June 2024 - The Body of Christ

CATHOLIC CONNECTION

The Body of Christ

CATHOLIC CONNECTION

PUBLISHER

Bishop Francis I. Malone

EDITOR

Kirsten Shrewsberry

EDITORIAL BOARD

Cover photo is the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Christophe Cardinal Pierre, and Bishop Malone concelebrating the Red Mass. Photo by Kirsten Shrewsberry, Diocesan Director of PR.

Volume 33, Number 11

THE BODY OF CHRIST

CONTRIBUTORS

Very Reverend Mark Watson

Maggie Rocconi

Delia Barr

Reverend David Endres

Austin Young

Nathan Lirette

Tristan Frisk

Mike Van Vranken

Very Reverend Monsignor Rothell Price

Mary Arcement Alexander

Reverend Kevin Mues

Karen Dill

Karla Alvarez

Jill Wier

Polly Maciulski

Amy Fakhre

Cassandra Key

Tessa Holyfield Hoff

Sharon McCabe

Jordan Harris

Diane Libro

Lucy Medvec

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: Kirsten Shrewsberry Email: doseditor@dioshpt.org

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

The Diocese of Shreveport complies with Virtus’ Protecting God’s Children program. (www.virtus.org) Online sessions are 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 Arcement Alexander, Diocesan Victim Assistance Minister at 318-588-2120.

Thank you for helping to keep our children and vulnerable adults safe.

The Catholic Connection is funded in part by a grant from Catholic Home Missions and donations to the Catholic Service Appeal.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Catholic Connection is a monthly publication funded by your Catholic Service Appeal, mailed to every known Catholic household in the Diocese of Shreveport. Our mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of our Catholic faith among the faithful. We seek to foster the application of Christ’s teachings and our church’s mission in our daily lives and to encourage our sense of Catholic identity within our family, parish, and faith community.

Very Rev. Msgr. Matthew T. Long

Dcn. Charles Thomas OFS

Karla Alvarez

Rev. Kevin Mues

Rosalba Quiroz

HAVE YOU EVER DELVED INTO THE PROFOUND STORY OF THE EUCHARISTIC MIRACLE IN BOLSENA, ITALY? This historical event, which you might not be familiar with in detail, led to a momentous solemnity: The Most Holy Body and Blood, also known as the Feast of Corpus Christi.

The miracle took place in 1263 in the small Italian town of Bolsena. A priest, struggling with doubts about the true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, found his skepticism dispelled in a moment of divine intervention. As he said the words of consecration, the Eucharist began to spill blood onto the altar and corporal, causing him and all parishioners present to stop in awe of the miracle before them.

The priest traveled to the nearest large town, Orvieto, where the pope at the time, Pope Urban IV, was residing, and explained what happened. Eventually, that Eucharistic Miracle led to the establishment of the Feast of Corpus Christi, which is celebrated worldwide, typically with Eucharistic processions.

Last October, I had the opportunity to travel to Italy to celebrate my mom's birthday. We traveled all over central Italy but spent several nights in a small town called Orvieto. Orvieto is a beautiful city in Umbria with a stunning cathedral or Duomo, one of Europe's most outstanding examples of Romanesque Gothic architecture. I first heard of Orvieto from a friend who is an architect who did a study abroad focused in Orvieto and studying the Duomo heavily. The Duomo di Orvieto is the home of the linen cloth from the Eucharistic Miracle, with the relic preserved inside the altar in the cathedral. While in Orvieto, we had the opportunity not only to pray before the altar that houses this holy relic but also to visit the church of St. Christina in Bolsena where the miracle took place.

The Eucharist is just one of the many ways we can define "The Body of Christ." The Body of Christ also refers to a priest when they are acting "in persona Christi" and, of course, to us as a people. Together, we are the Body of Christ. This month has been special to me because I've greatly enjoyed collecting these many aspects of the Body of Christ to share with you.

If the Catholic Connection this month has stirred something within you, I invite you to consider a day trip to Baton Rouge for the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage. This event, a part of the National Eucharistic Revival, offers a wonderful opportunity to deepen your spiritual journey without taking a week off for the National Eucharistic Congress in July in Indianapolis. However you choose to celebrate, I encourage you to set aside some time this month to reflect on the profound meaning of the Body of Christ and to draw closer to Jesus through these meditations. May your summer be filled with blessings, and we look forward to reconnecting in August!

FEATURES

5 From the Bishop

8 The Eucharist,The Body of Christ

By Very Rev. Mark Watson

10 We Are The Body Of Christ By Maggie Rocconi

12 "This Is My Body" A Priest's Reflection By Rev. David Endres

13 The Gift of Adoration

By Austin Young, Nathan Lirette, and Tristan Frisk

15 The Care Of All The Churches By Very Rev. Msgr. Rothell Price

17 Reverence Starts With Preparation By Rev. Kevin Mues

18 The Body of Christ in the Diocese of Shrevpeort By Delia Barr

COLUMNS

14 Mike's Meditations: Our Identity Is The Body Of Christ

16 Mary's Mission: Together, We Are One Body

19 Karen Dill: The Sisterhood Of The Body Of Christ

NEWS

7 The 30th Annual Red Mass

11 National Eucharistic Revival and Congress

20 Introducing Noemi Saybe

22 School News

28 CCNLA: Each Of Us Has Gifts To Give

29 Around The Diocese

34 Seminarian Burses

7

13 21 32 31

THERE ARE MEMORIES THAT STAY WITH US THROUGHOUT OUR LIVES—AND MANY DIRECTLY IMPACT HOW WE LIVE OUT OUR LIFE’S ENTIRETY. Some memories are sad or even tragic, and most of us remember the ones that formed us, changed us, and molded us into the adults we have become.

The Eucharist is the theme for this month’s Catholic Connection. Just hearing this theme suggested caused an immediate wellingup of my best memories on this topic, and I am eager to share one with you because of its direct and profound influence on my life, both as a priest and a bishop. To set the stage for the memory, I return to my earliest years of serving Mass in our parish church. I was in the fourth grade at a Sunday Mass in our large cavernous church, which was uncomfortably warm. Having no air conditioning, the church used large fans to circulate air through open stained glass windows. The Mass was celebrated by a visiting priest, who was very young and one to whom I was drawn to.

This is the memory: As the priest took the host in his hands, raised it to heaven, and pronounced the words of consecration, all of a sudden a gentle, cool breeze crossed the sanctuary. I still remember how, in the stifling warm church, it came as such a relief that it took my breath away. And although sixty-some years have passed since that unexpected moment, what I most remember and can still hear, even to today, is what the Lord spoke to me as that young priest elevated the Host, “Francis, this is what I want you to do.”

So, when people ask at what moment did I receive my vocation (and they have asked many times), I immediately recall that Mass, that priest, that cool breeze whispering through the sanctuary, and the Lord’s voice giving me a charge: “Francis, this is what I want you to do.”

Though pivotal in retrospect, I unconsciously tucked away that memory in my subconscious for many, many years; however, while I forgot that moment for a time, God did not. Now, I take you to 1978 and the small church of the Sacred Heart in Crawfordsville, Arkansas, where I was a priest of only one year celebrating Mass in a very warm church. It was too warm for the air conditioning, so I was relieved early in that Mass when an usher walked through the church opening windows.

At the moment I took the sacred host in my hands and uttered the words of consecration, there came from the opened windows a cool breeze—the very same breeze that took my breath away as a child so many years before, and immediately the memory returned while I looked upon the consecrated host now elevated above the altar in my hands. THEN… I heard the Lord speak to me again, as He had when I served Mass in the fourth grade, “Francis, you are doing what I asked you to

from the bishop

do.” Struck with a joy, I said to myself in that “OH MY GOD” moment, “LOOK, LORD what you have done to me!” And that is why I am a priest today: because He told me what He wanted me to do, and by His grace, He made it happen.

Now a bishop, I travel around the diocese for Confirmation and tell our young people soon to be confirmed about a prayer relevant to my memory, which I find answers most of life’s questions. It’s a simple prayer, that I ask them to write on a sticky note, attach to their bathroom mirror, and say every day: “Lord, whatever you want for me, that is what I want for myself.” I can tell them to say this with conviction because, with all my heart, I believe that is what happened to me—during that Mass—and in every moment of my life when I asked a question of the Lord. Again: “Lord, whatever you want for me, that is what I want for myself.”

The older we get, the more we reminisce about events from our life that shaped us, formed us, and made us who we are today. I found in the Eucharist and at Mass that the Lord speaks to me with answers to my questions, solutions to my problems, and a way out of every difficulty. I know that if I seek to know God’s will for me, He will tell me—and He does every time. What a sacred memory among the countless memories of my life!

Got questions? Looking for answers? God spoke to me and made clear to me what He had in store for me. Go to Him in the Eucharist … say that simple prayer. He’s ready with the answer.

“Lord, whatever you want for me, that is what I want for myself.”

Fortunately, I have other memories that had equally powerful impacts on my life—but each has this in common: “Lord, whatever you want for me, that is what I want for myself.”

por el obispo

HAY RECUERDOS QUE NOS ACOMPAÑAN TODA

LA VIDA, Y MUCHOS INFLUYEN DIRECTAMENTE EN CÓMO VIVIMOS LA TOTALIDAD DE NUESTRA EXISTENCIA. Algunos recuerdos son tristes o incluso trágicos, y la mayoría de nosotros recordamos los que nos formaron, nos cambiaron y nos moldearon hasta convertirnos en los adultos que hemos llegado a ser.

