St. Mary's Catholic Church

Can we celebrate a Quinceañera in Lent?

2009-03-21T11:43:00.003-05:00

Some discerning parishioners have asked if we can celebrate a Quinceñera in Lent. The answer is that we MUST celebrate a Quinceañera not only in Lent, but any time of the year. Why is this so? Because we do not care about the party, we care about LIFE. Anytime a young girl, or boy who wishes to celebrate their 15th birthday walk down the isle of the Church, we are immediately placed before the presence of God, whom we call the "Giver of Life". We owe to God every single act of gratitude for the gift of life we have received. The Eucharist is the most perfect gift of gratitude we can offer to God. Precisely, the word "Eucharist" is a Greek word which means "Thanksgiving". When we gather in Church we are thanking God for all His benefits, and the most important is LIFE. We must celebrate not only a Quinceañera, but also every time we have a birthday. That is not enough, we must celebrate every single day the fact that we are still alive and able to offer to God the fruits of that day. If you fail to see that the LIFE component of the Quinceañera is what really matters, then you got the wrong picture. Lent is a sacred time and LIFE is the most sacred of gifts. It is only right that we turn to God in reverence and love and thank Him for this gift.

New Hall Rental Policy

2009-02-06T10:09:00.001-06:00

In the interest of operational management of St. Mary's Hall these policies and guidelines will be strictly adhered to.

The Hall Administration Committee will be in charge of keeping Hall key and will be responsible for opening and closing the Hall for parties who have leased or have loan of the premises.
The Hall Committee will be responsible for inspecting the Hall and make certain the Hall is clean and property within the premises is left in good condition and accounted for. The Hall must be left in proper standing after it is used by responsible lessee or loan party.
A rental agreement or a non-rental agreement must be signed by leasing or loan party. St. Mary's Parish Hall is rented for the amount of amount of $175.00. Any damage incurred to any of the property within the premises will be the responsibility of the lessee, and lessee will pay the amount of damages incurred.
The rental agreement will require a $75.00 deposit for person leasing the Hall. The total amount of $250.00 must be fully paid at time of signing Hall contract. This deposit will be forfeited if the Hall is not cleaned as stated on rental/loan contract. These specifications are as follows:
a. Clean kitchen
b. Mop floor (kitchen, Hall and bathrooms)
c. Scrub grill if used
d. Assure bathrooms are in working order, floors mopped, trash cans clean.
Church organizations who do not pay a rental, a non-rental agreement will be signed by the head of the organization. This agreement will stipulate the organization is responsible for any breakage or damage to property within the premises and will agree to pay for damages incurred. Also, organization will clean Hall and return it in the same condition Hall was when it was borrowed. A donation is requested from borrower to cover the cost of utilities.
The Lessee will be responsible for any mishaps or injuries incurred while using the Hall. St. Mary’s Church will not be held liable for such mishaps or injuries. It is the sole responsibility of the lessee or responsible party using Church Hall.
A physical inventory will be taken by the Hall Committee of all the property within the premises for property accountability. All property within the premises should remain in the Hall. Chairs, tables or other property within the hall will not be not be loaned out and will not leave church premises.
PLEASE NOTE: NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES WILL BE ALLOWED INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE PREMISES.

Restoring our Lady

2009-01-23T19:00:00.001-06:00

Mario Rivera, Parish Council Vice-President and Leo Salgado, member of the Knights of Columbus, have been found today working at the Grotto of Our Lady. The Grotto needed special attention and both Mario and Leo have taken it upon themselves to do something about it. Soon the Grotto will be surrounded by small lights which will be make the Church stand out at night. Thank you for all the small things you do to make our parish beautiful.

Silent Faith

2009-01-16T21:55:00.007-06:00

Silent faith is sometimes more eloquent than speech. Michael Tschampl came among us in silence and left also in silence. He was here for a brief period of time, the recipient of a grant from the Chinati Foundation. He was loyal to his duties which made him come to the Spanish Mass in order to fulfill his Sunday obligation. He struggled with the language, nonetheless, he was there to offer an uplifting smile to those he greeted. When he had enough time, he lingered in prayer after the liturgy. His testimony of silent love spoke to our heart loud and clear. He participated in the few events we had. He was able to share a part of himself when the occasion permitted it. He was truly a Universal Christian (a Catholic)! We are grateful to you Michael for bringing the light of your presence to us. Like an angel that raises us to God, you showered your goodness over us.

Parish Council Meeting January 12, 2009

2009-01-12T22:00:00.000-06:00

Father Rolando brought a training video for all to watch. The video explained the role of the parish council within the parish. This is the first part of four training sessions that the council will watch.
After the training session Sister Margie suggested that everyone on the council should come up with a mission statement as homework for our next meeting. At that time we will discuss the ideas and come up with one mission statement for our parish.
General discussion & consideration:
Father informed the council that the parish hall committee will meet this Friday to come up with the rules for use of the hall. Their hope is to have this ready to present to the council at their next meeting.
Discussion was also held regarding the creation of a chairman for a bereavement committee and asking for volunteers to help with this ministry. The bank reconciliation, income report, & expense report were presented for review. A more detailed report will follow next month listing the various bank accounts which the parish has available.
Father Rolando informed the council that he had received a $2,000 donation. The donation is to be applied toward replacing the altar flooring with wood. A discussion was held about this project and whether there were other projects that needed our attention first. Sister Margie brought up the amount of leaking that was going on at the church every time there is a good rain. The council discussed contacting Charles Terry Company to look at the roof and tell us what needed to be done and provide an estimate. Also discussed was the grotto at the front of the church. Everyone present agreed that we want to clean it up and get the lighting back on the grotto. It is a real feature of our church and we want to highlight it for the community.
The council would like to prepare a list of all the projects that need to be undertaken. A plan of action to address the most pressing needs whether they are repairs or new projects will be prepared.
The next parish council meeting will be on Monday, February 2, 2009 at 6:00p.m.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Sister Margie led the closing prayer.

Service in the Church

2009-01-09T19:44:00.001-06:00

Jesus has come to serve. He shows us how to serve first by washing the feet of the Apostles. Furthermore, He tells us, that if we are not willing to serve, there is no room in His Kingdom for us. He set the example and we are to follow. Service flows out of a loving heart. Service is the translation of Grace in our hearts. When we serve we let others see how strong our commitment to God is, and how willing we are to be a true disciple of Christ. We may ask in which ways can we serve in our Church. The answer will be that all of our beings must be willing to serve. We must serve with our thoughts by wishing well upon others. We must serve with our tongues not by lashing out harsh criticism, but by engaging in a constructing dialogue. We must serve with our hands by keeping our Church clean. We must serve with our feet by taking communion to the sick, for example. Sin is the opposite of service. When we turn around and attack someone who serves, we are really embracing a sinful attitude. If you open your mouth to poison some else’s heart, you are doing a dis-service. Instead to appreciating the goodness of any given person, the effort and dedication to serve in the Church, just because something is not of your liking, you let your criticism flow like the amazon river. It is indeed shameful that anyone in our Beloved Catholic Church should dare to even point a finger to anyone who is trying to serve. Instead to pointing out your finger, please sit down to reflect how are you serving in our Church. What is your service to God, to Christ and to your brothers and sisters like? Why don’t you start by giving witness of your intention to serve? Withdraw your tongue. Withdraw your unchristian thoughts. May your tongue be found ready to praise, to offer help, to serve God with love. Run to offer help. Vow before dedication and let your heart be filled with loving support. Do not let yourself forget, ever, that we are here to serve, and even with all that we do, Jesus reminds us that we are only poor servants.

New Parish Council Celebration

2008-12-16T21:49:00.002-06:00

Tonight the new Parish Council got together with the previous parish council to celebrate the election of new members and also, in a spirit of Christmas, to open our hearts to Jesus who comes to enlighten us. Our meeting started in the library and then we moved to Alice's Cafe where we had a nice meal. God bless you all.

Youth for Christ Gathering

2008-09-20T16:49:00.005-05:00

Our first Marfa Youth for Christ gathering consisted of fourteen teens. We began our gathering with prayer and served them a meal consisting of delicious grilled burgers and cake for dessert. After our meal, a discussion was held regarding having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and each teen was asked to reflect on where they are today in their lives. Their thoughts were individually sealed and will be opened in three months. This will provide them with an opportunity to reflect on their spiritual growth and understanding.

The parable of the Prodigal Son was read and each group was asked to prepare a skit based on similar stories in the 21st Century. They focused on how we might not always make the right decisions, but that our loving Father will always have His arms open to forgive us. It was a wonderful evening spent together in the name of Jesus Christ. An open awareness that He is always by our side, through the good and bad, and ready to open His arms wide open for us always!

We welcome all of our 9th-12th grade teens to join us at 6:00 pm Sunday evenings at our parish hall.

Parish Council Meeting

2008-09-09T22:58:00.001-05:00

Members present: Father Rolando, Genevieve Bassham, Linda Gutierrez, Roy Cataño, Tina Lujan, Teresa Juarez, and Victoria Sanchez
Opening prayer was led by Father Rolando Minutes of July 22, 2008 Tina Lujan moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion to approve the minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously.
Financial Report Linda Gutierrez presented the financial reports for the months of April, May, June and July. The financial report for the month of June represents the final report for the 2007-2008 parish fiscal-year. July 1st marks the beginning of the new fiscal year.
Mrs. Gutierrez reported that the cathedraticum assessment percentage increased from 11% to 13.5%. This went into effect on July 1st. Also, the parish will no longer be responsible for paying the retirement contribution as the Diocese of El Paso will cover the cost. The property insurance premium decreased from $620.00 to $600.00.
Genevieve Bassham moved and Roy Cataño seconded the motion to approve the financial reports for the months of April, May, June and July as presented. The motion carried unanimously.
Establishment of Marfa Youth for Christ Account Vickie Sanchez requested approval to establish a Marfa Youth for Christ checking account to record and deposit all funds raised for the youth program and pay for travel and other program costs. Father Rolando and Linda Gutierrez recommended that the checking account be a separate account so as to not mingle funds with other parish activities. The checking account will be established at the Marfa National Bank. The account will be listed under St. Mary’s Parish – Marfa Youth for Christ. Checks issued will require two signatures, and a monthly report will be provided. Genevieve Bassham moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion to approve the establishment of the St. Mary’s Parish – Marfa Youth for Christ checking account as requested. The motion carried unanimously.
Update on Facility Projects Church Doors – Roger Garcia has completed one door and is currently working on the second door. Parish Hall Air Conditioning – Roy Cataño and Vickie Sanchez both reported that the a/c units worked well when they used the hall on two separate occasions. Confessional Door – Father reported that the stained glass door is still in the production process. Father recently received a proof on the design, that he signed and returned. The door will be delivered from San Antonio to Marfa when it is complete. It was agreed that the supplies for a new sign to be placed at the front of the church is not a priority at this time. This will be addressed at another time.
General Discussion and Consideration
Parish Bazaar – Father reported that the parish bazaar will be held October 2009. This will provide the parish plenty of time to designate a coordinator and properly plan for the event. Once a coordinator is named, a committee may be established to help with the planning. Roy Cataño offered his help in setting up the booths, and Genevieve Bassham and Teresa Juarez also offered their assistance in preparing for the bazaar. Sister Margie purchased four tents for prior bazaars that may be used as well.
An announcement will be place in the bulletin that the parish is looking for a coordinator for the event.
Youth for Christ Program – Father reported that the Youth for Christ program has requested the use of the parish hall to meet each Sunday. The youth group will look for an alternate meeting place when the hall is being used for fundraisers or other events. It was agreed that the Youth for Christ Program may meet at the parish hall.
A site on the Internet will be developed under the Marfa Youth for Christ program. The site will be used as a means of communication for the program and to reach other teens in the hope of encouraging them to join. Written permission from the parents will be on file before pictures of the youth are posted and the site will be reviewed by Father Rolando.
A healing service will be held on Thursday, September 11th. A special presentation has been prepared by Father Rolando. Procedures were discussed in electing the next four council members. Four members are to be elected by the congregation and four will be appointed by Father Rolando. A call for nominations will take place this Sunday. The eight parishioners with the most nominations will be placed on the ballot. On election day, the congregation will vote for four of the eight nominees. The four nominees with the most votes will serve as members of the parish council for the next two years as will the four members appointed by Father Rolando.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 30 at which the both the current and new parish council will attend.
Genevieve Bassham moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 6:42 pm.

