CATHOLIC CONNECTION
CATHOLIC CONNECTION
PUBLISHER
Bishop Francis I. Malone
EDITOR
Sophia Romanski
CONTRIBUTORS
Mary Arcement Alexander
Delia Barr
Kylie Black
Sr. Anahi Borboa
Clayton Cobb
Karen Dill
Jordan Harris
Sr. AnnaMaria Iannetti
Fr. Raney Johnson
Cassandra Key Fr. Peter Mangum
Lucy Medvec
Laurie Nick
Brett Reggio
Dcn. Charles Thomas Fr. Kelby Tingle
Mike Van Vranken
Austin Young
JUNE 2025
Volume 34, Number 11
VOCATIONS & DISCERNMENT
The Pope's Prayer Intention For The Month Of June
THAT
THE WORLD MIGHT GROW IN COMPASSION Let us pray that each one of us might find consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus, and from his Heart, learn to have compassion in the world.
Cover photo: Sister Valentina Cervantes Torres of the Congregación de Misioneras del Sagrado Corazón de Jesus Ad-Gentes adoring the Blessed Sacrament at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Ruston, LA.
by: Sophia Romanski
SUBSCRIPTIONS & ADDRESS CHANGES
Blanca Vice bvice@dioshpt.org 318-868-4441
SUBMISSIONS
Sophia Romanski sromanski@dioshpt.org
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 Coordinator 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.
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.
JUNE SECOND COLLECTIONS
JUNE 28 & 29 - PETER'S PENCE The Peter’s Pence collection is a gesture of solidarity through which every member of the faithful can participate in the activity of the Pope as Pastor of the universal Church. The faithful’s offerings to the Holy Father through the Peter’s Pence Collection are destined to Church needs, to humanitarian initiatives and social promotion projects, as well as to the support of the Holy See.
Very Rev. Msgr. Matthew T. Long
Dcn. Charles Thomas, OFS
Karla Alvarez
Rev. Kevin Mues
Rosalba Quiroz
Photo
Matthew T. Long
Rothell Price
Gabriel Cisneros Campos Fr. Fidel Mondragón Fr. Peter Romanus Mallya
Fr. Philip Michiels, Msgr. Earl Provenza
of the Diocese of Shreveport
James Dominic Thekkemury Fr. Michael Thang’wa
Francis I. Malone
Kelby Tingle Fr. Jerry Daigle, Jr.
Jean Bosco Uwamungu, Fr. Joseph C. Howard, Jr.
Nicholas Duncan Fr. Charles Ssennyondo, Fr. Joseph Maddala Fr. Richard Norsworthy, Fr. Rigoberto Betancurt Cortés
Fr. Mark Franklin, Fr. Karl Daigle
Fr. James McLelland, Fr. Charles Glorioso
Fr. Adrian Fischer, Fr. Patrick Madden
Fr. Mark Watson
Fr. Kevin Mues Fr. Duane Trombetta Fr. Calistus Barasa Makokha
Fr. Do Minh Vu
Fr. Raney Johnson
& Solemnities
Malone's
Shreveport
Joseph Martina,
Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)
Memorial of St. Charles Lwanga and Compantions, martyrs
Fr. Timothy Hurd, Fr. James Moran
Fr. Joseph Ampatt
Fr. LaVerne “Pike” Thomas
Fr. Keith Garvin
Eastern Deanery Seminarian Basketball Game, St. Fredrick's High School Gymnasium, West Monroe, LA 11:00 AM
Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist
Confirmation; Christ the King Church, Bossier City, 4:00 PM
Confirmation; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, 11:00 AM
Diocesan Finance Council Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 12:00 PM
Memorial of St. Boniface, Bishop and martyr
Pentecost Sunda\y Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
Memorial of St. Barnabas, Apostle
Memorial of St. Anthony of Padua, priest and doctor of the Church
Memorial of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, religious
Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul
Fr. Peter Mangum
St. Francis Medical Center Board of Directors Meeting; Monroe; 11:30 AM
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Special Assembly; Coronado, Califotnia; June 15 - 21
Travel to Rome and Lourdes; June 23 - July 3
Living as God's Favorite: A Journey of Faith and Discernment Delia Barr bids us a fond farewell with a reflection on her fruitful ministry and a career built on faith.
12
Highlighting a Decade of Priestly Ordinations Fr. Raney Johnson invites us to celebrate the nine men ordained to the priesthood over the last ten years.
FROM THE EDITOR
A few years ago, I considered joining a convent. I visited the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama with my family. What struck me most was the Ave Maria Grotto, a sculpture garden containing the work of Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk of the nearby St. Bernard Abbey. His work features dozens of miniature sculptures of famous cities, churches, and monuments made of stone and concrete, as well as found materials like marbles, broken glass, and ceramic tiles.
I was an art student a few years into an undergraduate program, facing an uncertain future. It was a time in my life filled with more questions than answers. All at once, as I stood in a beautiful garden surrounded by a dedicated craftsman's life's work, I thought I found it.
18 Pope Leo XIV Celebrate the election of the 266th successor to St. Peter with first-hand accounts by Fr. Peter Mangum and Fr. Kelby Tingle!
I could join a convent, one that would allow me the space to create and dedicate my life in service to God. It seemed like a perfect compromise of everything I wanted, all wrapped up in a structured path straight to heaven.
I don't think it was even six months before I met Austin, the man I will marry next winter. It was like God whacked me on the head. Suddenly, I had the perfect partner in front of me. I saw that God had this plan for me all along: to be a wife — Austin's wife — and a mother someday. Sometimes, the right path is just waiting behind a couple of wrong ones. All you need to do to follow it is pray and trust that God will show you the way in His own time.
FROM THE BISHOP
Iguess I am stIll so overwhelmed at the outcome of PoPe leo XIv’s electIon, that I almost forgot my sorrow for Pope Francis’ death. Almost. Since his passing, in those frequent moments when Pope Francis’ does come to mind, I miss him. It’s not just the person of Pope Francis, but also a habit he had that endeared him to so many. You may have noticed it too: his posture when sitting before a group of people, whether numerous or few. He rested his right elbow on his chair’s arm, his lower arm vertical, and his hand touching his ear as if to say, “I’m listening to you.” This listening pose was emblematic of his papacy – he loved to listen, as if to take it all in before he responded. And it should come as no surprise that his call to synodality was an exhortation for us to listen – to God and to one another – to be slow to talk, after being attentive to what we hear.
I guess that is why I am so excited to see how our new Holy Father lives out his papacy – as one who listens
first, before he tells us what is on his mind?
Looking back, I think throughout my entire life the Lord has asked, even challenged, me to listen to His voice. The first time I heard it was during fourth grade, as an altar boy at Mass on a warm, summer Sunday. Kneeling during the consecration, I watched a very young priest elevate the Host and the Chalice and distinctly “heard” the Lord say to me, “One day I want you to do this… one day I want you to be my priest.” He did not then mention that He wanted me to be a bishop, but His message was clear nonetheless.
