Bayou Catholic Magazine | May 2013

Bayou

Catholic

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

Graduation Special Inside

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Contents

On Our Cover

Alyssa Landry, a sixth grader at Holy Cross Elementary School in Morgan City, places a crown of flowers on a statue of the Blessed Mother at Holy Cross School. May holds the day we honor all mothers, and since Mary is the spiritual mother of all Christians, it is appropriate that we honor Mary in a special way at this time.

Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier

Jesus Is Lord Who is the Holy Spirit?

22 Heavenly Recipes

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Ordination

Our Churches

Rev. Mr. Engurait to be ordained May 25

St. Bridget Church in Schriever

Green beans with ground beef

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Our Schools

Graduation

St. Mary’s Nativity in Raceland

Salute to the Class of 2013

• Pope Speaks

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• Question Corner

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44 • Reflections

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• Young Voices

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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. 32, No. 11 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 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.

• Year of Faith

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• Youth Rally

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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 .............................. 33 Annual Bishop’s Appeal ............................. 23 Barker Honda ............................................. 64 Bueche’s Jewelry ....................................... 49 Cannata’s ..................................................... 3 Catholic Communication Campaign Collection ............................... 41 Central Catholic High School .................... 59 Channel 10 ................................................. 35 Charles A. Page & Sons ............................ 75 Chauvin Funeral Home/Twin City .............. 62 Conference Office ...................................... 19 Daigle Himel Daigle ................................... 79 Diocesan Outreach Line .............................. 5 Diocesan Website ...................................... 43 Dr. Neil Maki ............................................... 66 E.D. White Catholic High School ............... 65 Fabregas Music ......................................... 75 Falgout Funeral Homes, LLC ..................... 83 Felger’s Footwear ...................................... 60 God’s Promises Books & Gifts .................. 37 God’s Precious Word & Gifts ..................... 73 Haydel Spine & Pain .................................... 9 Headache & Pain Center ............................. 2 KEM Supply House, Inc. ............................ 87 Lafourche Ford Lincoln .............................. 57 Landry’s Funeral Home/Thibodaux Funeral Home ......................................... 77 LeBlanc & Associates, Inc. ........................ 87 Lewis and Company .................................... 9 Lirette Ford Lincoln .................................... 81 Marie’s Wrecker Service ............................ 71 Mary Bird Perkins ....................................... 27 Mpress ....................................................... 85 Office of Youth Ministry .............................. 58 Re-Bath ...................................................... 54 Rod’s Superstore ....................................... 47 Samart Funeral Home & Crematorium of Houma ................................................. 85 SEECA ........................................................ 39 Seminarian Burses ..................................... 29 Southland Dodge ....................................... 70 Southland Mall ........................................... 88 Spotlight ..................................................... 53 St. Francis de Sales Cemetery No. 2 ......... 51 St. Joseph Manor ....................................... 53 Synergy Bank ............................................. 68 Terminix ...................................................... 85 Terrebonne General Medical Center ......... 25 The Wishing Well ....................................... 34 Thibodaux Physical Therapy ..................... 69 Thibodaux Regional Medical Center ......... 21 Vandebilt Catholic High School ................. 61 Vision Communications ............................. 67 Vocations Office ......................................... 63

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

Hail Mary

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As flowers are in bloom we are reminded not only of the beauty of spring, but of its signs of nature renewing itself. It is for this reason that the Catholic Church chose May as the “Month of Mary.” In her way, Mary gave new life to the world when she gave birth to Our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Many of our churches, schools and groups honor the Blessed Mother with May Crownings and with a renewed vigor in the praying of the rosary. It is especially good to see so many of our people giving Mary a place of honor inside and outside their homes.

The rosary, Blessed Pope John Paul II wrote in his apostolic letter Rosarium Virginis Mariae in 2002, is “simple yet profound, it still remains, at the dawn of this third millennium, a prayer of great significance, destined to bring forth a harvest of holiness.”

The pope described it as “Blessed Rosary of Mary, sweet chain linking us to God.” He said it blends easily into the spiritual journey of the Christian life. The church, he wrote, “has always attributed particular efficacy to this prayer, entrusting to the rosary, to its choral recitation and to its constant practice, the most difficult problems. At times when Christianity itself seemed under threat, its deliverance was attributed to the power of this prayer, and Our Lady of the Rosary was acclaimed as the one whose intercession brought salvation.

Blessed John Paul II went on to “entrust to the power of this prayer … the cause of peace in the world and the cause of the family.”

The chart on the facing page is a handy tool to have when praying the rosary. It provides all the steps necessary to properly express the beauty of this prayer through the different mysteries.

Rosarium is a latin word meaning “rose garden.” Some see the stringing of beads with a cross as its main feature, as a “crown of roses” for Mary.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

This statue of the Blessed Mother is located at Our Lady of the Rosary Church parish in Larose.

We are all encouraged to continue to pray the rosary and to teach and ask others to do the same. Please feel free to make copies of the chart and distribute them among family, friends and neighbors.

Further information may be obtained from www. saltandlighttv.org and from www.newadvent.org, among others.

Hail Mary, Holy Queen!

How to recite the Holy Rosary

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You are encouraged to copy and distribute this sheet. • www.newadvent.org www.bayoucatholic.com

ScriptureReadings Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

1 May

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Thursday

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and a listing of Feast days and saints.

Friday

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Sunday

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Easter Weekday Acts 16:1-10 John 15:18-21

Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 15:1-2, 22-29 Revelation 21:1014, 22-23 John 14:23-29

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Easter Weekday Easter Weekday Acts 16:22-34 Acts 16:11-15 John 15:26—16:4a John 16:5-11

Easter Weekday Acts 17:15, 22— 18:1 John 16:12-15

Easter Weekday Solemnity of the Acts 18:9-18 Ascension John 16:20-23 of the Lord Acts 1:1-11 Ephesians 1:17-23 Luke 24:46-53

Easter Weekday Acts 18:23-28 John 16:23b-28

Seventh Sunday of Easter Acts 7:55-60 Revelation 22:1214, 16-17, 20 John 17:20-26

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Easter Weekday Acts 19:1-8 John 16:29-33

Feast of Matthias, apostle Acts 1:15-17, 20-26 John 15:9-17

Easter Weekday Acts 20:28-38 John 17:11b-19

Easter Weekday Easter Weekday Acts 22:30, 23:6-11 Acts 25:13b-21 John 17:20-26 John 21:15-19

Easter Weekday Acts 28:16-20, 30-31 John 21:20-25 Vigil: Genesis 11:1-9 Romans 8:22-27 John 7:37-39

Solemnity of Pentecost Acts 2:1-11 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13 John 20:19-23

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Weekday Sirach 1:1-10 Mark 9:14-29

Weekday Sirach 2:1-11 Mark 9:30-37

Weekday Sirach 4:11-19 Mark 9:38-40

Weekday Sirach 5:1-8 Mark 9:41-50

Weekday Sirach 6:5-17 Mark 10:1-12

Weekday Sirach 17:1-15 Mark 10:13-16

Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity Proverbs 8:22-31 Romans 5:1-5 John 16:12-15

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1 June

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Weekday Sirach 17:20-24 Mark 10:17-27

Weekday Sirach 35:1-12 Mark 10:28-31

Weekday Sirach 36:1, 4-5a, 10-17 Mark 10:32-45

Weekday Sirach 42:15-25 Mark 10:46-52

Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Zephaniah 3:14-18a Luke 1:39-56

Memorial of Justin, martyr Sirach 51:12cd-20 Mark 11:27-33

Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ Genesis 14:18-20 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Luke 9:11b-17

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Memorial of Boniface, bishop and martyr Tobit 3:1-11a, 1617a Mark 12:18-27

Weekday Tobit 6:10-11; 7:1bcde, 9-17, 8:4-9a Mark 12:28-34

Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Ezekiel 34:11-16 Romans 5:5b-11 Luke 15:3-7

Memorial of Charles Weekday Lwanga Tobit 2:9-14 and companions, Mark 12:13-17 martyrs Tobit 1:3, 2:1b-8 Mark 12:1-12

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Saturday

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Rev. Gerard C. Hayes Rev. Gerard C. Hayes, a retired priest of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, died April 17, at the age of 81. Father Hayes served in a number of parishes, particularly at St. Anthony of Padua in Bayou Black where he was pastor from 1972 to 2005. A native of Boston, MA, he was ordained to the priesthood in 1960.

Spiritual Bouquet St. Genevieve Elementary School in Thibodaux along with the parish CCD program prepared a spiritual bouquet for Pope Francis I. Pictured from left are Father Dean Danos, pastor; Father Philip Vathyiakaril, associate pastor; Sister Lauren Lindee, religious education coordinator; Chris Knobloch, school principal; and fourth grade student Thomas Pate, who came up with the idea. The bouquet consists of 65 Our Father’s, 65 Hail Mary’s, 65 Glory Be’s, 371 confessions, 502 Masses and 455 divine mercy novenas.

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Comment Jesus Is Lord Bishop Sam G. Jacobs

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The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Blessed Trinity, is one who is most unknown by the ordinary person. We can relate when we talk about God the Father, because we all have experiences with a human father, who, in the ideal, is to reflect God the Father. We can relate to the God the Son because he became Man, Jesus the Christ. But the God the Holy Spirit is harder to wrap our hands around.

This is not a new struggle in the history of the church. From the beginning of the Scriptures, the Spirit has been spoken about, but it is not until Jesus’ proclamations and the further understanding of the early church that we have come to an appreciation of the person and the purpose of the Holy Spirit in salvation history.

What do the New Testament Scriptures say about the Holy Spirit?

In the first two chapters of Luke’s Gospel, we find either explicitly or implicitly the term: “Filled with the Holy Spirit.”

Seven persons are said to be filled with the Holy Spirit: John the Baptist (Luke 1:15), Mary (Luke 1:28, 35); Jesus (Luke 1:35); Elizabeth (Luke 1:41) Zechariah (Luke 1:67); Simeon (Luke 2:25); and Anna (Luke 2:38).

In the Acts of the Apostles, also written by Luke, we find the same term used frequently: the 120 in the Upper Room (Acts

CNS PHOTO

In the election of Pope Francis we can see the continual role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church. Jesus said he would be with his church until the end of time. He said that the Spirit will lead the church until the end. Under the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the College of Cardinals chose the one who would be the right Vicar for Christ, successor of Peter for God’s people at this time.

2:4); Peter (Acts 4:8); the early Christians (Acts 4:31); the first seven deacons (Acts 6:3); Stephen (Acts 7:55); people in Samaria (Acts 8:17); Paul (Acts 9:17); Cornelius and household (Act 10:44) Barnabas (Act 11:24); the disciples in Ephesus (Acts 19:6).

Both John the Baptizer and Jesus spoke of the same experience using different words. John indicated that the Messiah would baptize the people with the Holy Spirit and fire. Jesus, in his final address to the apostles prior to his ascension, told them they were to return to Jerusalem and wait for the coming of the Spirit. At that time, “You shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit. … You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you shall be my witnesses … to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:5, 8).

How was the Spirit manifested in Jesus and his ministry?

First of all, Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the virgin womb of Mary. Secondly, when Jesus began his public ministry, he made a public gift of his life to the Father by being baptized in the Jordan. Luke tells us that after his baptism, while in prayer, a voice from heaven said: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” And the Holy Spirit came down upon him like a dove. “Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit” (Luke 3: 21-22; 4:1). Peter on the Day of Pentecost in his first sermon confirmed this: “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power” (Acts 10:38). In his humanity, Jesus was filled with the Spirit and in his humanity performed

Who is the Holy Spirit?

Part I of II Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

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signs and wonders in the power of the Spirit as his credentials.

What did Jesus teach about the Holy Spirit?

Again we look to Luke. He tells us that God desires to give us his Holy Spirit, but we must ask. “If you, then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him” (Luke 11:13).

The Gospel of John gives us more of the teachings of Jesus on the Holy Spirit. When Nicodemus came to Jesus to ask about his ministry, Jesus focused on the need and means for salvation: “Truly, truly I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). To the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, he alluded to the Holy Spirit when he said: “Everyone who drinks of this water (from the well) will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13). Later, he identifies what he means. “If any one thirst, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.’ Now this he said about the Spirit, which those who believed in him were to receive; for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified” (John 7:37-39).

It is in the Last Supper discourse that Jesus speaks more explicitly about the role of the Holy Spirit. “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him; you know him, for he dwells with you, and will be in you” (John 14:16-17).

Three things are of importance.

First, Jesus asks the Father for the Holy Spirit. This is what we read in the citation from Luke above. Secondly, the Spirit is another Counselor or Advocate for us, following Jesus himself. He guides us and defends us. Thirdly, the Spirit, given to us in baptism, remains with us

and in us. Do we recognize his presence?

