Catholic Connection June 2013

Vol. 22, No. 11 June 2013

The Harvest is Great

LABORERS NEEDED Overcoming Obstacles to the Priesthood Also: Vocations Crucifix Program

June 2013 1

from the editor

Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Contributors Sam Alzheimer Sr. Fatima Aphiri, OLS Shelly Bole Bishop Michael Duca Susan Flanagan Barbara Hall Kim Long Fr. Matthew Long Pablo Ortega Mary Frances Parker

Carl Piehl Fr. Rothell Price Jessica Rinaudo Katie Sciba Randy Tiller Mike Van Vranken Mike Whitehead John Mark Willcox

Editorial Board Kim Long Fr. Matthew Long Kelly Phelan Powell Dianne Rachal Christine Rivers Mike Whitehead John Mark Willcox Mission Statement The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Service Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport.

Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

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

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

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

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

2 Catholic Connection

by Jessica Rinaudo

E

very year the Catholic Connection takes a break in July to catch up on projects, like the diocesan directory, or begin new ones. I’m excited to announce that this year the Communications Department at the diocese has begun redesigning a new website for the Diocese of Shreveport.

This project has been more than a year in planning and construction and is well on its way to becoming a great resource for our churches, the Catholic faithful and those wishing to learn more about the Catholic faith. We’ve asked for suggestions from website users, and I’ve worked one on one with each of our departments to make sure their information gets to you in an easy to access, upto-date way.

Look for videos explaining and showcasing our ministries, a quick resource for church locations and Mass times and a central point of download for our church

parishes for all the forms they need.

We’re especially excited about our blooming priestly and religious vocations section of the website, which aims to answer some of those questions also addressed in this issue of the magazine. We will also have an up-to-date event calendar where you can quickly see what is going on in the Diocese of Shreveport!

Most importantly, there is a plan in place to keep all sections of our website current and full of good information, so you can stay informed and join in working more closely with the local Church.

Expect this exciting new web launch this fall!

We hope you have a wonderful summer.

bishop’s june calendar JUNE 1 Mission Possible: Catholic Boys Adventure Weekend sponsored by the Office of Church Vocations; Outdoor Wilderness Learning Center, Dubach JUNE 2 Confirmation; Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, Shreveport; 9:00 a.m.

JUNE 5 Joint Meeting: Catholic Charities of Shreveport Governing Board of Directors & Membership Board of Directors; Catholic Center; 12:00 p.m.

Confirmation; St. Joseph Church, Zwolle; 6:00 p.m.

JUNE 7 Sacred Heart Feast Day Mass & Celebration; Sacred Heart Church, Rayville; 5:30 p.m.

JUNE 10-15 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Spring Meeting; San Diego, CA

JUNE 19 Investment Committee meeting; Catholic Center; 10:00 a.m.

JUNE 22 Installation of Diaconate Candidates to the Order of Acolyte; Jesus the Good Shepherd Church; 4:30 p.m.

JUNE 23 Confirmation; St. Ann Church, Stonewall; 9:00 a.m.

JUNE 24 Diocesan Finance Council meeting; Catholic Center; 12:00 p.m.

JUNE 25 25th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood Mass in honor of Father Rothell Price & Father John Pardue; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans; 6:00 p.m.

contents

june 2013

columns Following God's Will When He Calls

by Bishop Michael G. Duca.............................................................................................. 4-5 Mike’s Meditations: Who Are You Working For? by Mike Van Vranken................6 Second Collections: Peter's Pence by Fr. Rothell Price .........................................6 Domestic Church: Showing How We Love by Katie Sciba.............................................7 Ways to Show Your Children Love by Katie Sciba ...................................................7

11

School News ...........................................................................................................8 Appeal Ministries: Seminary and Vocations by John Mark Willcox ..........................9 Moveable Feast: Scripture Cookies by Kim Long ...................................................9 Documents of Vatican II: Inter Mirifica by Mike Van Vranken ..............................10 Decree on Media of Social Communications

Year of Faith Saint: St. Marianne Cope, OSF by USCCB.......................................10 Navigating the Faith: The Order of Acolyte by Mike Whitehead.........................11

features

12

The Harvest is Great: Laborers Needed Overcoming Obstacles to the Priesthood

by Sam Alzheimer...................................................................................................... 12-13

Vocations Crucifix Program by Mary Frances Parker..............................................14 Sisters Part of Local History

by Sr. Fatima Aphiri, OLS & Fr. Matthew Long ............................................................14

news Money School Helps Family Attain Financial Stability by Carl Piehl....................15 Catholic Daughters Celebrate 100 Years by Barbara Hall...................................15 New Principal for Our Lady of Fatima School by John Mark Willcox ...................16

15 on the cover

Catholic Community Center Hosts After School Program by Randy Tiller..........16 New Initiatives for Catechesis Office by Shelly Bole..............................................17 Scouts Make Repairs in Carmel by Susan Flanagan .............................................17 Hispanic Corner by Pablo Ortega ..........................................................................18 Across the Globe by Catholic News Service...........................................................19 In Brazil, Pope to Meet Slum-Dwellers, Politicians, World's Youth; Pope Francis Welcomes Retired Pope Benedict Back to Vatican

Vatican News and Notes by Catholic News Service..............................................19 Around the Diocese ...............................................................................................20-21 Upcoming Events....................................................................................................22 June & July Calendar ............................................................................................23 Picture of the Month by John Mark Willcox ............................................................24

Obstacles to the priesthood include parents, peers and celibacy.

(Photo/Jessica Rinaudo)

June 2013 3

LA REFLEXIÓN del obispo

por Obispo Michael G. Duca

Siguiendo la Voluntad de Dios cuando Él nos Llama

E

l pasado abril celebré mis 35 años de Ordenación sacerdotal y el 19 de mayo los 5 años de obispo de Shreveport. ¿A dónde se fue el tiempo?

Estos sucesos importantes me han hecho reflexionar sobre todo lo que Dios ha hecho en mi vida como sacerdote.

Recuerdo que en el comienzo de mi vida como sacerdote era un poco ingenuo, pensaba que tenía una idea general de mi vida. Pensaba que sería un ayudante de párroco por algunos años, después sería párroco de parroquias en la diócesis de Dallas y me iba a retirar en una parroquia y morir. Aunque nos parezca simple este esquema de vida yo era feliz con este plan y viví mis primeros siete años de sacerdocio como lo esperaba como sacerdote asociado en tres diferentes parroquias. Después mi vida tomó una dirección diferente. En lugar de ser nombrado párroco, mi siguiente nombramiento, fue ser Director de Vocaciones y Ministro en la Universidad Metodista del Sur (SMU). Al final de este nombramiento de nueve años esperaba ser nombrado párroco, pero en lugar de eso fui enviado a Roma a estudiar la Ley Canoníca y regresé a Dallas como rector del Seminario de la Santísima Trinidad.

Después de servir doce años como rector, pues ustedes ya conocen el resto, fui sorprendentemente nombrado el segundo obispo de Shreveport.

Mi llamado al sacerdocio llegó como una pequeña voz dentro de mí un día en la iglesia cuando pensaba, mientras veía al sacerdote en la Misa: “Yo tal vez querría hacer eso…. ser un sacerdote.”

Mis padres me animaron a explorar mi futura vocación al sacerdocio. Este apoyo fue muy importante porque me permitió imaginarme a mí mismo como sacerdote y sentirme cómodo con la idea de ser sacerdote. Después de la preparatoria entré al Seminario de la Santísima Trinidad y fui ordenado sacerdote en 1978.

Cuando fui ordenado e hice el compromiso de la vocación al Sacerdocio, aunque yo sabía que estaba respondiendo al llamado de Dios, pensé que yo estaba todavía en control. Sí, estaba haciendo la 4 Catholic Connection

El Obispo Michael Duca, el segundo de la izquierda, con un grupo que fueron rectores del Seminario de la Santísima Trinidad en Dallas, TX.

voluntad de Dios pero pensaba que veía claramente cual era esa voluntad de Dios en mi vida. ¡Que ingenuo! Lo que Dios ve en nosotros es mucho mejor y más grande de lo que nos podemos imaginar.

Viviendo mi vida de sacerdote, continúe tratando de entender las vueltas y detalles de mi vida pero desde mi entendimiento limitado pensaba que sería párroco, pero mi vida siguió otras direcciones. Era como si no importara que hacía yo Dios estaba llevándome en otra dirección que yo no podía ver claramente. Cuando por fin pude ver que Dios podía tener una diferente dirección a lo que yo esperaba y un entendimiento más profundo de mi vida, dejé de luchar y de preguntarme cual era la voluntad de Dios en mi vida.

Más bien abracé Su voluntad y me deje llevar hacia una nueva libertad y como de sabiduría que me permite aceptar este maravilloso llamado a ser su Obispo aun cuñado con frecuencia me siento que no lo merezco. Confío que Dios sabe lo que está haciendo.

Creo que muchos de nosotros hemos tenido esta experiencia de luchar con la voluntad de Dios en nuestras vidas pero si somos sabios tarde o temprano nos rendiremos y aceptaremos los desafíos

de nuestra vida. Estos desafíos son el resultado de una vida que fue creada en parte por nuestras opciones y también por aquellas que nosotros no escogimos sino que nos fueron dadas. Cuando vivimos nuestras vidas con confianza y esperanza en el llamado de Dios, estamos viviendo una vocación, estamos respondiendo al llamado de Dios en nuestra vida a la santidad y a vivir como sus discípulos.

