Catholic Connection February 2011

VOL. 20, NO.7

FEBRUARY 2011

Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal 2011

Commemorating

25 Years as a Diocese

INSIDE: 2010 ANNUAL DIOCESAN REPORT

From the Editor Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Regular Contributors Bishop Michael Duca Kim Long Fr. Rothell Price Rosalba Quiroz Dianne Rachal

Jessica Rinaudo Christine Rivers Roxie Tabor Mike Van Vranken John Mark Willcox

Featured Contributors Jean Dresley John Thavis Thomas Kennedy Sr. Marilyn Vassallo Fr. Matthew Long John Vining Katie Sciba Editorial Board Dianne Rachal Cathy Cobb Christine Rivers Rev. Charles Glorioso Christie Weeks Kim Long John Mark Willcox Kelly Powell The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Service Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport. Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

For a free subscription, address changes or article submissions: EMAIL: jrinaudo@dioshpt.org WRITE: Catholic Connection The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 CALL: 318-868-4441

OR 800-256-1542 FAX: 318-868-4609 WEBSITE: www.dioshpt.org The Catholic Connection is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor ou will notice that in this month’s issue of the Catholic Connection we do not have an article from Bishop Michael Duca. At press time he was out of the country on a pilgrimage. His articles will resume again with our March issue.

You may also notice that this issue is devoted largely to our Annual Report (pg. 10-17). This year we’ve included photos of all the people working for the diocese who strive to work hard for you. The Annual Appeal, which also kicks off this month, supports many of these ministries including this publication.

Please take the time to read through this report to learn more about what your donations support.

February is nationally recognized as Catholic Press month. This year marks the Catholic Press Association’s 100th year. During this month each year, dioceses across the country take time to support and recognize the work of Catholic writers, editors and photographers who work throughout the year to bring you Catholic news. I

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hope during this month that you keep the Catholic Press in your mind and prayers and consider donating to the Annual Appeal to support our local monthly publication.

And finally, we still have our 2011 Diocesan Directories for sale! For the first time ever, Bishop Duca has asked that we make these publications available to everyone, not just our parishes. The $10 fee reimburses our cost of printing and pays for your shipping. Directories are also available for purchase at the Catholic Center.

Thank you for your continued support!

2011 Diocesan Directories Available for Order Directories are $10, including S&H. Please send checks made out to Diocese of Shreveport and this form to: Diocese of Shreveport Attn: Diocesan Directories 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 There is a limited supply and they will be sold on a first come, first serve basis.

I would like to purchase _______ copies at $10 each.

Our Diocese is recognized by the Board of Immigration Appeals as a Non-Profit Organization capable of giving Immigration Legal Advice. We offer Immigration Professional Services to LowIncome Families. To find out if you or someone you know qualifies for an Immigration benefit, please contact Mrs. Rosalba Quiroz at 1-800256-1542, ext. 265 or 318-219-7265 or email rquiroz@dioshpt.org

Name: _______________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________ City, State and Zip: ____________________________________ Phone Number: _______________________________________

February 2011

Contents

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9

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19

From the Editor by Jessica Rinaudo............................................ 2

School News..................................................................................8

Bishop Michael Duca’s February 2011 Schedule....................... 3

25 Years of Giving: Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal

by John Mark Willcox..............................................................9

Catholic Charities Moves! by Jean Dresley................................. 3 Celebrating Love as a Catholic Wife by Katie Sciba................... 4 Diocesan Youth Rally Coming in March by John Vining............. 4 Liturgy Lines: The Mass by Dianne Rachal.................................. 5 Diocese Celebrated World Day for Consecrated Life

by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo.......................................................... 5 The Value of Catholic Education by Fr. Matthew Long............... 6 Pro-Life Ministry Update by Roxie Tabor........................................ 6 Men’s Discernment Retreat by Thomas Kennedy.......................... 7 Hope in the Lord by Mike Van Vranken..........................................7

2010 Annual Diocesan Report................................................10-17 Hispanic Corner by Rosalba Quiroz............................................ 18 May 1 Beatification Set for Pope John Paul II After Miracle Approved by John Thavis..................................................... 19 Haitians Pray One Year After Quake by Catholic News Service........19 Around the Diocese..................................................................... 20 Saint Margaret by Kim Long........................................................ 21 Upcoming Events................................................................................22 February 2011 Calendar...............................................................23

Bishop Michael Duca’s February Schedule FEB. 2 Departmental Directors’ Meeting; Catholic Center; 9:30 AM FEB. 3 Eastern Deanery Appeal Reception; Monroe; 6:00 PM FEB. 4 Eastern Deanery All Schools Mass; Our Lady of Fatima Church, Monroe; 9:00 AM

FEB. 10 Southern Deanery Appeal Reception; St. John the Baptist Church, Many; 6:00 PM FEB. 13 Support Group for Bishops Meeting; all day event FEB. 14-16 Knights of Columbus 23rd Bioethics Workshop for Bishops; Dallas

FEB. 4-5 Music Workshops, Catholic Center

FEB. 19 Retreat for Lectors; Catholic Center; 9:00 AM

FEB. 5 Mass in Celebration of Black History Month; St. Matthew Church, Monroe; 4:00 PM

FEB. 20 Confirmation; St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Ruston; 9:30 AM

FEB. 6 Catholic Scouting Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans; 11:00 AM FEB. 7 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds; St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Ruston; 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM FEB. 8 St. Francis Medical Center New Board Members’ Orientation Program; Baton Rouge FEB. 8 Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Meeting; Baton Rouge; 10:00 AM

FEB. 21 Catholic Medical Students Association Luncheon; LSU Health Sciences Center; Shreveport; 12:00 PM FEB. 22 St. Frederick High School Dalton Trust Board of Directors’ Meeting; Monroe; 12:00 PM FEB. 23 St. Francis Medical Center Board of Directors Meeting; Monroe; 11:30 AM FEB. 26 Confirmation; Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Farmerville; 4:00 PM FEB. 27 Confirmation, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans; 11:00 AM

Catholic Charities Moves!

by Jean Dresley, Executive Director of Catholic Charities he offices of Catholic Charities of Shreveport are now in their “new” home, the former rectory and parish offices of St. Catherine of Siena Church in Cedar Grove. Jean Dresley has been working out of the Catholic Center since August, when she was hired as the first director. Clients began appearing almost immediately. Nearly 100 people were served within the first few months.

However, space for growth was limited.

“We are thankful for the opportunity to continue the services started by the parishioners of St. Catherine’s and their wonderful history of ministry to the poor, and to expand those services to all in need in our diocese,” Dresley said.

“We are also thankful to Bishop Duca for providing us with these offices, so that we will have the space to offer more services and to reach more people in need.”

Initially, Catholic Charities is working to develop four main areas of assistance including emergency assistance to individuals and families, immigration assistance, disaster response and training for parish social ministry. Additional services will be added later, depending on the areas of most need.

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Mrs. Right … * has a strong relationship with Christ * should be generally happy, with a positive self-image and outlook on life * has self-control * is careful with finances * keeps good friendships and relationships * should be nurturing and a good mother * should be supportive and encouraging * should have dreams and goals that her husband can help her fulfill * should pursue hobbies It’s true – each point could easily take up its own article, but the one that clenches it all is at the top of the list: a strong relationship with Christ. There lies what it takes to be a Catholic wife and without it, the rest is impossible.

Katie Sciba with her son, Liam, and husband Being a Catholic wife is being happy, Andrew. humble, and holy, and the key to all he “Mrs. Right List” was whispered three is in Christ. Being a Catholic wife is loving God, husband and family with over in Bible studies and passed everything you are, which leads to a through dorms at Benedictine College. As a bright-eyed freshman eager wealth of happiness. A Catholic wife stands next to her family in everything, to meet “the one,” I quickly glanced over it thinking that checking these off couldn’t especially faith, and is ready to happily be too hard and that I had it made. There’s serve them.

