July 2013 Bayou Catholic Issue

Bayou

Catholic

The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Salvation God’s greatest gift

HOUMA, LA ~ JULY 2013 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Contents

On Our Cover In this month’s column, Bishop Sam G. Jacobs reminds us that “We are saved by God’s action alone but we may not experience that salvation at the end of our life, if we do not respond to the gift during our life. Just as we were created without our consent, we are still responsible for our life after that.”

Msgr. Donald Ledet

Steubenville on the Bayou Over 3,000 strong

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Missionary Childhood Association Children helping children

Planned Parenthood Facility

50 years as a priest

Gold shovels of death

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42 Back to School

Our Churches

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Our Lady of Prompt Succor Golden Meadow

• Pope Speaks

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• Question Corner

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Schools, students prepare for upcoming year

• Reflections

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• Diocesan Events

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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

Bayou Catholic Vol. 33, No. 1 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

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.

• Seeing Clairely

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• Overtime

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Louis G. Aguirre

editor and general manager Lawrence Chatagnier

managing editor Glenn J. Landry, C.P.A.

business manager Peggy Adams

advertising manager Janet Marcel

staff writer Pat Keese

secretary and circulation Lisa Schobel Hebert

graphic designer Janet B. Eschete

accounts payable assistant Meridy Liner

accounts receivable assistant

Where to find us Bayou Catholic magazine can be found at all Catholic churches in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and at the three Catholic high schools in Houma, Morgan City and Thibodaux. 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.

Index to Advertisers Advanced Eye Institute ......................19 Annual Bishop’s Appeal .......................9 Asbestos Notice ..................................48 Beehive Behavioral Health, LLC ........38 Bueche’s Jewelry ...............................21 Busy Bee Clinic ..................................35 Cannata’s .............................................3 Catholic Schools .................................47 Catholic Schools Annual Fund Drive .. 55 Cenacle Retreats ................................21 Channel 10 .........................................25 Conference Office Events ..................41 Conference Office-Man of God ..........30 Daigle Himel Daigle ............................54 Diocesan Outreach Line ......................5 Diocesan Website ..............................33 Dr. Neil Maki Orthopaedics .................43 Fabregas Music ..................................45 Family Vision Clinic..............................50 Felger’s Footwear ...............................51 Headache & Pain Center ...................39 Lafourche Ford Lincoln .......................49 Larry J. Verdun, D.D.S. ........................48 LeBlanc & Associates, Inc. ................30 Lirette Ford Lincoln .............................53 Lynn’s Little Feet .................................45 Mpress ...............................................35 Re-Bath ..............................................20 Rod’s Superstore ...............................37 SEECA ..................................................2 Seminarian Burses .............................27 Southland Mall ...................................56 Spotlight .............................................31 St. Joseph Manor ...............................31 Synergy Bank ......................................52 Terminix ..............................................38 Terrebonne General Medical Center-Kent Bourg ............................23 Thibodaux Physical Therapy ..............44

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.

For detailed reporting procedures see: www.htdiocese.org.

Click on the Safe Environment tab, then on S.E. Forms and Links.

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 HoumaThibodaux.

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.

Vea el detallado procedimiento de informes en: www.htdiocese.org.

Haga clic en Safe Environment y luego S.E. Forms and Links.

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.

Caàn bieát theâm chi tieát veà caùch baùo caùo xin vaøo trang web cuûa ñòa phaän laø www.htdiocese.org.

Baám vaøo muïc Safe Environment, sau ñoù tôùi muïc S.E. Forms vaø Links. www.bayoucatholic.com

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Welcome

Editor’s Corner Louis G. Aguirre Editor & General Manager

Congratulations

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Why do we observe anniversaries? The answer is simple: It is a way to recognize, remember, reflect and celebrate life’s special achievements.

Bishops, priests, deacons and religious celebrating anniversaries are particularly important to us Catholics because they give us an opportunity to express our gratitude to those who have made a difference in our lives. A life devoted to Christ and to serving others is a magnificent time for rejoicing by everyone.

One such servant of great significance to us here in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is Bishop Joseph N. Latino of Jackson.

Bishop Latino, who this year celebrates 50 years of priesthood and his 10th as bishop, is well known and loved in these parts as he served in many capacities, including as pastor of St. Bernadette Church parish in Houma and later at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales. Diocesan-level capacities included being chancellor and vicar general.

In a message published in the Jackson diocesan newspaper, Mississippi Catholic, Bishop Sam G. Jacobs wrote: “Congratulations Bishop Latino!

“As you celebrate your Golden Jubilee of Priestly Ordination, I am sure you have many memories — both full of joy and some with sorrow. I suspect your memories of great joy include the many ways God has blessed and loved you on your life-journey. I suspect your times of sorrow would include, like all of us, the times we didn’t respond as fully to God’s love as we wanted to. But hopefully, the many joys of your priestly ministry will far outweigh the few times of sorrow. Can anyone count the number of people you have touched or the number of Masses you have celebrated in your lifetime as a priest?

“How many sons and daughters of God have you been blessed to become a spiritual father to in the waters of baptism? How many signs of absolution have you imparted over God’s people in the name of Jesus, the Reconciler?

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

How many marriages have you instructed and witnessed for validity? How many people have you laid your hands on and anointed with the Oil of Chrism in baptism, confirmation and ordination? Who can count the number you have anointed with the Oil of the Sick, through which God’s healing power was experienced? How about the countless number over the years you have counseled, visited, encouraged, laughed and cried with as the true Shepherd you are?

“All of these and more are the ones who say thanks for being a priest of God. All of these and more will stand with you before the Lord to express their gratitude and their love. Ad Multos Annos!”

Bishop Latino has been suffering from complications from back surgery and has been in the hospital – now in rehabilitation – since Good Friday. He epitomizes what it means to be a Catholic: strong in faith, deep joy in his ministry, able to accept and offer his sufferings for others.

All of us here say: Bishop Latino, we love you and ask that God continue to bless you for many, many years!

Bayou Spirit

Steubenville on the Bayou Over 3,000 strong

The eighth annual Steubenville on the Bayou Catholic Youth Conference was held recently at the HoumaTerrebonne Civic Center in Houma.

Father Louis Merosne from Haiti spoke to the youth on Saturday. Bishop Sam G. Jacobs is shown carrying a monstrance during adoration. Praise and worship music was provided by More Than Sunday. Female keynote speaker Jackie Francois led the group with inspirational song and entertainment.

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Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

www.bayoucatholic.com

Scripture Readings Monday

1 July

Tuesday

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Wednesday

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and a listing of Feast days and saints.

Thursday

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Friday

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Saturday

Sunday

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Weekday Genesis 27:1-5, 15-29 Matthew 9:14-17

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Isaiah 66:10-14c Galatians 6:14-18 Luke 10:1-12, 17-20

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9

10

11

12

13

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Weekday Genesis 28:10-22a Matthew 9:18-26

Weekday Genesis 32:23-33 Matthew 9:32-38

Weekday Genesis 41:55-57; 42:5-7a, 17:24a Matthew 10:1-7

Memorial of Benedict, abbot Genesis 44:18-21, 23b-29; 45:1-5 Matthew 10:7-15

Weekday Genesis 46:1-7, 28-30 Matthew 10:16-23

Weekday Genesis 49:29-32; 50:15-26a Matthew 10:24-33

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Deuteronomy 30:10-14 Colossians 1:15-20 Luke 10:25-37

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16

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18

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20

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Memorial of Bonaventure, bishop and doctor of the church Exodus 1:8-14, 22 Matthew 10:3411:1

Weekday Exodus 2:1-15a Matthew 11:20-24

Weekday Weekday Exodus 3:1-6, 9-12 Exodus 3:13-20 Matthew 11:25-27 Matthew 11:28-30

Weekday Exodus 11:1012:14 Matthew 12:1-8

Weekday Exodus 12:37-42 Matthew 12:14-21

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Genesis 18:1-10a Colossians 1:24-28 Luke 10:38-42

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23

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25

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27

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Weekday Memorial of Exodus 14:21-15:1 Mary Magdalene Matthew 12:46-50 Exodus 14:5-18 John 20:1-2, 11-18

Weekday Exodus 16:1-5, 9-15 Matthew 13:1-9

Feast of James, Apostle 2 Corinthians 4:715 Matthew 20:20-28

Weekday Memorial of Exodus 24:3-8 Joachim and Anne, parents of the Matthew 13:24-30 Blessed Virgin Mary Exodus 20:1-17 Matthew 13:18-23

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Genesis 18:20-32 Colossians 2:12-14 Luke 11:1-13

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30

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1 August

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Memorial of Martha Exodus 32:15-24, 30-34 John 11:19-27

Weekday Exodus 33:7-11; 34:5b-9, 28 Matthew 13:36-43

Memorial of Ignatius of Loyola, priest Exodus 34:29-35 Matthew 13:44-46

Memorial of Alphonsus Liguori, priest and doctor of the Church Exodus 40:16-21, 34-38 Matthew 13:47-53

Weekday Leviticus 23:1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34b-37 Matthew 13:54-58

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United in Faith and Mission

...they gathered the church together and reported all God had done for them and how he had opened the door of faith...

Acts 14:27

By Being United in Faith and Mission, the Annual Bishop’s Appeal Can Provide the Pastoral, Spiritual and Educational Works Needed in Our Diocese.

Each of us has the Christian responsibility of sharing his or her blessings with others. Since the establishment of our diocese, this tradition of giving has been a hallmark and a strength of our spiritual family, enabling the church in South Louisiana to accomplish the Lord’s work.

Gifts are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

After reviewing the important and indispensable works of education, charity, outreach, and formation through the Annual Bishop’s Appeal, please help by reviewing the giving guide below to prayerfully make your commitment.

All gifts will be acknowledged.

Total Commitment

Down Payment

7 Monthly payments

Commitments are payable over 8 months and commitment reminders will be mailed monthly.

Checks are made payable to Annual Bishop’s Appeal.

For online credit card gifts visit: www.htstewardship.org

www.bayoucatholic.com

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Comment Jesus Is Lord Bishop Sam G. Jacobs

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St. Augustine said, “The one who created you without your cooperation, will not save without your cooperation.”

We believe that all have sinned and are in need of salvation.

“All have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

“You were dead in your transgressions and sins in which you once lived following the age of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the disobedient” (Ephesians 2:1-2).

We also believe that God has saved us through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

“They are justified freely by his grace through the redemption in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as an expiation, through faith, by his blood, to prove his righteousness because of the forgiveness of sins previously committed, through the forbearance of God—to prove his righteousness in the present time, that he might be righteous and justify the one who has faith in Jesus” (Romans 3:24-25).

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of the great love he had for us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, brought us to life with Christ (by grace you have been saved), raised us up with him, and seated us with him in the heavens in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come he might

show the immeasurable riches of his grace in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-7).

John’s Gospel reminds us that God so loved us that he sent his only begotten Son to save us, so that whoever believes will have eternal life (John 3:16).

Thus, we believe that God wills all men and women to be saved. Jesus’ death on the cross and his resurrection has brought salvation to all. This is the work of God on our behalf.

But as adults we must respond to this grace of salvation by believing, accepting, repenting and living in the life of God which comes with salvation.

We are saved by God’s action alone but we may not experience that salvation at the end of our life, if we do not respond to the gift during our life.

Just as we were created without our consent, we are still responsible for our life after that.

Over the centuries, the church has grown in its understanding of this great mystery of salvation.

Theologians have used two Latin phrases to express this reality of salvation: “opus operatum” and “opus operantis.” This could be understood as the work of the one who makes it happen and the work of the one who receives what happens.

Let’s apply this to the gift of salvation. As we said above, salvation is a free, unmerited gift from God to us. It is Jesus who offered his life on the cross as a sacrifice of love in obedience to the

will of the Father, so that we might have eternal life. Through this gift, our sins have been forgiven. We experience this salvation initially in the sacrament of baptism. We become adopted sons and daughters of God, sharing his Divine Life through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

As St. Augustine stated above, “The one who created you without your cooperation, will not save without your cooperation.”

Salvation: Word of God primarily; response of person secondarily Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

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This means that God waits on our response to his gift. He leaves us free to embrace salvation and live in the fullness of his divine life or to reject it through a life of sin, ending in death.

God willed to save us through the Incarnation of his Son by the overshadowing of the Holy Spirit.

But God waited for Mary’s response before he became man. In a similar way, God saves us but waits for our lived response for this gift to bear its full fruit.

How do we respond to the gift as adults? We do this initially through faith. Mark tells us in his Gospel: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16). How is this faith expressed?

Let us look at other Scriptures

to help us to better understand our response to the gift of salvation through faith.

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name? Did we not drive out demons in your name?

Did we not do mighty deeds in your name?’ Then I will declare to them solemnly, ‘I never knew you.

Depart from me, you evildoers’” (Matthew 7:21-23).

To respond to the gift of salvation in faith is to commit oneself to do the will of God. Paul gives us the most fundamental response to the will of God: “This is the will of God, your holiness” (1 Thessalonians 4:3).

After Jesus’ teaching on himself being the true Bread of Life come down from heaven, we read where many of his disciples murmured and left his company. Before they did, he asked a haunting question: “Does this shake your faith?” What was this teaching that caused this separation?

Jesus had said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you.

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him. Just as the living 11 Father sent me and I have life because of the Father, so also the one who feeds on me will have life because of me” (John 6:53-57).

The response of Peter and the twelve was the response of faith: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:68-69).

Our faith is in the person of Jesus Christ. That is what Paul proclaimed in his Letter to the Romans.

“For, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved” (Romans 10:9-10).

In summary, we are saved by God alone. But to live fully in that gift we need to respond in faith to Jesus by doing the will of God according to the lead of the Holy Spirit. www.bayoucatholic.com

Comentario

La Salvación: Primero es la obra de Dios; Segundo es la respuesta humana

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San Agustín dijo: «Dios que te ha creado sin ti no te salvará sin ti.» Creemos que todos somos pecadores y que necesitamos la salvación. «Pues todos pecaron y a todos les falta la gloria de Dios» (Romanos 3:23). «Ustedes estaban muertos por las faltas y los pecados en que andaban.

Seguían los caminos de este mundo, haciendo los deseos de Aquel Jefe del reino de los espíritus que continúa su obra en aquéllos que se resisten a la fe» (Efesios 2:1-2).

También creemos que Dios nos ha salvado a través de la muerte y resurrección de nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo: « Pero él, de manera gratuita, les regala su perdón y su amistad porque Cristo Jesús los ha rescatado, pues a éste, precisamente, Dios lo había destinado a ser la víctima que nos consigue su perdón, con tal de que creamos en la eficacia de su sangre. Así nos enseña Dios lo que es su justicia. Por una parte perdona los pecados cometidos en los tiempos anteriores y que soportó con tanta paciencia. Y en el tiempo actual nos da a conocer cómo él es justo y cómo hace justo a todo el que cree en Cristo Jesús» (Romanos 3:24-25).

