Editor’s note: The following homily addresses the issue of immigration as a current and ever-challenging topic in our society and within the very life of the Church in Idaho. It was delivered by Father Tim Segert, parochial vicar at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Boise, during the Mass for the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Oct. 26, 2025). Drawing upon the day’s readings, Father Segert reflects on the call to justice, humility and the mercy of God as they relate to the moral and pastoral challenges surrounding immigration. By Father Timothy Segert, Parochial Vicar at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Boise It doesn’t take me to tell you that there is a major disagreement over immigration in our country right now. It’s not new, but it has definitely exploded recently. And, true to form, people immediately reach towards their favorite phrases or preferred political party to help express themselves. Tell me if any of these sound familiar: “Build the wall,” “America First,” and “Stop the invasion.” Or how about these: “No human being is illegal,” “Abolish ICE,” and “Build bridges, not walls.” This issue has come to be perhaps the main dividing line in our society right now, although it is certainly not the only issue. So what are we as Catholics supposed to do with this? The gut instinct is to reach for whatever is most natural for us. Some of us are immigrants, or know immigrants. Others have been affected by immigration in a negative way, perhaps by losing our jobs. So most of us already have a vested interest in how things go. But if we’ve learned anything from watching the news, acting purely on what our gut tells us isn’t always right. In fact, doing just that, without any kind of rational thought, has been exactly what has severely damaged our nation. What if we appealed to external truth instead? The Church has already given us a way of thinking about this matter, based on the wisdom of Jesus and His Church. Wouldn’t that be a better route? To do that, I would like to recommend that you read the Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2241 on this matter. It is extremely balanced and well-written. It’s a bit long, but I’m going to include it here because it’s more important than usual to hear the entire thing quoted: “The more prosperous nations are obliged, to the extent they are able, to welcome the foreigner in search of the security and the means of livelihood which he cannot find in his country of origin. Public authorities should see to it that the natural right is respected that places a guest under the protection of those who receive him. “Political authorities, for the sake of the common good for which they are responsible, may make the exercise of the right to immigrate subject to various juridical conditions, especially with regard to the immigrants’ duties toward their country of adoption. Immigrants are obliged to respect with gratitude the material and spiritual heritage of the country that receives them, to obey its laws and to assist in carrying civic burdens.” To me, it boils down to two points: ● A person has the moral duty and responsibility to do everything necessary, sin excepted, to keep himself and his family alive. This may include taking drastic measures at certain times. ● At the same time, each national government has the responsibility to keep their respective nations safe and to preserve the integrity of their national sovereignty insofar as it is in line with the natural law. Most of us are going to have an inclination to accept one of these principles over the other. But the Catholic way is the “both/and” way. As Catholics, we must hold these principles in tension, instead of collapsing one into the other. On the one hand, there are people in absolutely desperate situations who do not have enough food, water or proper shelter to survive, or who are actively on the run from people who might harm them. These people actually have a moral obligation to protect themselves and their family, which can include relocating themselves across national boundaries if the need is that extreme. Think of the Holy Family, for example. Immigrants’ basic human rights and human dignity are retained at all times and do not depend on government recognition. That means everyone, at all times, has the right to life, food, water, shelter, safety, private property, religious freedom and bodily integrity. As I mentioned before, these cannot be taken away even if a person illegally enters into another country which is not his own. This is part of Catholic Social Teaching. But there is another part as well. We hear numerous times throughout the Old and New Testaments to respect our rulers in all things outside of sin. This includes the duty that each and every government on earth has to protect its citizens, preserve its own culture and language, and regulate who enters the country. To act contrary to this without grave cause - that is, only in cases of basic human rights - is sinful. This is part of Catholic teaching as well. Popes Francis and Leo have summarized it well by saying again and again that it is important “to welcome, to protect, to promote and to integrate.” First, the host nation should welcome those she is legally able to receive. This is done so as to protect both the immigrants and citizens who already live in the host country. Next, immigrants should be promoted - that is, what is good and wholesome about their prior cultures can be retained and celebrated, especially in a nation like ours. And finally (and very critically), it is a moral duty of the immigrant to follow the laws of the new country, learn and operate in its language and culture, and become legally recognized and productive members of society. In other words, to integrate. As you can already see, these principles will sometimes clash with each other. In fact, they already have clashed with each other. But that doesn’t mean we let go of either one. Doing so can result in imbalances or abuses on either side. There have already been reports of mistreatment of people in detention centers who have illegally immigrated to this country - we have seen it on the news. Our bishops have criticized these situations. There have also been problems from not regulating the common good of our nation - increased drug and sex trafficking, people who never integrate into the nation’s economy and culture, and even loss of faith due to lack of inculturation. These are problems as well. We as Catholics are tasked with the messy goal of bringing these two principles together in a harmonious way. To let go of either side is dangerous. I would like to end by referring us back to God’s word given to us in the book of Sirach. However we harmonize these principles, He is concerned with justice. Hear the first reading again in a new light: “The LORD is a God of justice, who knows no favorites. Though not unduly partial toward the weak, yet he hears the cry of the oppressed. “The Lord is not deaf to the wail of the orphan, nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint. The one who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens. The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds, judges justly and affirms the right, and the Lord will not delay.”

