October 2023 - A Heart for the Hurting

A Heart For The Hurting

RESPECT LIFE MONTH

CATHOLIC CONNECTION

PUBLISHER

Bishop Francis I. Malone

EDITOR

Kirsten Shrewsberry

EDITORIAL BOARD

October 2023

Volume 33, Number 3

A HEART FOR THE HURTING

CONTRIBUTORS

L’Anne Sciba

Delia Barr

Mike Van Vranken

Rosalba Quiroz

Karen Dill

Karl Yabut

Sean Simien

Thomas Eddleman

Bennett Rutz

Sandra Wyatt Nalley

Charlene Barrow

Robin Jennings

Diane Ward

Mary Arcement Alexander

Jordan Harris

Amy Fahkre

Cassie Key

Tessa Hoff

Stephanie Haney

Polly Maciulski

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.

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

PRO-LIFE MEANS ALL LIFE

Kirsten Shrewsberry, Editor and Diocesan Director of PR

from the editor

“IF YOUR CHURCH AIN’T CRYING, IT’S DYING!” Isn’t that just the truth? I laughed the first time I heard Fr. Kevin say that when someone asked him how he kept going while the kids at 9:30 AM Mass at St. Joseph screamed. The phrase has stayed with me as somewhat of a rallying cry when I find myself worrying that my kids aren’t well behaved enough to be at Mass or that I might be judged by their behavior or clothes or any number of things.

When I think of pro-life ministry my heart hurts. Pro-life ministry doesn’t just refer to an end to abortions, it is our call as Catholics to protect life from conception to natural death. We are called to protect the unborn, the poor, the sick, the elderly – all people. My heart hurts for the people who are not cared for, especially the mother who feels she has no choice but to have an abortion, and who will live with those emotional wounds for the rest of her life.

Locally there are many resources and organizations providing healing for those we are called to minister to. Organizations like Mary’s House providing resources for expecting mothers, or Catholic Charities helping new parents with parenting classes and resources. We also have groups like St. Vincent de Paul Society providing urgent and needed support to our vulnerable populations. Our work doesn’t stop there, though. We need to continue to fervently pray for healing for those hurting from the pains of abortion, the pains of social inequity and generational poverty, the infirmed and sick, and those nearing the end of their lives. We need to donate our time, talent, and treasures to help lift up those in pain and help bring all people to Christ.

This month we celebrate life in all its stages, from the unborn to the children screaming during the priest’s homily during Mass, to the sick, to the happily retired, to the people entering into God’s eternal rest. I hope you’ll find time to pray for the souls of unborn children and for healing for those who have suffered the pain of an abortion. I pray you celebrate birthdays and milestones – big and small. This is life, my friends, let’s live it.

Cover photo by Benjamin Luckett, Diocesan Director of Digital Evangelization.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE SEASON? A favorite month of the year? I have always been drawn to October. I guess there are several reasons: first, summer has given way to fall – the mornings have a crisp air about them, replacing the heat of the summer; the leaves in the trees have new and brilliant colors, football season is full of activity, and the Church reminds us that a special focus of ours should be on “life.” I am a little prejudiced about life, especially life fully alive in the womb. My mother had at least ten pregnancies. She lost one child at birth, but when I think of her, I always see her as a pregnant woman. For that reason, and others, I believe the most beautiful women in the world are expectant mothers. Their fullness reminds me of a quote I heard many years ago: “a newborn child is a sign from God that life will go on!” From the moment of their conception, throughout the pregnancy, and at the moment when they see the

from the bishop

sunlight for the first time, new life is always a precious thing to see, and recognizing that an unborn child is first and always a gift from God, their presence among us is a pre-eminent gift –the most important and valued gift from Him.

Unfortunately, we live in a world that does not always share our values when it comes to life. It has always come as a point of irony to me that people, in general, breathe in the new and fresh air with the coming of fall. That they are drawn to the sight of flowers, or puppies, or a sunset aglow in the western sky, but way down on the list, at least for some, is the invaluable gift of human life in the womb.

The month of October has a special emphasis on reminding us that there is nothing more sacred than an innocent life. Last month we remembered the thousands of innocent lives lost on 9/11. The end of America’s involvement in the war in Afghanistan underscored the many innocent civilian and military personnel who were sacrificed in a terrible war. The daily news is almost always replete with stories of a tragedy in our communities, and especially touching when it involves the innocent and the young.

I live in hope that together – and soon – we will champion with added fervor the cause of the innocent, especially the unborn, having taken seriously their irreplaceable lives. May this new fall with the signs of life that fill the trees be a reminder that God is constantly at work bringing about new life among us and charging us to be the voice of those who cannot speak for themselves.

May your fall be colorful, your autumn bright, and your heart full of awe at the gift of life from the Lord! And may this become your favorite season too!

They Didn’t Even Know Me

L’Anne Sciba, Mary’s House Director

AT MARY’S HOUSE, I OFTEN PONDER MOTHER MARY AND HER FAITH IN GOD WHEN SHE SAID “YES,” TO ANGEL GABRIEL.

Of course, Mary was responding to God’s invitation to be the Mother of God. She was sinless and was full of God’s grace. But she experienced God’s plan as a pregnant young woman living in this world. She had emotions and intellect and free will. Imagine her situation. What did her parents say? How about Joseph, her fiancé? Did the neighbors talk about her? When we experience unexpected trials, we need people around who care about us. It’s no different for the women who come to Mary’s House.

Because we help hundreds of women every year, Mary’s House partners with churches that host Embrace Grace groups. Each pregnant woman who attends Embrace Grace said “Yes” to the invitation to attend twelve classes that introduced them to Jesus, new people, practical information, and the love of God through the Church.

You help us love young mothers when you bring suppers, baby gifts, and kindness throughout the semester. A baby shower for the moms is the final event held at Embrace Grace. Leaders are trained to mentor single mothers. But at the baby showers, people like you, honor the moms and celebrate them for choosing life for their babies.

One of the moms described her experience at the baby shower like this: “All of these people; they didn’t even know me; they were there for us.”

Embrace Grace is just one way to help pregnant women in this diocese. Over 3,000 women have come to Mary’s House for help. Hundreds of volunteers and thousands of donors and supporters have made it possible for us to help them and their babies.

God works through each of us to bring his love and life to the world. What can you do to help Mary’s House bring life to North Louisiana? Pray, volunteer, and donate at MarysHouse.net.

Mary, our Mother, please pray for us and especially for all mothers.

Photo by Jonathan Dick, OSFS on Unsplash

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Bossier Civic Center

Mark Your Calendar! Fete for Life returns on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at the Bossier Civic Center. Join us and enjoy dinner and hear from our keynote speaker, Matt Birk. Matt Birk is not only a 2013 Super Bowl Champion, and the 2011 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, but also a devout Catholic Husband and father of eight children. We look forward to seeing you there! Stay tuned for tickets and more information on our website and social media pages.

Reflections on Embrace Grace Ministry

Delia Barr, Diocesean Director of Faith Formation

I HAVE BEEN SO IMPRESSED WITH MARY’S HOUSE SINCE I ARRIVED IN SHREVEPORT THREE YEARS AGO.

First, is that little yellow house the most inviting home! I just want to go in and visit, and when you do go in you are so welcomed by loving, kind people. I have heard that the attitude of a business starts at the top and that could not be truer. L’Anne Sciba is the most genuine, kind, generous, loving person I have ever encountered. For this reason, it was an easy “Yes” for me to volunteer to lead an Embrace Grace group. I admit I was very nervous and unsure of leading a group but with support from Mary’s House and Embrace Grace it was a blessing. My first encounter with Embrace Grace was being invited to a baby shower at St. Joseph Parish. I gladly went and was blown away by the generosity of so many people. So many gifts, it was amazing. I sat with a brave girl I had never met and was instantly smitten with this lovely young woman and her delightful son. After the shower I was all in, where do I sign up?