First Encounter with Youth

2008-09-08T22:48:00.008-05:00

We had five parents (3 sets of father/mother and two mothers only) plus 11 teens. We had a couple of little brothers and sisters. There were several parents and students that were out of town but mentioned that they are interested in joining us. Overall, the luncheon went well. The parents in attendance were extremely supportive. The teens requested that we begin meeting at 11:30 each Sunday---after mass. That is a good sign.

Johnny mentioned to them that he would like to begin working with them so they may begin serving during mass, such as ushers when the congregation goes up to communion, and anything else that you might like to see them do.

From what we could gather, their perception of a youth mass is Sunday at 10:am. There are too many activities taking place on Saturdays and their attendance might not be great - I think we are barely squeaking by on Sundays, but we hope that will change soon. They are also looking at singing some songs to play during mass when ready. This will probably take a while to get started, but this is what we are looking at so far.

One more thing, we would like for them to have a "place of their own". In other words, a location within our parish grounds that they may connect to. The parish hall would be perfect for us. There will be a stage for them to practice on, bathrooms and the kitchen for snacks and drinks we will have for them. The front of the parish would also be perfect for outdoor prayers and gatherings. The tree does provide shade and plenty of space for them. I know that the parish is often reserved for funerals, fund raisers, etc. We will definitely honor and respect this. I am willing to keep in constant communication with the parish office and move our gatherings when the hall is being used. We would also provide our own snacks and will clean up after ourselves. I really don't see us meeting at 11:30 for long. I would expect for them to eventually request a 5:00 or 6:00 pm but we will let them decide.

Minutes of Meeting for April 29, 2008

2008-05-22T15:56:00.003-05:00

Members present: Father Rolando, Rito Rivera, Tina Lujan, Genevieve Bassham, Linda Gutierrez, and Teresa Juarez

I. Opening prayer was led by Father Rolando

II. Letter of Commendation to the Parish CouncilFather Rolando read the letter of commendation from John Stowe to the Parish Council in reference to the recommendations suggested from the 2006-2007 Audit Report. The letter was favorable and expressed Mr. Stowe’s appreciation of the Parish for it’s attentiveness to the recommendations.

III. Minutes of February 11, 2008Genevieve Bassham moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion to approve the minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously.

IV. Financial ReportLinda Gutierrez presented the financial report to the Council members. She indicated that a check for $10,000 had been received for reimbursement for the repairs for the Confessional. This deposit was not yet accounted for on this financial report, so that will help the account balance.

Linda Gutierrez reported that with three projects going on at the same time (Confessional, Church re-wiring and the apartment repairs) the account was depleted. The financial report shows an ending balance of $(6,503.17). Her recommendation on future projects is to ensure that we the funds in hand before we start the project. Weekly collections cover only salary, utilities and small expenditures that come up, there is not any surplus money that can be used for repairs or projects.

President Rivera discussed the financial report more in depth and asked questions about the expenses and income.

Linda Gutierrez reported that the Insurance was high in March 2008 ($1860.00) because the address was wrong on the invoice and the church was not receiving the invoices, therefore this amount was for three months.

President Rivera advised that the Council accepts the report and acknowledge that the Council was advised in the minutes.

V. Progress 2008 Update

This item was postponed until the next meeting.
President Rivera made a suggestion that we (the Parish) could have made a better effort to reach one of the goals of Progress 2008 and be eligible to receive one of the monetary awards for the church.

President Rivera asked Father Rolando if new families in the community that attend Church come in and register in the Parish. Father Rolando responded that he has not been approached.

VI. Facility Projects

a) Confessional – The Confessional is complete, the door is being manufactured. It has already been paid for.

Teresa Juarez expressed that the Confessional looks beautiful.

Father Rolando clarified that he would like “live” plants for the Confessional and that he would like to expand that idea to include plants on the altar.

b) Tree Removal – Father Rolando expressed that the tree has to go. President Rivera indicated that he would work on getting help for this project.

c) Parish Hall - President Rivera indicated that before the air conditioners are put to use for the summer months, that they need to be cleaned out and the water turned on to check for leaks. He’ll also have to check the pads.

d) Church Floor – Father Rolando mentioned that he would like to extend the tile floor from the Confessional to the entrance/hall of the church. He mentioned that Joe Uranga (person that laid the tile in the Confessional) suggested that we wait for nicer weather to install the tile in the hallway. The tile adheres better to the floor if the temperature is not cold like it was during the winter.

Father Rolando also mentioned that his thoughts for a future project would be to strip the rug off of the altar because he heard that there were wood floors under the rug that maybe could be repaired and made to look nice.

Linda Gutierrez reported that we have approximately $30,000 or less in the building fund and that the fund should not be depleted as we need money for contingency expenditures for emergency problems with plumbing, roof leaks, etc.

Father Rolando mentioned that we could institute a second collection once a month for the building fund.

Teresa Juarez mentioned that her brother-in-law owns a business that specializes in wood flooring and that maybe he would charge a minimal amount if we could get some volunteers to help with the project.

President Rivera suggested that we initiate the second collection.

e) Other - Father Rolando mentioned that the sign in front of the church needs to be re-done so that it is more noticeable.

Teresa Juarez suggested placing an add in the newspaper calling on artists in the community that may be interested in donating their time and skills to design and build the sign.

VII. General Discussion and Consideration

Agenda items for the next meeting: Fundraisers, Marfa Lights Festival and 2nd Collection.
There was a general discussion about having a Fall Festival around September 16, 2008 as a fundraiser for the church and involving other organization leaders in the discussion.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2008

VIII. Teresa Juarez moved and Genevieve Bassham seconded the motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

Parish Council Minutes for February 11, 2008

2008-03-13T10:17:00.003-05:00

Members present: Father Rolando, Rito Rivera, Dan Dunlap, Tina Lujan, Roy Cataño, Genevieve Bassham, Linda Gutierrez, Teresa Juarez, and Vickie Sanchez

Opening prayer was led by Father Rolando

2006-2007 Audit Report and Recommendations

Father Rolando presented the Report of Review conducted by the Diocese of El Paso. Observations and suggestions were reviewed and discussed with the Parish Council as noted below.

Revenues and Collections

Observation #1 – The count sheets that support the collection and counting process are not signed by all participants. Suggestion: The parish’s count sheets should include the signatures of all those involved in the count process so that it is clear that the count team members are acknowledging the amounts collected.

Council Response: All members involved in the count process will sign the count sheets.

Observation #2 – The counts and subsequent deposits are made on the Tuesday following the Sunday collections. Suggestion: Every effort should be made to have the monies from the Sunday collections counted and deposited on the following Monday.

Council Response: The parish office is closed on Mondays. Collections are maintained in a secured location and deposits are made on the first business day of the week (Tuesday) for the parish.

Observation #3 – In response to an inquiry it was noted that a husband and wife may be on one of the count teams together. Suggestion: Every effort should be made to have the teams make up be unrelated individuals.

Council Response: The number and make of volunteers as well as work schedules make it difficult to ensure that all count teams are unrelated. However, the third person on the count team is an unrelated individual.

Observation #4 – In discussing the procedures regarding the securing of collections during the Sunday mass schedule it appears that the safe, where the monies are kept until the count is made, is not locked between masses. Suggestion: The collection procedures should be reviewed to determine if the safe can be locked between masses. Many safes can be modified to allow someone to insert a money bag down a chute or opening without opening the safe itself. Then, when the count team is ready to count, the safe can be opened.

Council Response: The collection will be placed in a money bag and inserted down the chute in the parish’s lock box.

Fund Raising

Observation #1 – The parish needs to be aware of the reporting requirements of the Internal Revenue Service and certain prohibitions of the Charitable Raffle Enabling Act if it is going to use this method of fund raising. Suggestion: The use of a raffle for fund raising brings into consideration certain responsibilities to the parish in terms of reporting the winnings and withholding taxes associated with these winnings, even when the prize is not in the form of money (which is not allowed). A prize that has a fair market value in excess of $600 may require reporting using Internal Revenue Service (IRS) form W-2G. A prize in excess of $5,000 may require that a form W-2G be filed and that withholding taxes be paid calculated at 25% of the value of the prize. The parish should review its raffle procedures and ensure that it is in compliance with the Charitable Raffle Enabling Act for the State of Texas and the reporting requirements of the IRS.

Council Response: The parish does not rely solely on raffles for fund raising purposes. Raffles are held at a minimum during the year and do not award prizes that are in excess of $600.

Sacramental Offerings

Observation #1 – The parish does not have a schedule of sacramental offerings. Suggestion: Appendix F – Stole Fee Form Schedule that is included in the Manual of Policies and Procedures of Parish Finances of the Roman Catholic Diocese of El Paso should be filed and approved by the Chancery.

Council Response: The schedule of sacramental offerings is in line with the Stole Fee Form Schedule that is included in the Manual of Policies and Procedures of Parish Finances of the Roman Catholic diocese of El Paso. The fee schedule will be posted in the rectory and a copy mailed to the Chancery.

