Catholic Connection June 2010

VOL. 19, NO 11

JUNE 2010

Vacation

Bible

School

pg. 12

Vatican Confirms New Version of Roman Missal, pg.6 Diocese of Shreveport to Celebrate 24th Anniversary, pg. 16

From the Editor

by Jessica Rinaudo, 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 Contributors Ginger Broussard Anna Provenza Sr. Patricia Cairns Dana Smeiser Althea Dayton Deacon Mike Straub Peter Finney, Jr. Fr. Philip Susan Flanagan Theempalangattu Nicole Goad Mike Wise Kelly Phelan Editorial Board Cathy Cobb Rev. Charles Glorioso Kim Long Kelly Phelan

Dianne Rachal Christine Rivers Christie Weeks John Mark Willcox

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: C atholic 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 1-800-256-1542, ext. 265 or 318-219-7265 or email rquiroz@dioshpt.org

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his June issue of the Catholic Connection will be the last of the summer. In July, the Catholic Connection will take a break so we can develop and complete the annual Diocesan Directory. Publication of the Catholic Connection will resume again with our August 2010 issue.

By now parishes, priests,

deacons, men and women religious and diocesan Catholic organizations should have received their directory update forms. Please return them by July 1, 2010 so we can ensure a timely and accurate diocesan directory.

If you are interested in advertising in the annual directory, please contact me at jrinaudo@ dioshpt.org, or call 318-868-4441.

May you have a blessed and happy summer!

Archbishop Aymond Asks for Prayers and Aid for Those Affected by Oil Spill

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ew Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond is calling on local Catholics to respond to the crisis facing fishermen and their families as a result of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. In a letter dated May 12, the archbishop made two requests of the Catholic community: to pray with him that through the intercession of Our Lady of Prompt Succor God will give safety for the people and the wildlife of the Gulf Coast and to offer a gift to Catholic Charities that can be given to those most in need.

Archbishop Aymond was among the first group of responders to visit St. Bernard and Plaquemines Parish officials as the threat of the oil spill became apparent, making his visit to pray and bless emergency workers on May 1. Since then, the Catholic Church through Catholic Charities and Second Harvest Food Bank has been on the ground setting up distribution sites and providing case management and crisis counseling services. More than 500 families have benefited directly from Catholic Charities emergency aid, but as the days go on, more families are in need of services and the list of needs is growing.

“Thus far we have been able to give direct assistance by providing food, baby supplies, counseling and

Catholic Charities volunteer helps fishing family affected by oil spill. (Peter Finney Jr., Clarion Herald)

case management for those who are not able to work and whose future is threatened,” wrote the archbishop.

“These hardworking people struggling now to save their way of life as generational fishermen need our prayers and support.”

The archbishop also acknowledged the work of the Catholic priests in the area who have worked to provide both pastoral and spiritual care for their people as well as connect them with Catholic Charities and others providing assistance for the affected communities.

To give directly to the relief efforts, donations may be made online to Catholic Charities at www. ccano.org.

On the Cover: Courtney Mobley, Sarah Bissell and Seth Stevens participate in Vacation Bible School at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport.

(Photo by Michelle Mobley).

June 2010

Contents

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From the Editor by Jessica Rinaudo............................................ 2 Archbishop Aymond Asks for Prayers and Aid for Those Affected by Oil Spill............................................................. 2 Bishop Michael Duca’s June & July 2010 Schedule.................... 3 Bishop’s Reflection by Most Reverend Michael G. Duca............ 4-5 Liturgy Lines: Come, Let Us Worship by Dianne Rachal............. 6 Vatican Confirms New Version of Roman Missal

by Catholic News Service.................................................... 6 Peter's Pence by Fr. David Richter.............................................. 7 As Matters Stand by Sr. Patricia Cairns....................................... 7 Priest Spotlight: Fr. Philip Theempalangattu ............................. 8 National Right to Life Announces Local Pro-Life Oratory Contest Winners by Susan Flanagan...................................9 St. John Berchmans Science Olympiad Team Wins State Title by Katie Sciba.......................................... ..9 Louisiana Schools Donation Brings New Life to Maple Mount....10 USCCB's Response to Sexual Abuse...........................................10 School News....................................................................................11

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Vacation Bible School by Kelly Phelan........................................... .12 Planting Seeds All Year Long: Saints for Vacation Bible School by Kim Long........................................................ 14 Sr. Suny Receives Top Nurses Honor by Dana Smeiser.............. 14 Church Seeks to Help Louisiana Fishing Community Face Latest Challenge by Peter J. Finney, Jr................................... 15 Celebration of the 24th Anniversary of the Diocese of Shreveport by Dianne Rachal................................ 16 NA Forum to Present Workshop by Dianne Rachal.................... 16 Diocese Hosted Men's Discernment Retreat by Fr. David Richter.17 Greco Institute Sponsores Two Catholic Education Programs

by Ginger Broussard................................................................ 17 Hispanic Corner / Nuestra Página por Rosalba Quiroz............... 18 News Briefs by Catholic News Service . ..................................... 19 Around the Diocese................................................................ ....20 Discerning the Permanent Diaconate by Michael Straub............21 Upcoming Events ........................................................................22 June & July 2010 Calendars.........................................................23 Red Mass Honored Those Who Administer Law........................... 24

Bishop Michael Duca’s June & July 2010 Schedule

June 1 Presbyteral Council Meeting, Catholic Center; 1:00 p.m.

24th Anniversary and 100th Anniversary of the Diocese

of Alexandria; 5:30 p.m.

June 4 Farm Workers’ Mass, Dawson Farm, Delhi; 6:00 p.m.

June 23 Investment Committee Meeting, Catholic Center, June 6 Confirmation, St. Ann Church, Stonewall; 9:00 a.m.

Shreveport; 10:30 a.m.

June 6 Spanish Mass, St. Mary of the Pines Church, June 25 North American Forum on the Catechumenate Institute

Shreveport; 1:00 p.m.

for RCIA, Catholic Center; Greeting and Opening June 8 Catholic Women’s League, St. Joseph Church,

Remarks; 9:00 a.m.

Shreveport; 10:00 a.m.

June 26 Mass and Dedication of New Stained Glass Windows, June 9 Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Center; 12:00 p.m.

Mary, Queen of Peace Church, Bossier City; 4:00 p.m.

June 10 Clinical Pastoral Education Program Closing Prayer

Service & Luncheon, Christus Schumpert–St. Mary

Place, Shreveport; 11:00 a.m.

June 27 Spanish Mass, St. Mary of the Pines Church,

Shreveport; 1:00 p.m.

June 11 Spanish Mass, St. Paul Church, Minden; 7:00 p.m.

June 28 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program, Catholic

Center; 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

June 13-19 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’

Spring Meeting, St. Petersburg, Florida

June 30 Diocesan Finance Council Meeting, Catholic Center;

12:00 p.m.

June 20 Father’s Day – Visiting Dad; Dallas

July 1-31 Vacation - Dates to be determined.

June 22 Mass at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans,

Shreveport, celebrating the Diocese of Shreveport’s

July 26 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program, Catholic

Center; 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

OBISPO

La Reflexión del Obispo por Obispo Michael G. Duca

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la cual marca el 24 aniversario del establecimiento de la Diócesis de Shreveport y el aniversario de los 100 años de la diócesis de Alexandria, Diócesis de la cual nosotros descendemos. Estoy invitando a cada parroquia a enviar uno o dos feligreses a esta Misa para que cada parroquia pueda estar presente con una vela conmemorativa de la Diócesis de Alexandria para encenderla en sus parroquias durante todo el año de este aniversario.

Estamos trabajando para combinar el coro con miembros que vienen de la diócesis de Alexandria a encender su vela en sus parroquias durante este año de aniversario. Queremos tener un coro combinado con miembros de Alexandria y de Shreveport.

Será durante esta Misa que también reconoceremos el aniversario de ordenación de nuestros sacerdotes y diáconos. ¡Sera un gran evento! El Obispo Ronald Herzog de la Diócesis de Alexandria participará en esta Misa especial.

Durante esta Misa anunciaré oficialmente la convocación diocesana, Misa y un día de celebración en el Centro de Convenciones de Shreveport para el 11 de Junio del 2011 en celebración del 25 nuevamente retomar nuestras aniversario del establecimiento de actividades cotidianas en Agosto. Es la Diócesis de Shreveport. Es mi precisamente durante este tiempo esperanza que este será un día de que me gusta tomar mis vacaciones y talleres, oración y celebración por la tomar tiempo para hacer mi lectura y ocasión de esta etapa emocionante el trabajo de oficina. en nuestra historia. Planearemos Antes de comenzar este tiempo eventos para toda la familia. Marquen más relajado, les informo del evento este día en su calendario desde ahora que realizaremos este mes con dos y conforme se vayan desarrollando iniciativas que comienzan este verano. los planes les informaremos una vez El 22 de Junio, los invito a todos que salgamos de los días venideros a participar en Misa en la Catedral calientes del verano. ada quien entiende su tiempo de diferente manera. Aunque el año comienza el primero de Enero y termina el 31 de Diciembre, en realidad otros eventos forman nuestra experiencia del tiempo. Para muchos el ciclo escolar es como dividen el tiempo. Para otros el año fiscal que termina el 30 de junio es más importante. Para los que están involucrados en la vida parroquial, el final de Mayo marca el comienzo de un tiempo más calmado, es tiempo ordinario en la vida de la iglesia.

