Bayou Catholic Magazine January 2021

INSIDE:

Bayou

Catholic Schools Week

Catholic

The official magazine of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Jan. 31 thru Feb. 6, 2021

JANUARY 2021 ~ VOL. 41 NO. 5 ~ COMPLIMENTARY

Contents

Features 24 Formation House

By Janet Marcel

26

Annual Bishop’s Appeal

By Janet Marcel

34

150 years of Catholic education

By Janet Marcel

Columns 9 Comfort For My People

By Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

12

Pope Speaks

Pope Francis I

13

Questions of Faith

By Father Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L.

14

Readings Between the Lines

By Father Glenn LeCompte

30

Reading With Raymond

By Raymond Saadi

37 Overtime

By Ed Daniels

In Every Issue 6 From the Editor 16 Scripture Readings 20 Youth In Action 22 Heavenly Recipes 28 Daily Prayer for Priests,

Deacons and Seminarians

Guest Column 18 ‘Fratelli tutti’

By Father P.J. Madden

Announcements 29 #iGiveCatholic raises over $900,000 33 Diocesan curriculum specialist named On Our Cover This year’s Catholic Schools Week theme is Faith.

Excellence. Service. Throughout the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, Catholic school students will be celebrating with various activities during the week of Jan. 31 through Feb. 6.

See pages 38-58 for the Catholic Schools special section.

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

St. Francis de Sales, Patron Saint of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Supporting the 2021 Annual Bishop’s Appeal ensures that men like Joseph will be able to faithfully answer God’s call to ordained service to the men and women who live within the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

Your contribution to the 2021 Partners in Hope Annual Bishop’s Appeal provides essential operating support to the Office of Parish Support Youth Formation, ensuring Christ is the constant companion in our children’s journey of faith.

Your contribution to the 2021 Annual Bishop’s Appeal supports our Catholic Schools Office that directly ministers to the Catholic Schools within the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

Your gift through the 2021 Annual Bishop’s Appeal supports all seventeen of our retired clergy through their supplemental retirement needs as well as health and long term care needs.

Ways to Give: Online: Visit our secure online giving site at www.htdiocese.org/bishopsappeal At your Parish: Place your envelope in the In-Pew collection on Sunday.

For more information on how your gift can make an impact to the Annual Bishop's Appeal please call 985-850-3122.

Please make checks payable to Annual Bishop’s Appeal.

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

‘Fratelli tutti’ Chapter One

Bayou Catholic Heavenly Recipes

How to reach us:

BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132

20Veronica Songe

18

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

BY FAX: (985) 850-3232

BY E-MAIL: bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org

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

Subscription rate is $35 per year.

Veronica Cooks a:

QUICK FIX MEAL 22

This month’s heavenly recipe, chicken Rotel, comes from Veronica Songe, tribunal specialist for the diocese. Veronica elebrated 40 years with the diocese in August 2020. “I found his recipe at a horse sale. I tweaked it and made it my own.

Everyone who tries it loves it.” The Lockport native now lives n Raceland and is a parishioner of St. Hilary of Poitiers Church in Mathews.

Veronica enjoys cooking. “I learned to cook from my ex mother-in-law and my maternal grandmother. They were both reat cooks. I love to cook soups and gumbos because most of he time they don’t always come out the same. I am somewhat dventurous in my cooking. I love trying new recipes.”

Veronica has an interesting lifestyle. She is an equine ancher. “My grandfather was a cattle farmer and my father was a tie down calf roper. As a child I was raised on a cattle arm and attended rodeos. I always had a horse in my life s long as I can remember. I got my first horse at two … hat was to keep me away from my dad’s horses.”

Veronica spent most of her weekends growing up helping her grandfather with his cattle. “When I was four years ld, I was in the Cotton Bowl Parade in Dallas, TX, with he Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Posse. My dad picked me up from my mom in the crowd and I rode on his horse.”

26

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

Chicken Rotel

Lawrence Chatagnier

editor and general manager

INGREDIENTS:

4 to 6 pieces of chicken (or rotisserie chicken) April LeBouef business manager 4 tbsp. butter 1 can cream of chicken Janet Marcel 1 can of Rotel tomatoes, mild staff writer/administrative assistant 16 oz. of Mexican Velveeta cheese Garlic powder to taste Lisa Schobel Hebert graphic designer Onion powder to taste Salt Meridy Liner Pepper accounts receivable/payable assistant 16 oz. pasta (I prefer penne’ or bowtie) Parmesan cheese (grated)

24

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Boil 16 ounces of pasta until done. Put in a 9X13 baking Like dishussprayed on Facebook with Pam. Boil and debone chicken, if usingor raw us on the web chicken. Cut chicken into bite sized pieces.Find Simmer in a www.bayoucatholic.org sauce pan with 4 tbsp. butter, Rotel, cream of chicken and cubed Velveeta. Once the Velveeta is melted add your seasonings. I use 2 tsp. garlic powder, tsp. onion Where to 2 find your Bayou Catholic powder, 1 tsp. of salt and 1 tsp. ofBayou pepper.

Start small can be found Catholic magazine all Catholic churchesover and Catholic schools and add as you see fit. Pour theat cheese mixture the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. the pasta and mix well. Top withthroughout parmesan cheese and To pick up a copy, you may also visit the bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes until merchants whobubbly. advertise in our issue. Those

38

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. the online edition, veryFor well when I was go to www.bayoucatholic.com young.

Now that I am

older and own a ranch,

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou I don’t ride. There are Catholic • 5

so many things that you

From the Editor

Goodbye 2020; hello 2021 Let’s all do our part to make 2021 a better year!

Goodbye 2020; hello 2021. What a year 2020 was. It was a year filled with violence, despair, tragedies and social unrest. There was the killing of George Floyd which sparked both peaceful and violent protests in the streets of America. We were in the grips of a global pandemic for most of the year which claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people globally. Wildfires in the western states and hurricanes in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico states claimed lives and displaced thousands of people across the country. Add to the mix a national election that helped fuel a polarized nation and you have a recipe for a widening gap between political parties and their supporters.

Fortunately a vaccine has been developed which will hopefully save lives and begin to bring things back to some sense of normalcy in everyone’s lives. The vaccine will only work though if people choose to take it and continue to follow the guidelines set forth by the

medical professionals until it can be controlled.

Perhaps Pope Francis has an answer for us concerning the growing divisions among people in the world today. His latest encyclical Fratelli tutti encourages everyone to promote fraternity through dialogue and renew society by putting love for others ahead of our personal interests.

It’s okay for people to disagree on issues. It’s always healthy to talk about our different opinions, likes, dislikes and points of view on national and international topics. We have the right to gather peacefully and make a stand for what we believe.

The problem comes in when we begin attacking people for what they believe or don’t believe. We should separate the issue from the individual. We are all created equal no matter what color our skin, nation we come from or our gender.

We are created in the image and likeness of God. In his encyclical the pope says, “It is also necessary to form a covenant between all members of society, rich and poor, which obliges everyone to give up some things for the common good.” Above all, he said we need to rediscover kindness.

Let’s use this new year as a spring board for a new start. I’m sure we can all think of someone who we could be a little kinder

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

to. We all have lost friends who might not think the same way we do about things. How many more times will we avoid the opportunity to reacquaint ourselves with old friends, relatives or co-workers that we have lost touch with because of differences of opinions? Let’s make 2021 the year that we take that leap of faith and try to be better people.

Now for those who have racism, hatred or evil in their hearts, let us pray that the Holy Spirit will guide them to the truth and the light which is Jesus Christ. Let us be inclusive in our daily prayers for the conversion of hearts and souls of those who are hardened by the evils of racism, injustice, hatred and all forms of social exclusion.

Remembering that we are led by the Holy Spirit and given gifts from the Spirit, we can make a difference in the world today. It is up to each one of us, led by the Spirit, to bring hope and love to a world that needs it desperately.

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

Lawrence

Lawrence Chatagnier Editor & General Manager

Official Approved Notice from U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana

Sexual Abuse Claims in The Roman Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans Bankruptcy Regardless of how old you are today or when the sexual abuse occurred, you need to file your claim so that it is received by 5 p.m. (Central Time) on March 1, 2021.

The Archdiocese of New Orleans has declared bankruptcy. If you were sexually abused in connection with the Archdiocese, including schools, orphanages, parishes, or an affiliated ministry, you could receive compensation but you need to file a claim so it is received by March 1, 2021. Please read this notice carefully as it may impact your rights against the Archdiocese and Non-Debtor Catholic Entities and provides information about the case, In re: The Roman Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans (Bankr. E.D. La.). This notice is a short summary. For more detail, including lists of names of clergy that have been identified in connection with sexual abuse claims, go to www.NOLAchurchclaims.com or call 1-877-476-4389.

Who Should File a Sexual Abuse Claim?

Anyone who was sexually abused, on or before May 1, 2020, and believes the Archdiocese may be responsible for the sexual abuse must file a claim. This includes sexual abuse in connection with any entity or activity associated with the Archdiocese, including schools, orphanages, parishes, or an affiliated ministry. Sexual Abuse Claims include, but are not limited to: sexual misconduct, touching, inappropriate contact, or sexual comments about a person or other behaviors that led to abuse, and regardless of whether you thought the behavior was sexual abuse or not.

When and How Should I File a Sexual Abuse Claim?

You should file a claim using the Sexual Abuse Survivor Proof of Claim so that it is received by March 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. (Central Time). If you do not file a timely Sexual Abuse Claim, you may lose rights against the Archdiocese and against Non-Debtor Catholic Entities, including any right to compensation. A list of Non-Debtor Catholic Entities is available at the website or by calling the toll-free number listed below. Only the Archdiocese is in bankruptcy. If you have a sexual abuse claim against any entity on that list, you may have a claim against the Archdiocese.

Your information will be kept private. You can download and file a claim at the website or call the toll-free number listed below for help on how to file a claim by mail.

ACT NOW Before Time Runs Out: WWW.

•

File a Sexual Abuse Survivor Proof of Claim.

•

•

If your claim is approved, you may receive compensation from the bankruptcy.

Have questions?

Call or visit the website for more information.

Your information will be kept private.

www.NOLAchurchClaims.com

1-877-476-4389 January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 7

The collection will be held January 23 and 24.

Thank you for your generosity.

Comment

Let’s put our trust in Jesus Christ as we journey through this new year

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre

As you may know, in ancient Roman mythology Janus was the god of new beginnings. In mythology, Janus is depicted as having two faces: One that faced backwards to the past; and one that faced forward to the future. It is easy to understand, therefore, why the month of January was named for Janus since the month occurs at the beginning of each new calendar year.

The month of January is the “hinge” between the old year that was, and the New Year that will be. It can be said that the month of January looks to the past and to the future.

During this January 2021, perhaps unlike any other year in recent memory we all have probably longed for a new beginning! In so many ways as we all are aware, 2020 was a tough year. An unprecedented number of hurricanes as well as other natural disasters, racism, racial unrest and disharmony, and of course all that surrounds and has disrupted our lives regarding COVID-19, all of these combined to make 2020 a really tough year. I am certain that many people who would not usually stay up to usher in a New Year did so to usher in 2021, because they were so happy to see the year 2020 consigned to the history books.

I do not usually stay up to ring in the New Year, but this time I did! We turn our faces not to the past year, but to the New Year.

As we begin this New Year amidst ongoing challenges, longing for renewal, we all know in faith that there

is no greater renewal opportunity that God has given to us than Jesus Christ, the Son of the living and true God. We continue in the Christmas season, still rejoicing in the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. In the joys and challenges of life, God is with us. Therefore, in the joy and challenges of life, yesterday, today and forever, it is Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, who renews us, and we entrust ourselves to his loving care during this New Year. As we have again embarked upon a New Year, at the very beginning of this year let us together entrust our journey through this calendar year to Jesus Christ, pledging to remain faithful to him every day of this New Year and always.

January is the month when busloads of youth from our diocese usually attend the annual March for Life that takes place in Washington, D.C. This year, however, we will not be participating in the national March for Life due to ongoing concerns with regard to the coronavirus. The tour buses that we utilize place the pilgrims who make the March for Life trip constantly in close proximity to one another. There is no way to adequately social distance on a bus, so this year we made the prudent decision to opt for the safety of all and not make the trip to the March for Life.

I must admit that even though it is a really tough trip in so many ways, the March for Life each year is also a special time of grace for the youth who are able to attend. I am actually going to miss it this year, but look forward in the near future when we are able to again send busloads of our youth to Washington, D.C., to march and stand for the dignity of human life. As this month we again mark the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion in our country, let us heighten our prayers and constructive efforts to hasten the end to abortion and to all attacks

against the sanctity of human life.

January also ushers in the start of the Mardi Gras season, and I am certain that this year celebrations of Mardi Gras will also reflect the reality that we still live in the shadow and the grips of the coronavirus.

Let us continue to join our voices in prayer for an end to the pandemic, and also continue to keep ourselves and others safe and do what we can to overcome the virus, such as wearing masks, social distancing, washing and sanitizing our hands, and gathering as households or in small groups only. If we do these things, then I know that we will hasten the arrival of the day, hopefully soon, when we can also consign the coronavirus to the history books, and journey together into all that God has promised to us!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! BC

“

In the joy and challenges of life, yesterday, today and forever, it is Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, who renews us, and we entrust ourselves to his loving care during this New Year.

“

Comfort For My People

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

Comentario

Pongamos nuestra confianza en Jesucristo mientras caminamos en este nuevo año alegrías y desafíos de la vida, ayer, hoy y siempre, es Jesucristo, el Hijo del Dios vivo, es quien nos renueva, y nos encomendamos a su cuidado amoroso para este Nuevo Año. Mientras nos hemos embarcamos nuevamente en el Nuevo Año, al mero inicio de este año, juntos encomendemos nuestra jornada de este calendario del año a Jesucristo, prometiendo permanecer fieles a él cada día del Nuevo Año y siempre.

Enero es el mes cuando los autobuses llenos de jóvenes de nuestra diócesis usualmente asisten a la Marcha Anual Pro-Vida en Washington, D.D. Este año, sin embargo, no estaremos participando en la Marcha Nacional Pro-Vida debido a la continua preocupación respecto al coronavirus. Los autobuses que utilizamos para las peregrinaciones para quienes hacen el viaje para la Marcha Pro-Vida constantemente, están muy cerca de unos con otros. No hay manera para una distancia social adecuada en el autobús, por lo que este año hemos hecho la prudente decisión de optar por la seguridad de todos y no hacer el viaje de la Marcha Pro-Vida.

Debo admitir que aun cuando es un viaje realmente difícil, la Marcha ProVida cada año es también un tiempo especial de gracia para los jóvenes quienes les es posible asistir. De hecho lo voy a extrañar este año, pero espero que en el futuro cercano podamos nuevamente enviar los autobuses llenos de nuestros jóvenes a Washington, D.C., a marchar y defender la dignidad de la vida humana. Mientras en este mes nuevamente marcamos el aniversario de caso Roe Vs. Wade, la decisión de la Suprema Corte que legalizó el aborto en nuestro país, incrementemos nuestras oraciones y esfuerzos constructivos para apresurar el fin del aborto y todos los ataques en contra de la sagrada vida humana.