Next Jesus says: “The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you” (John 14:26). The Spirit in-

ual role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the church. Jesus said he would be with his church until the end of time. He said that the Spirit will lead the church until the end. Under the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the College of Cardinals chose the one who would

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LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

structs us in the truth revealed by Jesus Christ. Earlier, Jesus said in Mark: “When they bring you to trial and deliver you up, do not be anxious beforehand about what you are to say; but say whatever is given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit” (Mark 13:11).

In conclusion, in the election of Pope Francis we can see the contin-

be the right Vicar for Christ, successor of Peter for God’s people at this time. He has already breathed a fresh new spirit in the world, indicating some new insights into the true identity of the missionary church that Jesus desires. Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can this be achieved. Praise God for our new shepherd and the vision he brings to the church! www.bayoucatholic.com

Comentario

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¿Qué es el Espíritu Santo?

Primera Parte

El Espíritu Santo, el tercer personaje de la Santísima Trinidad, es el más desconocido por la gente en general. Logramos una mejor comprensión del concepto de Dios el Padre porque todos vivimos la experiencia de un padre humano — que idealmente se asemeja a Dios el Padre. Entendemos mejor el concepto de Dios el Hijo porque Él se hizo Hombre: Cristo Jesús.

Pero Dios el Espíritu Santo es más difícil de asimilar.

Esto no es una nueva lucha en la historia de la Iglesia. Desde el inicio de las Escrituras, se ha hablado del Espíritu, pero no ha sido sino hasta la proclamación de Jesús y una mayor compresión de la Iglesia primitiva que hemos llegado a tener un mejor entendimiento del personaje y el propósito del Espíritu Santo en la historia de la salvación. ¿Qué dicen las Escrituras del Nuevo Testamento sobre el Espíritu Santo?

En los primeros capítulos del Evangelio según San Lucas, vemos el término de manera explícita o implícita: «Lleno del Espíritu Santo.» Se dice que siete personajes han sido llenados del Espíritu Santo: Juan Bautista (Lucas 1:15), María (Lucas 1:28, 35); Jesús (Lucas 1:35); Isabel (Lucas 1:41), Zacarías (Lucas 1:67); Simeón (Lucas 2:25) y Ana (Lucas 2:38).

En los Hechos de los Apóstoles, escrito también por San Lucas, vemos el mismo término usado con frecuencia: los 120 en la habitación superior (Hechos 2:4); Pedro (Hechos 4:8), los primeros cristianos (Hechos 4:31), los primeros siete diáconos (Hechos 6:3), Esteban (Hechos 7:55), los samaritanos (Hechos 8:17), Pablo (Hechos 9:17), Cornelio y su familia (Hechos 10:44), Bernabé (Hechos 11:24), los discípulos en Efeso (Hechos 19:6).

Ambos Juan Bautista

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

y Jesús hablaron de la misma experiencia usando diferentes palabras. Juan indicó que el Mesías iba a bautizar con el Espíritu Santo y fuego. Jesús, en su último discurso a los apóstoles antes de su ascensión, les dijo que deberían regresar a Jerusalén y esperar la venida del Espíritu. En ese momento, «Serán bautizados con el Espíritu Santo… recibirán la fuerza del Espíritu Santo, que vendrá sobre ustedes y serán mis testigos hasta los límites de la tierra.» (Hechos 1:5, 8). ¿Cómo se manifestó el Espíritu en Jesús y su ministerio?

Primero, Jesús fue concebido por el Espíritu Santo en el vientre virgen de María. Segundo, cuando

Jesús comenzó su ministerio, otorgó el don de su vida al Padre siendo bautizado en el Jordán. Lucas nos dice que después de su bautismo, mientras oraba, una voz desde el cielo le dijo: «Tú eres mi Hijo, el Amado, al que miro con cariño.» Y se vio que el Espíritu Santo bajaba sobre Él en forma de paloma. «Jesús, lleno del Espíritu Santo, volvió de las orillas del Jordán y se dejó guiar por el Espíritu.» (Lucas 3: 2122; 4:1). Pedro en su primer sermón en el Día de Pentecostés confirmó lo siguiente: «Dios consagró a Jesús de Nazaret con el Espíritu Santo, comunicándole su poder.» (Hechos 10:38). Jesús siendo hombre, se llenó del Espíritu y llevó a cabo señales y milagros usando como

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sus credenciales la fuerza del Espíritu. ¿Qué nos enseñó Jesús sobre el Espíritu Santo?

De nuevo vemos lo que nos dice San Lucas. Nos cuenta que Dios quiere darnos su Espíritu Santo pero debemos pedírselo. «Si ustedes que son malos saben dar cosas buenas a sus hijos, cuánto más el Padre del cielo dará el Espíritu Santo a los que se lo pidan.» (Lucas 11:13) El Evangelio según San Juan nos dice más de las enseñanzas de Jesús sobre el Espíritu Santo.

Cuando Nicodemo le preguntó a Jesús acerca de su ministerio, Jesús enfatizó la necesidad y el método de la salvación: «En verdad te digo: El que no renace del agua y del Espíritu no puede entrar en el Reino de Dios» (Juan 3:5). Jesús le habló a la samaritana, en el pozo de Jacob, sobre el Espíritu Santo diciendo: «El que bebe de esta agua (del pozo), vuelve a tener sed, pero el que beba del agua que yo le daré, no volverá más a tener sed. Porque el agua que yo le daré se hará en él manantial de agua que brotará para vida eterna» (Juan 4:13).

Después, explica lo que quiere decir: «Si alguien tiene sed, venga a mí y beba. Si alguien cree en mí, el agua brotará en él, según lo anunció la Escritura. Al decir esto, se refería al Espíritu Santo que luego recibirían los que creyeran en él. Todavía no se comunicaba el Espíritu, porque Jesús aún no había entrado en su gloria» (Juan 7:37-39).

Es durante el discurso de la Última Cena que Jesús explica con más detalle el papel que desenvuelve el Espíritu Santo: «Si ustedes me aman, guardarán mis mandamientos, y yo rogaré al Padre y les dará otro Defensor que permanecerá siempre con ustedes.

Este es el Espíritu de Verdad, que el mundo no puede recibir porque no lo ve ni lo conoce. Pero ustedes lo conocen porque permanece con ustedes y estará con ustedes» (Juan 14:16-17).

Hay tres cosas importantes: Primero, Jesús le pide al Padre que lo llene del Espíritu Santo. Esto es lo que acabamos de haber leído en la cita de Lucas. Segundo, el Espíritu es otro Defensor o Abogado nuestro, siguiendo a Jesús mismo.

Él nos guía y nos defiende. Tercero, el Espíritu, que hemos recibido en el bautismo y que permanece con nosotros y en nosotros. ¿Reconocemos su presencia?

Luego, Jesús dice: «En adelante el Espíritu Santo Defensor, que el Padre les enviará en mi nombre, les va a enseñar todas las cosas y les va a recordar todas

podemos apreciar el papel continuo que desempeña el Espíritu Santo en la vida de la Iglesia. Jesús dijo que estará con su Iglesia hasta el fin de los tiempos. Dijo que el Espíritu guiará a la Iglesia hasta el fin. Bajo la guía e inspiración del Espíritu Santo, el Colegio Cardenalicio eligió al Vicario de Cristo apropiado, el actual sucesor

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mis palabras» (Juan 14:26). El Espíritu nos instruye en la verdad que Jesucristo nos ha revelado.

Antes, Jesús dijo en el Evangelio según San Marcos: «Y cuando los lleven para ser entregados a los tribunales, no se preocupen por lo que van a decir; sino que digan lo que se les inspire en ese momento.

Porque no serán ustedes lo que hablarán, sino el Espíritu Santo» (Marcos 13:11).

Concluyo diciendo que en la elección del Papa Francisco

de Pedro para el pueblo de Dios. Él ya ha transmitido un espíritu fresco y nuevo en el mundo, revelando nuevos adelantos sobre la verdadera identidad de la Iglesia misionera que Jesús quiere. Esto se puede lograr únicamente a través de la fuerza del Espíritu Santo. ¡Alabemos a Dios por nuestro nuevo pastor y por la visión que él le otorga a la Iglesia!

Traducido por Julio Contreras, feligrés de la Iglesia Católica Annunziata, Houma. www.bayoucatholic.com

Binh luan bang loi

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Chuùa Thaùnh Thaàn Laø Ai? (phaàn ½)

Chuùa Thaùnh Thaàn, Ngoâi Ba Thieân Chuùa, Moät Ngoâi Vò maø nhieàu ngöôøi bình thöôøng ít bieát ñeán. Chuùng ta deã lieân heä vôùi Chuùa Cha bôûi vì ai trong chuùng ta cuõng coù cha traàn theá, moät ngöôøi lyù töôûng maø chuùng ta phaûn aûnh Cha treân trôøi. Chuùng ta coù theå lieân heä ñeán Chuùa Con vì Ngaøi ñaõ xuoáng theá laøm ngöôøi, goïi laø Chuùa Gieâsu Kytoâ. Nhöng Chuùa Thaùnh Thaàn thì khoù coù ñöôïc caùi nhìn vöõng chaéc. Ñaây khoâng phaûi laø nhöõng khoù khaên môùi meû neáu nhìn vaøo lòch söû Giaùo Hoäi. Ngay töø luùc khôûi ñaàu trong Kinh Thaùnh, Thaùnh Thaàn ñaõ ñöôïc nhaéc ñeán, nhöng khoâng roõ veà Ngaøi cho ñeán khi Chuùa Gieâsu rao giaûng Tin Möøng vaø veà söï quan phoøng cuûa Ngaøi daønh Cho Giaùo Hoäi sô khai, chính vì theá chuùng ta hieåu roõ Ngaøi hôn trong lòch söû cöùu roãi.

Taân öôùc noùi gì veà Chuùa Thaùnh Thaàn? Trong hai ñoaïn ñaàu cuûa Phuùc AÂm Luca minh baïch hay khoâng chuùng ta nghe thaáy danh Ngaøi, “Traøn ñaày Thaùnh Thaàn.” Baûy ngöôøi ñöôïc traøn ñaày Thaùnh Thaàn nhö: Gioan Taåy Giaû (Luca 1:15), Ñöùc Maria (Luca 1:28, 35), Chuùa Gieâsu (Luca 1;35), Baø Elizabeùt (Luca 1:41), OÂng Zacaria (Luca 1:67), OÂng Simeâon (Luca 2:25) vaø Baø Anna (Luca 2:38).

Trong saùch Toâng Ñoà Coâng Vuï, cuõng do chính Thaùnh Söû Luca bieân nhaéc ñeán Thaùnh Thaàn raát nhieàu: 120 ngöôøi trong phoøng tieäc ly (TÑCV, Toâng Ñoà Coâng Vuï 2:4), Thaùnh Pheâroâ (TÑCV 4:8), nhöõng Kytoâ tieân khôûi (TÑCV 4:31), baûy thaày saùu ñaàu tieân (TÑCV 6:3), OÂng Stephanoâ (TÑCV 11:24), moät soá ngöôøi ôû Samaria (TÑCV 8:17), Thaùnh Phaoloâ (TÑCV 9:17), OÂng Coneolioâ vaø caû nhaø oâng (TÑCV 10:44), Thaùnh Banaba (TÑCV 11:24) vaø caùc moân ñeä ôû EÂpheâsoâ (TÑCV 19:6). Chuùa Gieâsu vaø Gioan Taåy Giaû vaû hai ñeàu noùi veà moät kinh nghieäm vôùi lôøi leõ khaùc nhau.

Gioan aùm chæ raèng Ñaáng Cöùu Ñoä seõ röûa cho moïi ngöôøi trong thaàn khí vaø löûa. Coøn Chuùa Gieâsu, tröôùc khi

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

leân trôøi thì noùi vôùi caùc toâng ñoà trôû laïi Gieârusalem troâng chôø Chuùa Thaùnh Thaàn ñeán. Vaøo thôøi ñieåm ñoù, “Caùc con seõ röûa trong Thaùnh Thaàn….Caùc con seõ laõnh nhaän quyeàn naêng khi Thaùnh Thaàn ñeán vaø caùc con seõ laøm chöùng cho Thaày cho ñeán taän cuøng traùi ñaát” (TÑCV 1:5,8).

