CATHOLIC CONNECTION
Holy Rosary
CATHOLIC CONNECTION
PUBLISHER
Bishop
Francis I. Malone
EDITOR
Kirsten Shrewsberry
EDITORIAL BOARD
CONTRIBUTORS
Karen Dill
Delia Barr
Rev. Fidel Mondragón
Dr. Cheryl White
Karla Alvarez
Peggy Green
Diana Langford
Diocesan Vocations Office
Mike Van Vranken
Carol Gates
Shelby McCarty
Tristan Frisk
Mary Arcement Alexander
Amy Fakhre
Cassandra Key
Clayton Cobb
OCTOBER 2024
Volume 34, Number 3
HOLY ROSARY
Pope Francis’ Prayer Intention For The Month Of October
FOR A SHARED MISSION
We pray that the Church continue to sustain in all ways a Synodal lifestyle, as a sign of co-responsibility, promoting the participation, the communion and the mission shared among priests, religious and lay people.
Cover photo is at Jesus the Good Shepherd Church in Monroe. Photo by Kirsten Shrewsberry, Diocesan Director of PR.
SUBSCRIPTIONS & ADDRESS CHANGES
Blanca Vice bvice@dioshpt.org 318-868-4441
SUBMISSIONS
Kirsten Shrewsberry 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 Coordinator 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.
OCTOBER SECOND COLLECTION
October 19/20 – World Mission Sunday
This Collection supports propagation of the faith worldwide. World Mission Sunday is celebrated in all the local Churches as the feast of catholicity and universal solidarity so Christians the world over will recognize their common responsibility with regard to the evangelization of the world.
Very Rev. Msgr. Matthew T. Long
Dcn. Charles Thomas, OFS
Karla Alvarez
Rev. Kevin Mues
Rosalba Quiroz
Our Lady of the Rosary Fr. Raney Johnson Diocese of Shreveport Priest’s Retreat; Coury Guest House, Subiaco, AR (through Oct 11th)
Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
Bishop Francis I. Malone Grand Opening/ Blessing; CHRISTUS Trinity Podiatry Clinic, Shreveport; 4:00 PM
Fr. Kevin Mues
The Holy Guardian Angels
Msgr. Matthew T. Long Our Lady of Fatima School
70th Anniversary Mass, lunch and school Program; Our Lady of Fatima School, Monroe; 9:30 AM
Saint Denis, Bishop, and Companions, Martyrs; Saint John Leonardi, Priest
Saint Peter Claver, Priest
Fr. Duane Trombetta
Msgr. Rothell Price Saint Francis of Assisi Fr. Gabriel Cisneros Campos
Saint Faustina Kowalska, Virgin; Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, Priest; BVM Fr. Kelby Tingle Falcon Fest @ St. Joseph School; 5:30 PM Fall Festival @ St. Mary of the Pines
EUCHARISTIC ROSARY CONGRESS
Fr. Calistus Barasa Makokha
Saint John XXIII, Pope Fr. Fidel Mondragón
Fr. Jerry Daigle Rosary Rally @ St. Paschal Church, West Monroe; 12 PM DIOCESAN EUCHARISTIC ROSARY CONGRESS. SEE PAGE 9 FOR
Fr. John Paul Crispin St. Vincent’s Academy Class of 1964 60th Anniversary
Mass; St. Vincent’s Chapel, Catholic Center, Shreveport; 10:00 AM
Fr. Charles Ssennyondo White Mass; Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport; 11:00 AM World Mission Sunday Second Collection
Fr. Richard Norsworthy, Fr. Rigoberto Betancurt Cortés Taste of OLBS @ Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament; 10 AM Halloween Carnival @ Mary Queen of Peace
Feasts & Solemnities Priest(s) in the Diocese of Shreveport to pray for daily
Bishop Malone's Calendar Special Events in the Diocese of Shreveport
Saint Callistus I, Pope and Martyr Fr. Keith Garvin
Saint Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church Fr. Do Minh Vu
Fr. Mark Franklin, Fr. Joseph Maddala
Saint John Paul II, Pope Fr. James McLelland, Fr. Karl Daigle
Saint Hedwig, Religious; Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin Fr. Tobias Omondi Obado
Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles Fr. Philip Chacko Theempalangattu, Fr. Joseph Ampatt
Fr. Adrian Fischer, Fr. Patrick Madden
Diocesan Finance Council Meeting; Catholic Center, Shreveport; 12:00 PM
SUGGESTED PRAYER FOR OUR PRIESTS:
Gracious and loving God, we thank you for the gift of our priests. Especially ___________________________________ (insert name(s) here)
Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments.
Saint John of Capistrano, Priest Fr. Mark Watson, Fr. Charles Glorioso
Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr Fr. Michael Thang’wa Catholicism 101 Foundations of Faith @ Jesus the Good Shepherd; 5:30 PM
Saint Anthony Mary Claret, Bishop Fr. Timothy Hurd, Fr. Peter Mangum
Saint Luke, Evangelist Fr. Peter Romanus Mallya Rachel's Vineyard Retreat (through Oct 20th)
Saints John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs Fr. Jean Bosco Uwamungu World Mission Sunday Second Collection
Fr. Joseph Martina, Fr. James Moran
Fr. James Dominic Thekkemury, Fr. LaVerne “Pike” Thomas
Fr. Philip Michiels, Msgr. Earl Provenza All deceased priests of the Diocese of Shreveport
FOR MORE EVENTS
CHECK OUT THE AROUND THE DIOCESE SECTION ON PAGE 32
Help our priests to be strong in their vocation. Set their souls on fire with love for your people.
Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.
Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom.
Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel.
Allow them to experience joy in their ministry.
Help them to become instruments of your divine grace.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest. Amen.
Fr. Nicholas Duncan
My Family, My House, and the Rosary
Fr. Fidel Mondragón reflects on how praying the rosary has shaped his life.
16
The Rosary: A Pathway to Peace
Guest writer Diana Langford shares how the rosary can be a tool for finding peace and growth.
FROM THE EDITOR
"CALL YOUR MOM!" I saw that phrase printed on a pillow in the store recently. I assume it was for college dorms: a cheeky way to encourage students leaving home to stay in touch. I couldn't help but laugh; as a grown adult with kids of my own, I still call my mom all the time. When I feel overwhelmed or particularly stuck, I know I can call my mom, and even if she can't solve my problem, it helps to talk it out with her.
My mom took a business trip overseas recently, and due to cell service and time zones, I was unable to connect with her for our usual calls. Frustrated that I didn't have my usual outlet to help tackle my latest problem, I looked around for another solution. I spotted my rosary and realized I could still call my mom, just not my earthly mom. Trying not to be too disappointed that my mom couldn't give me an empathetic ear and a helpful suggestion, I decided to pray a Rosary. I hoped to get out of my head so I could more clearly see God's plan in the mundane of my daily struggles. By the second decade, as I meditated on the Sorrowful mysteries, I felt my problems begin to shrink. By the Hail, Holy Queen, I felt a peace in my heart, knowing my Heavenly Mother would bring my prayers and worries to her beloved Son and intercede on my behalf. A week or so later, my mom returned home, and she joked and asked how I had survived without our calls. I laughed and told her, "I just called my mom!"
Although my mom was busy and unable to take my calls, it has always been such a comfort to know that I can present my prayers to Christ with the Blessed Virgin Mary's help through the Rosary. Next time you feel lost or need a listening ear, I encourage you to call your mom - she's always ready to offer her intercession for you, her beloved child.
From the Bishop
FOR ALMOST FIVE YEARS, I HAVE HAD A STANDING APPOINTMENT EVERY SUNDAY EVENING AT 7 P.M. WITH ABOUT 30 FAMILY MEMBERS: SIBLINGS, COUSINS, A FEW NIECES AND NEPHEWS. The agenda is very simple—we pray the Rosary, via a Zoom call. We started this practice soon after I was ordained a bishop at a good friend’s suggestion. On the preceding Wednesday, my younger brother sends to all participants a sheet detailing which Mystery of the Rosary we will pray and what part each of us will have in it. He is gracious enough to conclude each Sunday night’s prayers with a word and blessing from me. I have had many wonderful and grace-filled experiences as a priest and a bishop, but nothing compares with the blessings our family has received these almost-five years through the Sunday night Rosary.
The thirty-some participants are steady, and we all agree it has made a difference in our lives as individuals and as family members. My phone’s alarm signals me at 6:20 p.m. to get ready, when 7 p.m. rolls around my brother “calls us to prayer,” then we run down who is leading each part. He then asks for special prayers and intentions that we can all keep in mind as we pray. These intentions often include someone having a particular need for intercession, someone ill or troubled, or someone we know who needs us to pray for them. Once we’ve completed the Rosary, we comment on birthdays, anniversaries, special events, etc. It’s our way of keeping up with each other’s life happenings but, more importantly, it keeps us in touch with one another. I know that we all feel the exchange of prayers and graces that come through our family praying together.
A striking note about our weekly family Rosary is that getting it off the ground was so simple, and its lack of complications has kept it smooth and just a regular part of each week. More than that, it resulted in follow-up phone calls from some of us to others of us expressing how the Rosary impacted them that week or sharing words of gratitude for prayers answered.
For my immediate family, a blessing that stands out is our becoming more and more aware of how much our Blessed Mother hears us when we pray, and we can feel her intercession when we do. I often think that because we lost our mother when we were so young, the Blessed Mother continues to watch over us as only a good mother could do and takes our prayers to Her Son on our behalf.
