RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC - Diocese of El Paso
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THE
RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC
Vol. 31, No. 3 The Official Paper of the Diocese of El Paso March 2022
Archbishop Wester Of Santa Fe Makes $65k Gift To Border Fund
El Paso, TX - The Most Rev.
John C. Wester, the Archbishop
of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe
in New Mexico, has made a
contribution of $65,000 to the
Border Refugee Assistance Fund
to support the needs of vulner-
able people on the move at the
US-Mexico border.
The Border Refugee Assis-
tance Fund is a joint initiative of
the Diocese of El Paso, and the
Hope Border Institute to provide
for the emergency humanitarian
needs of migrants arriving to the
US-Mexico border.
“With hearts full of faith, we
can meet the challenges of forced
migration and transform this
moment into a time of greater
cooperation across borders and
deeper love for our neighbors in
need,” said Bishop Seitz. “I am
so grateful to Archbishop Wester
and the people of the Archdio-
cese of Santa Fe for putting their
faith into action by generously
supporting the Border Refugee
Assistance Fund.”
In addition to making a gift,
Archbishop Wester and Bishop
Seitz joined the Hope Border
Institute in visiting refugees
in Ciudad Juárez for a series
of listening sessions to better
understand the needs of those
who migrate, including persons
returned under TItle 42 and the
recently re-instituted Migrant
Protection Protocols.
“The Catholic Church in the
United States and Mexico has
repeatedly called for an end to
policies that turn our neighbors
back to danger,” said Archbish-
Archbishop John C. Wester, Bishop Mark J. Seitz and Bishop José Guadalupe Torres Campos at the end of a listening session to better under-
op Wester. “At a time when it’s
stand the needs of those who migrate. Photo by Fernie Ceniceros
clearer than ever that only global
solidarity can resolve our world’s
challenges, the work being done
on behalf of vulnerable people on
El Arzobispo Wester De Santa Fe Hace Una Donación Para La Frontera
the move at the border gives me
a reason to hope.”
To date, the Border Refugee
Assistance Fund has delivered El Paso, TX - El Reverendo desafíos de la migración forzada bajo el TItle 42 y los reciente- a los migrantes vulnerables en
over $300,000 in direct aid to John C. Wester, Arzobispo de y transformar este momento en mente reinstituidos Protocolos de Ciudad Juárez, incluyendo apoyo
vulnerable migrants in Ciudad la Arquidiócesis de Santa Fe en un tiempo de mayor cooperación Protección al Migrante. médico de emergencia, servicios
Juárez, including emergency Nuevo México, ha hecho una a través de las fronteras y un “La Iglesia Católica en Estados para mujeres embarazadas y
medical support, services for contribución de 65.000 dólares al amor más profundo por nuestros Unidos y México ha pedido niños, asesoramiento, alimentos
pregnant women and children, Fondo de Asistencia a los Refu- vecinos necesitados”, dijo el repetidamente que se ponga fin y refugio.
counseling, food and shelter. giados de la Frontera para apoyar Obispo Seitz. “Estoy muy agra- a las políticas que devuelven Los interesados en apoyar la
Those interested in supporting las necesidades de las personas decido con el Arzobispo Wester a nuestros vecinos al peligro”, labor del Fondo pueden visitar
the work of the Fund can visit vulnerables que se desplazan en y el pueblo de la Arquidiócesis dijo el Arzobispo Wester. “En un www.hopeborder.org. El Hope
www.hopeborder.org. The Hope la frontera entre Estados Unidos de Santa Fe por poner su fe en momento en que está más claro Border Institute (HOPE) aporta
Border Institute (HOPE) brings y México. acción al apoyar generosamente que nunca que sólo la solidar- la perspectiva de la doctrina
the perspective of Catholic social El Fondo de Asistencia a los el Fondo de Asistencia a los idad global puede resolver los social católica a las realidades
teaching to bear on the reali- Refugiados de la Frontera es una Refugiados de la Frontera”. desafíos de nuestro mundo, el propias de la región fronteriza
ties unique to our US-Mexico iniciativa conjunta del la Dioce- Además de hacer un donativo, trabajo que se está haciendo en entre México y Estados Unidos.
border region. Through a robust sis de El Paso y el Instituto Fron- el Arzobispo Wester y el Obis- nombre de las personas vul- A través de un sólido programa
program of research and policy terizo Esperanza para atender po Seitz se unieron al Instituto nerables en movimiento en la de investigación y trabajo
work, leadership development las necesidades humanitarias de Fronterizo Hope para visitar a los frontera me da una razón para la político, desarrollo de liderazgo
and action, we work to build jus- emergencia de los migrantes que refugiados en Ciudad Juárez en esperanza.” y acción, trabajamos para con-
tice and deepen solidarity across llegan a la frontera entre México una serie de sesiones de escucha Hasta la fecha, el Fondo de struir la justicia y profundizar
the borderlands. y Estados Unidos. para entender mejor las necesi- Ayuda a los Refugiados de la la solidaridad a través de las
“Con los corazones llenos de dades de los que emigran, incluy- Frontera ha entregado más de tierras fronterizas.
fe, podemos hacer frente a los endo a las personas devueltas 300.000 dólares en ayuda directa
2 - The Rio Grande Catholic Editor’s Column March 2022
EDITOR’S COLUMN - FERNIE CENICEROS
A Sign of God’s Love
A
year ago, March 1, My second baby over the last year. Secondly, I didn’t think it any conditions very equally.
wife and I were going The first thing I must share was possible, but a person can This very much has been tested
through what seemed with you all is it’s incredible to love someone more than what at 3 am when it’s my turn to
like one of the most challenging me how quickly we see what seems like life itself. And even bottle feed.
times in our whole lives. My kind of personality a baby will more surprising is how equally So with that being said, I’d
wife was 29 weeks pregnant have. The NICU nurses were the but distinctly you can love your like to take this opportunity to
with our second daughter, Evie. first to point out how laid back kids. When I had Annie, my wish my little Evie a very happy
Chrissy had been hospitalized our little Evie was. One NICU firstborn, I wasn’t sure I would 1st birthday. My wife and I
for the duration of her pregnan- nurse said she was a quiet fight- ever feel that kind of specific decided that we would make her
cy for preeclampsia, and we er. She seldom fussed. One year love for another human being. first birthday party a rainbow
hoped that we could hang on to later, I can very much confirm But along came Evie, and it theme with the intention that
hope and not deliver until Evie that our little Evie is very much was the same thing. When I not only does Evie bring us joy
and my wife had been closer to a quiet little fighter. She had a was growing up, I had a very in many colors, just like God’s
34 weeks along. Fernie Ceniceros lot of catch-up to do, but she’s self-centered view of how my promise to Noah, that the rain-
As many of you may know, always done it with a smile. In parents loved me and constant- bow would always be a sign of
Evie had other plans! She took ment. Many of our faithful read- this, Evie has helped me realize ly compared their love to how His love. Despite the storm, His
her place in our family on ers know this story, of course. that even though things seem they loved my older brother. My love would always prevail. Evie
March 25, 2021. She spent some However, I did want to take this hard, it’s never too hard to smile two kids have most certainly is very much a true embodiment
time in the NICU to help her time to share with you a couple and know that whatever problem dispelled that internal myth. You of God’s love and promise to us.
