RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC Bishop Seitz and Others Meet With VP on Immigration - Diocese of El Paso
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THE
RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC
Vol. 30, No. 7 Celebrating 30 Years serving the Diocese of El Paso July 2021
Bishop Seitz and Others Meet With VP on Immigration
By Matt Hadro
CNA - Jun 25, 2021
The bishop of El Paso said
the Church must work with the
administration on issues that
overlap, after attending an immi-
gration roundtable with the vice
president on Friday.
Bishop Mark Seitz of El
Paso was one of a number of
local leaders who met with Vice
President Kamala Harris (D) on
her first trip to the U.S.-Mexico
border on Friday, June 25.
“We know there are many areas
in which we do not agree with
positions taken by the administra-
tion. And those issues need to be
discussed, no question about it,”
said Bishop Seitz told CNA in an
interview following the meeting.
“But we also need to work
with the administration and our
legislators on areas where Cath-
olic teaching and practice comes
together with efforts that our
government is making,” he said.
Participating at the roundtable
with Harris at El Paso Interna-
tional Airport were Secretary of
Homeland Security Alejandro
Mayorkas, Sen. Dick Durbin
(D-Ill.), Rep. Veronica Escobar
(D-Texas), and members of
faith-based groups that work with
immigrants.
Harris mentioned policies of
family separation, “inhumane”
housing for migrants, and a
“broken” asylum system, in com-
ments during the portion of the
meeting open to the press pool.
Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso was one of a number of local leaders who met with Vice President Kamala Harris (D) on her first trip to the
“Do justice, love mercy, walk
U.S.-Mexico border on Friday, June 25. Photo Courtesy of Hope Border Institute
humbly with your God,” she said
to Bishop Seitz, quoting Micah
6:8.
According to Bishop Seitz, ad-
vocates at the roundtable brought
up “root causes” of migration to
the U.S. in their meeting with
El Obispo Seitz Y Otros Se Reúnen Con El Vicepresidente Sobre La Inmigración
Harris, as well as the adminis-
tration’s Title 42 policy which Por Matt Hadro Seitz a CNA en una entrevista asilo “roto”, en los comentarios desesperada que sea su situación,
prevents asylum-seekers from en- CNA - 25 Junio 2021 tras la reunión. realizados durante la parte de la tiene derecho siquiera a presentar
tering the United States due to the “Pero también necesitamos reunión abierta a la prensa. “Haz una solicitud de asilo en nuestra
pandemic. The U.S. Conference El obispo de El Paso dijo que trabajar con la administración justicia, ama la misericordia, frontera”, dijo el obispo Seitz a la
of Catholic Bishops on Thursday la Iglesia debe trabajar con la y nuestros legisladores en las camina humildemente con tu CNA sobre la continuación de la
criticized “the misuse of Title 42 administración en temas que se áreas en las que la enseñanza y Dios”, dijo al obispo Seitz, citan- política del Título 42 vigente por
to turn away vulnerable asylum superponen, después de asistir a la práctica católica coinciden con do Miqueas 6:8. parte de la administración Biden.
seekers.” una mesa redonda sobre inmi- los esfuerzos que está haciendo Según el obispo Seitz, los “Eso tiene que terminar”, dijo
“Right now, no one, no matter gración con la vicepresidenta el nuestro gobierno”, añadió. defensores de la mesa redonda sobre la política.
how desperate their situation, has viernes. En la mesa redonda con Harris sacaron a relucir las “causas La migración, para muchos
a right even to make a claim for El obispo de El Paso, Mark en el Aeropuerto Internacional de fundamentales” de la migración -especialmente de los países del
asylum at our border,” Bishop Seitz, fue uno de los líderes El Paso participaron el secretario a Estados Unidos en su reunión “Triángulo del Norte”, Hondu-
Seitz told CNA of the Biden locales que se reunió con la de Seguridad Nacional, Alejan- con Harris, así como la política ras, El Salvador y Guatemala- es
administration’s continuation of vicepresidenta Kamala Harris dro Mayorkas, el senador Dick del Título 42 de la administración una cuestión de vida o muerte,
existing Title 42 policy. (demócrata) en su primer viaje a Durbin (demócrata de Illinois), la que impide la entrada de solici- subrayó. Se sabe que estos tres
“That has to end,” he said of la frontera entre México y Esta- representante Verónica Escobar tantes de asilo en Estados Unidos países tienen una de las tasas de
the policy. dos Unidos el viernes 25 de junio. (demócrata de Texas) y miembros debido a la pandemia. La Con- homicidio más altas del mundo.
Migration, for many – especial- “Sabemos que hay muchas de grupos religiosos que trabajan ferencia de Obispos Católicos de El vicepresidente Harris, en un
ly from the “Northern Triangle” áreas en las que no estamos con inmigrantes. Estados Unidos criticó el jueves viaje a Guatemala a principios de
countries of Honduras, El Salva- de acuerdo con las posiciones Harris mencionó las políti- “el mal uso del Título 42 para este mes para abordar las causas
adoptadas por la administración. cas de separación de familias, rechazar a los solicitantes de asilo fundamentales de la migración,
Continued on Pg. 4 Y esos temas deben ser discuti- el alojamiento “inhumano” de vulnerables”.
dos, no hay duda”, dijo el obispo los inmigrantes y un sistema de “Ahora mismo, nadie, por muy Continuado en la Pg. 4
2 - The Rio Grande Catholic Editor’s Column July 2021
EDITOR’S COLUMN
Thank You All!
I
want to take this opportunity cal year for 2021, Bishop Seitz, to take this opportunity to ask parishes through the TV Masses.
in my column to absolutely the Chancery office, and I have that all of you pray for Norma in However I pray that many more
thank everyone for asking come to the difficult conclusion her new ventures. of you that are able, can join us
about my wife and daughters. that we can no longer sustain a Please continue to pray for in person for mass at all of our
I received many calls, emails, 24/7 online radio station. As a the ministry of communications parishes.
or some of you stopping me result, we have had to part ways as we begin to sort out our next Please take the time to follow
and asking how my youngest with the Radio Program Direc- steps to serve you better while us on all of our social media
daughter is and whether or not I tor, Norma Muñoz. Many of remaining faithful stewards to platforms for all the latest news
am getting any sleep. To answer you have come to know Norma the gifts that you give us. Also, and events that we bring to
your questions, My daughter as Norma Ayala, a long-stand- keep all of your diocesan minis- you to keep you updated and
Evie is now 10lbs 5oz. and is Fernie Ceniceros ing radio personality in local tries in prayer as we begin a new informed on this work that God
thriving! My wife and I have Spanish radio, before coming fiscal year. has tasked us with.
worked tirelessly to ensure both That said, I’d like to update all to the Diocese as The Bridge We will continue to bring Lastly, please have patience
of our daughters get all the love of you about changes coming to Radio Program Director. I would you our Sunday liturgies for the with us as we figure out how to
and care they need. Thank you the ministry of communications be remiss if I did not take this homebound and infirm on both bring you the highest quality
all for all the prayers and after that I have had the honor and opportunity to thank Norma for our local television stations and programming and content for all
the whole ordeal. My family and pleasure of serving as its director all of her work and dedication to our social media accounts in of you. I pray that the Lord and
I are eternally grateful to all of for the last year. The Bridge Catholic Radio and the coming months. Thanks to the spirit will lead us to serve
you! As we have reached a new fis- this humble publication. I want all of you for supporting your you best.
