Bayou Catholic Magazine October 2016

INSIDE:

Bayou

Saint Teresa, Saint of Mercy

Bayou Outdoor Guide

Catholic

HOUMA, LA ~ OCTOBER 2016 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Allons!

1977 - 2017

STRATEGIC PLANNING LET’S DO THIS TOGETHER!

Bishop Fabre invites you to join one of the following planning commissions!

Get involved! Learn More.

FALL 2016 COMMISSIONS SUNDAY COMMISSION (PREACHING) How do we improve preaching?

10/20, 11/3, 12/6 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) DEACON COMMISSION How do we strengthen our deacons, their formation, and their role in the parish?

10/17, 11/8, 12/1 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) 2

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS COMMISSION How do we offer great Catholic education?

10/11, 11/15, 12/15 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) STEWARDSHIP COMMISSION How do we further create a culture of stewardship?

10/18, 11/16, 12/13 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) OUTREACH COMMISSION (PARISH SOCIAL MINISTRY) How do we create a culture integrating the principles of Catholic social teaching into parish life?

10/12, 11/21, 12/5 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) MULTICULTURAL COMMISSION How do we retain an authentically Catholic identity within cultures: African American, Native American, Hispanic.

(Visit Website for Updated Meeting Dates) VOCATIONS COMMISSION How do we sustain the number of needed seminarians for our diocese and from our diocese?

10/24, 11/29, 12/7 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) DIOCESAN GOVERNANCE COMMISSION What’s needed from the Pastoral Center in order for our parishes to thrive?

10/19, 11/10, 12/14 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) Commission dates may have changed since this publication.

For the most updated information, visit our webpage: www.htdiocese.org/sp or call Trudy: (985) 850-3173 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Bayou

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Bayou

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The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Saint Valentine’s Day

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Canonizations April 27

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Catholic

The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Bishop Sam Galip Jacobs 50 years a priest, 25 years a bishop

Catholic

The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Saint John XXIII

How Feb. 14 came to be celebrated as the feast for lovers is somewhat a mystery. What little is known of the feast’s namesake can be attributed to the lives of two martyrs: one a priest, the other a bishop. The priest Valentine reportedly was beheaded in 269 by Emperor Claudius II. The bishop, known for healing, was martyred earlier. It’s probable that a medieval custom of sending messages of love on this day somehow merged later with the feast.

We have Valentine’s Day resolutions inside.

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Graduation Special Inside

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The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Wedding Anniversary

Work of Human Hands

Diocese honors 271 couples

Honoring laborers in September

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He is Risen!

Filipinos welcome Francis

The Passion of J esus

Month of Mary

Remembering, honoring Him through Way of the Cross

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Bayou Catholic

Contents FEATURES

30 Bayou Patrons

By Janet Marcel

40 E.D. White turns 50

By Janet Marcel

COLUMNS

24

8

Comfort For My People

By Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

12 Pope Speaks

11

Pope Francis I

13 Question Corner

By Father Kenneth Doyle

14 Readings Between The Lines

By Father Glenn LeCompte

28 Seeing Clairely

By Claire Joller

29 Reading with Raymond

By Raymond Saadi

51 Overtime

4

40

48

By Ed Daniels

IN EVERY ISSUE

6

From the Editor

16 Scripture Readings 24 Heavenly Recipes

Bayou Bayou Outdoor Guide Fall 2016

Catholic

26 Young Voices 43 Diocesan Events GUEST COLUMNS

34 Faithful Citizenship

By Robert D. Gorman

36 World Mission Sunday

By Father Robert-Joel Cruz

ANNOUNCEMENTS

50 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

53

38 Strategic Planning update

By Blanca Robinson

44 E.D. White Alumnus of the Year

Camille A. Morvant II

On Our Cover Saint Teresa of Calcutta was canonized Sunday, Sept. 4, at the Vatican by Pope Francis.

The Missionary of Charity Sister devoted her life to serving the poorest of the poor worldwide.

Saint Teresa once said, “We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.”

Bayou Catholic Vol. 37, No. 4 How to reach us:

BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132

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

Where to find your Bayou Catholic Bayou Catholic magazine can be found at all Catholic churches in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, at the three Catholic high schools in Houma, Morgan City and Thibodaux, as well as the 10 elementary schools throughout the diocese. You may also visit the merchants listed in the Advertisers’ Index to pick up your copy. 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

Index to Advertisers Advanced Eye Institute ................................ 37 Barker Honda .............................................. 69 Bayou Catholic Collection .............................. 2 Cannata’s ................................................... 25 Cardinal Place ....................................... 22, 42 Cenac Marine .............................................. 71 Charles A. Page & Sons .............................. 61 Courtesy Ford ............................................. 62 Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center ................................. 21, 44 Daigle Himel Daigle Physical Therapy .......... 59 Data Management Services ......................... 70 Diocesan Outreach Line .............................. 47 Diocesan Strategic Plan .......................... 2, 52 Diocesan Website ................................. 33, 49 E.D. White Catholic High School .................. 44 Earl Williams ............................................... 19 G & F Sporting Center ................................. 65 God’s Promises Books & Gifts .............. 22, 39 Guidry Family Dentistry ............................... 34 H & H Marine .............................................. 57 Haydel Spine Pain & Wellness ..................... 15 Headache & Pain Center .............................. 51 Houma Digestive Health Specialists ............. 39

Kem Supply House, Inc. .............................. 19 Lanaux & Felger .......................................... 21 LeBlanc & Associates, LLC ......................... 39 Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center ....... 45 Re-Bath ...................................................... 28 Riviere Insurance Agency, Inc. ..................... 38 Robichaux’s Pharmacy ............................... 19 Rod’s Superstore ........................................ 35 Seminarian Education Burses ...................... 27 Southern Outdoors & Marine LLC ................ 55 Southland Drugs No. 2 ................................ 21 Southland Mall ............................................ 72 St. Joseph Manor .................................. 20, 42 Principal Postion Opening ............................ 37 Synergy Bank .............................................. 67 Terminix ...................................................... 49 Terrebonne-Lafourche Right-To-Life ............. 20 The Center for Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine ................................. 46 Thibodaux Physical Therapy ........................ 64 Vandebilt Catholic High School .................... 37 Watkins, Walker, Eroche & Hoychick ............ 37 World Mission Sunday ................................ 36

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.

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

National and world-wide news service and photos by National Catholic News Service.

Lawrence Chatagnier

editor and general manager

Glenn J. Landry, C.P.A. business manager

Janet Marcel

staff writer/administrative assistant

Katie DeRoche

advertising accounts executive

Lisa Schobel Hebert graphic designer

Meridy Liner

accounts receivable/payable assistant

Awards

CPA First Place General Excellence 2013 - 2014 LPA First Place General Excellence 2015 www.bayoucatholic.com

5

Welcome

From the Editor

6

It’s October and our thoughts are turning to cooler, dryer days as the fall season begins to show signs of the changing weather.

It is also the month in which we celebrate Respect Life Sunday, which falls on Oct. 2 this year.

Although the first Sunday of October is generally set aside as Respect Life Sunday, the whole month of October is respect life month. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre in his monthly column writes about all human life being sacred, from conception to a natural death.

During this year of mercy we are reminded about the corporal works of mercy: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, bury the dead and give alms to the poor. There is a direct relationship to respecting life and practicing the corporal works of mercy.

Saint Teresa of Calcutta graces the cover of this issue of Bayou Catholic. She was probably the best known champion for the

poor in this modern era.

She began with a small congregation with 13 members in Calcutta; by 1997 it had grown to more than 4,000 sisters running orphanages, AIDS hospices and charity centers worldwide, caring for refugees, the blind, disabled, aged, alcoholics, the poor and homeless, and victims of floods, epidemics and famine.

During last month’s canonization, Pope Francis said while she is now Saint Teresa she will always be “Mother” Teresa. The pope also said in his homily during the Mass in St. Peter’s Square, “Mother Teresa, in all aspects of her life, was a generous dispenser of divine mercy, making herself available for everyone through her welcome and defense of human life, those unborn and those abandoned and discarded.”

On Respect Life Sunday, we will be reminded of the evil of abortion and the millions of babies that have been aborted. During the annual Life Chain, the focus is on abortion during the silent protests

by Christians in our communities.

It is good that we gather as people of God and be the voice for who have no voice. As we observe Respect Life month, let us not forgot the people we see daily who deserve our respect: the homeless person we might

encounter passing by on the street; the elderly, some of whom are lonely and just want to have someone visit or call them so they know they are not forgotten; the many people who are out of work; and the hungry, these are tough economic times in our area. Supporting the charitable organizations for those who find themselves facing economic challenges such as the food banks and thrift stores throughout the diocese is likewise a part of respecting all human life.

Pope Francis also said during Saint Teresa’s canonization, “Wherever someone is reaching out, asking for a helping hand in order to get up, this is where our presence – and the presence of the church which sustains and offers hope – must be.”

While we celebrate cooler weather, weekends with football and the beginning of the hunting and fall fishing season, let’s take time to reflect on the life of St. Teresa, a great model for us and a guardian of the poor, and remember to respect all human life especially the less fortunate among us.

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!

Lawrence

Lawrence Chatagnier Editor & General Manager Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Bayou Spirit

Acadian Mass

The annual Acadian Mass held at St. Hilary of Poitiers Church in Mathews was celebrated in conjunction with the feast of the Assumption. Father Roch Naquin was the principal celebrant of the Mass with Bishop Shelton J. Fabre presiding. Priests of the diocese concelebrated the Mass.

Catholics from across the diocese gathered for the Mass which celebrates the Cajun culture of the bayou area.

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Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Cursillo Mass

A Cursillo Mass was celebrated recently at St. Gregory Church parish in Houma. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre was the main celebrant of the Mass which was concelebrated by priests of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Leeney and Claude Bourg were honored after the Mass for their many years of service to the Cursillo Movement. www.bayoucatholic.com

Comment Comfort For My People

O 8

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

October is annually recognized in the church as Respect Life Month.

The Respect Life program is an important initiative of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) which began in 1972.

Throughout each year, but especially during the month of October, the church calls us to a heightened and particular reflection on and actions toward respecting the sanctity and dignity of all human life.

The Respect Life program of the USCCB each year reminds all of us that each and every person, regardless of the circumstances of their lives, is of inestimable value. We are each created in the image and likeness of God, and therefore each possess an intrinsic dignity. We are each called to an eternal destiny with God. We are all invited in a focused and heightened way during October to reflect upon and to thank God for the wonderful gift of human life, and to also renew our dedication to advancing the cause of respect for life through our prayer, words and constructive actions.

Each year a theme is provided for Respect Life Month, and the theme this year is Moved by Mercy. As we are grateful and moved by God’s mercy in breathing into us the gift of human life, so we are called to show this same mercy to others and to respect and be grateful for the gift of human life that God has mercifully breathed into each and every human person.

The many attacks against human life continue to manifest themselves in our society. The list of attacks against the sanctity of human life reads like a litany of death and destruction in a culture of death: abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, embryonic stem cell research, senseless violence and murder. With all these and so many other ongoing attacks against life, and with new attacks like human trafficking, disregard for creation and others emerging all the time, we can

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

All human life is sacred clearly see why the church during the month of October invites us to pray for, reflect upon and work toward ending all attacks against the holiness of human life.

All human life is sacred from the first moment of conception until the time of natural death, and having received God’s mercy we should all be Moved by Mercy to respect all human life.

As we again mark Respect Life Month during October, I invite you to join me at our annual Respect Life Mass which will be celebrated at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux at 11:30 a.m. on Respect Life Sunday, the first Sunday in October which this year is Oct. 2. We will lift our voices in prayer together to thank God for the wonderful gift of all human life, and the Eucharist will nourish us to join our voices and our actions to all that is being done today to foster respect for all human life.

This year the month of October will also bring more focused attention to the upcoming local, state and national elections occurring next month.

Since this is the year of a presidential election, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has again provided the document Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States.

Rooting itself in the teachings of the church, the document Faithful Citizenship provides guidance for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in the workings of democracy here in our country. As one of the bishops in the United States who, along with other bishops, approved this document, I urge our pastors, lay and religious faithful, and all people of good will to utilize this document with regard to the coming elections and into the future.

Faithful Citizenship will help all people in forming their conscience, communicating correct information to others, contributing to civil and respectful public dialogue, and will assist us in political choices in the coming election in light of Catholic teaching. Faithful Citizenship can be found online at http://www.usccb.org/ issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship. I invite you to reflect upon the teaching found in this document as you prepare to cast your vote in November 2016. Let us pray for God’s guidance as we vote to choose leaders for our nation, state and community.

As I have indicated before, October in my opinion brings some of the most favorable weather conditions here in south Louisiana. Enjoy this wonderful month and its great weather!

L

La Iglesia celebra en octubre el Mes de Respeto por la Vida. El programa de Respeto por la Vida es una iniciativa importante de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Los Estados Unidos (USCCB, siglas en inglés) que se inició en 1972.

El programa de Respeto por la Vida de USCCB nos recuerda cada año que todos los seres humanos t i e n e n un valor incalculable sin importar la situación en la que viven. Cada ser humano es creado a imagen y semejanza de Dios y por tanto, tiene una dignidad intrínseca.

Cada ser h u m a n o ha sido destinado a la vida eterna con Dios y ha sido invitado con intensidad este mes de octubre para reflexionar y agradecer a Dios por el don de la vida humana y a renovar su dedicación al respeto por la vida aún más con sus oraciones, palabras y actos benéficos.

Cada año hay un tema para el Mes de Respeto por la Vida y el tema de este año es Conmovido por la Misericordia. No solamente hemos sido llamados a dar gracias y a conmovernos por la misericordia que Dios nos da; también hemos sido llamados a demostrar esta misma misericordia a nuestro prójimo y a respetar con agradecimiento el don de la vida humana que con un soplo Dios le ha otorgado a todos los seres humanos.

Nuestra sociedad vive asaltos múltiples contra la vida humana.

La lista de asaltos contra la santidad de la vida humana es una lista letal y destructiva en una cultura de muerte: el

Comentario aborto, la eutanasia, la pena de muerte, el estudio de células madre embrionarias, violencia descontrolada y asesinatos. Con estas y otros asaltos contra la vida y con asaltos nuevos que incluyen el tráfico humano, la negación de la creación y otros asaltos nuevos que emergen, podemos ver con claridad por qué la Iglesia nos

presidenciales, la Conferencia de Obispos de Los Estados Unidos ha publicado el documento de Formando la Conciencia para ser Ciudadanos Fieles: Un Llamado a la responsabilidad política de los Obispos Católicos de Los Estados Unidos.

Basado en las doctrinas de la Iglesia, el documento Ciudadanos Fieles sirve de guía para los católicos que ejercen sus derechos y responsabilidades democráticas en nuestro país.

Siendo uno de los obispos en Los Estados Unidos que aprobaron este documento, le pido a nuestros sacerdotes, laicos, fieles y a todo el pueblo de buena voluntad que utilicen este documento con respecto a las elecciones próximas y en el futuro.

Ciudadanos Fieles le ayudará a todo el pueblo a formar su conciencia, comunicar la información debida a los demás, contribuir al diálogo público de manera respetuosa y ayudará a tomar decisiones políticas en las elecciones próximas usando las doctrinas católicas. Ciudadanos Fieles se puede encontrar en español en http://www.usccb.org/issuesand-action/faithful-citizenship/ formando-la-conciencia-paraser-ciudadanos-fieles-indice.cfm.

Les invito a reflexionar sobre las enseñanzas que se encuentran en este documento antes de ir a las urnas electorales en noviembre, 2016. Oremos a Dios para que nos guíe en nuestra decisión en las urnas al elegir los líderes de nuestra nación, estado y comunidad.

Opino que octubre nos brinda uno de los climas más agradables en el Sur de Luisiana. ¡Disfruten este mes hermoso y su clima asombroso!

Traducido por Julio Contreras, feligrés de la Iglesia Annunziata en Houma.

Toda vida humana es sagrada

invita en octubre a orar, reflexionar y trabajar por terminar todos estos asaltos contra la santidad de la vida humana.

Toda la vida humana es sagrada desde el momento de la concepción hasta el momento de la muerte.

Por el hecho de haber recibido la misericordia de Dios debemos conmovernos por ella y respetar toda vida humana. Por eso, en octubre les invito a celebrar conmigo nuestra misa anual del Respeto por la Vida el domingo dos de octubre a las 11:30 a.m. en la CoCatedral St. Joseph en Thibodaux.

Alzaremos nuestras voces en oración para dar gracias a Dios por el don de la vida humana y la Eucaristía nos alimentará para que unamos nuestras voces y nuestros actos para forjar el respeto por la vida humana.

En este mes de octubre también enfocaremos la atención a las elecciones estatales y nacionales de noviembre. En este año de elecciones

www.bayoucatholic.com

9

Binh luan bang loi

T

Tháng Mười hằng năm được công nhận trong Giáo Hội như là tháng Tôn trọng Sự Sống. Chương trình Tôn trọng Sự Sống là một sáng kiến ​​quan trọng của Hội đồng Giám mục Công giáo Hoa Kỳ (USCCB-HĐGMCGHK) đã bắt đầu từ năm 1972. Mỗi năm, đặc biệt là trong tháng Mười, Giáo Hội kêu gọi chúng ta cách cụ thể suy gẫm sâu xa và có những hành động hướng tới việc tôn trọng sự thánh thiêng và phẩm giá của tất cả sự sống con người.