Expenditures

Observation #1 – Of the seven disbursement items tested, one was not supported by an invoice. Suggestion: It is important in maintaining controls that each disbursement be supported by adequate documentary evidence. Although, the files for invoices were well organized it is also important to ensure that files are also complete. Council Response: An invoice will be secured for all disbursements.

Finance Committee

Observation #1 – The Parish Advisory Council meets on a regular basis, keeps excellent minutes and appears very well organized. The minutes mentioned on September 11, 2006 that Mrs. Gutierrez was asked to provide a quarterly financial report; however, there was no subsequent mention of this report and whether or not it was discussed by the Advisory Council. Suggestion: The Parish Advisory Council should include as one of its regular agenda items a review of the most recently available financial statements.

Council Response: The financial report will be added as an agenda item for regular parish council meetings.

Reporting

Observation #1 – The parish has not published an Annual financial Report in the parish. The Parish does include collection information in its bulletin and on its website. Suggestion: The Manual of Policies and Procedures of Parish Finances of the Roman Catholic Diocese of El Paso indicates that an Annual Financial Report of the parish be prepared by the finance council and should be submitted to the finance office. A copy, in summary form, should be published in the parish bulletin.

Council Response: A summary report of finances will be published in the parish bulletin as required.

Bank Reconciliation

Observation #1 – The bank appears to be reconciled on a regular basis but it is not formally reviewed by anyone besides the preparer. Suggestion: The bank reconciliation should be revised by the pastor or a member of the Parish Advisory Council that is familiar with financial matters.

Council Response: The bank reconciliation will be reviewed by the Parish Administrator.

Miscellaneous:

Observation #1 – The parish participated in the ten of the special collections under the period of review. The parish submitted its records through August of 2007 in order to charge the Diocesan Assessment. The parish has no outstanding debt to the Diocese. The parish’s participation in the Progress Campaign did reach a sufficient amount to share in the contribution for 2005 but not for 2006.

The council is pleased that there is no outstanding debt to the Diocese. A collaborative effort by all will be made to communicate to the parishioners the importance of Progress 2008 and services provided with the funding.

Linda Gutierrez provided the council with a copy of the financial report for review. All agreed on the format presented. A current report will be presented at each regular council meeting.

Father Roland will provide a written response to the Diocese of El Paso conveying St. Mary’s Parish’s response to the review.

Minutes of December 11, 2007

Tina Lujan moved and Genevieve Bassham seconded the motion to approve the minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously.

Progress 2008 President Rivera reported that he received a manual and DVD that outlines Progress 2008. He stressed the importance of encouraging parishioners to participate.

New incentives are offered as follows:

1) $10,000 will be awarded to the parish with the highest percentage of the goal collected;
2) $5,000 will be awarded to the most improved parish;
3) $5,000 will be awarded to the parish with the highest percentage of registered families; and
4) $5,000 will be awarded to the parish that reaches its goal first.

Father Rolando stated that the Progress 2008 information is also available on the parish website and a presentation will be made at church after his return. Gloria Garcia is currently working on Progress 2008 and will keep up with the schedules and events.

Facility Project Update Church Re-Wiring Project

The project has been completed and a letter will be submitted to the Diocese for the final payment.

Confessional Room – Plaster –

The plastering has been completed and ceramic tile has been purchased. The tile will be installed when the weather is warmer. Ceramic tile will also be installed in the foyer.

To avoid additional damages to the church walls, Father requested that the tall cypress tree located at the front of the church be removed. If the tree is not removed, the roots will continue to grow into the adobe walls, damaging the walls and plaster. Council members Roy Cataño, Dan Dunlap and Rito Rivera offered their services in the removal of the tree.

Parish Hall – Water Leak and Heaters –

President Rivera reported that the air conditioner pipes froze, causing the water leaks. To prevent breakage due to frozen pipes, the water must be turned off for winter. President Rivera informed the council that he unfroze the pipes located above the bathroom, spliced them and repaired them. The pipes located above the kitchen will need to be repaired when the weather warms up.

Classroom A/C Unit – Woodwork -

President Rivera reported that he has painted all of the woodwork located on the outside of the building. Tina Lujan will provide President Rivera with access to the inside of the classrooms so that he may paint the woodwork inside the classrooms.

General Discussion & Consideration-

President Rivera extended his appreciated to Tina Lujan for her work with the youth and the upcoming youth rally.

Father Rolando reported that Tepeyac secured through a grant, distance learning equipment that includes a projector and screen. The equipment is to be used by the surrounding parishes for meetings, training and courses offered through distance learning. The equipment was originally sent to a parish in Pecos but had not been used. It was offered to St. Mary’s Parish and accepted by Father Rolando. The equipment is currently at our parish library. The equipment will be set-up and a conference table secured for distance learning meetings, conferences and/or training.

Father Rolando reported that Veronica Campbell will be assisting Linda Gutierrez with her duties involving parish finances. This will provide Mrs. Gutierrez with additional time to care for her mother.

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 25th.

Genevieve Bassham moved and Roy Cataño seconded the motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 7:26 p.m.

Youth Rally

2008-03-07T11:06:00.008-06:00

The Confirmation II class would like to thank the Marfa Community for their help in making the Youth Rally a success. Thanks to the Knights of Columbus for donating the money to purchase the food. Thanks to Sheriff Dominguez for cooking the food. Thanks to Sister Luz for organizing the rally. Thanks to Sister Margie, Susie from Valentine, Roy Catano, Ed Ray Catano and Paul Hunt for the wonderful music. Thanks to Parents, Sponsors and Community members that gave their time, donated money, water, sweets, etc. that was used throughout the day to feed the kids. This was truly a community effort and deeply appreciated.

Ash Wednesday

2008-02-08T00:03:00.000-06:00

We started Lent with the distribution of ashes to all our parishoners. Lent is a time to rediscover our journey of faith in this world, a time to rediscover our faith and the reasons of our existance. Ash Wednesday was a busy day. We had two funerals and three masses. Ashes were distributed at all masses. It was impressive to see the youth of the parish receive ashes at the 7:00pm mass. May the Lord bless us and help us to prepare to celebrate the Paschal Mistery.

The Formation of Group Prejudices

2008-01-12T14:16:00.000-06:00

Group prejudices form at the same time a group is established. By following the development process of a given group, one can tell that from the very beginning members are ready to accept all key ideas in the group which help to understand and to recognize all common relational stimuli; as the rapport grows, ideas become more complex to express the identity and the characteristics of the group. However, when group members regulate their relationships based on the baised perception of their rapports, the relational process then generates an static image of the group that corresponds everyone’s expectations.

In this case, all the vitality and originality of the relational reality is limited by this uniform structure of the group lending itself to the establishment of rigid or excluding rapports. At this point, any idea becomes a prejudice: it does not allow for the vital development of the group, and it depletes itself within a limited vision of reality and the community’s identity [Tausch-Tausch, 1981, 234-236].

At this point we can ask: Do I know my own prejudices? Furthermore, we can then ask: Am I aware of my community’s prejudices? If I can identify any, then we can ask: Do I join in my community’s prejudices? Do I participate in these prejudices? Am I a channel by which these prejudices can spread?

Miracles at Paisano? Yes!

2008-01-11T14:33:00.000-06:00

I thought I knew all about church retreats. After all, I’d been on more than 20 of them over the years. Then, more than 2 years ago, someone invited me to go on an A.C.T.S retreat. “A.C.T.S.?” I asked. “What’s THAT?!” “THAT” turned out to be the experience which changed my life. It all happened atthe Paisano Campground, 15 miles from Marfa. I soon learned that A.C.T.S. is an international retreat movement organized by lay people. It is faithful to Catholic teaching, spiritually powerful and a means by which even some people of lukewarm faith or troubled individuals are spiritually transformed during a 66 hour period from a Thursday evening to Sunday. There are separate retreats for men, women, and teens. Often those who attend these retreats become committed team members for future retreats. I have done just that. During these retreats I have witnessed spiritual “miracles” like my own. From January 3rdthrough January 6th of this year I was a team member on a TEEN retreat for mostly Confirmation students. This was my fourth TEEN retreat as a team member and I am still walking on air. It was apparent that all 55 who attended shared that experience. Most who are asked to attend a retreat are initially hesitant, but invariably by the end of those 66 hours, they don’twant it to end. This is a powerful experience by which the burning fire of the Holy Spirit is moving through His people. This summer there will be separate men’s and women’s retreats. Seize the next opportunity! Please get details from Bill White, A.C.T.S. Core vice president, (432) 729-4729.

Progress 2008 Campaign under Way

2008-01-10T08:55:00.001-06:00

Yanine Young came from the Foundation of the Diocese of El Paso to conduct a Training Session for local parishes to promote Progress 2008. We started at 4:30pm and finished by 7:00pm. Progress is a Diocesan Wide Ministry Program that seeks funding for various ministries in the Diocese. Every parish is supposed to contribute towards these efforts. This year, St. Mary's is expected to contribute with $7,751.00

Working Knights

2008-01-10T08:45:00.000-06:00

Here we find Roy Cataño and Leo Salgado working on the floor of the new headquarters of the Knights of Columbus. The Knights purchased a cozy mobile unit for their meetings and are hoping to attract more candidates for their ranks. If you feel inspired to become a Knight, do not hesitate to get in touch with Leo Salgado at (432) 729-4969.

The Hybrid Choir

2008-01-05T18:37:00.001-06:00

Have you seen those cars that can now run with gasoline and also with electricity? This is what this new choir makes me think of. Look... Mary Mendias and Paul Carrasco play together on Saturdays at the 5:00pm Mass. They have a story behind them. Mary says that when Paul was 8 or 10 years old, he took guitar lessons from her about a year and a half. Since then he has the highest opinion about Mary and Mary likewise has Paul in her highest esteem. What a beautiful combination. To me is like nothing short of a miracle.

But wait, there is more.... Mary told me in front of Paul that "Jesus has his eyes set on Paul". What does she mean??? We can only wonder what divine providence has in store for Paul, but that means that all of us must pray for Paul so that Jesus may do something wonderful with his life. In the meantime we are grateful with Paul because he has chosen to play with Mary and contribute to the beauty of our liturgy and worship. Many blessings to both of them.

The Formation Process of Community Prejudices

2008-01-04T15:40:00.000-06:00

We have already spoken about individual prejudices harbored by a single individual. We can now talk about not just a single person, but about a community in general. Yes, a community may be prejudiced as a group.

A prejudice is a precognitive category that influences the perception of reality. It can be characterized as a mental image sprinkled with emotional connotations of a negative nature towards an external group [Scilligo, 1991, 106]. A part of it comes from the heart, and another part comes from the mind. They both interact in the process of perception and also influence our behavior. Thus, the person perceives reality, welcomes it and then with his mind he parcels it and classifies it according to a predetermined stereotype without really defining it conceptually.

