Bayou Catholic Magazine June 2016

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Bayou

Catholic

Farewell Louis G. Aguirre retires

HOUMA, LA ~ JUNE 2016 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

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Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Pilgrimage to Rome

The diocesan Office of Stewardship and Development along with Father Simon Peter Engurait as the spiritual guide, would like to invite all for a trip to Rome in January 23-30, 2017.

Highlights of the tour will include:

• Attending the Papal Audience given by Pope Francis • Daily Mass in some of Rome’s most beautiful churches • Scavi Tour - A tour of the excavations under St. Peter’s Basilica • One day trip to Assisi • Superior Four Star Hotel Accommodations a block from St. Peter’s Basilica • Airfare, daily breakfast, four dinners and much more

Reservations are now being taken; space is limited.

Please contact Jeremy Becker Director of Stewardship and Development 985-850-3155 jtbecker@htdiocese.org

Contents FEATURES 26 Bishop Michael Jarrell retires

By Louis G. Aguirre

34 100,000 plus pages

By Janet Marcel

40 Superintendent of Catholic schools leaving

By Janet Marcel

52 Strategic Planning

By Janet Marcel

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COLUMNS 8 Comfort For My People

By Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

12 Pope Speaks

7

Pope Francis I

13 Question Corner

By Father Kenneth Doyle

14 Readings Between The Lines

By Father Glenn LeCompte

28 Seeing Clairely

By Claire Joller

29 Reading with Raymond

By Raymond Saadi

58 Overtime

By Ed Daniels

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FLIP THIS ISS

Bayou

UE!

Catholic

By Father Michael Bergeron

Bayou Outdoor Guide

20 Spiritual Works of Mercy

By Father Baby “Philip” Kuruvilla

50 The Joy of Love

Summer 2016

By Father Joey Pilola

ANNOUNCEMENTS 43 Annual Tekakwitha Conference eos Rod g n i Fish dition E

52 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 Editor’s Corner 16 Scripture Readings 22 Heavenly Recipes 24 Young Voices 46 Diocesan Events GUEST COLUMNS 18 Corporal Works of Mercy

HOUMA, LA

~ JUNE 2016

ENTARY

~ COMPLIM

July 20-24 in California

47 Food for the Journey Father Wilmer Todd speaks

48 Adult Faith Formation program

By Dr. Faith Ann Spinella

54 Steubenville on the Bayou

Nonprofit organization will oversee event in 2017

On Our Cover When Houma-Thibodaux’s Founding Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux retired in 1992, he asked Louis Aguirre what he would like as a memento. Aguirre responded: “Your zucchetto!” Now that Aguirre is retiring from a number of capacities in the diocese, including editor of Bayou Catholic, he has returned the skull cap to the diocese and presented it recently to Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. For a story and photos on the retiring editor, please see page 34.

Cover Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier

Where to find your Bayou Catholic Bayou Catholic magazine can be found at all Catholic churches in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, at the three Catholic high schools in Houma, Morgan City and Thibodaux, as well as the 10 elementary schools throughout the diocese. You may also visit the merchants listed in the Advertisers’ Index to pick up your copy. Those wishing to receive the magazine by mail can call Pat Keese at (985) 850-3132 or write to Bayou Catholic, P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395. Subscription price is $35 annually. For the online edition, go to www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Catholic Vol. 36, No. 12 How to reach us:

BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132

BY MAIL: P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395

BY FAX: (985) 850-3232

BY E-MAIL: bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org The Bayou Catholic is published monthly, for the people of the Roman Catholic Diocese of HoumaThibodaux by the H-T Publishing Co., P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395. Subscription rate is $35 per year.

The Bayou Catholic is a member of the Catholic Press Association, the National Newspaper Association and an associate member of the Louisiana Press Association. National and world-wide news service and photos by National Catholic News Service.

Lawrence Chatagnier

acting editor and general manager

Louis G. Aguirre editorial consultant

Glenn J. Landry, C.P.A. business manager

Index to Advertisers

Peggy Adams

advertising manager

Anna C. Givens

Advanced Eye Institute ............................... 43

Houma Digestive Health Specialists ............ 43

advertising accounts executive

Bishop’s Appeal ........................................... 2

HTeNews ................................................... 59

Janet Marcel

Brickhouse Cardio Club .............................. 36

Johnny’s Men’s Shop ................................ 45

Bueche’s Jewelry ....................................... 42

Max Home ................................................. 41

Cannata’s .................................................. 23

secretary and circulation

Pilgrimage to Rome ...................................... 3

Cardinal Place ............................................ 49

Lisa Schobel Hebert

Re-Bath ..................................................... 58

Channel 10 ................................................ 33

Rod’s Superstore ....................................... 15

Diocesan Outreach Line ............................. 21

St. Joseph Manor ....................................... 47

Diocesan Website ...................................... 25

Seminarian Education Burses ..................... 39

God’s Promises Books & Gifts ................... 44

Spotlight .................................................... 47

Gulf Coast Orthopedics ............................... 45

Terminix ..................................................... 49

Haydel Spine Pain, Wellness ....................... 31

Vision Communications .............................. 19

Headache & Pain Center ............................. 51

Watkins, Walker, Eroche & Hoychick - Attorneys at Law .................. 31

Holy Father (Peter’s Pence) Collection ........ 37

staff writer

Pat Keese

graphic designer

Meridy Liner

accounts receivable/payable assistant

Awards

CPA First Place General Excellence 2013 - 2014 LPA First Place General Excellence 2015 www.bayoucatholic.com

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Welcome Editor’s Corner Lawrence Chatagnier Acting Editor & General Manager

Summertime: vacations, weddings, fatherhood

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Summertime, what a great time of the year. It is a time for vacations to faraway places, trips to the beach, backyard barbecues and many more outdoor activities. Although summer doesn’t officially begin until June 20, families are already busy planning their summer activities. As Bishop Shelton J. Fabre mentions in his monthly column, weddings are traditionally celebrated in the month of June. All across the diocese men and women are eagerly awaiting their wedding day where they gather before God with family and friends and profess their love for one another. Pope Francis says this about the sacrament of marriage and its celebration. “Make sure it’s an authentic celebration, because marriage is a celebration. It’s a Christian celebration, not a worldly one. Imagine having a party sipping some tea? No way, without wine there’s no party.”

Once you say “I do” says the pope, you can’t cross your arms and wait. Because marriage is work ... and a life-long commitment. His tips include being patient, understanding and prayerful.

Father’s Day is also celebrated in June. It seems a day to honor fathers didn’t catch on as easily as a day to honor mothers. Mother’s Day was established as a national holiday in 1914. Father’s Day has its roots in Washington State, which celebrated the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day on July 19, 1910. There were attempts to make the day a national holiday but none were successful until 1972, in the middle of a hardfought presidential re-election campaign, Richard Nixon signed a proclamation making Father’s Day a federal holiday at last.

St. Joseph, who is often called the Umbra Patris, the Shadow of God the Father, is a model for all fathers. The characteristics of human fatherhood find their origin in God and the Father.

St. Joseph possessed the virtues which make him a model for fathers. A father acts justly, exercises prudence, exhibits strength, is obedient to God and his family, and is patient. These are but a few virtues that great fathers possess.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

As the American family changes, fatherhood is changing in important and sometimes surprising ways. The changing role of fathers has introduced new challenges, as dads juggle the competing demands of family and work. Here are some key findings about fathers from Pew Research Center reports. n Fewer dads are their family’s sole breadwinner n Dad’s and mom’s roles are converging n Work-family balance is a challenge for many working fathers n Today’s dads say they spend at least as much time with their children as their own fathers spent with them. n More fathers are staying at home to care for children Times are tough for many fathers in our area these days. Many find themselves struggling to provide for their families during these difficult economic times. There might be more fathers staying at home to care for their children locally but it may not be a matter of choice, but a matter of not being employed. Hundreds of hard working men who try to provide for their families and be like St. Joseph are faced with hardship.

This Father’s Day give thanks for the loving father in your life. In your prayers, remember the fathers who may not be employed and who are doing their best in dealing with these tough economic times.

Remember, after reading Bayou Catholic, pass it on to a friend or relative who might not be attending Mass. It’s one of the great ways to do your part in spreading the Good News!

Bayou Spirit

Golden Meadow is 100 Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish in Golden Meadow recently celebrated its 100th anniversary with a special Mass that was celebrated by Bishop Shelton J. Fabre and concelebrated by Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs, Abbot Justin Brown and priests of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. After the Mass Bishop Fabre blessed a new plaque on the outside of the church as well as a new statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor and a memorial cross.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier www.bayoucatholic.com

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Comment Comfort For My People Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

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Though weddings happen throughout the year, traditionally the month of June is recognized as the time for weddings. Therefore, in this June issue of Bayou Catholic I want to share with you two recent developments with regard to the celebration of the sacrament of marriage.

You will recall that the church recently revised the official English language versions of the Order of Christian Funerals and the Roman Missal. The church has now completed the revisions to the official English language version of the Rite of Marriage. Most of the revisions are in the wording of the spoken prayers, but there will also be a few other revisions in the area of clarifications given, suggestions offered and integration of a few cultural practices in the celebration of marriage.

The new Rite of Marriage will be published Aug. 25, 2016, and it may begin to be used Sept. 8, 2016, with a mandatory use date of Dec. 30, 2016. There will be more information offered on the new Rite of Marriage after its publication date.

The second development regarding the sacrament of marriage is here in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and concerns an adjustment to our diocesan policy regarding Saturday night

weddings. As you are aware, in the past the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux did not allow the celebration of weddings to take place on Saturday evenings. The reason for this was because the celebration of the anticipated (vigil) Sunday Mass on Saturday afternoon ushers in the church’s weekly celebration of the Sunday liturgy and the resurrection of the Lord. As was the case in other dioceses as well, out of respect for the Sunday liturgy the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux established a policy that weddings could not occur on Saturday evenings.

While this remains our policy, I also recognize that for various reasons it might be prudent for a wedding to be celebrated on a Saturday evening, which with certain understandings is allowed by Universal Church Law. Therefore, I discussed the possibility of Saturday evening weddings with our priests. After discussion, we came to a consensus to adjust the policy in a manner which includes the possibility that after consultation with their pastor and parishes, couples who wish to be married on Saturday evening in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux may request an exemption from this diocesan policy by writing to the bishop to state the reasons for their request.

After receiving their letter and considering the request, the bishop will consult with the priest and parish involved. After these consultations, to the very best of our ability we will attempt to meet the couple’s desire for a Saturday evening wedding. The celebration of the sacrament of marriage is a joyous time for a couple and for their families and friends, and it is my sincere hope that the new revisions to the Rite of Marriage and this adjustment to our diocesan

policy will serve only to enhance our efforts as the church to support and to pray for and with couples as they enter into the sacrament of marriage.

God has a way of reminding us that we are always on our way to him and that he is our ultimate destiny. Perhaps nothing reminds us more of this reality than having to physically move from one residence to another, a task I am undertaking as I write this article. (Moving is also a spiritual opportunity to simplify our lives and to again be reminded of how much “stuff” we have and how little of it we actually need to live.

Packing one’s own stuff places this reality directly in front of us!)

The former home of Harvey Sr. and May Ayo Peltier located in Thibodaux, which through their kindness and legacy has served as the bishop’s residence for a number of years, was recently sold by the owner of the home. In light of this sale to a new owner, I had to move and I examined various possibilities for another residence.

Considering many factors, diocesan finances among them, I thought it best for the immediate future that I simply take up residence at Lumen Christi Retreat Center.

As I leave the Peltier home in Thibodaux, however, I could not leave without offering great gratitude to the Peltier family for their generosity in providing this home for the bishop’s residence for many years. I express my sincere thanks to all of them for allowing me and our past bishops to call the Peltier house our home. I pray that the Peltier family will know God’s blessing for their great generosity.

Finally, I pray God’s blessing in a special way upon all who are fathers as we celebrate Father’s Day this month. Peace and blessings to you all!

New Rite of Marriage; moving is opportunity to simplify life Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

THERESA ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY

Comentario

El Nuevo Rito de Matrimonio; el cambio es oportunidad para simplificar la vida

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A pesar de que casamientos se celebran todo el año, la tradición es que junio es una época de bodas. Por eso, en la publicación Bayou Catholic de este mes de junio quiero compartirles dos elementos nuevos que tocan el sacramento de matrimonio.

Tal vez recuerdan que hace poco la Iglesia actualizó las versiones oficiales de la Orden de Funerales Cristianos y el Misal Romano en la lengua inglesa.

La Iglesia ya ha terminado las revisiones de la versión en inglés de El Rito de Matrimonio. La mayoría de las revisiones se encuentran en las palabras de las oraciones verbales y hay unas cuantas revisiones en el área de las clarificaciones, sugerencias ofrecidas y la integración de algunas costumbres culturales en la celebración del matrimonio.

El nuevo Rito de Matrimonio será publicado el 25 de agosto, 2016 y podría comenzar a implementarse el 8 de septiembre, 2016 con la fecha de uso obligatorio el 30 de diciembre, 2016. Habrá más información sobre el nuevo Rito de Matrimonio después de su fecha de publicación.

El segundo elemento sobre el sacramento de matrimonio está en nuestra Diócesis de HoumaThibodaux y se trata de un ajuste en nuestras políticas sobre las bodas celebradas los sábados por la noche. Sabemos que en el pasado, la Diócesis de HoumaThibodaux no permitía la celebración de bodas los sábados por la noche. La razón es porque la celebración de la anticipada (vigilia) misa dominical en un sábado por la noche toma el lugar de la celebración semanal de la liturgia dominical y la resurrección del Señor. Igual a otras diócesis y por respeto a la liturgia dominical, la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux estableció la política que no permitía que se llevaran a cabo bodas los sábados

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

por la noche.

Mientras esto es todavía nuestra política, también reconozco que por razones diversas sería prudente permitir, con algunos requisitos, que una boda se celebre un sábado por la noche bajo la Ley Universal de la Iglesia. Por tanto, he discutido la posibilidad de bodas los sábados por la noche con nuestros sacerdotes.

Después de la discusión, llegamos al acuerdo de ajustar la política de manera que incluya la posibilidad de que después de consultar con el pastor y las parroquias, las parejas

CATHERINE GUIDRY PHOTOGRAPHY

que quieran casarse los sábados por la noche en la Diócesis de HoumaThibodaux puedan solicitar una excepción a las políticas diocesanas enviando al obispo por escrito las razones de dicha solicitud.

Luego de recibir esta carta y considerar la solicitud, el obispo consultará con el sacerdote y la parroquia involucrada. Después de las consultas, haremos lo mejor posible por satisfacer los deseos de la pareja de celebrar la boda el sábado por la noche. La celebración del sacramento de matrimonio es un momento de júbilo para la pareja, para sus familias y amistades, y es mi deseo sincero que estos cambios al Rito de Matrimonio y este ajuste a nuestras políticas diocesanas sirvan solamente para mejorar nuestro esfuerzo como Iglesia para apoyar a las parejas y para orar con ellos y por ellos en su entrada al sacramento de matrimonio.

