Nov. 21, 2025

November 21, 2025

VOLUME 35 • NUMBER 4

1123 S. CHURCH ST. CHARLOTTE, N.C. 28203-4003 catholicnews@rcdoc.org 704-370-3333

PUBLISHER

The Most Reverend Michael T. Martin, OFM Conv., Bishop of Charlotte

EDITOR: Trish Stukbauer

704-370-3392, tmstukbauer@rcdoc.org

ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kevin Eagan 704-370-3332, keeagan@rcdoc.org

MULTIMEDIA DESIGNER: David Puckett 704-808-4521, dwpuckett@rcdoc.org

EDITORIAL TEAM: Kimberly Bender 704-370-3394, kdbender@rcdoc.org Lisa Geraci 704-370-3294, lmgeraci@rcdoc.org Troy C. Hull 704-370-3288, tchull@rcdoc.org Christina Lee Knauss 704-370-0783, clknauss@rcdoc.org Brian Segovia 704-370-3235, bmsegovia@rcdoc.org

COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT/CIRCULATION: Amelia Kudela 704-370-3333, catholicnews@rcdoc.org

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Liz Chandler 704-370-3336, lchandler@rcdoc.org

ASSISTANT COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Patricia L. Guilfoyle 704-370-3334, plguilfoyle@rcdoc.org

THE CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD is published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charlotte 26 times a year.

NEWS: The Catholic News Herald welcomes your news and photos. Please e-mail information, attaching photos in JPG format with a recommended resolution of 150 dpi or higher, to catholicnews@rcdoc.org All submitted items become the property of the Catholic News Herald and are subject to reuse, in whole or in part, in print, electronic formats and archives.

ADVERTISING: Reach 165,000 Catholics across western North Carolina! For advertising rates and information, contact Advertising Manager Kevin Eagan at 704-370-3332 or keeagan@rcdoc.org. The Catholic News Herald reserves the right to reject or cancel advertising for any reason, and does not recommend or guarantee any product, service or benefit claimed by our advertisers.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $17.25 per year for registered families of the Diocese of Charlotte and $25 per year for all others

POSTMASTER: Periodicals Class postage (USPC 007-393) paid at Charlotte, N.C. Send address corrections to the Catholic News Herald, 1123 S. Church St., Charlotte, N.C. 28203.

CATHOLIC ALL WEEK

Timely tips for blending faith & life

Thanksgiving reminds us the gratitude is, first and foremost, an act of faith. As Catholics, we give thanks not only for God’s many blessings in our lives, but for God Himself. Giving thanks is also an essential part of our American history. From the earliest celebration at the Pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving to President George Washington’s proclamation of “a day of public thanksgiving and prayer” to the 21st century, Americans have taken time to celebrate and give thanks. Here are a few ways to remember the real reason behind the feast:

Diocesan calendar of events

VIÑEDO DE RAQUEL: ¿Es usted o un ser querido que busca la curación de los efectos de un aborto anterior? Los retiros de fin de semana son ofrecidos por Caridades Católicas para hombres y mujeres en todas las regiones de la Diócesis de Charlotte. Para obtener información, comuníquese con Karina Hernández: 336-267-1937 o karinahernandez@live.com.

EVENTS

ADVENT & CHRISTMAS SACRED MUSIC CONCERT 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. This annual concert by the Cathedral Choir, Children’s Choir and High School Choir will feature “Magnificat in C” by Johann Georg Reinhardt and other pieces by Parsons, Rathgeber, Bach and Mendelssohn.

PRAYER SERVICES

THE EUCHARIST AS THANKSGIVING

Did you know that the word Eucharist literally means “Thanksgiving?” Indeed, the Greek word “eucharisteo” at the heart of our English word means “to give thanks.” Not only that, the Catechism says the Eucharist “is an act of thanksgiving to God” (1329) and words of thanks are sprinkled throughout much of the Mass. Although it’s not a holy day of obligation, many Catholics have a tradition of attending Mass together as a family at Thanksgiving to begin the day by thanking the One from whom all our blessings flow.

PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING

As Catholics, we know that prayer is a way of lifting our hearts, minds and souls to God. Prayer is “the raising of one’s mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2590, quoting St. John Damascene). Prayer connects us with our Creator, deepening our “vital and personal relationship with the living and true God” (CCC 2558). We pray whenever we have something to be thankful to God for – not just on Thanksgiving Day, but every day. Visit our website for some prayers that might speak to your heart.

VOLUNTEER AND DONATE

Particularly in this climate of economic uncertainty, Catholic families can demonstrate their gratitude for the gifts they have received by giving back to those facing food insecurity. Although full November SNAP benefits were restored to North Carolina recipients Nov. 14, the government shutdown shined a light on the epidemic of local families in need of assistance. Consider giving financially or volunteering with food pantries at your church or with Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte.

Scan the QR code for this week’s recommended prayers and activities 2 1 3

of the Diocese of Charlotte will celebrate its last Mass for the year at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Our Lady of Consolation Church, 1235 Badger Ct., Charlotte. This is the first time the Mass will be celebrated in the city of Charlotte. Transportation and carpooling services will be provided from the Triad area. Contact Dr. Godfrey Ejimakor at 336-3929640 or Sir Austin Nwokolo at 336-303-8626.

VIGIL OF THE TWO HEARTS: Vigil begins with 8 p.m. First Friday Mass on Dec. 5, followed by nocturnal Eucharistic Adoration and concludes with the 8 a.m. First Saturday Mass on Dec. 6. St. Patrick Cathedral, 1621 Dilworth Road East, Charlotte. Sign up for an hour of Adoration at www. defendthefamily.org/two-hearts.

HOLY HOUR FOR JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE An evening including Adoration, music, prayer and a reflection on hope by Deacon James Webster, 7-8:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, St. Therese Church, 217 Brawley School Road, Mooresville.

DEC. 1-2

— Catholic News Herald, OSV News, N.C. Department of Health and Human Services

over the coming weeks:

Atlanta Province Bishops’ Meeting* Charlotte

DEC. 6 – 10 A.M.

Liturgy of Ordination to the Diaconate Immaculate Conception Church, Hendersonville

* Denotes a private event.

Our faith

Seeing everyone as a brother or sister is essential

Being a Christian means recognizing every person as a brother or sister and always being ready to lend a helping hand, Pope Leo XIV said.

“Brothers and sisters support each other in hardship, they do not turn their back on those who are in need, and they weep and rejoice together in the active pursuit of unity, trust and mutual reliance,” the pope said Nov. 12 at his weekly general audience.

Continuing his series of audience talks on “Jesus our hope,” the pope said he wanted to look specifically at Jesus’ command to His followers that they love one another.

Relationships support and enrich human life and make it possible to survive, grow and learn, he said. They are an antidote to “loneliness and even a narcissism that is concerned with others only out of self-interest,” he said.

But even more, the pope said, fraternity is “an essential feature of Christianity, which ever since the beginning has been the proclamation of the Good News destined for the salvation of all, never in an exclusive or private form.”

As sons and daughters of God, he said, it is clear that all people are brothers and sisters to each other.

In a world torn by war and division, he said, it is “more urgent today than ever, to reflect on the greeting with which St. Francis of Assisi addressed everyone, regardless of their geographical, cultural, religious and doctrinal origins: ‘omnes fratres’ (brothers and sisters all).”

St. Francis “placed all human beings on the same level, precisely because he recognized them in their common destiny of dignity, dialogue, welcome and salvation,” the pope said.

Summarizing his talk in English, Pope Leo said that St. Francis of Assisi “knew that everyone has the same needs: to be respected, welcomed, heard and saved. Indeed, this is the Good News and a core tenet of our Christian faith: God’s saving love is for everyone, no exceptions.”

Addressing Portuguese speakers, the pope said Jesus calls His followers to live fraternity “through concrete gestures, words and actions.”

Christians, he added, are called to “a continual striving to outdo one another in mutual respect and reciprocal care.”

“May the Lord free us from all selfishness and division and renew us in hope that we may faithfully imitate His generous love for all people,” he prayed.

Explaining purgatory: Why we pray for the dead

November is a time when Catholics are especially encouraged to pray for the souls of those who have gone before us in faith. The Catechism attests that, “from the beginning the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice. … The Church also commends almsgiving, indulgences and works of penance undertaken on behalf of the dead” (CCC 1032). But why do we pray for the dead? When a loved one dies, it is common to say, “They are with God now,” or, “They are at peace.” What need, then, have they of our prayers?

The answer to this question is the Catholic doctrine of purgatory. This ancient teaching is the very reason why we have funerals, offer Masses for the dead and celebrate All Souls’ Day. But many Catholics struggle to explain this important doctrine, especially when asked by Protestant friends who want to know, “Where is purgatory in the Bible?”

It is true that you do not find the word “purgatory” in the Scriptures; neither do we find the words “Trinity” or “Bible.”

Yet the concepts these words describe are nevertheless biblical. The passage most commonly cited in support of the doctrine of purgatory is 2 Maccabees 12:38-45, in which a collection is taken up to make a sin offering for fallen soldiers who had been discovered carrying idolatrous amulets. Affirming belief in the resurrection, the Scripture calls it “a holy and pious thought” to pray for the dead.

SUPPORT FOR PURGATORY

Praying for the dead implies there is some state after death in which our prayers may do souls some good. This cannot be heaven, as the souls in heaven have no need of our prayers. Neither can it be hell, as prayer would be useless to the souls of the damned. That the Scriptures say it is “holy and pious” to pray for the dead supports the doctrine of purgatory.

The problem is that 2 Maccabees is not recognized as canonical by Protestants. There are other passages that support the doctrine of purgatory. In Matthew’s gospel, Jesus admonishes us to be reconciled on the way to court, “lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison; truly I say to you,

MOHAMMAD PONIR HOSSAIN, REUTERS | OSV NEWS A priest blesses gravesites with holy water on All Souls’ Day to pray for the souls of the departed Nov. 2 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

you will never get out till you have paid the last penny” (Mt 5:25-26). Jesus is alluding to our final judgment. But He would not describe heaven as a prison. Neither could this be a reference to hell, from which the damned will never be released.

Another New Testament passage supporting purgatory comes in St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. Speaking of the Day of Judgment when “each man’s work will become manifest,” St. Paul writes, “it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done … If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire” (1 Cor 3:13, 15). Being saved through fire suggests a removal of impurities. This corresponds with purgatory. “Purgatory” means “purification.” As the Catechism explains, “All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy

of heaven. The Church gives the name Purgatory to this final purification of the elect” (CCC 1030-31).

I find the most useful Scripture verse to help explain the doctrine of purgatory to Protestants to be Revelation 21:27, which states that “nothing unclean” will enter heaven. I ask if they believe they will go to heaven if they believe in Jesus and repent They say yes. Then I ask whether they think believing in Jesus makes them perfectly pure. If they have any self-awareness, they will say no. When I point to this verse, they conclude that God must do something to purify the souls of the elect after death. I say, “That final purification before heaven is what Catholics call purgatory.”

PURGATORY TRANSFORMS

Heaven is not the dwelling place of unrighteous souls let in because Jesus paid the price of their admission: it is the final abode of the saints who have been transformed by the love of Christ. Pope Benedict XVI, in his encyclical on hope, “Spe Salvi,” describes purgatory as an encounter with Jesus that “burns us, transforms and frees us, allowing us to become truly ourselves.” This encounter is “a blessed pain, in which the holy power of (Christ’s) love sears through us like a flame, enabling us to become totally ourselves and thus totally of God” (47). Understood this way, the doctrine is an extension of Church teachings on mercy. If the final purgation of the dead is primarily the work of Christ, what difference is made by our prayers for them? We will let Pope Benedict have the final word: “No one lives alone. No one sins alone. No one is saved alone. The lives of others continually spill over into mine ...So my prayer for another is not something extraneous to that person, something external, not even after death. In the interconnectedness of Being, my gratitude to the other – my prayer for him – can play a small part in his purification. … It is never too late to touch the heart of another, nor is it ever in vain” (“Spe Salvi,” 48).

DEACON MATTHEW NEWSOME, Catholic campus minister at Western Carolina University and regional faith formation coordinator for the Smoky Mountain Vicariate, is the author of “The Devout Life: A Modern Guide to Practical Holiness with St. Francis de Sales,” available from Sophia Institute Press.

NOV. 23-29

Sunday (Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe): 2 Sam 5:1-3, Ps 122:1-2, 3-4, 4-5, Col 1:12-20, Lk 23:35-43

Monday (St. Andrew Dung-Lac, Priest, and Companions, Martyrs): Dan 1:1-6, 8-20, Dan 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56, Lk 21:1-4

Tuesday: Dan 2:31-45, Dan 3:57, 58, 59, 60, 61, Lk 21:5-11

Wednesday: Dan 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28, Dan 3:62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, Lk 21:12-19

Thursday: Dan 6:12-28, Dan 3:68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, Lk 21:20-28

Friday: Dan 7:2-14, Dan 3:75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, Lk 21:29-33

Saturday: Dan 7:15-27, Dan 3:82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, Lk 21:34-36

NOV. 30-DEC. 6

Sunday (First Sunday of Advent): Is 2:1-5, Ps 122: 1-2, 3-4, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, Rom 13:11-14, Mt 24:37-44

Monday: Is 4:2-6, Ps 122:1-2, 3-4b, 4cd-5, 6-7, 8-9, Mt 8:5-11

Tuesday: Is 11:1-10, Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17, Lk 10:21-24

Wednesday: Is 25:6-10a, Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6, Mt 15:29-37

Thursday: Is 26:1-6, Ps 118:1 and 8-9, 19-21, 25-27a, Mt 7:21, 24-27

Friday: Is 29:17-24, Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14, Mt 9:27-31

Saturday: Is 30:19-21, 23-26, Ps 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, Mt 9:35-10:1, 5a, 6-8

DEC. 7-13

Sunday (Second Sunday of Advent): Is 11:1-10, Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17, Rom 15:4-9, Mt 3:1-12

Monday (Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary): Gen 3:9-15, 20, Ps 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4, Eph 1:36, 11-12, Lk 1:26-38

Tuesday: Is 40:1-11, Ps 96:1-2, 3 and 10ac, 11-12, 13, Mt 18:12-14

Wednesday: Is 40:25-31, Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 8 and 10, Mt 11:28-30

Thursday: Is 41:13-20, Ps 145:1 and 9, 10-11, 12-13ab, Mt 11:11-15

Saturday (Memorial of St. Lucy, Virgin and Martyr): Sir 48:1-4, 9-11, Ps 80:2ac and 3b, 15-16, 18-19, Mt 17:9a, 10-13 Daily Scripture readings

Friday (Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe): Zech 2:14-17 or Rev 11:19a, 12:1-6a, 10ab, Jud 13:18bcde, 19, Lk 1:26-38 or Lk 1:39-47

Our diocese

FEDERAL IMMIGRATION OPERATION IN CHARLOTTE

Bishop Martin calls for prayer, fasting, outreach to immigrants

Stand with migrants but ‘do not vilify’ federal agents, he urges

CHARLOTTE — Bishop Michael Martin, OFM Conv., is urging all Catholics to pray, fast and contact their elected representatives in response to immigration actions taking place in Charlotte this week.

Since being deployed Nov. 15, U.S. Border Patrol agents have detained hundreds of people in predominantly immigrant communities in east, north and south Charlotte.

The Border Patrol activity has stirred fear throughout the communities, sparked protests, and drawn objections from local government and civic leaders and immigration advocates. While immigration actions have not occurred at the Diocese of Charlotte’s churches or schools, pastors and principals have been working to reassure families and have curtailed some on-site activities.

In a letter Tuesday to the people of the diocese, Bishop Martin reiterated his concerns for migrants living in fear and he called Catholics to action:

Mybrothers and sisters in Christ,

While I have no words to practically address the fear and uncertainty that many are feeling with the increased presence of federal immigration officials in the Charlotte metro area, I want to call upon all Catholics and people of goodwill to give witness to the message of Jesus. Our faith teaches us to come to the aid of the poor, marginalized and most vulnerable. “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35).

In an effort to respond to this call of the Gospel, I offer these simple suggestions:

n Reach out to those living daily with this uncertainty and assure them of our love and care for them.

n Observe this Friday, Nov. 21, as a day of prayer and fasting in solidarity with all migrants around the world.

n Do not vilify federal agents who have been sent to our community.

n Contact your elected representatives in Washington and let them know that comprehensive immigration reform is long overdue, and, given that both political parties have repeatedly called for this, it is their responsibility to get it done for the common good.

To those of you who are afraid to come to church, you are not obligated to attend Mass when you are inhibited from doing so by circumstances beyond your control, as the Church has always taught. I encourage you to take consolation in Jesus’ refrain when the disciples were in the boat being swamped by stormy seas: “Do not be afraid!” (Matthew 14:27). Your brothers and sisters are praying with you, and on your behalf, to God who desires our citizenship together in heaven and longs to see us live in harmony with each other on earth.

As I am currently in Rome, I will be greeting Pope Leo XIV at his Wednesday morning audience in St. Peter’s Square and will ask him to continue to remember in prayer the people of our diocese and all migrants, especially during this challenging time. Please be assured that we will get through this together, if we focus our attention on the only One, Jesus Christ, who can save us all. Peace,

+ Most Rev. Michael T. Martin Bishop of Charlotte

Parishes reassure, adjust amid Border Patrol activity in Charlotte

BRIAN SEGOVIA AND LISA M. GERACI catholicnews@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — On a typical Sunday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, seats fill quickly and Masses are standing room only.