La Eucaristía es el tema de la Catholic Connection de este mes. El mero hecho de oír sugerir este tema hizo que brotaran de inmediato mis mejores recuerdos sobre este tema, y estoy deseando compartir uno con ustedes por su influencia directa y profunda en mi vida, como sacerdote y como obispo. Para preparar el escenario del recuerdo, vuelvo a mis primeros años de servir la Misa en mi parroquia. Yo estaba en cuarto grado en una Misa dominical en nuestra gran Iglesia cavernosa, que era incómodamente calurosa. Al no tener aire acondicionado, la iglesia utilizaba grandes ventiladores para hacer circular el aire a través de las vidrieras abiertas. La Misa la celebraba un sacerdote visitante, muy joven, que me llamó la atención.

Este es el recuerdo: Cuando el sacerdote tomó la hostia en sus manos, la elevó al cielo y pronunció las palabras de la consagración, de repente una brisa suave y fresca cruzó el santuario. Aún recuerdo cómo, en la sofocante y calurosa iglesia, fue un alivio tan grande que me dejó sin aliento. Y aunque han pasado sesenta y tantos años desde aquel momento inesperado, lo que más recuerdo y aún puedo oír, incluso hoy, es lo que el Señor me dijo mientras aquel joven sacerdote elevaba la Hostia: "Francisco, esto es lo que quiero que hagas."

Por eso, cuando la gente me pregunta en qué momento recibí mi vocación (y me lo han preguntado muchas veces), recuerdo inmediatamente aquella Misa, aquel sacerdote, aquella brisa fresca susurrando por el santuario, y la voz del Señor dándome un encargo: "Francisco, esto es lo que quiero que hagas."

Aunque en retrospectiva fue crucial, inconscientemente guardé ese recuerdo en mi subconsciente durante muchos, muchos años; sin embargo, aunque yo olvidé ese momento durante un tiempo, Dios no lo hizo. Ahora, los llevo a 1978 y a la pequeña Iglesia del Sagrado Corazón en Crawfordsville, Arkansas, donde fui sacerdote por sólo un año celebrando Misa en una Iglesia muy calurosa. Hacía demasiado calor para el aire acondicionado, así que me sentí aliviado al principio de aquella Misa cuando un ujier atravesó la Iglesia abriendo las ventanas.

En el momento en que tomé la Sagrada Hostia en mis manos y pronuncié las palabras de la consagración, vino de las ventanas abiertas una brisa fresca, la misma brisa que me dejó sin aliento cuando era niño, tantos años antes, e inmediatamente el recuerdo volvió mientras miraba la Hostia consagrada ahora elevada sobre el altar en mis manos. ENTONCES... oí que el Señor me hablaba de nuevo, como lo había hecho cuando serví la Misa en cuarto grado: "Francisco, estás haciendo lo que te pedí que hicieras." Golpeado por una alegría, me dije en ese momento "¡OH DIOS MIO!", "¡SEÑOR, mira lo que has hecho commigo!" Y por eso hoy soy sacerdote: porque Él me dijo lo que quería que hiciera y, por su gracia, lo hizo realidad.

Ahora, como obispo, viajo por la diócesis para la Confirmación y les hablo a nuestros jóvenes que pronto se confirmarán sobre una oración relevante para mi memoria, que encuentro que responde a la mayoría de las preguntas de la vida. Es una oración sencilla, que les pido que escriban en una nota adhesiva, la peguen al espejo de su cuarto de baño y la recen todos los días: "Señor, lo que quieras para mí, eso es lo que quiero para mí." Puedo decirles que digan esto con convicción porque, con todo mi corazón, creo que eso es lo que me sucedió a mí -durante esa Misa- y en cada momento de mi vida le hago esa pregunta: "Señor, lo que tú quieras para mí, eso es lo que yo quiero para mí."

Cuanto más mayores nos hacemos, más recordamos los acontecimientos de nuestra vida que nos formaron, nos moldearon y nos convirtieron en lo que somos hoy. He descubierto en la Eucaristía y en la Misa que el Señor me habla con respuestas a mis preguntas, soluciones a mis problemas y una salida a cada dificultad. Sé que, si busco la voluntad de Dios para mí, Él me la dirá, y siempre lo hace. ¡Qué recuerdo tan sagrado entre los innumerables recuerdos de mi vida!

¿Tienes preguntas? ¿Buscas respuestas? Dios me habló y me aclaró lo que tenía reservado para mí. Acude a Él en la Eucaristía... reza esa sencilla oración. Él está listo con la respuesta.

Afortunadamente, tengo otros recuerdos que tuvieron impactos igualmente poderosos en mi vida, pero cada uno tiene esto en común: "Señor, lo que quieras para mí, eso es lo que quiero para mí."

The 30th Annual Red Mass

Kirsten Shrewsberry, Editor and Diocesan Director of Public Relations

THE RED MASS, THE ANNUAL MASS CELEBRATED TO HONOR AND BLESS LEGAL PROFESSIONALS, WAS CELEBRATED ON MAY 3RD AT HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH. This year was particularly impactful, with it not only being the 30th Annual Red Mass but also celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Christophe Cardinal Pierre. This year's Red Mass honored the Shreveport Martyrs, the five priests from Shreveport who gave their lives in service to God during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1873. The Mass was celebrated at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, a minor shrine for the Shreveport Martyrs. It was indeed a blessed celebration!

Cardinal Pierre has many personal ties to this year's Red Mass; his father was also a lawyer, and the Shreveport Martyrs are from the same region of France as he is. Bishop Francis Malone and several diocesan priests concelebrated with his Eminence. Pastor Brady Blade and the Zion Baptist Choir provided music before the Mass.

THE EUCHARIST The Body Of Christ

Very Reverend Mark Watson, VF, Pastor at St. Mary of the Pines Parish and Sacred Heart of Jesus Church

FROM THE FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI 2022 TO TODAY, THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES HAS BEEN CELEBRATING OUR NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL.

During this time Catholics have been offered the opportunity to grow in faith of, and better live out, the Eucharist. I write this article to help Catholics in our diocese better understand this great gift of God.

St. Thomas Aquinas wrote in Summa Theologica’s question 75, “The whole substance [of bread and wine is changed] into the whole substance [of Christ and this is called] transubstantiation.”

The substance, the deepest reality of the bread, changes into the substance of the Body of Christ; the substance of the wine changes into the Blood of Christ; and the accidents, or appearances (such as color, taste, texture and smell) continue to appear as bread and wine. Thus, the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of Christ.

Words are important in Catholic theology. The Council of Trent never uses the words “the real presence of Jesus”; instead, only the term “the Body of Christ.” To only describe the Eucharist as the “Body of Jesus” would be to limit the Eucharist to Jesus’ historical body and the earthly reality of the Word made flesh. Fr. Kevin Irwin wrote that we are not to limit our belief in the Eucharist to the physical body of Jesus; that would be overly “physical,” “localized” or “historical.” The Body of Christ refers to the entirety of the mystery of Christ: Christ as He existed before time, Christ as He existed on earth— including

His suffering, death, resurrection and ascension to the Father’s right hand—and Christ as He currently exists in eternal life.

The Mass is a Holy Sacrifice in which bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. The Mass is not a bloody sacrifice because Jesus died only once on the cross; instead, the Mass is a memorial sacrifice in which the Paschal Mystery—the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord—are remembered in a liturgicalsacramental way. The salvific mysteries, which belong to the past, are rendered present by means of the Liturgy, and God will remember these mysteries and bring them to their future fulfillment. In this remembrance, the Paschal Mystery is actualized in our lives, and in so doing God continues to work out our salvation. The Mass is an act of remembrance of the past actualized in the present and fulfilled in the future, which leads to the here-and-now offering of this unique gift of redemption.

The teaching of the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) helped to expand the Church’s understanding of how the Body of Christ is present during the Mass.The “Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy” states that in the celebration of the Mass, Christ is present in: (1) the worshipping assembly (the Mystical Body of Christ), (2) the Word when it is read, (3) the person of the priest, and (4) the Eucharistic species. Thus, in different ways during the celebration of the Mass, the assembly and the Eucharistic species are the Body of Christ.

Finally, let us reflect on the effect of receiving the Body and Blood of Christ with faith. In the Gospel of John, Jesus promises that if we eat His flesh and drink His blood we will have eternal life and He will raise us up on the last day. May we live with confidence that through receiving the Body and Blood of Christ in faith, Christ will both live in us now and reward us with eternal life in heaven.

Every Mass is a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. Thus, during the Mass our attitude should always be one of giving praise and thanksgiving to God for the blessings that we celebrate. May we give thanks for being members of the Body of Christ and for being fed by Christ through His Word and through His Body and Blood. Let us give thanks that the reception of the Body and Blood of our Lord in faith gives us hope of eternal life. May the great gift of the Eucharist keep us close to our Lord Jesus Christ.

