Catholic Connection August 2011

VOL. 21, NO.1 AUGUST 2011

Catholic Schools Continue to Soar in the Diocese of Shreveport

FROM THE CHANCELLOR

by Jessica Rinaudo

Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Regular Contributors Bishop Michael Duca Jessica Rinaudo Kim Long Christine Rivers Fr. Rothell Price Roxie Tabor Rosalba Quiroz Mike Van Vranken Dianne Rachal John Mark Willcox Featured Contributors Sarah Delaney Debby Smith Jean Dresley John Thavis Clary Nash Randy Tiller Kevin Nolten John Vining Sr. Carol Shively Linda Webster Editorial Board Dianne Rachal Cathy Cobb Christine Rivers Rev. Charles Glorioso John Mark Willcox Kim Long Kelly Phelan Powell The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Service Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport. Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

For a free subscription, address changes or article submissions: EMAIL: jrinaudo@dioshpt.org WRITE: C atholic Connection The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 CALL: 318-868-4441

OR 800-256-1542 FAX: 318-868-4609 WEBSITE: www.thecatholicconnection.org The Catholic Connection is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

Our Diocese is recognized by the Board of Immigration Appeals as a Non-Profit Organization capable of giving Immigration Legal Advice. We offer Immigration Professional Services to LowIncome Families. To find out if you or someone you know qualifies for an Immigration benefit, please contact Mrs. Rosalba Quiroz at 1-800256-1542, ext. 265 or 318-219-7265 or email rquiroz@dioshpt.org

Fr. David Richter

Fr. Mark Watson

Fr. Zacharias Prakuzhy

Appointments:

The following clergy appointments, effective July 1, 2011:

1) Father David T. Richter, Pastor of Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish in Monroe, and continuing as Director of Vocations.

2) Father Mark Watson, Pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Lake Providence, and Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Oak Grove.

3) Father Zacharias Prakuzhy, CMI, two months sabbatical and visit in India.

Calendar:

August 15: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (not a holy day of obligation this year).

SLATTERY LIBRARY REOPENS

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e are pleased to announce that the Slattery Library is now open again. The librarian is available 9:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. We also have volunteers available to assist you from 10:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Mondays and Wednesdays. If you need to come when the library is closed, the Catholic Center receptionist will be happy to open it for you. We invite you to come by when you can and see our new acquisitions. We are in the process of rearranging the library to a more user friendly atmosphere.

Some of our new titles include: Sing to the Lord and Cantemos al Senor, Talking with God (Fenelon), The Love Chapter (St. John Chrysostom), Handbook on Critical Life Issues (John Leies, SM), UnPlanned

| by Debby Smith

(Abby Johnson), The Practice of the Presence of God (Bro. Lawrence), The Archbishop Wore Combat Boots (Archbishop Philip Hannan), et al.

New videos include: Discovering Christian Classics, DVDs on the subjects of death, Christianity, the Sacraments, Mary and the saints, and several “books on DVD” by Nouwen, USCCB, et al.

Our volunteers have been busy reorganizing our educational Resource Center. All of our educational materials have been updated to agree with the catechism conformity listing of the U.S. Bishops. We also have new titles in the areas of Baptism, Marriage, Youth education and Hispanic materials.

Thank you for your continued support of the Slattery Library. We look forward to seeing you again.

Please come and “check us out!”

On the cover: St. John Berchmans students read in the school libray. Back row L to R: Jessica Spivey (5th grade), McKala Meziere (5th grade). Front row L to R: Doug Hearne (4th grade), Jorja Spivey (1st grade), Zach DeCuir (1st grade).

August 2011

Contents

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From the Chancellor

by Christine Rivers...........................................................2 Slattery Library Reopens

by Debby Smith...............................................................2 Bishop Michael Duca’s August 2011 Schedule.....................3 Bishop’s Reflection

by Most Reverend Michael G. Duca................................4-5

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St. John Berchmans Students Win at National Competition.... 15 25th Anniversary Celebration Brought Diocese Together

by Rosalba Quiroz, Dianne Rachal, Randy Tiller and John Vining.................................................................. 16 Pope Launches Vatican Web Portal, Tweets the News

by Sarah Delaney and John Thavis.................................... 17 Vocations Office Launches New Website................................. 17

Celebrating the Fourth at St. Catherine’s Community Center

by Randy Tiller.................................................................6

Hispanic Corner

by Rosalba Quiroz........................................................... 18

A Network of Prayers

by Kim Long....................................................................... 7

Diaconate: The Rite of Candidacy

by Deacon Clary Nash....................................................... 19

Catholic Charities Awarded Grant for Immigration Center

by Jean Dresley...............................................................7

Theology on Tap for Young Adults

by Kevin Nolten...............................................................19

Small Parish Profile: Blessed Sacrament Church, Ringgold

by Linda Webster.............................................................8

Michael and Sherry Kenney Retire

by Kevin Nolten...............................................................19

Second Collections

by Fr. Rothell Price..........................................................9

Around the Diocese........................................................... 20-21

Archbishop Chaput Moves to Philadelphia

by Lou Baldwin............................................................... 10 Catholic Schools Continue to Soar

by Sr. Carol Shively.................................................... 11-14 Meet the Department: Catholic Schools................................... 15

Pro-Life News

by Roxie Tabor....................................................................... 21 Upcoming Events .................................................................. 22 August 2011 Calendars.......................................................... 23 25th Anniversary Photos............................................................24

Bishop Michael Duca’s August Schedule AUGUST 1 Catholic Charities of Shreveport Membership Board meeting; Catholic Center

AUGUST 13 Magnificat Women’s Group & Luncheon; St. Jude Church, Bossier City; 10:30 a.m.

AUGUST 2 Priests Retirement Committee Meeting; Catholic Center

AUGUST 14 Mass; Holy Angels Residential Facility Chapel; 9:30 a.m.

AUGUST 7 Mass; Holy Angels Residential Facility Chapel; 9:30 a.m.

AUGUST 14 Knights of St. Gregory the Great Mass; Holy Trinity Church, Shreveport; 12:00 p.m.

AUGUST 7 Call to Candidacy (Deacon Aspirants); Cathedral of St. John Berchmans; 2:00 p.m.

AUGUST 10 Altar Servers Leadership Camp; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans; 11:30 a.m.

AUGUST 17 Opening of School Mass; The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Catholic School & Loyola College Prep; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans; 9:30 a.m.

AUGUST 19 Mass; Our Lady of Sorrows Convent; 5:00 p.m.

AUGUST 19 Barksdale AFB CYO Annual Pool Party; Barksdale AFB; 7:00 PM – 10:00 p.m.

AUGUST 26 Blue Mass; St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 9:30 a.m.

AUGUST 29 Catholic Medical Students Association Luncheon; LSUHSC, Shreveport; 12:00 p.m.

AUGUST 29 - SEPTEMBER 2 Safe Environment Audit; Diocese of Shreveport

La Reflexión del Obispo por Obispo Michael G. Duca

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l escribir el artículo de este mes, será solamente un mes de nuestra emocionante celebración del 25 aniversario en el Centro de Convenciones con el tema de “Cristo Ayer, Hoy y Siempre.” Fue una inspiración el poder celebrar la liturgia de clausura con más de 2,000 fieles de todas partes de la diócesis.

Ese día convoqué a la gente de esta diócesis a participar en un año de reflexión. Les pedí considerar como podemos cumplir nuestra misión como la iglesia de hoy y cómo podemos cumplir esta misión en el futuro considerando los retos de nuestra etapa presente. (Pueden ver la plática completa en nuestra página de internet, http://www.dioshpt. org/25thAnniversary.org) el aspecto más importante de esta renovación es cumplir el llamado de Jesus a EVANGELIZAR como parroquia y como diócesis al mundo que nos rodea. Esta es la manera en que mediremos nuestro éxito ahora y a través de este año de reflexión.

Como he estado recalcando en mis sermones de Confirmación, la madurez espiritual completa y la meta de hombre o mujer católicos no es alcanzar y asegurar solo la salvación personal. Aunque esto es, por supuesto, una meta esencial, estando ya en el camino correcto Jesus también nos llama a salir y proclamar la Buena Nueva. Debería ser un testigo hacia afuera y un deseo de traer a otros a Cristo para que ellos conozcan la libertad, el gozo y la esperanza que viene a todos los que ponen su fe en Cristo y en Su Iglesia. Esta acción de ir y proclamar la Buena Nueva es evangelización y lo hacemos cada vez que damos testimonio de nuestra fe con palabras o acciones de tal manera que otros puedan ver nuestra fe

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católica y sepan que somos discípulos de Cristo.

