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Photo of St. Mary's Catholic Students at All Schools Mass By Bishop Peter F. Christensen Catholic Schools Week invites our diocesan family to pause in gratitude and hope as we celebrate the life of our Catholic schools—their academic excellence, their communities of care, and their generous service. Yet this week also calls us to something deeper: to renew our commitment to the distinctly evangelical vocation of Catholic education entrusted to us as shepherds, educators, parents, and families of faith, flows from fidelity to the Church’s mission of evangelization fulfilled in making disciples and building the Kingdom of God. In a cultural moment that often prizes neutrality over conviction, Catholic schools are called to a particular kind of courage: the courage to be unmistakably Catholic. This courage does not reject dialogue or academic rigor; rather, it flows from fidelity to the Church’s mission to exalt the risen and victorious Christ as Lord and Savior for all humanity.  The Directory for Catechesis  reminds us that education and evangelization are inseparable in the life of the Church. Catholic schools are not simply institutions that include religious content alongside secular subjects; they are communities where the Gospel permeates the entire educational climate. Their purpose is not limited to conveying information about the faith, but to propose Christ as the definitive meaning of human life. To dilute or bracket this evangelical purpose in the name of neutrality is not an act of respect, but a failure to live the vocation entrusted to Catholic education. The challenge of truth stands at the heart of this vocation. In the Passion narrative, Jesus stands before Pontius Pilate and declares, “For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” Pilate responds with a question that continues to echo through history: “What is truth?” That question—asked with skepticism and distance—captures a temptation that still confronts Catholic education today. When truth is treated as relative, provisional, or purely subjective, the proclamation of the Gospel is reduced to one opinion among many. Catholic schools, however, are called to stand not with Pilate’s doubt, but with Christ’s witness. The Church has never taught that all religions are equal in their truth claims or moral vision. While she acknowledges that elements of truth and goodness can be found in other religious traditions, she also professes—clearly and consistently—that the fullness of truth is revealed in Jesus Christ and entrusted to the Church. The General Directory for Catechesis  insists that catechesis and Catholic education must present this fullness faithfully and confidently. Authentic dialogue does not require the suspension of truth; it presupposes it. For this reason, Catholic schools must resist the temptation of false neutrality. A purely descriptive or non-committal presentation of Catholicism—one that avoids doctrinal clarity or moral claims for fear of controversy—empties Catholic education of its missionary heart. Evangelization is not coercion. As the Directory for Catechesis  makes clear, it is the loving proposal of Christ, offered with respect for freedom and conscience, yet never reduced to vague spirituality or a lowest-common-denominator ethic. This evangelical vocation extends to all students, not only those who are already Catholic. Catholic schools rightly welcome families from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, and such diversity enriches the school community. Yet hospitality must never be confused with silence. To enter a Catholic school is to enter a community that believes something definite about God, the human person, morality, and salvation. To obscure those convictions in the name of inclusivity is neither honest nor charitable. The Church’s educational vision has always been one of integral formation—intellectual, moral, spiritual, and human. Catholic education seeks not merely to inform minds, but to form hearts and consciences in truth and freedom. Truth, as the Church teaches, is not an abstract idea imposed from without; it is a Person who liberates. When Catholic schools confidently proclaim Christ, they serve not only Catholics, but every student entrusted to their care, offering a vision of life grounded in dignity, meaning, and hope. In an age shaped by relativism and uncertainty, Catholic schools must recover the courage that belongs to their vocation. This courage does not close doors; it opens them—inviting students to encounter the living Christ and to discover the truth about themselves and the world. As your bishop, I give thanks during Catholic Schools Week for educators, administrators, and families who understand that Catholic schools are not called to mirror the culture, but to evangelize it. By presenting the fullness of the faith with clarity and charity, Catholic education remains faithful to its mission and to the truth that sets all humanity free. References Sacred Scripture: John 18:37–38. Congregation for the Clergy. Directory for Catechesis . Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2020. Sacred Congregation for the Clergy. General Directory for Catechesis . Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 1997. Second Vatican Council. Gravissimum Educationis  (Declaration on Christian Education), 1965. Congregation for Catholic Education. The Catholic School , 1977. Congregation for Catholic Education. Educating Together in Catholic Schools: A Shared Mission Between Consecrated Persons and the Lay Faithful , 2007.

By Jay Wonacott Director of Marriage and Family Life for the Diocese of Boise I am amazed at the complexity and the many levels of the Catholic Church and how they function together. Tip O’Neill, U.S. Speaker from the Reagan-era, once said that “all politics is local.” It may also be said that the experience of the Church is local, but there is much more to the Catholic Church. A universal, worldwide Church is a big Church. Most Catholics experience living the faith in their homes and at their local parishes. Sometimes people visit their diocesan cathedral and maybe see their local bishop once or twice. The bishop, of course, represents the diocesan Church, but also the universal Church as one of the successors of Christ’s Apostles. Most Catholics do not know much about the workings of the Church at the diocesan, national conference or Vatican levels. Church life is experienced at the local level, with the drama and politics of one’s local parish. However, all of these parts of the Church are intimately connected. It is important for people to know these layers of the Church and how they collaborate and interact. I would like to take the idea of National Marriage Week as an example, not only to talk about the value of marriage, but also to illustrate how the levels of the Church help promote marriage. Last November, Pope Leo’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith issued an official note on marriage, specifically addressing the idea of monogamy and the nature of marriage. It is officially titled Una caro: Doctrinal Note on the Value of Matrimony as an Exclusive Union and Mutual Belonging . Jay Wonacott The head of this Vatican office, Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, describes the purpose of the note: “In this Note, we will consider the most important interventions of the Magisterium on the given theme, as well as a series of authors from antiquity to the present — including theologians, philosophers and poets. We have found a great wealth of reflections that affirm the unity of the spouses, their mutuality and the all-encompassing significance of the marital relationship. In this way, the various texts come together to form a beautiful mosaic that will surely enrich our understanding of monogamy.” Having some theological training, I am one of those people who will read a document like Una caro for clarifying teaching, but also because it is part of my job to try to keep up with documents issued by the Vatican and the Magisterium of the Church. Here is a passage from Una caro that teaches about the nature of marriage: This expression is a verbal manifestation of a deeper reality: a conviction and a decision to belong to each other mutually, to be ‘one flesh,’ and to walk together along the path of life. As Pope Francis said: ‘Married couples, too, should form a first-person plural, a “we.” [They should] stand before each other as an “I” and a “you,” and stand before the rest of the world, including the children, as a “we.”’ This happens because, although they are two different people — two individuals who each retain their own unique and inalienable identity — the spouses have, by their free consent, forged a union that places them together before the world. It is a union that generously opens itself to others, but always starting from that unique and exclusive reality of the conjugal ‘we.’ There is great food for thought in this one small paragraph. Global teachings like these are shared with the universal Church, and then national churches work to develop practical programming or teaching based on what is coming from Rome. A great example of this is National Marriage Week. As the director of marriage and family life for our diocese, I received an email from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), promoting National Marriage Week 2026. The U.S. bishops have a website dedicated to marriage ministry called For Your Marriage. The email stated: Dear Marriage and Family Life Directors, Feb. 7-14 is National Marriage Week. The celebration of National Marriage Week is an opportunity to focus on the beauty of building a strong and dedicated life together through the sacrament of matrimony. World Marriage Sunday will be celebrated Feb. 8. This year’s theme from National Marriage Week USA is ‘Together With Purpose.’ Inspired by this national movement, our theme will be: Man and Woman He Created Them: Together With Purpose. This theme honors the unique gifts of men and women and how these gifts are expressed in a spirit of complementarity. We see men and women today lacking a sense of purpose, both in their personal lives and in relationships. This sacred week will honor the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia (‘The Joy of Love’). In an effort to emphasize that we have been created to complement one another, the Secretariat of Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth is offering various resources to all dioceses for those discerning marriage, engaged couples and those already living the vocation of marriage. These resources include an at-home weeklong retreat, a marriage-centered lectio divina, a preaching resource and flyers for parishes. Resources can be found through the USCCB and For Your Marriage. Check back regularly for updates, as new resources will be added. At the diocesan level, I share this information with our parishes, which then decide how to share it with parishioners through social media or parish bulletins. The parish level decides what it would like to do to support marriage in local communities. A great example of this process is our upcoming local marriage retreat at St. Mark’s. I am collaborating with leaders at St. Mark’s and St. John’s Cathedral to promote a Valentine’s Day weekend marriage retreat at St. Mark’s Catholic Church. The retreat will be held Friday, Feb. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 14, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is titled Tools to Cultivate Your Marriage. The retreat will include fun Friday night activities, practical content to nurture marriage, Saturday morning Mass and meals. It is open to engaged and married couples. It is at the parish level where “faith” meets “life.” The multiple levels of the Church make it rich and complex. The Body of Christ has many parts working together for the benefit of the everyday Catholic who is simply trying to live the faith, follow the Lord and receive the grace Jesus wants to give through his imperfect servants striving to do his will. Do something for your marriage this February. Read a Church document on marriage and discuss it, participate in the at-home weeklong retreat provided by the USCCB, or join us at St. Mark’s for our local marriage retreat.

By Emily Woodham Staff Writer St. John the Almsgiver (also known as “the Almoner,” “the Merciful” and “the Compassionate”) has spurred saints to charity and magnanimity for centuries. John was born in Amathus, Cyprus, around A.D. 560 to a wealthy, devout family. He was well educated. His father owned land and was involved in politics. John enjoyed praying, reading and studying, and he especially loved reading about the saints. One night, when John was 15, he had a vision of the most beautiful and joyful woman he had ever seen, who wore a garland of olive leaves around her head. She said that she was the cause of God’s coming in the Incarnation and that she would bring him to God. John believed he had seen a vision of the virtue of compassion, or charity, because it was God’s compassion and charity that brought about the Incarnation. Excited by the vision, John quickly dressed and, just before dawn, went to the church to pray. On his way, he saw a beggar shivering in the cold. He gave the beggar his goatskin cloak. Then a man in white appeared and gave him a bag containing 100 gold coins, telling him to use the money however he liked. Before John could return the sack, the man in white disappeared. John was astonished and vowed to outdo God in generosity. However, God continued to be more generous than John ever could be. One day, John realized that his vow was a vain effort to tempt God, and he marveled that God remained merciful and generous anyway. He repented. From then on, he gave generously and without judgment to everyone in need or who asked for help, simply in imitation of God’s generosity and love. At his father’s insistence, John married as a young man. He and his wife had several children; however, none survived early childhood. After his wife died — possibly from complications of childbirth — John devoted his spare time to helping the poor and sick in his community. His wisdom and benevolence became well known throughout the region. Nicetas, the newly appointed governor of Alexandria, and Emperor Heraclius (610–641) insisted that John become patriarch, or archbishop, of Alexandria, “the throne of St. Mark the Apostle.” (This was a time when bishops could be elected by the people of their dioceses or appointed by a ruler.) John attempted to dissuade them, but to no avail. He was consecrated patriarch around 611. John cleared the churches of Alexandria of heresy. Heretical clergy were required either to repent or to leave. Those who repented were required to sign declarations affirming adherence to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Although Nicetas believed John was too forgiving, the Church in Alexandria flourished. John was deeply concerned for the spiritual care of everyone in his archdiocese — clergy and laity, rich and poor alike. He treated his clergy with fatherly care, ensuring they had adequate income and housing so they would not be tempted by bribes. He also arranged to sit in a chair outside the cathedral every Wednesday and Friday, assisted by only a few staff members, so that anyone could approach him with spiritual or physical needs. In 611, the Sassanid Persians conquered Antioch. Hundreds of Syrians fled to Alexandria for safety. John’s biographers said he ensured that all the refugees were provided for “as brothers.” He built poorhouses and hostels for them, provided money for food and necessities, and ensured hospitals offered free medical care. Soon afterward, a famine struck. John learned that mothers who had recently given birth were standing in long lines to receive food for their families. Deeply moved by compassion for these vulnerable women and their infants, he had seven lying-in hospitals — each with 40 beds — built throughout the city. Mothers were allowed to rest with their infants for at least seven days after childbirth. When they returned home, each was given money to assist with food and other needs. When the Persians sacked Jerusalem in 614, John sent clergy with food and supplies to assist Jerusalem and surrounding towns. He was especially concerned for nuns who had been attacked. He arranged care for survivors and paid ransom for the return of 1,000 nuns taken captive, ensuring they were able to return safely to their convents. By this time, John became widely known as “John the Almsgiver.” Persian governors, astonished by his generosity, sent bribes just to meet him, but he refused to go to them. In 619, the Persians began efforts to seize Alexandria. Through prayer, John believed the Lord was calling him to return to Amathus. Nicetas opposed the idea and urged John instead to travel with him to Constantinople to see the emperor. John agreed as a favor to his friend. However, when storms battered their ship, even Nicetas became convinced that God intended John to return to Cyprus. John died peacefully after returning home. Many miracles were reported at his funeral and later at his tomb. St. John the Almsgiver is a patron saint of Egypt.

