April 2024 - Celebrating our Youth

CATHOLIC CONNECTION VOL. 33 NO. 9 | APRIL 2024

Celebrating Our Youth APRIL 2024 1

CATHOLIC CONNECTION

CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHER

Bishop Francis I. Malone

EDITOR

Kirsten Shrewsberry

EDITORIAL BOARD

Very Rev. Msgr. Matthew T. Long

April 2024

Volume 33, Number 9 CELEBRATING OUR YOUTH

Rev. Kevin Mues

Laurie Nick Mary Arcement Alexander Lawrence W. Pettiette, Jr. Patrick R. Jackson Celeste Powell Sarah Romanski MariJo Jones Tristan Frisk Mike Van Vranken Karen Dill Dani Gowen Pablo and Bella Ortega Ashley McKee Amanda Nicholas Hall Lindsey Krouse Marina Bishop Elizabeth Kleinpeter Maria Harrington Brandy Sadler Jordan Harris Cassandra Key Stephanie Haney Sharon McCabe Polly Maciulski Jill Wier Amy Fakhre Joe Bulger Julia Pettiette Doolin, Ph.D. Lucy Medvec

SUBSCRIPTIONS & ADDRESS CHANGES Contact: Blanca Vice Email: bvice@dioshpt.org Write: The Catholic Connection 3500 Fairfield Ave. Shreveport, LA 71104 Call: 318-868-4441 Fax: 318-868-4609

SUBMISSIONS

Contact: Kirsten Shrewsberry Email: doseditor@dioshpt.org

Dcn. Charles Thomas OFS

Rosalba Quiroz

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

The Diocese of Shreveport complies with Virtus’ Protecting God’s Children program. (www.virtus.org) Online sessions are available. To report child sexual abuse by a cleric or church worker in the Diocese of Shreveport, call your local law enforcement agency and Mary Arcement Alexander, Diocesan Victim Assistance Minister at 318-588-2120. Thank you for helping to keep our children and vulnerable adults safe.

The Catholic Connection is funded in part by a grant from Catholic Home Missions and donations to the Catholic Service Appeal.

Karla Alvarez

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MISSION STATEMENT

The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Catholic 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 faith community.

from the editor Kirsten Shrewsberry, Editor and Diocesan Director of Public Relations ON MARCH 2ND, I HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF WITNESSING SOMETHING THAT GENUINELY STIRRED MY SOUL. I attended the Diocesan Youth

Summit (DYS) to take pictures. What star ted as a day of obser vation quickly turned into a day of reflection for myself and, ultimately, a day filled with optimism for the youth of our Church. At this year's DYS, the theme was Revive.

There were a few hundred of our diocesan youth gathered to worship Jesus, encounter him truly in the Eucharist during Adoration and then during Mass, experience His grace through the sacrament of Reconciliation, and spend time in fellowship and community, laughing, sharing their hear ts, and growing in faith. It was inspirational, and I'm sure ever yone left feeling revived in their faith. If you ever feel despair about the youth of our Church, you need only attend DYS to trample that concern.

The youth in the Diocese of Shrevepor t are doing some pretty incredible things. From youth groups to faith formation to Catholic schools, our youth provide an excellent example of living on fire for the gospel. This month's magazine features youth from all across our diocese engaging in spiritual growth and formation. Almost

100 students traveled to the Pines camp in Texas and attended their confirmation retreat. Hundreds of students were at Revive, the 2024 Diocesan Youth Summit, at the beginning of March. Lastly, at the end of March, the families of Garrett Taylor, John Foret, and Charles Foret traveled to New Orleans for the Louisiana Catholic School Student of the Year awards, where Charles Foret of St. Joseph

School was awarded fifth-grade student of the year for the state of Louisiana.

The youth in the Diocese of Shrevepor t are investing themselves in the Church. We see this all over the diocese in ever y area they are involved in. As they continue to seek oppor tunities to create deeper spiritual connections, more outreach prospects, and paths toward sainthood, we have a duty to suppor t them in these endeavors. I encourage you to find ways to help the youth at your parish - whether by volunteering with your parish school of religion, cooking a meal for your youth group, or donating to a parish school fundraiser ; these youth need our suppor t. Wishing you all a blessed and faith-filled April!

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content FEATURES 5 6 12 15

From the Bishop Reviving the Young Church

By Laurie Nick Confirmation Retreat 2024 The Youth Are the Church

By Tristan Frisk

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COLUMNS 10 16 18

Mary's Mission: Our Youth: The Lifeline of the Church Mike's Meditations: Accompanying Our Youth Karen Dill: Faith Blooms At Camp Little Flower

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NEWS 11 26 33 34 34 36

The Red Mass School News CCNLA: Home,With Some Help From CCNLA Around The Diocese Divine Mercy Sunday Seminarian Burses

Cover photo is Charles Foret, Louisiana Catholic School Fifth Grade Student of the Year by Kirsten Shrewsberry, Diocesan Director of PR and Editor.

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from the bishop

IF THERE IS A PARTICULAR “JOY” THAT FILLS MY LIFE AS A BISHOP, IT IS THOSE MOMENTS WHEN I AM IN CONTACT WITH THE YOUTH OF OUR DIOCESE. And while the most concentrated

group of young people occurs at the conferral of the Holy Spirit at Confirmation, I am surrounded by our blessed young frequently. When I offer Mass at our schools, when I encounter the young with their parents at Sunday Mass, and on special occasions like the “Youth Summit” which we just held here on the Catholic Center Campus on March 2nd. A few hundred of our youth, from seventh grade through high school gathered for prayer, reconciliation, music, guest presentations, and the Eucharist, both at Mass and for adoration.

The joy that filled my heart throughout the Summit, other than celebrating Mass, was hearing confessions, something I do not have many opportunities to do. The incredible joy of looking into the face of our youth as they pour out their love of the Lord in sorrow for their failings, and in receiving a portion of His mercy is almost too much to take in – but it highlighted the sincerity of these wonderful young people. It is a sight, more than the visible experience of long lines of our youth seeking with longing that which only He can give and gives generously in this sacrament. It is the sincerity in their voices as they speak to Him through the minister of the sacrament, and it is the look on their faces.

These things fill me with the joy of being a priest and of a bishop entrusted with the growing faith of our young.

What a blessing!

Coming in a close second is when I visit our parishes for the conferral of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation. I get to see their faces once again – and hear their voices respond to the profession of faith in God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. My practice is to meet with all those about to be confirmed 30 minutes before the Confirmation Mass – and to experience the approaching joy of God’s Holy Spirit upon them. They look and act prepared for that sacred moment about to come – and their words are sincere, and their souls ready.

There are other wonderful encounters with our youth that sometimes go unnoticed – like when they act as Altar Servers at Mass – and perform so well the sacred duties at the Altar!

We could go further to witness how wonderful is their presence among us – and to encourage them to continue their service in the Church, to compliment them in their duties, and to thank them for who they are right now.

Sometimes, people will look at them and remark, “you are the future of the Church.” In fact, they are NOT the future – they ARE the Church, and a very important part of who we are when we gather to worship the Lord. I am blessed to call them “my own,” and to pray that they continue on the path that leads them to God! Please join me in celebrating our youth – and thanking God that He has sent them our way.

May God bless you in every way.

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Reviving the Young Church

Highlights from the Second Annual Diocesan Youth Summit Laurie Nick, Diocesan Director of Youth Ministry

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ON SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 2024, THE GROUNDS OF THE CATHOLIC CENTER IN SHREVEPORT BUZZED WITH EXCITEMENT AS YOUTH IN GRADES 7 THROUGH 12 FROM ACROSS THE DIOCESE GATHERED FOR THE SECOND ANNUAL DIOCESAN YOUTH SUMMIT.

With the theme “Revive,” inspired by the story of the woman at the well, the event aimed to remind young par ticipants that true satisfaction and fulfillment can only be found in Jesus. This day was a resounding success, bringing together youth from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their shared faith and to inspire greater participation in their local parishes. continued on page 8.

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The emcees for the event, Jaqueline Espinoza from Christ the King and John Patrick Frantz from Jesus the Good Shepherd set the stage for an unforgettable day as Co-Chairs of the Diocesan Youth Advisory Council.

Assisting them were thirteen additional dedicated members: Shelby Bartels, Ashtyn Bierwirth, Julie Dolan, Teresa Fields, Armando Juarez, Tyler Mitchell, Pricila Mondragon, Patrick Parrie, Margaret Rocconi, Jacqueline Romero, Lillie Ryals, Claire Sawyer, and Aiden Woods. These exceptional high school leaders, representing parishes across the diocese, played pivotal roles in organizing and leading various activities throughout the day, including small group discussions, prayers, skits, icebreakers, and other engaging programs. Their commitment and enthusiasm were instrumental in creating a vibrant and meaningful experience for all attendees.

The day was genuinely elevated by the contributions of numerous individuals who added to its extraordinary atmosphere. The Scally Brothers Band, hailing from Toledo, Ohio, electrified the crowd with their high-energy praise and worship music, leaving everyone on their feet. As for our keynote speaker, Ali Hoffman, her zeal for Jesus and the Catholic Church shined through her captivating message and presence.