Thaùnh Thaàn ñaõ theå hieän baèng caùch naøo trong Chuùa Gieâsu vaø söù maïng cuûa Ngaøi? Thöù nhaát, Chuùa Gieâsu ñaõ ñöôïc cöu mang trong loøng Trinh Nöõ Maria do quyeàn naêng Thaùnh Thaàn. Thöù hai, khi baét ñaàu rao giaûng Chuùa Gieâsu daâng hieán thaân Mình coâng khai cho Chuùa Cha baèng pheùp röûa do Gioan Taåy Giaû. Thaùnh söû Luca noùi raèng sau khi chòu pheùp röûa xong, vaø trong khi caàu nguyeän thì töø treân cao coù tieáng voïng xuoáng: “Con laø Con Yeâu Daáu;

Ta haøi loøng vì Con.” Vaø Thaàn Khí ngöï xuoáng treân Ngaøi döôùi hình chim boà caâu. “Chuùa Gieâsu traøn ñaày Thaùnh Thaàn töø soâng Gio ñan vaø ñöôïc Chuùa Thaùnh Thaàn höôùng daãn” (Luca 3:2122, 4:1). Thaùnh Pheâroâ trong ngaøy Thaùnh Thaàn hieän xuoáng ñaõ long troïng tuyeân boá nhö sau: “Thieân Chuùa ñaõ xöùc daàu treân Chuùa Gieâsu thaønh Nazareùt vôùi thaàn khí vaø quyeàn naêng” (TÑCV 10:38). Chính trong xaùc phaøm Chuùa Gieâsu cuøng Thaùnh Thaàn vaø chính trong thaân xaùc ñoù vôùi quyeàn naêng Thaùnh Thaàn ñaõ laøm nhieàu daáu laï vaø bieán coá ñeå chöùng toû Ngaøi laø ai.

Chuùa Gieâsu daïy chuùng ta ñieàu gì veà Thaùnh Thaàn? Moät laàn nöõa chuùng ta nhìn vaøo Luca. Ngaøi noùi raèng Thieân Chuùa ao öôùc cho chuùng ta laõnh nhaän Thaùnh Thaàn, nhöng

a

chuùng ta caàn phaûi caàu xin. “Neáu caùc ngöôi laø nhöõng ngöôøi xaáu sa, maø coøn bieát cho con caùi mình nhöõng ñieàu toát, vaäy thì Cha treân trôøi toát laønh laïi khoâng ban Thaùnh Thaàn maø caùc con xin Ngaøi sao” (Luca 11:13)?

Tin Möøng theo Thaùnh Gioan cho chuùng ta nhieàu lôøi daïy veà Thaùnh Thaàn. Khi OÂng Nicoâñeâmoâ ñeán gaëp Chuùa Gieâsu xin tham khaûo veà söù maïng cuûa Ngaøi thì Chuùa nhaán maïnh veà söï caàn thieát vaø yù nghóa cuûa söï cöùu roãi. “Quaû thaät, quûa thaät Ta noùi cho oâng hay, tröø khi oâng sinh laïi bôûi nöôùc vaø Thaùnh Thaàn, oâng seõ khoâng ñöôïc vaøo thieân ñaøng” (Gioan 3:5). Vôùi ngöôøi ñaøn baø gaëp ôû gieáng Giacoùp thì Chuùa Gieâsu aùm chæ veà Thaùnh Thaàn nhö sau: “Nhöõng ai maø uoáng nöôùc naøy thì seõ bò khaùt nöõa, nhöng neáu ai uoáng nöôùc maø Ta ban seõ khoâng coøn khaùt nöõa; nöôùc maø Ta ban seõ cho hoï soáng ñôøi ñôøi” (Gioan 4:13). Sau ñoù, Ngaøi vaïch roõ cho chuùng ta nhöõng gì Ngaøi ñaõ noùi, “Neáu ai khaùt, haõy ñeán vôùi Ta vaø Ta seõ cho nöôùc uoáng. Neáu ai tin Ta nhö Kinh Thaùnh ñaõ noùi, ‘trong traùi tim Ngaøi seõ tuoân ra nguoàn nöôùc haèng soáng.’ Baây giôø Ngaøi noùi veà Thaùnh Thaàn daønh cho nhöõng ai tin vaøo Ngaøi ñeå ñöôïc laõnh nhaän, nhöng baây giôø Thaùnh Thaàn chöa ñeán, vì chöa tôùi giôø Chuùa Gieâsu ñöôïc toân vinh” (Gioan 7:37-39).

Chính trong böõa tieäc ly maø Chuùa Gieâsu noùi roõ veà vai troø cuûa Thaùnh Thaàn. “Neáu caùc con meán Thaày, caùc con seõ giöõ leänh truyeàn cuûa Thaày. Thaày seõ xin Cha Thaày, vaø Ngaøi seõ ban cho caùc con Ñaáng Phuï Trôï, ñeå Ngaøi luoân ôû vôùi caùc con, chính Thaùnh Thaàn chaân lyù maø theá gian khoâng nhaän bieát Ngaøi, bôûi vì chuùng khoâng thaáy Ngaøi, vaø bieát Ngaøi; caùc con bieát Ngaøi, vì Ngaøi ngöï trong chuùng con vaø ôû vôùi chuùng con” (Gioan 14:16-17).

Ba ñieàu toái quan troïng. Thöù nhaát, Chuùa Gieâsu xin Chuùa Cha göûi Thaùnh Thaàn ñeán. Ñieàu ñoù ñöôïc theå hieän trong nhöõng caâu trích töø saùch Phuùc AÂm Luca. Thöù hai, Thaùnh Thaàn laø Ñaáng Phuï Trôï hay Baûo Hoä cho chuùng ta. Ngaøi ñeán sau Chuùa Gieâsu. Ngaøi höôùng daãn vaø bao boïc chuùng ta. Thöù ba, chuùng ta laõnh nhaän Thaùnh Thaàn trong Bí Tích Röûa Toäi, Ngaøi ôû vôùi chuùng ta vaø trong chuùng ta. Chuùng ta coù thaáy söï hieän dieän cuûa Ngaøi khoâng?

Sau ñoù Ngaøi noùi: “Ñaáng Baûo Hoä, laø Thaùnh Thaàn maø Chuùa Cha seõ göûi tôùi nhaân danh Thaày, Ngaøi seõ daïy caùc con moïi ñieàu, vaø nhaéc cho caùc con nhôù laïi nhöõng gì Thaày ñaõ daïy” (Gioan 14:26). Chuùa Thaùnh Thaàn

vaïch roõ cho chuùng ta söï thaät maø Chuùa Gieâsu ñaõ truyeàn daïy. Truôùc ñoù, lôøi noùi cuûa Chuùa Gieâsu trong Phuùc AÂm Macoâ nhö sau: “Khi chuùng ñöa chuùng con ra xeùt xöû vaø leân aùn caùc con, ñöøng lo laéng phaûi noùi gì, nhöng caùc con chæ caàn noùi nhöõng gì seõ maëc khaûi trong giôø xeùt xöû, vì khoâng phaûi caùc con noùi

öùng cuûa Thaùn Thaàn, caùc Hoàng Y ñaõ choïn moät vò xöùng ñaùng laø ngöôøi ñaïi dieän Chuùa Kytoâ, ngöôøi thöøa keá Pheâroâ cho ngaøy hoâm nay. Thaùnh Thaàn ñaõ thoåi luoàng khí môùi trong theá giôùi, vaïch roõ moät caùi nhìn xaùc thöïc hôn veà caên tính rao giaûng cuûa Giaùo Hoäi maø Chuùa Gieâsu haèng mong muoán. Chæ coù

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nhöng laø Thaùnh Thaàn” (Macoâ 13:11).

Keát luaän, nhìn vaøo Maät Nghò baàu Giaùo Hoaøng choïn Ñöùc Phanxicoâ chuùng ta coù theå thaáy ñöôïc hoaït ñoäng cuûa Thaùnh Thaàn vaãn tieáp tuïc trong loøng Giaùo Hoäi. Chuùa Gieâsu noùi laø Ngaøi seõ ôû vôùi Giaùo Hoäi cho ñeán taän cuøng traùi ñaát. Ngaøi noùi raèng Thaùnh Thaàn seõ huôùng daãn Giaùo Hoäi cho ñeán taän theá. Döôùi söï che chôû vaø linh

quyeàn naêng Thaùnh Thaàn môùi coù theå laøm ñöôïc nhö theá. Chuùc tuïng Thieân Chuùa ñaõ cho chuùng ta moät muïc töû vaø moät höôùng ñi môùi maø Giaùo Hoaøng mang ñeán. Dòch thuaät: Cha Pheâroâ Taøi Leâ, cha xöù nhaø thôø Our Lady of the Isle.

Dòch thuaät: Linh Muïc Pheâroâ Leâ Taøi, Chaùnh sôû nhaø thôø Our Lady of the Isle. www.bayoucatholic.com

Comment This is a high-quality artist’s reproduction of the coat of arms of Pope Francis. The insignia borrows much from his former episcopal emblem. On the blue shield is the symbol of the Society of Jesus. Below it is a star and the buds of a spikenard flower, which represent respectively Mary and St. Joseph. The papal motto is the Latin phrase “Miserando atque eligendo,” which means “having mercy, he called him.” The phrase refers to a line in a homily by St. Bede: “Because he saw him through the eyes of mercy and chose him.”

The Pope Speaks

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VATICAN CITY (CNS) -Pope Francis reaffirmed the importance of responding decisively to the problem of the sexual abuse of minors by members of the clergy and called on the Vatican office dealing with suspected cases to continue carrying out its mandate.

During an April 5 meeting with Archbishop Gerhard L. Muller, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the pope discussed the office’s various responsibilities.

However, he made a particular point of highlighting its work to counter clerical sexual abuse, telling Archbishop Muller he wanted the congregation to continue with the policies of retired Pope Benedict XVI wanted and “to act decisively concerning cases of sexual abuse,” the Vatican said in a written statement released after the meeting.

The pope, the statement said, asked the congregation to continue: “promoting measures that protect minors, above all; help for those who have suffered such violence in the past; necessary procedures against those found guilty; (and) the commitment of bishops’ conferences in formulating and implementing the necessary directives in this is area that is so important for the church’s witness and credibility.”

The pope also assured victims that they had a special place in his heart and prayers.

Pope Francis was holding

private meetings in early April with the individual heads of various Vatican offices and congregations.

According to the Vatican schedule, the pope had at least an hour slotted for the 11 a.m. meeting with Archbishop Muller.

As archbishop of Buenos Aires, the future pope had said his archdiocese had been very attentive to the problem and “rigorous” in its screening and selection of candidates for the priesthood and religious life.

Sex abusers suffer from a “perversion of a psychological kind” that is not caused by or directly linked to celibacy, he said in a book-length series of interviews.

“If a priest is a pedophile, he is so because he brought that perversion with him from before his ordination,” and not even priestly celibacy would be able to “cure it,” the future pope said in the book, “Pope Francis: Conversations with Jorge Bergoglio” by Sergio Rubin and Francesca Ambrogetti.

Because such a perversion already would be present in a candidate, he said, “it’s necessary to pay lots of attention to the choice of candidates to the priesthood.”

He said the archdiocese of Buenos Aires had been very “rigorous for many years already,” noting how only about 40 percent of candidates were actually admitted into the priesthood.

He also described how candidates undergo in-depth psychiatric

tests to look for different forms of deviant tendencies, including “megalomaniacal, dishonest and criminal” tendencies.

In “On Heaven and Earth,” a 2010 book of conversations with a Buenos Aires rabbi, the thenCardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio said, when it is discovered that a priest has engaged in such behavior, it is imperative that no one “look the other way.”

“One cannot be in a position of power and destroy the life of another person,” he said.

The proper action to take against an abuser, he said, would be to prohibit him from exercising his ministry and begin a canonical process in the diocese.

“I don’t believe in those positions that propose supporting a kind of ‘corporate’ spirit in order to avoid damaging the image of the institution,” he told the rabbi, Abraham Skorka.

The future Pope Francis said moving an abusive priest to another parish in an effort to protect the image of the church had appeared as a “solution” at times in the United States, but that it was “foolishness” because the abusive priest only takes his problem with him to a new parish.

He said he admired “the courage and honesty of Benedict XVI” in confronting the problem, calling for “zero tolerance” and enacting stricter measures to protect children and to punish abusers.

Pope asks doctrinal office to act ‘decisively’ against sex abuse Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

Question Corner Father Kenneth Doyle

A question about the validity of Anglican orders

Q

Q. My wife is a serious Christian and a faithful churchgoer. She is a member of a reverent and active congregation. Her pastor is a man who gave up a lucrative profession to become a priest.

My wife receives the Eucharist every Sunday, and she believes fervently in the real presence.

As I understand my own Catholic Church’s teaching, the Eucharist my wife receives is invalid because she is an Episcopalian and her priest’s ordination is invalid. I have a hard time not believing that Christ is present in the bread and wine consecrated by an Episcopal priest. Jesus is supposed to be present when people gather in his name. Doesn’t that apply to my wife’s church service?

(Lynchburg, Va.)

A

A. As is commonly known, the Catholic Church recognizes the validity of the sacrament of baptism when it is administered according to many non-Catholic rites -- including the Orthodox Church and all the main-line Protestant communities.

When someone from one of those traditions decides to enter the Catholic Church, no “rebaptism” is needed. All that

is required is a simple profession of faith and acceptance into the Catholic Church.

With the Eucharist, though, it is a different matter. The sacrament of the Eucharist can be confected only by a priest, and so the validity of the Eucharist depends on the validity of that particular priest’s ordination. And here, as you point out, is where the problem occurs.