My next encounter with Embrace Grace was at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s parish where I was on a team with seasoned volunteers that were an incredible source of encouragement. That session of Embrace Grace, we only had one brave girl or “bloom” as we call them, but she was very special. I often wondered if she was overwhelmed with three to four women serving in this group with just this one brave girl, but it was all in God’s Plan. When our sessions were finished, she shared that she was going to miss the attention she received from all of us. We were just what she needed at this time in her life. It is amazing how God works. I thought we may be overwhelming, but truly we were filling her with the graces she needed. When I started an Embrace Grace group at the Cathedral, she came to our baby shower. Again, God was working, as one of our brave girls had shared she was bringing 3-4 family members to the shower. On the day of the shower no one showed up for her. Our brave girl from SEAS that came to the shower sat with her, they had mutual friends and truly bonded. It was a beautiful sight.

I began a new group in the spring of 2023 at my home parish Cathedral of St. John Berchmans. I was overwhelmed with the response of people wanting

to help and serve in this ministry. It was so wonderful to see so many people come out to see how they could support these young women at this time of their life.

At our first meeting we had five brave girls and soon after added one more. It was a little uncomfortable getting to know one another, but it seemed to go well. At the end of the meeting one brave girl (our youngest, 18 years old) said, “thanks I appreciate this, but I’m just not sure I’ll be able to come every week.” My heart just sank, I thought this was code for “See ya’ later, this isn’t for me!” But the following week she was back, the first to arrive! It was such an amazing experience watching her bloom into a lovely young woman. At times when no one was really contributing to the discussion, this young lady would look over to another brave girl and say, “What do you think?” She could call them out in a way that if I said it, it would have sounded pushy. It was amazing how she was such a young leader.

One of the sessions near the end of the program the girls reflect on what they have learned and how they have changed over the past several weeks. I was amazed to hear how they all shared how much they enjoyed coming on Tuesday evening, they hated it if they had to miss.They shared how they felt such peace and welcoming when they came. It blew me away; they had not opened up about any of that before that meeting. Just when you think, “I’m not sure I’m getting my message across,” the Lord gives you a wink and lets you see how He is working in others.

My husband and I have prayed at abortion clinics in Little Rock, Arkansas, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Shreveport, Louisiana. Embrace Grace has been such a gift to me, it has enabled me to walk with these young women in unplanned situations who choose life.

My husband serves the group by being the security guard outside of the building and making sure everyone gets to their car safely after the meeting. We also have many volunteers who provide a meal at each of our sessions. I send out a SignupGenius for meals and it fills up within days.

For more information or to volunteer with Mary’s House please visit maryshouse.net

THE LORD THE LORD, A GOD OF MERCY

Mike Van Vranken, Spiritual Director

MOSES ASKED IF HE COULD SEE GOD’S FACE.

God’s reply was for Moses to stand by a rock, and God would pass by and announce himself, but Moses could not see his face. So, God passed before him and proclaimed: “The Lord, the Lord, a God gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love and fidelity . . . and forgiving . . .” Ex 34, 6-7. Can you hear God saying those words to you? How special you must be. Do we understand that God says those same words to all of God’s creatures? No matter what we’ve done, God’s love and mercy are endless.

Twenty-five to thirty years ago, a young woman I know confided in me that she was pregnant. This is her sacred and intimate story. In honor and reverence for her and her journey, I will respectfully not share the major details. What I will share is that because of the complex circumstances, as much as she lovingly wanted her baby, she was hesitantly considering an abortion. I offered her several friends I knew who could help her emotionally, physically, and financially through a full-term pregnancy and birth. I repeatedly shared my faith and the merciful God we both loved. She agonized painfully for two or three weeks. Her desire for the baby, on one hand, and the myriad of issues on the other were constantly battling within her fatigued and confused body. Enormous stress, guilt, fear, and doubts were taking their toll. Finally, she tearfully called to say a friend was about to drive her to the abortion clinic. We both cried. The Lord, the Lord, a God of mercy and forgiveness!

The aftermath of the abortion was worse than imaginable. Her broken heart, so desperate for healing, was deep in pain and depression. She was alone as most of her friends kept their distance. She was filled with too much shame to talk to me. At a time when she needed the Church the most, no one came. At some point over the following months, she saw a right-to-life march on TV. She read signs that used phrases like “body count,” “stop killing babies,” and “abortion is murder.” Her spiral into depression worsened. Her self-guilt and shame were ravaging her ability to function. She stopped seeing or

talking to almost everyone. The Lord, the Lord, a God of mercy and forgiveness!

Almost three decades later, I often wonder about her. How is she doing? Did she eventually have children? Is she still living? More important, did she ever experience God’s mercy and forgiveness? It was there all along. I hope she was able to swim in it, bask in it, savor it, and allow it to consume her. Did her shattered heart ever experience his healing? The Lord, the Lord, a God of mercy and forgiveness!

The Bible repeatedly reminds us that we reap what we sow. If we plant soybeans, we get soybeans. If we plant cotton, we get cotton. And if we plant love, we get love. What would have happened if we had been preaching love rather than the words murder and killer? What would have happened if this woman had known, by our example, that God loves her, her baby, and the baby’s father, and we all love them too? What would have happened if guilt and shame were not the message, but love, hope, mercy, and forgiveness were our life statement? Would her decision have been different? Could we have averted a broken and shattered heart?

Virtual Presentation

Presenter: Mike Van Vranken

Wednesday November 8, 2023 10:00 am or 6:00pm

Trained spiritual director and Internship Instructor, Mike Van Vranken, a graduate of the Archdiocesan Spirituality Center’s Internship in Spiritual Direction, will hold an "Informational Meeting" announcing our next Training Program in Spiritual Direction.

Register on the web: https/nolacatholic.org/registration

Email archspirctr@arch-no.org or telephone (504) 861-3254.

The Lord, the Lord, a God of mercy and forgiveness!

I ask a lot of questions. And I humbly know that I have no answers to my questions. But we do have promises. The Bible is filled with stories of God’s fidelity to his creation. In fact, it seems the more the people sinned, the greater God’s mercies and love. I think the bigger problem is that you and I are not as loving and merciful as God is. Jesus asked the woman in the street, “Has no one condemned you?” “Neither do I condemn you.” Or, in today’s vernacular, I hear him saying, “Who am I to judge?” Jesus met this woman where she was. Caught in the act, she was dragged into the street, probably half naked, shamed, and accused by her peers. Yet, Jesus bends down and talks to her and frees her from her captors. I wonder if that is a model we could pattern our pro-life activities after. We might be able to change laws. And that’s fine. But until we change hearts, nothing really changes at all. Do we want to heal someone’s broken and shattered heart? We begin by changing ours. “Love never fails” 1 Cor 13:8. We have a model of love and forgiveness in both the Hebrew scriptures and the New Testament. The Lord, the Lord, a God of mercy and forgiveness!

Gov. John Bel Edwards celebrated the Eucharist with the Little Flower Church community on September 3.

HEALING SPECIFIC WOUNDS

Rosalba Quiroz, Diocese of Shreveport Executive Administrative Assistant to the Bishop

WE ARE ALL CARRYING WOUNDS. Deep in our hearts, we all have some kind of regret, an unfulfilled dream, an unresolved issue, or simply anxiety about the unknown. Women and men who have been affected by the decision to choose abortion carry a unique wound. The “what if?” wound; if I had been stronger, if I had had the support of my family, society or the Church to support me in my time of need. Constantly rationalizing - left unresolved for years or even decades - can be soul crushing, not only to the person, but to those around them as well.

Just like a physical wound, emotional and spiritual wounds require specific treatment. Fortunately, the Church, in her love for all her children, finds ways to assist in healing the soul from past wounds that were thought to be impossible to heal. The wound left by an abortion can begin to heal with a weekend retreat that is specifically dedicated to it.

Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat is a beautiful weekend experience, where its participants live the love of Christ and the mercy of our Father. This retreat is approved by the United States of Conference of Catholic Bishops and is offered in over 50 countries and different languages, all with the same purpose of healing the anguish and pain caused by abortion. For the Lord tells us, “ I saw their ways, but I will heal them. I will lead them and restore full comfort to them and to those who mourn for them, creating words of comfort. Peace! Peace to those who are far and near, says the LORD; and I will heal them.” (Is. 57:18-19)

If you or a loved one is suffering the consequences of an abortion and would like more information on Rachel’s Vineyard, call the confidential hotline at 318-588-1064 or visit www.rachelsvineyard.org. Team members and participants maintain absolute confidentiality before, during and after the Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat. Whether the abortion happened a year or decades ago, the wound is great and will not go away without doing the work of healing. This retreat will help heal that wounded heart.

