Bayou Catholic Magazine February 2020

INSIDE

Mardi Gras

Bayou

Catholic

The official magazine of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration FEBRUARY 2020 ~ VOL. 40 NO. 8 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

2 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020 • Muchas personas se ven beneficiadas de su apoyo a la CMAI: • Los estudiantes de la pequeñia escuela misionera en el sureste de los EEUU. • La Comunidad Católica atendida por un diácono Nativo Americana en Alaska.

• La parroquia Nativo Americana en la Pradera.

Su apoyo ayuda a todas estas personas a llegar a conocer a Jesús.

• La CMAI ayuda a conseguir buenos maestros para escuelas que en otras circunstancias estarian luchando para mantenerse abiertas.

• Los fondos de la CMAI ayudan a las diócesis a formar ministros laicos y catequistas para difundir el Evangelio en sus propias comunidades.

• Contribuir a la CMAI ayuda a animar a jóvenes Afroamericanos e Indígenas a entregar su vida al Señor como sacerdotes, religiosos o religiosas.

• Many people benefit from your support of the BIMC: • Students in the small mission school in the Deep South.

• The Catholic community served by a Native deacon in Alaska.

• The Native American parish on the prairie.

Your support helps all of them come to know Jesus.

• The BIMC helps get good teachers in schools that would otherwise struggle to stay open.

• Funding from the BIMC helps dioceses form lay ministers and catechists to spread the Gospel in their own communities.

• Supporting the BIMC helps encourage young African Americans and Native Americans to give their lives to the Lord as priests, brothers, or sisters.

Thank you for your generosity.

The collection will be held February 29 and March 1, 2020

www.blackandindianmission.org/nationalcollection

Our Mission to the Missions

BUILDING

La Colecta para las Misiones Afroamericanas e Indigenas (CMAI) existe para ayudar a los obispos y las diócesis a edificar la Iglesia entre las comunidades Afroamericanas, Indigenas y de Nativos de Alaska.

The Black and Indian Mission Collection (BIMC) exists to help bishops and dioceses to build up the Church in African American, Native American, and Alaska Native communities.

BLACK AND INDIAN MISSION COLLECTION

Annual Bishop’s Appeal 20202020 Annual Bishop’s Appeal

Please prayerfully consider a generous donation today.

Ways to Give:

By Mail:

Your gift to the 2020 Annual Bishop’s Appeal will directly assist:

Catholic Schools, Seminarian Education, Religious Education, and Support of our Retired Priests

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Annual Bishop’s Appeal Office Post Office Box 505 Schriever, LA 70395

At your Parish: Place your envelope in the In-Pew collection on Sunday Your pledge is key to continued growth in ministries that strive to live the Lord’s Mission.

Please make checks payable to Annual Bishop’s Appeal.

Online: Visit our secure online giving site at www.htdiocese.org/bishopsappeal

For more information on how your gift can make an impact please call 985-850-3122

Contents

Features 44 Reflections of a Mardi Gras

krewe member

By Janet Marcel

Columns 8 Comfort For My People

By Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

12

Pope Speaks

Pope Francis I

13

Questions of Faith

By Father Wilmer Todd

14

Readings Between the Lines

By Father Glenn LeCompte

26

A Deacon’s Wife’s Confessions

By Angie Lefevre

27

Reading With Raymond

By Raymond Saadi

50

Overtime

By Ed Daniels

In Every Issue 6 From the Editor 16 Scripture Readings 22 Heavenly Recipes 24 Youth In Action 25 Daily Prayer for Priests,

On Our Cover

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

The St. Lucy Gospel Choir provided music for the Mass honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. recently at St. Lucy Church in Houma. See pages 20-21 of this issue for more photos of the celebrations at St. Lucy and St. Luke Churches.

4 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Deacons and Seminarians

36

Diocesan Events

Announcements 28 Racial Sobriety workshop Feb. 29 29 Catholic Foundation Update 30 Danos Foundation donates to diocese 35 Three permanent deacons retire 40 Food for the Journey, March 3,

Father Duc Bui speaks

41

Abbey Youth Fest, March 21

Bayou Catholic Heavenly Recipes

How to reach us:

BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132

20Savanna Bourg

18

BY MAIL: P.O. Box 505 Schriever, LA 70395

BY FAX: (985) 850-3232

BY E-MAIL: bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org

The Bayou Catholic is published monthly, for the people of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux by the H-T Publishing Co., P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395.

Subscription rate is $35 per year.

Savanna Cooks a:

QUICK FIX MEAL 22

This month’s heavenly recipe, chicken orzo soup, comes rom St. Louis, Bayou Blue parishioner Savanna Bourg. The 7-year-old student says that she can remember cooking at n early age. “I love to cook. It is fun for me. I can remember ooking when I was seven years old. My mom would let me fix reakfast. That’s how it all began for me.”

Savanna says that she learned a lot about cooking from watching her dad cook. “My dad loves to cook. He is a tow oat captain. He also enjoys cooking on the boat for the crew.

My mom is the one who cooks mostly at home. She enjoys ooking wild game,” says Savanna.

Savanna, who is home-schooled, lives with her parents Grace and Chad Bourg. She attends E Learning Academy n Houma and is currently in her senior year. “The home chooling gives me the opportunity to do what I like to do nd get an education. I am a first grade CCD teacher t St. Louis. I also work at Acadian Appraisal. I am ble to go to school at my own pace and still work nd manage church activities.”

The student attended the latest NCYC onference in Indianapolis, is active in the adies Auxiliary at St. Louis and helps cook for he annual Lenten luncheons, dinner events and

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The Bayou Catholic is a member of the Catholic Press Association, the National Newspaper Association and an associate member of the Louisiana Press Association.

Chicken Orzo Soup

Lawrence Chatagnier

editor and general manager

INGREDIENTS:

April LeBouef 2 tbsps. olive oil business manager 1/2 cup onion, diced 1/2 cup celery, diced Janet Marcel 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced staff writer/administrative assistant 2 cloves garlic, minced Brooks Lirette 1/2 tsp. salt advertising accounts executive 1/2 tsp. pepper Lisa Schobel Hebert 2-32 oz. chicken broth graphic designer 1 cup water 1 rotisserie chicken, deboned and shredded Meridy Liner 1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta accounts receivable/payable assistant 1 tbsp. chopped parsley

24

DIRECTIONS:

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Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium or Find us on the web heat. Saute’ the onion, celery, carrots and garlic with www.bayoucatholic.org salt and pepper until tender. Once tender, add chicken broth, water and chicken. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Add orzo and parsley; allow to cook for 15 minutes.

Where to find your Bayou Catholic

50

Bayou Catholic magazine can be found at all Catholic churches and Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

To pick up a copy, you may also visit the merchants who advertise in our issue. Those wishing to receive the magazine by mail can call Janet Marcel at (985) 850-3132 or write to Bayou Catholic, P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395.

Subscription price is $35 annually. For the online edition, go to www.bayoucatholic.com

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 5

From the Editor

Random acts of kindness A prelude to Lent

The month of February has its share of special days. Some of the more notable days are Groundhog Day, Feb. 2, Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, Presidents’ Day, Feb. 17. This year Mardi Gras is Feb. 25 and Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, is Feb. 26.

With our thoughts being directed toward Lent, there is a day in February that could help us develop a particular mindset for the Lenten season. Feb. 17 is National Random Acts of Kindness Day. Random Acts of Kindness Day grows in popularity each year. It is celebrated by individuals, groups, and organizations nationwide, to encourage acts of kindness. It is a favorite day to many, as people everywhere are enjoying doing acts of kindness.

In this issue’s Questions of Faith, Father Wilmer Todd writes about Ash Wednesday and Lenten practices. He says, “Lent is an opportunity to look at our priorities in life to see whether they are Jesus’ priorities. It’s an opportunity to examine our attitudes and see if we have “the mind of Christ.” In

the spiritual life as with all life, attitude is everything. Our actions follow our attitudes. If we have a bad attitude, we will do bad things.

If we have a Christlike attitude, we will do Christlike things. So it is very important that we develop a Christian attitude based on Jesus’ teachings.”

Perhaps we can engage in some random acts of kindness this month as an introduction to the Lenten season. Performing some random acts of kindness may help us to develop the Christlike attitude that Father Todd mentions.

Here are 15 really attainable random acts of kindness that are easy to do!

1. Pay it backward: Buy coffee for the person behind you in line.

2. Compliment the first three people you talk to today.

3. Send a positive text message to five different people today.

4. Surprise a neighbor with freshly baked cookies or treats.

5. Let someone go in front of you in line who only has a few items.

6. Try to make every person in a group conversation feel included.

7. Send a gratitude email to a coworker who deserves more recognition.

8. Know parents who could use a night out? Offer to babysit for free.

9. Leave a kind server the biggest tip you can afford.

10. Write your partner a list of things you love about them.

11. Purchase extra dog or cat food and bring it to an animal shelter.

12. Find opportunities to give compliments. It costs nothing, takes no time, and could make someone’s

6 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

entire day. Don’t just think it. Say it.

13. Run an errand for a family member who is busy.

14. Put your phone away while in the company of others.

15. Email or write to a former teacher who made a difference in your life.

Lent is a time for reaching out for God’s love and working with all our might to become better people, better Christians. Jesus taught his disciples what they should not do, but he also taught them what they should do, and that includes doing positive things that affect the spiritual growth and advancement of ourselves and others. We should try every Lent to resolve daily to do at least a couple of positive things that will help people around us to grow in faith, hope and charity.

Hopefully with a little practice before the season of Lent we can set the tone for kindness and gratitude, which will help us make this Lent our best ever.

Remember, after reading Bayou Catholic, pass it on to a friend or relative who might not be attending Mass. It’s one of the great ways to do your part in spreading the Good News! BC

Lawrence

Lawrence Chatagnier Editor & General Manager

Richard Abben, MD

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Comment

Let’s make this Lent our best for spiritual growth Comfort For My People Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

Does an easy penitential practice even count? This question often arises as the penitential season of Lent approaches. The question usually references the fact that seafood here in our area is so abundant and so much of a treat that it hardly seems to count as a sacrifice to not eat meat on Fridays.

While a sacrifice should cause some inconvenience, it does not have to hurt to be helpful. For example, consider exercise. A workout does not need to leave us sore every time to be helpful.

In fact, constant soreness is a sign that we are probably doing too much if we are not becoming accustomed to the exercise.

In undertaking exercise there are two important variables: 1) how hard the exercise is; and 2) how many times it will be repeated. Repetition is important in the world of fitness. Repetition lets us do a lot of work without injury. By repeating an exercise that we know we can accomplish, we can do it safely while still having a challenge that leads us to better health. In this same manner, when we consider Lenten penance, for most people it is not about the spiritual practices of monks or nuns, but is rather about doing something which deepens our relationship with Jesus and makes us a better disciple of the Lord. It is about embracing a spiritual penitential practice that is a challenge for you, but one that you know you can repeat for the whole of Lent, and thereby it can become a habit that can be built on by more challenging spiritual practices in the future.

Furthermore, after exercising, real rest helps us to heal and return renewed. The risk of an overly difficult

exercise is injury; the risk of an overly difficult penance is that we might give up. The answer to both is rest. Before we begin any penance, we ought to plan out the rhythm of rest and work for the duration of the penance. We cannot fast every day and work hard at the same time. Our bodies will not allow it. Are we fasting? Maybe no more than once or twice a week. Are we praying? Most of us cannot pray for an entire day each time. Maybe a daily rosary and one other devotion. Are we giving alms? It cannot be our entire income. Maybe the cost of a week’s worth of drive through coffee or other such small luxuries. All of these penitential practices are a good beginning. Also, we should pay attention to how we feel. Penance will always be somewhat unpleasant, but we should not be miserable all the time. This may be a sign that we are doing too much or that we are not taking enough time to rest. If we feel we are not challenged at all, maybe it is time to add a little more for a little while. Test the new practice to see if it fits your needs. We can adjust to our shifting realities. We should not expect heroic action when we are sick or suddenly busier than we expected. We can look for advice or talk through our plans and adjustments with another person who is trying to strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ. It is amazing the wisdom and insight that I can get from another competent person just by virtue of them not being me.

