Bayou Catholic Magazine July 2022 by Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Bayou

Catholic

The official magazine of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Rejoice!

two ordained to priesthood

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2 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

Contents

Features 26 Father Carlos Talavera celebrates 25 years By Janet Marcel

Disaster Recovery Group active in diocese By Janet Marcel

Recovery process moving forward despite challenges By Janet Marcel

Columns 8 Message from our Administrator By Very Rev. P.J. Madden

Pope Speaks

Questions of Faith

Reading Between the Lines

Overtime

Pope Francis I

By Father Wilmer Todd

By Father Glenn LeCompte

By Ed Daniels

In Every Issue 6 From the Editor 16 Scripture Readings 21 Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons, Religious and Seminarians

Heavenly Recipes

Announcements 31 Catholic school superintendent and associate named

35 36 Lawrence Chatagnier/bayou catholic

On Our Cover

Newly ordained priests, Fathers James Rome and Stephen Castille are pictured with Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre, of Louisville, KY; Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs and diocesan administrator Very Rev. P.J. Madden shortly after the ordination ceremony at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

38 39 40

Youth Formation Summit, July 22-24 Vandebilt inducts three new Hall of Fame members St. Anne Novena, July 17-26 American Indian Mass, July 8 St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School names new principal

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •3

We are committed to great beginnings.

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Bayou Catholic How to reach us: BY PHONE: (985) 850-3132

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

Lawrence Chatagnier

editor and general manager

April LeBouef

business manager

Janet Marcel

staff writer/administrative assistant

Tisha Rachal

graphic designer

Becky Thibodeaux accounting specialist

Like us on Facebook or Find us on the web www.bayoucatholic.org

Where to find your Bayou Catholic

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

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •5

From the Editor

Let’s put the phone down and talk Let’s put the phone down and talk. Fifty years ago this statement would have seemed a bit odd. Cell phones are a marvel of modern technology. In this day and age, we can talk to anyone no matter where they are, from almost any location no matter where we are. Our cell phones are mini computers. Our cell phones are more advanced than many of the computers 50 years ago. While technological advances in communications have their benefits, there are also drawbacks. How many times in the course of a day do you see people in a group setting who are paying more attention to their cell phones than they are with the group members. You see it in restaurants, and in family settings. We all do it while traveling on vacations, at home, and even at work. With the advent of apps available on phones containing games, music, texting availability, and much more, our phones are hard to part with. Some phones, (I know my phone does), even gives me a weekly report that computes how much screen time I used in the previous week. One could say that many people have lost the art of good conversation. Our phones make it easy to send a quick text message to communicate with one another. Our text messages many times also include an emoji to express our mental or physical state at the time, these emojis show expressions or emotions we are trying to convey.

Recently at work one of our computer techs was installing software on a computer in the Bayou Catholic department. It was a lengthy process. I was sitting in a chair beside the desk where the tech was working. It would have seemed normal to take out our cell phones and do a quick check on what’s happening in the world of social media during this process. Instead with our cell phones in view but not touched, we had a conversation. We had a good conversation. It began mostly about work, then remembering that this person was out the previous week, I asked him about his time off from the office. He told me about the vacation he and his wife had just taken. His face lit up while talking about his vacation. His facial expressions and body language conveyed emotions and feelings that no emoji could. During our conversation we talked about different areas of the country that we had both traveled. We talked about the vastness and beauty of the United States and how in our travels we would meet people we didn’t know but began a conversation with and found out that in many instances we had a lot in common. We had the same thought that yes, technology is great; it’s a necessity, but it does have its drawbacks. The personal human encounter is missing in many circumstances. He mentioned to me that on his recent vacation to the Ozarks he and his wife had to travel down many country roads where there was no interstate system. We talked about how years ago when we were both younger, our families would travel from state to state sometimes and would have to map out a route on a physical map before

6 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

traveling on a vacation. In those days it was common to frequent many mom and pop stores, and restaurants while traveling. It was a way to meet people, share stories and make memories that would last a lifetime. It’s not hard to strike up a conversation with someone even during this time of such division in our country. In many instances you will find that there is much common ground that we share with each other. There are five characteristics of a common ground conversation and ways to approach a good conversation: • Be fully present in the conversation. • Realize and vocalize the things you agree on. • Seek understanding more than being right. • Honor the other person. • Commit to communicate with kindness. When we embrace these ideas and have conversations with people who share different opinions, we find that we can grow into better versions of ourselves. Remember, after reading Bayou Catholic, pass it on to a friend or relative who might not be attending Mass. It’s one of the great ways to do your part in spreading the Good News.

Lawrence

Lawrence Chatagnier Editor & General Manager

Bayou Catholic

The official magazine of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

A MAGAZINE THAT SUPPORTS YOUR FAITH

Outreach Line In response to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux is offering an Outreach Line (formerly known as the Child Protection Contact Line). The Outreach Line is an effort to continue the diocesan commitment to support healing for people who have been hurt or sexually abused recently or in the past by clergy, religious or other employees of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Outreach Line operates from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. A trained mental health professional responds to the line. Individuals are offered additional assistance if requested.

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

Línea de Comunicación Diocesana

Con el fin de cumplir con las Políticas de Protección de Niños y Jóvenes de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Los Estados Unidos, la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux ofrece una Línea de Comunicación (antes Línea de Contacto para la Protección de los Niños). La Línea de Comunicación es parte del esfuerzo diocesano de comprometerse con el mejoramiento de aquéllos que han sido lastimados o abusados sexualmente recientemente o en el pasado por miembros del clero, religiosos u otros empleados de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux. El horario de la Línea de Comunicación de la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux es de 8:30 a.m. a 4:30 p.m., de lunes a viernes. El encargado de esta línea es un profesional capacitado en salud mental. Se ofrece asistencia adicional al ser solicitada.

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

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän

www.bayoucatholic.org facebook.com/bayoucatholic www.htdiocese.org

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

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

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •7

Comment

The Real Presence Message from our Administrator Very Rev. P. J. Madden

“Oh sacred banquet, in which Christ is received; the memory of his passion is celebrated, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.” Dear reader, Christ’s peace be with you, as you read this challenging but beautiful article! The prayer quoted above is the prayer of St. Thomas Aquinas after holy Communion, when, having received the body and blood of our glorified Savior, all his great theological writings and ideas fall away, and he, one of the church’s greatest thinkers, adores Jesus whom he has just received. Yes, for that is the truth of this great mystery; when we celebrate Mass and go to Communion we are fully united to Jesus as he enters us and we become alive in him. There is nothing else to be said! Our Catholic faith teaches that Jesus, after praying at the Last Supper, “Do this in memory of me,” as he fed the Apostles his very body and blood, invites us to share this mysterious but real meal at every Mass. Sadly, in recent times, we have received evidence, and a responsible opinion poll further indicates this, too, that we have lost the conviction of this glorious truth. In that case, with weakened faith, our call to discipleship (following the footsteps and learning at the feet of the Master) is greatly compromised. This has serious implications, not only for the church and ourselves, but for the world. Why, you may ask? Because we are each

called, by Christ himself, and gifted by the Holy Spirit, to be Christ to others, and take his message to the whole world. If you need immediate reassurance of the truth of this great mystery, read John’s Gospel! Jesus makes clear, many times, that if you “eat my flesh you will have life in you.” Again, Jesus reminds us “Who eats my flesh lives forever.” It is crystal clear that it is Christ himself we eat!

In order to reawaken our faith in this central truth of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist, and with it our devotion to holy Mass at least once a week, our bishops have invited us all, beginning on Corpus Christi (celebrated this year on Sunday, June 19) to a renewal, through prayer and teachings, and to a fuller understanding of what a privileged people we are to have Christ as our guest, even as he invites us to be his guest, at every eucharistic celebration! Further articles will appear in this magazine, together with invitations to group discussions, and classes on eucharistic themes, over the coming months, to guide and renew our belief

8 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

in this central mystery of our faith. We sing at Mass “We are one body, one spirit in Christ” and that is what we are aiming to be, so that, through our lived faith, Christ is made present to our families, community and world. By our Christian lifestyle, we are the instruments through which Christ invites others to come to know and share his life. In this way, too, we are witnesses to hope, which is the theme of our diocesan Strategic Plan, by which our call to discipleship is realized! Our participation in the Eucharist is not a passive but dynamic experience, which powered by the Holy Spirit, sends us forth to proclaim: “Jesus Christ is Lord, the same, yesterday, today and forever.” To start your personal renewal, may I invite you to begin each day with an act of spiritual communion, a very simple prayer like: “Dear Jesus, please fill my heart with your presence that I may be Christ to others this day.” Also, make the prayer at the start of this article your personal prayer after Communion to remind you that Jesus is truly with you and you with him. Remember, through our baptism, we are called to bear witness to his presence in the world through our lived faith. How can this be if we do not accept the presence of our teacher, guiding, enlightening and teaching us, through prayer and regular celebration of holy Mass? May this period of graced renewal fill you with a new appreciation of our privileged position to be instruments of Christ’s living and loving presence in our world, which never needed him more! “Lord Jesus, present to us in the Eucharist, we place our trust in you; make us a sign of your presence. Amen.” God bless. BC

