

“We have to speak to those who are not necessarily part of our circles,” he explains. “Music can do that.”

Requiem for the Unborn shouldn’t be construed as a pop music approach to a traditional form, however. It is, at its heart, a sacred piece.

“The requiem is our vessel for using these words and sharing the importance of this issue,” he said.“I’m trying to use my humble talent in bringing — and keeping — the abortion topic in the forefront of our culture. We are Catholics, and we will not stop this fight. We will keep at it.”

Hear selections and learn more at requiemfortheunborn.org. †

MOVIE RATINGS By Catholic News Service

A

L

M – MATURE VIEWERS

• Black Adam (PG-13)

• Heart of a Missionary (NR)

T – MATURE TEENS

• Till (PG-13)

• Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (PG-13)

• Devotion (PG-13)

• She Said (R)

• Strange World (PG)

• The Fabelmans (PG-13)

• Ticket to Paradise (PG-13)

• All Quiet on the Western Front (R)

• The Banshees of Inisherin (R)

• Halloween Ends (R)

MILESTONES

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

Basilian Fathers mark bicentennial anniversary

HOUSTON — The Congregation of St. Basil commemorated 200 years of service through education and evangelization with a special Basilian bicentennial Mass at St. Anne Catholic Church in Houston on Nov. 21.

“Founded in the small town of Annonay, France, the Basilian Fathers’ ten founders would barely recognize the Congregation of today,” said Most Rev. Kevin Storey, CSB, Superior General of the Congregation. “Our founders, who were responding to the needs of their time, would be proud and thrilled at what their initial actions have produced. The same Basilian spirit and sense of community our founders embodied continues to permeate all our apostolates that today spread across three continents, five countries, and three languages

An exhibit depicted the Congregation’s at the church, featuring a timeline of how the small community’s founding mission of providing Catholic education to those in need took the Congregation from its birthplace in France to the New World in Canada and the United States in the 19th century and Latin America in Mexico and Colombia in the 20th century.

Basilians first came to Texas in 1899 where they opened St. Basil’s College in Waco, Texas. Three of the school’s graduates became Basilian priests and had significant influence in the local Catholic community.

Father Thomas Patrick O’Rourke, CSB was one of the founders of the University of St. Thomas, which opened in 1947. Father Daniel Dillon, CSB was principal of what is now St. Thomas High School from 1919-1922 and later became vicar general of the Basilians from 19421948. His brother, Father Joseph Dillon, CSB, began ministering to the Spanishspeaking people living in towns around Houston in the 1930s and 40s.

This work became known as the Mexican Missions and led to the establishment of full-fledged parishes in the Galveston-Houston and Victoria dioceses. Encouraged by Pope John XXIII’s call to religious communities to send their people to Latin America, the Basilians expanded on their mission work by establishing an apostolate in Mexico.

Since their arrival in 1899, the Basilian Fathers have had a strong presence in Houston, staffing many parishes

and schools around the Archdiocese, including St. Mary’s Seminary in La Porte from its opening in 1901 until 1911. Basilians continue to minister at the University of St. Thomas, St. Thomas High School, and St. Anne Catholic Church in Houston.

The Archdiocese is also home to the St. Joseph’s Mission Center, which raises funds for the Congregation’s ministry in Mexico and Colombia, and scholasticate for the Congregation’s Canadian and American candidates for the priesthood.

Today, the Basilians minister in

AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE

Editor’s Note: Contact event organizers for the latest updates. For deadline details and more listings, visit WWW. ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.

DEC. 15

LESSONS AND CAROLS WITH CARDINAL DINARDO, 7:30 p.m., Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart (1111 St. Joseph Pkwy., Houston). Annual Lessons and Carols event also marks the 175th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston with Daniel Cardinal DiNardo and the Cor Jesu Choir of the CoCathedral. Free, open to the public.

DEC. 16

CONCERT, 7:30 p.m., St. Mary Magdalene, (527 S. Houston Ave., Humble). St. Mary Magdalene Music Ministry presents “A Thrill of Hope” Christmas worship concert with the parish adult choir, children’s choir, Mariachi group, instrumental ensemble and parish pastor, Father Felix Osasona, under the direction of Percival Cacanindin. Tickets: $15 available at the parish office.

FISH FRY, 5 to 7 p.m., St. Paul the Apostle, (18223 Point Lookout, Nassau Bay). Eat in or drive-thru.

DEC. 17

MINI-RETREAT, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mary Queen (606 Cedarwood Dr., Friendswood). Family Life Ministry hosts “The Manger & the Hay,” an advent mini-retreat through the eyes of the Holy Family. $10 per family. Childcare provided. Includes keynote speakers, food, refreshments and Mass. Register: archgh.org/ familylife.