One of the afternoon’s most memorable moments was the Holy Hour led by Fr. John Paul Crispin. As Fr. John Paul reverently processed through the crowd with Jesus in the monstrance, the palpable presence of Christ enveloped everyone in attendance, making His divine presence known to all. During this sacred time, what truly inspired me was witnessing over half of the attendees receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The unwavering dedication of our diocesan priests to the spiritual well-being of our young people was evident in this profound moment of reconciliation and renewal.

I sincerely appreciate Bishop Malone’s genuine love for young people. Bishop Malone’s commitment to nurturing the young Church is unmistakable from his dedicated presence at our planning meetings to his warm interactions with my Diocesan Youth Advisory Council

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during shared meals. During the event, Bishop Malone could be seen engaging in heartfelt conversations with young attendees, offering the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and presiding over our Mass with reverence and warmth. This Mass held a special significance as Bishop Malone bestowed a crucifix upon each graduating high school senior in attendance, symbolizing their Catholic faith guiding them into the next exciting chapter of their lives. The presence of Bishop Malone, alongside seven priests, two deacons, nine religious sisters, and all three of our seminarians, elevated the event. Their collective support and involvement highlighted the importance of fostering a vibrant and supportive community for our youth within the Church.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone across the Diocese of Shreveport who made this event possible, especially those who contributed to the Catholic Service Appeal, which funds this event. Special thanks are owed to the dedicated youth leaders, adult chaperones, diocesan clergy and staff, and volunteers who worked to ensure the success of this event. Your unwavering support and commitment are truly commendable. I also want to express deep appreciation to the Knights of Columbus for their generous sponsorship of our lunch, as well as to the Louisiana Catholic Federal Credit Union and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for sponsoring the event. Thank you to everyone who contributed time, resources, and energy to revive our youth in the Diocese of Shreveport! The Diocesan Youth Summit was funded in part by a grant from Catholic Home Missions.

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Our Youth: The Lifeline Of The Church

Mary Arcement Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor & Diocesan Victim Assistance Minister “Only the young can say. They’re free to fly away. Sharing the same desire. Burnin’ like wildfire.” Only the Young, Journey If you were born in the ‘70s, then I have a feeling as you read the above words, you were actually singing them just as I did as I wrote them. “Only the Young” debuted in March of 1985, precisely 39 years to date. In 1985, I was one of those “only the young,” free to fly away and burn like the wildfires. Fast forward to today, I am now “young-ish,” not doing a lot of flying away, but thanks to hot flashes, the burning like wildfires is still relevant. In all seriousness, the young or youth of the Church are the lifelines to our survival. Without them, we die.

Before I dive into the good news, let’s acknowledge the obvious truth, our youth are leaving the Church in droves. Many abandon God altogether, many moving on to greener pastures that offer lights, cameras, and action, the antithesis to the Mass. According to a 2015 study done by Pew Research, “Overall, 35% of adult Millennials (Americans born between 1981 and 1996) are religiously unaffiliated. Far more Millennials say they have no religious affiliation compared with those who identify as evangelical Protestants (21%), Catholics (16%) or mainline Protestants (11%).” Although the stats are not beaming with positivity, we still have time to increase these numbers, but we have a lot of work to do and not a lot of time. In case you are unaware, the enemy appears to be winning this battle for our youth. He is directly targeting them because he, too, knows if they abandon the Church, if they abandon God, then Christianity as a whole risks a slow but steady death. This now begs the question of why the enemy is attacking our youth on a large scale?

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In my humble opinion, this begins in early childhood and upwards to young adulthood because of what these scripture verses entail: “Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in cour t.” Ps. 127:35. The key words here are heritage from the LORD, blessed is the man, and full of them. Our children are from the LORD. They are a blessing from Him, and we are called to be full of them, to be fruitful and multiply. The enemy knows that God desires us to create more humans for His kingdom. The more children we have, the more we grow as a church, and the more we grow as a church, the more we please God. The more we please God, the more the enemy steals, kills, and destroys. Fear not, sisters and brothers; all is not as bleak as it appears! Now, on to the good news.

In 1986, our beloved Pope St. John Paul II founded World Youth Day after he felt the church was concerned about our youth. He initially anticipated around 60,000, but to his and everyone’s surprise, a quar ter of a million attended. Since its inauguration, there have been 12 international WYD, with the last one being held in Lisbon, Por tugal, in 2023. The total attendance capped at over one million people, which included roughly 354,000 youth. FOCUS is a Catholic outreach program for American college students founded in 1997

by Cur tis Martin and Dr. Edward Sri. Their mission is simple: make disciples for Christ. As of 2021, FOCUS has more than 850 missionaries in over 250 locations. The majority of missionaries are in their twenties. Yes, we still have a lot of work to do, but these two organizations alone ease my angst and remind me the enemy is winning battles, not wars. That, my friends, is reserved for God and God alone. St. Aloysius Gonzaga, pray for us.

The Red Mass

Lawrence W. Pettiette, Jr. and Patrick R. Jackson, Red Mass Society Co-Chairs The Red Mass Society will host a banquet the evening before, Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the Petroleum Club in honor of the Cardinal’s visit. Ticket information is below. Catholics are encouraged to attend the banquet as well as the Mass.

The tradition of the Red Mass dates back to the 13th century in Europe. It is called “Red Mass” because of the color of the vestments worn by the celebrants of the Mass, which symbolizes tongues of fire representing the Holy Spirit. In ancient times, the robes of the attending Judges were bright scarlet, providing an additional reason for the name Red Mass.

THE 30TH RED MASS WILL BE HELD AT HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH IN SHREVEPORT ON FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2024. Music begins at

The Red Mass is a Votive Mass calling upon the Holy Spirit as a source of wisdom, understanding, counsel, and for titude.

The Red Mass is celebrated worldwide, generally at the be-

8:30 a.m. and is provided by the Zion Baptist Church Choir under the direction of Pastor Brady Blade. Director Aaron Wilson and combined diocesan choirs will present the liturgical music. The Mass star ts promptly at 9:00 a.m.

This year’s principal celebrant is the Apostolic Nuncio, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the Pope’s representative and Vatican ambassador to the United States. Also presiding will be Bishop Francis I. Malone of the Diocese of Shrevepor t.

Master of Ceremonies will be Father Duane Trombetta, Pastor of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

This year’s honorees are the five mar tyred priests who died during the 1873 Yellow Fever epidemic in Shrevepor t 150 years ago: Father François LeVézouët, Father Louis Gergaud, Father Jean-Marie Biler, Father Isidore A. Quémerais, and Father Jean Pierre (the first pastor of Holy Trinity Catholic Church). Cardinal Christophe Pierre is from the same province in France as these five mar tyred priests who are currently designated as Servants of God as the first step to canonization.

ginning of the judicial year. In Shreveport, it is held during Law Week with Judges, lawyers, law enforcement officers, public officials of all faiths, and the public par ticipating in the Mass.

The primary purpose of our Red Mass is to invoke God’s blessing and guidance in the administration of justice within the rule of law. The Diocese of Shrevepor t, the Red Mass Society, and the Shrevepor t Bar Association sponsor the Red Mass.

Holy Trinity is designated a minor shrine of the five priests of the 1873 Yellow Fever epidemic.

For ticket information for the banquet, call Larry Pettiette (Shrevepor t) at (318) 221-1800, Patrick Jackson (Bossier City) at (318) 752-3335, or Tony Tramontana (Monroe) at (318) 340-1515.

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CONFIRMATION RETREAT 2024 The last weekend in February, approximately 80 students from our diocese had the oppor tunity to attend The Pines Catholic Camp in Big Sandy,Texas.The students played games, ziplined, and challenged themselves in the Adventure Park! They bravely tried new things, met new friends, and learned to work together! They learned the importance of their prayer life and the Catholic community’s values. They had the oppor tunity to be Christ-like and care about people they had just met, ensuring everyone was included!

They par ticipated in adoration, confession, and Mass! All these were moving experiences for students having a special time with our Lord! Young missionaries shared their stories about how developing their relationship with God improved their lives. They were inspired to be closer to God, and many expressed interest in going on another retreat! This was a beautiful spark for their future relationship with our Lord and Savior!

-Celeste Powell

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A group comprising of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Joseph, St. Paul, and Holy Family Barksdale AFB gathered at The Pines Catholic Camp to witness their Catholic faith as a united community. The confirmands and their chaperones experienced the glory of their Creator as they hiked, played, and challenged each other in trust, love, and kindness. The group looked forward to returning to their Catholic communities and celebrating the joys of being Catholic and the courage to take that joy back to their Shrevepor t communities.

At the conclusion of the weekend, the confirmands were encouraged to share their experiences. Most of them testified to the powerful experience they had in Adoration. In John 14:15-18, Jesus says, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth, which the world cannot accept because it neither sees nor knows it. But you know it because it remains with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.”

The group requests that you keep the confirmands in your prayers as they continue their spiritual journey toward heaven. In his homily, Fr. Raney Johnson stated, “Confirmation is not a graduation, but rather a beginning.”

-Sarah Romanski, Director of Faith Formation, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans

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Duffle bags, char ter bus fumes, loud giggles, and weekend luggage don’t necessarily scream spiritual transformation.

That was our setting as we prepared to leave for a beautiful Confirmation retreat. The last weekend in February, St. Joseph’s confirmands traveled to The Pines Retreat center in Big Sandy, Texas. As St. Joseph parish’s new Director of Religious Education, I was as excited and nervous as the eighth-grade confirmands attending. From the moment we pulled up at the retreat center, we could all feel a peace that only God’s beautiful creation could provide. The staff at the Pines did a fantastic job keeping our schedules full of relevant and reflective activities. Somewhere between gaining the courage to leap off the zip-line platform and attending a beautiful adoration hour, changes were taking place within the hear ts and minds of our youth. During one of the activities, the students were asked to complete a solo hike.