The position of the Catholic Church is that ordination to the priesthood, according to the Anglican ritual is invalid. (The Episcopal Church is the American branch of the worldwide Anglican Communion.) The history of this position is long and involved, but I will summarize it.

In the late 1800s Pope Leo XIII established a commission to study the question. It concluded that in the 16th century when King Henry VIII broke with Rome, the bishops who first joined him had been Roman Catholic bishops and had clearly been ordained validly.

But under the reign of Henry’s son, King Edward VI, the makeup of the Anglican ordination ritual took a decidedly Protestant swing.

The intent of the ritual was no longer to confer the sacrament of holy orders as the Catholic Church had viewed it stemming from the time of the apostles. The papal decree “Apostolicae Curae” in 1896 confirmed that position.

In the late 20th century, under the impetus of the ecumenical energy generated by the Second Vatican Council, scholars began to revisit the issue with the encouragement of Pope John Paul II. But after considerable research, no reason could be uncovered for reversing the findings of Leo XIII’s time.

In a papal document in 1998 (together with a companion elucidation by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith), the issue was laid to rest, and the invalidity of Anglican orders was held by the Catholic Church to be a settled matter.

(As a corollary to that theological position, today when Anglican clergy wish to become Roman Catholic priests, they are ordained once more in a new ceremony.)

It is important to note that this position on the validity of orders is intended in no way to question

the sincerity of Anglicans. God can minister his grace in all sorts of ways and through many channels.

I have no doubt that the Lord is touching your wife’s life though her participation in the Episcopal liturgy. My inclination would be not to trouble her with deep theological distinctions.

2013 Catholic News Service

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CNS PHOTO/JOHN MCELROY

Anglican Archbishop Michael Jackson and Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin, Ireland, lead an ecumenical Good Friday procession in Dublin from Christ Church Cathedral to the ProCathedral where a prayer service was held in 2012.

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

‘He can’t take it with him!’

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“Greed, for lack of a better word is good.” So said the character Gordon Gekko, the villain of the Movies Wall Street and Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps. Compare that statement with the one Jesus makes in Luke 12:15 “Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.” And do you remember Deuteronomy 5:21, “You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife. You shall not desire your neighbor’s house or field, nor his male or female slave, nor his ox or ass, nor anything that belongs to him.” The Biblical perspective on materialism differs sharply from the growing acceptance of covetousness in our society.

Luke’s Gospel, from which we are primarily reading during this liturgical cycle, is more concerned with the dangers and proper uses of material possessions than any other New Testament work.

Perhaps this is because there may have been a number of people of means in Luke’s predominantly Gentile community.

Luke’s Jesus directly warns his audiences about material greed.

Jesus beatifies the materially poor (not the spiritually poor, as in Matthew 5:3) and hungry (6:20-21) and pronounces a woe upon the rich and those who are filled (6:24-26).

This warning is reinforced by two uniquely Lucan parables (12:16-21; 16:19-31). In fact, the main characters in the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

(16:19-31) provide narrative examples of those beatitudes and woes. The Rich Man is obviously wealthy, and dines sumptuously every day (16:19); by contrast the poor beggar Lazarus sits starving at his gate. Casual readers of the Gospel often miss the import of Lazarus’ location; he is in a place where the Rich Man cannot miss him, yet he does ignore him. In the depiction of the afterlife for both Lazarus and the Rich Man, the two characters’ fortunes are reversed.

Whereas Lazarus, who in earthly life suffered, is comforted, the Rich Man, who neglected Lazarus’ needs, though he had the means to attend to them, is in torment.

The Rich Man’s consumption with material things desensitizes him to the plight of the suffering, and in God’s Kingdom such behavior is unacceptable.

The danger of materialism is also portrayed in another parable (12:16-21) which flows from the statement in Luke 12:15 about greed, which I cited earlier. A rich man has land which produces a bumper crop. “What shall I do?” he asks himself. This deliberative question points to the fact that the man is confronted with a moral decision. He has to choose, which means that he has to make an act of the will, and such an act will be measured against the standards of God’s Kingdom. His decision is to build larger barns to store for himself his abundant grain and other material possessions as well.

His choice, however, sets him at odds with Leviticus 19:9-10 “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not be so thorough that you reap the field to its very edge, nor shall you glean the stray ears of grain. Likewise, you shall not pick your vineyard bare, nor gather up the grapes that have fallen. These

things you shall leave for the poor and the alien. I, the LORD, am your God.” What are the consequences of his actions? God deems him a fool.

Folly is the opposite of wisdom, two states of being which contain a moral component. The rich man in this parable has acted foolishly because his behavior is immoral.

Note that this morality is nothing new; it is in the age-old teaching of the Torah! Besides his plans are thwarted by the fact that death thwarts his plans. In other words, “He can’t take it with him!”

While there are many more warnings about materialism in Luke, the evangelist also provides positive teaching and examples of the proper use of material goods, especially the abundance of them.

Those who sell their possessions and give alms exchange their material goods for “money bags that do not wear out,” in other words spiritual goods (6:33). This collection of spiritual goods provides one with heavenly treasure.

In his sequel, Acts, Luke depicts Barnabas selling property and giving the proceeds to the community (4:36). Also Lydia, the seemingly wealthy manufacturer and trader of purple goods, opens her apparently large house to Paul so that he may speak to newfound believers in Philippi (16:40). These two characters exemplify the correct use of material blessings.

Godlessness and materialism go hand-in-hand. As people in our society either reject or become increasingly indifferent toward God, they also become more like the rich men in the two parables mentioned above, that is, selfish and unconcerned about others.

Generosity, however, will take us into a deeper relationship with God.

ons

sti n Que o i t c e fl

al or d mor e s o p s od rial go e mate v a you? h r es fo i t ods led n How l u c rial go diffi e t l a a u m t i for ith spir respect osity w r d e n n a e g d has for Go n How er love p e e d a as of you to ose are h t e z i l ore ge others? ingly m to evan s o a e d r e c ing in t can w becom n Wha e r a h c whi society ? alistic materi

Re

Ursula Ledochowska 1865-1939 May 29 Born into a distinguished Polish family in Austria, Julia Maria entered an Ursuline convent in Poland at age 21, taking the name Maria Ursula of Jesus. She taught in a girls’ school for 20 years, and in 1907 went to St. Petersburg to supervise a new school.

Expelled from Russia at the beginning of World War I, she spent the war in Sweden and returned to Poland in 1920. In 1923, she founded the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus, known as Grey Ursulines. As the order expanded, the Vatican asked her to live in Rome, where she died. Grey Ursulines now minister in 12 countries. Ursula was canonized in 2003; her older sister, Blessed Maria Theresa Ledochowska, is also a foundress.

Saints © 2013 Catholic News Service

Eugene de Mazenod 1782-1861 May 21

Crosiers

Eugene and his family fled France during the French Revolution, staying in Italy for 11 years. When he returned and saw the disastrous state of the French church, he felt called to the priesthood and was ordained in 1811. After ministering to the neediest in Aix-en-Provence, in 1816 he founded the Missionary Society of Provence, which later became the Oblate Missionaries of Mary Immaculate. In addition to being the order’s superior general, in 1837 he succeeded his uncle as bishop of Marseilles, where he was a reformer and built new churches for the growing immigrant population. A towering figure in the French church, he was canonized in 1995. Oblates today serve in nearly 70 countries worldwide.

19

Saints © 2013 Catholic News Service

John of Avila 1500-1569 May 10

CNS

Born near Toledo, Spain, John was sent by his wealthy parents to study law in Salamanca. But, renouncing such a career, he instead lived as a hermit for three years, and was ordained in 1525, after his parents had died. Though he hoped to be a missionary in Mexico, his archbishop sent him to Andalusia, where he preached successfully for nine years. He was imprisoned briefly by the Inquisition for rigoristic preaching, then continued evangelizing for the rest of his life. Many of his letters survive. A holy priest and mystic, he was a friend of St. Ignatius Loyola and an adviser of St. Teresa of Avila and several other Spanish saints. He is a patron saint of Spain.

Saints © 2013 Catholic News Service

www.bayoucatholic.com

Bayou Spirit

20

g y t n i r i a t h l C i r o u f Q

The Bayou Gals Quilt Camp was held at the Lumen Christi Retreat Center in Schriever recently. Quilters from the “Cane Cutters” group in Houma and the “Magic Fingers” group from Napoleonville gathered at the retreat center for three days. Those participating bring projects already cut out and assemble them at the camp. They also trade helpful hints and patterns with their fellow quilters. Quilts that are made are donated to charities such as Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center, Children’s Hospital, Chez Hope, The Haven and Macdonell United Methodist Children’s Services.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

Advanced Concussion Technology Available Exclusively at Thibodaux Regional We understand the importance of safety in athletics. We are the only facility in the region to offer state-of-the-art concussion technology. This means a quicker, objective and more conclusive diagnosis of concussion so that in the event of a head injury, safe return to competition can be better determined.

Additionally, Thibodaux Regional offers educational training and seminars for area coaches, athletic trainers and others involved in athletics.

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s n a e B n e e Gr

Heavenly Recipes

f e e B d n u with Gro

Story and Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier This month’s Heavenly Recipe comes from Father Carlos Talavera, pastor of St. Louis Church parish 22 in Bayou Blue. His recipe of green beans with ground beef is a variation of a meal that he was accustomed to eating in the Philippines. “In the Philippines I used to cook this recipe with green peas. Here in South Louisiana fresh green beans are readily available so I use green beans,” says Father Carlos.

Father Carlos is the second of four boys in his family.

“We grew up in the city. While we moved from town to town it was mostly city living for our family. Three of the four boys in my family went to the seminary. I am the only one who became a priest,” says the pastor.

Cooking for himself and others is nothing new to the pastor. “I have been cooking since high school. When I was in the seminary we seminarians would have to cook for ourselves during the summer months.”

He recalls watching his parents cook as a child. “My father would cook at home every day. I would watch him cook and learn what ingredients he used. After a while I began to experiment with his recipes and adjust them to my liking,” he says.

“I usually cook Filipino dishes. I have also learned how to cook a few Cajun dishes such as gumbos and stews. I also enjoy cooking spaghetti,” says Father Carlos.

He says that he loves to make soups. “In the Philippines soup is a very popular dish. We usually make soup with meat or fish, or with vegetables and rice.”

Father Carlos likes to cook for his parishioners.

“From time to time I invite parishioners over for supper. We have a monthly faith formation gathering for parishioners. After the lesson we gather for a meal which I prepare. I usually prepare either spaghetti or Chinese noodles,” says the pastor.

Father Carlos enjoys being a pastor in the Bayou Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

Blue community. The people are friendly and very giving.

“People love to make gardens here. It is not uncommon for me to find a bag of fresh vegetables at my doorstep on any given day. And those who like to fish also share with me what they have caught while on the water,” he says.

With parishioners like that he will be cooking and sharing the bounty from the land and sea with his parishioners for a long time.

Green beans with ground beef 2 lbs fresh green beans snapped and cut in half 1 onion chopped 1 head of garlic chopped 2 lbs lean ground beef 1/3 cup soy sauce Salt and pepper or Creole seasoning to taste 1/3 cup cooking oil Place oil in bottom of large pot. Sauté garlic and onions until tender. Add ground beef and brown.

Add your favorite seasoning, salt and pepper or some type of Creole seasoning. Cover the pot and cook for approximately 10 minutes. Add soy sauce and green beans and cook for approximately 15 minutes until “crunchy tender.” Serve over cooked rice.

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

23

Young Voices My friend Haley inspired and encouraged me to begin reading the lives of the saints. St. Therese of Lisieux especially has taught me about what my Catholic faith truly entails. I chose to read her autobiography this year and learned so much about how to be a Child of God. She helped me understand what it means to possess humility and a child-like spirit. I believe that she is interceding for me from heaven.

Madalyn Beyer, 16 years old St. Anthony of Padua Church parish Vandebilt Catholic High School

I don’t exactly have that “one person” who has influenced me to embrace my faith, but a multitude of influential people. I have this unique group of friends who attend every religious function with me, listen to and guide me, and simply pray for me and my specific needs. I believe that having that support system, that backbone, has made me proud of my Catholic faith and has encouraged me to embrace and peruse it.

Caroline Ayers, 18 years old Christ the Redeemer Church parish E.D. White Catholic High School

24

Who has been the most influential person in your life when it comes to embracing your Catholic faith?

Why? Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

The most influential people in my life are my close friends. If it wouldn’t be for them I wouldn’t know Christ as I do today. They have taught me in so many ways. Getting to see the light of Christ with them just shows how God can work through people. They are to thank for showing me the way and to help me teach other people to grow closer to Christ.

