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  Pentecost, A. D. 2020

  
  

  (Please share with all your people! Por favor compartir con toda su gente!)

  
  

  
  

  Peace and greetings to you all throughout our worldwide Church Communion, on this Holy Feast of Pentecost as we celebrate the Coming and the Works of the Holy Spirit, the Birthday of the Christian Church!

  
  

      Thinking of you all in our different churches across the world, I am always touched by your love and service for all of God's people, and with whom we walk united toward the heavenly Kingdom.

  
  

      Through my personal contacts with our Nuncios, and the many of you who write me personally, we are connected through a sacred bond that the Holy Spirit bestows on us, the Love of God that emanates for us without cessation. It is exactly this divine presence of the Holy Spirit among us that keeps building our Church, and we see more and more people come to us seeking a place of a loving and accepting community where one can also find healing.    

  
  

      Today's Feast of the Holy Spirit reminds us of that divine power that we can experience in our lives, the gifts that he/she shows each one of us according to our needs and abilities. 

      Let us all reflect a little bit on the Holy Spirit with Saint Basil the Great, a bishop from the 4th Century who write so beautifully about the work of the Holy Spirit:

  
  

  "The titles given to the Holy Spirit must surely stir the soul of anyone who hears them, and make him realize that they speak of nothing less than the supreme Being. Is he not called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, the steadfast Spirit, the guiding Spirit? But his principal and most personal title is the Holy Spirit.
  
  To the Spirit all creatures turn in their need for sanctification; all living things seek him according to their ability. His breath empowers each to achieve its own natural end.
  
  The Spirit is the source of holiness, a spiritual light, and he offers his own light to every mind to help it in its search for truth. By nature the Spirit is beyond the reach of our mind, but we can know him by his goodness. The power of the Spirit fills the whole universe, but he gives himself only to those who are worthy, acting in each according to the measure of his faith.
  
  Simple in himself, the Spirit is manifold in his mighty works. The whole of his being is present to each individual; the whole of his being is present everywhere. Though shared in by many, he remains unchanged; his self-giving is no loss to himself. Like the sunshine, which permeates all the atmosphere, spreading over land and sea, and yet is enjoyed by each person as though it were for him alone, so the Spirit pours forth his grace in full measure, sufficient for all, and yet is present as though exclusively to everyone who can receive him. To all creatures that share in him he gives a delight limited only by their own nature, not by his ability to give.
  
  The Spirit raises our hearts to heaven, guides the steps of the weak, and brings to perfection those who are making progress. He enlightens those who have been cleansed from every stain of sin and makes them spiritual by communion with himself.
  
  As clear, transparent substances become very bright when sunlight falls on them and shine with a new radiance, so also souls in whom the Spirit dwells, and who are enlightened by the Spirit, become spiritual themselves and a source of grace for others.
  
  From the Spirit comes foreknowledge of the future, understanding of the mysteries of faith, insight into the hidden meaning of Scripture, and other special gifts. Through the Spirit we become citizens of heaven, we enter into eternal happiness, and abide in God. Through the Spirit we acquire a likeness to God; indeed, we attain what is beyond our most sublime aspirations—we become God." (From the treatise On the Holy Spirit, Cap 9, 22-23)
   

      May we all pray for receiving more gifts of the Holy Spirit that God wants us to share and edify our Community, the Church.

  
  

  Especially in these trying times of humanity through the pandemic, let us be steadfast in our Faith, grounded in the Holy Scripture, always ready to serve, and filled with the divine love that draws us near to God. 

  I want to sent you all these words from the first Letter of the Apostle John 

  (4: 7-21)

   

  "7 My dear friends, let us love one another, since love is from God and everyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. 8 Whoever fails to love does not know God, because God is love.9 This is the revelation of God's love for us, that God sent his only Son into the world that we might have life through him. 10 Love consists in this: it is not we who loved God, but God loved us and sent his Son to expiate our sins. 11 My dear friends, if God loved us so much, we too should love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God, but as long as we love one another God remains in us and his love comes to its perfection in us. 13 This is the proof that we remain in him and he in us, that he has given us a share in his Spirit. 14 We ourselves have seen and testify that the Father sent his Son as Saviour of the world. 15 Anyone who acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God remains in him and he/she in God. 16 We have recognised for ourselves, and put our faith in, the love God has for us. God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in  God and God in him/her. 17 Love comes to its perfection in us when we can face the Day of Judgement fearlessly, because even in this world we have become as he is. 18 In love there is no room for fear, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear implies punishment and no one who is afraid has come to perfection in love. 19 Let us love, then, because he first loved us. 20 Anyone who says 'I love God' and hates his brother/sister, is a liar, since whoever does not love the brother/sister whom he can see cannot love God whom he/she has not seen. 21 Indeed this is the commandment we have received from him, that whoever loves God, must also love his brother/sister."

  
  

  With my continued prayers, and apostolic benedictions

  united in the Holy Spirit

  yours

  +Karl

  
  
  

  
  

  ECCC NEWS:

  
  

  USA

  
  

  California:

  It is with great joy to announce that as of May, 2020, our Archbishop Dr. Tony Scuderi, NOSF has accepted to be the Protector for the Order of Franciscans of the Eucharist/Order of Franciscans Ecumenical under the leadership of Very Reverend Abbot Father Michael Cuozzo, OFE, M. Div. in Corona, California, Province of Saint Mary Theotokos. 

  
  

  May the new service of our Archbishop Tony be filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and may the members under their Abbot Michael of the Province of Saint Mary Theotokos grow in the service of the Lord. Greetings and blessings to all.

  
  

  Metropolitan Archdiocese of the USA:

  
  

  Rev. Br. Dr. Sam Fratczak, NOFS ordination is being plant for 2020. 

  
  

  Br. Morgan Meis, NOSF

  
  

  Sr. Carolyn George, NOSF

  
  

  Congratulations!

  Prayers and Blessings

  
  

  
  

  A special invitation to our local dioceses throughout the world:

  
  

  Please check out our theological courses that are being offered in our online study programs. Our metropolitan archdiocese in the USA, and Italy have started to be involved with the Programs.

  
  

  St. Anthony's Cathedral Liturgical House of Studies
  

  
  

  
  

  St. Anthony's Cathedral Liturgical House of Studies will focus on preparing students for ministry and laity for deepening their studies.

  
  

  Please contact, Mr. Gary Stasack:

  
  

  E-mail:  admin@stanthonysliturgicalhouse.org

  
  

  Or

  
  

  Fr. Dr. Tom Roberts

  
  

  E-mail: sacralkingship@yahoo.com

  
  

  
  

  to find out more and to seek advice if you have seminarians, or lay people, who would like to attend courses.

  
  

  The variety of biblical, theological, and liturgical studies are a great way to help one prepare for ordinations. 

  And if you do not want to be a minister in the church, but would like to widen and enrich your understanding in these study fields, this is a great opportunity we offer for you. We also working on a Spanish translation for the courses. 

  
  

  I really wanted to encourage you to become part of our study programs. You will love it. 

  
  

  How we say in English: Go for it!

  
  

  It is never too late to study. I have studied 11 years at three different Universities for Master, and two Doctorates :o)

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Italy:

  Congratulations to the ordination of Diaconate of Rev. Fabio Mascaro in June 2020, in Calabria, by our Metropolitan Archbishop, ++Agostino Caro. Many blessings upon your new ministry. Sending you our prayers and greetings.

  
  

  Kenya:

  Our Archdiocese of Western Kenya has expanded their school/orphanage buildings, and almost finished the new cathedral building in Bungoma. Our local Christians work so hard to accomplish this task. Thank you all for your love and labor!