Comentario

La presencia real “Oh, banquete sagrado, en el que se recibe a Cristo; la memoria de su pasión es celebrada, se llena la mente de gracia y se nos da una prenda de la gloria futura”. Querido lector, la paz de Cristo esté contigo, mientras lees este desafiante pero hermoso artículo. La oración arriba citada, es la oración de Santo Tomás de Aquino después de la santa comunión, cuando, habiendo recibido el cuerpo y la sangre de nuestro Salvador glorificado, todos sus grandes escritos e ideas teológicas caen, y él, uno de los más grandes pensadores de la iglesia, adora a Jesús a quien acaba de recibir. Sí, porque ésa es la verdad de este gran misterio: cuando celebramos la Misa y comulgamos, nos unimos plenamente a Jesús, que entra en nosotros y nos hace vivir en Él. ¡No hay nada más que decir! Nuestra fe católica enseña que Jesús, después de orar en la Última Cena: “Hagan esto en memoria mía”, mientras daba a comer a los Apóstoles su mismo cuerpo y sangre, nos invita a compartir este misterioso pero real alimento en cada Misa. Lamentablemente, en los últimos tiempos, hemos recibido evidencia, y los clamores de la opinión responsable lo indican también, de que hemos perdido la convicción de esta gloriosa verdad. Por lo que, con una fe debilitada, nuestra llamada al discipulado (seguir las huellas y aprender a los pies del Maestro) se ve muy arriesgada. Esto trae serias consecuencias, no sólo para la iglesia y para nosotros mismos, sino para todo el mundo. ¿Por qué?, ustedes pueden preguntar, Porque cada uno de nosotros está llamado, por Cristo mismo, y por el don del Espíritu Santo, a ser Cristo para los demás, y a llevar su mensaje a todo el mundo. Si necesitaran una afirmación inmediata de la verdad de este gran misterio, ¡lean el Evangelio de Juan! Jesús deja claro, muchas veces, que si ustedes “comen mi carne tendré vida en ustedes”. De nuevo, Jesús nos recuerda que “quien come mi carne vive para siempre”. ¡Está clarísimo que es el propio Cristo a quien comemos!

En orden a concientizar nuestra fe en esta verdad central de la presencia de Cristo en la Eucaristía, y con ella nuestra devoción a la santa misa al menos una vez a la semana, nuestros obispos nos han invitado, a partir del Corpus Christi (que se celebra este año el domingo 19 de junio) a una renovación, a través de la oración y las enseñanzas, y a una comprensión más plena de cuán privilegiados somos al tener a Cristo como invitado, incluso cuando él nos invita a ser sus invitado, en cada celebración eucarística. Más adelante, en esta revista aparecerán otros artículos, junto con invitaciones a debates de grupo y clases sobre temas eucarísticos durante los próximos meses, para guiar y renovar nuestra creencia en este misterio central de nuestra fe. Cantamos en la misa “Somos un solo cuerpo, un solo espíritu en Cristo” y eso es lo que pretendemos ser, para que, a través de nuestra fe vivida, Cristo se haga presente en nuestras familias, comunidad y mundo. Con nuestro estilo de vida cristiano, somos los instrumentos a través de los cuales Cristo invita a los demás a conocer y compartir su vida. De este modo, también somos testigos de esperanza, el cual es el tema de nuestro Plan Estratégico diocesano, por el que se realiza nuestro llamado al discipulado. Nuestra participación en la Eucaristía

no es una experiencia pasiva, sino dinámica, que, impulsada por el Espíritu Santo, nos envía a proclamar: “Jesucristo es el Señor, el mismo, ayer, hoy y siempre”. Para comenzar su renovación personal, les invito a que empiecen cada día con un acto de comunión espiritual, una oración muy sencilla como “Querido Jesús, por favor, llena mi corazón con tu presencia para que pueda ser Cristo para los demás en este día”. Además, haz que la oración citada al comienzo de este artículo sea tu oración personal después de la Comunión para recordarte que Jesús está realmente contigo y tú con él. Recuerda que, por nuestro bautismo, estamos llamados a dar testimonio de su presencia en el mundo a través de nuestra fe vivida. ¿Cómo puede ser esto si no aceptamos la presencia de nuestro maestro, que nos guía, ilumina y enseña, a través de la oración y la celebración regular de la santa misa? Que este período de renovación y de gracia los llene de una nueva apreciación de nuestro lugar tan privilegiado de ser instrumentos de la presencia viva y amorosa de Cristo en nuestro mundo, ¡hoy más que nunca lo necesitamos! “Señor Jesús, presente en la Eucaristía, ponemos nuestra confianza en ti; haznos signo de tu presencia. Amén”. Que Dios nos bendiga. BC

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •9

Binh luan bang loi

Hiện Diện Thật “Ôi bữa tiệc thánh, con được lãnh nhận Chúa Kytô; con tưởng nhớ cuộc tử nạn Ngài, tâm hồn con tràn ngập ơn thánh, và kiếp sau con được vĩnh phúc.” Anh chị em thân mến, bình an của Chúa Kytô ở cùng anh chị em, trong lúc anh chị em đọc bài viết với thách thức nhưng tuyệt vời này! Một lời hoan hỷ được trích ở trên nói lên sau khi rước Lễ của Thánh Tôma Aquina, khi được lãnh nhận Mình và Máu Thánh Chúa Cứu Thế Vinh Quang, tất cả tư tưởng thần học vĩ đại của ngài đều không còn ý nghĩa, mà ngài là một trong những vị thần học gia nổi tiếng của Giáo Hội, xấp mình thờ lạy Chúa mà ngài vừa lãnh nhận. Phải, sự thật của Bí Tích Nhiệm Mầu là thế; khi tham dự Thánh Lễ và rước Lễ chúng ta được hoàn toàn hiệp thông với Chúa Giêsu và chúng ta được sống trong Ngài. Không cần lời nào thêm. Đức tin Công Giáo dạy rằng sau bữa ăn tối Ngài nói, “Hãy làm việc này mà nhớ đến Thầy,” Ngài nuôi dưỡng các Tông Đồ bằng thịt và máu Ngài, cùng mời gọi chúng ta chia sẻ mầu nhiệm này trong mỗi Thánh Lễ. Buồn thay, thời cận đại, bằng chứng có được, và qua tham khảo cũng đáng tin cậy cho biết, rằng chúng ta đã mất đi niềm tin mạnh vào Thánh Thể. Trong tình huống này, với đức tin yếu kém, lời kêu gọi làm tông đồ (theo bước chân và đặt mình dưới chân Chúa) bị lung lay mạnh. Điều đó ám chỉ rất nghiêm trọng, không chỉ cho Giáo Hội, chính mình, mà cho cả thế giới. Tại sao, anh chị em tự hỏi? Bởi vì từng người được chính Chúa Kytô kêu gọi, và được tràn đầy ơn Thánh Thần, là Kytô cho người khác, và đem Tin Mừng cho thế giới. Nếu anh chị em cần củng cố niềm tin vào sự thật của mầu nhiệm cao cả này, đọc Phúc Âm Thánh Gioan. Chúa Giêsu vạch rõ rất nhiều lần rằng nếu các con “ăn thịt Ta thì Ta sẽ sống trong các con.” Một lần nữa Chúa Giêsu nhắc nhở chúng ta “Ai ăn thịt Ta sẽ sống muôn đời.” Rất rõ ràng rằng Chúa Giêsu cho ta ăn thịt Ngài. Để làm sống lại đức tin nhắm vào

sự thật về Chúa Kytô hiện diện trong Bí Tích Thánh Thể, và với sự tham dự Thánh Lễ ít nhất một lần trong tuần, các đức giám mục mời gọi chúng ta khởi đầu bằng Lễ Mình và Máu Thánh Chúa (năm nay vào Chúa Nhật ngày19 tháng 6) hâm nóng lại qua cầu nguyện và giáo lý, và để biết đầy đủ hơn cái gì gọi là những người như chúng ta được chính Chúa Giêsu làm người khách, như Ngài mời gọi chúng ta làm khách của Ngài trong mỗi Thánh Lễ. Cộng thêm các bài viết khác cùng đề tài trong cùng tờ báo, mời gọi tham gia nhóm trao dồi và học hỏi về chủ đề Thánh Thể trong vài tháng tới, hướng dẫn và hâm nóng niềm tin là nền tảng chính đức tin Công Giáo của chúng ta. Chúng ta hát trong Thánh Lễ “Chúng ta là một thân xác, một tâm hồn trong Chúa Kytô” và phải thế mà chính là đích chúng ta muốn tiến tới, để rồi, qua niềm tin sống động, Chúa Kytô hiện diện trong mọi gia đình, cộng đồng và trên thế giới. Do bởi sống đạo Kytô chúng ta là công cụ mà qua Chúa Kytô mời gọi người khác nhận biết và chia sẻ đời sống với Ngài. Và cũng trong hướng đi này chúng ta là chứng nhân Hy Vọng, mà đó cũng là chủ đề đường hướng mới của Giáo Phận, bởi thế lời mời làm tông đồ được thể hiện. Tham dự vào Thánh Lễ không phải là thụ động nhưng là kinh nghiệm sống động, vì qua sức mạnh của Chúa Thánh Thần thúc đẩy chúng ta tung hô:

10 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

“Chúa Kytô là Chúa, Ngài hiện hữu hôm qua, hôm nay và mãi mãi.” Để bắt đầu đổi mới bản thân, cho tôi mãn phép mời gọi anh chị em mỗi ngày một lần rước Mình Thánh thiêng liêng, cầu nguyện đơn giản như: “Lạy Chúa Giêsu, xin lấp đầy tâm hồn con bằng sự hiện diện của Ngài, để con là Kytô cho người khác ngày hôm nay.” Cũng thế dùng câu kinh khởi đầu bài viết này là lời cầu nguyện cho bản thân sau khi rước Lễ để nhắc nhở rằng Chúa Giêsu thật sự sống trong ta và ta trong Người. Nên nhớ, qua Bí Tích Thanh Tẩy, chúng ta được mời gọi làm chứng nhân cho sự hiện diện của Ngài trên thế giới qua chính đức tin sống động của mình. Làm sao làm được nếu chúng ta không tin vào sự hiện diện của Thầy mình, sự hướng dẫn, soi sáng và dạy chúng ta qua lời kinh và siêng năng tham dự Thánh Lễ? Xin ân sủng canh tân trong thời gian tới này đổ tràn đầy anh chị em với sự viên mãn mới mẻ mà anh chị em hãnh diện là chứng nhân sống động và yêu thương của Chúa Kytô cho thế giới, mà ngoài Ngài họ không cần gì thêm. Lạy Chúa Giêsu, xin ở với chúng con trong Thánh Thể, chúng con đặt niềm tin vào Ngài; hãy làm cho chúng con là dấu chỉ hiện diện của Ngài.” Amen. Phép lành của Chúa.BC

Seminarian eDucation burSeS Seminarian Spotlight Chad Cheramie Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Golden Meadow n When did you hear your call to the priesthood? Many times in my life from my first Mass returning to practicing my faith in 2017, and in January of 2020 during a Mass celebrated by Father Patrick Riviere at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Thibodaux. n Who is your favorite saint and why? I think my favorite would be Saint (Mother) Teresa. Mainly because she is an inspiration for me to persevere through desolation when Christ allows me to experience it for my growth. So I turn to her who was in desolation for most of her ministry serving the poor, yet she never strayed away or doubted that God was right there with her guiding her every step. n What is your biggest pet peeve? When people fold the corner of pages in a book n Do you have a secret talent? Singing and playing guitar

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

all completeD Seminarian eDucation burSeS can be vieweD online at www.htDioceSe.org/vocationS For more information contact the Catholic Foundation at 985-850-3116 or aponson@htdiocese.org July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •11

Comment

Pope Francis: No Christian is exempt from aiding the poor The Pope Speaks

By COURTNEY MARES Vatican City (CNA) Pope Francis says that no Christian is exempt from aiding the poor. In his message for the 2022 World Day of the Poor, published June 14, the pope said the worst thing that can happen to a Christian community is to be “dazzled by the idol of wealth, which ends up chaining us to an ephemeral and bankrupt vision of life.” “Where the poor are concerned, it is not talk that matters; what matters is rolling up our sleeves and putting our faith into practice through a direct involvement, one that cannot be delegated,” Pope Francis said. “No one must say that they cannot be close to the poor because their own lifestyle demands more attention to other areas. This is an excuse commonly heard in academic, business or professional, and even ecclesial circles. None of us can think we are exempt from concern for the poor and for social justice,” he added. The pope underlined that it is not a question of approaching the poor with “a welfare mentality,” but of ensuring that no one lacks what is necessary. He warned Catholics against laxity and inconsistent behavior with regard to the poor. He said: “At times ... a kind of laxity can creep in and lead to inconsistent behavior, including indifference about the poor. It also happens that some Christians, out of excessive attachment to money, remain mired in a poor use of their goods and wealth. These

L’Osservatore Romano

situations reveal a weak faith and feeble, myopic hope.” Pope Francis established the World Day of the Poor in 2016 at the end of the church’s Jubilee Year of Mercy. The day is celebrated each year on the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, a week before the feast of Christ the King. The 6th World Day of the Poor will be celebrated on Nov. 13 with the theme “for your sakes Christ became poor,” inspired by 2 Corinthians 8:9. In the message, signed on the June 13 feast day of St. Anthony of Padua, the pope made a distinction between poverty that humiliates, in which people live in squalor, and Christian poverty that sets people free and brings peace. “Jesus’ words are clear: If we want life to triumph over death, and dignity to be redeemed from injustice, we need to follow Christ’s path of poverty, sharing our lives out of love, breaking the bread of our daily existence with our brothers and sisters, beginning with the least of them, those who lack the very essentials of life,” he said. “This is the way to create equality, to free the poor from their misery and the rich from their vanity, and both from despair.” At a press conference on June 14, Archbishop Rino Fisichella highlighted

12 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

some Vatican initiatives to help aid the poor in coordination with the World Day of the Poor. He said that 500 families received assistance with rent, insurance, gas, electricity and water bills thanks in part to the Italian financial services company UnipolSai, and that tons of basic food supplies were distributed thanks to the generous collaboration of local supermarkets in the Diocese of Rome. In his message for the World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis also raised the question of what more can be done to help the millions of people living in war-torn Ukraine and other conflict zones. “What great poverty is produced by the senselessness of war,” he said. “Millions of women, children and elderly people are being forced to brave the danger of bombs just to find safety by seeking refuge as displaced persons in neighboring countries. How many others remain in the war zones, living each day with fear and the lack of food, water, medical care, and above all, human affections?” “How can we respond adequately to this situation, and to bring relief and peace to all these people in the grip of uncertainty and instability?” he asked. BC

Comment

Questions of Faith Father Wilmer Todd

Missing Mass while on vacation During the summer months, our family goes on vacations. I always try to find a place where I know there will be a Saturday evening or Sunday Mass. My intentions are good, but I am not always successful. We go to Mass when we can on the trip, or right away when we arrive home. Is it okay to go to Mass during the week to make up for an unintentional miss on a Sunday? The Catholic Catechism states, “You shall attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation and rest from servile labor.” The obligation is binding every Sunday. It is a day to grow in our faith, and the church requires Catholics to attend Mass to the extent they are able. While this obligation is extremely important, it is not absolute. In some situations, the legal obligation to attend Mass ceases. I would like to give two situations. The first pertains to the capacity of a person to participate safely and with due regard to other serious obligations, especially the demands of Christian love. If someone is seriously sick with a contagious disease, unable to get into a church without falling, caring for a sick child, or helping someone through a serious personal crisis, the obligation to attend Mass disappears. The second set deals with the church’s own inability to provide the means for fulfilling the obligation. If the church cannot organize the celebration of Mass in a particular place, say, in a national park far removed from a

town with a Catholic church or during a hurricane, the obligation does not apply. This, by the way, is why many dioceses have moved some holy days, such as the Ascension, to the nearest Sunday. The church never obliges us to do the impossible. If people are traveling and cannot find a Catholic Church nearby or cannot make it for a good reason, the church excuses them from attending Mass. Weekday Masses do not fulfill the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays. However, going to weekday Masses is a great way to be fed spiritually although it does not fulfill the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays. From the earliest days of the church, Christians have understood that being a Christian is not a private matter. Jesus calls us to be Christians together. While we should engage in the private worship of God throughout the week, our primary form of worship is public and communal which is why Sunday Mass is so important. Vatican Council II has defined the Eucharist as: “The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life.” These are powerful words: “Source and summit of the Christian life.” We become what we eat. When we attend Mass, the Word of God is broken for us; Jesus gives us the bread of life and the cup of eternal salvation. We are given food for eternal life. The Catholic Church is the only religion that imposes an obligation to attend the Sunday Eucharist. Maybe this is because the Mass is complicated.

