Bayou Catholic Magazine Lent 2024

LENT 2024 | VOL. 45 NO. 3 In Memory of Most Reverend Mario E. Dorsonville

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CONTENTS: LENT 2024 VOLUME 45 NO. 3

DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATOR

Very Reverend Simon Peter Engurait DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Maegan Martin

4

IN LOVING MEMORY OF BISHOP DORSONVILLE

6

A FINAL RELECTION FROM MOST REVEREND MARIO E. DORSONVILLE

10 REMEMBERING BISHOP DORSONVILLE A message from Fr. Simon Peter A reflection from Fr. Patrick

WRITER AND CONTENT DEVELOPER

Annie Breerwood DESIGNERS

Connor Mabile Alaina Maiorana BUSINESS MANAGER

Bill Barbera

ACCOUNTING SPECIALIST

Rebecca Thibodeaux CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Father Patrick Riviere Kayla LeBlanc Justin Corte Father Phillip Kuruvilla Adam Fuselier Jen Ely Father Brett Lapeyrouse Michelle Leblanc PHOTOGRAPHER

Maegan Martin

PRAYER 12 HEART OF THE CHURCH Homily at the Installation of Bishop Dorsonville

communications@htdiocese.org VISIT US ONLINE

bayoucatholic.org

50 GOD IN THE SHAKING Trusting God amidst great loss 52 SUFFERING WITH A PURPOSE A Spiritual perspective on life’s challenges 54 THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SACRED TRIDUUM Entering into the Liturgy 57 Q+A Describe your best Lent

CULTURE

22 PRACTICAL PRAYER The Way of the Cross

60 POETRY The Dream of the Rood

26 BIBLE STUDY The Journey to the Cross

62 LOCAL ART Natalie Haydel Barker

32 SAINT STORIES St. Josephine Bakhita

64 OUR HISTORY Italians and St. Joseph’s Altars

34 PRAYER AND SCRIPTURE CALENDARS

FAITH FORMATION 38 LIVING LITURGICALLY Kayla LeBlanc 42 EVERYDAY HOLINESS Fr. Phillip Kuruvilla

EMAIL US:

FEATURES: LENT

46 GROWING IN VIRTUE The Virtue of Temperance

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

BISHOP DORSONVILLE 4 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

OBITUARY PUBLISHED ON JANUARY 24, 2024 On Friday, January 19, 2024, Mario Eduardo Dorsonville, beloved shepherd and priest, passed away at age sixty-three. Bishop Dorsonville was born on October 31, 1960, in Bogotá, Colombia, the only child of Leonor M. Rodriguez and Carlos J. Dorsonville.

He began his formation for a life in service to the Church at the Major Seminary of the Archdiocese of Bogotá, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in philosophy and sacred theology. He was ordained to the priesthood on November 23, 1985, in Bogotá, and subsequently served in various pastoral and academic roles in Bogotá and Arlington, Virginia.

Bishop Dorsonville’s commitment to academic excellence led him to receive a Licentiate in Sacred Theology from the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana de Bogotá in 1991 and a Doctorate in Ministry from the Catholic University of America in 1996. Throughout his studies, he continued to serve communities both in Colombia and the United States.

In 1997, Bishop Dorsonville began his service within the Archdiocese of Washington as Parochial Vicar of Our Lady of Lourdes parish in Bethesda, Maryland, followed by roles at St. Mark the Evangelist parish in Hyattsville, Maryland, and on the Board of Directors for Carroll Publishing Company. His dedication to social services and community welfare was evident in his role as the Vice President of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington and Director of the Spanish Catholic Center from 2005 to 2015.

On March 20, 2015, Bishop Dorsonville was appointed as an Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Washington

by Pope Francis and ordained to the episcopate on April 20, 2015. He served as Vicar General for the Archdiocese from 2015 to 2023 and played key roles in various boards, committees, and councils, including the Maryland Catholic Conference, and Catholic Charities.

Bishop Dorsonville chaired the Migration and Refugee Services Committee for the USCCB from 2019 to 2022 and served on several other committees dedicated to the Church’s social teachings. His tireless efforts in advocating for justice, human development, migration, and refugees reflected his deep commitment to the Gospel’s teachings.

On February 1, 2023, Bishop Dorsonville was announced as bishop for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in South Louisiana. In his brief yet impactful tenure there, he demonstrated a commitment to be with his people. Over the span of 10 months, he touched countless lives through heartfelt Masses, engaging students through school visits, and active participation in community events. His infectious smile and genuine care for everyone resonated deeply with the people of his new diocese. He hoped for a future where children, college students, and young adults would experience a conversion of heart and a commitment to a life dedicated to the Gospel message.

Bishop Dorsonville’s passion was for all people, and in a particular way for those in underserved communities.

His profound desire for the spiritual well-being of the community reflected a profound hope, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched during his time as their shepherd.

As we mourn the loss of Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, we remember a loving shepherd, a passionate leader, and a man of unwavering faith. His legacy of service and dedication to social justice will continue to inspire and guide us. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his soul find solace in the loving embrace of our Lord.

In loving memory of Bishop Dorsonville, a visitation and memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales. The visitation will take place from 9:00am to 5:30pm, followed

by Evening Prayer at 5:30pm, and a Memorial Mass for the Dead at 7:00pm. On Thursday, February 1, 2024, the Funeral Rites continue at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral with a visitation starting at 8:00am and concluding at 2:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00pm with a burial to follow on the grounds of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral.

Afterwards, a reception will be hosted at the Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center.

Bishop Dorsonville had a special love and commitment to the priesthood and the formation of priests. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville Seminarian Scholarship Endowment through the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 5

THE POWER OF SACRIFICE A FINAL REFLECTION FROM BISHOP MARIO E. DORSONVILLE

We typically associate the season of Lent with darkness and difficulty. It can be hard to give something up or take up a new sacrifice, and it can take a lot of effort to stay diligent and faithful to our commitment.

On Ash Wednesday, forty days can feel like a long time to embrace suffering and perhaps even pain. Even our church parishes are often sparsely decorated to make it feel more like a desert when we come to Mass.

Instead of this difficult and pessimistic approach to beginning this holy season, I would like to propose another way to look at Lent and the many different penances we take up during this time. Rather than pointless suffering, we can see it as an opportunity to love more fully and to grow closer to Jesus and the particular way that He loves us. Lent is, above all, a time of preparation for Holy Week and the Holy Triduum, where we commemorate the greatest acts of love that have ever occurred. In St. John’s Gospel, he relates that Jesus loved us “to the end” (John 13:1). Jesus suffered and died because His love for us knew no limits. He wanted to show us deep closeness in our inevitable suffering by choosing to suffer Himself.

In this light, Lent can be a time to unite ourselves to Jesus particularly through the gift of suffering and sacrifice.

It might be hard to think of these realities of suffering and sacrifice as a gift. When we experience them in our lives, we usually want them to end as quickly as possible so that we can move on to happier things. But when we can begin to see Jesus’ presence amid suffering, it begins to take on a new meaning. The reason we want suffering to end is that we often feel alone and hopeless in the pain we experience. Yet when I begin to see the suffering face of Jesus present with me, I can have hope that I am not alone. He who loves me “to the end” is always with me.

In this way, Lenten sacrifices, rather than being empty experiences of pain, become meaningful encounters with Jesus. Lent can bring the miracle of renewed life into our own souls as we experience the conversion that is motivated by the Holy Spirit’s action within us. Slowly but surely, our hearts are changed, “converted” in the literal sense of the word. The Greek work for conversion is “metanoia,” which means a change in direction, a change in the way that we think, a change in the direction where we are looking. When I see Lent, and the suffering that can accompany it, as a time to be close to Jesus who suffered so much for me, it begins to change the way that I look at the experiences of my life. Slowly but surely, everything that happens is seen through the lens of Christ with me – rejoicing with me, suffering with me, being with me in everything.

As we remain faithful to this, our lives become reoriented so that everything is now directed toward Jesus.

And by His grace working in me, it gives my love a new power because it becomes like His love – a love that suffers with, a love that redeems. We become so close to Jesus that it is not our own love but His love that radiates from us. And this call is not reserved for select few. It is the call of us all. It is this total conversion and this redemptive love that will bring renewal to a world that stands in great need of it. Changing the world begins with one simple act of kindness, one sacrifice offered to Jesus. May this holy season be an opportunity for all of us to stand with Jesus in His suffering and let that suffering bring redemption and love to our parishes, our families, and our own lives.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 7

El Poder Del Sacrificio Comúnmente solemos asociar la Cuaresma con la oscuridad y la dificultad. Puede ser difícil renunciar a algo o aceptar un nuevo sacrificio, y puede costar mucho esfuerzo mantenerse diligente y fiel a nuestro compromiso. El Miércoles de Ceniza, cuarenta días puede sentirse como mucho tiempo para abrazar el sufrimiento e incluso el dolor. Inclusive nuestras parroquias suelen estar escasamente decoradas para que nos sintamos más como en un desierto cuando vamos a misa.

En lugar de este enfoque difícil y pesimista para comenzar este tiempo santo, me gustaría proponer otra manera de ver la Cuaresma y las diferentes penitencias que retomamos durante este tiempo. En lugar de un sufrimiento inútil, podemos verlo como una oportunidad para amar más plenamente y acercarnos a Jesús y a la manera tan particular con la que Él nos ama. La Cuaresma es sobre todo un tiempo de preparación para la Semana Santa y el Santo Triduo, en los que conmemoramos los mayores actos de amor que jamás hayan tenido lugar. En el Evangelio de San Juan, se relata que Jesús nos amó “hasta el extremo” (Juan 13:1). Jesús sufrió y murió porque su amor por nosotros no conocía límites. Quiso mostrarnos su profunda cercanía en nuestro inevitable sufrimiento, eligiendo sufrir Él mismo. En este sentido, la Cuaresma puede ser un tiempo para unirnos a Jesús, especialmente a través del don del sufrimiento y el sacrificio.

Puede ser difícil pensar en estas realidades de sufrimiento y sacrificio como un don. Cuando las experimentamos en nuestras vidas, normalmente queremos que terminen lo más pronto posible para poder movernos a cosas más felices. Pero cuando podemos empezar a ver la presencia de Jesús en medio del sufrimiento, éste empieza a cobrar un nuevo significado. La razón por la que queremos que el sufrimiento termine es que a menudo nos sentimos solos y desesperanzados en el dolor que experimentamos. Sin embargo, cuando empiezo a ver el rostro sufriente de Jesús presente conmigo, puedo tener la esperanza de que no estoy solo. Aquel que me ama “hasta el final” está siempre conmigo.

De este modo, los sacrificios cuaresmales, en lugar de ser experiencias vacías de dolor, se convierten en encuentros significativos con Jesús. La Cuaresma puede traer el milagro de una vida renovada a nuestras propias almas, a medida que experimentamos la conversión motivada por la acción del Espíritu Santo en nosotros. Lentamente pero seguramente, nuestros corazones cambian, se “convierten” en el sentido literal de la palabra. La palabra griega para conversión es “metanoia”, que significa un cambio de dirección, un cambio en la forma en que pensamos, un cambio en la dirección hacia donde miramos. Cuando veo la Cuaresma, y el sufrimiento que puede acompañarla, como un tiempo para estar cerca de Jesús, que sufrió tanto por mí, empieza a cambiar la forma en que miro las experiencias de mi vida. Poco a poco, todo lo que sucede es visto través de los lentes de Cristo conmigo: alegrándose conmigo, sufriendo conmigo, estando conmigo en todo.