From left, Senator James Risch, Representative John Shirts and Weiser Memorial Hospital (Weiser, Idaho) CEO Beau McNeff. (ICR photo/Emily Woodham) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer More than 70 people, including approximately 20 legislators, attended the annual Mass and breakfast for Idaho legislators just hours before the opening of the 2026 legislative session. The Mass, held on Monday, Dec. 12 and celebrated by Father Dennis Day at St. John’s Cathedral, is intended as a time of prayer and reflection for public officials as they seek God’s guidance heading into a new session of lawmaking. “My brothers and sisters, you face complex and often volatile issues,” said Father Day, a retired priest of the Diocese of Boise and a former board member of the National Right to Life Committee, in his homily. “You work under intense scrutiny and carry heavy burdens. This work is not easy. It was not easy for those first disciples either.” Father Dennis Day, retired priest of the Diocese of Boise, celebrated the Mass for legislators at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Boise. At the end of Mass, he blessed the legislators and prayed for their new session. (ICR photo/Emily Woodham) To weather the difficulties of the session, it is important for legislators to appreciate the friendship of colleagues and remember that the Church is praying for them. “God’s people pray continually for you and ask the Holy Spirit to grant you wisdom, courage and consolation,” Father Day said. “Rely on those prayers, but nurture your own prayer life as well, for that is essential.” Father Day encouraged all those present that American citizens should never feel self-conscious about praying, even in public. The Founding Fathers of the United States secured religious freedom by clearly distinguishing religious authority from state power, “but their intent was never to exclude people of faith from the public square,” he explained. “Their intent was having a public square where people of all religious traditions could participate freely. Separating Church and State was never meant to separate religion from society or to prevent faith from flourishing.” Just as Jesus called each of his disciples to a vocation, each legislator is called as a minister of the law, Father Day said. “In the ancient world, law was inseparable from justice. In that sense, legislators are ministers not only of law, but of justice and truth. Today, the Church honors that vocation and invites you to remember why you first chose to serve and to reflect on how you can continue to grow as servants of truth and justice for the common good.” Their mission includes “protecting the sacredness of all human life, upholding the dignity of every person without exception, safeguarding religious freedom, defending marriage and family and being a voice for the poor, the vulnerable and the weak.” Following the Mass, the Diocese of Boise hosted a breakfast for legislators in the cathedral’s parish hall.

Pro-life advocates assemble on the Capitol steps in Boise during the March for Life Rally in 2025.  (ICR photo/Philip Janquart) By Emily Woodham Staff Writer The 2026 Mass and March for life is scheduled for Saturday, January 24. This year’s theme is “Support Her, Protect Them.” “It’s so important to do both: to support the mother and protect the babies, just as our bishops have led us to do,” said Emily Naugle, president of Right to Life of Idaho. “We need to keep working so all babies may be welcomed in love and protected in law.” A Mass for Life is at 11 a.m. that day at St. John’s Cathedral, located at 807 N. 8th St in downtown Boise. The March for Life, presented by Right to Life of Idaho, will follow the Mass. It begins at 1 p.m. from the Gene Harris Bandshell at Julia Davis Park in downtown Boise. The march ends with the rally at the Capitol steps at 1:30 p.m. Matt Britton, Esq. is the keynote speaker for the rally. He is the general counsel and ex-officio for the 40 Days for Life Institute for Law and Justice. He has served as an elected prosecutor for four terms and as a county attorney. He has also served as counsel to many not-for-profits and U.S. companies operating globally. He is an international speaker on a wide range of legal and pro-life issues. The rally will focus on the “Decline to Sign” campaign of Right to Life of Idaho (RTLI). The campaign challenges the ballot initiative for the Reproductive Freedom and Privacy Act (RFPA). The RFPA would permit late-term abortions, abortions to be performed on minors without parental consent, and allow children to have sex change drugs and surgeries, according to the RTLI website, rtli.org . “‘Decline to Sign’ has goals of first and foremost making known that the RFPA exists and how it is a grievous assault to the dignity of the unborn,” Naugle said. “Sadly, we will most likely see the RFPA on our Idaho ballots in November. If the RFPA passes, all pro-life protections and laws will be made null and void in Idaho, and barbaric second trimester abortions will be legal.” Naugle said that solidarity among pro-life advocates is crucial this year. “Attending the Boise March for Life is more important than ever because it kicks off 2026 as the year Idaho fights for its life. As Mother Angelica said, ‘Let no one call to death someone God has called to life.’” The March and Rally for Life will continue no matter the weather. Participants are encouraged to bring positive, “family friendly” signs in support of the right to life. Some pro-life organizations will have signs to distribute. Restrooms are located in the Capitol. Immediately after the Life Rally on the Capitol steps, a cookie reception is being hosted in the basement of St. John’s Cathedral. For more information, visit rtli.org .

Parejas de Encuentro Matrimonial Mundial, durante una celebración en la parroquia de Sacred Heart en Emmett (ICR/ Foto Vero Gutiérrez) La Dirección del Ministerio Hispano/Latino de la Diócesis de Boise, parroquias y ministerios en esta área, han organizado para este 2026 una serie de talleres y retiros diseñados para apoyar a las parejas en su crecimiento emocional, espiritual y relacional. Cada actividad ofrece un espacio seguro y guiado para mejorar la comunicación, profundizar el compromiso y redescubrir el amor mutuo. Primer Taller de Vida Exitosa en Pareja en la parroquia de Jerome ( ICR/Foto Vero Gutiérrez) 1.  2do. Taller de Vida Exitosa en Pareja – St. Jerome Fecha:  30 de enero al 1 de febrero Lugar:  Parroquia de St. Jerome Tema:   Comunicación Horario:  Inicia viernes 30 de enero a las 6:00 p.m.; concluye domingo 1 de febrero con la Celebración Eucarística a las 12:00 p.m. Costo:  $100 por pareja (incluye materiales y alimentos) Modalidad:  Diurna; los participantes regresan a casa cada noche Impartido por:  Diácono Juan Carlos Urquijo Pedroso, de la Diócesis de Santa Clara en Cuba El taller de St. Jerome está enfocado en la comunicación y expresión de sentimientos, buscando que las parejas fortalezcan su capacidad de diálogo y comprensión mutua. Los interesados pueden registrarse en las oficinas parroquiales. 2. Dinámica Matrimonial  Lugar: Monasterio de la Ascensión Fecha:  28 de febrero al 1 de marzo de 2026 Lugar:  Monasterio de la Ascensión Horario: Inicia el sábado a las 8:00 a.m. y termina el domingo a las 5:00 p.m. Costo por pareja:  $250 con hospedaje / $170 sin hospedaje Teléfono de contacto:  (208) 613-4594 Bajo el lema “El amor es buscar el bien del otro” , esta dinámica propone actividades y talleres centrados en el crecimiento conjunto, el fortalecimiento de la relación y la práctica de la comunicación positiva. Los participantes tendrán la opción de hospedarse en el monasterio o regresar a casa al finalizar cada jornada. Cada uno de estos eventos representa una oportunidad única para que las parejas renueven su compromiso, aprendan herramientas para una mejor convivencia y fortalezcan su vínculo con Dios y con su cónyuge. La invitación está abierta para   que matrimonios de todas las edades puedan participar y aprovechar estas experiencias que combinan formación, reflexión y espiritualidad en un ambiente seguro y de acompañamiento.   3. Encuentro Matrimonial Mundial – Boise / Ontario, OR Fecha:  18 y 19 de abril de 2026 Lugar:  Parroquia Blessed Sacrament, Ontario, Oregon Horario:  Sábado 18 de abril a las 7:00 a.m.; finaliza domingo 19 de abril a las 5:00 p.m . Cupo limitado Este retiro intensivo brinda a las parejas un espacio de reflexión y renovación, centrado en el fortalecimiento del amor y la fe en la relación matrimonial. Para información e inscripciones: Juan y Paty: (541) 212-0527 César y Lety: (541) 709-1583 Rigo y Margarita: (208) 421-0709 Ignacio y María: (208) 739-2780 El encuentro no solo permite un tiempo de intimidad y diálogo entre los cónyuges, sino también la oportunidad de compartir experiencias y herramientas prácticas en un entorno seguro y respetuoso.

