Catholic Connection

VOL. 18, NO. 11

JUNE 2009

> St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy: Helping Those in Need for 10 Years, p. 10 > Pope Visits Holy Land, Prays for Interreligious Harmony p.16 > Brother Michael Thang'wa to Profess Final Vows, p.6

Matthew Tyler Long Ordained to the Priesthood p. 12

From the Editor...

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 Sciba Dianne Rachal John Mark Willcox Featured Writers Carol Gates Kelly Phelan Fr. Matthew Long Sr. Edith Schnell John James Marshall Deborah Smith Fr. André McGrath Cindy Wooten Roy Petitfils 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

W

ith our June issue, our celebration of 20 years comes to a close.

What an amazing year it’s been.

We’ve seen a new president take office, Bishop Duca preside over a number of Masses and celebrations as bishop for the first time, a new priest ordained in the diocese and several great changes to the Catholic Connection itself.

Recently I was reading through an old Connection from February 2000, and came across this article: “The Connection has grown up a lot since August 1991: it began as an eight-page publication with a few pictures and graphics.

In August 1992 it grew to 12 pages with a few more pictures, graphics and writers. In August 1993, The Catholic Connection totaled 16 pages from cover to cover. That’s twice as many as when it began just two years earlier! Hopefully someday, we’ll jump to 20!” – Polly Maciulski, editor 1995 - 2002.

I sat there for a moment and

smiled to myself. The magazine has since grown in leaps and bounds. Beyond Polly’s hopes, the magazine is now 24 glossy, full-color pages. I would like to thank former editors as well as all of our editorial board members, writers, photographers and readers who have contributed to the Catholic Connection over the past 20 years.

The Catholic Connection takes a break each July to allow time for me to plan and prepare for future issues and begin work on the 2010 directory. I hope everyone has a great summer and I look forward to sending you our next issue in August!

–Jessica Rinaudo, Editor

Upcoming Events June 10 - National JustFaith Workshop at Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd. The main focus of this program is on domestic and international poverty with topics ranging from scriptural background, preferential option for the poor, causes of hunger, racism, nonviolence, consumerism, and third-world issues, to name a few. Participants meet weekly for 30 weeks and also participate in retreats and immersion experiences. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Barbara Biersmith 318-3228596. www.justfaith.org June 13 - Alzheimer’s Disease - A Family Process Seminar.

An attorney, social worker and geriatric psychiatrist will be in attendance. All are invited!

Cathedral of St. John Berchmans

Parish Hall. 318-221-5296. More info on page 22.

June 13 - RCIA Workshop: Questions & Answers Workshop to cover three topics: “The Annulment Process” by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo; “How to Recruit Sponsors” by Dianne Rachal; and “RCIA Dialogue” by Cathy Cobb.

Registration deadline: June 1. $20.00. Catholic Center, 9:00 a.m.

318-868-4578.

June 13-14 - 24-Hour Adoration from 11am to 11am A continuous adoration for vocations will be held leading up to and during the Corpus Christi procession, St. Michael Chapel at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans. Donna Barnard, 318221-5296

June 2009

Contents

From the Editor...

by Jessica Rinaudo..................................................2

Matthew Long Ordained to the Priesthood

by Jessica Rinaudo & John Mark WIllcox..............12-13

Bishop Michael Duca’s June & July 2009 Schedule...3

Poll Forum Unveils Religious Flux

by John Mark Willcox...............................................14-15

Bishop’s Reflection

by Most Rev. Michael Duca.....................................4-5 Brother to Profess Final Vows to Franciscans

by Fr. André McGrath..............................................6 Liturgy Lines

by Dianne Rachal.....................................................6

Soul Shaping

by Roy Petitfils..........................................................15 Pope Condemns Anti-Semitism, Prays for Interreligious Harmony

by Cindy Wooten....................................................16

Second Collections

by Fr. David Richter..................................................7

Greco Summer 2009 Schedule.....................................17-18

Twittering Catholic News

by Jessica Rinaudo..................................................7

Around the Diocese.......................................................20

News Briefs by Catholic News Service.........................19

Priest Spotlight: Rev. Matthew Long...........................8

Hispanic Corner / Nuestra Página por Rosalba Quiroz..................................................21

St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy: Helping Those in Need for 10 Years

by Kelly Phelan.........................................................9

Summer in the Slattery Library

by Deborah Smith....................................................22

School News ..................................................................10-11

Alzheimer's Seminar Offered

by Carol Gates........................................................22

A Saint for All Seasons... Saint Nicholas

by Kim Long............................................................11

June Calendar................................................................23

Eucharistic Procession & 24-Hour Adoration

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ll Priests, Deacons, Religious, Religious Groups, Knights of Columbus, Ladies Auxiliaries, Catholic Women Groups, Knights of St. Peter Claver, Knights of St. Gregory and all Catholic Faithful are cordially invited to attend the Fourth Annual Eucharistic Procession and 24-hour adoration in Celebration of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi beginning Saturday June 13, 2009.

The Walking Procession will start at the Catholic Center, 3500 Fairfield Avenue, at 9:00 a.m. and process to the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans.

The Monstrance will be placed in St. Michael Chapel following Benediction for 24-hour prayer and adoration for vocations.

Red Mass.........................................................................24

Bishop Duca’s June & July 2009 Schedule June 1, Memorial Mass for Father Govie Moraus, Holy Trinity Church; followed by Burial of Cremains at Rose Neath Cemetery, Bossier City, 2:00 p.m.

Lawrence Church, Swartz, 10:00 a.m.

June 17 – 19, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Spring Meeting, San Antonio, Texas.

June 20, Brother Michael Thang’wa, FMH. Ordination to the Order of Deacon to serve the Franciscan Missionaries of Hope, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, 11:00 a.m.

June 2 & 3, Episcopal Support Day, Abbey Christian Life Center, St. June 21, Confirmation at Our Lady Benedict, Louisiana. of the Blessed Sacrament Church, 9:00 a.m.

June 7, Confirmation at St. Benedict the Black Church, June 25 & 26, National Leadership Grambling, 10:00 a.m.

Roundtable on Church Management meeting, Wharton June 12, Andrew Dinner Social, St. School of Business at University of Jude Church, Bossier City, 6:30 Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. p.m.

July 1 – 18, Vacation.

June 13, Corpus Christi Procession, 8:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.

July 27 -30, Catholic Leadership Institute Workshop, Dallas.

June 14, Confirmation at St.

La Reflexión del Obispo Papa Juan Pablo Segundo habló en su documento Pastores Dabo Vobis: “Los presbíteros son, en la Iglesia y para la Iglesia, una representación sacramental de Jesucristo, Cabeza y Pastor, proclaman con autoridad su palabra; renuevan Bishop Duca congratulates Father Matthew Long on his ordination sus gestos de to the priesthood. perdón y de ofrecimiento a semana pasada tuve la de la salvación, principalmente con el oportunidad y el privilegio de Bautismo, la Penitencia y la Eucaristía; ordenar a Matthew Tyler Long ejercen, hasta el don total de sí mismos, como sacerdote de la Diócesis de el cuidado amoroso del rebaño, al que Shreveport. Fue un momento lleno de emoción para mi cuando al Imponerle las congregan en la unidad y conducen al Manos y decir la Oración de Ordenación Padre por medio de Cristo en el Espíritu. me sentí en la línea de los apóstoles y En una palabra, los presbíteros existen y ordene a este hombre, Matthew, con actúan para el anuncio del Evangelio al la autoridad y misión de actuar en la mundo y para la edificación de la Iglesia, persona de Cristo llevando el ministerio personificando a Cristo, Cabeza y Pastor, sacramental de la Iglesia a los fieles y y en su Espíritu”.(Pastores Dabo Vobis continuar el trabajo salvífico de Jesús en #15) el mundo.