Enero también da la bienvenida al inicio de la temporada del Mardi Gras, estoy seguro de que este año las

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

celebraciones de Mardi Gras también reflejaran la realidad que todavía vivimos en la sombra y la presión del coronavirus.

Sigamos uniendo nuestras voces en oración por el fin de la pandemia, y también continuemos manteniéndonos y manteniendo a otros seguros y hacer lo que podamos para vencer al virus, tal como usar cubre bocas, distancia social, lavarse y sanitarse las manos, reuniones caceras o en pequeños grupos solamente. Si hacemos todas estas cosas, entonces sabré que apresuraremos la llegada del día, espero que pronto, cuando también podamos consignar al coronavirus a los libros de la historia, y caminemos juntos hacia todo lo que Dios nos ha prometido. ¡Feliz Navidad y Feliz Año Nuevo a todos! BC

“

En las alegrías y desafíos de la vida, Dios está con nosotros. Por lo tanto, en las alegrías y desafíos de la vida, ayer, hoy y siempre, es Jesucristo, el Hijo del Dios vivo, es quien nos renueva, y nos encomendamos a su cuidado amoroso para este Nuevo Año.

“

Como ustedes saben, la antigua mitología romana, Janus era el Dios del principio nuevo. En la mitología, Janus es descrito como quien tiene dos caras: Una que miraba hacia atrás al pasado, y la otra que miraba hacia el futuro. Es fácil entender, entonces, porque el mes de Enero fue nombrado como Janus ya que el mes de ocurre al principio de cada calendario nuevo del año. El mes de Enero es la “bisagra” entre el año viejo que fue, y el Año Nuevo que será.

Se puede decir que el mes de Enero mira hacia el pasado y hacia el futuro.

Durante este mes de Enero 2021, quizás a diferencia de otros años en nuestra memoria reciente, todos probablemente hemos esperado por un nuevo comienzo. De muchas maneras, como todos somos conscientes, el 2020 fue un año difícil. Un número sin precedente de huracanes así como también desastres naturales, racismo, agitación racial y falta de armonía, y por su puesto todo lo que envuelve y ha interrumpido nuestras vidas debido al COVID-19, todo aquello combinado para hacer del 2020 un año realmente difícil. Estoy seguro que mucha gente quienes usualmente no permanecían despiertos para dar la bienvenida al Año Nuevo lo hicieron ahora para el 2021, porque estaban tan contentos de ver que el año 2020 se consignó en los libros de la historia. Yo usualmente no esto despierto al sonar el Año Nuevo, pero esta vez lo hice. No giramos nuestra mirada hacia el año pasado, sino hacia el Nuevo Año.

Mientras empezamos el Año Nuevo en medio de continuos desafíos, esperamos la renovación, todos sabemos en la fe que no hay mayor oportunidad de renovación que la que Dios nos ha dado en Jesucristo, el Hijo del Dios vivo y verdadero. Continuamos en el tiempo navideño, todavía alegrándonos por el nacimiento de Jesucristo en Belén. En las alegrías y desafíos de la vida, Dios está con nosotros. Por lo tanto, en las

Binh luan bang loi

Cùng nhau đặt niềm tin vào Chúa Giêsu Kytô khi ta hành trình trọn vẹn trong năm mới chúng ta. Vì thế, trong sự hân hoan và thử thách cuộc đời, hôm nay, hôm qua và mãi mãi, chính Chúa Giêsu Kytô, Con Thiên Chúa hằng sống, chính Ngài đổi mới chúng ta và bao bọc chúng ta trong tình yêu Ngài mọi ngày trong năm mới. Một lần nữa hành trình vào năm mới, khởi sự đầu năm là chúng ta cùng đặt những bước chân của mỗi ngày trong Chúa Giêsu Kytô, thề hứa trung thành với Ngài hôm nay và luôn mãi.

Vào tháng một các bạn trẻ trong giáo phận ngồi chật vài chiếc xe buýt du hành lên thủ đô Washington tham gia diễn hành phò sự sống. Tuy nhiên, năm nay chúng tôi không tham gia diễn hành vì đại dịch còn đang trong thời kỳ khó lường. Các chuyến xe buýt mà chúng tôi thuê để chuyên chở khách hành hương diễn hành phò sự sống đặt chúng tôi vào tư thế luôn bên cạnh nhau. Bởi vậy không thể nào tuân thủ giãn cách trên xe, nên năm nay chúng tôi sáng suốt quyết định chọn an toàn cho mọi người và không tham gia chuyến hành hương phò sự sống.

Tôi phải xác nhận là mặc dầu rất khó khăn khi đi tham gia diễn hành phò sự sống mỗi năm, nhưng nó là thời gian đặc biệt ân sủng cho các bạn trẻ nào tham gia. Riêng tôi cảm thấy nhớ năm này vì không được tham gia, nhưng nhìn về tương lai gần mà chúng tôi có cơ hội sẽ tổ chức các chuyến xe buýt khác đầy giới trẻ tới thủ đô Washington diễn hành để bảo vệ nhân phẩm con người. Cũng trong tháng này một lần nữa tưởng nhớ tới ngày mà tối cao pháp viện cho phép phá thai gọi là Roe chống lại Wade trong quốc gia này, hãy tăng thêm lời nguyện và tạo ra những hành động thực tiễn mau chóng chấm dứt phá thai và mọi sự tấn công đi ngược lại phẩm giá con người.

Tháng một cũng rộn ràng khởi đầu mùa diễn hành Mardi Gras, và tôi tin rằng mùa Mardi Gras năm nay cũng phản ảnh thực trạng là chúng ta đang sống trong bóng tối và sự kìm kẹp của con siêu vi rút.

Chúng ta cùng đồng thanh trong kinh nguyện để chấm dứt dịch và cũng tiếp tục bảo vệ mình và người khác và làm những gì có thể lướt thắng nó, như đeo khẩu trang, giữ khoảng cách, rửa tay bằng nước và xà bông khô, và tụ tập ít người trong nhà cũng như nhóm. Nếu anh chị em làm thế thì tôi nhìn được anh chị em sẵn sàng cho mỗi ngày, hy vọng gần hơn khi chúng ta ghi con vi rút vào sách sử, và cùng hành trình trong tất cả những gì Chúa đã hứa với chúng ta.

Chúc Mừng Chúa Giáng Sinh và Năm Mới Vui Vẻ!!! BC

“

Trong niềm vui và thử thách của cuộc sống hôm qua, hôm nay và mãi mãi, chính Chúa Giê Su Ky Tô, con của Đức Chúa Trời Hằng Sống, Đấng đổi mới chúng ta và chúng ta giao phó chính mình cho sự Chăm sóc Yêu thương của Ngài trong năm mới này.

“

Như anh chị em đã biết, trong huyền thoại cổ xưa thời La Mã Janus là thần của khởi đầu. Trong huyền thoại thần Janus được gán cho hai khuôn mặt: một khuôn mặt nhìn về quá khứ; và khuôn mặt kia nhìn về tương lai. Bởi vậy cũng dễ hiểu là tại sao tháng giêng được đặt tên là thần Janus vì tháng đó bắt đầu trong năm. Tháng một được coi như cái “bản lề” giữa cái gì cũ năm rồi và cái mới mẻ trong Năm Mới. Có thể nói tháng giêng nhìn về quá khứ và cũng nhìn về tương lai. Trong tháng giêng 2021 này, có lẽ không như những tháng giêng trong ký ức mà chúng ta mong cho nó mau tới. Nhìn tới nhìn lui thì chúng ta đã rõ, năm 2020 thật sự rất khó khăn. Bão táp xảy ra ngoài con số bình thường, cộng thêm các biến cố khác như tai hại thiên nhiên, kỳ thị chủng tộc, bạo hành sắc tộc, đảo lộn trật tự xã hội, và đương nhiên sự tấn công tứ bề và làm gián đoạn cuộc sống do con siêu vi rút COVID-19 gây ra, tất cả cộng lại làm cho năm 2020 thật là khốn đốn. Tôi tin chắc nhiều người trong quá khứ đã không có thói quen thức khuya đón năm mới nhưng đã thức khuya để chào đón năm 2021 bởi vì họ vui mừng thấy năm 2020 được ghi vào sách lịch sử. Tôi không có thói quen đón năm mới nhưng năm nay tôi đã thức khuya đón giao thừa. Chúng ta không nhìn về quá khứ nhưng về tương lai. Chúng ta bắt đầu năm mới mặc dù vẫn còn nhiều thử thách, nhưng mong mỏi sự mới mẻ, chúng ta biết rằng trong niềm tin không có sự đổi mới nào to lớn bằng sự đổi mới mà Thiên Chua ban cho chúng ta qua Chúa Giêsu Kytô, Con Thiên Chúa hằng sống và duy nhất. Chúng ta tiếp tục mùa Giáng Sinh, vẫn hân hoan mừng Chúa giáng sinh tại Bê Lem. Trong sự hân hoan và thử thách của cuộc đời, Chúa ở cùng

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 11

Comment

Pope Francis: God is patient and never stops waiting for a sinner’s conversion The Pope Speaks

Vatican City, (CNA) Pope Francis recently said that God does not wait for us to stop sinning to start loving us, but always holds out hope for the conversion of even the most hardened sinner.

“There is no sin that can completely erase the image of Christ present in each one of us,” the pope said at his general audience.

“Sin can disfigure it, but not remove it from God’s mercy. A sinner can remain in error for a long time, but God is patient till the end, hoping that the sinner’s heart will eventually open and change,” he said.

Speaking via livestream from the library of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, Pope Francis said that reading the Bible with prisoners or a rehabilitation group can be a powerful experience.

“To allow these people to hear that they are still blessed, notwithstanding their grave errors, that the heavenly Father continues to desire their good and to hope that they will open themselves in the end to the good. Even if their closest relatives have abandoned them … they are always children to God,” he said.

“At times miracles happen: Men and women are reborn. … For God’s grace changes lives: He takes us as we are, but he never leaves us as we are. … God did not wait for us to convert ourselves before beginning to love us, but he loved us a long time before, when we were still in sin.”

Pope Francis said that God’s love is like that of a mother who goes to visit her son in prison, adding “like this, we

are more important to God than all the sins we can commit, because he is father, he is mother, he is pure love, he has blessed us forever. And he will never stop blessing us.”

Continuing his cycle of catechesis on prayer, Pope Francis focused his reflections this week on blessing.

A blessing can accompany a person who receives it throughout his or her entire life and disposes the person’s heart to allow God to change it, the pope explained.

“The hope of the world lies entirely in God’s blessing: He continues to desire our good, He is the first, as the poet Péguy said, to continue to hope for our good,” he said, referencing the 19thcentury French poet Charles Péguy.

“God’s greatest blessing is Jesus Christ. This is the great gift of God, His Son. It is a blessing for all humanity; it is a blessing that has saved us all. He is the Eternal Word with which the Father blessed us ‘while we were yet sinners’: the Word made flesh and offered for us on the cross,” Pope Francis said.

He then quoted St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, as he chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and without blemish before him. In love he destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, in accord with the favor of his will, for the praise of the glory of his

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

grace that he granted us in the beloved.”

The pope said that we too can respond to “the God who blesses” by blessing through prayers of praise, adoration and thanksgiving.

He said: “The Catechism states: ‘The prayer of blessing is man’s response to God’s gifts: because God blesses, the human heart can in return bless the One who is the source of every blessing.’”

“We cannot only bless this God who blesses us, we must bless everything in him -- all the people -- bless God and bless our brothers and sisters, bless the world,” Pope Francis said. “If we all did this, surely there would be no wars.”

“This world needs blessing and we can give blessing and receive the blessing. The Father loves us. And we have the joy of blessing him and the joy of thanking him, and of learning from him not to curse, but to bless.”

At the end of his general audience, Pope Francis marked the 40th anniversary of the death of four missionary women, including two Maryknoll sisters and one Ursuline nun, who were raped and killed in El Salvador by paramilitaries during the civil war.

“They brought food and medicine to the displaced and helped the poorest families with evangelical commitment and taking great risks. These women lived their faith with great generosity.

They are an example for everyone to become faithful missionary disciples,” he said. BC

Comment

Questions of Faith Father Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L.

What about those who want to confess to God only?

I have a friend whose teenage son, born and raised a Catholic, has decided he doesn’t have to go to confession anymore. He feels he can just confess his sins to God. What do you think of this?

It is true that God alone forgives sins and can grant forgiveness outside the sacraments. Jesus, being fully divine, has the authority to forgive sins and even declares in the Scriptures, “Your sins are forgiven” (see Mark 2:5, 10; Luke 7:48). Since only God has the power to forgive, it would appear that confessing directly to God would be the way to obtain forgiveness. However, reconciling all of humanity with God through his suffering, death and resurrection, Jesus establishes the sacrament of reconciliation when he appears to the apostles gathered in the locked room.

“Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’

And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained’” (John 20:21-23).

By virtue of his divine authority, Jesus then gives the power to forgive sins to the apostles, continuing Jesus’ mission of reconciliation and exercising it in his name. St. Paul in his second letter to the Corinthians teaches, “And all this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation” (5:18).

Nevertheless, that power to absolve

was not just for the apostles. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) states, “Since Christ entrusted to his apostles the ministry of reconciliation, bishops who are their successors, and priests, the bishops’ collaborators, continue to exercise this ministry” (1461). Therefore, confessing our sins to a bishop or priest is the ordinary means of obtaining forgiveness and the remission of serious sin committed after baptism.

Additionally, if our sins harmed only our relationship with Christ, then perhaps one could argue that seeking forgiveness from Christ alone would be sufficient; however, we know that our sins also impact the body of Christ— the church—and so require a means to admit our faults and facilitate reconciliation with the community.

In his letter, St. James instructs, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed” (5:16). Imagine if we had to stand before the church community at Mass and declare to all present how we have sinned and harmed the body of Christ. I would dare say, few of us would choose to be reconciled with the community.

In the sacrament, the priest then acts both in the person of Christ and in the person of the church in order to mediate reconciliation. “The confession (or disclosure) of sins, even from a simply human point of view, frees us and facilitates our reconciliation with others. Through such an admission man looks squarely at the sins he is guilty of, takes responsibility for them, and thereby opens himself again to God and to the communion of the church in order to make a new future possible” (CCC 1455).

Not only is it necessary for us to confess our wrongdoings, but also out of simple justice, the harm our sins cause must be repaired. Absolution removes our sin, but it does not repair sin’s effects. “Raised up from sin, the sinner must still recover his full spiritual health by doing something more to make amends for the sin,” which we do when we are given a penance in the sacrament (CCC 1459). How many, when confessing to God alone, actually apply some act of reparation

for the wrong done? It is like breaking a neighbor’s window with a ball, feeling bad about it, saying I’m sorry, and walking back home. The window is still broken. We have to work out some way to pay for the new window. If we confess only to God, how do we repair the damage done?

Likewise, who do we see when we are ill? Confessing to a priest is like going to the doctor. Just as we go to a doctor, who is trained to diagnose and treat us when we are physically ill, those spiritually ill because of sin go to a confessor who is trained to diagnose and treat us with the correct spiritual medicine—giving spiritual guidance and imposing a penance according to the gravity and nature of the sins confessed. If we are not trained in medicine, we can easily misdiagnose our physical ailments or prescribe the wrong medicine; imagine the same happening in our spiritual life.

