Lay Organizations and Associations
ACTS RETREATS
ACTS is an acronym for Adoration, Community, Theology and Service and is inspired by Acts 2:42-47. The retreats are open to men and women of all faiths and encourage participants to become more involved in parish ministries.CONTACT:
Brian Egan, P.O. Box 58, Belton 76513, (254) 780-2436, brian-egan@austindiocese.org, www.actsmissions.org
ANNUNCIATION MATERNITY HOME
Annunciation Maternity Home offers a new beginning to teenagers and women experiencing a crisis pregnancy. The mission statement of the Home is to live and exemplify the charism of the annunciation of Mary, depicted in the Gospel of Luke, to pregnant women and teens by teaching them they are blessed and loved by God; by showing God’s unconditional love for them by providing housing, educational and enrichment opportunities; access to medical assistance, and by teaching faith in God’s will and plan for their lives.CONTACT:
Christie Aaronson, Co-founder, 3610 Shell Rd., Georgetown 78628; (512) 864-7755; intake@thematernityhome.org
Linda Holmstrom, Administrator, (512) 864-7755; info@thematernityhome.org; www.thematernityhome.org
ASSEMBLY OF CATHOLIC PROFESSIONALS
The Assembly of Catholic Professionals is an organization of Catholics in the Diocese of Austin who are committed to the baptismal call to integrate their faith into everyday personal, business and professional decisions. Members strive to become a recognized example of the Catholic faith and support Catholic teachings and ministries through stewardship of their resources and gifts from God. The assembly meets for quarterly lunches and memberships are available.
CONTACT:
Bob Vallilee, Associate Director of Stewardship and Development, 6225 Hwy. 290 East, Austin 78723, (512) 949-2440,
bob-vallilee@austindiocese.org
AUSTIN DIOCESAN COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN
The National Council of Catholic Women acts through its affiliated organizations to support, empower and educate all Catholic women in spirituality, leadership and service. NCCW programs respond with Gospel values to the needs of the church and society in the modern world.The objectives of the ADCCW are:
1. To unite Catholic women of the Austin Diocese in purpose, direction and action in religious, educational, social and economic fields; to stimulate them to greater efficiency and usefulness in meeting the needs of the times and to render them assistance in these efforts;
2. To serve as a medium through which Catholic women of the Austin Diocese may speak and act as a unit on all matters of public interest;
3. To establish relations with other area, state, national and international groups in an endeavor to create interest in, and to aid in the solution of, present day moral, educational, social and economic problems.
CONTACTS:
Marcy Youngman, President, 1448 Seminole Trail, Dale 78616; (512) 601-1677
Judy Edwards, President-elect, 1315 Barak Lane, Bryan 77802
Ronda McClarren, Executive Secretary, 2402 Mather Dr., Killeen 76543-3118, (254) 634-9711; rondavous@earthlink.net
Council PRESIDENTS:
Austin: Gerry Jones, 13027 Scofield Farms Dr., Austin 78727; (512) 832-1411; gerry.jones@gmail.com
Brazos Valley: Kathy Court, 901 Ethel Blvd., Bryan 77802; mkc077@gmail.com
Central: Dot Absnaider, 450 Abbey Rd., Liberty Hill 78642; (512) 515-5929; aczranch@netzero.net
Eastern: Louise Hajovsky, 805 E. Manfield St., Brenham 77833;
(979) 836-7285; hajovsky@peoplepc.com
Northern: Jeanne Arensman, 501 E. Navarro, Mart 76664; (254) 876-2277
Southern: Maxine Shirley, 4009 Mather, Kyle 78640; (512) 268-5874; mshirley6@austin.rr.com
Temple: Martha Davenport, 3726 Sherwood, Temple 76502; (254) 778-5684; mreisnerd@vvm.com
Western: vacant
Clerical Endowment Fund
The Clerical Endowment Fund has been in existence since the beginning of the ADCCW. The money for this fund comes from enrollments, bequests from estates, special donations and an annual drive in each parish. A burse means that at least $8,000 has been contributed toward the fund. The purpose of the Clerical Endowment Fund is twofold: to aid in the education of seminarians for the Austin Diocese, and to provide loans to diocesan parishes for building programs.
CONTACTS:
Rev. Edward Karasek, Director/Treasurer, P.O. Box 276, West 76691, (254) 826-3705
Mary Ann Till, President, 300 Harris Hill Rd., San Marcos 78666;
(512) 353-4943; matill5@netzero.com; www.adccw.com
CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAS
The Catholic Daughters of the Americas was founded by the Knights of Columbus in 1903 for the propagation and preservation of the faith, the intensification of patriotism, the spiritual and intellectual development of Catholic womanhood and the promotion of Catholic charitable projects. Nationally elected committees govern the organization’s involvement. In 1926, Junior Catholic Daughters was formed.CONTACT:
Peggy Rosales, Second Vice State Regent, 8003 Doe Meadow Dr., Austin, TX 78749, (512) 288-2877, prosales@austin.rr.com
CATHOLIC FAMILY
FRATERNAL OF TEXAS, KJZT
(Katolicka Jednota Zen Texaskych)
The spirit of Christian love and the desire to help others in a time of need brought a group of Czech women together to establish this mutual aid society in Yoakum, in 1894.A similar group formed in Hallettsville. On Nov. 21, 1897, the two united to become the Union of Czech Catholic Women. Today there are 115 parish-based societies statewide. Its goal is to promote the spiritual and material welfare of its members and their families.