Chương trình Tôn trọng Sự Sống của HĐGMCGHK hằng năm nhắc nhở tất cả chúng ta rằng mỗi người và mọi người, bất kể hoàn cảnh cuộc sống của họ, thì có giá trị vô giá. Mỗi người chúng ta đều được tạo dựng theo giống hình ảnh và sáng tạo của Thiên Chúa, và do đó mỗi người đều có một phẩm giá nội tại. Mỗi người chúng ta đều được mời gọi tới hưởng phúc đời đời với Thiên Chúa. Trong suốt tháng Mười này, tất cả chúng ta đều được mời gọi chú trọng và quan tâm để suy gẫm và cảm tạ Chúa vì món quà sự sống tuyệt vời của con người, và cũng lập lại sự dâng hiến của chúng ta để thúc đẩy sự tôn trọng sự sống qua lời cầu nguyện, lời nói và các hành động mang tính cách xây dựng.

Mỗi năm một chủ đề được đưa ra cho tháng Tôn trọng Sự Sống, và chủ đề của năm nay là Được đánh động bởi Lòng Chúa Thương Xót. Khi chúng ta biết ơn và được lòng thương xót của Thiên Chúa đánh động qua việc thổi ân huệ sự sống con người vào trong chúng ta. Vì vậy chúng ta được kêu gọi để bày tỏ cùng lòng thương xót này đối với người khác và tôn trọng và biết ơn về ân huệ sự sống con người mà Thiên Chúa đã thương xót thổi vào mỗi người và mọi người chúng ta.

Nhiều cuộc tấn công chống lại sự sống con người vẫn tiếp tục hoành hành trong xã hội của chúng ta. Danh sách các cuộc tấn công chống lại sự thánh thiêng của sự sống con người giống như một bản kinh cầu của cái chết và sự hủy diệt trong nền văn hóa sự chết như: phá thai, trợ tử, án tử hình, nghiên cứu tế bào gốc phôi

thai, bạo lực vô nghĩa và giết người. Với tất cả những điều này và rất nhiều cuộc tấn công khác đang diễn ra chống lại sự sống, và với các cuộc tấn công mới như buôn bán người, coi thường sự tạo dựng và những điều khác đang nổi lên theo thời gian, chúng ta có thể thấy rõ ràng lý do tại sao Giáo hội trong tháng Mười này mời gọi chúng ta cầu nguyện, suy gẫm và hành động hướng tới việc chấm dứt tất

tất cả sự sống của con người.

Năm nay, tháng Mười cũng sẽ mang lại sự đáng chú ý hơn cho các cuộc bầu cử sắp tới cho địa phương, tiểu bang và quốc gia diễn ra vào tháng tới. Vì đây là năm của cuộc bầu cử tổng thống, Hội đồng Giám mục Công giáo Hoa Kỳ một lần nữa đã cung cấp tài liệu Việc hình thành lương tâm cho Công dân có Lương Tâm: Lời kêu gọi đối với Trách nhiệm Chính trị từ các Giám Mục Công Giáo tại Hoa Kỳ.

Bắt nguồn từ các giáo huấn của Giáo hội, tự bản chất tài liệu Công dân có Lương Tâm cung cấp sự hướng dẫn cho người Công giáo trong việc thực hiện các quyền lợi và bổn phận của mình với tư cách là người tham dự trong các hoạt động của nền dân chủ tại đất nước chúng ta.

Là một trong các Giám mục tại Hoa Kỳ, cùng với các Giám mục khác, tôi đã phê chuẩn tài liệu này, và tôi cũng kêu gọi các Linh mục, Tu sĩ và tín hữu, và tất cả những người thiện chí hãy sử dụng tài liệu này, liên quan đến các cuộc bầu cử sắp tới và trong tương lai.

Tài liệu Công dân có Lương Tâm sẽ giúp tất cả mọi người trong việc hình thành lương tâm của họ, truyền đạt thông tin chính xác cho người khác, góp phần đối thoại của người công dân và tôn trọng mọi người, và sẽ giúp chúng ta trong những lựa chọn chính trị cho cuộc bầu cử sắp tới theo ánh sáng của giáo huấn Công giáo. Tài liệu Công dân có Lương Tâm có thể được tìm thấy trên mạng tại địa chỉ: http://www.usccb.org/ issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship.

Tôi kêu gọi Anh Chị Em suy gẫm về lời giảng dạy trong tài liệu này khi Anh Chị Em chuẩn bị đi bỏ phiếu vào tháng 11 năm 2016. Chúng ta hãy cầu nguyện để có được sự hướng dẫn của Thiên Chúa khi chúng ta bỏ phiếu lựa chọn các vị lãnh đạo cho đất nước, cho tiểu bang và cho cộng đồng chúng ta.

Như tôi đã định liệu trước đây, tháng Mười theo quan điểm của tôi mang lại một số điều kiện thời tiết thuận lợi nhất ở đây tại miền Nam tiểu bang Louisiana.

Hãy tận hưởng tháng Mười tuyệt vời này và thời tiết tốt đẹp an hoà!

Dịch thuật do Lm. Francis Bui, SDD và Thầy Paul Vu, SDD. Tu Đoàn Tông Đồ Giáo Sĩ Nhà Chúa.

Sự Sống Con Người là Thánh Thiêng

10

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

cả các cuộc tấn công chống lại sự thánh thiêng của sự sống con người.

Tất cả sự sống con người đều là thánh thiêng ngay từ giây phút đầu tiên thụ thai cho đến lúc chết tự nhiên, và đã nhận được lòng thương xót của Thiên Chúa nên tất cả chúng ta đều được đánh động bởi Lòng Thương Xót hầu tôn trọng tất cả sự sống của con người.

Một lần nữa khi chúng ta ghi dấu việc Tôn trọng Sự Sống trong tháng Mười này, tôi mời gọi Anh Chị Em tham gia với tôi dâng Thánh Lễ Tôn trọng Sự Sống hằng năm sẽ được cử hành tại Nhà thờ Đồng Chánh Tòa St. Joseph ở Thibodaux lúc 11:30 sáng vào ngày Chúa Nhật Tôn trọng Sự Sống, ngày Chúa Nhật đầu tiên của tháng Mười, mà năm nay là ngày 2 tháng 10. Chúng ta sẽ cất cao lời cầu nguyện với nhau để cảm tạ Chúa vì ân huệ sự sống tuyệt vời của con người, và Thánh Thể sẽ nuôi dưỡng chúng ta liên kết tiếng nói và hành động của chúng ta cho tất cả những gì đang được thực hiện ngày hôm nay để thúc đẩy sự tôn trọng

National Day of Prayer for Peace

11 Bishop Shelton J. Fabre was the main celebrant of the Mass for the National Day of Prayer for Peace at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops set aside this day for prayer and reflection to unify all people of faith in the efforts to promote peace and justice. The Knights of Peter Claver served as an honor guard for the celebration.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

www.bayoucatholic.com

Comment The Pope Speaks

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VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- With a large tapestry bearing the portrait of the woman known as the “Saint of the Gutters” suspended above him, Pope Francis proclaimed the sainthood of Mother Teresa of Kolkata, hailing her courage and love for the poor.

Despite the formality of the occasion though, “her sanctity is so close to us, so tender and fruitful, that spontaneously we will continue to call her ‘Mother Teresa,’” Pope Francis said to applause at the canonization Mass.

“Mother Teresa, in all aspects of her life, was a generous dispenser of divine mercy, making herself available for everyone through her welcome and defense of human life, those unborn and those abandoned and discarded,” the pope said in his homily during the Mass in St. Peter’s Square.

An estimated 120,000 people packed the square, many holding umbrellas or waving fans to keep cool under the sweltering heat of the Roman sun. However, upon hearing Pope Francis “declare and define Blessed Teresa of Kolkata to be a saint,” the crowds could not contain their joy, breaking out in cheers and thunderous applause before he finished speaking.

The moment was especially sweet for more than 300 Albanians who live in Switzerland, but came to Rome for the canonization. “We are very proud,” said Violet Barisha,

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

Pope Francis kisses a prayer card presented by a Missionaries of Charity nun at the conclusion of the canonization Mass of St. Teresa of Kolkata in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Sept. 4.

a member of the Albanian Catholic Mission in St. Gallen.

Daughter of Divine Charity Sister Valdete, a Kosovar and one of the Albanian group’s chaplains, said, “We are so happy and honored. We are a small people, but have had so many martyrs.”

Born in 1910 to an ethnic Albanian family in Skopje, in what is now part of Macedonia, Mother Teresa went to India in 1929 as a Sister of Loreto and became an Indian citizen in 1947. She founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950.

Mother Teresa, Sister Valdete said, is a shining example of how “Albanian women are strong and our people are hardworking.”

In his homily, Pope Francis said God’s will is explained in the words of the prophets: “I want mercy, not sacrifice.”

“God is pleased by every act of mercy because in the brother or sister that we assist, we recognize the face of God which no one can see,” he said. “Each time we bend down to the needs of our brothers and sisters, we give Jesus something to eat and drink; we clothe, we help and we visit the Son of God.” Like Mother Teresa, he said, Christians are called not simply to perform acts of charity, but to live charity as a vocation and “to grow each day in love.”

“Wherever someone is reaching out, asking for a helping hand in order to get up, this is where our presence -- and the presence of the church which sustains and offers hope -- must be,” the pope said.

Mother Teresa, he said, lived out this vocation to charity through her commitment to defending the unborn and bowing down “before those who were spent, left to die on the side of the road.”

She also “made her voice heard before the powers of this world so that they might recognize their guilt for the crime of poverty they created,” Pope Francis said. “For Mother Teresa, mercy was the ‘salt’ which gave flavor to her work, it was the ‘light’ which shone in the darkness of the many who no longer had tears to shed for their poverty and suffering.”

For all Christians, especially volunteers engaged in works of mercy, the life of the saintly nun remains an example and witness to God’s closeness to the poorest of the poor, he said.

“Today, I pass on this emblematic figure of holiness!” Pope Francis said. “May this tireless worker of mercy help us to increasingly understand that our only criterion for action is gratuitous love, free from every ideology and all obligations, offered freely to everyone without distinction of language, culture, race or religion.”

St. Teresa of Kolkata will always be ‘Mother’ Teresa, pope says Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Question Corner Father Kenneth Doyle

Ministers at Mass in shorts

Q

Q. Too often I have seen various ministers at the Mass wearing shorts. I find this to be the utmost irreverence. Would these same people wear shorts to dine with the president of the United States? Yet they wear shorts not only to dine with Our Lord, but to serve him as well.

I know that God probably doesn’t care, but shouldn’t we care how we present ourselves before him and act as his representatives? Shouldn’t we dress our best for Mass -- which, after all, is the most important event we attend each week?

(Upstate New York)

A

A. There is nothing in the church’s universal Code of Canon Law as to how ministers of the Eucharist should be dressed -- which is logical, when one considers that the Catholic Church embraces the entire the world and that what is considered appropriate apparel varies widely around the globe.

(I have been present at papal Masses in the interior of Africa that included liturgical dance by women in grass skirts -- all done reverently and enhancing the sense of worship.)

The Catechism of the Catholic Church, however, does speak to the issue when it observes that for all who are present at Mass, “bodily demeanor (gestures, clothing) ought to convey the

respect, solemnity and joy of this moment when Christ becomes our guest” (No. 1387).

Because taste in dress does differ (even within our own nation), it might seem wise for dioceses or parishes to draft their own guidelines -- and many, in fact, have done so. Some are rather general, noting that ministers should dress in a way that is respectful, modest and presentable -- often adding that clothing that is too casual or flamboyant can distract worshippers from the Eucharist.

Others are quite specific; one parish in the U.S. Midwest directs that liturgical ministers should wear “no jeans, sweatpants or yoga pants; no shirts exposing the navel; no tight-fitting clothes; no shorts; no flip-flops.” For men, this means “no T-shirts (collared shirts only); no sleeveless shirts.” For women, “no dress or skirt with a hem any higher than at or just above the knee; no spaghetti strap tops or tank tops or tube tops; no style of dress exposing bare shoulders or bare back; no style of dress exposing cleavage.”

Man and wife in heaven?

Q A

Q. My wife passed away three years ago, and I miss her very much. We were married for 63 years. What are the church’s thoughts on the hereafter?

Will we still be man and wife?

(Milford, Iowa) A. Your question is one frequently asked by those who are mourning deeply the death of a spouse. The response should bring you some comfort.

In one Gospel story (Mark 12:18-27), a question is posed to Jesus by the Sadducees, who did not believe in an afterlife; they wanted to know about a woman who had had seven spouses successively, and which man

would be her husband in heaven.

Jesus explained that “when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but they are like the angels in heaven” (Mk 12:25).

Some have interpreted these words -- erroneously -- to mean that there will be no continuing and special relationship in heaven between earthly spouses. Instead, what Christ simply meant was that the institution of marriage, as we have known it on earth, will be unnecessary in heaven. There will be no need for procreation because no one will ever die; human companionship will not be required to satisfy our loneliness because the desire for intimacy will be fulfilled by knowing the Lord personally.

Still, though, the church does believe that the relationships we have enjoyed on earth will be transformed and enhanced as they continue in heaven. A prayer frequently used at the end of funeral Masses has the priest saying, “Before we go our separate ways, let us take leave of our brother/sister. May our farewell express our affection for him/ her; may it ease our sadness and 13 strengthen our hope. One day we shall joyfully greet him/her again when the love of Christ, which conquers all things, destroys even death itself.”

Catholic News Service

Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@ gmail.com and 40 Hopewell St., Albany, N.Y. 12208 www.bayoucatholic.com

Reflections Readings Between The Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

Encouraging a sinner’s conversion, an act of mercy

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I remember when I was growing up in my home parish there was a song the choir used to sing named “Zacchaeus,” that has stuck in my mind to this day. The song’s refrain is: “There was a man in Jericho called Zacchaeus. There was a man in Jericho called Zacchaeus. Now the Hebrews, they were tall, but Zaccheus, he was small, Yet the Lord loved Zaccheus, better than them all” (www.lyrics.wikia. com).

The song I just mentioned musically tells the story of a Lucan Gospel character, Zacchaeus, whose story (Luke 19:1-10) will be proclaimed in the Gospel reading for the ThirtyFirst Sunday in Ordinary Time (Oct. 29-30, 2016). Unique to Luke’s Gospel, the Zacchaeus episode bears the marks of Luke’s particular theological interests, for example, the fact that Jesus teaches a lesson on mercy through prophetic action and word.

The mention of Jesus’ entry into Jericho in Luke 19:1 reminds the reader that Jesus is on a journey to Jerusalem through which he will accomplish his salvific transit to the Father.

A city on the west bank of the Jordan River about 15 miles northeast of Jerusalem, Jericho is mentioned a number of times in the Old Testament. In Joshua

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

2:1-24, two spies sent into Jericho

by Joshua are housed and enabled to escape through the agency of a harlot named Rahab, who with her family is spared by the Israelite army when they besiege Jericho (Joshua 6:25) because of the earlier assistance she had given to Israel’s intelligence operation. Jericho, here, is the site of an act of mercy on the part of Joshua.

Jesus, whose name is a shortened version of “Joshua,” enters Jericho and draws the attention of a tax collector there. Tax collectors, of course, were despised by their fellow Jews because they often practiced extortion even as they collected taxes for the overlords of their people. The mention that Zacchaeus is “rich” constitutes a negative character trait in Luke’s story of Jesus, as is the case in the parables of The Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21) or The Rich Man and Lazarus (16:19-31). So here we have a narrative tension inherent in the presentation of the character of Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus is not a model of Jewish virtue, yet Jesus earlier in the story associated with the likes of Zacchaeus (5:27-32; 15:1-3). However, he also warned people of the danger of material wealth.

Zacchaeus’ being “vertically challenged” (19:3) occasions the opportunity to move the action of the story forward. Obviously, he is interested to see Jesus, perhaps because he has heard of Jesus’ tendency to associate with publicans. Zacchaeus’ act of climbing a sycamore tree to see Jesus indicates great effort and desire on the tax collector’s part.

As Jesus arrives at Zacchaeus’ location he invites him to come down from the tree because he intends to dine in Zacchaeus’ house “today.” Zacchaeus hastily and joyfully complies with Jesus’ invitation (19:6). This exchange between Jesus and Zacchaeus sets the conflict in the story into motion. Jesus’ favorable greeting of a tax collector, and worse yet, his desire to establish table fellowship with him is unthinkable from the crowd’s perspective. Righteous Jews who associate with sinners share their defilement. In response the crowd grumbles. In Greek, the word is diegonguzon, a term which echoes the negative reaction of the Israelites in the Old Testament, when in their desert journey food, water and God’s protection from enemies seemed to be lacking (Exodus 15:24; 16:2; Numbers 14:2). Even as their ancestors grumbled against God and Moses, the crowd in the Zaccheus episode grumbles against God’s most definitive emissary, his Son. The expected reaction of Jesus would be to shun Zacchaeus as a sinner.

Instead, he does the opposite and is condemned by the crowd.

Jesus, true to Luke’s typical manner of depicting him, is acting as a prophet. In the tradition of Isaiah and Ezekiel, who both performed attention-getting symbolic deeds to communicate God’s message, Jesus’ astonishing act of summoning Zacchaeus and inviting himself to dinner at his house is a prophetic act meant to convey the message of God’s mercy for sinners. At the end of the episode, Jesus will

a

reinforce his deed with a prophetic teaching that he as Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost (19:10; cf. Ezekiel 34:16).

