Catholic Connection November 2010

VOL. 20, NO.4

War and Faith: Honoring the Lives of

Veterans

NOVEMBER 2010

From the Chancellor & Office of Worship

by Christine Rivers, Chancellor & Dianne Rachal, Office of Worship Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Regular Contributors Bishop Michael Duca Kim Long Missy McKenzie Lucy Medvec Fr. Rothell Price

Rosalba Quiroz Dianne Rachal Jessica Rinaudo Christine Rivers John Mark Willcox

Featured Contributors Brian Burdges Jane Snyder Jean Dresley Roxie Tabor Kelly Powell Mike Van Vranken Fr. David Richter Cindy Wooden Sr. Martinette Rivers Editorial Board Dianne Rachal Cathy Cobb Christine Rivers Rev. Charles Glorioso Christie Weeks Kim Long John Mark Willcox Kelly Powell The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Service Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport. Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

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

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

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

• Nov. 7 (Sunday) Daylight Saving Time Ends • Nov. 25-26 (Thursday and Friday) Catholic Center is closed for Thanksgiving holiday.

• Christmas Day, December 25 is a Saturday this year. Christmas Day is always a holy day of obligation. Masses celebrated after 4 pm on this day are still Masses of Christmas, not vigils for Sunday, December 26—the feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph.

As a practical matter, the USCCB Secretariat of the BCDW observes that pastors and other priests should not feel obliged to schedule a Mass with the people on Christmas evening as attendance would likely be low and it would be difficult to schedule sufficient liturgical ministers (August-September 2010 Newsletter).

• The feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, January 1 also falls on a Saturday this year. This feast day is a holy day of obligation, but since it is a Saturday the obligation to attend Mass is abrogated. Masses celebrated after 4 pm on this day are vigil Masses for the Epiphany of the Lord on Sunday, January 2.

• Ritual Masses are prohibited on Christmas Day and the feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Blessing of the Graves

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

T

he Church seeks to help the faithful departed by earnest prayer to God, and in particular, by remembrance of them on All Souls Day and throughout the month of November. In the communion of the saints, the communion of Christ’s members with one another, the Church obtains spiritual help for those who have preceded us in faith.

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

Our priests and deacons will offer prayers at our local cemeteries on the weekend closest to All Souls Day, our annual commemoration of the faithful departed on the following dates:

• Rose-Neath Cemetery, Bossier City, 1:30 p.m. – Deacon Freeman Ligon

Sunday, October 31, 2010 • Saint Joseph Cemetery, Shreveport, 2:00 p.m. – Rev. Msgr. Earl V. Provenza, vf

Saturday, October 30, 2010 • Hill Crest Cemetery, Haughton, 10:00 a.m. - Deacon Larry Mills

• Mulhearn Memorial Park Cemetery, Monroe, 4:00 pm. - Fr. Sebastian Kallarackal, cmi

• Forest Park Cemetery East, Shreveport, 11:00 a.m. – Deacon John Basco

Please contact Father Rothell Price at 318-868-4441, ext. 259 if you have any questions.

• Centuries Memorial Cemetery, Shreveport, 2:45 p.m. – Rev. Francis Kamau, fmh • Forest Park Cemetery West, Shreveport, 3:30 p.m. – Rev. Henry Kiggundu, fmh Tuesday, November 2, 2010 • St. Paschal Cemetary, West Monroe, 8:30 a.m. - Fr. Frank Coens, ofm Sunday, November 7, 2010 • St. Joseph Cemetery, Bastrop, 11:30 a.m. - Fr. Richard Norsworthy • Riverview Cemetery, Monroe, 1:00 p.m. - Fr. Joseph Puthuppally, vf • St. Matthew Cemetery, Monroe, 2:30 p.m. - Fr. Joseph Puthuppally, vf

November 2010

Contents

10

12

From the Chancellor by Christine Rivers..................................... 2 Blessing of the Graves by Fr. Rothell Price................................. 2 Bishop Michael Duca’s November 2010 Schedule..................... 3

Bishop’s Reflection by Most Reverend Michael G. Duca............ 4-5 Decorum at Mass: Courtesy by Dianne Rachal........................... 6 Bishop Friend & Sr. Ukeritis Received CARA Awards................. 6 Catholic Campaign for Human Development

by Fr. Rothell Price............................................................... 7 Catholic Charities Starts to Grow by Jean Dresley..................... 7 Priesthood in the Diocese of Shreveport.................................... 8 Joe Balthazaar Serves 50 Years at Holy Trinity

by Jessica Rinaudo..............................................................9 Inspired by His Confidence by Mike Van Vranken.......................9 Giving Thanks by Sr. Martinette Rivers.......................................10

15

16

Locals Reach Out Through Operation Support Our Troops

by Kelly Powell........................................................................15 Saints for Our Troops by Kim Long.................................................16 Vianney Drama Coming to Shreveport Diocese

by Janice Gonzalez...................................................................16 Diocese Hosts First Pro-Life Banquet by Roxie Tabor . .................17 Parishes Participate in Hope House

by Jane Snyder and Jessica Rinaudo.....................................17 Hispanic Corner by Rosalba Quiroz............................................ 18 Synod Opens with Call for Religious Freedom by Cindy Wooden....19 As Miners Rescued, Chileans Unite in Prayer by CNS................. 19 Around the Diocese............................................................. ....20-21 Friends of Poor Walk Raised Funds for SVdP by Brian Burdges......21 Mission Market Place by Jane Snyder.........................................22

School News................................................................................11

Upcoming Events ........................................................................22

War and Faith: Honoring the Lives of Veterans

by John Mark Willcox............................................................12

Blessing of the Pets ....................................................................... 24

November 2010 Calendar............................................................23

Bishop Michael Duca’s November Schedule NOV. 9 Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops (LCCB); Baton Rouge; 10:00 a.m.

NOV. 14-19 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) General Meeting; Baltimore, Maryland

NOV. 1 Catholic Charities Luncheon; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 12:00 p.m.

NOV. 2 Mass of Remembrance; St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 7:00 p.m.

NOV. 3 Presbyteral Council Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 1:00 p.m.

NOV. 7 Concluding Celebration Mass 90th Anniversary of Foundation of Sacred Heart Church; Sacred Heart Church, Rayville; 9:00 a.m.

NOV. 22 Catholic Charities Luncheon; Catholic Center; 12:00 p.m.

NOV. 22 Knights of Columbus Memorial Mass and Dinner; Bossier Council #4873, Knights of Columbus Hall, Bossier City; 6:30 p.m.

NOV. 23 Annual Clergy/Business Meeting; Catholic Center; 9:00 a.m.

NOV. 30 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program, St. Matthew Church, Monroe; 9:30 a.m.

On the Cover: A display of U.S. Flags and a cross in honor of the many wounded warriors who have served God and their country. | Dreamstime.com

Notice an Envelope?

Notice an envelope in this month’s Catholic Connection?

The new Catholic Charities of Shreveport is asking for your support.

For more information, see page 7.

La Reflexión del Obispo por Bishop Michael G. Duca

C

onozco Este mes han pasado varias cosas por mi mente, y he decidido compartir algunas importantes que aún no se han formado por sí solas como artículo.

Viendo al año pasado en busca de inspiración, vi que el pasado noviembre comenzó el programa de formación Buenos Lideres, Buenos Pastores para los sacerdotes de la diócesis. Quiero una vez más recalcar mi mas profundo Buenos Lideres, Buenos Pastores agradecimiento a los feligreses de nuestra diócesis que generosamente de Dar Gracias y un día que nos llama Si no puede detenerse a hacerlo o donaron su tesoro, oraciones y palabras a ser agradecidos por nuestros muchos todavía no ha encontrado la manera de aliento a sus pastores en apoyo a regalos. Haga la intensión de Dar Gracias de cómo hacerlo, entonces haga el este programa. Me he dado cuenta que este día en concreto. ¿Porqué no asistir a tiempo al principio de su cena de Día el tiempo que hemos compartido nos una Misa en la mañana con su familia y de Gracias para decir una oración de ha fortalecido en nuestra fraternidad sacerdotal y nos ha dado la oportunidad Dar Gracias por las muchas bendiciones gracias, pedir a sus invitados y familia en su vida? AHORA, posiblemente que cada uno diga una oración corta de aprender habilidades concretas y mientras lee esta sugerencia ya esta por lo que estén agradecidos. Tenemos maneras de ayudarnos mas eficiente y diciéndose a sí mismo que no hay tiempo tantas bendiciones, así que no deje que amorosamente para dirigir y pastorear para de eso pues estará muy ocupado. el día se vaya sin dar gracias a Dios que a nuestra gente. Estoy seguro de que aun después que este programa termine DETENGASE. Pregúntese que va a hacer es la fuente de todas las bendiciones. que es tan importante que no puede También, al dar gracias incluya una en mayo, continuaremos reuniéndonos dejar para después, DETENGASE y oración por los hombres y mujeres que regularmente para nuestra formación tómese el tiempo de enfocar su atención sirven nuestro país en los servicios continua como sacerdotes. militares. Ellos estarán lejos de sus Noviembre es el mes de la celebración en dar gracias a Dios. hogares el Día de Gracias protegiendo nuestra vida y libertad y merecen nuestro apoyo y oración. En esta edición de la Catholic Connection podrán leer algunas maneras concretas de cómo agradecer a estos buenos y valientes hombres y mujeres.

