Bayou Catholic Magazine April 2021 by Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Bayou

Catholic

The official magazine of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

“This is the night that with a pillar of fire banished the darkness of sin” APRIL 2021 ~ VOL. 41 NO. 8 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Contents

Features 20 Students of the Year

By Janet Marcel

House of Formation

By Janet Marcel

Annual Bishop’s Appeal

By Janet Marcel

Hispanic Ministry Pastoral Plan

By Janet Marcel

Columns 8 Comfort For My People

By Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

Pope Speaks

Pope Francis I

Questions of Faith

By Father Wilmer Todd

Readings Between the Lines

By Father Glenn LeCompte

46 Overtime

By Ed Daniels

In Every Issue 6 From the Editor 16 Scripture Readings 23 Heavenly Recipes 29 Daily Prayer for Priests,

Deacons and Seminarians

Youth In Action

Guest Columns 18 ‘Fratelli tutti’: Chapter 4

By Father Cody Chatagnier

Year of St. Joseph

By Very Rev. Vicente DeLa Cruz, M.C.L., J.C.L., V.F., V.C.

Symbols of Easter

On Our Cover

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

In this file photo, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre holds a candle lit from the newly prepared Easter candle during the Easter Vigil at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. “This is the night that with a pillar of fire banished the darkness of sin” is sung during The Easter Proclamation (Exsultet).

By Father Michael Bergeron

Announcements 39 Blessing of the Fleet 42 Ministries of Acolyte 44 Food Pantry grant

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 3

THE THE

CATHOLIC HOME MISSIONS APPEAL

The collection will be held April 24 and 25, 2021 Thank you for your generosity.

STRENGTHENING the CHURCH AT HOME Copyright © 2019, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Photos: © Getty Images, courtesy of the Diocese of Las Cruces. 30200200

Lisa Davies

Lisa Cooks an:

EASY SOUP

Bayou Easy Crab and Corn Soup

Catholic

INGREDIENTS:

This month’s heavenly recipe comes from Lisa Davies, dministrative assistant for the diocesan Office of Catholic chools. Lisa shares her recipe of easy crab and corn soup. native of Thibodaux, she now lives in Houma with her usband Jack. The couple, who are parishioners of the athedral parish of St. Francis de Sales, has two children, ake who is 24 and Abigail who is 23. Lisa remembers getting this recipe from a neighbor. “I emember the first time I had this soup was at Mulberry lementary School in Houma when we were celebrating eacher Appreciation Week. The soup was so good that I had o have the recipe.” Lisa enjoys cooking. She says that she recalls cooking as teenager. “I learned to cook from my mother. She as an excellent cook. She instilled the love of ooking and the gathering of family at the upper table. That was an important part of rowing up.” Lisa’s favorite thing to cook is gumbo. he says it’s a crowd pleaser. “Cooking an be a family affair. Cooking was always bout family time when my children were rowing up. Even when the cooking is done, he conversation during a family meal was mportant. Throughout my lifetime the presence a good meal and family were a good recipe.” The administrative assistant has a bachelor’s degree n home economics with a concentration in child, family ocial services. She worked for many years as a food stamp igibility examiner, then as a paraprofessional for nine ears at Mulberry Elementary School where she assisted in re-K classes. She has been married for 30 years and has ved in Mississippi, Indiana and South Carolina. “The people n South Carolina were great. We lived there for nine years.

1/2 stick butter 1 small onion, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped How to reach us: 1 bunch green onion tops BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132 1/2 medium bell pepper, chopped 1 lb. crab meat BY MAIL: P.O. Box 505 Schriever, LA 70395 1 can whole kernel corn, drained 2 cans cream of mushroom soup BY FAX: (985) 850-3232 1 can cream of celery soup BY E-MAIL: 4 cans milk bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org 1 capful of liquid crab boil The Bayou Catholic is published monthly, for 1 pint half and half the people of the Roman Catholic Diocese 1 tsp. parsley flakes of Houma-Thibodaux by the H-T Publishing Salt to taste Co., P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395. Pepper to taste Subscription rate is $35 per year. Cajun seasoning to taste

The Bayou Catholic is a member of the Catholic Press Association, the National Newspaper DIRECTIONS: Association and an associate member of the Louisiana Presscelery, Association. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion, bell

pepper and green onion tops in 1/2 stick butter until Chatagnier softened. Add other ingredients and stirLawrence until smooth. editor and general manager Once the mixture come to a boil, lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes. To thicken, if desired, in a Aprilstir LeBouef small amount of a flour and water paste until blended business manager together. Season to taste. Janet Marcel

staff writer/administrative assistant

Lisa Schobelfor Hebert There were many historical attractions the graphic designer for family to enjoy. There was the opportunity camping and fishing there, also.”Meridy Liner This August will be Lisa’s fifth year working accounts receivable/payable assistant at the Pastoral Center. “I enjoy my time working for the diocese. It is wonderful to begin each day in prayer and with the support of the wonderful staff at the Pastoral Center. I am pleased to continue a family legacy of continued support of Catholic education in the diocese. My father was on the diocesan school board Like us on Facebook or years ago when Sister Immaculata Paisant, M.S.C., was on the web superintendent. I attended St. Genevieve Find andus graduated from E.D. White. My children went to St.www.bayoucatholic.org Bernadette and Vandebilt. The presence of great teachers had a profound Where to find your Catholic impact on my life. I feel as though I am carrying on aBayou family Bayou Catholic tradition of service to the Catholic Church.” BC magazine can be found

at all Catholic churches and Catholic schools

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 23 throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

To pick up a copy, you may also visit the merchants who advertise in our issue. Those wishing to receive the magazine by mail can call Janet Marcel at (985) 850-3132 or write to Bayou Catholic, P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395. Subscription price is $35 annually. For the online edition, go to www.bayoucatholic.com

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 5

From the Editor

Success amid distress

What a difference a year makes! Last year at this time under the directive of Governor John Bel Edwards, the State of Louisiana was under a lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people who were able, worked from home. Schools were closed and virtual learning became a reality. Our churches were closed to worshippers and parish priests began utilizing social media as a way to keep in touch with their parishioners by livestreaming Masses. The diocesan Communications Office went into high gear to find ways to connect with the Catholic faithful across the diocese by filming Masses celebrated by Bishop Shelton J. Fabre and utilizing Facebook and the diocesan website as a means of communication. The Bayou Catholic did not publish a printed magazine last April but relied heavily on Facebook and its website to keep people informed on what was happening in parishes and throughout the diocese in forms of relief efforts for those who could not work and had no income nor the ability to provide food for their families. Throughout the pandemic, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux worked closely with Second Harvesters Food Bank to set up food distribution sites all across the diocese supplying much

needed food items to thousands of families. In mid-June, a task force comprised of Catholic school administrators, medical health professionals, parents, school board members, and diocesan leadership, began working on a “Return to School Plan.” The result of the plan was the opening of all Catholic schools in the diocese in the month of August. This could not have happened without the foresight and planning of all who were involved. This is indeed one of the greatest success stories to come out of the diocesan response to the pandemic. The dedication of the task force, Office of Catholic Schools, Catholic school administrators, teachers and staff, along with the parents and students have made this a remarkable accomplishment. It is an outstanding achievement to this day that no Catholic school in the diocese has had to close since the beginning of this school year because of the pandemic. While we are not out of the woods yet, there is hope that this deadly virus can be controlled. Vaccines are being administered at a record rate. The number of people being infected and dying from the virus is decreasing. However, now is not the time to become lackadaisical when it comes to this deadly virus. Until we have established herd immunity in this country, we should continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control’s guidelines for safety. These guidelines include wearing masks, social distancing and avoiding large gatherings. It is also wise to get vaccinated when it’s your turn. Unlike last year, our churches will be open for Holy Week and Easter celebrations this year. In addition to the churches being open, the Holy Week celebrations

6 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

will be livestreamed for viewing for those who may still not feel comfortable celebrating Mass with a large group of people. We have much to be thankful for in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre and our diocesan leaders’ response to the pandemic helped the Catholic faithful during some of our darkest days. Let us not forgot the lives of the loved ones that we have lost due to COVID-19. For many families this time in history will be remembered as one of pain and sorrow. There are also many left with lingering effects from the virus who find it difficult to function on a daily basis. There is still much we don’t know about how this virus attacks the human body and its after effects. May this Easter season, which for us as Christians is our season of hope and joy, be a source of renewed hope for the world as we continue in our daily struggles. In the very beginning of John’s Gospel, the prologue reads, “The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” Jesus’ resurrection is the victory of light over darkness, the victory of life over death, the victory of mercy over sin. Let us use this Easter season to seek the light to guide us out of the darkness we encounter while we journey through life on earth. Remember, after reading Bayou Catholic, pass it on to a friend or relative who might not be attending Mass. It’s one of the great ways to do your part in spreading the Good News. BC

Lawrence

Lawrence Chatagnier Editor & General Manager

Comment

Seek to experience the Easter season with joy and fervor Comfort For My People Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

Easter Sunday always ushers in a season of joy. The joy of springtime, the joy of spending time with family, and the joy of celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. I think this year brings a particular joy in being able to celebrate this great feast with our parish families. Having to celebrate Easter last year from our homes was certainly a unique experience, and a difficult one for many people. It brings me a special joy this year after having gone through the sacrifice of last year to be able to celebrate Easter with you and to see all of our priests and parish families celebrating the Easter liturgies together. I am struck by this relation between the joy that comes after difficulty. We see this theme so often in the Scriptures. Easter itself is a celebration of life after the trials and sufferings that came with Good Friday. Peter experienced great joy at his triple confession of love for Jesus that restored the pain of his triple denial. There is always a link between suffering and joy, between death and new life. It is by passing through the “valley of the shadow of death,” as the psalm states, that we are able to experience the full joy of the glory of the risen Lord. This is true even in our own lives. For example, we all take up a

particular penance for Lent so that we can experience the great joy of Easter. It’s important to note this connection between Lent and Easter. I once heard it said that we should take the Easter season just as seriously as we took the Lenten season. If we enter into the trials of Lent with great fervor, persevere in our penances with zeal and courage, then it is only right that we enter into the joy of Easter with that same fervor. When we enter into a season of suffering, it actually prepares us to better receive and experience the joy that comes after. Easter affords us the hope that joy always comes after suffering, that death never has the last

word, that Christ is truly triumphant over every evil, every sin, and every darkness. So as we experience the Easter season, seek to experience that joy with fervor!!! God desires us not to be discouraged, sad or despondent, but to be radiant in the joy of the Lord, in the joy of the resurrected life to which we are all called. The simple joys of a beautiful day, a good conversation, or a shared meal with a loved one bring a lightness to our hearts that helps us to experience God in the day to day. But the ultimate joy is found in the

8 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

presence of the Lord with us. Easter reminds us that not even death can separate us from God’s presence with us. As St. Paul memorably writes in his letter to the Romans, “neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:3839). No, these things do not separate us from the love of God, but they can in fact reveal the love of God to us in a particular way. The experience of trials opens our hearts to experience the love of God more deeply because my heart is more ready and desiring to receive him. This past year has given us many trials, to be sure. We have much to grieve over, much to acknowledge as hard and difficult. But as we gather together to celebrate Easter in our churches for the first time in two years, we are reminded that we have much joy that awaits us. We have much that God desires to give to us, to speak to our hearts. The joy of Easter is never overshadowed by darkness. There is no such thing as a darkness that can squelch the light. On the contrary, darkness has to immediately flee when the light enters. Jesus is the true and lasting light that “shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). As we celebrate the joy of Easter as a parish family and a diocese, may God shower his abundant blessings upon you, that in the midst of the trials of life, his light may always shine forth!! Happy Easter!! BC

