Following Syracuse’s 86-72 win against Notre Dame on Saturday night in the JMA Wireless Dome, many are wondering: what grades would you give the team?
How would you evaluate the offense? And what marks would you assign to the defense? Finally, what’s your overall grade for the team’s performance?
If you’re having trouble viewing the stats on your mobile device, click here to access them.
Now, our call is to deepen our understanding of that faith. If you are not familiar with the term—or if it sounds vaguely familiar but you cannot exactly place it—**catechesis** is the term we use for religious education or faith formation.
In future posts, we’ll take a closer look at what exactly we mean by the term “catechesis” and explore its origins. For now, it’s important to emphasize that catechesis (religious education, faith formation) is something that is for everyone.
Too often, we identify catechetical formation with children’s learning and thereby think of it as something our kids do on Sundays. Yet, as Christians, we are called to be disciples and, therefore, to be constantly forming ourselves—and allowing ourselves to be formed—in our shared faith. This deeper formation is the next logical step of our journey.
We have spent a year reflecting on the *kerygma*, the proclamation of the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ. We have reflected on God’s love for us that is manifest in creation, persists despite our sinfulness, and offers us redemption through the Incarnation and Paschal mystery of Jesus Christ. This love is made tangible for us in the sacramental life of the Church.
Rather than leaving behind what we have learned, we take it all with us and build on it as a foundation. In this coming year together, we will see that every truth of the faith finds its root in the *kerygma*. When we look closely at the *Catechism of the Catholic Church*, we soon realize that the Incarnation and the Paschal mystery are present around every corner.
Every one of the Church’s teachings is aimed at salvation. The very logic of the entire Catholic faith is the logic of the *kerygma*—it is all Good News!
It is for this reason that catechesis is always *kerygmatic*: the salvific message of the Gospel lies at the heart of every catechetical endeavor. It is also the act of proclaiming the Gospel as an integral part of these endeavors. Every catechist is a Christian witness, and everyone who is catechized is being formed and called to also be a Christian witness.
The vision of the wider Church confirms this truth. Every catechetical document from the Vatican over the last half-century or more has consistently connected catechesis and evangelization.
While we can and do distinguish between an initial proclamation—our first encounter with the Gospel—and the subsequent catechesis that deepens our faith, we also recognize that this deepening is an ongoing conversion. Catechesis must evangelize: the *kerygma* is never left behind.
It is a fundamental truth of the faith, without which none of the other truths matter.
On April 27, 2021, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis adopted a vision of “evangelizing catechesis.” This vision can help us understand the particular ministry of catechesis and what it means to catechize and be catechized in everyday life.
According to this vision, evangelizing catechesis is:
– Rooted in the encounter with Christ in the Holy Spirit
– Proclaiming the *kerygma*
– Accompanying people along the path of conversion
– Giving a systematic exposition of the faith
– Sending out missionary disciples
Let us open our minds to understand and receive the wisdom of the Church so that we may continue to proclaim it to others.
https://themiscellany.org/fidelis-year-2-understand-faith
The U.S. Coast Guard is urgently searching Massachusetts waters for survivors after a commercial fishing vessel carrying seven people, including a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) observer, sank on Friday approximately 25 miles off the coast of Cape Ann.
Coast Guard watchstanders received an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) alert at about 6:50 a.m. local time, registered to the 72-foot commercial fishing vessel Lily Jean. After attempts to contact the boat failed, the Coast Guard issued an urgent marine information broadcast (UMIB).
Responding to the distress signal, the USCG Northeast District deployed an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Air Station Cape Cod and a small boat crew from Station Gloucester to search the area. Additionally, the Coast Guard Cutter Thunder Bay was diverted to assist in the search efforts.
Rescue crews discovered debris near the location where the EPIRB was activated, along with a body and an unoccupied life raft. The Coast Guard confirmed that search and rescue operations will continue.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her sorrow over the tragedy and affirmed the state’s full support. In a statement, she said, “I’m heartbroken over the devastating news out of Gloucester about the sinking of the Lily Jean and have offered our full support to Mayor Lundberg, Harbormaster Lucido, and the Coast Guard. I am praying for the crew, and my heart goes out to their loved ones and all Gloucester fishing families during this awful time.”