Yo creo que la evangelización es el trabajo del Espíritu. Si escuchan las recientes enseñanzas de nuestro Santo padre verán que la evangelización es un tema central. En efecto, acaba de crear el Consejo pontífice para la Nueva Evangelización. Esta Nueva Evangelización es un llamado a crear un convincente mensaje que hablará al hombre y mujer modernos.

No hay duda que hoy la Iglesia tiene retos por muchos ángulos.

Somos retados con el escándalo desde dentro, somos agredidos desde fuera porque nuestra cultura define su fundación moral cristiana y el mundo moderno continuamente duda de la misma existencia de Dios. Tenemos dentro de la iglesia muchas voces que llaman al cambio. Algunas llaman que regresemos a los viejos tiempos, otras a cambiar nuestras enseñanzas tradicionales para estar al día con el pensamiento moderno y muchas otras sugerencias entre los dos extremos.

Desafortunadamente en un tiempo en el que necesitamos estar unidos, estos caminos diferentes están causando conflictos y discusiones dentro de la iglesia misma. Uno de los problemas es que vemos mucho hacia adentro y frecuentemente nos distraemos de nuestra misión central, que es ver hacia afuera y proclamar y ser testigos de la Buena Nueva de Jesus.

Es por eso que el Espíritu nos está inspirando a la Nueva Evangelización.

Si mantenemos la meta de evangelización en nuestras pláticas, responderemos a las cuestiones más profundas que enfrenta nuestra iglesia hoy mientas que mantenemos a Cristo y Su voluntad al centro de nuestra renovación. Esta es la manera de verdadera renovación en la Iglesia.

Esto nos será claro cuando nos demos cuenta de que para evangelizar a otros primero debemos responder a la pregunta de “Qué verdaderamente creo/creemos” no lo “que creemos” a lo cual responde el catecismo de la iglesia, sino lo “que verdaderamente creemos” que es respondido a través de nuestras opciones de vida que revelan lo que verdaderamente creemos de nuestra fe Católica como es revelado en las Sagradas Escrituras y las enseñanzas de la Iglesia.

Renovar nuestro compromiso y nuestra fe es el primer paso para cualquier renovación de nuestra parroquia y de nuestra diócesis. Es mi esperanza que encontraremos maneras como diócesis juntos e individualmente en cada parroquia para ayudar en esta renovación. En mis artículos futuros continuaré describiendo nuestro proceso de renovación en la diócesis de Shreveport y consideraré nuestro llamado a evangelizarnos a nosotros mismos y al mundo que nos rodea.

Bishop’s Reflection by Bishop Michael G. Duca

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s I write this month’s article it has been only one month since our exciting 25th anniversary celebration at the Convention Center under the theme of “Christ Yesterday, Today and Forever.” It was inspiring to celebrate the closing Liturgy with over 2,000 parishioners from all parts of the I believe evangelization is the work Church herself. One of the problems diocese. of the Spirit. If you listen to recent is that we are too inward-looking That day I called the people of this teachings of our Holy Father you will see and often distracted from our central diocese to participate in a year of that evangelization is a central theme. mission, which is looking outward to reflection. I asked them to consider In fact he has just created the Pontifical proclaim and witness the Good News of how we are fulfilling our mission as the Council for the New Evangelization.

Jesus.

Church today and how we will fulfill This New Evangelization is a call to This why the Spirit is inspiring us to a this mission in the future considering create a convincing message that will New Evangelization. If we keep the goal the challenges of our present age. speak to the modern man and woman. of evangelization in our discussions, we (You can view the full talk at our 25th There is no doubt that today the will answer the most profound questions Anniversary website, http://www.

Church is challenged from many sides. facing the Church today while keeping dioshpt.org/25thAnniversary) The Christ and His will at the center of most important aspect of this our renewal. It is the way of true renewal is to fulfill Jesus’ call to renewal in the Church.

EVANGELIZE as a parish and There should be an outward This will be clear to us when we as a diocese to the world around realize that to evangelize others us. This is how we will measure witness and desire to bring others we must first answer the question our success now and through to Christ so they will know the of “What do I/we really believe?” this year of reflection.

It is not the “what we believe” that As I have been pointing out in freedom, joy and hope that is answered by the Catechism of my Confirmation sermons, the full spiritual maturity and goal comes from all who put their faith in the Church, but rather the “what we believe” as it is answered of a Catholic man or woman is Christ and His Church. by how our life choices reveal not achieved in simply assuring what we really believe about our our personal salvation. While Catholic faith as it is revealed in We are challenged with scandal from this is, of course, an essential goal, once we are on the right path Christ also calls within, we are assaulted from without as the Scriptures and the teachings of the our culture redefines its Christian moral Church. us to go out and proclaim the Good This personal recommitment and foundation and the modern world News. There should be an outward renewal of our faith is the first step in continually doubts the very existence of witness and desire to bring others to any renewal of our parishes and diocese.

God. We have within the Church many Christ so they will know the freedom, It is my hope that we will find ways as a voices that call for change. Some call us joy and hope that comes from all who diocese both together and as individual put their faith in Christ and His Church. to the good old days, others to change parishes to help in this renewal. In my our traditional teachings to correspond This action of going out to proclaim the future articles I will continue to describe with modern thinking and many other Good News is evangelization, and we our process of renewal in the Diocese suggestions between the two extremes. do it every time we witness our faith of Shreveport and consider our call Unfortunately in a time when we need in words or actions in such ways that to evangelize ourselves and the world to be unified, these differing paths are others can see our Catholic faith and around us. causing strife and argument within the know that we are disciples of Christ.

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Celebrating the Fourth at St. Catherine’s Community Center

by Randy G. Tiller, Director of Mission Effectiveness

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he fireworks, the bands, the parades, the red, white and blue bunting all help make a celebration of our country’s independence all the sweeter and all the more nostalgic.

Yet nothing warms the heart more or tugs at the emotions more than watching a group of primarily young school and pre-school age children offering a program in celebration of the 4th of July.

The parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles along with Bishop Duca and several of the board members of the St. Catherine Community Center were privileged to be invited to “A Salute to Our Troops: No Place Like Home” presented by the children attending the Summer School Program at the St. Catherine Community Center.

Assistant Summer Camp Coordinator Russell Rollins directed and organized the production. A doting grandfather of several of the children trained and worked with four of the older boys in the group, Jamarcus and Jamichael Alexander, Javoris DeBouse and Malig Smith, in the proper presentation and execution of the “posting of the colors”. Summer camper Kiaya Bates led us all in the Pledge of Allegiance before the Campers 2011 Kindergarten, First and Second grade classes belted out “My Country Tis of Thee”.

Other members of the camp led a prayer, a special greeting, an explanation of the occasion and introduced the special guest speaker and parade marshal, Assistant Chief of Police Wayne Smith.

Assitant Cheif Smith talked to the kids about making the right choices throughout their lives and appreciating themselves and the people that have their best interests at heart. Once the colors were retired, Mr. Rollins, teachers, aides and Assitant Cheif Smith led a parade around the neighborhood of Cedar Grove where the Community Center is located.

The St. Catherine Community Center was a special outreach

program started under the direction and guidance of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church. The center is dedicated to fostering healthy family relationships, enhancing human dignity, encouraging more diligent civic responsibility and promoting a sense of pride in the Cedar Grove community.

The Community Center continues to fulfill a vision of Bishop Michael Duca as a catalyst for the residents of Cedar Grove to stop the decline of their neighborhood and to build a healthy, productive community. The Community Center outreach program was established by Bishop William Friend and Rev. William Spencer along with the support of the parishioners of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church.

The community center is entirely supported by financial, in-kind and volunteer support from the Diocese of Shreveport and various other governmental and philanthropic groups.

On a personal basis, anyone can be part of the ongoing outreach mission by becoming a member of the “Friends of St. Catherine Community Center.”

Friends of St. Catherine Community Center accepts donations as a “Neighborhood Friend” to pay for an after school student to be part of the community in an educational and learning environment. Participants also engage in LEAP test preparation and skills improvements. If you wish to contribute or become a part of the Community Center please contact the Coordinator at 318-865-9817 or email Donnie Richardson at donnie. richardson@gmail.com or rtiller@ dioshpt.org.

