The Men's Issue - November 2022

CATHOLIC CONNECTION

Fr. Matthew Long Dr. Carynn Wiggins Fr. Pat Madden

SUBSCRIPTIONS & ADDRESS CHANGES

Contact: Blanca Vice Email: bvice@dioshpt.org

Write: The Catholic Connection 3500 Fairfield Ave. Shreveport, LA 71104 Call: 318-868-4441 Fax: 318-868-4609

SUBMISSIONS

Contact: Kierstin Richter Email: krichter@dioshpt.org

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

The Diocese of Shreveport complies with Virtus’ Protecting God’s Children program. (www.virtus.org) Classes are offered every second Wednesday of the month at the Catholic Center in Shreveport. Online sessions are also available. To report child sexual abuse by a cleric or church worker in the Diocese of Shreveport, call your local law enforcement agency and Mary Katherine Arcement, Diocesan Victim Assistance Minister at 318-584-2411. Don’t forget to check your Virtus accounts monthly to stay up to date on your bulletins. You don’t have to wait for an email you can login at anytime to check your training status. Many times, the monthly emails from Virtus are sent to your SPAM folder so please check there as well. Thank you for helping to keep our children and vulnerable safe.

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 faith community.

PUBLISHER Bishop Francis I. Malone EDITOR Kierstin Richter CONTRIBUTORS Mike Van Vranken Kim Long Mary Arcement Alexander Rosalba Quiroz Polly Maciulski Trey Woodham Kathy Schimschock Jordan Harris Deacon Scott Brandle Adam Ryland Benjamin Luckett

EDITORIAL BOARD Deacon Mike Whitehead Kim Long Kate Rhea Rosalba Quiroz

A Fiancé Appreciation Post from the editor

Kierstin Richter, Editor & Public Relations Director

AH, YES, I love men. Quite particularly, this goober up here.You may know him. He’s the tall, dark, and handsome one always at my side taking pictures at Diocesan events or maybe waltzing into your schools for video projects or maybe you’ve spotted him at your local Chili’s.

November 19 is International Men’s Day, so in this issue, we are focusing on what it means to be a man. I can’t say exactly “what it means to be a man,” and at that, a “good Catholic man,” but I can tell you what makes Ben so easy to love.

First of all, he’s the kindest person I have ever met. He keeps water bottles and snacks in his back seat to give to people under the interstate overpasses holding “ANYTHING HELPS” signs. He asks me, almost every day, “What can I be doing to love you more?”

He’s the most generous person I have ever met. When we spend our Saturday night at Margaritaville and we win an extra $200, he makes sure to put it in the collection basket on Sunday.

He’s the most joyful person I have ever met. He loves to dance (which is why he totally swept me off my feet), and he’s got a beautiful voice (that you will hear loud and clear if you’re sitting in front of us at the 6:00 Mass). He’s an incredible actor and writer with dreams that stretch the sky and the drive to see them through. He’s not only sensitive and sweet, but so attentive to my emotions and my fears that he prioritizes them before his own.

But most importantly of all, he’s the most spiritually driven leader I have ever met. He reminds me when we need to go to adoration, and he makes Starbucks dates out of once a month trips to confession, and always asks how my faith life is going. He always makes sure we pray together every morning and night, whether that’s a morning rosary walk or prayers over the phone, and he is 100% devoted to bringing us both closer to sainthood. And if there’s anyone I trust to get me there, it’s this goofball that I’m marrying in 66 days!

“A man of prayer is capable of anything.”

Saint Vincent de Paul

of

Relics

Hombre

John Berchmans

IT STARTED OUT as a small group of men at a parish where I was pastor. They wanted to form a group of men in the parish who would meet weekly. The format would be an early morning time, not to exceed an hour and a half. It would include breakfast, a presentation, table discussion, and closing in time for the group to avail themselves of confession. We began in earnest in 2005, and I am happy to say that the group is still going strong. The numbers have fluctuated over the year – sometimes even approaching a hundred men – most of the time about 50 – still quite a number for Friday mornings, each week, at 6:30 a.m.

The prayer time would begin with breakfast at 6 a.m., followed by a hymn, and an opening prayer. Announcements would follow – and then a presentation. There would be group discussions with 5-8 men at each table, the end of which one man from each table would give a two minute summary of that table’s discussion.

As 7:20 a.m. approached, the priests in the room (usually me and one other priest) would go to the adjoining Church and to the confessionals – we always had men waiting on us to “turn the confessional light on.”

Ever since arriving in Shreveport – I have wanted to share this experience – and that the group, called “The Men of Faith” has persevered for almost 15 years. As

pastor, I watched as the group, as a whole, changed the complexion of the parish, supported one another with prayers, especially when one of the members was experiencing difficulties or a sharing in their cross. There were times when one of the men was seriously ill, and we used a part of our time together to pray over him, sometimes to anoint him, sometimes to commend him to the Lord. Some of our Men of Faith died during the 15 years – we journeyed with them to the end, and through their transition from this life to the next.

The Church funded this ministry, though the men would help offset the cost of the breakfast.

I write this to you in this edition of the Catholic Connection to “put a bug in your ear” about the possibility of starting a Men of Faith group in your parish. It will make you holier - and I guarantee, will do the same for your parish.

May the Lord make the most of your love for him, Men of God!

Bishop Francis I. Malone, Bishop of Shreveport

“The Men of Faith”

FOCUS GREEK AND VARSITY CATHOLIC FORM VIRTUOUS LEADERS

Varsity Catholic Founder and Director attend “Sport for All” summit at Vatican

BY LESLIE ROWE, FOCUS MEDIA RELATIONS

DENVER, SEPT. 22, 2022 — Mary Gillett remembers how difficult it was to be a student-athlete at Stanford University, where she ran track while earning her biology degree. “Collegiate athletes have a lot of responsibilities that most students don’t face: the spotlight, the intense pressure to perform, the schedule. During my time in athletics, this pressure was very isolating, and I needed people in my corner to share with me the truth of the Gospel.”

After graduating, Gillet decided to give back, and now she serves as a Varsity Catholic missionary at the University of Southern California, helping student-athletes find their calling and value as beloved sons and daughters of God.

As outreach divisions of FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), Varsity Catholic and FOCUS Greek have discipled thousands of students, inspiring them to grow deeper in faith through Bible studies, FOCUS mission trips, local service work, national events and other opportunities.

This fall, Varsity Catholic and FOCUS Greek missionaries will encounter tens of thousands of students on campus, encouraging them to embody the servant leadership of Christ. By 2027, FOCUS expects that around 45,000 students will have been involved with Varsity Catholic and FOCUS Greek. Many of these students will be leaders in business, politics and the Church; encountering them during their pivotal college years has far-reaching effects for communities, families, parishes and companies.

VATICAN “SPORT FOR ALL” INTERNATIONAL SUMMIT

Thomas Wurtz, founder and director of Varsity Catholic, is one of about 200 delegates invited to the Vatican Sept. 29 – 30 to attend the International Summit “Sport for All: Cohesive,

Accessible and Tailored to each Person.” The event is hosted by the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, in collaboration with the Dicastery for Culture and Education and the John Paul II Foundation for Sport. The summit will involve major sports and intergovernmental institutions and organizations and build on the October 2016 event, “Sport at the Service of Humanity” (which Wurtz also attended) and the June 2018 document, “Giving the Best of Yourself.” The aim is to promote the social and inclusive dimension of sport in society, especially when it encapsulates an authentically Christian spirit. It is a response to the Holy Father’s encouragement of a sport that is socially responsible and his appeals to foster sport as a means of human, educational and spiritual growth.

Wurtz is co-host of the Man Catholic Podcast, which speaks to men about living as a Christian man in our current day and age. Their interviews include men from all walks of life, including Fr. Mike Schmitz, Dr. Andrew Swafford and several episodes with MLB pitcher Trevor Williams discussing faith, sport and family life.

VARSITY CATHOLIC

Since 2007, Varsity Catholic missionaries have encouraged student-athletes to grow their faith by offering Christian fellowship through Bible studies and discipleship. Most Varsity Catholic missionaries are former student-athletes, so they understand the rigorous schedules and high pressure to perform on the field and in the classroom.

For the 2022 – 2023 academic year, FOCUS has more than 160 trained Varsity Catholic missionaries on nearly 90 campuses, including Texas A&M University and the University of Kansas. Varsity Catholic will host mission camps in Costa Rica and Honduras this academic year. These experiences provide a unique opportunity for student-athletes to facilitate a sports camp while sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

“Discovering the truth of her identity as a daughter of God is the first step to integrating faith and sport. When we have men and women in college athletics who are on fire for the Catholic faith and rooted in their true identity, we will see a ripple effect across campuses and throughout our culture.”

Gillett shared, “Varsity Catholic missionaries are important because often we are the only people telling the student-athlete that who she is does not depend on her athletic performance. Discovering the truth of her identity as a daughter of God is the first step to integrating faith and sport. When we have men and women in college athletics who are on fire for the Catholic faith and rooted in their true identity, we will see a ripple effect across campuses and throughout our culture.”

FOCUS GREEK

In 2009, FOCUS Greek was founded to serve the needs of students involved with the Greek system, which is rooted in the values of community, academics, philanthropy, integrity and friendship. Most FOCUS Greek missionaries were involved in the Greek system themselves while in college. Fraternity and sorority members on campus frequently take on leadership roles within their chapter, in student government and other campus organizations.

More than 180 FOCUS Greek missionaries are serving on 121 campuses for the 2022 – 2023 academic year, including the University of Arkansas, the University of Miami, and the University of Georgia. Many Greek students host Bible studies within their sororities and fraternities. FOCUS Greek mission trips this year will take students to serve and share their faith in locations such as the Dominican Republic and Rome.

“During my senior year at the University of Florida, my life took a dramatic turn for the better when I encountered the Lord after meeting FOCUS missionaries,” said Jackson Parisey, a FOCUS Greek missionary. “My story has truly taught me that the Lord is reaching out to every man at every moment. There are no exceptions. Being in the Kappa Alpha fraternity as a student, I saw the desperate need for men to have a relationship with Jesus. I also saw the great desire for it which was simply misguided. They are searching for Him in worldly things and need someone to help them redirect their gaze.”