WHEN THE DIOCESAN DIRECTOR OF YOUTH MINISTRY, LAURIE NICK, APPROACHED ME ABOUT WRITING A PIECE ABOUT THE BODY OF CHRIST, I COULD NOT REFUSE. This topic is near to my heart and one I could write paragraphs and paragraphs about! The living body of Christ is the Church, our community of believers, and what that means to us. I have been thinking and praying, and I want to share what it means to me.

First Corinthians 12:12-14 beautifully states, "As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit. Now, the body is not a single part, but many." This passage encapsulates not just unity, but also the richness of diversity. As members of this great body, we are all unique, yet united in our faith. I firmly believe that God has blessed us with the gift of diversity in cultures and talents, making our community vibrant and dynamic.

We are all alike yet different, which is the beauty of The Body of Christ. We all have one particular thing in common: our reliance on Him. He is the vine grower, and we are the branches. We are all part of the same tree in that sense. We

We Are The Body Of Christ

Maggie Rocconi, Youth Advisory Council Member

are here to help each other become stronger, "as iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17). This community is one of our greatest gifts this side of heaven. We are all different and have different roles and talents within the universal Church. Still, we share the same faith and are here to help each other while worshiping our Savior. The Body of Christ is alive and well in the Catholic Church, and it is because we believe and take action together.

"As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit. Now, the body is not a single part, but many."

1 Corinthians 12:12-14

At the 10th National Eucharistic Christ in the Eucharist. Catholics, our young people This part-retreat, part-youth-conference

NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL AND CONGRESS

Delia Barr, Diocesan Director of Faith Formation

THE LAST EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS HELD IN THE UNITED STATES WAS IN 1976 IN PHILADELPHIA.

No wonder the USCCB bishops determined it was time to host a Eucharistic Congress! For the past two years, every diocese has been reviving the love of the Eucharist as the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ.

Research showed that many Catholics don’t believe in the True Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Because of this, our diocesan parishes lifted up intentions for our community’s increase of this belief. We prayed for families to cultivate a spirit of vocations, for greater attendance at Mass, for an understanding of the Blessed Mother’s role in our faith lives and greater devotion to her, and for our parish communities to become true Disciples of Christ in word and deed—as we give witness of our faith to others.

Our priests offered special talks and homilies on the True Presence, our communities participated in book studies and Eucharistic Adoration, and our website (dioshpt.org/ eucharistic-revival) listed all parish Eucharistic Adoration times. Our website also provides numerous resources, including featured articles from the National Eucharistic Revival and great video resources (at the bottom of the web page). Prayerfully check these resources.

It was clear during the Rite of Election at the cathedral when Lent began, and again when all the Catechumen and Candidates entered the Church at the Easter Vigil—our faith

communities are growing. Prayer works! We are truly making disciples and sharing our faith with others.

I will travel to attend the Eucharistic Congress from July 17-21, and I ask that you pray for all those faithful Catholics making the pilgrimage to Indianapolis—prayerfully consider offering a Holy Hour for those attending. I know I will return filled with the Holy Spirit and eager to share my experiences with all of you. Since keynote speaker presentations and Masses will be shared, it would be awesome if communities gathered together to participate and watch online.

If you are interested in attending the congress, check our website (dioshpt.org/eucharistic-revival) and please contact me. The Diocese of Biloxi has tickets they are happy to share with or sell to us. You need to arrange your own travel.

To learn more about the National Eucharistic Congress scan this code!

This historic moment whole Church represented—and

JULY 17-21, 2024 | INDIANAPOLIS,

"This Is My Body" A Priest's Reflection

FIFTEEN YEARS AGO, I CELEBRATED MASS FOR THE FIRST TIME. I remember being resolute and intentional when I picked up the host and said, “This is My Body,” sharing in the words that Jesus spoke at the Last Supper. And as I placed the newly consecrated host on the shiny, golden paten resting on the altar, I caught a glimpse of myself in the paten, as if in a mirror. I was overcome with this new reality: I was now a priest, and these were my hands holding the Body of the Lord. I considered with amazement the meaning of the words “This is My Body.” I marveled, thinking: “Yes, this is me—my body— now holding Him.” I had never felt so close to Jesus.

When the priest celebrates Mass, he does so in persona Christi—in the person of Christ. In presiding at the Eucharistic sacrifice, he offers that sacrifice to God on behalf of the people. The words that he says, the prayers he speaks, are not his own; they are Jesus’ words to God the Father. The texts of the Mass communicate this clearly. In the prayers of consecration, the priest does not say, “This is Jesus’ body… This is Jesus’ blood” but “This is My Body … This is My Blood.” At this moment, earth and heaven, the priest and Christ are joined.

When the priest acts in persona Christi, Jesus works through him. This may not be easy to grasp, even for the priest—or maybe especially for the priest. It can elicit a range of emotions. Sometimes, he may feel very close to Christ; he may take refuge in ministering in Jesus’ name and delight in how Christ is shaping those to whom he ministers. At other times, the

priest may be particularly aware of his unworthiness and feel weighed down or underappreciated. In these moments, the priest is challenged to bridge the divide between who he is and who he represents. A posture of humility and gratitude can re-center him as he grapples with being the unworthy minister of the worthy one: Christ Himself.

Through celebrating Mass, I have received many consolations and a feeling of closeness to Christ—something like St. Paul’s sense of the divine presence: “For what is seen dimly now will be seen face to face… and then I shall recognize God as He has recognized me” (1 Cor 13:12). The Eucharist is a foretaste of eternal life, where we will meet Jesus face-to-face. The priest has the privilege of being close to that encounter, ministering in Christ’s place sacramentally, and being called through sacramental actions to image Christ, though imperfectly. The Mass provides the opportunity for that generous and mysterious identification of the priest with Christ. When I celebrate Mass, I am reminded of the awesome reality in which I participate. Saying “This is My Body … This is My Blood” helps me recall who I am and who I am meant to be.

Father David Endres is a professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Mount St. Mary's Seminary & School of Theology in Cinicinnati

The Gift Of Adoration

MEDITATIONS FROM OUR DIOCESAN SEMINARIANS

Jesus is fully present in the Eucharist; His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. This profound mystery is a gift to the Catholic Church and the world. I think of the Old Testament when Moses went up Mount Sinai to speak with God, and he came back down with the tablets of the 10 commandments, but also with his face shining brightly! When you go to Adoration, something remarkable happens. In a way, your face shines like Moses’. God’s love and His graces are poured out upon us. Sometimes, we can really feel this blessing, and sometimes, it feels very subtle. Either way, it happens. Adoration is a time for Jesus and me to be together. And just like any friend, the more you spend time together, the closer you get. Go as yourself, and know that you are welcomed and loved by God. Can you imagine Jesus' perspective? Seeing the one who He lived and died for (you) walking through the door to spend time with Him? Heaven rejoices!

Austin Young

Adoration has impacted my discernment immensely. I am blessed to have Adoration available every day at the seminary. I spend an hour with our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament daily at the seminary. It is there that I can grow in friendship with my Lord. It was challenging when I began going to Adoration before becoming a seminarian. Sitting there for an hour was an extreme struggle. Learning more about Adoration, I realized it was an opportunity to come face to face with my Lord, who knows what is best for me. As I go before my Lord, I face what He wills for me in my life, not only in extraordinary ways but ordinary ones as well. Daily Adoration has aided me in discerning my daily mundane life. Christ, through Adoration, aids me in changing how I live daily, which aids me in discerning what He wills for my life as a whole.

Eucharistic Adoration, for me, is that opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ, our Risen Savior, who leads and encourages me to participate in the Paschal Mystery by the gift of his complete and authentic presence. In Eucharistic Adoration I can deepen my relationship with Jesus Christ, whose full and real presence reveals the depths of His, and, therefore, the Father's and the Holy Spirit's, mercy. This leads to an ever-deepening knowledge of myself and all brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ (the Eucharist and the Church.) We are all called to become the Body of Christ, to love as Jesus Christ, and to draw nearer to Him. The easiest way for us to achieve this is through Adoration.

Tristan Frisk

Nathan Lirette

Our Identity Is The Body Of Christ

Mike Van Vranken, Spiritual Director

“NOW YOU ARE CHRIST’S BODY” (1 COR. 12:27)

In her book Freeing Jesus, Diana Butler Bass describes the moment when, on her knees in the National Cathedral in Washington, DC, she heard Jesus' voice say, “Get Me out of here!” Of course, this does not mean Jesus was trapped inside a church’s marble and gold sanctuary. No, the implication was far more challenging. "Get Me out of here and share Me with others. It is sacred, holy, and even sacramental to visit Me here in the church, but you are the Body of Christ."

How do we live this identity to the world around us? Put in real terms, how are we feeding, healing, accompanying, washing the feet of, forgiving, and loving the people we encounter each day?

20th-century French priest Father Michel de Certeau believed that Jesus left the earth so we could function here as the Body of Christ. He suggested that if Jesus were still here, only He would be recognized as the Body of Christ. He had to leave so we could rise, grow into our own identity, and be His body. So, how are we doing? What is the true measurement of our being the Body of Christ? I’m confident the only answer here is love. God is love (1 John 4:8), so Christ must also be love. To grow into our identity as the Body of Christ, we, too, must be love.

