Catholic Connection October 2010

VOL. 20, NO.3

Respect Life

at All Ages & All Stages

OCTOBER 2010

From the Chancellor

by Christine Rivers, Chancellor

Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Regular Contributors Bishop Michael Duca Kim Long Missy McKenzie Lucy Medvec Fr. Rothell Price

Rosalba Quiroz Dianne Rachal Jessica Rinaudo Christine Rivers John Mark Willcox

Featured Contributors Katie Aranda Deacon Clary Nash Tom Aranda Roxie Tabor Ruth Burdges John Thavis Jean Dresley Mike Van Vranken Most. Rev. Robert Finn Sr. Marilyn Vassallo

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his year the Solemnity of All Saints falls on Monday, November 1, and, in keeping with the decision of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, is not observed as a holy day of obligation.

For Pastors and Parish Administrators

Reporting forms from the Official Catholic Directory were mailed directly from the OCD office in New Jersey to all parishes and Catholic schools in September. Please update the information and return to the Chancellor’s Office so that we may submit our materials by the requested deadline. If your location has not received a form, please contact the Chancellor’s Office for a duplicate.

St. Pius X New Sanctuary Dedication to Take Place in October

by Ruth Burdges, St. Pius X Church

Editorial Board Dianne Rachal Cathy Cobb Christine Rivers Rev. Charles Glorioso Christie Weeks Kim Long John Mark Willcox Kelly Phelan The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Service Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport. Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

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

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

Our Diocese is recognized by the Board of Immigration Appeals as a Non-Profit Organization capable of giving Immigration Legal Advice. We offer Immigration Professional Services to 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

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n the 16th of October, St. Pius X parish will dedicate their new church sanctuary.

Bishop Michael Duca will officiate at the dedication beginning with Mass at 10:00 a.m. A reception will follow in the Multi-Purpose Room.

The dedication will mark a culmination of planning, raising money, and finally beginning

construction, which began with a dream when Fr. Charles Glorioso was pastor, and Capital Campaign seven years ago. The parishioners formed a Building Committee which researched and chose a plan, an architect and finally the winning contractor through a bid process. Through prayer and unwavering support the dream has been realized.

Dates for the 140th Anniversary Celebration at St. Patrick Church in Lake Providence Have Changed!

NEW DATES:

Saturday October 23:

Friday, October 22: 4:30 p.m. Rosary 5:00 p.m. Holy Mass

4:00 p.m. Rosary, Vespers, Benediction

Message: Rev. Job Edathinatt, cmi

Sunday October 24: 10:30 a.m. Holy Mass at St. Patrick Church.

Celebrant for Sunday’s Mass: Most Rev. Michael G. Duca, Bishop of the Diocese of Shreveport Dinner will follow Mass in Barker Hall.

On the Cover: Portrait of a child with his grandparents outside. © Andres Rodriguez | Dreamstime.com

October 2010

Contents

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16

From the Chancellor by Christine Rivers..................................... 2

Divine Mercy and the Death Penalty by Most Rev. Robert Finn.....14

St. Pius X New Sanctuary Dedication by Ruth Burdges............. 2

Respecting Life with an Open Heart...............................................15

Bishop Michael Duca’s October 2010 Schedule......................... 3

What’s New at St. Pius X Child Center by Ruth Burdges...............16

Bishop’s Reflection by Most Reverend Michael G. Duca............ 4-5

September Marked Beginning of New Diaconate Class

by Deacon Clary Nash..............................................................16

John Manno Jr. March of Dimes Citizen of the Year................... 6 Susan Skidmore Professes First Vows........................................ 6 Collections: World Mission Sunday by Fr. Rothell Price.............. 7 Father Seelos Day in Louisiana................................................... 7 Meet Fr. Rothell Price, New Vicar General for the Diocese......... 8 We Have a Missal! by Dianne Rachal and Catholic News Service........................................................9

We’re in This for Life by Mike Van Vranken......................................17 Hispanic Corner por Rosalba Quiroz........................................... 18 At Mass in Scotland, Pope Urges Catholics to Show Faith Publicly by John Thavis............................................... 19 New Orleans Archdiocese 'Buries' Katrina by CNS.................... 19 Around the Diocese............................................................. ....20-21

School News................................................................................10

Blessing of the Graves by Fr. Rothell Price..................................21

Catholic Charities Launches in Diocese of Shreveport

by Jessica Rinaudo and Jean Dresley...................................11

Touchstones of Aging Retreat by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo..................22 Upcoming Events ........................................................................22

Respect Life Month by Kim Long....................................................12

October 2010 Calendar................................................................23

Getting Involved with Pro-Life by Roxie Tabor ...............................13

Eastern Deanery Red Mass ........................................................... 24

Bishop Michael Duca’s October Schedule Mass; Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe; 11:00 a.m.

Mass; Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe; 5:00 p.m.

OCT. 1 St. Francis Medical Center Emergency Room Expansion Groundbreaking and Blessing; St. Francis Medical Center, Monroe; 10:00 a.m.

OCT. 1-3 Bishop Lynch High School Reunion; Dallas OCT. 3 Pro-Life Banquet; Family Life Center; St. Joseph Church, Shreveport; 6:00 p.m.

OCT. 9 Mass; Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe; 4:30 p.m.

OCT. 10 Mass; Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe; 8:30 a.m.

Vocations Awareness Sunday, Speak to High School Students, Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe; 9:30 a.m.

OCT. 18-19 Financial Accessibility of K-12 Catholic Schools Conversation, hosted by the Archdiocese of Atlanta & the University of Notre Dame; Atlanta Airport Marriott.

Vocations Awareness Sunday. Speak to High School Students, Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe; 6:00 p.m.

OCT. 23 Run with the Nuns; Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Parking Lot, Bossier City; 9:00 a.m.

OCT. 13 St. Joseph School Mass; St. Joseph Church, Shreveport; 9:45 a.m.

OCT. 24 140th Anniversary Mass; St. Patrick Church, Lake Providence; 10:30 a.m.

OCT. 14 Notre Dame Seminary and St. Joseph Seminary Board of Trustees meeting; Notre Dame Seminary, New Orleans; 10:00 a.m.

OCT. 16 Dedication of St. Pius Tenth Church, Shreveport; 10:00 a.m.

Taste of Shreveport; Foxcreek Farms, Shreveport; 4:00 p.m.

OCT. 17 St. Theresa Feast Day Mass; St. Theresa Church, Delhi; 11:00 a.m.

Holy Trinity Church Festival, Shreveport; 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

OCT. 27 Diocesan Finance Council; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 12:00 p.m.

OCT. 28 Priests Day of Reflection; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

OCT. 29 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

OCT. 31 Boy Scouts of America Centennial Anniversary Celebration; Dallas

La Reflexión del Obispo por Bishop Michael G. Duca

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l domingo 3 de octubre del 2010 celebraremos en todas nuestras parroquias el Domingo de Respeto por la Vida. Se puede argumentar que es de dar tristeza que tengamos que dedicar un domingo para llamar la atención al derecho más básico que tenemos, el Derecho a Vivir. Pero también es verdad que no hay derecho más humano y digno de celebrarse. Cuando vemos un recién nacido, o un hombre hambriento Voluntarios preparan sándwiches para los que no tienen un techo en una parroquia en alimentado con dignidad, o una mujer Massachusetts. (CNS photo/Peggy Weber, The Catholic Observer) anciana sonriendo porque le dimos decisiones de vidas personales a actuar atención y cuidado, sabemos que el compromiso a la Vida y a defender a los por el respeto a la vida.

Respeto a la Vida es otro aspecto del que no pueden exigir el muy merecido Con frecuencia les decía a nuestros mandamiento de Jesús que nos amemos respeto que se les debe. Entre más seminaristas, cuando era rector del unos a otros. Esto es algo digno de poderosa escojamos la vida en nuestras Seminario de la Santísima Trinidad en celebrarse. decisiones diarias, más claro hablaremos Dallas, que el seminario no es el lugar Conozco gente que piensa que los de estas creencias en el discurso público santo que los hace santos. Más bien el “defensores de la Vida” son solamente y más influencia tendremos en cambiar el seminario se hace lugar santo solo en la los que rezan frente a clínicas de aborto mundo. medida en que los seminaristas vivan o andan en debates políticos de leyes y vidas santas. Lo mismo es verdad para escuelas. Esta, aunque es una manera nuestros testigos Católicos pro-vida. importante de ser testigo de nuestro Como iglesia seremos solamente testigos compromiso como defensores de la poderosos por la vida cuando actuemos vida, también debe ser una de nuestras pro-vida, no solamente en nuestras opciones personales diarias. mentes sino en nuestras decisiones, En el mundo de hoy, con la nuestra disposición de hablar de nuestras disminuyente influencia de la Ética creencias y en trabajar abiertamente y Cristiana, no hay duda que cada uno Se llevará a cabo el Domingo sin temor en los temas que aseguran la de nosotros será confrontado con un de Respeto por la Vida El 3 de dignidad y respeto al que cada persona momento público de ser testigo del Octubre a las 7:15 p.m. En el Respeto a la Vida desde la concepción en tiene derecho como lo define nuestra fe Católica, nuestro discipulado Cristiano. el vientre hasta una muerte respetuosa.

Centro de Vida Familiar de la Estoy trabajando con gente dedicada Puede ser en la conversación con un Parroquia de San Jose en nuestra diócesis, por ahora la mayoría amigo, o en el momento en el que tenga de Shreveport, pero pronto por toda usted mismo que guiar a sus hijos en un 211 Atlantic Avenue embarazo inesperado o en el apoyo a los la diócesis, para desarrollar un apoyo Shreveport, LA consistente y público con temas que esfuerzos de alimentar al hambriento o promuevan la vida y hablen en contra de de ayudar al anciano o al prisionero.