And He spoke to me again, though many years later, as I knelt in a pew where I attended seminary in Irving, Texas. It was as clear as that first time so long ago; there was just no mistaking His message to me. By then, I had learned to listen more attentively; perhaps, even more so because I was, at that moment, in
a time of discernment that had me questioning whether I was taking the right path. In retrospect, I am sure my uncertainty came from yielding to the temptation of “noise,” wherein I did listen, but to the wrong voices, which were neither as clear nor direct as His. But when the celebrant, that day at that seminary Mass, elevated the Host and the Chalice in the exact same way as the priest had in my youth, the clarity of His voice was unmistakable. Now, some 48 years later, as I think over our beloved Pope Francis’ example of listening, I find that vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life, and probably every vocation born of God, come to us when we hold our hand to our ear and ask Him to speak. Well, that’s how it happened for me, and that was Pope Francis’ message to us. So now, my message to you who read this: “Listen… He speaks.”
Creo que todavía estoy tan abrumado Por el resultado de la eleccIón del PaPa león XIv, que casi olvidé mi tristeza por la muerte del Papa Francisco. Casi. Desde su fallecimiento, en esos momentos frecuentes en que me viene a la mente el Papa Francisco, lo extraño. No es solo la persona del Papa Francisco, sino también un gesto que tenía y que lo hizo entrañable para tantos. Tal vez tú también lo notaste: su postura cuando se sentaba frente a un grupo de personas, fuera numeroso o pequeño. Apoyaba su codo derecho en el brazo de la silla, con el antebrazo en posición vertical y la mano tocando su oreja, como diciendo: “Te estoy escuchando.” Esta postura de escucha fue emblemática de su pontificado: le encantaba escuchar, como si quisiera absorberlo todo antes de responder. Y no debería sorprendernos que su llamado a la sinodalidad fuera una exhortación a escuchar: a Dios y a los demás, a hablar con lentitud después de haber prestado atención a lo que oímos.
Supongo que por eso estoy tan emocionado de ver cómo nuestro nuevo Santo Padre vivirá su pontificado: ¿será también alguien que primero escucha, antes de decirnos lo que piensa?
Mirando hacia atrás, creo que a lo largo de toda mi vida el Señor me ha
por el obispo
pedido, incluso desafiado, a escuchar Su voz. La primera vez que la oí fue en cuarto grado, siendo monaguillo en la Misa de un cálido domingo de verano. Arrodillado durante la consagración, observé cómo un sacerdote muy joven elevaba la Hostia y el Cáliz, y “escuché” claramente al Señor decirme: “Un día quiero que tú hagas esto… un día quiero que seas mi sacerdote.” En ese momento no mencionó que quería que yo fuera obispo, pero su mensaje fue claro de todos modos.
Y me habló de nuevo, muchos años después, mientras me arrodillaba en una banca del seminario al que asistía en Irving, Texas. Fue tan claro como aquella primera vez, tantos años atrás; no había manera de malinterpretar Su mensaje para mí. Para entonces, había aprendido a escuchar con más atención; quizás aún más porque en ese momento me encontraba en un proceso de discernimiento, cuestionándome si estaba siguiendo el camino correcto. En retrospectiva, estoy seguro de que mi incertidumbre provenía de haber cedido a la tentación del “ruido,” donde sí escuchaba, pero a las voces equivocadas, que no eran ni tan claras ni tan directas
como la Suya. Pero cuando el celebrante, aquel día en la Misa del seminario, elevó la Hostia y el Cáliz exactamente igual que el sacerdote de mi infancia, la claridad de Su voz fue inconfundible. Ahora, unos 48 años después, al reflexionar sobre el ejemplo del Papa Francisco de saber escuchar, encuentro que las vocaciones al sacerdocio y a la vida consagrada, y probablemente toda vocación nacida de Dios, llegan a nosotros cuando llevamos la mano al oído y le pedimos que hable. Bueno, así fue como sucedió conmigo, y ese fue el mensaje del Papa Francisco para nosotros. Así que ahora, mi mensaje para ti que lees esto: “Escucha… Él habla.”
Para obtener más información sobre las oportunidades del Ministerio Multicultural en la Diócesis de Shreveport y para encontrar nuestros horarios y lugares de misa en español, por favor escanee el código aquí.
Finishing the Race
I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award me on that day, and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his presence. " "
2 Timothy 4:7-8
Greetings from Saint Meinrad Seminary! We're finishing up the semester’s last few days over here. It always feels nice to wrap up a semester and finish strong. That feeling when finishing a final exam or writing the last sentence of a research paper is of both relief and accomplishment. In these recent weeks, I’ve thought of Pope Francis and how he finished the race well; to the last day of his life, he ministered to and blessed the people. He has truly inspired me to persevere in love and service, to the very end. But we know, when we die, it is not the end – rather, a new beginning in eternal life.
I seem like a world traveler lately, having written about my trips to both Guatemala and Rome. Well, I went to Rome again! I planned to attend Blessed Carlo Acutis’ canonization on April 27, so we’d be calling him Saint Carlo Acutis now! I really wanted to be there to witness the canonization of the first millennial saint, who I look up to as a model for a holy and simple life rooted in the Person of Jesus and Jesus in the Eucharist. It turned out that the trip did not include a canonization but rather the funeral of Pope Francis. I was extremely blessed to be able to attend his funeral, along with many other people who filled St. Peter’s Square.
Interestingly enough, as Blessed Carlo Acutis was suffering and dying, he offered his sufferings as a prayer for the Pope and the Church. He said to his mom:
I offer all of my suffering to the Lord, for the Pope and for the Church, in order not to go to purgatory but to go straight to heaven.
And wouldn’t you know, on what would have been a special day for Blessed Carlo and the Church, it seemed he wanted all those attending his canonization to be there instead for Pope Francis on his funeral day. This tells me
that it is so important for us to pray for our Pope, Bishop, and all those priests and deacons. Even after Pope Francis died, he continued to bring people together through his funeral. Numerous world dignitaries attended, including our president of the United States, prompting many public reflections regarding offering each other the sign of peace during Mass. How fitting, and what a powerful image: these world dignitaries offering each other the sign of peace in the context of Holy Mass! And not only world dignitaries were there, but floods of people from all over the world, including many youth who had planned to witness the canonization of Blessed Carlo.
As we reflect on vocations, we can see Pope Francis was a great example. He went to the end. He ran through the finish line. It must have been love that propelled him. So, whatever vocation God is calling us to, may love be the driving force: love of God and love of neighbor. Funny enough, as I write this, I received the news that white smoke is coming from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel! I don’t know who the new Pope is, but by the time you read this, we all will know. The Church is alive and well.
Austin Young is a seminarian for the Diocese of Shreveport
Living as God's Favorite:
A Journey of Faith and Discernment
If you ’ ve ever met me, you ’ ve lIkely heard me say, “I’m god’s favorIte.” I’m just as quIck to remInd you, “you are god’s favorIte too!” thIs Isn ’ t just a catchy Phrase for me – It ’ s a deep conviction, born from a profound realization that God’s love is both personal and boundless.
I felt the steady warmth of God’s love for much of my life, but it was only later that I truly grasped its depth. I still remember sitting in the talk when the speaker said, “Did you know you are God’s favorite?” It struck me! And in that moment, everything clicked: God delights in me. He knows me, listens to me, and has never left me alone – the Holy Spirit walks with me, inviting me to cooperate with Him.