THE NEXT RACHEL’S VINEYARD RETREAT WILL BE OCTOBER

20-22, 2023.

POST-ROE DISCIPLESHIP: THE CALL TO HELP WOMEN WHO CHOOSE LIFE

Karen Dill, Spiritual Director

MY PRO-LIFE ADVOCACY BEGAN IN JANUARY OF 1973 WHEN THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT PASSED ROE V. WADE MAKING ABORTION LEGAL IN OUR NATION. I wasn’t a Catholic convert back then, but I believed on a gut level that snuffing out the lives of unborn children was unfair. Several decades later, I became an activist. I accompanied high school students to Washington, D.C., to participate in some cold and rainy Marches for Life. I examined politicians’ platforms for pro-life leanings. I served on the Holy Angels board, advocating for the lives of the developmentally disabled. I became an Embrace Grace leader in my parish, actively aiding women facing unplanned pregnancies. And then, in June of 2022, I rushed to daily Mass at St. John Berchmans to give thanks that Roe v. Wade had finally been repealed.

One day on social media I read a comment that went something like this: Those pro-lifers are really just antiabortion. They don’t lift a finger to help women who choose to keep their babies. I immediately felt defensive but had to admit that the writer makes a good point. If we as Catholic Christians don’t act on our convictions about the sanctity of all human life, from conception to natural death, where does that leave us in this post-Roe era?

In the Diocese of Shreveport, we have so many opportunities to get involved in helping women who have chosen to keep their babies despite finding themselves in sometimes desperate circumstances. We can volunteer at Mary’s House, Catholic Charities, Gabriel’s Closet, or Embrace Grace groups. We can attend the annual ProLife Banquet. But we can also reach out on a personal level by praying for, supporting and not judging those

women who cross our paths in our daily lives. Sometimes they are sitting on the pew next to us in Mass.

During the years that I met with pregnant women in Embrace Grace groups, I often heard heartbreaking stories of the criticism and rejection they encountered in their own churches. Their stories made me think of the words Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, “Neither do I condemn you.” Instead of chastising or condemning, this ministry tries hard to help women make better choices in the future by learning their identities in Christ. We pampered them, loved on them, flooded them with scriptures, fed them home-cooked meals, hosted baby showers and followed up with them after they gave birth. Our team still hears from many of them today, months or even years after they attended our meetings. We have seen the fruits of our labors in the healthy babies and mothers we came to know on a personal basis. I have never felt discipleship on a deeper level.

As I read and study the Bible, I can’t for the life of me find a verse of scripture that supports what the pro-choice proponents call “reproductive rights.” I often, however, read or hear verses that jump out at me with a pro-life message. Psalm 139: 13-15 “You created every part of me; You put me together in my mother’s womb…when I was growing there in secret, you saw me before I was born.” Or 1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 “Don’t you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourselves but to God; he bought you for a price.” And the clincher, Deuteronomy 30: 19 “I am now giving you the choice between life and death…and I call heaven and earth to witness the choice you make.” Choose life.

CAMPUS MINISTRY

Karl Yabut, Director of Campus Ministry

FALL SEMESTER

IS BY FAR THE MOST IMPORTANT TIME OF THE YEAR ACROSS

EVERY COLLEGE IN THE NATION. Chances are by the time you’re reading this article; you’ve watched your fair share of the LSU Tigers on TV or sat in the stands at another college football game and felt the energy of a large roaring crowd. By the time you’ve received this article, college students on the semester system are close to midterms and fall break. By this point in the school year, freshman students across the nation have settled into a lifestyle and schedule that fit the things that they’ve deemed important in their lives. For Catholic Campus Ministry here in Shreveport and across the diocese, this is the most important time because our organizations are fighting (no, not literally) to be what’s important to our students.

Our events our simple, because our goal is simple – to make lifelong missionary disciples of Jesus Christ. This requires real, authentic relationships that can call each other higher. If you’re from the local Shreveport area and

have been at Carpenter Coffee House, you’ve probably seen us use this awesome facility to host our regular events. These events can range from various activities such as Bob Ross painting nights, pumpkin carving, bible studies, apologetics, book clubs, and so many more, but each time we meet it allows the Holy Spirit to work through my student leaders to see, know, and love each college student that becomes part of our ministry. I have been blessed with almost eight college student leaders across the three main undergraduate campuses in the Shreveport/Bossier area to lead their organizations and help their peers develop a deeper relationship with Our Lord.

As St. Thomas Aquinas prayed in a chapel in front of the crucifix, the voice of Christ called out from the crucifix and said, “You have written well of Me, Thomas. What reward will you receive from Me for your labor?” to which St. Thomas responded, ”Domine, non nisi Te” or “Lord, nothing except You”. I want every student that passes through Shreveport Catholic Campus Ministry to have the best success in their academics and professional endeavors. However, I pray that they strive harder for sainthood and to desire Christ above all else.

HURTING HEARTS

Thomas

What does it mean to have a heart for the hurting? Having a heart for the hurting is showing love and compassion to those who are going through tough times. Having a heart for the hurting is a way to show others love when they are in a tough time. By doing this you can help this person’s relationship with God and Jesus. By showing them love and compassion it teaches them that anything is possible with God. By having a heart for the hurting and being a leader, it shows others how much of an impact something so little can have on someone’s life.

and Bennett Rutz, Students at Jesus the Good Shepherd School misfortunes. He also shows love and compassion towards the sick, sad, and the hungry. This teaches us to be more like Jesus by having a heart for the hurting.

By doing this we can teach others to be good people and to live more like Jesus. Jesus lived a loving and caring life. Jesus gives us an example by doing this. We should use this example and transfer it into our community.

Having compassion is showing sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings and misfortunes of others. By showing compassion to others, you can make their lives so much better and more comfortable.

Having a heart for the hurting can prevent suicidal thoughts, violence, addictions, depression, drugs, the number of homeless people in the community, death, illnesses, sadness, and hurting. This can change lives!

Jesus always showed a heart for the hurting by crying, praying, and worshiping over his friend’s deaths and

The hurting can be anywhere and everywhere in your community. Ways to help the hurting are rehab for the addicted, love for the hated, compassion for the depressed, and care for the sick. By caring for others, you are making our world a better place to live.

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 8:38-39

Sean Simien,

Eddleman,

St. Francis Health: How It Started…How

Saundra Wyatt Nalley, St. Francis Health Director of Marketing

WHERE WE CAME FROM

In 1911, six Franciscan Sisters left their homes in Calais, France, and selflessly set sail across the ocean at the request of Bishop Van de Ven of Alexandria, Louisiana, to open a hospital there.

The mission of this new sanitarium, named after St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the Franciscan Sisters, would be to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to God’s people, especially those most in need. On the opening day, July 22, 1913, the St. Francis Sanitarium and School of Nursing had four patients. By late September, 193 had been admitted. Mother de Bethanie wrote in her diary, “That the hospital be located in Monroe was God’s plan. Everything went so smoothly and fell right into place.”

The original Sanitarium building as pictured in 1923

Sisters at St. Francis in 1923.

Started…How It’s Going

WHERE WE ARE NOW

When St. Francis Health celebrated 100 years of service to the Northeast Louisiana community in 2013, the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Sisters pledged an even brighter second century in Monroe.

Since the beginning of 2019, St. Francis Medical Center leaders have been following through on the Sisters’ promise with the investment of nearly $20 million with plans to spend an additional $20 million each year over the next three years on a variety of technology additions and facility improvements. Even more exciting is the hospital’s commitment for future renovations, improvements and technology across its ministry with a promise to continue to move St. Francis Forward.

Generations of families have trusted St. Francis Health with their healthcare over the past 110 years. Just as their founding Sisters did, St. Francis Health providers and team members continue to answer the call to serve by extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to God’s people —especially those most in need.

Learn more at stfran.com

Sister Mary Ann Sepulvado, Father James Dominic and Dr. Thomas Gullatt, St. Francis Health President, at the 110-year celebration.