Author Mac Loftin says that de Certeau’s “Christology has profound implications for how Christians should treat others – religious, cultural, national, sexual and racial others.” Jesus is no longer here to show us how to treat others, but it is up to us to follow the lead He left. A longer, deeper, loving look at the issues facing our world might be our first step.

For example, during World War II the U. S., out of fear, turned away thousands of European Jews seeking asylum from Hitler and the Nazis. Upon the forced return to their homeland, many were arrested and thrown into slavery in concentration camps,

where they and millions of others died. The world now knows, at least intellectually, the Holocaust’s horrors. Sit and examine how you feel about the Body of Christ in our country refusing to permit these refugee Jews across our borders so they could live safely in this land. We sent many back to be brutally killed. Where was the loving, welcoming Body of Christ? Stop here for a moment, and sift through your own feelings, now.

If you experienced any negative feelings at all during that selfexamination, realize that we face a similar situation today. Every day, out of fear, we turn away innocent people who are running for their lives and seeking asylum in our country. Where are we as the Body of Christ today? Do we stand up and demand our country receive these brothers and sisters with open arms? Or is our history of living in fear repeating itself? How many of these beautiful souls we turned away ended up in prostitution rings, were traded as a working slave to another country, or were savagely raped and beaten? And how many have been mercilessly executed—all for trying to find a better life in the “land of the free?” How do we, today, as the Body of Christ, meet this challenge?

While continuing this meditation, consider these Bible verses that can help open our eyes a little:

The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall Love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt. Leviticus 19:34

Cursed is anyone who withholds justice from the foreigner. Deuteronomy 27:19

Of course, there are other issues we could choose to reflect upon with this same meditation process, issues such as climate change, war, LGBTQIA+ persons, poverty cycles, racial hatred and many more. For each reflection we ask the same question: “Concerning this issue, how am I being the Body of Christ?”

The Care Of All The Churches

Very Reverend Monsignor Rothell Price, Vicar for Clergy and Judicial Vicar

“Leaving other sufferings unmentioned, there is that daily tension pressing on me, my anxiety for all the churches."

2 Corinthians 11: 28. With all else that Saint Paul is going through, he speaks of his daily concern for all the churches, not just the local community he happens to be in at any given moment. This is the mantle placed on the shoulders of Pope Francis and the College of Bishops. Every bishop is called upon to be concerned not only for his diocese but, along with the Holy Father, to be concerned for every diocese worldwide.

There is a vital connection between our local Catholic Service Appeal and our national Second Collections. Our Catholic Service Appeal gathers donations to provide significant, but not complete, funding for ministries and programs provided by the Diocese of Shreveport that benefit parishes, ministry organizations, and diocesan departments.

Our one-time or sustained contribution to our Catholic Service Appeal greatly helps our local mission to be the face, heart, hands, and feet of Jesus Christ to our brothers and sisters across north Louisiana.

The national Second Collections are both the divine mandate and mission of our Lord, Jesus Christ, laid on the hearts and shoulders of the bishops of our Catholic Church. Fifteen of those collections are required of all dioceses of the United States for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to respond to the call of Catholics across our great nation to help address pastoral and civic needs of common concern. The funds from these collections support ministries and programs on the national level, while the monies of our Catholic Service Appeal fund much-needed ministries and programs we have identified on our local level.

Five of the Second Collections are particular to our diocesan circumstances. The funds from these specialized collections address the concerns that the clergy and laity of the Diocese of Shreveport have drawn to our Bishop's attention:

• Catholic Schools and scholarship access for our Catholic families who greatly desire a Catholic education for their child(ren) but cannot afford to cover the cost of this faithbased education on their own.

• Physical, spiritual, pastoral, emotional, and social care for our temporary and long-term sick and infirmed priests.

• Outreach and pastoral care for our Catholic college and university students at the many distinguished institutions of higher learning in our diocese.

• Pastoral, liturgical, and continuing faith formation for our multicultural ministry, i.e., our Asian, African, African American, Hispanic, Native American, Filipino, and Vietnamese Catholics in our diocese.

• Supplemental financial support is needed for the vocation of our seminarians in their formation toward ordained ministry in the Church and elderly priests as they enter their retirement years while still serving the People of God as best they can in their senior years.

One hundred percent of the donations from these five unique collections remain in our diocese for our locally identified needs. I must mention that a portion of five of the national collections benefits our diocese directly because the national office sends back a portion of those collections for a particular ministry or program.

Fiscally-minded Catholics have wondered if there is a duplication of funding between the Catholic Service Appeal and the Second Collections. The transparent answer is no; there is no duplication between these connected opportunities for the faithful to help the Church fulfill its mandate from Christ our Lord to build the Kingdom of God. Our Catholic Service Appeal does not fully fund any ministry, program, or diocesan department, nor does the roster of Second Collections. These two Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy make many ministries possible.

Our bishop and diocesan family are incredibly grateful to and for those Catholics of abundant and meager means, both with generous hearts, who step forward during and at the year’s end to say, “Bishop, what gaps in ministry and program funding can I help fill in?”

The need is great; the funding falls short, but Deus providebit – God provides! The harvest is great; the laborers are few, but Deus providebit – God provides! Our fish and loaf seem woefully insufficient when there are so many, but Deus providebit – God provides!

Thank you for desiring and acting to make the presence of Jesus Christ known and felt through the combined efforts of the Second Collections and our annual Catholic Service Appeal.

Together, We Are One Body

Mary Arcement Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor & Diocesan Victim Assistance Minister

AS A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL, IT IS NOT UNCOMMON TO HEAR HORRIFIC STORIES OF ABUSE, DYSFUNCTION, CHAOS, ADDICTION, AND SO MUCH MORE. Although somewhat desensitized to much of it (22 years in this business will do that to you), every now and again I hear an especially gut-wrenching story and find my thoughts wandering toward this one question, “Why did God allow this to happen?” If you’ve lived long enough in this very broken world, you, too, have asked yourself this question. Please note, asking this question is not a sign of disbelief in God nor do I blame Him. Rather, I think it is simply my humanness reacting to something so awful that my mind struggles to comprehend any of it. As Christians, we know that this is a hard walk but one very much worth walking. We also know that God does allow many horrible happenings on this side of Heaven. It is not because He is mean or likes to punish us—on the contrary! In my humble opinion, I believe He allows such things to happen, first, because He gave us free will and, second, because He wants us to lean in even closer to Him during these times. I also think He allows it as a way to

see what we, the Body of Christ—His people, His Church—do in response to said horrible thing.

For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.

Romans 12:4-5

“…and the members do not all have the same function.” My understanding of this one section from the above scripture verse is this: although we are all members of the same Body, we are not meant to do the same thing. I believe it is different for each of us based on our unique gifts, and callings. Perhaps, I am misinterpreting it, but it makes sense to my non-theologian brain.

I offer this to better explain: Think about actual body parts, such as the hand and the knee. Each is a part of the same body, each is important, and each serves a different role based on its uniqueness. The body needs the hand to pick up the fork from the floor while simultaneously needing the knee to bend far enough for the hand to reach the fork. That said, I also see our roles rotating through various parts of the Body. Sometimes we are the knee, and other times we are the hand, foot, toe, or shoulder. The point I hope I am conveying here is that, when we, as the Body of Christ, see atrocities happen in our world, instead of shaking our heads and wondering where God is, we need to pause long enough to ask ourselves, “Which body part do I need to be right now to help this person, thing, or situation?”

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Eph. 4:15-16

My brothers and sisters, I leave you with this important message stemming from verse 16: When we, as the Body of Christ, work properly, the whole Body grows, so it (we), can build ourselves up in love. “For the greatest of these is love” (1 Cor. 13:13).

Reverence Starts With Preparation

Reverend Kevin Mues, St. Thomas of Aquinas Pastor

ONE THING EVERY CHURCH MEMBER SEEMS TO DESIRE IN THEIR MASS EXPERIENCE IS GREATER REVERENCE: a greater respect for the Eucharist as the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ and a greater respect for the Eucharist as the source and summit of our faith. As with most things in our lives, our Mass celebrations are a process of conversion, becoming conformed to God’s will and seeking to be more like Him in everything we do. Growing in reverence for the mysteries of our faith takes practice—that’s why we are “practicing Catholics.” Since the old adage is true, “An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure,” I posit that over half of the reverence we experience at Mass comes from our own preparation to encounter God. I thus offer three tips I learned for more reverently experiencing the Mass.

TIP

1: REVIEW THE READINGS BEFORE YOU ARRIVE AT CHURCH

The lectionary’s use is one of the Church’s great gifts.. This, and each, Sunday’s reading is available to everyone with an internet connection and access to the USCCB website. Read through the readings and prayerfully consider their themes as presented by the Church. If that doesn’t sound fun, I search for the tricky words that can cause the lector to stumble. “Philippians, Let’s see if they say Philippines.” When the priest or deacon proclaims Christ’s genealogy during the Christmas Vigil Mass, this method of preparation is all the more fun!

TIP 2: DRESS APPROPRIATELY

This is one of the trickier topics for a parish priest to approach. I admit that not so long ago you could catch me wearing pajama pants at Walmart. While there’s no such thing as a dress code for Mass, there are two excellent rules that are

always applicable. The first is the two C’s: Clean and Covered. For cleanliness, I tell my college students that they have all week to find the cleanest shirt on the pile, but this really applies to all of us. As far as “covered” goes, God made it; He doesn’t need to see it.

