Catholic Connection May 2012

VOL. 21, NO.10 MAY 2012

Diaconate Formation Completes Second Year

May 2012

Contents

Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Regular Contributors Bishop Michael Duca Dianne Rachal Kim Long Christine Rivers Theresa Mormino Katie Sciba Fr. Rothell Price Mike Van Vranken Rosalba Quiroz John Mark Willcox Featured Contributors Fr. Francis Kamau Michael Straub Nancy Frazier O'Brien Linda Webster Sr. Martinette Rivers Mike Whitehead Editorial Board Dianne Rachal Cathy Cobb Christine Rivers Rev. Charles Glorioso John Mark Willcox Kim Long Kelly Phelan Powell 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.

For a free subscription, address changes or article submissions: EMAIL: jrinaudo@dioshpt.org WRITE: C atholic Connection The Catholic Center 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 CALL: 318-868-4441

OR 800-256-1542 FAX: 318-868-4609 WEBSITE: www.thecatholicconnection.org The Catholic Connection is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

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Bishop Michael Duca’s May 2012 Schedule.......................................................3 New in Slattery Library........................................................................................3 Bishop’s Reflection by Most Rev. Michael G. Duca............................................4-5 Safe Environment Audit by Deacon Michael Straub...........................................6 Who Does It Belong to Anyway? by Mike Van Vranken......................................6 Angelic Sweetness: The Blessed Mother’s Approach to Parenting

by Katie Sciba.................................................................................................. 7 From the Bishop’s Desk by Bishop Michael G. Duca............................................ 7 Small Church Profile: St. Terence Church, Many by Linda Webster...................8 Second Collection: Diocese of Shreveport Retired Priests Fund

by Fr. Rothell Price.......................................................................................9 Catholic Charities Grows with Support of Diocesan Catholics

by Theresa Mormino.....................................................................................10 Senior Month: The L’s and W’s of Life by Sr. Martinette Rivers .........................10 School News.......................................................................................................11 Diaconate Formation Completes Second Year by Mike Whitehead....................12-13 Trust and Listen by Kim Long................................................................................ 14 Retreat for Lectors................................................................................................. 14 Red Mass to Celebrate 20th Anniversary by John Mark Willcox......................... 15 Three Brothers of the Lyke Community to Profess Vows

by Fr. Francis Kamau....................................................................................15 Catholics Urged to Resist Unjust Laws, Join in ‘Fortnight for Freedom’

by Nancy Frazier O’Brien................................................................................. 16 Meet the Department: Chancery............................................................................ 17

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.

Hispanic Corner by Rosalba Quiroz...................................................................... 18 News Briefs by Catholic News Service.................................................................. 19 Around the Diocese................................................................................................ 20-21 Upcoming Events................................................................................................22 May 2012 Calendar.............................................................................................23 Mission Possible Retreat ....................................................................................... 24

Bishop Michael Duca’s

May Schedule

MAY 2 Confirmation; St. Joseph Church, Zwolle; 6:00 p.m.

MAY 4 Red Mass; Holy Trinity Church, Shreveport; 9:00 a.m.

MAY 5 Confirmation; St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Ruston; 5:00 p.m.

MAY 6 Confirmation; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 11:00 a.m.

MAY 8 Office of Canonical Services Meeting; Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe; 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

MAY 14 St. Frederick High School Baccalaureate Mass; Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe; 5:00 p.m.

St. Frederick High School Graduation; Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe; 6:00 p.m.

MAY 15 Office of Canonical Services Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 9:00 a.m. –12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

St. Catherine Community Center Appreciation Dinner; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 6:00 p.m.

MAY 17 Loyola College Prep Baccalaureate Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 6:00 p.m.

MAY 18 Loyola College Prep Graduation; RiverView Hall and Theater, Shreveport; 7:00 p.m.

MAY 20 Confirmation; St. Ann Church, Stonewall; 9:00 a.m.

MAY 21 Presbyteral Council Meeting; Catholic Center, 1:00 p.m.

MAY 22 - 24 Visit Bishop Emeritus William B. Friend; Ft. Lauderdale, Florida On the cover: Jack and Teresa Lynch participate in morning prayer.

Every Diaconate class begins with Liturgy of the Hours. (Photo by Mike Whitehead).

New in the Slattery Library Slattery Library DVD Resources on Spirituality from Franciscan Media: • RELIGIOUS CLASSICS – Explores the lives of six prominent spiritual writers: Augustine, Julian of Norwich, Ignatius of Loyola, Jonathan Edwards, Friedrich von Hugel and Teresa of Avila.

• QUESTIONS OF THE SOUL – A five-part series: What is Spirituality? What is Prayer? What Can Suffering Teach Us? What is Spiritual Discipline? Do I Really Need Community?

Books: • Doing the Right Thing at Work: A Catholic’s Guide to Faith, Business and Ethics – Includes a Five-Point Program for Doing the Right Thing in Business, the Daily Examen for Busy Businesspeople, and A Catholic Framework for Economic Life.

• Surprised by Canon Law (Volumes 1 and 2) – a series of questions and answers about topics in Canon Law, written in a positive and understandable manner, by two Catholic laymen who have practical careers serving the faithful through the Church’s ministry of Canon Law (both books have the nihil obstat and imprimatur).

Slattery Library is now staffed by a library assistant Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

2012 Diocesan Directories Available for Order!

Directories are $8, including S&H. Please send checks made out to Diocese of Shreveport and this form to: Diocese of Shreveport Attn: Diocesan Directories 3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 There is a limited supply and they will be sold on a first come, first serve basis.

I would like to purchase _______ copies at $8 each.

Name: ______________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________ City, State and Zip: ____________________________________ Phone Number: _______________________________________

La Reflexión del Obispo

por Obispo Michael G. Duca

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ace alrededor de un mes que de pronto nos damos cuenta de la Cuando nos damos cuenta de cuánto participé en un taller sobre misericordia de Dios, la ayuda de Dios debemos estar agradecidos porque el celibato en el sacerdocio y el amor y cariño que Dios nos tiene. nuestra vida es un Regalo, entonces patrocinado por la universidad de Esta no es solo una idea de la mente encontramos una nueva capacidad Notre Dame. Uno de los presentadores sino también, y tal vez mas importante, de generosidad que nos libera para fue el Padre Raniero Cantalamessa, es una experiencia del corazón. ser mejores gozosamente con los más O.F.M., Cap., que es predicador a Podemos recibir la gracia en estos necesitados. Esta es la fuente de una la Casa Papal, o sea predicador del momentos de revelación espiritual en Iglesia llena del espíritu. Cuando Papa. Esta es una posición honorifica cualquier momento. Podemos recibir entendemos y experimentamos el que el Padre Cantalamessa ha tenido esta gracia mientras vemos niños REGALO de nuestra fe, entonces desde 1980. Si vieron los servicios en jugando, en momentos de oración LA OBIGACION se convierte en Roma de la Semana Santa se dieron o adoración, aun en momentos de un ¡ACTO DE AMOR! La pregunta cuenta que era el entonces cambia de Padre Cantalamessa una obligación mínima, quien predicó al Papa “¿Que tengo que hacer?” el Viernes Santo. Esta buscando una respuesta, posición es un real a una pregunta diferente, recordatorio de que “¿Qué me está llamando aun el Papa está en Dios a hacer?” que para ser necesidad de dirección contestada requiere de una espiritual y apoyo. conversación en oración.

Aunque recibí El Padre Cantalamessa muchas ideas en nos recordó de esta esta reunión, las escritura: “el amor consiste palabras del Padre en esto, no que nosotros Cantalamessa fueron hemos amado a Dios las que me llegaron sino que Él nos amó más profundamente. primero.” (1 Juan 4:10) Su mensaje fue uno si ha de haber una nueva que yo ya conocía, evangelización, si vamos pero su presentación a respirar una nueva vida Padre Raniero Cantalamessa (CNS photo/Gregg McIntosh) lo hizo poderosamente en nuestros corazones crisis o insoportable sufrimiento. Por relevante hacia mí y pienso que a de fe y en la vida de la Iglesia, ejemplo, tal vez decidimos acercarnos todos nosotros en este mundo actual. debemos comenzar aquí. Debemos al sacramento de la Confesión y, sin El dijo que debemos recordar que pedir en oración corazones de carne planear, sinceramos nuestros corazones y no corazones de piedra. Debemos “EL REGALO llega primero que LA de cómo hemos tenido vergüenza OBLIGACION.” orar a Dios para que nos de la gracia de irnos a confesar y entonces, al Esta frase aparentemente simple nos de una apreciación renovada del escuchar las palabras de absolución, lleva al corazón de nuestra fe. Antes Regalo de nuestra fe. La Nueva nos abrumamos con el inmerecido pero Evangelización comienza en nuestros que podamos de verdad apreciar las generoso regalo de la misericordia y exigencias de nuestra fe, tenemos que corazones y en nuestras mentes. La amor de Dios. En todo caso nuestros estar consientes y apreciar el Regalo de Nueva Evangelización comienza corazones se llenan de un profundo nuestra fe. con corazones llenos de amor, amor sentido de agradecimiento y nos ¿Que quiero decir con “apreciar el que viene de un entendimiento que acercamos más profundamente al amor el Regalo, el amor de Dios vino Regalo de nuestra fe?” quiero decir de Dios por cada uno de nosotros. En que debemos ser agradecidos por los primero, antes del requisito de amor. estos momentos nos damos cuenta del momentos de nuestro viaje espiritual El maravilloso, liberador e inesperado REGALO del amor de Dios en nuestras giro es que cuando apreciamos el Católico cuando nuestra fe es tan vidas y cuando lo experimentamos, real y tan poderosa como el primer REGALO de nuestra fe como Católicos, la OBLIGACION de nuestra fe es momento que nos enamoramos – ese la obligación del DEBER es remplazada sorpresivamente una carga menos. momento en nuestra relación con Dios con la invitación al Amor.

