The Catholic - Diocese of Victoria

The Catholic The cradle of Texas Immigration

VOL. 29, NO. 2

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DIOCESE OF VICTORIA IN TEXAS

In This Issue . . . • Pg. 2 Ordination/ Installation Information

• Pg. 5 Meet a Deacon • Pg. 8 CRS/ Church Celebrates 50 Years • Pg. 9 Top Graduates • Pg. 10 Meet a Catholic School Principal • Pg. 11 Year of Consecrated Life • Pg. 14 Faith Formation Graduates

Always, our bishop

The Most. Rev. Brendan J. Cahill Bishop-Elect will be ordained and installed as the third bishop of the Diocese of Victoria this month.* See more on pg. 2.

“Through the Holy Spirit who has been given to them, bishops are the successors of the apostles by divine institution; they are constituted pastors within the church so that they are teachers of doctrine, priests of sacred worship, and ministers of governance. Bishops are called diocesan when the care of a diocese has been entrusted to them . . . .” (Canons 375 §1 and 376)

June 2015

Congratulations

Fr. Joseph Vrana for 50 years of service

We thank you!

To witness the charity of Christ

The Second Bishop of the Diocese of Victoria, Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer

4 priests, 1 deacon ordained in the diocese

On June 6, 2015 at Holy Family of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus, Victoria, the sacrament of holy orders will be conferred, through the imposition of hands and invocation of the Holy Spirit by Bishop Emeritus David E. Fellhauer, upon Rev. Mr. Kristopher L. Fuchs, Rev. Mr. Scott J. Hill, Rev. Mr. Jacob A. Koether, and Rev. Mr. Francis T. Nguyen III to the priesthood of Jesus Christ and the ordination of Mr. Max A. Landman to the sacred order of deacon. Fr. Kristopher Fuchs completed Theology IV at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, OH. Fr. Scott Hill completed Theology IV at St. Mary Seminary in Houston, TX. Fr. Jacob Koether completed Theology IV at St. Mary Seminary in Houston, TX. Fr. Francis Nguyen III completed Theology IV at Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, CT. Deacon Max Landman completed Theology III at Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, OH. The Diocese of Victoria congratulates them on their accomplishments and welcomes them into our diocese. Their services are much needed and we look forward to having them serve in the parishes of our diocese. Is God calling you? For more information, contact The Office of Vocations at (361) 573-5304, vocations@victoria vocations.org, or visit www.victoriavocations.org.

NOTE: More ordination coverage will be featured in the July issue.

Joseph L. Vrana, III was born Dec. 21, 1939 to Joseph L. Vrana, Jr. and Helen Cyva Vrana. He attended 1-8 grades in Sheldon, TX and transferred to Crosby High School in Crosby, TX for grades 9-12. It was during this time that he began to seriously consider the priesthood. After graduation, he answered his calling to the priesthood and entered St. Mary's Seminary in Houston, TX. He was among 8 seminarians ordained by Bishop John L. Morkovsky on May 29, 1965 at Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral. Following his ordination, Fr. Joe was very happy to impart his priestly blessing to his parents as See Fr. Joe, 50 years, pg. 7

Ordained to serve, gather, transform, and send those who receive the sacrament of holy orders- as a deacon, priest or bishop- are consecrated in Christ’s name ‘to feed the church by the word and grace of God.’

St. Peter's Square at the Vatican (CNS photo/Paul Haring) AD RE L AL UT O AB T! I

Father Kristopher Fuchs

Father Scott Hill

Father Jacob Koether

Father Francis Nguyen

Deacon Max Landman

Set the Diocese of Victoria as your homepage: www.victoriadiocese.org. View TCL online!

R "

DIOCESE

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 2 — June 2015

Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer’s Schedule June 6 Publisher Bishop Emeritus David E. Fellhauer

Editor Allison Hybner [email protected] Production/Advertising Regina Matus-Janak [email protected] OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DIOCESE OF VICTORIA IN TEXAS ©2015 The Diocese of Victoria is comprised of more than 50 parishes in 69 communities.



10:00 a.m. Mass, Priestly and Diaconal Ordinations, Holy Family Church, Victoria 5:00 p.m. Confirmation Mass, St. Michael Church, Cuero

7

10:00 a.m. Confirmation Mass, St. John Bosco Church, Vanderbilt

11

3:00 p.m. World Day of Prayer for Sanctification of Priests and Serra Club Priests’ Cookout, Holy Family Church, Victoria

17

2:00 p.m. Finance Board Meeting, Chancery

29

2:00 p.m. Ordination and Installation of Bishop Brendan J. Cahill, Third Bishop of Victoria, Our Lady of Victory Cathedral, Victoria July

5

11:30 a.m. Opening Mass for 2015 Vocation Camp, St. Michael Church, Weimar

E-mail local stories, photos or festival announcements to [email protected].

DEADLINE IS THE 15th OF THE PRECEDING MONTH. (361) 573-0828 (361) 573-5725 FAX www.victoriadiocese.org POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Catholic Lighthouse, P.O. Box 4070, Victoria, TX 77903. The Catholic Lighthouse cannot be held liable, or in any way responsible for the content of any advertisement appearing within these pages. All claims, offers, guarantees, statements, etc., made by The Catholic Lighthouse advertisers are solely the responsibility of the advertiser. Deceptive or misleading advertising is never knowingly accepted. Complaints regarding advertising should be made directly to the advertiser or the Better Business Bureau.

*Front page Photo courtesy of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

Dear Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer: On behalf of the USCCB Subcommittee on the Catholic Communication Campaign (CCC), thank you for your support and donation of $4,021.79. Sincerely yours in Christ, Most Rev. Joseph J. Tyson Bishop of Yakima Chairman, USCCB Subcommittee on the CCC Dear Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer: Thank you for $51,485.84 in support of the Retirement Fund for Religious. Thank you and the faithful of your diocese for such generosity and prayerful support. Gratefully, Sr. Janice Bader, CPPS Executive Director

TCL Special Edition advertising

Estimated Catholic population: 107,000.

The Catholic Lighthouse USPS-001015 (ISSN 0894-7740) is published monthly at 1505 E. Mesquite Lane in Victoria, TX 77901. Subscription rates are $7 per year within the diocese. $10 outside the diocese.

Thank you note

With praise and thanksgiving to Almighty God, The Diocese of Victoria in Texas joyfully announces the Episcopal Ordination and Installation of His Excellency

The Most Rev. Brendan J. Cahill, S.T.D. as the third bishop of Victoria Monday, June 29, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. Our Lady of Victory Cathedral 1309 E. Mesquite Lane Victoria, TX

----Due to space limitations, seating at the OLV Cathedral is by TICKET ONLY. All are welcome to view the Ordination/Installation at the OLV Gymnasium or by additionally provided LIVE coverage via EWTN and CatholicTV networks. For more information, visit www.ewtn.com and www.victoriadiocese.org. A link for live viewing will be provided soon! -----

The Diocese of Victoria is pleased to announce that all will be able to welcome our new bishop at the following receptions: July 10 • El Campo • 7:00 p.m. • KC Hall July 13 • Victoria • 7:00 p.m. • Holy Family July 15 • Hallettsville • 7:00 p.m. • KC Hall July 20 • Palacios • 5:30 p.m. • Mass/reception at the Vietnamese Apostolate

In addition to our July edition, a special edition will be published featuring the newly named Bishop of the Diocese of Victoria. Advertising rates listed below will be applicable to the all-color pages of the special edition only. Ad pricing for the special edition: Outside diocese Color Full page: $1,500 ½ page: $750 ¼ page: $450 Inside diocese Color Full page: $1,200 ½ page: $675 ¼ page: $375 To place an ad or for more information, contact TCL at (361) 573-0828.

DSA update

2015 Diocesan Services Appeal Diocesan Goal: $ 1,826,700.00 Parish Pledge Totals: $ 579,979.87 Parish Contribution Totals: $ 466,060.67 Number of Parish Families Participating: 2,652 Ordination/Installation coverage

Please visit www.victoriadiocese.org. A link to watch it LIVE on your television, computer, or phone will be provided soon!

