RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC Bishop, Preists of Diocese Recieve COVID-19 Vaccines - Diocese of El Paso
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THE
RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC
Vol. 30, No. 2 Celebrating 30 Years serving the Diocese of El Paso February 2021
Bishop, Preists of Diocese Recieve COVID-19 Vaccines
By Fernie Ceniceros
Editor, Rio Grande Catholic
El Paso county will soon hit its
first milestone of vaccinating 10%
of its population, making it the
first urban county in Texas to hit
the milestone as El Paso struggles
to contain the spread of the Coro-
navirus in El Paso County.
Almost 63,000 El Pasoans
have received with the Pfizer or
Moderna COVID-19 vaccinations
since their initial emergency FDA
approval in December of 2020.
Several Priests over the age of
65 and Bishop Mark Seitz have
received their first dose of the
COVID-19 Vaccination. As of the
writing of this article, 4 of the 5
priests ministering to COVID-19
patients have been fully vaccinat-
ed against the novel coronavirus.
“I am grateful to God that I and
several of our priests have been
able to receive their vaccines,”
Bishop Mark Seitz said. “This
will make us more able to bring
the Sacraments to the sick without
as great a danger of inadvertently
spreading the virus or catching it
ourselves.
We join our hopes with all the
members of our community that
the availability of the vaccine will
mark the beginning of the end of
this terrible Pandemic,” he added.
On the day he received the
vaccine Bishop Seitz also sent
a letter to the CEO of Moderna,
the maker of the vaccine. He
expressed his gratitude for their
work to find a cure for this virus,
but he also urged that in the future
vaccines would be developed that
do not make use of tissues gained El Paso county will soon hit its first milestone of vaccinating 10% of its population, making it the first urban county in Texas to hit the
from the violent and inhuman act milestone as El Paso struggles to contain the spread of the Coronavirus in El Paso County. Photo Courtesy University Medical Center
of abortion.
The Vatican’s Congregation for
the Doctrine of the Faith, con-
Obispo, Sacerdotes Reciben Vacunas de COVID-19
cluded “it is morally acceptable to
receive COVID-19 vaccines that
have used cell lines from aborted
fetuses” in the research and pro-
duction process when “ethically Por Fernie Ceniceros to de escribir este artículo, 4 de El día que recibió la vacuna, el subrayó que el uso “lícito” de
irreproachable” vaccines aren’t Editor, Rio Grande Catholic los 5 sacerdotes que atienden a los obispo Seitz también envió una tales vacunas “no implica ni debe
available to the public. But it pacientes de COVID-19 han sido carta al director general de Mod- implicar en modo alguno que
stressed that the “licit” use of such El condado de El Paso pron- completamente vacunados contra erna, el fabricante de la vacuna. haya un respaldo moral al uso de
vaccines “does not and should not to alcanzará su primer hito de el nuevo coronavirus. Expresó su gratitud por su trabajo líneas celulares procedentes de
in any way imply that there is a vacunar al 10% de su población, “Estoy agradecido a Dios para encontrar una cura para este fetos abortados”, afirmó.
moral endorsement of the use of convirtiéndose en el primer con- porque yo y varios de nuestros virus, pero también instó a que en “Animo a los católicos de
cell lines proceeding from aborted dado urbano de Texas en alcanzar sacerdotes hemos podido reci- el futuro se desarrollen vacunas nuestra diócesis a ser conscientes
fetuses,” it stated. el hito mientras El Paso lucha por bir las vacunas”, dijo el obispo que no utilicen tejidos obtenidos de los orígenes de estas vacunas
“I encourage Catholics in our contener la propagación del Coro- Mark Seitz. “Esto nos hará más del acto violento e inhumano del en lo que respecta al uso de líneas
diocese to be mindful of the ori- navirus en el condado de El Paso. capaces de llevar los sacramentos aborto. celulares procedentes de fetos
gins of these vaccines in regards Casi 63.000 habitantes de El a los enfermos sin tanto peligro La Congregación para la Doc- abortados”, dijo el obispo Seitz.
to the use of cell lines from abort- Paso han recibido con las vacunas de propagar inadvertidamente el trina de la Fe del Vaticano, con- “Animo a todos los católicos de
ed fetuses,” Bishop Seitz said. “I de Pfizer o Moderna COVID-19 virus o de contagiarnos nosotros cluyó que “es moralmente acept- nuestra diócesis a seguir rezando
encourage every Catholic in our desde su aprobación inicial de mismos. able recibir vacunas COVID-19 por el fin del aborto y a rezar para
diocese to continue to pray for an emergencia de la FDA en diciem- Unimos nuestras esperanzas que han utilizado líneas celulares que las empresas farmacéuticas
end to abortion and to pray that bre de 2020. a las de todos los miembros de de fetos abortados” en el proceso cambien la forma de desarrollar
pharmaceutical companies change Varios sacerdotes mayores de nuestra comunidad para que la di- de investigación y producción las vacunas en el uso de líneas
the way vaccines are developed in 65 años y el obispo Mark Seitz sponibilidad de la vacuna marque cuando las vacunas “éticamente celulares de fetos abortados”,
the use of cell lines from aborted han recibido su primera dosis de el principio del fin de esta terrible irreprochables” no están dis- finalizó el obispo Seitz.
fetuses,” Bishop Seitz ended. la vacuna COVID-19. Al momen- pandemia”, añadió. ponibles para el público. Pero
2 - The Rio Grande Catholic Editor’s Column February 2021
Editor’s Note / Nota del Editor
Hello Faithful reader. In 2021, we tributor. This month I am pleased to Hola, fiel seguidor. En 2021, esta- este periódico. Este mes me complace
are celebrating our 30th anniversary welcome back Nancy Ramos, Editor mos celebrando nuestro 30º aniversa- dar la bienvenida a Nancy Ramos, ed-
and as we move into our 30th faithful of the Rio Grande from 2016-2018. rio y al entrar en nuestro 30º año fiel, itora del Río Grande de 2016 a 2018.
year, I have invited your former Thank you Nancy for your faithful he invitado a sus antiguos editores y Gracias Nancy por tu fiel servicio a la
editors and contributors to the Rio service to the people of our diocese. colaboradores del Rio Grande Catho- gente de nuestra diócesis.