Por último, quiero que pongan atención a una página de internet que ha desarrollado la Conferencia Episcopal de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos acerca de Matrimonio y Vida Familiar.

La dirección es www.portumatrimonio. org y es un recurso excelente para parejas casadas y para aquellas pensando en casarse. En una época cuando la familia y el matrimonio son atacados y estresantes, es bueno tener un lugar donde las cosas positivas del matrimonio se puedan celebrar. Esta página le dará información de ayuda e inspiración a todas las parejas casadas. www.portumatrimonio.org

4 5 Catholic Connection November 2010

Bishop’s Reflection by Bishop Michael G. Duca

T

his month there have been many things that have crossed my mind, and I have decided to share a few random, but important, thoughts that have not formed themselves into a full article.

I looked back one year ago for inspiration and I saw that last November marked the beginning of the Good Leaders, Good Shepherds ongoing formation program for the priests of the diocese. I want to once again restate my deepest thanks to the parishioners of our diocese who so generously donated with treasure, prayers and words of encouragement to your pastors in support of this program. I have found our time together has strengthened our priestly fraternity and provided an occasion to learn concrete skills and insights to help us more effectively and lovingly

November marks one year since priests working in the Diocese of Shreveport began the Good Leaders, Good Shepherds program, which has fostered education and fellowship among priests and Bishop Duca.

lead and shepherd our people. I am sure that even after this program ends in May, we will continue to gather regularly for our ongoing formation as priests.

November is the month of the Thanksgiving holiday and a day that reminds us to be thankful for our many gifts. Take time on this day to give thanks in an intentional way. Why not attend Mass in the morning with your family to thank God for the blessings of your life? NOW, possibly even as you read this suggestion you are already saying to yourself that there is no time for this because you will be too busy.

USCCB sponsored ForYourMarriage.org is an excellent resource for married couples and those considering marriage.

STOP. Ask yourself what are you doing that is so important that you can’t try to reschedule, to stop DOING and take time to focus our attention on giving thanks to God. If you can’t get away or can’t figure out how, then make time at the beginning of your Thanksgiving meal to say a prayer of thanks, to invite your guests and family to each give a short prayer for why they are thankful. We have so many blessings, so don’t let the day go by without giving thanks to God who is the source of all blessings.

Also, as you are giving thanks add in a prayer for the men and women who serve our country in the military services. They will be far from their home on Thanksgiving protecting our life and liberty and are worthy of our prayers and support. In this edition of the Catholic Connection you can read about how you can show your thanks in concrete ways to these good and brave men and women.

Lastly, I want to call your attention to a website developed by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on Marriage and Family Life. It is called ForYourMarriage.org and is an excellent resource for married couples and for those considering marriage. At a time when marriage and family life is so attacked and stressed, it is good to have a place where the positives of marriage can be celebrated. This site will give support, helpful information and inspiration to all married couples.

5 4

Decorum at Mass: Courtesy

Bishop Friend and Sister Ukeritis Received 2010 CARA Awards

by Dianne Rachal, Office of Worship

ashington, and faith formation, D.C.— The Bishop Friend established Center the Institute of Catholic for Applied Studies, later named the Research in the Greco Institute, in 1982.

Apostolate (CARA) The Institute provides at Georgetown college-level courses in University honored theology, Scripture, liturgy, two noted leaders of morality, and spirituality Catholic research on to men and women in the October 20 at CARA’s Diocese of Shreveport, annual Mass, dinner, which has no Catholic and awards ceremony colleges or universities. at Georgetown Sister Ukeritis received University. The the Rev. Louis J. Luzbetak, Bishop Emeritus of Shreveport, William awardees were SVD, Award for Exemplary B. Friend received the Cardinal Cushing Most Rev. William Church Research. The Medal for the Advancement of Church B. Friend, Bishop award, named for CARA’s Research.

Emeritus of first executive director, is Shreveport, and Sister Miriam D. Ukeritis, given annually to a researcher who has csj, Chief Executive Officer of the distinguished himself or herself in the Southdown Institute. conduct of Church research.

Bishop Friend received the Cardinal Sister Ukeritis leads the Southdown Cushing Medal for the Advancement of Institute, a residential treatment center Church Research. The medal is named in for clergy and religious near Toronto, honor of Richard Cardinal Cushing, one Canada. She previously served as the of the principal founders of CARA, and Director of Research at Southdown is awarded annually to a person or an from 2003 to 2008 and as a consultant organization that has advanced Church to the Carter Centre, an educational research through their active support of conference center on the grounds of the research and their understanding of its Southdown Institute, since it was founded uses. in 2001. As Director of Research, Sister Bishop Friend became the first Bishop Miriam was responsible for coordinating of Shreveport in 1986 when the diocese efforts to translate the extensive clinical was created from territory carved from experience of the Southdown Institute the Diocese of Alexandria-Shreveport. into knowledge informing both clinical He served as Chair of CARA’s Board of practice and Church life.

Directors from 1997 to 2003. In 2004, the Sister Miriam has worked extensively Board unanimously conferred upon him with religious and clergy in both the title of Board Member Emeritus. therapeutic and educational settings A native of Miami, Bishop Friend for more than three decades. Since attended Mount St. Mary’s Seminary 2000 she has also served as principal in in Emmitsburg, MD, and was ordained Carondelet Consultants, a group that a priest of the Diocese of Mobileoffers consultation services for religious Birmingham in 1959. After ordination, communities. he completed studies in education and “We are delighted to honor Bishop psychology at The Catholic University William Friend and Sister Miriam of America and in management at the Ukeritis at CARA’s annual celebration of American Management Institute in New Church research this year. Both of them York. During his active ministry as a have helped to increase the Church’s priest and bishop, Bishop Friend served self understanding and have advanced in many different roles in parish ministry, Catholic scholarly research. By means of education, research, and administration, these awards we not only recognize their including Director of the Office for achievements but we also thank them for Educational Research at the University of their many years of service to the Church,” Notre Dame. said Father Stephen Fichter, interim A strong proponent of adult education executive director at CARA.

T

hose of us who work in the church, especially those involved in liturgy, occasionally get frustrated by the lack of liturgical courtesy we see at Mass. Most notable are people arriving late, leaving early, dressed inappropriately, leaving pews a mess and chewing gum, even in the communion procession.

We have a responsibility to one another as members of the Body of Christ. We witness through our participation. We show general courtesy by not disturbing others at their worship when we: • Arrive and be seated before the Entrance Procession begins.

• On the rare occasion when one is late for a legitimate reason, wait until an appropriate time to be seated: just before or after the first reading, but never during a prayer or proclamation.

• Sit near the front and in the middle of the pew, leaving the back and outer seats of the pew open for latecomers.

• Do not leave Mass before it is over—the final blessing empowers us and the dismissal commissions us to carry the gospel message into the world.

• Dress respectfully for God and our brothers and sisters who are the Body of Christ—do not let your dress be a distraction.

• Do not chew gum—this is never acceptable at Mass.

• Turn off all electronic devices—it is rude when these go off during a speech, concert, or classroom; it is much more discourteous when they go off during Mass.

We can choose to strengthen our worshipping community by practicing courtesy at the celebration of the Mass.

6 7 Catholic Connection November 2010

W

Catholic Campaign for Human Development

by Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General, jcl, vg Announcement Dates: November 20 & 21

Catholic Charities Starts to Grow

by Jean Dresley, Director of Catholic Charities of Shreveport

C I

am writing to encourage your wholehearted participation in our Second Collection for November. This collection assists in furthering the work of the bishops of the United States to end and lift people out of poverty.

This, and other second collections, always reminds me of the Gospel account of the five loaves and two fishes. The apostles were overwhelmed in the face of so much need and so little resources.