Gracias a Todos!
Q
uiero aprovechar esta oración a todos los ministerios
oportunidad en mi diocesanos al comenzar un nuevo
columna para agrade- año fiscal.
cer absolutamente a todos por En los próximos meses se-
preguntar por mi esposa e hijas. guiremos presentando nuestras
He recibido muchas llamadas, liturgias dominicales para los
correos electrónicos, o algunos confinados en casa y los enfer-
de ustedes me paran y pregun- mos en nuestras estaciones de
tan cómo está mi hija menor y televisión locales y en nuestras
si estoy durmiendo o no. Para cuentas de medios sociales. Gra-
responder a vuestras preguntas, cias a todos ustedes por apoyar
mi hija Evie pesa ahora 10 libras a sus parroquias a través de las
y 5 onzas y está prosperando. Mi misas por televisión. Sin embar-
esposa y yo hemos trabajado in- go, rezo para que muchos más
cansablemente para asegurarnos de ustedes que puedan, puedan
de que nuestras dos hijas reciban unirse a nosotros en persona
todo el amor y los cuidados que para la misa en todas nuestras
necesitan. Gracias a todos por parroquias.
todas las oraciones y después de Por favor, tómense el tiempo
todo el calvario. ¡Mi familia y yo para seguirnos en todas nuestras
estamos eternamente agradecidos plataformas de medios sociales
a todos vosotros! para todas las últimas noticias
Dicho esto, me gustaría actu- y eventos que les traemos para
alizar a todos ustedes acerca de mantenerlos actualizados e in-
los cambios que se avecinan en formados sobre este trabajo que
el ministerio de comunicaciones Dios nos ha encomendado.
que he tenido el honor y el placer estación de radio en línea 24/7. Directora del Programa de Radio Norma en sus nuevas empresas. Por último, por favor, tened
de servir como su director duran- Como resultado, hemos tenido El Puente. Sería negligente si no Por favor, continúen rezando paciencia con nosotros mientras
te el último año. que separarnos de la Directora aprovechara esta oportunidad por el ministerio de comunica- descubrimos cómo traeros la
Como hemos llegado a un del Programa de Radio, Norma para agradecer a Norma todo ciones mientras comenzamos a programación y el contenido
nuevo año fiscal para 2021, el Muñoz. Muchos de ustedes han su trabajo y dedicación a The ordenar nuestros próximos pasos de mayor calidad para todos
Obispo Seitz, la oficina de la llegado a conocer a Norma como Bridge Catholic Radio y a esta para servirles mejor mientras vosotros. Rezo para que el Señor
Cancillería, y yo hemos llegado Norma Ayala, una personalidad humilde publicación. Quiero seguimos siendo fieles adminis- y el espíritu nos guíen para ser-
a la difícil conclusión de que de la radio local española, antes aprovechar esta oportunidad para tradores de los dones que ustedes virles mejor.
ya no podemos mantener una de venir a la Diócesis como pedir que todos ustedes recen por nos dan. También, mantengan en
THE
RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC Celebrating 30 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.
Twitter: @BishopSeitz
499 St. Matthews St., El Paso TX, 79907
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-
Spanish Translation: Fernie Ceniceros graphs become the property of THE RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC. If photos are on loan to the
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Contributors: Janet M. Crowe, Printer - PDX Printing.
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© 2021 by
THE RIO GRANDE CATHOLIC
All rights reserved
@DioceseofElPaso @ElPasoDiocese @ElPasoDiocese
The Rio Grande Catholic Bishop’s Column July 2021 - 3
INSEITZ INTO THE FAITH
The Only Antidote For An Angry World
H
ave you noticed how snipers who take well aimed shots People often say, “I’m leaving
angry people are today? and then disappear into the virtual the Church because she is made
Some people are so angry ether. up of people who appear to me to
they could just kill someone! And Anyone who is a public figure be hypocrites and sinners.” They
they do! In 2020 alone, there were can expect to be targeted. And should be saying, “The Church
614 mass shootings resulting in institutions come in as a special is a place in which I can belong
446 deaths and 2,515 injuries, for focus of the hatred that boils because it is made up of sinners
a total of 3,061 victims in the U.S. within the souls of so many. Be who are longing to be saints, just
People are so mad they are taking they of the so-called right, left or like me.”
out their anger, sometimes on peo- center, the forces of destruction Would you like to see the world
ple they know or they may choose rally to the cause. It is a race to become a place less dominated by
a certain race or ethnic group, and mutual assured destruction! those who are angry and venge- Bishop Mark J. Seitz
other times just random people The Church, although it is ful? Recognizing our own frailty
will do. We in El Paso are first the Body of Christ on earth, is and sinfulness would be a good measure with which you measure to replace judgment and anger?
hand witnesses of the terrible cost no exception to this destructive start! Seeing our own personal will be measured out to you. Why Jesus has made clear that such a
of their boundless anger. onslaught. It never has been failings and understanding how do you notice the splinter in your world is made possible when we
But mass shooters are not the exempted! The Church becomes the mercy of God has shown itself brother’s eye, but do not perceive open ourselves to God’s grace.
only angry people. They are just a welcome target because it is in our lives can convict us of the the wooden beam in your own This challenging work is some-
the tip of a societal iceberg. Mass made up of sinful human beings hypocrisy involved in attempting eye? How can you say to your thing God wants to do beginning
shooters resorted to physical vi- who during this life on earth could to direct self-righteous fury at brother, ‘Let me remove that with you and me. There is no
olence. but the greater part of the never live up to the exalted calling others. splinter from your eye,’ while the time like the present! As G.K.
iceberg is under the surface and she has received. Jesus intended Jesus, of course, taught very wooden beam is in your eye? You Chesterton once said, “The Chris-
the anger they carry and express this so that there would never be clearly about these issues. I offer hypocrite, remove the wooden tian ideal has not been tried and
is not without its victims. Their any doubt that the Church is a this passage as one example beam from your eye first; then found wanting; it has been found
weapons of choice are found hospital welcoming sinners into among many: Jesus said to his you will see clearly to remove the difficult and left untried.”
primarily in the stealthy power of the healing embrace of Jesus. She disciples: splinter from your brother’s eye.”
