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Thibodaux.com
On yOur new assignment As the shepherd Of the diOcese Of hOuma-thibOdaux. the peOple Of hOuma-thibOdaux are lOOking fOrward tO walking with yOu in faith as yOu call the diOcese Of hOuma-thibOdaux yOur new hOme. may yOu enjOy the gifts Of the rich cultures Of the cathOlic faithful in Our beautiful “bayOu cOuntry.”
Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, is seated at the cathedra during the Rite of Installation ceremony at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. Bishop Dorsonville is flanked by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, papal nuncio to the United States; and Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
8 Editor ’s EyeView
11 Installation and Night of Prayer
By Janet Marcel18 One on one
By Monique Albarado40 A man of ser vice
By Monique Albarado42 Joyful bishop
By Mark Zimmer man36 A warm hear t, love for service
By Msgr. John J. Enzler
38 Big laughter
By Gabriella Smith44 ‘A priest’s priest’
By Michele Bowe47 A profound effect
By J. Paul McNamara
The editor and staff of Bayou Catholic sincerely thank everyone who contributed to this special issue welcoming Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux as our Fifth Bishop.
This issue represents the concerted efforts of many individuals who sent in articles and photos, so that we, the people of the diocese, could learn more about our new bishop.
Special thanks to Mark Zimmerman, editor, and Patricia Castrillo, production assistant, of The Catholic Standard newspaper in the Archdiocese of Washington.
We also gratefully acknowledge the many generous advertisers who helped make this publication possible.
How to reach us:
BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132
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BY FAX: (985) 850-3232
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The Bayou Catholic is published monthly, for the people of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux by the H-T Publishing Co., P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395. Subscription rate is $35 per year.
The BayouCatholicis a member of the Catholic Media Association, the National Newspaper Association and an associate member of the Louisiana Press Association.
Janet Marcel editor and general manager
Lawrence Chatagnier editorial consultant
April LeBouef business manager
Monique V. Albarado staff writer/photographer
Tisha Rachal graphic designer
Becky Thibodeaux accounting specialist
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Where to find your Bayou Catholic Bayou Catholic magazine can be found at all Catholic churches and Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. To pick up a copy, you may also visit the merchants who advertise in our issue. Those wishing to receive the magazine by mail can call Janet Marcel at (985) 850-3132 or write to Bayou Catholic, P.O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395. Subscription price is $35 annually. For the online edition, go to www.bayoucatholic.org
At the end of March, Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville was officially installed as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in a grand celebration at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.
Many of his close friends traveled a great distance to be here in person so that they could participate in his Mass of Installation and to show their love and support for him and his friendship. Thousands of lay faithful from throughout the diocese also shared in this historic moment either in person or by watching the celebration as it was being livestreamed via the diocese’s various social media platforms. The livestream was also simulcast by HTV and CatholicTV Network out of Boston, MA. We Are One Body Catholic® Radio Network (WAOB.org) out of Latrobe, PA; and EWTN aired a recording.
Following the Installation Mass, a reception was held where hundreds stood in line for the opportunity to greet the newly installed bishop, take a photo with him and welcome him to Houma-Thibodaux. The day was a truly joyous and memorable occasion.
I was fortunate that I was able to speak to some of Bishop Dorsonville’s close, personal friends as we were putting together this special edition
of Bayou Catholic magazine and then meet them in person at the celebration. Their testaments speak of a priest and bishop who has “ … a warm heart … a love for service … a deep faith in what he does for the Lord … a great sense of humor … a joyful demeanor … the wisdom of a shepherd … a special love for the priesthood … is compassionate … humble … and whose door is always open to everyone, regardless of their circumstance in life.”
My hope is that all of you, our loyal readers, will take the time to read about your new bishop in this special edition and get to know him a little better through the words of those who know him best.
With much anticipation and gratitude, I welcome you, Bishop Mario Dorsonville, to our diocese. The staff of the Bayou Catholic, which is the official magazine of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux – your magazine – looks
LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC
forward to working with you. I have enjoyed speaking with your friends and reading about you in the articles they shared with our publication. I can’t wait to get to know you and work with you to share your Good News with the people of our great diocese.
Thank you for the enthusiasm, eagerness and joy that you have shown to all of us since your arrival. I pray that you experience that same enthusiasm, eagerness and joy from everyone you encounter as you began your ministry to the people of God in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. BC
Janet Marcel | Editor & General Manager
Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond & Archbishop-Emeritus Alfred C. Hughes
along with the clergy, religious, and laity of the Archdiocese of New Orleans
offer our sincere and heartfelt congratulations to
Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux
of"If we wish to make any progress in the service of God we must begin every day of our life with new eagerness."
- St. Charles Borromeo Patron Saint
Bishops
Cardinals, archbishops, bishops and abbot attend Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville’s Installation Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. Those who came from near and far are Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States; Cardinal Wilton Gregory, Archdiocese of Washington, DC; Cardinal Emeritus Donald Wuerl, Archdiocese of Washington, DC; Archbishop Gregory Aymond, Archdiocese of New Orleans, LA; Archbishop Timothy Broglio, Archdiocese of the U.S. Military, Washington, DC; Archbishop Shelton Fabre, Archdiocese of Louisville, KY; His Grace Archbishop Borys Gudziak, Ph.D., Archdiocese of Philadelphia, PA; Archbishop Emeritus Alfred Hughes, Archdiocese of New Orleans, LA; Archbishop Thomas Rodi, Archdiocese of Mobile, AL; Bishop Emeritus Robert Baker, Diocese of Birmingham, AL; Bishop Mark Brennan, Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, SC; Bishop Kurt Burnette, Diocese of Passaic, NJ; Bishop William Byrne, Diocese of Springfield, MA; Auxiliary Bishop Roy E. Campbell Jr., Archdiocese of Washington, DC; Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Octavio Cisneros, Archdiocese of Brooklyn, NY; Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel, Diocese of Lafayette, LA; Bishop John Dolan, Diocese of Phoenix, AZ; Bishop Michael Duca, Diocese of Baton Rouge, LA; Bishop Jerome Feudjio, Diocese of Saint Thomas, Virgin Islands; Bishop Emeritus Sam Jacobs, Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, LA; Bishop Emeritus Michael Jarrell, Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, LA; Bishop Louis Kihneman II, Diocese of Biloxi, MS; Bishop William Koenig, Diocese of Wilmington, DE; Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Diocese of Jackson, MS; Bishop Steven Lopes, Ordinary of the Chair of Saint Peter; Bishop Francis I. Malone, Diocese of Shreveport, LA; Bishop Robert Marshall Jr., Diocese of Alexandria, LA; Auxiliary Bishop Evelio Menjivar, Archdiocese of Washington, DC; Bishop Emeritus William Muench, Diocese of Baton Rouge, LA; Bishop Glen John Provost, Diocese of Lake Charles, LA; Bishop Steven Raica, Diocese of Birmingham, AL; Bishop John Stowe, Diocese of Lexington, KY; Bishop David Toups, Diocese of Beaumont, TX; Auxiliary Bishop John-Nhan Tran, Archdiocese of Atlanta, GA; Bishop Luis Zarama, Diocese of Raleigh, NC; and Abbot Justin Brown, St. Joseph’s Abbey, LA.
The Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma was standing room only on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, for the episcopal installation of Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.
Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States and papal representative; Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans, installing bishop; two cardinals, five archbishops, 26 bishops, one abbot, approximately 100 clergy, which included priests of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., priest friends of Bishop Dorsonville, deacons, religious, diocesan staff, personal friends of the bishop, and faithful from throughout the diocese were in attendance to witness the installation. An overflow crowd viewed the installation on a projection screen at the Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center in Houma via livestream. The Mass can be viewed here: https://youtube.com/live/ gyPxC1w3aEc.
Lonnie Thibodeaux, director of media and public relations for the Office of the Bishop, welcomed those present explaining that “as successors of the apostles, bishops inherit the mission given to the original apostles by Jesus Christ to teach all nations and preach the Gospel to every creature. Bishops are placed in charge of dioceses to shepherd that portion of the Lord’s flock that is entrusted to their care.”
Thibodeaux expressed gratitude to the Very Rev. Patrick J. (P.J.) Madden, for his leadership during the past year as diocesan administrator and prayed that the Lord will endow Bishop Dorsonville with the spiritual gifts needed to fulfill his role as chief shepherd of our diocese.
Part of the Installation Rite, where the new bishop is introduced into his new cathedral took place prior to the Mass. This moment symbolizes the bishop’s official arrival at the church. Bishop Dorsonville knocked on the front door of the cathedral with a small gold plated hammer, a
gift from his father when he was 15 years old. The bishop was greeted by Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L., past rector, and the cathedral parish pastoral council. Very Rev. Rodrigue presented the bishop with a crucifix, which he kissed and then blessed the people gathered there. Afterwards, Bishop Dorsonville was escorted to the tabernacle to offer a brief prayer before the Mass of Installation.
After the entrance procession, Archbishop Aymond greeted those in attendance. The Rite of Installation began with the reading of the Apostolic Letter by Archbishop Pierre, who then questioned Bishop Dorsonville regarding his willingness to accept the pastoral care of the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. The Apostolic Letter was inspected by the College of Consultors and shown to the people present. The letter was then given to Very Rev. Eric Leyble, judicial vicar, for archiving.
The apostolic nuncio and Archbishop Aymond escorted Bishop a
Dorsonville to the cathedra, the chair from which the bishop exercises his role as teacher of the church. The bishop’s chair is the most ancient symbol of episcopal ministry, signifying the oneness of the people of a diocese with their bishop. Archbishop Aymond presented the crozier to Bishop Dorsonville and he was seated in the cathedra to a roaring round of applause.
The newly installed bishop was then greeted by members of the faithful, representatives of the civil authorities, and ecumenical representatives, who each offered to him some sign of obedience and reverence.
Bishop Dorsonville began his homily by saying how grateful he is for everyone’s kindness in welcoming him to Louisiana and he expressed his gratitude to everyone who was present. He thanked Archbishop Gregory Aymond and Archbishop Christophe Pierre for their guidance during his transition; Cardinals Wilton Gregory and Donald Wuerl for being there for him while he was in the Archdiocese of Washington, Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre of Louisville, KY, for handing him the beautiful Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, and Father Patrick J. (P.J.) Madden for his faithful service as apostolic administrator since April 2022.
“When I learned that the Holy Father had named me bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, I realized that a new chapter of my life had begun, knowing that the book gets better as the chapters go on. Therefore, I put my trust in Jesus Christ, because whenever he gives us a mission, he also gives us the strength to carry it out,” said Bishop Dorsonville.
He went on to say that “a bishop is a shepherd who follows Christ, the Good Shepherd, and leads others to him by word and example of life.” Speaking directly to the presbyterate of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, he said, “As your new shepherd, know that I am close to you in prayer and in my heart, and it is my desire to listen to you and to get to know you. This way we realize that a shepherd who knows the hopes and fears, the joys and sorrows of his priests and the people of his diocese, is a shepherd who sees the face of Jesus Christ in the face of every person in the path we walk together. For this reason, one of the main devotions of my priestly life has been to build up the dignity of the human person, by loving the poor and creating opportunities for each person.”
Bishop Dorsonville concluded his homily by asking those present to always keep him in their prayers and know that from now on they are in his prayers. He then quoted Saint John Paul II about new chapters in our lives. “Let us,” said Saint John Paul II, “remember the past with gratitude, live the present with enthusiasm, and look forward to the future with confidence.”
The Houma-Thibodaux Diocesan Choir provided music for the celebration, under the direction of Dr. John St. Marie, assistant professor of Music and director of Choral Activities at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux. The choir consisted of members from the Nicholls Chamber Choir, Omaggio Community Choir, St. Joseph Co-Cathedral Choir, and many members of other churches in the diocese. Kim Champagne was cantor. Organist David Summers, from St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Baton Rouge, was accompanied by a brass quartet and a string quartet from the Houma-Thibodaux area. The Gospel Choirs from St. Lucy Church in Houma and St. Luke the Evangelist Church in Thibodaux also presented a musical selection during the Mass.
Following the installation, hundreds of people gathered at the Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center for a reception to meet and congratulate the new bishop of Houma-Thibodaux.
On the Monday evening before the installation of Bishop Dorsonvillle as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, the faithful gathered for a Night of Prayer at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux, which consisted of Mass, followed by benediction and exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.
In his homily, Bishop Dorsonville told those present that he was grateful for his appointment as bishop in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and that the faithful will find in him a bishop who is not about himself, but about his flock … his people. He said that the diocese is blessed with a wonderful presbyterate and deacons, but that we need more vocations. “We need shepherds who care about their flock … shepherds who smell like their sheep,” he said.
The St. Joseph Co-Cathedral Choir provided music for the service. Afterwards, a reception sponsored by the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana was held at the Thibodaux Regional Wellness Center in Thibodaux, where Bishop Dorsonville greeted and blessed many guests. BC
Story by Monique V. Albarado ~ Photo by Maegan Martin
In the homey atmosphere of the St. Joseph the Worker Seminarian House of Formation in Thibodaux, Bishop Mario Dorsonville and Very Rev. Patrick J. (P.J.) Madden sat down to engage in conversation ranging from lighthearted to inspired in front of cameras and studio lights recently for the diocesan Office of Communications.
Bishop Dorsonville took Very Rev. Madden through his formative years to the issues which matter greatly to him today as he becomes the shepherd of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.
“I was born in a Catholic family. My dad was French and was a civil engineer. My mom was devoted to raising family which was … myself!” he said with a laugh. Being an only child, Very Rev. Madden teased about him being spoiled rotten. In fact, when he was 12 years old and going to school, he recalled his parents were told that “Mario should be a little more disciplined.”
During his youth, a poster on a wall seeking vocations for the priesthood made a lasting impression as he could not get the question out of his
mind. During a mission trip with seminarians, the young Mario visited a sick woman. She was happy to receive a visit from seminarians. “I showed her a picture of the Blessed Sacrament and she went from happiness to joy.” It was then that he realized “the connection between humanity and God.” At 15, he applied for the seminary and became a priest at 24.
His parent’s reaction to his vocation
Bishop Dorsonville joked that his father thought he’d become an engineer as well, but his father later said, “You will build a bridge from here to heaven.” His father and his mother were silently supportive, described the bishop. “Not too many people thought that I would make it,” he said with a hearty laugh.
His first assignment was South of Bogotá, in the capital city of Colombia, which was a large, busy parish considered the “Cathedral of the Poor.” There, large processions of Our Lady were held through the streets. The parish was called the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
A huge challenge
Bishop Dorsonville was approached about becoming pastor when he was 26 years old. He said he liked the challenge of becoming a pastor. He was sent a picture of an empty field. He was told he needed to build it. In five years, by the time he was 30, the church and rectory were complete.
Moving to the United States Bishop had the opportunity to attend Catholic University in Washington, D.C., to study for his doctorate in ministry.
In keeping with his obedience to the Lord, and something he tells confirmation candidates, “Ask the Lord what does he want you to do because you never know.”
He earned his doctorate in 1996.
“This was the beginning of falling in love with the multicultural aspect of the church” and his works with Hispanic ministry in Washington, D.C.
“There is no worse poverty than a person who doesn’t have faith or a voice,” he stated, adding a quote by Pope Francis, “Let’s move from indifference to solidarity.“ a
Bishop Dorsonville spoke of “Christian passion.” “People don’t expect you to solve all their problems but for you to give them some of your time.”
Bishop Dorsonville worked with the homeless in Washington, D.C., and remembers speaking with a young man who had lost hope and said he was “nobody” when the bishop asked his name.
Of serving those in need, he said, “Don’t close the door. Say ‘Let me make a reference to you. Let me walk with you in this process.’”