As we head into the month of October and our special remembrance of Mary, our Mother, might I suggest that you and your family members, however small in number, adopt the practice of praying together. I find it only takes 25 minutes each Sunday night—but its effects last until the next week. Why not give it a try? It is time well-spent and will bring to you a grace from the Lord through His mother that we find often gives us what we need at the most important times of our lives. Mary, our Mother, pray for us!
por el obispo
DESDE HACE CASI CINCO AÑOS, TENGO UNA CITA FIJA TODOS LOS DOMINGOS A LAS 7 DE LA TARDE CON UNOS 30 MIEMBROS DE MI FAMILIA: HERMANOS, PRIMOS, ALGUNAS SOBRINAS Y SOBRINOS. El esquema es muy sencillo: rezamos el rosario a través de una llamada de Zoom. Comenzamos esta práctica poco después de que me ordenaran obispo, por sugerencia de un buen amigo. El miércoles siguiente, mi hermano menor envió a todos los participantes una hoja en la que se detallaba el misterio del Rosario que íbamos a rezar y el papel que cada uno iba a desempeñar en él. Tiene la gentileza de concluir las oraciones de cada domingo por la noche con unas palabras y una bendición de mi parte. He tenido muchas experiencias maravillosas y llenas de gracia como sacerdote y obispo, pero nada se compara con las bendiciones que nuestra familia ha recibido estos casi cinco años a través del Rosario de los domingos por la noche.
Los treinta y tantos participantes son constantes, y todos estamos de acuerdo en que ha marcado una diferencia en nuestras vidas como individuos y como miembros de una familia. La alarma de mi teléfono me avisa a las 6:20 p.m. para que me prepare; cuando llegan las 7:00 p.m., mi hermano «nos llama a la oración», y luego hacemos un recuento de quién dirige cada parte. Luego nos pide oraciones e intenciones especiales que todos podemos tener en mente mientras rezamos. Estas intenciones suelen incluir a alguien que tiene una necesidad particular de intercesión, alguien enfermo o con problemas, o alguien que sabemos que necesita que recemos por él. Una vez terminado el Rosario, mencionamos cumpleaños, aniversarios, acontecimientos especiales, etc. Es nuestra manera de estar al día de los sucesos de la vida de los demás pero, lo que es más importante, nos mantiene en contacto unos con otros. Sé que todos sentimos el intercambio de oraciones y gracias que se produce cuando nuestra familia reza unida.
Una observación sorprendente sobre nuestro Rosario familiar semanal es que su comienzo fue tan sencillo, y su falta de complicaciones lo ha mantenido sin problemas y como una parte habitual de cada semana. Más que eso, resultó en llamadas telefónicas de seguimiento de algunos de nosotros a otros expresando cómo el Rosario les impactó esa semana o compartiendo palabras de gratitud por las oraciones respondidas.
Para mi familia inmediata, una bendición que destaca es que cada vez somos más conscientes de cuánto nos escucha nuestra Santísima Madre cuando rezamos, y podemos sentir su intercesión cuando lo hacemos. A menudo pienso que, como perdimos a nuestra madre cuando éramos tan pequeños, la Virgen sigue velando por nosotros como sólo una buena madre podría hacerlo y lleva nuestras oraciones a su Hijo en nuestro nombre.
A medida que nos acercamos al mes de octubre y a nuestro especial recuerdo de María, nuestra Madre, me permito sugerir que ustedes y los miembros de su familia, aunque sean pocos, adopten la práctica de rezar juntos. A nosotros sólo nos lleva 25 minutos cada domingo por la noche, pero sus efectos duran hasta la semana siguiente. ¿Por qué no lo intentas? Es un tiempo bien empleado y les traerá una gracia del Señor a través de Su Madre, que a menudo nos da lo que necesitamos en los momentos más importantes de nuestras vidas. María, Madre nuestra, ruega por nosotros.
Para obtener más información sobre las oportunidades del Ministerio Multicultural en la Diócesis de Shreveport y para encontrar nuestros horarios y lugares de misa en español, por favor escanee el código aquí.
BEADS OF HOPE
WHEN I LEFT THE TINY HOSPITAL CHAPEL, I SPOTTED MY FRIEND ELLEN. “What are you doing here?” she exclaimed with a hug.
I explained we’d arrived at 5:30 that morning for my husband, Joe, to have a heart ablation procedure—risky business! Noon was approaching, and I still hadn’t heard anything. Having a mind filled with “what if’s,” I decided to attend the 11:00 Mass.
“I’ll wait with you!” Ellen said. Walking down the hall to the family waiting room, we saw my sister approach and together entered the crowded waiting space to find only two empty chairs remaining.
“No problem,” our friend assured us. “You two take the chairs. I’ll sit on the floor!” She plopped at our feet and started digging through her purse. “Why don’t we say the Rosary while we’re waiting?” Immediately, I recalled Joe sharing years ago that his grandmother Maggie taught him this prayer, and I could picture her joining our circle.
For the next few minutes, we three softly whispered the age-old prayers. We lifted up Joe and his medical team as we meditated on the Sorrowful Mysteries. With the rhythmic recitation of the Hail Mary, the hospital noise faded into the distance. The thought of our Blessed Mother interceding for Joe slowed my pulse and evaporated my fears. Each bead on the strand led me closer to a comforting presence, her maternal love. I could feel her saying, “It’s going to be OK,” the same words my earthly mother said when I called out to her in the dark of night, fearing the boogey man lurking under my bed.
How often do I forget this powerful prayer as I plow my way through life’s difficulties, depending instead on my own strength and ideas rather than seeking the intercession Our Lady of Perpetual Help is always waiting to provide?
And for me, praying the Rosary with others heightens the experience’s meaning. I can visualize multitudes of loved sinners like myself all over the world offering up this prayer continuously as the world turns. Friends have shared with me the many resources available to pray the Rosary with others. We can join Mother Angelica on EWTN or Bishop Barron on the Word on Fire website. Sometimes, I rise early and pray with Kitty Cleveland on YouTube. And everyone is welcome at my parish, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, for the Rosary Group at 5:30 on Tuesday evenings in our sanctuary.
Throughout the day, we can offer up a decade when facing challenging situations and needing to feel the support of our most powerful Intercessor. If I leave my beads at home, I can always use my fingers! A fellow parishioner recently shared that she gets on a Zoom call each morning with her family members, who are spread all over the map, to stay connected by praying the Rosary together. Another friend prays with her rosary on the treadmill. The possibilities for using this gift are endless!
So, back to that waiting room. We finished our last “Amen!” with many onlookers staring at us curiously. And just like that! My phone dinged the good news: Joe made it through the procedure successfully and was being transferred to a room. I thanked Jesus, Grandma Maggie, and Our Lady of Prompt Succor as I headed for the door. Hail Mary, full of grace!
Karen Dill is a spiritual director for the Diocese of Shreveport and a parishioner at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
The Impact Of Praying The Rosary In The Diocese Of Shreveport
CHALLENGED AGAIN BY BISHOP MALONE TO DAILY PRAY THE ROSARY DURING MAY, WITH SPECIAL INTENTIONS FOR OUR DIOCESE, OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY EXCEEDED THE 10,000 ROSARIES GOAL! It was a big ask as last May we logged just over 4,000 Rosaries. But our diocesan parishioners went to their knees, and together prayed 11,168 Rosaries in May 2024!
I was completely amazed with the outpouring of prayer from everyone across the diocese. It was wonderful, inspiring, to know that we all prayed together, lifting up our diocesan community. The power of prayer is real, and the Holy Spirit is working among us. One intention was “For families to cultivate the planting of the spirit of vocations in their children through prayer and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament,” and it was announced on June 1 that we have TWO new seminarians! That number increased again in August when we added our SIXTH seminarian in formation for the Diocese of Shreveport. Talk about answered prayers!!
A personal fruit grew from answering the May Rosary challenge. As a Catholic Center staff, we committed to praying the Rosary daily, faithfully meeting in the St. Vincent's Chapel at 3:00 p.m. to pray in community. One intention resonated, “For a greater awareness and understanding of the Blessed Mother’s role in our lives of faith through an increase in devotion to her.” I have always prayed the Rosary, but struggled to offer a daily one. As May concluded, I found myself reflecting more intently on the Blessed Mother’s role in my life and was drawn to continue praying the Rosary daily. Co-workers also grew in devotion to this prayer. Praise God!
A special thanks is given to Bishop Malone and his family. Bishop gathers his family members from across the country in a videoconference call to pray the Rosary every Sunday evening. They logged over 150 rosaries!
Upcoming Rosary News:
In the spirit of the Eucharistic Revival’s third year, “Missionary Sending,” the Diocese of Shreveport will again participate in a Diocesan Eucharistic Rosary Congress. For those unfamiliar with this Congress, let me briefly explain.
The Eucharistic Rosary Congress’ mission is to bring every soul to believe in and love deeply Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, through Mary and the Rosary. Thus, it is celebrated annually for seven days during the first week of October, the month of the Rosary. Throughout this month, we emphasize continuous Eucharistic Adoration and praying the Rosary before Him in the Blessed Sacrament out loud every hour of the day and night
During the Congress (Oct. 5-11 in 2024), we ensure this devotion occurs in our diocese throughout the days and nights of that first week. To this end, we will have a Traveling Eucharistic Rosary Congress, in which all parishes are encouraged to embrace a 12-24hour period during October’s first week when they ensure continuous Adoration, with the Rosary prayed out loud at the top of every hour. We will provide a schedule for the entire week with each parish’s chosen times.
This Eucharistic Rosary Congress will be primarily a laity-led endeavor. Please prayerfully consider offering your “YES!” to our pastors when they ask you to lead or participate. Your “YES,” offered in union with our Blessed Mother’s intercession will help bring Jesus, truly present in the Eucharist, to our faith community.
For more information on the Diocesan Eucharistic Rosary Congress, go to: rosarycongressusa.org
Please feel free to contact: Delia Barr at 318-219-7302 or dbarr@dioshpt.org
Delia Barr is Director of Faith Formation for the Diocese of Shreveport.