God bless all the coordinators, teachers, assistants, aides, parents, relatives and especially the children that participated in the patriotic salute on Friday, July 1, 2011.

The Community Center also sponsored a community service project through the Caddo Council on Aging. On July 14th they presented the Council on Aging money for fans that was collected by the children, employees and teachers during the Assistant Chief of Police, Wayne Smith, speaks to the students at St. Catherine Community seven week summer camp.

Center in Shreveport on July 4, 2011.

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A Network of Prayers

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

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couple of years ago I attended a funeral in my parish. The deceased was one of those women many of us strive to become; holy, real, sincere, pious and prayerful. During the service the priest held up a battered old composition notebook.

He told us it was a prayer notebook. We all knew that if you asked this lady to pray for you, or anyone for that matter, she said she would add it “to the list.” All this time I thought she meant a mental list, but no, here was the proof, an actual notebook.

She took the time to write it all down so she would not forget anyone’s request. “Wow,” was all I could manage to think as tears welled in my eyes. I thought about how many people I have told I was praying for them, or those who asked me through various mediums, phone calls, email, text messages, desperate whispered pleas, to pray for them, and I wondered if I had remembered each of those requests. I realize God already knows the heart. I believe this notebook was not for God, rather for this good woman to keep “grounded” both in memory and in spirit.

Recently I have come into the modern age. I admit, I’m on Facebook. I hasten to add that my children set it up for me as I had no idea how it worked. Initially I checked it maybe once a month. Finally Nick, my youngest son, pointed out to me that I had 35 notifications, 14 friend requests, and several messages.

At this point I decided to “get into” Facebooking. I discovered that people will post a lot of things. It is probably replacing email to some degree and is an extremely fast way to communicate.

Something else I discovered? People, regardless of the medium they use, still ask for prayer.

Recently I called my friend and told her I would be using a notebook as her mother had. There are so many prayer requests coming from Facebook that I need to make sure I keep up with them. Each morning I check my Facebook page for any news, notifications, photographs or prayer requests. As recently as yesterday I received an invitation to attend an event on Facebook, a prayer meeting that extends beyond any geographical boundary. We are all praying for Christ Church, New Zealand and all their trials and tribulations. Imagine thousands of people all praying with one intention in mind, praying for the sake of humankind, praying out of love and concern. How powerful is that?! In the past couple of months there was a group dedicated to people who were being adversely affected by the Mississippi flood. A few weeks back I was praying in concert with total strangers for a young runaway to come home, and she has!

I check on a group of friends whom I have never met. They are the men and women of the AlAnon blog I found through Facebook. Every morning I utter a prayer for all the needs which God has made known to me through this electronic community, and I hope they pray for my needs also. The notebook doesn’t stop when I log out. I have many “flesh and blood” requests for prayer, as most of us know only too well.

This is where the notebook comes to my rescue. God uses us all when we allow it, even through a social medium like Facebook; even a woman with a single subject spiral bound notebook, even frantic family members crying out for prayer so a young girl comes back home; even you, even me.

Catholic Charities Awarded Grant for Immigration Center | by Jean Dresley, Director of Catholic Charities of Shreveport

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atholic Charities has been awarded a grant from the Beaird Foundation for the Immigration Integration Center. The Immigration Integration Center will help immigrants living in our area to secure the tools needed to improve their living conditions and enable them to be full and contributing members of our larger community. Catholic Charities will accomplish this with an array of services that includes educational programs, access to adequate living conditions and low-cost legal immigration assistance. The Immigration Integration Center is an ambitious project but it is very much needed here, particularly since there is currently no such center in our area. We are grateful to the Beaird Family both for recognizing this need and for their generous support.

We are also working on other programs to serve people in our diocese, such as a financial education program to help low-income families break the cycle of poverty. This program will include a series of classes designed to teach low-income individuals and families to better manage their current resources, to improve their level of training/education and increase their income, to establish or improve their credit rating, and to provide the knowledge needed to begin and continue to build assets. Each family will be assigned a caseworker to meet with them regularly for six months to help them develop goals and a plan to achieve those goals. In the future we hope to expand this program to include other financial services for low income individuals.

We are continuing to offer emergency assistance. As with the Immigration Integration Center and the financial education program, the need here is tremendous.Within our first year, we have begun receiving requests to assist more than 100 people each month. We do not have the resources to help each one financially, but we do offer assistance to others in navigating the maze of agencies with referrals specific to their needs. Most of our clients have low incomes, but the reality is that anyone could find themselves in need because of the loss of a job, a personal disaster such as a fire, or a widespread disaster such as a tornado.

Even people who do not need financial help may benefit from referrals for counseling or other specialized services. Because there will always be such crisis situations, we will continue to offer emergency assistance as one of our programs.

For these programs to succeed we need the ongoing support of our community. We need volunteers to work with our immigrant and financial education clients. We need in-kind donations for our emergency food pantry and to defray other expenses. We need funding to assist with emergencies, to offer classes and programs and to provide other services. Whatever gifts you would like to contribute, we would be most appreciative. You may visit us at 331 East 71st Street in Shreveport, or call us at (318) 865-0200.

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SMALL CHURCH PROFILE: Blessed Sacrament Church, Ringgold

by Linda Webster, PhD During the 25th anniversary year of the Diocese of Shreveport we will be profiling small parishes around the diocese.

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e’ve never had a resident priest and that makes us an unusual church,” said David Saucier, a member of Blessed Sacrament Church and former educator in Ringgold. “We had to take the initiative to be church.”

That initiative included starting a congregation in 1958 when 16 families gathered around a table in the dining room of the Leo Renz home to celebrate Mass with Rev. Martin Tyrrell from St. Paul in Minden.

“We petitioned Bishop Greco for a church and the Catholic Blessed Sacrament Church in Ringgold, LA. Extension Society provided funding for the structure we have Jack. “It was several hundred bags. We sold onions for the next now, built in 1959,” continued Saucier. “My wife and I felt like several weeks. We talked about onions and some of us even we were missionaries in a foreign land. No one in the schools dreamed about onions. Some of the ladies prepared onion was Catholic. The town was suspicious of the new Catholic casserole dishes for breakfast after Mass in hopes of keeping us church and that was a big concern for all of us. Our hope was to motivated.” help people understand that even though we were Catholic, we Warren also remembered a procession from the one traffic were kind of ‘normal!’” light in Ringgold to the church on Corpus Christi about 10 years In fact, Bienville Parish has a Catholic population of less than ago.

1% according to the 2000 census as reported by Glenmary Home “With a police escort, the Knights of Columbus in full dress Missioners. And Blessed Sacrament is the only Catholic church led the way, followed by the youth with candles in hand. Fr. Peter in the entire parish. The small brick church stands alone on Mangum came next holding the Blessed Sacrament and the rest Military Road at the north end of town on a gently-sloping lot. of the congregation followed. It was truly an amazing sight.”

The entrance is an unusual circular shape leading into a vestibule Rev. William Hopp, a retired priest, lived in the Ringgold with three choices: the sanctuary straight ahead through double area and served as pastor until his death in 1964. Since then, the glass doors, the reconciliation room at a slight angle to the right, parish has been served, once again, by the pastors of St. Paul in and access to the library up a short flight of stairs to a narrow Minden. hallway that also provides access to the fellowship hall on the Pat Meachum wrote that the congregation shared chicken lower level via a carpeted stairwell. casseroles after a community Seder led by Fr. Pike Thomas when The interior of the sanctuary has been renovated with he pastored the church. Outreach activities in the small town fresh paint in warm rose tones and stained glass windows included serving watermelon at the Ringgold Nurse Care and complimented with Fr. Mark Franklin’s stunning altar of repose donating clothing and food to the local We Care ministries. Fr. and other wood work behind the miniature railings at the front Karl Daigle presided at Mass when the congregation moved of the church. temporarily to the Methodist Church after Blessed Sacrament Former parishioner Jack Warren remembers a fundraiser was flooded and the ceiling needed to be replaced. from the mid-1990s that almost backfired.

“When we moved here in 1975, Ringgold was a vibrant “Some of the men drove to Georgia and picked up a load of community, ” said Saucier.

“We had a shoe store, a pharmacy.