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Bishop’s Reflection

by Bishop Michael G.Duca

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month or so ago I attended a workshop on priestly celibacy sponsored by the University of Notre Dame. One of the presenters was Father Raniero Cantalamessa, O.F.M., Cap., who is the preacher to the papal household, that is, the preacher to the pope. This is an honored position that Father Capuchin Father Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher of the papal household, gives the homily Cantalamessa has held since 1980. If during the Good Friday service, led by Pope Benedict XVI, in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican you watched the Holy Week services April 6. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) from Rome you will notice it was Father Cantalamessa who preached to the Pope on Good Friday. This position is a real prayer or adoration, even in moments source of a spirit-filled Church. When we reminder that even the Pope is in need of of crisis or unbearable struggle. For understand and experience the GIFT of spiritual direction and support. example, perhaps we decide to approach our faith, then DUTY becomes an ACT While I received many insights from the sacrament of Confession and, without OF LOVE! The question then changes this meeting, it was the words of Father planning, we pour out our hearts about from a minimal one of obligation, “What Cantalamessa that struck me as profound. so much that we have been ashamed to do I have to do?” that just wants an His message was one I knew intellectually, confess and then, in hearing the words of answer, to a different question, “What but his presentation made it powerfully absolution, we become overwhelmed with does God call me to do?,” which requires relevant to me and I think to all of us in the undeserved but generous gift of God’s a conversation in prayer to answer. today’s world. He said we must remember mercy and love. In every case our hearts Father Cantalamessa reminded us of that “GIFT comes before DUTY.” are filled with a deep sense of thankfulness this scripture: “Love consists in this, not This seemingly simple that we have loved God but phrase takes us to the heart of that he has loved us first.” our faith. Before we can fully (1 John 4:10) If there is to In these moments we become embrace the demands of our be a new evangelization, faith, we must become aware we are going to breathe aware of the GIFT of God’s love in ifnew of and appreciate the Gift of life into our hearts of our faith. faith and into the life of our lives and when we experience What do I mean by our Church, then it must “appreciating the Gift of our begin here. We must ask this, the DUTY of our faith is faith?” I mean we must be in prayer for hearts of flesh surprisingly less a burden. thankful for the moments and not hearts of stone. We of our Catholic spiritual should pray to God to give journey when our faith is us the grace of a renewed as real and as powerful as and we are drawn more deeply into the appreciation of the Gift of our faith. The the first moment we fell in love — that love of God for each one of us.

New Evangelization begins in our hearts moment in our relationship with God that In these moments we become aware and minds. The New Evangelization we suddenly became aware of God’s mercy, of the GIFT of God’s love in our lives and begins with hearts full of love, love that God’s help and God’s love and care for us. when we experience this, the DUTY of comes from an understanding that the This is not just an insight of the mind our faith is surprisingly less a burden.

Gift, the love of God, came first, before but also, and maybe more importantly, an When we realize how much we have to the requirements of love. The wonderful, experience of the heart. We can be graced be thankful for, that is, how much of our freeing, unexpected twist is that when with these moments of spiritual insight life is a Gift, then we find a new capacity we appreciate the GIFT of our faith as at any time. We can receive this grace for generosity that frees us to share more Catholics, the obligation of DUTY is while watching children play, in times of joyfully with those in need. This is the replaced by the invitation of Love.

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Safe Environment Audit

Who Does It Belong to Anyway?

by Deacon Michael Straub, Human Resources Director and Safe Environment Coordinator

by Mike Van Vranken

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he Diocese of Shreveport participates in an annual audit on its safe environment program (Protecting God's Children). Since the program’s inception in 2002, the diocese has been found fully compliant with each of the 17 articles of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. During this past audit period, which ended June 30, 2011, we were found to be again fully compliant in our training of adults and children and our background check processes. Unfortunately we were found to be noncompliant in regards to one requirement. Our Permanent Review Board is required to meet at least once each year and they did not meet within this audit period.

Upon discovering this mistake we quickly assembled our review board, as required, which placed us back into full compliance with the charter.

The Permanent Review Board is an integral part of the diocese’s response to claims of abuse of a minor as outlined by the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. Even though the required yearly meeting was not held, the Permanent Review Board of the diocese was formed and ready to fulfill its responsibilities. This board consists of experienced professionals from law enforcement, legal council, and mental health disciplines specializing in child abuse trauma and family counseling.

In other aspects of the audit the dioceses of the United States have the option to have their audits also at the parish level. Only a third of the dioceses chose to have the audit firm enter their parishes. We are and will continue to be one of these dioceses. We have also been given recognition for our additional actions that go beyond the scope of the charter. We are recognized by the audit firm and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops for our extra efforts in training and placing a Local Safe Environment Coordinator in each parish and school to help monitor safe environment compliance. These volunteer coordinators also receive annual reviews and updates and share their techniques for implementing safe environment in their parishes and schools with other coordinators.

Over the past 10 years we have trained almost 5,000 adults to be proactive in creating a safe environment for our children. We will continue to be steadfast in our efforts to provide a safe environment for our children, young people, vulnerable adults and families within our churches, schools and offices.

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y employer provides a car for my use to accomplish the works they have given me to do. The car’s primary use is to perform the tasks my job requires. The company has strict rules explaining how it can be used for both business and personal needs. My responsibilities include keeping it in excellent working condition, not abusing it, protecting it from danger and harm and only using it in ways that respect its purpose. Now, I have the free will to abuse it or even damage it, but any use or care of the car that does not comply with the rules and responsibilities that come with it would be considered negligence and even immoral. The car is not mine; it belongs to my employer.

My God provides me with a physical body for my use to accomplish the works HE has given me to do. Scripture says it gives Him glory when I accomplish those works. (John 17:4).

He expects me to take care of this body, protect it from danger and harm and only use it in ways that respect its purpose. Of course, I have the free will to use it any way I want to, however, any use or care of my physical self that does not fall in line with His wishes would be considered disobedience and even immoral. This body is not mine. It is His. God gives us clear direction concerning the use of our bodies.

We are called to specifically bring Jesus to the world. He explains how our bodies are to be used for that purpose: • “...offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1) • “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19) • “...yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20) • “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you.” (Jeremiah 1:5) • “For I know well the plans I have for you...” (Jeremiah 29:11) Action plans for the month of May: 1. Save this message and read it one time every day in May. 2. Notice key words or phrases (“your spiritual worship”; “you are not your own”; “no longer I, but Christ”; “before I formed you”; “plans I have for you.”)

3. Make a commitment today to never, ever use your body for anything without first asking God His plan.

My God has provided me with a physical body to accomplish the works HE has given me to do. But this body is not mine. It belongs to Him!

Angelic Sweetness: The Blessed Mother’s Approach to Parenting by Katie Sciba

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have a spiritual accountability partner (henceforth referred to as SAP). Like many souls, my drive and motivation toward the prayerful life tend to fluctuate and I can’t tell you how this girl helps keep my heart above water. We check up on each other every few weeks and though our discussions frequently stray from the spiritual to the domestic, I’m always inspired at the close of our conversations. We’ve been staying in touch for just over a year now, and it’s certain that God is working through her to move my soul. The other day we were talking about disciplining young toddlers and she mentioned maintaining “the angelic sweetness of Mary” toward both her little ones and husband. Since our conversation, this phrase has been incessantly ringing in my soul. I’ve read that angelic sweetness stems from a prayer life that is constant – a life that is centered on God. What’s particularly wonderful to me personally is that my confessor recently advised me to always stay in touch with God; to bring Him everything – EVERYTHING. I’m amazed at how God is persistently sending me this message through my SAP and confessor mentioning at the same time. I want to bring God all matters great and simple because I know that without Him, I’m nothing but bad habits on two legs.

Both of my little ones are sick and my infant is especially crabby these days.

Though in the midst of his constant crying I know he’s suffering and I try to console him, the wailing in my ear is enough to make me lose my mind when all I want is a quick morning nap for myself. While he’s crying, my toddler begs for breakfast right when the phone rings. I can’t tell you how often this situation hits our house – nearly every morning – and it’s the type of thing I want to have the presence of mind to bring to Christ; asking Him to help me calm my infant with tenderness and serve my toddler sweetly. The whirlwind provides a challenge, albeit less significant than most of the troubles in the world, but knowing that Christ is present in my endeavors strengthens my will profoundly. In bringing Him everything that’s on my heart – each stress and joy – my soul will certainly

obtain peace and angelic sweetness. I have long had the desire to be sweet, but could never put my finger on how to go about it. Habitual and ritual occasions of prayer help develop the virtue of constant prayer: it should be breath, always flowing in and out of my soul, receiving the love of God and offering it back to Him in addition to the morning offering, blessing before meals and Sunday Mass.

