Acadiana Catholic by Acadiana Catholic

December 2011

Volume 27

No. 12

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The Official Monthly Publication of the Diocese of Lafayette

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011

Volume 27

Number 12

Up from the ashes – ground broken for new church By Jim Bradshaw WASHINGTON “I predict we will have a very

nice Christmas service next year,” architect Bob Lunsford said as ground was broken Oct. 29 for

Bishop Michael Jarrell and Father Albert G. Nunez blessed the site before breaking ground. Photo by Jim Bradshaw

a new Immaculate Conception Church. The new church will look almost identical to the 150-year old building that burned in January, except it will be slightly larger and made out of steel, not wood. Lunsford said it will be “a 21stcentury building with a 19th-century feel.” The interior will be much the same as the old one. Master Builders and Specialists of Lafayette was awarded the rebuilding contract. Construction cost will be about $2 million. Company president Jim Fuselier said that barring unexpectedly bad weather, construction should take about a year. Site preparation is to begin immediately. Lunsford said photographs will be used to help recreate details of the old church.

Revised Roman Missal binds Catholics across a 2,000-year history WASHINGTON (CNS) When the third edition of the English-language version of the Roman Missal was implemented at the beginning of Advent, it marked the continuing evolution of the eucharistic liturgy that began in the earliest days of the church. The most recent changes – which more closely reflect “Liturgiam Authenticam” (“The Authentic Liturgy”), the Congregation for Divine Worship and

“People may find it interesting that this has developed over centuries. It isn’t something dropped out of the sky at Vatican II, but it has a history.” the Sacraments’ 2001 document on liturgical translations – are unlikely to be the last, liturgists agree. From Aramaic to Greek to Latin to vernacular language after the Second Vatican Council,

the Mass has evolved over 2,000 years in an effort to help worshippers appreciate the mystery that is God.

PEW CARD SHOWS UPDATED LANGUAGE IN ENGLISH VERSION OF THIRD EDITION OF ROMAN MISSAL This is the updated language in the third edition of the Roman Missal, from a pew card published by Our Sunday Visitor. The new English version of the Roman Missal was implemented in the U.S. on the first Sunday of Advent, Nov. 27. (CNS) (Sept. 8, 20 11)

“It’s not the changing that’s abnormal. ” said Jesuit Father John Baldovin, professor of historical and liturgical theology at Boston College, who explores the history of the missal and the new English translation in a video series on the National Jesuit News website. The translation that began being implemented in English-speaking countries in 2010 has been openly criticized by some clergy and liturgy experts for its structurally complicated language that they believe strays from the intent of Vatican II’s liturgical reforms. But other liturgists responsible for catechesis on the missal are reminding the faithful that the translation helps bind modernday Catholics with early Christians through its more authentic language. “People may find it interesting that this has developed over centuries. It isn’t something dropped out of the sky at Vatican II, but it has a history,” said Christina Ronzio, director of the Office for Worship in the Cleveland Diocese.

Immaculate Conception Church in Washington burned to the ground last January. Photo by Jim Bradshaw

Inside this issue Our Lady Queen of Peace receives grant from Order of Malta.............................4 Catholics Returning Home to begin in early January.............................7 St. Genevieve Church opens its doors for viewing renovation.......................12 Angola bus trip planned for Dec. 18...........................17 Keeping Christ in Christmas: family ideas to help everyone focus on the real reason for the season............23-26 Deacon formation to begin in February 2012: deadline approaching....................27 Annual collection supports 34,000 retired sisters, brothers, priests in religious orders ............................29 Advent activities help Catholics prepare for Christmas.......................38

Acadiana Catholic

Page 4 December 2011

Our Lady Queen of Peace receives grant from Order of Malta

LAFAYETTE Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish in Lafayette recently received a $25,000 grant from the Order of Malta in order to assist with the rebuilding of the church, which burned in April 2010. This gift remains true to the Order’s principles as summarized in their motto: Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum—defense of the Faith and assistance to the poor and the suffering. “We are proud to be able to assist Our Lady Queen of Peace in their time of need,” says J. Daniel Bouilgny, first regional Hospitaller of the Lafayette Order of Malta. “It has been almost two years that the parishioners have been without a permanent Church home and the Order of Malta is honored to be a part of the bricks and mortar reconstruction.” Over 45 years ago, Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish was established by the faithful from the neighborhoods of Truman, Lillian Heights and Wash-

The Order of Malta recently presented Our Lady Queen of Peace Church with a $25,000 grant to help the parish rebuild after a fire destroyed much of the church interior in April 2010. Pictured above from left to right: Rashida Henry, Lizzie Murray, Peter Broussard,Paul Carter, Father Hampton Davis (pastor), Very Rev. Thomas James, SVD, VE, Dan Bouligny, Jeannine Sibille, Marla David, Mary Calloway, Paul David, Randy Haynie, and Tom Westcott. Photo submitted by Andree Gonsoulin

ington Heights. By November 1975, after years of dedicated work and sacrifice by the founding families of the parish, the church had become home to many of all ages, races and backgrounds. Since the fire on April 16, 2010, Father Hampton Davis III (pastor) and his parishioners have been utilizing the un-air conditioned Truman Elementary School gym for their

worship space. The parish has established a fire fund to help rebuild the interior of the church, and to date has raised almost $800,000 toward that goal. The Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes, and of Malta (commonly

known as the “Order of Malta”) is a lay religious order of the Catholic Church. One of the oldest institutions of Western and Christian civilization, it was founded in Jerusalem during the eleventh century, and its members seek to glorify God through their work with the poor and the sick and their witness of the Catholic faith. Today, the Order carries out humanitarian assistance and medical and relief efforts in over 120 countries. Lafayette was designated as a Hospitaller Region in 2009, and Dan Bouligny serves as the first Regional.

Acadiana Catholic

ACADIANA CATHOLIC (ISSN0888-0247) (USPS507-760) is published monthly for $12 per year by the Southwest Press, 1408 Carmel Ave., Lafayette, LA 70501-5306. Periodical postage paid at Lafayette, LA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Acadiana Catholic, 1408 Carmel Ave., Lafayette, LA 70501-5306 Official Monthly Newspaper for the Diocese of Lafayette, Louisiana Copyright 2011

Publisher Most Rev. Michael Jarrell, D.D. Bishop of Lafayette

Editor/Director Deacon Thomas R. Sommers (337) 261-5513 tsommers@diolaf.org Marketing Director Business Mgr / Advertising Director Patrick Breaux (337) 261-5518 or (337) 235-7704 pbreaux@diolaf.org / pat@breaux.com Staff Writer Stephanie R. Martin (337) 261-5512 smartin@diolaf.org Contributing Writer Kathleen Toups Theological Consultants Msgr. H.A. Larroque, J.C.D. Father Curtis Mallet, J.C.L. Vicars General

From the diocesan newspaper, The Acadiana Catholic, December, 1998 — Cardinal Pio Laghi shows his appreciation at the youth rally at St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette. Cardinal Laghi described his visit to the Diocese of Lafayette as “building a sp0uiritual bridge between the Diocese of Lafayette and Rome.” Bishop Edward J. O’Donnell, left background, was host for the Cardinal Photo by P.C. Piazza

The Diocese of Lafayette serves eight civil parishes with population of 331,000 Catholics. Published monthly. Deadline for news and advertising copy is noon of the 15th day of the month preceding publication. For renewal subscriptions, the name of your church parish and your address label (if available) are requested. The publisher and editor reserve the right to reject, omit or edit any article or letter submitted for publication. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Lafayette and/or the Acadiana Catholic cannot be held liable, or in any way responsible for the content of any advertisement printed in this paper.

Diocese of Lafayette Web page: www.diolaf.org

PRAY FOR YOUR DEPARTED CLERGY Father Louis H. Boudreaux, Dec. 2, 1974 Father Joseph P. McGill, S.J., Dec. 2, 2009 Father Edmond Daull, Dec. 5, 1949 Father Ferdinand Grimaud, Dec. 6, 1923 Father Robert Kearns, SSJ, Dec. 6, 2008 Father Theodore M.L.C. Van Eyck, Dec. 16, 1936 Father Charles Devirat, Dec. 10, 1946

Father Alphonse Martel, Dec. 10, 1959 Father Joseph V. Monteillard, Dec. 11, 1953 Father Kenneth Morvant, Dec. 14, 2003 Father Justin Mirat, Dec. 23, 1960 Father Alois R. Reznicek, Dec. 23, 1985 Father Josephat A. Demers, Dec. 25, 1957 Father Jules A. Jeanmard, Dec. 25, 1971 Father Albert LeBlanc, Dec. 25, 1987

Monday

Sunday

Tuesday

Father William J. Teurlings, Dec. 26, 1957 Father Ernest Moreau, Dec. 27, 1956 Msgr. F.H. Gouaux, Dec. 28, 1985 Msgr. George A. Bodin, Dec. 28, 1988 Father Hubert A. Lerschen, Dec. 30, 1965 Deacon Roy Melancon, Dec. 30, 2005 Father Joseph J. Windt, Dec. 31, 1979

Wednesday

December 2011 4

Second Sunday of Advent Survivors of Violence Mass, Immaculata Chapel, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Reception following in Marian Hall

Third Sunday of Advent

Advent Weekday Holy Hour for Vocations, Saint Patrick Church, Lafayette, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

LIMEX Class, 5:00 - 9:30 p.m., Levasseur Conference Room, Immaculata Center

Our Lady of Guadalupe Rosary Makers Meeting, Immaculata Center, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. LIMEX Class, 5:00 - 9:30 p.m., Levasseur Conference Room, Immaculata Center.

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Late Advent Weekday

The Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions December general intention:

That all peoples may grow in harmony and peace through mutual understanding and respect.

Mission intention:

That children and young people may be messengers of the Gospel and that they may be respected and preserved from all violence and exploitation.

Thursday

Advent Weekday 12th Annual Estate Planning Continuous Planning Seminar, 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Immaculata Center

Friday Advent Weekday

Advent Weekday SEPI Quarterly Meeting, Katharine Drexel Room, Immaculata Center, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Food for the Journey Speaker Series, Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1801 W. Pinhook Rd., Lafayette. 11:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

St. Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor Council of Priests’ Christmas Luncheon, Bishop’s Residence. 11:45 a.m.

Bishop’s Development Council Meeting, Bishop Jeanmard Conference Room, Immaculata Center, 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

“Monthly Manna” Ecumenical Lunchtime Speaker Series. Speaker: Father Eugene Tremie, Pastor of St. Marcellus Church, Rynella. Forest Restaurant, Franklin. 11:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Late Advent Weekday

Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Diocesan Offices closed

Advent Weekday

Companions Along the Journey (Bereavement Support Group) Katharine Drexel Room, Immaculata Center, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

St. John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor

Late Advent Weekday

Nativity of the Lord

St. Stephen, Deacon and First Martyr

St. John, Apostle

Holy Innocents, Martyrs

Advent Weekday Advent Retreat for Religious. John XXIII, Immaculata Center, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Advent Weekday Companions Along the Journey (Bereavement Support Group) Katharine Drexel Room, Immaculata Center, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Late Advent Weekday

Advent Weekday

Late Advent Weekday

Diocesan Offices closed through December 26

Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration, Our Lady of Fatima Church, Lafayette, 6:00 p.m.

National Night of Prayer for Life 9:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

St. Lucy, Virgin and Martyr

St. Francis Xavier, Priest

Diaconate Class, John XXIII, Immaculata Center, 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Council of Priests Meeting, 9:30 a.m., Jeanmard Conference Room, Immaculata Center

Saturday

Fifth Day in Octave of Christmas

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Diocesan Offices closed to January 2, 2012

Late Advent Weekday

Late Advent Weekday, Vigil of Christmas

Seventh Day in Octave of Christmas

Page 6 December 2011

Acadiana Catholic

Annual priests vs. seminarians basketball game OPELOUSAS The 6th Annual Priests vs. Seminarians basketball game will be held on Wednesday, December 28 inside the Opelousas Catholic High School Gym. The game is set to start at 6:00 p.m., and all are invited to come out in support of the Lafayette Diocese’s priest (Runnin’ Revs) and seminarians (Slammin’ Sems). Concessions will be available on the premises.

Catholics Returning Home to begin in early January LAFAYETTE St. Pius X and Holy Cross Church, both in Lafayette, will be hosting a Catholics Returning Home program, a ministry of compassion and reconciliation, consisting of six weekly sessions beginning Monday January 16th through February 20th at St. Pius X from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the meeting room of the Annex Building. Any Catholic who has been away from the Church and is interested in returning is invited to the weekly sessions. Discussions included in all sessions. Week 1: Welcome, overview, sharing of stories Week 2: Returning Catholics— why do they leave? Why do they return? Week 3: The Church today – Changes since Vatican II Week 4: The Mass

December 2011 Page 7 Week 5: Sacrament of Reconciliation Week 6: The Creed: What Catholics believe There is no fee to attend and anyone interested can contact Ashton Mouton at St. Pius X at 232-4656 or 296-6713 or evangelization@stpiusxchurch.org, or John Schexnaildre at Holy Cross at 984-654-9671 or 654-9671 or adultfaith@holycrosslafayette. com . Also see www.catholicsreturninghome.org

St. Leo the Great Church to offer a Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols LAFAYETTE On Sunday, December 8, 2011, St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Lafayette will offer a program of lessons and carols for the Advent Season. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is the format for a service of Christian worship celebrating the birth of Jesus. The story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus is told in nine short Bible readings from Genesis, the prophetic books and the Gospels, interspersed with the singing of Christmas carols, hymns and choir music. Musical selections are: Veni Emmanuel – Henry; Redeemer – Bryson; O Come, Emmanuel – Rutter; There Is No Rose – Henry; Rejoice – Healy; Child of Mary – Guiao; O Holy Night –Adam; and VomHimmel Hoch – Vesa. Msgr. Robie E. Robichaux, JCL, is pastor of St. Leo the

Great Church. Rafael J. Henry is director of music/organist and Steven R. Landry, cantor. The program is free asnd open to the public.

March for Life to pray for end to abortion NEW IBERIA The South Region of the Diocese of Lafayette will host a “March for Life” on Tuesday, January 17, 2012 beginning at the Grotto on Main Street in New Iberia and ending at St. Peter Church. The Eucharistic Procession will begin in silence at 5:30 p.m. Upon arriving at the church, a Mass for Life will be celebrated with Father Gregory Chauvin, pastor of St. Nicholas Church, Lydia, as celebrant. A love offering will be collected during the Mass. There will be a five-day Rosary Congress with 24-hour Adoration for five days following the March and Mass with a pro-life Rosary recited every hour on the hour.

CORRECTION The Acadiana Catholic would like to clarify the biographical information for Miss Allison Marcel, co-chair of this year’s African American Youth Congress (AAYC) which was held on November 19. In the November edition, the Acadiana Catholic inadvertently published that Allison held the leading role in TCH’s 2011 Spring Musical; the article should have stated that Allison held one of the leading roles. Also, it should be noted that Allison had previously participated in the AAYC for three years, having served as a dancer and facilitator in the past. “God grant you the light in Christmas, which is faith; the warmth of Christmas, which is love; the radiance of Christmas, which is purity; the righteousness of Christmas, which is justice; the belief in Christmas, which is truth; the all of Christmas, which is Christ.” - Wilda English

Acadiana Catholic

Page 8 December 2011

Local firm donates to diner for holiday meals

St. Joseph Diner recently accepted a donation from Preis & Roy that helped fund Thanksgiving dinner and will fund Christmas day meals for Acadiana’s hungry and homeless. The local law firm has a longstanding tradition of supporting the diner’s holiday efforts. The diner has served those in need since 1973 and currently provides over 200 meals a day. Pictured from left to right: Holly Gauthier, Preis & Roy director of marketing, Autumn dela Houssaye, St. Joseph Diner director and Kim James Boudreaux, Lafayette Catholic Service Centers executive director.