St. John Paul II beautifully summarizes the necessity of the sacrament in the Christian life and the certitude of forgiveness we receive: “It must be emphasized that the most precious result of the forgiveness obtained in the sacrament of penance consists in reconciliation with God … . But it has to be added that this reconciliation with God leads, as it were, to other reconciliations which repair the breaches caused by sin. The forgiven penitent is reconciled with himself in his inmost being, where he regains his own true identity.

He is reconciled with his brethren whom he has in some way attacked and wounded. He is reconciled with the church. He is reconciled with all creation” (Reconciliation and Penance 31:V).

Who would want to forego these results given by the grace of the sacrament? BC

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

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

Reflections

Pope Francis declares a ‘Sunday of the Word of God’ Jan. 23-24 Scriptures provide necessary spiritual nourishment and foster unity in the Christian community Readings Between the Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

As a young boy, my exposure to Sacred Scripture was, as in the case of most “cradle Catholics,” during the liturgy. At the prompting of a religion teacher when I was in junior high school, I started reading the Scriptures on my own and fell in love with God’s word. My love for Scripture was reinforced in my seminary studies, where I learned a great deal more about Scripture and enjoyed doing indepth study of it. After I was ordained, (the late) Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux, first bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, allowed me to fulfill my dream of doing an advanced degree in Scripture at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. To this day, I have enjoyed the opportunity to help Catholics come to a better understanding of God’s word through various media.

It comes as no surprise, then, that Pope Francis’ declaration of a “Sunday of the Word of God” in his apostolic letter, Aperuit Illis, was exciting news to me. He established this observance on Sept. 30, 2019, the feast of the great 4th-5th Century A.D. biblical scholar, St. Jerome. In particular, the pope says, “the Third Sunday in Ordinary

Time (this year, the weekend of January 23-24) is to be devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the word of God” (No. 3). Sifting through the document, I identify several statements that appear to represent the Holy Father’s motives for calling attention to God’s word. First of all, he thinks it important that we all “appreciate the inexhaustible riches contained in that constant dialogue between the Lord and his people” (No. 2). Secondly, he admits that he has received many requests “that the entire church celebrate, in unity of purpose, a Sunday of the Word of God” (No. 2). Furthermore, this observance can “enable the church to experience anew how the risen Lord opens up for us the treasury of his word and enables us to proclaim its unfathomable riches before the world” (No. 2).

Establishing a Sunday to focus on God’s word is a way of further implementing the decrees of the Second Vatican Council. The Constitution on Divine Revelation (hereafter, CDR) called for both a greater use of Scripture in the liturgy and to enable the faithful to have greater access to Scripture.

In addition, all the Christian faithful, clergy, religious and laity alike are exhorted “to learn by frequent reading of the divine Scriptures the “excellent knowledge of Jesus Christ” (CDR No. 25). Since the Scriptures are divinely inspired, to read them reflectively is to enter into dialog with God. What kind of activity is the “Sunday of the Word of God” intended to generate in the church?

On the Sunday of the Word, the proclamation

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

of the word should be highlighted, and those who proclaim the word regularly could be given further coaching in effective proclamation of God’s word.

Pastors could give out Bibles to their congregations and the faithful could be instructed in the Medieval practice of Lectio Divina, a method for reflecting on God’s word meant to lead the one who does so into contemplation of the Divinity. Pastors are reminded of their responsibility to help their parishioners understand the Scriptures better and are reminded of their duty to prepare diligently to preach the word of God in the liturgy (No. 5). Also, catechists are reminded that they cannot perform their ministry effectively unless they make the reading of God’s word a regular part of their spiritual diet.

Also, “renewed efforts should be made to provide members of the faithful with the training needed to be genuine proclaimers of the word” (No. 3).

Pope Francis also desires that we emphasize the importance of the reading of God’s word in the liturgy.

The key biblical text, which he cites several times in the document, is Luke 24:13-35, the story of two disciples of Jesus unknowingly encountering the risen Lord on the road between Jerusalem and Emmaus and in the breaking of the bread. This story, more than any other demonstrates an integral connection between word and sacrament. The Liturgy of the Word in the Mass should never be minimized, taken for granted or seen as unconnected to or as less important than the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Indeed, the Holy Father states

a

Reflections

“Sacred Scripture and the sacraments are thus inseparable. When the sacraments are introduced and illumined by God’s word, they become ever more clearly the goal of a process whereby Christ opens our minds and hearts to acknowledge his saving work” (No. 8). Regarding the importance of the proclamation of God’s word in the liturgy, the Holy Father echoes the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy No. 7 when he says, “The proclamation of God’s word at the celebration entails an acknowledgment that Christ himself is present, that he speaks to us, and that he wishes to be heard” (Endnote No. 2).

The pope identifies several fruits of the church’s deeper reflection and giving of attention to God’s word. Not only do the Scriptures provide necessary spiritual nourishment for us, but they foster unity in the Christian community (No. 8). In addition, the reading of the Scriptures forms ecumenical and

interfaith bridges between the Catholic Church and Protestants, on the one hand, and the Jewish people, on the other hand (No. 3). As stated above, understanding the relative importance and integral connection between word and sacrament will give us a better grasp of the liturgy.

As Pope Francis points out, the story of the risen Lord and the two disciples journeying to Emmaus demonstrates that the death and resurrection of Christ cannot be understood apart from the Scriptures, for the risen Lord enlightens the two disciples as to how the Scriptures (much of what we know as the Old Testament) point to the necessity of the Messiah’s dying and rising.

Finally, the pope does not intend that our renewed focus on God’s word be something we indulge in for just one Sunday per year. “A day devoted to the Bible should not be seen as a yearly

event but rather a year-long event, for we urgently need to grow in our knowledge and love of the Scriptures and of the risen Lord, who continues to speak his word and to break bread in the community of believers” (No. 8). BC

Reflection Questions

v How does your listening to the proclamation of God’s word in the first part of Mass lead you to a deeper appreciation of the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist later in the Mass? v How can daily reading of the Scriptures provide spiritual nourishment and guidance for your life? v What is your favorite Scripture passage and why does it inspire you?

What Scripture passage challenges you the most and why does it do so?

People.

That’s why you’ll love banking here.

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

Scripture Readings and a listing of Feast days and saints

Sunday

3 Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord Isaiah 60:1-6 Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6 Matthew 2:1-12 10

Monday

4 Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, religious 1 John 3:22—4:6 Matthew 4:12-17, 23-25 11

Feast of the Weekday Baptism of the Lord Hebrews 1:1-6 Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 Mark 1:14-20 Acts 10:34-38 Mark 1:7-11

17 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time 1 Samuel 3:3b-10, 19 1 Corinthians 6:13c-15a, 17-20 John 1:35-42

18 Weekday Hebrews 5:1-10 Mark 2:18-22

Tuesday

5 Memorial of Saint John Neumann, bishop 1 John 4:7-10 Mark 6:34-44

12 Weekday Hebrews 2:5-12 Mark 1:21-28

19 Weekday Hebrews 6:10-20 Mark 2:23-28

Wednesday

6

13 Weekday Hebrews 2:14-18 Mark 1:29-39

20 Weekday Hebrews 7:1-3, 15-17 Mark 3:1-6

25

26

27

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Jonah 3:1-5, 10 1 Corinthians 7:2931 Mark 1:14-20

Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul the Apostle Acts 22:3-16 Mark 16:15-18

Memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus, bishops 2 Timothy 1:1-8 Mark 3:31-35

Weekday Hebrews 10:11-18 Mark 4:1-20

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Deuteronomy 18:15-20 1 Corinthians 7:3235 Mark 1:21-28 16 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

7

Friday

Saturday

1 January

2

Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God Numbers 6:22-27 Galatians 4:4-7 Luke 2:16-21

Memorial of Saints Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, bishops and doctors of the church 1 John 2:22-28 John 1:19-28

8

9

Christmas Weekday Christmas Weekday Christmas Weekday Christmas Weekday 1 John 5:14-21 1 John 4:19—5:4 1 John 5:5-13 1 John 4:11-18 John 3:22-30 Luke 5:12-16 Luke 4:14-22a Mark 6:45-52

24

31

Thursday

14 Weekday Hebrews 3:7-14 Mark 1:40-45

15 Weekday Hebrews 4:1-5, 11 Mark 2:1-12

21

22

Memorial of Saint Agnes, virgin and martyr Hebrews 7:25—8:6 Mark 3:7-12

Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children Hebrews 8:6-13 Mark 3:13-19

28

29

Weekday Memorial of Saint Hebrews 10:32-39 Thomas Aquinas, priest and doctor of Mark 4:26-34 the church Hebrews 10:19-25 Mark 4:21-25

16 Weekday Hebrews 4:12-16 Mark 2:13-17

23 Weekday Hebrews 9:2-3, 11-14 Mark 3:20-21

30 Weekday Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19 Mark 4:35-41

January

You do the living ~

We do the rest.

Holy Father’s prayer intentions

Evangelization Human fraternity. May the Lord give us the grace to live in full fellowship with our brothers and sisters of other religions, praying for one another, open to all.

See www.apostleshipofprayer.org

Assisted Living Community

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

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

MedIcare certIFIed preFerred provIder NetWork phySIcIaN reFerral Not requIred

• Back/Neck care • Work/SportS INjurIeS • orthopedIc MaNual therapy • Foot orthotIcS/Foot care • WellNeSS prograMS • pre-eMployMeNt teStINg • FuNctIoNal capacIty evaluatIoN (Fce) • trIgger poINt dry NeedlINg • certIFIed haNd therapy

985.447.3164

985.876.1155

985.223.4760

808 Bayou Lane, ThiBodaux

1321 Grand CaiLLou, houma

125 Bayou Gardens, houma

www.ptcenter-la.com January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 17

Special

‘Fratelli tutti’

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

Guest Columnist Father P.J. Madden

Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis, the first pope from south of the equator, has brought a distinct open minded perspective to the papacy. Remember his first words after election when, in accordance with tradition, he appeared on the famous balcony of St. Peter’s to the cheers of thousands! He asked the crowd to bow their heads and “Pray for me!” This humility informs all his thoughts and actions since then. It is magnified in his beautiful exhortation, “The Joy of the Gospel,” evident through every word of his encyclical (official teaching letter) of 2015, Laudato si, on the care of our common home, and now invites each of us to realize that virtue in our own lives in this magnificent teaching Fratelli tutti.

This latest encyclical cannot be fully appreciated or applied in our own lives until we accept the message of the other two. In the first, Pope Francis offers “the approach of a missionary disciple, an approach ‘nourished by the light and strength of the Holy Spirit’” (par 50). This action of the Holy Spirit permeates all his teachings and

calls us to a new awareness that we all have that Spirit, with seven great gifts, received in confirmation, which empower us to present the Gospel, in all its richness, to the world, starting in our own families and communities.

In paragraph 117, he writes “The Holy Spirit, sent by the Father and the Son, transforms our hearts and enables us to enter into the perfect union of the blessed Trinity, where all things find their unity.”

In Laudato si, he takes us back to the beginning of time where God looked on all creation and “saw that it was good.”

He then challenges us to accept and apply the reality that “all creatures are moving forward with and through us to a common point of arrival, which is God” (par 83). Each of us, “capable of entering into dialogue with others and with God himself” (par 81), is obliged to look with love on all God’s creation and offer thanks, through our words and actions, for the gift which is ours, and to share that gift with others.

Earth, from which we are all made, belongs to God and we are stewards of it and all it holds, for a very brief breath of time. This is the heart of the Gospel, and Pope Francis wants us to understand that. Only then will we take the greatest care of this beautiful world and universe, and respect and reverence creation and each other.

To understand and benefit from Fratelli tutti, I believe, requires an understanding of this background which shows the continuity of Pope Francis’ thought: Life is short and

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

we are passing through at speed!

Surely we can spend our brief time together appreciating the goodness of God, the beauty of creation, and the joy of sharing all that earth offers us as brothers and sisters! All the more so, believers, who are bound together in Christ as his mystical body, must witness to others, in all circumstances, a deep conviction of our common brotherhood and sisterhood as God’s children, each loved unconditionally.

Fratelli tutti, a phrase attributed to St. Francis, was offered to the world on his feast day, at Assisi, by Pope Francis, to emphasize the need to pull back from all the present divisiveness in our world and remember our call to brotherhood and sisterhood as the only way forward to a better, safer, more just future on this planet. He assesses the present state of affairs as essentially one of “a third world war fought piecemeal” (par 25). That’s a very serious claim, but on reading his reflections in Chapter One, it makes sad sense! He says “we are more alone than ever in an increasingly massified world that promotes individual interests and weakens the communitarian dimension of life” (par 12). In particular he sees a threat to young people who are losing a sense of history in this world of transnational economic activity, in which the powerful get more powerful and the weak get forgotten! In this world the systems appear to portray young people as having “no use for history, who spurn the spiritual and human riches from past

a

Special

Chapter One generations, and are ignorant of everything that comes before them” (par 13). I share this concern and have expressed many times my conviction that younger people have come to accept that google is God, and, as it provides instant answers, they have no need to use their memories! This is very dangerous and leads to individuals determining their own subjective truths. This chapter highlights the consequences of such developments, and challenges us to return to a Gospel perspective which clearly calls us to “love one another, as I have loved you.”

In paragraphs 11-21, Pope Francis highlights the new dehumanizing of the political and economic systems which dominate our lives. He laments that “some parts of our human family, it appears, can be readily sacrificed for the sake of others considered worthy of a carefree existence” (par 18). In

addition, he claims we “have grown indifferent to all kinds of wastefulness, starting with the waste of food, which is deplorable in the extreme” (par 18).

Now we see the connection between this encyclical and the two previous ones! I suggest, even recommend, that the reader make a New Year’s resolution to read all three and use them as a meditation for 2021. Despite the negative tone in the first chapter of this letter, the message is one of hope!

We must never forget that Christ has conquered the world!

In paragraphs 25-31, we are shown how our present worldview allows us to become indifferent to the struggles of others, even to remain unmoved by wars which remove “the human family’s innate vocation to brotherhood” (par 26). This calls to mind our own diocesan Strategic Plan which calls us to deepen our awareness of, and commitment to each other as brothers and sisters in Christ. While the phrase might become a cliché if repeated too often, it is nonetheless vital to grasp that we have no choice, if we are to fulfill our Christian vocation, but to strive, in prayer and action, to be missionary disciples. Our church is always journeying outward to bring the joy of the Gospel to life in our world.

Led by the Spirit, we can each play our part, in that believing as we must, if we take the gifts of the Spirit seriously, that the ripple effect of our small effort can and will awaken and make a difference, always, of course, leaving the final effect to God himself!

From paragraphs 37-52, Pope Francis bemoans the world of pandemic,

racism, the isolating impact of social media, and the flight of refugees and their rejection by developed countries.

In particular, he strongly rejects, as contrary to the Gospel and our faith, anything which sets economic need above “the inalienable dignity of each human person regardless of origin, race or religion, and the supreme law of fraternal love” (par 39).

However, Chapter One finishes on a beautiful positive note, for Pope Francis is always a man of hope!

