Texas Catholic Herald - Nov. 25, 2025

NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

U.S. BISHOPS OFFER UNITED VOICE, PRAYER

Assembly draws migration and leadership focus ▪ SEE PAGES 2 & 16

NOVEMBER 25, 2025

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WINTER SOUP WARMS THE SOUL

Advent recipe for one-pot soup is easy for mealtime ▪ SEE PAGE 3

Proclaiming the Good News to the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston since 1964

VOL. 62, NO. 11

MINISTRY

WELCOMING ADVENT +++

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St. Hildegard of Bingen

St. Teresa of Avila

Houston ranked top large city with highest poverty rate, worsened by gov’t shutdown BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Herald Correspondent

St. Thérèse of Lisieux

St. Catherine of Siena

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Advent reflections from the radiant women doctors of the Church Advent season calls us to put all our hope in God’s love HOUSTON (OSV News) — We radiate the life of Jesus to the world to the extent that we live with the conviction that we are divinely loved. Advent calls us beyond the false security of the merely virtuous person and into the daring surrender to God’s love of the saint. But our feelings and the circumstances of our lives and the world around us so often make it difficult for us to be rooted and grounded in the love of God. Thankfully, what the Advent season calls us BY MICHELLE JONES to, it also makes possible. Special to the Herald These weeks are fertile ground for cultivating trust in the truth that no matter how things may seem to us, we are intimately and tenderly loved by God. And in living this conviction, we may ever more radiantly learn to bear Christ to others. As we contemplate Advent themes in this spirit, we welcome into our company four radiant women, all doctors of the Church, who put all their hope in God’s love: Sts. Thérèse of Lisieux, Hildegard of Bingen, Teresa of Avila and Catherine of Siena. ST. THÉRÈSE OF LISIEUX It is natural for us to live by the changing weather patterns of our emotions. One day, we are anxious about finances or

A SHEPHERD’S MESSAGE † 2

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deadlines or the results of health tests, so we withdraw into a cocoon or snap at those around us. The next day, we are feeling in control of life and rather successful at being human, so we beam joviality and peace upon the world. Advent stirs us from the slumber of following our feelings and urges us to “stay awake” to what faith demands of us (Mk 13:33-37). A particular genius of St. Thérèse of Lisieux was to live in constant trusting vigilance to God’s love for her and thus to be an unwavering beacon of divine goodness. The sweetness of Thérèse’s writing style perhaps makes it easy to miss her tenacious refusal to conform herself to the contours of her changing emotions. However, this consistent decision to be attentive and receptive to the flood of God’s love is unmistakable in Thérèse’s response to the trial of faith that blanketed the last 18 months of her life. After first describing to her prioress her experience of a relentless “night of nothingness” in which “everything has disappeared,” Thérèse goes on to articulate her stance of steadfast trust. She writes: “My dear Mother, I may perhaps appear to you to be exaggerating my trial. In fact, if you are judging according to the sentiments I express in my little poems composed this year, I must appear to you as a soul filled with consolations and one for whom the veil of faith is

EMBRACING ADVENT

COLUMNISTS † 12 - 14

See ADVENT, page 4

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ESPAÑOL † 17

HOUSTON — Houston is now America’s poorest big city, with a poverty rate of 21%, double the national poverty rate, according to recent U.S. Census Bureau data, while the government shutdown, cutting benefits for the poor, pushed desperation even deeper. While the longest government shutdown in U.S. history is officially over, the 43-day pause still affected the pocketbooks of millions of Americans. About 1.4 million federal workers lived without pay for six weeks. Catholic Charities officials say pantry lines were growing with people needing food, but donations have dropped, making less food available because of federal See POVERTY, page 6

SPIRITUALITY

Advent candles guide faithful through season with light SEE PAGE 6

WITHIN THE ARTS

Pope Leo’s top four movies might surprise you SEE PAGE 18

| AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE † 19

2 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

A Shepherd’s Message By Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez

Arzobispo Vásquez comparte su mensaje en línea en español. Visite www.archgh.org para leer su artículo en línea.

During the recent plenary assembly in Baltimore, my brother bishops and I issued a special message on immigration that is rooted in our Catholic faith and in the Gospel call to welcome the stranger. I invite you to read these words carefully and join me in prayer and action, so that together we can build a society where every person is treated with compassion and justice. As we prepare our hearts for Advent, may this season of waiting inspire us to welcome Christ in the migrant and refugee among us. As pastors, we, the bishops of trafficking and other forms of the United States, are bound to our exploitation. Safe and legal people by ties of communion and pathways serve as an antidote to compassion in Our Lord Jesus such risks. Christ. We are disturbed when we The Church’s teaching rests on see among our people a climate of the foundational concern for the fear and anxiety around questions human person, as created in the of profiling and immigration image and likeness of God enforcement. (Gen 1:27). As pastors, we look to We are saddened by the state of sacred Scripture and the example contemporary debate and the of the Lord Himself, where we find vilification of immigrants. We are the wisdom of God’s compassion. concerned about the conditions in The priority of the Lord, as the detention centers and the lack of prophets remind us, is for those access to pastoral care. We lament who are most vulnerable: the that some immigrants in the United widow, the orphan, the poor and States have arbitrarily lost their the stranger (Zech 7:10). In the legal status. We are troubled by Lord Jesus, we see the One who threats against the sanctity of became poor for our sake (2 houses of worship and the special Cor 8:9), we see the Good nature of hospitals and schools. Samaritan who lifts us from the We are grieved when we meet dust (Lk 10:30–37), and we see the parents who fear being detained One who is found in the least of OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE, when taking their children to these (Mt 25). The Church’s PRAY FOR US! school, and when we try to console concern for neighbor and our family members who have already concern here for immigrants is a been separated from their loved ones. response to the Lord’s command to love as He has loved us Despite obstacles and prejudices, generations of (Jn 13:34). immigrants have made enormous contributions to the To our immigrant brothers and sisters, we stand with well-being of our nation. We as Catholic bishops love our you in your suffering, since when one member suffers, all country and pray for its peace and suffer (cf. 1 Cor 12:26). You are not alone! prosperity. For this very reason, we We note with gratitude that so many of our clergy, feel compelled now in this consecrated religious and lay faithful already accompany environment to raise our voices in and assist immigrants in meeting their basic human needs. defense of God-given human We urge all people of goodwill to continue and expand dignity. such efforts. Catholic teaching exhorts We oppose the indiscriminate mass deportation of nations to recognize the people. We pray for an end to dehumanizing rhetoric and fundamental dignity of all persons, violence, whether directed at immigrants or at law including immigrants. We bishops enforcement. We pray that the Lord may guide the leaders advocate for a meaningful reform of our nation, and we are grateful for past and present of our nation’s immigration laws opportunities to dialogue with public and elected officials. ARCHBISHOP and procedures. Human dignity In this dialogue, we will continue to advocate for JOE S. VÁSQUEZ and national security are not in meaningful immigration reform. conflict. Both are possible if people of goodwill work together. As disciples of the Lord, we remain men and women of We recognize that nations have a responsibility to hope, and hope does not disappoint! (cf. Rom 5:5) regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly May the mantle of Our Lady of Guadalupe enfold us all immigration system for the sake of the common good. in her maternal and loving care and draw us ever closer to Without such processes, immigrants face the risk of the heart of Christ. †

You make the ministry of our future Priests possible. Nearly 60 men are currently in formation at St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston to become the next generations of priests. These men spend anywhere from 5 to 7 years preparing for their Ordination to the Priesthood. St. Mary’s Seminary 9845 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77024

To read more about our seminarians and how you can support them, visit www.smseminary.com.

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

THE ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON

PUBLISHING SINCE 1964 (USPS 936-480) EDITORIAL tch@archgh.org • archgh.org/tch 713-652-8215 • Fax: 713-659-3444 CIRCULATION tdieli@archgh.org • 713-652-4444 ADVERTISING ads@archgh.org • 713-652-4407

Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez President & Publisher Jonah Dycus Communications Director & Executive Editor Rebecca Torrellas Managing Editor James Ramos Content Editor Catherine Viola Advertising Manager Holly Beretto, Kerry McGuire, Elizabeth Morales, Nancy Wiechec, and Jo Ann Zuñiga Contributors The Texas Catholic Herald is published semi-monthly on Tuesdays, with one issue in June, July and August, by The Texas Catholic Herald Publishing Co., Inc., 1700 San Jacinto St., Houston, TX 77002. Periodical postage paid at Houston, TX and other distribution points. Postmaster: Send address changes to P.O. Box 907, Houston, TX 77001 Subscription rate: $15 per year; $20 outside Texas; $35 out of U.S.

A member of The Catholic Media Association TCH PUBLISHING SCHEDULE Issue date: December 9 Deadline: Noon on November 18 Issue date: December 23 Deadline: Noon on December 2 Editorial deadlines are no later than Tuesday at noon, 21 days prior to the issue date.

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NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

THE FIRST WORD An Advent recipe: Soup for your soul and loved ones BY NANCY WIECHEC Special to the Herald For the holidays, many people are excited to host family and friends for the Christmas celebration. The anticipation of having a full table of chatter and laughter brings joy to the heart. But there’s also worry, as preparations can dish out a lot of stress. It’s around Advent and Christmas that the story of Jesus visiting the home of Martha and Mary comes to mind. Remember Jesus’ rebuke of Martha as she is absorbed in serving her guest? “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part” (Lk 10:41-42). Oh, to be a Mary, to simply sit back and engage with the company. It’s not so simple for those who are hosting. They want to be sure everything is perfect and that everyone is enjoying themselves. To bring out the attentive Mary this Advent season, try this simple one-pot, made-in-advance meal. This hearty winter minestrone packs goodness and flavor. A vibrant parsley oil adds a special flourish. It’s easy and costs little time and money to make. This recipe will feed a large family and a few guests and provide time to mingle with and appreciate loved ones. Minestrone is fitting for a peaceful Advent weekend filled with holiday parties or ahead of a busy travel time. Consider it for Christmas Eve, a meal following midnight Mass or a late supper on Christmas Day. Make the soup a day or two ahead, leaving out the kale and pasta. Cover and refrigerate the minestrone

FAITHFUL FLAVORS: A SERIES

PHOTO BY NANCY WIECHEC

and parsley oil separately. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the soup and parsley oil from the fridge. Reheat the minestrone to a simmer and then add the kale and pasta as the recipe directs. Give the parsley oil a good whisk, as it may separate a bit in the fridge. For gluten-free minestrone, omit the pasta and substitute one cup of cooked short-grain rice. Omit the sausage for a vegetarian meal. A note about Parmesan rinds: Our household uses Parmigiano-Reggiano for pasta and other dishes throughout the year. The golden outer shell of the cheese is too tough to grate and not of much use. We save them in a plastic bag in the fridge and add them to soup, pasta sauce or cooked grains. The rinds release a burst of umami flavor. Rinds usually melt away during cooking, but if they don’t, simply remove what is left along with the bay leaf before serving. If you don’t have rinds to include, your minestrone will still be delectable. †

Prep: 30 minutes • Cook: 1 hour • Serves 12

METHOD

• 1 pound bulk Italian sausage (mild or hot variety) • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 large carrots, chopped • 3 celery ribs, chopped • 1 yellow onion, chopped • 6 garlic cloves, minced • 1 tablespoon tomato paste • 8 cups vegetable broth • 3 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini or Roman beans, drained and rinsed • 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice • 1 bay leaf • 2 teaspoons dried oregano • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes • 2-3 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano rinds (optional) • 8 Tuscan kale or Swiss chard leaves, spines removed and chopped • 1 cup small-shaped dried pasta ITALIAN PARSLEY OIL • 1 bunch fresh Italian parsley, washed and patted dry • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 teaspoon kosher salt • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Want to go paperless?

