Catholic Connection

VOL. 18, NO. 9

Retired Priests Fund > Bishop’s Reflection: Christ Our Light p. 5 > Historical St. Joseph Altar, p. 6 > Cara Center Opens Doors, p. 10

p. 12

APRIL 2009

Bishop Michael Duca’s April 2009 Schedule April 22, Human Resources Workshop, Catholic Center, 10:00 a.m.

April 22, Confirmation at St. John the Baptist Church, Many. 6:00 p.m.

Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Regular Contributors Bishop Michael Duca Fr. David Richter Kim Long Jessica Rinaudo Missy McKenzie Christine Rivers Lucy Medvec Sr. Martinette Rivers Rosalba Quiroz Katie Scibia Dianne Rachal John Mark Willcox Featured Writers Bill Fleming Casey Simpson Msgr. Carson LaCaze Dotye Sue Stanford Randy Tiller Fr. Joe Martina Sr. Marilyn Vassallo Nancy Miller Holly Wilson E.B. “Buddy” Polson Editorial Board Dianne Rachal Cathy Cobb Christine Rivers Felicia Gilliam Christie Weeks Rev. Charles Glorioso John Mark Willcox Kim Long 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.

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 Low-Income Families.

To find out if you or someone you know qualifies for an Immigration benefit, please contact Mrs. Rosalba Quiroz at 1-800-2561542, ext. 265 or 318-219-7265 or email rquiroz@dioshpt.org

April 22-23, Louisiana Convention of Priests, New Orleans April 25, Confirmation at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport, 4:00 p.m.

April 4, Catechists Workshop: “The Influence of the Digital Age on Faith Formation,” Catholic Center, 9:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m.

April 5, Palm Sunday Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans. 11:00 a.m.

April 7, Chrism Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 5:30 p.m.

April 9, Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 5:30 p.m.

April 26, Confirmation at Christ the King Church, Bossier City, 11:00 a.m.

April 26, Confirmation at Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 5:30 p.m.

April 27, Bishop Roger Morin’s Installation as Bishop of Biloxi April 29, Confirmation at St. Joseph Church, Zwolle, 6:00 p.m.

From the Chancellor Christine Rivers

• The Catholic Center will be April 10, Social Justice Way of the Cross, closed on Good Friday, April 10, 2009.

First United Methodist Church, • The Ascension of the Lord is 9:00 a.m. celebrated on Sunday, May 24th, the April 10, Good Friday Service, Cathedral Seventh Sunday of Easter. of St. John Berchmans, 3:00 p.m.

• For Liturgical purposes on Holy Saturday, Sunset is at 7:42 p.m.

April 11, Easter Vigil, Cathedral of St. Central Daylight Time.

John Berchmans, 7:45 p.m.

April 14, Eastern Deanery Human Resources Workshop, Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe, 10:00 a.m.

April 14, Jesus the Good Shepherd School Vocations Luncheon, Monroe, 12:00 p.m.

April 16, St. Frederick High School Style Show, Monroe Civic Center, 11:00 a.m.

April 18, Confirmation at Mary, Queen of Peace Church, Bossier City, 4:00 p.m.

April 19, Confirmation at Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe, 11:00 a.m.

April 19, Confirmation at St. Joseph Church, Shreveport, 4:00 p.m.

April 20, St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy 10th Anniversary Celebration/ Luncheon, St. Francis Medical Center, Monroe, 12:00 p.m.

On the Cover: Diocese of Shreveport Retired Priests Fr. Patrick Scully, Msgr.

Franz Graef, Fr. Joseph Inzina and Fr. Ken Williams.

Photos by Jessica Rinaudo and Sherry Heflin. Design by Jessica Rinaudo.

From the Editor...

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s the Catholic Connection celebrates its 20th year, I found myself looking through boxes and boxes of old Connections dating back to the very first issue. At first, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of magazines collected over the years.

I didn’t know what to do with them or how to preserve them. I kept thinking about this as I read through old articles, educating myself on the history of the diocese and what the Connection covered in the past.

Then it hit me! I realized we have a great, FREE platform for storing these issues forever and making them available to the public (and without digging through old boxes): the Internet and our website!

During the past couple of months I began cataloging each issue, scanning them, creating PDFs and posting them on our website at www. dioshpt.org/connection. On the website, you can click on any year and month to view a PDF of that issue. This project is still a work in progress, and I hope to have all of them available to you by this summer.

Additionally, you may notice the look of the Connection has changed a little bit. Although much of it remains the same, I have been working on a format that is, hopefully, a bit easier to read. As always, thank you for your feedback and submissions and keep an eye on the Connection in upcoming months; you just may see some more changes you like.

— Jessica Rinaudo, Editor

Upcoming Events

Contents Bishop Michael Duca’s April 2009 Schedule...........................................2 From the Chancellor by Christine Rivers.....................................................2 From the Editor by Jessica Rinaudo.............................................................3 Upcoming Events........................................................................................3 Confirmation Schedule...............................................................................4 Bishop’s Reflection: Christ Our Light by Most Rev. Michael Duca. ........ 4-5 St. Matthew Church Celebrates Historic St. Joseph Altar

by Randy Tiller........................................................................................6 A Way to Proclaim Justice by Dotye Sue Stanford. ......................................7 LIMEX Program Changed My Life by Holly Wilson..................................7 Priest Spotlight: Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze.................................................8 Easter Reflection by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo. ....................................................9 Liturgy Lines: Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship Pt. 1

by Dianne Rachal....................................................................................9 Cara Center Opens Doors by Jessica Rinaudo. .........................................10 Magnificat April Prayer Bunch................................................................10 School News .............................................................................................11 Priest Retirement Fund by Fr. Joseph Martina..................................... 12-13 Western Deanery Red Mass by Bill Fleming. ..........................................14 Angels in Disguise by Buddy Polson. .........................................................14 Diocese to Host Estate Planning Seminar by John Mark Willcox............15 Family Friendly Helpers: Saint Dymphna by Kim Long..........................15 Andrew Dinner for Vocations by Casey Simpson. .....................................16 Hispanic Corner / Nuestra Página por Rosalba Quiroz...........................17 News Briefs by Catholic News Service. .......................................................18 Holy Hour for Vocations at Christ the King by Nancy Miller..................19 April Calendar...........................................................................................19

April 4 -Catechist Workshop Sr. Rose Pacatte will speak on “The Influence of the Digital Age on Faith Formation.”

Catholic Center. Free admission. Bring a brown bag lunch. 9:30am- 3:00pm Dianne Rachal, 318-219-7310.

April 4 -One Life Movie Night featuring Passion of the Christ. St. John Berchmans multi-room. 5:30pm. Chris Davis. 318-349-3279.

April 4 -Media Morning! For parents, grandparents and everyone interested in the influence of media on our culture, Sr. Rose Pacatte, FSP will present “Helping Kids Mind the Media.” Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Parish Hall. 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. Register with Twyla, twyla@ sjbcathedral.org or call 318--221-5269.

April 4 & 5 - Passion Play at Mary Queen of Peace. 6:00pm. Free admission.

318-752-5971.

April 7 - Prolife Orator y Contest sponsored by the National Right to Life. Contest is open to all high school juniors and seniors who will address the issues of abortion, infanticide, euthanasia of fetal stem cell research in 5-7 minute oral presentations. Catholic

Center, 7:00pm. Susan Flannagan 318-861-6879.

April 12 - Coronation Mass composed

by Mozart, Extraordinary Form at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans. 20 instrumentalists and 24 voices; everyone is welcome! 5:30pm.

April 17-19 - Beginning Experience Retreat at Maryhill Renewal Center in Pineville. This retreat is for those who are divorced, widowed and separated to work through the grief process of losing a spouse.Cindy Colgin 318-230-4315 or Deacon Mark Campbell and Libby Campbell 318-425-3901. Please leave a message if no one answers.