finish up her breathing develop- of my insights into parenting a I have, it too shall pass. can love your children without
Un Signo Del Amor De Dios
H
ace un año, el 1 de mar- más sorprendente es cómo se
zo, mi esposa y yo es- puede amar a los hijos de forma
tábamos pasando por lo igual pero distinta. Cuando tuve
que parecía uno de los momentos a Annie, mi primogénita, no esta-
más difíciles de toda nuestra ba segura de poder sentir ese tipo
vida. Mi mujer estaba embaraz- de amor específico por otro ser
ada de 29 semanas de nuestra humano. Pero llegó Evie, y fue lo
segunda hija, Evie. Chrissy había mismo. Cuando crecía, tenía una
sido hospitalizada durante todo visión muy egocéntrica de cómo
el embarazo por preeclampsia, y me querían mis padres y compa-
esperábamos poder aferrarnos a raba constantemente su amor con
la esperanza y no dar a luz hasta el de mi hermano mayor. Mis dos
que Evie y mi mujer estuvieran hijos han disipado sin duda ese
más cerca de las 34 semanas. mito interno. Se puede querer a
Como muchos de ustedes los hijos sin condiciones muy por
saben, Evie tenía otros planes. igual. Esto lo he comprobado a
Llegó a nuestra familia el 25 de las 3 de la mañana cuando me
marzo de 2021. Pasó un tiem- toca dar el biberón.
po en la UCIN para ayudarla a Así que, dicho esto, me gus-
terminar su desarrollo respira- taría aprovechar esta oportunidad
torio. Muchos de nuestros fieles para desear a mi pequeña Evie
lectores conocen esta historia, un muy feliz primer cumpleaños.
por supuesto. Sin embargo, Mi esposa y yo decidimos que
quería aprovechar este momento Mi hija Evie poco antes de su primer cumpleaños hace un par de días. Foto por Fernie Ceniceros. Mija su primera fiesta de cumpleaños
para compartir con ustedes un cumple su primer cumpleaños el dia del 25 de Marzo. Foto por Fernie Ceniceros fuera con el tema del arco iris,
par de mis reflexiones sobre la con la intención de que no
crianza de un segundo bebé en el sólo Evie nos traiga alegría en
último año. muchos colores, sino que, al
Lo primero que debo compar- igual que la promesa de Dios
tir con todos vosotros es que me a Noé, el arco iris sea siempre
resulta increíble lo rápido que Una enfermera de la UCIN dijo que ponerse al día, pero siempre y saber que cualquier problema una señal de Su amor. A pesar
vemos el tipo de personalidad que era una luchadora tranquila. lo ha hecho con una sonrisa. En que tenga, también pasará. de la tormenta, su amor siempre
que tendrá un bebé. Las enfer- Rara vez se quejaba. Un año este sentido, Evie me ha ayudado En segundo lugar, no creía que prevalecería. Evie es una ver-
meras de la UCIN fueron las después, puedo confirmar que a darme cuenta de que, aunque fuera posible, pero una persona dadera encarnación del amor y la
primeras en señalar lo relajada nuestra pequeña Evie es una las cosas parezcan difíciles, nun- puede amar a alguien más de lo promesa de Dios para nosotros.
que era nuestra pequeña Evie. luchadora tranquila. Ha tenido ca es demasiado difícil sonreír que parece la vida misma. Y aún
THE
RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC Celebrating 31 Years serving the Diocese of El Paso
499 St. Matthews St. THE RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC (ISSN#1079-9621) is published monthly for $12.00 per year
El Paso, TX 79907 by the Office of Communications, Diocese of El Paso, 499 St. Matthews St., El Paso, TX
Phone: (915) 872-8414
Fax: (915) 872-8435 79907, Phone: (915) 872-8414, Fax: (915) 872-8435. “PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT
EL PASO TX.” POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to: THE RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC,
Publisher: Most Rev. Mark J. Seitz, D.D.
499 St. Matthews St., El Paso TX, 79907
Twitter: @BishopSeitz
Editor: Fernie Ceniceros THE RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC is a monthly newspaper assisting the Bishop of the Diocese
Twitter: @FCenicerosphoto of El Paso by communicating the events and themes of the faith life of the local and univer-
sal church through news reports, features, columns and photographs. Articles and photo-
Advertising Manager: Christopher Velasquez graphs become the property of THE RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC. If photos are on loan to the
newspaper, please enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope for their return.
Spanish Translation: Fernie Ceniceros Printer - PDX Printing.
Contributors: Janet M. Crowe,
Fr. Wilson Cuevas, Rev. Michael Lewis, STL
www.elpasodiocese.org
© 2022 by
THE RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC
All rights reserved @DioceseofElPaso @ElPasoDiocese @ElPasoDiocese
The Rio Grande Catholic Bishop’s Column March 2022 - 3
INSEITZ INTO THE FAITH
Lent: A Time to Open Ourselves to God’s Plan
H
ere we are entering us from allowing the Lord to rose, while keeping every petal
March and in El Paso unfold his plan for our lives. intact. It wasn’t long before he
the signs of Spring will Here is a story I came across realized that the task was im-
soon be all around us. I don’t that may be helpful: possible. Noticing the younger
mean just the strong winds Unfolding the Rosebud priest’s inability to unfold the
moving the dust around, but the A young, new priest was rosebud while keeping it intact,
renewal of life as temperatures walking with an older, more sea- the older priest began to recite
warm up, rains water the earth soned priest in the garden one the following poem.
and our plants come to life. This day and feeling a bit insecure
year Lent begins on the second about what God had for him to UNFOLDING THE ROSEBUD
of March with our celebration of do, he was inquiring of the older It is only a tiny rosebud,
Ash Wednesday. Interestingly, priest. The older priest walked A flower of God’s design; Bishop Mark J. Seitz
the word Lent is an old English up to a rosebush and handed the But I cannot unfold the petals
word that means, “Spring”. young priest a rosebud and told With these clumsy hands of wisdom I’ll trust Him to unfold the
God has some work he would him to open it without tearing mine. To unfold this life of mine? moments, Just as He unfolds
like to do in us in these 40+ off any petals. The secret of unfolding So I’ll trust in Him for His the rose.
days! Lent isn’t only about pen- The young priest looked in flowers leading
ance, although that is an essen- disbelief at the older priest and Is not known to such as I. Each moment of every day. This would be a wonderful
tial element. It is a time to draw was trying to figure out what a GOD opens this flower so I will look to him for His Lent if we could arrive at Easter
closer in prayer, reflection and rosebud could possibly have to sweetly, guidance truly ready to trust God and ful-
service. God wants to free us do with his wanting to know the In my hands it will fade and Each step of the pilgrim way. ly cooperate as he unfolds His
from attachments, especially the will of God for his life and for die. The pathway that lies before good plan for our lives.
sinful attachments, that would his ministry. Because of his high If I cannot unfold a rosebud, me, Have a Happy Lent!
keep us from really entrusting respect for the older priest, he This flower of GOD’s design, Only my Heavenly Father
ourselves to him, that prevent proceeded to try to unfold the Then how can I think I have knows.