Team members line up to have their hands blessed by Father Philip Theempalangattu and Father James Dominic.

St. Francis Medical Center today in downtown Monroe.

THE BEST GIFT

WHERE ARE YOU IN YOUR FAITH LIFE RIGHT NOW? Are you fully committed, going through the motions, or perhaps a little lost?

Navigating a spiritual journey can sometimes be a challenge in today’s world. We try to make time for prayer, but distractions often get in the way. We know the importance of attending Mass and Reconciliation, but other obligations can steer us away from time with God. How do we make space for God in our busy lives? Attending an ACTS retreat is a worthwhile path to explore.

ACTS is an acronym for Adoration, Community,Theology, and Service. These retreats have been enriching the lives of men and women since 1987. Over a million people have attended retreats from all around the world.

Deciding to attend a retreat can raise some common questions:

• I’m so busy, how can I make the time?

• Why is no schedule provided?

• What if I have a health or dietary issue?

• What is the facility like?

Making time for God is paramount for living a satisfying Christian life and a way to express our gratitude for all we have been given. This is God’s retreat, his gift, and it takes place on God’s schedule. Surrendering control may not be easy, however, by removing focus on the schedule, we allow God

to do his work in us. Regarding health concerns, there is always a registered medical professional available throughout the retreat. Special dietary needs are also noted and addressed.

This fall, the women’s and men’s retreats are being held at Bethany Camp and Conference Center in Bethany, LA. It is a well-appointed facility with nice accommodations.

When asked about their retreat experiences, ACTS members said this:

“When I first arrived, I was shy and nervous and wondered why I had signed up. By the end of the retreat, though, I felt at peace. I learned so much about my Catholic faith, and I couldn’t wait to get involved in my church and continue the friendships with the wonderful women I met.” -Joan A.

“What I enjoyed most about my ACTS retreat experience was being around a group of Christian men that had similar beliefs and experiences that I have had. I never had to worry about what I said or shared because they had my back.”

-Rodney D.

There is a spiritual director present at each retreat. Monsignor Matthew Long has been the spiritual director for several ACTS retreats. He tells us, “If you are looking for a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, if you want to grow your faith, if you want to help build up a community, then this is the retreat for you.”

The ACTS retreat is truly a gift to be opened with eager anticipation. The contents of the gift are different for everyone. For some, they receive the gift of time to be with God, joy, or spiritual healing. Others discover a deepened faith, sense of peace, or new friendships.

What will you find when you open this gift?

RETREAT INFORMATION

WOMEN’S FALL RETREAT

November 9-12, 2023, Director: Rachel Feducia

MEN’S FALL RETREAT

November 16-19, 2023, Director: Deacon Bill Roche

Retreat Cost: $200 | Deposit: $75 (to reserve your place) Send-off is in the St. Joseph Narthex (foyer) on Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

To Register: go to www.stjosephchurch.net for more information and to download the registration forms.

Charlene Barrow, Robin Jennings, and Diane Ward

The Healing Heart:

We drove mostly in silence during the 90-mile ride to our destination. My heart was a mixture of sadness, relief, fear, disbelief, hurt and anger. He held my hand the entire way there, every now and again, peeking a glance at me. I struggled to look him in his eyes so instead I pretended that the scenery outside, which I had seen dozens of times before, interested me. He did not want to take this ride with me. He was excited about the possibility of what could be. He was doing what he thought he was supposed to do, be a supportive boyfriend. I, on the other hand, was riddled with fear. The kind of fear that feels debilitating. The kind of fear that tells you the decision you are about to make is the only decision. The kind of fear that convinces you once it is all done you will be fine because the “problem” will soon be solved. The kind of fear that comes only from the enemy.

The above paragraph comes from an outline I wrote for a possible book idea about post-aborted women. I have not actually written the book, rather I am currently pulling ideas together that are a combination of different postaborted women I have counseled over the years, people I have met along the way who have openly shared their stories of abortion, and my own creative writing which I give the Holy Spirit full credit. As a woman, a mental health clinician and a Catholic, I want to write from the prospective of post-aborted women mainly because I believe too many people still cast harsh judgements against them and as a result, make assumptions that simply are not true.

The Story Of Post-Aborted Women

Fear is the number one driving force for most women who choose abortion. As mentioned above, this kind of fear comes from the enemy. This statement does not mean I am making excuses for post-aborted women, rather I am emphasizing the enormous impact Satan has on them when they are most vulnerable, most ashamed, and most misguided by the world around them. If you have a woman in your life that you know is post-aborted or if you have recently found out about a friend or other’s abortion, I encourage you to do the following for her: first, love on her anyway that is available. She needs to know you are loving her not judging her. Second, encourage her to share her story, on her terms and in her time. Let her know that shame and guilt grow best in “darkness,” when they are tucked away as a dirty little secret. When we talk about our shame and guilt, we cast a light on the darkness, a light that eventually casts out the darkness. Third, strongly encourage her to make a good confession (if she’s Catholic), to seek professional help and to consider giving herself the gift of a healing heart through Rachel’s Vineyard retreat that was created for the post-aborted woman.

Brothers and sisters, the girl or woman who chooses abortion is not bad, she is broken and wounded, often in ways she herself is not aware of. Pray for her, love her, care for her, let her know you either understand or you are willing to understand. To my post-aborted sister in Christ, please know that you are good, you are worthy, you are forgiven, you can heal your heart, you can break free from the shame and guilt that bind you. How? Through Jesus, who is the “Light” that shines brighter than the darkest darkness.

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

THE FUTURE OF MEDICINE

WHEN MADDY RODRIGUE ENTERS A ROOM, SHE BRINGS A LIGHT AND CONFIDENCE THAT SPEAKS TO HER BRIGHT FUTURE IN THE MEDICAL FIELD. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Catholic Medical Student Association here in our diocese and she’s an incredible example of the future of medicine. This past month I had the opportunity to sit down with her at Carpenter Coffee House at St. Joseph Church in Shreveport and learn more about her perspective on the future of medicine in America. As a practicing Catholic learning to become a practicing physician, she had great insight to share.

CATHOLIC CONNECTION: Please tell me a little about yourself!

MADDY RODRIGUE: Originally, I’m from Houma, Louisiana. I attended Catholic school growing up and I have two younger siblings. I come from a big family and we’re all really close. I went to [Texas Christian University] for undergrad in biochemistry and loved it. When it came time to apply for med school, I felt that LSU Health Shreveport was very relational, and it felt like a good fit.

CC: Why did you choose to become a physician?

MR: I wanted to do musical theater originally! I always really enjoyed school, I was good at science, and I

wanted to weigh my options. I have a lot of family in the medical field, so it was already familiar, and I eventually decided to go that track. When I first started school, I wasn’t completely sure, but once I started volunteering and shadowing doctors, I found that I really enjoyed the interactions the doctors had with patients. The medical field is very poignant, it’s not just a business transaction, it’s somebody humbling themselves to ask for help. I really like how medicine is a constant question, there’s a constant need for collaboration to help the patient.

CC: Have you started to consider what you want to specialize in?

MR: I enjoyed internal medicine, but I’m still really open at this point. I feel that as a woman my nature is to care for others. I want to care for my patients beyond a surface level – I want to make sure that my patients are okay when they leave. Do they have resources? Do they need more help? As a woman I feel that I take on a lot of people’s hurt and pain. I think that will be a big factor in my continued learning experience in picking a specialty.

CC: How does your Catholic faith impact your journey in med school?

MR: I think my faith is a big reason why I choose medicine in the first place. I grew up learning that this life isn’t for me. It’s important for me to give to others and uplift

Kirsten Shrewsberry, Diocese of Shreveport Editor and Director of PR

others – it’s part of our call from Jesus. I always wanted my career to be about helping others and a big part of that is my foundation from my Catholic education. It’s my duty to help others get to heaven and know Jesus’ message and call.

I remember when I was in biology in undergraduate and my dad was worried that my studies would cause my faith to fall away. I would sit in class and learn about the intricacies of how the earth and our bodies work and that didn’t make me fall away from my faith, it only confirmed my faith! None of this could happen

by accident, so there must be a Creator who intended this. My studies strengthened my faith.