Governor Healey emphasized the importance of fishermen and fishing vessels to the history, economy, and culture of Gloucester and Cape Ann, noting that this tragedy is deeply felt across the state.
The boat’s captain, Gus Sanfilippo, and his crew were previously featured in a 2012 episode of the History Channel show *Nor’Easter Men*, which highlighted a fishing expedition in hazardous weather conditions. Sanfilippo, a fifth-generation commercial fisherman, specialized in haddock, lobster, and flounder fishing.
Senator Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, who is a friend of the missing captain, also commented on the situation as search efforts continue.
The Coast Guard and local authorities remain committed to locating survivors and providing support to the families affected by this tragic incident.
https://www.foxnews.com/us/coast-guard-searching-survivors-after-commercial-fishing-boat-sinks-off-massachusetts-1-body-recovered
“This annual effort puts faith into action by supporting all the parishes, schools, and communities all across our state and beyond,” he wrote.
Jacqueline LaPan Edgerton is executive director of the Catholic Community Foundation of South Carolina and the acting head of the Office of Stewardship and Mission Advancement, which spearheads the appeal. She explained that CASC “provides financial support for ministry and outreach support programs throughout the state.”
“We cannot know who Jesus Christ is, or follow his way, or discern his will if we are not well-versed in the Scriptures that contain the prophecies and promises of his arrival,” Bishop Fabre said in his pastoral letter. “Our parishes should be vibrant places where the Word of God is regularly read and studied,” the bishop wrote.
Knowledge of God and his creations is at the root of Catholic beliefs: to know, love, and serve Jesus is paramount to fostering a holy and productive relationship with our brothers and sisters. In giving of ourselves, we come to know the God who came to save us.
We are further encouraged to invite others, including friends and family, to join in and share our faith through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) and help them prepare for reception into the Catholic faith.
Retreats, speaking events, and other diocesan programs further encourage learning and living the Gospel, alongside CASC giving to programs and ministries that help further the faith through good works.
All of these initiatives are encapsulated in the three overarching projects of the appeal: Givers of His Love, Teachers of His Children, and Servants of His People (see sidebar).
### This Year’s Goal: $5.5 Million
The goal for CASC this year is raised to $5.5 million, a 10% increase over the past several years. A number of factors led to the need to increase the goal, including the growth of parish communities, an increase in the number of seminarians under formation, and continued expansion of diocesan ministries and programs.
The diocese consists of about 250,000 Catholics in nearly 100,000 households. It is served by 113 diocesan, 46 religious, and 22 missionary priests in 96 parishes and 20 missions. There are also 32 diocesan schools, 16 campus ministries, and 85 youth ministry programs across the state, plus eight offices for Catholic Charities of South Carolina.
The Diocese of Charleston is unique in that it encompasses an entire state.
“As we continue to welcome so many new seminarians, open the doors of Catholic education to more families, and expand our ministerial outreach across the state, the need for your support has never been greater,” the bishop wrote.
### Supporting Catholic Education
Shaileen Riginos, associate superintendent for the Office of Catholic Schools, expressed gratitude for the support received from CASC.
“The Catholic Appeal of S.C. has a profound impact on Catholic education throughout our diocese, strengthening our ability to form young disciples of Christ,” Riginos said.
“Through tuition assistance, the appeal enables Catholic families to provide their children with a faith-centered education rooted in Gospel values. Additionally, the appeal empowers our schools to address critical needs from science labs and facility upgrades to curriculum resources and technology, allowing each school to fulfill its strategic mission in service to its unique community.”
By answering Christ’s call to carry forth his mission and be good stewards, supporters of the Catholic Appeal of South Carolina are lighting the way for our Church to remain ever-present across the Palmetto State.
As we read in Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for the good works that God has prepared in advance, that we should live in them.”
“I am overjoyed with the success of last year’s Catholic Appeal of South Carolina, and I am encouraged to see that there are so many families that are on fire with zeal for the Catholic faith,” Bishop Fabre said.
