DIOCESE WELCOMES NEW CLASS OF PERMANENT DEACONS
OCTOBER 25, 2026
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NURTURING THE NEXT GENERATION OF DISCIPLES PAGE 5 THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS MINISTRY HELPS YOUNG PEOPLE GROW IN THEIR CATHOLIC FAITH, BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND BECOME ACTIVE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH. PHOTO BY THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE
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OCTOBER 25, 2026
CONTENTS
7 8 12 13 14
THE YOUNG AND THE SELFLESS
Fr. Daniel Seo prepares to lead next summer’s contingent to World Youth Day in Seoul, South Korea.
DIOCESE UNVEILS NEW HOUSE OF DISCERNMENT
The first of its kind in Orange County, these homes sponsor seminarians and young men seeking vocation.
A DAY OF SERVICE AND SMILES
The Sisters of St. Joseph visited L’Arche Wavecrest in Orange.
MAKE GOD & NEIGHBOR OUR BUSINESS
The highest commandment is to love.
ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC MISSION STATEMENT The Orange County Catholic Newspaper seeks to illuminate and animate the journey of faith for Catholics within the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange – building solidarity among the faithful and inviting a deeper understanding and involvement in the mission of Christ – through the timely sharing of news, commentary and feature content in an engaging, accessible and compelling format.
ORANGE COUNTY CATHOLIC
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DAILY READINGS AND REFLECTIONS
PRAYER SPOT
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PHOTO COURTESY OF THERESA MURPHY
READER CALL-OUT
Our home prayer spot brings Jesus and Mary into our living room where our early morning gives glory and praise for His merciful presence. Each item has been given by friends or collected on pilgrimages.
SAINT PROFILE
— Pope Leo XIV
CRISPIN AND CRISPINIAN
DIED C. 285
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EGENDS CLAIM THESE MARTYRS were third-century missionaries from Rome who preached the Gospel at Soissons, in Gaul, where they worked at shoemakers. In British tradition they fled France for England because of persecution. The saints, whose relics may have been enshrined in Soissons and in Rome, are remembered as the patrons of shoemakers and other leather workers. Shakespeare immortalized Crispin in "Henry V," in the king's St. Crispin's Day speech, rallying his "band of brothers" before the battle of Agincourt. C
—Theresa Murphy, St. Hedwig Catholic Church, Los Alamitos. Do you have a favorite prayer spot? Please include a brief description of the photo and why it is special to you. Include your name and home parish, and send to: editor@occatholic.com
READINGS FOR THE WEEK
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You are the hope!
PHOTOS: CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE, SHUTTERSTOCK
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
EPHESIANS 4:32– 5:8; PSALM 1:1-2, 3, 4, 6; LUKE 13:10-17
EPHESIANS 5:2133; PSALM 128:1-2, 3, 4-5; LUKE 13:18-21
EPHESIANS 2:19-22; PSALM 19:2-3, 4-5; LUKE 6:12-16
EPHESIANS 6:1020; PSALM 144:1B, 2, 9-10; LUKE 13:31-35
PHILIPPIANS 1:1-11; PSALM 111:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; LUKE 14:1-6
PHILIPPIANS 1:18B26; PSALM 42:2, 3, 5CDEF; LUKE 14:1, 7-11
REVELATION 7:2-4, 9-14; PSALM 24:1BC-2, 3-4AB, 5-6; 1 JOHN 3:13; MATTHEW 5:1-12A
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FEATURE
NURTURING THE NEXT GENERATION OF DISCIPLES BY GREG MELLEN
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NCREASINGLY, YOUNGER generations are flocking to the Church. That’s a fact. And in Orange County, the diocese is taking notice. Although nationally the results for Catholics are mixed, with the Pew Research Center among others showing stable results for the Catholics as a percentage of overall population, the nation’s young adults tell a very different story. One need only look at crowded sanctuaries to see the face of the Church is changing. The population of the Diocese of Orange has roughly quadrupled since its founding, but now in addition to racial diversity, there is a new and growing demographic. Data-driven studies have backed such observations about the changes. A study of more than 3,000 parishioners by the Catholic nonprofit Leadership Roundtable found not only are young adults a growing population, but they are also the most engaged and likely to remain or join if they feel welcomed or find ministries with which they connect. The report found they are more likely than any other age group to attend Mass daily, weekly or monthly and engage in parish activities beyond Mass. However, it is a two-sided sword, because they are also a volatile population and most at risk of leaving. Stepping into the breach of the twin opportunities and challenges is the diocese’s Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. Director Armando Cervantes, who also serves as director of the Hispanic Ministry, oversees Youth and Young Adults. However, it is co-coordinators Tricia Navidad and Cecilia Phan who are charged specifically with the ministry and evangelization of young adults as well as young families.
