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The Official Monthly Publication of the Diocese of Lafayette
Acadiana Catholic
February 2012
Volume 28
Number 2
Bishop Jarrell returns from Ad Limina visit with Pope Benedict XVI by Stephanie R. Martin LAFAYETTE Bishop Michael Jarrell has returned from his trip to Rome for his scheduled Ad Limina visit with Pope Benedict XVI. The Ad Limina visit is a customary visit to the Holy Father that each bishop throughout the world is expected to make approximately every five years; the year 2012 is the designated year for the bishops here in the United States. Bishop Jarrell departed Lafayette on January 21 in order to join 21 other bishops from Region V (Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee) who were also scheduled to visit at this time. The group returned home on February 1. This was Bishop Jarrell’s second Ad Limina visit during his tenure as bishop of the Lafayette Diocese; the first was in November 2004. In addition to their audience with Pope Benedict XVI, Bishop Jarrell and the other Region V bishops celebrated Mass in various loca-
Bishop Michael Jarrell (left) recently returned from his Ad Limina visit to Rome, where he met with Pope Benedict XVI (center). Msgr. Russell Harrington, Chancellor of the Lafayette Diocese, (right) also travelled to Rome with Bishop Jarrell for the occasion.
tions which included the tomb of St. Peter, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside-the-Walls, and
St. Mary Major Church. He stayed at the Domus Sanctae Marthae (St. Martha House)
The year 2012 has been designated for U.S. bishops to travel to Rome for their Ad Limina visits. Pictured above with Pope Benedict XVI are the bishops of Louisiana. From left to right are Bishop Ronald Herzog of the Diocese of Alexandria; Auxiliary Bishop Shelton Fabre of the Archdiocese of New Orleans; Bishop Glen Provost of the Diocese of Lake Charles; Archbishop Gregory Aymond of the Archdiocese of New Orleans; Pope Benedict XVI; Archbishop Emeritus Alfred Hughes of the Archdiocese of New Orleans; Bishop Michael Duca of the Diocese of Shreveport; Bishop Sam Jacobs of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux; Bishop Robert Muench of the Diocese of Baton Rouge; and Bishop Michael Jarrell of the Diocese of Lafayette.
The Spirituality of Stewardship to be Seminar Focus by Connie Babin LAFAYETTE Stewardship Leadership Day participants from 2011 will be pleased to know that their voices were heard. In the evaluation process following last year’s seminar, attendees indicated they wanted to hear and learn more about stewardship as a means of growing spiritually. Father Daniel Mahan, a priest for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis and the Executive Director of the O’Meara Ferguson Center for Catholic Stewardship at Marian University, will deliver that topic in two 50 minute sessions. Father Mahan’s initial talk, “Stewardship as Spirituality” will provide inspiration to those who are new to the concept of stewardship as a means of practicing the Catholic faith and a ‘revival’ to those who are ‘seasoned’ in
‘stewardship as a way of life’. Father will delve into: What is a Steward? What is Spirituality? How is Stewardship a Spirituality? and How do we ‘live’ Stewardship as a Spirituality? Father Mahan’s second presentation will focus on stewardship in the parishes. He will cover practical aspects of parish stewardship, strategies in use, strategies that have worked and personal anecdotes of true success stories. Mr. Michael Murphy, President of the International Catholic Stewardship Council will give pastors and parish personnel tips on conducting a Capital Campaign for building projects and parish needs. Father Mahan serves full-time in stewardship ministry makcontinued on page 4
located inside the walls of the Vatican; historically, this is the place where the Cardinals are housed during the process of electing a new Pope. Others who accompanied Bishop Jarrell during this trip included Msgr. Russell Harrington, Chancellor of the Lafayette Diocese and Pastor of Assumption of the BVM Church in Mire. Also along for the journey was Bishop Glen John Provost, who was ordained to the priesthood for the Lafayette Diocese in 1975 and installed as bishop of the Lake Charles Diocese in 2007. This was his first Ad Limina visit. Bishop Jarrell will be sharing further details about his Ad Limina visit in his column in the March edition of the Acadiana Catholic.
Inside this issue
Men & women honored at annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mass. . . . . . . . . . . 14 St. Genevieve Church rededicated after renovation. . . . . 21 New Marriage 101 column from the Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry. . . . . . 26 Lenten season can be enhanced with participation in Operation Rice Bowl. . . . . .32 Rachel’s Vineyard participant offers testimony. . . . . . . . . . 34 Our Lady of Mercy hosts art exhibit for OC students. . . .36 Sisters of Divine Providence mark 250th anniversary. . . . 40 Optimistic report on seminarians/vocations. . . . . . . . . . . .46
Page 4 February 2012
Stewardship Leadership Day continued from page 3
Mark Your Calendar/Please Attend Stewardship Leadership Day
ing presentations to dioceses and parishes throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, in Australia and the Philippines and most recently in China. He has served as a faculty member and the Director of Formation for the Institutes and Conferences of the International Catholic Stewardship Council. He is the author of More than Silver or Gold: Homilies of a Stewardship Priest, published by Saint Catherine of Siena Press. For additional stewardship reading, please see related article on page 13.
February 29, 2012 (Wednesday) Registration: 8:30 AM Program begins: 9:00 AM
Acadiana Catholic
For further details, contact: Office of Stewardship & Development cbabin@diolaf.org 337-261-5641
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.
Immaculata Center Fusilier Auditorium 1408 Carmel Drive
Lunch will be served. Please RSVP $10 donation for lunch gratefully accepted
Acadiana Catholic
Carlow Choir to perform in Franklin FRANKLIN The Church of the Assumption in Franklin will host a concert of sacred music performed by the Carlow Choir at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 12. The Carlow Choir, directed by John DeChiaro, is a group of singers who perform a liturgical repertoire of varying styles and formats in the soprano, alto, tenor, and bass textural settings. The choir has performed in the United States, Ireland, and Italy, including a special performance for Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican in Rome. The choir has also recorded two programs of sacred music for the global Catholic television network EWTN, one of which was recorded at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Alexandria, Louisiana in November 2009. For further details on their upcoming performance in Franklin, please contact the parish office of the Church of the Assumption at (337) 828-3869.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Acadiana Catholic, 1408 Carmel Ave., Lafayette, LA 70501-5306 Official Monthly Newspaper for the Diocese of Lafayette, Louisiana Copyright 2012
Publisher Most Rev. Michael Jarrell, D.D. Bishop of Lafayette
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 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
From the front cover of the July 1988 edition of the Acadiana Catholic--Bishop Gerard L. Frey (left) and Coadjutor Bishop Harry Flynn (right) visit with Pope John Paul II in Rome during their Ad Limina visit.
Acadiana Catholic PRAY FOR YOUR DEPARTED CLERGY: Bishop Edward J. O’Donnell, Feb. 1, 2009 Father Auguste M. Rochard, Feb. 1, 1933 Msgr. Louis Massebiau, Feb. 1, 1953 Msgr. I. Bede Becnel, Feb. 5, 1993 Msgr. Guy Lemoine, Feb. 7, 2002
Msgr. Georges Levasseur, Feb. 7, 1986 Father Armand Cyr, Feb. 8, 1973 Msgr. Olan Broussard, Feb. 8, 1977 Deacon James Guilbeau, Feb. 10, 2002 Deacon Lawrence V. Jacobs, Jr., Feb. 10, 2010 Deacon Edward James Ray, Feb. 13, 1994
Monday
Sunday
Tuesday
1
Msgr. Bernard W. Neyboer, Feb. 16, 1978 Father Harry J. Pelous, Feb. 18, 1994 Deacon Randy LeBlanc, Feb. 20, 2008 Msgr. Joseph Peeters, Feb. 20, 1941 Father Donald Hebert, Feb. 22, 2000 Bishop Jules B. Jeanmard, Feb. 23, 1957
Wednesday Weekday
2
Thursday
Presentation of the Lord
February 2012 Page 5
Father Armand Hamel, Feb. 24, 1948 Father G. Eugene Veekmans, Feb. 26, 1954 Father Hippolyte W. Chmura, Feb. 26, 1992
Friday
3
Sts. Blaise & Ansgar
4
February 2012 5
Fifth Sunday Ordinary Time
6
St. Paul Miki & Companions
Holy Hour for Vocations St. Patrick Church Lafayette 6:00 PM-7:00 PM
7
Weekday
Food for the Journey Crowne Plaza Hotel Lafayette 11:30 AM-12:45 PM
Divine Mercy Night St. Peter Church New Iberia 6:30 PM
12
Sixth Sunday Ordinary Time
Carlow Choir Concert Church of the Assumption Franklin 2:00 PM
13
Weekday
14
Sts. Cyril & Methodius
8
Sts. Jerome Emiliani & Josephine Bakhita
Weekday
9
St. Scholastica
10
15
Theology on Tap Tsunami Sushi Restaurant Lafayette 7:30 PM
Weekday Diaconate Class Immaculata Center Lafayette 7:00 AM-5:30 PM
Our Lady of Lourdes Blessed Virgin Mary
11
Diocesan DRE Meeting Immaculata Center, Lafayette (John XXIII Rm.) 10:00 AM-12:00 NOON
Companions Along the Journey (Bereavement Support Group) Immaculata Center Lafayette 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Weekday
Saturday
Mass of Healing/Annointing of the Sick Our Lady of Fatima Church Lafayette 10:00 AM
16
Weekday
The Seven Founders of the Order Of Servites
17
Blessed Virgin Mary
18
Prepare/Enrich Training Seminar Immaculata Center Lafayette 9:00 AM-4:00 PM Diaconate Class Immaculata Center Lafayette 7:00 AM-5:30 PM
19
Seventh Sunday Ordinary Time
26
First Sunday of Lent
Rite of Election Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Lafayette 2:30 PM
20
Weekday
27
Lenten Weekday
21
St. Peter Damian
28
Lenten Weekday
Diocesan Central Offices Closed for Mardi Gras
22
Ash Wednesday Fast & Abstinence
29
Lenten Weekday
23
St. Polycarp
Day of Recollection St. Edmond Church Lafayette 9:00 AM
Stewardship Leadership Day Immaculata Center Lafayette 8:30 AM
24
Lenten Weekday Abstinence
25
Lenten Weekday
The Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions February general intention:
That all peoples may have access to water and other resources needed for daily life.
Mission intention:
That the Lord may sustain the efforts of health workers assisting the sick and elderly in the world’s poorest regions.
Page 6 February 2012
Golfer’s registration deadline for tournament is set for Feb. 27 12:30 p.m. The deadline for NEW IBERIA Those who plan to attend the 37th annual Louisiana Clergy Open Golf Tournament are reminded that the registration deadline for golfers is Monday, February 27. The tournament is open free of charge to all priests and deacons of all Louisiana dioceses, as well as to all seminarians and diaconate formation participants in the Lafayette Diocese. The tournament itself, to be played in honor of retired priest Father Floyd J. Calais, is scheduled for Wednesday, May 16, at Squirrel Run Golf Club in New Iberia. For golfers, registration begins (and the driving range opens) at 7:00 a.m., with 18-hole individual stroke play to begin at 8:00 a.m. The afternoon will include a Putt-Off tournament at 1:00 p.m., followed by an optional 9-hole team scramble at 1:30 p.m. Non-golfers are also encouraged to join the gathering for lunch, which will be served at
these individuals to register is Monday, April 16. All registration forms may be requested by calling (337) 261-5613 or emailing sthompson@diolaf.org. Additional information on the 37th annual Louisiana Clergy Open Golf Tournament may be requested by contacting Msgr. Richard Greene, VE, by telephone at (985) 518-7124, by Fax at (985) 395-9129, or by email at dolsouth2@cox-internet.com.
37th Annual Louisiana Clergy Open Golf Tournament Wednesday, May 16 Squirrel Run Golf Club in New Iberia Registration Deadlines: Golfers by February 27 Non-golfers by April 16
Ireland heart of
Pilgrimage
Pray for our priests Listed below are the priests for whom Catholics are asked to pray daily. The calendar is sponsored by the Serra Club of Lafayette. Feb. l Pope Benedict XVI Feb. 2 Bishop Michael Jarrell Feb. 3 Fr. Charles Langlois Feb. 4 Msgr. H.A. Larroque, JCD, VG Feb. 5 Fr. Bernard Lebiedz, OSB Feb. 6 Fr. Steven LeBlanc Feb. 7 Fr. Louis Ledoux Feb. 8 Fr. Mark Ledoux Feb. 9 Fr. Austin Leger Feb. 10 Fr. Donald Leger Feb. 11 Fr. Lambert Lein, SVD Feb. 12 Fr. Martin Leonards Feb. 13 Fr. James Liprie, OSB Feb. 14 Fr. Thomas Madden, SJ Feb. 15 Msgr. Charles Mallet Feb. 16 Fr. Curtis Mallet, JCL, VG Feb. 17 Fr. Jaison Mangalath, SVD Feb. 18 Fr. Wilson Matt Feb. 19 Fr. Dismas Mauk, SVD Feb. 20 Fr. Kenneth Mayne Feb. 21 Fr. Garrett McIntyre Feb. 22 Fr. Neil McNeil Feb. 23 Fr. Glenn Meaux, SOLT Feb. 24 Fr. Bill Melancon Feb. 25 Fr. Aaron Melancon Feb. 26 Fr. Louis Melancon Feb. 27 Fr. Mark Melancon Feb. 28 Fr. Jerry Mesley Feb. 29 Msgr. Paul Metrejean Eternal Father, we lift up to You these and all the priests of the world. Sanctify them. Heal and guide them. Mold them into the likeness of your Son, Jesus, the Eternal High Priest. May their lives be pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
February Birthdays
June 22-July 3, 2012 Take a journey to the Emerald Isle and learn how Irish Catholics forever changed our faith.
Spiritual directors: Fr. Jerry Fagin, S.J. & Sr. Noel Toomey, O.P. Call today for details:
Pray for our priests
337-291-1933
www.holytravels.org/ireland
Father TJ Hebert Deacon John Thibodaux Deacon Reginald Bollich Deacon David Vaughn Father Michael Arnaud Deacon Paul Eleazar Father Michael Sucharski, SVD Father James Lambert, SJ Father Michael Landry Father David Broussard Father Mark Thibodeaux, SJ Father Joseph Brennan Deacon Gerald Bourg Father Anderson Louis De Sousa, SVD Father Scott Desormeaux Father Andrew Whitman, SJ
Feb. 2 Feb. 3 Feb. 4 Feb. 4 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 11 Feb. 11 Feb. 13 Feb. 13 Feb. 15 Feb. 22 Feb. 26 Feb. 26 Feb. 28
Acadiana Catholic
February Ordination Anniversaries
Father Paul Patin, SJ Deacon Wade Broussard Deacon Joseph Comeaux Deacon James Cormier Deacon Harry Darce Deacon Christopher Douit Deacon Richard Picard Deacon John Sarkies Deacon Nolton Senegal Deacon Steve Simon Deacon Tam Minh Tran Father Godwin Okechukwn Nzeh, CMF Deacon Harris Bergeron Deacon Timothy Borbas Deacon Jerome Collins Deacon James Davis Deacon Ulysee Joubert Deacon James Kincel Deacon Thomas Lindsey Deacon Albert Marcel Deacon Joseph Trahan
Feb. 6, 1973 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 12, 2000 Feb. 14, 1982 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000 Feb. 26, 2000
Mass of Healing/ Anointing of the Sick LAFAYETTE The 2nd Annual Mass of Healing and Anointing of the Sick will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 11 inside Our Lady of Fatima Church in Lafayette. This event is sponsored by the Order of Malta in Lafayette. The Mass will be celebrated by Abbot Placid Solari, OSB, Chancellor of Belmont Abbey College. He will be joined by Fathers Hampton Davis (Chaplain of the Lafayette Order of Malta) and Michael Russo (Pastor, Our Lady of Fatima), as well as several other local priests. The Anointing of the Sick is the Sacrament which asks God for healing of body, mind and/or soul which is reserved for a priest to confer. It is intended for those baptized persons who are seriously ill, chronically ill, or weakened by old age. For the healing of the soul, the sacrament forgives sins and restores sanctifying grace. For healing of the body and mind, the sacrament places the condition of the sick person in the hands of God for a cure.
Acadiana Catholic
February 2012 Page 7
Immaculée Ilibagiza returning to Lafayette for conference by Renee Helmer LAFAYETTE Immaculée Ilibagiza will return to Lafayette during the weekend of March 16-17 to host a conference at the Cajundome Convention Center. Doors to the conference are scheduled to open at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 16, and a healing Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. All are invited, and participants may register online at www.Immaculée.com. For further information, please call (337) 278-9257. Immaculée Ilibagiza is a Rwan-
dan genocide survivor. Within three months, a million people (20% of the country’s population) were murdered, and they were hunting her, but she hid in a 3’x 4’ bathroom with seven other women for 91 days. She survived by eating crumbs of discarded leftovers and praying the rosary. The rosary was the last gift her father gave her before he sent her to hide at the house of a Hutu Protestant minister. “He will keep you safe,” her father said. “Now go!” Leaving was one of her strongest acts of obedience she had experienced thus far.
