Catholic Connection September 2010

VOL. 20, NO. 2

SEPTEMBER 2010

INSIDE St. Patrick Church to Celebrate 140 Years p.6 JGS School Celebrates 50 Years, p. 9 Diocese Welcomes New Seminarians, p.10

Making a Difference

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Locals take strides to make a difference in their communities

Diocese Welcomes New Vicar General 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 Emily Nickelson Kelly Phelan Fr. Mark Watson

Dr. Linda Webster Dr. Betsy Williams

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 LowIncome Families. To find out if you or someone you know qualifies for an Immigration benefit, please contact Mrs. Rosalba Quiroz at 1-800256-1542, ext. 265 or 318-219-7265 or email rquiroz@dioshpt.org

by Christine Rivers, Chancellor

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ishop Michael G. Duca announces the appointment of Reverend Rothell Price as Vicar General of the Diocese of Shreveport effective August 16, 2010. Reverend David T. Richter will continue full-time in his assignment as Vocations Director for the diocese.

Given on the 2nd day of August, 2010 at the Chancery, Diocese of Shreveport.

Catholic Legislative Advocacy

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he Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops (LCCB) is an agency of the Roman Catholic Bishops of the State of Louisiana. One of the purposes of the Conference is to communicate and interact with local, parish, state and federal bodies. The home page of the LCCB web site (www.laccb. org) customarily tracks bills under consideration by the Louisiana Legislature. The LCCB employs two advocates at the State Capitol during sessions of the Legislature and offers Voter Voice, an electronic advocacy software system. Anyone can sign up for Voter Voice from the LCCB web site. Once registered,

periodic email alerts will be sent regarding legislative bills being tracked. These emails provide a link to talking points to use in an email to your local state representative or senator. The email address of the appropriate legislator is automatically entered based upon your zip code. These emails do have an impact and the legislators often comment about them on the floor of the House or Senate. This system makes it clear that the email sender is a voter in their district. If you are interested in social justice, pro-life or private school issues, you can sign up for Voter Voice at www. laccb.org.

Catholic Schools Nondiscriminatory School Policy

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he Diocese of Shreveport School system re-affirms its non-discriminatory policy on the basis of race, sex, color, national, and ethnic origin in its educational programs, activities, and employment policies in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, and Sections 4.03 (a) and 4.03 (c) Revenue Procedure 75-50.

All students, faculty members and staff, without exception, are admitted to all rights, privileges, and activities generally accorded or made available at the schools which do not discriminate on the basis of

race, sex, color, national, and ethnic origin in the administration of its employment policies, admission policies, scholarship, and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administrated programs.

• St. John Berchmans Cathedral School, Shreveport • Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Academy, Shreveport • St. Joseph School, Shreveport • Loyola College Preparatory, Shreveport • Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe • Our Lady of Fatima, Monroe • St. Frederick High, Monroe

On the Cover: Pablo Ortega and Mike Van Vranken participating in service ministries. (Design by Jessica Rinaudo)

September 2010

Contents

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Diocese Welcomes New Vicar General by Christine Rivers........ 2 Catholic Legislative Advocacy..................................................... 2 Catholic Schools Nondiscriminatory Policy................................. 2 Bishop Michael Duca’s September 2010 Schedule..................... 3 Bishop’s Reflection by Most Reverend Michael G. Duca............ 4-5 Decorum at Mass, pt. 2 by Dianne Rachal.................................. 6 St. Patrick Church in Lake Providence to Celebrate 140 Years by John Mark Willcox.......................................... 6 Second Collections by Fr. David Richter..................................... 7 The Calling Circle by Dr. Betsy Williams..................................... 7 Welcome to PSR! by Dr. Linda Webster...................................... 8

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Diocese of Shreveport Welcomes New Seminarians by Fr. David Richter..........................................10 Economy Down, Volunteerism Up! by John Mark Willcox...........10 Making a Difference

by Kelly Phelan and Jessica Rinaudo.......................................11 Greco Institute Fall Schedule .........................................................15 Hispanic Corner por Rosalba Quiroz........................................... 18 News Briefs by Catholic News Service . ..................................... 19 Around the Diocese............................................................ ....20-21 Diocese of Alexandria & FDLC to Host Liturgy Day....................21 Upcoming Events ........................................................................22

Our Lady of Good Remedy by Kim Long....................................8

40 Days for Life by Emily Nickelson.............................................22

Jesus the Good Shepherd School to Celebrate 50 Years by Fr. Mark Watson............................. ..9

Back to School! .............................................................................. 24

September 2010 Calendar...........................................................23

Bishop Michael Duca’s September Schedule Sept. 4 Mass; St. Ann Church, Ebarb; 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 5 Mass, St. Joseph Church, Zwolle; 11:00 a.m.

Sept. 5 Búsqueda (Search) Retreat Mass; Scottsville Camp & Conference Center, Scottsville, TX; 3:00 p.m.

Sept. 1 Prayer & Support Group for Bishops, Montserrat Jesuit Retreat House, Dallas, TX. Sept. 2 Knights of St. Gregory Mass; St. Michael the Archangel Chapel, Shreveport; 6:00 p.m.

Sept. 3 Friendship Bowl; St. Frederick High School, Monroe; 7:00 p.m.

Sept. 4 Eastern Deanery Priests’ Luncheon; Monroe; 11:30 a.m.

Sept. 4 Mass; St. Joseph Church, Zwolle; 4:00 p.m.

Sept. 23 Ecumenical Gathering in celebration of Sacred Heart Church’s 90th Anniversary; Sacred Heart Church, Rayville; 5:30 p.m.

Sept. 24 St. Catherine Community Center Board Meeting; 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 7 Red Mass; St. Matthew Church, Monroe; 1:00 p.m.

Sept. 25 35th Anniversary Mass; St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 8 Our Lady of Fatima Back to School Mass, Our Lady of Fatima Church, Monroe; 9:00 a.m.

Sept. 26 140th Anniversary Mass; St. Patrick Church, Lake Providence; 10:30 a.m.

Sept. 8 Presbyteral Council Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 1:00 p.m.

Sept. 28 New Orleans Provincial Council Meeting/Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops Meeting; Immaculata Center, Lafayette; 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Sept. 9-10 Gathering of Religious Superiors; Catholic Center Sept. 20-23 2010 Mission Bishops’ Conference; University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary, Mundelein, IL.

Sept. 28-30 Good Leaders, Good Shepherds Program; Wesley Center, Woodworth, LA.

La Reflexión del Obispo por Bishop Michael G. Duca

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n la revista Catholic Connection de este mes encontrarás historias de Católicos en nuestra diócesis que dan su tiempo por medio de servicio activo a los más necesitados. La palabra servicio se usa para describir nuestros actos de caridad Cristiana porque Jesús nos enseña una y otra vez con Sus palabras y acciones que “el Hijo del Hombre no vino a ser servido sino a servir…”

(Mat. 20:28) y que el más grande entre nosotros debe servir a los demás. Ayudar a otros, mostrándoles compasión, preocupándonos por el enfermo y trabajando para construir el Cuerpo de Cristo son solo algunas de las cosas que agradan a Dios y que hay que hacer si tenemos el tiempo. El SERVICIO, el dar nuestro tiempo, nuestro talento y nuestro tesoro para aquellos que lo necesitan es un elemento esencial de lo que significa ser un discípulo de Jesús y la más genuina y verdadera prueba de nuestra fe.

Nuestro viaje espiritual para responder al llamado de Cristo a servir al pobre frecuentemente comienza donde sentimos que deberíamos hacer más, entonces haciéndonos voluntarios en la iglesia podemos ser de mucha ayuda. El ser voluntario es más que nada algo que escogemos y ponemos límites en cuanto nos podemos comprometer. ¡El servicio Cristiano es mucho más que eso!

Si en verdad nos abrimos a ayudar a otros llegará un momento en que nuestro corazón será transformado.

Comenzaremos a preocuparnos personalmente por los que estamos sirviendo, después sentiremos el LLAMADO a involucrarnos más. Uso

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El obispo lee con estudiantes en la escuela de Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Sacramento en Shreveport.

la palabra LLAMADO aquí porque será una invitación verdadera. En este momento sabrás que no es ya tu decisión de ayudar sino que ahora debes responder al llamado de Cristo a servir, no en tus propios términos sino en Sus términos.