Now known as the Catholic Family Fraternal of Texas, KJZT, the organization offers insurance for the entire family. Annuities and IRAs are also available.
The organization encourages the preservation and propagation of the Catholic faith by assisting the Texas bishops, priests, sisters and seminarians. The fraternal lends money for the construction of churches, rectories, religious facilities, Catholic schools, farms and homes; and it supports charitable projects. Since 1962, the organization has offered academic scholarships to young members.
CONTACT:
Loretta Stahl, President, 4604 E. Ben White Blvd., P.O. Box 18896, Austin 78760, (512) 444-9586 or 1-888-253-2338, Fax (512) 444-6887, info@kjzt.org, www.kjzt.org
CATHOLIC PHYSICIANS’ GUILD
OF CENTRAL TEXAS
The purpose of the Catholic Physicians’ Guild of Central Texas is to uphold the magisterial teachings of Catholic faith and morality as related to the science and practice of medicine; to lead the Christian community in the work of communicating Catholic medical ethics to the medical profession and the community-at-large; to support Catholic hospitals in the application of Catholic moral principles in medical practice; to enable Catholic physicians to know one another better and to work together with deeper mutual support and understanding; and to encourage Catholic physicians to grow in holiness in their personal and professional lives. Membership is open to physicians, dentists, fellows, residents, interns and medical and dental students.
CONTACT:
Frank Mazza, MD, Guild President, c/o Seton Family of Hospitals, 1345 Philomena St., SAO, Suite 412 Austin, TX 78723, fmazza@seton.org
CATHOLIC UNION OF TEXAS, KJT
(Katolicka Jednota Texaska)
The Catholic Union of Texas, The KJT, was founded in 1889 at the dedication of a church in Bluff (now Hostyn), Texas. The founders set up a system of insurance to protect the spouses and children from financial hardship due to the death of a member. Today, Catholic Union of Texas offers membership through the purchase of life insurance, IRAs, Roth IRAs, and annuities to all Christians. Catholic Union of Texas contributes to diocesan programs, provides church loans, offers Matching Grant Funding through local societies, and provides scholarships to men and women pursuing religious vocations.
Catholic Union of Texas stresses family participation in all activities. Fraternal benefits provided to society members include home, farm, commercial, and property loans, college scholarships, Catholic school tuition grants, a Newborn Security Benefit, an annual youth camp, as well as an opportunity to volunteer time and talents for the good of one’s parish and community.
Contact:
Christopher L. Urban, President, P.O. Box 297, La Grange 78945, (979) 968-5877, www.kjtnet.org
CATHOLIC WAR VETERANS
Catholic War Veterans Post #1805 provides service to God, veterans, family, dependents and the community. This includes promoting love of God in the family and community through action, word and deed; supporting the legislative enactment of laws favoring the veteran and dependents; providing information relating to benefits and rights afforded to the family by law, and providing assistance in the areas of welfare, education and basic life necessities to the community.CONTACT:
Homero Longoria, Commander, 4522 S. 3rd St, Austin 78745,
(512) 442-5751
CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE WEEKEND
Christian Experience Weekend (CEW) is a retreat experience based on the Cursillo model for adult faith formation in the parish community. The retreats focus on four concepts: self (real and ideal), grace (the tremendous love and life that God gives each person), response to grace and sharing grace. The concept of Christian community is experienced throughout the retreat.CONTACT:
Bill Eckert, 2566 Shell Rd., Suite C, Georgetown, TX 78628, (512) 863-8240, bill@inkimages.com
CHRISTIAN FAMILY MOVEMENT
The mission of CFM is to promote Christ-centered marriage and family life; to help individuals and their families to live the faith in daily life; and to improve society through actions of love, service, education and example.CFM action groups meet monthly to talk about how they can live their Christian life daily.
