August Catholic Connection

VOL. 20, NO. 1

Catholic Schools & Technology p.11

AUGUST 2010

INSIDE Diocese Announces Plans for 25th Anniversary Celebration p.9 Mass for Farm Workers: a Beloved Tradition, p.6

From the Editor

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor Publisher Bishop Michael G. Duca Editor Jessica Rinaudo Regular Contributors Bishop Michael Duca Fr. David Richter Kim Long Jessica Rinaudo Missy McKenzie Christine Rivers Lucy Medvec Sr. Martinette Rivers Rosalba Quiroz Katie Sciba Dianne Rachal John Mark Willcox Featured Contributors Sr. Patricia Cairns Sr. Carol Shively Gretchen R. Crowe Roxie Tabor Dr. Marie Hilliard Sr. Marilyn Vassallo Rebecca Jackson Fr. Mark Watson Julia Norton Editorial Board Cathy Cobb Rev. Charles Glorioso Kim Long Kelly Phelan

Dianne Rachal Christine Rivers Christie Weeks John Mark Willcox

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

Our Diocese is recognized by the Board of Immigration Appeals as a Non-Profit Organization capable of giving Immigration Legal Advice. We offer Immigration Professional Services to Low-Income Families. To find out if you or someone you know qualifies for an Immigration benefit, please contact Mrs. Rosalba Quiroz at 1-800-256-1542, ext. 265 or 318-219-7265 or email rquiroz@dioshpt.org

D

uring the Catholic Connection’s summer break, a lot of things have been happening!

We are getting ready to publish the 2011 Diocesan Directory.

Thanks to everyone who got their corrections back so efficiently. If you are interested in obtaining a copy, please email me at

jrinaudo@dioshpt.org, or notify your church secretary. We hope directories will be available to parishes by late September.

Second, the Catholic Connection now has its very own website!

Check out the latest local and national news and photos at www.thecatholicconnection.org.

You can also find PDF archives of the Catholic Connection there, as well as flip through a virtual copy of the current issue.

Catholic Extension Establishes Fund to Support Work of Women Religious

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ather Jack Wall, President of Catholic Extension, has announced the creation of the Sister Marguerite Bartz Fund to support the work of women religious in the poorest and most isolated dioceses of the U.S. The fund is named in honor of a Sister of the Blessed Sacrament whose life of service was cut short in November 2009 when she was killed during a robbery in her home.

Sister Marguerite dedicated her life to serving the poor as a spiritual leader, educator, mentor, activist and community builder for more than 40 years. She was working on the Navajo Reservation when she was killed. Sister Marguerite epitomized the critical role that women religious play in nurturing vibrant faith lives and serving the needs of people in the most forgotten corners of our country.

“Sr. Marguerite’s life is an invitation to all of us to support the work of selfless women religious dedicated to doing God’s work in the world,” said Father Wall. “This fund is for the women who are following in their footsteps.”

Contributions to the Sister Marguerite Bartz Fund will help women religious provide services and establish programs in America’s mission dioceses. In 2010, Catholic Extension is providing $1,664,289 to support the work of sisters in

33 dioceses across the country, including the Diocese of Shreveport.

During 2010-2011, a $20,000 grant from Catholic Extension will give a salary subsidy to support the presence of Sisters Bernadette Barrett, Phyllis Fuselier and Constance Hummel as they work to spread God’s word and Christ’s presence in the Lake Providence area of northeast Louisiana, one of the poorest sections of the U.S. Since 2002, Catholic Extension has sent over $100,000 to this ministry.

To contribute to the Sister Marguerite Bartz Fund, please contact the Development Office of Catholic Extension at catholicextension.org or 800-842-7804.

HOW CATHOLIC EXTENSION HELPS OUR DIOCESE Total Funds Since 1987 = $3,161,650 • Subsidies for priests & religious • Seminarian education • Campus ministries • Clergy education • Communication/evangelization • Hispanic ministry • Mass stipends • Parish leadership training • Religious education • Slattery Library • Youth ministry • Church construction & repair

On the Cover: St. Joseph School Students use new technology as part of their classroom curriculum. L to R: Danny Medvec, Haley Barrios, Valentina Mitchell, Ainsley Tompkins and Vincent Del Mundo. (Photo by Jessica Rinaudo)

August 2010

Contents

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From the Editor by Jessica Rinaudo............................................ 2 Catholic Extension Establishes Fund to Support Work of Women Religious................................................... 2 Bishop Michael Duca’s August 2010 Schedule........................... 3 Bishop’s Reflection by Most Reverend Michael G. Duca............ 4-5 Decorum at Mass, pt. 1 by Dianne Rachal.................................. 6 Our Journey with Christ by Fr. Mark Watson.............................. 6 Second Collections by Fr. David Richter..................................... 7 Saints for Students and Teachers by Kim Long........................... 7 As Matters Stand by Sr. Patricia Cairns . .................................... 8 Sister Martinette Embarks on Next Great Adventure

by Sr. Martinette Rivers........................................................8 Diocese Celebrates 24 Years, Announces Plans for 25th Anniversary Celebration by Jessica Rinaudo............. ..9 Steubenville South by Julia Norton.............................................9 Retreat Day for Catechetical Teachers and Youth Ministers

by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo...........................................................10

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Dallas School of Ministry Announces Deacon Formation Program in Shreveport by Rebecca Jackson...........................11 Schools and Technology

by Sr. Carol Shively and Catholic School Faculty & Staff... .11-14 Smartphone Applications Integrate Prayer Life with Daily Technology by Gretchen R. Crowe.......................................... 15 Farewell Fr. Richard K. Pusch by Christine Rivers........................ 15 Caring for Each Other, Even Unto Death

by Dr. Marie Hilliard................................................................. 16 News Briefs by Catholic News Service........................................ 17 Hispanic Corner / Nuestra Página por Rosalba Quiroz............... 18 The Archbishop, The Myth, The Legend

by John Mark Willcox ......................................................... 19 Around the Diocese............................................................ ....20-21 Prolife News by Roxie Tabor........................................................21 Upcoming Events ........................................................................22 August 2010 Calendar.................................................................23 Diocese of Shreveport's 24th Anniversary Mass Photos............... 24

Bishop Michael Duca’s August Schedule Aug. 14 Retreat Day for Catechists & Youth Ministers, Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe; 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Aug. 17 Western Deanery Priests Meeting, Catholic Center; 10:30 a.m.

Aug. 17 Diocesan Directors of Hispanic Ministry Luncheon, Catholic Center.

Aug. 3-5 Knights of Columbus Supreme Convention, Washington, D.C. Aug. 6 Diocese of Alexandria’s 100th Anniversary Mass, St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria; 6:00 p.m.

Aug. 13 Barksdale CYO Annual Luau/Pool Party, Barksdale Air Force Base; 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Aug. 18 Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Catholic School & Loyola College Prep’s Beginning of School Year Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans; 8:15 a.m.

Aug. 21 Retreat Day for Catechists & Youth Ministers, Catholic Center; 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Aug. 21 Tentative: Dedication of St. Pius X Church, Shreveport; 4:00 p.m.

Aug. 21 Back to School Night at the Shreveport-Bossier Captains Game, Fairgrounds Field; 7:05 p.m.

Aug. 22 Mass honoring Sr. Mary Ann Gaudin, SFCC’s 70th Anniversary of Religious Vows, St. Jude Church, Bossier City; 11:00 a.m.

Aug. 23 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program, Catholic Center; 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Aug. 27 Blue Mass, St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 9:30 a.m.

Aug. 30 - Sept. 1 Prayer & Support Group for Bishops, Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House, Dallas.

La Reflexión del Obispo por Bishop Michael G. Duca

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l mes de agosto nos hace pensar en el regreso a clases. Aunque yo no pensaba así cuando era niño e iba a la escuela, ahora estoy infinitamente agradecido con mis maestros y con el apoyo de mis padres que me permitieron obtener una buena educación. La educación es uno de los ministerios esenciales de la iglesia. Una parte importante de esta educación es dejar nuestra Fe a nuestros hijos. Los padres tienen la primera responsabilidad y derecho de educar a sus hijos en la Fe. Esto se hace más efectivamente con el ejemplo y enseñándoles las oraciones, las tradiciones y las historias; contestando sus preguntas acerca de Dios. La familia es donde aprendemos nuestras lecciones más duraderas de la fe y donde recibimos nuestra más profunda y primordial formación de fe.

De hecho, si la fe no se vive en la casa por medio de la palabra y el ejemplo, así reciban muchas lecciones fuera de la casa no serán igual de efectivas.

Pero cuando la fe se vive en la casa, la ayuda recibida que dan escuelas Católicas y programas de educación

4 5 Catholic Connection August 2010

religiosa parroquiales ayudan tanto a padres como a hijos a entender mejor su fe.

Yo soy graduado de escuelas Católicas y soy testigo de la habilidad que tienen de formar y educar a nuestros hijos. Deberíamos mantener siempre en nuestra mente que el propósito de escuelas Católicas no es solamente proveer una buena educación. Las escuelas Católicas deben ser escuelas que provean una formación de fe Católica sólida junto con una buena educación, fundada en valores Católicos y una identidad Católica esencial.

Agosto traerá el comienzo de clases de educación religiosa parroquiales para nuestros hijos. Parte es hacia preparaciones sacramentales de Reconciliación y Primera Comunión.

Nuestros estudiantes mayores se prepararán para la Confirmación y yo con ansias espero estar con ustedes celebrando este Sacramento del Espíritu Santo en nuestras parroquias.