Para hacer reservaciones, favor de aquellos que no lo hacen.

Nuestra respuesta es en realidad El 3 de octubre del 2010, Domingo de mostrar nuestro apoyo por cada vida llamar a la oficina de la parroquia de Respeto a la Vida, voy a tener una comida humana. Es en estos momentos de San Jose, al teléfono 318-865-3581. opción y oportunidad que somos capaces en la parroquia de San Jose para celebrar, Adultos $30.00; Jovenes $20.00. Para reconocer y dar guía a los programas de cambiar ideas, o de hasta cambiar más información contactar a Roxie nosotros mismos, al hacer sacrificios por y voluntarios que son testigos en el Tabor, al teléfono, 318-773-1027 o ministerio pro-vida de nuestra diócesis. lo que creemos acerca de la santidad de enviarle un correo a roxietabor@ Todos son bienvenidos, mas detalles a la la vida y las necesidades de los demás. derecha del articulo. Este será un primer El testigo de los que oran públicamente bellsouth.net. Favor de unirse a paso a crear un consistente programa de para que termine el aborto legal, para nosotros para celebrar el Enfoque Respeto por la Vida desde la concepción terminar con la pena de muerte o para Pro-Life de la Diócesis de Shreveport. que haya leyes que ayuden al pobre, es un hasta la muerte natural.

Profundicemos en nuestro llamado que comenzó, estoy seguro, con

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Bishop’s Reflection by Bishop Michael G. Duca

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unday October 3, 2010 we will celebrate Respect Life Sunday in all of our parishes. It could be argued that it is sad we must have a Sunday set aside to call attention to the most basic right we have, the Right to Life. But it is also true that there is no more noble human right we should celebrate. When we look upon a newly Archbishop Dolan holds a child during visit to Covenant House in New York. Covenant House born infant, or a hungry man fed with is a global agency that offers food, shelter and other services to homeless and runaway youths. dignity, or a lonely elderly woman (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) smiling because of our care and attention, of life. powerless to demand the respect they we know Respect for Life is another I would often tell our seminarians, rightfully deserve. The more powerfully aspect of Jesus’ command to love one when I was rector of Holy Trinity we choose life in our daily decisions, the another. This is something to celebrate.

Seminary in Dallas, that the seminary is more we clearly speak about these beliefs I know some people think of “Right not a holy building that makes them holy. in public discourse, the more influence to Lifers” as the people who pray in Rather the seminary would be a holy we will have in changing the world. front of abortion clinics, or are active in place only when the seminarians led holy the political debate as it enters our local lives. The same is true of our Catholic laws and schools. This is certainly an witness to pro-life. We as a Church will important part of our witness, and their only be a powerful witness for life when commitment reminds us that effective we act pro-life, not only in our minds but witness begins in our commitment to in our decisions, our willingness to speak being pro-life in our daily personal out about our beliefs and in working choices. openly and unashamedly for the issues In the world today, with the lessening that insure the dignity and respect each influence of the Christian Ethic, there will be held on person has a right to expect as defined is no doubt each one of us will be Respect Life Sunday, by our Catholic faith, our Christian confronted with a public moment of discipleship. witness to our Respect for Life from October 3rd, 7:15 PM I am working with dedicated people conception in the womb to a natural at St. Joseph Church in the diocese, for now mostly in and respectful death. It may come in a Shreveport, but soon throughout the conversation with a friend, maybe in the Family Life Center diocese, to develop a consistent and moment when you must guide your own 211 Atlantic Avenue public witness to the support issues that child in an unexpected pregnancy, or to promote life and to speak out against support local efforts to meet the needs of Shreveport, LA those that do not. the hungry, the elderly or the prisoner.

On October 3, 2010, Respect Life Our response is to show our support To make reservations, please Sunday, I am having a Pro-Life Banquet for each human life. In these moments call the St. Joseph Church Office, at St. Joseph Church in Shreveport to of choice and opportunity we are able to telephone 318-865-3581. $30.00 for celebrate, recognize and give guidance to change minds, to even change ourselves, adults; $20.00 for youth. For more the programs and volunteers who witness as we make sacrifices for what we believe information contact Roxie Tabor, in the pro-life ministry of our diocese. about the sanctity of life and the needs phone 318-773-1027, or email All are welcome, details to the right.

This of others. The witness of those who pray will be a first step to creating a consistent publicly for the end of legalized abortion, roxietabor@bellsouth.net. Please witness of our Respect for Life from for the end of the death penalty or for join in celebrating the Diocese of conception to natural death. laws and ordinances to help the poor is a Shreveport’s Pro-Life Event.

Let us deepen our commitment to life call that began, I am sure, in decisions in and to standing up for the ones who are their personal lives to act for the respect 5 4

Making a Difference

John Manno, Jr. Named March of Dime’s Citizen of the Year

by John Mark Willcox, Director of Communications

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t. Pius X parishioner John Manno, Jr. will spend November 11th as the host of the North Louisiana Division of March of Dimes annual Citizen of the Year awards banquet and silent action to be held at the River Dome in Bossier City. Each year, the March of Dimes honors an outstanding citizen whose distinguished leadership and devoted service to the community has contributed greatly to the quality of life within Louisiana.

“My religion has played a big part in this honor as men of God like Msgr. Earl Provenza, Msgr. Carson LaCaze and Fr. Charles Glorioso have preached for me to love my fellow man, and when in a time of need, I would want those in the community to say I was there. I believe in what the March of Dimes does to prevent birth defects, premature births and infant mortality and they do great work here in our area.”

Your Catholic Connection surely agrees with this choice of leadership by the March of Dimes and wishes to congratulate John Manno, Jr. for this special honor as a difference maker within our diocese.

6 7 Catholic Connection October 2010

Susan Skidmore Professes First Vows

by School Sisters of Notre Dame

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n July 31, 2010, Sister Susan Skidmore professed First Vows as a School Sister of Notre Dame at St. Mary of the Pines in Chatawa, MS. SSNDs, friends and family witnessed Sister Susan’s response to radically follow Christ and respond to God’s call in her life through the vows of consecrated celibacy, gospel poverty and apostolic obedience.

Dallas Provincial Leader, Sr. Addie Lorraine Walker, ssnd, accepted Sister Susan’s vows and welcomed her into the community on behalf of School Sisters of Notre Dame. Longtime friend, Fr. Mark Watson, pastor of Jesus Good Shepherd Church in Monroe, was the Mass celebrant. The celebration centered around Eucharist, as Christ being the center of our lives, and the Gospel’s words which apply to all present to be “rich in what matters to God.” During her reflection, Sister Addie Lorraine Walker explained each of the vows, as described in “You are Sent,” the Congregation’s Constitution.

The daughter of Colonel Lowell Skidmore, retired, and Elizabeth Skidmore, Sister Susan moved frequently in her early years, eventually choosing Louisiana as her home. During her teenage years, while attending Catholic school, she converted to Catholicism. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of California-Santa Barbara, and a law degree from Louisiana State University Law School, Baton Rouge.

Sr. Susan’s knowledge and relationship with God took off in the 8th grade with her first contact with the Catholic faith at Catholic school.

Gradually and almost imperceptibly, Sr. Susan felt called to become a Catholic from this great love for God and others she witnessed in the sisters, teachers and other students. She was baptized and confirmed that year. At the same time, she felt a strong call within her to become a sister. She was advised to wait a while and finish high school before pursuing that call. About every four or so years after that initial profoundly felt sense of God’s “call” to religious life, she felt that same unmistakable voice within her, which reached a point where she had to answer it during a retreat

Sister Susan Skidmore, from Jesus the Good Shepherd Church in Monroe, took First Profession of Vows.

at the School Sisters of Notre Dame Retreat Center in Chatawa, MS, in 1998. Witnessing how the Sisters loved each other, and their commitment as dedicated educators striving for unity and reconciliation among all people, she began her journey into religious life with the School Sisters of Notre Dame.

Prior to entering the SSND community, Sr. Susan was a law clerk, practiced law in private practice, and taught several courses at the university level in Leesville, LA. After four years, she moved to Monroe where she worked for the next 13 years as a Regional Staff Attorney for the Louisiana Department of Social Services, in the child protection/foster care area.

In 2004, she joined the SSND community as a postulant, living in the Formation House in San Antonio, TX, teaching and practicing law as an instructor at St. Mary University’s Law School Clinical Program. As a novice, Sr. Susan lived and ministered at the SSND Interprovincial Novitiate in St. Louis, MO. She spent her Apostolic Novitiate experience at Notre Dame of Dallas Schools in Dallas.

Established in 1961, the Dallas Province of the School Sisters of Notre Dame is one of six North American provinces of an international congregation of women religious who live in community and serve the mission of Jesus through educational ministry.

World Mission Sunday

by Fr. Rothell Price, jcl, vg Announcement Dates: October 3 & 10 Collection Dates: October 23 & 24 orld Mission Sunday, organized by the Propagation of the Faith, is a day set aside for Catholics worldwide to recommit themselves to the Church’s missionary activity through prayer and sacrifice. This year World Mission Sunday will be celebrated on October 23 and 24.

Every year the needs of missions of the Catholic Church grow.

New dioceses are formed, new seminaries are opened for the growing number of young men hearing Christ’s call to follow Him as priests, areas devastated by war or natural disaster are rebuilt, and other areas, long suppressed, are opened up to hear the message of Christ and His Church. That is why the involvement and commitment of Catholics from around the world is so urgently needed. Offerings from Catholics in the United States, on World Mission Sunday and throughout the year, are combined with offerings to the Propagation of the Faith worldwide.

Mission dioceses – about 1,100 at this time – receive regular annual assistance from the funds collected. In addition, these mission dioceses submit requests to the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples for assistance, among other needs, for catechetical programs, seminaries, the work of Religious Communities, for communication and transportation needs, and for the building of chapels, churches, orphanages and schools.