the internet in social media and was never intended to be simply “Stop judging, that you may (Matt. 7:1-5)
these are indeed weapons of mass a hotel for saints with no spot or not be judged. For as you judge, How might this world change
destruction. They are hidden wrinkle. That day is yet to come. so will you be judged, and the if mercy and forgiveness were
El Único Antídoto Para Un Mundo Enfadado
T
e has dado cuenta de iceberg está bajo la superficie estado exenta. La Iglesia se dominado por aquellos que hay en tu propio ojo? ¿Cómo
lo enfadada que está y la ira que llevan y expresan convierte en un objetivo bien- están enfadados y son vengati- puedes decir a tu hermano:
la gente hoy en día? no está exenta de víctimas. Sus venido porque está formada por vos? Reconocer nuestra propia “Déjame sacar esa paja de tu
Algunas personas están tan armas de elección se encuen- seres humanos pecadores que fragilidad y pecaminosidad ojo”, mientras la viga de made-
enfadadas que podrían matar a tran principalmente en el poder durante esta vida en la tierra sería un buen comienzo. Ver ra está en el tuyo? Hipócrita,
alguien. ¡Y lo hacen! Sólo en sigiloso de Internet en las redes nunca podrían estar a la altura nuestros propios fallos per- saca primero la viga de madera
el año 2020, hubo 614 tiroteos sociales y éstas son realmente de la exaltada vocación que ha sonales y comprender cómo de tu ojo; entonces verás clara-
masivos que resultaron en 446 armas de destrucción masiva. recibido. Jesús quiso que nunca la misericordia de Dios se ha mente para sacar la paja del
muertes y 2.515 heridos, para Son francotiradores ocultos que hubiera duda de que la Iglesia manifestado en nuestras vidas ojo de tu hermano”. (Mateo
un total de 3.061 víctimas en disparan bien y luego desapare- es un hospital que acoge a los puede convencernos de la 7:1-5)
los EE.UU. La gente está tan cen en el éter virtual. pecadores en el abrazo sanador hipocresía que supone intentar ¿Cómo podría cambiar este
enojada que está sacando su Cualquier persona que sea de Jesús. Nunca se pretendió dirigir la furia farisaica hacia mundo si la misericordia y el
ira, a veces en las personas que una figura pública puede espe- que fuera simplemente un los demás. perdón sustituyeran al juicio y
conocen o pueden elegir una rar ser un objetivo. Y las insti- hotel para santos sin mancha Jesús, por supuesto, enseñó la ira? Jesús ha dejado claro
determinada raza o grupo étni- tuciones son un foco especial ni arruga. Ese día aún está por muy claramente sobre estos te- que un mundo así es posible
co, y otras veces sólo la gente del odio que hierve en las almas llegar. La gente suele decir: mas. Ofrezco este pasaje como cuando nos abrimos a la gracia
al azar va a hacer. Nosotros, de tantos. Sean de la llamada “Me voy de la Iglesia porque un ejemplo entre muchos otros: de Dios. Este trabajo desafiante
en El Paso, somos testigos de derecha, izquierda o centro, está formada por personas que Jesús dijo a sus discípulos: es algo que Dios quiere hacer
primera mano del terrible coste las fuerzas de la destrucción se me parecen hipócritas y peca- “Dejad de juzgar, para que no empezando por ti y por mí. No
de su ira sin límites. unen a la causa. Es una carrera doras”. Deberían decir: “La seáis juzgados. Porque según hay tiempo como el presente.
Pero los tiradores en masa no hacia la destrucción mutua Iglesia es un lugar al que puedo juzguéis, así seréis juzgados, Como dijo una vez G.K. Ches-
son las únicas personas enfad- asegurada. pertenecer porque está formada y la medida con la que midáis terton: “El ideal cristiano no se
adas. Son sólo la punta de un La Iglesia, aunque es el por pecadores que anhelan ser os será aplicada”. ¿Por qué ha probado y se ha encontrado
iceberg social. Los tiradores Cuerpo de Cristo en la tierra, santos, como yo”. te fijas en la paja que hay en en falta; se ha encontrado difí-
en masa recurren a la violencia no es una excepción a este ¿Te gustaría que el mundo se el ojo de tu hermano, pero no cil y se ha dejado sin probar”.
física. pero la mayor parte del ataque destructivo. Nunca ha convirtiera en un lugar menos percibes la viga de madera que
4 - The Rio Grande Catholic Diocesan News July 2021
Continued from Pg. 1 ticipated in parish mission trips to
dor, and Guatemala – is a life- Mexico and Central America as
or-death issue, he emphasized. a priest.
Those three countries have been He noted that on the mission
known to have among the world’s trips, “we went in with a very
highest homicide rates. American notion that we were
Vice President Harris, in a trip going to go fix things.”
to Guatemala earlier this month “I came to understand that they
to address root causes of migra- [residents] know what they need
tion, warned those considering better than we do,” he said.
migrating to the United States The United States as a nation
against making the “dangerous” needs to think the same way, he
trip, saying “Do not come. Do said.
not come. The United States will “And of course, if we truly
continue to enforce our laws and believe that these are people just
secure our border.” like you and I who have not only
Bishop Seitz said that the ad- intelligence but human dignity,”
ministration and political leaders he added, “we shouldn’t go in as
need to understand that “this a nation and just say ‘this is what
broken system of immigration is we’re going to do to fix you,’ but
not going to be fixed overnight, rather to talk to people on the
and a focus on improving the root ground, where they live, listen
causes of immigration is going to to what their experience is, and
take years.” what they believe is needed for
“Our nation is big enough to things to get better.”
handle the effects of that. But The Church must be delivering
the moment that we start to get a prophetic witness on immigra-
uncomfortable with the numbers tion, he said.
[of immigrants], we can’t just “We’ve heard rhetoric that
fall back on the easy ‘answer’ of leads people into a great deal of
various kinds of enforcement,” fear. And that fear shuts off the
he added. The bishop emphasized desire to really understand what
that the United States should is happening, or to respond to the
welcome migrants while also need,” he said.
working “perseveringly” to im- “So it’s really important for the
prove the situation in their home Church to be involved in this, as
countries. she needs to be involved when-
ever there’s a situation where Bishop Seitz and the Director of the Hope Border Institute, Dylan Corbett await the arrival of Vice President
Bishop Seitz said that at Fri-
human beings are suffering, poor, Kamala Harris in El Paso on June 25. Photo Courtesy of Dylan Corbett.
day’s roundtable, he mentioned
his personal experience on the vulnerable – that’s where Jesus
issue of immigration, having par- would be.”