A medida que permanecemos fieles a esto, nuestras vidas se reorientan de modo que todo es dirigido ahora hacia Jesús. Y su gracia, que actúa en mí, da a mi amor una nueva fuerza, porque llega a ser parecido a su amor: un amor que sufre con, un amor que redime. Llegamos a estar tan cerca de Jesús que no es nuestro propio amor, sino Su amor que se irradia en nosotros. Y esta llamada no está reservada a unos pocos elegidos. Es la llamada para todos nosotros. Es esta conversión total y este amor redentor lo que traerá la renovación a un mundo que está muy necesitado de ello. Cambiar el mundo comienza con un simple acto de bondad, un sacrificio ofrecido a Jesús. Que este tiempo santo sea una oportunidad para todos nosotros de estar con Jesús en su sufrimiento y dejar que ese sufrimiento traiga redención y amor a nuestras parroquias, nuestras familias y nuestras propias vidas.

8 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

Quyền Năng của sự Hy Sinh Chúng ta thường liên tưởng Mùa Chay với bóng tối và khó khăn. Mùa chay có thể khó từ bỏ một điều gì đó hoặc chấp nhận một sự hy sinh mới, và có thể phải mất rất nhiều nỗ lực để giữ siêng năng và trung thành với cam kết của mình. Thứ Tư Lễ Tro, bắt đầu mùa chay bốn mươi ngày có thể cảm thấy như một thời gian dài để ôm ấp đau khổ và thậm chí có thể là đau đớn. Ngay cả các nhà thờ giáo xứ của chúng ta cũng thường được trang trí đơn giản để tạo cảm giác giống sa mạc hơn khi chúng ta đến tham dự Thánh lễ.

Thay vì cách tiếp cận khó khăn và bi quan khi bắt đầu mùa chay thánh này, tôi muốn đề nghị một cách nhìn khác về Mùa Chay và nhiều việc đền tội khác nhau mà chúng ta thực hiện trong thời gian này. Thay vì đau khổ vô nghĩa, chúng ta có thể coi đó là cơ hội để yêu thương trọn vẹn hơn và gần gũi hơn với Chúa Giêsu cũng như cách thức đặc biệt mà Ngài yêu thương chúng ta. Mùa Chay trước hết là thời gian chuẩn bị cho Tuần Thánh và Tam Nhật Thánh, dịp chúng ta tưởng nhớ những cử chỉ yêu thương cao cả nhất đã xảy ra. Trong Tin mừng Thánh Gioan, ngài thuật lại rằng Chúa Giêsu đã yêu thương chúng ta “đến cùng” (Ga 13:1). Chúa Giêsu chịu đau khổ và chết vì tình yêu của Ngài dành cho chúng ta không có giới hạn. Ngài muốn cho chúng ta thấy sự gần gũi sâu sắc trước nỗi đau khổ không thể tránh khỏi của chúng ta bằng cách chọn chịu đau khổ cho chính mình. Trong ánh sáng này, Mùa chay có thể là thời gian để chúng ta kết hợp với Chúa Giêsu cách đặc biệt qua hồng ân đau khổ và hy sinh.

Có thể khó mà coi những thực tế đau khổ và hy sinh này như một món quà. Khi trải nghiệm chúng trong cuộc sống, chúng ta thường muốn chúng kết thúc càng nhanh càng tốt để có thể hướng tới những điều hạnh phúc hơn. Nhưng khi chúng ta có thể bắt đầu nhìn thấy sự hiện diện của Chúa Giêsu giữa đau khổ, thì sự hiện diện đó bắt đầu mang một ý nghĩa mới. Lý do chúng ta muốn chấm dứt đau khổ là vì chúng ta thường cô đơn và vô vọng trước nỗi đau mà mình phải trải qua. Tuy nhiên, khi tôi bắt đầu nhìn thấy khuôn mặt đau khổ của Chúa Giêsu hiện diện với tôi, tôi có thể hy vọng rằng tôi không cô đơn. Người yêu tôi “đến cùng” luôn ở bên tôi.

Bằng cách này, những hy sinh trong Mùa chay, thay vì chỉ là những trải nghiệm đau đớn trống rỗng, đã trở thành những cuộc gặp gỡ đầy ý nghĩa với Chúa Giêsu. Mùa chay có thể mang phép lạ của sự sống được đổi mới vào tâm hồn chúng ta khi chúng ta trải nghiệm sự hoán cải được thúc đẩy bởi hành động của Chúa Thánh Thần trong chúng ta. Chậm mà chắc, tâm hồn chúng ta được thay đổi, được “hoán cải” theo đúng nghĩa đen của từ này. Ý nghĩa sự hoán cải trong từ Hy Lạp là “metanoia”, có nghĩa là sự thay đổi về phương hướng, sự thay đổi trong cách chúng ta suy nghĩ, sự thay đổi trong phương hướng mà chúng ta đang nhìn.

Khi tôi nhìn thấy Mùa chay và nỗi đau khổ có thể đi kèm với nó, là thời gian để gần gũi với Chúa Giêsu, Đấng đã chịu đau khổ rất nhiều vì tôi, nó bắt đầu thay đổi cách tôi nhìn về những trải nghiệm trong cuộc đời mình. Chậm mà chắc, mọi sự xảy ra đều được nhìn qua lăng kính của Chúa Kitô ở với tôi - vui với tôi, đau khổ với tôi, ở cùng tôi trong mọi sự.

Khi chúng ta trung thành với điều này, cuộc sống của chúng ta sẽ được định hướng lại để mọi sự giờ đây đều hướng về Chúa Giêsu. Và nhờ ân sủng Ngài hoạt động trong tôi, nó mang lại cho tình yêu của tôi một sức mạnh mới vì nó trở nên giống tình yêu của Ngài - một tình yêu chịu đau khổ, một tình yêu cứu chuộc.

Chúng ta trở nên gần gũi với Chúa Giêsu đến nỗi không phải tình yêu của chúng ta mà là tình yêu của Ngài tỏa ra từ chúng ta. Và lời mời gọi này không dành riêng cho một số ít người được chọn. Đó là lời mời gọi của tất cả chúng ta. Chính sự hoán cải hoàn toàn này và tình yêu cứu chuộc này sẽ mang lại sự đổi mới cho một thế giới đang rất cần đến nó. Việc thay đổi thế giới bắt đầu bằng một nghĩa cử tử tế đơn giản, một sự hy sinh dâng lên Chúa Giêsu. Cầu mong mùa thánh này là cơ hội để tất cả chúng ta sát cánh với Chúa Giêsu trong đau khổ của Ngài và để nỗi đau khổ đó mang lại sự cứu chuộc và yêu thương cho giáo xứ, gia đình và cuộc sống của chính chúng ta.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 9

REMEMBERING

BISHOP DORSONVILLE A MESSAGE FROM FR. SIMON PETER ENGURAIT, DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATOR My dear brothers and sisters, the family of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, the grace and peace of the Lord be with you.

As you may be aware, following the death of Bishop Mario Dorsonville and in accordance with the provisions of Canon Law, the College of Consultors elected me to serve you as the Diocesan Administrator until our holy father appoints a new bishop. This is an immense task and I am humbled by the confidence they have in me. I pray that the Lord will grant me the grace to serve each one of you well even as we grieve together the loss of our beloved shepherd, Bishop Mario Dorsonville.

The gospel relates that on the occasion of the death of his friend Lazarus, our Lord wept and at this the people said, ‘see how much he loved him (Lazarus)’ (John 11:16). May we therefore be reminded that we grieve because we love. Let us take comfort in the knowledge of our love for him and his love for us. He loved the people of Houma-Thibodaux greatly and considered himself blessed to be part of this diocesan family. In spite of never having visited Louisiana, Houma-Thibodaux quickly became home to him. I am deeply grateful to all of those who organized and participated in the Funeral Rites of Bishop Dorsonville.

To begin his ministry in this local church, Bishop Dorsonville was installed as the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma and in fulfillment of his request we laid him to rest at the cathedral dedicated to his patron, St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux. His last wishes were a sign of the beginning and end of his ministry in our diocese—his alpha and omega.

Let us remember to pray for Bishop Dorsonville, that he may receive his eternal reward in the company of our heavenly Father and the communion of saints. May our grief be accompanied by great hope—hope of a new intercessor in heaven, hope for our own salvation, hope for life everlasting.

As we move forward as a diocese, though we may feel tossed by the storms of our own grief, let us hold on to the promise of our Emmanuel—God with us.

Please pray for me.

Fr. Simon Peter Engurait Diocesan Administrator Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

10 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

A REFLECTION FROM FR. PATRICK RIVIERE, PRIEST SECRETARY When Bishop Dorsonville first approached me to be his full-time secretary, I’ll admit, I wasn’t thrilled about leaving Our Lady of Prompt Succor in Chackbay. It was a place I loved, where good things were happening, and I was hesitant to disrupt that momentum. But as I prayed about it, a deep conviction emerged—a sense that God was asking me to say “yes.”

Leaving Chackbay was one of the hardest things I had ever done at the time. It meant giving up preaching, spiritual direction, and all the things I became a priest to do. Instead, I expected a lot of administrative tasks—my “kryptonite.” However, my time with Bishop Dorsonville revealed that the job was about something deeper—the gift of accompanying him through his experiences.

Working with him wasn’t just about emails and calendars; it was about forming a genuine relationship. What stood out the most was Bishop Dorsonville’s intentional care for me. He wasn’t just a boss; he became a father figure, demonstrating a love and concern that never wavered. Saying “yes” to him became a journey of unexpected blessings from the Lord.

Our daily routine, starting with Mass in his chapel, brought a sense of family. Each morning, I would walk into his house and find him sitting in his chapel praying, rosary in hand, the Eucharist exposed on the altar. The laughter, the jokes, and the shared meals—it felt like we were a little trio, navigating life together. Bishop Dorsonville’s humor, his genuine interest in people, especially the “youngsters”, made the experience unique and joyful.

Reflecting on his ministry, I see a shepherd with a heart for the “lost sheep.” His focus was on drawing people back to the Faith, emphasizing the beauty and simplicity of it all. He didn’t get distracted by analyzing problems or implementing policy. What struck me was his conviction that Jesus was the answer to everything. His unwavering faith and love for Jesus shaped his approach to ministry.

Bishop Dorsonville’s dedication to being with the people was remarkable. Despite health concerns, he insisted on encountering them, giving his full attention to each person as if they were the only one in the room. His selfless example echos the heart of the Good Shepherd, inspiring me to imitate his total gift of self.

As we navigated his last days, the peace and trust he had in the Lord’s providence were evident. His focus on heaven, even amidst health challenges, was a powerful testimony to his unwavering faith. I found myself not only processing my own grief but also reaching out to those who loved him, assuring them that Bishop Dorsonville was never alone.

The impact he had on everyone, from doctors and nurses to those he encountered daily, was a testament to the love he radiated. His legacy, characterized by love, joy and an unshakeable faith, is something I am profoundly grateful for.

I invite us all to think of Bishop Dorsonville’s influence in our diocese as just beginning. He has so much more to do, and death can’t stop that. In his passing, Bishop Dorsonville leaves us with a challenge—to imagine a world where we all love like he did. A world where simple acts of kindness, genuine connections, and a missionary spirit transform lives. It’s not about grand programs but about preaching Jesus, loving Jesus, and loving the person in front of us. That’s the transformative legacy Bishop Dorsonville leaves behind.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 11

PRAYER

“I ASK YOU

TO KEEP ME ALWAYS IN YOUR PRAYERS, AND PLEASE KNOW THAT FROM NOW ON, YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS.

HEART OF THE CHURCH HOMILY AT THE INSTALLATION OF BISHOP DORSONVILLE

When I learned that the holy father had named me bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, I realized that a new chapter of my life had begun, knowing that the book gets better as the chapters go on.

I don’t have any doubt, I put my trust in Jesus Christ because whenever He gives us a mission, He also gives us the strength and wisdom to carry it out. The Gospel of John presents to us the image of Jesus the Good Shepherd. As the Good Shepherd, He serves and lays down His life for His people.

This might be one intention that I would like to put into your prayers, that in my words, actions, and deeds from now on, you don’t recognize my voice, but a faithful instrument of Jesus Christ.