These needs are matched with the funds gathered in each year.

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Father Seelos Day in Louisiana

Nun helps coordinate daily lunch for children in Peruvian town suffering from malnutrition. (CNS photo/Barbara Fraser)

The world’s national directors of the Propagation of the Faith vote on these requests, matching the funds available with the greatest needs. These funds are distributed in their entirety to mission dioceses throughout the world.

So few of us have the opportunity to be actual, traveling missionaries. We can help those who are such by our prayers and donations. There is no higher purpose than God’s glory and the salvation of souls. Be co-workers with the Lord in helping bring a great number of people to Christ.

How well did the diocese do?

Home Missions Appeal (May 22 & 23) Peter’s Pence (June 26 & 27)

Seelos Day: 1. Priests and deacons can discuss Father Seelos’ traits in a homily and how people have sought t is not every day his intercession. that a government Priests can leader declares download the Mass a proclamation for Proper for his Feast a Louisiana priest. day by visiting the That’s exactly what website www.seelos.

Govenor Bobby org or by viewing Jindal did in 2008, the Official Seelos proclaiming October Feast Day Liturgical 5 “Father Seelos Day Texts online at in Louisiana,” attesting http://www.seelos. that “Father Seelos org/seelos_liturgy. worked tirelessly to html comfort those afflicted 2. Include a history by the New Orleans lesson on how yellow yellow fever epidemic fever attacked the of 1867, until he population and what himself was struck October 5 was declared by Govenor good people did to down by the disease Bobby Jindal as Father Seelos Day in help the sick and and died on October Louisiana. Father Seelos is pictured. dying.

4, 1867.” It further 3. Religious education teachers notes that the sacred remains of this can make available Father Seelos’ 10 revered Redemptorist missionary “rest practical steps to holiness (found on the in the national shrine of St. Mary’s home page of http://www.seelos.org/) Assumption Church.” or http://www.seelos.org/lifeSayings.

Suggestions for celebrating Father

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$ 24,641.62 $ 28,031.67

html, and invite students to draw Father Seelos and explain the picture.

4. Show the movie Seelos, Tireless Intercessor. Make the DVD available in your library.

5. Inform parishioners of the Seelos feast day Mass on Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Assumption Church in New Orleans through bulletin inserts and flyers or print from this link: http://www.seelos. org/2010_10_03_Seelos_Mass.pdf.

Visitors from across the country attend this annual event.

6. Encourage families or groups to make a pilgrimage to the National Shrine in New Orleans. Visit the new Seelos “Walk of Life” Interactive Exhibit in the Seelos Welcome Center and Gift Shop that opened a year ago at 919 Josephine Street in New Orleans. To arrange a group tour, contact Joyce Bourgeois at 504-525-2499.

The official Seelos website www. seelos.org offers a wealth of information on his life, beatification, sayings, prayers, etc., including videos and publications. For questions, call: 504525-2495 or email: Father Byron Miller, C.Ss.R. bmiller@seelos.org 7 6

Meet Father Rothell Price, New Vicar General for the Diocese of Shreveport

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y journey to the priesthood began quite some time ago.

As a non-Catholic child growing up in the big and wondrous city of Chicago, I was drawn to the Catholic Church. I would often stand outside Catholic churches and watch the priest at the altar and the people in the pews through the open doors.

I was especially drawn to what was happening at the altar. There was something about the altar, the vessels and the prayerful activity of the priest that captured me. My body was rooted to the spot, unable and unwilling to break away from the sacred moment I had stumbled upon. The people seemed to be mysteriously engaged in what was going on.

Even in the powerfully overwhelming Chicago winters, that little glimpse into the church when a person entered or left was a moment not to be missed. It was worth suffering the cold for. That’s how the Lord got me. He drew me in and I have been a willing captive ever since. On those dark, cold winter nights I felt a kinship with the little match girl from the Hans Christian Anderson story and Moses and his burning bush.

I was a non-Catholic living in the midst of many Catholics. I did not become Catholic until my college years because I did not have the confidence to walk up to a stranger and tell them I wanted to be a Catholic.

When I arrived at Grambling State University for college, most of my closest friends were Catholics from central and south Louisiana. I began to hang out at the Catholic Newman Center with them. In my senior year I told Father Jim Lyke that I wanted to be a priest. He was extremely delighted and after much joy and excitement told me I would first have to become Catholic.

I began my instructions in the Catholic faith with Fr. Jim and continued those instructions under the

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mentorship of Father Ed Branch.

I spent six wonderful years at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Saint Meinrad, Indiana. I was ordained a deacon at Saint Benedict the Black Catholic Church and Newman Center in Grambling on November 21, 1987 on the Feast of the Presentation of Mary. I was ordained a priest at the Cathedral of Saint John Berchmans in Shreveport on June 18, 1988.

Father John Pardue and I were ordained together as the first ordinations for the then two-year-old Diocese of Shreveport.

All my priestly formation and assignments have been under the spiritual, maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

I have a happy history with the Blessed Virgin Mary. My diaconate ordination was on the Feast of the Presentation of Mary. My first parish assignment was at St. Mary of the Pines Church. My first pastorate was at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church.

I worked in the Catholic Center under patronage of the Holy Family, Jesus, Mary and Joseph. I served for a year as temporary administrator at St. Benedict the Black Church who had a special devotion to Mary and at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Farmerville. I then served at St. Jude Church in Bossier City, being united to Mary through Jude, a relative of the Lord Jesus. I returned to St. Mary of the Pines Church as pastor, again under the direct care of Holy Mary, Mother of God. Now I am again at the Catholic Center, once again under the care of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.

Through my involvement with our Spanish speaking brothers and sisters I fall under the care of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

There are many things I love about being a priest. First and foremost, I love basking in the love and care of God. The Lord Jesus is my best and longest friend. We do everything and go everywhere together. When it’s time for Mass, I am thrilled to be hanging out with God’s other sons and daughters. Mass is like entering an entirely other space and dimension for me. I love talking to and doing things with God’s young and little people. It is awesome watching them make the connection between ordinary things and the Lord.

I like bringing the grace of God and the care of the Church to people who are suffering, troubled and grieving. I know I could be happy, “well-to-do” and successful doing other things, but none of those things would bring me the joy and strength I experience as a priest of the Lord.

In my new ministry, I am the Vicar General of the Diocese of Shreveport, and Moderator of the Curia. Vicar General means I am Bishop Michael Duca’s Chief of Staff and Administrative Assistant. I assist Bishop Duca in his care of the diocese by caring for the priests, assisting the laity and taking care of those administrative tasks the bishop gives to me so he is free to be present to the people of our diocese.

My ministry as Moderator of the Curia means I assist the Catholic Center staff in carrying out their various ministries. Our many different ministries and activities serve the one purpose of proclaiming life in Christ.

We Have a Missal!

by Dianne Rachal, Director of the Office of Worship

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his is the news we have been waiting for! On August 20 Cardinal Francis George, OMI, Archbishop of Chicago and USCCB President, announced that we have received the final text of the third edition of the Roman Missal.

Implementation of the new text will take place on the First Sunday of Advent, 2011, that is, on November 27, 2011.

All parishes will use the third edition of the Roman Missal on that date. “From that date forward, no other edition of the Roman Missal may be used in the dioceses of the United States.”

Some modifications were made since the text’s original approval in 2008: 1. The words of absolution in the Penitential Act have been modified to maintain the text in the current

Sacramentary.

2. “I believe” has been added at three points in the Profession of faith.

3. The final doxology of the Eucharistic Prayer has been slightly altered.

4. The Memorial Acclamation “Christ has died” was not approved.

Our diocese has an implementation plan for the third edition of the Roman Missal.

Up to this point we have been in the remote phase of catechesis on the translation.

We have been methodically laying the foundation for this announcement over the past three years with keynote speakers at liturgical conferences, articles in the Catholic Connection, the acquisition of resource materials as they become available, the creation of presentations on the new texts, a wealth of information and materials distributed to the priests, and presentations to groups around the diocese.

Now that the implementation date has been announced, we are in the proximate phase of catechesis for the new translation.

Distribution of materials and formation opportunities will increase. Members of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission will attend the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC)National Meeting in Alexandria this month. Many of our priests will attend the BCDW-FDLC Workshop for priests prior to the national meeting. Our diocese will host a Music Workshop on February 5, 2010 where WLP and CMAA will present music settings for the new translation.

This is an exciting time in the liturgical history of our Church. We are doubly blessed in that the implementation will occur during our 25th Anniversary Celebration year. The Office of Worship continues to offer to be a resource on the new translation to priests and parishes in the diocese. If you want to schedule a presentation on the third edition of the Roman Missal for your group, large or small, contact the Office of Worship: (318) 868-4441, or drachal@dioshpt.org.

Various Resources Will Help US Church Become Familiar with New Missal

by Catholic News Service

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ASHINGTON (CNS) --Priests, parish groups and individual Catholics wanting to become more familiar with the Roman Missal set to go into use in the United States Nov. 27, 2011, will be able to choose from a wealth of resources. The U.S. bishops’ Secretariat of Divine Worship, the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions, and some bishops and liturgists are rolling out a wide variety of audio, visual and print materials designed to ease the transition from second to the third “typical edition” of the Roman Missal. Because the change has been anticipated for many years, most of the resources were already available or will be soon after the Aug. 20 announcement of the U.S. implementation date on the first Sunday of Advent in 2011. Perhaps the most ambitious project is the 80-hour video resource called “Become One Body One Spirit in Christ,” produced by Fraynework Multimedia, a nonprofit venture of the Sisters of Mercy of Australia, for the International Commission on English in the Liturgy. Filmed in churches in Ireland, England, Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa and the U.S. cities of New York, Washington and Los Angeles, the video series is organized around five themes -- exploring the Mass through the ages, receiving the English translation, crafting the art of liturgy, celebrating the Eucharist and living the eucharistic life.