As they walked through the Pines’ magnificent grounds, they were given written prompts encouraging them to reflect on their faith. As we attended other activities, I witnessed our relationships with each other and with Jesus deepening. On Sunday morning, the retreat concluded with a beautiful Mass offered by Father Raney. The Holy Mass was held at the Pines’ outdoor cathedral, and we all noticed the splendor of the windy day. In fact, during the Mass, the wind was blowing so hard that Msgr. Price had to assist Father Raney by holding down the pages of the Missal as he read. Just like the wind changes an environment, when the Holy Spirit moves, He also transforms the soul. These transformations were clearly and beautifully observed by all who attended the 2024 Pines Confirmation retreat.

-MariJo Jones, Director of Religious Education, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport

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The Youth Are The Church Tristan Frisk, Diocesan Seminarian

IT IS NOT ENTIRELY ACCURATE TO SAY OR BELIEVE ONLY IN THIS STATEMENT: “THE YOUTH ARE THE FUTURE OF THE CHURCH.” Surprising to

hear? It was the same for me the first time I heard it. While the statement is not wrong by supposing that the youth will grow and have a more active and official role within the Church, the more accurate statement is “The Youth are the Church.” (For fur ther note, when I speak of the youth, I refer to those around the ages of 10 to 35, as can be identified in various health statistics). I find so much delight and insight in this statement because it makes clear that the youth are not future par ticipants in the Church, as the first statement would lead us to believe, but that the youth are par ticipating right now in the Church. Speaking for the first time at World Youth Day in Por tugal 2023, Pope Francis told around 500,000 youth that “we as the Church are the community of those who are called.” Pope Francis’ choice of words highlighted the youth as the Church, who share in the vocation to live out the Love of Jesus Christ. However, this can happen only when older adult Catholics are willing to help.

One way adult Catholics in the Church can assist the youth in a fuller par ticipation is to “lend an ear” or listen to what they have to say. This, I hold, is an indispensable way that adults can build up the par ticipation and life of the youth in the Church by being able to learn from their knowledge, able to guide them in their growth in holiness, and by their inspiration. In doing this, the youth and older adults can live as the Church not only in Christ’s sufferings but also in Christ’s joys.

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Accompanying Our Youth

Mike Van Vranken, Spiritual Director

“We can only support others if we ourselves are undergoing conversion, both personal and communal . . . The unity of truth and love implies bearing the difficulties of others, even making them our own . . . This unity can only be achieved, however, by patiently following the path of accompaniment.”

(From page 6 of the synthesis repor t of the global Synod on Synodality, Oct. 4 – 29, 2023) Assuming we are, indeed, undergoing personal and communal conversion, we adults must examine how we are bearing the difficulties and questions of our youth and accompany them by listening and understanding. Our willingness to join their journey and grow alongside them is the only authentic way to suppor t who they are right where they are. This article will only consider a few situations where our youth can use our accompanying support.

One issue that comes to mind is how our youth view our talk vs our walk. Paragraph 2267 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “Consequently, the Church teaches, in light of the Gospel, that ‘the death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person,’ and she works with determination for its abolition worldwide.” If we encourage our youth to follow clear Catholic teaching, are we neglecting them when we suppor t the death penalty in our state? Are we eager to ask our youth how they integrate Catholic teaching on this issue into their consciences? Are we willing to listen and accompany them as they seek to follow this Catholic teaching? Or, more bluntly, are we willing to pray for the grace of our conversion so we can follow that Catholic teaching and then suppor t our youth to do the same?

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Unfor tunately, today’s youth have been living in a world with violent and merciless wars all their lives. How are we adults accompanying them through these wicked horrors? Are we spending our time justifying our military might and power?

Are we looking for ways to comfor t the suffering war victims and help financially rebuild their lives? Are we welcoming their refugees into our country and our churches? Are we sharing with our youth Jesus’ dogmatic teaching: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person” (Mt 5:38-39)? His words are unambiguous. No matter their age, every young person knows exactly what Jesus is saying. Of course, He even practiced this commandment at His trial, when he explained to Pilate that He could call on His angels to save Him, but He didn’t (Mt 26:53-54). Jesus was showing us that violence stopped with Him 2,000 years ago. Do we dare suppor t our youth with the teachings of Jesus? Or do we make up our own rules about war?

One of the easiest ways to spiritually suppor t our youth is to hold up the life and actions of Jesus of Nazareth, who taught: “Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of hear t” (Mt 11:29). How often have you read where a church leader is encouraging our young men to be meek and humble of hear t? When did you last hear a homily that explained how Catholic men who follow Jesus are men of meekness and humility? Jesus strived to stop toxic masculinity once and for all. He looked at Peter and asked if Peter really loved him.

And the once testosterone-driven Peter replied: “Yes Lord, you know I love you” (John 21:15-17). In what concrete ways are we teaching our young men to be men of love, meekness, and humility?

Some of our youth fear the painful suffering of our planet more than anything else. We experience floods, rising sea levels, extreme heat, drought, and famine because of the inability to grow crops. The evolutionary changes in our environment cause some of these problems. Some of them have been caused by creatures, including humans. But the question that many of our youth ask is: “What are we doing about it?”

Are our churches leading the way to help our ailing brothers and sisters worldwide suffering from these disasters? Are our churches leading by example with sound and proven ways to help our local environments? Are we asking our youth how they feel that we may leave them with an unsustainable home?

There are many ways we, as the church, can support our youth. We can plan retreats, outings, concer ts, and good ole pizza parties. And those are all fine. But to me, the more Jesus-like approach would be to sit down with them and ask what’s on their minds and hear ts. This strategy asks them to express their joys, hopes, fears, and anxieties to us so we can walk with them, understand them, and experience those and other emotions with them. Let’s ask those who do not frequent Mass to share their stories. Let’s ask those who have been hur t to allow us to help them heal. Let’s discover their hopes and dreams with them. Then, let’s live for them the Christ-like examples Jesus taught and lived for us. I think it would make a difference. And I’m confident it is way past time we experience our own conversions first. This would allow us to star t authentically suppor ting our youth in ways that bring them and us closer to Christ.

The Arm of

ST. JUDE THE APOSTLE is visiting the United States and is coming to THE STATE OF LOUISIANA

DATE: Divine Mercy Sunday (Sunday, April 7, 2024) CHURCH: St. Jude Catholic Church ADDRESS: 4700 Palme�o Road - Benton, Louisiana 71006 (318) 746-2508 SPECIAL MASS IN HONOR OF SAINT JUDE: 3:00 PM VENERATION OF THE RELIC BEGINS: immediately a�er Mass VENERATION ENDS: 8:00 PM CHECK THE WEBSITE BELOW FOR OTHER LOCATIONS

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Faith Blooms At Camp Little Flower Karen Dill, Spiritual Director

Jesus said, “ Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

Matthew 19:14 When Elise Reis saw that our diocese offered a children’s camp last summer, she immediately registered her oldest daughter and signed up as a volunteer camp counselor. Her enthusiasm for this adventure is contagious.

As a parishioner at St. Thomas Aquinas in Ruston, Elise had never attended a summer camp as a child. However, she did have much to offer due to her background as an elementary school teacher and former DRE at her parish.

Elise also had several years of parenting experience in her backpack. So she and her daughter loaded up their gear and headed off to Bethany, Louisiana, for a 5-day action-packed program designed by Father Raney Johnson to enhance the faith formation of Catholic youth ages 8-13. Together, they, with a team of several other adult counselors and many young adult volunteers, prepared to till the “good soil” in the hear ts of the campers they were about to serve.

Each day was filled with activities designed around the theme of spiritual vir tues and the life of St. Therese of Lisieux. As the campers engaged in rock climbing, swimming, archery, canoeing, and hiking, they also learned firsthand how to live out the gospel in their young lives through interactions with their counselors and fellow campers. The campers attended Mass daily, where counselors invited them to par ticipate in the liturgy by becoming lectors and altar servers. They created decorations for the chapel and learned Mass etiquette. By the third day, the oppor tunity for 24-hour adoration was made available. Each night, they participated in skits around the campfire that reinforced the lessons they had learned that day.

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Elise was inspired as she witnessed the campers’ and her own spiritual growth.

She watched as the younger, first-time campers overcame their homesickness and entered joyfully into the daily activities. Elise watched them make friends who shared their Catholic faith, an experience that is sometimes rare for children in small towns who don’t encounter many Catholic peers their age. She watched them get to know visiting religious sisters and priests each day. As for her take-away, she described the week as “an oasis” where she could focus on serving others and “get out of my head space.” She came back home with a refreshed soul. She is eager to return to Camp Little Flower this year with her two daughters in tow.

The safety of the campers is a primary concern. Two volunteer nurses are available each day. Every counselor is trained in our Protecting God’s Children program. Each camper is assigned to a buddy, and each small group is closely supervised by two counselors throughout the day and night. Elise was happy to report that no emergencies arose last year. As a parent, she felt the camp was a safe place for the campers to let their faith lives flourish.

