Catholic Connection

Vol. 22, No. 9 April 2013

World Welcomes

Pope Francis Argentina's Cardinal Bergoglio Elected Pope; Begins Papacy

by Pledging to Protect Church and Human Dignity

April 2013 1

bishop’s april calendar Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Contributors Sam Alzheimer Shelly Bole Bishop Michael Duca Kim Long Theresa Mormino Fr. Rothell Price Jessica Rinaudo Francis X. Rocca

Marilú Rodríguez Katie Sciba Randy Tiller John Vining Mike Van Vranken Vicki Wallace John Mark Willcox Cindy Wooden

Editorial Board Kim Long Fr. Matthew Long Kelly Phelan Powell Dianne Rachal Christine Rivers Mike Whitehead John Mark Willcox Mission Statement 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.

Subscriptions & Address Changes Contact: Jessica Rinaudo, Editor Email: jrinaudo@dioshpt.org Write: Catholic Connection 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 Call: 318-868-4441 Fax: 318-868-4609 Website: www.thecatholicconnection.org

APRIL 2 Episcopal Ordination of Most Reverend David P. Talley; Cathedral of Christ the King, Atlanta, GA

Flower of Jesus Church, Monroe; 7:00 p.m.

APRIL 6 Loyola College Prep vs. Bishop Lynch High School Softball Game; Bishop Lynch High School, Dallas, TX

APRIL 20 Living the Eucharist Evaluation & Celebration Gathering; Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe; 9:30 a.m.

APRIL 7 Confirmation; St. Paul Church, Minden; 11:00 a.m.

2013 Holocaust Remembrance Service; Haynes Avenue Baptist Church, Shreveport; 3:00 p.m.

APRIL 21 Confirmation; Christ the King Church, Bossier City; 8:00 a.m.

APRIL 9 Year of Faith Parish Visit; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 6:30 p.m.

Confirmation (Hispanic Community); Christ the King Church, Bossier City; 3:00 p.m.

APRIL 10 Year of Faith Parish Visit; St. Lawrence Church, Swartz; 6:00 p.m.

APRIL 22 Living the Eucharist Evaluation & Celebration Gathering; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 6:30 p.m.

APRIL 13 Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Castille 197 Court’s 100th Anniversary Mass; St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 10:00 a.m.

APRIL 13-14 Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem Southeastern Lieutenancy Annual Meeting and Investiture Ceremonies; Birmingham, AL APRIL 15 Year of Faith Parish Visit; St. Paul Church, Minden; 6:00 p.m.

APRIL 16 Year of Faith Parish Visit; St. Lucy Church, Hodge; 6:15 p.m.

APRIL 17 Year of Faith Parish Visit; St. Clement Church, Vivian; 5:30 p.m.

APRIL 18 Year of Faith Parish Visit; Little

APRIL 23 Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops’ meeting; Baton Rouge APRIL 24 St. Francis Medical Center Board of Directors’ Meeting; Monroe; 11:30 a.m.

APRIL 26 Confirmation; St. John the Baptist Church, Many; 6:00 p.m.

APRIL 27 Confirmation; St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport; 4:00 p.m.

APRIL 28 Confirmation; St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Ruston; 9:30 a.m.

Confirmation; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 5:30 p.m.

APRIL 29 Year of Faith Parish Visit; St. Margaret Church, Homer; 6:00 p.m.

Congratulations to the District and Diocesan Schools Student of the Year Winners!

The Catholic Connection is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

The Diocese of Shreveport complies with Virtus’s Protecting God’s Children program. Classes are offered every second Wednesday of the month at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. To report child sexual abuse by a cleric or church worker in the Diocese of Shreveport, call Glennda Lawson.

Hotline is 318-294-1031 and your local law enforcement agency.

2 Catholic Connection

5TH GRADE Ethan Lancaster Jesus the Good Shepherd School Monroe

8TH GRADE John Ellender St. Frederick High School Monroe

12TH GRADE Bailey Monsour Loyola College Prep Shreveport

contents

april 2013

columns Pope Francis: Hope for Renewal of the Church and Ourselves

by Bishop Michael G. Duca.............................................................................................. 4-5 Mike’s Meditations: What Would You Feed Jesus for Lunch?

by Mike Van Vranken.................................................................................................6 Second Collections: Home Mission Appeal by Fr. Rothell Price ..........................6 Domestic Church: Baptism: Beginning the Sacraments by Katie Sciba............................7

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Continue Celebrating the Easter Season by Katie Sciba .......................................7 School News ...........................................................................................................8 Appeal Ministries: Office of Worship by John Mark Willcox ......................................9 Moveable Feast: The Extravagant Love of Easter by Kim Long ............................9 Documents of Vatican II: Perfectae Caritatas by Mike Van Vranken .................10 Decree on the Adaptation and Renewal of Religious Life

Year of Faith Saint: St. Mother Théodore Guérin, SP by USCCB...........................10 Navigating the Faith: Confirmation by Shelly Bole ...............................................11

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features Argentina's Cardinal Bergoglio Elected Pope, Chooses Francis

by Francis X. Rocca and Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service .............................. 12-13 Pope Francis' Inauguration Pope Francis begins papacy pledging to protect church, human dignity

by Cindey Wooden..............................................................................................................14

news Catholic Charities Update by Theresa Mormino....................................................15 Mission Possible: Weekend Adventure Camp for Boys by Sam Alzheimer..........15-16

15 on the cover

Encounter Youth Event Drew 300 Young Catholics by John Vining.....................16 Sr. Marilyn Vassallo Says Farewell After 15 Years of Service byJessica Rinaudo.....................................................................................................17 Pro-Life Oratory Contest by Vicki Wallace..............................................................17 Hispanic Corner by Marilú Rodríguez.......................................................................18 Across the Globe by Catholic News Service...........................................................19

Pope explains how he chose St. Francis of Assisi's Name; Vatican releases papal Coat of Arms, motto by English Doctor of Church

Vatican News and Notes by Catholic News Service..............................................19 Around the Diocese ...............................................................................................20-21 Upcoming Events....................................................................................................22 April Calendar ........................................................................................................23 Picture of the Month by Fr. Peter Mangum.............................................................24

Pope Francis waves to the audience in Paul VI hall as he meets with journalists March 16 at the Vatican.

(CNS photo/Marcin Mazur, Bishops' Conference of England and Wales)

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LA REFLEXIÓN del obispo

por Obispo Michael G. Duca

Su Santidad el Papa Francisco: Esperanza de una Renovación de la Iglesia y de Nosotros Mismos

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En la tarde del 13 de marzo escuchamos la proclamación, “Habemus Papam”, y supimos que teníamos un nuevo papa. Desde los primeros momentos de su papado, el Papa Francisco capturó la atención no solo de católicos activos sino de católicos no practicantes, de miembros de otra fe e inclusive de los aun no creyentes. Su amor por los pobres y la abstinencia inicial de algunos de los símbolos y privilegios han cambiado ya el papado.

(CNS photo/Alessia Giuliani, Catholic Press Photo) Pero este cambio nos ha estado pasando por enfrente ya por años. El Papa Pablo corazón porque nos recuerdan partes de I, el día de la Misa que comenzó su papado, las enseñanzas de Jesus que como católicos cambió el título del evento de la Misa de sabemos son verdad pero con frecuencia Coronación a Misa de la Investidura. En esta evadimos. singular acción removió la poderosa imagen Aunque entendemos que le Santo Padre que estaba más conectada con la realeza que no cambiará las enseñanzas permanentes de con el ministerio de Pedro como “Servidor la Iglesia, todos esperamos una verdadera de Servidores.” Juan Pablo II en un espíritu renovación en la iglesia. Más que nada de Juan Pablo I salió de los confines del queremos y podemos esperar genuinamente Vaticano y visitó a la gente del mundo en sus una administración renovada de la Iglesia, de pueblos, haciendo viajes en todo el mundo. una colaboración más grande con la iglesia El Papa Benedicto XVI en sus escrituras y local o cambios en algunas de las prácticas proclamaciones comenzó a llamar la Iglesia a cambiables de la Iglesia. Pero hay que la necesidad de una nueva evangelización que notar que cuando pensamos en renovación enfatizó al salir hacia la gente con el mensaje en la iglesia la vemos como algo fuera de del amor de Dios revelado en Jesucristo. nosotros y solo en áreas específicas en las que El Papa Francisco ahora nos lleva al tenemos preocupación o en las que estamos próximo paso en la renovación de la Iglesia: involucrados personalmente. Ya escuché a cualquier nueva evangelización debe actuar alguien decir, por ejemplo, “me gusta mucho en cuidado y preocupación hacia los pobres. lo que el papa está haciendo, pero espero De hecho, el Papa nos da la impresión de que no vaya muy lejos y tire toda la ‘pompa que no es suficiente cuidar de los pobres y ceremonia.’” Con frecuencia queremos sino también servirlos. El Papa Francisco ha renovación, pero solo en un área específica y dicho que desea una Iglesia que sea pobre. no en una manera que cambie nuestras vidas.

