Catholic Connection February 2015

Vol. 24, No. 7 February 2015

2015

Annual Diocesan

Stewardship

Appeal

February 2015 1

Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Contributors David Bodden

Rosalba Quiroz

Bishop Michael Duca

Jessica Rinaudo

Diane Haag Libro

Katie Sciba

Kim Long

Heather Vidrine

Lori Mainiero

Mike Van Vranken

Theresa Mormino

John Mark Willcox

Fr. Rothell Price

Editorial Board Kim Long Fr. Matthew Long Kelly Phelan Powell Dianne Rachal Christine Rivers Deacon Mike Whitehead John Mark Willcox Mission Statement The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Service Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport.

Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

Subscriptions & Address Changes Contact: Jessica Rinaudo, Editor Email: jrinaudo@dioshpt.org Write: Catholic Connection 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 Call: 318-868-4441 Fax: 318-868-4609 Website: www.thecatholicconnection.org

The Catholic Connection is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

The Diocese of Shreveport complies with Virtus’s Protecting God’s Children program. Classes are offered every second Wednesday of the month at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. To report child sexual abuse by a cleric or church worker in the Diocese of Shreveport, call Glennda Lawson.

Hotline is 318-294-1031 and your local law enforcement agency.

2 Catholic Connection

D

Calling Catholics Home

uring the 2015 Lenten season, parishes throughout the diocese are taking the opportunity to welcome back those who were “once Catholic” through the program “Calling Catholics Home.” If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church for a while, this invitation is for you. Our faith community misses you and is incomplete without you.

No matter how long you have been away, and for whatever reason, we invite you to consider renewing your relationship with the Catholic Church.

Please join us for informal sessions and an update of the Catholic faith.

The sessions are conducted in a support-group format with speakers including local lay people, priests, deacons and Bishop Michael Duca.

Everyone is welcome.

Please keep this program in mind while visiting with friends and family who might be fallen away Catholics.

This six week program will take place at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Library, located at 939 Jordan Street in Shreveport, on Tuesdays, February 10 - March 17, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. For more information, contact Jane at St. Joseph Church in Shreveport at 318-865-3581, or go to www.callingcatholicshome.com

bishop’s february calendar FEBRUARY 1 Catholic Scouting Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 11:00 a.m.

FEBRUARY 2-4 25th National Catholic Bioethics Center and Knights of Columbus Workshop for Bishops; Dallas FEBRUARY 5 Diocesan Finance Council Meeting; Catholic Center; 12:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 6 Legislators’ Luncheon; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Cathedral School Auction Fundraiser; Hilton Garden Inn, Bossier City; 7:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 8 Confirmation; Holy Trinity Parish, Shreveport; 12:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 9-12 Catholic Leadership Institute: Episcopal Ongoing Formation & Support; Orlando, FL FEBRUARY 13 Catholic Charities of North Louisiana Membership Board meeting; Catholic Center; 12:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 14 Confirmation; St. Jude Parish, Benton; 5:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 15 Confirmation; Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Shreveport; 9:00 a.m.

FEBRUARY 16 Confirmation; Mary, Queen of Peace Parish, Bossier City; 6:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 18 Ash Wednesday Mass; LSU-S, Shreveport; 11:00 a.m.

FEBRUARY 20 Catholic Center Staff Retreat; St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Shreveport; 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY 22 Rite of Election; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 2:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY 24 Calling Catholics Home; St. Michael the Archangel Chapel, Shreveport; 6:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY 25-27 Visit Bishop William B. Friend; Coral Springs, FL

contents

february 2015

columns Finding Hope and Inspiration in Our Loss

by Bishop Michael G. Duca........................................................................................... 4-5 Mike’s Meditations: Reverence: A Reflection of the Love in Our Hearts

by Mike Van Vranken.................................................................................................6

11

Second Collections: Collections and Programs for the Month of February

by Fr. Rothell Price .....................................................................................................6

From the Pope: What is the Nourishment God Gives to Us? It is His Word

by Vatican Information Services..................................................................................7 In the Words of Pope Francis by Vatican Information Services...............................7 Catholic Food: Rooted in Love by Kim Long.........................................................8 Domestic Church: Looking for Passion in the Right Places by Katie Sciba........9 Books to Help Rekindle Holy Passion by Katie Sciba ............................................9 Book Review: Being on Fire: The Top 10 Essentials of Catholic Faith Written by Fr. Richard Malloy by Diane Haag Libro ...............................................10

12

Pro-Life Banquet Registration ...............................................................................10

features Remembering Fr. David T. Richter by Lori Mainiero............................................... 11 2015 Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal by John Mark Willcox ................... 12 2014 Annual Report .............................................................................................. 13-16

news

18 on the cover

St. Frederick Students Work for Good by Jessica Rinaudo ....................................17 Catholic Charities: The Key to Change is Education by Theresa Mormino.........17 Our Lady of Guadalupe Honored at Christ the King by David Bodden ...........18 Meet Kevin Prevou: New Drector of Campus, Youth & Young Adult Ministries by Jessica Rinaudo ...................................................................................18 Hispanic Corner by Rosalba Quiroz ........................................................................19 School News ...........................................................................................................20 Around the Diocese ...............................................................................................21 Upcoming Events....................................................................................................22 February Calendar ................................................................................................23 Picture of the Month by Heather Vidrine ................................................................24

This year's Stewardship Appeal art is a photo of Bishop Duca's crosier from his ordination day.

February 2015 3

LA REFLEXIÓN del obispo

por Obispo Michael G. Duca

Encontrando Esperanza e Inspiración en el Dolor

M

ientras escribo esta columna, han pasado solo unos días de la muerte de nuestro querido Padre David Richter. Mi mente procesa lentamente esta pérdida y las palabras me salen también lentas porque mi mente esta en blanco, probablemente a propósito pues necesito contener el sentimiento profundo que tengo como Obispo al perder un sacerdote de mi diócesis. Mucha gente en la diócesis, ciertamente su familia, amigos de infancia, feligreses que ha servido a través de sus homilías, consejos, visitas a sus casas, matrimonios, muertes, enfermedades y tantas otras obras en la quietud y anonimato del confesionario, todos sentimos su pérdida de una manera única, profunda y personal. El Padre David sirvió como mi Vicario General cuando apenas llegué y lo conocí como amigo y buen sacerdote. Aunque lo que más me sorprende, es el profundo sentimiento de pérdida que tengo yo como Obispo y me hace reflexionar sobre la importancia de nuestros sacerdotes en la diócesis.

Nosotros los sacerdotes somos un grupo único de hombres que conocemos nuestras fallas y aun así nos sentimos llamados a gozarnos en el servicio del sacerdocio en nombre de Jesucristo. Como sus párrocos, nos ponemos en medio e intentamos ser testigos del amor de Cristo para todos y unificar la Iglesia en el cuerpo de Cristo.

Esto no es fácil. Cada vez que le dicen a su párroco que no les gusta algo, hay otra persona diciéndole que a ellos sí les gusta. Admiro a nuestros sacerdotes que continúan diariamente trabajando para unir a su parroquia y llevar los sacramentos a su gente.