We are able to accomplish so much with so little when we place our faith in God. We have come to know the Father will bless our every good endeavor, especially those that seemed doomed for failure and inadequate to the need in front of us, “we conquer overwhelming through Him who loves us,” says Saint Paul. Our seemingly inadequate and tiny insufficiencies are transformed into mind boggling surplus under the guiding hand of God. Please give, with a cheerful heart, what the Spirit moves you to give, knowing that it will be blessed by and useful to the Lord in his work of caring for His children in body and spirit.

On the weekend of November 20 and 21 we will have our Collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD). This collection is the primary source of funding for the CCHD’s anti-poverty grants and education programs. The collection proceeds have helped secure funding for low income day care centers, legal advocacy to enforce fair and just wages,

programs that emphasize education, and affordable housing for low income neighborhoods. For 40 years, CCHD has provided funding to groups that make lasting change, fight poverty, and defend the dignity of the poor in the U.S. Charity begins at home. That is exactly what this collection and campaign are about, us attending to the needs of our people in the United States.

This collection and campaign are us responding to Lazarus in front of our door. This is us having faith the size of a mustard seed so we can courageously do what we were obligated to do. Doing the work of the Lord does not require great wealth or faith. God is quite capable of doing a heck of a lot with little. Give your heart, prayers and generosity to this second collection, the Campaign for Human Development. God has developed us so we, in turn, can develop others. Development, not handouts, is what the Campaign for Human Development is all about.

How well did the diocese do?

2nd Collections for August: • Diocese of Shreveport Hispanic Ministry $14,470.52 • Aid to the Church in Latin America $875.21 • Aid to the Church in Central and Eastern Europe $ 435.23 • Catholic University & National Institute for Hispanic Ministry $ 257.00

atholic Charities is a new social service agency seeking to meet the needs of the least of our brothers and sisters in our diocese. The work of Catholic Charities is a response to Christ’s message to love and care for the most vulnerable among us. As a new social service agency we are dependent on the generosity of many to support the work we do.

Our master plan has identified four areas of service set to start in the next few months: Emergency Assistance (meet the basic needs of those in crisis), Disaster Response (provide assistance to victims of natural disasters), Parish Social Ministry (train and assist parishes’ outreach to the poor) and Immigration Assistance (provide legal services and advocacy to low income immigrants). These programs will form the foundation from which Catholic Charities hopes to grow. To make sure we are serving the entire diocese, we hope to open an office in Monroe to serve the needs of those in the eastern part of our diocese and, eventually, we hope to have four offices located throughout the diocese with your support.

Starting a social service agency is an expensive venture but the needs of the people in northern Louisiana are great. The latest census report states that one in seven Americans is living in poverty. The current economic conditions have forced many who have never sought help before to seek assistance. At Catholic Charities we want to manifest Christ’s great love and compassion for the poor and vulnerable in our midst.

In this issue of the Catholic Connection, you may have noticed an envelope asking for your financial support of Catholic Charities.

I hope we can count on your prayers and support as we endeavor to reach out to those most in need in our diocese.

7 6

One of the projects taken on by Vianney Vocations in our partnership with them is a demographic study to discover the priest and seminarian trends since the beginning of the Diocese of Shreveport in 1986. Part of the answer to the vocations shortage in our diocese is understanding what we may reasonably expect in the future if current trends continue. In order to reverse the negative trends, we must know how many seminarians we ought to recruit and bring to ordination.

8 9 Catholic Connection November 2010

Joe Balthazar Serves 50 Years at Holy Trinity Church

Making a Difference

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor

J

oe Balthazar has become a fixture at Holy Trinity Church in downtown Shreveport.

Joe began working at Holy Trinity 50 years ago as a groundskeeper, sharing his time between the Holy Trinity Church grounds and St. Joseph Cemetery, which was under Holy Trinity’s jurisdiction at the time.

Joe looked back on his years of service with a smile, sharing story after story of his experiences there. Joe laughed as he spoke of former pastor Fr. O’Hanlon. “Father O’Hanlon was always out there cutting hedges with me,” said Joe. “He’d get out in the cemetery and ride the mower. On All Souls Day we’d clean up the cemetery and mow the lawn.”

Holy Trinity is located in downtown Shreveport, which created some unique problems for Joe over the years. Often people would wander into the church, church grounds or cemetery looking for a place to sleep. Joe told stories of finding people sleeping under pews and Fr. O’Hanlon throwing a man’s shoes out of the cemetery!

Joe also spoke of the many days the secretary at Holy Trinity spent handing out sandwiches to those in need (including those who would change their appearance and come back for seconds).

At a special lunch held in Joe’s honor, Msgr.

Earl Provenza said Joe had never missed a day of work and Holy Trinity would not be the same without him. He also noted Joe’s hard work in the church gardens, which earned him Downtown Shreveport’s “Garden of the Month” prize.

During his special lunch, Msgr. Provenza and Bishop Duca presented Joe with a gold solar watch from Holy Trinity.

When asked if he had any plans of retiring any time soon, Joe laughed and said, “No way!”

Inspired By His Confidence

by Mike Van Vranken, Greco Institute Instructor

I

’ve always loved the story in John’s gospel of the wedding feast where we believe that Jesus performed his first public miracle. There are several lessons we can learn from that story, but it is the words of Mary that sometimes fascinate me the most.

Picture this: Mary is at a wedding where the guest list also includes Jesus and his disciples. At some point during the celebration, (I’m paraphrasing here) this Jewish mother says to her preacher son, “they have no wine.” Jesus’ response: “So what?”

Now, this is the part that I really love. Rather than continuing this dead-end conversation with Jesus, Mary turns to the servants and says: “Do whatever he tells you.”

Now, how is that for faith? She has made her point with Jesus and has enough confidence in her relationship with her son that she directs the servants to do whatever he says; knowing that he is going to take care of the need she has described to him. In essence, it was a simple four word prayer “they have no wine.” That is all she had to say. And while he seemed to protest, she knew the prayer was already answered. I find two great learnings here: 1. Mary is showing us what true faith in Jesus really is.

She asked and then behaved knowing the prayer was already answered, even though there were no visible signs of any miracle.

2. Jesus honored her wish even though he stated that his “ . . .hour had not yet come.”

His love for her was so great that he miraculously resolved her issue.

All of this leads me to ponder that Catholic prayer: the Memorare.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided.

Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.

Think how powerful it must be to ask this same mother of Jesus to intercede with him on our behalf.

He has already set the precedent. At the wedding feast, she asked him for a favor on behalf of her friends - the newly married couple. If he would be so faithful to answer a petition to replenish the wine at a party 2,000 years ago, think how fast he’ll respond to your pressing needs in 2010.

Do you have any prayer requests today? Pray the Memorare and let that same Jewish mother go to work on your behalf.

9 8

Giving Thanks

by Sr. Martinette Rivers, ols

W

hen you know in your heart that gratitude has gained a foothold in your life and being grateful has truly grasped you by the hand, beware!

Being grateful can break all boundaries between people. The Pilgrims and their Native American neighbors didn’t realize what would grow from their first modest dinner together. It all emerged from their sense of profound gratitude for God. They had a bountiful harvest that year and were prepared for the severe winter ahead of them. God’s love had not changed for them and they were grateful, but what about our gratitude?

The Proclamation of George Washington in 1789 recognized that there is more to Thanksgiving than eating turkey. It recognized people of different cultures had bonded, had worked together, grown together, in spite of their differences. After learning from each other and harvesting their crops together, they celebrated with a meal like Jesus did with his friends so many times.

The first Thanksgiving was a celebration of life and abundance, not nationality or riches, but of the gift of each other and the work different people had accomplished together. They were not taking life and its gifts from God for granted. They truly gave praise to God and recognized the magnitude of their great souls.

Awaken your spirit and feed it with gratitude as you harvest what you have grown this year in the respect you’ve had for all the different people you met and the work they did for you this past year.

Look around your city and be grateful.

I’ll be grateful from Italy and celebrate in my heart as Thanksgiving is not celebrated here, but I too have so much to be grateful for! By counting our blessings we become more aware of them. Perhaps we can make the world a better place by becoming a people who express gratitude and affirmation to each other. How peaceful it would be if we could walk next to one another, honoring differences and respecting diversity. “Greatness is making others feel great.” - G.K. Chesterton.

Appreciate everything good in your life, heighten your gratitude by asking someone what they most appreciate in their lives. Tell them “thank you,” “I appreciate you.” When we say thank you

10 11 Catholic Connection November 2010

we should be reminded how much we need others. Be grateful for who you have become this year. If we have lived authentically, we have become more worthy of trust, we are more genuine and true to ourselves and with others. “I have one life and one chance to make it count for something... I’m free to choose what that something is... My faith demands that I do what I can, for as long as I can,with whatever I have... to try to make a difference.” - Jimmy Carter The U.S. Constitution doesn’t guarantee gratitude only the pursuit of it. Benjamin Franklin said “You have to catch up with it yourself.” Can we ever catch up with gratitude? Emerson said it even better, “Write it on your heart, that everyday is the best day in the year...to be grateful”.