Comentario

Busca experimentar el tiempo de Pascua con alegría y fervor El Domingo de Pascua siempre marca un inicio de un tiempo de alegría. La alegría del tiempo de la primavera, la alegría de dedicar tiempo con la familia, y la alegría de celebrar la resurrección de Jesús. Pienso que este año trae una alegría particular al poder celebrar esta gran fiesta con nuestras familias parroquiales. Haber celebrado la Pascua desde casa el año pasado fue ciertamente una experiencia única, y difícil para muchas personas. Este año me trae una alegría especial después de haber pasado por el sacrificio del año pasado para poder celebrar la Pascua con ustedes y ver a todos nuestros sacerdotes y familias parroquiales celebrando las liturgias de la Pascua juntos. Estoy impactado con esta relación entre la alegría que viene después de las dificultades. Vemos este tema tan frecuente en las Escrituras. La Pascua en sí misma es una celebración de vida después de las adversidades y sufrimientos que vienen con el Viernes Santo. Pedro experimentó gran alegría en su triple confesión de amor a Jesús que restauró el dolor de su triple negación. Siempre hay una conexión entre el sufrimiento y la alegría, entre la muerte y la vida. Es a través de pasar por “el valle de la sombra de la muerte”, como dice el salmo, que podremos experimentar plenamente la alegría de la gloria del Señor resucitado. Esto es cierto incluso en nuestras propias vidas. Por ejemplo, todos tomamos una penitencia particular para la Cuaresma de tal manera que podamos experimentar la gran alegría de la Pascua. Es importante notar esta conexión entre la Cuaresma y la Pascua. Una vez escuché que deberíamos de tomarnos el tiempo Pascual tan seriamente con lo hacemos con la Cuaresma. Si nos adentramos en el proceso de la Cuaresma con gran fervor, perseveramos en nuestra penitencia con celo y valentía, entonces esto será la manera directa que entraremos en la alegría de la Pascua con el mismo fervor. Cuando entramos en un tiempo de sufrimiento, eso

realmente nos prepara para recibir y experimentar mejor la alegría que llega después. La Pascua nos brinda la esperanza que la alegría siempre llega después del sufrimiento, que la muerte nunca tiene la última palabra, que Cristo verdaderamente triunfó sobre el mal, cada pecado, y cada oscuridad. Al ir experimentando el tiempo Pascual, ¡busquemos experimentar esa alegría con fervor! Dios no nos quiere desalentados, tristes o abatidos, sino que estemos radiantes de la alegría en el Señor, en el gozo de una vida resucitada a lo cual estamos llamados todos. La simple alegría de un hermoso día, una buena conversación o un compartir la comida con un ser querido trae una luz a nuestros corazones que nos ayuda a experimentar a Dios en el día a día. Pero la alegría suprema se encuentra en la presencia del Señor con nosotros. La Pascua nos recuerda que ni la muerte puede separarnos de la presencia de Dios con nosotros. Como san Pablo memorablemente escribe a los Romanos, “ni la muerte ni la vida, ni los ángeles ni principados, ni el presente ni el futuro, ni las fuerzas espirituales ya sean del cielo o de los abismos, ninguna otra criatura, podrán apartarnos del amor de Dios, manifestado en Cristo Jesús nuestro

Señor” (Romanos 8, 38-39). No, estas cosas no pueden separarnos del amor de Dios, pero estas pueden de hecho revelarnos el amor de Dios de una manera peculiar. Las experiencias de las adversidades abren nuestro corazón a experimentar el amor de Dios más profundamente porque mi corazón está más preparado y deseoso de recibirlo. Este año pasado nos ha dado muchas pruebas ciertamente. Tenemos mucho de quá lamentarnos, mucho de reconocer lo duro y difícil que fue. Pero al reunirnos para celebrar la Pascual en nuestras iglesias por primera vez después de dos años, se nos recuerda que tenemos mucha más alegría que nos espera. Tenemos mucho que Dios quiere darnos, hablar a nuestro corazón. La alegría de la Pascua nunca es cubierta por la oscuridad. No hay ninguna cosa que la oscuridad pueda apagar la luz. Por el contrario, la oscuridad tiene que huir inmediatamente cuando la luz entra. Jesús es la verdadera y eterna luz que “brilla en la oscuridad y las tinieblas no han vencido” (Juan 1, 5). Mientras celebramos la alegría Pascual como familia parroquial y como diócesis, que Dios derrame sus abundantes bendiciones sobre ustedes, que, en medio de las adversidades de la vida, ¡su luz siempre pueda brillar! ¡Felices Pascuas de Resurrección! BC

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 9

Binh luan bang loi

Hãy cảm nhận Mùa Phục Sinh với vui mừng và nhiệt thành Chúa Nhật Phục Sinh luôn mở ra một mùa vui mừng. Vui mừng trong mùa xuân, vui mừng sống với gia đình và vui mừng cử hành Lễ Chúa Giêsu sống lại. Tôi cảm nhận năm nay sẽ mang lại sự vui mừng cá biệt là có thể hành Lễ Phục Sinh trong xứ đạo. Cử hành Lễ Phục Sinh năm rồi tại gia chắc chắn là một kinh nghiệm dị biệt, và rất khó nuốt với nhiều người. Phục Sinh năm nay cho tôi niềm vui mừng đặc biệt sau khi đã trải qua hy sinh một năm để có thể cử hành Lễ Phục Sinh với anh chị em và nhìn thấy các linh mục cùng cử hành Lễ Phục Sinh trong các xứ đạo. Tôi cảm nhận tận đáy lòng bởi sự liên hệ giữa sự vui mừng mà nó phát xuất từ sự khó. Chúng ta nhìn thấy điểm đó rất thường trong Thánh Kinh. Phục Sinh tự nó là sự vui mừng trong cuộc sống sau nhiều thử thách và đau khổ mà nó bắt nguồn từ ngày thứ sáu khổ nạn. Thánh Phêrô cảm nhận được vui mừng tận trái tim khi tuyên xưng ba lần là ngài mến Chúa, để chữa lại vết thương chối Chúa ba lần. Giữa đau khổ và vui mừng đều có sự liên hệ, giữa sự chết và sự sống. Để trải qua “Thung lũng của sự chết,” như thánh vịnh đã nói, chúng ta mới có thể cảm nhận trọn vẹn được khải hoàn của Chúa Phục Sinh. Điều đó rất đúng với cuộc sống mỗi người. Ví dụ, chúng ta chọn việc hãm mình nào đó trong Mùa Chay để rồi chúng ta có thể cảm nhận được sự vui mừng Phục Sinh tuyệt đối. Cũng nên nhắc lại đây là sự liên hệ giữa Mùa Chay và Mùa Phục Sinh. Đã có lần tôi nghe được là chúng ta cần coi trọng Mùa Phục Sinh như Mùa Chay. Nếu chúng ta bước vào thử thách của Mùa Chay với tâm hồn nhiệt thành, kiên tâm hãm mình với quyết tâm và can đảm, thì điều đó mới đúng khi chúng ta bước vào vui mừng Phục Sinh với cùng nhiệt huyết. Khi chúng ta bước vào mùa đau thương, nó thật tình giúp ta chuẩn bị lãnh nhận và cảm nhận tốt hơn sự vui mừng sẽ tới sau đó. Phục Sinh cho chúng ta hy vọng rằng vui mừng sẽ đến sau khi đau khổ, rằng

sự chết không có tiếng nói sau cùng, vì Chúa Kytô thật sự khải hoàn trên mọi tà ác, tội lỗi và tối tăm. Vì thế khi chúng ta cảm nhận mùa Phục Sinh, hãy tìm nó bằng niềm hoan hỷ nhiệt thành!!! Thiên Chúa muốn chúng ta không mất đi hy vọng, buồn rầu hay tuyệt vọng, nhưng được tỏa sáng vui mừng trong Chúa, trong niềm hân hoan của phục sinh mà chúng ta được kêu gọi. Niềm vui nho nhỏ trong một ngày đẹp trời, một giao tiếp hữu ích, hay một bữa ăn với người thân mang đến tâm hồn nhẹ nhàng giúp chúng ta cảm thấy Chúa mỗi ngày. Nhưng vui mừng trọn vẹn chỉ tìm được với sự hiện diện của Ngài. Phục Sinh nhắc nhở chúng ta rằng kể cả sự chết không thể ngăn cách sự hiện diện của Ngài với chúng ta. Như Thánh Phaolô đã nói trong thư gửi Giáo Đoàn Rôma, “Sự chết, sự sống, bề cao, bề sâu hay một vật thể nào trong vũ trụ, có thể chia rẽ chúng ta khỏi tình yêu của Chúa (Roma 8:38-39). Không, những thứ đó không ngăn cách tình yêu của Chúa dành cho chúng ta, nhưng chúng lại làm sáng tỏ tình yêu Ngài dành cho chúng ta một cách cá biệt. Kinh nghiệm với nhiều thử

10 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

thách mở rộng tâm hồn chúng ta cảm nhận tình yêu Thiên Chúa sâu đậm hơn bởi vì hồn tôi mở rộn hơn và mong muốn đón nhận Ngài hơn. Năm vừa qua đã mang đến cho chúng ta nhiều thử thách, chắc chắn rồi. Chúng ta cảm thấy trói lòng, cảm nhận được khó nuốt và trăn trở. Tuy nhiên, chúng ta cùng nhau cử hành Lễ Phục Sinh trong các xứ đạo lần đầu tiên trong hai năm trời, hãy cảm nhận rằng vui mừng đang đợi chúng ta. Chúng ta mong mỏi nhiều rằng Chúa mong muốn ban ơn cho chúng ta, nói với chúng ta tận con tim. Bóng tối không thể che đi hân hoan Phục Sinh. Không có chuyện như là bóng tối che đi ánh sáng. Ngược lại, bóng tối sẽ biến mất ngay khi ánh sáng xuất hiện. Chúa Giêsu là ánh sáng thật và vĩnh cửu, sẽ “tỏa sáng trong bóng tối, và bóng tối không thể thắng được” (Gioan 1:5). Khi chúng ta cử hành vui mừng Phục Sinh trong cộng đồng giáo xứ và giáo phận, xin Chúa chan hòa hồng ân Ngài trên chúng ta, để khi bị ngụp lặn trong thử thách, ánh sáng Ngài luôn tỏa sáng!! Mừng Chúa Phục Sinh!! BC

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Comment

Pope Francis: Support working mothers amid the coronavirus pandemic The Pope Speaks

By COURTNEY MARES Vatican City, (CNA) Pope Francis has called for more support for working mothers during and after the coronavirus pandemic, saying that women are needed in the renewal of society and the economy. “Women urgently need help with childcare, and should not be discriminated against in terms of pay and advancement, or with the loss of their work as women,” the pope said in a book-length interview which was published last month. “Rather, their presence is increasingly precious at the center of the processes of social, political, occupational and institutional renewal.” The pope pointed to the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s role in the “rebirth of humanity,” and said that women should be given the space to help bring about a better future. Pope Francis suggested that women – if given more support – could make a “decisive contribution to the reconstruction of the economy and of the society to come because women make the world beautiful and make contexts more inclusive.” “As we are all trying to rebuild, we cannot overlook the fact that the rebirth of humanity began with a woman. Salvation was born from the Virgin Mary, which is why there is no salvation without a woman,” he said. The pope also underlined the vital importance for children of spending time with and learning from their parents.