THE YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS MINISTRY HOSTED A RECREATION RETREAT FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS IN APRIL 2026 AT FOREST HOME RETREAT CENTER. PHOTO BY IAN TRAN/ DIOCESE OF ORANGE
Since the two joined forces in 2024, when Navidad came aboard, they have been an unstoppable force. “Right now, we’re targeting 18- to 29-year-olds,” Navidad said, as well as married couples between 21 and 39. “There seems to be a tremendous need for community and human skills.” Many in the category came of age during the COVID-19 pandemic, which had profound effects on their socialization and led to isolation for many. That is changing, and “they want more than a digital world,” Navidad said. Whether it’s seeking like-minded in-
dividuals, closer connections to pastoral care, group events, worship or adoration, young adults want more from their faith. In just 2 ½ years, the diocese has hired at least 15 full-time ministers for young adults. With 28 YA parish programs (and growing) plus four college Catholic clubs at four OC universities, one community college and associations with more than a half dozen Young Adults movements and groups, the outreach is extensive and growing. Navidad said she hopes to expand similar programs into all the public community colleges in Orange County
and maybe even trade and post-secondary schools. Studies show many Catholics fall away from the faith in their late teens and early 20s. “We don’t want to miss out on those four years,” Navidad said of post-high school. The Young Adult Ministry has also hosted beach barbecues, speed dating, speaker series and all manner of events to draw in the 18-29 age demographic. They have even offered “date night” childcare for couples with families. This summer, in addition to an annuCONTINUES ON PAGE 6
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FEATURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
THE DIOCESAN YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS MINISTRY HOSTED A SPEED DATING EVENT ON THE CHRIST CATHEDRAL CAMPUS IN 2024. PHOTO BY THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE
To report sexual abuse by clergy or church personnel please call: 1 (800) 364-3064 Healing and Hope After Abortion: 1 (800) 722-4356 New Hope Peer-to-Peer Support Line | Mon - Fri 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM | Sat - Sun 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM: 1 (714) NEW-HOPE or 1 (714) 639-4673 BÁO CÁO LẠM DỤNG TÌNH DỤC Nếu bạn là nạn nhân bị lạm dụng tình dục bởi một linh mục/ tu sĩ hay một thành viên trong Giáo Hội gây ra, xin hãy gọi và báo cáo cho Giáo phận ở số điện thoại miễn phí sau đây: 1-800-364-3064, và đồng thời báo cáo cho nhà chức trách địa phương. 본당내의 성적학대 신고 성직자나 성당 사목을 대표하는 관리자에 의한 성적 학대의 피해자 인 경우, 교구청의 무료 신고 전화 번호, 1-800-364-3064 및 관할 지역 법 집행 기관에 전화하십시오.
al Young Adult mission trip to Jamaica, which has annually been offered mostly to parishioners of St. Thomas More Catholic Church, a second diocese-wide mission trip was offered, led by Fr. Ian Gaston, in August. In addition to living alongside members of the Catholic Missionaries of the Poor, the young parishioners worked and worshiped with the missionaries in the slums of Kingston. Two newer programs that excite Navidad — one for women and one for men — are the Bethany Women’s Ministry and Iron Sharpens Iron. Bethany has been a rousing success since it started about a year-and-a-half ago. “We’ve mapped it out with quarterly brunches with really good food and speakers,” Navidad said of the events which draw 150 to 250 women per event. Iron Sharpens Iron takes its name from Proverbs: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” and seeks to promote brotherhood, deeper
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faith and to involve men in service and ministry. The program is kind of a rebuild of a previous effort that lost steam when its main organizer moved out of state. The idea, Navidad said, is to start with podcasts viewed in small groups containing either interviews with notable speakers or reflections on faith. As an example, she pointed out speaker Chris Mueller, a nationally renowned speaker who she said, “really brings men in focusing on responsibility, purpose and faith.” Another is Bobby Angel, who focuses on lifting and inspiring the faithful during difficult times. As the program gains momentum, she hopes to arrange quarterly dinners and barbecues and service opportunities. “We’re seeing great hunger out there,” Navidad said. “People are very curious and a lot are coming back to the faith.” To learn more, visit rcbo.org/ministry/young-adult-ministry/ C
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FEATURE
THE YOUNG AND THE SELFLESS
is a very important part of my life,” he said, “and I’m excited to experience World Youth Day with other Catholics from around the world. I am looking forward to meeting people from different countries and seeing how we can share the same faith even though we come from different backgrounds.”