Parisey continued, “In Romans 10:14, St. Paul stressed, ‘And how can they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach?’. St. Martin of Tours said, ‘Lord, if your people need me, I will not refuse the work.’ I said a similar thing to the Lord, which is why I am grateful to be with FOCUS Greek serving fraternity men for my third year at the University of Missouri.”

ABOUT FOCUS

FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) is a Catholic apostolate whose mission is to share the hope and joy of the Gospel. FOCUS missionaries encounter people in friendship, inviting them into a personal relationship with Christ and accompanying them as they pursue lives of virtue and excellence. Through Bible studies, outreach events, mission trips and discipleship, missionaries inspire and build up others in the faith, sending them out to live out lifelong Catholic mission wherever they are.

For the 2022 – 2023 academic year, 861 missionaries are serving at 216 locations: 193 campus locations (including eight international campuses and 10 Digital Outreach campuses) and 23 parish locations. By 2027, FOCUS expects to have more than 1,000 missionaries serving in more than 250 locations around the world. FOCUS alumni, now more than 50,000 strong, are living and serving in parishes and communities across the country, including more than 10,000 trained for post-graduate evangelization. An important blessing of a fruitful partnership between the local campus ministry and FOCUS has been the pursuit of religious vocations. Since 1998, more than 1,000 people have entered the seminary or a religious house of formation after involvement with FOCUS on college campuses. Based on past experience, FOCUS expects that number to nearly double in the next five years. FOCUS missionaries are typically recent college graduates who devote two or more years of their post-collegiate lives to reach out to peers on campus.

www.focus.org

PERMANENT ACTIONS FOR TEMPORARY PROBLEMS

Among the top ten reasons for death in men, suicide is ranked number 8. Between the ages of 10 and 34, it’s the fourth leading cause of death.

BY BEN LUCKETT, DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL EVANGELIZATION

INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY is right around the corner, and you may be asking yourself: Why do we need to celebrate men? Why do we have a day for them? Men already make up most of the people in power, they make up most of the Church hierarchy, they’ve already written most of history, they’ve climbed mountains, discovered cures for this and that - it seems that the influence of men is ubiquitous and so is their implicit praise - a day strictly dedicated to men seems excessive. We should instead be trying to lift up those who need the help. However, when I think of International Men’s Day, I don’t think of the success of men. I think of suicide. When we think of the life expectancies of men vs. women, women tend to have the last laugh as they usually live longer. Among the top ten reasons for death in men, suicide is ranked number 8. Between the ages of 10 and 34, the fourth leading cause of death is suicide, and according to the CDC, 47,500 deaths in America in 2019 were caused by suicide79% of those were men.1 What’s most shocking, is suicide is the leading cause of death in men who live in Australia, with four out of every five men committing suicide each day, and according to their statistics, 75% of suicides by men are NOT accompanied by mental health concerns.2 Furthermore, the CDC also illustrates that 12.2 million people have seriously considered suicide, 3.2 million made a plan for it, and 1.2 million attempted suicide - with men more likely to complete their suicidal action than women.

The guy in the grocery line without a ring on his finger and microwavable pizzas in his shopping cart - he’s probably thought of committing suicide before. The man at the gym staring at his phone, working out by himself - he’s probably thought of committing suicide before.The lone boy in the pew - the one praying after Mass that looks like he would make a great priest - he’s probably thought of committing suicide before. I should know - I was all three of these men.

Suicide and a man’s mental health concerns are often very isolating. With common tropes of men being seen as “tough,” and that he should be able to get his own life in order - it’s no wonder that depression among men is oftentimes under diagnosed (perhaps because it is seen as “unmanly” to get help). In 2020, 12% of female Americans went to counseling, that’s 20 million- 8% of males went, that’s 13 million. Furthering this idea of men not seeking help for their mental health, a 2019 Cleveland Clinic report of over 1000 men in America, surveyed that 40% of them were told as children that “Men don’t complain about health issues,”- only 50% of men engaged in preventative care by seeking out routine check ups and 72% of men “would rather do household chores, like cleaning the bathroom or mowing the lawn than go to the doctor.” 3

How many men do you know that when they hurt themselves or have been hurt (emotionally or physically), “just walk it off”?

The guy who dropped a sixty pound dumbbell on his shoulder at the gym - he could have broken a bone - he just walked it off. The guy who stood up on a date and later told his date wanted nothing to do with him - he could have self-esteem and trust issues now - he just walked it off. The guy whose friends went to hang out without him - he could think he’s all alone and no one loves him - he just walked it off. Perhaps you know a guy like this- your dad, your brother, your friend, maybe even you. I do, because I was all of these men.

My shoulder is doing fine now by the way.

The problems men face on a day to day basis, may feel very isolating (especially suicide), but at the same time, every other guy you see on the street is going through, has gone through, or knows someone going through the same issues. Your son, your father, your brother, your boyfriend, your ex, the stranger in line, has more than likely been where I’m talking about. So what can you do to help- and what can you do to help yourself if you’re thinking about suicide?

GET HELP

As most addicts in recovery will tell you, the most difficult and most important step to take, is admitting you have a problem. In this case, not just to yourself - because you already know you have a problem - but to someone else. It’s hard, I know, wondering if that person is going to judge you, if they’re going to think you’re lesser than, if they will think you aren’t the man they thought you were. And to be honest, there are some mean people out in the world, but if I’m being more honest, about 99% of the people out there (according to me), are good. And if you open up to your friend, your girlfriend, your teacher, your priest, whomever, they will be there to help as best they can.

But you can’t rely on just them - most people aren’t professionals at cracking the code on you. Psychologytoday.com is a phenomenal site where you can get so much help. I’ve been to counseling multiple times in my life - I can attest it works! If there’s not someone in your town, most counselors nowadays offer virtual sessions as well. The most important part is reaching out to someone and letting them know what you’re going through. You don’t have to, and shouldn’t, go through life by yourself.

BE OPEN, VALIDATING, AND NON JUDGMENTAL

This is for the ones looking to help. As I stated before, men already don’t feel it’s their duty/right as a man to discuss their feelings. You providing a space and attitude that says, “I’m here for you,” goes miles.

If your son tells you he’s getting bullied in school, don’t just tell him to be tough, listen to him. If your boyfriend is crying in front of you, hug him and let him do it in your arms. If your husband is stressed out of his mind at his job, do something to help take his mind off of it, help him relax. You may not have the answers to his problems, you may not understand why he feels the way you do, but you being someone he can talk to helps.

If your son tells you he’s getting bullied in school, don’t just tell him to be tough, listen to him. If your boyfriend is crying in front of you, hug him and let him cry in your arms. If your husband is stressed out of his mind at his job, do something to help take his mind off of it, help him relax. You may not have the answers to his problems, you may not understand why he feels the way you do, but you being someone he can talk to, helps. You listening, being there for that person, that’s more than half of what that man needs.

KEEP YOUR BOUNDARIES

You are not his psychologist, though. You may feel it is your duty to help whoever is crying in front of you (and I would say do as much as you can), but you are not his psychologist. Now, I’m not saying you should redirect every problem of your guy’s to professional help, but there are certain things that you are not trained in and cannot provide help.

Your husband had a long day at work - hear him out! Your boyfriend is feeling anxious about the future - see how you can help. Your son has self-esteem issues - listen to him. But there are things, such as suicide, that you should open yourself up to hear from your man, but then suggest seeing a therapist. Oftentimes, as I’ve discussed above, men don’t want to seek help. So instead, perhaps finding someone for them could help influence their decision to go to therapy. Offer to drive them there and get food afterwards, offer to schedule the appointment, wait in the lobby of the counseling office while they’re in their session - anything that helps provide comfort

to them, the better. If a man comes to you for help, do not abandon him.

LISTEN

This is for the man reading this- you’ve opened yourself up to someone by now - that’s good. Listen to what they have to say. If they ask if you’d like to see someone, your inclination is going to say “no, i can do this myself,” and look where you are. I know, I’ve been there! Listen to the suggestions that your friends have for you, especially if it is going to see someone, and act on it. Half the battle for us is getting over the misconception that we have to do everything alone, and listening to the solutions of others is part of the other half.

IT’S A PERMANENT ACTION FOR A TEMPORARY PROBLEM

This whole article is a bit doom and gloomy, but I want to try and leave on a positive piece of advice, not only for the one going through any sort of suicidal ideation or mental health scare, but also for the one who isn’t; that piece of advice is this: suicide is a permanent action for a temporary problem.

During my life, in the times that I was going through the toughest parts where I thought suicide would just make everything better, this phrase got me through it. Prayer, food, funny movies, none of these things got me through those nights quite like rehearsing this mantra. No matter how terrible your life gets, no matter how dark your mornings are or how cold

SUICIDE IS A PERMANENT ACTION FOR A TEMPORARY PROBLEM.

the summer treats you, your worst day only lasts a day. To give up at your lowest point, just isn’t fair for your past self who worked so hard to get you where you are now. It’s not fair for when you were a kid who had dreams of becoming an astronaut, a painter, or a president. It’s not fair for the student who sat in that seat in high school and college, studying late nights and into the mornings, working on something so hard on your dreams. It’s not fair for the person sitting in the pew, thanking God for the blessings received that day. And you might say to yourself, much like I did, “well my past self led me to where I am now,” and to that I have to say, a tree doesn’t know how it will grow, only that it does grow.

If you’re looking for a book to read to help you get through tough times, Searching for and Maintaining Peace by Father Jacques Phillippe as well as the Book of Job are wonderful resources.

I won’t make any other assumptions about what you’re going through, but if you or someone you know is on the fringe and needs help, please, reach out for help. Battles are much harder to fight alone.