DIOCESE Seminary Burses

Seminary burses are a permanent fund used for the education of future priests for the Diocese of Victoria. The goal of each burse is $15,000. The interest from this amount is applied yearly to the education of seminarians. The burses are in memory of or in honor of an individual priest or lay persons, living or deceased. Publication of the burses will appear periodically when new contributions are received. Those wishing to begin a burse or to contribute to an existing seminary burse may do so by sending their contributions with the appropriate burse designation to: DIOCESE OF VICTORIA • SEMINARY BURSES • P. O. BOX 4070 • VICTORIA, TX 77903. Ganado Branches Burse #2 — Rev. Scott Hill As of May 30, 2015 TOTALS Previously reported $6,200.00 In honor of Rev. Scott Hill on his — General Seminary Burse In honor of Most Rev. David E. Fellhauer ordination to the priesthood by CDA Previously reported $105,684.00 for his dedication and retirement Court St. Roch #2328-Mentz 500.00 In honor of Rev. Joe Vrana’s ordination by KJT Society #3-Hostyn 200.00 — KC Council #1329-Victoria Burse #3 anniversary to the priesthood Total $6,400.00 Previously reported $14,457.50 by KC #3371-Nada 2,500.00 — Rev. Wayne Flagg and In loving memory of Rev. Msgr. In memory of Peggy Hermes by Richard Rev. Philip Brune Michael Harrold by and Dolores Miller 25.00 Previously reported $3,220.00 KC Co. #1329-Victoria 100.00 Total $108,209.00 In honor of Rev. Philip Brune’s 1st In loving memory of Robert “Bob” — Rev. Msgr. Edward C. Bartsch ordination anniversary to the Johnston by Previously reported $11,161.00 priesthood by Lambert, Carol, and KC Co. #1329-Victoria 100.00 In loving memory of Rev. Msgr. Edward Leigh Ann Brune 50.00 Total $14,657.50 Bartsch on the 5th anniversary In memory of Leonard Buxkemper — Rev. Charles Kolek, OSB & of his death (04/04/10) by Jim and Michelle Kubicek 25.00 John and Mary Kolek by Verna Goertz 1,000.00 In honor of Ernest and Eudene Richter’s Previously reported $5,180.00 In loving memory of Rev. Msgr. Edward 50th wedding anniversary by E.J., In memory of Henry L. Vesely Bartsch on the anniversary of his Margie, and Robert Socha 25.00 by family and friends 50.00 ordination to the priesthood Total $3,320.00 Total $5,230.00 from a friend 100.00 — Rev. Kristopher L. Fuchs Total $12,261.00 — Rev. Timothy Kosler In celebration and thanksgiving for our Donation in honor of Rev. Tim Kosler’s — CDA Court St. Ann #369 grandson, Rev. Kristopher Fuchs 44th ordination anniversary Previously reported $10,833.99 in honor of his ordination to the to the priesthood by a friend $100.00 In memory of Thomas M. Kocian priesthood by Paul and by CDA Court St. Ann #369 25.00 Helen Flessner 1,000.00 — Rev. Dan Morales in Honor of his Total $10,858.99 Work for Vocations — Rev. Msgr. Michael Harrold Previously reported $1,000.00 — CDA Our Lady Queen of Peace Ct. #1374 Previously reported $220.00 In memory of the the Tibiletti Family by Previously reported $7,702.12 In loving memory of Rev. Msgr. Michael M/M Steve Tibiletti 200.00 In memory of Audrey Hanzelka Kouba Harrold by In honor of James Dvorak’s graduation by Al and LaDell Janda 20.00 Barbara and Jerry Durocher 250.00 from the University of Dallas by Total $7,722.12 In memory of Rev. Msgr. Michael DeWayne and Adeline Dvorak 1 00.00 — Most Rev. David E. Fellhauer/ Catholic Harrold by Margaret Boedeker 20.00 Total $1,300.00 Life Insurance: Nada, Moulton-Flatonia, Total $490.00 Hallettsville, El Campo and Edna-

Fall Vermont Tour: Oct. 16-24, 2015 More space! 7 spaces available! Canadian Rockies/ Glacier National Park: July 23-29 2 spaces available until May 15th! Oregon’s Natural Wonders: Sept. 20-26

  Cruise from Venice - Croatia Athens - Ephesus: June 11-18, 2016 Book early for best cabins! Pathways ~with Patti 334 Jurek Road Port Lavaca, TX 77979 (361) 552.2695 or (361) 920.3216

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 3 — June 2015 — Rev. Msgr. Michael O’Shaughnessy

Previously reported $2,390.00 In loving memory of Rev. Msgr. Michael O’Shaughnessy by Barbara and Jerry Durocher 250.00 Total $2,640.00 — Rev. Msgr. John C. Peters Burse #7

Previous reported $6,805.00 In memory of Vera (Jalufka) Orsak by Edward Wagner and Eve Luna Family 80.00 by Bennie and Victoria Orsak 40.00 by David and Wilma Wagner 20.00 In memory of Emma Wick by Gilbert and Mary Urbish 15.00 In memory of Donald Laas by Bernard and Mary Grahmann 1 0.00 Total $6,970.00 — St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Koerth

In memory of Emma Wick and Terry Wick by Emma Raska 50.00 — Rev. Msgr. Victor Schmidtzinsky

In loving memory of Rev. Msgr. Victor Schmidtzinsky’s 10th death See Seminary Burses, pg. 5

Happy birthday!

Jacob Mendoza is in his Pastoral Year at Our Lady of the Gulf, Port Lavaca. His birthday is June 6. Please show your support by writing to Our Lady of the Gulf, 415 W. Austin St., Port Lavaca, TX 77979. Stephen Vacek is in his Pastoral Year at St. Anthony of Padua, Palacios. His birthday is June 26. Please show your support by writing to St. Anthony of Padua, P.O. Box 900, Palacios, TX 77465.

Reporting Abuse

If you or someone you know has been sexually abused by a member of the clergy or other church personnel, you can register a complaint. • Call the bishop or the chancellor at the Chancery at (361) 573-0828; or • Call Fr. Gary Janak (361) 575-4741 or Sr. Emilie Eilers (361) 575-7111, Coordinators of Pastoral Care and Outreach; or • Write to: Bishop Emeritus David E. Fellhauer Diocese of Victoria, P.O. Box 4070, Victoria, TX 77903 Mark your letter “Personal and Confidential”. We will also help you bring your concerns to Church officials outside the diocese if the abuse occurred elsewhere and you now reside in the Diocese of Victoria. If you are unsure about bringing forth a complaint or need more information, please contact: Fr. Gary Janak at (361) 575-4741. Reporting Child Abuse Hotline • 1 (800) 252-5400 www.txabusehotline.org If you know or suspect a child or person has been abused or mistreated, you are required to report it to the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services or to a law enforcement agency within 48 hours. If the person is in immediate danger, call 911.

ABCATS TRAVEL



Tour Germany, Poland, & Czech Republic

August 11-23, 2015 Berlin, Gdansk, Warsaw, Czestochowa, Jasna Gora Monastery, Krakow, Frenstat, & Prague

(361) 578-0828 • [email protected]

www.abcatstravel.com

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 4 — June 2015

YOUTH

A F o u r members from St. Michael Catholic Church CDA Court #347, Cuero, attended the CDA 49th Biennial Texas State Con(A) Winners of the Education Contest sponsored B vention held at the Renaissance by Our Lady of the Gulf CDA Court #2267, Port Hotel in Austin. Representing Lavaca, from left to right: Aiden Holford, 2nd-Essayand serving as delegates, left Div.2; Jenny Pham, 3rd-Essay-Div.2; Arianna Silva, to right: Lucille Gips, Laura 1st-Essay-Div.1; Abigal Holford, 2nd-Comp.Art-Div.1; Kocurek, Sally Goebel, and Nancy Stefka. Madelyn Crowley, 1st-Comp.Art-Div.1; Marissa CrowSt. Michael Catholic Church CDA Court #347 Education Contest winners: Div.1ley, 2nd-Comp.Art-Div.2; Maria Hernandez, 1st-Comp Poetry: Elizabeth Gonzales, 1st; Art-Div.2; Cassandra Lopez, 2nd-Art- Div.1; Emiliegh Allison Zengerle, 2nd; and Macey Silvas, 3rd-Art-Div.2; and Kristan Pham-2nd-Art-Div.2. Art: Audrey Janak, Not pictured: Emily Llanes, 1st-Essay-Div.2, 3rd Comp. (B) Emily Llanes, 1st Hahn, 3rd. Div.12nd; and MadiArt-Div.2; Dustin Miller, 3rd-Essay-Div.1; Emma May- place winner in Essay-Div. 1st; Macey Hahn, son Lemke, 3rd. Div.2-Art: Skylar field, 1st Art-Div. 1, 2nd-Essay-Div.1; Azalia Pasades, 2 state competition. Pelletier, 1st and Kelby Crider, 2nd. 3rd-Comp. Art-Div.1; Katie Carmichael, 3rd-Art-Div.1; Pictured: Judy Roeder, school and Autumn Wittkohl, 1st-Art-Div. 2. principal; Nancy Stefka, contest judge; and Sally Goebel, contest Presidio La Bahia (PLB) Museum and Visitor Center judge. Students Visit the 19th Centrury! include Kelby Crider, Macey The Presidio, located in Goliad, is the only Spanish fort in the possession of Hahn, Audrey the Catholic church in North America and is a National Historic Landmark. Janak, Allison Zengerle, and Skylar Pelletier. Not pictured: The museum is open 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and is closed on major holidays. For Elizabeth Gonzales and Madison Lemke. more information, contact (361) 645-3752 or visit www.presidiolabahia.org.