DEC. 17

Catholic Charities Wine & Dine dinner benefits low-income families

HOUSTON — Attendees at the 2022 Wine & Dine Dinner benefiting Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston raised more than $530,000 to help low-income families.

Chaired by Caren and John Steffes, funds raised at this year’s Nov. 19 event surpassed the goal through ticket and table sales, in addition to gifts made at the dinner during a live auction and a “Fund a Need” effort that allowed immediate commitment to gifts at various levels.

“Thanks to our generous friends, Catholic Charities is able to provide help and hope to struggling families, children, seniors, refugees and others who need a hand-up to live with dignity and achieve self-sufficiency,” said Catholic Charities President and CEO Cynthia N. Colbert, MSW. “We’re grateful that so many guests gathered at the Wine & Dine for a good meal, fellowship and warm intent to make a positive impact in our community.”

Attendees enjoyed a four-course meal prepared by Executive Chef Ryan Bouillet of A Fare Extraordinaire, with wines paired for each course by Master Sommelier Brandon Kerne. The event was held at The Revaire in Houston.

In the last year, Catholic Charities helped more than 342,000 individuals through a network of life-changing programs that work together to alleviate the devastating effects of poverty. Catholic Charities is guided by the Catholic faith to serve people of all beliefs through offices located in Harris, Fort Bend and Galveston counties. Learn more at CatholicCharities.org. †

CHRISTMAS BASKET RAFFLE, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sacred Heart - Archangel Hall (109 N. Frazier St., Conroe). The Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court #1884 hosts a Christmas basket raffle, with 31 baskets of prizes to win. Tickets: $2 each or 6 for $10. Benefits Sacred Heart parish. Ticket sales in front of Archangel Hall continue each Saturday 5 p.m. Mass, and Sunday Masses at 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Drawing held on Sunday, Dec. 19 after 10 a.m. Mass. 504-400-3784, cwiewior@ hotmail.com.

DEC. 16-24

SIMBANG GABI, 5:30 a.m. daily, St. John Neumann (2730 Nelwood Dr., Houston). A devotional nine-day series of dawn masses in anticipation of Christmas. A Filipino tradition is called Misa de Aguinaldo. 281931-0684; sjnhouston.org.

Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Colombia and administer three high schools Their work in education continues at the postsecondary level in the areas of teaching, administration, and research, campus ministry, publications, and missions work. They provide formation to lay Catholic educators to train Catholic teachers with the foundation for sound Christian education.

They also serve as missionaries, hospital chaplains, licensed counselors and therapists, retreat directors, peacekeepers, and more. †

DEC. 23

SIMBANG GABI CULMINATION MASS, 7 p.m., Holy Family (1510 5th St., Missouri City). Daniel Cardinal DiNardo celebrates the culmination Mass of the Filipino Simbang Gabi tradition, a novena of Masses leading up to Christmas. Reception follows. www.simbanggabihouston.blogspot.com.

LIVING NATIVITY, 3:30 to 9 p.m., Sacred Heart (109 N. Frazier St., Conroe). All are welcome for a live nativity outside Sacred Heart Church on the corner of Frazier Street and FM 2854 with a live animal, prayer, Posada and music. Includes light refreshments and some kids activities. Free. the99SH@gmail.com.

DEC. 24

VIETNAMESE CHRISTMAS VIGIL MASS, 6 p.m., Christ the Incarnate Word (8503 S. Kirkwood Rd., Houston). Daniel Cardinal DiNardo celebrates the annual Christmas Vigil Mass with Houston’s Vietnamese Catholic community.

DEC. 25

MIDNIGHT MASS, 12 a.m., Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart (1111 St. Joseph Pkwy., Houston). Daniel Cardinal DiNardo will celebrate Midnight Mass for the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord.

CHRISTMAS DAY MASS, 12:30 p.m., St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica (2011 Church St., Galveston). Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, will celebrate Mass for the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord.

DEC. 26 - 30

MEN’S IGNATIAN SILENT RETREAT, at St. Mary’s Seminary (9845 Memorial Dr., Houston). Retreat for single young adult men, 18-35, who really want to listen to God. Discover what God has planned for you while you dive deeper into your prayer life with the Lord. Cost: $150. Limited space. Register: houstonvocations.com/events.

DEC. 27 - 31

WOMEN’S IGNATIAN SILENT RETREAT, at Dominican Sisters of Houston Genesis House in Houston. Ignatian silent retreat for women ages 18-40 looking to take a break from their hectic schedules and rest with God as they also deepen their relationship with Him. Cost: $150. Limited space. Register: houstonvocations.com/events. •••

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

Special to the Herald

AROUND TOWN

PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON

At the 2022 Wine & Dine Dinner benefiting Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, (left to right) chairs John and Caren Steffes, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, President and CEO Cynthia Colbert, and Board Chair Gretchen Martinez-Penny celebrate success in raising more than $530,000 to help families in need throughout the Archdiocese.