Footnotes:

1 (henry ford.com)

2 Internationalmensday.info

3 meetmonarch.com

“No matter how terrible your life gets, no matter how dark your mornings are or how cold the summer treats you, your worst day only lasts a day. To give up at your lowest point, just isn’t fair for your past self who worked so hard to get you where you are now. It’s not fair for when you were a kid who had dreams of becoming an astronaut, a painter, or a president. It’s not fair for the student who sat in that seat in high school and college, studying late nights and into the mornings, working on something so hard on your dreams. It’s not fair for the person sitting in the pew, thanking God for the blessings received that day. And you might say to yourself, much like I did, “well my past self led me to where I am now,” and to that I have to say, a tree doesn’t know how it will grow, only that it does grow.”

Birthing Boys, Raising Men

WHEN I WAS a young girl, I asked my mother why did anyone have children since it hurt so much. The answer given was very much the sentiment of the verse from John. The joy of your baby is greater than the labor pain.

She was right…and she was wrong. When anyone hurts our children, when they hurt at all, so do we.

This is illustrated most memorably in the heart-wrenching scene of Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ when Mary flashbacks to a young Jesus falling and skinning his knees. My heart was suddenly in my throat as I immediately connected with Mary in that darkened theater.

As a mother of four sons, that scene has stuck with me.

When my youngest son (now 31) was three, my husband died in a car accident. I felt so ill-equipped to be responsible for raising my sons into men.

The love was not lacking but I knew nothing about being a man, and while it was not a huge thunder-clapping moment

of panic “oh my gosh what do I do” little moments crept in. I forgot to teach one of them to ride a bike…I just forgot. So to remedy the deficiency all of the boys and I went outside and we taught the uncycled son how to ride. Another time one of them was playing baseball on a team. I attempted to give him pointers. Those were my most memorable and most uncomfortable “dad” parenting moments when they were small.

I wanted to raise good, decent, and faithful children who would one day, God willing, be husbands and fathers themselves. I leaned heavily on familiar practices - rosary, mass, homework, reading stories together, having fun, bonding, and doing everything we could as a family unit.

Not long into my single parenting role, I realized I needed help. From that moment forward Mass was seldom missed, God became more primary, and we prayed for a safe journey there and back when leaving for a trip of any length. I clung to the liturgical calendar like a life raft, Advent wreaths, and candles, Epiphany parties (now more properly called 12th Night). During Lent, praying the rosary at night was non-

Kim Long, Saint Mary of the Pines DRE

faithful food

negotiable, as was the cessation of television until we broke the fast with an old VHS copy of Jesus Christ Superstar. Our pastor, Fr. Antony, who hailed from India, often accepted our Thanksgiving and Easter dinner invitations. In short, a normal Catholic childhood as far as I could tell ( since I did not grow up Catholic). So how did it all play out…some successes, some less successful moments, and the normal twists, turns and disappointments parents and children pass back and forth all the days of our lives. Not every dream became a reality, and not every nightmare lasted until dawn, we got on with living, teaching, and learning from one another. They are all adults now, some married, some not,

I share this story with you in case you are struggling alone (in any way), and doubt that you are up to the task at hand, whatever it may be. You are! The rhythm of the liturgical year, the constancy of the rosary, and the power of love, rooted in God, are the most powerful tools I have ever known. I doubted I would be able to raise those boys into good and decent men. Did I miss things…absolutely but with God’s help we made it through a difficult time. So can we all!

some have children, and some do not. Every Sunday when possible, family dinner happens, and our Christmas crowd has changed due to family deaths, marriages, grandkids, and relocations.

We help one another, we argue sometimes, we disagree sometimes, we cheer one another on, and at times, we take one another to task. We pray for each other and extended family and friends. I always wanted a normal family - it was a striving where I expounded much of my energy. In the end, I realized normal is a bit of a myth; all of our work, our learning was aiming us toward the real goal, being faithful to God and one another.

So, are we perfect? Heck no. Was I always a peaceful, Catholic mom with a veil and rosary in hand? Heck no. I can raise my voice with the best of them. Did they always behave as I wished? Forget it! I have literally walked the floors praying the rosary and crying my eyes out. Have we ever given up on each other? We have come pretty close but thanks be to God, we have not.

My sons are not perfect, but thanks be to God, there is so much goodness in them and much gratitude for God’s hand in our lives.

The Communion of Saints…especially St. Joseph, St. Michael, St. Brendan, St. Patrick, and yes, St. Monica (she came into play later!)

And finally, believe it or not, the spiritual works of mercy continue to be a wonderful blueprint for family life - admonish the sinner, instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, comfort the sorrowful, bear wrongs patiently, forgive all injuries, pray for the living and the dead.

This month is not a recipe per se, but here are some resources I found so valuable on my journey.

The Bible (no-brainer)

Praying for Our Adult Sons and Daughters John Boucher

A Mother’s Manual A Francis Cooms, SJ (I am on my 3rd copy)

Not every dream became a reality, and not every nightmare lasted until dawn, we got on with living, teaching, and learning from one another.

MADE IN HIS OWN IMAGE

I WONDER WHAT it was like for Adam in the very beginning, before Eve was created. Since I am neither a Bible scholar nor a time traveler, I decided to come up with my own hypothesis through imagination along with scripture that speaks about Adam. Here is what we do know about the beginnings of Adam prior to Eve:

Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature. Genesis 2:7

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” Genesis 1:26

Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” Genesis 2:18

Unfortunately, scripture does not add a whole lot about Adam before Eve. I imagine Adam waking to God’s presence. How amazing is that! It’s hard to fathom the enormity of that moment. Then again, I wonder was God “God” to him? For us descendants of Adam, the thought of waking up to God is beyond words, but we are clearly not God’s first creation. I believe Adam definitely knew of God’s omnipotence, but I also feel he may have seen God as his friend. After all, is that not part of God’s reasoning for creating man, to have a companion of sorts? Although God did not need man as a companion, I believe He desired man, hence creation. God created Adam perfectly without sin. He was naked but not ashamed (Gen.2:25). Before Eve, Adam wandered the Garden of Eden where he wanted for nothing.

Scripture is not very clear regarding exactly how long Adam was alone prior to Eve. One Bible scholar stated 56 years, while another said it was mere hours. Either way, we know he was initially alone with God for some time. Imagine having literally everything you will ever need right in front of you 24/7, and the only thing you need to do is love and obey God. God met all of Adam’s needs, and He was his friend. While it all sounds amazing, God knew Adam needed another kind of companion - a human companion. More specifically, a female companion. I obviously do not know this for certain, but I believe God knew prior to Adam’s creation that he would need human contact, human love, and human intimacy.

Men today still need human contact, love and intimacy, namely from women. I not only have a husband, father, two brothers and eleven nephews but I have also counseled men for 20 years now. Here are just a few things I have come to know and understand about the “overall” man: (note there are

mary’s mission

exceptions): they are simple (please do not confuse this with stupid), literal, they have the same number of emotions as women but show few, they are linear thinkers, they have fewer thoughts than women, they place respect above love, they are innate providers, they often feel weak when they are unable to fix problems (especially those related to their wife or girlfriend), they avoid vulnerability, they are innate protectors, and they are proud.

One significant issue I have counseled men on is the huge amount of stress they place on themselves as husband, provider, and/or father. Even though many households are dual income, I still encounter a number of men struggling with the stress of providing for their family.

Men are innate providers and protectors. When they feel they are failing in either area, the stress begins to mount. In my September article, I mentioned that middle-aged white males are the highest among completed suicides. Part of that reason stems from the lies men come to believe as their truths regarding themselves, namely that they are failing their wife or girlfriend and/or children. When a man believes he is failing in one or all areas of his life, he has emotions (remember men have the same number of emotions as women) that he is not comfortable sharing so therefore he holds them inside where they fester and grow until they have no more room, hence suicide or other destructive behaviors. God did not create us to be trash compactors; rather He wants us to bag up our “trash” and throw it out!

My brothers in Christ, I have a call to action for you that is quite simple yet very challenging. It is this: talk to someone. Tell them what you are thinking about regarding yourself, life, everything. Tell them your feelings even if you think you do not have any. Tell them your hopes, your dreams, and your failures. Just simply talk. Here is the other part of this call to action: choose this person very wisely. One thing I see both men and women do is choose the “wrong” person to express themselves to, and when this person betrays their confidence it is easy to say, “You see! I told you that you can’t trust people!” When seeking the “right” person, look to a friend, family, partner, pastor, counselor, or coworker. Take the time to find this person and allow yourself to be vulnerable. I feel so confident in this suggestion that I can promise you that you will feel better. Almost instantly. Now, stop reading and start talking!

BY LESLIE ROWE, FOCUS MEDIA RELATIONS

DENVER, OCT. 12, 2022 — Every person is being called. Not by the world, but by Someone not of this world. Not merely to survive, but to thrive in His abundance. Not for empty desires, but for the fullness of His promise of eternal life.

FOCUS invites people of all ages to leave old things behind and answer a new call to greatness, holiness, joy and mission by experiencing “SEEK23: You Are Called.” This five-day event, hosted by FOCUS, will take place at the America’s Center Convention Complex in St. Louis, Jan. 2 – 6, 2023. Through fellowship, prayer, world-class speakers and entertainment, participants will be inspired to “Fear not; rise, He is calling you” (Mk 10:49). The FOCUS Catholic YouTube channel features a SEEK23 playlist with inspiring videos about the impact of SEEK and what to expect at SEEK23.

“SEEK touched my heart in places I didn’t think it could,” said Abraham Guerrero, a student at Texas Tech University. “SEEK inspired me to grow in my faith and share it with others, such as by serving on a FOCUS mission trip to the Dominican Republic this year. It showed me a path towards stewardship and has given me a community from around the U.S.”

SEEK is the only Catholic conference of its size diving into the heart of the Gospel and exploring how to answer Christ’s call in every moment. More than 135,000 people have joined FOCUS for national events over the past 25 years. In just the past two years, more than 50,000 participants experienced SEEK through virtual, regional and local gatherings on campuses, at parishes and in homes, drawing them into a deeper encounter with Christ and increasing their zeal for evangelization.

