Catholic Connection December 2018

Connection The Catholic

Vol. 28 No. 5 December 2018

CONTENTS

16

20

18

19

5 FEATURES 5

Administering in a Climate of Transition and Church Crisis

by Fr. Peter Mangum

16 O Antiphons

by Kim Long

11 DOMESTIC CHURCH

Keep Christ at the Center of Your Celebrations

by Katie Sciba

13 NAVIGATING THE FAITH

December Second Collections

by Fr. Rothell Price

COLUMNS

8

15 VOCATIONS VIEW

9

The Immaculate Conception

by Fr. Matthew Long

14 FROM THE POPE

“You Shall Not Bear False Witness” from the Vatican Press Office Serving in a Parish

by Jeb Key

by Ryan Smith, Deacon Andrew Thomas and Dr. Cheryl White

22 Catholic Charities Announces New Development Director

22 Save the Date: Gala to Honor

Msgr. Carson LaCaze

by Randy Tiller

23 Year End Giving

by John Mark Willcox

25 HISPANIC NEWS

Do You Allow Incarnation?

by Mike Van Vranken

LIBRARY NOTES

24 KIDS’ CONNECTION

Seguimos en Oración por un

Nuevo Obispo para nuestra Diócesis

por Rosalba Quiroz

NEWS

26 School News

19 Father Lombard Celebrates 65

28 Around the Diocese

by Kate Rhea

10 FAITHFUL FOOD

21 Shreveport 1873: No Greater Love

Philanthropist

by Tiffany Olah

12 SECOND COLLECTIONS

18 Find Harmony This

Holiday Season

by Kelly Phelan Powell

MIKE’S MEDITATIONS

20 Fitzgerald Named Outstanding

It’s Fruitcake Weather

by Kim Long

2 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

O Antiphons

Years of Priestly Ministry

by John Mark Willcox

30 December Calendar

Advent

Reconciliation Services

Christ the King Parish

Wed., December 5

6:00 p.m.

Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish

Thurs., December 6

6:00 p.m.

Cathedral of St. John Berchmans

Mon., December 10

5:30 p.m.

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Tues., December 11

6:30 p.m.

St. Pius X Parish

Wed., December 12

6:30 p.m.

Mary, Queen of Peace Parish

Wed., December 12

6:00 p.m.

St. Mary of the Pines Parish

Thurs., December 13 6:30 p.m.

St. Joseph Parish, Shreveport Mon., December 17

6:30 p.m.

St. Jude Parish

Tues., December 18

6:30 p.m.

Holy Trinity Parish

Wed., December 19

6:00 p.m.

Sacred Heart Church, Shreveport Thurs., December 20

6:30 p.m.

On the Cover

Connection The Catholic

Publisher The Diocese of Shreveport Editor Jessica Rinaudo Contributors Jeb Key Kim Long Fr. Matthew Long Fr. Peter Mangum Tiffany Olah Kelly Phelan Powell Fr. Rothell Price Rosalba Quiroz

Kate Rhea Katie Sciba Ryan Smith Andrew Thomas Randy Tiller Mike Van Vranken Dr. Cheryl White John Mark Willcox

Editorial Board Lisa Cooper Kim Long Fr. Matthew Long Dianne Rachal Melina Sanchez Randy Tiller Deacon Mike Whitehead John Mark Willcox Mission Statement The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Diocesan Stewardship Appeal; mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport. Our Mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic Faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our Church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and diocesan faith community.

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

Our cover features art by 13-year-old St. Joseph School student and artist, Genevieve Carmody. She was this year�s winner of the Diocese of Shreveport Christmas card contest. The diocese selected 10 finalists from well over 100 submissions. The winner was chosen by popular vote on the diocesan Facebook page. Genevieve’s submission received well over 500 votes. Thank you to everyone who participated in this contest, and congratulations Genevieve!

TWITTER @CathConnect

FACEBOOK facebook.com/ dioceseofshreveport

INSTAGRAM @CatholicConnection

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

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

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

DECEMBER 2018 3

grow.

and

germinate

to

earth

the

on

present

good

of

seed

every

lead

will

love

His

sure:

is

Lord

the

of

victory

The

pain

The

perpetuated.

and

up

covered

being

their

of

possibility

the

prevent

to

also

but

happening,

from

situations

such

prevent

to

able

culture

a

create

to

spared

be

must

effort

no

future,

the

to

ahead

Looking

sufficient.

be

ever

will

done

harm

the

repair

to

seek

to

and

pardon

beg

to

effort

no

past,

the

to

back

Looking

alike.

nonbelievers

and

believers

of

community

larger

the

in

and

members

family

their

in

also

but

victims,

the

among

primarily

powerlessness,

and

pain

of

wounds

deep

inflict

that

Crimes

persons.

consecrated

and

clerics

of

number

significant

a

by

perpetrated

conscience

of

abuse

the

and

power

of

abuse

the

abuse,

sexual

to

due

minors

many

by

endured

suffering

the

more

once

acknowledge

I

as

heart

my

in

echo

forcefully

Paul

Saint

of

words

These

12:26).

Cor

(1

it”

with

together

suffer

all

suffers,

member

one

If

Administering in a Climate of Transition and Church Crisis

by Very Rev. Peter B. Mangum, Diocesan Administrator

I

on the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and explaining parts of was standing at the corner of Peacock Lane and Southgates the Mass, was quickly shelved for a future date. I urgently needed in Leicester, UK, having just visited the recently excavated my parishioners to hear, not from the media, but from me, their burial site of King Richard III (found underneath a parking pastor, of my disgust related to this horrifying sex abuse crisis the lot) when I learned via email on June 26, 2018, of the news Church was facing, yet again, and on of the impending transfer of Bishop the cover ups by many bishops.

Michael Duca to Baton Rouge.

The transfer of our bishop, the loss (Receiving significant news has a way of my associate and friend, the grand of imprinting the time and place on jury report, the news surrounding one’s consciousness). I knew the 10 Archbishop McCarrick, the explosive priests of the diocese that form our letter of the former nuncio, and my College of Consultors would need to urgent homily: this was the context select a diocesan administrator to run in which I was chosen to administer the diocese until the arrival of a new our diocese. It was as if the water bishop, our third for the Diocese of had reached boiling point and I was Shreveport. As a matter of fact, from thrown in. the time of the retirement of Bishop Within the week of my acceptance Friend until the announcement of of this position, the USCCB informed Bishop Duca, we were without a me of two November meetings I needed bishop for 17 months. This inter to calendar: the USCCB General regnum is a time without any major Assembly in Baltimore of this year, and innovations meant to tie up any loose the November ad limina meetings in ends and to prepare the diocese for our Rome of 2019, in case no new bishop next Shepherd. Little did I know that Diocesan Administrator, Fr. Peter Mangum, at had been appointed by that time. I also that task would soon fall to me. the diocesan Prayer Service for Reparation. learned that as a diocesan administrator, On my way home, while in the I would have the same vote as any bishop present. I was given Atlanta airport, Terminal D Gate 26, I learned of the death of a password to access the BishopsOnly website, and that’s when Msgr. Carson LaCaze, a second date and place stamped on my hundreds of emails and letters flooded my inbox and mailbox, memory. A few days later, I preached the funeral homily for the mostly to prepare me for the historical, monumental vote to take priest who gave me First Holy Communion, who was my pastor at my first priest assignment at St. Mary the Pines Parish, and for place at the November gathering of this country’s bishops (and whom I served as pastor the last 12 years of his ministry and life. those equivalent to them in law, like diocesan administrators).

As I prepared for the meeting, security concerns began Only three weeks later we learned that Archbishop McCarrick, to mount. Three times the number of media outlets were already removed from public ministry for credible allegations of credentialed to cover this momentous meeting; the world would sexual abuse, had resigned from the College of Cardinals – the be watching this historical event. first time such a thing had happened in the Catholic Church The conversation during my first evening of the meeting since 1927. That was July 27, and I heard the news as I was centered on one thing only – the vote of the century: on sitting at my desk in my Cathedral office. The grand jury report from Pennsylvania investigating sexual abuse of minors by priests “Standards of Episcopal Conduct” and the proposal to set up a “Special Commission for Review of Complaints Against was made public shortly thereafter, on August 14.

Bishops.” I participated in a two-and-a-half hour long dinner I vividly recall Bishop Duca sitting in the cathedra, installed presentation and discussion for new bishops specifically on the as the sixth Bishop of Baton Rouge on August 24 at 2:35pm, Charter for the Protection of Children and Young Adults, given by a significant date as the College of Consultors of Shreveport needed to meet within eight days of that event to elect a diocesan the professionals of the USCCB and the National Review Board.

Others bishops were in their respective committee meetings, administrator. That same evening, an 11- page bombshell of a letter from the former apostolic nuncio, Archbishop Viganò, was many having begun two days earlier, participating in plenty of behind the scenes meetings and activities. released, alleging the cover-up of the activities of Archbishop The first day of the General Assembly was set: we would take McCarrick and ultimately asking for the resignation of Pope care of some formalities then enter the Day of Prayer, hearing Francis. what would be very moving presentations by two victims of The fifth of a series of five homilies based on John, chapter 6, 4 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

grow.

and

germinate

to

earth

the

on

present

good

of

seed

every

lead

will

love

His

sure:

is

Lord

the

of

victory

The

pain

The

perpetuated.

and

up

covered

being

their

of

possibility

the

prevent

to

also

but

happening,

from

situations

such

prevent

to

able

culture

a

create

to

spared

be

must

effort

no

future,

the

to

ahead

Looking

sufficient.

be

ever

will

done

harm

the

repair

to

seek

to

and

pardon

beg

to

effort

no

past,

the

to

back

Looking

alike.

nonbelievers

and

believers

of

community

larger

the

in

and

members

family

their

in

also

but

victims,

the

among

primarily

powerlessness,

and

pain

of

wounds

deep

inflict

that

Crimes

persons.

consecrated

and

clerics

of

number

significant

a

by

perpetrated

conscience

of

abuse

the

and

power

of

abuse

the

abuse,

sexual

to

due

minors

many

by

endured

suffering

the

more

once

acknowledge

I

as

heart

my

in

echo

forcefully

Paul

Saint

of

words

These

12:26).

Cor

(1

it”

with

together

suffer

all

suffers,

member

one

If

the bishops were very aware that the world outside was livid! sexual abuse by priests, as well as talks related to the call to Over the next two days, bishop after bishop expressed grave bishops to shepherd after the Heart of the Good Shepherd. concern, on the assembly floor and in interviews outside, desiring Everything would culminate with the celebration of the Holy to get a strong message to the Vatican of the urgency of reform Eucharist, with the most providential, unbelievably apropos and needed action regarding Archbishop McCarrick. Everyone of readings to be proclaimed worldwide: Titus’ exhortation knows that the stakes for the February meeting have been raised on a bishop “as God's steward… blameless, not arrogant, … and must result in universal, global action. temperate, just, holy, and self-controlled… [called] to exhort In his closing statement, Cardinal DiNardo said: “Brothers, with sound doctrine…” And Jesus telling His disciples: "Things I opened the meeting expressing some disappointment. I that cause sin will inevitably occur, but woe to the one through whom they occur… If your brother sins, rebuke him… And the end it with hope… that the Church be purified and that our efforts bear fruit… We leave this place committed to taking the Apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith.’ The Lord replied, strongest possible actions at the earliest possible moment. We will ‘If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to do so in communion with the Universal this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey ... Jesus never claimed the Church. Moving forward in concert with the Church around the world will make you.’” Archbishop Hebda was sure to gates of hell would not the Church in the United States stronger, give a great homily. and will make the global Church Chimes rang to get us all to our encroach on the Church; stronger. But our hope for true and seats for the prompt beginning of the only that they would never deep reform ultimately lies in more than General Assembly. First, we prayed, excellent systems, as essential as these are. commemorating the feast of a bishop prevail against it.