A passage in Lisa Brenninkmeyer’s daily devotional, "Be Still," affirmed this understanding further: Amen to that!
“You are delightful to God. Everything about you – the quirky things, your talents, your weaknesses, your physical features, your emotions – He loves it all.”
And this one truly hit home:
“God the Father is completely captivated by you. He loves you. When His eyes scan the crowd and catch sight of you, He lights up with pride and says, ‘There’s my girl.’”
Amen, Amen!
This month’s theme for the Catholic Connection is Discernment and Vocations – a fitting topic as I reflect on my own path. Discernment, in the Christian sense, means seeking spiritual guidance without judgment, striving to align our hearts with God’s will.
I’ll admit that when I was young I didn’t think much about discernment. I had a plan, and it never crossed my mind to prayerfully ask God if it matched His plan for me. I love how Bishop Malone often shares this simple but powerful prayer with Confirmation candidates: “God, whatever you want for me, that is what I want for myself.”
I wish I had known that prayer earlier. Yet, looking back, I believe my desire for marriage and motherhood as my vocation was indeed God’s whisper to my heart.
I married the man God chose for me – Tom. I knew after our first date that he was the one, without a shred of doubt. There was no lengthy discernment; it was as if God placed him in my path, knowing I needed a partner like him. We’ve been married for 39 years, raising our two wonderful sons, Matthew and Michael, and moving through eight cities –always following God’s quiet nudge in our lives.
Our latest move, to Shreveport, came not for Tom’s job, as it usually had, but for mine – to serve the Diocese of Shreveport. This experience, working for this diocese, has been a highlight of my work in ministry. Reaching out and serving throughout the diocese has been extremely fulfilling. Tom and I traveling to all the Confirmation Masses with Bishop Malone has been particularly special. And visiting almost every church in the diocese has been awesome , allowing me to meet DREs where they minister and to meet all the pastors.
My daily rhythm in these years of ministry has included daily Mass, weekly Eucharistic Adoration, and a deep personal prayer life – all vital for this journey. It has been clear that my vocation to share the Good News requires that I stay close to the Lord and the sacraments. I encourage our DRE’s to do the same – we all pray for one another: on Mondays for those in the Southern Deanery, Wednesdays for the Eastern Deanery, and Fridays for the Western Deanery. I am blessed on those days to recall each DRE in my mind’s eye, seeing their parish churches and lifting them up in prayer. I know they feel the prayers of their fellow DREs, and I feel theirs for me.
But now, my husband and I have discerned a new chapter should begin. Tom recently retired after 44 years, and I’m retiring from my role at the Diocese in June. After much prayer, we realized that now is our time to embrace a new season.
We’re moving to Colorado Springs this June – a place of crisp mountain air, breathtaking views, and, I hope, a fresh spiritual horizon. We look forward to finding a new parish home, returning to the simplicity of being “people in the pew,” and discovering what God has planned for us next. We are so grateful for our time here in the Diocese of Shreveport – we encountered truly holy people filled with the Holy Spirit. We will never forget all your kindness, and we will keep you in our prayers.
As we step into this new season, I hold tight to the Lord’s promise in Isaiah (40:31):
“They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.”
Delia Barr is the Director of Faith Formation for the Diocese of Shreveport.
Reflections from New Catholics featuring the OCIA Class of '25
Cerene Stone - Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish, Monroe
on the nIght of the easter vIgIl, I was both excited and very nervous. I’ve never liked being the center of attention, so I was anxious about being in front of the congregation and worried I might mess something up. But I also knew how deeply I wanted to soak in every moment of this night that I had waited so long for. Each time my nerves crept in, I could feel the Holy Spirit gently call me back, reminding me why I was there.
Being baptized was powerful, and receiving the Eucharist for the first time stirred something new in me. It wasn’t a dramatic moment, but it stirred a hunger that brought me back to Easter Mass the next morning and again to weekday Mass just that following week. I'm so thankful for the Catholic Church, everything that it has done for me, and for this journey home.
Brianna Gosdin - Holy Trinity Parish, Shreveport walkIng
time during the Easter Vigil was absolutely beautiful. After taking OCIA classes, I’ve never felt more prepared to devote my life to Christ and spread the Word for others to hear. It was an amazing night and couldn’t have been more perfect.
“On the night of the Easter Vigil I was full of excitement. Though Catholic they traveled from Texas to support me. The Easter Vigil and so amazing. I feel so blessed to have been con rmed into the occasion of celebration of our Lord’s Resurrection. It was my First Catholic Church and I felt a trembling sensation after receiving Our physically feel a di erence. My nephew shared he especially enjoyed procession. Both he and his sister imagined what they would like become baptized. My brother in law, even expressed interest in Catholic faith. I had been in prayer about the evening for some time exceeded my every hope for the night. It was a truly a special and forget. I am so thankful to Father Duane, Greg, Christine and Dena patience and support of my journey.”
May God Bless You, Alicia Northcutt
Alicia Northcutt - Holy Trinity Parish,
Highlighting a Decade of Priestly
Priestly Ordinations
As vocatIons dIrector for the dIocese of shrevePort, I thInk It Is ImPortant to hIghlIght our diocese’s success in vocations to the priesthood: nine ordinations over the past ten years. We know this is due to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and many men’s openness to the priesthood . Also key to this success was the hard work of the successive, dedicated diocesan Vocations Directors, including Father David Richter, Monsignor Matthew Long, Father Jerry Daigle, and Father Peter Mangum.
The nine ordained men have already benefited the diocese: seven are assigned at one or multiple parishes as either pastors or parochial administrators, together leading ten (over a third) of the diocese’s 27 parishes. Most received these roles earlier than in the past because of the priesthood shortage, impacted in part by priests retiring. It is no understatement to say our parishes’ pastoral leadership situation could be more dire had the ordination rate since 2014 not been so positive. This past decade shows us that rather than needing numerous ordinations annually to sustain our diocese, continual ordinations over the years provide a sustainable rate of priestly vocations .
For many men discerning this vocation, the most difficult part is making that final decision to join the seminary. I frequently share that numerous young men in our diocese are considering the priesthood, and it is important to encourage them to consider discerning further from within the seminary, where they are
helped to deepen their understanding of God’s call regarding the diocesan priesthood.
There will be a drought in ordinations over the next few years; however, if the diocese receives one or two seminarians each year, we could very well witness in the late 2020’s and early 2030’s a repeat of the last ten years. This would benefit our diocese in the future and help prepare for additional pastors’ retirements. Following a former diocesan Vocations Director’s example, I have placed my work as Vocations Director under the patronage of the Blessed Mother, specifically under her title as Our Lady of Guadalupe. I have also placed this great work under the patronage of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and Padre Pio. I know that, through the inspiration of these two great saints and our Blessed Mother, God will provide priestly vocations for our diocese. For our part, we all need to pray fervently that God will send us many holy priests to serve in our diocese — may this be the prayer of the whole diocese! Through the power of the Holy Spirit, it is possible.