I feel like the medical field in general is a service and a vocation to the people who are asking for help. There’s a connection that needs to be made to let your patient trust you and that you are feeling for them. I felt like that came a lot easier to me because of the call I felt from my faith.

CC: With this post-Roe world we live in, how do you approach your future in medicine?

MR: I’m nervous for the future, I don’t know what’s to be asked or required of me by my education in future rotations. It’s something I’ve had to pray about. I’m scared to be penalized but I know that I need to stand firm in my faith. I’m trying to be very intentional in how I learn during my OB/GYN rotations and focusing on spending time with Catholic doctors. I hope to be able to care for my patients’ full circumstances and help them in every way possible. You do your part, and do it well, and do it intentionally, and hope that they choose life.

You do your part, and do it well, and do it intentionally, and hope that they chose life.

Interview edited for length and clarity.

SANANDO HERIDAS ESPECIFICAS

SÉ QUE TODOS CARGAMOS HERIDAS.

En lo más profundo de nuestro corazón, todos tenemos algún tipo de remordimiento, un sueño sin cumplir, algún asunto sin resolver, o simplemente ansiedad por lo desconocido. Las mujeres y hombres que se han visto afectados por la decisión de elegir un aborto cargan con una herida única, la herida del “¿qué hubiese sido?” Si hubiese sido más fuerte, si hubiese tenido el apoyo de mi familia, de la sociedad o de la Iglesia para apoyarme en esos momentos de necesidad. La constante racionalización – sin resolver por años o décadas, puede encoger el alma, no solo a la persona, sino también de quienes le rodean.

Al igual que una herida física, las heridas emocionales y espirituales, requieren de un tratamiento específico. Afortunadamente La Madre Iglesia en su cariño por todos sus hijos encuentra maneras de ayudar a curar el alma de heridas pasadas, que creíamos imposibles de restaurar. La herida dejada por un aborto puede empezar a sanar con un retiro de fin de semana dedicado específicamente a ello.

El Retiro del Viñedo de Raquel es una hermosa experiencia de fin de semana, donde sus participantes viven el amor de Cristo y la misericordia de nuestro Padre. El retiro está aprobado por los “Obispos Católicos de Estados Unidos (United States of Catholic Bishops)” y se ofrece en más de 50 países, en diferentes idiomas. Todos con el mismo propósito de sanar la angustia y el dolor causado por un aborto. Porque El Señor nos dice, “He visto su conducta, pero los sanaré; los guiaré y devolveré el consuelo a los dolientes de Israel, creando alabanza en sus labios. Paz, paz, a los de lejos y a los de cerca, dijo El Señor. Y los sanaré” (Is. 57:18-19)

Si usted o un ser querido está sufriendo las consecuencias de un aborto, llame al 318-588-1064 para obtener información, o visite el sitio web www. rachelsvineyard.org. Los miembros del equipo y los participantes mantienen una confidencialidad absoluta antes, durante y después de El Retiro del Viñedo de Raquel. El aborto pudo haber ocurrido hace un año o décadas, la herida es grande y no desaparecerá sin hacer el trabajo de sanar, este retiro ayudará a sanar ese corazón herido.

El próximo Retiro del Viñedo de Raquel será del 20 al 22 de octubre de 2023, para angloparlantes. Estaremos ofreciendo un “Retiro del Viñedo de Raquel” para hispanohablantes que se llevará a cabo del 19-21 de abril del 2024. Favor de llamar a la línea directa y confidencial para registrarse al teléfono 318-588-1064.

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

Coordinador: Sergio Seinos 318-393-2331

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 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

St. Lawrence of Swartz Celebrates 45 Years

ST. LAWRENCE CATHOLIC CHURCH OF SWARTZ RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS 45TH ANNIVERSARY (1978-2023). Bishop Francis Malone presided over the Mass and was concelebrated by Father John Paul Crispin, Father Tobias Obado, and assisted by Deacon Bill Goss.

What began as a small community of about fifty members has multiplied over the years. Parishioners of St. Lawrence donate their time to volunteering not only for their local church, but throughout the community assisting with various programs throughout the Diocese of Shreveport.

Some of the original founders who are still with St. Lawrence are Dott Justice and Norma Lee Hance. These ladies have served the St. Lawrence Community for over 45 years, serving on the Altar Society, Parish Council, Meals on Wheels, in addition to serving with the St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy.

St. Lawrence is dedicated to serving its members and its community through prayer, evangelization, service, and adoration.

St. Lawrence History: In 1978, the community of Catholics in Swartz, La., was given the mission under the direction of Bishop Graves, Diocese of Alexandria, to bring Catholic Catechism to the children and young people in Northeast Ouachita parish. Under the guidance of Fr. Anthony Cumella, the mission of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Swartz began. A first Mass was held at the Progressive Men’s Club with a covered pool table serving as an altar. Masses continue in people’s homes and the gym of Swartz Elementary School. Ground was broken for the building of St. Lawrence Catholic Church on June 17, 1980. The church was dedicated on Easter Sunday, April 19, 1981, by Fr. Earl Beaulieu under its current name St. Lawrence Catholic Church.

Priests that have served St. Lawrence include Fr. Sam Polizzi, Fr. Herve LaJoie, Fr. Patrick Sculley, Fr. Thomas Kizito Nwachukwu, Fr. Bob Inzina, Fr. Robert Kennedy, Fr. Pat Madden, Fr. Richard Norsworthy, and Fr. Job Edathinatt Scaria. Other spiritual leaders important to St. Lawrence have been Monsignor Edmund Moore, Deacon Jack & Betty Cummings, Bishop William Friend, Bishop Michael Duca, and our current Bishop Francis I. Malone.

OUR LEVEL OF ENGAGEMENT

Mike Van Vranken, Spiritual Director

SO MUCH OF THE RESEARCH OVER THE LAST TWENTY YEARS HAS BEEN FOCUSED

ON CHURCH ATTENDANCE. Who’s regularly attending, and who’s not? Natural responses have included trying old programs to bring people back, creating new ideas to reduce the numbers who are leaving, and denial, hoping it’s just a cycle and everyone will return soon. These have mostly been knee-jerk reactions to a global issue that most have not stopped to consider contemplatively. In short, are we willing to take a long, loving, non-judgmental look at the complex reality of who we have become as the Church and who we are called to be as a church?

Fortunately, we have a leader who has steadfastly brought together the entire worldwide church to engage in this activity by listening to the people of God for answers. And the result of his commitment to Christ continues this month with the Roman Catholic Synod on Synodality. You have been personally invited to engage in this process over the last two years, and that invitation continues.

This month, in Vatican City, you, as a part of the local, diocesan, and U. S. Church, will be represented by more than 400 participants. And the call for each of us to

be personally engaged persists. More than just reading about what happens at the synod sessions, we are called to pray with and have open local discussions about the issues being simultaneously considered in Rome. If you have the heart and desire to do so, the following are very few of the questions you are asked to discern with others prayerfully.

How does the service of charity and commitment to justice and care for our common home nourish communion in a synodal Church?

Walking together means not leaving anyone behind and remaining alongside those who struggle the most. How are we building a synodal Church capable of promoting the belonging and participation of the least within the Church and in society?

What steps can a synodal Church take to imitate ever more closely its Master and Lord, who walks with all in unconditional love and proclaims the fullness of the Gospel truth?

How can welcoming migrants become an opportunity to walk with people from another culture, especially when we share the same faith? What provision is made for migrant communities in local pastoral care?

Other questions include the poor, women, youth, elderly, LGBTQ+, those with special needs, and all people everywhere. How do we become the loving and real presence of Christ to everyone?

Our own level of engagement in the synod is not dependent on what others think or what some pundit considers important. This is about both our personal and communal relationship with our ever-loving and forgiving God. Your level of engagement with the synod is determined by you and God. How will you respond?

MAKE AN IMPACT

2023 Catholic Service Appeal

Your gift to the 2023 Catholic Service Appeal supports 19 different ministries (including seminarian education and vocations) that benefit every single parishioner in the Diocese of Shreveport. You can make a donation anytime between now and December 31, 2023, to support this year’s appeal.

Your gift of any amount will make an impact. Please support the Catholic Service Appeal today.