The priest is the leader, but the Eucharist is the prayer of the whole congregation. Everyone is a worshiper and not a spectator. To answer the question “Who are we?” we proclaim loudly, “We are eucharistic people.” Many people have cut off themselves from the eucharistic meal. They no longer listen to God’s Words being proclaimed. They no longer eat the bread of life or drink from the cup of eternal salvation. Where do they get their spiritual nourishment? Jesus said, “I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, but they died; this is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever, and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world” (John 6:48-51). When we receive Jesus in Communion, this is that “summit” Vatican II talked about; it is the meeting of Jesus and his people. As Catholic Christians we are ever becoming the Body of Christ. When the minister holds up the host and says “The Body of Christ,” we answer “Amen.” By responding to it, we say “yes” to God. We need to be active members of the Body of Christ. An App called Mass Times for Travel will give you the time and locations of Masses in places you may be planning to visit. BC

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •13

Reflections

The danger of greed Readings Between the Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

“(Jesus) spoke a parable to them: The land of a certain rich man bore fruit abundantly. So he deliberated within himself, ‘What shall I do? For I do not have a place where I will store my produce.’ Then he said, ‘I will do this; I will tear down my barns and I will build larger ones, and I will store all the grain and my goods there. And I will say to myself, ‘Self, you have many goods laid up for many years; rest, eat, drink, enjoy yourself.’ ‘But God said to him, ‘Fool! This very night your soul will be demanded back from you. The things which you have prepared, whose will they be?’ Thus it is for the one who stores up treasure for himself and does not grow rich (in relation to) God” (Luke 12:16-21, translation by Rev. Glenn LeCompte). Jesus speaks the foregoing parable in response to a request by a person that Jesus arbitrate an inheritance dispute in the petitioner’s family. Jesus distances himself from the person’s request because it deals with a preoccupation with temporal goods, a preoccupation which can be detrimental to possessing eternal life. The parable illustrates the spiritual danger involved for those consumed with hoarding temporal goods. The parable, which will be read at weekend Masses July 30-31 this year, is a self-contained story in which there are two characters, a rich man and God. The human is never named, but only identified by a character trait; he is rich. The Greek adjective plousios (“rich”) is used 11 times in Luke’s Gospel always with a negative

connotation. For example, in 6:24 a woe is directed against the wealthy in view of the coming Kingdom, which will provide consolation to the poor and needy, but not for the rich who have been consoled by their possessions. The danger that attachment to material things presents is exemplified in the episode of a rich man’s reluctance to sell his possessions, give alms and follow Jesus (18:18-23). The rich man’s land yields an abundant harvest and his current storehouses are inadequate to store the amount of grain yielded. “What shall I do?” the rich man asks himself. There are several things he could do. He could donate the excess to the needy. He could sell the grain at a profit, but donate the excess to the poor. Such actions would be faithful to Jesus’ later exhortation, “Sell your belongings and give alms. Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven that no thief can reach nor moth destroy” (12:33). Instead the rich man decides to store up for himself goods that will benefit him only in this life. And because they can perish or be stolen, they may not provide comfort for the length of time he imagines. In addition to storing up the abundant produce of his crop, he also desires to hoard “goods” to make himself comfortable. The focus of his life becomes the comfort that material possessions can offer when he envisions himself resting, eating, drinking and

14 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

making merry for the rest of his life. But herein is a catch in the parable! How long will his life last? The answer to that question is, not much longer. Enter the second character in the story, God. Parables always have an element of surprise, and the unexpected comes when God tells the rich man that his life will be demanded back that very night. The verb “to demand back” refers to the requirement of returning something which has been entrusted to a person, as can be seen in Jesus’ explanation (12:42-48) of the parable of the Faithful and Unfaithful Servants (12:35-40). The rich man does not realize that life is a gift from God, a gift to be returned. By deciding to use his overabundant material possession to comfort himself in life, he focuses on life as something he possesses and has a right to, as he does regarding all of his other material possessions. God begins the announcement of the rich man’s fate by calling him a “fool.” Being a fool is the opposite of being a wise person. Biblical wisdom is not just about being prudent or efficient, it involves doing what is morally right. In light of Jesus’ teaching elsewhere in Luke on the handling of material possessions, the rich man, by hoarding his goods, acts immorally. Moreover, his folly involves the fact that despite the rich man’s desire to make himself comfortable with an overabundance of material things that due to his sudden

Reflections

death, he will not enjoy them as he anticipated. Indeed, an observant Jew should know the admonition of Psalm 49:11, “ ... the fool will perish together with the senseless, and they leave their wealth to others.” Jesus’ application (in other words, “the moral of the story”) of the parable in Luke 12:21 points out that the fate of the rich man in the parable will be that of those who store up treasure for themselves but do not grow rich in what matters to God. Luke 12:34 casts light on the situation of such people. Jesus says that where one’s treasure is, there is one’s heart. The rich man’s treasure was in material possessions and self-comfort, not in God. Thus he is more desirous of an earthly life than a heavenly one. In the encounter between Jesus and the person asking him to arbitrate a family inheritance dispute, Jesus characterizes the questioner’s preoccupation with the inheritance

as “greed,” which he admonishes is to be avoided by those who would follow him (12:15). If the parable is meant to be an illustration of greed and why it should be avoided, then we see that greed involves everything implicit in the rich man’s decision and actions. He is desirous of perishable temporal goods, seeks to comfort himself without regard for the neediness of others, and is fixed on worldly materialism rather than on what is necessary for eternal life. Greed is spiritually detrimental to life in the Kingdom Jesus proclaimed. It is listed among the seven Capital Sins (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1866) yet I contend it is probably the most ignored of the seven, especially in the United States. Greed exists among us in varying degrees; it is dividing us as a society, institutionally supporting poverty and causing suffering and deprivation. In next month’s article, I will consider how the point of Jesus’ parable challenges our society today. BC

Reflection Questions v Jesus characterizes a person’s request that he arbitrate an inheritance dispute as greed. How would you explain this? v How do we handle abundance or unexpected windfalls in our lives? Do we consider how we can use the excess to help the needy? v How many material possessions do we really need to get along in life? At what point do possessions become detrimental to our faith and spiritual life?

Help us

Donate new school supplies to benefit Terrebonne and Lafourche Parish students! Donations accepted at all Synergy Bank locations. July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •15

July Scripture Readings and a listing of Feast days and saints

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Weekday Amos 8:4-6, 9-12 Matthew 9:9-13

3 Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Isaiah 66:10-14c Galatians 6:14-18 Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 10 Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Deuteronomy 30:10-14 Colossians 1:15-20 Luke 10:25-37

4 Weekday Hosea 2:16, 17b18, 21-22 Matthew 9:18-26

11 Memorial of Saint Benedict, abbot Isaiah 1:10-17 Matthew 10:34— 11:1

Sixteenth Sunday in Weekday Ordinary Time Micah 6:1-4, 6-8 Genesis 18:1-10a Matthew 12:38-42 Colossians 1:24-28 Luke 10:38-42

Weekday Weekday Weekday Weekday Hosea 8:4-7, 11-13 Hosea 10:1-3, 7-8, Hosea 11:1-4, 8c-9 Hosea 14:2-10 Matthew 9:32-38 12 Matthew 10:7-15 Matthew 10:16-23 Matthew 10:1-7

Weekday Isaiah 7:1-9 Matthew 11:20-24

Weekday Isaiah 10:5-7, 13b-16 Matthew 11:25-27

Memorial of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin Isaiah 26:7-9,12, 16-19 Matthew 11:28-30

Weekday Micah 7:14-15, 18-20 Matthew 12:46-50

Weekday Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10 Matthew 13:1-9

Weekday Jeremiah 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13 Matthew 13:10-17

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Genesis 18:20-32 Colossians 2:12-14 Luke 11:1-13

Feast of Saint James, apostle 2 Corinthians 4:715 Matthew 20:20-28

Memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary Jeremiah 14:17-22 Matthew 13:36-43

Weekday Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21 Matthew 13:44-46

Weekday Jeremiah 18:1-6 Matthew 13:47-53

31 Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Ecclesiastes 1:2; 2:21-23 Colossians 3:1-5, 9-11 Luke 12:13-21 16 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

15 Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, bishop and doctor of the church Isaiah 38:1-6, 2122, 7-8 Matthew 12:1-8 22

Weekday Amos 9:11-15 Matthew 9:14-17

9 Weekday Isaiah 6:1-8 Matthew 10:24-33

16 Weekday Micah 2:1-5 Matthew 12:14-21

Feast of Saint Mary Weekday Magdalene Jeremiah 7:1-11 Song of Songs Matthew 13:24-30 3:1-4a John 20:1-2, 11-18

29 Memorial of Saint Martha Jeremiah 26:1-9 John 11:19-27

30 Weekday Jeremiah 26:1116, 24 Matthew 14:1-12

July

YOU DO THE LIVING, we do the rest!

Holy Father’s prayer intentions

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For the elderly. We pray for the elderly, who represent the roots and memory of a people; may their experience and wisdom help young people to look towards the future with hope and responsibility.