At this point in the story, perhaps surprisingly, Zacchaeus, not Jesus takes the lead. Despite the crowd’s distaste for him, he boldly declares that he will give half his goods to the poor, and if he has defrauded anyone, he will pay that person back fourfold (19:8). What prompts such a drastic change of heart on the part of Zacchaeus is not clear.

A reasonable conjecture, however, might be Jesus’ surprisingly favorable reception of him, coupled with his eagerness to see Jesus before they encounter one another.

Noteworthy is the description of the way Zacchaeus receives Jesus, that is, “with joy” (19:6). Joy is a major Lucan theme (Luke 1:44; 2:10; 6:22-23; 15:4-7; 19:37; 24:3641, 50-53). It is a sign of God’s definitive end-time visitation (see Isaiah 29:18-21; Zephaniah 3:1419). The fact that joy emerges as Jesus receives Zacchaeus favorably indicates that Jesus’ action, unexpected as it is to the crowd,

points to God’s visitation of his people through Jesus.

Another Lucan theme that is present in this story is the proper use of material wealth. Zacchaeus is a counter-example of the parabolic characters of the Rich Fool or the Rich Man who neglects Lazarus. Obsessed with material possessions, the two characters in the parables just mentioned foolishly compromise their integrity by turning in on themselves and neglecting others whom they were obligated to help. Zacchaeus had been subject to vices related to

Reflection

material wealth. But his reversal of those behaviors constitutes an act of conversion, which reflects Jesus’ exhortation in Luke 12:33 to “sell your possessions and give to the poor.”

One among many Lucan passages that depict Jesus as merciful Savior, the episode of Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus contributes to our reflection on mercy in this Holy Year. Mercy in this episode is depicted in the form of welcoming and encouraging a sinner’s conversion rather than his or her condemnation.

Questions

e publicly hose sins ar w e pl eo p t trea allenge such our society acchaeus ch Z to n io n How does ct a does Jesus’ re exposed? How e ich can aris treatment? the vices wh d oi av es v n li e in our ow gs? n How can w aterial thin m of on si es prophet and oss p r nted priest, from ou oi an sm ti bap owing mercy e who are in inistry by sh m ic et ph ro n How can w is p sus extend h king with Je to others?

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October

Saints

Holy Father’s prayer intentions

Francis of Assisi 1182-1226 October 4

CNS

The son of a wealthy Italian merchant, Francis was a playboy who experienced a profound conversion after going to war for Assisi, being imprisoned, and enduring a debilitating illness. He renounced his family and riches, and lived a life of radical poverty and service because he believed Christ had asked him to. He founded the new mendicant Order of Friars Minor, or Franciscans, and helped found the Poor Clares and Franciscan Third Order.

Pope Pius XII said Francis could be called “a second Christ” and in 2013 Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio took this medieval saint’s name when he was elected pope. Francis is the patron of animals, environmentalists, merchants and Catholic Action, and also a patron of Italy.

Saints © 2013 Catholic News Service

Margaret Mary Alacoque 1647-1690 October 16

Universal Journalists. That journalists, in carrying out their work, may always be motivated by respect for truth and a strong sense of ethics.

Crosiers

This French saint, who increased devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, spent her life in Burgundy. A pious child, Margaret was bedridden from ages 9 to 15 with a rheumatic illness. She gradually understood a call to religious life, and already had a mature prayer life when she entered a Visitation convent near Lyon in 1671.

Between 1673 and 1675, she received four visions of Christ’s heart in flames, burning with love for humanity, with instructions to promote a special feast and First Friday devotions. Margaret, aided by a Jesuit priest, overcame disbelief and jealousy within her own convent and saw the feast celebrated there and in other French Visitation convents in her lifetime. She was canonized in 1920.

Saints © 2013 Catholic News Service

Evangelization

John of Capistrano 1386 - 1456 feast - October 23

Google, public domain

World Mission Day. That World Mission Day may renew within all Christian communities the joy of the Gospel and the responsibility to announce it.

See www.apostleshipofprayer.org

This Italian studied law in Perugia, where he married the daughter of a leading family and became governor of the city in 1412. Imprisoned during a civil war, he had a vision of St. Francis, followed by a spiritual conversion. Dispensed from his marriage vows, John joined the Friars Minor in 1416 and was ordained four years later. Going barefoot and wearing a hair shirt, he became a great preacher, worked diligently to reform the Franciscan orders, served as the friars’ vicar general and was named papal legate in a number of places in Europe and Palestine. He also led a wing of the Christian army in a victory against the Turks who besieged Belgrade in 1456. John is the patron of jurists and military chaplains.

Saints

CNS www.bayoucatholic.com

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M O V E D B Y

MERCY

We are called to show mercy because mercy has first been shown to us.

POPE

FRANCIS

RESPECT LIFE W W W. U S C C B . O R G / R E S P E C T L I F E

Caring for loved ones at life’s end An old Irish proverb says, “It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.” Indeed, we are created to depend upon one another and walk together in suffering. But when family members or friends approach life’s end, we may not know how best to “shelter” them. Here are some concrete ways we can compassionately care for them. n Invite God In: Pope Francis has said that “praying in difficult situations is like opening the door to the Lord, in order that he might enter.”

The dying process is a sacred time—a final season to seek closure in this life and prepare for the next in the hope of sharing in Christ’s Resurrection.

As you enter into this season with your friend or family member, ask God to accompany both of you. n Listen: Try to discover your loved one’s values and how best to honor his or her wishes.

This requires true empathy. It can be hard not to assume he or she wants the same thing you think you would want if you were in the same situation.

Listen with a non-judgmental ear so your loved one feels free to speak openly. n Inform Yourself: Be aware that wishes for refusing ordinary or proportionate treatment—or for pursuing assisted suicide—are usually rooted in fears of dependency, helplessness or pain. Make yourself available to discuss these or any concerns.

Know that hospice care focuses on alleviating pain and other symptoms, meeting basic needs and providing comfort. Seek to understand the Catholic Church’s teaching on end-of-life care, which can help you provide authentically loving support that respects life. n Be Steadfast in Compassion: As Pope Francis reminds us, “Compassion means ‘suffer with.’” Your friend or family member will likely face ups and downs. Recognize these as part of a natural process. Surround him or her with love, support and companionship that are “anchored in unconditional respect for their human dignity, beginning with respect for the inherent value of their lives.” The patient’s suffering can be alleviated by your empathy, as well as by quality hospice care by medical personnel. n Help Them Achieve Closure: Help your family member or friend define the unfinished personal projects, financial concerns, unresolved relationships or other matters that occupy his or her mind. Due to changing circumstances, some goals may need to be reframed. Creating and accomplishing this list of unfinished business can help the person discover a sense of purpose and feel more at peace. n Provide Opportunities for Resolution: Ira Byock, a hospice medical director,

a

illustrates in his book The 4 Most Important Things how saying “I love you,” “I’m sorry,” “I forgive you,” and “Thank you” can promote much-needed healing during the dying process. You can help ensure a peaceful transition for your loved one by facilitating opportunities for reconciliation with others and for mutual expressions of love and gratitude. Consider offering to invite a priest to hear his or her confession and to administer the Eucharist as viaticum and the sacrament of the anointing of the sick, all of which heal the soul and prepare us to meet the Lord.

n Reminisce: Our appetites diminish as our bodies experience a decreased need for food and fluids when we near life’s end. Provide smaller amounts of your family member or friend’s favorite foods.

Even if unable to eat them, he or she may still enjoy the aromas and reminisce with you about special memories they evoke. n Provide a Peaceful Presence: There comes a time of natural withdrawal from surroundings when dying persons may lose interest in many activities that used to be enjoyable. Your own quiet, patient presence can provide important

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support as your loved one prepares emotionally and spiritually for his or her passing. Hearing can become very acute, so placing the phone in another room, playing favorite music, reading a favorite passage, praying together or simply sitting quietly with him or her can all be very soothing. n Show Tenderness: Those who are dying remain in need of the tenderness of personal human contact. Ask if you might gently brush your loved one’s hair, apply lotion to her hands or feet, or simply hold his hand. Tell stories, laugh, and share memories to reassure the person he or she is a cherished gift, not a burden in any way. n Bear Their Transition Patiently: Transition, the time immediately preceding death, may bring rapid physical changes, such as in breathing patterns, as well as changes in mental or emotional states. Try to be patient, and allow the “how” and “when” of death to be between God and your loved one. Ask God for the wisdom to know what final words to say—if any—and when.

As you are able, give your loved one 19 permission to make the transition.

For example, you might say, “I love you. It’s okay to go home now.”

Accompanying a loved one in his or her last days is enormously important work, but we do not need to fear our own limitations. Pope Francis tells us, “[God] comes to assist us in our weakness. And his help consists in helping us accept his presence and closeness to us. Day after day, touched by his compassion, we also can become compassionate towards others.”

(Reprinted [excerpted] from Respect Life Program, copyright © 2016, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, D.C. All rights reserved.)

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Every suicide is tragic

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Proponents of doctor-assisted suicide try to draw a sharp distinction between those with a mental illness who want to end their lives and those with a terminal illness who express the same wish. They even insist we should not call the latter “suicide,” contrary to the plain meaning of the word. This is a tragically false distinction with far-reaching consequences.

Doctor-assisted suicide abandons vulnerable individuals Even among terminally ill patients, a request to die is nearly always a cry for help. This request is a distress signal indicating that something in the patient’s condition—at the medical, psychological or social level—has not been adequately attended to.

Studies show that the desire for death in terminally ill individuals generally correlates with both physical pain and poor social support.

When comfort or relief is offered in the form of more adequate treatment for depression, better pain management, or more comprehensive palliative care, the desire for death typically vanishes. In the Netherlands, for example, the request for “hastened death” was withdrawn by 85 percent of patients when their symptoms

were better controlled.

Suicidal individuals—with or without a terminal illness—typically do not want to die; they want to escape what they perceive to be an intolerable situation and they inaccurately believe that suicide is their only way out. The patient requesting assisted suicide is often asking, “Does anyone want me to be alive or care enough to talk me out of this request and support me through this difficult time?”

Among terminally ill individuals, a request to die is often associated with a potentially treatable mental

disorder such as depression or anxiety. Yet alarmingly, in Oregon, where assisted suicide has been legal since 1997, fewer than 5 percent of individuals who die by assisted suicide are ever referred for psychiatric or psychological evaluation to rule out the most common causes of suicidal thinking—and the percentage of those receiving such an evaluation is steadily decreasing.

Doctor-assisted suicide enables suicide While individuals who are at risk for suicide often contemplate and formulate suicidal plans, and

Terrebonne-Lafourche Right to Life Working to restore the right to life a labor of love.

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1201 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA 70301 (985) 446-9050 Fax: 449-0047 • www.stjosephmanor.org

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some may show warning signs, they are often ambivalent about ending their lives. The actual suicide attempt is often done impulsively, in the midst of an acute crisis or while intoxicated or emotionally distressed.

A journalist tracked down the few dozen individuals who survived jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge, which is the number one suicide spot in the world. He asked them what was going through their minds in the four seconds between jumping off the bridge and hitting the water.

Every one of them responded that they regretted the decision to jump.

One man said, “I realized that all the problems in my life that I thought were unsolvable were actually solvable—except for having just jumped.” To abandon individuals who have lost hope—under the guise of “respecting their autonomy”—is irresponsible.

Furthermore, completing a suicide generally requires not just intent (which typically waxes and wanes over time) but also easy access to means.

People tend to fixate on one specific plan. If that particular method isn’t readily available, they typically don’t choose an alternative method; they choose to live. But assisted suicide increases access to a ready means to end one’s life for those who are especially vulnerable due to a terminal illness.

Doctor-assisted suicide escalates suicide Advocates of assisted suicide claim it is a private decision, an exercise in personal autonomy that does not affect others. But there is a well-

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studied “social contagion” aspect to the behavior that can’t be ignored.

A recent study, which controlled for other factors that could account for the rise, showed that the permissive assisted suicide laws in Oregon and Washington have caused at least a six percent rise in overall suicide rates in those states. Additional data, although limited, enhances this distressing picture.

After suicide rates had

Suicidal individuals -with or without a terminal illness -typically do not want to die; they want to escape what they perceive to be an intolerable situation ...

declined in Oregon in the 1990s, they rose dramatically there between 2000 and 2010—the years following the legalization of assisted suicide in 1997. By 2012, suicide rates in Oregon were 42 percent higher than the national average.

We know that suicide is among the health-related behaviors that tend to

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spread from person to person. When a person ends his or her life, it can affect the choices of that person’s friends, as well as the choices of people at least three degrees of separation away: the friends of his or her friends’ friends. Additionally, publicized cases of suicide lead to clusters of copycat cases—known in social science as the Werther Effect.

A 2003 Swiss study, for example, showed evidence of suicide contagion following media reports of doctorassisted suicide. No one is an island.

Legalizing doctorassisted suicide wrongly communicates that some lives are not worth living Finally, the law itself is a teacher. Our laws shape cultural attitudes toward certain behaviors and influence social norms.

Laws permitting assisted suicide communicate the message that, 21 under especially difficult circumstances, some lives are not worth living. This tragically false message will be heard not only by those with a terminal illness, but by any person struggling with the temptation to end his or her life.

Every suicide is tragic. We don’t discourage suicide by assisting suicide.

(Reprinted [excerpted] from Respect Life Program, copyright © 2016, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, D.C. All rights reserved.)

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Bridges of mercy for post-abortion healing

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Maria was going back to church after her second-grader enrolled in first Communion classes. She didn’t know what to say to her daughter after being asked why she didn’t go to Communion. Maria had an abortion in her teens and felt that she couldn’t go to confession because she had committed an “unforgivable sin.”

Li and his wife, Vanessa, were attending counseling to address problems in their marriage. Li decided to finally tell Vanessa that, while in college, he had taken his former girlfriend to get an abortion. Vanessa was devastated.

Jennifer comes from a large, pro-life family that is active in their parish. At the funeral of her devout, beloved mother, Jennifer was despondent beyond the grief of her loss.

Jennifer couldn’t stop thinking that her mother in heaven would now discover the secret she had kept for 30 years: the existence of a granddaughter, whom Jennifer had aborted in college because she was too ashamed to tell her parents about her pregnancy.

When Darryl started attending a

parish men’s prayer group, he began to feel more connected than ever to his faith. But with his increasing engagement, he began to wonder

God’s healing love and mercy are always possible.

While many Catholics want to help women and men heal from past abortions, most don’t know how to begin. whether God would really forgive him for encouraging and paying for the abortion of his only child.

Maria, Vanessa, Li, Jennifer and

55+ Communit y

Darryl are among the tens of millions of Americans whose lives have been directly touched by abortion.

Like so many others, they have experienced shame, regret, guilt and unhealthy secrets. But as they have also experienced, God’s healing love and mercy are always possible.

While many Catholics want to help women and men heal from past abortions, most don’t know how to begin. Here are a few ways that Catholics of different backgrounds can assist friends, family members, fellow parishioners, clients—or perhaps even themselves: n If you are like Jennifer, who had an abortion, read the words of St. John Paul II to women who have had abortions. Be assured that it is never too late to seek God’s forgiveness in the sacrament of reconciliation and that “you can with sure hope entrust your child” to the Father and his mercy (EV 99). n If you know someone like Maria who has had an abortion, express your sympathy for her loss. Assure her of God’s unconditional love and encourage her to seek healing and forgiveness.

Explain that the church’s Project Rachel Ministry for post-abortion healing can help (www.HopeAfterAbortion. org). n If you are a priest who fears alienating parishioners, be confident that you can preach on pro-life issues with sensitivity as long as your message reminds the congregation that no matter how serious the sin, God longs to forgive every repentant heart. Many who have

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participated in abortion like Maria, Li, Jennifer, or Darryl believe they have committed the “unforgivable sin.” Your preaching can be a unique channel of God’s mercy for them, inviting them to the sacrament of reconciliation. n If you are a parish faith formation leader, become aware of the potential pastoral encounters with those hurting from past abortions like Maria or Darryl. Work with your pastor to include catechesis on forgiveness and reconciliation. n If you are a member of your parish pro-life committee, remember those

who may be suffering like Jennifer or Li. Regularly highlight information about Project Rachel Ministry and post-abortion healing using bulletins, bulletin boards, literature racks, parish webpages and e-newsletters, and any other appropriate means of communication. n If you are actively involved in public pro-life advocacy which people like Jennifer may encounter, remember to communicate with messages that are respectful, nonjudgmental and compassionate. n If you are a mental health professional who works with couples

The annual Life Chains in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux will be held on Respect Life Sunday, October 2, 2016, from 2–3 p.m. (rain or shine).

This is a peaceful and prayerful public witness of pro-life Americans standing for one hour praying for our nation and for an end to abortion. It is a visual statement of solidarity by the Christian community that abortion kills and that the church supports the sanctity of all human life from the moment of conception. If you cannot physically participate, you can spiritually participate with a

like Vanessa and Li, strive to learn more about post-abortion issues and how those you are serving may be affected. n If you are trying to be a devout parent like Jennifer’s mother was, remind your children frequently that you love them unconditionally.