April 19 - Divine Mercy Sunday devotion at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans. Invite friends and family to attend! 2:30pm.

Confirmation Schedule 2009 Bishop Michael G. Duca presiding.

Saturday, April 18, 4:00 p.m., Mary, Queen of Peace Church, Bossier City Sunday, April 19, 11:00 a.m., Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe Sunday, April 19, 4:00 p.m., St. Joseph Church, Shreveport Saturday, April 25, 4:00 p.m., St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport Sunday, April 26, 11:00 a.m., Christ the King Church, Bossier City Sunday, April 26, 5:30 p.m., Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport Wednesday, April 29, 6:00 p.m., St. Joseph Church, Zwolle Sunday, May 3, 11:00 a.m., St. Paul Church, Minden Sunday, May 3, 5:00 p.m., St. Matthew Church, Monroe Sunday, May 17, 9:00 a.m., St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport Friday, May 22, 7:00 p.m., Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Farmerville Saturday, May 23, 4:30 p.m., Our Lady of Fatima Church, Monroe Sunday, May 24, 11:00 a.m., St. Joseph Church, Mansfield Saturday, May 30, 5:30 p.m., St. Paschal Church, West Monroe Sunday, May 31, 9:00 a.m., St. Clement Church, Vivian Sunday, June 7, 10:00 a.m., St. Benedict the Black Church, Grambling Sunday, June 14, 10:00 a.m., St. Lawrence Church, Swartz Sunday, June 21, 9:00 a.m., Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, Shreveport

4 Catholic Connection April 2009

La Reflexión del Obispo

Cristo Nuestra Luz

ara la primera celebración de Pascua en la iglesia católica se nos instruye que la Vigilia de Pascua debe comenzar en la oscuridad de la noche. Te puedes preguntar ¿Porqué no en la madruga? porque hay mucho que comendar durante este tiempo para la celebración de Pascua.

Pero una verdad mas profunda es el trabajo de este día. Se comienza la celebración de la Vigilia de Pascua en la oscuridad. Encendemos un fuego y de ese fuego se enciende el Sirio Pascual y luego entramos en procesión a la iglesia que esta iluminada solamente por esa luz del sirio. Proclamamos, Cristo es nuestra Luz. Con esta simple acción proclamamos la verdad de que en un mundo oscuro con el pecado, la luz de Cristo estalla con su Resurrección. En este momento histórico la Luz vence a la oscuridad del pecado, se llevó a cabo la redención, la eternidad de nuestras vidas se reveló y la esperanza se restableció.

En cada era existen causas que nos hacen sentir la oscuridad alrededor y hoy, con los recientes problemas económicos, con los desastres naturales y tantos problemas de nuestros tiempos, nos sentimos en la oscuridad. Parece tan oscura que se siente imposible sobrepasarla. Pero el poder maravilloso de la luz es que no importa que tan oscuro esté, el sirio por muy pequeño que sea tiene el poder de vencer esa oscuridad. Nosotros somos gente de la Pascua. Somos hijos de la Luz. Llenémonos de la Luz de Cristo y ella dispersará la oscuridad de nuestras vidas y nos liberará para que vivamos como gente de esperanza, fe y caridad.

Como gente de Esperanza podemos enfrentar la oscuridad de la crucifixión sabiendo que la esperanza de la resurrección es aún más grande. En efecto, es todavía más grande que la cruz de Jesus, por eso es que su muerte es ahora una señal de esperanza.

Nuestra esperanza en Cristo no es que todo va a salir como nosotros queremos, sino que enfrentando cualquier dificultad, inclusive la muerte, el Señor nos mostrará una nueva manera tan

maravillosa que aun nuestra dificultad se convierte en testigo del poder de su amor redentor.

Como gente de Fe pasamos nuestras vidas a veces con retos de ética y de moral por nuestras creencias.

Desafortunadamente en tiempos difíciles tenemos la tentación de buscar salidas fáciles o racionalizar en nuestra integridad moral. Así es que robamos un poquito, hacemos trampa y hasta mentimos por temor y porque creemos que esa es la única manera de pasar por los tiempos difíciles. ¡NO! En los momentos de crisis y tiempos difíciles es cuando mas necesitamos confiar en el camino del Señor. Escuchen las enseñanzas de la Iglesia y actúen con fe – que Jesus es el Camino, La Verdad y la Vida. Crean que si confiamos en su camino no solamente pasaremos los tiempos difíciles sino que nuestra fe crecerá y viviremos como verdaderos hombres y mujeres de fe.

La resurrección también nos llama a ser gente Caritativa. En tiempos difíciles tendemos a cuidarnos más porque tememos no tener suficiente. El antídoto a ese miedo es salir de nosotros mismos y ayudar a otros aun cuando nosotros también necesitamos la ayuda. Una de las mejores sanaciones de la caridad es el salir de nuestro pequeño mundo de preocupaciones y en el ayudar a otros encontramos nuevo propósito.

Nuestro amor crea una luz que disipa la oscuridad en nuestras vidas y en las vidas de otros.

La madre Teresa de Calcuta nos recuerda que, Nunca dejemos llenar nuestro corazón de tristeza al punto que olvidemos el poder de la Resurrección de Jesucristo.” Así que no te llenes de oscuridad. La luz ha vencido la oscuridad. ¡Ten Esperanza en el Señor! ¡Alégrate creación toda! ¡Jesucristo, nuestro Rey ha Resucitado! ¡Suenen las campanas de la Salvación! ¡Cristo ha vencido! ¡Reine la Gloria! ¡La oscuridad se desaparece por siempre!

(Oración de la proclamación de la Pascua) – Obispo Michael G. Duca

Bishop’s Reflection

In a world dark with sin, the Light of Christ bursts forth in His Resurrection or the first service of Easter in the Catholic Church we are instructed that the Easter Vigil should begin in the darkness of night. You might wonder, “Why not at sunrise?,” for there is much to commend this time for the celebration of Easter.

But a deeper truth is at work here. We begin the Easter Vigil service outside the Church, in the dark. We light a fire from which the Easter candle is lit and then process into a darkened Church lit only by the light of this candle. We proclaim, “Christ our Light.” In this simple earthly action we proclaim the truth that in a world dark with sin, the Light of Christ bursts forth in His Resurrection. In this historic moment Light conquered the darkness of sin, redemption was accomplished, the eternity of our lives revealed and hope was restored.

In every age there are events that cause us to feel that darkness is surrounding us and today, with the recent economic troubles, natural disasters and other issues, we may feel the same way. This darkness can seem so dark that it feels impossible to overcome. But the wonderful power of light is that no matter how dark it is, the smallest candle has the power to overcome the darkness. We are an Easter people. We are children of the Light. We embrace the Light of Christ and it dispels the darkness of our lives

Pope Benedict XVI holds a candle as he celebrates the Easter Vigil. (CNS photo/Giampiero Sposito, Reuters)

and frees us to live as People of Hope, Faith and Charity.

As a People of Hope we are able to face the darkness of the crucifixion because the hope of the resurrection is still greater. It is, in fact, so great that the cross of Jesus, His very death, is now a sign of hope. Our hope in Christ is not that everything will work out as we want, but rather that in the face of any difficulty, even death, the Lord will show us a new way so wonderful that even our difficulty becomes a witness of the power of His redeeming Love.

As a people of Faith we navigate our lives in challenging times with the Catholic moral and ethical beliefs of our faith. Unfortunately, in hard times we are tempted to cut corners or rationalize our moral integrity. So we steal a little, cheat, even lie because we are afraid and believe that it is the only way to get through difficult times. No! In times of crisis and in difficult times we need all the more to trust in the way of the Lord.