Las acciones de amor y simplicidad del Papa En esta actitud está la razón por la que Francisco dicen más que las palabras. Mi necesitamos templar nuestro entusiasmo reacción inmediata es de emoción y gozo con para que cuando el Papa Francisco hable la elección de ESTE nuevo Papa. de convertirnos en una Iglesia pobre Aun así la emoción e inspiración que estemos listos para contestar su llamado sentimos es algo que debemos mantener en a una renovación personal de nuestra fe. calma (templarnos) si vamos a permitir a este La verdadera renovación de la Iglesia se papa que nos dirija a una renovación. Uso convertirá en realidad cuando acojamos una la palabra calma no para decir que seamos conversión de corazón más profunda con un menos entusiastas y con esperanza, sino para nuevo deseo de vivir nuestras vidas a la luz que profundicemos nuestra determinación de nuestra fe en Jesucristo y Su Iglesia. Esta – así como el acero se tiene que templar renovación necesita ser parte de las decisiones para hacerse más fuerte. Las palabras y que tomamos en nuestras vidas, para reflejar acciones del Papa Francisco nos llegan al el ejemplo de Cristo en la manera que 4 Catholic Connection

actuamos, en como gastamos nuestro dinero, en como oramos, y en como el Papa Francisco esta ya comenzando a mostrarlo de una manera clara, como atender al pobre y necesitado. El Papa Francisco ha sido llamado por el Espíritu para ayudarnos a ver lo que significa ser un católico en el mundo de hoy.

Cuando nos predique los desafíos del Evangelio, ¿Escucharemos y trataremos de seguirlo? O cuando el Santo Padre, a quien ahora amamos mucho, nos enseñe como debe actuar un Cristiano en su vida financiera, en su vida personal o describa el servicio a los pobres de una manera que es exigente, ¿Perderemos entonces nuestro entusiasmo y comenzaremos a llamarlo liberal o conservador para poder escaparnos de las exigencias del Evangelio que nos predique y continuar la manera en la que queremos vivir?

Yo creo que el entusiasmo que sentimos viendo el ministerio que nos ha revelado el Papa Francisco es verdadero efecto de la gracia. Este puede ser el Espíritu de Dios desmontando algunas partes de los aspectos cambiables de la Iglesia que nos han servido en el pasado para que pueda surgir algo más nuevo y efectivo. Yo se que el cambio es difícil y que debemos de esperar y ver lo que cambie en verdad para bien, bajo el liderazgo del papa. Aunque yo sé ya que está sorprendiendo lleno de esperanza con su estilo simple, su manera auténtica de hablar y el amor por los pobres esta llegando mas allá de la iglesia y está captando la imaginación y los corazones de los católicos que no están practicando, los que no conocen la iglesia y los que no creen. Si esto es lo que un hombre puede hacer en los Zapatos del Pescador, cuan más efectivo sería el mensaje de Cristo si toda la Iglesia comienza a seguir su ejemplo.

Oremos por nuestro nuevo Papa, Francisco. También oremos por corazones abiertos para que nuestro entusiasmo presente nos lleve a una conversión más profunda de corazón para que Cristo viva más verdaderamente en nuestras vidas y en nuestras parroquias.

bishop’s reflection

by Bishop Michael G. Duca

POPE FRANCIS: Hope for Renewal of the church & Ourselves

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n the afternoon of March 13th we heard the proclamation, Habemus Papam, and we knew we had a new pope.

From the first moments of his papacy Pope Francis captured the attention of not only active Catholics, but also of fallen away Catholics, members of other faiths and even the Bishop Duca unchurched. His love for the poor and his initial forgoing of some of the symbols of privilege have already changed the papacy.

But this change has been happening before our eyes for years. John Paul I changed the title of the Mass that began his papcy from Coronation Mass to Mass of Investiture. In this singular action he removed a powerful image that was more connected to royalty than to the ministry of Peter as “Servant of the Servants.” John Paul II picked up on the spirit of John Paul I. He left the confines of the Vatican and visited the people of the world in their homelands, making trips all over the globe. Pope Benedict XVI in his writings and preaching began to move the Church to the need for a new evangelization that emphasized going out to the people with the message of God’s love revealed in Jesus Christ.

Pope Francis now brings the next step in the renewal of the Church: any new evangelization must act with care and concern for the poor. In fact, he hints that it is not just enough to care for the poor, but to serve them. Pope Francis has even said he desires a Church that is poor. This powerful language is exciting to hear, and even though every pope in my lifetime has preached the same thing, Pope Francis’ actions of love and simplicity speak louder than words. My immediate reaction is one of excitement and joy with the election of THIS new Pope.

Yet the excitement and inspiration we feel is something we may need to temper if we are to allow this pope to lead us into a new renewal. I use the word temper not to say we should not be less enthusiastic and hopeful, but rather to deepen our resolve

– like steel is tempered to make it stronger. called by the Spirit to help us see what it Pope Francis’ words and actions move our means to be a Catholic in the world today. hearts because they remind us of parts of When he does preach to us the Jesus teaching that we know are true as challenges of the Gospel, will we listen and Catholics but we often try to avoid. try to follow? Or, when the Holy Father, While we understand the Holy who we now love so much, teaches us how Father will not change the unchangeable a Christian is to act in their economic lives, teachings of the Church, we all hope for in their personal lives or describes service a true renewal in the Church. Mostly to the poor in a way that is demanding, we want, and can genuinely hope for, will we then lose our enthusiasm and start the renewal of the administration of the calling him a liberal or a conservative so Church, of a greater collaboration with we can explain away the demands of the the local church or even a change in some Gospel that he preaches and continue the of the changeable practices of the Church. way of life we want?

But notice when we think of renewal in I believe the enthusiasm we feel, as the Church we see it as something outside we watch the ministry of Pope Francis ourselves and in specific areas where we revealed before us, is the true effect of have a personal concern or involvement. grace. This may be the Spirit of God I have already heard someone say, for disassembling some parts of the changeable example, “I like a lot of what the pope is aspects of the Church that served us well in doing, but I hope he doesn’t go too far and the past so a new and effective witness can throw out all the ‘pomp and ceremony.’” emerge. I know change is difficult and we We often want renewal, but only in a still must wait and see what will actually specific area change and not in a in a good way that will way under change our this pope’s lives. leadership.

In this But I know attitude lies now his simple the reason style, his we need to authentic way temper our of speaking enthusiasm and love for so that when the poor Pope Francis is reaching talks about beyond the becoming a Church and is Pope Francis kisses a crucifix after arriving to celebrate poor Church capturing the Mass at St. Anne’s Parish within the Vatican. we will be imaginations (CNS photo/L’ Osservatore Romano) ready to and hearts of answer his call to a personal renewal of our fallen away Catholics, unchurched and faith. The true renewal of the Church will non believers in a surprising and hopeful become real when we embrace a deeper way. If this is what one man can do in the conversion of heart with a new desire to Shoes of the Fisherman, how much more live our lives in light of our faith in Jesus effective would the message of Christ be Christ and His Church. This renewal will if the whole Church begins to follow his need to shape the decisions of our lives, example. to reflect the example of Christ in how Let us pray for our new pope, Francis. we act, how we spend our money, how we Let us also pray for open hearts that our pray and, as Pope Francis is beginning to initial enthusiasm will lead us to a deeper point out in a clear way, how we care for conversion of heart so Christ will live more the poor and needy. Pope Francis has been truly within our lives and in our parishes.

April 2013 5

mike’s meditations

by Mike Van Vranken

What Would You Feed Jesus for Lunch?

second collection

by Fr. Rothell Price

second collections Home Mission Appeal

Answering the call to feed the hungry

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f we found out Jesus was coming to town Sunday for lunch, I wonder what kind of event our churches would put together to feed him? We’d provide a spread that would be fit for the king. And, I imagine we would not worry about the cost; not for a meal for Jesus!

Great news! We don’t have to wait until Sunday. We can do it today. It is Jesus himself who tells us: “ ... whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40 NAB) That’s about the most blessed statement I’ve ever heard! Whenever we feed a hungry person, we literally feed Jesus. And, how hard is it to find a hungry person? Well, just drive around your community and it won’t take long. And, there is probably a food shelter or provider already there. All we have to do is help them out – either by donating financially or donating our time. In fact, feeding the hungry is one of the easiest things we can do for Jesus.

Just how important to our walk with God is it to feed Jesus when he’s hungry? “ ... what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.” (Matthew 25:45 NAB) Ouch! That verse is not quite so comforting, is it? If that one made you squirm, read this one: “Those who shut their ears to the cry of the poor will themselves call out and not be answered.” (Proverbs 21:13 NAB) If we want to do something specific for Jesus, and if we want God to answer when we call, feeding a hungry person is one place to begin. Spend time every day asking Jesus just how he wants you to feed him today. He’ll give you answers that will bless you and the hungry person both. What a holy way for us as individuals and for our churches to do something specifically for Jesus in a big way.

Mike started a teaching ministry after graduating from the University of Dallas’ School of Ministry in 2006 (www. mikevanvrankenministries.org). He also serves as an adjunct professor for the Diocese of Shreveport’s Greco Institute.

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Announcement Dates: April 14th & 21st Collection Dates: April 27th & 28th aunched in 1998, the Home Mission Appeal strengthens the Catholic Church in the United States and its territories in 87 Latin and Eastern Catholic dioceses. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ subcommittee on the Catholic Home Missions funds a wide range of pastoral services, including evangelization, religious education, the maintenance of mission parishes, the training of seminarians and lay ministers and ministry with ethnic groups. In our diocese, this means concretely that the Catholic Campus Ministry at the University of Louisiana Monroe receives a grant from the Catholic Home Mission Appeal. The Home Missions Appeal also provides grants to the Office of Church Vocations for the education of our seminarians studying for priestly ministry in our diocese. Our Office of Hispanic Ministry and our Office of Catechesis both receive grants from this second collection. Our mission diocese is one of those fortunate places in the U.S. that receives funding for its spiritual and pastoral well being.

