On Dec. 16, 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced they will eliminate the safety requirement of in-person dispensing in the Risk Evaluation Mitigation Strategy (REMS) for the chemical abortion drug mifepristone. The FDA’s action clears a path for the drug to be dispensed by clinics, medical offices, and hospitals through the use of online pharmacies or drug delivery services.

Growing up, Ruby Hernandez experienced many cherished family traditions, but one of her fondest memories is participating in Posadas at Christmas. Hernandez, 32, a lifelong parishioner at St. Joseph Church in Corpus Christi, prays her three children will someday carry on the same tradition.

Since 2010, January has been declared National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month by presidential proclamation. This is an excellent opportunity for all of us to raise awareness about human trafficking, particularly how this crime can be prevented. 

“Today is all about the birth of Christ. It is a beautiful day for us, where we each receive the greatest gift of all: the gift of Jesus. The Jesus who touches our lives and the Jesus who changes us. Jesus is the gift that never grows old or goes out of fashion,” Father Gutierrez said at the Mother Teresa Shelter on Christmas day.

Our dear Ann passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2021, in Corpus Christi at 90. Born in Graves County, Kentucky to Sophia Edna Fuqua McNeely and Stirling McNeely, Ann grew up in Mayfield, Kentucky. She spent her early years in Cocoa Beach, Florida, later attending the University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida and McMurry University in Abilene, earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and music. Ann taught music in the Austin and Leander area public elementary schools for many years.

Catholic Charities of Corpus Christi hosted the 55th Ecumenical Blessing of the People on Dec. 21.