El ministerio que realicé en mi Recuerdo muy bien el día de mi primera parroquia me permitió entrar ordenación. La noche anterior estaba en la vida de mis fieles de una manera nervioso y consciente del gran paso profunda así como y ellos entraron en mi que iba a dar. Tenía nervios por la vida. En estos encuentros la esperanza responsabilidad que iba a tomar, no por y ministerio de Jesus nos conectaron en mi decisión de ser sacerdote. Estaba una vida de entrega, unidad y amistad seguro de que era llamado al sacerdocio; en Cristo. En mi primera parroquia pero quería ser un buen sacerdote. Pero experimenté el poder de “repetir actos el próximo día me desperté con calma de perdón y ofrendas de salvación….” y confianza porque sabía que no era En la parroquia aprendí que importante solo mi trabajo, sino el trabajo de Cristo es el amor y la relación pastoral de en mí, y con Su ayuda estaría bien. El un sacerdote con su gente para poder pensar así ha probado ser el correcto descubrir gozo y desempeñar su cada día de mi vida como sacerdote. ministerio. También vi que bueno es un Pienso, que aun mas admirable que sacerdote que “muestra preocupación mi ordenación, fue el día que me di y amor al punto de entrega total de sí cuenta de la profundidad del ministerio mismo a su rebaño” puede llevar a su sacerdotal que tome cuando se me gente a una unión y sanación por medio entregó la responsabilidad de párroco en del trabajo de Cristo en Su Iglesia. mi primera parroquia, Todos los Santos Yo sé que Padre Matthew pronto en Dallas. Ahí comencé a entender descubrirá el gozo en su vida como la vida del sacerdocio de la que el sacerdote y espero que mas hombres 4 Catholic Connection June 2009

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jóvenes respondan a este llamado.

Cuando yo pensé por primera vez en ser un sacerdote quería ayudar a la gente imaginándome solo en encuentros personales, es decir con cada persona.

Ese fue el comienzo en un proceso de convertirme en un sacerdote. Ahora, al igual que una persona casada después de cinco años de matrimonio, entiendo que la vida al sacerdocio es mucho más.

El responder al llamado de Dios en el seminario y convertirme en sacerdote me mostró que no importa que tan grande pensemos que es nuestro sueño, Dios siempre tienen un plan mas grande para nuestra vida. Mi deseo original de ayudar a la gente se ha hecho realidad, pero ahora no es solo hacia una persona, sino como Obispo es para y con los mas de 40,000 Católicos de nuestra diócesis.

Dios nos llama a vidas grandes y de un trabajo importante. Nos llama a vivir una vida que pide más pero que nos da también más. No tengo ningún problema en animar a hombres jóvenes a considerar esta vocación por el gozo que me ha dado a mí y el gran trabajo que hecho de cambiar vidas en este ministerio.

Si tú o alguien que conoces está pensando en ser sacerdote, ¡anímalo!

Si tu estás pensando en la vida al sacerdocio tienes que entender que no es un trabajo, un proyecto o principalmente un desafío intelectual.

Tu te CONVIERTES en un sacerdote y estás llamado a una vida profundamente entregada al servicio de los demás por causa del Evangelio. En su más íntima realidad, la vida de un sacerdote es vivida en unión con su familia de su parroquia y de la iglesia. La vocación al sacerdocio es una invitación por Dios a una vida de Amor, una vocación donde serás llamado a vivir tu vida, “al punto de una entrega total de ti mismo a tu rebano”. (PDV # 15) si esta idea te suena interesante entonces este puede ser TU primer llamado de parte de Dios a pensar acerca de la vocación al Sacerdocio. No tengas miedo de Su llamado.

– Obispo Michael Duca

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Bishop’s Reflection

his past week I had the opportunity and privilege to ordain Mathew Tyler Long as a priest of the Diocese of Shreveport.

This was an awe-filled moment, when, with the Laying on of Hands and the Prayer of Ordination I stood in the line of the apostles and ordained this man, Matthew, with the authority and mission to act in the person of Christ to bring the sacramental ministry of the Church to the faithful and continue the saving work of Jesus in the world.

I remember well my ordination day. The night before I was nervous and aware of the big step I was taking. I was nervous because of the responsibility I was taking on, not my decision to be a priest. I was sure I was called to be a priest; I just wanted to be a good one. But the next day I awoke calm and confident because I knew it was not my work alone, but the work of Christ in me, and with His help I would be fine. That insight has proven correct every day of my life as a priest.

I don’t think, as awesome as the day of my ordination was, that I realized the depth of my priestly ministry until I took on the responsibilities of a parish priest at my first parish, All Saints Catholic Church in Dallas. Here I began to understand the life of the priesthood that Pope John Paul II spoke of in the document Pastores Dabo Vobis: “In the Church and on behalf of the Church, priests are a sacramental representation of Jesus Christ - the head and shepherd - authoritatively proclaiming his word, repeating his acts of forgiveness and his offer of salvation - particularly in baptism, penance and the Eucharist, showing his loving concern to the point of a total gift of self for the flock, which they gather into unity and lead to the Father through Christ and in the Spirit.” (Pastores Dabo Vobis #15) In my first parish my priestly ministry allowed me to enter into

Matthew Long lays prostrate before Bishop Duca at his ordination to the priesthood.

my parishioners’ lives in a profound way and they into mine. In these encounters the hope and ministry of Jesus connected us in a life-giving unity and friendship in Christ. In my first parish I experienced the power of “repeating acts of forgiveness and offers of salvation…” In the parish I learned how important the loving and pastoral relationship of a priest with his people is for discovering joy and fulfillment in his ministry. I also saw how a good priest who “shows his loving concern to the point of a total gift of self for the flock” could lead his people to be unified and healed by the work of Christ in His Church.

I know soon Father Matthew will discover this joy in his life as a priest and I hope more young men will answer this call. When I first thought about being a priest I wanted to help people, imagining only one-onone encounters. This thought was enough for me to start the process of becoming a priest. Now, like a married person after five years of marriage, I understand that the life of a priest is so much more. Answering God’s call in the seminary and becoming a priest showed me that no matter how big we think our dream is, God always has a bigger plan for our life. My original desire to help

people has come true, but now it is not just one-on-one, but as a Bishop for and with the 40,000 plus Catholics of our diocese.

God calls us to great lives and important work. He will call us to live a life that demands more but gives back more as well. I have no problem encouraging young men to consider this vocation because of the joy it has given me, and the great life-changing work I have done in my ministry.

If you know anyone who is thinking about being a priest, encourage him!

If YOU are thinking about this life then understand that it is not a job, or a project, or primarily an intellectual challenge. You BECOME a priest and are called to a deeply involved life in the service of others for the sake of the Gospel. In its most intimate reality the life of a Priest is lived in unity with the family of his parish and of the church. The vocation of priesthood is an invitation by God to a life of love, a vocation where you will be called to live your life, “to the point of a total gift of self for the flock”. (PDV #15) If this idea sounds interesting then this may be YOUR first call by God to think about a vocation to the priesthood. Do not be afraid of His call.