Cuando respondemos a este llamado de Cristo nos damos cuenta que debemos cambiar. Vemos que tenemos menos tiempo para nosotros mismos y dejamos algunas cosas que disfrutábamos pero que han sido actividades superficiales y que nos permitirán poder tener el tiempo de servir. También veremos que por la gracia dejaremos ir nuestros egoísmos y tentaciones de pecado. Debemos batallar con la hermosa pero temible invitación del Señor a morir a nosotros mismos para poder liberarnos del ego y amar como Él nos ha llamado a amar. Este acto de servicio nos lleva al centro del Evangelio y nuestra fe se aviva en nosotros. Descubrimos que una vida simple nos libera para ser más atentos a otros y no siempre estar tan envueltos en nuestras propias preocupaciones.

Descubrimos el gozo del servicio y también comenzamos a depender más en la oración para ser más fieles al llamado de servir, no como

escogemos, sino como Dios nos ha llamado a servir. Los que regalan toda una vida al servicio por los más necesitados, que escuchan y aceptan la vocación del sacerdocio o vida religiosa en servicio a la Iglesia no son solo voluntarios, sino que son capturados por el llamado de Jesús a dar sus vidas en servicio. Entienden la escritura que dice “no eres tu quien me escogiste, yo te he escogido a ti.” Jn. 15:16) La sabiduría y profundidad espiritual de este viaje solo puede pasar si dejamos que nuestro Dios amoroso nos dirija y nos abra al servicio de nuestros hermanos y hermanas más necesitados.

Quiero agradecer a toda la gente de la diócesis que son testigos del amor de Cristo cada día de una manera única. Entre más nos abramos cada uno a este llamado de Dios a servir, más poderoso será el testimonio de la Iglesia hacia nuestra fe en Cristo. Yo se que este mes habrá un momento en el que pensarás, “¿será que necesitan ayuda?” o de alguna manera serás llamado a involucrarte un poco más.

Responde al llamado de Cristo que te invita a confiar en su llamado de amor y nos enseña que entre más des, mas recibirás.

Bishop’s Reflection by Bishop Michael G. Duca

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n this month’s Catholic Connection you will find stories of Catholics in our diocese who actively give of their time in service to those in need. The word service is used to describe our acts of Christian charity because Jesus teaches us over and over with His words and actions that “the Son of Man did not come to be Bishop Duca serves at Poor Man's Supper at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church in served but to serve…”(MT. 20:28) Monroe. Proceeds from the event benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy. and that the greatest among us will be the one who serves the rest.

Helping others, showing compassion, longer just your decision to help, but to be faithful to the call to serve, not caring for the sick and working to now you must respond to Christ’s call as we choose, but as God calls us to build up the Body of Christ are not to serve, not on your terms, but now serve. Those who give a lifetime in just nice things to do if we have time, on HIS terms. service to those in need and those SERVICE, giving our time, talent To answer this call from Christ, who listen and accept the vocation and treasure for those in need, is an we find we must change.

We may to the priesthood or religious life in essential element of what it means to find we have less time for ourselves service of the Church are not just be a disciple of Jesus and the truest and we have to let go of some of volunteering, but they are captured test of the genuineness of our faith. the more enjoyable but superficial by the call of Jesus to give their lives Our spiritual journey to answer activities in order to have time to in service. They understand the Christ’s call to serve the poor serve.

We will also be challenged scripture “you have not chosen me, I often begins when we feel that we by grace to let go of our sinful and have chosen you.” (JN. 15:16) should do more, so we volunteer self-centered The wisdom and spiritual depth of at the church temptations. this journey can only happen when to be of help. giving our We must we let our loving God lead and open Volunteering struggle with us to service of our brothers and is mostly and for those the wonderful sisters in need. something we in need, is an essential element of and fearful I want to thank all the people of choose and invitation from the diocese who witness Christ’s we set limits what it means to be a the Lord to die love each day in their unique setting. on how much to our self in The more each one of us opens we commit. and the truest test of the order to free to this call from God to serve, the Christian . ourselves to more powerful will be the witness service is so love as He calls of our Church to our faith in Christ. much more! If us to love.

This act of service leads This month I know there will be we truly open ourselves to helping us to the heart of the Gospel and our a moment when you will think, “I others there will come a moment faith becomes more alive to us.

We wonder if they need some help,” or when our heart will be touched. We discover that a simple life frees us in some way you will be called to will begin to care more personally for to be more attentive to others and get more involved.

Answer the call the ones we are serving, then we will not always so wrapped up in our own of Christ who invites you to trust feel the CALL to get more involved. concerns. his call to love and teaches that the I use the word CALL here because We discover the joy of service and more you give, the more you will it will be a true invitation. In this also begin to depend more on prayer receive. moment you will know that it is no

”...SERVICE, talent treasure

time,

disciple of

Jesus genuineness of our faith.”

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Decorum at Mass, pt. 2

by Dianne Rachal, Director of Worship

St. Patrick Church in Lake Providence to Celebrate 140 Years

by John Mark Willcox, Director of Development

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f I am a master, where is My respect?’ says the LORD of hosts to you.” Mal 1:6 “In the celebration of Mass the faithful form a holy people, a people whom God has made his own, a royal priesthood, . . .They should, moreover, endeavor to make this clear by their deep religious sense and their charity toward brothers and sisters who participate with them in the same celebration.” no. 95 GIRM Charity toward others during the celebration of Mass includes respect for everyone’s worship of God. This liturgical respect is shown by: 1. Dressing in an appropriate and modest manner so as not to distract others.

2. Arriving and being seated in plenty of time before Mass begins in order not to disrupt the liturgy once it has begun. To come late or leave early breaks the very spirit of the assembly.

3. Silencing all electronic devices. No cell phones, MP3 players, pagers or texting during the celebration of Mass.

4. Not chewing gum—this is discourteous to God and others, and violates the fast before receiving Holy Communion.

5. Respecting a period of silence before Mass to allow everyone to transition from secular time to sacred time, and to adopt a prayerful attitude prior to the start of the liturgy.

6. Participating in the entire Mass until after the dismissal and recessional which sends us forth to be Christ’s presence in the world.

7. Availing oneself of the restrooms before or after the celebration of Mass, not during.

8. Exhibiting hospitality to others by moving to the center of the pew.

Remember to practice good Mass Manners. The Eucharist is a communal celebration, not a private devotion. Be mindful and respectful of the members who join together to form the Body of Christ in worship of the Father.

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St. Patrick Church, Lake Providence, LA. (John Mark Willcox)

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he land on the northeastern boundary of our diocese is flat and vast, fringed by the mighty Mississippi and with a floor consisting of the delta’s life-giving nutrient soil. Good soil means good farming and people have been living and farming in East Carroll Parish for a long time. With that in mind it is no wonder the Catholic outpost that is St. Patrick Church has existed for nearly 150 years.

It is a community of Catholics who have seen plenty of history from their doorstep, including a front row seat to the start of U. S. Grant’s famous 1863 Vicksburg Campaign. With Catholic worship services dating back to 1849, the faithful of the area battled the changing currents of the Mississippi and post Civil War conditions until they were finally able to dedicate their newly constructed church to Ireland’s most famous saint in 1870, in honor of the many parishioners of Irish descent at that time.

These early parishioners of St. Patrick fought hard for their Church’s survival, resulting in many generations of Catholics who have sacrificed to maintain a worship community and educate children. A school founded by the

parish operated on and off from the mid 1870’s until 1997. The present church sanctuary was dedicated during the pastorate of the late Msgr. Harry O. Barker in 1976.

Current Pastor Fr. Zacharias Prakuzhy is proud of his parish of 11 years, “This is a celebration of the fidelity and devotion of all those wonderful people, those ‘living stones’ who have supported this church and made it an embodiment of God’s unconditional love. I have been privileged to experience the mutual solidarity and unity of this church family and I pray this celebration will help our community to renew this wonderful heritage bequeathed by past generations.”

Celebration plans call for a Rosary and Mass on Friday afternoon celebrated by Rev. Joe Puthuppally, September 24, 2010, followed by a special 10:30 a.m. anniversary Mass which will be celebrated by Bishop Michael Duca at St. Patrick Church on Sunday, September 26, 2010. Commenting on the occasion Bishop Duca remarked, “This is a remarkable parish full of special people and I am pleased to be a part of this special celebration in recognition of so many years of service to the people of this area.”

