Catholic Connection October 2014

Vol. 24, No. 3 October 2014

Our

Life Issue

So Just What is Natural Family Planning?

Humanae Vitae Reflection Affirming Life in Your Marriage Bishop's Reflection: Be a Witness for Life Seminarian Reflection: Human Life Matters Seeds of Peace at Grace Home

October 2014 1

Respect Life October is

Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Contributors Martin Aviles-Vazquez Bishop Michael Duca Donna Grimaldi Kim Long Fr. Matthew Long Theresa Mormino Kelly Phelan Powell Fr. Rothell Price

Rosalba Quiroz Katie Sciba Randy Tiller Mike Van Vranken Claire Vidrine John Mark Willcox

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

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

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

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

Month

For all people throughout the world: that they might recognize and treat each person as a masterpiece of God’s creation; We pray to the Lord: For the poor, the homeless, and all who are in need: that they may receive love, respect, and the material assistance they need; We pray to the Lord: For all those facing an unexpected pregnancy: that the peace of Christ may fill their hearts; We pray to the Lord:

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That birthparents placing their children with adoptive families may receive abundant support; We pray to the Lord: That all women, men, and family members suffering from abortion may know the Lord’s tender, healing love; We pray to the Lord: For those who are ill: may they draw strength from the Sacred Heart of Jesus, who is always with us in our suffering; We pray to the Lord:

That we may listen for the Lord’s voice and follow Him with trust; We pray to the Lord:

For parents who have lost a child through miscarriage: that they may know the comfort and hope that Jesus brings; We pray to the Lord:

That Jesus grant each of us the courage and peace to share His love with the world; We pray to the Lord:

For all elected officials: that throughout their service, they may respect the dignity of each person; We pray to the Lord:

From the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops www.usccb.org/respectlife

bishop’s october calendar OCTOBER 2 An Evening in Rome with Bishop Duca (Catholic Charities of North Louisiana Event); Ristorante Giuseppe, Shreveport; 6:30 p.m.

OCTOBER 3 Loyola College Prep Homecoming Football Game, Messmer Stadium, Shreveport OCTOBER 5 Feast of St. Therese of Lisieux Mass & Celebration; St. Theresa Church, Delhi; 11:00 a.m.

OCTOBER 10 St. Frederick High School Alumni, Family & Friends 50th Anniversary Reception; St. Frederick High School Alumni Center, Monroe; 5:30 p.m.

OCTOBER 11 Diaconate Ordination: Brother Ephrem Arcement; St. Joseph Abbey, Covington; 11:15 a.m.

OCTOBER 12 Diocese of Tyler Diaconate Convocation; St. Matthew Church, Longview

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

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

Intercessions for Life

OCTOBER 13-14 Delaplane Initiative for Preaching Excellence (Bishops’ Meeting); Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. Louis.

OCTOBER 16 Meeting of Notre Dame Seminary Board & St. Joseph Seminary

Board; Notre Dame Seminary, New Orleans, LA OCTOBER 17 Taste of ShreveportBossier (Holy Angels Residential Facility Fundraiser); Bossier Civic Center, Bossier City OCTOBER 18 Run with the Nuns Motorcycle Rally; Red River District, downtown Shreveport; 9:30 a.m.

OCTOBER 19 Mass; St Clement Church, Vivian, 9:00 a.m.

Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 5:30 p.m.

OCTOBER 20-23 Diocese of Shreveport Priests Convocation; Cypress Bend Resort, Many OCTOBER 26 Harvest Day Mass & Celebration; Sacred Heart Church, Oak Grove; 11:00 a.m.

OCTOBER 29 St. Francis Medical Center Board of Directors’ Meeting; Monroe; 11:30 a.m.

contents

october 2014

columns Be a Witness to Life

by Bishop Michael G. Duca........................................................................................... 4-5

Mike’s Meditations: Do Not Judge or Condemn by Mike Van Vranken..............6 Second Collections: World Mission Sunday by Fr. Rothell Price ...........................6

9

From the Pope by Vatican Information Services.......................................................7 Catholic Food: The Little Things by Kim Long.........................................................8 Domestic Church: Affirming Life in Your Marriage by Katie Sciba......................9 Respecting Your Spouse ........................................................................................9 Book Review: Style, Sex, and Substance: 10 Catholic Women Consider the Things that Really Matter by Hallie Lord by Katie Sciba ...............................10 Navigating the Faith: Humanae Vitae by Fr. Matthew Long ...............................11 Vocations Corner: Human Life Matters by Martin Aviles-Vazquez .......................15 Vocations Corner: Beginning Discernment to Religious Life by Claire Vidrine .....15

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feature So Just What IS Natural Family Planning?

by Kelly Phelan Powell .............................................................................................. 12-14

news Get Ready for the Catholic Pumpkin Patch! by Donna Grimaldi........................8 Former Ruston Priest Passed Away by John Mark Willcox .....................................10

16

Celebrate All Souls at St. Joseph Cemetery by Randy Tiller.................................16 Annual Blessing of Cemeteries by Fr. Rothell Price ................................................16 Matthew 25 Partnership at Catholic Charities by Theresa Mormino ...................17

on the cover

Seeds of Peace Program at Grace Home by Kelly Phelan Powell .....................17 Hispanic Corner by Rosalba Quiroz ........................................................................18 Around the Globe Statement on the U.S. Senate's Attempt to Reverse U.S. Supreme Court's Hobby Lobby Decision

by Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops ..........................................................19 From the Vatican by Vatican Information Services .................................................19 School News ...........................................................................................................20 Around the Diocese ...............................................................................................21 Save the Date for Bishop Duca's Annual Pro-Life Banquet ...............................22 Upcoming Events....................................................................................................22 October Calendar .................................................................................................23 Picture of the Month ..............................................................................................24

Andrew and Katie Sciba pose with their boys, Liam, Thomas and Peter, and their unborn daughter.

(Photo by Jessica Rinaudo)

October 2014 3

LA REFLEXIÓN del obispo

por Obispo Michael G. Duca

Ser Testigo Por la Vida

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on frecuencia, y sucederá más en un futuro, nos encontramos defendiendo nuestra fe de gente que no entiende o entiende lo contrario a lo que cree la Iglesia. Por ejemplo, desde hace poco escuchamos decir que “la Iglesia Católica no se preocupa por las mujeres y por sus derechos.” Escuchamos estos comentarios especialmente porque se trata de la posición que toma la iglesia en el tema del aborto. Si están cansados de escuchar esto, sepan que trabajaremos incansablemente para defender nuestra fe a menos que ante todo, como en este caso, sepamos que esta declaración no es verdadera. Encontraremos energía renovada si no nos dejamos envolver en defensa de lo negativo sino más bien regresar la conversación a ser Testigos de la Vida, esto quiere decir, ser testigos de nuestra creencia en el valor absoluto de toda y cada vida humana – un testigo del amor y cariño de toda la gente. Este testimonio de amor hace una conexión a nuestra fe y amor en Jesús. Siendo testigos positivos descubriremos un nuevo entusiasmo que nos llenará de amor por cada creatura. Dejaremos de discutir un punto moral y comenzaremos a ser testigos de las maravillas de nuestro Dios que ama cada vida nueva con un amor personal y único.

Decir solamente que la Iglesia está en contra del aborto, como católico es una declaración equivocada. La mejor manera de profesar nuestra fe Católica es decir que DEFENDEMOS la Vida. Con frecuencia vemos nuestra fe Católica, o como otros la describen por lo que no podemos hacer. Este es un entendimiento

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pequeño e incompleto de lo que significa ser un discípulo de Jesucristo, un buen Católico. Seguimos las enseñanzas de Jesús no por lo que no podemos hacer, si no por las cosas maravillosas que Jesús nos revela. Somos primeramente una Iglesia que cree en lo maravilloso, lo misterioso y lo valioso de la vida humana. ¿Por qué alguien no querría profesar este aspecto tan positivo por cada vida humana, siendo y viendo a todos como hijos de Dios?

Debemos respetar la vida de cada persona desde el momento de la concepción porque queremos amar a todos nuestros hermanos y hermanas en cada etapa de sus vidas con el amor de Dios. La Ciencia, sin la ayuda de la religión, está constantemente

revelándonos la complejidad y maravilla de la vida humana. Sabemos que desde el momento de la fertilización, los elementos esenciales de nuestro ser como humanos ya existen y solamente necesitan crecer.

Entre más profundo investiga la ciencia, más se revelan sus maravillas y la huella del amor de Dios. No proteger la vida desde sus primeros momentos establece un precedente peligroso e ignora lo que

la ciencia y nuestra fe revelan acerca de la particularidad de cada vida.

Para que alguien acepte el aborto, esa persona debe enajenarse de la creencia que la vida dentro del vientre de la madre es un bebe, una vida humana con sus valores y derechos. Esta es una manera desastrosa de pensar. Si la vida de una persona no se valúa y reconoce desde el principio, entonces cada decisión que se toma con respecto a la vida será arbitraria e injusta.

Será injusta porque el valor de la vida del bebe en desarrollo, el cual ya está vivo, es vulnerable y tendrá oportunidad de nacer con la decisión de alguien más. ¿Dónde sentimos que esto es justo y que es una manera de decidir en nuestra sociedad?

Además, si podemos hacer esta decisión arbitraria para determinar el valor de una vida humana antes de nacer, ¿También lo haremos esta decisión en otras etapas de la vida (en la ancianidad por ejemplo), u otras razones como (problemas médicos)?

Como católicos debemos ser Testigos de la Vida sin ninguna vergüenza. Somos gente de la Luz y de la Vida y eso debe ser evidente en nuestro testimonio.

Con inspiración no nos cansaremos, sino más bien nos llenaremos de un entusiasmo nuevo por esta causa con un amor que muestra cuidado tanto por la mamá desesperada como por el bebé aún no nacido.