If this is your first Lent for serious penitential practices, or a serious return

8 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

to penitential practices during Lent, here are some basics. n Make a special effort at liturgical prayer. Plan to attend the Ash Wednesday and Holy Week liturgies in addition to Sunday Mass. n Take up fasting and abstinence from meat, particularly as the church requires us to do on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Fasting is the practice of having only one full meal during the day supported by up to two much smaller meals. n Take abstinence from meat on Friday seriously. n Put some effort into serious almsgiving to the poor and needy. Talk to God about the gifts you have; talk about who you are inspired to help, and talk about any concerns or fears you may have. Find a charity that matches your goals. Most church parishes will have the Catholic Relief Services Operation Rice Bowl as an opportunity to help hungry people around the world.

On the local side, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux helps people in our area.

While it may shock no one, you and I are not super humans. It makes sense for us not to assume that we are and to adjust to our limitations. Start with the basics and choose ease of repetition over difficulty. Listen to the way you feel and adjust accordingly. Together we can make this Lent our best Lent for spiritual growth in discipleship in relation to Jesus Christ. Please pray for me, and know of my prayers for you. BC

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 9

Comentario

Hagamos lo mejor en esta Cuaresma para nuestro crecimiento espiritual ¿Habrá una práctica de penitencia fácil? Esta pregunta usualmente surge cuando se acerca la temporada de penitencia cuaresmal. La pregunta usualmente se refiere al hecho de que los mariscos en nuestra área abundan tanto que la amenaza de no comer carne los viernes difícilmente parece contar como un sacrificio. Por ejemplo, considera el ejercicio. Un ejercicio no necesariamente nos tiene que dejar adoloridos. De hecho, un dolor extendido es un signo de que probablemente estemos haciendo demasiado y no nos hemos llegado a acostumbrar al ejercicio.

Hay dos variables al comprometerse al ejercicio: 1) Cuan duro es el ejercicio; y 2) Cuantas veces tendrá que ser repetido. La repetición es importante en el mundo de la buena condición física. La repetición nos permite hacer mucho trabajo sin lastimarnos. En el repetir un ejercicio que sabemos podemos lograr, podemos hacerlo en forma segura mientras mantenemos el desafío que nos lleva a una salud mejor. De la misma manera, cuando consideramos la penitencia cuaresmal, para la mayoría de las personas esto no es una práctica espiritual de monjes y monjas, sino más bien hacer algo que ayuda a profundizar en la relación con Jesús y nos hace un mejor discípulo del Señor. Se trata de abrazar la práctica espiritual de penitencia que es un reto para ti, pero que tú sabes puedes repetirlo toda la cuaresma, y por consiguiente, puede llegar a ser un hábito que puede construirse con más prácticas espirituales en el futuro.

Aún más, después del ejercicio, el descanso real nos ayuda a sanar y regresar renovados. El riesgo de demasiado ejercicio difícil es dañino; el riesgo de demasiada penitencia difícil es que quizás nos rindamos. La respuesta para ambos es descansar.

Antes de empezar alguna penitencia, debemos planear el ritmo de descansos y trabajos para lo que dura la penitencia. No podemos ir aprisa cada día y trabajar duro al mismo tiempo.

Nuestros cuerpos no lo permiten. ¿Estamos ayunando? Quizá no más de

una o dos veces a la semana. ¿Estamos rezando? La mayoría de nosotros no podemos orar un día completo cada vez. Quizá un rosario diario y otra devoción. ¿Estamos dando limosna? No podemos dar todos nuestros ingresos.

Quizá lo que cuesta en una semana el café que se compra u otro pequeño lujo.

Todas estas prácticas penitenciales son un buen principio. También, deberíamos poner atención a cómo nos sentimos. Este quizá sea un signo de que estamos haciendo demasiado o que no estamos tomando suficiente tiempo para descansar. Si sientes que no estás siendo desafiado en nada, quizá es tiempo de añadir un poco más por el momento. Prueba la nueva práctica y ve si se ajusta a tus necesidades.

Podemos ajustarnos a nuestras realidades cambiantes. No deberíamos esperar una acción heroica cuando estamos enfermos o inesperadamente estamos ocupados más de lo que esperábamos. Podemos buscar consejo o hablar de nuestros planes y ajustes con otra persona quien está tratando de fortalecer su relación con Jesucristo.

Es maravillosa la sabiduría y las ideas que puedo obtener de otra persona competente por la virtud de ellos mismos que no son como yo.

Si esta es tu primera cuaresma de una práctica penitencial seria, o un serio regreso de práctica penitencial durante cuaresma, aquí hay algunas cosas básicas. n Haz un esfuerzo especial en la oración litúrgica. Planea asistir a las

10 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

liturgias de Miércoles de Ceniza y Semana Santa además de las misas dominicales. n Haz ayuno y abstinencia de carne, particularmente como la iglesia nos lo indica, en Miércoles de Ceniza y Viernes Santo. El ayuno es la práctica de tener una comida completa en el día apoyado de dos pequeñas comidas. n Toma la abstinencia de carne seriamente los viernes. n Pon el esfuerzo en una limosna seria a los pobres y necesitados. Habla con Dios de los dones que tienes; habla acerca de quién te inspira a ayudar, y háblale acerca de tus preocupaciones y miedos que tengas. Encuentra una forma de hacer caridad que se ajuste a tus posiblidades. La mayoría de las parroquias tendrán la Operación Plato de Arroz de Catholic Relief Services como una oportunidad para ayudar a gente hambrienta alrededor del mundo.

A nivel local, Caridades Católicas de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux ayuda a gente de nuestra área.

Mientras esto no sofoque a nadie, tú y yo no somos súper humanos. Tiene sentido para nosotros no asumir lo que somos y ajustarnos a nuestras limitaciones. Empezar con lo básico y elegir una repetición fácil en vez de difícil. Escucha la manera en que te sientes y ajústate de acuerdo a esta.

Juntos podemos hacer lo mejor en esta cuaresma para nuestro crecimiento espiritual en el discipulado en relación con Jesucristo. Favor de rezar por mí, tú cuenta con mis oraciones. BC

Binh luan bang loi

Chúng ta cùng sống mùa chay thánh thiện nhất Sự hãm mình nho nhỏ có còn hiệu nghiệm nữa không? Câu hỏi này thường được nhắc tới mỗi lần việc hy sinh hãm mình mùa chay lại đến. Nó được cân nhắc trong sự hiển nhiên là hải sản nơi chúng ta sống quá dồi dào và đem chúng lên bàn ăn thật dễ dàng mà khó lòng được xem là sự hy sinh nếu phải kiêng tḥịt trong ngày thứ Sáu. Trong lúc hy sinh hãm mình gây ra vài điều không thuận tiện, nó lại không làm hại gì cho chúng ta. Ví dụ như tập thể dục. Tập thể dục không thể nào tạo ra sự đau đớn mỗi khi tập để mang lại kết quả. Sự thật mà nói, đau đớn mỗi khi tập là dấu hiệu là chúng ta tập quá độ mà chúng ta không có thói quen tập.

Chú tâm vào tập thể dục thì có hai yếu tố quan trọng: 1) động tác tập khó tới đâu; 2) động tác đó lập lại bao nhiêu lần.

Tập đi tập lại rất quan trọng trong môn thể dục. Nó giúp ta làm đi làm lại mà không gây ra thương tích, tập đi tập lại cùng động tác mà mình biết giúp ta hoàn thành động tác đó, ta có thể tập an toàn nhưng không kém phần thử thách vì nó giúp mình tìm được sức khoẻ khá hơn.

Cùng một lý luận đó, khi chúng ta nghĩ đến hy sinh hãm mình, đại đa số cho rằng đó không phải là việc hãm mình chỉ dành cho các tu sĩ nam nữ, nhưng là việc hãm mình mà chúng ta hy sinh giúp ta gắn bó với Chúa Giêsu hơn và làm cho ta thành môn đệ xứng đáng hơn của Ngài. Đó chính là mở lòng hãm mình thiêng liêng mà cần sự thử thách của anh chị em, nhưng khi anh chị am hiểu và thực hành hết mùa chay, thì kết quả sẽ thành thói quen và anh chị có thể dùng nó như bàn đạp tiến xa hơn trong tương lai.

Thêm vào đó, sau khi tập thể dục, nghỉ ngơi đúng cách giúp chúng ta hồi sức và đổi mới. Sự nguy hiểm tập thể dục quá khó gây ra thương tích, Sự may rủi làm việc hãm mình quá sức làm cho ta có thể bỏ cuộc. Giải quyết cho cả hai là nghỉ ngơi. Trước khi bắt đầu việc hãm mình, chúng ta cần có phương pháp điều độ dưỡng sức và kiên tâm chịu đựng làm hết việc hãm mình đó. Chúng ta không thể nào ăn chay mỗi ngày và làm quá sức

mỗi lần. Cơ thể mình không cho phép điều đó. Anh chị em ăn chay không? Có thể không hơn một hay hai lần tuần. Anh chị em cầu nguyện không? Hầu hết mọi người không thể cầu nguyện cả ngày. Có thể một tràng mân côi và một việc tôn sùng khác. Anh chị em làm việc bác ái không? Không thể cho đi cả lợi tức. Có thể bố thí bằng phần mua cà phê qua cửa sổ hay món đồ sang trọng nho nhỏ. Tất cả việc hãm mình nho nhỏ này là khởi điểm tốt. Cũng vậy, chúng ta nên quan tâm đến cảm giác của mình. Hãm mình sẽ luôn gây ra cái gì đó không thoải mái, nhưng không hẳn đau đớn mỗi khi làm. Đây có thể là chúng ta hãm mình quá độ hay không dùng đủ thời gian dưỡng sức. Nếu anh chị em không cảm thấy thử thách đủ, thì đây là thời gian thêm việc hy sinh hãm mình. Thử xem cách hãm mình mới có thích hợp cho mình không. Anh chị em có thể linh hoạt cho hợp với cơ thể. Anh chị em không nên hy sinh hãm mình vượt bực trong khi đó sức khoẻ yếu kém hay đột nhiên quá bận rộn. Anh chị em có thể tham khảo và hội ý với người khác về ý định của mình và thích nghi đôi chút với họ mà chính họ cũng đang tìm sự mật thiết với Chúa Giêsu. Thật không thể nào tưởng tượng nổi sự khôn ngoan và sâu sắc mà tôi đã lãnh hội được từ những người hiểu biết do nhân đức của họ mà nhìn ra sự thiếu sót của mình.

Nếu đây là mùa chay đầu tiên mà anh chị em muốn hy sinh thật tình, hay quyết tâm trở lại việc hy sinh hãm mình trong

mùa chay này thì đây là vài điều căn bản. Đọc các giờ kinh phụng vụ sáng tối. Tham dự thứ Tư Lễ Tro, tham dự các Lễ Nghi Tuần Thánh và các Thánh Lễ Chúa Nhật. Ăn chay kiêng thịt, đặc biệt vào ngày thứ Tư Lễ Tro và thứ Sáu Tuần Thánh mà Giáo Hội đòi hỏi. Ăn chay là chỉ ăn một bữa no và hai bữa kia ít hơn.

Kiêng thịt trong ngày thứ Sáu mùa chay cặn kẽ hơn. Cố gắng làm việc bố thí cho người nghèo và bần cùng. Tâm sự với Chúa về những khả năng anh mà chị em sẵn có; nói về những người mà mình muốn giúp, và tâm sự với ai đó những ưu tư và lo âu mà anh chị em nhận thấy.

Giúp đỡ hội từ thiện hợp với tôn chỉ của mình. Hầu hết các xứ đạo đều có chương trình Chén Cơm Người Nghèo, đó là cơ hội giúp kẻ đói khát khắp nơi trên thế giới. Trong phạm vi nhỏ hơn thì có Hội Từ Thiện Giáo Phận để giúp người nghèo trong khu vực. Anh chị em và tôi đều không phải là siêu nhân nên không làm ai bị sốc cả. Điều hợp lý nhất cũng đừng coi mình như thế và chúng ta nên thích nghi với khả năng của mình. Hãy bắt đầu hy sinh bằng việc nhỏ và từ từ tiến thêm. Lắng nghe con tim và điều chỉnh cho hợp lý. Cùng chung tay chúng ta sẽ tạo ra mùa chay thánh thánh thiện nhất, xứng đáng là môn đệ của Chúa Giêsu. Xin anh chị em cầu nguyện cho tôi và tôi cũng cầu nguyện cho anh chị em.