By Gene Fadness For the ICR By outward appearance, St. Mary’s Catholic School in Boise looks old. It is. Built in 1949, the square red brick building lacks the contemporary look of today’s schools as well as the modern infrastructure. But the foundation of the school, inspectors note, is as strong as ever, stronger than schools built three and four decades later. Just as resilient are the teachers, staff and parishioners with the spiritual foundation to keep the school going, even through recent upheavals. Just three short years ago, school staff and parishioners wondered whether their school would last to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024. Enrollment was significantly down. Some grades were combined into one classroom with one teacher. There were rumblings that the diocese might close the school. In 2023, the downward trend in enrollment reversed. For nearly three years, the percent increase in enrollment has been in the double digits. A school that less than three years ago had fewer than 100 students now has 151, and there is no end in sight to the growth. “To quote a parishioner, ‘The people here are faithful and resilient,’ ” said Father John Kucera, pastor at the parish. Bishop Peter Christensen agrees. “With the recent school growth, the timing is providential for a renewed commitment to strengthening the foundation of Catholic education and parish life,” the Bishop wrote in a letter that launched a $3 million capital campaign to replace dated, drafty windows with energy-efficient windows, improve the building’s air conditioning and air flow as well as its lighting and accessibility. Also planned is an upgrade to the kitchen with a modernized warming kitchen, giving the school and parish the ability to host gatherings with greater hospitality and ease. The parish’s commitment to the school became very clear when a survey of parishioners asked them what improvements they deemed most important: the school upgrades, new parish offices and meeting spaces, or a new gymnasium. Parishioners ranked each of the projects with a high, medium or low priority. Of 240 responses, the vast majority chose the school upgrades. Even 60 percent of parishioners who did not have children or grandchildren or were alumni of the schools ranked the school upgrades first. The Omaha-based Steier Group that conducts fundraising campaigns for Catholic parishes scored the responses from one to 10 in priority. The school improvements came in with a score above 9, according to John Samson of the Steier Group. “Even those with no direct connection to the school came in at 9,” he said. “You might see that high a response in only about 20 percent of the projects we do.” To date, parishioners are backing up their choice of projects with their pocketbooks. By the time of the campaign’s official launch the weekend of Nov. 15-16, $480,000 of the $3 million had been pledged, the result of one-on-one meetings with some of the parish’s most involved families. The rest of the parish, sensing the enthusiasm, added their pledges after the launch weekend. By Nov. 21, the pledged amount was $914,300, almost a third of the goal. The response is reminiscent of the hardy families who raised the funds needed to build a church on farmland on Boise’s “western” end nearly a century ago, not long after the Great Depression. Located at 26th and State streets, the original church was built in 1937 and expanded in 2009. Pledges coming in so quickly means work on the projects can begin now rather than at the end of the three-year campaign. Samson said there is a good chance the windows will be replaced as soon as school gets out next summer. As parishioners walk by the school on their way to Mass and see their money already put to use, that should spur even more support for the campaign. Drivers passing by on busy State Street will see work being done on the school, sending a strong message that the now 76-year-old school is here to stay. Depending on the cost of the initial improvements – the projects still must be let out for bid – and the amount ultimately raised, there is a possibility that the parish offices and meeting and meeting space can be upgraded as well. The offices are in the former convent immediately west of the school, which housed the Benedictine nuns from St. Gertrude’s Monastery, who founded the school in 1949. Monsignor John J. Creegan served as pastor of St. Mary's Parish from 1937 until his death in 1974. (Courtesy photo) A tentative long-range plan is to raze the convent to build a new gymnasium and add desperately needed meeting and classroom space for the growing parish. Just more than 200 families joined the parish in 2024-25, a factor in contributing to the growth of the school. While pleased with the increasing enrollment, Principal Kevan Grant doesn’t want the school to exceed 200 students and lose the appeal of its low teacher-student ratio. Samson is impressed by the close collaboration between Grant and Father Kucera, an indicator that the parish and school communities are united, not always the case in some parishes when priests may want something different than principals. “These two collaborate well and are remarkably united,” he said. Neither Father Kucera nor Grant are surprised at the early success of the campaign. “Knowing how generous the parishioners are here at St. Mary’s, I cannot say I am surprised,” Father Kucera said, although the young priest who previously served smaller parishes as pastor is new to fundraising of this magnitude. “I must admit, starting a capital campaign was a little nerve-racking at first, but I have an incredible team of people advising me,” he said, adding, “I also believe that if we are doing the will of the Lord, the money will follow our mission, which is to help others know and encounter Jesus Christ.” In other words, a strong foundation, just like the old building that is St. Mary’s Catholic School.

Second Sunday of Advent Matthew 3:1-12 As we return to the beginning of our liturgical calendar, we evaluate the progress of our life of faith in light of the expectations of the Kingdom of God. Advent is the time of God’s hour, the hour of salvation. Christ will renew His passage through history, keeping alive our hope that the Kingdom of God and the transformation of our hearts are possible. The Church and Christians are the prophets of this hour, called to “go into all the world and preach the Good News,” rekindling hope that is often frustrated by our failures. We must proclaim change and conversion so that hope may be transformed into effective love, drawing us out of ourselves and into the brotherhood of God’s children. John the Baptist is a sign of the prophetic church. “The kingdom of God is near,” he said. His promises are true, and our hope is not in vain. “God can raise up children of Abraham from these stones ...” According to Jesus’ testimony, John is greater than a prophet (Lk 7:26). John inaugurates the Gospel (Acts 1:22; Mk 1:1-4); before him, there was only the Law and the Prophets. John’s role was to proclaim himself a mere precursor (Lk 2:15). He is not worthy to untie the straps of the sandals of the One He precedes (Jn 1:19-20; Lk 3:16ff). John proclaims Jesus as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (Jn 1:29). John’s language is strong and prophetic: “Repent.” Otherwise, the liberating Christ becomes the judging Christ. “Who has taught you to escape the wrath to come? ... Bear the fruit of repentance, and do not delude yourselves ... The tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire ...” So why did so many people flock to him? Why were they attracted to a prophet who challenged their traditions and way of life? John embodied the conversion he was calling for, and his actions conveyed the imminent arrival of God’s hour. It would have been impossible to live and act like that unless the hope he proclaimed was true. “John wore a garment of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey.” While the details of his austerity are not important, we must translate them into attitudes for our time. The Gospel recorded these events as symbols of John’s faith, freedom, spirit, radical poverty, and self-denial, and the people followed him (Mt 11:16-17). “Have you gone out to see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.” Jesus said that “among those born of women, no one was greater than John the Baptist” (Lk 7:24) and that “the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than he” (Lk 7:23). Therefore, we must understand the significance of our role as prophets of the kingdom, as we are anointed “members of Christ the Priest, Christ the Prophet and Christ the King” (Liturgy of Baptism). Advent challenges us to reflect on our role in the life of the Kingdom. Our witness will be the infallible measure of our faith.