It requires holiness: the deeply held martyred for his tirelessly laboring conviction of the truths of the Gospel, and the eager readiness for the unity of the Church, St. Josaphat. Then came the special announcement from the Holy See, delivered by the clearly rattled to be transformed by those truths in all aspects of life.”

Even in this disappointment and pain, the Church is the president of the USCCB: “At the insistence of the Holy See” the only one founded by Jesus Christ, reflecting for us all the glory American bishops would have to delay the vote on the proposed of Creation, yet all the corruption of the Fall. The light of truth action items on the agenda for some time, until after the always shines, and no darkness can overcome it. With the long February 2019 Vatican summit of all the presidents of bishops view afforded by history, the Church has deeply experienced that conferences worldwide. This watershed moment in the life of Jesus never claimed the gates of hell would not encroach on the the Church was now delayed, for the apparent fear that this one Church; only that they would never prevail against it. I will bishops’ conferences taking such bold and needed steps could never - in any way - minimize the present pain and crisis, but this affect the whole Church. is not new as we know who prowls about this world. Yet in every I wanted to slam my fist down on the table! Time and place indelibly stamped on my consciousness, yet again. What was up? age, God raises up reformers to challenge evil, and this time we inhabit is no different.

Does Rome not recognize the urgency of the moment with our Being in the thick of things these past months has already people crying out for action? One bishop near me said it felt “like affected the way I pray. I am grateful for the support I have a punch in the gut.” Even the cardinal leading us said he was received from the priests of our diocese as well as many lay deeply disappointed by the news he had received the day before. people. As one wrote from Monroe, during the final day of Another said: “If Francis wanted to unite us, he just found the the General Assembly: “You did not choose the Church abuse way to do it” – through common anger and disappointment. scandal. But you were chosen to face it.” I face it for and with all Catholics are angry and losing patience. I know my parishioners are. In the midst of the meeting, several texted their in our diocese. I minister, not in a Church I would prefer, but frustration: “The Holy Father’s record on this was weak in Chile, in the Church as I find it. I have not lost the sense of outrage at the abuse crisis and cover-ups, nor do I wish that for anyone. and then in Honduras, and now in the United States. This is a We must be about real reform in the Church as we find her bit like telling the paramedics to stand aside until a real doctor in our individual parishes. We must take seriously Christ’s call can arrive at the scene.” to holiness, starting with our bishops and priests and indeed Another simply wrote: “Unforced error” later writing, everyone! Jesus Christ truly is the Word made flesh, the splendor “The crisis will decimate the Church in the United States for of the Father, the One sent to save us and give us Himself in the generations to come if the episcopacy does not immediately take decisive action. Even the most faithful Catholics will not support Eucharist and His transforming, purifying grace in and through the Church as He founded. an institution that accommodates and protects sexual predators.

One of the sexual abuse victims who earlier addressed the I will not.” conference, summed up her experience saying: “A surprising A third texted: “The bishops don’t realize how impatient aspect for me when speaking at the Conference was how utterly and disgusted guys like me are. It’s a fine line before we are pained the bishops are about Church-wide suffering over abuse.” lost.” There was the clear sense from parishioners that nothing There is no doubting that. • meaningful will come from Baltimore or Rome in February. All DECEMBER 2018 5

Administrando Durante Transición y Crisis de la Iglesia Por el Padre Peter Magnum, Administrador Diocesano

M

ientras estaba parado en la esquina de las calles Peacock Lane y Southgates in Leicester, UK, habiendo apenas visitado la tumba recientemente excavada del Rey Richard III (que se encuentra bajo un estacionamiento) recibí la noticia por medio de un correo electrónico el 26 de junio del 2018, que se iba el Obispo Michael Duca para Baton Rouge. (recibir una noticia tan significativa hace que se recuerde el lugar y la hora en que se recibió). Yo sabía que los 10 sacerdotes que forman el Colegio de Consultores en la diócesis necesitarían seleccionar un Administrador Diocesano que se encargara de la diócesis hasta la llegada de un nuevo obispo, nuestro tercer obispo para la Diócesis de Shreveport. De hecho, en la partida del obispo Friend hasta el anuncio del Obispo Duca, 17 meses estuvimos sin obispo. Este llamado inter regnum es un tiempo sin grandes innovaciones donde solo se continúa con el trabajo que existe y se prepara la diócesis para el siguiente Pastor. No me imaginaba que ese cargo pronto caería sobre mí.

De regreso a casa, en la Sala 26 de la Terminal D del aeropuerto de Atlanta, me enteré de la muerte del Monseñor Carson LaCaze, una segunda fecha y lugar firmemente estampada en mi memoria.

Unos días después, prediqué la homilía en el funeral del sacerdote que dio mi Primera Comunión, quien fue mi pastor y primer sacerdote al trabajar en la parroquia de Santa María De Los Pinos, y para quien fui también pastor por los últimos 12 años de su vida ministerial.

Tres semanas más tarde supimos que el Arzobispo McCarrick, quien ya había sido removido de su ministerio público por creíbles presunciones de abuso sexual, renunciaba del Colegio de Cardenales – algo que no pasaba en la iglesia desde 1927. Para entonces ya era el 27 de julio y escuché las noticias cuando estaba en mi escritorio en la oficina de la Catedral. El gran jurado de Pennsylvania que investigaba el abuso sexual a menores por sacerdotes, hizo público el reporte el 14 de agosto.

Recuerdo vivamente la instalación del Obispo Duca como el sexto obispo en la cátedra de Baton Rouge el 24 de agosto a las 2:35p.m., una fecha significativa al mismo tiempo que el Colegio de Consultores de Shreveport necesitaba reunirse ocho días después de ese evento para seleccionar al Administrador Diocesano. Esa misma tarde, el nuncio apostólico anterior, el Arzobispo Viganò publicaba como una bomba explosiva una carta de 11 páginas, sobre el encubrimiento de las actividades del Arzobizpo McCarrick, donde se pedía hasta la resignación del papa Francisco.

La quinta de una serie de cinco homilías basadas en el capítulo 6 de Juan, sobre el sacramento de la Santa Eucaristía explicando las partes de la Misa que llevábamos en la catedral, rápidamente fue postergada. Necesitaba urgentemente que mis fieles escucharan, no por los medios de comunicación, sino por mi mismo, su pastor, sobre mi repugnancia en relación a la crisis horrenda de abusos sexuales que la Iglesia enfrentaba, y los encubrimientos por muchos obispos.

6 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

Con el cambio de nuestro obispo, la pérdida de mi amigo y asociado sacerdote, el reporte del gran jurado, las noticias del Arzobispo McCarrick, la carta explosiva del nuncio anterior, y mi homilía urgente: fui escogido como administrador de nuestra diócesis bajo estas circunstancias. Pareciera que el agua había alcanzado su punto de hervor y fui arrojado dentro en ella.

Durante la semana que aceptaba esta posición, la oficina de los Obispos de Estados Unidos (USCCB), me informó sobre mi participación en la reunión general en Baltimore en noviembre de este año, y sobre la reunión ad limina en Roma el 2019, en caso que no tengamos nuevo obispo para entonces. También me enteré que como administrador diocesano, tendré el mismo voto que los obispos presentes. Se me dio un código de acceso a la página (website) solo para obispos, y fue entonces cuando cientos de correos y cartas llovían en mi correo electrónico y en la oficina, la mayoría de los cuales me preparaban para el monumental e histórico voto que se llevaría a cabo en noviembre en la reunión de los obispos de la nación (y de aquellos que ante la ley, son equivalentes como lo es un administrador diocesano) Mientras me preparaba para la reunión, la preocupación sobre la seguridad me invadía. Habría tres veces más medios de comunicación para cubrir esta importante reunión; el mundo iba a estar viendo este evento histórico.

La conversación durante mi primera tarde de reunión, se centró en una sola cosa – el voto del siglo: sobre “las Pautas de la Conducta Episcopal” y la propuesta de tener una “Comisión Especial para Revisar las Quejas Contra los Obispos.” Participé en una cena de más de dos horas y media con presentación y dialogo para nuevos obispos específicamente en el Capítulo referente a la Protección para Niños y Jóvenes Adultos, presentada por los profesionales de USCCB y el Consejo Nacional de Revisión. Otros obispos estaban en sus comités y reuniones respectivas y participando en reuniones y actividades privadas que habían comenzado dos días antes.

Se llegó el primer día de la Asamblea General: nos encargaríamos de algunas formalidades y después a entrar en un Día de Oración, escuchando lo que serían presentaciones conmovedoras presentadas por dos víctimas de abuso sexual por sacerdotes, así como pláticas relacionadas al llamado de los obispos de pastorear con el Corazón como el Buen pastor. La cúspide sería la celebración de la Santa Eucaristía, con las lecturas providente e increíblemente apropiadas que fueran proclamadas en el mundo entero: la exhortación de Tito a los obispos sobre “como ser un Administrador de Dios… sin culpa, sin arrogancia…. sin temperamento, justo, santo, y en control de sí mismo. [llamado] a exhortar con la doctrina verdadera…” y Jesús diciéndole a Sus discípulos: “Las cosas que causan pecado inevitablemente ocurrirán, pero ¡Ay! de aquellos que las causan… si tu hermano peca, repréndelo… y los Apóstoles le dijeron al Señor, “Aumenta nuestra fe.” El Señor replicó, “si tuvieran fe del tamaño de una semilla de mostaza, le dirían al un árbol de moras que se arrancara de la raíz y se plantara en el mar, ‘ y este les

obedecería.” El Arzobispo Hebda se aseguró de dar una excelente homilía.

Sonó la campana para tomar nuestros asientos y dar comienzo a la Asamblea General. Primero hicimos oración, conmemorando la fiesta de un obispo que fue mártir por su incansable labor por la unidad de la Iglesia, St. Josafat. Después vino el anuncio especial de Tierra Santa, presidido por el presidente de USCCB: “Ante la insistencia de la Santa Sede” los obispos Americanos quitaron de la agenda el voto que se esperaba para tomar acción y lo aplazaron la agenda por algún momento hasta febrero del 2019 cuando sea la reunión cumbre del Vaticano y todos los presidentes de las conferencias episcopales de todo el mundo. Este momento divisorio en la vida de la Iglesia es atrasado, por el miedo a que éste paso tan importante, valioso, y necesario pueda afectar a toda la Iglesia. ¡Yo quería pegarle a la mesa con mi puño! Pero una vez más pensé en el tiempo y el lugar, pero ¿Qué estaba pasando? ¿Es que Roma no reconoce la urgencia de este momento en que nuestra gente implora que se tome acción? Un obispo cerca de mi dijo qué sintió “como un puñetazo en el estómago.” Aun el cardenal que dirigía este momento dijo que estaba verdaderamente decepcionado por esta noticia que había recibido el día anterior. Otro dijo: “Si Francisco quisiera unirnos, acaba de encontrar la manera de hacerlo” – a través del coraje y la decepción.

Los Católicos están enojados y perdiendo la paciencia. Sé que mis fieles lo están. En medio de esta reunión, varios me mandaron textos sobre su frustración: “El record del Santo Padre en este asunto había sido débil ya en Chile, en Honduras y ahora se repite en Estados Unidos. Es un poco como diciéndole a los paramédicos que se queden a un lado hasta que un verdadero doctor pueda llegar a la escena.

Otro simplemente escribió: “Error espontáneo” después escribió “Esta crisis puede deshacer la Iglesia de los Estados Unidos por futuras generaciones si este episcopado no actúa decisiva e inmediatamente. Aun los católicos más fieles no aguantarán una institución que acomoda y protege a los predadores sexuales. Yo no lo hare.”

Un tercero escribió un texto: “los obispos no se dan cuenta de que al igual que yo, hay muchas personas impacientes y decepcionadas. Es una línea muy fina antes de perdernos.” Había un ambiente claro de que nada significante saldría ni de Baltimore ni de Roma en febrero. ¡Todos los obispos sabían que el mundo afuera estaba enfurecido!