“Playing with his father and mother, the child learns to be together with people, learns the existence of rules and the need to respect them, and acquires that self-confidence that will help him in the moment of launching himself into the external reality, into the world,” Francis said. The pope said that children helped their parents to “remain humble” and understand what matters most in life. “For (kids), they are first of all mom and dad. The rest comes later: Work, travel, successes and worries. And this protects against the temptations of narcissism and the excessive ego, which one risks falling into every day,” he said. Pope Francis’ comments appear in an Italian book written in questionand-answer format with Italian writer Domenico Agasso Jr. The book, called “Dio e il Mondo che Verrà,” which means “God and the World to Come,” was published in Italian by Edizioni Piemme-LEV on March 16. Vatican News published

12 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

an excerpt from the book two days ahead of its publication. Agasso has co-authored several books with Andrea Tornielli, editorial director of the Dicastery for Communications in the Vatican, as well as with his father, Domenico Agasso. In the book, the pope answered questions on societal issues exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, such as economic inequality and social injustice. In particular, he decried the “vicious cycle” of armed violence, poverty and exploitation, calling for international agreement on a political course of action. “Fraternally united, human beings are able to face common threats, without any more counterproductive mutual recriminations, the exploitation of problems, short-sighted nationalism, propaganda of closure, isolationism and other forms of political selfishness,” he said. BC

Comment

Questions of Faith Father Wilmer Todd

Losing faith in God? My younger teenage brother has told me he doesn’t believe in God anymore. I know he hasn’t told our parents, and he’s still going to Mass and Communion with us. What should I do? The simplest and most honest answer is to continue to love your brother and to try to understand what is happening to him in his life. Most of us received the faith from our parents and from our religious education classes. At some point, we have to take responsibility for our own personal faith, and to state our own belief in God and the divine plan for humanity. To come to this acceptance, we have to ask ourselves a lot of questions: Does God really exist? Did the world come into existence in six days or over millions of years? Are the stories in the Bible true? Did humans evolve over time or were we created instantly in a garden? If God exists, why do so many innocent people have to suffer? These are just some questions that we have to come to grips with today. Questioning and doubting are not bad. The church has always proclaimed John’s Gospel of “doubting Thomas” on the Sunday after Easter. When we read the Gospels, it was not only Thomas who had some reservations about the risen Christ. In practically every account of Jesus’ resurrection appearances, the disciples were amazed, terrified or thought they were seeing a ghost. They did not understand that Jesus would

rise again with an entirely new body. The apostle Thomas may be the patron saint of doubters, but the Gospel story does not condemn him for his doubt. Rather, it uses his need for proof to make a point about faith. Jesus says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” Those who have followed Christ in faith through the ages without the benefit of “seeing” him are blessed. When we look at Thomas’ life-story, we see that despite his momentary doubts he follows through and becomes a model apostle. He did not run out of the room when Jesus came back. He stayed with his community of believers. He stumbled, but he got up again. Later, he went off to preach the Gospel as Jesus commissioned him to do. He became a martyr, and was beheaded by the king in India where he had brought the faith to others. Doubting Thomas became St. Thomas. Everyone has doubts whether we want them or not. Endless doubt can harm our faith, but healthy doubt can lead to an even deeper faith. Look at Thomas. Although he doubted, Thomas stayed with the others. Instead of trying to banish our doubts, we should learn from them, and let them strengthen our faith. Doubt may be a wound, but it is a wound that can be healed. Like Thomas, your brother is staying with the community of faith by attending Mass and receiving Communion. That’s a good thing. In

the Eucharist he is encountering the risen Lord. Ask Jesus to speak to him in a special way. Pray for his healing and renewed strength. If he talks to you about a particular problem dealing with his reluctance to believe in God, lead him to explanations of how and why the Bible was written. It’s a religious book and not a scientific explanation of reality. Evolution and the Bible can go hand and hand. Many great saints throughout history have experienced dark nights of the soul. Even St. Teresa of Calcutta revealed her doubts. Where do we fit in? Is it possible for a believer to doubt? The fact that you are reading this article suggests that at some level you believe, but at the same time, you might question some of our beliefs. Perhaps the prayer of the father who brought his possessed son to Jesus would be an honest and fitting prayer for us all. The father said to Jesus, “I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). BC

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

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 13

Reflections

We are part of the story of Acts Readings Between the Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

At Masses throughout the Easter season the first reading comes from Acts of the Apostles. I thought it would be fitting, then, for this month’s article to focus on that book. The author of Acts does not identify himself, but several factors point to Luke, the author of the third Gospel, as the author of Acts. Both works have a prologue addressed to a certain “Theophilus” (Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:15), and in Acts 1:1 the author refers to “the first book,” meaning that Acts is connected to another work. The vocabulary, writing style and theological themes in both works are very similar. Luke views God’s plan of salvation, or “salvation history,” in three phases: 1) the period of Israel, 2) the period of Jesus, 3) the period of the church. Acts is the story of the beginning of the third phase. In the first scene of Acts (1:6-12) the risen Lord addresses his apostles for the last time before he ascends to the Father, and directs them to undertake a mission as “witnesses” to him, meaning that they will testify to all that Jesus said and did, and explain how he brought God’s plan of salvation to fruition. The key verse in understanding the Acts of the Apostles is 1:8, when the risen Lord says to the Eleven (the Twelve minus Judas who is dead), “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Three of Luke’s key themes are contained in this one sentence. First, the very same Holy Spirit who empowered and guided Jesus’ ministry

in Luke (see 4:16-21) does the same for the apostles, who are instructed by the risen Lord to await the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4). Secondly, they are to await the Spirit’s coming in Jerusalem, the city where Jesus suffered, died and rose obtaining forgiveness of sin for all people. Finally, from this central geographical hub of salvation history, the apostles will proceed to bring the good news to the “ends of the earth.” As the story unfolds the apostles are not initially aware that they are to preach beyond the confines of Jerusalem. In the scene of the descent of the Holy Spirit and Peter’s Pentecost speech (2:1-41) it is clear from the makeup of the crowd, people from many nations for whom Peter’s speech is relevant, that the message is not just for Jews but for all people. Nevertheless, it is not until 8:4 that the mission spreads outside of Judea and into Samaria. Why does this happen? Persecution is the reason. Although the apostles return to their ministry in Jerusalem after the Jewish Religious Leaders persecute them (4:1-22), it is in the aftermath of the martyrdom of Stephen (7:59-60) that persecution becomes so severe that Christian missionaries are driven north into Samaria. Stephen was one of the seven servants appointed to wait on Greekspeaking widows (6:1-7), but who also preach (7:2-53; 8:5-8). Saul, a Pharisee,

14 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

is a great instigator of the persecution of Christians (8:1). At this point it may seem to the reader that the mission is endangered. In fact, the treachery the church faces plays right into God’s plan for the Gospel to spread, just as the Jewish religious leaders’ arranging of Jesus’ death also facilitated the divine purpose. The mission to Samaria spreads into Syria, and Saul obtains authorization to seek out followers of Jesus in Damascus (9:1-2). On the way there, he is confronted by the risen Lord (9:3-9), is taken to Antioch in Syria and begins a process of conversion (9:10-19). His name changes to Paul (13:9). Word gets back to the church in Jerusalem that Gentiles are accepting the faith (11:1). Peter is confronted by other Jews for entering the homes of uncircumcised Gentiles to bring them the good news. But he explains a vision (a biblical medium of divine revelation) which indicated to him that this was God’s desire (11:5-10). The persecution drives the mission even farther out, into Phoenicia, Cyprus and Syrian Antioch (11:19), and in each of these places those scattered there announce the good news to Gentiles and they accept it. Eventually word gets back to Jerusalem that Gentiles are accepting the Gospel and even preaching it, so the Jerusalem church sends Barnabas to

Reflections

Antioch to check out the situation (11:19-22). Barnabas goes to Paul’s hometown, Tarsus, finds him there and brings him back to Antioch. They spend a year evangelizing in that area and make a sizeable number of converts (11:23-26). After more debates over admittance of Gentiles to the Christian Way, the church in Jerusalem decides that the only food laws Gentiles are required to observe are abstention from meats offered in sacrifice to idols, from blood, and in addition are to avoid “unlawful marriage” (15:29). James, the leader of the Jerusalem church, announces that this decision is not only authorized by the church leadership, but by them under the guidance of the Holy Spirit (15:28). The decision about requirements for Gentiles entering the church happens after Paul and Barnabas embarked upon a missionary journey into Cyprus and Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey, 13:4-14:28). After the meeting about

F S

Gentiles by church leaders in Acts 15, the rest of Acts focuses on the missionary journeys of Paul, who goes through several incarcerations and a number of experiences of persecution. As was the case earlier in Acts, the persecutions simply drive Paul to other towns and countries and enable the word of God to continue its spread, especially to Gentiles, to the ends of the earth. Paul is arrested by Jews and taken by them before Roman prefects to be tried, but Paul, being a Roman citizen, makes use of his right of appeal, especially to the emperor (25:11). It is this appeal to the emperor that causes him to end up in Rome under house arrest, and Acts ends with Paul residing there and evangelizing. Acts never mentions his martyrdom, which occurred probably in 64 A.D. From Rome, the Gospel did spread to the ends of the earth, as is evidenced by the fact that we have embraced Christianity. Many biblical

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commentators have noted that Acts does not seem to have an adequate story-ending. Maybe the reason is that the story continued with the early church’s evangelization work and continues today as we do our part to spread the good news. BC

Reflection Questions v How has difficulty caused you at times to change the way you serve the Lord? v The early church had to discern, under guidance by the Holy Spirit, how to deal with Gentiles who wished to embrace the faith. What issues today require the church’s Spiritguided discernment? v How do you see yourself fitting into the ongoing story of Acts of the 205Apostles? Venture Boulevard

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April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 15

April Scripture Readings and a listing of Feast days and saints

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Good Friday Isaiah 52:13— 53:12 Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9 John 18:1—19:42

Holy Saturday Genesis 1:1—2:2, 26-31a; 22:1-18 Exodus 14:15—15:1 Isaiah 54:5-14; 55:1-11 Baruch 3:9-15, 32—4:4 Ezekiel 36:16-17a, 18-28 Romans 6:3-11 Mark 16:1-7

Holy Thursday Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 John 13:1-15

4 Solemnity of Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord Acts 10:34a, 37-43 Colossians 3:1-4 John 20:1-9

11 Divine Mercy Sunday Acts 4:32-35 1 John 5:1-6 John 20:19-31

18 Third Sunday of Easter Acts 3:13-15, 17-19 1 John 2:1-5a Luke 24:35-48

25 Fourth Sunday of Easter Acts 4:8-12 1 John 3:1-2 John 10:11-18

5 Monday within the Octave of Easter Acts 2:14, 22-33 Matthew 28:8-15

12 Easter Weekday Acts 4:23-31 John 3:1-8

19 Easter Weekday Acts 6:8-15 John 6:22-29

26 Easter Weekday Acts 11:1-18 John 10:1-10

Tuesday within the Octave of Easter Acts 2:36-41 John 20:11-18

Wednesday within the Octave of Easter Acts 3:1-10 Luke 24:13-35

Thursday within the Octave of Easter Acts 3:11-26 Luke 24:35-48

Easter Weekday Acts 4:32-37 John 3:7b-15

20 Easter Weekday Acts 7:51—8:1a John 6:30-35

27 Easter Weekday Acts 11:19-26 John 10:22-30

16 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

Easter Weekday Acts 5:17-26 John 3:16-21

21 Easter Weekday Acts 8:1b-8 John 6:35-40

Easter Weekday Acts 5:27-33 John 3:31-36

22 Easter Weekday Acts 8:26-40 John 6:44-51

Friday within the Octave of Easter Acts 4:1-12 John 21:1-14

16 Easter Weekday Acts 5:34-42 John 6:1-15

23 Easter Weekday Acts 9:1-20 John 6:52-59

Easter Weekday Easter Weekday Memorial of Saint Acts 12:24—13:5a Catherine of Siena, Acts 13:26-33 virgin and doctor of John 14:1-6 John 12:44-50 the church Acts 13:13-25 John 13:16-20