Cuando somos testigos del Evangelio de la vida por medio de nuestras palabras y opciones, somos motivados por un corazón transformado por el amor de Dios que desea que toda la vida sea respetada.

bishop’s reflection

by Bishop Michael G. Duca

Be a Witness for Life

S

o often today, and this will happen even more in the future, we find ourselves defending our faith from a biased and one-sided negative characterization of the Church. For example, recently we have heard, “the Catholic Church does not care about women and their rights.” We hear this Bishop Duca especially in regard to the Church’s stand against abortion. If you are tired of this, know that it will always be tiring work to defend our faith unless we first of all, as in this regard, know the statement is not true. Secondly, we will find new energy if we do not let ourselves get caught up in defending a negative and turn the conversation to a Witness for Life, that is, to witnessing to our belief in the absolute value of every human life – a witness of love and care of all people. This witness of love makes the connection to our faith and love of Jesus. In a positive witness we will discover a new enthusiasm that will fill us with a love for every child. We will stop just arguing a moral point and we will begin to witness the wonder of our God who loves each new life with a unique and personal love.

To only say the Church is against abortion is the wrong way to approach the issue as a believer. The better way to profess our Catholic faith is to say that we are FOR life. We often frame our faith, or others describe the Catholic faith, by what we cannot do. This is a small and incomplete understanding of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, a good Catholic. We follow the teachings of Jesus not because of what we cannot do, but because of the wonderful things Jesus reveals to us. We are first a Church who

believes in the wonder, the mystery and the unique value of every human life. Why would anyone not want to profess such a positive respect for every human being and to see everyone as a child of God? We must respect the life of every individual from the moment of conception because we want to love all our brothers and sisters at every stage of their lives with the love of God. Science, without the help of religion, is continually revealing to us the complexity and wonder of human life.

We know that at the very moment of fertilization the essential elements of our human selves are already set and only need time to grow. The deeper science investigates, the more life reveals its wonder and the mark of the hand of God. To not protect life from its very first moments sets a dangerous precedent and ignores what science and our faith reveal about the uniqueness of every life.

For anyone to accept abortion they must suspend the belief that the life within the mother’s womb is a child, a human life with values and rights. This sets up a disastrous way of thinking. If

a human person’s life is not valued and acknowledged from the very beginning, then every decision for when life should be valued will be arbitrary and unjust. It will be unjust because the value of the life of the developing child who is vulnerable is decided by someone who was given the chance to be born and is already alive.

Where in our society do we feel that this is a fair and just way to decide? Further, if we can make this arbitrary decision to determine the value of a human life before the child is born, then why not make the same decision at other stages of life (old age for example), or for other reasons (medical problems)?

As Catholics we must unashamedly be Witnesses for Life. We are people of the Light and of Life and that should be evident in our witness. With that inspiration we will not be exhausted, but rather filled with a new enthusiasm for this cause with a love that cares for the distressed mother and the unborn child. When we witness to the Gospel of life by our words or choices, let us be motivated by a heart transformed by the love of God that desires for all life to be respected.

October 2014 5

Meditations MM Mike's

by Mike Van Vranken

Collections SC Second

by Fr. Rothell Price

Do Not Judge or Condemn Second Collections: Be compassionate and merciful to one another World Mission Sunday

Collection Dates: October 18th & 19th Announcement Dates: October 5th & 12th

W

e have all, more than once, heard the phrase: “love the sinner, hate the sin.” I wonder what results would emerge if each of us tried to explain exactly what that means. What would it mean to show true compassion to the sinner? Another question we might ask is: “do we show mercy to sinners we like but not to those we do not know very well?” Finally, do we acknowledge our own sins before we turn our attention to others’?

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus says, “Be merciful,” “Stop judging,” “Stop condemning,” and “Forgive” in chapter 6, verses 36 and 37. A few verses later he asks: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do as I command?” I never really liked that question. It seems a little personal.

Our society is trying to legislatively deal with issues that involve what some view as sinful. The result usually leaves two groups with differing opinions who refuse to respect and listen to each other. In essence, the merciful love that Jesus gives us and has commanded we give each other is missing. Most Christians are very passionate about their beliefs and equally passionate in defending their faith. Those who oppose those beliefs are pretty enthusiastic and fervent themselves. We have proven one thing: continuing to argue with no respect for each human being involved in the debate has proven fruitless. It is time to be obedient to Jesus’ commands.

Throughout this month, let’s pray and meditate on the ways we can be compassionate and merciful without judging or condemning. Let’s remember that our respect and love for human life is at the very core of the love God has called us to live. Finally, let’s remember, if we are going to love anyone at all, it means we will love a sinner.

Jesus said: “Why do you call me Lord, Lord and not do as I command?” Let’s commit to making permanent changes in our lives so Jesus can finally say: “Thank you for calling me Lord, Lord and doing as I have commanded.”

Mike is a writer and teacher. You can contact him at: www. mikevanvrankenministries.org or write him at: Mike Van Vranken, 523 Loch Ridge Drive, Shreveport, LA 71106.

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very year, something special happens on the next-to-last Sunday of October – the Church reflects its deepest identity as the Church in mission. The theme for World Mission Sunday 2014 is “I Will Build My Church.” (Matthew 16:18).

On World Mission Sunday, Catholics of the world unite at Mass to recommit ourselves to our vocation, through Baptism, to be missionaries. The Church’s missionary activity begins with the proclamation of faith: “Jesus is Lord!” He is our common hope – a hope that saves.

On World Mission Sunday, we are called in a special way to be missionaries through prayer and participation in the Eucharist, and by giving generously to the collection for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith. Our brothers and sisters in the Missions themselves offer their prayers and sacrifices so that others may come to know Jesus.

Throughout the Missions, your support keeps the following going day in and day out: • 9,000 clinics for the sick and dying • 10,000 orphanages, providing a place of safety and shelter • 900,000 children in some of the poorest parts of the world, receiving an education and the knowledge of God’s great love.

• 80,000 seminarians preparing for the priesthood • 9,000 religious Sisters and Brothers in formation programs “The Church is called to transmit the joy of the Lord to her children,” Pope Francis tells us. And as members of the Church, united as the One Body of Christ, we are called to support, in prayer and sacrifice, the Church’s mission to bring joy to people everywhere – especially, as Pope Francis urges, “the poorest, the weakest, the least important.”

Mongolia, the world’s youngest Catholic Church needs your help and support. It was just a little more than 20 years ago that the Church was built there, slowly, with great love and missionary support. Today, there are about 850 Catholics in the Church in Mongolia. Bishop Wens remains as committed today as on that first day, to reach out and offer practical and spiritual support to those in need – and to continue to build the Church.

Thank you for your generosity to the World Mission Sunday Collection.

(This article was crafted from statements of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith).

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

from the

from Vatican Information Services

Words

In the of

Pope Francis

MERCY IS ESSENTIAL

V

atican City, September 10, 2014 (VIS) – A special aspect of the “maternity” of the Church is education through mercy, and this was the subject of the Holy Father’s catechesis during September 10’s general audience in St. Peter’s Square.

Like a good mother and educator, the Church focuses on Pope Francis the essential, and the essential, according to the Gospel, is mercy, as Jesus clearly tells his disciples: “Be merciful, just as your father is.” “Is it possible for a Christian not to be merciful?” asked Pope Francis. “No. The Christian must necessarily be merciful, because this is at the center of the Gospel.

And so the Church behaves like Jesus. She does not give theoretical lessons on love or on mercy. She does not spread throughout the world a philosophy or a path to wisdom.

Certainly, Christianity is all of this too,” the Pope remarked, “but as a consequence, a reflection. The mother Church, like Jesus, teaches by example, and words serve to cast light on the meaning of her gestures.”

Therefore, “the Mother Church teaches us to give food and drink to those who hunger and thirst, and to clothe those who are naked. And how does she do this? She does it through the example of many saints who have done it in an exemplary fashion, but she also does it through the example of many fathers and mothers, who teach their children that what we have left over is for those who are in need of basic necessities. In the most humble Christian families, the rule of hospitality is always sacred: there is always a dish of food and a place to sleep for those in need.” And to those who say they have nothing to spare, Francis gave the example of a family in his former diocese who shared half of what they had to eat with a poor man who knocked at their door. “Learning to share what we have is important.”

The mother Church teaches us to be close to those who are sick. Like the saints who

have served Jesus in this way, there are many people who practice this work of mercy every day in hospitals, rest homes or in their own homes, providing assistance for the sick.

The mother Church also teaches us to be close to those who are imprisoned. “‘But Father,’ some will say, ‘This is dangerous.

These are bad people.’ Listen carefully: any one of us is capable of doing what these men and women in prison have done. We all sin and make mistakes in life. They are not worse than you or me. Mercy overcomes any wall or barrier, and leads us always to seek the face of the human being. And it is mercy that changes hearts and lives, that is able to regenerate a person or enable him to be newly reintegrated in society.”

“The mother Church teaches us to be close to those who have been abandoned and who die lonely. This is what Mother Teresa did in the streets of Calcutta and it is what many Christians, those who are not afraid to take the hand of those who are about to leave this world, have done and continue to do. And here too, mercy offers peace to those who depart and to those who remain, making us aware that God is greater than death, and that by staying with Him, even the final separation is only ‘until we meet again.’”

“The Church is a mother,” he continued, “teaching her children the works of mercy.

She has learned this path from Jesus; she has learned that this is essential for salvation. It is not enough to love those who love us. It is not enough to do good to those who do good to us in return. To change the world for the better is it necessary to do good to those who are not able to do the same for us, as our Father did for us, in giving us Jesus. How much have we paid for our redemption? Nothing. It was all free. Doing good without expecting anything in return – this is what our Father did for us and what we too must do.” For this reason, he concluded, “let us give thanks to the Lord, who has given us the grace of having the Church as a mother who teaches us the way of mercy, the way of life.”

“May the Lord reward your faithfulness, inspire you with courage in the struggle against the forces of evil, and open the eyes of those who have been blinded by evil, so that they may soon see the light of truth and repent for the mistakes they have made. May the Lord bless you and protect you always.” (following his general audience on 9/10/14) “In reality, before the Lord we are all sinners and all in need of forgiveness.