But last Sunday was different: attendance at the diocese’s largest Hispanic parish dropped by more than 50%, a stark sign of growing fear amid recent immigrationrelated arrests that have left some businesses closed and streets quiet across parts of the Queen City.

While no immigration actions have occurred at the Diocese of Charlotte’s churches or schools, leaders are reassuring families, scaling back some activities, and adjusting day by day to meet community needs.

that has seen impacts from the federal immigration operation.

U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested more than 200 people in Charlotte between Nov. 15 and 17 during a federal immigration operation dubbed “Charlotte’s Web.”

The operation is the latest step of the Trump administration’s strategy of putting federal immigration enforcement agents at street level in some of America’s largest and most progressive cities.

More inside

ON PAGE 24: U.S.

bishops denounce vilification of immigrants in ‘Special Pastoral Message on Immigration”

Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a Nov. 15 statement that they are “surging law enforcement to Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed.”

While federal authorities said they are targeting undocumented migrants with criminal records, many Hispanic Catholics in Charlotte say they are living in fear of being arbitrarily swept up in the operation – regardless of their documentation status. They are quick to cite news reports elsewhere of citizens without criminal histories being arrested and families being torn apart.

“I have had parishioners who are documented tell me they are living with anxiety at this time,” said Father José Gregorio García Rubio, one of three Vincentian priests who serve Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. “Even for me as a legally documented person, I don’t want to put myself out there too much.”

On Sunday, Our Lady of Guadalupe leaders decided to cancel this week’s scheduled activities including their food pantry, hold faith formation classes virtually, and remind people about their livestreamed Masses.

Vincentian Father Bruce Krause said parishioners have become increasingly tense over the past few months, but this week’s Border Patrol activity in the city has prompted many to stay at home.

“It’s an eerie feeling, like during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Father Krause said. “Yet I believe the anxiety is much higher than it was before.”

One key program affected was the Casa Marillac food pantry, which typically serves hundreds of families every Wednesday with support from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Second Harvest Food Bank. The parish is now exploring alternative ways to continue distributing food to those in need.

“I’ve cried all day thinking about someone in need not being able to receive the food they need,” said pantry organizer Lupita Nava.

Our Lady of Guadalupe is not the only parish

Our Lady of the Assumption Parish saw a 50% decline in attendance across its Spanish Masses last weekend. Father José Enrique González-Gaytan, pastor, said the parish is offering a livestreamed Mass for those afraid to come to church.

Attendance at St. John Neumann Parish’s two Spanish Masses last weekend “was way down,” said Father John Starczewski, pastor. The weekend Hispanic food sale also struggled after some volunteers did not show up. Father Starczewski has shifted meetings and programs to video calls for now, responding to the current anxiety and working to reassure parishioners.

“My job is to serve them in the church and bring them the God of salvation,” he said. “Right now, I can only play it by ear and see what is going on, and then respond and do what I can do. We just want to give them that encouragement that they are not alone.”

Just outside Mecklenburg County in Concord, attendance at St. James the Greater Parish’s Spanish Mass also fell by about 50% last weekend, to roughly 500 people. In response to some parishioners’ concerns, the parish canceled this week’s faith formation and OCIA classes.

“We keep following the direction of the bishop to be peaceful and calm ... but people are in fear,” said Gustavo Gallo, the parish’s faith formation director.

Despite the concerns, Vincentian Father Marvin Navas, Our Lady of Guadalupe’s pastor, is urging parishioners to find comfort in their faith.

“We must be careful not to cause alarm and be patient as to not spread misinformation,” Father Navas said. Feeling forced to stay away from church and the sacraments feels like a persecution, he said.

BISHOPS EXPRESS CONCERN, CALL PEOPLE TO ACTION

The Border Patrol activity in Charlotte came a few days after the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a “special pastoral message on immigration” Nov. 12 that voiced dismay over immigration enforcement policies and practices that disregard basic human dignity. Bishop Michael Martin supported the message and also urged everyone to consider their views on immigration through the lens of Church teaching.

“Ask yourself if your political views are forming your religious beliefs or if your religious beliefs are forming your political views,” he said. “Jesus calls us to the latter.”

On Tuesday, in response to the federal immigration operation in Charlotte, Bishop Martin went further –sharing a special message to the people of the Diocese

OPERATIVO MIGRATORIO FEDERAL EN CHARLOTTE

El obispo Martin pide

un día de oración y ayuno tras las acciones de inmigración

CHARLOTTE — El obispo Michael Martin, OFM Conv., está exhortando a todos los católicos a orar, ayunar y contactar a sus representantes electos en respuesta a las acciones de inmigración que están ocurriendo esta semana en Charlotte. Desde su despliegue el 15 de noviembre, agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza de EE. UU. han detenido a más de 200 personas en comunidades de inmigrantes en el este, norte y sur de Charlotte. La actividad de la Patrulla Fronteriza ha provocado temor en estas comunidades, ha generado protestas y ha suscitado objeciones de líderes cívicos y del gobierno local, además de defensores de los inmigrantes. Aunque no ha habido acciones de inmigración en las iglesias o escuelas de la Diócesis de Charlotte, los párrocos y directores han estado trabajando para tranquilizar a las familias y han reducido algunas actividades presenciales. En una carta enviada el martes al pueblo de la diócesis, el obispo Martin reiteró su preocupación por los migrantes que viven con miedo y convocó un día de ayuno y oración el viernes 21 de noviembre, en solidaridad con todos los migrantes. — Catholic News Herald

Mishermanos y hermanas en Cristo:

Aunque no tengo palabras que puedan aliviar de manera práctica el miedo y la incertidumbre que muchos están sintiendo ante la presencia creciente de funcionarios federales de inmigración en el área metropolitana de Charlotte, quiero hacer un llamado a todos los católicos y a todas las personas de buena voluntad a dar testimonio del mensaje de Jesús. Nuestra fe nos enseña a acudir en ayuda de los pobres, los marginados y los más vulnerables. “Porque tuve hambre y me diste de comer, tuve sed y me diste de beber, era forastero y me recibiste” (Mateo 25, 35).

En un esfuerzo por responder a este llamado del Evangelio, ofrezco estas sencillas sugerencias:

n Acérquense a quienes viven cada día con esta incertidumbre y asegúrenles nuestro amor y cuidado por ellos.

n Observen este viernes, 21 de noviembre, como un día de oración y ayuno en solidaridad con todos los migrantes del mundo.

n No vilifiquen a los agentes federales que han sido enviados a nuestra comunidad.

n Contacte a sus representantes electos en Washington D.C. y háganles saber que una reforma migratoria integral lleva mucho tiempo pendiente y que, dado que ambos partidos políticos la han solicitado repetidamente, es su responsabilidad lograrla por el bien común.

A aquellos de ustedes que tienen miedo de venir a la iglesia, recuerden que no están obligados a asistir a Misa cuando circunstancias fuera de su control se lo impiden, como la Iglesia siempre ha enseñado. Los animo a encontrar consuelo en el refrán de Jesús cuando los discípulos estaban en la barca, inundada por mares tormentosos: “¡No tengan miedo!” (Mateo 14, 27). Sus hermanos y hermanas están orando con ustedes y por ustedes, al Dios que desea nuestra ciudadanía conjunta en el cielo y que anhela vernos vivir en armonía aquí en la tierra. Como me encuentro actualmente en Roma, saludaré al Papa León XIV en su audiencia del miércoles por la mañana en la Plaza de San Pedro y le pediré que siga recordando en sus oraciones al pueblo de nuestra diócesis y a todos los migrantes, especialmente en este momento tan difícil. Tengan la certeza de que saldremos adelante juntos, si mantenemos nuestra atención en el único que puede salvarnos a todos: Jesucristo. Paz, + El Reverendísimo Michael T. Martin Obispo de Charlotte

Parroquias ajustan actividades ante presencia de Patrulla Fronteriza en Charlotte

BRIAN SEGOVIA Y LISA M. GERACI catholicnews@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — En un domingo típico en la Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, los asientos se llenan rápidamente y muchas personas deben permanecer de pie durante la Misa.

Pero el domingo pasado fue diferente: la asistencia en la parroquia hispana más grande de la diócesis cayó más del 50%, una señal clara del creciente temor tras recientes arrestos relacionados con inmigración que han dejado algunos negocios cerrados y las calles desiertas en partes de la Ciudad Reina.

Aunque no se han producido acciones de inmigración en las iglesias o escuelas de la Diócesis de Charlotte, los líderes están tranquilizando a las familias, reduciendo algunas actividades presenciales y ajustándose día a día para responder a las necesidades de la comunidad.

Agentes de la Patrulla Fronteriza de EE. UU. arrestaron a más de 200 personas en Charlotte entre el 15 y el 17 de noviembre durante una operación federal de inmigración denominado “Charlotte’s Web”. La operación es el último paso más reciente de la estrategia de la administración del presidente Trump de desplegar agentes federales de inmigración en la calle en algunas de las ciudades más grandes de los Estados Unidos.

miércoles con apoyo del Departamento de Policía de Charlotte-Mecklenburg y el banco de alimentos Second Harvest. La parroquia ahora busca formas alternativas de continuar distribuyendo alimentos a quienes los necesitan.

“He llorado todo el día pensando en alguien que necesita alimentos y no puede recibirlos”, dijo Lupita Nava, organizadora de la despensa.

Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe no es la única parroquia afectada por la operación federal de inmigración.

La Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

vio una disminución del 50% en la asistencia a sus Misas en español el fin de semana pasado. El padre José Enrique González-Gaytán, párroco, dijo que la parroquia ofrece Misas transmitidas en línea para quienes temen asistir a la iglesia.

La subsecretaria adjunta de Seguridad Nacional, Tricia McLaughlin, dijo en un comunicado que están “enviando fuerzas del orden a Charlotte para garantizar la seguridad de los estadounidenses y remover amenazas a la seguridad pública”.

Más adentro

EN LA PÁGINA 19: Obispos de EE.UU. denuncian la difamación de inmigrantes en el “Mensaje Pastoral Especial sobre Inmigración”

Aunque las autoridades federales indicaron que están enfocándose en inmigrantes indocumentados con antecedentes penales, muchos católicos hispanos en Charlotte aseguran vivir con miedo de ser detenidos arbitrariamente durante la operación, independientemente de su estatus migratorio. Señalan rápidamente noticias de otros lugares donde ciudadanos sin antecedentes fueron arrestados y familias separadas. “Algunos feligreses documentados me han dicho que están viviendo con ansiedad en este momento”, dijo el padre José Gregorio García Rubio, uno de los tres sacerdotes vicencianos que sirven en la Parroquia Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. “Incluso para mí, que estoy legalmente documentado, no quiero exponerme demasiado”.

El domingo, los líderes de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe decidieron cancelar las actividades programadas de la semana, incluida la despensa de alimentos, ofrecer las clases de formación de fe de manera virtual y recordar a la comunidad sobre las Misas transmitidas en línea.

El padre vicenciano Bruce Krause señaló que los feligreses se han vuelto cada vez más tensos en los últimos meses, pero la actividad de la Patrulla Fronteriza esta semana en la ciudad ha hecho que muchos prefieran quedarse en casa.

“Es una sensación extraña, como durante la pandemia de COVID-19”, dijo el padre Krause. “Sin embargo, creo que la ansiedad es mucho mayor que antes”. Uno de los programas clave afectados fue la despensa de alimentos Casa Marillac, que normalmente atiende a cientos de familias cada

La asistencia a las dos Misas en español de la Parroquia San Juan Neumann el fin de semana pasado “fue mucho menor”, dijo el padre John Starczewski, párroco. La venta de alimentos hispana del fin de semana también sufrió porque algunos voluntarios no asistieron. El padre Starczewski ha trasladado reuniones y programas a videollamadas, respondiendo a la ansiedad actual y buscando tranquilizar a los feligreses.

“Mi trabajo es servirles en la iglesia y llevarles el Dios de la salvación”, dijo. “Ahora solo puedo ir viendo qué pasa y responder lo que pueda. Solo queremos darles ese aliento de que no están solos”.

Justo fuera del condado de Mecklenburg, en Concord, la asistencia a la Misa en español de la Parroquia Santiago el Mayor también cayó alrededor del 50% el fin de semana pasado, a aproximadamente 500 personas. En respuesta a las preocupaciones de algunos feligreses, la parroquia canceló las clases de formación de fe y OCIA de esta semana.

“Seguimos las indicaciones del obispo de ser pacíficos y mantener la calma… pero la gente tiene miedo”, dijo Gustavo Gallo, director de formación de fe de la parroquia.

A pesar de las preocupaciones, el padre vicenciano Marvin Navas, párroco de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, insta a los feligreses a encontrar consuelo en su fe.

“Debemos tener cuidado de no causar alarma y ser pacientes para no difundir información errónea”, dijo el padre Navas. “Sentirse obligados a mantenerse alejados de la iglesia y de los sacramentos se siente como una persecución.”

LOS OBISPOS EXPRESAN PREOCUPACIÓN Y LLAMAN A LA ACCIÓN

La actividad de la Patrulla Fronteriza en Charlotte ocurrió pocos días después de que la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos emitiera un “mensaje pastoral especial sobre inmigración” el 12 de noviembre, en el que expresaba su consternación por las políticas y prácticas de aplicación de la ley migratoria que ignoran la dignidad humana básica. El obispo Michael Martin apoyó el mensaje y también

For the latest news 24/7: catholicnewsherald.com

In Brief

St. Mark offers Mass for miscarriage and stillbirth loss

HUNTERSVILLE — Parishioners and visitors attended a special Mass of Consolation for parents who suffered miscarriage and stillbirth loss Nov. 15 at St. Mark Church.

The Mass was offered by Father Christopher Angermeyer, parochial vicar, who in his homily noted that loss of a child through miscarriage or stillbirth is among the least discussed issues in society, yet many parents suffer from this pain and grief. He invited attendees to pray for those who have suffered miscarriage and stillbirth and to be present with them in their grieving. Worshipers lit white candles to remember the lives lost.

After Mass a reception included remarks from Deacon Thomas Martin and his wife Heather, who have experienced the loss of a child by miscarriage. The annual event was organized by the parish’s Respect Life Committee and co-sponsored by the Diocese of Charlotte Family Life Office and Carolina Pro-Life Action Network. Support materials distributed at the event from Red Bird Ministries, a Catholic childloss grief support ministry from Louisiana, are available at www.redbird.love.

— Mike FitzGerald, correspondent

Relics of St. Charbel draw crowds

HENDERSONVILLE — People from across the Diocese of Charlotte came to Immaculate Conception Church Nov. 3-5 to venerate the first-class relics of St. Charbel Makhlouf.

The parish hosted five veneration events –each drawing 300 to 500 people – in which either the pastor, Father Andres Gutierrez, or one of the custodians of the relics spoke about the life and miraculous intercession of St. Charbel. Those present were blessed with the blessed relic oil of St. Charbel and venerated the relics of the saint and six others – including St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross.

“I think people are in search of true heroes, real people they can look up to and learn from,” Father Gutierrez said. “The saints are the true heroes of our faith and, by extension, of how life should be lived here on Earth. They ‘made it,’ and this fills our life with real hope for us to reach our heavenly homeland with the help of their powerful intercession and the example of their incredible lives.”

St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Charlotte and Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro also hosted the relics in November as part of an international tour organized by The Travelling Face of Jesus.

— Brittany Whitehead

Tiny houses make a big impact on local homeless veterans

LISA M. GERACI lmgeraci@rcdoc.org

HIGH POINT — Immaculate Heart of Mary parishioners have raised more than $40,000 and keep pounding away to house homeless individuals and families in a tiny home veteran-only community.

The steady hammering of nails and hum of the bandsaw created by IHM Habitat for Humanity volunteers are soothing to Scott Jones, founder of Tiny House Development Inc.

They mark growth in the eighthouse community and in the lives of the veterans and volunteers who are constructing them.

“It takes a lot longer for us to build, but being out here with the volunteers, listening to them interact, and feeling that emotion, it is just something that is hard to describe,” Jones said. “It’s not ours. The community is the one that has put this here, not Tiny House.”

This development will be Jones’ third build in the past 10 years in the Triad and the first dedicated solely to homeless veterans.

Each neighborhood houses homeless Guilford County residents – a number that is on the rise, growing from 452 in 2023 to 641 in 2024. Among them are military veterans.

“There are around 80 veterans who are homeless in this area, mostly single, but there are plenty of families in need, too,” Jones said.

“There’s a known pool out there in halfway houses and shelters. I’ll be reaching out to them once the paint goes on these walls,” he said.

One of these two-bedroom homes intended for veteran families will soon bear the nameplate “Immaculate Heart of Mary House” due to the efforts of the IHM Military, Veterans, and Families Outreach ministry.

A year ago, when parishioners Bob Valliere and Russ Ditzel heard about Jones’ latest project, a veteran-only community in the heart of High Point on Smith Street, they were all in, and soon enough, so was the entire congregation.

“We knew through this project that we could directly take one homeless veteran off the street and put them in a home,”

said Valliere, who is a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel.