Last days to donate gifts for Child Smile program LAFAYETTE Only days remain for those who intend to donate children’s gifts to be distributed through

the Child Smile program. As the sponsor of the program, the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Justice & Peace would like to remind everyone that donated gifts should be received by the office no later than Monday, December 12 in order to ensure their distribution to children in need.

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The Child Smile program provides gifts to children whose parents are currently incarcerated; surplus gifts are also distributed through local service centers. Donated gifts should be new, wrapped, and properly labeled as to whether it is intended for a girl or a boy within the age categories of infant to 2 years; 35 years; 6-8 years; 9-12 years; or teenager. Donations to the Child Smile program may be dropped off at the front desk of the Immaculata Center in Lafayette, located at 1408 Carmel Drive, during the hours of 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Donations may also be received from 8:30 a.m. until 12:00 noon on Friday. For further details on the Child Smile program, please contact the Office of Justice & Peace at (337) 261-5545.

Bishop Michael Jarrell’s Thanksgiving message LAFAYETTE Bishop Michael Jarrell issued the following message last month before the Thanksgiving holidays: “Thanksgiving is a national holiday for our country. It helps us to think of ourselves as Americans and to remember our religious heritage. It helps us to remember the role that religion has played in public life. Thanks-

giving Day had its origin in the awareness that it is fitting to express gratitude to God, and to do so publicly as a people, and with the urging of our government, and the participation of political leaders. “The issue of the relationship between church and state has always been a part of our political discussion and it continues to this day. If the extremists have their way, the motto, “In God we Trust,” will disappear from our currency, the phrase, “Under God,” will be dropped from the Pledge of Allegiance and the fourth Thursday of November will be just another work day. With one voice then, let us thank God who has shed his grace so bountifully on our country, and let us pray that he may continue to bless her and guide her with his light from above.”

St. Peter Church, Four Corners, to celebrate 50 years FOUR CORNERS Saint Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Four Corners will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary on Sunday, December 11, 2011. There will be a Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael Jarrell. Following the Mass there will be a dinner and fellowship. All are invited to come and celebrate. And the angel said unto them, “Fear not! For, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, Which shall be to all people. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David A Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, Lying in a manger. -St. Luke ii. 10-12

Acadiana Catholic

Father Kevin Bordelon to speak at January “Food for the Journey” with several seminarians LAFAYETTE The January guest speaker for “Food for the Journey” will be Father Kevin Bordelon, associate pastor of Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Lafayette. “Food for the Journey” will be held on Tu e s d a y, January 3, 2012, at Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1801 W. Pinhook Road. Father Bordelon is also direc- Father Kevin Bordelon tor of the Office of Vocations and Seminarians and director of the Office of Ongoing Formation of priests for the Diocese of Lafayette. Several Seminarians will join Father Bordelon and introduce themselves as part of this presentation. “Food for the Journey,” is a monthly lunchtime speaker series designed to help Catholics live out their faith in their daily lives. It is sponsored by the Central Region of the Diocese of Lafayette. The program will begin at 12:00 noon. An optional buffet lunch is available beginning at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $12.00 and includes meal, drink, dessert and tip. All are welcome to come “eat and be fed.” Pre-registration is not required. For more information, please call Mary Bergeron (654-8682) or visit www.centralregiononline.org

Holy Spirit retreat for teens and young adults METAIRIE The annual Holy Spirit Retreat for Teens and Young Adults sponsored by the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of New Orleans will be held at the Landmark Hotel in Metairie, January 6-8, 2012. Each year “January Retreat,” as it has come to be known throughout the region, has brought together hundreds of youths for a weekend of inspiration, praise, worship and fellowship. This year’s theme, “Loved” is

December 2011 Page 9 taken from I John 4:19: “We love, because he has first loved us.” Speakers include Father Steve Bruno, Father Kyle Dave, Matt Bourgeois, Colin MacIver, Timmy McCaffery, Audrey Seghers, Laine Bodin, Casey Sprehe, Josh Johnson, Leslie Bertucci and many more. Music will be provided by Brad Doyle. Teens of high school age and older are welcome, including youth groups with one chaperone for every eight teens. Group registration: email youth@ccrno.org. Individual registration online at www. ccrno.org. Cost is $160 which includes room, board, four meals and a retreat T-shirt for those who register by December 9. Promotional video at www.ccrno. org/youth. Questions: email youth@ ccrno.org or call CCRNO at 504828-1368.

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect. –Oren Arnold

December Ordination Anniversaries

Father Thomas W. Montelaro Dec. 6, 1975

Father Jose Padinjarepeedika, C.M.I. Dec. 8, 1972 Father Michael Sucharski, S.V.D. Dec. 10, 1983 Father Rex Broussard Dec. 17, 1966 Msgr. L. Michael Herpin Dec. 17, 1966 Father Martin Leonards Dec. 17, 1966 Father Grady Estilette Dec. 18, 1962 Msgr. Richard Greene Dec. 18, 1965 Father Thomas James, S.V.D. Dec. 18, 1969 Father Robert Courville Dec. 21, 1962 Father Jules C. Speyrer Dec. 22, 1945 Father Louis V. LeDoux Dec. 27, 1952 Father Donald Pelous Dec. 29, 1977 JANUARY, 2011 Msgr. J. Douglas Courville Jan. 3, 1976 Father Michael Guidry Jan. 8, 1971

Acadiana Catholic

Page 10 December 2011

Cathedral choir to offer Lessons and Carols

Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist choir

LAFAYETTE A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols for the season of Advent will be held at St. John Cathedral, 914 St. John Street in Downtown Lafayette, on Sunday evening, December 11th at 7:30 p.m. The Cathedral Choir under the direction of Thomas Niel will sing seasonal carols in the candlelit ambiance of the Cathedral. Carols will be interspersed with readings from Holy Scripture and the Office of Readings

which tell the story of humanity’s salvation from the first moment of our disobedience in the Garden of Eden through the foretelling of the prophets of the coming Messiah to the announcement of the birth of Jesus to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Father Chester Arceneaux, pastor of the Cathedral, will preside. This service is open to the public free of charge. For more information, please call (337) 232-1322 or email: sjcmusic@ yahoo.com.

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Serra Club meets with Bishop Jarrell LAFAYETTE Presentation of a check for the seminary burse highlighted the November meeting of the Lafayette Serra Club with Bishop Michael Jarrell of Lafayette. Bishop Jarrell hosted the meeting at Immaculata Center. The program started with Mass in the chapel celebrated by Bishop Jarrell. In his homily he noted it was the feast of St. Charles Borromeo who worked to reform the clergy and is considered the father of the modern seminary. During the breakfast meeting in Marian Hall Serra president George Arceneaux presented a check for $500 to the bishop for the seminary fund. Expressing gratitude for the gift, Bishop Jarrell said seminary expenses continue to rise. He commended Serra’s continual support of vocations. He also advised that several Knights of Columbus councils have also been helping. The bishop announced one ordination for June, but for the next two years there will be six candidates for the priesthood. There are 31 seminarians at present. Arceneaux announced Bishop Jarrell would lead prayers at the

December 5 vocation holy hour at St. Patrick Church. All interested persons are welcome to this holy hour.

St. Mary Magdalen Church announces free Christmas concert ABBEVILLE Father William Blanda, pastor of St. Mary Magdalen Church in Abbeville, has announced that the date of their annual Christmas concert will be Monday, December 19 at 7:00 p.m. Organ preludes will begin at 6:40 p.m. This concert features the voices of St. Mary Magdalen adult choir, directed by Tommy Guidry, and the St. Mary Magdalen children’s choir, directed by Jennifer Melancon. The choirs will be accompanied by the St. Mary Magdalen pipe organ and a chamber orchestra. This evening of sacred music is free and open to the public. “Love offerings” will be accepted during the concert from those who wish to support this performance and the church music program at St. Mary Magdalen. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 11

Acadiana Catholic

Page 12 December 2011

Thank you & best wishes to Beverly Broussard

Beverly Broussard

LAFAYETTE At the end of 2011, the central office staff of the Lafayette Diocese will bid a fond farewell to Beverly Broussard as she retires. Beverly has been an Administrative Assistant to the Finance Director with the Office of Fiscal Administration for 38 years and has served four of the six bishops appointed to the Lafayette Diocese: Bishops Gerard Frey, Harry Flynn, Edward O’Donnell, and Michael Jarrell. She began the job in October 1973, and to this day expresses her gratitude to Ms. Mary Parker, Finance Director for the diocese until her own retirement at the end of

2007, for hiring and training her for the position of administrative assistant. Now, Beverly confesses that she has mixed feelings about her retirement; she is looking forward to a little down time, but she will also miss the camaraderie of her coworkers. “We have always had a great working relationship in this department,” she notes, “and working for the diocese has been a very enjoyable experience.” Over the years, Beverly’s responsibilities with the Office of Fiscal Administration have encompassed everything from the standard clerical to the more personal. She has assisted all of the central departments in paying bills, preparing deposits, and maintaining financial records. Beverly has also worked with the church parishes in regards to property insurance, and aided the clergy in filing necessary claims with health insurance. She was also a recipient of the Bishop’s medal in 2001. Best wishes and a heartfelt thank you are extended to Beverly on behalf of the entire Lafayette Diocese. Please remember her in prayer as she prepares to enjoy her retirement.

St. Genevieve Church opens its doors for viewing renovation LAFAYETTE Visitors to St. Genevieve Church at the corner of East Simcoe and Evangeline Thruway have been able to see the new artwork on the arch above the altar of St. Genevieve Church, including paintings of St. John Vianney, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, St. Joseph and St. Theresa of Lisieux. The church has been undergoing remodeling and restoration since April 25, 2011. The recessed arches, where the doors leading out of the sacristy once stood, will house statues of the Sacred Heart and the Blessed Mother, and there will be side altars at these locations. These shrines also feature gold leaf decorations and an angel stationed over each. In the sanctuary, the original ribs and columns have been treated to give the look of marble. The two altars will also be finished in faux marble. The high altar features a mother pelican feeding her young, and the altar of sacrifice features a carving of the Last Supper on the front panel. The tabernacle will be unveiled at the end of the remodeling project. It will be about three feet tall and will be gold over brass. There will be angel frescoes on both sides of the high altar. The dome of the sanctuary will feature paintings of the various scenes in the life of St. Genevieve, the patron saint of the parish.

St. Genevieve’s altar of sacrifice features a carving of the Last Supper on the front panel.

The ceiling wood has been refinished and the original chandeliers have been refitted. The original stations of the cross are being refinished and the original holy water fonts at the door will remain. The original baptismal font is being returned to the church. There are many other improvements and aesthetic additions that remain to be completed. Ladies of the parish are being invited to become members of the Altar Society if they are not already. The Altar Society will be in charge of the proper care for all the renovations and will purchase or sew altar cloths to fit the new altars. St. Genevieve Parish is hoping to return to its services in the church sometime in December. Rededication is tentavtively set for January 3, 2012 which is the feast of St. Genevieve. For more information, please call the rectory at (337) 2345147.

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 13

Acadiana Catholic

Page 14 December 2011

La Nueva Evangelización Por Obispo Michael Jarrell

Hace varios años, el Papa Juan Pablo II empezó a usar la frase, “Nueva Evangelización”. Parece que él tenía algunas ideas de su significado, pero no las explicó de una manera específica. La evangelización significa llevar la Buena Nueva de la salvación en Jesucristo al pueblo. La “antigua” evangelización empezó en Pentecostés cuando los discípulos comenzaron a proclamar su fe invitando a otros a compartirla. Esta proclamación ha sido el corazón de la misión de la Iglesia por casi 2,00 años. El Papa Benedicto ha hablado de la nueva Evangelización también. Él usó el término en un reciente discurso a un grupo de obispos estadounidenses. Dijo: “Muchos de ustedes han compartido conmigo su preocupación sobre los graves desafíos que una sociedad cada vez más secularizada presenta a quienes quieren dar una testimonio cristiano sólido.” Continuó, señalando la preocupación de muchas personas por el futuro de las sociedades democráticas. El expresó que ellos ven, “una ruptura alarmante en los principios intelectuales, cul-

turales y morales de la vida social, y un sentido creciente de desorientación e inseguridad, especialmente entre los jóvenes, frente a los grandes cambios de la sociedad”. Así, la Nueva Evangelización, parece ser nueva en el sentido de que tratará de los temores de aquellos que piensan que todo en la vida es flexible y subjetivo y que no hay nada absoluto, permanente o significativo. El Santo Padre animó a los Obispos a “impulsar la dimensión profética de su ministerio episcopal, hablando de una manera humilde pero insistente, en defensa de la verdad moral y ofreciendo una palabra de esperanza capaz de abrir corazones y mentes a la verdad que nos hace libres.” Inmediatamente después felicitó a los Obispos por su reciente documento sobre la naturaleza del matrimonio como una institución compuesta de un solo hombre y una sola mujer. La Nueva Evangelización consiste de un mensaje nuevo, o una nueva forma del mensaje, dirigida a la situación del mundo de hoy. Hasta cierto punto, es re-evangelización de las sociedades que antes eran cristianas, pero ahora lo son menos. Europa occidental es el primer ejemplo de esta realidad, pero, de cierta manera se le puede aplicar a los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica también. En reuniones futuras con grupos de Obispos de los Estados Unidos, el Santo Padre va a explicar de un modo más detallado sus ideas referentes a la Nueva Evangelización. Tengo muchos deseos de escucharle cuando los Obispos de la Región V se reúnan con él a finales de enero

respond to the problem. While the church is rightly held to high standards, all other institutions should be held to the same standards as they address the causes, extent and consequences of sexual abuse, which has become a “scourge” at every level of society, the pope said Nov. 26. On wider issues, including the institution of marriage, the pope encouraged the bishops to speak out “humbly yet insistently in defense

en Roma. La evangelización – antigua y nueva – implica una invitación a la comunión con Cristo en Su Iglesia. En la última Cuaresma, una serie de anuncios aparecieron en los canales locales de televisión, invitando a los católicos no practicantes a “regresar a casa.” Estos anuncios y otros nuevos aparecerán en canales nacionales entre el 17 de diciembre y el 9 de enero. En la Diócesis de Lafayette, nuestro Programa “Come Home for Christmas” (Regresen a Casa para la Navidad) ha comenzado. Con la ayuda del equipo pastoral diocesano de extensión de ayuda, animé a los párrocos a formar sus propios equipos de laicos para ir de casa en casa para ofrecer una invitación más personal. En cuanto la Evangelización adquiera fuerza, más parroquias participarán en este programa. Mientras nos preparamos para celebrar la natividad de Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, estaremos atentos a las palabras y eventos relatados en los Evangelios. La historia de la Navidad volverá una vez más a revivirse y Cristo nacerá en nuestros corazones. También recordaremos las palabras del Jesús adulto, quien miraba a un pueblo confundido, en busca de Dios, y les dijo: “Vengan a Mí”. En su esencia, la Nueva Evangelización es muy semejante a la Antigua Evangelización. Es el trabajo de la Iglesia en obediencia a Jesús el Señor.

of moral truth.” Responding to the challenges of a secularized culture will first require the “re-evangelization” of the church’s own members, he said. The pope made the remarks in a speech to bishops from the state of New York, who were in Rome for their “ad limina” visits. The group was led by Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, who as president of the U.S. bishops’ con-

ference has spoken of the need to restore the church’s credibility and its evangelizing capacity. The pope began his talk by recalling his 2008 visit to the United States, which he said was aimed at encouraging Catholics in the wake of the sex abuse crisis. He said he wanted to acknowledge the suffering inflicted on victims as well as the church’s efforts to ensure the safety of children.