BY GREG HARDESTY
— a group of 60. His contingent will be visiting several R. DANIEL SEO, DIRECTOR of shrines before the events in Seoul. The Our Lady of Peace Korean Cath- theme of World Youth Day 2027 is “Take olic Center in Irvine, attended his courage! I have overcome the world” first World Youth Day in Poland (John 16:33), Jesus’ final encouragement in 2016 when he was a seminarian. to His disciples before His crucifixion. The star of that global gathering of Many of the sites Fr. Daniel and his young Catholics was Pope John Paul II, parishioners will visit are connected to who established World Youth Day in the 103 Korean martyrs, the victims of 1985. Some have called it the pontiff’s religious persecution against Catholics “most beautiful creation.” during the 19th century. John Paul II The multi-day celebration of faith, made his first papal visit to South Korea held every three to four years, attracts in 1984 to canonize those martyrs. several hundred thousand participants. “This is a real big deal for me and the In 2023, Fr. Daniel led his first group group we’re taking because a large part of young adults from Our Lady of Peace of our visit will be about the legacy of the to World Youth Day in Portugal. Korean martyrs,” Fr. Daniel said. “And Although both were seminal experifor Korean Americans who grew up here ences for Fr. Daniel, who was ordained in the U.S., who do we fall back on? We eight years ago, next year’s World Youth have some Korean saints but learning Day in Seoul (Aug. 3-8) promises to be about the martyrs is very important. monumental for the Korean American This trip will provide a great opportunity native of Orange County. for us to familiarize ourselves with that Not only will it mark the first time legacy.” World Youth Day is being hosted in a country where Christianity is a minority EXCITED TO GO faith (although growing, the percentJosephine Ahn, a third-generation age of Catholics in South Korea is only Korean American and parishioner at Our 11.4%), but it also will only be the second Lady of Peace Korean Catholic Center, time for the event to be held in Asia (after will be attending World Youth Day in Manila in 1995). Seoul. What’s more, World Youth Day 2027 “I’m excited for a countless number will be the first led by Pope Leo XIV. of things — some being the fact that it And the gathering comes at a time when will be taking place in Korea, that it will South Korea is “being inundated with be held by the first American pope, that intense Westernized secularity – the faith I will be able to learn more about my is being tested,” as Fr. Daniel put it. people and religion, and that I’ll be there with my friends,” she said. LEGACY OF THE 103 KOREAN Josephine, 13, was shocked and deMARTYRS lighted when she learned that Pope Leo Although a handful of parishes in the would be leading the celebration in South Diocese of Orange will be participating Korea. in World Youth Day activities next sum“I know the basics of Korean culture mer, Fr. Daniel will be leading the largest and customs but not as much as I’d
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A HAPPY COINCIDENCE
FR. DANIEL SEO WILL LEAD A GROUP OF 60 TO SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA, NEXT SUMMER FOR A HISTORIC WORLD YOUTH DAY. PHOTOS COURTESY OF FR. DANIEL SEO
like and should, so World Youth Day is the best way for me to learn about the Korean way,” she said. “I’m also excited to learn more about Catholicism and to meet new people who are like me. I’ve always had the thirst of wanting to learn more about my faith, and it seems like I’ll get a plethora of new knowledge during the pilgrimage.” Matt Nagata, 27, another member of Fr. Daniel’s group, looks forward to being pushed outside of his comfort zone. “I hope to lean into that discomfort and come out the other side with a stronger, more grounded relationship with God,” he said. “More than anything, I want this to be the start of something lasting rather than a single moment — one that shapes how I lead others in faith long after we return home.” Chris, 14, volunteers at Our Lady of Peace Korean Catholic Center as an altar server and through the youth group. “Being a part of the Catholic Church
Fr. Daniel notes a happy timing coincidence with World Youth Day 2027. By the time his group returns from their journey, ground is scheduled to be broken on a shrine at Our Lady of Peace Korean Catholic Center that will be the first Korean Marian shrine in North America. A full church designed in the French neo-gothic style, the shrine is critical for evangelizing. “We have souls to convert here,” Fr. Daniel said. For more information about World Youth Day 2027 visit wydseoul.org/en C
IN 2023, FR. DANIEL SEO LED HIS FIRST GROUP OF YOUNG ADULTS FROM OUR LADY OF PEACE TO WORLD YOUTH DAY IN PORTUGAL.