En los siguientes dos días, obispo tras obispo expresó su gran preocupación, en la asamblea y fuera en sus entrevistas, buscando enviar un mensaje fuerte al Vaticano sobre la urgencia de la reforma y la necesidad de acción hacia el Arzobispo McCarrick. Todos sabemos que lo que se espera de la reunión de febrero ya escaló a

mayores y debe tener como resultado la acción universal, global.

En su discurso de cierre, el Cardenal DiNardo dijo: “Hermanos, abrí esta reunión expresando decepción. Sin embargo, termino con esperanza… que la Iglesia sea purificada y que nuestros esfuerzos den fruto… nos vamos de este lugar comprometidos a tomar acción lo más fuerte y lo más pronto posible. Haremos esto en comunión con la Iglesia Universal. Caminando hacia el futuro en sintonía con la iglesia en todo el mundo para asegurar que la iglesia en los Estados Unidos sea más fuerte y que haga también a la Iglesia universal más fuerte. Pro nuestra esperanza para una profunda y verdadera reforma a fin de cuentas esta puesta en sistemas excelentes, tan esenciales como lo son estos mismos. Requiere santidad: la convicción profundidad de las verdades del Evangelio, y la intensa preparación a ser transformada por esas mismas verdades en todos los aspectos de la vida.”

Aun con esta decepción y dolor, la Iglesia es la única fundada por Jesucristo, nos refleja toda la gloria de la Creación, pero así mismo refleja la corrupción de la Caída. La luz de la verdad siempre brilla y no hay obscuridad que pueda vencerla. Como hemos ya visto en la historia, lo que ha experimentado la Iglesia pero Jesus nunca dijo que las puertas del infierno no entrarían en la Iglesia, sino que nunca la vencerían. Nunca – de ninguna manera – disminuye el dolor y la crisis, pero esto no es nuevo pues ya sabemos quién merodea en el mundo. Aun así en cada etapa, Dios levanta reformadores para desafiar el mal, y este caso no es diferente.

Estando más involucrado en estas cosas estos últimos meses ya ha afectado en mi manera de orar. Estoy agradecido por el apoyo que he recibido de los sacerdotes de nuestra diócesis así como de mucha gente laica. Como alguien de Monroe que me escribió, durante el último día de la Asamblea General diciendo: “usted no escogió el escándalo de abuso de la Iglesia, sin embargo fue escogido para afrontarlo.” Lo enfrento junto con toda nuestra diócesis. Estoy desempeñando mi ministerio no en la iglesia como yo quisiera que fuera, sino en la Iglesia así como es. No he perdido el sentido de indignación que tengo por la crisis de abuso y los encubrimientos, tampoco le deseo eso a nadie más. Tenemos que buscar una verdadera reforma en la Iglesia como la encontramos en nuestras parroquias particulares. ¡Debemos tomar seriamente el llamado de Cristo a la santidad, comenzando con nuestros obispos, sacerdotes y todos! Jesucristo es verdaderamente la Palabra hecha carne, el esplendor del Padre, el Enviado para salvarnos y darse Él mismo a nosotros en la Eucaristía y Su gracia transformadora y purificante en y a través de la Iglesia como Él la fundó.

Una de las víctimas de abuso que se presentó en la conferencia, resumió su experiencia diciendo: “un aspecto sorprendente para mí fue cuando hablando en la Conferencia vi cuánto dolor sienten los obispos y toda la Iglesia que también está sufriendo por el abuso.”

De eso no hay duda. • DECEMBER 2018 7

MIKE'S MEDITATIONS

Do You Allow Incarnation?

by Mike Van Vranken

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nfortunately, December is sometimes the only month we talk about Incarnation. I say unfortunately, because as Christians, we have no visible representation of God without Incarnation.

“He is the image of the invisible God, the first born of all creation” Col 1:15. The author of Colossians is attesting that the Son of God, the second person of the Holy Trinity is the image of the invisible God. “For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and invisible, . . . all things were created through him and for him. He is before all things and in Van Vranken him all things hold together” Col 1:16-17. Again, it is very clear these verses are about Christ since the beginning, not just about the birth of Jesus of Nazareth.

But my purpose with this article is not to determine if Incarnation happened 2,000 years ago at the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ become man, or 13.7 billion years ago with the creation of the universe.

Instead, I want to propose the image and reality that Incarnation is present today; present in our lives; present when we allow it.

Meister Eckhart, the 14th century Dominican, taught that Incarnation is always continuing as the “Word” of God (another name for the “Son” of God) and is always seeking to be birthed and expressed in creation – especially birthed in you and me. “In one sermon, Eckhart wondered, Why do we pray? Why do we fast? Why do we do all our works? Why are we baptized? Why (most important of all) did God become man? I would answer, in order that God may be born in the soul . . .” Mysticism and Prophecy by Richard Woods, OP. Can you spend time each day this month reflecting on Incarnation in this sense: That the Son is waiting to be born, made visible and manifested in you on a daily basis, each and every day? Just as the Word was made flesh in Jesus of Nazareth in Bethlehem, and was the physical manifestation of God, are you willing to allow the Word to be made flesh in you as the 8 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

physical manifestation of God every day of your life? Not that you become God, but that you allow Him to be birthed and represented and manifested within you? More from Meister Eckhart on “Christ Continuing to be Incarnated in Us:” “What good is it to me if this eternal birth of the divine Son takes place unceasingly but does not take place within myself?

And, what good is it to me if Mary is full of grace and if I am not also full of grace?

What good is it to me for the Creator to give birth to His Son if I do not also give birth to him in my time and in my culture?

This, then, is the fullness of time; When the Son of God is begotten in us.”

(Meditations with Meister Eckhart, Matthew Fox) My recommendation is to reverently, and with trust in Him, ask God for the grace to open your mind and heart for the desire to give birth to His eternal Son over and over again (a new understanding of being “born again).”

Once you experience that desire, sit with God in the quiet and ask Him to show you ways this Incarnation can take place in you.

Maybe it manifests as a newfound love of those who frustrate you. Maybe it is the birth of extravagant forgiveness for someone in your past – maybe even yourself. It could be a new creation of love for refugees or the poor. Perhaps it evolves as compassion for a family member who has disappointed you. And, like many Christmas surprises, it may be some new way that you can be the physical image of God that you have never dreamed of.

This may all be a very new way to view Incarnation for you. Be gentle with yourself and remember, new perspectives take weeks and even months before they become our normal reality. But when you begin to see Incarnation as part of your daily discipleship, the infant Christ within you will leap “for joy,” and Incarnation will be something you proclaim and experience all year long. • Mike is a spiritual director, author, speaker and teacher. You can contact him at mikevanvranken@comcast.net

LIBRARY NOTES

Explore the Slattery Library

Looking for a good read over the Advent and Christmas holidays?

Check out a book from the Slattery Library inside the Catholic Center in Shreveport! Our vast collection spans across many subjects of faith and includes material for all ages. Librarian Kate Rhea shares some of the library's featured titles and new books that can be borrowed.

Slattery Library News & Notes

Why We’re Catholic

by Trent Horn

Sometimes it helps to have a clear and concise answer to questions Catholics get asked on a regular basis; Trent Horn has assembled a collection of historical and biblical based answers to help Catholics and non-Catholics alike understand the fundamentals of Why We’re Catholic.

Feeding Your Family’s Soul

by Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle

Filled with recipes, prayers, and “reflection questions,” Feeding Your Family’s Soul helps promote productive, spiritual growth during your family’s time together around the dinner table. From examining the commandments to exploring ideals like social justice and moral consciousness, these guided exercises help host fruitful discussions to bring family members closer together in faith.

Three Secrets to Holiness in Marriage

by Dan & Amber DeMatte

This 33 day guide offers a practical set of lessons to help married couples unlock the secrets to “happiness and saintly holiness” in marriage. The virtues taught and reviewed in this retreat-style course will help spouses become the best partners, parents and Catholics they can be.

Everyday Stewardship

by Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS

The back of this book says, “Jesus Christ calls us constantly in our everyday lives through ordinary and sometimes seemingly mundane circumstances.” Everyday Stewardship examines many of those circumstances in short, two page reflections, complete with related scripture verses and “Ideas for Response.” It also contains pages for writing your own notes and reflections.

Slattery Library is open every week day from 9am to 1pm!

Kate Rhea is the Administrative Assistant for the Library and Cemetery, and is available to help patrons research information, search and select reading material, and even host group meetings in the library. With themed displays each month and many newly cataloged materials ready to borrow, our library is revitalized and ready to serve our patrons.

To sign up for the newsletter featuring topical and seasonal collections, information on newly catalogued books, book and movie reviews, information on book clubs, and more, please e-mail Kate at krhea@dioshpt.org.

Visit the Slattery Library Visit the Slattery Library inside the Catholic Center!

The library is open Monday Friday from 9am to 1pm.

3500 Fairfield Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 318-868-4441 DECEMBER 2018 9

FAITHFUL FOOD

It's Fruitcake Weather

by Kim Long

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don’t know many words, which just by their utterance, can take aim at the “Christmas spirit” quite like the word “fruitcake” does.

A word which offers no middle ground, it elicits either love or hate. Over time I admit Long that I grew from hate and disgust at the unidentifiable and unnaturally colored fruit to a genuine fondness for it.

Today my ingredients have been assembled, my recipe smudged with eggs and batter from other years on the kitchen table, and the Saturday after Thanksgiving I ready the scene: Medieval Christmas music, a pre-heated oven, and a large bowl to hold all the elements for this traditional fare. Once mixed and in the oven, I will have a moment to read a little of A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote, one of my favorite stories of all time, and so appropriate since “it’s fruitcake weather” here, too.

I decided a better way to introduce this Christmas staple to my own branch of the family was to put only the ingredients we actually liked. The only fruit are candied cherries, red only, and I add chopped pecans. That was my starter recipe. Over time I have added “just a schoonch” of candied peel and pineapple.

And today, gentle reader, I confess I follow her recipe to the letter.

A few years ago, I decided to enlarge on tradition by making the Irish Christmas cake. I read recipes like people read novels. It sounded, gulp, a lot like fruitcake. In all my research I came across some recipes for a steamed Christmas pudding. It sounded so Dickensian! I followed the recipe to the letter and low and behold it worked. If only my grandmother could see it.

This year, however, I have plans to celebrate my southern roots and my mother. I return to her Orange Slice

10 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

Mama’s Orange Slice Cake

Ingredients: • 1 cup butter (softened real good)* • 2 cups granulated sugar • 4 eggs • ½ cup buttermilk (don’t use sour milk, here splurge on the real thing) • 1 teaspoon baking soda, dissolved in the buttermilk • 3 ½ cups flour, sifted, reserving ½ cup (cake flour is better but if not using it, sift three times) • 1 box dates (buy the chopped ones, just as good) • 1 lb. orange candy slices • 2 cups pecans, chopped (walnuts if you prefer or omit if nuts are disagreeable) • 1 cup frozen coconut, grated, fully thawed (I prefer the canned) • 1 cup of orange juice • 2 cups confectioner’s sugar Directions: 1) Chop the orange slices, dates and pecans. Place in large mixing bowl.

2) Add the ½ cup reserved flour. Toss together until pieces are coated. Add the coconut, toss again to coat. Set aside.

with flour. Mix after each addition, just until incorporated together.

7) Use a large spoon to fold the orange pieces mixture into the batter just until combined.

8) Place batter into a lightly greased and floured tube pan. Place in oven preheated 250F degrees, on center rack.

9) Bake from 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until done. Insert wooden toothpick, if it pulls out clean, cake is done.

10) Remove from oven, set on wire cooling rack.

3) In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar, until smooth. (Don’t rush this step, Kim).

11) Place the orange juice and confectioners’ sugar in a small mixing bowl. Stir until well mixed.

4) Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition just until incorporated.