Cody Guidry, 16 years old Sacred Heart Church parish, Cut Off South Lafourche High School

The most influential person in my spiritual life is Roch Gernon. Roch leads the IGNITE group at St. Francis, which I attend weekly. He has taught me so much. He taught me how to really pray, not just recite prayers. For a long time I thought prayer was talking to God, but I forgot the other half of prayer, listening to God. He taught me how to have real conversations with God, which changed my life.

Patrick Watson, 17 years old St. Anthony of Padua Church parish Vandebilt Catholic High School

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n C.E.N.T.S. will be offering the Small Business course beginning in May through Catholic Charities of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. This free course is designed to help people who are interested in starting a small business. It will be held one evening a week for nine weeks.

A different business topic will be discussed each week. Anyone who is interested in participating

JUNE

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, June 4, Quality Hotel, Houma, 10:45-12:45 p.m. Rev. Glenn LeCompte, speaker. n Diocesan Leadership Awards, Tuesday, June 4, Christ the Redeemer, Thibodaux. n Marriage Preparation Day, pre-registered couples,

26

JULY

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, July 2, Quality Hotel, Houma, 10:45-12:45 p.m. Rev. Andre Melancon, speaker. n 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, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Speaker, Rev.

DIOCESAN

MAY

may call Brooks Lirette at (985)876-0490 to schedule an orientation appointment. n Marriage Preparation Day, pre-registered couples, Sunday, May 5, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall. Contact your church parish or call the Office of Family Ministries at (985)8503129 for registration details.

Additional information available

on line at www.htdiocese.org/fm. n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, May 7, Quality Hotel, Houma, 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

Rev. Clyde Mahler, speaker. n aNew Experience, Wednesday, May 15, Maria Immacolata, 7-9 p.m. n Priesthood ordination, Rev. Mr. Simon Peter Eugurait, Saturday, May 25, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma, 10 a.m.

Saturday, June 8, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall. Contact your church parish or call the Office of Family Ministries at (985) 850-3129 for registration details.

Additional information is available on line at www.htdiocese.org/fm. n aNew Experience,

Wednesday, June 12, St. Mary’s Nativity, Raceland, 7-9 p.m. n Steubenville on the Bayou, Friday, June 14 through Sunday, June 16, Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center, Houma. Registration is now open.

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.

www.bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

EVENTS

“I never felt like just a name on a folder. They treat you like family.”

– VALERIE MANNS Cancer Survivor, Houma

When I was told I had breast cancer, I thought, what’s my son going to do without me? I am so thankful I chose Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at TGMC for my cancer treatment. I had surgery and chemotherapy.

Everyone there was with me every step of the way.

marybird.org/TGMC 8166 MAIN STREET, SUITE 101 • HOUMA, LA 70360

Special Events

Rev. Mr. Engurait to be ordained to priesthood Saturday, May 25 The Rev. Mr. Simon Peter Engurait will be ordained to the priesthood Saturday, May 25, at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma at 10 a.m. Bishop Sam G. Jacobs will be the ordaining prelate.

The Rev. Mr. Engurait was born and raised in Ngora, a small town in Uganda, East Africa. He is the 42 year old son of Clement W. Aeko and Crencentia Akareut Aeko and is one of 14 children. His parents had four boys and 10 girls; three of his siblings are deceased. The Rev. Mr. Engurait is the seventh born and has an older brother who is a priest and an older sister who is a nun.

He graduated high school from St. Peters College Tororo in Uganda. He earned a bachelor’s 28 degree in political science and public administration from Makerere University in Uganda and a master’s degree in business administration from the Maastricht School of Management in Holland.

He has been attending Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans since the fall of 2007.

As part of his priestly formation, he served at St. Bernadette Church parish in Houma in 2007, where he ministered to parishioners in their homes, visited nursing homes, worked with youth ministry, the parish census, and assisted the priest during Mass. He was adopted by St. Bernadette parish and considers it his home parish.

In 2009, he served at St. Lucy Church parish in Houma, where he visited and ministered to parishioners in their homes, and assisted the priest during Mass.

He worked with Prison Ministry in 2010, sharing his faith, praying with and counseling inmates.

His last parish assignment was June through October 2012 at St. Genevieve Church parish in Thibodaux, for his diaconate internship.

The Rev. Mr. Engurait graduated Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

Rev. Mr. Simon Peter Engurait

from Notre Dame Seminary May 9 with a master’s of divinity.

“I am looking forward to the honor and privilege of celebrating the Eucharist, the highest form of worship for us as Catholics. To be a priest is to be a bearer of the love and saving presence of God. I hope that I can bring this love around and so make Christ more known and loved wherever I go,” says the

future priest. “I am so grateful to Bishop Sam G. Jacobs for accepting me into this diocese and to all the priests that have been mentors to me during this journey, especially Father Mark Toups, (the late) Msgr. Francis Legendre, Father Patrick O’Brien, Father Dean Danos, Father Charles Perkins and Father Carl Collins.

He is also grateful to the people of this diocese who have welcomed and received him with open hands and hearts, particularly those individuals who have opened their homes to him, supported him and made him feel at home away from home.

Father Engurait will celebrate his first Mass on Sunday, May 26 at 11 a.m. at St. Bernadette Church.

He will also celebrate Masses of Thanksgiving Sunday, June 2 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Genevieve Church, and Sunday, June 9 at St. Lucy at 8:15 a.m. and St. Luke in Thibodaux at 10:45 a.m.

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Did you know?

This mural which is painted over the main altar at Our Lady of

the Most Holy Rosary Church parish in Houma depicts St. Dominic receiving a rosary from the Blessed Virgin Mary.

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

- 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

March 2013 Burse Contributions Donald Peltier, Sr. #4 ...................................... $1,000.00 Msgr. Raphael C. Labit #2 ................................. $120.00 Joseph “Jay” Fertitta .......................................... $100.00 Mr. Eledier Broussard ........................................ $100.00 Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier ............................ $100.00 Msgr. William Koninkx ..................................... $100.00 Rev. Anthony Rousso .......................................... $50.00

Open Burses with Balance as of 3/31/13 Mr. Eledier Broussard ................. $12,600.00 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 .............................. $5,120.00 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 Harry Booker #2 .................................... $4,138.00 Rev. Henry Naquin ................................ $4,050.00 Msgr. William Koninkx ........................... $4,000.00

Rev. Gerard Hayes ................................ $3,936.00 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 Diocesan K of C #2 ............................... $2,894.62 Rev. Peter H. Brewerton ........................ $2,600.00 Mrs. Ayres A. Champagne ..................... $2,000.00 Rev. H. C. Paul Daigle ........................... $1,900.00 Anawin Community ............................... $1,900.00 James J. Buquet, Jr. ............................... $1,650.00 Msgr. Francis J. Legendre #2 ................ $1,645.00 Msgr. Emile J. Fossier ........................... $1,545.00 Dr. William Barlette, Sr........................... $1,525.00 Msgr. Stanislaus Manikowski ................ $1,525.00 Rev. Robert J. Sevigny .......................... $1,500.00 Msgr. John L. Newfield .......................... $1,200.00 Rev. Guy Zeringue ................................ $1,200.00 Msgr. James Songy ............................... $1,075.00 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 Donald Peltier, Sr. #4 .............................. $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 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Naquin .......................... $150.00 Jacob Marcello .......................................... $100.00 Rev. Hubert C. Broussard ........................ $ 50.00 Deacon Eldon Frazier .............................. $ 50.00 Deacon Nick Messina .............................. $ 50.00

Overall Seminarian Burse Totals: $1,373,737.39 www.bayoucatholic.com

29

Our Schools

St. Mary’s Nativity

Located among the sugar cane fields in a diverse, rural community along Bayou Lafourche, St. Mary’s Nativity Elementary School in Raceland began accepting students in 1961.

The Teresian sisters, a Spanish order, were the first religious to staff St. Mary’s school. They were followed by the Sisters of Mercy from Ireland, and then the Sisters of Loreto, another Irish order.

Currently the school has an enrollment of approximately 250 students, three years old through 8th grade and is staffed entirely by lay personnel, reports Marissa Bagala, the school’s principal since 2005.

“Being a small school is a blessing in that it allows for a community feeling among students, parents, staff and 30 grandparents. Everyone knows the students which allows for personal relationships to develop. However, being such a small school we always have to be concerned about the financial burden we are placing on parents and also be cognizant of the sacrifices they make to send their children to a Catholic school,” says Bagala.

The administration, faculty and staff strive to provide the students a family atmosphere with high academic standards and a strong Catholic identity.

“We believe in a team approach in fostering the faith formation of the children by working together as a family with the church parish staff and parish organizations,” Bagala says. The church parish organizations are very supportive of the school. For example, the Knights of Columbus have an annual spaghetti dinner to support the school and the Catholic Daughters help to organize the

Story by Janet Marcel Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

annual Veteran’s Day reception.

Aimee Melancon, who has been employed at St. Mary’s school for four years, worked as the school’s secretary for two years before she began teaching. “Once I began I realized there is no greater feeling than feeling right at home. The Lord has his hand and blessings surrounding St. Mary’s Nativity school. The faculty, students, parents and church parish staff have an unbelievable connectivity through their spirituality.” As a second grade teacher, she says there is no greater joy than preparing a child for the sacraments. “I thank the Lord always for leading me to this most wonderful place.”

The students live their faith by being actively involved in numerous service projects such as visiting Raceland Manor once a month, celebrating Mass with the residents and attending their Mardi Gras parade. They also collect Easter and Christmas items to donate to Chez Hope, Louis Infant Crisis Center, MacDonnell House, Good Samaritan Store, Bunk House and local animal shelters.

Some of the extracurricular activities offered at the school are 4-H, Beta club, band, caritas, choir, quiz bowl, boys and girls basketball, cheerleading, softball, Fast ForWord, the shepherd-sheep program and Come, Lord Jesus!

“Students ask to do Come, Lord Jesus!,” says Bagala. “Because of this program we have seen an increase in their knowledge of the Bible and in their prayer lives.

They have realized that the Bible is basically a map for how to live their lives. And we have seen a decrease in bullying because the Bible has become a part of their lives.”

The school has two foster grandparent volunteers through Catholic Charities Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s Foster Grandparents program. These

St. Mary’s Nativity Elementary School principal Marissa Bagala and Father Mike

grandparents work with three and four year olds and build a bond with the children who may not have a grandparent at home.

The students also participate in “Kelso’s Choices” where the students are rewarded for being caught doing something good. This activity teaches them to make the

School in Raceland

Tran, pastor, read a book to the prekindergarten class.

right choice and helps them make good decisions.

Fifth grade student Dirk Savoie says, “I like attending St. Mary’s school because the teachers make learning fun. They teach me regular subjects but they also teach me about Jesus and his love for us. Through their example I

have learned how to make Jesus the center of my life.”

St. Mary’s school uses mimios, projectors and computers in every classroom. Two years ago the school was fully updated with brand new computers.

They use Edline to communicate assignments and students grades, and also as an emergency notification system. Some teachers are currently using iPads in the classroom; and in an effort to gives its students every advantage possible as they move on to high school, the administration is working to secure funding to purchase more iPads for students and teachers.

Eighth grade student Emily Oldag says, “The academic success we achieve is what I value most from my Catholic education. At St. Mary’s we are challenged to explore further in math and science, to learn more about our history; but most importantly, we can grow closer to God each day.”

Thea Arnold, who has been teaching 6th, 7th and 8th grade mathematics and language for three years at St. Mary’s school, currently has three children at the school. “I am able to see, first hand, the rigorous academics, discipline and strong Catholic morals being taught and instilled into my children. I felt that God was calling me to be a part of St. Mary’s, not only as a mom, but as a teacher. I am thankful to God every day for being able to teach at such a wonderful place.

Being able to celebrate Mass as a school family, and practice my

faith means everything to me. It is awesome to see how caring the children are to each other and how they don’t hesitate to offer their service in any way. St. Mary’s is truly a blessing in my life.”

Parents, grandparents and great grandparents volunteer on an ongoing basis to make St. Mary’s school a warm and caring place for the children, says the principal. “The support that we get from them on a daily basis is exceptional. They support the school in every way.” Some of their efforts include school maintenance, fundraising, assisting teachers and staff, and supporting the school financially and through prayer.

“We also have exceptional teachers who are always working toward improving themselves 31 professionally and strengthening their faith. All of the teachers here at St. Mary’s love their jobs and love coming to work. The faculty and staff see their jobs as a calling.

Even after retirement many of them come back to volunteer, sometimes on a full-time basis,” says Bagala.

Amy Matherne, who has been teaching kindergarten for two years at St. Mary’s, says “Being a retired teacher of 25 years and working in the public sector, I felt God’s call to continue to work with his children. My daughters both attended St. Mary’s Nativity and this school is dear to my heart. I have a connection to the school and I’m a parishioner here. St. Mary’s Nativity provides a safe, excellent academic foundation,

a

‘I thank the Lord always for leading me to this wonderful place’ www.bayoucatholic.com

St. Mary’s Nativity School is faith filled, and has a genuine family environment. The children, staff and teachers have a bond and a true love for each other and their faith. I feel blessed to be part of such an amazing school and to continue to shape and touch the lives of God’s little people.”