It is a blessing that our diocese receives much more from this second collection than we contribute to it. Every dollar given by the faithful of our diocese comes back to us multiplied.

This is wonderful news because it means we receive the outside funding we would otherwise not have to do the work of Jesus Christ. Especially in these days and times when resources are thin and priests are few, this collection, firmly rooted in your love of the Risen Christ and concern for the spread of the Kingdom, reaches out to those Catholics and un-churched souls in impoverished zones of our diocese, nation and its territories.

Our “mission” diocese is one of the grantees that receive substantial grants from the Catholic Home Missions Appeal.

Please give generously and know your generosity will return to us in a very tangible and sizeable manner. As one of our Catholic hymns proclaims, “Let us build the city of God, may our tears be turned into dancing. For the Lord, our light and life, has turned the night into day. May his Resurrection bring you that peace, which the world cannot give.” Please give generously to the Catholic Home Missions Appeal.

Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General, is the Director of Special Collections

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Continue Baptism: Beginning the sacraments Celebrating the Accepting God’s offer to adopt us and our children Easter Season domestic church

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by Katie Sciba

y Body of husband Christ, and Andrew it will be an and I are just a acceptance of few days into God’s offer of life with three adoption. children; and not But that’s just three children, not all! but three boys.

Baptism, as We welcomed our a Sacrament newest addition of Initiation, Peter last week and is just the our house has been beginning; happily turned Katie and Andrew Sciba at their son Thomas’ baptism. and, as upside down with parents adjusting to life as a family of five. Plenty having a baby baptized, we are committing of preparation went into anticipating to raising Peter (and his brothers) in the Peter’s arrival – a painted nursery, cleaning Catholic faith, and always being the first every square inch of the house – and now ones to open the door to what the Church that he’s here, the preparations continue; teaches. though for a much bigger and profound What’s so amazing about baptism is that, event than his first night at home... his as Catholics, we get to reap its benefits baptism. in our lives all the time. The Catechism I love that we celebrate our boys’ acknowledges baptism as “the door which baptisms as the days when we offer to gives access to the other sacraments” God the gifts He first bestowed upon us.

(CCC #1213). With baptism, the other Our children are such sweet blessings and six sacraments are reachable: sacramental we’re happy to receive them; having them marriage is a school of perfection with each baptized consecrates them to God and spouse sharpening the other; confession offers Him their lives through which to provides the chance to encounter the do His will. Something so significant calls forgiveness of Christ and gain the virtue for an at least basic understanding of what of humility; and, most importantly, the it is we’re actually asking for children in Eucharist is the body, blood, soul and baptism, and how it will affect their souls divinity of Christ Himself and we receive forever. this entire sacramental gift as active “Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Catholics. It’s incredible to know that Christian life,” states the Catechism, and because of Christ and the sacrament of prior to it, we carry the stain of original baptism, we’re able to call God “father,” sin, the effect passed from the fall of and receive His mercy and love in such a Adam and Eve (CCC #1213). Since unique and miraculous way. mankind was enslaved to sin, Christ’s As a Sacrament of Initiation, baptism is death and resurrection redeemed us the gateway to a fully Christian life; a life and God reclaimed us as His own. It’s in which you can have continual exercise through Christ’s sacrifice that we have of its privileges because of the death and the opportunity to accept God’s offer of resurrection of Christ. I can’t imagine a adoption to be made members of the Body greater gift for our new baby Peter than the of Christ. Simply put, baptism allows us sacrament that opens wide the doors of the to become God’s children. The sacrament Catholic faith. itself puts a permanent mark on a person’s Katie Sciba is the author of soul, a mark that means they belong to thecatholicwife.net. She lives in Shreveport Christ. Our son Peter’s baptism will bring with her husband, Andrew, and three sons, him into the Catholic Church, into the Liam,Thomas and Peter.

The Feast of Christ’s Resurrection lasts until the second Sunday of Easter, April 7th this year, and the whole season is celebrated until Pentecost, falling on May 19th.

Keep up the joy of Eastertide in your own domestic church with these fun ideas:

Pray

Pray the Regina Coeli as a family.

Meant for the Easter season, this gem of a Marian prayer isn’t widely known among lay Catholics. Look it up on ewtn.com and pray it after dinner together.

Decorate

Is your parish covered in flowers, whites and pastels? Do the same at your house! Bring in Easter Lilies and bright colors to cultivate a sense of joy and excitement in your own home.

Have Fun!

Egg hunts are a classic way to celebrate Easter, but who says you have to do just one? Have a couple of hunts during Eastertide and remember that they are as ageless as they are timeless. For kids, hide candy or small toys in the eggs; but if your kids are all grown up, they’ll get a kick out of finding loose change or cash.

April 2013 7

school NEWS

^ Jesus the Good Shepherd School’s sixth grade science classes have recently been studying “Forces that Shape the Earth.” Mrs. Katherine High, JGS sixth grade science teacher, came up with an interactive and fun way to review for the tests.

Questions regarding topics such as the continental drift, plate tectonics, earthquakes and volcanoes were incorporated into QR (quick response) codes that were then printed and posted around the school gym. The students were given various tech devices such as smart phones and iPads, and using apps such as Red Laser, scanned codes in order to uncover the questions that were hidden in the code. Students then answered on their review sheets. This proved to be a very effective and fun way for the students to prepare for their upcoming tests!

^ The St. John Berchmans School 5th grade basketball team defeated St. Mark’s Cathedral School for the 2013 Private School League City Championship. The Cardinals, coached by SJB parents Clay Cook and Glen Grimble, finished the season undefeated as they won the championship game with a score of 18-13.

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^ A familiar face will be taking over the Loyola College Prep football program with the hiring of Alan Carter to lead the Flyers beginning with the 2013 season.

Carter began his coaching career at Jesuit (now Loyola) as an assistant in ‘77 and was head coach in the ‘82 and ‘83 seasons. He has also served as head coach at Parkway and Byrd and comes back to Loyola after serving as Athletic Director for Caddo Parish Schools.

^ Following Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation, the St. Joseph School students adopted a Cardinal to pray for during the week leading up to and throughout the Conclave. The students prayed for the Cardinals to be open and to be led by the Holy Spirit in selecting the next leader of the Catholic Church.

appeal ministries

by John Mark Willcox

OFFICE OF WORSHIP Supporting the Liturgy and educational events

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ver been to a special Mass celebrated by our bishop and enjoyed the smooth progression of the Liturgy? The facilitation of the details of our shared worship experience does not just happen through divine osmosis. It occurs because your Appeal donation supports our Director of Worship who works in union with the Diocesan Liturgical Commission to bring quality and consistent worship practices to the faithful of our region.

In this Year of Faith, our Office of Worship, led by Director Dianne Rachal, is providing the leadership necessary for the people of our diocese to join Catholics around the globe in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. This includes 2013’s Annual Liturgical Conference to be held this year on Saturday, September 21. On this day our special guest, Msgr. Richard Hilgartner, will lead attendees through a special focus on the progression of the Liturgy in the wake of Vatican II. Your diocesan Office of Worship is just one more reason why supporting our Annual Appeal helps our Church in a multitude of ways.

John Mark Willcox is the Director of Stewardship & Development. To give to the annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal that supports ministries like these, visit www.dioshpt.org/stewardship/stewardship. html.

moveable feast

by Kim Long

The Extravagant Love of Easter

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he Easter season was an unknown quantity to me as a child. Oh I knew about Easter SUNDAY but that was it, short and sweet, complete with a new dress, shoes and a purse.

We gathered at church, heard a rousing anthem from our beloved choir, an equally rousing sermon from our pastor and went home or to my grandmother’s for a lunch no one felt much like eating after having raided our Easter baskets.

There was ham always, as well as a variety of spring foods, green peas and orange carrots, and once in a great while there would be an asparagus casserole. My grandmother could and did lay out quite the spread.

What was lacking, in my opinion was the build up, the anticipation, the spiritual preparation. How could we really celebrate the resurrection when we barely spoke of the agony in the garden, the crucifixion, Peter and his denial and, in hushed tones and bowed heads, the betrayal of Judas? So for me, Easter was a bit of a letdown in practice. I love Lent.

I admit it, I like to give things up; I like putting forth some extra effort to make more room for God. And it pays off. By the time the Triduum rolls around I am so ready to live those last few days with Jesus.

It is still the most powerful moment in the entire Church year for me. So I thought shouldn’t our menu for Easter Sunday reflect the extravagance that love always is?

This is a dish that I have experimented with, fiddled with, and now I think I will leave it. It’s delicious, fattening, and an echo of God’s love for us, which is generous, unbridled, and yes, extravagant.

I call this dish amazingly enough “Easter Potatoes” and only make it during the Easter season. This gives me plenty of time to lavish it upon my family. This is not the dish to substitute “light” versions of the ingredients ... indulge!

Kim’s Easter Potatoes Ingredients: • 8 large white potatoes • 1 8 ounce carton of sour cream • 1/2 to 3/4 cup of heavy duty mayo • 1/2 cup Mexican table cream (if you cannot find this use heavy whipping cream) • Real bacon pieces (do not substitute artificial, if you wish you may dice a 1/2 pound of bacon, cook, drain and crumble however the bacon pieces available from all grocers work fine) • Cheddar cheese shredded • Dubliner Gold Cheese, shredded (if you cannot find this brand substitute Swiss cheese) •Crushed matzo for topping (you may substitute unsalted crackers) Directions: Peel and slice potatoes, boil gently in slightly salted water until just tender, drain being careful not to break up the slices – you will want them intact for layering. In a bowl whisk together the sour cream, table cream, and mayo. In a separate bowl toss the grated cheese together.

