Volume 19, Number 5 ~ April 2017
Jesus has risen—
He is alive.
We are called to be alive with Him.
His Resurrection
means that we have a lot of work to do.
Rejoice - Christ Is Alive!
by Sister Julia Fonseca, FHIC
As we recall the greatest mysteries of our faith during Holy Week, my thoughts turn to Jesus, the Risen Lord. He is alive!
Although this is a well-known topic to many, perhaps the Holy Spirit will lead us to a reflection that might be beneficial to all
who believe in the words of our Profession of Faith when we say: “For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death, and was buried. and rose again on the third day in accordance with Scriptures.”
True faith concerning the Resurrection of Jesus teaches that he truly died, that is, his soul was separated from his body, and
his body was in the grave for three days, and that then by his own power his body and soul were united once more, never again
to be separated.
Although this is a strictly supernatural mystery, there are some elements in it which come within the category of sense experience — death, burial, the empty tomb, appearances, etc. — and in this sense it is a demonstrable fact and one which has been
verified.
Jesus Christ’s Resurrection completes the work of redemption. For just by dying he endured all evil to deliver us from evil,
so he was glorified in rising again to advance us towards good things, according to Romans 4:25 which says that “{He} was
handed over to for our transgressions and was raised for our justification”.
Christ is alive. This is the great truth which fills our faith with meaning. Jesus, who died on the cross, is risen. He has
triumphed over death; he has overcome sorrow, anguish and the power of darkness. “Do not be amazed!” was how the angels
greeted the women who came to the tomb. “Do not be amazed! You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified. He has been raised;
he is not here.” (Mark 16:6). “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad.”(Psalm 118:24).
Easter is a time of joy – a joy not confined to this period of the liturgical year, for it should always be present in the Christian’s heart, for Christ is alive. He is not someone who has gone, someone who existed for a time and then passed on, leaving
us a wonderful example and a great memory.
No, Christ is alive, Jesus is the Emmanuel: God with us. His Resurrection shows us that God does not abandon his own. He
promised He would not: “Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she
forget, I will never forget you.” (Isaiah 49:15) And he has kept his promise. His delight is still with the children of women and
men.
Through Baptism and the other sacraments, a Christian becomes part of the redemptive mystery of Christ, part of his death
and resurrection: “You were buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the power
of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12). If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are
above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Let us rejoice and be glad, for the Lord is truly risen. Alleluia!
May the Risen Lord grant each and everyone a Blessed Easter.
Dear Portuguese Heritage Night Friend:
“In the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we all have a place of refuge.” This is the theme for the upcoming Portuguese Heritage Night which will take
place this year on October 27, 2017 at New Bethany Residential Care and Skilled Living Facility.
Greetings and best wishes for God’s abundant blessings upon you and your family under the loving protection of the Immaculate Mary.
We are planning an event that will highlight the devotion of the Portuguese people who call upon Mary as the “Soberana Rainha de Portugal.”
There will be an image of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, coming from Fatima, whose beauty is beyond compare and it will be auctioned at the
closing of the event, as the most precious and valuable item.
SAVE THE DATE and spread the news with your friends. This event will take place at New Bethany Residential Care and Skilled Living Facility 1441 Berkeley Dr., Los Banos, 93635. For more information, please call (209) 827-8933.
KNXT
Catholic Television
Streaming LIVE on the Internet at: www.KNXT.tv
Programming Highlights
NEW ON KNXT-TV
Solemn Mass of Palm Sunday
from Rome with Pope Francis
Apr. 9 - 12:00 pm
Easter Vigil Mass from Rome
with Pope Francis
Apr. 15 - 12:30 pm
Easter Mass from Rome
with Pope Francis
Apr. 16 - 12:00 pm
BNSIC Easter Vigil Mass
Apr. 15 - 5:00 pm
2
April 2017
Central California Catholic Life
EASTER IS CELEBRATION
The Seven C’s of Laudato Sí
by Jim Grant, Director Social Justice Ministry Diocese of Fresno
February 20, 2017, was indeed an historic day for the Diocese of
Fresno! His Eminence Cardinal Peter Turkson, Prefect of the newly
instituted Dicastery for Integral Human Development not only visited us,
but he blessed hundreds of clergy and parishioners from across the diocese gathered at Holy Spirit Church in Fresno with a masterful summary
of Pope Francis’ Encyclical Laudato Sí: On Care for our Common Home,
based on seven words, all beginning with the letter C!
1. Continuity: Laudato Sí is a social encyclical in line with and repeating principles and insights previously taught by Popes Leo XIII, St. John
XXIII, Blessed Paul VI, St. John Paul II and Benedict XVI.
2. Collegiality: Besides citing traditional papal teaching, Pope Francis
breaks new ground by quoting Bishops’ Conferences often in the encyclical. This collegial approach of teaching with his brother bishops confirms their writings and supports their local actions at the same time.
3. Conversation/Dialogue: The Encyclical is a passionate call for an
open and enlightened conversation between reason and religion, between
science and faith.
4. Care: So important to the encyclical that it is included in its very
title: “Care for our Common Home”. Instead of a task, the Pope sees it
as solidarity, tenderness, a loving desire, a commitment that comes from
seeing the cry of the poor and the cry of the environment as one and the
same, inseparable.
5. Conversion: Nothing will change without a complete global and
ecological conversion, based on a profound and personal change of heart.
The way to achieve this is through educating ourselves to ecological
citizenship.
6. Citizenship: Only when everyone realizes and appreciates the intimate relationship between humanity and the environment will we take
the necessary action to save the planet.
7. Contemplation: The encyclical opens with a prayer and closes with
two, reminding us that creation is a sacrament of God’s loving activity in
the world.
His Eminence Cardinal Peter K. A. Turkson
Cardinal Turkson with Rt. Rev. Eric Vawter Menees, Bishop of
the Anglican Diocese of San Joaquin and our
Bishop Armando X. Ochoa
Bishop Ochoa and Cardinal Turkson
prepare to bless the participants present
Holy Cross Sisters have a long-term connection with
Cardinal Turkson when he was archbishop of Cape
Coast, Ghana
Central California Catholic Life
April 2017
3
St. Francis Parish School Celebrates Life
by Kay Nowatzki, Jr. High Religion teacher
All throughout the year, but especially during Sanctity of Life Month,
St. Francis Parish School in Bakersfield
remembers the significance of respecting life in all stages: from the moment
of conception to natural death. Younger
students have listened to stories that
marvel at the beauty of life from books
such as, Before You Were Born by Joan
Lowery Nixon, and Dr. Seuss’ Horton
Hears A Who. The entire junior high
participated in a national novena for the
“Legal Protection of the Unborn;” sixth
graders have written prayers and poems
accompanied by illustrations reflecting pro-life values. Seventh graders
wrote prayers creating a montage of
Internet images that represented quotes
from famous proponents of life. The
eighth graders wrote letters and position
statements to members of Congress in
support of the “Life at Conception Act,”
among other issues. These youth are
very informed and wanted to share their viewpoints and reasons to advocate for
life as future voters of America.
The junior high also participated in a poster contest to advertise the Fish Fry
for Life Dinner on March 3, held annually at the St. Francis Church Hall. The
students earned prizes for their art and the proceeds of the fundraiser dinner
benefited Right to Life Kern County. St. Francis students volunteered to work
at the Fish Fry dinner as “drive through” runners, table setters, drink pourers,
trash detailers, or any other job necessary for the success of the evening. It was
a fun night for the families and the whole community while enjoying a fabulous
meal for a good cause.
As Catholic families, it’s important to focus on building pro-life virtues
in our children no matter what age. We have a responsibility to promote the
beauty of every human being made in the image and likeness of God.
The Fresno Diocese 50th Anniversary Mass in the High Desert
by Fr. Kris Sorenson, Pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes, California City, and
St. Joseph’s, Boron, and Vicar Forane of the High Desert Region
During World War II, Japanese Americans around the country were forced to
relocate to relocation camps for the duration of the war. Entire families were uprooted, businesses and homes lost, and lives were thoroughly disrupted. On top
of this, they lived in barracks-type buildings and took their meals in mess halls.
It was pretty much run like a prison camp. There is a famous relocation camp
called Manzanar in the High Desert of the Eastern Sierra just north of Lone
Pine, which housed the Japanese from the southern California region. Thousands were relocated there. Among them were several hundred Catholics. These
Catholics were able to receive the sacraments by means of a religious priest
who made the trek to this center each Sunday. They had their own small chapel.
There are still a few individuals alive today, now in their 80s and 90s, who were
part of that community.
This is just a bit of background on Manzanar, but the intent of this article is
not to provide a detailed history. Anyone can easily look up this history on the
internet. What I would like to explain is how I came to identify this location for
the Diocese of Fresno’s 50th anniversary Mass, which will be held May 18 at 11
am, and what has been planned to this point.
As Vicar Forane for the High Desert region, along with the other vicars, I
was tasked with finding a rural location for the Bishop’s Mass in honor of the
Diocese of Fresno’s 50th anniversary. Ideally, the Bishop desired a remote or
rural location, away from parish churches, and central enough where a large
proportion of the Catholics in the region could attend. Also desired was cover
from the elements, restroom facilities, and the like.
I kept turning this over and over in my head. Where can I find such a location in the High Desert? We don’t have farms and ranches like the valley. We
have cities and sand, and not much in between. Once we get out of the cities,
we are in very remote places with few facilities. At one point, Death Valley
seemed like a possibility. I kept pondering and praying, and then out of the blue
the name “Manzanar” popped into my head! I had not even considered that as a
possibility. This idea seemed to just come out of nowhere. I presume this idea is
divine inspiration as a response to my prayers on this matter.
I was a little skeptical about how they would respond to my inquiry about the
Bishop of Fresno coming to their facility for a big Mass, but I made some calls.
