Los Angeles Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Sir Dennis and Dame Susan De Pietro 
Voice: 323-257-4253
Cellular: 323-314-4031

Email: LA_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org

Upcoming Events:

Lenten Stations of the Cross

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Thursday, March 26, 2020, 6:00 pm
The Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem invite you, your family, and friends to walk the Stations of the Cross, gather in Lenten prayer and share a simple meal.

Click here for details.

First Monday Rosary

2020 OneLife Walk for Life

On Saturday January 18th, our Grand Prior, H.E. Sir Jose Gomez KC*HS, led 35,000 enthusiastic faithful in the 2020 OneLife LA Walk for Life. The walk started from La Placita Church to a huge gathering held at the LA State Historic Park.

Joining our Archbishop Gomez were members of the Equestrian Order and Regional Bishops including the Very Rev. Sir Marc Trudeau, KC*HS, the Very Rev. Sir Robert Barron, KC*HS, and the Very Rev. Sir Joseph Brennan,KC*HS, Bishop of Fresno. Members of the Order were represented in the walk which was coordinated by the Knights of Columbus, led by Sir Richard Marciniak, KHS, and assisted by Sir Don Keegan, KGCHS.

Throughout the march and just behind the Archbishop and Bishops, the flag of the Order was proudly carried, flanked by the flag of the Order of Malta.

Deus lo vult.

Submitted by Sir Dennis and Dame Susan De Pietro, Los Angeles Area Co-Councillors 

LA Area Members in Action at the 2019 Phoenix Annual Meeting

Several Los Angeles Area members and guests attended the 2019 Annual Meeting in Phoenix.  On Friday evening, Sir Dennis and Dame Susan De Pietro, LA Area Co-Councillors, hosted a private pre-dinner LA Reception to celebrate Route 66;  it was a lively and buzzing event.  Dames in colorful and cute Route 66 shirts made the evening pow-wow more memorable.  Members, investees (among them: Kristy Van Cleve and husband, Mark Van Cleve, Frank McKown), and guests mingled freely, exchanged pleasantries and congratulated Dame Margie Romano for her elevation to the post as Lieutenant.  Most of them met for the first time Sarah Knob, our new Executive Director.

Action photos taken during the Friday night reception and celebration memorialize the events. Among the happy and tireless attendees: Beaming Margie and Sarah, Tres Route 66 Amigas, Dennis and Susan polishing the dance floor in earnest, Incoming treasurer Sir Brad Sharp, outgoing treasurer Dame Rita Liebelt, Hon. Sir George Kalinski, Rev. Sir John Montejano and many others.

Photos taken the following day: the newly-installed Lieutenant, Dame Margie, with Sir Dennis and Dame Susan; Sir Michael Feeley, our former immediate Lieutenant with a special ”Thank You” gift presented by Dames Rita and Margie.

Submitted by Sir Dennis and Dame Susan De Pietro, Area Co-Councillors

Orange Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Orange
Dame Kristin and Sir Stephen Luchetta

Email: OC_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org

Procession of Our Lady of Zapopan in Guadalajara, Mexico, October 2019  

By Sir Doug & Dame Carol Batezel

What a blessing it was on October 12, 2019 to attend and represent the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem at the procession of Our Lady of Zapopan in Guadalajara, Mexico. Carol, my wife, and I have never witnessed, outside of Rome, the magnitude of faithful Catholics as we did for this holy event. Over two million faithful followers of Christ lined the streets, attended Mass and praised Our Lady in the form of an icon. It was truly breathtaking.

The archbishop of Guadalajara blessing the icon

Early morning assembly prior to the 8 mile procession

Our US members (from the Western, Northwest, and Southern Texas Lieutenancies, and Dame Deborah and Sir Patrick Powers) were matched by the Mexican contingency who were instantly made firm and fast friends and walked with us the whole eight miles. Tired, thirsty and hungry (offered up to God) we shared a meal afterward.

Breaking bread after the procession: Sir Patrick and Dame Deborah Powers, Dame Trudy Comeau, Lieutenant of the Toronto Lieutenancy, Dame Carol and Sir Doug Batezel, and members of the Guadalajara Lieutenancy

Carol and I also saw a new and emerging Mexico that many Americans don’t see. Up to now, our only impression was gained through border towns and cruise ship ports. I can tell everyone, that this limited exposure was only one view of Mexico and it is not the norm. They are warm, vibrant, faith people who I will call our North American brothers. If there is an opportunity for you to attend the Romeria next year, place it on your bucket list. We may be returning next year.

2019 Orange Area Summer Events

June’s Quarterly Mass and Rosary

On Saturday, June 1, 2019, 36 members of the Orange Area attended our Quarterly Mass and Rosary at the Shroud Center of Southern California located at the Santiago Retreat Center in Silverado, CA. The morning began with Mass celebrated by Msgr. Ted Olson, KCHS and the recitation of the Rosary. After the Mass, we gathered in the multi-purpose room for pastries, coffee, and social time.

Lee Sweeney, Director of the Shroud Center, presenting the history of the Shroud of Turin

After the break, we regrouped in the Divine Mercy Chapel for a special presentation on the history of the Shroud of Turin. Sir Dave Belz and Lee Sweeney, Director of the Shroud Center, led the presentation on the history and scientific evidence on the shroud. They also presented a full-size original Kodak photograph of the actual Shroud from the 1978 scientific study conducted by world renowned scientists including Barrie Schwortz.

The Shroud of Turin is the most scientifically studied artifact in all of history. The Shroud Center of Southern California has one of the most complete collections concerning the Shroud of Turin in North America.

Special thanks to Sir Terry and Dame Kathy McGaughan, Sir Dave Belz, and the Spirituality Team who organized this special event. Sir Terry also produced a special trifold of the Shroud for attendees. The members thoroughly enjoyed the presentation.

Dedication of Christ Cathedral

The Diocese of Orange, the 10th largest Catholic Diocese in the United States, dedicated the Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, on Wednesday, July 17, 2019. The architectural landmark, formerly known as Crystal Cathedral, was purchased in February 2012.

          The interior of Christ Cathedral during the dedication.

Bishop Kevin Vann anointing the altar

The Most Reverend Kevin Vann, KC*HS, Bishop of Orange, led the solemn ceremony that lasted four hours. Over 3,000 people attended the invitation-only event, including priests and representatives of the 62 parishes in Orange County.

The Western USA Lieutenancy, headed by H.E. Lieutenant Michael S. Feeley, KGCHS and Chancellor Dame Margie Romano, DGCHS, was honored to participate in the processional. Christ Cathedral is open for Mass on weekends only, while the Hazel Wright Organ undergoes tuning; the organ will be dedicated in May 2020.​

KHS members who attended the Cathedral’s dedication: Sir Terry and Dame Kathy McGaughan, Dame Sally and Sir Bill Green, Dame Janet and Lieutenant Sir Michael Feeley, Chancellor Dame Margie and Sir Tom Romano, Dame Kristin and Sir Steve Luchetta, Dame Sophia and Sir Laurin Dodd

Ordination to the Priesthood

On Saturday, July 27, 2019, the Most Reverend Kevin Vann, KC*HS, Bishop of Orange, ordained six men to the priesthood in the first Ordination, an ancient and solemn ceremony, at the newly dedicated Christ Cathedral. The Orange Area of the Western USA Lieutenancy was honored to participate in the procession.

EOHSJ members in procession

The faith and dedication of the newly ordained priests are a blessing to Orange County and to the Catholic Church. Three will start their assignments at local parishes; the other three will continue their studies at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.

Visit to Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church

On Thursday, August 1, 2019, 21 Knights, Dames, and candidates visited Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church in Santa Ana. We were welcomed by Rev. Karekin Bedourian, Pastor of Forty Martyrs and enjoyed an incredible discussion about the history of the Armenian Church throughout the centuries.