Butter a Pyrex casserole dish (size of dish depends on amount you are cooking). Layer in this order: potatoes, bacon pieces, cream mixture, cheese.

Top with crumbled matzo or crackers.

Bake @ 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes until heated through and the top is a lovely golden brown. Enjoy!

April 2013 9

great document, Lumen Gentium, the Council also presented a Christ-like image of consecrated life. In it, the writers promoted the idea that those in religious life are conformed to the life of worldly detachment ocuments of that both Jesus and his mother chose for themselves. This document on the Church states: “the Church truly shows forth Christ through them with ever-increasing clarity erfectae aritatas to believers and unbelievers alike – Christ The Decree on the Adaptation and in contemplation on the mountain, or proclaiming the Kingdom of God to the Renewal of Religious Life multitudes, or healing the sick and maimed

by Mike Van Vranken and converting sinners to a good life, or blessing children and doing good to all men, hortly after he was elected, Pope always in obedience to the will of the Father Benedict the XVI made the following who sent him” (Lumen Gentium, n. 46). remarks referring to the Second In Perfectae Caritatis, the same council Vatican Council: “This very year marks the made clear: “The members of each Institute, 40th anniversary of the conclusion of the therefore, ought to seek God before all else, Council (8 December 1965). As the years and solely; they should join contemplation, have passed, the Conciliar Documents have by which they cleave to God by mind and lost none of their timeliness; indeed, their heart, to apostolic love, by which they teachings are proving particularly relevant endeavour to be associated with the work of to the new situation of the Church and the current globalized society.” Based on the Holy redemption and to spread the Kingdom of God” (n. 5). In several paragraphs, the need Father’s commitment to Vatican II, we now to “return to the sources” was repeated; those look at one of the shorter but very important sources primarily being Sacred Scripture. At documents that was written during the the same time, each institution or “order” council – The Decree on the Adaptation and has the responsibility to adapt and change Renewal of Religious Life. Its Latin name, to the conditions of the modern world. One Perfectae Caritatis, refers to the quest for “perfect love” and how it can only be achieved could say the Council fathers displayed a large degree of openness by following the to every form of teachings and consecrated life in examples of Jesus the Church. as found in Sacred While the Scripture. document reminds Vatican II was all Religious of the first council their vows of to actually write obedience, poverty a doctrinal view and chastity, the on religious life; Document on outlining its identity the Renewal of and its place in the Religious Life also Church and the “While religious life is certainly a very personal and invited profound people of God. The individual way to be Christ-like, its purpose is not at all result was a new and individualistic. Rather, it is more about helping others changes; changes rich reflection of within the Church by living and teaching as Jesus did.” that sought new ways of living the modern role of in community and new styles of apostolic religious life. service, radically changing its way of being It is expressly stated that the good of the and working in the Church and in the world.

Church is the purpose of the document. But, As we pray for vocations to the Religious it is more than implied that the good of the Life, it is good to read this short document Church is also the purpose of religious life. of Vatican II. Our perception of the role of In short, while religious life is certainly a very personal and individual way to be Christ-like, religious communities might be shaped in its purpose is not at all individualistic. Rather, such a new a dramatic way that will allow us to encourage our youth to pray about and it is more about helping others within the possibly seek a life of consecration to the Church by living and teaching as Jesus did.

Lord Jesus.

Interestingly, in Chapter VI of another

Vatican II D

P

Year of Faith Saint: April 2013

C

S

10 Catholic Connection

T

héodore Guérin was born October 2, 1784 in Etables, France. At the age of 10, she received her First Holy Communion and announced to the parish priest that she would one day be a nun.

At the age of 25 she fulfilled this statement, entering the order of the Sisters of Providence of Ruillé-surLoir, whose mission it was to educate children and to care for the poor, sick and dying. While serving at the convent, Théodore was asked to lead a small band of missionary sisters to Indiana in the United States of America. When the sisters arrived, there was only a log cabin with a porch that served as a chapel. Though her health was suffering, Théodore fell to this new task with a will. By the time she died in 1856, Mother Théodore had opened schools in Illinois and throughout Indiana.

The sisters were well-established and respected. Through illness, poverty and all manner of unwelcoming circumstances, she trusted in God’s providence and lived as a model of belief in his mercy. She was canonized in 2006, and is known as the patron saint of Indianapolis. from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Navigating the Faith Confirmation

by Shelly Bole

I

n order to fully appreciate the Sacrament of Confirmation, we must first understand the symbols of the sacrament and navigate through its history.

Let us begin with the water, with which we bless ourselves upon entering the Church, reminding us of our baptism.

Often the Easter candle or baptismal candles will be used signifying the candle parents (or catechumens) received at baptism. Continuing the theme of baptism, candidates are asked to renew their baptismal promises. The bishop uses the biblical gesture of laying on of hands while invoking the Holy Spirit (Roman Pontifical, pg 66). The Holy Spirit is the one who confirms as the bishop (agent) asks the Holy Spirit to come upon you through the gifts of the Holy Spirit. And then comes the anointing with Sacred Chrism which is a sign of abundance and joy, healing, radiance, sealing. As the bishop makes the sign of the Cross on the forehead, he prays, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” At the completion of the Rite of Confirmation (not the Mass), the confirmed are then taken to the altar, to complete their initiation and give thanks to God through the reception of the Holy Eucharist.

From the dawn of Christian history, the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation have been closely associated (Hebrews 6:2), however, the placement of confirmation has been varied. In the beginning there was one RITE (celebrated at the Easter Vigil), which was presided over by the bishop and included two events: baptism and confirmation followed by Holy Eucharist. baptism and confirmation were considered one sacrament of initiation.

As more people desired initiation into the Church, it became more difficult for the bishops to be present at all the parishes and confirmation (not yet a separate sacrament) was moved, so the bishop was the one “laying hands” on the candidates. By the 5th century, babies received baptism and Eucharist and, at a later rite, the bishop would lay hands and anoint the child. At the 4th Lateran Council, the reception of First Eucharist was moved to between the ages of 7-15, thus restoring to the original order of baptism, confirmation and Eucharist.

During the Council of Trent (1545-

(CNS photo/Kacper Pempel, Reuters)

1563) confirmation was affirmed as its own sacrament. During his reign, Pope Pius X determined that First Eucharist should be received at the “age of reason”, seven-yearsold. This moved confirmation further away from baptism, focusing confirmation on understanding the truths of the Catholic faith and being strengthened to defend the faith. (Holy Trinity Church has a more in depth history of the sacrament www. holytrinity-shreveport.com) Today the understanding of the Sacrament of Confirmation recognizes that confirmation is the fulfillment of baptism and strengthens one to defend the Catholic faith by accepting the mission of Jesus and the Church, spread the Good News of the Kingdom and be a witness before all the world (Acts 13:31).

True or False: Confirmation is the end of graduation from Religious Education.

FALSE: “Through the Sacrament of Confirmation, those who have been born anew in baptism receive the inexpressible Gift, the Holy Spirit Himself, by which they are endowed ... with special strength, they are ‘bound more intimately to the Church’ and ‘they are more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith both by word and deed as true witnesses of Christ.’ ” (Pope Paul VI, Confirmation Official Rite and Commentary 1982) In order to be a true witness, one must continue to foster an intimate relationship with Jesus and learn about the Catholic faith.

True or False: Confirmation is the completion or fullness of Christian Initiation.

FALSE: The Sacrament of Confirmation brings an increase and deepening of baptismal grace; roots us more deeply as children of the Father; unites us more firmly to Christ; increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit within us; renders our bond with the Church more perfect. (CCC 1303) Regardless of the order, Holy Eucharist is the completion of Christian Initiation. During the Mass, which celebrates confirmation, the candidates renew their baptismal promises and are confirmed, which propels them to the altar to receive the Eucharist.

True or False: Confirmation is the occasion of the candidate becoming an adult member of the Church (or a “coming of age”).

FALSE: Regardless of its placement (baby, child, teen or adult) the theology of the Sacrament stays the same. The laying on of hands and the anointing strengthen the recipient to “spread and defend the faith by word and action as true witnesses of Christ, to confess the name of Christ boldly and never be ashamed of the Cross.” (CCC 1303) True or False: Confirmation is the candidate’s affirmation of personal faith.

True and False! (Trick question). Yes the candidate does affirm their personal belief in the Trinity and the Holy Catholic Church through the renewal of baptismal vows.

Through the open reception of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the candidate is charged with using those gifts for the betterment of others and the Church. “...you receive the gift of the Holy Spirit so that you may work with deep faith and with abiding charity, so that you may help to bring to the world the fruits of reconciliation and peace. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit and his manifold gifts, commit yourselves wholeheartedly to the Church’s struggle against sin. Strive to be unselfish; try not to be obsessed with material things. Be active members of the people of God; be reconciled with each other and devoted to the work of justice, which will bring peace on earth.” (Pope John Paul II, homily given on Pentecost Sunday, May 30, 1982).

April 2013 11

Argentina's

Cardinal Bergoglio

elected

Pope,

chooses

Francis

By Francis X. Rocca and Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

Pope Francis greets people after celebrating Mass at St. Anne's Parish within Vatican. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 76, the leader of a large urban archdiocese in Latin America, was elected the 266th pope and took the name Francis.

He is the first pope in history to come from the Western Hemisphere and the first non-European to be elected in almost 1,300 years. The Jesuit was also the first member of his order to be elected pope, and the first member of any religious order to be elected in nearly two centuries.