Dios tiene maneras de recordarnos que nuestro camino va hacia Él y que Él es nuestro destino final. Tal vez nada nos recuerda más de esta realidad que haberse mudado de un hogar a otro, un proceso que estoy realizando en este momento que les escribo este artículo. (Mudarse es también una oportunidad espiritual que ayuda a simplificar nuestras vidas y nos hace recordar también cuantas «cosas materiales» poseemos y cuan poco de estas cosas materiales necesitamos para vivir. ¡Al empacar nuestras cosas materiales, estamos poniendo esta realidad frente a nosotros!)

El hogar anterior de los señores Harvey y May Ayo Peltier ubicado en Thibodaux, que por su bondad y legado ha servido como la residencia del obispo por muchos años, ha sido vendido por el dueño de la propiedad. Debido a esta venta a un nuevo propietario, tuve que mudarme y busqué varias alternativas para mi nuevo hogar.

Al considerar muchos factores, siendo uno de ellos las finanzas de la Diócesis, decidí que lo mejor en el futuro inmediato es residir en el Centro de Retiro Lumen Cristi.

Ahora que dejo el hogar Peltier en Thibodaux no puedo marcharme sin ofrecerle mi enorme gratitud a la familia Peltier por su generosidad en brindar este hogar al obispo por muchos años. Quiero expresar mi agradecimiento a todos aquellos que me permitieron a mí y a nuestros obispos anteriores llamar la casa Peltier nuestro hogar. Ruego que la familia Peltier reciba las bendiciones de Dios por su gran generosidad.

Y por último, ruego que la bendición de Dios llegue de manera especial a todos los padres de familia ahora que celebramos el Día del Padre este mes. ¡Reciban todos ustedes la paz y muchas bendiciones!

Traducido por Julio Contreras, feligrés de la iglesia Annunziata en Houma

Binh luan bang loi

Nghi thức hôn phối mới Dọn nhà là cơ hội để đơn giản hóa cuộc sống

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Mặc dù các đám cưới diễn ra trong suốt cả năm, nhưng theo truyền thống tháng Sáu vẫn được công nhận là thời gian dành cho đám cưới. Do đó, trong mục tháng Sáu của báo Công giáo Bayou này, tôi muốn chia sẻ với ông bà anh chị em hai điều khoản mới gần đây liên quan đến việc cử hành bí tích hôn phối. Ông bà anh chị em sẽ nhớ lại Giáo hội thời gian gần đây đã sửa đổi các phiên bản ngôn ngữ tiếng Anh chính thức của Nghi thức Tang lễ Kitô giáo và Sách Lễ Rôma. Giáo hội hiện nay đã hoàn thành việc sửa đổi các phiên bản ngôn ngữ tiếng Anh chính thức của Nghi thức hôn phối. Hầu hết các văn bản sửa đổi nằm trong các lời cầu nguyện, nhưng cũng có một vài sửa đổi khác trong lĩnh vực để làm sáng tỏ hơn, các đề nghị được đưa ra và sự tích hợp của một vài tập quán văn hóa trong việc cử hành nghi thức hôn phối.

Nghi thức hôn phối mới sẽ được phát hành ngày 25 tháng 8 năm 2016, và nó có thể bắt đầu được áp dụng ngày 08 tháng 9 năm 2016, và ngày áp dụng bắt buộc là ngày 30 tháng 12 năm 2016. Sẽ có nhiều thông tin được cung cấp về Nghi thức hôn phối mới này sau ngày công bố. Điều mới thứ hai liên quan đến bí tích hôn phối trong Giáo phận Houma-Thibodaux và những điều liên quan đến sự điều chỉnh chính sách của giáo phận chúng ta liên quan đến các đám cưới vào chiều thứ Bảy. Như ông bà anh chị em đã biết, trong quá khứ Giáo phận Houma-Thibodaux không cho phép cử hành lễ hôn phối vào các chiều thứ Bảy. Lý do cho điều này là để ưu tiên cho việc cử hành thay Thánh Lễ Chúa Nhật vào các chiều thứ Bảy hàng tuần của Giáo hội dẫn vào việc cử hành phụng vụ Chúa Nhật và sự phục sinh của Chúa. Giống như trong trường hợp của các giáo phận khác, vì tôn trọng phụng vụ ngày Chúa Nhật, Giáo phận Houma-Thibodaux đã thiết lập chính sách mà các lễ hôn phối không thể cử hành vào các

chiều thứ Bảy.

Trong khi điều này vẫn còn là chính sách của chúng ta, tôi cũng nhận ra rằng vì nhiều lý do rất có thể là khôn ngoan để tổ chức một đám cưới vào chiều thứ Bảy, trong đó có những hiểu biết nào đó được Luật Phổ quát của Giáo Hội cho phép. Vì vậy, tôi đã thảo luận về khả năng cho các đám cưới vào chiều thứ Bảy với các Linh mục.

Sau khi thảo luận, chúng tôi đi đến sự đồng thuận điều chỉnh chính sách theo cách trong đó bao gồm các khả năng sau khi tham vấn với cha xứ và giáo

PEONY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

xứ của họ, những cặp vợ chồng muốn được kết hôn vào chiều thứ Bảy trong Giáo Phận Houma-Thibodaux có thể yêu cầu chính sách miễn chuẩn này của Giáo phận bằng cách gởi văn bản cho Giám mục và nêu rõ những lý do yêu cầu của họ.

Sau khi nhận được thư của họ và xem xét lời yêu cầu, Giám mục sẽ tham khảo ý kiến ​​với Linh mục và giáo xứ của họ. Sau các cuộc thảo luận này, trong khả năng tốt nhất, chúng tôi sẽ cố gắng đáp ứng ước vọng của họ cho việc đám cưới vào chiều thứ Bảy.

Việc cử hành bí tích hôn phối là thời gian vui vẻ cho đôi vợ chồng, cho gia đình và bạn bè của họ, và đó cũng là niềm hy vọng chân thành của tôi rằng các phiên bản mới cho Nghi thức Hôn phối và sự điều chỉnh cho chính sách này của Giáo phận chỉ nhằm phục vụ

và tăng cường những nỗ lực của chúng tôi cũng như Giáo hội để hỗ trợ và cầu nguyện cho và với các đôi vợ chồng khi họ lãnh nhận bí tích hôn phối.

Thiên Chúa có cách để nhắc nhở chúng ta rằng chúng ta vẫn luôn đi trên con đường đến với Người và Người chính là cùng đích của chúng ta. Có lẽ không có gì nhắc nhở cho chúng ta biết thêm về thực tại này hơn là việc di chuyển từ một nơi cư trú này tới một nơi ở khác, một công việc mà tôi đang thực hiện khi tôi viết bài viết này. (Dọn nhà cũng là một cơ hội thiêng liêng để đơn giản hóa cuộc sống của chúng ta và một lần nữa để được nhắc nhở về bao nhiêu “thứ” chúng ta đang có, nhưng thực ra chúng ta chỉ cần rất ít để sống. Việc thu dọn các vật dụng đã đặt để thực tại này ngay trước mặt chúng tôi!)

Căn nhà trước kia của Harvey Sr. và May Ayo Peltier nằm ở Thibodaux, 11 nhờ lòng tốt và di sản của họ, đã từng là nơi cư trú của tòa Giám mục cho nhiều năm, mới đây đã được bán bởi chủ sở hữu của ngôi nhà. Vì nhà này đã bán cho chủ sở hữu mới, tôi buộc phải di chuyển và tôi đã xem xét nhiều khả năng khác nhau cho nơi ở khác. Xem xét nhiều yếu tố, tài chính của Giáo phận và giá cả, tôi nghĩ cách tốt nhất cho tương lai trước mắt là tôi sẽ cư trú tại Nhà Tĩnh tâm Lumen Christi.

Khi tôi rời khỏi ngôi nhà của gia đình Peltier ở Thibodaux, tôi không thể ra đi mà không bày tỏ lòng biết ơn đối với gia đình Peltier về sự quảng đại của họ trong việc dành ngôi nhà này làm tòa Giám mục trong nhiều năm. Tôi bày tỏ lòng biết ơn chân thành đến mọi người trong gia đình họ đã chúng cho phép tôi và các Giám mục trong quá khứ của chúng tôi gọi nhà của Peltier là nhà của chúng tôi. Tôi cầu xin Thiên Chúa ban phúc lành cho gia đình Peltier vì sự quảng đại của họ.

Cuối cùng, tôi cầu xin phúc lành của Thiên Chúa một cách đặc biệt cho tất cả người cha khi chúng ta kỷ niệm ngày lễ Father’s Day trong tháng này.

Nguyện cho sự bình an và phúc lành đến với tất cả ông bà anh chị em! www.bayoucatholic.com

Comment The Pope Speaks

V 12

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- How Christians treat the poor is the clearest demonstration of their relationship with God, Pope Francis insisted.

“To ignore the poor is to despise God! And we must learn this well: To ignore the poor is to despise God!” the pope said May 18 during his weekly general audience.

The pope focused on the Gospel parable of the rich man and Lazarus and said the story is a reminder of the “harsh reproach” that will come at the final judgment for those who ignore the needs of the poor.

Lazarus represents both “the silent cry of the poor of all time and the contradiction of a world in which vast wealth and resources are in the hands of a few,” the pope said.

By excluding Lazarus, the pope said, the rich man “made himself the center of everything, closed in his world of luxury and waste.”

In the parable, the rich man has no name, he noted, while Lazarus’ name -- which means “God helps” -- is mentioned five times.

“Lazarus, lying at the door, is a living reminder to the rich man to remember God, but the rich man does not welcome this reminder. Thus, he is condemned not because of his wealth, but for being incapable of feeling compassion for Lazarus and helping him,” the pope said.

Only in death and in suffering the torments of hell does the rich man remember Lazarus’ name, the pope said. And then the rich man asks Lazarus for help while

CNS PHOTO/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ

A pedestrian gives money to a homeless man sitting outside St. Francis of Assisi Church in New York City in 2009. How Christians treat the poor is the clearest demonstration of their relationship with God, Pope Francis said May 18 during his weekly general audience.

in life he pretended to not see him.

“How many times so many people pretend to not see the poor; for them the poor do not exist!” the pope lamented.

The parable offers a clear warning that the mercy of God “is tied to our mercy toward our neighbors” and if one’s heart is closed, even “God’s mercy cannot find space” to enter, Pope Francis told those gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

“If I don’t throw open the door of my heart to the poor, that door remains closed, even to God, and this is terrible!” the pope said.

The rich man’s request to send Lazarus to warn his family is a reminder that Christians should not wait for a miraculous event to convert, but “to open their hearts to the word of God, which calls us to love God and neighbor.”

“No messenger and no message can substitute the poor we meet along the way because through them we meet Jesus himself. Thus, the mystery of our salvation is hidden in the reversal of fortunes the parable describes, in which Christ links poverty to mercy,” the pope said.

‘To ignore the poor is to despise God’

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Question Corner Father Kenneth Doyle

Explaining internal forum

Q

Q. In a recent editorial in a Catholic newspaper, I read that, with regard to whether civilly remarried Catholics may receive holy Communion, Pope Francis is now encouraging people to talk to their priest “in the internal forum.” What does that mean?

(From what I can understand, I think it means that the priest will help them to examine their individual conscience so they can decide for themselves whether they feel worthy to receive.)

(Indiana)

sometimes mitigate culpability and that “discernment can recognize that in a particular situation, no grave fault exists.”

The pastoral discernment Pope Francis encourages is far from an instantaneous and facile solution.

Instead, it requires a fair amount of reflection and of prayer. The pontiff says it would be wrong to conclude that “any priest can quickly grant ‘exceptions.’” People, the pope explains, should ask themselves such questions as: “How did they act towards their children when the conjugal union entered into crisis; whether or not they made attempts at reconciliation; what has become of the abandoned party …”

Such a thorough examination might help a person to assess where he or she stands before God and to determine his or her worthiness to receive Communion.

Whatever the decision with regard to Communion, divorced and civilly remarried Catholics should, the pope notes, always be welcome in Catholic parishes and supported in their efforts to raise their children in the Catholic faith.

A

A. Your understanding of the “internal forum” is correct. It refers to a private conversation between a Catholic and his or her confessor, which can help to determine the degree of subjective responsibility for a particular action. In his apostolic exhortation “Amoris Laetitia,” issued in April of 2016, Pope Francis recommends that divorced and civilly remarried Catholics discuss with a priest the specifics of their situation.

While the norm remains unchanged -marriage is indissoluble and, generally speaking, without the benefit of a church annulment, a divorced and civilly remarried Catholic is not considered eligible to receive Communion -- the pope acknowledges that each situation is different. The degree of responsibility is not equal in all cases, circumstances can

Greetings en route to Communion

Q

Q. Something’s been going on for a while in our church. I’ve never said anything to anyone about it, but I do find it annoying.

I was raised to believe that the moments right before, during and after holy Communion are a sacred time because we encounter

Christ in a special way.

There are a few ushers in our parish who shake hands with people in line to receive Communion. Often there is some laughter and small talk that accompany that greeting.

This has now evolved into a situation where some of these same parishioners, while walking up the aisle, tap friends on the shoulder who are kneeling and praying and greet them, too.

I have thought about speaking to our pastor in private about this, and maybe he can mention from the pulpit that Communion is a time for special focus and inner prayer and that such greetings are inappropriate. What do you think? Am I just being a grouch?

(Newport News, Virginia)

A

A. You are not being a grouch at all. You are being respectful and reverent and reasonable.

Holy Communion is, as you note, a special time -- and for the precise reason you mention: here we meet Jesus Christ in a very personal way, our most intimate contact with the divine this side 13 of heaven.

There’s a story about St. Teresa of Avila, who heard someone say: “If only I had lived at the time of Jesus. ... If only I had seen him, talked with him.”

To which St. Teresa is said to have responded: “But do we not have in the Eucharist the living, true and real Jesus present before us? Why look for more?”

You would be well-advised to speak to your pastor regarding your concern, or perhaps send him a note. Sometimes, it seems, we are more logical, more persuasive when we write things out.

Catholic News Service

Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@gmail.com and 40 Hopewell St., Albany, N.Y. 12208 www.bayoucatholic.com

Reflections Readings Between The Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

Mercy: Helping, forgiving, responding

L 14

Luke’s Gospel provides an abundance of examples of mercy in Jesus’ teaching and mighty deeds. Three of the four Sundays of June provide varying lessons about the virtue of mercy.

Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (June 5, 2016); Luke 7:11-17 This episode of Jesus raising the son of a widow from the village of Nain, which is about nine miles south of Nazareth, is unique to Luke’s Gospel. This uniqueness is significant because Luke’s choice of it contributes to his distinct portrait of Jesus. Just as Jesus and a crowd of followers are about to enter the city gates, they come upon a funeral procession. The deceased man is a widow’s only son, a detail which points to the fact that the widow was in a destitute situation. With her husband dead, her son would have been the breadwinner for the household, but now she is left with no one to provide for her.

Luke describes Jesus’ emotional state at this moment by saying he “had compassion for her” (esplanchnisthe in Greek).

Originally both the verb and noun from this root referred to the intestinal organs, and also to expose the entrails of a sacrificed victim in prophetic discernment.