I ultimately spoke with Dominic Papia who is a ranger at this Federal historic
site. To my pleasant surprise, he said such an event is allowed, and we made an
appointment to meet on January 5th. I invited a Knight of Columbus gentleman
from the Ridgecrest Assembly, Ted Firme, to meet with us. The Knights will be
very involved with this Mass at Manzanar.
At our meeting, we took a brief tour of the grounds, and scouted a couple
possible locations for the Mass. One possibility is an outdoor area near the
cemetery, and the other is inside a recreated mess hall. As of today, the consensus seems to be the mess hall is the ideal venue. The climate, even in mid-May
can be unpredictable in the High Desert. It could be hot even in May and also
very windy. We do not anticipate a problem going over room capacity, as many
people will be busy with school and work. The room should be able to hold
many individuals comfortably.
The Knights will provide porta-potties, chairs, water and snacks, and other
logistical support. They also will provide directions to people and assist those
that are mobility challenged. They also will provide a picnic-style lunch in the
hall at Santa Rosa parish in Lone Pine after the Mass for those interested.
I have been in touch with the Japanese Catholic community in LA who
are planning to send a delegation to attend the Mass. They are thrilled about
this Mass at Manzanar! They will invite the survivors to join us, though there
may be few as it is getting harder for many of them to travel. It would be very
special, however, if we can have at least a couple of Manzanar survivors to be
with us at this special Mass. Fr. Jim Dowd, the chaplain at China Lake NWS
in Ridgecrest, will provide music, along with a musician from the LA Japanese
Catholic community.
I have not worked out all the liturgical details yet as to who will lector and
serve, and such. I must still do quite a bit of planning and coordinating yet. But
this is where we stand as of early March. I have invited Fr. Joel from the St.
Therese shrine in Tecopa as well as Fr. Phil Llanos from Edwards AFB. All of
the priests in our area have told me they plan to attend.
This special anniversary Mass we have planned has everyone I have spoken
to very excited! The Bishop and Msgr. Dreiling have been extremely enthused
about this location! It does not check off every box on the Bishop’s wish list,
but it sure checks off the history box! The logistics are a challenge, but what an
exciting location! Manzanar is in our diocese! Our diocese has some fascinating
history and how thrilling to have a Mass at one of the most important locations
in the country. May
God bless us in
putting together this
historic Mass!
This is the
traveling
mobile chapel
that
Bishop Ochoa
will be using
for Masses
in various areas
throughout our
Diocese.
4
April 2017
Central California Catholic Life
Getting to Know Your Diocese – Part IV
Pastoral Experience: Getting to Know Our Diocese
As the 20th century began, our diocese was still a part of the Diocese of
Monterey-Los Angeles under the leadership of Bishop George Montgomery
(1896-1903). Bishop Montgomery was the first American-born Bishop of the
diocese, the previous four being from Mexico or Spain. Bishop Montgomery
was followed by Bishop Thomas J. Conaty (1903-1915) and then by Bishop
John J. Cantwell (1917-1947) who presided over the canonical establishment
of the Diocese of Monterey-Fresno on December 3, 1922, the ceremonies being
held in Fresno’s Saint John the Baptist Cathedral.
After 1896, when Saint Anne’s in Porterville was erected, there was a nineyear interval during which no new churches were built. Finally, in 1905 Saint
Aloysius in Tulare and Saint Joseph in Los Banos were constructed and consecrated. These two parishes were followed by Saint Anthony of Padua in Reedley (1906), Saint Joseph in Bakersfield (1907), Saint Paul the Apostle in Coalinga (1907), Saint Alphonsus in Fresno (1908), Saint Anthony in Atwater (1909),
Saint Peter the Apostle in Lemoore (1912), Saint Joseph in Selma (1913), Saint
Columba in Chowchilla (1918), Saint Mary in Taft (1918), Santa Rosa in Lone
Pine (1919), Shrine of Our Lady of Miracles in Gustine (1919), Saint John the
Evangelist in Wasco (1919), The Shrine of Saint Thérèse (originally Our Lady
of Victory) in Fresno (1919), Saint Mary of the Miraculous Medal in Delano
(1920), and Saint Mary/Saint Katherine in Sanger/Del Rey (1922).
The Diocese of Monterey and Fresno was established by Vatican decree on
June 1, 1922 and as noted earlier, the ceremonies of canonical erection were
held in December 1922 at what is now the cathedral. Initially, the diocese had
no appointed bishop leaving Archbishop Cantwell as Administrator until July
31, 1924 at which time Bishop John B. MacGinley (formerly bishop of Nueva
Caceres in the Philippines) was installed by Archbishop Cantwell as the first
bishop of the Monterey-Fresno diocese. The new diocese consisted of the
twelve California Counties of Fresno, Mariposa, Merced, Tulare, Kings, Kern,
Madera, Inyo, Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz. It encompassed 43,714 square miles (extending from the Pacific Ocean on the west
to the Nevada border on the east). There were approximately 75,000 Catholics
registered in the forty-seven parishes. Seventy-two secular/order priests served
the parishes in addition to twenty-nine missions and twenty-nine stations. There
were fifteen religious orders of men and women represented in the diocese, being in charge of the seventeen grade schools, seven high schools, a hospital, an
orphanage, retreat centers and more. There were 3,892 students in the twentyfour schools.
The next installment will begin with how the diocese of Monterey-Fresno
became the first diocese in the world dedicated to Carmelite Saint Thérèse of the
Child of Jesus, our Patroness, and Fresno’s Our Lady of Victory being renamed
in her honor. It is partly a story of Bishop MacGinley’s quick thinking and action. The secondary patron, Saint Columba, will also be discussed.
I started this pastoral experience
during my last year at Assumption
Seminary in San Antonio, TX as
I was finishing up my Bachelor’s
degree in Philosophy. I mentioned
to Fr. Dan Avila, Vocation Director
of the Diocese of Fresno, the importance, I felt, to get to know the
diocese and that so far in my studies
I didn’t have a fair amount of experience in getting to know the Diocese
of Fresno, even so much as to represent it in other places around the
country. As I reflected upon the fact
that I was entering theology and had
at least five more years left in formation to the possibility of becoming a
priest, the seriousness of my discernment became real.
His Excellency Bishop Ochoa
and Fr. Dan Avila sent me to have a pastoral semester in the diocese known as
Diocese 101. During this time of getting to know the diocese, I would be working in various areas of the Pastoral Center as well as assist at St. John’s Cathedral in which I was in residence. At the Pastoral Center, I worked at the Office
of Formation and Evangelization, Office of Properties, Vocation’s Office, and
the Tribunal. My time at the Office of Formation and Evangelization was very
fruitful. I learned so much of what goes on behind the scenes of the diocese and
the importance of working with the people. The people that are in the various
offices in the Pastoral Center are some of the nicest and friendliest people I have
ever met and got a chance with whom to work.
Although my primary areas of focus during my time at the Office of Formation and Evangelization were on the Youth and Young Adult ministry and
the Hispanic ministry, I did my best to help out wherever I could with all the
ministries. I assisted with the World Marriage Day put on by the Family Life
ministry, I helped with paperwork and organization with the V Encuentro in
concordance with the Hispanic ministry; I represented the School of Ministry
at the Rite of Election in Merced, CA; and I helped update information and go
to vicariate meetings with the Youth and Young Adult minister. By helping all
these ministries, I was able to travel around the diocese and truly get to know its
geographical boundaries, as well as to get to know the people of God. The important lessons I learned upon working in the diocese will truly affect the way
I will serve the diocese, currently as a Seminarian and God willing, one day as
a priest. The work that the Pastoral Center does cannot be easily done by one
person, but it takes a well-managed team to run it and keep it moving.
I can’t thank Father Dan and Bishop Ochoa enough for this experience, but I
also would like to thank Ms. Hernandez, Mr. DuRivage, and Ms. Ruiz for their
supervision and their help in forming a pastoral seminarian. I, God willing, will
go to Mount Angel to continue my theological studies, but the pastoral semester
I had this year will greatly impact the way I will serve the Diocese of Fresno for
the rest of my life.
by Scott Alston, Diocesan Archivist
by Robert Grizzell, Seminarian - College IV
Pianist Composer Delights Inmates at SATF/SP
by Rosa M. Guembe, Catholic Chaplain, Corcoran
On Monday, November 21, 2016, two groups of inmates on “C” yard were
invited to attend a “Thanksgiving Concert” by pianist and composer Eric
Genuis who, accompanied by cellist Desiree Miller, violinist Christina Wong
and opera singer Elizabeth Tredent, delighted the participants with spectacular
music.
They performed pieces such as “Rebellion”, composed for his teenage children, “Panis Angelicus” or “Bread of Angels”, closing up with “Here I Am”, a
beautiful duet expressing a deep father-daughter relationship in difficult times,
delivered with such a powerful and intimate beauty, that was able to engage the
participants in a delicate and emotional way. It was a time to dream and feel
beyond the cement walls and be transposed to a world of love and beauty.
Many participants expressed the fact that they had never been exposed to this
type of music before. One of the participants said, “It was something I couldn’t
have imagined having the pleasure to ever listen to in my life.”
It wasn’t only the music that was inspiring but also Mr. Genuis’ description
of what was going on in his personal life that motivated him to compose every
piece. As they were going back to their housing units, many participants expressed their gratitude to Mr. Genuis and the rest of the musicians telling them
“their music was so beautiful that it will remain in their hearts for a long, long
time.”
The three pictures were taken inside the prison, but following the
law, showing none of the inmates’ faces.
Central California Catholic Life
April 2017
5
An Evening with Matt Maher and Audrey Assad
The Charter for the Protection of Children
and Young People
submitted by Brian Kravec
Holy Spirit Parish and Possibility Productions invite you to an intimate acoustic concert with Matt Maher and Audrey Assad featuring
special guest, John Tibbs.