The process of formation for any prejudice lies along the cognitive and emotional development of the person. When faced with new stimuli, the human being activates a process in charge of formulating new ideas which match already socially determined categories which will grant the person recognition, acceptance and allows him/her to be welcomed into a given group.

Along with this cognitive formation there is also a emotional factor because any adaptation to reality brings about a certain level of emotional satisfaction. But while in this categorizing process the person is open to the formulation of judgements which make it easy for him/her to adapt to reality, when dealing with prejudice, the person just limits himself/herself to the reformulation of a set of conditions which will allow the person to belong to the group by means of a rigid interpretation of relationship categories. Are you perhaps embracing concealed community prejudices?

Perceptions and Prejudices (Continued)

2007-12-16T15:41:00.000-06:00

In a group context, the person is not always capable to reaching the effective knowledge of reality, especially when this person limits the knowledge derived from any rapport based upon the interpretation and application of stereotypes, thus undermining the relationships when relying upon characteristics that are not real nor significative [Gergen - Gergen 1990, 196].In this way, the person tends to filter real information, choosing the categories that will help him/her best make sense of the situation at hand. In this way the person tends to select and to remember more easily the information that match his/her own stereotypes, setting aside anything that might deny them [Brown 1989, 259].

In our Catholic surroundings, the use of labels to refer to people shows our incapacity to truly discover the uniqueness of each individual and in the long run may turn into a way of denying the richness of personal resources.

Prejudices may lead a community to adopt a certain behavior based upon the impressions of its members. The lack of real knowledge in a community environment leads people to adopt the same attitudes, opinions and behaviors, thus leveling any personal differences in favor of the group’s patterns, limiting in this fashion any creative adaptation to changing reality.

On a different note, this adaptive behavior promoted by prejudice is triggered by the need of acceptance in the group: a different behavior may lead to the expulsion from the group [Gergen - Gergen, 1990, 187].

Minutes of meeting for December 11, 2007

2007-12-11T14:26:00.000-06:00

Members present: Rito Rivera, Tina Lujan, Roy Cataño, Genevieve Bassham, Linda Gutierrez, Teresa Juarez, and Vickie Sanchez

Opening prayer was led by Tina Lujan.

Discussion and/or Change to Designated Meeting Date
Genevieve Bassham moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion that the council meeting be held on the 4th Tuesday of the month as approved at the previous meeting. The motion carried unanimously.

Council Job Description and By-Laws Addendum
Teresa Juarez moved and Genevieve Bassham seconded the motion to change the council job description and by-laws to reflect the new council meeting date (4th Tuesday of the month). The motion carried unanimously.

Facility Project Update
Update on Church Re-Wiring Project and Light Fixtures – Tabled until the next meeting.

Update on Plaster Project for Outside Wall and Confessional – It was reported that the repairs on the walls sustained the melted snow. They are moving forward with the plastering.

Paint for Indoor Church Walls – Teresa Juarez reported that Father Mike mentioned that the left over paint was placed in the room located on the left hand side of the altar. The painting of the indoor church walls was not completed due to the lack of volunteers. The council agreed that as soon as it is determined how much paint is left a call for volunteers will be made to finish painting the church.

Minutes of July 31, 2007
Genevieve Bassham moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion to approve the minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously

General Discussion & Consideration

It was requested that the roof on the parish hall kitchen be addressed at the next council meeting. Additional projects to be addressed in the future include the replacement of the woodwork around the window sills, as well as repairs and relocation of the outdoor sign.

The Knights of Columbus have resolved all issues with the zoning board regarding the location of the portable building purchased. The Knights provided written documentation that the Diocese of El Paso authorized the placement of the building. The utilities have been connected and they are just waiting on the contractor to level the building.

The heating units in the classrooms are working well. The trim around the units still needs to be painted.

The Queen of Hearts fundraiser will not be held by the Catholic Daughters of America (CDA) this year. The Queen of Hearts was the largest fundraiser for CDA and concerns regarding raising enough funds to meet their obligations were discussed. The CDA not only assists our parish with funds for different projects, they also contribute to different ministries. The association will hold fundraisers during the month of January.

The sprinkler system donated by the Knights of Columbus has been turned off for the winter. Lionel Salgado received training on how to set the timer on the sprinkler. He also has the key to the control box. Mr. Catano reported that Robert Silva stated that they did take into consideration the possibility of the sprinkler system wetting the church walls and believes that this should not be an issue.

The first set of altar decorations (banners, altar cloth, etc.) ordered by Father Rolando and purchased by generous donors has arrived. Council members expressed their appreciation to Father and the donors. Additional sets will be purchased in the near future for the various liturgical celebrations. Additional funds will need to be raised to cover the cost of the additional sets.

It was requested that the council find ways to promote Progress in January. Banners will be made as well as information distributed.

The first payment towards the electrical work at the church will be made shortly. A portion of the payment will be made locally and additional funds will be requested from the Diocese to withdraw funds from the parish building fund. The estimated cost for the completion of the electrical work is approximately $24,000.

The closing prayer was led by Genevieve Bassham.

Genevieve Bassham moved and Tina Lujan seconded the motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.

International Eucharistic Celebration

2007-12-10T17:00:00.000-06:00

This Monday, December 10th, we were invited to participate in an Eucharistic Celebration in order to remember migrant brothers & sisters. The mass as held in Ojinaga, on the Mexican side, next to the Rio Grande across from Presidio. The mass was well attended and presided by the Most Reverend Archbishop José Fernández Arteaga of Chihuaha and the Most Reverend Bishop Armando X. Ochoa from El Paso, Texas.

Perceptions and Prejudices (Continued)

2007-12-08T06:47:00.000-06:00

Relationship systems between people and the world of their neighbor are influenced from this precognitive category that distorts the cognitive process and blocks the perceptive one. The person is in contact with stimulation infiltrated by perceptive channels which in turn gets selected and classified: still the person does not grant to the perceived data any other category but that of given label [Capra-Gennaro, 1999,477-479].

In a group context, the person is not always successful in reaching an effective knowledge of reality, specially when the person limits the knowledge of relationships to the interpretation and the application of stereotypes, thus undermining any contact based upon characteristics which are not real and are not important [Gergen-Gergen, 1990,196].

The person tends to process real information, choosing the categories that will enable him/her to better understand the situation at hand. In this way the person tends to select and to remember easily the information that fits with his/her own stereotypes, thereby putting aside that any information that might not fit [Brown, 1989,259].

In community life the use of labels shows the incapacity of people to perceive others in their uniqueness and spontaneity, leading to the denial of their potential and personal resources.

Prejudices conditions community behavior by a distorted perception of the way we interact with one another and left to the whims of any given person. The lack of real knowledge of any community environment leads to the classification of opinions, behaviors and attitudes which mold any personal differences to the group’s uniform patterns, thus limiting the creative adaptation to a reality subject to change. In addition, such adaptive behavior conditioned by prejudice is motivated by the group’s need of acceptance: a different behavior could lead to the disapproval and expulsion from the group [Gergen-Gergen, 1990,187].

Questions: Is our community at large embracing certain stereotypes? Are these stereotypes conditioning the way we respond to the needs of our neighbor? What are your prejudices like?

Perceptions and Prejudices in Catholic Groups

2007-12-01T06:48:00.000-06:00

Prejudice is the predisposition of the person to classify stimuli in a given category. It is made of value patterns and structures that for the most part are fixed and hard to change. This plays a mayor role among interpersonal conflicts, conditioning the interpretation of what is being perceived and, furthermore, the person tends to put labels everywhere with the excuse of classifying and evaluating information at hand.

“Knowledge is a mechanism that structures reality based on patterns of interpretation: Interpretation involves all information coming to us from the world, from perceptions channeled by our senses in any social situation and from a more complex knowledge relative to the cultural dimension. Such patterns are the response of our need to reduce complexity, in as much natural and social reality are a fountain of never ending information - without interpretative patterns people would be paralized before the complexity of their environment. Interpretation is a process of organization. In this sense, patterns provide for the need to establish rules for individual interaction useful for cooperation and mutual understanding [Arielli-Scotto, 1998,41]”.

The relationship between prejudice and behavior is rather complex and it is not easy to propose a simplified generalization: In any case it is not about a previous fase before the act of judging because prejudice does not offer the elements that permit the passing of judgements upon the reality being perceived. Rather, this is a mental structure that replaces judgment and at the same time avoids it.

According to Allport, prejudice is the natural predisposition of human beings faced with the need to formulate generalizations in which to base their vision of the world. When the cognitive process is subjected to prejudice, it broadcasts a particular way of looking at things and to conceive the world [Allport, 1973,78]. Allport sustains that an erroneous concept becomes a prejudice when it remains unchanged even before new data taken from reality. Are you a stobburn person? Do you continue to hold the same opinion even if reality proves you wrong?

The perception Triangle (continued)

2007-11-24T06:49:00.000-06:00

A third factor limiting perception has to do with the person’s emotional state. “Every perception has always an emotional charge largely influenced by personal experience. The same happens to thoughts and interpretation of reality [Stevani, 1994, 97]”. Emotional state conditions the evaluation of perceived stimulation, leading to error when this force is hushed or it is expressed in an impulsive manner. Thus interpretation subjects the value of things to the way a person feels.

The woman in the Periquito example feels unsecured in front of her husband - indeed she feels she does not really know him well enough. She does not know if what she does is good enough. She does not have the certainty to fulfill her obligations as a wife according to the married state. The underlying risk is that she may base her relationship upon this interior insecurity.

The interpretation of what she feels for her husband is filtered by this feeling of uneasiness that robes her of any confidence and leads her to perceive her particular reality as a threat.

What kind of emotions are charging the way you see the world? When you come to church, what emotions surface in your worhip? When you pray, what emotions are behind your prayers?
Next week we will look at Perceptions and Prejudices in Catholic groups.

The Perception Triangle: Factors

2007-11-18T10:00:00.000-06:00

A second factor limiting perception is brought about by the conditioning of the perceptive capacity whenever there are unsatisfied needs. In order to satisfied his/her needs, a person concentrates on himself/herself which in turn affects the person’s network of relationships. Going back to Periquito’s example, the wife shows her desire for freedom. She wants to feel free to be herself and the encounter with her husband is translated as a block to her freedom. On top of this we add her need to be recognized and accepted. Instead of waiting to be welcomed, she is afraid of being scolded. These two needs i.e. the need for freedom and the need to be recognized can explain the degradation in perception suffered by the wife.

At the relational plane, the interpretation of the stimuli can be distorted when personal needs are not in accord with group needs because individual needs change according with the development of the individual. Next week we will continue with review a third factor.

Mary Mendias is Playing the Organ

2007-11-11T10:30:00.000-06:00

With new energy Mary Mendias has come back to St. Mary's precisely to share one of her many gifts, the gift of music. A quick choir has assembled out of the blue at the Saturday 5:00pm Mass. After living for a while in a Nursing Home, and battling with cancer, Mary has not given up. She is here to tell us that love goes all the way to the end. Mary, thank you for sharing this gift with us.