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DIOCESAN NEWS
DIOCESE UNVEILS NEW HOUSE OF DISCERNMENT
a dining room, living room, outdoor year, allowing the diocese to journey garden patio space and a chapel, as well with them from the very beginning of as visiting priest’s suite and a bedroom their call to priesthood through their for the on-site priest who manages the ordination. house. “Breathing new life into the historic The diocese wishes to preserve the convent will honor the Sisters of St. BY BRADLEY ZINT “Well-formed priests are not an acci- original spiritual and architectural Joseph legacy while offering discerners dent,” said Fr. Cheeyoon Chun, director character of the property, including the the chance to remain in Orange CounFORMER CONVENT IN San- of priestly vocations for the Diocese of refurbishment of the chapel’s stainedty, rather than leaving the communita Ana is becoming a special Orange. “The House of Discernment glass windows, while adapting the ties that shaped their faith,” added Fr. communal house for men will offer men the opportunity to live building into a specialized, 21st-century Cheeyoon. “They will determine if God considering the priesthood, in fraternity with fellow discerners, home for faith and discernment. truly is calling them to become a priest a first of its kind in Orange County and receive spiritual direction and partici“The House of Discernment is more and make the eight-year commitment one of few such houses in the United pate in intentional human, spiritual and than a building restoration,” said to the seminary.” States. pastoral formation. This early formation Kathleen Hurtt, executive director of Sr. Mary Beth Ingham, CSJ, general The House of Discernment — part helps ensure those who continue to sem- The Orange Catholic Foundation. “It superior of the Sisters of St. Joseph of of the St. Joseph Catholic Church and inary are ready to embrace this lifelong is an investment in the men who may Orange, noted how her order was misSchool property near Santa Ana’s French vocation.” one day bless you with the sacraments, sioned at St. Joseph’s and its neighborPark — will have dormitory-style living The diocese is aiming to complete walk alongside your family or lead your ing convent for decades. conditions that give diocesan leadthe project by fall 2027. The House of parish in faith. We have a short timeline “Here, we were educators and memers a chance to get better acquainted Discernment will have seven simple because we have so many men expressbers of the parish community,” she said. with future priests and to gauge their bedrooms for discerners (containing a ing interest in the priesthood.” “We shared life with the thousands that maturity and readiness. Currently, the bed, sink and desk) that use two large Men will live at the home for varied came through these doors and formed CONTINUES ON PAGE 9 diocese chooses and sponsors men for a shared bathrooms. It will also have periods ranging from a few weeks to a seminary after conducting interviews, background checks and hosting group events. With the House of Discernment, that process would be significantly enhanced by having them complete extended stays in an environment of brotherhood — where, through various meetings, prayer and daily obligations, they can demonstrate their commitment, responsibility and holiness before entering the seminary. Bishop Kevin Vann blessed the house during a short ceremony on Oct. 6, with various benefactors, priests, and members of The Orange Catholic Foundation and Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange in attendance. The Orange Catholic Foundation has been tasked with raising $3.5 million to add furnishings and fully renovate the building, which is believed to date to around 1915. Between 1932 and 1971, it was a convent for the Sisters of St. Joseph before being used by the adjacent St. Joseph school. However, the aging 5,800-square-foot structure has long needed a major renovation, which began BISHOP KEVIN VANN BLESSES THE NEW HOUSE OF DISCERNMENT IN SANTA ANA DURING A CEREMONY ON OCT. 6. PHOTO BY IAN TRAN/DIOCESE OF ORANGE earlier this year.