Matt Maher
Matt Maher, an eight-time
GRAMMY nominee, has
written or co-written five No.
1 radio singles. Maher has
penned songs recorded by
Chris Tomlin, Crowder, Third
Day, Matt Redman, Hillsong, Casting Crowns, Jesus
Culture and Bethel among
others.
Maher was invited to
lead worship for crowds of
thousands in Yonkers, New
York, when Pope Benedict
XVI visited the United States
in April 2008. In 2013, Maher had a career highlight performing “Lord
I Need You” in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in front of Pope Francis and a
crowd of three million people. He has garnered multiple radio successes
writing and recording songs including “Lord I Need You” for which he
was awarded his first RIAA Gold certification.
Audrey Assad
In 2015, Matt and Audrey Assad shared the stage in downtown Philadelphia as part of the World Meeting of Families. They also performed
together in 2016 at World Youth Day in Poland for tens of thousands of
pilgrims from around the globe.
Audrey Assad is highly regarded as the top Catholic Christian female artist in the United States. Audrey is an award-winning musician,
singer, and songwriter. Lauded by the New York Times, she’s a multiple
Dove Award nominee and iTunes Christian Breakthrough Album of the
Year recipient. Earlier this year, Assad released her five-star acclaimed
and No. 1 selling album, Inheritance, a collection of hymns and original
songs that pays homage to Assad’s childhood heritage and to her Catholic faith. She calls her music “soundtracks for prayer” and releases it on
Fortunate Fall Records.
John Tibbs
Coming off the heels of a nationwide tour with Matt Maher in 2016,
Tibbs is excited to bring a unique performance to both new and familiar
places. “My hope is that I can create music that connects people to Jesus
– both Christians and those who may not identify with Christianity. I
want to make music that moves people, and I hope that it honors God.”
Save the Date
Plan to attend An Evening with Matt Maher and Audrey Assad,
Friday, August 18, 7:30pm, at Holy Spirit Parish in Fresno. Visit www.
holyspiritfresno.org or phone 559-434-7701 for tickets and event details.
Citizens of Clovis
by Maya Safadi, Freshman, San Joaquin Memorial High School
In this great city we share, we have all worked hard and contributed
to the well-being of the community. You are all a great group of people
committed to building the kingdom of God here in our town. The work
you have done is already wonderful. Your faith has shown in your actions. The kindness and hospitality of everyone is a great and very positive characteristic. The dedication to the many churches in town is a step
in the right direction. Most of the community worships God, and values
their religion highly. Continue this good work!
However, as in everything, there is room for improvement. We can
all make more room for God in our lives. Perhaps we can find ways to
go to church more often, or organize spiritual events for the community.
Getting together for fun, inspiring religious events is a wonderful way to
help focus on God. This is something Clovis lacks, but can be accomplished. We also have a lack of focus on our faith in day-to-day life. Our
everyday decisions should be guided by God. We can all try to be more
devout. Another significant area to improve would be in charity. Many
charitable organizations do exist in Clovis, but most are small and not
very well-known. If we all work together, we can grow these programs,
and start some new ones; this effort could help a lot of people! If, as a
community, we cut back on a small part of our personal spending, and allocate it to the church or charity, it would go a long way towards our goal
of building the kingdom of God!
All of these things have undeniable benefits. A more spiritual life is a
happier, healthier, and better life. If we all strive to live out the Gospel,
we will find ourselves in an even greater Clovis!
6
April 2017
submitted by Bianca Blanchette, Safe Environment Director
Since 2002, the bishops of the United States have carried out their
ministries to protect and heal in all dioceses and eparchies through the
implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young
People. The Charter directs action on the following matters:
-Outreach and healing to victims and survivors
-Prompt and effective responses to allegations of abuse
-Cooperation with public authorities
-Removal of offenders from ministry
-Safe environment training programs for clergy, employees, volunteers,
and children that include information on prevention, identification, and
response and reporting of abuse
-Background checks for all clergy, employees, and volunteers that have
regular contact with children
-An annual audit of dioceses and eparchies to ensure compliance with
Charter guidelines.
The Church is the Body of Christ. All members of the Church are
linked to one another. We all have a responsibility to ensure the safety
of children in our parishes, schools, families, and local communities.
Here are ways you can help keep children safe. Develop appropriate and
loving relationships with your children. Teach your children safety and
healthy boundaries. Know who has access to your children. Learn the
warning signs of abuse. Report abuse to the appropriate authorities.
As always, the goal of the Safe Environment office at the Diocese of
Fresno is to keep children safe and protected. The Diocese of Fresno is
committed to ensuring that when your child is in our care in parish programs or in Catholic Education that their safety is of utmost importance
and priority. To know more about what your parish and school is doing
and how you can be part of creating and maintaining a safe environment,
contact the Diocese of Fresno Office of Safe Environment at 559-4932882 or visit us online at www.dioceseoffresno.org.
Los Estatutos para la Protección de Niños y Jóvenes
A partir del año 2002, los Obispos de los Estados Unidos han llevado
a cabo sus ministerios para proteger y sanar en todas las diócesis y eparquías a través de la implementación de los Estatutos para la Protección de
Niños y Jóvenes. Los Estatutos dirigen la acción de las siguientes maneras:
-Alcance y sanación para las víctimas y sobrevivientes
-Respuestas rápidas y efectivas a las alegaciones de abuso
-Cooperación con las autoridades públicas
-Quitar de su ministerio a los ofensores
-Programas de entrenamiento del ambiente seguro para el clero, los
empleados, voluntarios, y niños, que incluyan la información sobre la
prevención, identificación, la respuesta y el reporte del abuso
-Investigación de los antecedentes para todo el clero, los empleados, y
voluntarios que tengan un contacto regular con los niños
-Una auditoría anual de las diócesis y eparquías para asegurar el
cumplimiento de las guías de los Estatutos.
La Iglesia es el Cuerpo de Cristo. Todos los miembros de la Iglesia
están conectados unos con los otros. Todos tenemos una responsabilidad
de asegurar la seguridad de los niños en nuestras parroquias, escuelas,
familias, y comunidades locales. Aquí están unas maneras con las cuales
pueden ayudar para mantener seguros a los niños. Desarrollar relaciones
apropiadas y cariñosas con sus niños. Enseñar a sus niños la seguridad y
los límites saludables. Saber quiénes tienen acceso a sus niños. Aprender
las señales de precaución del abuso. Reportar el abuso a las autoridades
apropiadas.
Como siempre, la meta de la oficina del Ambiente Seguro de la Diócesis de Fresno es mantener a los niños seguros y protegidos. La Diócesis
de Fresno está comprometida a asegurar que cuando su niño(a) está bajo
nuestro cuidado en programas de la parroquia o en la Educación Católica,
su seguridad es de la mayor importancia y prioridad. Para saber más
acerca de lo que su parroquia y escuela está haciendo y cómo puede usted
ser parte para crear y mantener un ambiente seguro, comuníquese a la
Oficina del Ambiente Seguro de la Diócesis de Fresno Office al 559-4932882 o visítenos en el Internet en www.dioceseoffresno.org.
Central California Catholic Life
St. Therese Mission Celebrates the Feast of the Holy Infant
by John Menichelli, St. Therese Mission Administrator, Staff Volunteer
The Feast of Santo Niño was celebrated at the St. Therese Mission, located
in Tecopa, California, on January 29, 2017. Nearly 200 pilgrims journeyed to
the Mission’s third annual Feast, with some coming from as far away as the
Philippines and New York, as well as from the neighboring communities of
Pahrump, Las Vegas, and Henderson. The solemn high Mass was followed by
traditional Sinulog dances and music, and everyone enjoyed the plentiful offerings of Filipino and American food. The St. Therese Mission celebrates the
Feast of Santo Niño the last Sunday of January each year. We hope to see you
there next year.
The Feast of the Holy Infant Jesus, known in the Philippines as the Feast of
Santo Niño de Cebu, is celebrated in January of each year by over three million
people who make the pilgrimage to Cebu City to pay homage to the child Jesus.
The Feast has its roots in the 16th century voyage of the Portuguese explorer
Ferdinand Magellan and his efforts to Christianize those islands.
Magellan and the members of his expedition, on a voyage to find a westward
route to the Spice Islands, reached the Philippines in 1521 and became the first
Europeans to reach the Philippine archipelago. Magellan befriended the local
ruler of Cebu, Rajah Humabon. Shortly after Magellan’s arrival, the Rajah, his
queen Hara Amihan, and approximately 500 others were baptized as Christians.
Following his baptism, Rajah Humabon took the Christian name of Carlos (after
Charles V, Magellan’s patron), and his wife took the name Juana (after Joanna
of Castile, Charles’ mother). Magellan gave Carlos and Juana three gifts: an
image of Mary, a cross (Magellan’s Cross), and the image of the Holy Child
(later known as Santo Niño de Cebu). Shortly after the baptism, Magellan was
killed in a failed assault against a local chieftain known as Lapu-Lapu.
The next Spanish expedition, led by Miguel López de Legazpi, arrived in
Cebu 44 years later, in 1565. Legazpi’s efforts at a peaceful colonization were
rejected. Legazpi opened fire on Cebu and burnt down the coastal town. In the
ruins of the town, one of Legazipi’s men found the image of the Santo Niño,
unharmed, in a pine box. The survival of the statue was seen as a miracle by the
Spaniards, who named their settlements “Villa del Santisimo Nombre de Jesús”
(Town of the Most Holy Name of Jesus).