Segundo Domingo de Adviento Mt 3, 1-12 Volvemos al inicio del calendario litúrgico de nuestra vida de fe, para evaluar su progreso a la luz de las expectativas del Reino de Dios: el Adviento, el tiempo de la Hora de Dios, la hora de la salvación. Cristo va a renovar su paso por la historia, manteniendo viva nuestra esperanza en que el Reino de Dios y el cambio de nuestros corazones son posibles. La Iglesia y los cristianos somos los profetas de la Hora de Dios y estamos llamados a: “Ir por todo el mundo y predicar la Buena Nueva”, llamados a reactivar una esperanza tantas veces frustrada por nuestros fracasos. Debemos anunciar el cambio y la conversión para que la esperanza se transforme en un amor eficaz, que nos desprenda de nosotros mismos y nos entregue a la fraternidad de hijos de Dios. Juan el Bautista es el signo de la Iglesia profética. “El Reino de Dios está cerca”. Sus promesas son ciertas, nuestra esperanza no es vana. “Dios es capaz de sacar hijos de Abraham de estas piedras…”. Según el testimonio de Jesús, Juan es más que un profeta (Lc 7,26) Juan inaugura el Evangelio (Hechos 1,22; Mc 1,1-4); antes de él había la ley y los profetas. El testimonio de Juan consiste en proclamarse mero precursor (Lc 2,15). No es digno de desatar las correas de las sandalias de Aquel a quien precede (Jn 1, 19-20; Lc 3, 16 y ss). Proclama a Jesús como: “Cordero de Dios que quita el pecado del mundo (Jn 1,29). El lenguaje de Juan es fuerte, profético: “conviértanse”. Porque de otra manera el Cristo liberador se convierte en Cristo juez. “¿Quién les ha enseñado a escapar de la ira venidera? … Den el fruto de la conversión y no se hagan ilusiones… el árbol que no dé buen fruto será cortado y arrojado al fuego…”. Entonces, ¿por qué acudía tanta gente a él? ¿Por qué sentían atracción por un profeta que cuestionaba sus costumbres y su estilo de vida? En Juan brillaba la conversión que pedía; en sus hechos se expresaba la cercanía de la Hora de Dios. Era imposible vivir así, actuar así, a no ser que la esperanza que anunciaba fuera cierta. “Juan llevaba un vestido de camello, con una correa de cuero a la cintura, y se alimentaba de saltamontes y miel silvestre”. El detalle de austeridad no es lo importante, sino que debemos traducirlo en actitudes para nuestra época. El Evangelio consignó estos hechos como un símbolo de la fuerza de su fe, de su libertad, de su espíritu, de su pobreza radical y de su renuncia a sí mismo, y el pueblo lo seguía (Mt,11); ‘¿Han salido a ver un profeta?’ Sí, les digo, y más que un profeta”. Si, como dice Jesús, “entre los nacidos de mujer, nadie fue más grande que Juan Bautista”, (Lc 7, 24), y añade que: “el más pequeño en el Reino de Dios es más grande que él” (Lc 7, 23), debemos deducir la calidad de nuestra responsabilidad como profetas del Reino: ungidos “miembros de Cristo Sacerdote, Cristo Profeta y Cristo Rey”. (Liturgia del Bautismo) El tiempo de Adviento nos interpela acerca de nuestra participación en la vida del Reino. Nuestro testimonio será el termómetro infalible de nuestra fe.