Effective Dec. 1 Father Henry Nguyen, S.C.J. Parochial Vicar - Our Lady of Guadalupe, Houston

IN BRIEF

WINTER MINESTRONE WITH ITALIAN PARSLEY OIL INGREDIENTS

PASTORAL APPOINTMENT

1. In large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into bits with a spoon, until the meat is brown. With a slotted spoon, remove the sausage and set aside. Carefully drain all but a tablespoon of grease from the pot. 2. Add the olive oil, carrots, celery and onion to the same pot and cook over medium heat until onions are soft. Add the garlic and tomato paste and cook while stirring for another minute or two. 3. Add the broth, beans, tomatoes, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, chili flakes, Parmesan rinds (if using) and the sausage. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 30 minutes. 4. While the soup cooks, prepare the parsley oil. Cutaway thick stems from the parsley. In a mini food processor or blender, add the parsley, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper flakes and olive oil and whirl until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside. 5. Uncover the minestrone and stir in the kale and the pasta, simmer for 8 minutes until pasta is al dente. Remove from heat. 6. Ladle minestrone into individual bowls and garnish with a teaspoon of parsley oil. Serve with a crusty baguette or rustic-style bread.

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Archdiocesan Guadalupe celebration set for Dec. 6 in downtown Houston HOUSTON — The Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart will host a Mass at 9 a.m. on Dec. 6 to commemorate the anniversary of the Virgin Mary’s appearance to a humble peasant, St. Juan Diego, in 1531 on the hills of Tepeyac in México. Archbishop Joe A. Vásquez and Bishop Italo Dell’Oro will be the celebrants of the Mass. There will be a procession before the Mass starting at 7:30 a.m. in the corners of Walker, Caroline and Austin St., and a celebration will follow. Serenate, reenactment of the apparition and traditional dances will take place at the Joseph A. Fiorenza Plaza at 11 a.m. The Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is located at 1111 St. Joseph Pkwy. †

Retirement Fund for Religious Collection set for Dec. 13 to 14 HOUSTON — The annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection is scheduled in parishes throughout the Archdiocese from Dec. 13 to 14. The funds from the collection provide financial assistance for retirement needs for women and men religious who have selflessly served for decades without significant financial compensation, including several within communities in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. Due to escalating healthcare costs, numerous U.S. religious communities face a substantial gap between their elderly members’ needs and the financial resources available for their care. Many religious orders currently experience insufficient retirement savings. To address the deficit in retirement funding among U.S. religious orders, the Catholic bishops of the U.S. initiated the collection in 1988. For more information, visit www.retiredreligious.org. †

Registration for Feb. 14 race continues GO PAPERLESS!

HOUSTON — Registration is open for the 21st Annual Steps for Students 5K Run/Walk, held Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in downtown Houston. The event raises funds and awareness for the network of Catholic schools in the Archdiocese. The event will start with Mass at 7 a.m., followed by the presentation of the David Guite Spirit Award. The timed 5K race will begin at 8:30 a.m. and a post-race party will follow at the Catholic School Village in the Archbishop Fiorenza Plaza. To register, visit www.steps4students.org. †

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ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

Honoring 125 years of goodness, discipline and knowledge St. Thomas High School’s existence is intertwined with the history of Houston. ▪ SEE PAGE 11

Advent calls us to embrace the Father’s love ADVENT, from page 1 almost torn aside; and yet it is no longer a veil for me, it is a wall which reaches right up to the heavens and covers the starry firmament. When I sing of the happiness of heaven and of the eternal possession of God, I feel no joy in this, for I sing simply what I want to believe.” For at least one day this week, try to live in the spirit of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, acting not according to your changing feelings, but rather according to what you want to believe. ST. HILDEGARD OF BINGEN How can we possibly live as Advent stirs us to live? The messiness and anxieties of our everyday lives frequently exert an all-consuming claim over us. Within the grip of life’s contingency, not to mention its banality, how can we live in the security of being divinely loved and so be for others the presence of the living God? Is it simply a matter of dogged spiritual willpower? The writings of St. Hildegard of Bingen crackle with a living awareness of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. For Hildegard, the Holy Spirit is

“This Advent, guided by the wisdom of the women doctors of the Church, let us throw our hearts open to God’s transforming work of love as never before. Our world needs us to do nothing less.” the source of “viriditas,” or greenness -that vitality, freshness, dynamism which makes all life, both physical and spiritual, alive. We glimpse Hildegard’s perception of what it means to be baptized with the Holy Spirit in the closing lines of a letter she wrote to a friend: “May He anoint you with the viridity of the Holy Spirit, and may He work good and holy works in you through that devotion with which true worshipers worship God.” The strength to live confidently as loved sons and daughters of God is not something we muster from our own interior resources. It is what, with our cooperation, the Holy Spirit causes to spring up within us. Take some time this week to notice the creation around you. Seek out any

Saturday, December 6 St. Justin Martyr Parish

13350 Ashford Point Dr., Houston, 77082 Church doors open at 6:30 p.m., concert at 7 p.m.

Our parish musicians will come together to offer some of the great hymns of the Advent season

Theme: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord” Bring the entire family, invite your friends, and be ready to sing along to some of your favorite Advent songs. This year we will present a Multicultural Advent experience as our English, Hispanic, Vietnamese and African communities present music representing Advent traditions from their cultures. No cost to attend; please bring canned/non-perishable food donations for our Social Ministry. Our food pantry is in great need due to the increase in people who need help! Sponsored by the St. Justin Martyr ACTS Community The ACTS Community will provide snacks and drinks in the parish hall before the concert.

St. Justin Martyr

13350 Ashford Point Dr., Houston, 77082

surprising signs of life and hopefulness amongst that which seems dormant and barren. Ask the Holy Spirit to stir such surprising vitality in the dormant and barren areas of your interior life, bringing about new vigor, joy and commitment. ST. TERESA OF AVILA It’s perhaps easy for Catholics to gloss over the description of Jesus in the first chapter of John as one we“do not recognize.” We know Him! We go to Mass every Sunday; we grasp the gist of the Gospels. But Advent challenges us to confront the comfortable presumption that we know the Lord and beckons us to deepen our personal relationship with Him. The Christian spiritual tradition teaches that praying with the Gospels is a singularly effective way of coming to know Jesus more intimately. St. Teresa of Avila has precious wisdom to offer us in this regard. For Teresa, the Gospels are a fruitful context for focusing our attention on Jesus and speaking with Him in faith. She gives us a beautiful demonstration of doing just this when she contemplates keeping Jesus company in the Garden of Gethsemane. She had been writing to her sisters about prayer, but she spontaneously bursts into prayer: “O Lord of the world, my true Spouse! … Are You so in need, my Lord and my Love, that You would want to receive such poor company as mine, for I see by your expression that you have been consoled by me?” Teresa makes the stunning claim here that we can console the Lord in His sufferings. When she teaches us about encountering Jesus in the Gospels, she is not merely suggesting some imaginative exercise or reconstructing in our minds a historical scene. She is talking about encountering a living person. Teresa is alive to the truth that the Gospel episodes are not over and done with, irretrievably in the past. The Jesus who lived then lives now, and all His earthly life is alive in Him; the way He was for the people He encountered in the past is the way He is now for us. So, we can, in fact, be the person touching His cloak, or asking Him for mercy, or pleading for living water or consoling Him. The episodes of the Gospels truly are pathways to deepening our knowledge of the living Jesus. ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA Was Mary’s personal identity eradicated at the Annunciation (Lk 1:2638)? Did her generous “I am the handmaid of the Lord” signal the end of her own life story as she began her life as the Godbearer? On the contrary, with her “yes” to the unfolding of God’s plan, Mary leaned more fully into her unique selfhood. Her witness prompts us to step back and

LEARN MORE

An Advent explainer

Beginning the Church’s liturgical year, Advent (from “ad-venire” in Latin or “to come to”) is the season encompassing the four Sundays (and weekdays) leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs the hearts and minds of the faithful to Christ’s second coming at SCAN TO WATCH the end of time and to the anniversary of Jesus’ birth on Christmas. From the earliest days of the Church, people have been fascinated by Jesus’ promise to come back. But the Scripture readings during Advent say not to waste time with predictions. Advent is not about speculation. The Advent readings call the Church to be alert and ready, not weighted down and distracted by the cares of this world (Lk 21:34-36). Like Lent, the liturgical color for Advent is purple since both are seasons that prepare for great feast days. Advent also includes an element of penance in the sense of preparing, quieting and disciplining hearts for the full joy of Christmas. Ahead of Christmas, parishioners will notice some differences at Mass. For instance, the priest wears violet or purple during Advent, except for the Third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday) when rose may be worn. Aside from what the priest wears, other aesthetic changes in the Church can include a decorated church and altar. The final days of Advent, from Dec. 17 to Dec. 24, the focus moves to preparation for the celebrations of the Nativity of the Lord at Christmas. In particular, the “O” Antiphons are sung during this period and have been by the Church since at least the eighth century. They are a magnificent theology that uses ancient biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming of Christ as the fulfillment not only of Old Testament hopes, but of present ones as well. For more Advent resources to more fully enter into the season, visit www. archgh.org/advent. †

discern the same flourishing at work in our own lives — or at least potentially so. Throughout Advent, we have prayed that our lives may more and more bear the radiant glory of God to others. To See ADVENT, next page

NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

LOCAL

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Pope Leo XIV speaks to local leaders at Jubilee in Rome BY ELIZABETH MORALES Texas Catholic Herald VATICAN CITY — The Jubilee of Synodal Teams and Participating Bodies took place from Oct. 24 to 26 at Vatican City, with some 2,000 members of synodal teams, presbyteral, pastoral and finance councils from around the world, making their Jubilee pilgrimage together during the implementation phase of the Synod. Among the synodal teams present, Jim Barrette, secretariat director for Pastoral and Educational Ministries, and Ricardo Medina, director of Family Life Ministry, represented the synodal team from the Archdiocese. The three-day pilgrimage began Oct. 24, with a session that included a dialogue meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Paul VI Audience Hall in the Vatican. “I think the Church has a voice, and we need to be courageous in raising our voice to change the world and make it a better place,” Pope Leo said at the Oct. 24 session, with Barrette and Medina seated among the international participants. “The Jubilee of Synodal Teams was a very unique opportunity to listen to and share with others engaged in the efforts for developing a more synodal Church,” said Barrette, who worked with Medina and a team of five other Church leaders to write the Archdiocesan synodal synthesis report in 2022. “It was also an opportunity to listen to Pope Leo XIV and to hear firsthand his vision for continuing the efforts for a more synodal Church.” The Archdiocesan report collected information from 385 synodal listening sessions and 502 online contributions, with 83% participation from diocesan parishes, as part of the 2021-2024 Synod of Bishops on Synodality. “Synodality is not only for visioning and planning. One crucial aspect is synodality of reconciliation, the right way we listen to each other as a community to heal our internal wounds and fractures,” Medina said on attending the jubilee. “This is very much needed to address frequent parish tensions we face in many communities.”