The image of the Santo Niño and Magellan’s Cross are the oldest surviving
Catholic relics in the Philippines. A church, which is said to be the oldest parish
in the Philippines, was built to house Santo Niño on the spot where the image
was found. Blessed Paul VI elevated the church to the status of Minor Basilica
on its 400th anniversary.
Central California Catholic Life
April 2017
7
Anniversaries of Our Clergy and Religious
Priest Anniversaries
May
Rev. Joseph Heffernan May 1, 1965
Rev. Msgr. Daniel Lopez May 1, 1963
Rev. Msgr. Ron Royer May 1, 1958
Rev. Msgr. Ray Dreiling May 3, 1975
Rev. Steve Bulfer May 5, 1973
Rev. Dominic Rajappa May 6, 1992
Rev. Jesse Venzor May 10, 1980
Rev. Guillermo Preciado May 11, 2002
Rev. JesÚs Del Ángel May 13, 2000
Rev. Msgr. Stephen Frost May 14, 1977
Rev. Msgr. Leslie Shenoy May 14, 1976
Rev. Michael Cox May 15, 2010
Rev. Isaque Meneses May 15, 2010
Rev. Ignacio Villafan May 15, 1999
Rev. Doug Walker May 15, 1999
Rev. Gerald Hartz May 16, 1959
Rev. Pedro Olmos May 16, 1978
Rev. Alex Chavez May 19, 2012
Rev. Santiago Iriarte May 19, 2012
Rev. Mark Maxon May 19, 2012
Rev. Rod Craig May 21, 1977
Rev. David Reed May 21, 2005
Rev. Alfredo Arias May 22, 2004
Rev. Robert Borges May 22, 2004
Rev. Efrain Martinez May 22, 2004
Rev. Jose de Jesus Reynaga May 22, 2004
Rev. Dan Avila May 23, 1987
Rev. David Greskowiak May 23, 2009
Rev. Iván Hernández Melchor May 23, 2009
Most Rev. Armando Ochoa May 23, 1970
Rev. Guadalupe Rios May 23, 2009
Rev. Richard Smith May 23, 1998
Rev. Eric Swearingen May 23, 1987
Rev. Kris Sorenson May 24, 2008
Rev. James Dowds, CSsR May 25, 1985
Rev. Joachim Cheon May 26, 2001
Rev. Salvador Gonzalez, Jr. May 26, 2001
Rev. David Enriquez May 27, 2006
Rev. Paul Kado May 27, 2006
Rev. Craig Plunkett May 27, 2006
Rev. Michael Andrade May 28, 2016
Rev. Angel Gonzalez May 28, 1952
Rev. Juan Maldonado May 28, 2016
Rev. Cesar Solorio May 28, 2016
Rev. Guadalupe Vargas May 28, 2016
Rev. Timothy Cardoso May 29, 1983
Rev. Msgr. Scott Daugherty May 29, 1983
Rev. Rodolfo Esmero-Carcueva, SMQA May 29, 1992
Rev. Msgr. Gilbert Meyer May 30, 1942
Rev. Jorge Robles Cuevas May 30, 2015
Rev. Joaquin Arriaga May 31, 1997
Rev. Raul Diaz May 31, 1997
June
Rev. Albert Mello June 1, 2013
Rev. John Schmoll June 1, 1985
Rev. Francis Simeone June 3, 1961
Rev. Raul Sanchez-Flores June 4, 2011
Rev. Carlos Serrano June 4, 2011
Rev. Dennis Alvernaz June 5, 1971
Rev. Michael Burchfield June 5, 1993
Rev. John Gracey June 5, 1993
Rev. Loren Blessing June 6, 1981
Rev. James Catalano, OSJ June 6, 1981
Rev. Msgr. Harvey Fonseca June 6, 1992
Rev. Msgr. Nicolas Herrero June 7, 1959
Rev. John Warburton, OSJ June 7, 1980
Rev. James Rude, SJ June 10, 1964
Rev. Msgr. Richard Urizalqui June 11, 1977
Rev. Steven Peterson, OSJ June 12, 2004
Rev. James Gallas, SJ June 13, 1962
Rev. Michael Moore June 21, 1997
Rev. Antero Sanchez, MSC June 27, 1965
Rev. John Bruno, RCJ June 29, 1974
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April 2017
Rev. John Fluetsch June 29, 1991
Rev. Msgr. Nathaniel Ndiokwere, June 29, 1975
Rev. Msgr. Patrick McCormick June 29, 1975
Rev. Angel Sotelo June 29, 1991
Rev. Henry Williams June 30, 1978
Deacon Anniversaries
May
Rev. Mr. Jim Arnold May 14, 2007
Rev. Mr. Ronald Bourne May 15, 1999
Rev. Mr. Clyde Davis May 15, 1999
Religious Anniversaries
May
Sr. Natalie Donola, PDDM May 5, 1947
Sr. Astrida D’Cruz, FHIC May 24, 1940
Sr. Celestina Mary Faletoi, SN May 24, 1998
Sr. Lucille Carreau, DHS May 31, 1963
Sr. Maria Imelda Lobo, FHIC May 31, 1962
June
Sr. M. Bernardita Nudalo, FDZ June 2, 1989
Sr. Dorothy Bushnell, IHM June 5, 1960
Sr. Rosalie Rohrer, IHM June 5, 1960
Sr. Goretti Perez, RAD June 14, 1970
Congratulations to Bishop Armando Xavier Ochoa, D.D.,
whose 30th anniversary of Episcopal Ordination was on February 23,
2017. May God grant him many graces and blessings as he continues as
bishop of the Diocese of Fresno.
Below we see our Bishop with some of his priests.
Church in Fresno
by Bruce Blau
The Stephen Ministry at Holy Spirit Church in Fresno has been in existence
for almost ten years. It is a ministry that brings Christ’s love for emotional
and spiritual support to those who are experiencing some of the worst events
in life…..death of a loved one, bitter divorce, serious illness, drug addiction,
loneliness and so many other crises that tug at ones’ mind and soul. To date, our
trained Stephen Ministers have supported the priests and deacons in the Fresno
community, with over 12,000 hours of one–on-one ministry to those in need of
support. These one-on-one weekly spiritual encounters may go on for months,
if not years. The positive transformation of the care receivers over time has
been miraculous.
St. Stephen Ministry is Christ caring for people through people. It is part of
an International Christian Organization that provides professional training to
leaders of the local Stephen Ministry organization. In turn, those trained leaders
bring training to parishioners that are called to this ministry. Currently, we have
some 40 trained ministers and eight leaders all assisting over 40 people in need
of support at three Catholic churches in Fresno. Care receivers to whom we
minister, are experiencing various stages of grief, emotional crises, or experiencing painful transitions in their lives. Some of the care receivers are in
long- term care facilities.
Please know that Stephen Ministers are an extension of the personal, continued support of the parish priest and deacon. They bring the love of God to
people, by praying with them, listening and offering them friendship, and a
shoulder on which to lean on. St Stephen Ministry emphasizes Christ as the
cure-giver and the Stephen Minister as the caregiver. If your parish is interested
in more information about Stephen Ministry and how it can support your parish,
contact Hazel 559 299-3279 or Bruce 559 917-9011; [email protected].
Central California Catholic Life
Bishop’s Scout Mass Celebrates Ten Years
Are You Called to Be a Deacon?
by Michale Phillips, DFCCS Chair
The Diocese of Fresno Catholic Committee on Scouting hosted the
first Diocesan Scout Mass in 2007 at Sacred Heart Church, Fresno.
Bishop John T. Steinbock, in 2008 moved the Mass to St. John’s Cathedral. Since then, the Scout Mass has been celebrated at the Cathedral on
the first Saturday of February.
For ten years Catholic Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and American Heritage Girls have been awarded their Catholic religious emblems during a
special scout Mass celebrated by the Bishop. This year, Most Reverend
Bishop Armando X. Ochoa celebrated Mass for 43 scout awardees and
their families. Four Girl Scouts from Visalia were also recognized and
honored with outstanding community service.
In addition to scout awardees, two adult scout leaders received
awards. Both Maria Brown and Jeff Fulfer of Bakersfield received the
Bronze Pelican Emblem denoting the tender care of our scouting youth
by an adult who gives of themselves for the development of the youth
as Christian leaders. Someone who witnessed their significant contributions to our scouting youth nominated Maria and Jeff for the St. George
Emblem. They were nominated by an individual and selected by an
appointed committee. To receive the St. George Emblem, adult leaders
demonstrate an outstanding involvement in the spiritual development
of Catholic Scouts. Under the guidance of Maria and Jeff, seven Boy
Scouts from Bakersfield completed the Ad Altare Dei emblem requirements. Both also demonstrate the Catholic faith as active leaders in their
local parish and as members of the Catholic Committee on Scouting.
by Deacon John Sousa, Director of the Permanent Diaconate
A deacon is ordained and commissioned by the bishop to minister to
the needy and the poor, and to be a minister of Word and Sacrament. Men
who are between the ages of 32 and 58, married or celibate, who have
completed or are in the process of completing a qualified lay formation
program, and feel they may have a vocation - a “calling” by God to serve
Him as an ordained permanent deacon - are invited to contact the Office
of the Permanent Diaconate for further information. The first step could
be to check the diocesan diaconate web page at
www.dioceseoffresno.org/permanent-diaconate.
A new class starts once every three years. Applications for the next
class will be available for three months beginning October 2017. Those
who miss this cycle will have another opportunity in October of 2020.
As part of the application process, two years of lay formation are required. For those who have not had two years of lay formation, the time
to apply is now. Please call the Office of Formation and Evangelization at
559-488-7474 to register.
For additional information, please call the Office of the Permanent
Diaconate at 559-493-2840. We’re in the office Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Otherwise please leave a message. You can also contact us by email
at the following email addresses:
Deacon John Sousa, Director of the Permanent Diaconate
[email protected]
Deacon Charles Reyburn, Assistant Director of Formation
[email protected]
May God bless you as you discern a possible vocation to the Diaconate!