Pro-Life scientist to speak on vaccine manufacturing, contaminants, & conscience rights LAFAYETTE Dr. Theresa Deisher, PhD, a pro-life scientist in molecular and cellular physiology from Stanford University, will speak on Vaccine Manufacturing, Contaminants, and Conscience Rights at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, March 26 at St. Jules Church in Lafayette. That same evening, Dr. Deisher will also make her presentation at 6:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Wisdom Church on the ULL campus. Currently, Dr. Deisher is President and CEO of AVM Biotechnology. Her presentation will focus on educating the audience on how to act responsibly in the prolife quest for moral and healthy vaccines. She will include information on how the pharmaceutical companies produce and pack-
age vaccines and other biologics; how vaccine contaminants biologically could trigger auto-immune reactions and genomic disruption; and how conscience rights are compatible with vaccine manufacturing practices. Dr. Deisher will also identify those non-fetal containing alternatives vaccines. Dr. Deisher’s presentation, which is open free of charge to everyone who is interested, is an opportunity to obtain current and accurate scientific information concerning vaccine safety, production, distribution and use. For further information regarding this topic, please call (337) 2342727 or go online to laityaction. org/Issues/Vaccines.html.
St. Thomas More welcomes alumni/seminarians
Her life as she knew it was gone. Everything was taken away from her—her mom, dad, brothers, home, school, friends, health—all possessions and even peace of mind. In her pitiful state the devil tried to steal her faith, but her faith was strong enough to fight the enemy. Rwanda is a small country located in central Africa. This past November, I traveled there with Immaculée to her village. Standing on that pathway, admiring the plush green tropical mountains, Immaculée leaned toward me and whispered in my ear, “Here comes one of the killers.” I immediately felt anger and wanted to protect my friend. I turned my head quickly to give him a disapproving look, but when I laid my eyes on him, I immediately felt pity! Just because he was one of the killers, he was no better off than the victims of the genocide. His eyes and posture showed defeat; he was defeated by his own choices, which created greater disappointment within himself. Immaculée was able to forgive this man, but
“Don’t play with hate,” cautioned Immaculée Ilibagiza during a recent visit to her native village in Rwanda. A survivor of the Rwandan genocide and a world-renowned speaker and author who promotes a message of prayer and peace, Immaculée is shown above extending her forgiveness to the man who murdered her uncle. Photo submitted by Jan Risher
he had not yet been able to forgive himself. He told us that he missed the people he killed and wished he could talk to them again. Immaculée talked to other killers and victims in the village that day. She brought them together and helped them open the channels of communication. She showed each side kindness, respect, and understanding. She explained, “Forgiving doesn’t mean you accept what they did and forget what happened. continued on page 8
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St. Thomas More Catholic High School welcomed seminarians Joseph Boustany (Class of ’10), Payton Bourque (Class of ’11), and Sal Istre (Class of ’11), who joined students, faculty, and staff at a recent school Mass. These three alumni are among 29 young men who comprise the diocese’s 2011-2012 Class of Seminarians. Also pictured are Father Joe Breaux and Father Steve LeBlanc. Photo submitted by St. Thomas More High School
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Page 8 February 2012
Come, Lord Jesus! annual conference LAFAYETTE The annual Come, Lord Jesus! Conference has been scheduled for the weekend of March 23-24 at the Holiday Inn in Lafayette. This year’s event will features a Friday evening “retreat” with confession beginning at 6:30 p.m. and Mass at 7:00 p.m., followed by Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, recitation of the rosary, and spiritual meditations by Father Conley Bertrand, Founder and Director of the Come, Lord Jesus! Program. The evening will end with Benediction and Divine Praises at 10:00 p.m. Saturday’s schedule will begin with the celebration of Mass at 8:00 a.m., followed
by the start of the conference at 9:15 a.m. The day’s speaker will be Dr. Brant Pitre, who will present three conferences on his latest book, Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist. All events and activities are scheduled to conclude at approximately 2:00 p.m. Special room rates are available for overnight stays; please call (877) 865-6581 and mention the “Come, Lord Jesus!” Block (group code CLJ). There is no cost for Friday evening; however, on Saturday there will be a $15 registration fee, and an additional $12 charge for lunch if orders are placed prior to March 12. After March 12, registration will be subject to space availability. For further details, please contact the Come, Lord Jesus! office at (337) 233-6277.
Annual Christmas luncheon at Deaf Action Center
The Lafayette Diocese’s Deaf Action Center hosted its annual Christmas luncheon on December 11; participants contributed covered dishes for the meal, and meat was provided by Early’s Cajun Store in Scott. Students from Lafayette High School’s Serteen club assisted in serving and assisting approximately 80 people during the luncheon. There was also a surprise visit from Santa, who distributed gifts and communicated through sign language. The meal was preceded by the celebration of Mass with Father Conley Bertrand. Photo submitted by the Deaf Action Center
Immaculée continued from page 7
Forgiving allows you to be objective and to have understanding.” She also explained that forgiveness is about peace of heart. It does not mean there should not be any justice. Some healing did take place on that day. The lessons Immaculée showed the people of the genocide are the same lessons she wants to help all people to learn. “Don’t play with hate,” she said. The way we speak to each other is so important. Through praying the rosary, Immaculée came to a clear understanding of Christ’s life and his lessons. She is coming back to Lafayette to inspire us to use the tools of our Faith to grow closer to God, combat the enemy, and to live a life of peace. All are invited to attend the conference to hear this message from her firsthand.
Day of Recollection scheduled for Feb. 23 LAFAYETTE The St. Edmond Altar Society will host a day of recollection at St. Edmond Church in Lafayette beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 23. The cost of attendance is $10 per person, which includes lunch for the day. The retreat master will be Father Clint Trahan, pastor of Immaculate Conception Church in Morse. Bishop Michael Jarrell will celebrate Mass at 12:10 p.m. Those who wish to attend must purchase tickets in advance, no later than February 16. Tickets may be purchased by sending a check to: St. Edmond Altar Society, 116 Delmar Lane, Lafayette, LA 70506. Additional ticket information may be requested by contacting RaNelle Simon at (337) 232-2849.
Acadiana Catholic
Married couples oneday retreat LOREAUVILLE St. Joseph Church in Loreauville will host a one-day retreat for married couples on Saturday, February 11 inside St. Theresa Hall. The day will begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude with the celebration of Mass at 4:00 p.m. The cost is $30 per couple, which includes lunch. The retreat will be led by Dr. Philip Mango, internationally noted seminar leader and president of the St. Michael Institute of the Psychological Sciences in New York City. Dr. Mango’s presentation will be entitled “The Development of Manhood, Womanhood, and Marriage.” For further information, please contact St. Joseph Church at (337) 229-4254.
Gala to benefit Sts. Peter & Paul School SCOTT Ticket sales are currently underway for the 2nd annual gala event in support of Sts. Peter & Paul School in Scott. This year’s semi-formal event is scheduled for Saturday, February 11 in the school’s cafetorium. The theme is “A Knight’s Tale: A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Activities will begin with a silent auction at 6:00 p.m., followed by the gala event from 7:00-11:00 p.m. The evening will include food, beverages, a live auction, and a good time! Tickets to the event are $100 (admits 2) and can be purchased by contacting Stacy Thibodeaux (ticket chairperson) by email at gala@sts-peter-paul.org or telephone at (337) 258-8066. All proceeds will go to support Sts. Peter & Paul School.
Acadiana Catholic
February 2012 Page 9
State-wide television campaign for Catholic schools launched in conjunction with 2012 Catholic Schools Week NEW ORLEANS by Peter Finney, Jr. The seed for creating a television advertising campaign to promote Catholic schools throughout the state of Louisiana was planted about a year ago by Marianite Sister Immaculata Paisant, who then was serving as superintendent of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. “Sister Mac,” as she is known affectionately, had read a dusty position paper authored by the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops in which the bishops spoke highly of the value of Catholic education and the need to “market” Catholic schools effectively and “pay our teachers just wages.” “I had just left my job (after 24 years as Houma-Thibodaux superintendent), and I was looking for work,” Sister Mac said with a laugh. “I left officially at the end of June to go on a fourmonth sabbatical, and I thought I might go nuts.” Sister Mac used her time of prayer, reflection, exercise and freedom wisely. She approached WLAE-TV to see if the station could offer her guidance on producing an advertising campaign that could be used by the seven Catholic dioceses throughout the state to promote Catholic schools. The station pointed her in the direction of marketing and advertising executive Greg Buis-
The state-wide television campaign consists of five 30-second and five 15-second spots highlighting an amazing fact or statistic about Louisiana Catholic Schools.
son, who runs Buisson Creative Strategies in Metairie. As a product of Catholic schools, Buisson never could turn down a nun when she asked for help. “We agreed to do it on a pro bono basis,” he said. The challenge was straightforward. For decades, Catholic schools stood virtually alone as the clear leaders in providing academic excellence, along with an education based on Christian values. However, with the academic improvements in public and charter schools since Hurricane Katrina—and with parents squeezed by the economy as Catholic school tuition increased—Catholic schools have had to scramble to keep enrollment up. After Buisson agreed to offer his expertise, Sister Mac
The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Catholic Schools has confirmed that copies of the television spots have been distributed to all 34 Catholic schools in the area. Videos are also available for viewing through the diocesan website, www.diolaf.org, under the Catholic Schools section.
approached the bishops with a plan and a proposed advertising budget. What had thwarted previous state-wide efforts to promote education was the inability of each diocese to share the cost of the program. Sister Mac and Buisson were able to present the theme “Catholic Schools: In a class of their own” and propose a television campaign that would cost $175,000 overall. For that amount, Buisson and his media buyer contacted general managers of TV stations in each market and negotiated contracts for airtime in February, March and April. “We’re only spending $175,000 across the state, but we’ve negotiated with one TV station in every market, and they’ve given us a 3-for-1 match,” Buisson said. “We are going to ultimately have a value of $820,000. We called every general manager and every sales manager of every station and told them we were trying to rebuild Catholic schools. Ironically, many of the GMs either had a child in Catholic school or were involved in Catholic schools before. They absolutely couldn’t have been more accommodating.” Anna Larriviere, Superintendent of the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Catholic Schools, is also optimistic about the impact the campaign will have. “When we began planning for this marketing campaign, it was felt that a state-wide public rela-
tions campaign would allow the ‘good news’ of Catholic education to be proclaimed in a consistent and relevant messages,” said Ms. Larriviere. “This was a collaborative effort by the seven dioceses. Through the generosity of our bishops, this campaign became a reality, and we are most grateful for their support.” The television campaign represents a collaborative effort amongst the bishops and superintendents of all seven Catholic dioceses throughout Louisiana. Each commercial will focus on an amazing fact or statistic about Catholic schools, including: • 99 percent of Catholic high school graduates qualify to go on to college • Catholic schools produce graduates who are more engaged citizens, more tolerant of different viewpoints and more committed to service • With 81,457 students enrolled in Catholic schools across Louisiana, the state saves $410 million in education costs each year. • Catholic schools score consistently higher on the ACT than other students, averaging about 23 against the national average of 21. The commercials will begin airing in early February, coinciding with Catholic Schools Week and also the heaviest recruiting period for new students. “The good news is that it’s a canned program and doesn’t have any dates or times, so we could probably use it again next year,” said Sister Mac. She hopes the commercials will be an effective recruiting tool and has asked each diocese to track new students by asking their parents what prompted them to consider a Catholic school. “The most important things are instruction in the faith and spiritual formation. I don’t mean just knowing the faith, but living it and practicing it – living what you believe. The spiritual formation is the end all and be all. It allows you to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.”
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La Vida Consagrada y el Laicado Por Obispo Michael Jarrell El 2 de febrero, la Iglesia celebra la Fiesta de la Presentación del Señor. Se celebra 40 días después de la Navidad y nos recuerda el evento descrito en el Evangelio de Lucas (2:22, ff) en el cual aprendemos que José y María “llevaron a Jesús a Jerusalén para presentárselo al Señor.” Fue un acto de acción de gracias a Dios por el regalo del niño y un acto de consagración del niño al servicio de Dios. El 2 de febrero y el domingo siguiente, la Iglesia observa el Día Mundial a la Vida Consagrada. Para muchos lectores ese término, “vida consagrada”, podría ser poco familiar. Se refiere mayormente a los sacerdotes, hermanos y hermanas que pertenecen a comunidades religiosas. Sin embargo, hay otras maneras de llevar una vida consagrada, demasiadas para ser enumeradas en este mensaje. Sin embargo, cuando se describe la vida consagrada, el Código de la Ley Canónica (#573) habla de los fieles que están totalmente dedicados a Dios, para la edificación de la Iglesia y la salvación del mundo. También habla de los
Annual “Celebrate Life” banquet LAFAYETTE The DesOrmeaux Foundation will host its annual “Celebrate Life” banquet on Friday, February 24 at the Crowne Plaza South (Pinhook Road) in Lafayette. Tickets are available at the cost of $50 each, which includes dinner and a silent auction. Tables for eight are also available at the cost of $375 each. Tickets may
consejos evangélicos, que son pobreza, castidad y obediencia. Menciona que las personas que viven una vida consagrada son un signo preclaro en la Iglesia, prenunciando la gloria celestial. En todas las parroquias en la Diócesis, se ofrecerán oraciones para aquellos en la vida consagrada. Será una ocasión para darle gracias a Dios por estos hombres y mujeres quienes han trabajado y están trabajando en parroquias, colegios, hospitales y en otros ministerios. Actualmente en la Diócesis, existen 147 Hermanas, 14 Hermanos y docenas de sacerdotes que son miembros de órdenes religiosas. Tengo la esperanza de que el Día Mundial a la Vida Consagrada sea un tiempo para que los jóvenes aprendan más sobre la vida consagrada mientras disciernan la voluntad de Dios en sus vidas. Se puede obtener información en la siguiente página web: www.foryourvocation.org y en español: www. portuvocación.org . Agradezco también la labor de la Hermana Judith Coreil, MSC, quien es la Directora de nuestra Oficina Diocesana para los Religiosos. Ella está siempre en contacto con los hermanos y hermanas religiosas que sirven en la Diócesis y los ayuda en diversas maneras. Laicado El 7 de febrero, seré el anfitrión de la Cena Anual de las Directivas. Este es un evento por el
be purchased by calling (337) 289-9366 or 877-84-WOMEN, or by visiting www.desormeauxfoundation.com. Master of Ceremonies for the evening will be Mr. Chad Judice, author of Waiting for Eli. The banquet will also feature renowned national speaker Mr. Michael Voris (www.RealCatholicTV.com). All funds raised during this event are tax deductible, and will remain local to assist with the
cual expreso mucho agradecimiento a los hombres y mujeres quienes sirven en varias Directivas y Concejos Diocesanos. En la Diócesis, hay 11 directivas compuestas de unas 90 personas. Entre ellas están las siguientes: El Concejo de Sacerdotes, El Concejo Pastoral Diocesano, La Directiva de Finanzas, El Concejo de Asesoramiento de Escuelas Católicas, el Concejo de Desarrollo, La Directiva de Revisión sobre el Abuso, y la Directiva de Revisión de Inmuebles. Por muchos años, los Obispos de la Diócesis de Lafayette se han apoyado en los asesoramientos de personas laicas. El segundo Obispo de Lafayette, Maurice Schexnayder, formó la Directiva de Finanzas más de 50 años atrás. Es muy interesante que el nuevo Código de la Ley Canónica (1983) requiera que un obispo tenga una Directiva de Finanzas, tal como se requiere que un párroco tenga una en su parroquia. El Concilio Vaticano Segundo habló elocuentemente sobre el rol del laicado en la Iglesia. Han pasado 47 años desde el fin del Concejo. En esos tiempos, los Obispos de Lafayette promocionaron la participación del laicado en el ministerio de la Iglesia. Estoy muy agradecido por los muchos laicos quienes entregan su tiempo y talentos al servicio de la Iglesia. Que Dios bendiga la Diócesis de Lafayette.
DesOrmeaux Foundation’s three ministries: the St. Marguerite d’Youville Home, The Baby and Me Boutique, and the pregnancy resource center which helps mothers and mothers-to-be gain hope and confidence for their future by providing emotional and physical support at a difficult time in their lives. “This is a way to help these young women get back on their feet and give them hope for a brighter future”, said Brenda
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Desormeaux, president of the organization. “We help them to understand they can reach their dreams and give their baby life, too.” DIOCESAN-WIDE 2nd COLLECTION A diocesan-wide 2nd collection to benefit Black and Indian missions will take place during the weekend of February 26, 2012.