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See www.apostleshipofprayer.org

205 Venture Blvd. Houma, La 70360 985-868-0430 Mon-Fri 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM www.fleetsupplywhse.com

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •17

Cover Feature

Cathedral is filled for ordinations Fathers Stephen Castille and James Rome were ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma recently. Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre of Louisville, KY, was the ordaining prelate. Concelebrants were Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs, priests of the diocese and visiting priests.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier 18 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

Cover Feature

What was on your heart the morning of your ordination? Wow, that is a tough question. There were so many thoughts going through my mind the morning of my ordination, but what was on my heart? As I reflect, before I left for the church, I spent time in the chapel and remember feeling so grateful to God for finally getting me to this ordination day after 35 years of discernment. I also felt an amazing feeling of peace knowing that I am truly doing the will of God. Finally, I felt an indescribable joy in my heart knowing that I would soon be able to celebrate Mass and bring God’s mercy to others in the sacrament of reconciliation. Father Stephen Castille

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •19

Cover Feature

What was on your heart the morning of your ordination? Honestly, I was considerably more calm, cool and collected than the morning of my diaconate ordination. In the ordained world of celibate vows, my marriage commitment had already taken place and I was very comfortable with that. I can tell you, however, that taking vows of obedience to an unknown bishop was a bit more thought-provoking than my diaconate vows to Archbishop Shelton Fabre. Overall, I was ready for my day of priesthood ordination because I was sure of God’s call. Not once in the past seven or so years had I ever doubted what I was supposed to be. Consequently, ordination morning was kind of unspectacular. I had slept at St. Bernadette rectory and ate a breakfast of champions (a cold piece of Father Andre’s leftover meat-lovers pizza). I was confident because I knew formation had “prepared” me as well as possible to be “unprepared.” Father James Rome 20 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

July Daily Prayer

for Priests, Deacons, Religious and Seminarians Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Rev. Gregory Fratt

Friar Nathaniel Maria Gadalia

Rev. Alex Gaudet

Rev. Rholando Grecia

Rev. Brice Higginbotham

Deacon Brent Bergeron

Rev. Rajasekar Karumelnathan

Rev. Noas Kerketta

Rev. Thomas Kuriakose

Rev. Baby Kuruvilla

Rev. Brett Lapeyrouse

Deacon Brent Bourgeois

Rev. Alex Lazarra

Rev. Peter Tai Le

Rev. Glenn LeCompte

Very Rev. Eric Leyble, J.V.

Rev. Joey Lirette

Seminarian Wayne Romero Jr.

Rev. Clyde Mahler

Rev. Fernando Anaya

Rev. John David Matherne

Rev. Andre Melancon

Rev. John Nambusseril

Very Rev. P.J. Madden

Rev. Robert Rogers

Rev. Jean-Marie Nsambu

Rev. Joseph Pilola

Deacon Joseph Bourgeois

Rev. Patrick Riviere

Deacon Malcolm Andry

31 Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs

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 Sponsored by: and sisters in You. For You love them, Lord Jesus, and we love of the Word and pray for them in Your Holy Name, today especially for 506 Cardinal Drive, Thibodaux, LA • marianservantsoftheword@gmail.com _______________________. Amen.

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •21

Heavenly Recipes

Story and Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Tyler’s Squash Casserole

Tyler Reynolds 22 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

Tyler Reynolds, employee benefits coordinator in the Office of Human Resources for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, shares his recipe for squash casserole in this month’s Heavenly Recipes. Tyler is from Monroe, LA, and lived in Shreveport until 1988 when he was six years old. “My father was the assistant manager of Piccadilly Cafeteria in Shreveport and took the manger job in Houma when it was offered to him. So I grew up around food and was around the kitchen a lot in Piccadilly. I worked there in high school and have deep roots in my childhood at that cafeteria.” Tyler’s wife Lisa is from Cut Off. The couple have three children.:Allie Grace, 11; and boys Liam Tyler, 6; and Owen Ellis, 5. The Reynolds family live in Summerfield in Houma. Tyler recalls meeting Lisa in 2005. “My mom and her sister were working for the same business company and they set us up on a blind date. It was funny because I remembered her face from school. She was in one of my classes at Nicholls.” Tyler says his mom did most of the cooking while he was growing up. He says they definitely ate a lot of “North Louisiana food.” “This recipe is from my stepmom Bessie. My wife is a picky eater. Bessie made it for us and we fell in love with it. My wife cooks it all the time now.” The Reynolds family are parishioners of St. Bernadette, where their children attend school. Tyler became interested in the insurance industry through his father. “My father was in the insurance industry. I was licensed in 2007. I worked for State Farm for a few years. In 2016, I made the decision to go into the insurance industry full time. I also converted to Catholicism in 2016, when my mom passed away suddenly. That made me discover my faith.”

Heavenly Recipes

Squash Casserole Ingredients: 6 medium squash 1 onion, chopped 1/2 bell pepper, chopped (optional) 1 clove garlic, minced 3/4 lb. smoked sausage or ham 1 egg 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 1 sleeve crackers (Ritz or regular) Season to taste Butter

Directions:

Slice and cover squash in salted water and boil until tender for about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Saute’ onion, garlic and bell pepper in butter until tender. Add sausage or ham and stir fry for about 5 minutes. Combine with squash and crumbled crackers, egg and cheese. Season and mix well. Pour into greased casserole dish. Bake in preheated oven on 350 degrees for about 20 to 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Tyler says that changes in the insurance industry helped him decide on applying for the employee benefits position at the diocese. “Things fell into place when I discovered that the position was open in the diocese. I absolutely love working for the diocese. I enjoy helping people with their insurance claims and helping them understand their situations with insurance.” Tyler believes that going through the RCIA program at St. Bernadette and becoming Catholic was one of the best decisions that he has made in his life. “As a human being you want people to believe the same things that you believe. Tyler reflects a lot on this quote from Pope Paul VI: “Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses.” BC

a July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •23

Church Life

Transitional diaconate ordination Davis Ahimbisibwe was ordained as a transitional deacon recently at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre of Louisville, KY, was the ordaining prelate. The cathedral was filled with priests, friends and well wishers.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

24 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

Church Life

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •25

Father Carlos Talavera celebrates his 25th anniversary of priesthood Grandparents were very influential in his decision to become a priest Story by Janet Marcel ~ Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier Father Carlos Talavera, pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Church parish in Bayou Black since July 2018, recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. The Iriga City, Philippines, native was ordained May 31, 1997, by Bishop Emeritus Michael Jarrell at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. Since being ordained, he has served as associate pastor at St. Genevieve, Christ the Redeemer and St. John the Evangelist Church parishes in Thibodaux, and St. Hilary of Poitiers Church parish in Mathews; and as pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church parish in the St. Charles Community, Holy Savior Church parish in Lockport, St. Louis Church parish in Bayou Blue, and Our Lady of the Isle Church parish in Grand Isle. Father Talavera says his grandparents were very influential in his decision to become a priest. “They prayed the rosary, went to Mass every day and taught me the basic principles of my faith.” His grandparents lived close to them and he and his brothers would go to their house after school to wait for their parents, who were always busy running various businesses, to pick them up. “My grandparents had a big chalkboard at their house. My grandmother would write the Apostle’s Creed and other prayers, and we would stand in front of the chalkboard and memorize them that way. We also used to tag along when they went to prayer meetings, rosary groups, charismatic gatherings, etc. But, I never really thought about becoming a priest at that time. I had heard that my father went to the seminary, but I never asked him about it, because he met my mother and that was it,” says the priest. If he hadn’t become a priest, Father Talavera says there were many different things he thought about doing when he was growing up. He thought about being a doctor, where he could help a lot of people take care of their health. He also thought of becoming a pilot where he could travel to and see many different places around the world. And, all of his uncles served in the military, so that was also something he considered.

While he was still in elementary school, he says his grandmother wanted him to be an altar server. She would take him to 4 a.m. Mass every morning and then they would go out for breakfast at a restaurant before school started. He says that’s where he first learned about serving at Mass. He remembers when he was in the sixth grade at an all-boys school, the principal, who was a priest, started calling all the boys one by one to his office one day. None of the boys would tell what it was about. He finally convinced one of his friends to tell him what the principal wanted. The boy told him that the principal was asking everyone what they wanted to be when they grew up. Then his friend told him that if you said you wanted to be a priest, they were going to take you on a field trip. A few days later, these boys were told they were going to a play in Manila, which was about a three-hour bus ride away. “We went to the play and then they took us to a seminary. It was the first time I had been to a seminary. We spent the night there and we learned all about what life was like in the seminary.”

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Father Talavera says his grandparents were very influential in his decision to become a priest. “They prayed the rosary, went to Mass every day and taught me the basic principles of my faith.”