New English translation of Roman Missal.

(CNS photo/Paul Haring)

Worshippers at Spanish-Language Masses in US Won’t Use New Missal Yet

by Catholic News Service

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ASHINGTON -- Although the third edition of the Roman Missal will become standard at English-language Masses in the United States beginning in Advent 2011, those participating in Spanishlanguage Masses here will have to wait a little longer for a new translation.

While the Vatican has given its “recognitio,” or confirmation, to the English translation that will be used in the United States, the Mexican bishops’ conference is still awaiting approval of its translation of the Latin text of the missal, said Fr. Hilgartner, associate director of the U.S. bishops’ Secretariat on Divine Worship. Once the Mexican text receives approval, the U.S. bishops “plan to take a good look” at it and might publish a Spanish-language edition of the Roman Missal for the United States based on that translation, although no final decision has been made, he said. But the Mexican bishops are about two years behind the United States in the translation and approval process, Father Hilgartner added. Even after the new Spanish-language text comes into use, most Catholics attending U.S. Masses in Spanish will not hear as many differences in wording as English-speaking Catholics will. That’s because the Spanish missal translations currently in use do not diverge as sharply from the original Latin as some English translations did.

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School News 5

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6 1. St. Joseph School Students Tour Washington

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he St. Joseph School Class of 2010 had the wonderful opportunity to visit our nation’s capitol for their annual eighth grade trip. As part of their fiveday adventure, the students and their chaperones visited many historical landmarks and monuments including the Lourdes Grotto at Mount St. Mary Seminary, Arlington National Cemetery, the Smithsonian Museums, the Capitol, the Holocaust Museum, Mount Vernon and the National Basilica. The students kept busy throughout the week and returned with a renewed appreciation for our country’s history.

2. Loyola Students go to D.C.

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Loyola College Prep Students David Pettiette, Nell McGowen, Alexis Jackson, Maria Woodley and Zach Dubiel enjoyed a week in Washington D.C. this summer as delegates to Democracy in Action sponsored by the Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation. Students engaged in a model congress and enjoyed many of the attractions in D.C.

10 11 Catholic Connection October 2010

3. Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy Gets Foster Grandmothers

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LBSA has foster grandmothers in every one of our classrooms this year and the difference their presence creates is wonderful. The Foster Grandparent Program is sponsored by the Caddo Council on Aging and allows retirees to work in the classroom four days a week. These ladies assist our students in developing their language arts, math and social skills. They also have a great love of children and this is truly evident in the work they do.

4. Our Lady of Fatima School Certified in Reading Program

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t the end of the 09-10 school year, OLF School was certified as a Master School in Reading by the Renaissance Learning/Accelerated Reader Program.

The students, teachers and parents worked hard to achieve the AR goals that led to this certification. Thank you to Margie Godwin and the Carmel Hill Foundation for their generous support of our reading program at Fatima.

5. St. John Berchmans School Kicks Off New School Year

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ather Peter Mangum blessed the all the classrooms, students and teachers on the first day of St. John Berchmans School. It has been a fantastic start to the school year. The SJB cheerleaders attended cheer camp and learned cheers to perform at the games. Pep Squad is also being offered to the elementary grades. SJB is also proud to announce the addition of a new Drama Club this year where students will be able to learn and perform in plays throughout the year.

6. Jesus the Good Shepherd School Partners with LSU Ag

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GS has partnered with the LSU Ag Center to provide an outdoor classroom for students in grades PreK3 6. This will include a school garden with plots for each grade which will be planted, cultivated and harvested by students.

The plants will be cleaned and cooked in our school cafeteria as a way to not only promote healthy eating, but also teach the students the health and environmental benefits of organic gardening.

Catholic Charities Launches in the Diocese of Shreveport

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor & Jean Dresley, Director of Catholic Charities

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fter many months of research, planning and interviewing, the Diocese of Shreveport’s new Catholic Charities organization is off the ground.

Headed by Executive Director Jean Dresley, Catholic Charities aims to improve life for the impoverished in our area.

Catholic Charities works on a local level to provide social services and programs to meet the particular needs of a diocese under the auspices of the bishop.

The goal is to support families, reduce poverty, promote human dignity and empower local communities. The national office, Catholic Charities USA, promotes and supports the local organizations in each diocese.

Every local Catholic Charities responds to the needs of the area, so all have different ministries. In the Diocese of Shreveport, Catholic Charities will begin by supporting four main services: • Emergency Assistance for those who find themselves in crisis and need assistance to meet the most basic needs like rent, utilities and food. While other organizations like the Society of St. Vincent de Paul are actively doing this now, the need is so great that Catholic Charities hopes to replicate and expand their work.

• Disaster Response to provide assistance to survivors of natural disasters and coordinate aid with each parish and service providers in the community.

This will be an important program given where we live. Louisiana has been hit hard by hurricanes, tornadoes and flooding in the past. Catholic Charities must be prepared at all times to assist those caught by disaster. Catholic Charities Jean Dresley, Executive Director of will emphasize assistance in Catholic Charities for the Diocese both basic needs and long of Shreveport. term recovery.

• Parish Social Ministry program will assist each parish in its commitment to the poor and needy. Catholic Charities will develop a training program to help parishioners deepen their faith through participation in works of charity, peace and justice. Organizing a parish disaster response team may be one possible outreach effort for a parish.

• Immigration Assistance to provide legal services and advocacy to immigrants. The Hispanic community is growing in the diocese. In 2006 the Hispanic population in the Diocese of Shreveport was 1.78%. By 2009 the population had grown to 2.16% with the largest concentration of Hispanics located in Bossier Parish with 5.2%.

To get Catholic Charities up and running, Jean Dresley was recently hired as the Executive Director.

“My parents taught me that there was no distinction between what we believed as Catholics on Sunday and what we did the rest of the week,” said Dresley.

Jean received a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Wheelock College in Boston and received her Master’s Degree from Columbia University in New York. She also has a wealth of social work experience.

“I have a lot of ‘direct-service’ experience, everything from working with street-kids in Ecuador and troubled youth and their families here in Shreveport, to grief counseling, to providing hospice services to the terminally ill and case management to the physically disabled,” said Dresley.

Jean has also been on the receiving end of disaster relief. A transplant to Shreveport following Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, she was received with open arms by the people of St. Joseph Church in Shreveport.

Jean’s wealth of experience will benefit the diocese. Over 22% of the people living in the Diocese of Shreveport are living below the federal poverty level according to the 2008 census. In East Carroll parish, a staggering 43.7% of people live in poverty. In the feasibility study conducted about bringing Catholic Charities to the Diocese, Sr. Pat Cairns wrote, “The Diocese could undertake almost any area of social service and not interfere with other agencies in their outreach. The need is so great and the resources are so few, that any help in any area would be welcomed by most, including members of St. Vincent de Paul Society and heads of social service agencies. Catholic Charities has such a marvelous opportunity here in the Diocese of Shreveport to be a positive agent of change for the poor and marginalized and to answer Jesus’ call to love thy neighbor.”

Catholic Charities reaches out to all those who need its services, not just Catholics.

“As a Catholic social service agency we will be reaching out in different ways to people who may not know about our faith but they will come to know us by our good works and concern for them,” said Dresley. “Christ’s message is one of love and compassion and Catholic Charities will be a great agent of this loving compassion to all people of our diocese.”

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Respect Life Month

“...each time we approach

the Eucharist we are making a pro-life decision, a decision for our lives! ”

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

ast year I had the privilege of teaching our eleventh graders for their final year of Confirmation class. I say privilege because that’s exactly what it turned out to be. One of the first topics we discussed was “pro-life.” I inwardly groaned because their understanding of prolife was limited to whether or not abortion was “ok”. They all thought it wasn’t. However, their vision was so focused they were dumbfounded when I brought up the fact that the death penalty was also part of the pro-life, as is assisted suicide.

I reminded them that our Church teaches and believes that life begins at conception and ends at natural death. Needless to say we had a really powerful discussion. I tried to take them a step further and asked them if they had thought about the opportunity we are given each day to “choose life” in a million small ways. In scripture God tells us in no uncertain terms: “I put before you life and death, choose life.”

For people in the 17-18 year-old range, that can include everything from being nice to a person they don’t know to not gossiping, not putting substances in their bodies that will hinder life, not driving recklessly and not putting themselves in situations where the abortion question will arise. We talked about shopping and the responsibility of consumerism. Our discussions took us in a million directions. It was one of the best teaching as well as learning experiences I have ever had.

A few weeks ago a young woman expecting her first child

12 13 Catholic Connection October 2010

came to me for baptism preparation. I was going through all the paces when I looked up and really saw her. I realized I was coming full circle. I had known this woman literally her entire life. She was an infant in a carrier seat when her mother and I were in RCIA together at St. Mary of the Pines. I was humbled and overjoyed that God had given me this opportunity to share these thoughts on baptism with her. I told her it would be her responsibility to bring her son up in the ways of the faith.

She nodded. I said, “You know each time we approach the Eucharist we are making a pro-life decision, a decision for our lives! You are promising God, the Church, and your child that you will model our faith…for life!”

As I was typing this article I had a call from a friend back home. The news was sad, a young woman died on her way to work, the result of a tragic auto accident. The parents now live in Baton Rouge and a couple of friends went down to help with arrangements. They filled in the gaps of money, time and presence! The parents didn’t have sufficient funds for the funeral that was taken care of; they were bereft and far from “home”, home came to them in the form of friends, who didn’t leave until they were certain that the family would get through this awful time.

I believe that we have the opportunity to make pro-life decisions all day every day. I like to point out to my students that there are all kinds of ways to be “for life” as Catholics, as

human beings, as followers of God, as family, as friends, as friends to ourselves.