Saturday

Saturday within the Octave of Easter Acts 4:13-21 Mark 16:9-15

17 Easter Weekday Acts 6:1-7 John 6:16-21

24 Easter Weekday Acts 9:31-42 John 6:60-69

April

Holy Father’s prayer intentions

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808 Barrow St. • Houma, LA 70360 985-879-2403 April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 17

Special

‘Fratelli tutti’

Pope Francis issues social encyclical calling people to care for one another as brothers and sisters

Guest Columnist Father Cody Chatagnier

I think I was around 20 years old, halfway through my time at Nicholls State University, when I went to visit my grandmother at her home off of Bayou Side Drive in T-Calliou one day. During that visit, she called me over to her chair. She had a framed piece of art in her hands. The artwork depicted men, women and children under some oak trees. Later, I would learn the artist’s name was Robert Dafford who painted The Arrival of the Acadians in Louisiana. She asked me, “Cody, do you know who these people are?” I said, “No grandma, I don’t.” She said, “These people represent the first Cajuns to set foot in Louisiana,” she continued, “and you see that lady right there … that’s the first Bourg to come here” (Bourg was my grandmother’s maiden name). She then told me about the French and Indian War and the expulsion of the Acadians by the British Empire because they would not convert to Anglicanism and recognize the king of England as head of the church. She told me how they were Catholic no matter what. She told me of the

concentration camps, the forced migration, the stealing of property, the burning of homes, and all kinds of other dark facts about our ancestors before they arrived on the shores of Louisiana. For a woman with only a fourth grade education, I’d say she was an expert in Cajun history. Back in January 2020, a national sports commentator used a derogatory term to describe the head football coach of the LSU Tigers. I will not repeat that term but the commentator was trying to emphasize that someone who was thought of as not very smart; someone who was thought not to be very eloquent; someone who was thought to not have the skills to lead a football team to the national championship, was able to do it. He was referring to our beloved “Bebe,” Coach Ed Orgeron. He was also referring to Ed Orgeron‘s Cajun heritage, a heritage that many American’s see as uneducated and backwards. My brothers and sisters, I tell you those stories to frame the fourth chapter of Pope Francis’ encyclical, Fratelli tutti. In this section, Pope Francis writes about immigration. Now I know immigration is a very hot topic in the politics of the day. It is important to begin a summary of this chapter by acknowledging that the pope is not advocating that everyone has a right to go where they please or that nations should not have borders. At the beginning of Chapter 4, the pope writes, “Ideally, unnecessary migration ought to be avoided; this entails creating in countries of origin the conditions needed for a dignified life and integral development” (129).

18 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

However, regardless of politics, the pope is trying to remind us that we have an obligation to care for our brothers and sisters: “We are obliged to respect the right of all individuals to find a place that meets their basic needs and those of their families, and where they can find personal fulfillment” (129). Thus, the pope is calling us to live within the two principles of national borders and to care for those who must flee countries that cannot meet their basic needs. Although Louisiana is made up of many different cultures and peoples, South Louisiana is known as “Cajun Country.” For those of us that have French/Acadian ancestry, I hope we remember how our ancestors arrived in Louisiana and that our ancestors were also migrants. When I read the pope’s words, I can’t help but imagine my ancestor’s being expelled from their homes. I can’t help but imagine my ancestors being forced onto ships because of their religion. I imagine them at sea longing for a new place to call home. I think about what Louisiana would be like without the cultural impact of those refugees from Acadia. I think that is what Pope Francis wants us to consider in his writings about immigration. The pope wants us to remember that migrant is a term for a person. Migrant is a term for a beloved son or daughter of God. Migrant is a term for a brother or sister. Pope Francis wants us to also remember the fruitfulness that occurs when cultures influence each other, the beautiful dialogue toward the truth among people with different ideas

Special

Chapter Four Father Cody Chatagnier with Robert Dafford’s The Arrival of the Acadians in Louisiana and viewpoints. I am currently the pastor of St. Ann in Bourg. A few months ago, I celebrated the baptism of a little girl. The family of the little girl didn’t speak much English. They were a family from another country in Central America. I felt very awkward during the baptism because I speak very little Spanish and there was certainly a disconnect during the celebration of the sacrament. As we began the rite of baptism, I noticed the little girl standing in front of a man and a woman. There was another woman standing beside them. Not being able to communicate well, I just assumed that the man and woman standing behind the little girl were her parents and the woman standing beside them was the godmother. I felt very awkward when I handed the woman standing beside them the baptismal cloth and candle and someone told me she was actually the girl’s mother. While telling this story later, I was

informed by another couple that in the cultures of Central and South America the role of the godparents is very important. It is the godparents who bring the child to be baptized. It is the godparents who escort the child to receive our Lord at their first Communion. It is the godparents who stand with the child when they receive confirmation. When their godchild gets married, it is the godparents who place a veil known as the Lazo on the couple signifying that their duty as godparents is complete and now the spouses must support each other in living saintly lives. I thought this was such a beautiful sign of the great importance of the godparents that I now tell that story every time I baptize children. In Chapter 4, Pope Francis says, “For the communities and societies to which they come, migrants bring an opportunity for enrichment and the integral human development of all” (133).

Although South Louisiana may be known as “Cajun Country,” it is inaccurate to assume that only Cajuns live here. There are people of different cultures, and the culture of South Louisiana has been and will continue to be enriched by those different people coming together to create culture. Culture is not a stagnant entity. It lives and is nourished by those who contribute to it. Although it is a beautiful exercise for one to know their ancestry and the culture that comes from that ancestry, we must acknowledge that even within everyone’s ancestry there has been a development of culture. I hope we never forget where we came from, but I also hope we never stop nourishing our culture with new ideas. (Father Cody Chatagnier is currently serving as pastor of St. Ann Church parish in Bourg.) BC

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April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 19

Special

Outstanding Students

Olivia Hatch

Paxton Lichenstein

Lia Jane Martin

Eloise Block

Mary Frances Cali

Bennett DiSalvo

Chloe Douglas

George N. Hurley IV

Sylvie Marceaux

Keegan Mason

Addison Poiencot

20 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

Special

of the Year 2021

Anna Katherine Richardel

Isabella Theriot

Bailey Thomassie

Erin Toups

William Tycer

Daniella Villarreal

Abby Wright

Adele Zeringue

Story by Janet Marcel Outstanding fifth, eighth and 12th grade non-public school students from within the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux were recently chosen to represent their schools as 2021 Students of the Year. The Louisiana Department of Education and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education sponsor the annual Students of the Year Awards program, which is open to every Louisiana public and approved nonpublic school with students enrolled in the grade levels that correspond to the award categories. The Students of the Year Awards program recognizes outstanding elementary, middle/junior high and high school students who have demonstrated excellence in all of the following areas: leadership, citizenship, academic and/or career and technical achievement, and service to school and community. All 11 Catholic schools in the diocese and Houma

Christian School participated in this year’s awards program, which resulted in 19 students from the three grade levels competing at the district level. Three candidates from schools within the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux were selected to represent Region VI – Nonpublic Schools – in the regional competition: Fifth grader, Paxton Lichenstein, son of Nicholas and Courtney Lichenstein, St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School, Thibodaux; eighth grader, Olivia Hatch, daughter of Keith and Crystal Hatch, Vandebilt Catholic High School, Houma; and 12th grader, Lia Jane Martin, daughter of Beau and Jennifer Martin, Vandebilt Catholic High School. The regional interviewing committee is made up of individuals from across the state. Winners at the regional level go on to participate in the state competition. In addition to the candidates selected to represent the region, students selected to represent their school in district competition are as follows.

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 21

Special

Fifth Graders Eloise Block, daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth Block, St. Genevieve Catholic School, Thibodaux; Chloe Douglas, daughter of Travis and Claire Douglas, Holy Savior Catholic School, Lockport; George N. Hurley IV, son of George III and Tina Hurley, St. Mary’s Nativity School, Raceland; Sylvie Marceaux, daughter of Brian and Stephanie Marceaux, St. Bernadette Catholic School, Houma; Addison Poiencot, daughter of Rusty Poiencot and Candice Poiencot, St. Gregory Catholic School, Houma; Isabella Theriot, daughter of Clifford and Alison Theriot, Houma Christian School, Houma; Bailey Thomassie, daughter of Garret and Michelle Thomassie, Holy Rosary Catholic School, Larose; William Tycer, son of Matthew and Karen Tycer, Central Catholic School, Morgan City; Daniella Villarreal, daughter of Hector and Janette Villarreal, St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School, Houma. Eighth Graders Keegan Mason, son of Steve and Jo’le Mason, Central Catholic School; Anna Katherine Richardel, daughter of Daniel and Jennifer Richardel, St. Mary’s Nativity School; Abby Wright, daughter of Mark and Stephanie Wright, Houma Christian School; Adele Zeringue, daughter of Guy and Myra Zeringue, E.D. White Catholic High School, Thibodaux.

12th Graders Mary Frances Cali, daughter of Frank and Catherine Cali, Central Catholic School; Bennett DiSalvo, son of David and Jessica DiSalvo, Houma Christian School; Erin Toups, daughter of Stephen and Kerry Toups, E.D. White Catholic High School. A district selection committee reviewed each of the candidate’s application portfolios and interviewed them virtually on an individual basis, before choosing the district winners. At a minimum, candidates must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 on a four-point scale. Winners on the district level were evaluated on the basis of their application portfolio which includes an autobiographical sketch, academic and attendance records, evidence of the student’s leadership ability, participation in activities, honors, awards, citizenship and service involvement; and the manner in which they present themselves during the interview, which is structured around questions and topics appropriate to the academic level of the student. Assisting with judging at the district level were Gerrie Byrne, diocesan curriculum specialist; Monica Percle, retired school teacher; and Marga Toloudis, retired school teacher. BC

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banksynergy.com 985.851.2217 22 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

Heavenly Recipes

Lisa Davies

Lisa Cooks an:

EASY SOUP Story and Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

This month’s heavenly recipe comes from Lisa Davies, administrative assistant for the diocesan Office of Catholic Schools. Lisa shares her recipe of easy crab and corn soup. A native of Thibodaux, she now lives in Houma with her husband Jack. The couple, who are parishioners of the Cathedral parish of St. Francis de Sales, has two children, Jake who is 24 and Abigail who is 23. Lisa remembers getting this recipe from a neighbor. “I remember the first time I had this soup was at Mulberry Elementary School in Houma when we were celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week. The soup was so good that I had to have the recipe.” Lisa enjoys cooking. She says that she recalls cooking as a teenager. “I learned to cook from my mother. She was an excellent cook. She instilled the love of cooking and the gathering of family at the supper table. That was an important part of growing up.” Lisa’s favorite thing to cook is gumbo. She says it’s a crowd pleaser. “Cooking can be a family affair. Cooking was always about family time when my children were growing up. Even when the cooking is done, the conversation during a family meal was important. Throughout my lifetime the presence of a good meal and family were a good recipe.” The administrative assistant has a bachelor’s degree in home economics with a concentration in child, family social services. She worked for many years as a food stamp eligibility examiner, then as a paraprofessional for nine years at Mulberry Elementary School where she assisted in Pre-K classes. She has been married for 30 years and has lived in Mississippi, Indiana and South Carolina. “The people in South Carolina were great. We lived there for nine years.