Necesitamos comprometernos a un nivel alto de educación y de buena calidad en nuestros programas de Educación Religiosa en las parroquias y las Escuelas Católicas porque es lo justo y porque debemos a nuestros hijos el mejor esfuerzo.

No cabe duda que podemos mejorar en la educación de la fe y la formación de nuestros jóvenes.

Estoy comenzando a considerar como podremos afrontar los desafíos en nuestros programas de educación religiosa, en nuestras parroquias y en nuestras Escuelas Católicas.

Primero, con referencia a nuestros Jóvenes estamos buscando un nuevo director para el ministerio de Jóvenes y Jóvenes Adultos de la diócesis. Me imagino que los cambios incluirán una cooperación cercana entre los ministerios de jóvenes y el programa de educación religiosa especialmente con nuestros jóvenes y jóvenes adultos.

Segundo, con referencia a la educación religiosa, tendré dos reuniones en Agosto (una en Shreveport y una en Monroe) con las personas que enseñan educación religiosa en nuestras parroquias para que describan los desafíos, éxitos, frustraciones y esperanzas que han experimentado en este ministerio.

Este será uno de los primeros pasos para desarrollar una visión para el futuro y un estudio de que persona que se necesita para una Oficina de Educación Religiosa y Formación de Fe. La educación en nuestra fe es uno de los trabajos más importantes que hacemos como Iglesia. Es en efecto un aspecto del primer mandamiento de Jesús de ir a anunciar la Buena Nueva. Ya sea que cumplamos esto en casa, en la Escuela Católica o en el programa de Educación Religiosa, que sea siempre nuestro mejor trabajo.

Bishop’s Reflection by Bishop Michael G. Duca

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he month of August brings to mind the beginning of school.

Although I didn’t feel this as a child while I was in school, I cannot now express how thankful I am for the teachers and the support of my parents that allowed me to get a good education.

Education is one of the essential ministries of the Church. One important part of this education is handing on our Faith to our children.

Parents have the first responsibility and right to educate their children in the Faith. They do this most effectively by their example and by teaching their children prayers, traditions, stories and by answering their questions about God. The family is where we learn our most enduring lessons of faith and where we receive

But when the faith is lived at home, the help provided

by Catholic education through our Catholic schools and religious education programs in the parish offers an even deeper

understanding of the faith and a help to parents.

our most profound first formation in the Faith. In fact if the faith is not lived at home by word and example, no amount of lessons outside the home will be as effective. But when the faith is lived at home, the help provided by Catholic education through our Catholic schools and religious education programs in

Bishop Michael Duca speaks with Catholic school students at All Schools Mass.

the parish offers an even deeper understanding of the faith and a help to parents.

I am an alumnus of Catholic schools and I am a witness to their ability to form and educate our children. We should always keep in our minds that the purpose of our Catholic schools is not just to provide a good education. Catholic schools must be schools that provide a solid Catholic faith formation along side of a good education founded on Catholic values. This Catholic identity of our schools is an essential quality that we must maintain.

August will also bring the beginning of our religious education classes for our children in the parish. Part of this will be preparations for the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion.

Our older students will prepare for Confirmation, and I look forward to being with you to celebrate this Sacrament of the Holy Spirit in your parishes. We need to commit ourselves to a high level of quality in our Religious Education programs, both in the parishes and our Catholic schools. In justice we owe our children our best effort.

There is no doubt we can all do better in the faith education and formation of our youth. I am beginning to actively consider how

we can address the challenges in our religious education programs, both in our parishes and our Catholic Schools.

First, in regards to our Youth, we are currently seeking a new director for Youth and Young Adult Ministry in the diocese. I imagine any changes will include a close cooperation between our youth ministers and the religious education program, especially with our teens and young adults.

Second, in regard to religious education, I will hold two listening sessions in August (one in Shreveport and one in Monroe) with those actively teaching religious education in our parishes so they can describe the challenges, successes, frustrations and hopes they have experienced in this ministry. This will be one of the first steps in developing a vision for the future and a description of the person needed for an Office of Religious Education and Faith Formation.

Education in our faith is one of the most important works we do as the Church. It is in fact an aspect of the primary command of Jesus to go out and preach the Good News. Whether we accomplish this in the home, at a Catholic school or in a Religious Education program, let it always be our best work.

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Decorum at Mass, pt.1 Our Journey with Christ

by Dianne Rachal, Director of Worship

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by Fr. Mark Watson

scribe to the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in holy array.” Psalm 29:2 Fr. Mark Watson offers Communion to a Migrant Farm Worker in Delhi. (Jo Ann Crone) This is the first in a series of articles on “ hen the time for his being liturgy with the group. proper decorum at Mass and addresses taken up was approaching, After a second visit, on May 25, a appropriate dress at Mass. he deliberately set himself to group from Good Shepherd parish Catechism of the Catholic Church travel to Jerusalem (Luke 9:51).”

This caravanned to the building on June 1387: Bodily demeanor (gestures, verse marks the turning point in the 2.

Mass was celebrated on a picnic clothing) ought to convey the respect, Gospel of Luke.

From this point Jesus table outside of the school building. As solemnity and joy of this moment when begins his journey to Jerusalem.

As night fell, the Eucharistic Prayer was Christ becomes our guest.

Jesus journeys to his suffering, death, prayed by flashlight.

Before the visit, A dress code is enforced for entry resurrection and ascension, a restored Jo Ann Crone headed up an effort to into St. Peter’s Basilica and is based people gathers around him.

Our spiritual gather clothes for the workers, and upon what is considered “modest” and lives can be characterized as a journey Betty Cummings made individual bags “appropriate” dress for visiting a Catholic following behind the risen Christ, just as for storing the clothes.

After Mass the church, and tourists and visitors are the disciples journeyed behind Jesus. group from Monroe distributed clothes. reminded that, although St. Peter’s is an Over the last six years one of the From these encounters a ministry has architectural and artistic monument, it is most enjoyable aspects of my spiritual developed which has continued for the first a place of worship and prayer. The journey has been ministry to migrant last six years.

Parishioners from Monroe dress code forbids: farm workers.

In this journey I have share their faith with migrant farm • hats for lay men inside the basilica both discovered the risen Christ and led workers who have come to our area to • shorts others to Christ. plant and harvest sweet potatoes. Over • skirts above the knees This journey began on the evening of the years we have celebrated Mass with • sleeveless shirts May 7, 2005.

After celebrating Mass in groups of workers in Pioneer, Tallulah • shirts exposing the navel Spanish in Oak Grove, Evelyn Ridings, and Delhi.

• low cut shirts a parishioner of Sacred Heart, indicated For the past two years Bishop Duca • shirts which contain profanity that there was a group she very much has celebrated the initial Mass of the • excessive jewelry wanted me to meet.

Not knowing what year.

Lev Dawson has generously hosted While this dress code is for St. Peter’s, to expect, I climbed in her car and we the Masses on his property. This year notice it is relevant to any Catholic drove south on Highway 17.

She stopped not only did Bishop Duca celebrate the church. As we would dress appropriately the car outside of an abandoned school Mass, but a choir made up of Mexican for a wedding or funeral, even more so building in the small town of Pioneer.

In Americans from Ruston and Minden we should be dressed appropriately for front of the main school building there provided music.

Fr. Rigo Betancurt the most important event on earth: the were a group of migrant farm workers preached and Rosalba Quiroz spoke to Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The Mass is who were resting after a long week in the group about the services offered by infinitely more important than meeting the fields.

I got out of the car and slowly the Office of Hispanic Ministries. an earthly king or queen or going to an walked to the workers. I introduced This ministry has been a wonderful important formal event. By dressing myself to the men and women in way for us to encounter the risen Christ up for Mass we are showing respect Spanish and asked if there was anything through the faith and joy of the Mexican for Jesus Christ present in the Holy I could bring them to make their lives people, and through these experiences Eucharist, and treating our bodies as more comfortable.

They indicated that to be led closer to Christ. May we all temples of the Holy Ghost. they needed clothing. continue to find Christ in those whom May our dress reflect who we are, the The next Monday I drove back to we serve and continue to find ways to Body of Christ, and who we encounter, the building with Fr. Siby.

We delivered lead others closer to Christ through our the risen Christ, at every celebration of clothes to the workers and scheduled a compassion and faith. the Mass. “

6 7 Catholic Connection August 2010

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Second Collections

by Fr. David Richter, Vicar General Announcement: Aug. 8 & 15 • Collection: Aug. 21 & 22

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ecause we cannot collect for all of the worthy causes for which our diocese receives requests by way of the U.S. Bishops, we set aside the month of August for our parishes to make one choice among three possible collections: 1. The Diocese of Shreveport Hispanic Ministry enables our local church to reach out to the growing number of Hispanics living and working in north Louisiana.

Many are unchurched, and the assistance Catholics can offer them can help maintain the Church’s presence in their lives.

2. Aid for the Church in Latin America and in Central and Eastern Europe are a combined collection.

The U.S. Bishops began the Latin American collection in 1965; it gives special priority to pastoral projects that assist the church there to effectively plan its future. The Central and Eastern Europe collection has begun to help the Church there rebuild itself after 45 years of Communist oppression.

3. The Catholic University of America annual collection “provides Catholic Education with a focus on service,” former president, and now Bishop, David O’Connell says.

“That means building on our already strong foundation:

the Catholic educational tradition, which calls for vigorous scholarship guided by spiritual and ethical values.”

How well did the diocese do?