ADVENT, from previous page be alive with the divine life means the blossoming of our deepest identity. We become light to the world and more fully ourselves as we let ourselves be loved. St. Catherine of Siena had a vivid insight into the reality that our true self flourishes as we grow in union with God. Her prayer “My Nature is Fire” takes our self-understanding to audacious new depths and profoundly enriches our sense of what our life in Christ offers others. The prayer reads: “In your nature, eternal Godhead, I shall come to know my nature. And what is my nature, boundless love? “It is fire, because you are nothing but a fire of love. And you have given humankind a share in this nature, for by the fire of love you created us. And so with all other people and every

CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA

On Oct. 24, Pope Leo XIV attended a session at the Paul VI Audience Hall that took place during the Jubilee of Synodal Teams and Participating Bodies, which included members of synodal teams, presbyteral councils, pastoral councils and finance councils from around the world, making their jubilee pilgrimage together from Oct. 24 to 26.

Mario Cardinal Grech, secretary general of the Synod, opened the first session and thanked everyone in attendance for their presence and collaboration in the Synod of Bishops. “Faith sees what is, hope sees what will be, and love loves what is,” Cardinal Grech said, reflecting upon the three theological virtues of faith, hope and love, drawing upon “The Portal of the Mystery of Hope” by Charles Péguy, and looking at synodality within the framework of the Jubilee Year. Cardinal Grech emphasized the third virtue of love in the context of synodality, “Love is the virtue that holds us steady when everything else feels uncertain. Love does not wait for perfection to embrace — it chooses to engage with reality as it is, with all its fragility, complexity and beauty ... love is what allows us to hold space for one another, to honor the dignity of every voice and to

created thing; you made them out of love. O eternal Trinity, my sweet love! You, light, give us light. You, wisdom, give us wisdom. You, supreme strength, strengthen us. Today, eternal God, let our cloud be dissipated so that we may perfectly know and follow your Truth in truth, with a free and simple heart. God, come to our assistance! Lord, make haste to help us! Amen.” Advent both reminds us of our transcendent calling and nurtures its fulfillment within us. Throughout this sacred season, we are created into beacons of divine tenderness as the Holy Spirit shapes our lives into Jesus’“yes” to the Father’s love. This Advent, guided by the wisdom of the women doctors of the Church, let us throw our hearts open to God’s transforming work of love as never before. Our world needs us to do nothing less. †

trust that the Spirit is at work even in our disagreements.” Pope Leo attended the second session on Oct. 24, which included seven regional synodal reports from Africa, Oceania, North America, the Council of Eastern Catholic Patriarchs, Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe and Asia that were read by a

regional representative, who also asked Pope Leo one question each. Pope Leo listened and took notes during each presentation and appeared to answer each question without a script. The North American report was given by Canadian Bishop Alain Faubert of Valleyfield, Quebec, who asked about addressing bishops’ and priests’ concerns that synodality may diminish their authority as pastors. Pope Leo answered, “to invite the priests, particularly even more so than the bishops, I think, to somehow open their hearts and take part in these processes. Oftentimes, the resistances come out of fear and lack of knowledge.” The pilgrimage continued with passage through the Holy Doors, workshops and language groups on Saturday, Oct. 25, and closed with Holy Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica presided by Pope Leo on Sunday, Oct. 26. One hundred fifty representatives from the U.S. and 15 U.S. bishops attended the jubilee event. The gathering marked an opportunity for synodal teams and participating bodies to receive spiritual graces during the Holy Year. It also provided a space to exchange experiences, stay attuned within the synodal process, and honor their continued service during the implementation phase of the Synod, which was opened by Pope Francis in November 2024 and will lead to the Ecclesial Assembly in October 2028. To learn more about the Jubilee Year, visit www.archgh.org/jubilee2025. †

You're Invited To St. Thomas High School's

2025 OPEN HOUSE december 7, 1:00 pm 4500 memorial dr.

Visit sths.org/open-house or scan the QR code to RSVP

6 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD LOCAL

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

Catholic assistance ministries step up with continued support Child poverty is particularly severe at 31%, with about a third of children in Houston not having their most basic needs met, economic experts said.

POVERTY, from page 1 cuts for USDA-provided food, previously the most reliable source of protein and produce for partner Houston Food Bank. Cynthia Colbert, CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston, said, “Houston already has the highest poverty rate among the top 10 largest cities in America. The government shutdown also caused many workers to experience temporary poverty — many need help who have never needed it before.” Child poverty is particularly severe at 31%, with about a third of children in Houston not having their most basic needs met, economic experts said. The crisis is attributed to low wages in entrylevel positions and a lack of mid-career salaries to work toward, and immigrant labor in informal economies is now being captured. Other people are feeling the harder economic pinch, like Deacon Charles Pitman, an engineer who was furloughed from a federal government agency when the U.S. government shutdown on Oct. 1. “This gives me more time to serve in Masses (at St. Hyacinth Church in Deer Park) and in ministries, but I’m looking into getting a personal loan from my retirement fund or credit union.” His family is also depending financially on his wife, Pamella Pitman, St. Hyacinth’s director of Liturgy and music, along with a grown son and his wife, both working as store managers, who live with the couple in their Clear Lake home with four school-aged daughters as they save up to

PHOTO BY HOUSTON FOOD BANK

With the Houston Food Bank, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston stepped up as distribution sites for food and rental assistance as poverty reaches new highs. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul and Catholic Charities offered assistance in the wake of the government shutdown.

buy their own home. Deacon Pitman said, “It’s like the good old days with family, but not.” Parishes are helping individuals and families with their Society of St. Vincent de Paul food pantries, but even that organization is experiencing difficulties getting enough donations. Local Society of St. Vincent de Paul executive director Val Senegal said, “Today, I’m asking you to take action. A gift of $100 can fill five food boxes with essentials like bread, tuna, peanut butter, noodles and soups — items that make a difference between

hunger and hope.” Betsy Ballard, communications director for Catholic Charities, also said, “we’re serving more people, but providing less food per family because less food is available. We are participating in our partner, Houston Food Bank’s super sites,

with distribution of food every Saturday in November.” Those needing food assistance must preregister online at www.houstonfoodbank. org, and others can donate there as well or at www.catholiccharities.org/food. In the wake of the government shut down, Catholic Charities also offered emergency rental assistance to federal employees affected by the standstill through its housing support program. Colbert said, “It’s humbling to see increased traffic at our food pantries and a steady but overwhelming number of requests for rental assistance.” She added, “Catholic Charities is blessed that we are able to continue our mission in performing acts of corporal mercy, thanks to generous support from parishes and other donors who join us as people of faith helping people in need.” †

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ADVENT WREATH INSPIRATIONS Advent devotions, including the Advent wreath, remind us of the meaning of the season. Traditionally, Advent wreaths are constructed of a circle of evergreen branches into which four candles are inserted, representing the four weeks of Advent. Ideally, three candles are purple, and one is rose, but white candles can also be used. The purple candles symbolize the prayer, penance, and preparatory sacrifices and good works undertaken at this time. The rose candle is lit on the third Sunday, Gaudete Sunday, when the priest also wears rose vestments at Mass; Gaudete Sunday is the Sunday of rejoicing, because the faithful have arrived at the midpoint of Advent, when their preparation is now half over, and they are close to Christmas. The progressive lighting of the candles symbolizes the expectation and hope surrounding the Lord’s first coming into the world and the anticipation of His second coming to judge the living and the dead. For more Advent resources, visit www.archgh.org/advent. †

LOCAL

NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald 7

Continuing the stewardship that built the Church BY REBECCA TORRELLAS Texas Catholic Herald HOUSTON — Nearly every pastor today is concerned with the need to fund their parish, given the challenging financial environment of recent years. Father Orrin Halepeska, pastor of Holy Rosary Catholic Church and school at Rosenberg and St. Wenceslaus Mission in Beasley, was faced with having to do major renovations at his Rosenberg church. He worked closely with the maintenance office and the development and stewardship office all the way through the process. “Money is a stressor that I never knew I would have to worry about as a pastor,” he said. “The choices that we made, keeping up our church, raising money and building up volunteers to fill the church, are choices that will affect my parish for generations to come.” Father Halepeska said that building a stewardship mindset is essential to the survival of the Catholic faith and all the needs that make that possible. “We are blessed to have so many old campuses that have served the local Church for generations and many need repairs,” he said. “Active folks in the work of the parish understand the needs because they are living and working in the space. Therefore, stewardship enables us to be disciples on a mission to care for the whole community’s needs and hopes that bring all closer to Jesus Christ.” Rhonda Bean, associate director of Development – Stewardship and Planned Giving at the Archdiocese, said the development and stewardship team is available to serve pastors, parishes and Catholic schools. “We offer resources and ideas on virtually every aspect of stewardship — from increasing offertory generosity and meeting annual giving goals to encouraging legacy gifts and explaining best practices for hosting a 5K or a capital campaign,” she said. Bean said their resources integrate a practical concern for the “dollar and cents” reality of parish life with an appreciation for the spiritual dimensions of generosity and faithful stewardship. “Stewardship and fundraising can

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT AND STEWARDSHIP

Father Orrin Halepeska, pastor of Holy Rosary Catholic Church and school at Rosenberg and St. Wenceslaus Mission in Beasley, said that building a stewardship mindset is essential to the survival of the Catholic faith.

be intimidating for pastors, church administrators and volunteers new to the field,” she said. “We are here to help guide you through the process of securing funds for your parish and ministry needs.” WHY STEWARDSHIP Bean said stewardship is important for three reasons. First, because the faithful are disciples of Jesus. “We were made in His image and likeness. As Catholics, we are called to imitate His life,” she said. “We are to be His eyes, ears, and voice to build His kingdom on Earth. As disciples, we are responsible not only for our own lives, but for the lives of others as well.” She said the faithful are called to be generous with the “first fruits” of all their gifts — to give the first and best of everything, not simply what is “leftover.” Second, because “we are all stewards of our gifts.” “Stewardship isn’t for a few, but for all to share. No gift is too small or insignificant. Stewardship is a lifestyle,”

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she said. “It is about putting God first in everything we do. Stewardship is the common thread that links all our parish ministries together for the good of all.” Bean said the third reason is that stewardship is what built the Church, stressing that gratitude and generosity are fundamental to the Catholic faith.

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“It is the generosity of past generations that has built our Church. It is now our turn to continue the good stewardship of our gifts,” she said.“It is our responsibility to pass it on to future generations.” She said that everything the faithful are and have comes from God. “We are not really ‘owners’ of anything; we are merely ‘stewards’ of our Godgiven gifts,” she said. “For some, it is their time, for some, it is their talents, and for some, it is their money.” The words “time, talent, and treasure” are used when describing stewardship, but the gift that God wants the most is the heart of all the faithful. “The whole point of stewardship is to keep us on the path of discipleship, to grow in love with the Holy Trinity and with each other, and to ultimately help each other get to heaven,” she said. Father Halepeska said his parishioners who are good stewards have become essential partners in the mission of the parish and empower others they encounter with the same enthusiasm. “Enthusiasm for what needs to be done, even if it’s scary and very overwhelming,” he said. “Stewardship is our ‘Yes’ and we make up the Church that is able to challenge and bless the world with the message of Jesus.” For more information on starting a church capital campaign, a building project, preparing for an annual stewardship campaign, or just trying to grow a culture of generosity at the church, visit www.archgh.org/stewardship. †

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8 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD LOCAL

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

Healing ministries are sacred encounters, Archbishop Vásquez tells health care workers at White Mass BY JAMES RAMOS Texas Catholic Herald HOUSTON — Some 150 members from a cross-section of the massive health care industries from around the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston gathered for the annual White Mass for Healthcare Communities on Oct. 16 at Holy Rosary Parish in Houston. The color white is a symbol in the Catholic Church of hope and comfort to the ill and hospitalized. The Mass honors those who work in the healing medical professions. The Church’s role in the healing ministry is essential to its identity and mission, said Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez, who celebrated the Mass. Many of the area’s healthcare professionals in attendance serve in the Texas Medical Center, a world-renowned hub that employs more than 120,000 people. The center is comprised of the largest concentration of medical facilities in the world, including the world’s largest children’s hospital and cancer hospital, as well as the 75-plus medical facilities spread throughout the 10-county Archdiocese. More than 10 million patients visit Texas Medical Center institutions each year. These locations are served by Catholic doctors, nurses, students and a host of other health care professionals,

person she served. The late Pope Francis had desired to attend the Jubilee for the Sick and Health Care Workers but was unable to due to his illness that led to his eventual death. Before he died, his homily was read at the early April Mass, which Archbishop Vásquez said reinforced that encounters between the sick and their caregivers are sacred, and that the Church’s healing mission is both spiritual and practical, turning care settings into “holy places.”