CONTACT:
Deacon George Zacek, Facilitator, St. Theresa Parish, 4311 Small Drive, Austin 78731, (512) 336-3701, gedwardz@att.net
COURAGE
Courage is an international Catholic ministry to homosexual persons.The Austin chapter was formed in 1989. The group offers support through prayer, sharing and fellowship. Courage welcomes all persons who are open to celibacy or who have chosen to live a celibate lifestyle.CONTACT:
Rev. Robert Becker, St. Mary of the Visitation Parish, 205 W. Pecan St., Lockhart 78644; office: (512) 398-4649; rectory: (512) 376-3634
CURSILLO
The Cursillo Movement, which originated in Spain, began in the Austin Diocese in 1957. The Cursillo is an intensive three-day course in Christian doctrine. It is a form of renewal designed to stimulate persons to engage in apostolic action and lay ministry. Cursillo is an excellent resource for developing lay leadership in parishes.El movimiento Cursillo, que se originó en España, comenzó en la Diócesis de Austin en 1957. El Cursillo es un curso intensivo de tres días sobre la doctrina cristiana. Es una forma de renovación destinada a estimular a las personas para que se dediquen a la acción apostólica y al ministerio laico. El Cursillo es un recurso excelente para desarrollar liderazgo laico en las parroquias.
CONTACTS:
Our Lady of Guadalupe Cursillo Center, Jarrell, (512) 746-2041
Juan Gonzalez, Center Director, 1206 Paseo De Oro, Temple 76502, (254) 295-6997
Cursillo-Spanish, Silvia Villarreal, president, 119 N. Burnet, Belton 76513 (254) 541-456
Cursillo-English — P.O. Box 142486, Austin 78714-2486; Adolfo
Alvarez, president, (512) 784-7964, wu_doc1@hotmail.com
DIOCESAN FINE ARTS COUNCIL
The Fine Arts Council’s mission is to act as a catalyst and lead a renaissance in visual religious fine art with an emphasis on the Judeo-Christian tradition. The Council maintains a directory and photo gallery on the diocesan website of artists who create religious art. Art by members of the council is displayed in the Sacred Art Gallery at the diocesan Pastoral Center in Austin. The exhibit is free and open to the public during normal business hours.CONTACT:
Mark Landers, Chair, 500 W. St. Elmo Rd., Austin 78745, (512) 472-9663, mark@landersstudio.com, www.austindfac.org
DOMINICAN MISSIONARY
PREACHING TEAM
The Dominican Missionary Preaching Team, a community of religious men and women, has as its primary purpose evangelization and the formation of Basic Ecclesial Communities within parish structures in both Spanish and English. The team responds to invitations from parishes wanting to form a network of small faith communities through an evangelization process.The team also has additional ministries of evangelization: retreats, parish missions, inner healing seminars, evangelization training courses and pastoral consultation for parishes and dioceses. The Dominicans are also available for personal prayer and spiritual direction.
El equipo de Predicación Misionera Dominica, una comunidad de hombres y mujeres religiosos, tiene como propósito principal la evangelización y la formación de Comunidades Eclesiasticas Básicas dentro de la estructura de la parroquia tanto en español como en inglés. El equipo acepta invitaciones de parroquias que quieren formar una red de comunidades de fe por medio de un proceso de evangelización.
El equipo también tiene ministerios adicionales de evangelización: retiros, misiones en las parroquias, seminarios de sanación interior, cursos de entrenamiento sobre la evangelización y consultas pastorales para parroquias y diócesis. Los dominicos también están disponibles para oración personal y orientación espiritual.
CONTACT:
Dominican Missionary Preaching Team, 6008 Club Terrace, Austin 78741, (512) 385-1719, ralphrog@juno.com
EQUESTRIAN ORDER OF THE HOLY SEPULCHRE OF JERUSALEM
The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem is a worldwide papal order of Knights and Ladies, established by Pope Paschal II in 1113, making this the oldest papal order in the world. EOHSJ members in the Austin Diocese are part of the Southwest Lieutenancy, which includes dioceses from Texas, New Mexico, Arkansas and Oklahoma. The fundamental purpose of the order is to support and preserve the Christian church in the Holy Land, offering spiritual, moral and material support to the Christians who live there.CONTACT:
Evelyn McNair, Representative, (512) 345-7329, evelyn.mcnair@st-louis.org
FOCOLARE MOVEMENT
(Work of Mary)
Founded in 1943 in Trent, Italy, by Chiara Lubich, the Focolare has become a vast ecclesial movement present in more than 180 nations. Its spirituality of communion is based on Jesus’ prayer for unity, “Father, may they all be one” (Jn 17:21). Focolare fosters universal brotherhood in all areas of ecclesiastical and secular life, including family, youth, politics, economics and more.