Church Vocations Priest Retirement Fund Home Missions Haiti Relief Collection

$ 42,117.51 $ 58,733.92 $ 23,511.62 $ 113,553.10

Saints for Students and Teachers

It wasn’t all smooth sailing. Thomas’ classmates thought he was less than college material and called him a “dumb Kim Long, DRE, St. Mary of the Pines ox.” One of his teachers believed in him though, and thought he would become a great teacher of the faith. This teacher s difficult as it seems, I love turned out to be St. Albert the Great. the enthusiasm this season Thomas studied the philosophy of brings. The anticipation of new Aristotle and reworked it to apply to clothes, new books, new teachers, Christianity. His greatest and most and the smell of a brand new box of well known work is a collection of his crayons. The silent promises of many writings called the Summa Theologica. parents who secretly vow to be more So when your student is having a bit of cheerful and provide a more pleasant trouble in class, you know who to talk atmosphere for the start of the day. The Saint Catherine of Alexandria. to, Thomas Aquinas. steely resolve each teacher makes as Teachers can claim St. Gregory the they ready their classroom, that this powerful intercessor. I don’t have any Great (Sept. 3). After serving as monk year will be the best ever! daughters, but being a mother who has and abbot, he was elected pope at age What a comfort to know that along survived the teenage years of four sons, 50.

He was firm and direct, dismissing with all our excitement, resolve, and I have called on Catherine quite a bit those whom he determined unworthy. tightened schedules there are saints for over the years. students, teachers and parents!

St. Thomas Aquinas (Jan. 28) What He forbade the taking of money for many pastoral services, he emptied St. Catherine of Alexandria (Nov. a man! He was born in Roccasecca in the papal treasury to ransom prisoners 25). When she was in her teens, she Sicily in 1225. He was kidnapped and of war, cared for persecuted Jews, as attempted to persuade her father not imprisoned by his father, who didn’t well as victims of plague and famine. to persecute Christians. She argued want his son to join the Dominicans, In his own preaching style he applied very effectively and converted several a new religious order; he preferred the gospels to daily life. While content people with her arguments. She is Thomas join the Benedictine order, to be a monk, he willingly served God known as a patron saint for students which was well established and had a because she stated her case for the good chance for advancement. Despite through the Church wherever he was called, sacrificing his own preferences Christians so effectively. Unfortunately this family upset, Thomas won out for those of the greater good. Sounds she didn’t persuade her father. She was and eventually became a Dominican like lots of teachers I know! martyred and is considered to be a very and studied at the University in Paris.

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As Matters Stand

by Sister Patricia Cairns, CSJ

Sister Martinette Embarks On Next Great Adventure

by Sr. Martinette Rivers, ols

(CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz)

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problem that faces many of the poor is where to turn when need arises. In the past, individuals and families could count on neighbors to rally in a time of need. This is often not the case today.

Peoples’ hectic schedules, population mobility, increasing numbers of poor, and decline in the Judeo-Christian ethic of helping one’s neighbor in need are a few of the factors that contribute to the situation.

One hundred years ago, Catholic Charities was established. The founders saw the writing on the wall, and realized neighbor-to-neighbor assistance was becoming difficult to provide and hard to predict. The Church felt the need to formalize its charitable efforts through the establishment of Catholic Charities.

Christ’s call to assist those in need could not be left to chance.

A role Catholic Charities plays in all of the cities where it functions is to provide information and referral to those in need. When a service is not offered through Catholic Charities or Catholic Charities’ resources are spent, the organization provides information about available services in the community and passes the information on to those seeking help. This is a service that Catholic Charities of Shreveport will offer.

In summary, the initial programs to be provided through the new Catholic Charities include: a Catholic Immigration Center, Parish Social Ministry, Disaster Response, Tangible Assistance, and Information and Referral.

By God’s grace and the generosity of others, Catholic Charities of Shreveport will be a source of great hope and help for many.

8 9 Catholic Connection August 2010

Sister Martinette Rivers has been ministering in and out of the diocese over the last 60 years. She is a regular columnist for the Catholic Connection, and a favorite of all those whom she encounters. In the fall she leaves for Rome to continue her ministry at age 74! We will miss you Sr. Martinette. ary was a woman of prayer and service.

God was the center of her life and, through her goodness, He came into the world. Like Mary, I too am a woman of prayer. At a very young age, I said goodbye to my yesterdays and hello to the new experiences of answering my call to the religious life.

Giving my life to God was no small decision to make. In my heart I felt to get something I never had, I would have to do something I had never done. As a child I prayed my rosary daily and my mother would remind me to add an extra Hail Mary for my vocation. Mary would show me the way and I wanted to be like her in every way.

My 60 years were not mine, but a call to give, not only to love and work, but to life and the many children I taught. They were given a better life through me.

As I look at my 60 years in the convent, all the places it took me, I thought of something I once read about being successful in life by Mac Anderson.

“Successful is the person who has lived well, laughed often, loved much, never lacked appreciation for earth’s beauty, never fails to look for the best in others, and gives the best of themselves.”

What does it matter where our roots are or where we went to school and how educated we became? All that matters, in the end, is how much love we had in our hearts for others. How well we received God’s graces and gifts and how we used them for others.

My whole body, mind, spirit, heart and soul were caught up in this call from

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God. On July 14, 1950 I began a spiritual journey not knowing what lay ahead. I did not have to go very far to find God in the needy. I saw so many injustices in Louisiana. This made me all the more determined to do something to help God’s less fortunate.

At different times in my life, I felt the Holy Spirit stir at the core of my being. I taught 10 years in segregated schools, and spent 20 more years after that as a teacher. My last six years of teaching were at Holy Rosary in Shreveport. In 1988, I was sent to Bangladesh, which meant I had to learn a new language at 52. The years I spent there were some of my best.

Aging at this season of my life became a big factor for me as I realized it takes great potential straight from the heart to cope with all the changes. There is a special kind of beauty deeply imbedded in the heart of an older person.

Going back to school at age 66 in the field of Gerontology meant everything to me. Teaching a course to elders was so rewarding. Working for six years at Azalea Assisted Living facility, has been one of the highlights of my elderhood.

My journey walking on God’s holy ground has taken me from the USA, to Italy, to Asia, back to the USA, in my birthplace of Shreveport, and now back to Italy. What a journey this has been.

God gave me many wonderful, fruitful years and for that I am most grateful. I could not have asked for more. If I cry, it will be in gratitude and sheer delight of having served Him for so many years and leaving so many footprints on the lives of so many people.

A new chapter begins now at the age of 74, as I leave the country again on an elder mission that is different than I ever expected. Life is no brief candle for me. It is a sort of splendid torch for which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible in the Eternal City of Rome before handing it on to future generations.

In my 60 years in the convent, God has opened doors to a life for me I never dreamed possible, and new doors are opening again with my new assignment to Italy. Anything can happen if you believe and trust in God.

Diocese Celebrates 24 Years, Announces Plans for 25th Anniversary Celebration

Steubenville South

by Julia Norton, St. Joseph Church

by Jessica Rinaudo, Editor

Parish representatives process into Mass with candles representing the 100th anniversary of the Diocese of Alexandria, the Diocese of Shreveport's mother diocese.

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n June 22, Catholics from across north Louisiana gathered together to celebrate the 24th anniversary of the Diocese of Shreveport and the 100th Anniversary of its mother diocese, the Diocese of Alexandria.

Representatives of parishes from across the Diocese of Shreveport gathered in the entry hall of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans and lit special candles to prepare for the evening’s anniversary Mass.

The candles were gifts from the Diocese of Alexandria, noting their centennial anniversary. Each representative carried the candle into Mass and then brought it back to share with their parish.

The voices of a combined choir from Shreveport and Alexandria filled the Cathedral, announcing the beginning of Mass. The candle bearers made their way to the front, followed by the Knights of Columbus, deacons, priests and Bishops Michael Duca and Ronald Herzog.

Bishop Michael Duca greeted the congregation with warm words.

“I thank you for coming tonight to celebrate three things, the anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of Shreveport, the 100th centennial celebration of the establishment of the Diocese of Alexandria, our mother diocese, and also the celebration of our priests who have anniversaries and who serve us so well.”

Bishop Duca followed up on this sentiment in his homily.

“To celebrate 24 years as a diocese is truly a wonderful event. We even look to a broader meaning as well, as we connect our history with the history of

Alexandria, and before that Natchitoches and Natchez and the Church universal.”

St. Joseph Church youth members attend Included in this Mass was the Steubenville South Youth Conference. celebration of several priests’ St. Joseph Church in anniversaries and one deacon: Fr. Adrian Shreveport took 20 people Fischer and Fr. Al Jost, 35 years, Fr. to the Steubenville South Philip Theempalangattu, 30 years, Fr. Youth Conference in Alexandria Richard Norsworthy, 25 years, Fr. Peter June 25-27.

Other area Catholic Mangum, 20 years, Fr. Charles Glorioso, churches, including St. Elizabeth 15 years, Fr. James McLelland, 10 years Ann Seton Church, St. Mary of the and Deacon Ron Morris, 10 years.

Pines Church and St. Ann Church, “These are the men who serve as Stonewall, took youth members to our unifiers, our presiders over the the event as well.

Eucharist, our pastors. They extend my There we joined 3,500 other work to you. They are the ones who also, Catholics at the Conference. It was like me, have a desire to look out for the truly awe inspiring to see thousands future and begin with the energy to build of young Catholics gathered the Church for the next 25 years,” said together to sing, pray, praise, Bishop Duca.

Bishop Duca also announced plans for worship and adore Jesus.