  
  

  India:

  We are getting new inquiries from former Roman priests into our Archdiocese of India. 

  
  

  Special Prayers for all our Christians in Africa who are suffering and being persecuted by war, famine, and hate!

  
  

  
  

  Last: as per new inquiries by new members of our Church, a reminder for our Eucharistic Celebrations in the different Catholic and Orthodox Rites:

  
  

  In our ecumenical liturgical prayers within the Eucharist where we commemorate the living in the Church we always say, 

  
  

  "We pray for the Bishop of Rome, Pope Francis, for the Eastern Patriarch, Bartholomew, for the Anglican Communion, Archbishop Justin, for our Ecumenical Primate, Archbishop Karl,..(which is followed by mentioning your local bishop of the ECCC) and your people you have summoned here before you in faith, and gather all your children throughout the world"

   

  Thank you!

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Paz y saludos a todos ustedes a través de nuestra comunión eclesial mundial, en esta Santa Fiesta de Pentecostés mientras celebramos la Venida y las Obras del Espíritu Santo, el Cumpleaños de la Iglesia Cristiana!

  
  

      Pensando en todos ustedes en nuestras diferentes iglesias en todo el mundo, siempre me conmueve su amor y servicio para todo el pueblo de Dios, y con quienes caminamos unidos hacia el Reino celestial.

  
  

      A través de mis contactos personales con nuestros Nuncios, y los muchos de ustedes que me escriben personalmente, estamos conectados a través de un vínculo sagrado que el Espíritu Santo nos otorga, el Amor de Dios que emana para nosotros sin cesar. Es exactamente esta presencia divina del Espíritu Santo entre nosotros la que sigue construyendo nuestra Iglesia, y vemos cada vez más gente que viene a nosotros buscando un lugar de una comunidad de amor y aceptación donde también se puede encontrar curación.    

  
  

      La Fiesta del Espíritu Santo de hoy nos recuerda ese poder divino que podemos experimentar en nuestras vidas, los dones que nos muestra a cada uno de nosotros según nuestras necesidades y capacidades. 

      Reflexionemos un poco sobre el Espíritu Santo con San Basilio el Grande, un obispo del siglo IV que escribe tan bellamente sobre el trabajo del Espíritu Santo:

  
  

  "Los títulos dados al Espíritu Santo deben seguramente conmover el alma de cualquiera que los escuche, y hacerle comprender que hablan nada menos que del Ser supremo. ¿No se le llama el Espíritu de Dios, el Espíritu de la verdad que procede del Padre, el Espíritu inquebrantable, el Espíritu guía? Pero su título principal y más personal es el Espíritu Santo.

  
  

  Al Espíritu se dirigen todas las criaturas en su necesidad de santificación; todos los seres vivos lo buscan según su capacidad. Su aliento capacita a cada uno para lograr su propio fin natural.

  
  

  El Espíritu es la fuente de la santidad, una luz espiritual, y ofrece su propia luz a cada mente para ayudarla en su búsqueda de la verdad. Por naturaleza el Espíritu está más allá del alcance de nuestra mente, pero podemos conocerlo por su bondad. El poder del Espíritu llena todo el universo, pero sólo se da a los que son dignos, actuando en cada uno según la medida de su fe.

  
  

  Simple en sí mismo, el Espíritu es múltiple en sus obras poderosas. Todo su ser está presente en cada individuo; todo su ser está presente en todas partes. Aunque compartido por muchos, permanece inalterable; su entrega no es una pérdida para sí mismo. Como el sol, que impregna toda la atmósfera, se extiende sobre la tierra y el mar, y sin embargo es disfrutado por cada persona como si fuera sólo para él, así el Espíritu derrama su gracia en plena medida, suficiente para todos, y sin embargo está presente como si fuera exclusivamente para todos los que pueden recibirlo. A todas las criaturas que participan en él les da un deleite limitado sólo por su propia naturaleza, no por su capacidad de dar.

  
  

  El Espíritu eleva nuestros corazones al cielo, guía los pasos de los débiles y lleva a la perfección a los que progresan. Ilumina a los que han sido limpiados de toda mancha de pecado y los hace espirituales por la comunión con él.

  
  

  Así como las sustancias claras y transparentes se vuelven muy brillantes cuando la luz del sol cae sobre ellas y brillan con un nuevo resplandor, así también las almas en las que habita el Espíritu, y que son iluminadas por el Espíritu, se vuelven espirituales ellas mismas y una fuente de gracia para los demás.

  
  

  Del Espíritu surge la conciencia del futuro, la comprensión de los misterios de la fe, el entendimiento del significado oculto de la Escritura y otros dones especiales. A través del Espíritu nos convertimos en ciudadanos del cielo, entramos en la felicidad eterna, y permanecemos en Dios. A través del Espíritu adquirimos una semejanza con Dios; de hecho, alcanzamos lo que está más allá de nuestras más sublimes aspiraciones: nos convertimos en Dios". (Del tratado sobre el Espíritu Santo, Cap 9, 22-23)

   

      Que todos recemos para recibir más dones del Espíritu Santo que Dios quiere que compartamos y edifiquemos nuestra Comunidad, la Iglesia.

  
  

  Especialmente en estos tiempos difíciles de la humanidad a través de la pandemia, seamos firmes en nuestra fe, basados en las Sagradas Escrituras, siempre listos para servir, y llenos del amor divino que nos acerca a Dios. 

  Quiero enviarles todas estas palabras de la primera Carta del Apóstol Juan 

  (4: 7-21)

   

  "7 Queridos amigos, amémonos los unos a los otros, ya que el amor viene de Dios y todo el que ama es hijo de Dios y conoce a Dios. 8 Quien no ama no conoce a Dios, porque Dios es amor.9 Esta es la revelación del amor de Dios por nosotros, que Dios envió a su único Hijo al mundo para que tuviéramos vida a través de él. 10 El amor consiste en esto: no somos nosotros los que hemos amado a Dios, sino que Dios nos ha amado a nosotros y ha enviado a su Hijo para expiar nuestros pecados. 11 Queridos amigos, si Dios nos amó tanto, nosotros también deberíamos amarnos. 12 Nadie ha visto nunca a Dios, pero mientras nos amemos, Dios permanece en nosotros y su amor llega a su perfección en nosotros. 13 Esta es la prueba de que permanecemos en él y él en nosotros, de que nos ha hecho partícipes de su Espíritu. 14 

  
  

   Nosotros mismos hemos visto y testificamos que el Padre envió a su Hijo como Salvador del mundo. 15 Todo aquel que reconoce que Jesús es el Hijo de Dios, Dios permanece en él y él en Dios. 16 Hemos reconocido por nosotros mismos, y hemos puesto nuestra fe en el amor que Dios nos tiene. Dios es amor, y quien permanece en el amor, permanece en Dios y Dios en él. 17 El amor llega a su perfección en nosotros cuando podemos afrontar sin miedo el Día del Juicio, porque incluso en este mundo nos hemos convertido en lo que él es. 18 En el amor no hay lugar para el miedo, pero el amor perfecto expulsa el miedo, porque el miedo implica un castigo y nadie que tenga miedo ha llegado a la perfección en el amor. 19 Amemos, pues, porque él nos amó primero. 20 El que dice "Yo amo a Dios" y odia a su hermano/hermana, es un mentiroso, ya que el que no ama al hermano/hermana que puede ver, no puede amar a Dios a quien no ha visto. 21 En efecto, este es el mandamiento que hemos recibido de él, que quien ama a Dios, debe también amar a su hermano/hermana."