Grande Catholic, to join us to give an lic, para que se unan a nosotros para
insight into their time serving you as - Fernie Ceniceros dar una visión de su tiempo sirviendo - Fernie Ceniceros
this newspaper’s editor and con- Editor, Rio Grande Catholic a usted como editor y colaborador de Editor, Rio Grande Catholic
EDITOR’S COLUMN - NANCY RAMOS
Labor of Love
I
t was a Labor of Love and the love of Christ. Being a part an extraordinary curation of For 30 years the RGC has
the popular sentiment “if of the RGC allowed me to bear content. The current RGC staff ensured the Catholic tradi-
you love what you do, you’ll witness to this essential work and communications team have tion, experiences and views of
never work a day in your life.” that unites us. It also allowed broadened their reach and pivot- catholics in our region continue
Those were my first thoughts me to work at being a better ed remarkably into new delivery to be a part of our dialog. The
when asked to write this Catholic. platforms. RGC makes sure that Catholics
month’s Editor’s Column about Today the diocese is celebrat- As Catholics, now more than in this diocese remain visible to
what the Rio Grande Catholic ing Catholic faith digitally and ever, it is important that we history. This newspaper is not
has meant to me and to so many safely. Church volunteers, cate- celebrate and document our just a collection of stories about
over the last 30 years. 2021 chists, candidates, catechumen, labors as wins towards spread- our catholic communities, it is
marks a pearl anniversary for Nancy Ramos ministry and parish staff have ing Christian love. Just as John a tangible chronicled record of
the RGC and I am blessed to be embraced working remotely. 13:35 indicates “This is how all who and what we faithful are
able to celebrate it with you, its was taking place at our parishes Parish priests are telling stories will know that you are my dis- and what we aspire to be. The
readers! and centers. I felt privileged to of their own every Sunday in ciples, if you have love for one RGC is the permanent record
My memories of working on deliver the stories being lived live Facebook homilies. El Paso another”, today’s global com- of what this part of the world
the issues of the Rio Grande out in our diocesan ministries. TV delivers Bishop Seitz into munity is depending on us to will know about us long after
Cathloic every month are some It was an honor to share the our homes weekly. Regardless love our neighbor as we should. we leave. I am grateful the Rio
of the fondest memories I have experiences of our seminarians of pandemic restrictions we find Our human race is facing great Grande Catholic allowed me to
of working at the El Paso Dio- and the journeys of our religious ways to celebrate and contin- adversity but our vibrant com- have my little part in it.
cese. As the Communications sisters. Every RGC news story ue the work of the faithful. munities and parish ministries Happy Anniversary Rio
Director and Editor of the RGC written then and now carries The evolution of the RGC into highlighted monthly in the Rio Grande Catholic and thank you
I had the responsibility of pro- within it the love of so many video storytelling and social Grande Catholic remind us that for continuing to tell our catho-
viding all our readers intimate disciples in our Church com- media from its original news- ours is the Kingdom and sharing lic story.
insight as to what good news munities laboring tirelessly for paper page beginnings has been our faith is our duty.
Un Trabajo De Amor
F
ue un trabajo de amor y
el sentimiento popular “si
amas lo que haces, nunca
trabajarás un día en tu vida”.
Esos fueron mis primeros pens-
amientos cuando me pidieron
que escribiera la Columna del
Editor de este mes sobre lo
que el Rio Grande Catholic ha
significado para mí y para tantos
en los últimos 30 años. El 2021
marca un aniversario de perlas
para el RGC y tengo la bendi-
ción de poder celebrarlo con
ustedes, sus lectores.
Mis recuerdos de trabajar en
los números del Rio Grande
Cathloic cada mes son algunos
de los recuerdos más gratos que
tengo de trabajar en la Diócesis
de El Paso. Como Directora de
Comunicaciones y Editora de la
RGC tenía la responsabilidad de
proporcionar a todos nuestros
lectores una visión íntima de las
buenas noticias que ocurrían en
nuestras parroquias y centros.
Me sentí privilegiada de entre-
gar las historias que se viven en
nuestros ministerios diocesanos.
Fue un honor compartir las los catecúmenos y el personal dinaria curación de contenidos. debido. Nuestra raza humana se Este periódico no es sólo una
experiencias de nuestros semi- del ministerio y de la parro- El personal actual de la RGC enfrenta a una gran adversidad, colección de historias sobre
naristas y los viajes de nuestras quia han adoptado el trabajo a y el equipo de comunicaciones pero nuestras vibrantes comuni- nuestras comunidades católi-
religiosas. Cada noticia de la distancia. Los sacerdotes de las han ampliado su alcance y han dades y ministerios parroquiales cas, es una crónica tangible de
RGC escrita entonces y ahora parroquias cuentan sus pro- pivotado notablemente hacia destacados mensualmente en el quiénes y qué somos los fieles y
lleva dentro el amor de tantos pias historias cada domingo en nuevas plataformas de difusión. Rio Grande Catholic nos recu- qué aspiramos a ser. El RGC es
discípulos de nuestras comu- homilías en directo a través de Como católicos, ahora más erdan que el nuestro es el Reino el registro permanente de lo que
nidades eclesiales que trabajan Facebook. El Paso TV lleva al que nunca, es importante que y que compartir nuestra fe es esta parte del mundo sabrá de
incansablemente por el amor de Obispo Seitz a nuestros hogares celebremos y documentemos nuestro deber. nosotros mucho después de que
Cristo. Formar parte de la RGC cada semana. Independiente- nuestras labores como victo- Durante 30 años la RGC se nos vayamos. Estoy agradecido
me permitió dar testimonio de mente de las restricciones de la rias hacia la difusión del amor ha asegurado de que la tradición de que Rio Grande Catholic me
esta labor esencial que nos une. pandemia, encontramos formas cristiano. Tal y como indica católica, las experiencias y los haya permitido tener mi pequeña
También me permitió trabajar de celebrar y continuar el tra- Juan 13:35 “Así es como todos puntos de vista de los católicos parte en ello.
para ser un mejor católico. bajo de los fieles. La evolución sabrán que sois mis discípu- de nuestra región sigan forman- Feliz Aniversario Rio Grande
Hoy la diócesis celebra la fe de la RGC hacia la narración en los, si os amáis los unos a los do parte de nuestro diálogo. Catholic y gracias por seguir
católica de forma digital y segu- vídeo y los medios sociales des- otros”, la comunidad global La RGC se asegura de que los contando nuestra historia católi-
ra. Los voluntarios de la Iglesia, de sus inicios en la página del de hoy depende de que amem- católicos de esta diócesis sigan ca.
los catequistas, los candidatos, periódico ha sido una extraor- os a nuestro prójimo como es siendo visibles para la historia.