Easy Crab and Corn Soup INGREDIENTS: 1/2 stick butter 1 small onion, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 1 bunch green onion tops 1/2 medium bell pepper, chopped 1 lb. crab meat 1 can whole kernel corn, drained 2 cans cream of mushroom soup 1 can cream of celery soup 4 cans milk 1 capful of liquid crab boil 1 pint half and half 1 tsp. parsley flakes Salt to taste Pepper to taste Cajun seasoning to taste

DIRECTIONS:

In a large pot, sauté chopped onion, celery, bell pepper and green onion tops in 1/2 stick butter until softened. Add other ingredients and stir until smooth. Once the mixture come to a boil, lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes. To thicken, if desired, stir in a small amount of a flour and water paste until blended together. Season to taste.

There were many historical attractions for the family to enjoy. There was the opportunity for camping and fishing there, also.” This August will be Lisa’s fifth year working at the Pastoral Center. “I enjoy my time working for the diocese. It is wonderful to begin each day in prayer and with the support of the wonderful staff at the Pastoral Center. I am pleased to continue a family legacy of continued support of Catholic education in the diocese. My father was on the diocesan school board years ago when Sister Immaculata Paisant, M.S.C., was superintendent. I attended St. Genevieve and graduated from E.D. White. My children went to St. Bernadette and Vandebilt. The presence of great teachers had a profound impact on my life. I feel as though I am carrying on a family tradition of service to the Catholic Church.” BC April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 23

Special

Present for the Formation House ribbon cutting from left are diocesan officials Jon Toups, chief operating and financial officer; Father Mitchel Semar, director of the Office of Seminarians; Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, Father J.D. Matherne, director of the Office of Vocations; Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait, V.G.; and Amy Ponson, executive director of the Catholic Foundation.

House of Formation one step closer to implementation Story by Janet Marcel ~ Photo by Tyler Neil The diocesan Office of Vocations is one step closer to implementing a new concept in the formation of men who desire to study for the priesthood with the purchase of a House of Formation that will be called “Saint Joseph’s Workshop.” This house, which is located a couple of blocks from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, will be a place where men who are discerning a priestly vocation will begin their journey before going to the seminary for formal academic and priestly formation. “Pope Francis announced that the program for priestly formation has changed and he is now calling for a propaedeutic year, in which men who are considering the priesthood will go to a ‘house of formation,’ before they go to the actual seminary,” says Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. “Here, they will be able to establish some of the routines and rules of life they will need, so they are not so ‘shocked’ when they get to the seminary. That can remove any anxiety they might have about their discernment and help them to focus on whether or not God is calling them to the priesthood.” Father John David Matherne, diocesan director of the Office of Vocations, says, “Over the last year there has been a lot of conversation about a need we have for the formation of our seminarians. We recognized that in order to bring seminarian formation to the next level, we need to answer a certain call to have a place where we can house men in the diocese so they can get to know the diocese better, get to know themselves better, and get to know the Lord better. 24 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

The diocese now has a house where our seminarians can spend their first year getting a good foundation for spiritual and human formation.” Father Mitchel Semar, diocesan director of the Office of Seminarians, is looking forward to giving these men an opportunity to grow in their human and spiritual formation in a way that’s separate from the intellectual rigors of the seminary. “It’s hard to discern God’s call in the midst of external pressures. I’m super excited that they will have the freedom to grow here personally, but also in relationship with others. And, I believe that after a year (or two) in this house, we will be more confident and they will be more confident that God is actually calling them to take the next step to formal seminary training. And a lot of their discernment will already be done before they even get to the seminary,” says the priest. Father Matherne says the diocese is leading the way in vocational discernment and in the formation of its seminarians. “We’re answering the call of the church. The best way to build up a good priest is to set a good foundation and that’s what this house is about. It’s a commitment from our diocese … to have good, healthy men who are ready to serve our church parishes in a profound and beautiful way.” For more information about the new Formation House, go to www.htdiocese.org/formationhouse or call the diocesan Office of Vocations at (985)850-3129. BC

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Feature

The Annual Bishop’s Appeal directly impacts the formation of youth in the diocese Story by Janet Marcel ~ Photos by Tyler Neil Bishop Shelton J. Fabre makes a direct plea to the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux each year to support certain diocesan ministries through their prayers and financial contributions to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal (ABA). One of the ministries supported by the 2021 Appeal is the formation of youth in the diocese. Bishop Fabre explains this is accomplished in two ways. First, the diocesan Office of Parish Support oversees youth formation that takes place in parish schools of religion. Secondly, the Appeal also supports the Office of Catholic Schools which oversees the faith formation of students in Catholic schools. With respect to faith formation, Bishop Fabre reminds us that the church makes it very clear that parents are always the first “formers” of their children in the ways of faith, so parents should always be examples to their children in matters of the faith. Suzanne Troxclair, diocesan superintendent of Catholic Schools, says the role of the Catholic Schools Office (CSO) is simply to offer guidance and support to the Catholic schools so they can do their job to fulfill the mission of Catholic education, which is to form children into missionary disciples of Christ. “Our goal in Catholic education is to graduate students who are morally and intellectually ready to go out into the world to evangelize and 26 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

spread the word of God; and, we want to provide them with the skills they need so that they can do this.” One example of how the CSO assists schools is by utilizing a new faith formation program through the Catechetical Institute. The program is for teachers, administrators and staff who have contact with students to help them learn how to integrate their faith on daily basis into whatever they’re teaching. The Annual Bishop’s Appeal gives the Catholic Schools Office the ability to support the schools by funding many of its projects. “It also supports the diocesan curriculum specialist, and provides support to the administrators and teachers on a daily basis, which in turn supports the nearly 5,000 students who are enrolled in Catholic schools in our diocese. So the ABA very directly impacts Catholic education in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux,” says Troxclair.

Suzanne Troxclair

Feature

Ann Robichaux, who has been teaching in Catholic education for 21 years, 13 at St. Bernadette Catholic School in Houma and eight at Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma where she currently teaches physical science, says she truly believes the Catholic education her three girls received here in the diocese set them up for an incredible opportunity and future for their careers. “Catholic education is about more than academics; it’s more than teaching students about content. It’s a holistic approach to education; it’s about nurturing their spiritual growth, and their social and emotional growth. We build relationships with our students. We have the opportunity to mold students into faithful Catholics and bright students. Catholic education is a ministry and that’s what we are called to do.” Robichaux has always felt supported in her role as teacher. “I’ve been very lucky because I taught in two schools that provided me incredible support in terms of in the classroom, with students, stakeholders and parents, and also with urging me to grow and to nurture my growth.

They afforded me professional development activities so I was able to pursue my passions and interests in things that I could bring back to the classroom.” Robichaux says she also feels supported by her superintendent, who has attended some of the presentations she was giving at Louisiana State Science Teachers Association meetings and conferences. “That kind of support is so gratifying,” she adds.

Tim Robichaux, president of E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux since 2014, says, “We profess to impart the Catholic faith in our schools; and that’s not just a cliché; it really happens. I believe that is one of the things that makes it very gratifying to the people who work in Catholic schools. We can talk about God. We have the ability to make a profound impact on the students. There’s just a spirit about being here.”

Even though they are not connected directly to a church parish the way the elementary schools are, says the school president, the church parishes, and the diocese are a huge part of what they do. “We have a network of other schools to work with; the schools feed off of each other. There is a very cohesive intermingling of the churches, the schools, and the diocesan offices to make sure that students in Catholic schools are getting the best possible academic education Tim Robichaux while they are being formed as Catholics.” Robichaux says faith is part of everything they do and their job is to make students aware that it is one of the things that will make them successful. “We have contact with students from Pre-K all the way to 12th grade, so we have a profound influence and effect on Catholics in general because Catholic schools lay the foundation,” he says. “It’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly.”

Ann Robichaux

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 27

Feature

Rebecca Abboud, liaison and youth formation specialist for the diocesan Office of Parish Support, says there are two distinct ways the Office supports parish youth formation. The first is through opportunities for ongoing training and formation, support, encouragement, and accompaniment of the parish’s youth formation teams – adults that work with youth in the parishes – for continued growth on their own discipleship journey and to give them the competence and confidence to accompany the young people as they journey through their relationship with Jesus. The second way is through the liaison model. Every

Nickole Chiasson, coordinator of Youth Faith Formation at Our Lady of the Rosary Church parish in Larose, says that although she grew up Baptist, she never felt a connection to that faith. “I didn’t know anything about the Catholic faith when I was younger, but going through RCIA, I learned so many things … and my husband, who has been Catholic all his life, learned some things … and it sparked a passion in my heart to share that with other people, because I want them to feel what I feel and be converted the way I was and have that relationship with Jesus the way I do,” says Chiasson. “That’s what we’re all called to do; we’re all called to be disciples for Christ, so I want to share that with the young people.” Chiasson says the way the youth are being formed now just makes sense. “Getting to know someone, making a connection, and forming relationships where you can walk with them in their journey is so much more meaningful and beautiful than just feeding them knowledge. Having someone that I can reach out to for help in guiding our parish has been 28 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

church parish is assigned a liaison to walk intentionally with the pastors, parish leaders and coordinators of youth formation for support, encouragement, clarity and discernment as they implement the diocese’s vision and form missionary disciples at the parish level. “At the heart of youth formation is implementing Bishop’s Fabre’s vision of not only intellectual formation, but also of accompaniment – a true ‘walking with’ young people on the road to Rebecca Abboud discipleship – to introduce them to Jesus personally and walk with them as they grow. It’s very personal and it’s very relational,” says Abboud. “The reality is that a person’s path to holiness happens most fruitfully in community or with the love, accountability and help of another.” Abboud says the generosity of donors to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal makes the work of the OPS possible. “Their generosity allows us to be able to offer support and encouragement for each of the parishes, and it gives us the freedom and the possibility to walk with the parish leaders in ongoing and consistent ways that allow them to flourish.”

Nickole Chiasson

great. Whenever I speak to Rebecca or any of the other OPS staff, they are always more than open and willing to help us find solutions for what we need in our parish.” Bishop Fabre says, “Youth formation in our parishes and schools are two very important ways that we share the faith with young people in an age today where it is very often called into question, disregarded or said to be irrelevant. But, if we form our youth well, they will understand how this can provide for them a very strong foundation for the rest of their lives.” BC

April Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons and Seminarians

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Rev. Toto Buenaflor Jr.

Rev. Duc Bui

Rev. Joseph Chacko

Rev. Cody Chatagnier

Rev. Carl Collins

Deacon Raymond Bourg Jr., retired

Rev. Van Constant

Rev. Robert-Joel Cruz

Very Rev. Vicente DeLa Cruz, V.F.

Rev. Dean Danos

Rev. Sovi Devasia

Seminarian Stephen Castille

Rev. Daniel Duplantis

Msgr. Cletus Egbi

Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait, V.G.

Rev. Gregory Fratt

Rev. Alex Gaudet

Deacon Sam Burregi, retired

Rev. Rholando Grecia

Rev. Brice Higginbotham

Rev. Rajasekar Karumelnathan

Rev. Noas Kerketta

Rev. Thomas Kuriakose

Seminarian Davis Ahimbisibwe

Rev. Baby Kuruvilla

Rev. Brett Lapeyrouse

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

Rev. Alex Lazarra

Rev. Peter Tai Le

Rev. Glenn LeCompte

Daily Prayer for Clergy and Religious Lord Jesus, hear our prayer for the spiritual renewal of bishops, priests, deacons, brothers, sisters, lay ministers and seminarians of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. We praise You for giving their ministry to the Church. In these days, renew them with the gifts of Your Spirit. You once opened the Holy Scriptures to Your disciples when You walked on this earth. Now renew Your ordained and chosen ones with the truth and power of Your Word. In Eucharist you gave Your disciples renewed life and hope. Nourish Your consecrated ones with Your own Body and Blood. Help them to imitate in their lives the death and resurrection they celebrate around Your altar. Give them enthusiasm for the Gospel, zeal for the salvation of all people, courage in leadership and humility in service. Give them Your love for one another and for all their brothers and sisters in You. For You love them, Lord Jesus, and we love and pray for them in Your Holy Name, today especially for _______________________. Amen.