Promise they can always come to you when they are troubled or have done something wrong. n If you belong to a religious community, you can help people like Maria, Vanessa, Li, Jennifer, Darryl and others by regularly praying for all who are in need of post-abortion healing. n If you don’t specifically know anyone in circumstances similar to those of the people mentioned, you still have an important mission. Keep all who suffer from post-abortion pain in your prayers and commit yourself to being an instrument of mercy.

Show by your example what it means to ask for and extend forgiveness.

All of us are sinners. Yet Pope Francis calls mercy a “bridge that 23 connects God and man, opening our hearts to the hope of being loved forever despite our sinfulness” (MV 2). The Holy Father also reminds us, “As the Father loves, so do his children. Just as he is merciful, so we are called to be merciful to each other” (MV 9). Life is a gift from God and so is his mercy. May we cherish and promote both!

All names have been changed to protect the privacy of those mentioned.

(Reprinted [excerpted] from Respect Life Program, copyright © 2016, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, D.C. All rights reserved.)

prayer chain from your home or church during this hour.

Those participating in the Houma Life Chain will line the median of Tunnel Boulevard in Houma.

The Thibodaux Life Chain participants will line Canal Boulevard in Thibodaux.

The Larose Life Chain participants will stand in the front yard of Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Larose.

Join with other pro-life Christians to make a statement to our community that “ABORTION KILLS CHILDREN.” www.bayoucatholic.com

Heavenly Recipes

y’s r a g n o c a e d

Crab and Shrimp Stew Story and Photos

by Lawrence Chatagnier

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This month’s heavenly recipe, crab and shrimp stew, comes from Deacon Gary Lapeyrouse. The native of Chauvin says he is thankful that he has the opportunity to minister to the people he grew up with. His current assignment is at St. Joseph Church parish in Chauvin. Deacon Gary became interested in cooking at a very early age. “I can remember watching my mom and dad cook when I was about eight or nine years old.

Where I grew up it is not uncommon for men to cook. My grandfather was a commercial fisherman who had to cook for he and his crew while on a shrimp boat for days on end.”

Deacon Gary also attributes a man he knew many years ago, a coworker named Hayward “Buck” Theriot for teaching him how to cook for large groups. “I can remember Buck used to cook jambalaya very often. His jambalaya was very good and the flavor was consistent every time he made it.

That is something that is very hard to do when cooking for a large amount of people.”

The deacon feels that cooking helps him correlate everyday challenges with “stewing” to the congregation when preaching. “What I enjoy cooking the most are stews. I often use cooking, especially stews as an analogy in my homilies. In preparation to bring a dish like a crab stew together it takes time as the roux cooks for all the flavors and seasonings to come together. It has to simmer or stew. It takes many years of stewing to know who Jesus truly is. In relationships it takes time for people to ‘stew’ and get to know one another in order to be able to know the needs of the other person.”

Deacon Gary and his wife Michelle, who teaches at South Terrebonne High School, have three children and have been involved in youth ministry for many years. They also facilitate the FOCCUS instrument with engaged couples in their church parish. “It was Michelle who got me involved in youth ministry. She was involved in the CCD program at St. Ann Church in Bourg.

Michelle was the youth minister at St. Ann for many years. I started by helping with the CCD program. It Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

inspired me to open the Bible and learn about the Scriptures and eventually become a teacher. Anyone who knows me knows that I love youth ministry. I find peace in my ministry. My ministry is to help the diocesan youth ministry any way I can. It is something Michelle and I are able to do together.”

It was through their involvement with young adult ministry in 2003 when he was approached by Father Peter Tai Le about becoming a deacon. He says that he and Michelle were having difficulties that were putting a strain on their marriage. “I figured I couldn’t figure out things on my own and I began the formation process for the permanent diaconate. I knew it would lead to something more but I didn’t know what. After much discernment and through formation in the program our faith and marriage has grown. It affected us in a positive way. It also created a great atmosphere in the home. I believe it was that atmosphere that is responsible for our son Brett’s decision to seek the priesthood as a vocation. He is in his second year of theology at Notre Dame Seminary.”

The couple also has a child they

“adopted.” Michelle helped a young girl who was from a broken family with many problems while going through the RCIA process with her and became her godmother. “Had we not been where we were spiritually we probably would not have been able to handle the difficult times in the beginning of her living with us. We have all come a long way together.”

Deacon Gary and Michelle are in a transition stage with their residence.

They recently sold their home in Bourg and are renting a house in Houma. You could say they are “stewing” over their decision as to where to live next.

Bayou Petit Caillou Crab and Shrimp Stew 1 dozen medium to large fresh crabs 1 quart peeled small shrimp (50-60 count or smaller) 1/2 quart lump white and claw meat, mixed 2 stalks fresh celery 1 medium to large fresh bell pepper 2 medium to large onions 1 small can of whole stewed peeled tomatoes 4 cups all-purpose flour as needed

Vegetable oil as needed Water or seafood stock for desired thickness Creole seasoning Salt Black pepper Liquid crab boil – start with one cap full (the cap of the bottle it comes in) Granulated garlic

Clean the crab bodies. Shrimp should be as fresh as possible, peeled and if medium to large, de-veined. Make the roux the way you like it.

Start adding other ingredients to the roux. Remove the pot from the heat and keep stirring until it cools enough that the roux stops cooking. Add the diced onions while stirring. After the onions and roux comes together, start adding the liquid.

Whether water or stock, it must be cool and not hot. Place mixture back on the fire at a medium to high level.

Add bell pepper, celery, crab boil, tomatoes with the sauce from the can, and enough liquid until the pot is 2/3 to 3/4 full. With the pot uncovered, heat to a slow rolling boil. Slowly lower the fire and let simmer; add water or stock as the liquid evaporates. Start tasting for seasoning. This stage will take 2 to 3 hours or more, depending on how dark the roux is.

Add crab meat and the fresh crabs. Cook on a medium fire boiling slowly for about 10 minutes, add shrimp. Shrimp only need a couple of minutes to fully cook so do not add too early because they will become mushy and fall apart.

Sprinkle a generous amount of dried parsley and serve over rice.

Young Voices Since God created everything, all life is sacred. We should always strive to be Christlike in our daily lives and respect life in every way. We need to stress to today’s youth that all lives matter, regardless of a person’s circumstances, ALL lives are valuable. I think that all youth should keep attending weekly Mass and participate in retreats and pilgrimages like March for Life to keep their faith strong and to keep Jesus in their hearts.

Liam McCloy, 17 years old Holy Cross Church parish Central Catholic High School

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Today’s youth can foster respect for all human life by starting to love themselves first. If you love yourself then that makes you see that other people’s mistakes are nothing and therefore respect is given. The youth of today has to take in mind that one of the elements in God’s commandments is to protect human life. Showing love and admiration to any person and the life of the person is what results in respect. When the person receives love, admiration and respect they will feel amazing. And because all human life is sacred from the moment of conception until natural death we have to realize that no matter the condition God’s plan has a purpose. It’s also important that we encourage others to walk in their faith.

Maria Espejo, 18 years old Sacred Heart Church parish, Cut Off Nicholls State University

All human life is sacred from the first moment of conception until the time of natural death.

How can today’s youth foster respect for all human life?

Jonathan Daniel Moore, 17 years old St. Louis Church parish Central Lafourche High School In the very beginning of life, the moment of conception is a gift from God. Before that moment God knew each and every one of us, he knew our struggles ahead and had a plan already set in line for us. The one thing that makes life “sacred” from the time of conception to the time of natural death is God’s gift of free will. He gave us the gift to find his love for ourselves. We were created to worship him. That’s what makes life so “sacred.”

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Lauren Robichaux, 16 years old St. Joseph Church parish, Chauvin South Terrebonne High School The youth today can foster respect for human life by leading by example and standing true to God’s word and teachings.

We need to take advantage of opportunities in our daily lives to stand up for life and defend the Gospel rather than what the media and today’s society tells us.

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Seminarian Education Burses

What is a seminarian burse fund?

A seminarian burse 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 Houma-Thibodaux.

How does someone establish a seminarian burse fund?

Very simply, a burse may be established and named for anyone you choose, be it family, friend, bishop, priest, deacon, religious, etc.

When is a seminarian burse complete?

A seminarian burse fund is complete once it reaches $15,000.

If you choose to continue to contribute, a new burse will be created for you.

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

To contribute or establish a burse, send funds to Pastoral Center, Attn: Seminarian Burse, P. O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395 or call Jeremy Becker, Director of Stewardship and Development, at 985-850-3155 for more information.

Completed Burses of $15,000 each

Note: those wtih a number stipulates the number 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 & Fly - Donald Peltier, Sr. (3)* - Harvey Peltier (30)* - Richard Peltier - The Peltier Foundation () - Orleans & Louella Pitre - Msgr. Joseph Wester - Robert R. Wright, Jr. - Rev. Kermit Trahan - St. Bernadette Men’s Club - Diocesan K of C - Leighton Delahaye - Mrs. Shirley Conrad - Bishop Shelton Fabre - Elizabeth Hebert - Endowment Fund - $119,136.90

August 2016 Burse Contributions Elizabeth Hebert ........................................... $15,000.00 The Peltier Foundation ................................. $15,000.00 Msgr. James B. Songy ....................................... $500.00 Brides of the Most Blessed Trinity .................... $340.00 Catholic Daughters ............................................ $200.00 Warren J Harang, Jr. #2 ..................................... $100.00 Dean Joseph Chiasson ......................................... $50.00

Open Burses with Balance as of 8/31/16 Sidney J. & Lydie C. Duplantis ........... $13,000.00 Donald Peltier, Sr. #4 ............................ $13,000.00 Joseph Strada Memorial ...................... $12,642.63 Msgr. Raphael C. Labit #2 .................. $11,080.00 Harvey Peltier #31 .............................. $10,486.91 Joseph Waitz, Sr. ................................. $10,100.00 Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis #2 .......... $10,000.00 C. Remie Duplantis #2 ........................ $10,000.00 Marie Elise Duplantis #2 ..................... $10,000.00 Maude & Edith Daspit #2 .................... $10,000.00 Msgr. George A. Landry ...................... $10,000.00 Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier ................. $9,000.00 Elie & Dot Klingman .............................. $8,960.00 Rev. Victor Toth ..................................... $7,000.00 Brides of the Most Blessed Trinity ......... $6,505.00 Msgr. William Koninkx ........................... $6,000.00 Rev. Peter Nies ..................................... $5,900.00 Msgr. Francis Amedee ........................... $5,150.00 Mr. & Mrs. Love W. Pellegrin ................. $5,000.00 Anonymous #2 ...................................... $5,000.00 Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis Fmly.#4..... $5,000.00 Rev. William M. Fleming ........................ $5,000.00 Mrs. Ayres A. Champagne ..................... $5,000.00 Society of St. Joseph .............................. $5,000.00 Catholic Daughters ................................ $4,905.00 Rev. Kasimir Chmielewski ..................... $4,839.00 Rev. Gerard Hayes ................................ $4,786.00 Joseph “Jay” Fertitta .............................. $4,450.00

Rev. Guy Zeringue ................................ $4,400.00 Rev. Henry Naquin ................................. $4,331.00 Harry Booker #2 .................................... $4,138.00 Kelly Curole Frazier ............................... $3,610.96 Msgr. James Songy ............................... $3,575.00 J. R. Occhipinti ...................................... $3,400.00 Anawin Community ............................... $3,400.00 Mr. & Mrs. Galip Jacobs ........................ $3,060.00 St. Jude ................................................. $3,000.00 Diocesan K of C #2 ............................... $2,894.62 Rev. Peter H. Brewerton ........................ $2,600.00 Warren J. Harang, Jr. #2 ......................... $2,200.00 Willie & Emelda St. Pierre ...................... $2,000.00 Rev. H. C. Paul Daigle ........................... $1,900.00 James J. Buquet, Jr. ............................... $1,650.00 Alfrances P. Martin ................................. $1,650.00 Preston & Gladys Webre ........................ $1,650.00 Msgr. Francis J. Legendre #2 ................ $1,645.00 Rev. Robert J. Sevigny .......................... $1,600.00 Rev. John Gallen .................................... $1,600.00 Rev. Hubert C. Broussard ...................... $1,550.00 Msgr. Emile J. Fossier ........................... $1,545.00 Dr. William Barlette, Sr........................... $1,525.00 Msgr. Stanislaus Manikowski ................ $1,525.00 Mr. & Mrs. John Marmande .................... $1,500.00 Deacon Robert Dusse’ ........................... $1,450.00 Msgr. John L. Newfield .......................... $1,200.00 Jacob Marcello ....................................... $1,200.00

Deacon Connely Duplantis ..................... $1,175.00 Rev. Anthony Rousso ............................. $1,150.00 Ronnie Haydel ....................................... $1,035.00 Rev. Clemens Schneider ....................... $1,000.00 Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux #4 ........... $1,000.00 Msgr. John G. Keller .............................. $1,000.00 Judge Louis & Shirley R. Watkins .............. $950.00 Deacon Willie Orgeron ............................. $800.00 Ruby Pierce .............................................. $800.00 Deacon Roland Dufrene ........................... $750.00 Juliette & Eugene Wallace ......................... $700.00 Deacon Edward J. Blanchard ................... $660.00 Edna W. DiSalvo ....................................... $600.00 Deacon Raymond LeBouef ...................... $550.00 Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Cannata .................... $500.00 Bernice Harang ......................................... $400.00 Anne Veron Aguirre ................................... $380.00 Dean Joseph Chiasson ............................. $350.00 Deacon Harold Kurtz ................................ $300.00 Richard Peltier #2 ..................................... $300.00 Claude Bergeron ...................................... $250.00 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Naquin .......................... $150.00 Deacon Pedro Pujals ................................ $100.00 Deacon Eldon Frazier .............................. $ 50.00 Deacon Nick Messina .............................. $ 50.00 Rev. Warren Chassaniol ........................... $ 50.00

Overall Seminarian Burse Totals: $1,603,911.02 www.bayoucatholic.com

27

Entertainment

Seeing Clairely Claire Joller

A 28

A joyous occasion, our tenth wedding anniversary. We had planned a special night to celebrate at the Blue Room of the Roosevelt Hotel, that now-extinct bastion of New Orleans’ finer showplaces for big-name talent.

For weeks we had anticipated hearing Robert Goulet in person.

We booked a babysitter far in advance, pulled out our finest clothing, and left ourselves plenty of time to get to the posh hotel for dinner and the show. We were admiring the ornate lobby as we waited in the short line that had formed at the Blue Room’s doors.

I spotted the couple first. In a panic, I turned my back and nudged my husband to do the same as they rounded one of the massive columns, heading straight for the waiting line.

Because they were in an amorous tete-a-tete, they didn’t see anyone else for a few seconds. This college classmate and onetime neighbor of ours was now a VIP in our state. And the woman was not his wife.

“Please, please, let them turn away,” I thought as my heart pounded faster. But no, they kept coming. We resigned ourselves

SINCE FAST st Intere Free cing Finan

Wrong place,

wrong time to the inevitable, and moved back into a normal stance. We saw when he glanced up and spotted us just yards away. He dropped his arm from around her waist, as though physically stricken. While she looked puzzled, we could see that he was debating whether to change their course or to hold his ground.

He chose the latter.

Nobody stood behind us, so there was no buffer between us and them. We exchanged awkward greetings, and he introduced his attractive assistant. The few words we spoke were strained, but after a short cold silence, he asked about our daughter, who was born while his young family lived next door.

In return, as though this was a normal situation, I asked about his wife and children. He had the grace to look a bit embarrassed as he mumbled his answer.

Thankfully, the grand doors opened just at that moment. We,

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the nobodies, were seated in the semicircle of tables closest to the performer’s platform while he, the VIP, disappeared into the far back corner of the room. We enjoyed the evening as best we could. But it was tarnished by our unwelcome discovery.

Another éclat came a few years later. While traveling to St. Louis to visit Emil’s family, we had car trouble and had to stop for help. In that random place, we met someone whom we realized we were never supposed to find out about. We made sure not to say a word about it to anyone, but heard later that what we had innocently stumbled upon caused (temporary) turmoil in that family.

What forces were at work, we ask ourselves, to place us all those years ago where we would have preferred not to be, to inform us of things we’d have preferred not to know?

Tub to Shower Conversions Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

STEVE DECELL

Aging-In-Place Consultant

One Install day ation

Walk-in Tubs

Book Reviews

Reading with Raymond Raymond Saadi

The Electric Pencil Hemingway in Love A Memoir by A.E. Hotchner St. Martin’s Press $19.99

Bill O’Reilly’s Legends & Lies The Patriots

By David Fisher Henry Holt $35 Forget most of what you learned in school about our forefathers who heroically “brought forth a new nation”? O’Reilly, a former high school history teacher here ironically, debunks much of the “lies” attached to the legends.

The book is filled with paintings and illustrations describing major events that precipitated the Revolution; the Stamp Act, and Boston Massacre, among others all the way to Betsy Ross and our first flag. It’s a fitting tribute to the heroes who gave us our freedom.

Hotchner, an acclaimed writer in his own right, has only now put in writing details of his close friendship with famous author, Hemingway. For over a decade he noted details of Hemingway’s life and loves as they met, ate, drank and caroused, all the while hearing stories from the mater himself. It’s a fascinating and intimate portrait of one of the greatest writers of our time.

By James Edward Deeds Jr. Princeton Architectural Press $29.95 This is a remarkable book, not only for the fact that the pencil and crayon drawings were made by 26 year old Deeds confined to a mental hospital for life. Deeds had no training in art and not even paint, palette or inks. He drew what he remembered and what he imagined on hospital ledger sheets.