Parroquianos de la comunidad católica de Risen Christ en Boise, junto a su párroco, el Padre Ben Uhlenlkott, durante una de sus celebraciones en honor a la Virgen de Guadalupe, Emperatriz de las Américas. (Foto cortesía/ parroquia Risen Christ) Vero Gutiérrez Editora Asistente Para celebrar las fiestas en honor a la Virgen de Guadalupe, la comunidad católica de Risen Christ llevará a cabo su segunda Misa en español, que será presidida por el párroco Padre Ben Uhlenkott. Silvia Sagrero, una de las líderes de la comunidad hispana en esta parroquia, compartió que existe un gran entusiasmo entre los fieles por participar en esta celebración tan especial dedicada a Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. Señaló que esta fiesta no solo es importante para los hispanos, sino también una oportunidad para que otros feligreses de la pa- rroquia se unan, conozcan y compartan esta devoción mariana tan arraigada en nuestras culturas. La comunidad extendió una invitación abierta para que todos los que deseen participar puedan unirse en el festejo a Nuestra Señora de las Américas. La celebración se realizará el 12 de diciembre de 2025 a las 6:30 p.m. Después de la Eucaristía, como es tradición, se llevará a cabo una recepción con música, comida y bailes tradicionales, fomentando el encuentro fraterno entre las familias que forman parte de la parroquia. La Misa en español continuará mensualmente Debido al crecimiento y la participación activa de la comunidad hispana, se ha decidido celebrar la Misa en español de manera continua el primer domingo de cada mes, a partir del Miércoles de Ceniza del próximo año, 18 de febrero de 2026. Este paso marca un avance significativo en la integración pastoral y espiritual de los feligreses hispanohablantes dentro de Risen Christ. Un Ministerio Hispano en crecimiento Actualmente, la parroquia de Risen Christ cuenta con un Ministerio Hispano que acompaña a la comunidad hispanohablante a través de programas de educación religiosa, crecimiento en la fe, actividades sociales y oportunidades de servicio y caridad, todo en español. Entre las actividades regulares se ofrece un Estudio Bíblico en español todos los martes de 7:00 a 9:00 p.m. en el salón Room 1. Las personas interesadas pueden comunicarse con Silvia Sagrero en el correo bhernardita1858@gmail.com. En su página web, la comunidad de Risen Christ destaca su compromiso por honrar las tradiciones y costumbres religiosas hispanas, al tiempo que busca integrar plenamente a esta parte de la comunidad parroquial que ya forma parte activa de la vida de la Iglesia local. Recursos y servicios en español La parroquia también ofrece formularios y recursos en español, entre ellos el formulario de registro parroquial y las solicitudes para bautismos, lo que facilita que los feligreses hispanos puedan acceder a los servicios administrativos en su propio idioma. Contacto e información La parroquia Risen Christ está ubicada en 11511 W Lake Hazel Rd, Boise, ID. Para más información, los interesados pueden comunicarse a los números 208-362-65636 o 208-362-6584, o bien escribir al correo office@risenchristboise.org

De izquierda :Javier Trujillo, Rigoberto González, Norma Pintar, Cathy Hagadone, Patricia Watkins, Ralph May, Guadalupe Rodríguez, Becky Swartz, Diego Juárez y Memo Gutiérrez, la mayoría de ellos posibles miembros de la nueva Conferencia Hispana, acompañados por miembros del Consejo del Suroeste de Idaho de SvdP. (ICR foto/Vero Gutiérrez) Vero Gutiérrez Editora Asistente Un grupo de líderes laicos de diferentes parroquias de la Diócesis de Boise ha iniciado el proceso de preparación para conformar la primera Conferencia Hispana de San Vicente de Paul, que adoptará el nombre de Conferencia del Espíritu Santo. La decisión más importante para formar esta conferencia, explicó Ralph May, Director Ejecutivo de San Vicente de Paul en el área del Sur oeste de Idaho, es atender la comunidad hispana, la cual ha registrado un incremento considerable entre la población que atienden los voluntarios de la Sociedad. Aseguró que un gran porcentaje de las personas atendidas son hispanas, pero muchas no se sienten en con- fianza para expresar sus necesidades reales por la diferencia de idioma y cultura. Ralph May afirmó que, aunque se ha logrado un excelente trabajo con las conferencias ya establecidas, siempre han sido conscientes de la necesidad de contar con miembros de la comunidad hispana que entiendan mejor y puedan comunicarse de manera más cercana con quienes necesitan ayuda. “No es solo el idioma, sino también la cultura”, puntualizó. “Quienes atraviesan momentos de dolor se sienten más cómodos expresándose en su lengua nativa”. Norma Pintar, Coordinadora de Asuntos Hispanos, consideró que esta es una conferencia especial porque no pertenece a una sola parroquia, sino que está conformada por varias. Por ello se le ha denominado Conferencia Hispana del Espíritu Santo. Para su formación, se invitó a miembros de diversas parroquias de la diócesis y se inició el proceso con una introducción a la actividad de la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul y su labor en el Suroeste de Idaho. Durante la bienvenida a los posibles nuevos voluntarios, también estuvieron presentes Becky Swartz, presidenta del Consejo del Sur oeste de Idaho y Cathy Hagadone, tesorera, quien se encargo de explicar qué es una conferencia y cómo trabaja en coordinación con el Consejo. Cathy Hagadone, tesorera de la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul del Suroeste de Idaho, durante su exposición a los posibles nuevos voluntarios. (ICR foto/Vero Gutiérrez) También Hagadone habló am- pliamente sobre la historia y misión de la Sociedad, el trabajo que realizan a nivel local y las formas en que los nuevos miembros pueden integrarse, con el objetivo de que comprendan mejor cómo opera esta organización. Se explicó que las conferencias se reúnen una o dos veces por mes y que existen reglas claras: los vicentinos reciben un libro que guía las acciones que deben realizar. Una de las primeras recomendaciones fue asumir el compromiso de reunirse al menos dos veces por mes. Se reiteró que formar parte de una conferencia es un llamado especial. Los miembros deben conocer la vida y obra de San Vicente de Paul —quien comenzó la labor de organizar la caridad— así como la de los fundadores de la Sociedad, que posteriormente tomó su nombre. En los aspectos administrativos, la conferencia debe contar con un presidente, un secretario, un tesorero y un consejero espiritual, que puede ser sacerdote, diácono o laico. Ser parte de una conferencia implica responder a un llamado para