Se llevan a cabo Confirmaciones, Primeras Comuniones, Primeras Reconciliaciones, programas escolares y graduaciones. Lo que sigue en Junio es un itinerario más lento que nos permite respirar un poco y prepararnos para

45 Catholic Connection June 2010

Finalmente, durante el tiempo tranquilo del verano trabajaremos en reunir y establecer las últimas piezas de la oficina de Caridades Católicas para la diócesis. Este proyecto tomará algún tiempo, pero me imagino que al adentrarnos más en el otoño, la oficina estará bien establecida para alcanzar maneras concretas de servir a los más necesitados de nuestra diócesis. Si sienten el deseo de saber más sobre esta nueva institución o de ayudar financieramente a establecer la Oficina de Caridades Católicas, contáctenme a mi personalmente o a la hermana Pat Cairns, C.S.J. al Centro Católico al 318-219-7251.

Aunque el verano, al igual que otros momentos de quietud en nuestras vidas, parece no tener muchas actividades, puede ser un momento maravilloso y productivo de espiritualidad. En tiempos de cambio, mientras que dejamos algo atrás encontramos nueva dirección, estamos en un tiempo en el que Dios puede de verdad trabajar en nosotros porque estamos verdaderamente atentos. No tenemos respuestas y estamos dispuestos a considerar diferentes opciones, recobrar buenos sueños que habíamos dejado a un lado o encontrar y aceptar un nuevo propósito en la vida. Si tenemos paciencia encontraremos una respuesta de Dios que nos sorprenderá y restaurará nuestra esperanza en el futuro.

Le ruego al Señor que las reuniones e iniciativas que menciono arriba nos permitirán primero, el 22 de junio, celebrar el pasado que por 24 años hemos vivido como diócesis y nuestras raíces en la historia de la Iglesia de Luisiana; después enriquecer la Iglesia del presente con una Oficina de Caridades Católicas que se convertirá en un apoyo tremendo para los pobres; y por último el 11 de Junio del 2011 dirigiremos nuestra mirada hacia el futuro y hacia los próximos 25 años.

Bishop

Bishop’s Reflection

John Berchmans to mark the 24th anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of Shreveport and the 100 by Year Anniversary of the establishment Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria, our Mother Diocese. I am inviting each Michael G. parish to send one or two parishioners Duca to this Mass so each parish can be presented with a commemorative candle from the Diocese of Alexandria e all mark our time in different to light in their parishes throughout ways. Even though the year this anniversary year. We are working begins on the first of January to have a combined choir with and ends on December 31, in reality members coming from the Dioceses other events shape our experience of of Alexandria and Shreveport. At time. For many the beginning and end this Mass we will also recognize the of school is a more important division. ordination anniversaries of our priests For others the fiscal year ending June and deacons. It should be a great 30th is more important. For those event. Bishop Ronald Herzog from the involved in parish life, the end of May Diocese of Alexandria will participate marks the beginning of a quieter, in this special Mass. ordinary time in Church life. All the At this Mass I will officially Confirmations, First Communions, announce a diocesan-wide First Reconciliations, school plays Convocation, Mass and day of and graduations are coming to an celebration at the Shreveport end. What follows in June is a slower Convention Center on June 11, 2011 schedule that allows us to catch our to celebrate the 25th Anniversary breath a bit and prepare for the wake of the Diocese of Shreveport. It is up time in August. It is during this time my hope that this will be a day of that I look forward to my vacation and workshops, prayer and celebration time to catch up on my reading and on the occasion of this exciting desk work. milestone. We will plan events for Before I slip into this slower time, I the whole family. Mark this day on would like to call your attention to one your calendar now and more concrete event that will happen this month and plans will be sent out as we emerge two initiatives that will be taking shape from the hot days of summer. this summer.

Finally, during the quiet of summer On June 22, 2010, I invite you all we will be shaping and establishing to a Mass at our Cathedral of St. the last pieces of the Catholic

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Charities Office for the diocese. This will take some time, but I suspect as we move into the cool of the fall, the office will be well established and reaching out in concrete ways to serve the poor of our diocese. If you feel a desire to know more or to give some financial support to establish our new Catholic Charities Office, contact me or Sister Pat Cairns, C.S.J. at the Catholic Center 318-219-7251.

Even though summer, like other quiet, in-between times in our life, seems uneventful, it can be a wonderfully productive time spiritually. In times of transition, between what we left or lost and before we find a new direction, we are in a time when God can really work because we are truly listening. We have no answers and are willing to consider all kinds of different options, to recover old dreams long since laid aside or to find and accept a new purpose in life. If we are patient we will find an answer from God who will surprise us and restore our hope into the future.

I pray the gatherings and initiatives above will allow us to first, on June 22, celebrate our past 24 years as a diocese and our roots in the larger Church history of Louisiana; then to enrich the Church of the present with a Catholic Charities Office that will extend an ever widening outreach to the poor; and lastly on June 11, 2011 we will set our sights on the future and the next 25 years.

Solemn High Mass and Blessing of St. John Berchmans Church in January 1928.

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LITURGY LINES

Come, Let Us Worship

Vatican Confirms New Version of Missal

by Catholic News Service

by Dianne Rachal, Director, Office of Worship

The new English translation of the Roman Missal is seen in Rome April 29. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

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10. Conclusion he Mass is staying the same, but the words we hear and say at Mass are changing. This series of 10 articles has examined the changes for the people’s parts at Mass. The reason for the new translation is to have the English we say more accurately reflect the Latin text of the current Roman Missal published in 2002.

The new translation has more biblical references.

This will more closely align the words we say at Mass to the Scriptures we hear at Mass. We will recognize the source of our prayers in the Word of God. There is a more formal style to the new translation.

The sentences are longer and the vocabulary is broader. The new texts will express more clearly why we pray, why we hope, and how we present ourselves before God. Change is almost always challenging. Approach the new texts with an open mind and heart. After some usage, the new text should become as familiar as the current text, enabling us to pray with more purpose when we gather for Mass.

To review the upcoming changes we have addressed over the last nine Catholic Connections, please visit our website at: www.dioshpt.org/worship/worship.html There you will find all the Introductory articles on the New Translation of the Roman Missal including: 1. Introduction 2. Reasons for the New Translation 3. Changes to the Introductory Rites 4. Changes to the Gloria 5. Changes to the Nicene Creed 6. Changes to the Apostles’ Creed 7. Changes to the Liturgy of the Eucharist 8. Changes to the Mystery of Faith (formerly the Memorial Acclamations).

9. Changes to the Communion Rite.

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ASHINGTON (CNS) -- The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops announced April 30 that the Vatican has given its “recognitio,” or confirmation, of the new English translation of the Roman Missal, but said the exact date for its implementation in U.S. parishes remains to be determined.

The approval came in a letter dated March 25 from Cardinal Antonio Canizares Llovera, prefect for the Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments, although the missal is still undergoing final editing by Vatican officials, the USCCB announcement said.

The Vatican also approved a series of adaptations and proper texts for use in the United States.

Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, USCCB president, received the decrees personally while he was in Rome for meetings of the Vox Clara Committee, an international group of bishops who advise the divine worship congregation about English liturgical translations.

Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli of Paterson, N.J., chairman of the USCCB Committee on Divine Worship, expressed gratitude for the approval. “I am happy that after years of study and review, the Congregation for Divine Worship has concluded its work and provided us with a text that will enable the ongoing renewal of the celebration of the sacred liturgy in our parishes,” he said.

In the coming weeks, Bishop Serratelli’s committee will give Cardinal George its recommendation on when to implement the new translation in U.S. parishes. The cardinal will then announce the date to the bishops, along with an implementation timeline and process.

A parish implementation guide has been in development at the USCCB and will be distributed to parishes throughout the country when the timeline has been set. In addition, priests and diocesan worship officials have been participating in a series of workshops to help prepare for the changes.

Msgr. Anthony Sherman, director of the USCCB Secretariat for Divine Worship, said “a great effort” to produce the new missal is under way now “among the publishers of liturgical books, along with the other necessary resources by publishers of liturgical music and catechetical resources.”

“Even as that work is under way, a full-scale implementation of catechesis for the new missal should be taking place in the parishes, so that when the time comes, everyone will be ready,” he added.