La Cuaresma: Un Tiempo Para Abrirnos Al Plan De Dios
E
stamos entrando en marzo
y en El Paso los signos de
la primavera pronto es-
tarán a nuestro alrededor. No me
refiero sólo a los fuertes vientos
que mueven el polvo, sino a la
renovación de la vida a medida
que las temperaturas se calien-
tan, las lluvias riegan la tierra
y nuestras plantas cobran vida.
Este año la Cuaresma comienza
el 2 de marzo con la celebración
del Miércoles de Ceniza. Curio-
samente, la palabra Cuaresma es
una antigua palabra inglesa que
significa “Primavera”.
¡Dios tiene un trabajo que le
gustaría hacer en nosotros en
estos más de 40 días! La Cuares-
ma no es sólo una penitencia,
aunque es un elemento esencial.
Es un tiempo para acercarse en la
oración, la reflexión y el servicio.
Dios quiere liberarnos de los
apegos, sobre todo de los apegos
pecaminosos, que nos impiden
confiarnos realmente a él, que
nos impiden dejar que el Señor
despliegue su plan para nuestras
vidas.
He aquí una historia que he
encontrado y que puede ser útil: de entender qué podía tener que En mis manos se desvanecerá Sólo mi Padre Celestial lo
Desplegando el capullo de rosa ver un capullo de rosa con su DESPLEGANDO EL CAPUL- y morirá. conoce.
Un joven y nuevo sacerdote deseo de conocer la voluntad de LO DE ROSA Si no puedo desplegar un Confiaré en Él para desplegar
caminaba un día por el jardín con Dios para su vida y su ministerio. Es sólo un pequeño capullo capullo de rosa, los momentos, Así como Él
un sacerdote mayor y más exper- Debido a su gran respeto por el de rosa, Esta flor diseñada por Dios, despliega la rosa.
imentado, y sintiéndose un poco anciano sacerdote, procedió a tra- Una flor diseñada por Dios; Entonces, ¿cómo puedo pensar
inseguro sobre lo que Dios tenía tar de desdoblar la rosa, mante- Pero no puedo desplegar los que tengo sabiduría Esta sería una Cuaresma mar-
para él, le preguntó al sacerdote niendo todos los pétalos intactos. pétalos Para desplegar esta vida mía? avillosa si pudiéramos llegar a
mayor. El sacerdote mayor se No tardó en darse cuenta de que Con estas torpes manos mías. Así que confiaré en Él para que la Pascua realmente dispuestos a
acercó a un rosal y le dio al joven la tarea era imposible. Al notar El secreto de desplegar las me guíe confiar en Dios y a cooperar ple-
sacerdote un capullo de rosa y le la incapacidad del sacerdote más flores Cada momento de cada día. namente mientras Él despliega su
dijo que lo abriera sin arrancar joven para desdoblar el capullo No es conocido por alguien Buscaré en Él Su guía buen plan para nuestras vidas.
ningún pétalo. de la rosa manteniéndolo intacto, como yo. Cada paso del camino pere- ¡Que tengas una feliz Cuares-
El joven sacerdote miró con el sacerdote mayor comenzó a Dios abre esta flor tan dulce- grino ma!
incredulidad al anciano y trató recitar el siguiente poema. mente, El camino que está ante mí,
4 - The Rio Grande Catholic Diocesan News March 2022
Annual Mass Of Atonement To Be Held In March
By Susan Martinez
Victim’s Assistance Coordinator
Bishop Mark Seitz will cel-
ebrate the fifth annual Mass of
Atonement and Hope on Sun-
day, March 27 at 3:00 pm in St.
Patrick’s Cathedral. The Mass of
Atonement and Hope was initial-
ly offered for all the victims of
sexual abuse by clergy. It was an
acknowledgement that in the past
the Church’s response to reports
of sexual abuse by members of
the clergy and other religious
communities was often lacking,
inappropriate, or nonexistent.
Recognizing that the sexual
abuse exists in all areas of soci-
ety, Bishop Seitz has chosen to
offer this mass for all victims of
sexual abuse by any perpetrator.
It is hoped that the Mass
of Atonement and Hope will
be a source of healing for the
victims and will demonstrate Bishop Mark Seitz prays during the atonement mass at St. Pius X Parish in 2019. Bishop Seitz will celebrate the fifth annual Mass of Atone-
the Church’s concern for their ment and Hope on Sunday, March 27 at 3:00 pm in St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Photo by Fernie Ceniceros
well-being. At times, experi-
encing sexual abuse may cause
the victim to become separated
from his/her faith in God and his
Church. The Mass is a reminder those who provide assistance Mass of Atonement and Hope. Martinez, Victims Assistance parish, please contact your Parish
to the victims that they have a and support to victims, and any We hope to see you there. Coordinator for the Diocese of El Safe Environment Coordinator or
place where they belong and others who feel that the issue of If you have been a victim of Paso, at 872-8465 Diana Bulko, Safe Environment
where they can experience God’s sexual abuse is of great impor- sexual abuse by a member of If you wish to participate in Coordinator for the Diocese of El
love and healing. tance are invited to attend the the clergy, please contact Susan ministry or as a volunteer in your Paso, at 872-8427.
All victims, family members,
La Misa De Penitencia Se Celebrará En Marzo
Por Susan Martínez de que en el pasado la respuesta Se espera que la Misa de Expi- Todas las víctimas, los muníquese con Susan Martínez,
Coordinadora de Asistencia a Víctimas de la Iglesia a las denuncias de ación y Esperanza sea una fuente miembros de la familia, los que Coordinadora de Asistencia a las
abusos sexuales por parte de de sanación para las víctimas y proporcionan asistencia y apoyo Víctimas de la Diócesis de El
El Obispo Mark Seitz cel- miembros del clero y de otras demuestre la preocupación de la a las víctimas, y cualquier otra Paso, al 872-8465
ebrará la quinta Misa anual comunidades religiosas fue a Iglesia por su bienestar. A veces, persona que sienta que el tema Si desea participar en el min-
de Expiación y Esperanza el menudo escasa, inapropiada o la experiencia del abuso sexual de los abusos sexuales es de gran isterio o como voluntario en su
domingo 27 de marzo a las inexistente. Reconociendo que puede hacer que la víctima se importancia, están invitados a parroquia, por favor, póngase en
3:00 pm en la Catedral de San los abusos sexuales existen en to- separe de su fe en Dios y en su asistir a la Misa de Expiación y contacto con el Coordinador de
Patricio. La Misa de Expiación dos los ámbitos de la sociedad, el Iglesia. La misa es un recorda- Esperanza. Esperamos verles Ambiente Seguro de su parro-
y Esperanza se ofreció inicial- obispo Seitz ha decidido ofrecer torio para las víctimas de que allí. quia o con Diana Bulko, Coor-
mente para todas las víctimas de esta misa por todas las víctimas tienen un lugar al que pertenecen Si usted ha sido víctima de dinadora de Ambiente Seguro
abuso sexual por parte del clero. de abusos sexuales por parte de y donde pueden experimentar el abuso sexual por parte de un de la Diócesis de El Paso, en el
Se trata de un reconocimiento cualquier perpetrador. amor y la curación de Dios. miembro del clero, por favor co- 872-8427.