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 15

The new evangelization By Bishop Michael Jarrell

Several years ago, Pope John Paul II began using the phrase, “The New Evangelization.” It seems that he had some ideas about what it meant, but he did not spell them out. Evangelization means bringing the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ to people. The old evangelization began at Pentecost when the disciples began proclaiming their faith and inviting others to share it. This proclamation has been at the heart of the Church’s mission for almost 2,000 years. Pope Benedict has also been speaking about the New Evangelization. He used the term in his recent address to a group of American Bishops. He said, “Many of you have shared with me your concern about the grave challenges to a consistent Christian witness presented by an increasingly secularized society.” He went on to refer to the concern of many people for the future of democratic societies. He said that they see “a troubling breakdown in the in-

Catholic seminary enrollment up, but numbers seen as only part of story WASHINGTON (CNS) In his first months as rector of Theological College in Washington, Father Phillip J. Brown has been confronting a problem that the national diocesan seminary for the U.S. Catholic Church

tellectual, cultural and moral foundations of social life and a growing sense of dislocation and insecurity, especially among the young, in the face of wide-ranging societal changes.” Thus, the New Evangelization seems to be new in the sense that it will address the fears of people who feel that everything in life is flexible and subjective and that there is nothing absolute, permanent or meaningful. The Holy Father encouraged the Bishops “to exercise the prophetic dimension of your episcopal ministry by speaking out humbly, yet insistently, in defense of moral truth and offering a word of hope capable of opening hearts and minds to the truth that sets us free.” He went on to commend the Bishops for their recent document on the nature of marriage as an institution involving one man and one woman. The New Evangelization consists of a new message, or a new shaping of the message, designed to address the situation in today’s world. To some extent, it is re-evangelization of societies which once were Christian, but now are less so. Western Europe is the prime example, but to some extent, it applies to the Untied States as well. In future meetings with groups of American Bishops, the Holy Father will spell out his ideas about the New Evangelization. I look forward to hearing him when the Bishops of Region V meet with him at the end of January in Rome.

“has not had for a long time” – it is bursting at the seams. Enrollment is maxed out for the 2011-12 academic year at 90 seminarians. Five of those seminarians are back in their dioceses this year gaining pastoral experience, but a Sulpician seminarian and five priests from other countries also live there, bringing the total number of residents to 91 plus faculty members. “If I had to start with a problem, that’s the

Evangelization—old and new—involves the invitation to communion with Christ in His Church. Last Lent, a series of television ads were aired on local channels with the invitation to non-practicing Catholics to return home. Those ads and some new ones will be aired on national networks from December 17 to January 9. In the Diocese of Lafayette, our Come Home for Christmas Program is now in progress. This, too, is a program of invitation. It is all part of the New Evangelization. With the help of the Diocesan Pastoral Outreach Initiative Task Force, I have encouraged pastors to form teams of parishioners to go out and offer personal invitations on a house-to-house basis. As the New Evangelization gains momentum, more and more parishes will be a part of this effort. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of the Lord Jesus, we will be attentive to the words and events described in the Gospels. The Christmas story will come once again alive and Christ will be born in our hearts. We will also remember the words of the adult Jesus who looked upon a confused people who were searching for God and said, “Come to me.” In essence, the New Evangelization is very much like the Old Evangelization. It is the work of the Church in the obedience to the Lord Jesus.

problem I’d like to have,” Father Brown told Catholic News Service. “It’s a very healthy sign, a positive sign for Theological College and for the U.S. priesthood.” The trend of rising seminary enrollment is being duplicated around the country: At the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio, 40 new seminarians arrived this year, bringing total enrollment to 186, the highest level since the 1970s; St.

Paul Seminary School of Divinity at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn., welcomed 30 new graduate-level seminarians, making its class of 100 seminarians the largest since 1980. In the Diocese of Scranton, Pa., where the St. Pius X diocesan seminary closed in 2004 because of declining enrollment, the number of seminarians has more than doubled from eight to 17 in the past two years.

Acadiana Catholic

Page 16 December 2011

Charitable fundraising at St. Ignatius School

GRAND COTEAU Students of St. Ignatius School in Grand Coteau are actively learning that “giving is more gratifying than receiving” by participating in several fundraising endeavors for various non-profit organizations. So far, this has included a St. Jude’s MathA-Thon and a Miles Perret “Pennies for Miles” drive. The service projects not only allow the students to experience the act of giving, but also to let them learn firsthand what it’s like to bring a little joy into the lives of others. The students of St. Ignatius School

have also embarked on fundraising efforts in order to sponsor a “Dream Child’s Wish” through the “Dreams Come True” program. “Dreams Come True” is another non-profit organization that grants “dreams” to Louisiana children who are coping with life-threatening illnesses. Since mid-November, St. Ignatius students have been raising money through weekly bake sales held each Friday after their lunch period. In the spring, students will also collect pledges and participate in “Walking for Dreams” to raise further funds to meet their goal.

Back in October, St. Ignatius students concluded a six-week penny drive, reaching their goal of raising $4,500 and earning them a special celebration dance with the school’s Cardinal mascot. Photo submitted by St. Ignatius School

A Vacation with the Lord

Our Lady of the Oaks Retreat House, Grand Coteau, La. (337) 662-5410 www.ourladyoftheoaks.com

The Incarnation

John Schexnaildre Adult Faith Formation: Holy Cross Church, Spiritual Director

“And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth”(John 1:14). The incarnation is the great mystery of God humbling Himself by becoming one of us. It’s about the incredible journey from heaven to earth, even farther than the two million light years to the nearest galaxy. In his book The Holy Longing, Fr. Ronald Rolheiser says that the Incarnation is not only the central mystery of our faith but also the mystery that is the most misunderstood. Of course we can never fully understand a mystery, but that doesn’t mean we cannot know something about it. A mystery is something that is infinitely knowable. So what can we understand about the incarnation and what are the implications of the incarnation in our lives? Is it something that happened two thousand years ago and ended with the death of Jesus? Fr. Rolheiser says that the incarnation never ended and that it is still going on today in us. Jesus showed us the way, the way to become human. Now we are called not only to believe in Him but to be His ongoing presence in the world. We are His mystical body. We are the ongoing mystery of death and resurrection of Christ. What happened to Him continues in us. In our liturgy we gather as the body of Christ to receive the Body of Christ. St. Augustine says we are to become what we receive. We are to become the very presence of Christ in the world. During the seasons of Advent and Christmas, how can we become that presence in our world? It seems that the season of buy, buy, buy can bury the spiritual life of any Christian under the deadness of secular compulsions. Perhaps we are called to the small sacrifices that define compassion as we wait in line, drive through heavy traffic, or deal with a difficult relative. Christ incarnates himself within us when we speak with kindness instead of hostility, show patience instead of competitiveness, offer unconditional love in the place of judgments and condemnation of another. Then it is his light that shines in the world, so needed as we see and understand how great a darkness has yet to be overcome, even within ourselves. Fr. Rolheiser concludes his chapter on the Incarnation in his book The Holy Longing with these words: “The fire energy of God that so burns inside us will come to maturity, creativity, and calm when we shape our lives and our bodies in the way that Jesus shaped his, when we help him carry the incarnation forward.” “What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race.”(John 1:4-5) Plan to attend retreat at Our Lady of the Oaks in the New Year. Become a part of Christ’s light brought forth to a darkened world. Come to maturity, compassion, creativity, and calm in Christ.

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 17

Advent bus trip to Angola planned for Dec. 18

LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Justice & Peace is organizing a bus trip to Angola State Penitentiary on Sunday, December 18. This trip is being offered free of charge to those in need of transportation to visit their incarcerated loved ones during the Advent season. The bus that will be chartered for the trip has a seating capacity of 56 persons, and reservations are to be made in advance. A name is required for each reservation, and those who wish to participate are urged to contact the office as soon as possible since the bus is usually filled to capacity. The bus will depart from the parking lot of St. Paul the Apostle Church in Lafayette. Snacks, bag

lunches, and other refreshments will be provided for the passengers, also at no cost. However, donations will be accepted to help defray the expenses. The trip will allow family members to spend an entire day visiting with loved ones who are incarcerated within Angola State Penitentiary. This includes over 5,100 inmates, more than half of whom are serving life sentences. Some of those who have benefitted from these trips in the past include a mother and her children, who cannot afford the gas to visit their husband/father on their own. To reserve a seat on the December 18 trip, please contact the Office of Justice & Peace at (337) 261-5545 as soon as possible.

LETTERS Letters to the editor policy: Letters to the Editor should be pertinent to articles that have appeared in the Acadiana Catholic or to events and issues that are taking place in the Diocese of Lafayette. We seek to provide a balanced representation of opinions. Opinions expressed by our readers do not necessarily reflect the position of this newspaper, its staff or publisher. Readers may agree or disagree with its content. We reserve the right to edit for length or clarity and exclude material deemed offensive or inappropriate for this publication. We also reserve the right to exclude material that includes personal attacks on others. Anonymous letters can not be published. Dear Editor: I am writing to let you know how much my husband and I are enjoying our subscription to the Acadiana Catholic. We have always liked the paper but we find it has become even more appealing in its content. The present format of the paper is very reader friendly. The articles with the school and church news, the personal interest articles about Catholics who have overcome difficulties because of their faith and the local happenings mixed with the articles and photos of the past are all such a wonderful combination. Thank you for making the paper feel so personal. We love it. Sincerely, Gene and Mary Lanclos

Dear Editor: For some years now I have worked with Pat Breaux to sponsor the “Inspirational Page” and the “Children’s News” in the Acadiana Catholic. Of all the projects of which I have been involved in the community, these two programs above all else have resulted in more “thank yous” from family and friends. Thank you for allowing us to support your publication. Sincerely, John A. Hendry, DDS Lafayette

Justice groups start work on ‘common good’ platform for 2012 election WASHINGTON (CNS) With the first votes of the presidential primary season set for Jan. 3 at the Iowa caucuses, Catholic social justice organizations are asking local communities to help draft platforms rooted in church teaching that they hope will enter the discussion on the campaign trail next fall. Called Election 2012: Catholics Vote for the Common Good, the effort is taking place nationwide, but is specifically targeting six states with significant Catholic populations.

Acadiana Catholic

Page 18 December 2011

Stuller Family Foundation presents 10K grant to DesOrmeaux Foundation LAFAYETTE Brenda DesOrmeaux, president of the DesOrmeaux Foundation, Inc., was presented a check for $10,000 by the Stuller Family Foundation recently. Presenting the grant was Stuller representative Scott Brazda. The grant will be used for the DesOrmeaux Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ongoing mission of providing safe housing and support for clients at the St. Marguerite dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Youville Home. For further information about the DesOrmeaux Foundation, please go to www.desormeauxfoundation.com

Father Hampton Davis to speak at Holy Spirit praise rally LAFAYETTE Father Hampton Davis, pastor of Our Lady Queen of Peace in Lafayette will be the speaker,

celebrant and homilist at the annual Lafayette Diocese Catholic Charismatic Renewal Holy Spirit praise rally. The 2012 event will be held on Saturday, January 14th, in Fusilier Hall on the second floor of Immaculata Center in Lafayette. The theme for the day is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rejoice in His Lightâ&#x20AC;? Father Davis is a noted retreat master, conference speaker, and Father Hampton Davis has taught in the seminary for several years. The praise rally will begin with registration and praise by music ministry State of Grace at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, followed by welcome and Mass celebrated by Father Davis at 10:15. After Mass, Father Davis will encourage and instruct the participants on the theme of Rejoice in His Light. A long lunch break will be held at approximately noon to allow for off-site eating. Re-gathering will be at about

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1:45 p.m. for praise at 2:00 p.m., followed by another session until 3:00 p.m.

After Mass, Father Davis will encourage and instruct the participants on the theme of Rejoice in His Light. After a short break there will be a healing service with prayer ministry and possibly exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

until 4:00 p.m. Praise and then listening and discerning the prophetic word of the Lord will follow. Closing prayer and praise is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend the Holy Spirit praise rally, especially the young adult generation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 18 to 40 years of age. No specific ministry for children is planned, but they are welcome. Liquid refreshments will be provided, but there will be no on-site concessions. Registration for this event is $5 for the day.

Our Lady of Fatima Donation Drive

Our Lady of Fatima School and Church partnered to conduct a donation drive for the charities of choice. Tables were set up in Chance Hall to receive donations for â&#x20AC;&#x153;Change for Miles,â&#x20AC;? Coats for Kids, United Blood Services, VITA, The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shelter, Acadiana Shelter for Girls, Maison de Mere, Desormeaux Foundation and the Family Promise. These gifts will go a long way in helping the community. Photo submitted by Our Lady of Fatima School

Sister Margaret Mweshi is an â&#x20AC;&#x153;angelâ&#x20AC;? to some 40 children in northern Zambia â&#x20AC;&#x201D; revealing to each one, every day, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good Newsâ&#x20AC;? of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love, just like the angel did that first Christmas. Sister Margaret runs a home where these little ones receive treatment and physical therapy for their disabilities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know that I have to do more than provide medical help,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have to be a mother to them.â&#x20AC;? This Christmas, will you be an â&#x20AC;&#x153;angelâ&#x20AC;? for the Missions? Will you support the work and witness of local Sisters through the Society for the Propagation of the Faith?

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Acadiana Catholic

“BE FIRE!” By Graham N. Smith

Did the shepherds k n o w ? When the angel of the Lord appeared in the cold darkness of that first Christmas morning and declared, “Today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord,” did they have any idea what that really meant? The angel told the shepherds not to be afraid, because this was “good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Lk. 2:10-11). When the news of the savior’s birth had been announced and they had been told where to find Him, the sky filled with angels praising God and proclaiming peace. The shepherds realized this had come from the Lord and set out immediately to find the newborn baby, but did they have a clue as to who this tiny kid really was? I think they did. Times were tough for the Israelites. They’d been conquered by Rome, a ruthless empire if ever there was one. There was a “king”, Herod the Great, but he was no more than a puppet. The glory days of Israel were long past. But God had made a lot of promises to His people about the One who would come to set things right. Even as He was putting Adam and Eve out of Eden for their disobedience, He warned the serpent that Eve’s offspring would “crush his head” while the serpent struck at His heel (Gen. 3:15, NIV.) That’s the first Messianic prophecy. God was already working on how to restore the fellowship that had been broken by sin. He spoke through Isaiah of a son to be born of a virgin (Is. 7:14) who would be Prince of Peace, and whose domain would be vast and forever peaceful (Is. 9:5-6). His coming would smash the rod of the taskmaster (Is. 9:3). He would heal the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to captives, and declare a day of

December 2011 Page 19 vindication from the Lord (Is. 61:1-2). He would bring them salvation. The Old Testament is filled with God saying, “Hang on! He’s coming!” Isaiah gave voice to the deep longing of God’s people for the restoration of His favor: “Why do you let us wander, O Lord, from your ways, and harden our hearts so that we fear you not? Return for the sake of your servants, the tribes of your heritage . . . Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down . . .” (Is. 63:17, 19). All of Israel’s hopes in the goodness and mercy of God focused on the Messiah. That He would come one day was widely expected. When Andrew met Jesus, he told his brother Simon, “We have found the Messiah.” (Jn. 1:41). Even the Samaritan woman at the well knew the Messiah was coming (Jn. 4:25). Reconciliation is God’s fundamental nature. “Come now, let us set things right,” He beckons. “Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow” (Is. 1:18). He forgives sin for His own sake, not ours (Is. 43:25). When I think about the angel of the Lord’s proclamation to the shepherds, that idea leaps out at me. The “good news” of that first Christmas morning isn’t about us; it’s about God and us and the love that He wants to share, now and forever. Somewhere, in the midst of the “Ho-ho-ho’s” from TV Santas and “black Friday” sales that seem to start before Thanksgiving has ended, that “good news” has gotten lost. Now, it’s all about what we can buy to put under the tree, not about the newborn babe who would one day hang on the “tree”, the cross, to redeem us in the greatest exercise of love ever. I can’t save myself, not anymore than the Israelites could. I’ve never known anyone who could. So, I wouldn’t have been surprised if right before the angel appeared, one or two of those shepherds might have been gazing skyward, lost in hope. Go outside on a clear December night and you might find me there, too. I need my savior. We all do.