CONTACTS:
Focolare Movement, P.O Box 15726, San Antonio 78212, (210) 341-8445; www.focolare.org
Deacon Paul Lavallee, (512) 589-0245
Judy Henschen, (512) 942-9557, southwest@focolare.us
GABRIEL PROJECT
The Gabriel Project is a ministry of the diocesan Office of Pro-Life Activities and Chaste Living. The Gabriel Project is a parish response and the Good Samaritan approach to helping pregnant women in need.CONTACTS:
(512) 238-1246 or 1-877-We-Care-2
Rebecca Niemerg, Associate Director: Pastoral Care, rebecca-niemerg@austindiocese.org; (512) 949-2488
GABRIEL PROJECT LIFE CENTERS
The Gabriel Project Life Centers are a ministry of the Catholic Charities of Central Texas. The Gabriel Project Life Centers offer free pregnancy tests, pregnancy and parenting classes and emotional, material and spiritual support to mothers and fathers of unborn children and children up to one year of age.CONTACTS:
Allison Skinner, Director of Social Services: Gabriel Project Life Centers, allison-skinner@austindiocese.org; (512) 651-6104
Austin Gabriel Project Life Center, Yajaira Lara, Case Manager; 1817 E. Sixth St., Austin 78702; (512) 236-0144; fax (512) 651-6101; yajaira-lara@austindiocese.org
Good Samaritan Gabriel Project Life Center, Denise Ramos, Coordinator; 1314 E. 29th St., Bryan 77802, (979) 822-9340; fax (979) 822-6754; denise-ramos@austindiocese.org
JORNADA JUVENIL
Jornada Juvenil de Cristiandad is a diocesan movement that serves the spiritual and personal development of Spanish-speaking young adults through an intense single-gender weekend at the Cursillo Center in Jarrell. There is also a weekly meeting and other activities. This form of renewal is designed to encourage Hispanic young adults to participate actively in their own parish and to live their faith actively. This ministry is in Spanish only.Jornada Juvenil de Cristiandad es un movimiento diocesano que contribuye al desarrollo espiritual y personal de los jovenes adultos de habla hispana. El mismo consiste de un intenso retiro de fin de semana para personas de un solo sexo en el centro de Cursillo en Jarrell. Existen también reuniones semanales y otras actividades. La experiencia está diseñada para estimular a los jovenes hispanos a fin de que participen activamente en sus propias parroquias y vivan su fe más intensamente. Este ministerio se realizará en español.
CONTACTS/CONTACTAR AS:
Isabel Gutierrez, coordinadora, (512) 363-6209
Arturo Martinez, coordinador, (512) 716-9059
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS
The Knights of Columbus was founded by Father Michael J. McGivney and chartered on March 29, 1882, in the state of Connecticut. The purpose of the organization was to help Catholic men remain steadfast in their faith through mutual encouragement, to promote closer ties of fraternity among them and to set up an elementary system of insurance so that the widows and children of members who die would not find themselves in dire financial straits. The name was chosen because it related to Christopher Columbus, the Catholic discoverer of America and because it would signify that the membership embodied knightly ideals of spirituality and service to church, country and fellowman.Today, the Knights of Columbus is an international society with membership in Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, Poland and others, numbering more than 1.7 million Catholic men, plus their families. There are about 13,000 councils that have dedicated themselves to the ideals of Columbianism: charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.
CONTACT:
Tommy Atkins, Diocesan Deputy, Austin Diocese North, 1849 Rambler Dr., Waco 76710, (254) 776-5690, tommy_atkins@sbcglobal.net
Bill Harris, Diocesan Deputy, Austin Diocese South (including the Austin metro area), (512) 282-6023, blharris621@juno.com
Websites: www.kofc.org (national) and www.tkofc.org (Texas)
KNIGHTS OF PETER CLAVER
AND LADIES’ AUXILIARY
The Knights of Peter Claver were founded Nov. 7, 1909, in Mobile, Ala., by four priests of the St. Joseph’s Society of the Sacred Heart — the Josephite Fathers John Dorsey, Samuel Kelly, Conrad Rebesher and Joseph Van Baast — and three lay men of the Diocese of Mobile-Birmingham, Ala. — Frank Collins, Gilbert Faustina and Frank Trenier. The Meritorious Fourth Degree Knights of Peter Claver was established in 1917 and the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies’ Auxiliary was established in 1922. The Order also has two junior divisions for ages 7 through 18, the Junior Knights and Junior Daughters. The Knights of Peter Claver Ladies of Grace was established in 1979. The Order has councils and courts in 38 states in 45 dioceses and archdioceses.The Order was named for St. Peter Claver (1580-1654), a Jesuit priest from Spain. Father Claver dedicated his life to ministry among Africans brought to Colombia, South America, to be slaves. He chose the title “Slave of the Negroes Forever.” It is estimated that by the time of his death more than 300,000 African slaves were brought to Christianity.
The Order was chartered in the Austin Diocese in 1986 at Holy Cross Parish in Austin. All six divisions of the Order now exist at the parish. The objectives of the Order are to serve God and his church, church hierarchy and clergy in their apostolic work and to promote Catholic action wherever possible. Knights and Ladies of Peter Claver perform works of mercy and charity and promote, sponsor and plan activities to support scholarships and community uplift.
CONTACTS:
Gene A. Phillips Sr., Grand Knight, 6511 St. Stephens Dr., Austin 78746, (512) 306-8237, gapmap@aol.com
Linda Ridley, Grand Lady, PO Box 12576, Austin 78711, (512) 964-5326, lrid2000@yahoo.com
LADIES OF CHARITY
St. Vincent de Paul founded the Ladies of Charity in the 17th century. It is a charitable organization of laywomen intended to provide for the spiritual and corporal welfare of the poor and the needy of the community.