Fr. Karekin Bedourian with EOHSJ members and candidates

Rev. Sir John Monestero also contributed to the evening’s question and answer section with Fr. Bedourian. They educated the group on the similarities and differences between the Oriental Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church.   Thanks to Fr. Monestero for arranging this incredible evening.

Orange Area Day of Recollection

On Saturday, August 3, 2019 the Orange Area EOHSJ, along with the Order of Malta, hosted the Annual Day of Recollection at St. Thomas More Catholic Parish, in Irvine. Thanks to Rev. Sir John Janze, Pastor of St. Thomas More, for continuing the tradition. More than 100 Knights, Dames, and candidates attended the event. The day began with a continental breakfast and fellowship. Sir Rev. Sir John Monestero and Rev. Eric Hollas, OSB were our special guest speakers.

Order of Malta Section President Ed Godlewski and Orange Area Co-Councillors Sir Stephen and Dame Kristin Luchetta welcoming the members of both EOHSJ and Malta to the Annual Day of Recollection

Fr. Monestero gave an informative talk on Blessed Bartolo Longo, an Italian lawyer and lay member of the EOHSJ, who is up for canonization. His fascinating story begins with hardship and his ultimate turning away from his Catholic faith, only to begin studying the occult at the university. Before long he was “ordained” as a priest of Satan. The faithful prayers of his family finally broke through and Bartolo began the work of coming back to his Catholic faith, through the direction of a Dominican priest. He focused on the Rosary and the love he felt of the Blessed Mother. For more than 50 years, he preached the Rosary, founded schools, established orphanages and transformed the city of Pompeii. October 5th is his feast day.

Fr. Hollas presented a descriptive lecture on the roles of both the EOHSJ and the Order of Malta in the early Crusades. He described the life and challenges of people during the 1100s, both in Europe and the Holy Land. He detailed the roles that each Order played in the ongoing conflicts and how the roles of the Orders today follow a similar path, namely, to support the Christian presence and sites in the Holy Land.

Each year we highlight a ministry that helps support Christians in the Holy Land. This year’s ministry is Hogar Nino Dios. We shared how this special home provides a loving and safe environment for children with special needs. Thanks to the generosity of those members of both the EOHSJ and the Order of Malta, we raised over $7,900 for Hogar.

We concluded the day with the celebration of the Mass. The Most Reverend Timothy Freyer, KC*HS was the Celebrant, along with Fr. Sir Janze, Fr. Monestero, Fr. Hollas and Rev. Sir Joseph Nettekoven, concelebrating.

Bishop Freyer concelebrating the Mass with Fr. John Janze, Fr. John Monestero, Fr. Joesph Nettekoven – all member priests

Our thanks to the Orange Area members who helped with the planning of this annual event.

Submitted by Sir Stephen Luchetta, KGCHS and Dame Kristin Luchetta, DGCHS Orange Area Co-Councillors

Interfaith Visit At Saint Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church – March 2019

On Tuesday evening of March 26th, 27 members of the Orange Area gathered at Saint Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church in Irvine, California, for an interfaith visit. Fr. John Monestero, our Justice & Peace (J&P) Spiritual Leader, organized the event in line with the J&P Committee’s mission to broaden the Orange Area members’ perspective on various religious denominations.

Our host, Fr. Steve Tchichlis, Saint Paul’s pastor, graciously greeted us in the main sanctuary. He gave an informative and engaging talk on the similarities and differences between the Roman Catholic and the Greek Orthodox Churches. He also updated us on how the Christians are doing in Islamic Turkey, especially the Greek Patriarch of Constantinople (now known as Istanbul).

Fr. Steve Tchichlis leading the discussions

Fr. Steve Tchichlis then led us to a wonderful tour of the church; we learned a lot about the meaning and significance of the religious icons.

St. Paul’s Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Southern California, adorned with mosaic icons created by an artist who formerly worked in the Vatican mosaic studio before starting his own studio in Rome. This church is a treasure in our own backyard.

Special thanks to Fr. John Monestero for arranging this special and memorable event and to Fr. Steve Tchichlis, our gracious host. We had an evening of fellowship and enlightenment.

Submitted by Stephen and Kristin Luchetta, Co-Councillors of the Orange Area

Lenten Retreat 2019

On Saturday, March 9, 2019, 63 members of the Orange Area attended our Annual Lenten Retreat at St. Thomas More Church in Irvine, hosted by Fr. John Janze, pastor.

Bishop Vann concelebrating the Mass with Frs. Horan, Tran, and Janze

The morning began with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Kevin Vann, Bishop of Orange. His homily focused on the urgent call to follow the traditions of the Lenten Season concerning prayers, fasting, and alms-giving.

After the Mass, members gathered in the multi-purpose room for the spiritual retreat moderated by our keynote speaker, Fr. Quan Tran, Parochial Vicar at Christ Cathedral and Episcopal Vicar of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs for the Diocese of Orange.

Fr. Quan Tran, keynote speaker and retreat moderator

Fr. Tran discussed the meaning and purpose of Catholic traditions during Lent, from Ash Wednesday to Good Friday and through the celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection on Easter Sunday. He noted that Lent is a spiritual training that strengthens the soul. He echoed Bishop Vann’s homily on prayer, fasting and almsgiving as among the means to grace and holiness. He also explained the significance in our lives of the Paschal Mystery: the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord. Fr. Tran strongly emphasized that we should uphold the Lenten traditions out of love for God.

The retreat ended with a light lunch, fellowship, and the recitation of the prayer of the Western Lieutenancy.

Submitted by Stephen and Kristin Luchetta, Co-Councillors of the Orange Area.

Mid Year Meeting 2019

On Friday, March 1, 2019, 104 members of the Orange Area attended our Mid Year Meeting (MYM).   The evening began with a Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Newport Beach celebrated by Bishop Timothy Freyer, Auxiliary Bishop of Orange, and hosted by Msgr. Doug Cook, Pastor.

Sir Nick Wittner, KCHS, leads the procession

MYM Mass concelebrated by Bishop Freyer and Msgr. Doug Cook

Bishop Freyer’s homily focused on spirituality and opportunities for members to practice prayer, fasting and almsgiving and during the upcoming Lenten season.

After the Mass, members gathered at Santa Ana Country Club for dinner and fellowship. During the dinner program, Bishop Freyer shared his faith journey from Priest to Bishop. He also touched on the spirituality of the Order and Pope Francis’ focus on the spiritual growth of our members. His message was timely since we were entering the Lenten Season.

Our Lieutenant, H.E. Sir Michael S. Feeley, thanked the Orange Area for hosting the successful 2018 Annual Meeting in Orange County. He shared his inspiration from the Consulta in Rome last November and talked about the spiritual growth of all our members as noted by Bishop Freyer.

Happy attendees: Janet Feeley, Stephen Luchetta, Michael Feeley, Kristin Luchetta, Bishop Freyer, Patrick Powers, Debra Powers

The evening ended with H.E. Sir Patrick Powers, Knight of the Collar, Vice Governor General of Honor, leading the members in the prayer of the Western Lieutenancy.

Submitted by Stephen and Kristin Luchetta, Co-Councillors of the Orange Area

Feast of Our Lady Queen of Palestine – October 2018

On Saturday, October 27th and Sunday, October 28th, knights and dames of the Orange Area participated in the celebration of the Feast of Our Lady Queen of Palestine. Eucharistic celebrations were held in San Antonio de Padua church and Holy Family Cathedral. Rev. John Neneman, Knight Chaplin and Fr. Patrick Moses, a candidate for Investiture in 2019, graciously hosted the events.

We robed and processed before and after the Masses, gave short pulpit talks and greeted the respective parishioners. We gladly shared information about the Order and the various projects we sponsor and finance in the Holy Land.

Our Lieutenant, H. E. Sir Michael Feeley, has strongly encouraged the Order to observe and celebrate this feast. Last weekend’s events marked the fourth year in a row that we have participated in the celebration of this important feast day of our Order.