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February 2012 Page 11
Consecrated Life and Laity by Bishop Michael Jarrell On February 2, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. It is celebrated 40 days after Christmas and it recalls the event described in the Gospel of Luke (2:22, ff) where we learn that Joseph and Mary “took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.” It was an act of thanksgiving to God for the gift of the child and an act of consecrating the child to God’s service. On February 2 and on the Sunday following, the Church observes a World Day for the Consecrated Life. That term, “consecrated life”, may be unfamiliar to many readers. It refers mainly to priests, brothers and sisters who belong to religious communities. However, there are many other forms of consecrated life, too many to enumerate here. However, in describing the consecrated life, the Code of Canon Law (#573) speaks of members of the faithful who are totally dedicated to God, to building up the Church
Pope Benedict XVI names Archdiocesan Priest “Monsignor” ALBUQUERQUE Archbishop Michael J. Sheehan of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, New Mexico was notified by Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, that Pope Benedict XVI has named Father Bennett J. Voorhies “Monsignor”. The honors
and to the salvation of the world. It speaks also of the evangelical counsels, which are poverty, chastity and obedience. It says that persons in consecrated life have been made an outstanding sign in the Church foretelling heavenly glory. In all parishes in the Diocese, prayers will be offered for those in consecrated life. It will be an occasion to give thanks to God for these men and women who have labored and are laboring in parishes, schools, hospitals and in other ministries. Currently in the Diocese, there are 147 Sisters, 14 Brothers and dozens of priests who are members of religious orders. I hope that the World Day of Consecrated Life will be a time for young people to learn more about the consecrated life as they discern God’s will for them in their lives. Information is available at www.foryourvocation.org. I give thanks, too, for the work of Sister Judith Coreil, MSC, who is Director of our Diocesan Office for Religious. She keeps tabs on the religious brothers and sisters serving in the Diocese and assists them in various ways. Laity On February 7, I will be hosting the Annual Boards Supper. This is an event by
were bestowed by the Holy Father on November 11, 2011. Msgr. Voorhies is a native of Lafayette, Louisiana and is the current pastor of Our Lady of Annunciation Parish in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. He was ordained by Pope John Paul II (now Blessed) at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City State, Rome on June 12, 1983. Fluent in English, Italian and some French, he was ordained for the Diocese of Lafayette and served as associate pastor at Sts. Peter &
which I express appreciation to men and women who serve on various Diocesan boards and Councils. In the Diocese, there are 11 boards comprising about 90 persons. Among them are: The Council of Priests, the Diocesan Pastoral Council, the Finance Board, the Catholic School Advisory Council, the Development Council, The Abuse Review Board, and the Building Review Board. For many years, the Bishops of the Diocese of Lafayette have relied on the advice of lay persons. Bishop Maurice Schexnayder, second Bishop of Lafayette, formed the Finance Board over 50 years ago. It is interesting that the new Code of Canon Law (1983) requires a bishop to have a Finance Board, just as a pastor is required to have one in his parish. The Second Vatican Council spoke eloquently concerning the role of the laity in the Church. It has been 47 years since the end of the Council. In that time, Bishops of Lafayette have promoted the participation of the laity in the ministry in the Church. I am grateful for the many lay persons who are exercising the stewardship of time and talent in their service to the Church. May God bless the Diocese of Lafayette.
Paul in Scott and Sacred Heart of Jesus in Ville Platte, administrator of St. Patrick in Lafayette and pastor of St. Michael the Archangel in Crowley. He also served as Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Lafayette. For health reasons, he asked for permission to serve in a drier climate. On January 17, 1997 he was appointed as parochial vicar at Santa Maria de La Paz in Santa Fe, and then pastor of St. Anthony’s in Pecos. He
was named Chancellor, Vicar for Priests and Moderator of the Curia for the Archdiocese of Santa Fe on June 4, 2001, following then Msgr. Joseph Pepe who had been named Bishop of Las Vegas. Father Voorhies returned to Lafayette on January 3, 2005, but his health again prevented him from staying in the humid climate. He was named pastor of Our Lady of the Annunciation in May 2005 and incardinated in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe on July 12, 2006.
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A Vacation with the Lord
Our Lady of the Oaks Retreat House, Grand Coteau, La. (337) 662-5410 www.ourladyoftheoaks.com
Accepting Change Lyn Holley Doucet
Director of Spiritual Formation: Our Lady of the Oaks Retreat House
It is January 10 as I write this and the temperature is 70 degrees. I understand that by the end of the week it will be in the 40’s or lower. The LSU tigers have lost the national championship in a shocking shut-out. The Saints will play the 49ers on Saturday in their second play-off game. By the time this is published we will know more about their chances for a Super Bowl appearance. At Our Lady of the Oaks, construction is under way. Our director has to squeeze in the hammering, painting, and plumbing on Monday through Wednesday, between retreats. New private baths for each room are slowly becoming a reality. I can hear radios playing and the conversation of the painters and plumbers through my open door, just over the splash of the fountain. Change is everywhere. Writer Paula D’Arcy tells a charming story of souls gathered in heaven, preparing for their sojourn on earth. Paula tells of God speaking to those assembled, “It’s your time, little souls, time to take on a body of flesh and live on earth. It will be hard and wonderful, sad and joyful. But always remember, little souls, life is about…change.” When I first heard Paula tell this story I was taken aback. I expected other words at the end of that sentence, but not the word, “change.” Life is about change. But, you know, I am older now. My only child is (shockingly) 35 years old. I am, (shockingly) an age I’d rather not name! But change has come and continues. By adapting to change we become open, flexible, and trusting. To resist change is to suffer unnecessarily. To resist change is to play God, saying, “I know best.” To accept necessary changes with God’s help is to become holy, as life breaks us open and turns our preconceptions on their heads. Perhaps, in your life, you are facing changes. You may need time, space, and silence to adapt. Consider coming to us at Our Lady of the Oaks and praying through new adjustments. Find the quiet spaces in your soul that house ancient wisdom. Tell God all about it and let yourself be loved through the changes in your life.
Salve Regina Rosary Group Celebrates 11th Anniversary
The Salva Regina Rosary Group recently celebrated its 11th anniversary at the home of Margaret and Patrick Barnaba, who have hosted the group since its establishment. The group consists of residents within the Prairie Laurent community, including parishioners of the parishes St. Leo the Great and St. Catherine in Leonville, as well as members of the St. Jules mission chapel in Prairie Laurent. Fathers Kenneth Domingue (Pastor) and Godwin Nzeh, CMF (In Residence), and Deacon Jerome Collins also joined the group to mark this special occasion. Photo submitted by Margaret Barnaba
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Stewardship: a Christian faith journey by Connie Babin LAFAYETTE Many people may ask, “What is stewardship in the context of our Catholic faith?” In 1992, the U.S. bishops wrote a Pastoral Letter on stewardship and defined the word as a ‘disciple’s response’. They said in part that, “Stewardship is the acknowledgement and acceptance of a single truth…all we are and all we have are gifts from God. These gifts are only for our temporary use and for our use in helping our brothers and sisters in Christ. When we use our gifts, as God intended, we realize that we are ‘God’s co-workers,’ (1 Cor 3:9) partners with Christ, and can share in His ‘creative, redemptive and sanctifying work’.” Stewardship, a Christian faith journey, begins not with the needs of the Church, no matter how great those needs might be, but rather with the need for us to return to God with grateful hearts a proportionate share of the time, talent, and treasure He has entrusted and gifted to each of us. In a stewardship faith formation process, a person is asked to make a commitment to give back to the Lord a portion of his or her time through prayer, a portion of material resources through financial gifts, and a portion of a person’s talent through ministry and service to others. Scripture says, “. . .and whatever you do, in words and deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Col 3:17). Let us come together individually and as a community of believers to give thanks to God the Father by being good stewards of our God-given gifts. As members of the diocesan church, God’s people are encouraged to come together, individually and as a community of believers, to give thanks to God the Father by being good stewards of God’s gifts to us. Stewardship of Prayer, Ministry and Finance “As generous distributors of God’s manifold grace, put
your gifts at the service of one another, each in the measure he has received” (1 Pt 4:10). Stewardship of Prayer, Ministry, and Finance (time, talent, and treasure) calls each of us to use our gifts for the betterment of one another. In the quote from Peter; he tells us that we should all give, but “each in the measure he has received” or a proportionate share. The key word is proportionate; we are expected to give back to God in gratitude for the gifts he has bestowed upon us. He doesn’t ask for all. He asks for a proportionate share. This message is repeated in Dt 16:10, “The measure of your own free will offerings shall be in proportion to the blessings your Lord, your God has bestowed on you…” and again in Lk 12:48, “when much has been given to people, much will be required of them.” The word also calls us to “Honor the Lord. . .with the first fruits. . .” (Prov 3:9). Is it really a show of gratitude to God to give Him only the leftovers of our time, talent and treasure? PRAYER. The desire to improve our prayer life is with us all. We know it is the only way to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. How does prayer fit into our daily agendas? Do we postpone prayer because we allow the duties of the day to claim priority? Can we pledge ourselves to place prayer at the top of our list of daily things to do? MINISTRY. Stewardship of Ministry calls us to discover and grow in our giftedness. Each of us has a unique blend of abilities and talents. Stewardship of Ministry focuses on service and the responsibility each one of us has to use our talents to build the Body of Christ. As stewards, God calls us to reflect on our talents and put them to use to serve others whether it is in our own families, our Church parish or community. FINANCE. Stewardship of Finance calls us to take stock continued on page 17
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Martin Luther King Mass a “celebration of Gospel of Jesus Christ” by Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist was filled to overflowing for the annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mass. Father Chester Arceneaux, pastor, welcomed those in attendance and noted that the historic edifice was filled with a standing-roomonly congregation of friends, relatives, and clergy. The event honored a number of individuals who exemplified the works of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. by proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ in their lives. “We gather here in the faith that has been handed to us by our ancestors, our mothers and fathers, our grandparents, those who came here by faith learned of the Lord. We come here to acknowledge that great work of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Those who have been chosen have given witness to those works, and in
A total of 75 individuals were honored with the 2012 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award. The recipients were all recognized as a part of the annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mass, sponsored by the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Black Catholic Ministries and hosted by the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Lafayette. Photo provided by the Office of Radio/TV Ministry
imitation of Dr. King we have continued to strive to proclaim the Gospel with our lives. “He [Rev. Dr. King] was a man who proclaimed the word of God, lived that word, professed that word, died through that word. . .he was living in Jesus Christ,” Father Arceneaux pointed out.
Father Arceneaux welcomed “my brother priests who have acknowledged the work and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and
have made efforts through the life and work of their parish of an awareness of works of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” He also expressed “gratitude and thanksgiving for you who have been chosen” to receive the 2012 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award. Father Arceneaux remarked that as an experienced pastor, he “knows the sacrifices, the many hours, the many individuals who are in the background of moving the lives of our parishes—those who are witnesses to the Gospel in a silent way, those who proclaim the beatitudes with their lives. I thank you for that call and saying ‘yes.’ “You have been chosen by your pastor or parish council because you represent that becontinued on page 15
St. Mary Mother of the Church Lenten Retreat LAFAYETTE St. Mary Mother of the Church in Lafayette would like to invite everyone to attend its Lenten retreat, to be held each Tuesday during Lent, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. “Food from Heaven: The Eucharist in Scripture” will be presented by Susan Castille, a well-known “Little Rock Scripture Study” leader. Have you been told what Catholics believe concerning the Eucharist, but never had it explained to you why we believe as we do? Several years ago, Susan asked herself that question and felt the call to do more study on the Eucharist, particularly on the “Bread of Life” passage from the Gospel of John, chapter 6. She found a bible study program called “Eucharist: Food from Scripture” written by Jeanne Kuhn and published by the Word Among Us Press. After reviewing this program, she began to develop her own insights and reflections, helping her to ascertain why she believes that the Eucharist is a precious gift for each of us. During St. Mary’s Lenten retreat, Susan will share the results
of her study with those in attendance. She will also be present at all of St. Mary’s Masses during the weekend of February 2526 to offer an introduction to the retreat. The themes for the five weeks of Lent are: “Manna, The Blood covenant”; “Jesus as the Bread of Life”; and “The Passover” (celebrated with a Passover Meal led by Rabbi Barry Weinstein). The last week (just before Holy Week) will look at the “Cross in Relation to the Eucharist.” Susan’s presentations are PowerPoint directed, with a special music selection for meditation to end each evening. Her approach to scripture is a very practical one and includes an emphasis on how to apply each of the topics to everyday life; handouts will be given each evening. Lastly, those who are interested should note that Susan is scheduled to offer a concluding presentation Emmaus Journey three weeks after Easter (April 24). Everyone is welcome to attend, and further details may be requested by contacting Cindy Guidry at (337) 981-3379, ext. 231.
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Martin Luther King, Jr.
atitude of proclaiming the Gospel to the poor, the Gospel of righteousness and justice, proclaiming the Gospel as peacemakers, for those who mourn, you have been a reflection of Christ.” Father Arceneaux suggested, “It is important tonight to ask for the wisdom of God, that we who desire peace and prosperity for our children should realize the need to pray for the wisdom which will help us understand the Gospel of love, so we can truly witness to our world until there is no more poverty; until when we say ‘pro-life’ every child, every individual, is safe, that we are responding to the teachings of our Church...that Gospel of love and forgiveness.” Father Arceneaux asked the congregation to be historians, noting “we do not tell our stories any more” and visionaries
In his homily, Father Chester Arceneaux, pastor of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, praised the recipients of this year’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award by commenting, “You have been chosen by your pastor or parish council because you represent that beatitude of proclaiming the Gospel to the poor, the Gospel of righteousness and justice, proclaiming the Gospel as peacemakers, for those who mourn, you have been a reflection of Christ.” Photo provided by the Office of Radio/TV Ministry
“to hope for something greater than what we have. “In your home parishes, in your own work, whatever that may be, you must be a visionary...you must stand for righteousness and justice...you must be a witness for the Chris-
tian faith... “As people of color we have come to the point where we have people of color in leadership positions...but it’s not about color, it’s about the Gospel of love, where we recognize all people and where they
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can live their lives honestly for God and the works of Jesus Christ can truly be manifested in our whole world,” Father Arceneaux said. “You have offered your lives, your love. May the Lord continue to bless your work, helping those who mourn and weep, those who seek peace and justice and righteousness. May the Lord find the light of Christ in you. God bless you all,” he concluded. In welcoming remarks, Stephanie Bernard, director of the Office for Black Catholic Ministries, which sponsors this event, said the honorees are recognized as “people of action, people who express their unconditional love by performing services in their parishes, in hospitals, in shelters, in prisons, consoling the broken-hearted and assisting with other projects to build up their communities.”
2012 Recipients of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award St. Mary Magdalen, Abbeville St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, Abbeville St. Francis of Assisi, Breaux Bridge St. Anthony Mission Chapel, Cade Our Lady of the Assumption, Carencro St. Rose of Lima, Cecilia Our Mother of Mercy, Church Point St. Theresa of Avila, Crowley Our Lady of the Lake, Delcambre St. Martin de Porres, Delcambre St. Benedict the Moor, Duson St. Mathilda, Eunice St. Peter the Apostle, Four Corners St. Jules, Franklin St. Anne, Frilot Cove St. Charles Borromeo, Grand Coteau Our Lady of the Rosary, Jeanerette Holy Rosary/ St. Francis Cabrini, Kaplan Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Lafayette Immaculate Heart of Mary, Lafayette Our Lady Queen of Peace, Lafayette
Deacon Randy Hyde Anita Levy Betty John Allen JeanBatiste Elsie Arceneaux Dianne Borel Karen Chevalier Carmelita Lewis Rita Trailer Penny D. Chavis Austin Guidry Joseph Nolan Monroe Margaret Freeman Monica C. Esponge Lou Ella S. Pesson Kenneth J. Reaux Gloria L. Wiggins Winston J. Linden Virgil Ruffin, Sr. Dorothy L. Trahan Rose B. Trahan Joseph Jay Robertson Dorothy Frugé John Lockett Nathaniel Lockett Charles Morgan Gus Thomas Jean Franklin Dolores Lachapelle Audrey Olivier Mary V. Murray Lenette Hawk-Hill Dillon Constantine Ethel Thibeaux Dr. John Azar Carlos Boudreaux Elizabeth Alexander Johnny Alexander Matthew Batiste Rashida Henry
St. Anthony, Lafayette St. Elizabeth Seton , Lafayette St. Paul the Apostle, Lafayette St. Pius X, Lafayette Holy Family, Lawtell Immaculate Conception, LeBeau St. Catherine, Leonville St. Leo the Great, Leonville Our Lady of Victory, Loreauville St. Ann, Mallet St. Joseph, Maurice St. Joseph, Milton St. Edward, New Iberia Holy Ghost, Opelousas St. Joseph, Plaisance St. Mary, Port Barre St. Jules, Prairie Laurent Notre Dame, St. Martinville St. Martin de Porres, Scott Immaculate Conception, Verdunville St. Joseph, Ville Platte Holy Trinity, Washington St. Anne, Youngsville Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Little Theresa Court #11 Office of Black Catholic Ministries
Rubin Broussard Nelson J. Schexnayder, Jr. Bobette P. Castille Elizabeth Ann Constantine Alfred McZeal William Bellefontaine Wilma Simien Joseph Irving, Jr. Patsy Arceneaux Fabian Strauss Misty Raynette Green Harley Joseph Mitchell Joyce Polk Sorrell Don Vital Octavia Guillory Antoine Broussard Oliver Butler Elsie Rochon Jones Cynthia Payne Nelson Robertson Joseph Pat Battin Eva Brown Pearl Key Shirley Ann Rami Rosie L. Houston Ethel Brooks Young Angela Gunner Daniel Gallow Jeffery J. Boutte’ Dorian Randell Tamarica C. Trent Mable Guidry (posthumously) Melba Melancon Henrietta C. Robertson Joseph Charles
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St. Francis School contributes to Toys for Tots
Stewardship: a Christian faith journey continued from page 13
The Beta Club at St. Francis in Iota sponsored the Toys for Tots drive during the season of Advent in partnership with Iota American Legion Post 371. Mr. Pat Miller came by the school to pick up the toys that were donated by the students so they could be distributed to children from needy families. Photo submitted by St. Francis School
Sacred Heart of Jesus Lenten mission
Carmelites to host 40 hours exposition
VILLE PLATTE Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Ville Platte will host its Lenten mission from February 28 through March 1, beginning at 6:00 p.m. nightly. The mission, to be presented by Father Mark Father Mark Thibodeaux Thibodeaux, will focus on his book entitled God’s Voice Within: Discernment of the Spirit. Father Thibodeaux, who currently resides in Grand Coteau, is a renowned speaker and author of several best-selling books on prayer and spiritual life for the common person. He holds a BA in psychology from Loyola University in New Orleans and has taught theology at Jesuit College Prep in Dallas, Texas. He has also served as a counselor for children and teenagers in the Dallas and Houston areas. All are invited to attend this Lenten mission, during which Father Thibodeaux will guide participants toward a closer union with God through prayer and aid them in formulating a plan for making good decisions on the journey of faith.