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After he finished sixth grade, his family moved, and he and his two older brothers were accepted to high school seminary. He finished high school there and got a college education there, also. Seminary life was very structured, he recalls. “We learned how to be disciplined. We would wake up early every morning, go to prayer, go to breakfast, attend classes, go to supper, have a time for socialization, study, then bedtime at 9 p.m. We were also assigned to a cleaning station each day – where we had to do things like scrub the floors, clean the bathroom or go outside and tend to the gardens. The experience taught us how to live in a community setting.” After finishing college, if he would have continued on to study for the priesthood, he would have been ordained at the age of 24, which at the time he thought was too

young. So he left the seminary and stayed home for about a year trying to evaluate what God wanted him to do. He sold pharmaceutical drugs to hospitals and doctor’s offices for a while, but says that was not really for him. He had a priest friend who invited him to stay at his rectory for a while. While there, he started performing Communion services, and helping him at Masses. One day his friend asked him if he ever thought about going to the United States. He decided to write to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux along with a few other dioceses in the U.S. In less than two weeks, the diocesan vocations director responded to him and in less than a month, he was in the United States. He finished his priestly formation at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans, where he says there was a little less structure than in the Philippines, and more free time. Father Talavera says his parents were not able to come to his ordination, but his uncle who lived in California was there. One of the things that stands out in his mind about that day is after he made his promises to the bishop and all the priests came to the altar to embrace him, he remembers (the late) Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux, first bishop of the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, embracing him and telling him to “Always be happy.” He also recalls a group of parishioners from St. Genevieve Church parish in Thibodaux, who found out that he was being assigned there as associate pastor, coming up to him and telling him they attended his ordination because they knew he was coming to their parish and they wanted to see if they would be able to understand him … and they could. He says they all became good friends after that. Father Talavera says the past 25 years have gone by fast. He served as an associate pastor for six or seven years before being named pastor, which he thought was a good thing and he was grateful for that. In his free time, he enjoys cooking for others, and fishing and hunting when he’s invited. He also likes to cut the grass, weed eat, pressure wash – the parish has not had a maintenance man for a while so he does it to save the parish some money – and he says it’s relaxing for him. But mostly, he just likes to rest and take it easy on his days off. One of the things Father Talavera cherishes most and is most grateful for are the loving, generous, caring people here in the diocese. He was able to get to know and build relationships with so many families. And he says the people were always welcoming and hospitable to him everywhere he served. Father Talavera says his motto has always been: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). BC

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •27

Special

Disaster Recovery Group of CCH-T has assisted over 100 families in diocese Story by Janet Marcel ~ Photos courtesy of Lee Shaffer “The outpouring of support from volunteers in and out of the community for victims of Hurricane Ida in our diocese has been a beautiful aspect of our apostolate,” says Lee Shaffer, associate director of Parish Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux (CCH-T). “We have witnessed caring volunteers who donate their time and resources, and actually help people who are often hopeless and having a difficult time recovering from a disaster. The love and kindness that is given and received by both the volunteer and the person in need is a very rewarding interaction to be part of as a Christian. Young people listening and praying with elderly residents who are in need is something that I feel blessed to be a part of,” Shaffer says. The Disaster Recovery Group of CCH-T has been helping people in many different communities throughout the diocese and have assisted over 100 families thus far, explains Shaffer. They have typically focused their efforts on those in most need. “Our emphasis is often on the elderly, the single mothers, the disabled and those who just can’t help themselves as much as they wish they could. Initially, we helped with mucking and gutting to get rid of the wood and sheetrock that had mold and mildew. Now we are progressing to rebuilding these homes with sheetrock and insulation installation, replacing and repairing roofs, replacing ramps, and making appliance purchases.” Shaffer says they are not doing this alone, however. They have had the support from the many non-profits, including AmeriCorps, Rebuilding Together – New Orleans & Bayou, 28 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

St. Vincent De Paul, Knights of St. Peter Claver, Knights of Columbus, ToolBank, CORE, Christian Public Service, St. Bernard Project, and volunteers from around the country. Recently a group of volunteers from Catholic High School in Baton Rouge provided the diocese with a day of service before they had to be at a fundraising fishing rodeo for the school. They came in at 8 a.m. and worked until about 3 p.m. “Catholic Charities bought the sheetrock and lumber, and volunteers from Catholic High and Christian Public Services helped me and two other employees from CCH-T (David Lopez and Daniel Hebert) re-build a wall in the home of an 89-year-old resident in Golden Meadow. We then started to install sheetrock in five other rooms. In all, we completed three rooms in his home that day,” explains Shaffer. As of press time, the Disaster Recovery Group of CCH-T had several groups lined up to work on future projects, including a group of spring breakers from Baltimore, MD, and a group of 125 volunteers from around the country who are with the Catholic Conference and Service Camp organization, “Alive in You.” On Aug. 11, a team of AmeriCorp volunteers will be arriving to work with CCH-T for 10 months. Shaffer says they are always willing to take individual and group volunteers to help with this disaster recovery process. “Our tag line is that ‘We plan to leave no one behind,’ and this means we are going to continue to help for the long-term.” For more information about volunteering, contact Shaffer or Catholic Charities Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux at (985)876-0490. BC

Feature

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •29

Special

Unplanned pregnancies happen By AMANDA GARCIA Unplanned pregnancies happen. In some cases, unplanned pregnancies cause a ripple in the lives of expectant women who think and react out of fear – horrifying, thought-crippling fear. There’s no way to practice a rational response that aligns with one’s core values and thinking within those situations. Instead, one’s amygdala, which is responsible for personal emotion and behavior responses, takes over, and an expectant woman finds herself in a fight or flight situation and her choices reflect what will seemingly rid her of the fear (Healthline: Amygdala Hijack). Unplanned pregnancies are such a regular part of life in our society that abortion clinics flourish and pregnancy resource centers exist. It is easy to condemn and criticize a woman for even contemplating abortion. How can someone justify taking a life of an innocent unborn baby? But look at the country we live in today. Everyone walking into an abortion clinic today has grown up with legal abortion available to them. Abortion became the law of the land in 1973 through the Supreme Court case of Roe vs. Wade, 49 years ago. Women choosing abortion are often panicked and grasping for what has been deemed socially acceptable as a means to allay their fear. We have been living in a Pro-Roe culture for nearly 50 years. Soon, that could change! There are many reasons to be terrified by any pregnancy, much less an unplanned pregnancy. That crippling fear isn’t going away if Roe goes away. Instead, the option that these women have grown up knowing was a choice may no longer be available to them. And the desperate acts that women will turn to without the availability of an abortion clinic is real. The Pro-Roe culture may change, but abortion isn’t going anywhere. We need to offer hope to women who fear the end of a pro-abortion culture. More than good feelings and inspiring messages, these fearful women need to

find hope in the way we act. Our prayer is powerful, but it must inspire us to act! If you feel called to do something to show your support for life, here are a few suggestions: Pray. There is nothing more powerful than prayer. • Pray for the safety of all pregnancy help organizations as pro-abortion activists are targeting them. • Pray for the women today who find themselves in an unexpected pregnancy, that they find the care and support they deserve at a local pregnancy center (https://friendsofcrossroadsprc. org/support/pray/). Volunteer. There is always a need for a skill you may have. • Contact Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center or a local pregnancy organization in your area to ask them about their needs. • Participate in a local center’s event. Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center hosts various events each year such as the Celebrate Life Gala, Respect Life Event, and Baby Bottle Fundraisers. Join in and show your support! (https:// friendsofcrossroadsprc.org/support/ volunteers/) Give. Your financial support helps save lives! • Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center equips and empowers women

30 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

and men with life affirming choices. Our Life Skills Parenting Program offers answers to pregnancy and parenting related questions and we offer practical assistance throughout the entire pregnancy and beyond. • You can become a “Partner in Life” by making a one-time donation or becoming a monthly supporter. Every donation is life changing for the women we serve (https:// friendsofcrossroadsprc.org/donate/). Whether or not Roe vs. Wade is overturned, women across the U.S. will continue to seek out abortions. State laws are changing frequently and women facing unexpected pregnancies will be more confused than ever. It is critical to meet women in this moment with compassion, professional care, and the truth—especially as Big Abortion targets vulnerable women with the abortion pill. The need for pregnancy help will not go away because of a Supreme Court decision. Women will still need the compassionate care and support that pregnancy centers provide day in and day out. For up-todate information about the SCOTUS decision and more visit: https://www. heartbeatinternational.org/dobbs-info. (Amanda Garcia is the executive assistant for Crossroads Pregnancy Resource Center in Thibodaux.) BC

Announcement

Dr. Mark Williams named superintendent of Catholic schools Gerrie Byrne associate superintendent Both positions effective July 15, 2022 Story by Janet Marcel The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux has appointed Mark Williams, Ed.D., as the new superintendent of Catholic schools. Williams previously served as associate superintendent of secondary schools in the Archdiocese of New Orleans. “It is with great joy and thanksgiving to God that we announce Dr. Mark Williams as our new superintendent of Catholic schools,” says Very Rev. P.J. Madden, diocesan administrator. “With his deep faith and broad experience, he will bring a new dynamic of leadership that will inspire our teachers and students. And the timing couldn’t be any better, as we have a renewed commitment to enhancing the Catholic identity in all areas of our schools, including academic curriculum, athletics, and other extracurriculars. That tone will be set at our planned educators convocation on Aug. 3.” Uniquely formed in experience and faith, Williams has served in Catholic schools as a state-certified teacher, coach, department chair, dean, assistant principal, state-certified principal, and, since September 2020, as associate superintendent for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New Orleans. “I cannot wait until the day we can stand side by side – catechizing, educating and collaborating in the Catholic tradition of academic excellence,” says Williams. “I am here to serve you with vigor and passion.” Williams earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of New Orleans, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Our Lady of Holy Cross College in New Orleans, and a doctor of education in executive leadership in 2019, also from Holy Cross College. His dissertation centered around Catholic school