Factors that Influence the Perception Triangle

2007-11-09T14:31:00.000-06:00

The process of perception takes place with the disposition of the person to deal with reality: this disposition can be modified by factors such as misread perception levels, personal needs, emotional needs and the general predisposition found in a given person when the perceptive activity is taking place.

We wish to see how these factors influence the perception at the moment of the exchange in a personal relationship. For example: Let’s pretend we are at the home of Periquito and Periquita Perez. It is Monday morning. Periquita finds herself all of the sudden before Periquito, whom she has not seen during the weekend. Periquito says: “I need to talk to you”. Periquita, surprised by the encounter, hears what Periquito says but without looking at him she interprets the greeting as a citation to appear before a tribunal.

This situation makes her feel uneasy and it becomes a source of distraction throughout the morning. She may think to herself: What does Periquito want to tell me? Obviously her reaction has a direct effect on her rapport with others: She is not paying attention when people talk to her; she has a quick temper at times and shows irritation. As time progresses, she feels more uneasy without yet knowing what Periquito has to say.

A first factor limiting perception is the capacity to feel, to sense, to pick up the data coming from our surroundings. In the example just mentioned there is a clear failure in communication: on the one hand, the fact that Periquita did not see Periquito during the weekend limits the information available to Periquita; on the other hand, the encounter was so fast that it limits the possibility to welcome and register the incoming information in a correct manner. Besides this, the memory of previous encounters with other people in authority comes to light which in turn exercises a direct influence on the present situation.

Our senses provide the brain with selective information about internal and external events. They single out and work on the information that is meaningful for that particular organ. An ill disposition of the brain, the temporal malfunction of the senses, the lack of stimulation play an important role in altering the process of perception. The person is no longer fit to process, take, elaborate, select and interpret any internal or external stimulation.

A day in the History of St. Mary's

2007-11-09T08:51:00.001-06:00

Today Father found this picture of Alice and Sister Margie, while having some breakfast at Alices' Cafe. As to not loose our memory, we are posting this picture at a time when the Rectory was renovated.

Liturgy Enhacements

2007-11-08T23:57:00.000-06:00

We received two anonymous donations. One for $500 and another one for $1000. These donations will help us purchase new altar decorations in preparation for Advent. Our desire is to procure 4 sets: one for Advent, one for Lent, one for Easter and one for Ordinary Time. We will have a board in the back of the church to let you know how much we still need to cover each set. Your donations will help us enrich our liturgy and our worship with beautiful decorations. As mentioned, the first set is for Advent. We need the following items:

a) Two banners with their respective stands such as these:

b) We also need an altar cloth and a lectern cloth such as these:

The total cost: $2301.00. Taking into account our two donations which run a total of $1500.00, then we are still missing $801.00 to complete this Advent Set. We are also considering adding a Chasuble to complete the set. We want to start this Advent season with a beautiful church. Please, help in this effort.

Highest Point for Collections

2007-11-07T18:27:00.000-06:00

From Left to Right: Bertha Sanchez, Lucy Polanco, Faye Carrasco & Estela Cordero counting money. This week's collection is the highest since Fr. Rolando became administrator at St. Mary's. Without your donations we wouldn't move forward. May God Bless all of you!

This week's collection gets flying colors just two days after we were visited by the Finance Office from the Diocese. We hear that the audit went smooth and from among the last 30 churches that were audited, ours stands out with good marks. We are expecting to receive a letter of recommendations in the near future. We will publish it here for everyone to see. Thank you for your faithful contributions to St. Mary's.

All Souls

2007-11-02T21:23:00.001-05:00

Today we celebrated the Feast of All Souls. It was also First Friday and we had Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from 12:00pm to 5:30pm ending with Benediction. The candles before the altar are requested by the parishoners prior to every First Friday and they all get lit at once. This afternoon Fr. Rolando went to bless tombs at the cemetery. It as a beautifull day here in Marfa. Don't forget to pray for vocations.

The Perception Triangle

2007-10-31T16:04:00.000-05:00

The perception triangle refers to the balance I keep in the way I see events in my life. This helps me understand how an error in my interpretation corrupts the relationships I have established in the community because interaction is attached to what I am, what I perceive and what I do.

According to the theory of cognitive dissonance by Festinger [1978], the person tries to keep his/her perceptive system in balance. In this quest for balance, community relationships can be of help. When I confront others it helps me to activate the right mechanism to adapt in order to correct the unbalanced perceptions within the various factors that come to play in a given relationship.

What is your perception triangle like? How do you adjust to what you are, to what you perceive and to what you do? What is the shape of your triangle? Next week we will see the factors that influence this perception triangle.

Parish Council Minutes

2007-10-30T16:59:00.000-05:00

Members present: Father Rolando, Rito Rivera, Tina Lujan, Roy Cataño, Genevieve Bassham, Linda Gutierrez, Teresa Juarez, and Vickie Sanchez.
I. Opening prayer was led by Father Rolando

II. Discussion and/or Change to Designated Meeting DateGenevieve Bassham moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion to move the council meeting to the 4th Tuesday of the month. The motion carried unanimously.

III. Minutes of July 31, 2007Genevieve Bassham moved and Roy Catano seconded the motion to approve the minutes as presented. The motion carried 7-0.

IV. Facility Project Update

a) Update on Church Re-Wiring Project and Light Fixtures – Father Rolando reported that the project is currently underway. He has requested that the project include special lighting for the altar, a spotlight for the Blessed Sacrament, lighting on the saints, and extra lighting for the choir loft. The new light fixtures that were to replace the chandeliers will not be purchased at this time. The broken fixtures will be repaired and burned light bulbs will be replaced. Once the project is completed, Roy Cataño will review the wiring and take pictures of the completed project.

Father informed the council that the Catholic Daughters gave him the $6,000.00 check that is to be used towards the re-wiring of the church.

b) Update on Electrical Wiring for the Heating-A/C Units in Classrooms – The project has been completed and all that is needed is to paint the wood around the units.

c) Update on Plaster Project for Outside Wall and Confessional – Father Rolando provided the council with an update on the previous two meetings held with Joe Uranga, with El Capitán Construction. Father reported that the project proposed is a very large project and that there are not enough funds to cover the project. Major repairs will need to be addressed in the future with the hopes of securing a grant or other means to cover the cost for the project. At the present time, leaks must be filled, and repairs and maintenance will continue to take place in the confessional. The cypress tree will need to be cut down so as to avoid further damage to the walls. The cost and installation of the louvers will be researched.

Mr. Uranga will continue to work on the walls. He is currently being paid by the hour and has also donated some of his personal time to the project.

V. New Facility Projects or Concerns

a) The parish hall kitchen floods when it rains. It is possible that the rain is entering through the roof vents or other leaks in the roof. When it rains, the water runs from the pitched roof unto the flat roof. A gutter may be installed to redirect the water to run off of the roof. It was also suggested that a roofer be contacted to look at the church.

b) Father requested that the sprinkler be adjusted so that the water is not spraying unto or near the church walls. Roy Catano agreed to visit with Robert Silva, installer, so that he may teach him how to adjust the sprinklers and the timer.

c) President Rivera inquired on the painting of the inside walls of the church. The project was never completed. It was agreed that the project will be revisited once the electrical work is completed. Teresa Juarez will contact Father Mike regarding the paint that was donated for the project.

d) Father reported on the need for decorations for the liturgical seasons. A parishioner has offered to donate an altar cloth for Advent. Additional items needed to complete the set would be two banners and stands to be located against each wall near the altar. A banner for the amble will be needed as well. Estimated cost for the entire set is $1800.00. A complete set for each liturgical season is needed. A list of items needed and cost will be posted and donations will be accepted

e) An update on e-Bulletin and the number of visitors was provided. The last count consisted of 1,970 visitors with an average of 7 visitors per day.

f) Genevieve Bassham requested assistance in encouraging girls aged 14 and older to run for Queen of Hearts. The winner is awarded with a $100.00 scholarship. The Queen of Hearts is a major fund raiser for the Catholic Daughters of America. The Catholic Daughters have assisted with funding for various church needs.

g) Vickie Sanchez reported on the condition of the window sills and the stained glass windows. The woodwork is cracked and in need of repairs.

h) Father included that the sign located at the front of the church needs to moved or redone. Tina Lujan discussed spiritual messages on bulletin boards. Father added that the council could look at hanging spiritual banners from the bell posts located at the front of the church.

i) An audit requested by the Diocese will be conducted on November 5th. A financial report will be provided to the council and its parishioners.

The Knights of Columbus purchased a portable building and were originally told by the zoning board that the building would need to be set 4 ½ feet from the fence. The Knights were recently informed that it would actually have to be set 30 feet from the fence instead of 4 ½ feet. The inconsistencies in the information from the zoning board have caused a delay in the setting of the building and use by the Knights of Columbus. The other buildings on the church grounds are all approximately 4 feet from the fence. If the portable building is set 30 feet from the fence, it would not only be an eyesore, but would also cut into the parking and use of the parish grounds. Council members voiced their support and several members will attend the meeting for support in the hopes of coming into an agreement with the zoning board.

VI. General discussion and consideration

Father Rolando mentioned that he felt that the meeting was successful and much had been accomplished. He expressed his appreciation and stated that the council was moving forward and in the right direction.

VII. Genevieve Bassham moved and Teresa Juarez seconded the motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 7:29 p.m.

The Perception of my Neighbor

2007-10-24T11:19:00.000-05:00

If I want to establish an effective dialogue with another person, it is necessary in the first place to be able to perceive and single out the characteristics of the person in front of me. This ability to perceive from others fulfills a steering function that guides the relationships we nurture, the things and events that we encounter.

Perception allows me to observe the reality of the person I am relating to. But this observation could be distorted. This leads us to question: What I perceive may not be what is truly in front of me. This is why Jesus in the Gospel warns us to have more that one witness when it comes to confront others or solve disputes. Simply put, four eyes see better than two.

Let us repeat this important observation: What others say and do inside a group can be evaluated in several ways depending on the person making the observations, and this includes also the psychological health of the person doing the observation.

A perception is an objective process i.e. a mechanism that takes place inside the individual and this process gives or lends meaning to the so called “reality” being observed.

“In every one of us, in fact, we find, not always at a conscious level, the selfish presumption that our own perception of reality is the only right one, to such a degree that if we encounter a perception different from our own we feel bad” [Franta H.-Salonia G. (1981) Comunicazione Interpersonale, LAS, Roma]. It is healthy for us to be on guard against this tendency of our personality.