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April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 29

Youth

in action HANNAH NOEL STASZAK School: Vandebilt Catholic High School, Houma Grade: 11th grade Church parish: St. Bernadette, Houma Describe your family unit: Jamie, mother; Chris, father; Christopher, brother Favorite Hobby: Reading Favorite Movie: Forgotten Favorite T.V. Show: Sweet Home Favorite Genre of Music: Pop

In what ways can young people rise with Christ at Easter and show his love to the world today? Jesus gave us the gift of his life so that all could rise to new life with him, yet many people in today’s society forget this sacrifice. Instead, people dwell on the trials that they face and allow themselves to drown in their own sorrow. Easter can give us the chance to rise with Christ and show his love to the world. One issue our modern world faces is that many young people don’t know how to show their faith in their everyday lives. One way that the youth of today can display Jesus’ love is by getting involved in their community. Many people have grand ideas of traveling to far off lands and helping people in foreign nations. This passion to help those less fortunate

than them is grand, but it causes them to forget that there are people much closer to home who need a helping hand. Young people should consider donating to local charities or volunteering within their own communities. Jesus calls all people to give alms and help the needy. By offering our services, we are showing that we are true Christians living as Jesus would call all people to live. Another way that the youth of today can rise with Christ this Easter is by attending church and giving their full attention during the Mass. Many people attend Mass every single Sunday and holy day of obligation, but lack the necessary mental presence. Thinking about other

30 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

things during the homily or saying your prayers without absorbing the meanings of the words are times when we may not be mentally present in the Mass. Listening to every word of the homily, meditating upon every line of our prayers, and remembering that Christ is present every single second of the Mass will help us to grow as Christians of good faith. All of these things that will help us to show our love and rise with Christ may seem simple, but we must put our whole heart and true intentions behind our actions in order to bring them to fruition. Through our faith in Christ, we can do anything that we put our minds to. BC

Seminarian eDucation burSeS Seminarian Spotlight Matthew Prosperie n What church parish are you from? St. Ann, Bourg n Where are you studying and in what year of your studies are you? I study in Rome and am now in my second year of studying theology. n What’s family life look like for you? I am the youngest of six. I have three brothers and two sisters. n What is your ideal Saturday morning? A little bit of coffee, in a lawn chair, watching the sun rise in my backyard while praying morning prayer. n What is your favorite Bible quote? “Even now, says the Lord return to me with your whole heart” (Joel 2:12). n What type of food do you wish would disappear from every menu on the planet? Gorgonzola; it’s a cheese topping they put on pizza here in Italy. It looks like normal cheese but isn’t, and it gets me every time.

DiD you know? Seminarian eDucation coStS on average $45,000 a year for eight yearS Seminarian enDowmentS can be nameD enDoweD funDS/burSeS. each year intereSt earneD form the enDowmentS are granteD to the DioceSe to cover annual coStS of their eDucation. catholic founDation of South louiSiana manageS Seminarian enDowmentS for the DioceSe.

all completeD Seminarian eDucation burSeS can be vieweD online at www.htDioceSe.org/vocationS For more information contact the Catholic Foundation at 985-850-3116 or aponson@htdiocese.org April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 31

Church Life

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Catechumen Abraham Garcia, a parishioner of Sacred Heart Church in Cut Off, is shown with his sponsors during the Rite of Election at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

Catechumens and candidates gather at Cathedral and Co-Cathedral during first weekend of Lent Due to the restrictions in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Rite of the Call to Continuing Conversion of Baptized Candidates was held at St. Joseph CoCathedral in Thibodaux, and the Rite of Election of Catechumens was held at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. Both ceremonies took place during the first weekend of Lent. The catechumens, those who have not been baptized, are called forth by name. Pastors, godparents and catechists give witness to the bishop that the “chosen” catechumens are appropriately prepared for the Easter sacraments. Traditionally, the “elect” keep the Lenten season as their final preparation before they come forward at the Easter Vigil to accept the sacred mysteries of the Easter sacraments. This is called the “Period of Purification and Enlightenment.” Bishop Shelton J. Fabre declared the following 16 Catechumens “elect” for

the sacraments at the upcoming Easter vigil: Krystal H. Falgout, Barbara M. Levy, Kelsey E. Pellegrin, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma; Abraham Garcia, Sacred Heart, Cut Off; Coklin Nguyen, Sacred Heart, Morgan City; April N. Trahan, St. Anthony, Bayou Black; Kristen Ellender, Olivia Burnham, Owen Burnham, Andre Brien, St. Bernadette, Houma; Sherry L. Grabert, Garrett M. Porche, St. Eloi, Theriot; Joseph Anthony Niquiporo, Joseph Trey Niquiporo, St. John the Evangelist, Thibodaux; Madalyn Hoskins, St. Joseph Co-Cathedral, Thibodaux; Nicholas Breland, St. Thomas Aquinas, Thibodaux. The candidates are those who are already baptized in another Christian tradition and desire to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church or those uncatechized Catholics completing their Christian initiation. In a process of formation similar to the catechumenate, these candidates

32 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

who have been prepared within the parish are presented to the bishop and he celebrates with them the Rite of the Call to Continuing Conversion to be enacted in their parish during Lent to become full members in the Catholic Church. Bishop Fabre recognized the commitment of the following eight Candidates to continue their conversion and preparation to receive the sacraments of confirmation and Eucharist: Sara P. Galbreath, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma; Soriana B. Guevara, Sacred Heart, Morgan City; Marti P. Burnham, William D. Owens, Ashley P. Owens, St. Bernadette, Houma; Amy E. Denton, Brian M. Malbrough Jr., Timothy R. Soignet, St. Eloi, Theriot; Cathrine M. Jeblonski, St. Joseph CoCathedral, Thibodaux; Sydney Swann, Kaleigh Monica, Brittany Bouzigard, St. Thomas Aquinas, Thibodaux. BC

Church Life

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

In photo at left, candidate Sara P. Galbreath, a parishioner of the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma, is shown with her sponsor during the Rite of Call to Continuing Conversion of Baptized Candidates at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux.

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Special

Pope Francis declares a year-long observance and celebration of St. Joseph Guest Columnist Very Rev. Vicente DeLa Cruz

On Dec. 8, 2020, Pope Francis issued his apostolic letter “Patris corde” (With a Father’s Loving Heart), declaring a year-long observance and celebration of St. Joseph (December 2020 to December 2021), on the occasion of the 150th Anniversary of the Declaration of St. Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church. The Apostolic Letter can be found at: http://www.vatican.va/content/ francesco/en/apost_letters/documents/ papa-francesco-lettera-ap_20201208_ patris-corde.html. In his Apostolic Letter, Pope Francis identified the admirable qualities of St. Joseph as husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and foster-father of Jesus. Pope Francis invites all to learn and use these qualities as ways to grow in the faith and to witness to the Gospel (https://www.vaticannews.va/ en/pope/news/2020-12/pope-francisproclaims-year-of-st-joseph.html). Unfortunately, the restrictions

imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic prohibits many of us from gathering together and celebrating this special year of St. Joseph. Nevertheless, there are some opportunities that you can do on your own and/or with your families and friends that will honor St. Joseph. What can you do to observe and celebrate the Special Year of St. Joseph? Fifteen ways can be found at: https:// www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/ fifteen-ways-to-gain-an-indulgence-inthe-year-of-st-joseph-81304. A plenary indulgence (removal of all the temporal punishment) has been granted during the Year of St. Joseph provided the following conditions are met: 1) sacramental confession, 2) participation at the celebration of the Eucharist and reception of holy Communion, and 3) praying for the pope’s intentions. In addition to the 15 ways mentioned above, here are some other ideas to observe the Year of St. Joseph. a. Create your own little Altar of St. Joseph with his statue or picture and decorate around it. Add pictures of your grandfather, father, brother, husband, son(s), and other men in your life and pray for them that through the intercessions of St. Joseph they will receive God’s blessings now and hereafter. b. Use the Litany of St. Joseph and meditate on the Litany as a means to

34 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

focus your mind and heart in prayer: (https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/ devotions/litany-of-st-joseph-247). c. Using Father Donald Calloway’s Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father as a guide, make a personal or family consecration to St. Joseph. Go to: https://www.ncregister.com/ features/it-takes-a-father-new-bookhighlights-consecration-to-st-joseph. This book and related materials are available at God’s Precious Word and Gifts located at St. Mary’s Street in Thibodaux. d. Visit churches named after St. Joseph. In addition to our CoCathedral in Thibodaux, we have two other churches in our diocese that honor St. Joseph as their patron: St. Joseph Church in Galliano and St. Joseph Church in Chauvin. You can check their activities and schedule by going to our diocesan website at www. htdiocese.org, choose “Churches,” then “Church Parishes Search” and click on these church parishes. e. Finally, here is a link for all resources available on observing the Year of St. Joseph: :https://catholiclink.org/the-resources-you-need-forthe-year-of-st-joseph/. (Very Rev. Vicente DeLa Cruz, M.C.L., J.C.L., V.F., V.C. is the pastor of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral parish in Thibodaux.) BC

YOU DO THE LIVING, we do the rest!

Special

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre composed the special prayer below for the Year of St. Joseph:

Prayer to Saint Joseph O good St. Joseph, Guardian of Jesus and Mary, I place myself under your faithful protection. You were always attentive to the voice of the Lord and never ceased to follow wherever God led you. Help me to hear and respond to God’s voice with the same humble fidelity. O St. Joseph, terror of demons, protect me from all that might tempt me away from abiding in communion with Jesus. Chaste Spouse of the Blessed Virgin, grant me a pure heart that I may see as God sees, and love as God loves. With deep tenderness you cared for Mary and held the sleeping child Jesus, the Son of God, in your arms. O dear St. Joseph, pray for me that I might have a mind and heart to receive that same love from my Father in heaven. St. Joseph, intercede for me always so that under your care I might be found worthy to rejoice forever with Jesus and you in heaven. Amen.

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Easter

Symbols of Easter Now why would a rabbit have eggs in an Easter basket? Well, there was a legend about how Eastre, the goddess of spring, changed an eagle into a hare (a rabbit). The rabbit could not forget his old habits, however, and the changed rabbit kept on building nests and filling them with eggs.

Guest Columnist Father Michael Bergeron

Easter Eggs A lot of people are concerned about our holidays. They say Christmas and Easter are so commercialized that we have taken the religious significance out of the celebrations. But is that really right? Or has the religious significance always been there and we simply fail to see it. If we take a closer look at the symbols of Easter we might be surprised to find Christ everywhere.

spring equinox (March 21) is Easter. So it falls on different days between March 22 and April 25, depending when the first full moon occurs after March 21. Rabbits

Easter

It was St. Bede, in the eighth century, who proposed that the name Easter is from the Scandinavian Ostra and Teutonic Ostern or Eastre, both names for the Goddess of mythology signifying spring and fertility whose festival was celebrated on the day of the vernal equinox. Early Christians and Jews referred to the Easter as “Passover.” Passover is celebrated for eight days and commemorates the flight and freedom of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

The hare or the rabbit is a symbol of the moon. So, it became associated with Easter since the moon is used to determine the date of Easter. Some early Christians used the rabbit as a symbol of Christ after his resurrection. You see, rabbits can be seen, and then they disappear and begin being seen somewhere else. So that reminded them of the Risen Christ.