Bản dịch tiếng Việt do Cha Lê Thành Tài, Cha Sở Thánh Giuse, Galliano BC

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 11

Comment

Pope Francis to diplomats: Polarization hurts the poor The Pope Speaks

Vatican City (CNA) In his annual address to diplomats recently, Pope Francis stressed that solidarity is needed in 2020 to overcome polarization for the sake of the poor, who suffer when the common good is disregarded.

“Greater polarization does not help to resolve the real and pressing problems of citizens, especially those who are poorest and most vulnerable, nor can violence, which for no reason can be employed as a means of dealing with political and social issues,” Pope Francis said in the Vatican’s Sala Regia.

The pope told diplomats accredited to the Holy See that peace and integral development are the principal aims of the Holy See’s diplomatic involvement in the world.

“Sadly, the new year does not seem to be marked by encouraging signs, as much as by heightened tensions and acts of violence,” Francis said.

“Particularly troubling are the signals coming from the entire region (the Middle East) following the heightening of tensions between Iran and the United States, which risk above all compromising the gradual process of rebuilding in Iraq, as well as setting the groundwork for a vaster conflict that all of us would want to avert,” he said.

The pope called for a more steadfast engagement of the international community in the Middle East, particularly in rebuilding war-torn Syria. He also decried the world’s indifference toward “the most serious humanitarian crisis in recent history” in Yemen.

He urged the international community to support African countries to “eliminate the scourge of terrorism that is causing more and more bloodshed in whole parts of Africa.”

“It is painful to witness, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Nigeria, continuing episodes of violence against innocent people, including many Christians persecuted and killed for their fidelity to the Gospel,” the pope said.

Looking ahead to 2020, Pope Francis said the upcoming 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations provides the opportunity to reform the multilateral diplomatic system, beginning with the UN, to make it more effective in the present geopolitical context.

“Rights are intrinsically grounded in human nature itself. Whenever the lexicon of international organizations loses a clear objective anchoring, one risks fostering estrangement rather than rapprochement between the members of the international community, with the consequent crisis of the multilateral system, which is now sadly evident to all,” he said.

Pope Francis said that the UN climate change conference in Madrid last month raised “serious concern about the will of the international community to confront with wisdom and effectiveness the phenomenon of global warming.”

He said the issue of climate change should not be “reduced to an elitist concern,” adding that the response of international politics to climate change has been “very weak.”

The pope stressed the need for education of young people to “form mature individuals capable of overcoming division and antagonism, and to restore the fabric of relationships for the sake of a more fraternal humanity” in many societies where solidarity is lacking.

“There is, in fact, a tendency, in many parts of the world, to be selfabsorbed, to defend acquired rights and privileges, and to view the world

12 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

within a narrow horizon that treats the elderly with indifference and no longer welcomes the newborn. The general aging of the world population, especially in the West, is a sad and emblematic example of this,” Francis said.

He said that 30 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, it is still easy to erect barriers.

“The Berlin Wall remains emblematic of a culture of division that alienates people from one another and opens the way to extremism and violence. We see this more and more in the hate speech widespread on the internet and in the social communications media. Rather than walls of hatred, we prefer bridges of reconciliation and solidarity; rather than what alienates, we prefer what draws people closer together,” he said.

Pope Francis said that he witnessed solidarity and signs of peace and reconciliation during his apostolic visit to Africa last year. In 2019, Pope Francis visited Panama, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Romania, Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Thailand, and finally Japan.

“A world without nuclear weapons is possible and necessary,” the pope told diplomats, repeating his message from his visits to Hiroshima and Nagasaki in November.

Pope Francis said that the Review Conference of the Treaty on the NonProliferation of Nuclear Weapons in New York in April and May will be critical to find consensus on ways to implement this international legal instrument.

“Hope requires courage. It means acknowledging that evil, suffering and death will not have the last word, and that even the most complex questions can and must be faced and resolved,” he said.

The 70th anniversary of the proclamation of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary this year “invites us to look ahead to the completion of our earthly journey to the day when justice and peace will be fully reestablished,” Pope Francis said. BC

Comment

Questions of Faith Father Wilmer Todd

Magical ashes?

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent and I was wondering what is the significance of the ashes.

Some ministers say, “Remembering you are dust and unto dust you shall return,” when applying the ashes while others say, “Repent and believe in the Gospel.” What do the blessed ashes really do?

Before I answer your question, I would like to point out the meaning of the Lenten season. Some people automatically say, “It is time to give up candy, alcohol or smoking.” That’s not the true spirit of Lent. Lent is a time for change and conversion. It’s a time to move our center of gravity from selfishness to others, from self-love to love of neighbor, from lust to love.

Lent gives us an opportunity to go into the desert with our Lord and to confront the demons within us – to ask the question, who or what are we really worshiping in life? Lent is a time to see if we really believe that the only real power in the world is love.

Lent is an opportunity to look at our priorities in life to see whether they are Jesus’ priorities. It’s an opportunity to examine our attitudes and see if we have “the mind of Christ.”

In the spiritual life as with all life, attitude is everything. Our actions follow our attitudes. If we have a bad attitude, we will do bad things. If we have a Christlike attitude, we will do Christlike things. So it is very important that we develop a Christian attitude based on Jesus’ teachings.

The ashes we receive on Ash

Wednesday are our pledge to change and become more Christlike. It’s like a pledge card we fill out when we are making a contribution to the church or other charitable organizations. That piece of paper is only as good as our follow-up. If we give the amount we pledged, then the piece of paper has meaning. If we don’t follow through, it’s meaningless.

So too are the ashes. We receive the blessed ashes as a pledge before God and the church that we are willing to join our fellow Christians in a 40day journey of conversion. Often when we hear the word “repent” or “be converted,” we think it applies to someone who no longer believes in God and has taken up a sinful life. People who attend church regularly, who pray frequently, who support of the work of the church, often dismiss this call as not applying to them.

However, conversion is a lifelong process for every Christian. Lent is a special time in which we focus as God’s family on conversion, changing ourselves. We all need to change. Our change is not just from something but a change to something. We need to change our self-centered ways of doing things to caring about others. We need to change our tendency to worry about “what’s in it for me” to how can I help the needy.

We need to change our need to have and buy things and take responsibility for others and the world in which we live. We need to change our attitudes of promoting war to promoting peace; from

destruction of the Earth to reverencing God’s creation; from despair to hope; from fear to faith; from self-hate to selflove. This includes the sinful things we do and our sins of omission.

The blessed ashes of themselves do not do anything. They are not magical.

Someone can pour a bowl of blessed ashes on our heads and if we are not willing to change our lives and become more Christlike, nothing happens.

Nothing!

We bless the ashes and distribute them to the faithful as a sign that we as a church community are willing to be converted. Our willingness to make a public commitment to be the person God wants us to be is a holy act. The Lenten formulas remind us of our need to change.

The United States Bishops remind us in Go and Make Disciples, “Conversion is the change of our lives that comes about through the power of the Holy Spirit . . . Unless we undergo conversion, we have not truly accepted the Gospel.”

May we all have a Christlike and blessed Lent! BC

Readers are encouraged to send their questions to our local Bayou Catholic columnists by email to bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org.

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 13

Reflections

Why are so many Catholics struggling with their eucharistic faith?

Readings Between the Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

“Just one-third of U.S. Catholics agree with their church that Eucharist is body, blood of Christ.” So read an Aug. 5, 2019, headline on the website of the Pew Research Center (pewresearch. org), a headline which has startled and disturbed people and generated a lot of conversation. Some of us may be asking, “How did we get to this point?”

The survey gave the respondents two choices regarding what they believed: 1) the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ or 2) the bread and wine are symbols. The survey indicates that among Catholics who attend Mass weekly or more, 63 percent believe the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ.

But of that 63 percent only 58 percent said they knew the church’s teaching on transubstantiation. Thirty-seven percent of weekly Mass attenders selected the option that the bread and wine are symbols. Fourteen percent of this group admitted not knowing the transubstantiation doctrine. For those who attended Mass either monthly or yearly, 25 percent selected answer one above and 75 percent selected answer two. For those who seldom or never attended Mass the corresponding numbers were 13 percent and 87 percent.

On the surface the survey shows that the more frequently people attended Mass, the more likely they were to believe in what answer one says. In addition, the percentage of people who understand the church’s doctrine on transubstantiation, even among those

who attend Mass weekly is curiously low (only 58 percent). Surprisingly, more Catholics who chose answer two above and attended Mass between monthly and never, claimed to know the church’s teaching on transubstantiation than those who chose answer two and attended weekly.

There are some theological concerns with the wording of the questions.

People were given a choice between saying they believed the bread and wine became Christ’s Body and Blood or the bread and wine are a symbol.

In other words, the offering of the choices suggests that answer two is in opposition to answer one. That is unfortunate. To explain I will quote liturgist Msgr. Kevin Irwin, a professor of liturgy at the Catholic University of America, who commented on a similar survey in 1994.

“When you put the word ‘change’ and ‘symbolic reminders’ in opposition, I think you are separating what in our theological tradition is really inseparable ... for a good part of our tradition on eucharistic teaching the terms ‘symbol’ and ‘sign’ have been very important. The church uses them to make sure that the presence of Christ in the Eucharist is understood to be qualitatively different from the normal, physical notion of presence that we use.

In effect, the church’s teaching about the Eucharist was and is always couched in sacramental and ‘sign’ language.

Therefore, when I read that in this poll one had to choose between ‘change’ and the very useful terms ‘symbolic’ and ‘reminders,’ then I question the

14 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

usefulness of the poll itself” (Kevin W. Irwin, Responses to 101 Questions on the Mass, pp. 155-156).

Perhaps the choices people had to make skewed the numbers. Still the poll probably does alert us that the issue of Catholics’ understanding that Christ is really and truly present in the eucharistic elements needs to be addressed.

Catechism of the Catholic Church No. 1376 explains transubstantiation in this way: “By the consecration of the bread and wine there takes place a change of the whole substance of the bread into the substance of the body of Christ our Lord and of the whole substance of the wine into the substance of his blood.”

The term “substance” is a philosophical term. Pope Saint Paul VI in his encyclical letter, Mystery of Faith No. 46 explains the terms “substance” and “transubstantiation” as follows: “For what now lies beneath the aforementioned species is not what was there before, but something completely different; and not just in the estimation of church belief but in reality, since once the substance or nature of the bread and wine has been changed into the body and blood of Christ, nothing remains of the bread and the wine except for the species—beneath which Christ is present whole and entire in his physical ‘reality,’ corporeally present, although not in the manner in which bodies are in a place.” So what is changed is the “nature” of the bread and wine. However, the new substance (which is the Body and Blood of Christ) retains the sensible characteristics of bread and wine.

a

Reflections

The article I read regarding the survey does not explain why Catholics struggle to believe the change of substance that happens to the eucharistic elements. I can venture a guess at a few possibilities.

First of all, among the various Christian denominations there are different teachings about Christ’s presence in the Eucharist. For Lutherans and those churches influenced by the reformer John Calvin, Christ is present along with the bread and wine in the memorial of the Lord’s Supper, but the bread and wine remain bread and wine. Other Christian Churches might hold that through sharing the eucharistic meal congregants simply call to mind Christ and his saving action on their behalf, but there is no change that happens to the elements. Some Catholics may have been exposed to these doctrines and for some reason opted for them.

The modern worldview may also

affect people’s decision as to whether or not they believe in transubstantiation.

Substance is an abstract, intangible and unmeasurable concept. For some, a concept which cannot be proven in a way that is perceptible by the senses is non-existent. Therefore, if there is no such thing as substance there can be no transubstantiation.

The purpose of this article is to draw your attention to an issue regarding our eucharistic faith. Since this column is supposed to deal with Scripture, in a few succeeding articles I plan to explore what Scripture says about the Eucharist.

However, a caution is in order. The Scriptures provide a good foundation for our eucharistic teaching, and a lot can be gleaned from them on this topic.

However, they do not expound the fullness of our eucharistic doctrine that has been developed since the Scriptures were written. As Catholics, though, we believe in a continuity between Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. It

would be good between this article and my next for the reader to review the church’s eucharistic doctrine. BC

Reflection Questions v How would you explain what the Eucharist is and your experience of it to a person who never heard of it before? v How would you engage in discussion with a person who was raised as a Catholic believing in the Eucharist, but is now questioning the real presence of Christ in it? v Read Catechism of the Catholic Church Nos. 1324 to 1344. How do these paragraphs reaffirm your eucharistic faith? What new do they teach you about it? What questions do you have about the material there?