The election March 13 came on the second day of the conclave, on the conclave’s fifth ballot. It was a surprisingly quick conclusion to a conclave that began with many plausible candidates and no clear favorite.

The new pope was chosen by at least two-thirds of the 115 cardinals from 48 countries, who cast their ballots in secret in the Sistine Chapel.

His election was announced in Latin from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, to a massive crowd under the rain in the square below and millions watching around the world.

White smoke poured from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 7:05 p.m., signaling that the cardinals had chosen a successor to retired Pope Benedict XVI. Two minutes later, the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica began pealing continuously to confirm the election.

At 8:12, French Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, the senior cardinal in the order of deacons, appeared at the basilica balcony and read out in Latin: “I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope! The most eminent and most reverend lord, Lord Jorge Mario, Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church, Bergoglio, who has taken for himself the name Francis.”

The crowd in the square responded with cheers, applause and the waving of rain-soaked national flags.

Ten minutes the later the new pope appeared. He sought prayers for Pope Benedict and spoke of the journey the church was about to begin.

“Now I would like to give my blessing. But first, I will ask a favor.

Before the bishop blesses his people, he asks that you pray to the Lord to bless me, the prayer of the people for the blessing of their bishop. Let’s pray for me in silence,” he said.

Celsa Negrini, an older woman from Rome, said the new pope’s choice of name was “beautiful. Francis is the patron of Italy. It’s a humble choice, a choice of one who will reach out to the poor.”

Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi told reporters it was “beautiful that a Latin American was chosen.”

12 Catholic Connection

“I don’t know him well, even though we are part of same religious family,” he said “I greeted him the other day, but didn’t expect to see him again dressed in white.”

A respected Italian journal said Pope Francis I had the secondhighest number of votes on each of the four ballots in the 2005 conclave.

Pope Francis has had a growing reputation as a very spiritual man with a talent for pastoral leadership serving in a region with the largest number of the world’s Catholics.

Since 1998, he has been archbishop of Buenos Aires, where his style is lowkey and close to the people.

He rides the bus, visits the poor, lives in a simple apartment and cooks his own meals. To many in Buenos Aires, he is known simply as “Father Jorge.”

He also has created new parishes, restructured the administrative offices, led pro-life initiatives and started new pastoral programs, such as a commission for divorcees. He co-presided over the 2001 Synod of Bishops and was elected to the synod council, so he is well-known to the world’s bishops.

The pope has also written books on spirituality and meditation and has been outspoken against abortion and same-sex marriages.

In 2010, when Argentina became the first Latin American country to legalize same-sex marriage, Pope Francis encouraged clergy across the country to tell Catholics to protest against the legislation because, if enacted, it could “seriously injure the family.”

He also said adoption by same-sex couples would result in “depriving (children) of the human growth that God wanted them given by a father and a mother.”

In 2006, he criticized an Argentine proposal to legalize abortion under certain circumstances as part of a wide-ranging legal reform.

He accused the government of lacking respect for the values held by the majority of Argentines and of trying to convince the Catholic Church “to waver in our defense of the dignity of the person.”

His role often forced him to speak publicly about the economic, social and political problems facing his country. His homilies and speeches are filled with references to the fact that all people are

brothers and sisters and that the church and the country need to do what they can to make sure that everyone feels welcome, respected and cared for.

While not overtly political, Pope Francis has not tried to hide the political and social impact of the Gospel message, particularly in a country still recovering from a serious economic crisis.

After becoming archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998, he created new parishes, restructured the administrative offices, took personal care of the seminary and started new pastoral projects, such as the commission for divorcees. He mediated in almost all social or political conflicts in the city; recently ordained priests have been described as “the Bergoglio generation”; and no political or social figure missed requesting a private encounter with him.

Jorge Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital city, Dec. 17, 1936.

He studied and received a master’s degree in chemistry at the University of Buenos Aires, but later decided to become a Jesuit priest and studied at the Jesuit seminary of Villa Devoto. The last pope to have belonged to a religious order was Pope Gregory XVI, a Benedictine elected in 1831.

He studied liberal arts in Santiago, Chile, and in 1960 earned a degree in philosophy from the Catholic University of Buenos Aires.

Between 1964 and 1965 he was a teacher of literature and psychology at Inmaculada high school in the province of Santa Fe, and in 1966 he taught the same courses at the prestigious Colegio del Salvador in Buenos Aires.

In 1967, he returned to his theological studies and was ordained a priest Dec. 13, 1969. After his perpetual profession as a Jesuit in 1973, he became master of novices at the Seminary of Villa Barilari in San Miguel. Later that same year, he was elected superior of the Jesuit province of Argentina.

In 1980, he returned to San Miguel as a teacher at the Jesuit school, a job rarely taken by a former provincial superior. In May 1992 he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires. He was one of three auxiliaries and he kept a low profile, spending most of his time caring for the Argentine Cardinal Bergoglio washes feet of Catholic university, counseling priests and shelter residents in 2008 preaching and hearing confessions. in Buenos Aires. (Enrique On June 3, 1997, he was named Garcia Medina, Reuters) coadjutor archbishop. He was installed as the new archbishop of Buenos Aires Feb. 28, 1998.

Some controversy had arisen over the position taken by Pope Francis during Argentina’s 1976-1983 military dictatorship, which cracked down brutally on political opponents. Estimates of the number of people killed and forcibly disappeared during those years range from about 13,000 to more than 30,000.

Citing a case in which two young priests were detained by the military regime, critics say that the cardinal, who was Jesuit provincial at the time, did not do enough to support church workers against the military dictatorship.

Others, however, have said that he attempted to negotiate behind the scenes for the priests’ release, and a spokesman for the cardinal, quoted in the daily newspaper La Nacion, called the accusation “old slander.”

April 2013 13

NEWS

Pope Francis’ inauguratioN Pope Francis begins papacy pledging to protect church, human dignity

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis formally began his ministry as bishop of Rome and as pope by pledging to protect the Catholic Church, the dignity of each person and the beauty of creation, just like St. Joseph protected Mary and Jesus.

“To protect creation, to protect every man and every woman, to look upon them with tenderness and love is to open up a horizon of hope,” he told between 150,000 and 200,000 people gathered under sunny skies in St. Peter’s Square and the nearby streets.

With representatives of other Christian churches and Pope Francis receives his ring from Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of communities, delegations from 132 countries, Jewish and Muslim the College of Cardinals, during his inaugural Mass in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican March 19. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) leaders as well as Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs and Jains present, Pope Francis preached the Gospel, but insisted the values it espouses are essentially human, “involving everyone.” especially toward children, the aged, the poor and the sick.

While the rites and rituals of the inauguration of his ministry “In the end, everything has been entrusted to our protection, as pope took place immediately before the Mass, the liturgy itself and all of us are responsible for it,” he said. “Be protectors of God’s was a celebration of the feast of St. Joseph, patron of the universal gifts.” church and “also the name day of my venerable predecessor,” Pope When people fail to respect creation, when they ignore “God’s Benedict XVI, the former Joseph Ratzinger. plan inscribed in nature,” or when they treat each other with The retired pope was not present at the liturgy, but the crowds disrespect, he said, “the way is opened to destruction, and hearts are applauded enthusiastically when Pope Francis said, “We are close to hardened.” him with our prayers, full of affection and gratitude.”

“Tragically, in every period of history there are ‘Herods’ who plot The new pope stood at a lectern to read his homily, sticking death, wreak havoc and mar the countenance of men and women,” to the text he had prepared in advance. At times his voice was he said. extremely soft and other times it was quite loud; he punctuated Pope Francis asked the government leaders present and all those with clenched fists his remarks about the strength required to be with responsibility in the field of economics, politics and social life tender and compassionate to others. to stand firm when destruction and death threaten human dignity, “In the Gospels,” he said, “St. Joseph appears as a strong and human life and the environment. He met with the heads of the courageous man, a working man, yet in his heart we see great government delegations after the Mass. tenderness, which is not the virtue of the weak, but rather a sign of Caring for others, he said in his homily, must begin with strength of spirit and a capacity for concern, for compassion, for watching over one’s own heart, mind and actions, resisting “hatred, genuine openness to others, for love.” envy and pride” and emotions that can tear others down.

“We must not be afraid of goodness, of tenderness,” Pope Francis Pope Francis told the people he realized his new ministry said. included “a certain power,” but it is the same power Jesus conferred The new pope said exercising the role of protector as St. Joseph on St. Peter, which was the “power of service” seen in Jesus’ charge did means doing so “discreetly, humbly and silently, but with an to St. Peter: “Feed my lambs. Feed my sheep.” unfailing presence and utter fidelity, even when he finds it hard to “Let us never forget that authentic power is service and that the understand.” pope, too, when exercising power, must enter ever more fully into The Gospels present St. Joseph as a husband to Mary, “at her side that service which has its radiant culmination on the cross,” he said. in good times and bad,” and as a “He must be inspired by the father who watched over Jesus, lowly, concrete and faithful worried about him and taught service which marked St. him a trade, the pope said.

Joseph and, like him, he St. Joseph responded to his must open his arms to call to be a protector “by being protect all of God’s people constantly attentive to God, and embrace with tender open to the signs of God’s affection the whole of presence and receptive to God’s humanity, especially the plans, and not simply his own,” poorest, the weakest, the least the pope said. important,” Pope Francis Fidelity to God’s word and said.