– Bishop Michael Duca 5

Brother to Profess Final Vows to Franciscan Missionaries of Hope

Brother Michael Thang'wa, FMH will profess vows at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Shreveport

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Liturgy Lines: Sing to

the Lord: Music in Divine Worship, Pt. 3 The Music

he Lyke Community: the Franciscan “ acred music is to be considered Missionaries of Hope the more holy, the more closely are pleased to announce connected it is with the liturgical that Brother Michael action, whether making prayer more Thang’wa, FMH will profess pleasing, promoting unity of minds, or his final vows on Friday, conferring greater solemnity upon the the 19th of June, 2009 at sacred rites.” Sacrosanctum Concilium, five o’clock in the evening no. 112. In selecting music for divine at Mass on the feast of the worship, it is important to keep in Sacred Heart of Jesus, at mind the ritual dimension, the spiritual Our Lady of the Blessed dimension and the cultural context.

Sacrament Church in The ritual dimension refers to the ways Shreveport. Fr. Nicholas in which sacred music is connected to the Onyach, FMH, Superior liturgical action. The musical setting must General of the Lyke allow the rite to unfold with the proper Community will receive participation of the assembly, without his vows. On Saturday, the overshadowing the words and actions of Feast of the Immaculate the Liturgy.

Heart of Mary, the 20th The spiritual dimension refers to the of June, Bishop Michael J. inner qualities of sacred music that allow Duca will ordain Brother it to add greater depth to prayer, unity Brother Michael Thang'wa will make his final Michael Thangw’a, FMH to the assembly, or dignity to the ritual. vows to the Franciscan Missionaries of Hope to the order of deacon at Sacred music is holy when it mediates the on June 19, 2009 at Our Lady of the Blessed Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. holiness of God and forms the people of Sacrament Church at 11 in God more fully into communion with him the priesthood, which he will the morning. A reception and with each other in Christ. complete in this coming year. will follow in the parish hall.

The cultural context is the setting in The Lyke Community: Brother Michael Thang’wa, which liturgy takes place, and includes the Franciscan Missionaries FMH, a native of Kenya, came such factors as the age, spiritual heritage, of Hope have served in the to the Diocese of Shreveport in and cultural and ethnic background of Diocese of Shreveport since November of 2003 and served as the liturgical assembly. The selection of October of 1998 and since pastoral assistant to Fr. Nicholas music for congregational participation will the first two brothers [now Onyach, FMH, then Pastor of St. often depend on those ways in which a Benedict the Black and University Father Francis Kamau, FMH particular group finds it best to join their and Father Jogues Abenawe, Chaplain in Grambling, and hearts and minds to the liturgical action.

FMH] came, 14 members of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help in The Church has safeguarded and community have come through Farmerville. Brother Michael celebrated her treasure house of sacred the community Lyke House on also pursued graduate studies music, while never ceasing to find new the campus of Our Lady of the in Franciscan Spirituality in ways to sing her love for God each new Blessed Sacrament Academy in the Franciscan Institute at day. In song, faith is experienced as Shreveport.

Saint Bonaventure University vibrant joy, love, and confident expectation For more information about in Olean, New York, where he of the saving intervention of God. Lyke Community, contact received the M.A. in Franciscan Bro. Paul Mutisya, FMH or Fr. Studies in May of 2006. After From Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine completing his novitiate in Kenya, Nicholas Onyach, FMH, 318Worship, USCCB, Nov. 14, 2007 425-1060, ndugus@hotmail. he returned to the USA in 2007 and Sacrosanctum Concilium, Second com, ptisyafmh@yahoo.com, to the Washington Theological Vatican Council, 1963. mcasembo@yahoo.com.

Union in Silver Spring, Maryland for theological preparation for – Fr. Andre McGrath, FMH – Dianne Rachal, Office of Worship

6 Catholic Connection June 2009

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Second Collections Peter’s Pence Collection Announcement Dates: June 14 & 21 Collection Dates: June 27 & 28

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ope Benedict XVI, in his first visit to the United States in April 2008, reminded Americans of the generosity for which our nation is known: “In the finest traditions of the Church in this country, may you also be the first friend of the poor, the homeless, the stranger, the sick and all who suffer. Act as beacons of hope, casting the light of Christ upon the world.”

The Peter’s Pence collection enables the Holy Father to respond quickly

to the requests of those suffering from oppression, natural disasters, war, and disease. That the Pope relies so much on American Catholics is seen in the fact that two years ago, the United States collection made up nearly one-third of all donations worldwide.

Our support makes a real difference in the lives of many.

How well did the diocese do?

Diocese of Shreveport Catholic Schools $ 18,643.75 – Fr. David Richter, Vicar General

Twittering Catholic News

Networking tool puts Catholic news at your fingetips

a “what are you doing” interface, Twitter is a valuable tool for staying up-to-date on nearly any topic you can think of!

Not surprisingly, Catholic news organizations and members of religious communities have jumped on the Twitter bandwagon. Just by typing in the words “Catholic” or “Diocese” in Home screen of the Catholic Connection's Twitter page. the Find People feature, Http://twitter/cathconnection you will get an extensive list of organizations and irst it was MySpace, then it was Facebook, and now it’s people you can follow. All you need Twitter. Social networking to do is sign up for a free account sites dominate the Internet and and start following the organizations conversation these days. you’re interested in.

The latest of these sites, Twitter After doing some searching, (http://twitter.com), allows you to reading and tweeting of my own, type phrases limited to 140 characters, I’ve discovered the following great which are posted for your “Followers” Catholic tweeters: to read. You can also follow other • twitter.com/CatholicNewsSvc – people to read their “tweets.”

Catholic News Service updates here Despite it’s initial appearance of all day long with the most up to date

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Catholic happenings around the globe, from Pope Benedict XVI meeting the royal family to the latest political decisions affecting the Catholic community.

• twitter.com/CatholicMeme – Catholic media on the internet including blogs, web sites and videos.

Offers links on a variety of topics.

• twitter.com/SaintOfTheDay Updated daily with information on the patron saint of the current day.

• Catholic Newspapers and Magazines across the globe, including: twitter.com/thecatholicsun, twitter. com/catholicherald, twitter.com/ Fla_Catholic.

The Catholic Connection is also now on Twitter. Follow us for information on upcoming events in the diocese, as well as links to ongoing Catholic events across the globe. Http:// twitter.com/cathconnection. You can also see our Twitter feed on our website, www.dioshpt.org.

We look forward to tweeting with you!

– Jessica Rinaudo, Editor 7

Priest Spotlight:

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Reverend Matthew Long

ow were you called to the priesthood?

I was raised a Southern Baptist in Plain Dealing, LA and was an active member of my faith community. In 1997 I graduated from college at Northwestern State University and began LSU Law School in Baton Rouge that year.

I made a commitment to God that I would faithfully attend church services every Sunday. I visited nearly every Southern Baptist Church in the city and finally settled on University Baptist. I was content there but I felt that God wanted something else from me. In my second year of Law School a classmate of mine invited me to attend Mass with him. After attending Mass over six months I felt God was calling me to enter into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. At the Easter Vigil of 2000 I entered full communion with the Church at St. Agnes Church in Baton Rouge. A month later I graduated from Law School and moved back to Plain Dealing.

I began visiting churches throughout the Shreveport/Bossier area. Although all the churches I visited appealed to me, it was St. Joseph Church in Shreveport that I felt most at home and so I registered as a parishioner there. I began attending the 5:45 p.m. daily Mass.

Watching Fr. Peter Mangum and Fr. Richard Lombard celebrate the Eucharist and preach soon caused a new stirring in my heart that God still wanted something more of me. In 2001 at the Good Friday Service I discovered what this was. During the Veneration of the Cross I watched Fr. Peter hold the large wooden cross and the strain it caused him as he continued to hold it while a long line of people came forward.

In this instance I knew God wanted me to be a priest.