His reaction to the papal nuncio’s call
“It was a golden opportunity (to be Bishop of HoumaThibodaux). When you’re serving, it doesn’t matter whom, those in need – families, children, youth, colleges.”
“When God calls you with human instruments, you must be ready. This was a very big surprise in my life,” he said.
Houma-Thibodaux? Where is that?
Bishop recalls being joyful when he received the call from the Archbishop Christophe Pierre, papal nuncio to the United States. “I didn’t hesitate for a moment,” he recalled, even though he had no idea where Houma-Thibodaux was located. “When the pope wants you to do something, you have no real reason to say no,” he emphasized.
He expressed gratitude for every single person who thanked him for saying yes even though they were perhaps wondering, “Who is this Colombian guy?” he said.
Missing his home of 30 years – Washington, D.C.
Amidst his joy, his human feelings are of being uprooted. “It’s painful to say goodbye to people, but if we work well while we are here, we will all be together in heaven.”
Ministries of concentration
Bishop Dorsonville would like to see that young people go back to Mass and attend college and to make sure that the work of Catholic Charities is held up. He spoke of moving human encounters working with those in need and watching others get twice what they went to give when serving others. “It doesn’t matter how many people you serve. It’s how much time you spend.”
When driving out for the press conference at the diocesan Pastoral Center in Schriever when he was first announced Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Bishop Dorsonville noted the devastation of the hurricane to homes. “I want to tell the people who are still struggling, the church is an open door … You are not here by yourself.”
Father Stephen Castille, special assistant to the office of the bishop, was his driver the first day and he quickly demonstrated to Bishop Dorsonville, “Everyone knows who’s who … . It’s a small world but delightful. I like to care and know the people.” Very Rev. Madden, who is originally from Ireland, assured the bishop of the welcoming people in the area from all cultures, which make up the diverse population, largely influenced by the Cajun faith.
Very Rev. Madden told the bishop that “no Cajun loves alligators” because the bishop has been outspoken about his fear of the reptiles. “I will have to get into the culture little by little,” Bishop Dorsonville joked.
Because of a knee injury that happened shortly before his arrival in Louisiana, the bishop has attended some physical therapy sessions in the Thibodaux area. He complimented
the quality of professional help, the spirit of humanity and the generosity of people he has met. “Everyone calls you father, not sir,” he said, approvingly.
For the people
At the time of this interview, Bishop Dorsonville was busy with preparations being made by diocesan staff for his installation. He stated that he wanted the installation to be for the people of Houma-Thibodaux and that music was the main aspect of the Mass for him. “I am a lover of music.” He attended a rehearsal of the choirs and says, “I found myself in tears.”
His hopes
“That God would be recognized through the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. He will appoint us where we need to go.”
The interview ended with the two priests praying the Hail Mary and then Bishop Dorsonville thanking Very Rev. Madden for being a faithful shepherd, for saying yes to the call out of retirement and thanking his brother priests, deacons and religious and sisters.” BC
Most Rev. Mario E. Dorsonville Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux
Blazon
Arms impaled. Dexter: Arms party per fess; in chief per fess Azure and Gules; in chief three fleur-de-lis per fess Or; in base, upon a cross throughout Argent a heart inflamed of the last; to base Azure, a carpenter’s square per chevron between three lilies all Argent. Sinister: Azure, upon a chevron Or, three fleur-de-lis Gules; to chief a crescent amid a semé of twelve stars, six to each side, all Argent; in base a heart inflamed of the second, pierced by two arrows, per saltare of the last.
Significance
The episcopal heraldic achievement, or bishop’s coat of arms, is composed of a shield, which is the central and most important part of the design, a scroll with a motto and external ornamentation.
By heraldic tradition, the arms of the bishop of a diocese, called a “diocesan bishop” or an “ordinary” are joined (impaled) with the arms of his jurisdiction, in this case the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, as seen on the left side of the design.
As a “dual see city diocese,” the arms of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux are composed of two main sections. The upper half of the design is composed of two sections; a blue upper portion containing three gold (yellow) fleurs-delis, to represent the French and FrenchCanadian heritage of the region and a red lower portion that bears a silver (white) cross throughout on which is placed an inflamed gold (yellow) heart to honor Saint Francis de Sales, titular of the Cathedral-Church in the See City of Houma. The lower half of the diocesan arms is composed of a blue field on which is placed a carpenter’s square, to form a chevron, between three lilies, all in silver (white) a classic
representation of Saint Joseph, titular of the Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux.
In designing the shield — the central element in what is formally called the heraldic achievement — a bishop has an opportunity to depict symbolically various aspects of his own life and heritage, and particular elements of Catholic faith and devotion.
On Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville’s personal Coat of Arms, the field of his shield is painted blue (azure), a color long associated with Our Lady. In the center of the shield is a tower painted gold (Or), which is likewise a symbol of the Blessed Mother, who in the Litany of Loreto is invoked as the “Tower of David” and a “House of Gold.”
The tower is charged with a “ChiRho”, an ancient monogram for Our Lord, painted red (gules). It is formed of the two Greek letters — chi, which resembles the Latin letter “X” and rho, which resembles the Latin letter “P” — that begin the Greek form of the title Christos, that is, Christ. The spiritual strength symbolized by the tower has its origin in the grace that comes through Jesus Christ, who is “a tower of salvation” (2 Samuel 22:51), “a strong tower against the enemy” (Psalm 61:3). Taken as a whole, the design thus alludes to the mystery of salvation through the Incarnation of Christ in the womb of the Virgin Mary, and the redemption that Christ won for us through his sacrifice on the Cross.
The tinctures of the Bishop’s coat of arms have another significance: They are the colors to be found in the national flag of the Republic of Colombia. Bishop Dorsonville was born in Bogotá, Colombia, in 1960, and he was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Bogotá in 1985. As an immigrant to the United States himself, throughout his
time in this country he has taken an active role in ministry to immigrants, always mindful of the command of the Lord to welcome the stranger (cf. Matthew 25:35). In 2005, he was named vice president for Mission for Catholic Charities in the archdiocese, and director of the Spanish Catholic Center (Centro Católico Hispano). The open door of the tower on the bishop’s shield also alludes to the welcome the church offers to immigrants in the name of Christ.
The scroll below the shield bears the bishop’s motto: Sacerdos in Aeternum. These words from Psalm 110:4 – “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, ‘You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.’” – are echoed in the Letter to the Hebrews, which applies them to our Lord and his self-sacrifice on the Cross.
Bishop Dorsonville has been involved in the formation of new priests both in Colombia and in the United States, as a professor at the major seminary in Bogotá from 1995 to 1996, and as adjunct spiritual director at Saint John Paul II Seminary in Washington since 2011. Now, by his ordination as a bishop, he receives the fullness of the priesthood of the New Covenant, which he must always exercise in union with Jesus Christ the High Priest.
The shield is ensigned with external elements that identify the bearer as a bishop. A gold processional cross appears behind the shield. The galero or “pilgrim’s hat” is used heraldically in various colors and with specific numbers of tassels to indicate the rank of a bearer of a coat of arms. A bishop uses a green galero with three rows of green tassels. BC
It is an honor to welcome you, Bishop Dorsonville, to Louisiana. As our neighbor, I look forward to working with you to preach and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the faithful of Louisiana. There is a unique and special role of faith intertwined in the culture of our state. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, let us look ahead to working together to foster God’s kingdom here.
The Benedictine Monks of Saint Joseph Abbey extend to you a heartfelt welcome to Louisiana! Through Saint Joseph Seminary College, which we sponsor, we have been honored to serve the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and to collaborate in the ministry of priestly formation. As Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, we look forward to your membership on our Board of Trustees and the unique contributions and insights you will bring. On behalf of our monastic and seminary communities, I assure you of our prayers as you shepherd the church along the bayous of Houma-Thibodaux.
I join the entire Diocese of Lafayette in welcoming Bishop Dorsonville to South Louisiana and the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. It is a wonderful part of the country where you will find people of great faith, a welcoming smile and good food. All of us offer you our love, prayers and support. May your ministry to the wonderful people of Houma-Thibodaux be fruitful and fill you with the satisfaction of knowing you bring the good news of God’s love to all in your diocese. Please know you will always find a ready welcome from all of us in Lafayette. Bienvenue.
Congratulations to Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville on his appointment as Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux. He will find in the diocese a rich deposit of the Catholic faith, a people united by a strong sense of family and community, a vibrant and diverse culture, and exquisite cuisine. I know the faithful of HoumaThibodaux will embrace their new shepherd as quickly as he is certain to embrace them.
Archbishop Emeritus
Alfred C. Hughes
Archdiocese of New Orleans, LA
What a blessing for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and for the Province of New Orleans to receive Bishop Mario Dorsonville as a gift from the Archdiocese of Washington and the Archdiocese of Bogotá, Columbia! He brings many rich gifts in his warm, engaging personality, his deep faith, his experience in pastoral ministry, university level teaching of ethics, seminary spiritual direction, outreach to the needy in Catholic Charities and advocacy for the immigrants and refugees. May God bless Bishop Dorsonville’s new episcopal ministry in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and bless all of us through him.
Bishop Emeritus
Sam G. Jacobs
Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, LA
Welcome, Bishop Mario, to your new diocese. With your French name and Spanish background, you should do well among the Cajun Catholics and Spanish community of our diocese, as well as with those of other backgrounds. I hope you will find your ministry in the land of the bayous as fruitful and effective as I did in my 10 years as ordinary. I pray that God will give you a fresh outpouring of his Spirit as you shepherd us in the years ahead. Multos Annos!
Bishop Emeritus
Michael Jarrell
Diocese of Lafayette, LA
It is with great pleasure that I welcome Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville to his new home in South Louisiana. He brings with him a wealth of experience in a wide variety of church activities. The Holy Spirit has smiled upon the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. May he prosper the work of his good and faithful servant.
Welcome to Louisiana! Congratulations on your appointment by our Holy Father, Pope Francis, as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Since I was ordained a bishop in January 2020, I have worked together with our brother bishops of Louisiana, and I look forward to having you join us as we attempt to bring solidarity to the church and fulfill the mission of proclaiming Christ to all people in the State of Louisiana. Be assured that my prayers are with you as you begin shepherding the people who have been entrusted to your care.
With great joy, I add my voice to the many who are congratulating Bishop Mario Dorsonville and welcoming him to the State of Louisiana! I know that he will be warmly embraced by the faithful of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. In my years as a student at Notre Dame Seminary, I was pleased to meet many of the priests, religious and faithful of the diocese. Bishop Dorsonville will find that the Catholic faith runs deep in those who live along the highways, coastlands and bayous of Terrebonne, Lafourche and St. Mary civil parishes and on Grand Isle. What a great blessing for all!
The Diocese of Lake Charles joins me in welcoming Bishop Dorsonville to Louisiana and the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. We pray that his episcopal ministry will be blessed abundantly as he labors in the vineyard of the Lord. The Diocese of HoumaThibodaux is a very special place for us in Louisiana, and we know that the faithful will make him feel very much at home. May all that he accomplishes be blessed by God for the building up of God’s Kingdom.
Since I was born in Louisiana and grew up in New Orleans and St. James civil parish, it is a special pleasure to welcome Bishop Dorsonville to Louisiana and to the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. His appointment is an obvious recognition of his talents and dedication to ministry. I am confident he will find a readymade home among the people of his new diocese and will come to love them – and they’ll love him back. “The Bayou” has a special sense of place. It embraces newcomers and draws them into a “joie de vivre” of faith and community. So, Bishop Dorsonville, congratulations and welcome to your new home!
Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory
Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.
The Archdiocese of Washington now presents a great gift to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux through the appointment of Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville as the new shepherd of that local church. We thank Pope Francis for appointing Bishop Dorsonville first to serve us as an auxiliary bishop and now to bring his many talents in service to the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. May the Lord abundantly bless him and his new family of faith.
Most Rev. Christophe Pierre
Apostolic Nuncio to the United States of America
As the personal representative of his holiness Pope Francis to the United States of America, I would like to congratulate Bishop Mario Dorsonville on his appointment as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Bishop Dorsonville, I can assure you of the spiritual closeness and paternal affection of the Holy Father. I know that your pastoral heart, which has led you to give such generous service in the Archdiocese of Washington as both priest and bishop, will find opportunities for humble service to the people of your new diocese. Félicitations et bonne chance!
Most. Rev. Roy E. Campbell Jr.
Auxiliary Bishop
Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.
I have known Bishop Mario Dorsonville for many years, but I have worked closely with him for the past six past years in the Archdiocese of Washington. He is a man of intelligence, but humble; possessing great energy, but able to put others at ease; and he has a good sense of humor.
Bishop Mario is truly dedicated to using his God-given gifts of compassion, understanding, and giving of himself to everyone he works with. He reaches out in humble service to those seeking refuge and a better life in our community.
This desire to serve, to care, to love, is what Bishop Mario brings with him to give the faithful in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. I truly believe that these qualities will endear Bishop Mario to the faithful of his new diocese, as it will you to him. What a blessing this appointment is!
Most Rev. Shelton J. Fabre Archdiocese of Louisville, KY
With great joy, I thank God for Pope Francis’ appointment of Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in Louisiana! I rejoice with the dear clergy, religious and lay faithful of the diocese on this appointment and join with them in praying for their new bishop. I know that Bishop Dorsonville will experience the same warm Cajun welcome and love, support and kindness that I experienced from the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, which holds a special place in my heart. I pray in a special way for God’s blessings on Bishop Dorsonville and the people he will serve. May God grant to all his blessings and peace! Congratulations Bishop Dorsonville! Congratulations Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux!
On behalf of the faculty, staff and seminarians of Notre Dame Seminary, and in my own name as Rector, I offer our sincerest congratulations to you on your appointment as Fifth Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux. The diocese is blessed to have a shepherd with a joyful and loving heart modeled after the Sacred Heart of the Good Shepherd. May the Lord bless your apostolic ministry and the flock entrusted to your pastoral care.
Most Rev. David L. Toups Diocese of Beaumont, TX
Congratulations dear Bishop Mario Dorsonville on your appointment to the great Diocese of Houma Thibodaux! Since the first bishop of your new diocese came from Beaumont, our beloved Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux, and the Sixth Bishop of Beaumont grew up in Houma, our dioceses are intimately linked. The faithful of Southeast Texas sends all of our prayers and support to the faithful of Southeast Louisiana. You have received a great new loving shepherd, and I know you will give him a big warm Cajun welcome!
1960 – Born on Oct. 31 in Bogotá, Colombia.
1985 – Ordained to the priesthood on Nov. 23 in Bogotá.
1986 – Parochial vicar of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Bogotá.
1987-91 – Pastor of San José de Calasanz Parish, Bogotá.
1987-88 – Chaplain of Our Lady of Consolation High School, Archdiocese of Bogotá.
1988-91 – Associate chaplain of the National University of Colombia, Bogotá.
1989-91 – Earned Licentiate of Sacred Theology degree, Xavier Pontifical University, Bogotá.
1992-96 – Earned Doctor of Ministry degree, Catholic University of America, Washington.
1992-94 – Visiting priest for the Hispanic community, Diocese of Arlington.
1995-96 – Chaplain of the National University of Colombia, Bogotá.
1995-96 – Professor of business ethics at the National University of Colombia, Bogotá and at Xavier Pontifical University, Bogotá.
1995-96 – Professor of pastoral counseling at major seminary of Archdiocese of Bogotá.
1997-2004 – Parochial vicar, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Bethesda.
1999 – Incardinated as a priest of the Archdiocese of Washington.
2004-05 – Parochial vicar, St. Mark the Evangelist Church, Hyattsville.
2005-13 – Director of the Spanish Catholic Center, Archdiocese of Washington.