Priest Retreat

2007-10-24T10:53:00.000-05:00

Our Priest Retreat began Monday at 5:00pm. Bishop Rutilio Del Riego, auxiliary Bishop from the Diocese of San Bernardino, California, is our retreat master.

The priest seem to be in good spirits as we gather to reflect on our ministry and the call we have received from God.

We will be here at Holy Cross Retreat House in Las Cruces, New Mexico until Friday when the retreat officially ends. Keep praying for us in this time of renewal.

The importance of interpersonal relationships in the definition of a Catholic Community

2007-10-18T17:33:00.000-05:00

We would like to pay close attention to some of the specific characteristics of interpersonal relationships in order to highlight the components proper to Catholic Communities.

A Catholic Community stands out because of the communion shared by its members. This is possible thanks to the stable interaction that takes place among the people that conform it. The community is the result of the encounters that takes place among the people which in turn leads us to consider our reciprocal dependency and social interaction among its members.

People need each other. In their relationships they come to influence the group. In this setting, everyone’s actions are the direct result of the common activities shared by the members and their environment. One thing that brings people together is when they share the same objectives, building a sense of solidarity. A question comes up: Are the objectives of the group also my own objectives? Do I share the same goals with the community?

This means that in a Catholic Community people depend on each other’s effort in order to achieve important goals. I cannot just come in and say: “I will do this on my own”. The quality of the relationships and the frequency of these interactions determine the success of the group’s initiatives.

For the community to become a place for growth it is necessary to foster healthy and stable relationships imbued with high doses of spontaniety, solidarity, self-sacrifice, personal knowledge of the people in the community and the capacity to get to the bottom of things and their value.

Parish Council: Facilities Presentation Update

2007-10-18T16:33:00.000-05:00

Here you can see the difference between a wet wall and a dry wall after a rain. Repairs are on the way to correct the water infiltration.

Parish Council Members present: Father Fonseca, Teresa Juarez, President Rito Rivera, and Vickie Sanchez. Council meeting was not held due to lack of a quorum. A facilities presentation was held with those present.

Plaster Project : Confessional, Church Tower and Outside Wall:

Joe Uranga with El Capitàn Construction provided an update on the repairs being made to the church tower walls and confessional. He is currently working on the walls and placing the finish on a couple of the walls. One will be left undone to determine whether the repairs are working. Mr. Uranga reported that there is an area where the water runs off the roof falling against the wall to the fleshing and into a hole in the wall. The hole had been filled at one time with gobs of caulking. The water is going around the caulking and into the wall. He placed a coffee can in that area to see how much erosion was taking place when it rained. Within two hours of rain, three quarters of the coffee can had filled with erosion. The holes that were located have been filled with cool seal. Before, covering the area, Mr. Uranga would like to wait for it to rain so that he may see if the cool seal will work.

The plaster on the walls in the confessional is being removed and the adobe is being dried. The west wall of the confessional appears to be to wall with the most damage. Roots from the cypress tree are growing within the adobe. The roots will damage the walls. It was recommended that the cypress tree be cut down and that the parish consider the possibility of changing to desert landscaping.

Mr. Uranga reported that he found a sealed drain in the middle of tower. The drain indicates that in the past, the water was being channeled out of the tower. He also mentioned that cement plaster from the outside walls would need to be removed since this form of plaster creates a barrier and “sweats” creating moisture, erosion and cracked walls. It is possible that certain areas requiring removal of the cement plaster might result in the removal of some of the adobes.

The name and contact information for David Tennant, architect was provided. Mr. Tennant and his wife, Barbara, have a home in Marfa and will be in Marfa during the Thanksgiving holidays. They are willing to donate their time and develop architectural plans for the repairs. This would give the council a starting point in determining techniques and a game plan. Bonding and safety rules and techniques and city ordinances were mentioned. It was estimated that the major repairs could cost approximately $125,000.00 or more depending on what takes place.

Natural plasters were discussed as well as the dimensions of the tower and how much would need to be purchased for the repairs. Mr. Uranga stated that Rich Gill, a resident of Marfa, could be contacted and asked to look at the tower and provide the council with the dimensions. As for the inside walls in the confessional, Mr. Uranga stated that he would like to use a marble dust finish. The color would be a bright white and would “glow” from the marble dust creating warmth and color.

An update of the discussion held at this meeting will be provided to the parish council at the next meeting. Council members will be asked to meet on Tuesday, October 30th, at 6:00 p.m.

The Community: Instrument of Satisfaction for its Members

2007-10-12T09:28:00.001-05:00

The community, besides being the place where our common identity as well as the community identity grows, it is also the environment where its members come to fulfill their own interpersonal needs. It is within this net of relationships that people are able to spot and satisfy their emotional needs, their need for support, for friendship and appreciation.

As a place of emotional investment, the community helps fulfill a person’s own vital need for protection and emotional security and its own unconscious aspirations for dialogue and freedom with respect to others, thus allowing the development of healthy psychological mechanisms of defense useful when it comes time to integrate the relational anguish that takes place when we approach people not close to us.

Furthermore, besides responding to psychological and emotional needs, the community also responds to member needs for meaning and self-fulfilment, as far as it offers a place where we can be who we are and where we can find meaning in light of our common ideal. The way a person feels accepted among others depends on the way these human needs are addressed and satisfied. This is because a person brings to the community a specific pattern of motivations and needs, and is able to respond and react to community life based on them.

From this perspective, the community must be able to identify the needs of its members and contribute to fulfill them through its net of relationships, integrating both the interpersonal and extra personal characteristics of their needs, if it wants to be effective and persevere in its mission.

Community Idealization

2007-10-06T10:21:00.000-05:00

The community in general grows relying on the transparency of the identities that conform it, either at the individual or group level, as well as through the awareness of the community’s own myths and goals, since its scope is not just to be “together” but rather be “together for something” i.e. to feed on the values recognized and adopted by all.

When individuals embrace the same goal that they have in common as a group, they are able to discover that the basis for their fraternity lies in the common tension that is experienced in fulfilling the ideal of their dedication to God. This ideal unveils the set of expectations gathered from every single member of the group. These become dispositions which allow the group to grow towards a common identity. One by one, every expectation gives shape to the group and the group, in turn, takes responsibility for them, and makes them part of its positive process of idealization, the place where all functional structures of any common life becomes a reality.

Going back to the distinction between the ideal “Me” and “My” ideals, we see that in community life, each single idealization process lies at the heart of one’s positive recognition, and this is possible thanks to the presence of the other members of the community. There is a danger when the ideal “Me” seeks to project what I think the ideal fellow should look like. The danger lies in the fact that the community would be expected to be “that” way, instead of what it really is. When we encounter the “actual” community and the actual people that conform it, then we become disillusioned.

Being able to truly perceive the ideal “Me” means also that I am capable of recognizing and channeling my own needs and expectations towards the objective values of community life, which also shape my individual identity. To better understand this process we should ask ourselves: What are the objectives of my community? What is my community looking for? What values are important to my community? Once we have some answers then we must ask ourselves: Are they also my own objectives? Is this also what I am looking for? Are these values also important to me? If our answers match, then we are in the right path. If they don’t match, then there is a clash between reality and desires. If we let this breach opened, then it will get worse. If we then address this problem, then we are on our way to healing.

Blessing of the Animals

2007-10-04T21:11:00.001-05:00

Today, around 6pm, on the Feast of St. Francis of Assis, we had the blessing of the animals. We had a pretty nice group of animals. Some dogs, birds, turtles were among the guests this afternoon. It was also trickling water from the sky which highlighted the blessing. Father used holy water to bless the animals while at the same time the sky was also blessing them. Here are some pictures for your enjoyment.

Parish Council: Facilities Presentation

2007-10-04T16:27:00.000-05:00

Parish Council Members present: Father Fonseca, Dan Dunlap, and Vickie Sanchez. Council meeting was not held due to lack of a quorum. A facilities presentation was held with those present.

Plaster Project for Outside Wall and ConfessionalJoe Uranga with El Capitàn Construction provided photos on the condition of the adobe walls around the church bell tower, the confessional, and the outside wall. The pictures provided showed the obvious water damage and corrosion, as well as numerous cracks on the walls. The corrosion is evident by the clay particles seeping through the walls. The adobe is wet and the clay/sand is crumbling off of the adobe. The crumbling clay is accumulating on the bound beams.

The possibility of the walls collapsing if repairs are not made was discussed. Options mentioned were demolition/deconstruction on certain sections of the walls, as well as the need to dry and seal the plaster. It was recommended that lime plaster be used. Lime plaster allows adobe to breathe. Several sections of the walls have had minor repairs in the past so some of the walls might contain mesh and others just adobe and plaster.

A portion of the water is entering through the open area where the church bell section is located. It is also seeping in through the gap surrounding a stained glass window that was not completely installed. The installation of louvers covering the church bell area could decrease the amount of rain entering the bell tower as well as provide for a clear sound. If installed, it is recommended that a cleat be created so that the louver be set against it and screwed on like a door jam. The gap around the stained glass window should also be sealed. After a brief discussion, it was agreed that it would be best if the repairs were made from the tower area where the rain is coming down and work down to the confessional. Mr. Uranga stated that the height of the walls would require the use of a harness for safety purposes. The high cost of renting scaffolds, articulating ladders and lifts was discussed. There are several areas around the bell tower that will be difficult to reach and would need to be looked at.

After reviewing the damage and repairs to be made, it was evident that the project would be a large and costly project. It was agreed that the need for repairs to the confessional is priority and should be addressed as soon as possible. Mr. Dunlap inquired on the feasibility of sealing the leaks in the tower that are causing the water leaks to seep down to the confessional walls, inserting cool seals and begin working on the confessional. Mr. Uranga stated that this would be a temporary fix but would allow us to begin working on the confessional. This would require removing the old plaster from the confessional, drying the adobe and applying the cool seal. The parish would furnish the materials needed and pay Mr. Uranga an hourly wage for the repairs. Once the repairs are made, the outside walls would need to be addressed.

Mr. Uranga recommended that the council visit with Joe Tibbetts regarding adobe structures and repairs. Mr. Tibbetts is an adobe instructor and has many years of experience in the building, demolition and restructuring of adobe walls. If possible, a meeting with Mr. Tibbitts might be coincided with a council meeting. The parish would be responsible for travel costs and a possible fee.

Mr. Uranga was asked to purchase for the project, the cool-seal for the walls so that he may begin working on sealing the bell towers from the inside and working on the confessional walls.

Church Re-Wiring Project

Father stated that he was going to check to see if the signed quote had been faxed to the contractor that was selected to re-wire the church.
Electrical Wiring for the Heating A/C Units in the Classroom
Jesus Saenz completed the project in both the classrooms and the library. The cost was $80.00 for the library unit and $300.00 for the classrooms. The units were installed through the walls. The walls will need to be painted.