Vidalia onions,” wrote Amy Dean who interviewed her brother, But businesses closed and the school is now the major employer. Residents drive to Minden and Shreveport to work and it’s affected our sense of community.”

Saucier spent 40 years working in the local school system, serving as the elementary school principal for 10 years after 30 years in the classroom, and he continues his teaching ministry both in the community and in the church.

“I used to teach RCIA but I’m now teaching the Confirmation class. We meet at St. Paul and there is one student from Ringgold, one from Homer, and one from Farmerville along with the Minden kids. Overall, I think we Fr. Mark Franklin processes into Blessed Sacrament Church to begin Mass.

8 9 Catholic Connection August 2011

have six or seven young people taking instruction.”

Blessed Sacrament parishioners develop their Catholic identity from community with one other, given their isolation. They gather after Mass in the downstairs fellowship hall each Sunday morning to share coffee and refreshments and to plan parish activities.

“Almost thirty years ago, we started an Easter egg hunt after Easter Sunday Mass. That’s still going strong. We have a refreshments list for each Sunday and we all look forward to going to Mass because for many of us, this is the only family we have in the area.”

Parishioners continue to be active in ecumenical activities in the community.

They help out at the Methodist-

SECOND COLLECTIONS:

Diocese of Shreveport Hispanic Ministry Aid to the Church in Latin America and Central and Eastern Europe Catholic University and the National Institute for Hispanic Ministry Announcement Dates: August 13,14, 20, 21 Collection Dates: August 27, 28

Members of the Shreveport Hispanic Community celebrate together.

Children gather in their new parish center in Koszalin, Poland for cultural celebration.

he Diocese of Shreveport Hispanic Ministry Collection is of greatest benefit to us here in this diocese. A great concern for the Catholic Church is the spiritual and material wellbeing of our Spanish-speaking brothers and sisters. Our faith calls us to attend to the spiritual and corporal needs of people in the name of God, no matter their status. Our Spanish-speaking brothers and sisters are like Israel/Jacob and his family who had to leave their country to find food and life in Egypt. God assured Israel that He would go down to Egypt with him and return him to his land.

We, the Church, are the presence and promise of God. Through our pastoral ministry, especially the celebration of the Sacraments with our Spanish-speaking brothers and sisters, the Lord is present to His people who are poor in spirit and resources.

Please be especially generous to the second collection for the Diocese of Shreveport Hispanic Ministry. You may not speak Spanish; you may not be able to engage in direct ministry to Spanishspeakers, but your generosity is a spiritual and universal language that is readily understood and gladly received. Your contribution to this collection remains entirely with us for use here in our diocese.

In a very similar vein is our appeal to be mindful of the needs of our sister churches and parishes throughout Latin American and Eastern Europe. As the Church in these countries continues to grow and respond to the spiritual and materials needs of these still developing places, our assistance is vital to their survival. Your contribution to this collection is sent to the Bishops’ national office for distribution to dioceses and their works abroad. Through our national office you have the security of knowing your donation is going to Catholic dioceses, parishes and their projects proclaiming to our brothers and sisters abroad from their Catholic siblings in the U.S.A. the presence, power and compassion of “Christ Yesterday, Today and Forever.”

The second collection for Catholic University & the National Institute for Hispanic Ministry supports the existence and mission of The Catholic University of America, as well as the pastoral outreach of the National Institute for Hispanic Ministry. The Catholic University of America is unique as the national University of the Catholic Church and the only higher education institution founded by the U.S. bishops.

May the Lord bless you for your care and concern for all the churches.

T

Altar of Repose carved and donated by Fr. Mark Franklin.

sponsored breakfast each Friday during Lent and co-sponsored with the Methodists a day of prayer during Desert Storm. And one parishioner, Terry Thrash, has had a long lasting impact on the community.

“Yeah, I’m the one who got the school cafeteria to serve fish sticks on Fridays all those years ago,” he grinned. “I still get blamed at our class reunions for those fish sticks. They were pretty awful.”

Blessed Sacrament continues to serve families from Lake Bistineau, Heflin, Hall Summit, and Castor as well as Ringgold. Fr. Mark Franklin currently pastors the community.

| by Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General

9 8

NATIONAL: Archbishop Chaput Moves to Philadelphia

Colorado supported elimination of the statute of limitations, so long as it is fair and everyone is treated the same way.

It should not be limited to the church, he said, because the HILADELPHIA (CNS) -- Archbishop Charles J. Chaput law should “treat everyone the same, without exception.” told a crowd of reporters and guests at a July 19 news Asked about more lay involvement in the church, he conference that “what you see is pretty much what you pointed to the Archdiocese of Denver where he established a get.” diocesan pastoral council composed mostly of laity.“I look for “I don’t know why the Holy Father sent me here. But I a wonderful relationship with the laity because I was baptized do trust his heart, and I believe in his judgment,” he said, before I was ordained,” he said. commenting on his appointment as archbishop of Philadelphia In answer to a lighter question, Archbishop Chaput, who is announced earlier that morning.

Native American, said he has two Native American names, one He will succeed Cardinal Justin Rigali. Pope Benedict XVI from the Potawatami meaning “he who makes the leaves rustle accepted the 76-year-old cardinal’s resignation and appointed like the wind,” and the other from Lakota, meaning “Good the Denver archbishop, who is 66, to replace him. He will be Eagle.” installed Sept. 8.

The latter was apt, because earlier in the news conference “I know other bishops would have been smarter than I am, Catholic high school students presented him with a or more talented, or more connected with Philadelphia’s past,” Philadelphia Eagles shirt and a Philadelphia Phillies baseball Archbishop Chaput continued. “I know that Cardinal Rigali cap. They also gave him a basket of Philly munchies with a is one of the great churchmen of my life. He has served the promise of a cheesesteak when he is installed. church with enormous dedication and in ways I will never be He also volunteered the correct pronunciation of his name able to duplicate. is “Chap-you” but he prefers to just be called “Archbishop “But I do promise that no bishop will love the people and Charles.” priests of this local church more than I will. No bishop will give Cardinal Rigali called the appointment of his successor “a more of himself than I will give," he added. "And no bishop will new moment in the life of this local church and so a time of try to work harder to help persons who have been hurt by the great grace.” sins of the past, or work harder to strengthen and encourage Archbishop Chaput’s ministry “is marked by an evident joy our priests and renew the hearts of our people.” in his priesthood, a fearless proclamation of the Gospel and a Many of the questions put to the archbishop by the press clear commitment to Jesus Christ and his church,” he said. centered on the current turmoil in the archdiocese caused by Of his own ministry, Cardinal Rigali said, “It is a formidable the child abuse scandal and how he would respond to it. task to be a bishop. I have tried through my ministry to be Archbishop Chaput said he has not yet read the Philadelphia faithful to the ideal of episcopal ministry, If I offended anyone grand jury reports detailing the situation, but he intends to do in any way, I am deeply sorry. I apologize for any weakness on so. my part in representing Christ and his church worthily and “It would be unfair and foolish to comment on things I do effectively.” not yet know about,” he said.

Cardinal Rigali also said the pope has appointed him to be He said he has already had discussions with Cardinal Rigali administrator of the archdiocese until Archbishop Chaput’s and the bishops but installation and then he needs to meet the begins his retirement priests and the people. in the Diocese of “No bishop can solve Knoxville, TN. any issues on his own,” He was invited to he said. “I intend to live there by Bishop listen to everybody in Richard F. Stika, the church on the issue who was ordained a of sexual abuse by the priest of the St. Louis clergy. I need to talk to Archdiocese. When the victims and their then-Archbishop Rigali families. Everybody was archbishop of St. should have a voice.

Louis, then-Father Give me time, and Stika was his secretary I’ll be able to answer and archdiocesan questions.” chancellor.

On the question of Cardinal Rigali will statutes of limitation continue to travel twice on child abuse cases a month to Rome, as it was addressed by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, the newly appointed archbishop of Philadelphia, tries where he serves on the the church in Denver, on a Phillies baseball cap during a news conference July 19 at the archdiocesan Vatican Congregation Archbishop Chaput headquarters in Philadelphia. Pope Benedict XVI named the Denver archbishop to for Bishops. succeed Cardinal Justin Rigali, who is retiring. (CNS photo/Tim Shaffer, Reuters) said, “The bishops of

by Lou Baldwin Catholic News Service

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10 11 Catholic Connection August 2011

Catholic Schools Continue to Soar the Diocese of Shreveport

in

Dear Catholic Schools Friends, The Diocese of Shreveport Catholic Schools Annual Report provides a brief snapshot of our schools’ 2010- 2011 year. In this report, we celebrate our past accomplishments by presenting some of the data we analyze to help us understand our current strengths and challenges.