“Our diocese is experiencing exponential growth in our vocations, in building Catholic schools, and in our visible presence in society. Please join together to continue what the great saints have dedicated their lives to building. God bless you and thank you for your participation in this year’s appeal.”
Every gift makes a difference. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of others and in our Church family.
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## GOALS OF OUR APPEAL
### GIVERS OF HIS LOVE
This facet includes Multi-Ethnic Ministries, catechetical and evangelization programs, communications, Youth and Child Protection Services, and Family Life ministries, along with parish outreach programs that focus on the homeless and those experiencing food insecurity.
### TEACHERS OF HIS CHILDREN
CASC supports increased access to affordable, Christ-centered education through grants to Catholic schools and tuition assistance. The appeal also dedicates funds to over 20 college campus ministries across South Carolina, as well as FOCUS missionaries, chaplains, and campus ministers.
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## GIVING OPTIONS
– A one-time gift
– A pledge payable over 10 months
– An automatically recurring gift that continues until you elect otherwise
—
## DONATE
Visit [charlestondiocese.org/catholic-appeal](https://charlestondiocese.org/catholic-appeal) or fill out the envelope in your parish pew.
Thank you for your generosity and commitment to the Catholic Appeal of South Carolina!
https://themiscellany.org/you-make-difference-annual-catholic-appeal
It’s been just over a year since a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) officer and his wife shot a man who they believed posed a direct threat to them and another woman. The shooting occurred in the 700 block of Sixth Street, and the investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
### Investigation Status
Attempts to obtain updates on the case from the Clark County District Attorney’s office via email were not returned. A brief response from LVMPD directed inquiries to their website, which provides information on officer-involved shootings.
According to the site, the decision letter from the Clark County District Attorney’s office remains pending. Additionally, the Force Investigation Team (FIT) report is awaiting the completion of both criminal and administrative investigations. Once finalized, these reports will be made fully available to the public, except for any information deemed confidential.
Also pending is the Office of Internal Oversight (OIO) Review. This internal review will cover key conclusions and outcomes related to the use of deadly force through the Critical Incident Review Process. The review may include any changes or additions to policies, procedures, tactics, or training that result from the incident. Once completed, the OIO Review will be accessible to the community.
### What Happened
According to LVMPD Captain Kurt McKenzie during a press briefing held four hours after the incident on January 24, 2025:
> “The off-duty officer and his wife were inside their residence when they heard a commotion coming from the backyard of a neighbor’s residence. The off-duty officer went outside and observed a male mounted on top of a female, punching and strangling her at the same time.”
McKenzie further explained:
> “The off-duty officer gave numerous commands to the male to stop and not come any closer ‘or we will shoot.’ At which time, the male continued to advance on them, causing the off-duty officer and his wife to shoot the subject, striking him. He was later pronounced deceased in the front yard.”
The officer involved was identified as 48-year-old Cesar Ibarra, a Metro officer since 2005, assigned at the time to the Homeland Security Division, Airport Bureau. He resides in Boulder City. The man who was shot and killed was later identified as 45-year-old Jeremiah Boshard.
### Moving Forward
Once LVMPD completes its investigation, a fact-finding review will be conducted. This review is open to the public.
According to a 2021 Las Vegas Review-Journal article, the investigation process involves a police detective compiling a report on the use of force, which is then submitted to the district attorney’s office.
The district attorney assigns the case to a senior prosecutor within the major violators unit. This prosecutor briefs a team of about a dozen senior prosecutors on the details of the case.
Before the review, the Clark County manager selects a presiding officer and an ombudsman—both chosen from a list preapproved by the Clark County Commission. The ombudsman represents the interests of the public and the family of the deceased.
During the review, the ombudsman may ask questions, followed by an opportunity for the public to submit proposed questions in writing. The presiding officer reviews all submitted questions and may exclude any that are irrelevant or redundant.
Importantly, the district attorney’s office does not make any immediate decisions following the review. Within approximately two weeks, however, the district attorney will announce whether charges will be filed against the officer or officers involved.
A report outlining the final decision will then be posted on the Clark County website.