Remarkable, too, that the drawings 29 were rescued from a trash heap by a 14 year old boy.

The Witch of Lime Street

By David Jaher Crown $28 If you are, like me, an admirer of the great illusionist and escape artist, Houdini, you’ll be enthralled by this confrontation between him and a famous spiritualist, known simply as “Margery.” Promoted by spiritualist devotee’, Arthur Conan Doyle, the author of Sherlock Holmes adventures, Margery conducted a series of séances sponsored by Scientific American magazine, to prove or disprove her ability to contact the dead. Houdini was one of the many witnesses and the most feared by the “Witch of Lime Street.”

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Bayou Patrons

Our Lady of Prompt Succor Patroness of Louisiana, hasten to our help Story by Janet Marcel Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

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Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Chackbay

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Continuing our Bayou Patrons series, this month’s featured saint is the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of Prompt Succor, principal patroness of Louisiana. Pope Pius IX authorized the public devotion to this Marian title Sept. 21, 1851, and designated Jan. 8 as its feast day.

According to the Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor’s website, (www. shrineofourladyofpromptsuccor.com/history-of-thedevotion), Mother St. Michel, an Ursuline sister, while praying before a statue of the Blessed Mother for a response from the Pope granting her permission to go to New Orleans, was inspired to say, “O most holy Virgin Mary, if you obtain a prompt and favorable answer to my letter, I promise to have you honored in New Orleans under the title of Our Lady of Prompt Succor.” Mother St. Michel, her companions and the statue arrived in New Orleans in December 1810.

Two favors granted through the intercession of Our Lady of Prompt Succor were significant to the city of New Orleans and its people.

The first has to do with a fire that threatened the city and the Ursuline Convent. Frightened residents joined the sisters in the convent chapel, begging Our Lady to save them and their homes from the raging wind and flames. As the blaze drew too near, the Mother Superior ordered all to evacuate the chapel.

One of the sisters put a small statue of Mary with her Son in a window facing the approaching fire, with the prayer “Our Lady, unless you hasten to save us we are lost!” Within minutes, the wind turned back on itself; the fire lost its momentum and burned out, leaving the remainder of the city unharmed.

The second concerns the Battle of New Orleans on Jan, 8, 1815. As Andrew Jackson and his small, littleprepared, ill-equipped band of soldiers organized their defenses against the large, very well equipped British army, many citizens joined the Ursuline Sisters in an all-night vigil imploring Our Lady of Prompt Succor to give the victory to Jackson, thus saving the city of New Orleans from British control. The Mother Superior promised Our Lady that if Jackson and his men won, a Mass of thanksgiving would be celebrated every year in her honor. During a Mass at dawn, a courier rushed into the chapel announcing that Andrew Jackson and his men had won the battle.

Mary’s help, under the title of Our Lady of Prompt Succor has been sought ever since, both in times of war and during the threat of hurricanes, a persistent peril on the Gulf Coast.

Father Sabino Rebosura II, pastor of Our Lady of

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Chackbay

Prompt Succor in Chackbay since July 2015, says he has had a relationship with the Blessed Mother since he was a child growing up in the Philippines.

He has a devotion to the rosary because his mother and grandmother brought him up praying the rosary.

Father Rebosura recalls playing outside in the

evening as a young boy and being called inside by his grandmother at 6 o’clock to pray The Angelus.

His home parish in the Philippines was Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, the seminary he attended was the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and he studied theology with the Dominicans. He also notes that the Filipino people in general have an avid devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help, so he is very familiar with the Blessed Mother under many different titles. “I ask the Blessed Mother every day to help me be a good and holy priest,” says Father Rebosura.

In the Chackbay parish, the parishioners pray a Novena to Our Lady of Prompt Succor every Wednesday, and they pray the rosary before every daily Mass. Father Rebosura says in his parish they pray, “In the battle of abortion, Our Lady of Prompt Succor, patroness of Louisiana, hasten to our help” – at the end of each decade of the rosary.

There is no written history to be found about the naming of the parish in Chackbay.

Father Joseph “Henry” Sebastian, M.S.F.S., pastor of Our Lady of Prompt Succor in Golden Meadow since June 2012, says his acquaintance with the mother of God goes back to his minor seminary days at Ettumanoor, Kerala, India, in 1978 when it was customary to visit the grotto of the Blessed Mother after Mass every day. This helped him to develop a special relationship with her that has grown over the years, largely due to his diaconate ministry at St. Mary’s Basilica in Bengaluru and his last five pastoral assignments in parishes dedicated to our Blessed Mother. “My coming to Golden Meadow has intensified the filial love I have for her,” says Father Sebastian. “Within two months of my arrival in Golden Meadow, Hurricane Isaac struck our area and I was given the firsthand knowledge of what

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Bayou Patrons

Our Lady of Prompt Succor

Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Golden Meadow

devastation a hurricane could cause. This not only made me realize she is very prompt in helping the suffering people but also drew me all the more closer to her. From then onward, the hurricane prayer became more personal and meaningful to me.”

He explains that one morning while spending some time before the Blessed Sacrament, he heard a loud voice saying, “you have to pray all four mysteries of the rosary every day,” to which he replied, “I can’t and will not; because certain days praying one rosary itself is too much and I can’t think of praying all four mysteries every day.”

After struggling with that demand for several weeks, he sought the advice of a brother priest who told him, “If Mother Mary has asked you to pray all four mysteries of the rosary every day, you just do it.”

“That was the defining moment in my life and I haven’t failed since then,” says Father Sebastian. “It has brought a lot of positive changes in me. I always experience an inner joy and have less time for useless things. She always asks me to live in God’s presence.

This newly found life has led me to guide the parishioners by telling them that the more they pray the rosary the less time they will have for unwanted things like gossiping, the internet, TV, etc.”

Father Sebastian introduced praying the rosary before each Mass which he says has been well received by the parishioners. The parish also honored the Blessed Mother by installing a statue of Our Lady of Prompt Succor in front of the church this year for its 100th anniversary. “It is my sincere hope that those who see the statue will be reminded of her prompt help and unfailing vigilance and move closer to her son Jesus,” says the priest.

According to the history of the church parish in Golden Meadow, many of its parishioners are descendants of those who fled the coastal village of Cheniere Caminada after it was destroyed by a devastating hurricane in 1893. When the parish was established in the year 1916, Archbishop Blenk made no specific designation for a parish patron. The parish’s first pastor used the name of his own patron, St. Yves. In 1918, Father Euclid J. Blanchet changed the name of the parish to Our Lady of Prompt Succor.

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

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Voting takes study, reflection and prayer

Guest Columnist

S 34

Robert D. Gorman

So, have you heard that there’s an election this year?

O.K., seriously, the question many people are asking is: Who am I going to vote for? Catholics may be asking: Who can I, as a Catholic, vote for? Well, there is no Catholic voting card.

However, for the past 10 years the U.S. Catholic Bishops have overwhelmingly supported and updated their document Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship that can help us answer that question. But it takes study, reflection and prayer.

As the Bishops say in Faithful Citizenship, “In this statement, we bishops do not intend to tell Catholics for whom or against whom to vote. Our purpose is to help Catholics form their consciences in accordance with God’s truth.”

With our ubiquitous access to social media it’s tempting to be intellectually and morally lazy - to disregard the distinction between facts and opinions or to ignore the moral consequences of political proposals. Regardless of our political affiliation, it’s easy to find pundits or politicians who echo what we want to hear.

Read Faithful Citizenship:

http://www.usccb.org/issues-andaction/faithful-citizenship/index. cfm or find the link on our Catholic Charities website: http://www. htdiocese.org/catholic-charities.

It’s worth the time.

Many Catholics start with a candidate’s position on abortion. Is abortion an intrinsic evil in Catholic Social Teaching (CST)? Yes it is.

The Life and Dignity of the Human Person is the first principle of CST. Are there other intrinsic evils? Yes, including euthanasia, genocide, torture, targeting noncombatants in war and acts of racism, among others. As Catholics we can never support intrinsic evil.

As Catholics, however, we are called not only to oppose evil, but to do good and to call our elected officials to the same.

“The right to life,” say our Catholic Bishops, “implies and is linked to other human rights—to the basic goods that every human person needs to live and thrive. All the life issues are connected, for erosion of respect for the life of any individual or group in society necessarily diminishes respect for all life. The moral imperative to respond to the needs of our neighbors—basic needs such as food, shelter, health care, education and meaningful work—is universally binding on our consciences and may be legitimately fulfilled by a variety of means. Catholics must seek

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the best ways to respond to these needs.”

So how does this do us any good when we’re deciding how to vote?

First of all, say the bishops, “two temptations in public life can distort the church’s defense of human life and dignity: The first is a moral equivalence that makes no ethical distinctions between different kinds of issues involving human life and dignity. The direct and intentional destruction of innocent human life from the moment of conception until natural death is always wrong and is not just one issue among many. It must always be opposed.”

“The second is the misuse of these necessary moral distinctions as a way of dismissing or ignoring other serious threats to human life and dignity. The current and projected extent of environmental degradation has become a moral crisis especially because it poses a risk to humanity in the future and threatens the lives of poor and vulnerable human persons here and now. Racism and other unjust discrimination, the use of the death penalty, resorting to unjust war, the use of torture, war crimes, the failure to respond to those who are suffering from hunger or a lack of health care, pornography, redefining civil marriage, compromising religious liberty, or an unjust

a

immigration policy are all serious moral issues that challenge our consciences and require us to act. These are not optional concerns which can be dismissed.

Catholics are urged to seriously consider church teaching on these issues.”

I can’t think of any candidates for any office who have ever been in line with all of the principles of Catholic Social Teaching. So we are usually left with imperfect choices and this year is no different.

However, the bishops point out that one thing never changes: “A Catholic cannot vote for a candidate who favors a policy promoting an intrinsically evil act, such as abortion, euthanasia, assisted suicide, deliberately subjecting workers or the poor to subhuman living conditions, redefining marriage in ways that violate its essential meaning, or racist behavior, if the voter’s intent is to support that position. In such cases, a Catholic

would be guilty of formal cooperation in grave evil.”

In other words, as Catholics we can’t support an intrinsic evil and we can’t vote for someone if the reason we are voting for them is because they support an intrinsic evil.

However, the bishops point out that there “may be times when a Catholic who rejects a candidate’s unacceptable position even on policies promoting an intrinsically evil act may reasonably decide to vote for that candidate for other morally grave reasons. Voting in this way would be permissible only for truly grave moral reasons, not to advance narrow interests or partisan preferences or to ignore a fundamental moral evil.”

Note the words “morally grave reasons … not to advance partisan preferences … .” So just because you always vote for one party, doesn’t mean you always should if your party’s current candidate is unacceptable for morally grave reasons.

So that makes it easy, right? No, it’s not easy – it’s challenging. It takes study, reflection and prayer and, as Catholics, we are called respond to the challenge.

Heed the words of Pope Francis in a speech on Sept.

16, 2013: “We need to participate for the common good.

Sometimes we hear: a good Catholic is not interested in politics. This is not true: good Catholics immerse themselves in politics by offering the best of themselves so that the leader can govern.”

(Robert D. Gorman is the diocesan coordinator of Social Ministries and executive director of Catholic Charities Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.)

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Church Life

Guest Columnist

World Mission Sunday: Mercy changes the world

Father Robert-Joel Cruz

P 36

Peace!

A great day is coming – and you can be part of it!

October 23 – World Mission Sunday – is a special day for all of us who are called, by baptism, to be involved in the missionary work of the church. On that Sunday, every nation, even the poorest mission countries, contributes to the mission needs of the church worldwide.

World Mission Sunday truly belongs to the world, celebrated in every country, in every diocese and in every parish.

World Mission Sunday allows you to connect with the world … with the Americas, where catechists travel to remote areas to bring the Good News of God’s great love to families; with Europe, where new churches are being built to welcome faith communities, renewed after years of persecution; with Asia, where six million children receive an education from religious sisters in some 16,000 churchrun elementary schools; with the Pacific Islands, where 1,000 young men are preparing for the priesthood, to bring the Lord’s healing hope and peace to those in

need; with Africa, where those who are sick are provided with loving care at 6,400 Catholic hospitals and small clinics.

Please pray for the people of the missions and for missionaries, and please offer generous help to provide for the work of the mission church in pastoral service, education, health care and community outreach.

Whatever you can contribute to the collection for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith will be a great blessing to local priests, religious and lay catechists serving communities in need across our globe.

Asking the Lord to bless you for your generous missionary spirit, I am Father Robert-Joel Cruz, di-

Pray and give generously

World Mission Sunday October 23, 2016 The Society for the Propagation of the Faith a Pontifical Mission Society

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

ocesan director for The Society for the Propagation of the Faith, 1220 Aycock Street, Houma, LA 70360.

Whatever you can contribute to the collection for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith will be a great blessing to local priests, religious and lay catechists throughout Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Europe and Latin America.

All for the Greater Glory of God! (For more about this important celebration of the universal church, please visit our special World Mission Sunday website: www.

IAmAMissionary.org. For more on staying “in touch” with the changemakers of the mission church every day, in real time, visit Missio.org and download the Missio app.) …all of us are called to be on mission

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The primary responsibility of principal is to provide leadership and to work closely with a leadership team. The desirable candidate demonstrates a strong Catholic faith and excellent skills in communication and collaboration. The candidate should hold a master’s degree or higher in school leadership and credentials to obtain a Mississippi educator license in administration.

Qualified candidates should email a letter of interest and resume to cathy.cook@jacksondiocese.org by October 15, 2016.

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Strategic Planning update Recommendations made during the priests’ convocation; Fall commissions are underway

By Blanca Robinson Our diocesan strategic planning has entered into Phase Two with a series of new commissions that launched in September and October. Five of the six spring commissions (Stewardship, Diocesan Governance, Parish Model, Formation and Youth Ministry) will also continue throughout the fall.

The work of the sixth commission (Priests) is merging into the new Sunday Commission.

The work of three of the commissions (Parish Model, Formation and Youth) is closely intertwined.

These commissions came to a consensus in their recommendations to the priests (at their convocation in August) that the primary role of a church parish is to form mis38 sionary disciples. Pope Francis, who echoes the words of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Gospels, has challenged all of us to be missionary disciples, structuring our lives to live with Jesus and not merely for Jesus.

After much research and discernment, the commission recommendations to the priests indicated that in order for parishes to thrive, priests must have ample time “to be priests” – having ample time for preparation for preaching, availability for celebration of the sacraments, and availability for leading people to Christ. The

experience at Sunday’s liturgy is becoming increasingly more important in evangelizing “today’s” Catholic. This includes well-prepared homilies that are relevant to people’s lives and perhaps build from week to week.

Parishes should radiate a very warm and welcoming feel where people have a feeling and sense of belonging. Because there is a need for strong engaged lay and pastoral leadership, the commissions intend to further research, and eventually articulate, concrete ways that parishes can surround pastors with strong lay pastoral leadership so that pastors can focus on distinctly “priestly” ministry. This includes ways to find these lay leaders and provide opportunities to adequately form and train them.

Parishes must become more proactive in forming disciples. The commissions recommended that in order for parishes to intentionally form disciples, there has to be a process, or “road map” of sorts.

The commissions will be further researching existing programs to determine how they fit into the “road map” along with other programs, events and initiatives that are successful in forming adults and young adults. The end result is to help parishes improve the quality of formation for adults

and young adults. Furthermore, to facilitate these programs it is necessary to foster lay leadership so that pastors are not responsible for all aspects of formation. These lay leaders must be adequately formed and trained.

There is also a strong need to provide mentoring and catechesis for today’s youth, plus relevant and successful programming for young children. As the saying goes – “it starts in the home.” To develop an integrated holistic vision for youth formation, parishes must assist families to be the primary teachers of faith to youth. Coupled with that is a need to increase the quality and competency of adult mentors helping with youth ministry and catechesis, and how best to adequately form and train adult leaders to provide more relevant catechesis.

During the fall commission meetings, commission members will continue to research the sequential steps in forming missionary disciples. If anyone is interested in becoming more involved with the strategic planning process, please visit the diocesan website www.htdiocese.org/sp to view all the planning commissions and their meeting dates.

(Blanca Robinson is the communications specialist for strategic planning.)

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Special

E.D. White

turns

Story by Janet Marcel Photos by Kaye Constant and Lawrence Chatagnier E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux can trace its roots as far back as 1855 when Pere’ Charles Menard recognized the need for Catholic education in Thibodaux. He brought the first Sisters of Mount Carmel to Thibodaux and Mount Carmel Academy opened Oct. 1, 1855.

In 1861, Pere Menard opened Thibodaux College for boys under Catholic auspices, and in 1891, asked the Brothers of the Sacred Heart to manage the school.

Both schools operated separately until the fall of 1965, when Mount Carmel Academy and Thibodaux College merged into a co-institutional school named Thibodaux Central Catholic High School.

In the spring of 1966, the school was renamed Edward Douglas White Catholic High School by (the late) Archbishop Philip Hannan, in memory of the Honorable Edward Douglas White, a devout Catholic from Thibodaux, who served as Supreme Court Chief Justice from 1910-1921.

The school is celebrating its 50th anniversary this school year with the theme, “E.D. White Catholic High School: Celebrating 50 Years.” The school’s current principal is Michelle Chiasson, who has been serving in that role since the 2011-2012 school year. Tim Robichaux was appointed the school’s president beginning with the 2014-2015 school year.