“The support and prayers received from the entire diocese helped me during my time in seminary. Thank you to everyone who has given to the Catholic Service Appeal.”

-Rev. Kelby Tingle

BLESSING OF THE GRAVES

EASTERN DEANERY

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29TH

St. Matthew Cemetery – Blessing – 1:30 PM

314 North 11th Street, Monroe

Riverview Cemetery – Blessing – 1:00 PM

3901 South Grand Street, Monroe

St. Paschal Cemetery – Blessing – 1:30 PM

1500 Arkansas Road, West Monroe

Mulhearn Cemetery – 3:00 PM

623 Highway 80 East, Monroe

St. Joseph Cemetery – Blessing after 11:00 AM Mass

760 North Washington Street, Bastrop

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH

Lake Providence City Cemetery – Blessing – 10:00 AM

1450 Lake Street, Lake Providence

Kilbourne Cemetery – Blessing – 10:00 AM

Maple Street, Kilbourne

Forest Line Cemetery – Blessing – 10:00 AM

7445 Highway 17, Pioneer

Redwing Cemetery – Blessing – 11:00 AM

100-135 LA-582, Oak Grove

Providence Memorial Park – Blessing – 11:00 AM

7278 Highway 134, Lake Providence

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH

Oak Grove Cemetery – Blessing – 2:00 PM

144 North Old Kilbourne Road, Oak Grove

St. Lucy Cemetery – Blessing after 9:00 AM Mass

1100 South Second Street, Hodge

WESTERN DEANERY

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28TH

Centuries Memorial Park Cemetery– 11:00 AM

8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport

318-686-4334

Meet at Gazebo – North End of Property

Forest Park Cemetery - West – 11:00 AM

4000 Meriwether Road, Shreveport

318-686-1461

Meet at Mausoleum

Hill Crest Memorial Park Cemetery – 11:00 AM

601 Highway 80 East, Haughton

318-949-9415

Meet at Mausoleum

Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery – 11:00 AM

6915 West 70th Street, Shreveport

318-603-3120

Meet at Office

Round Grove Memorial Gardens Cemetery – 12:15 PM

2869 Round Grove Lane, Shreveport

318-425-5852

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29TH

Forest Park Cemetery – 2:00 PM

3700 St. Vincent Avenue, Shreveport 318-861-3544

Meet at Mausoleum across from Office

Rose-Neath Cemetery – 2:00 PM

5185 Swan Lake Spur, Bossier City 318-746-9344

Meet at Statue in Catholic Section on Right

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND

St. Joseph Cemetery – 11:00 AM (With Mass)

2100 Texas Avenue, Shreveport 318-868-4441

SOUTHERN DEANERY

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29TH

Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery – 2:00 PM

7970 Mike Clark Road, Keithville

Meet at Committal Shelter 318-925-0612

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31ST

St. Ann Cemetery – 8:00 AM

5272 Highway 482, Noble

St. Joseph Cemetery – 12:00 PM

305 Hammond Street, Zwolle

St. Catherine Cemetery – 3:00 PM

878 Highway 1218, Noble

Old St. Joseph Cemetery– 4:00 PM

Bucky Murdock Road, Zwolle

St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery – Blessing after 5:30 PM Mass

1130 San Antonio Avenue, Many

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND

Mansfield Cemetery – 8:45 AM

303 Van Buren Street, Mansfield

Highland Cemetery – 8:45 AM

1500 Old Jefferson Highway, Mansfield

Immaculate Conception Cemetery & Rock Chapel Cemetery, Carmel – 10:30 AM; Blessing & Social

1822 Smithport Lake Road, Mansfield

St. Mary’s Cemetery – 11:45 AM – Blessing & Social 1009 Highway 346, Pelican

St. John the Baptist Cemetery – 12:30 PM 21527 Highway 175, Pelican

St. Francis Xavier Cemetery – 2:00 PM

611 Friendship Road, Frierson

St. Ann Cemetery #2 – 5:15 PM

Jeanne Lane, Stonewall

St. Ann Cemetery #1 – 6:00 PM – Mass & Blessing

2264 Highway 171, Stonewall

Jesus the Good Shepherd School

Amy Fakhre, Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic School Development Office

Academic Superstars of Spring Testing

JGS School is proud to recognize the academic excellence of three students who excelled during Spring 2023 Terra Nova testing. The Terra Nova test is administered to grades 3 through 6 and features multiple assessments to measure important higher-order thinking skills as well as basic and applied skills. These assessments generate norm-referenced achievement scores, criterion-referenced objective mastery scores, and performancelevel information.

While our school showed tremendous overall success within the subject areas of reading, language, and math, we had three Rams who scored within the 90th percentile range in each of the three tested subject areas. These students were Caleb Moore, Peyton Traxler, and Hudson Patrick. This level of performance states that these young men scored higher than over 90% of the students within their grade level on a national level.

We would like to thank each of them for modeling the importance of academic excellence that we value here at Jesus the Good Shepherd School.

Blessing of the Classrooms

Fr. Peter Mangum and Principal Lisa Patrick visited classrooms the second week of school for the annual Blessing of the Classrooms. Fr. Peter prayed over each classroom and its students and teachers, who were so happy to have him stop by after morning Mass to visit and continue this wonderful annual tradition. We are blessed at Jesus the Good Shepherd School with wonderful administrative leadership, who pour their time and enthusiasm into our school, church, students, and staff.

Loyola College Prep

Jordan Harris, Loyola College Prep Director of Communications

The 70th Annual Loyola College Prep Style Show & Luncheon

Celebrating 70 years of fashion, music, culture, the 2024 Senior Class of Loyola College Prep will Twist, Rock and Hip Hop their way through the decades at the annual Style Show and Luncheon modeling clothes from local clothiers.

The Loyola Style Show, sponsored by the Loyola Parents’ Association, is chaired this year by Neal Cox, Eloise Graf, and Ashley Smith.

The Style Show has a lasting history at LCP dating back to 1952, a rite of passage for graduating seniors.

OCTOBER 23-27

Loyola College Prep invites middle school students for private tours of Loyola’s campus during Open House week scheduled for October 23-27.

Tours are offered in small groups, and registration is required. To schedule a tour, visit loyolaprep.org/open-house-2023

“We are excited to welcome future Flyers and their parents, and walk them through a typical school day at LCP. Guests will get to engage with current students, alumni, faculty and staff,” said John LeBlanc, Principal. “Loyola offers a different high school experience that is grounded in our Catholic identity with opportunities for students to evolve in academic excellence, faith in action and student involvement.”

In addition to small group tours of the campus during a typical day, students and parents will have the chance to learn about college placement, financial assistance, accommodations, admissions and more.

Loyola College Prep offers a faithbased high school experience grounded in Catholicism, with a focus on growing students in conscience, character and compassion.

Scan this code to register for our fall Open house!

“We are honored to chair the 70th Style Show, and we hope to celebrate the longstanding history this event has not only at Loyola, but also in our community,” said Neal Cox, Chairman. “This year we will showcase the different decades, and we know our seniors are going to have a blast!”

Lunch is provided by Silver Star and attendees can participate in an online auction with trips, jewelry and one-of-a-kind experiences to bid on.

During the show, Loyola seniors will take the stage in groups “modeling” outfits from gracious local stores. In addition, there is always a Senior Walk spotlighting each and every graduate. And as if that were not enough, a time-honored tradition is the Alumni Walk where seniors join their parents and/or grandparents who were graduates of the following institutions; St. John’s, Jesuit, Loyola, Notre Dame, and St. Vincent’s Academy in Shreveport; for a special stroll.

Loyola Style Show and Luncheon

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Bossier Civic Center

Doors open at 11 a.m.

Show begins at 11: 30 a.m.

$50 in advance $55 at the door

Sponsored by the Loyola Parents Association

Tickets available at www.myschoolbucks.com Call 318-226-6290 for more information

Cathedral of St. John Berchmans School

Cassie Key, Director of Development, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Catholic School

IT’S A GREAT TIME TO BE AN SJB CARDINAL!