In that wonderful movie Fiddler on the Roof, Teviah, the main character, sings “L’Chaim! To Life!” with gusto, joy, and tears. We can do the same whether it’s being kind, being stern, detaching with love, praying for wisdom, singing rather than grumbling and crying because it’s healthy, confessing our joys as well as our sorrows and receiving the gift of life through the Eucharist, beginning our day with the morning offering and really living that love Jesus talked about. It’s a challenge but also a directive! Choose life!

Intercessions for Life Each month the United States Conference of Bishops publishes weekly “Intercessions for Life” suggesting areas of particular need for our prayers.

In October the suggested intercessions are as follows.

Please consider these intercessions in your prayers this Respect Life Month.

October 3

TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME For mothers considering abortion: That they will find the courage and support to parent or to make an adoption plan for their child; We pray to the Lord.

Getting Involved with Pro-Life

October 10

TWENTY-EIGHTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME For the poor: That through the generous love of their brothers and sisters in Christ, their material and spiritual needs will be met; We pray to the Lord.

by Roxie Tabor, VITA, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport

here are many aspects to the Diocese of Shreveport's pro-life ministry. Pro-life is a core component of the way we live our lives as Catholics.

Talks are available at pro-life programs throughout the diocese. The openness to the gift of life for all married couples was the subject of St. John Berchman’s One Life group’s July sponsorship of Fertility Appreciation with Medical Applications.

Pro-life also includes those who pray for an end to abortion both in public and in private prayer sessions. The VITA group at St. Joseph Church in Shreveport participates in this ministry.

Many of us are currently participating in the SheveportBossier community’s 40 Days for Life Campaign going on this month.

Pro-life also includes the care for all who are at risk of being treated as unworthy of love and concern. Our parishes have programs addressing the poor, those who live on the edges of our society, the imprisoned, the abused, and those who have given up hope or feel for any reason neglect.

If you work with Meals on Wheels; education support services; care of the abused or the imprisoned; or carry Communion and Prayer to the sick, aged or homebound, you are pro-life. If you work with youth programs to help them grow in their faith and love of others, you are prolife. If you have given to St. Vincent de Paul Society, Peter’s Pence, mission funds, Christmas stockings programs, diapers for babies drives, you are pro-life.

In fact, each of us in our daily interactions with others have opportunities to demonstrate being pro-life. Blessed Mother Teresa said it best when she said “Do small things with great love”.

October 17

TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME For the sick and dying and their loved ones: that when they are tempted to lose hope, the Blessed Mother will help restore their joy in the promise of eternal life; We pray to the Lord.

October 24

THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

For all young parents and families, especially those struggling financially: that they will have hope and faith in God’s goodness and be given the strength to persevere; We pray to the Lord.

October 31

THIRTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME For all who suffer from the evils of slavery, human trafficking, and other abuses of human dignity: that they will know justice and freedom in this life; We pray to the Lord.

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Divine Mercy and the Death Penalty

by Most Rev. Robert W. Finn

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The greater the misery of a soul, the greater its right to My mercy.... On the cross, the fountain of My Mercy was opened wide by the lance for all souls—no one have I excluded!” (Diary of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska: Divine Mercy in My Soul, 1182) “Help us O God of our salvation;... according to thy great power, preserve those doomed to die!” (Psalm 79:9, 11) In January of 1999, Pope John Paul II made a pastoral visit to St. Louis. When he met with Governor Mel Carnahan of Missouri, the Holy Father asked him to commute the death sentence of Darrell Mease, who was scheduled to be executed in the next weeks. Carnahan granted the Pope’s wish, saying he was moved by the Pope’s appeal for mercy.

The Pope did not request a reevaluation of the merits of the condemned man’s case. Rather, he presented a simple and straightforward petition for mercy. The sentence was changed from death by lethal injection to life imprisonment without parole.

The common good of society remained protected from the perpetrator. Justice was not confounded, but a higher purpose was served in putting aside the irreversible remedy of death.

The Church’s stance on capital punishment has always been based on the responsibility to protect society. St. Thomas Aquinas says that the legitimate civil authority is obliged to defend people from a dangerous criminal. At the same time, he cautions, “The execution of the wicked is forbidden wherever ... the wicked are not clearly distinguished from the good.”’ Besides reminding us of wellknown cases where innocent people were

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condemned to die, this should remind us that God told St. Faustina that “Mankind will not as Christians we are urged not to see anyone have peace until it turns with trust to My mercy.” as irredeemably wicked.

In the Divine Mercy, God receives and An Alternative to the Death Penalty quenches human vengeance in Jesus’ own Prior to his intervention in St. Louis, wounded Heart. In this Heart, which is an Pope John Paul had laid out his case for the abyss of love, mercy overcomes hatred. Mercy limitation of the use of the death penalty in brings healing that is impossible on a merely his encyclical The Gospel of Life (Evangelium human level. Divine Mercy can restore hope, Vitae) (1995) and in his extraordinary because it flows from the heart of the Risen 1997 modification of the Catechism of the Christ who, once and for all, has vanquished Catholic Church (CCC). He still allowed the finality of death. The deep truth that faith for the application of the death penalty as teaches is that only in the context of mercy— a just choice that authority may make in its God’s Mercy and our own forgiveness and responsibility to safeguard society from the mercy—can we, as wounded human men and unjust aggressor. Yet the revised text goes women, find healing and hope. “Blessed are on to say: “Today, in fact, as a consequence the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” of the possibilities which the state has for (Mt 5:7). effectively preventing crime, by rendering one who has committed an offense incapable A Prayer of Reparation The Chaplet of Divine Mercy, which God of doing harm—without definitively taking away from him the possibility of redeeming gave to the world through St. Faustina, is a beautiful prayer that has a powerful efficacy to himself—the cases in which the execution repair the hurt wrought by sin. As we respond of the offender is an absolute necessity are very rare, if not practically nonexistent.” The to God’s call to continuing conversion, the invocations of the Chaplet may be offered as a sworn responsibility of authority to secure the common good is not easily laid aside. But litany of reparation. With our hearts turned to here the Church, convinced that society can the Father, we use the Chaplet to profess and invoke God’s Mercy accomplished in Christ’s be protected without executing dangerous criminals, charges us to look to a less violent, sorrowful Passion. We unite ourselves with less final remedy. The Catechism directs us to the sacrifice of His Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity, in atonement for our sins and those a solution that preserves the common good without definitively curtailing the individual of the whole world.

When human efforts seem futile and good of the perpetrator, offering him the human solutions leave us empty, we pray opportunity for redemption. Each man, no the Chaplet to beg for a new beginning: the matter how sinful and flawed, has a final healing of the damage done by our sins and purpose and call to salvation, one that we ought not too easily or unnecessarily preempt. those of others. Our plea for Mercy will not fail to reach the Father.

The above is the “ought” for laying aside the death penalty: legitimate authority can Christ’s Execution and the Gift of fulfill its responsibility using lesser but Divine Mercy sufficient means for protecting the common The Church’s annual novena to the Divine good. But we should add that the argument Mercy begins on Good Friday, the day of of Divine Mercy, while never violating justice, the execution of Jesus. The hour of mercy transcends the human “ought.” is the hour of His saving sacrifice. This is Mercy Surpasses Justice and when blood and water gushed out for our Heals Hurts salvation. “On the cross, the fountain of The correct dispensing of justice always My Mercy was opened by the lance for all seeks to provide something which is well souls—no one have I excluded.” (Diary, suited to the person and the circumstance.

1182) This is the moment that shook the Justice is giving each person his “due.” (CCC, world and stirred the faith of the pagan no. 1807) When Jesus freely submitted to centurion to say, “Truly, this was the Son of human “justice,” He provided by means of God.” (Mt 27:54) His Cross an act of justification that, because As we seek a reason to put aside the He was divine, satisfied all our sins. practice of the death penalty, perhaps the God did not abolish justice. Rather, He best motive is our desire to imitate God in intended by the offering of His Son to purge His Mercy toward those for whom Jesus human justice of any sense of wrath or died. Mary, Mother of Mercy, pray for us and revenge. Time and again we see that violence teach us to show mercy to others. begets violence in a seeming unending spiral. www.usccb.org/prolife

Respecting Life with an Open Heart

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especting life presents itself in all forms. Tom and Katie Aranda, members of St. Joseph Church in Shreveport, have taken the charge to respect life to heart. Recently, Tom and Katie adopted their son James. Shortly after they matched with his birth parents, Katie found out she was pregnant. The couple is elated about the opportunity to share their lives with these children.

When did you first consider adoption?

We always planned to have a big family and to start right away after our wedding.

During our engagement, we discussed adoption and were in agreement that we would adopt when the time was right. After having fertility problems initially and then having our first miscarriage, we began the process to adopt. We had to pause the process because we got pregnant for a second time, but then we had a second miscarriage and after much prayer, we completed the initial adoption process.

Why did adoption seem the right choice?

After having fertility issues and miscarriages, we knew the most common fertility “treatments” such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) were against the teachings of the Church and we believed God was leading us on a different path. Not all aspects of the common fertility treatments respect life or the theology of the body and we did not want to compromise our beliefs in any way. Adoption is such a “pro-life” choice for birth parents and adoptive parents and we couldn’t think of a more beautiful way to start our family. We always remained open to life. Open to life to us means open to all life, whether genetically related to us or not.

How do you think adoption plays into the idea of “Respect Life?”

Well, we credit James’s birth parents for respecting life in the fact that they chose to care for him nine months in the womb instead of aborting him. They wanted the best for him and respected his life so much that they placed him for adoption. For us, adoption shows people that all children are blessings from God, no matter what the initial circumstances. We couldn’t imagine life without James. His life is a precious gift from God and his birth parents. He is one of our greatest joys!