Pro-life New Jersey nurses sue hospital over new policy on abortions

December Birthdays

Father Thomas Madden, S.J. Dec. 1

WASHINGTON (CNS) Confronted with what one called “a choice between our faith and our jobs,” 12 nurses are suing University Hospital in Newark, N.J., over a new policy requiring them to care for patients before and after abortions, even if they have religious or moral objections to abortion. The hospital, part of the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, said that because “no nurse is compelled to have direct involvement in, and/or attendance in the room at the time of,” an abortion, its policy does not violate state or federal conscience protection laws. U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares issued a temporary restraining order Nov. 3 directing the hospital not to compel adherence to the new policy until after the case comes before his court Dec. 5. At a Nov. 14 news conference outside the hospital in Newark, Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., joined the nurses and their attorneys in criticizing the new policy, which was announced in September.

Father Kenneth Mayne Dec. 2 Father Clinton Sensat Dec. 5 Father Paul Broussard Dec. 6 Father Jude Obiechina Dec. 8 Deacon Douglas Melancon Dec. 12 Father Godwin Nzeh, C.M.F. Dec. 12 Father J. Thomas Finley Dec. 14 Father Jason Mouton Dec. 17 Father Jules Arceneaux Dec. 18 Deacon John W. Miller Dec. 19 Deacon Thomas Sommers Dec. 19 Father Paul Patin, S.J. Dec. 20 Father Bernard M. Lebiedz, O.S.B. Dec. 22 Deacon Anthony Ozene Dec. 22 Father Jude W. Thierry Dec. 22 Father Francis Butler, S.S.J. Dec. 23 Father Willard Dugas Dec. 23 Father Louis Richard Dec. 25 Father Stephen C. Ugwu Dec. 26 Deacon Kenneth Soignier Dec. 27 JANUARY, 2012 Deacon Charles Ortego Jan. 2 Deacon Harris Soileau Jan. 4 Father Joseph Stemmann Jan. 4 Father Jerome Neyrey, SJ Jan. 5 Father Paul Onuegbe Jan. 5 Deacon Michael Yenik Jan. 6 Deacon Francis D. Boudreaux Jan. 7 Father Charles Nicholas Trahan Jan. 7 Father Richard Kalinowski, SVD Jan. 8 Father Martin Leonards Jan. 8 Father Mikel Polson Jan. 8

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Acadiana Catholic

Page 20 December 2011

Seminarians instituted into ministries

Matthew Barzare,left, and Michael DeBlanc, right, were instituted as acolytes by Bishop Shelton Fabre, center, of New Orleans.

Receiving the ministry of reader was Davis. Barzare is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Barzare and is sponsored by St. Anthony Church in Eunice. DeBlanc is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael DeBlanc, Sr., and is sponsored by St. Joseph Church, Parks. Davis is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse E. Davis and is sponsored by Our Lady of Wisdom Church, Lafayette.

Vocation Mass is Jan. 8

Jesse Davis III, left, is pictured with Bishop Fabre in New Orleans’ St. Rita Church.

NEW ORLEANS Seminarians Matthew Barzare, Michael DeBlanc and Jesse Davis III were recently instituted into the ministries of acolyte and reader at St. Rita Church in New Orleans by Auxiliary Bishop Shelton Fabre of New Orleans. Receiving the ministry of acolyte were Barzare and DeBlanc.

LAFAYETTE The annual Mass for vocations will be offered by Bishop Michael Jarrell at the 9:00 a.m. Mass on Sunday, January 8, 2012 in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. Seminarians and their parents are expected to be in attendance. Members of the Serra Club and others interested in vocations to the priesthood are especially welcome to join in this special Mass which is celebrated by the bishop. This is an annual Mass offered before the seminarians return to the seminary to resume their academic studies.

Incomplete Seminary Burses Your Contributions Help Educate Future Priests DUSTIN DOUGHT is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Davie Dought. He is in his Third Theology year at Theological College, Washington, D.C. He is sponsored by St. Genevieve Church, Lafayette.

BRO. NICHOLAS DUPRE, the son of Mr. Joseph Dupre and Mrs. Charlotte Davis, is in his Novitiate at the Community of Jesus Crucified. He is sponsored by Our Lady of Wisdom Church, Lafayette. SAM FONTANA, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Fontana is in his Second Theology year at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. He is sponsored by St. Pius X, Lafayette.

TAJ GLODD is the son of Mrs. Zelma Kennerson Glodd and the late Samuel Thomas, Sr., He is in his Second Theology year at Sacred Heart School of Theology, Hales Corner, Wis. and is sponsored by St. Theresa Church, Crowley. BRIAN HARRINGTON, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Harrington, is in Third Theology at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. He is sponsored by the Cathedral of St. John, Lafayette.

Photos by Paul Kieu

219 Msgr. Wm. J. Teurlings Burse #1 13,417.00 236 John E. Lee Jr. Burse 9,324.60 239 St. Joseph Burse 9,076.48 242 Lee C. Lavergne Burse 7,079.73 244 Rev. Julian Van Exem Burse #2 12,524.06 248 Msgr. Alphonsus Martel Burse 11,000.00 253 Serra Club Burse 15,534.49 254 Rusty Randol Burse 1,742.76 260 St. Theresa Burse #2 5,697.46 266 Paul and Mary Karre Burse 2,105.00 268 M/M Willie Fournet Burse #2 570.65 271 Msgr. Joseph Van Brero Burse 710.00 272 Msgr. P. Alexandre Borel Burse 1,625.00 274 Msgr. Emery Labbe Burse 6,310.00 278 Msgr. Daniel Bernard Burse 3,674.64 281 Rev. Harry Van Tiel Family Burse 3,969.00 283 Noemie L. Petitijean Burse 1,000.00 284 Msgr. Daniel Habetz Burse 6,590.00 286 P.J. Reiners Burse #2 9,500.00 288 Rev. Oscar Drapeau Burse 2,000.00 290 Rev. P.G.J. Kemps Burse 1,000.00 291 Lucille M. Griffin Memorial Burse 5,000.00 292 Anonymous Burse 10,470.00 293 Msgr. Fernand Gouaux Burse 4,770.00 294 Robert A. Frey Memorial Burse 7,360.00 297 “A Priest” Burse #2 7,400.00 308 Harold/Ruby Moreau Family Memorial Burse 5,000.00 309 Libby Holcombre Memorial Burse 2,000.00 318 Msgr. Marcel Murie 5,260.00 319 Rev. Marcel & Alfred Gaudet #5 1,942.80 322 Rev. Jean Fidele Paradis #2 5,000.00 323 Charlene Richard 3,030.00 326 Fr. Raphael Gauthier #2 3,757.17 327 Msgr. Albert Bacque #2 325.00 330 Rev. Verbis Lafleur #3 7,900.00 332 Ben & Louisa Larriviere #2 3,750.00 337 Colonel, Chaplain Kenneth A. Bienvenu, USAF, Burse #2 14,814.99 340 Rev. James Doiron 2,272.17 346 Msgr. Alexander O. Sigur Memorial 2,250.00 348 Rev. J. Wilson Matt & Mire Families 450.00 351 Rev. Alcide Sonnier Burse #2 11,300.00 352 St. Edmond Church Parish (In memory of Frs. Dowling & Murray, SM) 9,000.00 354 Catholic Daughters #3 10,200.63 355 Gabriel Lucas Seminary Memorial Fund (Morse) 15,194.21 356 Mrs. Louise L. White Memorial Fund 10,110.00 358 Therese Esteves #5 7,516.49 359 St. Peter’s Parish – New Iberia 10,422.35 363 Ramona Crosby Bennerfield Burse 2,155.52 364 St. Jude Burse #2 8,030.00 366 A. Otis and Etta B. Hebert Memorial Burse 5,000.00 367 Bishop Edward J. O’Donnell Burse 3,545.00 368 Rev. J.C. Speyrer Burse 10,000.00 370 Msgr. C. Burton Mouton Burse 10,700.00 375 Msgr. Charles Marin 100.00 376 Bishop Jeanmard Burse 5,464.00 377 Marie Louise Franques Kenneth N. LaCaze Burse 3,000.00 378 Bishop Gerard L. Frey Memorial Burse 12,522.00 379 Rev. Moise Hebert #2 3,403.61 380 Lay Honorees #7 3,974.50 381 In memory of Mrs. Dorphi Duhon 2,181.50 382 Rev. Raymond Robitaille #2 11,000 383 James Kerney Bourque Memorial Burse 3,930.00 384 Bishop Schexnayder Mem. Vurse #3 940.19 385 Rev. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse 3,200.00 386 Coignard/Gremillion Burse #2 1,500.00 387 In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Scranton Mouton 3,000.00

253 330 330 376 380 385

NOVEMBER DONORS Serra Club t00.00 Carroll/Richard Lafleur 100.00 Carroll/Tichard Lafleur 100.00 Halina Koziell 1,000.00 Lay Honorees 774.00 Dr. George and Sandra Bakowski Foundation 200.00

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December 2011 Page 21

Acadiana Catholic

Page 22 December 2011

Father Seay offers challenge at November “Food for the Journey” By Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE An information challenge to the audience at the November 1 Food for the Journey was offered by Father Robert Seay, O.F.M., pastor of St. Paul’s Church here. After distributing a list of religious orders, identified only by initials, Father Seay asked those present to see how many they could give full identification to. There were many familiar ones like Father Seay’s community, O.F.M., Order of Friars Minor, or S.J., Society of Jesus, Jesuits; or O.Carm., Order of Carmel, Sisters of Mount Carmel. But there were many unfamiliar ones, O.S.C.O., Cistercians, better known as Trappists, and O.S.A, Augustinian Friars. Categories of monastic orders like the Camaldolese, Carthusians, Paulists, Trappists and Cistercians. And more familiar ones like the Josephites, Divine Word Missionaries, Dominicans, Trinitarians, Servites. There were the several different Franciscans, Conventual, Ca-

puchin and Third Order Regular. Father Seay noted these were “only the tip of the iceberg,” citing different rites, Eastern, Armenian, Byzantine, Maronite, Coptic, and so on. “The Church has extensive historical, cultural and spiritual elements,” he pointed out. After giving the audience a few minutes to fill out the papers, prizes were awarded to Claudette Sibille and Kathleen Toups for having more than five or more correct, and to three others who had more than three. Father Seay spoke briefly about his own vocation to the Franciscan order and demonstrated it literally. He arrived in street clothes, but carried his brown Franciscan habit and donned it, explaining the significance of the cowl (hood) and cincture (belt of rope) worn about the waist. He was attracted to the Franciscans by the example of St. Francis of Assisi, who loved God and nature and was a person of peace. “With the spiritual power we have we can change the world,”

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Father Seay said. A native of Lima, Ohio, Father Seay was ordained for the Franciscans in 1976 and has had pastoral assignments in Tennessee, Boston, New York, New Jersey, Houma, La., and New Orleans where he was chaplain to the New Orleans Saints. He has been pastor of St. Paul’s in Lafayette since 2000, is a member of the

diocesan school board and Chancellor of Holy Family School. Introducing Father Seay was Mary Bergeron, executive assistant to Father Thomas James, S.V.D., regional vicar of the Central Region which sponsors Food for the Journey. Mrs. Bergeron announced Father Jerry Mesley will be the December 6 speaker for Food for the Journey.

Pictured above, from the left are: Father Thomas James, SVD, VE, episcopal vicar for the Central Region of the diocese; Father Robert Seay, OFM, pastor of St. Paul Church in Lafayette and guest speaker for the November “Food for the Journey” speakers’ series and Mrs. Mary Bergeron, executive assistant to Father James. Father Seay spoke on the varied religious orders within the Catholic Church and their charisms.

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 23

Keeping Christ in Christmas: family ideas to help everyone focus on the real reason for the season by Stephanie R. Martin Ready or not, the holiday season is here. Thanksgiving has just passed, and it won’t be much longer now before the dawn of Christmas day. Most of us are already in the full throes of shopping and decorating, but let’s not cheat ourselves out of the real reason we’re celebrating. Let’s remember to incorporate love and praise of Jesus Christ into all our activities. Need some ideas to help you along? Take a lesson from the bible’s Christmas story and simply follow the star. . . . Get ready as a family! First and foremost, think of the Holy Family--Joseph, Mary, and Jesus--and keep them in mind as your role models for the season. Do as much as you can as a family, whether that means going to Sunday Mass or going to the mall together. Appreciate the Advent season. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, how often does the thought cross your mind that you’ll never be prepared in time? Whenever it does, follow it with the thought that this is exactly why the Church celebrates the Advent season--to help us prepare. Granted, Advent traditions won’t help you with cooking or cleaning or shopping, but they can help you refresh your spiritual perspective and

Children can enjoy the rituals of Advent by making an Advent paper chain. After completing the chain, they can remove one link each day to help them count down to Christmas. Photo by Kelley Chapman

File photo

reset your priorities. Refer to your local church bulletins, which will undoubtedly contain announcements about special activities such as Advent parish missions and/or sacramental services. Worried that the kids are too young for those things? Plan some more age-appropriate Advent activities that you can do in your own home. With the First and Second Sundays of Advent already passed, you may feel it’s too late to bring home the ritual of the Advent wreath, but you can still talk about it. Encourage them to share what they may have learned about the tradition in their catechism classes, or simply what they have observed about the wreath they’ve been seeing in church for the last couple of Sundays. Invite them to ask questions-even the youngest child is often curious about the colors of the candles, for instance--and sit down together to look up the answers. Also, if your family doesn’t have an Advent wreath, the kids can still make an Advent paper chain to help them count down the remaining days until Christmas.

Remember to give. There’s no doubt about it; gifts are a crucial part of the Christmas celebration. The birth of Jesus Christ was a gift from God for the salvation of the world. For that ultimate generosity, you and your family can express your gratitude through generosity of your own. Give to those who are less fortunate. Church parishes, soup kitchens, and shelters often sponsor food drives around this time of year in order to make holiday baskets for those in need. On your next

trip to the grocery store, ask family members to help you pick up some extra items to donate for this cause. For information on donating food items to local charitable organizations, please contact Lafayette Catholic Service Centers at (337) 235-4972. By the same token, as your family goes out to buy Christmas presents for one another, encourage everyone to pick up an extra gift to donate to the needy. Lots of stores will have donation bins set up for this very purpose, and many church parishes will also have a “giving tree” incorporated into their decorations; instead of ornaments, the tree is adorned with special tags that parishioners may remove from the tree. Each tag represents a Christmas gift for an anonymous needy person; participants take a tag, purchase the gift, and return it to the parish with the tag attached so that it can be distributed accordingly. Here in the Lafayette Diocese, families and individuals may also donate children’s gifts to the “Child Smile” project which is sponsored by he Office of Justice & Peace. Each year, the office collects donated gifts to distribute at a special Christmas party continued on page 26

Remember to give to those in need by participating in programs such as the Office of Justice & Peace’s “Child Smile” project, which provides Christmas gifts to children whose parents are incarcerated. The gifts are distributed by Santa at a special Christmas party for the children. Photo provided by the Office of Justice & Peace

Acadiana Catholic

Page 24 December 2011

The traditional Nativity Scene: a timeless t

The Infant Jesus

by Stephanie R. Martin This is the time of year when households everywhere are decorating for Christmas, and oftentimes those decorations include a Nativity Scene. However, the Nativity is so much more than a pretty collection of figurines. Its origin can be traced back to the year 1223, when St. Francis of Assisi organized a “living” Nativity (using live animals and people) in a small town in Italy. It is said that St. Francis was inspired with this creation out of his desire to truly “humanize” and bring Scripture to life for ordinary people, many of whom could neither read nor appreciate the written word. While “living” depictions of the Nativity continue to be popular even today, over time the scene has also segued into other artistic mediums that are easier and more permanent to display-icons and paintings, and figures made out of wax, ivory, ceramic, or other such materials. No

The Virgin Mary

matter how the pieces are composed, however, every character in the traditional Nativity scene is firmly rooted in Scripture. Of course, there is no better place to start than with the scene’s focal point, the child Jesus. Matthew 1:23 announces: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” This child will grow up to be the salvation of all mankind, but in this scene Jesus is a mere newborn babe resting on a bed of straw in the middle of a manger, and He is not alone. Naturally, His mother Mary is present; Scripture stresses that she is still

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child him Emmanual. .