Second Collection

by Fr. David Richter Announcement Dates: September 12 & 19 Collection Dates: September 25 & 26 he Black and Indian Mission collection can be traced back to 1884 when the U. S. bishops at the Plenary Council of Baltimore ordered that assistance be given for this great need in our nation. Very soon afterward, the missions gained a strong advocate in the young woman who was the daughter of a wealthy banker named Drexel in Philadelphia. Katharine Drexel, now a canonized saint, petitioned Pope Leo XIII in 1887 to send missionaries to help her cause in the American West. The Pope replied, “Why don’t you become a missionary?” The later Mother Katharine did just that, founding the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in 1891 in New Mexico.

This annual collection brings the hands of Christ to reach out to troubled hearts, to heal those suffering in various ways, and to support the preaching of the Gospel where priests and religious are few. I invite you to take part in this important work by your generous engagement.

On a more personal note, I thank you for your attention and generous response to the needs brought to you by the monthly second collections. After eight years in the office

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of the Vicar General, I am now assigned to devote additional time to vocations work. Fr. Rothell Price, the new Vicar General, will promote second collections in the diocese as one of his duties. He will soon be communicating with you.

Again, thank you for the charity you have exhibited toward those who are in much need.

How well did the diocese do?

Peter’s Pence $ 28,031.67

and their spiritual dimension by many individuals from our diocese

by Dr. Betsy Williams and from outside our diocese. The educational piece will be provided by Isaiah 43:1 - …“I have called you by the University of Dallas, the pastoral name; you are mine.” dimension will be provided by the s a Christian, I find comfort in many individuals who provide services knowing that I have been called throughout our diocese, and the to a journey where I belong spiritual dimension will be provided by and I have the opportunity to answer many spiritual directors and teachers the call to serve. However, when we who will walk with them as they receive a call, and we answer that call, discern the direction of their call. we have the responsibility to prepare The formation of these prayerfully ourselves in different dimensions of eager men is not just an isolated our humanity. We reach out to learn, discernment process. As they to understand, and to allow the spirit to accept the call to explore becoming form us to prepare for servanthood. a permanent deacon, they will be I have been truly blessed with calling upon their past experiences and these opportunities; not just for how these experiences have formed my own personal growth, but to be able to watch others grow and “do service.” One of these “blessed” opportunities is being a part of the Diaconate Formation program that will begin this Fall. It is a great and humbling privilege to be called to work with these prayerfully eager men in their spiritual formation. These men are being called to discern, study, understand, and embrace ministry as Jesus and His disciples did thousands of years earlier. They will be provided the tools to form their intellectual dimension, pastoral dimension,

The Calling Circle

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them as they are today. There will be individuals who have influenced them, particularly in their young spiritual formation. Perhaps this individual is a religion teacher who accepted the call to assist in the understanding of church teaching and the spirituality of God’s love. It is like a circle, a “calling circle;” a person is called to become a religion teacher to assist in the intellectual and spiritual formation of someone who is called to serve the teacher as a pastoral or spiritual leader of the church.

For those of you who are discerning the call to become a permanent deacon, remember you will have the opportunity to learn and grow through the offerings of the University of Dallas, those who walk in pastoral ministries, and spiritual directors and teachers who will guide you in discernment of your ministerial path. As an added gift, the religion teachers have a great opportunity to expand their call by registering for the academic formation of the program.

This offering is a great way of acquiring more knowledge of church teaching and more understanding of the spirituality of the church. Please contact Clary Nash at the Catholic Center for more information, 318-8684441.

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to understand our faith, but each of us needs even more to be valued and included.

The very best classes I’ve observed have some things in common. There is book work, of course, and there is faith sharing. Many excellent catechists can lead group prayer with passion and fervor; sometimes there’s even singing! But the very best catechesis occurs where the PSR volunteers light up as each child comes into the room, greeting the child by name and including that child in whatever activity is going on during the gathering portion of the session.

“Gathering” doesn’t usually fill a large part of any lesson plan. It may seem to be wasted time. With about 30 class meetings each year and maybe 75 minutes per meeting, there just isn’t much time to “get through” the material in the book, to prepare for sacraments, to do special feast celebrations and all of the other busy-ness of class work.

But what good does all of that contentrelated class work do if a child feels unwelcome or confused or rushed?

What if PSR is just another day of school that is a lonely, unhappy experience?

Experienced catechists plan gathering meticulously, spending much more time

doing welcoming activities at the start of the year or whenever a new student joins the group. For example, children should be greeted as they enter the room and be escorted to an activity area that will allow ALL of the children in the classroom to participate as they arrive.

“Escorting” means getting their name, talking to them, walking with them to the activity, and making a place for them at the activity.

This is easy to envision for first and second grade classrooms, but it works just as well for teenagers. Why? They don’t have a choice to sit away from the group or to be physically isolated. You can’t force someone to color or to play a game, but you CAN have them be part of the group in some fashion.

There is nothing sadder than to see a child sitting alone at a table during a class activity because seating is assigned and no one else from that table showed up for PSR. Managing inclusion and deliberately moving children into groups that are welcoming and engaging should be rule #1 for catechists.

Children do not come to PSR to be taught. They come to learn. And it’s important they learn how pleased we are to see them and to welcome them to the faith.

slaves and set them free. To carry out this plan, the Trinitarians needed lots of

by Kim Long, St. Mary of the Pines money. They placed their fundraising efforts under ecently I purchased an ornament the patronage of Mary. of the Blessed Mother and the They were so successful child Jesus. I was taken in by the that, over the centuries, regal image, Mary and Jesus complete the Trinitarians were with crowns and Mary’s cloak a deep able to free thousands of blue and her gown a rich red. I didn’t people and return them recognize the image; none of the titles I safely home. In gratitude knew fit this. I did a little research and for her miraculous found that she is known as Our Lady of assistance, St. John of Good Remedy.

Matha honored Mary The composition is based on the with the title “Our Lady of ancient tradition of Byzantine Catholic Good Remedy.”

Iconography. In the tradition, Mary The Trinitarian religious whose wears a red outer robe symbolizing her primary duties are to worship the humanity, and a blue inner garment, Triune God with a special devotion, symbolizing her sanctity. In the tradition, and aid the needy and those who suffer Jesus wears the opposite - a blue outer by performing works of mercy, have garment for his divinity and a red inner honored the Virgin Mary under the garment for his human nature. title “Mother of Good Remedy” from About 800 years ago Christians were the very beginnings of their order. A being captured and sold into slavery singular love for the Mother of God by the thousands. In 1198, St. John of flourished among these religious orders Matha founded the Trinitarians to go throughout the ages, for she continually to the slave markets, buy the Christian healed the sufferings of her supplicants;

indeed, it still flourishes among them today. The title under which the order venerates Mary perfectly expresses her relationship with us: she is the Mother of Good Remedy. After all, her son, Jesus is the “remedy” for our world.

When in need, for whatever reason but especially where you have had difficulty obtaining help, invoke the aid of Our Lady of Good Remedy.

Catholics have always turned to Mary as our spiritual mother. Especially in these trying times we should pray with the faith of the Trinitarians and St. John Matha to Our Lady of Good Remedy, after all her son is known as the Great Physician. Quite a dynamic duo!

Her feast is celebrated on October 8. We can celebrate this by praying a novena in her honor, attending Mass or making an offering to the Trinitarians, as well as praying to God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Welcome to PSR!

by Dr. Linda Webster, PhD

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s the excitement builds toward the start of a new school year, it’s important that we look to the “welcome” mat as the primary focus of our work as catechists.

Anyone coming to the Church for instruction should be so comfortable, so welcome that they can’t wait to come back. From the pre-K classroom all the way up to every adult catechetical encounter, each participant should be met with personal greetings and heartfelt words of welcome. To be greeted by name and enfolded in the joy of the group meeting together should transcend the content of the meeting.

In other words, we need lesson plans and we need to cover material in order

Our Lady of Good Remedy

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Jesus the Good Shepherd School Celebrates 50 Years

by Fr. Mark Watson. Pastor of Jesus the Good Shepherd Church

Jesus the Good Shepherd School's 1962 Kindergarden graduates.