Listen to the guidance of the Church and act out of our faith—that Jesus is the Way the Truth and the Life. Believe that if we trust in His way we will not only get through a tough time but grow

as men and women of faith.

The Resurrection also calls us to be People of Charity. In hard times we tend to take care of ourselves because we are afraid we do not have enough.

The antidote to our fear is to reach beyond ourselves to help others even when we need help. One of the great healings in Charity is that we break out of our small world of worry and in helping others find new purpose. Our love creates a light that dispels the darkness in our lives and in the lives of others.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta reminds us, “Never let anything so fill you with sorrow that you forget the power of the Risen Christ.” So do not be overcome by the darkness. Light has conquered the Darkness. Hope in the Lord!

Rejoice all creation!

Jesus Christ, our King is Risen!

Sound the trumpet of salvation!

Christ has conquered!

Glory fills you!

Darkness vanishes forever!

(Easter Proclamation Prayer) — Most Rev. Michael G. Duca Bishop of the Diocese of Shreveport

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CC | Look Back

St. Matthew Church Celebrates Historic Saint Joseph Altar relief from the drought. Standing by the St. Joseph altar at St. Matthew Church are Maria Maggio, General Coordinator, Rita Scalia Morrison, Angie Maggio, Historian and When the Mr. Jerry Daigle who helps to make the altar a big success. famine water and became a mainstay for the ended, they prepared a table with a people of Sicily. Usually a cake in the special assortment of foods they had form of a lamb is visible as a sign of the harvested. After paying honor to St. first offering of the Lord, Jesus as the Joseph in thanksgiving, the food was Lamb of God. The sesame seeds signify distributed to the less fortunate. the beginning of life while the boiled The celebration in Monroe has always eggs symbolize the birth of Christ. Fish been tied to donations of non-perishable is usually found on the altar as it was the food items and monetary offerings for food of the sea that also helped sustain the benefit of the St. Vincent de Paul’s the people of Sicily during the drought. food pantry for the Eastern Deanery.

The altar is constructed at the foot of There is a rich symbolism in many of the St. Joseph side altar in St. Matthew. the items on the altar. The altar itself is On Saturday, March 14, Fr. James thought to be the medium for the many Dominic Thekkemury, celebrated the petitions and prayers of thanksgiving.

4:00 p.m. Vigil Mass. At the end of It is usually constructed in three Mass, Fr. James blessed the altar with tiers to signify the Holy Trinity. The incense followed by a procession from “lucky bean,” or fava bean, serves as a church to the social hall where he reminder of God’s provisions through blessed a delicious traditional Italian the intercession of St. Joseph. During the meal of meatless spaghetti sauce with drought, the fava bean survived without pasta, boiled eggs, salad and bread.

Everyone was invited to take a small sack of brightly colored Italian cookies stuffed with figs, sesame flavored cookies and a piece of hard bread that is reputed to calm the fiercest of storms.

In 1983, Governor David C. Treen of Louisiana, proclaimed March 19 as Italian-American Heritage Day in Louisiana, to honor Italian-Americans and thank them for the contributions made to our Nation and our State.

At the date of publication, known additional St. Joseph Altars around the Diocese include, St. Lawrence at Swartz; St. Joseph in Bastrop, St. Pius X in Shreveport, St. Joseph in Shreveport and Mary Queen of Peace in Bossier City.

— Randy Tiller, Mission Effectiveness Pictured is one of St. Joseph, Monroe's earliest St. Joseph Altars.

he oldest continuous St. Joseph Altar, or Table for the Poor, in the Diocese of Shreveport began on March 14, 1956 at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Monroe. The history of this altar dates back to early Monroe Italian families that began the tradition in their homes and places of business. In 1956 a group took this ancient Italian offering of love, thanksgiving and service for our needy sisters and brothers to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroe.

In honor of the solemnity of St. Joseph, this tradition has been renewed continuously by St. Joseph Church in Monroe since 1956. When St. Joseph merged with St. Matthew in 2005, the tradition and the altar moved to St. Matthew Church.

The St. Joseph Altar is a tradition over 500 years old, originating in Sicily. In the middle ages there was a terrible drought. The people of Sicily prayed to Saint Joseph, their patron saint, for

6 Catholic Connection April 2009

LIMEX Program Changed My Life Holly Wilson gained insight through extension program

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A Way to Proclaim Justice

Good Friday remembrance to process through downtown Shreveport

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s Catholics we are called to stand with justice, yet it is not often that we have the opportunity as individuals to make a clear and decisive public statement in support of this essential Christian virtue. This Good Friday, April 10, you have such an opportunity! We invite you to join other Christians throughout the Diocese of Shreveport in proclaiming justice in a very public forum by a special “Way of the Cross” that seeks to unite the suffering of Christ with the suffering that exists in the world today.

This Good Friday remembrance will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church on Texas Street (Douglas Street parking lot) in Downtown Shreveport. Local social justice and service organizations will offer prayers, hymns and reflections at each station. Participants will walk a one-mile course through Downtown Shreveport while stopping at various sites. This eleventh annual liturgy will focus on the passion of Christ as reflected in the eyes of those who suffer abandonment, abuse, illness and poverty.

Bishop Michael Duca will begin the procession with an opening prayer. The 16 participating organizations come from a broad spectrum of creeds, backgrounds and agendas. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is the sponsoring group. Those interested in attending this ecumenical service should gather by 9:00 a.m. on Good Friday in the parking lot of the First United Methodist Church. The service will last approximately an hour and 40 minutes and ample parking is available at the church. Please come and join in this prayerful and reflective liturgy of Christ’s passion that proclaims a spirit of justice to be witnessed by all His followers.

For more information or to donate to help support the Walk for Justice, please call Dotye Sue Stanford at 318841-8208 or shreveportsvdp@yahoo.com.

— Dotye Sue Stanford, St. Vincent de Paul Diocesan Council President

ave you ever wanted a deeper appreciation of Catholic tradition?

Have you ever wondered about Church teaching and why the Church holds the positions it does? I did, so when the opportunity arose to study Catholic theology I jumped at it even though I was teaching full time at ULM, participating in the JustFaith program and teaching for the Greco Institute. Loyola University of New Orleans offered the LIMEX (Loyola Holly Wilson Institute for Ministry Extension) program in Monroe in 2004. It was ideal since I did not have to travel any further than my local parish to attend classes.

I did not know how I was going to pay for the 12 required classes, but each semester I received a scholarship either from my parish or the diocese, and with money I earned by teaching Greco classes, I was able to get the tuition money together.

LIMEX exceeded my every expectation. It has led to such an enrichment of my life that I wish everyone who has a desire for a deeper understanding of their beliefs would have an opportunity to participate in the program.

We began as a group of eight studying together in Monroe, meeting to discuss assigned readings. These were stimulating, thought-provoking discussions among a variety of people. We came to see the world, God and Catholic thinking through each others’ eyes. Our facilitator guided the discussions following Loyola’s sophisticated course designs. At the end of each semester we wrote papers which were sent to readers selected by Loyola for their expertise in various areas of theology.

After six courses in Monroe, I switched to the on-campus program to bring more variety and flexibility into my course of study. I also took two courses in Shreveport through the University of Dallas, which were accepted as electives by Loyola.

LIMEX students choose a focus area. I chose religion and ecology. The material blew me away! I went into these courses thinking I already knew something about science and religion, but I discovered material and authors I had never been exposed to.

One requirement was that I do some nature writing. I didn’t even know what that was, but I did it and learned that it was something I was good at. In fact, I will be publishing a book on Black Bayou National Wildlife Refuge in the near future. I developed a deep appreciation for God’s creation and for the manifestations of divine presence in nature. I explored creative processes that my education in philosophy had ignored.

With all my other commitments and obligations I really didn’t know how I was going to find time for this master’s degree program, but somehow I did! In May, I will receive my master’s degree in Pastoral Studies.