In May of 2001 I began meeting monthly with Fr. Peter. He made me realize that I could not fully know what God was asking of me until I entered seminary to further discern my calling. I entered St. Meinrad Seminary in August 2004. During my time at St. Meinrad I grew closer to God and became more certain of what God was asking me to do. After five years of study, preparation and

8 Catholic Connection June 2009

prayer I was ordained on May 16, 2009.

Who has been a role model for you?

The most important role models for me are my parents, Michael and Deborah Long.

They have witnessed to me the importance of putting others before their own needs and desires and have done so in a tangible way.

I am blessed to have had such role models all of my life. Another important role model has been Fr. Peter Mangum. His love of the people he serves, his respect for the teachings of the Church and the prayerful and serious way he celebrates the liturgy all have had an effect on what type of priest I want to be.

Another important role model is Fr. Rothell Price. When I think of a good shepherd, I think of Fr. Price. He has an openness and a love for the people he shepherds and it has impressed me in a remarkable way. Fr. Mark Watson’s concern for those marginalized by our society has also made him an important role model for me. Other priests that stand out to me are Msgr. Carson LaCaze, Msgr. Edmund Moore, Fr. Richard Lombard and Fr. Patrick Scully. Each has demonstrated fidelity and a great love for being a priest even after many years of service. The fact that each of them has continued to serve the people of God after retirement has really been a great example.

Tell us about a hobby or activity that you enjoy in your free time.

One of the things I enjoy most is reading. I am a fan of mystery novels and could read a new book every day if I had the time. I also enjoy playing cards or board games. I don’t know how much other people enjoy it because I can be down right competitive and I hate to lose. Spending time with my family, attending games played by my nieces and nephews and working in the yard are all things I also enjoy. I also have a passion for LSU football. The saddest day of the year for me is usually when LSU plays their last game of the season. I also enjoy camping and fishing. I used to hunt some before Law School and Seminary so I will probably plan on doing that some more in the future as well.

“Watching Fr. Peter Mangum and Fr. Richard Lombard celebrate the Eucharist and preach soon caused a new stirring in my heart that God still wanted something more of me.”

St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy: Helping Those in Need for 10 Years

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r. David Matthews, a staff physician at St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe, created a pie chart with data concerning the impoverished people in his area who turned to the local emergency rooms when they needed their medications.

He found that the average person went nine times per year.

Betty Cummings and John Biglane, Pharmacist in Chief, show Bishop Michael Duca Around the same time, JoAnn around the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy in Monroe. Photo by John Mark Willcox.

Crone felt God call her to open a pool and disposes of expired drugs Way partner agency. It’s important pharmacy to serve the uninsured, free of charge. E.A. Conway Medical to Biglane that pharmacy patients underinsured and working poor.

Center screens patients and handles receive excellent service and maintain Crone, a longtime member of necessary paperwork before sending their dignity.

“The patients who come Monroe’s St. Vincent de Paul Society them to the pharmacy. The pharmacy here get better service than anyone chapter, found the task daunting at is open every Tuesday and Thursday can pay for,” he said.

The pharmacy first; she didn’t know anything about checks for drug interactions, counsels and has a full staff, including doctors running a pharmacy and wasn’t acquainted with any pharmacists. But patients about their medications and and nurses as well as pharmacists.

Altogether, the pharmacy’s volunteers “the Lord wanted it built,” she said, so performs health screenings. contribute roughly 100 hours per day.

Under Biglane’s directorship, build it she did.

“We have a great group of volunteers,” the pharmacy has seen drastic Ten years later, the St. Vincent Biglane said. improvements in its expenditures. de Paul Community Pharmacy in When Hurricane Katrina drove In 1999, when the pharmacy opened Monroe has dispensed 122,000 thousands of evacuees to Monroe, its doors, it purchased 40% of its prescriptions worth $8.5 million to the pharmacy was open five days a inventory, or about $40,000.

Now, qualified individuals regardless of week.

While other pharmacies gave thanks to 2001 legislation that their age, race, gender or religious evacuees a week’s worth of free allows nursing homes to donate beliefs. As the only free pharmacy medications, the St. Vincent de Paul unopened blister-pack drugs and north of Alexandria and east of Community Pharmacy gave patients a patient-assistance programs from Shreveport, it serves about 3,600 month’s worth. The National Football pharmaceutical companies, the unduplicated patients in 22 parishes.

League donated an 18-wheeler, towels pharmacy purchases 4% of its In the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and t-shirts for patients as well. Crone inventory, or about $8,000.

Crone and Rita it provided $100,000 worth points out that the pharmacy carries said, “In an emergency, our pharmacy of medications to evacuees. The Monroe Civic Center, located near the only life-sustaining drugs; they don’t is the best thing you’ve ever heard of!”

Fundraising for the pharmacy pharmacy, was an evacuation center, carry narcotics and, as a Catholic continues each year. In September organization, they do not fill birth and displaced people lined up around 2008, volunteers raised $20,000 with control prescriptions. the block. “We did what we always their annual Poor Man’s Supper and “Since we began, 57 to 60 percent do,” said John Biglane, Executive Auction. Bishop Michael Duca worked of our requirements come from the Director Pharmacist in Charge. as a special guest server to the community,” said Biglane.

Crone Biglane, who became involved delight of all who attended. He visited received the startup capital for with the pharmacy as a volunteer in the pharmacy for the first time two the pharmacy via a $100,000 grant 1999, switched to being a full-time weeks ago and was most impressed from the Sisters of Charity of the employee in mid-2001. In his position with the mission began by a group as Executive Director Pharmacist in Incarnate Word – an unheard-of of 30 volunteers. With our support, sum for a grant from the sisters at Charge, he handles the pharmacy’s the St. Vincent de Paul Community the time.

St. Francis Medical Center financial operations, audits, grant Pharmacy will continue its charitable provides facilities and all maintenance. writing, volunteer training and mission for generations to come.

Glenwood Regional Medical Center speaking engagements as a United –Kelly Phelan includes the pharmacy in their buying 9

School News

Dr. Patsy Jenkins, Superintendent Sr. Carol Shively, Principal Mrs. Jo Cazes and Fr. Peter Mangum.

Jesus the Good Shepherd School

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ongratulations to the following JGS student winners at the recent State Social Studies Fair!

1st place - Lauren Latham 1st place - Jefferson Manning and David Gardner 2nd place - Bianca Trejo and Lauren Barkimer 2nd place - Mitchell Webb and Cole Williamson — Missy McKenzie, Director of Development

St. John Berchmans School

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t. John Berchmans Catholic School is proud to announce that we are being recommended for the AdvancED/SACS accreditation. AdvancED provides schools and districts with a research-based accreditation system that crosses state, regional and national boundaries. To earn accreditation, schools and districts meet AdvancED quality standards, engage in continuous improvement, and demonstrate quality assurance through internal and external review. Our external review involved a visit from an AdvancED team, headed by Dr. Patsy Jenkins, visiting the school to meet with faculty, students, parents and administration. At the conclusion of their visit, the team, comprised of administration from across Louisiana, declared that they would be recommending us for accreditation.

– Katie Sciba, Secretary & Reading

St. Joseph School Science and Social Studies State participants: Ellis Rech, Neil Chandler, Nicholas Bryan, Joshua Ursua and Andrew Lukacs.

St. Joseph School

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t. Joseph School was well represented at the 2009 Louisiana State Science and Social Studies Fairs. Eighth graders Ellis Rech and Joshua Ursua competed at the Social Studies Fair and sixth graders Neil Chandler, Nicholas Bryan and Andrew Lukacs competed at the Science Fair. Joshua Ursua also competed in the Science Fair where he took second place. Neil Chandler received the Navy Award for his science project.