  
  

  Con mis continuas oraciones y bendiciones apostólicas

  unidos en el Espíritu Santo

  el tuyo

  +Karl

  
  

  NOTICIAS ICEC:

  
  

  EE.UU.

  
  

  California:

  Es con gran alegría anunciar que a partir de mayo de 2020, nuestro Arzobispo Dr. Tony Scuderi, NOSF ha aceptado ser el Protector de la Orden de los Franciscanos de la Eucaristía/Orden de los Franciscanos Ecuménicos bajo el liderazgo del Muy Reverendo Abad Padre Michael Cuozzo, OFE, M. Div. en Corona, California, Provincia de Santa María Theotokos. 

  
  

  Que el nuevo servicio de nuestro Arzobispo Tony esté lleno de los dones del Espíritu Santo, y que los miembros bajo su Abad Michael de la Provincia de Santa María Theotokos crezcan en el servicio del Señor. Saludos y bendiciones para todos.

  Estados Unidos:
  

  Nuestra Catedral de San Antonio está preparando a nuestros candidatos al Diaconado:

  
  

  Rev. Hermano Dr. Sam Fratczak, la ordenación de la NOFS está siendo plantada para el 2020. 

  
  

  Hermano Morgan Meis, NOSF

  
  

  Hermana Carolyn George, NOSF

  
  

  ¡Felicidades!

  Oraciones y bendicione

  
  

  
  

  Una invitación especial y muy importante a nuestras diócesis locales en todo el mundo:

  
  

  Por favor, vean nuestros cursos teológicos que se ofrecen en nuestros programas de estudio en internet. Nuestra arquidiócesis metropolitana en los EE.UU. e Italia han comenzado a involucrarse en los programas.

  
  

  La Casa de Estudios Litúrgicos de la Catedral de San Antonio. Por favor visita la página web arriba. 

  
  

  
  

  La Casa de Estudios Litúrgicos de la Catedral de San Antonio se centrará en la preparación de los estudiantes...

  
  

  Por favor, contacte con el Sr. Gary Stasack:

  Correo electrónico: admin@stanthonysliturgicalhouse.org

  
  

  
  

  P. Dr. Tom Roberts

  Correo electrónico: sacralkingship@yahoo.com

  
  

  
  

  para saber más y buscar consejo si tiene seminaristas, o laicos, que quieran asistir a los cursos.

  
  

  La variedad de estudios bíblicos, teológicos y litúrgicos son una gran ayuda para prepararse para las ordenaciones. 

  Y si no quiere ser un ministro en la iglesia, pero le gustaría ampliar y enriquecer su comprensión en estos campos de estudio, esta es una gran oportunidad que le ofrecemos. También estamos trabajando en una traducción al español para los cursos. 

  
  

  Realmente quería animarte a que formaras parte de nuestros programas de estudio. Te encantará. 

  
  

  Nunca es demasiado tarde para estudiar. 

  He estudiado 11 años en tres universidades diferentes para el Master, y dos Doctorados :o)

  
  

  
  

  Italia:

  Felicitaciones a la ordenación diaconal del Rev. Fabio Mascaro en junio de 2020, en Calabria, por nuestro Arzobispo Metropolitano, ++Agostino Caro. Muchas bendiciones sobre su nuevo ministerio. Le enviamos nuestras oraciones y saludos.

  
  

  
  

  Kenia:

  Nuestra Arquidiócesis de Kenia Occidental ha ampliado los edificios de su escuela y orfanato, y casi ha terminado el nuevo edificio de la catedral en Bungoma. Nuestros cristianos locales trabajan muy duro para llevar a cabo esta tarea. Gracias a todos por su amor y trabajo!

  
  

  India:

  Estamos recibiendo nuevas solicitudes de antiguos sacerdotes romanos en nuestra Arquidiócesis de la India. 

  
  

  Oraciones especiales para todos nuestros cristianos en África que están sufriendo y siendo perseguidos por la guerra, el hambre y el odio!

  
  

  Por último: según las nuevas consultas de los nuevos miembros de nuestra Iglesia, un recordatorio para nuestras celebraciones eucarísticas en los diferentes ritos católicos y ortodoxos:

  
  

  En nuestras oraciones litúrgicas ecuménicas dentro de la Eucaristía, donde conmemoramos lo vivo en la Iglesia, siempre decimos, 

  
  

  "Oramos por el Obispo de Roma, el Papa Francisco, por el Patriarca Oriental, Bartolomé, por la Comunión Anglicana, el Arzobispo Justin, por nuestro Primado Ecuménico, el Arzobispo Karl,... (que es seguido por la mención de su obispo local de la CCE) y su pueblo que ha convocado aquí ante usted en la fe, y reunir a todos sus hijos en todo el mundo"

  
  

  ¡Gracias!

  
  

  
  

  Pace e saluti a tutti voi in tutta la nostra Chiesa mondiale, in questa Santa Festa di Pentecoste che celebra la Venuta e le Opere dello Spirito Santo, il Compleanno della Chiesa Cristiana!

  
  

      Pensando a tutti voi nelle nostre diverse chiese nel mondo, sono sempre commosso dal vostro amore e dal vostro servizio per tutto il popolo di Dio, e con il quale camminiamo uniti verso il Regno celeste.

  
  

      Attraverso i miei contatti personali con i nostri Nunzi, e con i molti di voi che mi scrivete personalmente, siamo legati da un sacro vincolo che lo Spirito Santo ci dona, l'Amore di Dio che emana per noi senza sosta. È proprio questa presenza divina dello Spirito Santo in mezzo a noi che continua a costruire la nostra Chiesa, e vediamo sempre più persone venire da noi in cerca di un luogo di comunità amorevole e accogliente dove si possa trovare anche la guarigione.    

  
  

      La Festa dello Spirito Santo di oggi ci ricorda quel potere divino che possiamo sperimentare nella nostra vita, i doni che egli mostra a ciascuno di noi secondo i nostri bisogni e le nostre capacità. 

      Riflettiamo tutti un po' sullo Spirito Santo con San Basilio il Grande, un vescovo del IV secolo che scrive in modo così bello sull'opera dello Spirito Santo:

  
  

  "I titoli dati allo Spirito Santo devono sicuramente agitare l'anima di chiunque li ascolti, e fargli capire che essi parlano di niente di meno che dell'Essere supremo. Non è forse chiamato lo Spirito di Dio, lo Spirito della verità che procede dal Padre, lo Spirito risoluto, lo Spirito guida? Ma il suo titolo principale e più personale è lo Spirito Santo.

  
  

  Allo Spirito si rivolgono tutte le creature nel loro bisogno di santificazione; tutti gli esseri viventi lo cercano secondo la loro capacità. Il suo respiro permette a ciascuno di raggiungere il proprio fine naturale.

  
  

  Lo Spirito è la fonte della santità, una luce spirituale, e offre la sua luce ad ogni mente per aiutarla nella sua ricerca della verità. Per natura lo Spirito è fuori dalla portata della nostra mente, ma possiamo conoscerlo per la sua bontà. La potenza dello Spirito riempie tutto l'universo, ma egli si dona solo a coloro che sono degni, agendo in ciascuno secondo la misura della sua fede.