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their faith here, united in the hopes and prayers for the local community and the world. It is part of our Sisters of St. Joseph tradition to support others to carry good works forward. “We are grateful to Bishop Vann and the diocesan community that this residence where we daily experienced the Holy Spirit, will continue to influence those in discernment who seek to serve our beautiful, yet wounded world, shar-
ing the Great Love of God with every person they encounter.” The Orange Catholic Foundation is actively raising funds to support the project. Naming opportunities for key spaces will be available, such as for the chapel, prayer garden, formation library, dining room and kitchen. For more information about the House of Discernment and to donate, visit OrangeCatholicFoundation.org/ hod C
FR. CHEEYOON CHUN, DIRECTOR OF PRIESTLY VOCATIONS IN THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE, ADDRESSES GUESTS ON OCT. 6. PHOTOS BY IAN TRAN/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
FR. ERIALDO RAMIREZ ALFARO, PAROCHIAL VICAR AT ST. NORBERT, ORANGE, BLESSES THE HOUSE OF DISCERNMENT ON OCT. 6.
BISHOP KEVIN VANN, ALONG WITH VARIOUS BENEFACTORS, PRIESTS AND MEMBERS OF THE ORANGE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION AND SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF ORANGE, GATHERED ON OCT. 6 AT THE NEW HOUSE OF DISCERNMENT. O C T O B E R 2 5 , 2 0 2 6 ■ O C C A T H O L I C
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FEATURE
DIOCESE WELCOMES NEW CLASS OF PERMANENT DEACONS BY GREG MELLEN
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N SATURDAY, OCT. 10, the diocese welcomed a new class of permanent deacons. These 12 men come from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities. They have different occupations and have traveled disparate life paths and yet they converged at this one place — Christ Cathedral. After nearly five years of formal formation beginning in December 2021 and added years of preparation through personal reflection and consideration, the men gathered before a large gathering to be ordained as the Class of 2026 permanent deacons of the Diocese of Orange. They join a brotherhood of 138 active and 181 overall members who make up the Office of the Diaconate. For Jim Hart, it was legacy that drew him, at least in part. The son of a deacon and lifelong Catholic, he was an altar boy at his father’s ordination. Growing up in a devout family, he said, “it shaped how I live and how I inherited the faith.” Although it took years of contemplation, recruitment, prayer with his wife, Tracey, and the right timing with his family, when Deacon Jim committed he was all in. “It’s a long process, but it’s been a beautiful five years,” he said. Arturo Gonzalez said he was first approached by Bishop Kevin Vann. “He said, ‘Arturo, maybe you should be a deacon?’ I said ‘OK,’ but I thought, maybe not.” However, in succeeding years, Deacon Arturo said he was asked about becoming a deacon several more times, first by a parish priest and then at a funeral where he assisted. “Three people had asked me,” he recalled. “I thought, ‘This is no coincidence, I need to answer to God.’ Now I
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say ‘the call came from God.’” Bob Martin said that one day while in adoration at a silent retreat, after five years of trying not to think about being a deacon, “I suddenly realized God has been courting me.” He could no longer resist, nor did he want to.
ties. The deacons also completed a year focused on preaching, teaching, working in parishes and participating in liturgical services.
JOINING A NEW COMMUNITY
up in advance of a weekend storm, the deacons and faithful convened under the cover of the Cultural Center. Celebrations continued throughout the day, as most of the deacons traveled to their parishes for smaller gatherings with parishioners. Although the ordination celebrates a kind of graduation, Deacon Chris Ciraulo, who was ordained in 2013, said it is also just a beginning, and the new deacons are “launched” into a whole new level of service. “We say they walk out configured to Christ,” said Deacon Tom Saenz, the director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate. “They will be called on to animate the church.”