In time, the intestines or bowels became the organ symbolic of emotion in a human being. H. Koester (splanchnon, etc., in

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, abridged version, G. W. Bromiley, p. 1068) maintains that the verb (splanchnizesthai) can denote “mere emotion, but usually ... refers to the inner disposition that leads to mercy.” This is precisely what happens in Jesus’ encounter with the woman from Nain. Moved with compassion for her, Jesus commands her to stop crying, reaches out and touches the bier upon which the man’s body is laid, whereupon the astonished pall bearers stand still, and he commands the young man to arise.

Then Jesus gives him back to his mother. Mercy here is a matter of a person who has the ability to do so (Jesus) addressing the need of a helpless person (a widow with no means of support).

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time (June 12, 2016); Luke 7:368:3 As was the case with Luke 7:11-17, this week’s Gospel reading contains a story unique to Luke’s Gospel.

Interestingly, Luke depicts Jesus’ acting compassionately toward another person who, however, has a different need. The social setting of this episode is important.

Jesus has been invited to a dinner party at the home of Simon the Pharisee. Just prior to the episode in Simon the Pharisee’s house, Jesus (Luke 7:29-30) contrasted tax collectors who were baptized

by John the Baptist as people who “declared the righteousness of God,” whereas the Pharisees and scholars of the Law who rejected John’s baptism likewise rejected God’s plan for them. Interestingly, “tax collectors” symbolize people in

need of forgiveness.

Into the midst of Simon’s dinner party bursts a woman who makes a beeline toward Jesus, humbly falls behind him at his feet, weeps upon them, dries them with her hair and anoints them with ointment. The woman is described as a “sinner,” although we are not told what her sin is. The ironic contrast in this episode is to be found in the fact that an outcast such as this woman should be in the presence of Pharisees who, in their own selfrighteousness, ostracized people such as her. While the normative social behavior expected of Jesus would have been to shun this woman, he surprises his hosts by doing nothing to stop her.

Apparently knowing what his guests would obviously be thinking, Jesus poses to Simon a parable about two debtors, one owing a greater debt and the other owing a lesser one. Assuming both debtors are forgiven by their creditors, Jesus asks Simon which would be the more grateful, and Simon logically answers “the one who owed the greater debt.” Jesus then contrasts the woman’s actions to Simon’s own lack of hospitality. Cleverly, Jesus has beaten Simon at his own game. The two debtors in Jesus’ parable reflect the situations of Simon and the woman respectively: Simon would be the one to whom the lesser debt is forgiven and the woman, the debtor who owed more. The intensity of her acts of humility and gratitude indicate an overwhelming experience of forgiveness that apparently she attributes to Jesus in some way.

Jesus reaffirms that she

a

is forgiven, and although his hosts are appalled at his presumption to have the ability to dispense divine pardon, he bids her go in peace.

The virtue of mercy is depicted here not only in Jesus’ affirmation of the woman’s forgiveness, but, perhaps even more so, in the lesson the story gives about dealing with sinful people. The Pharisees’ approach of ostracism leaves a person trapped in a hopeless spiritual situation that is destructive of the person.

Jesus’ approach, however, has a resurrectional quality. Having acknowledged the woman’s experience of forgiveness, his directive to her to go in peace means she can advance in life in a justified relationship with God, a relationship wherein the anxiety of her sinfulness will be alleviated.

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (June 26, 2016); Luke 9:51-62 Luke 9:51 is a major narrative marker in this Gospel, because it depicts Jesus heading toward Jerusalem with determination. In Luke 9:51-62, messengers sent by

Jesus to prepare for his ministry in Samaria (a region between Galilee and Judea) experience rejection from the people there.

Samaritans and Jews in Jesus’ day had a hostile relationship toward one another. James’ and John’s desire to call down divine judgment upon the Samaritans betrays their lack either of understanding or acceptance of Jesus’ exhortation to his disciples to love and do good to enemies, to bless those who curse them and pray for those who mistreat them (6:27-28). The

Reflection

disciples here are expected to adopt a new attitude and reaction toward hostility, benevolence, and the synthesis in the clash between hostility and reciprocated kindness is mercy.

In these three Gospel passages we have examples of different ways that mercy not only may be exercised, but, according to Jesus’ teaching and example, ought to be exercised. Helping one in need, forgiving another and responding to hostility with kindness are all forms of mercy.

Questions

g s? How willin ’s helplessnes le op pe of u are yo n How aware p them? el h s are you to in scandalou ward people to e d ion? u it ct n att fu r u ioral dys av h be n What is yo h it w who struggle at can aid situations or d of mercy th n ki a ow sh ng to Are you willi y? s. How their recover ith Samaritan w d le gg ru st h disciples cultures, n Jesus’ Jewis of people from ce n ta p ce ac ith from yours? do you deal w s which differ el v le ic om or econ social groups 15

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June

Saints

Holy Father’s prayer intentions

Charles Lwanga and Companions c. 1860 - 1886 feast - June 3

CNS file photo

Charles and 21 other Ugandan martyrs, ages 14 to 30, were officials and pages in the court of King Mwanga II of Buganda. The king, after first accepting Christianity among his people, began to insist that converts abandon their new faith. He also preyed sexually on the young men at court. As head of the pages and their chief catechist, Charles tried to protect his charges. But, when they would not reject Christianity, they were killed in 1885-86; some were speared to death and others, like Charles, were burned alive. These first martyrs from sub-Saharan Africa were canonized in Uganda in 1964 by Pope Paul VI; they are the patrons of African Catholic Youth Action, converts and torture victims.

Saints © 2014 Catholic News Service

Aloysius Gonzaga c. 1568 - 1591 feast - June 21

CNS file photo

Universal Human Solidarity. That the aged, marginalized, and those who have no one may find-even within the huge cities of the world-opportunities for encounter and solidarity.

Born to a noble Italian family, Aloysius served as a page in Spain and Italy. His father opposed a religious vocation, planning instead a military career for his oldest son. But Aloysius joined the Jesuits in Rome in 1585, taking his vows two years later. His health had been compromised by kidney disease, but he served in a Jesuit hospital opened in Rome when plague struck the city. He died of plague while ministering to the sick. St. Robert Bellarmine, his spiritual director, said the young Jesuit’s austere religious practices and penances were so extreme that others should not follow them. Canonized in 1726, Aloysius later was declared protector of young students and patron saint of Catholic youth.

Saints © 2014 Catholic News Service

John Fisher c. 1469 - 1535 feast - June 22

CNS file photo

Evangelization Seminarians and Novices. That seminarians and men and women entering religious life may have mentors who live the joy of the Gospel and prepare them wisely for their mission.

See www.apostleshipofprayer.org

A Yorkshire draper’s son, John was one of the “new men” of Tudor England, a distinguished scholar at Cambridge University who was ordained at age 22. Privately austere, John held several high offices: chaplain to a king’s mother, vice chancellor and chancellor of Cambridge, bishop of Rochester, counselor to Catherine of Aragon during King Henry VIII’s divorce proceedings against her. But John steadfastly refused to accept Henry as head of the church in England, and was imprisoned. The pope named him a cardinal, which further enraged Henry, who ordered John’s beheading. He shares this feast with his friend and fellow martyr, Thomas More; their heads were impaled on London Bridge two weeks apart.

Saints

CNS

© 2014 Catholic News Service

www.bayoucatholic.com

17

Corporal Works

2016 YEAR OF MERCY 2015

By Father Michael Bergeron The following is the sixth article in a seven-part series on the Corporal Works of Mercy.

6) Visit the imprisoned “Imprisoned” can mean many things. Most people think of it as literal imprisonment of those who have committed crimes. But there are other imprisonments such as addiction, those who feel imprisoned in their own homes or nursing homes, or people imprisoned by their own fears or their own ignorance. Then there are those who are imprisoned by 18 others’ view such as immigrants, non-English speakers or people with disabilities. Visiting the imprisoned can be as simple as a welcome that breaks down the wall of mistrust. That opportunity is presented to us every day.

The United States has the largest prison population in the world. There are over two million people incarcerated in this country.

Almost five million more are on probation or parole. According to a Human Rights Watch report, “tough on crime” laws adopted since the 1980s have filled U.S. prisons with mostly nonviolent offenders. Twenty-five percent of prisoners are non-violent drug offenders – many of them being marijuana which is now legal in several states. In Europe, most drug users are not jailed, but sent to outpatient clinics. There are 4,575 prisons in the U.S. – four times as many as Russia. Private prisons are a big business in the U.S. making massive profits and even being paid if the beds are empty.

The Innocence Project has helped to release 333 innocent prisoners after decades of incarceration.

The list of Popes who visited Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Visit the imprisoned prisons includes Pius IX, John XXIII, Paul VI, John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis. Pope Francis celebrated Holy Thursday Mass and washed the feet of 12 inmates (six men and 6 women – some who were non-Catholics) and a baby belonging to one of the inmates at Rebibbia Prison in Rome. Francis asked them to pray that he, too, might be cleansed of his “filth.” The inmates wept as Francis washed, dried and kissed their feet.

We must remember that the prisoner guilty of even the most awful crime is still created in God’s image, is a child of God, and is loved by God no less than we are.

Besides protecting society, the goal of imprisonment should be rehabilitation so that the “lost” can be “found” and restored to their relationship with God and God’s family – which is us. St. Paul states in Hebrews 13:3, “Be mindful of prisoners as if sharing their imprisonment.” We do share

their imprisonment because we are all part of the Body of Christ.

We can support the Innocence Project, halfway houses and employment opportunities once prisoners are released. We can join the Catholic campaign to end the death penalty and pray for those imprisoned unjustly. We can offer hope and support to the families of prisoners. If you know children whose parents are in prison, buying them peanut butter is “feeding the hungry,” but purchasing toys and gifts makes us part of “visiting the imprisoned.” We can also be mindful that we are all members of the human race, equal in God’s eyes, and brothers and sisters in Christ.

In the July issue of Bayou Catholic, the seventh Corporal Work of Mercy, Bury the dead, will be highlighted.

(Father Michael Bergeron is the pastor of St. John the Evangelist Church parish in Thibodaux.)

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Spiritual Works

2016 YEAR OF MERCY 2015

20

By Father Baby “Philip” Kuruvilla The following is the sixth article in a seven-part series on the Spiritual Works of Mercy.

“To forgive offenses willingly” is the sixth spiritual work of mercy.

It is one that will greatly prepare us to embrace the Jubilee Year of Mercy. This specific work of mercy requires a great deal of humility and is one of the hardest to attain.

Following are ways that forgiving offenses willingly becomes a spiritual work of mercy.

Mainly, it is a work of mercy toward our own self. It causes us to feel anger and hurt; it zaps our strength to nurse any grudges we hold causing great stress and vexation. By willingly forgiving someone, we are relieved of these burdens. Our strength and energy can be best directed toward more positive things in our life.

Forgiving offenses willingly is also a work of mercy toward the person who has caused us harm or pain. It can restore a relationship with that person that is important to us. It is a very great gift to offer mercy and forgiveness to someone who has harmed us and seeks our pardon.

We are reminded of the words of Jesus to Peter: Peter approached Jesus asking him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I say to you, not seven times but 77 times” (Matthew 18:21-22). Jesus instructs his apostles to forgive “70 times seven,” which actually means “without limit.”

Jesus proclaims that mercy and forgiveness are attributes of his followers and not childish vengeance. If we want Jesus’ mercy to be endless for us, we should have limitless mercy toward others.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

To forgive offenses willingly To limit our forgiveness of others makes us hypocrites. Forgiving others requires humility.

We must bear wrongs patiently.

This is also a very difficult task.

Our pride gets in the way. When someone sins against us we are hurt. That hurt can easily turn into pride. We place ourselves above the person who has harmed us and expect them to beg for our forgiveness. We believe that to forgive someone is a sign of weakness. I remember when I was in the 10th grade; I had some misunderstanding with one of my

close friends. I stopped talking to him for one year, waiting for him to come to me. It was a terrible time for me. My ego did not allow me to go to him and be reconciled.

After one year, I took the courage and talked to him at last. Then I found that he too was in the same boat as me. It was a great moment of relief for me. Forgiveness requires a person to become humble and vulnerable. It goes against all of our natural inclinations and means that we have to let go of the offense.

We cannot hold on to it. Even today it takes time for me to make

a

such decisions; but I am able to get over it, as I have realized that it is the best option for better peace and harmony in my life. Also, if I do not do it, I cannot receive forgiveness from God either.

The key word in this work of mercy is “willingly.” We must forgive those who have wronged us of our own accord. Forgiveness is not easy; it is something that has to be authentic and it must come from a willing heart. It is something that allows us to move on and it offers us freedom from past transgressions.

We should not hold on to offenses for years, but offer forgiveness immediately after someone has hurt us. To free both the forgiven and the forgiver is a positive aspect of forgiving willingly. We cannot change what has happened, nor get back at the other person.

Withholding forgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. To not forgive burdens us with misery and this robs us of the joy and peace in our life. To forgive others is a great healing gift to receive from God and share with others; and we should pray for this gift. God will surely grant this gift, if we sincerely ask for it. It is fair to say that all Christians should be forgiving people, though we know from time and experience, this is not always the case.

Forgiveness is supposed to be an outstanding quality of Christians, as in our Lord’s three short years of ministry, he practiced forgiveness time and time again. Even at his last moments, he begged God the Father to forgive us, “for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

When bitterness and grudges fill our heart, there is no room for the love of Christ within it. Forgiveness sometimes requires heroic virtue.

Mercy requires us to forgive others’ faults and wrongs. Heroism requires sacrifice. Sometimes that sacrifice is pride. Forgiveness is an eternal virtue. We will find forgiveness after death to the degree that we offered forgiveness to others in this life. How marvelous would our reward be, if we could just bear the slightest wrongs with joy and hope in our eternal reward?

(Father Baby “Philip” Kuruvilla is the pastor of St. Lawrence the Martyr Church parish in Kraemer.)

Diocesan Outreach Line

In response to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is offering an Outreach Line (formerly known as the Child Protection Contact Line). The Outreach Line is an effort to continue the diocesan commitment to support healing for people who have been hurt or sexually abused recently or in the past by clergy, religious or other employees of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Outreach Line operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. A trained mental health professional responds to the line. Individuals are offered additional assistance if requested.

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Outreach Line Telephone number is (985) 873-0026 or (985) 850-3172

Línea de Comunicación Diocesana

Con el fin de cumplir con las Políticas de Protección de Niños y Jóvenes de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Los Estados Unidos, la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux ofrece una Línea de Comunicación (antes Línea de Contacto para la Protección de los Niños). La Línea de Comunicación es parte del esfuerzo diocesano de comprometerse con el mejoramiento de aquéllos que han sido lastimados o abusados sexualmente recientemente o en el pasado por miembros del clero, religiosos u otros empleados de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux.

El horario de la Línea de Comunicación de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux es de 8:30 a.m. a 4:30 p.m., de lunes a viernes. El encargado de esta línea es un profesional capacitado en salud mental. Se ofrece asistencia adicional al ser solicitada.