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his year we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Jesus the Good Shepherd School. As we begin this celebration I have a wonderful sense of thanksgiving for all who brought our school to where we are today. The strength of our school is a tribute to all of the principals, pastors, teachers and staff who have served our families over the last 50 years. I would like to especially thank Lisa Patrick who, for over nine years, has provided excellent leadership for our school.

After careful study Bishop Greco saw the need to establish a church and school on the north side of Monroe.

By official decree this establishment was made final on June 20, 1958. The first Masses of the new parish were held in the auditorium of the Knights of Columbus Hall on Sunday, July 6, 1958. On April 13, 1959 the church purchased a 10 acre tract of land from the Cole Estate. Herbert H. Land was chosen as the architect to design an elementary school to handle six grades and kindergarten, a church to seat at least 350, a rectory to house two priests and a convent for five nuns. Ground breaking ceremonies were held September 13, 1959. The Daughters of the Cross of St. Matthew School and St. Vincent Academy in Shreveport provided the original staff for the school.

On September 1, 1960 classes began with an enrollment of 230 students. On September 11, 1960 the school was dedicated and blessed by Bishop Greco.

Sister Mary Fideles was the first

principal, followed by Sr. Mary Louise Parisy in 1964.

Rev. Dave Dabria was the first pastor of JGS Church and School. He called the purchase of adequate land and the construction of a church, school, rectory and convent all at once by a new parish without a large grant of money an impossible dream.

“At first thought, many agreed but on second thought, after much prayer, evaluation and consideration of all the circumstances, it was considered a worthy and acceptable challenge for one and all. Msgr. Marsh of St. Matthew’s offered to transfer their elementary school and nuns. And within two years of its existence, a church, school, rectory and convent were built on ten acres of land. And just less than eight years later, on May 26, 1968, a gymnasium, library and kindergarten were added and blessed.

Yes, thanks to the vision, generosity and hard work of its parishioners and all concerned, Jesus the Good Shepherd would have a thriving school of its own. God has blessed the parish so much by its school,” said Dabria.

Sr. Maria Smith, D.C. taught fourth grade for five years and sixth grade for two years at JGS School, and was principal from 1980-1997. Teaching children whose parents she had taught and having students return as teachers gave her a feeling of joy and family.

She remembered the love parents and grandparents had for the sisters. The students thought school was a good place to be as they felt welcomed, loved, secure and respected. They

showed a determination to excel in academics, sports and religious activities. Mass attendance on Fridays, the Crowning of Mary in May and the Advent wreath ceremony were events the staff, pupils and parents anticipated and reflected upon for years afterwards.

Charlynn Leehy was a student, and is now a teacher at the school.

Charlynn wrote, “Jesus the Good Shepherd School holds a very special place in my heart. I attended JGS from first grade until my graduation in 1977. Coming back to JGS as a teacher has allowed me to reconnect with my childhood memories in an unusual and special way. In fact, I teach third grade in the same classroom that I occupied as a third grader. By having the opportunity to return to JGS as a teacher, I have had a unique opportunity to witness many positive changes in our school.

As a result, JGS has experienced tremendous growth in its student body and we continue to provide a strong Catholic education for our students.”

Father Moore has most shaped both our parish and school. Its families have become his family. In 1973 Fr. Moore became the pastor of JGS Church and School. His love and dedication to both are shown in the amount of time he spends at the church and school.

“It’s good to have the children around. I like to watch them grow up,” said Fr. Moore. He also spoke about the decrease in class size from 35 students per class to 25 students and the change from one to two sections per grade level. As a result of time spent at the school, Fr. Moore continues to have an important place in the lives of the students.

Throughout this school year JGS Church and School will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the school. The celebration began at the 11:00 am Mass on August 29. Bishop Duca was the chief celebrant. In honor of the 50th Anniversary, a Memory Garden is being constructed outside of the new school building.

May God continue to bless our principal, faculty, staff, students, parents and myself as we continue to spiritually, academically and physically shape the lives of JGS students.

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Diocese of Shreveport Welcomes New Seminarians

by Fr. David Richter, Director of Vocations

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am very happy to announce that our Diocese of Shreveport has two new seminarians entering their studies for the priesthood. They are Jerry Kohlman, who is a student at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans and Jacob Wells, who is studying at St. Joseph Seminary College in St. Benedict, LA. Jerry Kohlman, 49, is a graduate of Jesuit/Loyola in Shreveport. He brings a variety of work experience with him including horse training, sales, and a founding partner in a swimming pool installation company.

He has been an active parishioner at Mary, Queen of Peace Church in south Bossier City. Jerry has been a lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, instructor in RCIA, sacristan and usher. In the first years of the seminary, Jerry will concentrate

on philosophy courses as a preparation for theology. He is in his first year of pre-theology.

Jacob Wells, 19, was raised first in Shreveport but now lives in Texas.

Both sides of his family are from Louisiana and he wants to make the Diocese of Shreveport his future home as a priest. Jacob, like our other seminarians, Jerry Kohlman Jacob Wells has a strong Catholic background. He also has an uncle who is a priest, for our diocese, both attending Notre Fr. John Pardue. Jacob participated Dame Seminary. in sports and scouting while in high As you pray for vocations, which school. He has taken part in the are very much needed in our diocese, life of the church parish, having please pray also for our individual both attended and taught religious seminarians. It is not an easy decision education classes, taken part in social to answer a call to the priesthood ministry and has been an altar server. today; they need our spiritual support Jacob has taken a few college courses. to resist the voices of self-seeking He is a first year college seminary and discouragement in the light of student. all the obstacles they face before Seminarians John Bosco Nyrienda ordination. Make a commitment to and Jerry Daigle, Jr. continue to study pray daily for them.

Economy Down, Volunteerism Up!

unemployment.

2009 saw 27 percent of the American populace volunteer over 8 billion

by John Mark Willcox, hours of service to Director of Development charitable causes in his summer, The Chronicle of the United States. This Philanthropy published an article staggering number of interest that documents a of volunteer hours is rapid rise in the number of Americans equivalent to nearly $170 who volunteer to assist causes they billion in fiscal value to believe in. The story was based on a those charities which Volunteer serves guests coffee at New York soup kitchen. report by the Corporation for National benefitted from our (CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz) and Community Service and it flies in inherent giving nature. ranks number one in the nation in the face of conventional wisdom which It is also important to organ donors through driver’s license has for years dictated that community note that the vast majority of these activities suffer during an economic volunteers also gave monetarily to the registration. Over 64% of Louisiana drivers have registered for organ downturn. causes they believe in. donation, a number twice the national Remarkably this last year has Geographically, the American seen the most dramatic jump in Mid-West led the way in volunteerism average and a testament to the giving nature of the Bayou State!

American volunteer activity since with a high average of around 35% Despite dark news about the state 2003, confirming the fact that people of residents giving volunteer time to of our economy, it remains comforting of our nation remain willing to charitable causes. The Ohio Valley to know the giving nature of the assist charitable causes, even when followed with slightly lower numbers American psyche seems to remain it demands even more personal and Louisiana joined the Deep South not only intact, but on the rise. For sacrifice. Part of this increase can be with approximately 25% participation more details about this study visit attributed to jobless people who serve levels in volunteerism. Naturally, the the Corporation for National and volunteer hours to gain valuable work Church remains a top beneficiary of Community Service’s website at experience and that too can be seen volunteer efforts across the nation. www.nationalservice.gov. as a wonderful pro-active solution to Interestingly in Louisiana, our state

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10 11 Catholic Connection September 2010

Making a Difference Locals take strides to make a difference in their communities

by Kelly Phelan and Jessica Rinaudo

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o not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” So says Hebrews 13:16, and Catholics throughout the Diocese of Shreveport take these words to heart and put them into practice in their daily lives. The Catholic Connection sent out an inquiry about people who make a difference in the lives of others, and the response was overwhelming. Here, we’ve profiled just a few of the many special people who make life better for those around them.

Except that they share a common faith, they’re a very diverse group that includes a former educator, students, mothers and fathers from different walks of life. What unites them is a desire to benefit their respective parishes, spread the Catholic faith, positively impact others with their ministries and encourage everyone to lend their hands in these good works.

Catholicism has a long history of sacrifice and service.