3rd Annual Fishers of Men Saltwater Fishing Tournament

Saturday, August 29, 2015 Elks Lodge • El Campo, TX

Entry fee: $200 per team (4 persons max) 5 optional side-pot entry fees $20 each category •100% side-pot payout Tournament prizes will be given for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place. 5 fish heavy stringer (2 red & 3 trout)

A meal will be provided after the weigh-in for those who have entered the tournament by August 14th. Additional meal tickets may be purchased for $8 p/p when the team entry is sent in or at weigh-in. You may register at the mandatory Captain’s Meeting at the Elks Lodge on Friday, August 28th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Kyle Chandler at (979) 541-9833 or [email protected].

Entry fees benefit the El Campo Deanery ACTS.

At the CDA State Convention, JCDA Court #206, Yoakum, was awarded a 1st place honor for their Circle of Love report. The report details and informs other CDA courts throughout the state of Texas about JCDA #206's community involvement, charitable activities, donations, and how they share their faith. JCDA #206 currently has 51 active members which girls in 1-12 grades. Desi Muenich and Jennifer Jahn are co-leaders. Fr. Matthew Huehlefeld, pastor of St. Joseph, Yoakum, attended a meeting and spoke about symbolism, history, and traditions of the Catholic faith. Members learned about various saints and statues as well as symbols of animals and figures etched in the beautiful stained glass windows visible in the church. While visiting the sacristy, Fr. Matthew explained the different oils used in the sacraments and showed the selection of sacred vestments he wears throughout the liturgical year. JCDA #206 members ended the 2014-15 year with an awards ceremony and celebration at Yoakum City Park. Members received a necklace with a rainbow-enameled cross. The rainbow-colored cross symbolized how all of their activities and charitable acts focused on the colors of faith. Some of the activities involved donating a specific item to the Yoakum Food Pantry each month, donating care packages to the Yoakum Journey House, and donating a crucifix to the children's liturgy program at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

SPIRITUALITY

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 5 — June 2015

Seminary Burses

Meet a Deacon (a TCL series)

Continued from page 3

anniversary (2/25/2005) by a friend

$500.00

— Rev. Jerome J. Stryk Burse #2

by Deacon Dennis Kutach Born in Shiner on August 4, 1948 to Julius and Agnes (Strauss) Kutach, I am the youngest of 9 children. I graduated from St. Paul High School in 1966 and joined the Air Force under the buddy system while a senior in school. In June of 1967, I was called to active duty and served until October 1971. My wife, Georgia, and I have been married for 45 years. We have 4 daughters and 11 grandchildren. We moved to Yoakum in 1972. I was employed by First State Bank and retired from threre in 2013 after 41 years. I have always been involved in the Church, having served as an altar boy from age 8 until a senior in high school and also having served as a lector. I spent 2 weeks at St. John's Seminary in the summer of 1961 and planned to enter the seminary my freshman year, but changed my mind. After moving to Yoakum, I became involved at St. Joseph as a lector, Eucharistic minister, and as a member of the choir. In 2001, Fr. Gary Janak asked me to attend a meeting about the diaconate in Moulton. After attending the meeting with Fr. Gabriel Maison and Michael Fonseca, there was no doubt in my mind God was calling me to do more with my life. My wife and family were in total support of my decision of becoming a deacon. I began formation in Sept. 2001 and was ordained in July 2006. Becoming a deacon was a life changing experience for me. I had always been driven to be successful, but always felt something was missing in my life. As a banker, service was always important- but service has taken on a different meaning in my life as a deacon. Being of service to the Church and the people of God has made me realize what is really important in life. It can be the most satisfying and most humbling journey a person can experience. I have found true success can only be accomplished through service- and that is what being a deacon is all about. One of the best decisions I have made in my life was answering the call from God to the diaconate. At St. Joseph, Yoakum, I assist at Mass, teach RCIA classes, assist with baptism classes, preside at wake services, and serve on the Finance Committee. I am active in the Yoakum Ministerial Alliance and serve as secretary/treasurer. In 2008, I was appointed as the director of Permanent Deacons for the Diocese of Victoria by Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer and also serve on the diocesan Finance Council. In addition to attending many functions of my children and grandchildren, I enjoy golf, fishing, hunting, and traveling. My wife and I went to the Holy Land last year and recently returned from a pilgrimage to Italy. Even though I am retired from the business world, I stay very busy with Church activities, family, and service organizations including Lions Club and Knights of Columbus. I especially enjoy morning quiet time beginning with the Liturgy of the Hours followed by daily Mass. God has blessed me in so many ways. I am reminded daily that being His servant is my greatest blessing.

Retrouvaille™

Previously reported $1,849.50 In memory of Kemper Sam Williams, Jr. by Edwin and Julie Stryk 25.00 Total $1,874.50 — Elorine Bluntzer Tumlinson

Previously reported $2,750.00 Donation by M/M Donald F. McDonald 200.00 Total $2,950.00 — Rev. Edward Winkler

Previously reported

$2,100.00

In memory of Daniel and Martha Freytag by Johnnie and Elaine Hoffman 50.00 In memory of Bernice Schacherl by Johnnie and Elaine Hoffman 25.00 Total $2,175.00 — Cora Wostarek

Previously reported $3,350.00 In loving memory of Cora Wostarek by M/M Billie T. Hinze, M/M Garrett Hinze, Jeffrey Hinze, and Alyson Hinze 2,000.00 In memory of Leonard Buxemper by Dewayne and Adeline Dvorak 50.00 Total $5,400.00

If I am not capable of forgiving, I am not capable of being forgiven. ~Pope Francis

Celebrating 127 Years!

SATURDAY, JULY 4TH

ADULTS: $9 p/p. • CHILDREN: $5 p/p.

...a Lifeline For Troubled Marriages ™

August 14-16, 2015

Diocese of Victoria Spiritual Renewal Center

FOR MARRIED COUPLES WHO ARE: • Anxious about their marriage relationship. • Alone or distant from their partner. • Disillusioned or bored in their marriage. • Without the time or desire to communicate. • Experiencing coldness or conflict. • Frustrated, hurt or angry with their spouse • Unable to see how to change their situation. For confidential inquires, call 1 (800) 470-2230 or visit www.retrouvaille.org.

VISIT OUR 127 YEAR-OLD CHURCH!

YOUTH

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 6 — June 2015

Sunday Readings from June 14 to July 5, 2015

June 14- 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time Ezekiel 17:22-24 Psalms 92:2-3, 13-16 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 Mark 4:26-34 June 21- 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time Job 38:1, 8-11 Psalms 107:23-26, 28-31 2 Corinthians 5:14-17 Mark 4:35-41

June 28- 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24 Psalms 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11-13

Catholic by Grace

2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15 Mark 5:21-43

by Denise Bossert www.catholicbygrace.blogspot.com

July 5- 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Ezekiel 2:2-5 Psalms PS 123:1-4 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Mark 6:1-6

A little wonder and awe

For daily and Sunday readings, as well as a daily reflection video, visit www.usccb.org/bible/readings.   Brought to you by:

St. Ann Parish, Hochheim, and the St. Ann KJZT #37 sponsored the annual spring fundraiser. The goal was to raise enough funding to have a small storage building built at the parish. Ruby Wigginton, society president, and society members present a check to Fr. Matthew Huehlefeld, pastor of St. Ann’s. As evidence of the success, society officers and members stand in the doorway of the building as it nears completion. KJZT #37 has been integral in the preservation and maintenance of the parish for generations. The little church on the prairie boasts a dedicated and generous flock who lovingly care for the picturesque church!

I spend a lot of time trying to figure out how to get the most out of this faith journey. How to go about it. How to open myself up to Jesus Christ. How to engage the faith like a saint. I mull it over. I am not certain it is the right approach anymore. It seems more efficient to just be docile, like falling into the swimming pool on that old Nestea commercial. Don’t try to figure it all out. Just give yourself to it, with abandon. It is a pilgrimage, not a vacation.Vacations are planned, mapped out, budgeted, mulled over. You hit the road and argue about when to stop and where to eat. “You decide.” “No, you decide.” “But I’m not hungry yet.” “Well, I am.” “I have to go to the bathroom.” “But, we just stopped.” “That was to get something to drink and that’s why I have to go to the bathroom.” “If we keep having pit stops, we’ll never get there.” We spend our time bickering about details and worrying about the unforeseen eventsand very little goes as planned. The magical moments, those moments we will remember and cherish 20 years from now, those are almost always the moments we did not see coming. The ice cream cone on our last night. The insomnia that sent us to the window where we had a midnight view of Lake Michigan. The afternoon nap in Florida that wasn’t planned, but came so full and so deep that we woke up and wondered where we were. Like when we were children. In the moment our vacation takes us where we did not plan, it looks more like a pilgrimage- and that is when we realize we really needed a pilgrimage and not a vacation in the first place. A spiritual Nestea plunge. Into the arms of Christ. Maybe that is the point. Summer vacations, like life, need to make room for pilgrimage moments. A pilgrimage is about giving up control. It is about opening up the soul.It is about expecting nothing and receiving everything. It is about letting God dot the “I” and cross the “T.” Faith likes a bit of willy nilly, a bit of waiting. A little wonder and awe. A little wonder and awe at ice cream. At long drives. At Mass in rural America at a church we have never seen and will probably never see again. Like being a disciple and walking from Capernaum to Cana with no expectations. It is the moment when you taste the best wine you ever had and you realize grace showed. Vacations can be the best of times or the worst of times. I think it is one of the sadder things we, as Americans, spend so much money on something that magnifies the worst we have to offer one another, the very ones we are supposed to love the most. Like children in the backseat. “There. That’s your half. Stay on your side.” “Hey, Dad, are we almost there?” “No, son. We are already there. This is there.” There is joy in discovering Jesus Christ in the ‘now’ of it.