The Rio Grande Catholic Bishop’s Column February 2021 - 3
INSEITZ INTO THE FAITH
The Long (and Fruitful) COVID Lent
T
he New Year 2021 is Church. insights that could be very bene-
progressing quickly and Now with the advent of the ficial to us:
now we find ourselves vaccine we can begin to see the 1. Human beings on this plan-
in its second month, February. light at the end of the tunnel, et are deeply interconnected and
Within weeks, on February but it is also becoming clear that interdependent. Property lines
17th, we will enter our second this virus will continue to be a and borders are useful tools for
COVID Lent. For many of us it concern for a good while into marking off areas of particular
may feel like we have marked the future. However successful responsibility, but they do not
one long Lent since last March we are here in this country in signify the ends of our involve-
when COVID began impact- vaccinating a large percentage ment or concern. Technology,
ing the way we live here in the of the population, other parts of the economy, migration, travel,
Borderland. the world will lag well behind. communications: all of these Bishop Mark J. Seitz
I can certainly identify with That means that the virus will factors bring us closer as a hu-
those feelings. It has been a continue to mutate and threaten man race than ever before. What dertaking that follows the neat calling us to a love that abounds
long year of living in fear of the effectiveness of our vac- St. Paul points out in I Corinthi- confines of a six-week season. beyond the narrow human lim-
unseen pathogens, a long year cines. The battle will continue ans 12 couldn’t be more true to- The truth of life is that suffering itations we tend to place on it.
of anxiety for those who were until the world, poor countries day: “So if one member suffers, is part of it. Frailty and trials And God is inviting us to unite
sick, a long year of mourning as well as wealthy ones, are able all the members suffer with it; if are not temporary or under our ourselves with the One who
our beloved dead, a long year to mount an effective response. one member is honored, all the control. This world is broken turns suffering into longing for
of separation from family and There are many lessons we members rejoice with it.” We and no science, as impressive the Kingdom, defeat into victo-
friends, a long year of very can derive from this experience. need to care for those beyond as it may be; no technology as ry, death into resurrected life!
limited travel, a long year of I certainly believe that God has the comfortable confines of our rapidly advancing as it is, will Let us embrace this time of
financial woes. Many have suf- a way of bringing good out of artificial divisions if we all hope change the basic foundational Lent. God’s best work unfolds
fered with depression and other our struggles. So, if we come to be well. reality that this life is passing when we open our eyes to the
psychological challenges. Many to a clearer understanding of 2. The Pandemic has chal- and, while it continues, it will truth and, by our prayer and
have felt disconnected from God the truths of our life, due to lenged our unconscious illusions involve suffering and trials. penance, unite ourselves with
due to the inaccessibility of the this Pandemic, we will have about life in this world. We have Don’t let these truths discour- Christ in his passage.
Sacraments and their inability gained a great deal from these expected that the penance of age you! For a Christian it is
to participate in the life of the trials. Allow me to suggest two Lent would be a short-term un- really Good News! The Lord is
La Larga (Y Provechosa) Cuaresma De COVID
E
l nuevo año 2021 avan- han sufrido con la depresión y Hay muchas lecciones que nos acercan más que nunca Este mundo está roto y ninguna
za rápidamente y ahora otros problemas psicológicos. podemos extraer de esta expe- como raza humana. Lo que San ciencia, por muy impresionante
nos encontramos en su Muchos se han sentido de- riencia. Ciertamente creo que Pablo señala en I Corintios 12 no que sea; ninguna tecnología, por
segundo mes, febrero. Den- sconectados de Dios debido a la Dios tiene una manera de sacar podría ser más cierto hoy: “Así, muy rápida que sea, cambiará
tro de unas semanas, el 17 de inaccesibilidad de los Sacramen- lo bueno de nuestras luchas. si un miembro sufre, todos los la realidad fundamental de que
febrero, entraremos en nuestra tos y a su incapacidad para par- Por lo tanto, si llegamos a una miembros sufren con él; si un esta vida es pasajera y, mientras
segunda Cuaresma COVID. ticipar en la vida de la Iglesia. comprensión más clara de las miembro es honrado, todos los continúe, implicará sufrimiento
Para muchos de nosotros puede Ahora, con la llegada de la verdades de nuestra vida, debido miembros se alegran con él”. y pruebas.
parecer que hemos marcado una vacuna, podemos empezar a a esta pandemia, habremos Tenemos que cuidar a los que No dejes que estas verdades te
larga Cuaresma desde el pasado ver la luz al final del túnel, pero ganado mucho de estas pruebas. están más allá de los cómodos desanimen. Para un cristiano son
mes de marzo, cuando COVID también está claro que este virus Permítanme sugerir dos puntos confines de nuestras divisiones realmente buenas noticias. El
comenzó a impactar la forma en seguirá siendo una preocupación de vista que podrían ser muy artificiales si esperamos estar Señor nos llama a un amor que
que vivimos aquí en la Frontera. durante un buen tiempo en el beneficiosos para nosotros: todos bien. abunda más allá de las estrechas
Ciertamente puedo identifi- futuro. Por mucho éxito que ten- 1. Los seres humanos de este 2. La pandemia ha desafiado limitaciones humanas que sole-
carme con esos sentimientos. Ha gamos aquí en este país a la hora planeta están profundamente in- nuestras ilusiones inconscientes mos ponerle. Y Dios nos invita a
sido un largo año de vivir con de vacunar a un gran porcentaje terconectados y son interdepen- sobre la vida en este mundo. He- unirnos a Aquel que convierte el
miedo a los patógenos invisibles, de la población, otras partes dientes. Las líneas de propiedad mos esperado que la penitencia sufrimiento en anhelo del Reino,
un largo año de ansiedad para del mundo se quedarán muy y las fronteras son herramientas de la Cuaresma sea una empresa la derrota en victoria, la muerte
los que estaban enfermos, un atrás. Esto significa que el virus útiles para delimitar áreas de a corto plazo que se ajuste a los en vida resucitada.
largo año de luto por nuestros seguirá mutando y amenazando responsabilidad particular, pero pulcros límites de una tempora- Abracemos este tiempo de
queridos muertos, un largo año la eficacia de nuestras vacunas. no significan el fin de nuestra da de seis semanas. La verdad Cuaresma. La mejor obra de
de separación de la familia y los La batalla continuará hasta que participación o preocupación. de la vida es que el sufrimiento Dios se desarrolla cuando abri-
amigos, un largo año de viajes el mundo, tanto los países pobres La tecnología, la economía, la forma parte de ella. La fragilidad mos los ojos a la verdad y, con
muy limitados, un largo año de como los ricos, sean capaces de migración, los viajes, las comu- y las pruebas no son temporales nuestra oración y penitencia, nos
problemas financieros. Muchos montar una respuesta eficaz. nicaciones: todos estos factores ni están bajo nuestro control. unimos a Cristo en su paso.