2011-15 – Adjunct spiritual director at the Saint John Paul II Seminary of the Archdiocese of Washington.
2013-15 – Vice president for mission, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington.
2015 – Pope Francis names him as an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Washington on March 20.
2015 – Ordained as an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Washington, on April 20 at the Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle in Washington, D.C.
2023 – Pope Francis names him the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux on Feb. 1.
2023 – Installed as Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux on Wednesday, March 29, at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.
(Information courtesy of The Catholic Standard) BC
Bishop Mario Dorsonville’s native country is Colombia, officially known as the Republic of Colombia, and located in the northwestern part of South America. It was named after explorer Christopher Columbus.
It is the fourth largest country in country in South America (after Brazil, Argentina and Peru), as is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north, Panama to the northwest, the Pacific Ocean to the west, Ecuador and Peru to the south, and Brazil and Venezuela to the east.
Spanish and English are both official languages of Colombia, however there are more than 85 other recognized regional languages spoken by ethnic and indigenous groups in the country.
With an estimated population of 51.52 million people, Colombia has the second largest population in South America. While many refer to its capital as Bogotá, the official name of the city is Santa Fe de Bogotá. About one-fifth of the country’s population is centered in and around the capital city.
Catholicism was brought to Colombia in 1508, and about 69 percent of the people are Roman Catholic. Other Christian groups make up about 18 percent of the population. Indigenous religions, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam each have 1 percent of the population as followers.
Archbishop Luis Jośe Rueda Aparicio is the archbishop of Bogotá, having been appointed by Pope Francis in 2020.
The country has 13 archdioceses and 52 dioceses.
More than 120 different men’s and women’s religious orders serve in the country, staffing parishes and running hospitals, schools, orphanages, colleges and universities.
(The country’s statistics were updated as of March 31, 2023.) BC
The staff of Bayou Catholic looks forward to spreading your message of Good News throughout this great diocese as you embark on your episcopacy.
Photos of Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, page 32, clockwise from left: A kindergarten student at Our Lady of Mercy School in Bogotá, Colombia; Mario Dorsonville’s first Communion photo; at age 18, accepted into major seminary, joined by his parents, Leonor María and Carlos Dorsonville, and by Cardinal MunozDuque of Bogotá; being vested as a deacon by his mentor, Bishop Luis Gabriel Romero-Franco, the seminary’s rector. Page 33, clockwise from left: As chaplain at the National University of Colombia; Bishop Dorsonville celebrating a Mass for victims of an apartment explosion in Silver Spring, MD; Cardinal Donald Wuerl ordains new Washington Auxiliary Bishop Mario Dorsonville during an April 20 Mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle; Cardinal Wuerl and tenor Placido Domingo share a laugh with Father Dorsonville at a gala for the Spanish Catholic Center, which the priest led from 2005-13; a priest portrait taken while working on his doctorate degree at The Catholic University of America in the mid-1990s.
I have been a priest for 50 years this May and am now the president and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington. Catholic Charities is a large agency in the Washington area, and we believe we are the most comprehensive social services agency in the region. We do our very best to serve all the needs that come our way. We help people with disabilities, the homeless, people who need medical and dental care, refugees and immigrants, people who are hungry, those seeking employment, and anyone else who comes to us.
I have known your new bishop, Mario E. Dorsonville, for over 30 years. He came to the United States as a young priest from Bogotá, Colombia, having just arrived in our country with the hope of studying for his doctorate at the Catholic University of America (CUA). He was living at another parish where the major language spoken was Spanish, and one of his friends called me to see if he could live with us in our parish, which had a very small Latino population.
He then arrived at Our Lady of Mercy in Potomac, where I was pastor, and was with me there for three years. During that time, he learned English while completing his doctorate at CUA. Since then, we’ve been wonderful friends, spending time together in our ministry. I’ve watched him continue to grow in his ability to help and support people in need. From 2005 to 2015, Bishop Dorsonville served as director of the Spanish Catholic Center (SCC), a division of Catholic Charities here in Washington. As director of the SCC,
the bishop became a favorite in the Latino community because of his love for his Spanish heritage and his desire to serve those who are most in need.
It was in 2015 that he was called to be an auxiliary bishop here in Washington. At that point, he transitioned from the SCC to working for the cardinal and the archdiocese as a whole.
Last night, Bishop Dorsonville was here at our parish, St. Bartholomew’s in Bethesda, MD, where I live in residence. He celebrated Mass with the Latino community for the last time. It is a very large group of 200+ people who come to celebrate the Eucharist, and Bishop Dorsonville has been here to celebrate the Liturgy many times before. After the Mass last night, there was a farewell party for him.
Watching the people with him was special. He loves them so much and they love him so much. It was great to see so many gathered to say goodbye and to show him how much he’s appreciated. The staff at Catholic Charities in Washington loves him too, and that is true of all who know him throughout the archdiocese.
The bishop has a warm heart, a love for service, a true and deep faith in what he does for the Lord. He loves to laugh, and he enjoys the friendship that comes with spending time together with both laity and other priests. His ability to say “yes” to those in need and to find a way to serve those who come for assistance is legendary in our diocese. He is a great friend to thousands of people here in Washington and will be a loving and compassionate friend to the people of his new diocese.
The bishop said of his new assignment, “I come to continue the process of rebuilding, the process of being better, and the process to be there as an instrument of Jesus Christ in the lives of those who are suffering. We will walk together finding the voice of the Holy Spirit that will let us know what are the paths we will take.”
I will miss Bishop Dorsonville, my very good friend. I have enjoyed
watching him grow in his ministry to the Lord. Take good care of him. He deserves all the love and respect you can give. He will serve the pastoral needs of your local church as well as the personal needs of so many who will come his way.
May God bless Bishop Mario, bless all those he serves, and all those who come requesting assistance in your diocese. I wish the people of HoumaThibodaux only the best. You have a wonderful new shepherd who will care deeply for you and for the needs of the church.
May God bless his ministry in Louisiana and bless all those who come his way for service, care and support in the diocese in which he soon will be the chief shepherd, the one who calls you and calls all of us to a greater relationship with God and an even greater commitment to the programs of charity and service in our midst.
(Msgr. John J. Enzler is the president and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.) BC
“You have to meet Mario!” My pastor enthusiastically said when I told him about my plans in 2016 to work with Catholic schools. My foundation, Crimsonbridge, had just launched the Education Imperative which supports dioceses, schools and families in actively engaging the Hispanic community and increasing enrollment in Catholic schools. We were searching for guidance and expertise on how to partner with the Archdiocese of Washington (ADW). With such an enthusiastic recommendation, off I went, intrigued and a bit nervous, because “Mario” had just become none other than our new auxiliary bishop.
Known for his warmth and approachability, Bishop Mario Dorsonville is loved by every community he serves. I had first heard about his pastoral work at Our Lady of Lourdes, a local parish here in Maryland, and his dedication and fundraising efforts for Catholic Charities and the Spanish Catholic Center in the nation’s capital. I had heard he was a man of deep faith, prayer, and had a warm devotion to Mary. When I met him along with my team, we were struck by his joyful kindness and sense of humor. We asked how we should address him - bishop, father, excellency, Mario - and with what I like to call his “big laughter,” he said whatever we wanted was welcome. So, we opted for “Bishop,” not realizing he was becoming our bishop, and that was the beginning of a transformative work partnership and
enduring friendship.
Over the last seven years, my foundation has had the honor of working closely with Bishop Dorsonville, and together with the archdiocese, we have seen the work flourish and continue to expand. Our Education Imperative, which seeks to increase Latino enrollment in Catholic schools to be reflective of the parishes’ increasing diversity, has reached thousands of families. Through our programs, which provide professional development and resources for schools to successfully welcome, enroll and retain Latino students, the ADW has increased Hispanic enrollment from nine to 16 percent, supporting the financial sustainability of Catholic schools, community participation in parochial life, and evangelization. None of this would have been possible without Bishop Dorsonville’s advocacy
and the dedicated work of the ADW.
In a city famous for networking, Bishop has a unique gift for connecting people. His love of life is contagious and as a result he especially seeks to work with young adults. By organizing homeless outreach missions, annual Christmas carols, and regular dinners, he helps Catholic professionals meet each other over meaningful spiritual formation. The friendships he has formed and helped create are genuine and multi-generational. Here in the Washington area, he’s celebrated the weddings of dozens of young Catholics he introduced, baptized their children, and watched them grow up. I can speak firsthand – he introduced my oldest daughter to her husband, who are now expecting their first child!
Something I admire about Bishop is his deep connection with the communities he serves and his
enormous heart. As a fellow Hispanic myself, having lived in the U.S. most of my life, I can appreciate his innate connection to the Hispanic community, and understanding of the diversity that exists within that community, which is as varied as the many countries of heritage it represents. He also has a natural openness and respect for what it means to belong to a community. He appreciates the rich diversity that exists in the Nation’s Capital and across the country. No surprise he’s been the head of the office of Cultural Diversity and Outreach at the ADW!
I had the privilege of serving with him on the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration and Refugee Services, where he has been the chairman for three years tirelessly working to advance the mission of the Catholic Church. When required by his mission, he can walk the halls of Congress and advocate for the needy with diplomacy, humility, and the authority of a servant leader –selflessly focused on the people he represents. At the same time, he can also walk the streets of Washington in tireless service of the homeless, hungry and marginalized.
Until I met Bishop, I didn’t realize how important it is for religious leaders to mentor and guide those growing in their vocational journey. He cares deeply about the young seminarians discerning their vocation, learning and growing in their call to be disciples. He regularly visits our different Catholic communities, sisters and brothers in religious life, across our more than 160 parishes.
He has the heart of a pastor and the wisdom of a shepherd. Bishop Dorsonville teaches by example and finds joy in all circumstances. His moral compass gives him both a local and a global understanding of what it means to be part of one church.
So now in March 2023, this is my symbolic friendly handoff of our Bishop.
Godspeed, dear Bishop, thank you for your 30 years of faithful service and leadership in the ADW. Your work and example are deeply appreciated and will continue to grow and expand. The friendships you have formed will endure. You will be far but just a prayer away.
Friends of Houma Thibodeaux, we are so happy Bishop Dorsonville is being welcomed by such a warm spiritual
family. He is a faithful disciple of Christ and a servant leader. We can’t wait to hear about his work, deeds, and new friendships here in his new home!
(Gabriela Smith is the Founder and Executive Chair of The Crimsonbridge Foundation, www.crimsonbridge.org.) BC
Passionate in Christ … compassionate with all … a great sense of humor … humble and accessible to one and all, despite their circumstances in life …
This is Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville – as described by George Kappaz, a long-time friend.
Kappaz has no trouble introducing Bishop Dorsonville to the people of Houma-Thibodaux. He and his wife, Amarie, who live just outside of Washington, D.C., have known Bishop Dorsonville for well over 15 years. Kappaz says that he was introduced to him by his father when he brought then-Father Dorsonville to his home.
“We immediately hit it off and have likewise become very close friends. My parents have known him for about 20 years. He and my father became quite close friends, and Bishop Dorsonville has been a great source of strength and joy in my very large, extended family’s life since my father’s passing 10 years ago,” says Kappaz.
He adds that his mother, all his brothers and sisters and their respective families consider Bishop Dorsonville to be a “treasured blessing” to their family.
When asked what he believes will make Bishop Dorsonville a good bishop for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, he mentions a “true dedication to his flock – near and far.”
“This is a bishop, priest and man who deeply cares about those all around him – whether parishioners, those in need (spiritually or materially), and whether well-known to him or even those many unknown to him that benefit from his caring hand. This is truly a man of service to God and the community.”
He shares, “He will become one with the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux and the diocese with him, I’m sure.”
Kappaz further assures, “Bishop Dorsonville is humble and accessible, and the people of Houma-Thibodaux will find in him a pastor whose door is always open, regardless of one’s circumstances – poor, wealthy, well-dressed, shabbily dressed, outgoing or shy. It matters not.”
A businessman who travels extensively from his home
near Washington, D.C., to Europe, the Far East and South America, Kappaz speaks to Bishop Dorsonville nearly every week and has become accustomed to sharing family meals as their schedules permit. Sometimes the meals are homecooked meals and other times, formal affairs.
“The best times are those quiet moments spent together in deep and meaningful conversations about God and life in general.”
Bishop Dorsonville is known to have a love of Kappaz’s wife’s paella and he believes the bishop will experience a similar love for the many Cajun and Creole dishes our area has to offer him.
The Kappaz family has mixed feelings about the bishop’s new assignment as they will miss visiting him as often, however, Kappaz concludes, “We are overjoyed that the Holy Father has given him the leadership of your diocese, and that more of the world will now get to experience the wonderful presence that is Bishop Mario Dorsonville!” BC
Bishop Dorsonville is humble and accessible, and the people of Houma-Thibodaux will find in him a pastor whose door is always open.
When I arrived in Bishop Mario Dorsonville’s office at the Archdiocese of Washington’s Pastoral Center for an interview a few days after Pope Francis had appointed him to become the new bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, he already had displayed a “Beware of Alligators” sign and a small toy alligator that one of his D.C. colleagues had jokingly given him.
At his introductory press conference at his Louisiana diocese on Feb. 1, Bishop Dorsonville – an auxiliary bishop in Washington since 2015 –smiled and noted that he had been alerted about a few alligators living near the diocesan headquarters there.
Bishop Dorsonville, who with his sense of humor embodies what Pope Francis calls the “joy of the Gospel,”
laughed as he told me, “The alligators once in a while, they come from the swamp, and they go to the parking lot, and they like to take the sun. And there are several of them, just in front of my office.”
Washington, where he has served as a priest and later a bishop since 1999, is known as a swamp, but he never had to dodge sun-bathing alligators before. I recommended that he have his new priest secretary check that the coast is clear whenever he arrives at or leaves the Pastoral Center in HoumaThibodaux.
But on a serious note, the bishop spoke about getting the phone call about his new appointment, and he said there was no question about his response to the papal nuncio, which he said reflected his priestly call to be open to wherever God might send him.
“You learn from Mary to be open and to say ‘yes’ all the time, even though it might be hard to leave the people you love, you know the Lord wants you to go to the place where they need you,” he said.
At a farewell Mass of Thanksgiving on March 3 that Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory celebrated for Bishop Dorsonville, Houma-Thibodaux’s new bishop spoke about the importance of closing chapters in one’s life and moving on to the next chapter. “The book gets better, and that’s extremely important to realize that,” he said.
Bishop Dorsonville said that when he was first appointed, he was concerned that it might take him some months to get used to his new diocese, but he said that after arriving there and meeting the people in Houma-Thibodaux, he felt at home right away in his new family of
faith. He had called the cardinal after his first day there and told him, “Your Eminence, I am already here, (and) I love it.”
Thanking the people of the Archdiocese of Washington, the bishop noted that when you love someone, no matter the distance you are apart, even at different coasts, you will always be together.
As a writer and editor for the Catholic Standard newspaper of the Archdiocese of Washington, I’ve had the chance to chronicle different chapters of Father and then Bishop Dorsonville’s life.
For a 2001 vocations article when he was serving as a parochial vicar at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Bethesda, Father Dorsonville told a story about when he was a high school minor seminary student in his native Colombia, and he rode on horseback for five hours to take Communion to a sick woman living on a mountain. When he arrived at her home, her eyes shone with a love he would never forget. “She was full of joy, not just because of me, but what I brought to her life, Jesus Christ.”
That, said Father Dorsonville, is the essence of every vocation in the Catholic Church, bringing Christ to others.
After being ordained as a priest in Colombia in 1985, he served as a parish priest and high school and college chaplain there before becoming a priest of the Archdiocese of Washington in 1999 after he had come to the nation’s capital to earn a doctorate degree in ministry at The Catholic University of America.