LAFAYETTE The Discalced Carmelite Monastery in Lafayette will host its annual 40-Hours Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament from February 19-21. The devotion is scheduled to begin on Sunday, February 19 with the celebration of 10:00 a.m. Mass. The monastery will close each day at 4:00 p.m., but exposition will resume with Mass at 6:45 a.m. each morning on Monday and Tuesday. This year the 40-Hours exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will be dedicated to the memory of Dr. Zerben Bienvenu. Dr. Bienvenu was instrumental in beginning the Holy Hours for vocations at the monastery, and the sisters would like to offer these days as a tribute to him for his untiring zeal in praying for new vocations to Carmel. The sisters would also like to encourage as many individuals as possible to participate in these days of prayer and Eucharistic Adoration. While they are aware that the 40 Hours will coincide with many Mardi Gras celebrations in the area, they are nonetheless extending an invitation to all to take time out to visit the Eucharistic Lord, the King of kings.
February 2012 Page 17
of all financial resources that are ours. It calls us to accept the basic principle of Christian Stewardship that our financial blessings as well as our time and talent are gifts from God. In gratitude for these gifts we must dedicate a portion of these gifts to further God’s kingdom. Gratitude is one response to God’s gifts. Trust is another. Scripture tells us “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” (2 Cor 9:6) Everyone must give according to what he has inwardly decided; not sadly, not grudgingly, for God loves a cheerful giver. A guideline one might follow includes the following: Reflect on your giving habits. Is your gift planned? For most of us, unless we plan something, it doesn’t happen. You should prayerfully make a decision to plan your gift to God so that it does not become an optional expense given from
the leftovers. Planning enables us to give our “first fruits.” Proportionate? How much should you give? Start with an assessment of your level of giving now. Most of us are dismayed to discover how little that is. The proportion you choose should be sacrificial and truly commensurate to what God has given you. There is no magic number that represents the right amount! Whatever you decide should reflect your gratitude for God’s generosity. Identifiable? Make your intentions known to the administration of the parish. It will be of such value to the parish leaders in planning for the future. Make a commitment to become an identifiable giver by using Church envelopes, by issuing a check or giving online. In conclusion, people who live out their faith by practicing good stewardship declare themselves all the richer in every aspect of their lives.
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TCH “Rebellion” group takes up the cry to stand against the culture of death by Stephanie R. Martin LAFAYETTE There’s a rebellion stirring among the students of Teurlings Catholic High School in Lafayette, and they are determined to ensure that all communities take heed of their cry. Normally it’s not a good thing when the words “teenage” and “rebellion” come together, but members of the TCH Rebellion group are dead set on changing that perception. They are ready to take action, and they are not afraid to be heard as they voice their battle cry against the culture of death that is so sadly prevalent in today’s society. The TCH Rebellion group is currently represented by approximately 40 high school students on the campus. They have adopted Blessed John Paul II as their patron and are eager to support their pro-life beliefs by educating themselves on all aspects of the ministry so they can act accordingly. To aid them in their endeavors, the group recently invited Karol Meynard and Trista Littell of the Lafay-
ette Diocese’s Office of the Pro-Life Apostolate to talk to them and offer some insights into the many different aspects of the pro-life ministry. During their 40-minute presentation, the two women addressed the topics of abortion, contraception, morality and ethics, embryonic stem cell research, euthanasia, and the repeal of the death penalty. They conveyed to the students that they must all work together in order to establish a consistent ethic of life, or sew a “seamless garment” to cover and protect human life throughout all its stages. The “Consistent Ethic of Life” ideology was developed by Cardinal Joseph Bernardin in 1983. The “seamless garment” refers to the seamless robe of Jesus in John 19:23; in the pro-life context, it represents the philosophy that issues such as abortion, capital punishment, militarism, euthanasia, and social and economic injustices should be addressed with a consistent application of moral principles in regards to the value and sacred-
World Day For Consecrated Life celebrated February 4-5 in the U.S. USCCB WASHINGTON The 16th annual World Day for Consecrated Life was observed in parishes in the United States the weekend of February 4-5. The annual celebration was established by Pope John Paul II in 1997, to be marked each year on February 2, the Feast of the Presentation. The U.S. bishops voted to observe the occasion the weekend following the feast, to highlight men and women religious in consecrated life as part of weekend Mass celebrations and to enable expressions of appreciation for the service of those who have chosen the consecrated life and to pray for an increase of vocations. Archbishop Robert J. Carlson of St. Louis, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations (CCLV), heralded the role of religious. “Many consecrated men and women share Christ’s light and love through their work in par-
ish or diocesan ministries, education, health care, social services, spiritual direction and prayer,” he said. “Through their service and vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, they show that Jesus Christ is our most valued possession.” The Church recognizes several forms of consecrated life, said Father Shawn McKnight, executive director of the Secretariat. “All who embrace the consecrated life promise poverty, chastity and obedience,” he said. “Religious priests, sisters and brothers live and pray in community, and they serve the Church in apostolic service or are wholly devoted to contemplation. Members of secular institutes fulfill their promises living within, not apart from, the world. Consecrated virgins, who are consecrated by the diocesan bishop, also serve the Church while remaining within the world, and hermits observe separation from the world in solitude, prayer and penance.”
ness of human life. “The interest of these students is vital to the pro-life ministry,” observed Ms. Meynard, office director. “Many of them will be turning 18 soon; they’ll be old enough to vote, and they need to recognize
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the impact that can have on these issues.” On that note, Ms. Meynard also urged the students to get into the habit of knowing where all legislative candidates stand on pro-life matters before casting those votes in the future.
St. Bernard School 3rd-graders service project
Third graders of St. Bernard School in Breaux Bridge have adopted the St. Martin Council on Aging as their service project for the school year. Recently, the students spent an afternoon assisting participants as they played Bingo and entertaining the crowd with live Cajun Music. The service project helps these young students to learn that a selfless act like giving of their time can make a difference in a stranger’s day. Photo submitted by St. Bernard School
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“BE FIRE!” By Graham N. Smith
Got any idols lying around? I don’t necessarily mean some pagan statuette that you picked up at a flea market somewhere. It could be something entirely different, probably something that you never even thought of that way. St. Paul had his problems with folks who were pretty serious about keeping their idols in the spotlight. There was a nearriot in Ephesus because Paul and his fellow evangelists had been preaching that “gods made by hands are not gods at all.” (Acts 19:26) In Ephesus, selling little shrines of the goddess Artemis was big business, and the silversmiths who made them stirred up an angry mob against Paul and his fellow Christians. Fortunately, the town clerk managed to calm the crowd and send them all home. Idols can be like that - hard to give up - because they distract us from who God is and the relationship that He wants with us. With Lent almost upon us, now is a good time to be thinking about whether we’ve got some. As Coordinator for the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in this Diocese, I meet monthly with our Advisory Team, a group of leaders who gather to pray and plan for what we believe the Lord wants to do in the Renewal. We always begin with praising God and praying for His direction, and then listening in our hearts. That’s the exercise of the gift of prophecy. It’s one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit that we’ve all received in our sacramental baptism and is listed in 1 Cor. 12: 7-10. We aren’t “prophets” but we do get a sense of what the Lord wants us to do. Often, it takes a lot more prayer to flesh that out, but one of the things we felt the Holy Spirit was saying at this meeting was this: “Smash the idols you have before you,
and reforge them into a sharp new sword to do battle for My Kingdom.” With that was a mental image of an “idol” being shattered, the fragments of it being gathered, and then being forged into a sword. Such things are experiential, of course, and St. Paul clearly tells us to test them. (1 Thes. 5:21, 1 Cor. 14:29) Sound discernment is needed, but Paul urges us to “strive eagerly for the spiritual gifts, above all that you may prophesy” because it “builds up the church.” (1 Cor. 14:1, 14:4) This “word” about smashing “idols” was an attention-getter, and it should be. It’s consistent with Scripture (Dt. 5:7-8) and Catholic teaching (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2113). So, it prompts me to some soul searching on whether there’s something in my life that I may hold to be more important than doing what God wants of me. It doesn’t have to be made out of plaster or gold. Angus Buchan was a struggling South African farmer fighting for success his way until God got ahold of him in the late 70’s. He kept on farming, but the focus of his life changed dramatically to bringing others to the peace he found with Jesus. Sounds a little crazy, but he used to park his pickup in a field and preach to the cornstalks, envisioning a huge crowd. Now, he preaches to hundreds of thousands of men – black and white – and the Gospel is changing their hearts. He hopes it will change the country and the world. Angus Buchan has found what God calls him to do and he is pouring himself into doing it. The result is bountiful fruit for the Kingdom of God. Buchan shares hard-won wisdom with the crowds who come to hear him. “A ‘good idea’ is not always a ‘God idea,’ ” he tells them. “You need to start doing what God’s told you to do. That’s why some of us here today are unhappy - because you’re in the wrong place!” This Lent, I want to find out where the “right place” is that God wants me to be, and sweep aside anything in my life that keeps me from getting there. How about you?
February 2012 Page 19
Theresians to sponsor Day of Renewal LAFAYETTE The Roses of Acadiana District Theresians will sponsor a Day of Renewal at St. Pius X Church in Lafayette from 8:30 a.m. until 2:30 on Saturday, March 3. The day will be entitled “A Gentle Walk into Awareness” and will feature Father Mark Thibodeaux, SJ, Kitty Cleveland, and Lyn Holley Doucet. Father Thibodeaux serves as novice director for the Jesuits in formation and is an acknowledged expert on the topic of prayer and discernment. He is a well-known speaker and the author of God’s Voice Within: The Ignatian Way to Discover God’s Will, Armchair Mystic and God, I Have Issues. He lives in Grand Coteau. Kitty Cleveland is a New Orleans native and inspirational speaker, award-winning singer, songwriter and actress for over 25 years. She recently traveled to Kibeho, Rwanda with Immaculee Ilibagiza, author of the New York Times best-seller Left to Tell, to prepare for her future CD, The Rosary of Seven Sorrows. Her latest works include The Miracle of Life Rosary for Children and her CD, God Will Provide. Kitty’s engaging testimony, which takes us all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, is being heard
on EWTN Radio’s new program Magnificat Proclaims. Lyn Holley Doucet is a spiritual director, pastoral counselor, author, and speaker who lives in Maurice. Her books include When Wisdom Speaks: Living Experiences of Biblical Women, When Women Pray: Our Personal Experiences of Extraordinary Grace, co-authored with Robin Hebert, Healing Troubled Hearts: Daily Spiritual Exercises, and A Healing Walk with St. Ignatius. Her first book, Water from Stones: An Inner Journey, won a Catholic Press Award. Registration forms may be downloaded from www. acadianatheresians.com and mailed to: Roses of Acadiana District Theresians, P.O. Box 59, Youngsville, LA, 705920059. The cost is $25 per person if postmarked by February 22, or $30 at the door on the day of the retreat. UL students may participate at the cost of $15. The fee includes the provision of both breakfast and lunch during the retreat. Additional registration information may be requested by contacting Claudette Landry at (337) 2964020 or Yvette Davis at (337) 234-7329. Inquiries may also be submitted to register@acadianatheresians.com.
Catholic Daughters celebrate new members
In Franklin, the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court Assumption #1672, recently hosted a covered dish social in celebration of their newest members. Pictured above are Sandra Rogers, Corrie Uze, Barbara D. Gorman, Diane Chauvin, and Dale Nash. Not pictured are Trudy Bourgeois, Michele Chauvin, Bethany Kuhlman, and Jenny Scelfo. Photo submitted by Catholic Daughters, Court Assumption #1672
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Msgr. Irving A. DeBlanc memorialized on plaque LAKE CHARLES A bronze plaque honoring the late Msgr. Irving A. DeBlanc was recently blessed and dedicated in a ceremony at Villa Maria Retirement Center in Lake Charles. The site honors his lifelong idea of making sure the needs of parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Church, where he served a number of years, were cared for from “cradle to grave”. Msgr. DeBlanc was ordained on April 2, 1938, for the Diocese of Lafayette. His first assignment was Associate Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Ville Platte, where he was elected “Citizen of the Year” by the Ville Platte Community, and soon after to the post of State Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus. He was appointed Chaplain-Pastor of Our Lady of Wisdom Student Center at the University of Southwestern Louisiana from 1945 to 1955. He also began the formation of the Junior Newman Clubs in the public schools of the diocese. In 1952, he was made a Domestic Prelate with the title, Right Reverend Monsignor.
A plaque honoring the late Msgr. Irving A. DeBlanc was recently blessed and dedicated at Villa Maria Retirement Center in Lake Charles. Msgr. DeBlanc was ordained for the Lafayette Diocese in 1938, but served Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish in Lake Charles for 31 years. Photo courtesy of the Lake Charles Diocese
In 1955, Monsignor DeBlanc was appointed the National Director of the Family Life Bureau, Catholic Welfare Conference in Washington, D.C. His work with the U.S. Armed Forces took him around the world, including behind the Iron Curtain. In 1961, Monsignor DeBlanc returned to Southwest Louisiana, being named Pastor of Our Lady Queen of Heaven
Parish in Lake Charles. He directed the growth of the parish for 31 years. Msgr. DeBlanc worked tirelessly for the community on the local, regional, and national levels, receiving many honors and titles along the way. He served as Vicar General of the Diocese of Lake Charles and Episcopal Vicar for the West Deanery. He was a charter
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member of the Lake Area Ministerial Alliance and on the board of directors of the Lake Charles chapter of the National Conference of Catholics and Jews. In 1982, Pope John Paul II named him a Protonotary Apostolic, the highest rank of Honorary Prelate offered by the Catholic Church and usually not seen outside of the Vatican. Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans selected him as the Alumnus Who Best Exemplified the Role of Pastor Leader. In 1993, the National Federation of Priests’ Councils selected him from thousands of priests throughout the U.S.A. as “National Priest of the Year.” His legacy continues in the many wonderful ministries and facilities that he established and in the lives of those he mentored, always with a delightful sense of humor. The seminary burse he established is an extension of his commitment to God and his love of the priesthood. The plaque was dedicated by persons honored to have been considered his friends.
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February 2012 Page 21
St. Genevieve Church rededicated after renovations are completed LAFAYETTE The St. Genevieve Church Parish family has returned home. Appropriately, hundreds gathered on January 3 (Feast of St. Genevieve) to witness and elebrate the rededication of the 82-yearold church and the new sacrificial altar. The historic occasion began at the threshold of the extensively restored church. There, the project’s architect, Gene Sellers, Jr. and the general contractor Ken Fuselier formally handed over the plans of the church to Bishop Glen John Provost, DD, requesting, “…We ask that you bless our efforts since ‘unless the Lord build the house, in vain do the builders labor.”’ Bishop Provost entered in procession, accompanied by Very Reverend W. Curtis Mallet, pastor of St. Genevieve Catholic Church, Father Thomas Habetz, associate pastor, and a host of concelebrating priests (many of whom had formerly served the parish), seminarians and deacons. Three parishioners entered carrying baskets of “little bread” a symbol of St. Genevieve. The Missionaries of Charity Sisters
After much anticipation following an extensive renovation period, parishioners and friends of St. Genevieve Church in Lafayette attended its rededication on appropriate day of the Feast of St. Genevieve (January 3). Photo by PC Piazza
carried in the relics, later installed in the sacrificial altar. Bishop Provost began the service with a surprise proclamation from Bishop Michael Jarrell, DD that Father Joseph Brennan was named Pastor Emeritus of St. Genevieve Church. Father Brennan, who was present for the occasion, served St. Genevieve Parish for 15 years. The rededication rites continued as Bishop Provost placed the relics in the church’s new sacrificial altar. With holy water, he
Bishop Glen John Provost of the Lake Charles Diocese presided over the rededication ceremony. During the procession, he was accompained by Very Rev. Curtis Mallet (Pastor, St. Genevieve), Father Thomas Habetz (Associate Pastor), and a host of concelebrating priests, seminarians, and deacons. Photo by PC Piazza
then blessed the congregation, walls of the church and the altar. The walls were also anointed with holy oil. The altar was then anointed, incensed, covered and lit during the ceremony to express a visible sign of the invisible work the Lord accomplishes through His Church. Bishop Provost and the many priests present concelebrated the first sacrifice of the Eucharist on the new altar.