All of us. Indeed, Jesus told us not to judge. Fraternal correction is an aspect of the love and the communion that should reign in the Christian community; it is a mutual service that we can and must render to each other … and it is possible and effective only if each person recognizes himself as a sinner and in need of the Lord’s forgiveness.”

(Angelus 9/7/14) “Do not be afraid, go ahead and build bridges of peace, play as a team, and dream of a better future, because the future is in your hands. Dream of the future, flying, but do not forget the cultural, intellectual and religious heritage your elders have handed down to you. Go ahead courageously, and create the future.” (During close of Scholas Occurrentes 9/4/14) “The birth of Jesus from Mary’s womb is indeed the prelude to the rebirth of every Christian and He is the first-born of a multitude of brothers. Therefore, we are able to understand the depth of the relationship between Mary and the Church; when we look to Mary, we see the most beautiful and most tender face of the Church; when we look to the Church, we recognize the sublime features of Mary. We Christians are not orphans.” (General audience 9/3/14) October 2014 7

CF

Get ready for the Catholic Pumpkin Patch!

Catholic Food

by Kim Long

the Little Things

N

ot all groups are made of huge numbers. Not all endeavors must be large. These points were made known to me in a powerful, quiet way over the past 13 years by the group at our church known simply as “the Bible study ladies,” a small but faithful contingent of six (although when school holidays take precedence or someone has an appointment with a doctor our numbers can shift in either direction). Although we are a Bible study group, we alternate with other books as well.

Currently we are working our way through Miriam’s Kitchen by Elizabeth Ehrlich, both a biography and autobiography.

Liz writes with a voice that changes and grows as she herself does. We meet Liz as a cultural Jew who falls in love with the only son of Holocaust survivors. This book works on several levels by telling us the story of Miriam, who in the fullness of time becomes Liz’s mother-in-law, and we see Liz grow in her faith, her marriage and motherhood from her lessons in Miriam’s kitchen. The book is flavored with recipes reflective of the Jewish liturgical year. We applied this to our own lives by taking the subject a bit wider and discussing how these paragraphs reflect our Catholic lives as women, mothers, daughters, grandmothers, granddaughters and daughtersin-law. The conversations are never dull.

One of our members is Winnie, a woman I have known since my early days in Catholicism. Cooking seems to bind us together. Twenty-six years ago my phone

would ring and Winnie’s cheerful voice would ask me for a covered dish. Winnie and I served as part of the bereavement ministry.

Now years later we are still exchanging recipes, lore and growing together in our faith. This past Wednesday, Winnie brought cake to our meeting, but not just any cake: Miriam’s cake! After finishing our session, Winnie announced “there is cake in the kitchen.”

As we quickly brewed a pot of coffee and set out cups and spoons, we oohed and aahed over the cake. Soon we sank our forks into “just a small piece” and then the room went silent – that cake was so good! I tasted the chocolate, the sour cream, the love Winnie stirred into it, the experiences of Miriam’s life and the wisdom of Liz and I heard a tune in my head: the Ray Conniff Singers crooning the chorus of one of my mom’s old favorites, “Love is the sweetest thing, what else on earth could ever bring, such happiness to everything...” My own mother, in heaven for many years, joined us for cake.

I don’t know if my “sisters” had similar thoughts swirling in their own minds as we feasted on cake and wisdom and cared for one another, but I can tell you this, we all shared a common bond of love.

Grandma's Chocolate Sour Cream Cake - 1930’s Cake Ingredients: • ¼ lb sweet butter • 2 ½ oz unsweetened chocolate • 1 cup sugar • 1 tsp baking soda • 1 ¼ cup cake flour • 1 cup sour cream Cake Directions: 1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease pan well. 2) Melt butter and chocolate over a low flame. 3) Beat egg; add sugar and beat; add sour cream and beat. 4) Sift flour and baking soda together and mix. 5) Add melted butter and chocolate.

Mix. 6) Bake at 350 degrees, if one tube pan, for at least 45 minutes; if two small layers, 325 degrees for 30 minutes. 7)

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Cool 10 minutes in pan on rack then turn out and cool for 10 minutes more on rack before frosting.

Frosting Ingredients: • 3 ½ oz unsweetened baker’s chocolate • 3 tbsp. sweet butter • 3 cups sifted powdered sugar • 1 tsp salt • ¼ cup milk • 1 tsp vanilla • dash of instant coffee Frosting Directions: 1) Melt chocolate and butter over hot water or a very low flame. 2) Blend remaining ingredients and add hot chocolate mixture. 3) Let stand in a coolish place. Stir until right consistency.

O

ctober brings a stunning spray of orange that covers the lawn of Mary, Queen of Peace Parish in south Bossier. The parishoners of Mary, Queen of Peace, under the leadership of Deacon Michael Straub, are hosting the 4th Annual Pumpkin Patch in an effort to support the church’s various youth programs. Fellowship abounds as community members pile in and peruse the patch for that perfect, picturesque pumpkin. Please consider visiting our patch.

We are located five miles south of the Jimmie Davis Highway in Bossier City. We will be open for the duration of October, even through Halloween evening. Visit us beginning Oct. 5 during the hours of 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. We will be open on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m., and on Sundays, our hours will be noon - 7:00 p.m.

Don’t forget our Pumpkin Patch Carnival on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. For only $3 admission, children can enjoy all the trunk or treating and games they can stand! We will also have burgers, hot dogs, cotton candy and other delicious treats. Adults will enjoy our large craft booth with various arts and crafts, edible goodies, canned jellies and jams, and plants. This will be a great opportunity to do some Christmas shopping while enjoying the fall atmosphere of the pumpkin patch.

Come join us for the annual fun, and don’t forget to wear your costumes!

For more information, please contact the parish office at 318-752-5971.

by Donna Grimaldi

Church DC Domestic

by Katie Sciba

Affirming Life in Your Marriage Pray, Be Receptive and Show Affection to One Another

H

appy National Respect Life Month!

If there’s any assembly in the world ready to stand for life from conception to natural death, it’s Catholics.

We share articles, pray before clinics and organize events for the noblest of causes.

It’s an uphill battle going against societal norms, but one that must be taken on by courageous souls.

Few may realize, however, that a pro-life cause quite near and dear requires equal bravery, though of a different nature.

I’ve lately realized the importance of openness to life not just within our cities and states, but more specifically within our homes and especially within our marriages. What happens within the family will spread to the world, and what happens in the family starts with the marriage. It takes just two.

In my short six years as a wife, I’ve learned and observed enough to know that marriage calls for a constant effort of communication, compromise and sacrifice from us both. Currently, Andrew and I are adjusting to a new career, juggling three little boys and anticipating the imminent arrival of our baby girl. Lately it feels like we hardly see each other because of how much life demands.

Regardless of what the ins and outs of family life look like for any of us, spouses are easily reduced to casual roommates in a whirlwind of busyness. Andrew joked that sometimes it feels like we’re running a non-profit because our interactions are so often task-oriented that we fail to really see each other. Despite being a common issue, blindness to the personhood of our spouses can develop into a harmful malady in the home; when we don’t recognize the depth of our spouses’ spiritual, emotional and physical needs, they become easy to disregard and disrespect. Keep your eyes

and hearts open to life in your marriage with the following: 1) Pray. Pray for him. Pray for her. Pray for yourself. Pray together. Pray apart. Pray in secret or let them know. A marriage laced with prayer will thrive in joy and be upheld in trials. No need to be too complex – sometimes a simple “God bless Andrew and Mary protect him” suffices, and other times Andrew will offer larger sacrifices for me.

2) Be receptive.

The best advice I’ve ever received for hectic times was to close my mouth and open my ears. Don’t just give your husband or wife a chance to vent; listen and validate their emotions without criticism. A relationship where a person feels free to be vulnerable will be cherished and respected by both spouses.

3) Hug and kiss. Research proves that hugs lasting around 20 seconds decrease stress hormones and increase hormones associated with contentment and trust.

Similarly, giving your sweetie one 15 second kiss every day invokes affection and helps you recall your close relationship to each other. A good hug or kiss can drown out distraction to maintain focus.

During Respect Life Month, revamp how receptive you are to your beloved to encourage life and joy to thrive in your house. A Catholic marriage is never a contract between two persons, but a sacramental covenant among three husband, wife and God Himself, who drew the two of you together according to His purpose. What happens within the family will spread to the world; what happens in the family starts with the marriage; and what starts in the marriage starts with God. It takes just three.

Katie Sciba is the author of thecatholicwife. net. She lives in Shreveport with her husband, Andrew, and three sons, Liam,Thomas & Peter.

Respecting Your Spouse For RESPECT LIFE Month, make sure you can brave the front lines of marriage by being open to the life of your husband or wife. Take care of their spiritual, emotional and physical needs to ensure a tight bond ready to withstand anything.

Pray with and for Each Other

Pray together and apart. A marriage laced with prayer will thrive in joy and be upheld in trials. Your covenantal sacrament has to involve all three of you - husband, wife and God.

Close Your Mouth and Open Your Ears Don’t just give your husband or wife a chance to vent; listen and validate their emotions without criticism to help them know that your heart is a safe place to go.

Cuddle or Pucker Up!

Research proves that hugs lasting 20 seconds decrease stress hormones and increase hormones that trigger contentment and trust. Give your sweetie one 15 second kiss every day to invoke affection and help you recall your close relationship to each other.

October 2014 9

BR

Book Review

by Katie Sciba

Style, Sex, and Substance: 10 Catholic

Women Consider the Things That Really Matter

by Hallie Lord

I

’ve been thinking about what it means to be a Catholic woman and, using the Blessed Virgin Mary as a prototype, I just might have narrowed down the definition: A Catholic woman is hopeful in God’s plan for her; she lives according to that hope, serving the way God has asked her through friendship, marriage, motherhood, or all of the above.

She tries her best to imitate Christ in joy and suffering, working and speaking with love and grace.

I know, I know – a tall order, right? It’s an idea that, though easily defined, is not as easily achieved, nor is it appealing to everyone.