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WWW.FLEETSUPPLYWHSE.COM February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 15

Scripture Readings and a listing of Feast days and saints

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1 February Weekday 2 Samuel 12:1-7a, 10-17 Mark 4:35-41

2 Feast of the Presentation of the Lord Malachi 3:1-4 Hebrews 2:14-18 Luke 2:22-40

3 Weekday 2 Samuel 15:1314, 30; 16:5-13 Mark 5:1-20

9

10

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Isaiah 58:7-10 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 Matthew 5:13-16

Memorial of Saint Scholastica, virgin 1 Kings 8:1-7, 9-13 Mark 6:53-56

16

17

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Sirach 15:15-20 1 Corinthians 2:610 Matthew 5:17-37

23

Weekday James 1:1-11 Mark 8:11-13

24

Seventh Sunday in Weekday James 3:13-18 Ordinary Time Mark 9:14-29 Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18 1 Corinthians 3:1623 Matthew 5:38-48

4 Weekday 2 Samuel 18:910, 14b, 24-25a, 30—19:3 Mark 5:21-43

11 Weekday 1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30 Mark 7:1-13

18 Weekday James 1:12-18 Mark 8:14-21

25 Weekday James 4:1-10 Mark 9:30-37

16 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

5 Memorial of Saint Agatha, virgin and martyr 2 Samuel 24:2, 9-17 Mark 6:1-6

12 Weekday 1 Kings 10:1-10 Mark 7:14-23

19 Weekday James 1:19-27 Mark 8:22-26

26 Ash Wednesday: Day of Fast and Abstinence Joel 2:12-18 2 Corinthians 5:20—6:2 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

6 Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and companions, martyrs 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12 Mark 6:7-13

13 Weekday 1 Kings 11:4-13 Mark 7:24-30

20 Weekday James 2:1-9 Mark 8:27-33

27 Thursday after Ash Wednesday Deuteronomy 30:15-20 Luke 9:22-25

7 Weekday Sirach 47:2-11 Mark 6:14-29

14 Memorial of Saints Cyril, monk, and Methodius, bishop 1 Kings 11:29-32, 12:19 Mark 7:31-37

21

8 Weekday 1 Kings 3:4-13 Mark 6:30-34

15 Weekday 1 Kings 12:26-32, 13:33-34 Mark 8:1-10

22

Weekday Feast of the Chair James 2:14-24, 26 of Saint Peter the Mark 8:34—9:1 Apostle 1 Peter 5:1-4 Matthew 16:13-19

28 Friday after Ash Wednesday Isaiah 58:1-9a Matthew 9:14-15

29 Saturday after Ash Wednesday Isaiah 58:9b-14 Luke 5:27-32

February

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Church Life

18 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Church Life

‘Come As You Are’ South Lafourche parents and youth gather as one body One hundred eighty youth and their parents from church parishes of the South Lafourche area which includes Our Lady of the Rosary, Larose; Sacred Heart, Cut Off; St. Joseph, Galliano; Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Golden Meadow and Our Lady of the Isle, Grand Isle, in grades 9-11 gathered recently at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church for a retreat entitled “Ignite: Come As You Are.” The youth and their parents attended presentations given by Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs, Father Joey Lirette, Deacon Jeff Pitre, Brian Butler, executive director and co-founder of Dumb Ox Ministries; Seminarian Nick LeCompte, Kristen Daigle and Austin Tipton. The retreat was designed to encourage the youth to open their hearts to the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The day began with Mass and ended with adoration.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 19

Church Life

20 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Church Life

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration Bishop Shelton J. Fabre was the main celebrant of Masses at St. Lucy Church parish in Houma and St. Luke the Evangelist Church parish in Thibodaux recently for the preservation of peace and justice in remembrance of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Msgr. Cletus (Frank) Egbi concelebrated.

Deacon Martin Dickerson assisted.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 21

Heavenly Recipes

Savanna Bourg

Savanna Cooks a:

QUICK FIX MEAL Story and Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

This month’s heavenly recipe, chicken orzo soup, comes from St. Louis, Bayou Blue, parishioner Savanna Bourg. The 17-year-old student says that she can remember cooking at an early age. “I love to cook. It is fun for me. I can remember cooking when I was seven years old. My mom would let me fix breakfast. That’s how it all began for me.”

Savanna says that she learned a lot about cooking from watching her dad cook. “My dad loves to cook. He is a tow boat captain. He also enjoys cooking on the boat for the crew.

My mom is the one who cooks mostly at home. She enjoys cooking wild game,” says Savanna.

Savanna, who is home-schooled, lives with her parents Grace and Chad Bourg. She attends E Learning Academy in Houma and is currently in her senior year. “The home schooling gives me the opportunity to do what I like to do and get an education. I am a first grade CCD teacher at St. Louis. I also work at Acadian Appraisal. I am able to go to school at my own pace and still work and manage church activities.”

The student attended the latest NCYC Conference in Indianapolis, is active in the Ladies Auxiliary at St. Louis and helps cook for the annual Lenten luncheons, dinner events and parish anniversaries. “I have gotten to know many people through the parish ministries in the church.

Volunteering and giving your time is a great way to see so many wonderful people.”

Savanna is unsure what she will do after graduation. “I might continue working in the appraisal field. I enjoy that. I am also considering interior design or real estate.”

Savanna is a confident, well-grounded young person who defies the image of a typical teenager. “I am not on social media. I feel like I am in a place where I don’t have to follow 22 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Chicken Orzo Soup INGREDIENTS: 2 tbsps. olive oil 1/2 cup onion, diced 1/2 cup celery, diced 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper 2-32 oz. chicken broth 1 cup water 1 rotisserie chicken, deboned and shredded 1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta 1 tbsp. chopped parsley

DIRECTIONS: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Saute’ the onion, celery, carrots and garlic with salt and pepper until tender. Once tender, add chicken broth, water and chicken. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Add orzo and parsley; allow to cook for 15 minutes.

what others my age are doing. I like to be stable and do what I like. There is so much pressure on teenagers in today’s world. I am living my life in a way that I hope makes my parents proud of my choices.” BC

The collection will be held February 8 and 9, 2020 Thank you for your generosity.

Youth

in action Jacob Lee School: E.D. White Catholic High School, Thibodaux Grade: 8th Church parish: St. Joseph Co-Cathedral, Thibodaux Describe your family unit: Crystal, mother; Robby, father; Ethan (10th grade, EDW) and Jonathan (6th grade, St. Joseph), brothers Favorite Hobby: Playing soccer and baseball Favorite Movie: The Waterboy Favorite TV Show: The Office Favorite Genre of Music: Rock

If Jesus asked you to pray for two things that would make the world a better place, what would you pray for?

If Jesus asked me to pray for two things to make the world a better place, I would first pray for peace in several areas. An end to war among nations would solve so many problems and allow countries to help one another. Peace among government leaders and politicians in America would also allow agencies and political parties to work together

rather than against one another.

Peace within families would eliminate unnecessary arguments and fighting with the people we love the most.

Secondly, I would pray for people to be happy. However, some things need to happen first. I would ask for an end to homelessness so that everyone has a place to live with items they need for their home, such as appliances,

24 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

furniture and clothing. I would ask for an end to hunger so that people could be nourished and healthy. To be truly happy, people need to know God and have faith. I would ask that more opportunities be available for people to learn about their faith so that they can live out their faith each day. BC

February Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons and Seminarians

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1 February Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Very Rev. Jay Baker

Rev. Paul Birdsall

Rev. Toto Buenaflor Jr.

Rev. Duc Bui

Rev. Joseph Chacko

Deacon Timothy Vedros

Rev. Cody Chatagnier

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

Rev. Carl Collins

Rev. Van Constant

Rev. Robert-Joel Cruz

Seminarian Rusty Bruce

Very Rev. Vicente DeLa Cruz, V.F.

Rev. Dean Danos

Rev. Sovi Devasia

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

Msgr. Cletus Egbi

Deacon Timothy White

Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait, V.G.

Rev. Gregory Fratt

Very Rev. Alex Gaudet

Deacon Douglas Authement, retired

Rev. Rholando Grecia

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

Rev. Brice Higginbotham

Rev. Rajasekar Karumelnathan

Deacon Daniel Bascle, retired

Rev. Noas Kerketta

Rev. Thomas Kuriakose

Rev. Baby Kuruvilla

Seminarian Stephen Castille

Daily Prayer for Clergy and Religious Lord Jesus, hear our prayer for the spiritual renewal of bishops, priests, deacons, brothers, sisters, lay ministers and seminarians of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. We praise You for giving their ministry to the Church. In these days, renew them with the gifts of Your Spirit.

You once opened the Holy Scriptures to Your disciples when You walked on this earth. Now renew Your ordained and chosen ones with the truth and power of Your Word.

In Eucharist you gave Your disciples renewed life and hope. Nourish Your consecrated ones with Your own Body and Blood. Help them to imitate in their lives the death and resurrection they celebrate around Your altar.

Give them enthusiasm for the Gospel, zeal for the salvation of all people, courage in leadership and humility in service.

Give them Your love for one another and for all their brothers and sisters in You. For You love them, Lord Jesus, and we love and pray for them in Your Holy Name, today especially for _______________________. Amen.

Sponsored by:

of the Word 506 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA • marianservantsoftheword@gmail.com

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 25

Commentary

Reconciliation A deacon’s wife’s confessions Angie Lefevre

I can remember, years ago, the thought of going to confession would turn my stomach. Why on earth would I want to think about all the bad things I’ve done and all the people I’ve hurt?

Then to actually say them out loud to a priest! He’s going to know that I’m an awful person! So, what do normal people do with an unpleasant task? They put if off until another day. Then those days flow into months, then years. There are periods of my life when I did not receive the sacrament of reconciliation for over a year. The thing is, there are so many good excuses: n My church only offers confession once a week. n There’s always a line. n I’m not prepared. n I forgot to go because I was busy talking to my friends before Mass. n It’s painful and I don’t want to do it. n I don’t want to cry in front of the priest.

I can honestly say I’ve used all of these excuses. But the thing is, we should be reflecting on our sins and

privately asking God for forgiveness every day in our prayers. This way, if our sins are always on our mind, we can work on decreasing them. Find a good examination of conscience pamphlet and keep it handy. I privately mark off all the things I want to confess and bring it with me into the confessional. This way, I can keep track of my sins and try to reduce the number of sins each time I go to confession. Now, this is not a quick fix, in fact, there are a few sins that may never leave my list. Thankfully, I’ve made progress on a couple of them since I began monthly confessions.

Now, the difficult part – facing a priest in the confessional! It’s really not that bad. I’ve said some terrible things in there and the priest still likes me. I have cried because I was so embarrassed by my actions. Now I’m sure you are asking yourself “why would I put myself through this torture?”

The answer is simple – forgiveness.

In the confessional we are cleansed – we get a fresh start. My husband and I always say we are shiny after confession because we are so clean. But let me tell you, it doesn’t take long to get dirty again! I usually have some dirt on me before I leave the church! Usually it’s inattentiveness, pride or judging others.

But I’ll keep working on those and hopefully I can scratch another sin off my master list!

For the last year I have tried to go to confession once a month. Of course when the time is approaching, I get apprehensive. But I always feel better

Your future just got a whole lot CLEARER

afterwards. Going to confession once a month is working for me; I feel like I can remember most of my sins from the past month. Waiting six months is a different story … . I’m sure I missed a few things when my confessions were only during Advent and Lent. Our confessions were so rare that my father-in-law would ask us to receive the sacrament as our gift to him for his birthday! (Not a bad idea if you want to encourage someone to go back to confession.)

So here’s a quick guide to help you if it’s been a while since you went into the confessional. The hardest part is walking through the door. Begin your confession with the sign of the cross, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Forgive me Father for I have sinned, it has been ____ weeks/months/years since my last confession.” If you do not know your confessor, you should give him a little background information, such as: Single, married, parent, separated.

Then continue with “I would like to confess … .” Then the priest will give you some advice and penance to complete. Finally, you will end with an Act of Contrition followed by absolution!

Don’t be surprised if people comment on how clean and shiny you look when you walk out of the confessional.

(Angie Lefevre is the wife of Deacon James Lefevre, who was ordained to the permanent diaconate in May 2018.

They are parishioners of St. Bernadette Church parish in Houma.) BC

Keith Kellum, M.D. Nano Zeringue, M.D. Jody Simon, M.D. Janie Tran, O.D.

