Our beloved Tia Maria, who graced this world for a century, has been called home to the Lord.
Tia Maria
Over the years, visiting my tia became a cherished routine. She was the last of the Lopez family on our mother’s side. My cousin Delia and I faithfully continued our visits even when Tia Maria was hospitalized. I hold dear the many humorous stories she shared from her younger days.
My tia had a green thumb, she grew the best lemons and pomegranates. She introduced me to peanut brittle; when I was a child she made a homemade batch, and it was surprisingly delicious. I will never forget the time that our aunt came with bags filled with groceries; she answered our mother’s prayers that day.
When I was in my first year of college I got this crazy notion to color my long, beautiful brown hair black. Mother was displeased with my decision, but my aunt helped me dye my hair jet black.
The Service
The memorial service at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church provided a comforting sense of peace, knowing that Tia Maria received a beautiful blessing before her family. After the service, we gathered for lunch at the home of Ricky (Tia Maria son) daughter’s in Beaumont. Mike and I were on a tight schedule, as we needed to return home for Confirmation rehearsals.
Coming from a family of ten, my mother ensured I had many cousins, with the girls outnumbering the boys in nearly every branch of the family. Needless to say, we had plenty of catching up to do! From there we met up with my brother George and his family, my sister Norma and Maggie her daughter, cousins Nellie and Roxie at Sizzler’s. What a joy to break bread with my family!
The Rehearsal
Even with the calendar marked and times double-checked, I somehow managed to mix it all up. Mike and I found ourselves hurrying to make it to a four o’clock practice, which, in reality, was scheduled for six! When I arrived at the church, I discovered I was the only one there. It turns out I hadn’t read the full text message, which clearly stated “four o’clock tomorrow.” So, I decided to make the most of the unexpected free time by having coffee with friends.
The Sponsors
Both Mike and I had the honor of being sponsors. Our grandson Lucas asked his grandfather to sponsor him, while Cael, one of Lucas’ close friends, chose me. Being a sponsor means guiding and praying for the candidates, a role I cherish deeply. I’ve sponsored others in the past; even though they’ve moved away and we don’t keep in touch, my prayers for them remain unwavering.
One More
As Confirmation day drew near, one of my students, Alice, approached me, asking if I would be her sponsor. Having taught her for two years, it was a joy to say “yes.” Thank God for the rehearsal—between my dyslexia and needing to coordinate two confirmations, I was a bit flustered. But it’s all part of the journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support and guide these beautiful souls.
The Mass
The Confirmation Mass was led by Bishop Timothy Fryer. With his miter and shepherd staff, the Bishop’s grand entrance brought us to our feet. We were all sprinkled with holy water to remind us of our Baptism. Soon the church was filled with incense, representing our prayers being received in heaven.
Chrism Oil
It was time to go up for the anointing of the chrism oil. The chrism, perfumed oil, is consecrated by the bishop. As we walk up to the altar with our candidates, our right hand is placed on the candidate’s right shoulder. Then the Bishop anoints each candidate personally while saying their saint’s name. The candidates chose saints’ names of those they want to emulate or have a special connection. Lucas chose Clement of Rome, Cael chose St. Norbert and Alice took St. Bridget of Kildare.
This part of the ceremony is sacred because the power of the Holy Spirit seals the candidate to Christ.
Why Saints’ Names?
Choosing a saint’s name is Scriptural; Abram’s name was changed to Abraham, which means “father of a multitude” (Gen. 17:1-5). God changed Jacob’s name to Israel, meaning “he strikes with God” (Gen. 32:24-32; Rom. 4:16). Simon also received a new name Peter “rock” (John 1:42). Peter was our first Pope.
Saint Margaret of Scotland
I was 11 years-old when receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. My mother helped me choose a saint, and since my grandmother bore the name Margarita, we settled on Saint Margaret. It wasn’t until we renewed our wedding vows in 2022 that I needed my Confirmation certificate, which brought back memories of Saint Margaret. As I read about her life, particularly her deep commitment to feeding the poor, I understood the profound connection to my chosen saint. For two decades I led a ministry to the homeless. Each month we ventured to Skid Row in Los Angeles carrying 300 lunches to nourish both body and spirit through food and prayer.
Mikos’ Birthday
Mikos’ birthday coincided with Confirmation day. Though an invitation to dine with the bishop was extended to all teachers, my heart chose to celebrate with family. We gathered at our favorite Chinese restaurant, Yang Mings. Because my son has reached the age of 53, I am blessed with 73 years of life!
Dick’s Sporting Goods
On a different note, a challenge arose with a treadmill from Dick’s Sporting Goods. Despite having 854 stores and over 50,100 employees, we faced a month-long ordeal of corporate blunders, with no one willing to solve the dilemma. The treadmill, delivered by two men who spoke neither English nor Spanish, failed from the outset. Following the Confirmation, we returned the 300-pound monstrosity to Dick’s. We borrowed a truck from a friend and it took four people to load up the useless treadmill on to the truck. Though they resisted, my husband Mike stood firm and secured a full refund. Thus, another boycott was added to my list, as Dick’s truly lived up to its name.
My Prayer
Dear Lord, I lift up all the candidates who were confirmed and sealed with the holy chrism oil. May they always be led by the Holy Spirit. And may we, their sponsors, continue to support them in prayer. I also pray for the repose of the soul of my Tia Maria. Amen.