Last year’s Veterans Day weekend, Valliere, with the support of Father Patrick O’Connor, the pastor of IHM, and the backing of the ministry, led a

presentation after all Masses, expressing the ambitious goal of raising $20,000 for a one-bedroom tiny home to house one veteran.

By Epiphany, they had far surpassed

HOW TO HELP

Every Tuesday, IHM volunteers travel to Greensboro, bringing donated groceries and cooking blueberry pancakes for 30 to 50 guests from halfway houses and homeless shelters. The IHM Christmas Giving Tree Program is preparing gift tags to help clothe the homeless and provide household items for the first six veteran tiny houses that will be occupied in 2026. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.tinyhousesgreensboro.com.

their goal, Ditzel said. “Then we got a very generous donation from a retired Air Force colonel for $10,000.”

The funds were enough to sponsor a 687-square-foot, two-bedroom home for a veteran family that will move in when construction is complete.

“I thank the Lord for the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church coming to help us,” Jones said.

“It’s not just the money but the number

Giving Tuesday highlights the reason for the Christmas season

CHARLOTTE — As Advent quickly approaches, so does a day of great generosity.

Reserve some money from shopping on Black Friday and Cyber Monday to give to Catholic-related charitable efforts on Tuesday, Dec. 2.

The Tuesday after Thanksgiving has become known as “Giving Tuesday” and provides a way to combat the commercialization that has attempted to overtake the

true meaning of Christmas. Catholics can focus their charitable giving on this day in numerous ways.

The #iGiveCatholic campaign, a national crowdfunding movement, has grown rapidly since its 2015 inception, engaging Catholic dioceses, schools, ministries and nonprofits.

Giving Tuesday invites faithful stewards to “Give Thanks, Give Back and Give Catholic.” The campaign is open online now through Dec. 9 on www.igivecatholic. org. Its new website features

additional ways to give, including Venmo and PayPal. This year, more than 50 U.S. dioceses are joining forces, amplifying the impact of Catholic giving. In 2024, the campaign raised more than $23 million from nearly 58,000 donors across all 50 states and 20 countries, demonstrating the breadth of support for Catholic ministries.

Three men to be ordained deacons in December

TRISH STUKBAUER tmstukbauer@rcdoc.org

HENDERSONVILLE — This December, three men will be ordained deacons as they take this step toward the priesthood together for the Diocese of Charlotte.

Daniel Chaves Peña and Juan González Hernández, both from Immaculate Conception Parish in Hendersonville, and Hendersonville native James Connor Tweed of St. John the Baptist Parish in nearby Tryon will be ordained to holy orders Dec. 6 at Immaculate Conception Church in Hendersonville.

The church was selected because both Chaves and González have served in varied capacities there for the past two years, and Tweed has deep ties to the area, explained Father John Eckert, director of vocations for the diocese.

González’s journey to the priesthood had its roots in his first Holy Communion. He received the sacrament from his

The sciences that led to the seminary

As a young man, seminarian James Tweed dreamed of discovering the wonders of history and studying the life of the world’s oceans. He wanted to be an archaeologist and marine biologist while he was in high school.

As the years passed, his talents led him to studies in molecular biology, chemistry and math. He worked at the Max Planck Neuroscience Institute and considered studying medicine at the University of Miami.

Yet he also felt called to something more. He felt a call to the priesthood in high school but pursued other interests.

Then, while attending a Steubenville retreat in Atlanta, there was a call for men considering the priesthood to stand up. Suddenly, everything became clear. Those other paths fell away and he embarked on the path of the Gospel.

Tweed is in his final year of theology studies at The Athenaeum in Ohio.

His background has come in handy during his time at seminary. This summer, he served as an interfaith chaplain at Atrium Health’s Trauma Center at Carolinas Medical Center.

What are your hobbies? Working out, writing poetry and prose, walking in the woods, oil painting and hosting friends. What is your favorite saint? The Blessed Virgin Mary. When I’m with her, I feel very close to Jesus. What is your favorite Bible verse? “For she is a breath of the power of God, and a pure emanation of the glory of the Almighty; therefore nothing defiled gains entrance into her. For she is a reflection of eternal light, a spotless mirror of the working of God, and an image of his goodness” (Wisdom 7:25-26).

What was your journey of discernment like? God planted the seed of my vocation from my earliest years. It grew quietly, nurtured by grace, the sacraments and the loving care of my family. There were moments when I sensed I was set apart for something special, though I couldn’t yet see what that would be. Then came the moment during the Steubenville retreat in Atlanta. I was completely unprepared – the thought had never even entered my mind. I did not want this path, and I could not have imagined choosing it myself. Yet, in that moment, I felt an irresistible movement within my heart. It was as if the Lord spoke my name in a way that embraced my whole being, drawing me with a love both commanding and tender. Almost before I knew it, I stood. In that moment, I understood with clarity and joy that my life belonged to Him.

What has your experience been like so far in the seminary? The greatest joy has been the lifelong bonds formed with my brothers, discerning the Lord’s call alongside me. These friendships, rooted in prayer, shared struggles and mutual encouragement, are a constant source of joy and strength. Any advice for men considering the priesthood? The joy, peace and purpose that come from embracing God’s plan for your life far surpass any earthly attachment. Do not be afraid to trust Him, even when the path is unclear. God’s call is a gift.

— Christina Lee Knauss

brother during his brother’s first Mass as a priest. Because of that experience, González understands what being a priest will mean to those who will come in contact with him.

“I am aware that I will become a representation of Christ’s Church,” he said. “Yes, it is a big responsibility, but I am also conscious of the fact that God’s grace will take charge of my role.”

Tweed was on a very different path early in life. He dreamed of becoming an archaeologist or marine biologist before he got pulled into studying medicine and then realized his true calling during a retreat in Atlanta.

“I was completely unprepared – the thought had never even entered my mind,” he recalled. “Almost before I knew it, I stood. In that moment, I understood with clarity and joy that my life belonged to Him.”

Chaves’ journey to the priesthood has been a beautiful learning process.

“Many think that this process is saying yes and that’s it,

God’s call put runner on different track

Daniel Chaves Peña thought he had his life all worked out. A track star living in New Jersey, he was close to achieving his dreams as an athlete, but suddenly his life changed. God had different plans for him – plans to which he eventually would say yes.

Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Chaves moved to New Jersey in 1993 at a young age. As he matured, so did the quiet call God was placing in his heart. He entered seminary and completed his philosophical studies in Spain in 2010. His journey of formation led him to missions in Peru from 2016 to 2018, and then to Rome, where he earned his Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology in 2021. In 2023, Chaves joined the Diocese of Charlotte’s seminary program and is serving the community of Immaculate Conception Parish in Hendersonville as he awaits receiving holy orders.

When did you first feel a calling to the priesthood? When I got to what was going to be my last year of high school, I ran cross-country and I was doing pretty well. I had many scholarship offers from universities here in the United States, and in the final race of the state championship in New Jersey, I collapsed just before reaching the finish line. They rushed me to the ER, and they told me it was my sugar levels – they were extremely low. That began a crisis not only health-wise, but spiritually. And I wasn’t getting better. I had relapses, so the decision was made for me to return to Colombia with my mom.

It was during that crisis when I had to face reality. Because everyone thought my future was so bright, and suddenly I realized life ends and things aren’t just fun or passing time. You face reality and the question arises. And as I said, it wasn’t just “change your life” but “give yourself to Me.” But that was a vague first call that I didn’t fully understand until much later.

How did life in Colombia lead to you choosing this calling? When I went to Colombia, I reconnected with the Church through my paternal grandparents, especially through the Charismatic Renewal at the Minuto de Dios, a very strong movement in Colombia. Even though I’ve never felt particularly drawn to the Charismatic Renewal, it was like the door that opened for me to search for what I was looking for. And eventually that same grandmother took me to a silent weekend retreat – an Ignatian retreat in Bogotá – where I found the call.

At that retreat I remember thinking, yes, maybe this is it, but we’re always reluctant to face what God asks of us because we know God asks for a lot. So there was that fear: if I say yes, everything else is over. But the thought kept returning, resonating, until I said, I can’t live with myself if I say no.

What does your family think about your decision to be a priest? My dad always supported me and told me, “If that’s what you believe God is asking, go ahead.” My mom had a harder time because moms are moms, and I’m her only child. That bond is special, and it isn’t easy – I understand that. She didn’t oppose it directly, but you could tell she didn’t share that ideal at first. But beautifully, as time has gone by, she’s now a model Catholic.

— Brian Segovia

homework finished, but that’s not true,” he said. “It’s about growing one’s faith and to pursue God in everything.”

This will be Father Eckert’s first ordination Mass as vocations director.

“I’m grateful and honored that Bishop Martin asked me to step into the role,” he said. “To get to stand up there on their behalf in such a special way and to do so in December is like an early Christmas present for us all.”

After their ordination, these three men will be considered “transitional” deacons as compared to “permanent” deacons. Transitional deacons generally serve a year in pastoral, liturgical and educational preparation before they are considered for ordination to the priesthood in May 2026. Permanent deacons can be married and do not go on to be ordained priests.

All are welcome to attend the 10 a.m. Mass Saturday, Dec. 6, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, located at 208 7th Ave. in Hendersonville.

Following a family tradition of service

For some, serving the Kingdom of God as a priest is an intimidating calling, but Juan González Hernández knew from the age of 7 that God had plans for him.

González’s devout Catholic upbringing in Mexico City led him to encounter his vocation in one of the most moving ways possible – witnessing his brother’s ordination to the priesthood and receiving his first Holy Communion from him during his first Mass. Born on Oct. 1, 1990, in Tapalapa, Chiapas, González grew up in a faithfilled family where service to the Church was a natural part of life, with siblings who went on to become priests, religious sisters and educators. His early calling led him to formation in Spain in 2007, followed by ministry in Peru and advanced theological studies in Rome, where he completed master’s degrees in philosophy and moral theology in 2021. Drawn to serve the Hispanic Catholic community, González is assigned to Immaculate Conception Parish in Hendersonville and lives at St. Joseph College Seminary in Mount Holly. Choosing Deacon Bryan Ilagor to vest him at his diaconate ordination, González continues to prepare for priesthood while enjoying music, literature and hiking as he deepens his commitment to a life of service in Christ.

When did you first feel a calling to the priesthood? It was the day that my brother was ordained a priest in 1997 when I was just about to turn 7 years old. On that day, the light bulb in me lit up and I asked myself, “What if I myself become a priest one day, like my brother?”

What was it like to continue your studies by leaving for Spain? My brother, a priest, and two of my sisters, who were cloistered nuns, lived there. My brother studied in Spain while in seminary and my sisters were also a part of the institute Obra de Amor, which brought them to Spain.

Having them there was helpful, because even though it was a new experience for me, I could be close to my family and learn from them.

What does it mean to you to be able to serve the Hispanic community in this diocese? I have lived in many different places with a variety of cultures. I feel as though I mold well to both communities, the Anglo and Hispanic communities. So the idea that my mentor at Immaculate Conception in Hendersonville, Father Andrés Gutierrez, has mentioned is to create a singular and strong community out of both of those cultures. That way, people do not show divisions but, rather, the church becomes a place where everyone feels like one community.

What will it mean for you to become a deacon? It is a radical change in my life, because after this moment I will be a representative of not only the Church, but of Jesus Christ. Of course, the responsibility is much bigger, but I am also conscious that God’s grace, the prayers of the faithful and a spiritual life, help to take charge of that weight.

—Brian Segovia

Faith amid fear

BRIAN SEGOVIA AND LISA M. GERACI catholicnews@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE

— Despite deepening fears throughout Hispanic communities, several thousand Hispanic parishioners across the Diocese of Charlotte turned out to greet the Guadalupe Torch, as the symbol of hope for immigrants made its annual pilgrimage from Mexico City to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York.

With looming threats of federal immigration actions coming to Charlotte, the Guadalupe Torch Run made fewer stops this year, passing through the diocese from Nov. 8 to Nov. 12 and skipping Charlotte all together. But the reception at the seven churches that welcomed the torch was perhaps more poignant.

Nearly 1,000 people showed up at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in High Point to get a glimpse of the beacon meant to link family members in Mexico with those in the U.S. The torch evoked tears for parishioners at St. Joseph in Newton, as they reflected on the tense immigration climate and

on the idea that family in Mexico had touched the very same torch.

And in Mocksville, at St. Francis of Assisi, the torch brought healing for the Perez family, who recently lost their 14-year-old son to leukemia, driving them away from God.

“It felt like the Fire of the Spirit in that torch,” said Father Patrick O’Connor, pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary, who held the torch for the first time Nov. 11.

“The community is facing such struggles due to the political climate with the arrests and deportations, and living with a lot of fear. What a beautiful metaphor to have the image of Our Lady come across from Mexico into the

Guadalupe Torch visits diocese, uniting immigrants at tense time

United States and join us here in this little town of High Point.”

The torch honors Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patroness of both Americas. In previous years, people have carried the torch – running, walking or driving – from parish to parish, stopping at Catholic churches for Mass and celebrations. While this year’s pilgrimage was less

conspicuous, with a number of churches declining participation, it still drew big crowds at smaller churches mostly in less populated areas.

The flame crossed into North Carolina from Simpsonville, South Carolina, a week before U.S. Border Patrol arrived in Charlotte to conduct Operation Charlotte’s Web, rounding up immigrants

they said had committed crimes. It headed first for St. Joseph in Newton – bypassing Asheville and Hendersonville – zigzagging its way toward Raleigh with stops at six other churches in the Diocese of Charlotte along the way.

The 70- to 80-day pilgrimage began Aug. 30 when

Fe en tiempos de miedo

CHARLOTTE

— A pesar del creciente temor en las comunidades hispanas, varios miles de feligreses hispanos de toda la Diócesis de Charlotte acudieron a recibir la Antorcha Guadalupana, el símbolo de esperanza para los inmigrantes que realiza su peregrinación anual desde la Ciudad de México hasta la Catedral de San Patricio en Nueva York.

Con las inminentes amenazas dCon las inminentes amenazas de acciones federales de inmigración en Charlotte, la Carrera de la Antorcha Guadalupana hizo menos paradas este año mientras atravesaba la diócesis del 8 al 12 de noviembre, y omitió por completo a la ciudad de Charlotte. Pero la recepción en las siete iglesias que la acogieron fue quizás más conmovedora.

Casi 1,000 personas se presentaron en la parroquia Immaculate Heart of Mary (Inmaculado Corazón de María) en High Point para ver de cerca el faro destinado a unir a las familias en México con las que están en Estados Unidos. fzigLa antorcha provocó lágrimas entre los feligreses de St. Joseph (San José) en Newton, al reflexionar sobre el tenso clima migratorio y sobre la idea de que sus familiares en México habían tocado esa misma antorcha.

Y en Mocksville, en St. Francis of Assisi (San Francisco de Asís), la antorcha trajo sanación a la familia Pérez, que recientemente perdió a su hijo de 14 años a causa de la leucemia, lo que los había alejado de Dios.

“Se sintió como el Fuego del Espíritu en esa antorcha”, dijo el padre Patrick O’Connor, párroco de Immaculate Heart of Mary, quien sostuvo la antorcha por primera vez el 11 de noviembre.

“La comunidad está enfrentando tantas luchas debido al clima político con los arrestos y las deportaciones, y viven con mucho miedo. Qué hermosa metáfora tener la imagen de Nuestra Señora viniendo desde México a Estados Unidos y uniéndose a nosotros aquí en este pequeño pueblo de High Point.”

La antorcha honra a Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, patrona de las Américas. En años anteriores, la gente ha llevado la antorcha —corriendo, caminando o manejando— de parroquia en parroquia, deteniéndose en iglesias católicas para Misas y celebraciones. Aunque la

La Antorcha Guadalupana visita la diócesis y une a los inmigrantes en un momento tenso

TROY C. HULL | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD

La recepción en las siete iglesias de la Diócesis de Charlotte que acogieron la Antorcha de Guadalupe fue más conmovedora este año, en un tiempo de turbulencia.

LISA M. GERACI | CATHOLIC NEWS HERALD; PROVIDED

En las parroquias de la Diócesis, la Antorcha de Guadalupe fue recibida con danzas que mezclaban la antigua cultura indígena azteca con el catolicismo. Niños y adultos llevaron vestimentas tradicionales para recibir la antorcha.

peregrinación de este año fue menos visible, con varias iglesias declinando participar, aún así atrajo grandes multitudes en parroquias pequeñas, en su mayoría en áreas menos pobladas.

La llama cruzó a Carolina del Norte desde Simpsonville, Carolina del Sur, una semana antes de que la Patrulla Fronteriza llegara a Charlotte para llevar a cabo la Operación Charlotte’s Web, deteniendo a inmigrantes que, según dijeron, habían cometido delitos. Se dirigió primero a St. Joseph en Newton, pasando por alto Asheville y Hendersonville, avanzando hacia Raleigh con paradas en otras seis iglesias de la Diócesis de Charlotte.

La peregrinación de 70 a 80 días comenzó el 30 de agosto cuando la antorcha salió de la Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Ciudad de México, y está programada para llegar a la Catedral de San Patricio en Manhattan el 12 de diciembre, la fiesta de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.