PHOTO BY JAMES RAMOS/HERALD

Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez preaches the homily as he celebrates the White Mass for healthcare communities on Oct. 16 at Holy Rosary Parish in Houston. The annual Mass draws healthcare professionals from across the Archdiocese, including those serving in the Catholic Chaplain Corps.

as well as Catholic priests, chaplains and pastoral care workers. INSPIRATION FOR HEALING The Church is called to heal others not just physically, but also spiritually

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and mentally, Archbishop Vásquez said in his homily. He highlighted five figures as inspiration for healing ministries, including Jesus Christ, King Hezekiah from the Old Testament, St. Paul the Apostle, St. Teresa of Calcutta and the late Pope Francis. Throughout His ministry, Archbishop Vásquez said, Jesus was filled with compassion and acts of healing, as seen in the story of the 10 lepers, setting the foundation for the Church’s healing mission. In King Hezekiah, his story demonstrates faith in God’s healing power. When faced with mortality, Hezekiah prays for healing; God responds with compassion, granting him extended life and protection for his city. On his missionary journeys, St. Paul was known for healing the father of his host and many others, demonstrating that the Church’s mission has always included caring for the sick and restoring well-being in body, mind, and spirit. Though not a biblical figure, St. Teresa of Calcutta, Archbishop Vásquez said, is a modern example of Christ-like compassion and care, focusing on the dignity and presence of God in every

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HEALING TODAY Healthcare professionals today are encouraged to continue the Church’s healing tradition by treating not only physical illnesses, but caring for the whole person — spiritually, emotionally and mentally, Archbishop Vásquez said. They are called to show respect, compassion and love to every patient, recognizing the inherent dignity in each individual as being made in God’s image. Archbishop Vásquez expressed deep gratitude to healthcare professionals for their sacrifices, knowledge and special gifts in caring for the sick. He encouraged them to say “yes” to their vocation and reminded them that “more than just treating illness, you are serving a person every time you go to the hospital and enter the room of a sick patient.” Archbishop Vásquez also highlighted the importance of prayer and the Eucharist in strengthening healthcare professionals and said that through these spiritual practices “Christ allows us to see the face of Christ in those entrusted to our care, the sick, the disabled and the dying.” “When we show compassion and care for the afflicted, we touch the suffering body of Christ,” he said. Archbishop Vásquez thanked healthcare professionals for their “sacrifices, commitment, goodness and love,” and prayed that the mother of God would keep them close to Christ. Following the Mass, at a reception and dinner, Dr. Martin J. McCaffrey, a physician specializing in the field of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine and professor of pediatrics at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, spoke about the current ethical issues regarding prenatal diagnoses in the current medical landscape. McCaffrey, a Catholic doctor, is a member of the International Trisomy Alliance Board and serves on the board of directors for Be Not Afraid, a Catholic ministry that offers medical and emotional support to families dealing with difficult diagnoses in their unborn and born children. In the Archdiocese, officials are planning on launching a local chapter of Be Not Afraid in 2026, with plans to support families in the Archdiocese in dealing with prenatal diagnoses, such as genetic abnormalities, including Down syndrome and Trisomy 13 and 18. The Office of Pro-Life Activities, the Catholic Chaplain Corps of the Archdiocese and San José Clinic hosted the White Mass. To learn more about Be Not Afraid, call 713-440-3443. For more information about health care pastoral ministries in the Archdiocese, call 713-747-8445. †

LOCAL

NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

texas catholic herald 9

IN BRIEF

A PILGRIMAGE TO THE CO-CATHEDRAL

Deacons’ wives, widows retreat emphasizes historical contribution of women in the Church

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF AGING

Over 50 seniors gathered for a tour of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston and attended Mass there on Nov. 5, where they heard a high school choir perform.

IN BRIEF

Catholic Charities hosts fall coat drive ends Dec. 12

HOUSTON — Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is collecting new and gently used coats for men, women and children to help families in need for the coming cold winter months. Catholic Charities is accepting donations at three locations through Dec. 12. • Catholic Charities Central Office, located at 2900 Louisiana St. in Houston. • Mamie George Community Center, located at 1111 Collins Rd. in Richmond. • Beacon of Hope Center, located at 4700 Broadway Ave. Suite B-101 in Galveston. Drop-offs are accepted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Catholic Charities, which serves people in Harris, Fort Bend and Galveston counties, is a United Way agency and one of the Archdiocese’s social services groups, founded in 1943. †

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EMBRACING THE JUBILEE YEAR

BY JO ANN ZUÑIGA Herald Correspondent HOUSTON — The Catholic Church could not function without women, Deacon Gerald DuPont told about 30 wives and widows of deacons, who already help with Baptisms, marriages and other sacramental ministries for the Archdiocese at a Nov. 7 retreat at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. He said women’s support is historically demonstrated throughout Scripture, including Jesus’ mother Mary, and Mary Magdalene, who was the first to witness Jesus’ resurrection, followers Joanna, Susanna and many others. Deacon DuPont said even the first person baptized as a Christian in Europe was a woman when St. Paul traveled to Greece and converted Lydia, a wealthy merchant in Philippi, in Acts 16:15. Many other women were heads of

establishing house churches, and St. Paul also wrote about a woman deacon who helped baptize other women. He included husband-and-wife teams evangelizing, such as Andronicus and Junia, as well as Priscilla and Aquila. But as the Church became more institutionalized, DuPont said, women were pushed out of decision-making positions, told not to approach the altar, not to preach nor be ordained as deacons. “The Second Vatican Council in the 1960s changed the system, going full circle from the inclusivity of Jesus’ ministry to clerical hierarchy, and back to clergy facing the congregation, the Holy People of God,” Deacon DuPont said. He added that the current synodal process is continuing to be “the DNA of the Church — we all are sharing experiences, joys and struggles, listening to each other and being guided by the Holy Spirit.” †

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OBITUARIES

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

IN MEMORIA

Roslyn ‘Roz’ Hill

HOUSTON — Roslyn “Roz” Hill, former director of the Development Office at the Archdiocese, died on Oct. 28. She was 78 years old. Hill served in her position at the Archdiocese just days short of 13 years. A funeral Mass was held Nov. 4 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. †

Catherine Dolores Lanicek Shackelford

ENNIS, Texas — Catherine Dolores Lanicek Shackelford, the mother of Father Chris Shackelford, pastor of St. Cyril of Alexandria, died Nov. 11. She was 83 years old. A funeral Mass was held Nov. 14 at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Ennis, Texas. Interment is in St. Joseph Cemetery. †

IN BRIEF ACCW calls for SIM cards, essentials for seafarers Christmas drive

GALVESTON — The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW), in collaboration with the Houston International Seafarers Center and the Stella Maris port ministries of the Archdiocese, is collecting supplies to benefit seafarers reaching ports in the Archdiocese. In 2024, more than 10,000 Christmas boxes — made from shoeboxes or clear plastic containers — from some 164 different organizations were distributed to people from 51 countries working and living at sea across 412 different seagoing vessels. The boxes, wrapped in festive paper, are filled with essential items, treats and small gifts. Chaplains, ship visitors and staff hand-deliver them to ships during the Christmas season. Annually, the ACCW coordinates the large supply drives, which this year culminate with a Dec. 12 Mass, celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Dell’Oro, CRS, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a luncheon. The event gathers boxes and supplies from various ministries, organizations and collection groups. With cruise activity increasing in Galveston and the Port of Houston remaining the Gulf Coast’s largest container port — handling three out of every four containers in the region — the need for support continues to grow. The Port of Houston is also the fifth-largest container port in the U.S. and the largest by tonnage for a single port. Requested items include SIM cards, personal care products such as full-size toiletries, deodorant, disposable razors, lip balm, dental hygiene supplies, hand and foot creams, and fabric bandages. Recreational and comfort items like baseball caps, earbuds, flashlights and batteries, playing cards, new clothing (shirts and socks), and writing supplies are also welcome. The ACCW encourages parishes and groups to host supply drives and packing events. Boxes can be dropped off at the Houston International Seafarers Center, located at 9750 High Level Rd. inside the Houston Port entrance. Donors should arrange a drop-off time by calling the Center at 713-672-0511. For a full list of suggested donations or to access the Amazon wish list, visit www. ghcw.org/seafarer-ministry. †

Pray for the following clergy whose anniversaries of death are during the month of December. Dec. 1, 1940 Dec. 1, 2014 Dec. 1, 1973 Dec. 1, 1987 Dec. 1, 1989 Dec. 1, 2002 Dec. 1, 2007 Dec. 2, 1997 Dec. 2, 2000 Dec. 2, 2005 Dec. 2, 2015 Dec. 3, 1900 Dec. 3, 1911 Dec. 3, 1947 Dec. 3, 1962 Dec. 3, 1963 Dec. 3, 1987 Dec. 3, 1995 Dec. 4, 2008 Dec. 4, 2021 Dec. 5, 1981 Dec. 5, 1998 Dec. 6, 1988 Dec. 6, 2001 Dec. 7, 1880 Dec. 7, 1995 Dec. 8, 1986 Dec. 9, 1943 Dec. 10, 1915 Dec. 10, 1969 Dec. 11, 1909

Rev. Paul F. Nemec Rev. Bernard Mahoney Rev. William Duggan, CSB Msgr. Thomas F. O’Sullivan Msgr. Christopher J. Martin Rev. G. Patrick Dougherty Rev. Albert Walsh Rev. Bernard Doyon, OMI Rev. Doug Smith Rev. John C. Wick, CSB Rev. E. Arthur Roberts, CSB Rev. Peter Berthet Rev. A. Badelon Rev. Douglas A. Moore Rev. George T. Koen Rev. Charles V. Palazzo Rev. John F. McMahon Msgr. Andrew Deslatte Rev. John T. Weyer Rev. Timothy Bucek Rev. Gilbert Kroger, CP Rev. Francis X. Chang-Lei, SJ Rev. James A. Matzinger Rev. Mark Horacek Rev. Louis Chambodut Rev. William Bosworth Msgr. James F. Welsch Rev. Michael Munar, TOR Rev. John M. Haughran Rev. John W. Meyer, CSB Rev. Joseph Legardeur