«Pero Dios, que es rico en misericordia, nos manifestó su inmenso amor, y a los que estábamos muertos por nuestras faltas nos dio vida con Cristo. ¡Por gracia han sido salvados! Y Dios nos resucitó con Cristo, y nos sentó con él en los cielos. Dios quiso, a través de eso, demostrar en los tiempos venideros la extraordinaria riqueza de su gracia, su bondad para con nosotros en Cristo Jesús» (Efesios 2:4-7).

El Evangelio de San Juan nos recuerda que tanto amó Dios al mundo que le dio su Hijo Único, para que todo el que crea en él no se pierda, sino que tenga Vida Eterna (Juan 3:16). Por tanto,

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

creemos que Dios quiere que todos los hombres y todas las mujeres sean salvados.

La muerte de Jesús en la cruz y su resurrección nos ha traído la salvación a todos nosotros. Esto es la obra que Dios ha hecho por nosotros.

Siendo adultos debemos responder a la gracia de salvación con nuestra fe, aceptación, arrepentimiento y viviendo en la vida de Dios que viene con la salvación.

Recibiremos la salvación solamente por la acción de Dios, pero no viviremos la salvación al final de nuestras vidas si no le respondemos a estagracia durante nuestras vidas.

A pesar de haber sido creados sin nuestra aprobación, todavía somos responsables por nuestras vidas.

Por siglos la Iglesia ha incrementado su comprensión sobre su magno misterio de salvación. Teólogos han usado dos expresiones en latín para nombrar esta realidad de salvación: «opus operatum» y «opus operantis.» Estos se pueden definir como la obra del que hace las acciones y la obra del que recibe las acciones.

Apliquemos esto a la gracia de la salvación. Como lo he dicho anteriormente, la salvación es una gracia gratuita que Dios nos ha dado sin merecerlo. Es Jesús quien, como sacrificio de amor, sacrificó su vida en la cruz obedeciendo así la voluntad del Padre para que podamos poseer la vida eterna. Por medio de esta gracia, nuestros pecados han sido perdonados. Vivimos esta salvación inicialmente en el sacramento del

bautismo. Nos convertimos en hijos e hijas de Dios, compartiendo su Vida Divina por medio de la presencia del Espíritu Santo que vive en nosotros.

Así como San Agustín dijo: «Dios que te ha creado sin ti no te salvará sin ti.» Esto significa que Dios está esperando nuestra respuesta a su llamado. Él nos da la libertad de aceptar la salvación y vivir en la plenitud de su vida divina o de rechazarla con una vida de pecado que termina en la muerte.

Dios quiere salvarnos por medio de la Encarnación de su Hijo envolviéndonos con el Espíritu Santo. Sin embargo, antes de convertirse en hombre,Dios esperó la respuesta de María.

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Asimismo, Dios nos da la salvación, pero espera que le demos una respuesta antes de que estagracia dé pleno fruto en nosotros. ¿Cómo le respondemos a estagracia como adultos? Lo hacemos al comienzo con la fe. San Marcos nos dice en su Evangelio: «El que crea y se bautice se salvará. El que se resista a creer se condenará» (Marcos 16:16). ¿Cómo se expresa esta fe? Veamos otras Escrituras que nos ayudarán a comprender con más profundidad nuestra respuesta a la gracia de la salvación por medio de la fe: «No basta con que me digan: Señor, Señor, para entrar en el Reino de los cielos, sino que hay que hacer la voluntad de mi Padre que

murmuraron entre ellos y lo abandonaron.

Antes de dejarlo, él les hizo una pregunta aterradora: « ¿Esto estremece la fe que tienen ustedes?» ¿Qué enseñanza fue esta que causó este abandono?

Jesús les dijo: «En verdad les digo: si no comen la carne del Hijo del Hombre, y no beben su sangre, no viven de verdad. El que come mi carne y bebe mi sangre, vive de vida eterna, y yo lo resucitaré en el último día. Mi carne es comida verdadera y mi sangre es bebida verdadera.

El que come mi carne y bebe mi sangre vive en mí, y yo en él. Como el Padre que vive me envió, y yo vivo por él, así, quien me come a mí tendrá de mí la vida» (Juan 6:53-57).

La respuesta de 13 San Pedro y los doce fue una respuesta de fe: «Señor, ¿a quién iríamos? Tú tienes palabras de vida eterna.

Nosotros creemos y sabemos que tú eres el Santo de Dios» (Juan 6:68-69).

Nuestra fe se concentra en LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC Jesucristo. Esto es está en el cielo. En el día del Juicio lo que San Pablo proclamó en su muchos me dirán: Señor, Señor, Carta a los Romanos: «Porque si profetizamos en tu nombre, en tu confiesas con tu boca que Jesús nombre arrojamos los demonios, es Señor y crees en tu corazón y en tu nombre hicimos muchos que Dios lo resucitó de entre los milagros. Yo les diré entonces: No muertos, serás salvo. Pues creer los reconozco. Aléjense de mí todos con el corazón nos da acceso a Dios los malhechores» (Mateo 7:21-23). y proclamar con los labios conduce Responder a la gracia de la a la salvación» (Romanos 10:9-10). salvación en la fe es comprometerse En resumen, solamente Dios nos uno mismo a llevar a cabo la ha de salvar. Sin embargo, para voluntad de Dios. San Pablo nos vivir con plenitud en esa gracia da la respuesta más fundamental a necesitamos responder con fe a la voluntad de Dios: «La voluntad Jesús llevando a cabo la voluntad de Dios es que se hagan santos» (1 de Dios siguiendo la guía del Tesalonicenses 4:3).

Espíritu Santo.

Después de que Jesús haya Traducido por Julio Contreras, enseñado que él es el Pan de Vida verdadero que proviene del feligrés de la Iglesia Católica cielo, muchos de sus discípulos Annunziata en Houma, Luisiana. www.bayoucatholic.com

Binh luan bang loi

Söï Cöùu Roãi: Vieäc Chuùa laøm laø chính; phuùc ñaùp cuûa töøng ngöôøi laø phuï

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Thaùnh Augustinoâ noùi, “Ñaáng döïng neân baïn seõ khoâng cöùu baïn neáu baïn khoâng coäng taùc.”

Chuùng ta caàn xaùc tín raèng moïi ngöôøi ñaõ phaïm toäi vaø caàn ñöôïc cöùu roãi. “Taát caû ñaõ phaïm toäi vaø bò töôùc ñi söï vinh quang cuûa Chuùa” (Roâma 3:23). “Caùc baïn ñaõ cheát vì söï sa ngaõ vaø toäi loãi vì ñaõ soáng theo leà loái cuûa theá gian, ñang böôùc chaân theo ñaáng ban leà luaät phaùt xuaát töø söùc maïnh voâ caên cöù, vaø thaàn khí ñang hoaït ñoäng trong söï baát tuøng phuïc” (EÂpheâsoâ 2:1-2).

Chuùng ta cuõng xaùc tín raèng Thieân Chuùa cöùu chuùng ta qua caùi cheát vaø phuïc sinh cuûa Chuùa Gieâsu Kytoâ, Chuùa chuùng ta.

“Hoï ñöôïc thaùnh hoùa trong töï do bôûi ôn thaùnh qua söï cöùu ñoä cuûa Chuùa Gieâsu, Ngöôøi maø chính Chuùa Cha ñaõ göûi ñeán ñeå chuoäc toäi qua ñöùc tin, qua maùu ñaøo ñeå chöùng toû söï coâng chính bôûi vì ñaõ ñöôïc thöù tha toäi loãi maø mình ñaõ phaïm, qua söï khoan dung cuûa Chuùa – ñeå chöùng toû söï coâng chính cuûa Ngaøi ngay bay giôø Ngaøi thaùnh hoùa baát cöù ai coù ñöùc tin vaøo Chuùa Gieâsu” (Roâma 3:24-25).

“Tuy nhieân, vì Chuùa giaàu loøng xoùt thöông vaø bôûi vì yeâu thöông chuùng ta, keå caû khi chuùng ta ñaõ cheát do toäi gaây ra, ñöa chuùng ta ñeán söï soáng vôùi Chuùa Gieâsu (do aân suûng maø baïn ñöôïc cöùu roãi) laøm chuùng ta soáng laïi vôùi Ngöôøi, vaø ñaët chuùng ta ngoài vôùi Ngaøi treân thieân ñaøng vôùi Chuùa Gieâsu, raèng trong ngaøy seõ ñeán Ngaøi seõ toû cho chuùng ta aân suûng voâ bôø beán trong Ñöùc Gieâsu Kytoâ (EÂpheâsoâ (2:4-7).

Tin möøng thaùnh Gioan nhaéc cho chuùng ta thaáy raèng Thieân Chuùa vì yeâu thöông nhaân loaïi ñaõ göûi Con duy nhaát cuûa Ngaøi ñeå cöùu roãi chuùng ta, vì theá ai tin seõ ñöôïc soáng ñôøi ñôøi (Gioan 3:16).

Vì theá, chuùng ta tin raèng Chuùa muoán moïi ngöôøi, nam hay nöõ ñöôïc cöùu roãi. Caùi cheát cuûa Chuùa Gieâsu treân thaäp töï vaø söï soáng laïi cuûa Ngaøi

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

ñöa chuùng ta ñeán ôn cöùu ñoä. Ñaây chíng laø vieäc laøm cuûa Chuùa thay cho chuùng ta.

Tuy nhieân, laø nhöõng ngöôøi tröôûng thaønh chuùng ta caàn ñaùp laïi aân suûng cöùu roãi naøy baèng ñöùc tin, chaáp nhaän moùn quaø cöùu roãi, thoáng hoái vaø soáng theo ñöôøng loái cuûa Chuùa do ôn cöùu roãi mang ñeán.

Chuùng ta ñöôïc cöùu roãi laø do haønh ñoäng duy nhaát cuûa Chuùa nhöng chuùng ta seõ khoâng caûm nhaän ñöôïc noù trong ngaøy laâm chung neáu chuùng ta khoâng ñaùp laïi ôn cöùu roãi ñoù trong khi coøn soáng. Maëc daàu khoâng caàn xin pheùp cuûa chuùng ta Chuùa vaãn taïo döïng chuùng ta, nhöng chuùng ta vaãn phaûi chòu traùch nhieäm cho cuoäc soáng cuûa mình.

Qua bao nhieâu theá kyû, Giaùo hoäi ñaõ tröôûng thaønh hôn khi nhìn vaøo maàu nhieäm cöùu ñoä. Caùc nhaø thaàn hoïc ñaõ duøng hai caâu noùi baèng tieáng Latinh ñeå dieãn taû veà söï cöùu roãi: “opus operatum” vaø “opus operantis.” Hai caâu naøy taïm dòch nhö sau: vieäc laøm cuûa ngöôøi laøm ra vaø vieäc laøm cuûa ngöôøi ñoùn nhaän noù.

Baây giôø chuùng ta caàn aùp duïng moùn quaø ôn cöùu ñoä ñoù. Nhö ñaõ noùi ôû treân, söï cöùu roãi laø quaø taëng, khoâng caàn tieàn mua maø Chuùa ban cho chuùng ta. Do chính Chuùa Kytoâ ban qua caùi cheát treân thaäp töï cuûa Ngaøi nhö laø hy leã tình yeâu trong söï vaâng phuïc Chuùa Cha, bôûi ñoù chuùng ta ñöôïc cöùu ñoä.

Qua moùn quaø naøy chuùng ta ñöôïc tha toäi. Chuùng ta caûm nhaän ñöôïc söï cöùu ñoä naøy thöù nhaát qua Bí Tích Röûa Toäi.

Chuùng ta trôû thaønh nhöõng ngöôøi con thöøa töï cuûa Chuùa, cuøng chia seû ñôøi soáng thaùnh thieâng vôùi Ngaøi trong söï hieän dieän cuûa Thaùnh Thaàn.

Nhö thaùnh Augustinoâ ñaõ noùi ôû treân,

“Ñaáng döïng neân baïn seõ khoâng cöùu baïn neáu baïn khoâng coäng taùc.” Ñieàu ñoù coù nghóa laø Chuùa mong ñôïi söï phuùc ñaùp cuûa chuùng ta. Ngaøi cho chuùng ta töï do ñeå oâm aáp söï cöùu roãi vaø soáng troïn veïn trong söï soáng aân suûng hay choái boû noù vôùi ñôøi soáng toäi loãi, seõ keát thuùc baèng söï cheát. Chuùa muoán cöùu roãi chuùng ta qua söï xuoáng theá laøm ngöôøi cuûa Con Ngaøi trong söï che chôû cuûa Thaùnh Thaàn. Nhöng Ngaøi ñôïi Ñöùc Maria xin vaâng tröôùc khi nhaäp theå. Cuõng theá, Chuùa cöùu chuùng ta, nhöng baèng hai tieáng xin vaâng cuûa chuùng ta ñeå cho moùn quaø ôn cöùu ñoä ñoù coù taùc duïng hoaøn toaøn.

Laø nhöõng ngöôøi tröôûng thaønh laøm theá naøo ñeå ñaùp laïi moùn quaø ôn cöùu ñoä ñoù? Chuùng ta baét ñaàu baèng

a

ñöùc tin. Thaùnh söû Maùcoâ noùi trong Phuùc aâm cuûa ngaøi raèng: “Ai tin vaø chòu pheùp röûa thì seõ ñöôïc cöùu ñoä; ai khoâng tin seõ bò aùn phaït” (Maùcoâ 16:16). Ñöùc tin naøy ñöôïc hieåu nhö theá naøo? Chuùng ta haõy nhìn vaøo vaøi caâu Kinh Thaùnh khaùc ñeå giuùp chuùng ta hieåu theâm veà söï ñaùp laïi moùn quaø söï cöùu roãi qua ñöùc tin.

“Khoâng phaûi ai noùi, ‘Laïy Chuùa, laïy Chuùa,’ thì ñöôïc vaøo thieân ñaøng, nhöng chæ daønh cho nhöõng ai ñaõ laøm theo yù Cha treân trôøi. Trong ngaøy aáy nhieàu ngöôøi seõ noùi, laïy Chuùa, laïy Chuùa coù phaûi vì danh Ngaøi chuùng con ñaõ noùi tieân tri? Coù phaûi vì danh Ngaøi chuùng con ñaõ tröø quyû? Coù phaûi vì danh Ngaøi chuùng con ñaõ laøm daáu laï?’ Theá roài Ta seõ tuyeân boá cho ngöôi

Chuùa Gieâsu ñaõ noùi vôùi hoï, “Amen, amen, ta noùi cho caùc ngöôi hay, neáu caùc ngöôi khoâng aên thòt Con Ngöôøi vaø uoáng maùu Ngaøi caùc ngöôi seõ khoâng coù söï soáng cuûa Ngaøi. Ai aên thòt Ta vaø uoáng maùu Ta thì coù söï soáng ñôøi, vaø Ta seõ cho noù soáng laïi trong ngaøy sau heát. Vì thòt Ta thaät laø cuûa aên vaø maùu Ta thaät laø cuûa uoáng. Ai aên thòt Ta vaø uoáng maùu ta seõ ôû trong ta vaø Ta ôû trong noù. Nhö Cha haèng soáng ñaõ göûi Ta ñeán vaø Ta coù söï soáng laø vì Cha, vì theá, ai aên thòt Ta vaø uoáng maùu Ta thì cuõng coù söï soáng trong Ta” (Gioan 6:53-57).