Bagala says the school is very fortunate to have a pastor who is so readily available to the students and parents at any time, and who takes such an active role in the school.

Third grade student Bo Bordelon says, “I like going to St. Mary’s school because I get a Catholic education. I like to go to church 32 and learn about my Catholic faith.

Our priest, Father Mike, explains the Gospel in a way that kids would understand. We also have nice and thoughtful teachers, and a great playground.”

Bagala says one of her goals for the future of the school is to continue to offer an outstanding Catholic education with a strong academic component for the students at St. Mary’s. The faculty is currently being trained on the implementation of the Common Core State Standards with a strong emphasis on continuing to build Catholic identity, while strengthening students’ critical thinking skills so that they are able to continue to excel in the future.

The principal also plans to keep up its SACS accreditation and increase student achievement by offering a challenging moral Catholic curriculum that allows students to meet the challenges they will face as they enter high school and go on to their careers.

“We have great students here at St. Mary’s Nativity school, and the world is theirs to conquer,” says Bagala.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

Third grade student Bo Bordelon, at left

Amy Matherne, kindergarten teacher

Eighth grader Emily Oldag

Fifth grade student Dirk Savoie

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Special Events

Father Glenn LeCompte, June 4 speaker for Food for the Journey 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 June 4 is Houma native Father Glenn D. LeCompte.

Father LeCompte attended Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans and Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. He was ordained to the priesthood May 24, 1986.

He currently serves the diocese as spiritual director of the Lumen Christi Retreat Center in Schriever,

34

Rev. Glenn D. LeCompte

diocesan director of the Offices of Worship, Continuing Education of the Clergy and Ecumenism, and as diocesan Master of Ceremonies.

He has served as associate pastor of St. Bernadette Church parish in Houma, the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales parish in Houma, St. Joseph Co-Cathedral parish in Thibodaux, St. Hilary of Poitiers Church parish in Mathews, Holy Cross Church parish in Morgan City, as sacramental priest at St. Lucy Church parish in Houma and St. Luke the Evangelist Church parish in Thibodaux, and as pastor of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish in Chackbay.

Father LeCompte has also served on the Priests Council, and as a teacher at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans.

Those who plan to attend the June 4th event should RSVP with their name, phone number and church parish by Thursday, May 30. To RSVP, email FoodForTheJourney@ htdiocese.org or call (985) 8503178.

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

Cost is $13 and includes meal, drink and tip. Only cash or checks will be accepted.

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

Because love is always in style.

Nominations sought for Inspirational Teachers of the Year The Catholic Schools Office is seeking to honor the most inspirational Catholic school teachers of the year for 2013.

Guidelines and nomination forms are available on the Catholic Schools Office webpage at www. htdiocese.org/cso, on individual schools’ websites, and on schools’ Edline websites. Hard copies of the forms are also available in the diocesan Catholic Schools Office and in every school office.

Nominations will be accepted through May 15; no nomination forms will be considered after this date. Please remember those teachers who have been an inspiration by nominating them for this honor.

The Wishing Well, Inc. 609 Legion Ave., Houma 851-1110 Monday - Friday 10:30 am - 5:00 pm Saturday 10:30 am - 3:00 pm

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

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~ 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

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

Pope Francis

My

Favorite

Things

36

By CAROL GLATZ VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Here are a few of Pope Francis’ favorite things, which he revealed in a series of interviews granted while he was archbishop of Buenos Aires.

The interviews are in the book, “Pope Francis: Conversations with Jorge Bergoglio” by Sergio Rubin and Francesca Ambrogetti, which was originally published in 2010 under the title “El Jesuita” (“The Jesuit”). It is not yet available in English.

V Favorite sports: When he was young, the future pope played basketball, but he loved going to the stadium to watch soccer with his whole family to see their favorite team, San Lorenzo. He lamented that the fan scene is not what it used to be. At the worst, “people would yell at the referee that he was a bum, a scoundrel, a sellout ... nothing in comparison to the epithets they use today,” he said.

V Favorite city: “I love where I live. I love Buenos Aires.” He has traveled in Latin America and parts of Europe, including Ireland “to improve my English.”

However, he said, “I always try to avoid traveling ... because I’m a homebody” and got homesick easily.

V Favorite way to stay informed: Newspapers. He said Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

he turned on the radio only to listen to classical music. He had thought he’d probably start using the Internet like his predecessor, the late-Cardinal Juan Carlos Aramburu of Buenos Aires, did -“when he retired at 75.”

V Favorite mode of transport as cardinal archbishop of Buenos Aires: The s u b w a y , which he would always take to get a r o u n d “because it’s fast; but if I can, I prefer the bus because that way I can look outside.”

V Favorite pastime: As a boy, he liked to collect stamps. Today, “I really like reading and listening to music.”

V Favorite authors and books: “I adore poetry by (Friedrich) Holderlin,” a 19th-century lyric poet; Alessandro Manzoni’s “The Betrothed” (“I Promessi Sposi”), which he said he has read at least four times; Dante Alighieri’s “The Divine Comedy”; and anything by Fyodor Dostoevsky and Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges.

The pope recalled that even though Borges was an agnostic, “he’d recite the ‘Our Father’ every evening because he had promised his mother he would, and died with a sense of ‘religious comfort.’”

V Favorite music: “Leonore” Overture No. 3 by Ludwig van Beethoven conducted by the lateWilhelm Furtwangler, “who, in my opinion, is the best conductor of some of (Beethoven’s) symphonies and works by Wagner.”

V Favorite dance style: tango, which he said he loves “very much.

It’s something that comes from within.”

He said he danced the tango when he was young “even though I preferred the milonga,” which is an older form of tango with a faster rhythm.

V Favorite movie: “Babette’s Feast” because it shows the transformation of a group of people who took denial too far and didn’t know what happiness was, he said. The sumptuous meal helps free them from their fear of love, he said. He also likes Italian neorealism films, which often confronted the social, economic and moral consequence of World War II, but added that as archbishop he didn’t have much time to go to the movies.

V Favorite painting: “The White Crucifixion” by Marc Chagall. The scene “isn’t cruel, rather it’s full of hope. It shows pain full of serenity. I think it’s

a

one of the most beautiful things Chagall ever painted.”

V Favorite person: His grandmother Rosa, who helped raise him when he was little, taught him his first words of Italian and passed on her deep religious sensibility.

V Favorite saint he turns to in time of need: St. Therese of Lisieux. He kept a photo of her on his library shelf with a vase of white roses in front of it. “When I have a problem I ask the saint, not to solve it, but to

take it in her hands and help me accept it.”

V Favorite virtue: “The virtue of love, to make room for others with a gentle approach. Meekness entices me enormously! I always ask God to grant me a meek heart,” he said.

V Worst vice to avoid: “The sin that repulses me most is pride” and thinking of oneself as a big shot. He said when it has happened to him, “I have felt great embarrassment and I ask God for forgiveness because nobody has the right to behave like this.”

V Typical reaction to unexpected announcements: He freezes. When Pope Francis was elected pope and appeared at the central balcony, many noticed he looked rather stiff.

Turns out that’s how he reacted when he was named auxiliary bishop in 1992 and how he reacts “to anything unexpected, good or bad, it’s like

I’m paralyzed,” he said.

V Things he would rescue in event of a fire: His breviary and appointment book, which also contains all of his contacts, addresses and telephone numbers.

“It would be a real disaster to lose them.”

“I’m very attached to my breviary; it’s the first thing I open in the morning and the last thing I close when I go to sleep.”

He also keeps tucked safe between its pages his grandmother’s letters and her last words to her grandkids before she died. She said that in times of sadness, trouble or loss, to look to the tabernacle, “where the greatest and noblest martyr is kept,” and to Mary at the foot of the cross so that they may “let fall a drop of salve on the deepest and most painful wounds.”

37

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Guadalupan Missionaries leaving diocese in June

Tricia Thibodaux

38

Tricia Thibodaux new principal at Holy Savior in Lockport Tricia Thibodaux has been named as the new principal for Holy Savior Catholic Elementary School in Lockport for the 2013-2014 school year, Marian B. Fertitta, diocesan superintendent of Catholic schools, announced recently.

Thibodaux is a graduate of H.L. Bourgeois High School in Gray, LA. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s of education degree in educational leadership from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux.

She has been a classroom teacher at Holy Savior School for the past 20 years. She is married to Darrell Thibodaux and they have two children, Mason, 16, and Caleb, 11.

“Tricia has been an exceptional Catholic school teacher at Holy Savior school for 20 years. Her dedication to the school and her deep knowledge of curriculum and effective classroom strategies will make her an excellent educational leader. I am sure she will be an asset to the entire school,” says Fertitta.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

The Guadalupan Missionary Sisters of the Holy Spirit, who have been serving the Hispanic Community of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for the past six years, will be leaving the diocese at the end of June.

The diocese is currently being served by Sisters Edith Lugo, Margarita Ocaña and Isabel Escamilla. Other Sisters who have served here include Magdalena Carillo, Martha Elena Perez, Octavia Ocaña (who died in a tragic automobile accident in Houma as she was returning from ministry in Amelia).

“Even though we are sad that the Guadalupan Missionary Sisters will be leaving our diocese, we understand the decision of the community to pull back and consolidate their services,” says Bishop Sam G. Jacobs. “We are grateful to the many Sisters who have served our Hispanics so well

in the past six years. They have ministered to the community in ways that are reflective of our Holy Father, Pope Francis’ ministry of humility, simplicity and love.”

Sister Edith says, “To the priests, with whom we have collaborated, and to all that parishioners in the five Hispanic Centers we express are gratefulness for giving us the opportunity to serve them in St. Andrew, Amelia; Sacred Heart in Cut Off; Annunziata in Houma; Sacred Heart in Morgan City; and Christ the Redeemer in Thibodaux.

We hope that God will allow the growth of the good things that have been planted in the community. We will be at your service until the end of June.”

The diocese is now in the process of seeking other Spanish-speaking religious communities that may be interested in serving the Hispanic Community here.

Sister Miriam Mitchell, S.H.Sp.

Jennifer Gaudet

Sister Miriam Mitchell, S.H.Sp., who served the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for many years, including as diocesan director of Catholic Charities and as diocesan Chancellor, will be celebrating her golden jubilee as a Sister of the Holy Spirit and Mary Immaculate on Friday, June 7, at 4 p.m., during a Mass at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in San Antonio, TX. She is now the superior general of her community. Those wishing to congratulate Sister Miriam may write to her at 300 Yucca Street, San Antonio, TX 78203-2318.

Jennifer Gaudet, associate director of Individual and Family Assistance for Catholic Charities Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, has been named the Houma-Thibodaux Region Louisiana Public Citizen of the Year. The award was given recently in conjunction with Social Worker Month.

39

www.bayoucatholic.com

Entertainment

A story of salvation Seeing Clairely Claire Joller

W 40

When I was asked to review the movie Les Miserables, now out on DVD, I thought I would be focusing on the performances more than anything else.

After all, blockbuster stars Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, and much-awarded Anne Hathaway headline a cast of hundreds in the theatrical movie that was called “a sprawling epic,” and termed by some as the most ambitious musical ever made.

The movie lives up to its description. It is on a large scale.

It boasts sets that are grand in both the squalid and the sacred.

Its music, long familiar to me from the one stage performance of Les Mis I saw years ago, from CDs, and from commemorative performances on PBS, is haunting. It is even supersized in its running time of about two and a half hours.

All that said, I was surprised to find, when I watched the movie at home, that I was not focusing on the self-conscious bigness that the hype for the movie conveyed.

Instead, I was captivated, once again, by Victor Hugo’s story and characters that had been lifted from his 1862 novel and made to breathe—and sing—on stage by composer Claude-Michel Schonberg and lyricists Herbert Kretzmer, Alain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel.

The story was necessarily tweaked for the movie. It is set in the period after the French Revolution when a king is again on the throne. Protagonist Jean Valjean has been a victim of the French penal system for nearly 20 years for stealing bread to feed his sister’s starving child. Finally released but embittered, Valjean encounters unexpected kindness from a Catholic bishop who makes him a gift of not only all his house’s silver when Valjean is

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

caught with it by the authorities, but also the gift of hope through the bishop’s blessing. Stunned by the fact that he “told me that I had a soul,” Valjean sets out to change his life. He tears up his probation papers and takes on a new identity.

Eight years later, he is the mayor of a small village and runs a factory to benefit the community. But he is hunted by Inspector Javert from his prison days for “violating probation,” and although trying to protect himself, he imperils his safety to take guardianship of Cosette, the child of factory worker Fantine who has had to

to Marius or Cosette. After Marius recuperates, Valjean tells them he is going away.