Rev. Raney Johnson is the rector of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, and the Diocesan Vocations Director.
To Seek Union with God
From as early as I can remember, I have had a great desIre to know, love, and serve our lord wIth my whole heart. I still remember my mother teaching me those words and hand motions to go along with them. As I grew older, I found myself often asking the Lord, “How are You calling me to know You more, to love You more, and to serve You more today?” Asking that question led me to begin my journey to become a religious sister. I feel God is inviting me to know, love, and serve Him as a religious sister.
I first felt called to be a religious sister during seventh grade. While preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation, I studied the lives of the Saints and was drawn to the religious
life. My desire to be a religious sister has been with me ever since.
So, I entered the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters of Holy Angels Convent in Jonesboro, Arkansas in August 2024. The Benedictine way of life drew me because a person becomes a Benedictine to seek union with God. There is nothing else I would rather do with my life than to seek union with God. I am currently savoring every moment of being a postulant, one of the early stages of religious life. The word “postulant” comes from the word “postulate,” which means “to ask.” This year of postulancy is a time when I ask the Lord if it is His desire for me to be an Olivetan Benedictine Sister.
Please keep me in your prayers as I discern my vocation. As the former Director of Youth Ministry for the Diocese of Shreveport, know of my prayers for all of you, especially all of you young people in the Diocese. May God be present to us all.
Laurie Nick is a postulant at the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters of Holy Angels Convent in Jonesboro, AR.
The Master Sculptor
“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
- Matthew 4:19
God made many young men to be PrIests, but they mIght not even be catholIc or recognIze god at all right now. To zoom out a bit, Christ calls all of us to Him at every moment. In order for my vocational discernment to start, Christ called me to discern Him. I remember attending a day retreat and having my heart lit on fire by the Holy Spirit. I received a zeal that course corrected my soul from pursuing myself to pursuing Christ. All I wanted to do was be the best Christian I could. The focus of my life fell away from video games, YouTube, and isolation.
I began attending Bible studies, going to daily Mass, and praying the Rosary. I became far happier surrounding myself with people that loved Christ and tried to follow Him. It is as if I were a pile of rocks that Christ took and arranged into a Master’s sculpture . My outlook on life changed for the better. I began to see myself as a Christian first, rather than identifying myself through my job, political party, or family. He then invited me to look at my life and how I am supposed to serve Him in the future, possibly for the rest of my time here on earth; it was in the priesthood. It became obvious from my desires and gifts that seminary was the only tunnel with a light at the end. Nothing else seemed attractive. I knew that if I did not try seminary, I would find myself
sitting in the pews, looking up at the altar, and asking myself “What if?” That is no way to live. To anyone who is still discerning their permanent vocation, be patient. Let Him turn you into an eye-catching sculpture.
Brett Reggio is a seminarian for the Diocese of Shreveport.
Sisters giving each of us a brown wood cross. As I held the cross in my hands, I responded to Him, “I know that you are calling me. I don’t know what my next step is, but I entrust myself to you.”
ITo Love and Serve God showed me a new way to love and serve.
went through an eXIstentIal crIsIs when I was 18 years old. It was that age when young PeoPle consIder where they are going in life, so I asked myself what I wanted. What direction was I going to take? I was certain I had everything needed to be successful, but there was a gaping hole inside myself. Little by little, everything around me that should have made me happy ceased to be interesting . Instead, it all left me feeling empty. Active in my local parish and participating in ministries and activities, I still felt empty. This was difficult to understand! Then, a friend invited me to participate in a choir competition of vocation-related songs, and I accepted – that was my first exposure to religious life. What struck me most was the religious sisters’ radiant happiness!!
From that encounter came an invitation to visit the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament and serve with them in their mission during Holy Week. I became very excited as I prepared for the experience. I had to leave work to attend the mission, and I went with little money; but I was open spiritually to whatever the Lord had in store for me.
It was during that week that I first heard the Lord’s call, and all the emptiness dissipated: I found in the mission the simplicity of God. God showed me a new way to love and serve. It was odd, because I went to serve them; but they served me more, by teaching me about God’s love and the solidarity that comes from living as His disciples.
I said “yes” to God on Holy Saturday. We all stood outside the church that evening, lighting the fire to begin the Easter Vigil Mass. I remember the
When I returned from the mission, I was different. My family noticed I spent more time at church and didn’t understand when I eventually expressed my desire to become a religious sister. They were confused: why did I want to give up school, work, everything that the world deems successful? Luke 9:23-25 accompanied me through my discernment:
“If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?”
It was insightful! Everything the world and my family offered would lead to my gaining the world… but losing myself and the person God created me to be.
During discernment, my pastor said I needed to experience more congregations and styles of religious life. Meeting the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows at work one day, I asked where they lived and could I visit them sometime, then later returned regularly when I didn’t have work. After spending time with these sisters, I knew they were the right congregation for me; this is where God was calling me to, in large part, through their diversity of ministries, including missions beyond Mexico.
Since that first mission with the Missionary Sisters so many years ago, I’ve been drawn to missionary work. With the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows, that desire has been fostered and fulfilled, leading to service here in the United States. I am grateful that I can give my life
to Jesus through the missions of our religious family. Every day as I wake, I dream with Jesus of sharing God’s love with others through living the simplicity of the Gospel. And I am able to do so, through the charism that God first gave our Foundress, Blessed Elisabetta Renzi. Like her, I am grateful that God called me to this life.
Sr. Anahi Martinez Borboa is one of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows in Shreveport, LA
Support Vocations in the Diocese of Shreveport by giving to the 2025 Catholic Service Appeal!
Discerning My Religious Vocation
When I “ vocat
bIble
There is the call of young Samuel (1 Sam 3, 1-10), who heard God calling his name but did not know it was God. His mentor, Eli, understood and instructed Samuel to answer: “Speak Lord, your servant is listening.” Samuel listened to his mentor, and God helped him become a great prophet.
I learned that listening is key to understanding one’s vocation. In prayer, I often said, “Speak Lord, I am listening,” not just to hear words, but to recognize God’s voice in my heart through my feelings, emotions and thoughts. While listening to missionaries from Africa describe children’s needs there, my heart raced for wanting to go and help. That desire and dream returned often during prayer, filling my soul and imagination with warmth and excitement.
But listening also means taking steps. For me, this involved participating in retreats, reading about missionaries and paying attention to the lives of religious sisters I met. Listening includes making concrete choices: sharing my desire with my mother and sisters, the religious who taught me catechism and my mother’s friends in her village.
Listening was accepting the invitation to join a group of young women in living with a specific religious family (order). Although young, I felt God leading me. I was happy and enjoyed learning more about prayers, Jesus and Mary and the religious family I had joined. Studying, playing and working at various chores with fifteen girls had moments of struggles; however, it never discouraged me. Some girls returned home, but I knew this family was my place.
With the children at Renzi Education and Art Center in Shreveport, after school program, 1998
At this time of my life, the second
At New Orleans Cathedral, during the visit to the USA of Pope John Paul II, meeting with the religious: OLS sisters and novices'
Sr. AnnaMaria on her Enterance to the OLS Novitiate, 1970, by the Bl. Elisabetta Renzi monument.