– Lucy Medvec, Director of Development

10 Catholic Connection June 2009

Our Lady of Fatima School

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n May 1, Mary Ann Lalehparvaran crowned Mary at Our Lady of Fatima’s 9:00 Mass honoring the Blessed Mother. Students also brought flowers for Mary.

— Stephanie Haney

Loyola College Prep

A Saint for All Seasons... Saint Nicholas

Saint Nicholas helps three virgins get married. Photo by Reinout van Rees.

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pril 29 was a busy day for Loyola senior Hannah Shirley.

First, she was presented with a plaque from Shreveport Community Renewal for her work as a volunteer. Hannah has worked as a volunteer at the Highland Friendship House for five years and has accumulated more than 2,000 hours. She works with kindergarten through fifth grade students in helping with reading.

A few minutes later at a school assembly in the gym, KTBSTV showed up for a “One Class at a Time” presentation. Hannah had written a grant proposal to the local ABC affiliate for a $1,000 award to help with the Book Drive she has championed for three years.

Through her work, Loyola’s Book Drive has added a new school each year and will now benefit three local elementary schools -- Creswell, Ingersoll and Barrett. Throughout April, Loyola students brought “gently-used” books to homerooms for distribution to the young students.

“All the kids are so surprised that they get to keep the books,” Hannah said. “They don’t realize they are free. Now, they look forward to when we come back to give out more books.”

— John James Marshall

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arriage, though we teach it as a vocation, is seldom one’s first thought upon hearing the word. I knew there was a patron saint for wives (St. Monica) but I didn’t know that there was a saint designated for brides and grooms! Enter St. Nicholas, whom we hear about briefly during Advent. How in the world did a bishop of a town in Turkey become associated with brides and grooms?

• The three words associated with St. Nicholas in all the stories I read are love, devotion and generosity.

• He was a confessor, that is, he confessed his love and beliefs in God. • He is revered worldwide throughout Christendom in not only the Roman Church, but the Orthodox sects as well as the Protestants.

• He was a bishop, a pre-curser to our modern day Santa Claus.

• He took the commandment to sell all he had and give to the poor of heart.

• His feast day is December 6.

• His tomb has been a pilgrimage site for centuries, so popular in fact that it was moved from Turkey to a more secure location in Italy.

• He is patron saint of over 100 areas.

One of the best-known stories about Nicholas concerns his charity

toward a poor man who was unable to provide dowries for his three daughters of marriageable age.

Rather than see them forced into prostitution, Nicholas secretly tossed a bag of gold through the poor man’s window on three separate occasions, thus enabling the daughters to be married.

Statues of St. Nicholas often show him holding three golden orbs or balls; these represent the three bags of gold given as dowries.

Today, while the lack of a dowry is not an impediment to making a good marriage, it is a lovely thought that St. Nicholas is happily praying for the bride and groom.

Love, generosity and devotion are three traits of healthy and happy marriages, I can think of no better patron for brides and grooms.

Here is a marriage prayer, though not attributed to St. Nicholas, appropriate for all couples.

Lord, help us to remember when we first met and the strong love that grew between us, to work that love into practical things so that nothing can divide us.

We ask for words both kind and loving, and for hearts always ready to ask forgiveness as well as to forgive.

Dear Lord, we put our marriage into Your hands. AMEN – Kim Long, DRE 11

Cover Story

Matthew lies prostrate on the floor in humilityto signify his need for God's help.

Matthew Tyler Long

Ordained to the Priesthood

By Jessica Rinaudo & John Mark Willcox • Photos by Jessica Rinaudo

n Saturday, May 16, 2009 the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans filled to the brim with those anxious and excited to see Matthew Tyler Long ordained to the priesthood.

At the beginning of the ceremony, Deacon Matthew Long sat next to his parents, laying his vestments to the side. Bishop Duca greeted him and the congregation with prayer, “This is a very special day. We are watching the handing on of the ministry of Christ in this unique sacramental gift to the Church from its earliest days.”

Deacon Long then lay prostrate in front of the altar during the Litany of Saints, signifying his need for God’s

12 Catholic Connection June 2009

help. Then followed the Laying on of Hands. Bishop Duca told Deacon Long, “the moment of Laying on of Hands – like stepping into the New Testament – at its core is a profound moment of handing on the teaching of Jesus from one generation to the next.” Bishop Duca then placed his hands on Matthew’s head and, with the Prayer of Consecration and blessings from other priests in attendance, Matthew Long arose as a priest.

Then followed the presentation of the candidate and Father Matthew Long solemnly promised obedience and respect to the Bishop and his successors. Bishop Duca extended his hands over Matthew and prayed the Prayer of Consecration. Reverend Aaron Jenkins, of the

Archdiocese of Indianapolis, and Reverend Guerric DeBona, of St. Meinrad Archabbey, came forward to vest Reverend Matthew with his stole and chasuble.

Father Matthew kneeled before Bishop Duca and his hands were anointed with Sacred Chrism, signifying that Father Matthew may now sanctify the Christian people and offer sacrifice to God. As the Mass drew to a close, Father Matthew addressed the congregation and his family and thanked them for their overwhelming support. Bishop Duca followed up on these comments by offering “heartfelt gratitude to the family of Matthew.”

Matthew Long is a convert to the Catholic faith, raised as a Southern Baptist in Plain Dealing, Louisiana where he enjoyed a safe and active childhood with two older siblings and a large extended family in the rural surroundings of a town of 1,200 people that emulates the environs of our diocese. After completing his undergraduate studies at Northwestern State University, Matthew went on to law school where he became interested in Catholicism through both his friends and the Catholic surroundings of Baton Rouge.

After coming into the Church during the 2000 Easter season in Baton Rouge, Matthew completed his law studies, sat for his Bar Exam and returned to Shreveport to work in the field of law. Involvement in his home Shreveport parish of St. Joseph Church was heavy, and a lifelong desire to serve others within the Church began to blossom within Matthew and he started seriously contemplating the priesthood in 2001, resulting in his acceptance as a diocesan seminarian in 2004. He completed his priestly training at St. Meinrad Seminary in Indiana in May of 2009.

After seven years without a priestly ordination in the Diocese of Shreveport, Matthew’s entrance into the priesthood brought joy and excitement to everyone across the diocese. But perhaps no one was as joyful as Reverend Matthew. When he entered the transitional diaconate, Fr. Matthew said, “None of these promises were entered into lightly, and after years of discernment I felt truly called to make this commitment.” During his ordination service, this joy and commitment radiated through him as he greeted and thanked the people of the diocese, his fellow seminarians and teachers, as well as his family for their support for him throughout his seminary days.

The people and clergy of the Diocese of Shreveport are truly thankful Matthew answered this vocational call. Fr. Matthew said his first Mass on Sunday, May 17 at St. Joseph Church in Shreveport. Beginning June 16, 2009, Reverend Matthew Long will serve as Parochial Vicar at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church in Monroe and Chaplain at St. Frederick High School for an appointment of two years.

Fellow priests lay their hands on Matthew as a sign of unity.

Father Matthew thanks the Diocese of Shreveport, his fellow seminarians and his family.

Father Matthew Long blesses Bishop Duca.

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Pew Forum Poll Unveils Religious Flux

Study on Religion and Public Life Reveals Some Faithful Simply "Drift Away"

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he much-anticipated Pew Forum poll on Americans and their religious affiliation was recently released, garnering slight attention from the secular press despite some very interesting findings about faith habits within our country. Observations relative to Catholicism have raised some eyebrows in both the negative and positive columns.