“Esta antorcha nos muestra que todos somos inmigrantes en nuestro camino hacia una vida mejor”, dijo Miguel Morales entre lágrimas en St. Joseph. “Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe siempre ha estado aquí con nosotros en este camino para inspirarnos… La antorcha que se nos entrega esta noche simboliza la manera en que transmitimos esta tradición a nuestros hijos. Sí,

las comunidades inmigrantes. El metal galvanizado del soporte que sostiene la antorcha se había vuelto más suave y brillante durante su travesía, producto de meses de intercambios llenos de emoción entre manos humanas. Finalmente, la llama visitará aproximadamente 100 parroquias católicas en nueve estados mexicanos y 14 estados de Estados Unidos.

La Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Charlotte, que ha recibido la antorcha durante las últimas dos décadas, decidió no hacerlo este año.

La comunidad normalmente reúne a cientos de personas para una procesión con la antorcha, pero eligió no atraer atención innecesaria hacia los feligreses hispanos —sin importar su estatus migratorio— en este tiempo de “tensión política”, dijeron los administradores.

St. Francis of Assisi decidió recibir de nuevo la antorcha este año pero reducir la celebración: “Es una cuestión de ser realistas… no es una cuestión de miedo”, dijo el padre Eric Kowalski, párroco. “Tenemos que ser prudentes, y eso es lo que hemos hecho, y estamos honrados y bendecidos de continuar esta cadena ininterrumpida de tradición por 23 años.”

LÁGRIMAS EN ST. JOSEPH

En Newton, los niños pisaban fuerte, tocaban tambores y sonajas por las calles, vistiendo túnicas y penachos aztecas tradicionales, para celebrar la llegada de la antorcha el 8 de noviembre.

A medida que la antorcha seguía a la multitud, las luces de las casas comenzaron a encenderse a lo largo del recorrido mientras los vecinos salían a mirar.

“El Espíritu Santo está en esa antorcha”, dijo Janet, una estadounidense de primera generación de origen mexicano. “Nuestra conexión del Espíritu Santo con la Virgen María y Jesucristo es lo que hace tan fuerte a la antorcha.”

sé que es más difícil este año, ¡pero seguimos aquí!”

UNA TRAVESÍA DE FE

La antorcha pasó por muchas manos en la Diócesis de Charlotte, viajando en camioneta por los pueblos desde Newton hasta Greensboro, deteniéndose en St. Joseph, St. Francis of Assisi, Divine Redeemer (Divino Redentor), Holy Infant (Santo Niño), Immaculate Heart of Mary, Our Lady of Highways (Nuestra Señora de los Caminos) y St. Mary en Greensboro.

Fue acompañada por imágenes de tamaño real de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe y de su primer devoto, San Juan Diego, dejando un rastro de fe y resiliencia entre

María Boveda dijo que la antorcha es “la manera en que Nuestra Señora dice: ‘Aquí estoy y soy tu madre. No tengas miedo.’”

Tomó un momento para sostener la antorcha, llorando y hallando consuelo en la idea de que las yemas de los dedos de su familia en México habían rozado el mismo símbolo de fe.

“Sé que algunos de mis familiares han tocado esto”, dijo. “He estado aquí 35 años sin regresar a México, sin haber podido abrazarlos, (así que) esto ayuda.”

Anthony Morales, un inmigrante mexicano, expresó tristeza por la tensión migratoria

ANTORCHA, PASA A LA PÁGINA 23

Relics of St. Anthony of Padua to visit diocese

TRISH M. STUKBAUER tmstukbauer@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — Two holy relics of St. Anthony of Padua will make a dozen stops across the Diocese of Charlotte from Dec. 5 to 14, and the faithful are encouraged to come out, pray and learn more about one of the most beloved Catholic saints.

The two first-class relics will be accompanied by Fathers Mario Conte and Fabio Turrisendo, Franciscan friars from the Pontifical Basilica of St. Anthony in Padua, Italy, where St. Anthony is buried. The relics are fragments of St. Anthony’s skin and his floating rib.

The latter relic is particularly significant because of who has venerated it: Fatima visionary Sister Lucy in her convent in Coimbra in 1995 and then-Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) in the Cathedral of Buenos Aires in 2000.

The relics were procured in 1981, the last time St. Anthony’s tomb was opened, Father Conte explained. He and the relics have been making stops around the world since 1995, the 800th anniversary of St. Anthony’s birth. Initially envisioned to be a one-year journey, requests continued to pour in long after the anniversary and have spurred visits to India, Singapore, Australia, England and the United States – and now to the Charlotte diocese.

The friars were invited to bring the relics here by a fellow Franciscan, Bishop Michael Martin. “We really wanted to go and see him, and he was so kind to invite us,” Father Conte said.

Wherever they visit, the relics draw crowds of people who feel a personal connection to the saint.

“People I meet across the world feel as if Anthony is a part of their family,” Father Conte said. “They can tell you concrete stories of how their mothers or grandmothers taught them his prayer and how they prayed to him when they were in danger, or when they lost something.”

Unlike visiting a museum, the faithful are encouraged by the friars to touch the relics in order to experience a physical connection to the saint. “It’s like meeting someone and giving your hand to them,” Father Conte explains. “This is an opportunity to meet the saint.” In addition, visitors can place prayer intentions in envelopes that the friars will take back to St. Anthony’s tomb. They also will have prayer cards available in several languages.

But most of all, the faithful will have the opportunity to be in the presence of a saint many feel is a friend, to thank him for his help in the past, and to ask for his guidance.

As Father Turrisendo explains, St. Anthony’s assistance doesn’t stop at recovering physical objects. “There are many things that we can lose, and really the most important one is faith,” he said, noting that prayers for the loss of health or a job are common. “Don’t be content only because you find a letter or the glasses … ask him to find the very important things.”

(Left) Franciscan Father Mario Conte prays at the tomb of St. Anthony in Padua, Italy, where he will take intentions from parishioners in the Diocese of Charlotte. (Above and below) People venerating the relics of St. Anthony that will visit the diocese are encouraged to touch them to feel closer to the saint many already know and love.

What are relics?

A relic is a physical object that had a direct association with a saint or with Jesus. First-class relics are the body or fragments of the body of a saint. While not essential to our faith, relics are venerated by Catholics as a way to honor the saint’s inspiring way of life and bold faith.

— Catholic News Agency

Who is St. Anthony of Padua?

Known as the patron saint of lost items, the future Doctor of the Church was born into a noble family on Aug. 15, 1195, in Lisbon, Portugal, and baptized Fernando. The philosophical youth joined the Augustinian order at 15 and was ordained a priest at 24.

His life took a dramatic turn in 1220, when the remains of five Franciscan missionaries tortured and killed in Morocco reached his monastery. The young priest was filled with zeal to convert souls and become a martyr. After the Franciscans promised to send him to Morocco, he received the Franciscan habit and took the name Anthony. He set out for Africa but became ill and had to return to Italy, reaching Assisi, where Francis had summoned all his friars, in 1221. Whether or not the two future saints met, the event confirmed Anthony’s decision to follow the Franciscan way.

At an ordination in 1222, Anthony was asked to deliver a short homily that his superiors had dodged. That unexpected moment revealed his gift for words. The fiery speaker was tapped to be an itinerant preacher, inspiring and correcting people confused by the heresies of the day. According to one story, he grew so

frustrated with those who refused to listen that he went to the river and preached to the fish instead.

The following year, Francis put Anthony in charge of theological training for friars in formation. At 32, Anthony was appointed superior of the Franciscan fraternities of northern Italy. He chose to reside in Padua, where he worked for the poor and against injustice.

There he preached a series of Lenten sermons in 1231 that drew crowds of 30,000. Exhausted by the effort and already ill, he retired to a small hut outside the city, where he had a vision of holding the Child Jesus – a moment often portrayed in his statues. He died soon after at age 36.

The following year, Pope Gregory IX declared him a saint.

So why do Catholics ask St. Anthony to find lost items? Tradition says Anthony had a book of psalms in which he kept his teaching notes. An unhappy novice left the community and took Anthony’s psalter with him. After Anthony prayed for its return, the novice was moved to return to the order and bring back the book.

— Trish Stukbauer, Vatican News, St. Anthony Shrine

Masses and Veneration

FRIDAY, DEC. 5

St. Eugene Church 72 Culvern St., Asheville www.steugene.org

Masses: Noon and 6:30 p.m. (Spanish)

SATURDAY, DEC. 6

St. Lawrence Basilica 97 Haywood St., Asheville www.saintlawrencebasilica.org

Mass: 11 a.m.

Veneration: Noon to 4 p.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 7

St. Matthew Church 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy., Charlotte www.stmatthewcatholic.org

Masses: 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

MONDAY, DEC. 8

St. Mark Church 14740 Stumptown Road, Huntersville www.stmarknc.org

Masses: Noon and 7 p.m. (Spanish)

TUESDAY, DEC. 9

Our Lady of Lourdes Church

725 Deese St., Monroe www.ourladymonroe.org

Masses: 12:15 p.m. and 7 p.m. (Bilingual)

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 10

Immaculate Conception Church

208 Seventh Ave., Hendersonville www.immaculateconceptionchurch.com

Masses: Noon and 6:30 p.m. (Spanish)

THURSDAY, DEC. 11

Our Lady of Mercy Church 1730 Link Road, Winston-Salem www.ourladyofmercync.org

Masses: Noon and 6:30 p.m. (Spanish)

FRIDAY, DEC. 12

Our Lady of Grace Church 2203 West Market St., Greensboro www.olgchurch.org

Mass: 12:15 p.m.

St. Joseph Vietnamese Church 4929 Sandy Porter Road, Charlotte Veneration: 4 p.m.

Mass: 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 13

Queen of the Apostles Church 503 North Main St., Belmont www.queenoftheapostles.org

Masses: 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. (Spanish)

SUNDAY, DEC. 14

St. Mary’s Church 812 Duke St., Greensboro www.stmarysgreensboro.org

Masses in parish center, veneration in original church all day

English: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m.

Spanish: 7 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 4:15 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.

Holy Family Vietnamese Community 4112 Romaine St., Greensboro www.stmarysgreensboro.org

Masses: Vietnamese: 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Veneration: One hour before and after Mass at each location except for other times as noted above.

Belmont Abbey College names retired general and Oblate as new president

BELMONT — Dr. Jeffrey W. Talley, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant general, has been appointed the 21st president of Belmont Abbey College, its Board of Trustees announced Nov. 18.

“I am thrilled to announce Gen. Talley as the next president of Belmont Abbey College,” said Charles Cornelio, chairman. “Jeff brings a vision and commitment that align deeply with the values and spirit of the Abbey.

“I am confident that under his leadership, Belmont Abbey will continue to flourish – academically, spiritually and as a community devoted to forming students in mind, body and soul. This is an exciting new chapter for the college as we look ahead to the next 150 years and beyond.”

Talley will assume the presidency on Jan. 2, 2026, and be formally inaugurated on Jan. 14. Following his inauguration, he will embark on a statewide and national tour to connect with alumni, donors and community partners.

The announcement comes after a sevenmonth search process that started when Dr. Bill Thierfelder’s retirement was announced following his service of 20 years as president. The college established a 12-member presidential search committee who worked in partnership with Russell Reynolds Associates.

Talley combines experience in the academic and business worlds with his decorated 34-year active and reserve

Distinguished Service Medals, and the Gold de Fleury Medal, which is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ highest individual honor. Talley has also been a Benedictine Oblate for nearly 40 years.

Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari, chancellor of Belmont Abbey College, noted, “The selection of Jeff as our next president affirms the college’s enduring commitment to its Benedictine mission – to educate students in the fullness of truth and to foster a community rooted in faith and learning.”

Talley said that aligns with his vision as incoming president for the Catholic liberal arts institution, which will mark the 150th anniversary of its founding next year.

“We have a unique opportunity to help young men and women get a rigorous academic experience in a faith-filled environment that’s strong in its Catholic identity, so they can go forth in a world that’s become so challenging, so complex, so difficult,” he said.

Talley holds a doctorate in civil and environmental engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, an executive MBA from the University of Oxford, and other graduate degrees in liberal arts, religious studies and applied sciences.

‘We have a unique opportunity to help young men and women get a rigorous academic experience in a faith-filled environment.’

Dr.

Jeffrey W. Talley

After retiring from the military in 2016, Talley served as a vice president and Global Fellow at IBM, and founded an advisory firm focused on public private partnerships called the P3i Group. Talley was born in St. Louis. He and his wife Linda recently relocated from Scottsdale, Arizona, to the Charlotte area. They have four children and 10 grandchildren.

— Catholic News Herald, Belmont Abbey College

military career, culminating in his appointment as the 32nd chief of Army Reserve and commanding general of the U.S. Army Reserve Command. He has received three Bronze Stars, two Army

Former Wake Forest University campus minister passes away

SYRACUSE, New York — Father Jude Thaddeus DeAngelo, OFM Conv., a Franciscan Friar of the Our Lady of the Angels Province, died Nov. 18, 2025, in Syracuse.

Visitation will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, at Assumption Church, 812 N. Salina St., Syracuse N.Y., with a Franciscan Wake Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will also take place on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. in the church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Assumption at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. Interment will follow in Assumption Cemetery in Syracuse. Born in Binghamton on Jan. 10, 1957, he was son of the late Anthony and Nancy (née Guerriero) DeAngelo.

After graduating from Catholic Center High School, he began formation with the Conventual Franciscans, entering the novitiate in 1976 and professing simple vows on Aug. 14, 1977. He then studied at St. Hyacinth College Seminary in Granby, Massachusetts, before making his solemn profession of vows on Aug. 10, 1980. After earning his M.Div. from St. Anthony-onHudson Seminary in Rensselaer, New York, he was ordained to the priesthood on May 26, 1984, in Albany.

Father Jude spent his first few months

of ministry at St. Peter Parish in Riverside, New Jersey, before becoming a teacher at the former McCorristin High School in Trenton, where he ministered until 1991. He returned to St. Peter’s in Riverside, where he served as pastor until 1994, when he was elected as vicar provincial and secretary of the former Immaculate Conception Province, residing in Rensselaer. After completing his term, Father Jude served for one year as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Seaside Heights, New Jersey.

In 1997, Father Jude commenced 25 years of service and sacrifice as a campus minister, first at Wake Forest University in WinstonSalem (1997-2010) and then at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. (2010-2022). His gentle compassion, tireless effort, quick wit and Franciscan witness helped evangelize and form two generations of young people in their journeys of faith. Father Jude spent his final years in Syracuse, serving as pastor of Assumption Parish. He is survived by his seven siblings: Nancy, Gregory, Elizabeth, Anthony, Ronald, Jan and Randy; as well as an abundance of devoted nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Franciscan Education Burse, 12300 Folly Quarter Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042.

The funeral Mass will be livestreamed on Facebook at http://facebook.com/ assumptionsyr and YouTube at http:// youtube.com/assumptionsyr.

He has taught, conducted research, and offered academic leadership at the University of Notre Dame, Southern Methodist University, Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University and the University of Southern California.

More online

At www.belmontabbeycollege.edu/president : Learn more about Belmont Abbey College’s new president.

you 70 ½ years or older?

An IRA rollover gift to your parish, the diocese, Catholic school, agency, or the Foundation provides meaningful support without impacting your checkbook, and can maximize your giving potential.

For more information, go to www.charlottediocese.givingplan.net or call Gina Rhodes at 704/370-3364. Foundation of the Diocese of Charlotte

Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir celebrates 45 years of praise

CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — In 1980, June Chavis Davenport, a member of Our Lady of Consolation Parish, talked to her pastor, Father Wilbur Thomas, about forming a gospel choir at the historically Black parish, and the Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir was born.

Decades of ministry through music at the parish as well as performances at other Charlotte churches followed. The choir traveled around the country to perform at gospel competitions and events. There were ups and downs in the parish and the choir, but the music continued.

On Nov. 16, people packed into the gymnasium at Our Lady of Consolation Church to honor the Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir’s 45th anniversary and witness a rousing performance from its 22 members.

Two other choirs – the Charlotte Interdenominational Mass Choir and St. Mark’s United Methodist Church Choir – came to pay tribute and perform.

The evening also included recitals by the parish’s Francophone Gospel and Cameroonian choirs, both formed through the parish’s growing Francophone ministry. Formed in 2023 and led by Father Yves Ilapi, the ministry serves Frenchspeaking Catholic immigrants from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Togo, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Senegal, Cameroon and Haiti.

The concert drew parishioners and fans from across the city.

Two of the choir’s original members were there, praising God through song as they’ve done for 45

years. For alto Pearline Reid and tenor Amanda Hines, the choir is not just a ministry but a family affair – Hines is Reid’s niece.

Reid grew up at the parish, attending kindergarten through eighth grade at Our Lady of Consolation School, which closed in 1988. Her siblings used to sing in the choir alongside her, and she remembers the days when the group had 50 members and traveled to sing in other cities.

“I’ve seen music in the Church

come a long way, from the days when we sang in Latin to the gospel music today,” Reid said. “We’ve always been the only Black Catholic gospel choir in Charlotte, and everybody loves the choir. It makes me so proud to be part of it.”

Singing has been part of Hines’ life since childhood. She joined the glee club at Our Lady of Consolation School when it was under the direction of the Oblate Sisters of Providence. Her mother, aunts and uncles all sang in the

parish choirs, but it was her mother who prodded her to join.