This year’s theme was “The Word the 25-year celebration of the Diocese of Became Flesh: John 1:14.” It was Shreveport in 2011. an amazing group of young people “Today I want to, in a very special way, who experienced first hand why announce that next year at this time, on The Word became flesh and how June 11, 2011, a Saturday, we will gather we can be more Christlike through the Church of Shreveport in, what I Theology of the Body. hope, is an unbelievable convocation of Several youth who attended said the diocese.” they had life changing experiences “Next year we have made during the weekend. arrangements to go back to the We were also able to go to Convention Center on June 11 for workshops on witnessing to our a Mass of the whole diocese. The friends, keeping dating holy, how whole day we hope will be filled with and why our culture lies to us, workshops and speakers to invigorate developing a personal prayer life, our faith. We will do it under the praying the Mass, and praying with theme: ‘Christ Yesterday, Today and Mary.

As always the best parts of Tomorrow.’” the weekend were being able to go Mass closed with words from Bishop to reconciliation, having Eucharistic Ronald Herzog, “It’s a delight to be here Adoration on Friday and Saturday tonight with you and congratulations on nights and being able to attend Mass your pre-silver jubilee and hopefully I‘ll be able to join you again next year on the with 3,500 of our closest friends on Saturday and Sunday mornings. eleventh of June.”

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9 8

Retreat Day for Dallas School of Ministry Announces Catechetical Teachers Deacon Formation in Diocese of Shreveport & Youth Ministers

by Rebecca Jackson, University of Dallas School of Ministry

by Sr. Marilyn Vassallo, csj

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ishop Michael Duca, and Sr. Marilyn Vassallo, CSJ will offer a day of retreat for all involved in teaching our youth in parishes, Catholic schools and youth ministry programs throughout the diocese.

This retreat will be held in Monroe on Saturday, Aug. 14 at the Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd.

The same retreat will be offered again on Aug. 21 at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. The day will begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. There is no fee for this event.

Bishop Duca will offer a reflection on “The Challenge of Religious Education in Today’s Church.”

Sr. Marilyn will follow with a presentation on “Teaching the Jesus Story for Life.” Participants will also share ideas and hopes with Bishop Duca regarding the future of religious education and youth ministry in our diocese.

Breakout sessions will be led by Dr. Linda J. Webster, Chair of the Department of Communications at LSU-S. Joining Dr. Webster will be Cathy Cobb, Director of Faith Formation and Outreach at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, and Randy Tiller, Director of Mission Effectiveness for the diocese.

Registration for this day can be made through pastors, directors of religious education, as well as youth ministry directors. Registration can also be made through Brandy Boudreau, bboudreau@dioshpt.org or 318-868-4441. Registrations are due no later than August 6.

10 11 Catholic Connection August 2010

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he University of Dallas School of Ministry, in partnership with the Diocese of Shreveport, announces a new cooperative agreement for a formation program to train permanent deacons in the Diocese of Shreveport. Beginning in the fall of 2010, qualified students will have the opportunity to enroll in the program through the Greco Institute of the Diocese of Shreveport.

This innovative diaconate program will satisfy the academic requirements for deacon formation as outlined by the Congregation for Catholic Education and by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

“This agreement continues the strong commitment to faith formation for which the diocese is known,” said Dr. Brian Schmisek, Dean of the School of Ministry.

That diocesan commitment to faith formation has been deeply enriched by its ongoing eight-year relationship with the School of Ministry.

“Even before my installation as Bishop of the Diocese of Shreveport, I was aware of the unique connection between the Diocese and the School of Ministry,” said the Most Rev. Michael Duca, Bishop of Shreveport. “Having been rector of Holy Trinity Seminary on the University of Dallas campus, I was aware of the School of Ministry’s good work and of the leadership provided by Dr. Schmisek to create their excellent programs. I am pleased not only to continue our relationship with the School of Ministry but am also confident that they will have the quality programs we desire for our new deacon class. I look forward to our continuing collaboration.”

Currently, students have the opportunity to participate in graduate programs from the School of Ministry through weekend and online courses.

Beginning this fall, they will also have the chance to participate in the School of Ministry’s Catholic Biblical School in both Shreveport and Monroe.

Our selection of the School of Ministry’s Deacon Formation Program was positively influenced by our prior relationship,” said Fr. Pat Madden,

Director of Greco Institute. “The combination of sound academic theology with pastoral ministry is a major strength of it. We are pleased to offer this four-year program not only to candidates for ordination, but also to a number of laity who are involved in the ministry of religious education. This program is an excellent and thorough introduction to Catholic theology.”

Schmisek, who worked in the Diocese of Shreveport for two years, agrees with Fr. Madden.

“This program is comprehensive, academic, and spiritual, with professors from the University of Dallas teaching theology and related courses on-site in Shreveport,” Schmisek added.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for faith formation, or simply theological enrichment. Many have found that their faith comes alive when they enter into this process.”

Providing such opportunities for faith to come alive has been the work of the School of Ministry for the past two decades, reaching out in innovative ways to dioceses as close as Fort Worth, TX, and as far away as Atlanta, GA. For more information about the deacon formation program or the other programs offered in Shreveport, please visit the School of Ministry at www. udallas.edu/ministry or the Greco Institute at www.grecoinstitute.org.

Schools &

Technology Jesus the Good Shepherd School (Monroe) 318-325-8569 Loyola College Prep (Shreveport) 318-221-2675 Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy (Shreveport) 318-222-5051 Our Lady of Fatima School (Monroe) 318-387-1851 St. Frederick High School (Monroe) 318-323-9636 St. John Berchmans School (Shreveport) 318-221-6005 St. Joseph School (Shreveport) 318-865-3585 Total Enrollment: 1985 5 Elementary Schools: 1210 3 Middle Schools: 192 2 High Schools: 583 $12 million budget The Catholic Schools believe that each person is a sacred individual. We believe that each person is a significant and essential part of the whole Body of Christ, both called and destined by God for continued growth and maturity. It is the primary responsibility of the schools to create a truly Catholic, Christian environment in which each student can become more aware of his/her selfworth and seek fulfillment at all levels of development. Our Catholic Schools are committed to instilling values, morals and proper attitudes. We uphold a standard of order and discipline to teach students responsibility, accountability and respect.

We prepare each student for life in this world and in eternity with the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Church. The faculty, staff and administration are dedicated to carrying out their Christ-inspired vocations.

Their commitment and sacrifice are inspiring and help form a familial bond that exists between personnel and students.

Moving Forward and Making a Difference

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atholic Schools continue to bring the Good News to yet another generation of students. Today’s learner is engaged in the classroom in cooperative learning groups; wired to the Internet; praising the Lord through prayer and liturgy. Students today are truly men and women of tomorrow. Thus our classrooms must be prepared to fully provide an environment that is comprehensive enough to bring the Living Word to life, and connected enough for students to communicate to and with other students across the globe.

The past three years a sort of revolution has been occurring in the schools.

The principals have been methodically transforming each classroom into a fully developed 21st century classroom. The students are fully engaged in each class through the use of the Smartboard and digital response systems.

This coming school year, with the introduction of the iPad and iPod into the classroom, students will begin the migration from textbooks to digital learning. This is a move for which principals and teachers have been preparing students for the past three years. As a part of this plan, all students grades four and above will be provided a school email account, and students will begin emailing daily homework assignments to the teacher.

Finally, the Wii is being introduced into the curriculum. The Wii will provide an enhancement to the Physical Education program and to the classroom curriculum. Our students learn in many ways.

It is our goal to reach students where they are and bring them into an educational environment that inspires and motivates them.

We are moving forward and making a difference in north Louisiana! – Sr. Carol Shively, OSU, Superintendent, Diocese of Shreveport Catholic Schools

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St. John Berchmans Cathedral School

Our Lady of Fatima School

n the classrooms at St. John Berchmans School, the use of technology brings about a new kind of assessment and response between teachers and students.

Our teachers use technology to enhance instruction of core curriculum. Our students master problem-solving skills by using technology to respond to instruction.

Technology is used to help students analyze authentic data and demonstrate their understanding clearly. They identify weather trends, use probes in science experiments and program robots.

Technology helps students think about a problem and solve it. The manner in which information and problems are presented will always be changing, but the method for analyzing information and problems remains constant. At St. John Berchmans School, we pair understanding of research with technology to prepare and empower students to use technology to broaden their understanding of real-life problems.

n May 2010, Our Lady of Fatima School received 17 brand new computers to upgrade its computer lab. The TADS Tuition Management Company donated the computers through its KAIROS division, which provides technology management services for schools. The new computers in the lab allow for the replacement of the computers that were previously in the lab. This allows the old computers to be placed into individual classrooms, resulting in greater access for students to take Accelerated Reader tests and perform research for class work. The students are very excited to start using the new computers.

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12 13 Catholic Connection August 2010

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St. Joseph School

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tudies show that educational technology plays a positive role in academic achievement at all levels. By integrating technology into daily use in the classroom, teachers are encouraging inquiry-based learning and emphasizing critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. Together this creates a synergy that boosts student learning.

At St. Joseph School, the use of technology in the classroom focuses on students as participants and agents, and teachers as guides or mentors.

Students are being reached on individual levels of learning by tapping into many different learning styles. Our children are “plugged in” on a daily basis, so why would we expect them to “power down” when at school? Educational technology, such as the electronic Smartboard, which houses over 5,000 pieces of hands-on, interactive learning tools; Elmo cameras; electronic grade-level reporting; teacher webpages; email; and EDLINE, which affords parents and students the opportunity to check grades daily, are but a few of the more innovative methods of learning and sharing information at SJS. Increased classroom participation, cooperative grouping to produce PowerPoint presentations, and elevated standardized test scores are just a few of the positive results gleaned from our investment in technology. We are producing students who are well prepared to enter the 21st-century.

Jesus the Good Shepherd School

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echnology continues to move forward at Jesus the Good Shepherd School. Our textbooks are online and available for parents and students.