Dr. Mark Williams

Gerrie Byrne

marketing, enrollment management, and institutional advancement. His responsibilities at the archdiocese focused on the effectiveness of the 10 archdiocesan-owned high schools, and he served as the first point of contact for the remaining 13 private, religiousorder-owned high schools. Before his position with the archdiocesan Catholic Schools Office, Williams served in several positions at Archbishop Shaw High School in Marrero, including a stint as principal from 2015 to 2020. He also spent 16 years managing market sites and creating business plans for multiple locations in the New Orleans market for Shell Oil Company. Additionally, the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux has appointed Gerrie Byrne as associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction. Byrne has a bachelor’s degree in speech, language and hearing, is a certified teacher, and has a master’s degree in educational leadership. With a passionate commitment and dedication to the mission of Catholic

schools, Byrne worked her entire professional career in the Catholic school system. During her 28-year tenure in Catholic schools, she served as a teacher-minister in grades 1, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12. She also served as curriculum specialist and assistant principal at Central Catholic School in Morgan City. Selected as the curriculum specialist for the Office of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in January 2021, she used her experience and faithfilled passion to assist with curriculum needs for all schools within the diocese before assuming most of the tasks of the superintendent when that position became vacant. “I believe in the mission of Catholic education – to educate the whole child,” Byrne says. “Catholic schools are about more than academic excellence; we are about the formation of one of God’s greatest gifts, our children. I look to the future with excitement as we work together to further our mission of Catholic schools.” BC

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •31

St. Ann Church, Bourg, shortly after Hurricane Ida

Recovery process moving forward despite widespread damage, protocols and methodologies Story by Janet Marcel Ten months ago Hurricane Ida made landfall at Port Fourchon, LA, about 18 miles southwest of Grand Isle and about 60 miles south of New Orleans, wreaking havoc as it moved north through southeast Louisiana. Its catastrophic 150 plus mile-an-hour winds continued to lash the State of Louisiana as a Category 4 storm for about six hours after it made landfall, damaging several churches, Catholic schools and other facilities in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. Sunday, Aug. 29, 2021, is a day that will not soon be forgotten by anyone in south Louisiana. Of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux’s 39 churches, nine received major damage, 15 received moderate damage, and 15 received little to no significant damage. Of the 11 Catholic schools in the diocese, six received major damage; one received moderate damage, and four received little to no significant damage. In addition to the churches and schools, many other church parish facilities sustained anywhere from major to moderate damage including roof damage, shingle loss, water damage, collapsed walls, siding damage, broken mausoleums and tombstones; broken windows, and downed trees and fences. 32 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

The recovery process has been a frustratingly slow one for many, including the leadership team in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. William (Bill) Barbera, diocesan chief operating and financial officer, explains that there is a process that must adhered to in this situation. “FEMA has specific protocols and methodologies that, if followed, we should be able to navigate the maze of paperwork. The key to our success in working with FEMA is doing things properly and not trying to circumvent the system and creating doubt in our ability or desire to play by the rules. Quite simply, we need FEMA to be able to fund the rebuild and they make the rules!” Following is a timeline of the actions taken by “diocesan leadership” beginning immediately after Hurricane Ida’s landfall in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux on Aug. 29, 2021. With regard to disaster recovery, the term “diocesan leadership” refers to the bishop/diocesan administrator, diocesan chief operating and financial officer; diocesan Office of Building & Construction staff, and members of the diocesan Recovery Task Force that is made up of longstanding church parish leaders in various areas of the diocese.

Feature

Timeline • Aug. 30, 2021 – Diocesan leadership visits each location. • Early September 2021 – D.A. Lamont Public Adjusters is hired and begins site visits. (D.A. Lamont assisted with adjusting the diocese’s insurance claim immediately following the storm and is now functioning as the diocese’s FEMA grant manager). • Early September 2021 – Catholic Mutual Group (CMG) begins initial site visits (CMG is the insurance carrier who provides the diocese’s property insurance policy). • Mid September 2021 – CMG contracts Gulf Coast Claims Services (GCCS) to adjust the claim (GCCS is the firm that CMG contracts to handle their CAT-level claims-adjusting). • Late September 2021 – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) claim is filed for the diocese (FEMA is the Federal Government’s body for distributing disaster aid). • September—November 2021 – Damage is assessed and documented in detail. • December 2021 – Eight local architects are engaged to manage the rebuild. • January 2022 – Architects are assigned to locations. • February 2022 – Architects begin site visits; D.A. Lamont reports are being completed. • March 2022 – CMG begins approving D.A. Lamont reports. • April 2022 – Draft estimates on all locations are received.

The entrance to the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales

• May 2022 – Owner/architect agreements are signed; priority list of projects is approved. • June 2022 – Architects begin the Phase 2 - Design. The Rebuild Process for Each Building includes five phases: Phase 1 – Assessment Various parties including the diocesan Office of Building & Construction staff, D.A. Lamont, CMG, and GCCS have come together to assess the total damage across the entire diocese. This has included: • Detailed site evaluations • Expert reports (structural engineers, roofing experts, architects, etc.) • Regulatory bodies (civil parishes, floodplain managers, fire marshal, etc.) • Damage estimates of the cost to rebuild Phase 2 – Design • As damage estimates are completed, architects are being given their priority lists to ensure that urgent work is completed first (church roofs, for example). Architects then begin their process to build job orders and prepare to bid out the work. St. Eloi Community Center in Theriot July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •33

Feature

Holy Savior School, Lockport Phase 3 – Approval Because resources are limited, particularly cash flow, labor and materials, all projects must be approved by several parties before moving to bidding out the work: • Individual locations (church parishes, schools, ministries) • Diocesan leadership • FEMA (for projects that exceed certain amounts and may be eligible for reimbursement) Phase 4 – Bid • Once all parties agree on how to proceed, the jobs are then bid out. Some will need to go through a public bid process due to the size to satisfy FEMA requirements. All contractors will need to adhere to diocesan policies for licensing and insurance. Phase 5 – Construction • Once a bid is selected and approved, the actual construction work will begin. This will vary based on each individual building, as each will have different needs. Barbera explains that because this is a CAT (catastrophic) level event that is beyond the scope of a normal commercial property insurance policy, the diocese will benefit from working with FEMA. Even though the funds from CMG are coming in and will exhaust the policy limit, there is a significant difference to be made up. Under FEMA’s program guidelines, certain nonprofits, including houses of worship, are eligible for disaster relief benefits to go toward repairing buildings. Utilizing these two sources of funding will allow the diocese to recoup the majority of the loss without pushing any additional burden on to individual church parishes or their congregations. According to Barbera, the final stages of Phase 1 – Assessment were being completed as of May 2022. “The architectural firms that we have contracted with are currently beginning the Phase 2 – Design for a ‘first wave’ of projects according to their work capacity. These projects are being ranked in priority according to building type and type of project. Churches and schools are highest priority

buildings, with roof projects being the highest priority project,” clarifies Barbera. The diocese is moving into Phase 2 – Design with approximately 30 projects that the architect partners are currently working on. “We will continue to initiate more projects as the Design Phase for the current projects are brought to certain levels of completion. From there, various projects will be reviewed and approved to bid, then put out for bid, then executed once a bid is chosen. This process will be somewhat of a ‘revolving door’ for the next few years until all of our buildings have been repaired,” says Barbera. “It has been difficult to manage expectations. Our mindset has had to shift into a thinking of years of rebuilding, not months. Each building and location is unique and takes on a process of recovery that is very different than that of rebuilding a personal residence,” adds Barbera. “We will be working well into three years from Hurricane Ida’s landfall.” BC

Holy Family Church, Grand Caillou 34 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

Announcement

Tyler Neil/Bayou Catholic

Youth Formation Leadership Summit, July 22-24 The 2022 Youth Formation Leadership Summit sponsored by the diocesan Office Parish Support will be held Friday, July 22 through Sunday, July 24, at the Pastoral Center on Highway 311 in Schriever. The weekend is designed to be an opportunity for parish youth formation coordinators and their teams to come together to grow in relationship with God, both individually and communally. The event will include formation sessions, personal prayer time, time for team prayer and discernment, and liturgies. “The Office of Parish Support is excited to host the 4th annual Youth Formation Leadership Summit this summer! Summit weekend brings together youth formation coordinators, mentors and volunteers from across the diocese for time of prayer and growth …

and we have fun doing it! We encourage parish youth formation coordinators to come with their teams, as the weekend focuses on helping teams grow together spiritually and in friendship,” says Rebecca Abboud, liaison/youth formation specialist for the Office of Parish Support. “In addition, we’ll provide lots of concrete, practical things for participants to bring back to their parish youth formation programs. Personally, the Youth Formation Summit is one of my favorite weekends of the year,” adds Abboud. “It’s an absolute joy to gather to pray, laugh and learn with others who share a great love for the Lord and for our youth!” The content and practical details for the weekend will be focused primarily on middle school and high school formation. While the weekend is open to

anyone involved in youth formation, it is designed to best serve middle school or high school mentors. The event will begin with an optional Mass at 5 p.m., Friday, July 22, followed by dinner at 5:30 p.m. The first sessions will begin at approximately 7 p.m., with a full day of activities Saturday, and concluding at 3 p.m., Sunday. Mass will be celebrated during the day on Sunday. There is no cost to attend. Food and materials will be provided throughout the weekend. Registration is currently open by going to https://htparishsupport. org/youth-formation-summit-2022, and filling out the form. One registration form should be filled out for each person attending. Information about overnight travel accommodations can also be found by visiting the website. BC

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •35

Announcement

Newest members of the Vandebilt Catholic High School Hall of Fame were honored recently. Accepting awards from left, with school president Jeremy Gueldner, are: Brother Ronald Hingle, S.C., on behalf of Brother Anthon Miklic, S.C.; Dr. Fritz Rau along with his five sons on behalf of Rhoda Rau; and Mike Barker.