Thus, this encyclical fits perfectly with our own Strategic Plan, which is also one of hope (Jeremiah 29:11-14). In paragraph 55, he invites “everyone to renewed hope, for hope ‘speaks to us of something deeply rooted in every human heart.’ Hope is bold; it can look beyond personal convenience, the petty securities and compensations which limit our horizons, and can open us up to grand ideals that make life more beautiful and worthwhile. Let us continue, then, to advance along the path of hope.” What a wonderful way to set out on the year 2021, as we see the vaccine that will temper the virus, which has turned lives upside down, offer us a chance to return to normal living. May the hope of Christ reign in our hearts as we thank God for all that is good and open our hearts to serve the God in each sister and brother! Happy New Year.

(Father P.J. Madden is a retired priest of the diocese currently serving as administrator of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Church parish in Houma.) BC

Your best source for all of your insurance needs

412 Canal Blvd. • P.O. Drawer 1238 Thibodaux, LA 70302 985.447-2625 • www.riviereinsurance.com

Auto Home Commercial Life Health

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

Youth

in action

Ben Bourgeois

School: St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School, Houma Grade: 7th Church parish: Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Houma Family Unit: Ami, mother; Kyle, father; Katherine, sister Favorite Hobby: Collecting military artifacts, volunteering as a tour guide for the Regional Military Museum, football, basketball and weight training Favorite Movie: Remember the Titans Favorite T.V. Show: Band of Brothers Favorite Genre of Music: All kinds

How has attending St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School helped to strengthen your faith?

What are some of the ways serving others has taught you about how Christ lived his life?

Attending St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School has strengthened my faith by teaching me how important it is to go to Mass, serve God and serve others. My daily religion classes have helped me to learn about God through the Bible and the sacraments. The high expectations of the staff have helped me to grow in faith and encourage me to always be a good person. Christ has taught me to always help others when I can. When I raised money for the orphanage and helped feed people struggling through the pandemic,

it helped me to understand how important it is to help those in need just as Christ always cared for the poor and needy.

Through my time at the museum, I met many people in the elderly community that have taught me to appreciate life and all of my blessings.

Through the veterans I’ve learned to not be so quick to judge because you never know the difficulties that people have gone through. So just as Jesus has taught us, treat others how we would want to be treated. Especially

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

during these difficult times, I have come to appreciate my family, friends and education. Through playing sports I’ve learned to always try to give your best and never give up. My dream is to be in the military one day and to fight for freedom.

I hope to encourage other young people to help serve in their community because it is not about what you can get in return, it’s about what you give that is important. By giving back you receive so much more. BC

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

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

How does someone establish a seminarian burse/endowment fund?

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

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

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

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

All completed Seminarian Education Burses can be viewed online.

Please visit www.htdiocese.org/vocations.

November 2020 Endowment/Burse Contributions CFSL Seminarian Fund.......................$1,200.00 Dean J. Chiasson Fund ........................ $200.00

Open Burses/Endowment Funds with Balance as of November 30, 2020 Donald Peltier Sr. No. 4 ............................................ $13,000.00

Mr. & Mrs. Galip Jacobs ...............................................$3,060.00

Richard Peltier No. 2 ........................................................ $300.00

Joseph Strada Memorial............................................ $12,642.63

St. Jude ................................................................................$3,000.00

Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier .................................... $11,900.00

Diocesan Knights of Columbus No. 2 .....................$2,894.62

Claude Bergeron ............................................................... $250.00

Msgr. Raphael C. Labit No. 2 ................................. $11,680.00

Rev. Peter H. Brewerton ...............................................$2,600.00

Joseph Waitz Sr............................................................. $11,500.00

Willie & Emelda St. Pierre ............................................ $2,000.00

Claude & Lucy Mahler Family ................................ $11,400.00

Rev. John Gallen .............................................................. $1,950.00

Harvey Peltier No. 31 ................................................. $10,486.91

Rev. H.C. Paul Daigle...................................................... $1,900.00

Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis No. 2 ....................... $10,000.00

Deacon Connely Duplantis .......................................... $1,700.00

Rev. Michael Finnegan .................................................... $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Naquin............................................... $150.00 Deacon Pedro Pujals ......................................................... $100.00 Rev. Warren Chassaniol ................................................... $100.00 Deacon Eldon Frazier........................................................... $50.00 Deacon Nick Messina ..........................................................$50.00

C. Remie Duplantis No. 2 ......................................... $10,000.00

Alfrances P. Martin ......................................................... $1,650.00

Marie Elise Duplantis No. 2 ...................................... $10,000.00

Judge Louis & Shirley R. Watkins ............................. $1,650.00

Dean J. Chiasson Fund ..................................................$2,175.00

Maude & Edith Daspit No. 2 .................................. $10,000.00

Msgr. Francis J. Legendre No. 2 ................................$1,645.00

Fr. Brett Lapeyrouse Fund ............................................$3,000.00

Msgr. George A. Landry ........................................... $10,000.00

Rev. Robert J. Sevigny ...................................................$1,600.00

Msgr. William Koninkx ................................................. $8,900.00

Jacob Marcello .................................................................$1,600.00

Catholic Daughters ......................................................... $7,260.00

Rev. Hubert C. Broussard ............................................. $1,550.00

Rev. Victor Toth .............................................................. $7,000.00

Msgr. Emile J. Fossier .....................................................$1,545.00

Msgr. Francis Amedee ................................................. $6,850.00

Ronnie Haydel ..................................................................$1,535.00

Rev. Gerard Hayes........................................................... $6,686.00

Dr. William Barlette Sr. .................................................. $1,525.00

Jane & John Dean Fund ........................................... $15,096.66

Brides of the Most Blessed Trinity ............................ $6,598.00

Deacon Robert Dusse’................................................... $1,450.00

Lena “Bobbie” Sere’ Fund .............................................. $550.00

Rev. Guy Zeringue........................................................... $6,300.00

Rev. Anthony Rousso..................................................... $1,300.00

Leon ‘Ponoke’ & Marlene Champagne Fund .......$2,800.00

Rev. Peter Nies .................................................................$6,000.00

Msgr. John L. Newfield.................................................. $1,200.00

Mr. & Mrs. Love W. Pellegrin...................................... $5,000.00

Rev. Joseph Tu Tran No. .............................................. $1,094.00

Mary and Al Danos Fund .......................................... $83,259.76

Anonymous No. 2 ...........................................................$5,000.00

Msgr. John G. Keller ....................................................... $1,050.00

Fr. Patrick Riviere Fund ............................................. $28,395.95 Grant J. Louviere Fund .................................................... $100.00 Harold and Gloria Callais Family Fund ............... $62,452.41 James J. Buquet Jr. Family Fund ............................ $51,314.47

Mary Timothy Everett Fund .......................................... $500.00 Mr. & Mrs. Joseph J. Cefalu Sr. Fund ....................... $5,000.00

Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis Family No. 4 ............$5,000.00

Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux No. 4 ..........................$1,000.00

Rev. William M. Fleming ...............................................$5,000.00

Edna W. DiSalvo............................................................... $1,000.00

Mrs. Ayres A. Champagne ........................................... $5,000.00

Bernice Harang ................................................................ $1,000.00

Rev. Kasimir Chmielewski ........................................... $4,839.00

Deacon Willie Orgeron .................................................... $900.00

Rev. Clemens Schneider Fund .................................... $1,125.00

Joseph “Jay” Fertitta ....................................................... $4,450.00

Ruby Pierce ......................................................................... $800.00

Richard Peltier Fund .................................................... $45,797.04 Society of Joseph, Husband of Mary Fund .............. $100.00

Parker Conrad Fund .................................................... $15,000.00 Paul and Laura Duet Fund ............................................. $825.00

Rev. Henry Naquin.......................................................... $4,311.00

Deacon Roland Dufrene .................................................. $750.00

Anawin Community .......................................................$4,200.00

Juliette & Eugene Wallace ............................................. $700.00

Harry Booker No. 2 ......................................................... $4,138.00

Deacon Edward J. Blanchard ........................................ $700.00

Msgr. James Songy ....................................................... $4,075.00

Deacon Raymond LeBouef ............................................ $550.00

Kelly Curole Frazier ........................................................ $3,610.96

Paul & Laura Duet ............................................................ $550.00

Mr. & Mrs. John Marmande........................................ $3,500.00

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Cannata ....................................... $500.00

J.R. Occhipinti .................................................................. $3,400.00

Robert Walsh ...................................................................... $500.00

Preston & Gladys Webre.............................................. $3,400.00

Anne Veron Aguirre ......................................................... $380.00

Harry and Karen David Fund ...................................... $9,948.54

Warren J. Harang Jr. No. 2 ........................................... $3,100.00

Deacon Harold Kurtz ....................................................... $300.00

CFSL Seminarian Fund ........................................ $3,607,133.01

The Peltier Foundation Fund ................................... $61,085.00 Viola Ann Wallace Vosbein Memorial Fund ......... $1,000.00 Bishop Sam Jacobs Fund........................................... $31,643.51 Giardina Family Foundation Fund ............................$4,179.51 Msgr. Amedee Fund .................................................$296,797.53

TOTAL Open Burses/Endowment Funds: $4,635,834.51 January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 21

Heavenly Recipes

Veronica Songe

Veronica Cooks a:

QUICK FIX MEAL Story and Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

This month’s heavenly recipe, chicken Rotel, comes from Veronica Songe, tribunal specialist for the diocese. Veronica celebrated 40 years with the diocese in August 2020. “I found this recipe at a horse sale. I tweaked it and made it my own.

Everyone who tries it loves it.” The Lockport native now lives in Raceland and is a parishioner of St. Hilary of Poitiers Church in Mathews.

Veronica enjoys cooking. “I learned to cook from my ex mother-in-law and my maternal grandmother. They were both great cooks. I love to cook soups and gumbos because most of the time they don’t always come out the same. I am somewhat adventurous in my cooking. I love trying new recipes.”

Veronica has an interesting lifestyle. She is an equine rancher. “My grandfather was a cattle farmer and my father was a tie down calf roper. As a child I was raised on a cattle farm and attended rodeos. I always had a horse in my life as long as I can remember. I got my first horse at two … that was to keep me away from my dad’s horses.”

Veronica spent most of her weekends growing up helping her grandfather with his cattle. “When I was four years old, I was in the Cotton Bowl Parade in Dallas, TX, with the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Posse. My dad picked me up from my mom in the crowd and I rode on his horse.”

Veronica is an only child but has many cousins. “I was never lonely as a child. I was the only child of an only child. My mom was also an only child. That meant I got a lot of gifts from my parents and grandparents.”

Veronica had one obstacle in life growing up. “I was born without a leg. Balance was a problem when riding a horse when you have to straddle it. Believe me it’s easier to ride a horse than ride a bicycle with one leg,” she says jokingly. That didn’t stop her from riding horses though. “I would have never been a professional barrel racer but I could ride a horse very 22 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

Chicken Rotel INGREDIENTS: 4 to 6 pieces of chicken (or rotisserie chicken) 4 tbsp. butter 1 can cream of chicken 1 can of Rotel tomatoes, mild 16 oz. of Mexican Velveeta cheese Garlic powder to taste Onion powder to taste Salt Pepper 16 oz. pasta (I prefer penne’ or bowtie) Parmesan cheese (grated)

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Boil 16 ounces of pasta until done. Put in a 9X13 baking dish sprayed with Pam. Boil and debone chicken, if using raw chicken. Cut chicken into bite sized pieces. Simmer in a sauce pan with 4 tbsp. butter, Rotel, cream of chicken and cubed Velveeta. Once the Velveeta is melted add your seasonings. I use 2 tsp. garlic powder, 2 tsp. onion powder, 1 tsp. of salt and 1 tsp. of pepper. Start small and add as you see fit. Pour the cheese mixture over the pasta and mix well. Top with parmesan cheese and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes until bubbly.

well when I was young.

Now that I am older and own a ranch, I don’t ride. There are so many things that you have to do to keep a ranch going that you don’t have time to actually do a lot of riding. I have between 15 and 20 horses at a given time. I buy and sell horses all year long.”

Veronica says she has enjoyed working for the diocese. “I was recruited from college to work here. I started at 19 years old as a young woman. I literally grew up working here. I have had the opportunity to work with wonderful people over the years. I feel like I am truly blessed.” BC

O

More

for primary care right for in primary care your neighborhood

More options right here in your neighborhood.

ptions

Ochsnerfor Family Doctor Clinic – Mathews primary care right

here in your neighborhood.

Ochsner Family Doctor Clinic – Mathews

Michael Marcello, MD

Jack Heidenreich, MD

Andre Duplantis, MD

Megan Hartman, MD

Michael Bacon, MD

Jo Foret, NP

At Ochsner, our primary Ochsner Health Center – Raceland

care team delivers the attention youCenter need to get w Ochsner Health – Lockport Megan Matherne Hartman, MD Jo Foret, NP stay well. Our physicians are dedicated to providing quality care to meet you exact health including annual check-ups, Ochsner immunizations care for Ochsner Health Centerneeds, – Raceland Health Centerand – Lockport and chronic conditions.

Michael Marcello, MD

Jack Heidenreich, MD

Andre Duplantis, MD

Convenient locations near you: Ochsner Health Center – Destrehan Family Ochsner Health Center – Kenner 159 Longview Drive, Suite C1 200 W. Esplanade Avenue, Suite 210 Michelle Lindsey, NP Angelique Torres, APRN Melissa Marcombe, NP Linsey Daigle, NP Mohammad Nawaz, MD Sarah Knight, MD Destrehan, LA 70047 Kenner, LA 70065 Sarah Knight, MD Mohammad Nawaz, MD Angelique Torres, NP Casie Trosclair, NP Lindsay Daigle, NP 504.443.9500 985.764.7669 Available in Lockport & Raceland

At Ochsner St. Anne, our providers are dedicated to providing quality care to meet your

Ochsner Health Center River Parishes OchsnerSt. Health – Driftwood At Ochsner Anne,Center our physicians are dedicated to providing quality care to meet–your personalized health needs, including annual check-ups, immunizations and care for acute and 502 Rue deand Sante, Suite 308 and 2120 Driftwood Boulevard personalized health needs, including annual check-ups, immunizations care for acute chronic conditions.

LaPlace, LA 70068 Kenner, LA 70065 chronic conditions.

504.443.9500 985.652.3500 Our team team is is growing growing to Our to better better serve serveyou. you.We Wewould wouldlike like to to welcome Dr. Sarah Ochsner Health – Luling Ochsner Health Center – LaPlace Medical Knight andCenter Dr. Megan Matherne Hartman. welcome Michael Bacon, MD. 1057 Paul Maillard Road 735 W. 5th Street Luling, LA 70070 LaPlace, LA 70068 Ochsner Family Doctor Clinic – Mathews Ochsner Health Center – Lockport 985.785.3740 Ochsner Family Doctor Clinic – Mathews 985.652.9504 Ochsner Health Center – Lockport 111 AcadiaPark ParkDr.Dr. 111 Acadia Raceland, Raceland, LA LA 70394 70394 985.537.7575 985-537-7575

Ochsner Center –– Raceland Raceland Ochsner Health Health Center 106 Cypress St. St. 106 Cypress Raceland, Raceland, LA LA 70394 70394 985.537.2273 985-537-2273

1015 CrescentAve. Ave. 1015 Crescent Lockport, Lockport, LA LA 70374 70374 985.532.1620 985-532-1620

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 23

Special

ARTWORK BY NORMAN FAUCHEUX

House of Formation to open for men who desire to study for the priesthood Story by Janet Marcel The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s Office of Vocations recently announced that it will be implementing a new concept in the diocese with the opening of a House of Formation. “Saint Joseph’s Workshop” will be a place where men who desire to study for the priesthood will begin their journey before going to the seminary for academic and priestly formation.