MY FAMILY, MY HOUSE, AND THE ROSARY
I AM CERTAIN THAT PRAYING THE ROSARY HAS BEEN A PART OF MY LIFE SINCE I WAS IN MY MOTHER'S WOMB. For as long as I can recall, I clearly remember that, in my house, the whole family prayed the Rosary every night. My mother primarily took the initiative, teaching us the prayer. I remember that my dad joined almost every time after we already started. My sisters and brothers didn't always want to pray, especially when we were watching a TV novella; but, at that precise moment, my mother thought we had to pray. It had to be done, yes or yes. Sometimes I took the initiative to pray the Rosary, my sisters who wanted to continue watching the television got angry with me, so sometimes they mocked me and called me names.
All of us children learned to pray the Rosary very well, and some of us memorized it. At six years old, I already prayed the Rosary by heart with the three original mysteries: Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious.
Years later, I learned the Luminous mysteries,
During May and October, most neighbors met in the afternoon under a big tree
and prayed the Rosary. We sang praises to the Virgin Mary, and the children offered flowers to Our Lady. When a neighbor dies in my community, there is a tradition of praying a Rosary novena for the person's soul. With great devotion, I accompanied my mother, and sometimes I led, although at first I was a nervous to be leading the Rosary for the congregation.
Away From Home, My Youth And The Rosary
When I was 15 years old, I left my home and small community to study high school in the town of Luvianos, where I lived with an aunt. She was very attentive and made me feel very welcome and confident in her house. However, from that time on when I was away from my house, from my mother, I stopped praying the Rosary daily. Yes, I still prayed it, but not every day.
United States And The Rosary Arriving in this country on February 11, 1997, I lived with my cousins and her family, and had the same prayer life. The Rosary was no longer prayed every day, instead very occasionally. Then I moved to live with my brother and his wife, and my parents got visas to visit us for up to a month, three times a year. Then finally, yes, I was with my mother every day to pray the Rosary.
Priestly Formation And The Rosary
I entered seminary formation on August 21, 2006, and spent a year there in Miami, Florida. Among all the daily activities, the community Rosary was very important. When we did not pray it in community, I prayed it alone, daily again.
The most sacred act for me is the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, being able to receive Jesus’ Body and Blood and be in that communion with Him. Worshipping Him in the Eucharist is the greatest time in my life. After that, for me, the greatest action is praying the Rosary. Through the intercession of Mary, Mother of God and our Mother, I live my earthly life striving to do God’s will, and one day I hope to live eternally in heaven.
MI FAMILIA, MI CASA Y EL ROSARIO
ESTOY SEGURO DE QUE EL REZO DEL ROSARIO HA SIDO PARTE DE MI VIDA DESDE QUE ESTABA EN EL VIENTRE DE MI MADRE. Recuerdo claramente que desde que tengo uso de razón en mi casa, toda la familia, cada noche se rezaba el Rosario. Era mi mama quien mayormente tomaba la iniciativa llevándonos todos a rezar. Mis hermanas y hermanos no siempre queríamos rezar, especialmente cuando estábamos viendo una novela. Pero, a mi mama en ese preciso momento que veíamos la novela se le ponía que teníamos que rezar. Había que hacerlo, sí o sí. Recuerdo que mi papa, llegaba casi siempre que ya habíamos empezado.
Todos, hermanos y hermanos aprendimos muy bien a rezar el Rosario, y algunos de nosotros lo memorizamos. Yo tenía seis años y ya rezaba el rosario de memoria, los tres misterios que se tenían hasta entonces: Gozosos, Dolorosos y Gloriosos. Años después aprendí también los misterios luminosos.
Algunas veces era yo quien tomaba la iniciativa para rezar el Rosario, Eso me causaba problemas con mis hermanas que querían seguir viendo la televisión. Desquitaban su enojo poniéndome apodos y trataban de burlarse de mí.
En los meses de mayo y octubre, la mayoría de los vecinos nos reuníamos por las tardes y rezábamos el Rosario. Se cantaban alabanzas a la Virgen María y nosotros los niños ofrecíamos flores a la Virgen. También cuando algún vecino fallecía, en mi comunidad hay la tradición de hacer una novena de rosarios por el alma de la persona. Con mucha devoción yo acompañaba a mi mama, y en algunas ocasiones era yo, aunque al principio me ponía un poco nerviosos quien dirigía el rosario.
Fuera De Casa, Mi Juventud Y El Rosario
Dejé mi casa, y mi pequeña comunidad cuando tenía 15 años y me fui a estudiar la preparatoria al pueblo. Vivía con una tía, ella muy atenta, me sentí muy bienvenido y con mucha confianza en su casa. Pero desde ese tiempo ya fuera de mi casa, de mi mama, fui dejando de rezar el rosario, si lo rezaba, pero no todos los días.
Trabajo, Estados Unidos Y El Rosario
Llegue a este País el 11 de febrero de 1997. Estuve viviendo en la casa de una de mis primas y su familia. Y los mismo, el Rosario ya no era de todos los días, si lo rezaba, pero muy de vez en cuando.
Después me cambie a vivir a la casa de mi hermano y su esposa. Mi papa y mi mama obtuvieron su visa y venían a visitarnos hasta tres veces al año y se quedaban hasta un mes con nosotros. Ahí sí, con mi mama todos los días a rezar el rosario.
Seminario, Sacerdocio Y El Rosario
Entré al Seminario en agosto 21 de 2006. Estuve un ano en Miami Florida, y dentro de todas las actividades diarias, el rosario comunitario era parte muy importante todos los días, y cuando no lo hacíamos en comunidad, rezaba yo solo y desde entonces procuro hacerlo todos los días.
Lo más sagrado para mi es la Santa Eucaristía, el poder recibirla y estar en esa comunión con Dios. Adorar su cuerpo y su sangre sacramentalmente. Después, para mi lo mas grande es el rezo del Rosario. A través de la Virgen María, Madre de Dios y Madre nuestra, vivir con si Hijo aquí en la tierra y al final eternamente en el cielo.
Fr. Fidel Mondragón is pastor at Christ the King Parish in Bossier City.
El padre Fidel Mondragón es párroco en la parroquia de Cristo Rey en Bossier City.
OUR SERVANTS OF GOD: Shreveport Martyrs Update
Canonization Cause and EWTN Film Premiere!
WORK CONTINUES TOWARD THE CAUSE OF BEATIFICATION AND CANONIZATION FOR THE FIVE SHREVEPORT MARTYRS, AS INFORMATION GATHERING CONTINUES FOR THE FINAL DOCUMENTATION THAT WILL BE SENT TO THE DICASTERY FOR THE CAUSES OF SAINTS IN ROME. Father Peter Mangum, Episcopal Delegate for their Cause, gathered testimony from a wide variety of witnesses, and the Historical Commission compiled and organized the biographical narrative and supporting files on which the next phase of the beatification and canonization process is based. The Historical Commission report is a comprehensive file of all information related to the Shreveport Martyrs’ lives and sanctity, with an estimated 5,000 pages. This stage of the process required the assembly of all known vital records: biographical information from primary letters and other documents, potentially relevant public records and newspaper articles, and all theological writings attributed to any of these Servants of God.
The report reflects about eight years of extensive research in numerous archives. Once all appropriate documentation is gathered, a formal ceremony will conclude the process’ diocesan phase: the hand delivery of all documents gathered, in triplicate, to the appropriate office in Rome, thus beginning the “Roman phase.” The hoped-for outcome is that one or more (ideally all) of the five priests will be declared “venerable.”
Fortuitously, the original archival research culminated in a forthcoming third book from The History Press of Charleston, South Carolina, Shreveport Martyr Father Jean Pierre: Fearful Steps Strengthened by Hope. Scheduled for an early 2025 release, it contains edited original letters between Father Pierre and Bishop Auguste Martin and chronicles Father Pierre’s life, drawn in part from other primary sources. After building the Church of the Holy Apostles of St. Peter and St. Paul at Bayou Pierre (now Carmel, Louisiana), Father Pierre became the first pastor of Holy Trinity in Shreveport, where he ministered until his self-sacrificial death through yellow fever on September 16, 1873.
And from their lives, an award winning movie –widely available soon! The internationally acclaimed documentary on their lives, The Five Priests, was recently acquired by EWTN for airing on their global network, who scheduled its premiere on October 8, the death anniversary of the last priest to die, Father Francois Le Vezouet. EWTN will then make the film available on their free streaming platform, as well as other free public networks and streaming sites. The Five Priests has been recognized by over three dozen international film festivals: it took the top award at the Cannes World Film Festival for independent filmmakers, the New York Film Awards, the Europe Film Festival, the Christian Film Festival, and many others.
Now that the film is available in the public domain it will have a global reach. We can't wait to see how the heroic story of the Shreveport Martyrs can be known and inspire a much wider audience – around the world!
Cheryl White, Ph.D. is a Professor of History at Louisiana State University, Shreveport.
Yellow Beads
IT WAS FEBRUARY 2021 AS I PREPARED TO EMBARK ON THE TRIP THAT CHANGED MY LIFE FOR THE BETTER. With the panedemic restrictions barely lifted, I planned my first solo trip to a country I had never visited. Before stepping on any plane, however, I read countless rules and guidelines for the airlines and destination country, Peru. Nervous in every way possible, I just wanted to make it all the way to my destination. Like many people at the time, my heart was restless, and I sought rest in something but did not know what.
I quit my job to go to Peru months earlier, but the trip fell through at the last minute. With barely any money, I prayed: Lord, if You’re calling me to Peru, make it happen with the money I have. Which is exactly what happened! Why was Peru so important and why did I need to go? That searching I mentioned earlier, searching for purpose. Then, I received an invitation to live with La Familia de Jesus, the Family of Jesus, for a couple weeks to experience their life in prayer and in community. Their missionary order in the heart of Peru’s Amazon jungle, seeks to help with the inner healing of families and marriages.