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 March 2022 - 5
Diocese Reopens Temporary Migrant Shelter
By Christopher Velasquez
Staff Writer
As migrants and refugees
from Latin America and beyond
continue to arrive in El Paso,
the faithful have stepped up to
aid their brothers and sisters in
need. Since the reopening of the
migrant shelter at Martyrs Hall
on January 3rd many migrants
spanning various ages and
nationalities have found tempo-
rary support on the grounds of
the Diocese of El Paso as they
await their next destination.
The need to reopen the migrant
shelter arose as the Annunciation
House needed support to aid the
increasing number of migrants
and refugees.
The shelter works with local
authorities and provides essen-
tial support to the migrants who
have been vetted by border patrol
and brought to the diocese for
assistance on their journey. As
migrants continue to arrive at the
migrant shelter, the urgent need
for more volunteers has arisen.
Since the reopening of the migrant shelter at Martyrs Hall on January 3rd many migrants spanning various ages and nationalities have found
“The vast majority are people
temporary support on the grounds of the Diocese of El Paso as they await their next destination. Photo by Fernie Ceniceros
that are running for their lives
and looking for a safe place.
They are often just here for 24-
48 hours at the most. We need
people who can help serve meals
and register the migrants when the diocese’s efforts to provide The donations that people and if we have a lot of people, and Justice Ministry.
they arrive, especially people support. “The first thing that we make to the shelter provide we can make different teams, Those who would like to offer
in good health that have been do when they arrive is have them significant support. Currently, the and those that are currently support for the migrants can con-
vaccinated and who can do this tested for COVID, and the small need for new underwear, socks, volunteering won’t have to come tact the Diocesan Office of Peace
safely,” said Bishop Mark Seitz. number that tests positive end up paper plates and bowls, spoons, all the time. Volunteers can also and Justice at 915-872-8422 or
Precautions to ensure the going to a special place but not and 33-gallon trash bags has specify how they would like to email at mraposo@elpasodio-
safety of the migrants and vol- in the migrant shelter,” added become urgent. “We need volun- contribute,” said Marco Raposo, cese.org
unteers remain at the forefront of Bishop Mark Seitz. teers in every step of the process, Director of the Diocesan Peace
La Diócesis Reabre El
Albergue Para Inmigrantes
Por Christopher Velasquez con buena salud que hayan sido
Escritor del personal vacunadas y que puedan hacerlo
de forma segura”, dijo el obispo
A medida que los migrantes Mark Seitz.
y refugiados de América Latina Las precauciones para ga-
y más allá siguen llegando a El rantizar la seguridad de los
Paso, los fieles han dado un paso migrantes y de los voluntarios
adelante para ayudar a sus her- siguen siendo la prioridad de
manos y hermanas en necesidad. los esfuerzos de la diócesis para
Desde la reapertura del albergue proporcionar apoyo. “Lo primero
para migrantes en el Salón de los que hacemos cuando llegan es
Mártires el 3 de enero, muchos hacerles la prueba del COVID,
migrantes de diversas edades y y el pequeño número que da
nacionalidades han encontrado positivo acaba yendo a un lugar
apoyo temporal en los ter- especial, pero no en el refugio
renos de la Diócesis de El Paso para migrantes”, añadió el obispo
mientras esperan su próximo Mark Seitz.
destino. La necesidad de reabrir Las donaciones que la gente
el albergue para migrantes surgió hace al refugio suponen una
porque la Casa de la Anunciación ayuda importante. Actualmente,
necesitaba apoyo para ayudar al la necesidad de ropa interior nue-
creciente número de migrantes y va, calcetines, platos y cuencos
refugiados. de papel, cucharas y bolsas de
El refugio trabaja con las auto- basura de 33 galones se ha vuelto
ridades locales y proporciona un urgente. “Necesitamos voluntari-
apoyo esencial a los migrantes os en cada paso del proceso, y si
que han sido investigados por la tenemos mucha gente, podemos
patrulla fronteriza y llevados a hacer diferentes equipos, y los
la diócesis para recibir asisten- que actualmente son voluntarios
cia en su viaje. A medida que no tendrán que venir siempre.
los migrantes siguen llegando Los voluntarios también pueden
al refugio para migrantes, ha especificar cómo les gustaría
surgido la necesidad urgente contribuir”, dijo Marco Raposo,
de más voluntarios. “La gran Director del Ministerio Diocesa-
mayoría son personas que huyen no de Paz y Justicia.
por su vida y buscan un lugar Quienes quieran ofrecer su
seguro. A menudo sólo están aquí apoyo a los migrantes pueden
durante 24-48 horas como máx- ponerse en contacto con la Ofi-
imo. Necesitamos personas que cina Diocesana de Paz y Justicia
puedan ayudar a servir comidas y en el 915-872-8422 o por correo
registrar a los migrantes cuando electrónico en mraposo@elpaso-
lleguen, especialmente personas diocese.org
6 - The Rio Grande Catholic Hope Border Institute March 2022
The Bus Ride
By Abigail Ray serious injustices of poverty
Hope Border Institute and exploitation. He trained lay
people to become pastoral agents
“Chalate, Chalate, Chalate!” and educated them in Scripture
The bus drivers yelled for our as well as organizing and land
attention to climb aboard to head reform. He provided Salvadorans
out of the capital, San Salvador, with the tools of justice.
and drive to the mountains of This month, on March 24, we
Chalatenango. recognize the feast day of Saint
As a volunteer with the Uni- Oscar Romero, who continues to
versity of Central America in be a symbol of hope and justice
El Salvador in 2017, I traveled for Salvadorans but also people
every Sunday to a small rural throughout the world moved by
town in Chalatenango about five his solidarity with victims of
hours from the capital. Along the injustice. Through his weekly
bus route, I became familiar with broadcast sermons on public ra-
the landscape and towns I had dio, Romero lifted the narratives
heard about through stories of of violence and suffering, con-
the Salvadoran civil war. demning the government as the
One place where I would stop culprit of sin. His embodiment of
and reflect each week during the option for the poor, a bishop
the bus ride was the city of and a Christian totally identified
Aguilares. Aguilares was the with his people and their suffer-
location of the home parish of ing, ultimately led to his martyr-
Rutilio Grande, a Jesuit priest dom as well. His commitment to
and co-worker of Archbishop Os- liberation rooted in the Gospel
car Romero. Father Rutilio was continues to inspire.
killed by the Salvadoran govern- Sometimes, I rode the bus to
ment’s right wing death squads the Cathedral in San Salvador. In
on March 12, 1977. the center of the capital city, it is Rev. Rutilio Grande García, S.J. was a Jesuit priest in El Salvador. He was assassinated in 1977, along
Although my time on the bus the final resting place of Oscar with two other Salvadorans. He was the first priest assassinated before the civil war started and a close
always seemed special to me at Romero. Although the larger friend of Archbishop Óscar Romero. Photo Courtesy of Hope Border Institute.
that moment, it has grown to be cathedral itself is spectacular,
more impactful with the canon- he rests in the basement of the
ization of Oscar Romero and the building, in a smaller chapel
recent beatification of Rutilio dedicated to poor families during
Grande. the time of the war.