Línea de Comunicación de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux Número de teléfono (985) 873-0026 o (985) 850-3172

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän Ñeå höôûng öùng Hieán chöông Baûo veä Treû em vaø Giôùi treû töø Hoäi ñoàng Giaùm muïc Hoa kyø, Giaùo phaän Houma-Thibodaux ñang chuaån bò ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp (luùc tröôùc laø ñöôøng daây lieân laïc baûo veä treû em). Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp laø moät söï coá gaéng cuûa giaùo phaän nhaèm cam keát haøn gaén naâng ñôõ nhöõng ai ñaõ bò toån thöông hoaëc bò laïm duïng tính duïc hoaëc gaàn ñaây hoaëc trong quaù khöù bôûi giaùo só, tu só hoaëc caùc coâng nhaân vieân cuûa Giaùo phaän Houma-Thibodaux. Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän hoaït ñoäng töø 8:30 saùng ñeán 4:30 chieàu, thöù hai ñeán thöù saùu. Moät nhaân vieân chuyeân nghieäp veà söùc khoûe taâm thaàn traû lôøi treân ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi. Nhöõng caù nhaân seõ ñöôïc trôï giuùp naâng ñôõ theâm neáu caàn.

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän Soá ñieän thoaïi: (985) 873-0026; (985) 850-3172

www.bayoucatholic.com

21

Heavenly Recipes

Sherryl’s en k c i Ch wings and

mushroom sauce

with peppers Story and Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier This month’s heavenly recipe, baked chicken wings and mushroom sauce with peppers, is from Sherryl Freeman, a parishioner of St. Luke Church in Thibodaux. Sherryl grew up in Thibodaux and went to 22 school at St. Luke until it closed.

She learned to cook from her mom.

“My mother taught me how to cook.

She put herself through college by cooking. After college she became a school teacher. When she got older she became sickly so my dad started cooking. My two sisters and I decided we could do a better job and took over the cooking for the family.”

Sherryl met her husband Joseph “August” Freeman while she was working at Avondale. August was a pipefitter and Sherryl was a welder for the electricians. While they knew each other at that time they didn’t go out until five years after they met. August worked there for 38 years. Sherryl says they were not blessed with children but have many nieces and nephews that they treated as their own. August passed away three years ago. “August was Catholic and I was a member of St. Paul Baptist Church. I wanted to become Catholic; it was something I wanted to do when he was living.

After he got sick I took care of him for a good while. It was after he passed away that I went through the RCIA program at St. Luke with Father Mitchel Semar,” she says.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Although she was Baptist, she was always doing things with members of the St. Luke community. “I was always mixed in with the Catholics I used to go and visit at St. Luke. It seems I was always in the St. Luke community.

I would help my brother-in-law cook for events at St. Luke and I began being more and more visible in that community.”

Sherryl says that going to church on Sundays was very important in her family. “My mom made sure that we always went to church on Sunday. It didn’t matter what time you came in on Saturday night; you were going to church on Sunday. You could say the same

for attending school. She would say you had better be either dead or in the hospital to miss school.”

These days she spends a lot of time at St. Luke Church. “I love the Lord. I love to read the Bible and I like to sing. It seems every time the church door is open I’m over there. We have Mass on Tuesdays and Thursdays and Bible study every Wednesday. I also help feed the senior citizens every third Wednesday of the month.”

Sherryl says that while she was always in the St. Luke community, now that she is Catholic she is part of the community and for that she feels blessed.

Chicken wings and mushroom sauce with peppers 1 dozen chicken wings 1 can cream of mushroom soup Seasoning blend to taste 1 medium onion Tri color peppers, (red, orange, yellow)

Put oil in a large pot and brown the seasoned chicken. Add onion, pepper and other seasonings. Add water and cook approximately 30 minutes. Take the chicken out of the pot and place in a baking dish.

Put the cream of mushroom soup in the pot and cook until the sauce is creamy. Pour the sauce over the chicken. In a pot with oil, saute′ the strips of three color peppers until medium cooked. Spread the strips over the chicken and sauce and place in a 350 degree oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes.

Young Voices

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How will you share your knowledge of the Catholic faith during the upcoming summer months?

During the summer I will spread my Catholic faith through means of kindness and hope.

Furthermore, though I may not participate in any Catholic summer camps or anything like one, I do plan to participate in my church’s youth group more and overall spread kindness and indirectly spread Jesus’ message. I also plan to help the homeless and poor in our community, along with the aforementioned youth group. I will also try to instill a message of hope to my friends and family when they need it, along with supporting charities.

Landon Cabirac, 13 years old St. Gregory Church parish St. Gregory Catholic School

As God said in John 15:5, “I am the vine, and you are the branches.” To me, this means that Jesus is always with me, in everything I do and every place I go. During the summer months, I plan to share the knowledge of my Catholic faith by acting as God tells me to in the Bible, by going to church every Sunday and by praying each night.

I also plan to live by example of Christ’s love in order to share my knowledge of my Catholic faith.

God wants my faith to grow, just like the branches on a tree grow.

Laura DeGravelle, 13 years old St. Genevieve Church parish St. Genevieve Catholic School

As summer approaches, I plan to spend time with my friends, family and teammates. Summer is a time for fun, but also not to forget to share our knowledge of the Catholic faith. I intend to share my knowledge by modeling my faith in forgiveness, charity and good choices. In doing this, I hope to help others spread the knowledge of our Catholic faith, also.

Jack Gautreaux, 13 years old St. Hilary of Poitiers Church parish Holy Savior Catholic School

I will share my knowledge of the Catholic faith during the upcoming summer months by going to church and helping the elderly. I will also share my faith with the children by helping them learn about God. Praying to God with my family, helping to teach the message of God, and showing the love, joy and faith that God gave me to everyone I meet are other ways to share my faith. My knowledge of the Catholic faith is increasing with the Good News of God. Kaylin Stoufflet, 13 years old Maria Immacolata Church parish Maria Immacolata Catholic School Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

htdiocese.org

NOW AVAILABLE

Personalities Bishop Shelton J. Fabre It is a pleasure to congratulate Bishop Michael Jarrell on his retirement as Bishop of Lafayette.

Whether in Houma-Thibodaux from 1993 to 2002 or in Lafayette until the present time, Bishop Jarrell has been a steady force for the good of God’s people. I am particularly grateful to him for leaving us a strong and vibrant diocese. I wish him the very best in his retirement and ask for God’s abundant blessings now and for many years to come.

Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs

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LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Bishop Michael Jarrell was ordained to the episcopacy and installed as the second bishop of Houma-Thibodaux on March 4, 1993, at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

Ordaining prelate was the late Archbishop Francis B. Schulte of New Orleans while Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux served as co-consecrator.

I congratulate Bishop Michael Jarrell on his retirement as the Ordinary of Lafayette. I also welcome him to the “club” of emeritus bishops. I am grateful for his leadership here in the diocese and the strong foundation I inherited and was able to build on. I pray that the years ahead of him will truly be golden years, well deserved after many years of service.

Gone fishin’?

For retired Bishop Jarrell parish ministry comes first Story by Louis G. Aguirre

He may be 76, but he neither looks it nor acts like it. Bishop Emeritus Michael Jarrell, who recently retired as Bishop of Lafayette, is full of energy, is in good health, loves fishing, exercises regularly and is in great shape.

While many, including this writer, thought he would be devoting the rest of his life to fishing in Big Lake near Lake Charles, it turns out the retired bishop is going to balance his time serving in a parish five days of the week and then go fishing.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Bishop Jarrell, who also served as second bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, looks back at his now 49 years as a priest and 23 as a bishop and says his nearly 10 years of service in Houma-Thibodaux were happy ones.

“I truly enjoyed ministering there,” says the bishop, “I still remember how welcoming they all were: the priests, the people in the parishes and the diocesan staff.”

The bishop says he will always be grateful to the late Msgr. James B. Songy and the other members of the Bishop’s Cabinet. He has a fondness for Lumen

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LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Bishop Jarrell addresses those gathered at the grand opening of the pastoral center expansion dedicated in his honor in 2010.

fishing second Christi Retreat Center where, he says, “I spent many restful hours … it is a beautiful setting.”

“Whether in Houma-Thibodaux or Lafayette, I have been blessed to be present at so many parish occasions, to meet with people at various ceremonies, all those wonderful confirmations,” says the bishop, also explaining that when he moved to Lafayette the size of that diocese presented new opportunities and challenges as it is three times the size of HoumaThibodaux. To him the most important thing has been to be able to bring the presence of the bishop at the parish and school levels.

Bishop Jarrell says at the time he was ordained, right after Second Vatican Council, a number of priests and religious were leaving. “I never gave leaving a thought,” he says. “I consider priesthood a great gift. To me a priest is basically an instrument of God’s work and when I have been able to help people or to bring them the sacraments, God has worked through me. It is a great source of satisfaction.”

As a priest and bishop in residence since April 15 at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Scott, Bishop Jarrell

has been assisting the pastor in parish ministry.

“I’m very happy in fulfilling those duties,” he says, “as bishop I would always tell the priests that it doesn’t get any better than being a pastor.” He has now plunged into regular, busy, parish life, celebrating Mass, hearing confessions, and baptisms, funerals, etc.

Bishop Jarrell says he is very pleased with the appointment of Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel to replace him in Lafayette. “He is a native of our diocese, born in Basile and a graduate of Immaculata Seminary High School in Lafayette. He exudes confidence and having served for six years as auxiliary bishop in Dallas he brings a lot of experience to us.”

What advice would he give a brand new bishop?

“I would tell him, pay close attention to the needs of the priests because all parishioners have a priest but for a priest it is the bishop who should be there to encourage and support both in areas of administration and spirituality. I would also tell the new bishop to listen before making decisions and to be present to the people at their parishes.”

Once again recalling his days in Houma-Thibodaux, Bishop Jarrell concludes: “It was such a privilege to have served there! I so enjoyed living there and getting to know the wonderful clergy, religious and people. To be honest, before being called to Lafayette I had planned to live there for the rest of my life.” www.bayoucatholic.com

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Entertainment

Seeing Clairely

T 28

Claire Joller

They appear to be so sedate, so peaceful under the bird feeder in our back yard, pecking the ground for seeds dropped by other birds.

They don’t startle as easily as other birds do when we emerge from our kitchen door, and even their cooing is soothing to the ear.

But we’ve had different, less tranquil, experiences with doves.

Two years ago, while our grandchildren were spending the night at our house, fiveyear-old Emilie and I were in my husband’s and my bedroom. Emi discovered our stash of souvenirs and artwork she and her brother had drawn for us through their earliest years. She spread them across the floor, and we were sitting there together as she commented on various items, stacking them here and there.

At one point, I looked up and then back down again, but did a quick double-take. There, about two feet from where we sat, was a dove on the floor, watching us and standing stock still. I wish I could say that at this point I calmly whispered to Emilie about the bird in the bedroom.

Instead, I let out a yelp, which made her think danger was upon us. Spotting the dove, she screeched and jumped up onto the bed behind me, holding onto my neck for dear life. Still not being adult about the surprise appearance, I yelled out to my husband and grandson, “THERE’S A BIRD IN OUR BEDROOM!” They came running.

Through it all, the dove stood his ground, not moving so much as a feather.

It was a regular hubbub, because we couldn’t decide how to catch and remove the thing without harming it (or causing it to you-know-what on our heads).

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

The dove endangerment Finally Emil got a cloth and was going to grab it gently. The dove had had quite enough of the noise, and flapped his way to the top of a tall wardrobe. More screeching from Emilie and whooping from her older brother Gian, who seemed to be enjoying this departure from the ordinary.

The traumatized dove didn’t resist as Emil wrapped it in the cloth and released it outside. Emilie was afraid that since one bird had come in, another one could do the same—maybe in the night when we were sleeping! I wanted most to know why we didn’t see it before it got to our bedroom.

Emil decided that the wind probably blew the back door ajar when he didn’t close it tightly earlier. In our adjacent family room, we found um, evidence, that the dove had silently walked behind tables, sofas, desk, and chairs where we were sitting, and ended up in the bedroom, stopping

first behind a large chair until he decided to visit Emilie and me in the center of the floor.

For months Emilie made sure no birds were in the house when she spent time with us. The children and we had pretty much forgotten about the feathered invader. Until two days ago.

The children were here for their usual Wednesday night sleepover.

We were having supper when a loud bang from the direction of our family room windows made us all jump.

Gian ran to the window, and by the pained look on his face we knew we had a casualty. Outside the window a dove lay on its back, wings folded against its quivering body. Emi peeked at it from behind a piece of furniture, and my stomach turned when I saw the splatter on the window.

Doves are decidedly not harmless.

They are home invaders and stealth bombers. Just ask Emilie.

Book Reviews

Reading with Raymond Raymond Saadi

Tried by Fire

By William J. Bennett Thomas Nelson Books $32.99 B i l l Bennett makes clear his intention at the outset that “it is time to tell more fully this b l o o d y part of the church’s story.” So readers should not be surprised to find that the persecutors of the early church resemble greatly today’s ISIS. Bennett illustrates this early history ‘through the lives of the most compelling figures in the first millennium after Christ.”

Included are St. Paul, Constantine, Augustine, Jerome and the many martyrs who willingly died for their faith. The apostle Peter, addressing a church suffering persecution urged, “the trial of your faith (much more precious than gold which is tried by fire) may be found unto praise and glory and honour at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” This is a wonderful and illuminating book, easily accessible by all.

The Road to Little Dribbling

A Thousand Miles from Nowhere

By Bill Bryson Doubleday $28.95

By John Gregory Brown Lee Boudreaux Books (Little Brown) $26

Once again, the marvelously funny and informative Bryson takes us on an exhaustive and entertaining tour of Britain, his adopted country. Avoiding major cities (except for London, which he describes lovingly), he opts for unusual and seldom visited tourists spots. He takes us by car, bus and on foot from the very South to the very North of the country or at least, as close as he reckons it. Along the way we’re surprised to learn interesting facts such as that George Everest, for whom the mountain is named, never ever saw it. Why it was named for him, no one knows. We travel on until the end when he describes the countryside of Great Britain as “the world’s largest park, its most perfect accidental garden.”

Deserting New Orleans on the eve of Katrina’s arrival, Henry Garrett found himself three days later at a roadside motel in a small Virginia town tortured by having left behind in New Orleans, his broken marriage to Amy, his teaching job 29 … well, everything. The proprietor of the motel thinking he’s a refugee from Katrina insists on his staying without charge as long as he likes.

He decides instead to visit his sister in Baltimore but before he can leave, he’s involved in a tragic incident and is invited by the sheriff to stay awhile. Eventually, Henry hits the road again, hoping to mend the ravages of his past and restore a family connection.

Seat Yourself

By Alex V. Cook ~ LSU Press $19.95 Cook, who was raised down the bayou in Houma, begins his gustatory tour just about land’s end at Sportsman’s Paradise in Chauvin where seafood is right out of the sea and jumbo soft shell crabs a fresh delicacy. Heading West, he dines at Abear’s Café where he sings with high praise their Seafood Gumbo and Peanut Butter Pie. From there, Alex’s tour of roadside restaurants continues as he heads West, popping in for a shrimp po-boy at the Olde Tyme Grocery in Lafayette, and devouring Boudin at Billy’s Diner in Krotz Springs. It’s an appetizing guide to some of the finest roadside eateries. www.bayoucatholic.com

Youth

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Diocesan Leadership Awards Recognizing exceptional youth Story by Janet Marcel Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier The Diocesan Leadership Awards, sponsored annually by the Office of Youth Ministry for over 29 years, recognize youth who have demonstrated exceptional character, leadership skills, service and Catholic identity in their church parish or school. It is the highest honor and achievement that a high school junior, senior or college freshman can receive.