Ad Altare Dei recipients from Bakersfield led by Maria Brown,
Jeff Fulfer and Jeff Rasmussen.
The Boy Scouts are William Brown, Cory Chianello,
James Fulfer, Tiberius Hernandez, Darius Picar,
Joshua Rasmussen and Jack Schuyler.
Jeff Fulfer with Bishop Ochoa and
Scout Chaplain Fr. Gregory Beaumont
Maria Brown with
Bishop Ochoa
Light of Christ recipients for
Tiger and Wolf Cub Scouts:
Jayce Biltz
Kaeden Biltz
Christopher Boylan
Samuel Dubbels
Fisher Galan
Nicholas Garcia
Wylie Lovas
Jack Lucas
Keagan O’Leary
Nathan Origel
Samuel Pardun
Jude Reinhold
Sam Santillian
Charlie Underdown
Marek Yaksitch
Andrew Zaninovich
John Zanoni
Parvuli Dei recipients for
Cub Scouts who have completed
the second grade:
Cristian Camou
Joseph Duran
Anthony Felipe
Robert Felipe
Jacob Gaeta
Dominic George
Chase Kirschenmann
Wesley Linden
Matthew Lopez
Daniel Lovas
Nathan Martinez
Maxx Muldoon
Erik Ortiz
James Paddock
Jeffery Pardun
Isaac Patel
Benjamin Rogado
Michael Russo
Benjamin White
Central California Catholic Life
Girl Scout Community Service
Awards led by Lydia Irwin:
Sierra Irwin*
Litzie Muniz
Kelly Owen*
Julianna Silva
*Silver Awardees
April 2017
9
News from the Office of Formation and Evangelization + Noticias de la Oficina de Formación y Evangelización
FIVE WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS
CINCO MANERAS DE MANEJAR EL ESTRÉS FAMILIAR
Missionary Discipleship in our Backyard
Discípulos Misioneros en el Barrio
Sr. Joanne Bauer, C.S.C., Family Life Coordinator
When we talk about discipleship, most of the time our minds go directly to
people serving and helping the Church in ministry, or who serve the needy.
Anyone doing anything related to the Church is seen as being a disciple,
especially those for whom their career is also their life’s mission. Working
fulltime for the Church becomes a ministry in itself.
But what about the many people who have secular jobs, but are also living
out their faith and their call to serve through their work? Think of the professional chef who donates his/her time to cook for the homeless once a
week, or the corner store owner who gives away rosaries to people who
seem like they need prayer. Even that store clerk who greets you with an
enthusiastic “Hello”, and as you leave wishes you a blessed day!
We are looking for your story. Are you someone who works in a nonchurch position, but has found a way to live out your faith daily? Does your
work involve a work of mercy that brings you closer to God in prayer? Are
you able to share the training you received for work with a faith community?
Family Life Ministry in collaboration with St. Joseph Counseling Center offered in Spanish the first of several workshops, “Five Ways to Manage Stress”,
at St. Anthony Claret on Feb. 7, 2017. This 1 ½ hour pilot program is currently being offered to Fresno Rural and Metro vicariate parishes in either
Spanish or English. In the above photos pastor Fr. Art Gramaje welcomes
presenters/counselors Rufina Sandoval, MSW, LCSW and Susan Amador,
MS, LMFT.
El Ministerio de Vida y Familia en colaboración con St. Joseph Counseling
Center ofreció el primero de varios talleres en español, “Cinco Maneras de
Manejar el Estrés”, en la Parroquia de San Antonio Claret el 7 de Febrero,
2017. Este programa piloto de hora y media está actualmente siendo ofrecido a las parroquias de los Vicariatos de Fresno Rural y Fresno Metro ya sea
en ingles o español. En las fotografías de arriba el pastor Padre Art Gramaje dando la bienvenida a los presentadores/consejeros Rufina Sandoval,
MSW, LCSW y Susan Amador, MS, LMFT.
Share your story with us! Submit a one to two page testimony of
how you live your faith. We would love to feature stories throughout
the year in our office newsletter, on Facebook or through our diocesan
newspaper. For a submission form, please see the diocesan website, on the
Formation and Evangelization page. www.dioceseoffresno.org
Cuando hablamos de discipulado, la mayoría de las veces pensamos en las
personas que ayudan y sirven a la Iglesia en el ministerio, o quienes sirven a los necesitados. Cualquier persona haciendo cualquier cosa relacionada con la Iglesia es visto como un discípulo, especialmente aquellos para quienes su carrera es también su misión en la vida. Trabajar tiempo
completo para la Iglesia llega a ser en sí mismo un ministerio.
¿Pero qué hay de tanta gente que tiene trabajos seculares, sin embargo
están también viviendo su fe y su llamado a servir a través de su trabajo?
Piensa en el cocinero profesional que dona su tiempo para cocinar para
los pobres una vez a la semana, o el dueño de la tienda de la esquina que
regala rosarios a la gente que parece necesitar oración. Aun el dependiente de la tienda que te saluda con un entusiasmado “Hola”, y mientras te
marchas te desea que tengas un día bendecido.
Estamos buscando tu historia. ¿Eres alguien que trabaja en una posición
que no es de la iglesia, pero has encontrado una manera de vivir tu fe diariamente? ¿Tu trabajo involucra una obra de misericordia que te acerca
más a Dios en la oración? ¿Eres capaz de compartir el entrenamiento que
recibes para trabajar con una comunidad de fe?
¡Comparte tu historia con nosotros! Presenta una o dos hojas de
testimonio sobre como vives tu fe. Nos encantaría presentar historias a lo largo del año en el boletín informativo de nuestra oficina, en Facebook o a través de nuestro periódico diocesano. Para obtener un formulario de envío, por favor visita la pagina del Formación y Evangelización
en el sitio web diocesano. www.dioceseoffresno.org
2017 WORLD MARRIAGE DAY with Msgr. Raymond Dreiling
Happy Easter Everyone! Jesus Christ is Risen!
Gloria Garibay, Media Center Secretary
DIA MUNDIAL DEL MATRIMONIO 2017 con Monseñor Raymond
Dreiling
The Easter Season is a time of hope and inner spiritual renewal. Here are
some resources that will help us reshape and change our hearts to a deeper
understanding of God’s mercy so we can be renewed this Easter!
Lent and Easter Wisdom with Pope Francis
While Lent might feel like it is only about our regrets, sufferings, and disappointments, Pope Francis tells us Lent means
much more. With great compassion and mercy, he helps us
break free of despair. Here we find our greatest hope, lifting us
up until Easter arrives. Reflect on the powerful words of Pope
Francis and the accompanying Scripture, prayer, and action
every day of the Lenten and Easter season.
Are you or someone you
know interested in World
Youth Day 2019 in Panama?
Are you planning on organizing a group from your parish
to attend?
Hopeful Meditations for Every Day of Easter through Pentecost
By Rev. Warren J. Savage & Mary Ann McSweeny
Our imagination allows us to experience the joy and excitement surrounding the resurrection of Jesus! Our imagination also opens up a way for us
to understand what it means to be Christian witnesses in the world today.
Tiempo para Dios, por P.J. Eduardo González
Estamos ante la puerta del sepulcro. Hemos llegado…sucios, revestidos de miedos y de incertidumbres. Con todo, nos sabemos
amados y abrazados por el Dios misericordioso que nos abre los
ojos.
10
April 2017
Central California Catholic Life
Please submit your email
address to the Office of Formation and Evangelization
for the latest information on
World Youth Day!
News from the Office of Formation and Evangelization + Noticias de la Oficina de Formación y Evangelización
V ENCUENTRO
Proclaiming our Lord’s Resurrection with Actions
V ENCUENTRO, proclamando la resurrección de nuestro
Señor con gestos y obras
Brenda Noriega, Hispanic Ministry Coordinator
The Gospel of Luke gives us an idea of how disciples felt after the crucifixion
of their master, the murder of their beloved and in which they placed their
hopes. After the crucifixion, the disciples probably spent a few days hiding for
fear of being persecuted. In those days, they probably talked about the uncertain future of their communities and consoled each other. If we put ourselves
in their shoes, I believe that we will all come to the conclusion that our reaction could not be less bereaved and frightened.
The same feeling of fear and despair is quite tangible nowadays, especially
among the immigrants and refugees and those who are persecuted due to
their faith. The fear in our communities is undeniable, we only need to pause
our busy life and without prejudices and indifference observe around us and
pay attention to the news in order to realize how much fear and suffering
there is in our backyard. We will be able to notice the suffering of others by
doing what Jesus models us on The Road to
Emmaus:
“And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew
near and walked with them, but their eyes
were prevented from recognizing him. He
asked them, “What are you discussing as you
walk along?” They stopped, looking downcast.” (Luke 24, 15-17)
Brenda Noriega, Coordinadora del Ministerio Hispano
El Evangelio de San Lucas nos da una idea de cómo se sentían los discípulos
después de la crucifixión de su maestro, el asesinato de aquel en el que depositaban sus esperanzas y al que amaban. Los discípulos pasaron probablemente unos días escondidos por temor a ser perseguidos y consolándose los
unos a los otros, además de probablemente dialogar sobre el futuro incierto
de sus comunidades. Si nos ponemos en los zapatos de los discípulos, creo
que llegaremos todos a la conclusión de que nosotros no reaccionaríamos ni
un poquito menos desconsolados y atemorizados.