También siento otra cosa. Pienso que todos esperamos mucho de nuestros sacerdotes. En su voluntad de aceptar su cargo como párrocos, sé que los envío poniendo mucha esperanza en ellos: espero continuarán el buen trabajo de Jesucristo en áreas de nuestra diócesis donde el párroco puede ser el único 4 Catholic Connection

sacerdote católico en muchas millas. Vivo y nuestros sacerdotes cumplirán con las con la esperanza de que ellos estarán ahí necesidades que hacía nuestro hermano. cuando sus feligreses los necesiten. Me Nuestras historias sobre el padre David despierto cada día con la esperanza de que serán una fuente de inspiración y de la diócesis continuará con el entusiasmo risa sanadora. También encuentro nueva renovado en nuestra fidelidad. Además esperanza creyendo que más hombres de mi pérdida personal, siento una jóvenes responderán al llamado al profunda pérdida también por la iglesia. sacerdocio igual que el Padre David lo El P. David ya no estará aquí para tomar hizo, para unirse al número de sacerdotes el reto de ser párroco en la diócesis. Sus en nuestra diócesis. feligreses y amigos sentirán su ausencia Oremos unos por otros en estos cuando busquen momentos de su presencia dificultad y Seremos más fuertes por el durante sus permitamos ejemplo del sacerdocio del necesidades. Me que el ejemplo Padre David y nuestros sacerdotes del ministerio y siento menos entusiasta por sacerdocio del cumplirán con las necesidades nuestro futuro Padre David que hacía nuestro hermano. sin un sacerdote sea una fuente tan bueno como de esperanza el padre David para ayudarnos. Perder a y una respuesta a nuestras peticiones tan amoroso sacerdote es una gran herida de ayuda. Tomen el tiempo de orar por a nuestra esperanza. Como su obispo su pastor y denle el apoyo que necesita. siento una profunda pérdida.

Estoy consiente ahora más que nunca que Aun así, mientras escribo esto, sé que tan importante son nuestros sacerdotes aunque la muerte del Padre David es para nuestra diócesis y cuanta esperanza una herida a mi esperanza, es también y confianza pongo en ellos. Cuídenlos una herida que sanará por los buenos y oren por ellos, por mí y por nuestra sacerdotes que tenemos y que continuarán Iglesia. el ministerio de Jesucristo con un vigor San Juan Vianney, patrón de los párrocos, renovado. Seremos más fuertes por el ruega por nosotros. ejemplo del sacerdocio del Padre David Padre David, ruega por nosotros.

bishop’s reflection

by Bishop Michael G. Duca

Finding Hope and INspiration in Our Loss

A

s I write this column it has been only a few days since the death of our dear Father David Richter.

My mind is slow to process this loss and these words to you come slowly because my mind is blank, probably on purpose, to hold back the deep feelings I have as a Bishop losing a priest of my diocese.

Many in the diocese, Bishop Duca most certainly his family, the friends he grew up with, the parishioners he has ministered to in sermons, counseling, home visits, marriages, deaths, illness and so many anonymously in the quiet of the confessional, all feel his loss in a unique and deeply personal way. I certainly feel a personal loss. Father David served as my Vicar General when I first arrived and I came to know him as a friend and a good priest. But what surprises me is the deep feeling of loss I have as a Bishop, and it has made me reflect on the importance of our priests to the diocese.

We priests are a unique group of men who are aware of our faults and yet feel called to embrace a life of service in the name of Jesus Christ. As your parish priest, as your pastor, we put ourselves in the middle and try to witness Christ’s love to everyone and to unify the Church into the one body of Christ. This is not easy. Every time you tell your pastor you do not like something, there is another person telling your pastor they like it. I admire our priests who continue daily to work to unite their parish and bring the sacraments to their people.

But there is something else I feel. I think we all expect a lot from our pastors and priests. In their willingness to accept their assignments as pastors, I find that I put a lot of hope in them: hope that they will continue the good work of Jesus Christ in an area of our diocese where the

pastor may be the only Catholic priest example and our priests will step up to for miles. I live with the hope that they meet the needs that were once filled by will be there when their parishioners need our brother. Our stories about Father them. I wake up each day hopeful that David will be a source of inspiration and the diocese will continue with renewed healing laughter. We will continue to enthusiasm because of their faithfulness. be influenced by his prayerful life and In addition to my personal loss, I feel his faithful service. I also find new hope a deep loss for our Church. David will in believing that more young men will not be there to take on the new challenge answer the call, as Father David did, to of pastoring in join the ranks the diocese in of the priests of We will be stronger because of the future. His our diocese. parishioners Let us pray Father David’s priestly example and friends will for one another and our priests will step up to feel his absence at this difficult when they look meet the needs that were once time and allow for his presence the example filled by our brother. in their need. of Father I feel less David’s priestly enthusiastic about our future without ministry to be a source of hope and an such a good priest as Father David to answer to our prayers for help. Take some help us. To lose such a loving pastor is a time to pray for your pastor and give him wound to our hope. I feel this loss deeply the support he needs. I am more aware as your bishop. now than ever of how important our Yet, even as I write this, I know that priests are to our diocese and how much while Fr. David’s death is a wound to hope and trust I place in them. Care my hope, it is a wound that will heal and pray for them, for me and for our because of the good priests we have who Church. will continue the ministry of Jesus Christ St. John Vianney, patron of parish priests, with renewed vigor. We will be stronger pray for us. because of Father David’s priestly Father David, pray for us.

February 2015 5

Meditations MM Mike's

by Mike Van Vranken

Collections SC Second

by Fr. Rothell Price

Reverence: A Reflection of Collections and Programs for the Month of February the Love in Our Hearts

O

ur society seems to have lost its sense of reverence – reverence for life, reverence for families, reverence for the elderly; but especially, reverence for God. We can define reverence as the manifestation of that attitude of deep respect for someone or something that is coupled with awe, or veneration or praise. We can debate how or why this has happened, but today I would like to contemplate what we might do about it.

Psalm 104:1 reminds us that God is great and clothed in majesty and splendor. We know from other scriptures that God is the creator of the universe. Our ability to transcend our feelings into a relationship with this great and majestic God can only bring us into a state of reverence and awe. Psalm 24:3 asks: “Who may go up to the mountain of the Lord? Who can stand in this holy place?” These questions remind us that even in our acts of praying we should accompany them with our own humility, repentance, gratitude and praise.

God is holy. He is the Lord of all. He rightfully deserves our reverence at all times and in all things.

But to reverence God in all things means to show this same respectful attitude towards his entire creation – including towards other people. It is a reflection of our love for God and all that belongs to Him. Ponder this: this same God who naturally commands our reverence also created every single human being in His image; in His likeness. Here’s how Isaiah puts it: “Do not fear for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name and you are mine. You are precious in my sight and honored and I love you” (Isaiah 43:1,4). We are also reminded in Psalm 139:11 that God knits us in our mother’s womb. This God loves us so much that he carefully and individually creates us himself. When we develop our own personal relationship with God, and we discover that He cherishes all of us, loves all of us and forgives all of us, we cannot reverence Him without reverencing each other. For, indeed we are His children. Once we begin to understand this, showing reverence to Him and to others becomes our response to his greatness and to His loving presence in our lives and in other people as well. It would be impossible to continued on page 8

6 Catholic Connection

Aid to the Church in Central & Eastern Europe Collection Dates: February 14 & 15 Announcement Dates: February 1 & 8

T

he theme for this year’s Collection for Aid to the Church in Central and Eastern Europe is “Restore the Church, Build the Future.” Each year this collection assists Catholics who live in countries once dominated by the Soviet regime in order to rebuild their communities. This collection allows Catholics in the U.S. to show their gratitude for the faith handed down to them from heroic ancestors who persevered under communist persecution. For many in the Church in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as parts of Asia, the aftermath of 70 years of Soviet rule is still felt in the form of poverty, infrequent pastoral care and lack of buildings in which the faithful can worship. Your support is needed to strengthen the Church in this region through grants that promote ministries for children and families, create affordable housing and provide a cultural and spiritual education. Your gift will continue to restore and build the future of the Church in Central and Eastern Europe.

Operation Rice Bowl Collection Dates: February 18 - April 5 (Ash Wednesday - Easter Sunday) Announcement Dates: February 8 & 15

O

peration Rice Bowl is a project of Catholic Relief Services.