“SEEK cuts through obstacles that prevent us from encountering the Father’s love. It sets the stage to address questions that otherwise would be lost in the busyness of our world,” said Andy Meza, who attended a regional SEEK22 event as a student at Texas State University. Meza is now a firstyear missionary serving at Stephen F. Austin State University. “SEEK22 convicted me of the truth of the Gospel and helped highlight its relevance today. That conviction is what led to my desire to bring Christ to my fraternity brothers and fellow classmates. Those experiences evangelizing my peers are what led to my decision to apply to be a FOCUS missionary.”

SEEK21 and SEEK22 launched more regular campus Bible study participants into discipleship than any previous conferences. FOCUS projects that more than 100,000 people will attend a FOCUS conference in the next five years.

FOCUS will launch its 25th anniversary celebration at SEEK23, giving gratitude to God for His many blessings and with hopeful expectation for the future. The anniversary celebration will culminate at SEEK24.

PRAYER, SACRAMENTS, FELLOWSHIP AND ENTERTAINMENT

SEEK23 attendees will step away from daily distractions and participate in prayer, adoration, Scripture and the sacraments celebrated by hundreds of priests—including Timothy Cardinal Dolan, who will be an impact speaker, and Msgr. James Shea, who will be a concurrent speaker. Several bishops plan to attend, including Archbishop Samuel Aquila (Denver) and Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski (St. Louis).

“SEEK, for me, in a word, is discovery,” explains Cal State University Fullerton Chaplain Fr. Florante Moren. “It is discovering what else we can do and how we can grow our faith deeper. It is discovering ways to engage more of ourselves in a divine relationship with the Lord.”

Exclusive concerts, contests, sponsor activities and more will provide entertainment and foster opportunities for fellowship. SEEK23 gives people the chance to share the experience and dive deeper into topics that really matter alongside those who are at the same stage of their journey of faith.

SESSIONS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS, POSTCOLLEGE ATTENDEES, MINISTRY STAFF AND MORE

Along with the Collegiate Track, SEEK23 will offer the Ministry Track and the Making Missionary Disciples Track.

Tens of thousands of FOCUS alumni and lay ecclesial leaders long for their parish and diocese to be on fire with the

Catholic faith. The Making Missionary Disciples Track will equip post-college attendees to help transform parishes, dioceses, families and communities through implementing the Church’s vision for missionary discipleship.

Making Missionary Disciples impact sessions at SEEK23 will include talks and workshops from parish evangelization experts on topics such as sharing your testimony, praying with others, accompaniment, evangelization in the parish and family, and much more.

"SEEK22 was an excellent event and helped build up a sense of community in the parish we've been trying to rebuild and restore for the past two years," said Ted Spinelli, executive director of Discipleship and Evangelization at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Winchester, Virginia. The parish hosted a regional SEEK22 event with more than 100 participants. "We had a wide range of ages, and many said they wished their children and grandchildren could have experienced SEEK22 as well. SEEK inspired our parishioners to grow their faith and be courageous about sharing their faith."

The Ministry Track is designed for those interested in creating dynamic and fruitful campus ministries and parish ministries. The SEEK23 Seminarian Experience invites seminarians to be inspired and renew their calling to serve as the hands and feet of Christ—and at the same time, be a present-day witness of the courage, beauty and joy of religious life to collegeaged souls. It will include special talks, get-togethers and more tailored for seminarians.

WORLD-RENOWNED SPEAKERS

Well-known Catholic speakers and catechetical teachers will inspire and encourage participants to seek the heart of Christ’s call and the truth, beauty, goodness and abundance of the Catholic faith. Speakers for SEEK23 include Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT, Fr. Joshua Johnson, Sr. Bethany Madonna, S.V., Fr. Mike Schmitz, Chika Anyanwu, Hilary Draftz, Jason Evert, Paul. J. Kim, Curtis Martin and Dr. Edward Sri.

In addition to Timothy Cardinal Dolan, SEEK23 impact session speakers include Sr. Mary Grace, S.V., Fr. Chase Hilgenbrinck, Fr. Sean Kilcawley, Fr. Agustino Torres, C.F.R., Matt Fradd, Damon Owens, Dr. Jonathan Reyes, Oscar Rivera and Emily Wilson. Many additional speakers and entertainment will be announced soon.

Dozens of previous FOCUS event talks are on the FOCUS Catholic YouTube channel, including Fr. Mike Schmitz’ most popular video ever, “The Hour That Will Change Your Life,” which has garnered more than 2.5 million views.

REGISTRATION

Registration is open at seek.focus.org. The early-bird price through Nov. 1 for an event pass for students at campuses with FOCUS teams is $459. Several options are available for college students and high school students with chaperones. The individual registration price for non-students is $609. Parish groups who buy a bundle of five event passes will receive a sixth pass for free. Special pricing is available for seminarians, deacons, religious, priests and FOCUS staff alumni. American Sign Language interpretation is available when requested within registration. Every registered attendee will receive exclusive live content, entrance to all sessions and entertainment, opportunities for Mass, the sacraments and adoration, and access to exclusive resources and materials, including the SEEK app. After SEEK is over, registrants will be able access the talks for six months, which provides the chance to return to the conference content and continue to bring what they’ve experienced into everyday life.

Those unable to join others in St. Louis can still experience the very best of SEEK and have the opportunity to encounter the Lord alongside thousands of others through several remote options, including Individual Remote Viewer ($75) and Remote Groups ($675 for up to 10 people). The Remote Parish Pack

“SEEK22 was an excellent event and helped build up a sense of community in the parish we’ve been trying to rebuild and restore for the past two years.”

($3,750) includes unlimited registrations for parishioners and access to content up to six months after SEEK.

To keep the momentum going after SEEK23, Curtis Martin and Dr. Edward Sri will host a Lenten Post-SEEK23, 12-week Bible study taking participants deep into the one story that matters most: the story of salvation history.

SPONSORS

SEEK22 Premier Level Sponsors who will be “Sponsors of the Day” include the Augustine Institute, Benedictine College, Seton Teaching Fellows and the University of Mary. Additional Premier Level Sponsors include Ascension, Camp Wojtyla, Catholic Medical Association, Christ in the City, Exodus 90, the Knights of Columbus, the Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart, Spoke Street and Vagabond Missions. Organizations interested in learning more about sponsorships can email sponsorships@focus.org.

ABOUT FOCUS

FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) is a Catholic apostolate whose mission is to share the hope and joy of the Gospel. FOCUS missionaries encounter people in friendship, inviting them into a personal relationship with

Christ and accompanying them as they pursue lives of virtue and excellence.Through Bible studies, outreach events, mission trips and discipleship, missionaries inspire and build up others in the faith, sending them out to live out lifelong Catholic mission wherever they are.

For the 2022 – 2023 academic year, 861 missionaries are serving at 216 locations: 193 campus locations (including eight international campuses and 10 Digital Outreach campuses) and 23 parish locations. By 2027, FOCUS expects to have more than 1,000 missionaries serving in more than 250 locations around the world. FOCUS alumni, now more than 50,000 strong, are living and serving in parishes and communities across the country, including more than 10,000 trained for post-graduate evangelization. An important blessing of a fruitful partnership between the local campus ministry and FOCUS has been the pursuit of religious vocations. Since 1998, more than 1,000 people have entered the seminary or a religious house of formation after involvement with FOCUS on college campuses. Based on past experience, FOCUS expects that number to nearly double in the next five years. FOCUS missionaries are typically recent college graduates who devote two or more years of their post-collegiate lives to reach out to peers on campus. focus.org

The Diocese of Shreveport Welcomes New Director of Development, Mike Oppelt

THE DIOCESE OF Shreveport is proud to welcome Mike Oppelt as our new Director of Development. Oppelt comes to us from Indianapolis, Indiana, where he previously served as owner and president for the Communicators of Indiana - Consulting. He also served as president and CEO of Cornerstone Center for the Arts. Oppelt has a strong background in non-profit fundraising and development, as well as extensive experience working within the Church as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement for the Westside Deanery School System within the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, as well as Our Lady of Providence High School as Director of Development and Institutional Advancement.

Oppelt holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky, as well as post-graduate work at The Disney Institute for Customer Service in Orlando and at Indiana Purdue University. His passion for education continued as he held an adjunct professor position at Bellarmine University, teaching courses on Fundraising Principles and Techniques. He also served as Director of Development for the Louisville Orchestra, and he owned a plant nursery for over eight years!

Not only does Oppelt have a passion for non-profit development, but he also has a strong background in service to the addiction recovery system. He holds certifications in Peer Recovery Coaching II, HIV/AIDS counseling, and Recovery Housing Standards.

Oppelt will be spearheading the 2023 Annual Diocesan Stewardship Appeal this year, raising money for the Diocese of Shreveport to support our many ministries, including those that support our retired and infirmed priests, Hispanic Ministry, Restorative Justice/Prison, and so many other facets of the good work of the Diocese of Shreveport. (As Bishop Malone says, “The gospel is free, but the utilities are not.”)

Everyone please extend a warm welcome to Mike as he joins our Catholic Center team here in Shreveport. Keep him and the future of our diocese in your prayers as he begins his work here.

If you’d like to personally welcome him or have any questions, email him at moppelt@dioshpt.org.

Kierstin Richter, Editor & Public Relations Director

CATHEDRAL OF ST. JOHN BERCHMANS TO HOST RELICS OF ST. PADRE PIO

BY CHERYL H. WHITE, PH.D.

THE CATHEDRAL OF ST. JOHN BERCHMANS will host the relics of St. Padre Pio on Monday, November 14 and Tuesday, November 15. The relics are cared for by the Saint Pio Foundation in New York, and include both first- and second-class relics – crusts of his wounds, a piece of his mantel, gauze with his blood stains (from his stigmata wounds), a handkerchief that belonged to him, and a lock of his hair. The reliquaries are beautiful and will make for a very inspiring display in our Cathedral.