“Her name was Juanita McGowan, and she sang first soprano,” Hines said. “She used to have to drag me, and now here I am today – I’m her legacy. My aunts and uncles and my mom have all passed on, but I’m still here. I left the choir for a while, but when I came back it was more powerful –sometimes the Lord removes you from a place so you know what you have to do, and I knew I had to be

singing for the Lord.”

Hines remembers the first solo she did, for a song called “He Looked Beyond My Fault.” Since then she has come to regard her singing as a ministry.

“Once the Spirit takes me, I’m flying – when I know I have a solo, I fast and pray before because I want the Lord to use me for His glory. When I’m out there singing, it’s all about God.”

Erick Massey started playing the organ at Our Lady of Consolation in 1996 and became its music director in 2002. He said the Perpetual Hope choir occupies a special place in church music in the Charlotte area.

“It’s one of the few Black Catholic gospel choirs and the only one here,” he said. “I learn something from everybody who is in this choir – everybody has their own style.”

Throughout the concert, people in the audience stood to dance, clap along with the music, and lift their hands in prayer. During one song, Joyce Wilson of Charlotte reached into her purse, pulled out a tambourine decorated with an image of a dove, and began to play it joyfully in time with the music.

Wilson’s family has members who are both Catholic and Pentecostal, and her tambourine skills come from the Pentecostal tradition.

“I came out here tonight to support the choirs – we’re all one here with the music,” she said.

Enjoy the music

At www.catholicnewsherald.com : Watch a video highlight from the Perpetual Hope Gospel Choir’s Nov. 16 performance

Secular Franciscan retreat focuses on spiritual lessons of the

CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@rcdoc.org

CONCORD — More than 100 Secular Franciscans and others from the Carolinas gathered Nov. 8 to consider the role that Franciscan spirituality can play in today’s society.

The retreat was held at St. James the Greater Church in Concord, hosted by the St. Maximilian Kolbe Franciscan fraternity from Charlotte and the Fraternity of Brother Francis of Newton. Secular Franciscans from the St. Clare fraternity in Winston-Salem and St. Michael the Archangel in Spartanburg, South Carolina, also attended, along with parishioners from churches in the Charlotte region.

Capuchin Franciscan Father Remo DiSalvatore, OFM Cap., former pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Charlotte, led the retreat, focused on how the spiritual influence of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare can be lived out in today’s world. Attendees listened to talks, attended Mass, enjoyed fellowship over a shared meal, prayed together, went to confession and received prayers for healing. They learned about key elements of Secular Franciscan spirituality: living in a spirit of ongoing conversion and

saints

communion with the Trinitarian God, honoring the spirituality of family and marriage, being an active presence in the Church and the world, evangelical poverty, and living with hope and evangelical joy.

As Xiomara Palma, a Secular Franciscan from Newton, noted, “This retreat reminded us that the testament of St. Francis is to be humble and available to serve each other with love, and to embrace the poor.”

For professed Secular Franciscans, it was a chance to make and renew friendships and reaffirm their commitment to living out the order’s charism, said Jerome Wagner of the Charlotte fraternity.

The day offered an important perspective on the work Secular Franciscans can do in sharing the Gospel message in daily life.

“We are not cloistered,” Wagner said. “We do not live behind walls as monastics do. In our homes and families, neighborhood communities and in our businesses, we can demonstrate things like joy, hope and a reliance on Jesus.”

Learn more

At www.tinyurl.com/smkfraternity : Learn more about Secular Franciscans in the Charlotte area or email smkofs1989@gmail.com.

Holy Hour for Racial Healing offers prayer, reflection on tough questions

CHRISTINA LEE KNAUSS clknauss@rcdoc.org

CHARLOTTE — Politicians and activists call out racial issues in the United States all the time, but one important factor often gets lost in the noise – the importance of prayer by faithful people in the fight to overcome racism.

A Holy Hour for Racial Healing held Nov. 16 at St. Peter Church invited about 50 people in attendance to spend time in silent and communal prayer as they considered the impact of racism in our society.

It’s become an annual tradition at the parish in uptown during National Black Catholic History Month, fueled by an idea three years ago from a member of the parish’s Racial and Criminal Justice Priority Group, which organizes the event.

“As Catholics, we need to be talking about the tough stuff like racism, and we don’t do it often enough,” said Joanna Patcha, the group’s co-leader. “This is a chance for people to pray and think about what Jesus is calling us to do to address racism.”

The Holy Hour was led by Deacon Clarke Cochran, who spoke to the congregation before placing a monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament inside it on the altar.

“We’re here because of the divisions in our country, our society and in our Church,” Deacon Clarke said. “I remember when I was a toddler 70 years ago, a scholar called slavery and racism the original sin of the United States, and we’re here for a time together to pray for healing those types of divisions. It’s a time of great need for prayer and for healing in our society.”

He urged attendees to use the silent prayer time to reflect on two questions: Where is my part in racial healing? Where is our part in the Church for racial healing?

Students from the parish’s confirmation class offered readings from Scripture, including 1 John 4:11-12: “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also must love one another. No one has ever seen God. Yet, if we love one another, God remains in us, and His love is brought to perfection in us.”

The Gospel reading from Luke focused on Christ’s teaching that to have eternal life, people must love God and “love your neighbor as yourself,” as well as the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Another student read a reflection relating racism in today’s society to that parable.

“Consider the scenario we are witnessing today as racism persists in our communities

In honor of National Black Catholic History Month, St.

questions about where they see racism in their daily lives and how

and in our churches. Too many walk by the victims of racism without looking deeply at their wounds or the pain inflicted on them. … Jesus’ parable calls us to our obligations as Christians to be a good neighbor: the one who stops and helps the injured, the one who does not hesitate to accept the responsibility of healing.”

Rosheene Adams, director of the African American Affairs ministry for the Diocese of Charlotte, led the congregation through an examination of conscience focused on individual acts and attitudes toward race, with questions such as “Have I fully loved God and fully loved my neighbor as myself?”, “Is there a root of racism within me?” and “Have I caused pain to others by my actions or my words that offended my brother or my sister?”

Patcha said the Holy Hour offered a prayerful way for people to think about their response to an important question.

“We’re not pointing fingers at people,” she said. “Instead, this is a chance to pray and think about yourself. What are you doing and not doing when it comes to racial healing? It’s a chance for both prayer and accountability.”

Honoring veterans at St. Michael Parish

GASTONIA — St. Michael Church in Gastonia began Veterans Day with a special Mass honoring those who served. They were joined by St. Michael School students and veterans from many branches of the armed forces. Afterward, veterans and their families gathered for a pancake breakfast at the church, where they shared stories, laughter and gratitude.

His Excellenc y

Michael T Martin, OFM Conv Bishop of Charlotte

requests the honor of your presence at the

Liturgy of Ordination to the Diaconate

Mr Daniel Eduardo Chaves Peña

Mr Juan Gonz ález Hernández

Mr James Connor T weed of

Saturday, the 6th day of December Two thousand t went y-five at ten o’clock in the morning

Immacul ate Conception Catholic Church 208 7th Avenue West Hendersonville North Carolina

ROOM AT THE INN

Room At e Inn is a pro-life ministry of the Catholic Church serving single, pregnant women and single mothers with children om across North Carolina.

Licensed by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and accredited by the Council on Accreditation, Room At e Inn has provided safe housing to more than 750 women and their children—and services to thousands more— om the mountains to the coast.

Our Programs and the Four Pillars of Service

With decades of experience, we have learned that single mothers need comprehensive, compassionate care to build new lives of healthy, hope-filled independence. We call these our Four Pillars of Service:

1. Shelter and Housing

• Nussbaum Maternity Shelter – Residential maternity care for adult pregnant women from North Carolina, with or without previous children, during their pregnancies.

• Supported Community Living Services – Long-term residential programs at Amy’s House, Backyard Ministry, and Tabernacle Ministry for single mothers and their children completing college or job training programs.

• Coming Home Program – After childbirth and completion of their educational or vocational program, mothers receive continued case management and financial or material assistance to help them reunite with their families and reintegrate into their home communities.

2. Education and Job Training

• Volunteer Center – O ers certification programs, tutoring, life skills classes, mentoring, and career development for single mothers experiencing homelessness or poverty. On-site childcare is provided.

• College and Vocational Support – Mothers may attend any accredited college or job training program. We provide housing, case management, childcare, transportation, and financial or material assistance throughout their studies.

3. Childcare and Child Development

• On-site childcare and childcare scholarships are available as needed.

• Parenting education, along with baby and child supplies, are provided to support healthy family growth.

4. Transportation and Ongoing Support

• For mothers seeking transportation to maintain employment, we o er scholarships for driver education and licensing. With donor and partner support, we help employed graduates obtain reliable vehicles.

• Moms on a Mission – Our alumni network o ers ongoing community, material support, and quarterly gatherings to help mothers stay connected and continue to thrive.

When our work is built upon a foundation of hope, we make the Mercy of Jesus real and present to the families who need Him—and us—the most.

Breaking barriers, building futures! Our first class of single mothers has o cially graduated from the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program — opening doors to new careers in healthcare and new opportunities for their families. Congratulations, ladies — you did it!

We need your help to keep our doors open, food on our tables, and hope in their hearts. is Advent and Christmas, please join us by making a gift via the QR code at the bottom of the page, or the return envelope inserted in this edition of the Catholic News Herald.

DISCIPLE MAKER INDEX

Diocese-wide results of a 2025 survey of 24,332 Catholics from across western North Carolina about insights on faith and parish life.

Part 2: Spiritual Practices

Spiritual practices give people ways to grow closer to Christ

Asurvey of regular Massgoers in the Diocese of Charlotte shows – perhaps not surprisingly –that they participate often in parish activities and say they are growing in their faith.

That’s among the findings from the Disciple Maker Index (DMI) survey, conducted earlier this year at 78 of the diocese’s 93 parishes and missions. More than 24,300 people participated in the anonymous survey, providing a snapshot of the faith in western North Carolina. Overall, the diocese’s DMI results reflect a high degree of spiritual practices

among respondents. Most notably, 93% attend Mass at least weekly and 69% pray every day – two measures the Catholic Leadership Institute, the survey’s organizer, identified as among the diocese’s top “strengths.”

Furthermore, 46% of respondents said they participate in a Catholic devotion (such as praying the rosary) at least weekly, 36% said they attend a Bible study at least weekly, and 25% go to Eucharistic Adoration at least weekly.

Nearly half of respondents (48%) said their relationship with Jesus Christ is “the most important relationship in my life.”

And when asked to describe their pace of spiritual growth, 6% said they were “in a period of rapid spiritual growth,” and 38% said they were “growing at a steady,

continued pace.” Another 38% said they were growing in faith but “would like to grow more than I am.”

Yet the DMI also revealed a need for improvement: 62% said they have not gone to a retreat in the past year, and 45% haven’t attended a class or workshop about the Catholic faith.

For leaders at St. Peter Parish in Charlotte, that struck a chord. The Jesuit-run parish offers a wide array of workshops and retreats for its 2,500 registered families – from Scripture studies and book clubs to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius and the Examen Prayer, as well having as a team of 18 spiritual directors who provide one-on-one guidance.

Yet 67% of St. Peter respondents said they’ve never attended a retreat, and 49%

no class or workshop – not far off the diocesan averages (62% and 45%). DMI

Diocesan-wide responses on questions related to the faith practices of respondents, including the

Respondents: Which of the following best describes the pace of your spiritual growth?

PRACTICES

team members are seizing on that as an opportunity for the parish to help people grow spiritually.

plot, will be a catalyst of transformation – helping veterans discover the root cause of their homelessness, offering counseling and teaching ways to regain stability in a world that sometimes doesn’t make sense.

operating much like an assisted living home for elderly veterans.

of volunteers coming out and stepping up.”

The first phase of the community is nearly complete.

Each home will be painted with military colors to commemorate the six branches of service.

The finishing touch will be an Eagle Scout project of installing six flagpoles to proudly display the flags of each branch.

A veteran resource center, a renovated 1927 home that came with the donated

Allain Andry, a member of St. Peter’s DMI team and a spiritual director at the parish, said they are looking at ways to “move the needle,” especially among young adults and families with young children. That may mean scheduling more programs online or on nights and weekends to accommodate people’s work schedules, organizing “bite-sized” one-day retreats, or hosting more events with supper included or at a nearby brewpub, Andry said.

“We’re looking at how do we help more people participate beyond the Sunday Mass – how do we help them engage more, connect more with one another, and integrate with the parish?” he said.

The goal, Andry said, is to provide impactful programming that inspires people to live the Jesuit charism. “Our approach to ministry – at any level – is to be approachable, and to make the Gospel relevant, relatable and understandable.”

— Patricia L. Guilfoyle

COMING NEXT: CLI’s research says that how strongly someone practices their faith is often linked to what they think about the Sunday Mass at their parish. In Part 3, we’ll look at what DMI respondents had to say about their “Sunday experience.”

In the Diocese of Charlotte, there are 34 parishes, schools, ministries and organizations to support through www. igivecatholic.org this year, including:

Appalachian State Catholic Campus Ministry

Asheville Catholic School

Catherine’s House

Catholic Campus Ministry

Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte

Charlotte Catholic High School

Christ the King Catholic High School

Davidson College Catholic Campus Ministry

Healed and Restored Inc.

High Point University Catholic Campus

Ministry

Holy Angels

Holy Family Parish

Holy Trinity Middle School

The IHM Habitat for Humanity group spends some weekends constructing alongside Jones’ crew of former homeless residents who received carpentry training through the Tiny House Education program.

IHM is the only church thus far to sponsor within the community, but Valliere and Ditzel remain hopeful that others will get involved in the next phase of the project.

That will see two additional houses

Our Lady of Grace School

Our Lady of Lourdes Parish

Our Lady of Mercy School

Our Lady of the Assumption School

Sacred Heart School

St. Joseph College Seminary

St. Ann School

St. Elizabeth Parish

St. James Parish

St. Margaret Mary Catholic Parish

St. Mark School

St. Matthew School

St. Michael School

St. Pius X School

St. Thomas Aquinas Parish

Thea House Catholic Campus Ministry

UNC-Charlotte Catholic Campus Ministry

UNC-Greensboro Catholic Campus Ministry

Veterum Sapientia Institute

Wake Forest University Catholic Campus

Ministry

Western Carolina Catholic Campus Ministry

There are several other local Catholic-

As Valliere notes, “Jesus commands that you feed the hungry and you shelter the homeless. We hear the priests talk about it on Sunday. We read about it, we hope for it, and finally we have a chance to do something about it.

“It’s Jesus that drives me with this. It’s my faith. It’s my religion, and it’s a personal commitment of mine to care for our service members who have served and sacrificed so much for our freedoms and the American way of life.”

For more information on Tiny House Community Development, visit www. tinyhousesgreensboro.com.

related charitable efforts you can consider giving to this season, too.

One option is the Airport Chaplaincy at Charlotte/Douglas International Airport. While the chaplaincy is nondenominational in its mission to serve airport travelers and employees, deacons of the diocese are closely involved in its work. Chaplains provide support and assistance to thousands who travel and work at the airport. Consider donating to this ministry at www.cltairportchapel.org. Other alternatives to ‘give Catholic’ on Giving Tuesday include:

2025 Diocesan Support Appeal (DSA) Eucharistic Congress

Priests’ Retirement and Benefits Collection Seminarian Education

Find these and other links to donate at www.charlottediocese.org/giving.

— Kimberly Bender

Tres hombres serán ordenados diáconos en diciembre

TRISH STUKBAUER tmstukbauer@rcdoc.org

HENDERSONVILLE — Este diciembre, tres hombres serán ordenados diáconos mientras dan juntos este paso hacia el sacerdocio para la Diócesis de Charlotte. Daniel Eduardo Chaves Peña y Juan González Hernández, ambos de la parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción en Hendersonville, y el nativo de Hendersonville, James Connor Tweed, de St. John the Baptist en la cercana Tryon, serán ordenados a las órdenes sagradas el 6 de diciembre en la Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción en Hendersonville. La iglesia fue seleccionada porque tanto Chaves como González han servido allí en diversas capacidades durante los últimos dos años, y Tweed tiene profundos vínculos con el área, explicó el padre John Eckert, director de vocaciones de la diócesis.

El camino de González hacia el sacerdocio tuvo sus raíces en su Primera Comunión. Recibió el sacramento de su hermano durante su primera Misa como sacerdote. Debido

Las ciencias y el seminario

a esa experiencia, González comprende lo que significará ser sacerdote para aquellos que entren en contacto con él. “Soy consciente de que me convertiré en una representación de la Iglesia de Cristo”, dijo González. “Sí, es una gran responsabilidad, pero también soy consciente de que la gracia de Dios se hará cargo de mi papel.”

Tweed estaba en un camino muy diferente al principio de su vida. Soñaba con convertirse en arqueólogo o biólogo marino antes de verse atraído a estudiar medicina y luego descubrir su verdadera vocación durante un retiro en Atlanta. “Estaba completamente desprevenido; la idea ni siquiera había cruzado por mi mente”, recordó. “Casi antes de darme cuenta, me puse de pie. En ese momento, entendí con claridad y alegría que mi vida le pertenecía a Él.”

El camino de Chaves hacia el sacerdocio ha sido un hermoso proceso de aprendizaje.