On Cosette’s wedding day, she and Marius discover Valjean is still nearby, and encounter him in weakened condition. As he dies, he leaves Cosette his secrets while he envisions her mother and the kindly bishop telling him “To love another person is to see the face of God.” Evil, good, justice, injustice, atonement, repentance, forgiveness and salvation are the broad concepts that Hugo and movie director Tom Hooper take on with no jaundiced CNS photo/Universal Studios

Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway star in a scene from “Les Miserables,” the big-screen adaptation of the long-running stage show. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III -- adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. John Mulderig of Catholic News Service’s Media Review Office ranked the film as one of the top 10 family films for 2012.

turn to prostitution and has died.

With Javert in pursuit, Valjean and Cosette find refuge in a Parish convent.

Ten more years pass, and unrest is in the city streets as revolution roils again. Javert has been promoted to a position in Paris, and retains his uncompromising adage of “Those who fall must pay the price.”

Young revolutionary Marius and Cosette fall in love, but Valjean tries to protect her from the city’s turmoil. He has an encounter with Javert, forgives him and releases him from revolutionary captors.

This so undermines Javert’s sense of order “as of the stars,” he commits suicide, with the words “I am the law and the law is not mocked.”

Marius and other young men make a stand at a street barricade against French soldiers, where Valjean saves him from death, unknown

eye. The story engrossed me more than did the performances, with few exceptions.

Hugh Jackman satisfies as Valjean, but Russell Crowe doesn’t have the musical heft that has been characteristic of Javert stage performances. Anne Hathaway as Fantine is deserving of the many awards she received for her acting and singing performance. Amanda Seyfreid is picture-perfect as Cosette.

Far and away, though, Eddie Redmayne as Marius compels attention. The young Englishman’s effortless voice and his graced performance are as memorable to me as is Victor Hugo’s sweeping story.

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

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Pope’s election: New focus on Jesuits

By THERESA LAURENCE Catholic News Service

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (CNS) -- The election of Pope Francis, the first member of the Society of Jesus to rise to the papacy, “has been one long infomercial” for the order, said Jesuit Father Brian Paulson, rector of the Jesuit community at Loyola University Chicago.

Not in a bad sense though.

Members of the order hope that “the good example and holiness of Pope Francis will inspire young men to consider the Society of Jesus as a way to serve Christ and his church,” Father Paulson said.

Certainly, the election of Pope Francis will bring new attention to the order and the work its members carry out as missionaries around the world as well as in education and on behalf of social justice.

Members of the order admitted that stereotypes abound about the society, but that critics often fail to consider the broad scale of work carried out by the world’s largest order of religious men.

“Anybody who thinks they 42 can label the Jesuits are fooling themselves,” said Jesuit Father Richard Salmi, president of Spring Hill College in Mobile, Ala. “That’s the joy of being a Jesuit, you don’t have to be one little thing.”

Widely known as missionaries and social justice advocates who are highly educated and rigorous educators, Jesuits also serve as attorneys, researchers, astronomers and now pope.

“The Jesuits were founded to be less cloistered, more out in the world,” Jesuit Father Mark Lewis, superior of the order’s New Orleans province, told the Tennessee Register, newspaper of the Nashville Diocese. “Our religious life is lived in the midst of activity.”

Jesuits may lead busy lives, but they take a break once a year for a silent eight-day retreat. They also make two or more silent 30-day retreats during their life.

Jesuits usually live in community with other members, but they stand ready to go anywhere on mission.

In addition to the traditional religious vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, Jesuits take a fourth vow of obedience to the pope, to serve wherever he desires they serve. While such papal requests Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

the

Jesuits

St. Ignatius of Loyola, with a small group of scholars, founded the Society of Jesus in Paris in 1534. The order was approved in 1540 by Pope Paul III. There were 1,000 Jesuits at the time of Ignatius’ death in 1556.

Members worldwide .......17,600 Educational institutions....3,700 Works Education, scholarship, spirituality, parish ministry, social justice and mission.

Motto “To the greater glory of God,” in Latin, “Ad majorem Dei gloriam,” often expressed as AMDG.

spirituality Grounded in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, which have an inward component of growing one’s own relationship to God and an outward component of service to others and the world. pope Francis Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio became the first Jesuit pontiff March 13, 2013.

2013 Catholic News Service

do not come often, “the church does ask us to go to the frontiers, geographically, spiritually and intellectually,” Father Paulson said.

Latin America is one such place.

Jesuits have established deep roots throughout Latin America, placing them as intimate witnesses to the region’s complicated history.

The Jesuits’ initial foray into Latin America came after St. Ignatius of Loyola founded the order in the 16th century. A second push began in the mid-20th century to minister to people who were suffering under strong-arm dictatorships.

“The Jesuits were sent to make sure the faith stayed strong,” Father Lewis said.

Their renewed presence in the mid-20th century paralleled the birth of the liberation theology movement, which interprets the teachings of Christ in relation to liberation from unjust social, economic and political conditions.

Many Jesuits working in Latin America in more recent times acted alongside the people they were serving against military and government oppression.

“Pope John Paul II was very keen that we be involved in theology, not politics, but in Latin America that can be very difficult to distinguish,” Father Lewis said.

When popes criticize the liberation theology movement, they are “not rejecting the care for the poor,” Father Lewis explained, but rather they are warning against the movement skewing too Marxist or becoming violent.

“If it moves in that direction, it would start to lose its scriptural basis,” he said.

The Jesuits also are known for overseeing a worldwide network of educational institutions. Today’s schools are a far cry from the way Jesuit missionaries dealt with nonChristians in 16th-century Latin America.

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

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

V Videos from Food for the Journey programs available

2013 Annual Bishop’s Appeal

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V Conference registrations available

Latest Videos

V Online links to Catholic News Service and Vatican YouTube for national and international news

Spiritual resources Online contributions (ABA, Disaster Relief) Updated parish information with times for Mass and other liturgical services and parish personnel

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For a monthly inspirational message from Bishop Jacobs E-mailed directly to you, sign up below.

w w w. h t d i o c e s e . o r g www.bayoucatholic.com

Our Churches

S Story by Janet Marcel Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

St. Bridget Church parish in Schriever, located at the corner of Highway 24 and Highway 311, was established December 16, 1911, with France native Father John M. Evano as its first pastor. The parish was initially named after St. Bridget Plantation which was named for Bridget Emelie Belanger Thibodaux, wife of Gov. Henry Schuyler Thibodaux, founder of Terrebonne Parish and the City of Thibodaux.

Over the years, however, statues and paintings of St. Bridget of Sweden and St. Bridget of Ireland have been incorporated in the church’s décor, both having been embraced by parishioners as their patron.

The current church, built in a “country gothic”

St. Bridget

architectural style, was dedicated Sept. 8, 1955.

Parishioners had begun dreaming about and planning for a new modern, more substantial church to replace the existing small wooden structure in 1945; but because of extensive building restrictions imposed during World War II, they had to wait 10 years for their dream to become a reality. Their original request was for a gothic cathedral, but architect Fernand T. Picou, who designed many churches in the diocese, gave them an appropriate variation of their request which was more suitable for the location of the parish.

Over the years many renovations, improvements and additions were made to the church building including the addition of stained glass windows,

automated bells, a nursery, a new sound system, upholstering of the pews and kneelers, mausoleums, the Community Life Annex building, and a small free-standing chapel which is currently being used for perpetual adoration.

Father Domingo Cruz, a native of the Philippines and pastor of the parish since July 2005, says St. Bridget currently has approximately 900 families with a mixture of mostly older parishioners, and those in their early 30s to early 50s.

“Because the church is located right on the highway, people can just drop by for Mass from ‘out of nowhere,’ which makes the parish unique. Almost every weekend, there are people I don’t recognize as being parishioners attending Mass. The parish

a

46

Staff is definitely more accessible to all kinds of people because of its location,” says the pastor.

Some of the organizations and ministries in the parish include a pastoral council, finance council, CCD program, acolytes, lectors, commentators, ushers, music ministry, children’s Liturgy of the Word, RCIA, Knights of Columbus, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Matthew 25, a youth group that is actively involved in many diocesan events, cub scouts, St. Vincent de Paul Society, bereavement committee, homebound ministry, environment committee, rosary group, First Friday, and an annual St. Joseph Altar.

Father Cruz says the parish has a commitment to helping the poor in many ways such as food drives for Food for the Poor and the local food banks, collections for visiting missionaries, the poor box, participation in the Salvation Army’s giving tree program at Christmas, etc.

Another example of the parish’s commitment to helping the poor was the formation of Haiti Mission Inc. in 1999 by members of St. Bridget Church parish.

Since then, the organization has grown to include volunteers of many faiths and churches throughout Louisiana, the United States and Haiti. St. Bridget has an annual rummage sale to benefit the Haiti Mission, special collections that help to fund different Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

Members of the St. Bridget parish staff include from left, Peter Babin, groundskeeper; Joe Richterberg, maintenance; Deacon Lloyd Duplantis, Father Domingo Cruz, pastor; Jeanette Schexnayder, secretary; Marlene Richard, office volunteer; and Nina Richard, office volunteer. Not pictured is Bernadette Mabile, religious education coordinator.

projects by the group, and many parishioners have traveled on a mission to Haiti on more than one occasion.

The pastoral council has recently invited two teenagers to become members, which Father Cruz believes is a first for the parish. The pastor says he hopes that having youth on the council will bring more energy, new ideas and a fresh perspective to the church parish.

Father Cruz says that for the most part, the execution of the immediate needs of the parish is currently being done by the administration on a dayto-day basis.

One of the dreams Father Cruz has for his parish would be “like the dream of the Father God: that all of us will be one. The goals and objectives of the parish are its guiding awareness for parishioners. They tell us what needs to be done and in what direction the parish should be going. My wish is for the parish to be more alive and active, and the people more active.”

47

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Year of Faith

Guest Columnist

A

Father Eric Leyble

At the end of this month, I will reach a full year of my life as a priest. As one friend jokingly said, my days of being able to bless people with a partial indulgence attached to it is almost over.

While that is true, I believe that

Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests completing my first priestly year is more than just giving blessings.

It was truly a year to grow in learning, to ‘sit at the feet’ of the more experienced shepherds of this diocese, to be humbled by the spiritual needs and hunger of

48

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

the flock I encounter and to learn the more important things that four years in the seminary cannot comprehensively provide. All this while at the same time trying to curb the fires of idealism burning within my heart, dictated by the youthfulness of this new life I’ve entered in.

Also at the end of this month, as I will watch a brother lay down his life on the marble floor of the cathedral before the Lord, being radically configured to the life of Jesus Christ himself, I will have my chance to relive my own “death” and “resurrection” on those same marble floors.

With these two events coming up, I am always drawn to reflect upon God’s hands working in my life through these. I always find myself being invited to reflect upon how my priesthood truly was this last year. One of the things that my bishop asked me to do as I was in formation in the seminary was to develop my vision of my priesthood.

While I was fired up to do that a year or two ago, I believe that this vision needs to be revisited, this time tempered by holy church’s vision of what the ordained priest’s life is all about. After all, my priesthood is not for me; it is for the church.

And so with this in mind, I look to a very important document that came up at the Second Vatican Council that specifically looked into the life and ministry of a priest.

Coming on the heels of the Decree on Priestly Training (Optatam Totius), which was published Oct. 28, 1965, the Fathers of Vatican II followed it through with their second document on priesthood, which became known as the Decree on the Ministry and Life of

a

Priests (Presbyterorum Ordinis). His Holiness, Paul VI, promulgated this document on Dec. 7, 1965.

While Optatam Totius looked into setting basic principles to guide the establishment of more specific programs for priestly formation, Presbyterorum Ordinis was written with the aim of giving more effective support to the priestly ministry and to give better provision for the priest’s life which is often subject to changing circumstances in both the pastoral and human scenes.

The decree began with the statement: “Priests by sacred ordination and mission which they receive from the bishops are promoted to the service of Christ the Teacher, Priest and King. They share in his ministry, a ministry whereby the church here on earth is unceasingly built up into the People of God, the Body of Christ and the Temple of the Holy Spirit.

Therefore, in order that their ministry be carried on more effectively and their lives be better provided for, in pastoral and human circumstances which very often change so profoundly” (PO 1). This sets the tone for the entire document which is divided into three equally important chapters: The Priesthood in the Ministry of the Church, The Ministry of the Priests and The Life of Priests.

The first chapter covers “The Priesthood in the Ministry of the Church,” and it explains that priests have been given a share in Christ’s ministry, through their ordination by a bishop, to offer sacrifice and forgive sins, and “since it is connected with the episcopal order, also, in its own degree, shares the authority by which Christ builds up, sanctifies and rules his Body” (PO 2).

Indeed the ministry of the priest is directed toward this goal and is perfected in it. Properly understood, then, the purpose of priestly ministry and life “is to procure the glory of God the Father in Christ” and “that glory consist in this – that men working keenly and with a grateful spirit receive the work of God made perfect in Christ and then manifest it in their whole lives.”