In the parable of the sower, Jesus described the seeds that “fell into good soil and produced a crop a hundred times as great.” As disciples in the Diocese of Shrevepor t, we can pray for the success of this year’s camp by lifting the campers and their counselors and asking God to use this experience to produce good fruit in the form of passionate young people who will mature in their faith and grow to live out the vocations He has for each of their lives.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

Dani Gowen,Youth Minister at St. John the Baptist

As a young adult, fresh out of college and beginning my career, I struggled to find my role in the Church and to discern my calling. I sought guidance from God through prayer and patience, and one day after Mass, Melissa McElwee, the youth group leader, tracked me down and asked me to join. It was almost as if God was putting this perfect opportunity into my hands, and how could I say no to sweet Mrs. Melissa. I have been a youth minister for almost 1 ½ years now, and it has been the most fulfilling and life-changing journey. This opportunity has helped me connect with young people and guide them in one of the most crucial times of their lives.

My journey began when I was a member of the youth group myself. Growing up in the Catholic faith, I attended various retreats and conferences around our diocese, and this group taught me the importance of a strong foundation of faith at a young age. These experiences ignited my passion to work with the youth group and aid them in their personal and spiritual journies.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a youth minister is the chance to journey with these kids as they grow in their faith. I have witnessed firsthand the power of God's love in the lives of the young people I serve, whether by helping them discern their vocation or supporting them through times of struggle and doubt. Being

a youth minister has allowed me to witness young people's incredible resilience and faith.

It requires creativity, adaptability, and a willingness to constantly learn and grow. This has pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and learn new skills.

My experience has deepened my spiritual life. Being entrusted with the spiritual formation of young people called me to deepen my relationship with God and seek Him more. Not only has it enriched my faith, but it has also allowed me to lead by example and inspire the young people I serve to do the same.

Becoming a youth minister in the Catholic Church has been my most rewarding and transforming decision. I have connected with young people meaningfully, grown personally, and served my church parish while enriching my own spiritual life. As I continue this journey, I am grateful for the chance to serve and mentor these young people and witness the incredible ways in which God continues to work in their lives.

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CHRIST THE KING

Pablo and Bella Ortega,Youth Ministers at Christ the King

A Family, a place of acceptance, a place where we get closer to Jesus and love one another, a place where we learn to realize our wrongs and rights, OUR HOME. These are some of the adjectives used by the teenagers of Christ The King Church to describe the youth group.

Every Wednesday from 6 to 8 PM in room 4 at the church’s school, twenty-five to thirty teenagers meet to come closer to God. The approach focuses on three main things: knowing and understanding the faith, service, and friendship.

Just like other teenagers, the teenagers at CTK have questions. These questions cannot be taken lightly, as they will pave the road to a life closer to God. Every Wednesday, the youth group meets to talk about these topics. We touch on spirituality, mental health, relationships, saints, Jesus’ life, Church doctrines, etc.

Last December, the youth group helped with the annual food drive held by the church. The youth were responsible for collecting, sorting, and organizing the food to be distributed for the holidays. The group also helps the PSR with the kids’ pick-up every Wednesday. They’re responsible for ensuring 300+ PSR kids are delivered safely to their parents. The group has also gotten involved in parish life. They were responsible for the Liturgy for this year’s Ash Wednesday Mass. They served as lectors, altar servers, ushers, and choir for the third year in a row.

Once a quarter, they do a holy hour and spend time with Jesus.

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Every Wednesday, we start with either a game or a sharing activity. It allows them to get to know other teenagers more profoundly and start creating meaningful friendships. The group also has “fun” days throughout the year where they play soccer/volleyball or simply spend some time with each other. In addition to all these activities, the group plans a yearly camping trip. The group goes to a place where they can connect with God through nature.

During the trip, they served each other as smaller subgroups and were responsible for cooking and cleaning up duties. The youth create friendships through different activities centered on God throughout the trip.

In the words of one of the CTK teenagers, “Grupo (Spanish for Youth Group) is a chance to unlock the door to your faith and to be able to have a stronger connection with Jesus… It is a place where you go to get away from all that is stressful, and when you go to Grupo and leave all the stress behind, you are reminded that God is with you.”

ST. JUDE

Ashley McKee, Director of Middle/High School Ministries at St Jude

I have been volunteering with religious education since high school. Through my experience, I have witnessed the youth become outstanding Catholics and leaders in our parish, and watching and working with the youth has only made me want to be better. When I had my first child, I took a 4-year break from volunteering, but I returned when he was old enough to attend classes. I told the office I would work with any age/grade, and that year, I was assigned to an eighth-grade confirmation class. I've worked with middle and high school youth ever since, and now I'm the Director of Middle/High School Ministries at St. Jude Catholic Church. Some days are more challenging than others, but I always feel I receive more than I give. This is the first time I have had a job as rewarding as this one.

Our youth at St. Jude stay busy! We recently attended the Diocese Youth Summit, and our confirmation class attended a retreat at The Pines Catholic Camp in Big Sandy, TX. We are attending two summer camps, Covecrest for high school and Hidden Lake for middle school. These two Catholic camps are located in Georgia and run by Lifeteen. We will also attend Steubenville Lone Star, a Catholic youth conference with over 3,000 youth. We have 115 youth from 6th-12th grade registered at St. Jude. During the school year, we meet weekly on Wednesday nights from 6-8 PM and have a bible study every Sunday morning from 9:45-10:45 AM. This summer, we will meet every other Wednesday with different summer activities.

If you know a youth in the Benton area, please invite them to join us!

ST. PIUS X

Amanda Nicholas Hall and Lindsey Krouse,Youth Ministers at St. Pius X

The youth group at any Catholic Church should teach critical principles of Christianity and give the youth a safe place to be Catholic youth. Mixing fun activities with learning oppor tunities is the best way to achieve this. This is precisely what happened to our Youth Group minister, Lindsey Krouse when she joined the Youth Group of St. Pius X 25 years ago.

Her fond memories of the love she felt, the lessons she learned, and the good times pushed the redevelopment of the youth group at St. Pius X. We just kicked off this new Youth Group in January and we have already been able to share lessons and have good times.

We look forward to watching these young people develop into solid Catholic adults and maybe even become successive youth group ministers. Here are a few things that our youth are saying about their experiences so far : "We get to design a hang-out room at our church. Our youth group is a good way to connect with friends other than at school." Harlan Guillory, 12 "My favorite thing about youth group is that I learn more about the Catholic Church and what it means to be Catholic while also having fun. I also enjoy going out and doing things with my church family and friends." Ella Hall, 15 “I like hanging out with my friends and making new ones.” Miller Lummus, 14

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ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

Marina Bishop,Youth Minister at St.Thomas Aquinas

Located in Ruston, the St. Thomas Aquinas Youth group, known as STAY, is in the midst of a rebuilding year. We have about 20 members from 6th to 12th grade, and we are looking forward to getting to know each other and growing stronger in faith and fun. The group star ted meeting over the summer with occasional get-togethers and par ties. At the beginning of the school year, we officially began weekly Wednesday meetings to share a meal, play games, listen to faith-based lessons, or work on service projects. Many STAY members helped collect, deliver, and sor t food for the CCA food drive event in November. During Advent, STAY wrapped gifts from our Angel tree and collected items for shoeboxes sent to a reservation in Arizona. Several silly St. Nick feast day games were played at a game night. After Christmas break, the group joined forces with other parish members to prepare and serve a gumbo lunch for about 200 people. This considerable success inspired plans for more joint activities at St. Thomas Aquinas. On the 2nd Friday of Lent, STAY members par ticipated in the readings for the Stations of the Cross for the parish.

The most recent Wednesday night STAY was held at Louisiana Tech Lambright Recreation Center for a bowling night. Looking ahead, Deacon Rober t Ransom will lead a tennis clinic this spring, and a former Scout leader in the parish will lead a hike.

Other activities include

pickleball, volleyball, indoor soccer, trivia, pictionary, and foursquare at the Luffey Center at St. Thomas Aquinas. We are for tunate to eat well each week, thanks to the generosity of our parishioners!

We've had a few guest speakers over the past year, and once a month, we have a lesson based on the Family of Faith program that our parish is using. This year focuses on the sacraments, so it is perfect that several STAY members are receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation this spring. We are thrilled to see the evidence that many of our youth have already begun living out their faith lives in parish life. We will once again provide volunteers for our Vacation Bible School this summer.

We look forward to more par ties, fun and games, bonding, and faith sharing this summer and welcoming the next group of incoming 6th graders into STAY.

ST. JOSEPH - SHREVEPORT

Elizabeth Kleinpeter and Maria Harrington,Youth Ministers at St. Joseph Shreveport

Kind. Inviting. Family. These are just some of the many words that I could use to describe the St. Joseph Youth Group. Everyone is genuinely happy to see each other and grow closer to Christ as a community every time we are together. The High School Youth Group meets every Sunday night and has an optional Thursday night study night where we work hard together so we can enjoy free time together as well. The Middle School meets every other Sunday for an hour and a half and makes every second count whether it is discussing how we can prepare for Lent or playing 9 square. If a member of the youth group has a performance or a game, you can look to the stands and see the rest of the group cheering and suppor ting them. As one former member says “the beauty of the friendships through SJYG– we suppor ted each other through everything from spor ts, performances, and tests to doubts, fears, and losses.” The high schoolers even make an appearance at the Middle 22

CATHOLIC CONNECTION

School Youth Group as small group leaders and mentors.