Submitted by Stephen and Kristin Luchetta, Co-Councillors, Orange Area

Holy Family Cathedral Mass with the icon of our Lady Queen of Palestine		Steve Lucheta, Kristin Lucheta, Lita Desales, Vince Salico, Barbara Salico, John Biale, Elena Biale. Diana Dudaniec, Peggy Eoff, Paul Eoff, Fr. John Neneman, pastor, San Antonio De Padua

Exaltation of the Holy Cross Feast Day Celebration, September 14, 2018

On Friday, September 14th, members of the Orange Area gathered at Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church in Placentia for an Eastern Rite Mass to observe the Feast of the Exaltation of The Holy Cross. We gathered with the Melkite Community for Mass con-celebrated by Fr. Francois Beyrouti, Pastor of Holy Cross and Fr. John Monestero, our Justice and Peace Advisor.

After Mass we processed to the courtyard area for the traditional veneration of the Cross and fire ceremony signifying St. Helena’s celebration after locating the original cross. We then joined the congregation for desserts and coffee.

This is our second visit. We plan to make this an annual event for our Area in accordance with our Justice & Peace Committee’s mission to help educate the members of our Order, along with our Lieutenant’s wishes to celebrate the Order’s Feast Days.

Submitted by Sir Stephen and Dame Kristin Luchetta, Orange Area Co-Councillors

Monthly First Monday Rosaries are held in 5 locations in the Orange Area:
1) Irvine/Tustin
2) Anaheim
3) San Clemente / Dana Point
4) Laguna Niguel / Mission Viejo
5) Newport Beach / Costa Mesa

Dear Knights and Dames and Candidates,

On August 4th, we celebrated our 20th Half Day of Recollection at St. Thomas More Church in Irvine.  Our special thanks to Fr. John Janze for graciously hosting this annual event. This was, once again, a joint effort between the EOHSJ and the Order of Malta. Thanks also to Ed Godlewski, President of the Orange Chapter, for his help and support.  We would like to share with you some of the special  moments and photos of the day.  

Over 60 members of our Order and the Order of Malta, including candidates and provisionals, enjoyed a morning of inspirational talks, prayers and fellowship. Rabbi Michael Mayersohn enlightened us on the meaning of Jerusalem in Judaism, our own Fr. John Monestero on the History of the Crusades part XVIII, and a spirit filled liturgy led by Most Reverend Timothy Freyer.  Participants also got a first hand look at our new processional icon of Our Lady of Palestine, a gift to the Orange Area from Fr. Francois Beyrouti of Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church. We were also blessed with the presence our very own seminarian Michael Althib, who is at the Latin Seminary in Beit Jala. Michael is from Southern California and has four more years of study. Please keep Michael in your prayers. 

We raised $5,025 from our collection to support the Holy Family Hospital in Bethlehem. If you were unable to attend the Half Day of Recollection and would like to donate to the Holy Family Hospital, please mail us your check.

Thanks to all the members who attended, brought goodies, contributed to collection and helped organize this event.

May Our Queen of Palestine bless you and your families,  

Tucson Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Tucson
Dame Karen and Sir William McEwen

Email: TU_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org

Helena Christine and Ann Dickson Elected to Board of Directors of the
Bethlehem University Foundation

3 August 2020

Bethlehem University Foundation is pleased to announce the April 2020 election of Helena Christine and Ann Dickson to the Board of Directors of the Bethlehem University Foundation.

As a joint venture between the De La Salle Christian Brothers and the Vatican, Directors of the Bethlehem University Foundation, once elected to the Board, must be confirmed by the Superior General of the Christian Brothers and the Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches. Helena and Ann’s election was confirmed earlier this week.

Reflecting on the election, Sister Irene O’Neill, Chair of the Board of Directors said, “The Foundation is honored to welcome Helena and Ann to the Board. They bring years of professional experience and personal support to the Foundation. The Board is very fortunate to have both women join in our ministry of supporting and promoting Bethlehem University in the Holy Land.”

Both Helena and Ann are Patrons of the Bethlehem University Foundation and are Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.

Their terms will commence in November of this year.​

Mrs. Helena Christine, Esq: Helena Christine is legal counsel at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, with a focus on economic development and institutional management. She is a member of the National Association of College and University Attorneys. Helena holds a Bachelor of Jurisprudence and Master of Jurisprudence from Oxford University. She and her husband Brian are members of the Southeastern Lieutenancy of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem and are Patrons of the Bethlehem University Foundation.

First Monday Rosary in Sierra Vista, Arizona

The Knights and Dames of the Order in Sierra Vista, AZ pray the First Monday Rosary at the same time as members in Tucson. However, as they are 70+ miles apart, they do it separately!

The Sierra Vista members recently met for social time with others, including some parishioners, who had expressed interest in the Order. They gathered in the parish rectory for the January 2020 social time, while celebrating the New Year. They hope to meet more often for social time in the future.

In this photo are Sir Thomas McCloskey, Dame Ann Dickson, Dame Maryann Hockstad, Sir Paul Angelo, Rev. Sir Greg Adolf, Rev. Sir Rob Neske, Sir Louis Gasper (Knight of the Southwestern Lieutenancy), and Fr. Amal Sebastiar, MSFS, newly assigned International Associate at St. Andre the Apostle Parish.

Children of Sir Thomas and Mary Ellen McCloskey with parishioners Ann Lund and Deacon Lauro Teran. We pray they all become Knights and Dames in due time.

Submitted by Dame Ann Dickson, DC*HS
Photos: Sir John Ratcliffe, KHS

Diocese of Tucson Lenten Retreat – February 2020

The Diocese of Tucson Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem (EOHSJ) gathered for a Lenten Retreat on February 29, 2020. The retreat was held at the beautiful Redemptorist Renewal Center where on the wall of the Our Lady of the Desert Church at the Center is a saying that paraphrases Hosea 2:14: “desert will lead you to your heart where I will speak.”  This setting provides an opportunity to reflect on the Lenten season.

Rev. Sir Martin Martinez, KHS, Pastor San Martin de Porres Parish served as the Retreat Master.

He is a proud native Tucsonan. He shared his family’s history with the city of Tucson including that his grandmother was the sacristan at Saint Augustine Cathedral in the 1920’s.

The Retreat began with Mass.  Fr. Martin was assisted by Deacon Ken; Janna Todd shared her gift of music.  In his homily Fr. Martin spoke about the Lord being present and available. The Lord uses grace to join Him and reach out to others.  Remember, that prayer makes Jesus Christ present and available.

Fr. Martin asked that everyone reflect on our graces and become instruments of God.        

Deacon Ken during Mass

EOHSJ Members after Mass

Retreat gets going

The theme of the retreat, “Life of Prayer”, is apropos for the Lenten Season.  Prayer is a mysterious encounter with God and satisfies an internal desire for God.  The beginning of Lent, Ash Wednesday, is a time when Catholics outwardly share the faith with an ashen cross on the forehead.  Lent is time to “recapture” prayer every day.  Fr. Martin offered suggestions in overcoming difficulties in finding the time to pray.  Steps to finding time include:

• When are you most receptive?
• Pray realistically, consistently and begin slowly
• Pray with inspiration using the rosary, the bible, scripture or the daily readings
• Pray inspirationally by asking what do I want or desire?
• Pray hoping to receive answers, connection, help, peace or solace
• When are you most un-interrupted?
• What time is most consistently open?
• When do you not have commitments to a spouse or family?
• When do you not have commitments to others?

Prayer requires recollection, meditation, and calmness.  Finding the time is a fundamental element of spiritual growth.  Prayer is about spending time with God.  Prayer is the foundation of spiritual life and is the time we see God in ourselves:

• Acknowledge the presence of God by making Him the focus of prayer
• Relate to God as a friend by praying what is in your heart
• Receive the response remembering that God may speak in silence, but we must learn to listen
• Respond knowing that prayer is not static saying “what is done – Amen”
• Begin with gratitude as we are continually blessed by God even if we are not aware of it.
• Petition knowing God and that God knows us
• Review where God was in my day and how did I respond
• Respond by asking for forgiveness of our failings
• Look ahead for spiritual progress

Praying everyday strengthens our relationship with the Lord and during the time of Lent, prayer can bring you closer to God.  Fr. Martin shared the four steps of prayer:

St Ignatius of Loyola offers a format of prayer in five steps known as The Examine, using the principles of Consolation (moving toward God) and Desolation (moving away from God).  The goal is to work on prayer and pray more.  The Examine is a process to improve our prayer life and make it more purposeful.

