APDO. Postal No. 13, C.P. 76270
Colon, Queretaro, Mexico
To dial phone direct from U.S. 011 52 429 20245
Direct FAX from U.S. 011 52 429 20046
Mexico: LADA (91-429) 20248
DEAR FRIENDS AND BENEFACTORS:
Feb./March 2002
A SHARED THOUGHT:
It has been 26 years since I have worked in Colorado, so I have been, obviously, left in the dark
about many things that have been happening in the Church. The horrendous scandals of a good
number of the clergy and the millions of dollars that are being lost to lawsuits is of particular
concern. This money is so needed in Third World countries such as where we are, to feed the
more than 40,000,000 Mexicans going to bed hungry each night.
These scandals are far reaching and are tarnishing our Church from those inside it and those who hate the Church. The press loves these scandals, TV can't get enough, the Ted Turners and Murdocks, etc., are dancing as though there is another "Mardi Gras" festival. Hedonistic! This has not been the first time that we have been under fire. The church is for "sinners", thank God! Yes, we really have them and God loves every one of them. Jesus is so wonderful, so good and merciful in His paradoxical living and preaching. He, God, had chosen a traitor. God didn't goof, Judas did. He could have become a great Apostle. We all miss the boat sometime, some more than others. Those who are failing are not cooperating with the grace given to them. Where human nature is found and God's grace is neglected, you can expect the worst to happen. Just look at our society!
I have worked with children for 26 years. All types of people have come to volunteer. Everyone is closely scrutinized and evaluated. The vast majority has been excellent role models; several have been removed from the premises only after a day or two. Some have been doctors, professionals, young and old. Discernment, guided by the Holy Spirit is imperative. Our rules are strict. One rule is to "prevent the preventable". That is not an easy task, take my word for it. We have some 280 children. Briefly here are some of my humble, or not so humble opinions. I believe that if a person would commit a perverted act against a 12 year old child, or younger: first offense 5 years in prison without parole at hard labor. Final point to this "message". Let's get more serious about our holiness-confession, Holy Eucharist, adoration of Blessed Sacrament and things will work out. God is still the same God and He never fails. Pray for all priests and Bishops, please! They are our hope and God is only too glad to keep the boat from capsizing. God bless you and may he give the fickle parasites, without backbone, a good kick-the ones that are looking for a free ride without paying the price. The desert is hot as hell! Leaving the Church and groaning and moaning about is not the answer. Last Sept. 11th is a good example. If we all live our faith, the stars will shine brilliantly and the contamination will be eradicated. Together, Christ will win for us this difficult battle.
DINNER FOR THE POOR:
Two years ago the inspiration came to me during mass that we should also include the poor in our program. Poor Sister Maria Teresa thought I was going through another "illusionary session". She said, "Let the government do that, we have more than enough to care for and pay for the 280 children and 27. elderly. That is more than our share' " I replied, "Dear Sister never limit the Generosity of God. He has never failed us and I have no doubt that He will now begin. Last week, would you believe we served more than 1800 children and adults! Praise God!
THE COLORADO GANG:
On February 28 a very hearty group of 17 men and women from mostly the San Luis Valley in beautiful Colorado poured into our homes to do whatever had to be done. I had in mind for this year to renovate the dinning room in Santa Maria. I have always felt that if your dinning area is clean and attractive it will improve the flavor of the meals. I gave them the basic ideas, got sick and had to go to the U.S. for EKG, Echogram, blood tests, etc. The sad part of all of this is that I was unable to see or visit with them, only once by telephone with the Head-Honcho and fantastic leader Leroy Salazar. What was accomplished is glorious! I will match it with any Denny's or California. restaurant in the U.S. I appreciate beautiful things being done for the Lord and they never waver in providing the very best! They built tables, covered them with formica, put tile on the wall, lowered the ceiling 2 1/2 meters and installed the lighting and put up the beautiful ceiling. Over and above this they paid for the entire project and left $1,700 for any other details and they also gave us all their tools, equipment, etc., another $2000 value! What a magnificent group; singing, playing with the kids, teaching them at the same time and always with joy and a smile on their faces. They are so pleased to be a great part of our family. We all love them very much.
SOME IMPORTANT NEEDS:
We are moving ahead trying to finish a couple more dreams I have before the Lord calls me home to do some flying with the angels, swimming the seven seas, riding on the back of a shark, visiting the thousands of Galaxies and disputing with Sts. Peter and Paul, St Philomena, etc. etc. What are the dreams for Santa Maria?
JIM AND MARGARUITE MANNELLY AND DICK GOHR VISIT SANTA MARIA
It is always a great joy and inspiration when Jim and Cissey visit us, which is frequent. Jim is one of my dependable consultors on the running of the program and Cissey is his inspiration. The Lord has indeed blessed us. They brought along a dear friend of theirs and a benefactor of Santa Maria, Dick Gohr of Minnesota. Dick donated a beautiful life size statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe dedicated as a memorial to his dear wife Ann, which stands at the entrance of our elementary school. Indeed a beautiful addition. Thanks so very much.
STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS:
We have a fine staff that is dedicated to the children but at the same time we are very much under-staffed. If any of you would like to give a year of your life to God, which in reality is very little 'for the salvation of souls.' feel free to drop me a fax or a telephone call. The majority of us are very selfish in giving our time to God, many think that Sunday Mass is sufficient. This is really a joke! God, who has given..us all that we have must be very disappointed with the little time and sacrifice that we give to those in need. Life here is difficult. I have given myself to these children for 26 years and Sr. Ma. Teresa 16 years and we are still going "strong". If you want a challenge, call me. If you are so overwhelmed with work, etc., think about it anyway; God may be the answer you are looking for. We want the best for our children and we are looking only for the best volunteers. You just might be that one!
Love and prayer from all of us and many, many sincere thanks for your love and friendship. We love you dearly.