At New Orleans Cathedral, during the visit to the USA of St. Pope John Paul II, meeting with the religious OLS sisters and novitiates.
Sr. AnnaMaria in Rome during a summer visit to the OLS Convent in Viale Vaticano with her novitiate formator, Sr. Fatima Selva, 1987.
Pope Leo XIV
Help us, one and all, to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people. always at peace.
Pope Leo XIV made hIstory on may 8, 2025, by becomIng the fIrst man from north amerIca to be eLected bIshop of rome. fr. peter mangum and fr. KeLby tIngLe share theIr eXperIences as fIrsthand spectators to thIs monumentaL eVent.
how fortunate I was to be In rome durIng the PaPal conclave! I had the joy of travelIng wIth my nePhew — hIs fIrst tIme In euroPe — and we were In st. Peter’s square with Fr. Kelby Tingle when we saw the black smoke rise not once, but twice. Then came the white smoke, and the bells rang out!
Surrounded by Catholics from all over the world, we waited together in joy to hear Habemus Papam. We didn’t yet know who—but we knew the Church had a new shepherd. I was thrilled to share video updates back home throughout the process and then as Cardinal Robert Prevost became Pope Leo XIV. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience—joyful, historic, faith-filled, and profoundly uniting for the whole Church.
Like everyone I met in Rome, I am filled with such joy and hope as he is already guiding us toward unity and love! As his motto says: In the one Christ, we are one!
Very Rev. Peter Mangum is the pastor of Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish in Monroe, LA, and the dean of the Eastern Deanery of the Diocese of Shreveoprt.
on a brIght and unforgettable day In vatIcan cIty, I was gIven a gIft that I wIll carry In my heart forever: the blessIng of standIng In saInt Peter’s square durIng the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV.
It was an extraordinary moment—one I could never have anticipated when I first planned my pilgrimage. As I stood among thousands of men and women from every corner of the world, we were united by a single hope: to witness the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the choosing of our new Pontiff. In a sea of prayer, flags, rosaries, and hymns, we looked to the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, watching and waiting.
Then, on the fourth ballot, it happened—white smoke. Jubilant shouts rang out across the square. Music came from bands processing toward the basilica. And then, the great bells of Saint Peter’s tolled with majestic force, declaring to the world: Habemus Papam!—“We have a Pope!”
The moment grew even more powerful as the Cardinal stepped onto the balcony and announced the name: Robert Francis Prevost, who had taken the name Leo XIV. It was a moment of pure excitement and reverence.
In this Jubilee Year, a time already rich with grace and renewal, the election of Pope Leo XIV feels especially providential. I carry great hope that under his leadership, the Church will be guided in beautiful and faithful directions—especially toward that eternal goal we all share: Heaven.
Rev. Kelby Tingle is the administrator of St. Patrick Parish, Lake Providence, and Sacred Heart Parish, Oak Grove, LA.
Pope Leo XIV's first public appearance on the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, May 8, 2025.
©CNS/Lola Gomez
What Will Your Story Be?
In my mInIstry as a deacon In the dIocese of shrevePort, I’m sometImes asked “What is your story? What made you decide to become a deacon?” My story involved prayer, discernment, talking with others, and discussions with my wife and family, and I discovered people who were praying I’d choose a particular vocation they felt suited me . Everybody’s story is different, and in the end, the decision to enter a ministry or vocation is between you and God, as He reveals it through your discernment. My discernment ended with my ordination as a deacon in the Diocese of Shreveport. Now, my wife, Nadalie, and I, are yoked together with Christ serving God’s people.
We all have gifts and talents given to us by the Lord, whether we’re in or are discerning a religious vocation (as a clergy, a religious or in consecrated life) or a vocation as a single or married lay person. Some couples live their marital vocation by showing God’s love to others through their love for each other. Many lay people serve the poor, visit the sick, or serve the underprivileged through an organization or on their own. The key is to remember that we are all called by God to serve our fellow man in some way.
I pray for you who are discerning a vocation that you are praying and attending Eucharistic adoration in a parish near you. Listen to what the Father and the Son have to say to you through the Holy Spirit. Each day of our lives spent out in this world, we see the face of Jesus in the poor, the hungry, the homeless, those suffering spiritually, and our youth who are hungry for someone to help them grow in their faith. What will be your story when it comes to serving the Lord? Is God calling you to a vocation? And will you answer His call?
Deacon Charles Thomas is a permanent deacon at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Shreveport, LA, and a member of the Editorial Board of the Catholic Connection.
We're All In This Together
Ihad the good fortune two years ago to attend the PrIestly ordInatIons of fr. gabrIel cIsneros camPos and fr. kelby tIngle. It was the fIrst ordInatIon ceremony I’d attended, but it will not be my last. The joy, enthusiasm, and love felt by everyone that day made an experience I will never forget. Together as Catholics, we were united in spirit for these two men and our Church. We were all together as one.
On May 8, we were all together again, waiting for the announcement of our new Holy Father. We may not have been in the same room, but as we listened to the radio or watched our computer, phone, or television, and we prayed together as a Church – not just locally, but with Catholics worldwide. When Pope Leo XIV stepped out onto the balcony, we rejoiced together.
So, how do these two events relate to the Catholic Service Appeal? Although not directly related, they exemplify our faith uniting us both locally and around the world. And when we further unite in service, in prayer, and by sharing our gifts, we can do great things. Together.
As I write this article, 1,872 donors have contributed over $1,000,000 to the Catholic Service Appeal. This is an amazing milestone as we work toward our 2025 Appeal goal of $1,300,000, whish funds ministries that benefit over 10,000 Catholic families in our diocese This important financial goal, however, is only part of the Appeal and its ministries’ success: the 50% participation goal for each parish is crucial
Right now, only 19% of households in our diocese have given to the Appeal. Together, we can do better as a faith community. If everyone gave a gift of any amount, we would together support our seminarians and retired priests; subsidize some tuition; enhance the faith of our youth, college students, and young adults; and fund the needs of those less fortunate.
If you already supported the 2025 Catholic Service Appeal – Thank You ! For you who are still discerning your contribution, you can give online through the QR code or pledge form included in this magazine – and you’ll be united with your fellow Catholics in supporting our ministries.
We’re all in this together!
Lucy Medvec is the Director of Development and Stewardship for the Diocese of Shreveport.
Who... Me??
Ilove usIng sPIrItual art to InsPIre my Prayer – a PractIce called visio divina In latIn a few years ago, I discovered Caravaggio’s painting, “The Calling of St. Matthew,” which hangs in the Roman church of San Luigi dei Francesi. Pope Francis sometimes prayed before this image when he attended Masses in Rome as Jorge Bergoglio, Bishop of Buenos Aires. He was drawn to it, he said, because it spoke to him of his own call to the priesthood, which he first felt at 17 years old on St. Matthew’s feast day.