Because of drastic changes in society over recent decades, the Roman Curia’s Congregation for the Clergy recognized the need to adapt the church’s approach to forming future priests.

“Because I believe very deeply in the church’s renewed vision of priestly formation from the perspective of life in our modern world,” says Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, “I am excited to inform you that there has been an effort by many people throughout the diocese to provide a house specifically for young men who will be discerning a call to the priesthood.

Because of their generosity for which I am truly grateful, these young men will be able to be formed in this new vision.”

Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis, (The Gift of the Priestly Vocation), updated in December 2016, builds on earlier guidelines issued by the Vatican in 1970 and 24 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

1985. The product of worldwide consultation, the updated document reframes the human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral dimensions of seminary formation — the “four pillars” of formation that were promulgated in Pope St. John Paul II’s 1992 Apostolic Exhortation, Pastores Dabo Vobis (I Will Give You Shepherds).

The document, explains Father Mitchel Semar, diocesan director of Seminarian Formation, speaks of a model of “accompaniment,” which is how Jesus formed the apostles.

When Jesus began to form the church, he invited the apostles, who became the first priests and bishops, to follow him. And for the next few years of their lives they walked with Jesus, listened to him teach, watched the miracles he performed, prayed with him, ate with him, laughed with him and worked with him. Jesus formed these men the way he was formed, by Saint Joseph in his workshop.

This is the model that will be used in the new formation house, which will allow men the opportunity for growth and self-discovery in a propaedeutic (preliminary) stage of formation done separately from formal seminary instruction, while providing a community experience of brother seminarians and priests living in a house together. The

a

Special

yearlong formation program will include human formation, or life skills, such as learning about finances, how to cook, clean, landscape, grow their own vegetables, choose healthy lifestyles, communicate, detach from electronics, conflict resolution, etc. The second thing these young men will focus on is growing in their relationship with Jesus, or spiritual formation, by a committed prayer life which is rooted in the Liturgy of the Hours and the traditions of the church.

“The men will be living with priests, and they will get to see firsthand what the life of a priest is like. This also allows the priest to get to know the young men, to challenge them, and help them discover God’s will for them for their lives,” says Father Semar. “This is the model Jesus used and this will be the model we will use. We will accompany these men and help them grow in their relationship with our Lord.

Once this happens, they will be able to know with much more clarity and certainty whether or not they are called and desire to move on to the next phase of priestly formation.”

The new formation house is located in Thibodaux, about one mile from the campus of Nicholls State University. The house has four seminarian rooms, two priest rooms, a guest room, space for entertaining, an on-site chapel and a large backyard.

For more information about the new Formation House or to contribute financially, please call the diocesan Office of Vocations at (985)850-3129. BC

The U lTimaTe Power S oUrce

985-868-0430

205 VENTURE BLVD HOUMA, LA 70360

WWW.FLEETSUPPLYWHSE.COM January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 25

Special

“Rediscovering Our Faith” is 2021 Annual Bishop’s Appeal theme Story by Janet Marcel “Rediscovering Our Faith,” is the theme of the 2021 Annual Bishop’s Appeal (ABA), which will be introduced in church parishes on the weekend of February 6-7. The 2021 diocesan goal is $900,000.

The funds received from the 2021 ABA will support seminarian education, retired priests of the diocese, youth formation, and the Catholic Schools Office.

Bishop Shelton “Even though this past J. Fabre year has been one of great uncertainty, the ministries in our diocese have continued to serve the faithful in some of the most creative ways,” says Bishop Shelton J. Fabre.

“Those who seek spiritual comfort encounter our Lord in the sacraments made possible through the ministry of our clergy. Our vocations continue to grow and we now have 11 men in the seminary for our diocese. Our educational ministries have ensured that our children lead meaningful lives built on Gospel values and in Christ-centered environments. I ask that you carefully consider the stories from the voices and faces of the ministries supported by this year’s Appeal. Every gift makes a difference and we need the support of every parishioner to make our ministries succeed. If you are able, I ask that you please make a gift to the 2021 Annual Bishop’s Appeal.”

Seminarians As a fifth-year seminarian, Joseph Lapeyrouse looks forward to the day when he can be fully present to his parishioners and be able to accompany them on their journey of faith during their most critical moments in life.

“I know God is calling me to serve the people of our diocese, and I look forward to the day when I will be able to walk Joseph Lapeyrouse with them in their journey of Seminarian faith,” says Lapeyrouse.

Growing up as a parishioner of the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma, 26 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

Lapeyrouse was inspired by clergy whose lives gave active witness to the joys of their vocation. The witness of these priests helped him see the call to be a shepherd to a future flock. Now having the opportunity to study in Rome at the Pontifical North American College, Lapeyrouse will have an advanced degree and will be ordained in 2023. He is excited to say “yes” to God in answering his call to the vocation that God had placed in his heart.

“As much as we are called to minister, people minister to us, and we must help each other grow in relationship to Jesus Christ and in holiness,” adds Lapeyrouse.

Retired Clergy The generosity of our community ensures that retired priests like Father P.J. Madden are cared for and supported through their retirement years. Priests like Father Madden continue to minister to the faithful helping in parishes throughout the diocese.

“It is an honor and a privilege to have been able Rev. P.J. Madden to serve as a priest in this Retired Priest diocese. It has been and continues to be a joy to lead them in their journey to Christ, strengthening their faith to have a strong relationship with God,” says Father Madden.

a

Special

Youth Formation “In all of the challenges of our world today, we must look for new ways to engage our young people. We must find new ways to connect with them and to help them connect with each other. We must find new opportunities that allow them to encounter the love of Jesus personally. We must be ever more creative so that we may help them take steps forward Rebecca Abboud and grow in that relationship,” Liaison and Youth Formation says Rebecca Abboud, liaison Specialist and youth formation specialist for the diocesan Office of Parish Support. “Our young people are worth it, and so our parishes are moving forward in a new approach to the way we form them.”

One of the ways that the Office of Parish Support accompanies pastors and parish leadership is in the area of ministry to the youth. As parishes begin to implement new ways of engaging young people through youth formation, each parish has a liaison from the Office walking with them.

The liaisons provide expertise and best practices so that the entire team is able to effectively support parishes in their youth formation initiatives.

Office of Catholic Schools As the curriculum specialist at St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School in Thibodaux, Jenny Russell works closely with the Catholic Schools Office and the teachers at St. Joseph to build and strengthen teaching and learning in the classroom.

“The Catholic Schools Office works closely with our teacherministers and our school Jenny Russell administrators to provide Curriculum Specialist educational opportunities to grow both spiritually and academically. We have the opportunity to collaborate with other schools to share ideas and grow together,” says Russell.

Those who wish to contribute to the 2021Annual Bishop’s Appeal can choose to make a one-time gift or use the pledge system in which they can make monthly or quarterly contributions. Donations can also be made on-line by visiting www.htdiocese.org/bishopsappeal. A video which includes the bishop’s message and how the funds will be used is available to view on the diocesan website.

For more information about the Annual Bishop’s Appeal, call (985)850-3122. BC

Buy Now * Our products meet the NSF® testing standards

Rod’s supeRstoRe Name BraNd TV & appliaNces 879-2403

Rod’s supeRstoRe Name BraNd TV & appliaNces 879-2403

808 Barrow St. • Houma, LA 70360 January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 27

January Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons and Seminarians

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1 January

2

Very Rev. Jay Baker

Rev. Paul Birdsall

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Rev. Rusty Bruce

Rev. Toto Buenaflor Jr.

Rev. Duc Bui

Rev. Joseph Chacko

Deacon Glenn Porche

Rev. Cody Chatagnier

Rev. Carl Collins

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

Rev. Van Constant

Rev. Robert-Joel Cruz

Very Rev. Vicente De La Cruz, V.F.

Rev. Dean Danos

Seminarian Chad Cheramie

Rev. Sovi Devasia

Rev. Daniel Duplantis

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

Msgr. Cletus Egbi

Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait, V.G.

Rev. Gregory Fratt

Rev. Alex Gaudet

Rev. Rholando Grecia

Rev. Brice Higginbotham

Deacon Chris Prestenback

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Rev. Rajasekar Karumelnathan

Rev. Noas Kerketta

Rev. Thomas Kuriakose

Rev. Baby Kuruvilla

Seminarian Brayden Dantin

Rev. Brett Lapeyrouse

Rev. Robert Rogers

31 Rev. Billy Velasco

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

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

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

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

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

Sponsored by:

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

28 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

Announcement

raises over $900,000 in diocese

By JANET MARCEL The Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana recently hosted its 5th annual #iGiveCatholic campaign, a 24-hour online giving challenge that celebrates the work of Catholic church parishes, ministries, schools and other charitable organizations within the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

“Despite this year being extraordinarily difficult for our parishioners and the local economy, our Catholic faithful came together as one community to support our many local ministries,” says Amy Ponson, executive director of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana. “With over 1,650 donors, more than $900,000 was raised for our local church parishes, schools and non-profits.”

The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux raised the second highest figure of all Louisiana dioceses, and was ranked within the top five nationally.

“None of this would be possible without the prayers and support of our community members, and for that we are incredibly grateful,” says Bishop Shelton J. Fabre. “I want to personally thank the generous people of our diocese for their outpouring of love, prayers and financial gifts for 2020’s Giving Tuesday. I am humbled by you, each of our beloved parishioners; it is your prayers and generosity that will assist our ministries in accomplishing many projects across our diocese.”

Because of your support, reports Ponson, diocesan church parishes, schools and ministries will be able to: n Replace the roof at Holy Cross Church in Morgan City;

n Provide an interactive playground for the students at St. Genevieve Catholic School in Thibodaux; n Renovate the flooring and pews at St. Bridget Church in Schriever; n Purchase a generator for the Catholic Community Center in Galliano ensuring the food in the food bank is cared for during disasters; n Renovate the first floor classrooms at Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma; n Upgrade the water heater and sewage system at Holy Rosary Catholic School in Larose; n And, so much more … check out the leaderboard and the projects at https://houma-thibodaux.igivecatholic.org/.

Nationally, over $12.4 million was raised for 1,668 ministries – making this the most successful Catholic crowdfunding event to date. #iGiveCatholic is held each year in conjunction with #GivingTuesday, which is celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) and the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday; #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving.

For more information about #iGiveCatholic, visit catholicfoundationsl.org or call (985) 850-3116. BC

Happy New Year and Stay Safe!

c o r p o r at e l aW ~ W i l l s & s u c c e s s i o n s ~ e s tat e p l a n n i n g ~ r e a l e s tat e

Daniel J. Walker William A. Eroche Daniel L. Hoychick 1340 W est t unnel B lvd ., s uite 306 H ouma , l ouisiana 985.868.2333 ~ WWelaW . com

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

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

Book Reviews

Reading With Raymond Raymond Saadi

Perestroika in Paris

By Jane Smiley Knopf $26.95 What a marvelous imagination the author has. Imagine touring the most inviting locations in Paris guided by a racehorse, a dog, a pair of delightful ducks and a raven with a mind of its own. Paras, short for Perestroika, had just won her big race and everyone, her jockey, trainer, everyone, were off to celebrate, except her groom, Rania, last to leave and unaccountably, leaving the stall door unlocked. Paras, much to her surprise, found she could now leave her stall and venture through the city finding new friends along the way.

What happens to this curious group of sight seekers will delight young and older readers. BC

The Sentinel

Face to Face

By Lee and Andrew Child Penguin Random House $28.99

By Camilla Grant Knopf $75

Whenever Jack Reacher finds himself stranded in a small town, he finds trouble. More exactly, trouble finds him, and Jack is not shy about taking it head on, starting on one night with a bar operator cheating his band or the next day, sending four bums flying for attacking one helpless guy. That guy he learns is Rusty Rutherford, the most hated man in town blamed for the breakdown of everything in town … the town is kidnapped, ransom demanded; Rusty, the IT guy is blamed. But Reacher’s not buying it and proceeds to find the kidnappers. BC

This oversized, heavyweight volume is remarkable only for the faces it does not include since the face of every celebrity or would-be celebrity has been seen as familiar as the photos on Mama’s wall. Yet what’s so refreshing about the photographs in this voluminous volume is that even those pictures appear to have a “just taken” look. Here are the famous and infamous, at work and at play, on guard and off. Candid shots the way we’d like to have ours look. Here’s a lot to enjoy and learn. BC

The Bright Book of Life

People Who Love to Eat Are Always the Best People

By Harold Bloom Knopf $35

Where was Harold Bloom when I really needed him back in school? I sure could have referenced a volume like this (just as I do now.) In those ancient days we relied on Cliff Notes to give us a head start on a book’s content, a quick skim and you were at least in the ballpark. Professor Bloom, on the other hand, gives readers a strong urge to actually read the book and once there, he guides them over the bumps.

And guess what? They find reading is fun! BC

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

By Julia Child Knopf $18.95 And now, for our dessert, Julia Child dishes (pun intended) up bon mots with tips on, “Butter, don’t ever forget it, the French never do.” “I was 39 when I started cooking; up until then I just ate.” “No matter what happens in the kitchen, never apologize.” The absolutely perfect gift for any hostess or occasion. BC

The collection will be held February 6 and 7.

Thank you for your generosity.

Announcement

Diocesan wedding anniversary couples

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre presided over two wedding anniversary celebrations recently at St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux. Two celebrations were held because of the restrictions in place regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic. The diocese honored 145 couples.

In photo at left, celebrating 40 years is Philip and Lisa Prejeant Whitman, St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles Community; and celebrating 50 years is Leroy and Gayle Hebert Chenier, Christ the Redeemer, Thibodaux. In photo at right, celebrating 25 years is Dean and Trudy Foret Barrios, Holy Savior Lockport; and celebrating 65 years is Louis III and Shirley LeRay Adams, St. Genevieve, Thibodaux.

Life is great ~

Get busy living.

Independent Living Community

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

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

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

868-3920 terminix-houma.com

Announcement

Curriculum specialist named for Catholic schools

Gerrie Byrne

Gerrie Byrne, who has been serving as the assistant principal at Central Catholic School in Morgan City, has been named the new curriculum specialist for the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

The Morgan City native attended Sacred Heart Elementary School in Morgan City and graduated from Central Catholic High School. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in speech, language and hearing from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux. In 1996, she earned teaching certification and, in 2015, received a master’s degree in educational leadership from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. Byrne has been serving in the Catholic school system for over 25 years. She taught at Holy Cross Elementary School, and at Central Catholic, where she served as curriculum director before being named assistant principal.

Byrne has been married to Gerard Byrne Jr. for nearly 30 years, and they have two children, Caroline and Blake.

They are members of Sacred Heart Church parish, and also have close ties to Holy Cross Church.