Feast of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Pope Francis rever ences a statue of Mary June 27 at the conclusion of

Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival Meal

Sunday, June 14, 2015

Bay City, TX Parish Hall (12th Street and Ave. D)

Brisket Dinner Auction • 11:30 a.m.

Door Prize Drawing every half hour begins at 11:30 a.m.

60

Dine-in / Pick-up / Drive-thru

Ave. D

11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. • $8 p/p.

12th St.

35

the canonization Mass for 4 new saints in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican last month. He canonized four 19th-century nuns. The new saints are: Marie-Alphonsine and Mary of Jesus Crucified, both from historic Palestine; Jeanne Emilie De Villeneuve from France; and Maria Cristina Brando from Italy. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

DIOCESE

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 7 — June 2015

Fr. Joe, 50 years Continued from page 1 Assisting those in need

The Catholic parishes of Holy Family, Wharton; Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Wharton; and St. Joseph Mission, Boling, were challenged to provide 40 hours of service and donate at least 400 pounds of food and personal care items to the St. Vincent de Paul Society during this past Lenten season. The Holy Trinity Conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society ministers to those in financial need throughout the greater Wharton area and is a joint venture of the 3 parishes. Society members and parish volunteers documented the number of service hours and weighed the food and personal care item donations. More than 100 hours of service and 3,405 pounds of food and personal care items were donated by parishioners and ready to stock on the shelves of the society which operates out of Holy Family Church. “Unbelievable! Amazing! Blessed!” responded Fr. Bob Knippenberg, pastor of Holy Family Church and St. Joseph Mission, upon learning of the totals. “We asked for 40 hours of service and 400 pounds of goods and the parishioners went into ‘generosity overdrive.’ I am very proud of them and their response to those in our community who are in need. They take our Lord’s teaching in the Gospel according to St. Matthew very seriously: ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me’ (Mt 25:40).” He added, “I’m not really surprised, though. Our Christmas parish project was to collect enough money to purchase 1 pair of goats for each of the 12 days of Christmas. The goats would provide poor and needy families in developing countries throughout the world with a highly sustainable means of providing for themselves. By the end of the Christmas season, we had collected enough funds to actually donate not 12 goat pairs, but 72 goat pairs!” David Rivera, society president, stated, “We are very grateful to the Catholic parishes of Wharton and Boling for choosing us for their Lenten parish project this year. We could not fulfill our mission to serve those in need in the greater Wharton area without their kind and very generous support.”

Students in the St. Joseph High School (STJ), Victoria, Marianist Life Community joined KC #1329 in their 40 Cans for Lent Food Drive. Students encouraged classmates to bring non-perishable food items to support the St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Mary's, Our Lady of Lourdes, and Our Lady of Victory. Working together, students at STJ donated nearly 2,100 pounds of food.



Helping those less fortunate

Fr. Joe celebrated his 75th birthday on Dec. 21, 2014.

their only child. On Feb. 20, 1983, he celebrated the occasion of his parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. Fr. Joseph Vrana, known by all as Fr. Joe, was first assigned as temporary assistant at St. Mary's Cathedral in Galveston. In Jan. 1975, he was assigned as associate pastor of Holy Cross, Bay City. He served the parish for 4 years; serving as director of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, chaplain of the Knights of Columbus (KCs), and the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO). He became active in the community serving as a Matagorda County juvenile probation officer. On Feb. 8, 2001, he was named ‘Pastor of the Day’ of the 77th legislative session in Austin. He also served on the Western Deanery Diocesan Council of Catholic Women and the Archdiocesan Galveston-Houston Marriage Policy Committee. He was appointed administrator of Holy Cross, East Bernard, in July 1975 and named pastor on Jan. 1, 1977, serving the parish for 10 1/2 years. On June 8, 1988, he was pastor of Holy Family, Wharton, and St. Joseph’s Mission, Boling. In 2006, he was pastor of St. Mary’s, Nada, as well as St. John’s, New Taiton. At St. Mary’s, he is chaplain of the KCs, Confraternity of Christian Mother’s Society, Nada K.J.T., K.J.Z.T. Society #17, Catholic Life Insurance, and CDA Court #1595. He enjoys deer and bird hunting as well as fishing and gardening. With the help of his beloved Aunt Jane Cyva, he helped restore a 194.0 model Farmall “B” tractor. Last month, on May 29, 2015, he celebrated his 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. To Love as God Loves–This marriage preparation program is for couples 40 and over, couples seeking convalidation, and couples seeking a second marriage and beyond. Upcoming date: Sept. 27. For more information, brochure, or registration form, visit www.victoriadiocese.org.

The KJZT #101 Bake Sale at Holy Family Catholic Church, Victoria, raised funds for the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent. Each dollar raised helped to provide 8 meals. Presenting a $2,000 check to provide 160,000 meals are left to right: Irene Brosch, Robin Cadle, president/CEO of the Food Bank; Carolyn Nevlud, and Rosie Olsovsky.

I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. ~John 6:35

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 8 — June 2015

NEWS

CRS joins World Bank and Faith Community Statement to end extreme poverty by 2030

by Tom Price/ Catholic Relief Services (CRS) More than 30 leaders from major world religions and heads of global faith-based organizations, including Catholic Relief Services (CRS), launched a clarion call to action to end extreme poverty by 2030, a goal shared by the World Bank Group. Ending Extreme Poverty: A Moral and Spiritual Imperative notes that remarkable progress has been made in reducing extreme poverty. In the last 25 years, the number of people living in extreme poverty has declined from nearly 2 billion people to fewer than 1 billion. Now, for the first time in human history, the capacity and moral responsibility exists so no one has to live in extreme poverty’s grip. “We have ample evidence from the World Bank Group and others showing that we can now end extreme poverty within 15 years,” the Moral Imperative notes. “In 2015, our governments will be deciding upon a new global sustainable development agenda that has the potential to build on our shared values to finish the urgent task of ending extreme poverty. We, in the faith community, embrace this moral imperative because we share the belief that the moral test of our society is how the weakest and most vulnerable are faring. Our sacred texts also call us to combat injustice and uplift the poorest in our midst.” According to Bill O’Keefe, vice president for advocacy and government relations at CRS, “We believe ending extreme poverty is practically possible and morally imperative. Through our work in almost 100 countries, we are committed to reaching over 150 million of the most vulnerable people by 2018. We are also committed to engaging 10 million people in our own country to act against global poverty. We are proud to join in this comprehensive effort to end extreme poverty.” As Pope Francis said in a 2013 meeting with students of Jesuit schools, “The times talk to us of so much poverty in the world and this is a scandal. Poverty in the world is a scandal. In a world where there is so much wealth, so many resources to feed everyone, it is unfathomable that there are so many hungry children, that there are so many children without an education, so many poor persons. Poverty today is a cry.” The Moral Imperative seeks to generate the necessary social and political will and inspire greater commitments from others to join in this cause. It taps into shared convictions and beliefs that unify the world’s major religions around the call and responsibility to combat poverty. The statement arose from the World Bank’s Faith Based and Religious Leaders Roundtable held earlier this year, the first high-level meeting between World Bank Group president Jim Yong Kim and faith leaders.

Community members in Wajir County fetch safe water from a community-managed water kiosk constructed by CRS through the Kenya Arid Land Disaster Risk Reduction program, which received funding from U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The kiosk, which has 3 taps to reduce time spent waiting in line, protects the water fittings against vandalism and unauthorized access to water. (CRS/ Styvers Kathuni)



Have you helped someone in need today?