  
  

  Semplice in se stesso, lo Spirito è molteplice nelle sue opere possenti. Tutto il suo essere è presente ad ogni individuo; tutto il suo essere è presente ovunque. Anche se condiviso da molti, egli rimane immutato; il suo dono di sé non è una perdita per se stesso. Come il sole, che permea tutta l'atmosfera, si diffonde sulla terra e sul mare, eppure è goduto da ciascuno come se fosse solo per lui, così lo Spirito effonde la sua grazia in piena misura, sufficiente per tutti, eppure è presente come se fosse esclusivamente a tutti coloro che possono riceverlo. A tutte le creature che condividono in lui egli dona un piacere limitato solo dalla propria natura, non dalla sua capacità di dare.

  
  

  Lo Spirito innalza i nostri cuori al cielo, guida i passi dei deboli e porta alla perfezione coloro che progrediscono. Egli illumina coloro che sono stati purificati da ogni macchia di peccato e li rende spirituali attraverso la comunione con se stesso.

  
  

  Come le sostanze chiare e trasparenti diventano molto luminose quando la luce del sole cade su di loro e risplendono di un nuovo splendore, così anche le anime in cui lo Spirito abita, e che sono illuminate dallo Spirito, diventano esse stesse spirituali e fonte di grazia per gli altri.

  
  

  Dallo Spirito viene la preveggenza del futuro, la comprensione dei misteri della fede, l'intuizione del significato nascosto della Scrittura e altri doni speciali. Attraverso lo Spirito diventiamo cittadini del cielo, entriamo nella felicità eterna e restiamo in Dio. Attraverso lo Spirito acquisiamo una somiglianza con Dio, anzi, raggiungiamo ciò che è al di là delle nostre più sublimi aspirazioni: diventiamo Dio". (Dal trattato sullo Spirito Santo, Cap. 9, 22-23)

   

      Preghiamo tutti per ricevere più doni dello Spirito Santo che Dio vuole farci condividere ed edificare la nostra Comunità, la Chiesa.

  
  

  Soprattutto in questi tempi difficili dell'umanità attraverso la pandemia, siamo saldi nella nostra Fede, radicati nella Sacra Scrittura, sempre pronti a servire, e pieni dell'amore divino che ci avvicina a Dio. 

  Voglio inviarvi tutte queste parole della prima Lettera dell'apostolo Giovanni 

  (4: 7-21)

   

  "7 Miei cari amici, amiamoci l'un l'altro, poiché l'amore è da Dio e tutti coloro che amano sono figli di Dio e conoscono Dio. 8 Chi non ama non conosce Dio, perché Dio è amore.9 Questa è la rivelazione dell'amore di Dio per noi, che Dio ha mandato il suo Figlio unigenito nel mondo perché noi potessimo avere la vita attraverso di lui. 10 L'amore consiste in questo: non siamo noi che abbiamo amato Dio, ma Dio ha amato noi e ha mandato suo Figlio per espiare i nostri peccati. 11 Miei cari amici, se Dio ci ha amati così tanto, anche noi dovremmo amarci l'un l'altro. 12 Nessuno ha mai visto Dio, ma finché ci amiamo l'un l'altro Dio rimane in noi e il suo amore raggiunge la sua perfezione in noi. 13 Questa è la prova che noi rimaniamo in lui e lui in noi, che ci ha dato una parte del suo Spirito. 14 Noi stessi abbiamo visto e testimoniamo che il Padre ha mandato suo Figlio come Salvatore del mondo. 15 Chiunque riconosce che Gesù è il Figlio di Dio, Dio rimane in lui e in Dio. 16 Noi stessi abbiamo riconosciuto e messo la nostra fede nell'amore che Dio ha per noi. Dio è amore, e chi rimane nell'amore rimane in Dio e Dio in lui/lei. 17 L'amore raggiunge la sua perfezione in noi quando possiamo affrontare il giorno del giudizio senza paura, perché anche in questo mondo siamo diventati come lui. 18 Nell'amore non c'è spazio per la paura, ma l'amore perfetto scaccia la paura, perché la paura implica una punizione e nessuno che ha paura è arrivato alla perfezione nell'amore. 19 Amiamoci, dunque, perché egli ci ha amati per primo. 20 Chi dice "Io amo Dio" e odia il fratello/sorella, è un bugiardo, perché chi non ama il fratello/sorella che vede non può amare Dio che non ha visto. 21 Infatti questo è il comandamento che abbiamo ricevuto da lui, che chi ama Dio, deve amare anche il fratello/sorella".

  
  

  Con le mie continue preghiere e le mie benedizioni apostoliche

  uniti nello Spirito Santo

  il vostro

  +Karl

  
  

  
  

  NOTIZIE CCEC:

  
  

  USA

  
  

  California:

  E' con grande gioia che annunciamo che dal maggio 2020 il nostro Arcivescovo Dr. Tony Scuderi, NOSF, ha accettato di essere il Protettore dell'Ordine dei Francescani dell'Eucaristia/Ordine dei Francescani Ecumenici sotto la guida del Reverendissimo Abate Padre Michael Cuozzo, OFE, M. Div. a Corona, California, Provincia di Santa Maria Theotokos. 

  
  

  Possa il nuovo servizio del nostro Arcivescovo Tony essere riempito con i doni dello Spirito Santo, e possano i membri sotto la guida del loro Abate Michael della Provincia di Santa Maria Theotokos crescere nel servizio del Signore. Saluti e benedizioni a tutti.

  
  

  Arcidiocesi Metropolitana degli Stati Uniti:

  Nostra Cattedrale di Sant'Antonio sta preparando i nostri Candidati per il Diaconato:

  
  

  Rev.do Fr. Dr. Sam Fratczak, NOFS,  l'ordinazione per il 2020. 

  
  

  Fratello Morgan Meis, NOSF

  
  

  Sorella Carolyn George, NOSF

  
  

  Congratulazioni!

  Preghiere e benedizioni

  
  

  
  

  Un invito speciale alle nostre diocesi locali in tutto il mondo:

  
  

  Vi preghiamo di dare un'occhiata ai nostri corsi di teologia che vengono offerti nei nostri programmi di studio online. La nostra arcidiocesi metropolitana negli Stati Uniti e in Italia ha iniziato a partecipare ai programmi.

  
  

  La Casa di studi liturgici della Cattedrale di Sant'Antonio si concentrerà sulla preparazione degli studenti al ministero e dei laici ad approfondire i loro studi.

  
  

  Si prega di contattare:

  
  

  Il signor Gary Stasack:

  E-mail: admin@stanthonysliturgicalhouse.org

  
  

  
  

  P. Dr. Tom Roberts

  E-mail: sacralkingship@yahoo.com

  
  

  per saperne di più e per chiedere consigli se avete seminaristi, o laici, che vorrebbero frequentare dei corsi.

  
  

  La varietà di studi biblici, teologici e liturgici è un ottimo modo per aiutare a prepararsi alle ordinazioni. 

  E se non volete essere un ministro nella chiesa, ma volete ampliare e arricchire la vostra comprensione in questi campi di studio, questa è una grande opportunità che vi offriamo. Stiamo anche lavorando a una traduzione in spagnolo per i corsi. 

  
  

  Volevo davvero incoraggiarti ad entrare a far parte dei nostri programmi di studio. Vi piacerà molto. 

  
  

  Non è mai troppo tardi per studiare. 

  Ho studiato 11 anni in tre diverse università per il Master e due dottorati :o)

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Italia:

  Congratulazioni per l'ordinazione del Diaconato di Rev. Fabio Mascaro nel giugno 2020, in Calabria, da parte del nostro Arcivescovo Metropolita, ++Agostino Caro. Tante benedizioni sul suo nuovo ministero. Le inviamo le nostre preghiere e i nostri saluti.