This year’s Rice Bowl program is titled, “What you give up for Lent changes lives.” Pope Francis challenges us: “Lent is a fitting time for self-denial; we would do well to ask ourselves what we can give up in order to help and enrich others.” The CRS Rice Bowl offers families, schools and faith communities an opportunity to prayerfully journey through Lent, putting their faith in action, and learning about the lives and struggles of our brothers and sisters around the world. This is not the Catholic Relief Services collection which will be taken up on the Fourth Sunday of Lent. The Rice Bowl is made available in schools and parishes prior to Ash Wednesday. Each day, participants have the opportunity to briefly pray for the poor and hungry, and to contribute to the eradication of the causes of poverty and hunger. Enhance your Easter joy by presenting your CRS Rice Bowl to our Risen Lord on Easter Sunday.

Black & Indian Missions Collection Dates: February 21 & 22 Announcement Dates: February 8 & 15

T

he Black and Indian Missions Collection exists to help local African American and Native American diocesan communities throughout the U.S. spread the Good News of Jesus Christ and respond to real and pressing needs on the ground. Proceeds from this collection are distributed as grants to dioceses supporting and strengthening evangelization programs, which would otherwise be in danger of disappearing among the Black, American Indian, Eskimo and Aleute communities.

Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General, is the Director of Special Collections.

from the

from Vatican Information Services

What is the Nourishment God Gives to Us? It is His Word

V

atican City, January 11, 2015 (VIS) – That morning in the Sistine Chapel the Holy Father presided at a Eucharistic celebration during which he baptised 33 children of Vatican employees. In his homily, citing the first reading, the Pope remarked that the Lord is concerned for his children, Pope Francis like a parent, and therefore ensures they receive substantial nourishment. “God, like a good father or a good mother, wishes to give good things to His children. And what is this nourishment that God gives us? It is His Word.”

The Word “enables us to grow and to be fruitful in life, like the rain and the snow are good for the earth and make it fecund.

Therefore you, parents and godparents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, will help these children to grow well if you give them the Word of God, the Gospel of Jesus. And also offer this to them by example! Every day, get used to reading a passage from the Gospel, a short one, and always carry a copy of the Gospel in your pocket, in your bag, so you can read it. And this will be an example for your children – seeing their father, mother, godparents, grandfather, grandmother, aunts and uncles all reading the Word of God.” “You, mothers, give your children milk – and even now, if they cry with hunger, feel free to feed them. Let us give thanks to the Lord for the gift of milk and pray for those mothers – there are many, unfortunately – who are not able to give their children food to eat. Let us pray and try to help these mothers. So, what the milk does for the body, the Word of God does for the spirit: the Word of God enables faith to grow. As we heard in the words of the apostle John: Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is begotten

by God.” Your children are baptized in

this faith. Today it is your faith, dear parents and godparents. It is the faith of the Church, in which these little ones will receive Baptism. But tomorrow, by the grace of God, it will be their faith, their personal ‘yes’ to Jesus Christ, who gives us the love of the Father”.

He continued, “Baptism brings us within the body of the Church, as part of God’s holy people. And in this body, in this journeying people, faith is transmitted from generation to generation: it is the faith of the Church. It is the faith of Mary, our mother, the faith of St. Joseph, of St. Peter, of St. Andrew, of St. John, of the apostles and the martyrs, that has arrived with us through Baptism: a chain that transmits faith.”

“The candle of faith is passed from one hand to another,” explained the Pope, alluding to the Paschal candle that is lit during Baptismal rites and which represents Christ, resurrected and living in our midst. You, families, take from Him this light of faith to transmit to your children. You take this light from the Church, the body of Christ, the people of God that journeys through every time and every place. Teach your children that it is not possible to be Christian outside the Church, and it is not possible to follow Christ outside the Church, as the Church is our mother, and lets us grow in the love of Jesus Christ.”

Pope Francis then turned to the final aspect to emerge from today’s biblical readings: that in Baptism we are consecrated in the Holy Spirit. “The word ‘Christian’ means consecrated like Jesus, in the same Spirit in which Jesus was immersed in all his earthly existence. He is the ‘Christ’, the anointed, the consecrated, and the baptized are Christians, that is, consecrated, anointed. And therefore, dear parents and godparents, if you want your children to become true Christians, help them to grow ‘immersed’ in the Holy Spirit, that is, in the warmth of God’s love, in the light of His Word.”

Words

In the of

Pope Francis

“But Our Lady remained always with you. She is the mother of every home, of every wounded family, of all who are seeking to return to a peaceful existence.

Today we thank her for protecting the people of Sri Lanka from so many dangers, past and present. Mary never forgot her children on this resplendent island. Just as she never left the side of her Son on the Cross, so she never left the side of her suffering Sri Lankan children.” (At the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu in Sri Lanka 1/14/15) “For the sake of peace, religious beliefs must never be allowed to be abused in the cause of violence and war. We must be clear and unequivocal in challenging our communities to live fully the tenets of peace and coexistence found in each religion, and to denounce acts of violence when they are committed.”

(Interreligious Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka 1/13/15) “Thus the world transforms into God’s dwelling amid humanity, and each one of us has the opportunity to meet the Son of God, experiencing all of His love and infinite mercy. We find Him truly present in the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist. We are able to recognize Him in the face of our brothers, especially the poor, the sick, the imprisoned and refugees; they are the living flesh of the suffering Christ and the visible image of the invisible God.” (Angelus 1/11/15) “Communion shows that charity is not merely about helping others, but is a dimension that permeates the whole of life and breaks down all those barriers of individualism which prevent us from encountering one another. Charity is the inner life of the Church and is manifested in ecclesial communion.” (Audience with participants in the conference: The Communion of the Church: Memory and Hope for Haiti 5 Years After the Earthquake 1/10/15) February 2015 7

CF

Catholic Food

continued from page 6

by Kim Long

Rooted in Love

W

hen I was a child, my two siblings, parents and I lived in a small “FHA” house with three tiny bedrooms, one bathroom and a small dining “area.” We were stuffed in those four walls along with books, toys, clothes – all the normal possessions of life. My mother owned a piece of furniture which she called a buffet, but was really a dresser or a Welsh dresser with a place for plates, silverware and linens. It was this piece of furniture I wanted all my life, for it seemed to me an anchor.

Years ago my mother gave it to me along with the other pieces which accompanied it: a dining table whose leaves were lost years ago and a china cabinet. I felt like I was bringing all the good experiences we shared in that little house home with me. It was a touchstone, a visible reminder of being grounded in my mother’s desire for family, in love, and in faith.

Every Monday night my children come home for “family night” to eat a favorite dish, to bring their friends and girlfriends home. This shared time echoes our Eucharistic celebration. It feels good, nourishing and sustaining to gather, give one another our respective days and to eat. It helps me feel grounded, rooted in family, love, faith and in troubling times and situations it has sustained me – another touchstone.

Sometimes when I hear the phrases, “rooted in love” or “grounded in faith,” they can conjure up a negative image of a person who doesn’t occupy my reality of scraped

emotional knees! We have, like everyone, had lots of ups and downs, but we return to the family, to the love, to the faith, to the table to be sustained and nourished. With Valentine’s Day hard on our heels, this is a reminder for me that love really can endure all things. Note that scripture doesn’t say love endures only pleasant things or happy times, but ALL things. I sometimes read what I think the words say rather than what is written.

So tonight, rather than preparing a rich dessert (which I shall surely do soon for Valentine treats), I pay homage to the more practical side of the endurance of love and family by preparing a roasted root vegetable soup. As I peeled and quartered the vegetables, I thought of my children, the souls of my faithful departed and my friends and realized that my treasure really is where my heart lies. I hope that in this month of chocolate and flowers and throat blessings that you enjoy all good things and know life isn’t always smooth sailing. My prayer for all of us is that we remember that love endures!

Roasted Root Vegetable Soup Ingredients: • 1 Irish potato • 1 sweet potato • 1 small beet • 1 red onion • 4 carrots

doesn’t burn. When tender remove from oven and let cool slightly (about five minutes, these veggies are really warm!)