Continuado de la Pg. 1 tales de la inmigración va a tomar Monseñor Seitz dijo que en debe pensar de la misma manera, gración, dijo.
advirtió a los que estaban pensan- años.” la mesa redonda del viernes dijo. “Hemos escuchado una retóri-
do en emigrar a Estados Unidos “Nuestra nación es lo sufici- mencionó su experiencia personal “Y, por supuesto, si realmente ca que lleva a la gente a tener
que no hicieran el “peligroso” entemente grande como para sobre el tema de la inmigración, creemos que se trata de personas mucho miedo. Y ese miedo apaga
viaje, diciendo: “No vengan. No manejar sus efectos. Pero en el al haber participado en viajes como tú y yo, que no sólo tienen el deseo de entender realmente lo
vengan. Estados Unidos seguirá momento en que empecemos a misioneros parroquiales a México inteligencia sino dignidad huma- que está pasando, o de responder
aplicando nuestras leyes y asegu- sentirnos incómodos con las ci- y Centroamérica como sacerdote. na”, añadió, “no deberíamos ir a la necesidad”, dijo.
rando nuestra frontera”. fras [de inmigrantes], no podem- Señaló que en los viajes de como nación y decir simplemente “Así que es realmente impor-
Monseñor Seitz dijo que la os recurrir a la “respuesta” fácil misión, “íbamos con una noción ‘esto es lo que vamos a hacer tante que la Iglesia se involucre
administración y los líderes de diversos tipos de aplicación muy americana de que íbamos a para arreglaros’, sino hablar con en esto, como tiene que involu-
políticos tienen que entender que de la ley”, añadió. El obispo hizo arreglar las cosas”. la gente sobre el terreno, donde crarse siempre que haya una situ-
“este sistema roto de inmigración hincapié en que Estados Unidos “Llegué a comprender que viven, escuchar cuál es su experi- ación en la que los seres humanos
no se va a arreglar de la noche debe acoger a los inmigrantes y ellos [los residentes] saben lo que encia y qué creen que se necesita estén sufriendo, sean pobres, sean
a la mañana, y un enfoque en la al mismo tiempo trabajar “con necesitan mejor que nosotros”, para que las cosas mejoren”. vulnerables: ahí es donde estaría
mejora de las causas fundamen- perseverancia” para mejorar la dijo. La Iglesia debe dar un testi- Jesús”.
situación en sus países de origen. Estados Unidos, como nación, monio profético sobre la inmi-
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
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FATHER! the healing of anyone that has been harmed.
Fr. Jose Eulalio Gomez Martinez OFM 7/07 La diócesis ofrece asistencia a las víctimas de abusos sexuales
Fr. Edilberto “Beto” Lopez 7/10 El Obispo Mark J. Seitz invita a cualquier persona que haya sido víctima de abuso sexual por parte de
Fr. Kennon Y. Ducre 7/14 un sacerdote, diácono, religioso o cualquier ministro de la iglesia, a contactar a la Coordinadora de
Fr. Juan Francisco Figueroa Moran, OFM 7/18 Asistencia a las Víctimas, la Sra. Susan Martínez LCSW, al (915) 872-8465 o a la Oficina de la Can-
Fr. James W. Kofski MM 7/19 cillería, (915) 872-8407. La Iglesia desea la curación de cualquiera que haya sido dañado.
Fr. Antonio Lasheras, OAR 7/20
Fr. Manuel R. Martinez (Extern) 7/30
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The Rio Grande Catholic Diocesan News July 2021 - 5
Priests of the Diocese Retire after Decades of Service
By Sofia Larkin
Major Gifts Officer
Among the clergy appoint-
ments announced in May by
Bishop Mark J. Seitz, D.D., was
the retirement of two diocesan
priests, while one religious order
priest, Rev. William Donnelly,
MM, is returning to the mother-
house of the Maryknolls in New
York.
The priests set to retire are
Rev. Raúl Trigueros and Rev.
Msgr. David Fierro.
Fr. Raúl Trigueros began his
religious vocation as a Francis-
can. He was ordained on June 13,
1969 and spent the first ten years
of his priesthood in Michoacán,
Mexico, working at missions and
schools.
A transfer to El Paso to assist
at St. Anthony Seminary helped
him see that he was more suited
for a diocesan ministry than liv-
ing in community as a religious
order priest. He asked Bishop
Patrick Flores, D.D. (1978-1979)
for permission to remain, and
was eventually incardinated to
the Diocese of El Paso by Bishop
Raymundo J. Pena, D.D.
Fr. Raúl’s 52 years of priest- The priests that have retired after decades of service are Rev. Raúl Trigueros and Rev. Msgr. David Fierro. Photos by Fernie Ceniceros
ly service includes diocesan
director of communication for 14
years, vicar, and parishes across
the diocese, including Cristo Rey
pine, began his formation at St. Cathedral, rector of St. Charles He shared that he was privi- retire, and wishes both men hap-
for 15 years.
Charles Seminary in El Paso with Seminary, and pastor of parishes leged to be there for parishioners piness and good health.
He asks that the faithful in the
Rev. Trini Fuentez† and Msgr. across the Diocese of El Paso, in their joyful moments—wed- “We are grateful to Fr. Raúl
Diocese of El Paso support their
Arturo Bañuelas (St. Mark), and including Mother Cabrini and St. dings and baptisms—and in their and Msgr. David for close to a
new pastors and help them as
completed major seminary at Matthew. He’s also experienced sad moments as well. century of combined years of
they make their transitions.
Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio. his share of challenges. During Msgr. David said, “Please serving and mentoring priests
“I want to give thanks to
He was ordained to the priest- his time at the Cathedral, a light- pray for me and help me pray and seminarians in the Diocese
everyone because they helped
hood by Bishop Sidney Matthew ning bolt struck the steeple and for more vocations so others will of El Paso.”
form me as a priest. Be faithful
Metzger, STD, JCD (1942-1978) set it on fire during a thunder- come after me.” The appointments became
to your parish and help the pastor
on June 19, 1976. storm on May 17, 1988. Very Rev. Ben Flores, Vicar effective on Thursday, July 1,
who has been assigned to you,”
In his 45 years of priesthood, “It’s been a long journey and General for the Diocese of El 2021.
he said.