THE
RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC Celebrating 30 Years serving the Diocese of El Paso
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4 - The Rio Grande Catholic Diocesan News February 2021
Deacon Candidate and EPFD Chaplain Dies from COVID-19
By Fernie Ceniceros missed not only in our diocese but full color guard honors at Mt.
Editor, Rio Grande Catholic also to the greater El Paso Com- Carmel Cemetery on January 20,
munity,” Bishop Seitz said. 2021. His graveside service was
The Diocese of El Paso and the Lt. Flores was administered the broadcast via the El Paso Fire
El Paso Fire Department Mourn- Sacrament of the Anointing of Department’s Facebook page.
ed the loss of Deacon Candidate the Sick prior to his death by Fr. They expressed their deep and
and Retired Fire Department Ivan Montelongo, one of the three profound loss on the El Paso Fire
Chaplain, Ruben Flores as a result priests assigned to the COVID-19 Department’s twitter account.
of COVID-19 in January of 2021. ministry by Bishop Seitz in De- “Today, we bid farewell to
Flores was a parishioner of Mt. cember of 2020. EPFD Lt. And Chaplain Ruben
Carmel Parish and decided to con- “Lt. Flores had a firm faith Flores. May you rest in peace,
tinue helping out as the chaplain in God during his ordeal with sir. We thank you for 25 years of
for the El Paso Fire Department COVID-19, Fr. Ivan Montelongo outstanding service to El Paso and
while 5 years into his studies for said. “I am happy that I was able for being an inspiration to us all.
the permanent diaconate for the to be with him toward the end of May you rest in peace.”
Diocese of El Paso. his journey and that I was able to Since Lt. Flores’ passing, the
“It saddens me to here of the administer the Sacrament of the Diocese of El Paso has lost 2
Deacon Candidate and Retired Fire Department Chaplain, Ruben
loss of one of our deacon can- Anointing of the Sick just before priests along with Lt. Flores to the
Flores died as a result of COVID-19 in January of 2021. Photo by Al
didates, Ruben Flores,” Bishop he passed.” Montelongo said. novel coronavirus.
Baeza, Special to The Rio Grande Catholic.
Mark Seitz said. “He will be truly Lt. Flores was laid to rest with
Candidato a diácono y capellán de la EPFD muere por COVID-19
By Fernie Ceniceros el Sacramento de la Unción de
Editor, Rio Grande Catholic los Enfermos antes de su muerte
por el P. Iván Montelongo, uno
La Diócesis de El Paso y el de los tres sacerdotes asignados
Departamento de Bomberos al ministerio COVID-19 por el
de El Paso están de luto por la Obispo Seitz en diciembre de
pérdida del candidato a diácono 2020.
y capellán retirado del Depar- “El Lt. Flores tenía una fe
tamento de Bomberos, Rubén firme en Dios durante su calvario
Flores, como resultado del con el COVID-19, dijo el P. Iván
COVID-19 en enero de 2021. Montelongo. “Estoy feliz de
Flores era feligrés de la haber podido estar con él hacia
Parroquia del Monte Carmelo y el final de su viaje y de haber
decidió seguir ayudando como podido administrar el Sacramen-
capellán del Departamento de to de la Unción de los Enfermos
Bomberos de El Paso mientras se justo antes de que falleciera”.
duro cinco años de estudio para dijo Montelongo.
el diaconado permanente de la El Lt. Flores fue enterrado con
Diócesis de El Paso. todos los honores de la guardia
“Me entristece la pérdida de de color en el cementerio del
Candidato a diácono y capellán jubilado del Cuerpo de Bomberos, Rubén Flores falleció a consecuencia
uno de nuestros candidatos al Monte Carmelo el 20 de enero
del COVID-19 en enero de 2021. Foto por cortesía del EPFD.
diaconado, Rubén Flores”, dijo el de 2021. Su servicio de sepultura
Obispo Mark Seitz. “Se le echará fue transmitido a través de la
mucho de menos no sólo en página de Facebook del De-
nuestra diócesis, sino también en partamento de Bomberos de El “Hoy despedimos al teniente y vicio excepcional a El Paso y por Teniente Flores, la Diócesis de El
la gran comunidad de El Paso”, Paso. En la cuenta de twitter del capellán del EPFD Rubén Flores. ser una inspiración para todos Paso ha perdido dos sacerdotes
dijo el obispo Seitz. Cuerpo de Bomberos de El Paso Que descanse en paz, señor. Te nosotros. Descanse en paz”. junto con el Teniente Flores por
El Lt. Flores fue administrado expresaron su profunda pérdida. agradecemos por 25 años de ser- Desde el fallecimiento del el nuevo coronavirus.
Diocese offers assistance for victims of sexual abuse
Bishop Mark J. Seitz invites anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse by a priest, deacon, religious, or any
minister of the church, to contact the Victim’s Assitance Coordinator, Mrs. Susan Martinez LCSW, at (915)
872-8465 or the Office of the Chancery, (915) 872-8407. The Church desires the healing of anyone that has been
harmed.
La diócesis ofrece asistencia a las víctimas de abusos sexuales
El Obispo Mark J. Seitz invita a cualquier persona que haya sido víctima de abuso sexual por parte de un
sacerdote, diácono, religioso o cualquier ministro de la iglesia, a contactar a la Coordinadora de Asistencia a las
Víctimas, la Sra. Susan Martínez LCSW, al (915) 872-8465 o a la Oficina de la Cancillería, (915) 872-8407. La
Iglesia desea la curación de cualquiera que haya sido dañado.
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The Rio Grande Catholic Diocesan News February 2021 - 5
Observing Lent in a Time of Pandemic
By Rev. Marcus McFadin, D.Min hands, puts on a face mask and
Director, Office of Worship distributes the ashes to those
who come to him or, if appro-
You are merciful to all, O Lord, priate, he goes to those who are
and despise nothing that you standing in their places. The
have made. Priest takes the ashes and sprin-
You overlook people’s sins, to kles them on the head of each
bring them to repentance, one without saying anything.
and you spare them, for you If you have watched an Ash
are the Lord our God. Wednesday liturgy presided by
(Entrance Antiphon for Ash the popes over the past several
Wednesday, Roman Missal, 3rd years, it is very similar. Also,
edition) Ash Wednesday is not a day of
We will soon begin the annual obligation and no one is obliged
pilgrimage through Lent in to get ashes. It is an outward
which we look to transform symbol, a sacramental. Conver-
ourselves because God is love sion of heart, a renewed relation-
and desire that we live lives that ship with Christ, participation
reflect we are his adopted sons in the Sacrament of Penance,
and daughters. anything that makes us a better
We should think of Lent as a Christian is the importance of
journey, 40 days of conversion Lent.
and renewal, such as the 40 An additional change will be
days of Noah’s flood when evil before Lent, the Memorial of St
drowned and the earth washed Blaise, Feb 3. The traditional
clean. We fast for 40 days just blessing of throats with crossed
like Moses, Elijah and Jesus, candles is also not permitted. The
as they prepared themselves to priest is to follow the alternate
fulfill their missions. We fast for blessing as found in the Book of
40 days to renew ourselves for Blessings. He will simply extend
Christian witness. hands over the assembly at the
Lent is also about baptism. over you? Do you renounce were not under the restrictions of The Priest says the prayer for end of the Prayer of the Faithful
On the First Sunday of Lent, Satan, the author and prince of the pandemic and observed Ash blessing the ashes. He sprin- and proclaim the blessing with-
catechumens preparing for sin? Just those three questions Wednesday as always. This year kles the ashes with holy water, out candles.