446 Corporate Dr., Houma, LA 70360 | Fax: (985) 868-4190 | Email: tlevron@southerneyeinst.com 900 Canal Blvd., Suite 3, Thibodaux, LA 70301 | Fax: 985-448-1276 | Email: tlevron@southerneyeinst.com 26 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Book Reviews

Reading With Raymond Raymond Saadi

Talking to Strangers

By Malcolm Gladwell Little, Brown $30 Gladwell begins and ends with the tragic story of Sandra Bland and in between introduces some of the most notorious headline grabbers in recent history: Hitler, who cleverly fooled Neville Chamberlain into believing he really wanted peace. (He actually meant a “piece” of every country.) More contemporary strangers and scandals include Bernie Madoff, creator of a bigger Ponzi scheme than Ponzi himself; the full story of Penn State’s Jerry Sandusky’s pedophilia scandal, and more. It’s a fascinating and revealing look at people and their stories we only thought we knew. BC

The Night Fire

By Michael Connelly Little, Brown $29

The Red Lotus

By Chris Bohjalian Doubleday $27.95 Austin shows up at an ER on a Saturday night, with a bullet in his arm. Nurse Alexis removes the bullet, and, just like in a fairy tale, they fall in love. Austin takes Alexis to Vietnam where he hopes to find the place where his father was wounded and his uncle killed. Soon after they arrive at their hotel, he goes on a solo bike ride and never returns. While she waits, frightened by his disappearance, Alexis begins calling friends and relatives, and surprisingly learns that her lover is a liar. Determined to find the truth and the whereabouts of Austin, she begins an investigation and what she finds is shocking and dangerous. BC

Harry Bosch is once again attempting to solve a case long gone cold, this time the death of an old friend and mentor who took a murder book with him when he retired from the force. His widow gives it to Bosch thinking he would solve the case, but Bosch soon believes her husband took it to keep anyone at all from solving it. Renee Ballard, his partner, assists from her position on the police force and Bosch’s half-brother attorney, Mickey Haller, adds a tense courtroom trial scene. BC

mobituaries Great Lives Worth Reliving

By Mo Rocca Simon and Schuster $29.99 Whether you get your Mo from CBS’s Sunday Morning show or his No. 1 podcast, here’s more Mo gathered from “the sweeping drama of a life packed into a few inches of print,” his description of an obituary. He covers the obits of politicians to trees, Take Thomas Paine for example who stirred Washington’s dispirited army with the words from his pamphlet The American Crisis, “These are the times that try men’s souls … .” His obituary never called him a patriot nor was his name on the Declaration or Constitution.

Readers will learn, and laugh, page after page. Enjoy it. BC

What you’ve got is What you want event if it hurts By adam e. jukes Free Association $20

Jukes coined the term “The Mad Hypothesis” for people who reflect each other as monsters by repeatedly articulating how bad they each think the other is. At its simplest, it’s expressed as: “You are responsible for everything that is wrong with your relationship including any behavior of your partner which you use to justify, excuse, or in any other way account for your own behavior toward him/her or the world in general.” In other words, it may very well be you who said the word that triggered your partner’s tirade. BC February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 27

Announcement

Racial Sobriety: Becoming the Change You Want to See Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, Christine Streams, and Robert Gorman have rescheduled the Racial Sobriety: Becoming the Change You Want to See workshop for Saturday, Feb. 29 from 9 a.m. – Noon at the diocesan Pastoral Center in Schriever. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. for breakfast, snacks and coffee.

According to Father Clarence Williams C.P.P.S., Ph.D., who developed the workshop and certifies facilitators, the workshop “offers a map for the journey from the ‘stinking thinking’ of racisms to healthy relations in the human family, locally and globally. The aim of the program is to not to make bad people good, but to make good people better! It’s called racial sobriety because we all need to recover from a culture that avoids the conversation about race due to fear, ignorance and guilt. Racial sobriety requires a selfawareness to our interactions with

people of other races to examine our prejudices regarding another’s racial ‘caste’ rather than their membership in the human family. Racial sobriety is witnessing to ourselves and others that our thinking, feeling and acting reflects our commitment to seeing each person as members of the same human family.”

“The Racial Sobriety workshop will assist us in our efforts to respond to and overcome the evil and sin of racism as it continues to manifest itself among us,” says Bishop Fabre, chairperson of the USCCB Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism. “I welcome the opportunity that this workshop will provide for attendees to constructively discuss and dialogue about ridding ourselves and our society of racism.”

Participants in the workshop can expect to explore, through personal reflection and group discussion, the meaning of terms such as “the

racialized self, the stages of recovery from racisms and the F.I.G. complex.”

The workshop will help good people become better at seeing others as being entitled to respect and discovering the social and cultural challenges that block us from living this way. This is an opportunity for spiritual growth and a chance to develop our right relationships with the neighbors and strangers we encounter daily who could be, to each of us, the face of God. This workshop is a follow-up to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s Listening Session on Racism that was held in March 2019 at the Pastoral Center. It is free and open to everyone, but attendance is limited. Preregistration is required by visiting https://htdiocese.org/day-of-racialsobriety, calling Very Rev. Alex Gaudet at (985) 850-3124 or by e-mailing bishopsec@htdiocese.org. BC

It’s your plan.

Let’s make it happen.

banksynergy.com | 985.851.2217 28 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Announcement

Women’s Giving Circle kicks off spring season Catholic Foundation Update Amy Ponson

Spring is right around the corner and the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana is excited to start the spring season with love and joy in our hearts as we launch our second Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle. Our inaugural year for the Giving Circle blossomed beyond our beliefs, bringing together more than 100 women to learn about the needs in our diocese focusing on

women, children and families, and directly making an impact through grants for select nonprofits.

One of Mother Teresa’s most famous quotes reads, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” This quote has inspired our giving circle in many ways. One in particular is the purpose of inviting women of every age, race, nationality and background together as one community to make an impact.

The voice of the women in our diocese is powerful and together we are taking steps to touch the lives of women, children and families. We encourage any woman who is interested in getting involved to join us.

We will kick off the spring season with a Valentine’s Tea with Bishop Shelton J. Fabre at Charlotte Bollinger’s Barn,

8847 Hwy. 308 in Lockport on Feb. 13 from 2-4 p.m. You do not have to be a member to attend, rather anyone who is interested in learning more and possibly getting involved is welcome to join! Please RSVP to (985) 850-3112 or aportier@htdiocese.org. We are excited to welcome new members this year!

In order to become a member there are several different levels to consider.

All membership levels are listed online at www.catholicfoundationsl.org and your gift can be mailed to the Catholic Foundation at P.O. Box 505 Schriever, LA 70395.

For more information about the Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle, please visit https://www. catholicfoundationsl.org. Please call (985) 850-3122 or e-mail aportier@ htdiocese.org to join. BC

Life is great ~

Get busy living.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Agnes Bitature

Independent Living Community

1201 Cardinal Drive ~ Thibodaux, LA 70301 (985) 446-9050 ~ www.stjosephmanor.org

abitature@htdiocese.org 985-876-0490

For More Information Contact: Natalie Barbera natalieb@stjosephmanor.org

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 29

Announcement

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Pictured at the check presentation for the new diocesan financial management system are from left, Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait, V.G.; Alyce Danos, Very Rev. Alex Gaudet, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre; Very Rev. Mark Toups, V.G.; Rene Danos David and Jon Toups, diocesan chief operating and financial officer.

Danos Family Foundation grants new financial management system for the diocese The Mary and Al Danos Family Foundation recently granted the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux $150,000 for the purchase and implementation of a new financial management system to replace accounting software that is nearing 20 years old.

“Our software has served our needs well for almost two decades, but the accounting environment demands something even more efficient and user friendly, and this wonderful gift will allow us to better serve all

of our church parishes, schools and ministries,” says April LeBouef, director of Finance and Accounting.

Amy Ponson, executive director of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana, was aware that the diocesan Finance and Accounting Office was seeking to modernize their accounting system and approached the Danos Family Foundation.

“We, as a family, are so blessed to be able to help every church, school and organization in our diocese to be more efficient,” says Rene Danos

30 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

David, daughter of Mary and Al Danos. “We love the direction our diocese and the Catholic Foundation are heading and we are excited to do our part.”

LeBouef indicated that the Office of Finance and Accounting is currently analyzing the needs of the diocese and working with the church parishes, schools and ministries with the goal of selecting a new system

by April 2020. After assessment and selection, implementation should begin by October 2020. BC

Seminarian Education Burses What is a seminarian burse/endowment fund?

A seminarian burse/endowment fund is an invested sum of money where the interest is used in perpetuity to help fund the education of men to the priesthood in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux.

How does someone establish a seminarian burse/endowment fund?

Very simply, a burse/endowment fund may be established and

named for anyone you choose, be it family, friend, bishop, priest, deacon, religious, etc.

Who do I contact to contribute to or establish a fund?

To contribute to or establish a burse/endowment fund, send funds to the Pastoral Center, Attn: Catholic Foundation, P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395 or contact the Catholic Foundation office at 985-850-3116 or aponson@htdiocese.org for more information.

Completed Burses and CFSL Named Endowment Funds

December 2019 Burse Contributions

Note: Numbers stipulate the amount of completed burses.*

Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. C. Thomas Bienvenu Harry Booker Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux (3)* Mr. Eledier Broussard Rev. Adrian J. Caillouet Rev. James Louis Caillouet Bishop L. Abel Caillouet Judge & Mrs. L.P. Caillouet Msgr. Lucien J. Caillouet Abdon J. & Ada B. Callais Harold & Gloria Callais Family Paul A. Callais Peter W. Callais Vincent & Fannie Cannata Minor Sr. & Lou Ella Cheramie Maude & Edith Daspit Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis family (3)* Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis C. Remie Duplantis Marie Elise Duplantis Warren J. Harang Jr. Msgr. Raphael C. Labit Msgr. Francis J. Legendre Rev. Charles Menard Dr. & Mrs. M.V. Marmande & Family

Donald Peltier Sr. (3)* Harvey Peltier (30)* Richard Peltier The Peltier Foundation (5) Orleans & Louella Pitre Msgr. Joseph Wester Robert R. Wright Jr. Rev. Kermit Trahan St. Bernadette Men’s Club Diocesan Knights of Columbus Leighton Delahaye Mrs. Shirley Conrad Bishop Shelton J. Fabre Elizabeth Hebert Callais Family Fund Rev. Joseph Tu Tran Society of St. Joseph (2) Endowment Fund - $119,136.90 James J Buquet Jr. Julius & Marie Pauline St. Amant Elie & Dot Klingman Bishop Sam Jacobs Endowment-$32,840.43 Giardina Family Foundation Sem. Endowment-$4,337.62

James J. Buquet, Jr. Family Sem. Endowment-$27,979.95 Diocesan Seminarian Endowment-$3,502,699.11 Mary and Al Danos Foundation Sem. Endowment-$38,621.30 Msgr. Amedee Sem. Endowment-$314,838.43 The Peltier Foundation-$14,482.97 Leo & Ethel Hebert Jane and John Dean Sidney J. & Lydie C. Duplantis Msgr. Stanislaus Manikowski Leon “Ponoke” and Marlene Champagne Sem. Endowment-$2,225.00 Society of St. Joseph-$100 Father Patrick Riviere Sem. Endowment-$27,018.24 Parker Conrad Sem. Education-$15.000.00 Father Brett Lapeyrouse Sem. Education-$3,000.00

Warren J. Harang Jr. No. 2 ......................................................$200.00 Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier ......................................................$200.00 Msgr. William Koninkx ......................................................$200.00