WHO IS ST. PADRE PIO?

St. Padre Pio (Francesco Forgione) was born in 1887 to peasant farmers in Pietrelcina, Italy. He entered the Franciscan Capuchin order at the age of 15 and began studying for the priesthood,

taking the name of “Pio” in honor of Pope Pius I. He quickly became known for his piety and dedication to the Eucharist. St. Padre Pio received the mystical stigmata in 1916 (bleeding from the wounds of Christ), a phenomenon that has been well-documented by numerous witnesses, medical experts, and affirmed by the Vatican. Furthermore, he became known for other extraordinary spiritual gifts, including reports of his ability to “bilocate” and having detailed knowledge of the sins of penitents in the confessional. Interest in Padre Pio’s life made him internationally known during his lifetime, and his piety and charity inspired many. In 1947, a Polish priest, Father Karol Wojtyla, visited Padre Pio, who told him he would rise to the highest office in the Church. Indeed, in 1978, Father Karol Wojtyla was elected Pope John Paul II.

Padre Pio died in 1968, and was canonized in 2002 by Pope John Paul II, whose rise to the papacy was prophetically foretold.

One of St. Padre Pio’s most famous inspirational messages to the world was a simple yet profound admonition to “pray, hope, and don’t worry.”

WHY DO CATHOLICS VENERATE RELICS?

The beautiful practice of venerating (honoring) relics of saints is an ancient devotion in the Church, dating to the time of the Apostles and the early martyrs. Such veneration is an expression of our Incarnational theology, consistent with Catholic teaching that God fully fused Himself with His creation. We honor the dignity and sanctity of all human life, and reserve special honor for those who led extraordinary lives of holiness. Across the centuries, Christians have venerated relics as a way of contemplating the greatest Divine mysteries.

TIMES FOR VENERATION

The relics of St. Padre Pio will be available for public veneration in the Cathedral on Monday, November 14 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon following the school Masses, and again from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Following a 5:30 p.m. Mass in honor of St. Padre Pio, there will be a special presentation on relics and the mystical stigmata in the Cathedral, followed by more time for public veneration from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. The relics will be available again for veneration on Tuesday, November 15 from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon, and from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Following Tuesday’s Mass at 5:30 p.m. there will be a second presentation on the extraordinary life of St. Padre Pio, with reflections offered by Fr. Raney Johnson and Sister AnnaMaria Iannetti. This is a diocesan event, and all are welcome from the surrounding community. Groups planning pilgrimages, including school groups, should contact the Cathedral (Dr. Cheryl White) at 318-221-5296, or by emailing cwhite@ sjbcathedral.org.

CELEBRATING THE MEN AT CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF NORTH LOUISIANA

Kathy Schimschock, Development Director

ON, NOVEMBER 19, International Men’s Day, the world will celebrate all the men in our lives, but every day we celebrate and are thankful for the men at Catholic Charities of North Louisiana. There are four men who make a difference and play active roles as part of the amazing CCNLA staff. These gentlemen show great care in the jobs they do, and compassion for the clients they serve, and they work tirelessly and selflessly giving of themselves inside and outside of the office.

JOE BULGER, CCNLA’s Operations Manager, has been at Catholic Charities 5 1/2 years. He assists our Executive Director, Meg Goorley, with the day-to-day running of the organization. Joe makes sure the organization stays in compliance with various grants, provides basic support and management of technology and facilities, and he recently became a certified HUD Housing Counselor.

Joe moved to Shreveport in 2014 as a full-time missionary with the People of Praise community in the Lakeside-Allendale neighborhood to help to start a school, Praise Academy at Lakeside. Working at Catholic Charities offered Joe the opportunity to continue serving the poor, including many of his neighbors. “It was clear from the start that I was valued and heard, and that I had a role to play on a great team doing good work for those in need,” said Joe. “I love the camaraderie among the staff and being part of a small organization where everyone wears a lot of different hats and supports each other and does what needs to be done.”

PAUL HAND, Accounting Manager, joined the team in August of 2020 when the Pandemic was going strong. He was already familiar with Catholic Charities because he volunteered to teach ESL (English as a Second Language). Later, Paul and his wife became clients of CCNLA while navigating the immigration process. Briana Bianca, CCNLA’s Immigration Attorney, assisted Paul’s new wife, a native of Mexico, with her permanent residency application.

Paul is an avid runner and is his church’s cantor—he attends St. Nicholas Orthodox Church. He feels comfortable working

at Catholic Charities and when Paul announces, “Happy Pay Week,” it is his gentle reminder for the staff to turn in their timesheets. This is how Paul describes working at Catholic Charities: “The organization embodies both excellence and compassion. The knowledge I’ve gained here is incredibly valuable, and the work/ life balance is near unbeatable. I feel that my work is valued from within and out in the community.”

CARL PIEHL has been CCNLA’s Directory of Financial Stability for ten years. After volunteering at Christ the King Catholic Church in Bossier, he was offered a position at Catholic Charities to pair financial literacy classes with emergency services, and cocreate and developed what CCNLA now calls Money $chool®. Carl has taught thousands of participants over the years and is a certified credit counselor and certified HUD Housing Counselor. Being bilingual, he also teaches ESL classes at CCNLA during the evening thru a partnership with Bossier Parish Community College.

According to Carl, “We (CCNLA) are the best stewards of the funds we are given, and we believe that our clients are the sons and daughters of the living God, and they have everything that it takes within them to lift themselves up, they just need knowledge and support.”

JAMIE WORLEY joined the staff at our Monroe office in June of this year and is the Outreach Coordinator. He spends his days building the referral network through community outreach to help individuals with food scarcity issues and assist them with SNAP applications. After a life in retail, sales, and advertising, Jamie stated, “I wanted to do something with my life that made me feel like I was contributing to the betterment of society. I am finally at a job where I am doing something worthwhile with my time.” Since joining the team, Jamie has proven to be an asset at the Monroe office and growing the list of clients CCNLA assists.

*Photos of Bulger, Hand, and Piehl provided courtesy of Harrington House Photographic Studio and Gallery

mike’s meditations

Are you in the Majority?

Mike Van Vranken, Spiritual Director

SOMEONE ASKED ME the other day if I thought the Synod on Synodality was a success. Since it will not end for another year, there is no way to even consider an answer today. But an appropriate question we can ask ourselves now is: “Has my ability to engage in actively listening created a lasting change in how I encounter Christ in today’s world?” The entire purpose of the synod is to allow us to learn to listen.

And we have been especially called to listen to those who have normally been provided little or no voice. It’s not that they are not talking. They’ve been talking, sometimes screaming! They are not heard because we don’t listen; and in some cases, we don’t even know how to listen.

Most of us love to hang with people who look, think, and speak like us. On the surface, there’s nothing wrong with that. However, it’s easy, once we find ourselves in the majority, to ignore those who don’t fit in to our paradigm of how things should be. We keep our distance. And in doing so, we lose our opportunity to serve them, to share with them, to minister to them, to heal them, to accompany them, and to deeply love them. We cut off all access to them and we never hear their cries for dignity, justice, and their longing to be included with us in every way.

Each phase of this synod process gives us opportunities to listen locally, and then, through the summaries of listening sessions in every country, continent, and worldwide, we continue to listen to all whom we have not clearly heard in the past. It’s at this point that we have the spiritual freedom to enter our own inward chapel and visit with God about his deep

desires for us. It is in these quiet, contemplative moments, that we pay close attention to God and discern how he is moving in us. A contemplative practice like this allows us to become more compassionate and humble. This consistent and sacred time with God allows his graces to change us. As you’ve read here before, this synod is not about changing church teaching or rules. It has always been about you and me allowing God to change us.

The change here is when we learn to listen to someone else, according to Matthew 25:40, we have learned to listen to God. Listening to God inspires us to respond in humble, compassionate, and loving ways. When we enter our inner chapel, listening to God, paying attention to God’s movements within us, God is able to continue to form and shape our ongoing conversion so we can be the body of Christ in everyday life. It begins with listening, listening to God, listening to others, then listening to God again, and on and on.

So, if we feel the urge to vocally respond to anything we’ve listened to from the synod, let’s ask God for the grace to keep our mouths shut. This is not the time to reply with our own knowledge of doctrine, bible verses, or positive understanding of what we think is orthodox. We are still in the very early stages of learning to listen, taking it to God, becoming more humble and compassionate, and allowing God to change us. Don’t find yourself in the groups who have dismissed the synod and moved on. Instead, realize this is a perfect time to pause, reflect and actively listen to God speaking to your own heart. This is how we mature spiritually. This is how we grow in our relationship with God. This is how we learn to be humble and compassionate. This is how we evolve into the people God has called us to be.

“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it’s time to pause and reflect” -Mark Twain

DISCERNMENT SELF-TEST

Examining yourself using the 20 qualities or signs below is a good way to begin discernment of priesthood. On each of the items, rate yourself on a scale of 0 – 5. A rating of 0 means you do not possess the sign at all. A 5 indicates that the sign is very evident in your life. The highest possible score is 100. Be completely honest with yourself and rate yourself fairly.

____ 1. I love Jesus Christ and I have a thirst to bring Jesus and his teachings to the world.

____ 2. I am endeavoring to be a believing, practicing Catholic Christian.

____ 3. I am trying to live a life of prayer and I desire a life of prayer.

____ 4. I am trying to serve others and I desire a life of service to others.

____ 5. I feel a desire to be a priest, though it is sometimes stronger than at other times.

____ 6. I have had others tell me that I should be a priest or that I would make a good priest.

____ 7. Prayerful reading of Sacred Scripture leads me to believe I might be called to be a priest.

____ 8. I am endeavoring to live virtuously.

____ 9. I like to be around people and I have sufficient social skills to engage others.

____ 10. I have enough intelligence to complete graduate-level coursework and function as a priest.

____ 11. I think that I have the physical, emotional and psychological stability to become a priest.

____ 12. I am joyful and I have a good sense of humor.

____ 13. I think that I have a “priest’s heart.”

____ 14. I believe that I have the self-mastery to be a good priest.

____ 15. Generally speaking, I have demonstrated stability in life style.

____ 16. People who know me would say I am a Christian gentleman.

____ 17. I have had events happen in my life that seem to be signs pointing towards priesthood.

____ 18. I am usually able to accept both success and failure without losing my peace.

____ 19. I believe that I have a healthy psycho-sexual development and orientation.

____ 20. I am trying to be truly open to the will of God for my life.

_____Total

Tally up your score. Looking good? Email Father Peter Mangum, Vocations Director at fathermangum@yahoo.com. In the meantime, try to develop the qualities that need strengthening. This will make you a much better Catholic man, even if you are not called to become a priest.