The more crucial aspect of “the angelic sweetness of Mary” is the Blessed Mother herself. Consider how sweet she is – the Queen of even God’s heart. Consider how earth-shattering it would be to have Christ physically present in your family at all times as she and St. Joseph did. Consider the quality of marriage they had; that’s what I want: to have Christ always present in my marriage and family life and to accept the certain graces He brings. To a certain degree, I’m limited because I wasn’t born without sin like Mary; but if I allow God’s grace in my soul and breathe prayer in and out, I can offer to my family so much more than what I do now. With just one person moving toward a life of prayer and virtue, things change for every surrounding life. My husband is a “man after God’s own heart” and inspires me because he actively pursues to be even more so; and

my sons set a great example because they haven’t even sinned yet, so I have to catch up! The truth is that developing angelic sweetness is a feat in itself, but when I do remember to offer Christ the little ongoings of my mind and heart, there is nothing more comforting or empowering than His presence in every nook and cranny of my life. With persistence and the grace of God, this extraordinary virtue can become ordinary for my soul.

Katie Sciba is a writer for the Catholic blog www.truthandcharity.net.

From the Bishop’s Desk

by Bishop Michael G. Duca. ear Friends in Christ: I am both pleased and grateful to report that our 2012 Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal has been blessed by a strong start, and over 1.1 million dollars has already been pledged by the Catholic faithful of our diocese.

Congratulations are also in order for the eight parishes and chapels that have achieved their 2012 Appeal pledge goal!

I am encouraged that more than 83% of our Appeal pledge goal has been met in this early success by our Annual Appeal and I want to encourage every reader of our Catholic Connection to participate with a pledge or one-time gift to this important effort.

Amazingly, only around 2,800 donors or just 24% of our known Catholic families within our diocese have provided

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our Appeal with this success since February. Please consider adding your name to that list with a show of Appeal support and help us reach our overall diocesan pledge goal of 1.35 million dollars. Simply use the 2012 Appeal pledge card located on page 22 of this May edition of your Catholic Connection.

Know that you remain in my daily prayers and may God bless you for your support of our Appeal.

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SMALL CHURCH PROFILE: St. Terence Church, Many

by Linda Webster, PhD During the 25th anniversary year of the Diocese of Shreveport we are profiling small churches around the diocese.

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t. Terence is one of the newer parishes in the Diocese of Shreveport, established in 1996 to serve the Catholics in the Toledo Bend area. Originally, St. Terence was located in Pleasant Hill until lack of attendance forced the church to close in 1992.

The church building was an old army barracks purchased from Camp Claiborne by Bishop Greco in 1948. Moved to Toledo Bend in 1994, the building was renovated but age and St. Terence Church in Many, Louisiana. termite damage limited what the congregation could do.

“When the mission was relocated, there was a lot of hope but we’re all REALLY retired when this one is done!” and vision but no money,” wrote Buddy Polson, the parish Creating the interior took everyone’s help. The pews were historian. “It was a proud little church but its size soon became its purchased from St. Rita in Alexandria which had burned in 1994. biggest problem.”

They needed to be cleaned and sanded and refinished as a result About 20 people showed up for the first Mass, and then of the fire damage. attendance skyrocketed, outstripping the capacity of the church “We stored them in a chicken coop where the ladies of the with many faithful standing in the doorway as well as outside church worked through the summer getting them ready. It was for Sunday Mass. Since the building could not be enlarged hot – and it was smelly. But they got the pews in great shape.” due to the structural damage, parishioners began campaigning Other items were salvaged from the original St. Terence with Msgr. Buvens in 1995 for a new church. Although Bishop church including the altar and the statues. The altar of repose is William Friend approved plans for a 3,000 square foot building, crafted from an extra pew, and the stands for the statues plus the funding was still a large problem. holy water fonts were made by parishioners. The baptismal font “We looked around the congregation and realized that most was donated by another parishioner and the Stations of the Cross of us were retired engineers, carpenters and others who had the were refurbished donations, as well. skills to do the actual construction,” said Polson. “In fact, about “The backbone of the church is our Women’s Club,” said 90% of our congregation is retired. What we needed was the Polson. “We call them the ‘Angels of St. Terence’.” money to buy supplies. We could build it ourselves.”

From the beginning a group of women organized as With a grant from the Catholic Extension Society, ground was volunteers to clean the church and to purchase supplies for Mass. broken for the new church exactly one year after the old barracks They extracted dues from their members at $12 per year, solicited opened its doors. That structure still stands, serving as the parish donations, and have organized fundraisers. All this without hall. regular meetings.

“It was amazing,” he chuckled. “We’d work from about 7:00 “They have raised thousands of dollars over the years and they a.m. through noon, then everyone else would go home to take reach out to help anyone in need.” naps while I took the list of supplies that we needed for the next Fundraising has ranged from garage sales and raffles to saving day, loaded up my truck with building materials, and came back grocery receipts and operating a religious supply store. The store so that we could start early the next morning.” is no longer operating but anyone needing a rosary or a statue The church is located or other devotional item right on Hwy 191, which is just needs to ask – it will very convenient for weekend be ordered for them. vacationers at Toledo Bend.

“They have helped It’s also a very visible location many families by for passers-by. purchasing food, “People stopped all the clothing and medical time while we were building. supplies. They’ve paid Some wanted to make a utility bills for those in contribution toward the need and they adopt construction, others offered families at Christmas to volunteer their time. One with food and gifts.” church group from another Polson pointed out denomination asked if they that those they help are could hire us to build their seldom Catholic. “Their church when we finished.” unwritten creed would His eyes twinkled as he be to help ALL of God’s Fr. Joe Martina & Deacon Mike Sullivan distribute the Eucharist recounted their reply: “Sorry, people.” during Mass at St. Terence Church.

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On any given Sunday, there will be visitors from all over the region who are vacationing at Toledo Bend. Everyone is invited to the breakfast buffet next door in the “old” church where coffee, pastries, and fellowship are provided by those same “Angels.”

The St. Terence parishioners have a close relationship with St. John the Baptist in Many, served by Rev. Joseph A Martina, Jr. and Deacon Mike Sullivan, since they are a quasi-parish. The Knights of Columbus held a very successful fundraiser at St. Terence in August even though the Knights are based at St. John the Baptist.

One area of cooperation is the music ministry. Dan and Brenda Devaney come to the 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. Terence each week but both are music ministers at St. John the Baptist. Dan cantors and conducts while Brenda provides the

The Breakfast buffet, provided by St. Terence “Angels” is next door to the church.

keyboard accompaniment. After the 8:00 a.m. Mass at St. Terence, they have a 15 mile drive back to St. John the Baptist to prepare for the 10:00 am Mass.

Even though Polson claims to be retired from the church construction business, he said that there are many Sundays when every pew is filled and the church is brimming with worshippers.

“Today, we had a light crowd,” he said of the August 14 gathering where approximately 50 people were in place prior to the beginning of Mass. “This is nothing. There is standing room only at Christmas and Easter. Fourth of July is packed as are Memorial Day and Labor Day because of the lake. But we welcome them all!”

Second Collection: Diocese of Shreveport Retired Priests Fund | by Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General Bulletin Announcement Dates: May 6th & 13th Collection Dates: May 19th & 20th

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erhaps you are familiar with the picture of the old man giving thanks over his meal. There is a similar picture of an old woman doing the same. Sometimes those two images are brought together in one frame. Several things capture us in that painting: the hands and devotion of that woman and man certainly speak to our hearts. In their hands that have aged with time and duties, we see grace and a mysterious strength. In their bowed Fr. Patrick Scully and Bishop Emeritus heads and serene faces, we behold William Friend receive care from the Retired devotion, thankfulness, wisdom and Priests Fund. trust. Such are the hands and faces of the retired priests of our diocese. generosity to this collection. These men Whenever we are around them we are are the human incarnations in our midst drawn to them and their aged hands of the gratitude you show to God through and kindly faces. The grace and strength your heartfelt giving. And let’s not forget of many years of priestly ministry are those other old grace-filled hands of manifested in their inspiring hands priests who are past retirement age but and their faces speak to our hearts. who continue to spend themselves for Whether it’s at a special occasion Mass, the Lord and his people: Msgr. Carson a small intimate supper, or some other LaCaze, Fr. Richard Lombard, Fr. Larry gathering, we are mesmerized by old, Niehoff and Msgr. Earl Provenza. For grace-filled hands and mysteriously calm their strength, comfort and tranquility faces. They have served the Lord and us in their old age, please give generously to well, and they continue to do so with the Diocese of Shreveport Retired Priests the strength Collection. that only a Your kindness The grace and strength long union will brighten with God their days and of many years of priestly can provide carry them when the ministry are manifested in the whole year body is tired, their inspiring hands and their through. the mind is I hope you not quite so have turned in faces speak to our hearts. focused, and your Operation limitation Rice Bowls hampers their every intention. Please which further the work of Catholic give generously to the Diocese of Relief Services, and I thank you for Shreveport Retired Priests Fund. participating in that great Lenten Let’s lovingly recall those old hands and devotion. Thank you also for your faces, shall we? Bishop William Friend, participation in the Pontifical Good Msgr. Murray Clayton, Msgr. Franz Graef, Friday Holy Land Collection, the Fr. Walter Ebarb, Fr. John Kennedy, Fr. Diocese of Shreveport Church Vocations Roger McMullen, Msgr. Edmund Moore, Collection and the Home Mission Fr. Joseph Puthuppally, Fr. Patrick Scully Appeal Collection. May the peace of the and Fr. Kenneth Williams. These are Risen Christ make you glad, alleluia! the lives, hands and faces behind your 9 8

Catholic Charities Grows with Support of Diocesan Catholics | by Theresa Mormino

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any have asked for an update on progress for Gabriel’s Closet, Catholic Charities of Shreveport’s newest program. This Closet, which will provide essentials like baby furniture, gear, clothing and bottles for low-income new moms and their small children, is fully staffed by volunteers.