One such leader said “My sister currently attends MSYG and I always love it when we get to talk about everything later that day, or when she tells me about the friends she’s made because of it.” Both groups are lucky enough to experience summer camp which only strengthens the spiritual lessons we teach and friendships that are made.

This past year at camp the middle school students were praised by all other youth ministers who interacted with them and the high school students made friends with everyone they came across. Both St. Joseph Youth Ministers have been blessed with the privilege of being asked to be the confirmation sponsor to some of our youth kids, one of whom is currently going through OCIA to enter into the faith. Both of us at St. Joseph are proud to lead a group that allows for our youth to create an amazing safe space to grow in faith and family. We hope you can join us through prayer and in person!

ST. PASCHAL

Brandy Sadler,Youth Ministry Coordinator at St. Paschal

My name is Brandy Sadler, and I have been involved at St. Paschal Catholic Church off and on since my husband and I were married here in 2003, so this parish has a special place in my heart for many reasons. In my short time as the Youth Ministry Coordinator, I have been honored with the opportunity to share my love for the Catholic Church and help our parish's youth grow individually in their faith. I pray daily that I may serve the Lord with my every breath, and I am trying to do just that with our youth ministry program.

Every year, St. Paschal's Youth hosts a king cake fundraiser to raise money to support our upcoming youth retreats and fees for events like the Diocesan Youth Summit and Steubenville South. This is more than just a fundraiser for our parish. It is a time-honored tradition passed down over the past 30-plus years at St. Paschal Catholic Church.

Some of our parent helpers even took part in this fundraiser as teens in our youth group program, and some of our youth's grandparents helped with the very first king cake fundraiser! This event gives our youth a sense of tradition in our community, work ethic, and social skills that are

sometimes missing in modern day-to-day life. It is also a chance to educate the youth and our community on the origins of the king cake and Mardi Gras since contemporary society has skewed our understanding of this beautiful tradition.

With every king cake purchased, a brief summary is attached to the box explaining the history of the tradition.

The season for king cakes is only celebrated from the Feast of the Epiphany (Jan. 6th) through Mardi Gras Day (the Tuesday before Lent). We appreciate everyone who purchases a king cake from our youth and helps support our ministry.

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CRISTO REY: BOSSIER CITY Rev. Fidel Mondragon 318.221.0238 Oficina Domingo 1:00pm Lunes 7:00pm Sabado 6:00pm Coordinador Jacova Saucedo 318.773.8205

Las hermanas terminaron su curso de lengua y cultura a través de SEPI en Miami junto con el resto de las hermanas que forman parte del Programa de Intercambio de Hermanas EE.UU.-América Latina.

SAN PASCUAL: W. MONROE Rev. Luis Jost, OFM Domingo: 4:00pm Coordinadora: Lorena Chaparro 318.267.4018 SANTO TOMAS AQUINO: RUSTON Rev. Kevin Mues 318.225.2870 Oficina Domingo 1:30pm Coordinadora: Luz Martinez 318.224.0980 NUESTRA SEÑORA DEL PEPETUO SOCORRO: FARMERVILLE Rev. Luis Jost, OFM Sabados 7:00 pm Coordinadora: Paola Gonalez 817.801.3499 STA MARIA DE LOS PINOS: SHREVEPORT Rev. Mark Watson 318.687.5121 Oficina Domingo 12:30 am Coordinador: Sergio Seinos 318-393-2331

2024 Emaus equipo de hombres

SAGRADO CORAZON: OAK GROVE 318.428.2983 Oficina, Domingo 1:00pm Rev. John Bosco 318-402-1585 SAN JOHN THE BAPTIST, MANY Rev. Tim Hurd Oficina: 318-256-5680 primer domingo 5:00pm SAN PABLO: MINDEN Rev. Rigoberto Betancurt 2do Domingo 4:00pm Coordinadora: Dora Rodriguez 870-904-9137

Éxito del 7º retiro diocesano de mujeres de Emaús.

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SAN JOSE: MANSFIELD Rev. Rigoberto Betancurt 305 Jefferson Street Mansfield, LA 71052 3er Domingo 3:00pm

da generosamente en este sacramento.

Es la sinceridad en sus voces cuando le hablan a Él a través del ministro del sacramento, y es la mirada en sus rostros.

Estas cosas me llenan de la alegría de ser sacerdote y de ser obispo encargado de la fe creciente de nuestros jóvenes. ¡Qué bendición!

SI HAY UNA "ALEGRÍA" PARTICULAR QUE LLENA MI VIDA COMO OBISPO, SON ESOS MOMENTOS EN LOS QUE ESTOY EN CONTACTO CON LOS JÓVENES DE NUESTRA DIÓCESIS. Y

aunque el grupo más concentrado de jóvenes se produce en la concesión del Espíritu Santo en la Confirmación, estoy rodeado de nuestros benditos jóvenes con frecuencia. Cuando celebro la Misa en nuestras escuelas, cuando encuentro a los jóvenes con sus padres en la Misa dominical, y en ocasiones especiales como la "Cumbre de la Juventud" que acabamos de celebrar aquí en el Campus del Centro Católico el 2 de marzo.

Muchos de nuestros jóvenes, desde sexto de primaria hasta bachillerato, se reunieron para orar, reconciliarse, escuchar música, escuchar las presentaciones de los invitados y para la Eucaristía, tanto en la Misa como en la adoración.

La alegría que llenó mi corazón durante toda la Cumbre, además de celebrar la Misa, fue escuchar confesiones, algo que no tengo muchas oportunidades de hacer. La increíble alegría de mirar el rostro de nuestros jóvenes mientras derraman su amor por el Señor en el dolor por sus faltas, y al recibir una porción de Su misericordia es casi demasiado para asimilarlo - pero destacó la sinceridad de estos maravillosos jóvenes. Es un espectáculo, más que la experiencia visible de largas filas de nuestros jóvenes buscando con anhelo lo que sólo Él puede dar, y

Le sigue muy de cerca la visita a nuestras parroquias para conferir el Espíritu Santo en la Confirmación. Tengo la oportunidad de ver sus caras una vez más - y escuchar sus voces responder a la profesión de fe en Dios como Padre, Hijo y Espíritu Santo. Mi práctica es reunirme con todos los que van a ser confirmados 30 minutos antes de la Misa de Confirmación - y experimentar la alegría inminente del Espíritu Santo de Dios sobre ellos. Parecen y actúan preparados para ese momento sagrado que está a punto de llegar - y sus palabras son sinceras, y sus almas preparadas.

Hay otros encuentros maravillosos con nuestros jóvenes que a veces pasan desapercibidos - como cuando actúan como Monaguillos en la Misa - ¡y realizan tan bien los deberes sagrados en el Altar!

Podríamos ir más allá para dar testimonio de lo maravillosa que es su presencia entre nosotros, y animarlos a continuar su servicio en la Iglesia, elogiarles en sus tareas y darles las gracias por lo que son en este momento. A veces, la gente los mira y comenta: "son el futuro de la Iglesia". De hecho, NO son el futuro - SON la Iglesia, y una parte muy importante de lo que somos cuando nos reunimos para adorar al Señor. Tengo la bendición de llamarlos "los míos" y de rezar para que continúen en el camino que los lleva a Dios.

Por favor, únanse a mí en la celebración de nuestros jóvenes - y dando gracias a Dios que Él los ha enviado a nuestro camino.

Que Dios los bendiga en todos los sentidos.

APRIL 2024 25

Loyola College Prep

Jordan Harris, Loyola College Prep Director of Marketing and Communications

SPRING IS A BUSY TIME FOR LOYOLA STUDENTS, AND SEVERAL HAVE ACHIEVED NATIONAL, REGIONAL, AND STATE ACADEMIC HONORS.

We are proud of how hard our Flyers work in their studies and are excited to share their accomplishments.

We also have several events this spring and summer for our Alumni Association. Save the date for these events, which are an opportunity for Loyola alumni, parents, students, and friends to get together and raise money for our school.

To become a Finalist, the Semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, which provides information about the Semifinalist's academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.

A Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT or ACT scores that confirm the student's earlier performance on the qualifying test.

All winners of Merit Scholarship awards (Merit Scholar® designees) are chosen from the Finalist group based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments.

Regional Winners

Science

Fair

Loyola competed in the Regional Science Fair today with fantastic results! Loyola won second place overall.

2024 National Merit Scholarship Finalist

Congratulations to Reece Armagost, who was chosen as a Finalist in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program!

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Category winners include: Ravi Ahuja and Mark Henry 3rd place Garland Barrett and Savannah Smith - 2nd place, qualified for State Reese Jacobs - 3rd place Grace Shepherd and Anna Morris - 3rd place Carter Spohr and Ethan Armand 1st place, qualified for State Julia Braud - 2nd place, qualified for State

Julia Braud won a special award from the American Chemical Society. Ethan Armand and Carter Spohr won an award from STARBASE for Most Outstanding Project High School Engineering Division.

Literary District Rally Results

In February, our students competed in the Literary District Rally held in Natchitoches. 13 students won their division for their subject, and 23 students qualified for the state rally competition. Good luck, Flyers!