The Diocese of Shreveport plans to start another LIMEX group in the near future. Be looking for “information sessions” in your area. If you are interested in working toward a master’s degree or a certificate, please contact Fr. Pat Madden at the Greco Institute, pmadden@dioshpt.org.

— Holly Wilson, LIMEX Student

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CC | Profile

Priest Spotlight:

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Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze

seriously about what we had discussed, to pray and to ask God for light and direction. A few months later he brought up the subject of the priesthood again and my answer was a resounding “yes”. He made a phone call to Bishop Greco. In September 1946 I was off to the seminary, the beginning of my senior year of high school.

It is very uplifting and pleasing to me to administer the sacraments and to work with and for the people of God. To see and feel the effects of the grace of God in his people is most encouraging. Not having my own family and being able to be a part of every family in the parish is a great reward.

Speaking of role model, I think of Msgr.

Milburn Broussard, my first pastor after ordination, at St. Mary’s Assumption Church, Cottonport, LA. I served with him for almost eight years and it was a pleasure and an honor. He literally took me under his wing and showed me the ropes. He was a true big brother.

In those pre-Vatican II days, the seminary did not teach everyday practices in a parish, no ideas of finances and financial registers, on a tenant farm and hand-me-downs and of sacramental records. No administrative sharing were part of everyday life. Living training was offered. Msgr. Broussard slowly out in the country we rode a school bus on a but surely walked me through each register dirt road 26 miles to the public school. Each and answered all my questions. He took time Saturday morning dad and mother woke the out to go with me on my first sick call. He boys up early. We washed up, dressed, had was there for me. What a role model! breakfast and we were off for a five mile ride From my early years, dad referred to me in a wagon for Mass and Catechism. Imagine as a junk collector and that I have remained.

Mass on Saturday prior to Vatican II. My hobby through the years was to amass In 1938 I attended St. Mary’s Academy all sorts of things. My favorite collections and was taught by the Sisters of Divine were rabbits and eggs. But there were Providence. The sisters very often spoke to several others: decanter bottles, caps, the students of a vocation to the priesthood book matches, and music boxes. or sisterhood as did our pastors, Msgr. Roy I am a people person. I love to visit Aycock and Msgr. John Vandegaer. I heard with people. Listening to them and these various talks but I never took them entering into conversation with them is too seriously. always pleasing, rewarding and relaxing.

It was my week to serve at Mass. After This is the very reason why I choose not to Mass, Msgr. Vandegaer invited me to the retire at age 70. I felt that I would be happier rectory for breakfast. During the meal serving the people of God, hence, I am the he bluntly asked me if I had ever thought parochial vicar at the Cathedral of St. John of becoming a priest. I answered yes and Berchmans. No administrative duties. I told him I had even played priest privately am doing what I was ordained for: saying several times. He proceeded to tell me Mass and preaching, administering the about seminary life: prayer time, studies, sacraments, visiting the sick and shut-ins. recreation, etc. Then he asked me to think It’s a great life. rdained a priest at the Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, Ohio, May 25, 1957 by Cardinal Cicognani for the Diocese of Alexandria, I am a native of Natchitoches Parish.

My parents brought us up in a good moral atmosphere —faith, respect for others and property plus daily prayers.

I grew up in the depression of the 30’s

8 Catholic Connection April 2009

“It is very

uplifting and pleasing to me to administer the sacraments and to work with and for the people of God.”

Easter Reflection

A life celebrated in death and the hope of eternal life

Liturgy Lines: Sing to

the Lord: Music in Divine Worship, Pt. 1

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The resurrection of Christ is depicted in a mosaic at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) (Feb. 20, 2008)

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lleluia…Easter is here!

Recently I received news that a friend of mine died in an automobile crash. The accident occurred while she was bringing a cake to a woman whose son had committed suicide. The weather in the northeast was bad that day, but a friend was in need.

Peg was a mother of seven children, a hospice nurse and an avid fan of the local college basketball team. Her greatest joy was her 19 grandchildren with one on the way. As you might expect, Peg’s family and friends were shocked and immersed in grief over the loss of such a vibrant woman who touched many people’s lives.

During the wake, over 1,000 people moved in and out the funeral home. As they came through the line in the funeral home, I was struck by the fact that it was how Peg lived and not how she died that permeated the conversations. Family, friends and co-workers recalled the many funny and wonderful things that Peg did. They also noted that she could be challenging at times.

Nevertheless, everyone agreed her ultimate goal was to make people feel accepted and loved.

The reality that Peg would no longer be physically with us could not be denied. However, during the funeral Mass, as her seven children and one grandchild read some stories of their mother and grandmother, it became clear that Peg’s life was life-giving and would be remembered by those who loved her.

As a bystander, I began to reflect on the meaning of Easter. As I reflected on Peg’s life and how it was lived, I was reminded in a broader sense of the life of Christ and how he loved and served his brothers and sisters. The Gospels reveal the many ways in which Christ entered into the daily joys and sorrows of human experience. Through his Paschal Mystery, Christ gives meaning to death and witnesses that life is not ended but merely changed. Perhaps that is why the Church sees Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday as one experience. A life celebrated in death and the hope of eternal life. It is no wonder that we Christians love the sounds of Alleluia during the Easter Season.

— Sister Marilyn Vassallo, CSJ Director of Canonical Services

his series will explore the USCCB guidelines for music in the sacred liturgy approved in 2007. This initial article will look at why we sing.

The ability to sing is a gift from God. Music is a sign of God’s love for us and of our love for Him. Singing in the liturgy expresses the sacramental presence of God to His people. We gather week after week to sing psalms and hymns to God with gratitude in our hearts. This sung expression of faith within liturgical celebrations strengthens our faith and draws us into the divinely inspired voice of the Church at prayer.

The primordial song of the liturgy is the canticle of victory over sin and death.

The Paschal hymn does not cease when a liturgical celebration ends. Christ remains with us and leads us through church doors to the whole world, with its joys and hopes, griefs and anxieties.

Charity, justice and evangelization are thus the normal consequences of liturgical celebration. Particularly inspired by sung participation, the body of the Work Incarnate goes forth to spread the Gospel with full force and compassion.

In the liturgy, music performs a ministerial function—that is it serves both the liturgy and the people who have gathered to celebrate the liturgy—and it carries out that function in various ways: 1. Music draws us together in unity.

2. Music at worship is an expression and sharing of faith.

3. Music allows the words of the liturgy to speak more fully.

4. Music expresses a meaning beyond the words.

5. Music sets the tone for the particular feast or season.

As St. Augustine says, “Singing is for the one who loves.” Part 2 of this series will examine our participation in liturgical song.

From Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship, USCCB, Nov. 14, 2007 and Our Song of Praise, Judy Bullock, Ph.D. for FDLC, 2008

— Dianne Rachal, Office of Worship.

9

Renovated center a one-stop location for victims of child abuse n excited crowd gathered around 1700 Buckner Square on March 17 to see the renovated Cara Center open its doors. Christus Schumpert and LSU Health Science Center work together to make the Center possible. Cara Center houses three organizations: Cara, Gingerbread House and Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana, making it a one-stop location for victims of child abuse.

The premiere child abuse center in north Louisiana, Cara Center provides victims with medical care and counseling, and helps them through judicial processes. By combining these programs and services in one building, children can avoid having to go from place to place to receive the care and attention they need.

Bishop Duca blesses Cara Center and the people who work with abused children.

On opening day, Sr. Rose McDermott, a leader in bringing the Cara Center to life, expressed her heartfelt thanks to all who made donations and volunteered, “I want to express my gratitude for taking the Center from a dream to a reality.”

In a special prayer service, Dr. Ann Springer, Medical Director of Cara Center and Pediatric Professor at LSUHSC, read Matthew 19:13-15, “Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray.