Sunday Best is another great guide to keep in mind. When we attend Mass, our focus should not be about looking good for the other people in the pews. Instead, we should bear in mind that we are placing ourselves in the presence of the King of kings and Lord of lords. If possible, our Sunday attire reflects Who we are going to see.

TIP 3: PRAY BEFORE

Ask God for the grace to experience the Mass as He would have you do. It doesn’t have to be a long prayer, but arriving ten or fifteen minutes early provides time to ask God’s help for experiencing the Mass with reverence–arrive twenty minutes early if you’re also praying the rosary. Use those pre-Mass moments to redirect your focus from the litany of things that you must do, the stress of getting your family to church, and the coming week’s difficulties; instead, pray for God’s help that you will be truly present to Him for the hour that He asks of you.

Doing all of this will not make the Mass “perfect.” It won’t make the cantor sing on key or the priest preach a good homily. It won’t make the baby in the third row stop crying or the old women in the second-to-last pew stop talking through the consecration. We are imperfect people seeking to be perfected by God, and it takes practice. But it is practice and preparation that keep us on our path to be saints.

The Body Of Christ In The Diocese of Shreveport

Delia Barr, Diocesan Director of Faith Formation

I REALLY LOVE AND APPRECIATE MANY ASPECTS OF MY JOB AT THE DIOCESE, BUT ONE STANDS OUT. As a Director of Faith Formation, I have had the opportunity to visit and worship in almost every church of the diocese (I still need to visit some mission churches). While in parish ministry, I connected to the parish I worked for and usually spent my weekends there, working in ministry and attending Mass. Not complaining, I loved parish ministry work, but it prevented visits to other diocesan churches.

I discovered that every church in the Diocese of Shreveport is magnificent and special in its own way, from the incredible Cathedral of St. John Berchmans to the Minor Shrine at Holy Trinity. Big and small, they are truly beautiful! I love the humble features and the surprising beauty when you enter a seemingly simple structure and are amazed by the many windows and statues and the inviting sanctuary.

What I also experienced at each church and liturgy is the uniqueness of both the treasured groups of disciples in the pews and the treasured priests who lead them, all exceptional in their individual ways.

One parish I visited is very small and lacks an organist, but that doesn’t stop members from lifting their voices in song. A member shares the song number as Mass begins, then everyone stands and sings the gathering hymn a capella—it was joy filled! Following Mass, the entire faith community moves downstairs and shares a meal together, then members share their faith through book or bible studies. And, I experienced more than one other church community gather for meals following Mass. It is so wonderful to see these communities move from the

sanctuary to their parish hall because they just want to stay together a little longer. After receiving the Eucharist, they remain together as the Body of Christ for community.

It's not only a feature in small faith communities. I saw the same joy-filled parish communities in our larger churches, though they move into more than one meeting space to continue in communion with one another in a meal, a bible study, or formation for children and adults.

I have to admit, at times I hang back a moment before Mass begins because I know many Catholics have their “favorite spot” to sit. I don’t want to be the person that sat in someone’s “spot,” although no one has given me the side-eye for doing so. Rather, often noted as a new face, I always feel truly welcomed, am greeted warmly, and am made to feel at home.

While our diocese is diverse and covers a large territory, it is filled with faith-filled Catholics and communities that are welcoming and bringing people closer to Christ. This is evident from the list of “New” Catholics received during the recent Easter Vigil (published in last month’s Catholic Connection). Although some parishes had no one in their OCIA/RCIA program in the last few years, this year those parishes are bringing people into the faith. The Holy Spirit is active in the Diocese of Shreveport!

I am so blessed to have this chance to travel throughout the diocese. Thank you, everyone, for your welcoming spirit. I’m so glad I started “Following” the Diocese of Shreveport on Facebook, or I would have never seen the opportunity for this position. Or, was that the Holy Spirit too?

The Sisterhood Of The Body Of Christ

Karen Dill, Spiritual Director

WE MEET EACH WEDNESDAY AT 9:30 IN THE BURLEIGH CENTER OF ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON PARISH IN SHREVEPORT. While we have among us a few treasured young women, most of us are, to put it delicately, women “of a certain age” playing in the fourth quarter of the game of life. You will hear us from the parking lot, a gaggle of women gathering each week for Bible study, fellowship, and prayer, having embraced one member’s name for our bunch: The Sisterhood Bible Study.

You are welcome to join us — come early for a good seat! Some of us have been meeting for years, and we are always happy to see new faces. Our collective patchwork quilt of real-life knowledge adds depth and richness to our weekly discussions, which help us live as the body of Christ.

We are wives, mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, aunts, sisters, daughters, in-laws, neighbors, friends. We bring to the table a wealth of experience as teachers, nurses, counselors, real estate agents, speech therapists, social workers, administrators, bankers, accountants, small business owners, full-time housekeepers, and so much more.

We read, watch videos, question, and discuss numerous topics, including Mary, Mary and Martha, the Saints, the Pillars of the Church, the Creed, the Seven Deadly Sins and Seven Lively Virtues, all four Gospels, the book of Acts … The list is long and varied. We do all of this so that we can better reflect the mind of Christ.

We represent a wide swath of believers who are cradle Catholics, converts, PSR teachers, Eucharistic ministers, lectors, volunteers, choir members, and church ladies. We decorate the altar, attend Adoration, cook meals, serve plates, wash dishes, sponsor OCIA candidates, visit the sick, and feed the poor. By doing all these things, we offer our unique gifts as part of the Body of Christ.

And we have all been broken in some form or fashion. We have prayed for each other through diseases, surgeries, injuries, birth defects, strokes … We have lost husbands, children, parents, dear friends, finances, homes, and sometimes even hope. Our shared brokenness only serves to enhance our love for Jesus and each other, and our trials help us be the eyes and ears of the body of Christ, willing to notice and respond to those in need.

Our individual skills are impressive, with artists, gardeners, musicians, writers, seamstresses, knitters, hostesses, babysitters, caregivers, bakers, singers, and pickleball players. We are grateful recipients of talents and gifts from the Holy Spirit.

In Ephesians 1, St. Paul writes: The Church is Christ’s body, the completion of him who himself completes all things everywhere Each week I come to this Bible study and am struck by the fact that I’m seeing the living body of Christ in each of my fellow members. Studying the Word equips us to do the work Jesus calls us to do in His present Kingdom.

Do you belong to an active group of disciples in your parish who are gathering and working together for His Kingdom? Maybe you are being called to form one! The harvest is plenty, but the workers are few. I pray that each one of us discovers in a fresh way the joy and excitement of being an active member of the body of Christ!

"And he put all things beneath his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way."

Ephesians 1:22-23

Introducing Noemi Saybe

I am thrilled to join the Diocese of Shreveport as the Director of Marriage and Family Life. With over 20 years of experience in various Catholic parishes, including roles in adult ministries, data services, and pro-life advocacy, I am eager to support and empower our families in their journey of faith.

My mission is to assist families in becoming strong, Christ-centered domestic churches. Through education, resources, and a focus on prayer and sacraments, we will strive to integrate Christ into every aspect of family life. Additionally, I am committed to coordinating the diocese's pro-life ministry, promoting a culture of life within our communities.

On a personal note, my devotion to St. Teresa of Avila and daily prayer, including frequent adoration and the rosary, guides my own journey of faith. Despite not having children of our own, my husband and I have been blessed with 23 years of marriage, which deepens my understanding of family dynamics and challenges.

I am excited about the opportunity to serve alongside you, and I look forward to journeying with each family as we build strong, resilient, and Christ-centered households within our diocese.

Estoy muy emocionada y feliz de ser la nueva directora de vida familiar y matrimonial de la Diócesis de Shreveport. Con más de 20 años de experiencia en varias parroquias católicas, incluyendo puestos de ministerios para adultos, servicios de datos, y defensa provida, estoy ansiosa por apoyar y fortalecer a nuestras familias en su camino de fe.

Mi misión consiste en ayudar a familias a crear iglesias domésticas fuertes y centradas en Cristo. A través de formación, recursos y la atención a los sacramentos y oración, nos esforzaremos por integrar a Cristo en todos los aspectos de la vida familiar. También me comprometo a coordinar el ministerio provida de la diócesis, promoviendo una cultura de vida dentro de nuestras comunidades.

Personalmente, mi devoción a Santa Teresa de Ávila y oración diaria, incluyendo la frecuente adoración eucarística y rezar el rosario, guían mi propio camino de fe. A pesar de no haber tenido hijos propios, mi marido y yo hemos sido bendecidos con 23 años de matrimonio, profundizando mi comprensión de la dinámica familiar y sus dificultades.

Estoy muy contenta por la oportunidad de servir a su lado, y espero poder trabajar con cada familia para construir hogares sólidos, resistentes y centrados en Cristo en nuestra diócesis.