Thaùnh Pheâroâ vaø 12 Toâng Ñoà ñaõ traû lôøi vôùi Chuùa trong ñöùc tin: “Thöa Thaày, boû Thaày chuùng con seõ theo ai?

Thaày coù lôøi haèng soáng.

Chuùng con tin raèng vaø 15 maïnh daïn tuyeân boá Thaày laø Ñaáng Thaùnh cuûa Thieân Chuùa” (Gioan 6:68-69). Ñöùc tin cuûa chuùng ta vaøo Chuùa Gieâsu nhö thaùnh Phaoloâ ñaõ noùi trong thö cuûa ngaøi göûi giaùo ñoaøn Roma: “Neáu anh chò em tuyeân xöng LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC baèng mieäng Chuùa Gieâsu laø Chuùa vaø tin töø trong loøng raèng hay, ‘Ta khoâng bieát caùc ngöôi. Haõy traùnh xa khoûi maët Ta, nhöõng ngöôøi Thieân Chuùa ñaõ cho Ngaøi soáng laïi, caùc laøm söï döõ’” (Matheoâ 7:21-23). con seõ ñöôïc cöùu ñoä. Vì ai tin baèng Ñeå ñaùp laïi moùn quaø ôn cöùu ñoä taâm can vaø seõ ñöôïc coâng chính hoùa, trong ñöùc tin laø quyeát taâm thi haønh vaø ai tuyeân xöng baèng moâi mieäng yù Cha treân trôøi. Thaùnh Phaoloâ cho vaø vì theá cuõng ñöôïc cöùu roãi” (Roâma chuùng ta moät caâu traû lôøi caên baûn khi 10:9-10). chuùng ta thöïc thi yù Ngaøi: “Ñaây laø Noùi toùm laïi, chæ coù Chuùa laø Ngöôøi thaùnh yù Chuùa, haõy soáng thaùnh thieän” ban söï cöùu roãi. Tuy nhieân, ñeå hoaøn (1 Thesaloânica 4:3).

Sau khi Chuùa Gieâsu noùi veà Ngaøi toaøn soáng cho söï cöùu roãi ñoù chuùng laø baùnh haèng soáng töø trôøi xuoáng maø ta caàn ñaùp laïi lôøi môøi goïi cuûa Chuùa chuùng ta ñaõ ñoïc thaáy trong Phuùc AÂm Gieâsu trong ñöùc tin baèng caùch soáng caùc moân ñeä ñaõ laàm baåm vaø ñaõ boû theo thaùnh yù Ngaøi tuøy theo söï höôùng Ngaøi. Nhöng tröôùc khi hoï boû Ngaøi, daãn cuûa Thaùnh Thaàn.

Ngaøi ñaõ hoûi hoï baèng caâu raát sôï haõi: Dòch thuaät: Linh Muïc Pheâroâ Leâ “Coù phaûi lôøi ta noùi laøm lung lay ñöùc Taøi, Chaùnh sôû nhaø thôø Our Lady of tin caùc ngöôi?” Chuùa daïy gì maø ñaõ laøm cho hoï boû Ngaøi ra ñi? the Isle. www.bayoucatholic.com

Comment The Pope Speaks

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VATICAN CITY (CNS) -Ideologies and practices that destroy human life arise from false ideas of freedom without God, Pope Francis told a crowd in St. Peter’s Square, including thousands of pro-life activists from around the world.

“Whenever we want to assert ourselves, when we become wrapped up in our own selfishness and put ourselves in the place of God, we end up spawning death,” the pope said in his homily during the Mass June 16.

The Mass was the culmination of a weekend dedicated to “Evangelium Vitae” (the “Gospel of Life”), a pilgrimage organized for the Year of Faith and named after the 1995 encyclical by Blessed John Paul II on the “value and inviolability of human life.”

“All too often,” Pope Francis said, “people do not choose life, they do not accept the ‘Gospel of Life’ but let themselves be led by ideologies and ways of thinking that block life, that do not respect life, because they are dictated by selfishness, self-interest, profit, power and pleasure, and not by love, by concern for the good of others.

“It is the idea that rejecting God, the message of Christ, the Gospel of Life, will somehow lead to freedom, to complete human fulfillment,” he said. “As a result, the living God is replaced by fleeting human idols which offer the intoxication of a flash of

CNS photo/Stefano Spaziani, pool

Pope Francis poses with Anglican Archbishop Justin Welby of Canterbury, England, and his wife, Caroline, during a private audience at the Vatican June 14. The pope and archbishop pledged to support each other with their prayers and to continue the search for full unity between their communities.

freedom, but in the end bring new forms of slavery and death.”

“Let us say ‘yes’ to love and not selfishness,” Pope Francis concluded. “Let us say ‘yes’ to life and not death. Let us say ‘yes’ to freedom and not enslavement to the many idols of our time.”

The pope did not mention any specific threats to life, but in an address at the end of Mass, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization, alluded to abortion and euthanasia.

“From the very beginning in the womb of a woman, until the very last moment when a person’s breath speaks of his or her presence in the world, this life is human, even if it develops into an immense array of conditions of weakness, suffering and demands for help,” said the archbishop, whose office organized the weekend pilgrimage.

Archbishop Fisichella drew attention to the presence in the square of “witnesses to Evangelium Vitae” from some two dozen countries, activists dedicated to

the defense of “children left alone, abandoned women, the chronically ill, those with the most diverse disabilities and handicaps, people who are dying, the marginalized (and) the excluded.”

After Mass, Pope Francis followed his usual practice of individually greeting a number of disabled persons among the congregation. On a lighter note, the pope also offered a general greeting to hundreds of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts who attended the Mass in their biker vests during a Rome celebration of the motorcycle’s 110th anniversary.

One of the pilgrims in the crowd, Mary J. McClusky, a special projects director with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat of Pro-life Activities, praised Pope Francis for reminding listeners that forgiveness is available for even the worst sins.

“It’s what the world needs to hear, the assurance that whatever we do, God will always love us,” she said. “That’s what’s going to break hearts open and allow that love to flow in.”

False ideas of freedom spawn threats to human life Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

Question Corner Father Kenneth Doyle

Why would God allow a tornado?

Q

Q. I am a lifelong Catholic, and I find myself having a crisis of faith. The age-old question, “Why does God allow bad things to happen to innocent people?” becomes harder and harder to answer in the wake of so many natural disasters. An atheist said to me recently, “If your God is all-powerful and all-loving, as you say he is, he could have stopped the Oklahoma tornado with a mere thought. Why didn’t he?” How do I answer that?

(Columbus, Ohio)

A

A. The easiest answer to the atheist happens also to be the most honest one: We don’t know.

To pretend that we have, while on this side of heaven, a clear and comprehensive “theology of tornadoes” is foolish.

Moral evil, even, is easier to understand than natural disasters: St. Augustine, among others, argues that God allows our evil actions because to prevent them would undermine our freedom, and the benefit of free will outweighs all of its ill effects. But disasters, such as earthquakes and hurricanes, are more difficult to explain. Clearly we believe that God could control them if he wanted -- in Chapter 4 of Mark’s Gospel, after Jesus had calmed the waves, the apostles ask, “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?”

Catholic teaching would

suggest that disharmony in nature is one of the consequences of original sin; this is the approach taken in No. 400 in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which lists as one of the results of Adam’s fall that “harmony with creation is broken; visible creation has become alien and hostile to man.”

As Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami once explained, natural disasters “can suggest that our planet itself is ‘in rebellion’ against the original order of a loving Creator God.” I prefer to think, though, that a full explanation eludes us. My natural reason tells me that God exists: The rising of the sun each morning convinces me that a master planner is in charge. That conviction is ratified by my faith in the risen Jesus, whose core message was about a Father in heaven who loves me and wants my happiness.

On that solid basis, I’m content to deal for now with some ambiguity, like Job. (Job, remember, was beset by all manner of ill fortune, and when he demanded an explanation, God’s reply was, “Where were you when I founded the earth?” (Jb 38:4).

The German Jesuit theologian Father Karl Rahner was right: The incomprehensibility of suffering is part of the incomprehensibility of God himself. If I could understand, at this point in my journey, everything about God, he really wouldn’t be God at all.

Ending of the Lord’s Prayer

Q

Q. I have been asked many times why Catholics end the Lord’s Prayer with “deliver us from evil,” while Protestants continue on with “for thine is the kingdom,” etc. Is it because the additional phrase was not said

by Christ when he taught the prayer to the apostles? (North Myrtle Beach, S.C.)

A

A. The original manuscripts of the Gospel (Mt 6:9-13) end the Lord’s Prayer, as taught to the apostles by Jesus, with “deliver us from evil,” and this has been the Catholic version of the prayer. All the official “Catholic” texts of the Bible down through the centuries -- including the Vulgate, the Douay-Rheims, the Confraternity Edition and the New American Bible -- have never appended the additional verse, and Catholic and Protestant commentators are in general agreement that it was never a part of the original text.

As early as the year 100 A.D., though, the doxology beginning “for thine is the kingdom” had been added to some manuscripts, and it was included in the Didache, a firstcentury manual of morals, worship and doctrine in the church. (A doxology is a short hymn-like verse that exalts the glory of God.) The doxology found its way into the standard Protestant version of the Lord’s Prayer during the 16th century 17 Reformation in England under Queen Elizabeth I and has remained a part of it ever since.

In the Catholic Mass, after “deliver us from evil,” the priest recites the prayer that begins, “Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil ...” before saying, with the congregation, the concluding doxology.

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

Like Mary, we are invited to a journey of understanding

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The Gospels have been described as being more like portraits than snapshots. A painting of a person can bring out many more aesthetic qualities of a person than a photograph can. John the evangelist paints a unique picture of Jesus’ mother.

If we are to perceive her image in the fourth Gospel, we must set aside all other images we have of her from other sources, such as the other Gospels, Marian liturgical celebrations and pious devotions about Mary. The figure of Jesus’ mother in John’s Gospel fits into John’s unique way of presenting Jesus to us.

A careful reading of John’s Gospel reveals that the evangelist never uses the proper name “Mary” for Jesus’ mother. When he mentions her specifically, he always refers to her in relational terms, that is, as “the mother of Jesus” (2:1, 3) or simply “his mother” (2:5, 12; 6:42; 19:25, 26). In fact, John often refers to his characters by traits rather than by names, e.g., “a woman of Samaria,” (4:7), “a man blind from his birth” (9:1), “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (13:23; 20:2).

The title “mother of Jesus” throws emphasis on a familial relationship.

The issue of such a relationship comes to a critical point in the midst of Jesus’ “Bread of Life Dialog” (6:25-69). When Jesus claims to be “the bread which has come down from heaven” (6:41), the Jews protest on the grounds that they know Jesus’

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

earthly father and mother, that is, his physical origin. This reflects the struggle people have in John’s Gospel to identify with Jesus as being “from above” (of heavenly origin) than “from below” (earthly origin). The Jews here, however, are without understanding, because, as John mentions in his Prologue, Jesus is the “Word-madeflesh” (1:14); he has no earthly father. Certainly the (implied) role of Jesus’ mother is important in 1:14, because through her birthing of God’s Word the world can be recreated. In John’s point-of-view, however, the Jews’ lack of insight regarding Jesus’ true (heavenly) origins in 6:42 suggests that Jesus’ terrestrial familial relationships are subordinate to a more important family relationship, that is, Jesus’ relationship with the heavenly Father.

This recasting of familial relationships continues in the scene where the mother of Jesus stands at the foot of the cross with the Beloved Disciple (19:25-27).

Hanging in crucifixion, Jesus casts her identity in a different light.

Speaking to the disciple whom Jesus loved (not the apostle John!), Jesus calls her “your mother.” She now has a familial relationship not with a blood relative, but with one who is closely related to Jesus by a character trait, love, that makes for a more significant familial bond with him. In John 13:35, Jesus emphasizes that the primary way people are to identify his disciples is by their love for one another. As one who is first loved by Jesus and then who reciprocates that love toward him, the Beloved Disciple has a greater familial relationship with Jesus than any blood relative.

As the mother of Jesus becomes the

mother of the Beloved Disciple she enters into a familial relationship with her Son that transcends blood ties. This is because she becomes a member of the community of disciples who love one another.

As the team of authors of Mary in the New Testament assert, “... the new mother-son relationship proclaimed by Jesus in John 19:2627 reflects the replacement of his natural family by a new family of disciples, the eschatological family we spoke of in reference to Mark 3:31-35” (pp. 212-213).

While Jesus’ mother will have to come to a different level of understanding regarding familial relationships with Jesus, she will also, in the course of John’s story, have to deepen her understanding of his life’s purpose. When the wine runs out at a wedding at Cana (2:111) Jesus’ mother informs him of that fact. Although it is unclear as to what she is specifically asking of Jesus, he says, “Woman, what [is that] to you and to me? My hour has not yet come” (2:4). Jesus came into the world not to supply wine, but to attend to the business of “The Hour,” the cataclysmic moment when through his crucifixion his mission would reach its climax, he would demonstrate the power of love to overcome “the world” (that part of society which is opposed to God), and effect the outpouring of the Spirit. Jesus’ mother, like other disciples, would have to understand the importance of Jesus’ “Hour.”

In John’s Gospel Jesus’ mother successfully transitions to a deeper understanding of her relationship to her Son, his relationship to the Father and what he must accomplish within that relationship. John invites us to this journey of understanding as well.

estions e a family boneden u Q n etw tio eat ove cr other and b Reflec n itual l

ir ea ith on does sp n How Christians w ? story of among ves and God l John’s e disciple e s n i f l e them h s (e .g. “t e you? e your d plac ional terms characteriz l u o c t u n If yo n what rela would John der ) i ” , s d e u he rea ve s v t e o l J s e s g u n s Je ecti alle whom sus ch venly persp this e J of a y meet per he re stor ’s enti rms of a dee . How do you n h o J e n te hly on ife in to see l han an eart eryday life? t v rather ge in your e n e l l a ch

Benedict c. 480-550 July 11

Crosiers

What’s known about the father of Western monasticism is from the “Dialogues of (Pope) St. Gregory the Great.” Sent to Rome to study, 20-year-old Benedict shunned the city’s wickedness to take up solitary living in Subiaco. He stayed there for about 25 years, with disciples he organized into 12 small communities. Around 529 he established the monastery at Monte Cassino, near Naples, where he spent the rest of his life and finalized his famous Rule, which spread throughout Western Europe. St. Scholastica was his sister; St. Gregory describes their spiritual talks and moving final meeting.