The second major chapter covers “The Ministry of Priests.” In Section 1, the Council enumerates and explains priests’ functions as follows: (1) The primary duty of proclaiming the Gospel (PO 4); (2) Performing sacred functions (PO 5); such as acting as ministers of Christ especially in the celebration of Mass and all other sacramental and apostolic work; and (3) Gathering the family of God together, by which the priest is to help in the building up of the church (PO 6).

The second section covers “Priests’ Relationships with Others.” Priests are considered as the necessary helpers to bishops. Priests are called to respect their bishops: “the authority of Christ, the Supreme Shepherd” (PO 7). Priests are united with each other in an intimate sacramental brotherhood (PO 8). With respect to the laity, the priest stands in the role of “father and teacher.” They are to “acknowledge and promote the dignity of the laity” and “to lead them to a unity of charity … [and must be] defenders of the common good” (PO 9). The third section, “The Distribution of Priests, and Vocations to the Priesthood,” emphasizes

that priests are ordained “for the widest possible and universal mission of salvation” (PO 10).

After these, the decree turns to the life of priests in chapter 3, which is composed of three sections.

The first section, “The Vocation of Priests to the Life of Perfection,” discusses the special grace of the priesthood, the need for priests to “mortify the works of the flesh and give themselves entirely to the service of men” and the need for priests to strive for holiness (PO 12). An interesting thing in this section is that it includes some details about priests getting ‘burn out’ which can only be remedied through fidelity to God’s will (PO 14).

The second section touches on “Special Spiritual Requirements in the Life of a Priest.” The first requirement is obedience, obtained through imitating Christ “who emptied himself … to be a servant” (PO 15). The second requirement is celibacy (PO 16) and the last one is detachment from temporal goods (PO 17).

The third section considers “Aids to the Life of Priests” which include the Eucharist and other sacraments, especially penance; spiritual reading, devotion to Mary and true adoration (PO 18). Ongoing study (PO 19) and social assistance funds and health insurance programs are also necessary aids (PO 20/21).

The decree concluded with a reminder to priests that a common problem today is that the priest can become a stranger in this world, having new obstacles that 49 can lead to loneliness and depression (PO 22). Thus, they are reminded that even in the midst of difficulties, they are never alone but are supported by the mighty power of God, and that they have their brothers in the priesthood and indeed the faithful of the entire world, as allies” (PO 22).

Although this has been overshadowed by a more recent document on priestly life, John Paul II’s Pastores Dabo Vobis (I Will Give You Shepherds, 1992), this is a very beautiful document that can truly help, first, the priest, in his reflection on how he can live this identity of being Christ’s representative here on earth, and, secondly, the faithful, to help them to understand how a priest really lives and effectively ministers.

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Church Alive

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The 32nd annual diocesan youth rally, “Proclaim His Name,” was held on the NSU campus in Thibodaux.

Bishop Sam G. Jacobs was the main celebrant of the closing Mass which was concelebrated by priests of the diocese. Veteran musician, composer and youth minister Steve Angrisano was the keynote speaker for the day. Hundreds of youth from across the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux attended the day-long event.

50

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

St. Francis de Sales Cemetery No. 2 Houma, Louisiana

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The mausoleum will be an enduring structure, combining the beauty of nature with the protection of steel-reinforced concrete and select granite. Each crypt in the facility will be a dry, sealed concrete chamber faced with a beautifully polished granite shutter. Names and dates can be inscribed into the granite shutter when time of need arrives.

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Dear Friends, We are pleased to announce that arrangeme nts have been completed to enlarge our mausoleum in St. Francis de Sales Cemetery No. 2.

St. Francis de Sales Cathedral has entered into an agreement with Acme Mausoleum LLC of New Orleans to cond uct a survey in our area to determine the size of the mausoleum. After the survey is completed, the Acme firm will build the memorial. This program has the my full approval Like our present facilities, this beautiful maus oleum will be constructed so that it will be standing for centuries to come. The structure will be built with the finest materials, steel reinforced concrete and select granite.

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Acme Mausoleum LLC has over 100 years of memorial experience. They were the builders of our existing facilities and are offering to us the same trustworthy credentials and satisfactor y servi ce.

Representatives will conduct a survey in this area for the next several weeks to answer questions about the mausoleum and determine who is interested in making provisions for their families. The size of the mausoleum will be determined by the number of crypts selec ted before construction begins.

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Special Guest Columnist Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L.

W 52

When I was travelling back from teaching at the seminary late one Halloween night, I stopped at a store and walked into the midst of the great holiday transformation.

Halloween costumes and decorations were swiftly being carted away while Christmas decorations were decking the halls. Skeletons and witches gave way to Santa and wreaths with no turkeys or pilgrims in sight for Thanksgiving.

And while this store seemingly forgot about Thanksgiving, the radio station did not.

It broadcasted Christmas music at the beginning of that Thanksgiving week only to switch back to regular programing before Christmas day was even over. It seems as though our culture is telling us that we are not supposed to enjoy the holidays, just constantly prepare for the next.

However, the Catholic liturgical year allows a person both to prepare for the festivities and enjoy them for more than one day. Advent allows four weeks to prepare for the celebration of the birth of Christ our savior and then nearly an entire month of the Christmas season.

Similarly, we have just spent six weeks of Lent preparing for the commemoration of Christ’s paschal mystery, his suffering, death and resurrection. Even though the Easter candy has long ago been eaten (although the added pounds may have lingered), we enjoy seven weeks of being reminded of Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

Easter season and Pentecost had its beginnings in the Jewish festival of Shavuot, which

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • May 2013

concludes the seven week period after Passover and commemorates the anniversary of the day God gave the Torah to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. It is also called the Festival of Weeks and the Festival of Harvest or Reaping since it was the end of the seven-weeks of harvesting the barley and the beginning of the wheat harvest, falling around late May or early June. Since it occurs 50 days after Passover, the Greek-speaking Jews had rendered the festival Shavuot as Pentecost (Greek for fiftieth day).

Since the original New Testament books were written in Greek, Acts 2:1 also refers to Shavuot as Pentecost, “When the day of Pentecost was completed.”

In this passage from Scripture, the Holy Spirit fills the apostles on Pentecost, but we must also remember John 20:22 when on

the evening of his resurrection Jesus breathes on them saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” While the Spirit is fully poured out on the fiftieth day after the resurrection, the Spirit also begins to act upon the apostles on the first day.

In the 200s A.D., Pentecost comes to mean a period of 50 days instead of a one-day festival. The Latin translation of the Greek New Testaments translated Acts 2:1 as, “When the days of Pentecost were drawing to a close … ” The church developed a special way of observing this period.

First, it was characterized by joy originating in John 16:20, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your

Easter Season and Pentecost

a

grief will become joy.” Second, Christians would pray standing instead of kneeling because the Greek word for resurrection is anastasis, which literally means stand up. Third, fasting was forbidden. “As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day” (Mark 2:19-20). From Good Friday to Holy Saturday, Christians in this period ate and drank nothing. Because Jesus the bridegroom is present again, there cannot be fasting. Finally, Alleluia, which was silenced throughout Lent is sung frequently. In Revelation 19:1-7, this is the song of those risen, so the church on earth and in heaven joins together in this song of highest praise.

In the early 300s in Syria, the fiftieth day was celebrated as both the ascension of Jesus and the descent of the Holy Spirit. Later, the ascension is a distinct day (the fortieth day) while the descent remains the fiftieth day. The goal of the resurrection becomes the

ascension so that Jesus returns to the Father, and the bestowal of the Holy Spirit is the direct consequence of his return to the Father. The gift of the Holy Spirit is the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise, “Behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

With this development in the celebration of Pentecost, it was no longer designated 50 days but the fiftieth day, becoming a point rather than a whole season. The season of Pentecost was also divided into two parts. The first 40 days look back to the resurrection while the last 10 days anticipated the hope of the coming Holy Spirit. The paschal candle was then extinguished on Ascension Thursday. Pentecost became separated from the resurrection.

After the reform of the liturgy in the late 1960s, the church attempted to recover the original approach, but there was no way to toss out Ascension Thursday or Pentecost Sunday. Therefore, the liturgy retained both the Ascension and Pentecost but used the term

Easter to designate the period of 50 days just as Pentecost was used in ancient times. The season is thus influenced by the chronology of the Acts the Apostles and so is read from the Lectionary throughout the Easter season beginning with the second day of Easter.

Pentecost becomes the last and culminating day of the Easter season and ordinary time begins afterward. Now, the paschal candle is in the sanctuary through Pentecost Sunday and may be processed out at the end of Mass and placed near the baptismal font for use throughout the year.

On the Monday after Easter, many thoughts perhaps shifted away from Christ’s resurrection to the recent start of the baseball season, the end of school, or summer vacations. Nevertheless, for Catholics we are reminded in the weekday and weekend liturgies that Christ is risen from the dead, has ascended to the Father, and sent the Holy Spirit to dwell in us.

The liturgies call us to celebrate the mysteries of our faith not just for one day but every day.

53

Diocesan Programs This Month

St. Joseph Manor

“Revival”

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.

HTV/VISION COMMUNICATIONS, CHARTER COMM. & COMCAST CHANNEL 10 ALLEN’S TV CABLE MORGAN CITY CHANNEL 71 (Digital Channel 30.1-UHF & Channel 7.1-VHF) Mondays - 9:30 a.m.

Thursdays - 9:30 a.m. & 11:00 p.m.

Saturdays - 9:30 p.m.

“Spotlight on the Diocese” Host: Louis Aguirre With Guests: Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L.

Diocesan Director of Vocations Rector of Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales of Houma

Retirement Living At Its Best 1201 Cardinal Drive ~ Thibodaux SAFETY SECURITY COMPANIONSHIP AND MANY AMENITIES

St. Joseph Manor Currently Accepting Applications

For More Information Or To Schedule A Tour, Contact: Natalie Barbera

Marketing/Social Director, St. Joseph Manor

1201 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA 70301

Roch Gernon

(985) 446-9050 Fax: 449-0047

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

www.stjosephmanor.org

Vocations Office Program Director

www.bayoucatholic.com

Sports

Overtime

I 54

Ed Daniels

It was hours after LSU’s 11-4 win over Texas in the deciding game three of the 2009 College World Series in Omaha.

Before we packed up equipment, I decided to make one last trip around Rosenblatt Stadium.

I made the trip just in case the Tigers didn’t get back to Omaha the following season.

The memories were many. I peeked down the right field line.

It was there in the corner, that Warren Morris’ first home run of the season in the bottom of the ninth, landed to beat Miami in the championship game.

When the game ended I interviewed Morris’ father, tears streaming down his cheeks.

That was June 8, 1996.

Thirteen years later, I interviewed another Dad who was moved to tears.

In the bottom of the ninth, with LSU leading by seven runs, head coach Paul Mainieri inserted the late Wally Pontiff Jr.’s brother Nick in right field.

That night, Wally Senior was overcome with emotion.

Four years have gone by quickly, and with no LSU trips to

SINCE FAST

l

It might be time to cue up the music Omaha.

But, the 2013 Tigers look every bit the equal of the 2009 club.

The 2009 team’s best hitter was D.J. LeMahieu, who hit .350.

The top home run hitter on that club was Ryan Schimpf, who hit .336 with 22 home runs.

Thru 37 games in 2013, freshman shortstop Alex Bregman was hitting .432 with a slugging percentage of .652.

First baseman Mason Katz was hitting .422 thru 37 games. He had 13 home runs. His slugging percentage was an eye popping .800.

In 2009, Louis Coleman won 14 games with an ERA of 2.93.

Anthony Ranaudo was 12-3 with an ERA of 3.04. Reliever Matty Ott saved 16 games with an earned run average of 2.68.

In 2013, Aaron Nola won his first six decisions with more than a strikeout an inning.

Even with a loss at Arkansas, Ryan Eades’ ERA was 1.97.

Chris Cotton was starring in relief. He had struck out 28 in 23 innings. His earned run average was 1.17.

This LSU team is plenty good enough to not only make the trip to

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Omaha but be one of the favorites to win the National Championship.

Barring a late season collapse by LSU, the Tigers will be one of eight national seeds. With that seeding, comes the guarantee that LSU will be home for the regionals and a possible super regional.

Last season, LSU lost the third and final game of the super regional to Stony Brook, 7-2.

After that loss, LSU head coach Paul Mainieri said his team had no excuses.

“They outplayed us in every phase of the game,” said Mainieri.

Eleven months later, the Tigers are a much better offensive team.

Katz is having a season worthy of the college player of the year.

And, Bregman leads a host of freshman who have infused LSU’s lineup with real spark.

In Omaha, LSU fans flock to a bar called Barrett’s Barleycorn.

They play volleyball in the yard out back. And, inside an LSU flag hangs prominently behind the bar. The LSU fight song brings a crowded bar to its feet.

It might be time to cue up the music.

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