After the excitement of the summer and our summer camps, we have settled in and found our groove. We have a great team in place, and we are looking forward to the 2023 – 2024 school year. With nine new teachers, a new Director of Technology, and a new Principal, there are many new faces and names around campus. All of this change has brought a fresh perspective and a renewed dedication to our ministry of providing quality education, anchored in our Catholic faith.

One of the new initiatives we have implemented is selecting a theme for the school year, something for us to focus on and rally around. Our theme for the school year is Faith, Family, and Future. We are focusing on our faith, strengthening our families, and building a strong future. With that in mind, we plan to roll out monthly events that encompass our theme – anything from Movie Nights to a Family Rosary. It is our hope that this new theme builds upon our foundation of Kindness is Practiced Here by strengthening our faith and our community, drawing our families into relationship with each other, and planning for a future of stability and growth.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW TEACHERS: From left to right

Front Row - Senora Thelma Acevedo, Sister Pori, Ms. Rebecca Mays, Mrs. Emily McMurry. Back Row - Mr. Palmer Miley, Mrs. Rachel Donatelli, Mrs. Diane Armagost, Mr. Vic Phares, Mr. T.C. Veit. Not Pictured: Mr. Joseph Annibale, Ms. Leta Broom.

Our Lady of Fatima School

Tessa Hoff, Assistant Principal, Our Lady of Fatima School

These words spoken by the Blessed Virgin Mary to the children at Fatima, serve to remind us that we are called to minister to the hurting and the lost. At Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School, we strive to live out the call given to the children at Fatima. A life lived as an offering to God to spread the Gospel of Peace is a blessed life indeed.

In an effort to remind our students of this calling, we recently blessed our new playground areas and named the playground areas in honor of two of the Fatima children. Our playground for our Pre-K through 2nd students is named in honor of Saint Jacinta Marto, the youngest of the Fatima Children. We named the playground for our 3rd through 5th students in honor of Saint Francisco Marto. While the lives of Saint Francisco and Saint Jacinta were short in years, their lives were an example to all of what it means to live a life unto the Lord. It is our prayer and hope that our students will follow their examples of sacrifice and service.

At the beginning of each school year, we take time to hold a blessing for our classrooms and students. The students enjoy starting the year acknowledging the goodness of God in their lives and in their school community. Fr. John Paul and Fr. Tobias visited every classroom and all the common areas of the school to administer the Blessing and to encourage the students to do their best in all their academic endeavors, working unto the Lord. As the Apostle Paul wrote to the Church in Colossae, “Whatever you do, do it wholeheartedly, as if you were doing it for the Lord and not for others, since you know that you will receive from the Lord an inheritance as your reward for you are serving the Lord Christ.” It is our goal to raise up a generation that will commit their lives and their work to the Lord.

“ARE YOU WILLING TO OFFER YOURSELVES TO GOD AND BEAR ALL THE SUFFERINGS HE WILLS TO SEND YOU AS AN ACT OF REPARATION FOR THE CONVERSION OF SINNERS?”

St. Frederick High School

St. Frederick High School’s 2022-23 school year was very successful, with 99% of the graduating class attending college and awarded over $4 million in scholarships (not including TOPS). We are so proud of the Class of 2023 and what they have accomplished, and will continue in their next chapters. Our sights are now on the upcoming school year and how our students will impact our school and the community. Below are just a few events to mark on your calendar as we all gear up for a great school year:

HOMECOMING RAFFLE

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 20

Homecoming Raffle is back again! The Parents’ Association Homecoming Raffle is dedicated to raising funds for campus improvements. Please seek out a Warrior or call the school office to purchase a raffle ticket at 318-323-9636. The raffle winners will be announced on Friday, October 20 as we welcome back eight returning classes and our Warrior Football team takes on the Cardinals at the Chip Luffey Stadium at 7 pm.

FALL OPEN HOUSE

OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 3

St. Frederick High School invites all prospective families for private tours of St. Frederick High School’s campus for our Open House from October 30 - November 3! We are excited to welcome future Warriors and their parents, to walk through a typical school day at SFHS. Prospective families will interact with current students and teachers. St. Frederick High School offers a different high school experience that is grounded in faith, academic excellence and student involvement. In addition to small group tours of the campus during a typical day, students and parents will have the chance to learn about college placement, financial assistance, accommodations, admissions and more.

PROSPECTIVE PARENT MEETING

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7

Mark your calendar for November 7, 2023. Join us for an informational parent session to hear about the great things St. Frederick High School has to offer your family! There will be information about the upcoming registration period, our exciting new International Baccalaureate curriculum, highlights from Warrior athletics, the benefits of a Catholic Education for your children, and much more!

Saint Joseph Catholic School

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

A few days later, our Kindergarten Village, Elementary School and Middle School each adopted one of our three seminarians and committed to caring for them throughout the year, whether by prayer, care package, or letter writing. In one way or another, each of these young men is a little more isolated this year: both Tristan Frisk and Austin Young have moved to St. Meinrad Seminary in Indiana, and Nathan Lirette is now the only seminarian from our diocese attending St. Joseph Seminary in South Louisiana. We are especially excited to have adopted Nathan for this year, as he is a member of the SJS Class of 2017! You can see him pictured here when he was just a young Falcon, but that vocations seed had indeed been planted...

TEACHING FALCONS TO BE THE HANDS AND FEET OF JESUS

From our 7th annual Balloon Rosary to the commissioning of the 2023-24 MiniVinnies to the “adoption” of our seminarians, SJS students are learning to think of and pray for others. We offered our Balloon Rosary this year for pro-life intentions, as we always do, asking Our Lady’s intercession for the conversion of our nation’s capital, for our Holy Father, and for our bishops, priests and religious to boldly preach the Gospel of Life. God gave us a beautiful morning once again, to watch roughly 60 navy and white balloons waft into the partly cloudy sky after meditating on the Glorious Mysteries and recalling the sanctity of human life.

Finally, our third group of MiniVinnies were commissioned to support the efforts of the Society of St.Vincent de Paul for this school year. It was even more memorable this year, as the commissioning took place on the Memorial of St. Vincent de Paul on Wednesday, Sept 27, after our school Mass. We have grown to 70 members this year and the desire these students have to seek ways to love and serve their neighbors is ever growing.

Thanks To Our Recent Donors:

(035)2 Mrs. Rosemary C. Ward $500

(008) Charles & Beverly

SEMINARIAN 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)

(041) Servant of God Fr. Jean Pierre 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 ($1475)

(006) Msgr. J. Carson LaCaze Memorial Burse #2 ($3832.12)

(007) Dr. Carol Christopher Memorial Burse ($1200)

(008) St. Jude Parish Burse ($6618)

(022) Rev. Blane O’Neil, OFM Memorial Burse ($1475)

(023) Msgr. Edmund J. Moore Memorial Burse ($3900)

(024) Rev. Joseph Puthupally Memorial Burse ($1650)

(025) Kathleen Hightower Memorial Burse ($600)

(028) Friends-n-Faith Burse ($600)

(029) Rev. Kenneth Williams Memorial Burse ($200)

(030) Ottis and Anne Krupa Littlejohn Memorial Burse ($6000)

(032) Madeline and Joe Tiller Memorial Burse ($5000)

(034) Joseph B. and Lucille Provenza Cordaro Burse ($6100)

(035) Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward Burse #2 ($6750)

(036)2 R.W. & S.G. Hardy $100

(036)2 Jeffrey Crane $25 (036)2 Leona & Thomas

(036)2 In memory of Robert & Lillian Cobb $200

Completed Burses: (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)

(027) Rev. Richard Lombard Memorial Burse ($10000)

(027)2 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)

(036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse ($10000)

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

(009) St. John Berchmans Knights of Columbus Council 10728 Burse ($1550)

(011) Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #2 ($5000)

(015) Bishop’s Seminarian Burse ($4410)

(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)

(036) Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse #2 ($4375)

(037) Manuel & Catherine Licciardi, and John & Beverly Miller Burse ($5000)

(038) The Malone Family Burse ($250)

(039) St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Knights of Columbus Council 9260 Burse ($250)

(045) Sister Martinette Rivers Memorial Burse ($200)

(046) Domestic Church Burse ($5000)

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

You

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?

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.

Around the Diocese...