One of the most startling findings showed that Catholics and Protestants leave their church, not because of anger or a particular incident, but because “they just gradually drifted away from their faith.” It seems these “drifters” are a moving target and we, as Church, may be missing the mark. The Pew Forum suggests that concern needs to be directed toward “disaffected youth,” a point that should not be lost within a nation where almost half of Catholics who are now unaffiliated left the Church before their eighteenth birthday.

Relative to the fiber of American Catholicism, there are both negative and positive points. One Pew Forum claim is that Catholicism has suffered the greatest net loss in the process of religious change in America. One must remember, however, that this is natural considering the immense size of the Catholic Church in our nation compared to other Christian faith traditions that share our spiritual landscape. Over 67 million residents of the United States professed to be Catholic in 2008, easily the largest Christian denomination in the nation. It is also meaningful to note that millions more Americans think of themselves as Catholic, but have never officially registered with a Church parish. While these figures are of great interest, the Pew study fails to point out this glaring truth.

When it comes to specific reasons people cited for leaving

14 Catholic Connection June 2009

that “adolescence is a critical time the Catholic Church there are few in religious development,” and surprises: family issues (divorce), “what happens in the teen years has Church teaching on abortion, a long-lasting effect. We have to birth control, homosexuality and help young people and their parents treatment of women by the Church appreciate the importance of going top the list. The least cited of these to weekly Mass so teenagers know specific reasons is child sexual Jesus is there for them now and abuse. Perhaps we have turned always.” a corner on that issue, and it is Looking to the positive aspects important to remember that only of the Pew Forum relative to the 2% of participants mentioned this issue in the open-ended question segment.

The key reason people give for leaving a denomination is the mystical zinger; “I just drifted away.”

For those of us who labor in the evangelical/ sociological field of trying to understand God’s call to the faithful, this might be ample Catholics and Protestants alike cite gradually drifting away as a main material for reason for leaving their childhood religion. (CNS graphic/Emily future study. Thompson) It remains Catholic Church in America, one obvious that young people coming point stands out: The Catholic of age do not feel connected to their Church has a higher rate of faith and this is most troubling retention (68%) than any other indeed. The CARA Center of Christian denomination, except Washington DC calls the disaffected Mormons. This is a truly remarkable teenager the “Poster Child” of percentage in a modern society former Catholics and it is plain where over one half of Christian that the spiritual needs of this age Americans change denominations group are not being met. This fact at some point in their lives. The Pew must change as soon as possible.

Forum found the chief predictor of In a statement issued by the U.S. whether or not one remains Catholic Conference of Catholic Bishops, is Mass attendance in childhood Washington Archbishop Donald W. and teenage years. The Church Wuerl said the report highlights

has made recent efforts to make the worship experience as meaningful as possible by way of reverence for the holy, appropriate music, inspiring scripture readings and prepared homilies. The revision of the Roman Missal (scheduled for next year) is part of this effort.

Among former Catholics who are now Protestant the most common reason for changing faith traditions cited by 70% of the participants is that they “found a religion they liked more.” Rather than cultural issues so often touted by the media, these respondents claimed to enjoy another Christian faith tradition with

One of the most startling findings showed that Catholics and Protestants leave their church, not because of anger or a particular incident, but because “they just gradually drifted away from their faith.” a “different biblical perspective.” It seems our region is not called “the Bible-belt” for nothing! The study indicates people are not angry with Christianity, but are searching for something.

Studies like these come and go, but having one done by a third-party organization with a good reputation makes the Pew Forum on Americans and their religious affiliation very interesting despite some flaws in reporting on the empirical data. Let us not forget there remains a large percentage of Americans who are unchurched, even in the Bible-belt south. We would do well as a Church to allow information like this to help us concentrate on where we are lacking in promoting the gospel of Jesus Christ, as we continue to set our sights on these “drifting targets” both within our ranks, and elsewhere.

– John Mark Willcox, Director of Communications

Soul Shaping

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haim Potok, the renowned Jewish novelist, knew at a very young age that he wanted to be a writer. It wasn’t until after he was already in college that his mother sat him down and said, “Chaim, I know you want to be a writer, but I have a better idea. Why don’t you be a brain surgeon? You’ll keep a lot of people from dying, and you’ll make a lot of money.”

“No mamma.”, he said. “I want to be a writer.”

As mothers often do, she persisted. When he returned home from college one summer she tried again, “Chaim, I know you want to be a writer, but listen to your mamma, be a brain surgeon. You’ll keep a lot of people from dying, and you’ll make a lot of money.”

Again, Chaim replied, “I want to be a writer.”

She wouldn’t drop it, and broached the subject yet again.

“Chaim, I know you want to be a writer, but you’re wasting your time! Be a brain surgeon. You’ll keep a lot of people from dying and you’ll make a lot of money.” This time, Chaim exploded, “I don’t want to keep people from dying. I want to show them how to live!”

Like many of you, there are lots of other things I could do with my time. There are other career paths I could have chosen that would pay more money. There are times when, I cringe when someone asks me “What do you do?” Often I say, somewhat sheepishly, “I’m a teacher.” Response, “Oh, that’s nice.”

This doesn’t just happen to teachers. It happens when someone decides to become a youth minister. It happens when a young man or woman considers a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. It

happens when volunteers commit their evenings, weekends and holidays in order to “hang out with kids”. It happens when parents decide to make sacrifices in their career (or from even having a career) so that they may be more available to influence the lives of their children.

So perhaps this will help.

Next time someone asks you what you do, before you respond, stop. Consider for a moment that what you do is much broader and deeper than your “title” conveys.

Consider that what you really do is show others how to live.

You don’t just teach. You’re not just a volunteer. You are not just a youth minister. You are certainly not just a parent.

You are a soul shaper.

The difference you make cannot be measured in a bank statement, on a transcript, a resume or even in a collection basket.

When you take the time to show one young person how to live, when you give of yourself to help shape the soul of one kid, you are sculpting a desperately needed image of God in our world.

– Roy Petitfils 15

Pope Condemns Anti-Semitism, Prays for Interreligious Harmony

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ERUSALEM (CNS) -- Reaching Israel, the country at the heart of his pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Pope Benedict XVI condemned antiSemitism and prayed for a new era in which all believers in the one God would live in peace and treat each other with respect and justice.

In his arrival speech May 11 at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, the pope prayed that Isaiah’s prophecy would be fulfilled and all the peoples of the world would walk along God’s paths -“paths of peace and justice, paths that lead to reconciliation and harmony.”

The pope was welcomed at the airport with warm handshakes from Israeli President Shimon Peres and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as the greetings of other government officials and representatives from Israel’s Christian, Jewish and Muslim communities.

From the moment he arrived, the German-born pope honored the memory of the 6 million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II and condemned anti-Semitism, which “continues to rear its ugly head in many parts of the world.”

“This is totally unacceptable,” he said.

Pope Benedict told the leaders, “I come, like so many others before me, to pray at the holy places, to pray especially for peace -- peace here in the Holy Land, and peace throughout the world.”

The pope said that although Jerusalem means “city of peace,” unfortunately, “for decades peace has tragically eluded the inhabitants of this holy land.”

“The eyes of the world are upon the peoples of this region as they struggle to achieve a just and lasting solution to the conflicts that have caused so much suffering,” Pope Benedict said.