Benedict is the patron saint of Europe and of spelunkers, perhaps because some of his early foundations were in caves or grottoes.

Saints © 2013 Catholic News Service

WEEKEND AT THE BEACH AFTER

Kateri Tekakwitha 1656-1680 July 14

CNS

At her canonization in 2012, Pope Benedict XVI prayed, “St. Kateri, protectress of Canada and the first Native American saint, we entrust to you the renewal of the faith in the First Nations and in all of North America!” The daughter of a Mohawk chief and Algonquin woman, Kateri was orphaned in a smallpox epidemic that left her partly blind and disfigured. She was baptized by a French missionary visiting her village in New York state. But, her faith and refusal to marry caused trouble, and she fled to an Indian community near Montreal, where she was revered by French and Indians alike for her mystical gifts and kindness. The “Lily of the Mohawk” is the patron of Native Americans, refugees and the disabled.

Saints © 2013 Catholic News Service

LASIK!

PACKING LIST: • Swimsuit • Suntan Lotion • Beach Towel • Eyeglasses Let Advanced Eye Institute shorten your packing list this summer.

LASIK

Quentin D. Falgoust, M.D., A.M.C.

Ignatius of Loyola 1491-1556 July 31

Crosiers

Born in his family’s ancestral Basque castle, Inigo Lopez de Loyola was a page in Castile and a soldier wounded in battle before he experienced a personal conversion that has had profound consequences for the church ever since. While convalescing, he read about Christ and the saints, made a long retreat at Manresa and journeyed to Jerusalem. He studied for 10 years in Barcelona and Paris, where he became Ignatius and was the center of a group of like-minded men. They founded the Society of Jesus, or Jesuits, to be active missionaries and meet the challenges of the Reformation. Ignatius, superior general of the new order, also wrote “Spiritual Exercises,” which is still a popular guide. He is the patron saint of retreats and soldiers.

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19

Special

Guest Columnist Father Robert-Joel Cruz

T 20

CHILDREN CHILDREN helping

The Missionary Childhood Association is one of four Pontifical Mission Societies. The others are The Society for the Propagation of the Faith, Society of St. Peter Apostle and the Missionary Union of Priest and Religious.

These Societies gather basic support for more than 1,150 mission territories in Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands, Latin America and some parts of Europe. This includes support for some 9,000 clinics, almost 10,000 orphanages and more than 1,200 schools, where the poorest of the poor receive an education, health care, and come to know the reason for all our hope – Jesus Christ. The Societies also provide support for some 80,000 seminarians and for the training of some 9,000 religious sisters and brothers. The Pontifical Mission Societies are on the front lines where God’s people are suffering, ready to reach out day by day to the lost and abandoned.

The Missionary Childhood Association (MCA), originally known as the Holy Childhood Association, was created in 1843.

MCA was the vision of Bishop Charles de Forbin-Janson. After visiting parts of the United States and Canada and seeing the work of the Propagation of the Faith in the poor mission churches, Bishop Forbin-Janson returned to France determined to help the children of the Missions. He believed that even though poor, children rich in faith and love could play an important part in the church’s mission. Bishop Forbin-Janson began to

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appeal to the children of France to reach out in faith and love to help the children of the missions in the United States and China. Through this effort, the Missionary Childhood Association was born. Today, MCA continues to follow the vision of Bishop ForbinJanson – “children helping children.” After learning about the great needs of the world’s poorest children, young people are invited to pray and to offer financial help so that children in the missions today may know Christ and experience his love and care.

The National Office of the Pontifical Mission Societies for the United States is located in New York, NY. The national director for the Societies is the Very Rev. Andrew Small, OMI. Our Office in the Vatican is headed by Archbishop Fernando Filoni, DD, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.

The Pontifical Mission Societies report directly to the Holy Father, Pope Francis. Each diocese in the U.S. has a Pontifical Mission Societies office.

The Missionary Childhood Association offers our young people an opportunity to share the Good News of God’s love and salvation thus “to be a missionary.”

In participating in the programs and activities of the MCA, through Catholic schools and parish CCD programs, children learn about their brothers and sisters in mission countries – children just like them.

Each year, I look forward to meeting with principals of our Catholic schools and parish DRE’s and CRE’s to thank them for encouraging their students to participate and encourage them not to forget the poor children of the world. I consider it a privilege to celebrate a MCA Mass with the students in the Catholic elementary schools, to extend a personal “thank you” to them. As a missionary myself, I relate to them ways in which they have helped other children who otherwise would not have the opportunity to do so on their own, stressing to them that they have a very important role and a privilege to help the poor children in mission countries.

At the request of the mission moderator of the school and parish CCD program each student can now receive a free subscription to the “It’s Our World” newsletter.

Each issue, published in Advent and Lent, focuses on a different country each year. The newsletter connects U.S. children to the children in the mission countries and teaches them about life in the missions through stories, activities and prayer. Programs such as the Advent and Lent Boxes and/or folders and also

CHRISTMAS July IN

the MCA world mission globes are also available. In addition, mission moderators are excellent in creating their own programs to advance the noble cause of MCA which works great for their students. Students are encouraged to pray for the mission church. The Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen (national director of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith from 1950 to 1966) developed the World Mission Rosary.

Each of the five decades is a different color to represent areas of the world where the church continues her evangelizing mission.

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is a small diocese in comparison with other U.S. dioceses, however, in the past three years MCA received an average of $17,800 per year from the students of our Catholic elementary schools and parish CCD programs. This is excellent and expressive of our children’s love and concern for the poor children of the world. This financial support, along with prayers, allows children in the missions to know Christ and to experience his love and care through various services and programs provided for them.

Let all of us continue to encourage our young children to help the missions – hand in hand together we can – keep missions alive through our children. May you and your children be blessed greatly by the generous love of the infant Jesus through the maternal intercession of Our Lady, Mama Mary. Yes, “children can help children!”— All for the greater glory of God! (Father Robert-Joel Cruz is the diocesan director for the Pontifical Mission Societies Office.)

21

Retreats At The Cenacle July and August 2013 August 9-11

July 13

Young Adult Ministry Vince Liberto (504) 250-9697

Improving Our Conscious Contact

July 26-28

Presenter: Sr. Cathy Cahill, OSF

Resting in the Heart of God Presenter: Sr. Rose Hoover, r.c.

August 2-4

Staying Awake Presenter: Rev. Donald Blanchard

with God

August 14-17 Mary, Our Mother, Model and Fellow Disciple Presenter: Rev. Anthony Ewherido

Ongoing Programs Cenacle Prayer Enrollment

Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Phone: (504) 887-1810 Fax: (504) 887-6624 Email: cenacleprayer@aol.com

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Heavenly Recipes This month’s heavenly recipe comes from Barbara Fournier, a parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Church parish in Larose.

One of her favorite recipes is a Cajun favorite known as sticky chicken. Fournier, who is known affectionately as “grandmother” to all of her friends and neighbors, enjoys inviting the priests of the church parish over to her house for a meal.

To say that Fournier enjoys cooking is an understatement.

“I love cooking. It’s my passion.

I even enjoy grocery shopping for food. I like going down the isles and seeking ingredients for a meal,” says the Larose native.

Cooking seems second nature for Fournier. “I believe I was born knowing how to cook! My mother had the same passion. Cooking was like a work of art for her. It was as though her food was on display.

She took pride in her cooking; it was all from scratch,” she says.

When she began cooking for Father Ronilo Villamor and his associate Father Rholando Grecia, who are both from the Philippines, Fournier had to learn what their 22

, s ’ r e h t o m d n n e k Gra c i h C y k c Sti

Story and Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier

likes and dislikes were. “I didn’t know what to cook for the priests.

I found out that they like chicken.

They also like vegetables. Then I learned that they really like rice. I think they must eat rice for breakfast.” Fournier who also likes rice, jokes with Father Grecia saying, “I like rice with my rice.

Either they are part Cajun or I must be part Filipino.”

She is married to Daniel Fournier from Bayou Blue and the couple lived there until their three year old daughter Barbie died of meningitis in 1969. After she died they moved to Larose.

“I have always had faith in God and after our daughter died my faith got stronger. After she died I became a better person. I know that she is with Jesus, and Jesus is with me, so she is also with me,” Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

she says. They have two grown sons who also love to cook. Fournier says that sometimes she thinks they cook better than she does.

Her favorite thing to cook is shrimp and okra gumbo with potato salad. “I could make potato salad every day. I think it goes with everything. We grow our own okra.

Everything that comes out of the kitchen is fresh. We also raise our own chickens and have eggs. We give away the vegetables and eggs.

I found out you can’t out-give God. It seems the more we give away the more we receive in life. Our lives are blessed.”

Ingredients 1 whole fryer Salt for seasoning 4 tbsp cooking oil water Cut the fryer into about 13

pieces. Place enough oil to almost cover the bottom of a large nonstick skillet. Season with salt in the skillet. Spread out the pieces trying not to have the pieces touch.

Turn up the heat to high and brown the chicken on both sides. Turn the heat to medium and add five drops of water, one drop on four sides of the skillet and one drop in the middle. Be patient and learn for the sound of the chicken sizzling.

When you hear it start sizzling, flip over the pieces of chicken and add five more drops of water. Be patient. During the course of two hours you should flip the chicken and add water about eight times.

The chicken should be medium brown in color. The texture should be sticky and tender. It takes a lot of practice. If you cook it too long it gets too crispy.

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n Beginning July 2, Mass will be celebrated at Lumen Christi Retreat Center’s Pere Menard Building every Tuesday and Friday at 12:10 p.m., unless indicated otherwise. n St. Kateri Mass, Friday, July 12, Holy Family Church, Grand Caillou, 6:30 p.m. Food and dancing to follow at the Grand Caillou Recreation Center. n Woman of God Retreat, Saturday, July 13, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall,

AUGUST

24

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, Aug. 6, Quality Hotel, Houma, 10:45-12:45 p.m. Rev. Robert Cruz, speaker. n Scripture I, Wednesdays, Aug. 7, 14 and 21, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Deacon John Pippenger, speaker. n “Fill Your Hearts” event for young adults, Friday, Aug. 9, Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, Houma. Christopher West, speaker. Time yet to be announced. n Married Couples Conference,

SEPTEMBER

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, Sept. 3, Quality Hotel, Houma, 10:45-12:45 p.m. Rev. Mitchel Semar, speaker. n Scripture I-The New Testament, Wednesdays, Sept.

4, 11 and 25, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Deacon John Pippenger, speaker. n Components of Effective

DIOCESAN

JULY

10 a.m.-6 p.m. Speaker, Rev. Francis Valerio and Bishop Sam G. Jacobs. Registration is $24 per person which includes meals. All women over 18 years of age are invited. Online registration, www. htconferences.org or by phone, (985)-850-3171. n Christian Leadership Institute, Wednesday, July 17 through Sunday, July 21, Lumen Christi Retreat Center’s Souby Building, Schriever. n aNew Experience, Thursday,

July 18, St. Bernadette, Houma, 7-9 p.m. n Man of God Retreat, Saturday, July 27, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Speaker, Rev. Francis Valerio and Bishop Sam G. Jacobs. Registration is $24 per person which includes meals.

All men over 18 years of age are invited. Online registration, www. htconferences.org or by phone, (985) 850-3171.

Saturday, Aug. 10, HoumaTerrebonne Civic Center, Houma.

Guest speaker, Christopher West.

Time yet to be announced. n Acadian Mass, Thursday, Aug. 15, St. Hilary of Poitiers, Mathews, 6:30 p.m. n “Pray Always and Don’t Lose Heart! Learning to Pray with Luke’s Jesus” retreat, Friday, Aug. 16-18, Lumen Christi Retreat Center, Schriever. Sign in Friday, Aug. 16, 5:30 p.m. Concludes with Mass on Sunday, 10:30 a.m.

Rev. Glenn LeCompte, retreatant. n Woman of God Gathering,

Tuesday, Aug. 20, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6 p.m. Meal served at 6 p.m., events begin at 6:30 p.m. Free event, all women over 18 years of age invited. Bring your daughter. n aNew Experience, Wednesday, Aug. 21, St. Ann, Bourg, 7-9 p.m. n Man of God Gathering, Thursday, Aug. 29, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall.

Meal served at 6 p.m., events begins at 6:30 p.m. Free event, all men over 18 years of age invited.

Bring your son.

Teaching-High School, Thursday, Sept. 12, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Mike DiSalvo, speaker. n aNew Experience, Wednesday, Sept. 18, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, Houma, 7-9 p.m. n Components of Effective Teaching-Elementary, Thursday, Sept. 19, diocesan Pastoral

Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Julie Brunet and Renee McAlister, speakers. n The Call to Holiness, Thursday, Sept. 26, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Rev. Mark Toups, speaker. n Blue Mass, Thursday, Sept.

26, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, 11 a.m.

www.bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

EVENTS

Tune In To...

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 is provided by and in cooperation with HTV of Houma. ~ Channel 71, ALLEN’S TV CABLE of Morgan City

SUNDAY

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

Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Closer Walk Spotlight/Revival

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

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

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

Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Divine Intervention Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary

MONDAY

TUESDAY

25

WEDNESDAY Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary

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

THURSDAY Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Living Scripture Spotlight/Revival Spotlight/Revival

FRIDAY

Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Live With Passion Spotlight/Revival

SATURDAY Proclaim the Good News/The Rosary Real Food Spotlight/Revival

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

Personalities

Catholic education big influence in Msgr. Ledet’s vocation Story by Janet Marcel Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier Msgr. Donald L. Ledet, a native of Thibodaux who retired from active ministry in June 2001, recently celebrated the 50 year anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood which took place at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans on May 25, 1963. He recalls that his whole family was there along with “a lot of people” from Thibodaux.

However, what he remembers most about the day he was ordained was being suspended and forgiven by the archbishop at the same time. He explains that as he and the two other men ordained that day were giving their first blessings to their families, the vocations director came in and told them the archbishop wanted to see them in the rectory, but since they hadn’t finished their blessings they continued what they were doing. A few minutes 26 later the vocations director came back and said the archbishop wants to see you now! When they walked in, the first thing he said was, “You are all suspended.

When the archbishop calls you, you come; you drop everything you are doing and you come immediately.”

But later on, he told them, “Okay I’ll lift the suspension.” Msgr. Ledet says he can’t even remember the reason the archbishop called them in.

Throughout his 50 years as a priest, Msgr. Ledet served as assistant pastor in church parishes in Montegut, New Orleans and Marrero, as pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church parish in Pointe-auxChenes; Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church parish in Kenner; and St. Mary’s Nativity Church parish in Raceland. He also served the people of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux, St. Lawrence Church parish in Chacahoula, and Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish in Golden Meadow.