We are especially blessed to have volunteer nurses who will conduct parenting classes. Most recently, we’ve added a maternity clothing section that we hope will bring these new mothers to us sooner, giving us a better opportunity to assist, educate and guide those young women in need. We’ll announce the opening of Gabriel's Closet soon! Please visit our Facebook page for updates.

Since Catholic Charities of Shreveport opened its doors in July 2010, we have seen enormous growth in requests for emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities and other pressing and often critical needs by those who come to us for assistance. Unmet need is a difficult and troubling part of Catholic Charities across our nation and within our own diocese as well. We’ve served over 2,000 individuals since opening and have added an Immigration Center to raise awareness in our community about the difficulties faced by local immigrant families and to help them improve their living conditions and promote the welfare of their children.We are also planning Financial Education classes that will become a requirement for those who have received financial assistance. It is our desire to help the poor and vulnerable toward a more selfsufficient life.

Thankfully, the Diocesan Stewardship Appeal’s support of Catholic Charities of Shreveport is enabling us to go forward with these programs. We fill a gap that many other agencies are not presently offering, especially because our programs are preventative.

Because Catholic Charities of Shreveport is still so new to this diocese, many are unaware of the enormous scope of Catholic Charities in the U.S. In fact, it is the second largest human service organization in the country! CCUSA member agencies provide help and create hope for more than 10 million people each year.

Catholic Charities of Shreveport is proud to be a member of the Catholic Charities U.S.A. network.

The average poverty rate for our diocese is above the national average and the child poverty rate for children under age 5 is staggering, at 22.98% and 36.39% respectively. As you consider this sobering information, please remember to pray for the victims of hunger, fear, injustice and oppression and for the success of Catholic Charities of Shreveport, that we might be blessed with more funding for emergency assistance. Let us all pray for an end to higher poverty levels. That, after all, is the dream - to live to see an end to poverty. Some say that’s an impossibility, but we know that all things are possible through the grace of God!

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Senior Month: The L’s and W’s of Life

by Sr. Martinette Rivers, OLS

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hat makes an ‘old’ person unique?

Calling someone ‘old’, I believe, packs many different levels of meaning. You hear the phrases: crabby old person, happy old person, mean old person, kind old person and wise old person. But as the person who has lived the “L’s of Life,” live, listen, learn, love and laugh, or the “W’s of Life”, well, wise and whole, you don’t have to worry about some of the nastier adjectives applying to you.

In your mental album, you can trace the progress you have made as you became older and wiser. Have you learned to engage your body, mind and spirit in every aspect of your aging? This would have involved the three W’s.

For me, old age is the most creative, fruitful and fulfilling period of my life. It’s my special time to ponder and wonder in awe at the ‘blueprint’ God gave me at birth. These are moments to be treasured as I celebrate the month of May, which is dedicated to us agers around the world. Let’s rejuvenate our spirits, enjoy the moment and savor the best part.

“I will prove myself worthy of old age and leave to the young a noble example of how to die.” 2 Maccabees.

Our aging cannot be repeated, so express it with a quiet spirit and a lasting charm. To travel across the abyss between life and death, we need to be the best agers we can now because our journeys will eventually end and we will be homeward bound to heaven.

Aging is our necessary process in order to pass on to a better world; it is not a plague. Our death is merely a brief passage, a tunnel. Dare to live until the very last. Give something of yourself to others even when it seems there is nothing more to give. Be at peace and join me in the quest for a body worthy of resurrection when God will gently set our feet on heavenly soil.

Can we truthfully say we are the aging women and men God meant us to be? Some one wrote a letter to God and asked Him, “Why do people have to grow old?” God replied, “I find your question and thinking rather puzzling, but for me, the most beautiful moment on earth is seeing old people. They are my human sunsets.” Wow! Sunsets are probably the most awesome artwork God could possibly do with nature.

Lord, God, I am one of those called by you into old age, a call not given to all, not given to Jesus, and to many of my friends gone before me. Embrace me Lord, in every aspect of my aging eyesight, hearing, weakening legs and as my walking becomes more difficult. Be with me when my mind becomes less alert and my memory fades away. May my love for you continue when my heart slows after the work of all these years and may it rest securely in your loving heart until I am lost in you. Amen.

School News 5

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Our Lady of Fatima School students in grades 3-6 performed a dramatic depiction of Christ’s journey to Golgotha with the Living Stations of the Cross. The production proved to be a memorable experience for not only the guests in attendance, but also for the children who participated.

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The St. Frederick High School Quiz Bowl team competed in Natchitoches on March 31 in the State Quiz Bowl Championship Tournament.

Anthony Trombatore, SFHS Quiz Bowl Sponsor and science teacher, led the Warriors to a second place Division IV win. St. Frederick students not only garnered the 2nd place State Ranking, For months, Loyola’s students have they also earned a 3rd place Invitational watched as the newest addition to the Ranking and a 1st place Regional Loyola campus – the cafeteria/community Ranking. The team had a fun year and performed well. Geaux Warriors! center – was being built. On April 3 the Flyers found out that it was worth the wait Just an ordinary guy doing as the lunch was served in the building for extraordinary things. This is Harris the first time. Students and faculty alike LeBlanc, St. Joseph School were all thrilled with the new building, 8th Grader and St. Joseph Church which is located behind the gym. parishioner. Harris was named the 8th The new cafeteria features 5,000 Grade Student of the Year for all private square feet of dining space and well as a schools in the state of Louisiana. This completely modern kitchen and cooking honor was achieved not only by his facilities.

Loyola has not had a new dining facility exceptional academic performance, but also by his involvement in his church for its students since the present building and community. Congratulations to was constructed in 1938.

Harris, his parents Cliff and Colleen The new cafeteria/community center LeBlanc. He has represented St. Joseph is part of Phase I of the Loyola Forever School and the Diocese of Shreveport Capital Campaign. The school gym was very well. renovated during 2011.

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Jesus the Good Shepherd School’s PreK-4 students enjoyed a visit from the Easter Bunny before they had their annual classroom Easter Egg hunt. The students had a great time taking pictures with the Easter Bunny and hunting for candy-filled eggs. Prior to the Easter Egg Hunt, the students discussed the true meaning of Easter and what that meant to each of them.

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As part of Holy Week, eighth grade students from St. John Berchmans School performed their annual presentation of the Living Stations of the Cross on Holy Thursday in front of the entire student body, family, friends and guests. The eighth grade students wrote the script for the presentation, and re-enacted all 14 stations with music, scriptures and reflections read between each station.

In addition to the Living Stations, St. John Berchmans students of all ages celebrated Easter through various activities including Easter egg hunts in the preschool and kindergarten classes, and an interactive Last Supper lesson and meal for the first grade students.

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Diaconate Formation

Completes Second Year Written by Mike Whitehead • Photos by Mike Whitehead & Jessica Rinaudo

The Diocese of Shreveport currently has a class of 16 men in formation to become Permanent Deacons in the spring of 2014.

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hris Domingue places his pen on the table so he can hold the notes on his white, lined pad in both hands.

As the recorder for his breakout group, it’s Domingue’s responsibility to demonstrate how ministerial ethics is intrinsically linked to the Cardinal virtues.

Heady stuff, for sure, but it’s just another teachable moment for the 16 candidates in the Diocese of Shreveport’s Diaconate formation. The group just completed its first two years of a fouryear formation. At the end of the formation, the men will be eligible for ordination in the spring of 2014.

“Each class I complete, each paper I write is an answer to God’s call,” said Domingue, who is one of the candidates in the formation and a member of the Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd in Monroe. “I didn’t realize how hungry I am to learn more about my faith, and I definitely look forward to growing in knowledge.

All of this is part of the journey where God is leading me and I am embracing everything with open arms.”

For all 16 men in formation it has been quite a journey.

The candidates meet for class at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church student center in Ruston from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., three weekend days each month, from September through April.

The classes, whose topics range from scripture, spirituality and theology, to ministry, philosophy and church history, are all taught through the University of Dallas.

When you poll each person attending classes, you discover one common thread –– the University of Dallas professors are firstrate. Even though they travel a long distance to teach, they enjoy being with the students because everyone in the room is eager to learn more about their faith, their Church and their ministry.

“I [knew] that the participants would be committed, prayerful and engaged,” said Peter Jones, who has taught multiple classes and is one of many favorite professors. “And these qualities make for great students.”

Father Pat Madden, another respected professor who also has taught multiple classes, said he hopes the students take away the love of learning. “In the classes, I hope to provide them with the tools that will enable them to continue their studies of scripture, theology and pastoral practice that will enable them to be life-long learners. I hope they will take away a ‘hunger for more.’”

Providing these quality professors comes at a cost. The Diocese of Shreveport has made a huge commitment to the formation in dollars –– it costs $50,000 per year to fund the program. To

12 13 Catholic Connection May 2012

Deacon candidates Charles Thomas, David Nagem and Steve Lehr compare notes during their weekend deacon formation classes at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Ruston, LA.