Baptism will celebrate the Rite guide us in our Lenten journey to will be different. Less people without saying anything. Then he As the Congregation for Di-
of Election as the enter the final examine our lives and to reflect allowed to attend, and even the addresses all those present and vine Worship and the Committee
phase of preparation to receive upon our faith. It is more than distribution of ashes will be done only once says the formula as it on Divine Worship for the United
the Easter Sacraments. The saying I believe, it is about a life differently. The Congregation appears in the Roman Missal, States Conference of Catholic
Baptized prepare to renew their that witnesses to that profession for Divine Worship and the applying it to all in general: Bishops issue instructions for
Baptismal Promises: Do you of faith. Discipline of the Sacraments has “Repent, and believe in the Holy Week these will be also be
renounce sin, so as to live in the With this in mind I want to issued the following instructions Gospel” or “Remember that you implemented with explanation in
freedom of the children of God? explain how our traditional for the distribution of ashes with- are dust, and to dust you shall the Diocese of El Paso.
Do you renounce the lure of evil, practices will be different this in the context of Mass or the rite return.”
so that sin may have no mastery year. Last Ash Wednesday we found in the Book of Blessing. The Priest then cleanses his
Observar La Cuaresma En Tiempos De Pandemia
Por Rev. Marcus McFadin, D.Min quedó limpia. Ayunamos durante de algo más que decir “creo”, se los presentes y dice una sola vez de la Penitencia, todo lo que nos
Director, Oficina de Alabanza 40 días como Moisés, Elías y trata de una vida que dé testimo- la fórmula tal como aparece en haga ser mejores cristianos es la
Jesús, cuando se preparaban para nio de esa profesión de fe. el Misal Romano, aplicándola a importancia de la Cuaresma.
Tú eres misericordioso con cumplir sus misiones. Ayunamos Con esto en mente, quiero todos en general: “Arrepiéntete y Un cambio adicional será antes
todos, oh Señor durante 40 días para renovarnos explicar cómo nuestras prácticas cree en el Evangelio” o “Recu- de la Cuaresma, la Memoria de
y no desprecias nada de lo que para el testimonio cristiano. tradicionales serán diferentes erda que eres polvo y al polvo San Blas, el 3 de febrero. Tam-
has hecho. La Cuaresma también tiene este año. El pasado Miércoles volverás”. poco se permite la tradicional
Pasas por alto los pecados de que ver con el bautismo. El de Ceniza no estábamos bajo A continuación, el Sacerdote bendición de gargantas con velas
la gente, para llevarlos al arre- primer domingo de Cuaresma, las restricciones de la pandemia se limpia las manos, se pone una cruzadas. El sacerdote seguirá
pentimiento los catecúmenos que se prepa- y observamos el Miércoles de mascarilla y distribuye la ceniza la bendición alternativa que se
y los perdonas, porque eres el ran para el bautismo celebrarán Ceniza como siempre. Este año a los que se acercan a él o, en encuentra en el Libro de Bendi-
Señor nuestro Dios. el Rito de la Elección al entrar será diferente. Se permitirá la su caso, se dirige a los que están ciones. Simplemente extenderá
(Antífona de entrada del Miér- en la fase final de preparación asistencia de menos personas, de pie en su lugar. El Sacerdote las manos sobre la asamblea al
coles de Ceniza, Misal Romano, para recibir los Sacramentos de e incluso la distribución de la toma la ceniza y la esparce sobre final de la Oración de los Fieles
3ª edición) la Pascua. Los bautizados se ceniza se hará de forma difer- la cabeza de cada uno sin decir y proclamará la bendición sin
Pronto comenzaremos la preparan para renovar sus prome- ente. La Congregación para el nada. velas.
peregrinación anual a través de sas bautismales: ¿Renuncias al Culto Divino y la Disciplina de Si ha visto una liturgia del A medida que la Congregación
la Cuaresma en la que buscamos pecado para vivir en la libertad los Sacramentos ha publicado Miércoles de Ceniza presidida para el Culto Divino y el Comité
transformarnos porque Dios es de los hijos de Dios? ¿Renun- las siguientes instrucciones para por los papas en los últimos para el Culto Divino de la Con-
amor y desea que vivamos vidas cias a la atracción del mal, para la distribución de la ceniza en el años, es muy similar. Además, ferencia de Obispos Católicos
que reflejen que somos sus hijos que el pecado no tenga dominio contexto de la Misa o del rito que el Miércoles de Ceniza no es un de los Estados Unidos emitan
e hijas adoptivos. sobre ti? ¿Renuncias a Satanás, se encuentra en el Libro de la día de obligación y nadie está ob- instrucciones para la Semana
Debemos pensar en la Cuares- autor y príncipe del pecado? Sólo Bendición. ligado a recibir la ceniza. Es un Santa, éstas también se imple-
ma como un viaje, 40 días de esas tres preguntas nos guían en El sacerdote reza la oración de símbolo externo, un sacramental. mentarán con una explicación en
conversión y renovación, como nuestro camino cuaresmal para bendición de la ceniza. Rocía las La conversión del corazón, una la Diócesis de El Paso.
los 40 días del diluvio de Noé, examinar nuestra vida y reflex- cenizas con agua bendita, sin de- relación renovada con Cristo, la
cuando el mal se ahogó y la tierra ionar sobre nuestra fe. Se trata cir nada. Luego se dirige a todos participación en el Sacramento
6 - The Rio Grande Catholic Diocesan Migrant and Refuge Services February 2021
Barbara’s Story
By Sandra Ramirez threatened. One of the beatings experience to deliver the baby on Barbara not only feared con- migrants that come to this country
Communications Direcror, DMRS was so bad, Barbara suffered a the dirt floor of a nearby hut. The tracting the virus as she suffers are fleeing misery, crime, violence
miscarriage. She and her husband baby was named at Darien, after from asthma and other health con- and authoritarian governments.