16 Catholic Connection June 2009

Pope Benedict XVI observes a moment of silence in the Hall of Remembrance at Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem May 11. Speaking at the memorial, the pope said the suffering of Jews under the Nazi extermination campaign must "never be denied, belittled or forgotten." (CNS photo/Yannis Behrakis, Reuters) (May 11, 2009))

As he had said in Jordan on the first leg of his trip, Pope Benedict told Israelis that peace and justice in the region require respect for the religious identity of each person, guaranteed access to their holy sites and an acknowledgment of the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace “in a homeland of their own within secure and internationally recognized borders.”

Speaking at the airport, Peres told the pope he saw the papal trip as “an important spiritual mission of the highest order: a mission of peace; a mission of planting seeds of tolerance and uprooting the weeds of fanaticism.”

The president said, “We have made peace with Egypt and Jordan, and we are in negotiations to make peace with the Palestinians; we may also arrive at a comprehensive regional peace in the near future.”

Seeing the pope off at the airport in Amman that morning, Jordan’s King Abdullah II said, “It is vital to make justice real for those who suffer today, whether from occupation, deprivation or disrespect.”

“For too long the Middle East has been entangled in conflict,” the king told the pope. “The Palestinian people, in particular, have suffered under occupation and its evil. It is time this

situation ended through a settlement that will guarantee the Palestinians their rights to freedom and statehood and give Israelis the acceptance and security they need.”

The king said, “The two-state solution” -- fully independent and recognized nations for Israelis and for Palestinians -- “enjoys the support of the international community precisely because it offers the only promise of lasting peace.”

As he began his visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, Pope Benedict had a special word of encouragement for the area’s Christian communities “By your faithful witness to him who preached forgiveness and reconciliation, by your commitment to uphold the sacredness of every human life, you can make a particular contribution to ending the hostilities that for so long have afflicted this land,” the pope said.

In a region marked by the continuing emigration of Christians, the pope told Catholics of the Holy Land, “I pray that your continuing presence in Israel and the Palestinian territories will bear much fruit in promoting peace and mutual respect among all the peoples who live in the land of the Bible.”

– Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service

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18 Catholic Connection June 2009

News Briefs by

Catholic News Service

Pope Creates Five Saints, says they hold lessons for economic crisis

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI canonized five new saints and said their dedication to the Eucharist, the poor and the world of work made them models for today’s Christians in an era of economic crisis. By orienting their lives to Christ, the five men and women showed that “it is possible to lay the foundations for construction of a society open to justice and solidarity, overcoming that economic and cultural imbalance that continues to exist in a great part of our planet,” the pope said. The pope celebrated the canonization Mass in St. Peter’s Square April 26, joined by tens of thousands of pilgrims who held up photos or drawings of the Pope Benedict XVI leaves a written prayer at the Western Wall, Judaism's saints. Four of the new saints were Italian and holiest prayer site, in the Old City of Jerusalem May 12. The prayer appealed one was Portuguese. Dressed in bright gold to God to bring "your peace upon this Holy Land, upon the Middle East, upon the entire human family." ( CNS photo/David Silverman/pool photo via Reuters) vestments, the 82-year-old pontiff listened as biographies of the five were read aloud, and then In Jerusalem, Pope walks into politics of pronounced the canonization formula, drawing interreligious dialogue applause from the crowd. Afterward, relics of JERUSALEM (CNS) -- On his first day in Jerusalem, Pope Benedict the new saints were brought to the altar. In his XVI received a double lesson in the politics of interreligious dialogue. At homily, the pope said the saints’ life stories hold the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial May 11, his graceful and at times valuable lessons for modern Christians. Each of poetic speech left some Jewish leaders dissatisfied because it failed to talk the newly canonized had a special devotion to the about the Nazi perpetrators and the church’s own failings during World Eucharist, and each transformed that spiritual War II. Addressing interfaith dialogue experts shortly afterward, the pope power into social action, he said. listened as a Muslim cleric took the microphone and denounced Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands, prompting some Jewish participants to Bishops launch new campaign walk out and cutting the program short. The pope’s “pilgrimage of peace” against embryonic stem-cell was clearly not immune from the real-world divisions among Christians, research Muslims and Jews. At Yad Vashem, the pope chose to give a talk that WASHINGTON (CNS) -- As the National explored the concept of “name” and “remembrance” that are key to the Institutes of Health continued to gather memorial, and his brief encounter with six Holocaust survivors left them comments on the draft guidelines that would moved and grateful for the visit. But it didn’t take long for some Jewish permit federal funding of embryonic stemleaders to fault the pope for what he did not say. After describing the visit cell research, the U.S. Conference of Catholic as “positive, important, a step forward,” Avner Shalev, chairman of the Bishops launched a new campaign urging Yad Vashem directorate, said he was disappointed that “the pope did not support for ethical cures and treatments “we mention the Nazi German perpetrators” of the Holocaust. can all live with.” The “Oppose Destructive Stem-Cell Research” campaign at www.usccb.

Vatican, Arab League sign new agreement to org/stemcellcampaign also encourages Web promote peace, dialogue users to contact Congress and NIH to express VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The Vatican and the 22-member League of opposition to the draft guidelines. May 26 is the Arab States have signed an agreement to strengthen joint projects to promote peace and dialogue, especially on a political and cultural level. The NIH deadline for public comment on the draft official memorandum of understanding was signed April 23 at the Vatican guidelines, which would allow the use of federal funds for stem-cell research on embryos created

by Archbishop Dominique Mamberti, secretary for relations with states, and Amr Moussa, secretary-general of the Arab League. The Vatican press for reproductive purposes at in vitro fertilization office said Pope Benedict XVI would meet privately with Moussa, a former clinics and later discarded. Donald M. Raibovsky, foreign minister of Egypt, at the Vatican the evening of April 24. According an NIH spokesman, said a total of 13,503 to a Vatican statement, the new agreement “further consolidates the bonds comments on the stem-cell guidelines had been received as of May 8. The home page for the of collaboration existing between the Holy See and the League of Arab States, especially on a political and cultural level in favor of peace, security new campaign outlines the reasons the proposed guidelines are considered unacceptable and and regional and international stability.” The agreement also “proposes instruments of consultation between the two parties with attention also to provides links to USCCB resources on stem-cell research in English and Spanish. initiatives of interreligious dialogue,” the statement said.

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Around the Diocese...

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St. John Confirmation Student Presents Bishop with Gift die Martone, a First Communion student at St. John the Baptist Church in Many, presents Bishop Duca with a special gift honoring his first anniversary as the Bishop of the Diocese of Shreveport.

The poster is a collage of pictures of Bishop Duca celebrating Mass at St. John’s last fall.

– Shirley Rivers

Western Deanery Red Mass estern Deanery Red Mass took place at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Downtown Shreveport on Friday, May 1. The Knights of Columbus were honored and Honorable Catherine D. Kimball, Chief Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court, attended.

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Confirmands in Zwolle Celebrate Bishop's 31st Anniversary to the Priesthood ednesday, April 29, 2009 St. Joseph Church in Zwolle helped Bishop Micael Duca celebrate his 31st anniversary to the priesthood. After confirmation was completed, a member of the First Communion class presented Bishop Duca with a sweet olive tree. The tree will be planted at St. Joseph Church in Zwolle in Bishop’s honor.

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Mary Crowned at St. Paschal Church n Mother’s Day, May 10, 2009, Michael Pruden assisted

by Asa Stone crowned our Blessed Virgin Mary at St. Paschal Church in West Monroe. Mary is Queen and our spiritual Mother. A reception prepared by the Altar Society followed the ceremony.