“A new bar has been raised, and the men in formation

have willingly accepted that challenge.”

- Deacon Clary Nash, Formation Director show his commitment to his vocational call, each candidate pays $400 per semester for tuition. They also are responsible for buying their books and other materials for class. A portion of the 2012 Diocesan Service Appeal will also help defray costs for the formation.

“The current formation is many times better than the first program (mine, from 1981-1986) and several times better than the last formation (2000-2005),” said Deacon Clary Nash, Director of

Diaconate Candidates pose together in the St. Thomas Aquinas classroom.

Back Row (L to R): Chris Domingue, Robert Ransom, Marc Vereen, Danny LeMoine, David Nagem, Ricardo Rivera, Charles Thomas, Scott Brandle, Orlando Batongbakal, Bill Kleinpeter, Mike Whitehead.

Front Row (L to R): Steve Lehr, Mike Wise, Bill Goss, Jack Lynch and Tom Deal.

the Permanent Diaconate and the Permanent Deacon Formation years, we have seen our spiritual life, ministry in the church and Program for the diocese. “The difference is academic standards our marriage brought to another level.” of The University of Dallas and the caliber of instructors with Even though the diaconate has been an integral part of the diaconate training experience.”

Church since the Second Vatican Council, the definition of a Deacon Oscar Hannibal, who is Deacon Nash’s partner in deacon can sometimes still be quite elusive. What is a deacon? leading the formation program and the Ruston liaison, likes to What does a deacon do? state it in pastoral terms: “Every one of these men is precious to A deacon is an ordained minister of the church. It is a life of me.” service to God’s people. In fact, if you had to define a deacon in By looking through the lens of 20/20 hindsight, each one word, it would be “service.” There also is a significant social formation should be better than the last. The decision to have justice component to the ministry. Since deacons were first the University of Dallas as the centerpiece of the program led to instituted in the beginning of Christianity, serving the poor is another important outcome –– a higher standard has been set for rooted in the diaconate tradition. being ordained a permanent deacon.

“The purpose of a deacon is to serve, especially the weakest, “A new bar has been raised, and the men in formation have the least known and the least appreciated people,” said Candidate willingly accepted that challenge,” said Deacon Nash.

Bill Kleinpeter, a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in To hold that high standard, candidates are busy when they Mansfield. aren’t in class. They spend their time praying the Liturgy of the Candidate Ricardo Rivera sees his calling in Spanish Hours twice daily, devouring textbooks and writing papers. By ministry, helping at Christ the King Catholic Church. “It always the end of the formation, comes down to where each candidate will have you are needed.” spent close to 1,500 hours As ministers of the in preparation for his word, deacons proclaim ordination. the gospel, preach and Candidates aren’t teach in the name of the alone in their journey Church. As ministers of faith. Their wives also of sacrament, deacons play a pivotal role in the can baptize, witness formation. To be accepted marriages and conduct into the formation, each funeral services. Deacon man must have the Nash often says a deacon support of his wife. Then, spends about 15 percent each year, the candidate’s of his time on the altar spouse must renew and 85 percent of his that commitment. For time working in the all practical purposes, community. A deacon is One day a month, the Candidates' wives join their entering the diaconate not a “mini-priest” or a husbands for the day of formation. is a partnership between “super altar server.” It’s a husband and wife. One Sunday a month, the wives join their distinct ministry in our Church, alongside bishops, priests and husbands for the day. Half the day is spent in studying spirituality the laity. and half the day is spent in pastoral training.

Deacon Nash is already looking forward to the next two years, “During the application process, Deacon Clary told Natalie “It should be even more fruitful.” [my wife] and me how the diaconate was going to change our Mike Whitehead is a freelance writer from Shreveport, a lives,” said Candidate Charles Thomas, a member of Our Lady of Candidate in the current diaconate formation and a member of St. the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Shreveport. “After two Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.

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Trust and Listen | by Kim Long, DRE, St. Mary of the Pines Church

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can not deny that the last two Lents have been difficult for a variety of reasons. I am buoyed today and I didn’t expect that this feeling of renewal would rest in me again.

The past two years I have been like a chicken—hunting and pecking at the liturgical year searching for clues, reminders, reassurances that Julian of Norwich’s statement that “all will be well” will hold true for me also.

Two weeks ago, right before Holy Week, I had emergency surgery, not life threatening, but serious enough to be sent from my doctor’s office straight to the hospital. No time to pack a bag, change my schedule, no time for much of anything except prayer, phone calls and some text messages.

But now Easter has arrived and we have gathered with various groups to celebrate that love is stronger than death. Here is the scene: The sun is shining on my paper, the green leaves of spring providing just enough shade and comfort. I am not in my Easter dress, but rather cut off shorts and a t-shirt. My adult children and assorted family members have scared up an impromptu lacrosse game. Our menu today was no Martha Stewart inspired creation held tightly in the fist of my cooking repertoire. Instead my kids took over, planned a cookout, shopped for the groceries and cooked most of the food.

I am sitting on the deck outside feeling, among other things, the humility surgery or illness brings when we are reminded that we are not physically invincible. I am also feeling joy, contentment and a little nostalgia. I wondered, before becoming ill two weeks ago, what I learned this year during Lent?

It felt like I had skipped school. Today I

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understand the lesson: trust and letting go. It began with the food planning and the realization that this Easter was going to be spent at home recovering instead of in a lily-filled church. I had to let go of the need to be in control of the “picture perfect outcome” of Easters past; where it will end remains to be seen.

The communion of saints played into the lesson also. My parents, who have been dead for several years, were there on the deck through the mediums of genetics and music. The boys made a big effort to bring music to our cookout, and not just any music, but the music I grew up with, the music of my parents, Motown – a strange manifestation of the fact that life goes on and on.

Music is special to me. I remember my parents slow dancing with one another in the living room after they thought we were asleep. Keeping watch from our post next to the refrigerator, my siblings and I thought at that moment they looked magical, holy, complete and peaceful.

Motown is playing now and I hear the lyric, “it’s in his kiss, that’s how you know.” And I think of Judas and Jesus and all that passed between two friends in that moment of knowledge, betrayal and forgiveness. Now the Isley Brothers are belting it out, singing about “this old heart of mine” and I see the sacred heart of Jesus and am once again reassured that there is room in his heart for all.

Easter as a liturgical season lasts for 50 days, but I don’t often think of each Sunday as a little Easter in those terms. I get a little bogged down in the counting of time. This year I pray that as our cantor reminds us that we are in a certain season, I will recall this warm day full of the promise that letting go and letting God brought me and that I will carry that promise forward each day.

Julian of Norwich was spot on, all things ARE well even if they were not particularly conventional this year.

Here endeth the lesson. Bless us O Lord and these your gifts which we are learning to accept.

Red Mass to Celebrate 20th Anniversary

by John Mark Willcox

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or a twentieth year, Red Mass in the Western Deanery will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in downtown Shreveport on Friday, May 4, at 9:00 a.m. This is a votive Mass offered to invoke the Holy Spirit as the source of wisdom, understanding, counsel and fortitude. Red Mass is sponsored annually by the Red Mass Society and Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

The Red Mass is offered throughout the world with the primary purpose of evoking God’s blessing and guidance in the administration of justice. Since the thirteenth century, scarlet vestments have been worn by the celebrants of this Mass which symbolize tongues of fire representing the Holy Spirit. In ancient times the robes of the attending judges were also bright The Annual Western Deanery Red Mass, honoring judges, lawyers, law red, thus providing an additional reason for the name of this enforcement officers and public officials is in its 20th year. event.

Bishop Michael G. Duca will be the principal celebrant and the former Soviet Union which have greatly reduced mortality homilist for this year’s Red Mass. He rates for surgery in the region. He will assist the members of the bar in has also worked with several of The Red Mass’s... primary honoring Samaritan International our diocesan priests, assisting with for their medical ministry and some 40 orphanages located in the purpose is to evoke God’s ongoing efforts to promote social Ukraine. blessing and guidance in the justice throughout the world. Dr. The Annual Red Mass is a public, William Norwood will represent ecumenical worship service and administration of justice.

Samaritan International for the people of all faiths are invited to award having served within the organization for many years. participate in this special blessing for judges, lawyers, law Dr. Norwood helped to pioneer laparoscopic surgery centers in enforcement officers and public officials.

Three Brothers of the Lyke Community to Profess Vows | by Fr. Francis Kamau, FMH

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n Friday, June 1, Brothers Paul Mutisya, Moses Mabele at that time the Rector of Tangaza College in Nairobi, played a and Geoffrey Muga will have their Solemn Profession of major role in the community’s foundation and is considered Vows as Franciscan Missionaries of Hope at Our Lady a co-founder and sponsor of the congregation. Fr. Andre now of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Shreveport at 5:00 p.m. The serves as pastor of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church in following day, Saturday, June 2, Brother Geoffrey Muga will be Shreveport. ordained a transitional deacon by Bishop Michael G. Duca at St. Since their foundation, the religious brothers have called Mary of the Pines Church in Shreveport at 10:00 a.m. themselves “The Lyke Community” in honor of the the late The Lyke Community is a Catholic congregation of priests Archbishop James Patterson Lyke, the Archbishop of Atlanta, and brothers inspired by the Holy Spirit to live together and because he had visited the brothers and encouraged them before observe the Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ following the their foundation. spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi in witnessing to the life of Brother Moses Mabele is a native of Kenya and currently poverty, chastity and obedience while committing to the mission finishing his theological studies at Notre Dame Seminary in New and ministry of hope to God’s people.