2024 District Rally Results | Division 3 Winners

Olivia Michelson, Algebra II Collier White, Calculus II Ethan Armand, English I Olivia Ostendorff, English III Kate Davis, Environmental Science Julia Braud, French I Rhett Craig, Geometry Mary Helen Burford, Government Brooke Bullock, Spanish I Ava Lafitte, Spanish III Fritze Olsan, U.S. History Hunter Yarbrough, World Geography Scott Cook, World History

Flyer Alumni Association Events: PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT Join us for an exhilarating weekend of competition and camaraderie at the first Flyer Pickleball Tournament, which will be held this April 19-21 at Southern Hills!

Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the game, all are welcome to participate in this exciting event.

Mark your calendars, gather your teammates, and prepare to serve up some excitement on the court.

Don't miss out on the action – register today and participate in the pickleball excitement.

FLYER GOLF CLASSIC Join us for the annual Flyer Golf Classic, where alumni, parents, and friends from the past decades come together for a great day of golf, food, drink, and Flyer fellowship!

Friday, June 14, 2024 The GolfClub at Stonebridge For more information, email jjmarshall@loyolaprep.org HOMECOMING 2024 Save the date for the Homecoming Football game on Friday, September 27, 2024! We plan to have another great alumni homecoming tailgate and cheer on the Flyers!

Reminder! If you are interested in coordinating a reunion, please contact Jessica Ray at 318-226-6287 for assistance.

Cathedral of St. John Berchmans School

Cassandra Key, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans School Director of Communications & Development WHAT AN INCREDIBLE KICKOFF TO THE SPRING AND SUMMER WE HAVE HAD HERE AT SJB! From Catholic Schools Week to

Holy Week to Confirmation Retreats, the opportunities to grow in and practice our faith are endless! We continue to live out our motto: Kindness is Practiced Here through our Caring is Sharing program, our daily Angelus Prayer encourages all of us to follow in the Blessed Mother's footsteps and follow God's will, and weekly Mass in which we experience God's grace and mercy poured out for us all.

As we wrap up the school year and prepare for summer, we can see just how far we've come and our incredible progress. We are so excited about the future here at SJB, and we are looking forward to a great summer and an even better 2024 – 2025 school year! While we prepare for our future, we must also look back to our past. SJB has been providing a quality Catholic education for 75 years! That's an incredible achievement, and to celebrate, we are planning and preparing for our 75th anniversary year. Over the summer, we will plan and organize big and small celebrations! Follow along on our social media channels for more information about this exciting time at SJB!

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Our Lady of Fatima School Stephanie Haney, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School, Principal OUR LADY OF FATIMA HOSTS AN ANNUAL DADDY/DAUGHTER AND A MOTHER/SON DANCE. This has become a tradition throughout the

years and gets our moms and dads really involved. This year's Daddy/Daughter dance was held at the end of February, and the theme was Ties and Tiaras.

The girls were dressed in the most beautiful dresses, and their fathers were dressed in their best suits. Each girl was given a rose and a tiara. Each guest was given a dessert sampler with a cupcake, a double doozie cookie, and a parfait. Daddies and daughters danced the night away. It was truly a scene from Cinderella.

Our Lady of Fatima School celebrated “Read the Week Away”! We had special guests throughout the week that came to read to our students. The St. Frederick High School drumline and some National Honor Society members came over to kick off the week with great music and read to the students. Each teacher reached out to community members for volunteers to read. We also had some young, new, active Alpha Phi Alpha members come and read to the students. It's great to have some of our community members giving back to the school.

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St. Jude Day School

Sharon McCabe, St. Jude Catholic Church, Pre-K3 Instructor I LOVE THIS QUOTE BY MOTHER TERESA: "THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS TO TRY AND INSPIRE PEOPLE SO THAT THEY CAN BE GREAT IN WHATEVER THEY WANT TO DO.”

Each day, the instructors at St. Jude Day School come to school to teach, encourage, and, most of all, to try to inspire the children daily with activities and lessons. It was easy this month to do just that, with the 100th day of school, Groundhog Day, Mardi Gras, Ash Wednesday, Valentine's Day, and Presidents Day. On February 8th, several students and their instructors ambled into school with the aid of a cane. They were almost unrecognizable, with gray hair and glasses as if they had aged overnight! Others used their creativity to wear 100 things or a t shirt with cute sayings on them, such as “we sparkled our way through 100 days.” It was a fun day of activities surrounding the number 100 to celebrate our 100th day.

For Mardi Gras, each class at St. Jude Day School and MDO paraded the parking lot at St. Jude Catholic Church, showing off their floats, throwing candy, beads, moon pies, cups, and other throws to the crowd of parents, grandparents, and St. Jude staff. After the parade, the children were surprised with a visit from local Krewe royalty.

The next day, the Lenten season began with a small Ash Wednesday service in the church with Father Kelby who administered ashes to the children and instructors. He talked about why the priest makes a cross on our foreheads with ashes and how it symbolizes the beginning of Lent and growing closer to Jesus. We have a bulletin board in our hallway where the children each put their name on a purple paper cross to remind us of God’s love for each one of us.

As we work to inspire every child daily, we gain inspiration from them in return. Every smile they show, the hugs they freely give, and the excitement when they proudly say," Look, I did it!" keeps us fueled to continue our ministry. Our reward is great when we can influence a child's life. So yes, I agree with Mother Teresa; it is the most important thing.

For information about St. Jude Day School and MDO, please contact Amanda Chapa at 318-746-2508 ext 201 or sjds@stjudebossier.org

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” Psalm 127:3

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St. Joseph Catholic School Polly Maciulski, St. Joseph Catholic School Religion Teacher

SJS Middle School Avoids Spring Fever To Excel Outside The Classroom Typically, when spring arrives, students struggle to focus on school and instead take their foot off the gas academically: the weather is better, the year is growing to a close, and they tend to have their heads in the clouds. This year, however, the Middle School students at St Joseph Catholic School have decided to surprise us.

A number of our eighth-grade students qualified for the state Social Studies Fair in Lake Charles on May 7: Harper Huckabay - 2nd place in Anthropology; Gracie Wilkes - 1st place in Anthropology; John Foret - 1st place in Louisiana History; McKenzie Meiki - 1st place in History; 1st place overall for Division II (Middle School, Grades 6-8), and Region I (Northwest Louisiana) overall winner. Also participating was Victoria Sangster, who placed 3rd in Anthropology but did not qualify for state.

Our seventh graders also had great success at the Regional Science Fair. Winners are as follows: 1st place in Cellular and Molecular Biology - Ella Claire Leckie 3rd place in Microbiology - Justin Copeland 2nd place in Plant Science - Ridley Marlar 1st place in Energy- Molly Pipkin 2nd place in Biomedical and Health Science - Alexis Pringle 2nd place in Physics and Astronomy- Mireille Redmond American Chemical Society Award - Emmy Geneux and Tyler Franks

RICOH Award - Molly Pipkin NOAA Award - Mireille Redmond Dr. Reddy’s Laboratory Award - Hudson Merrick and Braxton Holsapple Thermo Fisher Junior Innovators Challenge Awards - Molly Pipkin and Ella Claire Leckie DOD STEM Leadership Award - Ella Claire Leckie St. Joseph Catholic School won second place in the Overall Division.

The third annual sixth-grade Religion Fair was held this year with the theme "Saints of the Eucharist." Students presented information to judges about saints who had a special devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, and the judges were amazed by their knowledge. The winning projects were as follows: Honorable Mentions went to: Lenisse Perez - St. Thomas Aquinas; Kameron Willis - St. Justin Martyr; Kaitie Sugar Bruce - St. Pius X; Will Shepherd - St. Therese of Lisieux; JonRyan Thompson - St. Gregory the Great; Addison Payne - Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati; Corbin BonDurant - St. Catherine of Siena. Third place was awarded to Catherine Altimus - St. Gemma Galgani; second place to Ellie Bicol St. Tarcisius; and 1st place to Jackson Rodgers - St. Clare of Assisi.

Last but not least, after being named fifth and eighth-grade students of the year for the Diocese of Shreveport, John and Charles Foret advanced to the State Level for the Student of the Year competition.

Charles Foret has been named the Louisiana Catholic School Fifth Grade Student of the Year. We are so proud of his hard work and the outstanding example he is of what it means to be a St. Joseph Falcon.

We are so happy for these and all of our students for keeping their feet on the ground and pushing themselves to be their best.

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St. Frederick High School

Jill Wier, St. Frederick High School Director of Development

Warriors Attend “A Night to Shine Prom" THE TIM TEBOW FOUNDATION SPONSORS AN ANNUAL PROM NIGHT EXPERIENCE FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS CALLED “A NIGHT TO SHINE PROM.” Tim Tebow created the

foundation to demonstrate God's love for those with special needs and disabilities, aiming to reassure them that they were made in God's image and to provide the special needs community with a night of value and significance. This past month, forty Warriors attended the ninth-anniversary celebration at Louisiana Tech University. The event occurs in over 700 churches across approximately 56 countries, offering guests a red-carpet entrance, dinner, desserts, music, karaoke, limousine rides, dancing, and photos.

The celebration provides an unforgettable prom experience for people with special needs aged 14 years and older, including those with physical or psychological disabilities. The St. Frederick High School Warriors volunteered to be “buddies” that night for the guests.

The Warriors had dinner with their buddies, took photos, enjoyed limousine rides, and danced the night away.

The prom occurred from 6 to 9 pm, culminating with all participants being crowned prom king and queen. The event featured a balloon drop and a message from Tim Tebow displayed on a giant screen. This annual event brings joy and beautiful memories to the guests. It provides a meaningful and unforgettable experience for our Warriors.