Approximately 790 students are currently enrolled at the school.

Chiasson says one of the biggest factors that has made E.D. White so successful over the last 50 years is the Thibodaux community itself. “Family is at the heart of this community. We are seeing third and fourth generation students here right now. So many people have a vested interest in the school because they attended, their children attended and their grandchildren attended. It’s not just a school; it is part of the faith life of the community.”

Another factor in the success of the school is its Catholicity or spirituality; it just makes things run a lot smoother when you have that faith to fall back on, says Robichaux. “The strength of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart and the Sisters of Mount Carmel and their philosophy still permeates the school. People feel at home here, it’s just a comfortable place to be. There are no sisters on staff but we still have four Brothers of the Sacred Heart involved in day-to-day activities of the school.”

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

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Chiasson says when she attended the school, she never imagined a time when the Brothers of the Sacred Heart wouldn’t be there to run the school, but they knew there was a possibility that their numbers would dwindle someday, so they created a very intentional mentorship program for lay leaders called the Coindre Leadership Program after Brother Andre Coindre, founder of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

The program takes approximately seven years to complete. Participants are assigned a mentor, attend monthly meetings, and travel to France and Rome, where they become immersed in the whole philosophy of the Brothers and are able to pass that on to others. Chiasson currently serves as a mentor in the program.

“We have an amazing, dedicated faculty,” says Chiasson. “That has always been a constant at the school.” All five of the school’s administrators are alumni of E.D. White and about 30 percent of the faculty graduated from the school, which the administrator says is really a testament to the positive experience students have here.

Chiasson believes the evolution of technology has been the biggest change in the school over the last 50 years. “We went from chalkboards and overhead projectors to Wi-Fi, Apple TV, one-to-one iPads to students going almost paperless. They have adapted to that so well, but we fought it for several years. The students would get connected to their gadgets and we would tell them to pick all of it up and take out a sheet of paper and a pen; they would get angry and were resistant to that. They appreciate that the school is now meeting them on their level, because that’s how they learn and how they adapt.

Robichaux adds that there is a different way of teaching now. “It’s becoming more of a collaborative learning process as opposed to sitting in a desk with the teacher lecturing to you while you take notes. There is more peer-tutoring, working in small groups and flipping classes.” The school

Tim Robichaux, president of E.D. White Catholic High School, and Michelle Chiasson, principal, look through a special book that was created for the school’s 50th anniversary.

offers an Academic Enhancement resource program that is designed to help students with various learning differences. There are 162 students enrolled in the program this year.

The administrators say that the alumni are very supportive of the school and in the last few years the school has been reaching out even more to keep in touch with not only those graduates in the area but also those who have moved away through a new webpage. A lot of alumni are parents of current students so they are already involved with what’s going on at the school.

Robichaux says he has been overwhelmed by the generosity and support of the donors in the community. “A perfect example of this is that since May 2015, after we got approval from the diocese to start a few academic projects, we raised $1.8 million in cash and commitments, with $1.3 million of that in cash. This pouring out of generosity is a good sign for the school because it shows us they support what we are doing.” The school received over 250 donations, big and small, in addition to the annual fund.

“We are excited right now in that the new strategic planning process

for the schools through AdvancED is a living process where the vision is to always be mindful of the 41 changes in education and never get to comfortable where we are.

We always need to be looking ahead so that we can anticipate and keep meeting the needs of our students. We’re very mindful of the vision but also with connecting that vision to day-to-day operations. And, certainly we need to set ourselves apart as a Catholic school and as a school of academic excellence,” says Chiasson.

Looking ahead 10 to 15 years, Chiasson hopes that the school has a larger enrollment with more financial assistance available through ACE and ARÊTE scholarships. She also would like to see some new facilities, at least 10 Advanced Placement courses being offered to students, and more dual enrollment classes offered in partnership with Nicholls State University.

“An ultimate dream of mine is to have students remain alcohol free for the five years they are at E.D. White. We have been making a concerted effort in this direction and have been getting more and more support,” says Chiasson.

“With regard to the future, I feel like we are on a very good

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Special

E.D. White turns

42

path,” adds Robichaux. “We are in a good place, and we are building on that to make it better. I see us continuing the philosophy of the past and E.D. White remaining a solid part of this community.”

The anniversary year began recently with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, followed by the dedication of the new Jeanette Labat Science Corridor.

Labat was a science teacher and administrator at E.D. White for 41 years.

There are several events/ activities planned throughout the school year to honor different groups of individuals. Two of the main events are Homecoming on Oct. 28 and the activities associate with it, and the Closing Mass on Saturday, April 1.

Every living principal of E.D. White was in attendance for the 50th anniversary kickoff Mass. Three of the former principals are deceased. Pictured in order of their term are, Brother Paul Montero, S.C., Brother Xavier Werneth, S.C., Brother Ray Hebert, S.C., Brother Ronald Talbot, S.C., Gary Phillips, David Boudreaux, Myra Luft and Michelle Chiasson.

E.D. White Alumnus of the Year District Attorney Camille A. Morvant II will be honored at the Homecoming Mass, Thursday, Oct. 27 and a pep rally will take place that night. There will be a band before Friday’s game with tailgating and activities for the kids. The first graduating class will be honored with a cocktail party and 50 year diplomas will be

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At the Closing Mass in April, there will be old photos and memorabilia on display, guest speakers and food, with time for people to just visit with each other.

Contact Michelle Keife in the E.D. White Advancement Office at mkeife@htdiocese.org for more information about the anniversary activities.

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EVENTS

DIOCESAN

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OCTOBER n Catholic Housing Services through Catholic Charities Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is offering training and counseling for firsttime homebuyers. Classes are designed to help individuals with the knowledge needed to purchase a home. Cost to attend is $20. You must register in advance by calling (985)876-0490. n Annual Respect Life Mass, Sunday, Oct. 2, 11:30 a.m., St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux. n Holy Hour of Adoration for Men, Sunday, Oct. 2, 7-8 p.m., Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, Oct. 4, Ellendale Country Club Restaurant, 3319 Highway 311 in Schriever, 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Speaker, Father Joseph Tregre. n Adult Faith Formation: Christology, Thursdays, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall in Schriever, 6-8:15 p.m. Speaker, Father Glenn LeCompte.

n Discernment of Spirits Ignatian Retreat with Father Mitch Semar, beginning Oct. 7, 6 p.m. until Oct. 8, 6 p.m., at Lumen Christi Retreat Center. Call (985) 447-2013 for more information. n The annual diocesan Red Mass will be celebrated Thursday, Oct. 13, at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux, at 11:30 a.m., by Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. n Diocesan wedding anniversary prayer service and celebration, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2 p.m., St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux, for couples celebrating 25, 40, 50, 60 and beyond years of marriage this year. A reception will follow in the Life Center. n Holy Family celebration, Monday, Oct. 17, 6:30 p.m., at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma, includes praying the rosary, a prayer of consecration to the Holy Family, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Liturgy of the Word and benediction.

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NOVEMBER n C.E.N.T.S. will be offering the Small Business Course beginning in November through Catholic Charities Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. This course is designed to help people who are interested in starting a small business or currently have one. It will be held one evening a week for nine weeks. A different business topic will be discussed each week. There is a $20 fee for the nine week session. Call Brooks Lirette at (985)876-0490 to schedule an orientation appointment. n Adult Faith Formation: Christology, Thursdays, Nov. 3, 10, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall in Schriever, 6-8:15 p.m.

Speaker, Father Glenn LeCompte. n St. Martin de Porres (patron of African-American Catholics)

Mass, Nov. 3, St. Luke the Evangelist Church in Thibodaux, 7 p.m. n Pilgrimage Walk, Saturday, Nov. 5, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma, beginning at 7:30 a.m. with rosary and confession; Mass at 8:30 a.m.; walk begins at 9:15 a.m. n Holy Hour of Adoration for Men, Sunday, Nov. 6, 7-8 p.m., Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. n Native American Mass, Friday, Nov. 18 at 6:30 p.m., St. Charles Borromeo Church in Pointe-aux-Chenes. Reception following at the KC Home. n TEC 77 Retreat, Nov. 18-20 at Lumen Christi’s Souby Building in Schriever.

DECEMBER n Pilgrimage Walk, Saturday, Dec. 3, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma, beginning at 7:30 a.m. with rosary and confession; Mass at 8:30 a.m.; walk begins at 9:15 a.m. n Diocesan Day of Reflection for the National Black Catholic

Congress XII with Bishop Shelton Fabre, Dec. 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the diocesan Pastoral Center in Schriever. Theme is “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me: Act justly, love goodness and walk humbly with your God.”

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Camille A. Morvant II is the 2016 EDW Alumnus of the Year

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The Alumni Association of E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux has announced Camille A. Morvant II (1967) as the recipient of the 2016 Alumnus of the Year Award.

The Alumnus of the Year Award is given to a graduate of Thibodaux College, Mount Carmel Academy, Thibodaux Central Catholic or E.D. White, who exemplifies the charism of the Sisters of Mount Carmel and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in his or her life and who has achieved success in the global community.

Camille “Cam” Morvant was born on April 16, 1949, to Robert and Elaine Toups Morvant. He is the oldest of nine children (all E.D. White graduates). In high school, Morvant was a member of the Cardinal football team and was named to the All-District team as a junior and senior. Morvant was also a three time district champion and state champion discus thrower.

On Oct. 4, 2002, he was elected district attorney for Lafourche Parish and is currently serving his third

term. He has been unopposed in the last two elections.

Morvant is the founder, president and chairman of the board for the non-profit Lorio Foundation. To date, the Lorio Foundation has donated over 20 million dollars to the Thibodaux community.

He is also the founder and president of the Lafourche Parish Camille A. Morvant II Children’s Advocacy Center and is a longstanding member of the Thibodaux Firemen and a past Grand Marshall of the Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair. He has also served on the school boards of St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School and E.D. White.

His is married to Dana Crochet Morvant and has three children, Melissa, Camille and Samantha.

Morvant will be honored at the E.D. White Homecoming Mass on Thursday, Oct. 27, and at an Alumnus of the Year luncheon that will follow at Grady V’s Restaurant in Thibodaux. Please contact Kaye Constant at kconstant@htdiocese.org if you wish to attend the luncheon. Cost is $20 per person.

VÜÉááÜÉtwá cÜxzÇtÇvç exáÉâÜvx VxÇàxÜ invites you to Celebrate LIFE at our

12th Annual

Open House

for prospective students and their parents

Wednesday, October 26, 2016 6:30PM—9:30PM Nicholls State University Ballroom Business/Cocktail Attire

Silent Auction, Music, Drinks, & Hors d’oeuvres For tickets or sponsorship opportunities email Michele@crossroadsprc.org or call 985.446.5004 All proceeds will benefit our non-profit ministry which promotes the sanctity of life by providing caring services to pregnant women in crisis within our community.

Thursday, November 3, 2016 at 6:30 P.M. Where Tradition Embraces the Future 2017-2018 Application Packets will be distributed at Open House Call Alisha Bergeron at 985.446.8486 ext. 116 or email abergeron@htdiocese.org for more information

555 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA 70301 985.446.8486 www.edwhite.org E. D. White Catholic High School is open to all students and does not discriminate on the basis of race or national origin.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Dolores Legendre’s artwork to be featured Oct.1 - Dec.10 “I knew in my heart that art was my calling as a little girl. I would spend hours drawing pictures.”

Paintings, in both oil and watercolor, and pen and ink, seem to flow straight from her fingertips and her heart. Dolores’ husband, Daniel, creates beautiful, handmade cypress frames for most of her original works.

The recipient of numerous awards, Dolores considers herself mostly a self-taught artist who has been developing her technique since 1973. She has been praised for her detailed way of painting and her natural colors. Her works of art can be found in several local businesses and private collections.

Some of her paintings have even found their way across the pond in Europe.

Her renderings of the churches and schools of the Diocese of

By Janet Marcel Southdown Plantation/The Terrebonne Museum will be showcasing the artwork of Lockport native Dolores Legendre beginning Oct. 1 until Dec. 10, with an exhibit entitled “Cajun-Bayou Louisiana.”

“We are honored to exhibit the work of Dolores Legendre for our upcoming quarterly artist’s exhibit,” says Nicole Chiasson, director of Southdown Plantation/ The Terrebonne Museum. “Dolores has chosen to host her fourth exhibit here and we are thrilled to have her back!”

This exhibit is a reflection of Dolores’ lifelong love of Southeast Louisiana and her Cajun heritage.

She cherishes her heritage and it is evident in the scenes reflected in her paintings.

“I never have trouble finding something to paint,” Dolores states.

Houma-Thibodaux have appeared in numerous Bayou Catholic publications.

A reception will be held Sunday, Oct. 9 from 2-4 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Dolores and her husband Daniel have generously agreed to give a free 16.5” x 30” print of her work entitled “The Lord’s Supper,” to everyone that attends the reception or comes by to view the exhibit.

Southdown Plantation is located at 1208 Museum Drive in Houma.

Please call (985)851-0154 for more information or go to www. southdownmuseum.org. Museum hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

(Information for this article was obtained from a Sept. 6 press release from Terrebonne Historical & Cultural Society.)

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46

Annual Tekakwitha Conference

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Twenty-one participants from the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux recently attended the annual Tekakwitha Conference in Burlingame, CA. Pictured are first row, Ian Verdin; second row from left, Joseph and Barbara Naquin, Ivy and Theresa Boudreaux, Katie DeHart, Kandi Dardar; third row from left, Brice Solet, Pierre Solet, Curtis Pierre, Kathy Verdin, Alisa Dardar, Coy Verdin; third row from left, Sister Kateri Mitchell, Mary Solet, Maria Pierre, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, Father Roch Naquin, Peter Verdin, Pam Verdin, Theresa Dardar; seated are Louis Aguirre and Father Henry Sands.

Rev. Eric Leyble

Pastoral appointment announced

The Rev. Eric Leyble, who has been studying Canon Law at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., since July 2014, has been assigned as assistant (adjutant) to the diocesan judicial vicar and assistant director of the Tribunal for a period of three years.

He will remain administrator of St. Genevieve Church parish in Thibodaux. Father Leyble is a native of Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines. He was ordained May 26, 2012.

Divine Mercy Retreat Oct. 7-9

The Metairie Chapter of Magnificat is sponsoring a Divine Mercy Retreat, Oct. 7-9 at the Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary Street in Metairie. Retreat master is Father Simon Peter Engurait, diocesan coordinator of Christian Formation and associate pastor at Christ the Redeemer Church parish in Thibodaux. Please come and rest as Father Simon Peter teaches about Divine Mercy and the Holy Spirit! For more information and registration, please call Jane at (504) 466-2010 or (504) 884-6152.

Diocesan Outreach Line

In response to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is offering an Outreach Line (formerly known as the Child Protection Contact Line). The Outreach Line is an effort to continue the diocesan commitment to support healing for people who have been hurt or sexually abused recently or in the past by clergy, religious or other employees of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Outreach Line operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. A trained mental health professional responds to the line. Individuals are offered additional assistance if requested.

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Outreach Line Telephone number is (985) 873-0026 or (985) 850-3172

Línea de Comunicación Diocesana

Con el fin de cumplir con las Políticas de Protección de Niños y Jóvenes de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Los Estados Unidos, la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux ofrece una Línea de Comunicación (antes Línea de Contacto para la Protección de los Niños). La Línea de Comunicación es parte del esfuerzo diocesano de comprometerse con el mejoramiento de aquéllos que han sido lastimados o abusados sexualmente recientemente o en el pasado por miembros del clero, religiosos u otros empleados de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux.

El horario de la Línea de Comunicación de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux es de 8:30 a.m. a 4:30 p.m., de lunes a viernes. El encargado de esta línea es un profesional capacitado en salud mental. Se ofrece asistencia adicional al ser solicitada.

Línea de Comunicación de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux Número de teléfono (985) 873-0026 o (985) 850-3172

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän Ñeå höôûng öùng Hieán chöông Baûo veä Treû em vaø Giôùi treû töø Hoäi ñoàng Giaùm muïc Hoa kyø, Giaùo phaän Houma-Thibodaux ñang chuaån bò ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp (luùc tröôùc laø ñöôøng daây lieân laïc baûo veä treû em). Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp laø moät söï coá gaéng cuûa giaùo phaän nhaèm cam keát haøn gaén naâng ñôõ nhöõng ai ñaõ bò toån thöông hoaëc bò laïm duïng tính duïc hoaëc gaàn ñaây hoaëc trong quaù khöù bôûi giaùo só, tu só hoaëc caùc coâng nhaân vieân cuûa Giaùo phaän Houma-Thibodaux. Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän hoaït ñoäng töø 8:30 saùng ñeán 4:30 chieàu, thöù hai ñeán thöù saùu. Moät nhaân vieân chuyeân nghieäp veà söùc khoûe taâm thaàn traû lôøi treân ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi. Nhöõng caù nhaân seõ ñöôïc trôï giuùp naâng ñôõ theâm neáu caàn.

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän Soá ñieän thoaïi: (985) 873-0026; (985) 850-3172

www.bayoucatholic.com

47

Special

Blue Mass

48

The annual Blue Mass, honoring community protectors, firefighters, law enforcement, military personnel and first responders was celebrated recently at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre was the main celebrant of the Mass. Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, the Louisiana State Police Troop C chaplain, was the homilist.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Rachel’s Vineyard ministry retreat Oct. 14-16

Samart annual blessing ceremony Nov. 1 Samart Funeral Home of Houma & Crematorium, Inc. is holding its seventh annual blessing ceremony for the loved ones interred in Rogers & Matherne Cemetery located on Highway 316 in Bayou Blue on Tuesday, Nov. 1 at 12 p.m. Service will be conducted by Father Robert Rogers, pastor of St. Louis Church parish in Bayou Blue.