Animen a sus hijos cuando ellos pregunten acerca de una vocación al sacerdocio o a la vida religiosa, y cuando su hijo les diga que el piensa que podría querer ser sacerdote, o su hija está considerando una vida religiosa, apóyenlos y animen su imaginación para que si Dios los está llamando puedan escuchar el llamado. Enséñenles a vivir sus vidas en relación al llamado de Dios a la santidad y al discipulado.

Esa pequeña voz que escuché cuando era niño me ha llevado a un camino de fe que no hubiera podido imaginar, y le doy gracias a Dios. La vida que imaginé para mí era más pequeña y sin imaginación y el plan de Dios, solo les puedo decir, Dios tiene una imaginación maravillosa y yo solo comienzo a ver lo que Él tiene reservado para mí.

bishop’s reflection

by Bishop Michael G. Duca

Following God’s Will when He calls

T

his past April I celebrated my 35th year of ordination to the priesthood, and on May 19 I marked five years as Bishop of Shreveport.

Where did the time go? These important milestones caused me to take time to consider all that the Lord has done in my Bishop Duca life as a priest.

I remember beginning my priestly life rather naïve, thinking I knew the general outline of the life before me. I would be an assistant pastor for a few years, then I would pastor a number of parishes in the Diocese of Dallas and then I would retire in a parish and die. As simple and uneventful this outline of a life sounds, I was happy with this plan and lived my first seven years of priesthood as expected as an associate pastor in three different parishes. Then my life took off in a different direction. Instead of being named the pastor of a parish, my next assignment was Vocations Director and Campus Minister at Southern Methodist University (SMU). At the end of this nine-year assignment I expected to be named a pastor, but instead I was sent to Rome to study Canon Law and then returned to Dallas as Rector of Holy Trinity Seminary. After serving 12 years as rector, well you know the rest, I was surprisingly named second Bishop of Shreveport.

My call to the priesthood came as a small voice within me one day in church when I thought, as I watched the priest at Mass, that “I might want to do that... to be a priest.” My parents encouraged me to explore the priesthood as a future vocation. This support was important because it allowed me to imagine myself as a priest and to become comfortable with the idea of being a priest. After high school I entered Holy Trinity Seminary and was ordained to the order of the priesthood in 1978.

When I was ordained and made the commitment to the vocation of priesthood, even though I knew I was

answering God’s call, I thought I was also children when they inquire about a still in control. Yes, I was doing God’s vocation to the priesthood or religious will, but I thought I saw clearly what life, and when your son tells you he God’s will was for my life. How naïve. thinks he might want to be a priest or What God sees in us is so much better your daughter is considering a religious and greater than we can imagine. As I life, support them and encourage their lived my life as a priest, I kept trying to imagination so that if God is calling them understand its twists and turns within they will be able to hear the call. Teach my limited understanding that I would them to live their lives in relation to be a parish priest, but my life kept going God’s call to holiness and discipleship. in other directions. It was as though no That quiet voice I heard as a child has matter what I tried to do God was leading led me on a journey of faith that I could me in another direction that I could not not have imagined, and I thank God. The clearly see. When I was finally able to see life I imagined for myself was small and that God may have a different direction unimaginative and God’s plan, well, let’s and a deeper understanding of my life, just say God has a wonderful imagination I stopped fighting and second guessing and I am only beginning to see what He God’s will for my life. Instead I embraced has in store for me.

His will and with that surrender came a new freedom and a kind of wisdom that allows me to accept this wonderful call to be your bishop, even though I often feel unworthy. I trust God does know what He is doing.

I believe many of us have had this experience of fighting God’s will in our lives, and if we are wise we eventually let go and accept the challenges of the life that are ours. These challenges are the result of a life that was created both by our choices and those parts we did not choose, but were given to us. When we live our lives with trust and hope in God’s call, we are living a vocation, we are answering the call of God in our lives to holiness and to live as his disciples.

Encourage your Most Rev. Michael G. Duca was ordained a Bishop in May 2008.

June 2013 5

mike’s meditations

by Mike Van Vranken

second collection

by Fr. Rothell Price

Who are you Working For? second collections Change your perspective and do all work for God

Peter’s Pence

W

hen asked who we work for, our brains usually frame our response based on our earthly employer. We may respond with the name of a company or organization; with our own name if we are self-employed; maybe that we work in the home or that we are retired. Today, let’s begin using a different answer. It may seem uncomfortable at first, but it may change our perspective of work for the rest of our lives.

Consider this scripture: “Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others.” (Colossians 3:23) Try to imagine approaching the tasks and work of each day as solely doing them for Jesus. Would such a concept add joy to your life? Would this changed attitude give you new energy as you toil through the day?

Think how different Monday mornings would be if we charged into our labor knowing that we would apply ourselves with all our hearts because we were doing it for the Lord.

Genesis 2:15 tells us God took man into the garden to cultivate and care for it. In other words, man was to do some work. God, the awesome creator, made us to be productive and creative as well. Our work not only provides for life’s necessities, but it also develops our gifts and talents (gifts from God), cultivates and refines our own nature (a gift from God), allows us to participate in God’s creations (a gift from God) and allows us to bring God into our own environments. In short, our work brings us into a relationship with God and His creation. Our work, whatever it is, wherever it is and with whomever it is, connects us with the goods of the earth – ultimately created by God Himself.

So, is it any wonder that the writer of the letter to the Colossians urged us to do everything from the heart as we are doing it for the Lord? That scripture begins with the word “whatever.” The most common synonym for the word “whatever” is the word “everything.” This scripture refers to every action, every thought, every prayer, every movement we have – we are to do them as for the Lord and not for others. It may sound difficult because that is not the way the rest of the world or we currently live. But, according to God’s Word, it IS the way we should live.

Let’s make a decision to do everything for Jesus with all our hearts. If we are cleaning the house, if we are at our employment, if we are in our daily prayers – whatever we are doing at any given moment, let’s happily, joyfully and heartily do it for the Lord. As we see a change in ourselves, others will see it too. We will have brought God into our own lives and the lives of others.

Mike has a teaching ministry (www.mikevanvrankenministries.org) and serves as an adjunct professor for the Diocese of Shreveport’s Greco Institute.

6 Catholic Connection

Announcement Dates: June 16 & 23 Collection Dates: June 29 & 30 “ e a Pilgrim of Charity.” This is the theme of the 2013 Peter’s Pence Collection. This theme of being evangelizing pilgrims is rooted in 1 Corinthians 13:7, “Charity bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

The fathers of the Second Vatican Council affirmed the Church as “The Pilgrim People of God,” proclaiming our individual and communal journey to the fullness of the Kingdom, proclaimed

by Christ the Lord. The Peter’s Pence Collection gives each of us the opportunity to become a pilgrim of charity around the world.

Our gifts to this annual collection help the Holy Father strengthen dioceses, religious orders and struggling communities of faith. We are blessed with the unique opportunity to pursue a corporal and spiritual work of mercy, which is at the heart of the priestly life and petrine ministry of Pope Francis. Our participation in Peter’s Pence affords us the privilege of going beyond talk about solidarity with the poor to concrete union and service to these brothers and sisters of ours in word and deed.

What a wonderful gift each of us can personally give to the Lord Jesus and our Holy Father as they are begged by their daughters and sons around the world for help from on High, and from the Vicar of Christ on earth. In the poor dioceses where many are dependent on the Church for social and pastoral support, in regions where Catholics are persecuted for their faith and in nations overloaded with refugees and victims of war and natural disasters, the works done by the Holy Father help the Church (us) extend charity to those most in need.

Pope Francis represents each and every one of us. “In every diocese and in every parish and religious community, Peter’s Pence is collected every year and sent to the center of the Church to be redistributed as required by the needs and requests that the Pope receives from every corner of the earth.” Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI to the members of the Circolo San Pietro, March 8, 2007. Please participate fully and give generously to this year’s Peter’s Pence Collection. Your personal participation will ensure the success of this collection in this Year of Faith and the first year of the pontificate of Pope Francis.

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

B

domestic church

by Katie Sciba

Showing How We Love More ways to show you care besides saying, "I love you"

I

’m relatively new to parenting, but despite the green tint to my perspective, it’s clear that if I’m going to be any good at it, I need to learn what makes my kids tick.

What do they (sxc.hu/ S. Braswell) like doing?

What goes on in their little heads? Most importantly, how can I tell them I love them so that they’ll really understand?

Sure there’s the straightforward “I love you,” which is wonderful and sweet, but it doesn’t quite register with small children the way it does with adults. This sort of obstacle isn’t unique to little ones, either; saying “I love you,” might convey affection to a 10-year-old, but not a teenager. Love has to be demonstrated in addition to being verbalized; so in an effort to discern how to tell our kids we love them, I researched The 5 Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman, marriage and family life expert. Everyone communicates and receives love with different approaches, which Chapman divided into five categories: Words of affirmation give encouragement like saying, “I’m proud of you,” or “You did it!” Acts of service offer support through anticipating a person’s needs; like fixing a broken bike or making breakfast when the morning is rushed. Gift giving is fun, especially for kids. Giving lets others know you were thinking about them and it conveys a special sense of closeness. Quality time is an investment of self into your kids; it’s undivided attention that lets your kids know that they’re a priority. Lastly, physical touch communicates affection as a unique aspect to any close relationship. Hugs, kisses, or a simple pat on the back tell your kids that you’re ready to support them.

Understanding the love languages leads

to further insight into my relationship with my kids and my relationship with my own parents. As their child, it’s good for me to recognize what their methods of expressing love are.

When it comes to parenting, my dad’s primary love language is acts of service. I didn’t realize it until somewhat recently, but now it’s one of my favorite things about him. Occasionally, I’d find that my truck was clean and full, ready for the road. My mom’s love language toward us kids is gift giving and quality time. She’s always game for ice cream and a drive around town, which is a sure way to have fun with her.