Hence, we learn through prayer that Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve, and to lay down His life for us. When we recognize Him in the Eucharistic celebration, we come to know the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. We can follow Him because we know He loves us since He cares for us, guides us, and leads us to salvation. In His hands, in His heart, we are safe.

Every bishop receives a call from God to be a good shepherd for the people entrusted to him. Not a manager, although good management is important. Not a fundraiser, although economic health is important. A bishop is a shepherd who follows Christ, the Good Shepherd, and leads others to Him by word and example of life, by celebrating the sacramental life of the Church. A bishop becomes the powerful instrument of the Holy Spirit to make present God’s love in each individual and family.

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Allow me now to dedicate a word to my presbyterate.

As your new shepherd, know that I am close to you in prayer and in my heart. It is my desire to listen to you and to get to know you. This way, we realize that a shepherd who knows the hopes and the fears, the joys and the sorrows of his priests and the people of his diocese is a shepherd who sees the face of Jesus Christ in the face of every person in the path we walk together.

For this reason, one of the main devotions of my priestly life has been to build up the dignity of the human person. In loving the poor, in this moment, fixing my eyes on the people that are still struggling to rebuild their homes and their normal lives after the last hurricane. We are here for them, and we will never be indifferent. By loving the poor and creating opportunities for each person, we follow the example we read and we learn in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I connect these spiritual reflections with Pope Francis’ when he encourages bishops to stay in touch with people, to devote more time to them than to the desk.

Our holy father added that to be close to the people of God is to identify with them in the same way. I want to be out there meeting people in the diocese; out in the periphery of our diocese with the lay people, the priests, the permanent deacons and the religious. This is what it means to be a bishop. This is what, with God’s help and your prayers, I hope to be.

Brothers and sisters, as today we begin our journey together, I ask you to keep me always in your prayers, and please know that from now on, you are in my prayers–your families, our dear children, our youth, our young professionals. And I invite all of you in the name of the Good Shepherd to walk together as we answer God’s call to continue to build up the Church we love in this Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. If we do the right tasks, we will be closer to holiness. And let us commend this intention to the intercession of Our Holy Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, in her advocation as Our Lady of Prompt Succor.

I would like to close this brief reflection by quoting St. John Paul II’s thoughts about new chapters in our lives. ‘Let us,’ he said, ‘Remember the past with gratitude, live the present with enthusiasm, and look forward to the future with confidence.’ May the Lord bless you. Amen

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A SHEPHERD WHO KNOWS THE HOPES AND THE FEARS, THE JOYS AND THE SORROWS OF HIS PRIESTS AND THE PEOPLE OF HIS DIOCESE IS A SHEPHERD WHO SEES THE FACE OF JESUS CHRIST IN THE FACE OF EVERY PERSON.

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PRAYER

PRACTICAL PRAYER

THE WAY OF THE CROSS ADAPTED FROM DYNAMIC CATHOLIC

For centuries, faithful Christians have visited sites linked to the Lord’s Passion. Tradition holds that the Blessed Mother initiated this practice, with formal marking of the pathway in AD 313 after Constantine’s legalization of Christianity.

Christians worldwide replicate these holy places to engage in the devotional Way of the Cross without traveling to the Holy Land. Pope Clement XII permitted stations in all churches, and Pope Benedict XIII extended indulgences.

Praying the Way of the Cross, meditating on the Lord’s Passion at each station, grants a plenary indulgence, freeing the participant from temporal punishment due to sin. Additional requirements include sincere repentance, commitment to a holy life, reception of Reconciliation and Holy Communion, and a prayer for the holy father.

1JESUS IS CONDEMNED TO DEATH

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: Jesus was innocent, but He chose to accept His death to save us. Have you ever been falsely accused? How did you respond?

At the Cross her station keeping, Stood the mournful Mother weeping, Close to Jesus to the last.

2JESUS CARRIES THE CROSS

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: Jesus’ cross was literal, but we all have crosses we bear in this life. It’s easy to get caught up in our own world and focus on our own cross. Do you grant others grace the way you want others to do for you?

Through her heart, His sorrow sharing, All His bitter anguish bearing, Now at length the sword has passed.

3JESUS FALLS FOR THE FIRST TIME

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: Jesus was physically and emotionally exhausted by the weight of His cross. His followers had betrayed Him. Reflect on a time when you have felt burdened with the weight of the world. Even in hard moments, Jesus gives us an opportunity to pick up and keep going.

O how sad and sore distressed, Was that Mother, highly blest, Of the sole-begotten One.

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JESUS MEETS HIS MOTHER Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: A mother has a unique outlook on her child’s life. Reflect on how distraught Mary must have felt as she watched her Son endure complete agony.

Christ above in torment hangs, She beneath beholds the pangs Of her dying glorious Son.

5SIMON HELPS JESUS CARRY HIS CROSS

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: Do you think Simon wanted to help Jesus carry His cross, or was he picked out of the crowd and afraid of the Roman soldiers? When have you helped someone carry their cross? Were you willing to help or were you resentful?

Is there one who would not weep, Whelmed in miseries so deep, Christ’s dear Mother to behold?.

6VERONICA WIPES THE FACE OF JESUS

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: It wasn’t safe to be a known follower of Jesus, yet she took the time to help Him when He needed it. When have you stepped outside of your comfort zone to offer support or kindness, even if it was unpopular?

Can the human heart refrain From partaking in her pain, In that Mother’s pain untold?

7JESUS FALLS A SECOND TIME

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: We all make mistakes, we all fall down. How can you try to find the strength to rise again?

Bruised, derided, cursed, defiled, She beheld her tender Child All with bloody scourges rent:

For the sins of His own nation, Saw Him hang in desolation, Till His spirit forth He sent.

8JESUS MEETS THE WOMEN OF JERUSALEM

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: Even in the midst of His agony, Jesus recognized the pain of others. Are you so caught up in yourself, in your own pain, that you fail to comfort others? How can you support your friends and family in their own time of need?

O thou Mother! Fount of love!

Touch my spirit from above, Make my heart with thine accord:

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9JESUS FALLS A THIRD TIME

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

12JESUS DIES ON THE CROSS

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: Sheer exhaustion made Jesus fall not once, not twice, but three times. Is there an area in your life that you keep messing up or falling short? Where can you turn to find the strength to stand up yet again?

Reflection: After three hours of complete agony, Jesus dies. And in doing so, He saves us from our sins and allows us a chance at eternal life. Can you spend time this week reflecting on the ultimate sacrifice?

Make me feel as thou hast felt; Make my soul to glow and melt With the love of Christ my Lord.

Let me mingle tears with thee, Mourning Him who mourned for me, All the days that I may live:

10JESUS IS STRIPPED OF HIS GARMENTS

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

13JESUS’ BODY IS REMOVED FROM THE CROSS

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: After the pain, and the blood, and the sweat, Jesus now faces humiliation. His clothes, His dignity, have been stripped away even further. When have you been utterly humiliated? When have you caused someone else humiliation?

Holy Mother! Pierce me through, In my heart each wound renew Of my Savior crucified:

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JESUS IS NAILED TO THE CROSS

Reflection: The world was still. Jesus’ mother, Mary, and other disciples had broken hearts. And yet they lovingly and tenderly removed His body from the cross. Where can you offer comfort and support today?

By the Cross with thee to stay, There with thee to weep and pray, Is all I ask of thee to give.

14JESUS IS LAID IN THE TOMB

Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: Touch your hands. Imagine stakes being driven into them. Imagine that you could make it all go away in an instant - and you don’t. Jesus chose this pain and sacrifice for us. Where in your life can you sacrifice for someone else?

Let me share with thee His pain, Who for all my sins was slain, Who for me in torments died.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Lord Jesus Christ, your passion and death is the sacrifice that unites earth and heaven and reconciles all people to you. May we who have faithfully reflected on these mysteries follow in your steps and so come to share your glory in heaven where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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Leader: We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You. All: Because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.

Reflection: For the moment, all hope appears to be lost.

But God’s greatest moment, the Resurrection, is about to begin. Reflect on your life. When has something incredible happened after a time of difficulty? How did that change you?

Virgin of all virgins blest!

Listen to my fond request; Let me share thy grief divine:

Let me to my latest breath, In my body bear the death Of that dying Son of thine.

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PRAYER Jesus was preaching Truth, but the people rejected Truth and chose instead what was familiar and comfortable. As disciples, we too will be invited by Jesus to live in the Truth of Christ, but it will often be uncomfortable and unfamiliar to the life we anticipated. There may be suffering, and sacrifice involved in a life lived with Christ which is what we see leading up to His Cross and Resurrection.

Most Christians are very familiar with the events surrounding the death and resurrection of Jesus, but how did we get there? How did the people decide that this Man, who performed great miracles and claimed to be the salvation they’d long awaited, should be put to death? This Lent, let us dive into the Gospels and journey with Jesus throughout His public ministry that ultimately leads to the Cross.

As we walk together this Lenten season, may we remember the journey that has come before the path to Calvary. Let us respond to the call to repent and believe in a new way this Lent, so that we will be ready to receive the glory of the Resurrection at Easter.

THE JOURNEY TO THE CROSS FROM BELOVED TEACHER TO MISUNDERSTOOD MESSIAH

I. “…THIS SCRIPTURE PASSAGE IS FULFILLED IN YOUR HEARING.” | LUKE 4:16-30 Read Luke 4:16-22 1. What is profound about Jesus reading this passage from the Prophet Isaiah?

Answer: Isaiah speaks of the coming Messiah, Jesus is reading a prophesy about Himself.

2. How does scripture say the people listening responded?

Answer: Verses 20-22 tell us “the eyes of all in the synagogue looked intently at him…” and “all spoke highly of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth.” They also said “Is not this Joseph’s son?” They were amazed, but at the same time doubted and questioned.

3. Why do you think they spoke well about Him and at the same time questioned Him? Answer: Reflection and discussion. These people knew Jesus and His family. They were likely proud that He had become a great rabbi and maybe they had even felt that something here was different, but their lack of faith kept them from seeing the truth that Jesus was revealing to them.

4. What can we conclude about the expectations of the people?

Answer: They expected Him to teach about things they already knew… things they were familiar with.

This is one of the first times in Luke’s Gospel that Jesus illudes to the fact that He is the Messiah. Here He claims that He is the fulfillment of what the Old Testament prophets have promised.

How have our expectations made it difficult to receive the Lord in our lives? In your own experience of Jesus, what things are hard for you to believe? What doubts do you experience in your heart?

Answer: Reflection and discussion.

Read 4:23-30 1. What is Jesus’ initial response to the peoples’ questions of His background?

Answer: Read verses 23-24.

2. Why does He say this? What can we infer by His mention of Capernaum?

Answer: He says this, in part, to challenge them. He sees their lack of faith and speaks in truth. From this statement we can infer that He has already begun His public ministry and they have heard of the miracles He’s preformed, but they have doubts and want to see it for themselves. After all, isn’t this Joseph’s Son? They know Him. How can this be?

3. Why does Jesus tell them this story about the prophets Elijah and Elisha? What is significant about these two accounts? Wouldn’t these people be familiar with this story?

Answer: Jesus uses the accounts of the prophets Elijah and Elisha to demonstrate how faithlessness can contribute to a prophet’s ministry in a place. He reminds them that while there were in fact many people who would have benefited from the miracles performed by the prophets, it was the few faithful people who received the benefits of their ministry.

He’s drawing the same conclusion of these people.

He tells them these accounts, so that they may repent and believe in Him. These words are true and direct, but they are meant for the good of all to serve as a reminder of what can happen if the people remain faithless.

4. How do the people react to these words from Jesus?

Why are they so angry?

Answer: The people become furious and attempt to drive Jesus out of the town with the intention of throwing Him off a ledge. Often, when we are faced with a reality that is uncomfortable, we become angry or closed off. But if the people were to listen with humility, the outcome of this conversation could have been one of conversion and repentance.