Fr. Martin made the case that praying is an important aspect of spiritual life and provided a guide to a meaningful prayer experience and how prayer can and does improve our relationship with God.  He asked that we make prayer a part of our day.

He also asked for prayers for all members of the EOHSJ.

Submitted by Sir David Ball, KCHS

Photos:  Sir Bill McEwen, KGCHS

Tucson Advent Retreat – November 2019

The EOHSJ of the Diocese of Tucson held an Advent retreat on November 9th at St. Thomas Apostle Church. Reverend Greg Adolf, KCHS, served as the retreat leader. He celebrated Mass to honor the feast day of the Dedication of St. John Lateran Basilica. The basilica was consecrated in AD 324. At every annual feast day celebration, the Catholic faithful are encouraged to keep strong ties to our past and to the universal Catholic Church.

In his homily, Father Greg spoke about the history of the basilica being rebuilt despite fires and earthquakes. While structures can be rebuilt and updated, the real beauty of any Church is in the people. People provide the living witness of the good news of Jesus and share the Catholic faith.

The theme of the retreat was a “Pilgrimage with Mary from Nazareth to the Cross.” The journey includes seven stops.

1. Nazareth – While Mary was considered of minimal importance because she was a woman, young, and poor she still spoke her unconditional yes to God’s invitation. The retreat participants reflected on the question of being baptized and cleansed from original sin, but place conditions on responding to God’s invitation.
2. Ein Karem – The visitation is where Mary, as the first evangelist, shares with Elizabeth the good news she received from the Angel. Mary is the living tabernacle. The group reflected on what occurred when these two women met and how the Holy Spirit was present in the encounter.
3. Bethlehem – The journey to Bethlehem was depicted as solitary. It was most likely, though, that Mary and Joseph shared the road with many others as they traveled to Bethlehem. Crowds and lines are a good thing in that we have the opportunity to meet and interact with fellow pilgrims. The retreat participants reflected on how the people sharing the road affect a journey.
4. The Temple – The Presentation is a multi-generational event with an infant, young parents, and aged people in attendance. While the actual time of the encounter was most likely brief, it changed the lives of each of those involved. The retreat participants reflected on when the “routine” of religion suddenly opens up new, and perhaps, unsettling realizations of God’s presence.
5. Finding Jesus in the Temple – In “losing” Jesus, the Holy Family apparently suffered from a breakdown in communication. Mary and Joseph each thought Jesus was with the other. The “loss” of a child, even temporarily, is very traumatic. The retreat participants reflected on what difference does it make that adolescence was part of Jesus’s human experience.
6. Cana – If a person is cash poor, then hospitality is the medium of exchange. Do not underestimate the power of the table. In changing the water to wine, Jesus ensures that no shame comes from a hospitality failure. Pope Pius XII stated that Mary spoke her yes to God’s plan during the wedding celebration. The retreat participants reflected on what this event teaches us about Mary’s intercession.
7. The Cross – Mary tried to protect Jesus as he was whipped, kicked, and driven like a beast. She could count every wound. Jesus and Mary both shared martyrdom. They hid no pain or sorrow from each other’s eyes. Saint Ambrose said “Mary did not stand beneath the cross waiting for her son to die; she stood beneath the cross waiting for God to redeem the world.” The retreat participants reflected on believing more in the power of the resurrection than the power of death.

Father Greg made many connections to a pilgrimage in the Holy Land. The references to scripture, personal experiences, and antidotes brought the journey “alive”. The retreat ended with the praying of the Rosary. Fr. Greg reminded everyone that praying the Rosary is not routine, just as breathing is not routine. It is an essential part of living each day.

Happy attendees. Knights (back row): Dcn Ken McNealy, Steven LeGendre, Richard Fuchs, Fr Greg Adolf, Dan Torrington, Ernie Nedder, Jim Ronstadt, Dr Don Ewing, Dr Alejandro Sanguineti, Henry Sarnoff, David Ball, and Dame Maryann Hockstad.
Dames (middle row): Margaret Kordsiemon, Iris Taylor, Ann Dickson, Kathy Nedder, Cindy Nuttall, Chris Ronstadt, Carol Ewing, Pat Brucker, Jordan Taillon, Margaret McNealy, Maria Sarnoff.
Dames (front row): Karen McEwen, Pat Torrington, Elaine Ball, Sandy Kolasa.

Submitted by Sir David Ball, KCHS

On November 14, 2019, the Most Reverend Christophe Pierre, Papal Nuncio, hosted the Bethlehem University Foundation Annual Awards Reception at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, DC. His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (EOHSJ) graced the occasion. Over 150 guests attended the event.

During the evening the Most Reverend Gerald F. Kicanas, Bishop Emeritus of Tucson, received The Archbishop Pietro Sambi “Star of Bethlehem” Award for services to the Bethlehem University Foundation (Foundation). The award, presented by Sister Irene O’Neil CSJ, Chair, Board of Directors of the Foundation and Brother Peter Bray, FSC, Vice Chancellor, Bethlehem University (BU), recognized the endowed scholarship in Bishop Kicanas’ name at the Foundation which provides perpetual tuition assistance for students at BU. The Tucson Area of the Western Lieutenancy initially established the Endowed Scholarship in 2016.

In accepting the award Bishop Kicanas expressed that Palestinian students at BU are making a big impact on their society. He said, “whatever we can do to support them in developing their talents and gifts will contribute to the realization of the world of peace and justice that God intends. During my visits at BU, I found it a vibrant place, teeming with energy and hope, even in the midst of often very difficult circumstances.”

His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien was invested as an Honorary Patron of the Foundation. The Foundation thanked Cardinal O’Brien and the Knights and Dames of the EOHSJ for their continuous support. The reception was an outstanding success, raising more than $400,000 in financial support for the work of the Foundation.

The Northwestern Lieutenancy of the EOHSJ was presented “The Pio Cardinal Laghi” Founders Award for outstanding support to BU and the Foundation for years of generous support and creation of the Sir John McGuckin Mentoring and Internship Program and the new Sir John McGuckin Endowed Fund.

The honoree with Knights and Dames and guests:

(Rear) L to R , Dame Ann S. Dickson, Honorable Sir Charles Irwin, Most Rev Sir Edward J. Weisenburger, Prior of the Tucson Area, Most Rev Sir Gerald Kicanas, honoree, Dame Karen and Sir Bill McEwen, Tucson Area Co-Councillors, Sister Dame Lois Paha OP;
(Front) Dame Ginny Clements, Dame Gracie Marum, Sister Charlotte Anne Swift OP (Executive Assistant to Bishop Kicanas for 17 years), Dame Maryann Hockstad. Photo by Bethlehem University Foundation.

Submitted by Dame Ann Dickson, LC*HS

Special Celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary

On October 7th, the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem held a special First Monday Rosary celebration with the Knights of Columbus Council 4584 at St. Andrew’s the Apostle parish in Sierra Vista, AZ. Over 100 people from the parishes of St. Andrew’s and Our Lady of the Mountain attended the celebration.

Rev. Sir Robert Neske, KHS and Rev. Sir Michael Bucciarelli, KCHS, along with the Dames and Knights led the rosary, praying for peace in the Holy Land and for the intentions of the Holy Father.

Present at the celebration was a Silver Rose, one of nine, making its way throughout North America to highlight the dignity of human life. The presentation of the Silver Rose will continue through New Mexico and Texas, before going to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico.