APRIL 2024 31

Jesus The Good Shepherd School

Amy Fakhre, Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Development Office

BUILDING BRIDGES: Big Ram/Little Lamb Initiative FOSTERING CONNECTIONS ACROSS GRADE LEVELS IS AT THE HEART OF JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOOL. The Building Bridges Initiative

pairs older students (Big Rams) with younger students (Little Lambs) to cultivate friendships, mentorship, and leadership skills while teaching the values of empathy, teamwork, and support. JGS teachers, administration and students work together to initiate opportunities for leadership roles including, but not limited to, Library Helpers, Prayer Partners, and athletic mentorships. These meaningful bonds enrich our school culture and shape future leaders with compassionate hearts.Together, we're building a stronger, more connected, faith-filled community!

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Home, With Some Help From CCNLA

Joe Bulger, Interim Executive Director of Catholic Charities of North Louisiana WHEN LAUREN C. CAME TO CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF NORTH LOUISIANA FOR OUR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER’S CLASS, SHE ALREADY KNEW A FEW THINGS ABOUT CREDIT. Her grand-

mother made sure of that. A banker for over 30 years, Granny also opened up her home to Lauren and her other grandchildren for as long as they needed a place to stay. Now Lauren, a nursing student in her 20s with a child of her own, was ready for a house of her own, so Granny graciously brought her to Catholic Charities for the eighthour class. What Lauren didn’t know was that buying a car on credit could change her debt-to-income ratio and impact her ability to qualify for a mortgage. “I was literally in the process of buying a car.” she said. But when she heard that, she paid attention. She held off on buying the car and was able to purchase a home six months later and then buy a car after another six months.

Our First-Time Homebuyer’s Class is free and consists of four two-hour sessions over the course of two weeks.

Completion of the course allows prospective homeowners to take advantage of a variety of down payment assistance programs and mor tgage products designed for first-time homebuyers. If you know someone who could benefit from the class, please have them call us at 318-865-0200 to register for this month’s class.

CCNLA would not be able to provide HUD-certified Housing Counseling and our other Family Strengthening programs without the generous suppor t of our grantors and donors, including: Beaird Family Foundation, Catholic Charities USA, Grayson Foundation, Sisters of the Holy Spirit, Louisiana Bar Foundation, City of Bossier, Caddo Parish, First Methodist Church, The Westerman Foundation, Poindexter Foundation, Beth O’Brien Memorial Fund, Walmar t Foundation, Walmar t Stores, Red River Bank, Cadence Bank, Jonesboro State Bank, and United Way of Nor theast Louisiana.

Please join us Friday, April 12th for our Open House at 902 Olive Street in Shrevepor t between 10 AM and noon, and for Bingo on the Delta on Friday, April 19th at 6:00 PM at Jesus the Good Shepherd in Monroe. Fr. Peter Mangum will be our MC for what promises to be an evening of fun, fellowship, a catered dinner and eight chances to win a gift card to local Monroe restaurants, all to benefit the Monroe office of Catholic Charities of Nor th Louisiana. Tickets are $50 per person; Table Sponsorships are available and may be purchased at ccnla.org or by calling (318) 865-0200 ext.109.

Carl Piehl, one of our HUD-cer tified Housing Counselors, drove to her home to personally present her with a Lowe’s gift card, to congratulate her on the home purchase and help with the maintenance costs that come with homeownership.

She tells her friends that if you “save, get your credit right, and budget,” anybody can buy a home. In fact, another client of ours was recently able to buy a home on an income of only $943/month. She achieved a credit score of 800 and obtained $21,000 in down payment assistance after attending a homebuyer class taught by Yvonne Bartley, another of our HUD-cer tified counselors.

APRIL 2024 33

Around the diocese...

Ashley from St. Ann Church, Stonewall was the recipient of the Knights of Columbus Catholic Citizenship Essay Contest.We are very proud of her hard work and writing skills!

Divine Mercy Sunday

Julia Pettiette Doolin, Ph.D.

THE FIRST SUNDAY AFTER EASTER IS THE FEAST OF DIVINE MERCY. This year, that date falls on April 7,

2024. The devotion to the Divine Mercy began spreading throughout the world in the 1930s, and it is based upon private revelations to a young Polish nun we now know as St. Faustina. The message is not new but a reminder of what the Church has always taught through Scripture and tradition: God is merciful and forgiving, and we, too, must show mercy and forgiveness. But the message of the Divine Mercy devotion calls people to a deeper understanding that God's love is unlimited and available to everyone – especially the greatest sinners. In a decree dated May 23, 2000, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments stated that "throughout the world, the Second Sunday of Easter will receive the name Divine Mercy Sunday, a perennial invitation to the Christian world to face, with confidence in divine benevolence, the difficulties and trials that mankind will experience in the years to come." Taking the declaration of the feast day a step fur ther, the Apostolic Penitentiary announced on August 3, 2002, that in order "to ensure that the faithful would observe Divine Mercy Sunday with intense devotion, the Supreme Pontiff himself established that a plenary indulgence enrich this Sunday…so that the faithful might receive in great abundance the gift of the consolation of the Holy Spirit."

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Concerning the plenary indulgence associated with Divine Mercy Sunday, the usual conditions apply: sacramental confession (typically several days before or after the indulgenced act), Eucharistic communion, and prayer for the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff. The faithful are asked to gather in any church or chapel, in a spirit that is entirely detached from the affection for sin, even a venial sin, take part in the prayers and devotions held in honor of Divine Mercy, or who, in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament exposed or reserved in the tabernacle, recite the Our Father and the Creed, adding a devout prayer to the merciful Lord Jesus (e.g., "Jesus, I trust in you!")

This year, the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, located at 939 Jordan Street in Shrevepor t, will host a holy hour in honor of Divine Mercy Sunday. The holy hour will begin promptly at 2:30 PM and include the Chaplet of Divine Mercy and veneration of the Divine Mercy Image. The Reverend Raney Johnson, Administrator of the Cathedral, will preside. As time permits, the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available during and following the holy hour. Please join us for this beautiful oppor tunity to experience God's unfathomable mercy!

APRIL Is Child Abuse

Prevention Month Every April, Catholic parishes and schools across the United States participate in National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Effects of

ABUSE

When a child is abused, the effects are grave and can last a lifetime. Some of the most common effects of abuse include: • •

•

Loss of faith and trust in God. Post-traumatic stress disorder, psychological distress, and other indirect signs of trauma, such as anxiety, trouble sleeping, chronic stomach pain, and headaches.

A greater risk of developing behavioral problems, substance abuse, and suicide.

The sense of violation goes deep into a person’s psyche and feelings of anger, shame, hurt, and betrayal can build long after the abuse has taken place.

Steps to Prevent ABUSE Communicate with Your Children It is extremely important to communicate openly with your children. Let them know that they can talk to you about anything that bothers them. This will help you identify warning signs and grooming behaviors perpetrated by offenders before they escalate to abuse.

Educate Yourself and Your Children on Abuse Learning how to identify, prevent, and report abuse is key. Parents and guardians should empower their children to protect themselves from harm and to report abuse. Ask your diocesan safe environment coordinator or parish delegate about opportunities for safe environment training.

Identify and Report Warning Signs of Child Abusers Grooming behaviors are the actions abusers take to project the image that they are kind, generous, caring people, while their intent is to lure a minor into an inappropriate relationship. Offenders can be patient and may groom their victim, his or her family, or community for years.

Some abusers isolate a potential victim by giving him or her undue attention or lavish gifts, while others allow young people to participate in activities which their parents or guardians would not approve, such as watching pornography, drinking alcohol, using drugs, and excessive touching, such as wrestling and tickling.

Abusers also often try to isolate their victims from family or friends and encourage their victims to keep secrets from their parents or other caring adults.

Holding Offenders

ACCOUNTABLE To help hold offenders accountable, report all suspected abuse to local public authorities. You can also contact your local diocesan victim assistance coordinator to make a report and seek outreach for the abused.

In accordance with diocesan policy, when a single act of sexual abuse is admitted or established, the offender is to be removed permanently from ministry.

“Let it be clear that before these abominations the Church will spare no effort to do all that is necessary to bring to justice whosoever has committed such crimes . . . To those who abuse minors I would say this: convert and hand yourself over to human justice, and prepare for divine justice.”

—Pope Francis, Dec. 21, 2018

Copyright © 2019, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington DC. All rights reserved.