Women who think more often of being no doubt that I’m still optimistic, but now adored than of adoring Christ can never as a married woman with a family, I size be satisfied.

I recently read a quotation up the list as a daily challenge.

that I think nails it – A goddess wants to be adored, a humble wife loves her family with all her might. Behold: the secret of Catholic wifehood, a pretty intimidating mountain to scale, but isn’t that where true joy is found? We’ve all heard that “God loves a cheerful giver,” and husbands and wives do too – just ask!

Though the endeavor toward keeping Christ close is tough to pursue day-to-day, the more you love and serve Him, the more you want to continue and the more He calls you to do so.

For a Catholic, there’s no better way than frequenting the Sacraments, most importantly the Mass. The Eucharist is the “source and summit of the Christian faith, (Lumen Gentium 11)” making it the best place to start and keep going; Confession allows us to purge ourselves of sins that stand in the way of loving others. We’re blessed in our diocese to have daily Mass plus ample opportunities for Confession, which translates to abundant graces for the asking, graces that are in demand in marriage.

During February, there is big emphasis on love and it’s still early enough to set some New Year’s resolutions. Take the chance to be inspired by the “Mrs. Right List” and see what you can do to love God, your husband and your family with everything you’ve got.

The teens will be challenged by great speakers, great music and great mentors

by John Vining, Director of Youth and to live for Jesus.

Young Adult Ministries Luke 9:23 tells us,“If anyone wishes to eflecting on the New Year is come after me, he something I generally take time must deny himself to do. This year it is no different. and take up his cross It has been such a blessing to labor daily and follow me.” with so many faith-filled believers in What a powerful and our diocese. I’m really beyond words to awesome statement measure it. Because of the devotion to that is! I can think Christ of those that I have met, we will be of no better Lenten able to hold a Diocesan Youth Rally on theme for all of us.

March 12 at LSU-S in Shreveport.

Following Christ is not easy, but it is Christ lovingly gave us the Church rewarding. and we want to give back to him during Rascal Flatts had a song a while back this Lenten season. The Youth Rally is called “Bless the Broken Road.” It talks really much more than a rally, it’s an about straying off the right path (road), opportunity to reach our young people but in the end, God used that broken through Christ and enrich their Catholic road to bless the person in the song. That heritage. Everything we do as a diocese is what God does! He blesses because He ought to reflect that. Our goal is die to loves. He rewards all the steps of faith we self and give back. take in Him. It may be scary to try to die

to self, but we want our teens to know it’s really worth it. Communicating God’s love is what we are endeavoring to do.

I hope and pray that you will join our efforts by getting the word out. Please check our web site in the coming days as we plan to bring you more information on this special event (www.dioshpt.org) For more information, contact the Youth office at 318-868-4441 or jvining@ dioshpt.org.

Celebrating Love as a Catholic Wife by Katie Sciba

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Diocesan Youth Rally Coming in March

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Liturgy Lines: The Mass

Diocese Celebrated World Day for Consecrated Life

by Dianne Rachal, Director of Worship

by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo, CSJ, Director, Office of Religious

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ur diocese has been preparing for a few years for the new Mass texts to be implemented on the First Sunday of Advent this year. The Diocesan Liturgical Conferences have included the knowledgeable liturgists and theologians Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, Dr. Nathan Mitchell, Msgr. Kevin Irwin and Msgr. James P. Moroney. Liturgy Lines articles in the Catholic Connection have covered topics ranging from a series on music in the liturgy based on the USCCB’s “Sing to the Lord,” to a 10-part series on the new translation entitled “Come, Let Us Worship” (still available on the Office of Worship website, www. dioshpt.org) and most recently, a series on decorum at Mass.

Formation events on the new texts have been held for priests, deacons, music ministers, parishes and Catholic organizations. A Greco course on the new translation is being offered in the western deanery now with plans to present this course in the eastern and southern deaneries. Our diocese is on track with catechesis and well positioned to begin using the new texts on November 27, 2011.

This article inaugurates a new series of articles on the Mass. The source is Msgr. James P. Moroney’s book, The Mass Explained. These articles will explore what the Mass is, what we do at Mass, and examine the four parts of the Mass: the Introductory Rites, the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and the Concluding Rites.

Today we call the Mass the Eucharist.

It was previously referred to as the Lord’s Supper or the Breaking of the Bread or the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The Mass is the center, the source and summit of the entire Christian life. It is the principal office of the priest and the chief responsibility of each of the baptized.

The Mass is the prayer of the Church, and all of the faithful are encouraged to participate in it with understanding. The Eucharist is to be celebrated with great faith.

St. Jerome said that the whole spiritual wealth of the Church—namely Christ, our Paschal Lamb, is contained in the Mass. On the night before He died for us, the Lord Jesus Christ left the Mass to us as an inheritance. It is the key to understanding and participating in his great saving Paschal death and resurrection.

The opening words of Pope Paul VI’s encyclical on the Eucharist, Mysterium Fidei (The Mystery of Faith) are: “The Mystery of Faith, that is the ineffable gift of the Eucharist which she has received from Christ her spouse as a pledge of his boundless love, the Catholic Church has ever guarded devoutly as a most precious treasure.”

The next article of this series will look at where the Mass came from.

From: Msgr. James P. Moroney, The Mass Explained, Catholic Book Publishing Corp., New Jersey, 2008, and Lawrence J. Johnson, The Mystery of Faith, FDLC, Washington, D.C., 2003.

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On Sunday, January 23, 2011, The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans hosted the annual Jubilee Celebration for men and women religious serving in the Diocese of Shreveport. Bishop Michael G. Duca was the main celebrant. Members of Centenary College joined the Cathedral choir in providing a beautiful choral background for this event.

In 1997, Pope John Paul II instituted World Day for Consecrated Life as a universal event to celebrate the call to religious life. This event in our diocese coincides with the celebration conducted in Rome this year by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. Our Jubilarians this year are Sister Mary Blandine Fleming, CCVI (60 years), Sister Pasquina Tamagnini, OLS (60 years), Sister Angelita Laws, OSF (50 years) and Sister John Mary Jackson, SSF (50 years).

Priests, deacons, religious and parishioners in the diocese attended this celebration. Bishop Duca also extended a special invitation to students in our religious education programs and Catholic schools.

The Eucharistic Liturgy began at 5:30 p.m., followed by a reception at the multi-room in the Cathedral School.

This was an excellent opportunity to encourage vocation awareness, as well as celebrate the jubilees and anniversaries of religious serving in our diocese.

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The Value of Catholic Education by Fr. Matthew Long

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n November 23 the St. Frederick High School Varsity Boys Soccer team played West Ouachita High School. As usual, when our boys are on the soccer field they play like champions.

They scored goal after goal and continued to defend against West Ouachita’s attempts to score. Even if they got a shot Daniel Showers, our goalie, would not let anything past.

As the time ticked away the Ouachita coach finally saw the futility of trying to score a goal and he put in his second string to give them some experience.

West Ouachita does a wonderful thing and allows a special needs student to be a part of the team. This young man raced upon the field, full of excitement to be in a varsity soccer game.

It was in this moment that the value of Catholic education revealed itself to everyone present. As we watched the special needs player began moving the ball down the field towards our goal. He was able to get past our defenders even though he was moving slowly. Then he had his shot and kicked the ball towards

the goal. I watched as Daniel dove and missed blocking the shot. West Ouachita had finally scored a goal. The fans for both teams broke out in thunderous applause and the smile lighting up the face of the special needs player told the whole story as he loudly told his teammates, “That’s how it’s done.”