Dec. 11, 1914 Dec. 11, 1940 Dec. 12, 1927 Dec. 12, 1989 Dec. 12, 2010 Dec. 13, 2002 Dec. 13, 2016 Dec. 19, 1909 Dec. 19, 2009 Dec. 20, 1940 Dec. 21, 1992 Dec. 21, 2021 Dec. 22, 2016 Dec. 23, 1871 Dec. 23, 2021 Dec. 24, 2010 Dec. 25, 1918 Dec. 25, 2016 Dec. 26, 1998 Dec. 26, 2012 Dec. 26, 2017 Dec. 27, 1942 Dec. 28, 1953 Dec. 28, 1991 Dec. 29, 1994 Dec. 30, 1924 Dec. 30, 1934 Dec. 30. 1942 Dec. 30, 1952 Dec. 31, 1870 Dec. 31, 1926

Rev. George Montreuil Msgr. Joseph Pelnar Rev. Peter Litwora Rev. Benigno Gonzalez-Diez Msgr. Francis G. Wearden Rev. Philip R. Elmer, SCJ Rev. Charles Borski, OMI Rev. R. Drohan, CSB Rev. John F. Robbins, CSB Rev. Theodore Drees Msgr. Marcel Notzon Most Rev. George A. Sheltz Rev. Stephen Mandry Rev. Peter Lacour Rev. Albert Gaelens, CSB Msgr. Ralph C. Salazar Rev. J.C. Magnan, OMI Rev. George Hosko, CSB Msgr. Thomas A. Wendland Rev. Eduardo Lopez Rev. Mario Baldero, DS Rev. Kaspar Kaler Rev. John P. Campbell Rev. Emil Furlong Msgr. Bernard J. Roemer Rev. M.J. O’Callahan Rev. Thomas C. Healy Rev. John Leahy Rev. Paul Michalka Rev. Andres Farges Rev. Francis Pridal

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Faithful attend an exhibition featuring displays and information about serving around the world through mission trips after World Mission Sunday Mass at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in The Woodlands on Oct. 19. Every year on World Mission Sunday, Catholics can reflect on the common call to missionary discipleship and support the missionary efforts of the Church in the 1,124 areas that are too young, too poor or persecuted. Learn more about World Mission Sunday online at www.archgh.org/ worldmissionsunday.

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texas catholic herald 11

NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

EDUCATION

A legacy of goodness, discipline and knowledge St. Thomas High School celebrates 125 years

BISHOPS FROM ST. THOMAS HIGH SCHOOL

BY HOLLY BERETTO Herald Correspondent HOUSTON — From the very beginning, the mission was to serve. It’s impossible to tell the story of St. Thomas High School without telling the story of the Basilian Fathers. The order, formed in 1822 in France, became the largest men’s religious order in Texas by the turn of the last century. And like so many religious orders before it, the Basilians would open schools. A small group of them came to Houston in early 1900 and set about establishing St. Thomas College, as the high school was then known, located at Franklin Avenue and Caroline Streets in what was called “The Old Catholic Building.” “When you look at the history of St. Thomas, it’s the history of Houston as it grew,” said Father James Murphy, CSB, vice president of mission at St. Thomas High School. “And to me, Basilian education is rooted in the reality of where we are and wanting the students to have an education grounded in reality, but also hopeful about going out and changing the world.” Four days after the school first opened in September 1900, the Great Storm slammed into Galveston, obliterating the port city and killing more than 6,000. The punishing winds also swept through Houston, causing damage to the new school and leaving its 34-yearold president, Father Nicholas Roche, to contend with repairs. Known for his optimism, he shepherded the faculty and St. Thomas’ 44 students, ages nine to 16, through the challenges. In fact, St. Thomas’ first decades are a series of challenges and triumphs. Roof damage, decaying buildings, navigating a world war and the Great Depression all left their mark. But families kept enrolling their sons, and the tapestry of St. Thomas continued to grow. “I think [Houston] always saw the Basilian teachers living out the truth of their vocation, being dedicated to the hard work of keeping a school open day in, day out, and not asking anything of the community that they haven’t sacrificed themselves,” Father Murphy said. “They knew how to work and knew how to work hard. Because of that, I think they earned the respect of the families because they saw us, day in, day out, doing our best.” Three years after the stock market crash in 1929, St. Thomas had 194 young men enrolled, and it would reduce tuition in light of the hardships many families were facing in the Great Depression. By 1934, the school would encourage families to pay whatever they could, so intent were the Basilians in their mission to educate students regardless of ability to pay. During World War II, the school started a civil air patrol, and, recognizing that many of the school’s students wanted badly to serve their country, St. Thomas instituted a policy that any student who joined up or was drafted would receive his diploma, so long as academic

CLASS OF 1949

Bishop Vincent M. Rizzotto Bishop John E. McCarthy

CLASS OF 1963

Bishop George A. Sheltz

CLASS OF 1967

Bishop Michael Mulvey PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. THOMAS HIGH SCHOOL

requirements were met. In 1948, the school’s booster club, formed two years earlier, raffled off a Buick sedan to raise funds to build a new gym. In its first 30 years, the school moved three times: from the Old Catholic Building to rented floors in the Mercantile Building, to a large space at Austin and Hadley Streets. All would eventually prove inadequate for the growing student body. By the mid-1930s, it stopped accepting students in grades five through eight. In early 1940, St. Thomas broke ground on its current location along Memorial and Shepherd Drive and would officially become St. Thomas High School. The modern vision of the school Houston knows today is owed to Father Thomas P. O’Rourke, CSB. He was the first man from Texas ordained a Basilian. It was his idea to build the school on its current campus, correctly predicting that the city would expand beyond downtown. He worked with boosters and other supporters to find funding for it. He was there at its groundbreaking. By the time St. Thomas High School celebrated its golden anniversary in 1950, it had half a century of grit and determination behind it, and it looked optimistically ahead to mid-century America. Fundamental to this optimism was the school’s expanding alumni base, and the school’s core tenets of goodness, discipline and knowledge. “The school has always encouraged outreach to others in the community,” said John Rynd, the school’s interim president and a third-generation Eagle. “I think goodness is part of the brotherhood inherited at St. Thomas. You learn to accept everybody from different walks of life. St. Thomas has a very diverse enrollment, and I think it’s eye-opening for a lot of people.” The school always drew students from around the city, but as Houston expanded, so did the geographic makeup of St. Thomas, which today counts students from more than 100 ZIP codes, 70% of whom are Catholic. Alumni include several bishops, over 100 priests, a Houston mayor, congressmen,Texas State representatives, FBI director, Texas Secretary of State, prominent lawyers and judges, oilmen and wildcatters, philanthropists, business leaders, restaurant owners, best-selling novelist, Grammy winners, a touring

CLASS OF 1981

Bishop Brendan J. Cahill

A Father-Son dinner is held in the St. Thomas High School gymnasium in 1949.

Broadway actor, NFL and MLB ball players, and one student who went on to win the Indy 500 four times. Rynd recognizes the importance of a Catholic education and how it provides grounding for life. “ I think it’s important that you get rooted in your faith,” he said. “[And that] comes with forgiveness and understanding that none of us is perfect. And we should accept others and try to improve ourselves and others in the eyes of the Lord.” Improvement comes in multiple forms, and St. Thomas has a legacy of honoring the whole person. From its very beginnings, athletics have been an essential element of school life. The Eagles have won more than 107 state championships across their existence in several sports. It has equally celebrated its academics, with debate and other academic teams garnering the spotlight since the 1920s. Traditions like the fatherson banquet and special Masses for mothers and sons, and fathers and sons, connect generations. “ We have the responsibility to help every new generation find the sacred

CLASS OF 1984

Bishop Oscar Cantú around them,” said Murphy. For more information, visit the 125th anniversary website, which includes timelines, images and videos exploring the school through the decades at www. sths.org/125th-anniversary. †

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12 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

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NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

COLUMNISTS A Eucharistic Thanksgiving: Bringing the Mass to your holiday table The word “Eucharist,” derived from the Greek εὐχαριστία, in simple terms, means “thanksgiving and gratitude.” Fittingly, then, there is a special Mass formulary exclusively found in the Roman Missal promulgated by the U.S. bishops. We also have a “Blessing of Food for Thanksgiving Day” in the Book of Blessings. These texts were composed so that, as we celebrate our national holiday, we can turn our eyes towards God, the source of every blessing for which we give thanks. This Mass offers a beautiful opportunity to grow in liturgical understanding and participation. Many parishes offer it on Thanksgiving morning, so check your bulletin or website as evening Masses may be canceled due to lower attendance. Bring your family! Arrive early to meditate on the texts of the Mass. The Entrance Antiphon sets the tone: “Sing and make music to the Lord in your hearts, always

thanking God the Father for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”The Collect prays that God’s infinite goodness may “open our hearts to concern for every man, woman and child,” so we share His by gifts in loving service. ADAM During the prayer over BRILL the offerings, spiritually place your family’s blessings, like your health, home, food, job, etc., on the altar with the bread and wine. Consider asking your priest to use the Church’s “Order of Blessing of Food for Thanksgiving Day” from the Book of Blessings to bless your food. This rite, which can be incorporated into Mass or a separate Word of God celebration, includes intercessions for the Church, the poor, farmers and creation,

“Let the sharing of time and food rooted in your experience of the Eucharist be a time to give thanks.” culminating in a beautiful prayer: “God most provident, we join all creation in raising to you a hymn of thanksgiving through Jesus Christ, your Son...” Perhaps bring a basket of items to Mass, not your whole family feast. Can you imagine if every family brought all their food to the church and then rushed home to get it cooked in time? Also, try asking your priest ahead of time, so he is prepared. It’s a beautiful way to sanctify your meal, even more deeply connecting your faith to your life. At home, try to extend the Liturgy. Before your meal, pray the Collect aloud at grace. Read the Gospel of the 10 lepers and discuss: “How has God healed us this year?” Consider inviting someone

alone to your table, like widows, college students or neighbors. Regardless of their faith, be witnesses to your faith by sharing with those in need. Let the sharing of time and food rooted in your experience of the Eucharist be a time to give thanks. This Thanksgiving, let the Mass shape your day, whether you attend or not. By focusing on gratitude to God, we discover it’s not just a feeling but a way of life. May this deepen your family’s faith and make your holiday truly a holy day. Adam Brill is the director of the Office of Worship.

Staying Woke: Advent, justice and vigilance “Brothers and sisters: You know the time; it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep. For our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed; night is advanced, the day is at hand. Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light” (Rom 13:11-12). The First Sunday of Advent always opens with an urgent call to attention. The second reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Roman Church is a stark reminder that Christians live at a critical time in salvation history. The promised Messiah has come, conquering sin and death through His passion and resurrection. Now, we wait in joyful expectation for His Second Coming, when He will restore all things. While we wait, we are commanded to persist in works of love and mercy, turning away from the numbing effects of sin and temptation. In short, Paul tells Christians, “You know what time it is. Wake up!” Originally coined by African Americans in the 1910s, to be “awakened” meant recognizing and

naming racial prejudice. In the 1960s, Civil Rights leaders tied the term explicitly to scriptural references that spoke about the need to be awakened from the darkness of sin and injustice. Dr. by Martin Luther King’s AMY last Sunday sermon, AUZENNE delivered on March 31, 1968, was titled “Remaining Awake Through a Great Revolution.” In it, he spoke about the need for Christians to remain vigilant to the cause of human dignity in the face of rapid advances in technology and weaponry. Today, “woke” is used as a pejorative to ridicule people and ideologies that are judged (sometimes rightly) to be too extreme in their calls for change. Like many elements of African American culture, it has been co-opted and weaponized; in this case, to demean people who unapologetically advocate

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for human dignity, even those (like the late Pope Francis) who do so squarely within the context of Christian doctrine. That is unfortunate because, in my opinion, the word “woke” communicates a depth of Gospel justice that is powerful and provocative in the best way. Our world is filled with things meant to distract us from truth — convenient lies and comfortable deceptions are literally everywhere, thanks to the constant buzz of social media “news.” To “stay woke” in the scriptural sense demands that we remain fully aware, fully present and fully committed to God’s vision of justice. It means that we must not be caught “sleeping in the job” but instead remain faithful in our service to God as we wait in joyful expectation for Christ’s return. The Advent command to “stay woke”

is the ultimate response to the distractions of this world. In the context of scripture, Christian “wokeness” is an embrace of the profound vigilance rooted in Christ’s message to rebuke sin now; to work for justice now; to love our neighbor now. To be spiritually awake means refusing the comfortable deceptions of sin, embracing the difficult work of Gospel justice, and being fully present to the needs of the marginalized. As we enter this season, let us heed Paul’s urgent cry, casting off the works of darkness and preparing ourselves, fully conscious and morally alert, for the coming of the King who makes all things new. † Amy Auzenne is the director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis.