Date of Easter The date of Easter is determined by the moon. The first Sunday following the full moon that occurs or follows the 36 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

Eggs, of course, are a big symbol of Easter. Even before Jesus walked the earth, eggs were a symbol of creation, fertility and new life. For Christians it represents a new beginning. The shell can be seen as a nurturing, life-giving tomb. The hatching chick represents the emerging of Christ from the tomb. Chicks

Easter Baskets

In early times, people were mystified by eggs. They felt the hatching of a chick was a miracle. From out of a lifeless shell, a tiny beak would appear, then a fuzzy head, and then the small warm body of a living baby bird. The miracle of this birth represented the miracle of Christ leaving the tomb and being re-born in resurrection.

Easter

Flowers

seeds upon the earth. Barren tree branches reach to the sky, without leaves and without fruit. Butterflies, bees, spiders and flies, and all sorts of insects disappear. What was alive before seems dead. But then: Wake up! Spring has come. It is a time for new life to begin. Green sprouts peek out of the earth. Sleeping buds burst into bloom. Tiny leaves appear on branches. Insects buzz and crickets chirp, breaking their long winter silence. What was dead before is now alive. That reminds us of Jesus, who died and then rose again to new life!

loudly. So the trumpet or the lily announces that Jesus has risen. Butterflies

Flowers are another sign of spring and of new life. From an ugly bulb or boring seeds comes beautiful flowers. Easter Lilies

Butterflies are also a symbol of Easter. The caterpillar spins a cocoon. The cocoon reminds us of a tomb. After a while, it emerges from the cocoon to new life. It is resurrected and it is beautiful just like Jesus.

The Cross

Death to Life

One flower, in particular, really reminds of us Easter. It is the lily. Look at the lily! It is flower is shaped like a trumpet, and in Jesus’ time trumpets were used to announce extremely important news. The trumpets were used to call people to come to the worship. It even says that when Jesus comes back, great trumpets will blow

The cross, of course, represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. But it has a special meaning to Christians. Early Christians never had Jesus hanging on the cross. The cross was bare. It is not a symbol of death, but a symbol of Christ’s victory over death. It reminds us of our hope, our faith, and the promise of eternal life.

Nature helps us to understand Easter. In winter, the world is a tomb for countless living things. Lovely wild flowers wilt and die and drop their

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April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 37

Easter

Lamb

The Last Supper was the Passover. It commemorated when the Jews were getting ready to leave Egypt. Every family sacrificed a lamb and put the blood of the lamb over their door so that the angel of death would “pass over” the Israelites. Lambs were sacrificed in the temple for the forgiveness of sins. John the Baptist called Jesus “The Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.” We say that during Mass. The lamb represents Jesus who was sacrificed for our sins. Easter Parades

In the early church, those who were baptized at the Easter Vigil were dressed in a white robe. They would wear that robe throughout the whole Easter week as a symbol of their new life. Those who had already been baptized in prior years, did not wear white robes, but would wear “new clothes” to indicate their share in the new life of Christ. So, wearing of new clothes at Easter was an external profession and symbol of the Easter grace. People would take a long walk through town in their new outfits after the Easter Mass. That eventually evolved into the Easter Parade.

Sunday during Advent when we light the pink candle. That Sunday is called Joyful Sunday or Gaudete Sunday. Pink is the color of joy or rejoicing. That is why twice during the year the priest wears pink: on Joyful Sunday during Advent and on Rejoice Sunday during Lent.

Sunrise

The sunrise is a symbol of a new day. Jesus’ death was like the night, but his resurrection was like the sunrise of a new day - the Day of the Lord. Rejoice (Lataere) One particular Sunday in Lent is called Rejoice Sunday or Lataere Sunday. It is the fourth Sunday. It is because people are to rejoice because Easter is almost here. It is the same as the Third

We will rejoice even more when we celebrate Easter Sunday. That reminds us that Jesus rose from the dead, conquered death, and gave all of us eternal life. So our faith is all around us during this Easter season. If you feel that Easter is too commercial, then look around you, and appreciate the symbols. There is Christ in this season. Some of us simply fail to see it. Easter can be commercial or it can be spiritual. It is what you make it! BC

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Announcement

Blessing of the Fleet during April The Blessing of the Fleet is a popular tradition along many coastal communities throughout the world. A few church parishes in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux sponsor a Blessing of the Fleet every year, which either takes place prior to the brown shrimp season which begins in May or the white shrimp season which begins in August. The purpose of the ceremony is for fishermen to thank God that they are able to make a living fishing and shrimping, to ask God for a plentiful season, and to pray for the safety of the men, their boats and their equipment.

This year four church parishes in the diocese will sponsor a Blessing of the Fleet. St. Joseph Church parish in Chauvin’s Blessing of the Fleet will take place Sunday, April 18 beginning at Noon. Father Baby Kuruvilla will bestow a special blessing on all fishermen at each of the Masses that weekend. The Blessing of the Fleet at Holy Family Church parish in Grand Caillou will be held Sunday, April 25, immediately following the 10:30 a.m. Mass. On Friday, April 23, there will be a shrimp boil on the church

grounds. Please call the church office at (985) 563-2325 for more information. St. Charles Borromeo Church parish in Pointe-aux-Chenes will have its Blessing of the Fleet Sunday, April 25 beginning at 1:30 p.m. St. Christopher medals will be distributed to all boat owners at each Mass that weekend. Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish in Golden Meadow’s Blessing of the Fleet will be held Sunday, April 18, immediately following the 9 a.m. Mass. BC

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Special

A Hispanic Mass was celebrated at Christ the Redeemer Church in Thibodaux to kick off the implementation of Hispanic Ministry’s new Pastoral Plan.

Hispanic Ministry begins implementation of Pastoral Plan Story by Janet Marcel ~ Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier “In an effort to respond to the diocesan strategic Plans of Hope that was promulgated in 2017 and the Fifth National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry (2018), it is my desire that the Hispanic communities of our diocese renew the Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry,” says Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. “Renewing the plan is a necessity in order to minister to our Spanish speaking brothers and sisters who are an important part of our Catholic communities. It is necessary to continue working toward a collaborative ministry that will allow these Spanish speaking communities to feel part of their parish, part of their diocese and part of the universal church.” The process is being led by the diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry and supported by the diocesan Office of Parish Support, as well as the Southeast Pastoral Institute (SEPI). SEPI is the educational branch of the Southeast Regional Office for Hispanic Ministry, the organization of the United States Bishops that coordinates and supports Hispanic Ministry in the 30 dioceses of the Southeast (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee). Through its three pillars of Evangelization, Formation and Communion, SEPI strives to facilitate the full participation of Hispanics/ Latinos in the mission of the church and society as authentic missionary disciples. “Bishop Fabre’s convocation is a great blessing for the initiation of this process of renewal of the Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry,” says Sister Midory Wu, M.C.S.H., diocesan director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry. “The intention of the diocesan Plans of Hope for Hispanic Ministry 2021-2024 is to integrate the vision of the diocese and the dynamic method of V Encuentro to respond to the call to missionary discipleship of the Hispanic community from their Catholic faith and cultural contribution to the local church.” The process of Encuentro for Hispanic/Latino ministry is 40 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

motivated by reading the signs of the times and is convened by the bishop, who calls the Hispanic/Latino community to raise their voices. The main objective of the process of the Encuentro is to discern the way in which Hispanics/Latinos respond as church (https://vencuentro.org/encuentros/). Sister Midory explains that she has been working with the Office of Parish Support to organize five workshops for appropriation of the process: Workshop 1, March 19: What is a pastoral planning: Why planning? Workshop 2, April 16: What is a disciple? How do you make one? Workshop 3, May 7: Liturgy-Sunday (preaching, music, liturgical catechesis) Workshop 4, May 28: Formation (adults, youth, Catholic schools) Workshop 5, June 4: Outreach (major life moments, parish social ministry, evangelization) Dr. Olga Villar, director of Formation for SEPI, will be facilitating the five workshops. Dr. Villar was first associated with SEPI as a teenager in Pastoral Juvenil. She earned a master’s degree and doctorate in Hispanic Ministry, has taught courses at SEPI for 22 years and served as director of Hispanic Ministry in the Archdiocese of Mobile, AL, where she led the process of the V Encuentro. She is part of the Southeast Regional V Encuentro leadership team and teaches at SEPI’s master’s program and schools of ministries. At the conclusion of the five workshops, there will be a reflection period for discernment of the priorities of each area to be addressed. Next, a team will work on a draft of the plan to be presented to Bishop Fabre by July 2021, for his review and approval. In September 2021, each Hispanic community will begin implementation of the new Hispanic Plan of Hope. BC

Especial

El Obispo Shelton J. Fabre fue el celebrante principal de la misa hispana en Cristo Redentor en Thibodaux para iniciar la implementación del nuevo Plan Pastoral para el Ministerio Hispano.

El Ministerio Hispano empieza la implementación del Plan Pastoral Historia de Janet Marcel ~ Fotografías de Lawrence Chatagnier “En un esfuerzo por responder a la estrategia diocesana Planes de Esperanza que fue promulgada en el 2017 y el V Encuentro Nacional de Ministerio Hispano/Latino (2018), es mi deseo que las comunidades hispanas de nuestra diócesis renueven el Plan Pastoral del Ministerio Hispano”, dice el Obispo Shelton J. Fabre. “La renovación del plan es una necesidad con el fin de servir a nuestros hermanos y hermanas de habla hispana quienes son una parte importante de nuestra comunidad católica. Es necesario continuar trabajando hacia un ministerio colaborativo que permitirá a estas comunidades hispano hablantes sentirse parte de su parroquia, parte de su diócesis y parte de la iglesia universal”. El proceso está siendo dirigido por la Oficina del Ministerio Hispano y apoyado por la Oficina diocesana de Apoyo Parroquial, así como también por el Instituto Pastoral del Sureste (SEPI). SEPI es una rama educativa de la Oficina Regional del Ministerio Hispano, la organización de los Obispos de los Estados Unidos que coordina y apoya el ministerio hispano en las 30 diócesis del Sureste (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Luisiana, Mississippi, Carolina del Norte, Carolina del Sur y Tennessee). A través de los tres pilares de Evangelización, Formación y Comunión, el SEPI intenta facilitar la plena participación de los Hispanos/Latinos en la misión de la iglesia y la sociedad como auténticos discípulos misioneros. “La convocación del Obispo Fabre es una gran bendición para el inicio de este proceso de renovación del Plan Pastoral para el Ministerio Hispano”, dice la Hna. Midory Wu, M.C.S.H., directora diocesana de la Oficina del Ministerio Hispano. “La intención diocesana de los Planes de Esperanza para el Ministerio Hispano 2021-2024 es integrar la visión diocesana y el método dinámico del V Encuentro para responder al llamado del discipulado misionero de la comunidad hispana desde la contribución de su fe católica y cultura a la iglesia local”. El proceso del V Encuentro del Ministerio Hispano/Latino

está motivado por la lectura de los signos de los tiempos y es convocado por el obispo, quien llama a la comunidad Hispana/Latina a levantar sus voces. El principal objetivo del Encuentro es discernir la manera en que los Hispanos/ Latinos responden como iglesia (https://vencuentro.org/ encuentros/). La Hna. Midory explica que ella ha estado trabajando con la Oficina de Apoyo Parroquial para organizar cinco talleres para la apropiación del proceso: Taller 1, 19 de Marzo: ¿Qué es la planeación pastoral? ¿Por qué planeamos? Taller 2, 16 de Abril: ¿Qué es un discípulo? ¿Cómo hacemos uno? Taller 3, 7 de Mayo: Liturgia Dominical (predicación, música, catequesis litúrgica) Taller 4, 28 de Mayo: Formación (adultos, jóvenes, escuelas católicas) Taller 5, 4 de Junio: Alcance (mayores momentos de la vida, pastoral social, evangelización) La doctora Olga Villar, directora de Formación del SEPI, estará facilitando los cinco talleres. La Dra. Villar fue primero asociada del SEPI como adolescente en la Pastoral Juvenil. Obtuvo una maestría y doctorado en el Ministerio Hispano, ha enseñado cursos en el SEPI por 22 años y servido como directora del Ministerio Hispano en la Arquidiócesis de Mobile, AL, donde guio el proceso del V Encuentro. Ella es parte del equipo del V Encuentro de la Región del Sureste y enseña el programa de maestría del SEPI y escuela de ministerios. Al concluir los cinco talleres, habrá un periodo de reflexión y discernimiento de las prioridades de cada área que será abarcada. Después, un equipo trabajará en el borrador del plan para ser presentado al Obispo Fabre en Julio de 2021, para su revisión y aprobación. En Septiembre 2021, cada comunidad empezará la implementación del nuevo Plan de Esperanza Hispana. BC April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 41

Announcement

At the ceremony in Vatican City from left are Father Joshua Rodrigue, director of Spiritual Formation at the Pontifical North American College; seminarian Joseph Lapeyrouse; Archbishop Jorge Carlos Patrón Wong, and seminarian Matthew Prosperie.