The youth for this award are selected at the church parish and school level. A letter is sent to the pastor of each church parish, the DRE or CRE, and parish youth minister, as well as the principals and campus ministers at the three Catholic high schools.

The qualifications for selection of each of the candidates are as follows: n must be a witness to others through their involvement with their church parish, school and family by sharing of their gifts of time, talent and treasure; n must share their leadership skills, dedication, responsibility and faith with others in their church parish, school and family; n should be involved in diocesan ministry such as Teens Encounter Christ (TEC), Christian Leadership Institute (CLI), aNEW, Youth Rally, Steubenville on the Bayou, etc. n must be active witnesses in their parishes and Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

schools in the ministries and outreach that they participate in day-to-day.

Each young person receives a diocesan leadership medal comprised of a white and red banner, image of an eagle, a cross and the diocesan crest, which is symbolic of the award. The white in the banner represents one’s baptism; the red signifies the Holy Spirit and the blood of Jesus Christ. The image of the eagle signifies the many qualities of a leader such as courage, strength, loyalty, self-confidence, passion and perseverance. The cross is one of the most recognizable symbols of Catholic Christian faith. And, the diocesan crest represents the place where the recipients of the award were nurtured to become the outstanding young people they are today.

Recipients of this year’s Diocesan Leadership Awards were honored at a Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. They are: Dustin Blanchard, Brooke Bethancourt, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma; Caroline Cruse, Jay Danos, St. Joseph Co-Cathedral, Thibodaux; Jarrod Suire, Katie Fairchild, Annunziata Church parish, Houma; Jessica Galey, Ben Lajaunie, Christ the Redeemer Church parish, Thibodaux; Blake Byrne, Caroline Nini, Holy Cross Church parish, Morgan City; Rende Adams, Brennan Pierce, Holy Savior

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Church parish, Lockport; Anna Gautreaux, Michael Larose, Maria Immacolata Church parish, Houma; Jacob Clement, Seth Guillot, Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish, Chackbay; Devin Griffin, Nicholas Santiny, Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish, Golden Meadow; Kandace Ellender, Selena LeBeouf, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Church parish, Houma; Jules Fanguy, Cieralyn Callais, Our Lady of the Rosary Church parish, Larose; Marcel Robert Eymard, Sacred Heart Church parish, Cut Off; Amy Parrott, Owen Trosclair, Sacred Heart Church parish, Montegut; Mollie Millet, Mason Rutledge, Sacred Heart Church parish, Morgan City; Jonathan Spinella, St. Andrew Church parish, Amelia; Caleb Stringer, Gabrielle White, St. Ann Church parish, Bourg; Emily Charpentier, St. Anthony of Padua Church parish, Bayou Black; Austin Reed Guidry, St. Anthony Church parish, Gheens; Ashton Bassler, Lauren Prestenback, St. Bernadette Church parish, Houma; Dylan Domangue, Robert VanMatre Jr., St. Bridget Church parish, Schriever; Jillian Landry, Emily Oldag, St. Charles Borromeo Church parish, St. Charles Community; Matthew Burgo, Brittney Liner, St. Eloi Church parish, Theriot; Luke Oncale, Leah Rodrigue, St. Genevieve Church parish, Thibodaux; Connor Breaux, Elise Theriot, St. Gregory Church parish, Houma; Austin Aucoin, Julia Robichaux, St. Hilary of Poitiers Church parish, Mathews; Joel Anderson, Shayla LeBoeuf, St. Joseph Church parish, Chauvin; Damian Lefort, Rilan

Percle, St. Joseph Church parish, Galliano; Lane LeBlanc, St. Lawrence Church parish, Chacahoula; Destiny Hotard, Madison Scioneaux, St. Lawrence Church parish, Kraemer; Jonathan Moore, Alyssa Thibodeaux, St. Louis Church parish, Bayou Blue; Raylyn Guidry, Taylor Foret, St. Mary’s Nativity Church parish, Raceland; Winston Ardoin II, Caroline Constant, St. Thomas Aquinas Church parish, Thibodaux; Lauren Mabile, Emma Thomas, Central Catholic High School, Morgan City; Jason Hubbell, Megan Waguespack, E.D. White Catholic High School, Thibodaux; Grant Ledet, Sarah Pellegrin, Vandebilt Catholic High School, Houma.

C o r p o r at e L aw ~ w i L L & S u C C e S S i o n S ~ e S tat e p L a n n i n g ~ r e a L e S tat e

Daniel J. Walker ~ William A. Eroche Daniel L. Hoychick ~ Michelle L. Hoychick 1340 West Tunnel Blvd., Suite 306 ~ Houma, Louisiana 985.868.2333 ~ wwelaw.com

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Michael S. Haydel, M.D. FIPP Michael P. Charlet, M.D., FAAN Karl G. Haydel, Jr., MD Daniel R. Clayton, PA-C Donovan J. Matherne, FNP-C Brandi B. Degruise, FNP-C Interventional Pain Practice

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Office located in Houma

1022 Belanger Street • 985-223-3132 www.painspecialty.net www.bayoucatholic.com

Youth

Youth Rally 32

attracts hundreds

Over 600 youth and adults from across the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux attended the annual diocesan youth rally at St. Bernadette Church parish in Houma. Keynote speakers for the event were Katie Prejean and Paul George. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre was the main celebrant of the closing Mass for the event. Father Mitchel Semar led the group in adoration.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

e n Tu To...

In

Quality Family Programming for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux ~ Channel 10* on Comcast of Houma and CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS of Terrebonne Parish ~ Channel 10* on CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS in Thibodaux ~ Channel 10* on VISION COMMUNICATIONS of South and Central Lafourche ~ Channel 10* AT&T U-Verse *Channel 10 is provided by and in cooperation with HTV of Houma. ~ Channel 71, ALLEN’S TV CABLE of Morgan City

6:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:30 A.M.

6:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:30 A.M.

6:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:30 A.M.

6:30 9:00 9:30 8:30

SUNDAY

Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Closer Walk Comfort For My People

MONDAY Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Focus Spotlight

TUESDAY

Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Live with Passion Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary

WEDNESDAY Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary

A.M. A.M. A.M. P.M.

6:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:30 A.M. 11:00 P.M.

6:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:30 A.M.

6:30 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 9:30 A.M.

Closer Walk Live With Passion Comfort For My People

THURSDAY Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Focus Spotlight Spotlight

FRIDAY

Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Live With Passion Comfort For My People

SATURDAY Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary The Choices We Face Spotlight

Programs produced by the Diocesan Office of TV Communications. We reserve the right to make program changes. www.bayoucatholic.com

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Cover Story

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

100,000 plus pages Louis Aguirre: Laying out pages in 1973; at right with Cardinal Jaime Ortega of Havana in 1998.

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Louis Aguirre’s ministry spans 45 years, three dioceses, six bishops Story by Janet Marcel On Mother’s Day in 1977, Louis G. Aguirre, who had been serving as associate editor of the Arlington Catholic Herald in Virginia for almost a year and a half, received a phone call from Emile Comar, then editor of the Clarion Herald newspaper of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, inviting him to return home to Louisiana to be the editor of the HoumaThibodaux edition of the Clarion Herald for the newly established Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

Aguirre, who is the only remaining member of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s original staff when it was established in 1977, is retiring at the end of this month.

During his 39 year tenure, Aguirre has served the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux as editor and general manager of the Bayou Catholic, director of Communications, Hispanic Ministries and Grants, and as diocesan coordinator to both the Department of Formation Ministries and the Department of Social Ministries.

“As the last employee who was a part of the diocese when it was founded in 1977, Louis Aguirre’s Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

retirement is certainly a poignant time for the diocese.

I have relied very often upon Louis’ historical memory and insight in my time here in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux,” says Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. “In his many areas of service to the diocese, especially his service as communications director and as director of the Hispanic Apostolate, Louis has given generously of himself in assistance to me, to the diocese and to the church. I am deeply grateful to him for his service, and I ask God’s blessing upon him as he retires.”

A native of Havana, Cuba, Aguirre came to the United States alone when he was just 13 years old, without his parents and all of the things he was accustomed to, and was taken in immediately by the Catholic Church. “They were there the moment I got off the plane in Miami and did everything they could to take care of me until my parents were able to come to the United States. They fed me, clothed me, sheltered me and educated me. Everything in my life has revolved around the Catholic Church and I am very grateful to the church for being sort of like my parents, in their absence.”

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but he brought in other ministries that he felt were He attended Catholic schools in New Orleans, opportunities to enhance the faith of the people and received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the life of the church here, says Aguirre.

Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge and began “Bishop Shelton J. Fabre has been a brand new his career at the Clarion Herald in the Archdiocese force that is looking at what has taken place (so far) of New Orleans as a youth editor in 1971, where he to enhance and fine tune our services and to do so had the responsibility to make sure the youth had in a very pastoral way. He has the same demeanor a presence in the newspaper. After six months, his as Pope Francis; he comes across as very gentle and boss noticed he had a talent for layout and design, very pastoral, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t know and he began working as graphic designer for the how to guide and how to do the things that need to be entire publication, while continuing to write and take done,” Aguirre says. photos. In January 1976, he and his wife Anne moved Over the years, Aguirre has worked in many to Arlington, VA. different capacities in the diocese and has basically Aguirre worked for six different bishops during his had to learn each new job on his own since there was career, Archbishop Philip M. Hannan of New Orleans, really no one to train him. He had no formal training Bishop Thomas J. Welsh of Arlington and all four in public speaking or communicating outside of the bishops of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. print media. He says transitioning into different areas When the diocese was first established, Aguirre says wasn’t difficult, but it was a little scary. He recalls they literally sat on boxes on the floor of the rectory at the first time he was going to do a television show, he the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma until asked Bishop Boudreaux to give they could move to the Chancery’s him a blessing. first location on Aycock Street. Ten “He put his hands on my years later, having outgrown that head like a bishop does during building, they acquired the building a confirmation or an ordination on Highway 311, which was more and started saying all kinds of room than they thought they would things in Latin. I don’t know ever need. exactly what he said, but it made “Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux me feel at ease, and I went on was a great founding bishop,” says to do hundreds of T.V. shows, Aguirre. “He came with a lot of radio shows, press conferences, experience, both as an auxiliary etc. And in all of the years I bishop in (the Diocese of) Lafayette was the spokesperson for the and then as bishop of (the Diocese diocese, I can honestly say that 35 of) Beaumont. He had a real clear I have never been asked to lie or and loving understanding of who we Bishop Shelton Fabre cover up anything or not to be as are as a people. He knew all about Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux transparent as I could be.” the culture and faith of the people Aguirre says the one thing of the area because he was one of he is most proud of with regard to his service to the them. Having a Cajun bishop as our first bishop was diocese is the Bayou Catholic. The publication started a blessing. Bishop Boudreaux was a visionary and out as an eight page wrap around in the Clarion an idealist who had a gift of being able to surround Herald, then it became a weekly newspaper and himself with people who could help him carry out his now it has become what some believe to be the best vision. diocesan magazine in the country.

“With Msgr. James B. Songy, administration; “The Bayou Catholic is an integral part of the life Msgr John L. Newfield, canon law; Msgr. Francis of the church in the diocese. Not only does it teach, J. Amedee, pastoral services; and Msgr. William inform and enlighten the people of the area, it is Koninkx, priesthood and the church; who we used also an incredible piece of history. It has recorded to call the four pillars of the church, and visionary the life of the church in Houma-Thibodaux from day Bishop Boudreaux, we hit the ground running and one; there is nothing to compare it with. People 100 forged a diocese that became a model for other years from now will be able to look at it and see who dioceses.” we were, what we did, and how we did it; it is an Aguirre says that by the time Bishop Michael invaluable historical piece,” says the only editor the Jarrell, second bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, arrived publication has ever had. here, he inherited a diocese that was running Of course, he says, the Bayou Catholic is not just smoothly; he thought he would just build on what was his accomplishment; it is the accomplishment of his there and didn’t see a need to make a lot of changes. entire staff. “I have been privileged to work with a “Having been a pastor all of his life, he had to learn very loyal, committed, enthusiastic and professional how to be a bishop and he did it very well; he became group of people, who make the Bayou Catholic what one of us and we were blessed to have him here.” it is, together with the bishops who have served here.

Aguirre knew Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs, We have been very fortunate that each of our bishops third bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, back when have all seen the value and importance of the Bayou he was “Father Sam” serving as the director of Catholic and have always supported it.” communications for the Diocese of Lake Charles.

All in all, Aguirre estimates that he has layed out Aguirre even had the privilege of attending his about 100,000 pages in the past 45 years. ordination to the episcopacy in Alexandria to cover When asked what he has enjoyed most about it for Bayou Catholic. While Bishop Jacobs was here, working for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, he didn’t really make any major changes, either,

‘

Louis has given generously of himself to me, to the diocese and to the church

,

a

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he says the people. “ … not only the people at the Pastoral Center, who are like my brothers and sisters, but all of the people, the priests, the clergy, the religious, and the people in the parishes and schools. It’s very energizing to feel like I am part of a family of 126,000 people. I’m really going to miss the interaction with the people. When you are in a professional relationship with people, you don’t even have to think about it, you know you’re going to see them every day. After I retire, it won’t be the same.”

36 There have been so many memorable moments over the last 39 years that Aguirre says he couldn’t pick just one or two. Some of the moments that stand out in his memory are Bishop Boudreaux blessing the original chancery building before they moved in; receiving Communion from Saint Pope John Paul II in New Orleans in 1987; Bishop Boudreaux removing his zucchetto during Mass and twirling it so that it landed perfectly on the altar, “because I knew it was his way of saying ‘this … being a bishop means nothing in front of our Savior’”; Bishop Boudreaux’s funeral, as his casket was brought to the four different corners of the diocese because he wanted to go to the people instead of the people coming to him just as he had in life; the ordination to the episcopacy and installation of Bishop Jarrell; the beautiful celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the diocese; saying goodbye to Bishop Jarrell with the whole staff outside of the Pastoral Center and watching as he drove off for Lafayette; greeting Bishop Jacobs in Morgan City the night before the announcement of his appointment was made; and welcoming Bishop Fabre to the diocese.

Aguirre has also attended every one of the fall bishop’s meetings since 1976. “Bishop Boudreaux believed that if he was to have a competent communications director it was important for me to be there to learn firsthand and be able to discuss with him afterward what was going on in the life of the national church.”