“Muchos piensan que este proceso es decir ‘sí’ y ya, tarea terminada, pero eso no es verdad”, dijo. “Se trata de hacer crecer la fe de uno y de buscar a Dios en todo.”

Esta será la primera ordenación del padre Eckert como

El llamado de Dios puso a un corredor en otra pista

Cuando era joven, el seminarista James Tweed soñaba con descubrir las maravillas de la historia y estudiar la vida de los océanos del mundo. Mientras estaba en la escuela secundaria, quería ser arqueólogo y biólogo marino. Con el paso de los años, sus talentos lo llevaron a estudiar biología molecular, química y matemáticas. Trabajó en el Instituto de Neurociencias Max Planck y consideró estudiar medicina en la Universidad de Miami. Sin embargo, también se sentía llamado a algo más. Sintió el llamado al sacerdocio en la secundaria, pero siguió otros intereses. Luego, mientras asistía a un retiro de Steubenville en Atlanta, se hizo un llamado para que los hombres que estaban considerando el sacerdocio se pusieran de pie. De repente, todo se volvió claro. Aquellos otros caminos se desvanecieron y él emprendió el camino del Evangelio. Tweed está en su último año de estudios teológicos en The Athenaeum en Ohio y será ordenado al diaconado transitorio el 6 de diciembre en la iglesia Immaculate Conception en Hendersonville. Su formación previa ha sido útil durante su tiempo en el seminario. Este verano, sirvió como capellán interreligioso en el Centro de Trauma de Atrium Health en el Carolinas Medical Center.

¿Cómo ha sido su experiencia hasta ahora en el seminario? Maravillosamente liberadora. Lo que podría parecer restricciones se ha convertido en el marco mismo de mi crecimiento, permitiéndome avanzar en la vida intelectual, moral y espiritual más plenamente que en cualquier otro lugar. La mayor alegría ha sido los lazos de por vida que se han formado con mis hermanos, discerniendo el llamado del Señor junto a mí. Estas amistades, enraizadas en la oración, las luchas compartidas y el apoyo mutuo, son una fuente constante de alegría y fortaleza.

¿Algún consejo para hombres que estén considerando el sacerdocio? La alegría, la paz y el propósito que provienen de abrazar el plan de Dios para tu vida superan con creces cualquier apego terrenal. No tengas miedo de confiar en Él, incluso cuando el camino no esté claro. El llamado de Dios es un don.

¿Algún consejo para las familias o amigos de quienes están considerando vocaciones? Recen y escuchen. Alienten a su ser querido a dedicar tiempo a la oración y la reflexión. Creen un ambiente de apoyo donde puedan compartir sus pensamientos y luchas sin presión.

— Christina Lee Knass

Daniel Chaves pensó que tenía su vida completamente planificada. Una estrella del atletismo que vivía en Nueva Jersey, estaba cerca de alcanzar sus sueños como deportista, pero de repente su vida cambió. Dios tenía otros planes para él. Planes a los que eventualmente diría que sí. Originario de Bogotá, Colombia, Chaves se mudó a Nueva Jersey en 1993 a una edad temprana. A medida que él crecía, también crecía el llamado silencioso que Dios ponía en su corazón. Ingresó al seminario y completó sus estudios filosóficos en España en 2010. Su camino de formación lo llevó a misiones en Perú de 2016 a 2018, y luego a Roma, donde obtuvo su Bachillerato en Sagrada Teología en 2021. En 2023, Chaves se unió al programa de seminario de la Diócesis de Charlotte y está sirviendo a la comunidad de la parroquia Immaculate Conception en Hendersonville mientras espera recibir las Órdenes Sagradas.

¿Cuándo sintió vez el llamado al sacerdocio?

Cuando llegué a lo que iba a ser mi último año de secundaria, corría campo a través y me estaba yendo bastante bien. Tenía muchas ofertas de becas de universidades aquí en Estados Unidos, y en la carrera final del campeonato estatal en Nueva Jersey, colapsé justo antes de llegar a la meta. Me llevaron de urgencia a la sala de emergencias y me dijeron que era por mis niveles de azúcar, que estaban extremadamente bajos. Eso dio inicio a una crisis no solo de salud, sino espiritual. Y no mejoraba. Tenía recaídas, así que se tomó la decisión de que regresara a Colombia con mi mamá. Fue durante esa crisis que tuve que enfrentar la realidad. Porque todos pensaban que mi futuro era muy prometedor, y de repente me di cuenta de que la vida se acaba y que las cosas no son solo diversión o pasar el tiempo. Te enfrentas a la realidad y surge la pregunta. Y como dije, no fue solo “cambia tu vida” sino “entrégate a Mí.” Pero ese fue un primer llamado vago que no comprendí plenamente hasta mucho después.

¿Cómo ha sido la relación con su familia respecto a su decisión de seguir el sacerdocio? Mi papá siempre me apoyó y me dijo: “Si eso es lo que crees que Dios te pide, adelante.” Mi mamá tuvo un momento más difícil porque las mamás son mamás, y yo soy su único hijo, su único varón. Ese vínculo es especial y no es fácil; lo entiendo. Ella no se opuso directamente, pero se notaba que al principio no compartía ese ideal. Pero hermosamente, con el tiempo, ahora es una católica ejemplar. No podría pedir más.

— Brian Segovia

director de vocaciones.“Estoy agradecido y honrado de que el obispo Martín me haya pedido asumir este cargo”, dijo. “Poder estar allí en su nombre de una manera tan especial y hacerlo en diciembre es como un regalo de Navidad anticipado para todos nosotros.”

Después de su ordenación, estos tres hombres serán considerados diáconos “transitorios”, en comparación con los diáconos “permanentes”. Los diáconos transitorios generalmente sirven un año en preparación pastoral, litúrgica y educativa antes de ser considerados para la ordenación sacerdotal en mayo de 2026. Los diáconos permanentes pueden estar casados y no continúan hacia la ordenación sacerdotal. Todos están invitados a asistir a la Misa de las 10 a.m. el sábado 6 de diciembre en la Iglesia Católica de la Inmaculada Concepción, ubicada en 208 7th Avenue en Hendersonville. catholicnewsherald.com

Más online

At www.catholicnewsherald.com : Lee más sobre nuestros seminaristas

Siguiendo una tradición familiar de servicio

Para algunos, servir al Reino de Dios como sacerdote es una vocación intimidante, pero Juan González Hernández supo desde los seis años que Dios tenía planes para él. La profunda educación católica de Hernández en la Ciudad de México lo llevó a descubrir su vocación de una de las maneras más conmovedoras posibles: presenciar la ordenación sacerdotal de su hermano y recibir de él su primera comunión durante su primera Misa.

Nacido el 1 de octubre de 1990 en Tapalapa, Chiapas, Hernández creció en una familia llena de fe donde el servicio a la Iglesia era una parte natural de la vida, con hermanos que llegaron a ser sacerdotes, religiosas y educadores. Su temprana llamada lo llevó a la formación en España en 2007, seguida por el ministerio en Perú y estudios teológicos avanzados en Roma, donde completó maestrías en filosofía y teología moral en 2021. Atraído a servir a la comunidad católica hispana, Hernández está asignado a Immaculate Conception en Hendersonville y vive en el Seminario St. Joseph College. Al elegir al diácono Bryan Ilagor para revestirlo en su ordenación diaconal, Hernández continúa preparándose para el sacerdocio mientras disfruta de la música, la literatura y las caminatas, profundizando su compromiso con una vida de servicio en Cristo.

¿Cuándo sintió por primera vez el llamado al sacerdocio?

Fue el día en que mi hermano fue ordenado sacerdote en 1997, cuando yo estaba a punto de cumplir 7 años. Ese día, se encendió una luz dentro de mí y me pregunté: “¿Y si yo también me convierto en sacerdote algún día, como mi hermano?”

¿Qué experiencia lo llevó a ingresar al seminario?

A los 12 años tuve una experiencia vocacional que fue algo así como una experiencia preseminarial. Estuve allí unos dos años con otros muchachos que sentían un llamado similar al mío; luego, antes de la universidad, hice otro retiro vocacional en la Ciudad de México. Recibí una invitación formal al seminario y, después de hablar con mi padre, quien no se opuso, decidí que debía ingresar. ¿Cómo fue continuar sus estudios yéndose a España? Mi hermano, sacerdote, y dos de mis hermanas, que eran monjas de clausura, vivían allí. Mi hermano estudió en España mientras estaba en el seminario y mis hermanas también formaban parte del instituto Obra de Amor. — Brian Segovia

Los obispos de EE.UU. denuncian la difamación de los inmigrantes

El obispo de Charlotte brinda “firme apoyo” a la declaración pastoral y añade un mensaje especial a los fieles del oeste

BALTIMORE — Pocos días antes de que comenzara una ofensiva federal de inmigración en Charlotte, los obispos católicos de los Estados Unidos aprobaron un “mensaje pastoral especial sobre la inmigración” que el papa León XIV instó a los católicos estadounidenses a atender el 18 de noviembre. La declaración expresa preocupación por los inmigrantes y consternación por las políticas de aplicación de la ley de inmigración que no respetan la dignidad humana básica.

La declaración de los obispos estadounidenses (publicada íntegramente a continuación), emitida el 12 de noviembre durante la reunión anual de otoño de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos (USCCB) en Baltimore, se produjo cuando un número creciente de obispos ha reconocido que algunas de las políticas migratorias de la administración Trump corren el riesgo de presentar a la Iglesia desafíos prácticos en la prestación de apoyo pastoral y obras de caridad, así como desafíos a la libertad religiosa.

El obispo de Charlotte Michael Martin apoyó el mensaje de los obispos estadounidenses, expresó solidaridad con los inmigrantes y exhortó al pueblo de la Diócesis de Charlotte a reflexionar sobre su perspectiva acerca de la inmigración a la luz de la enseñanza de la Iglesia.

“Pregúntense si sus opiniones políticas están formando sus creencias religiosas o si son sus creencias religiosas las que están formando sus opiniones políticas”, dijo el obispo. “Jesús nos llama a lo segundo.”

El papa León XIV también abordó el tema fuera de la villa papal de Castel Gandolfo antes de regresar a Roma.

“Nadie ha dicho que los Estados Unidos deban tener fronteras abiertas”, afirmó. “Creo que cada país tiene derecho a determinar quién, cómo y cuándo entra la gente.

“Pero cuando las personas están llevando buenas vidas, y muchas de ellas desde hace 10, 15, 20 años, tratarlas de una manera sumamente irrespetuosa, por decir lo menos –y ha habido algo de violencia, desafortunadamente–, creo que los obispos han sido muy claros en lo que dijeron. Creo que simplemente invitaría a todas las personas en los Estados Unidos a escucharlos.”

El “mensaje pastoral especial” de los obispos de EE.UU., difundido la tarde del miércoles, afirmó: “Como pastores, nosotros, los obispos de los Estados Unidos, estamos unidos a nuestro pueblo por lazos de comunión y compasión en Nuestro Señor Jesucristo.”

“Nos preocupa cuando vemos entre nuestro pueblo un clima de miedo y ansiedad en torno a cuestiones de perfil racial y aplicación de la ley migratoria”, señaló. “Nos entristece el estado del debate contemporáneo y la difamación

de los inmigrantes. Nos preocupan las condiciones en los centros de detención y la falta de acceso a atención pastoral. Lamentamos que algunos inmigrantes en Estados Unidos hayan perdido arbitrariamente su estatus legal.

“Nos inquietan las amenazas contra la santidad de los lugares de culto y la naturaleza especial de los hospitales y las escuelas”, continuó. “Nos aflige cuando encontramos a padres que temen ser detenidos al llevar a sus hijos a la escuela y cuando tratamos de consolar a familiares que ya han sido separados de sus seres queridos. A pesar de los obstáculos y prejuicios, generaciones de inmigrantes han hecho contribuciones enormes al bienestar de nuestra nación.

“Como obispos católicos, amamos a nuestro país y oramos por su paz y prosperidad. Precisamente por ello, en este momento nos sentimos impulsados a alzar nuestras voces en defensa de la dignidad humana.”

Equilibrando la doctrina social católica: derecho a migrar, derecho a regular fronteras, deber de justicia y misericordia

La declaración también se refiere a la doctrina social de la Iglesia sobre inmigración, que busca equilibrar tres principios interrelacionados: el derecho de las personas a migrar para sostenerse a sí mismas y a sus familias; el derecho de un país a regular sus fronteras e inmigración; y el deber de una nación de ejercer esa regulación con justicia y misericordia.

La enseñanza católica “exhorta a las naciones a reconocer la dignidad fundamental de todas las personas, incluidos los inmigrantes”, dijo la declaración. “Los obispos abogamos por una reforma significativa de las leyes y procedimientos migratorios de nuestra nación. La dignidad humana y la seguridad nacional no están en conflicto. “Ambas son posibles si las personas de buena voluntad trabajan juntas.

Reconocemos que las naciones tienen la responsabilidad de regular sus fronteras y establecer un sistema migratorio justo y ordenado en beneficio del bien común. Sin tales procesos, los inmigrantes enfrentan riesgos de trata y otras formas de explotación. Vías seguras y legales sirven como antídoto ante tales riesgos.”

La enseñanza de la Iglesia, señaló, “se fundamenta en la preocupación primordial por la persona humana, creada a imagen y semejanza de Dios (Génesis 1:27).”

OBISPOS APRUEBAN LA DECLARACIÓN

El mensaje fue aprobado por la gran mayoría de los obispos votantes y recibió una ovación de pie. El arzobispo Paul S. Coakley de Oklahoma City, recién elegido presidente de la USCCB, habló a favor de la declaración, diciendo: “La apoyo firmemente por el bien de nuestros hermanos y hermanas inmigrantes”, añadiendo que la declaración buscaba “equilibrio” al “proteger los derechos de los inmigrantes, pero también al pedir a nuestros legisladores y a nuestra administración que nos ofrezcan un camino significativo de reforma de nuestro sistema migratorio.”

Según un comunicado de la USCCB emitido con el texto de la declaración, esta fue “la primera vez” en 12 años que la conferencia de obispos “invocó esta forma particularmente urgente de hablar como cuerpo episcopal. La última, emitida en 2013, fue en respuesta al mandato federal de anticoncepción.”

OBISPOS DE EE.UU. RESPONDEN

El arzobispo Richard G. Henning de Boston dijo a OSV News en una entrevista que la sensación de que “tenemos que decir algo” sobre mostrar

solidaridad con los inmigrantes había estado “brotando entre los obispos.”

“Obviamente, las creencias de la Iglesia tienen consecuencias políticas, pero no son políticas en el sentido habitual de la palabra”, dijo. “Por eso hubo un verdadero esfuerzo por asegurarse de que este fuera un discurso pastoral a nuestro pueblo y no un intento de influir políticamente.”

A pesar de diferencias de edad, geografía u otros puntos de vista, el arzobispo Henning dijo que los obispos estadounidenses casi universalmente han escuchado de parte de feligreses o pastores sobre “el sufrimiento” causado por la situación.

“Somos pastores”, dijo. “Nos importa la gente a la que servimos, y lo que escuchamos de ellos es miedo y sufrimiento. Así que es difícil no querer responder.”

Cuando los obispos finalmente aprobaron el lenguaje tras algún debate, el arzobispo Henning bromeó: “La enmienda enmendada queda aprobada.”

En su entrevista con OSV News después de la votación, el arzobispo Henning dijo: “No es fácil lograr que todos avancemos exactamente en la misma dirección”. Pero afirmó que el apoyo abrumador al mensaje mostró “una unidad fundamental entre nosotros.”

“Creo que hubo un sentido bastante poderoso entre todos los obispos de que lo que estamos experimentando en nuestras diócesis es que hay mucho sufrimiento y confusión, y yo diría incluso caos”, dijo. “Hay una especie de arbitrariedad ahora, en la experiencia de la gente, que genera un miedo bastante significativo.”

— OSV News

Más online At www.catholicnewsherald.com : El texto completo del Mensaje Pastoral Especial de los obispos de EE.UU. sigue a continuación

DISCIPLE MAKER INDEX

Resultados diocesanos de una encuesta de 2025 realizada entre 24,332 católicos, con información sobre su fe y su vida parroquial.

Parte 2: Prácticas espirituales

UnaINTRO: La Visión General Nov. 7, 2025

PARTE 1: Enseñanza central católica Nov. 7, 2025

PARTE 2: Prácticas espirituales Nov. 21, 2025

PARTE 3: Experiencia dominical Dec. 5, 2025

PARTE 4: Eficacia parroquial Dec. 19, 2025

PARTE 5: Eficacia parroquial (cont.) Jan. 9, 2026

PARTE 6: Impulso misionero Jan. 23, 2026

Las prácticas espirituales acercan a las personas a Cristo

encuesta de católicos que asisten regularmente a Misa en la Diócesis de Charlotte muestra – quizá no sorprendentemente – que participan con frecuencia en actividades parroquiales y dicen estar creciendo en su fe.

Esa es una de las conclusiones de la encuesta Disciple Maker Index (DMI), realizada a principios de este año en 78 de las 93 parroquias y misiones de la diócesis. Más de 24,300 personas participaron en esta encuesta anónima, lo que ofrece una instantánea de la fe en el oeste de Carolina

del Norte.