In an age of feminism gone awry, wives, mamas and single ladies at large feel like they have to navigate faithful waters solo, uncertainly basing decisions on what might feel right, and unaware as to how accessible guidance and good company are; yet there are aspects of Catholic living we don’t know about, don’t think about, or maybe we just leave them alone because even deliberate ignorance is bliss. Catholicism is a fraction of our lives, but we might not let it infuse our identity because we don’t realize the joyful freedom that comes from it or, simply put, we don’t understand how to put it into practice.

We have questions about holiness - What is it supposed to look like? Will I lose my identity or even have fun anymore? We have questions about friendship – How do I handle conflict with friends? What do I do with a toxic friendship? Do my close friends challenge me to be a better Catholic woman?

And there’s the ever taboo topic of intimacy - Why does the Church have insight into something so private? How on earth am I supposed to talk about this with my husband? We’re done having kids - why should we suddenly be open to more?

Good news, girls - there’s a book that quite candidly discusses all of the above and more.

Style, Sex, and Substance edited by Hallie Lord is a collaborative effort from 10 Catholic female writers who address the common 10 Catholic Connection

hesitations of others with grace, humor and compassion. With each chapter taken by a different author, Style, Sex, and Substance is real reading on real topics that often go unmentioned, but linger in the backs of our minds.

I picked up this gem a couple years ago and enjoyed a few chapters on my own, and I really started to glean wisdom when my book club selected it for summertime reading.

Each chapter concludes with discussion questions designed to help you consider your behavior and approach to the corresponding topic be it women’s contribution to society, pursuing friendship or lighting a holy spark in marriage; in answering these questions either within the secrecy of my soul or in the openness of my book club, I learned that God calls me to my own particular brand of holiness and that it is accessible and it isn’t boring.

This wouldn’t be a true book review, however, if I failed to mention my reservations. While any reader will be challenged and compelled by chapters 1-9, it’s chapter 10 that left a sour taste in my mouth.

The general theme of Lord’s publication is “in the world, but not of the world,” yet the final section seems to absolve women from avoiding those aspects of the media that would lead us from what is good. The fact is that what we read and watch impacts what we think is acceptable and enticing; regardless of general appeal in music, movies and other media, we should guard ourselves from what is clearly not of God. Overall, however, Style, Sex, and Substance

by Hallie Lord is a read for both the curious and educated Catholic woman. Read it on your own, with a group of girlfriends or in your Bible Study or book club. No matter how you slice it, this book will both affirm and challenge you as a wife, mother, and most importantly, as a daughter of God. This book is available at Barnes and Noble or online at Amazon.com.

Former Ruston Priest Passed Away

O

n August 26th, Fr. Gary Bernhardt, OFM was lost to this world in a tragic boating accident on Lake Taneycomo, near Branson, MO. He was fishing with two other men at the time when their boat capsized, tossing all those on board into the water. Fr. Gary’s two companions managed to survive the incident, but unfortunately Fr. Gary was gravely injured while being swept downstream and later died at the local hospital in Branson.

Fr. Gary served in a number of locations within the Franciscan Province of the Sacred Heart as Secretary of the Province, Spiritual Assistant for the Secular Franciscans, Parochial Vicar and as Pastor of several locations including our own St. Thomas Parish in Ruston where he served faithfully as Pastor from 2004 to 2008. Fr. Gary did a great job in Ruston and was certainly loved by the Catholic community of Lincoln Parish. He was currently serving as Director of Franciscan Charities and the Province Development Director.

Fr. Gary loved fishing, being with his brother Friars and serving the many people he met in his various ministries.

He also loved helping others, especially with his computer knowledge and experience with technology. His cheerful presence and unselfish willingness to put others before himself will be deeply missed.

by John Mark Willcox

Navigating the Faith HUmanae Vitae

by Fr. Matthew Long, Pastor, St. Joseph Parish, Mansfield & St. Ann Church, Stonewall

P

ope Paul VI became pope in 1963 and continued the work of the Second Vatican Council. During his time, he issued one of the most famous papal encyclicals: Humanae Vitae.

This encyclical was a response to a number of changes in the world: the rapid increase in population; the economic difficulty of providing for a large family; a new understanding of the dignity of woman and her place in society, and; the progress of humanity in the domination and organization of nature. (HV 2) The headline “The Pope says no to the Pill” was how this carefully crafted and compassionate letter was introduced to the world. As a result, most have never read it in its entirety, but most believe it is simply the Church’s answer to artificial contraception.

To fully understand this document, one must consider the reason for this difficult decision and the consequences prophesied by Pope Paul VI. This teaching has often been described as oppressive towards women or patriarchal. In reality this teaching applies to married couples, so it is applicable to both men and women.

The document begins with “The transmission of human life is a most serious role in which married people collaborate freely and responsibly with God the Creator.” This reminds us that life comes from God and its transmission is a collaborative effort between a married couple and God. It then moves on to the moral norms regulating married life. They discuss “totality,” wherein, you look at the procreative finality of the marriage and not at each individual act of conjugal love.

This would lead ultimately to regulating the transmission of life by the intelligence and will of the married persons rather than through the “specific rhythms of their own bodies.” (HV3) In approaching the question of human procreation there were two aspects of married love that had to be considered since they were used as justification for artificial birth control: demands of married love and responsible parenthood.

Married love is defined in three parts. 1.

It is total, in that husband and wife share

generously of everything. 2. It is faithful and exclusive. 3. It is fertile, which means it is ordered toward parenthood.

Responsible parenthood was the other item. Many factors should be considered when deciding whether to welcome more children or “for serious reasons and with due respect to moral precepts,” choose to postpone additional children. This requires the husband and wife in “keeping a right order of priorities, recognize their own duties toward God, themselves, their families and human society.” (HV10) One of these duties is to respect the natural law, which shows the marital act to be both unitive, in that it strengthens the union between husband and wife, and procreative, which means that every act must be open to life. (HV11) This doctrine of the natural law means that married people cannot by their own initiative break the unitive or procreative significance which are inherent to the marital act. Sexual intercourse between a husband and wife without the consent of both parties is not unitive and it offends the moral order.

In the same way sexual intercourse between a husband and wife that is not open to life, and therefore not procreative, also offends the moral order. (HV13) Based on natural law and moral law, it was determined that artificial birth control, sterilization and abortion “are to be absolutely excluded as lawful means for regulating the number of children." (HV14) There is an exception to the Church’s position, and that is for the cure of bodily diseases even if it can impede procreation.

This exception should not be interpreted liberally, however. It would be most applicable in situations where sterilization,

such as a hysterectomy, would be necessary.

It is clear that this is only acceptable if the primary motivation is not to prevent children. (HV15) The use of natural methods of family planning is also allowed.

(HV16) This method is not offensive to the moral order because it relies upon the natural cycles of the body, the cooperation of both husband and wife and abstinence, which cultivates virtue (see pg. 12).

One of the most compelling parts of the encyclical is Section 17 where the possible consequences of artificial methods are discussed. Looking back across 46 years helps us to see that many of the consequences feared have come to pass.

One of the first concerns is the effect artificial birth control will have on the faithful and exclusive aspects of married love. “Let them first consider how easily this course of action could open wide the way for marital infidelity and a general lowering of moral standards.” (HV17) Because of the taint of Original Sin, human beings are weak when faced with temptation.

When there are no consequences when breaking the moral law, it becomes easier to yield to temptation. A second concern was that with the use of artificial contraceptives, men would, “forget the reverence due to a woman.” Instead of seeing a woman as a partner who should be shown affection and care, she would become an object to be used for sexual satisfaction.

The last concern was that the power to artificially control birth, once exercised between husband and wife, would be used by public authorities. “Finally, careful consideration should be given to the danger of this power passing into the hands of those public authorities who care little for the precepts of the moral law.” (HV17) This fear was well founded based on the policies already in place by some world governments. There was recognition that governments could and would not necessarily adhere to the divine law and moral law. If this was the case, then they could require artificial birth control, sterilization or even abortion without the consent of the people. The Holy Father felt continued on page 22

October 2014 11

So Just What is

Natural Family

by Kelly Phelan Powell

O

Planning?

ne of the most enduring religious stereotypes is Catholics and their outsized families. We even poke fun at ourselves a bit – we joke and say that when you see a family with 10 children, you know they must be either Catholic or Mormon, because almost no one else has that many kids anymore. But unlike many stereotypes, this one contains a lot of truth. We can laugh at ourselves – always a healthy practice – but in reality, we know that as Roman Catholics, our attitude toward children and families is a serious matter, one that’s rooted in God’s very design of man and woman, in the authority He bestowed upon Peter and the other Apostles and in the nature of Holy Matrimony itself.

One of the Church’s most definitive and politically controversial pronouncements on the subject of marriage and birth control came in the form of Humanae Vitae (Of Human Life), written by Pope Paul VI and issued on July 25, 1968 (see pg. 11). At the time, the cultural and moral compass of nearly the entire world was roiling from the effects of the Vietnam War, free love, feminism and, of course, The Pill. Not surprisingly, many criticized and even condemned Humanae Vitae as fervently as others supported it.

But reading it today, it’s sometimes difficult to remember that it was published nearly 50 years ago. With phrases like “Everything therefore in the modern means of social communication which arouses men’s baser passions and encourages low moral standards...”, it’s chillingly prescient.

In 2014, artificial forms of birth control are less an issue of dispute and more a matter of course; any adult woman who’s anywhere near childbearing age knows this to be true. In a doctor’s office, one of the first questions the nurse asks when he or she comes in to take a female patient’s vital signs is, “What form of birth control do you use?” By this, of course, they always mean hormonal birth control like pills, injections or IUDs or barrier methods like diaphragms and condoms. If a woman answers that she doesn’t use any of those, then I can report from personal experience that they look at her like she’s crazy, stupid or simply bald-faced lying (“I won’t tell the pope,” one assured me). In our culture, it’s almost unthinkable that an adult – especially if he or she is married! – wouldn’t do everything medically possible to avoid having children unless they’re meticulously planned.