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First Reading: Is 2:1-5

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 122:1-9

Second Reading: Rom 13:11-14

Gospel: Mt 24:37-44

DECEMBER 7

First Reading: Is 11:1-10

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17

Second Reading: Rom 15:4-9

Gospel: Mt 3:1-12

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ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

Walking with grief during the holidays Loving people in our lives deeply has good news and bad news. The good news is that it is profoundly beautiful, a glimpse of heaven, to love another person. The bad news is that when a person we love deeply dies, it hurts our hearts. Grief is relative to the attachment we have to the person or thing that we lose. Big love, big loss. It’s not that we would change the depth of our love, but loss is difficult. We can celebrate the life of the person we love and hold space for grieving that they are no longer on this side of life, present to us in the way that has been familiar. During this time of year, when the sights and sounds of festive holidays spring up all around us and music proclaims that it is the “Most Wonderful Time of Year,” it can be especially hard to be grieving. If this is your first Christmas without

your loved one, it is understandably difficult to navigate it in a new way. I remember crying all through midnight Mass the first Christmas without my beloved grandmother and finding the comfort of a by sister in Christ who was KRISTINE unknown to me, who KERLIN offered me a hug. Some people feel comfort in maintaining the traditions they’ve always had, and others feel a need to do something entirely different since things are not the same now. If this is an anniversary of a loss, it can also be a very challenging time. We have a beloved family member who died on Christmas Eve, so this season is always imbued with memories of him. The sights and sounds, smells and

traditions of this season can bring up lots of memories and feelings. Remembering our loved ones with rituals can help us grieve and heal: 1. Make a memory box or altar and fill it with pictures, objects and special symbols. 2. Release butterflies or doves. 3. Write a letter about the special events you remember sharing or what you would like your loved one to know about your life now. 4. Visit the cemetery or burial site. 5. Look through photos, scrapbooks and movies of your loved one. 6. Revisit favorite places, listen to a favorite song. 7. Light a special candle in honor of your loved one. 8. Have a special worship service or celebration. 9. Plant a tree or garden in your loved one’s honor.

10. Ask friends or family members to send you a favorite story or memory of your loved one. If you are grieving during the holidays, give yourself space to feel your way through your memories and feelings and whatever comes up inside you. Allow yourself extra time between events and carve out time for quiet. Give yourself permission to change your mind if you begin something or attend an event and then find that it is too uncomfortable or painful to be there. You get to take care of yourself and learn what you need as you go along. And remember — we carry them with us, now and forever, because love is infinite. † Kristine Kerlin is the director of the Office of Aging Ministry.

From Service to Communion: Being a brother to the poor In 2018, I was blessed with the opportunity to visit the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in the Bronx for a “come and see” weekend. One of the defining charisms of their community is poverty — both living in it and serving those who experience it. On the very first day, we were invited to join the friars at a large soup kitchen they host, open to anyone in the city. On that day, over 70 unhoused individuals came, seeking not only a meal but genuine fellowship. I had volunteered at soup kitchens before, but what struck me about this experience was the intentional presence of the friars. They didn’t simply serve food — they sat down and ate with those they served. They shared stories, made jokes and listened. This made the soup kitchen more than a meal line; it became a space of encounter, filled with laughter, conversation and dignity. The meal lasted hours — not from delay, but from shared communion. Father Gregory Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries, captures a

profound truth in Tattoos on the Heart: “Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a covenant between equals.”This insight reminds us that true Christian service rests by on three essential NEIL elements: humility, ALBAÑA solidarity and accompaniment. Humility is the foundation of Christian virtue. It brings us face to face with who we truly are in the eyes of God — infinitely loved, even in our weakness. Embracing this truth allows us to live in freedom, no longer defined by our sins, shortcomings nor achievements, and it compels us to see our neighbors in the same light. This humility shapes our service: We serve not from a place of superiority but from shared humanity. We recognize that we are all beggars before God’s mercy.

Solidarity flows naturally from this. As St. Paul writes, “If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part is honored, all the parts share its joy” (1 Cor 12:26). We are members of the Mystical Body of Christ, and Catholic social teaching reminds us that we are responsible for the good of both the whole and each individual. This responsibility takes shape in our care for our neighbors, our commitment to community, and our pursuit of justice within our sphere of influence — responding to where the Father, through prayer, calls us to serve. And then there is accompaniment. The word itself comes from the Latin cum pane — meaning “with bread.” At its heart, to accompany someone is not only to walk with them, but to share bread — to share life. In the Christian life, accompaniment is more than mere presence or friendship. Its end, its telos, is communion — the giving and receiving of Christ, the Bread of Life. To follow Christ is not to serve from a

distance, but to walk alongside others — especially those on the margins — as equals. The Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry recently started a new program called Frassati Service. We plan to offer opportunities for young adults to serve throughout the year. We had a group of 80 young adults join us for the first event in October, where we served with St. Charles Borromeo’s food and resource drive, led by Dr. Mesias Pedroza. We hope that many more young adults will participate in our future events and continue — in humility, solidarity, and accompaniment — to serve those in need in the great Houston area. For more information or to register for our next service opportunity, go to www.archgh.org/frassatiservice. † Neil Albaña serves as an associate director for the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry.

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NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

WORLD

Pope assures the poor they are loved by God, calls on governments to act VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Before joining hundreds of people for lunch, Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass for the Jubilee of the Poor and prayed that all Christians would share “the love of God, which welcomes, binds up wounds, forgives, consoles and heals.” With thousands of migrants, refugees, unhoused people, the unemployed and members of the trans community present in St. Peter’s Basilica or watching from St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo assured them, “In the midst of persecution, suffering, struggles and oppression in our personal lives and in society, God does not abandon us.” Rather, “He reveals Himself as the one who takes our side,” the pope said in his homily Nov. 16, the Church’s celebration of the World Day of the Poor. Volunteers with Vatican, diocesan and Rome-based Catholic charities joined the people they assist for the Mass. The French charity Fratello organized an international pilgrimage, bringing hundreds of people to Rome for the Mass, visits to the major basilicas of Rome and prayer services. The Vatican said 6,000 people were at Mass in the basilica and another 20,000 people watched on screens from St. Peter’s Square. By the time Pope Leo led the recitation of the Angelus prayer, some 40,000 people were in the square. After the Angelus, as part of the celebration of the 400th anniversary of their foundation, the Vincentian Fathers sponsored and served lunch for the pope and his guests. Members of the Daughters of Charity and volunteers from Vincentian organizations helped serve the meal and handed out 1,500 backpacks filled with

CNS PHOTO

Pope Leo XIV and his guests enjoy their first course, a vegetable lasagna, at a luncheon marking the Jubilee of the Poor Nov. 16 in the Vatican audience hall.

food and hygiene products. The luncheon featured a first course of vegetable lasagna, followed by chicken cutlets and vegetables, and ending with baba, a small Neapolitan cake soaked in syrup. Rolls, fruit, water and soft drinks were also on offer. Before the Mass, Father Tomaž Mavric, superior general of the Vincentians, symbolically gave Pope Leo house keys from the Vincentians’ “13 Houses Campaign.” The name of the project, which has constructed homes for the poor around the world, is an homage to St. Vincent de Paul and his decision in

1643 to use an endowment from French King Louis XIII to build 13 small houses near the Vincentian headquarters in Paris to care for abandoned children. In his homily at the Mass, Pope Leo noted how the Bible is “woven with this golden thread that recounts the story of God, who is always on the side of the little ones, orphans, strangers and widows.” In Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, “God’s closeness reaches the summit of love,” he said. “For this reason, the presence and word of Christ become gladness and jubilee for the poorest, since He came to proclaim the good news to

the poor and to preach the year of the Lord’s favor.” While the pope thanked Catholics who assist the poor, he said he wanted the poor themselves to hear “the irrevocable words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘Dilexi te,’ I have loved you.” “Yes, before our smallness and poverty, God looks at us like no one else and loves us with eternal love,” the pope said, “And His Church, even today, perhaps especially in our time, still wounded by old and new forms of poverty, hopes to be ‘mother of the poor, a place of welcome and justice,’” he said, quoting his exhortation on love for the poor. While there are many forms of poverty — material, moral and spiritual — the thing that cuts across all of them and particularly impacts young people is loneliness, he said. “It challenges us to look at poverty in an integral way, because while it is certainly necessary at times to respond to urgent needs, we also must develop a culture of attention, precisely in order to break down the walls of loneliness,” the pope said. “Let us, then, be attentive to others, to each person, wherever we are, wherever we live.” Poverty is a challenge not only for those who believe in God, he said, calling on “heads of state and the leaders of nations to listen to the cry of the poorest.” “There can be no peace without justice,” Pope Leo said, “and the poor remind us of this in many ways: through migration as well as through their cries, which are often stifled by the myth of well-being and progress that does not take everyone into account, and indeed forgets many individuals, leaving them to their fate.” †

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ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

NATION & STATE

USCCB taps OKC, Texas bishop for new leadership BALTIMORE — The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for its Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, Nov. 10 to 13. Throughout the meeting, the bishops, including Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, (who serves as a member of the USCCB’s Subcommittee on Asian and Pacific Island Affairs and the Committee on International Justice and Peace) and Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop emeritus, had opportunities to spend time in prayer and fraternal dialogue together. As the public session of the plenary began, the bishops sent a message to Pope Leo XIV. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, and president of the USCCB, delivered his final address to the bishops as president of the USCCB, followed by Christophe Cardinal Pierre, the papal nuncio to the U.S., who offered remarks. As one of the first items of business on the plenary agenda, the bishops elected Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, 70, of Oklahoma City as president and Bishop Daniel E. Flores, 46, of Brownsville as vice president to lead the conference. Their terms began immediately at the adjournment of the plenary and run through November 2028. Additionally, Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend was elected as

OSV NEWS PHOTO

A combination photo shows Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, president-elect of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, vice president-elect. They were elected during the Nov. 11 session of the fall general assembly of the USCCB in Baltimore.

the USCCB secretary to fill the vacancy created by Archbishop Coakley’s election as conference president. During their gathering, the body of bishops also elected new chairmen of six standing committees. Executive sessions, which were limited to bishops, included fraternal dialogues and informational sessions on a variety of topics: the