Click here for more information on the Silver Rose program .

Submitted by Sir Thomas McClosky, KHS

Bishop Weisenburger to Lead Holy Land Pilgrimage

Dame Ann Dickson, DC*HS Chair for the Justice & Peace Committee	Dame Victoria Ana Sanguineti, DCHS Diocese of Tucson’s Liaison for the EOHSJ Legacy Society
Dame Ann Dickson was invested in the EOHSJ in 2008 and became involved in Justice and Peace soon after. She has been on Pilgrimage or Study Trips to the Holy Land 10 times since her investiture, many of those with EOHSJ Pilgrimages. She is a retired Civil Servant having worked in Maryland, D.C., Germany, Virginia, and Arizona where she then retired after 30 years of service. Dame Ann has done graduate studies in Business Administration and Pastoral Ministry and was employed as the Director of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Sierra Vista, AZ where though now “retired,” she continues to volunteer in various ministries. She would say the Holy Land is her home away from home and a “ministry” to which she is joyfully committed!	Dame Dr. Victoria Ana Sanguineti was invested in 2014 with her husband, Sir Dr. Alejandro Sanguineti. Since her investiture, she has participated in the Order’s project to help cover the educational expenses of seminarians in the Latin Patriarchate of the Holy Land. In 2016, she had the privilege to go on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land led by Bishop Emeritus Gerald Kicanas and received her pilgrim shell. In 2016 she was named the Diocese of Tucson’s Liaison for the Order’s Legacy Society. Dame Ana recently retired from her medical career as a physician and educator at the University of Arizona. She is very active in her parish, Saints Peter and Paul, in multiple ministries – as a member of the Pastoral Council, the Finance Council, Eucharistic Minister, and Lector. She continues to enthusiastically endorse the various projects in the Holy Land sponsored by the Order.

Most Rev. Sir Edward Joseph Weisenburger, KC*HS,
Introduced as Prior for the Diocese of Tucson

Most Reverend Sir Weisenburger, KC*HS, was a member of the EOHSJ for 15 years before his appointment as Bishop of the Diocese of Tucson. As Prior, he has always included in diocesan liturgies the Knights and Dames of the Tucson Area in their robes. He was previously Bishop of the Diocese of Salina, Kansas, where he was the only EOHSJ member.

Bishop Weisenburger’s biodata (from the Tucson Diocese website).

Bishop Edward Weisenburger was born in Alton, Illinois on December 23, 1960, to Edward John Weisenburger and Asella (Walters) Weisenburger, the third of their four surviving children. His father was a military officer and his mother a homemaker. He grew up primarily in Lawton, Oklahoma, where he graduated from high school in 1979.

He attended Conception Seminary College in Missouri, graduating in 1983 with honors. He then attended the American College Seminary at the Catholic University of Louvain in Leuven, Belgium, earning the Pontifical S.T.B. in Theology, an M.A. in Religious Studies, and a Masters in Moral and Religious Sciences. In the spring of 1987, he returned to Oklahoma and began three years of ministry at St. Mary Church in Ponca City, Oklahoma.

Bishop Weisenburger was ordained to the priesthood on December 19, 1987. He attended the University of St. Paul in Ottawa, Canada from 1990-1992, earning the pontifical J.C.L. degree in canon law. Upon his return home he was appointed Vice chancellor and Adjutant Judicial Vicar. In addition to chancery and tribunal duties he did weekend parish and prison ministries from 1992 to 1995 and served as an on-site chaplain for rescue workers in the weeks following the April 19, 1995 bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City.

In the fall of 1995 Bishop Weisenburger began 17 years of service on the Council of Priests and the College of Consulters. He also served as a member of the Seminarian Board for 15 years. In June 1996 he was appointed Vicar General of the Oklahoma Archdiocese. He was an officer with the Archdiocesan Tribunal for almost 20 years and served as Promoter of Justice for the cause of canonization of Blessed Stanley Francis Rother. In October 2009 he was appointed a Prelate of Honor to His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, with the title Reverend Monsignor.

He served as pastor of two parishes: Holy Trinity in Okarche, Oklahoma (1995-2002) and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Oklahoma City (2002-2012).

In February 2012, His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Weisenburger as Bishop of Salina, Kansas. In October 2017, His Holiness, Pope Francis appointed him as Bishop of Tucson.

Bishop Weisenburger enjoys his membership in the EOHSJ and the Knights of Columbus. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Conception Seminary College and the national Catholic Rural Life organization. When time permits, he enjoys reading and occasional travel.

(Click here for a printable copy of this story.)

Submitted by Bill & Karen McEwen
Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Tucson

San Diego Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of San Diego
Dame Nancy and Sir David Schanzlin

Email: SD_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org

2020 Mid-Year Meeting

First Monday Rosary

Three Locations Santa Sophia, San Rafael, All Hallows.   7:00 PM
Bring a Friend to Pray the Rosary

Nancy and I will host the 1st Monday Rosary at All Hallows Parish in La Jolla at 6602 La Jolla Scenic Dr, La Jolla. Following the Rosary, we will have a reception in the Fireside Room.

Sir Patrick and Dame Bonni Esquibel will be organizing the 1st Monday Rosary at Santa Sophia Church in Spring Valley at 9800 San Juan St, Spring Valley. This month the Rosary will be held in the Children’s Chapel of the Church. A reception will follow in the Verhoeven Room in the parish hall. (Contact Information: Sir Patrick Esquibel pesqui96@gmail.com)

Sir Thomas and Dame Margot Kyd will organize the 1st Monday Rosary at San Rafael Parish in Rancho Bernardo at 17252 Bernardo Center Dr. The group will meet in the Chapel. After the Rosary,there will be a reception in the Church Meeting Room . (Contact information: tkyd@catholicexchange.com 619-857-1170)

We hope that everyone in the Order will participate in our monthly 1st Monday Rosary and pray for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Mother and Queen of Palestine, for the suffering Church in the Holy Land.

If you cannot attend please download this EOHSJ Rosary Booklet and pray along with us.

May God Bless you!

David & Nancy Schanzlin
Area Co-Councillors San Diego
858-456-2247 (home)
858-945-0081 (David’s cell)
619-203-2000 (Nancy’s cell)

San Bernardino Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of San Bernardino
Dame Densy Chandra   760-455-9345
Sir Gregory Chandra   909-556-1180

Email: SB_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org

28th Anniversary for Bishop Barnes’ Episcopal Ordination

Today marks the 28th Anniversary for Bishop Barnes’ Episcopal Ordination. He was installed as our Auxiliary Bishop to work with Bishop Straling in 1992. On March 12, 1996, he was installed as the second Bishop of our Diocese. We are grateful for all the years of leadership from Bishop Barnes! Happy Episcopal Anniversary!

Dear Your Excellency Sir Gerald Most Reverend Barnes,

The San Bernardino Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem wish you Happy 28th Episcopal Ordination Anniversary.

We thank you for your leadership during the good and trial times. May Our Loving Triune God always bless and protect you.

Peace,

Dame Densy R. Chandra, DGCHS
Sir Greg M. Chandra, KGCHS
San Bernardino Area Co-Councillors

Coadjutor Bishop Rojas Gets a Proper Diocesan Welcome

On February 24, 2,500 Catholic faithful gathered at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Chino Hills to welcome Coadjutor Bishop Alberto Rojas to the Diocese of San Bernardino.

Click here to read the full story in the Catholic Byte.

San Bernardino Area Members Welcome Most Reverend Alberto Rojas as Coadjutor Bishop

Dear San Bernardino Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre:

The Welcome Mass for our Coadjutor Bishop, the Most Reverend Alberto Rojas, brought so much joy for those who attended the solemn and joyful event. It brought together many of our members and guests to celebrate the historic day of our diocese.  We filled up the four pews reserved for us and our deacon couples sat with their group along with many clergy members including bishops who among other is our Grand Pryor.