Rutilio Grande was not a voice During the celebration of work that the saints started. emulate the actions of Christ and living models to imitate in our
for the voiceless, but someone Mass in the basement of the San The bus that took me through our martyrs in my own life? own work of justice.
who created spaces for the poor Salvador Cathedral, I was able communities affected by the By being raised to the altar, Abi Ray is the director of for-
to exercise their voice. As a to pray next to the tomb of Oscar Salvadoran civil war not only both Rutilio Grande and St. mation and engagement at Hope
Jesuit priest, he walked with Romero. His presence in the reminded me of remembrance Oscar Romero are models of Border Institute. To learn more
the people and farmworkers chapel was not just a blessing, and history, it reminded me of holiness for the global Church. In visit hopeborder.org.
of Aguilares as they faced the but an invitation to continue the action. How am I continuing to their lives and witness, we have
The Rio Grande Catholic Special Column March 2022 - 7
LIVING THE LITURGY
Lent: An Opportunity For Healing Through The Sacrament Of Reconciliation
First, it’s important to ac- coming adopted children of God lacks real weight, for if you are tioned, when one sins, relation-
knowledge the different names and members of Christ’s Body, not sorry for having sinned, why ships are damaged that require
for this sacrament, as each one the Church. Because our sins do you seek forgiveness? repair. Though you are forgiven
sheds light on a different facet. damage our communion with Second is confession before a and absolved of your sins after
It is called the sacrament of God and with our neighbor, we priest, where we acknowledge your confession, you must still
conversion, because it involves a must repair more than just our how we’ve “fallen short” of make amends for them. This pen-
Christian choosing to turn back relationship with God when we following God’s command- ance could be prayer, an offering,
to God and away from his or her sin, which is why just asking for ments. (The Greek word for works of mercy, service, actions
Fr. Michael Lewis, STL sinful choices. It is often called God’s forgiveness is not enough. “sin,” hamartía, literally means of self-denial, or other sacrifices
the sacrament of penance, for The ritual actions of the entire to “fall short.”) In this act of that are done in cooperation with
the final step of the sacrament Sacrament of Reconciliation great humility, we both admit “him who strengthens us,” Jesus
During the penitential sea- is making amends for our sins. mend our fractured bond with our human weaknesses and free Christ. Penance is not punish-
son of Lent, the Sacrament of It is also frequently called the God, but also serve to heal the ourselves from them. The priest’s ment, but rather an aid to achieve
Reconciliation is often offered in sacrament of confession for its disrupted relationships among role is not to judge, nor to make conversion as well as strength to
churches more frequently. How- essential element — humbly the people harmed by our sins. the penitent feel bad for all the boldly live the Christian life.
ever, it is perhaps the most mis- acknowledging our sins before a Ultimately, the grace received in wrong they’ve done. Rather, he Like all sacraments, the
understood of all the sacraments. priest and taking responsibility the Sacrament of Reconciliation is there as a minister of healing, Sacrament of Reconciliation is
Many Catholics, fearful they will for them. It is called the sacra- helps a Christian with his or her commissioned to be a sign and a celebration. As one commen-
be embarrassed or judged, avoid ment of forgiveness, because lifelong project of interior con- instrument of God’s merciful tary says, it is a celebration of
the sacrament altogether, think- confession allows the penitent to version towards a life oriented love for each sinner. Purposefully our re-insertion into the life and
ing they need only seek forgive- be absolved and granted pardon to God’s love and mercy, rather omitting sins during confession community of the Church, and a
ness directly from God for the and peace. Finally, it is called than the fleeting and illusory — often out of embarrassment or re-insertion into the dynamism of
sins they’ve committed. While the sacrament of reconciliation, gratifications of sin. fear of being chastised — de- one’s baptism. We should not shy
it is true that God alone forgives because this is its ultimate goal There are actually three prives the penitent of complete away from it, but rather thank
our sins, there are other conse- — becoming reconciled with components to the Sacrament of reconciliation. As St. Jerome God for it. It is nothing less than
quences of sin that sacramental our merciful God, restoring our Reconciliation. First, a penitent once said, “If the sick person is a gift by which we return, like
confession and absolution help to relationship, and rejoining him must have contrition — we must too ashamed to show his wound the Prodigal Son, to the merciful
alleviate. The resulting abundant in intimate friendship along with truly be sorry for the sins we’ve to the doctor, the medicine can- embrace of God and his deep and
grace brings about true reconcil- the other members of the Body committed, regret that we com- not heal what it does not know.” abiding love.
iation with God and the Church, of Christ. mitted them, and be resolved to The third part of the sacra-
and our relationships with God We entered into this close not sin again. Without contrition, ment is satisfaction, commonly
and neighbor are truly healed. relationship at our Baptism, be- one’s confession is hollow and referred to as penance. As men-
Cuaresma: Una Oportunidad Para Sanar A Través Del Sacramento De La Reconciliación
Durante el tiempo penitencial pecador. Omitir deliberadamente
de la Cuaresma, el Sacramento de los pecados durante la confesión
la Reconciliación suele ofrecerse —a menudo por vergüenza o por
en las iglesias con mayor frecuen- miedo a ser castigado— priva al
cia. Sin embargo, es quizás el penitente de una reconciliación
más incomprendido de todos los completa. Como dijo San Jeróni-
sacramentos. Muchos católicos, mo: “Si el enfermo se avergüenza
por temor a ser avergonzados o de descubrir su llaga al médico, la
juzgados, evitan el sacramento medicina no cura lo que ignora”.
por completo, pensando que sólo La tercera parte del sacramento
necesitan buscar el perdón direct- es la satisfacción, comúnmente
amente de Dios por los pecados llamada penitencia. Como se ha
que han cometido. Si bien es cier- dicho, cuando uno peca, se dañan
to que sólo Dios perdona nuestros relaciones que requieren repa-
pecados, hay otras consecuencias ración. Aunque uno es perdonado
del pecado que la confesión y la y absuelto de sus pecados después
absolución sacramental ayudan de la confesión, aún debe repa-
a aliviar. La abundante gracia rarlos. Esta penitencia puede ser
resultante produce una verdadera la oración, una ofrenda, obras de
reconciliación con Dios y con la porque la confesión permite Sacramento de la Reconciliación no volver a pecar. Sin contrición, misericordia, servicio, acciones
Iglesia, y nuestras relaciones con absolver al penitente y concederle reparan nuestro vínculo fractura- la confesión es hueca y carece de de abnegación u otros sacrificios
Dios y con el prójimo quedan el perdón y la paz. Por último, se do con Dios, pero también sirven peso real, pues si no te arrepientes que se hacen en cooperación con
verdaderamente sanadas. llama sacramento de la reconcil- para sanar las relaciones pertur- de haber pecado, ¿por qué buscas “el que nos fortalece”, Jesucristo.