3) Dump veggies into a food processor or a blender. Add 8 ounces of chicken or vegetable broth and blend. You can adjust Directions: the amount of liquid to your taste adding 1) Peel and cut the potatoes, beet, carrots more or less depending on the thickness you and onion into chunks. Set aside. desire.

2) Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place Delicious with cheese toast or French vegetables on baking sheet and toss with bread and a salad! good olive oil making sure to coat each PLEASE NOTE: I used what I had on hand, piece. Sprinkle with a little bit of salt and feel free to vary the vegetables to your own pepper. Cover with foil and put into oven. Stir tastes. I would only use one beet since they about every 10 minutes so the vegetables are very sweet!

• Olive oil • Salt & pepper • 8oz chicken or veggie broth

8 Catholic Connection

reverence Him and at the same time, not revere and respect every other element of His creation. “If anyone one says: ‘I love God’ but hates his brother, he is a liar” (1 John 4:20). Why? Because his brother is one of God’s special, precious and honored children.

We cannot revere the father and disrespect his children.

A few steps we could take to bring reverence back into its proper place in our world might be: 1. Recall that God is love.

Then, vividly imagine God’s DNA and genetics running through the very fiber of everyone you encounter. Be sure to include your co-workers, anyone who works for you, your boss and your customers.

2. For those who do not like you, picture them sitting around the table of God as His children whom He loves and cherishes.

Imagine how many times He has forgiven them and then you do the same.

3. Finally, envision God for who He is: our creator, our protector, our provider, our forgiver, our lover and our source of all that is good. Then, only approach Him with the reverence He so richly deserves.

We can all shake our heads and mourn the demise of respect in our culture, or we can bring it back. How? As each of us plants the seeds of reverence for God and all of His creation, those seeds will grow into a wellspring of honor, respect, admiration and esteem for the earth and everything in it.

Reverence is nothing more than the reflection of the love in our hearts. Let’s make that reflection something the whole world will revere.

Mike is a writer and teacher, and co-author of the book: Faith Positive in a Negative World.

You can contact him at www. mikevanvrankenministries.org

Church DC Domestic

by Katie Sciba

Looking for Passion in the Right Places Passion is delighting in another's being - spiritually and physically

I

relish in St. Valentine’s Day - my favorite non-Christmas holiday the whole year long. It’s a spark of warmth in winter’s chill; a day culturally dedicated to romance. So much so that the secular push for love lasts all month, but the common understanding of romantic passion has unfortunately been so twisted that the truth behind it seems a stark contrast.

While many see an illusive love and despair that their marriages will ever blaze with that kind of fire, the truth is that the thrill of genuine romantic passion is easily within reach. I think now is the perfect time for a little clarification, time to put words to the feeling of passion, and time to have hope that a marriage of any number of years can overflow with it without succumbing to worldly ideas.

The secular approach to romantic passion is self-seeking, involving another person to achieve a certain kind of pleasure whether it be a physical or emotional high. So many think that you have to turn to steamy books and movies to find some sort of rapturous love, when really all that’s there is pleasure for the sake of pleasure. It’s this idea that is so deeply instilled in the culture that real passion is almost unrecognizable, so here it is: The whole point of genuine romantic passion is delighting in another’s being - spiritually and physically. It’s being captivated by who they are and drawing happiness simply because they exist; it’s loving them to the point of devotion - a readiness to share and serve, and an eager abandonment of self for the good of the other. A love like this has 10 times the

passion anything the world will offer, and if you don’t believe me, crack open your Bible to Song of Solomon; it’s within these pages that all-consuming fire and passion can be found.

Contrary to popular belief, marriage can overflow with romantic passion regardless if you’ve been together five months or five decades, exuding that iconic bliss from the wedding day.

While it’s true that our marriages began with a sweet pursuit, it’s an at times disappointing fact that the pursuit dwindles. We tire from careers, houses, kids and time, which deplete thoughts and energy for wooing each other. The good news is that dwindled or even lifeless romance doesn’t have to mean dead and gone. It might not seem immediately obvious, but the best places to light a spark of passion in marriage are in conversation and small deeds of love and devotion. Go outside of yourself to recognize the needs and desires of your spouse’s heart, then help achieve them. The act of pursuit isn’t an effortless activity – it takes work of the will and concentration from both sides, and sometimes you have to help each other out a little. It takes communication and knowing each other intimately so you can meet each other’s needs. Wives, take the time to romance your husbands this way; and dear husbands, give your wife the thrill of pursuit again. Show your beloved that they have your time and respect, and your mutual delight will create an umbrella effect over the rest of your marriage.

Katie Sciba is the author of thecatholicwife.net. She lives in Shreveport with her husband, Andrew, and four children, Liam,Thomas, Peter and Jane.

Books to Help Rekindle Holy Passion Marriage can blaze with romance whether you’re still on your honeymoon or celebrating your golden anniversary. Read the following to rekindle a fiery (and holy!) passion in your own marriage.

You'll find truth and romance are within reach and easily maintained with a little effort.

The Temperament God Gave Your Spouse by Art and Larraine Bennett

Wild at Heart and Captivating by John and Staci Eldredge

Good News About Sex & Marriage by Christopher West

Boundaries in Marriage by Dr. Henry Cloud and John Townsend

Holy Sex! by Dr. Gregory Popcak

Spice Up Your Marriage: A 28 Day Adventure by Hallie Lord (e-book)

February 2015 9

BR

Book Review

by Diane Haag Libro

Being on Fire: The Top Ten Essentials of Catholic Faith by Fr. Richard Malloy

W

ho doesn’t love a top 10 list?

Colleges, sports plays of the day, ways to save money at the grocery store. They promise succinct nuggets of information and automatically generate thought – Why was that included? What’s my connection with the things on the list?

So as we approach Lent and start to think about the basics of our faith, Fr. Richard Malloy’s Being on Fire: The Top Ten Essentials of Catholic Faith had promise as a way to channel my thoughts on 10 things that really matter.

Malloy succeeded in generating thought.

A Jesuit professor at the University of Scranton, PA, Malloy aimed the book at young adults who are searching for meaning and purpose. Through these 10 essentials, he hopes they find a new fire that will transform their lives.

In keeping with his audience, he takes a largely conversational tone. Malloy gets that we’re not perfect (in fact, that’s one of the essentials) and we have to keep making a good faith effort in terms of our relationship with God. In Essential No. 2 about how God constantly speaks to us through His creation, he leads an excellent discussion of prayer and the trouble many of us have with this central practice of faith. It is not necessarily a lack of faith that makes prayer difficult, he argues, but fear of an actual response.

“Prayer is a risk because the God who calls us to conversion and transformation takes us up on the invitation to get involved in our lives. And when that happens, the adventure begins.”

Malloy’s biggest strength is in his storytelling. He has plenty of quotes and support from popes and theologians for authority, but the chapters are full of personal anecdotes and jokes that put complex theory into easily understandable terms.

My favorite is his story of his own first 10 Catholic Connection

confession. “On hearing that we could be forgiven for anything and everything, I was stunned. This was the best deal I’d ever heard of.” After confessing he did a million of this and three million of that, he leaves the confessional with the priest laughing and at peace with his clean slate. It proves that honesty and humility are rewarded.

The flip side of his stories is often the length and the quantity. He frequently spirals into tangents, sometimes insightful and sometimes superfluous or even overlypoliticized.

Malloy also addresses some difficult issues head on, such as the sexual abuse scandal and the infighting between “liberals” and “conservatives.” His fearlessness is to be commended, especially since his Millennial audience particularly values authenticity and disdains anything that seems to be a public relations ploy.

But here I found the major fault of the

book. Malloy raises several real challenges to faith, but he offers little practical advice on how to grapple with the problems.

He talks about the political divisions in the church, but makes no attempt to offer a third way to address our differences.

At best, he repeats tired platitudes about working together instead of against each other.

And in the chapter on social justice, he raises the valid and difficult issue of income inequality and the fact that about 33 percent of the world’s population lives on less than $2.50 a day. He calls the reader to solidarity, but offers nothing in the way of practical suggestions. He could have highlighted those corporations who are managing to both make money and contribute to the social good and pointed out ethical business practices.