Joseph

a virgin, and it is only through her faithful obedience as “the handmaid of the Lord” (Luke 1:38) that the Holy Spirit has come upon her to conceive Jesus Christ. Also present is Joseph, because Mary is his betrothed. According to the Gospel of Matthew, Joseph intended to divorce Mary quietly after “she was found with child through the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:18). He did not want to shame her under the circumstances, but neither did he fully understand them until an angel appeared in a dream to instruct him in his role. Thus, he welcomed Mary into his home and is now traditionally recognized as the foster father of Jesus Christ. It is essentially because of Joseph that the Nativity develops its surrounding scene. The

second chapter in the Gospel of Luke explains that it was because Joseph belongs to the house and family of David that he and

The Ox and the Ass

Mary traveled to the town of Bethlehem in accordance with the decree of Caesar Augustus (Luke 2:1-4). Upon their arrival, there is no other place available to them except a simple manger. Though these accommodations are meager, Christ’s birth does not go unheralded by a number of other significant characters. For instance, the Holy Family shares their space in the manger with many animals, often represented in the Nativity scene by the ox and the ass. These specific identities are in reference to another passage from Scripture

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 25

tribute to the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ

d and bear a son, and they shall name .” (Matthew 1:23)

you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:11-12) Upon hearing these words, the shepherds set out in search of the child, and found things to be exactly as the angel had described to them. Thus, the representation of their presence in the Nativity scene further confirms that Jesus Christ was born to be the Savior of the world. The three Magi (or Wise Men) are also usually present in the Nativity scene, although Scripture actually implies that they arrived at a slightly later date. These men traveled from the

The Shepherd

that reads, “An ox knows its owner, and an ass, its master’s manger” (Isaiah 1:3). Lambs are also often depicted among the animals in the Nativity scene, perhaps as a reminder that the Christ Child is the ultimate sacrificial lamb for mankind. Alongside the lambs, the shepherd is another popular figure in the Nativity. The Gospel of Luke tells that after Christ’s birth, an angel appeared to the shepherds who were watching over their flocks nearby. The angel told them: “For today in the

city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign for

The Lambs

East in search of the child king whose birth was marked by the rising of a star which they followed all the way to Bethlehem (Matthew 2:2). The Magi bestowed upon Jesus the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The gold obviously represents extreme value, and signifies that the Magi did indeed believe that Jesus Christ was King of kings. Frankincense was a commonly used incense of the time, which people often burned as they prayed; this gift symbolically recognizes the child Jesus as the Priest of His people. The gift of myrrh, which was used as an embalming material, symbolizes the Magi’s belief that Jesus was born in order to die for the salvation of the world. The Magi were nearly tricked by King Herod--who out of selfish fear wished to kill the child

The Magi

Jesus–into revealing the infant’s location. However, after visiting the child and paying him homage, the Magi heeded a warning they received in a dream not to return to Herod and report their findings. Lastly, many Nativity scenes will incorporate an angel--not necessarily inside the manger with the other characters, but hovering above it. To many, this figure represents the ArchangelGabriel, often thought of as the “messenger angel.” The Gospel of Luke specifically names Gabriel as the angel that God sent to deliver the message of Jesus’ birth to the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:26). Largely because of this, it is also assumed that Gabriel was the angel who appeared in Joseph’s dream and instructed him to take Mary into his home (Matthew 1:20) and give the name Jesus to the child she would bear. The Archangel Gabriel is also believed to be the angel who appeared to the shepherds to proclaim the good news of the Savior’s birth, and in the dream that warned the Magi not to report back to Herod.

The Angel

Acadiana Catholic

Page 26 December 2011 continued from page 23 for children with parents who are currently incarcerated. For further details regarding the “Child Smile” project, please contact the office at (337) 2615545. While giving to those in need, take some time as a family to tell and reflect on the story of St. Nicholas, the Roman Catholic bishop credited by many to be the “real” Santa Claus. St. Nicholas spent his life and his personal inheritance in serving the needy people of his time. His feast day is still celebrated by the Catholic Church on December 6 of each year. Enhance your decorations with prayer. Many households have a Nativity set to display during the Christmas season, but how often do we stop to consider the scene as more than just another pretty decoration? Setting up the display together as a family is another excellent way to keep everyone focused on the birth of Jesus. Consider the option of setting up the Nativity in stages rather than all at once; that way, you and your family can take a little time to discuss and reflect on the developing scene. Start with the manger, and slowly add in the characters according to the story of the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:1-20). Some families might even find it exciting to anticipate the birth of Jesus by preparing his bed. Every evening, family members can gather around the Nativity, and each one can share a good deed which they performed in the spirit of Christmas that day. After telling his or her deed, the family member can place a single piece of straw into the waiting crib. By Christmas morning, the baby Jesus will have a soft bed made of the family’s “good deeds” on which to rest his head. Families can also come together to bless their household Nativity scenes, perhaps as part of their Christmas Eve festivities. Blessing of a Christmas Manger or Nativity Scene provides a simple guide for those who wish to do so. Of course, the Nativity scene

isn’t the only way to honor Jesus Christ in our Christmastime decor. When decorating the family Christmas tree, encourage the children to come up with homemade ornaments such as paper angels and other biblical characters. For a special blessing for the Christmas tree, please visit www.usccb. org/prayer-and-worship/blessings/objects/. Take some time to relax and be enter-

tained. That’s right; everyone deserves a break and a special treat once in a while. During the holidays, we are so often involved in a whirlwind of activities that we forget to actually enjoy them. Again, refer to your church bulletins and community calendars for information on local Christmas programs. Take the family out to a Christmas play or concert, or go for an evening drive to enjoy the neighborhood lights

Blessing of a Christmas Manger or Nativity Scene Leader: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Our help is in the name of the Lord. . . .

R./

Who made heaven and earth.

Either the leader or another of those present may read a text of Sacred Scripture, such as Luke 2:1-8 or Isaiah 7:10-15. Reader: The Gosepl of the Lord. R./ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Leader: God of every nation and people, from the very beginning of creation you have made manifest your love: when our need for a Savior was great you sent your Son to be born of the Virgin Mary. To our lives he brings joy and peace, justice, mercy, and love. Lord, bless all who look upon this manger, may it remind us of the humble birth of Jesus, and raise our thoughts to him, who is God-with-us and Savior of all, and who lives and reigns forever and ever. R./ Amen. From USCCB Publishing’s Catholic Household Blessings & Prayers

and decorations while listening to some classic Christmas hymns on the stereo. Share your faith and goodwill with others. The Christmas season is a time of such generosity, but sometimes we forget that a lack of material things isn’t the only way someone might be less fortunate. There are those who, despite being financially secure, simply do not have family and loved ones with whom to share the holidays. There are elderly people living in nursing homes whose remaining relatives may be too few and far between to visit them on a regular basis. If you know of someone who is alone at this time of the year, invite them to join your family for Sunday dinner or a special holiday activity. If there are elderly or homebound people in your neighborhood, get your family involved in baking up a batch of Christmas goodies and dropping by for a visit to deliver them. You could even rally together with other families to arrange a special visit to a local nursing home. To prepare for it, ask the children to create their own Christmas program they can perform for the residents, whether it’s a Nativity play or simply singing some Christmas carols. The adults can contribute by putting together gift boxes with basic toiletries, rosaries or other religious items, and other simple essentials the residents might need. A call to the nursing home you wish to visit can help you plan your visit most effectively. Lastly--but perhaps most importantly--do not overlook those who need you to share your faith because they are in doubt of their own. Each year, the Lafayette Diocese strongly advocates the “Come Home for Christmas” campaign to encourage inactive Catholics to return to church. In addition to specially designed billboards that are placed throughout Acadiana, the program relies on active Catholics to invite their brothers and sisters to attend Mass with them, especially on Christmas day. For further information on the Lafayette Diocese’s 2011 “Come Home for Christmas” campaign, please refer to the related article on page 16 of this edition.

Acadiana Catholic

Deacon formation classes to begin in February 2012: deadline approaching LAFAYETTE In August, the Acadiana Catholic announced that the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of the Permanent Diaconate would begin its next diaconate formation program in February 2012. “All men who are potentially interested in participating are reminded that they must seek the approval of their local pastors before they are able to proceed with the process,” advised Deacon Jim Kincel, Director of the Permanent Diaconate. “Therefore, now is the time that a man should meet with his pastor and discuss his interest in the program if he intends to proceed to the inquiry phase in February of next year.” It is only after a man has sought this approval from his pastor that he should contact the Office of the Permanent Diaconate to schedule a meeting with Deacon Kincel. Men who are interested in the diaconate formation program are also encouraged to visit the diocesan website at www.diolaf.org. The “Diaconate” section (located under the OFFICES tab of the main page) can provide much more in-depth information into the overall process. Additional questions may also be directed to Deacon Jim Kincel, Director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate; he may be contacted by telephone at (337) 735-9433 or email at jkincel@diolaf.org.

December 2011 Page 27

Addressing US bishops, pope defends church efforts on sex abuse VATICAN CITY (CNS) In a speech to U.S. bishops, Pope Benedict XVI defended the church’s “honest efforts” to confront the priestly sex abuse scandal with transparency, and said its actions could help the rest of society respond to the problem. While the church is rightly held to high standards, all other institutions should be held to the same standards as they address the causes, extent and consequences of sexual abuse, which has become a “scourge” at every level of society, the pope said Nov. 26. On wider issues, including the institution of marriage, the pope encouraged the bishops to speak out “humbly yet insistently in defense of moral truth.” Responding to the challenges of a secularized culture will first require the “reevangelization” of the church’s own members, he said. The pope made the remarks in a speech to bishops from the state of New York, who were in Rome for their “ad limina” visits. The group was led by Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, who as president of the U.S. bishops’ conference has spoken of the need to restore the church’s credibility and its evangelizing capacity. The pope began his talk by recalling his 2008 visit to the United States, which he said was aimed at encouraging Catholics in the wake of the sex abuse crisis.

2011 ACSAA Leadership Award Recipients

Mount Carmel Elementary in Abbeville is pleased to announce that two of its students, Calvin LeMair (left) and Dominick Nunez (right), are recipients of the 2011 Acadiana Christian School Athletic Association Leadership Award. The award is based on qualities of leadership, integrity, sportsmanship, dedication, and athletic contribution. Calvin is a player on Mount Carmel’s 7th/8th grade football team, while Dominick plays for the 5th/6th grade football team. Photo submitted by Mount Carmel Elementary School.

Acadiana Catholic

Page 28 December 2011

“God’s people can wait no longer” provides resonating theme for anti-poverty workshop LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Justice & Peace recently sponsored its 11th Annual Campaign Against Poverty workshop, featuring Tom Costanza as the keynote speaker. Costanza is the Executive Director of the Office of Justice & Peace/Catholic Charities with the Archdiocese of New Orleans. “When you put a face on poverty—when you see more and more people who are losing jobs and homes and are hungry—you have a perspective,” Costanza said as he began his presentation. “How can we call ourselves to foster in everyone personal responsibility and act together with social responsibility and solidarity when addressing poverty? Why don’t we? God’s people can wait no longer!” Costanza addressed several myths that are often related to the thought processes regarding poverty. He countered the argument that “Anyone can get a job if they really want to work” by pointing out that this statement can only be true when the economic climate is good and prospering. In considering another general assumption that “People are homeless because they are too lazy to work,” he stressed that this blanket statement does not account for the large number of homeless people who suffer from mental illnesses; without proper monitoring, these individuals are often hard-pressed to take the necessary medications that are needed to help them secure stable employment and housing. Later in his presentation, Costanza also mentioned the sta-

Poverty in the midst of plenty: Hunger persists in the United States

Participants in the 11th Annual Campaign Against Poverty were encouraged to browse several exhibits during the day’s breaks. Among these exhibits were crafted sale items from the “Work of Human Hands” program. Photo provided by the Office of Justice & Peace

tistics presented in the Census Bureau’s 2010 report on poverty in America. The report confirmed that the poverty rate rose from 14.3% in 2009 to 15.1% in 2010, and that more than 20 million Americans are now living below the government’s poverty threshold, meaning that they are earning less than $6,000 per year. In Louisiana alone, nearly 19% of the state’s population is now considered to be living in poverty. In addition to Costanza’s keynote address, several other speakers shared their insights into what can be done to address these dire poverty issues on the local level. Mary Speyrer, Coordinator of the Homeless Children & Youth Education Program for the Lafayette Parish School System, spoke on “Educating Our Homeless.” Julie LaFleur, Chairperson of the Board with EarthShare Gardens, based her presentation on “De-

veloping Community Programs to Help the Hungry.” Iris Malone, APRN, DNP, FNP-BC and representative of Community Services at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center, gave a PowerPoint presentation focused on “Providing Healthcare for the Working Poor.” Donald Robinson, Director of St. Landry Community Action Agency, spoke on “Housing the Poor.” Larry Van Pelt, a Social Justice Advocate, advised the crowd on “Developing Effective Advocacy Programs.” Bishop Michael Jarrell was also in attendance at the workshop to offer closing remarks and perform the Blessing of the Meal. Special thanks were extended to Our Lady of Victory Church in Loreauville for providing the meal, and to the Tri-Parish Mass Choir for providing music for the day.

NATIONWIDE CELLULAR SYSTEM

PERSONAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEMS

WASHINGTON (CNS) As U.S. nutritionists cringe over the prospect of an overweight nation indulging in a twomonth binge of “season’s eatings” – from Halloween candy to Thanksgiving dinners to Christmas feasts to New Year’s parties – there are millions of Americans who aren’t sure they’re going to get enough to eat this day or the next. The problem is made worse by lack of access to nutritious food, as residents of America’s poorest cities and neighborhoods have little choice but to make do with fast food or convenience stores that don’t stock fresh produce. And even if they were the food-savviest consumers in the country, the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – the new name for food stamps – doesn’t stretch far enough to let each member in the household eat a healthy meal three times a day, seven days a week. Earlier this year, SNAP benefits were cut to pay for a boost in school lunch programs. Hunger isn’t the only issue. A Catholic Charities USA thirdquarter “snapshot” of its member agencies issued Nov. 22 found that 88 percent of the agencies either had to turn away people or maintain a waiting list for at least one service, 64 percent couldn’t meet the need for emergency financial assistance, and 56 percent couldn’t meet requests for utility assistance – including 67 percent in Southern states dogged by heat waves and an extended drought.