When George Washington signed his proclamation in 1789, he got down on his knees uder a tree to give thanks and praise to God. If we could only dare to live with thanks and praise, forget the yesterdays and live the tomorrows, we could bring about a change in our country, because it is each of us who makes a difference.

This season is a great time to allow gratitude to emerge as an attitude. We can choose to create a better life for ourselves and others. Beggars can’t be choosers, but they can choose to be grateful.

Gratefulness creates solidarity with the poor all over the world. What makes each of us truly human is gratefulness. Let’s focus this year on life’s blessings instead of its shortcomings. To be grateful is a

universal experience.

Thankfulness is a living and spoken word of intimacy and praise to God, to our families, communities and friends.

As you prepare your table for Thanksgiving dinner, think of the abundance of people George Washington may have thanked on his first Thanksgiving day, before or after dinner and then think about the abundance of people who have been a blessing for you and remember genuine appreciation is a wonderful gesture, however it is done.

We are not self-made. There are so many people out there who helped our souls blossom. Being appreciated increases our positive energy and makes our souls blossom all the more.

“It is right to celebrate.” - St. Luke.

There is always time to do what is important, and perhaps this is our time to be more grateful than ever, wherever we are, whatever we are doing, what we have or don’t have; live and be grateful for all the Thanksgivings we’ve had and for all those we may celebrate in the future. As George Gershwin would say when he sat at the piano, “My time is today.”

Make this Thanksgiving your best one.

Be happy, be grateful, share with those who are not as richly blessed. When you finish counting your blessings, you’ll have a better night’s sleep. There is a wonderful Yiddish proverb: “If you cannot be grateful for what you have received, then be thankful for what you have been spared.”

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone from Italy!

School News 1

3

2

4 1. Jesus the Good Shepherd School Celebrated Day of the Arts

O

ur first ever Day of the Arts was held on September 27.

This month we went to France! The children received their passports that morning and didn’t need any luggage to go on the adventure. Everyone came to school dressed in red, white and blue with added berets. They listened to French music and ate French food, such as croissants, quiche, brie and baguettes. We learned about the Eiffel Tower and Joan of Arc. There were opportunities for them to look at artist Renoir’s work and create their own masterpieces. Dr. James Boldin was our special guest from the Monroe Symphony.

He came to play the French horn, this month’s instrument.

Poems from Shakespeare and Robert Frost, our authors of the month, were read aloud and discussed by the children.

The children drew a picture of the Robert Frost selection. It was a Tres Chic Day!

2. Our Lady of Fatima Students Took a Fall Themed Field Trip

O

ur Lady of Fatima Pre-K 4 classes recently took a field trip to Curry Farms Pumpkin Patch in Start, LA. The students learned how pumpkins grow, took a hayride, played in the corn maze and picked their own pumpkins. Everyone had a wonderful time!

3. St. Joseph School Remembers 9/11

S

tudents and family members from St. Joseph School paid tribute to the fallen heroes of September 11, 2001 with its annual Flag Ceremony on Friday, September 10.

Members from the Barksdale Air Force Base Color Guard participated in the ceremony with Lt. Colonel Susanna Harris, a St. Joseph School parent and Deputy Director of Logistics for 8th Air Force, serving as the guest speaker. At the end of the ceremony, students released red, white and blue balloons attached with prayers into the air. Members from Shreveport Fire Station #11 were also in attendance to give fire engine tours to students from the Kindergarten Village.

4. Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy Students Have Had a Busy Fall!

T

he fall months have had Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy students fabulously busy! We’ve gone to the Dixie Maze, Holiday Lanes, and the Wallette Library. We’ve also been on nature walks, animal sightings and we’ve even seen a real fire truck. Whew! In addition to all of that fun we’ve also learned about our state, community helpers and so much more. We’re going to keep up our hard work and enjoy our much needed Thanksgiving break.

Happy Thanksgiving!

11 10

War and Faith: Honoring the Lives of

Veterans

by John Mark Willcox

Gary Patton, an Army soldier.

hose of us who remain caught up in the everyday pursuit Although he was raised in a religious environment that of life’s activities can at times forget that there are those included faithful Sunday worship, Daniel’s relationship to God among our fellow Americans who are many miles from changed during his time in Iraq. “I just kind of lost track of my their homes and loved ones, protecting American interests and religion while oversees, not necessarily because of what I was freedoms that we sometimes take for granted. exposed to, but more because my mind was filled with other This day and age finds the members of our armed forces things. I would wake up each day and eat breakfast, go to the in faraway places, combating fear, fatigue, separation and gym, have lunch with a shave and shower before I heaped on my hardships for our sake as they take on a largely unseen foe or gear and went back out on patrol.” With death and destruction work to secure our interests in the air, beneath the seas and always in close proximity, the potential loss of those he fought on terra firma. How one approaches their duty during their with and cared for was a very real possibility. “It was hard enlistment, how they prayed to deal with, but not impossible,” and worshipped and what their comments Daniel. “I just tried to put memories are can make one it out of my thoughts so that I could “The only Chaplain who appreciate November 11, Veterans get up the next day and do it all over had the guts to come out Day, in a very special way. again but it does stay in the back of Daniel Barbour is an Army your head for sure.” and minister to us was a Sergeant who, at tender age of 21, Ironically, it was a supposed began killing enemy soldiers in “peaceful” political rally in Sadr City Catholic priest and his Sadr City, a suburb of Baghdad, in June of 2008 that ended Daniels courage and willingness to Iraq. He joined the Army at age first tour of duty. Militants set off a 18 to “get out of Bullard, Texas” car bomb at the event, storming the tend to our spiritual needs and was stationed in Germany scene with gunfire. Daniel took an before he shipped out to the AK-47 round to his shoulder which was very inspiring to me...”

Middle East as part of the 1st collapsed his lung and very nearly Armored Division. took his life. “It was like the greatest Just hours into his first force I’ve ever felt just slam me to patrol duty he saw combat and just days later he saw a fellow the ground. I woke up in the Medical Evacuation chopper soldier in his platoon lose his life. Each separate patrol lasted with a guy ramming a tube in my chest to re-inflate my lung. approximately 10 hours, with about 10-15 people and could That was pretty painful and I lost consciousness again until I involve multiple encounters with enemy combatants hidden woke up in the hospital.” Thankfully, Daniel’s medical care and in the myriad of cramped neighborhoods that fan out in the rehabilitation went well and he returned home. Currently, he Baghdad suburbs. A mere two months later Daniel had his is cleared for a second tour of duty in Iraq which will begin in first confirmed kill, followed by nearly 10 others during a very November of this year with arguably the Army’s most famous rough 12 months of duty in one of the world’s most dangerous Division, the Big Red One. environments.

Jesus the Good Shepherd parishioner and Monroe native Dr.

12 13 Catholic Connection November 2010

Left: 21-year-old Army Sergeant Daniel Barbour in Sadr City, Iraq. Right: Gary Patton (center) with two buddies at Tan Canh during the battle of Dak Seang in Vietnam.

Ab Alias practiced pathology for the Army during America’s involvement in Indo-China. He was drafted for duty and stationed in Landstuhl, Germany from 1969 to 1972. “We were the tertiary hospital for most of the wounded coming from Vietnam so we were very busy during my time in Germany,” states Dr. Alias. “My wife and young children were stationed with me and while my work could be difficult and disturbing, my entire family truly benefitted from our time in Landstuhl because Americans were few and we had to learn and adapt to the German culture and language.”

Mass was held in the base chapel but the Alias’s attended many local churches as well. “By the time we had been there a while, our German was good enough to where we could enjoy Mass and follow along with no problem. Being able to attend Mass and stay close to the sacraments was just a real spiritual boost.”

Looking back on the experience, Dr. Alias has positive memories, “Oh, those were some of the best days of our life because it was such a rounding experience, both for me and my practice of medicine and for my wife and kids as well.”

The Vietnam experience for Gary Patton, Sr. was much different, as he served in the Army’s field artillery unit from June of 1969 to June of 1970. Part of the Air Mobile “Blue Berets,” he spent much of his tour manning an 8” 175 battery which were the largest guns American forces used at the time.

“Our job was to pound

the Ho Chi Minh trail,” relates Gary. “We were in the central highlands and we took plenty of shells from the Viet Cong because they were taking a lot of fire from us and wanted very badly to knock out our unit.”