Later I had the opportunity to speak with Nicholas Leehy, whose entire education has been in the Catholic School system in Monroe. He was proud of what he and his team had done. It only took them a moment to make the decision to allow the young man to score. He and all of his teammates recognized that it was the right thing to do, because there are

some things more important than the final score in a game.

These young men allowed the characters formed in the classrooms of Fatima, Jesus the Good Shepherd and St. Fred’s to help them make a quick decision; a decision that was more about another than themselves; a decision that made the life of one young man who struggles everyday to fit in, feel like he was the best amongst his peers. It is in moments like these that I thank the good God for allowing our Catholic Schools to prosper and thrive because I know they make the world a better place by making the young men and women who attend them better people.

Pro-Life Ministry Update

by Roxie Tabor anuary was a busy month for pro-life in Louisiana. The first Louisiana Life March was held on the steps of the Capital on Saturday January 22nd, the 38th anniversary of Roe vs. Wade.

It brought together people who respect and work for “Life” from all parts of the state to affirm the “Gospel of Life”. Many people from the Diocese of Shreveport participated.

Next month, Lent begins on March 9 and offers us the opportunity to utilize fasting and prayer to not only enrich our own spiritual life journey, but also to apply our efforts to the improvement of life for everyone from conception to natural death. Please consider pro-life when you plan your Lenten devotions and sacrifices.

This month the United States Conference of Bishops offers us another set of intercessions to include in our daily prayers. As Catholics we have seen the power of prayer in so many ways. This can be a year when our prayers support others to affirm pro-life principles.

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(CNS/Karen Callaway, Catholic New World)

February Intentions for Life: February 6: For those who are hungry, oppressed, or homeless: Teach us to care for them so they may experience the warmth of God’s love; We pray to the Lord.

February 20: For the youth and young adults of this parish: That they be strengthened in their commitment to chastity by the knowledge that God’s Holy Spirit dwells within them; We pray to the Lord.

February 13: For scientists and doctors: May God guide their work, so that it always contributes to the well-being of the person and never involves the manipulation or destruction of human lives; We pray to the Lord.

February 27: For expectant mothers: May they await the birth of their child with serenity and trust that God will help them through any financial or medical difficulties; We pray to the Lord.

Men’s Discernment Retreat by Thomas Kennedy

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he second “Men for Christ” vocational discernment retreat for the Diocese of Shreveport concluded on Sunday, January 9 as snow and ice began to blanket Northern Louisiana. Though the weather was gloomy, each retreatant returned home encouraged and equipped for the next phases of our discernment journeys.

This year’s retreat master was Fr. Jeffery Bayhi, a priest and former Vocations Director for the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

Fr. Bayhi was assisted by Sam Alzheimer of Vianney Vocations, a ministry currently assisting our diocese to maximize its outreach to individuals discerning their vocations. Fourteen men registered for our retreat at the Catholic Center.

The retreatants were of diverse backgrounds – some in school and others in careers. Our retreat included presentations from Fr. Bayhi, our own vocations director Fr. David Richter, and Seminarian Jerry Daigle, Jr. Opportunities for prayer from the Divine Office, as well as a special Rosary for vocational discernment, Holy Hours, Masses and

Hope in the Lord

by Mike Van Vranken

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he Bible tells us if we hope in the Lord, we will find mercy and happiness. Paul tells us Jesus Christ is our hope and we have hope in eternal life. The word hope is used throughout scripture in both the Old and New Testaments. And, while it is an every day word in our vocabulary, it might serve us well to try to understand its biblical meaning.

You might have heard someone say:

A retreat attendee kneels before the Blessed Sacrament. (Sam Alzheimer, Vianney Vocations).

moments for private prayer and reflection comprised our time together. Important to each of us who attended the retreat were the occasions for us to get to know one another and share our stories and thoughts with each other.

Fr. Bayhi was an excellent communicator who shared personal anecdotes and his extensive ministry experience. Primarily he challenged us to receive God’s will in our lives as the Blessed Virgin Mary received it at the Annunciation. He reminded us that the

Blessed Virgin Mary knew very little about her future when she accepted her vocation of being the Mother of God. A priest’s life, like hers, is filled with difficulty and great joy. Fr. Bayhi challenged us to be open to God’s will and bravely respond to his call.

On behalf of the retreatants we wish to thank everyone who assisted in making this retreat a challenging and worthwhile experience.

Please continue to pray for an increase of vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life in our diocese.

“I hope it doesn’t rain today.” What they probably meant was: “I do not want it to rain today, but maybe it will and maybe it won’t.” In other words, that word hope is really used as a desire. The desire, in this example, is that it doesn’t rain today.

But, biblical hope is different.

The Hebrew definition implies the “expectation of an outcome.” It can also mean to “wait on the expected outcome.”

The Greek definition includes a meaning of “joyful and confident expectation,” or “full confidence in an outcome.” Do you see the difference in how we use the word hope and how the Bible authors saw hope?

Biblical hope is not a desire for something.

It is a great expectation for something.

To have hope in the Lord means to have a joyful and confident expectation in the Lord and in all of his promises. With that in mind, let’s apply it to a Bible story we all know.

At the end of Matthew’s gospel, Jesus proclaims that all authority in heaven and earth has been given to him. He then tells the 11 to go, make disciples, baptize and teach all that He has commanded. He ends the conversation promising that He will be

with us always, even to the end of the age.

What does it mean to have hope in that promise?

He starts by saying that all authority in heaven and earth has been given to Him. He then affirms that He will be with us always. If all authority is with Him, and He is with us, then He brings his authority when He is with us as well. To have hope (great expectation) that Jesus is with us and He has brought all of his authority with Him, should make us jump for joy.

We have hope that He and all of His authority are with us to help us bring Him to others. We have great expectation that He and all of His authority are with us in times of trouble. We have joyful and confident expectation that He and all of His authority are with us to love, forgive, feed, shelter and comfort our fellow brothers and sisters.

We do not hope in the Lord thinking maybe He is with us, or maybe He isn’t.

We hope in the Lord knowing and expecting that He and His authority are with us always. That confidence should in turn give us hope in everything we do today.

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School News 3

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2 1. St. John Berchmans School Raises Money to Assist Student

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t. John Berchmans Catholic School is actively fundraising to construct an elevator in order to provide an equal school environment for student, Hannah Pham, who suddenly became paralyzed last year due to a rare neurological disorder called Transverse Myelitis, which affects only one in a million people.

Today Hannah is in the first grade surrounded by her friends at St. John’s whom she calls family. She makes terrific grades and is independent in every academic aspect, except that she must be carried upstairs by relatives on enrichment days. On occasion, Hannah must remain in the classroom if a relative is not able to take her upstairs. Without an elevator, Hannah will not be able to remain at St. John’s because our 2nd - 8th grade classrooms are located on the second floor. It is our hope to raise enough funds to execute the elevator project this summer so Hannah will be able to continue her education at St. Johns.

For more information on an upcoming fundraiser, see page 22 of this issue.

4 level against other local students with the winner moving on to the state level later this winter.

4. St. Frederick High School Spends Day in Reflection

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n January 3, the first day back to school after Christmas break, we did something a little different at St. Frederick High School. We began the day with Mass in the Chapel of Saints Mary and Daniel and then we processed across the street to the First United Methodist Church for a day of reflection.

We spent the day learning what it means to be members of the Body of Christ. We were led in our reflection by Fr. Christian Raab, OSB, a Benedictine monk of St. Meinrad Archabbey. Fr. Peter Mangum, Rector of the Cathedral and Chaplain of Loyola College Prep, Fr. David Richter, Vocation Director for the Diocese of Shreveport, and Mr. John Vining, Director of Youth and Young Adults for the Diocese of Shreveport, also joined us to facilitate breakout sessions after each conference.