Early beginings: 1892

Church celebrates

years

Dedication of first church: July 24, 1892

Dedication of present church: May 16, 1965 Patronal feast: Jan. 21

Second church: ca. 1925 St. Agnes Catholic Church, Edna

Throughout 1880 and 1891 the home of Captain John E. Billups of Edna was used by various priests, from Victoria and El Campo, to celebrate Mass with Catholic families. In 1892, the first Catholic church was built under the supervision of Fr. W.G. Henderson. St. Agnes was dedicated on July 24, 1892 by Fr. Lawrence Wyer, rector of the seminary in Victoria. He remained in charge unil 1895 when he was succeeded by: St. Agnes pastors Fr. W.E. Heffernan: 1896-99 Fr. G. J. Hendricks: 1900-08 Fr. Vossenkuhl: 1908 Fr.. W.E. Heffernan: 1909-10 Fr. P.J. Crane: 1911-12 Fr. P.J. Schnetzer: 1912-14; in 1913 the first rectory was built 1914-19: several priests visited, but were not permanent pastors, including: J.J. Keiffer, A. Wensorra, Francis Havel, and Peter Baquet Fr. Bevin, Fr. Tarralellas, and Fr. Karnowski: 1919-25 Fr. J.W. Smiers: 1925-42 Fr. Buckley Fr. Balthasar ‘Balty’ Janacek: 1955-62; in 1957 new rectory was built; in 1958 parish school was established Fr. Stanley Petru: 1962-69; in 1964 school building was remodeled; building of present-day church dedicated in May 1965 by Msgr. J.L. Manning Fr. Thomas Flanagan: 1969-72 Fr. William Halata: 1972-74 Msgr. Raymond Garcia Bishop Hugo Gerbermann: 1975; addition to rectory was built Msgr. Joseph Hybner: 1977-85; RE Center constructed and dedicated on April 13, 1980 by Archbishop Flores Msgr. Michael O’Shaughnessy: 1985-2007 Fr. Michael Petering: 2007-current In 1925, the church was destroyed by a fire and a second churh was built by Fr. J.W. Smiers. In 1949, a parish hall was erected and improvements were made to the rectory. After 9 years of existence, the parish school was closed in 1967. The rectory was destroyed by fire in Feb. 1987, but by May 6, 1988 the beautiful new rectory was completed and blessed by Bishop Charles V. Grahmann. A new parish gymnasium was built in 1998 and dedicated on Dec. 19, 1998 by Bishop Emeritus David E. Fellhauer. In the Spring of 2000 the extension of the Blessed Sacrament Chapel was added, bringing the seating capacity to 40. The church roof was replaced in Oct. 2003. The plans for renovation of the church began late 2004 and the church was renovated by April 2005. Remodeling included changing the whole color decorum, new ceiling and new lights, and an addition of 2 entrance porches and a large entry foyer.

Shouldn’t your ad be in color?



Last month, parishioners of St. Agnes, Edna, celebrated the 50th anniversary of the present church. Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer officiated at the Mass of Thanksgiving. Concelebrants were Msgr. Joseph Hybner, Fr. Michael Petering, pastor of St. Agnes, Fr. Antonio Perez, and Deacon Wally Rodriquez. Following the Mass, approximately 140 guests and parishioners enjoyed a catered meal and shared memories. Additional special guests in attendance included Sr. Leonita Barron, IWBS, and Sr. Amata Hollas, IWBS, both originally from St. Agnes parish; and Sr. Lois Marie Etzler, IWBS. It was a thankful, blessed, beautiful, and joyful occasion for all!

CRS launches partnership with Catholic high schools by Susan Walters/ Catholic Relief Services (CRS)

It’s a big world out there. As Pope Francis has often repeated, it’s a world Catholics are called into to serve their neighbors with the numerous gifts they have at their disposal. One such gift is knowledge- and to help youth become more internationally aware and globally responsive, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is teaming up with Catholic high schools in a unique partnership called the CRS Global High School Program. Carolyn Woo, president and CEO of Catholic Relief Services, announced the partnership at the National Conference of Catholic Educators. “Drawing from our experience overseas, CRS has developed resources to help Catholics pursue a lifelong relationship with our brothers and sisters around the world, to better understand how Catholic teaching calls us to serve others as we gain a deeper understanding of our place in the human family,” said Carolyn Woo. “For young people, the CRS Global High School Initiative, with its inventive See CRS launches program, pg. 13

DIOCESE

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 9 — June 2015

Parishioners make donations The Bowers, parishioners of St. Anthony of Padua, Palacios, made vital donations to the diocese of Victoria and their parish. The donations included one towards seminarian education in memory of Msgr. Michael Harrold and Mr. Bowers’ sister, Sr. Denise Bowers; one towards the retirement of priests and nuns in honor of the priests and nuns from St. Anthony, Palacios; and one towards St. Anthony of Padua parish. Left to right: Fr. Gary Janak, diocesan administrator, chancellor, and pastor at OLV; Cheryl Bowers, Bishop-Elect Brendan Cahill; Harold Bowers; Bishop Emeritus David Fellhauer; and Fr. Bryan Heyer, pastor of St. Anthony, Palacios. CLASS of 2015

Congratulations to the Diocese of Victoria Catholic High Schools’ 2015 Top Graduates!

St. Joseph High School, Victoria • Sacred Heart, Hallettsville • Shiner Catholic School

Madison Ashley Hoang Valedictorian/ National Merit Finalist Parents: Dr. Paul Hoang and Dr. Lucy Nguyen

Hannah Christine Boozalis Salutatorian/ National Merit Finalist Parents: Dr. George and Mrs. Debbie Boozalis

Taylor Morgan Opela Valedictorian Parents: Mr. Keith Opela and Mrs. Susan Opela

Kristin Brianne Popp Salutatorian Parents: Mr. Brian Popp and Mrs. Lori Popp

Kurt Jacob Chunda Salutatorian Parents: Mr. Jeff Chunda and Mrs. Anne Chunda

Kyle John Chunda Valedictorian Parents: Mr. Jeff Chunda and Mrs. Anne Chunda

Sarah Craig Eastham Historian/ National Merit Finalist Parents: Mr. Donald Eastham and Mrs. Amy Eastham

Scott Ryan Huser Historian Parents: Mr. Fred Huser and Mrs. Debra Huser

Emily Marie Malinovsky Historian Parents: Mr. Michael Malinovsky and Mrs. Peggy Malinovsky

YOUTH

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 10 — June 2015

Blessings at Sacred Heart

Sacred Heart Catholic School (SHCS), Hallettsville, announced Kevin Haas will take over as principal. Haas ia a 1999 graduate of Sacred Heart and will replace long-time principal, David Smolik who is retiring after 31 years of service. Left to right: Fr. Barnabas Kyeah, parochial vicar of Sacred Heart Catholic Church; Msgr. John Peters, pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church; Kevin Haas, new principal of SHCS; John Quary, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Victoria; and David Smolik, retiring principal of SHCS. Photo courtesy of Jimmy Appelt/Tribune-Herald.

Thankful for Catholic education

The Holy Family KC Council #9088, Victoria, sponsored the 17th Annual Catholic Schools Appreciation Dinner last month. Administration, faculty, and staff from Our Lady of Victory School, Nazareth Academy, and St. Joseph High School were honored. Harvey Kocian, grand knight, thanked the educators and audience of 175 people which included school officals, KC members and spouses, for their dedication to Catholic education. Fr. Gary Janak, diocesan chancellor and pastor of OLV, spoke of how grateful he was for those who have invested in Catholic education. He stated, “Our teachers are the unsung heroes and we say thank you for the many contributions and efforts.” Also, in attendance was Bishop Emeritus David Fellhauer. He added, “A Catholic education pays dividends for life.”

The Catholic Schools Office Library Committee, left to right: Tammy Grabarkievtz, Shiner Catholic School; Michelle Wilson, St. Philip School, El Campo; Leah Wagner, Shiner Catholic School; Kathy Anderle, Our Lady of the Gulf, Port Lavaca; Barbara Schroeder, St. Rose of Lima, Schulenburg; Amy Heffrey, St. Anothony, Columbus; Audrey Sauer, St. Michael, Cuero; Liliane Janda, Nazareth Academy, Victoria; Norma Smolik, Our Lady of Victory, Victoria; Mita Bossley, Holy Cross, Bay City; and Debra Studer, St. Joseph High School, Victoria.

LIBRARY & MEDIA CENTER Summer Fun Days



WEDNESDAYS AT 10:00 A.M.

Office hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

D*

ELE JUNE 10, 2015 JUNE CANC24, 2015 JULY 8, 2015 JULY 22, 2015 CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT (Parent or Legal Guardian).

Summer is just around the corner and the kids will be out of school... what will you do? Bring them to the Library located on the 2nd floor at the Chancery at 1505 E. Mesquite Lane, Victoria, TX, 77901! During the months of June and July children can enjoy a faith-based movie, participate in an activity, and have a healthy snack for FREE! Come, join us! *Cancellation due to preparation for Bishop Ordination. For more information, contact Margaret Pruett at (361) 573-0828 x2224, catecheticalsec@ victoriadiocese.org, or visit www.victoriadiocese.org.