  
  

  Kenya:

  La nostra Arcidiocesi del Kenya occidentale ha ampliato gli edifici della sua scuola/orfanotrofio e ha quasi finito il nuovo edificio della cattedrale di Bungoma. I nostri cristiani locali lavorano sodo per portare a termine questo compito. Grazie a tutti voi per il vostro amore e il vostro lavoro!

  
  

  India:

  Stiamo ricevendo nuove richieste da parte di ex sacerdoti romani nella nostra arcidiocesi dell'India. 

  
  

  Preghiere speciali per tutti i nostri cristiani in Africa che soffrono e sono perseguitati dalla guerra, dalla carestia e dall'odio!

  
  

  Ultimo: come da nuove richieste di nuovi membri della nostra Chiesa, un promemoria per le nostre Celebrazioni Eucaristiche nei diversi Riti Cattolici e Ortodossi:

  
  

  Nelle nostre preghiere liturgiche ecumeniche all'interno dell'Eucaristia, dove commemoriamo i vivi nella Chiesa, diciamo sempre, 

  
  

  "Preghiamo per il Vescovo di Roma, Papa Francesco, per il Patriarca orientale, Bartolomeo, per la Comunione Anglicana, l'Arcivescovo Justin, per il nostro Primate Ecumenico, l'Arcivescovo Karl,... (che è seguito dalla menzione del vostro vescovo locale dell'ECCC) e del vostro popolo che avete convocato qui davanti a voi nella fede, e riunite tutti i vostri figli nel mondo intero".

   

  Grazie!

  
  

  
  

  
  
• 
  
•  

Peace to you all,

Hope you are all doing well.

Sending you my greetings and best wishes for this 3rd sunday of Easter.
In these trying times, please keep staying at home and be safe. We hear now that many young people are also having problems with the covid19 virus, from strokes to blood clotting, etc.

I want to also reassure you -contrary to some extremist evangelical preachers out there- that God is not an ally of misery and evil. 
The Pandemic has nothing to do with God's wrath for Humanity!

We have our free will, and morally speaking nature has a certain freedom as well, different from ours though.
God wants healing among us and to restore our existence with health, Love and Peace.

I want to share with you an excerpt from a sermon of a Franciscan Priest, Fr. Cantalamessa (the house chaplain of the Pope), it is a little long, but I hope you take the time to read it, it is very helpful to understand a little of what is going on right now with the pandemic:

"The cross is better understood by its effects than by its causes. And what were the effects of Christ’s death? Being justified through faith in him, being reconciled and at peace with God, and being filled with the hope of eternal life! (see Rom 53:1-5).

But there is one effect that the current situation can help us to grasp in particular. The cross of Christ has changed the meaning of pain and human suffering—of every kind of suffering, physical and moral. It is no longer punishment, a curse. It was redeemed at its root when the Son of God took it upon himself. What is the surest proof that the drink someone offers you is not poisoned? It is if that person drinks from the same cup before you do. This is what God has done: on the cross he drank, in front of the whole world, the cup of pain down to its dregs. This is how he showed us it is not poisoned, but that there is a pearl at the bottom of this chalice.

And not only the pain of those who have faith, but of every human pain. He died for all human beings: “And when I am lifted up from the earth,” he said, “I will draw everyone to myself” (Jn 12:32).

Everyone, not just some! St. John Paul II wrote from his hospital bed after his attempted assassination, “To suffer means to become particularly susceptible, particularly open to the working of the salvific powers of God, offered to humanity in Christ.” Thanks to the cross of Christ, suffering has also become in its own way a kind of “universal sacrament of salvation” for the human race.

What light does all of this shed on the dramatic situation that the world is going through now? Here too we need to look at the effects more than at the causes—not just the negative ones we hear about every day in heart-wrenching reports but also the positive ones that only a more careful observation can help us grasp.

The pandemic of Coronavirus has abruptly roused us from the greatest danger individuals and humanity have always been susceptible to: the delusion of omnipotence. 
A Jewish rabbi has written that we have the opportunity to celebrate a very special paschal exodus this year, that “from the exile of consciousness”. It took merely the smallest and most formless element of nature, a virus, to remind us that we are mortal, that military power and technology are not sufficient to save us. As a psalm says, “In his prime, man does not understand. He is like the beasts—they perish” (Ps 49:21). How true that is!
While he was painting frescoes in St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, the artist James Thornhill became so excited at a certain point about his fresco that he stepped back to see it better and was unaware he was about to fall over the edge of the scaffolding. A horrified assistant understood that crying out to him would have only hastened the disaster. Without thinking twice, he dipped a brush in paint and hurled it at the middle of the fresco. The master, appalled, sprang forward. His work was damaged, but he was saved.

God does this with us sometimes: he disrupts our projects and our calm to save us from the abyss we don’t see. But we need to be careful not to be deceived. God is not the one who hurled the brush at the sparkling fresco of our technological society. God is our ally, not the ally of the virus! He himself says in the Bible, “I have . . . plans for your welfare and not for woe” (Jer 29:11). If these scourges were punishments of God, it would not be explained why they strike equally good and bad, and why the poor usually bring the worst consequences of them. Are they more sinners than others?

No! The one who cried one day for Lazarus' death cries today for the scourge that has fallen on humanity. Yes, God "suffers", like every father and like every mother. When we will find out this one day, we will be ashamed of all the accusations we made against him in life. God participates in our pain to overcome it. "Being supremely good” - wrote St. Augustine - “God would not allow any evil in his works, unless in his omnipotence and goodness, he is able to bring forth good out of evil.”[4]

Did God the Father possibly desire the death of his Son in order to draw good out of it? No, he simply permitted human freedom to take its course, making it serve, however, his own purposes and not those of human beings. This is also the case for natural disasters like earthquakes and plagues. He does not bring them about. He has given nature a kind of freedom as well, qualitatively different of course than that of human beings, but still a form of freedom—freedom to evolve according to its own laws of development. He did not create a world as a programmed clock whose movements could all be anticipated. It is what some call “chance” but the Bible calls instead “the wisdom of God.”

The other positive fruit of the present health crisis is the feeling of solidarity. When, in human memory, have the people of all nations ever felt themselves so united, so equal, so less in conflict than at this moment of pain? Never so much as now have we experienced the truth of the words of a great Italian poet: “Peace, you peoples! Too deep is the mystery of the prostrate earth.” Giovanni Pascoli.

The virus knows no borders. In an instant it has broken down all the barriers and distinctions of race, nation, religion, wealth, and power. We should not revert to that prior time when this moment has passed. As the Holy Father has exhorted us, we should not waste this opportunity. Let us not allow so much pain, so many deaths, and so much heroic engagement on the part of health workers to have been in vain. Returning to the way things were is the “recession” of which we should have the most fear.

The word of God tells us the first thing we should do at times like these is to cry out to God. He himself is the one who puts on people’s lips the words to cry out to him, at times harsh words and almost of accusation: “Awake! Why do you sleep, O Lord? / Rise up! Do not reject us forever! . . . Rise up, help us! / Redeem us in your mercy” (Ps 44, 24, 27). “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” (Mk 4:38).

Does God perhaps like to be petitioned so that he can grant his benefits? Can our prayer perhaps make God change his plans? No, but there are things, St. Matthew explains, that God has decided to grant us as the fruit both of his grace and of our prayer, almost as though sharing with his creatures the credit for the benefit received. God is the one who prompts us to do it: “Seek and you will find,” Jesus said; “knock and the door will be opened to you” (Mt 7:7).