In his remarks, Father Mallet remembered Msgr. Teurlings and the good people who made it their labor of love to begin the new parish in 1929. He applauded the many who took up this campaign’s challenge, “It’s Our Turn Now” which honored and continued the work of those pioneers of St. Genevieve Parish. He stressed the importance and historical significance of this special evening, remarking that he had only seen one other rededication. The congregation further celebrated with a meal and music at St. Genevieve Middle School Gym, which also served as the temporary home of the church during the restoration process. Parishioners and friends were treated to gumbo and jambalaya. They also enjoyed dancing to the music of Sonny Bourg’s Band who played in loving tribute to their late leader, parishioner and friend. Mr. Bourg’s funeral was the first in the newly restored church. continued on page 22
Page 22 February 2012
The works include a five-panel depiction of the life of St. Genevieve, patroness of Paris, placed in the dome of the sanctuary. One panel features the beloved saint holding this namesake church. Mother Teresa of Calcutta is another honored subject memorializing a visit she made to the church in 1986. Sts. Joseph, Jean Vianney, and Thérèse of Lisieux are also depicted.
continued from page 21
St. Genevieve restoration The Mass of rededication was the joyful culmination of five years of studying, planning, working, waiting and sacrificing for the successful $1.8 million Capital Campaign, “It’s Our Turn Now!” St. Genevieve Church was built in 1929 as a daughter parish of St. John Cathedral on the other side of the city’s busy railroad tracks. All but $124,000 was pledged. Western and eastern wings were added to the Flemish influenced structure in 1938 and a new church hall was built in 1994. This has been the parish’s first restoration campaign. The interior of St. Genevieve Church has been completely restored and transformed through extensive repair. The plaster walls were repaired, fiber glassed, and decorated with new colors, finishes, glazes and decorative stencils. Other improvements include marble flooring, upgraded electrical and lighting systems, handicap accessibility, all new pews, altars, pulpit and
The Mass of rededication was the joyful culmination of five years of studying, planning, working, waiting and sacrificing for the successful $1.8 million Capital Campaign, “It’s Our Turn Now!” Photo by PC Piazza
sanctuary furniture. The original baptismal font, stations of the cross, and Msgr. Teurlings’ historic chair have all been restored. The St. Genevieve choir has been relocated to the original loft and will now sing to the accompaniment of a Johannus digital organ from Holland. A magnificent Romanesque tabernacle crafted in Spain is home to the Blessed Sacrament. Perhaps most notable is the
Celebrating a legacy with more than100 years of
Faith.
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Academics.
new sacred art which adorns the restored church. Wil Kolstad and David Andrews were the primary artists from Conrad Schmitt Studios, Inc. of Milwaukee. They painted the carefully selected saints and angels on canvas which has been applied to the walls. The artwork was a collaborative project designed and painted inside the church amid the restoration work to make best use of natural light and placement.
During the rededication ceremony, Father Mallet remembered Msgr. Teurlings and the good people who made it their labor of love to begin the new parish in 1929. Photo by PC Piazza
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February 2012 Page 23
Happy Valentine’s Day In honor of St. Valentine, whose feast day is celebrated on February 14, here are some dating tips that can help everyone form healthier, more loving relationships. The tips were composed by Father Jude Halphen, Director of the Office of Marriage & Family Life. TOP 10 DATING DO’S
TOP 10 DATING DONT’S
1. DO relax and have fun. Dating is supposed to be fun, so make it fun. Choose activities that you both love so you can relax, laugh, and enjoy! 2. DO groom yourself before your date. Make sure you are freshly showered, have fresh breath, and wear an outfit that flatters you. (Save your crazy outfits for when you get to know the person better.) 3. DO listen. Listening is more important than talking! Ask your date lots of questions and hone in on simliar interests. Don’t brag about yourself constantly, because that is the ultimate turn-off! 4. DO compliment your date. If you think your date looks nice, say so! Don’t focus on your date’s imperfections; focus on good points. If it looks like your date took time to get ready, compliment the effort. 5. DO be positive. Don’t complain during your date. Nobody wants to hear how miserable you are. A poor attitude can destroy a date faster than anything. 6. DO be honest and upfront. If the date didn’t click, tell your partner that you will have to think about it and that you will contact him/her again if you are interested. 7. DO be proactive. You need to take the initiative to meet people to date. Smile, be friendly, and make eye contact. This will show people you are available and will increase your chances of being asked out.
1. DON’T be late for a date. Make sure you leave early enough to deal with traffic delays or other things that could delay you. Being late only shows that you don’t respect the other person’s time and sets the date off on the wrong foot. 2. DON’T chase someone. Don’t phone, text, or email more than once a day unless you have a conversation going. Being desperate is a huge turn-off! 3. DON’T date people you think will use you. If you have money, don’t tell the other person. If a man comes on too strong for sex early on, shut him down and move on! You want someone who wants you for you, not what you can do or give. 4. DON’T lie to your date. Don’t exaggerate your income, education, or what you do. These lies will eventually come out and then you will appear as a dishonest loser. 5. DON’T come on too strong. If you are eager to get married right away, that’s okay. However, constantly talking about serious commitment issues such as marriage and children on a first date can scare your date away. 6. DON’T sit around and wait for a call. Stay busy. There is nothing more pathetic than someone who immediately drops routine for someone just met. Your goal is to have a fulfilled life to which another person can add! 7. DON’T get drunk or use drugs on your date. What kind of impression are you making if you are incoherent when you first meet? Your date will think you are like that with all people!
8. DO date creatively. Don’t go to the movies where you can’t talk or get to know your date better. Go to dinner, bowling, and then a movie; or go horseback If I speak in human and angelic tongues riding, hiking, or to an arts or music festival. but do not have love, 9. DO let your friends and family know you are dating. You never know when someone you know may try to play matchmaker for you. It may or may not work out, but you should be open to meeting someone new. 10. DO be polite and use manners. Offer to pay for all or half of the date even if you are a woman. Say please and thank you, and be respectful of the other p e r s o n ’s feelings!
I am a resounding gong or clanging symbol. And if I have the gift of prophecy and comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge; if I have all faith so as to move mountains but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away everything I own, and if I hand my body over so that I may boast but do not have love, I gain nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:1-5
8. DON’T flirt with others while on a date. This may seem like common sense, but nothing will end your date faster than you hitting on your date’s friend. 9. DON’T have sex with someone until you are married.. Marriage grounds the relationship in commitment and shows to the other the significance of trust! 10. DON’T give out too much personal information on a first date. Keep your home address and telephone number confidential until you get to know your date better, and make sure you always meet in a public place.
Page 24 February 2012
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He asked & she said yes. . . .what comes next for the happily engaged couple?
by Stephanie R. Martin LAFAYETTE There’s nothing quite like the thrill of getting engaged. The tension leading up to it can be absolutely exhilarating—from the time that a man and a woman realize they have each found “the one” in each other, right up to that exact moment when he asks, she says yes, and he slips the ring onto her finger. It’s a memory they’ll want to cherish forever, and of course it’s only the beginning. There’s also the joy of sharing the news with their families, accepting all the congratulations, setting a date for the wedding and asking friends to serve as bridesmaids or groomsmen. . . .the list of preparations goes on and on. For Catholics who intend to receive the sacrament of matrimony, those preparations will include several steps designed to help strengthen their bond before the big day. While the exact marriage preparation process will vary from parish to parish, all couples should be aware of the need to establish contact with the priest or deacon of their choice at least six months prior to their desired wedding date. This timeframe might seem excessive, but it will allow the priest or deacon to truly guide the couple in developing a stable foundation upon which to build their lives as husband and wife. During that first meeting, the priest or deacon will likely ask the couple for quite a bit of personal information to help ensure that things are in order to proceed. Sometimes there may be circumstances which could delay the wedding plans, but if that is the case, the priest or deacon will be able to direct the couple on how to go about resolv-
ing them. It is advisable that the couple address any such issues at this stage, before going on to set a date and/or book any facilities for the wedding. Here in the Lafayette Diocese, it is also necessary that the priest or deacon talk to the couple about the Prepare/Enrich process. Prepare/Enrich is a preparation tool designed to assess a couple’s strengths and weaknesses and offer them specialized exercises to
tion” portion of the Office of Marriage & Family Life section. Additionally, it is highly recommended and some pastors may require the couple to participate in Natural Family Planning (NFP) classes. In order for NFP to be implemented effectively, the couple will need to complete the class prior to their wedding date. A local schedule of 2012 NFP classes is currently available online under the Marriage & Family Life sec-
PREPARATION GUIDE FOR NEWLY ENGAGED COUPLES 1. Contact your priest or deacon at least six months prior to the wedding; he will be your guide through the marriage preparation process. 2. Register and complete the online Prepare/Enrich questionnaire as instructed. Results will be forwarded to your priest or deacon, and as a couple you will meet with him again to discuss them. 3. After completing Prepare/Enrich, which should take no more than a couple of weeks from start to finish, your priest or deacon will aid you in selecting the most appropriate Marriage Preparation course to meet your needs. 4. Go online to the Marriage & Family Life section of the diocesan website (www.diolaf.org) to schedule your Marriage Preparation course as soon as possible, and at least three months in advance of your wedding! Classes fill quickly. *Note: If this is to be a second marriage for one or both of you, please be sure to select a Marriage Preparation course which specifies the availability of the Second Union Option. 5. Determine whether or not you will be taking a Natural Family Planning (NFP) and schedule accordingly. Bear in mind that some pastors may require this. 6. Remember to address all civil obligations before your wedding day. help address those same strengths and weaknesses (see related article on page 26). All couples will also be directed to sign up for at least one of three diocesan-approved marriage preparation courses: Foundations In a Christian Marriage, Engaged Encounter, or Catholic Marriage Prep Online. Details regarding these options are available through the diocesan website (www.diolaf. org), under the “Marriage Prepara-
tion. Once the couple has completed all assessment and marriage preparation requirements, they will also need to spend some time with their priest or deacon to evaluate the experience. This evaluation will focus not only on what the couple has learned about each other and the relationship they share, but also delve into their understanding of the theology of the sacrament they are about to receive and the
responsibilities that accompany it. The couple will also be encouraged to receive the sacrament of reconciliation as one final step to prepare for the sacrament of marriage. 2012 Dates & Locations for Foundations Program: Foundations is a retreat-style marriage preparation conference sponsored by the Office of Marriage & Family Life. For registration details, please visit the office page online at www.diolaf.org Our Lady Queen of Angels Opelousas, LA *Sunday, February 12, 2012 Life Skills Day (Class is full) Sunday, July 15, 2012 Life Skills Day * Sunday, August 26, 2012 Life Skills Day Sunday, December 2, 2012 Theology Day Immaculata Center Lafayette, LA Sunday, April 22, 2012 Life Skills Day *Sunday, May 20, 2012 Life Skills Day Sunday, September 23, 2012 Theology Day *Sunday, November 4, 2012 Life Skills Day Sacred Heart New Iberia, LA Saturday, March 10, 2012 Theology Day Saturday, June 9, 2012 Theology Day Saturday October 13, 2012 Life Skills Day *Second Union Option available at this conference! All Conferences are conducted from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. $100 for Life Skills OR Theology Day $150 for both FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE Information on Engaged Encounter and Catholic Marriage Prep Online can be found at www.diolaf.org, under the Marriage & Family Life section.
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Jesus was single, too!
by Stephanie R. Martin LAFAYETTE Attention all single people! Once again the celebration of Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Married and engaged couples are undoubtedly looking forward to it, as well as a number of singles who nonetheless have a special someone with whom to share the day. For some singles, though, Valentine’s Day is more of a reason to stay in and hide than it is to celebrate. After all, who wants to be reminded of being all alone on one of the most romantic days of the year? Single people can feel a lot of pressure from society—and sometimes even from wellmeaning friends and family— to focus on a relationship they don’t even have. The popular saying that “there’s someone for everyone” often makes single life seem unnatural by comparison, and it’s largely
When living the single life gets you feeling a little down or unfulfilled, pick up your bible and take note of all the things Jesus experienced during his earthly life as a single man. He traveled, made friends, and shared the love of God through it all!
presumed that single people just need to keep looking until they find the right person. There’s nothing wrong with the optimism in that, as long as singles remember not to rely on finding their other “half” in order to feel truly whole. Sure, that’s often easier said than done amidst bouquets of roses and boxes of chocolates, but when single people need
February 2012 Page 25
A new handmaid of the Lord
“Being single. . . .allows more time to seek God continually in prayer, to teach God’s word, and to serve others as Jesus did.”
strength to help them along, they need only remember that they have been blessed with the greatest role model who ever walked the face of this earth. That’s right, ladies and gentlemen; never forget that Jesus Christ was single, too! “Jesus lived his life as a single adult,” observed Eugene Thibodeaux, Jr., a single Catholic. “Because of this, he understands every aspect of what all single people are experiencing today. Jesus demonstrated his intimacy with God by seeking him continually in prayer, by teaching God’s word, and by serving others. Being single does not necessarily have to be a terrible thing. It allows more time to seek God continually in prayer, to teach God’s word, and to serve others as Jesus did. When we focus on our relationship with Him, then all good things shall follow.” “I try to live a joy-filled life, but when those days come and I am feeling sorry for myself because I am single, I remember that I am not alone in my journey,” added Cindy LeBlanc, who is also a single Catholic. “All I have to do is call on Jesus and he is by my side. He listens to my whining, and my prayers, and he is with me to celebrate my joys—what a friend I have in Jesus!” The Acadiana Catholic would like to extend a word of thanks to Eugene Thibodeaux, Jr. and Cindy LeBlanc for their contributions to this article.
HANCEVILLE, AL The young woman formerly known as Sister Nicole Schmidt recently took the next step toward fully entering the cradle of religious life. Now known as Sister Marie Celine, she has donned the habit of a Poor Clare of Perpetual Adoration nun and entered into the formative years of the novitiate. “Often, a new name is the symbol of new beginnings in the Old and New Testaments,” stated Sister Marie Celine. “As I knelt down, I heard these words, ‘Your new name in religion is Sister Marie Celine of Our Lady, Handmaid of the Lord.’ Wow! What a blessing and privilege to be able to be here at the feet of Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament as His little handmaid, Sister Marie Celine!” Sister Marie Celine is the daughter of Lisa and Kenneth Schmidt. Prior to her family’s relocation to the Lafayette area, she attended St. Pius X Elementary School in New Orleans. At
After a year of getting to better know Jesus and the life and rule of the community of the Poor Clare of Perpetual Adoration, Sister Nicole Schmidt has entered into the formative years of the novitiate. In addition to donning the habit, she is now known as Sister Marie Celine. Photo submitted by Kenneth Schmidt
the present time, she resides at Mother Angelica’s Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Hanceville, Alabama. For further details regarding vocations to the nuns of Poor Clare of Perpetual Adoration, please visit the online site of www.olamshrine.com.
Page 26 February 2012
Marriage 101: Maintaining a Healthy Marriage by Kelley Chapman The New Year is a time we all make resolutions to better ourselves and our lives. While the majority of these resolutions consist of eating healthy and losing weight, we seem to neglect our relationships with others, including our spouses. In his book A Catholic Guide to Lifelong Marriage, Gregory Popcak suggests that a marriage must be maintained daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. We all are familiar with regular maintenance for our vehicles and even our health, but we never even consider marriage maintenance, therefore we are unaware of what needs to be done in our relationships. Here are a few steps Popcak suggests to maintain a healthy marriage throughout the year. First and foremost, ask yourself daily, “What could I do to make my spouse’s life a little easier?” Then act on the response. A good way to keep a wellbalanced marriage is to attend weekly Mass as a family, including all children. A good monthly plan is to set aside a special night for you and your spouse to bond and reconnect. Have
someone watch the children for an evening or even a weekend so you can spend special time together. Popcak suggests that every three months, the two of you should sit down and evaluate the marriage by creating a list of what needs improvement. The most important thing in this is that you have to be open to criticism and give kind criticism back. Once this task is completed, then it is time to start acting on your improvements. Keep your lists and bring them to the next three-month evaluation to see if each of you was able to stay on task. Did you improve? Did the improvements bring up other issues? Now we are at our yearly mark. It is suggested that once a year, a couple should attend a retreat, which can include a marriage encounter weekend, marriage enrichment, or just a special place you and your spouse enjoy that will include a weekend of prayer. Marriage maintenance is something we do not always think about, but with these simple steps and ideas, maintaining a loving and holy marriage is a simple task that anyone can follow and complete. If you would like more information on this topic, please refer to A Catholic Guide to Lifelong Marriage by Gregory Popcak. Questions or comments regarding this column should be submitted to Kelley Chapman at kchapman@diolaf.org.