Msgr. Fierro served as vicar, I’m happy to retire”, and adds, Paso, expressed that he is happy
Msgr. Fierro, a native of Al-
chancellor, rector of St. Patrick “I’m not gone, I’ll be around!” for his brother priests who will
Sacerdotes De La Diócesis Se Jubilan Tras Décadas De Servicio
Por Sofia Larkin en misiones y escuelas. Diócesis de El Paso apoyen a sus monseñor Fierro ha sido vicario, Monseñor David dijo: “Por
Oficial de Donativos Mayores Un traslado a El Paso para nuevos pastores y los ayuden en canciller, rector de la catedral de favor, recen por mí y ayúdenme
asistir al Seminario de San su transición. San Patricio, rector del seminar- a rezar por más vocaciones para
Entre los nombramientos del Antonio le ayudó a ver que era “Quiero dar las gracias a todos io de San Carlos y párroco de que otros vengan después de mí”.
clero anunciados en mayo por el más adecuado para un minis- porque han ayudado a formarme parroquias en toda la diócesis de El Rev. Ben Flores, Vicario
obispo Mark J. Seitz, D.D., está terio diocesano que para vivir como sacerdote. Sean fieles a su El Paso, incluidas las de Madre General de la Diócesis de El
la jubilación de dos sacerdotes en comunidad como sacerdote parroquia y ayuden al párroco Cabrini y San Mateo. También Paso, expresó que se alegra por
diocesanos, mientras que un de una orden religiosa. Pidió que les ha sido asignado”, dijo. ha experimentado su cuota de sus hermanos sacerdotes que se
sacerdote de una orden religiosa, permiso al Obispo Patrick Flores, Monseñor Fierro, natural de desafíos. Durante su estancia en jubilarán, y les desea a ambos
el reverendo William Donnelly, D.D. (1978-1979) para quedarse, Alpine, comenzó su formación la Catedral, un rayo cayó sobre el felicidad y buena salud.
MM, regresa a la casa madre de y finalmente fue incardinado a la en el Seminario de San Carlos de campanario y lo incendió durante “Estamos agradecidos con el
los Maryknolls en Nueva York. Diócesis de El Paso por el Obis- El Paso con el reverendo Trini una tormenta eléctrica el 17 de Padre Raúl y Monseñor David
Los sacerdotes que se jubilan po Raymundo J. Pena, D.D. Fuentez† y monseñor Arturo mayo de 1988. por cerca de un siglo de años
son el Rev. Raúl Trigueros y el Los 52 años de servicio Bañuelas (San Marcos), y com- “Ha sido un largo viaje y estoy combinados de servir y ser men-
Rev. Monseñor David Fierro. sacerdotal del P. Raúl incluyen pletó el seminario mayor en el feliz de retirarme”, y añade: “No tores de sacerdotes y seminaris-
El P. Raúl Trigueros comenzó director diocesano de comuni- Josephinum de Columbus, Ohio. me he ido, ¡estaré por aquí!”. tas en la Diócesis de El Paso”.
su vocación religiosa como fran- cación durante 14 años, vicario Fue ordenado sacerdote por el Compartió que tuvo el privile- Los nombramientos se hic-
ciscano. Fue ordenado el 13 de y parroquias en toda la diócesis, obispo Sidney Matthew Metzger, gio de estar ahí para los feligre- ieron efectivos el jueves 1 de
junio de 1969 y pasó los primer- incluyendo Cristo Rey durante STD, JCD (1942-1978) el 19 de ses en sus momentos de alegría julio de 2021.
os diez años de su sacerdocio en 15 años. junio de 1976. -bodas y bautizos- y también en
Michoacán, México, trabajando Pide que los fieles de la En sus 45 años de sacerdocio, sus momentos de tristeza.
6 - The Rio Grande Catholic Diocesan News July 2021
New Pastoral Assignments for 2021
The Most Rev. Mark Seitz, D.D., Bishop of El Paso, is pleased to announce new Christ the Savior - Fr. Glenn Carpe, Parish Administrator
pastoral assignments for various clergy serving the Catholic Diocese of El Paso, assign- Little Flower - Fr. Alfonso Bonilla, Parish Administrator
ments became effective July 1, 2021. San Lorenzo, Clint - Fr. Juan Victor Gamino, Parish Administrator - Pastor of San
Elizario *
Retirements San Pedro de Jesus Maldonado - Fr. German Alzate, Parish Administrator - Vocations
We take this opportunity to announce several Priestly Retirements: Director*
Fr. Raul Trigueros (Pastor at St. Peter & Paul), St. John (Monahans) - Fr. Mount Joseph Durai Raj, SJ., Administrator
Msgr. David Fierro (Pastor at Mother Cabrini) St. Joseph/St. Thomas (Kermit) - Fr. Charles Rajan Michael, OCD, Administrator
Fr. Bill Donnelly, MM (Parish Administrator at St. Patrick’s Canutillo & Immaculate St. Mary (Marfa) - Fr. Paul Matta, Parish Administrator - Pastor of Our Lady of
Heart of Mary in Westway). Peace, Alpine*
Thank you, good and faithful servants of God and the Church, for your many years of * Current and Continuing Assignment
Service, Joy & Sacrifice.
Parochial Assignments
Leaves/Other Our Lady of the Light and Santo Niño de Atocha - Fr. Roberto Alvarado
Fr. Saul Pacheco, Parish Admin. of San Pedro de Jesus Maldonado Parish has request- Our Lady of Peace, Alpine and St. Mary’s, Marfa - Fr. Victorino Lorezca
ed a Leave of Absence. Fr. Ed Roden, Pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas will transfer to his St. Pius X. - Fr. Wilbert Colas
home Archdiocese of Santa Fe.