Despite the tangents, anyone incorporating Malloy’s basic list into their lives will sense the fire of faith. He closes with the reminder that we have reason to smile. If we are open to it, God gives us the gift of faith and with that we find happiness, wholeness and freedom.

Sounds like the No. 1 essential to me.

Being on Fire: The Top Ten Essentials of Catholic Faith can be found in Slattery Library at the Catholic Center, as well as Amazon.com.

Pro-Life Banquet Registration

Bishop Michael Duca's 5th Annual Pro-Life Banquet will be held March 11 at the Bossier Civic Center with Fr. Jonathan Morris. Book signing at 5:30 p.m. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m.

Registration deadline: March 4, 2015 Mail form and payment to: Pro-Life Banquet, 3500 Fairfield Ave., Shreveport, LA 71105

Name:___________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Phone: (_____) _____________________ Email: __________________________________________ Reservations: $60 per person / $500 for table of 8 # of Reservations _____ # of Tables _____ Amount enclosed: $_______ List of names of people at table (if applicable): _________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Additional donation to underwrite the cost of event: $___________ For sponsorship, contact: prolifedioshreveport@dioshpt.org

Remembering

H

Father David T. Richter

e was my first office-job boss. He confirmed me. He heard my first confession. He married Dom and me. He baptized our first child. He blessed the land on which we built our home. He was the first priest I ever saw drink a beer.

He was part of our family in so many ways that including him in everything from the most special of occasions to the most mundane came naturally. He often attended family holiday gatherings where he witnessed first-hand our wrapping paper mayhem.

I had the privilege of working for Father Dave twice. During my senior year in college I was an office assistant at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish where he was pastor. Later, I worked as his secretary in the Chancery of our diocese where he served as Vicar General. In our second working relationship he asked me only once to take some mail to his apartment which was located on the other side of our office building. Inside his home I confirmed what I had always suspected – that he lived simply and neatly with very little fluff.

Usually serious and pensive, Father Dave had a unique funny side. To this day he is the only priest who has ever shot me with a rubber band. I will never forget the look on his face as he peered around a filing cabinet, professionally wrapped the band over his cocked thumb and took aim.

Father Dave had his favorites, too. He was a staunch fan of the Dallas Cowboys and all things Star Wars. As I stooped to take a book from the bottom shelf in his office one day, I was shocked to find that I was faceto-face with a 12-inch tall Yoda perched on the bookcase. I gave a startled gasp before laughing out loud, only to turn and find Father Dave rocking back in his chair, hands folded across his chest, nodding with a sly grin.

Educated at the Seminary of St. Pius X in Kentucky, Gregorian University in Rome

by Lori Mainiero

and the University of Dallas, Father Dave’s priestly ministry began with his ordination on June 7, 1986. He received his Licentiate in Canon Law from the Catholic University of America in 2006. His service to the diocese at large included appointments as Master of Ceremonies to Bishop Friend, Chaplain for Catholic Scouting, Co-Chaplain for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Greco Institute Professor, Vicar General, Moderator of the Curia and Director of Church Vocations. Father Dave is credited with beginning the vocation prayer apostolate and cultivating the vocation culture in our diocese. Father Matthew Long, current Director of Church Vocations, states gratefully, “The current success the vocations program is experiencing can be directly attributed to the foundation laid by Fr. Richter as Vocations Director.”

He was loved by parishioners across the diocese, especially at the churches he pastored: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Shreveport, St. Joseph Parish in Zwolle, and Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish in Monroe.

He was soft-spoken and witty, and he gave great consideration to his words before he spoke them. He was kind and hard-working, gentle and good, quiet and reserved. He was far too young and his leaving came far too soon.

Preceded in death by his parents Harold Richter in 2013, and his mother, Margaret Richter just three days before his own passing, we continue to pray for Fr. David, his mother and all the family members he leaves behind.

To echo the words of the little green Jedi master: “Soon will I rest, yes, forever sleep.

Earned it I have. Twilight is upon me, soon night must fall…Death is a natural part of life. Rejoice for those around you who transform into the Force. Mourn them do not. Miss them do not.”

Oh, Yoda, if only it were that easy.

Words of Love Following his death, there was an outpouring of love and support for Fr. David and his family on the diocesan Facebook page. Here are a few of those kind words.

“After years of holding and embracing the Body of Christ, Christ now embraces you. Rest in peace. Prayers for your family.” - Jeff Rivers “He married us and I am so sad to see this news. I know he is celebrating his heaven homecoming. Praying for his family.” - Pam Payne Mitchell

“Fr. Richter was a beautiful holy priest!

He is in the arms of Jesus - I will be praying to him to intercede for all of us and his brother priests!”

- Donna Barnard

“Prayers for the Richter family, the people of Good Shepherd and Bishop Duca and all of his brother priests. Fr. Dave was a good and holy priest and will be missed. May he rest in peace.”

- Mavis Champagne “Prayers and thoughts with you Father

David and your family. Always enjoyed 5pm Mass on Sundays after weekends at camp. God speed my friend.”

- Mark Booth

“Loved and adored Fr. Richter... grew up with him while he was the priest at St. Joesph’s. Will be missed dearly!”

- Amy Petriello

“I remember Fr. Dave dancing at my high school graduation party with my friends....he was the first priest I ever saw dancing! Wonderful man! I have very fond memories of him being a young priest partying with some teenage kids! I know the Lord welcomed Fr. Dave with a huge smile and warm hug!

Welcome to heaven!”- Jackie Sutis “Wonderful priest who was a true servant of God.” - Carol Alford

“Fr. Richter was such a prayerful and kind Pastor. We will really miss him. He was greatly loved by our parish and we are thankful for the time we had him.

God bless his family in this difficult time.

We know he has been welcomed to his eternal reward in Heaven! Well done faithful servant! RIP.” - Eric Thibodeaux “Rest in peace, Father Dave. Our hearts go out to his family in their time of sorrow.” - Liz Zippi

February 2015 11

2015

Annual

Stewardship

Diocesan

Appeal

by John Mark Willcox, Director of Stewardship & Development

A

s you can tell from his column in last month’s issue of the Catholic Connection, the coming year will be one of transitional challenge for the people of our diocese.

Bishop Duca will be conducting planning and listening sessions designed to help lead our combined faith community into the future. One thing that will not change will be the existence of our Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal and the critical role it plays in weaving a beautiful fabric of generosity that helps define who we are as Catholics in the Diocese of Shreveport.

For the coming year, the largest Appeal allocations will be care for our retired priests and replacing those men with seminarians poised to become our new ordained leadership of the future. “We provide expert medical care to our older priests and that is costly,” comments Bishop Michael G. Duca. “But I have no doubt that this is the right thing for our Appeal to provide to these men who have given so much to sustain the life of the Church in our diocese.”

When discussing our vocations program Bishop Duca is hopeful: “We have good men in our seminarian program and we are starting to experience ordinations again in this diocese. That is inspiring to our people and our priests who stretch themselves to minister to our needs throughout the diocese. I certainly see Appeal support of our ministry of vocations as critical.”

Religious education of our youth and young adults is another area that will see intense Appeal support in the months ahead. “Catholic education should be a priority among our parents of this diocese because we have an excellent Catholic school system in place to meet the educational needs of our families.” As Bishop Duca reminded us in last month’s issue, “Our religious 12 Catholic Connection

education programs for both young and old need a new model for catechesis that blends prayer and learning and our Appeal will assist in providing that.”

In the area of charitable endeavors and outreach, our Appeal provides funding to established providers for the poor like Catholic Charities and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Bishop Duca touched on this in January when he wrote, “I have witnessed the people of our diocese engaged in charitable work in a variety of ways and it is very inspirational to me and I pray our Appeal support of these programs will place these good works more at the center of our mission and make it part of our everyday life.”