We want to thank our Lieutenant, Dame Margie, and her husband Sir Tom, Sir Viktor (Chancellor), and the Co-Councillors of Los Angeles and Orange for joining us. Also, thanks to Sir Adel and Dame Doris Sayegh for bringing Arabic sweets. We are grateful for Dame Mary O’Neil who introduced us to her friend who is a Sts. Peter and Paul parishioner that took our group photos. We are still waiting for another photographer to send us some of our group photos. Last but not least, thank you to everyone who worked long hours to make the celebration successful.

Photo credits: Zaki Mustafa

Since early morning many had lined up outside the church, and soon it wrapped all the way to the rear of the campus. Everyone seemed happy under the beautiful sunny skies as Father Gino greeted people waiting in line. At the end of the Mass, the hospitality committee made sure the guests would not go home hungry and the mariachi entertained us. Such a classy hospitality to end the day.  You had to be there to soak in the joyful energy on the courtyard.

Welcome Mass for Bishop Rojas can be viewed by clicking here.

May we continue to pray for the intentions of our diocese, Bishop Barnes, Bishop Rojas, and Bishop Del Riego as a new chapter has begun. Our Lady Queen of Palestine, pray for us.

peace,

Sir Greg and Dame Densy

San Bernardino Area Members Celebrate During the 2019 Phoenix Annual Meeting

The San Bernardino Diocese Area of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (EOHSJ) joined in celebration with all the Western Lieutenancy during the annual meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona last Fall.

The meeting brought together the Western Lieutenancy Grand-Prior, Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles, our Bishop Gerald Barnes, Bishop Thomas Olmsted of the Diocese of Phoenix, Bishop Edward Weisenberger of the Diocese of Tucson, Auxiliary Bishop Timothy Freyer of Orange, Auxiliary Bishop John Dolan of San Diego, and Auxiliary Bishop Mark Trudeau of Los Angeles.

The Order welcomed the special guest speaker Sami El-Yousef, Chief Executive Officer of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem (LPJ), who spoke of the distinctive EOHSJ projects that provide for the education of 3,000 young adults at Bethlehem University, as well as 19,000 children in primary and secondary schools.

The Annual Meeting provided another unique opportunity to meet and socialize with Bishop Barnes during his Saturday night reception. The San Bernardino area welcomed Dame Lyn Hernandez, DHS, and Sir Hiram Hernandez, KHS; Dame Jennifer Rudnicki and Sir Stephen Rudnicki, KHS; Sir Robert Herness, KHS; and Sir Tim Corcoran, KHS, who were invested during the Investiture Ceremony.

Submitted by Dame Densy R. Chandra, DGCHS, Sir Greg M. Chandra, KGCHS, San Bernardino Area Co-Councillors

Bishop Barnes Celebrates 44th Anniversary of Ordination

December 20, 2019 — Today, our Bishop Gerald Barnes sets a milestone of celebrating his 44th priestly Ordination Anniversary. We have been blessed to have him as our shepherd for the last 27 years. Let us congratulate him for the special occasion and may we also continue to pray for him through the intercession of our Lady Queen of Palestine.

Peace,

Dame Densy R. Chandra, DGCHS
Sir Greg M. Chandra, KGCHS
San Bernardino Area Co-Councillors

San Bernardino Area Inaugural Quarterly Mass

Dear San Bernardino Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre, Investees, and friends:

Our Inaugural Quarterly Mass in June went well. Thank you to all who participated, including, Father Erik Esparza, KCHS, our Seminarians and our Coordinator, Dame Anne Cipta, DCHS.

Click here to see pictures and video of the event.

LENTEN DAY OF RECOLLECTION  –  2019

Dear San Bernardino Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre:

Two weeks ago, a handful of our members attended the Lenten Day of Recollection with Bishop Rutilio. The program was scheduled to end at 1:45 PM, but didn’t conclude until about 4:00 PM.

The day started with a hearty breakfast prepared by Dame Rebecca and Sir Jose. The conversations during breakfast warmed up the group. Then, we went to the Christ the Redeemer Church next door for the Sunday Mass celebrated by Bishop Rutilio, assisted by Sir Deacon Will and Deacon Jose Herrera.

Bishop Rutilio celebrated the Sunday Mass

Sir Deacon Will showed us the movie, Under Cesar’s Sword; he  brought the TV set for the viewing of the movie.  Sir Deacon Will also facilitated the Q&A after lunch prepared by Dame Muriel. The depth of the sharing around the table enriched the discussion.

Lunch and discussion of the movie, Under Cesar’s Sword

We continued the day with the Order Justice & Peace Stations of the Cross, which fit right in with the material of the day.

The day concluded with Bishop Rutilio’s eye-opening sharing of his visit to Gaza a couple of years ago. He noted that “Days like this help us to appreciate more the Order of Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre.”

The attendees suggested that we should schedule an all day program next year.

We thank Bishop Rutilio for his guidance. Thanks to the coordinators: Loretta Herrera and Deacon Jose, who also helped with the Mass.  We thank the attendees and the Orange area Co-Councillors for sharing the material with us.

This is a link to an article from the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s website that relates well with the material of our Recollection.

Wishing  everyone a blessed Holy Week.

Peace,

Dame Densy R. Chandra, DGCHS
Sir Greg M. Chandra, KGCHS
San Bernardino Area Co-Councillors

San Bernardino Area 2020 First Monday Rosary and Fasting Schedule 

NOTE: IN-PERSON MEETINGS OF MEMBERS TO PRAY THE ROSARY ARE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED

Please continue to say the Rosary at home and send your prayer intentions to your Area Co-Councillors to be shared with all.

West End:
Saint Anthony Catholic Church
2110 N. San Antonio Avenue.
Upland, CA 91784
Coordinator: Sir Raymond Nolte, KC*HS (617-852-4492)

Redlands and vicinity:
Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church
115 W. Olive Ave.
Redlands, CA 92374
Coordinators: Sir Rich Herbst, KC*HS (909-499-9940) and Dame Susie Herbst, DC*HS (909-214-1132)

Low Desert:
Date: TBA
Where: TBA

Start at 6:00 PM with prayer intentions, rosary and then a light meal.

Please call or mail me below with guest additions, prayer intentions or changes to reflect to each host.
Shannon Smith, DHS
Email:  ssmith3211@gmail.com
cell:  (917)597-0309

Roméria Virgen de Zapopan – 2018

Dear San Bernardino Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre:

Last month, a group of 35 Knights and Dames from the Western Lieutenancy joined the Vice Governor to Guadalajara to experience the Virgin of Zapopan Pilgrimage and also to give support to the local lieutenancy that is coming back. This pilgrimage is the second largest of its kind after the pilgrimage of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

The seven miles journey from the Guadalajara Cathedral where the Virgin of Zapopan stays most of the year to the Basilica of Zapopan took about five hours, and 32,000 native dancers accompanied her along with bishops and priests. This year, she was accompanied by 35 Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre from the U.S. as well as the local members. More than 2 millions people lined up the street and 500,000 faithful attended the Mass standing outside of the Basilica. 500+ priests and not less than 300 seminarians were also in the crowd. About 200 Franciscan seminarians stay at the Basilica Seminary; it is the largest number of Franciscans in the world.

The Virgin wears new mantle and accessories specially design for her every year. The crowd pays respect to her along the journey and everyone seemed to maintain orderly conduct all along the way.

To have witnessed the crowd and seen the faces of elderly folks in the crowd engraved a life time reminder of how devotion of the Virgin, the heavenly Mother lasts a life time. There’s a discussion of making this pilgrimage as an annual event. We highly recommend members to experience it, at least once. We share the Youtube documentaries below.

Short version
Long version

Peace,
Dame Densy and Sir Greg

Our Lady of Monserrat

Dear San Bernardino Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulchre:

At our recent Day of Recollection prepared well by the Kuebler and Gutierrez, we reflected and be reminded to live responsibly as Knights and a Dames of the Holy Sepulchre through the example of among other St. Ignatius of Loyola, who was also a Knight and had the privilege to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Our Spiritual Director, Father Sir Stephen Porter also shared the ten virtues of living as Knights and Dames. We hope to forward it to our members sometime in a near future.