Open Burses with Balance as of December 31, 2019 Donald Peltier Sr. No. 4 ........................................$13,000.00 Joseph Strada Memorial ......................................$12,642.63 Msgr. Raphael C. Labit No. 2 ............................ $11,560.00 Claude & Lucy Mahler Family ............................ $11,400.00 Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier ............................... $11,100.00 Joseph Waitz Sr. ......................................................$11,000.00 Harvey Peltier No. 31 ............................................$10,486.91 Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis No. 2 ................... $10,000.00 C. Remie Duplantis No. 2 .....................................$10,000.00 Marie Elise Duplantis No. 2 ................................ $10,000.00 Maude & Edith Daspit No. 2 .............................. $10,000.00 Msgr. George A. Landry .......................................$10,000.00 Msgr. William Koninkx .............................................$8,100.00 Catholic Daughters ....................................................$7,080.00 Rev. Victor Toth ..........................................................$7,000.00 Msgr. Francis Amedee .............................................$6,850.00 Rev. Gerard Hayes .....................................................$6,686.00 Brides of the Most Blessed Trinity ......................$6,598.00 Rev. Peter Nies ............................................................$6,000.00 Rev. Guy Zeringue .....................................................$6,000.00 Mr. & Mrs. Love W. Pellegrin ................................$5,000.00 Anonymous No. 2 ......................................................$5,000.00 Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis Family No. 4 .........$5,000.00 Rev. William M. Fleming .........................................$5,000.00 Mrs. Ayres A. Champagne ......................................$5,000.00 Rev. Kasimir Chmielewski .......................................$4,839.00 Joseph “Jay” Fertitta ..................................................$4,450.00 Rev. Henry Naquin ....................................................$4,311.00

Anawin Community ..................................................$4,200.00 Harry Booker No. 2 ...................................................$4,138.00 Msgr. James Songy ...................................................$4,075.00 Kelly Curole Frazier ....................................................$3,610.96 Mr. & Mrs. John Marmande ..................................$3,500.00 J. R. Occhipinti .............................................................$3,400.00 Preston & Gladys Webre ........................................$3,400.00 Mr. & Mrs. Galip Jacobs ..........................................$3,060.00 St. Jude ...........................................................................$3,000.00 Warren J. Harang Jr. No. 2 .....................................$3,000.00 Diocesan Knights of Columbus No. 2 ...............$2,894.62 Rev. Peter H. Brewerton ..........................................$2,600.00 Willie & Emelda St. Pierre ......................................$2,000.00 Rev. John Gallen .........................................................$1,950.00 Rev. H.C. Paul Daigle ................................................$1,900.00 Deacon Connely Duplantis ....................................$1,700.00 Alfrances P. Martin ....................................................$1,650.00 Msgr. Francis J. Legendre No. 2 ...........................$1,645.00 Rev. Robert J. Sevigny ..............................................$1,600.00 Jacob Marcello ............................................................$1,600.00 Rev. Hubert C. Broussard ........................................$1,550.00 Judge Louis & Shirley R. Watkins .......................$1,550.00 Msgr. Emile J. Fossier ...............................................$1,545.00 Ronnie Haydel .............................................................$1,535.00 Dr. William Barletta Sr. .............................................$1,525.00 Deacon Robert Dusse’ .............................................$1,450.00 Rev. Anthony Rousso ...............................................$1,300.00 Msgr. John L. Newfield ............................................$1,200.00

Dean Joseph Chiasson .............................................$1,200.00 Rev. Joseph Tu Tran No. 2 ......................................$1,094.00 Msgr. John G. Keller ..................................................$1,050.00 Rev. Clemens Schneider ..........................................$1,000.00 Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux No. 4 ....................$1,000.00 Edna W. DiSalvo .........................................................$1,000.00 Bernice Harang ...........................................................$1,000.00 Deacon Willie Orgeron ............................................... $900.00 Ruby Pierce ...................................................................... $800.00 Deacon Roland Dufrene ............................................ $750.00 Juliette & Eugene Wallace ........................................ $700.00 Deacon Edward J. Blanchard .................................... $700.00 Deacon Raymond LeBouef ....................................... $550.00 Paul & Laura Duet ....................................................... $550.00 Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Cannata ................................... $500.00 Robert Walsh .................................................................. $500.00 Anne Veron Aguirre ..................................................... $380.00 Deacon Harold Kurtz ................................................... $300.00 Richard Peltier No. 2 .................................................... $300.00 Claude Bergeron ........................................................... $250.00 Rev. Michael Finnegan ................................................ $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Naquin ......................................... $150.00 Deacon Pedro Pujals ................................................... $100.00 Rev. Warren Chassaniol .............................................. $100.00 Deacon Eldon Frazier .....................................................$50.00 Deacon Nick Messina .....................................................$50.00 Grant J. Louviere ...............................................................$50.00

Overall Seminarian Burses Total: $1,759,443.02 ~ CFSL Seminarian Endowments Total: $4,271,757.76 February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 31

Announcement

2020 Catholic Charismatic Healing Conference March 27-29 in Metairie The annual Southern Regional Conference of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, “Thy Kingdom Come,” scheduled for March 27-29, will be held at the Copeland Tower Suites and Conference Center in Metairie.

Conference speakers include the following: Sister Briege McKenna, an Irish nun with a worldwide ministry of praying for healing for the past 50 years; Father John Gordon, a popular conference speaker from the Archdiocese of Newark; Father Beau Charbonnet, pastor, dynamic preacher, youth leader and musician; Jean and Janice Charbonnet, teachers on marriage and family; Danny Loar of Baton Rouge, with a powerful healing testimony; Alex Lorio, youth leader, high school teacher and track coach. Others featured will be international speakers and authors Patti Mansfield, Deacon Larry Oney and Andi Oney.

Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond encourages attendance at this event

with these words: “I am pleased to invite you to the Southern Regional Conference of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in the Archdiocese of New Orleans. The Conference is a sacred opportunity to gather in prayer, conversation and reflection on our call to discipleship. In order to truly be open to the movement of the Holy Spirit,

we need to journey together in faith. Your theme, ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ reminds us of the need to open wide our hearts to the Spirit that we may be led to know God’s will and live for his kingdom on earth. May we continue to pray for his kingdom to come into our hearts.”

The conference begins Friday, March 27 at 7 p.m. and concludes Sunday, March 29, with an 11 a.m. Mass. Everyone is welcome to attend the Conference for a single session or for the full weekend. On Friday at 3:30 p.m., there will be a pre-conference Mass of Intercession with Father John Gordon, a Conference speaker, as celebrant and homilist.

The Joyful Noise music ministry, led

by Lynn Mondt, which has provided music at the Conference for over 25 years, will lead music. Also, Sister Briege McKenna has gifted CCRNO with a large Divine Mercy Image from Poland that will be venerated on stage during the Conference.

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32 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Announcement

The opening session of the Conference will include a greeting by Archbishop Aymond, praise and worship led by Deacon Larry Oney, and the keynote address and prayer for healing by Sister Briege McKenna.

The session Saturday, March 28, will begin with 9 a.m. Mass celebrated by Father Beau Charbonnet. There will be a healing testimony by Danny Loar and a talk by Alex Lorio on “The Baptism in the Spirit in my Life.”

On Saturday, from 2-5 p.m. in the main ballroom, two workshops are scheduled. The first is entitled, “Give God Permission,” by Jean and Janice Charbonnet. At 3 p.m., there will be a skit by the CCRNO Youth Ministry. At 3:15 p.m., Father John Gordon will lead a workshop entitled, “The Kingdom of God Does Not Consist in Talk but in Power,” followed by a prayer for empowerment by the Holy Spirit.

The Saturday night session will feature praise and worship led by

Andi Oney and a sharing by Patti Mansfield entitled, “Mary, Pass in Front.” There will then be a talk by Sister Briege McKenna on “Mary and the Holy Spirit,” followed by a prayer for healing.

On Sunday morning at 9 a.m., there will be a talk by Sister Briege entitled, “Miracles Do Happen,” the title of her best-selling book, followed by a eucharistic healing service during which Sister Briege will pray.

The procession and benediction will be conducted by Father Bill Henry.

Father John Gordon will be celebrant and homilist of the Mass, which will begin at 11 a.m. The Conference will conclude before lunch.

Seating is limited and early registration is encouraged. Discounts are available for pre-registration. No pre-registration is needed for single sessions or the Saturday afternoon family session. All priests, religious brothers and sisters, deacons and

their families are invited to attend the Conference at no charge, but preregistration is requested. The fee schedule is as follows: individual adult $65 ($75 on site); married couple $85 ($95 on site); family same household $95 ($105 on site); single sessions $25 on site; youth participation (to age 30), apart from family registration, only $25; All Day Saturday $55.

Registration online is encouraged at www.ccrno.org where you can find information on the schedule as well.

Conference attendees are encouraged to use the Copeland Tower Suites and Conference Center or Comfort Inn and Suites as their hotel for the Conference.

To book a room for the weekend, go to www.ccrno.org/bookhotels or call (504) 888-9500 and mention the code CCRNO-SRC to receive the special rate.

CCRNO hosts and administrates this conference and may be reached at info@ccrno.org or (504) 828-1368. BC

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February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 33

Announcement

Two diocesan seminarians instituted as lectors

PHOTOS BY KYLE POJE/PONTIFICAL NORTH AMERICAN COLLEGE

Joseph Lapeyrouse and Matthew Prosperie were among 35 seminarians instituted as lectors in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at the Pontifical North American College in Vatican City State, by Most Rev. Bernard A. Hebda, archbishop of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Jan. 12. The seminarians, currently in their first year of theological formation for the priesthood, will have three additional years of theological, spiritual and pastoral formation before being ordained to the priesthood.

Seminarian Joseph Lapeyrouse 34 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Seminarian Matthew Prosperie

Announcement

Three permanent deacons retired in 2019

Deacon Raymond Bourg Jr.

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre accepted the retirement of three permanent deacons in 2019.

Deacon Raymond Bourg Jr. was ordained to the permanent diaconate June 8, 2006. He served at Annunziata Church parish in Houma for 13 years.

Deacon Bourg retired June 30, 2019.

Deacon Jesse LeCompte was

Deacon Jesse LeCompte

ordained to the permanent diaconate June 8, 2006. He served at Holy Family Church parish in Grand Caillou and St. Anthony of Padua Church parish in Bayou Black. Deacon LeCompte retired Nov. 1, 2019.

Deacon Linwood Liner Sr. was ordained to the permanent diaconate Dec. 8, 2001. He served at St. Lucy Church

Deacon Linwood Liner Sr.

parish in Houma, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Church parish in Houma, and St. Gregory Church parish in Houma.

He also served as associate director of the Permanent Diaconate for Personnel, and as chaplain for the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office and Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center in Houma. Deacon Liner retired Dec. 8, 2019. BC

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Diocesan Events

www.bayoucatholic.com

February

n Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s VITA Program is offering free income tax preparation and e-filing every Tuesday (Feb. 4 – April 14) from 9 a.m.–3 p.m., on the second floor of the Terrebonne Parish Main Library in Houma, for wage earners making less than $60,000 a year. n Hispanic Ministry workshop for choir members, Feb. 5, diocesan Pastoral Center,

March

n Rite of Election, Sunday, March 1, 3 p.m., St. Joseph Co-Cathedral, Thibodaux. n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, March 3, Ellendale Country Club Restaurant, 3319 Highway 311, Houma, 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

Speaker, Father Duc Bui. n Hispanic Ministry workshop for

April

n Chrism Mass, Thursday, April 9, 10:30 a.m., Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma. n Hispanic Ministry workshop for altar servers, April 4, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 10 a.m.—2 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry Last Supper

you

Schriever, 7–8:30 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry workshop for ushers and greeters, Feb. 7, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 7–8:30 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry Tú, Yo y Cristo meeting, Feb. 9, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 5–8 p.m. n Mother Teresa Women’s Giving Circle Valentine’s Tea, Thursday, Feb. 13, 2-4 p.m.,

Charlotte Bollinger’s Barn, 8847 Hwy. 308, Lockport. n Hispanic Ministry extraordinary ministers of holy Communion retreat, Feb. 15, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 8 a.m.—2 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry Family Day, Feb. 22, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 9 a.m.— 4 p.m.

extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, March 14, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 9 a.m.—1 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry Tú, Yo y Cristo meeting, March 15, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 5–8 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry Lenten retreat, March

21, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 9 a.m.—1 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry RCIA retreat, March 28, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 9 a.m.—3 p.m.

celebration, April 9, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 7 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry Passion of the Lord celebration, April 10, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 3 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry Easter Vigil, April 11, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 8 p.m.

n Hispanic Ministry Tú, Yo y Cristo meeting, April 19, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 4–8 p.m. n Hispanic Ministry workshop for ushers and greeters, April 25, diocesan Pastoral Center, Schriever, 9 a.m.—1 p.m.

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36 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Announcement A ONE DAY GATHERING FOR MEN

Associate director of the Permanent Diaconate for Personnel appointed

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Deacon William (Bill) Dunckelman

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre has appointed Deacon William (Bill) Dunckelman to serve as the associate director of the Permanent Diaconate for Personnel, effective immediately for a six-year term. As associate director, his duties and responsibilities will include working with the director of the Permanent Diaconate in all matters pertaining to personnel issues; working with the associate director for Continuing Formation to help determine the needs of the community of deacons; and serving on the Permanent Diaconate Formation and Personnel committees.