IN BRIEF Eucharist gives strength to scale divisions, ‘makes us one in Christ,’ says Bishop Massa BALTIMORE (OSV News) — As division tears at society, the nation and even the Catholic Church, the Eucharist provides healing and unity, said Auxiliary Bishop James Massa of Brooklyn. “It draws us back to the source. It makes us one in Christ,” said Bishop Massa, speaking in a homily he delivered at a Nov. 12 daily Mass amid the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Fall 2025 Plenary Assembly, which took place Nov. 10 to 13 in Baltimore. The Mass marked the feast of St. Josaphat Kuntsevych, the Ukrainian-born bishop and martyr who labored for Catholic-Orthodox unity, and ultimately paid for that cause with his violent death in 1623 at the hands of an angry mob. “Josaphat believed, and he staked his life on the belief, that between those who love Christ, those who love Christ sincerely, there is no wall so high that charity cannot scale, cannot break open,” said Bishop Massa. The Eucharist “turns us around,” and effects “metanoia,” said Bishop Mass, citing the Greek word in the Gospels that signifies a deep change of mind and heart. “When we stop obsessing over quarrels” and turn again to Jesus, especially in the Eucharist, he said, “then truly we begin to scale those walls that divide.” †

Bishops’ new pro-life chair: Project Rachel ministries ‘key to our pro-life efforts’ BALTIMORE (OSV News) — During the U.S. bishops’ annual fall meeting in Baltimore, Bishop Daniel E. Thomas of Toledo, Ohio, chair of the bishops’ pro-life committee, spoke with OSV News about its priorities and the importance of offering “healing and the tender mercy of God” to those hurt by abortion. He also discussed concerns over the FDA’s recent approval of another generic form of mifepristone — a pill commonly, but not exclusively, used for early abortion. Bishop Thomas said he sees the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities’ role as speaking “as best we can to issues that arise that require a moral voice and issues that arise that require really an effort for ourselves of offering church teaching in a clear and concise and digestible way.” Bishop Thomas said the Project Rachel ministries in each diocese “are a key to our pro-life efforts.” Bishop Thomas also said he found it “surprisingly contradictory” that the Food and Drug Administration would approve a new generic for mifepristone, the second time a Trump administration has done so, when it had promised to conduct a safety review. Bishop Thomas emphasized that overall, “If these things are happening, it doesn’t matter which political party is doing them: We’re going to speak out to the value of life, to the protection of life.” †

ongoing implementation of the synod; best practices to continue the instruction of Laudato si’; the importance of postabortion healing ministry; Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (the bishops’ teaching document on the political responsibility of Catholics); and the apostolate of the laity. In their message to Pope Leo, the bishops assured the pope of their prayers and communion with him. They acknowledged facing a growing worldview that is often at odds with the Gospel mandate to love thy neighbor, but stated: “Holy Father, please know that the bishops of the United States, united in our concern, will continue to stand with migrants and defend everyone’s right to worship free from intimidation.” The topic of immigration and the U.S. government’s recent surge in enforcement actions, which have been prompting anxiety and fear in the communities across the country, was a key point of discussion among the bishops throughout the meeting. Out of their pastoral concern for immigrants and in unison with Pope Leo, the bishops issued a special message. In their vote, the body of bishops overwhelmingly approved the special message, with the body breaking into sustained applause following the vote. The U.S. celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the

Declaration of Independence next year.To mark the American Semiquincentennial, the U.S. bishops voted to consecrate the U.S. to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in June 2026, with 215 votes in favor, eight votes against and seven abstentions to pass this measure. The bishops discussed and voted on a revision of the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services. The revisions address the statement issued by the USCCB’s Committee on Doctrine in 2023 that underscored the role that those involved in the ministry of Catholic health care services have in providing the best medical care, as well as Christ’s compassionate accompaniment to all patients, no matter who they may be or from what condition they may be suffering. The bishops voted 206 in favor, eight votes against, and seven abstentions to pass the action item. Other business items on their agenda included an update from the Subcommittee on the Catechism regarding the Catechetical Accompaniment Process, a report from The Catholic University of America and a report from The Pontifical Mission Societies USA. The USCCB’s 2026 budget was approved 220 in favor, seven votes against, and two abstentions. The bishops also held a consultation on advancing the cause for the beatification and canonization of Reverend Richard M. Thomas, a priest of the Society of Jesus. With 206 votes in favor, four votes against, and one abstention, the bishops affirmed the advancement of the case at the diocesan level. The bishops also received an update on the recently concluded National Eucharistic Revival and were given a report on the impact of the three-year initiative. The report was followed by a vote to approve the Summer of 2029 for the next National Eucharistic Congress with 192 votes in favor, 19 votes against, and seven abstentions. In a presentation during the public session of the plenary, the Catholic Church emphasized the importance it places on understanding artificial intelligence and the ethical implications of AI, particularly in the context of the Church’s life. The bishops were briefed on the topic by Dr. Paul Scherz of the University of Notre Dame. News updates, texts of addresses and presentations, and other materials from the 2025 fall plenary assembly are posted to www.usccb.org/meetings. †

PASTORAL SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF CLERGY SEXUAL ABUSE In a continuing effort to provide pastoral care to victims of sexual abuse by clergy or Church personnel, Archbishop Joe Vásquez would like to remind the faithful of the Archdiocese of the availability of the Victims Assistance Coordinator. Anyone who has been the victim of sexual abuse by clergy or Church personnel is encouraged to call Diane Vines at 713-654-5799. Please keep in daily prayers the healing of victims of abuse and all who suffer in any way.

- USCCB

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texas catholic herald 17

NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

MUNDO CATÓLICO

Los obispos de EEUU le dicen al Papa que seguirán apoyando a los migrantes y defendiendo el derecho a practicar la religión libremente BALTIMORE (OSV News) — En un mensaje dirigido al Papa León XIV al inicio de su asamblea plenaria de otoño en Baltimore, los obispos de Estados Unidos le comunicaron al Papa el 11 de noviembre que “seguirán apoyando a los migrantes y defendiendo el derecho de todos a practicar libremente la religión sin intimidación”. “Como pastores en Estados Unidos, nos enfrentamos a una visión del mundo cada vez más extendida que a menudo entra en conflicto con el mandato evangélico de amar al prójimo”, escribieron.“En ciudades de todo Estados Unidos, nuestros hermanos y hermanas migrantes, muchos de los cuales son católicos, se enfrentan a una cultura del miedo, dudando en salir de sus casas e incluso en asistir a la iglesia por temor a ser acosados o detenidos”. “Santo Padre, sepa que los obispos de Estados Unidos, unidos en nuestra preocupación, seguiremos apoyando a los migrantes y defendiendo el derecho de todos a practicar su culto sin intimidación”, escribieron los obispos. “Apoyamos las fronteras seguras y ordenadas y las medidas policiales en respuesta a actividades delictivas peligrosas, pero no podemos permanecer callados en estos momentos difíciles,

FOTO DE OSV NEWS

Obispos estadounidenses asisten a una sesión de la asamblea general de otoño de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos, celebrada el 11 de noviembre en Baltimore.

mientras se socava el derecho a practicar la religión y el derecho al debido proceso”. Los obispos continuaron, “En nuestra nación, así como en nuestro mundo, nos enfrentamos a tantos desafíos para dar testimonio del Evangelio: la creciente estrechez y el egoísmo del individualismo,

IN BRIEF

el empobrecimiento económico y social, la creciente polarización, la animosidad y la violencia política, la incapacidad de entablar un diálogo civilizado, la falta de generosidad para trabajar juntos y las constantes amenazas a la vida y la dignidad de cada persona humana,

especialmente los pobres, los ancianos y los no nacidos”. “A pesar de estos desafíos, nos animan las virtudes cristianas de la esperanza y la caridad”, escribieron los obispos. “Donde el mundo ve a los demás como un problema o una carga, debemos y seguiremos mostrando que cada persona es amada por Dios y, por lo tanto, merece ser respetada, ya sea en el útero, un forastero, una persona sin hogar, hambrienta, en prisión o moribunda”. Los obispos continuaron, “Como bien sabe, Estados Unidos tiene la gran bendición de contar con parroquias vibrantes, clérigos y religiosos dedicados y muchos fieles laicos, hombres y mujeres, que viven con esperanza y caridad. Con ellos, a nivel personal, nuestras diócesis y nuestras parroquias siguen ayudando a los más necesitados. Su Santidad, le pedimos humildemente que los bendiga a ellos y a toda la Iglesia de nuestro país, para que podamos ser discípulos cada vez más fieles del Señor Jesús y testigos creíbles de su reino”. Los prelados concluyeron diciendo: “Que el Espíritu Santo inspire nuestra asamblea y la labor que tenemos por delante”. El mensaje fue recibido con aplausos por los obispos. †

Varsovia

Obispos de Texas: La orden judicial sobre el DACA ‘socava’ el derecho al trabajo y a mantener a una familia AUSTIN, Texas (OSV News) — Los obispos católicos de Texas emitieron el 4 de noviembre una advertencia sobre los efectos de un plan que se pondrá en marcha próximamente para aplicar una orden de un tribunal federal de apelaciones que supondrá la pérdida de las protecciones del programa de Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia (DACA) para unos 86.000 inmigrantes en el estado. “Se espera de manera inminente una decisión de un tribunal federal que cambiará” la situación de los beneficiarios del DACA en Texas “cuya presencia en nuestro país pasará de ser legal a ilegal”, afirmaron en un comunicado emitido por la Conferencia Católica de Obispos de Texas, con sede en Austin, el brazo de la Iglesia encargado de las políticas públicas en el estado. Conocido comúnmente como DACA, el programa ha sido objeto de una batalla legal de siete años en los tribunales federales desde 2018, con numerosas sentencias, apelaciones y modificaciones de su estatus. El 17 de enero de este año, la Corte de Apelaciones del Quinto Circuito de los Estados Unidos emitió una orden tras revisar una sentencia de la Corte de Distrito de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito Sur de Texas que declaraba ilegal el programa DACA. “Aunque confirmó en gran parte el fallo del tribunal de primera instancia, el Quinto Circuito redujo el fallo para que se aplicara solo a Texas”, según un memorándum del 30 de octubre de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos, que añadió que el fallo “también separó los temas de protección contra la deportación y autorización de empleo. El caso fue devuelto al tribunal de primera instancia para la implementación de la orden del Quinto Circuito, y se espera pronto más orientación del tribunal de distrito”. El caso se devolvió al tribunal inferior para que se aplicara la orden del Quinto Circuito. †

APOYO PASTORAL A VÍCTIMAS DE ABUSO SEXUAL DEL CLERO En un continuo esfuerzo por facilitar atención pastoral a las victimas de abuso sexual del clero o del personal de la Iglesia, el Arzobispo Joe Vásquez gustaría recordar a los fieles de la Arquidiócesis la disponibilidad del Coordinador de Ayuda a Víctimas. Si alguien ha sido victim de abuso sexual del clero o del personal de la Iglesia, se les anima llamar a la Diane Vines al 713-654-5799. Por favor rece por la sanación de las víctimas del abuso y por todos los que sufren de alguna manera.

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Peregrinación De Europa Del Este De 12 Días Polonia

República Checa

Austria

Hungría

Del 14 Al 25 De Junio De 2026

$4,690.00 por persona desde Houston

Incluye: Transporte aéreo de ida y vuelta desde Houston, hoteles de primera clase, ocupación doble, 2 comidas al día - desayuno y cena, visitas turísticas diarias, impuesto de aeropuerto, entradas, propinas para conductores y guías, y recargos por combustible que están sujetos a cambios.