Two years ago, as a result of the economic situation facing us, we started moving into a multi-year environment of diminishing financial resources. We started carefully analyzing our student achievement data in relation to our budget and began making difficult decisions about how to best spend the funds allocated to us by the tuition, fund-raising and development efforts. In addition, we have been able to protect our core faith and academic programs.

And while we address these fiscal challenges, we continue to focus on improving our instructional program. We must accelerate the learning of all students so each individual graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college and/or a career. This can be done by increasing the rigor of instruction for all students by differentiating instruction to meet student learning needs and by providing every middle and high school student the most challenging courses possible.

It is not easy to make continuous progress during tough economic times, but the principals, pastors and School Councils are committed to budgeting our funds in ways that focus on student achievement and development.

As always, we appreciate the unfailing support of the Catholic faithful and all those who have committed to our mission as we work together toward the common goal of providing the best education for all of our children.

God bless you, Sr. Carol Shively, OSU Superintendent of Catholic Schools

Jesus the Good Shepherd School

Our Lady of Fatima School

Loyola College Prep

St. Frederick High School

900 Good Shepherd Lane Monroe, LA 71201 318-325-8569 921 Jordan Street Shreveport, LA 71101 318-221-2675

3202 Franklin Street Monroe, LA 71201 318-387-1851

3300 Westminster Avenue Monroe, LA 71201 318-323-9636

St. John Berchmans School 947 Jordan Street Shreveport, LA 71101 318-221-6005

St. Joseph School

1210 Anniston Avenue Shreveport, LA 71105 318-865-3585 11 10

Students who participate in the Science Olympiad program from St. John Berchmans School pose with their awards from the competition.

Terra Nova Achievement Test Reading Language

Our Faculty and Staff: 89 Full-Time Certified Classroom Teachers 4 Music Teachers 11 P. E. Teachers 20 Pre-School Teachers 20 Instructional Assistants 7 Certified Principals

National

50

Math

Science Social Studies Spelling

Total

50

50

50

50

50

50

Kindergarten 78

N/A

87

N/A

N/A

N/A

85

Grade 1

N/A

80

87

88

N/A

88

86

Grade 2

82

86

79

85

90

78

80

Grade 3

71

77

66

80

76

71

73

Grade 4

76

81

61

76

78

74

71

Grade 5

74

74

63

69

68

72

68

Grade 6

74

77

66

74

76

68

72

Grade 7

73

81

79

71

77

77

78

Grade 8

77

83

78

75

78

73

79

Enrollment by Grades for 2010-2011: PreK-3 PreK-4 K 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th TOTAL:

161 250 137 115 112 93 116 101 116 124 105 160 145 139 137 2011

12 13 Catholic Connection August 2011

St. Joseph School students pose with awards they received from the Math Counts competition.

Loyola College Prep Students get a lesson in using iPads in the classroom.

Jesus the Good Shepherd students watch as the Memory Garden is blessed on Grandparentsďż˝ Day.

ACT Scores National Average: 21.1 State Average: 20.1

St. Frederick High School: 23.5 Loyola College Prep: 23.5

ACRE Test Scores Profession of Faith

Liturgy & Sacraments

Life in Christ

Christian Prayer

90 85

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

Diocese of Shreveport Average

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

Nat'l 68%

DOS 77%

Nat'l 79%

DOS 87%

Nat'l 70%

DOS 83%

Nat'l 65%

DOS 70%

Nat'l 76%

DOS 86%

Nat'l 68%

60

DOS 83%

Nat'l 68%

DOS 79%

Nat'l 69%

DOS 80%

Nat'l 69%

DOS 82%

Nat'l 76%

DOS 82%

Nat'l 69%

65

DOS 80%

70

DOS Avg. 85%

75

National Avg. 78%

80

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

National Average

13 12

Faculty and Staff Service Awards: ★ 5 Years ★ Clint Wallace Tina Kallenberg Calvin White Jodi Pipes ★ 10 Years ★ Debbie Wilmore Kyle Tanner Eileen Roper Sue Blackford ★ 15 Years ★ Cathy Kyle Darra Marionneaux

★ 20 Years ★ Liz Cunningham Johnny LeBlanc Camille Meehan Debbie McCulloch Gloria Patterson Eric Vargas Gloria Kerry Ruth Walker Ann Shockley ★ 25 Years ★ Tookie Barr ★ 35 Years ★ Mike Mawhinney Carol Busby

St. Frederick High School�s ladies tennis team were state champions for the 10-11 school year.

Drawing on the spirit of the mission of the Diocese of Shreveport to praise God and proclaim and teach Jesus Christ, the Office of Catholic Schools seeks to provide direction to pastors, principals, teachers and other school leaders so that the vision of Catholic education in the Diocese of Shreveport can be realized.

Our Lady of Fatima students at their �Sock Hop” where they collected socks and donated them to area nursing homes.

Diocese of Shreveport Non-Discriminatory School Policy The Diocese of Shreveport School system re-affirms its non-discriminatory policy on the basis of race, sex, color, national, and ethnic origin in its educational programs, activities, and employment policies in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, and Sections 4.03 (a) and 4.03 (c) Revenue Procedure 75-50.

All students, faculty members and staff, without exception, are admitted to all rights, privileges, and activities generally accorded or made available at the schools which do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national, and ethnic origin in the administration of its employment policies, admission policies, scholarship, and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administrated programs.

St. John Berchmans Cathedral School, Shreveport St. Joseph School, Shreveport Loyola College Preparatory, Shreveport Jesus the Good Shepherd School, Monroe Our Lady of Fatima School, Monroe St. Frederick High School, Monroe

14 15 Catholic Connection August 2011

MEET THE DEPARTMENT: Catholic Schools During the 25th anniversary year of the Diocese of Shreveport we will be profiling those who work in each department for the diocese. We hope this helps you get to know the people who work for you!

assistance process, IDEA and ESEA services, teacher certification issues, and select school budgets. I am completing my eleventh year of ministry here in the Diocese of Shreveport.

Mary Gully: I am the Administrative Assistant to Sr. Carol Shively, our Superintendent of Catholic Schools.

I am married to Bill, and we have a “vibrant” daughter named Jazmyn. I have served at the Catholic Center since 2007. Education has always been an important part of my family, so it brings me pleasure to work in an environment where a good, quality education is offered. I also enjoy collaborating with school administrators and support staff when gathering information for grants, L to R: Sr. Carol Shively, OSU, Superintendent of Catholic Schools; Susan German, Child technology requests or other reports. I feel Nutrition Program Manager; Sr. Ann Middlebrooks, SEC, Associate Superintendent of privileged to be a part of an office family Catholic Schools. Front: Mary Gully, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent. where everyone is treated with respect and atholic Schools Office is charged Dioceses. Some of my favorite things to kindness. with realizing the vision of do are cooking, gardening and building Susan German: I am the Child Catholic education in the diocese. things with wood. I am the Associate Nutrition Program Manager for the This office supports and provides Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Child Nutrition Program. I am married direction for pastors, principals, teachers Diocese of Shreveport. One of my primary to David German, who is the Area and school leaders in our four elementary responsibilities is Director of the Diocese Director of Popeye’s. We have three and two high schools in Monroe and of Shreveport Child Nutrition Program. children, April, Carissa and Christopher Shreveport. Child Nutrition Office works I also assist our Superintendent, Sr. Carol and four grandchildren, all boys. I have to provide nutritious, well-balanced meals Shively, in ministering to our schools in been employed here at the Diocese of for children in our schools. many various ways, including managing Shreveport since December 2000 and I am Sr. Carol Shively, OSU: I am an the annual achievement test, tuition thankful every day for my employment.