Over 150 members of the diocesan diaconate attended the Saturday Mass. Although they may be seen by the lay They filled the cathedral courtyard becommunity as “leaders” in the Church, fore the ceremony in a festive gathering. the members of the new deacon class see A large group of the deacons gathered themselves as something else. to pray the Rosary and sing Ave Maria. Part of that can be seen in the nickWhen the class of 12 emerged for the name they gave themselves as a class: processional, they received an enthuServi Christi, Latin for Servants of siastic ovation from the deacons and Christ. well-wishers. Service is a theme to which members When the processional for the of the Class of 2026 continually refer, ceremony queued up, the deacons-towhether it is to Christ, the diocese, the be were joined by their fellow deacons, CLASS OF 2026 laity or the disadvantaged communities more than 45 priests, Bishop Vann and ■ Marco Cabibbo and wife, Dawn where they volunteer. Auxiliary Bishops Thanh Thai Nguyen ■ Jay Carr and wife, Claudine Throughout the ordination the sense and Timothy Freyer. ■ Jim Carter and wife, Jamie of service and humility was everywhere: The new deacons were scheduled to ■ Rigo Contreras and wife, Sonia from the pledge of obedience to prostra- offer blessings to the faithful after the ■ Edwin Ferrell and wife, Tanya tion during the Litany of Supplication, ceremony, each under an individual ■ Jim Hart and wife, Tracey to the kneeling before the bishop for the canopy. However, when winds kicked CONTINUES ON PAGE 11 laying of hands and a blessing. At several points, the wives of the 12 men were recognized, standing by their husbands as they received their vestments, receiving a blessing by the bishop and corsages from their husbands. As the service neared conclusion, the cathedral’s carillon bells tolled the noon hour. The permanent deacons, along with and supported by their wives, are workhorses of the faith, bringing “action to the principles and divinity of Catholicism,” according to literature from the diaconate. To complete their formation, the deacons completed theological and scriptural coursework, often taught by priests and other church leaders. They also engaged in spiritual and pastoral THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE PERMANENT DIACONATE ORDINATION WAS CELEBRATED ON OCT. 10 AT CHRIST CATHEDRAL. assignments in jails, working with the THE NEWEST CLASS OF DEACONS ARE PICTURED WITH BISHOP KEVIN VANN; AUXILIARY BISHOPS THANH THAI NGUYEN poor and homeless and ministering AND TIMOTHY FREYER; FR. BAO THAI, RECTOR OF CHRIST CATHEDRAL; FR. KEVIN SWEENEY, VICAR OF PRIESTS. PHOTO BY SCOTT SMELTZER/DIOCESE OF ORANGE to the sick in hospitals and care facili-
LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE
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■ Bob Martin and wife, Stacey ■ Bernardo Reyes and wife, Delia ■ Arturo Rodriguez and wife, Anabel ■ Victor Soto and wife, Perla ■ Chris Tran and wife, Chi ■ Huy Tran and wife, Amie
THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE FORMALLY WELCOMED 12 PERMANENT DEACONS (PICTURED WITH THEIR WIVES) ON OCT. 10AT CHRIST CATHEDRAL. PHOTO BY IAN TRAN/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
Also recognized was George Haddad, a member of the Maronite Church is an Eastern Catholic Churchin full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. Although ordained in 2024 by his bishop, Deacon George continued taking courses with the class after his ordination. C
DIOCESAN NEWS
SERVICE AND SMILES BY MEG WATERS
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The decorations will be part of a lively gathering featuring a Christmas market and music that benefits hospital-bound children at CHOC Children’s Hospital. The event also hosts an Annual Festival of Lights hosted by L’Arche Wavecrest. One longtime volunteer, Ned Bradley, is a retired civil attorney whose association with the Sisters of St. Joseph goes back at least a generation. His father was an attorney for the sisters while Bradley and his wife regularly attend Mass at the Sacred Heart Chapel on the Sisters of St. Joseph campus. “I really enjoy participating every
year in the Day of Service,” said Bradley. “It’s always different. Last year we cleaned up the garden at the Tustin L’Arche residence, trimming trees and shrubs and generally sprucing up the yard. I like to meet the people living here; they are a lively bunch.” This year, the volunteers helped cut Christmas-themed fabric to make garland chains to decorate not only trees, but also to drape over coat racks to make the whole house festive. L’Arche was founded in Northern France in 1964 as an alternative to the cold and institutional housing condi-
tions for adults with intellectual disabilities. The goal is to provide a home experience in a neighborhood, with support to help residents live within the community at large. The name L’Arche is French for ‘ark,’ invoking the image of Noah’s Ark and a place of safety and community.. Since its founding, L’Arche has expanded to nearly 40 countries and, in 1972, opened the first home, Abraham House, in Orange and later a second home in Tustin. For more volunteer opportunities, visit csjorange.org/how-we-serve C