The disciples rebuked them, but Jesus said, ‘Let the children come to me, and do not One of the examination rooms at the renovated Cara Center. prevent them; for

the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ After he placed his hands on them, he went away.” These verses struck a chord with all of those who work with abused children.

Bishop Michael Duca blessed the renovated center and those who work for the three organizations, saying, “a blessing calls down God’s protection to protect this place from evil. The work that goes on here is sacred work, holy work.”

At the end of the prayer service pediatricians, counselors and volunteers who work at Cara Center stepped forward to have their hands blessed for their future work with children, and then in turn blessed the hands of helpers in the community.

The renovation of Cara Center is truly a milestone for child abuse victims and the prevention of child abuse in the community.

— Jessica Rinaudo, Editor

Magnificat April Prayer Bunch

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a B.A. in History from the he Magnificat, Nowela Chapter College of St. Rose in Albany, is sponsoring NY, and a M.A. in Sociology a prayer brunch on from the Catholic University Saturday, April 18 from of America in Washington, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. in D.C. Sister Patricia has the Activities Center at served as Executive Director St. Jude Catholic Church of the Catholic League for in Bossier City. The Religious and Civil Rights guest speaker will be in Milwaukee. She has also Sister Patricia Cairns served as Executive Director Sr. Patricia Cairns from Shreveport, LA. of the Lafayette Catholic Sister Patricia Cairns is a Sister of Service Centers and the Opelousas Saint Joseph of Carondelet. She holds Housing Corporation in Louisiana.

10 Catholic Connection April 2009

From 1995-2006, Sister Patricia held the position of Executive Director of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Sister Patricia’s topic will be “Generosity”.

The Magnificat is a ministry for Catholic women and this day is set aside to speak to the hearts of women and rejoice in the presence of the Lord.

Please no children.

Reservations should be made prior to April 15 by calling either Barbara McAlister 318-747-7029, or Helen Langley 318-746-6223.

School News

St. John Berchmans School

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he students at St. John Berchmans school have been maintaining their records for high achievement! On February 14, several students took part in the annual academic rally at Loyola College Prep. Their hard work and dedication to excellence was awarded with several first, second and third wins in various areas as well as the top prize of First Place Sweepstakes!

Additionally, the SJB Science Olympiad team took first place again at the Regional Science Olympiad Competition! The competition was held March 7 in Monroe, where our team medaled in 19 out of 20 events, which included 9 Students from St. John Berchmans School won first place at Loyola College Prep's first place, 6 second place and 3 third place wins. annual academic rally.

— Katie Scibia, Secretary and Reading

St. Joseph School

Our Lady of Fatima School

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ur Lady of Fatima Prekindergarten and Kindergarten classes hosted a wonderful Mardi Gras parade for all of the students and families of the school and parish. Prior to the parade, the children learned about Mardi Gras and decorated wagons to ride as “floats” in the parade which Students Landon Knecht and Karryn Paulsen won a Knights of Columbus essay contest. was lead by Grand Marshall, Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo. The children also t. Joseph School continues to voted on a King and Queen, naming celebrate the accomplishments Kindergarten students Emma Laing of its students on the local, state and Christopher Harper as Fatima and national levels. Eighth grader Karryn Paulsen was selected first place Royalty. Everyone enjoyed the floats, beads and trinkets, music and fun winner for the Knights of Columbus festivities of the day!

Patriotic Essay Contest and seventh grader Landon Knecht received third — Missy McKenzie, Director of Development place. Both wrote essays on “What the American Flag Means to Me.” Fifth grader Danny Medvec and sixth grader Justice Bigham competed at the State level of the Elks Hoop Shoot Free Throw Contest held in Opelousas. Medvec placed 2nd in the 10-11 year old boys division and Bigham placed 4th in the 12-13 year old girls division.

Eighth grader Joshua Ursua defended his title in the Regional Competition of the Scripps National Spelling Bee that was recently held at LSUS and will return to Washington, D.C. in May to compete once again in Our Lady of Fatima students Emma Laing, Christopher Harper, Halee Hansford and the Spelling Bee. Melodi Calhoun participate in Mardi Gras.

— Lucy Medvec, Dir. of Development

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St. Pius X Child Development Center

Members of the Krewe of Atlas Susan Keith, Queen I, and Brett Burdges, King I, visited students at the St. Pius X Development Center to teach them about Mardi Gras.

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he children at St. Pius X Child Development Center were treated to a visit from Atlas King I, Brett Burdges, and Queen I, Susan Keith, on Fat Tuesday, the last day of celebration of the Mardi Gras season.

Brett, a parishioner of St. Pius X Church, and Susan, a parishioner from St. Joseph’s, shared a brief history of Mardi Gras and handed out beads to all the children in attendance.

The teachers had the children prepare for the visit by creating and decorating their own masks and headdresses.

11

Cover Story

Retired Priest , Msgr. Edmund Moore receives applause from Bishop Michael Duca and Fr. Mark Watson for his contributions to Catholic Schools.

Photo by Gary Guinigundo.

his is an updated version of the article I wrote for the April, 2008, edition of the Catholic Connection. While the wonderful people of our diocese have been generous, our need in this area of ministry remains, and I prayerfully ask your attention to the details listed below, and hopefully, your financial gift to this important cause.

What is our Retired Priest Second Collection?

This year, our diocese celebrates the fifth anniversary of our Second Collection to help provide for the financial

needs of our very own retired clergy. This collection aids our Annual Stewardship Appeal and Priest Retirement fund in providing the monthly benefits currently received by our retired clergy.

On Saturday, April 25th, and Sunday, April 26th, every member of our combined worship community will have the opportunity to contribute to this quickly growing need of our local Church.

For

whom is this

Second Collection?

This special collection benefits all of our 17 diocesan priests 70 years of age or older, including those who

Retired Priests Fund by

12 Catholic Connection April 2009

Fr. Joe Martina, Secretary, Priest Retirement Fund

“This special collection benefits all of our 17 diocesan priests 70 years of age or older, including those who graciously remain in active ministry.�

“Every dollar of the monies received through this collection stay within our diocese to assist our own Priests Retirement Fund and the men who benefit from it.” graciously remain in active ministry.

In 2009, these 17 clergy combined will receive $323,124 in retirement benefits with 3/4 of those costs contributed by the Priests Retirement Fund and the remainder provided by the diocese through gifts to our Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal.

Last year, $55,602 was given to this Second Collection for our Priests Retirement Fund, a slight drop from the funds received in 2007. While generous, it still represents only 22% of the burden shouldered by our Priests Retirement Fund for the coming year. This is one of many reasons why this Second Collection is so important.

What

is an

Unfunded Liability?

A liability is a debt owed to a person or company. Most people use the word “liability” to mean a “problem” or “burden.” In accounting terms the word liability refers to a debt.

The greatest debt we owe to our retired clergy is a debt of gratitude to God and to them for their many years of faithful service. The Diocese of Shreveport has agreed to provide these benefits and our Priests Retirement Committee has been working hard for many

Senior Priests, like Fr. Richard Lombard (far right), continue to serve after retirement age.

years to ensure a fair and just life of retirement for these special members of our Church family.

As more of our priests will seek future retirement, this will financially stress both the diocese and our Priests Retirement Fund beyond their current fiscal capabilities.

Currently, there are not enough funds set aside to meet the projected needs of the ever-growing numbers of our retired clergy. This portion of our debt is considered “unfunded.”

An unfunded liability is a financial debt we will owe our retired clergy and this is an amount we do not yet have the funds to pay. As of June 30, 2008, our Priest Retirement Fund had an unfunded liability of approximately $966,380. That is just one reason why this special second collection is so important.

How

can we help our retired

clergy?