COLLECTIONs

Peter’s Pence

by Fr. David Richter, Vicar General Announcement Dates: June 13 & 20 Collection Dates: June 26 & 27

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e remember Pope Benedict XVI’s historic journey to the United States in April 2008. The Holy Father made an appeal to Catholics during his homily at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York: “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 is taken up around the world.

Catholics in the United States have been especially generous in meeting the requests for aid to those suffering from oppression, disease, war or national disaster. Please answer once more in favor of those in need.

How well did the diocese do?

Catholic Relief Ser vices for Haiti $83,117.84 Diocese of Shreveport Catholic Schools

$24,610.81

hot in fact that wearing shorts was discouraged.

I never did catch a ball, and there were plenty of them whizzing by our

by Sister Patricia Cairns, CSJ heads, but I do remember Uncle Mac catching one bare handed. Proudly, he gave it to my oldest brother, Jack. “The next one I catch will be Pat’s,” promised Uncle Mac. Although there wasn’t a “next one,” I was never disappointed because I knew that if luck came our way again, Uncle Mac would be true to his word, and his word was more than enough to make every subsequent hen I was a youngster, I use game exciting for me. to attend the Albany Senators’ We sat on the bleachers where the baseball games. The Senators “real people sit,” as Uncle Mac would were a minor league team affiliated say. The poor sat with us, and Uncle with the Pittsburgh Pirates. My Uncle Mac realized this and often reached Mac bought our tickets, and my into his pocket for any spare change he brothers and sister, Peg, would attend. had to help someone out, even if it were “Take your gloves with you,” Uncle simply to buy a hot dog for a kid who Mac would say. “Never know when couldn’t afford one at 35 cents. luck will shine on you and you’ll catch Jesus has given us His word, and we a foul ball.” can bank on it. He told us that if we care We always sat along the third base about the poor, and are good to them, line. “It’s the best place to catch fouls,” heaven will be ours. He told us to feed exclaimed Uncle Mac. He failed to the hungry, clothe the naked, welcome mention that the seats were also the the stranger, comfort the sick and cheapest in Hawkins Stadium and very dying, and go the extra mile for others. hot on sweltering summer days. So He told us that love is all about giving.

CHARITIES

As Matters Stand

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Uncle Mac understood this.

Giving is so much a part of Catholic tradition. One of the diocesan-wide services to be provided by the new Catholic Charities of the diocese is “tangible assistance.” Tangible assistance is offering aid to those who seek help to meet basic needs, i.e., food, clothing, shelter, utility and rental assistance, etc.

Scripture tells us that the poor would always be with us, but they need not be the same poor. An organization like Catholic Charities tries to lift people out of poverty, while helping them through temporary adverse situations.

Catholic Charities will collaborate with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and other groups to make sure no one in the diocese goes hungry or is without adequate shelter, and that other basic needs are met.

Every Catholic will be called on to assist, and people of other faiths as well.

What a wonderful opportunity for all of us! The most vulnerable in our diocese will have a vibrant new resource available to help make life a bit easier for them. And in helping others, great blessings will be ours. We have God’s word on that.

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Priest Spotlight:

Fr. Philip Theempalangattu

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here is nothing extraordinary in my vocation. I was very fortunate in being born to a Catholic family who were very religious. We still maintain the good tradition of praying together both in the morning and evening at home. I remember well the way I was taught prayers by my grandfather. He was very strict and from my early childhood onward, I had to sit up with him for long hours of prayer. He initiated me into a religious and prayerful life. He used to take me to church daily, walking almost three miles per day. I had an inclination to become a priest from my early childhood. Maybe I saw the priest everyday and wanted to be like him.

When I completed my schooling, I realized my vocation was to be a priest.

As I went on in my training, it became more and more clear to me. I had ups and downs in my life of formation, but I realized God has a definite plan for me and there are many instances where I felt the special providence of God. These instances reassured my vocation to priesthood.

I was born in 1952 in a village in Kerala in the southernmost state of India. After the initiation to education at home by the help of a teacher, I joined the primary school in our village at the age of four. I graduated from the school in 1967 and immediately I joined the minor seminary to become a priest. After completing four years there I was sent to Papal Seminary.

After completing my Baccalaureate in Philosophy I joined the University of Poona and took my Masters Degree in Sociology in 1975. I completed my Theology course in 1980 and was ordained a priest in the same year.

I started my pastoral ministry in the Diocese of Kanjirapally as an Associate Pastor and after two years I was appointed the Joint Director of

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Social Work in the diocese. This was also my choice as I had a special interest to work for the development of the poor and the marginalized people, which I consider one of the major missions of Christians. In 1986 I went to Canada to do postgraduate diploma course in Social Development at the Coady International Institute. After returning home in 1987, I continued social work in the diocese until 1997.

Then I was appointed Financial Officer of the diocese and I continued in this office until 2000. I was transferred to a parish as pastor and I worked in this parish until I came to the United States in 2002. Since then I have been at St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe as a priest chaplain.

My life as a priest has always been exciting and fulfilling. When I look back at my priestly ministry, I feel the most rewarding time was my early ministry–working in the field of social work and working for the development of the poor and marginalized people, especially poor farmers with small landholdings.

It was also very rewarding to work for the orphaned children and physically and mentally challenged children. It was very challenging to organize the women who were otherwise confined to their homes, through self-help groups, to find employment.

One of the major achievements of the social work department was starting the Milk Producing Cooperative Societies and starting the Milk Processing Plant. Within a period of one year, over 10,000 families were made members of the Cooperative Societies. They started cattle rearing and collected over 100,000 liters of

milk every day and distributed it. This project gave direct employment to over 800 people. It was very fulfilling and satisfying to see that I could be a part of these activities which made a real difference in the lives of thousands of people within our diocese and outside.

There are a number of people who were role models for me and very inspiring in my journey to priesthood.

It was my grandfather who initiated me into prayer and religious life. My father and my mother were always helpful and encouraged me to be a good priest. It was because of their prayer that I am who I am today.

The pastor in my parish in my early days had great influence on my vocation and my life as priest. He was a very socially concerned man. It was he who brought some development in our small village. He was instrumental in starting an upper primary school, a hospital and constructing roads and bridges. He had a special talent for bringing all people together beyond caste and religion. He had a great influence in my life.

With regard to my hobbies or activities in my free time, I spend a lot of time cooking. I also enjoy reading, especially books on religion, society and culture. I also spend some time watching sports. My favorite games are cricket, basketball, soccer and tennis.

National Right to Life Announces Local Pro-Life Oratory Contest Winners

by Susan Flanagan, State Director of the Oratory Contest

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he National Right to Life has announced the winners of its local Pro-Life Oratory Contest.

The competition was held on Tuesday, April 13 at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. Area high school juniors and seniors gave presentations on the tragedy of abortion, euthanasia, infanticide or fetal stem cell research.

Katie Vanchiere, a junior at Loyola College Prep, won first place honors for her speech. Katie mourned for the members of her generation who have been aborted, speculating that those lost could have been her friends or a future spouse. Those aborted babies could have changed the world, if only given a chance. Katie was awarded $150 for her presentation.

Amber Mattingly, a senior at Glenbrook High School in Minden, won second place for her presentation against euthanasia. Amber pointed out the irony of an Oregon “health plan” that wouldn’t cover certain medical treatments for the patients, yet did provide for euthanasia. She criticized Dr. Jack Kevorkian, the infamous “Dr. Death,” who killed some patients who weren’t even terminally ill. Amber received $100 for her remarks.

Chaz Coleman, a senior at Evangel Christian Academy, won third place in the oratory contest. Chaz stated that abortion takes more lives each year than cancer, AIDS, car wrecks and suicide combined. “Nothing good is built on such destruction,” he reflected. Chaz received $50 for his presentation.

Other winners of $25 awards were Melvin Deaile, Joy Foster, Connor Fuhrmann, all from Evangel Christian Academy; Danzeria Farris of Loyola College Prep; and Rebecca Gorham from Caddo Magnet High School.

The first place winner, Katie Vanchiere, advanced to the Louisiana state finals in Lafayette on Saturday, May 1 at the Louisiana Knights of Columbus Convention. There Katie competed on a state level and won second place.

She presented her speech again at the Knights of Columbus banquet Saturday night to a crowd of over 800 and got a standing ovation!

State Director of the Oratory Contest, Susan Flanagan of Shreveport, commended the students for speaking out in defense of life. “These students are so inspiring to me” she said. “Their

courageous stand for protection of life at all stages is awesome!” Local judges, also very complimentary of the outstanding student speakers, were Steve and LaBetha Casey, Janice Gonzalez, Debbie Bright Horton, Emily Nickelson and Debbie Simmons.