This isn't a story about despair, this is a story about how Mary interceeded on my behalf - let me tell you how Mother Mary helped me through the impossible! To fly into and out of Peru required both an authorized negative COVID-19 test and the wearing, while flying, of two different masks, a regular mask and the a face shield. But I could not find a face shield anywhere. Planning to buy one in my connecting airport, I arrived at the front counter and presented the required documentation. Hearing, “You cannot fly, we do not accept this type of documentation,” from the ticket agent, my heart sank. Defeat and fear overcame me and all I could do was reach into my pocket and hug my travel rosary with my hand. I was angry and afraid but, clutching my rosary even harder, I asked whether she could do anything. “Let me talk to my manager, but I doubt anything can be done,” she answered. As soon as she turned around, I started praying Hail Mary’s. Between each prayer I talked to the Blessed Virgin Mary, telling her how I needed to take this trip, how I knew Jesus had something prepared for me, and how I needed her help to get on the plane. After six or seven Hail Mary’s, the ticket agent returned and said, “You will be allowed to fly with us, I reread the paperwork and this is the correct document.” I was SO happy, I almost cried!
Unfortunately, the challenge was not over. She asked to see my two masks. I explained that I could not find a face shield anywhere. “I am sorry you cannot fly with us if you do not have the face shield,” she said, even after I argued that the U.S. did not require it. Clutching my rosary inside my pocket throughout this, I asked once more, “Is there anything you can do? Do you have any of these face shields by chance?” She assured me they had distributed all their face shields earlier that day, but would check the back. Again praying Hail Mary’s and again explaining the situation to Mother Mary with each prayer, I asked her to intercede on my behalf. The ticket agent finally returned, and in her hands was an unopened package of face shields! “I was sure we did not have any left. You are very lucky! I especially did not expect to find an unopened package. Here you go,” she said. Reaching into my pocket, I hugged my rosary with my hand, thanked Mary, and cried the whole way through security.
For the return trip, as I was at the airport in Lima to leave for the U.S., I handed my negative COVID-19 test verification to the ticket agent, but heard her say, “You will not be flying out of Lima today.” Immediately thinking “not again!” my heart sank and panic set in. I had only $30 to my name – not enough for a hotel and extra flights. My hand went back into my pocket and held that rosary as I started to pray. Peru required you to remain 14 days after you enter the country, and I was a few hours short. I asked the agent if there was anything she could do, and as she entered data on the computer, I prayed a few Hail Mary’s. Finally, she looked my way, asked me to come close, and whispered, “You can go ahead and go through security, but don’t say anything. You are only a couple of hours from completing your 14 days.” I smiled at her, thanked her, and walked away thanking Mother Mary for once again opening the doors and leading the way!
Everywhere I travel, I keep that yellow rosary in my right pocket. It has become my favorite rosary, the one I always bring to airports and while traveling. The Blessed Virgin Mary has responded many other times as soon as I asked for help, especially while traveling. I encourage you to have a travel rosary, too, and keep it in easy reach. Mother Mary is always ready to listen to her children, regardless of where we are, and to offer peace when chaos invades our hearts and minds.
Karla Alvarez is the Director of Multicultural Ministry for the Diocese of Shreveport.
Bolitas Amarillas
ES FEBRERO DE 2021 Y ME ESTOY PREPARANDO PARA EMBARCARME EN EL VIAJE QUE HA CAMBIADO MI VIDA PARA MEJOR. Las restricciones por covid estaban levantándose apenas, y decidí hacer mi primer viaje sola a un país que nunca había visitado. Antes de subirme a cualquier avión, recuerdo haber leído incontables reglas y requisitos para las aerolíneas y para el país al que iba a visitar. Estaba nerviosa en todos los sentidos posibles porque quería llegar a mi destino. El covid dejó una cicatriz en cada persona, y descubrir cómo vivir sin miedo nuevamente era el nuevo desafío de todos. Al igual que muchos después del covid, yo estaba buscando algo. Mi corazón estaba inquieto y buscaba encontrar descanso en algo, pero no sabía en qué. Estaba entre trabajos; no sabía qué quería hacer con mi vida y me encontré entrevistándome para un trabajo como recepcionista, lo cual en ese momento sentía que era lo mejor que iba a conseguir en mi carrera. Meses antes había dejado mi trabajo porque había planeado ir a Perú, pero se canceló en el último minuto. Apenas tenía dinero y le había pedido al Señor que, si Él me llamaba a ir a Perú, que hiciera que sucediera con el dinero que tenía. Y eso es exactamente lo que pasó. ¿Por qué era tan importante Perú y por qué necesitaba ir? Estaba en un momento de mi vida en el que me encontraba buscando propósito. Recibí una invitación para pasar un par de semanas con La Familia de Jesús, para ver cómo vivían su vida en oración y dentro de la comunidad. La Familia de Jesús es una orden misionera en el corazón de la selva amazónica en Perú que ayuda con la sanación interior de familias y matrimonios.
Entonces, ¿cómo se relaciona el rosario con esta historia? Permíteme contarte cómo Mamita María me ayudó en lo imposible. Para volar dentro y fuera del país, uno de los requisitos era llevar un documento autorizado que indicara que mi prueba de covid era negativa. Otro requisito del país peruano era que debíamos volar con dos tipos diferentes de mascarillas: la mascarilla que va sobre la boca y la nariz y el protector facial. No podía encontrar un protector facial en ningún lado. Mi plan era llegar a Fort Lauderdale y comprar uno, ya que no era requerido para volar dentro de los EE.UU. Recuerdo haber llegado al mostrador y entregarles el documento que verificaba mis resultados negativos de la prueba. Las palabras “no puedes volar, no aceptamos este tipo de documentación” salieron de la boca del agente de boletos. Mi corazón se hundió. La sensación de derrota y miedo me invadió y lo único que pude hacer fue meter la mano en mi bolsillo y abrazar mi rosario de viaje, mi rosario amarrillo. La miré y le dije: “eso es imposible, los requisitos en línea mencionan que este es el documento correcto que las aerolíneas requieren para viajar a cualquier lugar”. Ella dijo: “lo siento, no puedes viajar, empieza a llamar a la persona que te acaba de dejar para que vuelva a recogerte”. Estaba enojada y asustada, y me aferré aún más a mi rosario. Le pregunté si había algo que pudiera hacer y ella dijo: “déjame hablar con mi gerente, pero dudo que se pueda hacer algo”. Tan pronto
como se dio la vuelta y se fue, empecé a rezar Avemarías. Recuerdo haber hablado con Mamita María entre cada oración y decirle cuánto necesitaba hacer este viaje, cómo sabía que Jesús tenía algo preparado para mí y que necesitaba su ayuda para subir al avión. Recité unas seis o siete Avemarías y vi la agente de boletos regresar y decir: “te dejaremos volar con nosotros, volví a leer el documento y vi la letra pequeña, y este es el documento correcto”. Estaba TAN feliz que casi lloro. Desafortunadamente, no había terminado el susto. Ella pidió ver mis dos mascarillas. Le dije que no podía encontrar un protector facial en ningún lado y que planeaba comprarlo en Fort Lauderdale. Ella dijo: “Lo siento, no puedes volar con nosotros si no tienes el protector facial”. Intenté argumentar con ella sobre que en EE.UU. no se requería, pero ella no cedió. Simplemente me dijo que esta vez no podía volar y que regresara a casa. Durante todo este tiempo, me aferraba a mi rosario dentro de mi bolsillo. Le pregunté una vez más: “¿hay algo que puedas hacer? ¿Tienes alguno de estos protectores faciales por casualidad?” Ella me aseguró que habían dado todos sus protectores faciales más temprano ese día y que dudaba que tuviera alguno, pero que iría a revisar en la bodega. La vi darse la vuelta y salir, y comencé a rezar Avemarías, y nuevamente con cada oración le explicaba la situación a Mamita María y le decía que necesitaba un protector facial y si podía hacer un milagro. La agente de boletos finalmente regresó y, en sus manos, tenía un paquete sin abrir de protectores faciales. Ella dijo: “Estaba segura de que no teníamos ninguno, tienes mucha suerte, no esperaba encontrar ninguno y especialmente no esperaba encontrar un paquete sin abrir. Aquí tienes y corre a tu puerta”. Metí la mano en mi bolsillo y abracé mi rosario con la mano, agradecí a Mamita María y lloré un poco en mi camino hacia seguridad.
Había un requisito en Perú que si entrabas al país, debías quedarte 14 días, no podías salir antes. Era hora de regresar a los EE.UU. y estaba en el aeropuerto en Lima
lista para irme. Estoy en el mostrador y le entrego al agente de boletos mi verificación de prueba negativa de covid cuando escucho las siguientes palabras: “no volarás desde Lima hoy”. Inmediatamente pensé ‘no otra vez’ y sentí cómo mi corazón se hundía. Entré en pánico ya que solo tenía $30 a mi nombre y eso no sería suficiente para cubrir un hotel y comprar vuelos adicionales. Inmediatamente mi mano fue a mi bolsillo y se aferró a mi rosario, y comencé a rezar. Me llevaron a una parte diferente del aeropuerto y me dijeron que no podía volar porque estaba a unas pocas horas de cumplir el requisito de estar en Perú durante 14 días. Le pregunté si había algo que pudiera hacer. Mientras esperaba a que terminara de ingresar los datos en la computadora, recé unas Avemarías mas y luego ella miró hacia mi dirección y me pidió que me acercara. Ella susurró: “puedes pasar por seguridad pero no digas nada. Solo estás a un par de horas de completar tus 14 días.” Le sonreí y le agradecí. Me alejé y agradecí a Mamita María por abrir nuevamente las puertas y guiar el camino.