Retreat ideas for married couples Looking for retreat ideas? Consider a Married couples retreat cruise sponsored by the Office of Marriage & Family Life through the Lafayette Diocese. This seven-day cruise through the inside passage of Alaska will be themed “The Exeptional 7%: 9 Secrets of the World’s Happiest Couples.” The retreat will be presented by Father Jude Halphen, PhD. For more information on the cruise, please visit www.globtrektravel.com. Also consider World Wide Marriage Encounter Weekend, a marriage enrichment program that gets you away from the distractions of everyday life. Spend the weekend focusing on each other through communication between husband and wife. For more information, visit www.wwme.org
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Prepare/Enrich helps engaged couples strengthen their relationships as they prepare for marriage by Stephanie R. Martin LAFAYETTE Since 2010, the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry has encouraged the use of the Prepare/Enrich program to aid engaged couples in preparing for marriage. Prepare/Enrich is a finely customized assessment tool that is easy and convenient to use with the guidance of trained facilitators. It is designed to help couples identify the strengths within their relationships, and also to guide them in addressing areas where further growth and development are needed. The program even has a version specifically designed for the Catholic couple.
package of take-home worksheets and other materials for the couple, and schedule additional meetings as necessary to complete their Prepare/Enrich experience. Overall, the process should take ap-
The Prepare/Enrich assessment tool helps couples identify the strengths within their relationships, and guides them in working on the areas in which they are in need of growth.
When a couple first contacts their local priest or deacon to discuss the prospects of marriage, they will be referred to the Prepare/Enrich online registration located under the Marriage & Family Life section of the diocesan website (www.diolaf.org). The registration process will guide them in creating their account, after which each one will complete his and her part of an online assessment. Once their individual responses are analyzed, the couple will be given a “snapshot” summary that identifies their strengths and targets areas where growth is needed. A more detailed report on the assessment is also automatically forwarded to their Prepare/Enrich facilitator, who will schedule a meeting with the couple to discuss the results. The facilitator will also prepare a customized
proximately two weeks from start to finish. The completion of the Prepare/Enrich assessment will also aid the couple in selecting the most appropriate marriage preparation course to meet their needs. While Prepare/Enrich is an extremely useful tool for marriage preparation, it does rely on trained facilitators to help couples gain the most from the experience. The Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry will host a Prepare/Enrich training seminar on from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 18 at the Immaculata Center in Lafayette. The seminar is open to all priests, deacons, and lay facilitators who wish to be trained in the utilization of this tool. Those who are interested may contact the Office of Marriage & Family for further details and registration information.
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Incomplete Seminary Burses Your Contributions Help Educate Future Priests *Billy Massie is the son of Mr. Charles W. Massie, III and Mrs. Betty Crusta Dore. He is in his first theology year at Sacred Heart School of Theology in Wisconsin and is sponsored by the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Lafayette. **Andre Metrejean is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Todd Metrejean. He is in his third theology year at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans and is sponsored by Our Lady of Wisdom Church in Lafayette. **Mark Miley is the son of Mrs. M.H. Miley. He is in his third theology year at Sacred Heart School of Theology in Wisconsin and is sponsored by Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in New Iberia. *John Miller is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Curtis Miller. He is in his first college year at St. Joseph Seminary College in Louisiana and is sponsored by St. Landry Church in Opelousas. *Rene Pellessier is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Pellessier. He is in his third college year at St. Joseph Seminary College in Louisiana and is sponsored by St. Mary Mother of the Church in Lafayette.
Photos by *Paul Kieu **P.C. Piazza
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(13,417.00) (9,324.60) (9,076.48) (7,079.73) (12,524.06) (11,000.00) (15,534.49) (1,742.76) (5,697.46) (2,105.00) (570.65) (710.00) (1,625.00) (6,310.00) (3,674.64) (3,969.00) (2,000.00) (6,590.00) (9,500.00) (2,000.00) (1,000.00) (5,000.00) (10,470.00) (4,770.00) (7,360.00) (7,400.00) (5,000.00) (2,000.00) (5,260.00) (1,942.80) (5,000.00) (3,030.00) (3,757.17) (325.00) (200.00) (3,750.00) (14,814.99) (2,272.17) (2,250.00) (450.00) (11,300.00) (9,000.00) (10,200.63) (15,194.21) (10,110.00) (7,516.49) (10,422.35) (2,180.52) (8,030.00) (5,000.00) (3,545.00) (10,000.00) (10,700.00) (100.00) (5,464.00) (3,000.00) (12,522.00) (3,403.61) (3,974.50) (2,181.50) (15,000.00) (3,930.00) (940.19) (3,200.00) (2,000.00) (3,000.00)
February 2012 Page 27
Mission on Mercy & the Beatitudes
Marriage Anniversary Mass on March 4
MERMENTAU The Sisters of Reparation to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus will present a mission on mercy and the Beatitudes from March 26-28, beginning at 6:00 p.m. each evening at St. John the Evangelist Church in Mermentau. This message will lead to a deeper appreciation for the graces received through the sacraments of mercy, the Holy Eucharist and Reconciliation. All are invited to meet the sisters and hear the special one hour talk, which will be followed by veneration of a First Class Relic of St. Faustina. Please bring your family and friends and learn more about living in the Mercy of God and witnessing to His love. For more information, please contact St. John the Evangelist Church at (337) 824-2278.
NEW IBERIA The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry will sponsor the Diocesan Marriage Anniversary Celebration Mass on Sunday, March 4 at St. Peter Church in New Iberia. The Mass, which will be celebrated by Bishop Michael Jarrell, is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Couples who are celebrating their 50th, 60th, or higher anniversaries are invited to register with the Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry in order to be honored during the Mass. Bishop Jarrell will present all registered couples with a certificate to commemorate their participation; however, the deadline to register is February 17. No registrations will be accepted after this date, or at the door on the day of the Mass. A reception in the parish hall is also planned immediately following the Mass. To register, please go online to the Office of Marriage & Family Life section of the diocesan website (www.diolaf.org) to complete and submit the registration form. Those without internet access may contact the office at (337) 261-5653.
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Page 28 February 2012
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February 2012 Page 29
Prayer and unmatched socks by Roy Petitfils Prayer time often feels like an unsuccessful sifting through my basket of unmatched socks, saying “forget it”, throwing all of my unmatched socks in the trash and heading to Wal-Mart to buy a new batch. Today was much the same. Of the 50 minutes I sat on the couch in my office to pray, my time was spent roughly like this: • 20 minutes thinking about the stuff I have to get done. • 3 minutes looking for the perfect pen and paper to record these interruptions. • 2 minutes doodling because I’d forgotten what I wanted to remember. • 5 minutes beating myself up for things that won’t get done, or done to my perfectionist standards. • 1 minute feeling guilty that my wife has to work and I don’t provide enough for her to stay home with our youngest son. • 1 minute thinking about emails I received about my last article telling me how wonderful I am. • 1 minute thinking about a recent Facebook post which prompted one person to message me suggesting I’ve forsaken my faith and God, and was pretty sure I was
on the verge of inventing a new heresy. • 1 minute on my iPhone looking for an app on prayer. • Laughed when I thought about my friend choking on a piece of pizza last night when his mother in law greeted me saying “I hear you’re a renowned speaker. And then seeing my wife’s face which indicated she could substitute a number of other words for ‘speaker’ and knowing she’d be more correct. • Felt a sudden pain in my side and worried for several minutes I was having appendicitis. Realized it was a result of the bologna sandwich, cheese puffs and diet coke I had slammed down for lunch in honor of my late cousin Howard–who when we were four I allegedly (according to HIS mother) slammed a real phone over his head for finishing his cheese puffs and reaching into my plate and taking two of mine. Belly laughed out loud because I’d nearly done it again three years ago when we were 34. • Concluded I wasn’t praying well and I should do something productive. • Stood up and threw darts—missed the board, hit my diploma and sat back down to give God another chance. • Felt sad. Sensed God put his arm around me and say nothing. • Started to cry. • Stopped crying. • Sensed God say, “I’m really sorry about Howard.”
• Nodded and said, “It’s good to know you noticed and care.” • Felt awkward, thought about changing the subject to darts, but couldn’t bear to hear God validate the fact that I suck at darts. • Heard God say, “I know how much you loved him. I can’t imagine how much you miss him.” • Started crying again. • Got up to start working and said, “I may not be here tomorrow, or the next day. And Sunday, as you know, I focus more on the boys than I do you, so… maybe M o n day?” • God smiled. • “But I may be back tomorrow, it just depends how I feel.” I said. • Sensed God say, “I’ve got an iEverything now and have Hanging with Friends and Angry Birds, so I have plenty to keep me busy while I wait. Don’t worry about me. I’m good. I’ll be here when you’re ready.” • “Thanks.” Prayer: Lord, help me to pray as I can, not as I cannot. Amen. Roy Petitfils is a speaker, writer and counselor who practices at Pax Renewal Center in Lafayette, LA. Contact him at roypetitfils@yahoo.com.
Eucharist gives strength to those who are weak, weary, lost, pope says By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) The Eucharist sustains those who are tired, worn out or lost in the world and transforms human sin and weakness into new life, Pope Benedict XVI said. Speaking at his weekly general audience Jan. 11, the pope focused on Jesus and the Last Supper, where he instituted the Eucharist, “the sacrament of his body and blood.” “Jesus’ gift of himself anticipates his sacrifice on the cross and his glorious resurrection,” the pope said. He offers his life before it is taken from him on the cross and as such “transforms his violent death into a free act of giving himself for others. Violence immediately is transformed into an active, free and redemptive sacrifice,” the pope said.
The pope said that at the Last Supper, Jesus prayed for his disciples, especially Peter, warning him, according to the Gospel of Luke, that “Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat.” But Jesus prayed that his disciple’s faith would not fail and that Peter, who would betray Jesus, would return to strengthen the others’ faith, the pope said. “The Eucharist is food for pilgrims, which becomes (a source of) strength also for those who are tired, worn out and lost,” he said. Jesus’ words at the Last Sup-
per were meant to help Peter, and others who stray, find the strength to be able to follow Christ once again, he said. Taking part in the Eucharist today is “indispensable for Christian life” and is still a source of strength so that “our life is not lost, despite our weakness and our infidelity, but is transformed.” The pope asked that people join their prayers with the Lord’s and offer their lives, “transform our crosses into free and responsible sacrifice, of love for God and our brothers and sisters.”
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Lay Carmelites welcome new member into community
Marie-Lynn Conque Martin recently made her permanent profession as a member of the Lay Carmelite Community of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel #1903. Pictured above from left to right are: Sister Laura Melancon, Elaine Simon, Gerard Martin, Marie-Lynn Conque Martin, Ariane Martin, Geoffrey Goudeau, and Father Steve Ugwu. Photo submitted by Janice Howard
Vermilion Catholic announces winners in theology fair Congratulations to all of the winners in the annual theology fair at Vermilion Catholic School in Abbeville. Freshmen class projects were presented on the teachings of the Old Testament. Winners were: Hung Hoang and Braxton Cessac (first place), Abbey Zaunbrecher and Elizabeth Daspit (second place), and Anna Dartez and Halie Wright (third place). An honorable mention was also awarded to Samantha Cunningham and Lili Caoi, and Caroline David and Maci Ardoin.
Sophomore class projects were based on Christology, the life of Christ. First place was given to the team of Conner Menard, Katie Frith, Claire David, and Leryn Detraz. Second place went to the team of Matt Broussard, Tyler Lege, Jacob David, and Rilee Trahan. Third place was awarded to the team of Danielle Laperouse, Paige Patout, Andrea Delhommer, and Emily Husband. In the junior class projects on church models, first place went to the team of Natalie Camel, Sloan Trahan, Lindsey Sagrera, and Katie Meaux.
Black History Month at Immaculate Heart of Mary LAFAYETTE Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Lafayette celebrates Black History Month this year with a series of themes to cover the entire month of February. On February 5th, parishioners celebrated the legacy of their faith and culture by focusing on some of the many sacrifices made by their ancestors. On February 12th, the parish youth will assume a leadership role at the 9:00 a.m. Mass. The church family will celebrate the gifts and talents of these youth members, challenging them to live the legacy of faith left by their ancestors, and to pass on values, gifts, talents, and leadership to the next generation. On February 19th, the parish will celebrate and recount some of the many experiences and accomplishments in Black history for which all of America should be grateful. On February 26th, the par-
ish will celebrate the gift of music, especially within the black Catholic experience, with special emphasis on songs recorded by one of Immaculate Heart of Mary’s great musicians, the late John Nezey. This celebration will include music ministers Dorsey Forman, Rose Hersey, Francis LeBlanc, Leon C. Winters, Paul Wiltz, and others. The Immaculate Heart of Mary faith community was established in 1934 as the first parish to be assigned AfricanAmerican priests. Since that time, the parish has been a mission of the Society of the Divine Word Missionaries. The current pastor is Very Rev. Thomas A. James, S.V.D., and the associate pastor is Father Anderson de Souza, S.V.D. Father Richard Kalinowski, S.V.D. is also in residence, and Deacon Anthony Ozene serves as deacon.
There was a tie for second place, with the award being given to the team of Jenci Sellers, Dillon Constantine, Skylar Noel, and Zon Morris; as well as the team of John McLain, Joey Faulk, Morgan Theriot, and Ellie Boudreaux. Third place went to the team of Lauren Duhon, Rebecca Sagrera, Dustin Desormeaux, and Tyler Frederick. An honorable mention was also given to the team of Haley Jordan, Kyrie Collins, James Luquette, and Dustin Derouen. Senior class projects were focused on morality and vocations. First place
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was awarded to the team of Emile Chiasson, Michelle Noel, Christine Blanchard, and Trey Toups. Second place went to the team of Josh Wilson, Craig Lewis, Courtney Nash, and Rebekah Young. Third place was given to the team of Amy Bares, Amy Williams, Leslie LaCour, and Mikyla Campbell. Honorable mention also went to the team of Caleb Zaunbrecher, Ryan Domingue, Eric Patout, and Derek Broussard; as well as to the team of Regan David, Natalie Guidry, Bailey Richard, and Markie Suire.
Registration for Cycle 2 of VLCFF closes Feb. 22 LAFAYETTE Registration for Cycle 2 of the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) will close on Wednesday, February 22. These online classes will be conducted from February 26March 31; residents of the Lafayette Diocese may participate at the cost of $40 per course, and successful completion may be applied toward a Certificate in Catechesis or continuing education hours as required by the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Catholic Schools. Cycle 2 courses will include: Catholic Beliefs, Introduction to Practical Morality, Leadership in Ministry, and Sacrament of Marriage: A Holy Calling. A listing of all courses being offered during Cycle 2 is available online at
www.vlc.udayton.edu. Cycle 3 of the VLCFF, which is scheduled for April 15-May 5, will offer seminars only. These will include: Designing a Parish Catechetical Plan; On Bended Knee; Our Hearts Were Burning; Overview of the GDC & NDC; and Theological Reflection: Key to Connecting Faith and Life. Registration for the Cycle 3 seminars will open on February 28 and close on April 11. Seminar descriptions, as well as a schedule of the remaining 2012 cycles, are also available online. 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.
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February 2012 Page 31
Vatican issues recommendations for celebrating Year of Faith by Carol Glatz Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) In an effort to help Catholics have a better and correct understanding of their faith and become authentic witnesses to Christ, the Vatican issued a list of pastoral recommendations for celebrating the upcoming Year of Faith. The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith released a “note” Jan. 7 outlining the aims of the special year and ways bishops, dioceses, parishes and communities can promote “the truth of the faith,” the congregation said. It also announced that within the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization, a secretariat would be set up to suggest and coordinate different initiatives. The new department will be responsible for launching a special website for sharing useful information on the Year of Faith. Pope Benedict XVI wanted the Year of Faith, which runs from Oct. 11, 2012, to Nov. 24, 2013, to help the church focus its attention on “Jesus Christ and the beauty of having faith in him,” it said. The church is well aware of the problems facing the faith” and recognizes that without a revitalization of faith rooted in a personal encounter with Jesus, “then all other reforms will remain ineffective,” it said citing the pope’s Dec. 22 address to the Roman Curia. The year is meant to “contribute to a renewed conversion to the Lord Jesus and to the rediscovery of faith,
so that the members of the church will be credible and joy-filled witnesses to the risen Lord, capable of leading those many people who are seeking it to the door of faith,” the note said. Critical to renewing one’s faith and being a credible witness is having a firm and correct understanding of church teaching, it said. Because the year’s start, Oct. 11, coincides with the anniversaries of the opening of the Second Vatican Council in 1962 and the promulgation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church in 1992, it would be an auspicious occasion to make the work of the council and the catechism “more widely and deeply known,” it said. The congregation said the pope “has worked decisively for a correct understanding of the council, rejecting as erroneous the so-called ‘hermeneutics of discontinuity and rupture’ and promoting what he himself has termed the ‘hermeneutic of reform,’ of renewal in continuity” with the church and tradition. The catechism “is an integral part of that ‘renewal in continuity’” by embracing the old and traditional while expressing it “in a new way, in order to respond to the questions of our times,” it said. The note offers pastoral recommendations aimed at aiding “both the encounter with Christ through authentic witnesses to faith, and the ever-greater understanding of its contents,” it said. Among the initiatives will
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be various ecumenical events at the Vatican aimed at restoring unity among all Christians, including “a solemn ecumenical celebration in which all of the baptized will reaffirm their faith in Christ,” it said. There will be special Masses at the Vatican to mark the opening and closing of the Year of Faith, it added. Some recommendations for bishops, dioceses and parishes include ensuring there be better quality catechetical materials that conform to church teaching; promoting Catholic principles and the significance of Vatican II in the mass media; hosting events that bring artists, academics and others together to renew dialogue between faith and reason; offering penitential celebrations; and putting a focus on liturgy, especially the Eucharist, it said. It also called for Vatican II documents, the catechism and its Compendium to be re-
published in more affordable editions and to distribute the texts digitally and via other “modern technologies.” The congregation said it wanted to promote the recommendations because the office’s “specific functions include not only safeguarding sound doctrine and correcting errors but also, and foremost, promoting the truth of the faith.” The congregation’s note, drafted on the orders of Pope Benedict, was written in consultation with other Vatican offices and with the help of the Year of Faith preparatory committee. The committee, which operates under the auspices of the doctrinal congregation, includes U.S. Cardinals William J. Levada, congregation prefect; Francis E. George of Chicago; and Canadian Cardinal Marc Ouellet, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops.