The Ladies of Charity of Austin, founded in 1890, volunteer at the local soup kitchen, visit nursing homes, the state hospital and state school. They operate one thrift store, which provides clothing and emergency assistance for needy families and the homeless, on a profit-sharing basis with the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
The Ladies of Charity of Bastrop, organized in 1983, provide emergency assistance to the needy and scholarships and other assistance to students, visit nursing homes and shut-ins, and participate in other assistance programs in the community, including Meals on Wheels. They operate an independent thrift store.
The Harker Heights Ladies of Charity, organized in 1996, operate an independent thrift store, provide emergency assistance to the needy and help support established charity organizations in the community with their profits. The Ladies of Charity also visit the elderly and sick in local nursing homes.
The Ladies of Charity of Lake Travis, organized in 1991, fund charitable ministries and provide emergency assistance to those in need in their community. They operate the Lake Travis Thrift Shop.
The Waco Ladies of Charity, organized in 1895, provide assistance to the needy through grants to numerous local and diocesan organizations. Their nursing home ministry serves a number of area nursing homes. The Veterans Administration Medical Center ministry provides many services for patients in that facility. The Maternity Ministry provides bassinets and layettes for babies in need, personal gifts for mothers who have lost their baby or offered it for adoption and special blankets for babies who do not survive. A prison ministry provides mentoring for inmates of an area prison. They operate a resale store on a profit-sharing basis with Caritas of Waco.
CONTACTS:
Austin: Monique Moya Urtado, P.O. Box 9566, Austin 78766,
(512) 507-0068, mmoya@aol.com
Bastrop: Putzie Martin, President, 203 Overhill Rd., Bastrop 78602, (512) 734-3855, Fax (512) 321-1647, locbastrop@aol.com
Harker Heights: Sylvia Schnapp, President, 714 Bobcat Cr., Harker Heights 76548, (254) 698-2990
Lake Travis: Cindy Balfour, President, P.O. Box 340026, Austin 78764, (512) 261-8500, Fax (512) 261-8200
Waco: Betty Oxley, President, 24 Sugar Creek Place, Waco 76712, (254) 772-1637
MARY HOUSE CATHOLIC WORKER
OF AUSTIN, INC.
Mary House Catholic Worker of Austin, Inc. is a community of hospitality in the tradition of Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin, who founded the Catholic Worker movement in 1933. House guests include single adult men and women who are indigent and homeless and who are critically ill or dying. However, Mary House is not a nursing home facility. The house welcomes street people, immigrants and displaced people regardless of their adult age, ethnicity, orientation or citizenship. About one-third of the house guests are formerly middle class people whose serious illnesses lasted longer than their benefits and resources. Homeless hospice guests also are welcome.Mary House offers those who would like to perform works of mercy the opportunity to do so. The mission of Mary House Catholic Worker is to serve the poorest brothers and sisters through the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, and to give people of faith the opportunity to “feed the hungry, clothe the naked, welcome the stranger, comfort the sick and visit the prisoner” (Matthew 25).
CONTACT:
Lynn Goodman-Strauss, P.O. Box 684185, Austin 78768-4185 , (512) 447-0963, theegglady@sbcglobal.net
MERCY OF GOD PRAYER CENTER
The Mercy of God Prayer Center is one of 12 centers within the Society of Our Lady of Guadalupe, International, dedicated to Catholic evangelization and healing prayer ministries. English-speaking and Spanish-speaking centers share the same facilities in a newly built center located in Manor.Ministries include inner healing prayer (by appointment), a school for spiritual growth and inner healing founded on Ignatian exercises (offered in English, Spanish and Braille), spiritual direction, and days of reflection and healing. The facilities are available for the use of parishes and small groups. The bilingual Hispanic ministry focuses on evangelization, family ministry and outreach to the poor and needy.
El Centro de Oración de la Misericordia de Dios es uno de los 12 centros internacionales que forman la Sociedad de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, dedicada a la evangelización Católica y ministerios de oración y sanación . El Centro cuenta con dos centros en si mismo, uno para las personas que hablan Inglés y otro para las personas que hablan Español pero comparten las mismas instalaciones en un centro recientemente construído situado en la localidad de Manor TX.
Los Ministerios que ofrecen incluyen oración de sanación interior (con cita previa), una Escuela de Crecimiento Espiritual y Sanación Interior basada en los ejercicios espirituales ignacianos (es ofrecida en Inglés, Español y en Braille), se ofrece también dirección espiritual, y Días de reflexión y sanación. Las instalaciones están disponibles para el uso de parroquias y grupos pequeños. El ministerio Hispano bilingüe se centra en la evangelización, la pastoral familiar y la ayuda a los pobres y necesitados.