Diaconate Assignments
Pastoral Assignements Corpus Christi - Deacon Carlos Rubio
Cathedral Parish of St. Patrick - Fr. James Marcus McFadin, Rector Blessed Sacrament - Deacon Sergio Legarreta•
St. Francis Xavier Mother Cabrini - Fr. Benjamin Flores-Ruiz, Pastor - Vicar General Holy Trinity - Deacon Cesar Garcia•
and Moderator of the Curia* Our Lady of Peace (Alpine, Texas) - Deacon Alfonso Coronado
Queen of Peace - Fr. Allan Alaka, Pastor La Purisima - Deacon Ignacio Torres
St. Joseph- Fr. Fabian Marquez, Pastor St. Jude - Deacon Jose William Arevalo
La Purísima - Fr. Emanuel Alcazar, Pastor St. Matthew - Deacon Astry Deraly
St. Luke - Fr. Ed Carpenter, Pastor St. Mark - Deacon Edroud Jean
Sts. Peter and Paul - Fr. Angel Maldonado, Pastor St. Peter & Paul - Loyd Divinagracia, Seminarian
St. Thomas Aquinas - Fr. Ken Ducre, Pastor • Denotes Summer Assignement
Blessed Sacrament - Fr. John Paul Manadu, Parish Administrator
Buen Pastor - Deacon Robert Guerra, Parish Administrator - Fr. Carl Quebedeaux,
CMF, - Sacramental Minister
Nuevas Asignaciones Pastorales Para 2021
El Obispo de El Paso, Mons. Mark Seitz, D.D., se complace en anunciar nuevas asig- deaux, CMF, Ministerio Sacramental
naciones pastorales para varios clérigos que sirven a la Diócesis Católica de El Paso, a Christ the Savior - P. Glenn Carpe, Administrador Parroquial
partir del 1 de julio de 2021. Little Flower - P. Alfonso Bonilla, Administrador Parroquial
San Lorenzo, Clint - P. Juan Victor Gamino, Administrador Parroquial - Pastor of
Retiros San Elizario *
Aprovechamos esta oportunidad para anunciar varias jubilaciones sacerdotales: San Pedro de Jesus Maldonado - P. German Alzate, Administrador Parroquial - Pro-
P. Raúl Trigueros (Párroco en San Pedro y Pablo), motor Vocacional*
Monseñor David Fierro (Párroco en Madre Cabrini) St. John (Monahans, Texas) - P. Mount Joseph Durai Raj, SJ., Administrador Parro-
P. Bill Donnelly, MM (Administrador Parroquial en San Patricio Canutillo y el In- quial
maculado Corazón de María en Westway, Texas). St. Joseph/St. Thomas (Kermit, Texas) - P. Charles Rajan Michael, OCD, Administra-
Gracias, buenos y fieles servidores de Dios y de la Iglesia, por sus muchos años de dor Parroquial
servicio, alegría y sacrificio. St. Mary (Marfa, Texas) - P. Paul Matta, Administrador Parroquial - Parroco de Our
Lady of Peace, Alpine*
Aucencia y Misc. * Asignación actual y continua
El Padre Saúl Pacheco, Administrador Parroquial de la Parroquia de San Pedro de
Jesús Maldonado ha solicitado una ausencia. Vicarios Parroquiales
El P. Ed Roden-Lucero, Párroco de Santo Tomás de Aquino se trasladará a su Ar- Our Lady of the Light and Santo Niño de Atocha - P. Roberto Alvarado
quidiócesis de Santa Fe. Our Lady of Peace, (Alpine,TX) and St. Mary’s, (Marfa,TX) - P. Victorino Lorezca
St. Pius X - P. Wilbert Colas
Parrocos
Catedral de St. Patrick - P. James Marcus McFadin, Rector Diáconos
St. Francis Xavier Mother Cabrini - P. Benjamin Flores-Ruiz, Parroco - Vicar General Corpus Christi - Diácono Carlos Rubio
and Moderator of the Curia* Blessed Sacrament - Diácono Sergio Legarreta*
Queen of Peace - P. Allan Alaka, Parroco Holy Trinity - Diácono Cesar Garcia*
St. Joseph - P. Fabian Marquez, Parroco Our Lady of Peace (Alpine, Texas) - Diácono Alfonso Coronado
La Purísima - P. Emanuel Alcazar, Parroco La Purisima - Diácono Ignacio Torres
St. Luke - P. Ed Carpenter, Parroco St. Jude - Diácono Jose William Arevalo
Sts. Peter and Paul - P. Angel Maldonado, Parroco St. Matthew - Diácono Astry Deraly
St. Thomas Aquinas - P. Ken Ducre, Parroco St. Mark - Diácono Edroud Jean
Blessed Sacrament - P. John Paul Manadu, Administrador Parroquial Sts. Peter and Paul - Loyd Divinagracia, Seminarista
Buen Pastor - Diácono Robert Guerra, Administrador Parroquial - P. Carl Quebe- * Denota asignación de verano
The Rio Grande Catholic Capital Campaign July 2021 - 7
Supporting Our Catholic Schools and Faith Formation
By Tina Edwards-Milam
Pledge Fulfilment Specialist
The “We Are the Body of
Christ” campaign is designed to
raise the necessary funds to sup-
port our seminarians, strengthen
our Catholic schools and reli-
gious education programs and
nourish our parish communities.
The campaign raises funds for
seminary education and diaconate
formation, Catholic education
and religious formation, and
financial assistance for parish
emergency needs and expansion.
As a community, we have
much to celebrate and be grateful
for. Our Catholic teachers are
second-to-none. Committed
and highly qualified, and they
are great role models for all of
us—servant leaders with true
hearts for our youth. We have an
obligation to look to the future The Capital Campaign raises funds for seminary education and diaconate formation, Catholic education and religious formation, and financial
as beneficiaries of a successful assistance for parish emergency needs and expansion. Photo Courtesy of the Catholic Foundation
school system to ensure our
future generations experience the
same successes.
This starts with attracting and will not be able to compete in Catholic schools with dedica- tered lives of service and faith, Bishop Mark Seitz encour-
retaining the most talented and the world the way that they will tion, diligence, care, prudence, and preparedness for service to ages us, “Now is the time, we
qualified educators. These edu- need to. When we take the time faith, and academic excellence. our Church and country. We sin- must fully respond to the call of
cators are sacrificing themselves to invest in our students, it is Except for a few weeks and cerely and with faith ask for your discipleship. Please open your
and have made a choice to work essential that we provide them an abundance of care for our support. Catholic Schools hold hearts to receive God‘s, Bound-
in our Catholic schools, connect- with solid life skills. Technology community’s health, our Catholic a place of special importance less Love. Joyfully share your
ing our children to the highest is a critical part of all of our lives, schools stayed open for students in the teaching mission of the time, talent, and treasure to help
quality of Catholic education. We and the more that we are able to to attend in person or to telecom- Church. St. John Paul II stated welcome His Kingdom for our
need to be sure we support our equip our students with reliable mute online. We have maintained that, “educational ministry is one future generations. Consider
educators to feel they can grow resources, the more we are setting our spiritual, communal, and of humanity’s most excellent making a sacrificial commitment
both professionally and spiritu- them up for a successful future. academic life in the face of this and creative activities, for it does to the Capital Campaign, “We
ally by attending workshops and Dr. Lanny Hollis, Superinten- great health threat. Now, we—as not write on inanimate material Are The Body of Christ.” With
training. dent of Catholic Schools, said, “We are the Body of Christ: but on the very spirits of human God‘s Blessings and Guidance,
We must also ensure our “The students and staff of the Sharing our Gifts for the Church beings.” Your generosity and the We Are The Body of Christ
children have the most up-to-date Catholic schools of the Diocese of Tomorrow—look ahead to collaboration are important to us campaign will succeed.”
technology and computers. This of El Paso are faithfully emerg- the future. This current diocesan so we can achieve that purpose. To make a donation, or for
is the way we navigate our cur- ing out of the worldwide Covid capital campaign will help ensure May God bless you abundantly more information, go to www.
rent world, and if our students are pandemic. We have weathered the future of our instructional and for your support and prayers for bodyofchristcampaign.com or
not equipped and prepared with the worse challenge ever to U.S. teaching excellence, Christ-cen- our mission.” call (915) 872-8412.