El “sí” de María inspira tres décadas de vocación Por Vero Gutiérrez Editora Asistente El Padre Robert Irwin celebró 30 años de sacerdocio en la parroquia del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús en Boise, el 8 de diciembre de 2025, fecha que coincide con la fiesta dedicada a la Inmaculada Concepción de la Virgen María. Parte central de su homilía estuvo dedicada a reflexionar sobre la virtud de la pureza y el poder transformador de la Palabra de Dios. Desde hace seis años, el Padre Irwin se ha desempeñado como capellán del hospital de Saint Alphonsus, donde brinda los sacramentos a pacientes católicos procedentes no solo de diversas ciudades de Idaho, sino también de otros estados del país que acuden para recibir atención médica. Además de esta labor, apoya a sa- cerdotes en sus parroquias cuando es requerido y coordina a más de treinta ministros extraordinarios de la Comunión que colaboran como voluntarios en el hospital. Diácono Bill Bieker; Padre Goodluck Ajaero; Padre Hippolytus Ezenwa; Padre Robert Irwin; Padre Andrew Colvin, Monje de la comunidad del Holy Transfiguration Monastery en Redwood Valley, California, y el diácono Salvador Carranza al terminar la Misa en la parroquia Sacred Heart Parish. (ICR foto/Vero Gutiérrez) Concelebraron con el Padre Irwin: el Padre Hippolytus Ezenwa, párroco del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús; el Padre Goodluck Ajaero, vicario de Holy Apostles; el Padre Andrew Colvin, Aggregate Monk of Holy Transfiguration Monastery en Redwood Valley, California, sacerdote de la diócesis de Baker, Oregón. También, asistieron los diáconos Bill Bieker, de Holy Apostles, y Salvador Carranza, director del Programa de Diaconado Permanente de la diócesis de Boise. En su homilía, el Padre Irwin destacó la celebración de la Inma- culada Concepción, recordando que María, nuestra Santísima Madre, desde el momento de su concepción, fue preparada para ser el recipiente puro del nacimiento de Jesús, Hijo de Dios. El Padre estableció un vínculo profundo entre esta celebración y sus tres décadas de ministerio, afirmando que su vocación está íntimamente ligada a las apariciones marianas de Medjugore. Conocer aquel milagro lo llevó a rezar el rosario y cultivar una reflexión más profunda sobre su llamado. El Padre Robert Irwin fue ordenado por el Reverendo Obispo Thomas J. Connolly de la diócesis de Baker, el sacerdote junto a ellos es Padre James Patrick, en ese tiempo, rector de la Catedral de San Francisco de Sales (Foto/ Cortesía Padre Irwin) Citando a la hermana Linda Buck, CSJ, compartió: “Recibir algo verdaderamente no es absorberlo sin cuestionarlo, sino dejar que te toque y decidir cómo te moldea. El ‘sí’ de María condujo a la transformación de los corazones a través de la vida de su hijo Jesús”. El Padre Irwin reflexionó sobre la obediencia y la responsabilidad que conlleva ser sacerdote. Tal como María respondió con humildad, cada sacerdote ofrece a Dios un “si” personal, sostenido también por el “si” de la comunidad que lo recibe. Recordó que ningún sacerdote católico romano está solo; siempre tiene que pertenecer a una orden o a una diócesis y vivir en pureza y obediencia. Decir “sí” a Dios: la vocación del Padre Irwin Al igual que el “sí” de María, insistió el Padre Irwin, cada sacerdote debe prometer en voz alta “obediencia al obispo y a sus sucesores”: una llamada y una respuesta que son tanto personales como comunitarias. El Padre pidió a la comunidad ahí congregada hacer oración por los jóvenes “Les pido que recen por los jóvenes en discernimiento; por quienes los acompañan en su formación; y por todos aquellos que ya han respondido a la llamada, para que perseveren en santidad, pureza y obediencia. Harold M. Portch, abuelo del Padre Irwin, recibe la Sagrada Comunión en la parroquia Saint Patrick, en Madras, Oregon, en 1995, durante la ordenación sacerdotal de su nieto . (Foto/cortesía Padre Irwin) Confió que, aunque disfrutaba profundamente ejercer como párroco, aceptó con obediencia el llamado a servir en el hospital: un ministerio donde los enfermos y sus familias buscan milagros de curación y transformación de vida. Visiblemente emocionado, reconoció que ha sido una bendición servir durante estos seis años a los pacientes, sus familiares y al personal del hospital. Muchos de ellos están buscando un milagro de curación y nueva vida, lo que, normalmente, logran y los lleva a un cambio de vida. Otro aspecto central de su mensaje fue el valor de la Palabra. Señaló que uno de los títulos de María es “Tabernáculo de la Palabra”, y compartió una tradición según la cual María, durante su juventud, dedicaba tiempo a la lectura de las Escrituras. “Le gustaba tanto leer las Sagradas Escrituras que el Verbo se encarnó en ella”, afirmó. Así como María preparó su corazón para que el Verbo cobrara vida, el Padre Irwin subrayó que los sacerdotes también están llamados a ser “tabernáculos de la Palabra”, vasos puros que permitan a Dios hacerse presente en el mundo. Recordó que ninguna vocación se vive para uno mismo; el llamado cristiano siempre existe para la evangelización y la construcción del Reino. El Padre concluyó invitando a renovar el compromiso con la pureza y la santidad personal: “La Inmaculada Concepción de nuestra Santísima Madre dio lugar al mayor don que el mundo jamás haya visto. ¿Qué pasaría si volviéramos a fomentar la pureza en nuestro mundo? Seamos ese cambio, viviendo vidas puras y santas. La pureza y la Palabra son tan poderosas que pueden transformar culturas y cambiar el mundo. Antes de iniciar la Liturgia Eucarística, el Padre Irwin compartió que la razón principal por la que es católico y sacerdote es la Sagrada Eucaristía, fuente y cumbre de nuestra fe, y fuerza diaria para vivir la vocación. Padre Irwin, durante la Celebración Eucarística por su 30 aniversario sacerdotal con el Padre Goodluck Ajaero y el diácono Bill Bieker. (ICR foto/Vero Gutiérrez) Trayectoria ministerial El Padre Robert Irwin se incardinó en la diócesis de Boise el 5 de mayo de 2016. Fue ordenado sacerdote el 8 de diciembre de 1995 para la diócesis de Baker, en Madras, Oregón, por el obispo Thomas Connolly. Antes de su llegada a Boise, sirvió como: • Vicario parroquial en St. Mary, Pendleton (1995–1998); • rector de San Francisco de Sales en Baker City (1998–2005); • párroco en Blessed Sacrament, Oregón (2005–2010); • vicario parroquial en Saint George’s, Post Falls (2010–2011); • administrador parroquial de Good Shepherd, Soda Springs (2011–2013); • pastor en Jerome (2013–2017); • pastor en Our Lady of the Valley, Caldwell (2017–2018). Desde 2019 ejerce como capellán del hospital Saint Alphonsus, donde continúa su ministerio en la actualidad.