Have we experienced this in our own lives? Can you think of a time when you were closed off to what was new and unfamiliar? Can you think of a time when you entered an uncomfortable situation with humility?

Answer: Reflection and discussion.

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II. “THE SON OF MAN IS LORD OF THE SABBATH.” | LUKE 6: 1-11 Note: The Pharisees were considered righteous in the time of Jesus and were responsible for upholding the Jewish law. It is important to note that the Jewish law at this time originates from Moses, but the high-ranking officials have continued to add to them for the sake of rules and laws and power for themselves. The scribes and Pharisees are often more concerned with ensuring that every person follows the law, than they are with love of God or even following the laws themselves.

Read Luke 6:1-5 1. What are the disciples doing when the Pharisees accuse them of doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath? Why is it unlawful?

Answer: They are picking heads of grain to eat. It is unlawful for man to do any work on the Sabbath. Yes, even picking grains of wheat. The Sabbath is meant to be a day of rest.

2. How does Jesus respond to these accusations?

Answer: He gives them an example from the scriptures they would have been very familiar with that disputes their claim. And says, “The Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.”

3. What is significant about Jesus’ response?

Answer: He does not claim that He is Lord of the Sabbath, but simply states that, “the Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.”

Jesus is still not directly saying who He is but is allowing the people come to their own conclusions, through their own faithfulness and knowledge of scripture and tradition and belief in Him.

Read Luke 6:5-11 1. At this point in Jesus’ public ministry the scribes and Pharisees are watching Him closely, looking for any reason to put an end to His teachings. They see a man in need of healing, they know that Jesus can in fact heal him. So, they watch on, waiting for Him to break the law. Why?

Answer: Because the scribes and Pharisees were more concerned about upholding the laws and keeping the status quo than they were with doing good works.

2. We hear in verse 8 that Jesus “knew their thoughts,” so He takes this opportunity to teach. What does Jesus ask the people? Why is this significant? What might He be trying to teach them?

Answer: Read verse 9. He is calling them to a deeper understanding of the purpose of the “rules.” He heals the withered hand so the man can enter into the “rest” of the Sabbath. Jesus wants God’s faithful to invite others into a restorative relationship with God. To give up one’s own rest, so that someone else may “rest” or be “restored” is to choose the better part.

3. How did the scribes and Pharisees react to Jesus healing the man? What do you think causes this response?

Answer: They were filled with fury and began discussing a plan for His demise. It may have been fear of the unknown or unfamiliar that lead to this anger with Jesus and His ministry. He was disrupting the way of life they had become accustomed to and this new way of teaching was not what they wanted. This new way of teaching threatened the securities they held most dear.

How has Jesus called you outside of what is familiar in your own life? How have you responded?

Answer: Reflection and discussion.

III. “THE FATHER AND I ARE ONE.” | JOHN 10:22-39 Read John 10:22-31 1. What do the Jews ask Jesus?

Answer: Read verse 24. They ask if He is the Messiah to simply tell them.

2. What impression does this give you of their disposition?

Have we asked similar questions in our walk with Christ?

Answer: Reflection and discussion. It appears they want to believe that Jesus is who He says He is, but they want to be certain. This illudes to a lack of faith. Maybe we’ve asked God to “prove it” in certain situations that were difficult or maybe we’ve asked Him to tell us plainly the plans He has for our lives.

3. Do we have our own expectations in our relationship with Jesus? Do we ask God questions and expect Him to answer in a certain way? Or are we open to His truth and plan in our lives?

Answer: Reflection and discussion.

2. What does Jesus say to them? Why do you think He continues to engage in the conversation with them even though they have rejected Him and rebuked Him? Answer: He points back to scripture and to the good works He has done. He begs them to believe in Him, not for His own sake, but for theirs. He is not concerned for His fate, but He is concerned with bringing them to know and understand the truth….that they may have eternal life.

3. How do the people respond?

Answer: Read verse 39.

In our own lives, have we resisted Truth or Church teaching? How might the Lord desire to enter those places of resistance with us? How might He be calling us to respond?

Answer: Reflection and discussion.

4. How does Jesus respond to the people questioning?

Answer: Read verses 25-30. He affirms that He is who they think He is, but reminds them that He has already told them, but they do not believe. This also gives evidence to a lack of faith in the people. He even points to the works that He is doing that fulfill the words of the prophets that would be common knowledge to the people.

5. What does Jesus mean by “you are not among my sheep”?

Is He condemning the people?

Answer: Rather than condemning the people, Jesus speaks plainly as they have asked Him to do. Being among His sheep, being a disciple, a follower of Christ is an invitation to each of us, but one we must choose for ourselves. He is suggesting that they have chosen to not be among His sheep and therefore do not believe.

Read John 10:31-39 1. Why do the Jews pick up rocks to stone Jesus?

Answer: Read verse 33. They reject the truth He is proclaiming. If they are not His sheep, the chosen people of God, then who is? They do not believe in Him and therefore He is breaking their laws. He has committed blasphemy, making Himself God.

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IV. “…FROM THAT DAY ON THEY PLANNED TO KILL HIM.” | JOHN 11:45-57 Read John 11:45-52 1. What caused many to believe in Him? What happens immediately before the scripture we just read?

Answer: Read verses 41-44. He raised Lazarus from the dead.

2. As people are sharing this incredible news and giving testimony to what they witnessed Jesus do, the Pharisees become aware of the situation. What is their reaction to this news? Why do you think they react in such a way?

Answer: Read verses 47-48. They are concerned, afraid even, that all will eventually believe in Him. They see the great signs He is performing and feel as though they must do something to stop Him for fear of the Romans.

3. The Pharisees would be very familiar with the words of the prophets who point to Jesus as the Messiah, yet they do not believe. Why do you think the Pharisees do not believe in Jesus?

Answer: Even though He is fulfilling the Old Testament prophesies, He is not what they expected. He comes with mercy for those they had cast off, with justice for the upright who’s hearts are unclean. He comes not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it, doing good works on the Sabbath and bringing repentance to sinners. Because they confused fulfillment or purpose of the law with merely carrying out of the law, what Jesus was doing felt like a complete change to them. It should have felt like everything falling into place.

4. How does Caiaphas respond to the concern from the Sanhedrin? What is significant about what he says here?

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may not perish. The Jewish people often associated the gift of prophecy with the high priest. Here he prophesies that Jesus will die for the nation and bring together the children of God. He just doesn’t know what this will mean for the nation.

Have we ever been at a crossroads like this with the Lord?

What makes it difficult to believe in Jesus in our own lives?

Answer: Reflection and discussion.

Read John 11:53-57 1. How does reading these words make you feel?

Answer: Reflection and discussion. This plot to kill Jesus might make you feel uneasy, sad, disgusted, or desperate.

2. What is the motivating factor behind this plan to kill Jesus?

Answer: Fear and faithlessness.

3. How can a Man who does so many good works be plotted against like this? How desperate must they have been to maintain the status quo and to keep Him quiet to need to kill Him? Answer: Reflection and discussion.

4. Maybe we have experienced a desperation like this in our own lives? What would happen if we invited Jesus into the mess and allowed Him to be Lord even over the desperate places…the places we fear the most? What if we let Him be Lord over our whole lives, not just the tidy places?

Answer: Reflection and discussion.

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WHAT MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO BELIEVE IN JESUS IN OUR OWN LIVES?

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PRAYER

SAINT STORIES

SAINT JOSEPHINE BAKHITA

St. Josephine Bakhita’s journey from slavery to sanctity is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of God’s grace.

In the late 1800s, she was abducted from her home in Sudan by slave traders at the tender age of seven and endured the unimaginable suffering of being sold and resold. The frightful circumstances in which she found herself caused her to forget her birth name. Bakhita, meaning “lucky” was the name given to her by the slave traders.

After 12 years of brutal treatment, her life took a significant turn when she was eventually sold to an Italian diplomat, Callisto Legnani. To Bakhita’s surprise, she experienced warmth and joy among Legnani’s company. She traveled to Italy with him where she met the Canossian Sisters. Bakhita encountered the love of Christ through the kindness and care of the Sisters, leading her to convert to Catholicism.

She said, “Seeing the sun, the moon, and the stars, I said to myself: Who could be the Master of these beautiful things? And I felt a great desire to know Him and to pay Him homage.”

Upon gaining her freedom from slavery, Bakhita chose to dedicate her life to God by joining the Canossian Sisters.

She took the name Josephine and embraced a life of prayer, service, and humility. Her joyful spirit and profound gratitude for God’s mercy became evident in her daily life, inspiring those around her. One of her duties was attending the door of the convent, where she would lay hands on the children in attendance of the Cassonian schools. Her gentle caress and friendly voice, imbued with the inflection and rhythm of her heritage was a comfort to the poor and suffering who visited.

St. Josephine Bakhita’s legacy lies in her ability to overcome the horrors of slavery through faith and forgiveness. Despite the immense pain of her past, she chose not to harbor resentment or hatred. Instead, she forgave her captors and found solace in the embrace of a loving God. She said, “If I was to meet those slave raiders that abducted me and those who tortured me, I’d kneel down to kiss their hands, because, if it had not have been for them, I would not have become a Christian and religious woman.”

Bakhita’s canonization in 2000 by Pope John Paul II further solidified her legacy as a Saint. She exchanged trauma and oppression for love of God and it exuded her being. St. Josephine Bakhita’s life encourages all God’s faithful to seek healing, embrace the transformative power of His love, and extend forgiveness even in the face of profound injustice.

She said, “Be good, love the Lord, pray for those who do not know Him. What a great grace it is to know God!” We are all called to the level of forgiveness and reliance on God that transcends all suffering whether self-inflicted or externally imposed. Following the example of St. Josephine Bakhita and through her intercession, may we experience transformation by God’s grace this Lent.

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BE GOOD, LOVE THE LORD, PRAY FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW HIM. WHAT A GREAT GRACE IT IS TO KNOW GOD!

PRAYER

FEBRUARY PRAYER

DAILY

FOR PRIESTS, DEACONS, RELIGIOUS, AND SEMINARIANS SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

3

Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville

Bishop Emeritus Rev. Joseph Sam Jacobs Chacko

7

8

9

4

5

Rev. Cody Chatagnier

Rev. Carl Collins Deacon Chris Prestenback

Rev. Van Constant

Rev. RobertJoel Cruz

Rev. Vicente De Rev. Daniel La Cruz, JCL, VF Duplantis

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

Rev. Cletus Egbi

Seminarian Ethan Henry

Rev. Thomas R. Bouterie

Rev. Brice Higginbotham

Rev. Stuart King

Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait

Rev. Antonio (Speedy) Farrugia

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

Deacon Timothy Vedros

Rev. Nathaniel Maria Gadalia

Rev. Alex Gaudet

Rev. Rholando Grecia

Rev. Sabino (Benie) Rebosura

Rev. Francis Kayaye

Rev. Noas Kerketta, I.M.S.