those resources, then our students
Apoyo A Nuestras Escuelas Católicas Y A La Formación En La Fe
By Tina Edwards-Milam un futuro exitoso. cas ocupan un lugar de especial
Pledge Fulfilment Specialist El Dr. Lanny Hollis, Super- importancia en la misión docente
intendente de Escuelas Católi- de la Iglesia. San Juan Pablo II
La campaña “Somos el Cuerpo cas, dijo: “Los estudiantes y el afirmaba que “el ministerio edu-
de Cristo” está diseñada para re- personal de las escuelas católicas cativo es una de las actividades
caudar los fondos necesarios para de la Diócesis de El Paso están más excelentes y creativas de la
apoyar a nuestros seminaristas, saliendo fielmente de la pan- humanidad, pues no escribe sobre
fortalecer nuestras escuelas católi- demia mundial de Covid. Hemos un material inanimado, sino sobre
cas y programas de educación capeado el peor desafío que han el espíritu mismo de los seres
religiosa y nutrir nuestras comu- tenido las escuelas católicas de humanos”. Vuestra generosidad
nidades parroquiales. La campaña Estados Unidos con dedicación, y colaboración son importantes
recauda fondos para la educación diligencia, cuidado, prudencia, para que podamos alcanzar ese
del seminario y la formación del fe y excelencia académica. Salvo propósito. Que Dios os bendiga
diaconado, la educación católica y por unas pocas semanas y por abundantemente por vuestro
la formación religiosa, y la ayuda La Campaña de Capital recauda fondos para la educación del seminario y la abundancia de cuidados para apoyo y vuestras oraciones por
financiera para las necesidades de la formación del diaconado, la educación católica y la formación religiosa, la salud de nuestra comuni- nuestra misión”.
emergencia y la expansión de la y la ayuda financiera para las necesidades de emergencia y la expansión de dad, nuestras escuelas católicas El obispo Mark Seitz nos
parroquia. la parroquia. Foto cortesía de la Fundación Católica permanecieron abiertas para que anima: “Ahora es el momento,
Como comunidad, tenemos los alumnos pudieran asistir en debemos responder plenamente
mucho que celebrar y agradecer. persona o teleconectarse. Hemos a la llamada del discipulado. Por
Nuestros profesores católicos son mantenido nuestra vida espiritual, favor, abran sus corazones para
insuperables. Comprometidos y comunitaria y académica frente recibir el amor ilimitado de Dios.
y han tomado la decisión de actual, y si nuestros estudiantes
altamente cualificados, son un a esta gran amenaza sanitaria. Compartid con alegría vuestro
trabajar en nuestras escuelas no están equipados y prepara-
gran modelo para todos nosotros: Ahora, nosotros -como “Somos el tiempo, talento y tesoro para ayu-
católicas, conectando a nuestros dos con esos recursos, entonces
líderes serviciales con un ver- Cuerpo de Cristo: Compartiendo dar a dar la bienvenida a Su Reino
hijos con la más alta calidad de nuestros estudiantes no serán
dadero corazón para nuestros nuestros dones para la Iglesia del a nuestras futuras generaciones.
educación católica. Tenemos que capaces de competir en el mundo
jóvenes. Tenemos la obligación mañana- miramos hacia el futuro. Considere hacer un compromiso
asegurarnos de apoyar a nuestros de la manera que necesitarán.
de mirar al futuro como beneficia- Esta campaña de capital dioce- de sacrificio a la Campaña de
educadores para que sientan que Cuando nos tomamos el tiempo
rios de un sistema escolar exitoso sana actual ayudará a asegurar el Capital, “Somos el Cuerpo de
pueden crecer tanto profesional de invertir en nuestros alumnos,
para asegurar que nuestras futuras futuro de nuestra excelencia en Cristo”. Con las bendiciones y la
como espiritualmente asistiendo a es esencial que les proporcione-
generaciones experimenten los la instrucción y la enseñanza, las guía de Dios, la campaña Somos
talleres y formación. mos unas sólidas habilidades para
mismos éxitos. vidas de servicio y fe centradas El Cuerpo de Cristo tendrá éxito”.
También debemos asegurarnos la vida. La tecnología es una parte
Esto comienza con la atracción en Cristo, y la preparación para el Para hacer una donación, o para
de que nuestros niños tengan la fundamental de nuestras vidas, y
y retención de los educadores servicio a nuestra Iglesia y país. más información, vaya a www.
tecnología y los ordenadores más cuanto más podamos equipar a
más talentosos y calificados. Pedimos sinceramente y con fe bodyofchristcampaign.com o
actualizados. Esta es la forma en nuestros estudiantes con recursos
Estos educadores se sacrifican su apoyo. Las Escuelas Católi- llame al (915) 872-8412.
que navegamos en nuestro mundo fiables, más les prepararemos para
8 - The Rio Grande Catholic July 2021
SIDEWALK JESUS
Continuing The Challenge To Be Kind
to follow that young boy’s wise the car, but a furrow creased her ings He gives us, why don’t we to bed, the parents sat on the pa-
advice and begin helping other forehead as she tried to figure take these dinners to our elderly tio. “Now that things are open-
people again,” he said, sitting a out her husband’s wink before neighbors?” she suggested. ing up again, what do you think
bit taller in his chair. he had rushed out the door. She “They’ll like that!” both chil- about having a potluck dinner
“I’d like to do that,” his wife shook her head and returned her dren shouted. party for the neighborhood?”
quietly responded as she sat attention to the pot of spaghetti A few days later, their father the wife asked her husband.
down in the chair next to her sauce simmering on the stove. found the two children sorting “We have enough room so that
Janet M. Crowe husband and took his hands
in her own. “But we haven’t
Not too much later, three
tired but smiling car washers
through the toys in their room
and putting some of them in a
it wouldn’t be crowded here in
our back yard. We’ve been so
received our regular paychecks came in the back door, and she separate pile. He teased, “That’s busy that we barely even know
these past few months and most helped dry off the little ones an interesting way to clean up the families living around us.
“This year has been filled of the things we did during before they dripped puddles your room, little ones.” I’ll make up some fliers and the
with some really difficult the El Paso Challenge cost us through the house. “Would you “Oh, Papa,” Angela reassured children and I will take them
times,” muttered the man to his money. We paid for a family’s like a cookie after all your hard him, “we’ll put them away around to everyone.”
wife. dinner one night and donated work?” she asked her children. after we take out the baby toys “That would be wonderful,”
She wrapped her arms around money to the food bank and “No thanks, Mama,” said Car- that we are too old to play with agreed her husband. “I also
her husband’s shoulders and things like that. I want to help, los. “The lady next door gave anymore.” know what else you’re think-
held him tightly. “It has been but we don’t have extra mon- us a cookie after we washed her Seeing his father’s confused ing.” He squeezed her hand
almost a year since that dev- ey to spend right now,” she car.” look, Carlos explained, “Mama and added, “You know there
astating attack on our city last worried. “You washed our neighbor’s talked to some people up the are probably several families
August,” she sighed. “I didn’t A small whirlwind of energy car?” asked his mother. street and found out that they who need a helping hand during
think things could get worse carried on two sets of little legs “Yes,” answered Angela, “and are going to have a new baby.” these trying times. Working
than that, but this year has over- burst into the room, interrupting she seemed lonely so we talked About that time, his wife together with some of the other
flowed with problems.” the couples’ discussion. to her while Papa finished came down the hallway. “They neighbors, we could make sure
“You’re right, our city was “Papa, mama, can we run washing her car.” were both laid off from their that everyone got the help they
shattered by a terrible act of ha- through the sprinkler?” shout- “Papa talked to the old man jobs during the pandemic and need.”
tred,” he agreed. “However, do ed little Carlos and Angela in across the street too,” Carlos haven’t found new ones yet,” She smiled at him, “I knew
you remember how we recov- unison. “Please?” added as he wrapped himself in she explained. “We also went you were a clever guy when I
ered from that tragedy?” “I think I have a better idea,” the towel, “and he’s going to let through the children’s baby married you.”