For more information about the ProLife Oratory Contest, now in its 22nd year in the Shreveport-Bossier area, please contact Susan Flanagan at 944 Unadilla Street, Shreveport, LA 71106 or call 318-861-6879.

premier science competitions in the nation. Six thousand teams in 49 states compete in 23 standards-based challenges, ranging from engineering, life, earth and physical science events.

Sixty middle school teams from the 49 states and 60 high school teams qualify to compete at the national level.

Winners included: Rachel Bank, Kim Le, Andy Nguyen, Alex Bozeman, Tori Brooks, Julia Vanchiere, Tori Brooks, John Fenton, Chris Fenton, Victoria Nguyen, Reagan Henderson, Nathan Cowart, Joseph Ligon, Morgan Murray, Sophia Simon and Drew Fenton.

Katie Vanchiere, a Junior at Loyola College Prep won the Shreveport Pro-Life Oratory Contest and placed second at the state level. Pictured: Katie arrives in Washington D.C. to attend the National March for Life.

St. John Berchmans School Science Olympiad Team Wins State Title

by Katie Sciba

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n Saturday, April 17, the St. John Berchmans Science Olympiad team competed for the state title in Hammond, LA. They won first place overall, and medaled in 20 of 23 events, which included 12 first place medals. The team traveled to Champaign, IL on May 19-22 to compete at the national level. St. John’s has won the state competition two years in a row and is the only school in North Louisiana to ever win the state competition.

Science Olympiad is one of the

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SCHOOLS

Louisiana Schools’ Donation Brings New Life to Maple Mount

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he generosity of the schools that make up the Diocese of Shreveport Catholic School System is bringing a touch more spring to Maple Mount this year.

Pictures from the devastating ice storm on January 27, 2009 that resulted in the damage of many trees at Maple Mount had quite an affect on the students, teachers and principals in Shreveport and Monroe, where Ursuline Sister Carol Shively is superintendent. The principals asked Sister Carol what they could do to help.

Six of the schools, pre-K through high school, decided for their Lenten project to raise money to replant trees at Maple Mount, or to help with clean up.

“The parents and kids got excited, they felt they were making a

difference,” Sister Carol said at the time. “There’s a great presence of the Spirit here.”

The schools raised $3,301, which was donated to the Ursuline Sisters in April 2009. Because tree planting has the most success at Maple Mount in either the fall or early spring, the trees were purchased in April 2010, and planted around the campus.

There were five types of trees planted – pink and white dogwoods, eastern redbuds, white pines and maple red sunsets. Some were planted near the cemetery, others near the Motherhouse Chapel, and one by the Conference and Retreat Center.

Each of six trees honors a different school, and a seventh honors Sister Pat Rhoten, at the request of St. John

Berchmans School, where she taught from 2005-2009. Sister Pat was excited and emotional to visit the maple red sunset outside Saint Joseph Villa that honors her service.

“I can come out here and nurture it,” she said.

The schools in the Shreveport system feel a special kinship with the Ursuline Sisters, following their outpouring of support following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Here’s what each of the schools raised: • St. Joseph School, $1,460 • St. John Berchmans School, $500 • Loyola College Prep, $500 • St. Frederick High School, $341 • Jesus the Good Shepherd, $300 •Our Lady of Fatima School, $200

USCCB’s Response to Sexual Abuse

W

hat has the Catholic Church done to effectively respond to sexual abuse by church personnel?

The Catholic Church has done more to protect children than almost any other organization in the United States. Consider: • Safe Environment training is taking place in 193 dioceses/eparchies of the country. Over 2 million adults have been trained to recognize the behavior of offenders and what to do about it.

• Over 5 million children have been equipped with the skills to help them protect themselves from abuse.

• Background checks are conducted on Church personnel. Over 2 million volunteers and employees; 52,000 clerics; 6,205 candidates for

10 11 Catholic Connection June 2010

ordination have had their backgrounds evaluated.

• All dioceses/eparchies have Codes of Conduct spelling out what is acceptable behavior. This serves to let people know what can and cannot be done as well as letting others know what behavior can be expected. It encourages the reporting of suspicious behavior.

• All dioceses/eparchies have Victim Assistance Coordinators, assuring victims that they will be heard. In 2009, $6,536,109 was spent on therapy for the victims of clergy sexual abuse.

• All dioceses/eparchies have Safe Environment Coordinators who assure the ongoing compliance to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

• Bishops are meeting with victims.

• Dioceses/eparchies have Healing Masses, retreats for victim/survivors and other reconciliation events.

• There is a Zero Tolerance policy on abusers since 2002. If a credible accusation is made against a cleric, they are permanently removed from ministry regardless of how long ago the offense occurred.

• Dioceses/eparchies require intensive background screening as well as psychological testing for those wishing to enter the seminary.

The Catholic Church has worked hard to protect children. Much has been done, but more needs to be done. Until child sexual abuse is no longer a part of society, the Church will continue its efforts to stop it.

SCHOOLS

Jesus the Good Shepherd School Celebrates World Culture on May Day

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esus the Good Shepherd School held a May Day Celebration with the theme “Music Makes the World Go Round” which depicted cultures from around the world through music and dance. Each class was assigned a different country and prepared for May Day by learning about life in that particular area of the world. For the event, the classes dressed in costumes from their countries and did a short dance.

St. Federick High School Tennis Team Excels

S

t. Frederick recently won the boys Division V-Class 1A-B-C state tennis championship, and finished as runners up in the girls bracket on Tuesday, May 4th at ULM. Doubles team, Jason Simon and Nathan Ryan, pulled the Warriors past a tie with Metairie Park to claim the second straight boys’ doubles championship while Elaine Simon repeated as the girls’ singles champion. Pictured Senior Jason Simon.

St. Joseph School Inducts Students Into NJHS

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t. Joseph School recently inducted 10 students into the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) for the 2010-11 school year. In order to be eligible for membership in the NJHS, the students must have had 3.75 cumulative GPA in his or her core subjects and were also evaluated on the basis of leadership, service, citizenship and character. The St. Joseph School NJHS members for next year are: Cole Allen, Madeline Bodden, Taylor Fanning, Noah Gleason, Anna Hutlas, Kolby Knight, Connor Loper, Cosette Loper, Andrew Lukacs and Nathan Thrash.

Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy Wishes You a Happy Summer

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he faculty, staff and students of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy would like to wish everyone a blessed and happy summer! This year has been a tremendous success thanks to the efforts of everyone in our OLBSA family. Thank you for your hard work and we look forward to seeing you and our new families in August. Remember to keep up with our school over the summer at www.olbsa.org

Our Lady of Fatima Hosted Annual Fais-Do-Do

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ur Lady of Fatima recently held their annual Fatima Family Fais-Do-Do school carnival on Sunday, April 18th. Everyone had a wonderful time playing various games, climbing the rock wall, checking out the animals from the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, eating delicious crawfish, playing bingo or bidding on fabulous items in the silent auction. The event was a huge success and everyone is already looking forward to next year’s festivities!

11 10

Vacation

Bible

School

by Kelly Phelan his summer, hundreds of school-aged children across the Diocese of Shreveport will take part in a beloved summertime tradition: Vacation Bible School. The list of planned activities differs from parish to parish, but they almost always include crafts, songs, skits and games in addition to age-appropriate Bible study. Usually, the weeklong, day-camp-type setup revolves around a central theme that’s connected to a Bible story or verse. No matter what, kids around the diocese can’t wait for the opportunity to learn about their faith in an atmosphere that’s decidedly more relaxed than the Parish School of Religion (PSR) classes that they attend during the year. Thomas Dean, age 10, said, “We learn about praying and being nice to other people.” His brother Elliot, age 8, said, “We get to make lots of new friends.”

In the past, Vacation Bible School was mainly a Protestant activity, but more recently Catholic churches realized the value of using part of children’s summer vacation to further their religious education in a fun environment. Thus, Catholic Vacation Bible School programs are more readily available than they were in the past. Many parents and other adults around the Diocese have fond memories of Vacation Bible Schools from their childhoods, so finding volunteers is rarely a problem. “We have people who call us year after year,” said Kim Long, Director of Religious Education at St. Mary of the Pines in Shreveport. “Volunteering for Vacation Bible School has become part of their summer traditions.”

When St. Mary of the Pines decided to institute their Vacation Bible School program, Long found that there were few Catholic Vacation Bible School programs available, and they were very expensive. So she and Marcie Rankins, Director of Spiritual Formation at St. Jude Catholic Church in Bossier City, got together and wrote their own, piecing together elements that they liked from other Vacation Bible School curricula. Since they also wanted to keep the cost to parents very low, they researched and made up crafts and activities using

"...Catholic churches realized the value of using part of children’s summer vacation to further their religious education in a fun environment."