Gary joined the Army out of obligation and duty commenting, “A member of my family has fought in just about every war America has had and I was eighteen years old and seeking adventure. Boy, I found more adventure than I ever bargained for…and then some.”

Raised Methodist before converting to Catholicism following the war, Gary found few opportunities for organized worship while in Vietnam. “Even though we had no real church most of the time, you get religious real quick out there,” relates Gary.

“At the end of my tour I was stationed at a fire base just one kilometer from the Cambodian border and it was isolated and very dangerous. The only Chaplain who had the guts to come out and minister to us was a Catholic priest and his courage and willingness to tend to our spiritual needs was very inspiring to me and caused me to begin looking at the Catholic Church with a new perspective.”

Thankfully, Gary shipped out of that location just three days prior to it being overrun

by North Vietnamese Regulars with very heavy US casualties. “I suppose the good Lord had another plan for me,” remembers Gary.

After arriving at Dr. Ab Alias with his Barksdale Air Force family in Germany during his time in the Army.

Base in the 1980’s Mark Medvec and his 13 12

Above: Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, head of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services, prepares to wash the feet of military and civilian personnel at Camp Victory just outside of Baghdad, Iraq, during the April 9 Holy Thursday liturgy at the base chapel . (CNS photo/ Sgt. Neil W. McCabe, The Pilot). Right: Mark Medvec, a member of the Air Force, at church with his son.

wife Lucy settled in Shreveport and joined St. Joseph Church in sacraments were very Broadmoor. Mark began piloting B-52’s for the United States important during our time there.”

Air Force in 1986, and played a major role in the first Gulf War Mark’s prayer life was very active during his tour of combat at the dawn of the 1990’s as part of the 801st Bomb Wing. “We service. “I would say a full five decades of the Rosary during had 65 consecutive days of missions at the beginning of Desert the course of each flight as we had long stretches of travel over Storm and our very first bombing run was conducted at only 200 the Mediterranean.” Each of these missions taking place in feet to avoid enemy radar so the anti-aircraft fire was very heavy,” 1991 took 13 to 17 hours to complete. comments Mark. “It looked like fireworks lighting up the sky Retiring from active duty in 2008 after 22 years in the Air around us while we dropped our ordinance.”

Force, Mark now raises his two sons and continues to work When not piloting a at Barksdale in a civilian B-52 on a sortie, Mark capacity but he looks back rested at the US Air Base on his service with pride. in Morón, Spain. With “I joined because I was its massive flight line, inpatriotic and I wanted ground aircraft refueling to serve my country. In system and a long runway, retrospect, I found the Morόn occupies a prime whole experience positive location in the Iberian and rewarding.”

Peninsula, close to the This Veteran’s Day, let Middle East and is a vital us remember in a special link in our global military. way all those women A chapel was located on and men who serve our base where Eucharist country as members of was offered before our armed forces. We each mission. “If we want to especially recall didn’t have an Air Force those brave individuals Chaplain available we who have lost their lives would go to the nearest in the line of duty, making Spanish town of Seville the ultimate sacrifice for Father Richard Fale, formerly of the Alexandria-Shreveport diocese, and borrow a priest our nation while ensuring painting a water color of a house across the street from the Alias home in when necessary,” related our cherished way of life.

Germany. Fr. Fale was a close family friend of Dr. Alias and visited him and Mark, “the Mass and the his family while they were on their tour of duty.

14 15 Catholic Connection November 2010

Locals Reach Out Through Operation Support Our Troops

by Kelly Powell

S

hirley Olivieri-Mathies has an even better reason than most Americans to support soldiers stationed in the Middle East – her son, Dustin, is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point who recently returned from his second deployment in Iraq. He and his wife, a fellow West Point grad who was deployed to Afghanistan, are currently stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington.

For two years now, Olivieri-Mathies has been the chairman of the Shreveport chapter of Operation Support Our Troops (OSOT), a national non-profit organization whose sole mission is to collect and pack items to deployed military personnel. Another West Point mom, Sheryl Sheaffer, started OSOT in 2003. Her son, Scott, called home one day and asked, “Mom, where are you guys? All we’re seeing are the antis!” The Sheaffers were involved in Operation Home Front during the Gulf War in 1991, and she realized that her son and his fellow soldiers deserved the same support they had shown American troops 12 years earlier.

The Shreveport chapter of OSOT – the only one of its kind in the Ark-LaTex – sends care packages to soldiers five times a year for Valentine’s Day, Easter, Fourth of July, Halloween and Christmas. Olivieri-Mathies, a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton Catholic Church (SEAS) since 2003, implored her parish to get involved, and as she said, “This church just grabbed a hold of this project and ran with it.” SEAS is now a “drop point” for OSOT, which means parishioners and others in the community who want to donate items or money for the care packages can leave them at the church.

And Olivieri-Mathies and her team of volunteers need all the donations they can get. Last Christmas, OSOT packed 110 25- to 35-pound boxes and shipped them to remote areas in Afghanistan where soldiers rarely have access to dining halls and showers. Popular care package items include coffee, tea, creamer, sugar, granola or protein bars,

An Easter box prepared to ship overseas. Boxes include candy, hygiene items and hand crafted notes and cards. Boxes are shipped five times a year.

instant soup, Pringles potato chips (because they’re packaged in cans), nuts, candy, chewing gum (regular and sugarless), toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, lip balm, travel-size bottles of lotion, shampoo, conditioner and mouthwash (including those acquired from hotels), handmade artwork made by children and notes and letters of appreciation and encouragement.

American Climate Controlled Storage on Pines Road donated space to OSOT for use as a packing facility.

Recently, volunteers gave the space a makeover with fresh paint, new lighting, wall decor and more tables. Their last packing took place, appropriately, on September 11, when they prepared their Halloween shipment.

The next packing is scheduled for Saturday, November 13, when they will box items for Christmas. For this shipment, they need: instant hot chocolate, coffee and tea, instant oatmeal and grits, Ramen noodle and other instant soup cups (any flavor except pork), tuna in foil packs, tube socks, non-aerosol athlete’s food medication, lip balm, blank Christmas cards to send their families (no overtly religious themes), small games (unwrapped), puzzle books, handmade Christmas cards and artwork made by children, notes and letters of appreciation and encouragement. Of course, monetary donations not only help OSOT buy the supplies they need but also help offset

the cost of shipping.

Due to organizational rules, OSOT cannot ship certain items. These include pork products or anything pork flavored (e.g., Vienna sausage or spam), homemade baked goods (for safety reasons, all food must be commercially packed), overtly religious items (e.g., prayer books or rosaries), aerosol cans or anything suggestive.

If you bring items to one of the three dropout points, please leave shipping boxes unsealed, as OSOT volunteers must inspect the contents of every box before shipment. Troops get free postage when they send mail, but OSOT appreciates donations of books of stamps, which they use to send thank you notes to individuals or organizations that make donations. Notes and letters of appreciation and encouragement are vitally important in boosting troop morale, and they should begin, “Dear American Soldier.”

Besides SEAS at 522 East Flournoy Lucas Road in Shreveport, the other two drop points are American ClimateControlled Storage at 6721 Pines Road in Shreveport and Bank of Montgomery at 952 Keyser Avenue in Natchitoches.

If you’d like to participate in the next packing or want more information, contact Olivieri-Mathies Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at (318) 862-9847 or (318) 219-7488 at night or during weekends. You can also email her at ssomathies@yahoo.com.

15 14

Saints for Our Troops

While in their service he met a poor, naked beggar at the gates of here are several saints listed Amiens who asked as patrons of our service men alms in Christ’s Name. and women. I chose St. Martin Martin had nothing de Tours as our focus. Many older Catholics and literary buffs might recall with him except his these two designations; Michealmas and weapons and soldier’s Martinmas. They were mainstays on the mantle; but he took his sword, cut the liturgical calendar at one point and in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility these latter in two, and gave half to the poor man. two dates were referenced as a time that the two Miss Dashwoods’ would be During the following betrothed, married or as good as. Today night Christ appeared to him clothed with many people don’t realize that they are a half a mantle and still celebrated, although we call them said, “Martin, the by different names: the Feast of the catechumen, has Archangels and St. Martin’s Day. clothed Me with this St. Martin was born at Sabaria, a mantle!” town in Pannonia near the famous St. Martin’s feast, Benedictine monastery dedicated to his also known as “Martinmas” in Europe name. Against his parents’ wishes he arrives in autumn, the beginning of the became a catechumen at the age of 10. wine harvest. This was also the time At 15 he entered the army and served under Emperors Constantius and Julian. of the slaughter of the stock for winter

meat. His images are usually depicted with a goose, symbolizing that Martinmas is the last festival meal before Advent, because in France in the Middle Ages, the strict 40 day Advent fast began the next day. Thus it was the custom to have “St. Martin’s goose” and taste the new wine (St. Martin’s Wine) on his feast day. A quick spell of warm weather around his feast day is known as Indian Summer in the USA, and as St. Martin’s “Little Summer” in Europe. St. Martin’s feast day is November 11. Other patron saints for soldiers are St. Joan of Arc, St. George, and St. Sebastian.