Also, at SHCS, Hallettsville, Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer blessed several additions and renovations to the school and parish including a gazebo in memory of Rebecca and Julie Steffek, two young students killed in an accident two years ago; a prayer garden in memory of Carolyn Hermes Dworsky and Terry Mitchon Bludau, two deceased alumni and mothers who died of cancer; and the Ten Commandements Monument. Left to right: David Smolik, Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer, Kevin Haas, Msgr. John Peters, Sr. Colette Kouba, IWBS, and Sr. Emiliana Grafe, IWBS.

Meet a Catholic School Principal (a TCL series) I was born in McAllen, TX. I lived in challenge. the McAllen/Mission area all of my life. I In the 2015-16 school year, I hope to was raised in a Catholic family with deepbe a strong instructional leader. I hope I rooted faith. I was a member of will be an influence of growth. Our Lady of Sorrows parish. Studnets deserve to not only meet When I married my husband, expectations for standards of eduTony, I became a member of cation, but to surpass them. We Our Lady of Guadalupe, Misare preparing children for a future sion. that is exciting and wide open. I was the principal at James We must influence our children Bonham Elementary in McAlwith the values of faith that will len until June 2014. Bonham guide them as they meet future Elementary is an Internationchallenges. al Baccalaureate (IB) The most important Jennifer Saenz World School ® . Stuthing about being a prinSt. Michael, Cuero dents in the 21st century cipal is knowing the reare faced with the chalsponsibility that God has lenge of learning about an interconnected given me. As a community of educators, world where knowledge is constantly deparents, caregivers, and spiritual leaders, veloping. The Primary Years Programme we have the most important asset for our prepares students to be active participants future in our hands. It is very important in a lifelong journey of learning. This is that we use every day wisely to build our my 23rd year in education. I have a Maschildren into the dynamic, knowledgeable, ters degree in Education in the area of caring, spiritual leaders of tomorrow. The reading, a Bachelors degree in Interdiscimost interesting part of being a principal is plinary Studies for Elementary Education, getting to know every student. A principal and a minor in Special Education. who loves their children in a school will I have wanted to be a principal for a never lack being loved back. It is the very Catholic school for several years. I feel best medicine. that as my faith has grown, God has called I live in Port Lavaca with my 3 boxers, me to serve him through what I knowMikey, Charlie, and Benny. They keep my education. I love working with young life active and interesting. People who people and am very excited to get to know have dogs, know this: dogs are God’s great the children and families of St. Michael’s gift to humans. They love us unconditionSchool, Cuero. My husband passed away ally. My daughter and her husband live very unexpectedly last year and it caused near me and I cook dinner for them most me to re-evaluate life. Being close to famevenings. It is a win-win situation because ily and following my heart have become they help me with chores at my house. very important to me. I know God’s plan My son lives in San Antonio. Education was for me to move and to start this new has always been a big part of our family.



DIOCESE

Year of Consecrated Life (a TCL series)

The Family and Vocations

by Sr. M. Amata Hollas, IWBS On the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, we all gathered together in our chapel at Incarnate Word Convent for a Holy Hour for Vocations. We joined our prayers with all of those around the world who were praying for vocations on this day. As we prayed, I was remembering St. Agnes, my home parish in Edna. Fr. David Buckley was named pastor in 1942, the year we moved to Edna. He greatly encouraged vocations; we had perpetual adoration and prayed especially for vocations. I remember sometimes going with my Mom from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesdays or going with my Dad for adoration from 11:00 p.m. to midnight. And, as a family at home, we prayed to the Lord of the Harvest “to send laborers into the harvest.” It was through the St. Agnes parish community that my parents, Albert and Ann Hollas, received the help and guidance to become a domestic church with their 5 children, as described in Lumen Gentium, #11: “The family is, so to speak, the domestic church. In it parents should, by their word and example, be the first preachers of the faith to their children; they should encourage them in the vocation which is proper to each of them, fostering with special care vocation to a sacred state.” As we celebrate this Year of Consecrated Life we are also bonding with the Synod of Bishops as they address the family. Pope Francis will join with tens of thousands of people from around the world, in Philadelphia for the 8th annual World Meeting of Families Sept. 22-27, 2015. The theme, chosen by Pope Francis, is Love is our Mission: The Family Fully Alive. The family which experiences the joy of faith communicates it naturally. That family is the salt of the earth and the light of the world; it is the leaven of society. ~Pope Francis

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 11 — June 2015

In memory

Sr. Elaine Braden, 93, of Victoria, died May 28, 2015. She was born Feb. 13, 1922, in Mentz to Rochus G. and Louise Wendel Braden. She was a Catholic and a member of the Sisters of the IWBS. She received her elementary education at Mentz Public School and then attended Jones Creek School until 9th grade. She graduated from El Campo High School in 1940. She entered Nazareth Convent Sept. 5, 1943 and became a postulant on Dec. 8, 1943. She received the habit of the Sisters of the IWBS on Aug. 27, 1944 and made her first profession of vows on Aug. 28, 1945. She was awarded a B.A. degree with a major in English and a minor in Spanish from Incarnate Word College and received a Permanent Texas Elementary Teacher Certificate. She served as educator in the following schools: Sts. Cyril and Methodius School, Cistern; Sts. Peter and Paul School, Frelsburg; Hostyn School near La Grange; Holy Trinity School, Corn Hill; Sacred Heart School, Hallettsville; Sacred Heart School, La

Grange; and Nazareth Academy, Victoria. She also served as librarian at Nazareth Academy for 11 years. After moving to Incarnate Word Convent in 1998, she assisted in the Gift Shop, the Portress Office, and dining room. In 2012, she was placed in the healthcare area on oxygen and her ministry as convent librarian continued until the day she died. She enjoyed playing cards and continued reaching out to others through her loving communication and beautiful smile. She was preceded in death by her parents, a baby brother, her brothers Msgr. Leroy Braden and Leonard Braden, brother/ sister-in-law Leon and Mary Lee Braden, her sister/brother-in-law Mary Louise and Martin Hacker. Survivors include her brother/sisterin-law William and Connie Braden and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She will be buried at Catholic Cemetery No. 3. Memorials may be made to Incarnate Word Convent, Hospice of South Texas, or donor's choice.

On the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, Sisters of IWBS pray during the Holy Hour for Vocations prayer service. A Prayer To Know One's Vocation Lord, my God and my loving Father, you have made me to know you, to love you, to serve you, and thereby to find and to fulfill my deepest longings. I know that you are in all things, and that every path can lead me to you. But of them all, there is one especially by which you want me to come to you. Since I will do what you want of me, I pray you, send your Holy Spirit to me: into my mind, to show me what you want of me; into my heart, to give me the determination to do it, and to do it with all my love, with all my mind, and with all of my strength right to the end. Jesus, I trust in you. Amen.

B What is religious life about? Find out by taking a virtual journey and exploring resources to help discover your calling. Visit www.LifeAsASister.org.

FAITH & FAMILY

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 12 — June 2015

Ministries • Ongoing Activities

B

A

OLV receives national recognition

As featured in the April issue, Our Lady of Victory Catholic School, Victoria, was selected as 1 of 14 schools in the U.S. to receive the 2015 Innovations in Catholic Education Award from Today’s Catholic Teacher. The Innovative Project in Total Community Involvement Award was given to OLV for their Parent Aide System Program. (A) Left to right: Dr. Linda Stuart, OLV assistant principal, Kathy Bruno, 7th grade teacher, Sr. Laura Toman, OLV principal, and Diana Kubenka, 6th grade teacher. (B) At the (NCEA) Conference in Orlando, FL, Sr. Laura Toman accepted the award which also included a 5-pound bar of chocolate from The World’s Finest Chocolate Co., a book for each student at OLV from Pflaum Publishing, a cloth school bag from Lands’ End, and (as shown above) a large banner for the school provided by contest sponsors. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!

~Psalms 31:24

Be informed on issues of importance to Catholics in our state- becoming a member of the Texas Catholic Network is easy! For more information, visit www.txcatholic.org, or www.faithfulcitizenship.org.