12 13 Catholic Connection June 2010

items that were either very inexpensive or readily available in almost every home. For instance, last year, the children made models of Paul’s shipwreck using crushed Styrofoam egg cartons. “Marcy and I worked together for several years, writing programs and putting things together to meet our needs,” Long said. “Sometimes we order a program and then tailor it to our needs.”

“This is the time of year when we have fun. It’s not as regimented as religious school during the rest of the year,” said Long. This year’s theme for Vacation Bible School at St. Mary of the Pines is “Mary Said Yes.” “It’s about how Mary said yes to God and how we say yes to God,” she explained. One of their past themes was “Calling All Heroes,” which they based on the Philippians 4:13 verse, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Other themes from around the Diocese include “Baobab Blast: God’s Great Get-Together,” “Set Sail With Saint Patrick and the Holy Trinity” and “High Seas Expedition.” Often, these themes are extensions of the lessons the children learn in their PSR classes during the school year.

All the children work on the same activities and lessons, but the teachers tailor the activities for each age group.

In their parish, the teachers remain at their assigned “stations” while the children rotate from room to room.

Some of the past favorite activities have been crafting sock puppets and making t-shirts.

While many of the children are too young for deep theological discussion or intense Bible study, the teachers nevertheless emphasize basic messages about God’s love and Jesus’s sacrifice for mankind. “We usually have about 50 kids under the age of 12,” said Long. “Once they get older than that, they usually want to help teach the little ones.” At St. Mary of the Pines, the cost to parents is only $10 per child, though they never turn a child away because of his or her inability to pay. “The money just pays for their snacks and a few supplies,” she said.

Traditionally, Vacation Bible School classes took place in the morning (usually from 8:00 a.m. to noon or so), but some parishes in the diocese are holding their Vacation Bible School classes in the evening, either from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to better accommodate working parents. “We’ll feed them dinner, usually sandwiches or hotdogs,” said Long. Also, most Vacation Bible Schools will do anything necessary to adjust for special needs like food allergies.

In an encouragingly ecumenical trend, cities and towns where individual churches don’t have enough children to have their own Vacation Bible Schools are banding together for community-wide Vacation Bible Schools. In Long’s hometown, for instance, the Catholic, Methodist, Baptist and Assembly of God churches have banded together to teach their children about God and Jesus.

“There’s no doctrine being taught,” she said, “but the kids can still learn about God together. They learn that Jesus loves them and how Christ wants us to treat one another.”

If you’re interested in finding out about Vacation Bible School opportunities for your children, call your parish office to inquire about dates, times and costs. •

Catholic Va c a t i o n B i b l e S c h o o l s In the D i o c e s e o f S h r eve p o r t June 7-11: Mary, Queen of Peace Church, Bossier City,"SonQuest: Rainforest" Jackie Simon 318-752-5971

July 6-9: St. Joseph Church, Shreveport, "Ship Ahoy!" Julia Norton 318-865-5125

June 14-17: St. Mary of the Pines, Shreveport, "Mary Said Yes," Kim Long 318-687-5121

July 12-15: St. Pius X Church, Shreveport, "Hero Headquarters" Susan Lanier 318-222-2165

June 14-18: St. Matthew Church, Monroe, "Set Sail With Saint Patrick and The Holy Trinity" Lindy Brasher 318-557-8649

July 11-16: Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, "Totus Tuus" Megan Stratton 318-221-5296.

June 21-25: St. Jude Church, Bossier City, "Ancient Egypt" Marcie Rankins 318-746-2508

July 12-16: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport "Baobab Blast: God's Great Get Together!"

Cathy Cobb: 318-798-1887

June 21-25: Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe, "High Seas Expedition" Heather Vidrine 318-267-0382 June 21-25: St. Paschal Church, West Monroe, "Baobab Blast: God's Great Get Together!"

318-323-1631

July 12-23: St. Ann Church, Stonewall, "SonQuest: Rainforest" Jo Ann Beason, 318-872-1158.

13 12

SAINTS

Planting Seeds All Year Long: Saints for Vacation Bible School

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

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was talking to a mentor years ago about Vacation Bible School. I was very stressed, never having put one together on my own. She told me to relax and reminded me that we do four things in VBS: tell them a story, teach them a song, give them a snack and help them make a craft. It’s like a lot of other great ideas, simple but not always easy!

So I examined these four areas.

Storytellers: Well that could be every single saint, since what we are doing is witnessing our faith, even if it’s just one evening or morning during VBS week; even if it’s just one story that doesn’t particularly resonate with where we are on our faith journey. The fact that we are present and willing is a huge testament. I imagine stories will eventually be told to the next generation one of two ways, a parent will remember you to their child as the volunteer who told us the story of Noah at Bible School, or that same parent, at some point, will pay it forward by “showing up” to their relationship with God as a volunteer.

Songs: No surprise here, St. Cecilia is the patron saint of music. And in each of our families, lives, parishes there is that one music person we love to hear sing or who we are relieved to see approaching the cantor stand because they are easy to sing with!

I admire these musical wonders as I have very little musical ability. I am always happy when the music person volunteers year after year for this part of VBS. Thank you St. Cecilia.

Snacks: Let’s give a little thank you to St. Martha, patron of among other things, cooks. In the weeks preceding our VBS kickoff the juice boxes, bags of chips and cookies seem to multiply in almost biblical proportions near the secretary’s desk. To every mother, father, set of grand or godparents I say thank you!

Crafts: St. Tutilo of St. Gall was

14 15 Catholic Connection June 2010

Sister Suny Receives Top Nurses’ Honor at Christus Schumpert

by Dana Smeiser, Christus Schumpert Health System

Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of music.

born in Ireland in 850. He was in many ways the total package. He was an excellent student, poet, speaker, hymnist, architect, painter, sculptor, metal worker, mechanic, composer and musician! He was known as a renaissance man before the term was coined. A crafts person must have many of these qualities.When the room is filled with at least a dozen five and six-year-old students and glue, sequins, feathers, craft foam and crushed eggshells there needs to be an “all purpose” go-to saint and if ever there was one St. Tutilo is our man. So for all the frantic prayers of the craft teacher we have a winner.

While all this may sound a little lighthearted, please do not misunderstand.

I depend on the communion of saints every day. I just try not to take myself too seriously with Vacation Bible School. This time of our catechetical year is when my fellow directors and I are able to get on the floor with the children and sing along, or color a page with them, or assist with hand movements to “Michael Row the Boat Ashore,” drink juice boxes and no one thinks it’s odd and have some FUN! Hope your summer days are filled with love and laughter!

Sister Suny Augustine is presented with her RN of the Year Award at Christus Schumpert Highland.

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ister Suny Augustine was recognized as Christus Schumpert Highland Hospital’s Registered Nurse of the Year. To obtain such an honor, nurses must have a minimun of one year of service with Christus; demonstrate qualities in leadership, excellence, stewardship; model job expectations in daily duties and responsibilites; and others must look to this person for direction, motivation, team work promotion, problem-solving and inspiration.

Voting took place April 1 - 19 and was open to all Christus Schumpert workers, including physicians.

Other Christus Hospital winners included Tamika Davis, Highland OBST of the Year; Judy Furches, Highland LPN of the Year; Carrie Youngblood, St. Mary LPN of the Year; Sharon Wallace, St. Mary RN of the Year; and Sholanda Ansley, St. Mary PCT of the Year.

Church Seeks to Help Louisiana Fishing Community Face Latest Challenge

by Peter J. Finney Jr., Clarion Herald, New Orleans

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EW ORLEANS (CNS) -- Inside St. Bernard Church May 2, parishioners whose lives depend on the fishing industry and who endured and overcame the battering of Hurricane Katrina five years ago had a difficult time focusing on Father John Arnone’s homily.

Their minds shifted to the video of South Louisiana crude oil spewing from a ruptured British Petroleum pipeline a mile deep in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Gospel account from John was about the necessity of Christians proving their love of God by loving their neighbor. Or, as Father Arnone told his congregation, “by putting words into action” and gathering together in times of peril and challenge.

In the pews, several women sobbed.

“The spill has really affected them,” Father Arnone said. “We spoke about the oil leak and about how we had been through Katrina, and we said we could face this challenge as well. We have to love one another by putting our words into action.”

In the hours before Hurricane Katrina made landfall, the images of an advancing monster storm gave people the opportunity to prepare and evacuate, but it also heightened their anxiety. In the same way, the images of the BP disaster and the monster oil spill have triggered unwanted flashbacks for people whose Katrina scar tissue remains raw.

“It just staggers me,” said Tony Fernandez, the former chief criminal deputy sheriff of the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office and chairman of the pastoral council of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church in Chalmette.

“Today we are crying out, ‘Why us,

Father John Arnone, pastor of St. Bernard Church, leads a group of fishermen in prayer May 1 at the Breton Sound Marina in Hopedale, La. The marina has been used as a staging area for workers trying to set up protective booms in the advance of a massive oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico. (CNS photo/Tom Costanza, Clarion Herald)

Lord?’”