—
This case remains under close watch by the community as the investigation and review processes continue. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
https://bouldercityreview.com/news/investigation-into-officer-involved-shooting-continues-116542/
A CapMetro bus driver was arrested and charged in connection with an incident that occurred in October.
The incident involved a would-be passenger who sustained an injury after the driver closed the bus doors on his arm.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, this action led to the passenger’s injury and subsequent legal charges against the driver.
https://www.kxan.com/news/crime/austin-bus-driver-accused-of-shutting-door-on-person-dragging-them-affidavit-says/
Half Sword is an immersive, physics-based medieval combat simulator that offers players a unique experience of becoming a commoner-turned-knight, fighting brutal tournaments in 15th-century Europe.
With innovative gameplay mechanics, you can wield your weapon with precision using your mouse, feeling the intensity of each clash as you ascend the ranks to face formidable opponents.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history with our meticulously crafted collection of historically accurate arms and armor. Experience a diverse and vibrant array of armor from history, offering players an authentic glimpse into the past.
https://www.gamespot.com/games/half-sword/
It’s one thing to plow the streets both during and after a snowstorm, but it’s another thing entirely to remove the snow completely.
That’s exactly what the Department of Public Works is doing in the city of Hudson.
https://www.news10.com/news/special-snow-removal-for-hudsons-streets/
The game is a mystery adventure centered around the intriguing concept of a historical figure who has secretly bequeathed a fictitious estate. The story unravels through the drama that unfolds among the characters as they confront an enigma that reaches into their modern world.
Set in an ancient castle in 1981—36 years after Hitler’s death—the tale follows 18-year-old protagonist Noah. Determined not to become like his father, Noah is still uncertain about the person he wants to be.
Noah participates in a mysterious auction held at the old castle. As someone living in the 1980s, he grapples with the lingering absurdity of the trauma left behind by the war. Through this journey, he uncovers hidden truths buried deep within those affected by the conflict.
Ultimately, Noah draws closer to unveiling the big secret that his father has been concealing all along.
https://www.gamespot.com/games/dark-auction/
A man charged with two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder in connection with a March 2022 shooting at a Fairfield convenience store was found not guilty of those charges earlier this month. The jury ruled him guilty only on a single count of attempted voluntary manslaughter.
Trine Daniel Martinez, 29, of Fairfield, admitted to driving to the 7-Eleven store in the 200 block of East Tabor Avenue at 5 a.m. on March 13 to buy three Modelo brand beers. He also admitted to being armed with a Glock 17 semi-automatic handgun when he entered the store in the pre-dawn hours. However, Martinez claimed that his actions were in self-defense after being aggressively confronted by three or four men.
The jury returned its verdict on Wednesday. Martinez is scheduled to return to the courtroom of Judge William Pendergast on February 2 for a bail review and to discuss a pretrial services report from probation. The maximum sentence for attempted voluntary manslaughter is 5.5 years.
In addition to these charges, Martinez still faces allegations of assaulting a correctional officer while in jail in October 2024. He is set to appear again before Judge Pendergast in a court trial—where the judge, rather than a jury, will decide the matter—on February 26 at 8:30 a.m.
According to prosecutors, Martinez was accused of shooting and killing Earl “Wayne” Wyatt III, 44, of Fairfield, and Damion Davis, 36, of Suisun City, in or near the parking lot of the 7-Eleven on East Tabor Avenue. He was also charged with the attempted murder of Victor Walters, then 28, of Suisun City, in the same area. The jury, however, found him guilty only of the attempted voluntary manslaughter of Walters.
Deputy District Attorney Bill Ainsworth led the prosecution.
Court documents reveal that Martinez turned himself in to the Fairfield Police Department and was arrested on March 14, one day after the shootings. Surveillance camera footage at the crime scene identified him as the suspect. Martinez did not make a statement after his arrest and was accompanied by criminal defense attorney Daniel J. Russo of Vallejo.
At trial, Martinez was represented by criminal defense attorney Thomas Maas.
https://www.thereporter.com/2026/01/26/jury-acquits-suspect-of-murders-rules-guilty-of-attempted-manslaughter/