Page 32 February 2012
Lenten journey takes on deeper meaning through Catholic Relief Services’ Operation Rice Bowl
CRS Baltimore, MD On February 22, 2012, Catholics around the world will begin their Lenten journey. For many Catholics in the United States, the spiritual journey of Lent is enriched by their participation in Catholic Relief Services’ Operation Rice Bowl. For the six weeks of Lent, Operation Rice Bowl introduces participants to countries where poor communities are being strengthened by the work of the Catholic Church through Catholic Relief Services. A collection of short videos, personal stories, and simple meatless recipes from each country, along with a daily guide, provides reflections and ideas to enhance the Lenten experience for Catholics of all ages. “With a broad collection of resources, guides and activi-
ties, CRS’ Operation Rice Bowl is ready-made for parishes, schools and families to incorporate into their Lenten tradition,” said Joan Rosenhauer, CRS executive vice president of U.S. Operations. For more than 35 years, CRS’ Operation Rice Bowl has offered Catholics in the United States a way to connect with their brothers and sisters in need around the world through the traditional Lenten practices of prayer, fasting and acts of charity. Nearly 13,000 faith communities across the United States make CRS’ Operation Rice Bowl part of their Lent experience each year. This year, participants in CRS’ Operation Rice Bowl will meet a farmer from Madagascar whose crops were improved by a new village water pump; a young man from Vietnam who learned a vocation in a school
started for students with disabilities; a family in El Salvador who have clean water coming from a faucet in their house for the first time; a woman in Zambia who joined a microfinance group and saved enough money to open a market stall; a teenage girl in India who taught her family to use a nutritional food supplement and improved the health of her younger siblings; and a woman from Arlington, Virginia, who was helped by a local emergency food assis-
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tance program called Feed My Sheep. Each of these programs is supported by money raised through CRS’ Operation Rice Bowl: 75% is sent to CRS for overseas humanitarian programs and 25% remains in the U.S. diocese for local food programs. CRS’ Operation Rice Bowl materials are available in English and Spanish online at orb. crs.org.
St. Michael School Achiever/Supporter of the Year
St. Michael School in Crowley is proud to announce its 2011 Achiever/Supporter of the Year, Mollie and Bobby Hanks. The Hanks have been active parents in the school ever since their first child entered the school 10 years ago. Pictured above from left to right are Myra Broussard (Principal), Father Gary Schexnayder (Chancellor), Mollie and Bobby Hanks, and Father Jared Suire (Associate Pastor). Photo submitted by St. Michael School
Acadiana Catholic
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Haitian quake survivors leaving camps for a place they can call home by Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) It took almost two years, but Haitian earthquake survivor Sonya Mallebranche has a place she can call home again. It’s only three rooms, making it less than perfect, Mallebranche admits, especially for four adults and three toddler grandchildren. But Mallebranche, 51, finds it far better than living in a tattered tent in the fetid, dusty camp known as Petite Place Cazeau alongside hundreds of others displaced by the powerful Jan. 12, 2010 earthquake that leveled much of the region around Port-au-Prince. “I’m so much more comfortable. Now I can sleep peacefully. Now I have my family with me,” Mallebranche told Catholic News Service Jan. 5 via cell phone from her new home. “I am really happy to have that house,” she said through a translator. Mallebranche’s family was among 460 families that have moved from the camp into long-term housing since November under a pilot program initiated by Catholic Relief Services, the U.S. bishops’ overseas relief and development agency. Called Ann Ale Lakay, Creole for Let’s Go Home, the program is designed to address a variety of needs in addition to long-term housing by preparing camp dwellers frustrated by months of living in squalid conditions for a return to some sense of normalcy. The program incorporates two professional psychologists and 12 social workers to guide earthquake survivors in resolving conflict, managing money and overcoming the
sense of loss that lingers two years after disaster disrupted their lives. “We realized there was a lot of fear about moving out of the camps, about restarting their lives after the earthquake,” explained Luke King, CRS country director in Haiti. “People were concerned about how to go about returning to a normal life.” Samuel Petit-Homme, deputy resettlement manager for CRS, helps
ment. King said some heads of families have proven to be strong negotiators, coming to terms on an agreement that costs less than the $500 being offered. Families can then pocket the difference while CRS pays the rent directly to property owners. Families also get health insurance coverage for six months through the program as they get settled, said Niek de Goeij, head of programming cen-
Residents of Petite Place Cazeau camp for Haitians displaced by the powerful January 2010 earthquake load a truck with belongings in December as they move to a new permanent home. A pilot program initiated by Catholic Relief Services is helping families return to normal life with the help of counseling, rent vouchers and health care support. (CNS photo/courtesy CRS)
administer the program, which he said takes about six weeks from introduction to moving day. Before camp residents are enrolled, social workers and psychologists work with camp and local political leaders to explain how it works and what it’s meant to accomplish, he said. As families complete the program, they are offered a $500 voucher to assist with their relocation. They are urged to approach a property owner to negotiate a yearlong rental agree-
tral for CRS in Haiti. The program stresses the importance of budgeting for that expense -- about $30 for six months of family coverage -- so that when a health care need arises, families are not faced with the choice of bypassing a visit to a doctor or to sell a possession to cover care. De Goeij explained that the resettlement program was a natural follow-up to the agency’s effort that saw about 10,500 transitional shelters built at several locations around
the quake zone. While that endeavor resulted in more than 50,000 Haitians being relocated from camps, agency officials realized people needed additional assistance to re-establish their lives, he said. “It’s an emotional experience to see the people move out,” he said. “People cheer when they move out of the camps because they’re getting into a regular house. “People doubt whether Haitians are motivated to move out. To me it’s an eye-opener to see that when people have a genuine opportunity to exit the camps and (move) into their neighborhood, they jump at it,” he said. The resettlement program has put a small dent in the camp population in and around Port-au-Prince. Aid agencies and the Haitian government estimate that about 500,000 people -- one third of the 1.5 million left homeless by the quake -- remain in the camps. But King said he is seeing more urgent efforts by various agencies working with the government to provide permanent housing. “The government has gotten very involved in this return process as well,” he said. “There’s a lot of momentum at this time to help people return home.” Mallebranche said she now lives in more peaceful surroundings, giving her plenty of time to play with her grandsons, a 15-month-old and twin 3-year-olds. The daily headaches she attributed to the excessive heat in the camp have disappeared. And the putrid smell of the camp that she said forced her to leave her tent during daylight hours is gone. “I’m feeling really good,” she said.
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A group of pro-lifers did not save my child’s life: they saved mine those 15 minutes. The memory as I lay on that table listening to that horrible suctioning noise, scared out of my mind and crying about what I was doing, comes back to me often with details so vivid, it’s as though it had just happened last week. My reasons for being there are irrelevant, my justification convoluted. Everyone in a similar situation has their own deep rooted reason. Everyone has their own story with circumstances that led them to the decision of not going forward with the birth
The Acadiana Catholic is honored to respectfully share the following account, written by a past participant of a Rachel’s Vineyard retreat weekend. The weekends are sponsored by the Lafayette Diocese’s Office of the Pro-Life Apostolate in order to support post-abortion healing. While the writer’s identity must remain anonymous to protect her privacy, the staff does wish to thank her for this heartfelt contribution. Readers should also note that the photos used are ones which the participant took during her retreat weekend. Upon reviewing the photos later on, she saw that they symbolized the letters L-O-V-E. Most likely, it will always be difficult to drive past a church where the front lawn looks like a scaled-down version of Arlington Cemetery. I never look directly at the tiny crosses but their image still burns into my brain miles after I have driven by. Most people know by now what all those small white crosses symbolize. I have been aware of them for quite some time. Regardless of the church, regardless of the city, one of the crosses planted deep into the ground represents my unborn child. It is that same cross that has caused me more unbearable guilt than I thought I would ever have to endure. My life is divided between the person I was prior to those 15 minutes on a Planned Parenthood’s “surgical procedure” table and the person I became after
of a child that briefly took life inside their body. Where I am now is the bigger story, the more noteworthy story. My road is very clichéd, a broken woman running from the pain of her past with an enormous burden of sadness, regret, anger, despair, and shame all weighing down like one of the boulders from Stonehenge. I have carried that unbearable chunk of rock on my shoulders and in my heart for over 17 years. I have been on a quest to get the truth and the answers to complex religious questions since I was 20 years old. Being pregnant in an abortion clinic, without the comfort of a higher power, made me feel like I was the loneliest woman in the world. My story of recovery begins the day I decided to face the truth and come to terms with the boulder on my back. In my kitchen late one night, sitting in my favorite rocker, I looked around at the chaos of my clutter, the ugliness of my guilt, and the silence of my shame. Something deep within me screamed “enough is
enough—it is time to move on!” I took pride that I had pulled through the toughest years of my life and came out on the other side very much alive and wanting to live. I felt as though my mind and body were pretty close to being completely repaired. I gave all the credit of this accomplishment to myself. Here enters the biggest lie of all. In spite of fixing all that I thought needed to be fixed, I had not repaired my heart. I had never forgiven myself. It was the very thing that had led me down a road of self-destruction. I was convinced my life was finally “together” but I had still not addressed the REAL issue. I needed to forgive myself. Around the same time I realized I might still be in trouble emotionally, a neighbor who had been trying to get me to attend her church walked over to visit and began telling me about a friend of hers who went to “a special women’s retreat” and how she came back a different person with such
a noticeable inner peace. My knee-jerk response was I just was not a retreat kind of person. My neighbor added, “I know, but she just seems so different now since she’s back that I thought maybe you could find something like that, that might help you.” Driving through the front gate was tough, real tough. I had a moment of confusion when I assumed a group of women including myself would all stand in a circle among the fish, flowers, fountains, and statues of Mary, saying rosaries and singing Kum-
baya as the means to save our souls. I quickly discovered this was NOT the case. There is no need to describe every activity or every moment of clarity for me at that Rachel’s Vineyard retreat. Every story told by the other retreatants, every tear shed, every hug, every reading, every piece of music, every staff member, every meal, every smell, every sound on the grounds themselves, every word I wrote in my letters, every piece of advice, answer, or explanation, every act of kindness resonated deep in my soul. I soaked it up and have locked it there indefinitely. It is locked away in a special place within me that replaced all the sadness, shame, guilt, hate, anger, despair, and darkness that had immobilized me for years. I learned to forgive myself because I was worthy of being forgiven. I found the peace and love within me that goes hand in hand with forgiveness. On the last day at Rachel’s Vineyard, I read my letter to my unborn child in a very emotional memorial service which gave me greatly needed closure. As I drove home through that same gate, I felt a huge weight had been lifted and I was indeed a different person. I had achieved everything I had set out to do with Rachel’s Vineyard. Never once during the entire retreat did I feel like I had someone else’s belief pushed on me or condemnation shoved in my face. It was a serene, loving, nonjudgmental safe haven that provided the perfect atmosphere for healing a wound that could not heal on its own. continued on page 35
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A group of pro-lifers
Evening of Affirmation for caregivers
continued from page 34 Having given credit to myself in the past, this time I could not do so. This time, I have to give the entire credit to something greater than myself for helping me find the peace and love I have been missing for a very long time.
RAYNE The Family Life Center of St. Joseph Church in Rayne will host “An Evening of Affirmation for Caregivers” beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 27. The presentation will be made by Marlene Foreman, ACNS-BC, ACHPN, Clinical Nurse Specialist/Education Coordinator with Hospice of Acadiana. Ms. Foreman will offer ways to assist and affirm those who, for whatever reason, have become caregivers; of elderly parents/relatives, spouses, the chronically ill, disabled children/siblings or to any individual who is in need of care. There is no cost or need to register in order to attend, and the invitation is extended to all. This evening may be credited as a Level III or IV:
The Office of the Pro-Life Apostolate will sponsor its next Rachel’s Vineyard retreat during the weekend of March 9, 2012. The location remains undisclosed in order to protect the privacy of its participants; however, those who wish to take part are encouraged to contact the office at (337) 2615607 for further information.
Carencro Catholic students support pro-life ministry
Carencro Catholic eighth grade and pre-k students tied pink and blue ribbons to the crosses in front of St. Peter Church in honor of Pro-Life Month. Each cross represents 1,000,000 aborted babies. Photo submitted by Carencro Catholic School
Marlene Foreman
diolaf.org.
February 2012 Page 35
Parish class or workshop (3 credits). For further details, please contact Janeth Harrington at (337) 2580073 or JHarrington@
Annual Lenten Day of Recollection GRAND COTEAU The Alumnae Association of the Academy of the Sacred Heart will host a Day of Recollection on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. ending with Mass in the Academy Chapel. Father Howard J. Blessing will serve as retreat director. The Day of Recollection is open to individuals of all religious backgrounds and faiths. There is no fee to participate, although donations are appreciated. The Alumnae Association of the Academy will provide beverages and participants should bring a bag lunch. For further information, contact Linzee LaGrange at (337) 662-5275 or llagrange@sshcoteau.org.
Theology on Tap LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry would like to encourage all young adults to participate in Theology on Tap. Meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at Tsunami Sushi in Lafayette. Each meeting features a different guest speaker, with Dr. Kathryn Elliot to address the group at the next meeting on February 15. Other upcoming speakers include: Sisters of Reparation—March 21 Ed Boustany—April 18 Katie & Kyle Hodges—May 16 For additional information about Theology on Tap, please contact the Office of Marriage & Family Life Ministry at (337) 261-5653.
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Opelousas Catholic students embrace their creative spirit by Fr. Paul Bienvenu OPELOUSAS Opelousas Catholic School strives to foster Catholic formation in a way that sees all school subjects as part of the development of young Christian men and women. The school is well accustomed to challenging its students to recognize the connection between their lessons in all of their subjects with their mission to live the Gospel message. To make this point in a special way, the school arranged a very unique field trip for the students of its sophomore, junior, and senior level art classes. The school’s art teacher, Cindy Pitre, in collaboration with the school’s Religion Coordinator John Braham, arranged for the students to see an exhibit of sacred art created by a variety of mid and late 20th century artists from around the world. To make this happen, they arranged with Our Lady of Mercy Church in Opelousas to help them show the artwork. The one-day art exhibit,
Our Lady of Mercy Church and its pastor, Father Paul Bienvenu, recently hosted a special exhibit of sacred art for high school art students of Opelousas Catholic School. Photo submitted by Father Paul Bienvenu
entitled “The artist and the image, the message through the glass. (Images inspired and informed by stained glass)”, showcased 15 works of art from a variety of artists. Included in the exhibit were graphic works by French Modern masters, Marc Chagall and Georges Rouault, along with
bronze sculptures by Sebastian Tamari (French) and Ian Trowell (English/Canadian), as well as oil paintings by Michel-Marie Poulain (French) and Otto Rothenburgh (American). Msgr. Paul Metrejean also loaned his ordination chalice to the exhibit. It was created by a Spanish Benedictine monk, Padre Gregorio, at the Montserrat Abby in Barcelona and features a stained glass design created by overlaying silver with vitreous enamel. The exhibit brought its message home by featuring a variety of works by Carencro artist Mary Adelaide McIntyre-Blake, whose work can also be found throughout the churches, chapels, parish halls, and cemeteries of the La-
fayette Diocese. Her work was represented by sculptures cast in lead and cast stone, paintings and drawings, and stained glass. Of unique interest to the students was a sketchbook from this artist’s studio, in which they were able to see her creative process and appreciate the lessons they learn in the classroom to develop their own creative talents. “We are all the unique creations of the Master Artist, God, Our Heavenly Father. It gives me great pleasure to see Opelousas Catholic teach this lesson to our students along with its corollary, and that is, we are called to be co-creators, reflecting God’s beauty through the beauty of our living and our loving, in all that we say and do,” said Father Paul Bienvenu, pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Church.