Fernandez was born in Shell Beach -- the place where the eye of Katrina made landfall in Louisiana in August 2005 -- and he helped in rescue operations after the storm. On May 2 he joined OLPS parishioners who prayed with parishioners of St. David Church at a Katrina memorial, located just a few blocks from the breach in the Industrial Canal that destroyed the Lower Ninth Ward. About a dozen people also participated in a prayer service held by Father Arnone at Breton Sound Marina.

Fernandez, who operates the marina and figures to be heavily impacted by the oil spill, said the church must help hard-working people who cannot protect themselves.

“It’s a case of ‘here we go again,’” Fernandez said. “It’s been one catastrophic event after another.

But our focus is not so much on our sorrow, but it’s on what we can do for others. I’ll take a hit on this, but not nearly as much as those who are calling me. It’s like the widow’s mite.

I may lose more, but the little some other people will lose will be so much greater in their lives. My heart goes out to them.”

That’s where Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans comes in. The oil spill has the potential

of severely impacting 300 fishing families in St. Bernard Parish and another 1,000 in Plaquemines. In Louisiana, civil jurisdictions similar to counties are called parishes.

“Besides the environmental impact is the immediate impact on the lives of the fishing families that are not going to be able to have their livelihood, even in the short term,” said Gordon Wadge, co-president and chief executive of Catholic Charities, who accompanied Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans on a tour of both coastal parishes May 2.

“We are going to be making case management and counseling available,” Wadge said. “You also can’t underestimate the value of pastoral presence.”

Father Arnone knows that while the oil decides ultimately where it will land, the unhealed hurts of Katrina will be exposed for so many weary people.

“Right now, people are comparing it to Katrina because we know something big is out there and it’s coming and it’s out of our control to stop,” Father Arnone said. “Naturally, the anticipation and the level of anxiety continue to grow until we know the extent of the tragedy. We need to do something now. We can’t wait a week. These people need something now.”

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EVENT

Celebration of the 24th Anniversary of the Diocese of Shreveport

by Dianne Rachal, Director of Worship

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he Diocese of Shreveport will celebrate its 24th Anniversary at a special Mass on Tuesday, June 22, at 5:30 pm at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans.

Bishop Michael G. Duca will recognize the priests and deacon in our diocese who are celebrating a special anniversary of their ordination to the priesthood or diaconate: Rev. Adrian Fischer, OFM 35 years Rev. Al Jost, OFM 30 years Rev. Philip Theempalangattu 30 years Rev. Richard Norsworthy 25 years Rev. Peter Mangum 20 years Rev. Charles Glorioso 15 years Rev. James McLelland 10 years Deacon Ron Morris 10 years This year’s celebration coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Diocese of Alexandria’s moving the See from Natchitoches to Alexandria. The geographical area of the Diocese of Shreveport was part of the Diocese of Alexandria until the establishment of our diocese in 1986. Bishop Ronald G. Herzog, Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria, will present memorial candles to representatives from each parish in our diocese at the special Mass on June 22.

Everyone is invited to attend this special celebration of the Diocese of Shreveport, of the priests of our diocese, and of our sister Diocese of Alexandria. A reception will follow in the multi-room.

NA Forum on the Catechumenate to Present Workshop

by Dianne Rachal, Director, Office of Worship

Sr. Gael Gensler, osf

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Fr. Tim Fitzgerald

he Diocese of Shreveport is pleased to host a third R.C.I.A. institute from the North American Forum on the

16 17 Catholic Connection June 2010

Bishop Michael Duca Diocese of Shreveport

Bishop Ronald Herzog Rev. Adrian FIscher, ofm 35 Years Diocese of Alexandria

Rev. Al Jost, ofm 35 Years

Rev. Philip Theempalangattu 30 Years

Rev. Richard Norsworthy 25 Years

Rev. Peter Mangum 20 Years

Rev. Charles Glorioso 15 Years

Rev. James McLelland 10 Years

Catechumenate entitled “Echoing God’s Word” on June 25-26, 2010 at the Catholic Center.

According to their website (www.naforum.org), the North American Forum “has served as an international network of Catholic ministers and scholars dedicated to the full implementation in all parishes of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) and its implications for reconciliation.”

As part of that effort, the Forum works with dioceses across the United States to put on pastoral formation institutes and workshops on RCIA. Team leaders for this institute are Sr. Gael Gensler, OSF and Fr. Tim Fitzgerald. Sr. Gael has been involved in initiation ministry for 25 years, and is co-author of the Foundations in Faith series from RCL.

Fr. Tim has helped form initiation ministers for more than 20 years.

He is the author of Infant Baptism: a Parish Celebration and Confirmation: a Parish Celebration.

While focused on initiation catechesis, the insights and methodology of this institute can easily be applied to catechesis and to preaching in many other settings: adults, children, Catholic schools, Liturgy of the Word for Children, Small Faith Communities, faith sharing groups, and other pastoral settings.

Registration and brochures are online at the Forum’s website, www.naforum.org. For additional information about this workshop contact Dianne Rachal, Director of the Office of Worship at 318-8684441, or drachal@dioshpt.org.

Diocese Hosted Men’s Discernment Retreat

Greco Institute Sponsors Two Catholic Educational Programs

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by Ginger Broussard, Greco Institute

religious life, or perhaps remaining in the lay state as a faithful and active Catholic. They included talks on prayer and vocation stories narrated by the

by Fr. David T. Richter, priests present, as well as talks on Director of Vocations celibacy and other important subjects. he nine men present for the Confessions and spiritual direction Diocese of Shreveport Men’s were available any time the priests Discernment Retreat were were present for the retreatants. treated to the enlightening and Public prayer included Mass each inspiring conference talks of Father day; part of the Liturgy of the Hours Brett Brannen, Vice-Rector of Mount recited by priests, religious and some Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emittsburg, lay people daily; and Holy Hours Maryland. Mount St. Mary’s is one with Exposition and Benediction of of the oldest seminaries in the United the Blessed Sacrament. A Marian States and has been known for procession closed the first evening of producing fine priests for more than the retreat. two centuries.

There were opportunities for questions and answers about discernment, seminary and priesthood. Fr. Brannen’s recent book on discernment, To Save a Thousand Souls, was distributed.

Retreatants were urged by him to stay in close communication with the vocation director: “You cannot discern your vocation apart from the Father Brett Brannen, Vice-Rector of Mount Saint Mary's Church.”

Seminary, led the Men's Discernment Retreat at the Catholic On Saturday night, Center in Shreveport. if there were any retreatants not yet The retreat began with Mass sleepy at 10:30, there was an Italian celebrated by Bishop Michael Duca movie dubbed in English on the very at the Catholic Center Chapel in interesting life of St. John Bosco, the Shreveport. The bishop encouraged 19th century founder of the Salesian the men to make a good retreat. His order (S.D.B.) to care for the young homily earned a few chuckles as he set them at ease. He and other priests and the poor children of the industrial of the diocese assisted throughout the revolution. Four hours later, sleep came easy for those who braved the discernment weekend. late night.

Those in attendance ranged from Judging from the positive a senior in high school to a federal comments from the attendees, the employee in his late 30’s. Some were weekend achieved its aim – to give the in the first stages of discerning a young men solid information about vocation; others expressed the desire to enter seminary soon, should they be a priestly vocation. More prayer and reflection will take them further. formally accepted by the diocese.

Meals for the retreat were An atmosphere conducive to prayer, generously provided by the Knights personal reflection and the counsel of Columbus, men and women of available priests contributed to the success of the weekend. Talks were on active in the promotion of Church topics central to discernment: whether vocations, and the facilities staff at the Catholic Center. one is called to the priesthood,

Introduction

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to the

Bible

he Greco Institute and the School of Ministry of the University of Dallas are collaborating to offer a course at the Catholic Center in Shreveport.

The course is part of the four-year curriculum at the Catholic Biblical School.

On Saturday, June 5, an information session and a lecture introducing the Bible will be offered by University of Dallas instructor, Gene Giuliano, at the Catholic Center 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Learn what the Church teaches about the Bible; how the Bible was written; and what the Catholic approach is to biblical inspiration and interpretation.

Information about Year II of the Catholic Biblical School will be presented as well. New students are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information contact Greco Institute.

LIMEX Information Sessions Scheduled

P

lans are being made to begin another LIMEX program in the fall of this year. In four years, you could have a Masters Degree in theology! Certificates are available for those without an undergraduate degree.

Sessions will be Thursday, June 24 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church Burleigh Center, Shreveport at 6:30 p.m. and Tuesday, June 29 at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, check out the prospectus at the LIMEX website www. lim.loyno.edu/extension, or contact Fr. Pat Madden at pmadden@dioshpt.org.