12) Pour the orange juice and sugar mixture over the cake as soon as you remove cake from oven.

5) Mix the baking soda into the buttermilk. Stir until dissolved.

6) Add flour, alternating with milk, adding portion of flour first, and ending

Cake recipe. My mother played the piano for the Christmas cantata at our church, sewed like a professional, spoke southern and she was good at anything she put her hand to, including this cake. It has the texture of fruitcake with a surprise: it is delicious with no provisos or age distinctions – it is just plain good.

So I shall forgo Dickens for family, and

13) Let stand in pan overnight then unmold cake. * The notes in parenthesis are her’s to me!

candied peel for candy orange slices.

May your Christmas season be merry and bright and may you find time for a cup of coffee or tea and a slice of your favorite Christmas cake! • Kim Long is the Director of Religious Education at St. Mary of the Pines Parish in Shreveport, LA.

DOMESTIC CHURCH

Keep Christ at the Center of Your Celebrations

by Katie Sciba

I

sauntered through the Christmas section of a department store last year, beaming because my heart equates decorations and ornaments with bliss and glee. Ribbons, tiny pine trees and clunky wood signs were everywhere donned with reindeer and messages of “Merry & Bright.” Aisle after aisle overflowed, but it was only on a single, small rack where I found decor relevant to Jesus.

Christmas has been secularized for years, I know, but more than any other year, I felt Sciba deeply bothered. The reality of God coming into the world He created is a more enormous and profound idea than our minds can comprehend. Christmas is the Lord’s birthday, yes, and also the dawn of man’s salvation. I know I’m preaching to the choir when I say we should keep Christ in Christmas, and in case you’re pragmatic like me, here’s a list of ways to do it.

1. Learn Salvation History During Advent

A fantastic way to recognize Jesus in the Christmas season is to spend Advent learning salvation history, and it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds. Get your tree set up for Advent and decorate it with Jesse Tree ornaments. These special ornaments are hung one day at a time leading up to Christmas, and each has a corresponding scriptural passage about the ancestry of Jesus. Complete kits are available online, or you can sort through your own decorations to find ornaments relevant to this time-honoring tradition.

2. Give Catholic Presents

Maybe our kids are weird, but they get all giddy opening clothes as well as toys Christmas morning. We typically get them fun graphic tees featuring superheroes or fairies; but

it occurred to me that our kids would relish showcasing their favorite saints on their clothes; they are, after all, reallife superheroes. Other meaningful Catholic gifts are saint medals, holy water, a blessed crucifix, art for bedrooms or living areas or a rope rosary. Or call your parish and ask for a Mass to be offered for your loved ones - the Mass card will make a perfect stocking stuffer, with out of this world perks!

3. Decorate for Advent

When it comes to big decor trends, the writing’s literally on the wall. We eat up signs with gorgeous lettering, so this year put up “Oh Holy Night” or “Glory to the Newborn King.”

Display your nativity scene, heirloom or Fisher Price, and save the baby Jesus for Christmas Day. LSU fans know purple goes with everything, and it’s conveniently the same liturgical color for Advent! Deck your halls with all the purple and gold you have and you’ll see that your parish will feature the very same colors before Christmas. Trade them in for whites, reds and greens just before the Big Day to give yourself and your family a visual hint that the season has changed.

It’s time to actively underscore Christ in Christmas.

Prepping our hearts with a Jesse Tree and short Bible readings, adding a touch of faith to our gifts and decorating our homes with words joyfully proclaiming Christ’s coming and birth will stir a change within us. Making exterior room for Jesus in our homes will in turn make interior room for Him within our souls. Our experience of Christmas will be happier than ever when we immerse ourselves in the “Reason for the Season.” • Katie Sciba is married to Andrew. Together they have five children. She is the author of thecatholicwife.net.

DECEMBER 2018 11

SECOND COLLECTIONS

December Second Collections

by Father Rothell Price

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RETIREMENT FUND FOR RELIGIOUS Announcement Dates: November 25 & December 2 Collection Dates: December 8 & 9

lease give to those who have given a lifetime.” Your gift provides vital support to our senior Catholic sisters, brothers and religious order priests who have given their all to nourish the faith of Catholics throughout our nation. They have been devoted and vigorous laborers in the Lord’s vineyard alongside diocesan priests and lay leaders.

Your generous and joyful participation in the Retirement Fund for Religious Collection is a Price fitting expression of our gratitude to the Lord, who called these men and women to their religious vocations.

Reach out and touch them in their senior years when their need for assistance is at its height.

While many senior religious, weakened by advanced age and illness need our assistance, others continue to serve in a wide range of volunteer and prayer ministries. You can reward the dedication and hard work they gave in our Catholic Schools, hospitals, numerous social service organizations and advocacy positions. Please give to those who have given a lifetime.

Through the Retirement Fund for Religious Collection, you will free them from worry by ensuring that they will have appropriate medications, medical and nursing care, and more.

Your gift assures that their religious communities are able to make long-term plans for their quality eldercare. Thank you for your participation in the Retirement Fund for Religious Collection on December 8 and 9. May our Lady of Guadalupe,

12 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

in her Immaculate Conception, intercede for you as you lovingly give to those who have given a lifetime. •

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DIOCESAN INFIRM PRIESTS’ FUND Announcement Dates: December 16 & 23 Collection Dates: December 24 & 25

ove. Hope. Joy. Peace. These are the four joyful virtues of the Advent season leading to the great celebration of the Incarnation of our God at Christmas. The name lodged in our hearts is “Emmanuel,” meaning, “God is with us.” The Diocesan Infirm Priests’ Fund Collection is a beautiful spiritual opportunity to tangibly shower love, hope, joy and peace upon our infirm priests. What we do for them, we do in honor of Him who called and graced them for His service. Your joyful participation in this collection is a beautiful Christmas present to the holy Christ child, his Church, and his priest brothers and servants.

Our infirm diocesan priests need us. This collection for their physical and spiritual well-being lasts throughout the new year. The Diocesan Infirm Priests’ Fund collection makes a dignified life possible for these men of God, even within whatever restraints their diminished health imposes on them.

Please think of them generously at the Masses on Christmas Eve and Day, December 24 and 25. Make their days merry and bright through your gift to the Diocesan Infirm Priests’ Fund Collection.

I wish you Advent and Christmas blessings. • Father Rothell Price, Moderator of the Curia, is the Director of Second Collections for the Diocese of Shreveport.

NAVIGATING THE FAITH

The Immaculate Conception

by Fr. Matthew Long

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here are countless images of the Blessed Virgin Mary. No Catholic Church, hospital, school or home is complete without at least one. Her role in our redemption and salvation has always been recognized by the faithful. The Blessed Virgin Mary bears many titles, but the title of Immaculate Conception is the one that was bestowed upon her not by man, but by God. The Immaculate Conception as a Dogma of the Church was not formally pronounced as an infallible teaching by the Pontiff until December 8, 1854. On this date the Apostolic Constitution Ineffabilis Deus (ID) was issued

by Pope Pius IX. A reading of this encyclical indicates that although it was the first formal pronouncement supporting this dogma, the Church’s tradition has always held the Immaculate Conception to be a doctrine of the Church handed down by the Fathers and professed by the faithful in every generation.

The importance of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception can never be underestimated: it is the foundation upon which our belief in the Divinity of Christ rests. Christ is God and he was with the Father from the beginning. As the Creed states, he is “consubstantial with the Father,” which means that Christ is of the same substance as the Father.

We believe that sin or anything unholy cannot be in God’s presence; God cannot be contained in a sinful place. Therefore, in order for Mary to be the Bearer of the Christ, it was necessary that she not be tainted by any sin. Since, all of humanity bore the taint of Original Sin passed down to us by our first parents, Adam and Eve, “before time began, the eternal Father chose and prepared for His only-begotten Son a mother in whom the Son of God would become incarnate and from whom, in the blessed fullness of time,

he would be born into this world.” (ID).

At her conception in the womb of St. Anne, God endowed “her with the abundance of all heavenly gifts poured from the treasury of His divinity that this mother, ever absolutely free of all stain of sin, all fair and perfect, would possess that fullness of holy innocence and sanctity.” (ID). This free gift of grace and privilege granted by God was only possible because of the merits of Jesus Christ.

Under the title of Immaculate Conception, Mary, our mother, is the patroness of our country and of our diocese.

I once visited the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Natchitoches, within it lies the remains of the first Bishop of Natchitoches, Augustus Marie Martin.

Upon the marble slab marking his tomb is his Episcopal Coat of Arms, and at the center of his shield is the symbol of the Immaculate Conception. As I began to read about the Immaculate Conception, I discovered that this same symbol was on the back of the Miraculous Medal. I then obtained some Miraculous Medals for each of our seminarians and the bishop blessed them.

I sent them to each of our seminarians and asked them to pray each morning with me: “O, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.” Therefore all of us were united in our prayer to our patroness to foster a culture of vocations and to be faithful sons of the Church.

I encourage all of you to place your own lives under the Immaculate Conception’s patronage and join me in this prayer for the Church in the Diocese of Shreveport and our nation as all of us work together to reevangelize our world. • *This is an edited version of an article that was originally printed in the December 2012 edition of The Catholic Connection.

Immaculate Conception December 8, 2018 Holy Day of Obligation

D

ecember 8 is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

This year, the Immaculate Conception remains a Holy Day of Obligation, even though December 8 falls on a Saturday.

In general, the Immaculate Conception remains a Holy Day of Obligation, even if December 8 falls either on a Saturday or on a Monday.

This is because Mary, under the title of the Immaculate Conception, is the Patroness of the United States.

In the time frame from Friday, December 7 to Sunday, December 9, we are obligated to attend two separate Masses for two distinct obligations: we are obligated to attend one Mass in order to fulfill our obligation for the Holy Day – the Immaculate Conception, as well as another Mass to fulfill our Sunday obligation – the Second Sunday of Advent. One cannot fulfill both obligations at once by only attending one Mass. It is not a “two-for-one.”

Masses on Friday, December 7 (at 4:00 p.m. or after) through Saturday, December 8 (before 4:00 p.m.) are for the Immaculate Conception. Masses on Saturday, December 8 (at 4:00 p.m. or later) through Sunday, December 9 (all day) are for the Second Sunday of Advent. • DECEMBER 2018 13

FROM THE POPE

Pope Francis General Audience 11/14/18 "You Shall Not Bear False Witness" from the Vatican Press Office

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ear brothers and sisters, good morning!

And this “witness” Jesus gives with his passion, and with his In today’s catechesis we will address the Eighth death. The evangelist Mark narrates that “the centurion, who Word of the Decalogue: “You shall not bear false stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, witness against your neighbor.” he said, ‘Truly this man was God’s Son (15.39). Yes, because This commandment - says the Catechism He was consistent, He was consistent: with that way of dying, – “forbids misrepresenting the truth in our Jesus manifests the Father, His merciful and faithful love. relations with others” (2464). Living in nonTruth finds its full realization in the very person of Jesus authentic communications is serious because (cf. Jn 14: 6), in his way of living and dying, fruit of his it prevents relationships, and therefore relationship with the Father. This existence as children of prevents love. Where there is a lie there is God, He, risen, also gives it to us by sending the Holy Spirit, Pope Francis no love, there cannot be love. And when we who is the Spirit of truth, who attests to our hearts that God talk about communication between people is our Father (cf. Rom 8:16). we mean not only words, but also gestures, attitudes, even In every action man, people, affirm or deny this truth. silences and absences. A person speaks with everything he From small everyday situations to the most demanding is and what he does. We are all in communication, always. choices. But it is the same logic, always: what parents and We all live by communicating and we are constantly poised grandparents teach us when they tell us not to lie. between truth and falsehood.