But why does the Church proclaim that using artificial forms of birth control is contrary to God’s will in our lives? It’s because openness to new life is by definition part of the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. “The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the 12 Catholic Connection

procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised

by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament…By its very nature the institution of marriage and married love is ordered to the procreation and education of the offspring and it is in them that it finds its crowning glory.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, Article 7, “The Sacrament of Matrimony,” 1601 and 1652) “A husband and wife are supposed to do everything they can to help each other get to heaven – we don’t just live for ourselves,” said Fr. Peter Mangum of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans. So although children are not necessary to the matrimonial covenant (“Spouses to whom God has not granted children can nevertheless have a conjugal life full of meaning, in both human and Christian terms. Their marriage can radiate a fruitfulness of charity, of hospitality, and of sacrifice.” 1654), “the refusal of fertility turns married life away from its ‘supreme gift,’ the child.” (1664).

Though most outside of Catholicism latched onto Humanae Vitae’s reaffirmation that artificial forms of birth control are morally unacceptable, the Magisterium actually recognized that there are a number of valid reasons why a married couple may wish to avoid pregnancy for a time: If therefore there are well-grounded reasons for spacing births, arising from the physical or psychological condition of husband or wife, or from external circumstances, the Church teaches that married people may then take advantage of the natural cycles immanent in the reproductive system and engage in marital intercourse only during those times that are infertile, thus controlling birth in a way which does not in the least offend the moral principles which We have just explained. (HV 20) And there is indeed a way, one that’s healthier, more natural, inexpensive or even free and statistically almost as effective as the birth control pill. It’s called Natural Family Planning or NFP, and it uses a woman’s basal body temperature and observations about changes in her body to determine when she is and is not fertile.

A well-conducted study performed in Germany and published in 2007 found the Sympto-Thermal Method of NFP to be 98.2 percent effective, compared to hormonal birth control’s claim of 99 percent effectiveness.

Not only is NFP highly effective at spacing births, it’s also a godsend for women who have experienced infertility. One of the most demoralizing and heart-wrenching problems a couple can face, it’s one where even many priests struggle to provide comfort

and guidance. Fr. Peter admits he can scarcely about 60 percent cumulative live birth rate. There is also a much imagine facing such an obstacle. But he lower rate of multiple gestation pregnancies (twins and triplets) pointed out that traditional fertility treatments and pre-term birth with NaPro compared to IVF. This is important often run counter to the Church’s teachings because multiple gestation pregnancies are at higher risk for regarding the sanctity of human life and the dignity complications and premature delivery. Premature delivery is the of the person. Dr. David Parker, an OB/GYN at number-one cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Therefore, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka, IN, we should be highly motivated to use techniques that reduce these explained further, “[Intrauterine insemination and IVF] do not risks to newborns.” involve acts of intercourse and violate the unitive aspect of marital Like all morally- and religiously-motivated courses of action, intercourse. Additionally, in vitro fertilization also presents a moral NFP and NaPro are easily misunderstood. And unfortunately, quandary of producing multiple embryos that stay in suspended they’re also unknown to many Catholic laypeople and not entirely frozen animation, violating the dignity and personhood of the understood by some priests. Fr. Peter said priests learn of NFP embryo.” Put simply, said Fr. Peter, “We’re playing God; there’s a in seminary as part of their study of the Sacrament of Holy picking and choosing. The sanctity of human life – we don’t tamper Matrimony and the Church’s expectations for married couples, but with that.” still, some are unaware of its many benefits and the wide range of Fortunately, there’s a morally conditions it can treat. Dr. Parker said acceptable alternative that’s also highly NaPro can be utilized for multiple Not only is NFP highly effective. Dr. Parker specializes in gynecologic issues, including abnormal NaProTECHNOLOGY (short for bleeding, polycystic ovarian syndrome, effective at spacing Natural Procreative Technology, also premenstrual tension syndrome, called NaPro), the medical application recurrent ovarian cysts and pelvic pain. births, it’s also of the Creighton Model System of That’s why education is so important. gynecologic charting developed by “If everyone had a good understanding Dr. Thomas W. Hilgers and others at of what NFP is, they would be more the Pope Paul VI Institute in Omaha, likely to try it,” said Fr. Peter.

NE. Dr. Parker said that as a young Among those working to educate gynecologist, Hilgers was inspired by the faithful about NFP are two of Humanae Vitae to develop an effective, the people who inspired Dr. Parker fertility-awareness-based method of family planning that couples to find a way to practice obstetrics and gynecology without could use to either achieve or avoid pregnancy. “He began to notice compromising his faith – his parents, Dr. William and Mary distinct patterns in the charts of patients who had, for example, Frances Parker. “Having grown up in a large, happy Catholic infertility or recurrent miscarriage,” Dr. Parker said. “He began to family, I had experienced first hand how life-giving love can have a investigate their cycles using targeted hormonal blood tests and transformative effect. I am grateful to my parents for giving me the ultrasound evaluation as well as diagnostic surgeries to look for the gift of my seven siblings and imparting the faith to me,” he said. underlying causes of these issues. From there, he developed medical For close to 20 years, the Parkers, who are members of St. Joseph and surgical treatments to normalize the cycle, thus treating the Parish in Shreveport, have taught couples, both Catholic and nonunderlying causes of the infertility.”

Catholic alike, the Sympto-Thermal Method of NFP, in which But does it work? It certainly does, said Dr. Parker. “NaPro is they are certified through the Couple to Couple League (ccli.org). comparable in effectiveness to Assisted Reproductive Technology Mary Frances’s philosophy regarding NFP echoes part of Humanae (traditional fertility treatments) and also does not use morally Vitae: “…husband and wife are ready to abstain from intercourse objectionable techniques. In general, the cumulative live birth rate during the fertile period as often as for reasonable motives the birth in couples that suffer from infertility or recurrent miscarriage is of another child is not desirable. And when the infertile period about 60 percent. The cumulative live birth rate for an attempt at recurs, they use their married intimacy to express their mutual love IVF is about 40 percent, with multiple attempts at IVF reaching and safeguard their fidelity toward one another. In doing this they

“

a godsend for women who have experienced infertility”

October 2014 13

certainly give proof of a true and authentic love.” new and exciting when “Why are we abstaining? Why are we putting periods of abstinence off having children? If you desire each other and are practiced.” Another are denying yourself, you want to have a good positive aspect of NFP reason for it,” Mary Frances said. “Our fertility is that it strengthens a is part of who we are. To ignore the fertile aspect couple’s relationship with of yourself is inherently disrespectful.” In other God. “[You’re] trusting words, the decision to space births, regardless of that God has a plan for the reason, in order to be holy, must carry with it you and your family,” she some personal sacrifice, a self-denial. In contrast, said. when a person uses birth control pills, for But the moral instance, there is no self-denial necessary – in that implications of artificial circumstance, the couple can engage in sexual birth control methods relations any time, and in doing so, they not only aren’t the only reason nonignore their own and each other’s fertility, they Catholics are increasingly becoming interested no longer have to consider the reasons why they in learning and using NFP. “Apart from the don’t want to have a child at this time. NFP, on moral issue, it’s healthy for the body,” said Mary the other hand, “helps you to grow in reality, Frances. Dr. Parker explained, “Contraceptives because our actions have consequences – the are composed of various chemicals, such as things you do mean something,” she said. artificial hormones and even metals. Current So it’s easy to see how NFP fosters research studies have shown that the use of communication between couples. “It requires contraceptives are linked to breast cancer, cervical that they communicate,” Mary Frances pointed cancer, stroke, blood clots and even multiple out. The couple must continually communicate sclerosis. Also, most hormonal contraceptives about the wife’s cycle, when they can and should are considered pregnancy category X, meaning enjoy sex and their reasons for either avoiding that they have been shown to cause serious fetal or trying to achieve pregnancy. And this creates abnormalities in pregnancy. When there is a a connection that makes for healthy marriages, method failure with hormonal contraceptives something Fr. Peter notices in the couples in his and the woman does not realize she is pregnant parish who practice NFP. “Their communication and continues taking the contraceptive, she is level skyrockets – it’s so much higher,” he said. exposing her offspring to a toxic chemical.”

Mary Frances agrees. “The woman and the “Natural Family Planning is just that – couple are cooperating with her natural cycles. natural,” Dr. Parker continued. “It doesn’t utilize It brings a level of communication that’s not contraceptives or procedures that can place the there if you’re ignoring an entire aspect of your mother and baby’s health at risk. Additionally, humanity.”

NFP charting is a great way to monitor overall Lauren Merrick, who, along with her health.” Merrick agreed and added, “It’s healthy, husband, David, participates in St. Joseph Parish’s safe, inexpensive and easy once you have learned engaged couples the method.” ministry, agrees that Fr. Peter said he wishes Openness to new life the advantages of more NFP couples would using NFP from get to know each other is by definition part of the a relationship and support one another, standpoint are a sentiment resounding numerous. She said almost exactly from it makes the husband Humanae Vitae close to part of the process, half a century later: getting him involved Among the fruits that with charting and ripen if the law of God be asking important questions. “It requires you resolutely obeyed, the most precious is certainly this, to reevaluate monthly where you stand as to that married couples themselves will often desire to whether or not you are trying to achieve or communicate their own experience to others. Thus it avoid pregnancy. Having this monthly dialogue comes about that in the fullness of the lay vocation secures that you and your husband can honestly will be included a novel and outstanding form of and openly discuss where you are when it comes the apostolate by which, like ministering to like, to family planning. ‘Are we ready for a child? married couples themselves by the leadership they Financially, physically, emotionally?’” Many are offer will become apostles to other married couples. initially skeptical when they learn that another And surely among all the forms of the Christian benefit is increased intimacy. “Some call it the apostolate it is hard to think of one more opportune ‘honeymoon effect,’” she said, “because it remains for the present time. (HV 26) •3

“

Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.”

14 Catholic Connection

Couples who want to learn more about NFP and NaPro have a number of resources available to them.