17 16

Hispanic Corner

Nuestra Página por Rosalba Quiroz

Principios de Pastoral Juvenil ener un programa de Pastoral Juvenil (programas parroquiales para adolescentes, jóvenes y jóvenes adultos) en este país es un desafío grande pero uno que es muy necesario superar. Ser parte del crecimiento y desarrollo cristiano de nuestros jóvenes es un deber que la iglesia toma muy en serio y por lo cual nuestra diócesis está promoviendo el implemento de la Pastoral Juvenil en nuestras comunidades.

La Parroquia de Cristo Rey en Bossier City es la primera en establecer un programa de Pastoral Juvenil. Este grupo comenzó en agosto del 2009 y hasta hoy ha participado en eventos como retiros juveniles, establecimiento de coro, clases de formación de fe y reuniones semanales en su centro parroquial.

Es solo con el apoyo de gente como nuestro Obispo Michael Duca que nos exhorta a trabajar con los jóvenes, el trabajo incansable de gente como Marilu Rodríguez, coordinadora del grupo juvenil en Cristo Rey, Pablo y Andrea Ortega, promotores de la Pastoral Juvenil Diocesana y otros adultos comprometidos que se ganará la lucha contra los vicios, las malas compañías y otras tentaciones que asechan a nuestros jóvenes constantemente.

Mientras que los jóvenes son el futuro del mundo, el futuro de ellos mismos debe planearse ahora ya

T

Misas

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

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

Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115 Mansfield: St. Joseph 305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield 2do

que es el momento de escoger sus estudios y hasta su vocación. San Pablo nos dice: “Anima a los jóvenes a controlarse; muéstrate tú mismo como buen ejemplo de buenas obras en todo aspecto. Al enseñarles, hazlo con pureza, integridad y seriedad, hablando de una manera sana, que nadie pueda condenar” (Tito2, 6-8).

Este ministerio requiere energía, tiempo, paciencia y un fuerte compromiso entre otras virtudes.

Por eso, si usted se siente llamado a servir de esta manera… ¡ADELANTE! Comuníqueselo a su párroco, a su coordinador local o a la oficina del Ministerio Hispano. Es importante recibir apoyo y capacitación necesarios para acompañar a los jóvenes en esta etapa tan crucial de la vida y así poder ayudarlos a tomar decisiones responsables y cristianas que les alcanzarán la felicidad que Dios les quiere dar.

Calendario Diocesano del Mes de Junio 19-26 Pastoral de Liderazgo, Miami, FL. Recordatorio: La próxima clase de la Escuela de Ministerios es el 6 y 7 de Agosto con el tema Cristología. Estas clases están abiertas además de los que ya están tomando el curso, a todos los interesados en aprender más de nuestra Iglesia Católica. Para registrarse o para más información favor de llamarnos al 318-219-7265.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora 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

18 19 Catholic Connection June 2010

News Briefs by Catholic News Service

New Website Helps College Students Promote Catholic Social Teaching

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The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops launched a new website to help college students and campus ministers promote social teaching. You can visit the website at www.usccb.org/campus.

Pope, at Audience, Calls for Complete Nuclear Disarmament

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ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI asked world leaders to work calmly and seriously to control the spread of nuclear weapons “in the prospect of their complete elimination from the planet.” At the end of his weekly general audience May 5, the pope made his appeal to participants at the U.N. Review Conference of Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, being held in New York May 3-28. Designed to promote nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and an equitable development of peaceful nuclear energy, the treaty can succeed only if nations respect the commitments they made in signing it, the pope said. “Peace, in fact, rests on trust and on respect for the obligations assumed and not only on a balance of forces,” he said. “In that spirit, I encourage the initiatives aimed at progressive disarmament and the creation of zones free from nuclear arms in the prospect of their complete elimination from the planet.”

ASHINGTON (CNS) -- A dozen Catholic organizations, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, have introduced a website to help college students and campus ministers promote Catholic social teaching. Under the banner “Transforming Our World: Our Catholic Faith in Action,” the site includes podcasts, videos, prayer materials, small-group resources and basic information on the social doctrine of the church. The website can be found at www.usccb.org/campus. The site’s development coincides with the 10th anniversary of the U.S. bishops’ statement “Sharing Catholic Social Teaching.” It was developed in response to Pope Benedict XVI’s World Youth Day 2010 message in which he identified several challenges facing the world, such as respect for the environment, the just division of goods, solidarity with poor countries, promotion of dignity in labor, building a culture of life and promoting peace. Visitors to the site can submit resources and features for possible inclusion for others to use.

Pope Marks Fifth Anniversary, Joining Cardinals for Lunch

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ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI marked the fifth anniversary of his election with a formal luncheon with 46 cardinals in Rome, thanking God and the cardinals for their help in carrying out his ministry. “After five years, I can only say thank you, thank you especially to the Lord himself who guides me, but also to all of you,” he said at the end of the luncheon April 19 in the frescoed Sala Ducale of the Apostolic Palace. The Vatican did not publish the entire text of the pope’s remarks. The remarks were brief, off-the-cuff and “everyone has a right to some moments of privacy in life, even the pope,” Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, told Catholic News Service. Brief audio and video clips of the meal were distributed by the Vatican Television Center and included the pope’s thanks to the College of Cardinals and to all Vatican staff members, who help him fulfill “the Lord’s mandate to Peter to confirm the brothers in the faith, to proclaim his resurrection and to be witnesses of God’s love.”

Pope shakes hands with French Cardinal during luncheon marking the fifth anniversary of his pontificate. (CNS photo/L'Osservatore Romano/ Reuters)

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Around the Diocese...

St. Jude Church Celebrated First Communion

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First Communion was celebrated at St. Jude in Bossier City on Saturday, April 24 at the Anticipated Vigil Mass with an overflow crowd of worshipers.

Pastor Father Pike Thomas and Deacon Freeman Ligon beamed over the excited and holy flock of 30 new communicants following the Mass. Fr. Pike suggested they wear their finery every week for a while so we would all know their new status in the Church and be dazzled by their radiance. – Mike Wise

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Celebrates Annual Mass on the Grounds

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t. Elizabeth Ann Seton celebrated our annual Mass on the Grounds and Parish Picnic on Sunday, May 2. We began the morning with a May crowning with our pastor, Father Phil Michiels, and our First Communion class. The St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Children’s Choir provided the music for the Mass.

Lunch was provided by the Knights of Columbus. It was a beautiful day filled with a wonderful liturgy, fellowship and fun.

– Anna Provenza

20 21 Catholic Connection June 2010

Zwolle Youth Held Pancake Breakfast to Support Diocesan Seminarians

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he Spirit, Incorporated youth group of St. Joseph Church in Zwolle donned aprons, brandished spatulas and fired up griddles to sponsor a pancake breakfast. The energetic young people served hot cakes and sausages to parishioners between Masses on the morning of March 21. This was the fourth year for the event and the biggest yet! After the final tally, $1,375 was collected to be distributed to the seminarians of our diocese. This would not have been possible without the generosity of the parishioners. A special thank you is extended to the parents of the Spirit, Incorporated members who assisted during the breakfast.

St. Paschal Rosary Group Celebrates Second Anniversary

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group of parishioners at St. Paschal Catholic Church in West Monroe is dedicated to the Blessed Mother and saying the rosary every Tuesday for intentions of the Church. After Mass and the rosary, the group meets at a local breakfast café for coffee, biscuits and discussion. The group was formed nearly two years ago and never misses a meeting on Tuesday. The founders of the group are George and Virginia Smith.

Pictured: Judy Danna, Sr. Edith Schnell, Maxine Cavazos, Lou Ann Dennis, Averis Nelson, Virginia Smith, Evelyn LeBrun, Althea Dayton, Diane Beaird, George Smith and Don Gauthreauxe.

– Althea Dayton

Religious of the Diocese Gathered Together for Reflection

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ay 1-2 the Office of Religious for the Diocese of Shreveport hosted two events for men and women religious serving in the diocese. Sr. Carol Cimino, a Sister of Saint Joseph of Rochester, NY, led the retreat and presented her thoughts on the beatitudes. The retreat was followed by a dinner for all attendees.

Sacred Heart Led Open House for Blessed Sacrament Academy

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acred Heart Church in Shreveport hosted an Open House for Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy.

Students entertained attendees with song and dance. There were also crafts and activities for the children. Pictured Deacon Clary Nash began the special Open House for Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy with prayer. -John Mark Willcox

Discerning the Permanent Diaconate

by Deacon Michael Straub

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s I contemplate on what to say to those discerning the Permanent Diaconate, I recall being at the Red Mass and looking at all the judges in their black robes as they respectfully filed in to their pews. There they sat waiting on blessings for the coming court year.

My mind was abuzz with thoughts of all the people who have come before them in their courtrooms, and the many lives that are affected by their decisions. What a responsibility they have.