Este mismo sentimiento de miedo y desesperanza es bastante tangible hoy
en día, especialmente entre los inmigrantes y refugiados y aquellos que son
perseguidos por su fe. El miedo en nuestras comunidades por diferentes
razones es innegable, sólo basta detenernos un poco en nuestra vida ajetreada y sin prejuicios e indiferencia observar a nuestro alrededor y escuchar las
noticias. Nos daremos cuenta del dolor de otros si hacemos lo que Jesús
nos modela en el Camino a Emaús:
“Mientras conversaban y discutían, Jesús en persona se les acercó y se puso a caminar con ellos, pero algo impedía que sus ojos lo reconocieran. Él
les dijo: « ¿De qué van discutiendo por el camino?» Se detuvieron, y parecían muy desanimados.” (Lucas 24, 15-17)
Jesus first observed at the distance and then approached. Once near he asked
them about what they were talking about. The first action Jesus took was to
observe and then ask. Jesus makes no declaration or begins to speak of the
Scriptures or immediately reveals that He has risen. Jesus takes the first step
to listen to them and approaching them taking them from where they are,
pain and grieving. Then, according to St. Luke, he continuous accompanying
them and does not disappear from their sight until they recognized him in the
breaking of the bread. Jesus does not disappear until their hearts burned
within them “Were not our hearts burning [within us] while he spoke to us on
the way and opened the scriptures to us?” (Luke 24, 32)
This breaking of bread is a symbol of communion, of community. We are
called to imitate Christ. Let us say “Alleluia, Alleluia, the Lord is risen!” Let us
say it with our actions being missionary disciples. Let us say it getting closer
to our brothers and sisters asking them “What are you talking about? What
hurts you? What worries you?” Then, accompanying them in their journey of
faith taking them from where they are. Let us build homes, ministries and
parishes where all feel welcome, appreciated, and protected.
A tool in our diocese to begin learning missionary discipleship is the National
Process of V Encuentro. The V Encuentro parish teams from the 43 parishes
participating in the process of encounter have already been trained to carry
out this process in their parishes. Each parish will have 5 sessions on missionary discipleship and our baptismal call with spirituality based on The Road to
Emmaus.
Some parishes such as St. Jude’s in Livingston, St. Anthony’s in Atwater, Sacred Heart in Bakersfield, and St. Anthony of Padua in Reedley began their
process with their first session during March. However, there is still time to
join the five-session process on missionary discipleship in your parish. Please
visit our Diocesan website, www.dioceseoffresno.org, or find us on FaceBook
at "Diocese of Fresno V Encuentro" to find the calendar of the Fifth Encounter
sessions at your parish or the nearest by you.
Jesús primero observó a lo lejos y después se acercó. Una vez cerca les preguntó sobre lo que hablaban. La primera acción de Jesús es observar y después preguntar. Jesús no hace ninguna declaración ni comienza a hablarles
de las Escrituras o les revela inmediatamente que ha resucitado. Jesús da el
primer paso de acercarse a escucharlos tomándolos desde donde están, el
dolor y desconsuelo. Después, nos relata San Lucas, continúa acompañándolos y no desaparece de su vista hasta que estos lo reconocen en el partir
del pan. Jesús no desaparece hasta que sus corazones arden “«¿No sentíamos arder nuestro corazón cuando nos hablaba en el camino y nos explicaba las Escrituras?» (Lucas 24, 32).
Este partir del pan es un símbolo de comunión, de comunidad. Nosotros
somos llamados a imitar a Cristo. Digamos todos ¡Aleluya, Aleluya, el Señor
resucitó! Digámoslo con nuestras acciones siendo discípulos misioneros al
acercarnos a nuestros hermanos y preguntarles de qué vienen hablando y
acompañándolos en su caminar de fe tomándolos desde donde están. Creemos hogares, ministerios y parroquias donde todos se sientan bienvenidos,
apreciados y acogidos.
Una herramienta en nuestra Diócesis para comenzar el aprendizaje para ser
discípulos misioneros es el Proceso Nacional del V Encuentro. Los equipos
parroquiales de las 43 parroquias participantes ya han sido entrenados para
llevar a cabo este proceso en sus parroquias. Cada parroquia tendrá cinco
sesiones sobre el discipulado misionero y nuestro llamado bautismal con
una mística basada en El Camino a Emaús.
Algunas parroquias como San Judas en Livingston, San Antonio en Atwater
Sagrado Corazón en Bakersfield y San Antonio de Padua en Reedley comenzaron su proceso en Marzo. Más sin embargo, aún hay tiempo para unirse a
este proceso de cinco sesiones de aprendizaje sobre el discipulado misionero
en sus parroquias. Para ver el calendario de las sesiones de V Encuentro en
parroquias visite la página diocesana, www.dioceseoffresno.org, o búsquenos en FaceBook “Diocese of Fresno V Encuentro”.
Central California Catholic Life
April 2017
11
News from the Office of Formation and Evangelization + Noticias de la Oficina de Formación y Evangelización
Neophyte Mass
NEWS FROM YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
Katrina Flores, Coordinator
Josie Longoria, School of Ministry Coordinator
Hello Diocese of Fresno. I wanted to tell you about some of the events and
projects that have been underway here with Youth and Young Adult Ministry.
Vicariate Gatherings
My goal is to reach out to all of the Youth and Young Adult Leaders in our
diocese on a regular basis and have begun having Vicariate gatherings. So far
we’ve had six vicariate Gatherings and have one more scheduled in April. It
is my hope that we can better support each other and share resources/events
amongst our youth and young adult leaders so that we can better serve our
youth and young adults. The goal is to have these gatherings quarterly in
each Vicariate.
One Life L.A.
We had approximately 55 people on the bus that made three pickups:
Merced, Fresno, Bakersfield, to head down to One Life L.A. where we met up
with Bishop Armando X. Ochoa and celebrated all life. The music and speakers were incredible as they shared their testimonies of faith and support for
life.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, or RCIA, is a treasured part of our
Easter season. Those received into the Church at the Easter Vigil or during
the Easter season will continue their spiritual journey through a period of
post baptismal catechesis or Mystagogy. As fully initiated members of our
Church, they now share in the joy of part of a community who welcomes them
with open arms.
We invite the neophytes (newly baptized) and newly received and
their families to join Bishop Armando X. Ochoa for the Neophyte
Mass on Saturday, June 24, 2017, 3:00 pm at St. Anne’s Chapel,
Fresno. Following the Mass there will be a reception and opportunity to
join in fellowship with Bishop Armando X. Ochoa.
For questions concerning the Neophyte Mass please contact Josie Longoria
or Grace Alston at the School of Ministry at (559) 488-7474.
Misa Neófita
Josie Longoria, Coordinadora de la Escuela de Ministerios
El Rito de Iniciación Cristiana para Adultos, o RICA, es una parte valiosa de
nuestra temporada de Pascua. Aquellos recibidos en la Iglesia en la Vigilia
Pascual o durante la temporada de Semana Santa continuarán su trayectoria
espiritual a través de un período de catequesis post bautismal o Mistagogía.
Como miembros de nuestra Iglesia plenamente iniciados, ellos ahora comparten en la alegría como parte de una comunidad que les da la bienvenida
con los brazos abiertos.
Our Diocesan Group
Holy Family Youth, Kingsburg
Los Angeles Youth Day
I had the opportunity to check out the Archdiocese of Los Angeles’ Youth
Day. It was wonderful seeing the youth-filled Masses and talks relevant to
our young people. I had the opportunity to meet up with four of the five parishes that attended: (pictured below in top row) St. Joseph’s in Bakersfield,
St. Ann’s in Ridgecrest, (pictured below in bottom row) Our Lady of Lourdes
in Corcoran, and St. John’s Cathedral that also included youth from St. Patrick’s in Merced.
Invitamos a los Neófitos (recién bautizados) y recién recibidos y a
sus familias a unirse al Obispo Armando Ochoa en la Misa Neófita
en sábado, 24 de Junio, 2017, a las 3:00 pm en la Capilla de Santa
Ana, Fresno. Después de la Misa habrá una recepción y la oportunidad de
reunirse en camaradería con el Obispo Armando X. Ochoa.
Para preguntas concernientes a la Misa Neófita por favor contacte a Josie
Longoria o Grace Alston en la Escuela de Ministerios (559) 488-7474.
ROSIE RECOMMENDS…
Looking for something good to watch on TV or a good book to read? Search
no more: just tune in to Rosie Recommends!
KNXT-TV is airing short recorded clips of Rosie Hernandez, Director for the
Office of Formation and Evangelization, giving recommendations on books
and movies for all ages. In addition, more complete recommendations are
included in her blog of the same name, found on our diocesan website at
www.dioceseoffresno.org/rosie-recommends.
Check out the latest edition, which includes reviews of “Silence”, “The Isle of
the Lost: a Descendants Book”, and “Amish Grace”. All three are both book
and movie, for different ages and audiences.
If you have any suggestions on books or movies to review, submit them to
[email protected].
And make sure to check out what Rosie Recommends!
SAVE THE DATE:
Adoremus
On Friday, April 21st at 7pm, we will be having a special Adoremus to celebrate Christ’s resurrection at Easter. Following Adoremus, we will have a
social with hors d'oeuvres in the dining hall in the Diocesan Pastoral Center along with music for dancing. This will also be a bilingual Adoremus,
which means the music, Exposition, and Benediction will be done in English, Spanish, and of course Latin.
12
April 2017
Central California Catholic Life
Message from Mona Faulkner, Superintendent of Diocesan
Catholic Schools
The Epidemic That Is Affecting Society, Is There Hope for a Cure?
by Robert Grizzell, Seminarian - College IV
Did you know that two of the greatest issues affecting our society today
(including our domestic church and Family Life) are pornography and sex trafficking?