Mary’s ‘yes’ inspires three decades of vocation From left, Deacon Bill Bieker, deacon at Holy Apostles Parish in Meridian, Father Goodluck Ajaero, parochial vicar at Holy Apostles, Father Hippolytus Ezenwa, pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Boise, Father Robert Irwin, chaplain at Saint Alphonsus Hospital in Boise, Father Andrew Colvin, a monk at Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Calif., and Deacon Salvador Carranza, director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate for the Diocese of Boise, celebrated Father Irwin’s ordination anniversary. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) By Vero Gutiérrez Assistant Editor Father Robert Irwin celebrated 30 years of priesthood at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Boise on Dec. 8, 2025, a date that coincides with the feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A central part of his homily was dedicated to reflecting on the virtue of purity and the transforming power of the Word of God. For the past six years, Father Irwin has served as chaplain at Saint Alphonsus Hospital, where he provides the sacraments to Catholic patients coming not only from various cities in Idaho, but also from other states who travel there seeking medical care. In addition to this ministry, he supports priests in their parishes when requested and coordinates more than 30 extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion who volunteer alongside him at the hospital.   Father Irwin shared that the principal reason he is Catholic and a priest is the Holy Eucharist. (ICR photo/Vero Gutiérrez) Concelebrating with Father Irwin were Father Hippolytus Ezenwa, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish; Father Goodluck Ajaero, parochial vicar of Holy Apostles Parish; and Father Andrew Colvin, an aggregate monk of Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Redwood Valley, California, and a priest of the Diocese of Baker, Oregon. Also in attendance were Deacons Bill Bieker of Holy Apostles Parish and Deacon Salvador Carranza, director of the Permanent Diaconate Program of the Diocese of Boise. In his homily, Father Irwin highlighted the celebration of the Immaculate Conception, recalling that Mary was prepared from the moment of her conception to be the pure vessel chosen for the birth of Jesus. He drew a moving parallel between this feast and his 30 years of ministry, affirming that his vocation is deeply connected to the Marian apparitions at Medjugorje. Learning about those events led him to pray the rosary and reflect more deeply on his calling. Quoting Sister Linda Buck, CSJ, he shared: “To truly receive something is not to absorb it without question, but to let it touch you and decide how it shapes you. Mary’s ‘yes’ led to the transformation of hearts through the life of her Son, Jesus.” During his ordination in 1995, Father Irwin kneels before Bishop Thomas J. Connolly, then Bishop of the Diocese of Baker. (Courtesy photo) Saying ‘yes’ to God Father Irwin reflected on the obedience and responsibility of the priestly vocation. Just as Mary responded with humility, every priest offers God a personal “yes,” supported by the “yes” of the community that welcomes him. He reminded those present that no Roman Catholic priest is ever alone; he must be united to a religious order or a diocese, living always in purity and obedience. Father Irwin invited prayers for young men discerning their vocation; for those guiding them in formation; and for those who have already answered the call, that they may persevere in holiness, purity and obedience. He confided that although he loved serving as a parish pastor, he obediently accepted the call to serve in the hospital — an assignment where the sick and their families seek miracles of healing and life transformation. He expressed that this ministry has been a profound personal blessing. Harold M. Portch, Father Irwin's maternal grandfather, receives Holy Communion at Saint Patrick Parish in Madras, Oregon, in 1995, during his grandson's priestly ordination . (Photo courtesy of Father Irwin) Mary, tabernacle of the Word Another central message of his homily was the power of the Word of God. He noted that one of Mary’s titles is “Tabernacle of the Word,” and shared a tradition that, in her youth, Mary devoted herself to reading Scripture. “She loved reading Sacred Scripture so much that the Word became flesh within her,” he said. Just as Mary prepared her heart to allow the Word to take root, Father Irwin emphasized that priests, too, are called to be “tabernacles of the Word” — pure vessels that allow God to become present in the world. He reminded the faithful that no Christian vocation is meant to be lived for oneself; the call always exists for evangelization and the building of the Kingdom. He concluded by inviting the community to renew its commitment to purity and holiness. “The Immaculate Conception of our Blessed Mother brought forth the greatest gift the world has ever known. What would happen if we began once again to foster purity in our world? Let us be that change, living pure and holy lives. Purity is powerful, and the Word is powerful.” The Eucharist, source of the call Before the Liturgy of the Eucharist, Father Irwin shared that the principal reason he is Catholic and a priest is the Holy Eucharist — the source and summit of the faith, and the daily strength to live out his vocation. Ministerial journey Father Robert Irwin was incardinated into the Diocese of Boise on May 5, 2016. He was ordained a priest on Dec. 8, 1995, for the Diocese of Baker in Madras, Oregon, by Bishop Thomas Connolly. Before coming to Boise, he served as: • Parochial vicar at St. Mary Parish, Pendleton (1995–1998) • Rector of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Baker City (1998–2005) • Pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish, Oregon (2005–2010) • Parochial vicar at St. George Parish, Post Falls (2010–2011) • Parish administrator of Good Shepherd Parish, Soda Springs (2011–2013) • Pastor in Jerome (2013–2017) • Pastor of Our Lady of the Valley Parish, Caldwell (2017–2018) Since 2019, he has served as chaplain at Saint Alphonsus Hospital, where he continues his ministry today.