Kenneth J. French, Sr. 1501 E Mockingbird, Ste 102 Victoria, TX 77901 (361) 576-0178

Catholic Family Services–To find Catholic organizations which focus on family, visit the Catholic Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers at www.nacflm.org. Courage–Ministers to persons with same-sex attractions and their loved ones. The ministry also has an outreach, EnCourage, which ministers to relatives, spouses, and friends of persons with same-sex attractions. It is a Roman Catholic Apostolate endorsed by the Pontifical Council for the Family. For more information, visit www.couragerc.net. Engaged Encounter–Aug. 28-30 and Oct. 16-18. Registrations are on a first come, first serve basis. Fee must accompany registration form. For more information, call (361) 573-0828 x2230 or visit www.victoriadiocese.org. Gabriel Project–Helps women experiencing a crisis pregnancy- an alternative to abortion. Meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at 101 W. Convent. Light supper included. For angel workshop/training dates, contact Barbara at (361) 6491612 or [email protected]. Holy Family, Wharton, meetings are the 4th Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Sts. Peter and Paul, Meyersville, meetings are the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call (979) 532-3593, M-F, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or visit www.gabrielproject.com. Grief Ministry–Meetings are the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in conference/brides’ room at Holy Family Church, Victoria. Before attending, call Sharon at (361) 578-7572. Hospice of South Texas–Volunteer to provide continuity of inpatient care, home care, and bereavement services. Free grief support group meetings are the 2nd Monday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in Victoria and the 4th Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in Hallettsville. For more information, call 1(800) 874–6908, (361) 572-4300, or visit www.hospiceofsouthtexas.org. Incarnate Word Prayer Group–Praise and worship on Mondays 7:30-9:00 p.m. in the Auditorium at Incarnate Word Convent, 1101 N.E. Water Street. For more information, contact Sr. Louise Marie Jones at (361) 575-7111 or [email protected]. Marriage Encounter–This program is no longer offered in the Diocese of Victoria. Replacing it is Retrouvaille (see below). To find a Marriage Encounter weekend outside of the diocese, visit www.wwme.org. Natural Family Planning–NFP is the only church-approved form of family planning. To learn about the sympto-thermal method in the Victoria area and NFP class schedules, contact David and Annie Coffey at [email protected]. In Wharton, contact Susanne Koch at (505) 710-0903 or [email protected]. Raphael’s Refuge–RR’s mission is to build and maintain a memorial in honor of babies, born and unborn. It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Flatonia. Peer counseling and spiritual direction are available for those suffering a loss of a baby due to miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death, or abortion. For more information, visit www. raphaelsrefuge.org. Retrouvaille–Retrouvaille, meaning rediscovery, is a marriage-healing ministry offered in the diocese to couples in difficult marriages. Contact John and Jennifer Vincent at [email protected] or (361) 580-2770; call (800) 470-2230; or visit www. helpourmarriage.org or www.retrouvaille.org. St. Francis and St. Clare Fraternity/Secular Franciscans–For dates, contact Mary Ann LeBlanc at (361) 575-1858 or visit www.lostrescompaneros-sfo.org. Before a diocesan Safety Environment’s policy and procedures training class, several parishioners were in the parish hall of Queen of the Holy Rosary, Hostyn, making noodles for the Hostyn Mayfest last month. The process involved several dozen eggs and dough rolling. Drying racks were used and the long pieces were shredded for packaging. The Hostyn Noodle Makers make homemade noodles which are donated to several church festivals in Hostyn, Plum, Cistern, and Praha. Left to r i g h t : Ve r l e n e Kuntschik and Gloria Heinrich, both parishioners of Queen of the Holy Rosary, Hostyn.



YOUTH

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 13 — June 2015

Puzzle contest

www.victoriadiocese.org

Wendy Eggert, director • Ryan Leos, associate director (361) 573-0828 • [email protected] Summer activities: Jr. High Sessions (students entering 6th or finishing 8th grade. Session I June 14-16 • Session II June 17-19 • $65 per person includes food and lodging for 2 nights. (Both sessions are CLOSED, waiting lists available!) Permission and medical release forms are required of everyone attending the retreat. Space is limited to 50 participants. Registration will close when this number is reached. A $15 NONREFUNDABLE DEPOSIT is required to secure a space. This deposit is considered part of the registration fee; thus the balance due after the deposit is $50. To order a 2015 Camp David t-shirt, include an additional $10 with the deposit and indicate size. Elementary Session (students entering 3rd & 5th grades) June 17 • $15 includes food and all crafts supplies. Permission and medical release forms are required of everyone attending the retreat. Space is limited and will close when spots are filled. To order a 2015 Camp David t-shirt, include an additional $10 with payment and indicate size. Discipleship Week • June 22-25. Registration forms can be found on the diocesan website under Youth & Young Adult Ministry as well as other forms needed to attend this retreat by NET Ministries. Rocky Mountain High Retreat • July 4-12, 2015 • Pagosa Springs, Colorado.

CRS launches partnership with Catholic high schools Continued from page 9

(979) 543-6941

Shouldn’t your ad be in this issue?

introduction to global topics, helps begin that lifelong journey. CRS has similar programs with Catholic universities that engage students and faculty with the poor overseas. Such partnerships are among the ingredients that distinguish Catholic education in the U.S.” Since beginning the pilot in 2011, teachers and administrators along with CRS staff have worked together to create a rich and relevant collection of resources schools can use to introduce and explore the concepts of global solidarity with their students. Lesson plans, prayer services, and school-wide events have been designed and tested by the 14 pilot schools across the country. What makes the program special is that the topics of social justice and global solidarity are not limited to one department, but rather are designed to be integrated into all aspects of the schools’ academic, religious, and social life. The entire school community- administrators, faculty, staff, students, and parents can engage in planning and implementing the components of the program. Catholic high schools can sign up to participate at introductory and beginning levels called silver and gold levels. There is no cost to the schools to participate or use the CRS Global High School Program resources. For more information, visit www.ghs.crs.org.

Name: Address: Phone number: Parish: Age, if 18 or under: The winner of the June contest will win Pope Francis and Our Call to Joy by Diane Houdek. Like his namesake, St. Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis discovers joy in a personal encounter with Christ in the Gospels. By reflecting on the pope’s example and words, you

will transform your own life and relationships. If you have not won the puzzle contest within the past 6 months, please mail a completed June puzzle form by June 26, 2015 to The Catholic Lighthouse, P.O. Box 4070, Victoria, TX 77903 for a chance to win!

Tune in to what kids watch!

The Family Guide to Using Media offers a list of valuable resources and actions that can help parents. For more information, click on the Use Your Intelligence Communications link at www.usccb.org. Respect Human Beings and the Family

Apply Gospel Values

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 14 — June 2015

FAITH & FAMILY

Congratulations

to adult faith formation graduates Six parishioners from the Diocese of Victoria recently completed the Instituto de Formación Pastoral/Pastoral Formation Institute (IFP/PFI), a 2-year basic adult faith formation and skills for ministry program. Graduates successfully fulfilled requirements to receive a Certificate of Pastoral Formation from the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, TX. In 2010, OST received a generous grant to disseminate funds into a media package provided to all rural parish communities in the San Antonio Archdiocese. The Oblates recognized this opportunity to provide an adult formation program to our large and extended rural communities. Ministry formation is important for the purpose of serving the faith community and spreading the word of God has been a significant part of the Oblates mission since coming to Texas in the 19th century. IFP/PFI was created in 1985 in order to reach out to people who might not ordinarily attend a graduate school of theology for training and it was also designed to be taught in both the English and Spanish languages.The format of the 2-year program is flexible. Course offerings include an emphasis on academic and human formation in year 1 and spiritual and pastoral formation in year 2. IFP/ PFI seeks to mourish a mature faith that is ‘living, explicit, and fruitful.’ It is a program of basic adult faith formation providing foundational understandings of the Catholic faith, spiritual formation in the rich traditions of prayer and spirituality in the Church, and an introduction to the basic skills of lay ministry. For more information, call (210) 341-1366 or visit www.ost.edu. For more information on our diocesan Summer Short Term Program, see Echoes of Faith above or visit the Pastoral Institute site under the Ministries tab at www.victoriadiocese.org. Left to right: Sharon Patek, Sts. Cyril & Methodius, Shiner; Lindsey Morkovsky, Sts. Cyril & Methodius, Shiner; and Michael Morkovsky, Sts. Cyril & Methodius, Shiner.

PASTORAL INSTITUTE Short Term Program

Echoes of Faith 3.0 is being made available through funds from the Capital Campaign at NO COST to catechists and parish catechetical leaders in the Diocese of Victoria. Register for a free one-year subscription at www.victoriadiocese.org (home page scroll down to the Echoes link). For more information, contact Christella Alvarez at (361) 827-7171, [email protected] or Sherry Kainer at (361) 573-0828 x2223, [email protected].

Catolicismo

(Programa de 10 semanas) Cada miércoles del 3 de junio hasta 29 de julio De 6:00 p.m. hasta las 8:00 p.m. Edificio de Cancillería, 1505 E. Mesquite Lane, Victoria (detrás de la Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Victoria) La Oficina del Ministerio Catequético estará ofreciendo el programa Catolicismo en español. Catolicismo es un programa de formación de adultos. Ha sido creado para realizar y apoyar la misión de la Iglesia de evangelizar y enseñar el contenido de la fe. Este programa explica no solo aquello en que los católicos creen y porqué lo hacen, sino que también presenta a través de un asombroso nivel de detalle visual la riqueza de la cultura global de la Iglesia. Todos los adultos son invitados a participar en estas clases. Padres de familia, parejas casadas, mujeres y hombres solteros, jóvenes adultos (18 años o mayores), catequistas, los que participan en otros ministerios y cualquier otra persona que guste asistir. Una donación de $10 para el programa de 10 semanas. Se puede entregar en la primera clase. Para obtener más información, si tiene alguna pregunta o le gustaría registrarse por teléfono, por favor llama Margaret Pruett al (361) 573-0828.