Many of our classrooms have interactive Smartboards. With the purchase of two additional Smartboards this year, we have one Smartboard in each grade level.

These boards help enhance our learning environment and encourage our students to take an active role in the learning process.

Each homeroom classroom has a flat screen television connected to the teacher’s computer. These televisions are used as large computer monitors for whole class instruction. Many of our teachers use them for PowerPoint presentations as well as United Streaming through Louisiana Public Broadcasting.

This year our school purchased 60 Neo2’s. These are mobile laptop computers used in both small and large group settings in the classrooms. Students use the Neo’s to take Accelerated Reader tests, Math Facts in a Flash, as well as using them for responders with our Smartboards.

We continue to provide professional development each year for our faculty.

The use of technology in our school is very important and continues to move forward each year.

Loyola College Prep

St. Frederick High School

t Loyola College Prep, textbooks could soon be a relic of the past.

They’re so old school when you have a 16GB iPad, and Loyola has 60 of the latest must-have technology from Apple for use in classrooms.

The iPads were introduced in May to teachers who will participate in a pilot project. If all goes well, Frank Israel, principal, anticipates replacing heavy and expensive textbooks with less expensive, interactive e-versions.

The iPads provide many academic advantages, such as access to photos, videos, daily newspapers and resource material that enhance curriculum.

English teachers will show students how, with a click, they can look up unfamiliar words in Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

Science teachers will be able to lead students through an interactive display of a cutaway view of the body, demonstrating the zoom function for closer looks.

If history class students want to copy a graph the teacher draws on the board? There’s an app for that. How about checking comprehension with a pop quiz? Students find out immediately whether they answered correctly.

When a teacher is lecturing, students can type their notes using the flat-screen keyboard, and if he’s talking too fast, well there’s an app for that too. SoundPaper gives students the ability to record the lecture for listening at home.

ducating college-preparatory junior high and high school students in the 21st century must reflect an understanding of the role technology plays not only in their everyday lives, but also in the university environments they will eventually experience and their future careers.

Our diocese is blessed with a Catholic Schools superintendent who not only understands this essential point, but assists our schools in accessing and providing 21st century technology for our teachers and students.

This year, each of the St. Frederick High School classrooms will feature a Smartboard, LCD and ELMO projector unit, in addition to already-installed, wall-mounted televisions, providing our students and teachers access to the nearly unlimited resources available in cyberspace.

St. Frederick High School is also beginning to incorporate the use of Apple iPads into instruction. Our students will become more actively involved in the learning process by being users of this technology and not simply the recipients. We look forward with excitement about learning what these changes will bring to our wonderful campus.

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E

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Terra Nova Achievement Test Reading Language National

Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy

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his year our students are going all across the United States. They will visit the Everglades, Death Valley and Carlsbad Caverns, all without ever leaving the classroom. Thanks to a partnership with the efieldtrips. org and the US National Park Service, our students will be able to see wildlife, explore unique landscapes and become more aware of their environment than ever. Efieldtrips only require a computer and a webcam. They are excellent for teachers wanting to take their lessons to the next step. Technology allows us to take real time tours, enjoy live Q&A sessions with park rangers and see wildlife in action. At OLBSA, we are very excited about these upcoming “trips!�

50

Math

Science

Social Studies Spelling

50

50

50

50

50

Kindergarten 53

N/A

61

N/A

N/A

N/A

Grade 1

85

N/A

80

85

82

N/A

Grade 2

78

85

71

81

82

80

Grade 3

73

83

75

89

83

75

Grade 4

70

73

71

72

79

70

Grade 5

70

69

74

72

73

76

Grade 6

72

74

75

71

81

74

Grade 7

75

78

73

73

78

72

Grade 8

75

71

70

77

80

71

ACT Scores National: 21.1

State: 20.1

St. Frederick: 21.8

Loyola: 24.2

Faculty & Staff Service Awards 5 YEARS: Leah Baker Sarah Bishop Traci Wade Dionne Procell Stephen Slack Kristi Fife Jamie Humphrey Dee Laing Sr. John Mary Jackson, ssf Sr. Stephanie Langston, ssf Ruthie Brown

Andy Davis Adriane Hebert Shawn Bernard Carol McCann Bridget Nolen Gwen Paga Christine Sepulvado Jo Cazes Judy Polhemus

Susan Brady Robert Harris

10 YEARS: Judith Edwards Lisa Patrick

30 YEARS: Lidia Wilson

15 YEARS: Stewart Maxey Betsy Yates Jennifer Malone Stacy Doyal Susan Hymel Christina McCaa

ACRE Test Scores 2009-2010 90

Profession of Faith

Liturgy & Sacraments

Life in Christ

Christian Prayer

85

14 15 Catholic Connection August 2010

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

Nat'l 68%

DOS 76%

Nat'l 79%

DOS 86%

Nat'l 70%

DOS 82%

Nat'l 65%

DOS 72%

Nat'l 76%

DOS 85%

DOS 82%

Nat'l 69%

DOS 80%

Nat'l 69%

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

Diocese of Shreveport Average

DOS 79%

Nat'l 69%

DOS 84%

Nat'l 76%

DOS 82%

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

Nat'l 68%

60

Nat'l 69%

65

DOS 79%

70

DOS Avg. 89%

75

National Avg. 78%

80

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade11

National Average

Smartphone Applications Integrate Prayer Life with Daily Technology

by Gretchen R. Crowe, Catholic News Service

The iMissal application provides daily readings, Catholic prayers and Bible verses.

(CNS photo/Gretchen R. Crowe, Arlington Catholic Herald)

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RLINGTON, VA (CNS) -- Praying is now so 21st century. Instead of a paperback missalette, there's iMissal. Instead of prayer cards, there's a touch-screen Saint A Day. Instead of randomly jotting down prayer requests, there’s a digitally organized list in PrayerSteward.

These three applications (apps) only scratch the surface of faith-related digital materials available in Apple’s App Store and, to a lesser extent, in the Android Market and Palm Pre App Catalog. With these digital Catholic resources comes the undeniable convenience of modern-day prayer.

“I know people who before they even get out of bed they have their iPod Touch or their iPhone in their hand," said Sr. Kathryn James Hermes, a Daughter of St. Paul and director of digital publishing for Pauline Books and Media. "You could be looking at the psalms or the morning meditation,” she added.

In March, Parks Associates, a market research and consulting company specializing in digital technologies, reported that smartphone users are expected to quadruple by 2014, resulting in 1 billion users worldwide.

That’s a market that everyone, even the Vatican, can get behind.

On Easter Sunday, the Vatican

Observatory Foundation, which promotes scientific research of the heavens, launched the Vatican-approved iPhone app: “Daily Sermonettes with Father Mike Manning.”

“These daily reflections are inspired by Scripture, using God’s uplifting message as a guide in your daily life, supporting the foundation’s mission of scientific research, education and discovery,” the website reads.

Also approved by the Vatican is iBreviary, an app developed in part by Italian priest Fr. Paolo Padrini, that contains daily readings, the Liturgy of the Hours and other prayers in multiple languages.

The iMissal app contains a full calendar displaying all liturgical seasons, all Mass readings for every liturgical cycle, audio readings, a daily Bible verse and a list of popular prayers.

“It really is meant to become the source of everything Catholic that Catholics turn to for prayer and devotion and faith,” Sr. Kathryn said. “It’s this very simple thing.

You can have the readings right in your hand along with everything else that organizes your life.”

Through the Rosary Miracle Prayer app, users can pray the rosary in his or her own “sacred space.” Audio tracks feature the Daughters of St. Paul praying the decades, and 18 different sets of pictures help draw the faithful into the four sets of mysteries.

From within the app, users can e-mail the Daughters of St. Paul directly with personal prayer intentions.

With the Saint A Day app, invoking a prayer to the patron saint of cancer, artists, flying or mail delivery is only an index finger away. A quick search results in a wide breadth of information on a particular saint, and users then are able to e-mail it to a friend in need.

PrayerSteward, an application released earlier this month by Safe-t-Technologies LLC, offers an easy way to keep track of prayer intentions. Once a user makes a promise to remember someone in prayer, it can be added to the PrayerSteward list.

The user can set time limits or reminders or e-mail the prayer request to others.

Despite all the apps, smartphones and fancy devices, however, the mission of evangelization for the Daughters of St. Paul -- and for the church -- remains the same today as 2,000 years ago in St. Paul’s time.

“All of these things are means,” Sr. Kathryn said. “They are a way to reach out to a lot of people at once. That's really the essence of our mission, to evangelize out.”

Farewell Father Richard K. Pusch

by Christine Rivers, Chancellor

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everend Richard K. Pusch, coordinator of prison ministry for the Diocese of Shreveport, passed away July 13, 2010 in Bossier City following a brief illness. Fr. Pusch was born May 1, 1937 in Chicago, IL, and ordained to the priesthood May 22, 1971 for service in the Diocese of Madison, WI. In 1974, Fr. Pusch became a priest-chaplain in the United States Air Force and attained the rank of Major. He was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base from 1986 through 1990. After completing 20 years of service as military chaplain, Father Pusch began ministry in the area of hospital chaplaincy and pastoral care. He was incardinated into the Diocese of Shreveport on November 22, 1993, and ministered as parochial vicar and/or pastor at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, St. Paul Church, and Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. In 1998 Father Pusch was assigned as chaplain at Forcht Wade Correctional Center and later at David Wade prison. His work as prison chaplain was recognized by the Louisiana Department of Corrections in 2005.