My whole life, my parents told me they loved me through their caring attention and I felt more secure and confident in our relationship.

No matter if you’re on the receiving or expressing end of love, understanding the 5 Love Languages in terms of parenting can transform your family life. Through exploring each language and our kids’ personalities, my husband and I figure out exactly how to love them in ways each one best receives. What’s the result? For us, it’s happier children and a connection 100 times better than before. More than that, however, our Christian faith is strengthened as a family unit. In learning how to love our kids, we imitate God the Father whose perfect love abounds in the lives of all His children. “We love because He first loved us” (1 Jn 4:19); and opening our eyes to this helps us see the love languages were written by his hand.

Katie blogs at thecatholicwife.net. She lives in Shreveport with her husband, Andrew, and three sons, Liam,Thomas and Peter.

Ways to Show Your Children Love Even basic knowledge of the Five Love Languages can help you become closer with your children (www.5lovelanguages.com).

Words of Affirmation

Don't save compliments just for your kids’ achievements. Saying, “I love you,” or “I'm proud of you,” at any time is a powerful expression of love to children who relish in that type of support.

Quality Time

Unplugged and away from all distractions, nothing conveys love like undivided attention. Spend quality time with your kids to truly invest in them and to allow yourself the chance to get to know them on a deeper level.

Gift Giving

Surprises are so much fun no matter what age you are! Combined with sincere thoughtfulness, this can make any child’s day.

Acts of Service

Helping your kids with any of their needs - homework, finding a lost toy, teaching them to drive - lets them know you're there for them in a steady and dependable way.

Physical Touch

From hugs to kisses, high fives and playful roughhousing, physical touch communicates love, enthusiasm, and a close bond between parents and children.

June 2013 7

school NEWS < May Day is traditionally celebrated in many countries to acknowledge the coming of spring by wrapping a May Pole. To participate in this custom, the students at Jesus the Good Shepherd School took part in their own May Day festivities titled, “JGS takes a Louisiana Hayride.” In celebration of the bicentennial of Louisiana, JGS students danced to different Louisiana songs and toured Louisiana’s culture and traditions. The 6th graders participated in the event by wrapping two May Poles, which marked a rite of passage for them as they move on to the seventh grade.

^ In honor of the month of May, the month dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mother Mary, St. Joseph School students participated in a Marian Procession. This procession traveled around the school with a statue of Mary while the students looked on. The event culminated with students bringing forth flowers for the Mary statue in the St. Joseph Church sanctuary.

^ William Windham has been chosen as the Flyer of the Year at Loyola College Prep for the 2012-13 school year. The Flyer of the Year award is chosen by the faculty and given to the student who best shows the qualities that reflect Loyola’s mission statement of producing a “A Person for Others.” Windham was selected as a National Merit Finalist and an AP Scholar. He will attend Duke University in the fall.

> St. John Berchmans School students took first place at the Science Olympiad State Competition held April 27 on the campus of Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, LA. The team of 14 students competed against middle school teams from around the state of Louisiana in a variety of subjects. This is the fifth consecutive year that St. John Berchmans School has won first place at the state level.

Science Olympiad team members are Principal Jo Cazes, Nick Henderson, Mark Dupaguier, Marie Marcalus, Arianne Soriano, Alex Siharath, Isabella Silvia, Brady Deason, Blaise Chagnard, Sarah Siharath, Maggie Chreene, Coach Norma Waters, Catherine Marcalus and Coach Amy Simon. Not pictured are Loyola students Cameron Mitchell, Sophia Silvia and Matthew Vitacca.

8 Catholic Connection

^ Our Lady of Fatima School celebrated their annual May Crowning on May 1 at the beginning of their weekly school Mass. Our Lady of Fatima students brought flowers to honor Mary while singing “Immaculate Mary.” This year their crowner was Bernice Capulong.

Bernice recently received her First Holy Communion at Our Lady of Fatima Church on April 27.

appeal ministries

by John Mark Willcox

SEMINARY & Vocations

Appeal donations fund priestly and religious formation

O

ne of the many challenges of recruiting new seminarians to serve as our future priests of the diocese is finding the means to afford the education and training they must receive prior to ordination. Thankfully, we have our Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal to provide the required tuition and room and board to assist them with their education at both the college and theologate level. Our Appeal has a long tradition of caring for the needs of our seminarians and support for our diocesan Office of Vocations, which continually seeks to identify and enlist men and women for a lifetime of religious service to the Church.

In the coming year, diocesan Vocations Director Fr. Matthew Long hopes to assist several women in their vocational call and enroll additional seminarians to the five men we currently have in seminary formation who depend heavily on your Appeal generosity. Know that your Appeal dollar also makes a big difference in our ability to support these additional seminarians as we seek to provide a promising future for our ordained leadership.

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

moveable feast

by Kim Long

Scripture Cookies

I

enjoy a “well-turned” phrase.

I enjoy the flow of words... in years past from my pencil, then I went through the fountain pen phase and now it’s a keyboard. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the magic that occurs, the grace that explodes when a well loved, well constructed phrase breaks the silence.

I was in a chapel this week for a sad occasion, a funeral. At times I feel almost like a professional mourner because I have been to so many funerals. Indeed it is a tenant of our Catholic faith to “bury the dead.” The priest and the minister had my prayers throughout as did the family.

I sat listening as the priest read a familiar passage and then the minister began to speak. He flowed effortlessly from one scripture passage to another like gliding along the surface of a lake smooth as glass and leaving no ripple. I found myself mentally repeating the passages with him.

I liked that I remembered so many of them and that they comforted me beyond tears, beyond grief. With each familiar verse I felt the comfort and company of those who had gone before me.

I was struck by the statement from scripture, both in Deuteronomy 8:3 and in Matthew 4:4 that we are not fed by bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. I was indeed being filled and was thankful. I thought about how sweet God’s Word is, how I was taught by my grandmother that there is power in the Word; God’s own well turned phrases giving me peace.

There is an old recipe “Scripture Cake.”

It is a teaching tool, even a bit of a cipher since one must look up the scripture verses listed and deduce the ingredients and, in some cases, the amounts. Rather than cake, I thought cookies would be fun and found numerous recipes, all very similar on the internet. I opted for the cookies and not the cake because I had been so recently reminded, verse by verse, bite by bite that God’s love, God’s Word is sweet.

I offer this recipe in both forms, although it’s fun to enlist all the family to look up the passages and make a game of it. Enjoy !

Scripture Cookies Ingredients (Scripture): • ½ cup Psalm 55:21 • 1 Isaiah 10:14 • 1 cup Matthew 13:33 • ½ tsp Galatians 5:9 (use baking soda not yeast) • ¾ c 1st Chronicles 12:40 • ½ cup Psalm 119:103 • 2 tsp. Ephesians 5:2 (vanilla is a fragrance ) • 1 tsp. Proverbs 7:17 • 2 cups Mark 4:7 Ingredients (Translated): • ½ cup butter (at room temperature) • ½ cup honey • 1 egg • 2 tsp vanilla • 1 cup flour (plain) • 1 tsp. salt • ½ tsp. baking soda • 1 tsp. cinnamon • 2 cups Old Fashioned Oatmeal • ¾ cup raisins Directions: Beat honey and butter until well combined, then beat in the egg and vanilla. In a separate bowl mix all dry ingredients except raisins.

Begin to incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well mixed.

Add raisins last. Drop by spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 12-14 minutes. Remove to wire racks and let cool. Enjoy with a cup of tea and prayer of thanksgiving!

June 2013 9

Vatican II Documents of Inter Mirifica Decree on Media of Social Communications

T

by Mike Van Vranken

he Decree on the Media of Social Communications: this title sounds like a new Church teaching on how we use social media, right? Well, yes and no. Yes, in the sense that we can use the spirit and underlying philosophy of this document as a guide to the use of the overwhelming amount of information we have at our fingertips today. No in the sense that this is the name of the Vatican II document where the worldwide bishops dived into the issue of the media and how it is used. Some would say this document is dated as it has a very archaic (50 years ago) understanding of how we gather and report information as the Body of Christ.

But, it only takes a moral understanding of its principles to see that it is as much applicable today as it was in 1963.

The introduction proclaims that the Church welcomes and promotes “wonderful technological discoveries” that help us uncover new avenues of communicating news, views and teachings.

The point is immediately made that proper utilization of this technology is our duty and our responsibility.

The document is divided into two chapters.

The first, with the title “On the Teaching of the Church,” helps remind readers that the ordained and laity alike have an obligation to announce the Good News of salvation and the media of social communication is a valuable tool in this work. The bishops were quick to point out that any of us who use any media to promote the gospel must “be acquainted with the norms of morality and conscientiously put them into practice in this area.”

10 Catholic Connection

Chapter 1 goes on to focus on three issues: the information that we want to research and share; the relationship between this information and the norms of morality and finally; how this knowledge will be narrated or shared.

Chapter 2, titled “On the Pastoral Activity of the Church,” begins with the urgent mandate that “all the children of the Church should join, without delay and with the greatest effort in common work” to determine the best way to effectively use these communication channels to bear witness to Christ. We are to make sure that we provide for the needs of priests, religious and the laity to equip them with the proper skills for adapting any media to the objectives of our apostolic work. In the end, we are reminded that the information and our ability to spread it reaches beyond national boundaries and will have an impact on all of us, both individually and collectively, throughout the human family. The bishops urge each other to make known the general principles and norms that should govern our use of the media of social communications.