Father Dorsonville, whose father was a civil engineer, said as a priest he saw himself as a bridge builder, helping to unite his parish’s English and Spanishspeaking communities.
A vocation, he said, “is a gift you receive,” a gift that he said he was happy to share.
Then in 2010, I interviewed Father Dorsonville when he was serving as the vice president of mission and director of immigrant and refugee services for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese
of Washington. He said he regarded the Spanish Catholic Center, with its chapel, as holy ground offering Christ’s love and hope to the people who came there for medical or dental care or for employment or immigration services. The priest said he witnessed God’s grace every day as the staff and volunteers there helped those in need.
Speaking at his 2015 ordination as an auxiliary bishop of Washington, Bishop Dorsonville noted “a continual invitation is coming from Pope Francis to all of us; let’s move from a culture of indifference to a culture of acceptance. By serving the poor, the voiceless and the invisible, we will always be enriched by God’s love.”
The new bishop said that when he himself came to the United States as an immigrant studying at Catholic University and at first not knowing the English language, “I was scared … However, I understood God had a plan for me.”
Later when Bishop Dorsonville served as the chairman of the Committee on Migration of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, he emphasized the importance of people opening their hearts to the world’s migrants and refugees, and to follow Pope Francis’ call to accompany
those in need. The bishop shared that message at Masses and when testifying for immigration reform before congressional committees.
The bishop also lived that message, going on one Sunday a month with a group of Catholic young adults to bring supplies like food and sleeping bags to the homeless in Washington, D.C., and more importantly, treating them as friends, learning their names and praying with them.
And as a new chapter in his life began on Feb. 1 when he was named as the new bishop of Houma-Thibodaux where he was installed on March 29 at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Bishop Dorsonville spoke about continuing his priestly ministry of bringing Christ to others.
“I am one with you. I am one for you,” he said at his introductory press conference. “I pledge my time, my care, my devotion and my love as a shepherd to be the instrument to bring Jesus Christ in your life.”
And at the end he joked, “Please pray for me, and if anyone knows how to avoid alligators, please let me know!”
(Mark Zimmermann is the editor of the Catholic Standard newspaper and website of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington.) BC
Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, and our Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, have presented the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux with a beautiful gift just in time for Holy Week. Your new Bishop, Mario Dorsonville, will arrive in time to walk with you in preparation for Easter. I know your Easter will be especially meaningful this year with your new bishop.
I am so happy for you all to have such a wonderful bishop. My family and I have known Bishop Dorsonville for nearly 20 years. He has been with us to celebrate our happiest times and he has accompanied us through times of sorrow. I am sad to see him move, but I am also overjoyed to know he will be with you to share in your highest and lowest moments. Bishop Dorsonville is a good shepherd, and he is always close to his people.
I first met the bishop when he was a priest in Washington, D.C. I was a board member of a social service agency of the Archdiocese of Washington called El Centro Católico Hispano. We were conducting interviews to hire an executive director. I had a long wish list of qualifications – almost like a Mary Poppins list. I told my friends it was an aspirational list, but I was sure the archdiocese didn’t have any priest that could fulfill each requirement. We gathered in the interview room and Father Dorsonville walked in. As soon as I saw him, I knew he would be the perfect fit for the assignment. My
prayers were answered when Father Dorsonville accepted the position.
Father Dorsonville immediately brought warmth and professionalism to the Centro. He quickly assembled volunteers from the Order of Malta to paint the complete interior of the main location of the Centro. His first goal was to reorganize and beautify the Centro’s Chapel. Attendance at daily Mass at the Centro increased straight away. Father Dorsonville’s office was on the top floor, but he spent the majority of those early days in the clinics and social service offices greeting patients and getting to know the Centro staff. His joyful demeanor was infectious. Father Dorsonville spread joy throughout the three locations of the Centro and even to the government officials who regulated it. Father Dorsonville came to be loved and respected by the Centro’s staff and clients.
The Centro Católico Hispano of Washington had always been a special place, welcoming all for care without regard to need, creed or origin. It was founded in 1967 to care for and help immigrants and refugees beginning their lives anew in Washington, D.C., and its Maryland suburbs. Over the years, six priests who headed the Centro became bishops, and two of them are now cardinals. It was therefore no surprise that Father Dorsonville was
appointed bishop 10 years after he took on leadership of the Centro.
Father Dorsonville drew volunteers of all ages to the Centro Católico. Over the years all of our children volunteered under Father Dorsonville’s watch at the Centro. The older ones would go to the food banks to collect groceries for Wednesday distribution and the younger ones would pack the individual bags. They learned from Father Dorsonville the importance of hands-on service to those in need, and through his example they also developed a love of the Spanish language and Latin American culture.
Bishop Dorsonville is a natural born teacher, and a demanding one. He teaches his volunteers not only the task at hand but also the life lessons of being careful, thoughtful, working with purpose, the importance of being responsible and being on time.
The bishop has a special love for the priesthood. He is a priest’s priest. He enjoyed his work at our archdiocese’s newest seminary, spending time with the seminarians and serving as a spiritual director for them. I know he is responsible for a number of priestly vocations and is proud to be the spiritual godfather of many young priests.
Bishop Dorsonville’ s mom came to be my friend. Doña Leonor, as she was known in Washington, was an elegant, kind and faithful woman. She shared her
great devotion to Saint Ann with me. Doña Leonor counseled me to ask this wonderful saint for favors for our five children. She told me, “Michele, you know it will be difficult for Jesus to say no to his dear grandmother. Pray to Saint Ann when your children need jobs, spouses or when they face difficult times. She will help you.” To this day, I always think of Doña Leonor when I ask for the intercession of St. Ann. I add an extra prayer for her soul and for the wonderful son she raised.
The word that comes to mind in describing Bishop Dorsonville is “joy.” His smile and warmth are infectious. He has made friends across the Archdiocese of Washington from every walk of life. I have no doubt that he will do the same in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.
We will miss Bishop Dorsonville. But it helps to know how much he is looking forward to getting to know you all. I know that the bishop will miss his many friends and admirers in the Archdiocese of Washington. I don’t think he will miss the traffic and cold weather.
I keep you all in prayer as you prepare to welcome your new bishop in time for Easter.
(Michele Burke Bowe is the Sovereign Order of Malta Ambassador to the State of Palestine.) BC
I met Father Mario in 2000 when he was assigned to Our Lady of Lourdes parish in Bethesda, MD. A mutual friend John Kiyonaga introduced us one evening while they were having dinner. Over the next year or so, I saw Father Mario a few times, on social occasions. But it was at Noon Mass on Sept. 14, 2001, that I got to know the real Father Mario.
This was first public Mass following the attack on the World Trade Centers, the Pentagon and Shanksville. Our Lady of Lourdes church was jammed packed with more than 500 in the church and many more persons standing at the doorway and steps. Everyone was still in shock from the events of 9/11 and the fact that our country had been attacked.
Father Mario is said to have a strong Spanish accent. But on this day, Father Mario’s Mass and his homily were so moving, that so many in attendance heard only a comforting and eloquent delivery, without any accent detected. Father Mario gave a feeling of hope and a secure feeling that the tragedy which shook the soul of everyone, would give us the strength to overcome the attack. He led us in prayer for the souls of the
more than 3,000 persons who were killed, and I know that so many of the persons who came to that Mass, will always remember Father Mario that day.
Over the last 20 years I have been a witness to all the wonderful occasions where Father Mario has had a profound effect on the people he touched. He has been the head of the Spanish Catholic Center in Washington reaching out to better the lives of so many immigrants who have come to Washington to seek a better life. His work at the various parishes he served and work with Catholic Charities led to Pope Francis appointing him as an auxiliary bishop
in the Archdiocese of Washington.
His works led to his being the named the Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Migration.
While I am happy that he has been selected to be the Bishop of HoumaThibodaux, I will miss our quarterly Irish dinners we have enjoyed for the past 15 years. I look forward to visiting Houma-Thibodaux and trying some of the local Cajun dishes with my old friend Bishop Mario.
(J. Paul McNamara is the chairman of Potomac Capital Advisors in Bethesda, MD.) BC
Very Rev. Jay L. Baker, J.C.L. Chancellor Reverendisimo Padre: when I first heard that you would be coming to us as our Fifth Shepherd, I immediately recognized your motto – “A Priest Forever” – from the responsorial psalm of the day. Ever since then, I have used that psalm as my prayer for you in this time of transition. The epistle for that same day – from the Letter to the Hebrews – likewise spoke of Melchizedek just as it did for the two days that followed. Suffice it to say, the very Scriptures have me well-prepared for your arrival. ¡Bienvenido a la familia, Reverendisimo Padre!
William J. (Bill) Barbera Chief Operating & Financial Officer
Welcome to our diocese, Bishop Dorsonville! You are about to embark on a journey as the shepherd of people filled with love, compassion and dedication to our faith and our fellow man. We take care of each other, regardless of race, political or economic standing. The incredible generosity of time, talent and treasure toward the mission of the church is unwavering. We will support you with our unique hospitality and walk with you in faith to become one of our own. Welcome to Bayou Country!
Religious Bishop Dorsonville, welcome to the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. I look forward to meeting you and visiting with you. It is with great anticipation that we looked forward to meeting you and welcoming you into the diocese. I missed greeting you when you visited earlier, as I was out of the office with COVID-19 and did not want to spread my germs. I am well now and counting the days when you return to what will become your new home. Blessings, prayers and welcome.
Very Rev. Vicente DeLa Cruz, V.F. M.C.L., J.C.L. Vicar for Clergy
On behalf of the Upper (North) Lafourche Deanery and as the Coordinator for Clergy of the diocese, I would like to extend a warm southern hospitality welcome to Bishop Mario Dorsonville as he takes possession of our humble diocese. We have been blessed with good local shepherds these past 45 years and God continues to bless us with a new local shepherd. At his press conference Feb. 1, Bishop Dorsonville declared to “pledge my time, my care, my devotion and my love as a shepherd to be the instrument to bring Jesus Christ in your life.” As your co-workers in ministry in the vineyard of the Lord, we too pledge to your excellency, our resolve to remain in “Communion” with our good shepherd and “Participate” in listening to the Holy Spirit so that together, we all can lead God’s people in fulfilling the “Mission” of the church. Bienvenu à Houma-Thibodaux!
It is my delight to welcome Bishop Mario Dorsonville to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. I am grateful to the Holy Father for his fatherly concern for our diocese and for not leaving us orphans for a very long time. I look forward to working with
the bishop in furthering the ministry of mercy and justice in the Tribunal and in service to canon law. Together with Veronica Songe, our Tribunal specialist and the judges, I pledge my continued support of Bishop Dorsonville and I assure him of our prayers as he begins his ministry in our diocese.
Very Rev. Andre Melancon, V.F.
Dean of the Terrebonne Deanery
What a joy to welcome you Bishop Dorsonville as the Fifth Bishop of our diocese! I can promise you that our people are praying for you and are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to meet you. You will find in the bayous of Houma Thibodaux a people with a deep love for Christ and his church. I pray that you will quickly feel at home and surrounded by family. We are with you! Welcome! Bienvenu! Bienvenido!
Very Rev. John Nambusseril, V.F.
Dean of the South Lafourche Deanery
Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, it is my privilege as dean of the South Lafourche Deanery and pastor of Our Lady of Prompt Succor (OLOPS) to extend the heartfelt congratulations to you on behalf of all the faithful at OLOPS for being appointed as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux! May the Triune God give you all the strength and joy you need for this very important ministry in the church! I am sure you have generously given of your time and insight, with enthusiastic and highly profiled contributions, sharing the spiritual and moral vision of the church in all your ministries. Your friendship, pastoral visits and support to our parish would be a great gift to us, and we rejoice in thanksgiving for the blessings of your life and we look forward to that great day of your installation as bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Congratulating you once again and commending you to the care and protection of God almighty and Mary our Mother. Yours in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Prayerful best wishes and congratulations to our dear friend
His Excellency
Most Reverend Mario E. Dorsonville
on his installation as the Fifth Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux
from the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
America’s Catholic Church
Reverend Monsignor Walter R. Rossi Rector Clergy, Religious, and Staff
Welcome Bishop Dorsonville on behalf of the clients and staff of Assisi Bridge House! The mission of Assisi Bridge House is to assist men to recover from substance use disorders in a long-term residential setting. We pray that you will find the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux a most welcoming home, and we look forward to welcoming you for a tour of our house.
Gina Allemand, director
Lumen Christi Retreat Center
Lumen Christi Retreat Center would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and welcome Bishop Mario Dorsonville to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. As the Fifth Bishop in our diocese, we look forward to many years of your guidance and wisdom. We offer you our prayers and support in your new appointment.
Holly Becnel, director Office of Technology Services
Welcome to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux from the Office of Technology Services— Jon Paul Olivier and Mary Kees. We pray that you quickly feel at home, here in our South Louisiana bayous, soon to be yours, too! Know that we are here to help you with all things technology and whatever else you may need. We welcome you with open arms and open hearts. Best regards.
Kayla Brunet, director Cemeteries OfficeCongratulations Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville on your appointment as Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. On behalf of the Office of Cemeteries we would like to welcome you to our diocese. We will be praying that you have a smooth transition and find much joy in your new home.
Deacon Stephen Brunet director
Permanent Diaconate
Mere words could never explain the gratitude and admiration we deacons of the diocese have for our beloved bishops. We look forward with much hope and joy as together we serve the people of our diocese under your leadership and guidance. As we look forward to working with you here in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, we will pray for the people of the Archdiocese of Washington as, “Their loss is our gain.” The people of our diocese will soon discover a kind, compassionate and comforting man in you, our new bishop. May God continue to bless you with health of mind, body and spirit as you begin this new chapter and always know of our prayers for you and the people you serve.
James (Jimmie) Danos directorBuilding and Construction
The Office of Building and Construction extends a warm welcome to Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, as he assumes his leadership position as the Fifth Shepherd of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. The office’s director and staff look forward to working for and under the leadership of Bishop Dorsonville as we continue the ongoing process of restoring the numerous Hurricane Ida damaged parish and diocesan buildings.
David Dawson, director
Office of Parish Support
Bishop Dorsonville, we in the Office of Parish Support—
Father Patrick Riviere, Rebecca Abboud, Joseph Klapatch and Stephen Estes—are so grateful to have you as our shepherd, and we can’t wait to get to know you and work closely with you. We are praying for you as you begin to make Bayou Country your home!
Father Glenn LeCompte director
Office of Worship
Michelle LeBlanc, director
Archives & Records Center
The Office of Archives and Records welcomes Bishop Mario Dorsonville as our Fifth Bishop. May your time as our bishop be blessed and joyous! We pray for the Holy Spirit to unite our diocese and for peace, unity and the strength to rebuild our faith and physical communities. Welcome to Bayou Country!
The Office of Worship warmly welcomes Bishop Mario Dorsonville to our diocese. We look forward to working with Bishop Dorsonville as the diocese moves forward under his guidance. As the diocesan bishop he is the chief liturgist, and as such is responsible for the liturgical life of the faithful of the diocese. The Office of Worship stands ready to advise and assist him in helping all our people to express by means of sacramental celebrations the faith that lives within their hearts. Bishop Dorsonville, may the Holy Spirit enrich you with the wisdom necessary to be a good teacher, administrator and leader of prayer.
April LeBouef, director
Office of Finance and Accounting
The Office of Finance and Accounting (OFA) extends a warm welcome to Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. As our new shepherd, the OFA staff looks forward to working with you to continue our office’s mission of being “of service to the parishes, schools and agencies of the diocese” and “safeguarding the gifts of treasure entrusted to us by the people of the diocese.” Please know that you are in our prayers!