Let us ask ourselves: what truth do the works of us But what does it mean to tell the truth? Does it mean Christians attest, our words, and our choices? Everyone can being honest? Or exact? In reality, this is not enough, because ask themselves: am I a witness to the truth, or am I more one can be sincerely mistaken, or one can be precise in or less a liar disguised as a truthful person? Everyone is detail but not grasp the meaning of the whole. Sometimes asked. Christians are not exceptional men and women. We we justify ourselves by saying, are, however, children of the “But I said what I felt!” Yes, Everyone can ask themselves: am I heavenly Father, who is good but you have rendered your and does not disappoint us, a witness to truth, or am I more and puts in His heart the love point of view absolute. Or: “I only told the truth!”. for brothers. This truth is not or less a liar disguised as a Maybe, but you’ve revealed expressed so much in speech, truthful person? some personal or confidential it is a way of existing, a way of facts. How often chatter life and is seen in every single destroys communion as a result of inappropriateness or lack act (cf. James 2:18). This man is a true man, that woman of delicacy! Or rather, gossip kills, and this was said by the is a real woman: you see. But why, if you do not open your apostle James in his Letter. Gossips are people who kill: they mouth? But he behaves like a true person, she behaves like a kill others, because the tongue kills like a knife. Be careful! true person. He tells the truth, he acts with the truth. A good A gossip is a terrorist, because with his tongue he throws way for us to live. a bomb and then goes away calmly, but the thing that the Truth is the marvellous revelation of God, of his Father’s bomb says destroys the reputation of others. Do not forget: face, it is His boundless love. This truth corresponds to to gossip is to kill. human reason but overcomes it infinitely, because it is a gift But then: what is the truth? This is the question asked that has descended upon earth and was incarnated in the

by Pilate, just as Jesus, in front of him, fulfilled the eighth crucified and risen Christ; it is made visible by those who commandment (cf. Jn 18: 38). In fact, the words “You shall belong to Him and shows His same attitudes. not bear false witness against your neighbor” belong to the Not to bear false witness means to live as a child of God, forensic language. The Gospels culminate in the account of who never, never denies Himself, never tells lies; to live as the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus; and this is the children of God, letting the great truth emerge in every act: story of a trial, of the execution of the sentence and of an that God is Father and we can trust Him. I trust God: this unheard-of consequence. is the great truth. From our trust in God, who is a Father When asked by Pilate, Jesus says: “the reason I was born and loves me, loves us, my truth is born, being truthful and and came into the world is to testify to the truth” (Jn 18:37). not a liar. •

14 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

VOCATIONS VIEW

Serving in a Parish

by Jeb Key, Seminarian

SEMINARIAN BURSES THANKS TO OUR RECENT DONORS

• (006) Marcia & Robert Moffatt ($1,985) • (006) S.G. & Erin Cassiere ($1,000) • (006) Dr. & Mrs. M. Ragan Green, Jr. ($500) • (014) John G. Semmes ($100) COMPLETED BURSES

• (001) Fr. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse ($10,000) • (010) Memory of Rita Scott from the John Scott Family ($10,000) • (012) Jack E. Caplis, Jr., Memorial Burse ($10,000) • (013) Mary Evans Caplis Burse ($10,000) INCOMPLETE BURSES

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hat an incredible year it has been for me. I am now beginning my fourth year as a seminarian for the great Diocese of Shreveport and I cannot believe how fast the time has flown by. It seems like only yesterday that Bishop Michael Duca accepted me as a seminarian. I have learned and grown a great deal in the past three years as your seminarian, and I continue to grow in the love of God each and every day.

Since beginning this journey, I have felt the desire to serve the people of our diocese grow in my heart. I am happy to say that this year, I have been following this desire a little more immediately by serving as a seminarian in the parish of St. Joseph in Shreveport. For this entire school year, I will remain at St. Joseph’s in lieu of returning for theological studies at Notre Dame Seminary.

During this period of time, I will be serving Masses and assisting our priests in providing the Sacraments to the people of Shreveport. I will also be able to take a more active part of the liturgical year of our diocese. My close proximity to St. Joseph School, as well as our other Catholic schools, will allow me to hopefully assist and be a part of these communities in any way that I can.

Most importantly however, this

• (001) Fr. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse #2 ($500)

experience allows me to really think and pray more deeply with my vocation. In almost every job, you spend a certain period of time studying and learning under a more experienced person. This apprenticeship for me is teaching me the in’s and out’s of priesthood and parish life. So far I have been working with RCIA, high-school and middleschool youth groups, the parish school of religion, as well as learning from the wonderful staff at St. Joseph’s.

I’ve even spent several class periods with the middle-school religion classes answering questions and sharing my story. These experiences have given me a fresh outlook on what it means to be a part of the parish. The things that I have learned so far are things which you simply cannot learn out of a book in a school; but things which are learned by doing and being with the people of the diocese.

It is lucky that St. Joseph is one of our busiest parishes and I have many opportunities to learn about parish life.

I know that my time at St. Joseph will change not only my life, but my future priesthood forever. • If you would like more information on the priesthood, contact Fr. Jerry Daigle: jdaigle@dioshpt.org, or call 318-868-4441.

• (002) Joseph & Antoinette Bakowski Memorial Burse ($2,100) • (003) Sam R. Maranto Memorial Burse ($1,200) • (004) Kathryn Atherton Cook Memorial Burse ($350) • (005) Cathedral of St. John Berchmans ($250) • (006) Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze Memorial Burse (($7,030) • (007) Dr. Carol Christopher Memorial Burse ($1,300) • (008) St. Jude Parish ($5,718) • (009) St. John Berchmans Knights of Columbus Council #10728 ($450) • (011) Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse ($6,935) • (014) Bob & Peggy Semmes Memorial Burse ($6,200) • (015) Bishop’s Seminarian Burse ($260) • (016) Elaine Malloy Frantz Memorial Burse ($1,000) • (017) Msgr. George Martinez Knights of Columbus Council 1337 ($7,521) For more information on donating to seminarian burses for the support of educating men in formation for the priesthood for our diocese, contact Fr. Jerry Daigle 318-868-4441, or jdaigle@dioshpt.org. • DECEMBER 2018 15

by Kim Long

fter 18 years of working for the Church, I have deemed Advent the season of quiet desperation. Our Church tells us to be reflective and prepare, while secular society is already booming about Christmas, the season following Advent.

The O Antiphons are not really well known among many of my Catholic friends and co-workers until I reference the easily recognized Advent hymn “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” With genuine relief they say “Oh right, yes I know that song.” But those prayers hold so much more for us.

It is at this moment in our “brand new year,” that the “O’s” offer us a bridge from the last few days of Advent into the Christmas season – a bridge from the wreath with four candles, all in different heights due to the celebratory “burn” of the previous weeks observance, to the stable. They bring us from promise to fulfillment, leaving behind the frenzied rush, offering instead the opportunity to stay connected to the anticipation of Christ’s birth. And if we “bridge the gap,” we can live out those last few days of Advent with some semblance of peace rather than greeting Christmas Eve and midnight Mass with sheer exhaustion, or even worse, with the silent battle cry, that “it will be over soon and life can get back to normal.”

HISTORY: The “Great O’s,” as they are called, have been around since roughly the sixth century. Prayed in the octave of Advent from December 17 though 23, they precede the recitation of the Magnificat during Vespers. By the eighth century they were regularly used in Rome. Although they have been used more in monastic settings, the laity has full access to these prayers, both in private devotion (there is an O Antiphon chaplet) and publicly during Vespers.

MEANING: An antiphon is a verse or psalm to be sung responsively. They have a dual meaning. First that each of these antiphons is a title of the Messiah, and secondly they point us toward Isaiah’s prophecy of the coming of the Messiah. They also form a Latin acrostic, “Ero Cras” meaning “tomorrow I will come.” Acrostics are formed by using the first letters in a sequence of phrases.

PRACTICE: What would our Christmas wish list look like if we, as adults, really gave some thought to what we are asking of God? After all, don’t we want what we ask for? Don’t we ask for what we want? In these prayers we are asking for, waiting for, hoping for the Messiah to come. What would that look like?

How would He arrive? Would we recognize Him? 16 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

O Sapienta, O Wisdom

“Come with outstretched arms and redeem us.”

In the year 2000, I was working in my first church parish. The pastor ordered an exquisite statue of Mary and the child Jesus. The beauty of it overtook me; it was beyond any I had seen in a religious article. I asked him what “version” of Mary this was, and he told me “Seat of Wisdom,” Sedes Sapentiae in Latin.

She lived on my work desk for a time, and when I gazed upon her serene face I would be calmed almost at once. This came in particularly handy when our office handled calls for Christmas baskets. Each time I began to feel frustrated, there she was, seeming to tell me my heart should not be troubled. And miraculously, it wasn’t. According to Webster’s, wisdom is defined as the ability to discern inner qualities and relationships. Each day I am presented with situations, and approached by people who need answers. Be it my own family or my church family, I am so aware that my wisdom isn’t sufficient but God’s is.

O Adonai, O Lord

“Come with an outstretched arm to redeem us.”

One of the definitions of redeem is “to free from what distresses or harms us.” In an adult education class given years ago by the Greco Institute, our instructor told us “God is God and I am not and I am glad.” On the surface this sounds like a pithy, almost silly remark, but it is something I have considered since I first heard it. I have a friend who suffers from different levels of anxiety about nearly everything. When she asked me why I thought this was, my answer was rooted in this remark. She was not opposed to belief in God and religious practice, she was simply “unchurched.” I told her that if I had to believe everything, every decision, action, outcome depended only on me and not on God, I would probably be just as anxious as she is. She looked at me quite intently over her coffee cup and said, “You may be right, but how do I begin?” I shared the teacher’s statement with her and that sparked a genuine conversation, a true seeking of information, not just a platitude filled coffee klatch.

O Radix, O Root of Jesse “Come and save us, and do not delay.”

Root has several definitions, but here is one worth considering: the unseen part which anchors and supports. My rootedness is something I need to reconnect with regularly. A few years ago I just “didn’t feel Catholic,” or in my estimation, not “Catholic enough.” These moments happen to us all. I longed for the feeling I had as a new Catholic where every piece of the Church’s vast history seemed like a newly discovered gemstone that I alone had mined. Every new piece of doctrine seemed like the missing piece, and now I was more complete, whole.

None of those feelings were resonating with me. It seemed I had lost touch (temporarily) with my origin. I grudgingly returned to practices I didn’t “feel” like doing, ones I hadn’t thought of in years, in an attempt to reconnect. Slowly I made my way to a new feeling of connection; a path paved with things I knew to be true regardless of the “feeling” involved.

In this moment I realized that my faith is not predicated on feelings alone, rather it is rooted in truth and love.

O Clavis of David, O Key of David

“Come and deliver the one from the chains of prison who sits in darkness and in the shadow of death.”

A metal instrument by which a bolt is turned is the common definition of the word key. This holds special resonance when I am in a new place, one that I do not really want to be in. There is a situation that I know God has given me, a lesson I now see is intended to unlock a part of me I had no wish to see, much less examine. It is here in the waning darkness that I ask the Messiah, the anointed one, Christ, to thaw my frozen heart, to turn the bolt, for deliverance.

O Oriens, O Rising Dawn

“Come enlighten those who sit in darkness.”

Dawn has a lesser known definition: to begin to appear or develop and to begin to be perceived or understood. The saying “things will seem clearer in the morning,” appears to be rooted here. At the

end of a horrible day my one enduring thought surfaces, “I never have to live through this day again.” When I think of my ability to understand our faith and God’s love, I often feel as though I am peeling away the unending layers of an onion. The adage of not being able to stand in the same river twice applies here. We are always changing, growing, even if we go two steps forward and one step back. As a result, we are always peeling away the layers to get to, as Matthew Kelly speaks of, the best version of ourselves. We seek the light.

O Rex Gentium, O King of the Nations

“Come and save poor man, whom you fashion out of clay.”