God’s plan for individuals and “Only those who serve for all of creation makes the with love are able to protect,” difference, he said, calling on he said. everyone to be sensitive and

by Cindy Wooden, Pope Francis celebrates inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square at Vatican. loving toward those in their care, (CNS photo/Paul Haring Catholic News Service 14 Catholic Connection

NEWS

Catholic Charities

Growing with Gabriel’s Closet and the Little Flower League

Mission Possible

Weekend adventure camp for teen boys blends outdoor fun and deep spirituality

The Little Flower League makes St. Therese bracelets.

A

t Catholic Charities of Shreveport, we will celebrate our third anniversary this August and we are growing.

Gabriel’s Closet, our program to supply young mothers and their infants with the items they need, is adding an “annex” in the room adjacent to its current space where we’ll have more space for classes for our clients to learn infant and child care and safety, as well as fun classes like crochet to offer them a time of fellowship while they learn a new skill and create something for their little one. This newest room will also house a small maternity area with things just for mom, such as a TV so they can watch helpful and informative videos, and a small library.

Talk about growth! We can barely keep up with the demand for St. Therese bracelets, Director Jean Dresley’s special project that began as a small idea has exploded! So to help keep up with the demand, we are beginning the “Little Flower League,” a group to work one day a week making the bracelets and keyrings. You can get them online now at www.ccshpt.org. They are available for a small donation that you can make online and we will mail them to you. All donations go immediately and directly back into our assistance programs.

We’ve been blessed for the past several weeks to have received publicity through The Times newspaper and KTBS, KSLA, KTLA and KMSS. All four television stations interviewed members of our staff and some of our clients for stories on immigration and Gabriel’s Closet, and the newspaper printed a story on our programs. It has been a tremendous help to get the word out and allows many more people to learn about us. We have heard from many who wish to volunteer for various programs, those who wanted to give and receive St. Therese bracelets and clients who need our help.

While we grow, we are giving a lot more food from our small pantry to the hungry who come to us in food emergencies. Our pantry could use some help and we could use yours! There are particular items that go quickly that we would love to restock including: canned tuna and chicken, canned chicken breasts, all types of soups, rice, all kinds of pasta, especially macaroni and spaghetti and all types of boxed dinners. Peanut butter and jelly are good staples to give our clients who have small children. Let us know if you’d like to help in any way. We’d be so glad to have you as part of our team that makes our work possible.

by Theresa Mormino, Catholic Charities

W

hat gets young people engaged in the Church? Is it a connection with other young Catholics? Is it a deeper understanding of the faith? What exactly should we do at youth events? Fun stuff? Intensive Bible study?

Pizza? Eucharistic adoration?

These are questions youth ministers have asked themselves for decades. Most believe there has to be a balance of playful camaraderie and rich spiritual content for young people to encounter Christ and find their place in the Church.

To strike that balance, the diocese created Mission Possible, a weekend summer camp for teen boys. It involves heavy doses of outdoor fun with serious prayer, led by our seminarians and Fr. Matthew Long, the youngest priest in our diocese.

Patrick X, a 16-year-old who attended Mission Possible last year with his two brothers, summed up his experience succinctly: “Dude, camp was awesome!”

The draw for teen boys is obvious. One entire afternoon is spent on a high-elements rope course, including a 40-ft tall zip line that sends boys hurtling through the woods. Then there’s the giant “earth ball” used for rough-and-tumble, soccer-style tournaments. A 10,000 sq. foot wooden maze has teams of boys scrambling to find the pieces to solve a giant puzzle.

Add in an oversized slip-n-slide and water I just want to help young balloon launchers that people encounter Christ, can send a balloon the length of a football whether they’re called field, and you’ve got the to priesthood or to build perfect ingredients for a weekend of all-boy fun. strong Catholic families in But the fun is only the future. half the story. Mission Possible is also a boot camp for solid Catholic spirituality.

Inspiring talks, solemn Masses and heartfelt rosaries are all part of the weekend. The aim is for boys to deepen their relationship with Christ and help them begin to answer the question, “What is God calling me to do with my life?” continued on page 16 April 2013 15

NEWS continued from page 15 Most parents recognize the need for spiritual training for their sons. As boys mature through adolescence they face serious moral challenges in society.

Many Catholic teens “check out” of the Church after receiving confirmation.

The exodus of college-aged Catholics is well-documented. Thus the high school years are a critical time; teens will either choose Christ or not, run toward the Church or run away from it. For parents who want to encourage their sons to make the Faith their own, Mission Possible is a good choice.

While the camp is sponsored by the Vocations Office, the purpose is not to usher teens right into seminary, said Fr. Matthew Long. “I just want to help young people encounter Christ, whether

they’re called to priesthood or to build strong Catholic families in the future.

If our young people draw close to Jesus, the priestly vocations will come in time.”

Mission Possible begins Friday afternoon, May 31, and ends on Sunday afternoon, June 2. While there were just 15 attendees at last year’s camp, the diocese is looking to triple that number this year. Plans are also afoot for a girls’ summer camp in 2014.

For more information and to register for Mission Possible, visit www. shreveportvocations.com.

by Sam Alzheimer, Vianney Vocations 16 Catholic Connection

Encounter Youth Rally

Youth event drew 300 Catholics for a day of spiritual reflection

O

n Saturday March 2, the Encounter Faith Youth Rally was held at the Catholic Center in Shreveport.

Musical leader Aaron Thompson captivated his audience with his heartfelt praise and contagious spirit.

His musicianship is truly a gift from God as he ministered to us with piano and guitar. It was exciting to see Aaron on stage in front of an audience of nearly 300.

Not only was he a great speaker, but Aaron brought a sincere form of worship during the Mass with Bishop Michael Duca.

The breakout sessions were a high point of the day as well. Our own Superintendant of Catholics Schools, Sr. Carol Shively, OSU, addressed one of the most challenging struggles that our children face today: bullying and cyber bullying. Her sessions were specifically targeted to our middle school youth to help prepare them for the world of social media that exists all around them.

Fr. Mark Watson, Pastor of St. Patrick and Sacred Heart churches, reinforced one of our greatest treasures to the students: the Eucharist. Christ with us is always the answer to the obstacles we face in life.

Father has a genuinely peaceful disposition that endears him to everyone he meets and he was a great blessing to our lineup.

We explored the scriptures that day with Fr. Joseph Ampatt, pastor of Mary, Queen of Peace Church. His extensive biblical studies and background brought a rich flavor to this session. Scripture study has long been recognized by the Church as essential to grow in Christ. St. Jerome told us that ignorance of scripture is ignorance of Christ.

Works of Mercy were brought to us by Joseph Seyler, a Mental Health Advocacy Attorney with the heart of a Jesuit. Mr. Seyler spent eight years with the Jesuits in Grand Coteau, LA. Well educated in

English, philosophy and law, Mr. Seyler shared his great experiences with us.

Our Church Vocations session was brought to us by Vocations Director Fr. Matthew Long and Sr. Margaret Mitchell, Superior for the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows. Both are uniquely gifted and complemented each other throughout the day as they encouraged our young people to take the time and ask the question, “Is God calling you?”

Pablo Ortega delivered two great sessions, one in English and one in Spanish, to our youth. Not only is Pablo wonderful in his outreach, but his passion is infectious! His second presentation was filled to standing room only. I am ever so thankful for the work he did that day as I am proud of all who gave their time and participated.

None of this would have been possible without the vision and blessing of Bishop Michael Duca. I would like to graciously thank many others as well. The Knights of Columbus (Broadmoor Council No. 3407) provided lunch. I want to especially thank Aaron and all our speakers, our Hispanic Ministry, Blake Royal for his great technical expertise and assistance, all of the support staff from registration to hosting, to the Catholic Center Facilities staff who worked tirelessly to make this day work well.

Thanks to all of our youth leaders, workers, chaperones and students that give so much to Christ and this diocese; a great blessing indeed! Thanks to St. Joseph Federal Credit Union for sponsorship, and all the others who brought Encounter Faith to life.

by John Vining, Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry

Sr. Marilyn Vassallo Returns to NY Sister bids farewell after 15 years of service in Shreveport

F

or the past 15 years, Sr. Marilyn has served as a reliable judge at the Religion Vassallo, a Sister of St. Joseph of Scholars Bowl hosted at St. John Berchmans Carondolet based School annually. just outside of Albany, NY, After spending more than has served the Diocese of 19 years in the south, first Shreveport in numerous ways. in Birmingham and then in Her primary work has been Shreveport, Sr. Marilyn has as Director of Canonical decided to move back home Services, leading the Tribunal to Albany, NY where she and helping those seeking will work as a Consultant for annulments.

Canon Law Professionals and Through her ministry in be near her motherhouse, also this office, Sister has offered located just outside of Albany. training for Tribunal Lay As Jill Braniff, Diocesan Advocates, which are now present in every Finance Officer told the CSJ Newsline, deanery in the Diocese of Shreveport.

“Sister Marilyn is a true advocate for the Additionally, Sr. Marilyn has served as laity, especially for women. As a co-worker, the Coordinator of Religious, bringing she has been a great resource and educator together women and men of all religious through the more than 10 years we have orders serving north Louisiana to celebrate worked together.” their commitment to their respective orders “Sister Marilyn has made many friends and showcase their jubilees. In addition to during her 15 years in this diocese and maintaining a database of their information, will be sorely missed for her compassion Sister has hosted a bi-annual conference for and understanding, her spirituality, her religious and their superiors to meet with laughter and often challenging discussions,” Bishop Michael Duca, as well as facilitated said Randy Tiller, Director of Mission a trip to see a historical religious exhibit in Effectiveness.

Dallas.