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SEMINARIAN BURSES Thanks To Our Recent Donors: (049) Anonymous (008) Charles & Beverly Bennett (049) Deborah Macy (037) Mr. & Mrs. Larry A. Miller Completed Burses: (001) Fr. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse #1 ($10000) (006) Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze Memorial Burse #1 ($10000) (010) Memory of Rita Scott from the John Scott Family Burse ($10000) (011) Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #1 ($10000) (012) Jack E. Caplis, Jr., Memorial Burse ($10000) (013) Mary Evans Caplis Burse ($10000) (014) Bob & Peggy Semmes Memorial Burse ($10000) (019) Margaret Glenn Memorial Burse ($10000) (020) Dr. James V. Ward Memorial Burse ($10000) (026) Sheryl Seal Sweeney Memorial Burse ($10000) (027) Rev. Richard Lombard Memorial Burse ($10000) (027) Rev. Richard Lombard Memorial Burse #2 ($10000) (031) Pearl Heck & Leona Boudreaux Memorial Burse ($10000) (033) Beryl K. & Joseph D. Ozenne Memorial Burse ($10000) (035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward Burse ($10000) (035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward Burse #2 ($10000) (036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse ($10000) (036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse #2 ($10000)

(040) Servant of God Fr. Isidore Armand Quémerais Burse ($10000) (041) Servant of God Fr. Jean Pierre Burse ($10000) (042) Servant of God Fr. Jean-Marie Biler Burse ($10000) (043) Servant of God Fr. Louis-Marie Gergaud Burse ($10000) (044) Servant of God Fr. François Le Vézouët Burse ($10000) (051) Reverend John Revord Campion Memorial Burse ($10000) Incomplete Burses: (001) Fr. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse #2 ($1350) (002) Joseph & Antoinette Bakowski Memorial Burse ($3150) (003) Sam R. Maranto Memorial Burse ($1650) (004) Kathryn Atherton Cook Memorial Burse ($350) (005) Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Burse ($1575) (006) Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze Memorial Burse #2 ($3832.12) (007) Dr. Carol Christopher Memorial Burse ($1200) (008) St. Jude Parish Burse ($7400) (009) St. John Berchmans Knights of Columbus Council 10728 Burse ($1550) (011) Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #2 ($5200) (015) Bishop’s Seminarian Burse ($4460) (016) Elaine Malloy Frantz Memorial Burse ($1000) (017) Msgr. George Martinez Knights of Columbus Council 1337 Burse ($8021.57) (018) Knights of St. Peter Claver Council 144 Burse ($1180)

(021)

Rev. Edmund "Larry" Niehoff Memorial Burse ($2000) (022) Rev. Blane O'Neil, OFM Memorial Burse ($1578) (023) Msgr. Edmund J. Moore Memorial Burse ($5100) (024) Rev. Joseph Puthupally Memorial Burse ($2150) (025) Kathleen Hightower Memorial Burse ($600) (028) Friends-n-Faith Burse ($750) (029) Rev. Kenneth Williams Memorial Burse ($200) (030) Ottis and Anne Krupa Littlejohn Memorial Burse ($7333.34) (032) Madeline and Joe Tiller Memorial Burse ($6100) (034) Joseph B. and Lucille Provenza Cordaro Burse ($7650) (035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward Burse #3 ($1120) (036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse #3 ($1040) (037) Manuel & Catherine Licciardi, and John & Beverly Miller Burse ($6000) (038) The Malone Family Burse ($250) (039) St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Knights of Columbus Council 9260 Burse ($750) (045) Sister Martinette Rivers Memorial Burse ($200) (046) Domestic Church Burse ($5000) (047) Troops of St. George Burse ($5000) (048) Rev. Joseph Kallookalam Burse ($5000) (049) Rev. Philip Michiels Burse ($350) (050) St. Joseph Shreveport Mary's Workers Burse ($6175)

The Diocesan Seminary Burse Program provides the faithful of North Louisiana the opportunity to invest in the education and formation of our seminarians into holy and effective priests to serve the Diocese of Shreveport.

Interested in contributing to or establishing a burse?

You can establish and name a burse with a donation of at least $250 or you can contribute any amount to a burse simply by designating its name when the contribution is made. Contributions may be mailed to the Office of Church Vocations, Diocese of Shreveport, 3500 Fairfield Avenue, Shreveport, LA 71104 or by scanning the QR Code here. Please make all checks payable to the Diocese of Shreveport. Be sure to note the name of the burse in the memo line. Burses are completed at $10,000.

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Ministries in Action: Diocesan Youth Summit Lucy Medvec, Diocesan Director of Development

AS I TRAVEL AROUND THE DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT, I GET MANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CATHOLIC SERVICE APPEAL. Specifically, “Where do my Appeal

donations go?” and “Why should I support the Appeal?” Well, if you had been at this year’s Diocesan Youth Summit (DYS) on March 2nd, you would have seen visible examples of how Appeal donations are suppor ting not just our Youth Ministry but also other diocesan ministries such as Vocations, Retired Priests, and Faith Formation.

Through the day, middle school and high school youth from 16 parishes gathered to sing, play, laugh, and worship. Our youth rarely get the oppor tunity to share their Catholic faith with students from other parishes, due to the size of our diocese, so anytime youth can come together, they gain the oppor tunity to grow and strengthen their faith. Donations to the Appeal suppor ted this second annual Diocesan Youth Summit, and overall, it was a great success.

However, it wasn't just the youth who were represented that day. Our seminarians were all in attendance. It was beautiful to

see them interact with students, parents, volunteers, and our priests. Donations to the Catholic Service Appeal cover the majority of the seminarians' budget for education and formation.

As par t of the DYS, attendees were able to go to confession.

Among the priests hearing confessions were two retired priests who continue to serve when needed. Suppor t for our retired and infirmed priests comes from your gifts to the Appeal.

In addition to receiving the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist, students were able to praise, worship, adore, sing, and play. At one point, groups sang along with the band, played games on the grass, and kicked around a soccer ball. All ages, all backgrounds, together, a community, united in faith—all because of your generosity.

Our goal for this year’s Catholic Service Appeal is 100% participation. Everyone in every parish. That means we need YOU. Wouldn't it be truly remarkable if we all came together and gave to the Appeal? Your gift, any amount, together a community, united in faith. Please make your donation today.

APRIL 2024 37

upcoming events APRIL 7, 3 PM The Arm of St. Jude the Apostle @ St. Jude Church Special Mass in honor of St. Jude at 3PM, veneration of the relic begins immediately after Mass. Veneration ends at 8 PM. For more information visit www.apostleoftheimpossible.com

APRIL 12, 10 AM - 12 PM Open House @ Catholic Charities of North Louisiana APRIL 13, 6 PM - 9 PM St. John Berchmans School Spring Gala Tickets can be purchased at sjbcathedralschool.org/gala

APRIL 19, 6 - 9 PM Bingo on the Delta for Catholic Charities of North Louisiana @ Jesus the Good Shepherd Tickets are $50/person and table sponsorships begin at $1000.

APRIL 19 - 21 Flyer Alumni Association Pickleball Tournament @ Southern Hills Park For more information contact alumni@loyolaprep.org

MAY 3, 8:30 AM Red Mass @ Holy Trinity Church JUNE 24-28 Camp Little Flower @ Scottsville Camp, Marshall, TX For more information contact camplittleflower@dioshpt.org

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT | 3500 Fairfield Ave. | Shreveport, LA 71104 | 318.868.4441

You are Called With a gift of: ☐ $50 ☐ $1000 ☐ $100 ☐ $1500 ☐ $250 ☐ $2000 ☐ $500 ☐ $5000 Other $ I/We will make our payment(s) ☐ One-time ☐ Monthly (thru December 2024)

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Member(s) of: ____ Name: Address: City:

Church,

City

Please list below any special intentions for which you would like prayer assistance.

_____ ____ ST: ___ Zip:

Spouse Name: Cell Phone: Email: For assistance or other inquiries, contact us at (318) 868-4441 x263 or bvice@dioshpt.org

(over)

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intention for the month of April FOR THE ROLE OF WOMEN Let us pray that the dignity and worth of women be recognized in every culture, and for an end to the discrimination they face in various parts of the world.

FEASTS & SOLEMNITIES

Where is Bishop Malone this month?

APRIL 10TH

Confirmation; Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, Shreveport; 6:00 PM

APRIL 13TH

Confirmation; St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Shreveport; 4:00 PM

APRIL 14TH

Confirmation; St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 8:30 AM

APRIL 17TH

Confirmation; St. Paschal Church, West Monroe; 6:00 PM

APRIL 21ST

Confirmation; St. Pius X Church, Shreveport; 11:00 AM

APRIL 24TH

Legislators’ Mass; St. Joseph Cathedral, Baton Rouge; 8:00 AM

APRIL 7 Sunday of Divine Mercy APRIL 8 The Annunciation Of The Lord APRIL 11 Saint Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr

APRIL 27TH

APRIL 13 Saint Martin I, Pope and Martyr

APRIL 28TH

APRIL 23 Saint George, Martyr; Saint Adalbert, Bishop and Martyr

Confirmation; Mary, Queen of Peace Church, Bossier City; 4:00 PM Confirmation; Christ the King Church, Bossier City; 4:00 PM

MAY 1ST

Confirmation; St. Matthew Church, Monroe; 6:00 PM

MAY 2ND

Red Mass Banquet; Petroleum Club of Shreveport; 6:30 PM

MAY 3RD

Red Mass; Holy Trinity Church, Shreveport; 9:00 AM

APRIL 24 Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen, Priest and Martyr APRIL 25 Saint Mark, Evangelist APRIL 29 Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church APRIL 30 Saint Pius V, Pope

APRIL 2024 39

CATHOLIC CONNECTION DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

•

Shreveport, LA 71104

Catholic Connection USPS 024-824 is published monthly except for July by the Diocese of Shreveport, 3500 Fairfield Ave., Shreveport, LA 71104. Periodicals Postage PAID at Shreveport, LA 71102. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Catholic Connection, 3500 Fairfield Ave, Shreveport, LA 71104.

PHOTO OF THE MONTH: Students from across the diocese during Eucharistic Adoration at Revive, the Diocesan Youth Summit.

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