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26

27

28

29

Rev. Thomas Kuriakose

Rev. Baby (Phillip) Kuruvilla

Rev. Brett Lapeyrouse

Rev. Joseph Lapeyrouse

Sister Miriam Therese Mire, C.S.J., retired

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6

WEDNESDAY

10

FEBRUARY READINGS SCRIPTURE

SUNDAY

4

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

Feast of The 3

1 Kgs 2:1-4, 10-12 Mk 6:7-13

Mal 3:1-4 Heb 2:14-18 Lk 2:22-40 or 2:22-32

1 Kgs 3:4-13 Mk 6:30-34

Presentation of the Lord

Memorial of St. Blaze

5

6

7

8

9

10

Jb 7:1-4, 6-7 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23 Mk 1:29-39

1 Kgs 8:1-7, 9-13 Mk 6:53-56

1 Kgs 8:22-23, 27-30 Mk 7:1-13

1 Kgs 10:1-10 Mk 7:14-23

1 Kgs 11:4-13 Mk 7:24-30

1 Kgs 11:29-32; 12:19 Mk 7:31-37

1 Kgs 12:26-32; 13:33-34 Mk 8:1-10

11

12

13

14

Lv 13:1-2, 44-46 1 Cor 10:31—11:1 Mk 1:40-45

Jas 1:1-11 Mk 8:11-13

Jas 1:12-18 Mk 8:14-21

18

19

Gn 9:8-15 1 Pt 3:18-22 Mk 1:12-15 25

Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Sunday of Lent

Second Sunday of Lent

Gn 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18 Rom 8:31b-34 Mk 9:2-10

Memorial of St. Josephine Bakhita

Memorial of St. Scholastica

15

16

17

Jl 2:12-18 2 Cor 5:20—6:2 Mt 6:1-6, 16-18

Dt 30:15-20 Lk 9:22-25

Is 58:1-9a Mt 9:14-15

Is 58:9b-14 Lk 5:27-32

20

21

22

23

24

Lv 19:1-2, 11-18 Mt 25:31-46

Is 55:10-11 Mt 6:7-15

Jon 3:1-10 Lk 11:29-32

1 Pt 5:1-4 Mt 16:13-19

Ez 18:21-28 Mt 5:20-26

Dt 26:16-19 Mt 5:43-48

26

27

28

29

Dn 9:4b-10 Lk 6:36-38

Is 1:10, 16-20 Mt 23:1-12

Jer 18:18-20 Mt 20:17-28

Jer 17:5-10 Lk 16:19-31

Ash Wednesday

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 35

MARCH PRAYER

DAILY

FOR PRIESTS, DEACONS, RELIGIOUS, AND SEMINARIANS SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

Rev. Alex Lazarra

Rev. PeterTai Le

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Rev. Glenn LeCompte

Very Rev. Eric Leyble, JCL

Rev. Joey Lirette

Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville

Rev. P.J. Madden, retired

Rev. Clyde Mahler

Rev. Fernando Maya Maida

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

Rev. John David Rev. Andre Matherne Melancon VF

Deacon Timothy White

Rev. Thankachan (John) Nambusseril VF

Rev. Jean Marie Rev. Joseph Nsambu Than yan Liem CRM

Rev. Samuel Okeyre

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

Rev. Joseph Pilola

Rev. Matthew Prosperie

Bishop Emeritus Very Rev. Sam Jacobs Joshua Rodrigue

Rev. Ronilo (Roni) Villamor

Deacon Douglas Authement, retired

Deacon Daniel Bascle, retired

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Deacon Gerald Belanger, retired

Sister Mary Bernadette Trang-Tien Nguyen FMSR

Rev. Michael Bergeron, retired

Msgr. Frederic Brunet, retired

Rev. Domingo Cruz, retired

Rev. Wilfredo Decal, retired

Rev. Scott Dugas, retired

31 Rev. Roch Naquin, retired

36 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

MARCH READINGS SCRIPTURE

SUNDAY

3

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

Gn 37:3-4, 1213a, 17b-28a Mt 21:33-43, 45-46

Mi 7:14-15, 18-20 Lk 15:1-3, 11-32

4

5

6

7

8

9

Ex 20:1-17 1 Cor 1:22-25 Jn 2:13-25

2 Kgs 5:1-15ab Lk 4:24-30

Dn 3:25, 34-43 Mt 18:21-35

Dt 4:1, 5-9 Mt 5:17-19

Jer 7:23-28 Lk 11:14-23

Hos 14:2-10 Mk 12:28-34

Hos 6:1-6 Lk 18:9-14

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

2 Chr 36:14-16, 19-23 Eph 2:4-10 Jn 3:14-21

Is 65:17-21 Jn 4:43-54

Ez 47:1-9, 12 Jn 5:1-16

Is 49:8-15 Jn 5:17-30

Ex 32:7-14 Jn 5:31-47

Wis 2:1a, 12-22 Jn 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

Jer 11:18-20 Jn 7:40-53

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

Dn 3:14-20, 9192, 95 Jn 8:31-42

Gn 17:3-9 Jn 8:51-59

Jer 20:10-13 Jn 10:31-42

Ez 37:21-28 Jn 11:45-56

26

27

28

29

30

Is 49:1-6 Jn 13:21-33, 36-38

Is 50:4-9a Mt 26:14-25

Ex 12:1-8, 11-14 1 Cor 11:23-26 Jn 13:1-15

Third Sunday of Lent

Fourth Sunday of Lent

Fifth Sunday of Lent

Jer 31:31-34 Heb 5:7-9 Jn 12:20-33

Dn 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62 Jn 8:1-11

24

25

Palm Sunday

Mk 11:1-10 Is 42:1-7 Is 50:4-7 Jn 12:1-11 Phil 2:6-11 Mk 14:1—15:47 or 15:1-39 31

Solemnity of St. Joseph, Spouse of The Blessed Virgin Mary

2 Sm 7:4-5a, 1214a, 16 Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22 Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a

Holy Thursday

Good Friday

Is 52:13—53:12 Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9 Jn 18:1—19:42

Holy Saturday

Gn 1:1—2:2/Gn 22:1-18/Ex 14:15—15:1/ Is 54:5-14/Is 55:1-11/ Bar 3:9-15, 32—4:4/Ez 36:16-17a, 18-28/ Rom 6:3-11/Mk 16:1-7

Easter Sunday

Acts 10:34a, 37-43/Col 3:1-4 or 1 Cor 5:6b-8/ Jn 20:1-9 (42) or Mk 16:1-7

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 37

FAITH FORMATION

LIVING LITURGIC

As a child, you would have heard me moan and groan about this season of penance. Today, it is one of my most treasured seasons of the whole liturgical year.

The secret to my change of heart about this season was having to teach my young children about it.

Children make us see life in the simplest terms. The same happens when teaching them the Catholic Faith. I vividly remember the first time I had to explain the Passion and Death of Christ to my three-year-old. She was terrified. “I’ve traumatized her!”

I thought. BIG PARENT FAIL. After that, my daughter would burst into tears and scream every time she saw a crucifix, which was several times a week. I told myself there had to be a better way to teach my children about Lent, about sacrifice, about the beauty of the Cross. And so, the Holy Spirit gave me the answer in prayer one day as a young mother of three littles. The answer was simple: teach them about the Passion in light of the Resurrection. It made so much sense. I had always separated the two seasons, but when I truly reflected on it, I realized that Lent makes no sense without Easter. Lent without Easter would make anyone moan and groan, and it would result in empty sacrifice without joy or purpose. A new fire was lit inside me. I no longer dreaded the question my children often asked: Why did Jesus have to die? I taught them the simple Truth: Jesus died so He could open the gates of Heaven for us. He didn’t stay in the grave! HE ROSE! I always make sure to make a big deal about Jesus’ Resurrection. I’ll explain to my children that it’s okay to be sad that Jesus died, but we should be happy because He didn’t stay in the grave.

We make Lent meaningful in our family by celebrating it with the knowledge that Easter comes. We marry the two seasons together for our children because separating them doesn’t make sense. To celebrate means to acknowledge a significant event with an enjoyable activity. It takes understanding that the Crucifixion is necessary for the Resurrection to get to a place where we can celebrate Lent instead of dreading it. It is a reverent and penitential season, but it can and should be celebrated with activities. Here are some things we have done in the past or currently do with our children to bring alive the beauty of this season in our home.

CALLY

KAYLA ARCENEAUX LEBLANC

is a Catholic wife and mother from Houma. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Ricky, for 10 years and they share three beautiful children. Her family attends Blessed Sacrament Chapel and Kayla provides music for weekend Masses at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Kayla is a full-time teacher currently working in the Terrebonne Parish School District teaching 5th grade. She loves spending time outside with her family, doing art with her kids, and dancing in the kitchen with her husband. She strives to use her home as a liturgical teaching tool for her family.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 39

PRAYER. FASTING. ALMSGIVING.

The three traditional pillars of Lent are prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. We plan our prayer, fasting, and almsgiving appropriately for the ages of our children as they grow. We have three children now. Addiline is eight years old, Archer is six years old, and Karoline is five years old. With the help of the Holy Spirit and many trails and errors, we now have a purpose to the way we observe Lent.

Because we celebrate Lent in light of the Resurrection, we increase our prayer because we want to be as holy as we can so we can enter the gates Jesus died to open for us. Prayer can look like an array of things with little ones. Coloring, crafting, reading Scripture, and attending Stations of the Cross are a few things we love doing with our children. You can also add prayers to an already established routine or begin a new prayer routine. When our children were very small, this is the first prayer we taught them: “Thank you, Jesus. I love you, Jesus. I trust in you, Jesus.” As they grow, we add prayers such as the Saint Michael Prayer, Hail Holy Queen, and Morning Offering.

The second pillar is fasting. The Church gives guidelines on the requirements for fasting when it comes to adults, but parents can choose what fasting looks like for their children. We have started our children with tiny sacrifices on Fridays. For example, they choose a different snack, not their favorite on that day or drink water instead of juice or a fun, sugary drink.

They can also fast from television or electronics (iPad time or Nintendo time). Fasting must have a purpose. So, when we fast or make a small sacrifice, it is offered up for a specific person.

At night, we share which person we sacrificed for that Friday.

Finally, the third pillar is almsgiving. Many people think of money as a source of almsgiving, but the Church teaches that we can give our time, our talent, or our treasure. So, what can children offer to “give?” Led again by the Holy Spirit, my husband and I decided what our children can give the world is virtue. We focus on growing in virtue all the time, but we choose specific virtues to discuss during Lent. It’s quite simple, pick a virtue for each week and help your children find ways to practice the virtue. This is also a great exercise for adults.

We can’t celebrate Lent without talking about Holy Week. We make sure to take advantage of any and all celebrations offered at our church that week. Does your church offer a Seder Meal, Washing of the Feet, Passion play, or a Good Friday service?

Bring your children and let them see Jesus’ Passion played out before them! Our personal favorite is the Exaltation of the Cross on Good Friday. This beautiful tradition includes taking off our shoes and approaching the crucifix to kiss the feet of Jesus. It is so reverent, humble, and moving to participate in.

Here’s to embracing the gifts and opportunities the Catholic Church offers us during this penitential season so that we can better explore new ways to bring our faith alive!

40 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

“FASTING

MUST HAVE A PURPOSE. DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 41

FAITH FORMATION

EVERYDAY “

FR. PHILLIP KURUVILLA

is a missionary priest for the Dicoese of Houma-Thibodaux. He is originally from Kerala India and currently serves as the Pastor of St. Joseph in Chauvin.

OUR WEAKNESSES CAN BE A PATHWAY TO HOLINESS.

HOLINESS TELL US ABOUT WHERE YOU’RE FROM AND ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. I’m from Kerala, India. My family was big, with eight children – four brothers and four sisters. Sadly, my mother passed away in 1989, followed by my father in 2006. I also lost two brothers along the way. Two of my sisters are in the convent. Growing up, I had a strong Catholic foundation built by my parents who were devout.

HOW DID YOU DISCERN YOUR VOCATION

WHAT ARE YOUR DAYS LIKE? My day starts with prayer – beginning with the Liturgy of the Hours Morning Prayer and Office of Readings. Then I delve into the Mass readings and get ready for daily Mass at 8:30. After a quick breakfast following Mass, I head to the office to work on the day’s tasks. Some days involve funerals, visits to the sick or hospitals, anointing the sick, checking in on the homebound, making other house visits and performing house blessings. Evenings are filled with various meetings, and Tuesdays we have religion class.

Before the day’s end, I spend time in my personal chapel, in front the Blessed Sacrament, saying my prayers—a little spot I recently set up near my room.