Welcome to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Bishop Dorsonville! The team in the Office of Communications— Monique Albarado, Connor Mabile, Alaina Maiorana and Janet Marcel—is looking forward to working alongside you in the mission of communicating the Gospel of our Lord, Jesus Christ to the people of this great diocese. We are praying for you! Welcome to the family!
The Diocese of HoumaThibodaux is made up of people of many cultures. It is my wish that you experience these cultures as you journey through this diocese and celebrate the unique lifestyle of our area. Welcome to HoumaThibodaux!
It is with great excitement that we are able to welcome Bishop Dorsonville to our diocese as our new bishop. Our Foundation staff and board of directors are eager to work alongside Bishop Dorsonville to support the ministries that he will soon be shepherding. Together we will work to grow long term sustainability and support of our church parishes, schools and ministries of our diocese as one Catholic community together.
Melissa Robertson, director Human Resources/Safe Environment
The Office of Human Resources welcomes Bishop Mario Dorsonville to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. I am looking forward to continuing our mission of promoting the Catholic social teaching of dignity of work and the rights of workers to all employees while providing just and fair treatment through personnel programs including but not limited to employee benefits, policy and procedure, and consultative services to all diocesan locations.
The Office of Child and Youth Protection extends a congratulations to Bishop Dorsonville as the Fifth Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux. Together, I look forward to continuing to protect our children and young people from abuse and restore the integrity of the church as we engage our clergy, employees and volunteers in a concerted effort.
Hispanic Catholic Ministry
Como Oficina de Ministerio Hispano estamos alegres y nos complacemos en darle la más cordial bienvenida a nuestro Obispo Mario E. Dorsonville. Agradecemos a Dios y al Papa Francisco por nombrar un pastor para nuestra Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux y pedimos en nuestras oraciones para que Dios lo bendiga y Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe lo acompañe siempre.
English Translation:
As the Office of Hispanic Ministry, we are happy and pleased to give a warm welcome to our Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville. We thank God and Pope Francis for appointing a pastor for our Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and we ask in our prayers that God will bless him, and Our Lady of Guadalupe will always be with him.
Lonnie Thibodeaux directorMedia and Public Relations
Office of the Bishop
I extend my sincere congratulations and heartfelt prayers to Bishop Dorsonville on his appointment as our Fifth Bishop in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. While my career path allowed me to interview
and spend time with your four predecessors, and even to work directly under Archbishop Fabre for four years, you represent the first of our bishops that I get to work closely with from before the day you first entered our Pastoral Center. I join with the rest of the diocese in rejoicing in your installation and may the Lord bless you with many great years of fruitful service to us!
Mark Williams, Ed.D. superintendent Catholic Schools
The Catholic school community of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux extends a warm welcome to Bishop Dorsonville as we welcome him to our faithfilled academic community. On behalf of everyone in our school community, we eagerly await the opportunity to work beside our shepherd in the vineyard of the Lord. The gifts and talents that God has blessed our shepherd with, blended with our own gifts, will create exponential effectiveness in our ministries. We are delighted that the Holy Father has summoned you to serve our community.
648 B Corporate Drive Houma, LA (Behind Target) (985) 876-1283
God’s Precious Word and Gifts
601 St. Mary Street Thibodaux, LA (985) 449-0618
Donald and Tammy Plaisance, and the employees of God’s Promises Books and Gifts and God’s Precious Word and Gifts welcome Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. May your episcopacy here be fruitful, faith-filled and inspiring as you shepherd the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.
Central Catholic School Morgan City
Central Catholic School Morgan City
Central Catholic would like to offer a warm welcome to Bishop Mario Dorsonville as he assumes his role as Bishop of the Diocese of Houma Thibodaux. We know his vision and unique talents will provide outstanding leadership to the diocese. We, like the other schools in the diocese, are looking forward to meeting Bishop Dorsonville and showing him the various faithbased activities and academic successes our Catholic schools have to offer. Our prayers and support will be with him each day as he implements his vision for the diocese.
St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School, Houma
The St. Francis Cathedral School community, with honor and pride, welcomes Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville to the Diocese of Houma Thibodaux. The Installation Mass will serve as the beginning of a partnership between Bishop Dorsonville and the SFCS family. This continual partnership will stand rooted in faith through Catholic education, community and service. From the youngest of our students to the elders that lead our community, St. Francis is excited and prepared to share the journey of Catholic education led by our bishop.
On behalf of the entire St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School community, we would like to extend a warm welcome to you as our new diocesan bishop. We are incredibly grateful for your commitment to Catholic education and the spiritual guidance you offer to our schools. We look forward to working with you to create a brighter future for our students. We know that with your help, we can create an environment that is rooted in faith, knowledge and growth. Our prayers will be with you as you embark on this spiritual journey.
The Lord has blessed us with the appointment of Bishop Mario Dorsonville as the shepherd of our diocese. It is with great gratitude that the entire E.D. White Catholic High School family welcomes you with open arms, and we ask God to help you guide us closer to him.
Vandebilt Catholic High School, Houma
On behalf of the Vandebilt Catholic community I would like to welcome Bishop Dorsonville to the bayou. We are so pleased to have you as our shepherd and look forward to working with you to grow our church. May God bless you and sustain you in your new role.
Bienvenue, Bishop Dorsonville, au Diocese de Houma-Thibodaux! We are so excited to have you as our new bishop and are ready to serve as your followers. Although we are small in size, we are mighty in faith! The entire Hawks community is ready to embrace you and your spiritual guidance for our school, community and church. Our school family eagerly waits for you to visit our humble campus and meet our amazing students, faculty and staff. We are praying for you and our diocese. “He shepherded them with a pure heart; with skilled hands he guided them” (Psalm 78:72).
St. Mary’s Nativity School, Raceland
St. Mary’s Nativity School extends our warmest welcome to Bishop Dorsonville, Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux. St. Mary’s Nativity School has provided a Catholic education to students in the Raceland area since 1963. We look forward to your guidance and leadership in supporting and furthering the mission of Catholic education.
Congratulations, Bishop Dorsonville!
St. Bernadette Catholic School, Houma
St. Bernadette Catholic School is so very excited to have Bishop Mario join our diocesan family as its shepherd. South Louisiana is a very special place, and we are so blessed to add Bishop Mario to our wonderful community.
The Vandebilt Catholic community is excited to welcome Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville as the fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.
We thank you for your service to our community.
vandebiltcatholic.org
On behalf of our St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic school staff, students and families, we would like to warmly welcome you to your new home. We offer open arms and prayerful hearts. We look forward to having you visit our school and feel the energy of sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with our children.
Bienvenido, Bishop Dorsonville! On behalf of Vandebilt Catholic High School, welcome to our diocese. We look forward to your leadership for our young Catholics and for our educational institutions that strive to meet the mission of Catholic education. For over 150 years, Vandebilt Catholic has been committed to spiritual formation and academic excellence in an environment rooted in Catholic values. Our “Terrier Nation” is excited to meet you and grow in our faith through your leadership.
St. Genevieve Catholic School’s students and staff would like to take this opportunity to welcome Bishop Mario to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. We are eagerly anticipating having the bishop visit our parish and most especially, our school. We pray that Bishop Mario’s time with us will strengthen our relationship with the Lord, while as followers of Christ, we hope to show him the generosity and kindness of our culture on the bayou.
(The following article by Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, which appeared in the Catholic Standard, Oct. 18, 2022, provides a glimpse into Bishop Dorsonville’s stance on immigration.)
Observing how recent responses to migrants demonstrate “the troubling convergence of our broken immigration system and the political divisions of our time,” Bishop Mario E. Dorsonville, auxiliary bishop of Washington and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Migration, issued a reflection on the Catholic Church’s enduring commitment to comprehensive immigration reform and welcoming the stranger as part of its unwavering defense of human life in all its forms.
This coincides with the ongoing celebration of Respect Life Month, during which the Catholic Church in the United States invites the faithful to consider more deeply why every human life is valuable and to reflect on how to build a culture that protects life from conception to natural death.
Here is Bishop Dorsonville’s full reflection, “Migration and the Judgement of the Nations”:
“In recent days and weeks, we have witnessed the troubling convergence of our broken immigration system and the political divisions of our time being inflicted upon men, women, and children seeking refuge in our country. Reports have indicated coordinated efforts to transport migrants—and in some cases intentionally deceive them—in furtherance of outcomes that are unbecoming of a moral society. At the same time, we are deeply concerned by the preservation and even expansion of policies such as Title 42, which unjustly deny access to humanitarian protections that were enshrined in law as a response to horrors witnessed during the twentieth century. Neither situation reflects a “safe, orderly and humane” immigration system, but their shared irreverence for human
lives is all too common in our present culture.
“For decades, my brother bishops and I have joined with an evergrowing chorus of voices in calling for comprehensive immigration reform to address the many flaws in our current system. This was the unequivocal sentiment of our Administrative Committee in March. Such reform must provide for the full integration of long-time residents, promote family unity, honor due process, respect the rule of law, expand legal pathways, preserve and strengthen humanitarian protections, prioritize dignified alternatives to detention, recognize the contributions of foreign-born workers, protect the vulnerable, and address the root causes of migration. We simply cannot allow partisan division to continue to impede the needed interventions of government. And while there are no easy solutions to the challenges we face, there is a just path forward that is waiting to be paved by those who are committed to the future of our country.
“Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis has frequently reminded us of the opportunities posed by immigration, countering misconceptions of migrants and refugees as burdens on welcoming communities. In his message for this year’s World Day of Migrants and Refugees, he reiterated this, stating: “Indeed, history teaches us that the contribution of migrants and refugees has been fundamental to the social and economic growth of our societies … . Yet this contribution could be all the greater were it optimized and supported by carefully developed programs and initiatives. Enormous potential exists, ready to be harnessed, if only it is given a chance.” National, state and local governments must work collaboratively with one another and civil society to devise a collective and humane response to the unavoidable reality of migration, seeking to embrace the potential it offers. In this context, strong federal leadership is especially important.
“Compelled by Christ’s clear mandate in Matthew’s Gospel, the U.S. Catholic community remains steadfast in its commitment to welcome the stranger, especially the most vulnerable. Whether Afghan, Ukrainian or Venezuelan, Dreamer or undocumented farmworker, asylum seeker, migrant or refugee, all are imbued by God with an inviolable dignity. This is the foundation of our church’s unwavering defense of human life in all its forms, contemplated in a special way during this Respect Life Month.
“Our country is often described as a “nation of immigrants.” When Christ returns on the Last Day, his judgment will reveal the veracity of that notion. May each one of us – especially those bearing the burdens of leadership – be judged worthy to inherit God’s kingdom, having endeavored to build it on Earth. BC
Bishop Dorsonville calls for immigration reform that recognizes the ‘inviolable dignity’ of all newcomers
Bishop Dorsonville Welcome
Francis A. Robichaux,
Jody M. Plaisance, MD
Kyle J. Guidry, MD
Kyle J. Guidry,
Jenny A. Templet, MD
Jenny A. Templet,
A. Brownie Fortier, Jr., MD
A. Brownie Fortier, Jr., MD
Joshua J. Huval, MD
Joshua J. Huval,
Daniel B. Naul, MD
Daniel B. Naul, MD
William D. Owens, MD
‘Father P.J.!’
Hundreds of people gathered at St. Hilary of Poitiers Church in Mathews to honor Very Rev. Patrick J. (P.J.) Madden’s year of service as diocesan administrator during the sede vacante. “Father P.J.” assumed the position April 1, 2022, and served the diocese with enthusiasm and grace as its leader until Bishop Dorsonville took possession of the diocese March 29, 2023. See photos, page 79.
70 Message from our Administrator
By Very Rev. Patrick J. (P.J.) Madden74 Pope Speaks
Pope Francis I
75 Questions of Faith
By Father Wilmer Todd76 Readings Between the Lines
By Father Glenn LeCompte98 Overtime By Ed
DanielsIn Every Issue
78 Scripture Readings
82 Heavenly Recipes
84 Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons, Religious and Seminarians
86 Youth in Action Guest Columns
80 Easter
By Father James Rome Announcements
97 Gospel Fest, April 22
97 Staff appointment announced
My brothers and sisters in Christ, a very Happy and Blessed Easter to you all. As people of faith, who have reviewed our lives during Lent, we now celebrate the joy of knowing that Christ, who called us, is indeed risen, and invites us to rise with him to a living faith, based on our knowledge that, by his cross and resurrection, Christ has freed us to leave fear behind and celebrate this new life!
In this year of Eucharistic Revival, we are even more focused on the great Pascal Mystery of our redemption (sin is removed and grace fills the space in our souls) at our Easter Mass. Why, you may ask? Well because at every Mass, Christ, in a sacramental manner, reenacts the entire paschal mystery of his suffering, death and resurrection for us! And then, like the disciples who left after his crucifixion, we meet him on our own road to Emmaus at the breaking of the bread! Like those disciples on that fateful day, we recognize him, and he feeds us his very glorified body and blood!
“Do Not Be Afraid” we are told in our Easter Gospel! We live in a very divided and painful world and sometimes things look very bleak, but for Christians, hope always exceeds fear and anxiety. For Christ, after his resurrection, as he prepared to ascend to heaven, promised “I will be with you till the end of the age”! More than that, he promised to send the Holy Spirit to guide the church. In this,
my last reflection before I step aside as diocesan administrator, I invite you, even challenge you, and myself too, to renew our faith in Christ’s real presence, body, blood, soul and divinity, in the Eucharist. To do this we must make Sunday Mass a central part of our lives, so we can actually feed on Christ’s word and body!
the Lord so we can together witness to Christ in our family and community. In this sense, every Sunday from now can be a Pentecost as we come to the table of justice, feed on the food of peace and receive from our bishop, through the Mass, the mandate to “be my witnesses … to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:11).
This is, of course, nothing new to our diocesan family; it is the heart of our Strategic Plan, which calls us to become, each using the gifts with which we have been blessed, to be missionary disciples, always learning at the feet of the Master (Mass readings help here) and sharing our graces after celebrating the meal which fills the soul with fearless missionary faith. Then we will, as Christ challenges us, say yes when we mean yes and no when we mean no! And the world will know we are Christians by our love!
This Easter offers us a unique opportunity to start afresh on our journey of faith, inspired by hope, centered on the Eucharist itself. We start this faith filled journey in the care of a new shepherd, Bishop Mario Dorsonville. He has made clear that he wants to invite all to the table of
Be assured of my continued prayers in my daily Mass, for our new bishop and each of you, even as I ask you to continue to pray for me. I cannot find words to say how grateful I am for the privilege with which Christ has blessed me this past year, and for all your prayers, which meant everything to me. May the peace of Christ, which surpasses all human understanding, find space in your hearts and may we, his mystical body, remain united in love. BC
‘Do not be afraid! He is not here, for he has been raised just as he said’
Mis hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, una muy Feliz y Bendita Pascua para todos ustedes. Como personas de fe, que hemos examinado nuestra vida durante la Cuaresma, celebramos ahora la alegría de saber que Cristo, que nos ha llamado, ha resucitado realmente, y nos invita a resucitar con Él a una fe viva, basada en nuestro conocimiento de que, con su cruz y su resurrección, ¡Cristo nos ha liberado para dejar atrás el miedo y celebrar esta vida nueva!
En este año del Reavivamiento Eucarístico, nos centramos aún más en el gran Misterio Pascual de nuestra redención (el pecado es eliminado y la gracia llena el espacio de nuestras almas) en nuestra Misa de Pascua. ¿Por qué? Pues porque en cada Misa, Cristo, de manera sacramental, recrea todo el misterio pascual de su sufrimiento, muerte y resurrección por nosotros. Y luego, como los discípulos que partieron tras su crucifixión, nos encontramos con Él en nuestro camino de Emaús, al partir el pan. Como aquellos discípulos en aquel fatídico día, le reconocemos, ¡y él nos da de comer su mismo cuerpo y sangre glorificados!