Our focus of the day was on Living as the Body of Christ.

The three conferences were on Becoming the Body of Christ, 2. Our Lady of Fatima School Visited Elderly Being the Body of Christ, and Bearing the Body of Christ. ur Lady of Fatima PreK4 classes visited St. Joseph Nursing We were reminded that prayer, the Eucharist and the Holy Home during the holidays. They sang Christmas carols and Spirit are central in helping us to “Become the Body of Christ.” spread holiday cheer to the residents.

In the conference on “Being the Body of Christ” we looked closely at unity, inclusiveness and communication and on 3. St. Joseph School Names Students of the Year how each of these help us to be Christ in the world. The third conference, “Bearing the Body of Christ,” reminded us that t. Joseph School has selected its Students of the Year for we each have an important role in carrying out the mission of the 2010-11 school year. Fifth grader Samantha Mays and Christ in the world. The breakout sessions that followed helped eighth grader Anna Caroline Hutlas were announced as this all of us to explore more deeply the conferences that were year’s winners on December 17th at the school’s weekly Mass.

Miss Mays and Miss Hutlas will go on to compete at the regional presented to us.

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25 Years of Giving:

2011 Annual Appeal

by John Mark Willcox, Director of Development

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or 25 years, your Annual Appeal has played a significant role in assisting our diocese in fulfilling its mission to serve others through Christian stewardship. Millions of dollars have been raised from our diocesan faithful to do so much for so many and shepherd our diocese through two and a half decades of Catholic leadership and care for our region of Louisiana.

This year is no different, as our diocese moves to provide a new and broader legacy of leadership, assistance and charity to the people that dwell within our 16 civil parishes encompassing 14,110 square miles. During a tough economy, and in an area of our nation less than 5% Catholic, the generous people of our diocese provided over 1.2 million dollars in Annual Appeal pledge payments last year. As remarkable as these numbers are,

the need only continues to grow.

“I am truly humbled by the consistent generosity shown to our Appeal by the people of this diocese,” comments Bishop Michael Duca. “We have so much to celebrate in our twenty-five years since our creation as a diocese by Pope John Paul II. My hope is that more and more area Catholics will choose to joyfully participate in this annual rite of giving outside the normal parish boundary.

Each gift provided to our Appeal causes and programs is truly important and makes a real difference and I am praying more and more Catholics within our diocese choose to get charitably involved in Appeal support.”

This combined spirit of stewardship is an Appeal hallmark, and helped create the Office of Catholic Charities in

August of last year with the mission of helping meet the needs of our poor and vulnerable neighbors more effectively.

Almost immediately, Catholic Charities began assisting scores of needy people from a wide variety of locations within the diocese.

It is also important to remember that your Appeal donation helps fund campus ministry, providing outreach and strong programs to Catholic students attending Grambling, Louisiana Tech, LSUShreveport, ULM Monroe and Centenary College. “These young adults represent the future of our faith community,” notes Bishop Duca. “We cannot lose sight of how important a Catholic presence among our institutions of higher learning truly is. These are the women and men who will assume parish leadership positions in the very near future, and we need to keep them connected to their Catholic faith tradition.”

Those Appeal programs and ministries you have come to know and support over the years also remain a vital part of how our Annual Appeal helps define who we are as Catholic Christians. Care for our retired priests, education of our children through our Catholic School system and adult education via Greco Institute are suppored by the Appeal.

Pro-life ministries, care for our prison population, service to the poor through St. Vincent de Paul and providing for the future of this local Church through support of our seminarians all remain part of our Appeal’s mission. The very publication you are now reading, free of a subscription fee, will also continue to be funded through your Appeal gifts.

Your Appeal also helps serve our growing Hispanic population while continuing to provide safe environments for our children and young people

through the Virtus Protecting God’s Children program which remains active throughout our diocese. Partial funding for our renewed Diaconate Program will also be provided through our Appeal as dozens of men have entered into a new round of this four-year program designed to offer a comprehensive approach to increasing our number of ordained men who follow their call to serve the Church.

In surveying the past successes of our Appeal, Bishop Duca can only marvel at what has been accomplished in the name of Christ. “This powerful tradition of stewardship among our people is remarkable”, he comments, “but there remains so much to be done and there are new and exciting avenues of ministry that require both our attention and our financial support. The possibilities are certainly in front of us, and I am excited about what is ahead of us in the next 25 years of the Diocese of Shreveport.”

Appeal Sunday occurs this month on February 13th. Take advantage of Appeal giving opportunities on that weekend of worship, or simply use the 2011 Appeal Pledge Card (found on page 22) to make your pledge to this year’s campaign. May God bless you for your generosity!

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Catholic Center Offices 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, Louisiana 71104

Diocese of Shreveport 2010 Annual Report

Most Reverend Michael G. Duca Bishop Very Reverend Rothell Price Vicar General & Moderator of the Curia Mrs. Christine Rivers Chancellor & Archives Mr. Randy G. Tiller Director, Office of Mission Effectiveness Mrs. Jill Braniff Director, Office of Business Affairs Sister Marilyn Vassallo, CSJ Director, Office of Canonical Services Sister Carol Shively, OSU Superintendent, Catholic Schools Mr. John Mark Willcox Director, Offices of Stewardship and Communications Reverend Patrick J. Madden Director, Greco Institute Mrs. Rosalba Quiroz Director, Office of Hispanic Ministry Deacon Michael Straub Director, Office of Human Resources Ms. Patricia Pillors Director, Office of Information Systems Management Deacon Clary Nash Director, Office of the Permanent Diaconate Mrs. Dianne Rachal Director, Office of Worship Rev. David T. Richter Director, Church Vocations Mr. John Vining Director, Youth and Young Adult Ministry Mr. Edward Hydro Manager, Office of Facilities Management

10 11 Catholic Connection February 2011

From Bishop Michael G. Duca With an introduction from Very Reverend Rothell Price, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia

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ope in the Lord” is the chosen motto of our chief pastor, teacher and governor. Psalm 31:25 calls us to “be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” We have received enduring strength and certain hope from the Savior sent from the Father. We know that there is more strength and grace to come. We know this is no idle hope, rather a hope of purpose and action guided by the Spirit.

Coming to full stature in Christ is the most important work we do as the People of God, the Church. Sharing our faith in the Lord Jesus strengthens our hearts. We strive then to be what the Apostle Paul calls us, “ambassadors for Christ.”

Authentically proclaiming the Lord Jesus allows others to take heart with us and share in this joy of ours. Our mission is to proclaim the Gospel in season and out of season, whether convenient or inconvenient, at home or abroad, when busy or at rest.

The great manifestation of the Spirit in and among us is our proclamation that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. This we do at home, in Catholic Schools and in Religious Education programs, in small devotional groups and in the gathered assembly. This proclamation is by word, and more so by action as we are called by the Lord to be not only hearers of the word, but doers of the word. We have been commissioned by the Lord and His Church to tell the next generation “what marvels the Lord has done for us.”

“Amen,” is our personal and communal response to Jesus, the Lord, truly present and presented to us in Holy Communion. “Amen” is that real hope of our Catholic faith. We become, day by day, more and more like him who loved us and gave his life for us. The words of John the Baptist resonate in our hearts, “I must decrease so that he may increase.” The witness of the Church is that in becoming more like him, we lose nothing and gain everything. We put on the heart and mind of Christ Jesus. This bond strengthens us and allows the world, through the ministry of the Church, to take heart.