In some ways, this document makes us smile as we realize the bishops could have never imagined the deluge of data we are inundated with today and the technological means we have to access and distribute that data. At the same time, it is so marvelous to see how the Holy Spirit led these Church shepherds of the 1960’s to design and develop a document that is yet very appropriate for us today, and maybe even more relevant than when the ink was still wet. Their conclusion is simple: you and I have an inexhaustible responsibility to scrutinize our every use of the complex and diverse technology and infinite amount of information of today’s world. Furthermore, we must unceasingly insist that it only be used in moral and conscientious ways to help build the kingdom of God. I encourage every Christian to read and study this Vatican II document, and go ahead and use the internet to find it. It’s one of those “wonderful technological discoveries” the bishops wrote about. http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_ decree_19631204_inter-mirifica_en.html

Year of Faith Saint: June 2013

S

t. Marianne Cope was a born leader. Growing up as one of the older children of a large family, she went to work in a factory right after finishing the eighth grade. She joined the Sisters of the Third Order of Saint Francis a few years later and began a whirlwind of leadership roles: twice as the novice mistress of her congregation, and three times as the superior of St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse. This leadership, coupled with her sympathy for mankind in general, led her to volunteer to go to Hawaii to take care of the lepers. She was finally stationed in Molokai, where she brought education and happiness to the leper colony: even providing bright scarves and pretty dresses for the women.

Mother Marianne met Fr. Damien de Veuster for the first time in January 1884, when he was in apparent good health. Two years later, in 1886, after he had been diagnosed with Hansen's disease, Mother Marianne alone gave hospitality to the outcast priest upon hearing that his illness made him an unwelcome visitor to Church and Government leaders in Honolulu.

Together she and three sisters ran Bishop Home for Girls and Home for Boys. from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops & vatican.va

Navigating the Faith Order of Acolyte

by Mike Whitehead, Deacon Candidate

T

he word acolyte has a rich and textured meaning in our Catholic tradition. It is stitched into the fabric of our faith when we discuss our call to service through humility and grace.

For 16 men in the Diocese of Shreveport, acolyte will have an even deeper significance this month. Candidates in the ongoing Diaconate Formation will gather in Monroe for a ceremony called Institution of Acolytes.

It is the next step that will ultimately lead to ordination for the Permanent Diaconate in 2014. In 2013, Bishop Michael Duca installed this group of men into the Order of Lector. In 2012, the group was admitted as Candidates for the Diaconate after one year in the Aspirant phase of the formation.

The Order of Acolyte marks the end of the third year of a four-year formation.

The ceremony will be a reminder of the Candidates’ call to service in the church. It will be a celebration, but it also will be a time of reverence, prayer and act as a reminder of God’s call in our lives. In the ceremony for Institution of Acolytes, it eloquently states that the Candidates “should should seek to understand the deep spiritual meaning of what you do, so that you may offer yourselves daily to God as spiritual sacrifices acceptable to him through Jesus Christ.”

The Catechism of the Catholic Church puts it this way: “Lay people who possess the required qualities can be admitted permanently to the ministries of lector and acolyte. (CCC 903). The Catechism, when speaking about sacramentals, goes on to say, “Certain blessings have a certain importance because they consecrate persons to God. Among those blessings which are intended for persons ... are certain ministries of the church (acolytes). (CCC 1672) In his apostolic letter, Pope Paul VI noted that the acolyte is appointed to aid the priest and the deacon. “It is therefore his duty to attend the service of the altar and to assist the deacon and priest in liturgical celebrations, especially in the celebration of the Mass.”

The Order of Acolyte is closely linked with the Eucharist, and the acolyte will be called on

Orlando Batongbakal Scott Brandle Tom Deal Chris Domingue Bill Goss

To Attend What: Order of Acolyte Ceremony Where: Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church When: Saturday, June 22, 4:30 p.m. to distribute Holy Communion to the faithful during the liturgy and to the sick. Additional functions include preparation of the altar and sacred vessels before the celebration and during it. The acolyte also is called upon to bring communion to the sick in their homes, in hospitals and other institutions, and homes for the aged. The acolyte also is permitted to expose the the Blessed Sacrament “when necessity so demands.” The acolyte would be called upon to instruct others who assist and serve in the liturgical celebration. In this way, he becomes the first of the unordained ministers of the altar.

In his Apostolic Letter, Ministeria quaedum, issued in 1972, Pope Paul VI goes on to say “it is especially fitting that the ministries of lector and acolyte should be entrusted to those who, as Candidates for Holy Orders, desire to devote themselves to God and to the Church in a special way. For the Church, which does not cease to receive the bread of life from the table of the word of God and the Body of Christ and offer it to the faithful, considers it to be very opportune that, both study and by gradual exercise of the ministry of the word and of the altar, candidates for Holy Orders should, through intimate contact, understand and reflect upon the double aspect of the priestly office. Thus it comes about that the authenticity of the ministry shines out with the greatest effectiveness. In this way the candidates are to approach Holy Orders fully aware of their vocation, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord, constant in prayer, and aware of the needs of the faithful.”

Every step of the Diaconate Formation process –– from Aspirant, to Candidate, to the Order of Lector, to the Order of Acolyte, has been a time of prayer, study and discernment.

Each of the 16 Candidates has grown through the first three years of the formation. Thanks to the marvelous professors from the University of Dallas, our knowledge has deepened through our study of such courses as scripture, ministry, philosophy, theology and Christology. Before the end of our formation, we will continue to work on the nuts and bolts aspect of ministry, if you will, such as baptisms, weddings, funerals and attending to the sick. We are blessed to be a part of a well-rounded and thoughtful curriculum to prepare us for ministry in the Church.

Of course, while our formation training has met the highest standard, we also understand we must continue our journey in humility, prayer and a sense of awe. We will approach our induction into the Order of Acolyte with the same reverence as we did when we were inducted into the Order of Lector, as we did when we were inducted as Candidates.

This is a ministry of service and we always want to be cognizant of the needs of those in our Church, as well as our community. We also are called to be a voice for those who have no voice. In this way, we begin to fulfill what Pope Paul VI described as approaching a ministry that’s authentic in nature.

Finally, Pope Paul VI shines this light on the Order of Acolyte: “Destined as he is in a special way for the service of the altar, the acolyte should learn all matters concerning public divine worship and strive to grasp the inner spiritual meaning; in that way he will be able each day to offer himself entirely to God, be an example to all by his seriousness and reverence in the sacred building, and have a sincere love for the Mystical Body of Christ, the People of God, especially the weak and the sick.”

As Bishop Duca will say in our Order of Acolyte ceremony, “Brothers and sisters, let us pray to the Lord for those chosen by him to serve in the ministry of acolyte. Let us ask him to fill them with his blessing and strengthen them for faithful service in His Church.”

There is little doubt, that at that moment, all 16 candidates for the diaconate will silently pray, “Amen.”

Diaconate Candidates Bill Kleinpeter Steve Lehr Danny LeMoine

Jack Lynch David Nagem Robert Ransom

Ricardo Rivera Charles Thomas Mark Vereen Mike Whitehead Mike Wise June 2013 11

Francisco Simoncini and Spencer Hurst pray for vocations at St. Joseph Church in Shreveport.

The Harvest is Great

LABORERS NEEDED Overcoming Obstacles to the Priesthood

by Sam Alzheimer

F

or every 100 priests who die or retire, only 30 men are being ordained. That’s the recent finding from CARA, an organization which studies demographic trends in the U.S. Catholic Church. The Diocese of Shreveport is particularly impacted by a priesthood shortage: only three diocesan priests are under age 50, and we have only had one ordination in the last 11 years.

Nonetheless, Vocations Director, Fr. Matthew Long, is optimistic. “I’m filled with hope right now!” he said enthusiastically. “Our number of seminarians is going to increase this year, and the average age is going to go down.”

At 37, Fr. Long is the youngest priest in the diocese, and is nearing the end of his first year as Vocations Director. He recently attended a conference with other vocations directors in the region to discuss the challenges of their unique work.

“My greatest would-be allies in vocations ministry are priests and parents,” he said. He cited the USCCB’s just-released survey of men being ordained this summer, in which 67% say parish priests were their biggest

influence.

“The problem is that other studies show that only 30% of parish priests are actively inviting guys to consider priesthood,” he said. “I think we priests need to better express the joy and fulfillment that we experience from our own vocation. Young men are inspired when they see the priesthood well-lived.”

But while priests can impact young men, parents are often more influential. Fr. Long says that in his work with young men who are considering priesthood – especially men of high school age – parents shape critical decisions.

“Parents want their children to be successful in life, and I understand that,” said Fr. Long. “My parents were the same way, but the problem is the definition of success. Are parents more focused on academic and athletic success, which is fleeting, than on their son’s spiritual health, his eternal soul? I tell parents that there are no plans they can make for their child that are better than God’s plans.”

Sometimes, even good Catholic parents steer their sons away from seminary. “I often hear parents say they want their son to experience ‘real life’ first, or have a ‘normal college experience.’”

The reality is that most people don’t understand what seminary is like. It’s not a monastery where men walk around dark halls in strict silence. Rather, visitors to modern American seminaries are impressed by the joyful camaraderie of seminarians. It’s a college environment with study, sports and nights on the town – but balanced with prayer, spiritual

“I tell parents that there are no plans they can make for their child that are better than God’s plans.”

12 Catholic Connection

direction and serious discernment of whether a man is being that a parent transmits on the natural level, the priest transmits called to be a priest. on a spiritual level. That’s the deepest reason for celibacy—to be “Going to seminary is not a commitment to become a priest,” unattached to any particular person in order to be available to emphasized Fr. Long. In fact, because of the years-long process, minister to the spiritual needs of all people.” it’s far less likely that a man will mistakenly advance toward Nonetheless, celibacy is a real sacrifice, says Fr. Long. “Priests, ordination than for a young man to jump into an ill-advised marriage.