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December 2011 Page 29

Annual collection supports 34,000 retired sisters, brothers, priests in religious orders LAFAYETTE The 24th annual collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious will be taken up December 10-11, 2011, in the Diocese of Lafayette. Sponsored by the National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO) in Washington, D.C., the appeal asks Catholics to “Share in the Care” of more than 34,000 women and men religious past age 70. Last year, the Diocese of Lafayette contributed $97,814.51 to this collection. In 2011, the Sisters of the Most Holy Sacrament and the Brothers of the Christian Schools received financial assistance made possible by the national appeal. Additionally, religious who serve or have served in the diocese but whose communities are based elsewhere may also benefit from the Retirement Fund for Religious. “We are continually humbled by the generosity shown this appeal,” said NRRO executive director Sister Janice Bader, a member of the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood of O’Fallon, Missouri. “Since the fund was launched in 1988, Catholics have donated $643 million to assist religious communities in caring for their elder members.” As a result of the 2010 collection, which garnered $26.7 million, the NRRO was able to dis-

tribute $23 million to religious communities to help support the day-to-day care of senior members. An additional $2.7 million was allocated toward initiatives targeted for religious communities with the greatest needs. Ninety-three cents of every dollar aids elderly religious. While the response to the collection is unprecedented, so is the need. In 2010 alone, the total cost of care for women and men religious past age 70 exceeded $1 billion dollars. Nearly 5,000 religious required skilled care. At the same time, however, religious communities strive to minimize costs. In fact, the NRRO reports that the average cost of care for religious past age 70 dropped slightly this year. “The real challenge for many religious communities is a lack of retirement savings,” explained Sister Bader. “Most senior religious worked for years for small stipends. There were no retirement plans.” As religious continue to age, fewer members are able to serve in compensated ministry, leading to a sharp decrease in income. By 2019, National Religious Retirement Office data projects that retired religious will outnumber wage-earning religious by nearly four to one.

For this reason, the NRRO implemented a comprehensive initiative to provide education, consultation and financial assistance to communities that are 50 percent or more underfunded for retirement. Since this program began in 2009, 55 communities, representing some 7,000 women

and men religious, have initiated targeted strategies to address their funding shortfalls. “We’re working to ensure that religious communities can care for their elder members today and tomorrow,” said Sister Bader. For more information, visit www.retiredreligious.org.

Hofinger Conference scheduled for Jan. 13 & 14 NEW ORLEANS The 2012 Johannes Hofinger Conference has been scheduled for January 13 & 14 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Orleans. The theme of this year’s conference will be “Do This In Memory of Me” and the keynote goals are “Believe, Belong, Become.” Registration is now open for the conference, and individuals may obtain further details by visiting online at www.hofingerconference.com Having begun as the Gulf Coast Religious Education Conference in 1978, the Hofinger Conference has been known as an event of quality and excellence. It symbol-

izes the dedication, inspiration, and professionalism not only of its namesake, Johannes Hofinger, but also of religious educators. The conference offers support to professionals and volunteers in all areas of ministry. This twoday event will include 3 keynote speakers and more than 50 breakouts, along with book signings and prayerful, inspirational liturgy. Publishers will also be on hand with exhibits, showcases, and raffle prizes. Conference-goers are encouraged to stay at the hosting Hyatt Regency Hotel, and registration discounts are available for groups of five or more.

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Page 30 December 2011

Sisters of Mt. Carmel celebrate anniversaries NEW ORLEANS 60 years Sister Odile Theriot, O. Carm., born Mildred Marie in New Orleans, is the first of two children of the late Joseph S. Theriot and Odette Marie Jung. She entered Carmel in Sister Odile Theriot 1948 and professed first vows in 1951. Sister attended St. James Major Elementary and Mount Carmel Academy, New Orleans. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from The University of Southwestern Louisiana, Lafayette and a master’s degree in Administration and Supervision from Nicholls State University, Thibodaux. Sister Odile taught at St. Dominic, New Orleans; Mount Carmel High School, New Iberia and Abbeville; E. D. White High School, Thibodaux; and Vermilion Catholic High School, Abbeville. She was principal for 20 years at St. James Major High School, New Orleans. She also served at Mount Carmel Academy as supervisor of plant operations and is currently the coordinator of retired sisters at St. Leo Convent, Lafayette. Sister Fatima Mouton, O. Carm., born Florence Ann in Lafayette, is the tenth of ten children of the late Rene Joseph Mouton and Elise P. Martin. She entered

religious life in 1948 and professed first vows in 1951. Sister attended Mount Carmel Elementary, Lafayette and Mount Carmel A c a d e m y, New Orleans. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Sister Fatima Mouton Elementary Education from Loyola University, New Orleans. Sister Fatima devoted 45 years to Catholic education. She taught at St. Elizabeth, Paincourtville; Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Westwego; St. Augustine and St. Dominic, New Orleans; Mount Carmel Elementary, Abbeville; Rayne Catholic Elementary, Rayne; Cathedral-Carmel, Lafayette, and St. Euphrasia, Granada Hills, Cal. She has also ministered in pastoral care, bereavement ministry and to the homebound in St. Mary Magdalen and St. Theresa Parishes in Abbeville. Currently Sister Fatima is spiritual assistant to Lay Carmelites in the Abbeville and New Iberia area and ministers to the homebound in the Abbeville area. 50 years Sister Jane Frances Remson, O. Carm. is the youngest of four children born to the late Marcel Remson and Josephine Frey Remson of New Orleans. Sister Jane pronounced her first vows in 1961. She is a graduate of Mount Carmel Academy, New Orleans and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Medical Technology from St. Mary’s Dominican College, New Orleans.

Sr. Jane ministered in the United States and the Philippines as a medical technologist where she was a co-founder of the Mount Carmel Mobile Clinic. She served on the Executive Council of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mount Carmel. Sr. Jane established the annual Walk for the Hungry in metropolitan New Orleans. She served on the Advisory Board of Hands Across America, President of the New Orleans Artists Against Hunger & Homelessness, Member of the Mayor’s Task Force on Nutrition in New Orleans, the Governor’s and Mayor’s Task Forces for We l f a r e Reform in Louisiana, H u m a n Services Sister Jane Francis Task Force for Louisiana Legislature, White House Discussion on Welfare Reform in Louisiana, Board of Directors Bread for the World National, U.S. National Committee for World Food Day. She was a delegate to the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Bali, Indonesia and Johannesburg, South Africa and represented the Carmelite NGO at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark and at the Carmelite International Commission for Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation Conference at Fatima, Portugal. Today Sister Jane continues her ministry as the Director of Bread for the World in New Orleans and serves as the main representative

to the United Nations for the Carmelite NGO. Sister Mary Martin, O. Carm. formerly Sister M. Joachim, is the fourth of five children born to the late Charles James Martin and Marcella Anne Erhart of Penns y l v a n i a . She entered Carmel in 1958 and professed first vows in 1961. Sister Mary attended St. Raphael Elementary Sister Mary Martin and Bishop Conaty Memorial High School, Los Angeles, CA. She received a B.S. degree in Elementary Education from Dominican College, New Orleans; M.Ed. degree from Loyola University, New Orleans, in Guidance and Counseling with certification in Elementary Administration and Supervision; and an M.A. degree in Theology from St. Michael’s College, Colchester, VT. Sister taught at St. Dominic, where she was principal from 1971-1981, St. Louis King of France and St. James Major, New Orleans, Mount Carmel Junior High, New Iberia. She was principal and teacher at St. Euphrasia, Granada Hills, CA and Rayne Catholic Elementary, Rayne, LA. She was coordinator of retired sisters at the Motherhouse in 2002 and began working at the Lay Carmelite Office in Darien, Illinois in 2003 as Assistant to the Director of Lay Carmelites. Currently Sister Mary is Provincial Coordinator to the Lay Carmelites Most Pure Heart of Mary Province.

Penn State crisis shows sex abuse pervasive in US society, many say LEVITTOWN, Pa. (CNS) The child sexual abuse crisis at Penn State University brings into focus the harsh reality that the problem is pervasive in U.S. society, according to experts in the field and church officials. Former defensive coach Jerry Sandusky has been charged with sexually assaulting eight boys over a 15-year span. Other college officials have been indicted for a failure to respond appropriately to reports that Sandusky was seen engaging in sexual behavior with children recruited through his connection with a children’s charity. The school fired football coach Joe Paterno, who was in his 46th year, and the university president for not doing enough to act on reports of the alleged abuse. Linda L. Dunlap, a psychology professor at Marist College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., said if the 84-year-old Paterno had “just been some coach at some college somewhere,” and not a coach with such a stellar reputation, the Penn State case might have made the local news, but not drawn national attention. Such abuse of children “is not happening more with coaches than with other groups,” Dunlap said; most abusers are family members.

Acadiana Catholic

OBITUARIES

Dr. Ron M. Labbe LAFAYETTE A Mass of Christian Burial for Dr. Ronald M. Labbe 78, was offered in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist here. Dr. Labbe died, November 9 at his home. Celebrant of the Mass was Msgr. Keith J. DeRouen, pastor of Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Opelousas, with Father Thomas Madden, S.J., of the Jesuit Spirituality Center, Grand Coteau, concelebrant. Dr. Labbe was professor emeritus of political science at the University of Lafayette, a member of the Cathedral parish where he was a Eucharistic minister, and member of the Serra Club. A native of St. Martinville, he earned his B.A. in history from SLI, (now ULL), a J.D. from Loyola, and a Ph.D. in political science from Tulane. He practiced law for several years before earning his Ph.D. and joining the ULL faculty in 1969. During his 33 year tenure as a political science professor, he served as head of the department, member of the faculty senate, and member of many academic committees; president and charter member of the Louisiana Political Science association. He was ULLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prelaw advisor, mentoring many students. He also authored scholarly work on the Louisiana judicial system and politics. He is survived by his wife of 43

December 2011 Page 31 years Dr. Dolores Egger Labbe; two children Stephanie Duchamp Labbe of Westerville, Ohio, and John R. Labbe of Evanston, Ill., one brother Harry J. Labbe, Jr.; five grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Harry J. Labbe, Sr. and the former Celine Gary; and one brother. Interment was in Columbus, Ohio.

Thomas W. Mesley MEADVILLE, Pa. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for Thomas William Mesley, 93, of Meadville by his son, Father Jeri Mesley of the Diocese of Lafayette. Thomas served in Europe as a tech sergeant with the 26th Infantry Division during World War II. He was awarded the American Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Service Medal and four Bronze Stars. He was honorably discharged in October 1945. After returning home from the war, Thomas went to work for the Erie Lackawanna Railroad, Kebort Construction, Wentworth Ford, Carpenter Packaging in Townville and went on to retire from Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Products Company as an accountant in 1988. He is survived by five children, Father Jeri Mesley of St. Anthony Church, Eunice, Gene Mesley and his wife, Kathy, of Vero Beach, Rick Mesley and his wife, Vicki,

of Paoli, Rita Mesley of Erie, and Dan Mesley and his wife, Lana, of Meadville; 12 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, Mark, Jefferson, Emma, Alexandra, Samuel, Ava, Benjamin, Andrew, Maysie, Katherine and Matthew; a brother, Frank Mesley; and a sister, Lil Burke. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy; two brothers, John and Leo Mesley; and a sister, Helen Keefe.

Eldridge Mouton LAFAYETTE A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at St. Anne Catholic Church in Youngsville for Eldridge Mouton, 82, who died November 29 in a local hospital. A Wake Service was held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass, with a Rosary recited at 10:15 a.m. Mr. Mouton was the father of Father Jason Mouton, pastor of St. Anne Church who was main celebrant of the Mass. David Funeral Home of Youngsville was in charge of funeral arrangements.

Give a gift subscription to the Acadiana Catholic for Christmas (337) 261-5650

Acadiana Catholic

Page 32 December 2011

St. Bernard School Foundation awards mini- grants

coming part of this organization that keeps on giving, please contact Pam Trahan, executive director of the St. Bernard School Foundation. (337) 332-5350.

Spring 2012 Aquinas Institute courses

Pictured above, left to right: Marlene Lorio, development committee member; Ray Latiolais, principal; and Brent Miller-president of the St. Bernard School Foundation board of directors. Photo submitted by St. Bernard School

BREAUX BRIDGE St. Bernard School Foundation recently awarded nearly $15,000. in Msgr. Fruge mini-grants to faculty and staff at St. Bernard School. Every year a percentage of the interest earned through investments is given back to the students through these mini-grants. The mini-grants began in 1992. In 1995, these grants were given the title of Msgr. Edward FrugĂŠ because of a generous gift he left to the Foundation. As the Foundation continues to grow, the return to the school will continue to increase. Much of the technology in the school has been awarded through this and other grant programs. The grants have also played a vital role in providing materials to several of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s departments. The St. Bernard School Foundation was established 29 years ago. For those interested in be-

LAFAYETTE Registration is down to its final days for the Aquinas Institute Spring 2012 courses. Those who are interested in participating either as credit or audit students have until Friday, December 9 to contact the Office of Christian Formation regarding the availability of the courses; if space is still available in the desired course, the office will mail or FAX the application form accordingly. Spring 2012 courses will include PHI 206, THE 341, and THE 280. All Aquinas Institute courses are SACS accredited, and faculty members hold MA degrees or higher in their areas of instruction. PHI 206: History of Philosophy (3 semester hrs) will be offered by Father Neil McNeill on Wednesdays and Fridays from 2:00-3:15 p.m. inside Our Lady of Wisdom Library in Lafayette. Classes will start on January 18, 2012 and conclude on May 11, 2012. The course will entail a survey of significant philosophical thinkers, both Western and Eastern, in the history of philosophy, while providing an introduction to their lives, times, and idea. THE 341: Sacramental Theology (3 semester hrs) will be offered by Father Michael Champagne, cjc

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on Thursdays from 6:00-8:45 p.m. inside Marian Hall of Our Lady of Sorrows Retreat Center in St. Martinville. Classes begin on January 12 and end on May 10. The course will focus on a theological examination of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church, using the teachings of Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the Magisterium to explore how each of the sacraments is a life-giving power that flows forth from the Paschal Mystery of Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s death, Resurrection, and Ascension through his mystical body, the Church. Emphasis will be given to active participation in the mysteries. THE 280: Principles of Moral

Theology (3 semester hrs) will be offered by Amy Stoute on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:003:15 p.m. inside Our Lady of Wisdom Library in Lafayette. Classes start on January 10 and conclude on May 10. The course will present a study of fundamental Catholic moral teaching, based on natural law and the teachings of Scripture and the Church, and outlining a moral theology focused on the Sermon on the Mount and the virtues while addressing contemporary issues in moral thought. For additional information, or to register and pay online, please go to www.diolaf.org/aquinasinstitute.

ASH students to perform in Lafayette Ballet Theatreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Nutcrackerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Nutcracker dancers pictured above are, back row, left to right: Anna Paddock, Hannah Dakin, Hannah Broussard and Ashley Cain. Middle row standing, left and right: Lia Bu and Mary Alice Talbot. Seated, left to right: Caroline Forest, Virginia Rader, Caroline Rader, and Catherine Cain. Not pictured: Elise Blalock, Lauren Leckelt and Kate Kaufman. Photo submitted by Schools of the Sacred Heart

GRAND COTEAU In between reading, writing and studying, 13 of the Academy of Sacred Heartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own spend their time in rehearsals preparing for Lafayette Ballet Theatreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nutcracker.â&#x20AC;? Sacred Heart students Elise Blalock, Hannah Broussard, Lia Bu, Ashley Cain, Catherine Cain, Hannah Dakin, Caroline Forest, Kate Kaufman, Lauren Leckelt, Anna Paddock, Virginia Rader, Caroline Rader, and Mary Alice

Talbot will be performing in various roles in â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nutcrackerâ&#x20AC;? this December. They will be dancing alongside local professional dancers and guest artists from the Pacific Northwest Ballet. Performances will be December 10 at 7:00 p.m. and December 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Heymann Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are available at the Heymann Center and at all Ticketmaster outlets.