He also served on the priests’ council, as dean of the South Lafourche Deanery for six years, and in 1991 was given a Prelate of Honor with the title of monsignor.

Msgr. Ledet says his parents were not “overly” Catholic; they weren’t really involved in any programs in the church. However, they took him, and his brothers and sisters, to Mass every Sunday and taught them how to behave. He is the oldest of seven siblings and has four brothers and three sisters, all of whom are still living. Msgr. Ledet says his father worked hard as a truck driver to support the family, and even though he’s not really sure what he would have done if he hadn’t become a priest, he says he probably would have been a truck driver like his father.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

He credits his Catholic education as the biggest influence on his decision to become a priest. He was educated by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart at Mount Carmel Academy and Thibodaux College. The Brothers, along with the priests in his church parish, also influenced his decision.

“The Brothers tried to get me to become a brother, and I think they were a little disappointed when I entered St. Joseph Seminary to study for the priesthood,” says Msgr. Ledet.

“My life as a priest, I guess, has been much like any life. There are good times and bad times, ups and downs, and I’ve experienced them all. But, at any point in our lives, I believe we are the end result of all of our previous experiences, so I consider all of them to be good.

There were some hard assignments, more hard than easy, I would say. But the general life of a priest is what appeals to me; it’s what I enjoy.”

One of the most disappointing aspects of being a priest, says Msgr. Ledet, has been working with people to try to bring them into the church to know, love and serve God and feeling like you were being ineffective or that you were not having the effect on people that you intended. “Working really hard to offer certain programs and then having no one participate in them was frustrating, especially when you had good ideas and then nothing would happen with them.”

The administrative and fiscal responsibilities of being a priest have been challenging. “It is a real challenge trying to pay down parish debt. You never seem to get ahead. I personally just cut corners where ever I could; I didn’t spend money unless it was absolute necessary, and I found that to be effective,” says Msgr. Ledet of his experiences.

Since his retirement he has enjoyed having more time for himself. He says when you are a priest there is always something to do, another program to administer or another person to see; but now he can take more time to pray, reflect on Scriptures and celebrate Mass.

Some of his hobbies are reading and using his computer. He also enjoys operating his ham radio and says even though some people feel it is somewhat of a lost form of communication with today’s technology, there are still almost a million ham radio operators in the United States.

“The priesthood in general has been a great source of joy for me and I am grateful for all of the blessings God has given me as a priest. We (as priests) are nothing without the church,” says Msgr. Ledet.

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, 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

- Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis

- Mr. & Mrs. C. Thomas Bienvenu

- C. Remie Duplantis

- Harry Booker

- Marie Elise Duplantis

- Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux (3)*

- Warren J. Harang, Jr.

- Rev. Adrian J. Caillouet

- Msgr. Raphael C. Labit

- Rev. James Louis Caillouet

- Msgr. Francis J. Legendre

- Bishop L. Abel Caillouet

- Rev. Charles Menard

- Judge/Mrs L. P. Caillouet

- Donald Peltier, Sr. (3)*

- Msgr. Lucien J. Caillouet

- Harvey Peltier (30)*

- Abdon J. & Ada B. Callais

- Richard Peltier

- Harold & Gloria Callais Family

- The Peltier Foundation (2)

- Paul A. Callais

- Orleans & Louella Pitre

- Peter W. Callais

- Msgr. Joseph Wester

- Vincent & Fannie Cannata

- Robert R. Wright, Jr.

- Minor Sr. & Lou Ella Cheramie

- Rev. Kermit Trahan

- Maude & Edith Daspit

- Diocesan K of C

- Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis family (3)*

- Endowment Fund - $119,136.90

May 2013 Burse Contributions The Peltier Foundation ................................. $15,000.00 Willie & Emelda St. Pierre ............................. $2,000.00 Msgr. James Songy ......................................... $1,000.00 Anawin Community .......................................... $400.00 Rev. Gerard Hayes ............................................. $200.00 Ronnie Haydel ................................................... $135.00 Mr. Eledier Broussard ........................................ $100.00 Rev. Robert J. Sevigny ...................................... $100.00 Rev. Henry Naquin .............................................. $50.00

Open Burses with Balance as of 5/31/13 Mr. Eledier Broussard ................. $12,800.00 Msgr. Raphael C. Labit #2 .................. $10,840.00 Sidney J. & Lydie C. Duplantis ........... $10,800.00 Harvey Peltier #31 .............................. $10,486.91 St. Bernadette Men’s Club ................... $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 Rev. Victor Toth ..................................... $7,000.00 Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier ................. $7,000.00 Brides of the Most Blessed Trinity ......... $5,935.00 Rev. Peter Nies ..................................... $5,810.00 Elie & Dot Klingman .............................. $5,520.00 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 Rev. Kasimir Chmielewski ..................... $4,839.00 Rev. Gerard Hayes ................................ $4,386.00 Rev. Henry Naquin ................................. $4,161.00 Harry Booker #2 .................................... $4,138.00

Msgr. William Koninkx ........................... $4,000.00 Kelly Curole Frazier ............................... $3,490.96 J. R. Occhipinti ...................................... $3,400.00 Joseph “Jay” Fertitta .............................. $3,395.00 Catholic Daughters ................................ $3,330.00 Mr. & Mrs. Galip Jacobs ........................ $3,060.00 St. Jude ................................................. $3,000.00 Donald Peltier, Sr. #4 .............................. $3,000.00 Diocesan K of C #2 ............................... $2,894.62 Rev. Peter H. Brewerton ........................ $2,600.00 Anawin Community ............................... $2,300.00 Msgr. James Songy ............................... $2,075.00 Mrs. Ayres A. Champagne ..................... $2,000.00 Willie & Emelda St. Pierre ...................... $2,000.00 Rev. H. C. Paul Daigle ........................... $1,900.00 James J. Buquet, Jr. ............................... $1,650.00 Msgr. Francis J. Legendre #2 ................ $1,645.00 Rev. Robert J. Sevigny .......................... $1,600.00 Msgr. Emile J. Fossier ........................... $1,545.00 Dr. William Barlette, Sr........................... $1,525.00 Msgr. Stanislaus Manikowski ................ $1,525.00 Msgr. John L. Newfield .......................... $1,200.00 Rev. Guy Zeringue ................................ $1,200.00

Warren J. Harang, Jr. #2 ......................... $1,100.00 Rev. Clemens Schneider ....................... $1,000.00 St. Joseph Italian Society ...................... $1,000.00 Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux #4 ........... $1,000.00 Msgr. John G. Keller .............................. $1,000.00 Mrs. Shirley Conrad ............................... $1,000.00 Deacon Robert Dusse’ ............................. $950.00 Rev. Anthony Rousso ............................... $850.00 Deacon Willie Orgeron ............................. $800.00 Deacon Roland Dufrene ........................... $750.00 Mr. & Mrs. John Marmande ...................... $700.00 Deacon Edward J. Blanchard ................... $660.00 Deacon Raymond LeBouef ...................... $550.00 Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Cannata .................... $500.00 Deacon Harold Kurtz ................................ $300.00 Richard Peltier #2 ..................................... $300.00 Claude Bergeron ...................................... $250.00 Ronnie Haydel .......................................... $235.00 Jacob Marcello .......................................... $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Naquin .......................... $150.00 Rev. Hubert C. Broussard ........................ $ 50.00 Deacon Eldon Frazier .............................. $ 50.00 Deacon Nick Messina .............................. $ 50.00

Overall Seminarian Burse Totals: $1,395,733.39 www.bayoucatholic.com

27

Our Churches

Story by Janet Marcel Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Our Lady

of Prompt Succor Golden Meadow church is full of life, serves through many organizations Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish in Golden Meadow began as a mission of Our Lady of the Rosary Church parish in Larose in 1916. According to the history of the church parish, many of its parishioners are descendants of those who fled the coastal village of Cheniere Caminada after it was destroyed by a devastating hurricane in 1893. From 1938 until 1989, the LaSalette Fathers served the parish and a shrine was built to Our Lady of LaSalette.

The current church, a rectangular structure made of brick, steel and concrete, was built in 1959. A brick cross extends the height of the tall belfry located to the right of the church. After Vatican II the church underwent extensive renovations. A mosaic of the risen Christ became the main focus of the new sanctuary and the altar was replaced with one made of Italian marble. Both on the altar and the center of the floor is a mosaic of a pelican feeding her young with her own blood, which symbolizes the holy Eucharist. Stained glass representing Golden Meadow’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the importance of the shrimping and fishing industry to the members of its congregation was added to the façade of the church.

Father Joseph Henry Sebastian, pastor since June 2012, says there are approximately 800 families in the parish, made up of mostly older couples.

The evangelization and service ministries of the parish are the most active, says Father Sebastian.

Our Lady Helps is a very active charitable organization that assists many of the poor in the area.

Other service ministries include Thanksgiving baskets which are distributed to the needy of the area regardless of religious denomination, a Jesse Tree program, hospital and shut-in ministers, and a bereavement committee whose members not only provide food after a funeral but check on the family after some time has passed.

“The strength of the parish is in its organizations.

We also have a large group of liturgical ministers,” says the pastor. “We had a ministry fair in March where more than 100 people volunteered for different ministries. When you ask people to share their gifts and talents they are always ready to give. The people here are very generous.”

The parish has many resources and is all about sharing those resources with the needy, adds Father Sebastian.

The church parish also has an active pastoral council, a very supportive Knights of Columbus, Ladies of LaSalette, CCD program, evangelization

team that makes home visits, church environment committee, maintenance and building committee, music ministry, Bible study group, a recently revitalized vocations committee, Lenten gumbo whose proceeds go to Our Lady Helps, a prison ministry, and a Holy Name Society.

Share Books is a program which has books about various topics regarding the Catholic faith available in the church for people to borrow, much like a library. During the different liturgical seasons like Advent and Lent, additional books are added to the collection.

The parish also holds an annual Blessing of the Fleet, which is thought to be the oldest of its kind in the United States, at the start of shrimp season.

Father Sebastian says his first year in the parish was a learning process, getting to know the people and the parish; now he is ready for action. A couple of areas he knows the parish needs to concentrate on are the elderly and the youth. “We want to bring the elderly together, give them some food, some games they can play. We also need to work with the youth of the parish and try to get them to be more active in the life of the parish.”

The pastor tries to be present and available to everyone who needs him. He says, “Life here in Golden Meadow is good. I have a staff I can rely on and the people know I am here for them.”

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Staff

Our Lady of Prompt Succor’s parish personnel are from left, Marie Burkett, business manager; Father Joseph Henry Sebastian, pastor; Kristie Callais, receptionist; and Ricky Hebert, maintenance. Not pictured are Gwen Theriot, CRE; Dena Martin, religious education secretary; and Tracy Cheramie, custodian.

31

St. Joseph Manor

Diocesan Programs This Month “Revival”

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1201 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA 70301

(985) 446-9050 Fax: 449-0047 www.stjosephmanor.org

Host: Bishop Sam G. Jacobs Co-Host: Regina Thibodeaux Wednesday 8:30 p.m.

Friday 9:30 a.m. and Sunday 9:30 a.m.

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“Spotlight on the Diocese” Host: Louis Aguirre With Guests: Deacon Jim Swiler, Chancellor Deacon Douglas Authement, Director, Permanent Diaconate Mrs. Una Authement

If you are not receiving these programs in your area, please contact your local cable provider.

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Entertainment

July Seeing Clairely Claire Joller

W 32

We natives of the region have developed climate coping mechanisms so strong that I think they’re almost genetically transmitted, just like Grandpa’s big ears or Aunt Ursule’s fair complexion.

It’s that coping mechanism that allows us to experience the approaching days of July with serenity, and with a kind of forgetfulness. From year to year, we blithely go our way through the spring months avoiding looking July square in the eye, until it is upon us.

I’m writing this in early June.

Now, I know that it’s going to be hot on July 4, and on July 20, and on July 31 … and on into August and even September.

We live in coastal South Louisiana, after all.

The subtropics. On the same latitude, roughly, as Baja California, Morocco, southern Asia, and parts of Florida—you know, the state where so many Northerners migrate so that they can enjoy “warm” weather.

Subtropical vegetation grows in our lawns, on the roadsides, in the fields, and even on the medians in our towns and cities.

We can almost hear the grass growing faster after each rain.

Because afternoon showers are a sure thing for mid-summer southern Louisiana, it will be steamy and sticky and sultry. We who have lived here all our lives know this as a fact, from decades of wilting experience.

No amount of loose linen and gauzy cotton can successfully clothe us for summer’s heat.

With temperatures in the upper 90-degrees, fending off those trickles of perspiration that drip from our necks down our spines is

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

in the

subtropics

an eventuality, not a possibility, if we spend more than a few minutes in the sun. No garment, no matter how light or airy, can defend against it.

With this learned experience ingrained through many years of life here, you’d think we might dread our Southern coastal midsummer. But we’ve developed a kind of mental barrier that won’t allow for that kind of gloomy foreshadowing until the morning of July 1, when the sun seems to rise in double time and its rays all but sizzle through our blinds and curtains.

eternal that once we are in July’s torrid throes, we think that just this summer, it won’t be so bad. Maybe this year we won’t have to skitter from one pool of shade to another yards away, like Grand Isle “too loo loos” scurrying from dark hole to hole. Maybe this July some freak but benign weather system will hover above us and give us blessed respite from the sun’s blistering rays. It’s much the same as seeing a mirage in the desert.

Mind you, we never actually say these maybes out loud, for fear of someone doubting our hold on reality. But somewhere, deep in our

The irony of our springtime avoidance is that we meet July with unnatural incredulity.

“Oh, for the love of Aunt Daisy, it’s hot today.” No kidding.

“Mercy. I can barely take a deep breath, the humidity is so high.”

Humidity? You mean that stuff that descends like a palpable blanket every year?

“The heat is so oppressive. This must be the hottest July on record.”

Then you don’t remember the summer of (name any year).

It’s a strange contradiction that we never fail to be astounded by summer’s worst.

Maybe it’s because hope springs

unformed thoughts, the pleasant possibilities lurk, unfounded and unexpressed.

You might call this dreaming, but I call it survival.

I’m pretty sure Grandpa (who wore long-sleeved shirts in the summer), and Aunt Ursule (who sat on a west-facing porch with sunlight mottled by a muscadine vine every summertime afternoon) and all the rest who’ve lived here since the early 1800s, would agree.

My genes don’t lie.

(For comments or inquiries about this column, Claire Joller can be contacted by email at clairely1@ comcast.net)

United in Faith and Mission

...they gathered the church together and reported all God had done for them and how he had opened the door of faith...

Acts 14:27

By Being United in Faith and Mission, the Annual Bishop’s Appeal Can Provide the Pastoral, Spiritual and Educational Works Needed in Our Diocese.