Vianney was performed at last year’s USCCB Fall Assembly. Bishop Michael Duca attended the performance in Baltimore and said, “I saw the play in

by Janice Gonzalez a special showing to the Bishops last November and I found it inspiring. I encourage you not to let this opportunity go by.”

The response to Vianney has been overwhelming - young men have felt the call to the priesthood, audiences have a new appreciation for the Sacraments, and thousands of priests have been renewed and encouraged in their priestly vocations.

The Diocese of Shreveport’s Director of Vocations, Rev. David Richter, said, “Experiencing the St. John Vianney drama Photo courtesy of Saint Luke Productions. is a wonderful extension of the highhe popular theatrical one-man profile patron saint for priests from the drama, Vianney, performed by recent ‘Year for Priests.’ You will be both Leonardo Defilippis, will be inspired and entertained.” presented at 7:00 p.m. on Nov. 12 at the John Vianney, commonly known as Catholic Center in Shreveport and on the Curé of Ars, lived in the era following Nov. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Frederick High the French Revolution, which had School in Monroe. An additional private decimated the Catholic faith in France. A performance will be offered for Loyola poor peasant, incompetent in his studies College Prep’s students and faculty. This of Latin and theology, he was ordained popular production, which is sponsored anyway because of the shortage of priests. by the diocesan Office of Vocations, began Vianney was then sent off to the obscure touring the U.S. as a part of the worldwide village of Ars, where the people had fallen celebration of the Year for Priests declared into decadence, crime and debauchery.

by Pope Benedict XVI, and is continuing In his determination to save every single on tour for another year. soul put into his care, he encountered

tremendous resistance, and even violent supernatural attacks. Many nights, witnesses attested, the furniture was thrown around the rectory supernaturally, and the next morning the Curé emerged bruised and exhausted.

Vianney courageously overcomes these attacks, and succeeds not only in reforming the lives of his parishioners, but also in drawing, by his holiness and his ability to read souls, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims to the tiny parish.

Sixteen hours a day were spent in the cramped confessional, and people were willing to wait in line for days for a few minutes of his counsel. Vianney himself found the onslaught difficult to bear, and even tried to escape to a monastery to live and pray in peace. In the end, however, he returned to his flock, recognizing his role as “the shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep.”

Vianney is suitable for ages 9 and up. Admission will be a donation for vocations at the door. For the November 12 performance in Shreveport, the Knights of Columbus will offer a meal of hamburgers/drink starting at 5:30 p.m. The cost will be $5 per person for the meal. For more information contact Jeanne Brown 318-868-4441, ext. 257 or visit www.dioshpt.org or www. vianneydrama.com.

by Kim Long

T

Vianney Drama Coming to Shreveport Diocese

T

16 17 Catholic Connection November 2010

Diocese Hosts First Pro-Life Banquet

by Roxie Tabor

P

ro-Life supporters and volunteers celebrated Respect Life Sunday, October 3rd at St. Joseph’s Activity Center in Shreveport. The First Annual Bishop’s Pro-Life Banquet was a wonderful success with a large audience hearing Bishop Duca’s call for Catholics to be active witnesses of Christ’s love in all aspects of life from conception to natural Bishop Duca speaks at the Pro Life Banquet, hosted at St. Joseph Church, Shreveport. death.

Bishop Duca stressed that our secular Council #3407 Knights of Columbus, peers lost to abortion. society can make a “crazy” self-centered welcomed everyone and spoke of Guests of Honor for the evening were focus seem normal. (i.e. when you are the Knights of Columbus’ long term Chuck Meehan, Director of Volunteers around crazy all the time, it can make commitment to life issues including the of America, Shreveport and Mollie crazy seem normal). But, as Catholics, we annual Taste of Shreveport Benefit for Branch, Director of the Ark La Tex Crisis are called to resist feeling our values are Holy Angels.

Pregnancy Center. Music was provided by “crazy”. Instead we should be unafraid to Katie Vanchiere, senior at Loyola Eddie Morgan on the piano. witness the truth in all areas of our lives.

College Prep and winner of the Shreveport Bishop Duca concluded the evening Father Karl Daigle gave the opening 2010 Pro Life Oratory contest gave her by blessing blue 7-day votive candles for prayer and blessing for the banquet. Tom very heartfelt speech “If Only Given a families to take home and pray the pro-life Simms, Grand Knight of the Broadmoor Chance” which spoke of her “missing” intentions for the month of October.

Parishes Participate in Hope House

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor and Jane Snyder, St. Joseph Church

H

ope House is a small building on Austin Place behind the Municipal Auditorium which is owned by Holy Cross Episcopal Church and serves the homeless. They may go there to take a shower, wash their clothes, receive mail or hang out and share snacks. Hope House is managed by the Hope for the Homeless Coalition.

In October, local Catholic Churches began serving food at Hope House every Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, St. Mary of the Pines, St. Joseph in Shreveport, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and St. Jude will take turns each Wednesday of the month filling 70 boxes with various food items. At 5:00 p.m. they will deliver the meals to the Hope House and hand out the food with bottled water and tea.

The first Catholic participation in Hope House took place on Oct. 6. At 3:30 p.m. Parishioners from the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, St. Mary of the Pines and Sacred Heart in Shreveport met members of the Marian Knights of Columbus and Ladies Auxiliary to

Florence Finnelle and Robin Parker prepare meals to serve the homeless at Hope House.

assemble meals for the evening. That day’s food donation was provided by the Marian Council Knights of Columbus.

Volunteers smiled as they placed spaghetti and garlic bread in styrofoam boxes, counting to make sure they had at least the 70 food boxes they needed to adequately serve the homeless at Hope House.

Robin Parker, a parishioner at St. Mary of the Pines, and Jane Snyder, a parishioner at St. Joseph in Shreveport were instrumental in getting Catholics involved with this ministry.

“My son Ryan Parker is an addiction

counselor and works for the Hope for the Homeless Coalition,” said Robin Parker. “He asked us to get involved.

Jane Snyder has also been involved. She talked to my son and he told her to call me and here we are.”

St Paul’s Episcopal has been serving on Thursdays for 18 months and has found it to be a very fulfilling ministry. Recently Methodist churches have also volunteered to serve on Thursdays.

If you are interested in helping support this ministry with your time, talent or treasure, please contact your parish to offer help.

17 16

Hispanic Corner por Rosalba Quiroz

Calendario Diocesano del Mes de Noviembre 6 Retiro Espiritual (en Inglés) para Ministros Extraordinarios de Eucaristía, Centro Católico de 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Favor de registrarse con la Sra. Dianne Rachal al 318-868-4441 o drachal@dioshpt.org a mas tardar el 2 de Noviembre.

12 Obra de teatro de la vida de San Juan Vianney, Santo Patrono de los Sacerdotes evento en Ingles a las 7:00 p.m. en el Centro Católico. Niños desde 9 años pueden disfrutar de esta obra. No necesitan registrarse.

14 St. Fredericks High School en Monroe presentará la Obra de la vida de San Juan Vianney, también en Ingles, a las 6: 30 p.m.

20 Retiro de seguimiento para participantes de Búsqueda, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Centro Católico.

21 Fiesta de Nuestro Señor Jesucristo el Rey. Último Domingo del Año Litúrgico.

(CNS photo/Karen Callaway)

La Celebración del Día de Gracias ara los hispanos esta celebración es un día festivo en los Estados Unidos que aprovechamos para descansar, ir de compras y al que con timidez llamamos el día del pavo. Vemos con curiosidad que los mercados están llenos de comida de temporada como pavos, camotes, calabazas y adornos similares. Sin embargo el día del pavo es mucho más que eso.

Este es un día que los primeros peregrinos o inmigrantes, que llegaron a este país hace mas de un siglo, dedicaron para dar gracias por las bendiciones de cosecha. Ellos aprendieron a sembrar estas tierras y a sobrevivir de los frutos de su trabajo.