CONTACT:
Mercy of God Prayer Center, Physical Address: 8701 Burleson-Manor Rd., Manor 78653; Mailing Address: 6607 Wild Oaks, Austin 78759; (512) 834-6401, www.mogpc.org
En Espanol: Centro Oracion Misericordia de Dios, (512) 272-6115
MOVIMIENTO FAMILIAR CRISTIANO– USA
Movimiento Familiar Cristiano (MFC) is a Spanish ministry that consists of more than 500 families in the Austin Diocese who promote Christian and family values. Their ministries include personal and spiritual formation, education in the faith, marriage retreats, marriage preparation programs, reconciliation and family building.Movimiento Familiar Cristiano (MFC), es un ministerio hispano que está formado por más de 500 familias de la Diócesis de Austin, el cual promueve los valores cristianos y de la familia. Sus ministerios incluyen la formación espiritual y personal, educación en la fe, encuentros conyugales, programas de preparación matrimonial, edificación de la familia y reconciliación.
CONTACT:
Andrés y Carmen Villalón, Matrimonio Delegados Regional,
2105 Bindon Dr., Cedar Park 78613, (512) 837-5609,
andresraymundo@hotmail.com
NAZARETH HOUSE
Nazareth House, Inc., is a center for Catholic evangelization and spiritual development located in the heart of the Temple Deanery. As a school affiliated with the worldwide “Evangelization 2000” effort, its task is to promote the New Evangelization of the Third Millennium. Nazareth House exists to assist people on their journey of faith, to awaken a vibrant Catholic spirituality and to draw people into a life of prayer that prepares them to fulfill the church’s mission to evangelize.Groups and families are assisted in their spiritual growth through events such as prayer groups, spiritual enrichment groups, family Advent and Lenten groups, monthly days of prayer, pilgrimages, retreats, parenting classes and seminars. Magnificat Center houses the ministry, which includes a Christian bookstore, lending library, office and retreat space. The Chapel of the Incarnation, adjoining Magnificat Center, is a 24-hour, perpetual eucharistic adoration chapel, which is open to all.
CONTACT:
Patti Snyder, Director, or Fran Madler, Administrator, 1103 S. 9th St., Temple 76504, (254) 773-8381; Magnificat Center Bookstore (254) 770-3070, www.nazarethhouse.net.
OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS
MATERNITY SHELTER
Our Lady of the Angels Maternity Shelter provides shelter to women in crisis pregnancy by offering a loving and stable family environment to support the mother and child in their efforts to create a hopeful future for themselves. The shelter offers a place where women may receive services with dignity and respect, giving them a respite from homelessness and opportunities to become self-sufficient. The residence is staffed by the Sisters of Sacred Sciences and has a licensed counselor to develop a service plan for every resident based on their needs.
CONTACTS:
JoLeta Tidmore, administrator, 613 S. 9th St., Temple 76504, (254) 742-2340 or 866-389-2340, Fax (254) 742-1050, olams@att.net
PAX CHRISTI - AUSTIN
Pax Christi-Austin strives to be a prophetic Catholic voice of peacemakers in the Central Texas church. It is dedicated to the following goals: to foster a spirituality of nonviolence and peacemaking; to work for disarmament, demilitarization, reconciliation and justice; to effect economic and interracial justice in the U.S. and to support human rights and global restoration.CONTACT:
Bob Rankin, convener, P.O. Box 92915, Austin, TX 78709,
(512) 413-3440, bob_rankin@att.net
PROJECT RACHEL
Project Rachel is a ministry of the diocesan Office of Pro-Life Activities and Chaste Living that helps women and men who suffer emotionally and spiritually because of an abortion. Clergy, spiritual directors, and counselors are available to work with post-abortive women and men. Project Rachel retreats are offered on weekends and are held at confidential locations. Help through a support group is also available.CONTACT:
Helpline: (512) 238-1246 or 1-877-We-Care-2
Rebecca Niemerg, Associate Director: Pastoral Care, rebecca-niemerg@austindiocese.org; (512) 949-2488
Pro-Life Helpline
The Pro-Life Helpline is a ministry of the diocesan Office of Pro-Life Activities and Chaste Living and is available for women and men to confidentially access assistance through the Gabriel Project, Project Rachel and the Gabriel Project Life Centers. It is answered by trained volunteers.
CONTACT:
Helpline: (512) 238-1246 or 1-877-We-Care-2
Rebecca Niemerg, Associate Director: Pastoral Care, rebecca-niemerg@austindiocese.org; (512) 949-2488
RELEVANT RADIO 970 AM AUSTIN
Relevant Radio is the largest Catholic talk radio network in the U.S. Although 970 AM went on the air in central Texas in January 2006, Relevant Radio is celebrating its ninth anniversary across the nation. Relevant Radio currently broadcasts across 33 stations. Relevant Radio is able to reach more than 20 million people through on-air and Internet broadcast at www.relevantradio970.com.Relevant Radio 970 AM is a Catholic lay apostolate acting in communion with the Catholic Church. Relevant Radio 970 AM provides programming that gives people a greater understanding of their faith and helps them find answers to many of life’s challenges.