To reach Mary Frances Parker and find a NFP class, call St. Joseph Parish in Shreveport at (318) 865-3581 or email the Cathedral parish’s OneLife Ministry at onelife@sjbcathedral.org.

To register for online classes, visit the Couple to Couple League website at http://ccli.org To learn more about NaProTECHNOLOGY, go to www.popepaulvi.com

Corner VC Vocations

by Martin Aviles-Vazquez

Vocations Corner

HUman Life Matters

Beginning the Discernment Process for Religious LIfe

by Claire Vidrine

I Martin Aviles-Vazquez (far left) with Hispanic youth group.

L

ast year the apostolic committee at St. Joseph Seminary in Covington, LA organized a pro-life rosary outside an abortion clinic in New Orleans and a visit to the Woman’s New Life Center, a pro-life center that helps women in moments of pregnancy crisis, located next to the abortion clinic. After the tour, they gave a talk that made me realize that as a Catholic I was not doing enough to defend human life and that abortion not only destroys the life of the baby, but also causes great physical and psychological pain to the abortive parents. After this experience and others, I became an activist for the pro-life movement.

I feel called to do as much as possible to defend the right to life for the unborn. I shared with Marcos Villalba, diocesan Coordinator of Hispanic Youth and Young Adults, my wish to educate young people about pro-life culture. A few days later he invited me to join him in giving a talk to a Hispanic young adult group at Christ the King Parish. We had a very good response especially because God sent us a man who gave his testimony that night. He reaffirmed what I heard at the pro-life center in New Orleans: that abortion affects both women and men. The pro-life movement is supportive and compassionate, following the example of Jesus. There are centers that offer help to both female and male victims of abortion. As Christians we have to remember God loves us so much and there is no sin He will not forgive.

The National Pro-Life movement “Priests for Life,” says on their website, “abortions are based in a double lie, denying that the ‘fetus’ is a human being, just as we are and saying that ‘abortion helps women’.” The truth is abortion hurts women, physically and psychologically. Many women harden their hearts against their baby, worrying only about themselves. Being a pro-life person means being pro-woman. The pro-life message is not about “love the baby and forget the woman.”

Finally, I want to motivate all people reading this article, to join in the pro-life movement and work together to defend human life. Statistics show that for every 50 hours a person works in pro-life activities, one life is saved. I am convinced that the pro-life movement will win out. More and more young adults are asserting that they are pro-life, as evidenced by the March for Life in Washington that takes place each January and has more and more participation of young people each year.

Martin Aviles-Vazquez is a seminarian for the Diocese of Shreveport in second year college at St. Joseph Seminary in St. Benedict, LA.

n addition to being a freshman at Louisiana Tech, I am one of many women going through the discernment process for religious life in our diocese. This calling is not the “easy path.”

Hearing the voice of God is hard. There also seems to be a lack of information available for women who want to become religious, and there is the stigma of societal perception – this isn’t a normal profession for most people.

I know for me, the thought of religious life appears like a ball of clay. As I knead the clay in my hands, I am discovering minute details, ones which otherwise might not have become apparent if I had not taken up the clay. As of now, I do not fully accept the task being a nun, but I entertain the thought. It is in my kneading of the idea that I keep my perseverance and maintain faith in His plan, for He will give me aid in all that is meant to be.

God’s voice is a difficult one to hear, let alone interpret. It is difficult to know what roads to take in order to obtain the longed for destination. This took time. I realized that in order to hear His voice I had to first spend as much time with Him as possible. I had to develop and mature how I prayed. I did this through many resources, but the most beneficial for me has been Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. There I am able to have an open dialogue with Christ. Once I accepted that He will only lead me to where He wants me to be, then what is there to fear?

The next step in this process was to find the most information I could about religous life. The only credible knowledge I had came in small bits from my PSR classes, annual Vocation Awareness Sundays and the wonderful example of Sr. Edith Schnell, OP at St. Paschal Parish. So I turned to my trusty friend, Google. When I did a generalized search though, I became more confused than when I started. I then decided to look into the information my church already had in the back of the gathering space concerning vocations. To my dismay, the only good substantive material was concerning priesthood, so once again I was in a bit of a bind.

Fr. Matthew Long, our diocesan Vocations Director, was at Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish where I grew up, so I knew him well. I implored his aid in this process. He gave me some assistance and suggested a few convents I might like to look into, but women’s religious vocations is not an area of immense knowledge for him.

So, I was again left with more questions, and few leads.

In prayer I was given the idea to turn to reading about the women saints. Now I know that the year 1607, which St. Jane Frances de Chantal lived in is much different than the present, but the most important aspects are all present: their call to religious life, their unwavering faith to God and all the good they were able to do for God’s kingdom.

If you are like me and discerning your vocation, I would suggest first that you pray. Then try talking to a religious or priest in your local parish. They sincerely want to help you find your calling and follow God’s path for you. Also, check websites of various religious orders to learn about their upcoming retreats for women and get in touch with their Vocations Directors. Do not feel overwhelmed.

Pray for God’s guidance through the Holy Spirit, and trust in His plan for your life.

October 2014 15

NEWS

Celebrate All Souls Day at St. Joseph Cemetery

N

ovember 2, is the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, All Souls Day. On this day we commemorate the souls of all the faithful departed, not just relatives, but all baptized Christians who are believed to be in purgatory.

Roman Catholic doctrine holds that the prayers of the faithful on earth will help cleanse those souls in order to prepare them for the vision of God in heaven.

Every year members of the clergy visit most of the cemeteries in the area for the annual Blessing of the Graves. This is a right observed by the Roman Catholic Church. This year Msgr. Earl Provenza, Pastor of Holy Trinity, Deacon Jorge Martinez of Holy Trinity and Deacon John Basco, of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans will be officiating at the Blessing of the Graves at 2 pm, November 2, 2014, at St. Joseph Cemetery.

As part of our initiative to raise awareness and interest in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, located at 2100 Texas Ave. in Shreveport, there will be several activities planned for the upcoming All Souls Day observance on November 2. Deacon John Basco will escort the RCIA group from the Cathedral at 12:30 p.m. for a tour of the cemetery and a short presentation on the history of the cemetery and Catholic burial services. If you are interested, please join the RCIA group for the presentation. It will last approximately one hour.

Members of the Sons of Italy Organization are planning a group gathering and picnic to celebrate All Souls Day. In our diocese the Italian and Hispanic cultures celebrate November 2 with special observances: family and public gatherings, food and drink, visiting and remembrances of the faithful departed.

The Sons of Italy will also be presenting the cemetery with a bench in memory of the living and departed members of the Italian community. There will be a tent with chairs, courtesy of H & H Services, and bottled water, compliments of St. Joseph Broadmoor Federal Credit Union, for the Blessing of the Graves, the history presentation and the dedication and blessing of the memorial bench.

Everyone is invited to share in this wonderful opportunity to visit the final resting places of departed loved ones, to share family stories and histories as well as see the continual changes, facelift and future growth of the only Catholic cemetery in Northwest Louisiana. If anyone or a group wants to visit the cemetery or tour the cemetery please contact the Diocesan cemetery offices at the Catholic Center, 318-868-4441.

by Randy G. Tiller, Director of Mission Effectiveness 16 Catholic Connection

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Annual Blessing of Cemeteries

he Church seeks to help the faithful departed, especially those souls in purgatory, 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 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 pray for our dearly departed with gratitude, love and devotion. Our belief in Christ’s resurrection from the dead is the reason we commemorate our faithful departed on All Souls Day and bless their graves. We entrust them once again to the purifying, lifegiving love of the One eternal God who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Our priests and deacons will offer prayers at our local cemeteries on the weekends closest to All Souls Day, our annual commemoration of the faithful departed, on the following dates:

Saturday, October 25

Forest Park Cemetery West, Shreveport Rev. James McLelland, Deacon Jeff Chapman, Deacon Daniel LeMoine

1:00 pm

Lincoln Park Cemetery, Shreveport Deacon Burt Ainsworth

1:00 pm

Round Grove Cemetery, Shreveport 1:00 pm Rev. Andre McGrath, OFM, Deacon Charles Thomas

Sunday, October 26

Rose-Neath Cemetery, Bossier City Deacon Freeman Ligon, Deacon Larry Mills

2:00 pm

Forest Park Cemetery East, Shreveport 2:00 pm Deacon Steve Lehr, Deacon Mike Wise, Deacon Daniel LeMoine

Saturday, November 1

Hillcrest Cemetery, Haughton 2:00 pm Rev. Karl Daigle, Deacon Bill Roche, Deacon Ricardo Rivera Centuries Memorial Cemetery, Shreveport Rev. Michael Thang’wa, Deacon Mike Whitehead St. Mary Church, Rambin Rev. Matthew Long

1:00 pm

Following 10:00 am Mass

Graves at Carmel Rev. Matthew Long

5:30 pm

Sunday, November 2

St. Joseph Cemetery, Shreveport 2:00 pm Msgr. Earl Provenza, Deacon John Basco, Deacon Jorge Martinez Carver Cemetery, Shreveport Rev. Mark Franklin, Rev. John Paul Crispin, FHM St. Ann Church, Stonewall Rev. Matthew Long

2:00 pm

Following 9:00 am Mass

Mansfield Cemetery, Highland Cemetery and St. Francis Cemetery (Frierson) Following 11:00 am Mass at St. Joseph Parish, Mansfield Rev. Matthew Long Consult your local parish for the blessing of graves not listed here, especially at parishes that have Catholic cemeteries.

Matthew 25 Partnership at Catholic Charities

Seeds of Peace Program at Grace Home

ave you ever had a project that began with laying a foundation? If you have, then you know how important it is to place each stone or brick in a way that, when used together, will support your project. Alone they won’t be the foundation needed, but all of them together can build the lasting foundation you hope for. That was what Executive Director Jean Dresley and the Catholic Charities board of directors intended when they launched the Matthew 25 Partnership last year. It is that monthly commitment, the bricks that support all six programs of assistance of Catholic Charities of North Louisiana, they had in mind. The message of Matthew 25 resounded with each of them and is the impetus for this important initiative.