Before her departure, Sr. Marilyn said, Sister Marilyn is well recognized “I leave with so much gratitude and love throughout the diocese for her inspiring for the people and priests I have had the retreats and missions – both in our churches privilege to serve with.” She added that and at youth rallies. Most recently, Sister working in a small diocese has been one of helped to lead two very successful Catholic the best parts of her religious life.

Women’s Retreats – one at St. Elizabeth The Diocese of Shreveport Tribunal will Ann Seton Church in Shreveport and continue to operate under Judicial Vicar Fr. another at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Peter Mangum, while both Ann Goelden Ruston. During the retreats she captured and Ricole Williams will keep operations the hearts and minds of women of all ages moving as smoothly as they have in the past. as they learned more about the crucial roles

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor of women in the Bible.

She has also served as a Spiritual Director for our permanent deacons and others in the diocese and taught classes both through Greco Institute and to our current diaconate classes on history of spirituality and methods, marriage preparation, annulments and spiritual formation.

Catholic school children have also enjoyed having Sr. Sr. Marilyn, far left, leads a small group discussion at the recent Catholic Women's Retreat at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church.

Marilyn in the area, as she

Pro-Life Oratory Contest High school students compete for prize

T

he National Right to Life is sponsoring its annual Pro-Life Oratory Contest. The competition is open to all high school juniors and seniors, who will address the issues of abortion, infanticide, euthanasia or fetal stem cell research in 5-7 minute oral presentations.

The local contest, now in its 24th year, will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. at the Catholic Center, located at 3500 Fairfield Avenue in Shreveport.

The contest is open to the public at no charge. The local prizes are: First place – $150 cash, Second place – $100 cash, and Third place – $50 cash. The first place winner will then represent the Shreveport/ Bossier area at the state contest.

The state contest will be held in Baton Rouge. The state prizes are: First place$500 cash and Second place- $250 cash.

The state winner will then represent Louisiana at the national contest.

The national contest will be held in Arlington, VA at the National Right to Life Convention. The national prizes are: First place- $1,000; Second place- $750; Third place- $500; Fourth place- $250.

The first place winner will present his or her speech at the National Right to Life Convention banquet.

For additional information and entry blanks, please contact Lacey or Vicki Wallace at 2319 Ashdown Drive, Bossier City, LA 71111 or at (318) 617-1502.

by Vicki Wallace April 2013 17

HISPANIC corner

por Marilú Rodríguez

Coordinadora de la Pastoral en Cristo Rey 318-219-7288

Nuevos Comienzos, Nuevas Oportunidades

¡

Y

a es primavera! Una nueva oportunidad de que nuestra vida sea llene de colores, sabores y hábitos nuevos...

Y en nuestra Diócesis también hemos tenido experiencias nuevas, los meses pasados: Experiencia Cristo, en el mes de noviembre, para personas mayores de 18 años, donde en todo momento Cristo estuvo presente y muchos pudimos experimentar y tener el amor de Jesús en nuestras vidas.

El pasado mes de Febrero, tuvimos el Primer Retiro para Matrimonios donde participaron parejas de todas edades, estilos de vida y tuvieran o no el Sacramento. Los expositores de este retiro fueron un Matrimonio con más de 20 años de experiencia en este Ministerio; compartieron con el grupo de matrimonios algunas de sus experiencias personales, pero también compartieron consejos prácticos para que la vida en pareja sea un camino junto a Jesús.

Entre otras muchas pautas, nos dejaron los siguientes Consejos para un Matrimonio Feliz: • Orar juntos • Hablar con nuestra pareja de lo que nos gusta y lo que no nos gusta • Planear un día para dialogar sobre los hijos y sus problemas o logros • Planear una día de novios, en el cual no se habla de los hijos, los problemas sino que sea un tiempo de distracción y dialogo mutuo. (No cuenta el estar

viendo la televisión) • Hablar de la responsabilidad de la educación religiosa para nuestros hijos • Comunicación en todos los sentidos. (recordando que la comunicación no es solo lo que decimos sino, como lo decimos) Recordemos que Dios nos dio una misión al llevar a cabo el sacramento del matrimonio, y esa misión es dar ejemplo, apoyar, motivar, educar a todos los jóvenes sobre este sacramento, compartamos el amor que Jesús nos ha manifestado al ser el principal testigo de la unión de la pareja quién tomó como compañera a toda la iglesia.

La Diócesis cuenta con material disponible para consulta, al igual que pueden informarle de otro tipo de recursos espirituales, para su vida en pareja, en familia, en comunidad de parroquia, y también información de recursos de salud disponibles.

Les comparto esta oración: “Gracias Señor, por los dones de la vida, la salud y el amor,y por tener a mi lado a la persona que me has dado para compartirlos.”

En esta temporada de Pascua y de Felicidad por la Resurrección de Nuestro Salvador, agradecemos a nuestro padre Dios también por el regalo de nuestro Papa, su Santidad Francisco. Oremos por él y por la iglesia para que nuestro presente y futuro sean guiados por el Espíritu Santo en la persona del Papa y de cada uno de nosotros.

Bossier City: Christ the King Church 425 McCormick St. Bossier City Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Domingo 3:00 p.m.

Lunes 7:00 p.m.

Confesiones 45 minutos antes de Misa Marilú Rodriguez Tel: 318-286-1492 Farmerville: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church 600 E. Water Street, Farmerville Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115

MISAS Mansfield: St. Joseph Church 305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield 2do Domingo 2:00 p.m. y 3er Martes 6:30 p.m.

Juanita Ibarra Tel: 318-872-5390 Oak Grove: Sacred Heart Church 201 Purvis St., Oak Grove Domingo 5:00 p.m.

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

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

Soledad Broyles Tel: 318-243-1958 Shreveport: St. Mary of the Pines Church 1050 Bert Kouns Indl Loop, Shreveport Domingo 11:30 a.m.

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

Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

Oficina del Ministerio Católico Hispano: Rosalba Quiroz, Directora 318-219-7265 Marcos G. Villalba, Pastoral Juvenil 318-219-7288 • Jeanne Brown, Secretaria 318-219-7257 18 Catholic Connection

across the Pope explains how he chose St. Francis of Assisi’s name

by Catholic News Service

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis said that “as things got dangerous” in the conclave voting, he was sitting next to his “great friend,” Brazilian Cardinal Claudio Hummes “who comforted me.” When the former Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio went over the 77 votes needed to become pope, he said, Cardinal Hummes “hugged me, kissed me and said, ‘Don’t forget the poor.’” Pope Francis told thousands of journalists March 16 that he took to heart the words of his friend and chose to be called after St. Francis of Assisi, “the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and protects creation,” the same created world “with which we don’t have such a good relationship.” “How I would like a church that is poor and that is for the poor,” he told the more than 5,000 media representatives who came from around the world for the conclave and his election.

The pope acknowledged how difficult it is for many media to cover the church as a spiritual, rather than a political institution, and he offered special thanks “to those who were able to observe and recount these events in the story of the church from the most correct perspective in which they must be read, that of faith.” The church, he said, “is the people of God, the holy people of God, because it is journeying toward an encounter with Jesus Christ.” No one can understand the church without understanding its spiritual purpose, he said. Thanking the reporters for all their hard work, Pope Francis also asked them to continue trying “to discover the true nature of the church and its journey through the world, with its virtues as well as its sins.”

Communications, he said, requires study, preparation and a special attention “to truth, goodness and beauty,” which is something the church has in common with journalism.”

Vatican releases papal coat of arms, motto by English doctor of church

by Catholic News Service

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis’ papal motto is based on the Gospel account of “The Call of St. Matthew,” the tax collector, in a homily given by St. Bede the Venerable. The pope decided to keep his episcopal motto and coat of arms for his pontificate with just a few minor adjustments in line with a papal emblem.

For example, the blazon adds the bishop’s miter and the keys of St. Peter.

The silver miter was something Pope Benedict XVI established in 2005, putting an end to the three-tiered tiara that, for centuries, had appeared at the top of each pope’s coat of arms. The simple,

more modest miter has three gold stripes to mirror order, jurisdiction and magisterium, and a vertical gold band connects the three stripes in the middle to indicate their unity in the same person. The Holy See’s insignia of two crossed keys, which symbolize the powers Christ gave to the Apostle Peter and his successors, is on the new papal coat of arms and has been part of papal emblems for centuries. The papal emblem uses a gold key to represent the power in heaven and a silver key to indicate the spiritual authority of the papacy on earth.

The red cord that unites the two keys alludes to the bond between the two powers.

Catholic News Service

VAtICAN news & notes • Pope Francis said he plans renewed cooperation to further Catholic-Jewish relations and hopes to contribute to a world where all people live in harmony with the “will of the creator.” In a message to Chief Rabbi Riccardo di Segni of Rome, the pope said he “profoundly hopes to be able to contribute to the progress that Jewish-Catholic relations have seen starting from the Second Vatican Council, in a spirit of renewed collaboration.”

• Pope Francis held an informal, private meeting and lunch with Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner March 18.

Father Lombardi told journalists there would be no official communique from the Vatican about the meeting since the encounter was “very informal.”

• The night of his election, Pope Francis phoned the Vatican ambassador in Argentina and asked him to tell the country’s bishops and faithful not to feel obliged to come to Rome for his installation, but instead give the money to the poor, the Vatican spokesman confirmed.

“Pope Francis did not forbid them to come,” said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, the spokesman, but he said he would prefer their continued prayers and acts of charity.

• Pope Francis began his first full day as pope with an early morning act of Marian devotion -- and by paying the bill at the clergy hotel where he had stayed before entering the conclave that elected him.