When the Israelites were bitten by poisonous serpents in the desert, God commanded Moses to lift up a serpent of bronze on a pole, and whoever looked at it would not die. Jesus appropriated this symbol to himself when he told Nicodemus, “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life” (Jn 3:14-15). We too at this moment have been bitten by an invisible, poisonous “serpent.” Let us gaze upon the one who was “lifted up” for us on the cross. Let us adore him on behalf of ourselves and of the whole human race. The one who looks on him with faith does not die. And if that person dies, it will be to enter eternal life.

"After three days I will rise", Jesus had foretold (cf. Mt 9:31). We too, after these days that we hope will be short, shall rise and come out of the tombs our homes have become. Not however to return to the former life like Lazarus, but to a new life, like Jesus. A more fraternal, more human, more Christian life!"

Be all blessed
+Karl

Cathedral of St. Anthony Communique Reducing the spread of infection: Clergy and congregation 

 You should always practice good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene. Hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene are a series of actions to take which are designed to reduce the spread of disease, including COVID-19, to yourself and others. These actions include regular handwashing and covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or the bend of your elbow when you cough or sneeze.

Hand hygiene: Wash your hands regularly. You should wash your hands: after coughing or sneezing before, during and after you prepare food before eating after using the toilet before and after caring for sick individuals when hands are dirty after handling animals or animal waste Wash your hands with soap and running water when hands are visibly dirty. If your hands are not visibly dirty, wash them with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub. Respiratory hygiene: Cover your mouth and nose with a clean tissue when you cough and sneeze and then promptly dispose of the tissue in a bin and wash your hands. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow instead, not into your hands. Posters on preventing spread of infection are available on the HPSC website. Settings where religious services take place, including churches, should take the following actions

Religious leaders/clergy and congregation not to attend if they are ill. Supply tissues and alcohol based hand gel at religious services/gatherings. Provide bins for disposal of tissues at religious gatherings. Ensure hand-washing facilities, including soap and disposable towels, are well maintained. Ensure all hard surfaces that are frequently touched, such as door handles, hand rails, taps and pews are cleaned regularly with a household detergent. Have a plan for how the church will continue or suspend its activities in the event of religious leaders/clergy becoming ill with COVID-19. Religious leader/clergy administrations to sick laity should be carefully managed

Physical interaction during religious services, e.g. Sign of Peace

Most physical interaction during religious services, e.g. shaking hands while exchanging the ‘Sign of Peace’ in Christian religious services, involves a low risk of spreading the virus especially if members of the congregation who are unwell do not attend religious services while they are ill. However, because COVID-19 is a new disease that has not been seen in people before, we need to exercise extreme caution to limit the spread of the virus. Current information suggests that COVID-19 can spread easily between people and could be spread from an infected person even before they develop any symptoms. For these reasons we suggest that physical interaction during religious services, including the Sign of Peace, should be suspended. For Christian religious services, the priest may choose to give the congregation permission to carry out an alternative Sign of Peace that does not involve hand contact (such as smile/ nod/ bow) if so wished. The practice of shaking hands on greeting and departure at religious services/ gatherings should be suspended for both religious leaders/clergy and laity.

Communion Using communal vessels for food and drink during religious services, e.g. drinking from the Chalice during Holy Communion in Christian services To minimise the risk of spread of infection, the use of communal vessels should be suspended. For example, during Holy Communion in Christian religious services only the celebrant should drink from the Chalice. No one else should drink from the Chalice – this includes other priests, ministers of the Eucharist and members of the congregation. Alternatives to direct sharing of the Chalice should also be AVOIDED including: 1.Intinction, i.e.:  the Communion wafer is dipped in the Chalice and administered into the hand or the Communion wafer is administered into the communicant’s hand and they dip it into the Chalice. 2.Distribution of Communion wine through individual small cups Everyone administering Holy Communion should wash their hands or use alcohol based hand gel before beginning. Holy Communion should be administered into the hands only and NOT onto the tongue

Thank you, Health and Blessings +Archbishop Dr. Karl Rodig

• Christmas, Navidad, Natale, Noel  A. D. 2019 

  
  

  
  

  (Please share with all, Thank you! Compartir con todos, Gracias!)

  
  

  Hodie, Christus Natus est, Hallelujah, Hallelujah!

  Et Pax Hominibus bonae voluntatis.

  Gloria in Excelsis Deo! 

  Merry Christmas! 

  Afrikaans:

  Geseënde Kersfees en 'n gelukkige nuwe jaar

  Albanian:  Gëzuar Krishlindjet Vitin e Ri!

  Germany: Fröhliche Weihnachten und ein Gesegnetes Neues Jahr Euch allen Nah und Fern.

  Möge der Friede Christi in Euere Herzen einziehen!

  Arabic: ميلاد مجيد
  Bulgaria: Весела Коледа и благословена Нова година

  Armenian:  Shenoraavor Nor Dari yev Soorp Janunt

  Esturian:  Bones Navidaes & Gayoleru anu nuevu! 

  Belgium:  Zalige Kertfeest   

  Catalán:  Bon Nadal i feliç any nou!

  Croatia:  Sretan Bozic! Blagoslovljena i radosna božićna sezona, zdravlje i mir u novoj godini

  Danmark: Glædelig Jul og godt nytår

  English:  Merry Christmas o Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year

  Esperanto:  Gajan Kristnaskon & Bonan Novjaron

  Estonian: Rõõmsaid Jõulupühi ja Head uut aastat

  Finland:  Hauskaa JouluaFrance: Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année! 

  Galic: Nadolig LlawenGallego: Bon Nadal e Bo Ani Novo

  Georgian: გილოცავთ შობა-ახალ წელს

  Holand:  Hartelijke Kerstroeten

  Hawaiian: Mele Kalikimaka me ka Hauʻoli Makahiki Hou Hebrew:  חג מולד שמח

                   Hungary: Kellemes karácsonyi ünnepeket és Boldog újévet!

  Greek: Καλά Χριστούγεννα!

  Indonesia: Selamat Hari Natal & Selamat Tahun Baru 

  Irland: (Gaelic)

  Nollaig shona duit. Bliain úr faoi shéan is faoi mhaise duit

  Italy:  Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo

  Japan: メリークリスマス

  Latin: Pax Hominibus bonae voluntatis
   Lituania: Linksmu Kaledu ir laimingu Nauju metu
  Luxemburg:  Schéi Krëschtdeeg an e Schéint Néi Joer
  Malaysia:  Selamat Hari Natal dan Tahun Baru
  Maori: Meri Kirihimete
  Norway:  Gledelig Jul

  Navajo:

  Ya'at'eeh Keshmish

   Basque- Zorionak eta Urte Berri On!

  Philippines: (Tagalog): Maligayang Pasko

  Poland:  Wesołych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia i szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!

  Portugal: Boas Festas e um Feliz Ano Novo

  Rumania:  Craciun fericit si un An Nou fericit!

  Russin: Pozdravlyenie s Rozjdyestvom i s Novym Godom!

  Samoan:

  Manuia le Kerisimasi, ma le Tausaga Fou

  Serbia: Hristos se rodi

  Slowenia: Vesel božič in srečno novo leto

  Somalia: ciid wanaagsan iyo sanad cusub oo fiican.

  Spain: Feliz Navidadl! Feliz Año Nuevo!

  Que Cristo La Luz del Mundo sea presente in sus corazones por siempre!

  Sri Lanka: Subha Nattalak Veva 

  Swahili: Krismasi Njema / Heri ya krismas. Heri ya mwaka mpya  Wapendwa, Noeli iko mlangoni!  Nawatakieni wote heri sana na baraka kwa sikukuu hii ya Noeli.  Aidha nawaombeeni mwaka mpya wa furaha, na mafaniko.