“No tengan miedo”, nos dice en el Evangelio de Domingo de Resurrección. Vivimos en un mundo muy dividido y doloroso, y a veces las cosas parecen muy sombrías, pero para los cristianos, la esperanza siempre supera al miedo y a la ansiedad. Porque Cristo, después de su resurrección, cuando se preparaba para subir al cielo, prometió: “Estaré con ustedes hasta el fin del mundo”. Más aún, prometió enviar al Espíritu Santo para guiar a la Iglesia. En esta, mi última reflexión antes de dejar de
Comentario
ser administrador diocesano, los invito, incluso los reto, y a mí mismo también, a renovar nuestra fe en la presencia real de Cristo, cuerpo, sangre, alma y divinidad, en la Eucaristía. Para ello, debemos hacer de la misa dominical una parte central de nuestras vidas, ¡para poder alimentarnos realmente de la palabra y el cuerpo de Cristo!
juntos podamos dar testimonio de Cristo en nuestra familia y en nuestra comunidad. En este sentido, cada domingo a partir de ahora puede ser un Pentecostés, cuando nos acerquemos a la mesa de la justicia, nos alimentemos con la comida de la paz y recibamos de nuestro obispo, a través de la misa, el mandato de “ser mis testigos... hasta los confines de la tierra” (Hch 1,11).
Esto, por supuesto, no es nada nuevo para nuestra familia diocesana; es el corazón de nuestro Plan Estratégico, que nos llama a convertirnos, cada uno usando los dones con los que hemos sido bendecidos, en discípulos misioneros, aprendiendo siempre a los pies del Maestro (las lecturas de la Misa ayudan aquí) y compartiendo nuestras gracias después de celebrar la comida que llena el alma de fe misionera intrépida. Entonces, como Cristo nos desafía, diremos sí cuando queremos decir sí y no cuando queremos decir no. Y el mundo sabrá que somos cristianos por nuestro amor.
Esta Pascua nos ofrece una oportunidad única de comenzar nuestro nuevo camino de fe, inspirados por la esperanza, centrados en la propia Eucaristía. Comenzamos este viaje lleno de fe al cuidado de un nuevo pastor, el obispo Mario Dorsonville. Él ha dejado claro que quiere invitar a todos a la mesa del Señor para que
Tengan la seguridad de que seguiré rezando en mi Misa diaria por nuestro nuevo obispo y por cada uno de ustedes, del mismo modo que les pido que sigan rezando por mí. No encuentro palabras para expresar lo agradecido que estoy, por el privilegio con el que Cristo me ha bendecido este último año, y por todas vuestras oraciones, que lo han significado todo para mí. Que la paz de Cristo, que supera toda comprensión humana, encuentre espacio en sus corazones y que nosotros, su cuerpo místico, permanezcamos unidos en el amor. BC
“¡No tengáis miedo! No está aquí, ha resucitado tal como lo había dicho”
Anh chị em thân mến trong Chúa Kytô, trong niềm hân hoan và ơn thánh Chúa Phục Sinh ở cùng tất cả. Là những người có niềm tin, đã qua Mùa Chay rèn luyện thân xác, giờ đây chúng ta dâng lên lòng trào dâng vì biết rằng Chúa Giêsu, Ngài đã kêu gọi chúng ta, là Ngài thật sự đã sống lại, và mời gọi chúng ta đồng hành với Ngài trong niềm tin sống động, dựa trên sự cảm nhận rằng, do thập giá và phục sinh, Chúa Kytô đã giải thoát để lại sự sợ hãi phía sau và hoan hỷ sự sống mới!
Trong năm canh tân Thánh Thể này chúng cần phải chú tâm hơn về Mầu Niệm Vượt Qua của sự cứu rỗi (tội lỗi được xóa bỏ và ân sủng bao bọc tâm hồn mình) ngay trong Thánh Lễ Phục Sinh. Tại sao, anh chị em đặt câu hỏi? Đúng, bởi vì trong mỗi Thánh Lễ, Chúa Kytô, dựa trên nền tảng bí tích, diễn đạt lại toàn bộ mầu nhiệm sự đau khổ, chết và phục sinh cho chúng ta! Và tiếp đó, như hai môn đệ đã rời khỏi thành đô sau cuộc tử nạn, chúng ta gặp Ngài trên đường đến Em Mau trong lúc bẻ bánh! Như các môn đệ trong ngày đệnh mệnh đó chúng ta nhận ra Chúa, và Ngài nuôi dưỡng chúng ta trong thân xác và máu vinh quang của Ngài!
“Các Con Đừng Sợ” chúng ta được loan báo trong Tin Mừng Phục Sinh. Mỗi ngày chúng ta sống với thế giới bị chia rẽ và đau khổ và đôi khi nhiều thứ nhìn rất là ảm đạm nữa, nhưng nếu là người Kytô thì hy vọng luôn luôn bỏ xa sợ hãi và lo lắng. Chính Chúa Kytô, sau phục sinh, trong lúc chuẩn bị về trời hứa rằng “Ta sẽ ở lại với chúng con đến ngày phán
Binh luan bang loi
xét”! Hơn thế nữa, Ngài đã hứa gửi Chúa Thánh Thần để hướng dẫn Giáo hội. Trong bản tin sau cùng này trước khi tôi rời khỏi nhiệm vụ Giám Quản, tôi mời gọi, hay thách thức anh chị em với tôi làm mới lại niềm tin Mình, Máu, Linh Hồn, Thiên Tính của Chúa Kytô trong Thánh Thể. Để làm được điều này chúng ta phải tham dự Thánh Lễ Chúa Nhật như là tâm điểm của đời sống, để chúng ta lãnh nhận lời và thân xác Ngài!
mời gọi chúng ta tham gia vào bàn tiệc Thánh để chúng ta có thể cùng ngài làm chứng nhân cho Chúa Kytô trong gia đình và cộng đồng. Theo chiều hướng này, mỗi Thánh Lễ Chúa Nhật giờ có thể là Ngày Hiện Xuống vì khi chúng ta tới bàn tiệc công lý, lãnh nhận thức ăn hoà bình và nhận từ bàn tay giám mục, qua Thánh Lễ, lời mời gọi là “làm chứng nhân... cho đến tận cùng trái đất (TĐCV 1:11)!
Điều này đương nhiên không có gì mới trong gia đình giáo phận; nó chính là trọng tâm của Sách Lược Mục Vụ, mà nó mời g̣ọi chúng ta, mỗi người dùng tài năng đã ban, trở thành môn đệ rao giảng, luôn luôn học hỏi bước theo chân Thầy (bài đọc trong Thánh Lễ giúp chúng ta) và chia sẻ ơn thánh sau mỗi lần tham dự bàn tiệc mà nó mang lại cho niềm tin rao giảng vững bền. Rồi chúng ta sẽ, như Chúa Kytô thử thách chúng ta, và chúng ta nói có là có và nói không là không! Và thế gian sẽ nhận ra chúng ta là Tín Hữu do tình thương mà mình có!
Phục Sinh năm nay cho chúng ta một cơ hội riêng biệt để bắt đầu đổi mới hành trình đức tin, mà nó được chiếu sáng bởi niềm hy vọng, đặt trọng tâm vào Thánh Thể. Chúng ta bắt đầu hành trình đức tin viên mãn này với sự hướng dẫn của mục tử mới là Đức Giám Mục Mario Dorsonville. Ngài nói rõ rằng ngài muốn
Hãy vững tin vì tôi nhớ anh chị em trong Thánh Lễ mỗi ngày, để cầu cho tân giám mục và mỗi người, cũng như xin anh chị em nhớ tôi trong kinh nguyện. Tôi không tìm ra được chữ nào khả dĩ nói nên được sự tri ân mà Chúa Kytô đã ban cho tôi năm vừa qua, và đáp lại sự cầu nguyện của anh chị em, nó rất ý nghĩa đối với tôi. Xin bình an của Chúa Kytô, mà lòng người không thể tưởng được, tìm được chỗ đứng trong lòng anh chị em và xin cho chúng ta, là thân thể nhiệm màu của Ngài, luôn gắn bó mình trong yêu thương. BC
“Các con đừng sợ!” Ngài không có ở đây, vì Ngài đã sống lại như Ngài đã phán”
(Rome Newsroom CNA) Pope Francis asked for prayers as he spoke about the future of the church and his pontificate so far in an interview published recently.
“The church is not a business, or an NGO, and the pope is not an administrator who has been commissioned to balance the numbers at the end of the year,” he said.
The interview, one in a slew of recent papal interviews to be published, marked the March 13 anniversary of Pope Francis’ election to the papacy.
“Being the pope is not an easy job. Nobody has studied before doing this,” the pope said, recalling how St. Peter also “fell” when he denied Christ.
“But, after the resurrection, Jesus chose (Peter) again,” Pope Francis explained. “That is the mercy of the Lord toward us. Also toward the pope.
According to the pope, it’s not easy to pay attention to God’s will and put it into practice: “It’s necessary to attune yourself with the Lord, not with the world.”
The papal interview centered on Pope Francis’ hopes for the future of the church, the world, and his own life.
He said the “governing program” of his pontificate was to implement the requests of the College of Cardinals’ general congregation, the meetings that took place ahead of the conclave that elected him.
He also said that back in 2013,
he reflected often on a quote from the homily of the first Mass of Pope Benedict XVI.
On April 24, 2005, Benedict said: “In this moment it’s not necessary for me to present a governing program. … My true governing program is that which doesn’t follow my own will, to not pursue my own ideas, but to listen, alongside all of the church, to the words and the will of the Lord and let myself be guided by him, so that he himself guides the church in this hour of our history.”
Asked about his wish for the world, Pope Francis responded: “peace.”
He also criticized what he called a “globalization of indifference” in the face of tragedies like war: “The turning a blind eye and saying, ‘Why should I care? It doesn’t interest me! It’s not my problem!’”
Francis said one of his dreams for the future of the church is a church which ventures out into the world and is among the people.
He also addressed the topic of clericalism.
“Clericalism is the worst thing that can happen to the church, worse still than the periods in which the pope was corrupt,” he added. “A priest, a bishop
or a cardinal who becomes ill through clericalism does a lot of damage to the church. It’s a contagious disease. Even worse are the clericalized lay people: they are a nuisance in the church. Lay people should be lay people.”
Pope Francis said one issue that has made him suffer a lot during his pontificate is corruption.
“I’m not speaking about only financial corruption, inside and outside of the Vatican, I’m talking about corruption of the heart. Corruption is a scandal,” he said.
His hope for his own future, he said, is that the Lord will be merciful with him.
He asked for prayers from those who pray and “good vibes” from those who do not. “The pope loves you and is praying for you.”
“Even if bad things happen, even if you have had a bad experience with someone from the church, don’t let it condition you. The Lord is always waiting for you with open arms. I hope you succeed in experiencing it within your lives like I have within mine many times. The Lord has always been beside me, above all in the darkest moments.” BC
I’ve been reading that the priest should be the only person to use the “orans posture” while praying the Our Father during Mass. But, I have noticed that many people in the congregation do it, also. What is the correct posture for the lay faithful to use while praying the Our Father during Mass?
In his book, The Spirit of the Liturgy, the late Pope Benedict XVI when he was Cardinal Ratzinger, described the “orans posture” as “the oldest gesture of prayer in Christendom.” Depictions of it can be found on the walls of Rome’s ancient catacombs.
Orans is a Latin word that means “one who is praying or pleading.” This prayer posture involves standing with the elbows close to the sides of the body, with the hands outstretched sideways, and with palms up. It symbolizes being open to God. Today, the orans position is still used in parts of the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican and Lutheran liturgies, Pentecostal and charismatic worship.
The early Christians saw the position as representing the posture of Christ on the Cross. Until the ninth century, the entire congregations adopted this posture for celebrating the Eucharist. By the 12th century, the joining of hands began to replace the orans posture as the preferred position for prayer. It continued to be used at certain parts of the Catholic and Orthodox Churches’ liturgies. In the Catholic Mass, it occurs at the orations, (the collect, the prayers over the gifts,
and the prayer after Communion) the Eucharistic Prayer, and the Lord’s Prayer.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website states, “No position is prescribed in the Roman Missal for an assembly gesture during the Lord’s Prayer.” No “rule” or guidelines exist; however, it has become common in some congregations for the faithful to adopt the orans posture. The priest, by contrast, is directed specifically in the rubrics to adopt the orans posture during the Our Father. That is where there seems to be a conflict.
If the orans position in the Mass has come to symbolize the priestly prayer for the congregation, then the rubrics of the Mass should no longer call for the priest to extend his hands during the Our Father as if he is praying for the congregation. He should instead be directed to join his hands as he does for all other prayers said with the congregation. During the Our Father, he is praying not for the congregation but along with them as in the Gloria and the Creed when he joins his hands.
If the priests do not assume the orans position during the Our Father, the laity will not imitate him. If the church changes the rubrics of the Mass to direct the priest to join his hands during the Our Father, priestly symbolism will again be consistent through the entire Mass. The people will come to imitate that gesture, and the orans issue will be resolved rather
quickly.
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal says, “A common bodily posture, to be observed by all those taking part, is a sign of the unity of the members of the Christian community gathered together for the Sacred Liturgy” (par. 42.2). What we should want to do in the liturgy is to all have the same bodily position (in as far as possible recognizing limitations imposed by physical disabilities, etc.). This shows that we are all members of the one Mystical Body of Christ united under the priest and under Christ the head.
The reason that this matter is rarely addressed has to do with pastoral sensitivity. If some people are innocently praying in the orans position or even holding hands, the priest is not going to go out of his way to embarrass them or cause them to feel uncomfortable for praying that way. Their action, while not liturgically correct, is probably not a distraction to anyone around them.
A priest might feel required to address such a situation if the people were being instructed by others to use the orans posture or if it were so widespread that those who chose not to do so were made to feel uncomfortable. Many other rubrics of the Mass are not being followed. If a congregation is sincerely praying the Lord’s Prayer using the orans position, go with the flow! BC
Imagine you read a fascinating book and could not wait to tell someone else about it. One night at a party you converse with a stranger, begin telling her about the book and then ask, “Do you know how it ended?” You might be very embarrassed if the stranger said, “Of course I do; I wrote the book!”
In a laughable way, the two disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:18-24 try to explain to Jesus the significance of the events of his life. But Jesus’ response indicates that they did not do a very good job of it!
The slowness of Jesus’ disciples to understand how God fulfilled his plan through Jesus’ life and work, and to believe in his resurrection reflects the difficulty experienced by most believers in their journey of faith.
The first report, given by Jesus’ female followers, of his resurrection is not believed by the apostles (Luke 24:1011). That same disbelief characterizes Cleopas and his companion on their journey toward Emmaus. That they are on a journey is significant. Luke uses the journey as a motif for spiritual progress. Jesus journeys to Jerusalem to fulfill God’s plan (9:51-23:56). In Acts 13:4, Paul begins a series of journeys which will take the Good News to the ends of the earth. Cleopas and his companion are on a journey toward faith in Jesus’ resurrection and understanding of God’s plan.
The sharp difference between the perspective of Cleopas and his companion and that of Jesus comprises the challenge in the episode. Cleopas recounts Jesus’ good works and the tragedy, as Cleopas conceives the event, which befell Jesus in Jerusalem. Because they view the events of Jesus’
life as defeat, Cleopas and many other disciples have lost the hope they had placed in Jesus as the redeemer of Israel.