“Gerrie’s outstanding work ethic, dedication and passion for the ministry of Catholic education make her a wonderful addition to our Catholic Schools team! I look forward to working with her as we support our schools in the growth and formation of our students,” says Suzanne Troxclair, diocesan superintendent of Catholic Schools. BC January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 33

Special

Reflections of 150 years of Catholic education at St. Francis de Sales Story by Janet Marcel Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier In 1870, the Marianite Sisters of Holy Cross arrived in Houma and opened the first Catholic school in Terrebonne Parish, a school for girls that was named the Academy of the Sacred Heart. The name was later changed to match the church parish of St. Francis de Sales.

At the request of the people of the area, additional sisters arrived in 1890 to begin educating boys. In 1952, the Marianite Sisters were joined by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. With the opening of Houma Central Catholic School (later renamed Vandebilt Catholic High School) in 1965, St. Francis de Sales School transitioned to an elementary school for students through seventh grade.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and limitations on the number of people allowed to gather, the 11 a.m. Sunday Mass on Oct. 11 was celebrated at the Cathedral to mark the actual anniversary date.

“With the many challenges placed before us during 2020, the 150th anniversary celebration honoring St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School has had many changes over the course of planning,” says Kelli Cazayoux, who has been serving as the school’s principal since the 2017-18 school 34 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

year. “Despite the realignment of schedules to accommodate current COVID-19 guidelines, our beloved SFCS’s 150th anniversary has been recognized throughout this school year. The milestone is too important to not celebrate.

Serving as principal during the 150th anniversary year is such an honor. Following in the footsteps of the amazing individuals who have previously held this position is no easy task. Through my faith, prayer, and the team effort with all of the faculty, the ‘Tradition of Excellence’ continues.”

Very Rev. Jay L. Baker, pastor of the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales who attended St. Francis School and graduated from Vandebilt Catholic High School, says that although there wasn’t any specific moment or incident he had while attending St. Francis that influenced his decision to become a priest, the way the Marianite Sisters lived did have a lasting impact on his life.

“Sister Mary Anna Finney taught us music and I still remember all the words to “Erie Canal!” In my mind’s eye, I can still see her veil fluttering in the wind while she was riding her bike! My bus (No. 9) had the dubious distinction of being the first bus to arrive each morning and the very

a

Special

last bus to leave in the afternoon. Sister Janet Bodin had bus duty and she was always there, ever-present to us. For my ordination, Sister Danita Larriviere and Sister Kateri Battaglia boarded my friends from seminary in the convent for several days and hosted a spaghetti dinner for us all the night before. A picture of them with my brother and sister and me in our home from the party after my ordination is still in the living room at home. Sister Carmelita Centanni often refers to former students of any Marianite school as ‘ours.’ They truly made us feel that way,” says Father Baker.

The pastor says that occasionally he was even given a glimpse behind the doors of the convent and into the secret, mysterious lives of the Marianites. “I was able to carry Sister Bernadette’s books from the library and place them on the table in the community room in the convent. That table now sits in our money-counting room at the rectory.

The same money-counting room to which Mama, as a senior, reported every Monday morning to count the weekend’s collection … full circle.”

Thinking ahead to his homily for the 150th anniversary Mass, Father Baker offers the following reflections: “When the staff of the Office of Communications moved out of the St. Francis de Sales Convent a couple of years ago, it was brought to my attention that Room 221 had once served as the convent’s office. In that room was an undisturbed cabinet above the closet. When I opened the door, I discovered the cabinet to be chock-full. Curious as to what I was seeing, I stepped up on a chair and pulled out the first book I could reach on the top of the stack. I thumbed through the pages of names, dates, details. The first name atop the last page written on was Mama’s. A sense of peace in this place overcame me.

“As it turns out, this cabinet was a veritable treasure trove of letters, journals, ledgers and receipts. Some of the items dated as far back as the late 1800s, the earliest of which were beautifully penned in French. Interestingly enough, I had a similar sense as we were closing out the 2019-20 school year virtually this past May. Leaving the front office, the assistant principal handed me a stack of yellowed newspaper articles which her parents had kept about St. Francis from Terrebonne Parish’s

Sesquicentennial in 1972 – they were among the things people were cleaning out in the midst of our Stay-at-Home Order. Even upside down, I recognized Mama in the picture of her early 1950s basketball team on top of the stack. She was the tall girl in the middle, the spitting image of my sister. Again, I sensed that things had come full circle.

“A lot of people are still dying of COVID-19 and many others are mourning their loss. Many more are grieving the loss of autonomy, the freedom to move about at will.

An unprecedented number of people have lost jobs. We can easily feel insecure about the future, unsure about our finances. We can be exhausted from so much loss; there’s a constant heaviness on our hearts. Where do we go from here? What is the way forward? What will the path back to normalcy be for us?

“As awkward and uncertain as we may feel, we are not

a

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 35

Special

the first people to feel this way. It’s just the first time we have all felt this way, at this time, together with so many others across the globe. But we are not the first. I can’t help but think of the Marianites of Holy Cross who began our school 150 years ago in a dilapidated building which had stood vacant from the end of the war. Eight years in, Yellow Fever struck Louisiana. The sisters were prevented from traveling to New Orleans for their annual retreat because they were living under quarantine. School was even delayed one month in opening so that the quarantine could expire thus allowing the students who lived outside the city limits to travel into Houma for class. Then, just two years later, in the 1880-81 school year, there were two severe snow storms on the heels of heavy continuous rains which damaged the convent roof such that plaster fell in the dormitories, the hallways, and the Chapel. And that’s not the worst of it: In an attempt to escape the biblically bad weather, snakes infested the school.

“When else have people felt like this before? How about the Spanish Flu Pandemic 100 years ago? The Great Depression? World War II, which saw over 75 million deaths? The oil bust in the late ‘80s/early ‘90s? What about 9/11 when the Twin Towers fell? Hurricane Katrina? The 2008 Recession? Hurricane Harvey? Or, if you’re more sentimental: Hurricanes Audrey, Hilda, Betsy and Camille?

A few alumni were asked to share their fondest memory of St. Francis School and who influenced them the most while there. Following are some of their memories.

My days as a student at St. Francis will be cherished forever. I can easily say that many of my fondest memories revolved around the book fair as they still do to this day.

I love watching my students discover new stories to bring home and enjoy with their families. When I think of a teacher who influenced me the most, my Project Read teacher, Barbara Vice, comes to mind instantly. She was an incredible mentor who opened the door to the world of reading for me. Because of her overwhelming belief in her students, she managed to make a librarian out of a struggling reader.

Sarah Macnamara Rodrigue, 2010 *** I’m not sure I have one fondest memory of my time at St. Francis. We moved back to Houma from New Orleans when I was in 5th grade, so I was there for three years. I do remember loving going to school with so many cousins and 36 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

neighbors. In Terrytown, I went to Christ the King, which was also a Marianite school, but we had no relatives there.

Being at St. Francis was being “home.” The Marianites who were there were certainly a big influence on me in a positive way. It was their joy of life, compassion and humanness that allowed me to be open to the idea of religious life for myself.

Sister Renée Daigle, M.S.C. *** Choir practice with Sister Fabian in the small music room off the porch was always one of my favorite things as I loved music and loved to sing. Of course we always had our “comedy session” at the beginning when Sister Fabian, yes, a Frenchman who thought mostly about music, would get the members settled – “Betty Jean, take those gums out of your mouth!” (meaning the chewing gum.) Having been in the orchestra (I played violin) and taking private piano lessons from Sister Fabian, I realized what a great accomplished musician she was. Another favorite was the gatherings and programs in the large hall of the convent when the Reverend Mother or other dignitaries visited. We were dismissed early and a holiday declared for the rest of the day.

Jeanne Bourg Wurzlow, 1944 *** Probably my fondest memory of SFS is how proud I felt going into the gym for basketball games and proudly watching my brothers play in the games. Also, meeting people that would become lifelong friends. Sister Conleth was definitely the most influential. Although a strict disciplinarian, she was an excellent teacher. I learned more that year than possibly all the years combined. Lol! Mary Beth Keife Pyles, 1967 *** My fondest memory of SFS is the Halloween Bazaar. The people who influenced me the most are Mrs. Connie Leonard and Mrs. Celeste Goodwin. There are too many to name, but I think about those two women a lot and how I got to be where I am today.

Maddie Cronan, 2010 *** On Monday, Jan. 25, the day after the feast of St. Francis de Sales, there will be grade-level appropriate lessons about the life of St. Francis de Sales and the school’s 150th anniversary. “Through prayer,” says the principal, “everyone will give thanks for the school community; and we hope to continue the shaping of missionary disciples within the community for many years to come.” BC

Sports

Overtime Ed Daniels

Retooled Saints are a complete team The transformation of the New Orleans Saints is complete.

The Saints have come full circle, from a team that depended on big passing numbers from their Hall of Fame quarterback, to a complete team.

It is a team with an outstanding kicking game, a defense that is one of

the more improved in football, and a running game that features both Alvin Kamara and Latavius Murray running behind a young, but still experienced offensive line.

With a win at Atlanta Dec. 6, and a sweep of the season series with the Falcons without Drew Brees at quarterback, the Saints won their first eight games over the past two seasons without Brees in the lineup.

In 2014 through 2016, the Saints won seven games each season, with a pass happy offense.

In 2016, Brees threw for 5,208 yards.

One year later, he threw for 4,334.

And, a year later, Brees’ numbers went down again, to 3,992 passing yards.

In 2019, Drew Brees did not have a 400 yard passing game.

His last 400 yard passing game was when he threw for 439 yards in a 4840 loss to Tampa Bay to open the 2018 season.

Meantime, the Saints have retooled their offense with a series of outstanding personnel decisions.

The Saints traded up to draft running back Alvin Kamara and center Erik McCoy. New Orleans traded wide receiver Brandin Cooks, and turned the pick acquired, No. 32 in the first round of 2017 into offensive tackle Ryan Ramcyzk.

Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas, who has missed six games this season, is still the fastest player in NFL history to 500 catches, achieving the feat in his 69th NFL game.

Thomas was the 47th selection in the 2016 draft.

The Saints have used a first round pick or their first pick in a draft to choose an offensive lineman in four of the last six years.

Ramcyzk, McCoy, and guards Andrus Peat and Cesar Ruiz have helped completely change the Saints identity.

The Saints are second in the NFL in time of possession at over 32 minutes a game.

On the road, that number grows to almost 34 minutes a game.

And, because of the Saints ability to run the football, and master the short passing game, the defense has had fewer possessions to defend.

As good as those numbers are, and that New Orleans had won 10 of its first 12 games, still leaves questions unanswered.

Does this football play in the playoffs?

Can the Saints win another Super Bowl with Drew Brees?

And, can the winning continue long after Brees retires? BC

Your personal financial goals deserve a personal approach.

Walters & Associates A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC 985.446.1968 132 Rue Colette, Ste A Thibodaux, LA 70301 waltersplanning.com

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 37

Catholic Schools Week

Jan. 31-Feb. 6

38 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

Catholic Schools Week

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Catholic School Administrator-Ministers

Marissa Bagala

Peter Boudreaux

Kelli Cazayoux

Michelle Chiasson

Jeremy Gueldner

Lydia Landry

Cathy Long

Dr. Cindy Martin

Tim Robichaux

Gerard Rodrigue Jr.

Amanda Talbot

St. Mary’s Nativity

President, Vandebilt

Ginny Medina-Hamilton

Central Catholic

St. Bernadette

Vandebilt

President, E.D. White

Cheryl Thibodaux

Tricia Thibodaux

St. Genevieve

St. Francis

Holy Rosary

St. Joseph

E.D. White

St. Gregory

Central Catholic

Holy Savior

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 39

Catholic Schools Week

Catholic Schools:

Faith. Excellence. Service.

From the Superintendent Suzanne D. Troxclair

The year 2020 has, indeed, been a year like no other. Our day-to-day activities, roles and actions changed.

For many of us, typical routines and practices that we often took for granted suddenly came to a screeching halt over nine months ago. On March 13, we exited our brick and mortar schools in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and embarked on a weeks-long virtual journey of Catholic education to complete the 2019-2020 school year.

On that Friday in March—a day that, under normal circumstances would have been filled with family, church and the typical activities we cram into the Saturdays and Sundays following a busy school week—we feverishly made accommodations for our children and aging family members, prepared workspaces for our children to complete assignments or for our own remote work environments, stockpiled supplies we believed were sure to become difficult to find, and settled in to what we believed would be a few weeks of alternate practices until we could return to life as we knew it.

Today, nine months later, in the midst of a world-wide pandemic, we reflect on the incredible faith journey we have experienced in the Catholic Church and, particularly, in the ministry of Catholic education in our diocese. And, oh, what a journey it has been!

To begin, the task of a successful completion to the 2019-2020 school

year began before March 13. In the weeks leading up to the last day of inperson instruction, the administrators, faculties, and staffs in our Catholic schools worked creatively to ensure that our students would have the ability to successfully complete the academic year and be supported in that process. New ground for everyone, our school families worked together and embraced this alternate method of teaching and learning as our schools completed an unprecedented semester.

During the summer months, as it became evident that our typical return to school would not be possible, a Returnto-School Task Force was created that included teachers, administrators, parents, medical professionals, human resource representatives, clergy, diocesan leadership and various other representatives. Through much research and due diligence, this team developed guidelines to assist our schools in planning their safe return to the classroom for the 2020-2021 school year.

In alignment with the Centers for Disease Control, the State of Louisiana and its Department of Health, the Louisiana Department of Education, as well as our insurers and diocesan leadership team, each school utilized diocesan guidelines to develop and implement their approved Returnto-School plans for their campuses.

Passionate about the importance of inperson teaching and learning for our students, our schools worked to create safe environments that incorporated the mitigation practices necessary to maintain in-class instruction.

Keeping the heart and purpose of our ministry in the forefront, schools prepared their physical plants in compliance with the necessary health and safety guidelines to allow for our students to attend school in brick

40 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

and mortar buildings. Whether it was relocating classes to gyms or libraries to maintain appropriate social distancing, employing additional staff members to accommodate the necessary sanitation of desks and learning spaces, or developing comprehensive schedules to ensure all students and adults entering the schools would have their temperature checked and be appropriately screened, our school families overcame the many challenges successfully.

Simultaneously, while school employees were preparing the schools, parents were purchasing approved face coverings for their children, planning for transportation until public bus transportation would be available and able to accommodate all who utilized it, and giving of their own time, talents and treasure to assist the schools in preparing for the safe start to the new year. Whether through the donations of needed items, such as bottled water, or by assisting in building sanitation stations for door entrances, our school families showed incredible commitment to the ministry as they worked collaboratively for the success of the ministry. No matter how daunting the task, our school families kept their eyes firmly fixed on our Lord, Jesus Christ, and trusted him to walk with us.

This month, as we celebrate the ministry of Catholic education in a very intentional way during National Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 31-Feb. 6, we reflect and pray in thanksgiving for an incredibly successful semester in which our students were able to continue in-class instruction in our diocese. Beyond the never-before challenges we are facing due to the pandemic, our schools have also walked with others in neighboring dioceses and schools as an

a

Catholic Schools Week

unprecedented hurricane season altered their “new normal.” Armed with the faith and hope of Jesus, students continue to use and share their Godgiven talents with their school, church and larger communities.