THE ULM CATHOLIC CAMPUS MINISTRY HELD ITS 2ND ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT. Proceeds from the tournament will go towards student participation in the Spring Seek Conference that will be held in the Spring of 2024. This tournament was a success featuring a standard 18-hole 4-man scramble including closest to the hole, longest drive, and putting contests. Proceeds will also help fund retreats, student dollar lunches, outreach opportunities, and fellowship events.

On Tuesday, August 15th, the Knights of Peter Claver representatives and Father Duane Trombetta delivered school supplies and vouchers to area schools in need, in the Allendale, Lakeside, Queensborough, and Cherokee Park neighborhoods.The schools were: JS Clark Elementary, Queensborough Elementary School A, Queensborough Elementary School B, and Cherokee Park Elementary School. Then Sunday, August 20, Father Duane, and Deacon Charles presented Evan Lent with school vouchers for Praise Academy.

FEASTS & SOLEMNITIES

OCTOBER 2

The Holy Guardian Angels

OCTOBER 4

Saint Francis of Assisi

OCTOBER 5

Saint Faustina Kowalska, Virgin; USA: Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, Priest

OCTOBER 6

Saint Bruno, Priest; USA: Blessed Marie Rose Durocher, Virgin

OCTOBER 7

Our Lady of the Rosary

OCTOBER 9

Saint Denis, Bishop, and Companions, Martyrs; Saint John Leonardi, Priest

OCTOBER 11

Saint John XXIII, Pope

OCTOBER 14

Saint Callistus I, Pope and Martyr; BVM

OCTOBER 16

Saint Hedwig, Religious; Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin

OCTOBER 17

Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr

OCTOBER 18

Saint Luke, Evangelist

OCTOBER 19

Saints John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs

OCTOBER 20

Saint Paul of the Cross, Priest

OCTOBER 23

Saint John of Capistrano, Priest

OCTOBER 24

Saint Anthony Mary Claret, Bishop

OCTOBER 28

Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles

Ten Tips for Protecting Children and Offering Outreach to Victims/Survivors

1 Sexual abuse is about the victim. Many people are affected by abuse but the individual most impacted is the victim who has suffered a violation of trust that can affect his or her entire life.

2 No one has the right to have access to children.

No one, no matter who they are, has an automatic right to be around children or young people who are in the care of the Church without proper screening and without following the rules.

3 Common sense is not all that common. Dioceses, schools, parishes, and especially families, must educate themselves and others on how to protect children.

4 Child sexual abuse can be prevented. It is critical to build safety barriers around children and young people to keep them from harm—such as protective guardians, codes of conduct, background evaluations, policies and procedures, and safety training programs.

5 The residual effects of having been abused can last a lifetime.

The sense of violation goes deep into a person’s psyche and feelings of anger, shame, hurt and betrayal can build long after the abuse has taken place. Those who have been abused can heal, but if often takes time, therapy, and the support of loved ones.

6 Feeling heard leads toward healing. Relief from hurt and anger often comes when one feels heard, when one’s pain

and concerns are taken seriously, and a victim/survivor’s appropriate sense of rage and indignation are acknowledged.

7 You cannot always predict who will be an abuser.

Experience shows that most abuse is committed by someone who has gained the trust of a victim/survivor and his/ her family.

8

There are behavioral warning signs of child abusers.

Some abusers isolate a potential victim by giving him or her undue attention or lavish gifts, others allow young people to participate in activities which their parents or guardians would not approve, such as watching pornography, drinking alcohol, using drugs, and excessive touching, such as wrestling and tickling.

9 People can be taught to identify grooming behavior.

Grooming behaviors are the actions which abusers take to project the image that they are kind, generous, caring people, while their intent is to lure a minor into an inappropriate relationship. Offenders can be patient and may groom their victim, his or her family, or community for years.

10

Background checks work.

Background checks in churches, schools and other organizations keep predators away from children both because they scare off some predators and because they uncover past actions which should ban an adult from working or volunteering with children.

Diocese of Shreveport Youth Advisory Council 2023-2024

Congratulations to the following youth who have been selected for the 2023-2024 Youth Advisory Council for the Diocese of Shreveport! The Youth Advisory Council is a team of committed young people that assist the Diocesan Director of Youth Ministry in providing the vision, direction, planning, and implementation of youth programs for the Diocese of Shreveport.

Shelby Bartels – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church/St. Joseph Catholic Church (Shreveport)

Ashtyn Bierwirth – Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church

Julie Dolan - St. Jude Catholic Church

Teresa Fields - St. Joseph Catholic Church (Mansfield)

J.P. Frantz – Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church

Jackie Espinoza – Christ the King Catholic Church

Armando Juarez - St. Paschal Catholic Church

Tyler Mitchell – St. Jude Catholic Church

Pricila Mondragon – St. Paschal Catholic Church

Patrick Parrie – St. Joseph Catholic Church (Zwolle)

Maggie Rocconi - Jesus the Good Shepherd

Jackie Romero – Christ the King Catholic Church

Lillie Ryals - St. Jude Catholic Church

Claire Sawyer – Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church

Aiden Woods - St. Jude Catholic Church

upcoming events

OCTOBER 1, 2 - 5:30 PM

GATHER SOUTH @ St. Joseph, Zwolle

Open to all diocesan 6th - 12th grade students. For more information contact your parish office

OCTOBER 14, 2 - 6 PM

Multicultural Family Picnic @ Catholic Center

To reserve your tickets email kalvarez@dioshpt.org

OCTOBER 15, 11 AM

White Mass @ Cathedral of St. John Berchmans

OCTOBER 20 - 22

Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat (English)

To register or for more information please call 318-588-1064 or email rquiroz@dioshpt.org

OCTOBER 21, 5 - 8 PM

St. Joseph School Falcon Fest

Adults are free, children all-access wristbands are $30, to purchase wristbands or learn more visit givebutter.com/FalconFest23

OCTOBER 29, 12 - 3 PM

Mary, Queen of Peace Halloween Carnival

Admission is free, enjoy trunk or treating, a cake walk, face painting, a hayride, and more! Food is available for purchase and all proceeds will benefit the church youth program.

NOVEMBER 9, 11 AM

Loyola College Prep Style Show & Luncheon

Tickets are $50 in advance or $55 at the door. Call 318-2266290 for more information

NOVEMBER 9-12

Women’s ACTS Retreat

To register or for more information visit stjosephchurch.net

NOVEMBER 16-19

Men’s ACTS Retreat

To register or for more information visit stjosephchurch.net

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1ST

Mass: 150th Anniversary of the Death of Fr. Louis Gergaud; St. Matthew Church, Monroe; 10:30 AM; followed by luncheon.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1ST

Prayer Service; Gravesite of Father Louis Gergaud, St. Matthew Cemetery, Monroe; 3:00 PM

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7TH

Mass: Open Diocesan Rosary Congress; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 4:00 PM

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8TH

Mass: Five Priests Commemorative Mass and the 150th Anniversary of the Death of Father Francois Le Vezouet; included in the context of the Mass will be the Opening Session for the Cause of Beatification; Holy Trinity Church, Shreveport; 10:30 AM

Prayer Gathering; Calvary Mound at St. Joseph Cemetery, Shreveport; 12:00 PM

Reception: Parish Hall, Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 1:00 PM

The Angels Gathered Symphony by Kermit Poling; Holy Trinity Church, Shreveport; 5:00 PM

WHERE IS BISHOP MALONE THIS MONTH?

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11TH

Blue Mass; St. Joseph Church, Bastrop; 12:00 PM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12TH

Notre Dame Seminary & St. Joseph Seminary Board of Trustees Meetings; Notre Dame Seminary, New Orleans; 10:30 AM

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15TH

White Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 11:00 AM

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21ST

Holy Trinity Seminary’s Spes Gregis Dinner; Cardinal Ferrell Student Center, Holy Trinity Seminary, Irving, Texas; 6:00 PM

OCTOBER 25TH-27TH

Diocese of Birmingham Principals’ Retreat; Joe Wheeler State Park, Rogersville, Alabama

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: Bishop Malone, Father John Paul Crispin, Father Tobias Obado, and Deacon Bill Goss celebrated Mass for the 45th Anniversary of St. Lawrence Catholic Church of Swartz (1978-2023).