Wake and rosary were held at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans on July 18. A Funeral Mass was celebrated on July 19 at the Cathedral. Principal celebrant was Most Reverend Michael G. Duca, Bishop of Shreveport, and homilist was Msgr. Earl V. Provenza. He was buried at All Saints Cemetery, Des Plaines, IL. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.

15 14

Caring for Each Other, Even Unto Death

by Marie T. Hilliard, ms, ma, jcl, phd

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ecently the daughter of a man dying of cancer called the National Catholic Bioethics Center’s consultation line.

Her father, while still able to swallow, was ingesting less and less as death approached.

He had received the Anointing of the Sick and Viaticum (i.e., the Eucharist given to the dying). The daughter asked if there was a moral obligation to provide assisted nutrition and hydration as death drew near. After determining that her father’s vital organs no longer could assimilate food and water, causing the decreased appetite, the moral decision was made not to initiate assisted nutrition and hydration. The next day the daughter called, stating that her father had died, and expressing gratitude for the advice.

It was obvious that the underlying pathology, not euthanasia through starvation and dehydration, had caused his death.

Families also get advice from other sources. Tragically, some have been wrongly advised by the medical community that preserving their loved one’s “dignity” and ending their suffering require ending their life by active intervention, or more frequently, by omitting basic care.

Many families are unsure about moral options for the care of their loved ones.

Fortunately, the popes and bishops of the Catholic Church have provided invaluable guidance concerning end-of-life decisions, including issues of pain control and consciousness, the provision of food and water to dying or unconscious patients, the right to refuse certain treatments, and the duty to care, even when a cure is no longer possible.

In this article, one can only highlight these teachings, so readers are encouraged to read the entire statements and directives mentioned below, which are available online.

What does the Church teach about pain control and consciousness?

The Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (ERDs) state, “Patients should be kept as free of pain as possible so that they may die comfortably and with dignity, and in the place where they wish to die. Since a person has the right to prepare for his or her death while fully conscious, he or she should not be deprived of consciousness without a compelling reason...” In some cases, pain control may require brief or prolonged periods of unconsciousness. Pain control can be provided even if, in rare cases, the needed doses may have an anticipated, but

16 17 Catholic Connection August 2010

unintended effect of hastening death. The intention is to control extreme pain, not to hasten death. With euthanasia, however, there is an explicit intent to terminate the patient’s life, representing a grave evil with eternal consequences.

Currently, three states allow physicianassisted suicide. Some states practice a more covert form of euthanasia, providing patients who suffer from physical or even psychological pain with high doses of sedation, when other effective relief is available. Then assisted nutrition and hydration are withheld, causing death by dehydration or starvation, not the underlying pathology. This is sometimes called “terminal sedation,” distinguishable from the legitimate use of sedation as a last resort to treat patients suffering in their last days.

The difference is in the physician’s intent, whether it is to end life or control pain.

What does the Church teach about providing food and water to unconscious or dying patients?

Pope John Paul II taught: “I should like particularly to underline how the administration of water and food, even when provided by artificial means, always represents a natural means of preserving life, not a medical act. Its use, furthermore, should be considered, in principle, ordinary and proportionate, and as such morally obligatory, insofar as and until it is seen to have attained its proper finality, which in the present case consists in providing nourishment to the patient and alleviation of his suffering.” This principle has been affirmed by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and incorporated into the Ethical and Religious Directives in 2009 What does the Church teach about the patient’s right to refuse or forego certain medical treatments?

The papal encyclical The Gospel of Life condemns euthanasia, drawing a key distinction between euthanasia and the decision to forego “medical procedures which no longer correspond to the real situation of the patient, either because they are by now disproportionate to any expected results or because they impose an excessive burden on the patient and his family. In such situations, when death is clearly imminent and inevitable, one can in conscience refuse forms of treatment that would only secure a precarious and burdensome prolongation of life, so long as the normal care due to the sick person in similar cases is not interrupted.”

It is clear that there is no moral requirement to utilize burdensome treatments that merely prolong the dying process. Unless the patient is very near

death, however, the provision of nutrition and hydration, even by artificial means, should be administered as long as they can sustain life and alleviate suffering without imposing serious risks or side effects to the patient.

Today active interventions or omissions of basic care are proposed for ending the lives of not only the dying, but also patients suffering from a long-term cognitive disability, such as advanced dementia or a so-called persistent “vegetative” state. Some argue that patients who cannot consciously respond have lost their “human dignity.”

This view is dangerously wrong: Human beings never lose their dignity, that is, their inherent and inestimable worth as unique persons loved by God and created in His image. People can be denied respect affirming that dignity, but they never lose their God-given dignity.

What does the Church teach about our duty to care for dying or vulnerable family members?

When a family or health care providers refuse to provide basic care (nutrition, hydration, cleanliness, warmth, and prevention of complications from confinement to bed), finding it “inconvenient” to accompany the loved one on the final journey, the assault on human dignity is grave. When such abandoning of the disabled or unconscious patient is codified in state laws, the implications for society are frightening. Pope Benedict XVI states in his encyclical In Hope We are Saved (Spe Salvi), Nov. 20, 2007: “The true measure of humanity is essentially determined in relationship to suffering and to the sufferer.... A society unable to accept its suffering members and incapable of helping to share their suffering and to bear it inwardly through ‘compassion’ is a cruel and inhuman society” (no. 38).

Christ calls us to love one another: “This is my commandment: love one another as I love you” (John 15:12). He loved us unto death, even death on the cross. Few are called to such a sacrifice; but we are called to be companions to each other, especially to those suffering on life’s journey.

“Companion” is taken from the word “cumpanis,” meaning “with bread.” Thus, we are called to share the bread of Eucharist with each other, responding with Christ’s sacrificial love. We are asked not only to care for each other, but to nourish each other, even unto death.

Dr. Hilliard is the director of bioethics and public policy for The National Catholic Bioethics Center.

She is a canon lawyer and a registered nurse.

The National Catholic Bioethics Center provides a 24 hour ethics consultation service, free of charge: 215-877-2660.

News Briefs by Catholic News Service

Pope Announces Formation of Pontifical Council for New Evangelization

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Father Mike Tran and Rob Gorman, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, LA, are shown surveying the contaminated beach in Grand Isle, LA. (CNS photo/Lawrence Chatagnier, Bayou Catholic)

Bishops Express Pastoral Solidarity with All Affected By Oil Spill

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ASHINGTON (CNS) -- The U.S. bishops publicly expressed their “heartfelt prayers and pastoral solidarity with all those affected by the oil that continues to leak into the Gulf of Mexico. We pray first and foremost for those who died in the initial explosion and for the grieving members of their families,” they said. “We express our prayerful support as well for the families and individuals whose lives and livelihoods have been so negatively impacted by the oil that daily contaminates water, beaches and God’s creation in the Gulf Coast area,” the bishops said in a statement written during their spring gathering in St. Petersburg, Fla. It was released by their press office in Washington June 18. Because of the nation’s ongoing economic crisis, the bishops said they have special concern for those who have lost jobs and income because of the man-made disaster, the worst environmental catastrophe in U.S. history. “We offer our prayers for our government leaders and for the industry leaders and experts who are working to cap the leak and repair this damage,” they said.

ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI announced he is establishing a pontifical council for new evangelization to find ways “to repropose the perennial truth of the Gospel” in regions where secularism is smothering church practice. Leading an evening prayer service June 28 at Rome’s Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, Pope Benedict said there are areas of the globe that have been known as Christian for centuries, but where in the past few centuries “the process of secularization has produced a serious crisis” in people’s sense of what it means to be Christian and to belong to the church.

“I have decided to create a new organism, in the form of a pontifical council, with the principal task of promoting a renewed evangelization in the countries where the first proclamation of faith has already resounded and where there are churches of ancient foundation present, but which are living through a progressive secularization of society and a kind of ‘eclipse of the sense of God,’” he said. The challenge, he said, is to find ways to help people rediscover the value of faith. The pope did not say what the formal name of the pontifical council would be and he did not announce who would head it, although in the weeks leading to the announcement, Vatican commentators suggested it would be Italian Archbishop Rino Fisichella, currently president of the Pontifical Academy for Life.

Revised Norms Expand Way Church Responds to Sex Abuse

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ATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The Vatican recently updated the 2001 norms that deal with priestly sex abuse of minors, in effect codifying practices that have been in place for several years. The revisions have been in the pipeline for some time and were published in mid-July. The revised Vatican norms dealing with sexual abuse of minors by priests and other “more grave crimes” against church law contain several changes from the previous version published in 2001. The main provisions of the revised norms: Extend the statute of limitations from 10 to 20 years after a sex abuse victim’s 18th birthday; include use of child pornography as a type of sexual abuse of minors; establish parity between abuse of mentally disabled people and that of minors; confirm the right of the Vatican’s doctrinal congregation to ask the pope to laicize an abusive priest without a church trial, in the most serious and clear cases; confirm that the doctrinal congregation can use an “extra-judicial” process to quickly remove an accused priest from active ministry; confirm the practice of allowing qualified lay Catholics, and not only priests with doctorates in canon law, to serve on tribunals that deal with sex abuse cases; confirm the doctrinal congregation’s competency to judge cardinals, patriarchs and bishops accused of “more grave crimes.”

Evening prayer service led by Pope Benedict XVI on June 28. At the service, the pope announced he is establishing a pontifical council for new evangelization. (CNS photo/P aul Haring)

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Hispanic Corner

Nuestra Página por Rosalba Quiroz

Educándonos en Nuestra Fe Católica atólico Ignorante, Seguro Protestante! ¡ Esta es una frase que suena muy rítmica sin embargo encierra la triste realidad al ver como muchos hermanos católicos dejan la iglesia porque no la conocen. Aprender más de nuestra religión nos ayuda a vivir mejor y nuestra iglesia en su preocupación por el bienestar de todos sus fieles ofrece métodos prácticos y clases de Biblia a todo el que quiera aprender, amar y confiar de verdad en Dios. ¿Cómo poder amar lo que no se conoce? Necesitamos conocer más de nuestro Creador y del mensaje de Jesús “llevar la Buena Nueva a toda creatura”.