Attending a half day of Spiritual Recollection day nourishes our longing to know Our God closer and to exercise our sanctification journey. It’s hard to write and express the Spiritual fruits received at this kind of event; it must be experienced personally.

Peace,

Densy Chandra

Our Lady of Monserrat

*This shrine and monastery were built around an image of Our Lady that didn’t want to move. Some legends claim that the statue of Our Lady of Montserrat originated in Jerusalem in the days of the early Church.*

By Ellen Mady
April 18, 2018

A Spanish soldier in his mid-20s went to the shrine of Our Lady of Montserrat after recovering from a battle injury. He spent the entire night in prayer, then laid his sword down before the image of the Blessed Mother, donned the garb of a penitent, and set out on the rest of his journey, founding a missionary order of priests and becoming a great saint who would bequeath the Church with a rich legacy of spiritual practices, including the spiritual exercises, the daily examen, and an approach to discernment of spirits.

The soldier was St. Ignatius of Loyola, one of many saints, also including St. Aloysius Gonzaga, to visit the monastery of Our Lady of Montserrat. This pilgrim site hosts an average of more than one million annual visitors who come to pray before this image of the Blessed Virgin.

Some legends claim that the statue of Our Lady of Montserrat originated in Jerusalem in the days of the early Church, and was originally called La Jerosolimitana. The earliest known written history of the statue is an inscription preserved in the monastery and dating back to 1239. According to the inscription,
“In the year 808, under the government of the Count of Barcelona, Geoffrey le Velu, three young shepherds having one night seen a great light descend from the sky, and heard melodious music in the air, informed their relations of it. The bailiff and the Bishop of Mauresa having repaired, with all these people, to the spot which they pointed out, saw likewise the light from heaven, and after some search, they discovered the image of the Blessed Virgin, which they wanted to remove to Mauresa; but, being come to the place where the monastery now stands, they could not advance any farther. This prodigy induced the Count of Barcelona to build a convent of women there, from which he took the nuns of the royal abbey of Las Puellas of Barcelona; the first abbess of Our Lady of Montserrat was his daughter Richilda, who took possession of it about the year 895. This community of nuns subsisted till 976, when the Count of Barcelona, Borrell, with the consent of the pope, placed Benedictine monks at Montserrat.” (Taken from: Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Abbé Orsini)

Based on this inscription, it is believed that, rather than the statue being brought to the monastery, the chapel and entire monastery housing Our Lady of Montserrat was actually built around the image. Due to the great number of visitors, and for the sake of preserving the statue, Our Lady of Montserrat is now behind glass, but one of her hands holding a sphere that represents the globe has been left exposed, for pilgrims to touch as they pass before her and beg her intercession.

Over time, the Virgin of Monserrat acquired a number of affectionate titles, including La Moreneta, a reference to the pigment of the statue, which has darkened over time, and the Rose of April, a title attributed to her in a hymn written in her honor. Her feast is celebrated annually on April 27.

The original shrine was expanded and elevated to a basilica in 1592. Pope Leo XIII presided over the coronation of the image in 1881 and named Our Lady of Montserrat patron saint of Catalonia.

Our Lady of Montserrat, pray for us!

Committees and Coordinators

Las Vegas Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Las Vegas
Dame Connie and Sir Joseph Micatrotto

Email: LV_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org

Hogar Nino Dios Bethlehem (Hogar) – Special Video

Sir Joe and Dame Connie Micatrotto, Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Las Vegas Area, just received a nice video from Hogar that tugs the heart. They would like to share it with the membership. The video highlights the love, care, healing and education being provided by the Sisters of the Incarnate Word and volunteers to poor, orphaned or abandoned children with serious mental and physical handicap. The children’s visit at Bethlehem’s Church of the Nativity is particularly very touching.

Joe and Connie have a fabulous relationship with Hogar and its staff and volunteers especially Mother Roncesvalles, Fr. Carlos, and Fr. Marcelo.

Please click here to view the video. 

Faith in Action Today (FIAT)
Second Development Trip

In January/February, 2020 we made a second FIAT development trip to Jerusalem and Bethlehem. The visit reaffirmed our commitment to the Order’s ministries in the Holy Land.  We visited Hogar Ninos Dios and Notre Dame Des Douleurs in Jerusalem and Antonian Charitable Society in Bethlehem. The experience was exciting, rewarding and spiritually uplifting. 

Hogar Ninos Dios – Bethlehem  

Hogar Ninos Dios is not just a building but a way of showing God’s home on earth to children with no homes and in many ways have “no life”.  The nuns, priests and volunteers lovingly and unselfishly provide the severely mentally and physically impaired children of God with more then sustenance. They also  provide reasons for the children to open their eyes each day to a life of care and love. 

The 38 children are all readied for breakfast around 8:00 AM and brought into the large room where “wake up” is official with the morning clap-clap song.  No alarm clock needed.  Many of the showered children are ready and eager for breakfast, with eyes glowing with excitement and gratefulness that reflect the love of our Lord.  After breakfast, the children are taken to a big backyard for time on the swings and where possible, even soccer.  Understandably, however, those needing 100% constant care may not want or are unwilling to join.  Always having a full day are Mother Superior Roncesvalles, Fr. Marcelo, and Fr. Carlos.  All the religious belong to the Incarnate Order. 

Joe and Connie Micatrotto joyfully joined in some of the activities. These photos capture in part the children’s typical day

Ready for breakfast	On the way to the playground
Swing time	Group photo before lunch

Notre Dame Des Douleurs – Jerusalem

This is a retirement home founded in 1957 by the French congregation of the Daughters of Our Lady of Sorrows. It welcomes and cares for Palestinian seniors in East Jerusalem.  It celebrated its 62nd anniversary in 2019.  Since its founding, poor and isolated people have been welcomed to be treated and accompanied on the human and spiritual levels and respect of their beliefs. Father Jean-Francois Claus, director of the home, said: “Our mission is to welcome all elderly persons, even if they are destitute. Our aim is to take care of them.”              

Joe and Connie Micatrotto interacting with Notre Dame residents

Connie Micatrotto saying hello to the elderly residents

Antonian Charitable Society (ACS)

Bethlehem ACS is a fabulous group of men and women under the guidance of the Franciscan Holy Land community. It provides a welcoming home as well as a social center for residents of Bethlehem and the surrounding areas. The home is operated by full time staff and volunteers, who lovingly care for, feed and interact with elderly men and women who often have no other place to turn to for assistance. During our visit, we witnessed the outpouring of love and compassion everywhere.  Nuns cook, clean and generally oversee the full time residents as well as local visitors who socially interact with residents during daytime activities.  We assisted in social games and helped the more disabled with companionship and aid in feeding and exercise.     

Joe Micatrotto with two elder residents

Connie Micatrotto feeding one of the residents

Submitted by Dame Connie and Sir Joseph Micatrotto, Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Las Vegas

Introducing Louis Salman, Beneficiary of our Adopt-A-Seminarian Program We have been blessed beyond measure with Louis Salman, whom we personally sponsored under our Adopt-A-Seminarian Program. We are honored to support him during his years at the Beit Jala seminary.

Louis hails from Amman, Jordan. He received his BS in Computer Graphics/Animation from the University of Princess Sumaya in Amman. After working in the graphics/animation industry for three years, he answered God’s call and entered the Seminary. He is now in his Pastoral Year and within 18 months of ordination to the priesthood.

For over three years Louis has shared with his adoptive American family his birth family in Amman. His mom is a homemaker. His dad is a professional Human Skills trainer in both English and Arabic. Louis has two brothers and a sister who just graduated from the University of Madaba in Jordan.

Louis is a joy in our lives and we are praying to be at his ordination in about two years. Our dream is to have him visit us and the Las Vegas Council of the EOHSJ in the near future.