The shortest route for migrants decided they had no choice but to the dangerous wilderness that ditions, but she also feared being I will always be thankful,” said
leaving Cuba trying to reach the leave Cuba. showed no mercy to his mother. deported to her home country. Barbara.
United States is only 90 miles The route Barbara traveled Barbara continued on her “I lived with the constant fear Diocesan Migrant and Refugee
across the Florida Straits, typically took her through the Darien Gap journey and spent some time in that I would be deported to Cuba. Services offers free and low-cost
in boats and rafts. Since the U.S. along the border of Colombia and Mexico before finally reaching Every day I lived with the fear that legal immigration services in El
ended its “wet-foot, dry-foot” Panama. This dense and danger- the U.S. Mexico Border in Ciudad the judge wouldn’t believe me,” Paso, Texas. Our services also in-
policy in 2017, the route many ous area of the jungle is known to Juarez. Barbara and her husband said Barbara. clude Naturalization, Adjustment
asylum seekers choose is an 8,000 asylum seekers as the “Ruta de la entered the United States and DMRS Attorney Marysol of Status, DACA applications,
mile journey through Guyana, Muerta,” or the death route. Bar- were taken into custody by U.S. Castro represented Barbara and services for crime victims, and
Brazil, Colombia and much of bara was joined by a large group Border Patrol agents and placed worked tirelessly until Barbara many more services.
South America to eventually enter of asylum seekers. As they trekked in separate immigration detention was finally released on parole and Contact our office at 915-532-
the U.S. through Mexico. through the jungle during a treach- centers. Barbara’s husband was reunited with her husband and 3975 for questions about your
Barbara is one of the Cubans erous rainstorm, a pregnant wom- released within a few days, while other relatives. immigration situation.
who took this dangerous journey. an from Colombia went into labor. Barbara remained in custody for “I want to thank the association
Barbara spoke out against the Cas- Barbara had worked as a nurse in several months during the height very much for helping me get out
tro Regime in Cuba and as a re- Cuba, and used her education and of the coronavirus pandemic. of the detention center. Many im-
sult, she was beaten, tortured and
La Historia de Barbara
By Sandra Ramirez del régimen de Castro en Cuba Cuba y aprovechó su formación y plena pandemia de coronavirus. que vienes aquí a este país, están
Communications Direcror, DMRS y, como resultado, fue golpeada, experiencia para dar a luz al bebé Bárbara no sólo temía contraer huyendo de la miseria, la dilin-
torturada y amenazada. Una de las en el suelo de tierra de una cabaña el virus, ya que padece asma y cuencia, la violencia y los gobi-
La ruta más corta para los palizas fue tan fuerte que Barbara cercana. El bebé fue bautizado otros problemas de salud, sino que ernos autoritarios. Siempre estaré
migrantes que salen de Cuba y sufrió un aborto. Ella y su marido en Darién, en honor a la selva también temía ser deportada a su my agradecida,” dijo Bárbara.
tratan de llegar a Estados Unidos decidieron que no tenían otra peligrosa que no tuvo piedad de país de origen. Servicios Diocesanos para
es de solo 90 millas a través del opción que abandonar Cuba. su madre. “Vivía con el temor constant Migrantes y Refugiados (DMRS)
Estrecho de Florida, normalmente La ruta que siguió Bárbara Bárbara continuó su viaje y que me regresaran a Cuba. Cada ofrece servicios legales de inmi-
en botes y balsas. Desde que Esta- la llevó a través del Tapón del pasó algún tiempo en México día vivía con el temor de que el gración gratuitos y de bajo costo
dos Unidos puso fin a su política Darién, en la frontera entre antes de llegar finalmente a la juez no me diera el creíble,” dijo en El Paso, Texas. Los servicios
de “pies secos, pies mojados” en Colombia y Panamá. Esta densa frontera con Estados Unidos en Bárbara. también incluyen la Natural-
2017, la ruta que eligen muchos y peligrosa zona de la selva es Ciudad Juárez. Bárbara y su mari- La abogada de DMRS, Marysol ización, el Ajuste de Estatus, las
solicitantes de asilo es un viaje de conocida por los solicitantes de do entraron en Estados Unidos y Castro, representó a Bárbara y solicitudes de DACA, los servicios
8.000 millas a través de Guyana, asilo como la “Ruta de la Muerte”. fueron detenidos por los agentes trabajó incansablemente hasta que para las víctimas del crimen, y
Brasil, Colombia y gran parte de A Bárbara se le unió un numeroso de la Patrulla Fronteriza estadoun- Bárbara fue finalmente liberada muchos más servicios.
Sudamérica para acabar entrando grupo de solicitantes de asilo. idense y puestos en centros de en libertad condicional y se reunió Comuníquese con nuestra
en Estados Unidos a través de Mientras caminaban por la selva detención de inmigrantes sepa- con su marido y otros familiares. oficina al 915-532-3975 si tiene
México. durante una traicionera tormenta, rados. El marido de Bárbara fue “Tengo much que agradecerle preguntas sobre su situación de
Bárbara es una de las cubanas una mujer colombiana embaraza- puesto en libertad a los pocos días, a la asociación que me ayudaron inmigración.
que emprendió este peligroso da se puso de parto. Bárbara había mientras que Bárbara permaneció para poder salir del centro de de-
viaje. Bárbara habló en contra trabajado como enfermera en detenida durante varios meses en tención. Mucho de los migrantes
The Rio Grande Catholic Special Column February 2021 - 7
World Marriage Day 2021
By Deacon Frank Segura my life”.
Director, Mairage and Family Life These past and present months
have truly been a tough and differ-
My wife and I, and our 4 ent challenge. We can always look
children, attended our first World forward and be thankful for every
Marriage Day mass at St. Patrick’s day that we have, seek peace and
Cathedral in February, 1982. At forgiveness at all times. We pray
that time, we had been married 8 for the grace to be kind and loving,
years. We’re going on 47 years especially when challenged. Our
now! hearts are truly broken when we
The excitement was contagious! hear or learn of a precious one that
About 200 couples and their fam- is lost to this virus and we pray and
ilies filled the church, and couples hope for their surviving spouse and
spilled out to the front stairs as families. Our hearts and prayers go
we greeted each other with joyful out to you and yours.
smiles. It felt like we all had a “May the Lord hold all His
secret to wedded bliss, and it was precious ones close to His Sacred
this joy from the Father that over- Heart; may he bless us all and
flowed in our hearts. It was the joy comfort us. Give us the grace ,
of God in our midst, and his holy Lord, to walk ever more closely
presence in our lives! with You.”