What is one of the most positive experiences of the adoption process?

When we decided to adopt, we had to put

Tom and Kaite Aranda stand with Fr. Matthew Long and hold their adopted son James at his baptism. James’s onesie says “Proof That Miracles Do Happen.”

together a profile about our marriage and our family. We learned a lot about ourselves by trying to find the right words to tell potential birth parents about how we lived, what we liked, our beliefs, our Faith and how we would raise our children.

Another really positive experience for us was when James was born. We met him when he was only two hours old and were able to have a room in the hospital to take care of him until he could be discharged to us.

What were some of the challenges?

Adoption in a lot of ways is a “leap of faith.” We realized more so than ever that God was in control of our lives and our family. Birth moms and birth dads make all the decisions in most of today’s adoptions.

James’s birth parents were able to look over many adoption profiles and choose who they thought would be the best parents for James.

We were waiting on pins and needles to see if they would still accept us when I found out I was pregnant. They decided if and when they wanted to meet us prior to his birth and how much contact via email and phone they wanted. We chose to do a semi-open adoption, which means that we send updates and pictures through the agency at regular times during the year. But they still had the option of not choosing us if they wanted a fully open adoption. His birth mom decided on how she wanted things in the hospital when she delivered him. There were quite a few things that were left in God’s hands.

And at least once or twice, we wondered if the adoption would really happen. We spent many nights in the adoration chapel praying for patience, James’s birth parents, and God’s

will to be done.

Anything you would like to add about having two babies and the excitement/ joys/anxieties?

Our story begins with the two children we lost in two miscarriages, John Paul and Grace. Their lives began at conception and ended after about 10 weeks. We have asked these two little blessings to pray for us constantly. When we lost Grace in December 2009, it was a very difficult time.

God wrapped his arms around us and led us to more joyous times. We activated with the adoption agency at the end of March 2010, then two weeks later found out I was pregnant. Three weeks later we matched with James’s birth parents. Tom was in Alaska for the Air Force when I found out about both miracles. When I found out I was pregnant, I tried to get a hold of him by phone, but could not. So I went to Mass to speak to Father Lombard. I told him I was pregnant and he was the first to know, before my husband. I wanted a blessing for this child and I think he was a little surprised to be the first person to know. I think I went to the top of his prayer list after our short conversation.

We are so excited about having James and baby number two so close in age. They will be about 5 months apart. We feel so blessed to have these two undeserved miracles. We hope that these two are just the beginning of our family. We plan to adopt again in the future, as it has been such a positive experience for us. We would love to adopt older children, too, when one of us can stay at home full time.

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What’s New at St. Pius Semptember Marked Beginning of New X Child Development Diaconate Class by Deacon Clary Nash Center

by Ruth Burdges, St. Pius X Church

Deacon formation class, students with the Dallas School of Ministry and course instructors on the first day of class in Ruston. (Photo by Deacon Clary Nash).

Children at St. Pius X Child Development Center.

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e at St. Pius X Child Development Center have been real busy in the past year, working on program structure, teacher education and socio-emotional interaction with the children in our care. It has always been our goal to provide the best childcare for the children in our area. As a Class A center we are required to meet certain standards. We have elected to strive for even higher standards by participating in the Louisiana Quality Start Program.

This program rewards centers that can meet certain levels of criteria with monetary rewards. We as a learning center feel it is to the child’s benefit that our teachers strive to meet new goals in their education. Understanding how teachers can expand a child’s learning threshold results in a solid and stimulating program structure.

This year’s goals have been very rewarding. We now have two teachers who have their Child Development Associate credentials, along with the Director and Asst. Director, and three more who are taking classes toward the same goal. We have also earned another star in the program for having scored high marks on classroom assessments. We are currently getting ready to start the process of continuing up the Quality Start ladder.

We ask for your prayers and support and extend our appreciation to our church parish for allowing us this wonderful opportunity.

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eptember 11, 2010, marked a hopeful day for the Diocese of Shreveport as it started the third Permanent Diaconate Formation Program in our Diocese. The Formation Program, which is hosted in Ruston, will last four years.

Twenty-five men have completed the application and screening phase of the process and have been admitted to the Aspirancy year.

A portion of the academic program is open to others and 18 have registered to join in the University of Dallas academic section of training as they invest in the future of our church and the religious education of our children.

Pope Paul VI restored the Order of Deacon in the Apostolic Letter, Sacrum Diaconatus Ordinem. Deacons reach out to the church community in many different ways as they are called to live the Gospel in their everyday life.

The function of a deacon is to serve the Church by sharing their gifts and talents given them by God. The formation program is designed to enhance those gifts and prepare these men for a lifetime of service, thereby adding a quality of life for them, our Church and surrounding communities.

Areas of possible parish service are: assisting at Mass, preaching, funerals, vigils and graveside services, benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, Eucharistic celebrations, retreat work, spiritual direction, work with the handicapped, baptismal preparation,

youth programs, Sacrament of Baptism, parish social concerns, Communion/sick calls, migrant ministry, Stations of the Cross, AIDS ministry, adult education / inquiry / RCIA, prison ministry, work with fallen-away Catholics, advocates for annulments, marriage preparation / Sacrament of Marriage, religious education, and Parish School of Religion.

Deacons also increase involvement of the laity with support and guidance.

Upon completion of the program and ordination, the newly ordained deacons will have two ministries.

Bishop Duca, along with their pastors, will assign the deacons to a home parish and to a ministry outside the parish serving our community.

The deacon’s vocation is a call by God to service. They are to help make Christ more relevant, human and understood in the world. They give witness to Christian values in their church community, work place and in our community. Deacons are called to find ways to promote justice and charity and support Christian values in the world, in the name of the Catholic Church.

This call to service is a call for the entire community. These men and their families will need your prayers, financial support through the Bishop’s Annual Service Appeal and your personal support. We all follow God’s plan when we serve one another.

We’re in this for Life A Reflection on Adult Catholic Education

by Mike Van Vranken, Greco Institute Instructor

A “

n abiding commitment to scholarship and learning has always marked the history of Catholicism,” claims the Encyclopedia of Catholicism. That same resource goes on to remind us that Jesus was most frequently called “teacher” and eventually gave us the command to “go... make disciples of all nations... teaching them....” (Matt 28:19-20).

That directive to “go and teach all nations” presumes the presence of a multitude of students. Need we ask: Fr. Pat Madden, Director of Greco Institute, leads a class at the Catholic Center. “who are those students?” The obvious answer is this: while many are called to identify the needs of others – needs lived in the 4th century. This Doctor to teach, all of us are compelled to we may have overlooked – needs we can of the Church was basically saying that learn. Now, here comes the hard part satisfy if we know how. serious Bible study is a necessity and not – Catholic education does not stop In my own life, it has been those a luxury. After all, if the saying is true, with our children. In fact, our ability to educational experiences that allowed then a good knowledge of the scriptures learn the deep truths taught by Christ, me to know God and his desires in a would seem imperative to a relationship and how they apply to us in 2010, is much deeper, intimate way. I recall with God. much keener as adults than it was attending a nine-month study of the What are some other opportunities back in grade school. In short, adult Mass back in 1981 that intensified my for those of us in North Louisiana?

Catholic learning is at the heart of our participation in the Liturgy in ways I Here are a list of some Catholic adult relationship with the Trinity. had never imagined. Other educational education programs that started in In our places of work, none of us opportunities included Bible studies, September: would be opposed to some form of the School of Ministry through the 1. Catholic Biblical School training and development to improve our University of Dallas and our own 2. LIMEX competencies and our efficiencies. Most diocese’s Greco Institute courses. With 3. Dallas School of Ministry industries and professions in the U.S. each new learning activity, additional 4. Academic Formation for the actually require continuing education layers of mysteries were peeled away as Shreveport Diaconate for their employees to remain in those the clouds of confusion were replaced 5.Greco Classes – that include: Intro specific lines of work. But are we as eager by a more personal relationship with the to the Old Testament, What Catholics to pursue adult Catholic education with Savior himself. And the more I got to Believe, Revelation, Intro to the New the same energy and passion? know him, the more I got to know what Testament, Liturgy, Master Lector, and Let’s consider two thoughts: First, we he expected of me. The result included Paul and His Theology. are to love God with our entire being. a realization that adult education is not Let’s also not forget the wonderful As Catholics, we are called to apply our only vital to us as individuals, but also to Slattery Library in the Catholic Center own experiences and our knowledge our families, our communities and yes – in Shreveport for those who are close to strengthen our relationship with our the entire Body of Christ. For, without enough to take advantage of this God. We all have the inner desire to this knowledge, how do we support each remarkable center of knowledge. know, love and serve God right here in other? How do we minister to each While our individual journeys with this world. How can we know him if we other?

God are unique and diverse, we are do not study him? How can we worship This all begs the question: Where do all walking together as the one Body him if we are not constantly seeking we find these opportunities for adult of Christ. The more we learn on this him? Second, we are called to love our education? expedition, the more we know how to neighbor. Our adult Catholic education There are so many resources that we bring Jesus into our modern world. helps us better minister to our fellow cannot list them all here. But, the first Jesus says if we believe in him, we’ll man. We learn to love, to have empathy, that comes to mind is the abundance of have everlasting life. The more we know to listen, to console, to forgive and more. available scripture studies. The axiom him, the more we can believe who he is In short, our life-long Christian learning “Ignorance of the scriptures is ignorance and what he asks of us. Adult Catholic helps us be more Christ-like. It frees us of Christ” is attributed to St. Jerome who Education – we’re in this for life!

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Hispanic Corner por Rosalba Quiroz

Vicario General de la Diócesis Católica l Ministerio Hispano y los hispanos católicos de la diócesis estamos felices por el nombramiento del Padre Rothell Price como Vicario General. El padre Price en su papel de Vicario asegura que los programas que existen en las parroquias son adecuados para todos los feligreses, incluyendo servicios a los hispanos.