HE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH’S Week of Service wound to a close at a brightly painted blueand-white home in the heart of Orange. L’Arche Wavecrest opened its doors to nine volunteers who were there not so much to pitch in but to give back — and be present for the adults with intellectual disabilities. Damaris Molena-Morales is the program coordinator for the St. Joseph Justice Center, which organized this year’s Week of Service, Sept. 19-26. “The weeklong event is a great experience to work alongside new volunteers and returning volunteers,” she shared. “Partnering with the different organizations is very fulfilling as we meet folks who are dedicated to meeting the many needs in our community.” The official purpose of the visit was to help make Christmas decorations, but Damaris said it was much more than that. Being present for residents means really seeing them, listening, and connecting heart to heart as children of God. Jacob Austin, who has been an Assistant at L’Arche for five years, said, “We do everything we can to make living in the home feel like family. The residents take part in various programs, while staff provide practical support, cooking, and help them to remain active in the broader community.” On this day, the volunteer service project centered on preparations for the upcoming St. Joseph’s Christmas festival. VOLUNTEERS AND RESIDENTS OF L’ARCHE WAVECREST POSE FOR A PHOTO DURING A DAY OF SERVICE AT ON SATURDAY, SEPT. 26. PHOTO BY SCOTT SMELTZER/ DIOCESE OF ORANGE
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CARRYING HIS CROSS BY LOU PONSI
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OR MORE THAN 50 YEARS, Sr. Joan Games of the Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart has led religious education programs, directed children’s ministries and served as an active presence at retreats and family camps. While Sr. Joan has been beset by significant physical challenges over the past 25 years, she has hardly slowed down. In 1999, Sr. Joan was diagnosed with FOR MORE THAN 50 YEARS, SR. JOAN GAMES OF multiple sclerosis, and in 2016, she THE SOCIETY DEVOTED TO THE SACRED HEART HAS LED RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAMS, DIRECTED endured a 10-hour surgery to correct CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES AND SERVED AS AN ACTIVE stenosis. PRESENCE AT RETREATS AND FAMILY CAMPS. SR. JOAN GAMES AS AN INFANT. During her recovery, Sr. Joan created prayer books filled with photographs of family, friends and supporters. She also began asking fellow patients, nurses and caregivers what they would like her to pray for, and she prays daily for each person and their intentions — a practice she continues today. “You know, I don't think that's ever been in my person to sit back,” Sr. Joan said. “I've always gone forward, and I think it's so important, even if I'm praying with somebody or if I'm listening to somebody … For them to know who God is, it's such an important thing.” Those experiences deepened her understanding of this year’s Gentlemen’s Haberdashery theme: “Love Does Such Things.” The Gentlemen’s Haberdashery is an annual fundraiser featuring prominent executives and leaders modeling a full range of menswear. Funds raised at the event support the Heart of Jesus Retreat Center in Santa Ana. This year’s Gentlemen’s Haberdashery, held Oct. 1 at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, raised $680,000 for the SR. JOAN GAMES, SR. AUDREY TOTH, DR. PETER CZULEGER, SR. RACHAEL GLEASON AT THE 2026 GENTLEMEN'S retreat center. HABERDASHERY. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SR. JOAN GAMES The Heart of Jesus Retreat Center
is owned and operated by the Sisters of the Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart and provides religious formation and faith development for children, youth, adults and families. “Our annual fundraising luncheon and fashion show is where love becomes action,” said Sr. Paula Sawhill of the Sisters of the Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. “God’s love has truly touched each of us, and we are grateful for a community that shares in that spirit.” For Sr. Joan, the calling first came in the form of a gentle nudge. She recalled being drawn to Christ as a young child, fascinated by Baby Jesus in a nativity scene beneath her family’s Christmas tree. While her family wasn’t religious, Sr. Joan felt a connection and remembers asking Baby Jesus questions and telling the Son of God about her life. “Looking back now, I see that God was slowly introducing me to His Son,” Sr. Joan said. At age 12, she helped carry food to the Sacred Heart Sisters convent next door to her home. It was then that Sister Ida Peterfy, foundress of the order, asked her a simple question: “Have you ever thought about being a sister?” “I thought, whoa, that's a big question for a 12-year-old who doesn't even know God,” she recalled. “I think her question absolutely stayed in my heart, but being religious life was something I never thought of. But I can tell you, it's the whole essence of my life now.” Years later, Sr. Joan was attending college at the University of Nevada when a sister presented her with a Bible verse: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find” (Matthew 7:7). At that moment, she recalled suddenly feeling engulfed by the love of the Holy Spirit. “His presence was so overwhelming, and I couldn’t keep His love to myself,” she said. “I knew he was calling me. That's when I knew I wanted to give everything to Him.” And so, Sr. Joan continues to serve. “My challenges have taught me what it means to carry His cross, and I still have so much more to give to Him and to others.” C