CONGRATULATIONS DEACON KELBY TINGLE! ORDAINED TO THE TRANSITIONAL DIACONATE AT THE PAPAL BASILICA OF SAINT PETER IN ROME (VATICAN) SEPTEMBER 29, 2022

Rev. Mario Vizcaíno, Sch. P. Un Hombre Inspirador

de sus innumerables frases sacada de uno de sus documentos del SEPI, “El Reino de Dios es la manifestación de la soberanía de Dios sobre este mundo en su constante lucha contra las fuerzas del mal.

El Padre Mario es un siervo de Dios quien afirma que solo hace lo que Dios nos pide. A sus 88 años, de cuerpo cansado y desgastado por el tiempo, mantiene su mente activa; la semilla que sembró en las más de 30 diócesis solo en Estados Unidos nos inspira a ser el germen que seguirá expandiéndose por todo el mundo.

Cuando me dijeron que la revista dedicaría este mes a los hombres, se me vinieron a la mente varios por quien podría escribir este artículo, como San José, patrón de la familia, del trabajo, y padre adoptivo de nuestro Señor Jesucristo; mi papá quien me cargó en sus brazos cuando pequeña; o algún santo que intercede por nosotros. Sin embargo, no puedo pensar en alguien más apropiado para esta ocasión que nuestro querido Padre Mario Vizcaino, Sch. P, quien tiene ya más de 62 años de vida sacerdotal y aún continúa construyendo y revitalizando el Reino de Cristo.

Aunque el Padre Mario no pertenece a nuestra diócesis, es un sacerdote Escolapio – dedicado a transmitir la fe y educación al pueblo de Dios. El Padre Mario salió de Cuba pequeño con su familia para venir a este país. Ha vivido en Florida la mayoría de su vida, pero ha evangelizado en varios países y servido fielmente a Dios siendo puente entre muchas culturas.

El P. Mario abrió caminos en más de 30 diócesis para el Ministerio Hispano, donde llegaba, se presentaba ante el obispo, y le pedía permiso de comenzar Misa y servicios en español. Algunos obispos le cerraban la puerta, pero nuestro obispo, William B. Friend – cuyos restos están en la catedral de Shreveport, lo recibió con los brazos abiertos en 1987, hace ya 35 años.

Creador del Instituto Pastoral del Sureste en Miami, (SEPI), el P. Mario ha trabajado más de 40 años en este país, conectándonos, enseñándonos a ser “gente puente” entre las muchas culturas representadas, y sobre todo a vivir para los más pobres y necesitados. Nos tomaría más que esta revista para dar una pincelada a su vida, pero les comparto solo una

En las Palabras del Papa Francisco y la manera de vivir del P. Mario, “Debemos ver hacia el pasado con gratitud, vivir el presente con pasión, y tener esperanza en el futuro.” (Papa Francisco). Oremos por nuestro querido padre Mario para que, en sus últimos años de vida, reciba el cuidado y cariño que él a tantos ha brindado.

¡Bendiciones Padre Mario, un hombre fuerte y de gran fe; Shreveport le recuerda con mucho cariño!

CALENDARIO DE NOVIEMBRE, 2022

4-6

Búsqueda: Retiro para adolescentes de 14-17 años. Scottsville, TX 11-13

Experiencia Cristo: Retiro de jóvenes adultos de 18-37 años, Scottsville, TX

Rosalba Quiroz, Directora

Por el Obispo

Esto empezó como un grupo pequeño de hombres en una parroquia donde yo era el párroco. En esta parroquia ellos querían formar un grupo de hombres que se reuniera una vez por semana. La idea era que la junta fuera en el horario de la mañana y no excediera más de una hora y media. Esta junta incluiría desayuno, presentación, tiempo para dialogar en grupos de mesa, y terminaríamos a muy buen tiempo para que los miembros que quisieran pudieran confesarse. Este grupo comenzó formalmente en el 2005 y estoy muy contento de decirles que hoy está más fuerte que nunca. El número de miembros fluctuado en el transcurso de los años-hay tiempo en los que son cien hombres- y la mayor parte del tiempo solo son alrededor de cincuenta. Aun así, 50 es un número grande para un viernes en la mañana, a las 6:30am.

El tiempo de oración comenzaba con el desayuno a las 6a.m., seguido por un himno, y una oración de apertura. Se daban anuncios – y después se hacia la presentación. Había dialogo en grupos entre 5-8 hombres por mesa, y al final un hombre de cada mesa daba el resumen en dos minutos de lo que se dialogó en su mesa. Cuando se llegaban las 7:20 a.m., los sacerdotes del salón (por lo regular éramos otro sacerdote y yo) nos pasábamos a la capilla para hacer confesiones – para entonces ya teníamos hombres en línea esperándonos para confesarse.

Desde que llegué a Shreveport – he querido compartir esta experiencia – y la del grupo llamado, “Hombres de Fe” que ha perseverado por más de 15 años. Como párroco, me di cuenta de cómo todo el grupo, cambió la complexión de la parroquia, se apoyó mutuamente con oración, especialmente cuando uno de los miembros pasaba por dificultades o compartiendo sus cargas y cruces. Hubo momentos en que uno de los hombres estaba seriamente enfermo, y usábamos parte de nuestro tiempo juntos para orar por él, algunas veces para darle la unción de los enfermos, o para encomendárselo al Señor. Algunos de los miembros de Hombres fallecieron durante esos 15 años – pero caminábamos con él hasta el final, y en su transición de esta vida a la próxima.

La Iglesia fundó este ministerio, aunque los hombres cooperaban para el costo del desayuno en las reuniones. Escribo esto en esta edición de la Catholic Connection para “plantarles la idea” sobre la posibilidad de comenzar un grupo de Hombres de Fe en su parroquia. Los hará más santos –y les garantizo, que hará lo mismo por su parroquia. ¡Que nuestro Señor agrande su amor por él, Hombres de Dios!

CRISTO REY: BOSSIER CITY Rev. Fidel Mondragon 318.221.0238 Oficina Domingo 1:00pm Lunes 7:00pm Sabado 6:00pm Coordinador Oscar Gomez 972.567.2710

SAN PASCUAL: W. MONROE Rev. Luis Jost, OFM Domingo: 4:00pm Coordinadora: Lorena Chaparro 318.267.4018

SANTO TOMAS AQUINO: RUSTON Rev. Kevin Mues 318.225.2870 Oficina Domingo 1:30pm Coordinadora: Luz Martinez 318.224.0980

NUESTRA SEÑORA DEL PEPETUO SOCORRO: FARMERVILLE Rev. Luis Jost, OFM Sabados 7:00 pm Coordinadora: Paola Gonalez 817.801.3499

STA MARIA DE LOS PINOS: SHREVEPORT Rev. Mark Watson 318.687.5121 Oficina Domingo 12:30 am Coordinadora: Alma Mendoza 318.678.9306

SAGRADO CORAZON: OAK GROVE 318.428.2983 Oficina, Domingo 1:00pm Rev. Rigoberto Betancurt 318-458-6045 Cell

SAN JOHN THE BAPTIST, MANY Rev. Rigoberto Betancurt 318-256-5680 Oficina primer domingo 1:00pm

SAN PABLO: MINDEN Rev. Rigoberto Betancurt 2do Domingo 4:00pm Coordinadora: Dora Rodriguez 870-904-9137

SAN JOSE: MANSFIELD Rev. Rigoberto Betancurt 305 Jefferson Street Mansfield, LA 71052 3er Domingo 3:00pm

Our Lady of Fatima School

Stephanie Haney, Principal

LEFT: Father John Paul Crispin has been such a ray of sunshine to Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School. He visits with the students. He eats lunch with them and just really connects with them. His school Mass homilies are engaging and get the students really thinking. We are so thankful to have him as our pastor. “God is good all the time!” “All the time, God is good!”

ABOVE: We are so excited to have Mr. Carlton Banner as our school maintenance man. Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School has not had an in-house maintenance man in several years, so his presence is truly a blessing! Mr. Banner is truly a hard worker and always there when we need him! He is already a huge part of the OLF Falcon family! Welcome Mr. Banner!

Saint Joseph School News

SAINT JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL

THE MONTH OF October always seems to mark the point in which the school year really kicks into gear with activities, but it’s the faith traditions and devotions that really make it special. It started on such a lovely note this year when we witnessed SJS alum Kelby Tingle being ordained to the Transitional Diaconate in Rome. We were blessed, too, to be able to see it in real time! We continue to keep him in our prayers and look forward to his Ordination to the Priesthood in 2023!

On Monday, October 3, as St Joseph Church began our part of the Rosary Congress for the Diocese, our students spent their Religion classes in Eucharistic Adoration, and the Middle School classes attended daily Mass and led the Rosary on the hour throughout the morning. Students shared that they appreciated the quiet time of being with our Lord and leading others in the praying of the Holy Rosary.

The very next day was the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, and once again we enjoyed a beautiful evening on the grounds of University Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Catherine Foret hosted a large group of SJS families and St. Joseph Church parishioners - dogs, cats, and even

a rabbit! Fr. Matthew Long offered a beautiful blessing of these precious members of God’s creation, even making a stop in the ICU to bless the sick animals in the care of UVH. SJS student Addyson Sundquist made holy cards for the event, as well, combining St. Francis medals with small cards bearing quotes from the patron saint of animals and ecology.