And, finally, Aguirre recalls the time when he was offered the job of executive director of the Catholic Press Association. “I went to tell Bishop Boudreaux, and being the emotional man that he was, his eyes Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Louis G. Aguirre and the Bayou Catholic staff pose with Bishop Shelton J. Fabre in 2015 with numerous awards received from the Catholic Press Association and the Louisiana Press Association. Staff members are, front row (from left) Aguirre, editor and general manager; Bishop Fabre, Lawrence Chatagnier, managing editor. Second row (from left) Lisa Schobel Hebert, graphic designer; Pat Keese, administrative assistant; Father Michael Bergeron, guest columnist; Janet Marcel, staff writer, and Peggy Adams, advertising manager.

teared up, and he just all of a sudden burst into song: ‘You picked a fine time to leave me, Lucille,’ (a famous Kenny Rogers tune). It was both a funny and touching moment.”

Establishing the Hispanic Ministry Office in the diocese, with Bishop Jarrell’s blessing, that now has a priest and three religious sisters who strive to minister to the people of God who speak Spanish is also something he is proud of.

“Seeing Hispanics come to this country under pretty much the same circumstances as I did, I wanted to be able to extend the church’s loving hand to those people the way it was done to me. So, being instrumental in creating an official office to serve the Hispanics of our diocese brings me great joy because I feel like I was able to, in some small way, return what was given to me. And to see how effective it has been to serve people who are in need, who don’t speak the language and don’t know where to turn, is a good feeling.”

After he retires he plans to spend more time with his family. He says he has an adventurous heart; he likes to travel and experience other people and other cultures. He also plans to continue doing volunteer work for Black and Indian Mission. “I just like the idea of the freedom of being able to do what I want to do, when I want to do it.”

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Copyright Š 2015, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photo: Š Gregorio Borgia/Reuters.

The collection will be held June 25 and 26.

Thank you for your generosity. www.bayoucatholic.com

Special

d e s s e l is b 38 Cardinal Place a new 55+ independent living

residential community in Thibodaux, recently had its Grand Opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony and blessing of the facility by Bishop Shelton J. Fabre and Very Rev. Jay L. Baker, V.G., pastor of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux. Ann Thibodaux, administrator of St. Joseph Manor/Cardinal Place, and Gerald Block, president of the board of directors of St. Joseph Manor/Cardinal Place, welcomed those who gathered and thanked all who helped make Cardinal Place possible.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Seminarian Education Burses

What is a seminarian burse fund?

A seminarian burse fund is an invested sum of money where the interest is used in perpetuity to help fund the education of men to the priesthood in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

How does someone establish a seminarian burse fund?

Very simply, a burse may be established and named for anyone you choose, be it family, friend, bishop, priest, deacon, religious, etc.

When is a seminarian burse complete?

A seminarian burse fund is complete once it reaches $15,000.

If you choose to continue to contribute, a new burse will be created for you.

Who do I contact to contribute to or establish a burse fund?

To contribute or establish a burse, send funds to Pastoral Center, Attn: Seminarian Burse, P. O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395 or call Jeremy Becker, Director of Stewardship and Development, at 985-850-3155 for more information.

Completed Burses of $15,000 each

Note: those wtih a number stipulates the number of completed burses* - Anonymous - Mr. & Mrs. C. Thomas Bienvenu - Harry Booker - Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux (3)* - Mr. Eledier Broussard - Rev. Adrian J. Caillouet - Rev. James Louis Caillouet - Bishop L. Abel Caillouet - Judge/Mrs L. P. Caillouet - Msgr. Lucien J. Caillouet - Abdon J. & Ada B. Callais - Harold & Gloria Callais Family - Paul A. Callais - Peter W. Callais - Vincent & Fannie Cannata - Minor Sr. & Lou Ella Cheramie - Maude & Edith Daspit - Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis family (3)* - Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis - C. Remie Duplantis

- Marie Elise Duplantis - Warren J. Harang, Jr. - Msgr. Raphael C. Labit - Msgr. Francis J. Legendre - Rev. Charles Menard - Dr. & Mrs. M.V. Marmande & Fly - Donald Peltier, Sr. (3)* - Harvey Peltier (30)* - Richard Peltier - The Peltier Foundation (4) - Orleans & Louella Pitre - Msgr. Joseph Wester - Robert R. Wright, Jr. - Rev. Kermit Trahan - St. Bernadette Men’s Club - Diocesan K of C - Leighton Delahaye - Mrs. Shirley Conrad - Bishop Shelton Fabre - Endowment Fund - $119,136.90

April 2016 Burse Contributions Joseph “Jay” Fertitta .......................................... $100.00 Jacob Marcello .................................................. $100.00 Edna W. DiSalvo ................................................. $50.00 Nick Lecompte just completed his sophomore year at St. Joseph Seminary College. He is a parishioner of Annunziata Church in Houma and attended Vandebilt Catholic High School.

Open Burses with Balance as of 4/30/16 Sidney J. & Lydie C. Duplantis ........... $13,000.00 Donald Peltier, Sr. #4 ............................ $13,000.00 Joseph Strada Memorial ...................... $12,642.63 Msgr. Raphael C. Labit #2 .................. $11,080.00 Harvey Peltier #31 .............................. $10,486.91 Joseph Waitz, Sr. ................................. $10,100.00 Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis #2 .......... $10,000.00 C. Remie Duplantis #2 ........................ $10,000.00 Marie Elise Duplantis #2 ..................... $10,000.00 Maude & Edith Daspit #2 .................... $10,000.00 Msgr. George A. Landry ...................... $10,000.00 Elie & Dot Klingman .............................. $8,960.00 Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier ................. $8,700.00 Rev. Victor Toth ..................................... $7,000.00 Brides of the Most Blessed Trinity ......... $6,165.00 Rev. Peter Nies ..................................... $5,900.00 Msgr. William Koninkx ........................... $5,700.00 Msgr. Francis Amedee ........................... $5,150.00 Mr. & Mrs. Love W. Pellegrin ................. $5,000.00 Anonymous #2 ...................................... $5,000.00 Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis Fmly.#4..... $5,000.00 Rev. William M. Fleming ........................ $5,000.00 Mrs. Ayres A. Champagne ..................... $5,000.00 Rev. Kasimir Chmielewski ..................... $4,839.00 Rev. Gerard Hayes ................................ $4,786.00 Catholic Daughters ................................ $4,705.00 Joseph “Jay” Fertitta .............................. $4,450.00 Rev. Guy Zeringue ................................ $4,400.00

Rev. Henry Naquin ................................. $4,331.00 Harry Booker #2 .................................... $4,138.00 Kelly Curole Frazier ............................... $3,610.96 J. R. Occhipinti ...................................... $3,400.00 Anawin Community ............................... $3,100.00 Msgr. James Songy ............................... $3,075.00 Mr. & Mrs. Galip Jacobs ........................ $3,060.00 St. Jude ................................................. $3,000.00 Diocesan K of C #2 ............................... $2,894.62 Rev. Peter H. Brewerton ........................ $2,600.00 Warren J. Harang, Jr. #2 ......................... $2,100.00 Willie & Emelda St. Pierre ...................... $2,000.00 St. Joseph Society ................................. $2,000.00 Rev. H. C. Paul Daigle ........................... $1,900.00 James J. Buquet, Jr. ............................... $1,650.00 Alfrances P. Martin ................................. $1,650.00 Preston & Gladys Webre ........................ $1,650.00 Msgr. Francis J. Legendre #2 ................ $1,645.00 Rev. Robert J. Sevigny .......................... $1,600.00 Rev. John Gallen .................................... $1,600.00 Rev. Hubert C. Broussard ...................... $1,550.00 Msgr. Emile J. Fossier ........................... $1,545.00 Dr. William Barlette, Sr........................... $1,525.00 Msgr. Stanislaus Manikowski ................ $1,525.00 Mr. & Mrs. John Marmande .................... $1,500.00 Deacon Robert Dusse’ ........................... $1,450.00 Msgr. John L. Newfield .......................... $1,200.00 Jacob Marcello ....................................... $1,200.00

Deacon Connely Duplantis ..................... $1,175.00 Rev. Anthony Rousso ............................. $1,150.00 Ronnie Haydel ....................................... $1,035.00 Rev. Clemens Schneider ....................... $1,000.00 Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux #4 ........... $1,000.00 Msgr. John G. Keller .............................. $1,000.00 Judge Louis & Shirley R. Watkins .............. $950.00 Deacon Willie Orgeron ............................. $800.00 Ruby Pierce .............................................. $800.00 Deacon Roland Dufrene ........................... $750.00 Juliette & Eugene Wallace ......................... $700.00 Deacon Edward J. Blanchard ................... $660.00 Deacon Raymond LeBouef ...................... $550.00 Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Cannata .................... $500.00 Edna W. DiSalvo ....................................... $450.00 Bernice Harang ......................................... $400.00 Anne Veron Aguirre ................................... $380.00 Deacon Harold Kurtz ................................ $300.00 Richard Peltier #2 ..................................... $300.00 Dean Joseph Chiasson ............................. $300.00 Claude Bergeron ...................................... $250.00 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Naquin .......................... $150.00 Deacon Pedro Pujals ................................ $100.00 Deacon Eldon Frazier .............................. $ 50.00 Deacon Nick Messina .............................. $ 50.00 Rev. Warren Chassaniol ........................... $ 50.00

Overall Seminarian Burse Totals: $1,568,571.02 www.bayoucatholic.com

39

Personalities

Superintendent of Catholic schools leaving at end of June proud of growth in spirituality

Marian B. Fertitta, who has devoted the past 46 years of her life to education, will be leaving her position as superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux at the end of this month. She served as assistant superintendent for the diocese from July 2006 until July 2011 when she was appointed superintendent.

“Perhaps the largest ministry that we as a diocese undertake is the ministry of our Catholic schools.

In her service to the Catholic schools in our diocese, especially during her time as superintendent, Marian 40 Fertitta has helped to shape the lives and the faith of the children who are served by our Catholic schools, assisting parents in their efforts to educate their children in the ways of faith,” says Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. “I express great gratitude to Marian for her untiring service and great commitment to Catholic education and for her service to our diocese and to the church. I pray that the Lord grant to Marian his abundant grace, blessing and peace.”

A native of Thibodaux, Fertitta and her eight siblings had a humble upbringing on Rienzi Plantation, where her father was the overseer. After graduating from Thibodaux High School, she decided she wanted to become a teacher so she enrolled at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux and was the first person in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree. She went on to obtain a master’s degree in elementary education, plus 30 hours from Nicholls State University. Fertitta has certification as a school superintendent, parish/city supervisor of instruction, provisional principal, provisional elementary principal, and supervision of child welfare and attendance.

She began her teaching career at South Thibodaux Elementary School where she remained as a classroom teacher for 25 years. She worked as Title I coordinator at the Lafourche Parish School Board Media Center in Lockport, as supervisor of technology

Story by Janet Marcel Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Marian B. Fertitta

and staff development for the Lafourche Parish School Board and supervisor of middle school education and student accountability. She retired in June 2006, after serving Lafourche Parish schools for 36 years.

Of her transition from teaching to working in the central office, she says it was really hard to leave the classroom. “I loved working with the students and it was very hard to leave that. I really missed being in the classroom; it was a big transition and I was lonesome for the students at times,” she says. “That’s one of the things I enjoy about being the superintendent. I get to visit the classrooms sometimes to see the students and what they’re doing.”

Working very closely with Sister Immaculata Paisant, M.S.C., former diocesan superintendent of 24 years, as her assistant prepared Fertitta well to assume her new role. “I was Sister Mac’s assistant for five years and I learned a lot from her. The Catholic schools were in a good place when I took over. Of course, making some of the decisions as the superintendent was hard in the beginning because I became the final say so … before the bishop, of course.”

Fertitta says she is very proud of the growth she has seen in the spirituality of the Catholic school students during her tenure as superintendent. “The students have not only gained knowledge about their faith, but they are also putting their faith into action in

a

many different ways.”

In 2009, the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux became the first diocese in the State of Louisiana to have all 13 of its Catholic schools accredited by AdvancED, and in 2010 it was the first diocese in the state to receive the distinction of diocesan accreditation as a quality school system. Fertitta says her most memorable moment while working with the Catholic schools was in 2010 when the AdvancED team presented the diocese with the accreditation report, plaque and flag. “It was just a beautiful culmination to all of the hard work by so many people who made the recognition possible.”

Fertitta says it’s hard to pinpoint one thing that she has enjoyed most about her ministry as superintendent of Catholic schools because she loved every bit of it.

She says what she will miss most are the people.

“I will miss the administrators, the teachers, the other superintendents, the priests, the students, and the staff members at the schools and here at the Pastoral Center. I have developed really close relationships with all of them and they have become like family to me. I have also enjoyed bringing the staff here at the Pastoral Center together on various occasions. I believe that fellowship and eating together as a staff is very important because it

‘

boosts morale. People appreciate it and I just think it helps them work together a whole lot better.”

She says that right now she is waiting to see where the Lord wants her next. “I just know there is another door that is going to open for me, even though I don’t know what it is yet. Future employment is not entirely out of the picture because I still feel like I have a lot to offer,” says Fertitta. “But, I may just be a full-time grandparent to my three grandchildren. I’ve always wanted to take up painting, so I plan to take some art lessons. I love to cook and read so I hope to do more of both of those things, also.”

Her husband Joe retired at the end of 2014, and she says this will be the first time since they were married 45 years ago that neither of them will be working, so that will be an adjustment, too. She says they plan to do some volunteer work and continue to be active in the community and in the church.

“Working in Catholic education has given me the opportunity to be able to continue in my profession as an educator, but most importantly it has allowed me to grow in faith and share my spirituality with those I work with on a daily basis,” says Fertitta.

“I hope that the new superintendent will continue with the good things that we have in place and improve on things for the future of Catholic education in our diocese.”

Students are putting their faith into action in many ways

,

www.bayoucatholic.com

41

Special

Lynn Beaudean

Cindy Blanchard

Mary Anne Goodwin

42

Mae Rose Chiasson

Marion Oncale

Rosita Dufrene

Sandi Prejean

Keri Dupre

Mona Vegas

Nine retiring from Catholic Schools Story by Janet Marcel Five educators and four staff member in the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux retired at the end of the 2015-2016 school year with 280 combined years of service in Catholic education.

Lynn Beaudean, who taught Kindergarten at Holy Cross Elementary School in Morgan City, retired after 45 years of service to the school.

Cindy Blanchard, who served as a teacher’s aide at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School in Houma, retired after 26 years of service to the school.

Mae Rose Chiasson, who served as a second grade teacher at Holy Rosary Elementary School in Larose, retired after 36 years of service to the school.

Rosita Dufrene, who served as the secretary at Holy Savior Elementary School in Lockport, retired after 28 years of service to the school.

Keri Dupre, who served as assistant principal of admissions and activities, assistant principal of discipline, resource director, math department chair, and taught 8th and 9th grade math and calculus AP, at Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma, retired after 21 years of service to the school.

Mary Anne Goodwin, who taught 5th and 6th grade English; 5th and 7th grade religion; 5th grade reading, and served as the computer literacy and technology director for grades K-7; and as administration liaison at St. Francis de Sales Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Cathedral School in Houma, retired after 31 years of service to the school.

Marion Oncale, who served as a teacher’s aide at Holy Savior Elementary School in Lockport, retired after 26 years of service to the school.

Sandi Prejean, who taught 8th and 9th grade physical science, 10th and 11th grade chemistry I honors, and 11th and 12th grade chemistry II honors, at Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma, retired after 31 years of service to the school.