At his weekly address on August 6, Pope Francis asked that we as Christians remember the beatitudes and *“impress them on our hearts.” He also reminded us that living our Christianity requires us to follow Jesus’s teachings as directed in Matthew 25. “At the end of the world, we will be judged and what will the questions be that the judge will ask? They are listed in Matthew 25: 35-36: Did you feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, care for the sick and visit the prisoner? Living according to the beatitudes and the criteria listed in Matthew 25 should fill each Christian with joy because together they make our Christian life a beautiful and credible witness to the love of God for all the brothers and sisters we meet each day.”

When our doorbell rings at Catholic Charities and we greet an individual or family that has come to us seeking our help, we understand that God has brought us another opportunity to live Matthew 25! The poor are accustomed to being shuffled about, ignored or mistreated and often they accept those conditions because they feel they have no choice. We see their faces full of anxiety and desperation and know the simple act of listening is important, but along with listening, we understand the significance of following the Matthew 25 teachings in everything we do for the most vulnerable among us. That is our ultimate goal and we do that by offering education to move people forward toward a life less filled with crisis and stress, one in which they have shelter, clothing, food and other basic needs met. We do it by teaching them how to budget income, how to care for their infants and small children, how to prepare healthy affordable meals for their family. We help them learn English and assist with the paperwork necessary to live and work in this country. Ultimately, all our programs and all the assistance we give measures up to these reminders made so clear in Matthew 25.

We ask that you prayerfully consider becoming a partner with us in this work and join Matthew 25. You can learn more on our web site, www.ccnla.org or by calling 318-865-0200. *Catholic News Service August 2014 *www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1403277.htm

by Theresa Mormino, Catholic Charities of NLA

o one wants to need the services of Grace Home, but for many families, hospice care for a loved one is an undeniable reality. However, we are fortunate to have a facility like Grace Home, a 16-bed residential hospice designed specifically for care of the terminally ill and the only residential hospice in Northwest Louisiana, in our community. “Grace Home allowed my father-in-law to pass with peace and dignity surrounded by those he loved,” said Tanya Harville. “The staff was there to assist not only him but our entire family through the end-of-life stages. Grace Home is an invaluable asset to our area, one we are forever grateful for.”

One of the many things that makes Grace Home so special to patients and their families is the Seeds of Peace program, which provides and maintains bird feeders and planter boxes that are placed outside the patients’ windows in hopes of bringing peace and tranquility during their final days. Begun by Kay Nader at St. Joseph Parish in Shreveport, “it’s something to take patients’ minds off their day-to-day situation and enjoy nature,” said Donna Seal of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, which now administers the program as one of its outreach ministries.

Volunteers fill up bird feeders and weed and water the planter boxes. Airmen and personnel from Barksdale Air Force Base are among the dozens of volunteers. Not surprisingly, volunteers find themselves as blessed by the program as the patients are. As one volunteer posted in the Seeds of Peace Facebook group, “I just came out of [a room] and the patient told me how much she enjoyed watching the people work in the flower boxes outside of her room today. The birds feeding brings her much pleasure so I am able to convey to you the rewards of what the Cathedral ministry means to this beautiful child of God in the last days of her life.”

The volunteers do their best to maintain the feeders and boxes, but being wooden and constantly exposed to the elements, “they need a little TLC,” said Seal. The Seeds of Peace program is currently requesting monetary donations to offset the cost of replacing some of the feeders and planter boxes as well as birdseed and other necessities for maintenance.

If you wish to donate and help continue the Seeds of Peace program, please contact the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans at 318-221-5296.

by Kelly Phelan Powell

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October 2014 17

HISPANIC corner Más de Dos Décadas de Servicio Fiel a la Comunidad Hispana

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a Sra. Juanita Ibarra trabajó voluntaria, ardua y continuamente para la comunidad Hispana de la parroquia de San José en Mansfield, Luisiana como coordinadora desde el establecimiento de la comunidad en el año 1993.

Entre las actividades más destacadas en la comunidad de San José, se realizan novenas a la Virgen de Guadalupe, Posadas y otras actividades religiosas como la celebración del aniversario por el establecimiento de la comunidad también en el mes de diciembre. Esta comunidad ha sido limitada en servicios pero Juanita se aseguró que se recibiera preparación para recibir los sacramentos, coordinación de servidores a la Misa, traducciones para la iglesia y para servicios sociales como educación pública, ayudando con transporte, servicios médicos y aún en la corte y estaciones de policía.

El trabajo de un coordinador o coordinadora es esencial para que la comunidad hispana crezca. La persona que acepta esta posición, debe llenar los siguientes requisitos aprobados por el Obispo Michael G. Duca: a. Ayudar a los líderes parroquiales (Sacerdotes, consejo parroquial y otros) a guiar a la comunidad Hispana a vivir la misión de la Iglesia y compartir la Palabra de Jesús. b. Ser el medio de comunicación entre el sacerdote y la comunidad Hispana

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por Rosalba Quiroz 318-868-4441

en las diferentes áreas de responsabilidades. c. Conocer y descubrir los talentos de los parroquianos e invitarlos a servir donde la comunidad los necesite. d. Reunir a los responsables de las diferentes áreas o ministerios para coordinar los esfuerzos comunes en beneficio de eventos, formación, finanzas, etc. e. Motivar y ayudar a los responsables de cada ministerio. Servir de nexo entre su comunidad y el Comité Diocesano de Asesores Hispanos (DHAC). f. Aprovechar la formación de clases y conferencias disponibles para continuar creciendo en la fe y el conocimiento.

Agradecemos a Juanita por su lealtad y dedicación estos veinte años de servicio que aunque con pocos recursos y mucha necesidad, dedicó su vida al servicio de su

parroquia. Ahora la comunidad tiene que continuar pidiendo a Dios y al sacerdote de la parroquia de San José que asignen a otra persona con los talentos y la disponibilidad que tuvo Juanita a desempeñar esta misión.

Así mismo pidámosle al Señor y trabajemos para que la parroquia de San Pablo en Minden pueda recuperarse y reanudar las actividades que han estado suspendidas desde febrero del 2012.

Calendario del Mes de Octubre 2014 4 Reunión en preparación para el retiro Experiencia Cristo, Centro Católico, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

27-29 Conferencia Nacional de Pastoral Juvenil Hispana a nivel diocesano, San Antonio, TX

8 Taller de VIRTUS, Protegiendo los Niños de Dios, Parroquia de Cristo Rey, 6:30 p.m.

30-Nov 2 Conferencia Nacional de Ministerio Hispano, San Antonio, TX.

11 Reunión de coordinadores(as) de las comunidades hispanas, Centro Católico, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

across the by the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops

STATEMENT ON THE U.S. SENATE’S ATTEMPT TO REVERSE U.S. SUPREME COURT’S HOBBY LOBBY DECISION

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ast month, the U.S. Senate tried our nation over the moral and legal to do something Congress has status of abortion, American lawmakers never done before – pass legislation have generally been able to agree that designed to reduce Americans’ religious the government should not force freedom. This should be a grave concern people to take part in such evils. Here to all who value our fundamental in Louisiana, health care providers are freedoms. protected from being required to violate The new threat their conscience is a bill called on abortion or In fact the bill is much the “Protect abortifacient broader.

It states that when Women’s Health drugs. The new From Corporate bill is a radical the federal government Interference departure from decides to mandate Act” (S. 2578). this tradition. any item in health plans Supporters say Last month the it would reverse Senate narrowly nationwide, no one the U.S. Supreme failed to achieve has a right to object Court’s Hobby the 60 votes that it violates their Lobby decision, needed to advance so for-profit S. 2578, but it can religion. corporations can be taken up again be forced to cover when Congress “contraceptives” (including potentially resumes its work in September. We abortifacient drugs) in their health plans encourage all of those who care about despite their religious objections. freedom of conscience, Catholic and In fact the bill is much broader. It non-Catholic alike, to urge our federal states that when the federal government lawmakers to oppose this and similar decides to mandate any item in health legislation. We need more respect for plans nationwide, no one has a right religious freedom in our nation, not less. to object that it violates their religion.

The government mandate will override Most Rev. Gregory M. Aymond “any other provision of federal law” that Archbishop of New Orleans stands in the way – whether that law Most Rev. Michael Jarrell protects for-profit employers, non-profit Bishop of Lafayette charitable organizations like the Little Most Rev. Robert W. Muench Sisters of the Poor, insurers, employees, Bishop of Baton Rouge or individual women purchasing health care for their families on our state health Most. Rev. Ronald P. Herzog exchange. Just as contraceptives have Bishop of Alexandria been mandated as a “preventive service” Most Rev. Glen John Provost to avert pregnancy, coverage for all Bishop of Lake Charles abortions, including late-term abortions, could be mandated to avoid live Most Rev. Michael G. Duca births – and any federal law protecting Bishop of Shreveport conscience on abortion would be null Most Rev. Shelton J. Fabre and void.

Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux Despite grave disagreements across

Vatican Information Services

VAtICAN news & notes •Pope Francis has accepted the invitation to visit the European Parliament and to address its members during a solemn session. The visit will take place on November 25.

•The sixth meeting of the Council of Cardinals with the Holy Father began September 15 and continued through September 17. The Council of Cardinals was instituted by Pope Francis to assist in the governance of the universal Church and to draw up a plan for the revision of the apostolic constitution “Pastor bonus” on the Roman Curia.

• On September 14, Pope Francis celebrated the marriage of 20 couples from Rome, the diocese of which he is bishop, during a Holy Mass celebrated in St. Peter's Basilica.

• On September 15 the Security Council of the United Nations began its peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic, to promote peace and protect the civil population that is suffering the consequences of a longstanding conflict. Pope Francis said, “I assure the peacekeepers of the support and prayer of the Catholic Church, and encourage the efforts of the international community to come to the aid of Central Africans of good will. May the violence give way to dialogue as soon as possible, and may the opposing forces set aside their particular interests and make the necessary provisions to ensure that every citizen, of every ethnic and religious group, may collaborate in constructing the common good.