When my sons were young we lived on a farm whose soil I called “hateful.” There was so much clay in the soil that when wet, it seemed to be slimy, and when dry, it cracked open so much that there were places I could set my entire foot inside. It seemed, like humanity, to have a mind of its own. The boys would often come home so covered in this slime that I would make them strip down to their underwear and wash off with a hose before coming in the house to bathe – otherwise the bathtub would not drain. This picture of childhood serves as a great illustration of my own willfulness.

While a water hose no longer suffices, this prayer does.

O Emmanuel

“Come and save us, O Lord our God.”

I cannot remember when I first heard the somber refrain of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” I do remember where; in the living room of a small house on Ash Street, the street where I grew up.

My mother played stacks and stacks of Christmas recordings on her “hi-fi.” They were wonderful, scratchy teachers. “O Come O Come Emmanuel” was one such lesson brought to us by volume two of Firestone Presents, a series of Christmas recordings. The tone of the music, its minor key sound covering me like a blanket, was something my soul seemed to need, to recognize, and it was here that they were imprinted in me. It was here that my gratitude for salvation was born. It is these prayers that help that gratitude grow.

May your Advent and these antiphons lead you into the light of the star, the warmth of the stable, and the miracle of love. •

They bring us from promise to fulfillment, leaving behind the frenzied rush, offering instead the opportunity to stay connected to the anticipation of Christ’s birth.

DECEMBER 2018 17

Find Harmony this Holiday Season

by Kelly Phelan Powell

S

ince I was a young girl, I’ve dreamt of the perfect family Christmas morning. My handsome husband and I would spring, totally refreshed, from bed when our beautiful children awoke us with shouts of delight at their surprises from Santa Claus. We would sit, all of us together in our matching Land’s End pajamas, and sip cocoa in front of a roaring fire. The children would fully comprehend (because Fantasy Husband and I are model Catholic parents, you see) that Christmas Day is not just about Santa Claus, toys and turkey but instead celebrates the birth of our Savior. Spending the day with our entire combined families, all of whom adore each other and get along perfectly at all times, would give us even more reason to praise God on this beautiful Christmas morning that would never, ever be 78 degrees with 90 percent humidity.

Except for the handsome husband and beautiful children, not one of our eight Christmas mornings together have even remotely resembled my quixotic Dream Christmas. (And I have loved each and every one of them more than I ever thought possible.)

Unrealistic expectations are just one source of stress at the holidays. Emotions run high, and even the smallest slights can become A Very Big Deal Indeed. Old family grudges, politics, religion and even child rearing are landmine conversation topics at big family gatherings. And then, of course, there are far more serious matters between family members that could include physical, psychological or sexual abuse, domestic violence, racism and bigotry. Combined, these factors make holidays into anxiety-ridden nightmares for many people.

“Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive,” says St. Paul in Colossians 3:13, but that can seem impossible when you can’t even have a peaceful Thanksgiving dinner together.

As Catholic Christians, we’re called to build strong families, and there are some things you can do, at the holidays or any time, to help smooth family interactions so that peace and 18 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

love have a chance to take root and grow. Dr. Brandi Patton, an adult psychiatrist in the public sector/government in Birmingham, AL, shared some advice for less stressful family gatherings.

1

Limit alcohol.

We may joke about needing a stiff drink when times get tough (or Uncle Lester starts pontificating about politics), but alcohol can make things significantly worse. “Too much alcohol can lead to disinhibition and send conversations in the wrong direction,” said Dr. Patton.

2

Manage expectations and acknowledge anxiety.

“Practice self-care,” said Dr. Patton. “Know your limits don’t invite 100 people if you only have space for 20 or a budget for 10. Communicate your needs; don’t expect others to read your mind or know [what you need] instinctively.

Lower your expectations. Allow yourself to accept the holiday gathering or event as it actually is, not as you want it to be or thought it would or could be. Spend time alone before or after if that’s something you know you need. Try not to over-schedule yourself, and allow for a different definition of success.” In other words, focus on “We ate dinner together and everyone was satisfied,” rather than “We didn’t have a five-star, four-course meal served on China with silver.”

3

Use humor.

Dr. Patton suggested a joke followed by a quick subject change to something you know the other person likes or is interested in: “I’ve started my New Year’s resolutions early and one of them is giving up talking about politics! Have you been taking your boat out a lot?”

4

Take a break.

“Take a bathroom or other break,” said Dr. Patton. “Or say you need to check the turkey. Seriously! This can be really helpful to rearrange the conversational groups and change the mood.”

5

Have a code word.

“Agree with your significant other or another close family member or friend ahead of time that you will ‘rescue’ each other if you anticipate a particularly problematic issue with a certain relative,” said Dr. Patton. “You serve as each other’s ‘wingman’ who can request assistance in the kitchen or whatever makes sense for the two of you.”

6

Save complex topics for another time.

If a family member brings up a sensitive subject on which you know (or strongly suspect) you fundamentally disagree, Dr. Patton suggested, say something like “I’d really like to talk about that later when we have more time and privacy,” and then move on to another topic. If they press the issue, politely point out that you have feelings as strong as theirs, but out of respect for the holiday (and the host), you’d rather discuss such a serious topic another day.

7

Know your limits.

Nearly everyone knows that family member or friend-ofa-friend-of-a-friend who spouts off offensively about whatever topic is at hand. Dr. Patton suggested a firm but civil response like, “I don’t insult members of other races/ cultures/religions/etc., and I expect the same of others while they’re in my home.” As a last resort, “if the person will not drop the subject or suggests violence, you may need to kindly but firmly ask them to leave,” she said. “Always consider safety first and contact authorities for assistance if a dangerous situation seems to be developing.”

May we all experience peace and joy this holiday season. But if you can’t find peace, at least try to find humor. We may never have the ridiculously perfect holidays of our dreams, but thanks to Jesus, joy is always within reach. •

Father Lombard Celebrates 65 Years of Priestly Ministry

T

by John Mark Willcox

here are few Catholics who live in Shreveport or Bossier City that have not had their lives affected in a positive way by Fr. Richard Lombard, who celebrates his 65th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood on December 20. After he received Holy Orders in 1953, Fr. Lombard was encouraged by the late Bishop Charles P. Greco to minister in the mission field of Louisiana.

Upon his arrival in Alexandria, Fr. Lombard began providing his unique priestly ministry to the Catholics of central Louisiana. His many early assignments included serving as an assistant in three locations until he came to his first pastor’s assignment at St. Edward Church in Tallulah, LA, in 1962. Four years later, Bishop Greco asked that he go to west Shreveport and serve as the founding pastor of a new parish. Thus, Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Shreveport was born in August of 1966, and the parishioners there enjoyed 20 years of Fr. Lombard’s pastoral leadership.

Fr. Lombard departed Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in 1986, but not before proudly burning the mortgage of the new church and leaving the parish entirely debt free. He then served short appointments to Shreveport’s St. Catherine of Sienna Parish in 1986, and Christ the King Parish in Bossier City from 1987-90. The remainder of his active ministry has been centered on St. Joseph Parish in Shreveport, where he served as an associate priest before being named as pastor, later guiding St. Joseph

during the parish’s 50th anniversary in 1999.

Throughout his priesthood, Fr. Lombard has excelled at instructing and welcoming new Catholics through the RCIA process and helping divorced Catholics through the marriage annulment process. Through his devoted ministry, thousands of new Catholics have entered the Church and hundreds among the faithful are able to lead new lives following their successful annulments. Fr. Lombard has never lost a case he brought before the Marriage Tribunal, a feat of which he is most proud.

Even with his senior priest status, Fr. Lombard continues to offer his ministry to the people of our region without hesitation. He is a priest who built and renovated parishes, guided his people in true stewardship to God’s many blessings, marked and celebrated milestones with his congregations, and spent decades bringing people into and back to Mother Church. He is truly devoted to his vocation and remains a wonderful example of the priesthood to thousands of Catholics in two different dioceses.

God bless you Father Lombard, and thank you for your years of service to the faithful of Louisiana! • DECEMBER 2018 19

Fitzgerald Named Outstanding Philanthropist

by Tiffany Olah, Catholic Charities of North Louisiana

CCNLA board member Martha Holoubek Fitzgerald received this year's Outstanding Philanthropist Award.

O

n November 7, 2018, the Association of Fundraising Professionals North Louisiana Chapter hosted their 27th Annual National Philanthropy Day awards luncheon at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bossier City. Catholic Charities of North Louisiana (CCNLA) was there to support this year’s recipient for Outstanding Philanthropist: Martha Holoubek Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald is the immediate past president of the CCNLA board of directors and has served on the board since 2013.

She has additionally supported our organization with personal donations in the eight years since Catholic Charities began its mission to serve the poor and vulnerable in North Louisiana.

It is because her many years of service to the Shreveport/ Bossier community, and especially for her outstanding work at Catholic Charities that CCNLA Executive Director, Meg Goorley, nominated Fitzgerald for this prestigious honor.

“Because of her gentle demeanor, most people don’t know what a powerhouse she is,” Goorley said. “Martha Fitzgerald is the most remarkable, ordinary person I’ve met.”

Such sentiments couldn’t ring more true. Her community service contributions are impressive and extensive. Before her work with CCNLA, Fitzgerald served as a board member, a committee member or held office for LSU Health Sciences 20 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

Center Foundation-Shreveport, the College of Humanities and Natural Sciences Visiting Committee for Loyola University, the Leyla Beban Young Authors Foundation, Louisiana Press Women, National Federation of Press Women and the Leadership Council for Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce. She currently serves as a board member of Pet Pantry of Northwest Louisiana, a committee member of River Cities Network for business women, and serves as lector and minister of care at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans.

She has been a member of the Women’s Philanthropy Network of Shreveport since its founding. Through that program, Fitzgerald participates in the selection of grants for organizations such as Step Forward, Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, Volunteers for Youth Justice, Caddo Parish Transformation Zone, Caddo Parish School Board, LSU Shreveport Foundation and Biomedical Research Foundation.

Not only has Fitzgerald made a lasting impact on the community within the non-profit sector, but in her professional career as well. Fitzgerald, a former journalist, is an author, editor and independent publisher. She owns Little Dove Press LLC, Martha Fitzgerald Consulting, LLC and manages Holoubek Family, LLC. She is a former columnist and associate editorial page editor for The Shreveport Times. In fact, she held several editor positions while at The Times and did her share of special assignments for Gannett as well.

A graduate of the 100th class of St. Vincent’s Academy in Shreveport, Fitzgerald earned her Bachelor’s degree from Loyola University, her Master’s degree from Louisiana Tech University and holds a Certificate of Advanced Biblical Studies from the University of Dallas.

Catholic Charities of North Louisiana could not be more proud or honored to have been a part of Fitzgerald’s legacy of service. •

Graphic Novel Series on Shreveport 1873 Yellow Fever Epidemic Martyrs RIGHT: The Catholic Connection will run a graphic novel series each month, featuring the story of five priests who gave their lives in service to others in the Shreveport Yellow Fever epidemic of 1873. The first page of this series sets the scene for their stories. This graphic novel is provided courtesy of the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans and is illustrated by Deacon Andrew Thomas.

DECEMBER 2018 21

Catholic Charities Announces New Development Director

Save the Date: Gala to Honor Msgr. Carson LaCaze

by Randy Tiller

C

atholic Charities of North Louisiana (CCNLA) recently announced that Tiffany Olah has joined the organization as the new Director of Development and Communications.

As Director of Development and Communications, Olah will not only be responsible for maintaining donor relations, coordinating with community outreach programs and creating public awareness, but will also be responsible for annual social events that support Catholic Charities, such as Bingo on the Bayou and Lights of Broadway.

Originally from Florida, Olah resides in Shreveport with her husband and daughter while her son is a student at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. She is excited to bring her communications and public relations knowledge to Catholic Charities and eager to work with those at Catholic Charities.

“I am honored to be part of such a diverse staff that genuinely cares about what they do and who they do it for,” Olah said.