Porn increased marital infidelity by 300% (WebRoot). The issue with
pornography affects marriage by traumatizing the person, by objectifying the
significant other, making the person an object of pleasure. It’s shocking to think
that this manipulative disease can start in a child’s life at the age of 11. (www.
fightthenewdrug.org) Pornographic material manipulates the minds of people
and changes their psyche. Porn affects the way both men and women look at
each other. It changes the brain and leads people to use their new way of thinking to manipulate those around them into a sexual object, which demeans their
view of the human person and causes immoral acts to be performed for self
gratification. Porn has such a harmful effect that it also affects people’s relationships with their wives, girlfriends, and relatives.
Porn is also instrumental in the industry
of sex trafficking. With the porn industry already affecting the attitudes men and women
have toward each other, porn now challenges
their sense of morals to the extent that they
are willing to sell their friends, neighbors, or
even family into sex for money to buy more
pornographic material, or to get more sensual
satisfaction from other sources. The truth
lies in the money. With statistics as recent
as in the year 2016, a shocking fact is that child porn is a $3 billion industry.
(TopTenReviews.com) That’s not taking into account the thousands of young
adults who are induced into the porn industry! Even though child porn is a $3
billion industry, porn itself is a global, $97 billion industry, with $12 billion of
that coming from the U.S. (NBC News) Could you have imagined that 12% of
the world’s porn revenue comes from the USA? It is also hard to imagine that,
with the cultural norm of such a hard working society like the United States,
American citizens can spend more than 4,599,000,000 hours watching porn in
2016 alone. (PH Analytics) With this wide spread epidemic, is there a hope for
a cure?
Yes! There is hope and there are
some organizations out there that help
in the area of porn addiction and sex
trafficking. Fight the New Drug has
received major support from teens,
youth, young adults, parents, and
other organizations as well. It has
raised major support in its fundraising to bring awareness of the harmful
effects of porn and to expose the porn
industry itself. Fight the New Drug
has a program called Fortify: a webbased program of short video lessons
and activities designed to educate and
empower individuals seeking to find
freedom from pornography. It is developed by a team of professionals including psychologists, neurologists, therapists and other mental health experts.
(www.fightthenewdrug.org) This program, free for teens, can really help with
porn addiction. Youth from around the country have been sporting the t-shirts
to support its cause.
A second group that is fighting porn and the sex trafficking industry is The
Pink Cross Foundation. It was founded by Shelley Lubben, a former adult film
star. Shelley founded this organization to help support women and men who are
stuck in the life of prostitution and sex trafficking. Ms. Lubben understands the
clear connection between pornography and the sex trafficking industry. Porn
formulates a false sense of pleasure in the films and establishes a life of pure
Prior to the Lenten season each year, the Office of Catholic Education offers a day-long retreat for all of our Catholic school principals.
This retreat is held at St. Anthony’s Retreat Center in Three Rivers and
begins at noon on Thursday through lunch on Friday. While it is hard for
our principals to tear themselves away from their many responsibilities at
their individual schools, this small bit of time gives each person a chance
to relax and reclaim some of his or her closeness to God through talks,
prayer and social time with colleagues.
This year, our Retreat Director was Mr. Vernon Robertson. The focus
of his talks was how to pray for our schools, our families and our students. In preparation for Lent, young Catholic school children learn about
sacrifice by giving up something that they really like such as candy. The
older children are taught to perhaps look a bit deeper into the meaning of
sacrifice by offering to give of their time to someone in need, to abstain
from gossiping about a certain person or by including everyone in an
activity. Mr. Robertson, however, shared another way to deepen our relationship with Christ through fasting.
Principals took these suggestions home with them and have now
shared them with their faculties, parent groups and boards. May each of
us understand the true meaning of Lent and the opportunity we are given,
once again, to grow closer to Christ.
Fast from judging others, Feast on the Christ dwelling in them.
Fast from emphasis on differences, Feast on the unity of life. Fast from apparent darkness, Feast on the reality of light. Fast from thoughts of illness. Feast on the healing power of God.
Fast from words that pollute, Feast on words that purify.
Fast from discontent. Feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger. Feast on patience.
Fast from pessimism, Feast on optimism.
Fast from worry, Feast on the Divine Providence.
Fast from complaining, Feast on appreciation.
Fast from negatives, Feast on affirmatives.
Fast from unrelenting pleasures, Feast on unceasing prayer.
Fast from hostility, Feast on peace.
Fast from bitterness, Feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern, Feast on compassion for others.
Fast from personal anxiety, Feast on trust.
Fast from discouragement, Feast on hope.
Fast from acts that tear down, Feast on acts which build up.
Fast from thoughts that weaken, Feast on promises that inspire.
Fast from idle gossip, Feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from problems, which overwhelm, Feast on prayer that undergirds.
spiritual and physical torture for the adult film stars and the viewers of the films.
Pornography and sex trafficking is a global phenomenon. It crosses religious,
cultural, and geographic boundaries. It ends up hurting children, destroying
families, and ruining our future. If you or someone you know is suffering from
the effects of pornography or sex trafficking, don’t be afraid. You are not alone
in your struggles. Millions of people are going through exactly what you are
going through. Organizations such as “Fight the New Drug” and “The Pink
Cross Foundation” are not miraculous, but they can help us to improve our society to eliminate the new drug, establish safer environment, and create a better
future for all.
DOUBLE TREE HOTEL – VENTURA ST., FRESNO, CA
REGISTRATION FEE: $50/ADULT; $95 MARRIED COUPLES
SPEAKERS: FR. BILL CASEY, FR. STAN FORTUNA,
FR. CHARLES LUERAS, FR. JOSE ROBLES SANCHEZ,
FR. ROBERT BARCELOS (invited)
EVENTS FOR 2017
EVERY FRIDAY EXCEPT DURING HOLIDAYS
STARTS WITH THE ROSARY AND CHAPLET OF MERCY AT 6:45 pm
ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA - ROOM 23 – MAROA AVE. FRESNO, CA.
CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP STARTS AT 7:30 pm
ANNUAL HEALING RETREAT
AUGUST 11-13, 2017
RETREAT MASTER – FR. JAMES BLOUNT, S.O.L.T.
ST. ANTHONY RETREAT CENTER – THREE RIVERS, CA.
REGISTRATION: $200/DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
SEPTEMBER 23-24, 2017
MARIAN EUCHARISTIC CONFERENCE
SEPTEMBER 23, 2017
YOUTH MARIAN EUCHARISTIC CONFERENCE
REGISTRATION FEE: $25 (includes lunch)
STARTS AT 8:00 am ENDS AT 5:00 pm
SPEAKERS: FR. STAN FORTUNA, FR. JOSE ROBLES SANCHEZ
SEPTEMBER 26 - OCTOBER 8, 2017
SCANDINAVIA, ST. PETERSBURG CRUISE/TOUR
SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR: MSGR. PATRICK Mc CORMICK
COST VARIES ON TYPE OF CABIN: IA-$3,199 ID-$3,169, OC-$3,579
OA-$3,649, BD-$3,879, BA-$3,899
DECEMBER 8-10, 2017
ADVENT RETREAT
ST. ANTHONY RETREAT CENTER – THREE RIVERS, CA
RETREAT MASTER: TO BE ANNOUNCED
COST: $200/PERSON ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Central California Catholic Life
April 2017
13
Resurrection Means Helping Others
Does God exist?
Easter is the great day when we celebrate with
so many of our friends. And this means that Lent
is a time when we should try to remember all our
friends. But there is another more basic thing we
have to do.
Easter is our celebration of that incredible moment when Jesus rose from death as a human being. So then we have to ask ourselves: Does God
exist? Yes! How do I know? God is a reality in
my life.
How do I know this? Perhaps ironically my
sense of hope leads me to believe it, for my sense
of hope depends on a number of experiences. I
hope for something I know beyond what I know. There are moments of sheer
ecstasy in my life. Moments when I could scream to the heavens for the absolute delight of one experience or another. And those experiences have to do
with my relations with other people, whom I mention now.
The Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court
St. John’s Cathedral, #2526
by Fr. Jim Rude, SJ
submitted by Mary V. Harguindeguy
Items were given to the Rescue Mission Shelter for women with children
Together P and A and M and I are united one in the commonality of our common background and experiences.
Together S and S and I have accepted a deep embrace.
Together J and J and I can so easily relax in the ease of sharing.
Together G and I opened doors of love.
Together S and I started low and ended high.
Together A and I cooperate in love despite different levels.
Together T and M and I work from a sense of love.
Together D and I are able to sense an extraordinary affection for one another.
Together S and T and I simply thrill at the enrichment of people around us.
Together D and D and I watch growth that in some way we are each responsible for and marvel at.
Together O and I found open doors of love.
Together J and N and I share a love that goes back to high school.
Together S and I can agree and disagree in love.
Together M and I sit amazed at growth.
Together M and M and I rejoice in multiple years of love.
Together R and B and I thrill at our differences.
Together D and J and I share love that has grown amazingly.
Together C and I agree and agree to disagree.
Together H and I shared an amazement that is full of love.
Together M and D and I have been dazzled with care.
Together M and P and I were amazed at the greatness of love.
Together G and I were opened to a world of incredible love.
Together P and O and I found a creativeness that was amazingly full of love.
Together A and I share differences with love.
Together T and I worked together in Hollywood where there was much love.
Together V and I shared our Hollywood hopes.
Together T and I ended in love despite a beginning.
Together R and I share confusions, cooperation and much love.
Together J and I shared a wonderful openness to the world of beauty.
Together B and D and I are separate and together in love.
Together R and I are stunned by creativity.
Together W and G and I have worked with so much beauty.
Together B and B and I love the town we work in.
Together L and L and I admire the work we do.
Together E and I found love in a world that was loveless.
All of these moments are special, each different, each so very rich, and yet
they only indicate that there has to be more. They are a presence to me of a
presence that calls me and pulls me to the fullness of that presence. I know
it not. I fathom it in no way. But it is real and it is there. It touches me. It
inflames me. It teases me to more.