Cada vez que viajo, siempre mantengo mi rosario amarillo en mi bolsillo derecho. Este se ha convertido en mi rosario favorito, y siempre rezo unas Avemarías en cualquier aeropuerto o dondequiera que esté viajando. Hay más historias sobre cómo Mamita María ha respondido tan pronto como pido ayuda, especialmente durante mis viajes. Te animo a que tengas un rosario de viaje y lo mantengas a mano. Mamita María siempre está lista para escuchar a sus hijos, sin importar dónde te encuentres, y para ofrecer paz cuando el caos invade nuestro corazón y mente.
Karla Alvarez es el Directora del Ministerio Multicultural de la Diócesis de Shreveport.
My Personal Experience With Praying The Rosary
LIKE MANY CRADLE CATHOLICS, I GREW UP PRAYING THE ROSARY, WHICH WAS EMPHASIZED BY BOTH MY GRANDMOTHER AND MOTHER, ALONG WITH LOVE FOR OUR BLESSED MOTHER. I am so blessed to have many special memories through experiencing love for the Rosary!
As a small child, I remembering watching my mother pray the Rosary daily with beautiful, shiny beads. Each week, she and I visited our neighbor Mrs. Fulco and shared a Rosary with other ladies, though I admit being more excited for the spaghetti and meatballs served there. I vividly recall my first rosary as a young child. Every Sunday after Mass in the back of St. Theresa Catholic Church, they rolled out this beautiful glass case that displayed prayer cards and rosaries. I saw a pink rosary and knew I must have it. Knowing my mother planned to buy one that Sunday, I could barely contain myself during Mass – I was going to receive my very own rosary! Afterward, I brought that rosary with my missal to every Mass. Since my mother passed away, at a young age, I have also cherished her beautiful, shiny rosary.
I feel so blessed for being exposed so early to the important traditions that made me the Catholic I am today. My love for the Rosary grows stronger with each year that passes, in part because praying the Rosary and praying for the intercession of our Blessed Mother lifts me and have brought me out of difficult times. In that prayer, I feel our Blessed Mother’s presence, and an incredible peace and comfort come over me. Our Blessed Mother is so strong and loving! And she wants all of us to know and love her son, Jesus, as she loves Him.
When my husband became Catholic several years ago, I can honestly say I was never prouder of him. He has a devout Catholic faith and shares this love for the Rosary, now; but the rosary I gave him when he became Catholic sat in his drawer for several months, along with the small book on how to pray it. He’d watched me pray it over the years, and I’d shown him the decades and how to pray it. It took some time, but at last, I saw him bring it one Sunday to Mass.
Mother Mary hears our prayers and is here for us. I cannot imagine myself without having this love and passion for our Blessed Mother and her Rosary. We need to carry a rosary with us and pray it daily! Fr. Donald Calloway, one of my favorite priests, also has an incredible love for the rosary and our Blessed Mother Mary. An author of several books and well-known speaker –he is worth searching out if you don’t know of him. In his book 26 Champions of the Rosary, he shares Pope Leo XIII’s words: “The rosary, if rightly considered, will be found to have in itself special virtues, whether for producing and continuing a state of recollection, or for touching the conscience for its healing, or for lifting up the soul.”
May God bless you, and may you know Our Blessed Mother’s love and the graces that flow through her and her Rosary.
Peggy Green is a parishioner and member of the Parish Pastoral Council at Holy Trinity Catholic Church.
The Rosary: A Pathway to Peace
By Diana Langford
“The Rosary is a powerful weapon to put the demons to flight and to keep oneself from sin… If you desire peace in your hearts, in your homes, and in your country, assemble each evening to recite the Rosary.”
- Pope Pius XI
IN TODAY'S WORLD, FILLED WITH UNCERTAINTY AND TURMOIL, POPE PIUS IX'S WORDS HOLD MORE RELEVANCE THAN EVER. Saints throughout history emphasized the Rosary’s importance and made it part of their daily prayer. St. Padre Pio notably calls it "the weapon for these times,” of our times.
For many, including myself, understanding and appreciating this prayer has been transformative! Although my own journey with the Rosary began with reluctance and doubt, it has become one of my most cherished prayers.
Right out of college, I became a FOCUS missionary and honestly, I rarely prayed the Rosary. Looking back, it was a sheer grace that the Lord allowed that missionary door to open, as I was quite young in my “reversion” back to Catholicism – and still wrestling with aspects, including the Rosary and devotion to Mary. While I felt undeniably called to leave the Protestant group, through which I had come to know Jesus in college, and come back to the Catholic Church, I had misconceptions and leftover judgments to work through. For much of my first year in missionary life, I avoided confronting these doubts, praying the Rosary only when required. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to honor the Blessed Mother, but I saw the Rosary as "rote prayer" and didn’t grasp how it could bring me closer to Jesus.
Little did I know! The entire Rosary is centered around the Gospel, each mystery enabling us to meditate on the events of Jesus’ life and how they apply to us as individuals. When I began to understand this, and that we aren’t praying to Mary but presenting our requests for her to purify and present them to her Son, my perspective radically changed. One of my favorite saints, St. Pope John Paul II devoted an apostolic letter to the Rosary ("Rosarium Virginis Mariae”) that beautifully explains this: “The Rosary is at heart a Christocentric prayer ... it has all the depth of the Gospel message in its entirety."
Also during this time, I read “Left to Tell” by Immaculée Ilibagiza, in which she recounts her survival story during the Rwandan genocide and how the Rosary saved her during that dark time. Her authentic testimony greatly impacted me. Immaculée describes her time in
captivity and how she survivedby clinging tightly to the Rosary: “I began to pray the Rosary… as I had never prayed it before. It calmed my fears and allowed me to see beyond my suffering.” I was struck by how, though she hadn’t previously prayed consistently, the Rosary became a source of strength for her that still remains many years later. Through this simple prayer, Immaculée not only received a miracle but also a profound grace in her heart that allowed her to forgive the unforgivable. This example of unwavering faith inspired me to delve even deeper into this prayer. As my appreciation for the Rosary grew, I witnessed a profound transformation in my own life as well.
Seeking help to overcome reluctance, I was surprised to learn there are many resources to aid the faithful in praying the Rosary, from bead-by-bead scripture reflections to longer meditations that help us place ourselves in the Gospel story. Adding simple scriptures to each mystery was a game-changer for me, enabling my mind to eliminate distractions and deepen my prayer even further. I constantly recommend accompanying the Rosary with these tools for people struggling with this prayer, and I have yet to hear someone say they weren’t impacted by the difference.
I am deeply grateful my eyes were opened to the beautiful gift the Rosary is to our Church. I firmly believe that incorporating it into our lives on a consistent basis, even only briefly, will enrich and transform the Body of Christ! Former Vatican exorcist, Fr. Gabriele Amorth, spoke about an encounter he had during an exorcism when Satan said to him, “If Christians knew the power of the Rosary, it would be the end of me!”
May our Church continue to embrace the Rosary with confidence, allowing it to draw us closer to Christ and bring transformation to our hearts and lives. Our Lady of the Rosary, pray for us!
Diana Langford is the creator of The Saint Junkie, a social media platform for digital evangelization.
Stage of Seminarian Formation Stage of Seminarian Formation
WHEN A YOUNG MAN CHOOSES TO EMBARK ON THE PATH TO PRIESTHOOD, THE FORMATION JOURNEY CAN TAKE UP TO EIGHT YEARS. Why does it require such a lengthy period? Becoming a priest is more than "a profession"; it involves adopting a new identity as another Christ, "alter Christus." This is why the Church requires such a diligent formation process.
Seminarians who enter without a college degree attend four years of College Seminary; seminarians who enter with a college degree may begin with a Propaedeutic year. College Seminary implements the philosophy of the overall formation. Courses offered are like those in traditional colleges but strongly emphasize spiritual growth and development. Seminaries provide a thorough and immersive experience for students who reside, study, and pray with fellow seminarians. Seminarians earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy and the Liberal Arts or Philosophy in Religious Studies upon completion, which prepares them for entrance into the Theological Seminary.
During their studies, seminarians progress through four stages: Propaedeutic, Discipleship, Configuration, and Vocational Synthesis. Each stage encompasses four dimensions of formation: Spiritual, Human, Intellectual, and Pastoral Development.
Four Dimensions of Formation
1. Spiritual Formation: Seminarians engage in daily prayer, spiritual direction, and practices.
2. Human Formation: Seminarians engage in activities, such as retreats and workshops, to enhance personal self-awareness, emotional maturity, and interpersonal skills.
3. Intellectual Formation: Seminarians take foundational courses in theology, philosophy, and other subjects to establish a strong foundation for upcoming studies.
4. Pastoral Formation: Seminary students engage in community service and pastoral duties to cultivate a spirit of service and empathy for others.
FOUR STAGES OF
STUDIES -
1. Propaedeutic Stage - The term "propaedeutic" means to prepare. This initial stage of seminarian formation, which is at least a year, establishes a solid groundwork for the journey to priesthood and focuses on all four dimensions of formation, with strong emphasis on human and spiritual development.
2. Discipleship StageThroughout this stage, the seminarians' primary emphasis is on deepening their connection with Christ. This involves engaging in meditation, contemplation, and philosophical studies, preparing them for theological studies.
3. Configuration Stage - Upon entering the Configuration Stage, the seminarian has been admitted to the Candidacy for Holy Orders, or will be admitted soon, and is preparing to receive the ministries of lector and acolyte. The seminarian experiences more profoundly what it means to truly welcome the Cross. This stage prepares the seminarian for the Diaconate and eventually Priesthood.
4. Vocational Synthesis Stage - This stage marks the transitional phase between diaconate and priestly ordinations. As ordained Deacons, they can incorporate the entirety of formation received and prepare themselves for the final transition into priests within their Diocese. This is the last stage of a seminarian's priestly formation.
The Diocese continuously supports our seminarians during their formation years. Scan the QR code to discover how you can contribute to their education.