El Padre Price es originario de Chicago, IL. Llegó a Luisiana a estudiar en la universidad y fue ahí durante sus estudios que sintió el llamado a la Vocación del Sacerdocio e ingresó como seminarista. Fue ordenado sacerdote el 18 de junio de 1988. Desde entonces ha servido en varias parroquias.

Aunque su sueño era tener 16 hijos, 8 propios y 8 adoptados, Dios tenía una sorpresa para él y es que como dice: “tengo mucho más hijos, todos ustedes son mis hijos e hijas”; uno de los mejores privilegios de ser sacerdote es poder convivir con otros hijos e hijas de mi Señor.”

Compartimos un fin de semana con el Padre Price el retiro de jóvenes de 14-17 años al cual asistieron más de 40 jovencitos donde todos, TODOS, se maravillaron con sus enseñanzas. Por su parte el Padre comparte que le asombra como los jovencitos demuestran un gran amor hacia Dios y devoción a sus familias, aun en momentos difíciles.

“Estoy agradecido por todos y cada uno de ellos; Andrea, Felipe y Pablo Ortega son una trinidad de personas como Dios mismo. Son de las gentes más generosas y bondadosas que conozco y con humildad reconozco que son sus

E

Misas

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

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

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

corazones son verdaderos Cristianos y testigos de Dios”. Agradezco también al Padre Alberto Moreno que nos acompañó y a los otros voluntarios que con prudencia y diligencia trabajaron todo el fin de semana. !Viva Jesús! !Viva México! !Viva todos los pueblos y países Hispanos!”

El carisma y amor del Padre Price se sienten con su mera presencia. Está aprendiendo español y ya lo habla suficientemente bien para comunicar

su alegría y dedicación como sacerdote.

Siente agradecimiento por la paciencia que le muestran los hispanos cuando habla español. Por ahora además de servir como Vicario General, tiene a su cargo la comunidad hispana en la parroquia de Santa María de Los Pinos en Shreveport y ayuda en muchas de las parroquias de la diócesis. Pidan al Señor, nuestro Dios por el Padre Price y por la Misión de la Diócesis (Evangelizar) en sus oraciones.

Calendario Diocesano del Mes de Octubre 2 Reunión del Consejo del Instituto Pastoral del SEPI (Instituto Pastoral del Sureste) Nuestra oficina ha sido miembro del consejo por tres años. Este es el último año de participación.

9 Reunión de coordinadores del Ministerio Hispano, de 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Parroquia de Cristo Rey, Bossier City.

13 Reunión de Directores diocesanos del Centro Católico con el Obispo, Michael Duca y reunión de preparación para la celebración del 25 aniversario del establecimiento de la Diócesis.

16-17 Escuela de Ministerios: Historia de la Iglesia Católica en los Estados Unidos.

Sábado de 9 a.m. a 8 p.m. y domingo de 9 a.m. a 2 p.m. en la parroquia de Cristo Rey, Bossier City.

23 Encuentro Sub-Regional del SEPI (Instituto Pastoral del Sureste), de 9:00 a.m. – 5 p.m. en New Orleans.

28-29 Clase de Buenos Líderes, Buenos Pastores para los sacerdotes de la Diócesis.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora del Ministerio Hispano 318-219-7265 • Rev. Al Jost, Coordinador de La Vicaría del Este • 318-243-0115

18 19 Catholic Connection October 2010

At Mass in Scotland, Pope Urges Catholics to Show Faith Publicly by John Thavis, CNS

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Pope Benedict XVI greet guests as they walk through the gardens at the Royal Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, Scotland, Sept. 16.

(CNS photo/Dylan Martinez, Reuters)

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LASGOW, Scotland (CNS) -- Celebrating Mass for tens of thousands of faithful, Pope Benedict XVI urged Catholics to promote the “wisdom and vision” of their religion in the public square.

A society that tries to do without religion ends up living in a self-destructive moral jungle, the pope said at a liturgy in Glasgow Sept. 16, his second stop in Scotland and the first leg of a four-day trip to Great Britain.

The crowd cheered the 83-year-old pontiff when he arrived at Bellahouston Park, just after a local police bagpipe band played “Amazing Grace.”

The pope landed earlier in the day in Edinburgh, where he met with Queen Elizabeth II and was treated to an official state welcome. In a speech televised across the nation, the pope warned that attempts to exclude God from social and political life can lead to disaster.

He returned to that theme in Glasgow, this time exhorting Catholics not only to be examples of faith in action, but also to defend the influence of the Christian faith in the public forum. This was all the more needed at a time when the “dictatorship of relativism” threatens to distort the truth about human nature, he said.

“There are some who now seek to exclude religious belief from public discourse, to privatize it or even to paint it as a threat to equality and liberty. Yet religion is in fact a guarantee of authentic liberty and respect, leading us to look

upon every person as a brother or sister,” he said.

In calling for the invigoration of Catholic witness in British society, the pope pointed to the example St. Ninian, who died in 432. The Scottish evangelizer’s feast fell on the day of the pope’s arrival.

St. Ninian, the pope said, was “unafraid to be a lone voice” in proclaiming the Gospel in society.

The pope had special words for young people at the Mass, telling them that firm faith could set them free from “slavery to the glittering but superficial existence” often proposed by modern culture.

“There are many temptations placed before you every day -- drugs, money, sex, pornography, alcohol -- which the world tells you will bring you happiness, yet these things are destructive and divisive,” he said.

“There is only one thing which lasts: the love of Jesus Christ personally for each one of you,” he said.

The pope ended his sermon by pronouncing a blessing in Scottish Gaelic, an ancient language that also was used for one of the prayers of the faithful.

The crowds welcomed the pope enthusiastically, cheering and waving large yellow and white Vatican flags and large blue and white Scottish flags.

He drove through the crowd in the popemobile before Mass, stopping to bless babies held up by security guards.

Those attending the Mass had to be in place hours before the pope arrived.

New Orleans Archdiocese ‘Buries’ Katrina

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EW ORLEANS (CNS) -- Citing the abundant blessings that have followed the suffering and deaths caused by Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond marked the fifth anniversary of the nation’s worst natural disaster Aug. 29 with a Mass and an interfaith prayer service at St. Louis Cathedral. “Five years later, we remember the unwelcome visit of Katrina, but we have put her to rest,” Archbishop Aymond said in his homily at the Mass, which was celebrated in honor of Our Lady of Prompt Succor, the patroness of the archdiocese.

“Wherever she is, it doesn’t matter to us because she no longer has power over us. We must move on with the power of Christ.” A day earlier, Archbishop Aymond had been a principal speaker at a Katrina “funeral,” celebrated at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church in Chalmette. He remarked that when the Katrina casket, filled with personal prayers and notes from individuals, was closed, people spontaneously broke out in cheers and applause. “It was a very moving experience,” Archbishop Aymond said. “The people had the opportunity to put notes about Katrina (into the casket), which I’m sure said things like, ‘Never come back,’ but they also included some of their own hurts and memories and emotions and wounds.”

He added: “This weekend, we bury Katrina.

She has caused many deaths. We will not forget her, but she is buried.”

Shirley Mouton places a note in the Hurricane Katrina casket set up in front of the altar at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church. (CNS photo/ Peter Finney Jr., Clarion Herald)

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Around the Diocese

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r. Charles, Fr. Rigo and the parishioners are always looking for ways to improve the prayerful experience at Christ the King. In addition to the beautiful liturgies we wanted our church to silently say “This is the house of the Lord”.

A new two-tiered marble and wood Baptismal Font has been placed in the front of the Church. Two small pews were removed to make room for the font. The font has been placed on a tile base. A new wood and beveled glass cabinet for our Holy Oils has been hung on the wall near the Baptismal Font. We have also installed new carpet in the nave of the Church. New lighting is now illuminating the back pews and the Sanctuary.

Christ the King Church is looking bright, shiny and new all for the glory and praise of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

20 21 Catholic Connection October 2010

2. Catholic Center Reaches Out to the Poor

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n a Directors’ meeting at the Catholic Center, Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General, suggested the diocesan staff pick a project to help our brothers and sisters in need throughout the diocese. The first project chosen was to collect food for the various agencies assisting the poor in our diocese.

Each month, a container is placed in the entrance to the Chapel for all members of the Catholic Center Staff, as well as visitors, to participate in this Corporal Work of Mercy. Each month, a special item is picked to be distributed to area food banks or churches. September was “Peanut Butter and Jelly Month.” At the end of the month a staff member will deliver the items to an agency or church to help with their food banks. It’s a way for the staff of the Catholic Center to share in the mission of our diocesan church.

3. Religious Gather for Annual Meeting

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n September 9-10, the Office of Religious in the Diocese of Shreveport hosted an annual gathering for religious and their superiors. On Sept. 9, religious men and women, priests, deacons and Catholic Center staff gathered for a special banquet with the bishop and religious history presentation by Chancellor Christine Rivers. On Sept, 10, religious members met to share experiences with one another, meet with the bishop, and learn more about making a difference.

4. Annual Blue Mass Honored Police, Fire Fighters and Emergency Personnel

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ach year a Blue Mass is held that brings special recognition to those firefighters, law enforcement

Blessing of the Graves

by Fr. Rothell Price, jcl, vg, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia

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6 officers and emergency personal who risk their lives each day to save the lives of others. This year, Bishop Duca celebrated the Mass at St. Mary of the Pines Church in Shreveport.

Parishioners at the Church put together special displays and gifts for those honored at the Mass.

5. Academic Formation Classes for Deacons Began in Ruston

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he Diocese of Shreveport’s newest Permanent Diaconate Formation class began on September 11. The program, which is hosted at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Ruston, will last four years.