April 2013 19

around the DIOCESE

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4

1

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Most Reverend Neal Buckon, the Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of the Military Services, was at Holy Family Community at Barksdale Air Force Chapel on February 7 to confirm five candidates: Annika Tichenor, Isabella Calderon, Maria Mazaniegoes, Brandon Rayburn and Guillermo Gonzales, III. The forth degree Knights of Columbus acted as honor guards during the service. Joining in the celebration of Mass with Bishop Neil Buckon, was Fr. Van Dinh, Msgr. Gerald McManus and Deacon Burton Ainsworth. Over 90 attended this special Mass and dinner reception following at the Chapel Annex. William Straessley and the Barksdale Catholic Choir provided the music for the service.

2

The Christ the King / St. Jude / Mary, Queen of Peace Food Pantry distributed 5,109 bags of food in 2012. At $45 per bag, the total value was $229,905. We assisted a total of 11,396 individuals including 5,290 adults, 4,204 children, 1,902 seniors and 78 homeless. There are 39 volunteers working at the pantry in two rooms at the closed Christ the King School located at 1000 Ogilvie St. in Bossier City. There are 11 Knights of Columbus from Bossier Council 48873 who volunteer to work the two shifts on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

They also help unload the delivery truck from the Northwest Louisiana Food Bank on the third Thursday of each month. Thank you for all your hard work!

3 4 5

On February 24 Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church had a Best Dressed Contest. The winner was Leroy Wesley. Pictured left to right: Joseph Levy, Cecile M. Lorence, Kharmen Davis, Leroy Wesley, Shelique Woodard and Tim Ford.

The youth group from Our Lady of Fatima Church recently led the weekly Lenten Stations of the Cross at the parish on February 22. The youth served as the crucifer, candle bearers, and readers.

5 20 Catholic Connection

Fr. Chester Smith, SVD, from Indianapolis, delivered a spiritfilled Lenten Revival at Little Flower of Jesus Church in Monroe February 26-28.

6 6

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Prayer was led by Immaculee Ilibagiza with Fr. Ubald Rugirangoga, survivors of the Rwandan genocide, during an event February 22-24 at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans. The event, entitled “Extreme Forgiveness,” brought together people from across the diocese and nation to the Cathedral to hear the stories of these inspiring people and learn more about healing through forgiveness.

7

“Forgive me Father for I have sinned, this is my first confession.”

Forty-four of Jesus Christ’s beautiful children received the “GIFT” of Reconciliation at St. Jude Church in Bossier City. Our First Communion Reconciliation Retreat was blessed by Fr. Pike Thomas, Fr. John Bosco, Fr. Michael Thang’wa and Catechist Debra Leon.

8 9

Students from the PSR program at Sacred Heart Church in Oak Grove visited and gave cards to residents of Carroll Nursing Home in December.

St. Francis Medical Center held a reception on January 10 to welcome Sr. Barbara Arceneaux, OSF, back to St. Francis from Baton Rouge. Sr. Barbara is a graduate of the nursing program at ULM and previously worked in nursing services at St. Francis. She has a Master’s degree in administration from Notre Dame University and is certified in Pastoral Care Teaching with a special interest in working with the elderly. She most recently served as Assistant Administrator in charge of Mission and Pastoral Services in the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System Senior Service Division at St. Clare Manor in Baton Rouge. Pictured: front row Sr. Barbara Arceneaux, Sr. Mary Ann Sepulvado, Sr. Mazgiya Ageto; (back row) Sr. Kathleen Cain.

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Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Shreveport held a Black History Month Celebration on February 22.

This Black History Month Celebration honored Sr. Thea Bowman, Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration. Our guest speaker was Fr. Maurice J. Nutt from Chicago, IL (third from left). He shared with all how he came to know Sr. Thea, his teacher and dear friend. She fought for the Black Catholic identity in the Catholic churches and also justice for everyone.

10 April 2013 21

upcoming EVENTS April 4 - May 23: Life Happens Support Group is available for adults experiencing the loss of a loved one. The group meets Thursday evenings from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the St. Jude Church library in Bossier City. Contact Laurie Nussbaum at 318549-1082 or by email lauriebelle44@ bellsouth.net.

April 10: Four Part Series on the Constitution on Sacred Liturgy at Mary, Queen of Peace Church in Bossier City Liturgy was the first and most significant subject taken up by the Second Vatican Council. By calling for the revision of all the rites according to the principles set forth in the Constitution on Sacred Liturgy, the Council set in motion the most comprehensive liturgical reform in Catholic history. The course will explore both our understanding of God and of evil and suffering. Instructor: Dianne Rachal. Dates: Wednesday - 4/10, 4/24.

5/8, & 5/22. Time: 6:30 - 8:00 pm April 20: St. Jude Spring Arts & Crafts Market St. Jude Church invites you to the St. Jude Spring Arts & Crafts Market from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., located at 3800 Viking Drive in Bossier City.

April 26: 2nd Annual Golf Classic St. Francis Medical Center Foundation

will hold its 2nd Annual Golf Classic on Friday, April 26 at Bayou DeSiard Country Club in Monroe, with an evening reception planned for Thursday, April 25.

For information contact Cindy Rogers, Foundation President, at 318-966-4370 or rogersc@stfran.com.

April 27: Rummage Sale at Mary, Queen of Peace Church The sale will start at 8:00 a.m. Proceeds will benefit the church. For more information call the church office at 318-752-5971.

June 15-21: Pilgrimage and Choir Tour to Quebec The Cathedral of St. John

Berchmans has organized a pilgrimage and choir tour to Quebec, June 15-21.

Shrines and churches to be visited will include Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, NotreDame-du-Cap, St. Joseph’s Oratory, Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal, and, in honor of the 125th anniversary of our patron saint’s canonization, Saint-JeanBerchmans in Montreal. For further details, please visit www.tinyurl.com/ quebectour or call Patrick Williams at the cathedral office 318-221-5296 to request a brochure. Anyone interested in singing in the pilgrimage choir is asked to contact cathedral choirmaster Aaron Wilson at awilson@sjbcathedral.org.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month Child Abuse Prevention Blessing Dear Lord, We ask You to bless these your holy people who have participated in the Church’s efforts to help stop child sexual abuse.

Open their hearts to Your call to be the “ears, eyes and voice of children and young people” everywhere. Give them the vision and grace needed to fulfill the special commitments that each of them has made to making their homes, churches, schools, communities and world a safer place for all God’s Children. Amen.

2 0 1 3 D i o c e s a n s t e wa r d s h i p A p p e a l

I / We would like to contribute to the Diocesan Stewardship Appeal with a total 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___________________________________________________________________________________

Diocese of Shreveport The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 www.dioshpt.org 22 Catholic Connection

City______________________________________________________State_________Zip Code____________ My / Our Church Parish______________________________________________________________________ Signature__________________________________________________________________________________ You may make a credit card payment online at: www.dioshpt.org (Click on Stewardship)

calendar

april 2013

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

SATURDAY

31 1 2 3 4 5 6 EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD

Easter Monday, Catholic Center and Catholic Schools Closed

Confirmation

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Sunday of Divine The Year of Faith Mercy Annunciation of Visit by Bishop the Lord Duca: Cathedral Confirmation, of St. John St. Paul Church, Berchmans, Minden, 11am Shreveport, 6:30pm

Year of Faith Visit by Bishop Duca: St. Lawrence Church, Swartz, 6pm

Catholic Daughters of the Americas 100th Anniversary Mass, St. Mary of the Pines, 10am

St. Stanislaus, bishop & martyr

St. Martin I, pope & martyr

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY / APR. 7

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Deadline for May Catholic Connection

Year of Faith Visit by Bishop Duca: St. Paul Church, Minden, 6pm

Diocesan Liturgical Meeting, Catholic Center, 1pm Year of Faith Visit by Bishop Duca: St. Lucy Church, Hodge, 6:15pm

Year of Faith Visit by Bishop Duca: St. Clement Church, Vivian, 5:30pm

Living the Eucharist Evaluation & Celebration with Bishop Duca, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe, 9:30am

Year of Faith Visit by Bishop Duca: Little Flower of Jesus Church, Monroe, 7pm

Year of Faith Visits with bishop Duca

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Confirmation, Christ the King Church, 8am

Earth Day

Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops Meeting, Baton Rouge

Living the Eucharist Evaluation & Confirmation, Celebration with Christ the Bishop Duca, Pro-Life Oratory King Hispanic Community, 3pm Catholic Center, Contest, Catholic Shreveport, Center, 7pm 6:30pm St. George & St. Adalbert, martyrs

St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest & martyr

St. Mark, evangelist

Confirmation, St. John the Baptist Church, Many, 6pm

2nd Collections: Home Missions

Confirmation, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport, 4pm

EARTH DAY APR. 22

28 29 30 1 2 3 4 2nd Collections: Home Missions Confirmation, St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Ruston 9:30am Confirmation, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 5:30pm

Year of Faith Visit by Bishop Duca: St. Margaret Church, Homer 6pm St. Catherine of Siena, virgin & doctor of the Church

St. Pius V, pope

St. Joseph the Worker

National Day of Prayer

St. Philip & James, apostles

St. Athanasius, bishop & doctor of the Church

Home Mission Collection / APR. 27 & 28 April 2013 23

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

•

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Photo of the month by Fr. Peter Mangum Romans hold a sign during Pope Francis' first Sunday Angelus. The sign reads: Your simplicity has already won us over! Welcome, Pope Francis!

24 Catholic Connection