PRESBYTERAL ORDINATION - Through the Bishop's laying on of hands, he is anointed by the Holy Spirit. Once ordained a priest, his soul undergoes a permanent transformation, bearing the indelible seal of the sacrament. He now has become a man identified with the person of Jesus Christ, in persona Christi.
Priests embody Christ's teachings, oversee their parish, administer sacraments, spread the word of God, and educate in faith and the teachings of the Catholic Church. Priests guide and support us on our earthly journey towards the eternal kingdom of heaven. This is why the education and formation of our seminarians is such an essential and all-encompassing process.
Diocesan Vocations Office, contact vocations@dioshpt.org for more information.
FEBRUARY 8, 10 AM - 7 PM
CATHEDRAL OF ST. JOHN BERCHMANS, SHREVEPORT
FEBRUARY 22, 9 AM - 7 PM
JESUS THE GOOD SHEPHERD CHURCH, MONROE
Open to all young men currently enrolled in high school in the Diocese of Shreveport.
For more information please contact Vocations Director, Reverend Raney C. Johnson rjohnson@sjbcathedral.org or vocationsoffice@dioshpt.org
To register please scan the QR Code here:
She's Everyone's Mother
AFTER PICKING ME UP FROM THE WICHITA AIRPORT, KARISHMA DROVE TO THE HOTEL WHERE I WOULD SPEAK TO ABOUT 150 PEOPLE THE FOLLOWING DAY. She would also help me set up and test technical equipment, she said. My employer usually provided an IT person so I could focus on preparing my talk rather than growing aggravated with tech problem-solving. As we worked to make everything “just right,” our conversation meandered into our religious faith.
“I’m a Hindu” she proudly shared while ensuring the WiFi worked. “And I’m a Catholic,” I replied, smiling, while assessing the room’s size.
Looking up, her brown eyes wide with excitement, she proclaimed, “Oh, I pray the Rosary every night!”
I stepped off the speaker’s platform, pulled up a chair, and prompted in a quizzical voice, “Tell me more.”
So, Karishma described her prayer practice, which she begins by taking a few moments to center herself before a statue of Mary and light a tall, slender candle. Blessed by a local priest, her rosary was a gift from a Catholic college friend who taught her the Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be, and which prayers to pray on each bead. She ends her night prayers with the Hail, Holy Queen. As I continued to probe, she explained the four Mysteries and which nights she prays each: the Glorious, Joyful, Sorrowful, and Luminous.
Eventually, I stumbled into asking what happens within her while praying her nightly Rosary. “I come in contact with the Divine through His mother, Mary,” she said. “I’m filled with His love and presence as well as hers. There is no better way to end the day than with Mary and Jesus.” I was taken aback with humility and awe! Humility because I seldom pray the Rosary, and awe that this young Hindu woman has such an encounter with God every night by doing so. I needed to talk with God about all of this!
When I returned home, I felt led to begin my prayer time by imagining I was sitting with Mary. Reflecting on my
surprise that not only a non-Catholic but also a nonChristian finds such a spiritual experience in praying the Rosary, I pondered the love of the Blessed Mother, and realized, "If she's my spiritual mother, why would I ever consider that she wasn't Karishma's spiritual mother, as well as the spiritual mother of all?”
This thought led me into a deeper conversation with God. I prayed that He would show me all the ways I have limited my understanding of Him: prayer, grace, mercy, His Presence, the presence of all the saints, and even all of creation. This reflection became more profound and extensive than I could comprehend in one sitting! Returning to it in prayer again and again, I found each time that my grasp and perception of God and Mary grew exponentially in every direction.
Had I not engaged in conversation with – and patiently listened to – someone of another religion, my own faith would be limited. Unbeknownst to me then, I practiced synodality; and it worked! By including someone who didn’t look or believe like me, I experienced God in a new and expanded way. I encourage you to also ponder how being present to and hearing all God’s children enables God to be infinite to us.
One current opportunity for this is through being attentive to the October session of the Synod on Synodality. And another is to pray your daily Rosary for the intention of being open to synodality and all the graces it can bring.
“Mary, the mother of God, is always with us on the synodal path, for she is also ‘Mother of the Church’ (Mater Ecclesiae); mother of all those who are companions and disciples of her son” (Towards a Spirituality of Synodality, p. 45).
Mike Van Vranken is a spiritual director for the Diocese of Shreveport and a teacher of new spiritual directors for the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
The Cathedral Prays the Rosary When Two or Three Are Gathered
in My Name
RECOGNIZED BY ALL CATHOLICS, THE ROSARY IS BOTH A PERSONAL AND COMMUNAL PRAYER. Many meditate on it and recite it daily or weekly, while others gather to pray it on special occasions. Some days, we might struggle with this devotion of concentrated time spent repeating its specific prayers (Hail Mary, Our Father, Glory Be, and the Fatima Prayer), while other days see this repetition aid our focus on Jesus and His life, bringing us peace, comfort and hope!
Through the Cathedral, parishioners of all ages provide numerous opportunities for us to pray this treasured devotion with others.
After the 12:10 p.m. weekday Mass, a small group of devoted women and men remain in the pews until the St. Michael the Archangel Chapel is quiet, then one leads the Rosary’s recitation. All are welcome to join!
We dedicate October, Respect Life Month, to gathering for the Rosary and praying especially for life at all stages, from conception to natural death. For the last decade and a half, Cathedral parishioners have gathered on Respect Life Sunday to pray this beautiful prayer together. And in recent years, our CCD (parish children’s religion class) students led it, inviting all to join their Living Rosary, which truly brings this devotion to life.
Saturday Holy Hours for Vocations are held at the Cathedral from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. throughout the year, and include a communal Rosary during October. For over 15 years, the Cathedral Knights of Columbus (KoC) have also offered a Holy Hour with communal Rosary when they host the KoC’s traveling Silver Rose program in Shreveport.
Our Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Catholic School and CCD students pray the Rosary during the school year, which helps them learn it and grow in this devotion. Our Youth Group and Young Adults also spend time praying with Mary through her Rosary.
Even Saint John Berchmans, our patron saint, shared with other saints in heaven and people on earth a devotion to Mary, and he is always depicted holding his Rosary. Did you know, when Catholics pray the Immaculate Conception Chaplet, we recite what he wrote?!
We hear from many individuals and families who find that praying the Rosary in their home enriches their lives. Recalling the Mysteries of the Rosary reminds us of both Jesus’ time on earth (Joyful, Luminous) and how He gave His life for us (Sorrowful, Glorious). The Rosary is a prayer of thanksgiving and hope! Just as Luke writes of the Blessed Virgin Mary (in 2:18), “And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart,” so do we reflect, in imitation of her, during the Rosary. Consider this simple, beautiful prayer many use to conclude their Rosary:
O God, whose Only Begotten Son, by His life, Death, and Resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech Thee, that while meditating on these mysteries of the most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
Thus, I offer a challenge for you on this year’s Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, October 7: Add the Rosary to your monthly, weekly or daily prayer, perhaps with one of the aids below.
• The Knights of Columbus offer this free excellent audio to pray with: bit.ly/KoCRosary
• Parish offices provide free Rosary pamphlets to help guide you.
• The usccb.org/how-to-pray-the-rosary webpage explains, step-by-step, how to pray the Rosary, provides a video recitation by multiple priests, and offers inspiring artwork for contemplating each mystery.
And with each Rosary we can submit our personal intentions and those asked for by our family, friends and Church family, including:
Let us keep each other in our prayers, as we pray for the sick, the shut-ins, the military, for those who have died and for those grieving, for our seminarians and all discerning their vocation, for the poor souls in purgatory, and for all who cross our path in need of prayer.
Carol Gates is the Lay Ecclesial Minister at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans.
Catholic Charities of North Louisiana Hosts Sold-Out Bingo on the Bayou
GENEROSITY AND FRIENDLY COMPETITION MADE FOR A SUCCESSFUL EVENING AT CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF NORTH LOUISIANA’S (CCNLA) ANNUAL BINGO ON THE BAYOU. The sold-out event, held August 2, was a vibrant evening featuring Monsignor Price as a charismatic emcee, eight rounds of bingo with prizes to local restaurants, and a silent auction with over 60 items. Whether guests went home with a prize or not, they were part of a night filled with laughter, fun, and a strong sense of community, knowing they supported a worthy cause.
“I am so grateful to our sponsors and everyone who made the evening a success,” said Diane Libro, Executive Director.
Bingo on the Bayou is CCNLA’s primary fundraising event for the Shreveport area, which supports its financial education, immigration, and family stability programs. Each year, nonprofits like CCNLA face a "gap" between what an organization will receive through grants and government funding and what it actually costs to operate their programs. Bingo on the Bayou is critical in ensuring that Catholic Charities of North Louisiana can close that gap and continue to meet the needs of the most vulnerable in North Louisiana communities.
In her remarks to the guests, Libro shared the story of LaKeisha, a pregnant mother who was fleeing a domestic violence situation and came to CCNLA. In her haste to leave her situation, LaKeisha could not take any of her things. She left the office grateful and with a car seat, clothing, bottles, and more. This spring, she returned to our office. But this time, she had with her baby items to give to the next mother in need.
“Her smile is one I will never forget," Libro said. "Together, we will ensure smiles like LaKeishia's continue."
CCNLA helped more than 2,700 people across the diocese last year. The next big event will be Bingo on the Delta, held in Monroe in the spring.
Shelby McCarty is the Development Manager of Catholic Charities of North Louisiana.
MA�Y, Mother of God
JESUS THE CHRIST HAD THE GREATEST DECISION TO MAKE IN THE HISTORY OF SALVATION FOR HUMANITY AND THE WHOLE WORLD. His decision was the Salvation, or rather led Him to be the Salvation of Humanity and the Whole World. Never was there, and never will there be a greater decision laid upon any other human being.