Catholic Relief Services helps over 130 million people in more than 100 countries and territories across the globe. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul numbers about 950,000 in some 132 countries worldwide. And more than 1,700 agencies, institutions and organizations make up the Catholic Charities network, which is responsible for everything from advocacy to financial support to disaster response.

If you’re interested in becoming involved in any of the ministries, projects or missions you read about here, please contact your church office or the Catholic Center at (318) 868-4441.

Mike Van Vranken

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St. Joseph Church Shreveport

hen he was in eighth grade, Mike Van Vranken felt God call him during a silent retreat.

“I had one of the best days of my life. And I knew that day I wanted to do Church work,” said Van Vranken.

That call was realized in 2003, when Mike began searching for ways to improve his religious education. After talking to Fr. Pat Madden, Mike was directed to the University of Dallas.

Through their School of Ministry, he was able to eventually obtain a Masters Degree in Theological Studies.

Inspired by his education, Van Vranken realized his call was to teach others. The more he meditated on teaching, the more Mike began to think of the small Church he grew up in that doesn’t have a pastor or any educational programs. Mike decided he would teach to any one who would listen, but he especially wanted to focus on these small parishes.

Mike got in touch with Fr. Pat Madden and the Greco Institute and became a professor. Teaching everything from Old and New Testament to Sacraments and the Theology of Paul, Mike found a way to help educate Catholics. In addition to his Greco teaching, Mike has also given parish missions and spoken to groups on the importance of Stewardship.

“What I want to do is mainly for Catholics, but I also want to be available to people who aren’t Catholic that don’t know who we are,” said Van Vranken. To further this mission of teaching, Mike has set up a ministry corporation.

His gift of teaching has touched the lives of many people.

At one mission Mike gave, one man in particular reached out to him. “A man came up and sat next to me. I was in the back pew and he started crying and he started telling me the issues going on in his life. And it made me realize this isn’t just a hobby, this is real and there are real people who are going to be touched and I have to make sure I remember that,” said Van Vranken.

Mike has continued to see his teaching light a fire in others.

He hopes that others are instilled with the same “itch” to keep learning he feels.

Being with people and educating them has left its mark on Mike. “I enjoy what I’m doing, but that isn’t why I’m doing it. I’m doing it because people have need and people are lonely, people are heartbroken, people are hurting and people are unemployed and they’re looking for something to fill that void. And it’s God and it can only be God,” said Mike. “And I’m going to have the opportunity to bring that to people. It’s very humbling.”

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n advocate of youth and music ministry, Pablo Ortega shares his musical talents throughout the Diocese of Shreveport to bring the Hispanic community together. Currently an Engineering student at Louisiana Tech in Ruston, Pablo and his sister Andrea have worked hard during their three years in the Diocese of Shreveport.

Pablo Ortega lived in Mexico and Arkansas before moving to Ruston to attend Louisiana Tech.

Ortega was quick to find ways Pablo Ortega s to connect with the local young, St. Thomas Aquina Catholic Hispanic community when Ruston he arrived in the diocese.

“He wanted to know what kind of Hispanic programs we had for the youth,” said Rosalba Quiroz, Director of Hispanic Ministries.

“When he saw we did not offer much for youth in Spanish, he started a choir in Ruston. Then he invited us to go to Arkansas and see if we could bring the youth program 'Búsqueda' (Search) to our diocese.”

Ortega has continued spreading his love for God and music throughout the diocese.

“He and his siblings, an older sister and a younger brother go to our parishes with Hispanic presence and help in strengthening the choir if there is one, or start one if there is not one already,”

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here’s that story about the man walking by the poor man lying by his door, day after day and never seeing him,” said John Bradford, Society of St. Vincent de Paul president at the Cathedral. “I have learned to see and understand people in need. You can’t help but be more compassionate.”

John Bradford’s introduction to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul came in 1999 during his RCIA class.

During a presentation on the Society, Bradford was struck John Bradford by how much the Society’s approach made sense.

Cathedral of SJB “You try to help people Shreveport help themselves, rather than depending on the government to do it or something else.

It's a one-on-one contact, a person-to-person thing and that appealed to me,” said Bradford.

Now the president of his parish conference, Bradford is in charge of a number of things, including group motivation and organization. Over the years, he has gone with other Society members to visit the homes of the poor, help pay bills and work to get people back on their feet.

Bradford said the primary mission of the Cathedral society is to respond to requests, most of which come through a city-wide help line. While this approach has been successful, it is also very daunting as there are not always enough volunteers to go around. “We can’t respond this afternoon to a call this morning, most of the time,” said Bradford. “Our people all are fully 12 13 Catholic Connection September 2010

said Quiroz.

This effort has met with great success, as evidenced at Christ the King Church in Bossier City. There Pablo and his siblings started a program called “Caminando las tardes con Jesus” (Walking in the Evenings with Jesus) that meets every week. Their goal is to have this program at every parish.

Ortega was encouraged to share his faith with others starting at a young age.

“My family is what started me in my ministry,” said Ortega. “Since I was a child I remember my whole family helping in the Church and always trying to strengthen their faith.”

He has since seen that music can help young people strengthen their own faith.

“Some of the positive impacts that I’ve seen my ministry make is to see God act through music,” said Ortega. “I’ve seen several adolescents open their heart because of a song they liked, after that, the change is amazing. God acts through the music he lets me play.”

And he believes that his music ministry will help bolster the faith and enthusiasm of Catholic youth.

“I’ve heard it said that the youth are the future of the Catholic Church,” said Ortega. “I think that we’re not the future but the present. The youth have all the energy and enthusiasm to do something amazing for our faith. We just need the right tools.”

employed at their own jobs. We do what we do in our spare time.”

But the spare time of a few has made a huge improvement in the lives of many. While most requests are small, ranging from help getting power back on, to help with the next rent payment, the Cathedral Vincentians have taken on the occasional big case.

“Our biggest challenge in the last year was something we had never ever done because we didn’t have the man power or the means,” said Bradford. “But we got involved with a man who was disabled, couldn’t work and was being evicted and had nowhere to go. His family had written him off and he was going to be under a bridge.”

The Cathedral Vincentians felt like they couldn’t abandon the man, and over the course of six months, they were able to find him temporary shelter, help him appear in court and receive his disability judgment, and eventually find permanent housing. This incident was tough on the resources of the Cathedral’s Society, but Bradford was glad they were able to help.

“He’s fine now, and that’s the beauty of it,” said Bradford. “We helped him through the process that he could never really have completed on his own.”

Bradford is quick to emphasize the important roles of all the members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. He is constantly amazed by their work and unswerving commitment to help others help themselves. “Everybody in St. Vincent de Paul works hard,” said Bradford. “We’ve got seven or eight groups in Shreveport and three in Bossier. There are many of those guys who work harder than I do.”

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hen St. Catherine Church in Noble, LA, closed five years ago, Rose Procell and her family began attending St. Joseph Church, Zwolle with Father Tim Hurd. Right away, Hurd asked her to get involved in some areas of the church that were in need of extra hands, and Procell jumped right ll e c ro P se in. Ever since, when she o R h rc sees something that hu C h St. Josep needs doing, she doesn’t Zwolle wait for someone to ask her; she just gets busy working.

Her former pastor, Father Ken Williams, said, “You can name it, and Rose has done it!” Procell said, “That’s all the Lord asks of you, is just to be good to one another and to help one another.”

Retired from working with handicapped children, Procell now devotes most of her time to church service, particularly with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the international Roman Catholic volunteer organization dedicated to overcoming poverty. She said, “Every second Tuesday, we stock groceries, and every third Tuesday, we hand groceries out. We always have over 200 families, [including] a lot of elderly. I love helping elderly people. All this extra food, it’s just a great help to them.”

Procell also belongs to the Council of Catholic Women (CCW), a group that responds to the needs of others, especially their churches, with prayer and action. With them, she cleans the church each week and before special events.

At St. Joseph, many of the female parishioners organize themselves into five “circles,” groups that serve at funerals, clean the church and hold monthly bingo fundraisers.

Procell is a member of St. Helen’s Circle, and she cherishes the opportunity to help her fellow Catholics at some of the most difficult times in their lives. “Every funeral, [we prepare] a great big meal for the family,” she said, “and it helps them out a lot.”