The greatest opportunity that lies before us as a diocesan family is to share Jesus Christ, and him crucified. Saint Paul exhorts us that if anyone should boast, let them boast in Jesus Christ and him crucified. We have this great opportunity to boast in the Lord through our collective and individual nurturing of vocations to the priesthood, the diaconate, the vowed life of consecrated men and women religious and the advancement of lay ministry in the Church.

We are grateful for marvels the Lord has done for us, through us and with us.

This strengthens us and gladdens our hearts in the new works and wonders the Lord will accomplish through the Church for the salvation of the world.

As we look ahead, as we “Hope in the Lord,” “may the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep by the blood of the eternal covenant, Jesus Christ our Lord, furnish you with all that is good, that you may do his will. May he carry out in you what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 1: 20-21

Very Reverend Rothell Price Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia

Meet Your Diocesan Offices

Office of Business Affairs

Chancery

Back Row: (L to R) Randy Tiller, Director of Mission Effectiveness; Bishop Michael G. Duca; Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General & Moderator of the Curia; Front Row: (L to R) Sr. Patricia Cairns, Special Services; Elaine Gaillion, Administrative Assistant to the Bishop; Christine Rivers, Chancellor and Archives; Linda Easter, Administrative Assistant to the Chancery.

• Bishop is the chief pastor and leader of the diocese. Most Reverend Michael G. Duca serves the Diocese of Shreveport in this role. He is the teacher of faith, priest of sacred worship and minister of governance for the people of this particular church, the Diocese of Shreveport.

(L to R): Lori Mainiero, Administrative Assistant to the Business Office and Accounting Clerk; Mickey Finley, Accounts Payable and Receivable Clerk; Guy Reddick, General Ledger and Payroll Bookkeeper; Jill Braniff, Diocesan Business Officer; Margie Glennon, Associate Director of Business Affairs

Office of Business Affairs manages the day-to-day fiscal, legal and insurance operations of the diocese. This office promotes good fiscal management within the diocese, oversees finances, assists in the administration of goods and serves as a resource to parishes to contact for all financial, legal and insurance issues.

Canonical Services

• Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia assists the bishop with governance of the diocese and exercises the executive authority of the bishop, coordinating administrative affairs and the activities of the curia. Very Reverend Rothell Price serves the Diocese of Shreveport in this role.

• Chancellor and Archives maintains and authenticates official church records and preserves the history of the Church in this area. Assistance is provided to parishes on issues of record keeping and recording of the sacraments. The Chancellor’s office is responsible for official reports and grant writing. Christine Rivers serves the Diocese of Shreveport in this role.

• Office of Mission Effectiveness focuses on the fulfillment of the Church’s mission in the diocese through education, formation and dialogue. Together with the pastor and lay leadership a mission statement and goals and objectives for a particular parish are established. Through listening sessions and workshops within a parish, on a deanery level or the diocese as a whole, this office works to communicate the intent and understanding of diocesan policies and procedures along with examples of best practices.

Randy Tiller serves the Diocese of Shreveport in this role.

Office of Stewardship Office of Stewardship directs major fund-raising efforts on behalf of the diocese, primarily accomplished through the Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal. John Mark Willcox serves the diocese in this office.

Sr. Marilyn Vassallo, CSJ, Director of Canonical Services and the Office of Religious; Ann Goelden, Admin. Assistant to Canonical Services and the Tribunal; Ricole Williams, Moderator of the Tribunal

Canonical Services facilitates all annulment cases and offers mediation, conciliation and arbitration to assist the Church in protecting individual rights and resolving disputes. This office ministers to all parishes that submit marriage cases to the tribunal and offers education in every parish regarding annulments. Sr. Marilyn is the Director of the Tribunal and is assisted by Ann Goelden, Ricole Williams and many other priests from throughout the diocese.

Slattery Library Slattery Library offers individuals and parishes a variety of books, periodicals, audiotapes and videos to assist in the study of the Catholic faith. With over 10,000 volumes in the main and reference sections, the printed materials are fully searchable from the diocesan website. Debby Smith (not pictured) is the librarian.

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Catholic Schools Office

Office of Communications

Jessica Rinaudo, Publications Editor; John Mark Willcox, Director of Communications and Stewardship; Blanca Vice, Admin. Assistant and Appeal Clerk Sr. Carol Shively, OSU, Superintendent; Mary Gully, Administrative Assistant to Catholic Schools; Susan German, Child Nutrition Office Manager; Sr. Ann Middlebrooks, SEC, Associate Superintendent for Child Nutrition and Curriculum

Catholic Schools Office is charged with realizing the vision of Catholic education in the diocese.This office supports and provides direction for pastors, principals, teachers and school leaders in our five elementary and two high schools in Monroe and Shreveport. Child Nutrition Office works to provide nutritious, well-balanced meals for children in our schools.

Office of Communications serves as the media contact for facilitating official news and press releases and is the lead agent in preparation and oversight of the monthly diocesan news magazine, the Catholic Connection.

Hispanic Ministry

Facilities Management Rosalba Quiroz, Director of Hispanic Ministry and Immigration Services; Jeanne Brown, Admin. Assistant to Hispanic Ministry

Hispanic Ministry works to enable persons from Spanishspeaking cultures to participate fully in the life of the Church in this diocese and facilitates development of active Hispanic faith communities through leadership training and faith formation.

Permanent Diaconate

Back Row: Roosevelt Rice, Facilities Coordinator; Ron Ikner, Custodial Coordinator; Daniel Wisinger, Hospitality Coordinator; Ed Hydro, Facilities Manager; Front Row: Joseph Beaudoin, Cook; Linda Sutton; Receptionist; Calvin Baker, Groundskeeper.

Facilities Management supports the day-to-day functions of the Catholic Center, Fairview House Residence and St. Joseph Cemetery while overseeing the building maintenance of Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament Academy, St. Catherine Community Center and Catholic Charities of Shreveport.

Their duties include building and grounds maintenance, guest receptions, hospitality and event scheduling in the facilities, security, centralized purchasing, mail, staff services and office equipment support.

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Deacon Clary Nash, Director of the Permanent Diaconate; Brandy Wood, Admin. Assistant to the Permanent Diaconate

Permanent Diaconate reaches out to all the people of God through the identification and formation of men for service as permanent deacons. This office also assists and supervises the ordained permanent deacons in their ministry and assignment.

Office of Worship

Vocations Office

Brandy Wood, Admin. Assistant to the Office of Worship; Dianne Rachal, Director of the Office of Worship

Fr. David Richter, Director of Vocations; Jeanne Brown, Admin.

Assistant to Vocations

Office of Worship assists in the sacramental and liturgical ministry of the diocese and its parishes, providing liturgical resources and formation to priests, parishes and the faithful to enrich the worship of the Church.

Human Resources

Peggy Ray, Admin. Assistant to HR and Retired Clergy; Deacon Michael Straub, Director of Human Resources and Safe Environment

Human Resources supports employees of our churches, schools and diocesan offices with assistance about the administration of benefits including health insurance, flexible spending accounts and retirement plan coverage. This office also implements the diocesan-wide safe environment program to protect children and young people.

Vocations Office works to invite individuals and parish communities to a more active Christian life in order to generate and support vocations to the priesthood and religious life. This office provides support and encouragement to our current seminarians.

Greco Institute

Ginger Broussard, Admin. Assistant to Greco Institute and Registrar; Fr. Patrick Madden, Director of Greco Institute

Greco Institute coordinates all adult-level religious education in the diocese, offering program designed to foster a comprehensive and integrated understanding of the faith and to develop ministerial skills and knowledge.

Youth and Young Adult Ministry

Office of Information Systems

John Vining, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries; Brandy Wood, Admin. Assistant to Youth and Young Adult Ministries Patricia Pillors, Director of Information Systems

Information Systems is responsible for implementation, management and technical support for the diocese’s Internet, email, desktops, servers, network and data security systems and serves as technical support to parishes and parish-based organizations.

