From the Bishop
 
From the Editor

This issue focuses on commandments three and four.

En Español
 

Diocese of Laredo

 
 

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From the Editor

Remembering the Third and Fourth Commandments

En Español

By Goyo Lopez

This issue’s theme focuses on commandments three and four - remember to keep holy the Sabbath day and honor your father and your mother (Exodus 20: 8 & 12).

As the editor, one of my jobs is to consider story and column ideas that reflect the theme of each issue. Some are rather obvious, while others are not. Here’s one that honors a godmother and a grandmotherly figure. About two months ago, I witnessed what would become the inspiration for this column.

Sister Mary Walden, OSU, celebrated her Jubilee Mass at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Laredo and renewed her vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. The usual VIPs were in attendance including her fellow Ursuline Sisters, chancery personnel, intimate friends, CCD students and a contingent of MIBs - the Men in Black.

Bishop James A. Tamayo’s homily praised Sister Walden for her years of service, her fellow sisters talked of her fondly and Ruth Fierros recited a poem in her honor. We even heard how Sister Walden grew up in an agnostic household void of any Christianity. It wasn’t until she was a young adult in New Jersey that she visited a friend’s home with a picture of Jesus wearing the crown of thorns. Sister Walden’s insatiable curiosity about the greatest story of faith, hope and love culminated in a lifetime of serving our Savior and His people. Even then, the most compelling and emotional moment of the entire Mass came when a Araceli Garcia, no older than 10 years of age, left her parents’ side and walked over to Sister Walden during the recitation of the Lord’s Prayer and remained at her side. Everyone smiled as the young girl lifted Sister’s hand and placed it in hers. And those who knew the whole story had tears welling in their eyes.

The parents of the young girl were the first couple who ever sought the advice, counseling and Marriage Tribunal services from Sister Walden. Sister Walden’s intercession enabled the couple to eventually receive the sacrament of matrimony. As a gesture of gratitude and love, they asked Sister Walden to be godmother to their first-born.

In our Catholic family, being a godparent is a sign of distinction, honor and love. Without a doubt, Sister Walden has endeared herself to the many she has crossed paths with during her time in Laredo. Whether through the lives of the many youngsters at her beloved Santa Monica Mission in El Cenizo or those seeking advice and solace through the Marriage Tribunal, Sister Walden’s compassionate presence will forever remain with all those whose paths she crossed.

Sister, You’ll definitely be remembered, especially as Araceli’s madrina.