The following Friday, Oct. 7th, the Feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, our tradition of celebrating with a Balloon Rosary continued with our eighth graders leading the faculty, staff, student body and many parents in a memorable offering of the Sorrowful Mysteries. At the end of the prayer, the balloons have almost always traveled west as they leave us, but this year they wasted no time in heading North and then East, bearing our school colors as they floated through the air. It’s a favorite tradition that just gets better every year.

It’s almost time for All Saints Day, and our Kindergarten classes are working hard to prepare for their big moment: honoring these holy men and women in costume, singing their beloved song, and showing us all what they have learned about their saint selection. Like many schools and parishes, it’s a time-honored tradition. We even see

Polly Maciulski, Middle School Religion

how many of their saints “match up” with our Confirmation saints for this year. The moment makes a great picture, and both the eighth grader and Kindergartener seem to appreciate the meeting.

In addition to these traditions, SJS commissioned a staggering 47 students into our MiniVinny (school conference of Society of St. Vincent de Paul); celebrated our second annual Falcon Fest with great weather, a great crowd and great fun; recognized students who exemplified the Virtues of Self Control and Responsibility; held our first Literati Book Fair; cleaned up and cared for Lullabyland, the infant and toddler section of Forest Park Cemetery; and also took time to enjoy the beautiful change of seasons with Johnny Appleseed Day and trips to Papa Simpson’s farm.

Looking ahead to November, we are preparing for the sixth grade retreat to Forest Park and St. Joseph Cemeteries on All Souls’ Day; National Vocations Awareness Week with our annual Vocations Luncheon, assisting Loyola College Prep’s FAiTH Giveaway by collecting toys; and of course reflecting on the many blessings we have to be thankful for. Here’s what our students had to say:

“I enjoyed Adoration a lot, I say this because I enjoyed it being silent in the presence of Jesus.” -Dayton B.

“It was very peaceful and nice to be in.” -Carter S

“I liked how peaceful it was. I’d like to do it again.” -Charles H

“I enjoyed it more than I thought I was going to, to be completely honest. After saying a couple prayers I felt suddenly relaxed and every muscle in my body eased. I could tell that Jesus was really there with me, alongside Mary. It amazed (me) how real it felt and I really hope we can do this some time again, because it made my whole week.” -Roslyn M.

“I liked it. It was very good and helped me talk to God better. I think if we can we should do it again when we have time.” - Jacob S.

JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOOL NEWS: SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT

JGS SCHOOL TAKES our students' spirituality very seriously. We believe that knowledge of our Lord and Savior is necessary for fulfillment and lifelong happiness. Our students are nourished spiritually each week during school mass and daily in religion. Fr. Mike uses the school Mass as an opportunity to not only teach about the Mass itself, but to also expand our students' knowledge of other fundamental Catholic traditions. He explained the importance and significance of Adoration during the school Mass at JGS recently. He spoke about the Eucharist and the monstrance and how these corresponded with the act of Adoration.

Our 5th grade religion teacher, Mrs. Frantz, has been studying the Emmaus Walk with her students. They held an outdoor classroom with a small group setting to read and then discuss the importance of the Emmaus Walk and how it corresponds with our walk with Jesus today.

It is our hope that the knowledge our students gather in the classroom and at Mass will carry them throughout their lives with a reverence and awe of Jesus and His teachings.

Loyola College Prep News

Jordan Harris, Loyola College Prep Director of Communications

Flyer Community Invests More than $184,000 in Loyola College Prep for its Second Giving Day

THE LOYOLA FAMILY joined together on Sept. 22 and raised over $184,000 during its second Flyer Giving Day. Close to 400 gifts contributed to the day’s success from donors that included alumni, faculty, parents, current students, grandparents, board members, and community partners. Last year Flyer Giving Day raised $103,000, and the Loyola team was hopeful they would surpass that amount.

“The Flyer Family is truly special, and that is evident in how everyone came together yesterday to give back to our school” said John LeBlanc, Loyola College Prep Principal.

“From current parents who already pay tuition to dedicated alumni who consistently give, to new donors and even some of our current students, we were truly amazed with the generosity of our community. I am not surprised to see how

our community rallied together, but I am overwhelmed with gratitude for their dedication to our school and students.” For the second Flyer Giving Day, donors could choose where they wanted their dollars to make the greatest impact: Annual Fund, Community Scholarship, or Classroom Updates. All gifts to the Annual Fund are applied to the school’s most pressing needs and benefit current students in all aspects of their educational experience, in addition to providing resources for academic, technological and athletic support.The Community Scholarship Fund helps supplement families’ financial responsibility beyond what is available from our limited endowment funds. Loyola is committed to providing all academically qualified students a quality education regardless of their ability to pay full tuition.

Saint Frederick High School News

Jim Beadles, the regional Director for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in our diocese, was on hand for our September meeting to officially install all our members into the society. Everyone prayed together the commissioning ceremony which invited members to deepen their commitment to the charitable service mission of SVDP, to grow in holiness, and deepen their spirit of friendship with one another. Members were presented with a lapel pen, an embroidered hat, and a certificate of membership. We were blessed to also have Joanne Crone and Deanery president Cary Petty in attendance. They were delighted to have an opportunity to meet our students. We are all looking forward to a very active school year of service!

St. Frederick Students of the Month for the 2022-2023 school year are based on ten characteristics in students that the International Baccalaureate Program calls the IB Learner Profile. Together, these attributes contribute to developing ideal students and citizens: Inquirer, Thinker, Caring, Balanced, Knowledgeable, Open Minded, Risk taker, Communicator, Reflective and Principled.

The Learner Profile attribute for the month of August was OPEN-MINDED: “We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience.”

The Learner Profile attribute for the month of September is CARING: “We show empathy, compassion, and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.”

Our goal is to recognize outstanding students in a variety of areas, including scholarship, leadership, service, and faith. It is our hope that our students of the month will continue to exhibit these qualities and serve as examples to the entire St. Frederick community.

PAULA PHAM, 2022 HOMECOMING QUEEN

Deacon Scott Brandle, Adam Ryland, IB Director

STUDENT OF THE MONTH PROGRAM RECOGNIZES OUTSTANDING STUDENTS

JIM BEADLES, REGIONAL DIRECTOR TO INSTALL MEMBERS INTO SVDP SOCIETY

to our 2022 Homecoming Queen, Miss Paula Pham!

St. John Berchmans School News

Trey Woodham, Principal

SAINT JOHN BERCHMANS INTRODUCES NEW “DADS CLUB”

The Cathedral of Saint John Berchmans Catholic School has a new club, a unique group that literally grew from a “bunch of guys” into an officially recognized group called Dads Club. We meet when we need to get together to address issues that we see from a specifically Dad perspective and use old and new ways to get the message out that the Dads of SJB are a force for good in our school. Last year, our first year, we hosted a Lenten Friday fish fry (Delicious. Sold Out. No Leftovers. Seriously Good Fish.) We served it in the cafeteria lunch line while the official lunch ladies were attending a staff luncheon, and we held a few social events including, but not limited to, ax throwing (not at each other, but at specific, identified targets), dining out, and planning sessions.

Much like the ax, the Dad is an underused but amazingly effective tool. Here at SJB we want to harness the power of a father and band together for the good of the school. We have outreach activities planned to range from social to service, and we want all fathers and father figures in our school to feel welcomed and know there is a place in our school’s culture just for dads. Scripture tells us in Corinthians 12:12, “As a body is one though it has many parts… so also Christ.” So also, is our school. We are students, teachers, chefs, principals, custodians, aids, extended families, office staff, siblings, moms…and dads. We look forward to the upcoming months and want to extend a sincere welcome to all our members and to let every person at our school know that they are valued, and that their unique talents are recognized. From students to teachers, from Parents Association volunteers to Science Olympiad Mentors, all are welcome. Come visit our school and see who we are. If you are an alum, come back and visit. If you are a current family, check out our website or call the office for opportunities to get involved. And if you are a Dad, we have just the club for you.

HOMECOMING SEASON

It is Homecoming Season at ULM! One of our Catholic Campus Ministry

Seth Guidry, was nominated for Homecoming court and some of our

the

of him,

GRANT AWARD: Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) has been awarded of a $5,000.00 grant award to increase diversity membership and service from the National Council of the United States SVdP. Janis Haynes, Conference President, submitted the grant application and received notice of the award from Pam Matambanadzo, MultiCultural Diversity Committee Chair and national Board of Directors Diversity Liaison.

Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament is a vibrant and vital part of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Shreveport, and this grant will assist them in strengthening their membership and mission. The National SVdP office has provided the Diversity Recruitment Grant as a tool to help build the Society’s capacity in the communities they serve. It is the Society’s hope that through this grant Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Conference will be able to reinforce the tremendous efforts they make in helping their friends in need daily.

Pictured from left to right are SVdP members: Terry Salvant, Dr. Linda Hartwell, Debra Weber, Connie Weber Canada, Mary Blalock and Janis Haynes. Members not pictured include: Nadalie Thomas, Charles Thomas, Melvin Edwards, David Butler, Dessie Adger, Bettye Frierson, Martha Coutee, Mary Randolph, Josephine Long and Robert Perry.

Bishop Malone offered Mass for the Vietnamese Catholic Community on Sunday, October 9th in St. Michael the Archangel Chapel at 2:00 PM; followed by a reception and meeting with the community.

OUR LADY OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH CONFERENCE OF THE SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL AWARDED OF $5,000.00 GRANT

Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Shreveport, LA held it’s Annual Pro-Life Mass “Because We Chose Life” Sunday, October 2, 2022 at 10:30am.

Bishop Francis Malone served as our main celebrant along with Father Mark Watson and Deacon Clary Nash. In addition, Bishop Malone held a photo session with our children and youth during the reception in Gabriel Hall. The Knights of Columbus 4th Degree also participated during this special mass. They are always distinguished, impressive and amazing!