integrar una comunidad de fe, amor, oración y acción. El trabajo diario de los miembros está sustentado en el Manual para los Miembros y en la Regla de la Sociedad. Cada conferencia programa sus actividades anuales, tiene su propia autoridad y flexibilidad para enfocarse en las necesidades más urgentes de las personas a las que sirve. Las reuniones pueden llevarse a cabo en diferentes parroquias, según la organización interna. Otro aspecto importante que explicó la tesorera del Consejo es que, de acuerdo con el manual, la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul no está sujeta a la jerarquía religiosa. “Se trata de una fraternidad eclesial alentada por la Iglesia y reconocida oficialmente como un instrumento del apostolado laico a través del testimonio de la caridad”. Por otro lado, Ralph May subrayó que, aunque en nuestro entorno ocurren muchas situaciones difíciles, no debemos olvidar el llamado al servicio. “Si dejamos de atender al que sufre y al que necesita, también dejamos de lado nuestro trabajo por la salvación a través del servicio a los pobres, es más lo que nosotros necesitamos a los pobres que lo que ellos nos necesitan a nosotros”, afirmó, recordando la inspiración de San Vicente de Paul y del Beato Federico Ozanam, fundador de la Sociedad. Durante la reunión, Guillermo Gutiérrez dirigió la reflexión en la que se les invitó a los asistentes a compartir qué creen que Jesús haría si estuviera aquí? ¿Qué nos invitaría a hacer? • Javier Trujillo: “Tratar de ayudar en lo que se pueda sin pensar ni esperar nada a cambio”. • Patricia Watkins: “Ser generosos con nuestro tiempo y disponibilidad”. • Norma Pintar: “No olvidarnos de los pobres y necesitados, que son nuestros hermanos”. • Rigoberto González: “Ayudar a los demás y abrir nuestro corazón para ver lo que Dios quiere”. • Guadalupe Rodríguez: “Recordar que debemos ver a Dios en los demás”. Durante esta reunión de información se compartió con los posibles miembros de la nueva conferencia hispana que los vicentinos tienen el servicio a los pobres como su elemento esencial. Cualquier persona que tenga necesidad deberá ser atendida, dando siempre preferencia a quienes son excluidos o experimentan adversidad, sufrimiento o pobreza material o espiritual. No se hace distinción de ningún tipo: se brinda ayuda sin importar raza, religión, estado civil, orientación sexual, nacionalidad o edad. Se trabaja tanto con familias como con individuos. A través de visitas domiciliarias y encuentros cara a cara, los voluntarios conocen de primera mano las necesidades de las personas, lo que constituye la característica principal de SVdP. Los miembros de la Sociedad, conocidos como vicentinos, buscan imitar a San Vicente de Paul en cinco virtudes esenciales que fomentan el amor y el respeto hacia los pobres: sencillez, humildad, gentileza, desprendimiento y fervor. Finalmente, extendieron la invitación para las personas que estén interesadas en formar parte de esta Conferencia se ponga en contacto con Norma Pintar, Coordinadora de asuntos Hispanos de San Vicente de Paul, o bien a través de la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul a través de su página web www.svdpid.org si desea unirse a algún otro de los programas de esta sociedad.

Doug Austin, former inmate, became Catholic 20 years ago while in prison. Austin collaborated with Deacon Mark Geraty, volunteer coordinator for the Prison Ministry of the Diocese of Boise, to create a new Catholic, nonprofit, reentry house in Boise. (Courtesy photo) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer A Catholic transitional house, the first in Idaho, for men transitioning from prison to society, is coming closer to reality. “It’s on the launchpad, but we still need support to get it off the ground,” said Deacon Mark Geraty, who serves at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist and is the volunteer coordinator for the prison ministry of the Diocese of Boise. “We have done prison ministry in the Diocese very well,” said Deacon Geraty. The prison ministry of the Diocese of Boise provides the sacraments and spiritual support to incarcerated men and women across the state of Idaho. From Masses to OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) classes, volunteers, both clergy and laity, ensure that the Church isn’t stopped by prison gates. “During COVID, everything kind of cratered,” Deacon Geraty said. “But it gave us a chance to really take stock of what we were able to provide to those serving prison sentences.” As restrictions enacted during the COVID pandemic of 2020 slowly lifted in 2022 and 2023, the prison ministry was able to return to providing its services. However, Deacon Geraty and others in the ministry wanted to add support to men and women leaving prison. “The Reentry Conference of St. Vincent de Paul of Southwest Idaho does an excellent job, but we wanted to go another step further. We wanted to provide a Catholic transitional house,” Deacon Geraty said. “About 95% of everyone who is incarcerated is going to leave prison at some point in their lives. They need to be met and brought into the community, and the Catholic Church, in particular, gives such a rational, constructive way for them to do it. From the monasteries to parishes, we know how to do community.” Transitional homes offer men and women a place to live while they get back on their feet after prison. “It’s really hard for people when they come out of prison,” Deacon Geraty explained. “They go from an environment where everything is chosen for them, everything is structured, to needing to make so many choices. It can be overwhelming.” Doug Austin, who was incarcerated for 42 years, knows firsthand how vital community support is when leaving prison. He became Catholic through the Diocesan ministry more than 20 years ago. When he left prison at the beginning of 2024, he chose to go to a Christian, non-denominational house because there was no Catholic house. While at the chancery about five months ago, Austin spoke with Bishop Peter Christensen. The above logo is for the new Catholic reentry-transitional home in Boise, Holy Family House. (Courtesy photo) An idea is born “Bishop Peter asked Doug how he was doing. When he found out that Doug was staying in a faith-based house, he said, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice if we had a Catholic house?’ Right then, a seed was planted,” Deacon Geraty said. Austin discussed the idea with Dick Gallegos, who had volunteered in the Diocesan prison ministry for more than 20 years. Then Austin, Gallegos and Deacon Geraty met at a coffee shop with Mike Gallagher, one of the founders of the St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) Reentry Conference. From that moment, they knew it was time to create Holy Family House. They reached out to Catholic Charities of Idaho (CCI) as they worked out the details of the house. “Eddie Trask, executive director of Catholic Charities, was a huge help. Joe Egbert, digital media coordinator at the Diocese, also helped us a lot with building our website.” Holy Family House is not affiliated with the Diocese of Boise, SVdP, or CCI. It is an independent, non-profit, 501(c)(3), organization. Austin is the president of the board, and Deacon Geraty is a board member. They and all the board members are dedicated to keeping a Catholic identity in Holy Family House. Currently, the house is for men only. They hope to expand in the future to include a house for women. “We have some very generous benefactors to help get this started, and they wanted to be assured that we were going to present an authentic Catholic living environment. We are not going to present an ambiguous or lukewarm treatment of the Catholic faith,” he said. “We want to provide the support, spiritually and physically, that the men need to successfully enter back into society. We want to provide Bible studies, rosaries and times for prayer. We also want volunteers from the Catholic community,” he continued. “We have been able to support a Catholic community for men in prison. We want to give them a Catholic community when they leave prison.” Holy Family House will also support sober living. “My experience with transition programs is that they are essential for individuals suffering from alcoholism and drug addiction to make a successful reentry into the community and the ability to become a contributing member of society,” said Matthew Geske, LCPC, clinical director of counseling at CCI. “This transitional program will also be a way for the Catholic community to support these brothers in Christ who are suffering.” Although the structure for the organization is in place, Holy Family House is still looking for a physical house. They also need volunteers and financial support. “There are a lot of expenses with a transitional house,” Deacon Geraty said. “When men get out of prison, they don’t have a job, and they probably don’t have a lot of money. It will be a requirement at the house for them to have a job, and there will be a program fee they will need to pay. But while finding employment, some will need a level of financial assistance. We also want volunteers, especially people willing to mentor them.” If non-Catholics want to stay at the house, they are welcome, Deacon Geraty said. However, non-Catholics will be those interested in investigating the faith and willing to fully participate in the faith-based activities such as prayer, Mass and educational and formational events. For more information about Holy Family House and to donate, visit idahoholyfamilyhouse.org .

By Bob Fontaine For the ICR Despite repeated falls and declining health, my friend Bob Sobotta remained determined to complete his memoir. But his memoir, “Reflections, Challenges and Blessings,” was unfinished when Bob, surrounded by his family, passed away peacefully in the evening hours of Tuesday, Nov. 4. Yet, in a deeper and far more beautiful way, Bob’s story is now complete—completed not by his own hand, but by the loving hand of God. Those of us blessed to have known Bob know that his life itself was a living memoir—a testimony written daily in the way he loved his family, lived his Catholic faith, and served with integrity, kindness and a humility which guided his life of servant leadership in both public and Catholic education. I had the privilege of working with Bob first at the Idaho State Department of Education and later in the Diocese of Boise. In both places, Bob stood out not only for his professional excellence but for his character. He carried his faith quietly but confidently. In every conversation, every decision, every challenge, Bob’s sense of fairness and compassion guided him. He never lost sight of the people behind the policies or the students behind the test scores. During our time at the State Department, I remember how his smile and laughter could dissolve a tension in a meeting or lighten a long afternoon. It wasn’t the kind of humor that drew attention to himself, but rather the kind that drew people together. He had a gift for connection, for making others feel seen and valued. When our paths crossed again years later at the Diocese of Boise, I was grateful for the opportunity to serve with him once more. Bob had taken on the role of Superintendent of Catholic Schools, and his devotion to Catholic education was inspiring. He worked tirelessly to ensure that Catholic schools across Idaho met accreditation standards but remained rooted in the mission of Christ. It was during those years that we met in our “Fourth Day” gatherings each week. Those of us who had completed a Cursillo would meet during lunch in the empty boardroom at the Diocesan office. Those moments became an oasis in the middle of a workday; a time to pray, reflect and encourage one another in our walk with Christ. Bob’s insights during those gatherings were always heartfelt. He could take a passage of Scripture and, with just a few words, make it come alive in practical, human ways. It was a time we treasured. Behind all his accomplishments stood his beloved wife, Loretta. Their 60 years of marriage was a true partnership of faith, love and respect. Loretta’s quiet strength, her deep roots in the Nez Perce community and her own faith journey shaped so much of who Bob was. He often spoke of her with deep affection and gratitude. His family—six children, 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren (and another on the way)—were his greatest pride and his truest legacy. Though his written memoir remains unfinished, I believe that God has now completed the final chapter. God has welcomed him home and filled in the remaining pages. And in that divine completion, Bob’s story finds its perfect ending—not an ending of sorrow, but one of fulfillment and peace. When I think of Bob now, I picture him with that familiar smile, that twinkle in his eye, perhaps sharing a laugh with the saints, or gently offering advice to a few angels about leadership. His humor, kindness, empathy and sense of fairness live on in all who knew him. His faith continues to inspire. And his story—though unfinished here—will continue to be written in the lives he touched. Rest well, my friend. Your memoir is now complete with God.