The Appeal also provides for a host of other programs that accomplish real good for the people of our diocese. The success of these initiatives also brings pride to our chief shepherd: “There are components of our Appeal that for years have done great work for our diocesan Church,” said Bishop Duca.

“While I cannot touch on them all I must mention our bright and active Hispanic ministry that reaches young and old alike, our publication, the Catholic Connection, is award-winning and brings me consistent positive feedback from our people and even my brother bishops. We have a successful diaconate program that allowed me the privilege of ordaining 16 men last year and an excellent Office of Worship to coordinate our liturgical celebrations.”

All this and more is what our Appeal provides for the people of our diocese: some 40,000 Catholics who worship at approximately 38 locations within 16 civil parishes, encompassing over 14,000 square miles. This is the demographic of an Annual Appeal that has been serving the diocese since its inception. Many who read this publication have been Appeal donors for over 20 years and helped last year’s Appeal to be extremely successful. Thank you! If you have yet to participate in this annual effort, please prayerfully consider doing so. A copy of this year’s pledge card can be found on page 22 of this issue.

“Our people are so generous,” said Bishop Duca. “Nothing would bring me greater joy than to see a larger percentage of our families making a pledge to our Appeal. It does so much for our diocese and for people in need. May God bless the new Appeal donors we hope to welcome to our giving family, and may His richest blessings be upon the people of this diocese.” •

ANNUAL REPORT 1

February 2015 13

ANNUAL REPORT 2

14 Catholic Connection

ANNUAL REPORT 3

February 2015 15

ANNUAL REPORT 4

16 Catholic Connection

NEWS

St. Frederick Students Work for Good

M

any of our churches and schools reach out to the less fortunate during the Christmas season, but it is rare that two young men take it upon themselves to provide for the students of an entire grade at a local, low-income elementary school. Cole Williamson and William Claussen, students at St. Frederick Catholic High School in Monroe, banded together and decided to provide gifts for the 75 second graders at Minnie Ruffin Elementary School in Monroe.

The project was big and the two teenagers weren’t sure where to begin. Fortunately, Cole’s mother knew one of the teachers from the school. “We knew that we wanted to give back, but couldn’t figure out a way to do it. The teacher came to us and said this school could really use some help,” said Cole “This is my second time to do this. I did it when I was in eighth grade for one of the other local schools. I really wanted to do it again before my high school career ended,” said Cole.

“I asked William if he wanted to help, so he got involved. We went to local businesses and people we all knew and asked for donations. It cost $35 to sponsor a child.”

All 75 second graders were provided with bags of goodies that contained blankets, socks, coloring books, action figures for the boys and fairy wings for the girls. When it came time to deliver the gifts, the boys didn’t shy away from that either.

“If we were going to do it, we thought we’d go all out and dress the part,” said Cole. The boys donned Santa and Elf costumes to bring Christmas cheer with their delivery.

“The kids were a lot more excited than I thought they’d be.

The look on their faces was priceless,” said Cole.

“Seeing how excited and thankful they were was the real reward,” added William. “They would come up to me and say, ‘Are you really Santa’s elf? Where’s Santa’s reindeer?’”

The second grade class gathered in the school auditorium, where each name was called out. When it was their turn, they got to meet Santa and receive their gift.

The boys were so successful in their fundraising efforts that they had money left over. They used the remainder to buy the whole student body candy and a puzzle, and the extra $364 was donated to Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School, which was given to a couple of families in need.

Cole had some advice for any other young people who want to pursue a social outreach activity like this, “Keep trying. It was hard because we’re just two high school students asking people for money. Keep going and keep motivated. Everything was really worth it. All the time we put into it – collecting money, loading bags, buying everything – it was so worth it.”

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor

Catholic Charities: The Key to Change is Education

A

men, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me. – Matt. 25:40 When we engage with those who come to Catholic Charities of North Louisiana seeking help, one of the first things we do is make them feel welcome, let them know we respect them and are here to walk with them through any crisis they may be facing. We take seriously what we learn from Matthew 25. It is our credo that we live by every day.

For most of us, beginning a new year renews us with hope that we can accomplish our goals and perhaps, begin afresh. Our desire is to put away old, bad habits and replace them with healthy productive new ones. We see a bright new beginning and a future full of the things we most desire. It may be hard to consider that those who come in need to Catholic Charities for answers and assistance do not share that hope, not for the new year, not for any time in their recent past and certainly not for the distant future.

Something we don’t realize about the poor is how hard it is just to get from one day to the next.

Imagine being hopeful when you are facing homelessness and you have five children depending on you for all their needs.

You can’t even meet your own, let alone theirs. You aren’t able to provide them with even the bare necessities. Now you have another generation that only knows hopelessness. How can we make a significant difference in that generational cycle of poverty?

Catholic Charities believes the key to any change is education.

We continue to broaden what we teach to help move our clients out of the circumstances that keep them seeking assistance from various agencies. If your eyes are opened that shopping wisely at the grocery store and preparing meals at home has more than the positive effect of healthier eating and better nutrition for the family, it means they may be able to put a small amount into a savings account for the first time. With that insight, they are more likely to make those positive changes. If they have gone from one quick loan place to another and are now in peril of losing their car, and their transportation to the job they finally got, learning how to avoid predatory lenders is crucial to break the debt cycle.

We hope that you will join us in this effort to move people out of poverty and toward a better, more hopeful life. There are many ways you can take part. You can become a sustaining member by joining our Matthew 25 Partnership, devoting a monthly pledge to the work of Catholic Charities, volunteer for any of our six programs of assistance or perhaps become a greeter who answers the door and makes welcome any who come for help. Whatever you choose, we will be grateful and will welcome you into our family of those who love to do God’s work.

by Theresa Mormino, Catholic Charities of North Louisiana February 2015 17

NEWS

OUr Lady of Guadalupe Meet Kevin Prevou: New Honored at Christ the King DIrector of Campus, Youth & Young Adult Ministries

Ellen presented Our Lady to two of the Council Trustees. L to R: Paul Murray, Doyle Blasingame, Robert Bradeen, Ellen's husband and current Financial Secretary, Calvin Joyner and Ellen Bradeen.

A

fter the stroke of midnight on December 11, Bishop Michael G. Duca began blessing the large quantities of articles that had been brought into Christ the King parish to start the special services in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Christ the King has a large number of parishioners of Mexican heritage who annually start the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe by bringing in their important religious items consisting of statues, pictures, candles and other memorabilia, to be blessed on her special feast day. After the blessing the items are returned to their homes and prominently displayed to honor Our Lady throughout the year.

This year something very special happened: word was that Bishop Duca was planning to attend. The church was filled to the rafters for this special midnight service.

There was also another notable addition. Nearly four years ago, a very talented lady, Ellen Bradeen, was asked if she would create a “counted cross-stitch” creation to replace a beautiful picture that the Knights of Columbus Bossier Council #4873 had mounted in the prayer garden behind the Council home.

That picture had, over the years, become very sun-faded and needed to be replaced, but, this time it would be properly framed and mounted inside the Council home. Ellen came in and, after reviewing several pictures, chose one and indicated that she would do her best to replace it.

After years in the making and with the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe quickly approaching, I received a phone call from Ellen advising me that she had finished her labor of love, and requested that her husband and I meet with her to select a proper frame for Our Lady. We found the right one and the frame shop had it ready for the Midnight Celebration welcoming in the feast day.

I had the honor of taking a Masterpiece of Love, a most beautiful counted cross-stitch of Our Lady of Guadalupe, to Christ the King that Thursday evening, along with District Marshall Calvin Joyner, and held it while Bishop Duca gave his special blessing to it. All in attendance were invited to come forward to view and or have pictures taken with the portrait with their children or whole families.

by David Bodden 18 Catholic Connection

I

t is with great excitement that the Diocese of Shreveport announces the hiring of Kevin Prevou as the new Director of Campus, Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Kevin comes with 33 years of experience –14 years in parish youth ministry and 19 years in diocesan youth ministry – working in San Antonio, Houston and, most recently, Ft. Worth, TX. He has a Master’s degree in Religious Education from St. Thomas University in Houston.