Después de prepararnos para los Sacramentos de la Primera Comunión y la Confirmación necesitamos seguir aprendiendo para poder vivir como verdaderos cristianos. La escuela de la vida nos va dando experiencia y un mejor entendimiento de este mundo pero debemos seguir estudiando no solo para sobrevivir en esta tierra sino con más ganas para nuestra vida futura. ¿Tenemos nuestras prioridades en orden? ¿Qué es, para empezar una prioridad?...

Antes de dejar nuestra religión hay que instruirnos, aprender más de la vida de nuestros antepasados, de la herencia católica que nos han dejado nuestros padres y de las enseñanzas de Jesús en el Nuevo Testamento. Esta debe ser nuestra primera prioridad: Conocer y colaborar con el mensaje de Jesús.

Jesús, el Salvador, nos enseña a través de la Biblia pero especialmente con su ejemplo de vida como vivir

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Misas

Bossier City: Christ the King 425 McCormick St. Bossier City Domingo 3:00 p.m.

Marilú Rodriguez Tel: 318-286-1492 Farmerville: Our Lady of Perpetual Help 600 E. Water Street, Farmerville Sábado 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Al Jost Tel: 318-243-0115

como verdaderos cristianos. Una de las mejores herramientas es la que nos da en El Sermón del Monte (Mateo 5:3-11) que es como los diez mandamientos basados en el amor al prójimo y en lo que debemos hacer.

Los Diez Mandamientos que Moisés recibió de Dios en el Antiguo Testamento nos dicen lo que no hay que hacer para no caer en pecado mortal. En el Sermón del Monte, conocido también

como las Bienaventuranzas Jesús nos dice lo que hay que hacer – unirnos al sufrimiento - para vivir en comunión con Él y con el prójimo con la ayuda del Espíritu Santo para gloria de Dios Padre y nuestra vida eterna.

Para obtener una Biblia gratis o para aprender como leer e interpretar la Biblia favor de llamar a la oficina del Ministerio Hispano al teléfono 318-2197265.

Calendario Diocesano del Mes de Agosto

7-8 Escuela de Ministerios: Tema Principios de Pastoral Hispana. Esta clase está abierta además de los que ya están tomando el curso, a todos los interesados en aprender más sobre los problemas y metodologías actuales en la teología pastoral y sus aplicaciones en el contexto religioso y social de la situación hispana local.

Llama para información o para registrarte.

15 Festividad de la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María.

17 Reunión de los directores de Ministerio Hispano del estado de Luisiana. Centro Católico.

20-22 Retiro de Jóvenes adultos que hayan cumplido, sin excepciones los 18 años.

Waskom/Scottsville, TX. Del Viernes 6 p.m. al Domingo 4 p.m. Fecha Límite de inscripción el 12 de Agosto.

23 Los Sacerdotes de la diócesis estarán en su clase de Buenos Pastores, Buenos Líderes.

Septiembre del 2010:

3-5 Primer Retiro Diocesano (Búsqueda) de Adolescentes/jóvenes de 14-17 años.

Waskom/Scottsville, TX. Fecha límite de inscripción 25 de Agosto.

Domingo 2:00 p.m. y 3er Martes 6:30 p.m.

Juanita Ibarra Tel: 318-872-5390 Minden: St. Paul 410 Fincher Road, Minden Viernes 7:00 p.m.

Margarita Bratton Tel: 318-377-9684

Ruston: St. Thomas Aquinas 810 Carey Ave, Ruston 2do y 4to Domingo 2:30 p.m.

Soledad Broyles Tel: 318-243-1958 Shreveport: St. Mary of the Pines 1050 Bert Kouns Ind Lp., Shreveport Domingo 1:00 p.m.

Carmen Bradford Tel: 318-455-2300

Oak Grove: Sacred Heart 201 Purvis St, Oak Grove West Monroe: St. Paschal Domingo 5:00 p.m.

711 N 7th Street, W. Monroe Mansfield: St. Joseph Feliciano y Rosa Alviso Martinez Domingo 2:30 p.m.

305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield 2do Tel: 318-428-2137 Lorena Chaparro Tel: 318-651-9136 Rosalba Quiroz, Directora del Ministerio Hispano 318-219-7265 • Rev. Al Jost, Coordinador de La Vicaría del Este • 318-243-0115

18 19 Catholic Connection August 2010

The Archbishop, the Myth, the Legend

Archbishop Philip Hannan Releases His Memoir

by John Mark Willcox

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ith the help of authors Peter Finney, Jr. and Nancy Collins, retired Archbishop Philip M. Hannan has penned his life’s story in the remarkable book The Archbishop Wore Combat Boots. In 457 pages, his astounding tale unfolds, giving the reader a look through the eyes and heart of a priest who was educated in Rome as Hitler and Mussolini came to power, served as a paratroop chaplain in the middle of World War II’s European Theater, witnessed firsthand the proceedings of the Second Vatican Council, was a secret confidant of President John F. Kennedy and the homilist at his funeral, and the personal engineer of the groundbreaking 1987 visit to New Orleans by the late Pope John Paul II. And those are just the highlights of an incredible life dedicated to serving God’s people with vigor, insight and most of all, love.

The product of an immigrant Irish family upbringing in Washington, D.C., Hannan, as a child, was in attendance for the 1920 groundbreaking of the famous Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

With the support of his large, closeknit family, he began his seminary education in 1936, before completing his studies in Rome. Summers afforded Hannan the ability to travel throughout Europe and he saw the unpleasant future in the cadence of goose stepping Nazis and their alarming deprivation of people’s rights through adherence to fascism, which was also swirling around him in Rome during his priestly training.

When war did ensue following his ordination to the priesthood, Archbishop Hannan wasted no time in signing up for military chaplaincy. This led to his famously jumping out of planes as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division that saw plenty of combat in final drive of U.S. forces to take Germany. This included the liberation of concentration camps, the allied occupation of Berlin and even a brief stint as the pastor of Germany’s Cologne Cathedral.

Throughout this section of his book, Archbishop Hannan recounts his experiences in clear prose, providing

keen eye witness insight into the horrors of war, the human capacity to endure incredible hardship, and the kindness and compassion of the Christian heart.

Peacetime found Archbishop Hannan serving as a priest in his home archdiocese in Washington D.C., where he dove into work for Archbishop Patrick O’Boyle, who arranged for his ordination as an auxiliary bishop in 1956. This title and his family connections allowed then Bishop Hannan extraordinary access to prominent politicians including the Kennedy family. This led to his unique relationship with President John F. Kenney who quietly sought advice and support from Hannan before and during his presidency, a relationship that only became apparent after Kennedy’s tragic assassination and Jackie Kennedy’s request for Bishop Hannan’s words from the pulpit on the day our nation mourned his untimely death. He also presided over Robert F. Kennedy’s burial at Arlington Cemetery and the funeral of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1994.

His prior experiences in Rome garnered Hannan the title of Press Officer during the official proceedings of the Second Vatican Council, providing this autobiography a wealth of rare insights into this seminal Church event which still shapes Catholicism in the modern world. His unabashed opinions on what worked and failed in the major documents of Vatican II are worthy stand alone reading in their own right.

Following his participation in Vatican II, Hannan was appointed to New Orleans as the province’s eleventh Archbishop in 1965, right on the heels of Hurricane Betsy. Quickly guiding the New Orleans Church to post-Betsy recovery established Archbishop Hannan as a capable leader.

Following the brave lead of Archbishops Rummel and Cody before him, Hannan worked tirelessly in the charged atmosphere of race relations in the Deep South. Integration of New Orleans’s Catholic Schools was accomplished because of his unwavering commitment to the cause.

His unique grasp of communications and natural flair before the camera

The Archbishop Wore Combat Boots by Archbishop Philip Hannan with Nancy Collins and Peter Finney, Jr. Available at www.amazon.com (Hardcover $24.95).

enabled Hannan to found WLAE TV, which has stood as a beacon of Catholic presence on airwaves crowded with other religious traditions.

Nearing the end of his active episcopacy in New Orleans, Hannan secured the groundbreaking visit to the Crescent City by Pope John Paul II in 1987. This historic and memorable event required every bit of Hannan’s charisma, drive and ingenuity, and he was devoted totally to the planning and preparations.

Retirement has not seen Archbishop Emeritus Hannan slow down as he remains very active in television, politics, and pro-life activities despite approaching centenarian status in 2013.

Calling on skills he learned during hurricane Betsy, Archbishop Hannan took action when Katrina made her deadly entrance in 2005, helping the Church and Archbishop Alfred Hughes overcome immense challenges and support the city in its darkest days.

From combat to Camelot to Katrina, this dynamic man of God is a real treasure. The story of his life is the story of what brought the Church, our nation and the very world to the place it is today.

What a soldier of Christ he has been and remains for us. Read the book, marvel at the power of the Holy Spirit and celebrate the life of God’s servant Philip Hannan.

You will be glad you did.

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Around the Diocese 1

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1. St. Matthew Church hosted "Teen SplashdownPentecost"

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or our teen summer event, we began with a breakfast for all attendees. Fr. David T. Richter was the guest presenter and spoke to the group on vocations and the Year for Priests. Fr. Richter then led us in the celebration of the Mass of the Solemnity of Pentecost, with teens assisting in the various lay ministries.