Indeed, we have so much to be thankful for. This year’s theme for National Catholic Schools Week is Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence.

Service.

This theme concisely envelopes the impact of the ministry of Catholic education in the formation of our students. Even a global pandemic cannot stop the work of our Father! In celebration of all that is beautiful and good in our children, below are a few examples of the schools in the diocese are living the mission of our church through their Faith, Excellence and Service over the past year: Faith: n Understanding the importance of communal worship, school Masses are held at least twice weekly to accommodate more students under the guidelines of size gatherings and social distancing at St. Bernadette Catholic Elementary. n On the school’s Worship Wednesdays, using personal Bibles generously gifted to them by the Peltier Foundation, St. Joseph Catholic Elementary students worship through word and song as they reflect on Sunday’s Gospel reading each week. n Fostering a culture of virtuous leadership in the school community, Central Catholic School has engaged their school families through active participation in SportsLeader’s Virtue=Strength program.

Excellence: n Each year, schools select an outstanding fifth, eighth and 12fth grader as its Student of the Year.

These students go on to compete in district, regional and state competition as part of the Louisiana Department of Education’s Students of the Year Program. St. Genevieve’s Jonah Waguespack was selected as the fifth grade winner of all nonpublic schools in the state, naming him a State Finalist in the 2020 Students of the Year program.

n Through the cultivation of talent and work ethic, E.D. White Catholic High School earned four Louisiana High School Athletic Association sports titles in one week for both Class 3A boys and girls cross country and Division III swimming. n This year, the National Junior Beta Club awarded Holy Rosary Catholic School the National Beta School of Distinction Award, recognizing the school’s increase in membership and student involvement.

With these increases, Holy Rosary is strengthening a pathway to improved academic performance and character development, two hallmark qualities of the organization. n At St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School, 43 percent of the seventh grade class qualified to participate in the Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP), allowing these students the opportunity to take the ACT to qualify for participation in enrichment programs for academically gifted and talented students. n Academic excellence is a pillar of our National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools. In Vandebilt Catholic High School’s Class of 2020, 29 students were awarded the Sacred Heart Scholar Award for achieving a score of 30 or higher on the ACT. Service: n In the aftermath of Hurricane

Laura, the schools in our diocese partnered with the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Lake Charles to offer aid and assistance. Holy Savior Catholic School collected and delivered cleaning supplies and toiletries to their partner school, Our Lady’s Catholic School in Sulphur. n During Advent each year, St. Gregory School conducts a Baby Shower for Jesus, collecting baby items that are donated to Bright Beginnings, an emergency homeless shelter in Terrebonne Parish that also supports its participants through additional services as they work toward selfsufficiency. During the school’s “baby shower,” students unwrap their gifts (baby supplies) brought for the shelter and present them to baby Jesus.

The items are used for the shelter participants. n Understanding the financial hardships that follow a natural disaster, as well as the importance of community workers, St. Mary’s Nativity School families supported residents and first responders in Hackberry, a community near Lake Charles, through their collections of food and cleaning supplies. Working in partnership with St. Mary’s, area firefighters delivered the collected supplies to residents and first responders of Hackberry.

As we reflect upon the impact of 2020 in our schools and embrace the new year, we can look to the words of Pope Francis, as he led his general audience from the Library of the Apostolic Palace in August. “Within the Christian tradition, faith, hope and charity are much more than feelings or attitudes.

They are virtues infused in us through the grace of the Holy Spirit: Gifts that heal us and that make us healers, gifts that open us to new horizons, even while we are navigating the difficult waters of our time.”

May we use those gifts as we continue to pray for the ongoing strengthening and commitment to Catholic education, working together in the formation of the children we serve. May our Lord, Jesus Christ walk beside you and bless you in 2021. BC

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 41

Faith Family 1870 2020 day Forever F terday Toda cellence Yes Family Excel 40% ever Faith Fa Today Foreve Yesterday T Finalist 4X ly Excellenc CELEBRATING Catholic Schools Week Faith Family VANDEBILT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

For 150 years Vandebilt Catholic High School has been committed to spiritual formation and academic excellence in an environment rooted in Catholic values and in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Within the context of a caring and orderly atmosphere, Vandebilt Catholic offers a college preparatory curriculum and stresses a personal approach to the education of the whole student through diverse academic, athletic, and co-curricular programs.

The 2020-2021 school year marks the 150th anniversary of the opening of the first Catholic school in Houma, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart by the Marianites of Holy Cross with an enrollment of 25 girls. The school’s name was changed to St. Francis de Sales Academy in 1879 and boys were admitted for the first time in 1890. With the arrival of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in the early 1950s, the school divided into St. Francis de Sales Boys’ and St. Francis de Sales Girls’ High Schools. As enrollment increased in the 1950s and 1960s, a new facility was needed, and the two schools merged in 1965 under the name Houma Central Catholic High School. In 1966 the school was dedicated as Vandebilt Catholic High School, named in the memory of Fr. August Vandebilt who was a longtime pastor of St. Francis de Sales Church.

The mission of Vandebilt Catholic High School is to provide students with a holistic education that is rooted in religious values, structured through friendly discipline, nurtured by personal attention, and committed to academic excellence.

Nearly

of our current teachers and faculty are proud Katie Anderson ‘02 and Laurie Vandebilt Catholic Robichaux ‘84 both VCHS alumni who now share faculty members, with their sons, Caleb Calhoun the mission and values of and Jackson Robichaux, 2020 their alma mater with the graduates next generation.

2 year winner and

Bayou’s Best of the Best for Best Private School in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes.

January 31 - February 6

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

y Excellence Yesterday To Vandebilt Catholic: Faith Family Excellence Yes ay35 Forever Faith7Family Ex 15 sports sterday Today Forever Faith llence Yesterday Today For amily Excellence Yesterday 24.2 150 er Faith Family Excellenc Today Forever Faith Fami ce Yesterday Toda Forever y Excellence Yesterday To A Catholic School of Faith, Excellence, and Service.

Vandebilt Catholic considers clubs, organizations, sports, and activities an important part in the development of the whole person and offers

co-curricular activities and

Since 2010,

Terrebonne Parish Teenagers of the Year have been Vandebilt Catholic seniors.

for students to participate in, including Catholic-based groups such as campus ministry and pro-life club.

Katherine Bonvillain, 2020 Graduate and 2019 Terrebonne Parish Teenager of the Year

JV Jazz team members on the sideline of a home football game

Each Vandebilt Catholic student receives approximately hours of faith instruction per year through daily religion classes.

The ACT average composite score from the VCHS class of 2020 was

which was nearly 6 points higher than the state average and almost 4 points higher than the national average.

Catholic spirituality and Christian values are also integrated into the curriculum through annual Christmas and Lenten projects, class retreats, and school-wide liturgies.

Students attending the national March for Life in Washington, D.C.

PLACEMENT TEST January 9, 2021

REGISTRATION February 1-12, 2021

Nicole Pellegrin, 2020 Graduate and 2019 National Merit Finalist and Sacred Heart Scholar recipient (30+ ACT score)

If you would like a private tour, please contact Mrs. Kayla Vicknair, Director of Admissions at 985-876-2551.

For more information, please visit www.vandebiltcatholic.org.

Vandebilt does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or ethnicity.

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 43

Traditional

3

Skills

Advanced

learning tracks to best meet each student’s needs

7 Performing Groups 20 Clubs & Organizations 59 Sports Teams 523 Student Athletes of the 59 faculty members have a Master’s, Master’s +30 or PhD degree

25 E.D. White students join our school family from

different civil parishes

5

7,459 EDW Alumni

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

108

of 134 Class of 2020 graduates qualified for the TOPS scholarship

100% of students are known, valued and treasured

Founded in

1965

by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart & Sisters of Mt. Carmel

The Class of 2020 amassed

$3.4 M in scholarship monies

Faith Excellence Service

16

Honors & AP Courses

Co-ed enrollment of

689 in grades 8-12

2021-2022 Registration

February 22-March 5, 2021 January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 45

CENTRAL CATHOLIC where Central Catholic School in Morgan City fosters a Christ-centered atmosphere with a focus on faith formation, academic excellence, and service development in pre-kindergarten through high school. We provide students, faculty and parents with opportunities for faith, excellence and service.

Students at Central Catholic are forming and sharing their faith by participating in weekly Mass, having organizations for students to participate in such as Sisters in Christ and the Campus Ministry/Retreat Team, facilitating grade level retreats, praying throughout the day, leading a Living Rosary annually, and hosting a community Christmas Pageant. Central Catholic is also excited to implement a program this year called Virtue=Strength, which is a Catholic virtue-based formation program for Catholic schools. Our students create cards for our community leaders—police, fire and medical personnel—as well as our veterans. During Lent, students visit and pray with elderly or ill members of our community.

Mrs. Amanda Talbot, Elementary Principal (985)384-1933 46 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

2100 Cedar Street Morgan City, LA 70380

Mr. Peter Boudreaux, High School Principal (985)385-5372

students strive to lead by faith, excellence, service

Central Catholic students are afforded many opportunities to excel in many areas. We have a 1 to 1 student to iPad ratio, Chromebooks, STEM classes, and AP opportunities. Central Catholic also offers Senior and Junior BETA as well as National Honor Society. We have Million Word Readers in addition to having finalist in the Spelling Bee, Hometown Spirit Art contest, St. Mary Parish Art Show and Literary Rally. Central Catholic students, faculty and staff focus on service to others by generously donating food items for Thanksgiving baskets; helping with hurricane relief efforts; collecting coats for the needy; donating and packing items for shoeboxes for underprivileged children around the world through Box of Joy to educate them about Jesus Christ; providing nursing home residents with clothing and personal items; collecting toys around Christmas for Toys for Tots; collecting items for the needy during Lent through a program through Holy Cross Church called Operation Lent, as well as many other service opportunities throughout our community.

At Central Catholic, each child is seen as a unique gift from God, and all missions are possible with God. Central Catholic embodies the theme of Catholic Schools Week, Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.

If you want your child to receive spiritual formation and academic excellence, consider Central Catholic. Your children and your family will be enriched by the experience of a Central Catholic education!

Central Catholic admits students regardless of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin.

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 47

Catholic Schools Week

48 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

Catholic Schools Week

Holy Savior Catholic School

Encouraging students to be engaged citizens and faithful disciples for 141 years

art and self-help skills, as well as fine and gross motor skills.

Holy Savior is made up of all those who have been a part of it since 1879. We are grateful for the support and dedication of those who believe in Catholic education. It is because of you—and God’s grace—that Holy Savior will continue to create self-motivated, lifelong learners who positively impact their families, their communities, their country, the church and the world. BC

For 141 years, Holy Savior Catholic School in Lockport has been devoted to providing students with the foundation needed to unite their own hearts to the heart of Jesus Christ as engaged citizens and faithful disciples.

Bishop Shelton J. Fabre says, “to love as God loves, we must see as God sees.” This statement embodies what we are called to do as Christians and our calling at Holy Savior as ministers of Christ through Catholic education. The mission of our school calls for us to see the worth of every student, parent and teacher, and to encounter them the way Christ would. By doing this, we spread God’s love throughout our community. Therefore, we strive to live out our mission this year through our 2020-2021 theme: “Love as God loves.”

Even during a year which is so different from any other, our school has embraced this theme, continuing to encounter Christ through others. The need for truly encountering others has fueled our commitment to being present on our campus in a way that is safe and fosters growth.

Within our school, eucharistic adoration is made available to all classes in the school chapel throughout the school day once each month. Students continue to attend weekly Mass and receive religious instruction daily. The Christian Leadership Club has also formed on our campus, giving students the opportunity to perform “above-and-beyond” service projects within our school and community. Our teachers have fully embraced and built upon this year’s theme in their own unique ways in each classroom. In November, our 4-H Club held a canned food drive to collect non-perishable items which were used to create Thanksgiving baskets for the less fortunate in our community. We have been blessed to have the support and presence of our local priests with our children throughout this unusual year.

Despite changes made to ensure COVID-19 safety in the classroom, the pursuit of academic excellence has not been compromised. Our dedicated teachers continue to use various innovative teaching strategies and integrate technology through use of classroom computers, Promethean ActivBoards, and our 1:1 Chromebook Program in 1st through 5th grade. Holy Savior offers several enrichment classes, including technology, music and library, all of which have found innovative ways to safely continue—including library-on-a-cart and outdoor band classes. Our nursery students continue to grow as learners through a curriculum which focuses on the development of reading, math, science, January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 49

Catholic Schools Week

Holy Rosary Catholic School

Recognizes Christ as the heart of its mission Holy Rosary Catholic School (HRCS) in Larose is blessed to be covered with the Mantle of Mary, our mother in heaven. Through her intercession and by teaching the Gospel message of Jesus Christ, HRCS recognizes students’ talents and abilities and strives to develop their highest potential.

Quality academics in a safe, nurturing, Christ-centered environment is offered to students two years old through eighth grade.

Holy Rosary Catholic School continues to carry out the mission of the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception who began offering a Catholic education to the South Lafourche community in 1963. The current administrator, Cathy Long, and a united teaching staff, are dedicated to providing a quality education that combines our Catholic faith and teachings along with academic excellence. The school sets high standards for achievement and assists our students in developing a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Selective enrichment programs help to provide a balanced foundation which integrates faith, social and physical development along with service opportunities which focus on the seven Catholic Social Challenges and Directions presented by the U.S. Catholic Bishops. The goal of these programs is to help students grow in faith and wisdom while preparing them to be productive citizens and leaders.

Programs include: DARE, social studies fair, award-winning 4-H and Jr. Beta club, Altar Servers, Nativity Play, Passion Play, Literary Rally, along with numerous art and essay contests.

Holy Rosary recognizes Christ as the heart of its mission.

Traditions of an active and exemplary religious program are professed through weekly liturgies, monthly adoration, and daily instruction in the Catholic faith, service clubs, and its mission work. HRCS is recognized as an instrumental supporter of Veterans, the Holy Childhood Association, Knights of Columbus and St. Vincent de Paul Society, to name a few. The school expands its faith experiences in the school chapel and Jesus Prayer Garden.

The combination of a caring staff working with the support of parents in the faith and academic formation of their children has proven to be a formula for success. Through the collaborative efforts of staff, parents and all stakeholders, HRCS joins Catholic schools across our nation as we continue to assist our children to live a life of faith, excellence and service. BC 50 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

OFFERING TRADITIONS OF CHRIST-CENTERED, CHALLENGING ACADEMICS SINCE 1963

COME GROW WITH US Open House for New Families is on Monday, March 8 from 9am – 1pm Registration for New Familes will be Monday, March 8 – Friday, March 12 www.holyrosary.org 985-693-3342 12925 E Main St • Larose, LA 70373 HRCS adheres to the non-discriminatory policy set by the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

Catholic Schools Week

St. Bernadette Catholic School

Where students can make a difference in changing the world From Jan. 31 to Feb. 6, 2021, St. Bernadette Catholic School in Houma will be celebrating Catholic Schools Week. We will be joining Catholic schools across the nation in celebration with Mass, Open House, and student activities as we focus on the rich traditions and incredible values of Catholic education. The theme this year is “Faith. Excellence.