Youth and Young Adult Ministry serves adult and teen leaders as well as campus ministers throughout the diocese by providing leadership training, access to professional resources, information networking and program support. All their efforts are geared to recognize and encourage the youth and young adults of the diocese to take an active role in the Church through parish and campus involvement.

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ANNUAL REPORT

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ANNUAL REPORT

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ANNUAL REPORT

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ANNUAL REPORT

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Hispanic Corner por Rosalba Quiroz

La Iglesia Nos Enseña y Acompaña a Iglesia de Jesucristo (Católica/ Universal) se preocupa por nuestro bienestar pleno, tanto espiritual como físico y a través de los años nos revela maneras de vivir plenamente y perseverar en nuestra fe. Muchas de estas enseñanzas se encuentran en documentos eclesiales como los Concilios.

Un Concilio es una asamblea o reunión de obispos convocada por el Papa o sus legítimos delegados para debatir asuntos importantes referentes a la doctrina y disciplina de la Iglesia o (CNS photo/L'Osservatore Romano via Reuters) parte de ella, en respuesta a urgencias de la humanidad de su tiempo. Durante que este Concilio es de verdad la caja obispos se dirigen a los gobernantes, a los la historia de la Iglesia se cuentan hasta de resonancia de los grandes problemas trabajadores, a los pobres, a los enfermos el momento 21 Concilios sin contar e inquietudes del hombre actual. El y a los jóvenes para darnos esperanza el primer encuentro que tuvieron Vaticano II asumió como objetivo todas en nuestros tiempos y en el futuro. Les los Apóstoles en Jerusalén de donde las inquietudes de la humanidad actual, exhorto a responder a ese llamado de enviaron una carta apostólica abordando que son inquietudes de la iglesia. Se nuestra iglesia a ser fieles a las enseñanzas ya temas controversiales de sus tiempos. tocaron temas como la libertad religiosa, de Jesús y a aprender más de nuestra En el primer Concilio llamado la guerra y la dignidad del ser humano iglesia Católica. de Nicea en el año 325 se afirmó entre otros.

Extracciones del documento del la divinidad de Jesucristo y su En su despedida, después de cuatro Concilio Vaticano II, Ediciones Paulinas , consubstancialidad con el Padre. De ahí años de trabajar en esta asamblea, los impreso en Bogotá, Colombia en1987. también deriva el “símbolo niceno” o Credo que aun proclamamos durante Calendario Diocesano Mes de Febrero la liturgia. En otros Concilios se han 5-6 Escuela de Ministerios: Eclesiología. Sábado de 9 a.m. a 7 p.m. y domingo debatido temas fundamentales como de 9 a.m. a 2 p.m., Centro Católico. la maternidad divina de María, la humanidad de Jesucristo, la justificación 12 Reunión de coordinadores de 12:00 – 3:00 p.m., Centro Católico. de los Sacramentos, la Eucaristía, el Canon de las Sagradas Escrituras, la Anticipación de Calendario para Marzo fe, y la constitución de la Iglesia entre 2-3 Retiro de coordinadores del Estado de Luisiana, Houma Thibodeau, LA. otros.

El último Concilio llamado “Vaticano 9 Miércoles de Ceniza, comienzo de la Cuaresma.

II” permaneció en debate desde 1962 26 Retiro Familiar de Cuaresma. Centro Católico. hasta 1965. En el transcurso de esos tres años de trabajo se puede decir

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Misas

Bossier City: Christ the King 425 McCormick St. Bossier City Domingo 3:00 p.m.

Marilú Rodriguez Tel: 318-286-1492 Farmerville: Our Lady of Perpetual Help 600 E. Water Street, Farmerville Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115 Mansfield: St. Joseph 305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield

2do Domingo 2:00 p.m. y 3er Martes 6:30 p.m.

Juanita Ibarra Tel: 318-872-5390 Minden: St. Paul 410 Fincher Road, Minden Viernes 7:00 p.m.

Margarita Bratton Tel: 318-377-9684 Oak Grove: Sacred Heart 201 Purvis St, Oak Grove Domingo 5:00 p.m.

Feliciano y Rosa Alviso Martinez Tel: 318-428-2137

Ruston: St. Thomas Aquinas 810 Carey Ave, Ruston 2do y 4to Domingo 2:30 p.m.

Soledad Broyles Tel: 318-243-1958 Shreveport: St. Mary of the Pines 1050 Bert Kouns Ind Lp., Shreveport Domingo 1:00 p.m.

Carmen Bradford Tel: 318-455-2300 West Monroe: St. Paschal 711 N 7th Street, W. Monroe Domingo 2:30 p.m.

Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora del Ministerio Hispano 318-219-7265 • Rev. Al Jost, Coordinador de La Vicaría del Este • 318-243-0115

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May 1 Beatification Set for Pope John Paul II after Miracle Approved

by John Thavis, Catholic News Service ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI approved a miracle attributed to Pope John Paul II’s intercession, clearing the way for the late pope’s beatification on May 1, Divine Mercy Sunday. Pope Benedict’s action Jan. 14 followed more than five years of investigation into the life and writings of the Polish pontiff, who died in April 2005 after more than 26 years as pope.

The Vatican said it took special care with verification of the miracle, the spontaneous cure of a French nun from Parkinson’s disease -- the same illness that afflicted Pope John Paul in his final years. Three separate Vatican panels approved the miracle, including medical and theological experts, before Pope Benedict signed the official decree.

“There were no concessions given here in procedural severity and thoroughness,” said Cardinal Angelo Amato, head of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes. On the contrary, he said, Pope John Paul’s cause was subject to “particularly careful scrutiny, to remove any doubt.”

The Vatican said it would begin looking at logistical arrangements for the massive crowds expected for the beatification liturgy, which will be celebrated by Pope Benedict at the Vatican.

Divine Mercy Sunday had special significance for Pope John Paul, who made it a church-wide feast day to be celebrated a week after Easter.

The pope died on the vigil of Divine Mercy Sunday in 2005.

With beatification, Pope John Paul will be declared “blessed” and thus worthy of restricted liturgical honor. Another miracle is needed for canonization, by which the church declares a person to be a saint and worthy of universal veneration.

The Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, summed up much of the sentiment in Rome when he said Pope John Paul would be beatified primarily for the spiritual gifts of faith, hope and charity that were the source of his papal activity.

The world witnessed that spirituality when the pope prayed, when he spent time with the sick and suffering, in his visits to the impoverished countries of the world and in his own illness “lived out in faith, before God and all of us,” Father Lombardi said.