“Guys who go to seminary Bishop and Bishop Emeritus and then discern out are better for it,” he said. “They’re active diocesan priests (3 are past retirement age and grateful for the experience, for more are nearing retirement age in the near future) the formation and knowledge, which often makes them better missionary priests (1 is past retirement age) Catholic husbands and fathers.

Many former seminarians point retired diocesan priests to seminary as the most valuable experience in their lives.” parishes and missions in civil parishes A major consideration for most seminarians is whether Last ordinations were and they are being called to celibacy.

There are only active diocesan priests under the age of In the wake of the sexual abuse scandals, seminary personnel are highly aware that any man who is ordained must be psycho-sexually healthy. Thus training on some level, do mourn the absence of a wife and family. I think in the virtue of chastity is a high priority, and seminarians take my parents looked forward to holding my children. But you it seriously. know, when they see my happiness, it really does make up for it.

Celibacy alone, though, is not the determining factor about Interestingly, now that I’m a priest, I actually get to spend more whether a man is called to priesthood. As Fr. Long puts it, rather quality time with my parents than I would otherwise.” bluntly: “You can’t make decisions about eternity based on Looking towards the challenges of his job, Fr. Long says that whether or not you get to have sex.” his experience working with young people gives him hope.

“For me, celibacy is very life-giving,” he said. “Every time “I’m seeing a new influx of young men asking what God wants I come in contact with a child I have baptized, I am affirmed them to do with their lives, and I’m really impressed by the in my celibacy. The same is true when I see couples whose quality of men we have in seminary. I sense we’re on the cusp marriages I witnessed. The priest transmits life through of something great. The most glorious days of the diocese are witnessing marriage, through baptism—all of the same things ahead of us!”

Diocese of Shreveport by the Numbers 1

1

23

19

9

27

11

16 2002

2009

3

50

Stats on Newest Priests

Earlier this year, 366 men scheduled to be ordained priests this summer were surveyed.

Some of the findings include: • Average age of the class of 2013 is 35.5.

• 92% are cradle Catholics.

Two thirds are Caucasian.

• One third were born outside the U.S. • 62% report full-time work experience before •

entering seminary.

• On average, ordinands were 17 when they first thought about priesthood.

• Half said they were discouraged by at least one person from entering seminary.

• About 43 percent had attended Catholic grade school, high school, or college.

• One-quarter carry educational debt, with the average being $15,000.

• 67% of ordinands said a parish priest encouraged them to become a priest.

• Only 28% reported that their fathers encouraged them to become a priest, and 30% reported that their dad discouraged them.

• Only 34% reported that their mothers encouraged them to become a priest, and 28% reported that their mom discouraged them.

• 47% had participated in a parish youth group.

67% had been altar servers.

• 62% reported spending regular time in Eucharistic

•

Adoration before entering seminary.

• 68% regularly prayed the rosary before entering seminary.

June 2013 13

vocations corner

Vocations Crucifix Program Sisters Part of Local History Families pray for vocations in their homes

“

T

he harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” (Matthew 9:37) This certainly strikes home. The Diocese of Shreveport has had only one ordination to the priesthood in the past 11 years. Close to half of the priests in our diocese are missionary priests. Only three of our priests are younger than 50 and several are rapidly approaching retirement age. Some of our priests are technically retired, but are still active in ministry. We are blessed to have five seminarians, but it takes as long as eight years for a new seminarian to be ordained. It is urgent for us to “pray to the Lord of the Harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”

In response to this need, some of our parishes have begun a Vocations Crucifix Program. The purpose of the program is not only to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life, but to also offer prayerful support for our current priests and seminarians. At the end of every weekend Mass, the celebrant gives a blessing to the family who has chosen to receive the vocations crucifix into their home. This family agrees to place the crucifix in a place of prominence and pray for religious and priestly vocations that week. On the following weekend they return the crucifix so it can be passed on to a different family. The crucifix is in a box that also contains a packet with a letter suggesting other ways to support vocations and explaining the program. Included in the box is a prayer card, which offers an easy way to pray for each of our priests and seminarians by name over the course of a month. There is a sign-up book at the back of the church for people to participate in the program.

The initial response to this program has been strong and generous, and at least one of the local Catholic schools has picked up the program and is now presenting the vocations crucifix to a particular home room at the weekly school Mass. Not only are the priests and seminarians benefitting from the prayers of these children, but the children are being blessed by their frequent exposure to the idea of discerning a vocation. Another nice benefit is that people participating in the program are corresponding with the seminarians to let them know of their prayers and support.

The goal of the Vocations Crucifix Program is to encourage our churches to remember to pray for vocations not just sporadically, but perpetually. My hope is that all parishes in the diocese will adopt this crucial apostolate, essential for the future of the Church.

The Lord cannot be outdone in generosity. All we have to do is ask.

If you are interested in starting a Vocations Crucifix Program at your parish, contact Fr. Matthew Long, Vocations Director, at 318868-4441.

by Mary Frances Parker, mother of seminarian John Parker.

14 Catholic Connection

Sisters support local community and form women from around the world for religious life

T

he Diocese of Shreveport has been blessed to have a consistent presence of religious women within our area during its entire history. One of the most well known group of sisters is the Daughters of the Cross, whose motherhouse was located where the current Catholic Center is situated. There is also another group of sisters, the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows, whose presence in our diocese since 1947 has been a blessing. They were invited to north Louisiana by Bishop Charles Greco and have been serving the needs of the poor, the marginalized and others ever since. Their motherhouse and house of formation are located in Shreveport where they serve both the residents of Holy Angels Residential Facility and the children attending the Renzi Education and Art Center, an early childhood development center.

The Congregations of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows was founded in 1839 in Coriano, Italy, by Blessed Elisabetta Renzi.

Mother Elisabetta was committed to providing both human and Christian formation and education to the children and young women of her time. There were many who benefited from Mother’s work in education and her assistance to the poor. She was a channel of God’s love to all she met and her work is continued through the Sisters of OLS. In October of 1947, the Congregation moved beyond the borders of Italy and opened its first mission in Louisiana. Today, the sisters continue to work in educating the young and the poor in six countries around the world (Italy, U.S., Mexico, Brazil, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe).

United with Mary, Our Lady of Sorrows at the foot of the cross, they are consecrated totally to Jesus crucified. Their life consists of communal prayer with Liturgy of Hours, daily Mass, daily recitation of the rosary, spiritual reading, meditation and weekly adoration. Following in the footsteps of their foundress and rooted in Christ, Crucified and Risen, they continue weaving their history to make the gift of God present to all.

Young women seeking to follow Christ as a Sister of Our Lady of Sorrows are invited to retreats offered several times a year. The retreats provide young women with an opportunity to spend time in prayer and to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ. The retreats offer opportunities for Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Confessions, Divine Office, silence, personal prayer and sharing with others who seek to know and love God in a radical way. For more information on their upcoming retreats, please visit their website – www.ols.org, or contact: Sister Fatima Aphiri, OLS; (337) 322 9983, or vocations@ols.org.

by Sr. Fatima Aphiri, OLS and Fr. Matthew Long

NEWS

MONEY SCHOOL HELPS FAMILIES Catholic Daughters Celebrating 100 years of community service Attain Financial Stability Catholic Charities ministry making big impact

Catholic Charities beneficiary with Carl Piehl from the Money School.

T

here are many hard working folks who sometimes find themselves in very difficult financial situations. One such person is Yolanda. She and her husband have worked hard all their lives and now are retired school teachers living on a small fixed income. After making payments for 25 years on their home in Shreveport, they got behind and were being threatened with foreclosure. Yolanda couldn’t believe that after all those years of making payments they might still lose their home. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she described how she and her husband had raised their family there. She was desperate after trying to work with the mortgage company to no avail. Imagine her frustration when she would receive letters threatening foreclosure and no one at the mortgage company would respond to her pleas for help.

She called Catholic Charities hoping there might be some assistance available to get caught up on her payments. Fortunately their Emergency Assistance Department had the expertise and willingness to intervene on her behalf and immediately went to work. The mortgage company was promptly notified that Catholic Charities was representing this individual in acquiring a loan modification program and an immediate response was required.

The mortgage company was much more compliant with the agency.

The loan modification was processed and financial assistance was given to bring the loan current. Yolanda and her husband were tremendously relieved that they were no longer in danger of losing their home. She was determined to learn how she could avoid financial pitfalls in the future.

Yolanda attended the Money School financial education class offered by Catholic Charities and now feels she has the knowledge and tools to prevent such problems from reoccurring. Many of our citizens are living on a financial razor’s edge with little or no money in savings and no concrete plan of action for avoiding the disastrous consequences of job loss or other unexpected financial difficulties.

Financial education through the Money School can be of great benefit to those who are willing to learn how to help themselves.

The Money School class and the financial coaching offered by Catholic Charities provides a credible long term solution. These services are free of charge as part of their mission to bring Christ’s message of love to the poor and vulnerable by providing quality social services to people without discrimination and in accordance with Catholic social teachings and professional standards.

Visit our website at www.ccshpt.org to learn more.

by Carl Piehl, Catholic Charities Money School

Catholic Daughter officers with Bishop Duca and local priests at their 100th anniversary Mass at St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport.

T

he Court Castile 197 in Shreveport, LA celebrated 100 years of service to Catholic Daughters of the Americas on April 13 at St. Mary of the Pines Church in Shreveport. There was a large group to support the CDA, including celebrants Bishop Michael Duca, State Chaplain Msgr. Carson LaCaze, Court Chaplain Fr. Andre McGrath, OFM, Msgr. Earl Provenza, Fr. Francis Kamau, FMH and Fr. Michael Thang’wa, FMH. Also in attendance were Catholic Daughters state officers and Court Castile Officers Barbara Hall, Myrtle Scarlato, Letitia Miles, Robin Parker and Regina Neucere.