  Sweden: God Jul och Gott Nytt År

  Tahiti:  La ora i te Noere e ia ora na i te matahiti 'a

  Tamil:

  Nathar Puthu Varuda Valthukkal

  Turkey:  Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun
  Valencia: Bon Nadal i feliç any nou

  Thai: Suk san wan-krit-maat lae sa-wat-dee bpee mai 
  Turkish: Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun; Yeni Yilnizi Kutar, saadetler dilerim 
  Ukrainian: Srozhdestvom Kristovym 
  Vietnamese: Mung Le Giang Sinh. Cung Chuc Tan Nien Welsh - Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda
  

  
  

  
  

  Peace and Joy to you all, beloved brothers and sisters or of our Worldwide Ecumenical Catholic Church of Christ!

  Wishing you all a very blessed and joyous Christmas Season, 

  Health and Peace in A. D. 2020

  
  

      Many wonder how shall we celebrate the birth of Christ this year in a world that has become very self seeking? How do we enjoy a Christmas knowing that so many children worldwide starving to death dying in warthorne regions? How can we celebrate when we know that thousands of refugee and migrant families have been ripped apart, children and babies separated from their parents? How in a world that has become very obsessed with new forms of extremism and an obsession for nationalism creating waves of hate and xenophobia, racism and violence against minorities? Many other thoughts come through mind...

  
  

      Yet in all of this we see the light of Hope in the birth of our Savior, because he reminds us what it needs to be a child of God, poor, defenseless, having become a refugee fleeing to Egypt because of a rampant persecution of the innocent.

  
  

      Our celebration of Christ's birth, God's coming into this world, will only be a heartfelt encounter for us when we see this mystery in its totality: The joy that came to us in the divine incarnation of God in HIS beloved Son who was before all times, Emmanuel, God with us, and who is destined to sacrifice his life through divine love for all of humanity as an act of redemption and liberation is this very reality that only we can accept in a growing faith. This is what our heart seeks in prayerful and active devotion for our work of the Gospel.

      Every year we have the opportunity to grow a little bit more toward this divine Love that brings our personal suffering closer to God, wipes away our complaints and winning, and leads us to a deeper awareness of God's true presence in our lives.

  
  

  It is my joy to know that we are all live and joined in this earthly pilgrimage through God's Grace bestowed on us as a people awaiting Christ's coming in Glory.

      

      May we all seek with a humble heart this human and divine Love from the Child of Bethlehem that greets us with the smile of God.

  
  

  May you always walk in the brotherly and sisterly love with each other so to enter one day that heavenly door to eternity. 

      

  
  

  With my Prayers and benedictions,

  Yours,

     

    +Karl
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  ECCC NEWS:

  
  

  Africa:

  Prayers of thanksgiving to our new bishops in Africa:

  Cameroon: Metropolitan Archbishop Jean of the Resurrection in our new Archdiocese in Yaounde.

  Bishop Elect (consecration in January 2020), Msgr. Amou Didier for the Prelature of the Order of The Companions of St. Augustine. Many blessings to you all!

  
  

  Nigeria, Delta Region: Congratulations to the consecration of our First Bishop in Nigeria, Bishop Celestine Ewerum Onyekach. Many blessings!

  
  

  Kenya: Bishop John Karimi has been appointed through our Nuncio for Africa, H. E. Archbishop Godfrey Siundu to lead the vacant archdiocese of Nairobi, Kenya. Many Blessings!

  
  

  
  

  Asia

  India:

  We welcome the new priest, Fr. Rajkumar and Fr. Philip Lopez into our Metropolitan Archdiocese of India.

  We congratulate our Archbishop Dr. Sunny and his priests for the expansion of our Church into Mumbai.

  
  

  The Philippines:

  We welcome our new bishops, +Reynaldo Prima, +Juanito Tolentino, +Freddy C. Manucan, +Arthuro Banares Costilla

  We thank Bishop Manuel for all his good work for our missions in the Philippines.

  
  

  
  

  Europe:

  Italy

  We congratulate Archbishop Agostino and his clergy for expanting in to Rome, Calabria and the North.

  
  

  
  

  Latin America:

  Colombia:

  We welcome wholeheartedly the bishops and priests under the leadership of Bishop Ruben in Bogota to our Church.

  More priests are applying to our Church in Colombia as we speak.

  We welcome two deacons from a sister church in Ecuador into our diocese in Ecuador. Special thanks always to our Nuncio, H. E. Archbishop Sebastian Pla from Costa Rica for facilitating all the good work!

  
  

  Costa Rica: We welcome our new Brother, Fray Carlos Centeno Prendas for our Franciscan Order NOSF

  
  

  
  

  USA

  Michigan:

  We welcome Fr. Julio at our Cathedral as Spiritual director for the Monastery and helping to reach out to the Hispanic community. We welcome our new members for the New Order of St. Francis, Br. Michael, retired clergy.

  Texas: We welcome Fr. Marty and his missions in Texas into our Church.

  
  

  
  

  Synod planning:

  I am sharing an excerpt of a letter to our Nuncios in regard to reflect and accommodate Continental Synods instead of a worldwide Synod:

  
  

  I wanted to take the occasion to communicate with you about the situation of our Synod that I announced a Year ago.

  As you know, we were planning a worldwide Synod for 2020.

  
  

  There are a few reasons that have emerged that changes the situation and calls for a different approach. Instead of having at this time a worldwide Synod, we should plan on Continental Synods instead. With some I have already communicated via phone. 

  Some of the reasons are:

  
  

  Many of our bishops and clergy work in ministries with little income and have not the financial means to travel to other continents. And there are also Visa restrictions that are problems for many.

  
  

  
  

  First:

  
  

  The Continental Synods are for:

  
  

  I. Asia, including India, The Philippines, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka

  
  

  II. African Continent

  
  

  III. Europe and Eastern Europe, including, Gerogia, Ukraine, and Russia

  
  

  IV. Latin American 

  
  

  V. North America

  
  

  It is very helpful that we plan accordingly on a timeline:

  
  

  I ask you to share with me and each other within the next 3 month an agreed timeline for each continental Synod.

  The Synods can be spread over a year, so I would be able to attend each Synod appropriately. So we would have by the Summer of 2021 the Final Document.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Second: 

  
  

  The Continental Synods will:

  
  

  Assess

  
  

  Discuss 

  
  

  And Elaborate on the local pastoral situations for each country. 

  
  

  Through different workshops in prayerful and active meetings, the results will be presented to:

  
  

  The Plenary Sessions of the continental Synods.

  
  

  This will bring the necessary and new pastoral approaches to light in order to fulfill the Evangelization under Christ's Command for our time. 

  
  

  
  

  Third:

  
  

  Once all 5 Synods are completed, we can put the results together and have a final binding Document issued to share with all involved. 

  
  

  This Document will be of uttermost importance as it will create a new Pastoral Plan for 

  our ECCC. 

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Paz y alegría a todos ustedes, amados hermanos y hermanas o de nuestra ECCC Mundial!

  
  

  Deseándoles a todos una muy bendecida y alegre temporada de Navidad, 

  Salud y Paz en el año 2020

  
  

      Muchos se preguntan cómo celebraremos el nacimiento de Cristo este año en un mundo que se ha convertido en un mundo que se busca a sí mismo. ¿Cómo disfrutamos de una Navidad sabiendo que tantos niños en todo el mundo mueren de hambre en regiones en guerra? ¿Cómo podemos celebrar cuando sabemos que miles de familias de refugiados y migrantes han sido desgarradas, niños y bebés separados de sus padres? ¿Cómo en un mundo que se ha obsesionado mucho con las nuevas formas de extremismo y una obsesión por el nacionalismo que crea olas de odio y xenofobia, racismo y violencia contra las minorías? Muchos otros pensamientos pasan por la mente...