Of the many things we can do to help our retired clergy, perhaps the most important is to pray in thanksgiving for our priests and for more vocations to serve our Church and this diocese.

You are also prayerfully encouraged to provide a donation to the upcoming Retired Priest, Msgr. Murray Clayton poses with Second Mr. and Mrs. Sardisco.

Collection taking place on April 25-26, 2009. Every dollar of the monies received through this collection stay within

our diocese to assist our own Priests Retirement Fund and the men who benefit from it.

Looking for a year-end donation that’s tax deductible? Please consider filling out a check made to the Diocese of Shreveport’s Priests Retirement Fund and sending it to the Diocesan Business Office before December 31st of this year.

Another wonderful way to help our retired priests is to include their needs in your will and estate planning. Your designated donation to the Priests Retirement Fund through your estate can truly help in reducing our current unfunded liability challenges.

Finally, we all owe God and our priests a debt of gratitude for providing our Church with their years of service. May we generously express that gratitude as we do all we can to provide for our retired priests!

For those interested in including the Diocese of Shreveport and the Retired Priest Fund in your will, you can use the following sentence in your legal document: “ I give, donate and bequeath unto the Catholic Diocese of Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana the sum of $___________ cash.”

13

Western Deanery Red Mass

Mass to Honor Knights of Columbus

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ed Mass will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Church in Shreveport on Friday, May 1, at 9:00 a.m.

A votive mass offered to invoke the Holy Spirit as the source of wisdom, understanding, counsel and fortitude, the Red Mass is sponsored annually by the Diocese of Shreveport and the Red Mass Society under the auspices of the Shreveport Bar Association.

Red Mass is celebrated throughout the world. Judges, lawyers, law enforcement officers and public officials of all faiths participate. The purpose of the Mass is to evoke God’s blessing and guidance in the administration of justice. The

Knights of Columbus line up inside of Holy Trinity Church at Red Mass.

tradition of Red Mass dates back to 13th Century Europe. It is called “Red Mass” for the color of the vestments worn by the celebrants, which symbolize tongues of fire representing the Holy Spirit.

This year the Mass will recognize and honor Knights of Columbus. Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus from the Bishop Desmond (Shreveport) and Msgr.

Chenevert (Bossier) Assemblies have participated as the Honor Guard at the western deanery Red Mass for the past 16 years. This year Knights of Columbus will be the honorees of the Red Mass in recognition of their untiring devotion to the Church and their assistance to the underprivileged of this area.

Honorable Catherine D. Kimball, Chief Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court will attend the Red Mass. All are most welcome and encouraged to attend.

— Bill Fleming, Red Mass Society

14 Catholic Connection April 2009

St. Terence Church in Many is the home base for "Angels" who aid their community.

Angels in Disguise

Women in Southern Deanery respond to needs of community

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ho are they? The best definition is: All the women who attend church at St. Terence and their friends. Members of this group of women include nonCatholics as well as visitors and camp owners on the lake.

When St. Terence Catholic Mission was relocated to the Toledo Bend Reservoir, there was lots of hope and many visions, but no money. Everything that was accomplished had to be done by volunteers.

One of the first big jobs was to clean and refurbish pews purchased from the fire sale of St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Alexandria. The women of our community worked on this project and also cleaned the church and purchased various items needed for Mass.

In order to raise money to purchase altar supplies, this group collected dues from their “members” ($12.00 a year) and accepted donations.

Father William Carey then suggested that this “organization” be brought under the umbrella of the church so that donations could officially be considered charitable.

The ladies continued to do their work quietly. When they saw something that needed to be done, they did it. Often, people would ask, “Who did that?” and the frequent answer was, “an angel of St. Terence.”

This group has always seen a need to reach out and help people in need in the area. They have had various fundraisers including craft sales, garage sales, raffle ticket sales and collecting Big Star grocery receipts. For a while, they operated a small religious store.

Although no longer in operation, if anyone needs a particular religious

item, the article is easily ordered and quickly delivered.

The ladies have raised thousands of dollars over the years and have helped many people. They have no formal meetings but occasionally get together for coffee or lunch to discuss the various affairs of the club. Major expenditures are usually by telephone canvas for approval.

These special angels have helped many families by purchasing food, clothing, medial supplies, paying utility bills and adopting needy families at Christmas with food and gifts. They help people regardless of race, color or creed.

One of their major projects was helping evacuees of Hurricane Katrina.

Thousands of dollars were raised and spent for clothing, medications, household goods and personal needs.

They have generously given to the Diocesan Service Appeal and the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry at St. Joseph Church in Zwolle. Their unwritten creed is to help ALL of God’s people.

The women prefer to remain anonymous and claim that God knows what they are doing and that is all that is necessary.

If you want to experience one of their activities, come to the 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. Terence any Sunday morning and join the group for coffee, tea or hot chocolate and some of the best pastries you have ever eaten. There is friendly fellowship and everyone is invited.

St. Terence and our community are fortunate to have such active and generous ladies. They quietly do God’s work and set examples of love for God’s people. They are truly “The Angels of St. Terence.”

— E.B. “Buddy” Polson

Diocese to Host Estate Planning Seminar Joe Gilsoul, wills and estate/probate specialist, featured presenter

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who were able to attend he Diocese of Shreveport that event. He has many will host a years of experience in this special seminar legal arena and also has on strategies to employment history with the protect family assets Internal Revenue Service as through integrated a revenue agent and appeals estate and benefits officer. He is one of only planning. It will two attorneys in Louisiana take place at the invited to membership in Catholic Center the Special Needs Alliance, from 10:00 a.m. until a national organization Noon on Saturday, comprising many of the April 25, 2009. nation’s leading disability/ Joe Gilsoul, Wills and Estate/ The featured public benefits lawyers.

Probate specialist to present presenter will be Mr. seminar on Estate Planning.

An overview of practical Joe Gilsoul, a senior and basic methods of legally securing law partner and wills and estate/ your property in accordance with probate specialist in the Shreveport your future desires in light of Federal firm of Weems, Schimpf, Gilsoul, and Louisiana law will be offered by Haines, Landry and Carmouche. Mr. Mr. Gilsoul.

Gilsoul last presented for the diocese Mr. Gilsoul will also discuss in May of 2001, and his information Medicaid planning and a little known was greatly appreciated by those benefit for veterans, Aid & Attendance

that provides nearly $2,000 per month to qualifying veterans, including those without service connected disabilities.

The emphasis of this planning is stretching your assets to provide a better standard of care as you age and avoid impoverishment of your spouse.

This informative and insightful program will be offered free of charge, and helpful materials will be available for all attendees. Seating is limited, and those interested in attending are encouraged to contact the Development Office of the Diocese at 318-868-4441 or 800-256-1542. You may register by email by contacting jwillcox@dioshpt.org.

Competent legal advice on these issues is a real blessing and you are strongly encouraged to attend this event if you are in need of this important information.

— John Mark Willcox, Dir. of Development & Communications

Family Friendly Helpers: Saint Dymphna Patron Saint of mental illness, healthcare workers, incest victims and runaways

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ver the years people may ask you to pray for them, their families and their intentions.

Sometimes the subject or focus of those prayers is depression, bi-polar disorder or Alzheimer’s. When I meet people facing these issues, I ask them if they have heard of Saint Dymphna, the patron saint of mental illness. Although we know all healing is divine, what a comfort it is to know someone is busy praying for us and our loved ones.

St. Dymphna was born in seventh century Ireland which was almost universally Catholic. Her father, a chieftain, was a pagan and a man of great wealth and influence. Her mother was of noble descent and a devout Christian. Dymphna was a sweet and attractive girl, who bore a striking resemblance to her mother.

When Dymphna was about 14, her mother died and her father was afflicted with a mental illness brought on by grief. So great was the void in his life, he sent messengers to find

him a suitable partner. When none could be found, the messengers suggested Dymphna due to her striking resemblance to her mother. Under the stress of the mental illness Dymphna’s father was willing to follow this scandalous proposal.