Ministry of Acolyte At a ceremony in Vatican City recently, Archbishop Jorge Carlos Patrón Wong, secretary for seminaries in the Congregation for Clergy, conferred the ministry of acolyte in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at the Pontifical North American College. Joseph Lapeyrouse (Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma) and Matthew

Prosperie (St. Ann Church parish, Bourg) were among 32 second-year seminarians studying at the college to be honored at the Mass. As part of the rite, the archbishop placed the paten, which contains hosts for the celebration of Mass, in the hands of each candidate. He then said, “Take this vessel with bread for the celebration

of the Eucharist. Make your life worthy of your service at the table of the Lord and of his church.” The Pontifical North American College serves as the American seminary in Rome, and has formed over 5,000 priests near the heart of the church for service in dioceses in the United States, Canada and Australia. BC

Father Justino (Loloy) Estoque dies in the Philippines

Father Justino (Loloy) Estoque

Father Justino (Loloy) Estoque, passed away Friday, March 19, in the Philippines, after suffering from a lingering illness. He was 64 years old. Father Estoque was born June 7, 1957, in Bohol, Philippines. After his seminary formation, he was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Tagbilaran on April 3,1982, and served his diocese in various capacities throughout the years. In 2010, Father Estoque came to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux as part of the priests-on-loan program

42 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

and was assigned as associate pastor of the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. In March 2011, he was appointed administrator of Holy Family Church parish in Grand Caillou, and then as pastor in June 2011, where he served until his departure for the Philippines in 2015. Please remember Father Estoque and his family in your prayers, as well as the community of Holy Family in Grand Caillou, whom he served during his priestly ministry here in the diocese. BC

Announcement

Raymond Saadi

Bayou Catholic’s beloved book reviewer dies at age 90 Raymond Anthony Saadi, who has authored Reading with Raymond for the Bayou Catholic magazine since March 2015, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2021, at the age of 90. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma, followed by a private interment. Saadi is survived by his wife of 47 years Jere Land Saadi, a son, Gary Stephen Fanguy, and his daughter, Patti Thomas. He was a graduate of St. Francis de Sales High and served as president of his senior class. He attended Loyola University in New Orleans and then became a broadcast radio announcer in Houma. He later took a similar position with KTIB in Thibodaux rising to manager, and later was instrumental in creating KHOM-FM in Houma in which he was an owner and general manager. In addition, he was an owner/manager of KTIB and WBND in Biloxi, MS. His stations won many awards in the industry including Best Stations of the Year

and “Broadcaster of the Year.” Saadi was a longtime member of the Louisiana Association of Broadcasters, National Association of Broadcasters Radio Board of Directors, the NBC Radio Board of Directors, and Radio Board of Directors of the Associated Press, all in Washington, D.C. Raymond was active in community affairs having served many years on the Board of the Houma-Terrebonne Chamber of Commerce. As president, he led the Chamber in applying for accreditation which was received the following year. He served at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet as master of ceremonies for 15 consecutive years. Following his retirement from broadcasting, he began writing book reviews for Acadiana Lifestyle, and newspapers in New Iberia and Lafayette, and later for the Bayou Catholic magazine, a pleasure he enjoyed till his very end. Saadi was a long-time member of Le Petit Theatre, winning many awards for acting, directing, serving on its board of directors and as its president. He was a cofounder of the Thibodaux Playhouse where he acted, directed plays, and served as president. For those wishing to remember Saadi, please donate to the Le Petit Theatre de Terrebonne Renovation Fund, P.O. Box 805, Houma, LA 70361. BC

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April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 43 39

Announcement

Jennifer Armand, executive director of Bayou Community Foundation presents a $2,000 grant to Second Harvest Food Bank to support food pantries in Houma and Galliano. Also pictured from left are Margie McGowen, program coordinator for Second Harvest; Father Billy Velasco, administrator of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Church parish in Houma; and Nicole Bourgeois, Ph.D., LMFT, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

Bayou Community Foundation awards $2,000 grant for Galliano and Houma food pantries As part of its ongoing efforts to fight hunger in Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes, the Bayou Community Foundation (BCF) recently awarded a $2,000 grant to Second Harvest Food Bank to expand food distribution at two of its partner food pantries in the Bayou Region. With the grant, Second Harvest has purchased a freezer, refrigerator and shelving for the Catholic Community Center food pantry in Galliano and the Caritas Food Pantry on the campus of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Church parish in Houma, which will allow both sites to provide meat, perishable foods and more packaged food items to needy residents. “Our Lafourche and Terrebonne communities were already experiencing rising food insecurity among residents before the pandemic. Over the past year, that need has grown significantly and our local food banks are working diligently to fill the food gap,” says Henry Lafont, president of BCF. “We are pleased to award this special grant

to Second Harvest to help these two local food banks feed more families right here at home.” The $2,000 BCF grant was made possible by contributions to the foundation’s Second Harvest Fund, designed to lead the fight against hunger and build food security in Terrebonne, Lafourche and Grand Isle. “There is a big need for fresh food and groceries in our bayou parishes. We are grateful for the support from the Bayou Community Foundation to serve more hungry families, children, and seniors in Cut Off and Houma,” says Natalie Jayroe, president and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank. The Catholic Community Center in Galliano became a Second Harvest food pantry partner in 2020 and serves about 100 families per month. As a Second Harvest partner, the Center has access to more food resources, enabling them to serve even more residents. BCF grant funds were used to purchase a freezer for the food pantry. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of

44 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

Houma-Thibodaux recently opened the new Caritas Food Pantry in east Houma, where many of the city’s homeless are located and where many residents face barriers to transportation. The pantry will serve approximately 500 families per month. A refrigerator and shelving were purchased with BCF grant funds. “The Caritas Food Pantry has only been open for a few weeks, and the demand for food assistance has been tremendous,” says Nicole Bourgeois, Ph.D., LMFT, executive director of Catholic Charities Diocese of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. “We are grateful to Bayou Community Foundation and Second Harvest for helping us meet the needs of our homeless and hungry in east Houma.” For more information on the Bayou Community Foundation or the Second Harvest Fund, visit www.BayouCF.org or contact Coordinator Jennifer Armand at ArmandJ@BayouCF.org. BC

Special

Tips for protecting children n Sexual abuse is about the victim. Many people are affected by abuse but the individual most impacted is the victim who has suffered a violation of trust that can affect his or her entire life. n The residual effects of having been abused can last a lifetime. The sense of violation goes deep into a person’s psyche and feelings of anger, shame,

hurt and betrayal can build long after the abuse has taken place. Those who have been abused can heal, but it often takes time, therapy, and the support of loved ones. n No one has the right to give access to children. No one, no matter who they are, has an automatic right to be around children or young people who are in the care of the church without proper screening and without following the rules. n Common sense is not all that common. Dioceses, schools, parishes, and especially

families, must educate themselves and others on how to protect children. n Child sexual abuse can be prevented. It is critical to build safety barriers around children and young people to keep them from harm—such as protective guardians, codes of conduct, background evaluations, policies and procedures, and safety training programs. n Feeling heard leads toward healing. Relief from hurt and anger often comes when one feels heard, when one’s pain and concerns are taken seriously, and a victim/survivor’s suffering, pain, and anger are acknowledged. BC

April 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 45

Sports

With Brees gone, can the Saints still make the playoffs? Overtime Ed Daniels

About 24 hours after Saints quarterback Drew Brees made his retirement announcement, the Saints agreed to a one year, $12 million contract with Jameis Winston. So, let’s see. The Saints are obligated for only one season to Winston and to Taysom Hill. Hill signed a 4-year extension, but none of the money after 2021 is guaranteed. Welcome to the one-year audition to replace Drew Brees. My guess is, barring injury, or a disastrous preseason,

46 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • April 2021

Winston will be the Saints quarterback when the 2021 season kicks off. There’s a lot to like. He’s mobile, and he can throw any pass. The Saints playbook, with Winston at quarterback is wide open. The Saints obviously feel that the quarterback they thought they knew when he was at Tampa Bay, isn’t the same guy who spent the 2020 season in the Saints locker room. Maybe so. And, the Saints obviously feel that Sean Payton is the head coach who can teach Winston how to be more selective with his throws. With Winston in Tampa Bay, it was feast or famine. In 2019, he was the only quarterback in the NFL to throw for 5,000 yards. He also threw a mind boggling 30 interceptions. Winston also had fumbling issues. From 2015 to 2019, as the starter at Tampa Bay, Winston fumbled 31 times. In the last six seasons, from 2015 through 2020, Drew Brees fumbled 22 times. And, Brees, even in the twilight of his NFL career, was far more efficient than Winston. Here’s Brees’ quarterback rating the last six seasons: 101.0, 101.7, 103.9, 115.7, 116.3 and 106.4. Jameis Winston’s highest passer rating of his career is 92.2, in 2017. In the meantime, now is the perfect time for Brees to step aside. He has his Super Bowl ring (not winning another won’t tarnish his legacy). He has a network TV job waiting. And, the Saints are, at the very least, retooling, if not rebuilding. When the Saints cut Jared Cook, Nick Easton, Josh Hill, Janoris Jenkins, Thomas Morstead, Emmanuel Sanders, they terminated 816 regular season games of NFL experience. The Saints roster will be cheaper and far less experienced. And, injuries, something the Saints could weather before, with quality depth, will be far more of a variable as to how successful the Saints are in 2021. The last time a team other than the New Orleans Saints, won the NFC South was in 2016. If New Orleans wins the South for an unprecedented fifth straight season, it means that either Winston or Hill, or a combination of the two, has had a stellar season. It would be a great story. But, I say it’s far more likely that the Saints are an eight or nine win team this season. With Drew Brees at quarterback, the question was can the Saints win another Super Bowl? Now, the question is, can the Saints still make the playoffs? The narrative changes, drastically, when a first ballot Hall of Fame quarterback walks away. BC

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Bayou Catholic Magazine April 2021

Articles inside

Overtime

Food Pantry grant

Ministries of Acolyte

Symbols of Easter

Youth In Action

Blessing of the Fleet

Hispanic Ministry Pastoral Plan

Annual Bishop’s Appeal

Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons and Seminarians

House of Formation

Fratelli tutti’: Chapter 4

Questions of Faith

Comfort For My People

Readings Between the Lines

Pope Speaks

Heavenly Recipes

Students of the Year

From the Editor