Each of us has the Christian responsibility of sharing his or her blessings with others. Since the establishment of our diocese, this tradition of giving has been a hallmark and a strength of our spiritual family, enabling the church in South Louisiana to accomplish the Lord’s work.

Gifts are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

After reviewing the important and indispensable works of education, charity, outreach, and formation through the Annual Bishop’s Appeal, please help by reviewing the giving guide below to prayerfully make your commitment.

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For online credit card gifts visit: www.htstewardship.org

V Online Safe Environment Training Still can Access: Diocesan Calendar Specific office information extensive Catholic Charities information Bishop’s articles & videos

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Special Events

Vandy Hall of Fame inducts two

Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma recently inducted Terry P. Braud Jr. and Margaret Haydel Johnson into its Hall of Fame at a ceremony at the Vandebilt Brothers’ Hall.

Those chosen to the Hall of Fame must be deserving longtime supporters, faculty, staff, alumni, parents or others who have served Vandebilt faithfully and well. Up to four individuals may be chosen each year. Decisions are rendered by a committee of administrators, faculty and alumni.

Terry P. Braud Jr., a native and resident of Houma, has served the Catholic Church and the local community throughout his adult years. A graduate of St. Bernadette Elementary School and valedictorian of the H.L. Bourgeois High School Class of 1980, Braud entered Nicholls State University to study accounting.

After receiving a bachelor of arts 34 with honors in 1983, Braud earned his accreditation as a Louisiana Certified Public Accountant in 1993; he is a member of the Louisiana Society of CPA’s and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Braud joined the HoumaTerrebonne Jaycees, the Junior Chamber of Commerce, as a young accountant and served in the capacity as vice-president for two years, followed by a one-year term as president of the organization. He later became a member of the Krewe of Terreanians, participating as treasurer and vice president; Braud is the current president of the club and continues to serve on its board of directors. Braud feels that “our Catholic faith stands as the very foundation of our lives. Our faith is continuously influenced by our families, our academic endeavors, and the environment in which we live daily.”

As a parishioner of St. Bernadette, Braud served as commentator, assisted with marriage preparatory ministry, and participated as a member of several committees. In 2005 Braud became a parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

Terry P. Braud Jr.

Margaret Haydel Johnson

Church and has represented that parish on the Vandebilt School Advisory Council since 2007. As a parent, Braud has been quite active at Vandebilt. During the years that his children attended Vandebilt, Braud not only served on the Advisory Council, where he was president for seven years, but he also belonged to the Terrier Club and the Terrier Regiment Band Boosters.

Braud and his wife, the former Robin Hebert (VCHS 1980), have three children who have graduated from Vandebilt: Diana (2004), Elise (2005), and Patrick (2012). Braud continues to serve on the Vandebilt Advisory Council.

Margaret Haydel Johnson has had a lifelong affiliation with Catholic education in Houma; nearly 30 of those years have been spent at Vandebilt. After receiving her educational foundation at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School, Johnson attended Vandebilt and graduated in 1983. She then enrolled at McNeese State University, where she was a fouryear letterman in both volleyball and softball. Johnson earned a bachelor of science in 1988 and continued her stint at McNeese as a graduate assistant teaching two college courses.

Joining the Vandebilt faculty in 1989, Johnson has since served in the capacities of head volleyball and softball coach, Physical Education

Department chairperson, assistant athletic director and classroom teacher. Johnson has enjoyed tremendous success during her career at Vandebilt. She has been recognized as Coach of the Year numerous times on the district, regional and state levels. Johnson served as head coach of Louisiana’s high school all-star teams in 1996 and 2010, and she was inducted into the Louisiana Softball Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame in 2004.

Johnson was honored by Vandebilt in 2009 as a nominee for the Brother Alfred Kolb Teacher of the Year Award. In her 23 years as a head coach at Vandebilt, Johnson has led her softball team to the state tournament 20 times, resulting in seven state championships and five state runner-up titles.

Johnson’s success is supported by her husband, Ricky, and their sons Joshua (VCHS 2010) and Hayden (VCHS 2013). Johnson recognizes the opportunity that her parents gave her by providing her with a Catholic education.

Influenced by her family, the Marianite Sisters of Holy Cross and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, Johnson’s teaching and coaching philosophy consists of “faith in God, firm but fair discipline, respect for others, compassion and empathy, and belief in the achievement of others beyond their own expectations.”

Food for the Journey is July 2 The diocesan Office of Religious Education sponsors a monthly lunchtime speaker series on the first Tuesday of the month at the Quality Hotel on Hollywood Road in Houma across from Vandebilt Catholic High School.

The speaker for July 2 is Father Robert-Joel Cruz.

Father Cruz, pastor of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish in Chackbay since June 2008, attended Adamson University in Manila, Philippines, and Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans.

He was ordained to the priesthood June 8, 1996.

He has served as associate pastor of the following church parishes: St. Bernadette, Houma; St. Joseph Co-Cathedral, Thibodaux; St. Luke the Evangelist, Thibodaux, and St. Hilary of Poitiers, Mathews. He

Saint Kateri celebration Friday, July 12 The 19th annual Native American liturgical celebration for the feast of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, the “Lily of the Mohawks,” will be celebrated Friday, July 12, at 6:30 p.m., at Holy Family Church in Grand Caillou. The Kateri Chaplet and excerpts of Kateri’s life will begin at 6:10 p.m. Fellowship will follow at the Grand Caillou Recreation Center, 106 Badou Drive. The recreation center is approximately one quarter mile south of Holy Family Church.

The reception which includes Native American drumming, dancing, festive dress, food and the “Treater Band” will be held immediately following the Mass.

Rev. Robert-Joel Cruz

has also served as pastor of Holy Savior, Lockport.

Those who plan to attend the July 2nd event should RSVP with their name, phone number and church parish by Thursday, June 27. 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 $13 and includes meal, drink and tip. Only cash or checks will be accepted.

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

35

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Special

Guest Columnist

T 36

Peter Finney Jr.

Though I have spent quite a few nights at a Holiday Inn Express in my lifetime, I am not a theologian.

I am a husband and father. I know a few things about family and faith. I think I have a decent grasp of the English language.

I have a fair acquaintance with Scripture, although I should know more. I like to regard myself as someone with common sense and a cradle Catholic’s appreciation of right and wrong.

But on a rainy, shrouded May 22, dozens of people gathered inside First Unitarian Universalist Church on South Claiborne Avenue in New Orleans and talked about truth, beauty and life.

All I could see – besides the five shallow tubs of black garden soil in front of the sanctuary and the gold-painted shovels used symbolically to break ground on Planned Parenthood’s mammoth abortion facility three blocks away – were darkness, evil and death.

Rabbi Edward Cohn of Temple Sinai, a faith leader who has worked tirelessly to enhance interfaith relations in the New Orleans area, quoted the psalmist by proclaiming: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Have you ever had an out-ofbody experience? I can only equate it to the cognitive dissonance triggered in your brain and your heart when someone you respect and want to believe is telling you passionately and unequivocally that black is white.

This is 2013, not 1984, but I felt transported into an Orwellian universe, where the Ministry of Truth dispenses truthspeak.

“Dear friends, what a joy

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

Gold shovels of death and honor it is to be part of this celebration today,” Rabbi Cohn said. “As the psalm says, it’s not where you start, but where you finish. Today, we’re off to a most exciting start.

“Of course, we’re all mindful of the controversy and the ugly confusion which this wonderful facility engenders in some few, though very vocal, souls.

Planned Parenthood and this new building’s purpose and lifesaving service are victims, really, of misinformation and sometimes downright malevolent voices, which encourage community hysteria and manufacture knowingly misinformation.”

Let’s get one thing clear. There are many health services that Planned Parenthood currently provides to women at its Magazine Street location that would be considered health “care.” But it does not perform abortions in that clinic – as it plans to do at its sparkling “state-of-the-art” new regional abortion facility.

How amazing, then, are these

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

indisputable statistics: in nearly 48 minutes of rejoicing and being glad in the Lord’s day, Planned Parenthood trotted out nine speakers who talked about saving women from sexually transmitted diseases and from cancer through affordable screenings – all laudable goals of healing medicine – while devoting exactly 31 seconds to addressing, indirectly, the malevolent consequences of abortion.

“For women who are facing the complex and personal decision of whether to end a pregnancy, we will be here for them because we believe that decisions about whether to choose adoption, end a pregnancy or raise a child must be left to a woman, her family and her faith, in consultation with her doctor,” said Melaney Linton, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast.

If abortion represents only a tiny portion of Planned Parenthood’s services – the organization minimizes the practice in every public pronouncement – then

a

why would it need to change its “service” plan in New Orleans by offering abortion at its new facility?

Well, there’s a little thing called truth. Linton somehow neglected to inform her audience that Planned Parenthood in the U.S. performed 145 abortions for every one adoption referral in 2011.

Business is business.

For me, the most disheartening thing was to hear Rabbi Cohn paint a caricature of the prolife community as “voices of fear and rebuke.” He said some of the voices are “authored in good faith, frankly, by people who I dearly respect. But in this project and on this subject and its purpose, we could not find ourselves in more stark disagreement.”

After recounting the story from the 11th chapter of the Book of Numbers, where Moses tells his followers to stop worrying about Eldad and Medad prophesying and perhaps becoming competitors to his authority, Rabbi Cohn said the same situation is playing out 3,500 years later.

“No one has a monopoly on truth,

especially in a free society in the 21st century,” Rabbi Cohn said.

“No one – no church, no synagogue, no mosque, no archbishop, no rabbi, no imam – bespeaks the official faith of the United States of America. Thank God that’s so.

‘

Truth? What is truth?

What about Thou shalt not kill?

,

“For we have in this country no approved theology, no approved creed which defines how and what we citizens must think or how we must act upon these highly personal issues of conscience or of the mysteries of faith – the birth or even the career of the human soul.

Each faith, at its most, may teach its own adherents, but there is no one who speaks for the citizens of this nation. There is absolutely no monopoly on truth, and no one has cornered divine revelation, and the highest court of the land has affirmed that fact.”

Just one question for Rabbi Cohn: What if the 50 million unborn infants destroyed in the last 40 years, courtesy of the highest court of the land, were actually human lives?

Truth? What is truth? What about “Thou shalt not kill”? What about another Old Testament prophet, Jeremiah (1:5): “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born I dedicated you.”

Sorry. This was the day that humans had made, and this was no time to rejoice.

When I saw the gold shovels, I thought of only one thing: the grave-digging has only just begun.

But I’m no theologian.

Peter Finney Jr. is executive editor and general manager of Clarion Herald in New Orleans.

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Pope: Religious freedom gets more lip service than guarantees VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Religious freedom is talked about more than it is protected, Pope Francis said.

“The serious violations inflicted on this basic right are causes of serious concern,” and the world’s nations must act together to uphold “the intangible dignity of the human person against every attack,” he said.

The pope made his comments during an audience with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano at the Vatican June 8.

The pope said the cooperation that exists between church and state in Italy is built on the daily interaction and rapport between government officials and Catholics, whose main aim is always the promotion of “the interests of the people and society.”

He noted that 2013 marked the 1,700th anniversary of the Edict of Milan. This proclamation of tolerance of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire is seen by many, he said, “as a symbol of the first affirmation of the principle of religious freedom.”

However, today “religious freedom is more often declared than achieved,” the pope said.

Religious liberty, in fact, is frequently violated and finds itself “subjected to various kinds of threats,” the pope said. “It’s the duty of everyone to defend religious freedom and promote it for all people.”

38 Also, everyone benefits when people together safeguard this “moral” right as it “guarantees the growth and development of the whole community,” the pope said.

Pope Francis also told Napolitano that the “profound and persistent global crisis” in the world today worsens current problems, especially for the weaker members of society.

But the most “worrying” problems today include the weakening of the family and social ties, falling birthrates, the rule of profit in the work world and insufficient attention being paid to younger generations and their education.

In order to face the crisis, he said, “it is fundamental to guarantee and develop” democratic institutions, which are precisely an arena where lay Catholics can

S E T I TERM

Religious freedom trouble spots Government restrictions and abuses

Blasphemy, apostasy, conversion laws

Increase in anti-Semitism

Afghanistan

Egypt

Azerbaijan

Eritrea

Bahrain

Societal violence and intolerance

Problems of impunity

Argentina

Egypt

Egypt

Egypt

India

India

India

France

Iraq

Indonesia

Belgium

Indonesia

Greece

Libya

Libya

China

Iran

Hungary

Mali

Myanmar

Cuba

Libya

Iran

Nigeria

Nigeria

India

Pakistan

Russia

Pakistan

Pakistan

Indonesia

Saudi Arabia

Tunisia

Sri Lanka

Sudan

Iran

Sudan

Ukraine

Tunisia

Tunisia

Maldives

Tunisia

Venezuela

cited for severe violations

Myanmar North Korea Pakistan Russia Saudi Arabia Sudan Syria Tajikistan Turkmenistan Uzbekistan Vietnam

Reuters

Christian family at home in slum of Yangon, Myanmar

Nations listed were singled out in the executive summary of the 2012 International Religious Freedom Report by the U.S. Department of State. © 2013 Catholic News Service

make “critical, just and creative” contributions to society.

Pope Francis said it was “urgent” to help foster, especially among young people, a new way of looking at political involvement.

There needs to be “a culture of encounter” in which “believers and nonbelievers may collaborate together to promote a world where injustices can be overcome and every person may be welcomed and may contribute to the common good,” he said.

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Conference Office sponsoring even more opportunities this summer ...

Woman of God and Man of God retreats: Deeper in the Life of the Spirit The Woman of God and Man of God retreats will be held in July (Women’s on Saturday, July 13 and Men’s on Saturday, July 27) at the diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall. These retreats are specifically designed for women and men ages 18 and older and will include spiritual direction, time before the Blessed Sacrament and periods of reflections. Each retreat will be led by Father Francis Valerio and Bishop Sam G. Jacobs. Pre-registration for the retreats is $24 before 1 p.m. on the Friday prior to the retreat (July 12 for the women and July 26 for the men). Late registration is $34 and will be accepted at the door on Saturday.

Registration includes lunch and refreshments throughout the day. For more information, visit www. htconferences.org or email conferenceinfo@htdiocese.org.

Young Adults’ Night with Christopher West On Friday, Aug. 5, there will be a Young Adults’ Night with Christopher West, “Fill These Hearts,” for anyone over 16 years of age. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

Married Couple’s Conference with Christopher West A Married Couple’s Conference co-sponsored by the diocesan Office of Family Ministries will take place Saturday, Aug. 10 at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center. Christopher West, a research fellow and faculty member of the Theology of the Body Institute and one of the most sought after speakers in the church today will discuss the teachings in his latest book, Fill These Hearts. There is an optional date night evening with dinner, a live band and dancing beginning following the conference. Pre-registration for the date night is required. Limited nursery services are also available for couples registered by Aug. 1. For questions about the nursery services, call (985) 850-3129. Couples can register for the conference at www.htconferences.org by submitting the registration form online or by calling the Conference Office.