Para más información favor de llamar a: Mike Maltez 713-298-8589 Ana Maltez 713-269-8589

Correo electrónico: mmaltez23@yahoo.com

18 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

WITHIN THE ARTS

Movie Night: Watching Pope Leo’s four favorite films (OSV News) — In the lead-up to Pope Leo XIV’s Nov. 15 meeting with a group of Hollywood actors and directors, the Vatican offered an insight into the American-born pontiff’s cinematic taste by publishing a short list of his favorite films. Despite its brevity, the collection of four movies covers quite a lot of thematic and tonal territory. The quartet starts off with a holiday classic from Tinseltown’s golden age that presents viewers with a ringing affirmation of the value of a life well lived. In somewhat the same vein, it also includes a mostly lighthearted, factbased musical about the formation of a family singing group. But weightier dramas are not neglected. In fact, the catalog is rounded out by the tale of a family tragedy and its emotional fallout, as well as a study of paternal love set against the harrowing cruelty of the Holocaust. Below, in alphabetical order, are capsule reviews of the pictures highlighted by Pope Leo together with their OSV News classifications and, where applicable, their Motion Picture Association ratings.

• “IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE” (1946)

Seasonal favorite about the joys and trials of a good man (James Stewart) who, facing financial ruin on the eve of Christmas, contemplates suicide until his guardian angel (Henry Travers) shows him how meaningful his life has been to those around him. Director Frank Capra’s unabashedly sentimental picture of mainstream American life is bolstered by a superb cast (including Lionel Barrymore as a conniving banker) and a wealth of good feelings about such commonplace virtues

• “ORDINARY PEOPLE” (1980)

OSV NEWS FILE PHOTO FROM MIRAMAX

Giorgio Cantarini (left), Roberto Benigni and Nicoletta Braschi star in “Life Is Beautiful.” The OSV News classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

as hard work and helping one’s neighbor. Young children may find the story’s dark moments unsettling. The OSV News classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association. The 1946 film is available for free on FreeVee and Prime Video.

• “LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL” (1998)

Bittersweet comic fable in which an Italian Jewish bookseller (Roberto Benigni) uses his imagination to convince his little son that their grim existence in a Nazi concentration camp is just an

elaborate contest and that they are sure to win the grand prize. Also co-written and directed by Benigni, the story starts off as a slapstick comedy with the young man courting his future wife, then midway becomes a touchingly human story of a parent’s irrepressible determination to protect his child from terror and misery. Theme of genocide. The OSV News classification is A-II — adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Donald Sutherland and Mary Tyler Moore give fine performances as confused and troubled parents trying to cope with the psychological aftershocks that result when the older of two sons dies in a boating accident and the surviving son (Timothy Hutton) attempts suicide. Directed by Robert Redford, the movie hints that the characters’ complacent and wholly materialistic environment may have contributed to the family’s instability, but these aspects remain underdeveloped. The problems are very real, yet the movie is strangely cool and distanced from them. Due to the heaviness of the theme and some instances of rough language, it’s best for mature viewers. The OSV News classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

• “THE SOUND OF MUSIC” (1965)

Particularly fine screen version of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical about the formative years of the Trapp Family Singers in Austria between the two world wars. Its interesting story, solid cast (headed by Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer), lovely music and intelligent lyrics, colorful scenery and pleasant fantasy will entertain the mind and enliven the spirit. Directed by Robert Wise, the movie has held up over the years as thoroughly refreshing family entertainment. The OSV News classification is A-I — general patronage. The Motion Picture Association rating is G — general audiences. All ages admitted. †

MOVIE RATINGS By OSV News A-I – SUITABLE FOR ALL • Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (G)

archgh.org November 30: First Sunday of Advent December 7: Second Sunday of Advent December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception December 12: Our Lady of Guadalupe December 14: Third Sunday of Advent December 21: Fourth Sunday of Advent

A-II – SUITABLE FOR OLDER CHILDREN • Predator: Badlands (PG-13) • Soul on Fire (PG) • Tron: Ares (PG-13) A-III – ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS • After the Hunt (R) • Anemone (R) • Blue Moon (R) • Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc (R) • John Candy: I Like Me (PG-13) • Nuremberg (PG-13) • Roofman (R)

• Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere (PG-13) • The Smashing Machine (R) • Wicked: For Good (PG) L – LIMITED MATURE AUDIENCE • Bugonia (R) • One Battle After Another (R) • Regretting You (PG-13) O – MORALLY OFFENSIVE • The Carpenter’s Son (R) • The Running Man (R)

▶ For full movie reviews, visit www.osvnews.com/category/reviews

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texas catholic herald 19

NOVEMBER 25, 2025 • ARCHGH.ORG/TCH

AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE For the latest updates about listings in the Around the Archdiocese, contact event organizers and visit www.archgh.org/ata.

DEC. 3

ADORATION HOUR, 7 to 8 p.m., Sacred Heart (507 S Fourth St., Richmond). Adoration Hour on the first Wednesday of the month prays for vocations with Confession and Anointing of the Sick available.

DEC. 5-6

BAZAAR AND LUNCHEON, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mary Queen (606 Cedarwood Dr., Friendswood). Market with 55 exhibitors selling handcrafted specialty items: quilts, paintings, stained glass, jewelry, ceramics, wreaths and gourmet dips. Lunch served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free entry. alicemalek@comcast.net; 281-814-2617.

DEC. 5-7

WOMEN’S RETREAT, Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston). “Faith of Our Fathers: Building a Legacy - One Nation Under God” focuses on exploring spiritual heritage and building a legacy for the future, rooted in faith. Cost: $265/$250 (Senior Discount). holynameretreatcenter.com. ENGAGED COUPLES RETREAT, Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center (430 Bunker Hill Rd., Houston). Father Kingsley Nwoko hosts retreat for engaged couples. Cost: $530 per couple ($265 per person) includes room with private restroom, meals and online preparation. holynameretreatcenter.com.

DEC. 6

CONCERT, 7 p.m., St. Justin Martyr (13350 Ashford Point Dr., Houston). Features parish musicians performing Advent hymns in multicultural Advent concert of English, Hispanic, Vietnamese and African Advent traditions.

DEC. 7

IRISH CONCERT, 2 p.m., University of St. ThomasJones Hall (3910 Yoakum Blvd., Houston). Traditional Irish music, songs and stories with Houston-based Irish musicians. RSVP: irishstudies@stthom.edu.

DEC. 8-9

PARISH MISSION, St. Angela Merici (9009 Sienna Ranch Rd., Missouri City). Parish Advent mission with Vincentian Father Ron Hoye on Dec. 8 and 9. Mass and mission on Dec. 8 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and talk on Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. Father Hoye will also preach at all weekend Masses.

DEC. 9

PRAYER SERVICE, 11 a.m., Mother of Perpetual Help Retreat Center (3417 W Little York Rd., Houston). Marian Servants of the Incarnate Wisdom hosts Marian consecration. info@ marianservantshouston.org; 832-322-4541.

DEC. 12

MASS AND LUNCHEON, 9:30 a.m., St. Mary’s Seminary (9845 Memorial Dr., Houston). Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women hosts annual Advent Mass, celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS, at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon honoring and supporting Archdiocesan port ministries. ghcw.org; ghaccwboard@gmail.com.

DEC. 13

PRESENTATION, 8 a.m. to noon, St. Michael the Archangel (1801 Sage Rd., Houston). Scott Hahn will explore lessons from the life of St. Joseph and the Holy Family. Cost: $20. Registration: bit. ly/scotthahn2025.

DEC. 13-14

CHRISTMAS COOKIE CRAWL, 8 a.m., St. Helen (2209 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland). Catholic Daughters of

the Americas Court #2330 host cookie crawl featuring hundreds of homemade cookies sold by the pound. kaylin.olson@olsonresources. com; 713-875-1463.

DEC. 20

LIVE NATIVITY, 4 to 7 p.m., Sacred Heart (109 N Frazier St., Conroe). Event features a live nativity outside the church on the corner of Frazier St. and FM 2854 with live animals, prayer and music. Childrens activities and light refreshments also available. Free. the99SH@gmail.com.

DEC. 23

SIMBANG GABI CULMINATION MASS, 7 p.m., St. Helen (2209 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland). Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez celebrates Archdiocesan celebration of the Filipino Simbang Gabi novena of Advent Masses.

JAN. 7, 2026

ADORATION HOUR, 7 to 8 p.m., Sacred Heart (507 S Fourth St., Richmond). Adoration Hour on the first Wednesday of the month prays for vocations with Confession and Anointing of the Sick available.

JAN. 13, 2026

HUMAN TRAFFICKING NIGHT OF AWARENESS, 6:30 p.m., Christ the Redeemer (11507 Huffmeister Rd., Houston). Faith-based national non-profit, Street Grace, will present how to recognize warning signs of child sexual abuse and exploitation, report suspicious activity and get involved. Free entry. 281-469-5533; kerry.chu@ ctrcc.com.

JAN. 21, 2026

PRESENTATION AND BABY SUPPLY DRIVE, 9:30 to noon, Mary Queen (606 Cedarwood Dr., Friendswood). The Bay Area Deanery Council of Catholic Women host a baby supply drive (diapers, wipes, toiletries, gift cards) and a presentation by Deacon Scott and Terri Ryan on “The Dignity of Procreation,” which includes discussions on infertility and the Church’s teaching on In vitro Fertilization.” Event includes refreshments and raffle. 713-412-8559.

JAN. 28-31, 2026

GARAGE SALE, St. Ignatius of Loyola (7810 Cypresswood Dr., Spring). Jan. 28: presale 1 to 7 p.m. ($25 admission); Jan. 29 to 30: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (free entry); and Jan 31: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (free entry). Sales of household items and decor, clothing, jewelry, baby items, toys, books, tools and more benefit the St. Ignatius Outreach Ministry. Rain or shine. garagesale@silcc.org.

••• For additional listings, visit WWW.ARCHGH.ORG/ATA

Having an Event? Share it with thousands of print and digital readers. Scan the QR code to fill out the form and send your event to Around the Archdiocese. Learn more at ARCHGH.ORG/ATA.

20 TEXAS CATHOLIC HERALD

ARCHGH.ORG/TCH • NOVEMBER 25, 2025

MILESTONES

Taco tasting raises more than $100,000 for UST student scholarships HOUSTON — The 14th Annual Two Saints and a Taco Tasting featured 10 taco restaurants serving up authentic creations in support of student scholarships at the University of St. Thomas (UST), raising more than $100,000 in the process. From beloved mom-and-pop taquerias to some of Houston’s most recognized restaurant groups, each competitor aimed to claim the coveted “Best Taco” title. Held at St. Arnold Brewing Company, even the host brewery joined the competition with a spicy fried chorizo and potato taco. Three awards were presented at this year’s tasting. The President’s Choice Award, selected by new UST President Sinda Vanderpool, Ph.D., went to Fajita Pete’s beef verde taco, a marinated inside skirt steak with roasted poblanos, sweet onions, chimichurri and avocado crema. “I took my judging very seriously,” said Vanderpool as she presented the award. Representing the Basilian Fathers who founded UST, Father Eduardo Rivera, CSB, presented the Padre’s Choice Award to La Cocina de TJ for their tacos de carnitas served on homemade blue corn tortillas. Finally, the People’s Choice Award,

voted on by the more than 400 guests in attendance, went to La Viva for their “La Piña Fuego” taco of slow-roasted pork infused with citrus flavors, topped with queso fresco and grilled pineapple pico, wrapped in corn tortillas. This widely popular event began as a grassroots idea of the UST Alumni Association Board of Directors. During the years, it has grown into an unofficial reunion for the UST community and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Alumni Association Scholarship Fund. †

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS

People’s Choice Award Winner La Viva celebrate their award for their La Piña Fuego taco (left) at the 14th Annual Two Saints and a Taco Tasting. The award was voted on by the more than 400 guests in attendance.

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