During mass, we thanked God This year, we will celebrate
for our marriages and families, World Marriage Day in your honor
and especially thanked God for his through your own parishes, if
love and guidance. At one point, appropriate.
we renewed our wedding vows. World Marriage day mass at St. Patrick Cathedral in February 2019. Photo by Fernie Ceniceros The Marriage and Family Life
Our children watched, witnessed Office will gladly produce a beau-
the celebration with excitement tiful certificate commemorating
too, as they also felt affirmed and your anniversary.
blessed by God for his love and Please call our office to register
blessings in our lives! and sign up at 915-872-8401
God bestows many blessings World Marriage Day is a one man and one woman; and we wedding vows, that special day, fsegura@elpasodiocese.org or
upon us throughout our lives, and celebration of the sacrament of commit before the Lord to lay our even remembered the day she said marriaga@elpasodiocese.org . The
one of the powerful ways he bless- Holy Matrimony, and the graces lives down for our spouse and our “yes”. I remember my promise to certificate will be mailed to you.
es us is through our marriages. In we receive as we learn to live out marriage, as did Jesus as a symbol be true to my wonderful spouse in Paz y Bien…
wedded life, we learn about God’s a sacramental life. It celebrates of His love for the Church (Ephe- good times and in bad, I sickness We thank God for all of you and
gifts of joy, love, forgiveness, char- the Roman Catholic teaching that sians 5:21-33). and in health. I promised to “love your commitment to marriage.
ity and holiness. marriage is a covenant between Of course, we remembered our you and honor you all the days of Peace be with you.
Dia De El Matrimonio Mundial 2021
Por Diacono Frank Segura tal. Celebra la enseñanza católica
Director, Matrimonios y Vida Familiar romana de que el matrimonio es
un pacto entre un hombre y una
Mi esposa y yo, y nuestros 4 mujer; y nos comprometemos ante
hijos, asistimos a nuestra primera el Señor a dar nuestra vida por
misa del Día Mundial del Ma- nuestro cónyuge y nuestro matri-
trimonio en la Catedral de San monio, como lo hizo Jesús como
Patricio en febrero de 1982. En ese símbolo de su amor por la Iglesia
momento, llevábamos 8 años casa- (Efesios 5: 21-33).
dos. ¡Vamos a cumplir 47 años! Por supuesto, recordamos nues-
La emoción fue contagiosa! tros votos matrimoniales, ese día
Aproximadamente 200 parejas y especial, incluso recordamos el día
sus familias llenaron la iglesia, y en que ella dijo “sí”. Recuerdo mi
las parejas se derramaron hacia las promesa de ser fiel a mi maravil-
escaleras delanteras mientras nos loso cónyuge en las buenas y en
saludamos con sonrisas alegres. Se las malas, en la enfermedad y en la
sentía como si todos tuviéramos un salud. Prometí “amarte y honrarte
secreto para la felicidad conyugal, todos los días de mi vida”.
y fue este gozo del Padre lo que se Estos meses pasados y presentes
desbordó en nuestros corazones. han sido realmente un desafío difí-
¡Fue el gozo de Dios en medio de cil y diferente. Siempre podemos
nosotros y su santa presencia en mirar hacia adelante y estar agra-
nuestras vidas! decidos por cada día que tenemos,
Durante la misa, agradecimos a buscar la paz y el perdón en todo que conmemora su aniversario. or marriaga@elpasodiocese.org . Damos gracias a Dios por todos
Dios por nuestros matrimonios y momento. Oramos por la gracia de Llame a nuestra oficina para El certificado le será enviado ustedes y su compromiso con
familias, y especialmente agradeci- ser amables y amorosos, espe- registrarse e inscribirse al 915-872- por correo. el matrimonio. La paz sea con
mos a Dios por su amor y guía. En cialmente cuando se nos desafía. 8401 fsegura@elpasodiocese.org Paz y Bien… vosotros.
un momento, renovamos nuestros Nuestros corazones se rompen
votos matrimoniales. Nuestros realmente cuando escuchamos o
niños vieron, presenciaron la cel- nos enteramos de un ser precioso
ebración con entusiasmo también, que se ha perdido a causa de este
ya que también se sintieron afir- virus y oramos y esperamos por su
mados y bendecidos por Dios por cónyuge y familias sobrevivientes.
su amor y bendiciones en nuestras Nuestros corazones y oraciones
vidas. están con ustedes y los suyos.
Dios nos concede muchas ben- “Que el Señor mantenga a todos
diciones a lo largo de nuestra vida, Sus seres preciosos cerca de Su
y una de las formas poderosas en Sagrado Corazón; que nos bendiga
que nos bendice es a través de a todos y nos consuele. Danos la
nuestros matrimonios. En la vida gracia, Señor, de caminar cada vez
matrimonial, aprendemos sobre más cerca de Ti. ”
los dones de Dios de gozo, amor, Este año, celebraremos el Día
perdón, caridad y santidad. Mundial del Matrimonio en su
El Día Mundial del Matrimonio honor a través de sus propias par-
es una celebración del sacramento roquias, si corresponde.
del Santo Matrimonio y las gracias La Oficina de Matrimonio y
que recibimos a medida que apren- Vida Familiar con mucho gusto
demos a vivir una vida sacramen- producirá un hermoso certificado
8 - The Rio Grande Catholic February 2021
SIDEWALK JESUS
Say What?
As he started to rise, the man of many who spread that mes-
took a deep breath, and said, sage to others. However, it didn’t
“But, Lord, after you mix them stop there because He also called
all together and bake them in a together a group of followers to
hot oven, I just love biscuits.” learn His recipes and to share His
Lifting his head to look around love with others. Jesus sent His
at the people gathered in the followers out two by two, know-
church, he said, “I’m not very ing they were stronger when they
Janet M. Crowe good at doing stuff by myself. worked together, supporting one
All alone, I can’t make this world another as well as helping those
a better place for my children they met along the way.
and grandchildren.” Then he Think of how much greater
Recently, I found a feel-good raised his eyes and continued, good we can do when we work
story circulating on social media “And, Lord, I don’t rightly together with others to help those
that, like so many of these understand why some things hap- who need our talents, our time,
stories, made me chuckle at the pen. I don’t know what it is You our resources. I might be the lard
humor and insight of the story are doing or even what You ex- and you might be the flour, but
and its author. However, the pect from me, but I do know that we still need the buttermilk to
more I reflected on this particular I might be able to do more when make those biscuits.