Nosotros, los más recientes peregrinos e inmigrantes, debemos adoptar este día como nuestro. Aprovechándolo para dar gracias a Dios por nuestra vida, la vida de nuestra familia, el perdón, la misericordia, tener lo necesario especialmente por tener alguien a quien amar. Así mismo, como Católicos Cristianos y creyendo que seremos llevados al Reino eterno cuando Jesús venga a nuestro encuentro, agradezcámosle su Amor y su constante

P

Misas

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

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

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

22 Concierto de Acción de Gracia por el Sr. Tony Melendez. ¡Regresa a Luisiana!. Ahora en Ruston, LA 6:30 p.m. Pedir más detalles a los coordinadores de su comunidad.

25 Día de Acción de Gracias.

26 Primer Domingo de Adviento. Comienzo del Año Litúrgico.

Anuncios

Recuerden que el almacén de la parroquia de Santa Maria de Los Pinos abre todos los domingos después de Misa para aquellas familias que necesiten artículos para el hogar o ropa. Si saben de familias con esta necesidad invítenlas a visitar el almacén y ver si consiguen algo que necesiten.

Clases de inglés en:

La Parroquia de Santa Maria de Los Pinos en Shreveport los domingos de 11:00 a.m. a 12:30 (antes de Misa)

La Parroquia de Cristo Rey en Bossier City los jueves de 6:00 p.m. a 8:00 p.m.

compañía en el diario caminar por la vida.

Como celebrar el Día de Acción de Gracias: Una sugerencia y la costumbre más popular es reunirse con familia, si es posible, y si no gracias por ella dondequiera que se encuentre; reunirse con amistades, amigos y/o vecinos para compartir una cena.

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

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

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

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

Recuerda que en medio del descanso, la compañía, la cena y la celebración hay que tomar unos momentos para de verdad DAR GRACIAS. Una idea sería tomarse de las manos con todos los presentes, formar una rueda y que cada uno de Gracias por una cosa en particular y así unidos colmaremos el mundo de Gracias. ¡FELIZ DIA DE DAR GRACIAS! Ruston: St. Thomas Aquinas 810 Carey Ave, Ruston 2do y 4to Domingo 2:30 p.m.

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

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

Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

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

18 19 Catholic Connection November 2010

Synod Opens with Call for Religious Freedom for All in Middle East by Cindy Wooden, CNS

Pope Benedict XVI speaks during the opening session of the Synod of Bishops for the Middle East in the synod hall at the Vatican Oct. 11. Also pictured are Croatian Archbishop Nikola Eterovic, secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, center, and Coptic Patriarch Antonios Naguib of Alexandria, Egypt, the synod's recording secretary.

(CNS photo/Paul Haring)

V

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In the face of tension and violence, Middle East Christians must work to defend freedom, democracy, peace and the human rights of each and every individual, said leaders of the Synod of Bishops for the Middle East.

“We must emerge from a logic in defense of the rights of Christians only, and engage in the defense of the rights of all,” said the introduction to the synod prepared and read by Coptic Patriarch Antonios Naguib of Alexandria, Egypt, the synod’s recording secretary, and

by Maronite Archbishop Joseph Soueif of Cyprus, synod special secretary. The introductory report introduced the topics for discussion at the synod during its first working session Oct. 11.

The goal of the synod, it said, is to promote “communion and witness -both communal and personal -- flowing from a life grounded in Christ and animated by the Holy Spirit.” The synod is not designed to solve political or social problems, the report said. But the report also acknowledged that the everyday life of Catholics in the region obviously is impacted by the political and social realities that can make their lives difficult and that have inspired their works of charity, education and health care for centuries.

The Catholic Church condemns all violence, whatever its origin, and calls for “a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” the report said. The church supports the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians to live in freedom and security in their own countries with internationally recognized borders, it said.

It also said the international community must pay greater attention to “the plight of Christians in Iraq, who are the primary victims of the war and its consequences.”

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the war in Iraq are the primary causes today of the emigration of Christians from the region, a phenomenon that not only reduces the Christian presence in the region but also robs the Catholic community of some of its best and brightest members who have an easier time getting into other countries.

While the history, presence, challenges and composition of the Catholic communities in the Middle East vary from Egypt to Iraq and from Turkey to Yemen, the report said they share an attachment to tradition and the experience of identifying themselves and being identified by others in a way that is strongly focused on their religious affiliation.

As Miners Rescued, Chileans Unite in Prayer

S

ANTIAGO, Chile (CNS) -- As miners were pulled one-by-one from the tunnel in the San Jose mine in Copiapo, where they’d awaited rescue since Aug. 5, Chile’s churches were hosting roundthe-clock vigils, special Masses appealing for the men’s safety and other prayers of thanksgiving. At a Mass that began near midnight Oct. 13, as the first miner was being brought to the surface, Santiago Auxiliary Bishop Cristian Contreras Villarroel said the lives of the 33 miners should be seen as a sign of the need all people have for redemption. “There is no saint without a past, nor sinner without a future,” he reminded the congregation in El Sagrario chapel next to Santiago’s Metropolitan Cathedral.

An elaborate capsule system was pulling the miners one at a time from the tunnel where they were trapped in a collapse of the mine. Family members, medical personnel, politicians, reporters and well-wishers were there to meet each man as he left the capsule that drew him to the surface. Prayer vigils and eucharistic adoration were to continue in churches around Chile until the last miner was pulled from the tunnel, Chilean church leaders said. “This is a propitious moment for the entire church to unite in faith and hope,” Bishop Alejandro Goic Karmelic of Rancagua, president of the Chilean bishops’ conference, told reporters Oct. 12.

Miner Mario Gomez, 63, the oldest of the 33 trapped miners, prays as he arrives on the surface after being rescued in Copiapo, Chile, Oct. 13. (CNS photo/Hugo Infante-Government of Chile via Reuters)

19 18

Around the Diocese 3

2

1 4

5 1 Bishop Duca Makes Birthday Special for St. Ann Parishioner

A

nita Kay Manshack, a parishioner of St. Ann Church in Ebarb, recently celebrated a very special birthday on September 3. Anita Kay was blessed to have the bishop join her after Mass for food, a little fun and socializing. Bishop Duca honored the group by reciting the blessing of the meal. Anita said Bishop Duca’s presence just added to her very special day. Her husband, Randle, was home from offshore and her son, Kenny Randle, recently moved back home from Washington.

2. Sacred Heart Church Rayville Hosted Successful Eucharistic Gathering

S

acred Heart Church in Rayville hosted a gathering of over 100 people from all over Richland parishes.

Various church denominations took

20 21 Catholic Connection November 2010

part in the event, which inluded panels on spirituality, business relationships, eduation, industiral development and law enforcement.

3. Poor Man’s Supper

J

esus the Good Shepherd Church held their annual Poor Man’s Supper on September 21. Thurman’s provided the food. All proceeds from the event benefited the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy.

4. St. Vincent de Paul National Conference Hosted in New Orleans

J

o Ann Crone, a leader in the St. Vincent de Paul community, attended the national conference along with Dotye Sue Stanford and Betty Cummings. Of her experience, Jo Ann said, “My trip to New Orleans for the St. Vincent de Paul National Convention September 8-12

was a great experience. I enjoyed the fellowship with hundreds of my fellow Vincentians from all over the United States and even Australia. I learned so much about our SVdP Society and the amazing works all over the country. I enjoyed daily Mass at the Sheraton Hotel at 11:15 a.m. and touring the Katrina hit areas and the St. Vincent de Paul thrift store, free pharmacy, learning center and The Ozanam Inn, which has been opened for 55 years and houses 96 men every night and feeds three hot meals a day to over 200 people.”

5.Jesus the Good Shepherd Church Raises Funds for Missionaries

O

n October 10, Bishop Duca joned JGS parishioners for an Enchilada Benefit Dinner to support a Mission Trip on Oct. 24 to Bayou La Batre, AL. We raised $1040 for donations. Ten

Friends of the Poor Walk Raised Funds for Society of St. Vincent de Paul

by Brian Burdges

6

7

T 8 parishioners took clothes, shoes, food, diapers and hygiene items and gave them out at the Bayou La Batre Convention center. This is one of the poorest cities in the United States, especially since the tragedies of Hurricane Katrina and the oil spill.

6. Christ the King Celebrated Fall Festival

T

he Christus Schumpert/Christ the King Catholic Church Health Fair on Oct. 20 provided glucose and cholesterol checks, blood pressure and vital sign checks, eye exams, hearing tests, weight/ height, flu shots and pneumonia shots.

Physicians were available to answer any questions. Northwestern State University College of Nursing personnel assisted with the testing. Translators were available for those who do not speak English. Representatives from LA CHIP, Medicaid, LSU Agricultural Center,

WIC, the Catholic Center Immigration Service Office, Social Security, Partners in Wellness Program, and Caddo Council on Aging all participated. Pictured: Fr. Rigoberto Betancurt helps out at the Fall Festival.