Caravaggio portrayed the gospel scene with interesting details. The young Levi (Matthew) sits at the counting table, which is surrounded by four men who seem to be Roman officials. Jesus stands at the right margin, accompanied by, perhaps, Peter, as they both point directly at Matthew. The Romans appear surprised and a little doubtful. The bearded one could be saying, “You mean … him?!” Perhaps, they are astonished that Jesus, a Jew, chooses a man whom others consider an enemy, a traitor to their faith. Their skepticism is obvious.
Matthew hangs his head, seated at the far end of the table from Jesus. Is he humbled? Ashamed? Or maybe, gazing at the money he collected, he considers in this moment that he is being called to leave behind his former activities and rise to a higher station in life. He is, perhaps, bowed down by the weight of the moment. The gospel account of this pivotal event in Matthew’s life is succinct: Jesus invites; Matthew gets up and follows (Mt. 9:9). Then, Matthew hosts a dinner party attended by Jesus, His disciples, and a motley crew of sinners. The Pharisees quickly go into judgment mode. “Why does your teacher eat with such people?” they ask the attendees. Hearing their question, Jesus quickly replies that He came to call not the respectable people but our world’s outcasts.
For me, the painting illustrates what we all experience on some level when we encounter the living Jesus in the gospels, the Eucharist, and the world around us. He calls each one of us, daily, to follow Him; yet, like St. Matthew in the painting, I often hesitate or even balk. “Who, me??? Lord, you want ME to do something for You? A sinner like myself? I am not worthy! I’m not talented enough, smart enough, holy enough that You should enter under my roof – much less call me to discipleship!” And yet, His finger still points directly at me.
I think such thoughts and feelings occur when each of us is called to his or her vocation – the priesthood, diaconate, other religious life, holy matrimony, or other lay, single Christian life. His call is compelling, and He doesn’t give up on us if we don’t immediately yield to it. His words are consoling and encouraging, “The yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light" (Mt. 11: 30). He assures us that, indeed, He has work for us to do, but He will never abandon us if we are willing to carry it out. My strength is made perfect in your weakness (2 Cor. 12: 9-10).
One detail I originally missed in the painting: the entire scene takes place under a cross that is formed by the overarching windowpanes. Jesus gazes upon each of us and beckons us. I pray for the grace to discern and follow as Matthew did – and as young Jorge Bergoglio did.
Karen Dill is a spiritual director for the Diocese of Shreveport and a parishioner at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
What's in a Choice?
When you hear “vocatIon” and “dIscernment,” what comes to mInd? to better understand these words, I compared Webster’s explanations with those of the Catholic Church. According to Webster’s dictionary: “Vocation is a strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation.” According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, a vocation is “the calling or destiny we have in this life and hereafter. God has created the human person to love and serve him; the fulfillment of this vocation is eternal happiness.” (CCC 1, 358, 1700) Webster’s states that “discernment” is “the ability to judge well.” For Catholics, "judging well" means following God's will, which we discover through contemplative prayer. This process of asking and listening for God's will through prayer is what we mean when we talk about discnerment.
For the sake of both this conversation and our Catholic faith, I focus here on Church teaching for both words. Let us begin with vocation.
For many years, I did not feel I had a vocation. I honestly thought either God forgot to give me one or I was simply missing the mark. As it turns out, it was a “me problem” (God never forgets about us!). To find my vocation, my divine calling to live a specific way in life, I had to search
continuously, even when I wanted to give up.
Does this resonate with you?
As Catholics, we sincerely believe that we all have a calling in life. If right about now you are shaking your head in disbelief, take this time to pause… and bring these feelings and thoughts to God. Ask Him, boldly, to show you, to help you on this journey. Ask Him, boldly, to guide you and walk with you. This is important to do regardless of your current stage of life. Finding your vocation is not just for the young! It is meant for all of us – I do not believe anyone is too old to figure it out. You may be too tired or too complacent, but you are not too old. If God calls you to a vocation, answer Him. Be like Samuel and say, “Here I am; you called me.” Then take a step further with his follow-up words, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
While I understand vocation, discernment feels a bit gray to me. It's less clear, less certain, and it requires more internal dialogue: “God, is this you speaking to me? Or is this the enemy trying to trick me?” In the gray of discernment for several years now, I’ve only begun to figure it out in the past 12 months. Gray is transforming into black and white. If you, too, are in the process of discerning any
significant life aspect – such as your marriage, career, or finances - give yourself permission to be in the gray. It is important that you do not rush; in my experience, God likes to take His time. And His timing is perfect. It is, however, up to us to keep in constant dialogue with Him, to keep our eyes on Him through the Mass and adoration. If you feel called to more than these, I recommend praying the 54 Day Rosary Novena or reading The Discernment of Spirits: An Ignatian Guide for Everyday Living by Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V.
Brothers and sisters, God did not create you to give up or to give in. He created you for a purpose. You were not forgotten, and if you ever hear those words in your internal dialogue with Him, you are not conversing with God .
Mary Arcement Alexander is a Licensed Professional Counselor & the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator.
Finding a Purpose at Work: Vocations and the Art
of Discernment
In today ’ s fast-Paced work envIronment – wIth Its whIrlwInd of emaIls and loomIng deadlInes – It ’ s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. But at the heart of a fulfilling career lies something deeper: a sense of purpose. That’s where the notion of vocation – and the art of discernment – comes in.
A vocation isn’t limited to a religious calling: it’s any work that aligns with your values, gifts, and passions. It’s the intersection of what you’re good at, what you enjoy, and how you can serve others. Whether you’re an administrator, technician, manager, or executive, your role can be a vocation when it contributes meaningfully to a greater good and brings a sense of alignment and fulfillment.
At the Catholic Center, I wear several hats – Safe Environment Coordinator, HR Generalist, and Administrative Assistant. I’ve come to understand that a vocation often reveals itself in unexpected ways. In my work, I help protect the vulnerable and
foster a culture of trust and safety across our diocese. Much of what I do happens behind the scenes –reviewing documentation, managing compliance processes, and supporting daily operations – but it carries deep meaning. It’s a vocation rooted in service, reminding me that even the quieter, administrative aspects of a job can make a lasting impact on our shared mission. Discernment is the reflective process of figuring out where that intersection of purpose lies. It involves listening to your inner voice, seeking feedback, exploring your strengths, and being open to growth. It’s not a one-time decision but a lifelong journey.
At the Catholic Center, we’re committed to helping each person explore their sense of purpose and to building a workplace where people feel fulfilled, appreciated, and maybe even a little inspired. We encourage everyone to reflect, reassess, and reach out for conversations with mentors, managers, or HR if you’re considering a new direction or simply trying to reconnect with the
“why” behind your work.
Finding your vocation doesn’t always require a grand epiphany or a dramatic career pivot. Sometimes, it’s about seeing your current role in a new light – realizing that your work matters and your contributions count.
As we grow, our sense of purpose evolves – and that’s not just welcomed here, it’s celebrated. If you’re still figuring it out, you’re in good company.
Kylie Black is the Safe Environment Coordinator, Administrative Assistant, and HR Generalist for the Diocese of Shreveport.
Discerning: What Does it Mean in Our Day?