Por Diácono Thomas Middleton Los católicos, en particular los laicos católicos, deben participar plenamente en el mundo. Como seguidores de Cristo, estamos llamados a moldear la cultura en lugar de limitarnos a reaccionar ante ella o, lo que es peor, ignorarla. En los últimos años, el odio y la violencia antisemitas se han disparado. Hay una serie de cuestiones graves y complicadas relacionadas con el aumento del antisemitismo en Estados Unidos y en todo el mundo. Es importante que los católicos examinemos nuestra conciencia y busquemos la sabiduría de Dios en lo que respecta a nuestra relación con los judíos. Incluso la definición del término “antisemitismo” requiere discernimiento. Tengo la sensación de que muchos católicos confunden el Israel de la Biblia con el Estado moderno de Israel. No son lo mismo. Algunos hechos históricos básicos: en el año 70 d. C., los romanos destruyeron el Templo de Jerusalén y asesinaron o esclavizaron a muchos judíos, lo que dio lugar a la “diáspora”, en la que los judíos que quedaron se dispersaron a escala mundial. El autogobierno y la soberanía judíos terminaron durante casi dos mil años. Sin embargo, la historia del judaísmo no terminó con la destrucción de Jerusalén y del Templo. De ella surgió el judaísmo rabínico. El Israel moderno se fundó en 1948, como culminación de muchas décadas de defensa “sionista”. Los sionistas abogaban por el establecimiento de una patria nacional judía en la región de Palestina. Se produjo mediante una declaración unilateral gracias a las maniobras políticas estratégicas del Gobierno británico, Estados Unidos y otros actores internacionales y, por supuesto, debido al horror del Holocausto. El 14 de mayo de 1948, David Ben-Gurión, que se convirtió en el primer Primer Ministro de Israel, proclamó formalmente desde Tel Aviv al mundo la existencia del Estado de Israel. Al día siguiente, las naciones árabes vecinas invadieron el país, y así comenzó la primera guerra árabe-israelí. Es interesante señalar que el Vaticano consideraba el sionismo como un movimiento político y, en 1948, no reconoció a Israel como país independiente. Existía preocupación por la situación sin resolver de Jerusalén, la seguridad de los cristianos que vivían en la región, la protección de los lugares sagrados cristianos y los derechos de la Iglesia dentro del nuevo Estado. No fue hasta 1994 cuando el Papa Juan Pablo II estableció relaciones diplomáticas plenas con Israel, intercambió embajadores y reconoció formalmente a Israel como Estado soberano. La Iglesia llegó a reconocer la realidad de la existencia del Estado de Israel. Para definir claramente el fanatismo antisemita, debemos realizar el trabajo intelectual necesario para comprender las diferencias entre las personas que simplemente son de ascendencia judía, las que practican la religión judía, el Estado moderno de Israel con sus acciones políticas y militares, y el pueblo judío, ya sean los casi ocho millones de judíos que viven en Israel o nuestro vecino de al lado. En una época en la que el odio y la violencia se consideran herramientas políticas justificables para oponerse a quienes no comparten las propias convicciones, debemos tomar en serio las palabras de nuestro Señor en el Evangelio de Mateo: “Mirad, os envío como ovejas en medio de lobos; sed, pues, prudentes como serpientes y sencillos como palomas”. Es un tema plagado de peligros. En primer lugar, debemos reconocer que desde el Concilio Vaticano II, los líderes de la Iglesia —los Papas Juan XXIII, Pablo VI, Juan Pablo I, Juan Pablo II, Benedicto XVI, Francisco y León XIV— han tenido el ardiente deseo de rechazar por completo la construcción antisemita cristiana de que el pueblo judío “tiene una culpa colectiva por la muerte de Cristo”. Era claramente la intención del Concilio y de todos estos Papas, algunos de los cuales son santos, identificar al pueblo judío como nuestros hermanos y hermanas mayores en la fe, con quienes compartimos una herencia espiritual y cuyo pacto con Dios Todopoderoso es irrevocable. Como católicos fieles, es nuestra responsabilidad comprender esta enseñanza en el contexto de nuestro tiempo. Es un tema que no se presta a eslóganes ni a tópicos. Debemos comprender que el Israel moderno no es una teocracia. Tiene un gobierno secular, elecciones democráticas y su sistema legal se basa en leyes seculares, no en la Torá. Es posible evaluar objetivamente las acciones políticas y militares del Estado de Israel y llegar a conclusiones coherentes sin ser antisemitas, al igual que es posible llegar a conclusiones sobre las políticas y acciones del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos o incluso de la Secretaría de Estado del Vaticano sin ser “antiamericanos” o “anticatólicos”. Cuando, como católicos, informamos a nuestra conciencia sobre las acciones políticas o militares de Israel como actor estatal, no estamos juzgando a Dios ni al Israel de la Biblia. Simplemente estamos evaluando y formando juicios para cumplir con nuestra función de llevar los valores del Evangelio a las estructuras políticas de una manera que pueda aplicarse a cualquier otra nación. Es nuestro derecho y nuestra obligación interpretar los signos de los tiempos a la luz de Cristo y de la verdad de Dios. Me gustaría señalar que los judíos dentro y fuera de Israel tienen cada día desacuerdos políticos válidos entre ellos. El “antisemitismo” es el prejuicio, la hostilidad, el odio o la discriminación hacia los judíos por ser judíos, ya sea por motivos religiosos, culturales o étnicos. Se trata de quiénes y qué son los judíos. Es confuso porque, en nuestra época, las críticas a las acciones del Gobierno israelí han degenerado con frecuencia en odio hacia todos los judíos. ¿Cuántas veces hemos oído en el último año el eslogan “Desde el río hasta el mar”? Es un llamamiento a la eliminación del Estado de Israel, lo que incluye a los casi ocho millones de judíos que viven allí. Los católicos debemos estar lo suficientemente informados como para no dejarnos llevar por un lenguaje que utiliza a Israel como sustituto del odio hacia todo el pueblo judío o el judaísmo. No podemos formar parte del odio hacia los judíos disfrazado de activismo político. La historia se repite. La oscuridad moral está ganando influencia. Abundan las teorías conspirativas sobre el dominio mundial de los judíos. El discurso de odio sin control se convierte en ataques a la propiedad, sinagogas, escuelas y negocios, que se transforman en manifestaciones públicas con consignas como “Matar a los judíos”, lo que conduce a la violencia. El asesinato se justifica como defensa propia. La coexistencia se considera imposible. Es un patrón predecible y familiar. Existe una diferencia fundamental entre la defensa política legítima y el uso de un lenguaje que incita a la violencia. En Australia, se produjo un aumento significativo y bien documentado tanto del lenguaje antisemita como de los incidentes antes de la masacre de Bondi Beach Hanukkah en diciembre de 2025. En Estados Unidos, en 2024, la Liga Antidifamación informó de 9354 incidentes antisemitas de acoso, vandalismo o agresión, lo que representa un aumento del 893 % con respecto a los diez años anteriores. Las cifras de 2025, aunque aún no se han tabulado, parecen mantenerse en niveles históricamente altos. Es hora de prestar atención. Nosotros, que somos católicos, tenemos la capacidad, por la gracia de Dios y el poder del Espíritu Santo, de ayudar a llevar la bondad de Dios al mundo. Como discípulos del Señor Jesús, nacido del pueblo judío, al igual que sus apóstoles y un gran número de sus primeros discípulos, tenemos la responsabilidad de decirle al mundo que tenemos una relación profundamente conectada con el judaísmo. Para ello se necesitará valor. Nosotros, que adoramos a Jesucristo como el Mesías, el cumplimiento de la Antigua Alianza, compartimos una continuidad en la historia de la salvación con el judaísmo. Tenemos raíces comunes y una esperanza común en Dios que debe llevarnos al respeto y al entendimiento mutuos, y a esfuerzos conjuntos por la justicia y la paz.

Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of Rome and Archpriest of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, presides over the closing of the Holy Door and the subsequent Mass and invites the faithful to manifest the presence of God in the places where there is no fraternity, justice, truth and peace. The closing of the Holy Door. (@Vatican Media) By Isabella Piro  Vatican News “Today, by closing the Holy Door, we raise to the Father a hymn of thanksgiving for all the signs of His love for us, while we keep in our hearts the awareness and hope that His embrace of mercy and peace remains open to all peoples,” said Cardinal Baldassare Reina, Vicar General of Rome and Archpriest of the Basilica of St. John Lateran. The Cardinal’s prayer echoed in the atrium of the Basilica on the morning of Saturday, December 27, as he presided over the solemn rite of the closing of its Holy Door. The cardinal ascended the steps in silence, then knelt on the threshold in prayer, before rising and closing the large door, while he bowed his head in a sign of reverence. Many faithful then approach the threshold and placed their hands upon it in a gesture of prayer and recollection. Bringing the Lord through the streets of Rome The same door had been opened on December 29, 2024, feast of the Holy Family. It’s closure instead occurred on the feast of St. John, Apostle and Evangelist, “the disciple who became Jesus’ closest friend,” the cardinal emphasized during the Mass that followed the rite of the closing of the Holy Door. John had “walked with Jesus, listened to His voice, even the wordless one of His heart, resting his ear on His chest,” the Vicar of Rome continued. Following John’s example, the faithful present—including the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri; and the Prefect, Lamberto Giannini—are invited to be “ministers of God’s mercy,” allowing the Lord “to find fulfillment in a city in which many have lost hope,” the Cardinal said. The weight of absence Cardinal Reina warned that one cannot profess the Christian faith without being concerned for those who, “because of the burdens they carry, the pain they endure, the injustices they suffer,” are unable to perceive anything other than absence. He described this absence in all its facets: the lack “of solidarity in the gap between periphery and centre; of attention to economic and existential miseries; of fraternity, whereby we resign ourselves, even in the presbytery, to remaining alone or leaving one another alone. The absence in which families fall apart, bonds grow fragile, generations clash, and addictions become chains”; the lack of “justice that does not live up to the highest vocation of politics which is to remove obstacles so that everyone may have equal opportunity to fulfil themselves, give shape to their dreams, substance to their dignity, through work and fair wages, having a home, and being defended and cared for in their fragility.” Cardinal Reina during the Mass at the Basilica of St. John Lateran. (@Vatican Media) Overcoming inertia to change the city The hearts of many, the cardinal continued, are weighed down by the deprivation “of vision and thought at a time when passions have become saddened, judgments have become sumary, information has lost contact with the search for truth, and culture no longer has credible teachers.” Not to mention “the absence of peace in a world where the logic of the strongest prevails,” he emphasized. All this lack of prophecy “renders God mute,” he said urging the faithful to oppose “every form of inertia, so that the Lord may be encountered” and Rome may be transfigured, in all its “social and existential” places. Recognizing everyone as brothers and sisters This “is the hope that moved the countless pilgrims who left on our streets the footprints of steps weighed down by the burdens pressing on their hearts” and who imprinted on the Holy Door their touch seeking God and His mercy, Cardinal Reina highlighted. He insisted that this is the teaching the Jubilee leaves to every believer: “A widespread sacrament of the closeness of the God of surprises,” because even if the Holy Door is now closed, “the Risen One passes through it and never tires of knocking, to offer and to find mercy.” After all, the Cardinal underlined, at the end of time “we will be judged by Love,” by our ability to recognize everyone as brothers and sisters, including “those we consider enemies.” The Church of Rome as a laboratory of synodality In the “new time” that now begins for the Diocese of Rome, the Cardinal Vicar invited all to unite “prayers and efforts so as to be a place that reveals the presence of the Lord, that bears witness to His closeness by becoming close to one another, without forgetting anyone.” He emphasized - quoting Pope Leo XIV’s address to the Diocese of Rome on September 19 -  that only in this way will the Church and the city be able to become a “laboratory of synodality capable of bringing the Gospel to life.” The Basilica of St. John Lateran. (@Vatican Media) Cardinal Reina thanks all those who worked for the Jubilee Before imparting the solemn final blessing, Cardinal Reina thanked all those who worked during the Jubilee Year. He recalled the closeness of the Pope and greeted Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization and organizer of the Jubilee, who was present at the Mass. He also expressed his gratitude to the civil and military authorities who worked to keep everyone safe during this Holy Year, and to the many faithful of the diocese who practiced “charity and hospitality” toward the numerous pilgrims. The Holy Door In the history of the Jubilees, the Holy Door of the Basilica of St. John Lateran —located on the right side of the portico—was the first to be opened, during the Holy Year of 1423. It was Pope Martin V - whose relics now rest in the confessio in front of the main altar - who identified the crossing of the Door as what would thereafter become the quintessential sign of the Jubilee pilgrimage: passing through the true threshold, which is Christ, to receive the gift of His grace. The current Holy Door was created by sculptor Floriano Bodini for the 2000 Jubilee. On it is depicted the Blessed Virgin with the Child, the Crucified Christ, and the coat of arms of St. John Paul II. The Mother protects the Child, who reaches toward the Cross to affirm His eternal divinity through sacrifice. The other closing rites The Holy Door of St. John Lateran was the second among those of the papal basilicas to be closed. On the afternoon of December 25, the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord, Cardinal Archpriest Rolandas Makrickas closed the Holy Door of the Basilica of St. Mary Major. On Sunday, December 28, the feast of the Holy Family, Cardinal Archpriest James Michael Harvey will preside over the celebration for the closing of the Holy Door of the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Lastly, on January 6, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, Leo XIV closed the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, thus bringing Jubilee 2025 to a close.