Saint Dymphna Disgusted by the idea, Dymphna vowed a life of virginity.

With her priest and two friends she fled the country to Belgium. Despite her escape, her father found her and tried to persuade her to return and be his wife.

The priest rebuked him and Dymphna’s father had the priest and Dymphna beheaded. She was only 15 years old when she died.

Her feast day is celebrated May 15. In addition to the following prayer there is also a Chaplet and a novena seeking her

intercession.

Prayer in Honor of St. Dymphna Lord Jesus Christ, You have willed that St. Dymphna should be invoked by thousands of clients as the patroness of nervous and mental disease and have brought it about that her interest in these patients should be an inspiration to and an ideal of charity throughout the world.

Grant that, through the prayers of this youthful martyr of purity, those who suffer from nervous and mental illnesses everywhere on earth may be helped and consoled. I recommend to You in particular…(here mention those you wish to pray for.)

Be pleased to hear the prayers of St. Dymphna and of Your Blessed Mother.

Give those whom I recommend the patience to bear with their illness and conditions and comfort in Your Divine will. Give them the consolation they need and especially the cure they so much desire, if it be your will.

— Kim Long, DRE, St. Mary of the Pines

15

Priest.” During his talk, Fr. Karl shared his experiences with the group and emphasized his love of the priesthood. He talked about the joy of helping connect people’s lives to God, as well as some of the challenges and how to view them in a positive light. Fr. Daigle emphasized that “Being a priest is an exciting adventure.”

Fr. Charles Glorioso, Fr. Peter Mangum, Fr. Andre McGrath and Fr. Ken Williams gave reflections on being priests. During their discussions, they shared their stories of their calls to the priesthood. Fr. Peter Mangum spoke to the group about the calling he experienced in 5th grade. Fr. Ken Williams said he “felt nourishment when praying about a vocation,” went to the seminary at 15 and experienced a “private, personal encounter”. Fr. Andre McGrath felt “the sense of the mission A panel of priests share their experiences with men interested in the to the poor”. He also explained priests may be pastors, priesthood. teachers and lawyers. Fr. Charles Glorioso said the Jesuits asked him to consider a vocation, and he heard God call him to be a priest. Fr. Charles emphasized that, “One’s calling is Bishop Duca and Diocesan priests discussed the personal and unique.” priesthood with men interested in learning more Priests also participated in a question and answer session about a possible vocation during which young men and their families asked questions. n Saturday, February 14, Bishop Duca hosted a dinner One attendee asked about the level of academic difficulty of seminary. Bishop Duca, having served as a seminary rector, at the Catholic Center for priests and young men interested in learning more about a possible vocation answered that seminary is challenging, “As it should be. to the priesthood. Operation Andrew is a vocation awareness Seminary is about education and formation. Divine Providence program to promote diocesan priesthood. The name comes will work it out”. He further explained the three parts of the from the account of Andrew bringing his brother Peter to meet seminary’s purpose: Spirituality—about Christ; Academic— Jesus. The priests in our diocese want to follow Andrew’s how to study; and Pastoral—how to care for others. lead and bring their “brothers” to the Lord. Diocesan In his address to the group, Bishop Duca shared his Vocations Director, Rev. David Richter, organized the event experiences as well. He said he heard the call during the 8th and welcomed 10 young men, members of their families, their grade, and he wanted to help others. Further, he said, a call priests and members of the Serra Club to the event. will be continual signs, and he hoped to be available to help The day was filled with many events. Fr. Karl Daigle discern those signs. presented the topic “The Joys and Challenges of Being a — Casey Simpson

Andrew Dinner for Vocations

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2 0 0 9 D i o ce s a n s tew 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 $_______

$_____________

Print Name_ ______________________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________________________________State_________Zip Code____________

Diocese of Shreveport The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104

16 Catholic Connection April 2009

My / Our Church Parish_ ___________________________________________________________________ Signature_ ________________________________________________________________________________ You may make a credit card payment online at: www.dioshpt.org (Click on Stewardship)

Hispanic Corner

Calendario Diocesano del Mes de Abril

Nuestra Página Misterio o Triduo Pascual

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l Misterio o Triduo Pascual es el acontecimiento mayor en la vida de los cristianos. Se le llama Misterio porque es tan maravilloso e inmenso que aunque lo vivimos con Jesús una vez al año seguirá siendo el misterio del Hijo de Dios. Se le llama triduo porque es un solo acontecimiento que se vive en tres días: Jueves Santo, se comienza con el establecimiento de la Eucaristía cuando Jesús después de partir el pan enseñó a sus discípulos a servir los unos a los otros con el ejemplo vivo de lavarles los pies a los doce. Después de la Cena se aleja a orar toda la noche y les pide que oren con Él.

Viernes Santo acompañamos a Jesús en sus sufrimientos de humillaciones al ser insultado, desnudado y escupido; sufrimientos de dolor físico al ser torturado, coronado con espinas, clavado en la cruz; el sufrimiento de soledad al sentir que Su Padre lo abandonaba y finalmente el sufrimiento de agonía al entregar su Espíritu al Padre. El dolor de su Madre al verlo desfallecido, deshecho, martirizado y sin vida. El mismo Viernes un buen hombre llamado José pidió a Pilato lo dejara enterrar el cuerpo de Jesús para que no se quedara en la cruz

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

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

Representante: Maria Lopez Tel: 318-285-9145 Mansfield: St. Joseph 305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield 2do Domingo 2:00 p.m.

Abril 5, Domingo de Ramos, bendición de palmas y procesiones antes de las Misas

el sábado que era día de reposo.

Sábado Santo, aun siendo el día de reposo, los soldados vigilaron el sepulcro por miedo de que alguien se robara el cuerpo y proclamaran que Jesús había resucitado. Sin embargo después de un día de entierro, Jesús vence la muerte y muy tempranito el Domingo de Pascua resucita de entre los muertos. Este es el día de Fiesta, este es el día que Jesús vence todo mal y resucita con su cuerpo glorioso mostrándonos su gloriosa divinidad. Vivamos pues el resto de la Cuaresma, la Semana Santa, desde su entrada a Jerusalén el Domingo de Ramos hasta su gloriosa resurrección y toda nuestra vida de cristianos con la confianza de que como Jesús, nosotros también seremos resucitados en su gloria y ocuparemos el lugar que Él nos tiene separado junto al Padre.

Recordemos que después de su gloriosa resurrección, Jesús estuvo en la tierra cuarenta días más antes de ascender al Padre. ¡Aleluya!

y 3er Martes 6:30 p.m.

Representante: Teresa Pérez Tel: 318-871-8037 Minden: St. Paul 410 Fincher Road, Minden Viernes 7:00 p.m.

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

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

Abril 6, Conferencia para parejas que quieran casarse por la iglesia de 5-8 p.m. (especialmente parejas que viven en unión libre y no han recibido la bendición del matrimonio).

Abril 7, 5:30 p.m. Cathedral de San Juan Berchmans, La Misa del Santo Crisma Abril 9-12, Misterio Pascual (La Pasión de Jesus, su muerte y triunfante resurrección) Abril 10, 9-11 a.m. Vía Crucis en el centro de Shreveport, saliendo de la iglesia grandota en la calle Texas y ofrecido por la Justicia Social.

Abril 12, Segunda Colecta dedicada al trabajo de tener más Vocaciones Sacerdotales y Religiosas Abril 26, Segunda Colecta dedicada a los sacerdotes jubilados

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

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

Representante: Carmen Bradford Tel: 318-671-9111 West Monroe: St. Paschal 711 N 7th Street, W. Monroe Domingo 2:30 p.m.