Choir Director Stephanie Carr, Cantor, Lisa Wise along with the youth choir provided joyful and wonderful music during this special Mass. The Youth of Sacred Heart did an awesome job serving during Mass and they did an excellent job assisting Bishop Malone.

Our kind, giving and magnificent parishioners provided baby gifts, donations and gift cards for our “Embrace Grace Baby Shower”. All proceeds were given to Mary’s House. It was a joyful and memorable day for “The Little Church with the Big Heart!”

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CHURCH CELEBRATES

SACRED HEART CHURCH PRO-LIFE COMMITTEE: Father Mark Watson Deacon Clary Nash Mary Nash Pat LaCour Agnieszka Chander Stephanie Carr Walt Recker Jean Woods

70 years

SACRED HEART OF JESUS CHURCH, SHREVEPORT CELEBRATES ANNUAL PRO-LIFE MASS

On Saturday, October 15, local Catholics gathered at A.C. Steere Park for a public rosary for the 2022 Public Square Rosary Crusade on the 105th Anniversary of Fatima.

around the diocese

PASCHAL CHURCH CELEBRATES TIME

TRANSITION OVER PAST YEAR

BY KATHY WALLACE

St Paschal Catholic Church has been through a time of transition in the past year in a half. Our Franciscan Pastor, Fr. Frank Coens was called back to mission work in St Louis last September 2021. We then received a Bishop appointed interim priest, Father Pike Thomas from September 2021 through May 2021. During this time, we as a parish family prayed for our next pastor. We prayed that he may be blessed with the gifts that our community needed, and that we would welcome and support him when he came. God did indeed answer our prayers. We were blessed with Father Jerry Daigle Jr. This is his first parish as pastor, and we are grateful for the gifts he brings.

Father Jerry was installed as Pastor, on August 27th by Bishop Malone at the beginning of the Sacrament of Confirmation mass, and it was a joyous celebration. While settling into his new position as pastor meeting with all the different ministries he has never been too busy to be of assistance and to serve. Father Jerry's energy and commitment to this parish is one based on the love and care of a faithful servant sent by God to the answered prayers of our parish families.

Below are pictures of the events our parish has celebrated in the four months he has been pastor here, 1.Father Jerry being installed by the bishop, during our Confirmation Mass, with the celebration that followed.

2.Faith Formations "Kids Night Out", for pre- K through 5th grade, was a fun evening where Father Jerry helped with arts & crafts for little hands, along with a spirited game of Simon Says!

3. Father Jerry received a dispensation by the bishop to confirm 3 young people who were ill at the time of Confirmation making it a very special mass for each one of them.

4.He went on to assist our seniors at the Senior Luncheon where he blessed, served, and enjoyed an afternoon of fellowship with those in our parish over the age of 80.

5.Father Jerry even took the time to offer a pet blessing to all our pets, cats, dogs, chickens, and even goats.

Thanks to our Recent Donors:

(032) Diane Tiller Gainey ($2000) (023) Van or Patricia McGraw ($100) (032) Mr. Randy G. Tiller ($1000) (035) Mrs. Rosemary C. Ward ($500)

Completed Burses:

(001) Fr. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse #1 ($10000) (006) Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze Memorial Burse #1 ($10000) (010) Memory of Rita Scott from the John Scott Family Burse ($10000) (011) Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #1 ($10000) (012) Jack E. Caplis, Jr., Memorial Burse ($10000) (013) Mary Evans Caplis Burse ($10000) (014) Bob & Peggy

SEMINARIAN BURSES

Semmes Memorial Burse ($10000)

(019) Margaret Glenn Memorial Burse ($10000) (020) Dr. James V. Ward Memorial Burse ($10000) (026) Sheryl Seal Sweeney Memorial Burse ($10000) (027) Rev. Richard Lombard Memorial Burse ($10000) (027) Rev. Richard Lombard Memorial Burse #2 ($10000) (031) Pearl Heck & Leona Boudreaux Memorial Burse ($10000) (033) Beryl K. & Joseph D. Ozenne Memorial Burse ($10000) (040) Father Isidore Armand Quémerais, Servant of God Burse ($10000) (041) Father Jean Pierre, Servant of God Burse ($10000) (042) Father Jean-Marie Biler, Servant of God Burse ($10000)

(043) Father Louis-Marie Gergaud, Servant of God Burse ($10000) (044) Father François Le Vézouët, Servant of God Burse ($10000)

Incomplete Burses: (045) Sister Martinette Rivers Memorial Burse ($100) (001) Fr. Mike Bakowski Memorial Burse #2 ($1350) (002) Joseph & Antoinette Bakowski Memorial Burse ($3150) (003) Sam R. Maranto Memorial Burse ($1650) (004) Kathryn Atherton Cook Memorial Burse ($350) (005) Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Burse ($1200) (006) Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze Memorial Burse #2 ($3832.12) (007) Dr. Carol Christopher Memorial Burse ($1200)

(008) St. Jude Parish Burse ($6218) (009) St. John Berchmans Knights of Columbus Council 10728 Burse ($1550) (011) Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #2 ($4300) (015) Bishop’s Seminarian Burse ($3910) (016) Elaine Malloy Frantz Memorial Burse ($1000) (017) Msgr. George Martinez Knights of Columbus Council 1337 Burse ($8021.57) (018) Knights of St. Peter Claver Council 144 Burse ($1180) (021) Rev. Edmund “Larry” Niehoff Memorial Burse ($2000) (022) Rev. Blane O’Neil, OFM Memorial Burse ($1250) (023) Msgr. Edmund J. Moore Memorial Burse ($1120) (024) Rev. Joseph Puthupally Memorial Burse ($1100)

(025) Kathleen Hightower Memorial Burse ($400) (028) Friends-n-Faith Burse ($300) (029) Rev. Kenneth Williams Memorial Burse ($200) (030) Ottis and Anne Krupa Littlejohn Memorial Burse ($5000) (032) Madeline and Joe Tiller Memorial Burse ($4000) (034) Joseph B. and Lucille Provenza Cordaro Burse ($6000) (035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward Burse ($8500) (036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse ($1700) (037) Manuel & Catherine Licciardi, and John & Beverly Miller Burse ($4000) (038) The Malone Family Burse ($250) (039) St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Knights of Columbus Council 9260 Burse ($250)

The Diocesan Seminary Burse Program provides the faithful of North Louisiana the opportunity to invest in the education and formation of our seminarians into holy and effective priests to serve the Diocese of Shreveport. Interested in contributing to or establishing a burse? You can establish and name a burse with a donation of at least $250 or you can contribute any amount to a burse simply by designating its name when the contribution is made. Contributions may be mailed to the Office of Church Vocations, Diocese of Shreveport, 3500 Fairfield Avenue, Shreveport, LA 71104. Be sure to note the name of the burse in the memo line. Burses are completed at $10,000.

NOVEMBER 1

All Saints Day

NOVEMBER 2 All Souls Day

NOVEMBER 4

Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop (Memorial)

NOVEMBER 9

The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

NOVEMBER 10

Saint Leo the Great NOVEMBER 11

St. Martin of Tours

NOVEMBER 12

St. Josaphat, Bishop and Martyr

NOVEMBER 13

Saint Francis Xavier Cabrini, Virgin (Memorial)

NOVEMBER 17

St. Elizabeth of Hungary. Religious

NOVEMBER 18

Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne, Virgin

NOVEMBER 23

Blessed Miguel Agustin Pro, Priest and Martyr

FOURTH THURSDAY Thanksgiving Day

NOVEMBER 21

St. The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

NOVEMBER 22

St. Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr

NOVEMBER 27

First Sunday of Advent

NOVEMBER 2 11:00 AM

All Souls Day Mass with Bishop Malone @ Saint Joseph Cemetery, Shreveport (See the diocesan website for a complete schedule of the Blessing of the Graves).

NOVEMBER 6 8:30 AM

6th Annual National Black Catholic History Celebration Mass @ Saint Mary of the Pines Church

The Black Catholic Committee at Saint Mary of the Pines Catholic Church will celebrate its 6th Annual Black Catholic History Month celebration. The Mass celebration will be followed by a reception in Vandegaer Hall. This year, we will honor Very Reverend Rothell Price and three religious orders that have had a significant impact in the formation of black priests. The orders include: the Society of Divine Word, the Society of African Mission and the Society of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart.

NOVEMBER 11-13

Retreats for Young Women @ Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center

Retreats for Young Women are specifically designed for any woman age 21-44. During this weekend, you will learn different ways to hear the Lord’s voice and how to prayerfully discern what He wants from and for you. The Eucharist and Reconciliation will be available. (www.retreatsforyoungwomen.org)

where is bishop malone this month?

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST

All Saints Day Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 8:15 AM

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND

All Souls’ Day Mass & Blessing of the Graves; St. Joseph Cemetery, Shreveport; 11:00 AM

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6TH

6th Annual Black Catholic Mass; St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 8:30 AM

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH

Priests Retirement Committee Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 11:00 AM

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH

St. Mary of the Pines Catholic Church 50th Anniversary Speaker Series (Spanish Version); St. Mary of the Pines Church, Shreveport; 6:00 PM

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH

Catholic Charities of North Louisiana Joint Meeting: Governing Board of Directors & Members Board; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 12:00 PM

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10TH

Dalton Trust Board Meeting; Bayou DeSiard Country Club, , Monroe; 12:00 PM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH Priests Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 1:30 PM

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH –FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Meeting; Baltimore

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24TH Thanksgiving Day Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 9:00 AM

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27TH Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 8:00 AM

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH

Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops Meeting; Baton Rouge; 10:00 AM

CATHOLIC CONNECTION

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

Catholic Connection USPS 024-824 is published monthly except for July by the Diocese of Shreveport, 3500 Fairfield Ave., Shreveport, LA 71104. Periodicals Postage PAID at Shreveport, LA 71102. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Catholic Connection, 3500 Fairfield Ave, Shreveport, LA 71104.

PHOTO OF THE MONTH: The St. Paschal Church Youth Group congratulates Deacon Kelby Tingle on his ordination to the diaconate!