For more information about any of these events, call the Conference Office at (985) 850-3171.

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Church Life

St. Gregory is GOLDEN

40

St. Gregory Church parish in Houma recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special Mass which was celebrated by Father Evelio Buenaflor Jr. and concelebrated by former pastors of the church parish. The St. Gregory choir provided music for the celebration. In bottom photos Father Buenaflor thanked the former pastors for serving St. Gregory. Msgr. Francis Amedee, founding pastor, reminisced on the early days at St. Gregory. During the offertory 50 bags of items to be donated to the local food bank were presented by parishioners representing various ministries.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

Sports

Overtime

I

Ed Daniels

It amazes me how “select” schools in the Louisiana High School Athletic Association continue to live in denial.

The latest dose of reality occurred when the LHSAA released its schedule for December’s Superdome Classic.

There will be nine championship games (lol!) over three days. And, somehow the select schools got all three Thursday games.

The only select championship to be played on Friday or Saturday will be the Division IV championship at Noon Saturday.

The Division III select school championship game has a chance to be one of the best games of the championships. Lumped in that class are defending national champion John Curtis, 2A runnerup Evangel, 3A state champion Parkview Baptist and 3A runnerup Notre Dame of Crowley.

Yet, they get brunch Thursday in the Superdome.

I keep wondering when the so called select schools will get their heads out of the sand and wake up to this new football reality.

In January, when LHSAA public school principals voted

Through adversity comes opportunity overwhelmingly for a football playoff “split,” I heard this from the select side.

In the spring, the Legislature will pressure the LHSAA to change course.

Perhaps the executive committee will toss it out in June.

A lawsuit from select schools will stop it.

Doors one and two are closed, and the LHSAA is convinced that door three is a ruse.

They say a recent court decision confirmed that the LHSAA is a private organization. And, that principals make the rules.

Those principals have spoken.

They have said they don’t like John Curtis and Evangel incessantly winning state titles.

They don’t like the fact that a traditional public school didn’t win a state football championship in 2012.

For many public schools throughout the state, their take is simple. Recruiting and cheating are rampant among private schools.

They don’t have to prove it.

They won the election in January.

In the meantime, the select schools complain of lack of leadership from LHSAA executive director Kenny Henderson.

They say former commissioner Tommy Henry would have halted January’s proceedings long before it came to a vote.

I have some advice for the select schools.

Show some leadership amongst yourselves.

Understand the true meaning of the phrase, “it is what it is.”

Teurlings Catholic principal Mike Boyer said it best. “I have friends on this (school relations) committee from the public schools,” said Boyer. “But I am afraid that proposition eight (that splits all schools in every sport) will come to the floor again in January.”

Maybe the association can be put 41 back together in January.

Maybe … maybe ... maybe.

My take: If it happens it will only be with more rules aimed at select schools.

So, selects, time to march.

In January the public schools won, you lost. If you are keeping score at home it is Public schools 1, Selects 0.

But, through adversity comes opportunity.

Form your own league. Invite any school to join.

Quit crying, whining and moaning, and compete.

www.bayoucatholic.com

Back To School

Guest Columnist Marian Fertitta

The family is the first school; the home is the first schoolhouse

42

H

Here we are in the middle of the summer, and schools and parents are already planning and preparing for another school year. Parents are busy finding uniforms, shoes and purchasing supplies their children will need.

Teachers, who have worked all summer planning, attending workshops, and preparing lessons, are now straightening and decorating their classrooms to create a welcoming environment for the students when they get “back to school.”

The phrase “back to school” is really a misnomer when we understand the teaching of the Catholic Church in the nature and vocation of the Christian family.

The family is the first school and the home is the first schoolhouse.

Therefore, when parents send their children “back to school” they are actually extending their educational mission to teachers and entrusting their precious children to them. Catholic schools are an extension of not only the family but of the church itself. It is our responsibility to ensure that we are these extensions.

Young people of the third millennium must be a source of energy and leadership in our

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

Parents all across the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux are preparing for the new school year which is right around the corner. St. Bernadette Catholic School first grader Allie Belle tries on a new pair of shoes at Felger’s Footwear in Houma.

church and our nation. Therefore, we must provide young people with an academically rigorous and doctrinally sound program of education and faith formation designed to strengthen their union with Christ and his church. Catholic schools collaborate with parents and guardians in raising and forming their children as families struggle with the changing and challenging cultural and moral contexts in which they find themselves. Catholic schools provide young people with sound church teaching through a broad-based curriculum, where faith and culture are intertwined in all areas of a school’s life. By equipping our young people with a sound education, rooted in the Gospel message, the person of Jesus Christ, and rich in the cherished traditions and liturgical practices of our faith, we ensure that they have the foundation to live morally and uprightly in our complex modern world. This unique Catholic identity makes our Catholic elementary and

secondary schools “schools for the human person” and allows them to fill a critical role in the future life of our church, our country, and our world (Catholic Schools on the Threshold, no.9) Working to fulfill the recommendation in the above referenced, the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Houma–Thibodaux went through the rigorous process to become nationally accredited through AdvancED. Ours was the first diocese in the state to do so.

The accreditation team comprised of Catholic school educators from across the country and state made recommendations that we have been working to address. One of the recommendations was establishing a viable curriculum to guide instruction in all schools.

During the 2013-14 school year we will begin work on reaccreditation.

This process will take two years.

Each of the six standards will be reviewed to determine the degree of implementation. During

a

Quick facts Quick Facts of the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux: Approximately 5,600 students will report to Catholic schools in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in the 2013-2014 school year.

Ten percent of the student population during the 2012-2013 school year were non-Catholic; minority students made up 12 percent of the population. Two schools had waiting lists for admission.

There are 372 professional staff members (administrators and teachers) and 167 support staff members in the schools.

Two hundred three teachers serve the 10 elementary schools and 144 teachers serve the three high schools. The laity makes up over 99 percent of the faculty; less than one percent is religious. The student/teacher ratio is 16:1.

Average tuition per pupil is $6,220 for high schools and $3,481 for elementary schools.

Average salary for a high school lay teacher is $42,123.41; and $33,777.91 is the average salary for an elementary school lay teacher.

Number of graduates in the 2011-2012 school year was 332.

Percentage of seniors who graduated in 2012 was 100 percent.

Percentage of graduates who entered college in 2012 was 98 percent.

Total college scholarship dollars awarded in 2011-2012 was $8,045,440.

43

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

this process the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools will also be reviewed and incorporated. The first two standards to be addressed are Catholic Identity and Teaching and Learning. More information will be forthcoming once the process begins.

We are very proud of the success of our schools in being places where our students grow morally, socially and spiritually. However, we as Catholic schools cannot sit back and rest on these laurels. Our students are the present and future of Catholic Church. Thus it is our duty as Catholic schools to ensure that they are prepared spiritually and academically to take on these roles.

In the midst of the hectic preparation for “back to school� parents can rest assured that their children will be entering places where they will be nurtured spiritually and academically and loved by those who work in our schools. We know the sacrifices that you make to send your children to our schools. Your choice of Catholic education for your children is honorable and commendable.

Our Catholic schools have and will continue to be Christ-centered schools of academic excellence. Parents, we need your help, support and prayers to continue our mission. As stated at the beginning of this article you are the first spiritual and academic teachers of your children. We, the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, will continue to build and expand on these lessons you have begun.

Respectfully yours in Christ, Marian B. Fertitta

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Back To School

How to be a

(gooder)

better writer

By Bill and Monica Dodds Catholic News Service

Every family knows that September means back to school and more readin’ and writin’ and ‘rithmetic. For a lot of students -- and their parents -- it’s the middle of that trio that causes the most trouble. So, in this 44 column, we thought we’d offer (and we don’t mean to imply that you or your family are a little ... contrary!)

Five Bad Tips for Writers: n Never hesitate to use a really big or obscure word, even if you aren’t sure what it means. Really big and obscure words tell the reader, “Hey, I’m smarter than you are!” n It’s silly to be concerned about spelling errors if your computer has a spell-check program. Unless your software says a word is misspelled, feel free to assume there’s no problem. n Self-editing is a waste of time. You’re a writer not an editor. n Like a diamond, the best writing is created under pressure. Never start a project too early. n Take breaks often. Unless the words are just pouring out and they’re pure gold, stop for a few games of computer solitaire or a little Web surfing.

The Basics Are Basic Whether you’re in grade school or a professional writer, the basics of good writing apply. What are the basics of good writing? The terms may vary, but generally they include: n Keep your audience in mind. Choose an angle that interests you. Research the topic as needed.

Write a brief outline. Write a first draft. Let it sit, at least overnight. Self-edit and rewrite. Polish. (As in “Company is coming, we need to polish the silver,” not “This is being sent to Warsaw so translate it into Polish.”) Turn it in.

Do you “have to” go through all those steps?

Of course not. Use them only in you want to end up with a good piece of writing in the least amount of time.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

The Secret of Freelancing Revealed What’s the secret to becoming a published writer?

The secret is: There are no secrets. The “Ten Commandments of a Relatively Happy and Reasonably Well-adjusted Freelance Writer” are: 1. Write.

2. Know your subject. Know your target audience.

Know your competition. Know your publication.

3. Keep in mind that at some point you need to quit talking, thinking, worrying and planning and “write”!

4. Stick to your schedule.

5. Remember: The way to become a better writer is to write.

6. Remember that it takes time -- sometimes years -to find and develop your own voice.

7. Go with your best pitch. (Write the kind of writing you write best!)

8. Tell a good story.

9. Finish it.

10. Send it out. Send it out. Send it out.

On the Web: Patron Saint of Writers St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622), the bishop of Geneva in the early 17th century, was known for his spiritual writing and gentle advice. His recommendations included: “Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them -- every day begin the task anew.”

You can read more about him at: www.catholicforum.com/Saints/saintf03.htm.

e m o c l Waeck to School

B

Craig Hebert, PT • Craig Pate, PT

104 East Bayou Rd. (Hwy 308) ~ Thibodaux, LA 70301 ~ (985) 446-3736 www.thibodauxpt.com

Thoughts

as school gets underway

BY KASE JOHNSTUN

Catholic News Service

I was conducting a quick Google search -- my Internet mode of scouring for needed information.

I typed “back to school” into the search box, hoping to find loads of information about teens going back to school and issues that come up that first day or within that first month when everything is new, confusing and even a little scary at times. I found nothing until close to the 20th “page” of sites.

What I did find were articles for kids going back to school and a million back-to-school shopping pages, including articles on which stocks to buy to cash in on the current purchasing patterns of teens.

Typical.

But searching and searching I stumbled upon YouthNoise.com and liked this site. While I don’t advocate everything I found, there is a lot of good stuff there. The site encourages teens to take stock of their world and to change things for the better by making their voices heard. Check it out, but, like all things on the Internet, use discretion. This site really seems to be on the right track in many ways, pushing toward changing the world to make it a better place.

While on this Web site I found a “Top 10” list that I liked: the Top 10 things to do before going back to school. No. 10 and No. 9 urged teens to read at least one more book on their summer reading lists and to see a summer movie.

Next was to “clean out your closet” and “take the clothes, shoes and accessories you don’t wear anymore to your local Good Will or Salvation Army” center.

No. 7 was to “brush up on current events,” and No. 6 was to purchase school supplies. This point noted that “everyone loves getting new pens and binders, but some kids can’t afford them.” So it urged teens to “buy some extra supplies and donate them through your church or school. Or when you check-out at stores like Office Depot, request that 5 percent gets donated to your school of choice.”

Next the list urged teens, rather than walking through the doors of the school and beginning to complain, to “think of ways to make your school better.”

Getting a haircut came next on the list, along with a recommendation that those with long hair donate their tresses to “Locks of Love or Wigs for Kids to help kids with cancer.”

The list’s third point was a

recommendation that teens think about where they stand on standardized testing and teen drinking.

No. 2 urged teens to learn about volunteer opportunities that could help meet their school’s service requirement.

Finally, the top thing to do before going back to school was to “trust yourself.” As the list put it, “only you know who you are, what you believe and what you stand for.”

It urged teens to stand by their decisions on “drugs, alcohol, sex, smoking and violence” and to “know how to get out of risky situations before you get into them!”

So many of these 10 points shout 45 “Give!” I like that.

And that final point -- “trust yourself” -- really nails it. Know what you think going in. Bring your Christian values with you and defend them.

You don’t have to yell at the top of your lungs “I’m Catholic and proud of it,” because your actions will make the noise for you. Defend what you believe in simply by refusing to cave in to peer pressure, by standing up for others and avoiding situations you shouldn’t be in anyway.

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Back To School

Tips to get a leg up on back-to-school shoe shopping 46

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

She lived in sandals all summer long and he barely took his cleats off, even to go to bed. Summer fun and casual style may leave your kids facing back-to-school season in serious need of some new shoes.

“Notebooks, pens and new clothes aren’t the only fresh supplies children need when heading back to school. Quality shoes that provide the support growing feet need are among the most important purchases on any back-to-school shopping list,” says Dr. Kathleen Stone, president of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

While your kids will certainly have something to say about the style of shoes they want, back-to-school shoe shopping isn’t child’s play. Parents should consider several important factors before buying new shoes for their children, the APMA advises. n Take your child shoe shopping with you, rather than buying something without your child present.

Every shoe fits differently and buying something in your child’s size doesn’t necessarily ensure a proper, comfortable fit. Measure your child’s feet (both of them, since feet are rarely exactly the same size) and have her try the shoes on. Plus, letting a child have a say in the shoe-buying process can help ensure she adopts healthy foot habits later in life. Children’s foot health is as important as adult foot health. n Feet swell later in the day, so it’s best to try on shoes later in the day when feet are their largest. n When evaluating a shoe, look for a stiff heel.

Press on both sides of the heel counter to measure for stiffness; it shouldn’t collapse. The shoe should bend with your child’s toes. It shouldn’t be too stiff or bend Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

too much in the toe box area. It should also be rigid, and should never twist in the middle. n Don’t rely on last year’s shoes. Children’s feet grow like the rest of their bodies. Shoe and sock sizes may change every few months as their feet grow. Even if last season’s shoes are in good condition, they likely won’t fit properly after several months of your child’s feet growing. n Never hand down footwear. A used shoe may be the right size for your child, but still might not fit comfortably, especially if it’s seen a lot of wear and tear. Just because the shoe fit one child comfortably, doesn’t mean it will fit another the same way. Also, sharing shoes can spread foot fungi like athlete’s foot and nail fungus. n Buy for the larger foot. Mismatched feet are more common than not. Measure your child’s feet to see which is larger and select shoes that best fit the larger foot. n Choose shoes that are comfortable right away.