7. Sr. Marilyn Vassallo Led Retreat on Aging

S

eptember 15 and 16, Sr. Marilyn Vassallo, csj, led a session on Aging at St. Lucy Church in Hodge, LA. The presentation had a good attendance and attendees were attentive and expressed appreciation for the presentation. St. Lucy Church is looking forward to Sr. Marilyn’s next visit!

8. Youth Gather for Fellowship

T

he Middle and High School youth of St. Jude enjoyed a weekend of fun and fellowship at a canoe outing in Caddo State Park.

he Arthur Teague Parkway in Bossier City served as one of the locations of the 3rd annual Friends of the Poor® Walk on September 25. The Walk, conducted by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP), is a nationwide event intended to raise national awareness of the challenges faced by the nation’s poor and to raise funds for use in direct service to the poor. SVDP conferences from six churches in Shreveport and Bossier City participated in the local event with 50% more walkers participating this year than last. All funds raised locally will be used locally within each conference.

One of the oldest and most successful charitable organizations in the world, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (http://www.svdpusa.org/) is a Catholic lay organization of more than 690,000 men and women throughout the world who voluntarily join together to grow spiritually and offer person-to-person service to the needy and suffering in 142 countries on six continents. With the U.S. headquarters in St. Louis, MO, membership in the United States totals more than 146,000 in 4,600 communities.

21 20

Mission Market Place Upcoming Events

by Jane Snyder, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport

M

ark your calendar for Saturday, November 13.

Five area churches will be joining forces to offer the Shreveport community an opportunity to purchase free-trade crafts and food items which will enable craftsmen and farmers in underdeveloped countries to earn a living wage.

The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, St. Joseph Church in Shreveport, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy, Broadmoor Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church have joined forces to present this unique opportunity to promote fair trade.

The Marketplace will be held at the St. Joseph Church Family Life Center, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday November 13th. Soup from the Woman’s Bean Project will be served for lunch with desserts from Holy Angels and Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy. Also coffee, tea, and cocoa will be available to drink and purchase.

This market place not only connects us to disadvantaged artisans and farmers overseas, but also enables producers to improve their lives through the benefits of fair trade! Fair trade is an organized social movement and market-based approach which aims to help producers in developing countries obtain better trading conditions and promote sustainability.

Fair trade helps merchants earn a living wage both in the developing world and locally. Fair trade builds relationships between buyers and sellers which are rooted in the principles of human dignity and promotion of the common good!

22 23 Catholic Connection November 2010

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

NOVEMBER 6: RETREAT FOR EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS A retreat for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and Ministers to the Sick and Dying will be offered from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Catholic Center.

Realizing that Christ Jesus is the center of all ministry and service, the call to ministry is also a call to deepening spiritual growth. This retreat is not a “how to” of ministry, but will focus on spirituality by combining elements of Scripture, communal and private prayer, and conversation.

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

NOVEMBER 7 : FLU SHOTS AT ST. JUDE CHURCH St. Jude Catholic Church, in conjunction with Elite Heath Solutions, LLC, will host a Flu Clinic on Sunday, November 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Vaccination is your best protection against the flu. There will be no out of pocket cost for Medicare Part B Participants. For more information contact the Church office, 318-746-2508.

meet on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. and continue through November 10. The group meets in the Church Rectory dining room. For more information contact St. Jude Church at 318-746-2508 NOVEMBER 12 & 14: DRAMA OF ST. JOHN VIANNEY The Office of Vocations for the Diocese of Shreveport is working with St. Luke Productions to present a professional drama on the life of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of priests. The production will be Friday, November 12 at the Catholic Center theatre, where Leonardo Defilippis also did the drama on St. Maximillian Kolbe.

St. Frederick High School in Monroe will present the drama on Sunday, Nov. 14, from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Defilippis produced the film Therese (St. Theresa of the Child Jesus) a few years ago, shown in a local theatre. This production is appropriate for ages 9 and up, and described by local Catholics who have seen it as especially moving. www.stlukeproductions.com.

NOVEMBER 12 -14: LADIES’ RETREAT This Ladies’ Retreat, themed “Being a Woman of God,” will take place at Harris Retreat Center in Minden. There will be lay-led talks, table discussions, reflection time, rosary and fellowship. $100 includes room and board. To sign up for for more information, contact Becky Jamroz, 318-746-2508 or accountingstjude@bellsouth.net.

NOVEMBER 13-17: ST. PASCHAL PARISH MISSION A Parish Mission will be hosted at St. Paschal Church in West Monroe. Nationally known Franciscan Scripture scholar, Fr. Bill Burton, ofm, will give presentations each NOVEMBER 8 : HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS A Holy Hour for Vocations evening at 7:00 p.m. is scheduled at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton NOVEMBER 16 : TOAST AND Church on Monday, Nov. 8 at 6:30 pm.

ROAST OF MSGR. PROVENZA TO Fr. David Richter, Director of Church SUPPORT GINGERBREAD HOUSE Vocations, and Fr. Phil Michiels, Pastor The annual Toast and Roast benefitting of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, will Bossier/Caddo Children’s Advocacy lead prayers for more vocations to the Center and Gingerbread House will priesthood and consecrated life. feature Msgr. Earl V. Provenza, pastor ONGOING THROUGH NOVEMBER of Holy Trinity Church. Support for this event will provide critically needed 10 : ST. JUDE GRIEF GROUP On services for child abuse victims in our September 1, St. Jude Church in Bossier community at no cost to victims’ families. began a community grief support group for adults and teens experiencing the loss For information and tickets contact of a loved one. The group will continue to Gingerbread House, 318-674-2900.

NOVEMBER 2010 SUNDAY

MONDAY

31

TUESDAY

1 All Saints Day

7

14

Presbyteral Council Meeting, Catholic Center, 1pm

4

5

Saint Charles Borromeo, bishop

10

30

17

18

19

24

25

26

Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, religious

Saint Andrew Dung-Lac, priest and martyr, and his companions, martyrs

1

6

13 Saint Francis Xavier Cabrini, virgin

Saint Josaphat, bishop and martyr

Saint Leo the Great, pope and doctor of the Church

16

12

St. John Vianney Drama, Catholic Center, 6:30pm

Saint Martin of Tours,bishop

SATURDAY

World Community Retreat for Day Eucharistic Ministers, Catholic Center, 9am

11 Veteran's Day

Deadline for the December Catholic Connection

22 Annual Clergy23

29

FRIDAY

Saint Martin de Porres, religious

9 The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

Saint Cecilia, virgin Meeting, Catholic and martyr Center, 9am St. Clement I, pope & martyr; St. Columban, abbot; Blessed Miguel Agustin Pro, priest and martyr

28

FIirst Sunday of Advent

15

3

Saint Margaret of Saint Albert the Scotland; Saint Great, bishop and doctor of the Church Gertrude, virgin

21

2nd Collection: Campaign for Human Development Our Lord Jesus Christ the King

All Souls Day Priests Retirement Committee Meeting, Catholic Center, 11am

Holy Hour for Vocations, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 6:30pm

St. John Vianney Drama, St. Frederick High School, Monroe, 6:30pm

2

8

Daylight Savings Time Ends Mass Celebrating 90th Anniversary of Sacred Heart Church, Rayville

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

Thanksigiving Catholic Center Closed

20

2nd Collection: Campaign for Human Development

27

Catholic Center Closed

Saint Catherine of Alexandria, virgin and martyr

2

3

4

Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Saint Andrew, apostle

23 22

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

•

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Pets Blessed in Honor of St. Francis Throughout Diocese

E

ach year parishes across the country bless animals in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.

Several local parishes participated in this annual tradition. St. Mary of the Pines Church in Shreveport even included animal vaccinations with their blessings.

Barksdale AFB Chapel combined talents and had an ecumenical St.

Francis blessing of animals in front of Chapel One grounds. Thirty-five dogs were blessed as creatures of God’s Kingdom. Animal crackers and assorted people food were enjoyed following the blessing.

St. Jude Church blessed almost 50 dogs, cats, birds and other pets in the church’s courtyard during their annual celebration.

at ble s se s a do g s a m o h T e ik Fr. P C it y. ch in Bo s s ie r r u h C e d u J t.

S

Ba rk sdale Air Forc e Base Ch aplains bles se d 35 do gs du ri ng th ei r annual even t.

24 Catholic Connection November 2010

s e d p e ts at s le b ls ie h ic Fr. Phil M e t o n Ch u rch .

S n n A h t e b St. Eli z a