For more information about CCNLA, visit www.ccnla.org or email questions to development@ccnla.org. You may also call 318-865-0200 or visit CCNLA on Facebook or Instagram.

Catholic Charities of North Louisiana was established in 2010 through the efforts of the Diocese of Shreveport. It continues to uphold its vision of investing in people to alleviate poverty, distress and injustice. • 22 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

A

s many of you may know, Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze had an extensive collection of rabbits – yes, rabbits – and although they are not live rabbits, they still seemed to multiply over the years, as rabbits tend to do.

Msgr. LaCaze’s family has donated the collection and several other choice items to the Diocese of Shreveport. The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans and Catholic Center have joined together and formed committees to plan a “Monsignor LaCaze Memorial Gala.”

Who better to kick off the Mardi Gras season than that quintessential Mardi Gras Monsignor?

His love of people, infectious smile, great stories and an all-round friend to all (if he liked you, he kidded you!) makes him the perfect “poster boy” to make this gala both a memorable event, as well as a great source of funding for the Diocesan Priest’s Retirement Fund. As discussed with Msgr. LaCaze’s family, all the proceeds from this event will go to this fund in his honor.

The items have been inventoried and catalogued by the committee.

A few of the more special items will be held for a live auction, while the other items will be set up for a silent auction. This will all take place in the Multi-Room at St. John Berchmans Catholic School.

Saturday, February 16, 2019, has been reserved for the event. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. Sponsorship tables are encouraged. Individual tickets will be sold in advance at $50 per person. This will include several drink tickets and a very lavish buffet with many of Msgr. LaCaze’s favorite food and spirits.

As we move closer to the date, more information will be posted on websites, bulletins, and The Catholic Connection magazine.

Please mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the life of Msgr.

J. Carson LaCaze.

Tickets will be available at the Catholic Center and the Cathedral Office.

Committee Chairs: Carol Gates and Randy Tiller •

Year-End Giving

by John Mark Willcox, Director of Stewardship

I

n these times of rapid change, the end of the year can be an excellent time to review your important financial matters, especially those dealing with your desire to make any charitable gift to the Church before December 31, 2018. With changes to federal tax laws constantly being proposed, giving to the Church this year may save you more.

One of the last tax savings opportunities completely within your personal control are your monetary gifts provided for supporting the ministry of the Church. Naturally, the higher your tax bracket, the more your charitable Church gifts will save you. The amount you save depends on tax rates and the portion of your gifts you are allowed to deduct. Facilitating your financial incentives to give to the Church before year’s end can significantly reduce the amount of taxes you will owe next April.

GIFTS OF CASH Most of the Church’s faithful give in this way in the form of cash, donating online, electronic transfers or personal checks.

When you itemize your tax deductions, up to one half of your Adjusted Gross Income or AGI can be positively affected by gifts of this nature.

GIFTS OF APPRECIATED PROPERTY Mutual funds, bonds, securities or individual stocks that have risen in value can result in tax savings. If you have owned these items for more than one year, they can be deducted from your income tax at full value. This also gives you the added advantage of avoiding capital

gains tax due on a sale instead of a gift.

Some of your investments may have decreased in value \ as 2018 comes to a close. Consider selling them and making a charitable gift of the cash you receive for them. This creates a loss you may be able to deduct from other income subject to taxation, along with the amount of the cash donation.

Remember that any tax deductions you choose not to use this year, may be carried forward for up to five future tax years.

LIFE INSURANCE GIFTS You may own an insurance policy that has accumulated cash value, but is no longer needed for its original purpose.

You have the option of gifting the value of that policy to the Church and benefitting from welcome income tax savings.

ESTATE PLANS December is also an excellent month to review your immediate and long-range estate and financial plans.

Retirement accounts, life insurance policies and wills are just some of the tools of estate planning that can leave a lasting legacy to the Church. These meaningful future gifts can also generate income while providing immediate tax savings. After your loved ones have been provided for, consider leaving a specific amount or a percentage, or the residue of your estate to the Church.

ACTION EQUALS BENEFITS If you want to take advantage of the strategies listed above, the month of December is the time to act. See your advisors and accountant to provide you with your specific needs and spend time right now to decide on how best to make your year-end gifts work best for you and the Church you love. For more information on how your year-end or planned gift can help both you and the Church, contact the Diocesan Office of Stewardship at 800-256-1542.

Appeal Sunday Slated for February 17, 2019 The Masses of February 16-17, 2019 have been selected to launch our 2019 Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal Campaign. Please mark your calendars and begin to plan now on how you can gift your time, talent and treasure to the good of our combined ministry to the people of this region.

Appeal highlights for the coming year will be featured in the February issue of your Catholic Connection and don’t forget, additional Appeal donations received at the Catholic Center on or before December 31 can be attributed to your charitable contributions on your Federal Income tax form for 2018. • DECEMBER 2018 23

Kids'

Connection O Antiphons MATCHING

The O Antiphons are verses sung on the days leading up to Christmas, December 17 -23. Each antiphon is both a title of Jesus and reference Isaiah’s prophecy of Jesus’ birth. Below, match the Latin Antiphon to its English meaning!

Key of David

O' Sapienta

King of the Nations

O' Adonai

Rising Dawn

O' Radix

Root of Jesse

O' Clavis of David

Wisdom

O' Oriens

Lord

O' Rex Gentium

God with Us

O' Emmanuel

Word Find O Antiphons

ADONAI ADVENT ANTIPHONS DAVID DAWN EMMANUEL JESSE JESUS KEY KING LORD NATIONS RISING ROOT SAPIENTA WISDOM 24 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

O Antiphon Scripture Verses Read these verses with your family on the days leading up to Christmas, and use them to prepare for the birth of Christ.

December 17 O’ Sapienta Isaiah 11:2-3

December 18 O’ Adonai Isaiah 11:4-5 and 33:22

December 19 O’ Radix Isaiah 11:1 & 11:10

December 20 O’ Clavis of David Isaiah 22:22

December 21 O’ Oriens Isaiah 9:2

December 22 O’ Rex Gentium Isaiah 2:4

December 23 O’ Emmanuel Isaiah 7:14.

HISPANIC NEWS

Seguimos en Oración por un Nuevo Obispo para nuestra Diócesis por Rosalba Quiroz

En las palabras del padre Peter Mangum el Administrador temporal de la diócesis que nos dice: Unámonos en oración en cada Misa para pedir por nuestro nuevo obispo. De verdad es de inspiración saber que el futuro del tercer Obispo de Shreveport está en algún lugar trabajando en la Iglesia y esto hace que nuestra oración sea precisa. Oremos por el en su búsqueda por la santidad, por su celo, y por su amor a la Iglesia como Jesucristo la fundó.

Esta es la oración compuesta precisamente por la llegada de un nuevo obispo: Toda la gloria para Ti, Señor Dios, Nuestro eterno Pastor y Guía.

En tu fidelidad, otorga a la Diócesis de Shreveport un pastor que vigile con cuidado y celo bondadoso, que sea un testigo constante de fe y amor para toda la gente confiada a su cuidado. Que en Tu amor por nosotros, se esfuerce cada día más para vivir con santidad de vida y virtud heroica para que pueda guiar a Tu santa gente en toda verdad, que sea el corazón y misericordia de Cristo, la voz de la esperanza, y la mente de la justicia.

Prepáralo, con humildad te rogamos, que llene nuestras mentes y corazones con la verdad del Evangelio, el poder de los sacramentos, y el deseo de trabajar arduamente para construir tu santa Iglesia. Te lo pedimos por Jesucristo nuestro Señor. Amen Que esta temporada de Adviento en la espera del Niño Jesús nos inspire también a rogar por todos. Desde la oficina del Ministerio Hispano Les deseamos una Muy Feliz Navidad y un Próspero año 2019. •

H

ace ya tres meses que el Obispo Michael G. Duca fue instalado como el VI obispo de Baton Rouge y por consecuencia tenemos el mismo tiempo sin obispo en nuestra diócesis por lo que continuamos en oración para que Dios y el Papa Francisco nos envíen nuevo Pastor.

No sabremos cuanto tiempo estaremos sin obispo pues en ocasiones un obispo nuevo es nombrado tres o seis meses pero hay algunas diócesis que pueden durar hasta casi dos años sin obispo. Los invito a seguir fervorosamente pidiendo que el Papa Francisco envíe un buen pastor. Deben haber recibido una tarjeta de la diócesis que es también un separador de libros que se pasaron en las parroquias en inglés y en español para que a diario por esta necesidad.

Calendario Diocesano del Mes Diciembre del 2018 8. Fiesta de la Inmaculada Concepción de la Santísima Virgen María.

11-12. Celebraciones en honor a Nuestra Sra. De Guadalupe en las parroquias.

15. Reunión Anual Navideña de Coordinadores & Voluntarios 12pm-3pm. Centro Católico 16-24.l Novenario y Posadas en preparación para la Navidad en las parroquias.

25. Celebración del Nacimiento de Nuestro Señor Jesucristo en el portal de Belén.

MINISTERIO HISPANO CATOLICO - DIOCESIS Rosalba Quiroz, Directora (318) 219-7265; rquiroz@dioshpt.org Melina Sanchez, Secretaria (318) 219-7257; msanchez@dioshpt.org Cristo Rey: Bossier City

425 McCormick Street P. Rigo Betancurt P. Mark Watson (318) 221-0238 Domingo-1:00pm Lunes y Martes-7pm Sabado-6pm

Santo Tomás Aquino: Ruston

810 Carey Avenue P. Tony Posadas (318) 243-0115 Domingo-1:30pm

Sta Maria de los Pinos: Shreveport

1050 Bert Kouns Ind. Loop P. Fidel Mondragon (318) 455-2300 Domingo-11:30am

Vicario General para la Diocesis de Shreveport Padre Rothell Price, V.G. (318)219-7259; rprice@dioshpt.org Coordinador de la Vicaria del Este Padre Luis Jost, OFM (318) 243-0115; pluisofm@yahoo.com

San Pascual: W. Monroe

711 North 7th Street P. Luis Jost (318) 243-0115 Domingo-4:00pm Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro: Farmerville

600 East Water Street P. Luis Jost (318) 243-0115 Sábado-7:00pm

San Juan Bautista: Many

1130 San Antonio Ave. P. Francis Kamau (318) 256-5680 1er Domingo de Mes-5pm

Sagrado Corazon: Oak Grove

201 Purvis St. P. Joseph Kallookalam (318) 559-2876 Domingo-5:00pm

DECEMBER 2018 25

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SCHOOL NEWS SJS Students Attend Annual Vocations Luncheon

s part of National Vocations Awareness Week, St. Joseph Catholic School has annually held a vocations luncheon that allows middle school students to visit with men and women of the diocese who have answered God’s call to priesthood, the diaconate or religious life. The event is held at the St. Joseph Church Family Life Center, includes lunch and provides a casual atmosphere for conversation about vocations. The students who attend have voluntarily expressed an interest in speaking with the priests, deacons, seminarians and sisters, and they dine in separate rooms to allow for more intimate conversations about each type of vocation. Fr. Matthew Long, pastor of St. Joseph Church, was in attendance, as well as seminarian Jeb Key, Deacon Bill Roche, Sr. Anna Maria Iannetti, OLS, and two novices. Fr. Long makes regular visits to religion classrooms throughout the year, as well. During National Vocations Awareness Week the students enjoyed visits from Fr. Matthew Long, Fr. Fidel MondragÓn, Fr. Biju Kuriakose and Deacon Bill Roche. •

OLF Students Volunteer

Oglesby Elected State FBLA Treasurer

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n March, Cason Oglesby of St. Frederick High School was elected by his peers to serve as the State Treasurer of the Louisiana Chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America. Cason has been a student at St. Frederick High School since 2014 and was previously a student at Jesus the Good Shepherd School. The St. Frederick’s FBLA chapter is packed with dynamic students. Because of this, Cason, along with only five other chapter members, waged a successful campaign over a two-day span at the State Conference in Lafayette. He is a determined and confident young man who is passionate about his love of the FBLA organization. His excitement and enthusiasm were palpable when he delivered his election speech. •

26 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

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ur Lady of Fatima School 4-H students volunteered at the local food bank!