Afterward, field day activities were held with our guest of honor taking the first seat on the dunking board.

This annual event served to close out the year for our Sunday School program and to kick-off the summer youth program. Fifty teens attended the Splashdown field day.

20 21 Catholic Connection August 2010

2. Sacred Heart Rayville Celebrated Feast of Sacred Heart of Jesus

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he Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrated in Rayville.

Fr. Pike Thomas was the principal celebrant. He was joined by 10 other priests of the diocese. Sacred Heart Church, Rayville is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year with many events. The next event will be an Ecumenical Gathering of local ministers and leaders in September.

Bishop Michael G. Duca will be the keynote speaker.

3. St. Lucy Church Celebrated First Communion

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he sacrament of First Communion was celebrated at St. Lucy Catholic Church in Hodge with a reception following on May 16th. Partaking in their First

Communion were: DeAnndra Rico, Hunter Strickland, Caitlin Anthony, Jayda Keys. Pictured with the class is Msgr. Franz Graef.

4. St. Paschal Church Hosted "God's Great Get-Together" Vacation Bible School

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et under the large and impressive Baobab tree, our St. Paschal children had the opportunity to hear God’s word, were amazed at God’s creation and became a part of a supportive, fun community. Faith and relationships grew as young people explored connections with God, family, friends and others around the world. With music, crafts, science, storytelling and games, children learned the family themes: Trust, Love, Follow, Care and Share.

As a Christian Service project,

Pro Life News

by Roxie Tabor

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7 children collected cans of food each day. All food items were donated to the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana.

5. St. Mary of the Pines Church Hosted Mission

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ather Jim Sichko gave a mission on May 23 - 25 at St. Mary of the Pines. Father Jim fed attendees with song, praise and the Word of God. Fr. Jim Sichko is pictured with Fr. Francis Kamau, fmh.

6. Knights of Columbus Presented Check to Bishop Michael G. Duca

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embers of area Knights of Columbus groups, including Ernest Chmielewski, Stephen Cude and Dave Bodden presented Bishop Michael G. Duca with a check to support Greco Institute and Catholic

Education on May 28.

7. St. Jude Church Celebrated Exciting Vacation Bible School

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his year’s theme was, “Joseph from Prisoner to Palace.” The children had a great time singing, playing games, making crafts and listening to storytellers. Dr. Monica Bontty, a history professor from ULM, visited with us and taught us a lot about Egypt.

For our service project this year we gave Providence House seven blankets, one from each group. The children made hearts and prayed for the children who would receive them. There were over 140 children in attendance. A big thank you to all who made this year’s Vacation Bible School such a great success.

n July 9-11 participants in the National Crossroads Walk for Life stopped in Shreveport to offer prayers at the Hope Women’s Clinic (abortion clinic) and speak to the parishioners at St. Joseph Church, Shreveport’s and St. Jude Church’s weekend Masses. These young adults from all over the U.S., along with Fr. Hilary Flynn from Cairns, Australia are walking from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. in support of Respect for Life. You can learn about this program at www.crossroadswalk.org.

On July 17, St. John Berchmans’ OneLife group offered an educational program on fertility and medical appreciation for diocesan parishioners.

The program, presented by fertility care practitioner Mandy Cox, addressed the Church’s teaching on contraception and natural family planning, as well as invitro fertilization and morally acceptable alternatives. A Rosary for Life was recited after the program.

The weekend of July 17-18, St. Joseph Church, Shreveport conducted a Diaper Drive, collecting packages of diapers at all Masses for the Volunteers of America infant and young children’s programs.

Diapers are expensive and are not covered under food stamps or the state WIC program.

The Louisiana Legislature has passed several strong pro life laws (SB528/ HB1247/HB1370) that make Louisiana one of the most Pro-Life States. For more information, see Acts 490, 888, 941 at http://www.legis.stat.la.us from the 2010 regular legislative session.

The Diocese of Shreveport actively supports Respect for Life from conception to natural death. On the first Saturday of each month, VITA (St. Joseph Church, Shreveport) members and supporters say the rosary in front of the Hope Medical Clinic (abortion clinic) on Kings Highway. St. John Berchmans’ OneLife ministry offers educational programs and sponsors the Pro-Life billboard on Kings Highway.

Future Diocesan events include participation in the 40 Days for Life Campaign in September-October and the First Annual Bishop’s Pro Life Banquet to be held on October 3rd (Respect Life Sunday).

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Upcoming Events AUGUST 14: MAGNIFICAT AUGUST PRAYER BUNCH Join The Magnificat, Nowela Chapter for a prayer brunch on August 14, from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at St. Jude Church in Bossier City.

The guest speaker is Diane Ardoin, a mother of three children and grandmother of four. She lives in Pineville, LA and is a 30 year career employee with the LA Dept. of Transportation and Development in Alexandria, LA and is a member of Our Lady of Prompt Succor church in Alexandria.

She was baptized in the Holy Spirit in 2002. She is involved in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal by serving as chairman of the Alexandria Diocesan Service Committee, leader of the Maryhill Prayer group, and Coordinator of the Women’s Catholic Charismatic Conference.

Her faith journey has been a blessed experience and one she likes to share with others. It is one that has brought hope, peace and a purpose in her life.

The Magnificat is a ministry for Catholic women and this day is set aside to speak to the hearts of women and rejoice in the presence of the Lord.

Reservations should be made prior to Aug. 11 by calling Barbara McAlister at 318-747-7029.

Blue Mass will be August 27.

AUGUST 20: BACK TO CATHOLIC SCHOOLS NIGHT WITH THE SHREVEPORT CAPTAINS Celebrate Back to Catholic School Night with the Shreveport Captains baseball team. Game starts at 7:05 p.m. and tickets are $4.00. Bishop Michael G. Duca will throw out the first ceremonial pitch!

AUGUST 22: MASS HONORING SISTER MARY ANN GAUDIN, sfcc Sister Mary Ann Gaudin, sfcc will celebrate her 70th anniversary as a religious sister at St. Jude Church in Bossier City at the 11:00 a.m. Mass.

All are welcome to attend.

AUGUST 27: BLUE MASS On Friday, August 27, you are invited to the 9th Annual Blue Mass honoring all law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency personnel at St. Mary of the Pines Church, 1050 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop in Shreveport at 9:30 a.m.

SEPTEMBER 26-29: MISSION AT ST. JOSEPH CHURCH, SHREVEPORT St. Joseph Church in Shreveport will host a Fall Mission with Fr. Simeon Gallagher. Sept. 26, 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 27-29, 6:30 p.m.

Contact the Church Office, 318-865-3581.

2 0 1 0 D i o c e s a n s t e w a rd s h i p A p p e 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 August 2010

AUGUST 2010

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Saint Eusebius of Vercelli, bishop; Saint Peter Julian Eymard, priest

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Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, virgin and martyr

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Priests Retirement Saint John Mary Vianney Committee Meeting, Catholic Center, 11am

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Deadline for the Sept. Catholic Connection Back to School Convocation, Catholic Center

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Saint Clare, virgin

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The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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Saint Stephen of Hungary

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Good Leaders, Good Shepherds, Catholic Center, 9:30am Saint Rose of Lima, virgin

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Liturgical Meeting, Catholic Center, 1:15pm Western Deanery Clergy Meeting, Catholic Center, 10:30am

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St. John Berchmans School & Loyola College Prep's Beginning of School Mass, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, 8:15am

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Saint Louis of Editorial Board Meeting, Catholic France; Saint Center, 10:30am Joseph Calasanz, Saint Bartholomew, apostle

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First day of school for Shreveport Catholic Schools Fr. James McLelland's 10 Year Anniversary

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Saint Sixtus II, Diocese of Alexandria's 100th pope & martyr, and Anniversary Mass, his companions, St. Francis Xavier martyrs; Saint Cajetan, priest Cathedral, 6pm The Transfiguration of the Lord

First day of school Retreat Day for Educators & Youth for Monroe Catholic Schools Ministers, Jesus Saint Pontain, pope Good Shepherd & martyr, and Saint Church, 9am

Hippolytus, priest & Saint Maximilian Mary Kolbe, priest Saint Jane Frances martyr & martyr de Chantal, religious

Saint Lawrence, deacon & martyr

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priest

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Advisory Board Meeting for Religious, Catholic Center

Saint John Eudes, priest

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Hispanic Ministry Young Adults Retreat, Scottsville, TX

Saint Bernard, abbot & doctor of the Church

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21 Retreat Day for Educators & Youth Ministers, Catholic Center, 9am Saint Pius X, pope

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Saint Augustine, Blue Mass, St. Mary of the Pines, bishop & doctor of the Church 9:30am Saint Monica

31 1 2 3 4 Hispanic Ministry First Busqueda Retreat, Scottsville, TX

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DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

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Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Diocese of Shreveport's 24th Anniversary Mass

op uc a and Bish D l e a h ic M p Bish o le brate t h e e c g o z r e H ld Ron a Euch a r is t.

Bish op Ro na ld He rz og of th e Diocese of Alexandr ia sp ok e ab ou t th ei r 100t h anni ve rs ar y.

24 Catholic Connection August 2010

Bish op Duca anno un ce d pl ans for th e 25th anni ve rs ar y ce lebratio n du ri ng his homily.

ndr ia se o f Ale xa e c io D l ia c e li t Sp nd le s we re a c y r a s r e anniv in t o M as s . and c a r r ie d

ocese of Cand le s from th e Di n to ve Ale xandri a were gi ti ve s. ta en es pa rish re pr

Pr ie sts were re co gn ized for ordi nation anni ve rs ar ie s du ri ng th e M as s.