The purpose of the art exhibit was to challenge the student to recognize the connection between their lessons in the classroom and their mission to live the Gospel message. Photo submitted by Father Paul Bienvenu
The one-day art exhibit featured a total of 15 works of art from a variety of mid and late 20th century artists. Photo submitted by Father Paul Bienvenu
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Sisters of Divine Providence mark 250th anniversary LAFAYETTE Local members of the Sisters of Divine Providence (CDP) are pleased to join in the worldwide celebration of the 250th anniversary of the religious order. The Sisters of Divine Providence mark the origin of their humble beginnings as January 14, 1762, when Father John Martin Moye sent a woman named Marguerite Lecompte to Beley, France. It was there, alone and without possessions, that she relied on God’s providence to bring Christ’s presence and learning skills to the poor of the area. Today there are more than 3,000 Sisters of Divine Providence belonging to a total of seven congregations located throughout the world. They proudly embrace Blessed John Martin Moye as their founder and father, and have planned a year-long celebration in memory of his efforts in 1762 to send
young women to educate the poor in the small villages of France. Those efforts came closer to home in 1866, when two sisters of the order traveled to Texas and established a school in Austin to teach immigrant children. They would also later open a school in San Antonio, where they would
The Sisters of Divine Providence recognize the anniversary of their establishment as January 14, 1762. establish their headquarters at Our Lady of the Lake Convent. Since that time, the order has gone on to establish and/or teach in more than 160 schools throughout Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, California, and New Mexico. Certainly the Catholic school system of the Lafayette Diocese has ben-
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efited from this presence. Over the years, members of the Sisters of Divine Providence have gladly served at St. Genevieve and Teurlings Schools in Lafayette, as well as at St. Cecilia School in Broussard, St. Francis School in Iota, and Notre Dame High School in Crowley. Several of the sisters have also been vital contributors to the diocesan staff, serving at one time or another in various roles such as Vicar for Religious, diocesan director for the Propagation of the Faith, and executive secretary. To learn more about the Sisters of Divine Providence, please visit www. cdptexas.org.
2012 RCIA workshops LAFAYETTE The Lafayette Diocese’s Office of Christian Formation would like to remind everyone of three upcoming RCIA workshops for the year 2012. These free workshops will address several of the questions that constantly arise from various parishes in the diocese and will thus provide a forum in which they may gather and discuss common problems, and also learn from one another’s experiences. On April 21, St. Mary Church in Lafayette will host the “Annulments” workshop from 9:00-10:30 a.m. On June 16, Sacred Heart Church in Broussard will host
Artwork by Sister Mildred Leonards, CDP
“Prayer in the RCIA” from 9:0010:30 a.m. On August 25, Holy Ghost Church in Opelousas will host “Rites in the Catechumenate” from 9:00-10:30 a.m. All parishes that conduct the RCIA process are encouraged to attend. Those who are interested should register with Lynne Broussard by calling (337) 261-5674. 2012 RCIA Workshops Apr. 21 St. Mary Church, Lafayette “Annulments” Jun. 16 Sacred Heart Church, Broussard “Prayer in the RCIA” Aug. 25 Holy Ghost Church, Opelousas “Rites in the Catechumenate”
Acadiana Catholic
Red Mass speaker addresses attacks on religious liberty by Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE Bishop Ronald Herzog, celebrant and homilist at the annual Red Mass, appealed to the lawyers and judges in attendance to “preserve those principles so much a part of our history, our life in this country.� Bishop Herzog, who heads our neighboring Alexandria diocese, expressed concern “at the growing trend,� he detected “to whittle away at the basic liberties of living our faith,� which he sees “being basically undermined.� “You have the opportunity,� he told jurists, “to use your skills, your expertise, your experience to counteract this trend.� Bishop Herzog also noted that hospitals with religious connections are forced to authorize procedures contrary to these religious principles. “You can help preserve religious liberty,� he emphasized, “so that people can live and work in conformity with their conscience without being criminalized, penalized, ridiculed or otherwise attacked.� The annual Red Mass in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist marks the opening of the 2012 civil court celebrations in Acadiana. Based on traditions dating back to the 13th century, it is celebrated to invoke the guidance of the Holy Spirit for peace and justice. In his opening remarks, Bishop Herzog commended the lawyers and
judges in their concern for the protection and blessing of those they served. “I know you are concerned for justice for all,� he said. Participating in the Mass were members of judiciary, and local bar association with priests of the diocesan tribunal as concelebrants with Bishop Herzog. The first reading was given by Judge Kristian D. Earles, chief judge of the 15th Judicial District. The Gospel was read by Deacon Timothy Maragos of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Lafayette, a member of the Lafayette Bar Association. The general intercessions were led by Larry Curtis, president of the Lafayette Bar Association. Darcy Logan, president of the Lafayette Bar Association Auxiliary, and Greg Logan brought up the gifts. Dave Domingue was cantor, Tom Niel was organist, and special music was offered by the Gospel choir directed by Harold D. Register, Jr. The processional hymn invoked the Holy Spirit, “Come Holy Ghost.� The meditation hymn at Communion, “America the Beautiful,� invoked divine guidance with the words, “God shed His grace on thee and crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea.� After the Mass, lunch was served in the Cathedral Center hosted by the Lafayette Bar Auxiliary and sponsored by The Knight Company.
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St. Edmund students carry wooden rosary during pro-life march
St. Edmund Catholic School in Eunice recently took 55 students to the 2nd Annual Pro-Llife March in Baton Rouge. For the entire march, several of the students helped to carry a large wooden rosary. Photo submitted by St. Edmund School
ASH students learn about Reconstruction period
Students at the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau were treated to a lecture from Mr. Don Stanford, a local author with a special interest in Louisiana’s Reconstruction period, particularly as it impacted the Acadiana area. Mr. Stanford addressed the students in the IV Prep Louisiana history class, answering their questions in regards to the time period and its economy, slavery, the Civil War, and Jim Crow laws. Photo submitted by ASH
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Cathedral celebrates Vocation Awareness Week with special Mass by Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE Vocation Awareness Week opened at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist with special emphasis on this at the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass on January 8, the Feast of the Epiphany. In his homily, Father Kevin Bordelon (Vocation Director) noted the appropriateness of the celebration on the Feast of the Epiphany. The feast calls attention to the encounter of the three kings, the magi, with the Christ Child. “They symbolize the gentile world becoming aware of the one true God, born as the son of Mary,” Father Bordelon pointed out. “Becoming aware of our vocation, our God-given calling in life, first requires that we become aware of God. We cannot know His will for us without first knowing Him.” Principal celebrant of the Mass was the Cathedral’s pastor, Father Chester Arceneaux, who welcomed the seminarians, religious brothers and sisters in attendance. He advised that Bishop Michael Jarrell, who had been scheduled to offer the Mass had been under the weather for the past few days. “I welcome you in the name of the bishop,” Father Arceneaux said. “We come together to give thanks for your vocation and an awareness of how you proclaim the Gospel of God as a witness to Christ.” Father Bordelon outlined the criteria “for knowing the will of God and His will for our lives.” He described the shepherds as people of simple faith, and the magi as
learned men, but both came to the Christ Child and were changed by this meeting. Attention, reverence, devotion, of mind, body and heart, are the characteristics necessary to determine a vocation, Father Bordelon pointed out. “God is the author of our vocation. He has created us and knows what is best for us. Deeper union with Him is the best way to discover our calling. When we come to Mass, are we attentive? What is our posture? How does our physical presence respond to the reality of where we are at Mass?” Father Bordelon continued. Recalling the gifts of the magi, he asked, “What do we bring to offer God at Mass? Every one of us participates in the Offertory. In the new translation, the priest says he offers ‘my sacrifice and yours.’ Do you offer that job you don’t like, or the pain of having a child outside the faith, or someone who is dying, or someone who is ‘fighting’ a religious vocation? “Attention, reverence, devotion equal transformation,” Father Bordelon said. He noted that in his work with seminarians they have “one common element, a serious effort to pray. Vocation awareness is God awareness,” he emphasized. “If we sincerely strive to know and love God, if we consistently approach Jesus with attention, reverence and devotion, He will transform us. He will reveal our vocation,” Father Bordelon concluded. The Gospel was read by transitional deacon William Scham-
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bough of Eunice. The Epistle was read by Sister Carmen Marie Bertrand, SSF. On the diocesan weekly television program recorded several weeks ago, Bishop Jarrell was interviewed about Vocation Awareness Week by Msgr. Richard Greene. Bishop Jarrell pointed out that all baptized persons are called to be disciples of Christ, and share in His ministry, married as well as single. The purpose of Vocation Aware-
ness Week is to call attention to the religious vocation, to establish a culture of vocations. He commended the Lafayette Serra Club for its work encouraging and supporting religious vocations. The observance is sponsored nationally by the Committee on clergy and religious vocations of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops and sponsors a web site: for your vocation. Bishop Jarrell suggested parents, teachers and persons interested in vocations should check it out.
4-H Club Christmas Cookie Contest
The 4-H Club of Sts. Peter & Paul School in Scott recently held a Christmas Cookie Contest. Winners in each category included (not in order) Largest: Cullen Gravioulla (1st Place) and Avin Domingue (2nd Place). Prettiest: Kade Trahan (1st Place), Natalie Broussard (2nd Place) and Makenzie Boudreaux (3rd Place). Tastiest: Lanie Fontenot (1st Place) Photo submitted by Avin Domingue (4-H Reporter)
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Sts. Leo-Seton choir performs at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center
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Our Lady of Mercy students help with Food Net
The Music Monday choir of Sts. Leo-Seton Catholic School in Lafayette visited Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center during Advent and shared the story of “The Birth of Jesus” through word and song. Lourdes is not only a medical facility that helps the body to heal; it is also a place where the spirit can heal as well. The choir members’ voices could be heard throughout the main entrance of the hospital as they shared the good news of Jesus’ birth. Photo submitted by Sts. Leo-Seton School
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Religion students at Our Lady of Mercy Church in Henderson recently participated in the Food Net food drive, collecting and donating several boxes of nonperishable goods as part of the parish’s Advent celebration. The goods were brought to the Breaux Bridge collection center so they could be distributed through local food banks. Photo submitted by Elizabeth Legrand
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12th Annual Luminary Message of Love
Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte recently hosted its 12th Annual Luminary Message of Love for the community. There was a live nativity presented by the campus apostolate, along with music from the High School Choir and special performance from the Praise Team. Photo submitted by Sacred Heart High School
Elderly Commission seeking nominations for awards LAFAYETTE The Diocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of the Elderly is currently seeking nominations of individuals and groups who are actively involved in service programs for the aged. Each year, the Commission recognizes and commends those involved in such exemplary work at its Annual Mass and Reception Honoring the Elderly. This year’s Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Michael Jarrell on Sunday, May 6 at 2:00 p.m. in Lafayette’s Immaculata Chapel. Following the Mass, Bishop Jarrell will present commendations to those who have served the elderly in some extraordinary fashion. Certain honorees may receive the Bishop’s Medal if so deemed. Recipients of recognition will
be selected within three categories: individual honorees; parish or school youth group honorees; and parish or organizational adult group honorees. To nominate an individual or group, simply complete a one-page form which may be accessed online; go to www. diolaf.org, select the Office of Justice & Peace and click on the appropriate nomination form under the “Forms” heading. The form may also be requested by contacting Sally Segura at (337) 261-5545 or ssegura@diolaf.org. All nomination forms should be submitted to the Office of Justice & Peace prior to March 31. All nominations will be reviewed by the Commission for the Pastoral Care of the Elderly, and recommendations are submitted to Bishop Jarrell for his approval.
During last year’s Mass Honoring the Elderly, Bishop Jarrell (center) presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Mr. Mark Jumonville (left) and Mr. Charles “Buddy” Guidry. The gentlemen were representing the “Suga Bees” group of St. Mary Mother of the Church Parish in Lafayette; the group was honored for its service to and for the elderly of the diocese. Photo submitted by Ed Boustany
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Director of Seminarians/Vocations presents optimistic report by Kathleen Toups LAFAYETTE An optimistic report on the priesthood and seminary life was given at the January 3 “Food for the Journey” meeting by Father Kevin Bordelon and a group of seminarians. Father Bordelon has multiple responsibilities related to vocations. He is director of vocations, director of seminarians, director of on-going formation of clergy, and chaplain of the Serra Club. He is also associate pastor of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist and was a member of the “Running Revs” basketball team of priests which engaged the seminarians’ team. At this January “Food for the Journey,” Father Bordelon was accompanied by a dozen seminarians who introduced themselves and commented on their vocations. All in all, the program produced some optimistic comments on the current state of priests and seminarians. Using the recent book Why Priests are Happy by Msgr. Stephen Rosetti, Father Bordelon pointed out that contrary to some popular opinion, priests rate higher in their psychological health than the general public. Msgr. Rosetti wrote the book, Father Bordelon said, because a TV producer invited Msgr. Rosetti to participate in a TV program focused on “why priests are depressed.” Rosetti decided to investigate and found that priests are generally happy, satisfied with their celibacy, and have good re-
lations with their bishop. They have good devotion to Mary, which brings them closer to God. Father Bordelon said that much of the negative media coverage focuses on the northeast and is not true of conditions here. He also noted that priests who leave have a deterioration of their spiri-
ment on their vocations. Deacon William Schambough of St. Anthony in Eunice is looking forward to his ordination to the priesthood this year on June 22. Rene Pellessier of St. Mary Parish in Lafayette said, “I’m on fire for Christ.”
Speakers at the January 3 Food for the Journey program included Father Kevin Bordelon and a number of seminarians. Front Row (L/R): Sal Istre; Matthew Hebert; Payton Bourque; Very Rev. Thomas James, SVD, VE, Episcopal Vicar of the Central Region; Father Kevin Bordelon; Dustin Dought; Brian Harrington; Father Anderson De Souza, SVD, Associate Pastor, Immaculate Heart of Mary; and Deacon Tim Maragos, Our Lady of Fatima. Back Row (L/R): Joseph Boustany; Garrett Savoie; Blake Dubroc; David Rozas; Rene Pellessier; Samuel Fontana; Mark Miley; Transitional Deacon William Schambough; Billy Massie; Deacon Frank Cormier, St. Edmond; and Deacon Candidate Jay Bergeron. Photo submitted by Mary Bergeron
tual lives. “It is important for the good news to be better known,” Father Bordelon emphasized. “I hereby deputize you,” he told his audience, “to spread this around. You must talk about happy priests, speak positively about the Church, and pray for vocations. Don’t be afraid to challenge and encourage young men who are considering a vocation to the priesthood.” Father Bordelon then called upon the seminarians present to introduce themselves and com-
St. Ignatius School Students of the Year
Congratulations to the 2011-2012 Students of the Year at St. Ignatius School in Grand Coteau; 5th grader Lindsey Brown and 8th grader Meghan Bush. Pictured above are all six nominees for the award: Lindsey Brown, Emma Stelly, Madi Miller, Dante Saracino, Andre Broussard, and Meghan Bush. Lindsey and Meghan were chosen from the nominees based on their submitted essays “What Would This Award Mean to Me” and interviews by a panel of faculty members and administration. Photo submitted by St. Ignatius School
Blake Dubroc from Our Lady of Wisdom in Lafayette said he appreciates the culture of this area which favors Catholicism. Joseph Boustany of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Lafayette said he loves the liturgy and sacraments. Val Istre, also of Fatima, thanked his former pastor Bishop Glen John Provost and current pastor Father Michael Russo for encouraging his vocation. Matthew Hebert of St. Mary Magdalen in Abbeville, also
February A-V Spotlight LAFAYETTE The Audio-Visual library of the Lafayette Diocese has selected Confirmation: Rite for Life (#3782 DVD) and Initiation Sacraments for Young People (#3792 DVD) for the February A-V Spotlight. Confirmation: Rite for Life is geared toward young people from grades 7-12. The program offers a comprehensive explanation of the history and meaning of the sacrament of confirmation through interviews with experts, reflections by young people who have been confirmed and by video of actual confirmation
thanked the priests of the parish, and his family, for encouraging his vocation. Sam Fontana of St. Pius X parish in Lafayette said he was influenced by parish life and the way people prayed. Payton Bourque of Holy Cross in Lafayette was impressed by a priest’s devotion to St. Joseph. Mark Miley of Sacred Heart in New Iberia will be ordained a transitional deacon in May; he was influenced by the Holy Spirit and his former pastor Father Steve LeBlanc. Brian Harrington of St. John Cathedral in Lafayette admitted he fought off his vocation, but was convinced by lay people. Billy Massie, also of Cathedral, said devotion to the Blessed Virgin and the example of John Paul II attracted him to the priesthood. Dustin Dought of St. Genevieve Parish in Lafayette said the welcome of the people influenced his decision. Garrett Savoie of Mire said the elderly ladies in the choir persistently encouraged him. He and Brian Harrington will also be ordained transitional deacons in May. Father Bordelon was introduced by Mary Bergeron, executive assistant to Father Thomas James, S.V.D., vicar for the Central Region which sponsors Food for the Journey. She thanked Father Bordelon and the seminarians “for the insightful and wonderful talk,” and promised “you have our prayers and support.” ceremonies. Initiation Sacraments for Young People is a collection which explore the important initiation sacraments of baptism and confirmation for younger children. There is also a more in-depth look at confirmation and the Holy Spirit for middle school children. The collection includes: “The New Birth Day Club (Baptism)” for grades 1-5; “The Spirit and Confirmation” for grades 5-9; and “Who is the Spirit?” for grades 1-4. For information on becoming a member of the diocesan A-V library, or to reserve these and other videos, please call Lynne Broussard at (337) 261-5674.
Acadiana Catholic
February 2012 Page 47
Setting A New
23 inspiring stories from the priesthood of Fr. Floyd Calais
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