However, there was the second greatest decision in the History of Salvation for Humanity and the Whole World. This decision was given to none other than Mary; and it was given from the angel Gabriel in telling and (ultimately) asking if she would receive and conceive a son in her womb, that is Jesus Christ. Mary's answer was simply, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). We may, and we should, ask ourselves why this is so important; otherwise how can we explain it as the second greatest decision after Christ's?
We see that in the Book of Genesis, Adam and Eve, both man and woman, failed to obey God when they ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and thus they led all humanity down a road of Original Sin and Death. Humanity now needed both a man and a woman to change
this, with obedience. And this is what Mary's decisive Fiat, her “May it be done,” indeed accomplishes. As St. Irenaeus said, "The knot of Eve's disobedience was untied by Mary's obedience." This decision of obedience by Mary was necessary for Christ, God, to become incarnate, or become man, so that He could then be obedient to God the Father (as Christ said, Christ had come down to do the will of Him who sent Christ). And Christ indeed did this. As St. Paul said, “For just as through the disobedience of one person [Adam] the many were made sinners, so through the obedience of one [Christ] the many will be made righteous” (Romans 5:19).
Thus was there the important decision and role for Mary in the History of Salvation for Humanity and the Whole World. Let us, then, also and always remember to imitate her Fiat, her “May it be done to me according to your word,” for God has called us, through obedience, to bring Jesus Christ into the world through our lives as well!
Tristan Frisk is a seminarian for the Diocese of Shreveport.
Hail Mary, Full of Grace!
OCTOBER IS THE MONTH OF THE HOLY ROSARY, AND, IN FULL DISCLOSURE, I DON’T PRAY THE ROSARY VERY OFTEN. As a matter of fact (I want to be fully transparent!), I sometimes struggle to pray it. I believe the struggle derives both from not praying it as a child in our home, so it never became a habit, and struggles during my young adult years with my Catholic faith, specifically the Rosary. Ironically, I believe in the Rosary’s power and sincerely admire those who pray it daily, weekly or even monthly. I fully believe that the Bible is in the Rosary and that Satan hates when we pray it, for he knows its power. I believe in Mary’s intercessory prayer via the Rosary and in all of it; yet, I still rarely pray it.
That said, you’ll understand that expressing the Rosary’s meaning to me and sharing my own Rosary story is difficult. Thus, I instead share a story written by Salvador, a detention ministry volunteer from California: “I am a volunteer in the sheriff’s department detention ministry program here in California. I was wondering [one day] if we were really making a difference with the inmates. Were they learning anything? Were they paying attention? Were they praying only during the sessions together? As I made my way out of the center, two police officers came running, calling me back [to tell me]: 'One day, we saw the inmates starting to gather around the beds. We thought that something was about to happen, for that’s what they do when a fight is about to break out. We alerted other officers, and the group of inmates kept growing.
“'We got ready, and just as we were about to go in to break it up … they pulled out their rosaries from their pockets, dropped to their knees bowing their heads, and began their prayer. We were so surprised.... astounded! We stayed away and just watched.'”
americaneedsfatima.org/stories/of-convicts-androsaries
Isn’t that incredible?! Can you imagine the sight of inmates, men who committed crimes, all kneeling with rosaries in hand, offering up their prayers to our Blessed Mother? I have a feeling it left the guards speechless for quite some time. After reading this story, I immediately asked myself this question, “What more will it take for me to intentionally pray the Rosary once a week or, at minimum, once a month?” Honestly, I do not have an answer but I do know this, our Mother Mary is waiting on me, and perhaps you as well, to call out to her so she in turn can call out to her Son, our Lord and Savior, on our behalf.
Another irony I find interesting regarding my mild struggles: I have two rosaries that are priceless to me. One belonged to my beloved great aunt Rosa, who was more like a grandmother, and the other was a wedding gift from my Baptist in-laws. I know, it all sounds crazy! If you are shaking your head as you read these words, know that I am doing the same as I write them.
Brothers and sisters, especially now, may all of us, regardless of how often we do or do not pray the Rosary, take time this month in particular to pray it specifically for our nation as we enter a very heated election year.
Pray for us O’ Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Mary Arcement Alexander is a Licensed Professional Counselor & the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator.
Jesus the Good shepherd school
ONE OF OUR CHERISHED TRADITIONS AT JGS IS WEEKLY ADORATION, WHERE STUDENTS AND FACULTY GATHER AS A SCHOOL COMMUNITY TO OFFER THEIR PRAYERS. They often pray the Rosary for the intentions of our students and our school, as well as personal prayers brought forth by our school family. This practice allows our students to engage in meaningful reflection and trust in the intercession of Mary, a powerful advocate for all who seek her aid.
Another unique tradition at JGS is the weekly presentation of a desk-size figurine of Mary during Friday school Mass to a chosen class. This selection is not just a random choice but a responsibility and a privilege. Each week, our priest carefully selects a class to receive this statue, and for that week, Mary remains with the chosen class. Throughout the week, students pray the Rosary together, fostering a closer relationship with Our Lady and learning more about Her role as our spiritual mother. Through prayer, they are reminded that Mary's intercession is a source of comfort, strength, and peace.
The Rosary and Mary's intercession are essential aspects of our Catholic identity. At JGS, we strive to teach our students not only the prayers of the Church but also the importance of leaning on the Blessed Mother in times of need, trusting that She will guide and protect us all the way to Christ. May the Mother of all Creation continue to bless and protect Jesus the Good Shepherd School and Church.
Amy Fakhre is the Director of Development for Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish and School.
LOYOLA COLLEGE PREP OPEN HOUSE
Loyola College Prep invites middle school students for private tours of Loyola’s campus during Open House week on October 21-25
Tours are done in small groups, and registration is required. To schedule a tour, visit: www.loyolaprep.org/open-house-2024
“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 faith-based 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!
14TH
TICKET $5 PERSON
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE SEMINARIANS
To purchase tickets scan the code or visit our website:
cathedral of st. John Berchmans catholic school
IN OCTOBER, WE CELEBRATE THE GIFT OF THE HOLY ROSARY. At SJB School, the Rosary is an integral part of our faith life. Our students pray the Rosary for special intentions and when needs arise in our community. When a member of our school family needs prayer, we join together and offer a Rosary for them. Students also participate in the living Rosary each spring. This beautiful tradition has been ongoing for at least 20 years.
Last year, our 8th-grade class painted a beautiful rosary on the school's back patio as their parting gift. This visible reminder of their dedication to both their alma mater and the Blessed Mother is seen and interacted with every day in this highly trafficked area of our campus. With this beautiful legacy, we are reminded of this class’s generosity of spirit and their love of SJB.
This year, the entire SJB School community will celebrate an important milestone: our 75th Anniversary! We have been providing 75 years of excellent education anchored in the Roman Catholic faith. While the Cathedral parish has been providing a quality education for over 120 years, SJB School has been in its current location on Jordan Street since 1949. Imagine, right here in one historic block in Shreveport, Louisiana, there has been decades of Catholic education. We invite you to join us for our 75th Anniversary Parish Thanksgiving Celebration and Picnic, on Sunday, November 17 following the 11 AM Mass. We hope to see you there!
Cassandra Key is the Director of Communications and Development for the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Parish and School.
s t . J oseph c atholic s chool
ONE OF THE REASONS FAMILIES CHOOSE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS IS THAT IT IS AN EFFECTIVE WAY OF PASSING ON THE FAITH TO ANOTHER GENERATION. One of the most important ways the faith is passed on is to learn how to pray. Prayer allows us to lift our minds and hearts to God to enter more fully into union with Him. One of the most important prayers is the Holy Mass. We are taught that this is the central act of Christian worship (CCC #1328), and we truly encounter Christ in the most intimate way. All that we do, therefore, should lead us to the worship of Christ, and the worship of Christ should flow into all areas of our lives.
In her motherly wisdom, the Church realizes that fully understanding this central mystery is at the heart of the Catholic faith. The Church provides many forms of prayer that lead to deeper worship and understanding of Christ. One of the most important and common forms of prayer that students will learn and participate in at St. Joseph Catholic School is the Holy Rosary (note: the feast of the Our Lady of the Rosary is on Monday, October 7th).
The rosary, a devotion believed to have been handed on to St. Dominic de Guzman by the Blessed Mother herself around 1214 AD, allows us to meditate on Scriptures and teachings that have been revealed to us. They reveal deep and intimate expressions of Christ's love, revealing God's entire plan to us through His son and the holy mother Christ, his servant Mary. Most of the stories are quite familiar to children.
These moments from Scripture are heard at Mass and taught to us in religion class. Rather than allowing the information to be simple facts or events in a history
lesson, we take time to reflect a little deeper on these and what they may reveal about our savior. Students who begin praying the rosary learn that it is not constantly repeating rote prayers. Instead, the prayers keep us united to our Mother, who guides us by the hand through the different experiences of the love of Christ. The Church hopes that having a deeper, more reflective understanding of Christ through these sets of holy mysteries will lead to a deeper, more intimate relationship with the one who loves us most and whom we are called to love above all.
During October, there are usually special occasions when the rosary is prayed. This occurs in our local parishes, or maybe it's prayed more in our homes. If not, this is a perfect time to do so. Sure, this can be challenging. I have mentioned before that my wife and I have four kids. It can be somewhat difficult to engage all of them at all times in such deep prayer. Possibly start off with a decade. Consider taking your child on a rosary walk. Our school prays a school-wide rosary involving a number of students and invites the entire school community to be part of it. However you choose to pray the rosary, do so in a manner knowing that it ought to lead you closer to Christ through the guidance of the Blessed Mother. This, of course, is why we teach such prayer at St. Joseph Catholic School.
Clayton Cobb is the principal at St. Joseph Catholic School.