little tale, the more wisdom and I work together with other folks. This Lent, let’s reach out to
depth I discovered within it. When we follow Your recipe of others – safely, of course – and
The story goes something like loving one another, even praying find ways to work together to
this. A preacher asked one of the for each other, and we take the bring God’s love to those around
elders of the church to lead the time to blend together who we us. To a woman experiencing a
gathering in an opening prayer. are and what we have to give, crisis pregnancy, we might be
The man rose, faced the congre- then we know that You will take the one person who offers her the
gation, and then bowed his head our offerings of love and hard kind word or helping hand she
and simply stated, “Lord, I hate work and bake up something needs that will literally save two
buttermilk.” mighty fine – even better than I can help. Yes, those may be people’s hearts are touched to lives – rescuing the life of her
The people looked at one an- biscuits. Amen.” small actions on my part, but my do the same for others. That one unborn child and saving her from
other in confusion. After a slight Just a cute story? Or maybe a small act of kindness or offer to kind action ripples out to touch a lifetime of grief and regret.
pause, the man firmly declared, little more. help may make a huge difference the lives of numerous others. Join 40 Days for Life this Lent
“Lord, I really hate lard.” Mother Teresa said, “We in the life of the person who Remember, both kindness and by calling Southwest Coalition
Whispers could be heard from cannot all do great things. But receives these small acts of love. grumpiness will ripple outward for Life at 833-388-5433 or
various corners of the church. we can do small things with great Alone, I can do small things with toward others. We just have to contact Guiding Star at 915-544-
The man didn’t seem to hear any love.” great love. choose which behavior we want 9600 for other ways to help out.
of them. His head still bowed, he Alone I can make small chang- Of course, we also must not to promote. I can do small things Share God’s recipe of love with
continued, “And, Lord, I don’t es by the way I treat people, in forget the ripple effect. One with great love that will multiply those who need your help.
much care for plain old flour the assistance I offer to someone smile or kind word spoken outward. Be the buttermilk and create
either.” in need, and by not shying away affects the life of the person who Jesus was one person. His something wonderful.
Now the preacher was wonder- from doing a little bit more each receives it as well as those near- message rippled amongst His
ing how he was going to politely time I see and hear of a way by who witness it. Then those listeners, taking root in the hearts
end these unseemly utterances.
MAKING SENSE OF BIOETHICS
Vaccines and Other Entanglements with Abortion
urging them to discontinue their you carry out. Please understand we engage in on a regular basis, make a difference when it comes
use of abortion-derived cell lines. that as one of your potential such as doing business with the to scaling back the support
If they do so, we should also customers, I am very concerned many companies that donate mechanisms that Planned Parent-
thank them. about these issues. It is my money directly or indirectly to hood and other abortion-minded
We can similarly initiate dis- understanding that alternative, Planned Parenthood, including organizations rely on.
cussions with friends or relatives non-abortion-derived cell sources Nike, Heinz, Energizer, Clorox, As the Vatican emphasized in
who work in research labs about are available or could be made Facebook, JPMorgan Chase, its recent “Note on the Morality
whether their company or uni- available. It is important for all Bank of America, CVS, Walmart, of Using Some Anti-Covid-19
Fr. Tad Pacholczyk versity uses cells derived from of us to show our respect for the Liberty Mutual, Aetna, and hun- Vaccines,” the reception of an
abortions. remains of those children whose dreds of others.” inoculation made from abor-
One of the “silver linings” lives were taken prematurely, To put it another way, each tion-derived cells “does not in
As the new COVID-19 vac- of the COVID-19 pandemic is and one way we can do this is by time we purchase Tostitos/Frito itself constitute a legitimation” of
cines are being rolled out, several that it affords us the opportunity avoiding these cell lines in scien- Lay products, fill our gas tank the practice of abortion. Receiv-
people have told me, “I don’t to raise awareness about these tific research and pharmaceutical with ExxonMobil gas or buy ing the stick of the needle today
want a vaccine with any connec- moral concerns and improve the development. Thank you.” Pepsi products, our contribution does not mean we are somehow
tion to abortion.” way that biomedical research is Archbishop Joseph Naumann, to the continuation of abortion cooperating in an abortion that
This is a valid sentiment that conducted by scientists. Archbishop of Kansas City and is significantly more direct than occurred decades ago and for
most of us would likely echo. At As one bishop I was speaking Chairman of the USCCB Com- when we receive a vaccine man- reasons independent of vaccine
a minimum, it should serve as with reminded me recently: “We mittee on Pro-Life Activities, has ufactured with abortion-derived production.
an important “call to action” for need to teach, educate and con- also prepared a more detailed fetal cell lines. Each of these Each of us has a serious obli-
each of us during the course of front this issue more widely. It’s letter (available at: https://www. large consumer-oriented corpo- gation to witness to the inviola-
this pandemic. Even if we decide everyone’s duty.” Such efforts usccb.org/resources/Letter-to- rations make large financial con- bility of human life. We need to
to get inoculated with a vaccine will help build real momentum FDA-urging-ethical-COVID- tributions to Planned Parenthood, take the time to speak up so that
that was produced using abor- for change. vaccines.pdf) that addresses the which promotes and directly future vaccines and medicines
tion-derived human cell lines — I’m often asked whether sam- need to develop vaccines free of performs the killing of unborn will be developed without any
which for a serious reason and in ple letters are available to help entanglements with abortion. children in the United States and reliance on abortion-derived
the absence of alternatives would with writing to vaccine manufac- While such entanglements in other countries. materials.
not be unethical — we still face a turers who use abortion-derived remain a significant concern, we Widespread corporate col- Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk,
real duty to push back and make cell lines. An example would be: also need to be aware how some lusion in the evil of abortion Ph.D. earned his doctorate in
known our disagreement with the “I am writing in regard to your of our daily activities may have a does not, of course, mitigate the neuroscience from Yale and did
continued use of these cells by COVID-19 vaccine. It is my un- much more direct connection to ethical concerns about using cell post-doctoral work at Harvard.
researchers in the pharmaceutical derstanding that a cell line orig- the abortion industry. lines taken from fetal cadavers to He is a priest of the diocese of
industry and academia. inally derived from an abortion Dr. Melissa Moschella recently produce vaccines. But it is does Fall River, MA, and serves as
We can do this in several ways. is being used in the production observed how getting a vaccine represent another important area the Director of Education at
We can write a letter to the edi- of your vaccine. I am contacting made with the help of an abor- where letter-writing, board- The National Catholic Bioeth-
tor to heighten public awareness, you to request that your com- tion-derived cell line has “less room votes, boycotts, and other ics Center in Philadelphia. See
or contact the pharmaceutical pany stop relying on these cells connection to the ongoing evil focused efforts by stockholders, www.ncbcenter.org and www.
companies that make vaccines, in the pharmaceutical work that of abortion than other actions employees and customers can fathertad.com.
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