Blessings in abundance,

Submitted by Dame Connie and Sir Joseph Micatrotto, Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Las Vegas

2019 Annual Retreat on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross

Greetings! We had a very successful second annual retreat on September 14th, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, at the Guardian Angel Cathedral in Las Vegas. Total attendance of 55 members and 21 investees and guests, was 33% higher than last year.

Monsignor Greg Gordon, KHS, our Knight Chaplain, led the retreat. He is also our spiritual director for the next Las Vegas pilgrimage to the Holy Land in October 2020.

Msgr. Greg Gordon leading the retreat

We started at 9:30 AM and ended with a Vigil Mass at 2:30 PM. A plenary indulgence was available to those who received the Sacrament of Reconciliation, received Holy Communion, and prayed for the intentions of the Holy Father.

Tim Glemkowsk, our special Guest Speaker from Denver, Colorado, is a phenomenal Catholic international lay teacher and founder of L’Alto Catholic Institute. He focused on family and our vision of the Order. He strongly suggested that we consider him as our annual meeting speaker.

Tim Glemkowsk, Guest Speaker

We also had our own Fr. Roy Kurian, a Trinitarian priest from India and Associate at St. Joseph, Husband of Mary Church in Las Vegas. He and Msgr. Gordon made themselves available to administer the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Blessings in abundance,

Joe Micatrotto KCHS and Connie Micatrotto DCHS

Faith in Action Today (FIAT)

Blessings to all. When we hear the word FIAT, some immediately think of our Blessed Mother Mary’s complete surrender to the Divine Plan.  Others may be car fanatics and think about the old Fiat 126 Spyder (we owned one in 1976). But, it is our prayer that in the near future, EOHSJ members in the Western Lieutenancy and hopefully the entire Order – worldwide – will consider and take into heart FIAT.

FIAT is Pilgrimage 2.0, an exciting new formatted pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It allows members to venture into depths of care, concern, and assistance. Unlike anything offered in the past, it underscores what is attributed to St. Francis of Assisi: “Preach the Gospel at ALL times and when necessary use words.”, or in the great words of St James (2:17): Faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

So, what is it and when can we go?  As envisioned, it’s a major project under the Holy Land initiative headed by three members: Dame Denise Scalzo, Dame Connie Micatrotto and Sir Joe Micatrotto. This idea germinated in our minds after a number of personal pilgrimages to the Holy Land that left us wondering: as Knights and Dames what more could we do with our own gifts and talents for our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land?

All who traveled on a pilgrimage had that feeling of both joy and a bit of emptiness. We believe there could be more -.much more – than showing up on these superb spiritual events. Thus, we conceived the idea of FIAT to create a comprehensive personal and physical interactive vehicle that will bring together common interests, concerns and dedicated actions.

Notre Dame des Douleurs (Jerusalem) Joe Micatrotto with the young residents

Notre Dame des Douleurs (Jerusalem) Connie Micatrotto with the elderly residents

In March 2019 we made the first development and planning trip specifically for this project. We visited various EOHSJ-sponsored assistance projects we could use as the genesis for FIAT. Many names are familiar, such as Hogar Ninos Dios, St Yves center, Beit Jala Seminary, while others may be newer to the fold.  The response and excitement is strong.  During our visit with Apostolic Administrator, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, one of the priests who attended the meeting stated “FIAT, as a project and cause, is spiritual dynamite!”:

The areas of concentration can grow but at this point we have five major points:

1) Economic opportunities in business and industry
2) Educational pursuits at all levels.
3) Health and safety issues/concerns
4) Social justice and legal matters
5) Spiritual solidarity and nourishment

When does it begin?   We are at the Genesis and the book of Revelation seems distant. But, with your prayers and support and If God wills it we hope to commence in late 2020. Early next year we will make another fact finding and binding trip. Our Lieutenant has given us the direction to move in a fashion that emphasizes team work and dedication of purpose. Through emails, publications, and meetings your Area Councillors will keep the membership informed and updated.  We STRONGLY encourage members to make their respective pilgrimage to the Holy Land and receive the Pilgrim Shell, as it is a must for making a FIAT.

Finally, our Lord made it very clear why He came to live among us – to teach us how to live together and love God and our Neighbors.  This project puts us next to the Lord as role models following Jesus, our savior and ultimate role model.

We have no delusions. This is not a magic wand or the only answer to retaining and increasing the Christian presence in the Holy Land.  But, we do believe that if we can provide the “few pieces of bread and fish”, our Lord will multiply these efforts beyond anything we could envision.

Blessings in God’s abundance

Joe Micatrotto KCHS
Connie Micatrotto DCHS

Click here to read the 2018 pilgrimage diary of Sir Joe and Dame Connie Micatrotto:

“44 Steppers Plus One….Holy Land pilgrimage in April 2018”

APOSTOLIC NUNCIO INSTALLS BISHOP GEORGE LEO THOMAS KC*HS AS BISHOP OF LAS VEGAS

May 15, 2018

A magnificent blessing for all, especially for the 40+ members of the EOHSJ Las Vegas (LV) Council who attended this historic and SRO event held on May 15th at the Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer in LV. Thirty two bishops, two cardinals, and Pope Francis’s representative, His Excellency Most Reverend Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the US, oversaw the installation of Bishop George Leo Thomas as the third bishop of the LV Diocese. Bishop Thomas, a member of the EOHSJ since 1994, was formerly the bishop of Helena, Montana. Sir Michael Feeley and Dame Margie Romano also attend the two-hour ceremony.

Our own Father Robert Stoeckig said in his opening of the event that ”this is what we call a FULL HOUSE in our Las Vegas Shrine.” From that moment on, the tone of celebration and spiritual joy was set. All felt the exuberance and love from our new bishop. In his fabulous homily, he shared his vision for our diocese. His powerful reflection on Pope John XXlll’s thoughts on the Second Vatican Council provided a guiding light for all.

We are blessed in LV, with a huge Roman Catholic population of over 800,000, to have all three of our bishops (including Bishop Walsh and Bishop Pepe), still with us. The LV Council is fortunate to have two bishops in our fold!

During the ceremony, we were presented to His Excellency as Area Councillors of the EOHSJ. He remarked that he is looking forward to becoming a part of our LV Council.

We had a marvelous reception across the street at the Luxor hotel with a Western-Mexican menu on the buffet circuit.

Thank you and God bless,

Joe/Connie Micatrotto KCHS/DCHS

Biography of Bishop Thomas

Bishop Thomas was born in 1950 in Anaconda, Montana. In 1972 he entered St. Thomas Seminary, in Bothell, Washington and was ordained to the priesthood in 1976.

He held various assignments in the Archdiocese of Seattle including chancellor and vicar general for 17 years. Following the death of Archbishop Murphy in 1997, he was elected administrator for the Archdiocese of Seattle until the appointment of Archbishop Alexander Brunett, who re-appointed Father Thomas as vicar general.

In November 1999, Pope John Paul II appointed him as Auxiliary Bishop of Seattle. In March 2004, he was named Bishop of the Diocese of Helena, Montana.

Bishop Thomas holds a Master’s Degree in Divinity, Master’s Degree in counseling and community mental health, and Doctor of Philosophy degree with an area of specialty in Pacific Northwest mission history.

Bishop Joseph Pepe of Las Vegas Retires

February 28, 2018
WASHINGTON—Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Bishop Joseph A. Pepe, 75, from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Las Vegas, Nevada, and has named Bishop George L. Thomas as his successor, up until now the Bishop of Helena, Montana.  Bishop Thomas, KC*HS, has been a member of the Equestrian Order since 1994.
Click here for the full story from the USCCB.

Salt Lake City Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Salt Lake City
Sir Fredrick L. and Dame Pamela C. Strasser

Email: SL_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org

Honolulu Area News

Area Co-Councillors for the Diocese of Honolulu
Dame Ann and Sir Thomas Brehm

Email: HI_Councillor@eohsjwesternusa.org