Ursuline Sister from Maple Mount, KY. I have been in the convent for 33 St. John Berchmans Medals at National Science years. For the past 11 years, I have served the Diocese of Shreveport as the Olympiad Competition Superintendent of Catholic Schools. I team of middle-school students am blessed to still have my dad, and I from St. John Berchmans School have one sister, a brother-in-law and took home a 4th and 7th place two wonderful, delightful nieces. I am a in the 2011 Science Olympiad National parishioner at St. Jude Church, Bossier Tournament, held May 21 on the City. My favorite part of my ministry University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. is serving the wonderful families who Chris Fenton and Joseph Ligon won a 4th choose Catholic Schools for their children. place medal in Battery Buggy.

Victoria I am blessed to serve with six of the most Brooks and Julia Vanchiere placed 7th in talented principals in north Louisiana.

Ecology.

Each of them shares my deep desire to An after-school team activity, Science bring the Good News of Jesus to another Olympiad is one of the nation’s most generation. If you are feeling the call prestigious and rigorous competitions of to gift your children with a Catholic science, technology, engineering and math. education, please call me anytime at the The national tournament in Wisconsin Catholic Center. drew 3,000 students on 120 winning Sr. Ann Middlebrooks, SEC: I am a middleand high-school teams from 47 U.S. states. These teams advanced to the Sister of the Eucharistic Covenant, a small national tournament after winning their state-level competitions this spring. religious community with sisters also serving in the Lafayette and Lake Charles

C

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15 14

25th Anniversary Celebration Brought Diocese Together

by Rosalba Quiroz, Dianne Rachal, Randy Tiller and John Vining

Thousands participated in Mass at the 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Diocese of Shreveport.

T

hree thousand Catholics from across the diocese gathered at the Shreveport Convention Center on July 11 to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Diocese of Shreveport! Organizations in the diocese set up booths in the lobby to distribute information and answer questions. The winners of the children’s Art and Poetry contest were proudly displayed in the lobby as well. The Little Flower of Jesus Church Choir joyfully opened the celebration, lifting voices and spirits in song. A slideshow ran continuously on big screens depicting the history of Catholicism in north Louisiana and the parishes in the diocese today. Fr. Rothell Price was bilingual Master of Ceremonies for the day and introduced Bishop Emeritus William B. Friend who spoke about the formation and history of our diocese. Bishop Michael Duca spoke about evangelism, the challenges facing the diocese today, and his plan for revitalizing parishes and the diocese in the future.

Following lunch, everyone had the opportunity to attend two breakout sessions of their choice. Presentations by local and national speakers included topics such as: Evangelization, Catholic Identity, Social Justice, Diocesan Spirituality, New Parish Models and Vocations.

The Hispanic tract and the Youth track were taking place at the same time as the breakout sessions. The Spanish track was a success as both young and old enjoyed the music from the band Huellas during lunch. The break out session with Fr. J. Luis Gándara was based on the 25th anniversary theme: “Christ Yesterday, Today and Forever”. Around two hundred people listened and enjoyed Fr. Gándara’s teachings.

There was also a separate youth track at Holy Trinity Church, a couple blocks away.

There was a sweet spirit in the air as young people gathered and rejoiced in the glorious Church that began with Christ nearly 2,000 years ago. Chris Padgett ministered with message and song that touched many hearts. The Knights of Columbus Marian Council grilled hamburgers and hotdogs underneath the sheltering parking garage of the Beaird Tower. Everyone played a part, from teens, chaperones and youth leaders

to priests, deacons and administrative assistants. All were one that day.

Following all these events, everyone gathered for the celebration of Mass at 4:00 p.m. Archbishop Gregory Aymond of New Orleans and Auxiliary Bishop Shelton Fabre of New Orleans concelebrated. The stage was beautifully appointed with flowers and the furnishings from St. Catherine Church. Music Director Justin Ward led the 200-member diocesan choir and brass section in providing beautiful music for this celebration.

Diocesan parishes and schools were represented by their banners in the entrance procession, and everyone enjoyed looking for their banner. The priests looked resplendent in new vestments.

Bishop Duca’s homily was inspiring and Spirit-filled. The intercessions were proclaimed in 10 languages spoken in our diocese to remind us of our diversity within one local Church. A sumptuous reception followed Mass.

Thank you to everyone involved with the planning and execution of this momentous celebration in the life of our diocese. It is edifying for the entire diocese to come together on special occasions such as this. “Therefore all should hold in great esteem the liturgical life of the diocese centered around the bishop . . .the preeminent manifestation of the Church is present in the full, active participation of all God’s holy people in the liturgical celebrations, . . .at which the bishop presides, surrounded by his college of presbyters and by his ministers.”

(Ceremonial of Bishops, no. 11)

Young people gathered at Holy Trinity Church for the youth track led by Chris Padgett.

16 17 Catholic Connection August 2011

Pope Launches Vatican Web Portal, Tweets the News | by Sarah Delaney and John Thavis, Catholic News Service

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI inaugurated the Vatican’s online news portal with a click, and then announced the launch with the first-ever papal tweet. “Dear Friends, I just launched News.va. Praised be our Lord Jesus Christ! With my prayers and blessings, Benedictus XVI,” the pope said in his message on the news site’s Twitter account. His tweet -- 117 characters -went viral, and within 24 hours http:// twitter.com/news_va_en had more than 35,000 followers.

The pope was flanked by Vatican communications officials June 28 as he tapped an iPad and officially launched www.news.va, which aggregates news content from the Vatican’s newspaper, radio, television and online outlets.

The pontiff was then given a brief tour of the portal’s features. The launch came on the eve of the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul and the 60th anniversary of Pope Benedict’s ordination into the priesthood.

Archbishop Claudio Celli, who heads the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, said at a news conference June 27 that the site would streamline news from the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano; Vatican Radio; the Vatican television station, CTV; the Vatican Information Service, VIS; the Fides missionary news agency; the Vatican press office; and the main Vatican website.

It offers print, video and audio material in Italian and English. New languages will be added gradually, beginning with Spanish, followed probably by French and Portuguese, he said.

Thaddeus Jones, an official of the pontifical council who coordinated the creation of the portal, said the site gives all the news generated by the various information sources but will highlight the latest most important items of the day.

It features a list of the 10 most-read stories and offers links to many social network sites. Users can share content through Facebook, Twitter and email, Jones said.

Gustavo Entrala, CEO of 101, the Spanish digital media agency chosen for the technical development of the new site, said it was constructed on a high-end flexible platform that allows millions of people to use it at the same time. The first big test, said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, head of the Vatican press office, will be the World Youth Day event in Madrid Aug. 16-21, which will be attended by Pope Benedict and which is expected to generate heavy traffic to the site.

Costs of the development and maintenance of the site will be borne exclusively through donations from private organizations and foundations, Archbishop Celli said. It will not be supported at present or in the future by advertising or other commercial initiatives, he said.

VOCATIONS: Vocations Office Launces New Website

S

howing the priority our diocese places on priestly vocations, the Vocations Office unveiled a beautiful new website on June 11, the same day we celebrated our 25th anniversary as a diocese.

The majority of content on the new site, www.shreveportvocations.com, is directed at young men discerning their vocations. There are sections about overcoming fear of seminary, understanding celibacy, and signs of a priestly vocation. One very useful page offers a “self-test” with 20 priestly characteristics such as “I desire a life of service to others.” Men rank themselves on a scale of 1 -5, then tally their score.

But the website is also useful for

others in the diocese. Parishes will find resources for holding a Holy Hour for Vocations. Parents will find several excellent articles for fostering the vocations of their children. There is even a section written specifically for fifth graders (studies show that many current priests first considered priesthood around age eleven).

One cool element of the new site is integration with Facebook: everything posted on our vocations Facebook page is automatically on the website, too.

If you’d like to read biographies of our seminarians, check out the archive of vocations newsletters, or just learn what seminary is like these days, visit www. shreveportvocations.com.

17 16

Hispanic Corner | por Rosalba Quiroz

Misas

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

Evangelización A la Moderna tenemos un invitado especial que es su

A

partir del 10 de abril del 2011 lanzamos un programa de radio todos los domingos de 8:30 a.m. a 9:00 a.m. por la radiodifusora “La Invasora” 92.1 FM que se puede escuchar en el área de Shreveport/Bossier y sus alrededores. Durante el programa hablamos de temas de importancia actual, así como del Evangelio del Día, los Santos que se celebran durante la semana y de vez en cuando con la sorpresa de un invitado especial.