CRISTO REY: BOSSIER CITY Rev. Fidel Mondragon 318.221.0238 Oficina Domingo 1:00pm Lunes 7:00pm Sabado 6:00pm Coordinador Jacova Saucedo 318.773.8205

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

Coordinador: Carmen Bradford 318-455-2300

SAGRADO CORAZON: OAK GROVE 318.428.2983 Oficina, Domingo 1:00pm Rev. John Bosco 318-402-1585

SAN JOHN THE BAPTIST, MANY Rev. Tim Hurd Oficina: 318-256-5680 primer domingo 5:00pm

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

Karla Alvarez, Diocesan Director of Multicultural Ministries

Identity, Dignity, and Liberty

The first ever De Vuelta A Casa retreat took place on April 19th – 21st at Camp Bethany for young adults 18- 35 years old and it was a success! We are excited to see what the Lord has planned for these amazing young adults and where He will take them in the future.

Identidad, Dignidad y Libertad

El primer retiro de De Vuelta A Casa se llevó a cabo del 19 al 21 de abril en Camp Bethany para jóvenes adultos de 18 a 35 años y ¡fue un éxito! Estamos emocionados de ver lo que el Señor ha planeado para estos increíbles jóvenes adultos y a donde el Señor los llevará en el futuro.

JULY 11-14, 2024

Experience life-changing camps packed with awesome activities and authentic Catholic spirituality! Two camps, one for girls and one for boys, are held at King’s Camp in Mer Rouge, where a top-notch ropes course is flanked by the bayou and a picturesque pond. The days include competitive games, great food, Catholic devotions, and time at the pool. Don’t miss these three days of faith-filled fun! For rising freshmen through graduating seniors

MISSION POSSIBLE

JULY 14-17, 2024

St. Frederick High School

Jill Wier, St. Frederick High School Director of Development

ST. FREDERICK IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THAT FIVE OF OUR SENIORS HAVE EARNED THE STATE OF LOUISIANA’S SEAL OF BILITERACY AWARD FOR DEMONSTRATING PROFICIENCY AND EXCELLENCE IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH. The Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to high school seniors who have fulfilled all required English Language Arts coursework as well as successfully completing four years of a world language. Louisiana is one of 30 states that awards the Seal of Biliteracy, which was approved by the Louisiana State Legislature in 2014.

These five students are Mary Margaret Hayden, Julia Marsala, Charlize Richardson, Kaylee Rogers, and Sophia Trejo.

These students will have the official Seal of Biliteracy affixed to their high school diplomas and official transcripts. The Seal certifies biliteracy attainment for students, employers, and universities. It is a statement of accomplishment that helps to signal evidence of a student's readiness for career and college and for engagement as a global citizen.

In 2014, the Louisiana legislature instituted the State’s Seal of Biliteracy, understanding the importance of bilingualism and biliteracy. The Louisiana State Seal of Biliteracy is a diploma endorsement that aims:

• To encourage students to study languages.

• To certify attainment of biliteracy.

• To provide employers with a method of identifying people with language and biliteracy skills.

• To provide universities with a method to recognize and give academic credit to applicants seeking admission.

• To prepare students with twenty-first-century skills.

• To recognize and promote world language instruction in schools.

• To strengthen intergroup relationships, affirm the value of diversity, and honor a community's multiple cultures and languages.

• To continue and renew Louisiana's historical tradition of bilingualism.

This pathway aligns directly with our International Baccalaureate program and sets St. Frederick apart. At St. Frederick, each student can take a world language from 7th to 12th grade, and our students can leave this school proficient in a second language.

At St. Frederick, our World Language department is excited to align with the Louisiana Vision for World Languages, which states that building a pathway to language proficiency will lead to students who are more academically able, culturally competent, and ready to succeed in an increasingly changing world.

Here are a few quotes from our award recipients:

Charlize Richardson says, “Having a background in the Spanish language will help me better communicate with patients who do not speak English. I am excited to bring Spanish into my career in medicine and everyday life." Charlize will continue studying Spanish at LSU as a minor.

Sophia Trejo says, "I want to pursue a career in the medical field, and I think that becoming fluent in Spanish will help me expand the ways that I can help others in my future profession. I want to be the bridge between both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking patients and help them get the medical help they need." Sophia plans to minor in Spanish at Mississippi State.

Julia Marsala says, "I think Spanish will help my future career because there are more and more people in our area every day who speak Spanish. I love helping people, and being bilingual is a great opportunity for me to do so." Julia will continue taking Spanish classes in college.

St. Joseph Catholic School

Polly Maciulski, St. Joseph Catholic School Middle School Regilion Teacher

WHEN I TELL SOMEONE THAT I TEACH MIDDLE SCHOOL CHILDREN, I SEE A LOOK OF SHOCK OR HORROR ON THE PERSON'S FACE. "Ugh! I could never teach that age group!" Ironically, that's what I said when teaching fourth and fifth-grade Religion. I made the mistake of saying that I would NEVER teach middle school. Since then, I have learned that "never say never" is a solid piece of advice. I have grown increasingly grateful for that mistake during the past seven years I taught this age group. This year, in particular, has been one that has required more of my patience and energy than any other, but as I look back at this school year, it may also be the most rewarding.

This year's eighth-grade class has been a unique one for me. They are the last group I taught fifth-grade Religion, and as a class, they have always been a rowdy bunch. They know it - if they are reading this, they will certainly nod in agreement. Of course, there are exceptions to that, and those kids make it all even more interesting. Regardless, I love having them in Religion class: they are great at class discussions, they ask deep, thought-provoking questions, and when you think they haven't heard a word you said all year, they knock your socks off with their words or actions.

This group, newly confirmed on May 4th, has shown me in numerous ways that they know what it means to be the body of Christ:

• They spent time in a class retreat with Brian Butler in December, learning about the Theology of the Body: that we can speak Jesus' language of love with our bodies in so many ways and that we ARE the Body of Christ when we act as Jesus' hands and feet to one another. They wrote beautiful reflections about this retreat, leaving me with no doubt that the time I spent planning it was worth every second.

• In February, they attended the Confirmation retreat at The Pines Catholic Camp in Big Sandy, Texas, and expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the time they spent in Eucharistic Adoration.

• Two students of this class (as well as one seventh-grader) became members of the Body of Christ this Easter—what a night! These students made this decision independently, through prayer and discernment, not pressure. They saw the beauty of our Catholic Faith and wanted to be a part of it.

• They offered a Living Stations of the Cross on Holy Thursday that brought me to tears before, during, and after each performance. Each year we have done this, it gets better, but this year was exceptional and one I will never forget.

• They attended this year's Red Mass, celebrated by the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, and genuinely appreciated the opportunity to be a part of such a grand celebration of our faith and the presence of other churches.

• And, of course, they received the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, May 4th, in a beautiful Mass. Seeing these teenagers walk forward, identify themselves by their saints' names, and walk away beaming was a joy. They were ready - not because of their teacher, but because they were open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

The Body of Christ is alive and well with this group. Watch out, world - God will do great things with them!

Jesus The Good Shepherd School

Amy Fakhre, Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Development Office

A TIME-HONORED TRADITION IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH AND AT JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOOL, MAY CROWNING OCCURS DURING MAY EVERY YEAR AT A SCHOOL MASS. JGS students bring fresh flowers from home, usually picked from their yard, and place them at the feet of the beautiful statue of Mary that has made her home at JGS Church for years. This beautiful ceremony honors the Blessed Mother as both Queen of Heaven and Mother of all the faithful.

The procession, a sight to behold, takes place at the beginning of Mass each year, with grades pre-K3 through sixth-grade filing through the church to place their flowers at the feet of Our Lady. The result is always a breathtaking image of our beautiful Mother Mary surrounded by a melody of miscellaneous flowers representing the diversity of our school, our church, and the world. This vibrant display of unity and diversity is a testament to the beauty and strength of our school community. May the Mother of all Creation continue to bless and protect Jesus the Good Shepherd School and Church.

Cathedral of St. John Berchmans School

Cassandra Key, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Director of Communications and Development

HOW DOES A SCHOOL REPRESENT THE BODY OF CHRIST? We have a diverse student body of children from all races, ethnic backgrounds, and religious denominations. Despite our differences, we come together once a week to celebrate Mass, pray daily, and support each other and our community. At SJB, we celebrate our differences and how we contribute to the Body of Christ. A great example of this would be our inaugural Cinco de Mayo Festival, held this past month on Friday, May 3rd.

This event was the brainchild and creation of Senora Thelma, our Spanish teacher, with assistance from Mrs. Mozel Byrd, our Art teacher. The festival was a kaleidoscope of activities, featuring a salsa tasting contest, an art show, a demonstration of traditional Spanish dancing like the Flamenco, and a medley of songs and music.

At SJB, we celebrate all the ways we can contribute to the body of Christ and have been doing so for 75 years!

Our Lady of Fatima School

Tessa Holyfield Hoff, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School, Vice Principal

THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR IS ALWAYS A BITTERSWEET TIME, ESPECIALLY FOR OUR EIGHTH-GRADE STUDENTS. Some of these students have been with us since pre-K4; this is their second home. It is a treasure to watch them grow from sweet little babies to incredible young men and women. We know that wherever they go from here, they will be successful. They know they are always welcome home for a visit.

We have created a tradition of hosting an eighth-grade endof-year trip. This trip is for fun, bonding, and learning and expanding knowledge. Each trip is planned to include academic and spiritual engagement. The people, places, and things they have been learning about in Religion and Social Studies are incorporated into the trip, deepening their understanding while making memories.