SALMON, Idaho — St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Salmon marked the Solemnity of Christ the King of the Universe on November 23, 2025, with the joyful installation and blessing of a new Good Shepherd stained-glass window in the priest’s sacristy. A generous gift from the parish Altar Society, the window was installed with exceptional skill by David McCampbell whose artistry and dedication brought the project to life. A Window That Teaches Through Light Stained-glass windows have long served as catechesis in light and color—beautiful St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Salmon, Idaho recently installed a Good Shepherd stained-glass window in the priest's sacristy to mark the solemnity of Christ the King of the Universe. (Courtesy photo) expressions that lift the heart and illuminate the mysteries of faith. The Good Shepherd image, central to Christian devotion, portrays Christ as the One who calls each of His sheep by name, leads them beside restful waters, and carries the lost with mercy and love. Placed in the sacristy, the window offers a contemplative presence where priests prepare for the sacred liturgy. It stands as a gentle yet powerful reminder that all pastoral ministry finds its model in Christ, the Shepherd who guides His people with tenderness and unwavering care. A Solemn Blessing on the Feast of Christ the King Following the 8:30 a.m. Mass, Fr. Adrian Leszko, Administrator of St. Charles Borromeo Parish, presided over the blessing of the new window. Gathered together, the faithful heard words that beautifully expressed the meaning of this sacred image: Christ calling each one of us by name, leading us beside restful waters, and carrying the lost upon His shoulders with mercy and love. The blessing recalled the biblical image of the shepherd David, who once guarded the flocks of his father—defending them from wolves and bears. In this ancient figure, the Church recognizes a foreshadowing of the Son of David, who now guards and guides His people, the Church He has redeemed by His own Blood. A look at the new window from outside St. Charles Borromeo Church. (Courtesy Photo) In the blessing prayer, Fr. Leszko invoked Christ the Good Shepherd to shine His truth and mercy through the colors of the window, that its light might lift hearts toward Heaven and remind all who enter the sacristy that divine grace transforms the shadows of life into peace. He prayed that clergy and faithful alike would hear in this image the Shepherd’s voice calling them by name and leading them home when they wander. A Testament to the Parish’s Faith and Devotion Parishioners expressed deep gratitude to the Altar Society for their vision and generosity, to design creator, Enrique Santos – owner of E S Glass in San Diego, California, and to David McCampbell for his expert craftsmanship framing it into the 117-year-old building. The infamous duo have worked together over the past 20 years creating and installing nine of the twelve windows that adorn St. Charles Borromeo. The newest window now stands as a lasting testament to the parish’s devotion, beautifying the sacred spaces where the Church prepares her most solemn work. In an age marked by distraction and noise, this new stained-glass image offers a quiet, enduring reminder of Christ’s constant presence. As sunlight passes through the figure of the Good Shepherd, parishioners pray that His grace will continue to illuminate the lives of all who serve and worship at St. Charles Borromeo. To God be the glory, now and forever. Father Adrian Leszko Administrator at St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church and its missions "Manete in Me et Ego in vobis" (Remain in me, and I in you)

More than 40 Catholic children bring the story of Christ’s birth to life at St. Mary’s Parish in Moscow Owen Rhoden and Ellie Flanders, both 10, played the parts of Joseph and Mary in the Nativity story. Flanders recited  the  Magnificat , Mary's hymn of praise found in Luke 1:46–55, multiple times during the evening.  (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond) By Lisa Ormond ICR North Idaho Correspondent   On a cold, dark December night in North Idaho, an outdoor living nativity, starring more than 40 Catholic children in homemade costumes and surrounded by live farm animals, came to life in all its glory before an audience of more than 200 community members.   “The participation and viewers at this year’s event was over double the amount of our first two years,” marveled Erin Clemm, event organizer and religious education coordinator at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Moscow. “What an exciting night and truly a thrill of hope for our entire community.”   Unfolding the beauty The biblical re-enactment of Jesus’ birth shone brightly on the holy grounds of St. Mary’s parish on Dec. 12. It was the only Catholic, public nativity celebration of its kind in the region. It included four main scenes, or stations, which attendees walked through, viewed and heard more from the children about the biblical story of Jesus’ birth.   “Watching the kids actively participate and showcase the nativity is a testament to their faith and love for our Lord Jesus Christ,” she said. Angel actors process toward the manger next to the church during the Nativity event. There were about a dozen angels in all involved in the re-enactment, and several had speaking parts. (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond)  This was the third year St. Mary’s Church hosted the celebration, inviting not only area Catholics but also community members to its parish grounds for a childlike presentation of wonder, peace and reverence for more than an hour.   According to Clemm, this year’s living nativity featured the youngest generation of Catholics, ages 4 to 14, showcasing the Christian story of significance about the true meaning of Christmas.   “We had many kids who wanted speaking parts and several who simply wished to silently be involved. We are truly blessed with these young, beautiful souls,” she said. Parish children proudly play their shepherd parts in the St. Mary’s Living Nativity event. Over 200 community members came to see the Biblical story re-enacted outside on Dec. 12. (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond) Young cast steps forward With excitement and eagerness, the young actors launched into their roles and delighted audiences with their costumes, talents and smiles. The cast included the main characters of Mary and Joseph, soldiers, wise men, angels, shepherds, cows, donkeys and sheep.   The story’s narrator was 11-year-old Chloe Fowler of St. Augustine’s parish. This was her third year as a participant.   “I graduated to the narrator part,” said Fowler. “I was an angel the previous two years, and I really wanted to do this, so I was excited.” Over 40 children ages 4 to 14 participated in the Dec. 12 outdoor Living Nativity event and celebration at St. Mary’s in Moscow. The joyful young actors and live animals delighted audiences with their costumes, talents, smiles and soulful re-enactment of Jesus’ birth. (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond) Ellie Flanders, 10, of St. Mary’s, volunteered for the part of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was her first year doing so. At the stable by the manger, Flanders recited the Magnificat, also known as the Song of Mary found in the Gospel of Luke, several times that night.   “I’ve wanted to do Mary for a while,” she said. “I was a little nervous the first time I read my lines. But then I realized I shouldn’t be nervous. It was all OK.”   The role of Joseph was played by Owen Rhoden, 10, of St. Augustine’s. “My mom asked me to play the part, and I said yes,” he said. There were about a dozen angels involved in the Living Nativity and several had speaking parts. (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond) Angelic choir complements Upon completing the walking nativity, people experienced pleasing, melodic sounds of classic Christmas songs performed by more than a dozen carolers at the church doors. The core group comprised St. Mary’s music ministers, but St. Mary’s pastor, the Rev. Benjamin Onyemachi, SMMM, joined their voices in praise.   “The sound was so glorious, just lifting in the air from the front steps of the church,” said Cynthia Muskat, the parish’s music ministry coordinator. “Many voices sang words of joy from their hearts.” About a half dozen live sheep and goats took part in the nativity alongside their handlers and the shepherd actors during the night. (Photo/Stephanie Montreuil) Trust leads to fruits St. Augustine parish member Amanda Fowler lives in Troy, Idaho, and three of her daughters participated in the cast, including Chloe, who served as the main narrator.   Fowler said during her childhood growing up in Nez Perce, Idaho, after Christmas Midnight Mass, all the grandchildren would gather together to act out the nativity scene. “It was a tradition I fondly remember,” Fowler recalled.   Her family’s tradition inspired her to come forward and suggest the Christmas nativity.   It was Fowler, Clemm and St. Mary’s youth ministry coordinator Jenny Morrison’s passion, vision and partnership in 2023 that united area Catholic families and children to embrace this new tradition within their faith community.   “I know I was concerned about creating the nativity celebration from nothing three years ago, but it really all came together, and here we are now,” said Morrison. (Photo/Cynthia Muskrat) The goodness and the graces At the end of the evening, cast and community members gathered in celebration in the parish hall for cookies, cocoa, craft activities and friendly fellowship.   Right away, Clemm said, the children were already looking forward in anticipation to 2026. “Immediately, after the last run of the nativity, the kids began asking me if they could do it again next year,” she said. “They were asking if they could play a different part, then they immediately wanted to share what they liked about this year—so many bright, smiling faces eager to participate again.” A moment of pause for Clemm led to immediate words of gratitude.   “Once again, it couldn’t be done without the grace of God, without his blessing,” she said. “After that, each wonderful person who offered their ‘Yes’ when asked made it possible.” St. Mary’s Music Minister Susie Johnson leads parish carolers and musicians at the Nativity event. The entire community joined their voices in singing joyfully over a dozen Christmas Classics. (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond) The 2025 Living Nativity group of animals, choir and actors which more than doubled in participation numbers over the previous two years. This was the third year for the Christmas community event and celebration. (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond) Community members gathered in the St. Mary’s parish hall afterwards for cookies, cocoa, Advent activities, and fellowship. (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond) Catholic friends, from left to right, Amanda Fowler, Erin Clemm and Jenny Morrison—have united their talents, area Catholic families, children and their passion for the Living Nativity for the past three years.  (ICR photo/Lisa Ormond)