Comenzamos ya la segunda etapa de este proyecto que es poner a su disponibilidad los programas que ya han pasado para escucharse a través de la página de internet de la diócesis, www. dioshpt.org Hay dos maneras de abrir la sección en español: una vez en la página principal buscar a la derecha arriba donde dice en español y de ahí se ven nuestros programas. También donde dice Ministries, y buscar Hispanic Ministry.

Lo emocionante de este nuevo logro es que no solo la gente que vive en el área de Shreveport/Bossier podrá conectarse sino sus familiares y amigos, donde quiera que se encuentren. ¿Qué tal si de pronto

pariente, vecino o alguien famoso?

Además, por medio de la página de internet usted puede también poner sus comentarios, preguntas y sugerencias.

Visite nuestra página también para ir a otros enlaces interesantes.

Retiro Para Jovencitos y jovencitas de 14-17 Años de Edad

Los invitamos a que participen en este retiro “Búsqueda, para una madurez cristiana”.

Del 2-4 de Septiembre en un campamento de retiros de Waskom, TX. (Scottsville, TX) Si tiene hijos, hijas, hermanos, hermanas, amiguitos de esta edad, anímenlos a participar de un fin de semana dedicado a conocer más de sí mismos, de Jesus y de la Iglesia. El cupo es limitado pero aún quedan unos espacios. Llame ahora para la inscripción o visite la página de internet.

Deseando hayan tenido un verano lleno de aventuras y descanso y que tengan un feliz regreso a clases.

Saludos y cariños de parte de tu iglesia Católica.

Calendario Diocesano Mes de Agosto

Escuela de Ministerios: Graduacion.

15 Festividad de la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María.

16-21 Dia Mundial de la Juventud, Madrid Espana Retiro de Jóvenes adultos que hayan cumplido, sin excepciones los 18 años.

Waskom/Scottsville, TX. Del Viernes 6 p.m. al Domingo 4 p.m. Fecha Límite de inscripción el 12 de Agosto.

Septiembre del 2011:

Retiro Diocesano (Búsqueda) de Adolescentes/jóvenes de 14-17 años.

18 19 Catholic Connection August 2011

Farmerville: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church 600 E. Water Street Farmerville Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115 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 Minden: St. Paul Church 410 Fincher Road Minden 2do y 4to Viernes 7:00 p.m.

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

Feliciano y Rosa Alviso Martinez Tel: 318-428-2137 Ruston: St. Thomas Aquinas Church 810 Carey Ave. Ruston 2do y 4to Domingo 2:30 p.m.

Soledad Broyles Tel: 318-243-1958 Shreveport: St. Mary of the Pines Church 1050 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop Shreveport Domingo 1:00 p.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

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora del Ministerio Hispano 318-219-7265 Jeanne Brown 318-219-7257

Theology on Tap for Young Adults | by Kevin Nolten DIACONATE: The Rite of Candidacy | by Deacon Clary Nash

Bishop Michael Duca addresses young adults at Theology on Tap.

T

he Rite of Candidacy, the next step toward ordination to the Permanent Diaconate will take place on August 7, at 2:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans with Bishop Michael Duca. These men are in the second formation program for the Diocese of Shreveport and have been discerning the call to ordination for several years.

These aspirants have completed the first year with numerous recommendations from both church members and pastors. They have all gone through Admissions Committee interviews before being recommended for Candidacy. The Diaconate Formation has three tracks of study: academic, pastoral and spiritual.The University of Dallas has provided the academic track. The eight courses completed included studies such as Church History, Philosophy I & II, Moral Theology and Scripture I & II. (The general public is invited to register and participate in the University of Dallas classes which will begin again September 10, 2011).

The Pastoral track has been provided by professionals within the diocese.

Courses included popular Catholic devotions, how to pray the Liturgy of the Hours and Counseling.

The Spirituality track was provided by professionals who teach for Greco Institute. Courses included history of spirituality, study of the great spiritual leaders in our church and various forms of spirituality.

August 7 will be an exciting day for our diocese as these men take the next step toward ordination. All are invited to attend this Rite of Candidacy and asked to show their support to these men and their families.

O

n Thursday, May 26, well over 50 young adults ranging from 22 to 35-years-old gathered at the Catholic Center for the first diocesan event of its kind in our area. Theology on Tap is a structured program designed to bring young adults together in a relaxed, social environment. The main focus with this program is relational ministry through networking. In this environment, speakers are brought in to share and educate the group on our Catholic Faith.

For the first event, Bishop Duca shared on what it means to be Catholic, reinforcing our values as Catholics as we set out in a society that pulls us away from those very

values. Following a brief presentation, Bishop Duca opened the floor for any questions about the faith, about being a bishop, and even about challenges young adults face.

Theology on Tap can be described as one of the most flexible, structured programs offered for Catholic young adults. It is this flexibility that offers us the opportunity to tailor its offerings to the needs of our young adults in the Diocese of Shreveport. Please be on the lookout in your parish bulletin or in the September edition of the Catholic Connection for another “T.O.T.” event to take place in the fall.

Michael and Sherry Kenney Retire | by Kevin Nolten

I

n 1978 St. Joseph Church received news that Michael and Sherry Kenney were coming to town. That year they began calling Shreveport home and leaving their indelible mark on our diocese. That mark never stopped growing; their impact never dulled; and their love for this diocese never ceased.

“Welcome to St. Joseph Church, today we celebrate the nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. We welcome any visitors among us as we worship together…”

Parishioners and visitors to St. Joseph Church in Shreveport have heard this line at the beginning of Mass for the past 33 years. Mass goers have grown accustomed to saying, “Morning, Mike” or as the school students like to say, “Hey Mr. Kenney!” At the end of July, the two icons that have made up the music ministry of St. Joseph will be retiring.

Michael and Sherry Kenney have been tickling the ivories and directing some of the greatest musical choirs throughout their time in ministry. They have been the constant arm not only in music, but in liturgy as a whole. We as a diocese have been truly blessed with their love

Michael and Sherry Kenney

and dedication in the many facets of their passion. We have been enriched by their talents and knowledge of the faith. Their talents at the organ and orchestrating choirs will be missed. Though Michael and Sherry will be retiring, we are grateful they will remain in the diocese and we will still be able to see their smiling faces and hear their witty jokes.

Congratulations Michael and Sherry!

19 18

Around the Diocese

H

ope�s Haven is a peaceful and secure outdoor space behind the Hope House on Austin Place in downtown Shreveport. On Thursday, June 16 both the house and haven were filled with supporters and friends to help celebrate the dedication of the lovely space, which was made possible through the efforts of several churches, organizations and individuals who donated their time, labor, money and materials to the project. The Hope House is organized by the Hope for the Homeless Coalition whose goal is always to get people into appropriate housing. Many thanks to those of you who helped create this oasis in the middle of our downtown.

LEFT: The Little Flower Academy Daycare Moving Up Ceremony took place on Friday, May 13, 2011.

RIGHT: Bishop Duca visited the Sacred Heart’s Friends and Faith in Service annual rummage sale on his birthday. Bishop Duca found the popcorn popper he was looking for and enjoyed a surprise birthday party, cards, cake and lots of fun. The rummage sale was a huge success too.

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his Summer the youth of St. Thomas Aquinas had the opportunity to attend Summer Camp at Covecrest in Tiger, GA. At Covecrest youth learned more about their faith and experienced Christ through the Sacraments and the wonders of God through nature!

20 21 Catholic Connection August 2011

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t. Paschal School was transformed into a fun-loving atmosphere during our Vacation Bible School. There children discovered that God has a purpose and a plan for everyone, and that He crafted each student with His own loving hands.

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he weekend of June 11, the St. Jude youth group served the poor of the New Orleans area in recovery from Katrina by renovating and beautifying homes in the blighted zone of that city.

Following their work, 42 of our youth and chaperones (including those from other Christian churches) descended down to the bayous of Houma-Thibodaux to celebrate the Catholic faith and recommit themselves to a life of prayer, praise and service, along with 3,000 other young Catholics. The program is always filled with lively, uplifting music and song from contemporary groups, several powerful talks and exhortations, Masses, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and always the climactic, heartfelt procession with the Blessed Sacrament.

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ather Zacharias served Sacred Heart in Oak Grove for 12 glorious, spiritfilled years. June 26th, 2011, was Father Zacharias’ final Mass at Sacred Heart. After Mass the congregation gathered with him in Germain Hall for a luncheon, farewell gift, and expressions of love and thanks. He has been a model of Jesus’ holiness in thought, deed, word and action. His absence will be felt by the congregation, his Church family.