Though her duties (she is also a Eucharistic Minister) come with a lot of hard work, Procell rises to any occasion when she sees an opportunity to serve. She credits Fr. Hurd and Fr. Williams with encouraging her to get involved in her church and the diocese in these capacities. “Father Ken has inspired me so much,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

Jo Ann Crone Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe

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bout a year ago, the Catholic Connection spotlighted JoAnn Crone’s work with the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy in Monroe, the only free pharmacy north of Alexandria and east of Shreveport. In her interview, Crone said she felt God call her to open a pharmacy to serve the uninsured, underinsured and working poor, so that’s exactly what she did.

Crone still hears God’s call to help those less fortunate, and He’s calling her to more opportunities than ever before.

In addition to her ongoing work with the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy, she’s also involved in a program that helps the children of prisoners and their caregivers. She said, “A lot of people ask us why we don’t send Easter baskets to Angola, but there are plenty of people who need our help right here in Monroe.”

The group, comprised of parishioners from Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, mentors, comforts, tutors, plays with and provides for the children of incarcerated parents while helping their guardians – usually grandparents or great-grandparents – provide for their physical wellbeing.

Crone told the story of one elderly woman in Monroe who has 19 people living in her home, 14 children and five adults.

One of the woman’s great-grandchildren, a girl with whom Crone developed a special friendship, has both a mother and a grandmother who are in prison. For the child’s birthday, Crone took her to get a manicure and a pedicure.

One of their projects also involves building bunk beds and providing mattresses and covers for the children. Recently, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana nominated Crone for their Angel Award, the prize for which is $10,000 for the winner to spend on him- or herself. “When I found out about that, I wanted to win so bad!” Crone said. “Not to spend it on myself, but to buy more bedding!”

A member of Jesus the Good Shepherd Church for 30 years, Crone recently finished packing 200 backpacks for schoolchildren in Monroe, and we’re certain she’ll find many more ways to share her gift of service in the years to come.

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orn in Opelousas, LA, Shirley Henderson grew up in Holy Ghost Catholic Church. She moved to Grambling in 1949 to accept a teaching position for which her employers decided she was qualified even though she’d had only two years of college.

At that time, she started attending St. Benedict the Black Church. After she graduated in 1953, she returned to Grambling permanently and officially joined the church, thus making her their second-oldest member with almost 60 years of membership.

Henderson views her service as a matter of course, not a sacrifice. “We were a small congregation and still are, and everybody had to do something,” she said. “We knew that it needed to be done and just fell in.” She sewed aprons and crocheted and embroidered items to sell at the church fair to raise money. She also joined the Catholic Circle, a group of volunteers who served the church in a myriad of ways.

Henderson, who taught in a laboratory elementary school

on Grambling’s campus until she retired in 1996, belongs to several organizations in the community that promote education. In nominating her for inclusion in this article, the staff at St. Benedict the Black called her “an outstanding educator who still reaches out to students by tutoring some at her home after school. Her…contributions are immeasurable.”

Asked how she thinks her efforts might help spread the Catholic faith, Henderson said, “[They] show an unselfishness and that we’re living out what our church teaches, which is helping others in more ways Shirley Henderson than one, whether they’re h Catholic or not.”

St. Benedict Churc After her many years g lin b m Gra of service to the church, Henderson isn’t shy about asking her fellow parishioners to roll up their sleeves and get involved. “What we have tried to do is find out what a person does well and make use of the talents a person has,” she said.

"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:16

J

eanette Kennedy, fondly known as “Ms. Jeanette,” has become a reliable presence at St. John the Baptist Church in Many. A transplant from Gautier, Mississippi following Hurricane Katrina, Ms. Jeanette has settled in as a fixture of parish life, despite her age and health problems.

“Whether she is sick or doesn't feel well does not matter, Mrs. Kennedy volunteers to help with everything,” said Shirley Rivers, “She's in her 80's, never complains, attends Mass daily, Jeanette Kennedy and is an inspiration to us all.” t St. John the Baptis Each year, Ms. Jeanette works with RCIA students as a Many teacher’s helper, passing out books, answering questions and teaching prayers.

“It does me good as much as it does the children,” said Ms. Jeanette. “I go to RCIA class and I’ve been doing that for several years because I’m still learning. It seems like each year I learn a little more from these children’s lessons.”

Ms. Jeanette also serves at the parish’s Vacation Bible School, working in the kitchen to prepare snacks for the attendees.

“I get a few things in there with them and if it’s nothing but

14 15 Catholic Connection September 2010

washing dishes, that’s ok, just as long as I’m there to help,” said Ms. Jeanette.

One of the most important ministries Ms. Jeannette feels called to is visiting and serving shut-ins. She has three people she visits on a regular basis. During her visits, she brings Communion.

“It’s rewarding to help give somebody communion or take somebody communion who otherwise wouldn’t be able to get it.

It’s not me, it’s the Holy Spirit that leads me,” said Ms. Jeanette.

Ms. Jeannette said those she visits are happy people, and she knows the visits make a difference to them. Because she doesn’t have a husband or children to take care of at home, Ms. Jeanette said it’s easy and a joy for her to make these regular visits.

Quick to dismiss any praise for herself, Ms. Jeanette thanks God for her motivation. “I get the pleasure from it, but I know also that it’s not me. If it wasn’t for the Holy Spirit, I couldn’t do that. So it just makes you feel closer to your brothers and sisters and also closer to God too. He gets all the credit as far as I’m concerned. I’m just His feet and His mouth,” said Ms. Jeanette.

In addition to her roles in RCIA, Vacation Bible School and shut-in ministry, she also serves as a Eucharistic minister, lector and member of the Ladies Altar Society.

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16 17 Catholic Connection September 2010

17 16

Hispanic Corner por Rosalba Quiroz

Todos Construimos el Futuro uando servimos al prójimo, aún al más pequeño, especialmente al más pequeño, le servimos a Jesús pues Él se hace presente en el mundo en cada uno de nosotros, en el más pequeño así como en el más grande.

Este mes la diócesis menciona a personas que hacen una diferencia ofreciendo sus servicios a beneficio del prójimo. Personas que construyen un mejor futuro para la iglesia y para el mundo.

A todas las personas que en el pasado han trabajado en nuestra diócesis para que ahora tengamos un ministerio fuerte y un futuro lleno de esperanzas les enviamos un sincero agradecimiento y a todos los que en el presente ponen sus dones al servicio del prójimo ¡ánimo, sigan sembrando! que Dios que conoce el fondo de su corazón los premiará a ustedes y a sus generaciones.

Cuando pensé en nombrar a alguien en particular me fue difícil escoger a una sola persona que regala su tiempo, esfuerzo, oraciones y recursos a beneficio del prójimo; me sentí mal de pensar que tenía que dejar fuera a muchas personas que merecen también reconocimiento público. Por eso, a todos ustedes los adjunto en un solo nombre el del Sr. Francisco (Pancho) Trejo. El Señor Francisco (Pancho) Trejo es uno de muchos feligreses que hacen una diferencia en la iglesia. Con su humildad, buen humor y plena disposición de ayuda el Sr. Trejo es un

ejemplo a seguir. me siento parte de Recuerden que este crecimiento. Sé no importa la que hemos traído y cantidad que seguimos trayendo demos sino con al norte de Luisiana qué cantidad de una gran riqueza amor la damos. con nuestra cultura, Esto es lo nuestra expresión que comparte de fe y nuestras el Sr. Trejo: raíces, las mismas “Yo comencé a que ahora también trabajar en el ya están echando ministerio porque raíces”. me invitaron ya Pancho visita que aun siendo con frecuencia católico toda a los niños mi vida casi no hospitalizados, participaba. Sin apoya eventos embargo, cuando parroquiales y Pancho Trejo vi el esfuerzo diocesanos y está de la iglesia y la gran necesidad de dispuesto a dar apoyo en lo que ayuda, sentí que yo podía hacer una se necesite. Disfruta participar de diferencia; me siento orgulloso de lo clases religiosas, retiros y en muchas mucho que hemos avanzado en los es él mismo quien nos prepara los últimos diez años, al ver todos los alimentos. Gracias Pancho y a todos servicios que ofrece la diócesis en los voluntarios de nuestro ministerio nuestro idioma. No me arrepiento de porque “juntos construimos el Reino haber comenzado a ayudar porque de Jesús”.