Service.” We aspire to achieve success in all three areas as stated in our mission statement, “St. Bernadette Catholic School is a Christ-centered faith community that fosters spiritual growth and academic excellence. We instill in our students a lifelong commitment to Christian values, discipleship, learning and community service.

Faith. It is our goal as a Catholic school to provide a faithbased education, in which students build and deepen their relationship with Christ. More importantly than providing the education of faith, we provide students with the opportunity to experience living the faith. Faith strengthens us during trials and fuels what we do forth going. Here at St. Bernadette Catholic School we start every day in prayer and end every day in prayer. Our daily intentions among our faculty prayer help build a stronger faith community as we experience compassion for all.

Excellence. It is important to strive for excellence, not perfection. When we strive for excellence, we learn from our mistakes. With excellence as our goal, more opportunities will open for growth. Although academic excellence is an important aspect of who we are as a school, we also want our students to strive for excellence in life through their morals and values. We are proud to say that in 2019 one-third of our seventh graders qualified to participate in Duke TIP by scoring at or above the 95th percentile on the ACT Aspire.

Service. There are many benefits of serving others such as connecting to others and raising social awareness. Many service opportunities are available to all students as we participate in several school-wide projects. Our upper grade students are required to complete community service hours each nine weeks. Community service provides students with the opportunity to make a difference in society. It not only allows the students to help those in need, it allows them to support the very community that often supports them with school activities. We want them to learn that they can make a difference in changing the world. BC

FOSTERING SPIRITUAL GROWTH & ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE! Open House for New Families Feb. 2, 2021 & Feb. 3, 2021 5:30 - 7:45 P.M.

Registration for New Families Monday, Feb. 22, 2021 - Friday, February 26, 2021

St. Bernadette CatholiC SChool

985-872-3854 309 Funderburk Avenue • Houma, LA 70364 Visit our website to schedule an open house tour! www.saintbernadettepandas.org St. Bernadette School does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex or religion.

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 51

Catholic Schools Week

St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School

Students are models of faith, excellence and service As St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School in Houma celebrates its 150th year, it continues the long tradition of providing a faith-filled learning community dedicated to the education, development and spiritual formation of all students. By placing an emphasis on Catholic faith and respecting the uniqueness of each child, St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School provides a Catholic education with a strong academic curriculum and a variety of co-curricular activities that allow our students to be examples of faith, excellence and service.

The opportunities to learn and live out our Catholic faith at St. Francis are endless. From daily prayers and religion classes to weekly class Masses and everyday interactions, students not only learn about God but are able to live out his word. Additionally, throughout the day, students are immersed in engaging, hands-on collaborative learning activities that foster both academic excellence and spiritual growth. Teachers stay on top of the latest educational trends in order to provide a variety of effective teaching methods to ensure student success. Last year, 43 percent of our seventh grade students qualified for the Duke Tip program, which provides enrichment activities to students who score at or above the 95th percentile on national standardized tests.

Furthermore, in striving to live as Jesus would, St. Francis students give of themselves through service. This year our school family not only collected money to assist St. Margaret School in Lake Charles after Hurricane Laura, but they also donated over 10,000 canned goods and other non-perishable items to the people in Grand Isle and Golden Meadow that were affected by Hurricane Zeta. In addition, the 4-H club sponsored “Socktober” to raise funds for the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, and the school collected coats and blankets for the Kiwanis club.

St. Francis students are successful learners of both academics and faith. Through every opportunity that students are given at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School to be models of faith, excellence and service, they are able to continue to live their lives as missionary disciples. BC 52 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

A Tradition of Excellence     

Creating Missionary Disciples Sustaining High Academic Standards Engaging Classrooms Certified Teachers in all Classes Pre-K 3, Pre-K 4, Kindergarten, 1st-7th

Scheduled tours last approximately 20 minutes.

Febr uar y 2, 2021 Febr uar y 3, 2021 5:30-7:45 Please visit our website to schedule a tour.

300 Verret Street Houma, Louisiana 70360

Call us at 985-868-6646

Visit us on the web: www.stfrancishouma.org

St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School is open to all students and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national , or ethnic origin.

Catholic Schools Week

St. Genevieve Catholic School

Celebrating 60 years of Catholic education St. Genevieve Catholic School in Thibodaux strives to create an atmosphere that promotes a community of faith, excellence and service. Our primary mission is the teaching of the Catholic faith. We offer a quality Catholic education for families in our area. We seek to know Christ in our daily school experiences and honor him in each individual. Our students are nurtured in all developmental areas – spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally. Christ is the center of our school as evidenced by the deep spirituality that is developed here. Our students know that they are loved and share that love as they greet visitors in a warm and caring way.

At St. Genevieve Catholic School, we strive for excellence.

As a learning community, we set high standards for our students and ourselves. We know that we are held to a higher degree of responsibility and accountability, and accept the challenge. Our teachers are given many opportunities for professional growth through workshops and seminar attendance which will enhance instruction.

Important to our mission is to instill in our students a sense of service to others. They first learn to take care of one another. Our seventh graders are “big buddies” to our kindergarten students. Students “pair off” at other grade levels, giving older students an opportunity to mentor and model good behavior for younger students. Through our student job program, students are given responsibility for the operation of their school. We know that when students are included in the daily operation of their school, they have a sense of pride and ownership. They also learn to take care of our community by supporting several nonprofit organizations such as Hope for Animals, the Missionary Childhood Association, and Our Lady’s School in Sulphur, LA, that suffered hurricane damage.

This is a special year for our school as we celebrate our “60th Anniversary.” It is important for us to remember all of those who came before us that laid down this Christ-centered legacy and made St. Genevieve Catholic School what it is today. We are forever grateful for their dedication to Catholic education. It is up to us to carry on that legacy and let the light of Christ shine on everyone we meet on a daily basis. BC 54 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

St. Genevieve Catholic School “Lord, it is good that we are here.”

2021-2022 Registration February 22, 2021 - February 26, 2021 “My interest is in the future because I am going to spend the rest of my life there.” - Charles F. Kettering Ponder a moment this quote from an elementary student’s point of view. How seriously we must take our role in their future! We are here to touch that future, dramatically. We hope that you see our school as an investment in the future.

807 Barbier Avenue • Thibodaux, Louisiana 70301 (985) 447-9291 stgenevieveschool.us St. Genevieve Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin and is open to students who share our values and traditions.

Catholic Schools Week

St. Mary’s Nativity School

Rising to the challenge, doing its part locally and statewide Faith. In a year when our faith could be sorely tried by all the restrictions associated with keeping our students safe, St. Mary’s Nativity School in Raceland has risen to the challenge. Whatever could be done to guard the health of our students and staff has been done, including masks and social distancing. Father Clyde Mahler, pastor, holds two school Masses a week to keep up our weekly services. Our faith instruction continues unwaveringly.

Virtue-Based Restorative Discipline (VBRD), the program we employ that emphasizes the use of virtues for replacing misbehavior with cooperation, allows us to cope with unwanted behavior and teach students self-control. Class meetings have taken the place of larger “family” meetings so that prayer circles and monthly programs on the virtues continue. Our prayers every morning are dedicated to those who need our help. This crisis means that together we have a greater reliance on our faith than ever.

Excellence. St. Mary’s educational progress continues.

Though our STEM, P.E., and art classes cannot meet as before, teachers are incorporating these into the curriculum.

Chromebooks are employed in many classes, allowing for cooperative work without crowding. Students still participate in essay and art contests, prepare for exams for high school credits, and are readied for any testing in the future.

Students have been trained to continue at-home learning should it become necessary. Our educational program has risen to recent challenges; we teach not only self-discipline but resilience in the face of change.

Service. Some of the service projects we have participated in during past years have been made impossible this year, but students and parents continue to show their generosity. Our church pageant became a drive-by tableau. Financial aid was sent to Our Lady Immaculate Catholic School in Jennings to help students displaced by a hurricane. Fundraisers have replaced donating objects; one was held for first responders in Hackberry near Lake Charles after Hurricane Laura.

Our veterans program this year meant that over 100 letters went out to veterans across the country; others go to senior citizens. Small Christmas trees were decorated for the veterans. Gifts and toys for needy families helped make Christmas more joyful. Service to others more than ever means we need each other.

St. Mary’s Nativity School does her part. BC

St. Mary’s Nativity School 3492 Nies Street • Raceland, Louisiana 70394 (985)537-7544 • https:www.plusportals.com/StMarysNativity

2021-2022 Registration Current Students February 8-12, 2021 New Students February 22-26, 2021

Faith. Excellence. Service.

Pre-K 3 through 8th grade

St. Mary’s Nativity School is open to all students and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion or ethnic origin.

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 55

Catholic Schools Week

St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School

Forming faith-filled missionary disciples Our Mission: With Jesus as our role model, St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School in Thibodaux exists to educate the youth of the area spiritually, morally, academically and socially, in a safe, Catholic, Christ-centered environment.

Faith: Our faith, hope and love for one another in our school family, parish community, state and world has grown deeper this school year. Each day begins and ends in prayer. A decade of the rosary is recited as a school on Mondays. Videoed recordings of Worship Wednesdays include the Gospel of the day being read followed by a reflective meditative song. Friday Mass is celebrated in the library and is livestreamed into each classroom. Jesus’ body walks through the halls of SJCES on a weekly basis as holy Eucharist is distributed to students and staff. Students are reminded that we all make mistakes and in learning from

56 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

our mistakes we become stronger individuals.

Excellence: Faculty and staff members embrace learning methodology and technology advancements to ensure students are acclimated to the demands and rigor set for them in the larger world. New Promethean ActivPanel boards, 180 new Chromebooks, six new charging carts and document cameras aid in-person learning as well as possible virtual learning. Students are challenged academically and are exposed to real life hands-on learning experiences. A fulltime school counselor, curriculum specialist, and religion coordinator are on staff.

Service: Our school vision is to form missionary disciples of Christ while providing a rigorous academic program and promoting a virtuous life focused on service to others. Random acts of kindness and service by students is acknowledged through our Paws-i-tive Prints program where recipients are recognized for their virtuous acts. Some projects to promote service and giving from the heart include the Giving Tree project at the co-cathedral, monetary collections for hurricane relief, the missions, Hope for Animals, local food drives and partnering with Catholic Charities to make cards and color suncatchers for local nursing home residents. These are all living examples of our mission as well which states we strive to educate the whole child while promoting social interaction in a safe, Catholic, Christ-centered environment. BC

St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE available starting Feb. 1 on our school website and Facebook page

Catholic Education Rooted in Faith

Continuing the Tradition of Providing a Quality Catholic Education since 1855

A Values-Oriented Curriculum Fostering Individual Growth Spiritually, Morally, Academically & Socially • Nationally Accredited by Cognia • Committed to Academic Rigor and Technology Integration • Dedicated, Caring, Certified Faculty & Staff • Promethean Classrooms, Computer Lab & Library • A.C.T./Aspire Assessment Program • Full-Day Pre-K for Four-Year-Olds • Daily Prayer & Weekly School Liturgies • Student Clubs, Sports Teams, Music & Band • Attention to Special Academic Needs • Optional Before & After School Care

501 Cardinal Drive • Thibodaux, LA 70301 • (985) 446-1346 www.stjosephcesthibodaux.org Facebook: @stjosephces St. Joseph C.E.S. does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin and is open to students who share our values and traditions.

January 2021 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic • 57

Catholic Schools Week

St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic School

Building God’s kingdom one child at a time At St. Gregory Barbarigo Catholic School in Houma, we develop a community of faith, excellence and service.

Faith – Students learn and practice faith each and every day through prayer, words and actions. We pray together for each other, our families and community when we start and end our school day. The children are taught that their faith “can move mountains.” Students participate in the weekly school Mass and our pastor, Father Alex Lazarra, is active in the daily operations of the school. In addition to our religious education curriculum, students take part in special religious activities and observances throughout the school year. St. Gregory faculty and staff are dedicated, caring, spiritual and effective in the education and social growth of the children.

Excellence – We promote spiritual academic processes by which students are motivated to learn in ways that make

Building God’s Kingdom. One Child At A Time!

ST. GREGORY BARBARIGO CATHOLIC SCHOOL

substantial and positive influences on how they think, act and feel. We strive to elevate students to a level where they learn deeply and remarkably because of our teachings.

Every student has learning opportunities that promote

School Tours

individual success. We provide individualized instruction

February 2nd and 3rd 5:30-7:45 by appointment only.

Call for appointment

each day in addition to our whole class environment. All students set personal academic goals in various areas and

Current Student Registration

receive the support to attain those goals. Our students have opportunities to prepare them in religious, academic, social,

February 8-12, 2021

New Student Registraton

personal and service areas to become well-rounded, spiritual, successful individuals.

February 22-26, 2021

Service – Student-lead service projects have increased

Educating students age 3 through 7th grade

an awareness of the needs of others in the community and

Principal: Dr. Cindy Martin, NBCT

other areas around the world. We have a “baby shower” and donate items to a local family shelter. The students donate canned goods for the church food pantry for distribution at Thanksgiving. They bring gently used coats for children. The students also participate in many other charitable activities that range from making cards, painting inspirational rocks, and fundraising to make monetary donations. Our students also take part in prayer ministry for the sick in the community.

Our students are involved in giving of themselves just as Jesus taught us. BC 58 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • January 2021

Small Class Sizes Morning and Midday Prayer Time Family-Oriented Environment SmartBoard Technology iPads and Kindles Computer Lab & Library Weekly School Mass

Monday School Assembly Music Ministry STEM Program/Robotics Yearbook Club Art Classes Royal Ministers of Christ Parent Teacher Organization

Award Winning Junior BETA Club Award Winning 4-H Club Buddy Programs Before/After School Care Program Academic Enrichment Small Group Interventions

441 Sixth Street ~ Houma, LA 70364 ~ (985) 876-2038 www.stgregoryschool.org

Spinal Implant Procedures including • INTRATHECAL PUMP IMPLANT • SPINAL CORD STIMULATOR IMPLANT • VERTIFLEX -

(MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT FOR SPINAL STENOSIS)

DR. HAYDEL IS 1 OF ONLY 3 PHYSICIANS IN THE STATE OF LOUISIANA & IS 1 OF ONLY 20 PHYSICIANS IN THE ENTIRE COUNTRY THAT HAS EXCEEDED OVER 100 VERTIFLEX PROCEDURES

Interventional Pain Procedures including: • EPIDURAL STEROID AND OTHER SPINE INJECTIONS • PERCUTANEOUS DISC DECOMPRESSION • RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION • KYPHOPLASTY FOR COMPRESSION FRACTURES • DISCOGRAM

Wellness/Osteoporosis Clinic Lafayette Location:

Houma Location:

Thibodaux Location:

1101 S. College Road, Suite 202 Lafayette, LA 70503 Phone: (337) 233-2504

1022 Belanger St. Houma, LA 70360 Phone: (985) 223-3132

2100 Audubon Avenue Thibodaux, LA 70301 Phone: (985) 223-3132

www.painspecialty.net

Michael S. Haydel, M.D. FIPP, ABIPP Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice American Board of Interventional Pain Physicians American Board of Anesthesiology