Avoid shoes that need a “break-in” period. And be sure your child tries shoes on while wearing the type of socks he’ll be wearing with the shoes on a regular basis.

“Healthy feet and comfortable shoes play important roles in children’s overall health,” Stone says. “Parents should monitor their children’s foot health and seek the advice of a podiatrist if they notice a problem.

Podiatrists are specially trained to diagnose and treat ailments of the foot and ankles in people of all ages.”

You can find a podiatrist at the APMA’s website, www.

APMA.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

©2012 NCEA/USCCB

Holy Cross Elementary 2100 Cedar St. Morgan City, LA 70380 Grades PK-6 Mamie Bergeron, Principal Phyllis Jensen, Secretary 384-1933 • Fax 384-3270 holycrosselm@htdiocese.org www.holycrosselementary.org Holy Rosary Elementary P.O. Box 40 Larose, LA 70373 Grades PK-8 Scott Bouzigard, Principal Angie Loupe, Secretary 693-3342 • Fax 693-3348 holyroselm@htdiocese.org www.holyrosary.org St. Gregory Elementary 441 Sixth St. Houma, LA 70364 Grades PS-7 Elizabeth Scurto, Principal Yvonne Lirette, Admin. Asst.

876-2038 • Fax 879-2789 stgregelm@htdiocese.org www.stgregorycatholic.org Maria Immacolata Elementary 324 Estate Dr. Houma, LA 70364 Grades PK-7 Yvonne Weimer, Principal Donna Hill, Secretary 876-1631 • Fax 876-1608 mariaimmacoelm@htdiocese.org www.mariaimmacolata.org St. Bernadette Elementary 309 Funderburk Ave. Houma, LA 70364 Grades PK-7 Joan LeBouef, Principal Susan Chauvin, Secretary 872-3854 • Fax 872-5780 stbernelm@htdiocese.org www.saintbernadettepandas.com

St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School 300 Verret St. Houma, LA 70360 Grades PS-7 Brenda Tanner, Principal Christy Pitre, Secretary 868-6646 • Fax 851-5896 stfranciselm@htdiocese.org www.stfrancishouma.org St. Genevieve Elementary 807 Barbier Ave. Thibodaux, LA 70301 Grades PK-7 Chris Knobloch, Principal Michelle Adams, Secretary 447-9291 • Fax 447-9883 stgenelm@htdiocese.org www.stgenevieveschool.us Holy Savior Elementary 201 Church St. Lockport, LA 70374 Grades PK-8 Tricia Thibodaux, Principal Terri Vedros, Secretary 532-2536 • Fax 532-2269 holysavelm@htdiocese.org www.holysaviorschool.org St. Joseph Elementary 501 Cardinal Dr. Thibodaux, LA 70301 Grades PK-7 Gerard Rodrigue Jr., Principal Barbara Kliebert, Secretary 446-1346 • Fax 449-0760 stjoeelm@htdiocese.org www.stjosephcatholicschool.net

Central Catholic High School 2100 Cedar St. Morgan City, LA 70380 Grades 7-12 Vic Bonnaffee, Principal Sandy Daigle, Secretary 385-5372 • Fax 385-3444 centcathi@htdiocese.org www.cchseagles.com Vandebilt High School 209 S. Hollywood Rd. Houma, LA 70360 Grades 8-12 James Reiss, Principal Shirley Cunningham, Secretary David Keife, President 876-2551 • Fax 868-9774 vandebilthi@htdiocese.org www.vandebiltcatholic.org E.D. White High School 555 Cardinal Dr. Thibodaux, LA 70301 Grades 8-12 Michelle Chiasson, Principal Cathy Hebert, Secretary David Boudreaux, President 446-8486 • Fax 448-1275 edwhitehi@htdiocese.org www.edwhite.org Catholic Schools Office Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Marian Fertitta Superintendent of Schools mfertitta@htdiocese.org Janet Marcel Administrative Assistant 850-3114 • Fax 850-3214

St. Mary’s Nativity Elementary 3492 Nies Street Raceland, LA 70394 Grades PK-8 Marissa Bagala, Principal Judy Watts, Secretary 537-7544 • Fax 537-4020 stmarelm@htdiocese.org

www.edline.net/pages/St_Marys_Nativity_School

Our Catholic schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex or national origin.

Back To School

‘ Extreme

parenting: The Back-to-School Edition

By Bill and Monica Dodds

,

Catholic News Service

“Extreme” competitions from cake baking to world travel continue to make some prime-time television shows popular, but when it comes to parenting, it’s not a good idea.

Here’s a tongue-in-cheek look at how moms and dads could win “Extreme Parenting: The Back-to-School Edition” by going way too far one way or the other.

1. Pull to a complete stop, but don’t shut off the car’s engine when you drop off your child on the first day of the new school year. Yell “see ya!” Then floor it.

(The cameras will love this, especially if you really peel out from the school parking lot.) Or, go in with your student and never leave his or her side. Ever.

2. Spend thousands of dollars to make sure that your 48 child is leading the fashion trend, whatever it may be.

Or, get only “sensible” items for school clothes. Yes, they make your darling look as if he or she just stepped out of a picture from 1965. (Older viewers of the show will really love this: “I had a skirt just like that!”)

The other children won’t tease him or her, will they?

As a rule, classmates are always kind and sensitive, right?

3. Make it known to all, especially to your child’s teacher, that your angel is never at fault, no matter what others may say or see. Completely believe whatever your son or daughter tells you about an “incident.”

(The editors will cut from the incident of your child committing the deed to him or her lying to you about it, a little tear running down a sweet face. That’s good

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

TV!) Or, always take the teacher’s side; assume your child is at fault -- again -- and punish accordingly.

4. Homework? Hey, you’re not in school. You don’t have homework; your child does. Your student is on his or her own. Sink or swim, baby! Or, allow your poor, “ stressed” son or daughter to watch TV, surf the Net, text and chat or play video games while you stay up late, finishing a diorama on “The Secret Garden” (camera close-up on the shoe box.).

5. Let other parents -- a lot of other parents -- know if you disagree with something that your child’s teacher did. That’s not gossiping; it’s healthy networking.

If you must talk to someone official, go straight to the principal. Or, become the “teacher’s little pest” and visit, email, text or phone dozens and dozens of times every week with helpful “feedback” on his or her teaching. (Another close-up: Teacher blocking your phone number.)

6. Make it known that a teacher is a saint, is perfect.

For your child to even hint anything to the contrary is heresy. Or, trash-talk your child’s teacher in front of your child. Trash-talk all teachers. And the profession: “They work six hours on weekdays and have all summer off, plus they have a week’s vacation every month and winter break. Give me a break!”(TV camera shows a clock past midnight and a teacher at a kitchen table with stacks of papers to be corrected.)

Needless to say, a show like that would be a hit, and parenting like that would be a disaster.

Here’s to a successful, “extreme-less” 2013-2014 school year!

NOTICE In accordance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) regulations, each of the thirteen Catholic schools, within the parochial school system of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, has a copy of its Asbestos Management Plan on file in the Principal’s Office. Anyone interested in reviewing a particular schools’ Asbestos Management Plan should first contact the school’s principal to schedule a time for the review.

This notice applies to the following individuals: • Parents of children who attend one of the thirteen Catholic schools within the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

• Teachers and all other employees within the parochial school system of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

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Back To School Back-to-school season - many kids and some parents face it with dread. Kids rue giving up their summer freedom and going back to the hard work of learning.

Parents fear the challenge of getting kids to refocus from pure fun to study modes, especially when they may be recovering from “summer brain drain.”

There’s no avoiding the return to school. But parents can help kids ease the transition by creating an environment that’s comforting -- and conducive to learning at the same time. If your child is struggling to adjust to going back to school, some simple changes in her bedroom might help make the move less difficult.

“Many studies have shown the correlation between academic achievement and an environment welldesigned to facilitate learning activities,” says Todd Imholte, president of Environmental Graphics. “Kids’ rooms need to be a place where they can relax and be themselves, yet also study without distractions.”

Your first step is to communicate with your child to find out her vision for her room. Select a color palette and theme together. What are her likes and dislikes?

Does he want to incorporate a favorite hobby or activity into the decor? Incorporating your child’s design ideas into the room will make him feel like the room belongs to him.

Next, establish areas in the room that will complement how your child uses her room every day.

Your child’s room probably serves multiple functions as 50 sleep center, play room and homework headquarters.

The best children’s rooms are ones that incorporate fun and function, playfulness and practicality.

Bed basics

When was the last time your child didn’t have an opinion about her bed? Probably when she was a newborn. As soon as kids can speak and interact with their environment, they start forming opinions about what their rooms, and especially their beds, should look like. As a parent, you want to be sure her bed is comfortable and practical - essential factors if she’s going to get a good night’s sleep in it. And adequate rest is a must for all kids.

Mom and dad really do know best when it comes to choosing a bed, so go with something that is practical, works for the room decor and gives your child the comfort, support and security she needs to rest well.

Once a bed meets those priorities, you can factor in some fun, like opting for a special shape or color, or adding bunk beds or a trundle bed for fun, easy sleepovers. Seventh Avenue, an online retailer, offers a solid pine version that looks like a classic daybed when the trundle is closed, but easily converts to a side-byside trundle to accommodate guests.

Down to school business

Once he’s well-rested, your youngster will need somewhere in his room to do homework. Some kids may opt to sit on their beds with a lap desk, but most will benefit from a dedicated space in their room where they can get organized and serious about their

a

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

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school work. Your young scholar will need a desk, comfortable chair and a place for his computer.

Older kids can help pick out a desk and chair set that works for their tastes, needs and decor. Consider a functional space-saver, like a corner desk. Seventh Avenue offers a kid-friendly set that comes in bright colors like purple, pink and blue.

Creating comfort

Their own room is the one spot in the house where kids can really put their personal stamp on things.

Allowing children to personalize their own space can help them feel more comfortable and relaxed there.

From choosing a color palette that they love or a theme that speaks to them, to adding furniture pieces emblazoned with their names, there are many ways parents can help children personalize their rooms. If new paint and carpeting aren’t in the budget, a few personalized accessories can completely change the look of a room and enhance kids’ sense of belonging in their own space. Personalized pieces can be as simple as a door placard or wall hanging featuring the child’s name or as special as a personalized child’s rocking chair.

Creating a kid’s room that is fun, functional and comfortable can help ease kids back into the school year - and make them happier and more productive in their own personal spaces.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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51

Back To School

F

Three s that hinder ad ults from going back to school

By MAUREEN PRATT

Catholic News Service

“Back to school” advertisements are everywhere in these last days of summer. I imagine many children are cringing, now that their vacations are over.

But I also imagine that more than a few adults are thinking: “I wish ‘I’ could go back to school!”

Why not?

At various times in my own life, I’ve embarked on learning journeys. Each time, my efforts were met with challenges. But each endeavor was worth it for the knowledge, satisfaction and selfconfidence that resulted when I 52

moved into unknown territory.

But first I had to deal with three things that can impede “going back to school”: fear, finances and fatigue.

Whenever we start something new, it is natural to feel some apprehension. Perhaps the fear stems from the possibility of failing. Perhaps it is because, as the oldest person in a class, feeling out of place will happen.

Also, fear of doing something new might be tied to an unpleasant experience. I remember my secondgrade teacher trying doggedly to get me to roll the letter “r” in Spanish (which I couldn’t do), much to the

glee of the rest of the class. I still hear my classmates’ laughter.

It wasn’t until 20 years later, when I was studying abroad in Spain, that I finally overcame my fear of being ridiculed.

Adults have an excellent weapon against fear: their life’s experience.

They have already conquered many fears. Being a father or mother, for example, takes great courage and strength. Meeting unexpected challenges in life in

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Ready or not, the next school year is near.

With the uSave Club, saving for those added expenses during the school year is easier than ever because you choose the month of maturity. Open your uSave Club account today and start saving for everything from extra curricular activities and clubs to preparing for graduation.

Open online today at banksynergy.com

/SynergyBank Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

o t k c a B chool S “No Regrets at Lirette” Ben Ledet

Boot Caldarera

Ronnie Lirette

Mary Fisher

Kenny “Q” Frederick

Vu Vuong

Mark Verrett

Hollie Pearce

Mario Guarisco

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Back To School

54

general brings courage, too. That courage translates into the ability to meet other fears head-on -- even the fear of going back to school.

While education can be expensive and finances these days can be stretched to a breaking point, a lack of money does not need prevent anyone from learning a new skill or subject: n Abraham Lincoln studied law by reading every moment he could while working as a surveyor (among other things). n Ray Bradbury, the celebrated author, learned how to write books by sitting in the library and reading everything he could. n Church-sponsored book clubs and discussion groups are inexpensive, excellent ways to learn and share that knowledge in a group. n The Internet is an endless source of learning via chat groups, blogs and “breaking news” programs.

Community colleges, artist studios, high school and local museums are among the places offering adult education. Many

organizations, including some universities, have embraced “distance learning,” offering online classes that can be taken at a person’s own pace. Some institutions even offer financial aid and scholarships for adults who want to further their education.

It never hurts to explore what’s available!

It can seem overwhelming for an adult who has multiple responsibilities to fight fatigue in order to go back to school. But with a little creativity, flexibility and willpower, the time to learn can be folded into one’s daily schedule.

And as soon as the learning begins again, the exhilaration that comes with meeting a particular challenge is energizing!

One of the first people that I worked for when I was in college told me, “Get as much education as you can. Once you learn something, no one can take it away from you.

It’s yours for life.”

Going back to school can occur at anytime and in any way in our world today.

We’ve only just begun to learn!

Leslie Daigle, PT • Eddie Himel, PT, DSc., OCS, Cert. MDT • John Daigle, PT, OCS, COMT Tracy Peltier, PT, CMT • Steven Landry, OT, CHT • Sawyer Triche, PT, DPT

447-3164

808 Bayou Lane

Thibodaux

876-1155

1321 Grand Caillou

Houma

223-4760

125 Bayou Gardens

Houma

ww w.ptc enter -la.c om Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • July 2013

Morgan Dupre, a seventh grade student at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School, Houma, was awarded first place at the local level for photography in the 2013 Catholic Daughters Education Contest.

Dupre went on to place third at the state level. Court Cardinal Gibbons No. 177 of Houma sponsored Dupre.

Back to

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! o 13 e h v i w r 0 l l 2-2 d D a n to 201 u F l a a d u e t n r n o A p l p su choo S c i l o h

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©2012 NCEA/USCCB

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Over $1,965,683 raised for Catholic education diocesan wide.

Your continued support for the Catholic Schools’ Annuual Fund Drive is greatly appreciated and needed.

To learn more about the Annual Fund Plan, visit your schools’ website or the diocese at www.htstewardship.org

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

2779 Hwy. 311 • P.O. Box 505 • Schriever, LA 70395 (985) 850-3155 • Fax (985) 850-3255