Al reunirse la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos (USCCB) durante su Asamblea Plenaria de Otoño en Baltimore, los obispos emitieron un mensaje especial en el que expresaron su preocupación por la situación cambiante que afecta a los inmigrantes en los Estados Unidos. Fue la primera vez en doce años que la USCCB recurrió a esta forma particularmente urgente de expresarse como cuerpo episcopal. La última vez que lo hizo fue en 2013, en respuesta al mandato federal sobre anticonceptivos. De conformidad con las normas relativas a las declaraciones y publicaciones de la Conferencia, solo se pueden emitir «mensajes especiales» en las asambleas plenarias y se trata de declaraciones que el presidente de la Conferencia, el Comité Administrativo o el conjunto de los miembros considera apropiadas en vista de las circunstancias del momento. Para demostrar el consenso del organismo, un «mensaje especial» debe recibir dos tercios de los votos de los miembros de la Conferencia presentes y votantes en la sesión plenaria para ser aprobado. Con 216 votos a favor, 5 en contra y 3 abstenciones, los obispos aprobaron por abrumadora mayoría el mensaje especial, lo que fue seguido de un prolongado aplauso del organismo tras la votación. El texto completo del mensaje especial de los obispos a continuación: Como pastores, los obispos de los Estados Unidos, estamos unidos a nuestro pueblo en nuestro Señor Jesucristo, por lazos de comunión y compasión. Nos inquieta ver en nuestras comunidades un clima de temor y ansiedad ante las prácticas de perfilamiento y la aplicación de las leyes migratorias. Nos entristece profundamente el tono que ha adoptado el debate contemporáneo y la creciente denigración de los inmigrantes. Nos preocupan las condiciones en los centros de detención y la falta de acceso a una atención pastoral adecuada. Lamentamos que algunos inmigrantes que viven en los Estados Unidos han perdido su estatus migratorio de manera arbitraria. Nos preocupan las amenazas contra la santidad de los lugares de culto, y el carácter especial de los hospitales y las escuelas. Nos entristece profundamente cuando nos encontramos con padres que temen ser detenidos al llevar a sus hijos a la escuela o cuando intentamos consolar a familiares que ya han sido separados de sus seres queridos. A pesar de los obstáculos y prejuicios, por generaciones, los inmigrantes han contribuido inmensamente al bienestar de nuestra nación. Como obispos católicos, profesamos nuestro amor por nuestro país y oramos por su paz y prosperidad. Por este preciso motivo nos sentimos obligados en este entorno a elevar nuestras voces en defensa de la dignidad humana otorgada por Dios. La enseñanza católica exhorta a las naciones a reconocer la dignidad fundamental de todas las personas, incluidos los inmigrantes. Como obispos, abogamos por una reforma significativa de las leyes y los procedimientos migratorios de nuestra nación. La dignidad humana y la seguridad nacional no son valores en conflicto. Ambas pueden alcanzarse con buena voluntad y uniendo esfuerzos. Reconocemos que las naciones tienen la responsabilidad de controlar sus fronteras y establecer un sistema de inmigración justo y ordenado por el bien común. Sin dichos procedimientos, los inmigrantes corren el riesgo de caer en la trata de personas y en otras formas de explotación. Las vías legales y seguras sirven como antídoto frente a esos riesgos. La enseñanza de la Iglesia se basa en la preocupación fundamental por la persona humana, creada a imagen y semejanza de Dios. (Génesis 1:27). Como pastores, recurrimos a las Sagradas Escrituras y al ejemplo de Dios mismo, donde encontramos la sabiduría de la compasión de Dios. La prioridad del Señor, como nos recuerdan los profetas, es para los más vulnerables: las viudas, los huérfanos, los pobres y los migrantes (Zacarías 7:10). En el Señor Jesús, vemos a Aquel que se hizo pobre por nosotros (2 Corintios 8:9), vemos al buen samaritano que nos levanta del polvo (Lucas 10:30-37) y vemos a Aquel que se encuentra en los más pequeños (Mateo 25). La preocupación de la Iglesia por el prójimo y nuestra preocupación aquí por los inmigrantes son una respuesta al mandato del Señor de amar como Él nos ha amado (Juan 13:34). A nuestros hermanos y hermanas inmigrantes, estamos con ustedes en su sufrimiento, pues si un miembro sufre, todos sufren (1 Corintios 12:26). ¡No están solos! Observamos con gratitud que tantos de nuestros sacerdotes, religiosos consagrados, y fieles laicos ya están acompañando y asistiendo a inmigrantes en sus necesidades humanas básicas. Exhortamos a todas las personas de buena voluntad a continuar y ampliar esos esfuerzos. Nos oponemos a las deportaciones masivas e indiscriminadas. Oramos por el fin de la retórica inhumana y de la violencia, ya sea dirigida contra inmigrantes o contra los organismos de seguridad. Oramos para que el Señor guíe a los líderes de nuestra nación y estamos agradecidos por las oportunidades pasadas y presentes de dialogar con funcionarios públicos y electos. En este diálogo, continuaremos abogando por una reforma migratoria significativa. Como discípulos del Señor, seguimos siendo hombres y mujeres de esperanza, ¡y la esperanza no defrauda! (Romanos 5,5). Que el manto de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe nos envuelva a todos en su maternal y amoroso cuidado y nos acerque cada vez más al corazón de Cristo.