TO THE PRIESTHOOD? HOW DID THAT JOURNEY LEAD YOU TO AMERICA? In high school, I found myself drawn to the idea of priestly life. One of my sisters was already in the convent, and her visits during vacations inspired me. Additionally, having relatives who were priests further fueled my admiration for the calling. By the time I completed 10th grade, the idea of becoming a priest had firmly taken root in my mind although I did not know yet which kind of priest I was to be.

After 13 years in seminary, I joined the Indian Missionary Society, based in the northern part of India. I served all over India for 17 years. In 2007, a fellow priest from my order, who was serving at St. Mary’s Nativity in Raceland, had to return and I was asked to take his place and that’s how I ended up here. As a missionary, I had been trained to go wherever needed, adhering to the motto “Bloom where you are planted.” Having worked in various states in India, each with its own language, food, weather, and culture, adapting wasn’t too challenging for me. However, the distance posed a new difficulty initially, but I’ve since grown accustomed to it.

DO YOU FIND SIMILARITIES IN COMMUNITY HERE AND AT HOME? The Cajun culture here surprisingly resembles some aspects of my own culture —family, faith, and a strong sense of community. People are warm and supportive which feels great. When it comes to food, it’s all about the spice, and rice is a staple, just like back home. I love the music and parades—they remind me of the lively celebrations during our church feasts in India with long parades with fantastic music.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 43

WHAT ARE SOME LESSONS LEARNED IN YOUR TIME AS A PRIEST HERE? People here are very honest and straight forward. Those who are religiously driven and deeply devoted really pour their hearts and souls into it—just genuine commitment. It’s inspiring to see their sincerity, and they take their beliefs seriously.

The appreciation I receive for what I do is overwhelming.

Witnessing the unwavering faith of some individuals motivates me to grow even stronger in my own beliefs. Overall, people are incredibly supportive and helpful, making this community feel like home.

THE PATH TO HOLINESS IS FILLED WITH CHALLENGES. HOW DO YOU PERSEVERE AND WHAT ENCOURAGEMENT CAN YOU OFFER OTHERS? Holiness isn’t this distant, unattainable thing. It’s not reserved for the perfect; anyone can achieve it. We just need to shift our perspective to putting our hearts and souls into ordinary tasks, doing them faithfully and honestly. Our weaknesses can be a pathway to holiness. Many saints saw themselves as the worst sinners. Faith plays a crucial role—it’s about recognizing that God sanctifies me if I just try my best. Making prayer a daily habit, attending the Eucharist, reading the Bible, and learning from the lives of the Saints all contribute to our perseverance in holiness. Having good hobbies is also a way to avoid getting caught up in life’s distractions. For me, fishing and traveling help keep my mind refreshed. My work as a missionary priest in India was mostly among Hindus in places where there were no proper roads, electricity, enduring severe weather without any air conditioning or heat and in some places, I had threat to life from other religious communities. None of these things or the language barriers, food differences, being away from home bothered me at all. God carried me on my mission the whole time.

44 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BEING CATHOLIC? I hold a deep reverence for the Eucharist and a special devotion to Mary.

Every time I approach the altar, I find myself praying that the Lord allows me to continue offering this sacrifice every day for as long as He desires. The Eucharist is my spiritual strength, and source of great joy. My connection with Mary dates back to my baptism in my home parish, where I was dedicated to Mary as per tradition, much like Jesus was offered in the temple on the 8th day. I’ve fostered a special devotion to Mary, and it’s a daily practice for me to recite the Rosary. I was fortunate enough to establish a Marian Grotto right here at St. Joseph. When I came here what I enjoyed most was celebrating the Sacraments like marriage, baptisms, etc.

Living mostly among Hindus didn’t afford me as many opportunities to do that in India.

WHAT ASPECTS OF HOME DO YOU MISS MOST? IS THERE A TRADITION YOU TRY TO UPHOLD HERE? What I miss most are my family and the food from back home. Also, in my native region, Holy Eucharist is celebrated in a different rite called SyroMalabar, where the priest and the faithful chant, and there’s a lot of singing involved. To keep some traditions alive, I’ve introduced celebrations here.

For instance, we celebrate Thanksgiving and come together for Onam, sharing a great meal. I’ve also incorporated certain liturgical practices. On Ash Wednesday I personally go with ashes to all the sick and homebound.

On Holy Thursday, there’s a Eucharistic procession with Adoration, creating a Garden of Gethsemane for everyone to experience. On Good Friday, I organize a walking Way of the Cross, where we go outside, with children portraying Jesus and carrying the cross at each station. I also make an Easter fountain during the Easter season, following our tradition from back home.

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO ANYONE CONSIDERING PRIESTHOOD OR PURSUING HOLINESS IN GENERAL? For those thinking about priesthood, remember that it’s God who’s calling.

Be open to doing God’s will, and don’t doubt your worthiness. If you’re willing, God will make you worthy. On the other side, don’t consider yourself as someone important; let God work through you in His way. Just be yourself, don’t pretend, and say yes while trusting God; He’ll guide you. If the vocation is true, embrace the fulfillment that comes with being a priest, free yourself from unnecessary worries, and focus on God and the people you’re meant to serve. Show your happiness in being a priest.

As for anyone pursuing holiness it’s as I’ve already said. Be good to everyone, appreciate what you have, and understand that holiness is a lifelong journey.

It’s a struggle we make with faith in God, avoiding occasions of sin, and concentrating on God, the Bible, prayers, and the lives of the Saints. All of this will help you move closer to holiness.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 45

FAITH FORMATION

GROWING virtue IN VIRTUE

TEMPERANCE The constant message of our secular culture is indulgence. Indulge yourself.

Indulge yourself some more. When you are done, indulge your children, your family, and your friends. If it feels good, you will be happy. The struggle to combat this message in our minds and hearts can be painfully difficult and many days feel impossible. In contrast to the message of indulgence and the Church offers us a largely alternative path to happiness. Mother Church simply knows that our hearts will only be content, and our lives given their true meaning and focus when they are filled with God. As Saint Augustine said, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in you, O Lord.”

The genius of the Catholic Church calls us to sacrifice. As Christ tells the rich young man, “if you wish to be perfect, go sell all you have and give to the poor and you will have treasure in Heaven. Then come, follow me.”

(Mathew 19:21) We often misinterpret this passage to mean that Christ wants us to be homeless and trust Him. And our response might be, “Since I don’t want to live on the streets, I cannot trust Him.” Christ is simply asking the young man to empty himself of what his heart is attached to. In the case of this young man, he is attached to his possessions. He finds his value and his security in his possessions. We need to ask ourselves what gives you value to our lives? How do we avoid wrongly ordered attachments and temper our desires? What drives us to grow in virtue?

The Catechism states that temperance is one of the four Cardinal Virtues and is described as “the moderation of attracted pleasures and the balance in created goods.” It ensures the will’s mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable. We all know indulgence in worldly extremes is a sin and during Lent, we strive to resist these indulgences, a practice that leads many returning to old habits afterward. In focusing on this emptiness, we tend to ignore the sins of deficiency, the opposite of excess.

When we consider temperance, our first thoughts might be—to avoid excess in drinking, eating and other indulgence. Have we considered that our struggle with these desires comes from unmet needs in other aspects of our heart? Not just any need. The thirst we long for is the love of almighty God shared in us and through us.

When we drink too much, what unmet need are we trying to fill? When we spend too much time on our smart phones instead of focusing on the world and people around us, what desire are we attempting to fulfill with our phone that we feel we so desperately need? When we hold grudges against someone, what is driving that source of pride?

When we think of ourselves first, what pains are we holding onto that cause this outlook?

The cure to sloth or laziness is properly ordered action. The cure to cowardice or fear is rightly directed courage. The cure to holding grudges and resentment is intentional forgiveness. The cure to gossip is to speak kindly of that person instead. The cure to narcissistic thoughts is to spend time with and for others in need.

The remedy for extreme sins isn’t self-deprivation but centering on others, filling our emptiness and theirs with Christ-centered love. Focusing on others helps us forget our unmet needs, gradually revealing that what we sought to fill within ourselves is fulfilled by letting go of our selfish desires and letting Christ fill our emptiness and brokenness.

I hope we all begin this Lenten season with the goal of opening wide the closed, dark places in our hearts and filling them with Christ’s thirst for the needs of others. Let us spend silent moments with the Lord instead of reaching for our cell phones. Let us shift our focus from gossip to appreciating the person beside us. Let us swap sweets for moderate exercise. Let us free ourselves by forgiving those who caused pain. Let us opt for learning about Saints or something new over secular entertainment. Let us offer not just prayers but time, talent, and treasure to those in need. When it gets tough, let us remember Christ’s own suffering.

I pray that we all grow in temperance this Lent not by focusing on what we are giving up but by filling our emptiness with rightly ordered God-inspired action. May the Holy Spirit take deep root in our hearts and instill in us the interior peace that will pervade into our families and into the world.

JUSTIN CORTE

is the Chief Financial Officer of CORTEC. He, his wife Elizabeth, and his son Peter live in Houma and are parishoners at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral.

48 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

“

THE REMEDY FOR EXTREME SINS ISN’T SELF-DEPRIVATION BUT CENTERING ON OTHERS, FILLING OUR EMPTINESS AND THEIRS WITH CHRIST-CENTERED LOVE.

LENT ADAM FUSELIER

serves as the Managing Director of a Catholic non-profit organization called Echo Community, whose mission is to spread the Gospel through the lens of the Theology of the Body. He lives in Covington, Louisiana. For more information about the mission of Echo Community, visit echocommunity.us

GOD IN THE SHAKING

TRUSTING GOD AMIDST GREAT LOSS

“

GOD ALLOWS SUFFERING TO SHAKE OUR FOUNDATION TO BUILD US IN THE TRUTH.

It was Holy Thursday of 2022 when I got the heartbreaking news that my godson, Andre´, had passed away. His parents had gone to the hospital that morning expecting the normal delivery of a healthy baby boy, but it didn’t happen. He was gone. I had prayed for my godson daily during their pregnancy, begging God for his health and that his parents would experience the joys of having a son. As I headed to the hospital to be with them, the question of “why” echoed continually in my heart. It didn’t make sense, and it wasn’t fair. That question only deepened as I held him in my arms: “God, you can raise the dead. Please do it,” I prayed repeatedly. The miracle I was hoping for never happened.

This was a Sacred Triduum unlike any I had ever experienced before. It was real, visceral, raw, and painful. My godson’s parents were living on their own Calvary, wrestling with the same questions I had, but at a depth that I couldn’t begin to comprehend. There were no words and no pious platitudes that could explain it all away. We were shaken in a way that forced us to face serious questions. “Is God really who He says He is if he can allow this to happen?”

Through the experience of continuing to grieve the loss of Andre´, I have learned an important truth– God is in the shaking caused by suffering. When faced with difficulties that seem like they are more than we can bear, several pivotal and defining “moments” are created for us. These are opportunities for real, deep, lasting, and transformative grace, but we must choose to engage them. Suffering and pain are realities of living in a fallen world, but we still have the capacity and, yes, the freedom to choose to engage the painful realities of our lives as moments of grace. In these moments, we can trust that God is doing something. The question is– what is He doing?

Often God allows this shaking because we need to be aware of our faulty foundations. We build our lives and identities on people, ideas, and false notions, and at some point, this foundation will collapse along with everything built upon it. God allows suffering to shake our foundation to build us in the truth and to shore up the cracks and crevices left by our sins and the wounds inflicted upon us.

”

Sometimes God allows suffering because we must face the deepest questions in the human heart. If we are honest with ourselves, we will find that we all expend a lot of energy running away from deep thoughts. With a world of distractions constantly at our fingertips, this running has gotten easier but the questions around meaning, purpose, God, and existence haven’t gone anywhere. We try to bury them, but at some point, they must come to the surface so that God can offer Himself as the one true answer.

At other times God wants us to exercise our trust and learn to trust beyond our capacity. This much trust requires that we reject all self-reliance and allow God to provide what we need in every moment and every circumstance.