Orleans.

The Lyke Community began in Nairobi, Kenya in September Brother Paul Mutisya is a native of Kenya and in his second 1993 by young men year of theology at Notre who had undergone Dame Seminary in New their initial formation Orleans. in the Order of Friars Brother Geoffrey Muga Minor: Fr. Francis is a native of Kenya and Kamau (who currently currently finishing his serves as pastor of Masters of Divinity at St. Mary of the Pines Washington Theological Church in Shreveport), Union in Washington D.C. Fr. John Basiimwa, Fr. Please join these men Nicholas Onyach and on June 1 and 2 as they Fr. Jogues Abenawe. Fr. continue down the paths of Andre McGrath, OFM, Bro. Geoffrey Muga, FMH Bro. Moses Mabele, FMH Bro. Paul Mutisya, FMH their religious vocations.

Annual Report

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Catholics Urged to Resist Unjust Laws, Join in ‘Fortnight for Freedom’

by Nancy Frazier O’Brien, Catholic News Service

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ASHINGTON (CNS) -- American Catholics must resist unjust laws “as a duty of citizenship and an obligation of faith,” a committee of the U.S. bishops said in a new statement on religious liberty.

Titled “Our First, Most Cherished Liberty,” the 12-page statement by the Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty also calls for “a fortnight for freedom” from June 21, the vigil of the feasts of St. John Fisher and St. Thomas More, to July 4, U.S. Independence Day. “This special period of prayer, study, catechesis and public action would emphasize both our Christian and American heritage of liberty,” the committee said. “Dioceses and parishes around the country could choose a date in that period for special events that would constitute a great national campaign of teaching and witness for religious liberty.”

The ad hoc committee opened its statement with several “concrete examples” of recent threats to religious liberty, saying that “this is not a theological or legal dispute without real-world consequences.”

Cited first was the Department of Health and Human Services’ mandate that most health plans must include contraception, sterilization and some abortion-inducing drugs free of charge, even if the employer is morally opposed to such services.

“In an unprecedented way, the federal government will both force religious institutions to facilitate and fund a product contrary to their own moral teaching and purport to define which religious institutions are ‘religious enough’ to merit protection of their religious liberty,” the statement said. “These features of the ‘preventive services’ mandate amount to an unjust law.”

Among other examples of “religious liberty under attack” the bishops named: -- Immigration laws in Alabama and other states that “forbid what the government deems ‘harboring’ of undocumented immigrants -- and what the church deems Christian charity and pastoral care to those immigrants.”

-- An attempt by the Connecticut Legislature in 2009 to restructure Catholic parishes.

-- Discrimination against Christian students on college campuses.

-- A New York City rule that bars small church congregations from renting public schools on weekends for worship services, while allowing such rentals by nonreligious groups.

-- Changes in federal contracts for human trafficking grants that require Catholic agencies “to refer for contraceptive and abortion services in violation of Catholic teaching.”

The statement quotes the Founding Fathers and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to bolster its arguments.

Rev. King, writing from jail in Birmingham, AL, in 1963, described an unjust law as one “that is out of harmony with the moral law,” and said he agreed with St. Augustine that “an unjust law is no law at all.”

“An unjust law cannot be obeyed,” the bishops’ statement said. “In the face of an unjust law, an accommodation is not to be sought, especially by resorting to equivocal words and

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Fireworks light up the sky around the U.S. Capitol and Washington Monument on Independence Day last year. In a new statement released April 12, an ad hoc committee of the U.S. bishops’ outlined examples of threats to religious liberty and urged Catholics to resist unjust laws. It called for “a fortnight for freedom” from June 21 to July 4 for prayer, study and public action emphasizing the Christian and American heritage of liberty. (CNS photo/Reuters)

deceptive practices.”

“If we face today the prospect of unjust laws, then Catholics in America, in solidarity with our fellow citizens, must have the courage not to obey them,” it added. “No American desires this.

No Catholic welcomes it. But if it should fall upon us, we must discharge it as a duty of citizenship and an obligation of faith.”

The bishops also distinguished between conscientious objection and an unjust law.

“Conscientious objection permits some relief to those who object to a just law for reasons of conscience -- conscription being the most well-known example,” the committee said. “An unjust law is ‘no law at all.’ It cannot be obeyed, and therefore one does not seek relief from it, but rather its repeal.”

The statement also raised the issue of religious freedom abroad and said “the age of martyrdom has not passed.”

“Assassinations, bombings of churches, torching of orphanages -- these are only the most violent attacks Christians have suffered because of their faith in Jesus Christ,” the bishops said. “It is our task to strengthen religious liberty at home, ... so that we might defend it more vigorously abroad.”

The statement called on “American foreign policy, as well as the vast international network of Catholic agencies” to make “the promotion of religious liberty an ongoing and urgent priority.”

The bishops assigned special responsibility for advancing religious freedom to several groups: -- Those who hold public office must “protect and defend those fundamental liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights,” regardless of their political party.

-- Leaders of Catholic hospitals, universities and social service agencies “who may be forced to choose between the good works we do by faith, and fidelity to that faith itself ” were encouraged to “hold firm, to stand fast and to insist upon what belongs to you by right as Catholics and Americans.”

-- Priests must offer “a catechesis on religious liberty suited to the souls in your care,” a responsibility that is shared with “writers, producers, artists, publishers, filmmakers and bloggers employing all the means of communications.”

MEET THE DEPARTMENTS: Chancery During the 25th anniversary year of the Diocese of Shreveport we are profiling those who work in each department for the diocese. We hope this helps you get to know the people who work for you.

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he Bishop is the chief pastor and leader of the diocese. He is the teacher of faith, priest of sacred worship and minister of governance for the people of this particular church, the Diocese of Shreveport.

Bishop Michael G. Duca is a native of Dallas, TX. He was ordained a priest on April 29, 1978 for the Diocese of Dallas. He was called to the order of bishop on April 1, 2008, by Pope Benedict XVI, and ordained and installed as the second Bishop of the Diocese of Shreveport on May 19, 2008.

our diocese.

Linda Easter: I am the Administrative Assistant to the Chancery Office, the location for the offices of the Bishop, the Vicar General, the Chancellor and the Director of Mission Effectiveness. I assist the Vicar General, Chancellor and the Director of Mission Effectiveness in their day to day tasks. Resolving questions and providing answers to parishioners throughout the diocese is the most rewarding part of my work.

Christine Rivers: I am the Chancellor.

I began work in the Shreveport office Elaine Gallion: of the Diocese I serve as secretary of Alexandriato Bishop Michael Shreveport in 1982 Duca. I have and was included as three children: a staff member of the Kristi, Michael Shreveport Diocese and Rachel. I am at our establishment a parishioner of in 1986. In 2003 St. Mary of the I was privileged Pines Church. to be appointed as My service in the Chancellor. When an diocese began individual or parish almost 23 years calls the Chancellor’s ago, first in Greco Office with a Institute and the question, we try to Office of Bishop Top left to right: Randy Tiller, Director of Mission Effectiveness; Bishop Michael G. Duca; Fr. Rothell Price, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia. Bottom make sure that the in 1993. I enjoy left to right: Elaine Gallion, Secretary to the Bishop; Christine Rivers, Chancellor; correct information working with Linda Easter, Administrative Assistant to the Chancery Office. is given or a Bishop Duca and resource provided to being of assistance answer their request. Helping an elderly person locate a to our priests and all parishioners of the diocese. sacramental record of baptism to establish date of birth so Fr. Rothell Price: I have been an ordained priest for that retirement or medical benefits can be received is a very 22 years. I wear two hats in our diocesan office. As Vicar gratifying part of the work of the Chancellor.

General, I assist the bishop in his governance of the Randy Tiller: I am the Director of Mission Effectiveness. diocese. I attend to the various administrative, pastoral, I travel throughout the diocese working with the various and procedural tasks the bishop entrusts to my care. As parish councils, the pastors and lay leaders to develop the Moderator of the Curia, I am responsible for overseeing mission, goals and objectives that correlate to the mission of and guiding the day to day work and collaboration of the the diocese and the universal church. My son is a senior at various departments and personnel who constitute our Catholic Center family. My favorite part of my responsibility Louisiana Tech in Mechanical Engineering. I am a lifelong is giving assistance to the bishop and showing appreciation resident of Shreveport and parishioner of St. Joseph Church in Shreveport. I enjoy exploring the concerns and issues of to the Catholic Center staff for their talented gifts and our parishes and rejoice in opportunities and solutions each supportive ministries to our priests and religious men and parish discerns for their particular needs. women, parish leadership teams and the faithful people of

Annual Report

17 16

Hispanic Corner

Misas

por Rosalba Quiroz

Bossier City: Christ the King Church 425 McCormick St. Bossier City Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Domingo 3:00 p.m.

Lunes 7:00 p.m.

Confesiones 45 minutos antes de Misa Marilú Rodriguez Tel: 318-286-1492

Estudio Teológico sobre la Virgen María

M

aría es la mujer asociada íntimamente al Verbo encarnado; es la Madre de Jesucristo, Hijo de Dios hecho hombre, Redentor y Salvador del género humano. La Teología es el estudio científico de la Revelación divina a la luz de la fe; es la ciencia que trata de Dios y su obra de salvación, teniendo como principios las verdades de la Revelación divina, ¿Por qué entonces esta ciencia estudia a María?