While the dioceses of Ft. Worth and Shreveport are very different in size, the two, said Kevin, share some important features, including many rural and small mission communities. “I was out in rural areas all the time doing trainings, helping folks get their youth ministries going – whatever they needed,” said Kevin. “The bishop at that time said ‘Get out there and serve the people, give them what they need.’ And I’m hearing a similar message here, certainly when I met with Bishop Duca. He wants to make sure the communities out there are served so they can develop vibrant ministry with young people.”

Kevin believes that young people are crucial to the life of any lively parish. “If you could have a great parish without having young people really involved in the life, mission and work of the Church, then I’d go do something else. But I just haven’t seen it,” said Kevin. “The really exciting churches are those churches where young people are invited into all aspects of the church. They’re not seen as ‘what are we going to do with those kids,’ they’re seen as an asset to the parish and part of the life of ministry of that parish.”

To help build that momentum of youth involvment, Kevin believes it’s important to work with the people already serving in youth ministry locally. He counts one of his personal strengths as being able to explain the processes and “why’s” behind procedures and policies to help each church build up their youth communities.

Kevin is very excited to be working for the Diocese of Shreveport.

“This just seemed like a place with a great spirit. Then coming and interviewing here for the position, I just felt like, wow, these folks are enjoying coming into the office and they’re really focused on their ministry. And that’s what I really love to do,” he said.

Randy Tiller, Director of Mission Effectiveness and part of the hiring committee, echoes Kevin’s excitement, “Kevin Prevou comes to the diocese with a wealth of knowledge and world of youth ministry experience. As a past diocesan director, he has the maturity and skills to coordinate his ministry with other diocesan departments for the best results. Above all Kevin has faith in today’s youth and their role in the Church of today and the Church of the future.”

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor

HISPANIC corner

por Rosalba Quiroz 318-868-4441

La Orden del Presidente Obama Sobre Inmigración

E

l pasado 20 de Noviembre del 2014, el Presidente Barack Obama decidió abrir una ventana para algunos inmigrantes indocumentados que viven en este país. Esta vez el presidente ejecutó una Orden que permite a ciertos padres de familia solicitar acción diferida (DAPA) y autorización de empleo si: 1. Han residido continuamente en los Estados Unidos desde el 1 de enero de 2010 2. Son padres de un ciudadano estadounidense o un residente permanente legal que nació en o antes del día que el Presidente dio esta Orden.

3. No están en las listas de deportaciones o tienen crímenes graves. (necesita consultar una oficina autorizada de inmigración para ver que crímenes impedirían calificar) Aunque la Oficina de Inmigración no está aceptando peticiones o solicitudes todavía, usted puede comenzar a preparar documentos que comprueben factores como su identidad, su relación con un ciudadano estadounidense o residente permanente legal y que haya vivido continuamente en los Estados Unidos durante los últimos cinco años o más.

Seguramente la Oficina de Inmigración está publicando o está a punto de publicar este mes o en los meses muy cercanos, las pautas a seguir para enviar sus peticiones. Esta oficina aconseja que

la mejor manera de asegurarse que obtiene la información correcta, es que la obtenga directamente a través de su página oficial, www. uscis.gov.

Las personas no autorizadas a practicar Leyes de Inmigración podrían intentar aprovecharse de usted cobrándole una tarifa por presentar formularios a inmigración de parte de usted o diciéndole que pueden proveerle acceso especial o servicios de trámite acelerado que aún NO existen. Para conocer cómo obtener la ayuda migratoria correcta, también a la oficina de inmigración en la sección “Evite Estafas”. www.uscis.gov/es/ eviteestafas.

La Oficina de Caridades Católicas del Norte de Luisiana está preparada para ayudar a todos los inmigrantes de bajos recursos que califiquen para este y otros beneficios de inmigración. Esta oficina tiene todos los permisos y conocimiento necesarios para servirle en español y cuentan con abogado local y personal autorizado por inmigración para llenar sus solicitudes, además de cobrar bajas tarifas y ofrecer un excelente servicio.

Favor de contactar la Oficina de Caridades Católicas del Norte de Luisiana para una consulta de inmigración.

Localizada en: 331 E. 71st Street, Shreveport, LA 71106 o llamando al teléfono 318-865-0200, Extensiones 102 y 105.

Calendario del Mes de Febrero del 2015 18 Miércoles de Ceniza (Día de Ayuno y Abstinencia) y principio del Tiempo de Cuaresma.

Recordando que son 40 días que marca la iglesia como tiempo de conversión con Oración, Ayuno y Buenas Obras. Al final de este tiempo acompañamos a Jesús en una manera más profunda y de fe durante su Pasión,

Muerte, y Resección.

A partir de este día, todos los viernes de Cuaresma se guardan con ayuno y abstinencia.

26 Programa de VIRTUS, Protegiendo a los Niños de Dios.

Santa María de los Pinos, 6:30 p.m.

February 2015 19

school NEWS < In December, St. Joseph School students continued their tradition of making Christmas a little merrier for those in need in our area through Christian Service. For decades SJS has been collecting items for Christian Service to distribute to its clients.

A new tradition that began last year was the Operation Love project. School-wide, students brought in hygiene items, small toys and religious items, and after the school Mass on Friday, December 19, SJS middle school students assembled those items and put them in “Love Bags.” On Monday, December 22, Operation Love participants (SJS middle school students) showed up at Christian Service Hospitality House to help serve a hot meal and offer a nice Christmas dinner experience at the Hospitality House. They distributed the “Love Bags” as clients finished their meals.

^ Three Loyola faculty members, Religion teacher Michelle Brown, and Science teachers Chris Vaughan and Laura Woolbert, will be part of a seminar that will explore the topic of “Science & Religion: Strangers, Rivals or Partners in the Search for the Truth?” presented by the Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame.

^ St. Frederick High School students celebrated “A Day of Reflection” on January 5 with special guest speaker Roy Petitfils. Petitfils spoke to the students about being You-nique. Students broke out into groups for discussion. They were excited about the new semester and felt refreshed and focused.

^ Third - sixth graders from Our Lady of Fatima School prepare to face off in the Annual Catholic Schools Week Religion Bowl.

> The 6th graders at Jesus the Good Shepherd School organized a cupcake sale to help two families assisted by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul have a better Christmas. Over $500 was raised, which was used to purchase a refrigerator for one family and pay a deposit for electricity for another family.

20 Catholic Connection

^ The National Integrated Cyber Education Research Center (NICERC) recently visited St. John Berchmans School to pilot their new Glider module with 6th grade students and science teacher. This module takes students through the Engineering Design Process (EDP) and introduces them to the concepts and applications of drones.

around the DIOCESE

1 1

2

On December 14, the children of St. Joseph Parish in Zwolle moved everyone’s heart with a Nativity Play.

The children were very excited to play their roles. Aubrey Sepulvado gave an emotional performance, singing a solo of “Silent Night.”

2

On Friday, December 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, parishioners of St. John the Baptist Parish came together to celebrate the feast of this special saint. There was a special evening Mass at 6:00 p.m., followed by fellowship in the cafeteria featuring some foods of Mexico.

3

Three of our youth leaders in the Diocese of Shreveport attended the National Catholic Conference for Youth Ministers (NCCYM) 2014, in San Antonio December 4-6: Shelly Schmidt from Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Monroe, Edgar Pardo from Christ the King Parish in Bossier and Marcos Villalba from St. Ann Church in Stonewall.

3

4

Before heading out for Christmas Break, members of ACTS (Association of Catholic Tech Students) spread holiday cheer by caroling at The Arbor and Terrace of Ruston. The singers were coordinated by the Social Justice Committee of ACTS and the Catholic Campus Ministry Program at St. Thomas Aquinas parish who serve the students at Louisiana Tech University.