SEMINARIAN BURSES
THANKS TO OUR RECENT DONORS: (005) Cathedral of St. John Berchmans Burse
The Congregation of St. Johns Roman Catholic Church (008) St. Jude Parish Burse
Charles & Beverly Bennett (011)2 Rev. David Richter Memorial Burse #2
Anonymous (015) Bishop’s Seminarian Burse
Anonymous
Ms. Patricia Mitchell (017) Msgr. George Martinez Knights of Columbus Council 1337 Burse (COMPLETED)
Knights of Columbus Council 1337 (029) Rev. Kenneth Williams Memorial Burse
Mary Ligon (035)3 Dr. James V. & Rosemary C. Ward Burse #3
Mrs. Rosemary C. Ward (036)4 Msgr. Earl Vincent Provenza Burse #4
Anonymous (045) Sister Martinette Rivers Memorial Burse
Anonymous (050) St. Joseph Shreveport Mary's Workers Burse
Jennifer Henley Hernandez (052) Dr. Matthew Ragan Green, Jr. Memorial Burse (NEW)
Dr. & Mrs. Robert C. Hernandez
Dr. & Mrs. Joseph S. Heard
Mr. & Mrs. John G. Grogan
Cole, Evans & Peterson, CPA
Mr. John S. Comegys
Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Mitton
Mrs. Jill Braniff
Mrs. Margaret Green
The Knights of Columbus Council 1337 in Monroe is proud to support seminarians in the Diocese of Shreveport. The Council just completed its first burse with the Diocese in support of men in the seminary. According to Bobby Brinkerhoff, Grand Knight of the Monroe Council; “Our Council’s burse was started many years ago and recently at a meeting, we made a commitment to contribute every year to complete the original burse. Every time the burse was brought up in subsequent meetings, it was met with overwhelming support and contributions. The closer we got to completing it, the more people seemed to give.” KC Council 1337 in Monroe plans to open and contribute to another burse this year and would like to challenge all other Knights of Columbus Councils and other Catholic organizations in the Diocese to do the same. “After all,” said Brinkerhoff, “It’s one thing we can do to make a real difference as Catholics, by supporting our seminarians who will eventually serve us as priests!”
The Diocese of Shreveport’s Seminarian Burse Program provides financial support for our seminarians' livelihood and education until they become ordained as priests, a path that can take up to eight years to complete. It currently costs an average of $50,000 per year to educate and support one seminarian.
Donations can be made to any existing incomplete burse at any time. (A burse is “completed” once it reaches $10,000.) A new seminary burse can be opened with a donation of $250 or more and can be established in honor or memory of a loved one, in the name of especially well-loved priests or organizations with any amount of money.
All donations to the Seminary Burse Program remain untouched principal. Only interest and dividends from the endowed fund are used to pay for the annual cost of seminarian formation. For more information on how to establish or contribute to a burse, please contact the Development Office at (318) 219-7260.
To see an up-to-date list of incomplete and complete burses, please scan here
To donate to an established seminarian burse, please scan here
Left to right: Darryl Gregory (Deputy Grand Knight-Program Director), Eric Thibodeaux (Faith Director), Bobby Brinkerhoff (Grand Knight)
Blessing of the Graves
EASTERN DEANERY
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 2ND
Forest Line Cemetery
Blessing – 11:30 AM 7445 Highway 17, Pioneer
Kilbourne Cemetery
Blessing – 10:00 AM Maple Street, Kilbourne
Lake Providence City Cemetery
Blessing – 10:00 AM 1450 Lake Street, Lake Providence
Oak Grove Cemetery
Blessing – 1:30 PM 144 North Old Kilbourne Road, Oak Grove
Providence Memorial Park
Blessing – 11:00 AM 7278 Highway 134, Lake Providence
Redwing Cemetery
Blessing – 1:30 PM 100-135 LA-582, Oak Grove
Riverview Cemetery
Blessing – 1:00 PM 3901 South Grand Street, Monroe
St. Lucy Cemetery 12:00 PM Mass - Blessing to follow 1100 South Second Street, Hodge
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 3RD
Mulhearn Cemetery 3:00 PM - Blessing 623 Highway 80 East, Monroe
St. Joseph Cemetery 11:00 AM Mass - Blessing to follow 760 North Washington Street, Bastrop
St. Matthew Cemetery
1:30 PM – Blessing 314 North 11th Street, Monroe
St. Paschal Cemetery 2:00 PM - Blessing 1500 Arkansas Road, West Monroe
WESTERN DEANERY
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND
Centuries Memorial Park Cemetery 11:00 AM - Blessing 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport Meet at Gazebo – North End of Property
Hill Crest Memorial Park Cemetery 11:00 AM - Blessing 601 Highway 80 East, Haughton Meet at Mausoleum
Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery
11:00 AM - Blessing 6915 West 70th Street, Shreveport Meet at Office
St. Joseph Cemetery
11:00 AM - Blessing and Mass 2100 Texas Avenue, Shreveport
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD
Forest Park Cemetery
1:00 PM - Blessing 3700 St. Vincent Avenue, Shreveport Meet at Mausoleum across from Office
Forest Park Cemetery West 1:45 PM - Blessing 4000 Meriwether Road, Shreveport Meet at Mausoleum
Rose-Neath Cemetery
2:00 PM - Blessing 5185 Swan Lake Spur, Bossier City Meet at Statue in Catholic Section on Right
Round Grove Memorial Gardens Cemetery
2:20 PM - Blessing 2869 Round Grove Lane, Shreveport
SOUTHERN DEANERY
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST
St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery
6:00 PM Mass - Blessing to follow 1130 San Antonio Avenue, Many
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND
Highland Cemetery
9:30 AM - Blessing 1500 Old Jefferson Highway, Mansfield
Immaculate Conception Cemetery & Rock Chapel Cemetery, Carmel
10:30 AM - Blessing & Social 1822 Smithport Lake Road, Mansfield
Mansfield Cemetery
9:00 AM - Blessing 303 Van Buren Street, Mansfield
St. Ann Cemetery #1
8:00 AM - Blessing 2264 Highway 171, Stonewall
St. Ann Cemetery #2
8:30 PM - Blessing Jeanne Lane, Stonewall
St. Francis Xavier Cemetery 1:00 PM - Blessing 611 Friendship Road, Frierson
St. John the Baptist Cemetery 12:30 PM - Blessing 21527 Highway 175, Pelican
St. Mary’s Cemetery
11:45 AM – Blessing & Social 1009 Highway 346, Pelican
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD
Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery 2:00 PM - Blessing 7970 Mike Clark Road, Keithville Meet at Committal Shelter
MONDAY NOVEMBER 4TH
Old St. Joseph Cemetery 4:00 PM - Blessing Bucky Murdock Road, Zwolle
St. Ann Cemetery 8:00 AM - Blessing 5272 Highway 482, Noble
St. Catherine Cemetery 3:00 PM - Blessing 878 Highway 1218, Noble
St. Joseph Cemetery 12:00 PM - Blessing 305 Hammond Street, Zwolle
Embark on a Pilgrimage to Italy with the Department of Multicultural Ministries!
The Diocese of Shreveport invites you to celebrate the Jubilee Year of 2025 with an unforgettable pilgrimage to Italy alongside thousands of young adults to rediscover the beauty of our Catholic faith!
JULY 26 - AUGUST 5TH, 2025
The Knights of Columbus presented a check to Bishop Malone for Excellence in Religious Education. Pictured from left to right: Dean Sondgeroth, Joseph Lacobee Jr., Bishop Malone, Ronald Dupuis - District Marshall, Calvin Joyner, and Steve Cude.
Red River Catholics, the newest ministry in the Diocese of Shreveport celebrated a candlelight Mass at St. Joseph, Shreveport.
Catholic Charities extended their hospitality to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) by hosting SVdP’s West District July meeting at their Olive Street facility. Pictured left to right, Maria Powell, Mary Queen of Peace Conference; Jean Woods, Catholic Charities Community Services Coordinator and SVdP West District Vice-President; Sara Harville, Pius X Conference; Joe Glorioso, Sacred Heart Conference; Randel Shelton, St. Jude Conference; and Richard Buchanan, Christ the King Conference.
Fr. Calistus B. Makokha, FMH, Associate Pastor at St Paschal Church, is the newest 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 3642 in West Monroe. Marty Deseamus Jr. presented Fr. Calistus with his official K of C blue shirt!
Our students in their first year of the two years of formation for the Sacrament of Confirmation and their parents were invited to make a “mini’ pilgrimage to their deanery parish to offer their Inscription Promise. (St. Mary of the Pines, Shreveport, St. Joseph, Zwolle, Jesus the Good Shepherd, Monroe)
The Inscription Promise from students and parents promised to the best of their ability to serious to regular attendance at Mass and serious study of the Catholic faith. Being faithful in these matters will help prepare them to assume the responsibilities of a mature confirmed Catholic.
At the Mass the Priest from the deanery (Very Rev. Mark Watson, Very Rev. Keith Garvin, Very Rev. Pater Mangum) offered a blessing over the students and parents and received their signed Inscription Promises. Followed by each of the students receiving a blessed Holy Spirit bracelet to remind them of their promise as they move forward in formation. Please join us in praying for all students as they journey closer to the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The Catholic Service Appeal supports 19 programs and ministries in the Diocese of Shreveport including vocations for the priesthood, college campus ministry, promoting the sanctity of life, caring for our retired priests, the teaching of our Catholic faith to our youth, and so much more.
As Catholics, we are called together in faith and in love to ensure that the mission of Jesus Christ carries on in our diocese. Your prayers and your support of the Appeal can make this possible.
Donations to the 2024 Catholic Service Appeal can be received anytime between now and December 31, 2024. Your gift to the Appeal is a blessing to thousands of people across North Louisiana. Thank you for your support!
Please list below any special intentions for which you would like prayer assistance.
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: Young adults enjoyed fellowship at Great Raft Brewing as part of the newest ministry group in the Diocese of Shreveport - Red River Catholics. Follow us on social media to learn more about upcoming events for young adutls in the diocese!