Mona Vegas, who served as the advancement director at Holy Rosary Elementary School in Larose, retired after 36 years of service to the school.

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Twenty-two people from the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, including Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, are planning to attend the conference this year.

The five day conference will consist of keynote presentations, workshops, regional meetings, Mass, a reconciliation and healing service, and a Pow Wow. There is a separate agenda for youth ages four to 17.

Visit www.tekconf.org to register or for more information about the conference.

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Strategic Planning

Testimonial:

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Greetings to all the faithful of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, For those that do not know me, my name is Cody Chatagnier.

I Rev. Cody was recently Chatagnier ordained to the priesthood here in this beautiful diocese. In this article, I want to tell you why I am excited about the Strategic Plan going on now in our diocese.

If a general characteristic can be applied to all newly ordained priests, it is the characteristic of excitement. Being newly ordained, I have an excitement to “get to work.” A few things fuel this excitement. First, I have been in school for a long time and I am

Enter planning process with enthusiasm

ready to put all the things I have learned in the seminary into practice. Second, I am beginning to transition out of seminary life and into parish life; and that transition is something new, which for me cultivates excitement. But, most of all, I am excited about priestly life because our diocese is in a process of renewal.

Back in December, Very Rev. Mark Toups gathered all of the seminarians together and gave us a presentation about our diocese’s past, present and future. I am sure most of you have seen the shocking number of the decline in the Catholic population and the decline in Mass attendance. These numbers did not shock me that much because I knew that this was the trend throughout the United States. Over the last 50 years, the Catholic Church in the United

States has been beaten by public perception due to scandal and a lack of pastoral response. Now is the time for renewal.

You probably do not know this, but seminarians these days have benefitted greatly from the excellent education you have provided for us. Certain seminarians have specialties in different fields of theology. My specialty is historical theology. If you look at history, patterns form that show that when the church is under attack, God and the faithful respond. Thus, if the church is under attack in the United States, then it is time to trust that God will give us the grace and ability to respond because Jesus Christ promised that he will not leave us alone, and he promised that the gates of the netherworld will not prevail against the church.

That is why I am excited

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about this Strategic Plan because I see it as an opportunity for renewal and evangelization. For those that do not know me personally, I am a man that likes knowing what is coming next … let’s just say, I hate surprise parties. I love to know in what direction I need to go, and I believe the Strategic Plan will give us direction. I am also excited because I believe the Strategic Plan will renew our diocese for years to come.

Hopefully with the grace of God, I will be a priest for over 50 years in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

I hope that period will be marked with renewal and growth for our diocese. When I was young, I was part of the Boy Scouts of America; in that organization we learned to leave a campsite better than we found it.

This is my hope for the diocese, to have more people coming to the sacraments at the end of my earthly ministry than at the beginning.

So, I want to encourage all of us to enter into this planning process with the same enthusiasm as we enter into the things we love in this life. For if we truly love God, we will support the church he has established.

If we are true disciples of Christ, we will enter into this planning process, which will give us a greater understanding of what it means to be a disciple. I don’t know about you, but I long to bring Christ to all in our diocese, and the Strategic Plan will help us all to be better disciples.

With grace, peace and enthusiasm, Rev. Cody Chatagnier Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

y a D s ’ Father r v es se Dad de est the b

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www.bayoucatholic.com

JUNE

JULY

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n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, July 5, Ellendale Country Club Restaurant, 3319 Highway 311, Schriever, 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Speaker, Rev. Wilmer Todd. n Kateri Mass, Friday, July 8, Holy Family, Grand Caillou, 6:30 p.m. A reception will follow at the gym. n Men’s Come and See Weekend, July 9-10, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales Convent, Houma. For more information call the Office of Vocations at (958)850-3157. n Christian Leadership Institute 2016 (CLI) will be held from July 13-17 at Lumen Christi Retreat Center’s Souby Building, Schriever. CLI is open to upcoming 10th, 11th and 12th graders. Cost is $225 which includes lodging, two t-shirts, meals and activities.

Registration forms can be found at www.htdiocese.org/cli-2016.

Deadline to register is June 24.

For more information contact the Office of Youth Ministry at (985)850-3151.

August

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, Aug. 2, Ellendale Country Club Restaurant, 3319 Highway 311, Schriever, 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Speaker, Rev. Rober t Rogers. n Women’s Come and See Weekend, Aug. 13-14, Cathedral of St. Francis de

help people who are interested in starting a small business.

It will be held one evening a week for nine weeks. A different business topic will be discussed each week. Anyone who is interested in participating should call Brooks Lirette at (985) 8760490 to schedule an orientation appointment. n Life in the Spirit Seminar,

Saturday, June 11, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales Youth Center, Houma. For more information contact renewalinfo@ htdiocese.org or call (985) 8564269. n Jon Stemkoski’s Celebrant Singers, live in concert, St. Genevieve Catholic Church, Thibodaux, Tuesday, June 28 at 7 p.m.

n Adult Faith Formation: God: The Trinity and Revelation, Monday, July 18, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.- Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: The Bible: Old Testament and Jesus in the Gospels, Tuesday, July 19, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: Authority (Tradition and Magisterium), Freedom and Law, Wednesday, July 20, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: Human Person: The Beatitudes and the Call to Holiness, Thursday, July 21, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: Blessed Virgin Mary and the Church, Friday, July 22, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: The

Commandments 1-3, Monday, July 25, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: The Commandments 4-10, Tuesday, July 26, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: Initiation – Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, Wednesday, July 27, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: Healing – Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick, Thursday, July 28, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon. n Adult Faith Formation: Service – Matrimony and Holy Orders, Here I am Lord, Please Help!, Friday, July 29, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, Schriever, 9 a.m.-Noon, with distribution of certificates and prayer service.

Sales Convent, Houma. For more information call the Office of Vocations at (958)850-3157 n Acadian Mass, Monday, Aug. 15, 6 p.m., St. Hilary of Poitiers, Mathews. n RCIA Workshop, Saturday, Aug. 20, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., diocesan Pastoral Center

Conference Hall, Schriever.

DIOCESAN

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, June 7, Ellendale Country Club Restaurant, 3319 Highway 311, Schriever, 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Speaker, Rev. Michael Bergeron. n C.E.N.T.S. will be offering the Small Business Course beginning in June through Catholic Charities Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

This free course is designed to

n Adult Faith Formation: Scripture II, Wednesdays, Aug.

24 and 31, diocesan Pastoral Center

Conference

Hall,

Schriever, 6-8:15 p.m. Speaker, Deacon John Pippenger.

www.bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

EVENTS

Food for Journey July 5 at Ellendale

Rev. Wilmer Todd

The diocesan Office of Religious Education sponsors a monthly lunchtime speaker series on the first Tuesday of the month. The event is now being held at the Ellendale Country Club Restaurant located at 3319 Highway 311 in Schriever.

The speaker for July 5 is New Orleans native Rev. Wilmer L. Todd.

Father Todd, who retired from active ministry in June 2007 after almost 44 years of service to the people in Southeast Louisiana, is currently serving as pastor of St. Joseph Church parish in Chauvin.

He attended Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans and was ordained to the priesthood Dec. 21, 1963.

He also has a master’s degree in education and is a certified teacher.

Father Todd’s first assignment was as associate pastor of St. Joseph

Church parish in Chauvin. He also served as pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas in Thibodaux, Holy Cross in Morgan City, St. Bernadette in Houma, and St. Genevieve and St. Luke in Thibodaux.

Those who plan to attend the July 5 event should RSVP with their name, phone number and church parish by Thursday, June 30. To RSVP, email FoodForTheJourney@ htdiocese.org or call (985) 8503178.

Doors open at 10:45 a.m. Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m. The program begins at Noon with the speaker’s presentation from 12:10-12:45 p.m.

Cost is $15 and includes meal, drink and tip. Only cash or checks will be accepted.

All are invited to come “eat and be fed.”

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Special

2016 summer Adult Faith Formation program announced

By Dr. Faith Ann Spinella Have you ever considered taking classes to increase your knowledge of and improve your understanding of the church, as well as to strengthen your faith? In response to a number of requests for the Office of Religious Education to offer daytime classes for its Adult Faith Formation program, this year’s Faith Enrichment Level has been scheduled for July 18 through July 29 at the diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall in Schriever from 9 a.m. to Noon each weekday.

The Diocese of HoumaThibodaux’s Adult Faith Formation program provides participants with an opportunity to grow deeper in their love for Jesus Christ through knowledge of his word 48 and his church. The first level of the program, Faith Enrichment, offers students a comprehensive introduction to the Catholic faith, as well as effective catechesis. The presenter for the summer session will be Father Joey Pilola.

If you are interested in receiving certification for your work this summer, the Faith Enrichment Level of the Adult Faith Formation program is the entry level certification program for directors of religious education (DREs), coordinators of religious education (CREs), catechists, lay ministers and Catholic school teachers. If you are not seeking certification, please attend to enjoy the opportunity to learn along with your friends. To receive basic catechist certification participants must attend all classes and complete all assignments.

The session is $50 plus the cost of books. Required textbooks are the New American Bible, Catechism of the Catholic Church and Introduction to Catholicism for Adults.

Registration forms can be found at www.htdiocese.org, by going to Ministries, Religious Education, then Adult Faith Formation.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Following are the classes included in the Faith Enrichment level of the Adult Faith Formation program:

Date Topic

July 18 God: The Trinity & Revelation

July 19 The Bible: Old Testament & Jesus in the Gospels

July 20 Authority (Tradition & Magisterium), Freedom, & Law

July 21

Human Person: The Beatitudes & The Call to Holiness

July 22

Blessed Virgin Mary and the Church

July 25

The Commandments 1—3

July 26

The Commandments 4—10

July 27

Initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist

July 28

Healing—Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick

July 29

Service—Matrimony and Holy Orders Here I am Lord, Please Help!

Distribution of Certificates and Prayer Service Registration is due by July 1, so that textbooks can be ordered in time for the beginning of classes.

For more information, please feel free to contact me at (985) 8503145 or Rhona Clement at (985) 850-3122 in the Office of Religious Education.

We look forward to spending the summer session with you. Come and enjoy these days with us and with Father Pilola. Won’t it be a great summer if you can spend some time focusing on Jesus and strengthening your Catholic faith?

Celebrations announced for Anniversary The official diocesan 40th anniversary logo shown above will be used throughout 2017 to mark the celebratory year. Some important events that will take place during the anniversary year include an ordination to the priesthood, June 3, at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux; the 40th anniversary prayer service on the same day at 7 p.m., at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral; and the 40th anniversary Mass, June 4, at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

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Special

Guest Columnist

T 50

Father Joey Pilola

The following is part one of a two part series.

The Amoris Laetitia (which is Latin for “The Joy of Love”) is Pope Francis’ response to two Synods (meetings in 2014 and 2015) of the world’s bishops as they discussed the Family in the Modern World. Pope Francis arranged Amoris Laetitia (a 264 page document) in a way that gives guidance, encouragement and hope to the modern family.

In this article I will be focusing on its practical application for today’s marriage and family.

First of all, the Scriptures elevate our understanding of the family and marriage. This understanding can give us a better understanding of who God is and what God is to us.

“The Bible is full of families, births, love stories and family crises” (No. 8). It must be stated the foundation of the Christian family is marriage as restored by Christ. From the book of Genesis to the book of Revelation, we see families are built upon marriages.

“The Trinitarian dimension finds expression in the theology of St. Paul, who relates the couple to the ‘mystery’ of the union of Christ and the church (cf.

Ephesians 5:21-33).” It appears the plan of God for the human race is revealed in the family.

In natural circumstances, from the mutual, exclusive, self-giving love shared between a man and woman, children are born and the family comes into being. “The ability of human couples to beget life is the path along which the history of salvation progresses.

Seen this way, the couple’s fruitful relationship becomes an image for understanding and describing the mystery of God himself, for in the Christian vison of the Trinity, God is contemplated as Father,

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

The Joy of Love

~ Part One ~

Son and Spirit of love. The triune God is a communion of love, and the family is its living reflection.”

Pope Francis goes on to quote St. John Paul II, “Our God in his deepest mystery is not solitude, but a family, for he has within himself fatherhood, sonship and the essence of the family, which is love. That love, in the divine family is the Holy Spirit” (No. 11).

Now every family will realistically have its own burdens and trials.

But the divine love that is poured out on us by the Holy Spirit can help us overcome all difficulties we face as families grow in love with each other.

“Every family should look to the icon of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Its daily life had its share of burdens and even nightmares, as when they met with Herod’s implacable violence. … Like the Magi, our families are invited to contemplate the Child and his Mother, to bow down and worship him (cf. Matthew 2:11). Like

Mary, they are asked to face their family’s challenges with courage and serenity, in good times and bad, and to keep in their heart the great things which God has done (cf. Luke 2:19, 51). The treasury of Mary’s heart also contains the experiences of every family, which she cherishes. For this reason, she can help us understand the meaning of these experiences and to hear the message God wishes to communicate through the life of our families” (No. 30).

In Chapter IV of Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis leads us in a meditation of true love required of all marriages and families. In St. Paul’s letter I Corinthians 13, we have the classic description of the qualities of love. As you look at these different aspects of love, note the importance of “choosing to love” the other person over your own needs, wants or expectations.

I offer you these excerpts for your meditation.

a

Love is patient “We encounter problems whenever we think that relationships or people ought to be perfect, or when we put ourselves at the center and expect things to turn out our way. … Patience takes root when I recognize that other people also have a right to live in this world, just as they are.

It does not matter if they hold me back, if they unsettle my plans, or annoy me by the way they act or think, or if they are not everything I want them to be. Love always has an aspect of deep compassion that leads to accepting the other person as part of this world, even when he or she acts differently than I would like” (No. 92).

Love is at the service of others “… Love benefits and helps others.

For this reason it is translated as ‘kind’; love is ever ready to be of assistance” (No. 93). “Throughout the text (of I Corinthians 13), it is clear that Paul wants to stress that love is more than a mere feeling.

Rather, it should be understood along the lines of the Hebrew verb “to love”; it is “to do good.” As Saint Ignatius of Loyola said, “Love is shown more by deeds than by words” (No. 94).

Love is not jealous (envious) “True love values the other person’s achievements. It does not see him or her as a threat. It frees us from the sour taste of envy.

It recognizes that everyone has different gifts and a unique path in life. So it strives to discover its own road to happiness, while allowing others to find theirs” (No. 95).

Love is not boastful “Those who love not only refrain from speaking too much about themselves, but are focused on others; they do not need to be the center of attention” (No. 97).

“It is important for Christians to show their love by the way they treat family members who are less knowledgeable about the faith, weak or less sure in their convictions. At times the opposite occurs: the supposedly mature believers within the family become unbearably arrogant. Love, on the other hand, is marked by humility; if we are to understand, forgive and serve others from the heart, our pride has to be healed and our humility must increase. … In family life, the logic of domination and competition about who is the most intelligent or powerful destroys love” (No. 98).