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas is the largest Catholic Women’s organization in the United States and has courts in five U.S. territories and in Mexico. Their motto is “Unity & Charity.”

The first CDA meeting in north Louisiana took place in 1913 in what was then known as the Knights of Columbus Hall in the Filliquer Building on Market Street in Shreveport, LA. Their charter was granted on March 13, 1913. The charter members worked hard to share their work and grow their membership. The first chaplain of Court Castille 197 was Fr. Francis Bertels.

The legacy of the Catholic Daughters continues today with a group of active women who work hard to help others on the local, state and national levels.

National Projects supported by each court are Disaster Relief, Habitat for Humanity, Holy Cross Family Rosary, Smile Train (Cleft Palate surgeries) and SOAR (Support for Our Aging Clergy). The CDA also supports several state projects including Project Rainbow, State Seminary Fund and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. CDA Kid provides assistance for disabled children in need. Each court “adopts” a deserving child for one year and provides for the special needs of that child.

In addition to their national and state projects, the Court Castille supports many local projects including noon meals for Grace Home caregivers and families of patients, as well as assisting with birthday parties for residents at Heritage Manor Nursing Home Stratmore. Twice a year they hold a bake sale at Holy Trinity Church and all proceeds benefit local seminarians.

Court Castile 197 meets the second Sunday of the month at the Catholic Center. They meet nine times a year. If you are a Catholic woman looking for a way to serve your Church and community, please consider joining this historic organization.

Contact Regent Barbara Hall at 318-865-2768.

by Barbara Hall, Regent of Court Castille 197 June 2013 15

NEWS

New Principal for Our Catholic Community Center Lady of Fatima School Hosts After School Program Dr. Carynn Wiggins to lead school

S

r. Carol Shively, diocesan Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce the successful hiring of a new principal for Our Lady of Fatima School.

Monroe native Dr. Carynn Wiggins will Dr. Carynn Wiggins is the fill the role new principal of Our Lady of beginning July Fatima School 1, 2013. “We are blessed to have an individual with this talent level committed to serving the wonderful students and parents of Our Lady of Fatima School,” comments Sr. Carol.

“Everyone associated with the school is excited to welcome Dr. Wiggins and we look forward to her leadership in the coming school year.”

A Neville product, Dr. Wiggins received her undergraduate degrees in Early Childhood Education from the University of Louisiana at Monroe before attending Louisiana Tech for her post graduate work and eventual Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. The final 11 years of her career has been spent as the Director/ Principal at A. E. Phillips Lab School in Ruston before retiring in May of last year. She is thrilled at the prospect of ending her short retirement and taking the principal’s position at Our Lady of Fatima School. “I’m ready to go back to being with children and excited at the opportunities for meaningful educational ministry. There is a certain satisfaction to knowing that these young people will succeed because of what we can bring into their lives.”

Bishop Michael G. Duca is also excited about this positive addition to the diocesan school system. “Our overall goal remains quality,” commented Bishop Duca. “Our educational program at Our Lady of Fatima is unique and successful, and I feel more than confident that Dr. Wiggins will only increase our ability to positively affect the lives of young people and their families.”

by John Mark Willcox, Director of Development 16 Catholic Connection

Summer educational opportunity for Cedar Grove students

T

o be evangelizing Catholics we need to be disciples for ourselves, renewing our faith in God, and disciples for others by being witnesses to our faith and reaching out in service.

As disciples we can give life and breath to the teachings of Jesus Christ,“to love one another as I have loved you.”

The community of St. Catherine of Siena began this discipleship many years ago to serve the Cedar Grove Community. The goal of the outreach program was to help provide for the needs of the community by fostering healthy family relationships, enhancing human dignity, encouraging more diligent civic responsibility and promoting a sense of pride in the community. For many years their main focus was administering to the children of the area through After School and Summer Camp Enrichment programs.

The St. Catherine Community Center continues sponsoring the summer enrichment camp.

The Summer Day Camp 2013 is for children from Kindergarten through 8th grade. It is an eight week program from June 3 through July 26, 2013, Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It is not intended as a day care, but an enrichment program. Summer camp combines fun and learning through a variety of age appropriate experiences in a safe and Christian environment. Children receive academic skill building, cultural enrichment and recreational activities including language and fine arts, math, science, crafts, physical fitness, creative writing, praise dance, drill team and

music instructed by Caddo/Bossier Parish and Head Start teachers, paraprofessionals and college students.

Through a program established by the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana, the children are provided breakfast, lunch and snacks on a daily basis. What summer camp would not include field trips to city parks, libraries, art galleries, museums and the movie theatre? There are also family fun days and celebrations involving parades, cookouts and entertainment by the students.

All of this is made possible through the generosity of patrons of the Community Center, grants from local and state organizations and the Diocese of Shreveport. A nominal tuition is charged, however tuition assistance is available.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Matthew 5:8. By becoming a part of this ministry we see and experience God’s love in the people of the Cedar Grove neighborhood in service to God and others through joyful giving of ourselves. Here we fully realize the blessings that are ours and the beauty of creation by acts of charity, mercy and justice.

If you would like to become a friend of the St. Catherine Community Center or give a scholarship to a child for the summer camp, please contact the Center at 318-865-9817.

Please consider becoming part of the wonderful work that a small group of dedicated teachers, staff and volunteers is doing.

by Randy G. Tiller, Director of Mission Effectiveness

New Initiatives for Catechesis Office Scouts Make Educational programs introduced for 2013-2014 Repairs in Carmel

T

he Office of Catechesis is celebrating its one year anniversary. The last year has been a whirlwind of listening sessions with clergy and parish catechetical leaders; regional and parish catechist trainings, development of an advisory council, a vision committee for Greco Institute, meeting with regional directors, visiting parishes and Living the Eucharist!

With the help of the advisory council, Ginger Broussard and Bishop Duca, we have made great progress towards elevating and fostering catechesis for all ages. Recently, the advisory council presented a mission statement to the bishop which was approved: The catechetical mission of the Catholic Diocese of Shreveport, in communion with the bishop, is to hand on the teachings of the Church (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:23) revealed through Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, inspiring a lived Faith in Jesus Christ and His Church. This faith, lived as members of the Body of Christ, directs the heart towards God, fosters participation in the Liturgy, inspires apostolic activity and nurtures a life completely in accord with the Spirit of Christ (cf. RCIA 78).

With clarity of our mission, I am happy to present several initiatives for 2013-14.

• Curricular Goals for Children’s Formation in Parishes and Schools: This resource will serve as a summary of prayers and key concepts for each grade level.

Catechists will receive an expanded copy to aid in emphasizing key components. Parents will receive an abridged version to assist in their role as the primary educators of faith.

• Catechetical Fair: Open the Door of Faith: We will hold the first Catechetical Fairs August 17 (Ruston) and August 24 (Shreveport). The fairs will gather primary and middle school catechists and youth ministry leaders to celebrate the ministry of catechesis, introduce the Curricular Goals and offer skill building by matching specific catechetical strategies with curricular goals.

The catechists and youth ministry leaders will leave the day with nine specific strategies, confidence in Jesus’ call to ministry and a

network of other catechists to support them.

• Certificate in Lifelong Catechesis or Youth Ministry Studies program: Working with the Center for Ministry Development, the diocese will sponsor this certificate program. The two-year, eight weekend process is open to catechists of all ages and youth ministry leaders. This program is $50 per weekend. To learn more go to http:// www.dioshpt.org/catechetics/catechetics.html • Greco Institute/Adult Faith Formation: This summer, formation opportunities offered through the Greco Institute will undergo refreshment. New offerings, instructors and a variety of opportunities will be introduced.

• After the New Testament, A Catholic Biblical School Offering: Partnering with the diocese, the School of Ministry at the University of Dallas will be offering this one year course at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. The class will meet monthly September 2013 through May 2014, allowing students to grow in a deeper relationship with God while studying Church history with instructor Jim McGill. This is a non-credit course with assigned readings but no homework, papers or tests!

Financial assistance is available in two ways: for those directly involved in parish ministry, the Office of Catechesis will offer financial assistance (Shelly Bole – sbole@dioshpt. org or 318-219-7302); those taking the course for their own edification may contact the School of Ministry (Luisa Salomon – lsalomon@udallas.edu or 972-721-4118).

For more information go to http://udallas. edu/ministry/continuinged/aff/shreveport/ index.html#simple1. A short informational meeting will be held June 29 at 10:30 a.m. at the Catholic Center.

In addition to these offerings, I will continue to serve parishes in lifelong catechesis. Thank you for your prayers and support this first year – the Holy Spirit has been very active and the faith of the good people of our diocese is providing the fuel!

by Shelly Bole, Director of Catechesis

Local Eagle Scouts help out at historic Rock Chapel

T

he historic Rock Chapel in Carmel was the beneficiary of a recent Eagle Scout project. Boy scouts from Shreveport’s BSA Troop 18 refurbished the Stations of the Cross there, repaired rotted benches and cleared out dead vegetation. Bishop Michael Duca joined the gathering and blessed the Stations of the Cross. Bishop Duca commented on the Rock Chapel’s peaceful setting and his interest in trying to preserve this Catholic treasure.

Local Mansfield residents who helped with the work-day included Vance and LaJuana Shaver, James Foshee and Eugenia and Diana Manning. The Shavers have steadfastly cared for Rock Chapel for many years and Eugenia Manning was the artist who restored the interior artwork after years of neglect and vandalism. Their labor has resulted in a well-loved gem of our diocese.