5

Knights of Columbus Council #3407 (Broadmoor Council) of Shreveport is a winner of the Columbian and Founders’ awards for the 2013-2014 fraternal year. The Columbian Award is presented for excellence in sponsoring programs that serve the Church, community, families, culture of life and youth – as well as council members.

The Founders’ Award is given for outstanding promotion of the organization’s fraternal insurance program. The Broadmoor Council of the Knights of Columbus supports St. Joseph Parish and Holy Trinity Parish in Shreveport, as well as St. Joseph Parish in Mansfield. The announcement was made by the Knights of Columbus international headquarters located in New Haven, CT. Charlie Olivier, Financial Secretary presented the engraved plaque to the Council at a special ceremony held on November 20.

4

5 February 2015 21

upcoming EVENTS February 1: St. Brigid Feast Day Celebration at St. Mary of the Pines Parish St. Mary’s will celebrate the life of St. Brigid of Ireland on her feast day, February 1, with a rosary in English and Irish, procession of the icon of St. Brigid and Mass. After Mass the celebration will continue with an Irish brunch and a St. Brigid’s Prayer Walk. Everyone is invited to this special day. For more information, call Kim at 318-687-5121. Don’t worry – they will be finished in plenty of time for the Super Bowl! A rosary and icon procession will begin at 8:30 a.m. and Mass will begin at 9:00 a.m.

A ceili and brunch will follow in Vandegaer Hall.

February 7: Extraordinary Form of the Mass in Latin at the Cathedral In addition to beautiful Masses, liturgies, adoration/ benediction, devotions, the Cathedral parish also offers, for those interested, the opportunity to pray the Mass in the Extraordinary Form (Latin Mass). The Mass will be held on February 7 at 8:30 a.m. All are welcome. Please check our website for updates and news, www. sjbcathedral.org “What earlier generations held as sacred, remains sacred and great for us too … A precious treasure to be preserved.” – Pope Benedict XVI February 12: Shreveport-Bossier Pro-Life Oratory Contest An opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to express their pro-life views on one of four topics, (the tragedy of abortion, the tragedy of

euthanasia, the tragedy of infanticide, or the tragedy of embryonic stem cell research). Talks should be 5-7 minutes long and do not have to be memorized. The event will take place Thursday, February 12, from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Catholic Center, 3500 Fairfield Avenue, Shreveport.

Cash prizes are $250 for first place, $200 for second place and $150 for third place.

The winner of the local contest is invited to speak at Bishop Duca’s Pro-Life Banquet on March 11 at the Bossier Civic Center, and advances to the state competition. For more information, or to register, contact Christine Rivers at the Catholic Center, 318868-4441, or criverss@dioshpt.org February 23: Theology on Tap for Young Adults Mike Van Vranken, author of Faith Positive in a Negative World, will be speaking to young adults about taking their faith to work no matter what their work is.

What would happen if we didn’t have to divide our lives into two worlds – faith on Sundays and special occasions and the domain we live in the rest of our lives? We all want to live authentic lives in a world that can be pretty inauthentic and even harsh at times. How do we live “in the world” but not be “of the world”? How are you already living a faith positive lifestyle? Please come for this great evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Tacomania Grill Cantina in Shreveport, located at 641 E Kings Hwy. For more information, call Kevin Prevou at 318868-4441.

February 28: Living Christ in Your Marriage: A Day of Adult Formation in Your Marriage Covenant in Christ St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Shreveport will host this event beginning at 9:00 a.m. Together couples will deepen their adult theological reflection skills on the remarkable covenant of Christian marriage; focus hopes, dreams and worries on Christ; learn how their experience of marriage is nurtured through the Church's foundational teachings on the sacrament; and develop spirituality around marriage as a vocation. The presenter will be Jim Schellman. Registration is $40 per couple.

Contact Anna Provenza at the church office to register: aprovenza@bellsouth.net or 318-798-1887.

February 28: Magnificat Brunch for ladies will be held at the Shreveport Catholic Center, 3500 Fairfield Ave., from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be Mary Wilson, a native of New Orleans, who is active in music ministry, a founding member of the CENLA Magnificat group, and works with the Women’s Charismatic Conference. We will share a meal and worship and praise together! Paid reservations are required. $15 checks made out to NOWELA Maginficat Chapter, are due by February 20 to Marjorie Ainsworth (1575 Parks Rd. Benton, LA 71006). Include your name and phone number. For more information, contact Susan Tousignant, 318-366-1392.

2 0 1 5 D i o c e s a n s t e wa r d s h i p A p p e a l

I / We would like to contribute to the Diocesan Stewardship Appeal with a total yearly pledge of: $10,000

$2,500

$800

$400

$200

$7,500 $5,000 $3,500

$2,000 $1,500 $1,000

$750 $650 $500

$350 $300 $250

$150 $100 $_______

Please send monthly reminders to:

At this time I / we are enclosing:

$_____________

Print Name________________________________________________________________________________

Diocese of Shreveport The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 www.dioshpt.org

22 Catholic Connection

Address___________________________________________________________________________________ City______________________________________________________State_________Zip Code____________ My / Our Church Parish______________________________________________________________________ Signature__________________________________________________________________________________ You may make a credit card payment online at: www.dioshpt.org (Click on Stewardship)

calendar

february 2015

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Appeal Announcement Sunday

Southern Deanery Youth Vision & Planning Session, St. Joseph Parish, Zwolle, 6pm

Priest Retirement Committee Meeting, Catholic Center, 11am

Diocesan Finance Council Meeting, Catholic Center 12pm

Catholic Protecting God's Scouting Mass, Children, Jesus the Cathedral, 11am The Presentation Good Shepherd of the Lord Parish, 6pm World Day for St. Blaise, bishop & Consecrated martyr, St. Ansgar, Life bishop

St. Agatha, virgin & martyr

Legislators' Luncheon, Catholic Center, 11am

St. Paul Miki and companions, martyrs

Youth Planning Session / FEb 2

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Appeal Education Sunday

Deadline for the March Catholic Connection

Confirmation, Holy Trinity Parish, 12pm

Calling Catholics Home Begins, Cathedral, 6:30pm St. Scholastica, virgin

Protecting God's Children Class, Catholic Center, 6pm

Pro-Life Oratory Contest, Catholic Center, 6pm

Confirmation, Jude Parish, 5pm

2nd Collection: Church in Central & Eastern Europe

Our Lady of Lourdes World Day of the Sick

Sts. Cyril, monk, & Methodius, bishop

Appeal Sunday / FEB 15

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Appeal Sunday

President's Day

Confirmation, Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 9am

Confirmation, Mary, Queen of Peace Parish, 6pm

The Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order

Ash Wednesday

Catholic Center Staff Retreat Offices Closed

LENT BEGINS Operation Rice Bowl Begins (through April 5)

2nd Collection: Church in Central & Eastern Europe

2nd Collection: Black & Indian Missions St. Peter Damian, bishop & doctor of the Church

Ash Wednesday/ FEB 18

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Rite of Election, Cathedral, 2:30pm

Theology on Tap, Tacomania, Shreveport, 7pm

2nd Collection: Black & Indian Missions

St. Polycarp, bishop & martyr

Living Christ in Your Marriage, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 9am

Protecting God's Children Class, St. Mary of the Pines Parish, 6:30pm

First Sunday of Lent

Rite of Election/ Feb 22

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Second Sunday of Lent

St. Katharine Drexel, virgin

St. Casimir

World Day of Prayer

Sts. Perpetua & Felicity, martyrs

1st Sunday of Lent / Feb 22 February 2015 23

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

â&#x20AC;˘

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Photo of the month by Heather Vidrine Father David T. Richter celebrates the Eucharist with Fr. Matthew Long at Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish in Monroe.

24 Catholic Connection