Deacon Dunckelman replaces Deacon Linwood Liner, Sr., who retired in December 2019. BC

Fr. Mark Toups

Bishop Shelton Fabre

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February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 37

Announcement

GriefShare group meets at St. Mary’s Nativity in Raceland Bayou

Catholic

Part-Time Advertising Sales Executive Position Available About the Job The Bayou Catholic is looking to hire an experienced advertising sales executive who will represent the magazine professionally. The candidate should enjoy selling ads and helping clients. This is a magazine that locals love and is well respected in the community.

Qualifications: • Goal-oriented with an entrepreneurial spirit.

• Energetic, organized self-starter.

• Cares about the client and the magazine.

• Is a team player who knows how to open doors and close deals.

• Comfortable with cold calls and in-person sales.

• Can work independently and meet with professional executives and business owners.

• Eager, go-getter mentality who works well with other sales colleagues.

• Likes and understands the earning potential of a primarily commission wage structure.

• Serious candidates only.

Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

Interested applicants should send resume and references to: hr@htdiocese.org The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees by reason of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

38 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone.

If you’ve lost a spouse, child, family member or friend to death, you’ve probably found there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. This can be a confusing time when you feel isolated and have many questions about things you’ve never faced before. Although it may be hard for you to feel optimistic about the future during this time, there are people who would like to help you move forward.

GriefShare groups are non-denominational and meet weekly to help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. St. Mary’s Nativity Church parish in Raceland and Holy Savior Church parish in Lockport will begin a GriefShare program on Tuesday, March 3. Meetings will be every Tuesday for 14 weeks from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Nativity Church Community Center.

For more information, call Marty Cortez at (985) 227-0873 or St. Mary’s Nativity Church at (985) 537-3204. BC

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Announcements

Father Duc Bui to speak at Food for the Journey March 3

Father Duc Bui

The Diocese of HoumaThibodaux is sponsoring a lunchtime guest speaker Tuesday, March 3 at the Ellendale Country Club Restaurant located at 3319 Highway 311 in Houma.

The speaker is Father Duc Bui, who currently serves as pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary Church parish in Larose. The Tan Phuoc, Vietnam, native came to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in February 2016. He has served as associate pastor of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in

Early Lenten missions in the diocese St. Louis, Bayou Blue Become the Change You Want to See Date: Feb. 26-28 Time: 6:30 p.m. each night Speaker: Redemptorist Father Maurice Nutt, C.Ss.R., D.Min. St. Eloi, Theriot Contemplating Christ’s Sorrowful Mysteries from the Disciple’s Heart Date: March 2-3 Time: 6-7 p.m. each night Speaker: Father Duc Bui

40 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Thibodaux; diocesan director of Hispanic Ministry; and pastor of St. Andrew Church parish in Amelia.

A former member of the Legionnaires of Christ, Father Bui was incardinated to the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux in 2017. He graduated from the Regina Apostolorum Pontifical Athenaeum in Rome and was ordained to the priesthood Nov. 25, 2004.

Those who plan to attend the March 3 event should RSVP with their name, phone

number and church parish by Thursday, Feb. 27. To RSVP, email FoodForTheJourney@ htdiocese.org or call (985) 850-3178.

Doors open at 10:45 a.m.

Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m.

The program begins at Noon with the speaker’s presentation from 12:1012:45 p.m. Cost is $20, which includes meal and drink.

Only cash or checks will be accepted.

All are invited to come “eat and be fed.” BC

Announcement

Abbey Youth Festival returns March 21 Registration is now open for Abbey Youth Festival (AYF), the largest youth event within the Archdiocese of New Orleans. AYF takes place Saturday, March 21 on the grounds of Saint Joseph Abbey and Seminary College, located at 75376 River Road in St. Benedict.

AYF is open to high school students ages 13 or older. Visit www.abbeyyouthfest.com for more information, including sponsorship availability. College students and young adults are welcome to apply to serve as volunteers.

AYF, which draws thousands from throughout the Southern United States, provides young people with an opportunity to experience a day

of prayer and faith formation with an exposure to the Benedictine tradition. Its focus is evangelization and vocational discernment by means of liturgy, prayer, worship, music and education.

This year’s lineup includes:

n Kathleen Lee – Louisiana native and inspirational speaker and co-host of The Catholic Underground radio program, which airs on 1380 AM in Baton Rouge and 690 AM in New Orleans.

n Jackie Francois Angel – speaker, singer/songwriter, and worship leader from Orange County, CA. She has been involved in youth ministry since she graduated high school, and she now travels the globe speaking to young people about God’s love and leading worship for various events and ministries.

n The Vigil Project – a community of musicians featuring seasoned singer/ songwriters and worship leaders Online registration is now open.

Registration for youth and adult laity is $55 per person, which includes a T-shirt, lunch and dinner.

Priests, deacons and seminarians are invited to AYF free of charge. Visit www.abbeyyouthfest.com for more information. BC

n Father Josh Johnson – pastor of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in St. Amant

President Position Available

-2019-

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A diocesan co-educational secondary school founded by the Marianite Sisters of Holy Cross in 1870.

College preparatory curriculum stressing a personal spiritual approach to the education of the whole student through diverse academic, athletic and co-curricular programs.

Salary Highly competitive based on credentials

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CAMP ABBEY SUMMER CAMP

CAMP ABBEY SUMMER CAMP

How to Apply Submit a cover letter, resume’, completed application and transcripts to hr@htdiocese.org, or mail to Human Resources Director, P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395.

Application and additional details may be obtained from www.htdiocese.org/vandebiltpresident, or by calling (985) 850-3114.

Deadline to Apply February 15, 2020 Minimum Qualifications • A Catholic who is in full communion in the Church • Master’s degree with Education Administration/Leadership certification preferred OR an advanced degree with highly successful working experience in Marketing/Public Relations, Communications, Business or related area • Catholic secondary school experience preferred

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A one-week,Girls Catholic sleep-over for boys Camp: June 28-July 4, Julycamp 5-11, July 12-18, Julyand 19-25 girls in The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees by reason or race, color, religion*, sex, national origin, age, 2nd through 8th grades. Make lifelong friends, disability, veteran status, genetic information of any other basis prohibited by applicable law. *The Diocese, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to require “practicing Catholic” great memories and grow in your relationship with Jesus! to be a qualification for a position.

Februaryper 2020week • Diocese–of all Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 41 $409 inclusive

HOUMA Maria Immacolata Catholic School Krewe of MICS Friday, Feb. 21, 1:45 p.m.

HOUMA St. Bernadette Catholic School Krewe of Pandas Friday, Feb. 21, 12:30 p.m

Berwick Krewe of Dionysus, Saturday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.

Chackbay/Choupic Krewe of Choupic, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 1 p.m.

Chauvin Krewe of Bayou Petit Caillou, Saturday, Feb. 15, Noon

HOUMA St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School Krewe of St. Francis Wednesday, Feb. 19, 9:30 a.m.

HOUMA St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic School Krewe of Royals Thursday, Feb. 13, 9 a.m.

Larose Holy Rosary Catholic School Krewe of Kindergarten Parade Friday, Feb. 21, 2:45 p.m.

42 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Gheens Krewe of Gheens, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m.

Golden Meadow Krewe of Des Petite Lions Children’s Parade, Sunday, Feb. 9, 1 p.m.

Krewe of Athena, Friday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m.

Krewe of Atlantis, Saturday, Feb. 22, Noon Krewe of Nereids, Sunday, Feb. 23, 6 p.m.

Krewe of Neptune, Tuesday, Feb. 25, Noon Grand Isle Independent Parade, Sunday, Feb. 23, 1 p.m.

Houma Krewe of Hercules, Friday, Feb. 14, 6 p.m.

Krewe of Aquarius, Saturday, Feb. 15, 6:30 p.m.

Krewe of Hyacinthians, Sunday, Feb. 16, Noon Krewe of Titans, follows Hyacinthians Krewe of Aphrodite, Friday, Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m.

Krewe of Mardi Gras, Saturday, Feb. 22, 6 p.m.

Krewe of Terreanians, Sunday, Feb. 23, 12:30 p.m.

Krewe of Cleopatra, Monday, Feb. 24, 6:30 p.m.

Krewe of Houmas, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 1 p.m.

Krewe of Kajuns, follows Houmas

2020 Labadieville Krewe of Xanadu, Monday, Feb. 24, 6 p.m.

Larose Le Krewe Des T-Cajuns, Saturday, Feb. 15, Noon Krewe of Versailles, Sunday, Feb. 16, Noon Le Krewe Du Bon Temps, Saturday, Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m.

Lockport Krewe of Apollo, Saturday, Feb. 22, Noon Montegut Krewe of Montegut, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m.

Krewe de Bonne Terre, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m.

Morgan City Krewe of Adonis, Friday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m.

Krewe of Galatea, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m.

Krewe of Hephaestus, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2 p.m.

Thibodaux Krewe of Shaka, Sunday, Feb. 16, 12:30 p.m.

Krewe of Ambrosia, Sunday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m.

Krewe of Cleophas, Sunday, Feb. 23, 12:30 p.m.

Krewe of Chronos, Sunday, Feb. 23, 1:30 p.m.

Krewe of Ghana, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 1 p.m.

Lockport Holy Savior Catholic School Krewe of Eagles Friday, Feb. 21, 2 p.m.

Morgan City Central Catholic School Krewe of Spirit Friday, Feb. 21, 1:30 p.m.

Raceland St. Mary’s Nativity School Krewe of Kiddies Travels the Country Friday, Feb. 21, Noon

Thibodaux St. Genevieve Catholic School Krewe of Pre-K/YK Friday, Feb. 21, 2:45 p.m.

Thibodaux St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School Krewe of Pre-K Friday, Feb. 21, 1:30 p.m.

(Not open to the general public)

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 43

Mardi Gras

Father Glenn LeCompte reflects on his 10 years as a krewe member Story by Janet Marcel

“As a child, Mardi Gras parades were always a big part of my life every year and they were always a lot of fun for me,” says Father Glenn LeCompte, who lived in Chauvin until the age of 12 when he and his family moved to Houma. He remembers going to parades from a very young age.

“As I got older, I gained more of an understanding of what Mardi Gras really was and what its origin was and that gave me an even deeper appreciation of it. And even as I got older, I still enjoyed going to the parades with friends.”

Father LeCompte, who serves as diocesan director of the Office of Worship, says the first time he contemplated joining a Mardi Gras krewe was just after becoming a priest, and he thought about it for many years before acting on it.

Father LeCompte joined the Krewe of Terreanians in Houma in 2004 and was a member until 2014. He says what finally convinced him to join was when he met some parishioners in a parish where he was assigned who were members of different krewes in Houma. They had a stand where they would all watch the parade and for a few years he would go there and watch the parades with them.

“They would always talk about riding in a parade and that peaked my interest. I started asking questions about the club, the costs involved, and that sort of thing. One of the main reasons I joined was because it was a chance to do something enjoyable with friends. We all enjoyed the experience together as a group. They were great people to be with and we had a really good time without ‘overdoing’ it.”

The same 15-20 people rode on “his” float the whole 10 years he was a member.

For a priest, one of the busiest times of the year is the Christmas season, so Father LeCompte never really started preparing for Mardi Gras until after Christmas.

44 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

“Once I got through Christmas, I was able to start thinking about Mardi Gras. After the first of the year until Mardi Gras, I would travel to New Orleans on my days off to purchase throws and other supplies I needed for the parade.

Riding in a parade takes a lot of preparation and planning,” says Father LeCompte. “Not only do you have to purchase your throws and load everything on the float; but you have to organize everything in such a way that you can easily access it during the parade.”

Being a member of a Mardi Gras krewe also involves attending float meetings and float parties, and going in costume to the Tableau, which is where the krewe’s royalty for that year is announced. He says one year he even had the privilege of being the master of ceremonies for the Tableau, which was a lot of fun for him.

“It was always exciting just thinking about the upcoming parade, but on the actual day of the parade you would get such an adrenaline rush,” he recalls. On that morning, the members of his float and their families would meet at Ellendale Country Club for Mass, followed by breakfast.

Then the krewe members would travel by bus to the staging area at the beginning of the parade route to wait for the parade to begin.