  
  

      Sin embargo, en todo esto vemos la luz de la Esperanza en el nacimiento de nuestro Salvador, porque nos recuerda lo que necesita ser un hijo de Dios, pobre, indefenso, habiéndose convertido en un refugiado que huye a Egipto a causa de una persecución desenfrenada de los inocentes.

  
  

      Nuestra celebración del nacimiento de Cristo, de la venida de Dios a este mundo, sólo será un encuentro sincero para nosotros cuando veamos este misterio en su totalidad: La alegría que nos vino en la encarnación divina de Dios en SU amado Hijo que fue antes de todos los tiempos, Emmanuel, Dios con nosotros, y que está destinado a sacrificar su vida a través del amor divino por toda la humanidad como un acto de redención y liberación es esta misma realidad que sólo nosotros podemos aceptar en una fe creciente. Esto es lo que nuestro corazón busca en la devoción orante y activa por nuestro trabajo del Evangelio.

  
  

      Cada año tenemos la oportunidad de crecer un poco más hacia este Amor divino que acerca nuestro sufrimiento personal a Dios, borra nuestras quejas y victorias y nos lleva a una conciencia más profunda de la verdadera presencia de Dios en nuestras vidas.

  
  

  Es mi alegría saber que todos estamos vivos y unidos en esta peregrinación terrenal por la Gracia de Dios otorgada a nosotros como pueblo que espera la venida de Cristo en la Gloria.

      

      Que todos busquemos con corazón humilde este Amor humano y divino del Niño de Belén que nos saluda con la sonrisa de Dios.

  
  

  Que caminen siempre en el amor fraterno entre ustedes para entrar un día en esa puerta celestial de la eternidad. 

      

  
  

  Con mis oraciones y bendiciones,

  El tuyo,

  +Karl

  
  

  NOTICIAS ICEC:

  
  

  África:

  Oraciones de agradecimiento a nuestros nuevos obispos en África:

  Camerún: El Arzobispo Metropolitano Jean de la Resurrección en nuestra nueva Arquidiócesis en Yaoundé.

  Obispo electo (consagración en enero de 2020), Mons. Amou Didier para la Prelatura de la Orden de los Compañeros de San Agustín. Muchas bendiciones para todos ustedes!

  
  

  Nigeria, Región del Delta: Felicitaciones por la consagración de nuestro primer obispo en el Nigeria, Mons. Celestine Ewerum Onyekach. Muchas bendiciones!

  
  

  Kenia: El Obispo John Karimi ha sido nombrado, a través de nuestro Nuncio para África, S. E. el Arzobispo Godfrey Siundu, para dirigir la arquidiócesis vacante de Nairobi, Kenia. Muchas bendiciones!

  
  

  Asia

  India:

  Damos la bienvenida al nuevo sacerdote, el P. Rajkumar y el P. Philip López a nuestra Arquidiócesis Metropolitana de la India.

  Felicitamos a nuestro Arzobispo Dr. Sunny y a sus sacerdotes por la expansión de nuestra Iglesia en Mumbai.

  
  

  Las Filipinas:

  Damos la bienvenida a nuestros nuevos obispos, +Reynaldo Prima, +Juanito Tolentino, +Freddy C. Manucan, +Arthuro Banares Costilla

  Agradecemos a Mons. Manuel por todo su buen trabajo para nuestras misiones en Filipinas.

  
  

  Europa:

  Italia

  Felicitamos al arzobispo Agostino y a su clero por su expansión en Roma, Calabria y el Norte.

  
  

  América Latina:

  Colombia:

  Damos la bienvenida de todo corazón a los obispos y sacerdotes bajo el liderazgo del Obispo Rubén en Bogotá a nuestra Iglesia.

  Más sacerdotes están solicitando su ingreso a nuestra Iglesia en Colombia mientras hablamos.

  Damos la bienvenida a dos diáconos de una iglesia hermana en Ecuador a nuestra diócesis en Ecuador. Un agradecimiento especial siempre a nuestro Nuncio, S. E. Arzobispo Sebastián Pla de Costa Rica por facilitar todo el buen trabajo!

  
  

  Costa Rica: Damos la bienvenida a nuestro nuevo hermano, Fray Carlos Centeno Prendas de nuestra Orden Franciscana NOSF

  
  

  EE.UU.

  Michigan:

  Damos la bienvenida al P. Julio en nuestra Catedral como director espiritual del Monasterio y ayudando a llegar a la comunidad hispana. Damos la bienvenida a nuestros nuevos miembros de la Nueva Orden de San Francisco, y al sacerdocio, Fr. Michael, clérigo jubilado.

  Texas: Damos la bienvenida a nuestra Iglesia al Padre Marty y a sus misiones en Texas.

  
  

  Planificación del Sínodo:

  Estoy compartiendo un extracto de una carta a nuestros Nuncios en relación con la reflexión y la adaptación de los Sínodos Continentales en lugar de un Sínodo mundial:

  
  

  Quería aprovechar la ocasión para comunicarles la situación de nuestro Sínodo que anuncié hace un año.

  Como ustedes saben, estábamos planeando un Sínodo mundial para el año 2020.

  
  

  Hay algunas razones que han surgido que cambian la situación y que requieren un enfoque diferente. En lugar de tener en este momento un Sínodo mundial, debemos planificar en cambio Sínodos continentales. Con algunos ya me he comunicado por teléfono. 

  Algunas de las razones son:

  
  

  Muchos de nuestros obispos y clérigos trabajan en ministerios con pocos ingresos y no tienen los medios financieros para viajar a otros continentes. Y también hay restricciones de Visa que son problemas para muchos.

  
  

  Primero:

  
  

  Los Sínodos Continentales son para:

  
  

  I. Asia, incluyendo India, Filipinas, Pakistán y Sri Lanka

  
  

  II. Continente africano

  
  

  III. Europa y Europa del Este, incluyendo, Gerogia, Ucrania y Rusia

  
  

  IV. América Latina 

  
  

  V. América del Norte

  
  

  Es muy útil que planifiquemos en consecuencia en una línea de tiempo:

  
  

  Les pido que compartan conmigo y con los demás dentro de los próximos 3 meses un calendario acordado para cada Sínodo continental.

  Los Sínodos pueden ser distribuidos a lo largo de un año, de modo que yo pueda asistir a cada Sínodo de manera apropiada. Así tendríamos para el verano de 2021 el Documento Final.

  
  

  
  

  Segundo: 

  
  

  Los Sínodos Continentales lo harán:

  
  

  Evaluarán

  
  

  Discuta 

  
  

  Y elaborar sobre las situaciones pastorales locales de cada país. 

  
  

  A través de diferentes talleres en reuniones activas y de oración, se presentarán los resultados:

  
  

  Las sesiones plenarias de los Sínodos continentales.

  
  

  De esta manera se darán a conocer los nuevos y necesarios enfoques pastorales para llevar a cabo la Evangelización bajo el mandato de Cristo para nuestro tiempo. 

  
  

  Tercero:

  
  

  Una vez que los 5 Sínodos hayan sido completados, podremos juntar los resultados y tener un Documento final vinculante para compartir con todos los involucrados. 

  
  

  Este documento será de suma importancia ya que creará un nuevo Plan Pastoral para nuestro ICEC.