The irony of Cleopas’ concluding statement could not be more stark. He recalls how those who went to the tomb to test the women’s report found it as they said, but did not see Jesus! He says this while looking Jesus in the face and not realizing who he is! Cleopas’ comically ironic statement is the pivot on which the episode turns from a story about a report of disappointing news to one of good news.
Jesus, viewing the same events from God’s perspective, has an entirely
different interpretation. Everything that happened to him, including his suffering and death, was necessary to fulfill God’s plan. In fact, all of the Scriptures (our Old Testament) testify to the way God’s plan was fulfilled in Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection. There is no passage in the Scriptures which specifically says that the Messiah must suffer, die and rise. However, Jesus’ fate parallels that of Moses and the prophets, who met rejection for carrying out their mission, yet accomplished the task which God set out for them (R. Tannehill, The Narrative Unity of Luke-Acts, 2. 286287). Moreover, Elijah and Moses
Easter is a time to renew our faith in the risen Lord a
are both said to have ascended (2 Kings 2:11-12; Sirach 48:9) as will Jesus in Luke’s story (Luke 24:51; Acts 1:9). Additionally, some of the speeches in Acts relate the Christ event to passages in the Old Testament (2:25-28, 3:22-23; 9:32-33, etc.).
The episode of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus ends on a note which is both joyful and important. Cleopas and his companion recognize Jesus as they dine with him. In Jesus’ actions of taking, blessing and breaking bread, which recall his feeding of the multitude and the Last Supper (Luke 9:10-17; 22:14-20), the two disciples recognize Jesus. They realize that the “tale” the women told was true after all. This is wonderful news, because it means their fellowship with him was not ended by death (Tannehill, LukeActs, 2. 290). At this point, the life of
Jesus’ disciples changes drastically; they recapture the hope they lost. While their dejection would have impeded them from carrying out the next phase of God’s plan, the proclamation of the Gospel to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8), their renewed hope enables them to accomplish their God-given mission. Moreover, Luke speaks directly to his readers through his characters. Christians from the late first century onward can believe that the risen Lord is truly with them when they break bread together.
Thus, Luke’s message is as much for us as it was for his original readers. Easter is a time to renew our faith in the presence of the risen Lord as we gather around the eucharistic table. BC
v How does your awareness of the risen Lord’s presence with us at the Eucharist help you to face the challenges of life?
v How has the Lord helped you grow out of spiritual blindness into spiritual insight?
v Peter gave his own testimony about Jesus (first reading). What do you most want to tell others about Jesus?
A Mass of thanksgiving for Very Rev. Patrick J. (P.J.) Madden, who has been serving as diocesan administrator for the past year, was celebrated recently at St. Hilary of Poitiers Church in Mathews. Very Rev. Madden was the main celebrant of the Mass, which was concelebrated by priests of the diocese. During his homily, Very Rev. Madden thanked those present for their prayers and support during the past year and as he transitions back into retirement. The Mass was followed by a reception in the multipurpose building.
Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier
When do you set up your Christmas tree? Or better yet, when do you take down your Christmas tree? You might think what odd questions to ask to begin an article on Easter. Well, I wonder if the answers to these questions might reveal something about the importance of Easter in your mind and heart. Follow me here … Obviously Christmas and Easter are extremely important to Catholics and their observance of Catholic traditions within the church. But have we let others, outsiders of the church, drive our actions, and, therefore, our understanding and beliefs toward two of the most holy and sacred events of our liturgical year?
The danger is that no matter how good our intentions are, our actions speak louder than our intentions, and our children and grandchildren pick up on them and are guided and molded by them. We wonder then why some of them fall away from the church when they don’t see us emphasizing that Jesus is the reason for both seasons. Back to the original questions. Does the end of Thanksgiving mark the beginning of Christmas season for you because the retailers of the world lay down their grandiose ‘Christmas is Upon Us’ push? Do we really need to break out the red and green flood lights, reindeer, and blow-up Frosties when we haven’t even finished Ordinary Time or begun Advent? Why do we do it? And don’t say it’s because you’re
already in the storage shed picking up the turkey decorations because if that is the excuse why are we tossing our Christmas trees out before New Year’s Day? Please don’t say it’s because you’re already in the storage shed getting ready for Mardi Gras, lol! The most likely reason seems to be we are letting pagans determine our liturgical seasons like mules led by nose-rings.
And it doesn’t seem to be quite as disjointed, but do advertising for chocolate bunnies and gold brick eggs drive your mental presence of Easter? If so, don’t expect the leaves to fall far from your trees. I am no more innocent of these practices than the next good Catholic. Easter egg hunts and mounds of candy were the meaning of Easter for me as a child and that was with a saintly mother. And, of course, that is not an entirely bad thing when we are children. But we need to grow up. We are now the molders of young minds, and controllers of liturgical seasons within the home.
Both Christmas and Easter are indispensable for Catholic understanding and appreciation of the Paschal Mysteries. But the Catholic Encyclopedia says, “Easter is the
principal feast of the ecclesiastical year. Pope Leo the Great calls it the greatest feast and says that Christmas is celebrated only in preparation for Easter. It is the center of the greater part of the ecclesiastical year.” If we are going to make the break this year from secularism driving our liturgical seasons, we need to grow from childhood knowledge and ways to big boy and big girl knowledge and ways. It’s called spiritually maturing.
Why is Easter this most important feast of the Catholic liturgical year? Easter represents the fulfillment of God’s promises to mankind. It is so important because all of Christianity revolves around the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. If Jesus did not die for our sins and rise again after three days in the tomb, then the entire Christian faith would be empty. The entire Christian hope would be based on lies like straw and twigs. If Jesus did not resurrect from the dead, then heaven would not be open, and Christians would be like Jews waiting for the Messiah to come. Christianity would be a fable, a fabrication, a fairy tale. Don’t take my word for it, here is St Paul, “But if there is no resurrection
of the dead, then Christ has not been raised; if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain, and your faith is in vain. We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified of God that he raised Christ whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. ... If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 15:13-15,17).
Brethren, death is death, but Jesus’ resurrection conquered death. Because of his resurrection, heaven is open, and that is the best reason for Easter to be the greatest celebration of the year.
Like most of our Catholic feasts they are not limited to only one day. We celebrate entire liturgical seasons so please don’t stop saying Happy Easter
the day after Easter. Easter day only begins the season and lasts for seven weeks ending with Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit onto the Blessed Virgin Mary and the apostles. It is a time when Jesus walked the earth in his resurrected body. Stress that and make that known to your children and grandchildren who are thirsting for superheroes. Teach them the names of the twelve apostles as the most courageous men ever to live, and don’t fall for it that they can’t remember their names because I promise they can name every Marvel Avenger. It’s time we take back not only our liturgical seasons from those brainwashing advertising giants, but we promote our real-life heroes; firstly Jesus Christ in the flesh and his holy
family of Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph, the protector of the holy family, the most chaste spouse, and the terror of demons; and secondly, the lives of the apostles and all the saints and martyrs. That’s how St. Ignatius of Loyola grew from spiritual infant to a spiritual giant. He read about real heroes, and it captivated him.
These are your marching orders: Stop throwing out your Christmas tree on December 26. Give up promoting Santa, Rudolph, and the Easter bunny. Grow in spiritual maturity, and most of all don’t let anyone else define Easter for you.
(Father James Rome is the associate pastor at St. Bernadette Church parish in Houma.) BC
This month’s Heavenly Recipe, Ground Meat and Carrots, comes from Sarah Adams, marketing & graphics representative for the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana.
Sarah began “working” for the Catholic Foundation in February of this year, but says she has been volunteering since last year.
“I served on the Annual St. Joseph Dinner committee where I was in charge of asking for auction items, setting up, and graphics for silent auction items. The Catholic Foundation is very special to me and all that it represents. I would help here any day of the week if asked, so getting paid to be here is truly just a bonus,” says Sarah.
Sarah says that Ground Meat and Carrots was a meal that was served at Holy Rosary Catholic School in Larose back in the 1970s and 80s. “It was one of my mom’s and her siblings’ favorite meals that was served for lunch at the school. Because it was something they loved, they would ask my grandmother to make it for dinner. There wasn’t much to it; she would cook down some ground meat and add a can of sliced carrots and serve it over rice.”
While Sarah was growing up, her mom took that simple meal and made it for her and her siblings for dinner. Sarah says that as her mother’s culinary skills improved with experience, she really took the time to make ground meat and carrots its best self, while taking a more “gourmet” approach to the dish.
“She would sauté the onions in butter, use whole fresh carrots and roast them, use flavored deer ground meat to give it a more complex flavor, and make a gravy in it, as well.
Sarah says her mother transformed this simple meal into something much more comforting.
Ingredients
2 tbsp. olive oil
2 cups Guidry’s seasoning
1.5 lbs. whole carrots
1 lb. green onion deer ground meat
1 lb. garlic deer ground meat
1/2 cup Tony’s instant roux
1 cup water
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tbsp. Kitchen Bouquet
2 tbsp. sliced green onions
2 tbsp. fresh chopped parsley
Directions
Peel whole carrots, cut ends and discard. Then cut carrots into one inch chunks. Heat up a large pot on medium heat and sauté the Guidry’s seasoning in the oil and butter as well as salt and pepper until soft and translucent. Then add in the carrots to get some color on them. Remove the Guidry’s seasoning and carrots and set them aside. Add ground meat, cook through and drain any left over fat/liquid. Add the Guidry’s and carrots back in the ground meat. Take one 1/2 cup of Tony’s instant roux and a cup of water and mix in a cup until dissolved, then pour it into the ground meat and carrots and mix well. Add beef broth and this will form a slight gravy like consistency. Add Kitchen Bouquet and mix thoroughly. Put in oven at 350 degrees for 1 hour or until carrots soften. Mix in fresh green onions and parsley and serve over rice.
“When I got married and started a family,” says Sarah, “I took that ground meat and carrots recipe and started making it for my little family, as well. I hope one day my girls can continue to cook this meal for their children and so forth, for years to come.”
Sarah says she cooks a lot and finds it therapeutic. “There is something about a home cooked meal that is comforting, and it gives me great joy to cook for family and friends and have them enjoy eating what I cook. But I don’t just cook regular Cajun dishes. I like to stretch myself and cook restaurant quality meals and learn new skills that challenge me.”
Sarah learned to cook from her mother, Rene David, who she says taught her everything she knows.
Working with the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana has been a dream of Sarah’s for some time. She says she constantly watched to see if something in her area of expertise would become available. “And God willing, the perfect job with the perfect team became available and I was thrilled to apply and accept the job.” She says her two favorite things about her current position are that she truly enjoys the team she works with, and she is being challenged to improve her skills. “The team I work with is a group of amazingly talented women and it’s an honor to be a part of the team. Secondly, I like that I am being challenged into creating things I haven’t done before; and watching my skills grow and my designs come to life is very fulfilling.”
The Cut Off native has been living in Thibodaux for the last four years. She and her husband Jason, who is originally from Larose, will be married eight years in 2023. They are parishioners of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral parish in Thibodaux. She and her husband have two daughters, Charlotte who is six years old, and Elizabeth who is four years old. “They are my greatest blessings and gifts. Being a mother is truly one of my best accomplishments in life and I am so thankful God has given me this gift and trusted me with his children,” she says.
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.
School: Central Catholic School, Morgan City
Grade: 12th
Church parish: Sacred Heart, Morgan City
Describe your family unit: Scott Thomas, father; Dominique Besse Thomas, mother; Ross Thomas, brother
Favorite Hobby: Golf, fishing, spending time with friends and family
Favorite Movie: Rocky
Favorite T.V. Show: Outer Banks
Favorite Genre of Music: R & B
I am looking forward to joining a Catholic campus organization at LSU where I’ll attend college. I hope to continue my faith by attending retreats and getting involved with campus ministry. Our CCHS campus ministry has helped me tremendously with staying focused on spreading God’s love to all. I am hoping to join a retreat team or possibly help with youth formation classes. I enjoy discussing with others about our faith and how we, as young adults, should help our local churches and staff. I truly believe that if more young people participated in Mass, doing the readings, helping with retreats, then our generation would understand that God is always there for us unconditionally. It’s a constant reminder of his love. In order to receive you must give and my way of giving is participating by helping others. I am looking forward to attending different parishes and Masses as a future college student and meeting other young Catholics. BC
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
On April 4, the Catholic Church honors Saint Isidore of Seville, a bishop and scholar who helped the Church preserve its own traditions, and the heritage of western civilization, in the early Middle Ages.
In 653, less than two decades after his death, a council of bishops in Spain acclaimed St. Isidore as “an illustrious teacher of our time and the glory of the Catholic Church.” He is regarded as being among the last of the early Church Fathers, who combined Christian faith and classical education.
Isidore was born in Cartagena, Spain, in approximately 560. Three of his siblings – his brothers Leander and Fulgentius, who became bishops, and his sister Florentina, a nun – were later canonized as saints along with him.
As the Archbishop of Seville, Leander was an important influence on his younger brother, helping Isidore develop a commitment to study, prayer and intense work for the good of the church. Isidore, in turn, joined his brother’s mission to convert the generally heretical Visigoths who had invaded Spain.
When St. Leander died around the year 600, his brother succeeded him as Seville’s archbishop. Isidore inherited his brother’s responsibility for church affairs in an intense period of change, as the institutions of the Western Roman Empire gave way to the culture of the barbarian tribes.
For the good of the church and civilization, Isidore was determined to preserve the wisdom and knowledge of the past, maintaining the fruitful synthesis of classical Roman culture and Christian faith. He was also intent on preventing false teachings from shattering the unity of the church in Spain.
Responsible above all for the good of the church, Isidore also sought the common good by encouraging study and development in areas such as law, medicine, foreign languages and philosophy. He compiled the “Etymologiae,” the first encyclopedia written from a Catholic perspective.
Under Isidore’s leadership, a series of local councils solidified the orthodoxy of the Spanish Church against errors about Christ and the Trinity. Systematic and extensive education of the clergy was stressed as a necessary means of guarding the faithful against false doctrine.
Prolific in his writings and diligent in governing the church, Isidore did not neglect the service of those in need.
For a culture of peace and non-violence. We pray for the spread of peace and non-violence, by decreasing the use of weapons by States and citizens.
“Indeed, just as we must love God in contemplation, so we must love our neighbor with action,” he declared. “It is therefore impossible to live without the presence of both the one and the other form of life, nor can we live without experiencing both the one and the other.”
St. Isidore of Seville died on April 4 of the year 636. Later named a Doctor of the Church, he was more recently proposed as a patron saint of Internet users, because of his determination to use the world’s accumulated knowledge for the service of God’s glory. BC
Very Rev. Patrick J. (P.J.) Madden, diocesan administrator, greeted 18 catechumens and 17 candidates of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux at the Rite of Election of Catechumens and the Rite of the Call to Continuing Conversion of Baptized Candidates ceremony on the first Sunday of Lent at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.
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.”
Very Rev. Madden declared the following 18 Catechumens “elect” for the sacraments at the upcoming Easter vigil: Brooklyn Chenette, Sacred Heart, Cut Off; Whitney Gomez, Samuel Wilke, St. Hilary of Poitiers, Mathews; Sandra Paz, Elena Paz, Holy Family, Grand Caillou; Jeremy Clement, Annunziata, Houma; Jacob Petrisevac, Ben Rhodes, Eli Usie, Iyanna Walton, St. Bernadette, Houma; Robert Woodley, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma;
Nicholas Oden, St. Gregory, Houma; Erik Gravel, St. Joseph, Chauvin; Ashley Boudreaux, Holy Rosary, Houma; Lucero Lizardi, Christ the Redeemer, Thibodaux; David Barrilleaux, Holy Cross, Morgan City; Emily Fryou, Sacred Heart, Morgan City; Breanna Bourgeois, St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles Community.
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 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.