The Rachel’s Vineyard ministry for healing after abortion is having a retreat the weekend of Oct. 14–16 at the Archdiocese of New Orleans Retreat Center, 5500 St. Mary Street in Metairie. Cost is $170; financial assistance is available, if necessary. This Catholic healing retreat is open to everyone whose life has been touched by abortion.

All faiths are welcome. For more information or to register, contact Pam Richard at (504)4609360 or (985)809-0773, by email at richj504@bellsouth.net; or Melanie Baglow at (504)710-6458, by email at mkbaglow@cox.net. This retreat is strictly confidential.

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Church Life

Installation of readers The Diocese of HoumaThibodaux’s candidates for diaconate formation with the Archdiocese of New Orleans were recently installed as readers at Maria Immacolata Church in Houma. This installation is one of the steps toward ordination as a permanent deacon. Pictured with Bishop Shelton J. Fabre from left, are Timothy White, Timothy Vedros, Larry Callais and James LeFevre.

Deacon James Brunet/Bayou Catholic

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LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER PHOTOS/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Thrift Store grand re-opening The St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store in Houma recently celebrated its grand re-opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre spoke to those present about the importance of the thrift store and its value for the needy of the community.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Sports

Overtime

I

Ed Daniels

I guess they mean well.

They, are the callers who dial our Three Tailgaters radio show Saturday mornings on WGSO to talk about why it is time the Saints move on without Drew Brees.

All I can do is chuckle.

The callers say that Brees is on the decline. And, that the Saints would be better moving on without him.

I actually wonder if they are watching the games.

Like, against the Raiders, when Brees threw for 423 yards and four touchdowns.

It was the 80th time in his career that he achieved a passer rating of 100 or more.

New England’s Tom Brady has done it 73 times.

It was the 50th time that Brees has thrown for 350 yards or more.

Tom Brady has done it 37 times.

Peyton Manning hit the 350 mark, 35 times.

It was the 14th time that Drew Brees threw for 400 yards or more, tying Peyton Manning for most all time.

What happened in the opener was a familiar script.

Brees does all he can.

The Saints defense can’t get stops.

You know how it ends.

Even if the Saints were to start over at the quarterback position, there are no guarantees they would get the right guy.

It may take years ... and years …

Ask the Browns, who have now turned to Robert Griffin III. The Jets were desperate to have Ryan Fitzpatrick return as their quarterback.

They signed Fitzpatrick to a one year, $12 million deal.

Coming into the season,

Brees “Call us First” does all he can Fitzpatrick had thrown 154 touchdown passes, 116 interceptions.

If you are a pitcher, that is not a good balls and strikes ratio.

Houston signed some unproven quarterback named Osweiler for $72 million.

In their opening Sunday losses, the Bills scored seven points, the Dolphins scored 10.

Miami’s Dan Marino retired after the 1999 season. They still haven’t replaced him.

Jim Kelly’s last season in Buffalo was 1996. They are hoping Tyrod Taylor is the answer.

Saints fans can hope for a lot of things. That one day their team again plays defense.

That one day, their management doesn’t throw wads of cash at free agents who don’t return nearly the same value.

But, as Brandin Cooks streaked down the west sideline with a Brees pass to complete a 98 yard touchdown, I thought, this is pretty good stuff.

I doubt seriously in my lifetime I will see another Hall of Fame quarterback in black and gold.

For the Saints, Drew Brees is return on investment that Warren Buffet would covet.

There’s a reason Sean Payton earns a reported $9 million a season. And, it isn’t because of his drafts.

It is because a decade ago, he took the chance that Miami wouldn’t.

That Drew Brees’ surgically repaired shoulder would be 100 percent.

It was the single smartest thing the Saints head coach has ever done.

If the Saints don’t have a winning record again this season, there will be a lot of reasons why.

The quarterback won’t be one of them.

Mimi Wilson, OT, PA-C Jimmy N. Ponder, Jr., MD Adolfo Cuadra, MD

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FALL 2016 COMMISSIONS SUNDAY COMMISSION (PREACHING) How do we improve preaching?

10/20, 11/3, 12/6 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) DEACON COMMISSION How do we strengthen our deacons, their formation, and their role in the parish?

10/17, 11/8, 12/1 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) 52

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS COMMISSION How do we offer great Catholic education?

10/11, 11/15, 12/15 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) STEWARDSHIP COMMISSION How do we further create a culture of stewardship?

10/18, 11/16, 12/13 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) OUTREACH COMMISSION (PARISH SOCIAL MINISTRY) How do we create a culture integrating the principles of Catholic social teaching into parish life?

10/12, 11/21, 12/5 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) MULTICULTURAL COMMISSION How do we retain an authentically Catholic identity within cultures: African American, Native American, Hispanic.

(Visit Website for Updated Meeting Dates) VOCATIONS COMMISSION How do we sustain the number of needed seminarians for our diocese and from our diocese?

10/24, 11/29, 12/7 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) DIOCESAN GOVERNANCE COMMISSION What’s needed from the Pastoral Center in order for our parishes to thrive?

10/19, 11/10, 12/14 (6:30 – 8:30 PM) Commission dates may have changed since this publication.

For the most updated information, visit our webpage: www.htdiocese.org/sp or call Trudy: (985) 850-3173 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Bayou Bayou Outdoor Guide Fall 2016

Catholic

Contents

On Our Cover Bayou Outdoor Guide Fall 2016

Fishing fall’s redfish run

56

Waterfowl hunters should once again see good numbers of ducks and geese in the southwest and northeast agricultural areas this season as in years past.

With dryer conditions on the prairie and lower duck production this past summer, a high number of adult birds will be swinging from the game strap.

Cover Photo by John Flores

2016-2017 Small game forecast

2016-2017 Deer hunting preview

54

60 58

2016-2017 Waterfowl hunting preview

Louisiana coastal specks on the loose

“Jack”

66 Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

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Outdoor Guide

56

By Chris Berzas Gulls were flying above waters just to the south of where angler Craig Vidrine and I entered the lake from a marsh cut.

Three of the five birds had settled down on the surface, whereas the other two remained flying above the area.

Just as we exited the cut, a flock of pelicans suddenly plopped on the waters near the shoreline.

For certain, these huge birds were feeding as their heads would disappear under the water and then reappear with engorged bills filled with baitfish.

“They’re right here,” Vidrine said as he positioned his boat to allow both of us to begin casting.

Once our plastic baits hit the water, we both made hooksets on strong fish as they thrust toward the deep pulling drag as our reels screamed.

There was no sweeping these fish onto the deck with our rods. They were huge and we both had nets nearby ready to scoop these fish aboard.

A couple of hours later we had culled down to a few slot reds.

These were taken by casting and retrieving swimming Egret Wedgetail Mullets, 3.5-inch plastic fish imitators with a vibrating tail.

We would run these lures along the shorelines in the same direction the schools of baitfish were moving and the reds just clobbered them Later on we made our way to the jetties and much deeper water in the ship channel.

“It would be nice just to hook up to a couple of bulls,” Vidrine said.

We found our traditional hot spot, a cleft in the rock structure allowing the incoming tide to move in.

We settled there and just dropped our lures vertically a little distance away from the boulders.

After a few minutes, Vidrine had one hooked and this fish made a deep vertical run to the depths.

In response, the angler made a series of reel cranks followed by upward thrusts of his rod until the 30-inch redfish appeared.

After a series of photos, the fish was released back into the ship channel. We then continued our hopes for a couple of more hooksets later in the day.

It was early November and a cool Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

CHRIS BERZAS PHOTO

Smaller slot redfish are the targets of most redfish anglers as these provide the best cuisine, especially when grilled.

Fishing fall’s REDFISH run front had ushered in the first bluebird skies of the fall.

Redfish were moving, and there was a lack of fishing pressure due to the onset of the hunting seasons.

Fall is the absolute best time

Nature’s call to spawn.

It’s at the upper slot lengths of about 26 inches when redfish are ready to spawn, and battles with the larger specimens are about certain as they head through jetties

Fall and early winter offers the best of times for anglers to chase schools of redfish all along the Louisiana coastline. Read on for tips and tactics toward catching these bronzed beauties.

to chase redfish all along the Louisiana coastline. It’s during mid-August and through October when the larger of these bronze beauties school up and head offshore due chiefly to Mother

and passes to Gulf waters.

Also, baitfish, crabs and shrimp will be their prime feeding targets as they too begin ushering out of the marsh and into the edges and central portions of the lakes,

a

bays and ship channels in good numbers.

In the Bayou Catholic readership area, redfish are plentiful due to the vast inland marshes located in Terrebonne Parish.

Capt. Bill Lake of Houma with Bayou Guide Service will be finding them in many marsh areas and interior lakes where he and his guides target slot reds (16 to 26 inches in length).

He and his clients will look for schools of reds ranging from six to 20 fish along shorelines in Lost Lake and Lake Mechant.

“Fishing for redfish on the northern banks here is very good in the fall,” Lake said. “They’ll be foraging on small pogies and shad.”

Lake’s lures of choice for slot reds include Wedgetail Mullets, Bayou Chubs and gold spoons.

Anglers are advised to inspect the shorelines closely as these reds will often be shallow in just a foot of water. Look for wakes moving along the shorelines, sometimes with a few gulls hovering over the school as these fish will force up small baitfish and shrimp to the surface.

CHRIS BERZAS PHOTO

In the fall, redfish in the upper slot range of 26 inches or more can be found as they pass near rock jetties, passes, reefs and barrier islands heading offshore for the fall spawning period.

The larger redfish migrating offshore for the spawn appear near barrier islands, passes and beaches in the Gulf.

Cracked crabs are the baits of choice for these bulls and anglers will scour for these by drifting or trolling between reefs and near passes.

All redfish taken by saltwater anglers in Louisiana must be at least

16 inches minimum total length.

There is a five-fish-per-person daily bag limit with not more than one exceeding 27 inches in length.

For more fishing information, you can reach Capt. Bill’s Bayou Guide Service at (985)851-6015 (home) and (985)637-3712 (cell). He can be messaged by email at b.lakejr@ comcast.net.

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57

Outdoor Guide

2016-2017

Small game forecast

58

By John Flores Some 30 years ago a United States Coast Guard seaman apprentice named Guy Morrow got stationed in Morgan City and was someone who never hunted before.

He didn’t grow up around it, so like any good Louisianan I invited him.

You know how this works. Guy and his wife Sandra came to church one Sunday, where she took to and befriended my wife and the guys subsequently shook hands.

Guy was all right. He was affable, a quick study, not braggadocios, and truly grateful for me taking him hunting.

I decided that with no experience, deer hunting was out of the question. And duck season wasn’t open at the time. So, small game hunting it was. In this case, squirrel.

Looking back, as long as I’ve lived in the state of Louisiana the small game season start date, ending date, and bag limits have never changed where squirrel and rabbit hunting are concerned.

Traditionally opening day of squirrel season is always the first Saturday in October and runs through the last day in February – same with rabbit.

I’m sure Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries biologists have a reason for it. Most likely it has something to do with breeding periods and the fact that feed is in less supply during late fall and winter months. Nonetheless, you’d think there would be some anomaly or issue where small game is concerned.

I can remember the impacts of hurricanes Juan, Andrew, Lili, Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

Young hunter Gabriel Flores, with a swamp rabbit

Katrina, Ike, Rita and Gustav over the years, not to mention a couple of tropical storms, and how the marsh and bottomland hardwoods were impacted. Trees squirrels feed and nest in were toppled over. Lost were hackberry trees full of seeds.

One hundred year old water and live oaks full of acorns destroyed.

And wild bitter pecan trees were uprooted.

Regardless of the destruction, the October season as sure as Old Man Time passes, opened each and every year like he had the alarm set for it. What’s more, you could go out and kill your eight squirrels if you could get through the down falls and tangled mess the woods were left in, in the aftermath of each storm.

JOHN FLORES PHOTO

There really isn’t any prognostication when it comes to previewing the upcoming small game season. Just like in years past, the season will open the first Saturday in October.

In short, squirrel populations have never been more stable.

Rabbits too, for that matter.

Flourishing is probably an even better word to describe small game populations in some regions of the state.

Annually, Terry Jones, a retired University of Louisiana–Monroe history professor, traditionally hunts opening weekend with his brothers and nephews on family property in Winnfield. And each year, several limits of squirrels will be cleaned, prepared and

a

tossed in a black iron kettle.

Jones says his family does this every year without fail. What’s more, the squirrel numbers are always there.

Several years ago, I did a canoe trip with Jones down the Dugdemona River hunting squirrels with him from the waterside. Around each bend we would catch squirrels feeding on the ground beneath the trees. Several times three and four squirrels would scoot up the tree once they knew they’d been had.

Patterson resident Corey Toups, hunts rabbits on the Atchafalaya Delta Wildlife Management Area after the waterfowl season each year in January and February.

Toups and his party of hunters have harvested eye-popping numbers of swamp rabbits on the WMA. Numbers like 60 to 70 per hunt are common. The succulent marsh grasses on an ever-expanding delta have created a haven for rabbits.

As long as Louisiana’s hunters continue to focus their attention on the pursuit of mainly deer and ducks, small game as a renewable resource will be under harvested.

JOHN FLORES PHOTO

Morrow and I hunted squirrels on that October Saturday for only a few hours. It was so warm, squirrel activity slowed down by 9:30 a.m.

I just knew I was going to have a bad case of chiggers from it being dry, too.

There’s nothing worse than hot fall days, dry conditions, and waist high grass not dead from frost yet.

We didn’t kill our limits, but had enough squirrels cut up and

smothered down in a black iron pot to feed the USCG attachment stationed in Morgan City at the time. What shocked my wife and I was how much Coastguard fellows eat. I swear Morrow licked the pot clean.

In forecasting the upcoming small game season, all I have to say is “go.” There will be plenty of game when you get in the woods with your shotguns.

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59

Outdoor Guide

60

By John Flores When Louisiana’s waterfowl hunters step into their blinds this fall, it will be 21 consecutive years they will have been able to enjoy a 60 day, six duck limit. Imagine that for a minute. A 21 year old waterfowl hunter who is finally old enough to buy his or her first beer, has never known anything else.

By contrast, I can remember the days when Louisiana’s duck season ran 30 days and had a three duck limit back in the 80s, due to excessive drought on the duck breeding grounds. What remains interesting to me, back then you’d have thought every duck in the flyway was down here along the coast. The birds in my bag always included mallards and a couple of times during the season we had ice on the ponds we hunted.

The 2016-2017 Louisiana waterfowl season is the first season under the new United States Fish and Wildlife Service flyway rules where season dates were set and approved during the spring.

Moreover, set so early they are without the benefit or consideration of pond counts and the breeding numbers surveyed this year.

So, what does that mean? It simply means enjoy it while you got it. Essentially, though duck breeding numbers were only down two percent from 2015’s survey and the overall breeding duck population still remains 38 percent above the long-term average in 2016; prairie conditions in terms of moisture declined.

According to press information, released in mid-August by Delta Waterfowl, May pond totals were down 21 percent from the previous year and are four percent below the long-term average.

This is important information, because of what’s happening on the prairie today, where farmers are tiling fields to help them drain faster. In other words, tiling lowers the subsurface water table quicker, thus drying out agricultural fields faster, and thereby allowing farmers to maximize grain harvest profits. No one can fault a farmer for doing what he feels he has to do for his family.

However, for the past several years each spring and summer, Mother Nature has stepped in Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

2016-2017

Waterfowl hunting preview JOHN FLORES PHOTO

The Atchafalaya Delta Wildlife Management Area had modest success for a public area last year.

and supplied enough rain to compensate for a reduction of pot holes in agricultural areas in North and South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota. Moreover, conservation groups like Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl and The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation continue to work with state and federal agencies to develop policy and increase lands where ducks can nest. But, is it enough? Time will tell as the Dakotas and Prairie Canada did experience once again, some late spring rains.

Delta Waterfowl President, Dr. Frank Rohwer, said, “Wetland conditions are not very good compared to recent years. We have high numbers of ducks sharing fewer ponds. Ducks just don’t do as well when they’re crowded.”

“Gadwalls will likely take advantage of the improved water conditions we had in June and

mallard production should be helped by it too. Mallards are strong re-nesters. We’ll be hunting flocks with more adult ducks in them this season, but the flights should be strong,” Rohwer said.

More locally, many hunters considered the 2015-2016 duck season pretty much a bust. One of those hunters was Bill Lake, owner/operator of Bayou Guide Service south of Houma.

In a conversation I had with Lake just after the duck season ended last season, Lake said, “On my personal lease we didn’t do anything on it. My lease is located near the 70 mile – Bayou Copasaw area. Everyone along the Intracoastal located within miles of it, with the high water had no feed this year. Even before the duck season the water was high.

Because of the water being high all summer leading right into duck

a

season, none of the ponds and none of the leases all up and down the Intracoastal from Bay Wallace to the Orange Grove, had any feed. There was nothing to attract ducks. The ducks we did see were diving ducks like canvasbacks and ringnecks. I didn’t shoot a duck on my lease.”