JGS Celebrates All Saints Day

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n November 1, Jesus the Good Shepherd School celebrated a special All Saints Day school Mass where the students dressed as their favorite saint. At the end of Mass, students were invited to state the name of their saint to the church congregation. The students did a wonderful job of paying homage to our blessed saints. •

St. John Berchmans School's Principal Deason Earns Doctorate

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ennifer Deason, principal of St. John Berchmans Catholic School in Shreveport, graduated on November 17 with her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Louisiana Tech University.

Deason has always believed her faith is the reason she is where she is. She said, “My Catholic faith has always been an integral part of my life. We prayed nightly family rosaries and we went to first Friday Masses at 6:30 in the morning. I feel my parents instilled in me such a deep love and respect for my faith.“ She attended Louisiana Tech University, and eventually Louisiana State University (LSU), where she graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She began teaching in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System upon her graduation. She then went on to earn a Master's degree in Education in School Counseling from LSU. After relocating to Sulphur, Deason completed additional graduate coursework at McNeese State University in Lake Charles. In 2008, she began working as a middle school counselor in the Calcasieu Parish School System, and in 2010 was named Calcasieu Parish Middle School Counselor of the Year. She then went on

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counseling position at St. John Berchmans Catholic School. After Jennifer obtained the Educational Leadership I certification, she became Assistant Principal. She also obtained her dual certification as a National Certified Counselor and a National Certified School Counselor.

In 2014, Deason began the Educational Leadership doctoral program with Louisiana Tech University, and in 2017, she was promoted to principal of St. John Berchmans School.

Deason emphasized, “When it came time to choose my dissertation, I wanted to be awarded Louisiana Middle School my topic to be something that would Counselor of the Year. help me as a Catholic school leader.” Her Shortly after receiving this award, research focused on factors influencing Jennifer and her family relocated to parental school choice in North Louisiana.

Benton, moving away from her parents, On October 4, she successfully siblings and the close knit Catholic defended her dissertation before her community she had always known. doctoral committee and officially Longing to find a sense of Catholic community in their new location, Jennifer completed her doctorate. On November 17, she walked across the stage at and her husband, Chris, enrolled their Louisiana Tech for the “doctoral hooding” boys in Catholic school and she began ceremony and received her diploma in working in the Diocese of Shreveport Ed.D in Educational Leadership. school system.

Deason said, “I feel God has led me Initially, she completed a long-term to where I am supposed to be, doing His substitute teaching position for the work in our Catholic school, where I am 2010-2011 school year as a 5th grade teacher at St. Joseph Catholic School. The able to integrate my faith, family and following school year, Jennifer accepted a profession all into one.” •

Loyola Student Organization Hosts Meal Drive

oyola College Prep student organization Flyers Against the Hungry (F.Ai.T.H) holds an annual event serving the Shreveport and Bossier City communities just in time for the holidays.

On December 3, F.Ai.T.H. will serve over 900 baskets from the Loyola gymnasium. Meals come in baskets filled with canned goods, bread and ham – all supported by fundraising, donations and sponsorships.

The community is invited to sponsor a basket for $30 which helps to cover the cost for its contents. Supporters are also encouraged to donate goods and children’s toys for various ages.

Over its near three decades of operation, approximately 87,000 people have been fed on F.Ai.T.H. Day. In addition to its chairmen and officers, over 55 percent of the student body helps distribute the baskets. Santa Claus even makes an appearance to hand out toys to children in attendance.

DECEMBER 2018 27

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Ruston Students Build Community

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n October 22, Ruston High School (RHS) members of Future Farmers of America (FFA) sponsored a community night by hosting a Fall Festival.

RHS senior, and St. Thomas Aquinas parishioner, Emma Montgomery, approached the members of the Association of Catholic Tech Students (ACTS) to set up a booth complete with games and candy. Members of ACTS responded by manning and sponsoring a booth on the RHS boulevard. Such interaction between the youth of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and the campus ministry program is highly encouraged.The time was well spent as Catholic students interacted with the greater Ruston community showing support and encouragement for high school community at large. (1)

Manshack Turns 102

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aggie Manshack, a parishioner of St. Ann Church in Ebarb celebrated her 102nd birthday in the Parish Hall. Maggie’s family and friends hosted the luncheon and party. Maggie lives at home and is very devoted to the Rosary. (2)

Youth Teach the Rosary

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he St. Paschal Senior high youth group recently lead a series entitled, “Mary and the Rosary” for the junior high youth during October to celebrate the Month of the Rosary. SPY taught weekly topics on Mary, the history of the Rosary, Marian apparitions, the mysteries and how to say the Rosary. They concluded the series by teaching the Jr SPY group how to make a Rosary. (3)

Silver Rose at St. Mary of the Pines

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t. Mary of the Pines Parish hosted the Our Lady of Guadalupe - Silver Rose Program. The Knights of Columbus: Marian Council 3779 organized this event. (4)

28 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

Confirmation Class Receives Bibles

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t. Joseph Parish in Zwolle’s 9th grade pre-Confirmation class received personal Bibles form Fr. Richard Norsworthy. (5)

Sacred Heart Hosts 2nd Pro-Life Mass

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acred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Shreveport hosted its second annual Pro-Life Mass, themed “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” on October 21 at 3:00 p.m. Fr. Peter Mangum, Diocesan Administrator, was the main celebrant.

Fr. Michael Thang’wa, FMH, Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, concelebrated.

Before Mass began, a prayerful procession around the church took place, led by the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Marian Council #3779. Immediately following Mass, a home-cooked spaghetti dinner was served. (6)

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Catholic Daughters

he Catholic Daughters of the Americas, St. Matthew Court 1144 celebrated holy Mass followed by a memorial services for their deceased sisters in Christ. (7)

Halloween at St. Jude

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he children who attend the school at St. Jude Parish in Benton dressed up in style for their Halloween program. (9)

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St. Francis Medical Center Blesses Pets

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t. Francis Medical Center in Monroe held its annual pet blessing on Sunday, October 7, in Anna Gray Noe Park with Fr. Philip Theempalangattu providing the blessings. This event is held annually by the hospital to recognize the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi. (9) Send submissions to "Around the Diocese" to jrinaudo@dioshpt.org.

Please include a photo that has not been resized and a brief description.

DECEMBER 2018 29

DECEMBER CALENDAR December 29

St. Thomas Becket, bishop & martyr

December 30

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph

December 31

St. Sylvester I, pope

HOLIDAYS December 25

Advent Begins December 2

Christmas Day Catholic Center Closed (12/24 – 12/26)

FEAST DAYS

December 16

December 31

First Sunday of Advent

December 2

Third Sunday of Advent

New Year’s Eve

December 21

December 3

St. Peter Canisius, priest & doctor of the Church

DIOCESAN EVENTS

St. Francis Xavier, priest

December 4

St. John Damascene, priest & doctor of the Church

December 6

St. Nicholas, bishop

December 7

St. Ambrose, bishop & doctor of the Church

December 8

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Day of Obligation

December 6

Protecting God’s Children Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish, 10:30 a.m. For more information, email Deacon Mike Straub at mstraub@dioshpt.org.

December 23

Fourth Sunday of Advent

December 25

Christmas The Nativity of the Lord

December 11

Theology on Tap: Monroe This event is an opportunity for young adults to come together and learn more about a topic of the Catholic faith. Join us at Fieldhouse Bar and Grill, 1510 Sterlington Rd., Monroe, at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, email Melina Sanchez at msanchez@dioshpt.org.

December 26

St. Stephen, the first martyr

December 27

St. John, apostle & evangelist

December 28

The Holy Innocents, martyrs

December 9

Join our parish for BEST ADVENT EVER, a free email program from Dynamic Catholic that will help you slow

Second Sunday of Advent

down and focus on what matters most during the busy holiday season. Each day of Advent, you’ll receive an

December 11

email with . . .

St. Damasus I, pope

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December 12

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Practical tips for your everyday life

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Real-life stories to encourage you in your faith journey

Short inspirational videos from Allen Hunt, Matthew Kelly, and the Dynamic Catholic team.

Our Lady of Guadalupe

December 13

St. Lucy, virgin & martyr

December 14

St. John of the Cross, priest & doctor of the Church 30 THE CATHOLIC CONNECTION

To sign up, visit

BestAdventEver.com/Christmas18

Save the Date: Bingo on the Delta • February 2 @6pm December 12

Protecting God’s Children Catholic Center, 6:00 p.m. For more information, email Deacon Mike Straub at mstraub@dioshpt.org.

of storytelling) and children’s corner. If you are Irish by birth or marriage and would like to participate in the entrance procession, please call Kim in the parish office, 318-687-5121.

Fundraiser featuring guest speaker Jason Jones, author and movie producer.

The event will be catered by Silver Star Steakhouse. Bossier Civic Center, 6:30 p.m. More details to come!

February 2

February 22

Catholic Charities of North Louisiana Presents: Bingo on the Delta, West Monroe Convention Center at 6:00 p.m. For more information contact CCNLA: development@ccnla.org. 318-8650200, ext. 101

February 19

Fête for Life, Save the Date for a Mary’s House Pregnancy Care Center

Save the Date: Find Your Greatness Dominick Albano, Catholic author and speaker, is coming to Shreveport on February 22, 2019! Join St. Joseph Parish, Shreveport, for a great evening of listening, learning, scripture and prayer. Find Your Greatness is based on Matthew Kelly’s best-seller The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic. Visit DynamicCatholic.com/Shreveport, or call 859-980-7900 for tickets.

PARISH EVENTS December 8

24 Hour Rosary Join rosary participants at St. Jude Parish, located at 4700 Palmetto Road in Benton for a 24 hour Rosary.

It begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, December 8, and the last Rosary will finish around 11:59 p.m. They will stop only for the two Masses at 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. During the dark hours, doors will be locked, but people will watch the glass door and open them for the people on the outside. Attendees are welcome to come and stay for one rosary or 20 – whatever their heart needs. If you have any questions please contact the church office at 318-746-2508.

January 27

St. Brigid Celebration Join St. Mary of the Pines Parish on January 27 as they celebrate the life and mission of St. Brigid of Kildare!

Bilingual Rosary at 8:30 a.m. (Irish and English). Mass at 9:00 a.m.

Ceili in Parish Hall immediately following Mass! There will be an Irish brunch served along with singing, dancing, mumming (ancient form

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by L'Anne Sciba

n Louisiana, you know that holidays mean more than Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. It means Mardi Gras, too!

And we’re falling in the “second line” with this special season by throwing Fête For Life - a fun celebration and the most important pro-life fundraiser for Mary’s House Pregnancy Care Center, February 19, 2019 at the Bossier Civic Center.

Silver Star Smokehouse will serve up a jambalaya feast with all the fixins and bread pudding, too!

I’m so excited about our keynote speaker! Jason Scott Jones is an author, pro-life advocate and producer of

award-winning films, including Bella – you don’t want to miss him!

Your presence at Fête For Life will help hundreds of young pregnant moms find confidence to carry their babies to birth.

Your pro-life beliefs in action permit Mary’s House to offer free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds, early access to medical care, ongoing support and education to young women resulting in healthy pregnancies and babies – that’s something we all want!

Buy your tickets today for Fête For Life at MarysHouseOfLaFoundation.org, or check out Mary's House Pregnancy Care Center Facebook page for TICKETS, TABLES and SPONSORSHIPS! DECEMBER 2018 31

Connection The Catholic

DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT 3500 Fairfield Ave. • Shreveport, LA 71104

PHOTO OF THE MONTH

Children at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Ruston dress up as their favorite saints in honor of All Saints Day.

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Fairfield