Love is not rude “Love abhors making others suffer. Courtesy ‘is a school of sensitivity (to others) and disinterestedness (not looking toward one’s own wants or wishes)’ which requires a person ‘to develop his or her mind and feelings, learning how to listen, to speak and, at certain times, to keep quiet.’ It is not something that a Christian may accept or reject. As an essential requirement of love, ‘every human being is bound to live agreeably with those around him’” (No. 99). In other words, love treats others so kind and respectful they want to stay around you. Rudeness will push them away.

(Father Joey Pilola is the pastor of Maria Immacolata Church parish in Houma.)

Sister Lucie Leonard dies at 88 Sister Lucie Leonard, O.Carm., a native of Thibodaux, died March 18, at the age of 88. She was in the 69th year of her religious profession. Sister Lucie served in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux as a nurse at St. Joseph Hospital in Thibodaux. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at the Our Lady of Wisdom Healthcare Center in New Orleans. She was interred at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. Please keep Sister Lucie’s family in your prayers.

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Church Alive

Strategic Planning = Pastoral Revitalization Story by Janet Marcel Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

After listening carefully to the thoughts and concerns of the people of the diocese for two years, and studying the statistical trends of Catholics leaving the church not only in this country but also in this diocese, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre along with other diocesan leaders decided it was time to make some changes.

“We need a process where clergy and laity come together to affirm the mission of our church and pursue a renewed course of action true to our time and place. That is the work of strategic planning; it is a ‘coming together’ of our church family for prayerful consideration of the challenges and opportunities 52 before us, and for thoughtful deliberation of our plan of action.

With God’s help this strategic planning effort can be for the Bishop Shelton Fabre addresses meeting attendees.

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, the beginning of an exciting work of pastoral revitalization, one that will enable us to team has listened to well over 1,000 people and one face the challenges of the present with enthusiasm, of the things that has been said over and over again and to prepare for the challenges of the future with is that the people want better homilies and a more confidence,” says Bishop Fabre in his Pastoral Letter vibrant Sunday Mass experience. And, the priests regarding the diocesan strategic plan. have said that they feel ill-equipped to do everything In October 2015, Very Rev. Mark Toups was they need to do; they have degrees in theology, but appointed as the new diocesan chancellor and as they are being called to be CEOs of their parishes. So, such was charged with leading the strategic planning if the priests are going to have more time to prepare process. Father Toups got busy right away meeting better homilies, church parishes need to somehow be with the diocesan priests and various other groups of restructured. people throughout the diocese to determine the major That is just one example of the kind of challenges areas that needed to be addressed in the plan. the strategic plan is going to address, says Father When the diocese was established in 1977, Catholics Toups. made up 67 percent of the population. In 2015, only From the listening sessions that were held 48 percent of the population was Catholic. When throughout the diocese, 12 major “needs” have been the diocesan census was taken in 2004, 24 percent identified. Commissions were formed and work has of Catholics were attending Mass on Sunday, which begun on six of these areas: church parish life, adult was 13 percent of the general population. In 2015, 21 and young adult formation; youth formation, priests, percent of Catholics were attending Mass on Sunday, diocesan governance, and stewardship. which was only 10 percent of the general population.

The remaining six commissions, which will kick “At this point, we all know we must do more than off the week after Labor Day 2016, will address the just have conversations about why people are leaving remaining six areas: Sunday (liturgy and preaching), the church,” says Father Toups. “Historically, the Catholic education, vocations, deacons, outreach/ church has been telling us that we need to form Catholic charities, and cultural diversity. disciples, so we need to figure out what the people Every commission is made up of a leadership team: need from the church to live like disciples.” a facilitator, a priest advisory council member, a lay Father Toups explains that the strategic planning chairperson, a diocesan liaison and an Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

a

Very Rev. Mark Toups, diocesan chancellor, explains the goals of the strategic plan to those who recently attended a commission meeting at the Pastoral Center in Schriever.

In the photo below Ann Voisin, a parishioner of Annunziata Church parish in Houma, shares her thoughts about parish life with the group.

administrative support person, with an average of 60 other people from across the diocese serving on each commission.

Currently, the first six commissions are researching what challenges might be encountered along the road to success in these different areas and what are some solutions to these challenges.

The first six commissions will present their ideas/ recommendations at the first Priests Convocation that will meet August 1-4, 2016, and then they will do more research and begin working on a plan tailored to this diocese’s specific needs.

The remaining six commissions will present to the second Priests Convocation in February 2017, and then they will begin finalizing their plans.

The entire diocesan strategic plan will be presented during the months of March and April next year, and it will be in place when the diocese celebrates its 40th anniversary in June 2017.

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www.bayoucatholic.com

Special

2015 Steubenville on the Bayou

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Steubenville on the Bayou Nonprofit organization will oversee event beginning 2017 Story by Janet Marcel ~ Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier Steubenville Catholic Youth Conferences, which are both logistically and financially, beginning in 2017. an outreach of Franciscan University of Steubenville, “Steubenville on the Bayou is a blessing for Ohio, originally started off being coCatholics in our area, especially our sponsored by dioceses. Over the years, young people. The weekend’s program more and more of the Conferences helps to enrich the spirituality of started operating in partnership with thousands of our youth, as well as Steubenville nonprofit organizations mainly because those who give of their time and on the Bayou as part of a diocese, it is limited talent to volunteer,” says Bishop to the amount of fundraising and Fabre. “Its success impacts not is a blessing sponsorships it can get. Since the midonly our own participants but also 1980s, the majority of the Conferences those who come from near and far to for Catholics across North America have shifted experience true southern hospitality in our area back to operating in partnership with combined with outstanding nonprofit organizations. opportunities for spiritual growth.”

Shawn Lapeyrouse, conference The nonprofit organization, Lift 3:16 director for the diocesan Conference (For God so loved the world), which Bishop Shelton Fabre Office, recently presented Bishop will be run by a board of directors, Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Shelton J. Fabre with the idea of will be a completely separate entity forming a nonprofit organization from the diocese, but will have the to oversee the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s blessing of the diocese.

Steubenville on the Bayou Catholic Youth Conference, “We have no intentions of operating without the

‘

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

,

a

blessing and participation of the bishop and priests of our diocese,” says Lapeyrouse. “We will still follow everything the bishop wants regarding liturgy, Safe Environment training and any other diocesan policies.

Basically, it will still be the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux’s Conference. As a nonprofit, we are not stepping into something that isn’t already established.

When we started this in 2006, there were so many unknowns and now this year’s Conference marks the 11th one in the diocese, so we have a pretty good grasp on what to expect.”

Franciscan University always does the programming and the organizing of the speakers, and that will continue, adds Lapeyrouse.

As the bishop who introduced the Conference to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs, says he still plans to be in relationship with the nonprofit organization and to support Lapeyrouse as a spiritual director in her new ministry.

“I respect the wishes of Shawn and Bishop Fabre’s decision in making these changes, which will free the Conference to be in relationship with the diocese but as a separate entity that is able to raise money to help

in expanding its outreach. Knowing the importance of the bishop’s support for the Conference, I hope that the church parishes will still work with Lift 3:16 as it strives to continue to serve the youth of the diocese,” says Bishop Jacobs.

As part of Lift 3:16, Lapeyrouse will also be able to endorse the Conference in other dioceses by going there and hosting a worship night or other events to promote it. However, their first priority will still be to promote it within the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

Bishop Fabre says that he supports the event and the youth, and everyone involved feels that it is a good move for the Conference.

“Although beginning in 2017, Steubenville will no longer be a ministry of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, I am delighted to know that it will continue to be presented in our area as a Catholic gathering for young people. I wish Lift 3:16 and Franciscan University much success in their endeavors,” says Bishop Fabre.

Lift 3:16’s contact information will be announced after this month’s conference. The website, www. steubenvilleconferences.com, will remain the same.

55

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

E.D. White science lab to be refurbished A contract signing was held recently for the total refurbishment of all of the science labs at E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux. The refurbishment will encompass five laboratories, two storage areas and a science library. The new stateof-the-art science labs will be named the Jeanette Labat Science Corridor after longtime science teacher and administrator Jeanette Labat who worked at Mt. Carmel and E.D. White for 40 years. This $800,000 project is made possible by the many donations from alumni, friends and supporters of E.D. White. Attending the signing are Maria Cruse, advisory council president; Very Rev. Jay L. Baker, V.G.; Josh Payton, operations manager, NYCOM, Inc.; and Marian Fertitta, diocesan superintendent. Back row from left, Jimmie Danos, diocesan director of the Office of Building and Construction; Michelle Chiasson, principal; and Tim Robichaux, president. www.bayoucatholic.com

School Life

E.D. White girls gymnastics is Number One The E.D. White Catholic High School girls’ gymnastics team took first place in Division II, Level 4 in a recent state meet in Baton Rouge. The Lady Cardinals team score of 113.60 secured the first place title. E.D. White moderator Laura Clapp said the team had an excellent meet.

56

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

53 E.D.W. students receive scholarships

The second annual E.D. White Academic Scholarship Signing Day was held recently at E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux in the school’s Student Union. Fifty-three students who were offered one or more scholarships from a college or university for academic or leadership reasons were acknowledged. Each senior had his/her own table, and at least one table sign indicating the college from which they accepted a scholarship.

Seniors attending the signing day are: Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge: Colby Andras, Caroline Cruse, Jack Eroche, Bradley Hamilton, Hayden Piper, Andrew Soignet, Whitney Sternfels; University of Louisiana-Lafayette: Riley Andrews, Jeanne Badeaux, Tyler Benoit, Ian Coats, Gabrielle Dubois, Luke Konur, Pearce Martin, Evan Richard, Claire Robichaux, Nicolas Santiny, Joseph Schonacher; University of Louisiana-Monroe: Bradley Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016

Benoit, Taylor Foret, Taylor Foret, Adelyne Labat, Rhae Sevin; Nicholls State University, Thibodaux: Caroline Babin, Marlee Babin, Cameron Gregory, Collin Borne, Emily Boudreaux, Abbey Bourgeois, Emma Bourgeois, Collin Brazan, Holden Cortez, Jay Danos, Gabrielle Durocher, Dylan Falgoust, Samantha Folse, Noah Laiche, Richard Martin II, Ross Martin, Rebecca Menge, Brianna Millet, Alec Naquin, Jeremy Rounds, Courtney Sylvest, Brianne Thibodeaux, Connor Ward; Franciscan University, Ohio: Shelby Ellis; Northern Arizona University, Arizona: Luke Labat; University of Central Arkansas, Arkansas: Brendan Roth; Auburn University, Alabama: Megan Waguespack; Louisiana College: Ashlynn Folse; Beloit College, Wisconsin: Benjamin Sposito; Concordia University, Oregon: Michael Thalheim; Eckerd College, Florida: Taylor Wagner.

Nation

New nuncio to the United States ready to learn, promote church

By Cindy Wooden

Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the new nuncio to the United States, said he is ready to learn about the Catholic Church in the country and will try his best to be Pope Francis’ emissary, particularly in promoting a church that is close to those who suffer.

The archbishop, who had a private meeting at the Vatican with Pope Francis April 21, gave interviews the next day to the English and the Italian programs of Vatican Radio.

The 70-year-old French native has been in the Vatican diplomatic corps for almost 40 years and said a nuncio’s job is to help the pope fulfill his ministry of building up the local churches, respecting their diversity, while keeping them united with the universal church.

“The difficulty or the challenge,” he said, is “to listen, to be careful about what’s going on, to understand, to exercise dialogue -- I think that’s very important -- to discover the beauty, the richness of the culture of the people, the way the people live (and) to help the inculturation of the Gospel in a particular culture.”

At the same time, he said, a nuncio’s mission is “to help the pope understand -- the pope and those that work with him -- to understand what’s going on.”

“The richness of the Catholic Church,” Archbishop Pierre said, comes from that combination of valuing peoples and cultures and their local expressions of faith while being united universally.

The archbishop told Vatican Radio’s English program, “I’m quite excited -- sometimes fearful,” about leaving Mexico and going to the United States. He said his reaction was “oh” when the pope told him of his new assignment “because it’s such a big country, such a big his-

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CNS PHOTO/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO

Pope Francis poses with Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the new apostolic nuncio to the United States, during an April 21 meeting at the Vatican.

tory, but you know I’m trustful in God and very, very grateful for this mission which is given to me.”

“I know I have to learn in the same way that when I arrived in Mexico nine years ago I had to learn a lot and I’m still learning, so I’m sure that during this year the American people -- particularly the bishops, the priests, the religious, the laypeople -- will be my teachers,” he said. “I’m ready to learn.”

The first mission the pope gives his nuncios, and the whole church, obviously is to proclaim the Gospel, he said. Next there is “the way the

pope wants us and the church to be close to people, especially those who suffer, the poor. This is also what I’ve perceived in what he has told me and I will try my best to be a faithful emissary of the pope.”

Speaking to the Italian program, Archbishop Pierre said being nuncio to the United States is “an enormous, difficult” ministry, but he is ready to take up the task. “The first thing is to learn, to listen, and I think that one of the qualities the pope asks of us is to be able to listen and not go in with preconceived ideas.” www.bayoucatholic.com

Sports

Overtime

W 58

Ed Daniels

Well, the spigots are now open. And, summer vacation for high school players and college coaches, gets even shorter.

The NCAA has lifted the ban on college football programs running satellite camps.

And, those coaches who were so adamantly opposed to the alleged shenanigans of Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, are now diving in head first.

Can I ask a few questions?

Even though the cost of the camps is supposedly nominal, who pays for the cost of getting a high school player from New Orleans to Dallas?

What affect do these camps have on high school football?

The answer to the last question is, not good.

A high school player will have less time to work in the summer with his high school football coaches. Remember them?

They are the guys who work with a student nearly 12 months a year, only to hear that one of their players went to a camp and was told they can’t believe your high school coach isn’t getting you more offers.

A high school coach at a

SINCE FAST st Intere Free cing Finan

What effect do camps have on high school football? prominent Louisiana school, who preferred to remain anonymous, told me he has four main jobs, and none of the four involve making sure his players gets a college scholarship.

He said his first goal was to make sure his player gets a high school diploma. Two, was to win a state championship. Three, was to run a solid, respected program, and four was to make sure he and his staff, taught his players how to be solid citizens.

In the meantime, the high school game itself takes a back seat to recruiting.

In some media circles, player X isn’t a member of a high school team, he is identified as a (fill in the name of the school) commitment.

A week seven game in the regular season against an archrival takes a back seat to that player announcing that he has narrowed his choice of college schools down to 10.

And, at some point soon, he’ll decide on his five visits.

I have witnessed a lot of really good high school football teams underachieve because their team

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was pre-occupied with recruiting.

On the day before a state championship game in the Superdome, I told an assistant coach his best ally in the game was the other team’s lack of focus.

The next day, the focused team won.

Two players on the other team were supposedly superstars, who in three years were surefire first round picks in the NFL draft.

Both have achieved little in college.

They believed the hype.

Over the years, I have had more than my share of parents and their friends, tell me that the head coach at a particular high school wasn’t doing right by their child.

One was a nice high school player who didn’t get any offers after a very solid career at a prominent local school.

That athlete is now a doctor, and from what I hear, a very accomplished one.

Turns out that coach knew what his players could and could not do. ​Something you are not likely to find out at a satellite camp.

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STEVE DECELL

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • June 2016