Is this all my imagination? No. It is all too ecstatic to be imagined. It is
real. Then there is something, or someone, or Someone who is there and there
managing all this. I believe.
I don’t know how not to believe. What else can I say?
All the baby items that were bought
We were able to buy MANY boxes of diapers
Here we took baby blankets & bottles to the
NICCU (Newborn and Infant Critical Care Unit)
Let us celebrate together,
all the women
and all the men!
Items were given to the Pregnancy Center
14
April 2017
Central California Catholic Life
Easter
Easter
Sunrise
Service
Sunrise Service
St. La Salle School Boys Varsity Basketball Team Won the
Championship
submitted by Angelita Lazaro
Congratulations to the Reedley St. La Salle School Boys Varsity
8th grade Basketball team that won the championship in the Parochial
Schools Athletic League (PAL) 46th Annual Tournament held on February 12, 2017.
Congratulations also to the St. La Salle School Girls Varsity Basketball team that was awarded the Sportsmanship Award. MVP award was
given to Evan Leal, and the All-Tournament awards were to given Hunter
Gobby and Henry Colbert.
Photo Credit: Frankie Leal
A Community worship service will be held
A Community worship service will be held
outside (weather permitting) at
outside (weather permitting) at
St. Anthony Retreat Center
St. Anthony Retreat Center
6:30 a.m. Sunday, April 16, 2017
6:30 a.m. Sunday, April 16, 2017
All local Three River Churches and their congregations are
All local Three River Churches and their congregations are
invited to attend. A collection will be taken during the
invited to attend. A collection will be taken during the
service for the TR Bread Pantry.
service for the TR Bread Pantry.
Following the service a delicious breakfast
Following
the service
a delicious
will be served.
Donation
of $15 breakfast
for
will
be served.
Donation
of $15 for
adults
and $8 for
children.
adults and
$8the
for breakfast
children. will be
Proceeds
from
Proceeds
from
the breakfast
be school.
used for the
summer
vacationwill
bible
used for the summer vacation bible school.
Children’s Poverty in Central Valley
by Rev. James Torrens, SJ
I recently ventured to Tulare for the annual Ag Expo, claiming to be the
world’s largest annual showcase for everything to do with farm and dairy and
ranch. There was a tremendous turnout to view all the advanced equipment
along with San Joaquin Valley products. The Expo could not, however, highlight what still makes the cornucopia possible, its great population of farmhands
from Mexico. A majority are indigenous, from Oaxaca and Guerrero states,
prized for their love of the earth and the supple handiwork of their women.
About 70% of those in the field lack documents.
Despite the abundance they produce, these farmworkers, including those
settled in small towns, struggle to feed themselves. Almost half of Latino children in the Valley live in concentrated poverty (the estimate is 60% for Black
children). Fresno, the aggie capital, ranks just after Cleveland and Detroit for its
percent of populace below the federal poverty level. The fields and many parts
of towns are “food deserts,” places without access to real grocery stores. To respond to hunger, some churches have pantries, and the Community Food Bank
distributes widely, though its processed food is no bulwark against obesity.
Children’s health, in fact, runs a gamut of stresses, starting with tensions at
home and gang violence, plus contaminated air and pesticide drift. A quarter of
the children have asthma, with visits often to emergency rooms. And one in four
school sites in the Valley is judged to have unsafe drinking water. Education for
the immigrants lags as well, starting with low enrollment in pre-kindergarten up
to notable deficiency at some secondary schools.
“Urgent” has to be stamped large over the above. These, along with decent
housing, are the developmental needs of those without whom no farming and
ranching in the Valley is conceivable. To such immense needs the Catholics of
Fresno do respond through admirable charities, and by their strength in religious
education, with an ample corps of catechists. But popular education is outside
Catholic reach; the Fresno diocese has but a limited string of schools struggling
to meet expenses.
Now, at this moment, Urgency has to take a back seat to Emergency. The
prospect of round-up and deportation of the undocumented has been made real.
Presidential purpose, the assault on “lawless chaos,” has spawned incursions of
ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) into homes and random grabs of
people without papers. Many in the target group fear to step outside home. They
are advised, if agents come, “Don’t say a word, don’t open your door a crack
or the foot will come in.” They avoid buses. Children who are citizens not only
dread the deportation of parents, at school they undergo heckling and bullying
for being who they are.
Such is the storm blown into the Central Valley. With what response? The
new mayor of Fresno, for one, finds he cannot declare a sanctuary city but will
keep the police from cooperating with ICE. But if the pinch comes, can that be
counted on in a place rife with prejudice? Meanwhile the Mexicans at peril in
a diocese at least 50% Latino, ask, Where is our Church? Scrambling, like everyone else, for adequate response. The most immediate one must be to face the
crisis from the pulpits, calling attention to it, conveying to individuals a sense of
their dignity and agency, encouraging faith in a loving Providence.
Faith in the Valley (FIV), a collaboration of the local churches, has opened
a campaign of Accompaniment and Rapid Response. They want people daring to look out for one another and acting quickly if there has been an arrest.
They expect the undocumented to be taught their rights, in the churches above
all, and legal help to be made more available. A few churches have decided on
sanctuary in Fresno and more are sought in the whole county. For the Catholic
Church, a participant in FIV, the goal is clear: courageous Catholicism, people
coming out of the woodwork for generous response to their brothers and sisters
who do such essential work but are yet to enjoy any legal standing.
Mass: St. Clair's Catholic Mission, 9 AM
Mass: St. Clair's Catholic Mission, 9 AM
Three Ways to Obtain an Indulgence
submitted by www.catholicnewsagency.com
For the 100th anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima in
Portugal, Pope Francis has decided to grant a plenary indulgence opportunity
throughout the entire anniversary year, which began Nov. 27, 2016, and will end
Nov. 26, 2017.
The Executive Secretary of the Rectory of the Fatima Shrine in Portugal,
André Pereira, explained to CNA that the plenary indulgence can be obtained
during the entire Jubilee Year. There are three ways of obtaining the indulgence,
detailed in a statement on the shrine’s website.
To obtain the plenary indulgence, the faithful must also fulfill the ordinary
conditions: go to Confession and Communion, be interiorly detached from sin,
and pray for the intentions of the Holy Father.
1. Make a pilgrimage to the shrine
The first way is for “the faithful to make a pilgrimage to the Fatima Shrine in
Portugal and participate in a celebration or prayer dedicated to the Virgin.”
In addition, the faithful must pray the Our Father, recite the Creed, and
invoke the Mother of God.
2. Pray before any statue of Our Lady of Fatima
The second way applies to “the pious faithful who visit with devotion a
statue of Our Lady of Fatima solemnly exposed for public veneration in any
church, oratory or proper place during the days
of the anniversary of the apparitions, the 13th of
each month from May to October (2017), and
there devoutly participate in some celebration or
prayer in honor of the Virgin Mary.”
Regarding this second way, the rector of the
Fatima Shrine told CNA that the visit to the
statue of the Virgin, “does not necessarily have
to be only at Fatima or exclusively in Portugal,”
but can be done anywhere in the world.
Those seeking an indulgence must also pray
an Our Father, recite the Creed and invoke Our
Lady of Fatima.
3. The elderly and infirm
The third way to obtain a plenary indulgence
applies to people who, because of age, illness or
other serious cause, are unable to get around.
These individuals can pray in front of a statue
of Our Lady of Fatima and must spiritually unite
themselves to the jubilee celebrations on the days of the apparitions, the 13th of
each month, between May and October 2017.
They also must “offer to merciful God with confidence, through Mary, their
prayers and sufferings or the sacrifices they make in their own lives.”
Central California Catholic Life
April 2017
15
In Memoriam Imam Abdl Shadid
Muhammad
by Jim Grant, Director, Social Justice Ministry, Diocese of Fresno
In the previous Lent edition of Central California
Catholic Life (p. 4), Imam A.S. Muhammad wrote an
inspiring story on the Muslim American Chaplain Association, and why Bishop Armando X. Ochoa was chosen
to receive their award for Interfaith Collaboration for his
tireless efforts promoting interfaith community relationships, and his own direct service to institutionalized
persons through chaplains and himself being proactive
in serving institutional congregations.
Imam Muhammad died
suddenly on March 6, and as
expected, many family members
and Islamic prison chaplains
from across the state came to
Fresno to honor this beloved
champion of Islamic faith and
interfaith collaboration. The
funeral prayers at the Islamic
Cultural Center of Fresno were
simple and profound, but the
burial at the Madera Islamic
Cemetery was even more impressive. After my friend was
laid in his grave, wrapped only
in a sheet with no coffin, we
all covered him with the dirt
that had been extracted, and then an Imam reminded us
of our need to remember Abdul Shadid in our prayers
and good works so that on the Day of Judgment he will
receive the eternal reward he himself believed in and
hoped for during his own earthly life.
I loved working with Imam on many projects, as
recently as the week before his sudden passing, and will
miss him dearly. The large interfaith community that
was present, led by Bishop Ochoa, showed me once
again the power and importance of interfaith collaboration, especially in today’s polarized and violent world.
Bishop’s Annual Appeal
Central California Catholic Life is published six times annually by the Roman
Catholic Diocese of Fresno, which comprises the counties of Fresno, Inyo, Kern,
Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced and Tulare.
Publisher: Most Reverend Armando X. Ochoa, D.D., Bishop, Diocese of Fresno
16
April 2017
Central California Catholic Life
Co-editors: Sr. Rosalie Rohrer, IHM and Fr. James Rude, SJ
1550 N. Fresno Street, Fresno, CA 93703
559-488-7463
E-mail: [email protected];or [email protected]
Diocesan website: www.dioceseoffresno.org