María entra de lleno en la Teología y en la obra de salvación por la asociación directa e íntima en su maternidad y su participación radica en el modo como quiso Dios que se llevara a cabo la Redención.

Ella estuvo asociada a su Hijo de tal manera que juntamente con Él quebrantó la cabeza a la serpiente infernal, obteniendo así un señalado triunfo.

En su respuesta al ángel: "He aquí la esclava del Señor; hágase en mí según tu palabra" (Lc. 1,38), María se entrega completa al plan salvífico del Padre. Ella no tomó lo que no le correspondía, sino que aceptó plena, humilde y confiadamente, la voluntad de Dios. De ahí las palabras suyas "según tu palabra". Dios quiere contar con Ella, precisamente, como Madre de su Hijo, el Redentor, y que Ella misma sea Corredentora. Así lo anunció a nuestros primeros Padres -Adán y Eva- (cfr. Gén 3 15) y a los Profetas (cfr. Is. 7,14).

Al aceptar María su divina maternidad y formarse Jesús en su seno, no sólo se está formando el Jesús hecho hombre, Jesús

histórico que vivió en Palestina hace dos mil años, sino también la cabeza de un gran Cuerpo místico; ha comenzado a constituirse un gran organismo que es el "Cristo místico" que será la Iglesia. María, por tanto, interviene de modo activo en la obra de la redención y, por ello, es pieza clave de la historia de la salvación (cfr. Conc. Vat. II, Const. dogm. Lumen gentium, nn.60- 62).

Artículo por Juan Gustavo Ruiz Sección: María en la Doctrina Católica www. encuentra.com. Editado para publicar versión corta.

Te invitamos a venir el 2 de junio a una conferencia Mariana al Centro Católico de las 9 a.m. a las 6 p.m Conocerás más sobre María en la historia de la salvación, Devociones, Advocaciones, y Veneraciones a La Santísima Virgen.

Llamar a la oficina para más información.

Programa de Radio Escucha en vivo todos los domingos de 8:30 – 9:00a.m. el programa católico “Al Que Madruga, Dios lo Ayuda” por la estación 92.1 F.M. o encuentra los programas pasados en nuestra página de internet www. dioshpt.org haciendo clic en español.

Eventos del mes de Mayo del 2012 27 Domingo de Pentecostés (La Venida del Espíritu Santo sobre los Apóstoles). La diócesis y parroquias continúan con sus actividades cotidianas.

Felicitaciones a todas las Mamás

Calendario del Mes de Junio 2 Escuela de Ministerios: Mariología (Devociones y veneración a Nuestra Madre María) 8-9 Retiro Espiritual para servidores de Búsqueda # 3 en Ruston, LA 16 Misa en celebración del cierre del 25 Aniversario de la Diócesis de Shreveport.

18 19 Catholic Connection May 2012

Farmerville: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church 600 E. Water Street Farmerville Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115 Mansfield: St. Joseph Church 305 Jefferson Street Mansfield 2do Domingo 2:00 p.m. y 3er Martes 6:30 p.m.

Juanita Ibarra Tel: 318-872-5390 Minden: St. Paul Church 410 Fincher Road Minden 2do y 4to Viernes 7:00 p.m.

Margarita Bratton Tel: 318-377-9684 Oak Grove: Sacred Heart Church 201 Purvis St Oak Grove Domingo 5:00 p.m.

Feliciano y Rosa Alviso Martinez Tel: 318-428-2137 Ruston: St. Thomas Aquinas Church 810 Carey Ave. Ruston 2do y 4to Domingo 2:30 p.m.

Soledad Broyles Tel: 318-243-1958 Shreveport: St. Mary of the Pines Church 1050 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop Shreveport Domingo 1:00 p.m.

Carmen Bradford Tel: 318-455-2300 West Monroe: St. Paschal Church 711 N 7th Street West Monroe Domingo 2:30 p.m.

Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora del Ministerio Hispano 318-219-7265 Jeanne Brown 318-219-7257

News Briefs

by Catholic News Service

Maronite Patriarch: Pope to Visit Lebanon Sept. 14-16

Resident physicians Brooke Jemelka, Gavin Puthoff and Alexis Simon stand around Carmen Hinze as the proud father, Dan, looks on in her recovery room after she delivered her son at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. (CNS photo/Lisa Johnston, St. Louis Review)

Maronite Patriarch Bechara Peter Rai. (CNS photo/ Gregory A. Shemitz)

Catholic Residents are New Face of Natural Family Planning

S

T. LOUIS (CNS) -- It was a month before she had to decide her specialty in medical school, and Brooke Jemelka found herself at a crossroads. She had been concentrating on pediatrics during her studies at Texas A&M University, but by the end of her third year, she was starting to question what she wanted to do with her life. Then she delivered her first baby, “and my whole life changed,” said Jemelka, a native of Yoakum, TX. As a Catholic, she was involved in pro-life activities, including sidewalk counseling, pro-life rallies and more. It was later that she realized that was preparing the way for a future in obstetrics and gynecology. “I felt like there was no way I could not be doing God’s work,” she said in an interview with the St. Louis Review, newspaper of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Today, Jemelka is one of six -- yes, six -- resident physicians in the OB/GYN Residency Program at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis who plan to specialize in natural family planning, or NFP, in their future practices. As part of their training, the residents currently are caring for uninsured and underinsured women who come to Mercy’s JFK Clinic. Each of them has a different story of how they became involved in medicine, but all of them agree that God put them in the place where they’re at now for a reason. While doctors in St. Louis and around the nation who specialize in natural methods of fertility care are still considered the minority, all of these residents have encountered many women who want to know the truth about their fertility through the use of NFP.

B

EIRUT (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI will visit Lebanon Sept. 1416, Maronite Catholic Patriarch Bechara Rai announced during Easter Mass at the patriarchal seat in Bkerke, Lebanon.

Patriarch Rai said April 8 that the pope will meet with the country’s religious and civil officials, including President Michel Sleiman, a Maronite Catholic. During an open-air Mass in Beirut Sept. 16, the pope will present the apostolic exhortation on the October 2010 special Synod of Bishops, which met under the theme: “Communion and Witness.” In a statement, Sleiman said the pope’s visit would affirm the depth of the “historical relations that tie Lebanon with the (Vatican) and will form an occasion to focus on Lebanon’s position, message and role as a witness of freedom and Varied Paths Bring Thousands into Catholic Church at coexistence.” It marks the pope’s second visit to the Middle East; in May 2009 he visited Easter Vigil Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian territories.

ASHINGTON (CNS) -- Each of the thousands of new Catholics who The announcement comes amid increased joined the U.S. church at Easter has a special reason to celebrate. But for concern over the plight of Christians across some, the journey has been especially poignant. As children in Albania while the country was under communist rule, Lule Prebibaj and her husband, Ndoke, the Middle East, emigrating in increasing numbers. Of Lebanon’s population of nearly recall being baptized under cloak of darkness and taught to hide their families’ 4 million, approximately 33 percent are religious practices from the authorities. “We both remember every day after a holy Christian, considered a high estimate. Half day the teachers asking us what we had for dinner or if our parents lit a candle or a century ago, Christians represented about said a prayer,” said Lule. “We were told by our parents that we should always say ‘no.’ half the population. In Iraq, a Christian It wasn’t until later on that we understood why they were asking us those questions.” exodus since the American-led invasion Now the parents of four children raised in the Catholic faith and living in the United States since 1999, the Prebibajs are two of the 1,470 candidates and catechumens from in 2003 has reduced the Iraqi Christian the Archdiocese of New York received into the church at the Easter Vigil April 7. “It’s population by two-thirds. In an interview a wonderful feeling to openly say who we are, and it’s absolutely wonderful to be able with Vatican Radio broadcast April 9, Archbisop Paul Sayah, vicar general of the to receive these sacraments,” Lule added. “Better late than never, right?” The Easter Maronite Patriarchate, said the pope’s visit Vigil marked the culmination of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, a process would “inject a new dynamism,” not only in of conversion and study in the Catholic faith for catechumens, who have never been baptized, and candidates, who were baptized in another Christian denomination and the Lebanese society and Christians, but in the whole region. want to come into full communion with the Catholic Church.

W

19 18

Around the Diocese

^

Catholic Youth Organization of St. Thomas Aquinas Church went to the SOLD OUT Winter Jam ‘12 Christian concert at the CenturyLink Arena in Bossier City. We had the opportunity to meet the bands outside, and praise the LORD under the stars and witness his glory in His creation, including two shooting stars!

^

The Knights of St. Peter Claver honored Frank Moran, Jr., Sunday, February 5 at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. Moran was presented with a certificate and pin honoring 50 years of membership in the organization. Pictured left to right: Fr. Andre McGrath, OFM, Frank Moran, Jr. and Tim Ford, Grand Knight.

<

The St. Jude Church’s Basket Ministry would like to take this time to thank all the volunteers for helping with their time and support in delivering our first Easter Baskets. The Easter Baskets were a huge success and we were able to touch 89 families in the Bossier area. We want to thank all our parishioners for the donations of Easter candy and hams. Because of our parishioners’ kindness, tenderness and true understanding of Christian charity, we filled each of these baskets with a massive ham, dinner rolls, fresh fruit, canned goods and special Easter treats giving these families a wonderful gift and memory that they will not forget. We brought joy to both the old and young in all of those 89 homes.