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December 2011 Page 33

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Death penalty opponents praise Oregon governor for declaring moratorium PORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) Catholic and other opponents of the death penalty praised Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber for placing a moratorium on the use of the death penalty for the rest of his term. “Those of us who respect the dignity of human life from conception to natural death applaud this decision,” said Portland Archbishop John G. Vlazny. “This is what we have been praying for and asking for,” said Ron Steiner, a member of Queen of Peace Parish in Salem. Kitzhaber announced his decision Nov. 22, saying he regretted allowing two men to be executed during his first time in office in the 1990s. A Democrat, he was out of political life for eight years before being elected again in November 2010. His new term began in January and ends in January 2015. The governor said he is morally opposed to the practice and supports life without parole as the most serious sanction for aggravated murder.

‘Mary in Scripture’ presentation at St. Mary Church

Mass and will be presented by Jennifer Sibille, J.D. and Corey Grimley, J.D. For those who have ever wondered what Catholics believe about the Blessed Virgin Mary and whether any of the Church’s teachings are actually rooted in Scripture, this program should

provide answers. The public is invited to attend and learn about the biblical teachings on Mary, including topics such as Mary, the New Eve, the Ark of the New Covenant, the Eternal Queen of Heaven as well as personal devotions to Mary.

Sacred Heart High School wins Quiz Bowl

LAFAYETTE On Sunday, December 11, 2011, a presentation on “Mary in Scripture: Queen of Heaven and Mother of the Church” will be given at St. Mary, Mother of the Church, 419 Doucet Rd., Lafayette, from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. The program will begin immediately after the 5:00 p.m.

Congratulations to the Sacred Heart High School Varsity Quiz Bowl team for their recent win at the 9th annual Diocese of Lafayette Bouillion-Harris Quiz Bowl Tournament. Pictured above are team members Payton Morein, Alexis Fontenot, Catherine Briley (Captain & the tournament’s high scorer for the 3rd consecutive year), Mrs. Julia Fontenot (team coach), Jacob Bordelon, Austin Fontenot, and Robert Fusilier. Photo submitted by Sacred Heart High School

STM Quiz Bowl Team takes 2nd place

Congratulations are also extended to the St. Thomas More Quiz Bowl team for taking 2nd place at the Quiz Bowl Tournament. Pictured above are Dylan Simon, Kaitlynn Walker, Stephanie Mounger, Nolan Edwards, James Whipple, Austin Ladd, Eric Toups, Mrs. Christine Wise (teacher/coach), Reece Walker, and Ethan Duhon. Photo submitted by Dr. Nancy Ehret

Acadiana Catholic

Story Time with Sts. Leo-Seton, Barnes & Noble

December 2011 Page 37

7th annual “Celebrate Youth”

Among other activities, participants in the “Celebrate Youth” event were able to compete on a Bungee Run inflatable course. Photo submitted by Janeth Harrington

Sts. Leo-Seton Catholic School (Lafayette) EarlyAct Club partnered with Barnes & Noble for their annual “Story Time with SLS at Barnes & Noble” literacy project. Students sponsored a school-wide pajama day to kick off the event. They also presented story time in the store’s children’s department and offered a day of free gift-wrapping for Barnes & Noble customers. In addition, the SLS Music Monday choir presented the Christmas story through carols at the store. As a service to the community, club members created book marks for interested customers getting their Barnes & Noble purchases gift wrapped. Pictured left to right with their book mark creations are Megan Enderlin, Haley Thomas, Carlie Letchworth, Jack Smith, Micah Williams, Bryson Constantine and Jacob Broussard. Photo submitted by Sts. Leo-Seton Catholic School

Painting donated to St. Michael School

St. Michael School in Crowley recently received a donated painting entitled SAINT MICHAEL VANQUISHING SATAN. The painting, a replica of one on display in the Louvre, was donated by Judge Edmond M. Reggie; he and his siblings were all educated by the Sisters of the Most Holy Sacrament at St. Michael School. Pictured above from left to right are: Father Gary Schexnayder, Fred Reggie, Barbara Reggie, Sister Justina Baker, Myra Broussard, Judge Edmond M. Reggie, and Doris Reggie. Photo submitted by St. Michael School

ROBERTS COVE The West Region of the Lafayette Diocese recently sponsored its 7th annual “Celebrate Youth” event for the youth (grades 6-12) of Acadia and Vermilion parishes. It was a day of fun and fellowship hosted this year by St. Leo IV Church in Roberts Cove. Msgr. Jefferson DeBlanc, Vicar of the West Region and Pastor of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church in Church Point, led the opening prayer and meal blessing. Msgr. DeBlanc and Janeth Harrington, West Region Executive Assistant, enjoyed watching the games and visiting with the youth, youth ministers and chaperones of the region. Participants had the opportunity to compete on a Bungee Run inflatable course, practice shooting skills by virtue of an interactive inflatable basketball arcade, and play other games provided by Majestic Jumps of Mire. Paul Broussard of Priority Behavioral Health

in New Iberia, LA, provided a UL bean bag toss game for the youth to enjoy while others played horseshoes, Bocce ball and volleyball. The day was also an opportunity for everyone to simply spend time with old and new friends, and to enjoy a meal together. Music was provided by Louisiana Sounds DJ Service of Morse, LA, and all those attending received a souvenir canvas tote bag (Advice Marketing Promotionals of Lafayette) to commemorate the day’s activities. Special thanks go to the Sacre’Coeur Knights of Columbus (council) and Sacre’Coeur Kaycee (auxiliary) of South Crowley, Piggly Wiggly of Church Point, Rayne State Bank, Court St. Leo Catholic Daughters of Roberts Cove, Fr. Fountaine Knights of Columbus (council) of Estherwood, as well as church parishes, parish organizations, and individual donors who helped to make “Celebrate Youth” such a memorable event.

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Acadiana Catholic

Page 38 December 2011

Advent activities help Catholics prepare for Christmas Throughout the Lafayette Diocese, many Advent activities have been scheduled in order to help local Catholics prepare for the celebration of Christmas. The following is a list of all such events which have been submitted to the Acadiana Catholic, although there may be others. Please refer to your local church parish bulletins for events and activities which may not be included below. Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Scott will host an Advent Penance Service on Tuesday, December 6, from 7:00-8:30 p.m. The Central Region of the diocese has organized a series of three opportunities for confession, during which several priests will be available to administer the sacrament. The first evening will be hosted by St. Joseph Church in Broussard on December 5; the second will be hosted by St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Lafayette on December 14; and the third will be hosted by St. Edmond Church in Lafayette on December 15. All three events will take place from 7:00-8:30 p.m. on their respective dates. At St. Edmond Church in Lafayette, three sessions remain in the parish’s “Advent Bible Study on the Sunday Readings.” The sessions, presented by Deacon Frank Cormier, will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. each Tuesday (December 6, 13, & 20) and will be followed by Eucharistic Adoration. For further details, please contact the parish office at (337) 981-0874. St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Lafayette will host “Anticipation & Preparation” with Fathers Hampton Davis and Michael Champagne, cjc on December 12 and 13, beginning at 7:00 p.m. nightly. For more information, please contact Diana Zeringue at (337) 235-1483. St. Joseph Church in Loreauville will host an Advent mission with Father Jim Sichko (Diocese of Lexington, Kentucky) on December 12, 13, and 14. The mission will begin at 6:30 p.m. each evening. St. Joseph Church in Rayne will host an Advent mission with Father Jerry Mesley on December 12, 13, and 14. The mission will begin at 7:00 p.m. each evening

and will include a penance service on the 14th. St. John the Baptist Church in Lyons Point will host an Advent mission on December 12 and 13, beginning at 6:00 p.m. each evening. The church will also host a penance service on Wednesday, December 21 beginning at 6:00 p.m. Holy Ghost Church in Opelousas will host an Advent penance service beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 13. St. Joseph Church in Evangeline will host a parish penance and adoration service on Wednesday, December 14 beginning at 6:00 p.m. Eucharistic Adoration will also be offered at the church at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 21. Those in the area are reminded that St. Joseph’s will have its regular weekday Masses at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday-Friday, with additional weekday Masses scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on December 12 and 19. St. Peter the Apostle Church in Gueydan will host a viewing and discussion led by Father Jason Vidrine on Thursday, December 15. The evening will be conducted from 6:15-7:30 p.m., and the video will be entitled Our Tainted Nature’s Solitary Boast: Mary, the Mother of God. Immaculate Conception Church in Morse will host its Advent mission on December 15 and 16, beginning at 6:00 p.m. each evening. St. Joseph Church in Plaisance will host an Advent penance service on Thursday, December 15, beginning at 6:20 p.m. Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Opelousas will host a city-wide Advent penance service on Monday, December 19 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. St. Thomas More Church in Eunice will host a tri-parish Advent penance service on Monday, December 19 beginning at 6:00 p.m. Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church in Church Point will host an Advent penance service at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 20. St. John the Evangelist Church in Mermentau will host an Advent penance service beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 22.

Diocese invites inactive Catholics to “Come Home for Christmas” LAFAYETTE The Christmas season is once again nearly here and people have already begun their holiday plans and preparations. Traditionally, this is a time to celebrate the love of family, which includes all our brothers and sisters throughout the Catholic Church. To remind us all of this, the Lafayette Diocese is promoting its annual “Come Home for Christmas” message in all church parishes throughout the area. Billboards promoting the message of God’s love will appear in various locations throughout the diocese. Personal letters of invitation will be mailed out directly to many of those who are in need of reminders that the Catholic Church is still their

For recommendations on how to make the most of the Advent and Christmas seasons, please see “Keeping Christ in Christmas: family ideas to keep everyone focused on the real reason for the season” on Page 23 of this edition.

home. Active Catholics are encouraged to participate in the program by reaching out to those who have strayed from their faith and inviting them to attend Christmas Mass with their families and loved ones during this special time of the year. They are asked to submit the names of those they know who are inactive in their church parishes, and to pray for God’s intercession in the lives of these wounded brothers and sisters so that they may find their way back home to the flock. For further information on how to take part in the “Come Home for Christmas” campaign, please contact the Office of Christian Formation at (337) 261-5550.

11th annual O Holy Night Pageant BREAUX BRIDGE The 11th annual O Holy Night Pageant will be held on Friday, December 15 at St. Bernard Church in Breaux Bridge. The pageant is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m., and all are invited to this evening that reminds us “Jesus is the Reason for the Season.” Youth representatives of both St. Bernard and St. Francis of Assisi Parishes will portray biblical characters as they act out the Prophecy, Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, and Epiphany. For more additional details, please contact Emmaline Thibodeaux at (337) 3322126.

Acadiana Catholic

Rosary offered for country and children

The Rosary was prayed in front of City Hall in New Iberia recently. At the same time with the same intentions as 4,513 cities and towns around United States, prayers were offered for America, the government and children. October 13th was the 94th Anniversary of Our Lady’s apparitions in Fatima, Portugal; and the miracle of the sun. Among those attending were the Children of Mary from St. Marcellus, Father Gregory Chauvin, pastor of St. Nicholas Church; Steve Bellingham, singer; and Don Babineaux, musician; parish president, Ernest Freyou and his family and many others from the area.

2011-2012 Jr. Beta Officers at Maltrait Memorial

Maltrait Memorial Catholic School would like to extend its congratulations to the new Junior Beta Officers for the 2011-2012 school year. They are: Micah Dronet (Treasurer), Kaitlyn Bertrand (Secretary), Leah Camel (President), and Mary Meaux (Vice President). Photo submitted by Kaitlyn Bertrand (MMCS Jr. Beta Secretary)

December 2011 Page 39

December Monthly Manna scheduled for the 14th FRANKLIN All are invited to attend the next meeting of Monthly Manna, which has been scheduled for Wednesday, December 14 at the Forest Restaurant in Franklin. The gathering will begin at 11:00 a.m., with lunch served at 11:30 a.m. at the cost of $10 per person. This month’s presentation, scheduled for 12:00 noon, will be given by Father Eugene Tremie, pastor of St. Marcellus Church in Rynella. Those who attended the November meeting of Monthly Manna heard from Reverend Brad Bullock, pastor of the Crossing Place Church in Franklin. Since Thanksgiving was just around the corner, Reverend Bullock directed his message toward gratitude to God and began his presentation by distributing five kernels of corn to each person present. He explained that they were all to come up with five reasons to give thanks and celebrate God’s goodness, and led off by sharing his own five reasons with the crowd: forgiveness, healing, second chances, love and

compassion, and a life filled with good things. Reverend Bullock went on to reference that each of his choices was based off the text of Psalm 103. He encouraged all to be thankful for God’s forgiveness through Jesus Christ. He shared the personal story of the prayers his congregation offered on behalf of his six-year-old daughter, who was healed of a serious infection that had required hospitalization and surgery. He reminded his listeners of the Old Testament story of King David, who repented his sinfulness and praised God for granting him a second chance to turn from his wrongdoings in life. Reverend Bullock also reminded everyone of the need to be grateful for God’s love and compassion by citing John 3:16, and good things come from God. For further details about the Monthly Manna lunchtime speaker program, please contact Deacon Jerry Bourg (Regional Assistant in the South Region) at (337) 923-4591.

Page 40 December 2011

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 41

Vermilion Catholic names Beta & National Honor Society members

Pictured are the officers for the Beta & NHS Club at Vermilion Catholic. Left to right: Trey Toups (Beta-President), Regan David (Beta-Vice President), Mia LeBeouf (Beta- Treasurer), Angelle Laperouse (Beta-Secretary), Leslie LaCour (NHS-Secretary), Jena Landry (Beta-Reporter), Lindsey Sagrera (NHSPresident), Kyrie Collins (NHS-Vice President), and Katie Meaux (NHSTreasurer) Not pictured is Josh Wilson (NHS-Reporter).

Pictured left to right are the new NHS/ Beta Club members at Vermilion Catholic: Regan David, Lindsey Franz, Emma Noel, Kristin Cobb, Katie Frith, Emily Husband, Andrea Delhommer, Danielle Dubois, Nate Silar, Tyler Lege, Shay LaPorte, Danielle Laperouse, Whitney Freeland, Ellen Langlinais, Ana Leah Tribaldos, Claire David, Collin Primeaux, and Lauren Duhon. Photo provided by Vermilion Catholic School

ABBEVILLE Vermilion Catholic held its Beta and National Honor Society induction ceremony recently. Students in grades 10th -12th with a 3.5 GPA are invited to become members of the Beta Club, and students with a 3.7 GPA are invited to become members of the National Honor Society. This year all of the sophomore class members invited to participate in Beta were also invited to participate in NHS because they all had GPA’s of a 3.7 or above. Two upper classmen were also invited to participate in NHS this year. They were senior Regan David and junior Lauren Duhon.