We talk a lot about PrayIng for vocatIons. when someone Is determInIng whether god is calling them to religious life, the diaconate, or the priesthood, we call that decision-making process “discernment; they “discern” their vocation. Now, ask ten people what discernment means, and you’re likely to get several different answers. In this meditation, I offer my answer to the question: “What is discernment?”
I see discernment as work. It certainly includes asking God what He wants of my life, but I see much more in it than that. I believe we can, and should, “discern” many more decisions than our vocations; actually, anything worth deciding should include discernment.
An important bedrock concept is that discernment chooses between good options; not seemingly good, but actually good, such as deciding between marriage and single life. One option can be best for one person, and the other the best option for another, but both options are inherently good.
At its heart, the discernment process sifts through the “movements” in our lives to determine which ones move me toward God and which ones move me away from Him. This is not about sin – that which moves us
toward sin is obviously not good and thus not a calling.
Discernment is also a raising of awareness of what brings me closer to faith, hope, and love and what draws me from those virtues. Similarly, it is a raising of awareness of what comes from a spirit of freedom and not a spirit of fear. And while our feelings can help guide, they’re referenced with discretion. That which moves me away from God’s call might actually feel good, and the Spirit of God might prick my conscience with discomfort and uneasiness even though I’m moving toward His desires for me.
So, what are these “movements in our lives”? They are feelings, imagination, intuition, wants, needs, memories, reason, revelations in nature, every bodily response, and what we see, hear, smell, and taste. We take precious time to gaze at each of these, independently and not as a whole, and continuously ask which are from the Spirit of God and which are not. But be advised: our ego loves to imitate God’s Spirit, even as it moves in another direction! When we do discern a movement is from God, we bring it to Him in dialogue. When it is not from God, we ignore it. Over time, we are better able to prayerfully discern His desire or calling for us. However, in our final step, we also
ask God for a confirmation that we heard correctly.
Does this sound like a lot of work? Yes! My advice: we all need a trained spiritual director to help us learn and understand discernment. That said, it is vital that, even without such a director, we accomplish the inner work to discern properly and make our good decisions. The responsibility is ours.
To be fair, we likely practice some form of discernment without realizing what it is, and even though imperfect in some scenarios, I’ve always found it helpful. To be truly effective, though, it takes time, patience, and a deep desire to follow God’s lead, so pray! And the next time you pray for vocations, include a prayer that discernment be used when determining vocations – and with every other decision in our lives.
Mike Van Vranken is a spiritual director for the Diocese of Shreveport and a teacher of new spiritual directors for the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
Seminarian Burses
THANKS TO OUR RECENT DONORS:
(005) Cathedral of St. John Berchmans
Burse
James & Donna Bernard (In memory of Mrs. Jean Hundley and Mrs. Gwendolyn Claire Watson) The Congregation of St. Johns Roman Catholic Church
(006)2 Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze Memorial Burse #2 Anonymous
(008) St. Jude Parish Burse Anonymous
(011)2 Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #2 Anonymous
(023)2 Msgr. Edmund J. Moore Memorial Burse #2
Patricia L. McGraw
(035)3 Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward
Burse #3
Mr. Richard W. Ward
Chris & Rebecca Ward
NEW
(035)4 Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward
Burse #4
Mr. Richard W. Ward
(049) Rev. Philip Michiels Burse
Mr. & Mrs. Robert McGowen
Gifts to the Diocese of Shreveport's Seminarian Burse Program create a legacy of giving in support of our seminarians. It currently costs an average of $50,000 per year to educate and support one seminarian and we are blessed to have six at this time.
A seminary burse can be opened with a donation of $250 or more. A burse is completed when it reaches $10,000. Once a burse is open, it can receive donations in any amount. Burses can be opened to memorialize a loved one, honor a priest, and represent a group or organization. Anyone can contribute to any of the diocese's incomplete burses.
For a list of incomplete and completed burses, please scan the QR code on this page or visit www.dioshpt.org/seminarianburses
For more information on how to establish or contribute to a burse, please contact the Development Office at (318) 219-7260.
Celebrating A Legacy
In 2019, Cathedral of St. John Berchman parishioner Rosemary Ward made a donation to establish a burse in memory of her husband, Dr. James V. Ward. Six years and over $40,000 later, Mrs. Ward continues to give in memory of her husband and, along with her children, has just started her fifth burse in support of seminarian education.
Please consider joining with the Ward family in giving to the Seminarian Burse Program. Your gift supports our current and future seminarians.
To donate to an established seminarian burse, please scan here
To see an up-to-date list of incomplete and complete burses, please scan here
Cathedral of St. John BerC hmanS
CatholiC SC hool
Discernment & Vocation: The Example
of St. John Berchmans
CatholIc schools helP our young PeoPle dIscern theIr vocatIons, and here at sjb, we have a wonderful model of dIscernment In our Patron, st john berchmans he Is a shining example of clarity and fidelity to one’s vocation. Discernment is the process of seeking God’s will, especially in matters of vocation, through prayer and reflection. For any young men considering the priesthood, discernment is a sacred journey of listening, learning, and surrendering to God’s will. It involves not only asking what God wants from one’s life, but also trusting that His plan brings the deepest joy and fulfillment.
What makes St. John Berchmans such a powerful model for discernment is his simplicity of heart. He once said, “If I do not become a saint when I am young, I shall never become one.” His clarity came not from miraculous and dramatic signs but from a deep peace that is found in constant prayer and loving obedience. He reminds us that God speaks in the quiet.
Although St. John Berchmans died at the young age of 22, before he was ordained, his legacy endures. He is a patron of altar servers and students – young people who are searching for their path. His life invites all who are discerning a vocation to trust that holiness is possible and that God will lead them with grace if they are willing to follow. At SJB, we follow St. John Berchmans example of discernment in various ways, including attending weekly Mass, participating in religion classes multiple times weekly, and attending monthly Eucharistic Adoration. At SJB, we recognize that participation in the Mass and regular reception of the Eucharist help our students discern their vocations, as did St. John Berchmans.
Cassandra Key is the Director of Communications and Development for the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Parish and School.
St. JoSeph CatholiC SC hool
An overused quote says, “If you want to hear god laugh, tell hIm your Plans.” he knows what is best for us. Unfortunately, we have to figure this out and none of us, as far as I can tell, came with explicit instructions or a road map.
I had no idea I would end up where I am today: a Catholic school principal, married 18 years, with 4 children. My path of discernment had a few interesting turns, but the one constant in my life of change has been time in an adoration chapel with the Lord, asking Him to incline my heart. I began this practice in my home parish of St. Rita was as a child. Sometimes we went on weekends, sometimes at night and we’d fall
asleep in the pew. Nonetheless, we were there with the Lord.
In high school, I thought that working for my uncle’s A/C and heating company was an excellent path. Hot summers spent crawling in attics were all the proof I needed that this was not my calling. I gave the local college a quick shot but knew I wouldn’t be there for long. The Lord wanted me to respond to a calling, so I spent three years at St. Joseph Seminary College and began truly discerning priesthood. I assumed this was the path for me and responded accordingly. By my third year, it was clear that my response was supposed to be “no.” Feeling great anxiety at first, I knew I had to take a leap of faith. The Lord had a different plan and was showing me this was not it.