Father, thanks for generously and humbly giving yourself to God to serve Him and teaching us to have courageous, loving, welcoming hearts and respect the dignity and personal worth of others by helping them to have a sense of belonging to our Church family.”

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n Tuesday, June 28, Deacon Clary Nash walked into the Knights of Columbus Hall and was met with a huge surprise. There friends, family and clergy had gathered to celebrate his 25th anniversary as a permanent deacon.

Clary was overwhelmed by the event. He emotionally thanked everyone and told a piece of his life story, including how God�s call led him first to Shreveport, and then onto the diaconate program.

He also reminisced about how being a deacon has allowed him to become a part of people�s lives, from baptisms and weddings to counseling and funerals.

Clary said he looks forward to many more years as a deacon.

PRO-LIFE NEWS: ProLife Walkers Stop By Shreveport by Roxie Tabor

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ine young adult members of Crossroads visited Shreveport the weekend of July 8-10 as part of their long walk across the United States promoting pro-life.

They were greeted at the St. Joseph Family Life center by Fr. Thomas Elavunkal, St. Joseph Church, and John Vining, Diocesan Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries.

Roxie Tabor, representing VITA, presented the group with a $300 check. VITA also served a meal for the walkers and pro-life supporters.

There are four separate Crossroads walks across America this summer. They began in May in Los Angeles, San Jose and San Francisco, California; and in Seattle, Washington. The group walking through Shreveport began in Los Angeles. All four groups will meet in Washington, D.C. in August. Their website is www.crossroadswalk.org.

Crossroads is a Civil Rights organization that exists in order to help bring about a Culture of Life and defend the right of unborn children.

Because any such Culture of Life must take root in the youth of our society to truly flourish, Crossroads especially looks to involve and challenge young people to actively take part in bringing it about. By looking to Jesus and Mary as role models in prayer and sacrifice, and by understanding the value of suffering, we hope to convert hearts and minds and to save lives.

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Upcoming Events AUGUST 6: ST. PIUS X SCHOOL REUNION This summer, the former St. Pius X School of Shreveport is planning on having its very first school reunion.

We are in the process of trying to get the word out to all former students from 1964 to 1984, when the school closed. Date of the Reunion: August 6, 2011 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. For further details, email: StPiusReunion2011@yahoo.com. The reunion is for all students who attended.

AUGUST13: MAGNIFICAT PRAYER BRUNCH WITH FR. BYRON MILLER Magnificat is sponsoring a prayer brunch on August 13 from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. in the Activities Center at St. Jude Church.

The guest speaker will be Fr. Byron Miller from New Orleans. Bishop Michael Duca will be attending as our special guest.

Father Byron Miller, C.Ss.R. is the Executive Director of the National Shrine of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos and the Vice Postulator of the Seelos Canonization Cause in New Orleans.

In 1985, Fr. Miller professed his vows as a Redemptorist in the Redemptorist Novitiate and then received his Masters of Divinity at the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, TX. Fr. Miller was ordained a Redemptorist Priest in Crowley, LA on May 26, 1990.

Come hear the Vice Postulator of the Seelos Canonization Cause, Father Byron Miller, speak about healings attributed to Blessed Francis Seelos, the latest developments in his cause, and the exciting ministry at the Seelos Shrine in New Orleans.

The brunch will be open to both men and women. Admittance is $12 and reservations should be made by calling either Barbara McAlister at (318) 747-7029 or Helen Langley at (318) 746-6223.

Arts Center, and to the Bible Museum.

The package also includes tickets to the Pine Mountain Jamboree Music Show.

Transportation will be aboard a deluxe motor coach. The deadline for registration is August 14, 2011. Contact Mary, Queen OCTOBER 24-26: MARY, QUEEN OF of Peace Church to register, 318-752-5971.

PEACE CHURCH TRIP TO EUREKA APRIL 27-MAY 7, 2012: HOLY LAND SPRINGS Fr. Ampatt and Mary, Queen PILGRIMAGE Join Father Matthew Long of Peace Church are planning a trip to and tour guide Fr. Peter Vasko, OFM, on Eureka Springs in Arkansas to see the a Holy Land pilgrimage to Capernaum, famous Great Passion Play and other Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Nazareth, attractions. The trip will include: lodging Via Dolorosa and Garden of Gethsemane for two nights, tickets for the Great Passion Play which includes: seating at the with daily Mass. For more information, contact Jesus Good Shepherd Catholic play performance, Moses’ Tabernacle in Church at 318-325-7549 or John Morris at the Wilderness Walking Tour, Top of the 318-325-3741.

Mountain Dinner Theater, admission to the Museum of Earth History, The Sacred AUGUST 26: 10th ANNUAL BLUE MASS The 10th Annual Blue Mass will honor all law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency personnel at St. Mary of the Pines Church at 9:30 a.m.

AUGUST 21: ST. PIUS X CHOIR PRESENTS F.J. HAYDN’S MARIAZELLER MASS This is the inaugural concert in the new St. Pius Sanctuary. Come enjoy the amazing acoustics of this new space. The concert will be conducted by Marc-Andre Bougie and begin at 4:00 p.m. The concert will also feature the Shreveport Chorale and Orchestra , as well as the Texarkana Regional Chorale. Arrive early! Admission is free.

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AUGUST 2011 SUNDAY

31

MONDAY

TUESDAY

1

Deacon Bill Roche, Bishop Michael Duca, Fr. Rothell Price and firefighters at 2010's Blue Mass at St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church.

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

2

3

Saint Alphonsus Priests Retirement Liguori, bishop & Board Meeting, doctor of the Church Catholic Center,

FRIDAY

4

SATURDAY

5

6

The Dedication of the The Transfiguration Basilica of Saint Mary of the Lord Major in Rome

Saint John Mary Vianney, priest

11am

Saint Eusebius of Vercelli, bishop; Saint Peter Julian Eymard, priest

7

Call to Candidacy for Deacon Aspirants, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 2pm

14

8

9

10

Saint Dominic, priest Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, virgin and martyr

15

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary First Day of Catholic Schools

Deadline for Sept Catholic Connection

11

16

17

Mass for the Opening School Year, Cathedral, 9:30am

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13

Saint Jane Frances Saint Pontain, pope de Chantal, religious & martyr, and Saint Hippolytus, priest and martyr

Saint Clare, virgin

Saint Lawrence, deacon & martyr

Liturgical Meeting, Catholic Center, 12:30pm Editorial Board Meeting, Catholic Center, 10am

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Saint John Eudes, priest

20 Saint Bernard, abbot and doctor of the Church

Saint Stephen of Hungary

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St. Pius X Choir Presents Mariazeller Mass, St. Pius X Church, 4pm

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2nd Collections: Hispanic Ministry, Church in Latin America & Europe and Catholic University

22 The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary

23 Saint Rose of Lima, virgin

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Saint Bartholomew, apostle

25 Hispanic Ministry Executive Committee Meeting, Catholic Center

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Blue Mass, St. Mary of the Pines Church, 9:30am

St. Louis of France; Saint Joseph Calasanz, priest

29 The Martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist

30

Clergy Formation Day, Catholic Center, 9am

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1

27 2nd Collections: Hispanic Ministry, Church in Latin America & Europe and Catholic University

Saint Monica

2

3

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DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

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Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

25th Anniversary Celebration of the Diocese of Shreveport

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w it h brate d Mass le ce a uc D el a and Bish op Mich Aymond (lef t) y or g re G op h Archbis (r igh t). illiam Fr ie nd W us it er Em Bish op

ak ou t ts o n le d a bre Fr. M a rk Wa y. st ice Minis tr Ju l a ci o S n o se ss io n

24 Catholic Connection August 2011

he Diocese of Shreveport celebrated 25 years on June 11 at the Convention Center in downtown Shreveport. The event drew over 2,000 participants and included breakout sessions, a youth track, Hispanic track and Mass. To read more about the event, check out page 16 of this issue.

Bo ot hs were se t up for visi tors to le ar n more ab ou t dioces an minist rie s and Cath olic organi zatio ns .

hipped H ue ll as wors p u ro g l a ic Mus nit y. p anic commu w it h th e His

be rs f rom a ll m e m f o d e is r A ch o ir c omp n. t h e ce le brat io t a g n a s se e o ve r t h e dio c