New Facility Projects or Concerns

The leak in the sacristy will need to be looked at before the re-wiring project begins. It was also mentioned that there is a possible leak in the kitchen area of the parish hall. This has not been confirmed but had been mentioned by a parishioner.

Discussion and/or Change to Designated Meeting Date

Several meeting dates were discussed. A preliminary designated meeting day of the first Wednesday of the month will be discussed at the next council meeting to be held.

The Community as a Myth

2007-09-28T08:18:00.000-05:00

A myth (mythos) is a sacred story concerning the origins of the world or how the world and the creatures in it came to have their present form. The active beings in myths are generally gods and heroes. Myths often are said to take place before recorded history begins. In saying that a myth is a sacred narrative, what is meant is that a myth is believed to be true by people who attach religious or spiritual significance to it.

Sometimes people may attached certain myths to a church community. They would expect it to be holy and perfect. They would want all to embrace rigid norms and that all behave the same way. Or the other way around, they would want to exalt the right of every single person to do as he or she pleases and that the community caters to every single wish these people may have. As we can see, it is necessary to strike a balance between these two tendencies if we want our community to be healthy. When we see the wrinkles of our community, we must not become disillusioned nor end up by leaving the community altogether. This could happen in any other group, like a school community, a political party, and so forth.

This rupture takes place when they see the gap between their dream community and the community in front of their eyes. It could happen that we engage in a game of kicking out or at least ignoring any individual that does not fit into our dream community. If we let this to happen we would then be creating division within the community and any hope of healing would be futile.

What should our position be? We cannot adopt a “laissez-faire” policy, that is, let things go their own marry way. Because we are members of the community and we must take steps that will help build it and heal it. How are you going to make this community more beautiful today? What are you going to do that will make it shine the more? Suggestion: Start by shining yourself.

Catechist Retreat: Presidio

2007-09-22T18:51:00.000-05:00

Sister Margie and Sister Luz from Texas West Ministry were busy today at Santa Teresa Church in Presidio giving a Catechist Retreat to kick off the new CCD year for the different churches in the area. In attendance were about 48 catechists. This is the second retreat for the catechists. The first one was held in Pecos a couple of weeks ago. Father Fabián Márquez, Father Rolando Fonseca and Father Miguel Luna gave a talk as well. Here are some pictures from the retreat.

The Community: Fostering a Unique Identity

2007-09-19T15:16:00.000-05:00

Another way to define a community is to question its identity, at a personal level and at the group level. In a given community, a person arrives already with his/her own identity level, and thanks in part to the interaction that takes place with others, they are able to define it better and grow further into it.

The clarity of their identity allows others to better envision the objectives of the community at large and its common identity, thus contributing in a consistent manner with their own personal identity level to the common ideal precious to the group.

Within a bounding community, people strengthen their own identity level by harmonizing and balancing their own needs, potential and objective values with the common goals established by the group. This is why it is so important to place as a solid foundation one's own identity in contrast with and nourished by the identity and depth that come with membership in a catholic group, thus allowing members to take on different projects, fulfill various tasks and propose other initiatives.

It is then clear that identity in itself possess a propulsive function because it pushes community life towards a given objective and it is attached to it i.e. a job to get done or an ideal desired by all. In this perspective one can see how important a positive integration of both common identity and personal identity is for the group to prosper and persevere. A community is never mechanically defined as a sum of identities, rather, it is a process where individuals mutually influence each other thus conditioning a certain lifestyle, the way of doing ministry, the way one thinks and feels, and influences the growth of the group towards common goals.

Catechist Meeting

2007-09-18T22:56:00.000-05:00

The catechists got together to plan for this new year's CCD classes. Attending the meeting were also Fr. Rolando and Sister Margie. Father spoke of the role of the catechist and Sister led the meeting through the rest of the agenda. As we recall from the first line of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the life of any human being is to know and to love God (Jn 17,3). Catechists not only impart knowledge, they also witness to the life of Jesus within them. Catechists will be commissioned next Sunday, September 30th at the 10:00 am Mass. [From left to right: Paul Hunt, Rosie García, Cynthia Ramírez, Irma Salgado, Tina Luján & Mary Jane].

The Community: Through Thick & Thin

2007-09-13T09:25:00.000-05:00

Every community is conformed by a set of individuals who interact with each other, influencing each other, sharing to a lesser or greater degree the same goals, interests, behavioral patterns and certain characteristics.

In a unique way, the community seeks consecration to God as its common ideal. Christians base their relationships on mutual collaboration with the scope of building together a fraternity that will take into consideration the people that conform it as well as the life project being embraced by the community.

When we choose to focus on the common will which is relational and competitive, we say that the community parallels a functional organization, a group of individuals under an institutional umbrella that gathers all community interests with the scope of maximizing productivity.

Another approach regarding the community as a group takes place when we consider the thoughts, the will, the feelings and the value of individuals as the expression of a common culture which unites everyone under a common identity. In this vision, the various actions undertaken by these individuals i.e. prayer, norms, ministry, etc., come together to form the portrait of the community thereby creating a religious culture where common ends and objectives meet.

In this group culture, every member positively participates by sharing their own mental harmony, which means that everyone’s logical assets are an integral part of the group’s well-being. When we bring together these different aspects we have an “open system community” where the mentality that brings unity and life to the group operates by accumulating vital forces emanating from the individual styles of every single member.

In this case, polarity traits such as upbringing, personal relationships, organizational skills, right and left wing tendencies, ethnic background, language barriers, etc. are not in themselves the backbone of the group, but rather working dimensions that sustain the continual growth of the group towards a common goal. In other words, we are called to grow together through thick and thin.

Catechist Retreat

2007-09-12T20:49:00.001-05:00

This past Saturday Sister Margie and Sister Luz were busy giving a cathechist retreat in Pecos. What you see at your left is not Little Red's Riding Hood basket but part of one of the activities that took place at the retreat. This is a basket full of "Prayer Rocks". Take a good look at the second picture. Below you will find the text of the "Prayer Rock". About 60 cathechists were reported to have attended. This retreat is part of the outreach of West Texas Ministry. We thank God for the Sister's presence among us.

Prayer Rock

I am your little prayer rock
and this is what I'll do.
Just put me on your pillow
'till the day is through.

Then turn back the covers
and climb into your bed and,
whack! your little prayer rock
will bump you on the head.

Then you will remember
as the day is through,
to kneel and say your prayers
as you intended to.

Then when you are finished
dump me on the floor.
I'll stay there through the nighttime
to give you help once more.

When you get up next morning,
clunk! I stub your toe,
so that you will remember
your prayers before you go.

Put me back upon your pillow
when your bed is made,
and your clever little prayer rock
will continue in your aid...

Altar Servers

2007-09-12T19:19:00.001-05:00

Here you have them. Our Altar Server Team. Today the Altar Servers, under the leadership of Tina Lujan and Javier Prieto, got together to review some procedures involving incense. They learn quickly and are ready to give of themselves to God and the Community. Please, pray for them as they help bring beauty to our liturgy. At the same time, we thank Javier and Tina for their dedication to this ministry.

CCD Classes

2007-09-12T09:59:00.000-05:00

Welcome to a new year of CCD. Classes for CCD on Tuesdays will begin at 5:15pm thru 6:30pm. Wednesday classes will begin at 5:30pm thru 6:30pm. We are now accepting registration forms. Please make sure your child is in class on time and also be picked up on time! Our CCD teachers are not allowed to give rides to your children.

The following is the schedule for the days of class. Class attendance required on the following days:

Grades 1-3

October 02, 16, 23, 30
November 06, 13, 27
December 04, 11, 18
January 08, 15, 22, 29
February 05, 12, 19, 26
March 04, 11, 25
April 01, 08, 15, 22

Last day of class is April 22nd, 2008.

Grades 4-6

October 03,10, 17, 24, 31
November 07, 14, 28
December 05, 19
January 09, 16, 23, 30
February 06, 13, 20, 27
March 12, 26
April 02, 16, 23

Last day of class is April 23rd, 2008.

Pre-Confirmation & Confirmation

They will meet on Wednesdays from 7:00pm to 8:15pm. The will follow the Wednesday schedule outlined above.

If additional days are needed, parents and students will be notified. Attendance must be met. Three excused absences will be allowed. If more absences occur, notification or conference with parents will be necessary. All students are to bring a pencil or pen to class. A parent meeting will be scheduled, please check church bulletin for announcement. Thank you. You may reach Irma Salgado at work: 432-729-3431 or home: 432-729-4569.

Confessional Repairs

2007-09-11T10:01:00.000-05:00

Divine Providence brought these two birds, Efrain Lopez and George Gonzales to work on the Confessional. They are notoriously happy to work for Jesus and make our temple a beautiful one. The confessional is in bad shape due to running cracks on the walls. We need to repair these cracks and make it an inviting place for the penitents. We hope to have this accomplished in a short period of time. Cheers!

In this image you can see the deplorable state of our Confessional and why it is urgent for us to repair it. Thank you for your support.

This is where Father seats to hear confessions. Another example of the state of our Confessional. Please help us make it a beautiful place.

Singing for God (Cantando para Dios)

2007-09-11T09:03:00.000-05:00

Every Sunday morning we worship God animated by the Spanish Choir, pictured here for your delight. What a blessing to have a choir sing in church. Our goal is to have choir for all masses but this is going to take hard work. Please, pray that Divine Providence may bring to us the right people for this task.

The Trinity: Recognition and Integration of our Differences

2007-09-03T21:00:00.000-05:00

As Catholics, we are consecrated to God through baptism. This means that we are disciples of the Lord and this condition lead us to recognize our differences and to integrate them in our desire to belong to Jesus. At the root of this ideal of dedication to God and to our brethren we find the Trinity as a model of communion. This is important because the way we live our community life gives witness of our relationship to God.

It is important to underscore that this desire of communion does not cancel the difficulties and the tensions found in human interaction. Since the community is a gift to be received and at the same time a reality to be built together, it is necessary to integrate both difficulties and limits into a process that would help our common growth.

Because of this it is good to have in mind the different parts that define a community as a group of individuals, each having their own individuality and their own personal characteristics, a group where people show their dedication to God in the way they deal with each other on a daily basis.

It is here that God takes flesh and invites each one of us to reconcile the tension between ideals and reality so that we may become effective witnesses of Christ's love.

Kicking the habit??

2007-09-03T19:48:00.001-05:00

You might want to get some of these cups for yourself if you intend to kick the habit.... Just kidding. While you are at it, focus on developing new habits that promote goodness and make you shine. Cheers!

Sister Luz's Creations

2007-09-03T19:41:00.001-05:00

Have you ever seen Sister Luz's Creations? Take a good look. Sister Luz has been busy doing her creations for quite some time now. For her it is a fundraiser whose proceeds go to help the missions of her community. If you stopped by the raffle both during the Marfa Lights Festival, you could not have missed them.