St. Mary’s Parish Picnic Sunday, June 14, 2015 1836-2015

Left to right: Maribel and Elías F l o re s , S a c re d Heart, Flatonia; Fr. Eddie Winkler, pastor of Sacred Heart, Flatonia and Sts. Cyril and Methodius, Cistern, and Pedro Hernandez, Sacred Heart, Flatonia.

Food:

179 years

Beer • Popcorn • Soda Snow cones • Hamburgers Ice Cream • Kolaches and more!

SAVE THE DATE!

XXVIII Annual Conference for Catechesis and Ministry Safeguarding the Dignity of Every Human Person October 24, 2015 Holy Family Catholic Church • Wharton, TX The day-long conference will include keynote presentations and a variety of workshops in English and Spanish.

Games: Bingo • Ball Throw Ring Toss • Cake & Plant Walk • Train Ride Fish Pond • Country Store w/Arts & Crafts, Canned Goods, etc.

St. Mary’s Parish Hall Hallettsville, TX Mass 9:15 a.m. Meal begins at 10:30 a.m.

Featuring special St. Mary’s stew & sausage & all the trimmings Music: 10:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Plates: $9 p/p. Texas Sound Czech (10:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.) Dine-in or drive-thru.

Tony Janak (2:00-5:30 p.m.) Red Ravens (5:30-9:00 p.m.)

Auction: 1:00 p.m.

EVENTS

Special collection Peter’s Pence Collection for the Holy Father- June 28

TCL submission deadlines

Meals • Picnics and more

Bay City–Our Lady of Guadalupe Festival June 14 at the Parish Hall. Brisket dinner. 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $ 8 p/p. 11:30 a.m. auction. See ad on pg.6. East Bernard–Czech Kolache Klobase Festival June 13 at Riverside Hall. 10:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Sausage and BBQ chicken plates available at 11:00 a.m. Admission is $8 p/p. Children 12 and under are free. Sponsored by KJT St. Wenceslaus Society #40. For more information, call (979) 335-7907 or visit www.kkfest.com. Port Lavaca–CDA Court Our Lady of the Gulf #2267 Games Party June 14 at St. Jude’s Hall. 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. $7 entry fee. Bring a card game, dominoes, or board game to play while enjoying refreshments. There will be door prizes, a raffle, and silent auction. For reservations, contact Margaret Hilscher at (361) 552-3233, Doris Winter at (361) 987-2387, or Georgia Mikosh at (361) 552-6844. Plum–Sts. Peter & Paul Parish 118th Annual Celebration June 28. 10:00 a.m. Mass. 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fried chicken and sausage. $9 p/p. 1:30 p.m. auction. 2:00 p.m. Bingo. There will be music, games, and more. Schulenburg–St. Rose of Lima Parish Picnic June 14 at the KC Hall. Fried chicken and sausage. 11:00 a.m. $9 p/p. 12:30 p.m. auction. There will be a country store, Bingo, cake walk, music, and more. St. Mary/Hallettsville–St. Mary’s Parish Picnic June 14. 9:15 a.m. Mass. Stew and sausage. 10:30 a.m. $9 p/p. 1:00 p.m. auction. See ad on pg. 14. Victoria–Serra Club Priests’ Cookout June 11 at 3:00 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church.

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 15 — June 2015

ISSUE DATE July August September October November December January 2016

DEADLINE June 15 July 15 August 14 September 14 October 16 November 16 December 4

Port O’Connor–Holy Family KC Council #9088 Fishing Tournament July 31 & Aug.1. See ad on pg. 11. St. John/Schulenburg–St. John Parish Picnic July 4. 9:00 a.m. Mass. Stew and fried chicken. 10:30 a.m. $9 p/p. 12:30 p.m. auction. See ad on pg. 5. Victoria–The Knights of St. Gregory hosts the Bishop’s Charity Banquet July 16 at the Victoria Country Club. 6:30 p.m. social. 7:15 p.m. dinner. $100 p/p. Proceeds benefit Bishop Cahill’s special charities. Seating is limited. For more information, contact Donald Naiser at (979) 543 8412.

Conferences • Masses • Retreats and more

Amarillo–Hats Off to DCCW Luncheon and Fashion Show June 13 at Msgr. Francis A. Smyer Activity Center at St. Mary’s Cathedral. 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Nail It Junior Youth Rally June 13-14 at St. Thomas the Apostle Church. For more information, visit www. amarillodiocese.org. Corpus Christi–Teens Open Up to God’s Holiness Youth Retreat July 24-26 at the Pax Christi Liturgical Retreat

Quo Vadis Vocation Camp for Young Men

July 5-8 • Cooper’s Farm near LaGrange, TX The Office of Vocations is sponsoring a camp for young men who have completed 8th grade to 21 years of age. Includes outdoor camp activities and discussions on discerning God’s will in life. Priests and seminarians of the diocese will facilitate the camp. For more information, call Fr. Tommy Chen at (361) 552-6140 or visit www.victoriavocations.org.

Center for youth in grades 9-12. For more information, visit www.diocesecc.org. Dallas/Irving–Is it I Lord? Vocations Awareness Program 2015 June 26-28 at the University of Dallas adjacent to Holy Trinity Seminary in Irving. Includes presentations, prayer, and meditation. For more information, visit www.vapinfo.org. Houston–Become One Archdiocesan Youth Conference July 31-Aug. 2 at the Hilton Americas Hotel. For more information, visit www.archgh.org. San Antonio–St. John’s/Assumption Seminary Centennial Celebration evening gathering for former priests July 24 at 5:00 p.m. at Assumption Seminary. Includes tour and reception. For more information, contact Mike Davis at (210) 734-5137 x1414 or mike. [email protected]. Tivoli–Our Lady of Guadalupe Church celebrates the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament the 1st Friday of each month at 6:00 p.m. Mass begins at 7:00 p.m. at 501B William St. with Fr. Paulson Panakal. Mark your calendars now for next month. For more information, call (361) 237-3634. Victoria–Our Lady of Lourdes holds Healing Mass and Prayer the 1st Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. at 105 N. William St. with Fr. Phi Nguyen, chaplain of IWBS Convent. Mark your calendars now for next month. For more information, contact Sr. Louise Marie Jones at [email protected].

Meet the third bishop of the Diocese of Victoria! Receptions will be held: July 10 • El Campo 7:00 p.m. • KC Hall July 13 • Victoria 7:00 p.m. • Holy Family July 15 • Hallettsville 7:00 p.m. • KC Hall July 20 • Palacios 5:30 p.m. • Mass/reception at the Vietnamese Apostolate

Journeys of Faith with Ceci Upcoming Pilgrimages Jewels of Eastern Europe

August 23-Sept. 3, 2015 • $3,595 Spiritual director: Fr. Gary Janak

Holy Land- Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus November 10-21, 2015 • $3,395 Spiritual director: Fr. Pat Knippenberg

Bible & Books Rosaries, Medals, & Statues Baptism & Wedding Items Inspirational Gifts for All Ages

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe & Shrines of Mexico December 10-16, 2015 • $1,595 Spiritual director: Fr. Bob Knippenberg

Ceci Triska • (979) 543-8575 • [email protected] www.selectinternationaltours.com

The Catholic Lighthouse Page 16 — June 2015

DIOCESE

St. Rose of Lima Catholic School, Schulenburg, ends anniversary year

A

Last month, Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer presided over the final Mass of the school year. He shared stories fond memories of his Catholic education. Students sang songs in celebration. Awards were given for perfect attendance, honor roll, and staff service. A prayer service and the release of 125 butterflies concluded the ceremony. The year-long celebration reminded those in attendance as well as the St. Rose School family and community the importance of the mission of a Catholic education. (A) Rosanne Gallia, school principal, and Bishop Emeritus Fellhauer release butterflies (B) Fr. Tim Kosler, pastor of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Schulenburg, and students watch butterflies at the Marti Love Children’s Chapel and Jack Hooper Prayer Garden.

B

St. Rose Catholic School Excellence through Jesus

Monsignor Christopher J. Schreck, Rector/President, and the faculty, staff and seminarians of the Pontifical College Josephinum send congratulations and prayerful best wishes to

Alumnus Father Kristopher Fuchs Ordained to the Priesthood June 6, 2015 Ad Multos Annos!

7625 NORTH HIGH STREET COLUMBUS, OHIO 43235 [email protected] / WWW.PCJ.EDU /1 (877) 725-4436