CONTACTS:
Ted Wrenn, General Manager, 11615 Angus Rd., Suite 102, Austin 78759, (512) 390-5495, fax (512) 241-0510, twrenn@relevantradio.com
Linda Delmas, Account Executive, ldelmas@relevantradio.com, (512) 797-6783
Fatima Maciazek, Account Executive, fmaciazek@relevantradio.com, (512) 663-8392
RETROUVAILLE
The members of Retrouvaille International are united in the belief that the sacrament of marriage deserves an opportunity. Members believe that the presence of God can make a difference in any marriage and that a reconciled marriage is preferable to divorce.CONTACTS:
Jaime and Diana Castelan, Area Coordinators, (512) 402-8056, jaime.castelan@gmail.com, Diana.I.Castelan@gmail.com;
www.helpourmarriage.com
ST. LOUISE HOUSE OF AUSTIN
The mission of St. Louise House is to empower women and children experiencing homelessness. St. Louise House provides long-term housing and supportive services for homeless women and children. In addition, it operates a satellite program, The Outreach to Street Youth Program, which serves homeless street youth between the ages of 12 and 22 in collaboration with university-area churches in Austin.CONTACT:
Sharon Bieser, Executive Director, 2026 Guadalupe St., Austin 78705, (512) 302-0027, bieser@saintlouisehouse.org, www.saintlouisehouse.org
ST. MARTIN de PORRES CHAPTER, DOMINICAN LAITY
Dominican laity are Catholic men and women, single and married, who have received a call to living a deeper spirituality in the service to God. The origins go back to the founding of the Order of Preachers by St. Dominic in 1216. The four essentials of the Dominican family are prayer, study, community and preaching.The St. Martin de Porres Chapter, Austin, is made up of three groups that meet at least once a month for prayer and study of the Dominican way of life. All members are involved in a variety of ministries of the Word.
Los laicos dominicos son hombres y mujeres católicos, solteros y casados que han recibido un llamado a vivir una espiritualidad más profunda al servicio a Dios. Sus orígenes se remontan a la fundación de la Orden de Predicadores de Santo Domingo en 1216. Las cuatro características esenciales de la familia dominica son la oración, el estudio, la comunidad y la predicación.
La seccional de San. Martín de Porres, de Austin, está formada por tres grupos que se reúnen por lo menos una vez al mes para rezar y estudiar el estilo de vida dominico. Todos los miembros participan en una variedad de ministerios de la Palabra.
CONTACT:
Dominican Missionary Preaching Team, 6008 Club Terrace, Austin 78741, (512) 385-1719, ralphrog@juno.com
SCHOENSTATT MOVEMENT
OF AUSTIN
Schoenstatt is a Catholic Movement founded by Father Joseph Kentenich in 1914. The Schoenstatt Shrine has become the source of spiritual life and apostolic commitment. Through a Covenant of Love with our Blessed Mother in Schoenstatt, people receive a renewed strength in their faith and a means of bringing the love of Christ to the world. Schoenstatt of Austin is part of the International Schoenstatt Movement, which is present in over 90 countries. Branches of the movement include families, mothers, youth and university students and the rosary campaign.
CONTACT:
Schoenstatt Center in Austin, 225 Addie Roy Rd., Austin 78746-4124, (512) 330-0602, www.schoenstatt.us
Lizette and David Anglin, Family Branch Coordinators,
danglin@austin.rr.com
Rev. Christian Christensen, ISP, Adult Branches Moderator, (512) 301-8762, pchri02@sbcglobal.net
Rev. Jesus Ferras, ISP, Director, (512) 301-8762, jferras@schoenstatt.us
SECULAR FRANCISCAN ORDER
The Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) was founded by St. Francis of Assisi in the early 1200s. The SFO, known until the mid 1970s as the Third Order of St. Francis, is comprised of single or married lay people and diocesan clergy who come together in regular meetings as fraternity for apostolic works and to share spiritual journeys, going from Gospel to life and life to Gospel in the spirit of St. Francis. Members profess to live a way of life embodied in a Rule, approved by the Catholic Church. The local fraternities, Sacred Heart of Austin and St. Padre Pio fraternity of Georgetown, invite all who have found themselves drawn by the Gospel living of St. Francis of Assisi to join.CONTACT:
Brad Toups, Sacred Heart Fraternity, P.O. Box 143092, Austin 78714-3092, (512) 365-3575, SacredHeartSFO@gmail.com
Carlos Medina, St. Padre Pio Fraternity, P.O. Box 1593, Georgetown 78627, (512) 868-8448, stpadrepiosfo@gmail.com
SECULAR ORDER OF DISCALCED CARMELITES
The members of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS) are faithful members of the church called to live in “allegiance to Jesus Christ” through “friendship with the one we know loves us” and in service to the church. Under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, in the biblical tradition of the prophet Elijah and inspired by the teachings of St. Teresa of Jesus and St. John of the Cross, they seek to deepen their Christian commitment received in baptism” (Constitutions of the OCDS).Secular members (single or married) under the direction of the Oklahoma Province of Discalced Carmelite friars are called upon to carry into the world the witness, message and example of their Carmelite parents and saints: St. Teresa of Jesus, St. John of the Cross, St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Benedicta of the Cross.