Suffering invites us to confront the places in our hearts that lack trust, and to throw ourselves in the arms of the God who gives us what we need.

Lastly, I have learned that God often allows suffering to forge intimacy with Him. There is a depth of intimacy between persons that can only be reached when faced with some type of suffering together. I often think of soldiers on the battlefield who endure tremendous suffering and hardship together who have formed an unbreakable bond.

We must remember that we worship a God who has entered human suffering in a profoundly personal way in the person of Jesus Christ, and He entered your particular suffering in such a way that He takes it on Himself. God desires intimacy with us to a depth that we cannot fathom, and suffering is often a means of this intimacy, of forming a bond with us that cannot be easily broken.

We all deeply miss my godson, Andre’, and we wish he were here with us. The pain of his loss hasn’t disappeared in these last two years. However, with patient endurance and with the passing of some time something new has emerged: meaning. Andre is a gift and his short life continues to be a gift, and the painful wrestling in the wake of his passing is giving way to new life.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 51

LENT

SUFFERING WITH

PURPOSE A SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE’S CHALLENGES

“

SUFFERING SUFFERING WILL HUNT YOU DOWN, SNIFF YOU OUT, AND TEACH YOU HOW TO LOVE.

“Those who suffer themselves are far more compassionate to the suffering [of others] than those who have not suffered.

They grow to greater love and run to me all anointed with humility and ablaze in the furnace of my charity.” – Jesus to Saint Catherine of Siena in The Dialogue My therapist is pretty sure I became an EMT when I was 25 to fulfill a somewhat ridiculous notion that I always have to be prepared for every single inevitability in life. She’s probably right; or mostly right. I think that I’ve also always had a desire to fix things, particularly to stop suffering, big or small though it may be. I want everything to be right, and suffering is wrong, therefore, I want it to stop! Sort of noble, sort of neurotic, as are a great deal of things in this life.

But what if I told you, as wrong as suffering is, it is also perhaps the greatest tool we have for growing in holiness?

Suffering is wrong because it is a byproduct of living in a broken, sinful world. We are made for goodness and wholeness, not brokenness and sin. This is why we don’t like suffering; it is contrary to what we were made for. But if God can work all things for good (Rom 8:28), and we are made in His image and likeness and, by our Baptism, showered with His grace, can’t we also share in that transformation?

The answer, as you might’ve guessed, is a resounding yes.

But how?

The first thing we need to do is confront the fact that suffering is a reality that we will live in throughout the course of our lives. The shape, color, and taste of our suffering may change, but it will continue hunting us until the day we die. Again, this is what happens in a world touched so profoundly by sin. Once we know suffering, though, we can be prepared for it. We will no longer avoid it, trivialize it, foist it off on others, or worst of all, simply be swallowed by it. But, if we are to turn suffering on its head, we need to know it intimately; we need to know our own discomfort, what buttons it pushes in our hearts, and what our natural, even sinful, responses might be to it. This is not the menial irritation of wanting a piece of chocolate during a Lenten season when we’ve given it up. We need to know what causes us true suffering, that which causes us real, sometimes enduring, agony, fear, or distress: loss, injustice, betrayal, illness, or injury. And we must face it with courage and humility.

We need to face it because this suffering that’s hounding us has a lesson to teach us, or rather, a lesson which God wants to teach us through it. I once had a professor say something along the lines of: “Suffering will hunt you down, sniff you out, and teach you how to love.” When I know true suffering of whatever degree it’s given to me, only then can I learn compassion. When I’m forced to

interact with someone who has done me an injustice, now, with knowing my suffering, I can look past it and see just how human this other person is, with flaws, surely, but also with goodness and capability for virtue (just like me!). I can remember the terrible pain of food poisoning and have real and true sympathy for my friend experiencing the same. My suffering, in essence, helps me take a step back and realize both the desperate need for companions in suffering and my own smallness in my suffering. If I allow my suffering to inform me, rather than simply being the end-all of my thoughts (“Man, I hate this! It’s all I can think about, how much I hate it!”), I can become a force for good in the world (“I know how that felt for me, and I hurt alongside you. How can I help you or simply be with you in this suffering?”).

And now we are equipped to understand redemptive suffering. This is suffering that I am aware of, that I accept as part of reality, and that I can enter into with eyes open, focused on the Lord Jesus hanging on the Cross. It is suffering that I embrace and offer up for the glorification of God, my sanctification, and the sanctification of others. We don’t have to wax eloquent in our prayers here; sometimes, we won’t have the strength to do more than say, “Jesus, this is so painful; but it is for you. I love you.” I have now turned suffering on its head: for instead of allowing my pain to make me fully focused only on my own situation, I allow it to expand my heart, and ask Jesus to take that new heart and use it for His purposes of salvation. To fill it with Himself, uniting my pain to His, so that I can find those who suffer too, maybe who suffer alone, and bring their Lord to them.

This participation cannot be understated; Saint Paul himself tells us, “I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh, I complete what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of His body, that is, the Church” (Col 1:24). When we unite our suffering to the salvation of the Cross, we participate in that salvation, and that is cause for rejoicing.

We bring salvation to others, and we race more fervently up the path of sainthood, toward the ultimate goal of God himself.

May we all grow to see suffering as the great opportunity that it is and use it for the glorification of God and the sanctification of man. Blessed Lent to you all.

JEN ELY

is a Consecrated Virgin for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

She earned a Master of Arts in Theology at Notre Dame Seminary and serves as the Executive Assistant for the Archdiocese of New Orleans Office of Vocations.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 53

LENT

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE

SACRED TRIDUUM ENTERING INTO THE LITURGY

In the Gospel of John, our Lord Jesus Christ says to His disciples, “Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” These words, spoken at the Last Supper, are not merely instructions for them, but also a foreshadowing of what He came to do. In less than a day, Jesus mounts the Cross, gives His life for us to free us from sin and death, and rises from the dead on the third day so we may have hope for eternal life. We may be familiar with this story of Jesus’ death and resurrection, but may not realize that, as Catholics, this “story” is not another chapter of a history textbook. In the liturgy of the Church (i.e., the Sacraments and sacramentals/blessings/ acts of worship), Jesus presents to us anew under sacramental signs and symbols the living reality of His sacrifice on the Cross and life-giving resurrection. This is made exceptionally explicit every year when we celebrate the Sacred Pascal Triduum.

The Paschal Triduum is the name we give the days we as a Church commemorate the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ (Holy Thursday through Easter Sunday). These days serve as the high point of the entire liturgical year as we enter the mystery of our salvation– Jesus dying on the cross and rising from the tomb. As a young man, I had the privilege to serve the altar at my home church of St. Joseph in Chauvin for the yearly celebrations of the Triduum. To this day, I can still recall the procession of the Holy Eucharist on Holy Thursday night, people coming forward to venerate the crucifix on Good Friday, and the chanting of the Exsultet, or Easter Proclamation, by my long-time pastor, Msgr. Fred Brunet.

Thinking back, these celebrations most impressed on me the gravity of the sacrifice our Lord Jesus offered in His death and the immense joy of knowing He is risen from the tomb.

FR. BRETT LAPEYROUSE

is a priest of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, born and raised in Terrebonne parish. He currently serves as Administrator of Sacred Heart Church in Morgan City.

These themes of gravity and joy are central to the liturgies of the Triduum. The Cross is front and center of the whole of these days, but especially of Holy Thursday night and Good Friday. As we commemorate the Lord’s supper in the evening Mass of Holy Thursday, we are asked to meditate upon the cross. The first words of prayer for this Mass, the Entrance Antiphon, place the cross as the focal point: “We should glory in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is our salvation, life and resurrection, through whom we are saved and delivered.” (Roman Missal, Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper, #6) The Lord’s Supper without reference to the Cross is merely a nice fraternal meal. In this way, the Lord is deepening the Jewish understanding of the Passover, which was both a sacrifice and a meal.

Just as the Passover was not complete unless the sacrificed lamb was eaten, so the Lord’s Supper finds its fulfillment in the sacrifice on the cross of Calvary. In giving Himself, Jesus fulfills the words He said to His disciples the night before, the very words priests pronounce over the sacred host at every Mass: “This is my body, which will be given up for you.”

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 55

The Cross is the grand stage of our salvation, and the depth of this reality becomes even more explicit in the liturgy of Good Friday. This is the day of the Lord’s death on the Cross, the day in which He conquered death by death. It is the only day of the year that Mass is not allowed to be celebrated, following ancient tradition and out of reverence for our Lord’s death.

The central liturgical action of this day is the solemn veneration of the Cross during the Good Friday service.

Here, the people present come forward to give a sign of reverence and devotion to a crucifix held by the priest, usually by means of a kiss. But the motivation of this devotion is expressed in the antiphon the priest sings before this procession: “Behold the wood of the Cross, on which hung the salvation of the world.”

(Roman Missal, Friday of the Passion of the Lord, #15) We honor the holy Cross because it is the place where Christ conquers death, sin, and the Evil One and saves all humanity from original sin. And so, this day is one of solemn reverence because our Lord has died in the flesh, but also of triumph and joy because through that death Christ frees us from unending death.

But Good Friday is not the final day of the Triduum.

Indeed, if all were to end simply in the death of Christ, “your faith is futile, and you are still in your sins.”

(1 Cor. 15:17) Jesus did not just predict He would lay down His life for His friends, but He said, “he will be raised on the third day.” (Matt. 20:19) So from within the grave silence and darkness of Good Friday and Holy Saturday, as we liturgically sit in the tomb with our Lord, comes a new light. At the beginning of the Sacred Paschal Vigil on Holy Saturday night, a candle is prepared and lit from a sacred fire. It is carried into the darkened church and placed before the people.

Then the deacon or the priest blesses the candle using the ancient words of the Easter Proclamation, or the Exsultet, in which are sung the words, “This is the night, when Christ broke the prison-bars of death and rose victorious from the underworld.” (Roman Missal, Sunday of the Resurrection: Easter Vigil, #19) In this sacred night leading into the blessed Easter morning, we celebrate that Christ has not only freed us from sin and death in His own death but has also given us the promise of resurrected and eternal life through His rising from the dead.

In the prayer of the Sacred Triduum, we can experience anew the saving mysteries of our Lord’s death and resurrection. We are also invited to insert ourselves into that saving action of Christ. We too are asked to embrace death to ourselves and our lives of sin in order that we may rise to new life with Christ. Every year the Church invites us in the Sacred Triduum to follow the command of our Lord: “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matt. 16:24) 56 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

“ BEHOLD

THE WOOD OF THE CROSS, ON WHICH HUNG THE SALVATION OF THE WORLD.

”

LENT

For me personally, Lent has always been an important time of my year and a chance for me to truly grow in my Faith.

Throughout my entire year I am constantly trying new ways to encounter the Lord, but sometimes it can be difficult to stick to these new routines. Lent has always been a way to keep myself accountable and to create new habits that lead me closer to the Lord. This past year I gave up two of my main forms of social media, TikTok and Instagram. This gave me so much extra time in my day to spend with my family, be more productive, and most importantly spend more time with the Lord. Those forty days allowed me to let go of these apps and further lean on the Lord.

AMELIE HEBERT, VANDEBILT

Q+A:

Lent DESCRIBE YOUR BEST LENT.

My ideal Lent involves practices such as attending daily mass, frequenting confession, and picking up different ascetic practices, but also paying attention to the small opportunities God presents me to grow in virtue. These opportunities often require daily self-denial which I believe is key to a fruitful Lent.