En primer lugar, es importante iación, porque éste es su objetivo badas entre las personas perjudi- el perdón? La penitencia no es un castigo,
reconocer los diferentes nombres último: reconciliarse con nuestro cadas por nuestros pecados. En L La segunda es la confesión sino una ayuda para lograr la
de este sacramento, ya que cada Dios misericordioso, restaurar última instancia, la gracia recibida ante un sacerdote, en la que conversión, así como la fuerza
uno arroja luz sobre una faceta nuestra relación y volver a unirse en el Sacramento de la Recon- reconocemos cómo hemos “que- para vivir con valentía la vida
diferente. Se llama sacramento de a él en íntima amistad junto con ciliación ayuda al cristiano en su dado cortos” en el cumplimiento cristiana.
la conversión, porque implica que los demás miembros del Cuerpo proyecto de conversión interior de los mandamientos de Dios. Como todos los sacramen-
un cristiano elige volver a Dios y de Cristo. de toda la vida hacia una vida (La palabra griega para “pecado”, tos, el de la Reconciliación es
alejarse de sus acciones pecami- Entramos en esta estrecha orientada al amor y la miseri- hamartía, significa literalmente una celebración. Como dice un
nosas. A menudo se le llama relación en nuestro Bautismo, cordia de Dios, en lugar de las “quedarse corto”) En este acto comentario, es una celebración de
el sacramento de la penitencia, convirtiéndonos en hijos adop- gratificaciones fugaces e ilusorias de gran humildad, admitimos nuestra reinserción en la vida y
porque el paso final del sacramen- tivos de Dios y miembros del del pecado. nuestras debilidades humanas y la comunidad de la Iglesia, y una
to es reparar nuestros pecados. Cuerpo de Cristo, la Iglesia. En realidad, el sacramento nos liberamos de ellas. El papel reinserción en el dinamismo del
También se le suele llamar Dado que nuestros pecados dañan de la Reconciliación tiene tres del sacerdote no es juzgar, ni propio bautismo. No debemos re-
sacramento de la confesión por nuestra comunión con Dios y con componentes. En primer lugar, un hacer que el penitente se sienta huirla, sino dar gracias a Dios por
su elemento esencial: reconocer el prójimo, debemos reparar algo penitente debe tener contrición mal por todo el mal que ha hecho. ella. Es nada menos que un don
humildemente nuestros pecados más que nuestra relación con Dios —debemos estar verdaderamente Más bien, está allí como ministro por el que volvemos, como el hijo
ante un sacerdote y asumir la cuando pecamos, por lo que no arrepentidos de los pecados que de sanación, encargado de ser pródigo, al abrazo misericordioso
responsabilidad de los mismos. Se basta con pedir el perdón de Dios. hemos cometido, lamentar haber- signo e instrumento del amor de Dios y a su amor profundo y
le llama sacramento del perdón, Las acciones rituales de todo el los cometido y estar decididos a misericordioso de Dios por cada permanente.
8 - The Rio Grande Catholic March 2022
SIDEWALK JESUS
Whatsoever We Do
have any ideas, Grandma?” clouds to overcome the obsta- for someone suffering their to the Holocaust Museum and
“Maybe you are trying to do cle, and that results in flower- own personal pain, sickness or learn how others helped those
too much, or maybe you aren’t ing bushes and better times.” distress. If I donate a cute baby in danger even though it meant
sure of the purpose of your sac- Smiling at her granddaughter, outfit to a group like Guiding danger for themselves. A trip to
rifice,” replied Grandma, pat- she continued, “Lent is also Star, maybe I’m helping Christ the food bank would show how
ting her granddaughter’s hand. a journey, an attempt to step carry His cross by showing a fortunate we are and motivate
“I find it best to personalize my away from things that take pregnant woman that someone us to do more for others. There
prayers, such as offering one us away from God, a time to is willing to lighten her load. are many ways to be of service,
Janet M. Crowe Hail Mary for each of my chil- exercise our willpower against If I bring flowers to a nursing you must choose the path that
dren and grandchildren.” She temptation in order to put us home, maybe I am standing will let you walk with Jesus on
looked around at those gathered back on the path toward God’s with Mary at the foot of her His way of the cross.”
on the patio. “That means a love and grace. During Lent, Son’s cross and consoling “Well, that’s rather over-
Hearing a door slam, the decade or two each night,” she we reflect on Christ’s time in God’s children who are lonely whelming,” sighed Susana.
elderly woman listened for added with a wink. the desert and, with Christ, we and missing their loved ones. “Anyway, Lent has already
the gaggle of voices she knew Susana interrupted, “Oh, prepare our hearts and souls If I give up one of life’s simple started so isn’t it really too late
would follow. She sat on the we’re also supposed to do some for the most important event in pleasures, I can save the money to start something now? Maybe
back patio, enjoying the warm kind of practical service for history, the Resurrection. We I would have spent and donate I’ll wait until next year.”
spring day as she waited. others. How do I do both?” want to cast off those things it to a charity like the food “Nice try,” laughed her
Soon family members joined “Well, first you pray,” an- that prevent us from being at bank. Then maybe I’m easing grandmother. “Tell me, what
her outside, bringing cookies, swered Grandma. “Prayer is the foot of the Cross with our the pain Christ endured when feast day do we celebrate in
lemonade and extra chairs. the best way to begin any type Lord. In contemplating what Je- they crowned Him with thorns, just a few days, before Easter?”
Each one gave the grandmother of service or charitable project sus went through for our sakes, and I would also strengthen “Um, Palm Sunday? No,
a hug or a kiss on the cheek. because you need to make sure we realize His great love for us myself in avoiding the tempta- that’s not a feast day.” Susa-
Suddenly, the quiet of the patio you’re doing it for the right rea- and we, hopefully, try to imitate tion to make money or selfish- na wrinkled her forehead in
buzzed with conversation. son. Ask yourself if you’re per- His love and respond in a more ness my king.” thought. “Um, is it the day hon-
When the chatter slowed a bit, forming this good deed because loving way toward others.” “Grandma, I can’t do all of oring St. Joseph? Oh, I know!
a woman nudged her teenage it’s an assignment or because “How?” asked Susana. that!” exclaimed Susana. Feast of the Annunciation!”
daughter and motioned toward you really want to help.” “Remember what we did “Of course not,” reassured “Yes! The Annunciation is
the grandmother with a reassur- Pausing to look around the during Advent?” asked Grand- her grandmother. “No one can the beginning of the Resurrec-
ing smile. yard, the grandmother’s eyes ma. do everything, but everyone tion story!” declared Grandma.