Originally built in 1891 by Carmelite monks, the Rock Chapel was part of their larger monastery. Stones from the surrounding area were used in the construction and were held in place with a mud plaster. After a fire in 1904, all that survived of the monastery was the Rock Chapel.

Matthew Flanagan became aware of the need for some improvements around the grounds after a visit to the Rock Chapel. His interest turned into an Eagle Scout project proposal, now completed with the help of fellow scouts and friends.

The Shavers will graciously open the locked gate to groups or individuals who are interested in visiting the Rock Chapel. Call LaJuana at 318-872-3468.

by Susan Flanagan June 2013 17

HISPANIC corner

L

por Pablo Ortega

Parroquia de Santo Tomas de Aquino

La Razón y La Fe

a razón es la facultad en la cual el ser humano es capaz de identificar conceptos, cuestionarlos, encontrar coherencia o contradicción entre ellos y así deducir lo que conocemos como verdad. Muchas veces la fe y la razón parecen ser temas de contradicción.

Sabemos de tantos científicos que son ateos, y de ateos que no son científicos que atacan arduamente la Iglesia Católica. Sin embargo la Iglesia Católica ama la razón, nunca compromete la razón en la fe impartieron en la Diócesis en nuestras creencias. Más bien es de Shreveport clases abiertas para fuerte promotora de la verdad en la el público en general. Estas clases razón. Claro ejemplo lo encontramos terminarán el 1ero de junio. en La virgen María que cuando fue Durante las clases, varias confrontada con la noticia del ángel enseñanzas dejaron con la boca Gabriel que iba a ser mama respondió abierta al grupo, otras marcaron “¿Cómo será esto, pues no tengo nuestra forma de pensar y actuar relaciones con ningún hombre?” (Lc Pablo Ortega pero estas reforzaron nuestra Fe a 1:34). Tras la respuesta del ángel ella base del razonamiento. Ahí también nos dimos razonó y tomó en su corazón lo que se le había cuenta que hay mucho que aprender, hay mucho dicho y lo convirtió en verdad. que estudiar y mucho que razonar. Es el deseo La iglesia católica desarrolló el método científico y las leyes de evidencia que ahora rigen de nuestra Diócesis que la razón sea difundida las ramas de ingeniería, física, química y muchas con programas como este para así poder llegar a la verdad. más. Fundó también el sistema universitario En mayo del 2013, con la ayuda de Dios, me como se conoce ahora y actualmente educa gradué de ingeniero químico de Louisiana Tech a más personas que ninguna otra institución University y tengo que decir que en la razón se educativa o religiosa en el mundo; todo esto en encuentra a Dios. El tratar de entender procesos busca de la verdad por medio de la razón. químicos, físicos y matemáticos no lleva a nada La Diócesis de Shreveport en su esfuerzo por promover la razón en la fe estableció “La Escuela si no se trata primero de conocer al autor de todos esos procesos, Dios mismo. de Ministerios”. Durante cuatro años, expertos Bossier City: Christ the King Church 425 McCormick St. Bossier City Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Domingo 3:00 p.m.

Lunes 7:00 p.m.

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

Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115

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

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

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

Calendario del Mes de Junio y Julio 1º. Junio: Clase de Biblia: Nuevo Testamento parte II. Reconocimiento por 4 Años de estudio para coordinadores(as) del Ministerio Hispano en las parroquias y para otros estudiantes que perseveraron en este programa. Ahora tienen el reconocimiento, formación y apoyo para desarrollar programas en sus parroquias.

Misa de Clausura y Graduacion, Centro Católico 5:00 p.m. “¡Al Que Madruga Dios lo Ayuda!” Es su programa de radio del Ministerio Hispano Católico.

Todos los Domingos a las 9:00 am y 9:00 pm por la Invasora 92.1 FM

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

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

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

Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

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

across the In Brazil, pope to meet slumdwellers, politicians, world's youth

by Catholic News Service

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis will meet slum-dwellers and powerful politicians, pay homage at a Marian shrine and celebrate with participants at World Youth Day when he visits Brazil in late July. The Argentine pope’s first international trip, which will take him to his native Latin America, was planned under his predecessor, retired Pope Benedict XVI. Pope Francis will fly to Rio de Janeiro July 22 and spend his six-day visit in or around the city, except for half a day in Aparecida, an hour and 15 minutes to the west by helicopter, where he will pray in the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida, Brazil’s principal patron saint. In Rio, the pope will visit a hospital and a notorious “favela” slum, meet Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff, Latin American bishops and juvenile offenders, and address what the Vatican’s official itinerary describes

Residents talk in front of chapel in slum area of Rio de Janeiro, where Pope Francis is expected to visit in July. (CNS photo/Ricardo Moraes, Reuters)

as the “ruling class of Brazil.” The largest part of Pope Francis’ time will be devoted to World Youth Day events, starting with a welcome ceremony on Rio’s Copacabana beach -- where he will later lead the Stations of the Cross -- and culminating in an outdoor Mass 30 miles away in Guaratiba.

Pope Francis welcomes retired Pope Benedict back to Vatican

by Catholic News Service

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- For the first time in history, the Vatican is home to a pope and a retired pope.

Pope Francis welcomed his predecessor, retired Pope Benedict XVI, to the Vatican May 2 outside the convent remodeled for the 86-year-old retired pontiff and five aides. Pope Francis and Pope Benedict entered the convent’s chapel together “for a brief moment of prayer,” said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman.

Pope Benedict had been staying at the papal summer villa in Castel Gandolfo since retiring Feb. 28. Pope Francis traveled to the villa 10 days after his election to visit, pray and have lunch with Pope Benedict; the new pope also has telephoned his predecessor on at least two occasions. In response to questions about the fact that Pope Benedict seemed to be much frailer than he was two months ago, Father Lombardi told reporters, “He’s an elderly man, weakened by age, but

Retired Pope Benedict XVI greets Pope Francis at the Vatican May 2. (CNS photo/L'Ossevatore Romano via Reuters)

he is not suffering from any illness.” In the last year of his pontificate, Pope Benedict was seen walking with a cane on more and more public occasions; after Pope Benedict retired, Father Lombardi confirmed that he had had a pacemaker inserted before becoming pope in 2005 and had undergone a brief procedure in November to replace the battery.

Catholic News Service

VAtICAN news & notes • Marking 40 years of ecumenical dialogue, Pope Francis told the leader of 10 million Coptic Orthodox that their churches are united by an “ecumenism of suffering. Just as the blood of the martyrs was a seed of strength and fertility for the Church, so too the sharing of daily sufferings can become an effective instrument of unity,” Pope Francis told Pope Tawadros II May 10.

• Pope Francis told 800 superiors of women’s orders from around the world that the Catholic Church needs religious women and that religious women need to be in harmony with the faith and teachings of the Church.

“What would the church be without you?” the pope told the women May 8. “It would be missing maternity, affection, tenderness and a mother's intuition.”

• In an effort to strengthen its ability to fight money laundering and the financing of terrorism, the Vatican signed an agreement with the United States to share information regarding suspect financial transactions. The Vatican’s Financial Information Authority signed a “Memorandum of Understanding” in Washington D.C. May 7 with the U.S. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury that investigates potential illegalities within the U.S. financial system and cooperates with similar agencies in other countries.

• Pope Francis has named Auxiliary Bishop Mark J. Seitz of Dallas as bishop of El Paso, TX. The appointment was announced May 6 in Washington

by Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, apostolic nuncio to the United States.

Bishop Seitz, 59, succeeds Bishop Armando Ochoa, who was named bishop of Fresno, CA, in December 2011.

June 2013 19

around the DIOCESE

1

1

2

Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Shreveport participated in “Living the Eucharist.” Group members had perfect attendance during the six weeks of meeting. Liz, the parish coordinator, gave the women a monstrance pin with rosary hanging from it and the men received a monstrance tie tack pin. She also gave them to all the Living the Eucharist small group leaders. Sacred Heart ended with a Living the Eucharist Retreat on April 27. The retreat was both multicultural and uplifting.

3

2 3

The parishioners of St. Jude Church joined together for a Living Rosary on Sunday, May 5. This was a celebration of the progress on the future home of St. Jude Church as well as a testimonial of their unity as a parish and commitment to the community.

The 21st Annual Western Deanery Red Mass was held Friday, May 3 at Holy Trinity Church in downtown Shreveport. The annual ecumenical event hosted by the Red Mass Society honors all lawyers, judges and court officials and officially opens the judicial year.

At this year’s Mass, Fr. Rothell Price was the homilist and Bishop Michael Duca was the principal celebrant. Methodist pastor Pat Day and Jewish Rabbi Jana DeBenedetti joined the priests in their prayers. The Red Mass this year was celebrated in honor of Providence House.

4 5 20 Catholic Connection

4 5

Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, SHreveport Life Teen youth had a blast at Encounter Faith 2013 at the Catholic Center and look forward to their next adventure at COVECREST in Tiger and Hiawasse, GA for summer camp!

A Groundbreaking and Blessing of the Soil was held on April 17 for the new St. Francis Community Health Center on the corner of Tower and Fulton in Monroe. In opening remarks, Sr. Kathleen Cain, FMOL Provincial, said, “This new site marks a milestone in St. Francis’ 100 years of extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to those most in need, one that reflects our continued commitment to our community and to our mission.” Services at this new location will include: speech, physical and occupational therapy, cardiac rehab, radiology, laboratory, pharmacy, occupational medicine, convenience clinic, Diabetes and Nutrition Center and physician offices.