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As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for their Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, the bishops issued a Special Message addressing their concern for the evolving situation impacting immigrants in the United States. It marked the first time in 12 years the USCCB invoked this particularly urgent way of speaking as a body of bishops. The last one issued in 2013 was in response to the federal government’s contraceptive mandate. Under the regulations pertaining to statements and publications of the Conference, a “Special Message” may only be issued at plenary assemblies, and they are statements which the President of the Conference, the Administrative Committee, or the general membership consider to be appropriate in view of the circumstances at the time. To show the consensus of the body, a Special Message must receive two-thirds of the Conference members present and voting at the plenary in order to pass. In a vote of 216 votes in favor, 5 votes against, and 3 abstentions, the bishops overwhelmingly approved the Special Message, with sustained applause of the body following the vote. The full text of the bishops’ Special Pastoral Message follows: “As pastors, we the bishops of the United States are bound to our people by ties of communion and compassion in Our Lord Jesus Christ. We are disturbed when we see among our people a climate of fear and anxiety around questions of profiling and immigration enforcement. We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants. We are concerned about the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care. We lament that some immigrants in the United States have arbitrarily lost their legal status. We are troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools. We are grieved when we meet parents who fear being detained when taking their children to school and when we try to console family members who have already been separated from their loved ones. “Despite obstacles and prejudices, generations of immigrants have made enormous contributions to the well-being of our nation. We as Catholic bishops love our country and pray for its peace and prosperity. For this very reason, we feel compelled now in this environment to raise our voices in defense of God-given human dignity. “Catholic teaching exhorts nations to recognize the fundamental dignity of all persons, including immigrants. We bishops advocate for a meaningful reform of our nation’s immigration laws and procedures. Human dignity and national security are not in conflict. Both are possible if people of good will work together. “We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good. Without such processes, immigrants face the risk of trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Safe and legal pathways serve as an antidote to such risks. The Church’s teaching rests on the foundational concern for the human person, as created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). As pastors, we look to Sacred Scripture and the example of the Lord Himself, where we find the wisdom of God’s compassion. The priority of the Lord, as the Prophets remind us, is for those who are most vulnerable: the widow, the orphan, the poor, and the stranger (Zechariah 7:10). In the Lord Jesus, we see the One who became poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9), we see the Good Samaritan who lifts us from the dust (Luke 10:30–37), and we see the One who is found in the least of these (Matthew 25). The Church’s concern for neighbor and our concern here for immigrants is a response to the Lord’s command to love as He has loved us (John 13:34). “To our immigrant brothers and sisters, we stand with you in your suffering, since, when one member suffers, all suffer (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:26). You are not alone! “We note with gratitude that so many of our clergy, consecrated religious, and lay faithful already accompany and assist immigrants in meeting their basic human needs. We urge all people of goodwill to continue and expand such efforts. “We oppose the indiscriminate mass deportation of people. We pray for an end to dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, whether directed at immigrants or at law enforcement. We pray that the Lord may guide the leaders of our nation, and we are grateful for past and present opportunities to dialogue with public and elected officials. In this dialogue, we will continue to advocate for meaningful immigration reform. As disciples of the Lord, we remain men and women of hope, and hope does not disappoint! (cf. Romans 5:5) “May the mantle of Our Lady of Guadalupe enfold us all in her maternal and loving care and draw us ever closer to the heart of Christ.”

By Tish O’Hagan Diocese of Boise, Director of Worship I’ve written a lot about Advent for the Register over the years, some of it more liturgy-based, nuts-and-bolts factual and some of it more esoteric. The feasts, the Propers for the Mass and the Hours, and the environment of the season are gifts to us of the liturgical calendar. They help us, if we are attentive, to open our hearts to the coming of Christ, the commemoration of His birth at Christmas and His coming at the end of time. This year, in preparation for Advent, I’d like to write about—and invite ICR readers to think about—a way of perceiving the Christ who has already come and is coming, using a line from a poem called “Nativity,” by the poet Li-Young Lee. Lee was born in Indonesia of Chinese parents. His father was a passionate Christian minister during the reign of Mao Zedong. Lee’s family fled China, then Indonesia, to escape persecution. Once in the United States, Lee became an American and a celebrated poet, his poetic vision broadened by his experience as an immigrant and by his Christian background. “Nativity” is a beautiful poem, and I encourage everyone to look it up and read it. For this piece, I’m only quoting the last line: “out of what little earth and duration/out of what immense goodbye/each must make a safe place of his heart/before so strange and wild a guest/as God approaches.” In the time of Christ, religious theologians and scholars knew that Christ was coming. They had studied scripture and prophecies and seen that all the signs that foretold his birth were in place. They knew the time of the Messiah was imminent. Indeed Simeon, the blind man who received the child Jesus into the temple, proclaims it: “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32). And yet, when Jesus did come, the religious elite denied that he was the Messiah they had long been waiting for. Why? Why did a blind man see more clearly than the elect of Israel? Perhaps it was because then, as now, our vision tends to be clouded and our hearts closed to the one God, if God does not look or behave the way we want or expect. Perhaps it is because, unlike Simeon, the religious leaders of the time were not prepared for an “immense goodbye.” Simeon’s disability, his age and readiness for his own death, had humbled him to the point that his heart was fully ready to receive the true image of God. He had no fixed image of God; Simeon’s blindness meant that he could not see other than with his heart, and it was with his heart that he saw the Messiah and thanked God for his coming. Could it be that, like the pharisees, our impulse to make God in our own image is so strong that when he does not conform to that image, we reject him? That in the tameness and timidity of our perception of God, we have hearts that are unprepared to receive him? In Advent is our opportunity for a humility like Simeon’s. Over the next month, may we try to imagine that the Christ who is coming may not look as expected. In Advent is our opportunity to prepare our hearts for the entirety of the guest who approaches, and give welcome there.