Denying ourselves may feel like we are missing out or losing something, but Jesus says this is the way for us to truly find life (Matthew 10:39). By saying “no” to ourselves, we are saying “yes” to God, better disposing ourselves to hear His voice. When I practice self-denial for the glory and love of God, Lent becomes more than just a forty-day challenge at the beginning of every year, but rather a time of spiritual expansion leading to the most holy reward. Sharing a life with Christ will come with many challenges, but as we unite them to His Passion, He will bear fruit for us that will last forever. Galatians 2:20 “…it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

CALEB SYLVEST, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 57

My best Lent was when I heard God’s call to leave teaching and to move into something unknown. The transition unfolded as a prayer of questioning, trust and wonder about where God was leading me. Unlike previous ministry changes, this call felt distinct. Exploring counseling initially, I embraced the uncertainty, trusting that God had a plan. When I learned my teaching position had been filled, I remained untroubled, deeply rooted in my trust in God. Soon, a job description for a Campus Ministry position at Nicholls State University arrived, offering a journey down the Bayou. On a beautiful sunny day in August, driving along Bayou Lafourche, I felt the Spirit’s presence. At a specific spot, I sensed this was the answer. I was excited although the specifics remained unclear. Interviewing with Fr. Willie Todd at St. Thomas Aquinas, I was eventually hired. That Lent and the profound awareness of letting go has been a significant reminder of the Cross’s power and trust in the One who “let go” to die for us.

SR. CARMELITA CENTANNI, MSC

Q+A:

DESCRIBE YOUR My most memorable Lent was in 1984 at Our Lady of Mepkin Abbey. On the Long-Term Guest Program, I embraced the monastic life for three months, seeking discernment on which diocese to serve. By the end, they asked me to stay, but the Lord guided me to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. During my Lent, I deepened my relationship with Our Lord, and discovered my gifts and understanding how to use them faithfully, not perfectly. That Lent of 1984 opened me to the Father’s will, leading me to leave the monastery and the Diocese of Alexandria-Shreveport. Welcomed by the people of Houma-Thibodaux, I worked as a mechanic and became a priest in 1987. It’s been a blessing to serve here for more than 35 years.

FR. JOEY PILOLA, MARIA IMMACOLATA

58 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

In 2013, my first and most impactful Lent marked the beginning of my journey to the Catholic faith. My best friend, Rianná Reed, invited me to St. Luke’s one Sunday. Intrigued by the spirituality there, I began attending regularly, even while still going to Moses Baptist Church. As I got involved at St. Luke, singing in the choir and helping with events, I felt a void.

My heart longed for more, especially Communion. While I participated in communion at the Baptist church, the Catholic belief in the True Body and Blood of our Lord intrigued me. I had many conversations with Ms. Christine Streams, Roxanne Reed (whom I call Mother and sponsor), and Father Mitch Semar who played vital roles in my discernment journey.

Reflecting on that Lent, it amazes me how God works; my maternal grandfather was Catholic, my grandmother Baptist, and they later became the last couple married at St. Luke. My mom was baptized Catholic, and my grandfather eventually joined the Baptist Church. Growing up Baptist, my journey ultimately led me back home to Catholicism.

JENE ROBINSON, ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST

Lent BEST LENT. Before Mass on the Feast of the Epiphany, I prayed for the Holy Spirit to guide my words for this piece, and I heard “You are imperfect. Your family is imperfect. But keep the faith.” My husband and I have two teenage boys who are at impressionable ages. My prayer is that we are providing a strong, faith filled foundation for them, but I also worry we aren’t doing enough.

Every year during Lent, we clean out our closets and donate the items to Gym Dandy, our favorite thrift store. My husband and I meal plan during the weekdays; on weekends we get lazy. During Lent, we only go out to eat or have take out once a week. This becomes a sacrifice for our boys because they enjoy our local fried chicken restaurant chains. We donate the money saved to our Church collection. On Fridays during Lent, we try to not substitute meat with seafood. Seafood is not a sacrifice for us. I am a firm believer that little things matter because they become big things. Serving others, practicing self-discipline, and sacrifice are little things that help us “keep the faith.”

ALISHA BERGERON, E.D. WHITE

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 59

CULTURE

AN EXCERPT FROM

‘THE DREAM OF THE ROOD’ AUTHOR UNKNOWN, TRANSLATED BY ROY LIUZZA

It was so long ago––I remember it still–– that I was felled from the forest’s edge, ripped up from my roots. Strong enemies seized me there, made me their spectacle, made me bear their criminals; they bore me on their shoulders and then set me on a hill, enemies enough fixed me fast. Then I saw the Lord of mankind hasten eagerly, when he wanted to ascend upon me.

I did not dare to break or bow down against the Lord’s word, when I saw the ends of the earth tremble. Easily I might have felled all those enemies, and yet I stood fast.

Then the young hero made ready—that was God almighty— strong and resolute; he ascended on the high gallows, brave in the sight of many, when he wanted to ransom mankind.

I trembled when he embraced me, but I dared not bow to the ground, or fall to the earth’s corners––I had to stand fast.

I was reared as a cross: I raised up the mighty King, the Lord of heaven; I dared not lie down.

They drove dark nails through me; the scars are still visible, open wounds of hate; I dared not harm any of them.

They mocked us both together; I was all drenched with blood flowing from that man’s side after he had sent forth his spirit.

Much have I endured on that hill Of hostile fates: I saw the God of hosts Cruelly stretched out. Darkness had covered with its clouds the Ruler’s corpse, That shining radiance. Shadows spread Grey under the clouds; all creation wept, Mourning the King’s fall: Christ on the cross.

And yet from afar men came hastening To that noble one; I watched it all.

I was all beset with sorrow, yet I sank into their hands, Humbly and eagerly. There they took almighty God, Lifted him from his heavy torment; the warriors then left me Standing drenched in blood, all shot through with arrows.

They laid him down, bone-weary, and stood by his body’s head; They watched the Lord of heaven there, who rested a while, Weary from his mighty battle. They began to build a tomb for him In the sight of his slayer; they carved it from bright stone, And set within the Lord of victories. They began to sing a dirge for him Wretched at evening, when they wished to travel hence, Weary from the glorious Lord—he rested there with little company.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 61

CULTURE

NATALIE HAYDEL BARKER

is a self taught artist based out of New Orleans Louisiana. Born and raised in Houma, Louisiana, her art is deeply inspired by her strong Catholic roots. As a mother of three young children, Natalie has a deep love for Mother Mary and the Saints and enjoys painting them most. She best describes her art as an ethereal, abstract take on Catholic imagery. Natalie specializes in acrylic but also loves adding in other mediums for added texture and depth. Natalie’s dream is to open an art gallery in her home town where customers can pop in to talk all things art and Jesus. Check out everything Natalie offers at her website:

colorsbynatalie.art

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DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 63 3/6/23 12:00 PM

Our History CULTURE

ITALIANS AND ST. JOSEPH’S ALTARS ITALIANS COMING TO AMERICA

After Reconstruction following the Civil War, plantation owners had trouble finding labor to care for the crops, especially during harvest time. Louisiana had two major crops after the Civil War: cotton in north Louisiana and sugar cane in south Louisiana.

Recruiters from the plantations went to Europe seeking a workforce for the crops, and the Sicilians answered the call, moving to the New World in large numbers between the late 1890s and late 1920s. The Sicilians brought their undeniable work ethic, Catholic faith, and traditions.

Italians, mainly Sicilians, began trickling into the Houma-Thibodaux area in the late 1880s, lured here by work on the local plantations for sugar cane harvesting. The number of Italians increased in towns across the diocese, starting with Thibodaux (1891), Houma (1892), Raceland, and Chacahoula (1894).

TRADITION AND THE MEANING OF ST. JOSEPH’S ALTARS The St. Joseph Altar tradition is based on a medieval story of famine and drought plaguing Sicily and rendering the ground empty and dead. The people of Sicily prayed to St. Joseph, the patron saint of Sicily. They received the much-needed rain that saved the crops, livestock, and people. The people thanked St. Joseph by placing fruits, vegetables, and fava beans from the crops on a table for St. Joseph. Gradually, this became a yearly tradition, with the wealthy citizens placing buffets on St. Joseph’s altar that would be given to the poor after the feast of St. Joseph passed. March 19th was made St. Joseph’s feast day on Italy’s Father’s Day because of St. Joseph’s fatherly role in Italy.

64 | BAYOU CATHOLIC

MICHELLE LEBLANC

is the Archivist of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s Archives turned 40 on November 11, 2023.

The Archives and Records Center contains the diocese’s historical records and maintains school and church records for the diocese. For questions or further research, please email archives@htdiocese.org

These altar traditions are rich in symbology and reflect the Sicilian and Catholic culture. A St. Joseph Altar is split into three tiers representing the Holy Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Usually, it features a St. Joseph statue on the top tier. The altar can also include prayer cards, baskets for donations, palms, candles, and cloths in green and brown– colors associated with St. Joseph.

The food for St. Joseph’s is particular, with the no meat being offered because of the holiday’s propensity to land during Lent. Bread is shaped into crosses or carpenters’ tools such as saws, hammers, and ladders, which tie back to St. Joseph, the Patron Saint of Carpenters. Olives, oranges, berries, garlic bulbs, figs, fava beans, artichokes, lemons, pastas, and fennel stalks are often included on St. Joseph’s altars.

The altar also features almond cookies, biscotti, and pastries shaped like chalices, staffs, pyramids, and lambs.

One of the breads is used in St. Joseph’s Day Pasta, including the crumbs used as sawdust to dust the pasta since cheese wasn’t used for the first St. Joseph’s celebration.

A table is placed in front of the altar to represent the Holy Family, with some altars even featuring children posing as the “holy family” who “seek” a place to stay three times before being allowed to enter and eat a little of all the different dishes. The altar is then opened for others to view and remove St. Joseph’s bread, holy salt, and fava beans. St. Joseph’s breadcrumbs are believed to calm the winds of a storm or hurricane if thrown into the wind. Another belief is for women to “steal” a lemon from the altar to gain a husband before the next St. Joseph’s Altar. The dry, roasted fava bean is thought to bring good luck to those who take one.

One of the most essential elements of St. Joseph’s altar features giving food and money to the poor from the altar.

Since St. Joseph also represents the impoverished, giving food and money to those less fortunate is the correct way to distribute the food from the altar.

DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX | 65

Another less popular tradition is a pilgrimage where the petitioner visits nine St. Joseph’s altars, making a wish or petition at the ninth that is supposed to reflect the spirit of asking for St. Joseph’s intercession. Some altars feature memorials to those who have passed on or are thanksgiving to St. Joseph for his intercession after a health scare or crisis. The last type of St. Joseph’s Altar, questua, is unusual but features all its materials and donations being “begged for,” representing the humility the Sicilians displayed in begging for help from Joseph.

CELEBRATING ST. JOSEPH’S ALTARS IN OUR DIOCESE No historic St. Joseph’s Altar accounts or descriptions were found in church records before the 1970s. Still, due to the lack of records that describe church parish life in the late 1800s and early 1900s, we have no proof of which churches may have had St. Joseph’s Altars or the popularity of these altars with the French Catholic Cajuns.

While St. Joseph’s began in 1817, its first St. Joseph’s altar was established in 2000. St. Joseph Co-Cathedral used to celebrate every St. Joseph festival day by having a high Mass and a fortyhour exposition of the Eucharist. They invited the Italian community to celebrate the feast of St. Joseph and participate in a small celebration after the High Mass, which unfortunately isn’t specified in the records.

St. Louis, the King of France Church in Bayou Blue had one of the first publicized St. Joseph’s altars after the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux was formed in 1977. St. Louis’ first St. Joseph’s Altar began in 1980 and was a tradition for many years.

Other church parishes and businesses like Cannata’s have featured St. Joseph’s Altars in the past, with last year featuring 13 church parishes and one residence included.

Research Materials for this article were provided by “Bread and Respect: The Italians of Louisiana” by A.V. Margavio and Jerome J. Salomone, “The Catholic Church in Louisiana” by Roger Baudier, yearofstjoseph.org, catholicculture.org, St. Joseph parish, previous Bayou Catholic articles, and parishioners of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral and St. Louis King of France, Bayou Blue.

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