Very Rev. Madden recognized the commitment of the following 17 Candidates to continue their conversion and preparation to receive the sacraments of confirmation and Eucharist: Jesty Billiot Jr., Bradley Landry, Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Golden Meadow; Jorge Monraga, Kylee Voisin, Jeremy Zovacky, Annunziata, Houma; Ricky Babin, St. Bernadette, Houma; Tanya W. Breaux, Justin Meier, Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma;
Allen Reed, St. Gregory, Houma; Jennifer Deshautelle, Mark Saucier, St. Joseph, Chauvin; Micah Lillich, Adriuen Maught, Christ the Redeemer, Thibodaux; Natalie Cannata, Austin Ratcliff, Holy Cross, Morgan City; Grant Lagarde, St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles Community; Tanner Williams, St. Joseph Co-Cathedral, Thibodaux. BC
By ANNIE BREERWOOD
Nine months have passed since Roe vs Wade was overturned in June 2022. At Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center (CPRC), the time for celebration has passed too, as we face a new battle in the fight for life. How do we offer help and hope to women who still desperately seek abortions?
With the closing of abortion clinics in Louisiana, an estimated 5,000 babies have been “saved” from abortions according to the Louisiana Right to Life organization. However, we know women and babies are still not safe from abortion because women are travelling to states where abortion is still legal, or they are having illegal at-home medical abortions. Since June
2022, CPRC has received more than 500 abortion minded inquiries, which is a record number since opening in 2003. The CDC reports that more than half of abortions in the United States occur via the abortion pill and these numbers are expected to continue to rise in post-Roe America.
The term abortion pill - also referred to as medical abortion, chemical abortion, RU-486 or self-managed abortion - is most used in reference to the two-pill process that includes medications mifepristone and misoprostol taken to terminate a pregnancy within the first 10 weeks.
The first pill, mifepristone, is prescribed within the first seven to 10 weeks of pregnancy and is administered
at the office visit to block the effects of progesterone. Progesterone is a naturally occurring, essential hormone that provides vital nutrients needed for the developing baby to thrive. Without progesterone, pregnancies will fail. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken at home six-48 hours later, causing cramping and bleeding to empty the uterus and expel the baby.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against taking the abortion pill without medical supervision and does not recommend purchasing online. However, earlier this year, the FDA updated their regulations to allow the lethal chemical abortion pill regimen to be dispensed in pharmacies across the United States.
CVS
and Walgreens have already stated their plans to implement this in their pharmacies. This would make them an incredibly large chain of abortion providers in our country, further normalizing the killing of babies while harming women in the process.
Despite the new FDA regulations, abortion is still illegal in Louisiana. Our-pro-life laws, specifically the 2022 Mail-Order Abortion Prohibition Act (ACT 548), prohibits the selling, prescribing, distributing, dispensing or delivering of abortion-inducing drugs for use for elective abortion.
St. Paul writes, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12). Pregnant women are battling at home, suffering in silence and in isolation, and we must fervently pray for them to reach out for help before deciding to have an abortion. As Christians, it is our responsibility to always offer love and hope to women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and help women and men find healing through Jesus Christ for a past abortion.
We know that an unplanned pregnancy can be scary, and many women make decisions to abort when they are terrified and stressed. After taking the first abortion pill, some women regret their choice and want to reverse it. Thankfully, there is an effective process called Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) that can reverse the effects of the first abortion pill
and allow a woman to continue her pregnancy.
For those seeking to reverse the effects of the abortion pill, the ideal is to start the protocol within 24 hours of taking the first abortion pill. However, there have been many successful reversals when treatment was started within 72 hours of taking the first abortion pill. Using the natural hormone progesterone, medical professionals have been able to save 64-68 percent of pregnancies through APR.
According to Jor-El Godsey, president of Heartbeat International, more than 3,000 mothers have had the joy of holding their newborn babies in their arms thanks to the APR treatment. These were mothers who desperately sought out an abortion, thinking it was their only option, and immediately regretted their decision to end their baby’s life. Through the APR hotline each quickly found a doctor who provided the treatment to reverse the abortion drug and save their baby’s life. Our hope in the coming months is to add the Abortion Pill Reversal
treatment to our list of services at CPRC.
Please join us for our Respect Life Dinner on Wednesday, April 18 to hear Rebekah Hagan’s testimony. Rebekah is one of today’s youngest speakers on the issues of teenage pregnancy, abortion and Abortion Pill Reversal. At just over seven weeks pregnant, she began a medication abortion that changed her life; however, her story did not end there.
For more information or to register for the Respect Life Dinner, please visit https://friendsofcrossroadsprc.org/ respect-life-speaker-event/ or scan the QR code below.
Visit www.abortionpillreversal.com for more information on Abortion Pill Reversal treatment.
Let’s unite to keep Louisiana pro-life by protecting every baby and helping every mom!
Visit https://prolifelouisiana.org/ keeplaprolife to sign the petition.
(Annie Breerwood is the executive assistant of Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center in Thibodaux.) BC
Devotion to St. Valerie, who is considered to be the patron saint of Thibodaux especially invoked for protection from storms and floods, can be traced back to1868 when Pere Charles Menard procured part of the arm bone of Valerie from Cardinal Constantino Patrizi Naro while on a pilgrimage in Rome and brought it back to Thibodaux for the veneration of his parishioners.
The prized relic was placed in a box of pasteboard, sealed in a waxen statue which represented a young woman and dressed in a robe of silk moire embroidered with gold and a crimson tunic of velvet and gold, then laid in a coffin-like reliquary of oak and glass. On the morning of April 18, 1868, the reliquary of Saint Valerie arrived from New Orleans on the steamboat Nina Simmes by way of Bayou Lafourche. Thibodaux firemen unloaded the reliquary in Donaldsonville and led a procession in her honor to the altar of St. Joseph Church.
On May 25, 1916, a fire began in the
sacristy of St. Joseph Church. Cries of “Save St. Valerie! Save St. Valerie!” were said to have been heard from onlookers who watched the fire engulf the church. The reliquary, one of the few objects saved from the ruins, was brought to the Mount Carmel Convent Chapel until a new church was built (Cross, Crozier, and Crucible, Glenn R. Conrad, The Roman Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, 1993).
In an article written for Bayou Catholic in 1991 by the late Lee A. Martin, author and historian, he recounted how the Thibodaux firemen responded quickly to the May 1916 fire with all of their equipment, but because of the town’s inadequate water system, the blaze was soon completely out of control.
“The Thibodaux firemen were undoubtedly the saddest and most frustrated of the city’s residents. Most were Catholic and all were dedicated firemen. … At a time when firemen were needed most and at a time when they most wanted to help, they were
forced to watch helplessly as their venerated church burned to a mere shell.”
The relic was transferred back to St. Joseph Church April 26, 1925, atop a fire truck belonging to Hook and Ladder Fire Co., as parishioners lined the streets to show their devotion to St. Valerie.
The Thibodaux firemen, who also consider St. Valerie to be their patron, have always participated in the St. Valerie procession that is sponsored by St. Joseph Co-Cathedral on or near her Feast Day, which is April 28.
A Firemen’s Mass is celebrated annually the weekend before the Firemen’s Fair at one of three churches in Thibodaux: St. Joseph Co-Cathedral, Christ the Redeemer or St. Genevieve.
This year, the Firemen’s Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux, Sunday April 30 at 9:30 a.m., with the St. Valerie procession beginning at the church at 8:45 a.m.
The public is invited to attend. BC
(CNA Washington D.C.) On March 3, the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano reported the latest statistics about the global Catholic Church.
The Vatican’s reporting is based on data gathered at the end of 2021.
Here are the most important takeaways for you to know about the state of the Catholic Church today.
1) The total number of Catholics has increased.
The total number of Catholics across the world reached 1.378 billion, increasing 1.3 percent from the previous year. Though notable, this increase does not match the world’s total population increase of 1.6 percent.
2) The total number of priests continues to decrease.
The number of diocesan and religious order priests declined globally by 0.57 percent to 407,872. Religious order priests saw a larger decrease of 1.1 percent, while diocesan priests decreased by 0.32 percent.
3) The number of seminarians also continues its steady decline.
According to the Vatican, the number of seminarians has been decreasing since 2013. The latest report shows
the number of seminarians across the globe decreased by 1.8 percent to 109,895. The sharpest declines were in North America and Europe, where the number of seminarians decreased by 5.8 percent on both continents.
4) The number of women religious decreased.
The total number of women religious in the world decreased by 1.7 percent, down to 608,958.
5) There is a huge imbalance of priests to lay faithful in the Americas. While North and South America
claim 48 percent of the world’s Catholics, the two continents only have 29 percent of the world’s priests.
The average ratio of priests to lay faithful across the world is 3,373 Catholics for every priest. In the Americas, there are 5,534 lay Catholics for every priest. In comparison, the ratio of priests to lay faithful in Europe is 1,784 per priest.
6) The total number of bishops decreased slightly.
The number of bishops across the globe decreased slightly from 5,363 to 5,340. The global average ratio is 76 priests per bishop.
7) The number of permanent deacons increased. The number of permanent deacons increased by 1.1 percent to 49,176, with the majority being in the Americas.
8) Brazil has the highest number of Catholics of any nation in the world. With 180 million faithful, Brazil has the greatest number of Catholics of any nation in the world.
9) The church is growing quickly in Africa. Despite continued violent persecution in countries such as Nigeria, the largest percentage increase of Catholics in the world was in Africa, with an increase of 3.1 percent.
10) Africa breaks the trend by showing an increase in seminarians and religious brothers. Africa also saw the only increase in seminarians and religious brothers across the globe. The number of seminarians in Africa increased by 0.6 percent. The number of religious brothers in Africa increased by 2.2 percent. BC
(CNA Rome Newsroom) Bishop
Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, Texas, has been named to a small committee planning the Vatican’s October assembly for the Synod on Synodality.
Flores, 61, is one of three bishops on the preparatory commission, which also includes three priests and a religious sister.
The committee was put together by Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops Cardinal Mario Grech, who will also oversee its work.
Flores was installed as bishop of the Diocese of Brownsville in early 2010, after just over three years as an auxiliary bishop of Detroit.
Born in Texas, he was ordained a Catholic priest for the Diocese of Corpus Christi in 1988. In 2000, he received a doctorate in theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (the Angelicum) in Rome.
The bishop, who has both Mexican and American roots, frequently posts in both English and Spanish on his popular Twitter account, where his profile name is “Amigo de Frodo.”
The Catholic Church’s Synod on Synodality has been underway since
October 2021. It will include two nearly monthlong Vatican assemblies: In October 2023 and October 2024. The continental phase, which followed a diocesan phase, concludes this month.
The two sessions of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops will bring together bishops from across the world to discuss and prepare a document to counsel the pope.
In addition to Flores, the other episcopal members of the organization committee are Archbishop Timothy Costelloe of Perth, Australia, and Bishop Lucio Muandula of Xai-Xai, Mozambique.
From Japan, Sister Shizue Hirota, a member of the Mercedarian Missionaries of Berriz, will also take part in the commission.
Jesuit Father Giacomo Costa, who played a key role in the Vatican’s communications for the 2019 Amazon synod, will be the group’s coordinator, while Polish priest Father Tomasz Trafny will be its secretary.
A theology and ecclesiology professor at the Pontifical Gregorian University, Father Dario Vitali, is also part of the committee. He is currently teaching
a course titled “‘Sensus Fidei’ and Magisterium in a Synodal Church.”
Jesuit Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, the relator general of the Synod on Synodality, will also participate in the group’s meetings. BC
Monique Vicknair
Albarado, LPC, who has been serving as director/counselor of Assisi Bridge House since 2018, will be returning to her roots to work as staff writer/photographer for the Bayou Catholic magazine. She will also work part-time as communications content coordinator for the diocesan Office of Communications.
Albarado received a bachelor’s degree in print journalism from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge in 1990 and began working for Bayou Catholic as staff writer and photographer in October of that year. In 2003, she earned a master’s degree in psychological counseling from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux and began working at the Assisi Bridge House as a counselor in training. After becoming a licensed professional counselor in the State of Louisiana in 2007, she began working as a counselor at the Assisi Bridge House. Albarado served as associate director of the Assisi Bridge House for approximately four years before being named director.
Albarado and her husband David live in Thibodaux. She is stepmother to David’s adult daughter, Amber. BC
St. Luke the Evangelist Church in Thibodaux is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its establishment, with the theme, “Embracing our Past, Celebrating the Present, Building a Future for the Next Generation.” As part of this milestone, there will be a series of events leading up to the grand celebration that will take place in January 2024.
One of the highlight events will be a Gospel Fest on the church grounds Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event, which will be a day filled with love, family, friends, singing and good food, is open to the public.
Jené E. Robinson, Gospel Fest chairman, says “Bring your family and chairs, and spend the day enjoying delicious food sold by local vendors and listening to some good old foot stomping and hand clapping singing. The day is about fellowshipping with one another.” BC
star Bobby Hebert, who gave him several good years.
So, Saints head coach Dennis Allen has hitched his wagon to quarterback Derek Carr and vice versa.
On to a new chapter, where Allen’s team is the favorite in a weak NFC South, and Carr gets a chance to jump start his career, away from the dysfunction that is the Raiders. Will it work?
There’s no reason it should not. Derek Carr is not the top shelf of NFL quarterbacks, because if he was, he wouldn’t have been a free agent, free to sign with any NFL team.
But, he is certainly in the top 12 to 15 signal callers, in a league with a true scarcity of outstanding quarterbacks.
Quarterback play has made or broken many a Saints head coach.
In 1976 and 1977, Archie Manning played in only 10 of the 28 games coached by Hank Stram.
Stram was fired after the 1977 season.
In 1986, Jim Mora inherited USFL
But, in 1990, when Hebert sat out the entire season in a contract dispute, a talented Saints team eked into the playoffs at 8-8, and lost in the first round at Chicago.
In 1993, Hebert was gone again, as a free agent signee of the Atlanta Falcons.
The Saints did not have a winning season until 2000, when then general manager Randy Mueller signed quarterback Jeff Blake in the first hours of free agency, and then in the summer traded for quarterback Aaron Brooks.
Brooks was the starter for the Saints first ever playoff win against the Rams at the end of that season.
Late in the 2002 season, then head coach Jim Haslett refused to bench a struggling Brooks, and start Jake Delhomme.
One year later at Carolina, Delhomme threw for 323 yards, three touchdowns, and four interceptions in a Super Bowl loss against New England.
In 2006, the Saints took a chance on Drew Brees, and he on they.
What followed was a Super Bowl
championship four years later, and three appearances in the NFC championship game.
When Brees departed, he took much of the Saints offense with him.
The Saints averaged 30 points a game in Brees’ final year.
Last season, the New Orleans offense, one that once struck fear in the hearts of opponents, averaged 19 points a game.
So, what should Dennis Allen do?
He should spend a lot of his draft capital on surrounding Derek Carr with playmakers.
Trading up to draft Chris Olave was a very nice start, but the Saints, with Alvin Kamara’s court case looming, need at least one running back, maybe two.
More than anything, the Saints need to be exciting.
For 15 years, that was rarely an issue.
It is now.
Dennis Allen has bet his second chance as an NFL head coach on Derek Carr, and Carr his second chance as a starter on Allen.
Saints Drive is suddenly the NFL’s version of last chance U. BC
For over 65 years, Terrebonne General Health System has evolved our care to better serve the patients we call neighbors. Through an advanced array of medical and technological resources, we offer incomparable specialized care with a proactive and preventative focus.
We’ve received prestigious awards and accreditations from many of the nation’s most prominent healthcare entities, but that isn’t why we strive for excellence every day. This is a true calling for all the physicians, nurses, and staff who make up our proud family.