The teenager sighed and lingered on flowers blooming “Sure,” Susana said, “each can do something. Remember, “Now, consider if Mary or St.
asked, “Grandma, would you nearby. She turned back to time we did something good or whatsoever you do to the least Joseph had said they’d rather
help me with my confirmation her granddaughter, “Life is a were nice to others, we put a of my brethren.” wait until next year.”
project?” journey of seasons. We endure piece of yarn in a little card- “You do unto Me,” said Susa- “Okay, you’re right, Grand-
“Of course, Susana, I’d be times when bare winter tree board manger to make a softer na. “But what do I do?” ma. I suppose it’s better late
happy to help if I can,” encour- branches reflect an emptiness bed of straw for baby Jesus. “Your offering must be than never,” agreed Susana.
aged the grandmother. inside of us, the difficulties we But, Grandma, that’s really a personal, from your heart, from “I’ll do my best to find a way
“Our confirmation teacher must get through. Then things kid’s thing, to make children what you consider important,” to walk alongside Mary and
says our Lenten sacrifices are brighten up and all seems right behave, isn’t it?” Grandma said. “In your case, Joseph and, especially, Jesus
kind of lacking in sincerity,” in our world, like the blossom- “Is it?” asked Grandma. “If you might consider offering and try to imitate their love this
Susana complained. “Most of ing of the trees. A dark, cloudy I pray for someone in need, a prayer for other teenagers Lent, even if I am getting a late
us have just given up something day or a challenging obstacle even someone I don’t know, who are struggling and need to start on the journey.”
simple like desserts or sodas. may cause us to stumble or give then maybe I lessen the agony know that someone cares. Then “That’s the spirit,” urged
So, Mom thought we might try up. We forget that the darkness Jesus suffered when He was find a way to put that prayer Grandma. “Oh! Take the Holy
to pray a rosary every night, but of a storm might bring rain scourged, easing the pain of into action in whatever way Spirit with you on your journey.
I just have so much homework, which would be us discovering one of the stripes upon His you choose. Maybe you could He can share a bit of wisdom
plus I keep forgetting. Do you the strength within our inner back by doing something good take some friends on an outing along the way.”
MAKING SENSE OF BIOETHICS
Too Much Morphine?
many patients near the end of flailing extremities, or other tions of escalating pain, it may appreciate the Christian under-
life. Morphine is also used to movements. Such objective become necessary to adminis- standing of redemptive suffer-
alleviate anxiety and labored indicators should guide those ter higher and higher doses of ing.”
breathing. Opioids are highly making dosing decisions as they morphine or other opioids. At a In situations of truly intrac-
effective pain management tools seek to control pain and limit certain point, we may face the table pain, it can be legitimate
in the tool box of palliative care discomfort. prospect that the next dose we to employ “palliative sedation,”
and hospice specialists. As families receive advice provide to properly control the which involves the decision to
These drugs need to be used about how to care for their loved pain will be so high that it will render a patient unconscious
Fr. Tad Pacholczyk carefully, since very high doses ones, and try to make good suppress the patient’s breathing, during his or her final hours.
are capable of suppressing a pa- decisions on their behalf, one leading to death. The principle This should be done with proper
tient’s ability to breathe, which question that should be asked is, of double effect can guide and consent, obtained from the pa-
To help people navigate some can lead to death. “What is the reason someone is assist us in such cases. When the tient or the designated surrogate.
of the complex decisions in- Medically appropriate use of being given (or is being advised clinical requirement of proper It is important to avoid any sui-
volved in end-of-life situations, these drugs for pain manage- to receive) pain medication?” Is titration of pain medications cidal intention and to ensure that
the National Catholic Bioethics ment will involve the important the medication being provided is carried out, and the other other duties, such as receiving
Center offers a free and confi- concept of titration. Dosage because the patient is actually conditions of the principle are the last sacraments and saying
dential consultation service via titration means giving enough experiencing pain, or for some satisfied, a strict and appropri- goodbye to loved ones, have
e-mail or phone. Often we are medication to dull or limit the other reason, such as an intent ate use of pain medication in been fulfilled.
asked about the appropriate use pain, but not going so far as to to hasten death? This can be an this manner can be allowable, Such careful attention to pain
of morphine and other opioids. cause unconsciousness or death. important factor in determining even when it may indirectly or management is of paramount
Family members may be under- This implies continually assess- whether the administration of unintentionally contribute to an importance in end-of-life care
standably concerned about the ing and adjusting the balance of a particular pain medication individual’s demise. and supports both the patient
potential for overdosing their a drug to assure it is effective would be ethical or not. This has been helpfully and the family in a dignified
loved ones, as hospice workers and not unduly harmful. In By carefully dispensing pain summed up in Directive 61 way during the dying process.
appear to “ramp up” the mor- other words, pain medications medications without rendering of the Ethical and Religious Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk,
phine rapidly, especially in the should be dispensed in response patients lethargic or semi-co- Directives of the US Conference Ph.D. earned his doctorate in
last few hours of life. to concrete indicators of pain matose, to the extent possible, of Catholic Bishops, which re- neuroscience from Yale and did
What principles can guide us and discomfort, so that patients we afford them the opportunity minds us that, “Medicines capa- post-doctoral work at Harvard.
in the appropriate use of mor- can have their pain-relief needs to make preparations for their ble of alleviating or suppressing He is a priest of the diocese of
phine near the end of life? It can met but not be unnecessarily death while still conscious. In pain may be given to a dying Fall River, MA, and serves as
be helpful to summarize a few over-medicated. general, patients should not person, even if this therapy may the Director of Education at
key points here. Practically speaking, it is im- be deprived of alertness or indirectly shorten the person’s The National Catholic Bioeth-
Morphine and other opioids portant to pay attention to signs consciousness except to miti- life so long as the intent is not to ics Center in Philadelphia. See
can be very useful — indeed, of discomfort that a patient gate excruciating or otherwise hasten death. Patients experi- www.ncbcenter.org and www.
invaluable — in controlling may be manifesting, whether unbearable pain. encing suffering that cannot be fathertad.com.
pain and reducing suffering for grimacing, twitching, crying, In order to address situa- alleviated should be helped to
The Rio Grande Catholic March 2022- 9
VIDA DEL ESPIRITU
Cómo Llegamos A Donde Estamos
iluminada por la fe e inspirada en
el amor a Dios y a sus enseñan-
zas. Esa transformación interior
pide sencillez para reconocer las
propias fallas y no vivir culpando
a los demás. También es necesa-
rio un firme compromiso que se
Padre Wilson Cuevas traduzca en acciones nuevas y
positivas. Sin un plan de acción
todo se diluye en hermosas
Convencidos que lo sabía- promesas.
mos todo, que podíamos todo y Parece irracional pero hay
teníamos todo; nos endiosamos quienes solo aceptan su respons-
y términos rebeldizandonos y abilidad cuando están hundidos
excluyendo a Dios de nuestra en el estiércol. Solo después de
vida y de nuestra sociedad. Así lastimarse y lastimar a muchos,
comenzamos a crear nuestros toman conciencia de que son el-
ídolos: Ciencia, tecnología, los los que están mal y necesitan
dinero, diversión y toda clase ayuda. Si de verdad se compro-
de adiciones y nos hemos ido meten a mejorar y a iniciar un
empobreciendo espiritualmente nuevo modo de vivir en cual-
por enriquecernos materialmente. quier edad. Nunca es tarde para
Llamamos progresó a la destruc- cambiar y renacer. Dios siempre
ción y necesitamos aprender a está esperando con amor y pa-
vivir en armonía con Dios, con ciencia que volvamos a Él.
los demás y con la madre tierra. Es bueno meditar las enseñan-
Todos necesitamos una gran zas del libro de Proverbios. Ese
dosis de humildad y el esfuerzo libro recoge la sabiduría del
por corregir la soberbia que nos pueblo judío, acumulada a lo
ha llevado a esta “torre de babel” largo de varios siglos, allí se
por el ansia de poder y de poseer. habla mucho del “temor de Dios”
Estamos enfermos y confundi- como principio de sabiduría,
dos; porque no hay cuerpo sano significa amar a Dios y confiar en
en un espíritu enfermo. Necesi- El, más que al miedo. Hoy en día
tamos reconciliarnos con nuestro conviene recuperar el temor de pequeño, lo que menos brilla y Cuando el esposo volvió sintió Eres prudente cuando oras,
creador para conseguir la paz Dios como un freno ético. En el lo que no se aprecia en el mundo asco, recogió el grano y se fue meditas y con armonía interi-
interior y un despertar espiritual. lenguaje bíblico “temor de Dios” del tener y del aparecer. Son las al mercado. Allí lo cambio por or huyes de la superficialidad.