Opelousas Catholic saints go marching in

These Opelousas Catholic elementary students are shown preparing to walk in the procession for their school Mass in celebration of All Saints’ Day. The elementary students dressed as their favorite saints for the Mass, and some students later went to Our Lady of Prompt Succor Nursing Home to visit the elderly in their saintly attire. Photo submitted by Opelousas Catholic School

Hands of Hope for Rowan

Lafayette’s St. Genevieve Catholic School 4-H club recently extended their hands and hearts to pre-k student, Rowan Crovetto, who was recently diagnosed with cancer. Knowing how difficult the treatments are, the 4-H club wanted her to know that everyone at school was praying for her and supporting her through this difficult time. Pictured above are some of the 4-Hers with Rowan holding a quilt that was handmade for her. Every member of the 4-H club placed their handprint on the quilt for her to see that she has all of these hands of hope and support around her at all times. Photo submitted by St. Genevieve Catholic School

‘The universal joy of Christmas is certainly wonderful. We ring the bells when princes are born, or toll a mournful dirge when great men pass away. Nations have their red-letter days, their carnivals and festivals, but once in the year and only once, the whole world stands still to celebrate the advent of a life. Only Jesus of Nazareth claims this world-wide, undying remembrance. You cannot cut Christmas out of the Calendar, nor out of the heart of the world.’ ~Anonymous

Acadiana Catholic

Page 42 December 2011

Redemptorist Catholic remembers troops

To conclude the Reading unit of Friendship, the third grade class at Redemptorist Catholic School in Crowley, wrote letters, drew pictures, and assembled care packages to send to the American troops overseas. Included in the picture are: (standing) Maddie Foster, Hunter Hoffpauir, Melise Maloz, Zachary Henderson, Amanda Cormier, Christopher Schmid, and Paige Monceaux. (kneeling) Lauren Hoffpauir, Zane Henry, Layla Hernandez, Kane Chisholm, Paige Vincent, and Tyler Trahan. (sitting) Lauren Stewart, Sarah Duplechain, Nick Lucero, Lance Hoffpauer, Alaina Kibodeaux, and Leah Lowery. Not shown in the picture are Cameron Breaux, Zan Conner and Alison Mire. Photo submitted by Redemptorist Catholic School

Trinity Catholic hosts Veterans’ Day program

Students at Trinity Catholic School in St. Martinville celebrated Veterans’ Day by inviting all veterans in the parish to join them for a special student-led program at the school. The program included guest speakers Congressman Jeff Landry (veteran of Operation Desert Storm) and Captain Barrett Lancon (veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom), who spoke to the students about the important role veterans have played in the freedom of our country. Photo submitted by Trinity Catholic School

VLCFF registration open until January 4, 2012 LAFAYETTE Registration for Cycle 1 of the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) will remain open until January 4, 2012. These online classes will be conducted from January 8-February 11. Residents of the Lafayette Diocese may participate in the VLCFF at the cost of $40 per course. Successful completion of a course or courses may be applied toward a Certificate in Catechesis, or count toward the continuing education hours required by the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Catholic Schools. A total of seven cycles is planned for the year 2012. Cycle 1 will include courses entitled Catholic Beliefs; Faith and Human Development; Marianist Studies: Virtues for Mission; and Sacraments. A 2012 calendar and complete listings of all courses to be offered during each cycle are available at www.vlc.udayton.edu. For further information on the partnership between the University of Dayton Institute for Pastoral Initiative and the Lafayette Diocese, please contact the Office of Christian Formation at (337) 261-5550.

Retrospect of the year, 2011 January • Throughout diocese, pro-life supporters maintained annual tradition of pro-life marches/rallies in protest of Roe v. Wade anniversary • Series of regional music workshops began to introduce music for new translation of the Mass • Diocese announced the return of Holy Rosary property to Holy Family Sisters • January 2011 edition of Catholic Digest featured the “Little Cajun Saint” Charlene Richard • Diocese & Acadiana lost historic, spiritual treasure with the burning of Immaculate Conception Church in Washington February • Diocese announced the official launch of new & improved website • Recording artist & religious community founder John Michael Talbot visited the diocese • Missionaries of Charity Sisters celebrated 25 years in the Lafayette Diocese March • Lenten activities such as parish missions & penance services encouraged Catholics throughout the diocese to prepare for celebration of Easter • Office of Catholic Schools sponsored annual ceremony in recognition of Catholic School leaders throughout the diocese April • Renowned author & speaker Immaculée Ilibagiza visited Acadiana to share her experiences as a survivor of Rwandan genocide • Man-to-Man Conference held at Cajun Dome Convention Center • Sister Kathleen Farrelly, O.Carm announced as new Victim Assistance Coordinator for the diocese May • Discalced Carmelites of the Monastery of Mary celebrated 75th anniversary of their presence in Lafayette June • Four newly ordained priests welcomed to the diocese • Bishop Jarrell awards Devoted Service Medal to two individuals at Mass honoring the elderly • St. Paul Church in Lafayette celebrated 100th anniversary of its establishment

July • St. Joseph Diner marked first year at its new location—continues to serve meals 364 days a year to feed the hungry in Acadiana • Father Kevin Bordelon named new Director of Vocations & Seminarians for the diocese August • Office of Development hosted annual BSA Workshop & Ministry Fair to prepare for 2011-2012 Bishop’s Services Appeal Campaign • 2nd annual Life Awareness Vocation Discernment Retreat announced for September September • St. Landry Church in Opelousas hosted annual Memorial Mass in honor of Lt. Father Joseph Verbis Lafleur • Musical settings for new Roman Missal introduced in church parishes throughout the nation • Catholic leaders from throughout Louisiana met to discuss campaign for the repeal of the death penalty in the state October • Woman-to-Woman Conference held at Cajun Dome Convention Center • Former Archbishop Philip M. Hannan of New Orleans died at the age of 98 • Diaconate candidates installed as acolytes at special Mass in Immaculata Chapel • Office of Justice & Peace hosted 11th annual Campaign Against Poverty workshop November • Bishop Jarrell addressed decision to begin publishing his monthly bishop’s column in both English & Spanish in Acadiana Catholic • Hispanic community celebrated 25 years of active ministry in the diocese • Grand Coteau’s Academy of the Sacred Heart School commemorated its 190th year December • Diocesan central offices bid farewell to long-time employees Beverly Broussard (Fiscal Administration) & Deacon Tom Sommers (Acadiana Catholic) • Diocese participated in 24th annual Retirement Fund for Religious collection to help support 34,000 retired sisters, brothers, & priests in religious orders • Diocese carried out its annual “Come Home for Christmas” campaign

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 43

Deacon Sommers to retire from Acadiana Catholic

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Lord kept calling meâ&#x20AC;?

By Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Lord kept calling me. I finally listened and entered the permanent diaconate program.â&#x20AC;? Deacon Tom Sommers is remembering why he entered the program of studying, preparing men to become permanent deacons. Deacon Sommers is editor of the Acadiana Catholic and has been associated with the diocesan paper in part-time and then fulltime capacity for almost twenty years. But he is planning to retire from the paper at the end of the year to devote full time to the ministry of the permanent diaconate. Why did he become a permanent deacon? A convert to Catholicism, he says â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wanted to do more. I felt God was calling me to a more permanent commitment. I had been thinking about it for about ten years and I finally decided to do it.â&#x20AC;? He finds the greatest satisfaction in Baptism, â&#x20AC;&#x153;making new Christians. I enjoy working with couples, preparing their children for this sacrament.â&#x20AC;? He also has great joy assisting the priest at the altar. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But there is always a feeling of unworthiness,â&#x20AC;? he concedes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not about me is it?â&#x20AC;? A resident of the Crowley area (Lyons Point), since 1982, he was born in Baton Rouge where he attended LSU before enlisting in the Navy. His service included graduating from a Navy journalism school and an assignments in public relations. Journalism entered the picture quite early because he enjoyed writing. After the Navy, he enrolled at USL, now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, earning a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degee in graphic design. He married Gloria Jean Hoffpauir in 1967. He had employment in Houston, then West Monroe, where in 1979 he and his family attended the Episcopal Church. As an Episcopalian he was involved with lay ministry with the Louisiana Training Institute (reform school for boys) in Monroe. He worked with a (Catholic) Franciscan priest in this ministry. In addition to several Episcopal organizations, he earned a certifi-

cate in theology by extension from the University of the South School of Theology. In 1982 he was laid off by the company he worked for which was bought out by another company and all employees laid off. He

Deacon Sommers

and his wife and two small daughters moved to Crowley. This was the same year Deacon Sommers and his family were received into the Catholic Church. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wanted to learn more about Catholicism from sources other than the Protestant viewpoint,â&#x20AC;? he recalls. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I started reading the early fathers of the Church. Some misconceptions were cleared up. I was attracted by the example of some friends who were Catholic. I had friends in the service from Louisiana who were Catholic and all along the way I saw their example.â&#x20AC;? He and his family are members of St. John the Baptist Parish, Lyons Point where he has been a reader and extraordinary minister of Communion. He is also a member of the Secular Franciscan Order. After moving to Crowley, he worked with various advertising agencies and publishing companies in the area, but changed careers in the 1990s. One of the places he worked was the Diocese of Lafayette, doing stories and advertising layouts for special editions for the diocesan newspaper. In 1997 when Barbara Gutierrez retired for reasons of health, Deacon Sommers was appointed full-time editor of the Acadiana Catholic.

He likes writing, and explains he sees a relationship with the religious ministry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are communicating the good news with pictures and words. This can be a very important means of evangelization.â&#x20AC;? In addition to Lyons Point, he also assists as a deacon at St. John the Evangelist in Mermentau; Immaculate Conception, Morse; St. Aloysius, Midland; and St. Margaret, Estherwood. Deacons can officiate at Baptisms, weddings, funerals, preach, conduct Communion services, and

wake services. Deacon Sommers visits nursing homes and shut-ins, and conducts adult religious education. And this is retirement? But he loves the ministry and his only regret is that he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enter the diaconate sooner. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel like the laborer who went to work in the vineyard at the eleventh hour,â&#x20AC;? he added. May the Lord bless and keep you, Deacon Sommers, and all the permanent deacons who give so much to the Church through their generous ministry!

MARY ADORES SLEEPING CHRIST CHILD IN PAINTING BY BELLINI Mary adores the sleeping Christ Child in this work by Italian Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini. The Christmas season begins with the Dec. 24 evening vigil commemorating the birth of Christ and ends with the feast of the Baptism of the Lord Jan. 9. (CNS/courtesy of Scala and Art Resource)

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Page 44 December 2011

Sacred Heart High School honors veterans

The staff and students of Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte welcomed the local veterans who joined them for a special Veterans’ Day program. Activities included a procession with all veteran guests, the presentation of our nation’s colors by the Ville Platte High Junior ROTC program, an opening prayer offered by Father Joshua Guillory, and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. Brigadier General Ben Soileau spoke to those in attendance about the history and significance of Veterans’ Day. The program also included the celebration of Mass and a coffee social. Photo submitted by Sacred Heart High School

National Catholic Daughters Day in Carencro

Acadiana Catholic

Rayne Catholic plants a school garden

Rayne Catholic Elementary School’s theme for this school year is ‘PEACE-LOVEGROW” - To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven . . . Ecclesiastes 3:1,11. In conjunction with our theme we have planted a school garden. Each grade level has a section in the garden and will be responsible for taking care of the vegetable plants. Photo submitted by Rayne Catholic School

Sts. Peter & Paul students learn about animal care

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas—Our Lady of Guadalupe Council in Carencro recently celebrated National Catholic Daughters Day with a special procession at St. Peter’s 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass. Participants included Rose Richard, Father Johnathan Janise (Associate Pastor), Velma Harper, Joyce Domingue, Bonita, Blanchard (Vice Regent), Jill Fontenot (Regent), Jane Braquet (Treasurer), Lou Castille, and Georgia Robichaux (Secretary). Submitted photo

Carencro Catholic celebrates All Saints’ Day

4-H students at Sts. Peter & Paul School in Scott were recently visited by members of the Animal Rescue Foundation of Louisiana. The members spoke to the students about the importance of adopting animals and how to care for them, as well as volunteering, and donating items to the Animal Shelter. Photo submitted by Sts. Peter & Paul School

STM football players volunteer at Acadian Village

Students at Carencro Catholic School celebrated All Saints’ Day by upholding the school’s annual tradition, which allows the children to dress as their favorite saints for the day. Dressed in their costumes, the children processed to St. Peter Church for the celebration of Mass in honor of those special people who said “yes” to God during their lives. Photo submitted by Carencro Catholic School

Football players from St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette recently volunteered their time at Acadian Village. They helped with “Treats at the Village,” an event for persons with disabilities and their families. Photo submitted by Michelle Broussard

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 45

Acadiana Catholic

Page 46 December 2011

Black Catholics’ survey finds strong ties, strong engagement in church in a variety of levels WASHINGTON (CNS) African-American Catholics are much more engaged in their church on a variety of levels than are white Catholics, concludes the first National Black Catholic Survey. Whether in a majority black church, a mixed or mostly white parish, the survey found African-American Catholics feel satisfied and fulfilled in their parishes, explained retired Bishop John H. Ricard of Pensacola-Tallahassee, Fla., who is president of the National Black Catholic Congress. By “engaged,” Bishop Ricard explained, the authors of the report mean African-Americans are involved in their parishes well beyond simply attending Mass somewhat regularly. That

includes having strong networks of friends and family in their churches, participating in multiple parish activities and saying their spiritual, emotional and social needs are met there. Bishop Ricard, who is rector of the Washington seminary of his religious order, the Josephites, said the results of the survey surprised and pleased him and the leaders of the National Black Catholic Congress who commissioned it, along with the University of Notre Dame’s Institute for Church Life and the office of the school’s president. The survey will be used as the basis of a pastoral plan for evangelization that will be presented during next July’s National Black Catholic Congress in Indianapolis.

“This is a bright spot for the church,” said Bishop Ricard in an interview Nov. 28 at St. Joseph’s Seminary. Whatever their parish situation, a majority of AfricanAmerican participants in the attitudinal survey conducted by Knowledge Networks, “feel affirmed and have decided they are going to stay Catholic,” he said. “It’s a very optimistic message.” Among the conclusions of the survey were that black Catholics feel more committed to their parishes emotionally, spiritually and socially than do white Catholics. In those respects, as

in many other aspects of the survey, black Catholics were shown to be much more like black Protestants in their approach to church than they are like white Catholics. “Compared with other religious and racial groups, African-American Catholics behave and look like African-American Protestants,” said the executive summary written by study authors Darren W. Davis, a professor of political science and associate vice president for research at Notre Dame, and Donald B. Pope-Davis, professor of psychology and vice president and associate provost Notre Dame.

St. John “makes a difference”

Third annual Tail-Gator Food Fest held at Hanson Memorial FRANKLIN The third annual Tail-Gator Food Fest and Battle of the Paddles was held on November 5, 2011 on the campus of Hanson Memorial High School here. This gumbo and jambalaya cookoff is a fund-raiser sponsored by the Parent-Teacher Organization with proceeds benefitting academics. This year’s cookoff had 22 teams competing in the categories of seafood gumbo, non-seafood gumbo and jambalaya. The winners were: Gumbo, first place: The Road Kill Kings second place: The Roux Brothers third place: Visions of Roux Seafood Gumbo, first place: Frank Martin Farms & JC’s Catering second place: Roux Dat Cher’ third place: Meat Slingers Jambalaya, first place: The Roux Brothers second place: Roux Dat Cher’ third place: Sheriff Mark Hebert People’s Choice Award: Hanson Memorial Senior Spring Sports Soup

The non-seafood gumbo cookoff winners, “The Road Kill Kings,” are pictured above at the third annual Tail-Gator Food Fest and Battle of the Paddles held at Hanson Memorial High School, Franklin.

St. John Elementary of Franklin “Make a Difference Club” officers Brian Sonnier, Sarah Luke, Madison Rineholt, Stephen Rosamond, and Connor Louviere are pictured with personal care items the school collected for Chez Hope. Photo submitted by St. John Elementary School

Correction for Catholic Daughters photo

The above picture was published on Page 44 of the November edition of the Acadiana Catholic, and the staff wishes to apologize for the omission of two names. Pictured from left to right are: Cheryl Luke (Regent of Court Immaculata), Barbara Gerami (Regent of Court Alice Boucher), Thelma LeMaire (District Deputy), L.J. “Joey” Durel (City-Parish President of Lafayette Consolidated Government), Joyce Stein (Louisiana State Regent), Margo Millett (District Deputy), and Eldine LeBlanc (Regent of Court St. Jules). Photo submitted by Cheryl Luke

Acadiana Catholic

December 2011 Page 47

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