En general, los resultados de la DMI en la diócesis reflejan un alto grado de prácticas espirituales entre los encuestados. En particular, el 93% asiste a Misa al menos una vez por semana y el 69% reza todos los días – dos indicadores que el Catholic Leadership Institute, organizador de la encuesta, identificó como algunas de las principales “fortalezas” de la diócesis.

Además, el 46% de los encuestados dijo que participa en alguna devoción católica (como rezar el Rosario) al menos semanalmente, el 36% dijo que asiste a un estudio bíblico al menos una vez por semana, y el 25% va a la Adoración Eucarística al menos semanalmente.

Casi la mitad de los encuestados (48%) dijo que su relación con Jesucristo es “la

relación más importante de mi vida”.

Y cuando se les pidió describir su ritmo de crecimiento espiritual, un 6% dijo estar “en un período de rápido crecimiento espiritual”, y un 38% dijo estar “creciendo a un ritmo constante y continuo”. Otro 38% dijo que estaba creciendo en la fe, pero que “le gustaría crecer más de lo que está creciendo ahora”.

Sin embargo, la DMI también reveló áreas de mejora: el 62% dijo que no ha asistido a un retiro en el último año, y el 45% no ha asistido a una clase o taller sobre la fe católica.

Para los líderes de la Parroquia St. Peter en Charlotte, eso fue revelador. La parroquia, dirigida por jesuitas, ofrece una gran variedad de talleres y retiros para sus 2,500 familias registradas – desde estudios bíblicos y clubes de lectura

hasta los Ejercicios Espirituales de San Ignacio y la Oración del Examen, además de contar con un equipo de 18 directores espirituales que brindan acompañamiento individual.

Aun así, el 67% de los encuestados de St. Peter dijo que nunca ha asistido a un retiro, y el 49% a ninguna clase o taller – cifras no tan distintas de los promedios diocesanos (62% y 45%). Los miembros del equipo de la DMI están aprovechando esa información como una oportunidad para que la Andry

Respuestas diocesanas a las preguntas relacionadas con las prácticas de fe de los encuestados, incluyendo

Asistió a Misa:

Participó en un estudio bíblico o grupo de oración:

Participó en un retiro:

Participó en una devoción católica (rosario, novena, fiestas, etc.):

Participó en la Adoración Eucarística:

Encuestados: ¿Cuál de las siguientes opciones describe mejor en qué punto estás en tu camino como católico?

Encuestados: ¿Cuál de las siguientes opciones describe mejor el ritmo de tu crecimiento espiritual? Mi relación con Jesucristo es la relación más importante de mi vida

un período de rápido crecimiento espiritual

Practico mi fe católica, pero no conozco a Jesús personalmente como a un amigo

Me considero católico, aunque la fe no es una parte importante de mi vida

Turn your unused car, truck, boat, RV, or motorcycle into a force for good. Donate it to Catholic Charities and help fund programs for those in need. And receive a tax benefit!

All vehicle makes and models are accepted.

ESPIRITUALES

VIENE DE LA PÁGINA 20

parroquia ayude a las personas a crecer espiritualmente.

Allain Andry, miembro del equipo de la DMI y director espiritual en la parroquia, dijo que están buscando maneras de “mover la aguja”, especialmente entre los adultos jóvenes y las familias con niños pequeños. Eso podría significar programar más actividades en línea o en las noches y fines de semana para adaptarse a los horarios laborales, organizar retiros breves de un solo día, o realizar más eventos que incluyan cena o se lleven a cabo en una cervecería cercana, señaló Andry.

“Estamos viendo cómo podemos ayudar a que más personas participen más allá de la Misa dominical – cómo ayudarlas a involucrarse más, a conectarse entre sí y a integrarse en la parroquia”, dijo.

El objetivo, añadió Andry, es ofrecer programación significativa que inspire a las personas a vivir el carisma jesuita.

NOTA DEL EDITOR: La encuesta Disciple Maker Index, realizada entre marzo y abril de 2025 en las 93 parroquias y misiones de la Diócesis de Charlotte, recibió respuestas de 24,332 personas en 78 parroquias y misiones. Aunque no se trata de una muestra aleatoria ni representativa de todos los católicos de la diócesis, los resultados reflejan en gran medida las opiniones de los católicos activos que asisten regularmente a Misa y eligieron participar en las 75 preguntas de la encuesta. Los datos fueron tabulados por el Catholic Leadership Institute

“Nuestro enfoque del ministerio – en cualquier nivel – es ser accesibles, y hacer que el Evangelio sea relevante, comprensible y aplicable.”

— Patricia L. Guilfoyle

PRÓXIMO: La investigación de CLI muestra que cuán intensamente alguien vive su fe está a menudo relacionado con lo que piensa sobre la Misa dominical en su parroquia. En la Parte 3, veremos lo que los encuestados de la DMI dijeron sobre su “experiencia dominical.”

FE FAMILIA FRATERNIDAD

Caballeros de Colón

Considere unirse a los más de 2 millones de miembros de la organización fraternal católica más grande del mundo y registrándose en línea hoy en: www.kofc.org/joinus/es

Por tiempo limitado - Membresía en línea GRATISUse el código de promoción (BLESSEDMCGIVNEY)

At Pennybyrn’s Melvin and Ruth Witcher Adult Day Center, every detail is designed to enrich the lives of older adults while o ering support and respite for their caregivers. Our safe, welcoming and vibrant environment o ers more than just care— it inspires joy, sparks learning and builds meaningful social connections. A thoughtfully planned variety of daily activities promotes better overall health, greater emotional well-being and a higher quality of life.

TORCH

FROM PAGE 8

the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City and is scheduled to reach St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan on Dec. 12, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

“This torch shows us we are all immigrants on our journey for a better life,” Miguel Morales said in tears at St. Joseph Church. “Our Lady of Guadalupe has always been here on this journey with us to inspire us…The torch handed to us tonight resembles the way we hand this tradition down to our children. Yes, I know it’s more difficult this year, but we are still here!”

TREK OF FAITH

The torch exchanged many hands in the Charlotte diocese, traveling by pickup truck through towns from Newton to Greensboro, stopping at St. Joseph, St. Francis of Assisi, Divine Redeemer, Holy Infant, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Our Lady of the Highways, and St. Mary’s in Greensboro.

It was accompanied by life-sized icons of Our Lady of Guadalupe and her first devotee, St. Juan Diego, blazing a trail of faith and resilience among immigrant communities.

The galvanized metal of the sconce that holds the torch had grown smoother and shinier during its trek from months of heartfelt exchanges among human hands. The flame ultimately will visit about 100 Catholic parishes through nine Mexican states and 14 U.S. states.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Charlotte, which has welcomed the torch for the past two decades, decided against receiving it this year.

The community typically turns out hundreds of people for a torch procession but chose not to focus unnecessary attention on Hispanic parishioners – regardless of their

ACTIVIDADES

instó a todos a considerar sus puntos de vista sobre la inmigración a través del lente de la enseñanza de la Iglesia.

“Pregúntense si sus puntos de vista políticos están formando sus creencias religiosas o si sus creencias religiosas están formando sus puntos de vista políticos”, dijo. “Jesús nos llama a lo segundo”.

El martes, en respuesta a la operación federal de inmigración en Charlotte, el obispo Martin fue más allá: compartió un mensaje especial dirigido al pueblo de la Diócesis de Charlotte, llamándolos a orar,

PARISHES

of Charlotte, calling on them to pray, fast, reach out to those living in fear, and contact their elected representatives. He repeated that message Wednesday morning during a WBT Radio interview, moments after greeting Pope Leo XIV during his general audience in Rome. Bishop Martin said he thanked the pope for his support of the U.S. bishops’ message.

Like others, the pope recognizes “the sad reality” of the lack of immigration reform, Bishop Martin said.

“No one wants what’s going on right now,” he said. “We’re better than this. We

immigration status – during this time of “political tension,” administrators said.

St. Francis of Assisi decided to host the torch again this year but dialed back the celebration: “It’s a question of being realistic…It’s not a question of fear,” said Father Eric Kowalski, pastor. “We have to be prudent, and that’s what we have done, and we are honored and blessed to have and continue this unbroken chain of tradition for 23 years.”

TEARS AT ST. JOSEPH

In Newton, children stomped, drummed and rattled their way through the streets, wearing traditional Aztec tunics and headdresses, to celebrate the torch’s arrival Nov. 8.

As the torch followed the crowd, porch lights began to shine along the procession route as townspeople came out to watch.

“The Holy Spirit is in that torch,” said a first-generation Mexican American named Janet. “Our Holy Spirit connection to the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ is what is making the torch so strong.”

Maria Boveda said the torch is “Our Lady’s way of saying, ‘I am here and I’m your mother. Don’t be afraid.’”

She took a moment to hold the torch, weeping and finding solace in the idea that the fingertips of her family in Mexico grazed the same symbol of faith.

“I know that some of my family has touched this,” she said. “I have been here for 35 years without going back to Mexico, without having been able to hold them, (so) this helps.”

Anthony Morales, a Mexican immigrant, expressed sadness over recent immigration tension.

“I prayed…we were going to offer this for all the immigrants who live in fear,” he said. “We migrated here from Mexico out of nothing. Our house was made out of rocks. There are a lot of innocent people getting picked up and taken away, and it’s so sad. For a while, we were just hearing it on the news, but now it’s starting to get closer to home.”

ayunar, acercarse a quienes viven con miedo y contactar a sus representantes electos.

Repitió ese mensaje el miércoles por la mañana durante una entrevista en WBT Radio, momentos después de saludar al papa León XIV durante la audiencia general en Roma. El obispo Martin dijo que agradeció al papa por su apoyo al mensaje de los obispos estadounidenses.

Al igual que otros, el papa reconoce “la triste realidad” de la falta de una reforma migratoria, dijo el obispo Martin.

“Nadie quiere lo que está ocurriendo ahora”, dijo. “Somos mejores que esto.

Todos podemos encontrar una manera de resolver esta dinámica migratoria de una forma que sirva a todos”.

“Si lo único que hacemos es enfocarnos

can all figure this immigration dynamic out in a way that serves everyone.”

“If all we do is focus on this moment of enforcement, we will miss the moment,” he said. “We should really be talking about the broader issue of immigration reform.”

Regarding the Border Patrol’s activity in Charlotte, Bishop Martin said, “I see through the lens of Jesus ... How would Jesus be calling me to value the human dignity of the person that’s in front of me, regardless of their citizenship status?

“That to me, I think, is what all people ought to do, understanding that we live in a society where there are laws that need to be followed and processes that need to be carried out. At the same time, I think the fear that has that is being created in carrying out these policies has some very dramatic and problematic results.”

FINDING HEALING AND MEANING

More than 1,000 people welcomed the torch at St. Francis of Assisi in Mocksville Nov. 9, continuing the tradition that began in 2002. Vibrant Aztec attire and dance were also a part of this celebration.

“All of these dances being performed have meaning,” said Jesús Torres, who has been serving at the parish for over a decade. “It is a way to honor (Mary) and to connect the indigenous past with the Catholic faith.”

One family drove more than four hours from South Carolina to be in the presence of the torch.

“When we saw the posting of the torch coming through this parish, we felt a call to be here, and without doubt, we dropped everything and traveled to see Our Lady’s torch,” said Jose Luis Cervin. “She is a miracle and has always been there for us.”

The Perez family drove over from Lincolnton, desperate to hold the torch. They hoped to gain peace after the recent loss of their 14-year-old son to leukemia.

“We haven’t been to Mass in months due to our anger with God,” the boy’s mother Andrea Moreno said, weeping after holding the torch. “But Our Lady of Guadalupe gives us hope as we search for answers amidst this pain.”

SUFFERING AND ENDURANCE

In High Point, Father O’Connor was pleased his parishioners at Immaculate Heart of Mary were able to experience the torch moment.

“They were waiting for their turn. It was so important for them to all be able to get up there and see it and touch it,” he said. “Everybody wanted to be near it.”

“Our Lady,” he said, “is all about accompanying us in our suffering and giving us strength to endure, bringing us to an awareness of her Son’s love. They need her right now.”

en este momento de aplicación de la ley, perderemos de vista lo importante”, dijo. “Deberíamos estar hablando del asunto más amplio de la reforma migratoria”.

Con respecto a la actividad de la Patrulla Fronteriza en Charlotte, el obispo Martin dijo: “Veo a través del lente de Jesús… ¿Cómo me estaría llamando Jesús a valorar la dignidad humana de la persona que tengo frente a mí, sin importar su estatus migratorio?

“Eso, creo yo, es lo que todos deberían hacer, entendiendo que vivimos en una sociedad donde hay leyes que deben cumplirse y procesos que deben llevarse a cabo. Al mismo tiempo, creo que el miedo que se está generando al aplicar estas políticas está provocando resultados muy drásticos y problemáticos”.

ANTORCHA

reciente.

“Recé… íbamos a ofrecer esto por todos los inmigrantes que viven con miedo”, dijo Morales. “Migramos aquí desde México sin nada. Nuestra casa estaba hecha de piedras. Hay mucha gente inocente que están recogiendo y llevando, y es tan triste. Por un tiempo sólo lo escuchábamos en las noticias, pero ahora está empezando a acercarse más a casa.”

ENCONTRANDO SANACIÓN Y SIGNIFICADO

Más de 1,000 personas recibieron la antorcha en St. Francis of Assisi en Mocksville el 9 de noviembre, continuando la tradición que comenzó en 2002. La vestimenta y las danzas aztecas vibrantes también formaron parte de esta celebración.

“Todas estas danzas que se realizan tienen significado”, dijo Jesús Torres, quien ha servido en la parroquia por más de una década. “Es una manera de honrarla (a María) y de conectar el pasado indígena con la fe católica.”

Una familia condujo más de cuatro horas desde Carolina del Sur para estar en presencia de la antorcha.

“Cuando vimos el anuncio de que la antorcha pasaría por esta parroquia, sentimos un llamado a estar aquí, y sin dudarlo, dejamos todo y viajamos para ver la antorcha de Nuestra Señora”, dijo José Luis Cervin. “Ella es un milagro y siempre ha estado ahí para nosotros.”

La familia Pérez condujo desde Lincolnton, desesperada por sostener la antorcha. Esperaban encontrar paz tras la reciente pérdida de su hijo de 14 años a causa de la leucemia.

“No hemos ido a Misa en meses debido a nuestro enojo con Dios”, dijo la madre del niño, Andrea Moreno, llorando después de sostener la antorcha.

“Pero Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe nos da esperanza mientras buscamos respuestas en medio de este dolor.”

SUFRIMIENTO Y RESISTENCIA

En High Point, el padre O’Connor se alegró de que sus feligreses en Immaculate Heart of Mary pudieran vivir el momento de la antorcha.

“Estaban esperando su turno. Era tan importante para ellos poder acercarse y verla y tocarla”, dijo. “Todos querían estar cerca de ella.”

“Nuestra Señora”, dijo, “se trata de acompañarnos en nuestro sufrimiento y darnos fuerza para resistir, llevándonos a reconocer el amor de su Hijo. La necesitan ahora.”

Faith guides your life, why not your financial decisions?

For over 140 years, the Knights of Columbus has been committed to helping families plan their nancial future and achieve economic security, a tradition carried on today through its insurance products.

Book a complimentary financial needs analysis today.

Our nation

U.S. bishops denounce vilification of immigrants

Pope calls treatment of migrants in United States ‘extremely disrespectful’

BALTIMORE — Just days before a federal immigration crackdown began in Charlotte, the Catholic bishops of the United States approved a “special pastoral message on immigration” that Pope Leo XIV urged U.S. Catholics to heed on Nov. 18. The statement voices concern for immigrants and dismay for immigration enforcement policies that disregard basic human dignity.

The statement issued Nov. 12 during the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ annual fall meeting in Baltimore came as a growing number of bishops have acknowledged that some of the Trump administration’s immigration policies risk presenting the Church with both practical challenges in administering pastoral support and charitable endeavors, as well as religious liberty challenges.

Charlotte Bishop Michael Martin supported the U.S. bishops’ message. He expressed solidarity with immigrants and challenged the people of the Diocese of Charlotte to think about their perspective on immigration in light of Church teaching.

“Ask yourself if your political views are forming your religious beliefs or if your religious beliefs are forming your political views,” Bishop Martin said. “Jesus calls us to the latter.”

Pope Leo XIV also addressed the issue outside the papal villa of Castel Gandolfo before returning to Rome.

“No one has said that the United States should have open borders,” he said. “I think every country has a right to determine who and how and when people enter.

“But when people are living good lives, and many of them for 10, 15, 20 years, to treat them in a way that is extremely disrespectful, to say the least – and there’s been some violence, unfortunately – I think that the bishops have been very clear in what they said. I think that I would just invite all people in the United States to listen to them.”

The U.S. bishops’ “special pastoral message” said, in part, “As pastors, we

the bishops of the United States are bound to our people by ties of communion and compassion in Our Lord Jesus Christ.

“We are disturbed when we see among our people a climate of fear and anxiety around questions of profiling and immigration enforcement,” it said. “We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants. We are concerned about the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care. We lament that some immigrants in the United States have arbitrarily lost their legal status.”

“We are troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools,” it said.

“We as Catholic bishops love our country and pray for its peace and prosperity. For this very reason, we feel compelled now in this environment to raise our voices in

defense of human dignity.”