This year, we took our eighth-graders to New Orleans for two days. Some of the students had never been and were able to experience the "Big Easy" in all its grandeur, including a riverside dance-off. From St. Louis Cathedral to Cafe Du Monde to the Riverwalk Mall, they soaked in all the history, food, and fun New Orleans offers. We were able to have a tour of St. Louis Cathedral. Our tour guide was able to share the history of the church and many interesting facts. At the Old Ursuline Convent, we heard about the miracle of the 'Sweetheart' statue during the fire of 1788. While at the WWII museum, we heard firsthand accounts of those who lived through war at home and abroad. Finally, while at Vue New Orleans, we learned about the impact of African, French, and Creole inhabitants on the music, food, and festivities that set New Orleans apart.

We had a great time enjoying the people, the food, and the fun of New Orleans while connecting the ideas from our classrooms to real-life places and artifacts. However, I was slightly offended that my childhood toy, the View-Master, is considered a historical artifact.

While we are sad to see our eighth-graders leave, we know that the seeds of faith and knowledge we have planted and cultivated will continue to grow and produce. These young men and women will look back and remember Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School as a place where they were shown the love of God.

St. Jude Day School

Sharon McCabe, St. Jude Catholic Church, Pre-K3 Instructor

"IF I WERE A BUTTERFLY, I'D THANK YOU LORD THAT I COULD FLY" is the first line in the song The Butterfly Song by Debby Kerner and Ernie Rettino. These lyrics come to mind when I look back at the pictures taken during bug week. One of our parents came to read The Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. After reading to the children and making caterpillars out of coffee filters, clothes pins, and pipe cleaners, she gave each child a set of wings. We went outside to fly like beautiful butterflies. The children had so much fun pretending!

Community helper week followed bug week. At St. Jude Day School, the instructors read and talked about different community helpers and encouraged the children to think about what they want to be when they grow up. A parent, who is a veterinarian, visited our school to talk about her role in the community. She has a business where she travels to the homes of small animals to treat them. The children were fascinated learning about how veterinarians help our community. She gave each of them a ball to take home to their pets.

As part of our monthly lesson plans, we teach about a few saints and their feast days; on April 10th, our lesson was on Pope St. Gregory XIII. Since he was a pope, it was fitting that during chapel, the children and instructors were blessed with a cross resembling the pectoral cross Pope Francis wears and a picture of Pope Francis. Both articles were blessed by Pope Francis, himself. Fr. Kelby brought these back from his most recent trip to Rome, Italy.

During the Spring, we spend most of our recess enjoying the outdoors. Some days, we even have our lunch outside! As we continue our last few weeks of school, we will take advantage of our beautiful Louisiana climate before the weather gets too hot.

For information about St Jude Day School and MDO, please get in touch with Amanda Chapa at 318-746-2508 ext. 201 or sjds@stjudebossier.org

“Let my teachings fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.” Deuteronomy 32:2

Loyola College Prep

Jordan Harris, Loyola College Prep Director of Marketing and Communications

IMMACULÉE IS A RWANDAN-AMERICAN

AUTHOR AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER. Her first book, Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust, is an autobiographical work detailing how she survived the Rwandan genocide.

Our students all read her book in our Religion or English classes and then had the opportunity to hear Imaculee discuss her experience, her faith, and the power of forgiveness.

"I am so glad to have the chance to be at Loyola," she said. "I love to speak about my experience of surviving the genocide of Rwanda. The goal is to share the lessons I learned. During that time, I realized we have to be there for one another and learn from other people's experiences. I share mine to remind people who went through anything difficult that there is hope. Hold on to God. I saw the power of prayer, trusting God, and leaning on Him. And that is what I want to tell people."

Mr. John Sella saw the importance of her book and required all freshman English students to read it this year. He said his students were greatly impacted by it and enjoyed reading and discussing it.

"Freshmen usually complain about any books they have to read, but this one they really loved," Mr. Sella said. "I am glad they had the chance to read the book and then hear from Immaculée in person and have a chance to meet her. Her story is powerful, and our students were moved by her."

Immaculée survived the Rwandan genocide in a 3x4 foot bathroom with seven other women over 91 days. Her family was killed, and she tells her story about survival, forgiveness, and how her faith kept her alive.

"Loyola was blessed to have her come to talk about her experience, understanding faith and how faith drives us," said Mrs. Kimberly Hopwood, "She also spoke about how faith requires forgiveness. Being able to forgive those who killed her family was a hard concept to grasp. And to love everyone, no matter what was also difficult for our students to fully comprehend."

EACH OF US HAS GIFTS TO GIVE

IT TAKES A VILLAGE – NOT JUST TO RAISE A CHILD.

It takes a village to do life, and each one of us has a part to play. As I wrapped up work for my previous employer, coworkers sent their good wishes, and I couldn’t help but think of what I had learned from each one. The logistics manager who was the first to step forward with a beautiful prayer for anyone in need, the IT guy who answered questions without making you feel stupid, and the case manager who always had a smile for even the most demanding clients.

In my first few weeks at Catholic Charities, I realized how much each of them has become part of me as I learn a new set of programs, people, and processes. My new coworkers have their own lessons to teach. Without fail, everyone has been happy to help. This has made the work easier and calmed my mind, letting me know I am not alone. I wish I could say the same for the people we serve, many of whom struggle alone.

“Frank” was in between jobs when his electricity was cut off, and he owed $600. He had a new job lined up, but it would be a few weeks before he had a paycheck. Overwhelmed and

with nowhere else to turn, he called the office, and one of our case managers pledged to pay the amount as long as Frank attended Money $chool, CCNLA’s financial literacy program. Frank started his new job with a new sense of independence and control over his life. He sent the case manager a picture of his first paycheck with a note: "I want to tell you how grateful I am, sir. ... God bless you, and God bless Catholic Charities!"

This work is only possible because of your gifts—whatever they are. You might want to volunteer with the young mothers at Gabriel’s Closet. Maybe you have something to donate to the silent auction for Bingo on the Bayou. You may also have financial resources to share so we can continue to grow our ministry.

As we each do our part, we grow closer to Christ. As St. Paul told the Ephesians: “Living the truth in love, we should grow in every way into him who is the head, Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, with the proper functioning of each part, brings about the body’s growth and builds itself up in love.” (4:15-16) You are needed and welcome to help us build up the Body of Christ at Catholic Charities. Please visit our website at ccnla.org or call (865-0200) to learn how to get involved.

Diane Libro is the Executive Director of Catholic Charities of North Louisiana. She started April 24, 2024, and comes to the position with a background in journalism and nonprofits.

Around the diocese...

REVEREND RICHARD NORSWORTHY CELEBRATES HIS 39TH ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION TO THE PRIESTHOOD ON JUNE 1ST, LESS THAN A YEAR AFTER HIS RETIREMENT LAST OCTOBER. We at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, the home of his last assignment, had the privilege of working with Fr. Richard for three years. His presence in the church office brightened our days and kept us on our toes. We’ve grown quite fond of Fr. Richard in our brief time together. As we prepared for his retirement, we find ourselves reflecting on how much we will miss his daily wit and contagious laughter, and what his life of service has meant to the Church.

When gathering information for a parting gift to Fr. Richard, Kendell Martinez, Director of Religious Education for St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton parish said, “I did not know the impact and mark he had left on the Diocese of Shreveport, until I began calling all the parishes where he had faithfully served. When speaking with each of the ten parishes, the common theme was that he was well-loved, not only for his relatable, sometimes put-you-in-your-place homilies, but for his loving and compassionate spirit.”

Indeed, love for Fr. Richard was a common theme among all those we contacted. It was no surprise to us, however. We already knew the wry grin and self-deprecation were concealing a larger-than-life heart. “At his core he is a very caring and loving person,” says Kendell. “I am thankful for the friendship that I gained over his time here at St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton. He is the only priest who when I text him, I never know what the response will be, but I do know that it will bring a smile to my face.”

Our parish office is glad for misdelivered mail, because it’s a perfect excuse to insist Fr. Richard comes back and visits us! Just like our parish office, parishioners throughout our diocese have a great desire to care for and stay in contact with our retired clergy. After all our retired clergy, like Fr. Richard, have sustained and nurtured us for many years. May Fr. Richard and all of our priests – past, present and future – enjoy the fruits of their labor and our unending gratitude.

Support for our retired priests is made possible by your donations to the Catholic Service Appeal

Fr. Jean Bosco anointing the children on Divine Mercy Sunday at St. Patrick Church in Lake Providence.

Around the diocese continued...

The Saint John the Baptist Parish Community held May Crowning and the Living Rosary on Wednesday, May 1 at 5:30 p.m. in the LeVezouet Center. Afterwards, the Faith Formation children enjoyed a cupcake rosary.

Father Karl Daigle, pastor of Mary, Queen of Peace Parish in Bossier City, blessed the new statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the first Saturday in May. The beautiful statue and the rose garden were gifts from two families from the church. The statue will welcome parishioners and visitors of the church.

Fr. Peter Mallya and three first communicants at Sacred Heart Parish, Rayville.