Numerous friends and family asked, for the next three years, what I wanted to do. I answered, “I will do anything but teach.” There I was, telling the Lord my plans, dictating to Him. Yet, the Lord was patient with me. Now, I didn’t go out turning over every stone looking for the woman I was going to marry, but when our eyes met at a retreat for college students, I just knew I was never going back to seminary. The Church and I mutually benefited from me being
distracted by her blue eyes. As for my work calling, a teaching position came open at the local Catholic high school in my last semester of college, and I applied for it. I got the job and accepted without hesitation.
In the midst of thinking I knew what I wanted and somewhat dictating that to the Lord, I still found myself proven wrong through intimate moments of prayer. I dared God to show me His plan for me and to open my heart to it – and He did! Here I am, nearly twenty years in my vocation and career. The Lord laughed, was patient with me, and opened my eyes.
So, what is my recommendation for discernment? Well, obviously, pray. Be in the presence of the Lord and speak with Him about what is in your heart. Ask Him to show you His plan. Sit. Discuss. Open your heart. Listen. Look for the little signs. It will not happen in a day, but it might. It could take ten full years like it did for me. You will know when the Lord is speaking and when the Lord is showing you what He desires. He knows the longings of your heart as He knows His plans for you. Allow Him to remove all distractions and all wants. Just be present with Him and allow Him to show you His plan for you.
“Direct my heart toward your testimonies and away from gain.” —Psalm 119:36
Clayton Cobb is the principal of St. Joseph Catholic School in Shreveport.
loyola College prep
End of Year Highlights
As the school year wraps up, we’re proud to celebrate our students’ achievements, service, and school spirit. Here’s a look at some of this spring’s standout moments:
academIc eXceLLence at state raLLy Eighteen Loyola students represented us in the State Literary Rally at LSU on April 12, competing with top scholars from across Louisiana. Highlights included the following awards:
• Scott Cook – 2nd Place, Spanish III
• Olivia Michelson – 2nd Place, English II
• Addison DeFatta – Excellent in French IV Interpretive Reading
• Anna Kisner – Excellent in Spanish II Interpretive Reading
We’re proud of all our participants for their hard work and academic dedication!
enVIronmentaL scIence meets earLy educatIon
Mrs. Norwood’s Environmental Science class hosted St. John
Berchmans' kindergarteners during a hands-on garden lesson. Students worked side-by-side planting flowers, learning about nature, and building cross-age friendships. It was a joyful day of mentoring and discovery!
ceLebratIng coLLege sIgnIng day
On May 2, we honored the Class of 2025 with a special College Signing Day celebration. Our grads are off to 20 different schools nationwide – over 85% are entering college with credit. Together, they’ve earned 323 awards totaling $7.5 million in scholarships! We couldn’t be prouder of their achievements and bright futures.
fca In actIon
Our Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) continued leading with heart by delivering baby blankets and socks to Mary’s House in support of expectant mothers in our community. This act of service is just one way our Flyers live out their faith and compassion.
announcIng the 2025 f.aI.t.h. chaIrmen
Congratulations to Zeke Savant, Cade Kirby, Alexandra Kerr, and Charlotte Fulco who are the newly named student leaders of F.Ai.T.H. (Flyers Aiding the Hungry). This team will carry forward a 30+ year Loyola tradition of service by helping to provide holiday meals for families in need.
It’s been a year of impact, inspiration, and incredible student leadership. We’re grateful for all that 2025 has brought — and we’re already looking forward to a new year of growth, learning, and community in the fall.
Jordan Harris is the Director of Marketing & Communications at Loyola College Prep in Shreveport, LA.
Are You Being Called to Assist Others?
God can call us to assIst others In many ways, IncludIng the mInIstry of lIstenIng to and walkIng wIth others as early as the thIrd century, belIevers sought helP from the desert mothers and fathers for their spiritual walk with God in their “modern” world. As Christianity grew, more of the faithful sought such guides to help consider life’s happenings and notice movements that directed them toward or away from God. These guides are called “spiritual directors,” and they continue to help people in their daily journeys with God.
Many souls in today’s world feel spiritually restless. They don’t need all the answers; they just want someone to listen to their story and help sift through the noise and distractions – that cause anxiety and steal joy – to discover who they are in Christ and where they belong in society. We all experience sources of confusion, disorientation, pain, and a sense of separation from God, including through:
• Grief and loss
• Technology fatigue and digital loneliness
• Spiritual isolation
• Justice and injustice issues
• The “Death of Work” because of automation and robotics
• Retirement insecurity
• Health care access
And the many issues in your own life might quickly increase this list!
The Diocese of Shreveport currently has only 13 trained spiritual directors to walk with the tens of thousands of Catholics in our geographical area. But many diocesan residents are starved for sacred conversations with someone trained to listen deeply with the ear of their heart who can gently teach them to notice where God is moving in their story. And some seek such a guide in their original language. Could you be called to be that person who accompanies others this way? Do you have a yearning to walk with others and lovingly point them to God? Do people
seek you out to hear their story, knowing you’ll help them navigate whatever issues they face?
Some faith-filled souls long to share their spiritual journey’s rich story and yearn for a trained spiritual director to examine and help deepen the already intimate relationship with God that brings them such peace and joy. They, too, need someone to see, hear, and accompany them. Could that be you?
While everyone does not receive the grace of a calling to be a spiritual director, God supplies all our needs (Phil 4:19), including for His missions. It seems obvious, then, that He’d call more than 13 in our diocese to become spiritual directors – and now you know about the opportunity and the need. Could this be your call?
To find a trained spiritual director to walk your journey with you, click “Ministries” on the diocesan website, then “Spiritual Direction” in the drop-down menu.
If you feel a tug toward ministry as a spiritual director, contact the Archdiocesan Spirituality Center in New Orleans at 504-861-3254, or email me at mikevanvranken@ comcast.net. Years ago, a priest said that if I went through spiritual direction training and formation it would change my life forever. He was right.
What about you? Are you being called?
Mike Van Vranken is a spiritual director for the Diocese of Shreveport and a teacher of new spiritual directors for the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
Around the diocese...
During the Lenten season, the ULM Catholic Campus Ministry held its 22nd Annual Fish Fry fundraiser.
held at the ulm catholIc camPus mInIstry (911 unIversIty ave., monroe, la), the fish fry typically occurred on Fridays during Lent, the six-week period leading up to Easter. More than one hundred student and non-student volunteers from surrounding parishes participated, as well as St. Frederick’s High School. Parishioners enjoyed donating their time and money to the ministry, which provides valuable opportunities for students, such as offering Masses, retreats, and a welcoming place to study. The Catholic Center also hosts a popular "Dollar Lunch" every Thursday during the semester. Proceeds also help students spread our Lord Jesus Christ’s Word across campus.
ANCHORED IN
DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 2025 SUMMER CAMPS
BELOVED JULY 13-16, 2025
MISSION POSSIBLE JULY 16-19, 2025
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: De Vuelta a Casa Young Adult Retreat, which took place in May 2025. Submitted by Diocesan Director of Multicultural Ministries, Karla Álvarez Gutiérrez.