Father Lombardi said the Vatican was preparing to move Pope John Paul’s body from the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica to the Chapel of

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Memories of Grief, Hope for Future: Haitians Pray, One Year after Quake

by Catholic News Service ORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (CNS) -- In front of a national cathedral that lay in rubble, Catholic leaders marked the anniversary of Haiti’s deadly earthquake by praying for its victims and calling for reconstruction of this tattered Caribbean country. “This tragedy took everything. ... and sickness and death is still hitting Haitians,” said Cardinal Robert Sarah, the papal envoy (CNS photo/Joe Rimkus Jr.) and the main celebrant at the Mass. “We St. Sebastian in the basilica’s upper level at the call on the international community time of beatification. The chapel, on the right hand side of the church just after Michelangelo’s ... to develop the country, to develop Haiti.” Throughout the earthquake-torn Pieta, is easily accessible and spacious, an capital, Haitians flocked to churches for important factor given the steady stream of prayer services Jan. 12, the anniversary pilgrims who come to see the pope’s tomb. of the earthquake. Schools and many In 2005, Pope Benedict set Pope John Paul businesses closed for the day, which was on the fast track to beatification by waiving declared a national holiday and a day of the normal five-year waiting period for the prayer. Thousands attended the morning introduction of his sainthood cause. That service outside the Cathedral of Our seemed to respond to the “Santo subito!” (“Sainthood now!”) banners that were held aloft Lady of the Assumption. Haiti’s prime minister, presidential candidates and at Pope John Paul’s funeral. musicians sat in tents flanked by choirs Even so, church experts needed years and scores of residents. Many stood to review the massive amount of evidence regarding the late pope, including thousands under a cloudless sky in the blaring of pages of writings and speeches. The process Haitian sun, singing and praying. “This began with the Diocese of Rome, which is a day for us to remember the people interviewed more than 120 people who knew we lost, but also it’s a day to be thankful Pope John Paul and asked them about his that we made it through this year,” said actions and character. Studies were conducted Pierre Jean as she sat on a blanket in on his ministry, the way he handled suffering front of a UNICEF tent. She paused a and how he faced his death. moment, holding back tears. “It was a In 2007, on the second anniversary of the horrible year.” pope’s death, the Rome Diocese concluded the initial inquiry phase. The documents from the investigation were placed in four chests, which were latched, tied with a red ribbon, sealed with red wax and delivered to the Congregation for Saints’ Causes for further study.

In November 2008, a team of theological consultors to the saints congregation began studying the 2,000-page “positio,” the document that made the case for Pope John Paul’s beatification. After their favorable judgment, the cardinal and bishop members of the sainthood congregation met in late 2009 Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of and voted to advance the cause.

New Orleans speaks during a Mass On Dec. 21, 2009, Pope Benedict declared in Port-au-Prince marking the onethat Pope John Paul had lived a life of “heroic year anniversary of the Jan. 12, 2010 virtues.” That meant he could be beatified once earthquake that devastated Haiti.(CNS a miracle had been approved. photo/Paul Jeffrey)

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Around the Diocese

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4 1. St. Pius X Church Hosted 12th Night Mass

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he annual Twelfth Night Mass that officially begins the local Mardi Gras season was celebrated for the first time in St. Pius X’s new church sanctuary on January 9. Every inch of space was filled with parishioners, Krewe members in their heavily decorated jackets, and their guests, dressed in the symbolic colors of Mardi Gras, purple, green and gold. The customary Mass was an opportunity to get a special “blessing” before the celebrated revelry begins. The new church sanctuary accommodated more people and offered a more visible view, due to the radial placement of the pews, of Bishop Michael Duca as he officiated over the Mass.

The John Manno families, parishioners of St. Pius X and the Knights of Columbus hosted a reception afterwards, which included many different flavors of the traditional king cake. Those in attendance were also gifted with a commemorative 2011 Mardi Gras medallion.

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2. St. Jude’s Ladies Guild Delivers Gifts to Sick

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ach year since 1995, the Ladies Guild has packed and delivered a bag of 12 gifts to area nursing homes and to the sick and homebound. The idea is for the recipients to be able to open a gift each day for the Twelve Days of Christmas.

Pictured left to right: Eleanor Spohn, Jackie Mayeux, Janet Boggs, Carol Quartana, Dasha Eichorn, Shirley Milam, Patricia Guanella, Donna Tinsley, Merline Broussard and Nadine Barksdale.

3. Christ the King Celebrated with Special Nativity

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hrist the King Church celebrated Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve in the old church. The Mass was said in English, Spanish and Latin. The Nativity pictured covered the old Sanctuary. This Nativity was created by Fr. Rigoberto and Raúl Trujillo. It took approximately one week to finish the project. This Nativity is larger and more detailed than the one built in 2009.

4. Holy Trinity Church Continues Christmas Tradition

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oly Trinity continues the tradition of blessing the Christmas crib set for the past 154 years. The parishioners and visitors relive the birthday of our Lord.

The children around the altar represent the angels around the first Christmas.

The children look forward to being angels on this special holy occasion. They truly enjoy celebrating the birth of Jesus.

5. St. Benedict Church Celebrated the “80’s”

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t. Benedict the Black Catholic Church in Grambling celebrates their 80 plus year olds every first Sunday in December. This special event started last year with a “flowers for the 80’s.”

Each person 80 years and older was given a rose; and this year the celebration continued with “a cup of thanks.” Each person was given a mug engraved with “Thanks for Serving with a Heart Like Jesus” and an accompanying memo pad.

Saint Margaret

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by Kim Long

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an you imagine a beautiful princess, a strapping young king, political intrigue, faith, exile and arranged marriage to aid family alliances that became a great love affair? If so then you have the beginnings of Margaret of Scotland’s story.

I recently had two weeks off work and managed to ignore straightening closets and my pantry in favor of reading some books for pleasure. One such book was called Queen Hereafter, a novel of the life of Margaret of Scotland. Since it was a work of fiction I went to the Internet and checked some of the facts.

Margaret Atheling, a Saxon princess by birth, was born in Hungary around 1045. It was to Hungary that her father, Edward Atheling (the Exile), had been sent in infancy for protection in the court of King Stephen of Hungary.

Edward married Agatha, a niece of King Stephan, and they had three children: Edgar, Margaret and Christina. When King Edward of England returned from exile in Normandy to re-establish the Anglo-Saxon throne, he brought Edward, Agatha and their children home from exile. Almost immediately upon their homecoming Edward fell The “80 plus years olds” are: Jean Brown, dead and Margaret’s brother Edgar, Shirley Henderson, Louis Flournoy (the became the heir apparent as Kind oldest member), Angelo Julien, Douglas Edward had never married. Margaret was about 10 at the time. In England, Porter and Carter Racks. These gifts were Margaret became known for her devout presented by the younger members of the faith as well as beauty. church: Ayanna Griffin, Trinity Griffin, In England’s unstable political Breyana Robinson, Jada Morelos and climate Margaret and her family found Kabrenna Wilson. themselves once again in danger and 6. Sr. Marilyn Realizes Life Dream the decision was made that they should return to Hungary; however their boat uring a recent retreat she was giving was carried by North Sea winds to based on Joan Chittister’s book on Scotland, where they found refuge in the Aging and Pope John Paul II, Sr. Marilyn court of Malcolm. Margaret had no desire Vassallo mentioned that no matter how to marry, instead desiring to serve God old one is, it is important to dream. She as a nun. Family duty prevailed and when then shared with the group that one of Malcolm asked for her hand in marriage her lifetime dreams was to fly an airplane. she acquiesced. It was a good match During the break, one of the parishioners, which grew into a strong and blessed Dr. Mike Torma, asked her if she would marriage producing eight children. All like to come flying with him in his plane. their children were carefully educated He then added that he would let her and instructed in the Christian faith and fly the plane! When the day came, Dr. never wavered in their own fidelity to the Mike coached Sr. Marilyn in some basic Church. One son, David, is also a saint. directions, then he said, “It’s all yours, In addition to motherhood and the Sister.” Together they flew over northwest responsibilities of marriage, Margaret Louisiana and into southern Arkansas. had a vigorous prayer life, fasting and

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rising at all hours of the night to pray the psalms and liturgy of the hours. This was a practice she never abandoned. She initiated reform in the Scottish Church, rebuilt and re-established the monasteries in Iona and Dumferline. She embroidered vestments and fostered a renaissance of Catholic belief, learning and culture in Scotland. She and her husband, Malcolm, built many schools.

She availed herself to the poor seeking to serve others in the way Jesus served.

In the mornings she fed the poor before she ate with her own spoon and bowl.