On May 5th Fr. Patrick Madden celebrated 50 years since his ordination to the priesthood! The celebration was attended by many parishioners, priests, and friends. A special thank you to Fr. Ron Matthews for attending. Thank you also to parishioners and Grambling City Councilpersons John Brown Jr. and DeVaria Hudson-Ponton who presented Fr. Pat with an acknowledgement plaque from the office of the mayor as well as a bible as a gift from the parish.

The Saint Terence Altar Society, in conjunction with parishioners Chris and Carey Blanchard, have donated items to create care bags to be distributed to homeless persons as needed. Shown are Pam Little and Tina Nichols who helped work on the care bags which contain essential relief items for people living homeless. The Blanchards and the Altar Society's goal is to show kindness and compassion for fellow human beings going through difficult times.

We Truly Are The Body Of Christ

SIXTEEN YEARS AGO, THE THEME FOR THE DIOCESE OF SHREVEPORT’S ANNUAL DIOCESAN STEWARDSHIP APPEAL (NOW KNOWN AS THE CATHOLIC SERVICE APPEAL) WAS “WE ARE THE BODY OF CHRIST.” The award-winning campaign theme came with beautiful graphics (as shown above), a memorable song, and an important message – that we are all truly “The Body of Christ.”

It is one of my favorite Appeal themes and it accurately represents how all of us can come together to support the works of our Church. St. Paul writes in his Letter to the Corinthians, “As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ.” (I Corinthians 12:12). This means that we are all part of the same body through Christ, and in turn, we should come together to use our spiritual gifts to serve one another and build up the Church.

Each year, we ask you to support the Catholic Support Appeal with your donation. Many of you respond with your gift, but most Catholics in our diocese do not. It’s easy to think that you don’t need to donate – that someone else will take care of the needs of our diocese – but it is truly vital that each one of us supports the Appeal so that our ministries can thrive and serve others in our community.

When we go to Mass each week, we are sitting among a community of believers who make up our Church – the Body of Christ. Together, we can share our gifts that strengthen our parish, our faith, and our community. I ask you to prayerfully consider your financial commitment to this year’s Catholic Service Appeal and help us to build up the Body of Christ in our diocese.

Donate online at dioshpt.org or by scanning the code here.

Lucy Medvec, Diocesan Director of Development

Image courtesy of 2008 Annual Diocesan Service Appeal

UPCOMING EVENTS Pope Francis’ Prayer Intention

JUNE 15, 9-11 AM

Estate and End of Life Planning Seminar

@ The Catholic Center

Join us for an information seminar regarding estate planning and pre-funeral arrangements for peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Register by contacting BVice@dioshpt.org or by calling 318-868-4441 ext. 263.

JUNE 7, 9:30 AM

National Eucharistic Pilgrimate @ Diocese of Baton Rouge

Join the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage as it travels through the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

To RSVP visit diobr.org/pilgrimage

JUNE 24-28

Camp Little Flower @ Scottsville Camp, Marshall, TX

For more information contact camplittleflower@dioshpt.org

JULY 11-14

Beloved Camp

For teen girls, rising ninth grade students through graduating high school seniors. For more information or to register visit shvcamps.com

JULY 14-17

Mission Impossible Camp

For teen boys, rising ninth grade students through graduating high school seniors. For more information or to register visit shvcamps.com

For The Month Of June

FOR MIGRANTS FLEEING THEIR HOMES

We pray that migrants fleeing from war or hunger, forced to undertake journeys full of danger and violence, find welcome and new opportunities in the countries that receive them.

June & July Second Collections

JUNE 29/30 – PETER’S PENCE

This collection enables the Holy Father to respond with emergency financial assistance to aid the neediest throughout the world – those who suffer as a result of war, oppression, and natural disasters.

JULY 13/14 – SOLIDARITY FUND FOR THE CHURCH IN AFRICA

This Collection provides grants to finance pastoral projects that support the maintenance and growth of the Church in Africa. Funded projects include outreach programs, schools, evangelization, and education of clergy and lay ministers.

Please list below any special intentions for which you would like prayer assistance.

SEMINARIAN BURSES

Thanks To Our Recent Donors: (036)3 McIntyre & Associates (036)3 McCain Investments Inc. (017) Knights of Columbus Council 1337

(035)3 Law Office of Richard W Ward (018) Anna Livengood (036)3 Mr. & Mrs. Charles E. Hubley (036)3 Mr. Shaun Landry (036)3 Mr. & Mrs. John Decknick (036)3 Mary A. Knoop (036)3 Mr. & Mrs. John A. Vanchiere (036)3 Kathleen D. Cush (036)3 Nancy Lynn Staats (036)3 Mary Morgan (049) Cheryl McGowen (017) Queenie M. Cascio (008) Charles & Beverly Bennett (036)3 Lucille S. McGregor (021) Debra Robertson

(035)3 Mr. & Mrs. Chris A. Ward (017) Queenie M. Cascio (036)3 Mr. & Mrs. Thomas L. McGuire (023) Joseph L Cassiere (015) Mr. William Campbell (036)3 Anonymous (035)3 Mr. & Mrs. Chris A. Ward (036)3 Mr. & Mrs. Glen V. Kinsey (032) D.M. & J.P. Barnard (050) D.M. & J.P. Barnard

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 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)

(035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C.

Ward Burse ($10000)

(035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C.

Ward Burse #2 ($10000)

(036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza

Burse ($10000)

(036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza

Burse #2 ($10000)

(040) Servant of God Fr. Isidore Armand Quémerais Burse ($10000)

(041) Servant of God Fr. Jean Pierre Burse ($10000)

(042) Servant of God Fr. Jean-Marie Biler Burse ($10000)

(043) Servant of God Fr. Louis-Marie

Gergaud Burse ($10000)

(044) Servant of God Fr. François Le Vézouët Burse ($10000)

(051) Reverend John Revord Campion Memorial Burse ($10000)

Incomplete Burses:

(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 ($1600) (006) Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze

Memorial Burse #2 ($3832.12)

(007) Dr. Carol Christopher

Memorial Burse ($1200)

(008) St. Jude Parish Burse ($7600) (009) St. John Berchmans Knights of Columbus Council 10728 Burse ($1550)

(011) Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #2 ($5200)

(015) Bishop’s Seminarian Burse ($4485)

(016) Elaine Malloy Frantz Memorial Burse ($1000)

(017) Msgr. George Martinez Knights of Columbus Council 1337 Burse ($8996)

(018) Knights of St. Peter Claver Council 144 Burse ($1300) (021) Rev. Edmund "Larry" Niehoff Memorial Burse ($2250) (022) Rev. Blane O'Neil, OFM Memorial Burse ($1578) (023) Msgr. Edmund J. Moore

Memorial Burse ($7000) (024) Rev. Joseph Puthupally Memorial Burse ($2150) (025) Kathleen Hightower Memorial Burse ($800)

(028) Friends-n-Faith Burse ($750) (029) Rev. Kenneth Williams Memorial Burse ($200) (030) Ottis and Anne Krupa Littlejohn Memorial Burse ($7333.34)

(032) Madeline and Joe Tiller Memorial Burse ($6200) (034) Joseph B. and Lucille Provenza Cordaro Burse ($7650) (035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward Burse #3 ($2620) (036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse #3 ($7760)

(037) Manuel & Catherine Licciardi, and John & Beverly Miller Burse ($6000)

(038) The Malone Family Burse ($250)

(039) St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Knights of Columbus Council 9260 Burse ($750)

(045) Sister Martinette Rivers Memorial Burse ($200) (046) Domestic Church Burse ($5000)

(047) Troops of St. George Burse ($5000)

(048) Rev. Joseph Kallookalam Burse ($5000)

(049) Rev. Philip Michiels Burse ($1650)

(050) St. Joseph Shreveport Mary's Workers Burse ($6200)

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 or by scanning the QR Code here. Please make all checks payable to the Diocese of Shreveport. Be sure to note the name of the burse in the memo line. Burses are completed at $10,000.

JUNE 1

Saint Justin, Martyr

JUNE 2

FEASTS & SOLEMNITIES

The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)

JUNE 3

Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs

JUNE 5

Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr

JUNE 6

Saint Norbert, Bishop

JUNE 7

The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

JUNE 8

The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary

JUNE 11

Saint Barnabas, Apostle

JUNE 13

Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church

JUNE 19

Saint Romuald, Abbot

JUNE 21

Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, Religious

Where is

Bishop Malone this month?

JUNE 22

Saint Paulinus of Nola, Bishop; Saints John Fisher, Bishop, and Thomas More, Martyrs; BVM

JUNE 24

The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

JUNE 27

Saint Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

JUNE 28

Saint Irenaeus, Bishop, Martyr, and Doctor of the Church

JUNE 29

Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

JUNE 5TH

Confirmation; St. Joseph Church, Mansfield; 6:00 PM

JUNE 11TH – 15TH

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Spring Meeting; Louisville, Kentucky

JUNE 16TH

Confirmation; St. Patrick Church, Lake Providence; 8:30 AM

JUNE 23RD

Mass in Celebration of the 10th Anniversary of Deacons Ordained in 2014; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 5:30 PM

JUNE 28TH

Diocesan Finance Council Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 12:00 PM

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: Apostolic Nuncio, Christophe Cardinal Pierre offers communion during the Red Mass on May 3rd at Holy Trinity Catholic Church.