Twenty-five men were admitted to the new program and were in attendance, as well as 18 others who registered to join in the University of Dallas academic section of training as

they invest in the future of our church and the religious education of our children.

6. Weekend Youth Retreat in Scottsville, TX

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he Office of Hispanic Ministry sponsored a Spanish weekend retreat for young Catholics 14-17 years old. During the retreat, “Search for a Christian Maturity,” the participants were encouraged to form parish youth groups and to start being true disciples of Jesus. There were 36 participants and 13 team members, including Fr. Rothell Price and another priest from Miami, FL. The weekend culminated with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael G. Duca. This retreat will be scheduled once a year, and the 36 members that participated in this retreat will be able to serve in future retreats.

he Church seeks to help the faithful departed by earnest prayer to God, and in particular, by remembrance of them on All Souls Day and throughout the month of November.

In the communion of the saints, the communion of Christ’s members with one another, the Church obtains spiritual help for those who have preceded us in faith. This spiritual communion brings the consolation of hope to us who remember with gratitude, love and devotion those who have gone before us in faith. It is in this spirit that we commemorate our faithful departed on All Souls Day and bless their graves. We entrust them once again to the purifying and life giving love of the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our priests and deacons will offer prayers at our local cemeteries on the weekend closest to All Souls Day, our annual commemoration of the faithful departed on the following dates: Saturday, October 30, 2010 • Hill Crest Cemetery, Haughton, 10:00 a.m. - Deacon Larry Mills • Forest Park Cemetery East, Shreveport, 11:00 a.m. – Deacon John Basco • Rose-Neath Cemetery, Bossier City, 1:30 p.m. – Deacon Freeman Ligon

Sunday, October 31, 2010 • Saint Joseph Cemetery, Shreveport, 2:00 p.m. – Rev. Msgr. Earl V. Provenza, vf • Centuries Memorial Cemetery, Shreveport, 2:45 p.m. – Rev. Francis Kamau, fmh • Forest Park Cemetery West, Shreveport, 3:30 p.m. – Rev. Henry Kiggundu, fmh Please contact Father Rothell Price at 318-868-4441, ext. 259 if you have any questions.

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Touchstones of Aging Retreat

by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo, Director, Office of Canonical Services

Sister Marilyn Vassallo, csj

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acred Heart of Jesus Church in Shreveport will host two evenings of reflection on the joys, sorrows and challenges facing those individuals wanting to age with a healthy attitude, joyful spirit and awareness of the needs of their bodies, minds and souls.

Sister Marilyn R. Vassallo, csj, Director of the Office of Canonical Services, will help participants address the central issues of aging and how spirituality helps us to grow older gracefully. Intertwined with the talks are short periods of quiet reflection.

The first presentation on Tuesday, October 26, will deal with the “Central Issues that Emerge with Aging.” On Thursday evening, October 28, Sister Marilyn will present the blessings of aging in a talk entitled “Spreading our Wings and Blessing our World.”

Sister Marilyn’s presentations are based on the writings of John Paul II and Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister.

Both evenings will begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 8:30 p.m. Each evening will conclude with a reception in the parish hall.

To help us plan for the evening, please call the rectory at 318-635-2121 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Registrations will also be accepted at the door on both evenings.

For additional information call Libby Campbell at 318-635-2121 or email her at libbyac@comcast.net.

22 23 Catholic Connection October 2010

Upcoming Events OCTOBER 3: ST. MARY OF THE PINES TO HOST ST. FRANCIS DAY St. Mary of the Pines will host St. Francis Day, which will include a Blessing of the Animals and a low cost Pet Vaccination Clinic for cats and dogs. The event will take place from 4:00 pm.- 7:00 p.m.

Veterinary Services will be provdied by Dr. Steven Everson and Dr. Bran Everson of Southern Hills Animal Hospital.

For more information, call Mary Anne Moore, 318-687-4799 or 318-286-5394.

OCTOBER 23: FOURTH ANNUAL RUN WITH THE NUNS The fourth annual Run with the Nuns Motorcycle Rally and Show for the benefit of children’s health will be held at the Harrah’s Louisiana Downs Casino & Racetrack. Almost 1,000 bikers, over 30 vendors, and associates participated in last year’s event. Bishop Michael Duca will open the event with a blessing of the bikes. Breakfast and lunch will be served and live bands will perform throughout the day. Proceeds will benefit children’s health programs. Pre-registration tickets are $25 per bike rider and $30 per bike rider after October 1. You may purchase your tickets online, in the Foundation office, or from any RWTN Committee member.

Holy Communion and Ministers to the Sick and Dying will be offered from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Catholic Center. Realizing that Christ Jesus is the center of all ministry and service, the call to ministry is also a call to deepening spiritual growth. This retreat is not a “how to” of ministry, but will focus on spirituality by combining elements of Scripture, communal and private prayer, and conversation.

There is no charge to attend this retreat, which includes lunch. Please contact Dianne Rachal, Office of Worship, to register: (318) 868-4441, or drachal@ dioshpt.org.

NOVEMBER 2: ST. CECELIA CHORAL SOCIETY REQUIEM MASS To Celebrate the Feast of All Souls this year, the Saint Cecelia Choral Society will be offering the Gabriel Faure’s REQUIEM in the context of the Ordinary Form Mass on Tuesday, November 2 at 7:00 p.m. This wonderful Mass will take place at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans.

NOVEMBER 12: DRAMA OF ST. JOHN VIANNEY The Office of Vocations for the Diocese of Shreveport is working with St. Luke Productions to present a professional drama on the life of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of priests. The production will be Friday, November 12 at the Catholic Center theatre, where Leonardo Defilippis also did the drama on OCTOBER 25: ROAST OF MSGR. CARSON LACAZE The Cathedral of St. St. Maximillian Kolbe. Defilippis produced John Berchmans will host a roast of Msgr. as well the film Therese (St. Theresa of the Child Jesus) a few years ago, shown in a LaCaze in honor of his 80th birthday. local theatre. St. Frederick High School in Come help us celebrate in the St. John’s Multi Room. Tickets are $100 and include Monroe will present the drama on Sunday, dinner. Proceeds will go to the Cathedral Nov. 14, from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The production is appropriate for ages 9 and Organ Completion Campaign. For more up, and described by local Catholics who information and for tickets, call the have seen it as especially moving. www.

Church Office, 318-221-5296. stlukeproductions.com OCTOBER 29: ST.JOHN BERCHMANS SCHOOL MONSTER JANUARY 9-19: PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND Bishop Michael Duca MASH St. John Berchmans School will will join the Church of Jesus the Good hold a Monster Mash for all ages from Shepherd on a pilgrimage to the Holy 5:00 pm. to 8:00 p.m. on October 29 in Land January 9-19, 2011. The trip will the school’s multiroom. The event will focus on sights within Israel/Palestine include a haunted house, games and dinner by Shavers. Games will be $1 each which will include Tiberius, Nazareth, and dinner is $8 in advance. Proceeds will Mt. Carmel, Caesarea, Cana of Galilee, Capernaum, Jerusalem & Bethlehem. benefit St. John Berchmans School.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Registration forms are at the JGS church NOVEMBER 6: RETREAT FOR office. Call John Morris, 318-325-3741 for EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS A more information. retreat for Extraordinary Ministers of

OCTOBER 2010 SUNDAY

MONDAY

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TUESDAY

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Photo: Annual Run with the Nuns Motorcycle Rally benefitting Cara Center.

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

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FRIDAY

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SATURDAY

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Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, virgin & doctor of the Church

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Respect Life Sunday Pro-Life Banquet, St. Joseph Shreveport, 7:15pm

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Saint Luke, evangelist

World 24 Mission Sunday 140th Anniversary Mass, St. Patrick Church,10:30 a.m.

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Saint Bruno, priest; Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, virgin

Deadline for the November Catholic Connection

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Saint John de Brebeuf & Saint Isaac Jogues, priests & martyrs, & their companions, martyrs

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7 Our Lady of the Rosary

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Saint Callistus I, pope and martyr

Columbus Day

Vocation Awareness Sunday 2nd Collection: World Missions

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Saint Francis of Assisi, religious

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Saint Teresa of St. Pius X Church Jesus, virgin & Sanctuary doctor of the Church Dedication, 10am Saint Hedwig, religious; Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, virgin

Saint Paul of the Cross, priest

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Finance Council Meeting, Catholic Center, 12:00pm

9 Saint Denis, bishop & martyr, & his companions, martyrs; Saint John Leonardi, priest

Run with the Nuns Saint John of Capistrano, priest

28 Priests Day of Reflection, Fairview House Saint Simon & Saint Jude, apostles

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Good Leaders, Good Shepherds, Catholic Center

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DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

•

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Eastern Deanery Red Mass

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u rch M at t h e w Ch t.

S t a s s a M Re d u rt w ye rs and c o la s, e g d ju d e h onor wor k e rs .

Are a judges to ok pa in th e Re d M as s.

rt

24 Catholic Connection October 2010

very year, St. Matthew Church in downtown Monroe hosts its annual Red Mass. The Mass is celebrated in honor of judges, lawyers and court professionals and precedes the opening of the judicial year. Fr. Matthew Long, Parochial Vicar of Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, is a law school graduate and gave the homily at the Mass. Bishop Michael Duca was the principal celebrant. Members of the local legal community were in attendance, as well as students of area Catholic schools.

if ts le s se s t h e g b a c u D p o Bish n te d by nio n, pre se u m m o C r o f f f. f c o u rt s t a mem be rs o

ng , who is Fath er M at th ew Lo , was th e ba rred in Lo uisiana s. homilist at th e M as

Pr ie sts and de ac on s jo ined th e bish op around th e al ta r to ce le brate th e Euch ar is t.