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CATHOLIC FAMILY LIFE
MAKE GOD & NEIGHBOR OUR BUSINESS
is particular. It is directed toward each person we encounter. Society asks how much we possess, how successful or self-reliant we are. Commentator Kevin Ndege reflects that the Gospel asks a different question: how much have we learned to love? St. Paul reminds us that when everything else passes away, love remains; love is eternal (1 Cor. 13:8-13). Returning to that funeral vigil, those family and friends discovered through death that love demands doing. It cannot be reduced to sentiment or good intentions. Charles Dickens captured this beautifully in A Christmas Carol: “Business!’ cried the Ghost…. ‘Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance and benevolence were, all, my business!’” So, can we get busy with the daily business of love? Can we be neighbors to our neighbors today? We love God and ourselves best when loving our neighbor better. C
BY DEACON KEVIN DUTHOY
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OT LONG AGO, I was asked to lead a funeral vigil at a local mortuary. I did not know the woman who had died or those in attendance, except the person who asked me to be there. After the liturgy, those who spoke about the decedent through tears had one lamentable thing in common: they admitted they had not seen, spoken with or done much of anything for her for quite some time. Nothing is quite so sad as the words “too late”— the regret of confronting our failures and all the times we had the chance to love, but didn’t. There is a clear connection between that vigil experience and today’s Gospel command to love God and neighbor (Mt. 22:34-40). A lawyer asked Jesus what is the greatest commandment. Jesus responds with the two-sided rule: love God and love your neighbor. To live this Gospel, we need to ask: What is this “love”? Who is this “neighbor”? And do we love ourselves as God loves us? Jesus’ love command is translated into the Greek as agape. This love is not merely a feeling or an emotion. It is a selfless, intentional, sacrificial choice of the will — a way of living, far removed from the “L-U-V” of a greeting card. Agape love, seeks the well-being and highest good of another, whether God, friend or foe. Jesus commands us to love as He loves us on Calvary: with a life focused outward toward God and
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CLASSIFIED ADS PHOTO BY HELENA LOPES ON UNSPLASH
neighbor — heart, mind and soul (Mt. 22:37), complete and undivided. Notice that Jesus does not command us to like everyone, but to love them. We cannot honor a command about feelings, but we can choose to love. We are compelled to love all because each person is created in the image and likeness of God. Our human dignity comes from God; it cannot be taken away by the world. We are all sons and daughters of God; therefore, lovable, even when we are not necessarily likable. Jesus causes us to make a conscious commitment to love, coupled with concrete action. He tells us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and visit the sick — not merely to pray or feel sorry for them,
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but to actively love them. Good thoughts and well wishes are kind, but they are not food, clothing or companionship. As commentator Peter Kreeft notes: Love becomes the work of love. The greatest example is Jesus dying on the Cross. We rightly focus on His pain, suffering and death, but we can lose sight of the truth that we are saved by Jesus’ laying down His life as an act of perfect, extravagant love for the Father and us. And who is our neighbor? Jesus makes clear that everyone is our neighbor — even our enemies, those who have hurt us and those who do not love us in return. As Luke writes, what credit is that if we only love those who love us (Lk. 6:32)? Jesus’ love teaching is not conceptual; it
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OC Catholic Afar
On a trip to Santorini in Greece, we found a Catholic Church nestled in old town Fira, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. We could see it from our hotel balcony. It was a very welcoming parish with many national flags and a shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. There were also prayers posted throughout the church in every language.
—Mari and Paul Cobb, St. Anne Catholic Church, Seal Beach.
We want your photos! Send your pictures of “OC Catholic Afar” — of you, family or friends visiting Catholic churches and other interesting places — to editor@occatholic.com. Please include a brief description of the photo, the name of the person(s) featured in the photo and their home parish. O C T O B E R 2 5 , 2 0 2 6 ■ O C C A T H O L I C
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All Souls’ Day Mass of Remembrance N O V E M B E R 2, 2026
Join us as we gather in prayer and remembrance to honor those who have gone before us.
Holy Sepulcher Cemetery
Cathedral Memorial Gardens
Monday, November 2, 2026 10:00 A.M. Fr. Francis Gloudeman
Monday, November 2, 2026 11:00 A.M. Most Reverend Bishop Kevin Vann
Ascension Cemetery
Good Shepherd Cemetery
Monday, November 2, 2026 10:00 A.M. Reverend George Blais
Monday, November 2, 2026 English/Spanish Mass • 10:00 A.M. Vietnamese Mass • 1:00 P.M. Most Reverend Bishop Thanh Nguyen
OCCEM.org
(888) 543-5020 info@occem.org