Representante: Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora Interina del Ministerio Hispano •318-219-7265 Blanca Belaire, Secretaria •318-219-7257 Rev. Al Jost, Coordinador de La Vicaría del Este • 318-243-0115

17

News Briefs by

Catholic News Service

Pope Benedict XVI greets people at the end of his meeting with Cameroon bishops in the Church of Christ the King in the Tsinga quarter of Yaounde March 18. (CNS photos/Alessandro Bianchi, Reuters) (March 18, 2009)

In Africa, pope says Gospel continent’s problems

is answer to

YAOUNDE, Cameroon (CNS) -- Arriving in Africa, Pope Benedict XVI said the church’s message of hope and reconciliation was sorely needed by a continent suffering disproportionately from poverty, conflict and disease. At a welcoming ceremony March 17 in Yaounde, the pope said he was making his first visit to Africa to respond to the many men and woman who “long to hear a word of hope and comfort.”

In Africans’ fight against injustice, he said, the church is their natural ally. “In the face of suffering or violence, poverty or hunger, corruption or abuse of power, a Christian can never remain silent,” the pope said.

The 81-year-old pontiff stood on a platform at Yaounde’s airport next to Cameroonian President Paul Biya, who welcomed the pope on a hot, humid afternoon. Groups of schoolchildren sang and cheered, waving paper flags with the Vatican’s colors. The pope said he came to Africa as a pastor, not a politician, to a continent where the saving message of the Gospel needs to be “proclaimed loud and clear.” The encounter with Christianity, he said, can transform situations of hardship or injustice.

New Orleans auxiliary to head Biloxi Diocese

bishop named

WASHINGTON (CNS) -Pope Benedict XVI has named Auxiliary Bishop Roger P. Morin of New Orleans to head the Diocese of Biloxi, Miss. The appointment was announced in Washington March 2 by Archbishop Pietro Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the United States. Bishop Morin’s predecessor in Biloxi now is the head of the Archdiocese of Mobile, Ala., Bishop Roger P. Morin Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi.

He has been apostolic administrator of the Mississippi diocese since his April 2008 appointment to Mobile.

Bishop Morin, who turns 68 March 7, has been a New Orleans auxiliary since 2003. He will be installed as the third bishop of Biloxi April 27 at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Biloxi.

In a statement he said he greeted his appointment with “open arms” and asked for the prayers of clergy, religious and laity, all of whom “will be my co-workers in this vineyard of the Lord.” He said he will go to Biloxi as a neighbor, as one who has weathered “the fearsome storms of years gone by” and, like the people of Biloxi, as a survivor of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Pope

declares year of the priest to inspire spiritual perfection

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI declared a year of the priest in an effort to encourage “spiritual perfection” in priests. The pope will open the special year with a vespers service at the Vatican June 19 -- the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the day for the sanctification of priests. He will close the celebrations during a World Meeting of Priests in St. Peter’s Square June 19, 2010. The pope made the announcement during an audience March 16 with members of the Vatican Congregation for Clergy. He Pope, on plane, says church can help Africa address its problems met with some 70 participants of the congregation’s ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT TO CAMEROON (CNS) -- Making March 16-18 plenary assembly, which focused on the his first trip to Africa, Pope Benedict XVI said the Catholic Church missionary identity of the priest and his mission to can help bring answers to the continent’s chronic problems, including sanctify, teach and govern. During this jubilee year, poverty, AIDS and tribalism. Speaking to reporters aboard his Alitalia the pope will also proclaim St. John Vianney to be chartered jet March 17, the pope strongly defended the church’s efforts patron saint of all the world’s priests. At present he to fight AIDS and said condom distribution only made the problem is considered the patron saint of parish priests. This worse. “One cannot overcome the problem with the distribution of year marks the 150th anniversary of the death of this condoms. On the contrary, they increase the problem,” the pope said.

19th-century saint who represents a “true example of Nor can the AIDS pandemic be confronted only with aid programs, he a priest at the service of the flock of Christ,” the pope said. What the church teaches, he said, is “humanization of sexuality” said. St. John Vianney is widely known to Catholics and sexual responsibility on the one hand, and a willingness to be as the Cure (parish priest) of Ars who won over the present with those who are suffering, on the other hand. He pointed to hearts of his villagers in France by visiting with them, the many church programs currently helping AIDS victims and said the teaching them about God and reconciling people to church’s contribution had led to real and visible progress. the Lord in the confessional.

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Holy Hour for Vocations at Christ the King Parishioners and clergy join together to pray for vocations

Fr. Joseph Howard, Fr. David Richter and Fr. Charles Glorioso kneel before the Blessed Sacrament.

C

hrist the King hosted a Eucharistic Holy Hour praying for vocations on Saturday, February 28. Fr. David Richter was the presider. Fr Charles Glorioso and Fr. Joseph Howard also assisted. The Holy Hours are sponsored by the Office of Vocations. It is hoped that each parish will continue to pray for vocations in their own way whether through more Holy Hours or a Rosary prayer service.

Christ the King prays a special prayer after each weekend mass for vocations.

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, reading of the gospel, praying the rosary, singing a litany, and benediction were all included in the Holy Hour. Fr. David gave an inspiring homily.

He thanked the congregation for attending and reminded them that this was time spent in the real presence of Jesus Christ and that they are judged by “the company they keep.”

Christ the King was blessed with many lay volunteers assisting with the Holy Hour: Joseph Glorioso, JoAnn Dulaney, Rosalyn Davis, Tom McCalister, Andi Grill, Donald Woodward, June Woodward, Jim McCalister and Frances McCalister. A special thank you goes out to the members of the Serra Club who also volunteered their time and talents.

The next Holy Hour will be at Sacred Heart on Thursday, April 30th at 6:00 p.m. If you would like to see pictures of the Holy Hour at Christ the King please visit our website www. christthekingbossier.org. Thanks go to Jim Barnard for the wonderful pictures!

— Nancy Miller, Christ the King Church

April 2009 Calendar

All events are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

April 2: April 4: April 5: April 6:

April 7: April 8: April 9:

April 10:

April 11: April 12:

April 16: April 18: April 19:

April 21:

April 22: April 23:

April 24:

April 25:

April 26:

April 28:

April 29:

April 30:

Francis of Paola, hermit Isidore, bishop & doctor Palm Sunday Holy Week Begins Catholic Schools in Shreveport Spring Break Begins Chrism Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 5:30pm Protecting God's Children, Catholic Center, 6:00pm Holy Thursday Passover Begins Catholic Connection Deadline for May Issue Good Friday Catholic Center Closed Second Collection: Holy Land Way of the Cross, First United Methodist Church, Downtown Shreveport, 9:00am Second Collection: Church Vocations Easter Sunday Second Collection: Church Vocations Serra Club Meeting, Catholic Center, 12:00pm Fr. Larry Niehoff's 45th Anniversary to the Priesthood Second Sunday of Easter: Divine Mercy Sunday Orthodox Easter Diocesan Liturgical Commission Meeting, Fairview House Conference Room, 12:30pm Anselm, bishop & doctor Administrative Professionals Day Advisory Board for Religious, Catholic Center, 11:30am George, martyr Adalbert, bishop & martyr Fr. Gary Bernhardt's 10th Anniversary to the Priesthood Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest & martyr Second Collection: Retired Priests Mark, evangelist Second Collection: Retired Priests Third Sunday of Easter Peter Chanel, priest, martyr Louis Mary de Montfort, priest Bishop Michael Duca's 31st Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood Catherine of Siena, virgin & doctor Holy Hour for Vocations, Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 6:00pm Pius V, pope 19

DIOCESE

OF

3500 Fairfield Ave.

SHREVEPORT •

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

2009 Rite of Election March 1, 2009 Cathedral of St. John Berchmans

20 Catholic Connection April 2009