Is a harmonic too humble to play in Church?

2007-09-02T20:07:00.001-05:00

This weekend, at the 5pm mass, Enedina Carmona came with her harmonic to play a christian melody for communion. She did very well and we gave her a round of applause before the congregation was dismissed. We have been requesting help for the 5pm mass. We would like to have different musicians play taking turns every week. Enedina's example is sufficient to illustrate that no musical gift is too small to share. Please, if you know how to play any instrument other than the guitar, do not hesitate to tell us.

Marfa Lights Festival

2007-09-01T11:48:00.000-05:00

Here we have the girls at work: Lucy Polanco & Estela Cordero are ready to catch anyone known to them for the benefit of St. Mary's Church. This raffle is a popular fundraiser for the church which helps pay off the insurance. The raffle booth was located behind the stage at the Marfa courthouse grounds. While Lucy and Estela were busy selling tickets, Enedina, Elisa, Lulu and Delfina enjoyed the afternoon sun. If you have not gotten your tickets yet, please call the office or talk to Lucy.

The Community: A Place of Difficult Relationships

2007-08-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

If it is true that the community is the ideal setting for communion to grow, the church also identifies it as the place where one learns to integrate the various difficulties that make up day to day relationships. These community hiccups belong to the process of maturity and growth to which we, as a community, are called to actively participate, always looking for better ways to expand brotherly love.

Pope Paul VI would say that a community dies if a lid is put over kindness because it is the heart that brings life to authentic relationships. This would lead to the weakening of unity which in turn reduces our capacity for relating to one another thus risking to dry up our community life.

Some times, interpersonal tensions may arise from conditions being experienced by the individual such as physical or psychic illness, spiritual hardships, identity crisis, character conflicts, loss of meaning, etc., which may in turn affect the community at large.

However, there are other external factors that may lead to community hiccups. For example, people may not feel comfortable with the role they play within the community or the task assigned to them; or they may feel down if they do not see the results they expected; or worse when they are misunderstood due to differences in age, race or cultural upbringing and theological formation.

In addition to all this, there is a structural factor that comes into play and that has to do with numbers: when there is a large group of people, it is very easy to get lost in the crowd. People would not feel personally responsible for the community and really not involved at all.

This is indeed a great challenge for the Catholic Community. We cannot live as if nothing outside of us matters. The Lord has given each one of us some talents and we are responsible for them. We are not to keep them hidden, but we must shared them and multiply them. In the next issue we will consider our personal differences in face of our desire to consecrate ourselves to God.

Catholic Community - Human Community

2007-08-23T21:00:00.000-05:00

Our community is the ideal place where we Catholics can grow together in the quest to enter into communion with God and with our brothers and sisters, in order to experience in the context of ordinary relationships brotherly love according to the Gospel.

Nonetheless, this common desire does not take away the conflicts and the tensions that are bound to happen whenever people gather together under the same purpose. Since a community is at the same time a gift that must be received and also a reality that remains to be built, it is necessary to recognize the limits and the difficulties that lay ahead of this process of becoming the living body of Christ. In this process, it is good for us to examine the components that are behind any given community. These steps will help us recognize how in dealing with others we come to pass from “me” to “we”, from “my thing” to “the things of Christ”.

This is the start of a series of considerations on human interaction regarding the Christian Community where we find the privileged place of communion with Christ. We will take a psichosocial approach in order to reveal the different degrees of relationships within the community, considered in itself as a group of people who come to worship together.

It is always good for us to question ourselves regarding our motives for action when we interact with a group of people. Sometimes there are hidden motivations that push us in the wrong direction which makes us ready to blame others instead of allowing us to honestly take a good look at ourselves.

I hope you find these considerations helpful to your spiritual life and so enable you to lend a helping hand in the building of our Catholic Community.

Vocation Awareness

2007-08-23T15:48:00.001-05:00

The rector of St. Charles Seminary, Fr. John Telles, came to West Texas along with his seminarians for a couple of days to expose them to our surroundings. They are staying in Ft. Davis and visiting different churches in the area. Father Mike Alcuino invited us to have lunch with them at La Casita in Alpine. I am glad to report that we pray for vocations everyday at St. Mary's and they are in the heart of our prayers. Please, include them also in your prayers.

Mary: Cathedral of Silence

2007-08-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

A priest poet, Father David María Turoldo, describes the Virgin Mary as "The Cathedral of Silence". The Gospel shows Mary as the creature of silence who chooses to remain hidden. She never appears upfront. Her presence is always discreet and is "not in the way".

Mary disappears totally in her Son. It is the Word of God that has to speak, not her. In Cana she states: "Do whatever he tells you" [John 2,5]. She does not say: "Listen to me", but "Listen to Him".

Here we have God who becomes man, who is made visible in our own flesh and who finds a mother who chooses not to be "visible". It should not come as a surprise to us that the Gospel, instead of thriving with words and appearances of Mary, rather highlights her silence and simplicity.

Mary is the monstrance carved in silence. The traces surrounding the figure of Mary are not notorious nor well defined. They disappear in the unlimited transparency of silence. God has found his resting place in this humble, profound and immaculate creature who has an inclination for meekness.

In the presence of God's master piece i.e. our Lady: "a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars" [Rev 12,1], the right posture is dictated by surprise, by contemplation and by silence.

Today's "woman" flees to the desert precisely because she is threatened by a dragon willing to pay her honors, with the intention of robbing her of her true role. Our Lady, in the account of the annunciation, is the opposite of Zechariah the priest who expects signs, who wants to see, to touch, to control, to have proof. She, on the other hand, does not pretend to have signs. She trusts in God's Word. She abandons herself to that Word. She makes herself available to that Word. Precisely because she is a believer, she does not need any signs. Thus her silence speaks of plenitude unlike Zechariah who was reduced to muteness.

We must learn from Mary the art of listening.

The mission of the Priest: CUM-PANIS

2007-08-11T18:06:00.000-05:00

The priest is someone who travels along the path of faith together with the faithful. In this sense, he is like a companion on the road. The person that keeps you company is the person that shares bread with you. Company has two Latin roots: CUM+PANIS (With Bread). The priest is the first one to share bread with you, the bread of the Eucharist. This sharing is dynamic because it takes place on an on-going basis.

The fact that we can share bread means that the possibility for communication grows. There is room for listening, understanding, dialogue, planning, etc. Most important, it is Jesus who wants to share this bread of life with us. "I am at the door and knock, if someone lets me in I will share a meal with him" (Rev 3,20).

Sharing a meal with Jesus places a responsibility over us. We are called to duplicate this action with others so that the presence of Jesus may be visible in our sharing. Let us ask the Lord to help us become true companions to the people that walk with us in the path of life.

The Mission of the Priest: FORMARE

2007-08-02T19:48:00.000-05:00

It is not enough for the priest to engage in the process of EDUCERE as was noted last week. It is also necessary for him to engage in formation. The faithful who follow Christ embrace a new “form”, a new identity and the priest is ready to help in that process of decantation.

Thus, if EDUCERE reveals the truth about the human person, FORMARE entails a pro-vocation of our humanity which expects from us nothing but the best. In this sense, it helps the person discover his or her own capacities or assets. If we stop to think, any FORMATIVE activity has chattering effects: as such it is capable to generating surprise and also fear. It creates new expectations and requests; it generates tension and also insatisfaction; it moves the will to change old habits and lifestyles. It launches forward personal balance towards unthinkable horizons; it opens a new door in our existence but also creates resistance and self defense. If EDUCERE is like plowing the ground, FORMARE is to sow the seed of vitality, like a new force waiting to emerge in new life, ready to give abundant fruit.

If educere is the work of the Father, formare belongs to the Son. We are trying to put on the feelings of Christ. Who, then, can carry forward this delicate operation of formation in our hearts but Jesus himself?

Jesus is truly the master of our life, he is the life, the truth and the way. He is the only one who can plant in our hearts and transfer his feelings to us, making us vibrate with his love and spreading to us zeal for the Kingdom. If he and his feelings are the final objective of FORMARE can’t he be like the potter who plays with the object of clay in his hands until it is pleasing to his eyes? [Jeremiah 18,4-6]. We remember the words of Isaiah: “Lord, we are the clay and you the potter, we are the work of your hands” [Isaiah 64,7].

Let us have Christ come to our lives and remodel us according to his wishes, to make of us the greatest work of art that we can be!

The Sisters are back!

2007-07-31T08:30:00.000-05:00

Well, guess who is back from vacation... Yes, you got it. Sister Margie and Sister Luz are back with us. No rest for the good, because they will lead communion services this comming weekend since Fr. Rolando will be away until Friday. Please support the sisters as they convey to you the Word of God and partake with you the gift of the Eucharist. Cheers!

Incarnate Word Sisters

2007-07-30T16:56:00.000-05:00

Our community was blessed by having Sister Rose Mary Forck and Sister Bernadette Forck among us. They used to live here at the convent in the late 60's. The community arranged a luncheon to welcome them at 12pm at the Hall this past Sunday. If you wish to send them a Thank You note do so here: rose.forck@amormeus.net or bernadette.forck@amormeus.net

The Mission of the Priest: EDUCERE

2007-07-28T19:00:00.000-05:00

The priest presents himself as an instrument of divine love with the purpose of digging out (e-ducere), bringing forth and shading light upon the reality of those who walk with him in faith, either at the conscious or unconscious level, along with the person's own history, wounds, gifts and weaknesses in order to enable that person to grow to the best of his or her possibilities.

It is in this sense that God operates: by His own work of creation He brings out of the void his creatures by conferring order and purpose to their life. God "educates" his people, rescuing them from the slavery of Egypt, attracting them by tenderness and goodness but also by setting them straight like a Father applies discipline to his own son in order to guide them towards the promised land.

EDUCERE means to collaborate with God's creative and constructive action. This action springs from a strong and tender love and its application often takes the scenery route. It requires infinite patience and benevolence like the patience of the farmer who knows how to wait and to respect the times of nature. It also requires the energy of someone used to hard labor, an energy stronger than the inertia of someone who fails to discover and embrace his or her own identity.

EDUCERE means to discover oneself and to learn to accept my neighbor. It is to pass from sincerity to truthfulness. It is to move from a subjective appreciation of ones feelings to the objective discovery of my own inner reality. It is going beyond an inventory of my feelings in order to discover with courage the true roots behind them.

Finally, EDUCERE means to learn how to pray "in spirit and truth" (Jn 4,24): prayer is the place where my own truth resonates before God's own truth, where the faithful can listen and tell God the whole truth.

Fr. Rolando's Letter of Appointment

2007-07-10T20:28:00.000-05:00

For those of you who would like to see my letter of appointment to serve as administrator at St. Mary's in Marfa, here it is. I hope you share with me the joy of serving God.

Fr. Rolando