La autentica alegría nace de con- significa seguir y hacer su vol- flores y las rosas las que atraen granos no descortezados, canti- Piensa y recuerda que la vida es
vivir en armonía. Una armonía untad. Ser fiel creyente. Por eso todas las miradas y poco o nada dad por cantidad igual. Mientras un obsequio y que la humani-
que brota de la honestidad y el se dice allí muchas veces que el se exalta a las raíces silenciosas ello lo hacía, un anciano le dijo dad ha estado malgastando pero
desapego y de una relación am- hombre feliz es el que escucha a al tallo, a la savia o a las hojas. a su amigo: “Por alguna razón en medio de este desorden, se
orosa con Dios, con los demás y Dios y sigue sus caminos. Asim- Se cuenta que la esposa de un esa mujer está cambiando grano puede ver la gracia de un nuevo
con nuestra madre tierra que es la ilar los proverbios y practicarlos finquero necesitaba grano para descortezado por grano no des- comienzo a nuestro alrededor.
casa común que compartimos. es un excelente medio para elegir agasajar a un grupo de amigos, cortezado”. No fallemos participando de la
No es cambiando de lugar o lo mejor y hacer la voluntad en un banquete organizado por Se prudente y cauteloso locura en que vivimos. Creamos
usando este medicamento sino divina que dice: “Tesoros mal su marido. Se madrugo un día cuando algo se te presente muy y dispongámonos a pasar el resto
cambiando de actitud como adquiridos no aprovechan mas y se dedico a descortezar el fácil y muy ventajoso: Recuerda de nuestras vidas siendo un canal
podemos solucionar la crisis. Y la justicia libra de la muerte”. grano. Luego lo tendió al sol que ante la tentación hace falta de esta misma bondad para otros.
un dicho popular lo enuncia así: (Prov. 10,2). para secarlo y le dijo a su esposo: la reflexión. Creces en sabiduría Los cristianos genuinos nunca
“De poco sirve cambiar de lugar Podemos aprender mucho y “No dejes que los perros o los cuando buscas las razones dejar de servir, porque nunca
porque el diablo viaja en todos llevarnos gratas sorpresas dejan- pájaros lo estropeen”. La mujer ocultas de los hechos sin dejarte dejan de amar y nunca dejan
los transportes”. Es en lo profun- do de valor más las apariencias, se fue a hacer otras faenas y engañar por las aparentes ganan- de amar, porque nunca dejar de
do del corazón humano donde lo que más figura, lo superficial; como el esposo se distrajo paso cias. El sabio siempre busca la creer!
debe darse una transformación valorando más la grandeza de lo un perro y se meo en el grano. razón profunda de los hechos.
How We Got Where We Are!
Convinced that we knew ev- and with our mother earth which to improve and start a new way We can learn a lot and get man said to his friend: “For some
erything, that we could do every- is the common home we share. of living in any age. It is never pleasant surprises leaving of val- reason that woman is exchanging
thing and we had everything; we It is not by changing our place too late to change and be reborn. ue more of the appearances, what hulled grain for unhulled grain”.
deified ourselves and we started or using this medicine but by God is always waiting with love is most visible, what is superfi- Be prudent and cautious when
to rebel and exclude God from changing our attitude that we can and patience for us to return to cial; valuing more the greatness something comes very easy and
our life and our society. Thus solve the crisis. And a popular Him. of the small, what is less shining very advantageous to you: Re-
we began to create our idols: saying puts it this way: “It is It is good to meditate on the and what is not appreciated in the member that in the face of temp-
Science, technology, money, fun of little use to change places teachings of the book of Prov- world of having and appearing. It tation, reflection is necessary.
and all kinds of additions and because the devil travels in all erbs. This book gathers the is the flowers and the roses that You grow in wisdom when you
we have been impoverishing transports”. It is in the depths of wisdom of the Jewish people, attract all the looks and little or look for the hidden reasons of the
ourselves spiritually by enrich- the human heart that a transfor- accumulated over several cen- nothing is exalted to the silent facts without being deceived by
ing ourselves materially. We mation enlightened by faith and turies, there is much talk about roots to the stem, to the sap or to the apparent gains. The wise man
call destruction progress and we inspired by love for God and his the “fear of God” as a principle the leaves. always seeks the deep reason
need to learn to live in harmony teachings must take place. This of wisdom, it means to love God The story goes that a farmer’s for the facts. You are wise when
with God, with others and with inner transformation calls for and trust in Him, rather than fear. wife needed grain to entertain you pray, meditate and flee from
mother earth. simplicity in recognizing one’s Today it is convenient to recover a group of friends at a banquet superficiality with inner harmo-
We all need a great dose of own failings and not living by the fear of God as an ethical organized by her husband. She ny. Think and remember that life
humility and the effort to correct blaming others. It also requires a brake. In biblical language “fear got up early one day and began is a gift and that humanity has
the pride that has led us to this firm commitment that translates of God” means to follow and do to husk the grain. Then she laid it been wasting but in the midst
“tower of babel” for the lust into new and positive actions. his will. To be a faithful believer. out to dry in the sun and said to of this disorder, you can see the
of power and possession. We Without a plan of action ev- That is why it is said there many her husband: “Don’t let the dogs grace of a new beginning around
are sick and confused; because erything is diluted in beautiful times that the happy man is the or the birds spoil it”. The woman us. Let us not fail to participate
there is no healthy body in a promises. one who listens to God and fol- went off to do other chores and in the madness in which we live.
sick spirit. We need to reconcile It seems irrational but there lows his ways. To assimilate the when the husband was distract- Let us believe and be willing to
with our creator to achieve inner are those who only accept their proverbs and to practice them is ed, a dog came by and peed on spend the rest of our lives being
peace and spiritual awakening. responsibility when they are deep an excellent means to choose the the grain. When the husband a channel of this same goodness
Authentic joy is born from living in the muck. Only after hurting best and to do the divine will that returned he felt disgusted, picked to others. Genuine Christians
together in harmony. A harmony themselves and many others, says: “Ill-gotten treasures profit up the grain and went to the never stop serving, because they
that springs from honesty and they become aware that they are nothing, but righteousness de- market. There he exchanged it never stop loving and never stop
detachment and from a loving re- the ones who are bad and need livers from death” (Prov. 10:2). for unhusked grain, quantity for loving, because they never stop
lationship with God, with others help. If they are truly committed (Prov. 10:2). quantity. While doing so, an old believing!
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