“The wisdom of a child their father said. He winked at us wash his car tomorrow.” clothes and found some that are “Because I was clever enough
helped the entire community his wife and grabbed a bucket While the children changed still good and will fit a new- to marry you,” he answered.
to heal,” she said with a smile. and some rags from under the out of their wet swimsuits, born. Plus, I called the church “It’s a great idea. Let’s continue
“One little boy challenged ev- kitchen sink. “Last night’s rain Mama gave Papa a hug and a office to ask about baby diapers, the challenge to spread kindness
eryone to do one act of kindness covered the car with muddy wink. Before they sat down to formula and other necessities, to others so that no one feels
for each life lost. After going speckles. How about if we wash a delicious dinner of spaghetti and they gave me the Reverence like a victim and all of us can
out of their way to be kind and the car?” and garlic bread, she ladled out for Life number to call.” heal our hearts and our lives by
find ways to brighten the lives Mama smiled as she looked generous helpings of noodles He hugged his wife and told helping one another.”
of others, everyone’s attitude out the window to see her hus- and sauce into two plastic con- his children how proud he was
seemed to change from victim band and children spraying each tainers. “Children, before we of their willingness to share.
to healer.” other as much as they sprayed thank God for the many bless- Later, after the children went
“Maybe we should continue
Challenging the Establishment on Childhood Gender Transitions
and financial redress. As these it and have the weight lifted off children, they will often do so with their biological sex. Those
intrepid individuals challenge your shoulders.” under pressure from clinicians studies indicate at least 67 per-
the status quo, they are becom- She stopped taking the cross- and professional societies like cent of gender diverse children
ing known as “trans-desisters” sex hormones at age 22 and the American Academy of Pedi- cease wanting to transition
or “detransitioners.” says she has come to accept atrics (AAP). by puberty as long as “gender
When Keira was 16 and being female now. She remains Keira and other detransition- affirmation” approaches are not
struggling with gender dyspho- upset, however, about what had ers insist that extended wait- pursued or advocated.
ria, she was referred to the Ta- happened to her over the last ing periods, with appropriate Keira sums up her experience
Fr. Tad Pacholczyk vistock Clinic and was almost decade. questioning and challenging of this way: “I look back with
immediately launched down the “I was allowed to run with young people, need to occur a lot of sadness. There was
medical path. After three one- this idea that I had, almost like as part of a good psychother- nothing wrong with my body. I
hour long visits to the medical a fantasy, as a teenager.... and it apeutic response to claims of was just lost and without proper
A 23-year-old woman named facility, she was prescribed pu- has affected me in the long run gender dysphoria. The AAP, support. Transition gave me
Keira Bell recently brought a berty blockers, powerful drugs as an adult.” meanwhile, strongly discourag- the facility to hide from myself
pivotal lawsuit against the Na- that delay the development of Vulnerable young people, es such approaches, telling pe- even more than before. It was a
tional Health Services Gender signs of puberty. In an inter- caught up in the pressure of diatric primary care providers, temporary fix.”
Identity Development Clinic view with the British Broad- the moment, have too easily in an official statement, “to be These first-hand testimonies
in London, better known as the casting Corporation, she stated been drawn into life-altering a reliable source of validation, from brave and outspoken
Tavistock Clinic. Keira expe- that there hadn’t been adequate pathways involving medica- support, and reassurance,” and detransitioners like Keira Bell
rienced significant personal investigation or therapy prior to tions and scalpels with their exclusively to pursue “affirma- should prompt us to listen
harm from puberty blockers, that stage. frequently irreversible effects. tion-based approaches” for chil- closely to their stories and
testosterone and an operation to “I should have been chal- Puberty blockers, cross-sex dren’s mental health services, beware of “affirmation-based
remove her breasts. She claims lenged on the proposals or the hormones and complex surger- including pharmacological and approaches” that often cloak
the medical staff at the clinic claims that I was making for ies can all lead to permanent surgical interventions. the betrayal of our gender-con-
failed to challenge her seriously myself,” she said. “I think that damage, even the destruction of As James Cantor, Director of fused youth.
about her decision as a teen- would have made a big differ- a young person’s reproductive the Toronto Sexuality Centre, Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk,
ager to transition to a male. In ence.” organs and fertility. noted in a critical review of Ph.D. earned his doctorate in
a landmark ruling delivered in Later she was prescribed the Now in her early 20s, Keira the AAP statement, “Although neuroscience from Yale and did
December 2020, a British court male hormone testosterone, to soberly observes, “I’m very almost all clinics and profes- post-doctoral work at Harvard.
upheld her claim that she’d help her develop male features young. I’ve only just stepped sional associations in the world He is a priest of the diocese of
been rushed through gender like a beard, moustache and a into adulthood and I have to use what’s called the watchful Fall River, MA, and serves as
reassignment without proper deep voice. A few years later deal with this kind of burden or waiting approach to helping the Director of Education at
safeguards. she underwent a mastectomy. radical difference.” gender-diverse children, the The National Catholic Bioeth-
Keira represents the leading “Initially I felt very relieved Parents have a serious obli- AAP statement instead reject- ics Center in Philadelphia. See
edge of a new class of young and happy about things, but I gation to protect their children ed that consensus, endorsing www.ncbcenter.org and www.
people struggling with gender think as the years go on, you from the gender-reassignment gender affirmation as the only fathertad.com.
dysphoria who, as they become start to feel less and less en- industry, which profits hand- acceptable approach.”
adults, are starting to push back thusiastic or even happy about somely from the lucrative, long The available studies reveal,
against various “gender affir- things.” term hormone prescriptions and moreover, that the majority of
mation” interventions perpetrat- “You can continue to dig the multiple complex surgeries. pre-adolescent children who
ed against them, even, in some yourself deeper into this hole or When parents give consent for present as “trans” eventually re-
cases, seeking legal recourse you can choose to come out of cross-sex interventions on their vert to the identity that accords
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