Lake said he salvaged his duck season making hunts with a few friends on the Atchafalaya Delta Wildlife Management Area, the Blue Bird Canal area south of Bayou Black Marina and a special treat from a friend who happened to be a member of the Lacassane Club in southwest Louisiana. But, overall, Lake gave the Bayou Black area below Gibson about a three out of 10 rating last year.

Patterson resident and diehard duck hunter, Corey Toups, made the most of his duck hunts on the Atchafalaya Delta WMA’s Wax Delta last year. Toups indicated duck hunting was slightly below par compared to previous seasons.

Toups said, “The big duck season last year was quite a struggle. Even though we managed

a

JOHN FLORES PHOTO

Jack Cousin is a world champion duck and goose caller and guides during his spare time when out of college between semesters.

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61

Outdoor Guide

Waterfowl preview

62

to have one of my best hunts to date ever, the season on a whole was a slight decline from the previous year. There were a decent number of birds, but the majority were divers. And there’s a lot of hunting pressure out there now, what with the mud motors guys are hunting out of.”

Essentially, in spite of duck numbers last season being 40 percent above the long-term average last year, Louisiana’s duck hunters struggled. With the number of birds just slightly lower this year, time will tell how many make it down to Louisiana come fall.

The main thing is duck hunters get 60 days and six bird limits again this year. With dryer conditions on the prairie and lower duck production this past summer, a high number of adult birds will be swinging from the game strap. So, enjoy it while you got it.

JOHN FLORES PHOTO

Nothing like starting the morning right with a pair of speckled belly geese

N E P O NOW

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2016-2017 Season Dates Small Game Season

Species

Season Dates

Daily Bag Limit

Possession Limit

Rabbit Squirrel

Oct. 1 - Feb. 28 Oct. 3 - Feb. 28

8 8

24 24

Deer Season

Area Archery Season Primitive Weapon

7 Oct. 1 - Jan. 31, 2017 Either Sex:

Oct. 8-14

Bucks Only:

Nov. 5-11

Still Hunting Only No Dogs Allowed

With or Without Dogs

Bucks Only: Oct. 19 - Nov. 6 Nov. 12-18 Nov. 21-24 Either Sex: Oct. 15-16 Nov. 19-20 Nov. 25-27

Bucks Only Nov. 28-Dec. 30 Dec. 28-Jan. 3, 2017

9 Bucks Only: Bucks Only: Bucks Only:

Oct. 1 - 15 Nov. 12-18 Nov. 19-24

Jan. 30-31, 2017 Nov. 28 - Dec. 9

Either Sex: Either Sex: Either Sex:

Oct. 16-Feb. 15, 2017 Jan. 23-29,2017 Nov. 25-27

Either Sex: Dec. 31-Jan. 1, 2017

Bucks Only: Dec. 12-30 Jan. 2-13, 2017 Jan. 16-22, 2017 Either Sex: Dec. 10-11 Dec. 31-Jan. 1, 2017 Jan. 14-15, 2017

Waterfowl Coastal Zone Season

Season

Coastal Zone

Ducks, Coots, and Nov. 12 - Dec. 4

Mergansers Dec. 17 - Jan. 22, 2017

Youth Waterfowl

Daily Bag Limit

Possession Limit

Ducks 6 Coots 15 Mergansers 5

Three Times The Daily Bag Limit

Nov. 5-6

Same as Regular Season

Light Geese (Snow,

Blue, Ross)

Nov. 5 - Dec. 4 Dec. 17 - Feb. 12, 2017

20

No Possession Limit

White-Fronted

Geese (Specklebelly)

Nov. 5 - Dec. 4 Dec. 17 - Feb. 12, 2017

2

6 Possession Limit

Canada Goose

Nov. 5 - Dec. 4 Dec. 17 - Jan. 31, 2017

1 Per Day

3 Possession Limit

The daily bag limit on ducks is 6 and may include mo more than 4 mallards (no more than two of which may be female), 2 pintails, 2 canvasback, 1 mottled duck, 1 black duck, 3 wood ducks, 3 scaup, and 2 red heads. www.bayoucatholic.com

63

Outdoor Guide

64

By John Flores You know it’s just about time to hunt deer each year when those sale flyers hit your mail box, fall out of your newspaper and pop up on your social media pages offering “blow out” prices. Capitalism is alive and well in the business of deer hunting and truly we live in a golden era, where whitetails are concerned.

After a decade of declining deer harvest numbers, where the 2014-2015 estimated harvest was 139,900, last year’s harvest was up 12 percent to 156,100. The estimate is still well under the 200,000 plus annual deer harvest estimates the state has seen in years past. And though the deer harvest estimate is positive news for hunters, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries have concerns going forward.

LDWF Deer Program Manager Johnathan Bordelon predicts the upcoming season will be a tough one for some hunters based on low lactation rates across parts of Louisiana last season. According to Bordelon, the average lactation rate for bottomland hardwood habitats was below 50 percent for the first time.

Essentially, lactation rate can be defined as a percentage of does, 2-1/2 years and older, harvested during a given season that was producing milk. In short, lactation indicated she was raising at least one fawn just prior to the season.

Bordelon says the average does not represent all properties and wildlife management areas (WMAs), as some regions experienced above average lactation rates. But, in certain areas where the rate has

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Lori Matherne, PT

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

JOHN FLORES PHOTO

The 2016-2017 Deer Season has weather related questions this year, but should be another good season with harvest reaching somewhere around 140,000 to 150,000 deer.

2016-2017

Deer hunting preview fallen below the 50 mark hunters are likely to see a reduced number of 1-1/2 year old deer.

Biologists currently can’t point to a root cause for the lower lactation rates in parts of Louisiana.

However, hunters and land managers are encouraged to keep good harvest records that include tracking lactating does.

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Weather has also impacted deer both positively and negatively this year.

Bordelon said, “There certainly could be localized impacts to fawns in recently flooded areas due to the timing of the event and fawn drop.

But, flooding has been the big story this year, regardless of whether you are talking about river

a

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flooding or widespread flooding across west Louisiana, northeast Louisiana, and most recently southeastern Louisiana. Deer otherwise appeared to be in good shape before the last event. Rainfall throughout the growing season led to favorable conditions. However, the catastrophic rain events earlier this year and again in August did negate those benefits in parts of the state.”

Perhaps of most concern is Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), where the LDWF is taking measures through the regulatory process to prohibit the introduction of the disease into the state. Currently, 23 states and two Canadian provinces have known documented cases of CWD. Two of those states are Arkansas and Texas.

Chronic wasting disease is a neurodegenerative disease found in deer species of animals known as cervids. It is infectious and always fatal.

In a LDWF press release issued in late July, CWD is defined as part of a group of diseases know as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) and is similar to bovine spongiform encephalopathy known as mad cow disease. Both of these diseases cause irreversible damage to brain tissue, which leads to salivation, neurological symptoms, thinness due to malnutrition, and death of the animal.

Mutated proteins normally found in the body known as prions cause the disease. The prions kill nerve cells and cause holes to develop in the brain tissue.

Moreover, CWD is spread through deer-to-deer contact or through contact with urine, feces, saliva and body parts of infected deer or infectious materials in the soil.

The LDWF’s current strategy is to stop the spread of CWD through prevention methods.

“Unfortunately, prevention does come at the cost of inconvenience to hunters and negative impacts to the taxidermy and meat processing industry. This issue will receive debate. But, we are not the first state to consider a cervid carcass importation ban. Currently there is a ban in 37 states with Mississippi being the latest state to join the list,” says Bordelon.

Currently, there are no known cases of CWD reported or found in the state of Louisiana says LDWF deer management assistance program coordinator, Jimmy Ernst. “We’ve been monitoring for more than 10 years and have checked 7,000 plus deer and not discovered it.

We are being proactive because it’s in our neighboring states and it is close enough that we need to be on guard,” Ernst said.

In ending on a positive, Louisiana deer hunters continue to harvest big deer annually and age is a prerequisite for antler development. Bordelon says the river parishes can be expected to once again produce their fair share of large bucks. However, it takes proper habitat management and older age management on the part of hunters.

Last year the northwest Louisiana parishes produced the highest harvest totals, with Union Parish in north central Louisiana having the highest.

In 2016-2017, Louisiana’s deer hunters may not exceed last year’s 156,100 harvest estimates. But, no doubt they will push into what appears the new norm for the state, harvesting somewhere between 140,000 to 150,000 deer this year.

JOHN FLORES PHOTO

Hanna Oldfather of Patterson harvested her first deer during the 2015-2016 Area 7 Deer Season.

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65

Outdoor Guide

By Chris Berzas During the fall and winter months, many Louisiana coastal anglers miss out on some very special opportunities for catching numerous speckled trout.

Of course, some anglers are participating in the hunting seasons, whereas others complain speckled trout are just not as active as during the spring and summer months.

This alleged inactivity just isn’t true – especially in the early fall.

Take the following story about a wonderful fall trip as an example.

Looking at the timing of tidal movement, my cousin Ronald Lavergne and I decided to head out after lunch to a mid-lake area.

Upon our arrival, we witnessed rafts of mullets appearing just about everywhere. This is not an uncommon occurrence – and anglers can be easily fooled into thinking trout are feasting on the mullet schools.

We immediately began casting Bayou Chubs and Wedgetail Mullets into a few of the schools.

After casting for 30 minutes or 66 so, we had no takers.

“Nada,” I said.

“You would think we would see some topwater explosions on these schools,” Lavergne said. “But just look how slow-moving and calm all these mullets are.”

We both switched up to topwaters, namely Heddon Spook Juniors, and started dogwalking these lures in hopes some trout would notice.

Another 30 minutes passed - and still nothing at all.

Looking south, I start seeing movement on the water’s surface.

Lavergne responded by immediately putting the trolling motor on high so we could get within casting range of the activity.

As we neared the area, I observed shrimp vaulting out the water.

Picking up a spinning rod with a VuDu Shrimp under a cork, I cast in the vicinity.

The cork immediately disappeared and the reward was an 18-inch trout.

“Now we’re on them,” Lavergne said.

Sure enough, the catching continued, and the gulls also arrived hovering over the schools of trout and the jumping shrimp.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

CHRIS BERZAS PHOTO

In the early fall and lasting until mid-November, speckled trout will school up in Lake Mechant, Sister Lake and Lost Lake to feast on the white shrimp migrating out of the marshes. Plastic shrimp is a popular bait to cast to score on numbers of these schoolers.

Louisiana coastal specks on the loose

Other boats started moving in as they almost always do when birds are sighted.

Fortunately, there were fewer boats than normal due to the lack of anglers on the lake.

We ended up with 24 speckled trout, keepers up to 18 inches, and a couple of redfish as lagniappe.

marshes and into lakes and bays.

From September to midNovember, trout will follow white shrimp – so look for birds and surface activity.

Capt. Bill Lake with Bayou Guide Service of Houma knows well where the white shrimp migration and trout activity will occur in the

After a long spawning season, speckled trout spread out to feed throughout Louisiana’s estuaries. Read about some strategies in finding them during the fall and winter.

In my mind, the trout were focused on targeting one scrumptious item on the coastal buffet – white shrimp. They simply didn’t want anything to do with the schools of mullet.

White shrimp are greatly available in the fall as it is the time for their migration out of the

Bayou Catholic readership area.

His traditional fall hotspots include Lake Mechant, Sister Lake and Lost Lake.

Lake said that roughly 80 percent of the trout will be taken under birds especially where anglers can find submerged shell reefs.

Regarding lures for these

a

specks, Lake made specific recommendations.

“The best baits anglers can throw at trout schooling on white shrimp include VuDu shrimp under a cork,” Lake said. “We also throw Wedgetail Mullets and Bayou Chubs, and the colors that work are LSU, Cajun Pepper and Chicken-on-a-chain.”

“As we head into the colder fishing days between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I’ll be then focusing on deeper waters in the dead end canals in the area,” he said.

At that time of the year, Lake throws the aforementioned Bayou Chubs on a 1/4-ounce jighead without a cork.

For more fishing information and guide service, Capt. Bill Lake’s Bayou Guide Service can be reached at (985) 851-6015 (home) and (985) 637-3712 (cell). He can be messaged by email at b.lakejr@comcast.net.

As for Louisiana regulations, anglers are reminded that they may take and keep 25 fish per person at 12 inches minimum total length – EXCEPT the 15 fish daily take and possession limit, with no more than two spotted seatrout exceeding 25 inches total length, regardless of where taken in a defined area of Cameron and Calcasieu Parishes in southwestern Louisiana.

It is always advised to consult the 2016 Louisiana Fishing Regulations pamphlet before heading out to the waters you fish.

CHRIS BERZAS PHOTO

In the winter when water surface temperatures reach 60 degrees, speckled trout and baitfish will seek the deeper waters of dead-end canals and salt bayous. Plastics imitating baitfish are usually successful in delivering speckled trout to the cooler.

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67

Outdoor Guide

“Jack ” 68

By John Flores It is funny how a child’s mind differs from an adult’s mind. A child’s mind is so much more accepting of people for who they are. They don’t know the meaning of the word judgmental, nor the implications for passing judgments.

They are all the more accepting, when someone fills the emptiness of needed attention.

Jack came into my life during the summer of 1968, at just the right time. I was at that impressionable age where boyhood greeted puberty.

This is the place where “boy” still fits the mold and the reference of “young man” is just starting, but not as yet dubbed.

Jack’s affable demeanor seemed to fit his age. His gangly physique passing only inches from under the headers of most doors, never seemed awkward. He only wished to be called Jack – shaking my hand, as my mother announced he would be living with us.

No one had ever shaken my hand before in terms of a greeting - one Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • October 2016

man to another. I immediately noticed the handshake was firm in grip, yet gentle in meaning. I pondered the yellow stains of his fingers as his hand left mine.

For endless hours, often well past midnight, I sat on the floor at the foot of the blue rocking chair listening to Jack’s stories from yester-year. He connected me with history, as he expounded with the rejuvenated energy of someone who had discovered a prize pupil.

I found meaning in the Gettysburg Address when I recited it verbatim in front of him.

One evening, as I came in from play, I noticed next to Jack’s rocking chair a long gun stuffed into a padded sleeve. Out of respect, I never touched the firearm. Inside, I could hardly contain the questions that it created.

When Jack came home, I was immediately at the foot of the blue rocker. As I had become accustomed to, I watched him slide the brown paper sack underneath the chair as he settled in to the comfort of the

chair’s cushions.

As if he could read my mind, his long arm reached down and picked up the gun. I watched, mesmerized, as he in hypnotic motion, pulled the gun slowly from the comforts of its sleeve.

The deep shine of the gun’s rich walnut stock was the first thing revealed. The blue luster of its action tapering down to the barrel took on the depths of the ocean.

With seemingly effortless motion, his hands unbolted the action for inspection. The crisp, mechanical sound of precision brought a wink and a smile from him.

Jack laid the gun across his lap and once more, as I saw him do many times, he reached for the sack beneath the chair. Tipping it to his lips, he sipped its contents and proceeded to tell me a story.

I strolled with Jack, through the fingers and valleys of outcropped knolls on the eastern slope of a mountain somewhere in the state of Washington. Slung over his shoulder was the rifle he

a

had removed from the sleeve.

The tracks we followed were those of a black bear – dangerous game. Suddenly, the noise of a bear moaning in pain could be heard over the mountain breeze that passed through the leaves of the quaking aspens.

As Jack approached the bear, he immediately noticed it had a blue nose. And as he raised his rifle, he also noticed the bear was very young and favored its right front paw. For some reason the bear didn’t attack, but raised the injured foot. Stuck deep in the bear’s paw was a thorn.

Jack lowered his rifle and cautiously approached the small bruin. The bear sensed Jack’s compassion and lifted the paw for help. As the bear ambled away, the striking blue nose could be seen as the bear seemingly turned to say thanks.

Jack continued throughout the evening with a variety of stories.

Yet, I wanted to know what happened to the blue nosed bear.

Jack expounded on how he had seen him again many years later

while hunting. The bear was much older, but one could still see the blue nose around a gray muzzle.

They would pass one another with a mystical admiration.

My mother would eventually marry Jack’s son Mike, but not before she lost custody of my two younger brothers and me. I would never see Jack again.

It wasn’t until I was older and less impressionable that I realized the blue nosed bear was just a story he made up. But, like the young bear that was hurting, I felt Jack’s compassion. He helped save me from the pain I had inside and some how I helped him with his.

In my reflections while traversing lonely places in the Rocky Mountains and high plain deserts hunting mule deer and antelope with a bolt-action rifle slung over my shoulder, Jack has been with me.

Now standing in the doorway of my senior years, I have come to realize how I was shaped by those hunting stories from Jack. I remain intoxicated by them …

69

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Outdoor Guide

Walk your dog If you own hunting dogs, early fall should be the “shape-up” season for both you and the pooch. It is unrealistic to expect you or your hard-working canine athlete to leap into hunting season in top form and deliver peak performance after loafing through the “dog days” all summer long. Run a bit of the weight off both of you. Refresh obedience training and handling commands. Because it is still pretty warm in the early fall, schedule these exercise periods early in the morning to avoid overheating either one of you. Because you’ll be taking your dog to new places and possibly hunting with other dogs after opening day, you need to take Fido to the vet for a health check and refresh necessary vaccinations before hunting season. Low-fat diets help pare away ounces during the training.

However, later in the season, when the real work and sometimes real cold begins, consider a higher protein diet for hardworking hunting dogs.

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