When I made the decision to become a Permanent Deacon, I struggled with what I would give up and what lay before me. I wondered how this decision would affect not just me, but others around me and those I had not even met. It was not an easy decision, nor should it be. St. Ignatius knew decisions and discernment were critical to individuals. After prayer and reflection he created a seven step process on making good decisions.

In short, here are those steps: 1. Right from the beginning ask for God’s guidance, then make a clear statement or question of what you are trying to decide.

2. Gather some information.

Make a pro and con list. Ask for an opinion. How will your decisions affect others?

3. Bring all this to prayer. Ask yourself, “Am I willing to let go of where I am?” Take your time with this step.

4. Decide which choice gives you more peace and make a decision.

5. Live with your decision. Pray for strength and courage to follow through.

6. Now it’s time to act on your decision. Try not to question yourself at this point and stay focused.

7. Seek confirmation. See if your decision bears fruit. Do not be discouraged if you start to doubt.

This is normal. Realize God does not want us to always be right but to

always be faithful.

This process works for many types of decisions. It could be buying a home, taking on a new job or retirement plans. The good news is you are not alone in your decision to enter the diaconate. The formation program will help you discern this life changing decision.

I have experienced that the burden of work can never be greater than the peace and joy that fills your life in serving God and His people.

The call to service is a call to the entire community, not just a select few. The Diaconate formation program will start Sept. 11, 2010.

This program has four parts: Academic, Pastoral, Spiritual and Parish assignments. The academic portion is a college program from the University of Dallas with 32 hours of college credit. Bishop Duca has set the class size for the Diaconate formation at 25 and another 25 places will be set aside for our DRE’s and Catholic school teachers who want to attend the academic portion.

Fall Semester 2010 includes the following courses: Philosophy; Introduction to Sacred Scripture; Ministry in the Church; Vatican II. Spring Semester 2011 includes the following courses: Philosophy; Introduction to Theology; Church History; Introduction to Morality.

For a full list of the courses in the four-year program, please visit our website.(http://www.dioshpt.org/ deacon/deaconformsandapps.html.)

Email cnash@dioshpt.org or call 318-207-0234 for questions or to make an appointment.

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Upcoming Events JUNE 25-26 : THE INITIATING COMMUNITY: ECHOING GOD’S WORD The North American Forum on the Catechumenate, in partnership with the Diocese of Shreveport, is putting on this special program. Participants will reflect on the relationship between faith, theology and doctrine. They will also be invited to explore different ways to hear scripture and offered a conversational method for catechists and homilists to prepare for preaching and catechesis.

Dr. Scott Hahn will speak at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans on June 26.

Online registration and brochures are available at www.naforum.org. For information about the Echoing God’s Word Institute, contact Dianne Rachal, 318-868-4441 or drachal@dioshpt.org.

JUNE 26: DR. SCOTT HAHN COMES TO SHREVEPORT Author, professor, Biblical theologian, Catholic convert and speaker Scott Hahn is coming to the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans.

Dr. Hahn will speak on “Letter and Spirit: From Written Text to Living Word in the Liturgy,” and “Reasons to Believe: How to Understand, Explain and Defend the Faith.”

An exceptionally popular speaker and teacher, Dr. Hahn has delivered numerous talks nationally and internationally on a wide variety of topics related to Scripture and the Catholic faith. Hundreds of these talks have been produced on audio and videotapes by St. Joseph Communications. These tapes have been effective in helping thousands of Protestants and fallen away Catholics to (re)embrace the Catholic faith. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets are $15 per person.

Contact the Cathedral at 318-221-5296 or visit www.sjbcathedral.org.

SEPTEMBER 2-11: PILGRIMAGE TO SPAIN & PORTUGAL Join Fr. Simeon Gallagher,

internationally acclaimed speaker and retreat leader, for an enriching spiritual journey to Spain and Portugal. 2010 is considered a Holy Year in Spain as the Feast of St. James falls on July 25.

Our program includes guided visits with local experts to historical religious sites, daily Mass and devotions.

Portugal is where our Blessed Mother appeared to three children at Fatima.

If you are interested or want more info, contact Kathy Snelling, 318-746-4369.

SEPTEMBER 9: PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE Parishioners from St. Terence Church will visit Medjugorje, one of the most spiritual and peaceful places on Earth, during September 2010. The group will depart September 9 and will spend seven nights in the peaceful village where the Blessed Mother is said to appear. Since 1981, in a small village named Medjugorje, in BosniaHerzegovina, the Blessed Virgin Mary has been appearing and giving messages to the world. Since the apparitions began in 1981, millions of people of all faiths, from all over the world, have visited Medjugorje and have left spiritually strengthened and renewed. If you are interested in joining this group, please contact Buddy Polson at 318-586-4701 or e-mail ebpolson@hughes.net.

2 0 1 0 D i o c e s a n s t e w a rd s h i p App e 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 www.dioshpt.org

22 23 Catholic Connection June 2010

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

June 2010 June 1: Saint Justin, martyr June 2: Presbyteral Council Meeting, Catholic Center, 1:00pm Saint Marcellinus and Saint Peter, martyrs June 3: St. Charles Lwanga, martyr, & his companions, martyrs June 4: Farm Workers Mass, Dawson Farm, Delhi, 6:00pm June 5: Saint Boniface, bishop & martyr June 6: The Most Holy Body & Blood of Christ Confirmation, St. Ann Church, Stonewall June 7: Greco Institute Summer Semester Begins June 9: Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Center, 12:00pm Protecting God's Children, Catholic Center, 6:00pm Saint Ephrem, deacon & doctor of the Church June 11: The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus June 12: Family Day, Youth Ministry, Cross Lake, 10:00am The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary June 14: USCCB Spring Meeting Begins, Florida (Ends 6/19) June 16: 24th Anniversary of the Diocese of Shreveport

July 2010 July 1: Deadline for Diocesan Directory Updates Blessed Junipero Serra, priest July 3: Saint Thomas, apostle July 4: Independence Day July 5: Independence Day Observed Catholic Center Closed Saint Anthony Mary Zaccaria, priest July 9: Saint Augustine Zhao Rong, priest & martyr, and his companions, martyrs July 10: Deadline for the August Catholic Connection July 13: Saint Henry July 14: Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin July 15: Saint Bonaventure, bishop & doctor of the Church July 16: Our Lady of Mount Carmel July 20: Saint Apollinaris, bishop & martyr

June 19: Saint Romuald, abbot

July 21: Saint Lawrence of Brindisi, priest & doctor of the Church

June 20: Father's Day

July 22: Saint Mary Magdalene

June 21: Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, religious

July 23: Saint Bridget of Sweden, religious

June 22: Mass for the 24th Anniversary of the Diocese of Shreveport, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 5:30pm St. Paulinus of Nola, bishop; St. John Fisher, bishop & martyr, & St. Thomas More, martyr

July 24: Saint Sharbel Makhluf, priest

June 24: The Nativity of John the Baptist June 25: North American Forum on the Catechumenate's Echoing God's Word, Catholic Center, 8:30am

July 25-31: Natural Family Planning Awareness Week July 26: Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program, Catholic Center, 9:30am-3:30pm Saint Joachim & Saint Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary July 29: Saint Martha

June 26: North American Forum on the Catechumenate's Echoing God's Word, Catholic Center, 8:30am Second Collection: Peter's Pence

July 30: Saint Peter Chrysologus, bishop & doctor of the Church

June 27: Second Collection: Peter's Pence

July 31: Saint Ignatius of Loyola, priest

June 28: Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program, Catholic Center, 9:30am June 29: St. Peter and St. Paul, apostles June 30: First Martyrs of the Church of Rome Finance Council Meeting, Catholic Center, 12:00pm 23 22

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

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Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Red Mass Honored Those Who Administer Law

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riday, May 7, Holy Trinity Church filled with judges, lawyers, government officials, Knights of Columbus and priests to celebrate the 18th annual Red Mass. Fr. Matthew Long was the homilist and spoke with conviction about Saint Thomas More and other historic figures who held their moral convictions throughout history, shaping our current legal system. This year’s Red Mass honored three members of the legal community who have recently passed away: Michael Hubley, Don Miller and memor y Diana Pratt-Wyatt.

Fr. M at th ew Lo ng was th e homilist for th is ye ar 's Re d M as s.

pre se n te d in Cand le s we re h ave re ce n t ly o h w ls ia c fi f o f le g a l o . p as se d away

Preists from thro ug ho ut th e Diocese of Shre ve po rt gath ered for this spec ia l M as s.

24 Catholic Connection June 2010

dge s, h o nore d Ju s s a M d e R ent d G o ve r nm L aw ye rs an ls .

Offic ia

Red M as s is an ec um enic al even t, br ingi ng to ge th er Ca th olic, Protes tant and Je w ish fait hs .