^

On February 19, Bishop Duca presented religious emblems to more than 20 Catholic Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Venture Crew. The Scout Law states that “a scout is reverent.”

The Catholic Church has developed a religious emblem program to encourage members to grow stronger in their faith.

20 21 Catholic Connection May 2012

^

On Good Friday Christians of all denominations gathered in downtown Shreveport for the annual Way to Proclaim Justice. The event was a prayerful and reflective devotion of Christ’s passion that proclaims a spirit of justice to be witnessed by all His followers.

^

Annabelle Moore, a seventh grader at St. John Berchmans Catholic School, received first place in the Knights of Columbus Essay Contest. Her essay, “What it means to be an American,” placed first at the diocesan level and will be submitted for competition at the state level. Pictured left to right: Knight Tom Manuel, Annabelle Moore and Knight Harold Procell.

^

The Catholic Womens League Luncheon, held March 13, was hosted by Christ the King Church and Barksdale Air Force Base Holy Family Church. The ladies were entertained by Fr. Rigoberto Betancurt playing the accordian as they enjoyed their lunch.

^

Msgr. Earl V. Provenza was recently awarded the Employer Support of the Guard Reserve Patriot Award. The Award was created by the U.S. Department of Defense to publicly recognize individuals and businesses who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees who have answered their nation’s call to serve. Pictured: Jim Hill presents Patriot Award to Msgr. Earl Provenza with Sergeant Merrit.

^

Little Flower of Jesus Catholic Church in Monroe had a Lenten revival March 20-22.

Fr. Norman Fischer from Lexington, KY, was the revivalist and children performed a skit on youth night.

^

On Palm Sunday the children of Sacred Heart Church in Oak Grove enjoyed an Easter Egg Hunt. They hunted for eggs in the field across the street from the church. After the Easter egg hunt prizes were given to the children. A fun time was had by all.

Special thanks goes to Tracy Raymond who helped organize the Easter Egg Hunt. Pictured: Fr. Mark Watson helps supervise the Egg Hunt.

^

St. Benedict Church is training two Altar Servers, Javier Morelos and Kristen Lewis. Javier is so short that Fr. Pat has to put the Missal on his head so it will be high enough for him to read. Zenia Norman is training them. She is a Grambling State University student and she will graduate in May. 21 20

Upcoming Events MAY 3: LIFE HAPPENS GRIEF GROUP The next Life Happens Grief Group session is May 3 at St. Jude Church in Bossier City. The group meets every Thursday, 6:30 p.m. in the library.

MAY 4: 20TH ANNUAL RED MASS The 20th annual western deanery Red Mass, honoring Samaritan International, will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on Friday, May 4 at 9:00 a.m.

Bishop Michael Duca will be the homilist and all members of the public are invited to attend.

MAY 6: THE CARLOW CHOIR TO PERFORM AT ST. JUDE CHURCH The Carlow Choir, under the direction of John De Chiaro, will present a concert of sacred music at St. Jude Church in Bossier City. The concert will be at 2:30 p.m. in the church sanctuary.

The Carlow Choir has performed in the U.S., Ireland and Italy with a special performance for Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican in Rome. For further information contact the church at 318746-2508.

MAY 6: LATIN MASS AT THE CATHEDRAL The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans will offer a Latin Mass on the first Sunday of May, June and

July in St. Michael’s Chapel. The Masses will begin at 9:00 a.m. on May 6, June 3 and July 1. For more information, please contact the church office at 318-2215296.

MAY 18 - MAY 26: NOVENA TO THE HOLY SPIRIT AT SACRED HEART CHURCH IN SHREVEPORT Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Shreveport is having a “Novena to the Holy Spirit” Friday, May 18 through Saturday, May 26, beginning each night at 6:30 p.m. We will have a choir of members from any of our parishes who would like to join with us to sing during the Novena. For information on the Novena and choir practice, please call Liz Clark at 318-635-1729 or email clark699@bellsouth.net.

MAY 24: MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR THE COMMUNITY The Third Annual Memorial Service for the community sponsored by Life Happens Along the Journey Grief Group and St. Jude Catholic Church will be May 24 at 6:00 p.m., followed by a potluck dinner. Please RSVP names of attendees, name(s) of deceased and potluck to: lauriebelle55@bellsouth.net, or call 318549-1082 for Laurie or 318-746-2508 for Mike at St. Jude Church.

JUNE 4 - JULY 20: SUMMER

CAMPS AT THE CATHEDRAL OF ST. JOHN BERCHMANS The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans will host a variety of summer camps for children ages 4 - 13. The camps are: Sports Camp, Technology Camp, Drama Camp, Art Camp and Vatican Express Kidz Camp.

Additionally, there will be a Discipleship Retreat for high school youth. Fees differ for each camp. For more information and registration forms for the Summer Camps, contact Megan Funk in the church office at 318-221-5296.

JUNE 25: PILGRIMAGE TO SHRINE OF MOST BLESSED SACRAMENT IN ALABAMA Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church is making a pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, AL, and to Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) in Irondale, AL. The two are united with one purpose of adoring our Lord Jesus Christ in the Most Blessed Sacrament and teaching the faith, in order to draw each pilgrim closer to Jesus. The Shrine has an emphasis on Eucharistic Spirituality. Catechesis is the primary focus at EWTN. We will leave on Monday, June 25 and return on Wednesday, June 27. If you are interested in making the pilgrimage and would like more details please contact Jeannette Petty at 318-752-5971 or via email at churchoffice@mqop.com.

2 0 1 2 D i o ce s a n s t e w a rd s h i p Appe a l

I / We would like to contribute to the Diocesan Stewardship Appeal with a yearly pledge of: $10,000 $7,500 $5,000 $3,500

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

Please send monthly reminders to:

$800 $750 $650 $500

$400 $350 $300 $250

At this time I / we are enclosing:

$200 $150 $100 $_______

$_____________

Print Name_ _______________________________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________________________

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

City______________________________________________________State_________Zip Code____________ My / Our Church Parish _______________________________________________________ Signature ___________________________________________________________________ You may make a credit card payment online at: www.dioshpt.org (Click on Stewardship)

22 23 Catholic Connection May 2012

MAY 2012 SUNDAY

29

World Day of Prayer for Vocations 2nd Collection: Home Missions Confirmation, St. Clement, 9am Confirmation, Christ the King, 3pm

MONDAY

6

13 Mother’s Day

TUESDAY

30

St. Joseph the Worker

7

Confirmation, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, 11am

Lawyers, judges and court officials line up outside Holy Trinity Catholic Church in downtown Shreveport for Red Mass in 2011.

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

1

8

2

Confirmation, St. Joseph Church, Zwolle, 6pm Protecting God’s Children, Little Flower of Jesus Academy, Monroe, 6pm

9 Protecting God’s Children, Catholic Center, Shreveport, 6pm

14

St. Frederick St. Isidore, the High School worker Baccalaureate Mass & Graduation, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe, 5pm

15

16

20 21

2nd Collection: Diocese of Shreveport Retired Priests Fund Confirmation, St. Ann Church, Stonewall, 9am St. Matthias, apostle

27 Pentecost Sunday

Presbyteral Council Meeting, Catholic Center, 1pm

3

28

Western Deanery Red Mass, Holy Trinity Church, 9am

Sts. Philip & James, apostles

10 Deadline for May Catholic Connection

St. Damien Joseph de Veuster of Moloka'i, priest

22

23

18

SATURDAY

5

Confirmation, St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Ruston, 5pm Tribunal Advocate Training, Catholic Center, Shreveport, 9am

12 Sts. Nereus and Achilleus, martyrs; St. Pancras, martyr

19

2nd Collection: Diocese of Shreveport Retired Priests Fund St. John I, pope and Lectors Retreat, Catholic Center, martyr 9am Loyola College Prep Graduation, RiverView Hall, Shreveport, 7pm

24

St. Rita of Cascia, religious

11

Migrant Workers Mass, Delhi; bus leaves Jesus the Good Shepherd Church at 5pm

17

25

Last Day of Catholic Schools

26

St. Philip Neri, priest

St. Bede the Venerable, priest & doctor of the Church; St Gregory VII, pope; St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi, virgin

St. Christopher Magallanes, priest and companions, martyrs

Memorial Day

4

Protecting God’s Children, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Monroe, 6pm

Loyola College Prep Baccalaureate Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport, 6pm The Ascension of the Lord

St. Matthias, apostle

FRIDAY

29

30

31

The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

St. Justin, martyr

1

2 Sts. Marcellinus and Peter, martyrs

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DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

•

Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Mission Possible PLAY HARD.

June 1 - 3, 2012 PRAY

Catholic Boys Adventure Weekend HARD.

T

his dynamic summer weekend is for rising 9th graders to graduating seniors who want to play hard and pray hard! Awesome outdoor activities combined with a strong Catholic spirituality make for a healthy and holy experience.

• Mass & prayer • Ropes course • Zip line • 10,000 sq ft maze • Popular speaker and teen favorite Fr. Joe Hirsch Only $25. Details and registration: www.shreveportvocations.com

24 Catholic Connection May 2012

Held at the Outdoor Wilderness Learning Center (Near Ruston)