May the Lord accompany this work for peace!”, he exclaimed.

October 2014 19

school NEWS < St. John Berchmans School was honored to have special guests visit their school on August 15. Bishop Michael Duca presided over the school Mass and then blessed each of the classrooms. He was joined by visiting priest, Fr. Felix van Meerbergen, Pastor of St. Sulpice Church in Diest, Belgium. St. Sulpice Church is where St. John Berchmans was baptized as a child.

Fr. Felix visited with students and answered questions about their patron saint, St. John Berchmans. Pictured with Bishop Duca and Fr. Felix are Fr. Peter Mangum, Pastor of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, and Principal Jo Cazes.

^ St. Joseph School hosted Bingo and Burgers Night at East Ridge Country Club on August 23. This was a chance for SJS parents to meet their new priests, Fr. Mark Franklin and Fr. Michael Thang’wa, and have good food and good fun doing it! Pictured: Fr. Michael with Sr. Ann Middlebrooks, showing off his prize! > Loyola College Prep’s Ashley Spain, Sabrina Mashburn, Max Morgan and Jonathan Li attended Louisiana Youth Seminar this summer as part of the weeklong leadership camp held on the campus of Louisiana State University.

During LYS, students go through a series of skill building exercises focused on leadership skills. Through a series of hands on experiences, they use their newly developed skills in a group setting to discover that leadership is not merely a matter of position or authority, but a 20 Catholic Connection

^ Kathy Terracina, Jesus the Good Shepherd School’s new PE coach, told her students that winners of the PACER (Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run) test would get to drench her in ice cold water. Sixth graders Camille Bonnecaze,Victoria Frusha, Alex Rightsell and Nelson Sparks were the winners! matter of action.

The Loyola students had a blast at LYS and brought home many memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

They learned leadership skills that they will use towards bettering the student organizations at LCP and their community. LYS is highly recommended for any rising junior or senior that would like to obtain new leadership and communication skills, and also create some indescribable bonds with other high school students from across the state.

^ Bishop Duca celebrated Mass with Our Lady of Fatima School and afterwards visited classrooms. Pictured: Bishop Michael Duca visits Ms. Courtney Dean’s PreK-4 class.

around the DIOCESE

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Some of the members of the last graduating class at St Matthew High School (1964) met for their 50th reunion recently. They celebrated Mass at St. Matthew Parish and then enjoyed Italian specialities at Monjunis in Monroe.

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Both men and women were invited to attend August’s Magnificat Brunch, held at the Catholic Center. During the event, Fr. Long talked about his conversion to the Catholic faith and his journey to the priesthood. Bishop Duca was the special guest. Praise and worship was led by band Broken Chains from St. Jude Parish.

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St. Theresa's Circle honored Rev. Jéan Bosco Uwamungu and Deacon Jerry Daigle, Jr. with an appreciation dinner held Sept. 2 in the cafeteria. Mrs. Boudreaux and Mrs. Loupe each read prayers for priests and then Rev. Bosco gave the blessing before the meal. Everyone enjoyed getting to know their new priest and deacon and sharing a meal with them in appreciation of their service to their community.

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On Tuesday, July 29th, Dr. Ajay Jawahar, father of Stuti Jawahar, spoke at St. Joseph Parish - Shreveport about his faith throughout the ordeal of his daughter’s life changing automobile accident in January 2012. Dr. Jawahar spoke of Stuti’s strength, courage and faith during her recovery. Stuti’s story and the journey of her family is both inspirational and touching!

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The Hispanic Youth and Young Adult Ministry had a successful fifth retreat for local Hispanic teens during BUSQUEDA V in Scottsville, TX. A special thanks to everyone for their prayers and for the team and Fr. Price, Fr. Francis, Fr. Al, Fr. Rigo, Sr. Lizbeth and seminarian Martin Aviles-Vazquez for their help and support during this retreat.

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upcoming EVENTS Through - November 2: 40 Days for Life Since 40 Days for Life began less than seven years ago, dozens of babies have been saved in Shreveport-Bossier! We are making a real impact and so can you! For more information, call or e-mail campaign director Chris Davis at 318-349-3279, or christopherpatrickdavis@gmail.com.

October 5: Multicultural Rosary Sunday, October 5 beginning at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Parish, 204 Patton Avenue in Shreveport. This is a diocese-wide event.

All are invited. For more information call Kay Nader at 318-286-1590.

October 5: St. Francis Day Blessing of the Animals and Low Cost Vaccination Clinic St. Mary of the Pines Parish will host a blessing ot the pets and low cost pet vaccination clinic on Sunday October 5 from 2pm - 5pm in the church parking lot, located at 1050 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop in Shreveport. For more information, call 318-286-5394 or 318-687-5121.

October 10 & 11: St. Joseph Parish Shreveport to Host Speaker Anne Trufant for a weekend retreat on "Evangelization" October 10 and 11. Anne was privileged to work with Mother Teresa. Anne and her husband now reside in North Carolina where they own and direct Camp Kahdalea for girls and Camp Chosatonga for boys. Anne and David are also cofounders of Change Lives Now, Inc., a non-profit organization working to provide a future with hope for those struggling with social and spiritual deprivation, in war-torn areas of Africa. Please join us on Oct. 10 from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. and Oct. 11 from 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (women only). On Saturday night, the retreat will be from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. for both men and women. All events will be held in the St. Joseph Family Life Center. For more information, contact the church office at 318-865-3581.

October 25: 23rd Annual Herbal Harvest and Original Arts and Crafts Festival at St. Paschal Parish Over 50 vendors selling fall herbs and plants, homemade country crafts, paintings, holiday items and packaged sweets and food. Delicious food will be served including: St. Paschal herbal chicken salad, soup, grilled sausage, baked goods and homemade bread. There will be live music and admission is free. The festival will be from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For more information, visit stpaschalchurch.org, or call the church office at 318-323-1631.

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November 11: The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans presents David Briggs World renowned organist David Briggs will play a free concert at the Cathedral of St. John Berchman, located at 939 Jordan St. in Shreveport, on Tuesday, November 11 at 6:30 p.m. The event is open to the public. For more information, contact the Cathedral office at 318-221-5296.

March 11, 2015: Bishop Duca's Pro-Life Banquet The speaker for this year’s banquet will be Fr. Jonathan Morris, parochial vicar of the historic Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral in New York City and news coordinator for the Fox News Channel, Fox Business Channel, and the Wall Street Journal. Father Morris offers coverage of the ethical, social and religious news stories of the day. He holds separate degrees in classical humanities, philosophy and theology, and a licentiate degree in moral theology (ethics) from Regina Apostolorum Pontifical University in Rome. Fr. Morris is the author of The Promise: God’s Purpose and Plan for When Life Hurts, and God Wants You Happy: From Self-Help to God’s Help.

The pro-life banquet committee also seeks volunteers to help in any way with this important event. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Banquet Chair, Bernadette Boyd by email at prolifedioshreveport@dioshpt.org.

For more information see the diocesan web site www.dioshpt.org and click on Pro-Life Ministry.

continued from page 11

strongly that this “personal and intimate responsibility” should belong to a husband and wife and no one else.

One need only look at the data from the past 46 years to know the grave concerns expressed by Pope Paul VI have been realized in part. Marital infidelity and the divorce rate have risen exponentially.

The number of those engaging in sexual activity outside of marriage has also gone up. Pornography, which has at its center the objectification of women, has become a multimillion dollar industry. Finally, the last concern regarding governments attempting to impose artificial methods on its citizens has become all too real in the last two decades.

Pope Paul VI knew that the teaching of the Church would not be easily accepted. He reminded us that like her Founder, Jesus Christ, she was to be a “sign of contradiction.” Following Christ has never been easy, but He gives us the grace necessary to do so if only we will live in accord with His will as expressed in our hearts, from the Sacred Scripture and through His distinctive voice in the world, Holy Mother Church. I urge all of you to take the time to read this document. It can be found at http://www.vatican.va/holy_ father/paul_vi/encyclicals/documents/hf_pvi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae_en.html

calendar SUNDAY

MONDAY TUESDAY

october 2014

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

28 29 30 1 2 Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels

Poor Man's Supper, Jesus the Good Shepherd School Gym, 6pm

St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus, virgin & doctor of the church

The Holy Guardian Angels

SATURDAY

3 4 St. Francis of Assisi

St. Jerome, priest & doctor of the Church

Feast Day of St. Francis / OCT 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Respect Life Sunday

Synod of Bishops on the Family Begins at the Vatican (through Oct. 19)

St. Bruno, priest; Blessed Marie Rose Durocher, virgin

Our Lady of the Rosary

Protecting God's Children Class, Catholic Center, 6pm

St. Denis, bishop, & companions, martyrs; St. John Leonardi, priest

Deadline for the November Catholic Connection

St. John XXIII, pope

Respect Life Sunday / Oct 5

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Vocation Awareness Sunday

Columbus Day

St. Callistus I, pope & martyr

St. Teresa of Jesus, virgin & doctor of the Church

St. Hedwig, religious; St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, virgin

Taste of Shreveport Bossier, Bossier Civic Center

St. Ignatius of Antioch, bishop & martyr

Run with the Nuns, Downtown Shreveport, 9:30am

2nd Collection: World Mission Sunday St. Luke, evangelist

Run with the Nuns / Oct 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 2nd Collection: World Mission Sunday World Mission Sunday

Diocese of Shreveport Priests Convocation, Many (thru Oct. 23)

St. John Paul II, pope

St. John of Capistrano, priest

St. Anthony Mary Claret, bishop

Growing Up Catholic, Catholic Center, 9am

St. Paul of the Cross, priest

World Mission Sunday/ OCT 19

26 27 28 29 30 31 1 Growing Up Catholic, Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish, 1pm

Sts. Simon and Jude, apostles

Halloween

All Saints Day

All Saints Day / NOV 1 October 2014 23

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

â&#x20AC;˘

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Photo of the month The Junior Class of St. Frederick Catholic High School attended the Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit, historically known as the Red Mass, at St. Matthew Parish on Friday, September 5.

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