He says he will never forget what happened during one of the stops on the way to the staging area the morning of his very first parade. “I missed my step walking off the embankment, twisted my ankle and fell face forward. A couple of guys came over and picked me up off the ground.

My ankle started to swell, so I just loosened my shoelaces.

As everything was happening I was thinking to myself, I am not missing my first ride.” Toward the end of the ride, he says he could not put any weight on his ankle so he finished the parade on one leg.

a

Mardi Gras

The parade typically lasted about 4 hours from start to finish, but Father LeCompte says it always seemed to go by way too fast! Even though the krewe members were required to wear a mask at all times during the parade, there were inevitably people along the parade route who would still recognize him.

He says his very favorite thing about riding in a Mardi Gras parade was the experience of handing a stuffed animal to a little child and seeing that child’s eyes light up. “When you see a child being able to enjoy the moment of receiving that stuffed animal … that’s what made riding in a Mardi Gras parade worthwhile.”

In addition to riding with Terreanians, Father LeCompte says he also rode in the Houmas parade in 2016 in place of his brother-in-law because his daughter, (Father LeCompte’s niece) was queen of Houmas that year. He says that was also a very enjoyable experience and a great group of people to ride with.

“Being a member of a Mardi Gras krewe and riding in a parade was one of the ways I celebrated and observed our local cultural tradition as it is related to Lent, because by its nature, of course, it’s the feast before the fast,” says the priest.

Of his 10 years as a member of the Krewe of Terreanians, Father LeCompte says, “It was a thoroughly enjoyable and fun experience to share with friends and with the parade goers.” BC

Have a Safe and

Happy s!

Mardi Gra Craig Pate, PT • Lori Matherne, DPT • Craig Hebert, PT 104 East Bayou Rd. (Hwy 308) • Thibodaux, LA 70301 (985) 446-3736 • www.thibodauxpt.com

How do you know which Tuesday it will be?

Ash Wednesday is always 46 days before Easter, and Fat Tuesday is always the day before Ash Wednesday. Easter can fall on any Sunday from March 23 to April 25, with the exact date to coincide with the first Sunday after the full moon following a spring equinox. There you have it. Viola! If you’re still confused, get out a calendar that has the holidays printed on it. Fat Tuesday is always the day before Ash Wednesday!

2020

FEB

25

2029

FEB

13

2038

MAR

9

2021

FEB

16

2030

MAR

5

2039

FEB

22

2022

MAR

1

2031

FEB

25

2040

FEB

14

2023

FEB

21

2032

FEB

10

2041

MAR

5

2024

FEB

13

2033

MAR

1

2042

FEB

18

2025

MAR

4

2034

FEB

21

2043

FEB

10

2026

FEB

17

2035

FEB

6

2044

MAR

1

2027

FEB

9

2036

FEB

26

2045

FEB

21

2028

FEB

29

2037

FEB

17

2046

FEB

6

February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 45

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras for families

By AMANDA DIGIONDOMENICO Mardi Gras has a gained a reputation as a celebration of debauchery, but for those from the great state of Louisiana, it’s actually a fun family extravaganza with plenty of kid-friendly activities.

In fact, its roots are religious – Mardi Gras began as a Catholic celebration to mark the last day of feasting before the Lenten fast began in preparation for Easter. But from St. Louis to Orlando to, of course, New Orleans, Mardi Gras has evolved into an excuse for adults and kids alike to dress up, don masks and parade through the streets. Here are a few travel tips for enjoying Mardi Gras with your family.

Stick to the Suburbs Parades are the staple of any Mardi Gras celebration, but the key to a

family-friendly time in New Orleans is to avoid the French Quarter. In fact, no parades even pass through there. But if you also want to avoid the huge crowds on St. Charles Avenue, then find a parade in the suburbs of Metairie where they tend to be a bit quieter and more family-oriented. There are plenty on the schedule, so don’t worry about missing out.

Best Seat in the House If you plan on attending one (or three) of the more popular parades in New Orleans with the little ones in tow, it’s a good idea to invest in a Mardi Gras ladder. These ladders feature a box seat at the top and are available in local New Orleans hardware stores.

The kids will get to see everything from this vantage point and avoid getting

trampled, and you’ll know where your kid is at all times. The float riders also aim their throws at kids on ladders, so they’ll be sure to score big.

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly City You don’t have to go to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. At Universal Studios in Orlando, the celebration continues all the way through April.

With a huge parade complete with stilt-walkers, street performers and elaborate floats every Saturday, the party never ends. Universal Studios also has their own French Quarter where you can listen to live Zydeco music and enjoy Cajun cuisine when the kids aren’t on the rides.

Party Animals At the St. Louis Zoo, kids rule Mardi Gras. With mask-making, beads

e f a s a e v a H y p p a h d n a ! s a r G i d r Ma Bayou 46 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Catholic

a

Mardi Gras

and face-painting, this zoo celebration is full of fun activities and games.

The event culminates in a stroller float parade, so bring your best stroller and wagon decorating skills to this free event and let the good times roll!

Don’t Eat the Baby You can celebrate Mardi Gras anywhere with a King Cake. The traditionally cinnamon brioche-like cake topped with a sugar glaze is always a hit with kids of any age. Whoever is lucky enough to find the baby in their slice of cake is dubbed the king or queen of Mardi Gras and is responsible for providing the next King Cake. But in your kid’s case, they can just relish their new title.

Another “Fat” Day “Fat Monday” is a celebration that’s just as fun as “Fat Tuesday,” but since it’s the day before the big party, it’s a bit more relaxed and a little less crowded – perfect for keeping track of the kiddies. At the Riverwalk Marketplace in New Orleans, live music and parades line the waterfront.

Fireworks mark the king of the carnival’s arrival on the river by boat, where he is greeted by the mayor and officially given rule over New Orleans.

Repurposed Parade Finery No matter where you wind up on Mardi Gras, it’s a time for dressing up and being silly. So take this chance to repurpose those Halloween costumes you thought would never see the light of day again. Better yet, dress in matching costumes, making it easier to keep track of each other in the parade crowds. BC

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February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 47

Mardi Gras

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February 2020 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 49

Sports

Ed Orgeron gives credit to team: ‘One team, one heartbeat’ Overtime Ed Daniels

It was an interesting conversation between the just promoted LSU head football coach and a reporter.

In that conversation, Ed Orgeron told the reporter about what must change inside the LSU football program.

As the final minutes ticked off the clock during the College Football Playoff National Championship, the reporter drifted back to that moment.

The coach wanted the emphasis to be on team. On discipline.

“One team, one heartbeat.”

Maybe that wasn’t just a phrase, after all.

Late on the night of Jan. 13, the confetti fell inside the Superdome.

It was purple and gold.

The next morning, Orgeron was queried about many things.

But, this nugget, I thought to be most interesting.

“During the season, we had a no barroom policy,” said Orgeron.

The message was clear. Do not let anything get in the way of chasing greatness.

In the minutes before kickoff, a source inside the program was asked what he thought about the game against Clemson.

He said the following.

“Ed Orgeron has built a machine.”

“They are a very good team, but I am not sure they (Clemson) can keep up for 60 minutes.”

And, then this nugget.

“What Ed has done in three years is amazing. We were so far behind Alabama, and now we are here.”

Ed Orgeron is an interesting fellow, indeed.

He is flexible and decisive, deciding to make a dramatic change in the LSU offense, and go to the spread.

He is also willing to take the heat.

After one season, he junked the Matt Canada experiment, and went back to trusted sidekick Steve Ensminger as his offensive coordinator.

Orgeron knew he would take the heat for that one.

He knew the criticism, that LSU was lost offensively, for good, would come.

He did it anyway.

Ed Orgeron is also loyal, with a memory as large as his personality.

During the championship season, a close friend of Coach O told a reporter the following.

“Ed does not forget who was good to him, and who wasn’t.”

50 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • February 2020

Orgeron’s mother had watched a TV show one night. A reporter on that program had some observations about where the LSU football program was headed with her son as head coach.

The reporter gave a thumbs up.

According to the friend, Mom relayed the moment to her son.

Soon after the confetti fell, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney walked into the press room.

He was nothing but class.

“LSU played a beautiful game,” said Swinney.

And, no one knew better, what it was like to be the interim coach, promoted to head coach, and trying to lift a program back to national prominence.

“I am happy for Coach O.” “He is one of the good guys in the business.” BC

2020 Current and New Student Registration Dates Holy Rosary Catholic School 12925 East Main St. Larose, LA 70373 Grades Two years old-8 Cathy Long, Principal Lauren Moore, Secretary 693-3342 • Fax 693-3348 holyroselm@htdiocese.org www.holyrosary.org Current Students: March 2-6 New Students and Pre-K (2, 3, 4 year olds): March 9-13 St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic School 441 Sixth St. Houma, LA 70364 Grades PK-7 Dr. Cindy Martin NBCT, Principal Ashley Landry, Admin. Asst.

876-2038 • Fax 879-2789 stgregelm@htdiocese.org www.stgregoryschool.org Current Students: February 10-14 New Students: Begins February 17 St. Bernadette Catholic School 309 Funderburk Ave. Houma, LA 70364 Grades PK3-7 Lydia Landry, Principal Susan Chauvin, Secretary 872-3854 • Fax 872-5780 stbernelm@htdiocese.org www.saintbernadettepandas.com Current Students: February 10-14 New Students: March 2-6 St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School 300 Verret St. Houma, LA 70360 Grades PS-7 Kelli Cazayoux, Principal Kim Landry, Secretary 868-6646 • Fax 851-5896 stfranciselm@htdiocese.org www.stfrancishouma.org Current Students: February 10-14 New Students: March 2-4 St. Genevieve Catholic School 807 Barbier Ave. Thibodaux, LA 70301 Grades PK3-7 Cheryl Thibodaux, Principal Stacie Trosclair, Secretary 447-9291 • Fax 447-9883 stgenelm@htdiocese.org www.stgenevieveschool.us Current Students: February 10-14 New Students: March 2-6

Holy Savior Catholic School 201 Church St. Lockport, LA 70374 Grades Nursery One-5 Tricia Thibodaux, Principal Marcia Hebert, Secretary 532-2536 • Fax 532-2269 holysavelm@htdiocese.org

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Current Students: February 3-7 New Students: February 10-14

St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School 501 Cardinal Dr. Thibodaux, LA 70301 Grades PK-7 Gerard Rodrigue Jr., Principal Rita Carrier, Secretary 446-1346 • Fax 449-0760 stjoeelm@htdiocese.org www.stjosephcesthibodaux.org Current Students: February 10-14 New Students: March 2-6 St. Mary’s Nativity School 3492 Nies Street Raceland, LA 70394 Grades Three years old-8 Marissa Bagala, Principal Judy Watts, Secretary 537-7544 • Fax 537-4020 stmarelm@htdiocese.org https:www.plusportals.com/ StMarysNativity Current Students: February 10-14 New Students: March 2-6 Vandebilt Catholic High School 209 S. Hollywood Rd. Houma, LA 70360 Grades 8-12 Jeremy Gueldner, Principal Shirley Cunningham, Secretary David Boudreaux, President 876-2551 • Fax 868-9774 vandebilthi@htdiocese.org www.vandebiltcatholic.org Current and New Students: February 3-14

Central Catholic School Junior High/High School 2100 Cedar St. Morgan City, LA 70380 Grades 6-12 Peter Boudreaux, Principal Sandy Daigle, Secretary 385-5372 • Fax 385-3444 centcathi@htdiocese.org www.cchseagles.com Current Students: February 3-14 New Students: March 2-13 Elementary School 2100 Cedar St. Morgan City, LA 70380 Grades PK3-5 Amanda Talbot, Principal Phyllis Jensen, Secretary 384-1933 • Fax 384-3270 holycrosselm@htdiocese.org www.holycrosselementary.org Current Students: January 8-31 New Students: Begins January 14 E.D. White Catholic High School 555 Cardinal Dr. Thibodaux, LA 70301 Grades 8-12 Michelle Chiasson, Principal Melissa Escher, Secretary Tim Robichaux, President 446-8486 • Fax 448-1275 edwhitehi@htdiocese.org www.edwhite.org Current and New Students: February 10-March 6 Catholic Schools Office Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Suzanne Troxclair Superintendent of Schools stroxclair@htdiocese.org Lisa Davies Administrative Assistant 850-3114 • Fax 850-3214

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