6 6

7

Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church presented certificates to those in the parish who made the honor roll for the third nine weeks. Pictured (l to r): Sydni Henson, LeAsia Bailey, Jacoby Bailey, Adrian Green, Adriane Aytone, Fr. Andre McGrath, Lyndon Green, Edward Lee, Krisha Aytone, Sean Woodfork, Jordan Joshua and coordinators Tim Ford and Ramona Green.

7

Catholics from across the Diocese of Shreveport have been meeting together, taking classes and studying through a program sponsored by the Diocese of Shreveport and the University of Dallas. This four year program is coming to a close and the students gathered together at the Catholic Center for one of their final classes on May 4.

8

The two remaining Daughters of the Cross Sisters, Sr. Maria Smith and Sr. Lucy Scallan, moved to Montclair Park Assisted Living on E. Kings Hwy in Shreveport. Bishop Duca ate lunch with Sr. Maria to see if there was anything he or his staff could do. She appreciated his kindness and interest in helping them to close the convent and move to an assisted living. Sr. Sharon Rambin was so instrumental in the success of closing a convent that has been in Louisiana since 1855. Both sisters would love to hear from any of their former students, families and friends. Sr. Maria: 318-797-3340; Sr. Lucy: 318-795-0477.

9 10

8

Parish School of Religion children at St. Joseph Church in Zwolle received Perfect Attendance awards from their teacher Luci Parrie at the end of their classes. Pictured: Jordyn Tramel with her award.

9

On April 10, The EDGE Middle School Youth Group of St. Joseph Church in Shreveport gathered in the kitchen to assemble 70 tacos and all the trimmings to take to the clients at the Hope House. Hope House is a day shelter where the hungry and homeless come to shower, wash clothes and check their mail. As the group left St. Joseph, the sky opened up and the rain began. When they arrived at Hope House, the hungry women and men were waiting inside. The middleschoolers carried the trays of food onto the porch and then joined the clients in a prayer of thanksgiving and blessing. The group distributed the food and drinks and watched as the clients walked out into the pouring rain to eat and sleep in circumstances unfamiliar to the young people.

10 June 2013 21

upcoming EVENTS June 6: Theology on Tap: Battle of the Sexes Theology on Tap is an opportunity for young adults, ages 20 - 39, to join together over food and drinks and learn more about and discuss their Catholic faith. Nia and Carl Mitchell will speak on June 6, at 7:00 p.m. at O’Brien’s Irish Pub on the Bossier City Boardwalk about the Battle of the Sexes. Please join us!

June 8: “What a Wondrous Love is This” Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Retreat This retreat will be led by Office of Worship Director Dianne Rachal at the Catholic Center from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This event is free. To register, contact Brandy Wood at 318-868-4441, or bwood@ dioshpt.org.

June 20: Theology on Tap: God’s Gift of Intimacy in Marriage Brian and Kristy Simmons will speak on June 20, at 7:00 p.m. at O’Brien’s Irish Pub on the Bossier City Boardwalk about God's Gift of Intimacy in Marriage. Please join us!

July 9: Theology on Tap: Q&A Session About the Catholic Faith Fr. Matthew Long will answer questions on the Catholic Faith on July 9, at 7:00 p.m. at O’Brien’s Irish Pub on the Bossier City Boardwalk. Please join us!

July 13: RCIA Vision of Initiation Ministry Conference This conference introduces

the vision and practice of adult initiation for all pastoral ministers in relation to: evangelization, pastoral formation, roles in the initiation process and connections between Liturgy and Catechesis. The event is from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. Registration is $40 and includes lunch. To register, contact Dianne Rachal at 318-868-4441, or drachal@dioshpt.org.

July 23: Natural Family Planning - Ladies Social & Information Night Have questions about NFP? Want to learn more? Who’s invited? Married, engaged and single ladies, including those who know a little, next to nothing, or those who want a refresher on NFP. Questions will be answered by trained instructors. The evening will take place at St. Joseph Family Life Center in Shreveport at 211 Atlantic Ave. and begins at 6:30 pm. RSVP by July 18 to familylife@saintjosephshreveport.org; or call Dotye Sue at 318-841-8208.

July 25: Theology on Tap: Free Love - A True Gift of Oneself David and Lauren Merrick will speak on July 25, at 7:00 p.m. at O’Brien’s Irish Pub on the Bossier City Boardwalk about Free Love: A Gift of Oneself. Please join us!

September 1-12: Pilgrimages to the Shrines of Mary Visit the most well-known shrines dedicated to Mary on a pilgrimage to

Fatima, Lourdes and Paris led by Fr. David Richter, pastor of Jesus the Good Shepherd Church in Monroe. After visiting the site of the Eucharistic Miracle in Santarem, we will go to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, where the body of the Apostle St. James lies beneath the cathedral altar. There will be a tour in the historical city of Burgos the next day, then travel to Lourdes where St. Bernadette was born and where she lived during the Appartitions. We will travel to Nevers where the body of St. Bernadette is perfectly preserved in her convent. Finally, we arrive in Paris, visit the famous Sacred Heart Basilica and the convent where Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal appeared.

For more information on this pilgrimage, contact John Morris at 318-325-3741.

January 4-14: Pilgrimage to the Holy Land You are invited to participate in a pilgrimage to the Holy Land from Jan. 4, to Jan. 14, 2014. Among the sites that the group will visit are Capernaum, Nazareth, Cana in Galilee, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Jordan River, Bethlehem, Bethany, Mount Carmel, the Via Dolorosa, Mt. Tabor (the site of the Transfiguration) and the area where the dead sea scrolls were discovered. The tour guide in the Holy Land will be Fr. Peter Vasko, OFM. Please call Fr. Mark Watson (318) 366-7003, Fr. Matthew Long (318) 868-4441 or Mr. John Morris (318) 325-3741 for more information.

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

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

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

Please send monthly reminders to:

$800 $750 $650 $500

$400 $350 $300 $250

At this time I / we are enclosing:

$200 $150 $100 $_______

$_____________

Print Name________________________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________________________

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

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

calendar JUNE 1 - Mission Possible Catholic Boys Adventure Weekend St. Justin, martyr JUNE 2 - Confirmation, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, Shreveport, 9am The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)

june & july 2013 JULY 1 - Blessed Junipero Serra, priest JULY 3 - St. Thomas, apostle JULY 4 - Independence Day Catholic Center Closed

JUNE 3 - St. Charles Lwanga & companions,martyrs

JULY 5 - St. Anthony Zaccaria, priest; St. Elizabeth of Portugal

JUNE 5 - Confirmation, St. Joseph Church, Zwolle, 6pm St. Boniface, bishop & martyr

JULY 6 - St. Maria Goretti, virgin & martyr

JUNE 6 - Theology on Tap, O'Brien's Irish Pub at the Boardwalk, Bossier City, 7pm St. Norbert, bishop JUNE 7 - The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus JUNE 8 - Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Retreat, Catholic Center, 9am The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary JUNE 10 - United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Meeting, San Diego, CA (through June 15) JUNE 11 - St. Barnabas, apostle JUNE 13 - St. Anthony of Padua, priest & doctor of the Church JUNE 16 - Father's Day 26th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Diocese of Shreveport JUNE 18 - Fr. Rothell Price & Fr. John Pardue's 25th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood JUNE 19 - St. Romuald, abbot JUNE 20 - Theology on Tap, O'Brien's Irish Pub at the Boardwalk, Bossier City, 7pm JUNE 21 - St. Aloysius Gonzaga, religious JUNE 22 - Installation of Diaconate Candidates to the Order of Acolyte, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe 4:30pm St. Paulinus of Nola, bishop; Sts. John Fisher, bishop & Thomas More, martyrs JUNE 24 - Diocesan Finance Council Meeting, Catholic Center, 12pm The Nativity of St. John the Baptist

JULY 9 - St. Augustine Zhao Rong, priest, & companions, martyrs JULY 11 - Theology on Tap, O'Brien's Irish Pub at the Boardwalk, Bossier City, 7pm St. Benedict, abbot JULY 12 - Deadline for the August Catholic Connection JULY 13 - RCIA Vision of Initiation Ministry Conference, Catholic Center, 8am St. Henry JULY 15 - St. Bonaventure, bishop & doctor of the Church JULY 16 - Our Lady of Mount Carmel JULY 18 - St. Camillus de Lellis, priest JULY 20 - St. Apollinaris, bishop & martyr JULY 22 - St. Mary Magdalene JULY 23 - Natural Family Planning Ladies Information Night, St. Joseph Family Life Center, 6:30pm St. Bridget, religious JULY 24- St. Sharbel Makhluf, priest JULY 25 - Theology on Tap, O'Brien's Irish Pub at the Boardwalk, Bossier City, 7pm St. James, apostle JULY 26 - Sts. Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary JULY 29 - St. Martha JULY 30 - St. Peter Chrysologus, bishop & doctor of the Church JULY 31 - St. Ignatius of Loyola, priest

JUNE 25 - 25th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood Mass in honor of Fr. Rothell Price and Fr. John Pardue, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 6pm JUNE 27 - St. Cyril of Alexandria, bishop & doctor of the Church JUNE 28 - St. Irenaeus, bishop & martyr JUNE 29 - 2nd Collection: Peter's Pence Sts. Peter and Paul, apostles JUNE 30 - 2nd Collection: Peter's Pence

JUNE 22 / Installation of Diaconate Candidates to the Order of Acolyte / 4:30PM June 2013 23

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

â&#x20AC;˘

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Photo of the month by John Mark Willcox

On May 4 a dedication and blessing of a monument to the unborn depicting the Holy Family was held at the Catholic Center by the Diocesan Pro-Life Committee and presided over by Very Rev. Rothell Price. Mr. Robert Pedemonti donated the monument.

24 Catholic Connection