Misas

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

Juanita Ibarra Tel: 318-872-5390

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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 Mansfield: St. Joseph 305 Jefferson Street, Mansfield 2do

Calendario Diocesano del Mes de Septiembre 1 Reunión de Directores Diocesanos con el Obispo, Centro Católico.

3-5 Retiro Juvenil Búsqueda, Scottsville, TX 17 Reunión de los directores de Ministerio Hispano del estado de Luisiana. Centro Católico.

22 Sesión de entrenamiento para mantener a nuestros hijos seguros, Parroquia de Cristo Rey 6 p.m.

28-30 Los Sacerdotes de la diócesis estarán en su clase de Buenos Pastores, Buenos Líderes.

Minden: St. Paul 410 Fincher Road, Minden Viernes 7:00 p.m.

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

Feliciano y Rosa Alviso Martinez Tel: 318-428-2137

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 West Monroe: St. Paschal 711 N 7th Street, W. Monroe Domingo 2:30 p.m.

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 September 2010

News Briefs by Catholic News Service

Church Agencies Step Up Relief Work as Pakistan Struggles With Flood

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A woman carries 10-year-old Rose Michel in Leogane, Haiti. The girl lost both her legs when the orphanage she was living in collapsed in the Jan. 12 earthquake.

(CNS file photo/Paul Jeffrey)

Knights to Supply Prosthetics to Injured Haitian Children

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ASHINGTON (CNS) -- The estimated 800 Haitian children who lost an arm or a leg because of the country’s violent earthquake Jan. 12 will get prosthetic limbs and therapy courtesy of the Knights of Columbus. The effort, called Hope for Haiti’s Children, was first announced by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson as he gave his annual report Aug. 3 during the organization’s convention in Washington. More details of the two-year program were announced at a Washington news conference Aug. 4. Estimated to cost at least $1 million, the Knights are partnering with the University of Miami’s Project Medishare for Haiti to make the prosthetic devices available. Each child will receive three prosthetics and all necessary therapy during the two-year period. Earlier this year, the Knights teamed up with the California-based American Wheelchair Mission to deliver more than 1,000 wheelchairs to Haiti for people who suffered crushing injuries in the quake. The wheelchairs were donated to patients at a field hospital at the Port-au-Prince airport operated by the University of Miami.

USCCB Issues Guidelines for Use of Social Media

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ASHINGTON (CNS) -- The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a set of guidelines for using social media, especially as social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter continue to gain in popularity. “Social media are the fastest growing form of communication in the United States, especially among youth and young adults,” the guidelines say. “Our church cannot ignore it, but at the same time we must engage social media in a manner that is safe, responsible and civil.” Said Helen Osman, USCCB secretary for communications, in a July 19 interview with Catholic News Service: “My hope is that they’ll be a useful resource to people, especially to dioceses and parishes that are interested in using social media.” The guidelines, which Osman said were posted on the USCCB’s website in early July, can be accessed by going to www.usccb. org/comm/social-media-guidelines.shtml. “The church can use social media to encourage respect, dialogue, and honest relationships -- in other words, ‘true friendship,’” said the guidelines, quoting from Pope Benedict XVI’s 2010 World Communications Day message. “To do so requires us to approach social media as powerful means of evangelization and to consider the church’s role in providing a Christian perspective on digital literacy.” The guidelines point to visibility, community and accountability as three principal areas where the church can make a positive mark in social media.

ANGALORE, India (CNS) -- Church charities in Pakistan stepped up their efforts Aug. 12 to distribute vitally needed relief supplies to some of the millions of people affected by the worst flood in the South Asian nation’s history. The response gained momentum as Pope Benedict XVI expressed his condolences in a telegram to Archbishop Lawrence Saldanha of Lahore, head of the Pakistan bishops’ conference.

“The Holy Father commends the deceased to the Almighty” and “prays for all involved in providing assistance to the victims,” the pope said in his message. Cooking equipment, hygiene kits and bedding were being delivered Aug. 11 to severely hit areas, but workers said devastating conditions were hampering the efforts of relief workers. “Access to a lot of the affected areas is still impossible, and it’s hard to organize distribution amid the panic,” said John Joseph of Caritas Islamabad-Rawalpindi. He spoke in the compound of Holy Name Church in Nowshehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where distribution began after prayers and blessings from Father Amir Yaqub, the parish priest. Caritas Internationalis, the Vatican-based umbrella agency for national Catholic charities, launched an appeal Aug. 12 asking member agencies for $5.5 million to fund Catholic relief efforts in Pakistan over the next three months.

“The situation grows increasingly desperate,” the appeal said, adding that more than 1,600 people had died and about 14 million people were directly affected by the flooding.

Man leads donkey through floodwaters in Pakistan.(CNS photo/Akhtar Soomro, Reuters)

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Around the Diocese

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1 3

4 1. Susan Skidmore Made First Profession of Vows

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usan Skidmore made her First Profession of Vows with the School Sisters of Notre Dame community on July 31. What a blessing to know that our prayers have helped Susan along her journey. However, the journey is far from over and Sister Susan will continue to need our prayers.

During the August 3 Vocation Prayer Service at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, Susan shared her story.

Pictured left to right: Fr. Al Jost, Susan Skidmore, Fr. Matthew Long and Fr. Mark Watson.

2. Region V Stewardship Meeting

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irectors of Stewardship and Development from nine various dioceses located in Louisiana,

20 21 Catholic Connection September 2010

Mississippi and Tennessee spent the last week of July meeting at the Catholic Center in Shreveport.

Presenters on stewardship included Mike Van Vranken.

3. Karen Dill Recognized for Service on Vocations Board

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oyola College Prep Assistant Principal Karen Dill receives an acrylic memento for the almost 10 years she spent as a chairwoman and member of the Church Vocations Board. Holding the memento with her is Fr. David Richter, Director of Church Vocations. Karen was also a frequent volunteer for the screening committee set up to extensively interview candidates for the seminary. Her education, experience, and insight have been much valued. She received the memento on the August 4 memorial

of St. John Vianney, patron saint of priests.

4. Antioch Youth Group Enjoys Bayou Bash in Baton Rouge

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ntioch, the youth group at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Monroe, recently returned from an overnight trip to Baton Rouge called “Bayou Bash.� This event was an opportunity for youth to go to Blue Bayou Water Park. The following morning, Antioch attended Mass at the Cathedral of St. Joseph. Fr. Paul Counce, the pastor of the Cathedral, gave a brief tour and answered questions before Mass began.

Most Rev. Robert Muench, Bishop of Baton Rouge, celebrated Mass, mentioning Antioch and our diocese during his homily. Bishop Muench also posed for photos with the group

Diocese of Alexandria and the FDLC to Host Liturgy Day

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6 Msgr. Andrew G. Varga

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7 and cracked a few jokes too. In all, 30 participants helped make Bayou Bash a success.

as immigration reform and ways to reach out to the Catholic Hispanic community.

5. Students Interview Bishop Michael Duca

7. St. Jude Youth Attended Steubenville on the Bayou

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yan Raburn and Will Robichioux interviewed Bishop Michael Duca at St. Joseph School in honor of his second anniversary as bishop of the diocese. The interviews were done through the school’s TV station KJOE.

6. Louisiana Hispanic Leaders Meet

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n August 17, Hispanic Ministry leaders from across the state gathered for a meeting with priests and Bishop Duca at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. During this quarterly meeting, directors discuss issues affecting their ministy, such

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t. Jude Church in Bossier City is thrilled to report a record breaking 58 youth attended this summer’s Steubeunville on the Bayou Youth conference. There they gathered with thousands of other young Catholics on fire for their faith to celebrate, pray, learn, praise and attend Mass every single day of the conference.

Many youth experienced Eucharistic Adoration for the first time, which was a powerful experience at Steubenville. As one youth said, “I wish I could live every day, or at least every weekend, like the Steubenville weekend.”

n October 9, the Diocese of Alexandria, in conjunction with the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions, will host a Liturgy Day. This meeting will follow the 2010 National Meeting of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions, Oct. 4-8.

Liturgy Day will feature a keynote address by Msgr. Andrew G. Varga, who will speak on how those who attend Mass participate in the liturgy.

Additionally, the day will feature three workshops, all of which will provide information on the new translation of the Roman Missal.