CONTACT:
JoAnn Murphy, President, 12513 Rush Creek Ln., Austin 78732, (512) 828-6464, jmurphy12513@austin.rr.com
SERRA INTERNATIONAL
Serra International is an organization devoted to fostering vocations to the priesthood and religious life.The first Serra Club was founded in Seattle in 1954, and by 1991 there were more than 500 clubs worldwide - with 27 in Texas.
Serra Clubs in the diocese are lay men and women who have regular meetings in support of seminarians, priests and other religious by prayer, topical presentations and financial contributions to diocesan vocation programs. The clubs actively participate in and support parish vocation committees.
CONTACT:
Gilbert J. Bernal, Jr. Serra Club of Austin President, 7320 N. MoPac, Suite 211, Austin, TX 78731, (512) 335-9422, gbernal@sbaustinlaw.com
C. David Broecker, Serra Club of Central Texas President, 1417 Elizabeth Cir., Salado 76571, (254) 247-1776, cbroecker@vvm.com
SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a Catholic lay organization that leads women and men to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to those in need. The Society’s network of charity in the Diocese of Austin includes over 1000 members in nearly 40 parishes. The Society’s members, called Vincentians, often visit community members in their homes and listen to their difficult and heart-breaking struggles. Through the generosity of the black bag collections in the parishes, the Society is able to provide financial assistance (rent, utilities, food, etc.) supplemented with in-kind services, referrals, and most importantly, prayer. Vincentian spirituality is rooted in the fact that members encounter the face of Christ in every individual they visit, and in turn, they share Christ’s love with everyone they serve.CONTACT:
Christy Hall Schneider, Executive Director, P.O. Box 9070, Austin 78766, (512) 251-6995, Fax (512) 252-1117, svdpaustincouncil@sbcglobal.net, www.ssvdp.org
St. Vincent de Paul Stores:
1327 S. Congress Ave., Austin 78704, (512) 442-5652 (with the Ladies of Charity)
818 W. Yager Ln., Austin 78753, (512) 238-6737 (Collection center ONLY)
300 N. Main St., Bryan 77803, (979) 775-CARE
St. Vincent de Paul Vehicle Donation Program: (512) 912-7575 or 1-888-317-SVDP (7837)
THERESIANS
Theresians provide a prayerful environment where women are nurtured, affirmed and challenged to reach their full potential. Called to Gospel holiness, members grow in their faith vision by living according to five dimensions: spirituality, education, community, vocation and ministry.CONTACT:
Jan Gessler, (512) 658-5436; www.theresians.org
WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE
ENCOUNTER
A Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend is a positive, renewing experience for couples that have a good marriage, but want to make it even better. It is a unique approach aimed at revitalizing Christian marriage, whether couples have been married only a short time or for many years. At these Marriage Encounters, a team of Catholic couples and a Catholic priest give a series of presentations. Couples then have the opportunity to deepen and enrich their relationships with each other, with God, with the church, and with the world through private, personal discussion. Priests and religious are also invited to enrich their relationship with the people of God by attending a weekend.Worldwide Marriage Encounter regularly presents weekend-long retreats at Cedarbrake Catholic Retreat Center in Belton and at local area hotels and parishes by special arrangement. Weekends are also presented in Spanish.
El fin de semana del Encuentro Matrimonial Mundial es una experiencia positiva y renovadora para las parejas que tienen un buen matrimonio pero que desean mejorar su relación. Este encuentro tiene el objetivo fundamental de revitalizar el matrimonio cristiano, ya sea para aquellas parejas que recientemente se casaron, o bien, aquellas que llevan varios años de vida matrimonial. En estos encuentros matrimoniales, el equipo de parejas católicas y el sacerdote católico realizan una serie de presentaciones. Los matrimonios tienen entonces la rara oportunidad de profundizar y enriquecer sus relaciones entre si, con Dios, con la Iglesia y con el mundo a través de pláticas personales y privadas. Los sacerdotes y religiosos están también invitados a enriquecer su relación con el pueblo de Dios acudiendo al fin de semana.
El Encuentro Matrimonial Mundial regularmente presenta retiros a lo largo de todo un fin de semana en el Centro de Retiro Católico de Cedarbrake y en hoteles y parroquias locales a través de un acuerdo especial. Los fines de semana en el área de Austin son también presentados en español.
CONTACTS:
Kenny & Anne Roberts, 2801 Zambia Dr. Cedar Park, TX 78613, (512) 522-8409, kenny.roberts@me.com, www.austinme.org, www.wwme.org
Ruben and Elvira Galvan, (Español), 12813 Sexson Ridge Cove, Austin 78604, (512) 247-7604, galvan.r@hotmail.com