–Sr. Edith Schnell

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20 Catholic Connection June 2009

Hispanic Corner

Nuestra Página

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on alegría hemos recibido la noticia de que este año, desde el 19 de junio de 2009 al 19 de junio de 2010, celebraremos el año sacerdotal. Es un tiempo en que el Papa Benedicto XVI nos invita a intensificar nuestra oración por los sacerdotes para que nos conceda vivir, en estos tiempos y siempre, con fidelidad y generosidad la entrega total en la excelsa vocación que hemos recibido.

Tomemos en serio esta petición y oremos con confianza a Dios por los sacerdotes.

Y precisamente, es en este mes de junio, mes del Sagrado Corazón cuando se nos invita a vivir tal año ya que, como sabemos, la devoción al Sagrado Corazón, va muy de la mano a la devoción de Cristo Sacerdote.

En efecto, alabar al sagrado Corazón, quiere decir proclamar el amor de Dios, manifestado en esta imagen tierna de Jesús, con mirada serena y penetrante, que externiza su amor, mostrando el corazón resplandeciente, coronado de espinas, con una llama encendida arriba y una pequeña cruz; es un corazón ardiente de amor por todos, tal como tenía que ser, manifestación clara de que como Sacerdote por excelencia, ofrece el auténtico sacrificio, es decir, se ofrece El mismo, por la salvación de todos nosotros. La otra mano de la

imagen se muestra en señal de estar dando la bendición.

Nuestras comunidades hispanas y nuestras familias han tenido especial devoción a esta imagen; prueba de ello son los festejos en torno a todo el mes, conocido así, como mes del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, con el rezo del Rosario, ofrecimiento de velas y flores, etc., y la fiesta de culminación de los primeros viernes de cada mes, donde se celebra el sacramento de la confesión y la Eucaristía durante nueve meses consecutivos y sin interrupción, con la intención de ir haciendo nuestro corazón mas a semejanza del Corazón de Cristo, que quiere decir, ese deseo bíblico de asemejar nuestra vida a la de nuestro Dios, “sed perfectos, como vuestro Padre celestial es perfecto” y así como nos ama, amarlo a El y por supuesto también a nuestros hermanos.

Celebremos pues, con devoción al Sagrado Corazón de Jesus y junto con ello, en este año especial, como decíamos, ofrezcamos nuestras oraciones sinceras por todos los sacerdotes del mundo y de modo especial por los que nos atienden y hacen el esfuerzo por acercarse más a nosotros como hermanos católicos que

Misas

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

Representante: Teresa Pérez Tel: 318-871-8037

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

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

somos.

“SAGRADO CORAZON DE JESUS: PERDONANOS Y SE NUESTRO REY” “SAGRADO CORAZON DE JESUS: EN VOS CONFIO. AMEN” Artículo escrito por el Sacerdote: Francisco Javier Varela Delgadillo, C.O.R.C.

Calendario Diocesano de los Meses do Junio y Julio Junio 14 – Festividad del Cuerpo y la Sangre de Cristo Junio 16 – Celebración del 23 aniversario del establecimiento de la Diócesis Junio 21 – Celebración del día del Papá Julio 11 – Reunión del Comité Ejecutivo, Shreveport, LA / Executive Committee meeting in Shreveport Julio 25 - Agosto 3 – Taller de Asesores Adultos para la Pastoral Juvenil, Orlando, FL

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 21

Summer in the Slattery Library

Alzheimer’s Seminar Offered

I

have a few suggestions for those summertime blues -- for those days when it’s too hot to breathe!

-- How about a movie? We have many of the new releases.

If you are facing some real life issues and you need some answers, you may find the following to be helpful: Plain Talk about Alzheimer’s Disease, Embracing Aging, Beginning and End of Life Issues, At Death’s Door, Beyond Death’s Door and When Your Parent Needs You. We also have some inspiring accounts of the lives of saints and holy people. These would also be excellent for Bible study groups.

If you would like to check out our other titles online, log onto the diocesan website at www.dioshpt. org. On the right side of the page click on “Slattery Library Online”.

Use the “Library Search” tab to see a complete list of our titles.

To see our entire collection, please come in and browse. Pick out a couple of videos, pop some corn, and enjoy an afternoon – compliments of the Slattery Library!

– Deborah Smith, Librarian

A

lzheimer’s disease, according to research, is a deterioration in mental functioning resulting from changes in brain tissue, including shrinking of brain tissue not caused by disorders of the blood vessels. Alzheimer’s is fast becoming one of the most diagnosed diseases in the elderly.

Do you have a loved one or know of someone suffering from this disease? Estimates indicate that four million people have Alzheimer’s, and currently there is no cure. This disease affects every member of the family.

Once a family member is diagnosed with the disease, it becomes a test of love and patience for their children/caregivers, as they search for ways to provide the

best care possible for their loved one. The difficulties for the family are numerous, beginning with the emotional pain and heartache of seeing someone who once cared for them now requiring their care.

The Alzheimer’s Seminar will talk about options for caring for family members and oneself.

Saturday, June 13, 9:00 a.m. to noon, in St. John Berchmans Parish Hall (in the school building). This seminar will provide information on caring for Alzheimer’s patients, in-patient treatment and referral, advance directives, nursing home placement and suggestions on where to go for help.

Seminar Speakers include: Dr. Lloyd D. Bellah, a Board Certified Psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry; Patricia Miramon, Attorney at Law; Jacqueline Pace Manuel, Social Worker; Ruth W. Pledger, Licensed Professional Counselor and Consulting Geriatric Nurse.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the disease for yourself and your loved one! Call St. John’s Church office, 318-221-5296, if you plan to attend.

– Carol Gates

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___________________________________________________________________________________

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

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

22 Catholic Connection June 2009

June 2009

Sunday

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

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Parish "Social Ministry Training," Baton Rouge

Justin, martyr

Marcellinus & Peter, martyrs

Confirmation, St. Benedict the Black Church, Grambling, 10am

Charles Lwanga, martyr, & his companions, martyrs

23rd Anniversary of the Establishment of the Diocese of Shreveport

Confirmation, St. Lawrence Church, Swartz, 10am

Father's Day

Serra Club Corpus Christi Procession, Catholic Center, 9am

Protecting God's Children, Catholic Center, 6pm

Continuous Adoration for Vocations, St. Michael's Chapel

Confirmation, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, Shreveport, 9am

Anthony of Padua, priest & doctor

Barnabas, apostle

USCCB Spring Meeting Begins, San Antonio

Serra Club Meeting, Catholic Center, 12pm

The Nativity of John the Baptist

Summer Begins

Norbert, bishop

Church Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Center, 12pm

Ephrem, deacon & doctor

Feast of the Body & Blood of Christ

Boniface, bishop & martyr

The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

The Immaculate Heart of Mary

USCCB Spring Meeting Ends

Bro. Michael Thang'wa Professes Vows, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, 11am

Second Collection: Peter's Pence

Fr. Joseph Howard's 20th Anniversary to the Priesthood

Paulinus of Nola, bishop; John Fisher, bishop & martyr, Thomas More, martyr

Cyril of Alexandria, bishop & doctor

Seminarian Summer Assignments Second Collection: Peter's Pence

The First Holy Martyrs of the Holy Roman Church

Peter & Paul, apostles

Philip Neri, priest

John Bosco Nyirenda will be taking extra academic course work and be assigned to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish in Shreveport.

Joshua Sanders will also be taking some extra academic course work, and will be working locally while residing at Christ the King in Bossier City.

23

DIOCESE

OF

3500 Fairfield Ave.

SHREVEPORT •

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Knights of Columbus Prepare for Red Mass at Holy Trinity.

Photo by Jessica Rinaudo.

24 Catholic Connection June 2009