She and Malcolm often washed the feet of the poor. This they did in private desiring only to serve God rather than make a spectacle of their devotion. Margaret and Malcolm truly believed they were serving Christ in the person of the poor.

Upon hearing the news that her dear husband had been killed in battle, Margaret fell ill. After lingering for four days she died on November 16, 1092.

Some historians believe her rigorous fasting practices weakened her heart and thus hastened her demise. Margaret is sometimes called the Pearl of Scotland and is patron saint of large families, Scotland, widows, queens, learning and against the death of children.

Margaret was canonized by Pope Innocent IV in 1250.

Some ways to honor this saint are attending Mass on her feast day November 16, cooking some Scottish (or Hungarian) food, volunteering at a soup kitchen or taking meals to the homeless. If we all do a little much can be accomplished for the glory of God. Lord, you gave Saint Margaret of Scotland the gifts of faith and obedience, trust and strength. She honored you in word and deed. May we be inspired by her example so that we become reflections of your love in our world. We ask this through Christ the Lord. AMEN. 21 20

Upcoming Events FEBRUARY 4: ALL SCHOOLS MASS The annual All Schools Mass liturgy will take place on February 4 at 9:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Monroe. The Mass will be celebrated

by Bishop Michael Duca for the students of Our Lady of Fatima School, Jesus the Good Shepherd School and St. Frederick High School.

FEBRUARY 4-5: MUSIC WORKSHOP This free music workshop will focus on music for the Mass settings in the new Roman Missal. Presented by the Diocesan Liturgical Conference and the Office of Worship, this event will be offered at the Catholic Center in Shreveport at no charge to you. The event will be Friday, February 4 from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. To register, contact Dianne Rachal at 318-868-4441, or email her at drachal@dioshpt.org.

proceeds will go towards funding the elevator for Hannah Pham. Tickets will be on sale in the school office for $30.00 each. Any donations are appreciated.

If interested in making a donation or buying tickets, please contact St. John Berchmans Cathedral School 947 Jordan St. Shreveport, LA 71101, 318-221-6005.

FEBRUARY 17: CHURCH HISTORY COURSE AT CHRIST THE KING Beginning February 17 at 6:00 p.m., Sr. Marilyn Vassallo will teach a four week Church History course at Christ the King Church. Anyone may attend the class.

It will be held in the Parish Center (old school) which is across from the Church.

For more information, call the church at 318-221-0238.

Catholic” by beginning the program “Calling Catholics Home.”

Please join us for informal sessions and an update of the Catholic faith. The sessions are conducted in a support-group format.

Everyone is welcome.

Please keep this program in mind while visiting with friends and family who might be fallen away Catholics.

This six week program will take place at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans on Wednesdays, March 2 - April 6, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. For more information, contact Jane Snyder at 318-865-3581, or go to www.callingcatholicshome.com.

ONGOING THROUGH MARCH 9: COMMUNITY GRIEF GROUP St. Jude Church in Bossier City recently began a community grief support group for adults and teens experiencing the loss FEBRUARY 19: RETREAT FOR of a loved one. The group will continue LECTORS This free retreat is being to meet on Wednesday evenings from held for all those who serve as lectors in 6:30 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. The group meets in their parishes. Presented by the Office of the Church Rectory dining room. Free Worship, this event will be offered at the community meal provided. Daycare is Catholic Center in Shreveport from 9:00 available. For more information contact a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at no charge to you and FEBRUARY 11: “TASTE OF ITALY” includes lunch. To register, contact Dianne Laurie Nussbaum at 318-549-1082 or St. RAISES MONEY TO ASSIST ST. Jude Church at 318-746-2508.

Rachal at 318-868-4441, or email her at JOHN BERCHMANS STUDENT drachal@dioshpt.org.

St. John Berchmans Cathedral School MARCH 14-17: LENTEN MISSION is holding its 10th annual Dance and AT ST. JOSEPH CHURCH IN MARCH 2 - APRIL 6: CALLING Auction on February 11 at the home of Dr. SHREVEPORT Fr. Philip Dabney, CSSR CATHOLICS HOME During the and Mrs. William Cook. “That’s Amore” 2011 Lenten season, parishes throughout and Fr. Patrick Keyes, CSSR will present will be a fun-filled night of food, dancing, the diocese are taking the opportunity the mission. For more information, call silent and live auctions sponsored by to welcome back those who were “once the church at 318-865-3581. the SJB Home & School Association. All

2 0 1 1 D i o ce s a n s t e w a rd s h i p Appe a l

I / We would like to contribute to the Diocesan Stewardship Appeal with a yearly pledge of: $10,000 $7,500 $5,000 $3,500

$2,500 $2,000 $1,500 $1,000

Please send monthly reminders to:

$800 $750 $650 $500

$400 $350 $300 $250

At this time I / we are enclosing:

$200 $150 $100 $_______

$_____________

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Diocese of Shreveport The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 www.dioshpt.org

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22 23 Catholic Connection February 2011

FEBRUARY 2011 SUNDAY

30

Appeal Announcement Sunday

MONDAY

TUESDAY

31

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

1

Catholic Schools Week Begins

Pilgrims watch fireworks after a prayer service marking World Day of the Sick and Our Lady of Lourdes in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

2

3

World Day for Consecrated Life

Saint John Bosco, priest

FRIDAY

4

5

Music Workshop, Music Workshop, Catholic Center, 10am Catholic Center, Mass for Black 2pm All Schools Mass, History Month, St. Matthew Church, Our Lady of 4pm Fatima Church, Saint Agatha, virgin Monroe, 9am

Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr; Saint Ansgar, bishop

The Presentation of the Lord

SATURDAY

& martyr

6

Catholic Scouting Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 11am Appeal Education Sunday

13 APPEAL SUNDAY

20

Confirmation, St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 9:30am

7 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds, St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 9:30am

14

Valentines Day

Saint Cyril, monk, and Saint Methodius, bishop

21

8

9

Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops Meeting, 10am

10

Deadline for the March Catholic Connection

Saint Scholastica, virgin

Saint Jerome Emiliani, priest; Saint Josephine Bakhita, virgin

15

16

22

23

Diocesan Liturgical Commission Meeting, Catholic Center, 12:30

The Chair of Saint Presidents’ Day Catholic Medical Peter, apsotle Students Association Lunch, LSUHSC, 12pm

11 World Day of the Sick

12 Lincoln's Birthday

Our Lady of Lourdes

17

18

24

25

The Seven Founders of the Order of Servites, religious

19

Retreat for Lectors, Catholic Center, 9am

26 Confirmation, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 4pm

Saint Polycarp, bishop and martyr

Saint Peter Damian, bishop and doctor of the Church

27

Confirmation, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 11am

28

1

2

Saint Katherine Drexel, virgin

3

4

World Day of Prayer Saint Casimir

5

23 22

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

•

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Men’s Discernment Retreat at the Catholic Center

T

t he n t t ime be f ore e p s n e m g n u Yo me n t.

Ble s se d S acra

of te r, Direc tor Fr. Dav id R ich of r th e Dio ce se Vo cations fo treat. re e th du ri ng e ok sp , rt po Shre ve

24 Catholic Connection February 2011

he weekend of January 7-9, a retreat was held at the Catholic Center to support men discerning their vocations. Fr. Bayhi, who is the pastor of St. John the Baptist Church in Zachary, LA and former Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Baton Rouge, led the retreat. For a perspective on the retreat from one of the attendees, see page 7 of this issue.

Fr. Bayhi ce le brates M

as s for th e re treat at te nd ee s.

g men ou r, th e youn After H ol y H be fore d ts ide to st an proces se d ou urde s.

Our Lady of Lo

Bayhi du r ing r.

F o t n e t s li At te nde e s t re t re at. n e m n r e c is d t he