Featured topics will include, “What’s the New Roman Missal All About?” “The New Roman Missal: What Does It Have to Do with Me as a Catechist?” and “Liturgical Music and the New Missal Translations: Challenges, Opportunities and Resources.”

Exhibits will also provide resources to assist in preparing for the implementation of the third edition of the Roman Missal.

Registration is $35 before September 15, and $50 after.

Additionally, a Seminar for Priests and Diocesan Leaders is being offered October 4-5 on “Welcoming the New Roman Missal.” Fee is $125. (www.usccb.org/romanmissal/) For registration forms, contact Dianne Rachal at 318-868-4441 or drachal@dioshpt.org.

For more information on this event, contact the FDLC National Office at 202-635-6990 or nationaloffice@fdlc.org 21 20

Upcoming Events SEPTEMBER 21: POOR MAN'S SUPPER The Church of Jesus the Good Shepherd will host a Poor Man’s Supper to benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy, which has been open 10 years and has given out $8.1 million in prescription medication to those in need. This much needed community service is largely funded each year by the Poor Man’s Supper.

Tickets are $10. The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. For tickets or more information, call 318-381-9670 or stop by the church office.

SEPTEMBER 23: ECUMENICAL GATHERING AT SACRED HEART, RAYVILLE Sacred Heart Church is

40 Days for Life

hosting an Ecumenical Gathering as part of their 90th anniversary celebration. The focus will be on spirituality and building relationships.

Guest speakers will include Bishop Michael Duca, Jerome Vascocu, Dr. Georgia Ineichen, Chief Willie Robinson and Mayor Lynn Lewis.

The event will take place in Flynn Hall at Sacred Heart Church at 6:00 p.m.

RSVP to Laure Burnette 318-728-2494.

SEPTEMBER 25: ST. MARY OF THE PINES 35TH ANNIVERSARY St. Mary of the Pines Church will celebrate the 35th year of laying the cornerstone in Vandegaer Hall formally establishing St. Mary’s as a parish. Bishop Michael Duca will celebrate Mass at 4:30 p.m. and bless and rededicate the entire

Through my experience counseling women facing crisis pregnancies, I have learned the desperate need for a woman to be loved and supported in he first Saturday of every month her critical moment of decision. Our for the past eight years, faithful prayerful presence outside abortion members of VITA, St. Joseph’s clinics is a sign of encouragement and pro-life ministry, have gathered to hope for women tempted to believe pray outside Hope Medical Group for the false promise that abortion is a Women, Shreveport’s abortion clinic. solution to an unplanned pregnancy.

Calling upon our Lord to bring an end And our presence can save lives, as to the destruction of innocent lives campaign volunteers have reported and to comfort those facing crisis some women are looking for a sign pregnancies, VITA members’ prayerful from God not to have an abortion. presence brings God’s love to this Abby, the former director of place of unspeakable suffering and Planned Parenthood in College sorrow. Their unwavering dedication Station, TX, left her job during the and steadfast faith should inspire us all. fall 2009 campaign after witnessing This fall, from September 22 an ultrasound-guided abortion. to October 31, Christians of all Knowing she would find love and denominations in our community will support, Abby turned to local prounite with others in hundreds of cities life leaders for help. Now a pro-life in our nation and abroad in prayer for advocate, Abby speaks for 40 Days an end to abortion during the 40 Days for Life, encouraging volunteers to for Life campaign. Paralleling Biblical pray for those working in the abortion history and calling on God’s power to industry. transform our world through 40-day You can get involved this fall periods, the campaign involves 40 from September 22 to October 31 days of prayer and fasting, 40 days of by committing to pray and fast for peaceful vigil outside Hope Medical an end to abortion, participating Group for Women, and 40 days of in the peaceful prayer vigil, and community outreach. More than 2,800 spreading the word about 40 Days lives have been saved and women for Life. Visit the campaign website spared the heartache of abortion at www.40DaysForLifeSB.com for through the compassionate response further details and to find out how you of 40 Days for Life participants during can share God’s love with those who previous campaigns. need it most this fall.

by Emily Nickelson, 40 Days for Life Shreveport-Bossier

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22 23 Catholic Connection September 2010

facility which God has granted to us.

Everyone is welcome. We especially invite any charter members of the parish to join with us in celebrating our anniversary!

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

Contact the Church Office, 318-865-3581.

OCTOBER 16: ST. PIUS REDEDICATION St. Pius X Church in Shreveport will have the dedication of its new sanctuary at 10:00 a.m. with Bishop Michael Duca. Reception will follow. For more information, call 318222-2165.

First Annual

Bishop’s Pro-Life Banquet will be held on Respect Life Sunday, October 3rd, 7:15 PM at St. Joseph Church Family Life Center 211 Atlantic Avenue Shreveport, LA Speaker is Bishop Michael G. Duca To make reservations, please call the St. Joseph Church Office, telephone 318-865-3581, or email the diocese at chancellorsoffice@ dioshpt.org. A donation of $30 is requested to support pro-life ministry. For more information contact Roxie Tabor, phone 318773-1027, or email roxietabor@ bellsouth.net. Please join in celebrating the Shreveport Diocese Pro-Life Focus.

SEPTEMBER 2010 SUNDAY

MONDAY

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30

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6 LABOR DAY Catholic Center and Catholic Schools Closed

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

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7

8

9

Red Mass, St. Presbyteral Matthew Church, Council Meeting, Monroe, 1pm Catholic Center, 1pm

Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Center, 12pm Gathering of The Nativity of the Religious Superiors, Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Center St. Peter Claver, priest

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2nd Collection: Black and Indian Missions 140th Anniversary Mass; St. Patrick Church, 10:30am

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The Exaltation of Saint John Chrysostom, bishop the Holy Cross and doctor of the Church

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Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, priest and martyr, and Saint Paul Ching Hasang, martyr, and their companions, martyrs

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Saint Vincent de Paul, priest

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Poor Man's Supper, Jesus the Good Shepherd Church, 6pm

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Saint Matthew, apostle and evangelist

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Our Lady of Sorrows Saint Cornelius, pope and martyr, and Saint Cyprian, bishop and martyr

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Ecumenical Gathering for Sacred Heart Church, Rayville's 90th Anniversary, 5:30pm

Photo: Poor Man's Supper at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church.

FRIDAY

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Saint Gregory the Great, pope and doctor of the Church

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Hispanic Ministry First BĂşsqueda Retreat, Scottsville, TX Eastern Deanery Priests Luncheon, Monroe, 11:30am

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Deadline for the October Catholic Connection Gathering of Religious Superiors, Catholic Center

Saint Robert Bellarmine, bishop and doctor of the Church

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Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, priest

Good Leaders, Good Shepherds, Woodworth, LA Saint Michael, Saint Saint Jerome, priest

SATURDAY

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2nd Collection: Black and Indian Missions 35th Anniversary Mass; St. Mary of the Pines Church, 4:30pm

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Saint Wenceslaus, Gabriel, and Saint and doctor of the martyr; Saint Raphael, archangels Church Lawrence Ruiz, martyr, & his companions, martyrs

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DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave.

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Shreveport, LA 71104

Fairfield

Back to School!

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c ult y spe a k s t o f a in k n a R l il B Dr. n o lic S ch o o ls o h t a C f o f f a t and s ing .

Digit a l Le a r n

Scho ol re presen tativ es we re gi ve n cand les re presen tin g th e Diocese of Alexandr ia's 100t h Anni ve rs ar y.

24 Catholic Connection September 2010

efore school starts each year, faculty and staff from Catholic schools in the diocese gather together for a time of learning and preparation for the upcoming year. This year Dr. Bill Rankin spoke to the group on “A New Vision of Digital Learning.”

Faculty and staff were also presented with service awards.

Earlier in the summer, principals and teachers gathered at the Catholic Center for a technology meeting.

There they learned more about operating new technology items like flip cameras for use in the classroom.

to e pre se n te d r e w s d r a f Aw f or ye a rs o f f a t s d n a io n . f ac ult y o lic e duc at h t a C in e ic se r v

ache rs le ar ne d St. Jo se ph Scho ol te eras du ri ng a ho w to use fli p cam mee ti ng . summer te ch no lo gy

Te ache rs and pr inci pa ls gath ered over th e summer to le ar n ab ou t ne w te ch no lo gy.