The statement refers to Catholic social teaching on immigration, which seeks to balance interrelated principles: the right of persons to migrate to sustain themselves, the right of a country to regulate its borders, and a nation’s duty to conduct that regulation with justice and mercy.

WHAT CATHOLIC TEACHING SAYS

Catholic teaching “exhorts nations to recognize the fundamental dignity of all persons, including immigrants,” the statement said. “We bishops advocate for a meaningful reform of our nation’s immigration laws and procedures. Human dignity and national security are not in conflict. Both are possible if people of good will work together. We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good. Without such processes, immigrants face the risk of trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Safe and legal pathways serve as an antidote to such risks.”

The Church’s teaching, it noted, “rests on the foundational concern for the human person, as created in the image and

likeness of God (Genesis 1:27).”

“As pastors, we look to Sacred Scripture and the example of the Lord Himself, where we find the wisdom of God’s compassion,” it continued. “The priority of the Lord, as the Prophets remind us, is for those who are most vulnerable: the widow, the orphan, the poor, and the stranger (Zachariah 7:10). In the Lord Jesus, we see the One who became poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9), we see the Good Samaritan who lifts us from the dust (Luke 10:30-37), and we see the One who is found in the least of these (Matthew 25).

“The Church’s concern for neighbor and our concern here for immigrants is a response to the Lord’s command to love as He has loved us (John 13:34),” it said.

BISHOPS APPROVE STATEMENT

The message was approved by the vast majority of voting bishops and was met with a standing ovation. Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, newly elected president of the USCCB, spoke in favor of the statement from the floor, saying, “I’m strongly in support of it for the good of our immigrant brothers and sisters,” adding that the statement sought “balance” in “protecting the rights of immigrants, but also securing and calling upon our lawmakers and our administration to offer us a meaningful path of reform for our immigration system.”

According to a USCCB news release, this “marked the first time” in 12 years the bishops’ conference “invoked this particularly urgent way of speaking as a body of bishops.”

Boston Archbishop Richard G. Henning said the feeling of “we have to say something” on the subject of showing solidarity with immigrants has been “kind of bubbling up from the bishops.”

“Obviously, the beliefs of the Church have political consequences, but they’re not political in the usual sense of the word,” he said. “And so there was a real effort to make sure that this would be a pastoral address to our people rather than an attempt to lobby.”

Despite differences in age, geography or other viewpoints, Archbishop Henning said, the U.S. bishops have almost universally heard from parishioners or pastors about “suffering the effects of this.”

“I think there was a pretty powerful sense among all the bishops that what we’re experiencing on the ground in our dioceses is that there’s a great deal of suffering and confusion, and I would say even chaos,” he said. “There’s a kind of arbitrariness right now, in the experience of the people, that generates pretty significant fear.”

Archbishop Coakley, Bishop Flores elected to USCCB roles

BALTIMORE — Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City and Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, Texas, were elected Nov. 11 as president and vice president, respectively, of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops during the bishops’ fall plenary assembly in Baltimore. They will serve three-year terms. The 2025 elections were notable because

they marked the first leadership change at the conference since Pope Leo XIV, the U.S.-born pontiff, began his pontificate in May. Archbishop Coakley, 70, has led the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City since 2011. He was born in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1955. He has been serving as the USCCB’s secretary. Bishop Flores, 64, was born in 1961 in Palacios, Texas.

Archbishop Coakley was elected president on the third round of voting, and Bishop Flores on the first round for the vice presidential election. Also elected was Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana, as the new secretary. Archbishop Alexander K. Sample of Portland, Oregon, was

elected as chair of the Committee for Religious Liberty. Chairmen-elect and their committees are: Archbishop Jeffrey S. Grob of Milwaukee for Canonical Affairs and Church Governance; Auxiliary Bishop Peter Smith of Portland, Oregon, for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs; Bishop William Wack of PensacolaTallahassee, Florida, for Evangelization and Catechesis; Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia for International Justice and Peace; and Bishop Mark O’Connell of Albany, New York, for Protection of Children and Young People.

New English language version of Bible to be published

BALTIMORE — A new English version of the Bible will be released in 2027 with the name

The Catholic American Bible, according to Bishop Steven J. Lopes, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Divine Worship.

The announcement was made Nov. 11 during the U.S. bishops’ fall plenary assembly. The translation “is meant to be the common text between the lectionary at Mass, the Scripture that is used in the Liturgy of the Hours and a Bible text that you can have as a physical Bible for your own private prayer and devotion,”

Bishop Lopes said.

The Catholic American Bible will replace the New American Bible-Revised Edition, which was released in March 2011, according to the USCCB. A Spanish New Testament, La Biblia de la Iglesia en América (BIA) Nuevo Testamento, is also in the works, with availability for Ash Wednesday 2026.

Our senior sisters, brothers, and religious order priests need your help. Decades of caring for others with little or no pay have left many communities without sufficient retirement savings. Over 20,500 elderly religious depend on the Retirement Fund for Religious for health care, medication, and daily living expenses. Your gift helps ensure they receive the care they deserve. Please give back to those who have given a lifetime.

Please donate at your local parish, December 13–14, or by mail at:

Religious Retirement Office/CHA 3211 Fourth Street NE

Archbishop Thomas Wenski

Speak out against unjust laws amid mass deportations

The mass deportation of irregular migrants continues to grow in momentum. It is increasingly apparent that the targets for these enforcement actions are not only “bad actors,” criminals that no one wants loose on our streets, but also hard working, honest people – many of whom have been in this country for decades paying taxes, raising families and contributing to the common good of our nation.

In Victor Hugo’s famous 19th-century novel “Les Misérables” (perhaps more familiar to many in its modern musical version), Inspector Javert, motivated by bitterly zealous legalism, relentlessly pursues Jean Valjean, who had spent years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread.

Today, modern-day Javerts bent on enforcing a broken and thus unjust immigration regime are deporting agricultural, construction, service and hospitality workers who have an irregular immigration status. As a result, various personalities in the government and the news media fan flames of resentment against these supposed law breakers, equating them with terrorists intent on hurting us.

I deliberately describe these migrants as “irregular,” not as “undocumented” or “illegal,” because the majority of them have some type of documentation or even legal status – albeit a temporary legal status –and most are not guilty of any serious crime.

THE CATHOLIC VIEW OF JUSTICE

Justice must be more than a cold and impersonal calculation of the narrow legalism of an Inspector Javert.

Justice is first and foremost a virtue. The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes the virtue of justice as “the constant and firm will to give their due to God and neighbor.” In other words, justice is the virtue by which we turn outward toward God and to other people, to affirm their fundamental dignity and strive to act in accord with their true good.

To be a just man or woman is to be a person who turns outward to other people seeing them as God sees them, which is of course with perfect and unwavering charity.

Today, many take umbrage at the Catholic bishops’ advocacy on behalf of the irregular migrant, but in doing so, we stand in a proud moral tradition that holds positive laws that promote both the common good and the good of the individual in society.

This is what Jesus meant when He said the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath. St. Augustine is attributed to have said, “An unjust law is no law at all,” which is why we, a nation of laws, can honor law breakers like the patriots of the Boston Tea Party and allow the dignified defiance of Rosa Parks in her act of law breaking to touch our conscience.

We can be a nation of laws, without becoming a nation of Javerts. As Jesus reminded the embittered zealots of his day, positive laws, even divine positive law like the Sabbath observance, are designed for the benefit of man, not to harm humankind.

PUT DOORS IN THE WALLS

The present enforcement-only approach aggravates the polarization of our body politics, and it causes irreparable harm to many families whose loved ones are rounded up, detained and ultimately deported to countries that they have not known in many cases for decades.

Ultimately, this will not work for the benefit of America. Rather than just busying itself with enforcing flawed immigration laws, the administration should work with Congress to change the laws.

This is why the bishops have long advocated for a comprehensive immigration reform, one that would address the need for a legal labor force, aid in family reunification, and provide a path to citizenship for those who have resided and worked here in the U.S.

Border “walls” should also have “doors” that would permit the flow of legal immigrants. Catholic teaching does recognize that nations have a right to control their borders, but these same teachings urge richer nations to be generous in admitting those fleeing persecution or seeking conditions worthy of human life.

America has shown such generosity in the past and is certainly capable of continuing to do so today.

Elizabeth Scalia

Parents, it’s your fault your kids don’t know the Our Father

Several years into young motherhood, I volunteered to prepare parish second graders for their first Communion.

The weekly classes with 18 children often felt like 45-minute exercises in humility, but my goal was to ensure that when the children experienced their first encounter with the Flesh and Blood of Christ, they knew it really was Jesus, and that Jesus really did know them, love them and long to be received into their bodies, hearts and minds.

Brief classes meant there wasn’t much time left to train the children in spiritual supplication, but I did guide them (week after week), through halting recitations of the “big three” prayers that form the bedrock of Catholic orisons: the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be.

‘I never thought about it, but it really was our role to be our kids’ first teachers. And answering their questions has helped us to learn more.’

I say “halting” because, while the children remembered that we’d done this before, the prayers never flowed easily off their tongues. Although I dedicated three distinct classes to teaching what all those unfamiliar and mysterious words meant, retention wasn’t happening.

THE FIRST WAY TO LEARN ABOUT FAITH

So when a mother angrily questioned why her daughter didn’t know the Our Father, I sassed back a little: “Well, I have 45 minutes a week with them. You have every day; are you teaching it to her? Are you praying with your kids? That’s actually your job, you know, to teach them how to pray by your own example. Are you praying?”

I expected a solid clap-back from the mother, but instead her eyes grew wide and she stood silently for a moment before nodding her head. “Yeah,” she considered. “I guess you don’t really have time.”

At her thoughtful response, I gentled my tone. “Kids need to see their parents praying, you know, and to be invited to pray with them. That’s how they learn their prayers. That’s the first and most important way that they begin to learn about faith.”

By spring, that little girl was happily leading the class in recitation. One day I ran into her mother at the Stations of the Cross, and she pulled me aside. “You were right. Until we had words, I never thought about it, but it really

was our role to be our kids’ first teachers. And answering their questions has helped us to learn more, ourselves!”

The parents became active in the parish, the father becoming an usher, and the mom eventually picking up my class when I could no longer teach.

CLUELESS ABOUT THE CRUCIFIX

Fast forward 40 years and a pre-Mass plea for instructors to teach older children preparing for confirmation. Now in semi-retirement, I figured I could help.

After our first meeting, our director asked me how it went.

“These poor kids, they cannot read!” I blurted out in honest horror. “It broke my heart to see it!”

“I know,” she acknowledged sadly. “COVID and video-schooling really left them at a disadvantage.”

“And they don’t know the Our Father or the Hail Mary! They know no prayers at all!”

“We try to remind parents to pray with their kids…” she drifted off. She is a very kind woman who has been doing this for over 30 years. She understands how deeply parental involvement matters.

“They don’t actually know what a crucifix is,” I ranted. “None of them say they’ve seen a crucifix in their homes! I ended up dragging them over to the crucifix and explaining it –why it’s different from an empty cross, and why we keep it before us. One girl actually seemed a little interested, for a minute.”

“Yes, it’s tough when they’ve been in school all day and it’s dinner time.”

That night I went to a Catholic supply site, ordering a dozen small standing crucifixes. They’re all blessed and ready to be given out at our next session.

PARENTS, PLEASE TEACH YOUR CHILDREN

Parents, please: Pray with your children, at least the “big three” prayers. Memorized prayers are foundational, giving your kids a starting point – the words with which to begin, when they find themselves really needing and wanting to turn to God.

Parents, please: Get a crucifix (or two!) and perhaps a statue of Mary or an icon. Place holy things around your house; explain what they are and why they are important and good to have near.

Parents, please: Set aside a half-hour a night when all media are silenced and read aloud to your children. It is a great and bonding gift to be read to. It helps spark the imagination and creates curiosity about books and stories. It helps kids build a vocabulary of self-expression and human reference that they will need in life.

Parents, please: Creating Christians who are whole human beings is all of our jobs. But it’s yours first.

ELIZABETH SCALIA is editor at large for OSV. Follow her on X @ theanchoress.

Father Mark Lawlor

It’s about time – in Advent and in every season

In the early 1970s, I had two music albums. One of them was Chicago’s debut album, which included a catchy song titled “Does anyone really know what time it is?” In those days there were mostly mechanical clocks and watches (and no cell phones), so there wasn’t the precision of knowing the time as accurately as today. Often, even among family and friends, there could be a discrepancy of five minutes or so.

It is said that the song’s author, Robert Lamm, once asked an usher at a movie theater, “What time is it?” He responded by saying, “Does anyone really know?,” which inspired the future song. A theme of the song is that we should not forget the blessings or joys of life in the midst of our rushing from one place to another.

‘Our time on earth is relatively brief, and as God’s stewards we should use every second to glorify Him.’

Psalm 39:4-6

Years ago, I remember learning that there are two Greek words in the Bible that describe time: chronos and kairos. Chronos focuses on how much time passes, while kairos focuses on the quality and significance of the time itself. Chronos is objective and measurable, as we have a chronology, while kairos is subjective and depends on perception and context. Chronos structures our daily lives and obligations, while kairos is about recognizing and acting during opportune moments for growth or change.

CHRONOS TIME: HOURS, SCHEDULES

Much of our thinking about time is done with a chronos mindset. We have 24 hours each day. I can remember the days when I had to punch the clock at the beginning and the end of a work shift. There are appointments, meetings and liturgies that have a scheduled start time. On my first day in this parish, eight years ago, a daily Mass participant asked me when the Mass

would begin. I answered, “At 9 a.m.” He sarcastically said that wasn’t always the case, as the Mass often started after 9. Our time on earth is relatively brief (Ps. 39:4-6), and as God’s stewards we should use every second to glorify Him, putting Him first in every area of our lives. Tombstones often display the dates of an individual’s birth and death, separated by a dash. That dash represents the person’s chronos time on earth. “So teach us to number our days,” as Moses prayed, “that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Ps. 90:12).

Having learned something about the distinctions between chronos and kairos, I think of individuals or even cultures that seem to favor one or the other. If you like meetings to start on time, you may be preferring chronos. If you don’t necessarily mind arriving late, perhaps you are favoring kairos. For example, I was once preparing to officiate a marriage and the bride and the bridesmaids arrived one hour and 40 minutes after the scheduled start time. I thought to myself: if they had called me and told me how late they were going to be, I could have gone to the office and worked at my desk for a while.

KAIROS TIME: MOMENTS OF MEANING

As zealous, good stewards of chronos time, we often miss obvious kairos opportunities, which are about moments rather than minutes. A moment lost is an opportunity gone forever. Understanding the difference helps in balancing structured daily responsibilities with moments of deeper meaning and impactful action.

Effectively managing time requires recognizing the value of both chronos and kairos.

Being productive and efficient (chronos) provides the structure to meet daily responsibilities.

Being present and responsive to opportune moments (kairos) enriches experiences and leads to greater fulfillment. Experience and wisdom help us.

Kairos is a window of time that requires an intentional, purposeful response. It is a time in which life-shaping decisions are made. It is a defining moment. Wise people recognize and respond to kairos moments. Advent is a special time in our liturgical year. For many people, it is a busy time often filled with shopping, decorating, baking and rushing around. Some parishioners have told me over the years, “Father, I don’t know how I will get it all done!” This Advent, let us balance both chronos and kairos. Amid the holiday rush, set aside some quality time for reflection, prayer, reconciliation and discernment. Let this be a time of wonder as we meditate on God’s saving plan and prepare for the Lord’s return in glory. Let us strive to know and understand the will of God, and rejoice in the time He gives each of us.

Most-read stories on the web

‘The Church draws life not from herself but from the Gospel. From the Gospel she continually rediscovers the direction for her journey, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who teaches all things and reminds us of everything the Son has said.’

Pope Leo XIV

From online story: “Help everyone access the Bible, including online, pope urges”

The Catholic News Herald reached the Facebook and Instagram feeds of more than 820,00 people in English and Spanish last month. The most talked about post? Coverage of Vocations Awareness Week. Join the conversation: www.facebook.com/ CatholicNewsHerald.

Over the past 30 days ending Nov. 19, 35,500 visitors to www.catholicnewsherald.com have viewed a total of 54,000 pages. The top 10 trending headlines are:

St. Charbel’s relic to visit three churches in diocese ..................................................................

n Los obispos de EE.UU. denuncian la difamación de los inmigrantes

n Event fosters ecumenical conversation on ministry.....................................................................

St. Lawrence Basilica celebrates beginning of historic renovations

Join the conversation online

Letters policy

The Catholic News Herald welcomes letters from readers. We ask that letters be originals of 250 words or fewer, pertain to recent newspaper content or Catholic issues, and be written from a perspective of Christian charity.

To be considered for publication, each letter must include the name, address and daytime phone number of the writer for purpose of verification. Letters may be condensed due to space limitations and edited for clarity, style and factual accuracy.

The Catholic News Herald does not publish poetry, form letters or petitions. Items submitted to The Catholic News Herald become the property of the newspaper and are subject to reuse, in whole or in part, in print, electronic formats and archives.

E-mail: catholicnews@rcdoc.org

Mail: Letters to the Editor Catholic News Herald 1123 S. Church St. Charlotte, N.C. 28203