Vandebilt Catholic High School inducts three new Hall of Fame members Vandebilt Catholic High School inducted three new members into its Hall of Fame this year: the late Brother Anthon Miklic, S.C.; the late Rhoda Rau, and Michael Barker. The Vandebilt Catholic Hall of Fame was established to honor those with outstanding achievements, accomplishments, service and/or dedication to the school. In 2022, the school adopted a new nomination and selection process in order to further preserve, strengthen, and honor Vandebilt Catholic. The hope is that those selected as Hall of Fame members will be an inspiration to current students, staff and community members. Vandebilt Catholic Hall of Fame recognition is bestowed upon up to four long-time supporters of Vandebilt Catholic. Hall of Fame recipients are former faculty, staff, alumni, parents and/or community members who through their outstanding achievements in their spiritual, professional and civic lives, have brought honor to themselves and Vandebilt Catholic, and whose contributions have had a broad and positive impact on others.

Brother Ronald Hingle, S.C., provincial of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, accepted the Hall of Fame Induction award on behalf of Brother Anthon Miklic, S.C. Brother Anthon (Francis Joseph) Miklic, S.C., was born in Tuscaloosa, AL. He entered the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in Metuchen, NJ, in 1935, pronouncing first vows in 1937 and making final profession in Bay St. Louis, MS, in 1943. Brother Anthon probably had very few childhood memories that did not involve the Brothers. At only nine years old, Brother Anthon’s mother died and he was placed in foster care. In 1926, he arrived at the Boys’ Industrial School (BIS), an institution in Mobile, AL, conducted by the Brothers. He continued at McGill Institute and remained there until he entered the Brothers of the Sacred Heart community in Metuchen, NJ, in December 1935. During his years at BIS, Brother Anthon came into contact with those Brothers whose good example and influence helped develop in this young man many of the enviable characteristics that emerged

36 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

in his later life: Energy, initiative, discipline, a love of work, kindness and helpfulness. It was during these same years at BIS and McGill Institute that Brother Anthon became an accomplished musician and a star athlete. Well over six feet, he starred in football while in high school where he won All-State honors as a lineman for the McGill Yellow Jackets of Mobile, AL. In later years, his love for athletics led him to golf and he liked nothing better than to use his strength to drive the ball “a country mile” down the fairway. His strengths were not restricted to things physical. While in high school, he also studied music under the perfectionist, the late professor Joseph H. Taverna, M.M., and became an accomplished clarinetist. From his start as an elementary teacher for eight years in Brooklyn, N.Y.; Huntington, N.Y.; and the Bronx, N.Y.; to a four-year assignment at St. Aloysius in New Orleans, Brother Anthon demanded the same perfection of his students that he himself exhibited. Although he did not get a master’s degree until he was 53 years

Announcement

old, he had a lifelong admiration for learning. Much of his leisure time was spent reading. One of the happiest periods of Brother Anthon’s life was the 17 years he worked in Kenya and Uganda. He taught English, which was the most difficult subject to teach in African schools. To teach it required a toughminded person who would give unstintingly of himself in correcting and making students revise and rewrite. Brother Anthon’s students would see much success from his disciplined classroom. Brother Anthon completed his 50 year teaching career at Vandebilt Catholic High School in his “beloved” Houma, LA, from 1973 until he retired to Mobile in 1988, where he died at the age of 78 after some months in a nursing home when his needs became too great for the Brothers in his local community to care for him adequately. Brother Anthon was a serious, hardworking individual with a strong and sturdy constitution. He was a simple man in whom there was no guile. He was down to earth, and at times rigid. He liked everything in clear-cut terms with no subtleties whatsoever. Brother Anthon was a dependable and conscientious brother, totally committed to his community. His religious life is an example for us of one who offered to God all that he had to carry out the Christian education of youth. Dr. Fritz Rau, along with his five sons, accepted the Hall of Fame Induction award on behalf of Rhoda Rau. Rhoda Ann Guillot Rau was born in Houma, LA, and grew up downtown on Maple Ave. She attended St. Francis de Sales School and was a member of the only class to attend Houma Central Catholic High, later known as Vandebilt Catholic High from grades 7-12. While attending Vandebilt Catholic, Rhoda was a member of the drill squad and was crowned Homecoming Queen before graduating in 1971. After graduating, Rhoda worked in the insurance industry and married Dr. Fritz Rau ‘71, her high school sweetheart, in July 1975. They moved around during his medical training and

settled back in Houma in 1983. Rhoda then began to raise her five boys: Dr. Brian ‘97 (Teri), Dr. Jeremy ‘99 (Lori), Dr. Jeffrey ‘00 (Katelyn), Dr. Nicholas ‘03 (Jenny), and Patrick ‘06 (Monica). All five boys were raised with a Catholic education, all attending St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School and Vandebilt Catholic High School. Rhoda has 15 grandchildren, 12 of which continue to carry on the tradition and currently attend St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School and Vandebilt Catholic. Rhoda was well known for her involvement in every school sport or activity. She was an avid Vandebilt Catholic fan. Rhoda was a devoted mother and grandmother and was very involved in the community. She participated in the medical auxiliary, carnival, bereavement committees, school functions and class reunions. Her outgoing personality and involvement in the community resulted in a vast network of friends and acquaintances. Rhoda never met a stranger. Rhoda passed away after a short battle with cancer in 2019. Her legacy continues through the Rhoda Ann Guillot Rau Foundation, which was established in her honor to assist special needs children in a faith based learning program at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School. Michael (Mike) Barker was born and raised in Houma, LA. After graduating from Vandebilt Catholic in 1978, Mike attended Louisiana State University, and Nicholls State University where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in business in 1983. Soon after, Mike entered the automotive business as a salesman at Terrebonne Ford. He then transitioned to sales manager. In 1990, he opened Barker Mitsubishi as dealer principal and in 1995 added Barker Kia. In 2000, he purchased Barker Buick GMC and Barker Honda, where he currently holds the position of dealer principal for both dealerships. During his 39 years in the automotive industry, Mike has earned countless accolades and served on many boards at the local, state and national levels. He currently serves on the Louisiana Dealer Services Inc. – Executive Board

of Directors; New Orleans Buick/GMC LMA – Treasurer; Buick GMC National Fixed Operations Board, National Dealer Council, and the Louisiana Honda Dealers Advertising Association - President. Some of the awards earned for Barker Buick GMC include Standards for Excellence (multiple award winner) and GMC Leaders of Distinction (multiple award winner.) At Barker Honda, some awards earned included the Honda President’s Award Elite, Honda President’s Award (multiple award winner,) and Honda Financial Council of Excellence (multiple award winner.) In 1999, Mike earned the All-Star Dealer Award for Exceptional Community and Industry Service, which is given at the American International Dealers Association (AIADA) Gala in Washington, D.C. Along with being a stand-out businessman, Mike has always been dedicated to giving back to the community. Over the years, he has been a Kiwanis Club member, served on the Board of Directors for the Houma Chamber of Commerce, and the Morganza Action Coalition. His dedication can also be seen in his sponsorships of local awards and programs, such as the Woman’s Business/Alliance Athena Award and as a corporate sponsor for the Terrebonne Parish NAACP for the past 24 years. He is a 1995 graduate of the Leadership Terrebonne Program and has also been an active member of the Krewe of Houmas for 35 years. He has also served the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in a number of roles including cemetery trust, pastoral council vice chairman, Legatus vice president and on the strategic plan executive committee. Mike has been married to his wife and VCHS 1979 alumna, Angelique for 38 years. They are the parents of three children, Michael Jr. ‘06 (Jamie); Michell ‘07 (Zuna), and Allyson ‘12. And, they have five grandchildren. BC

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •37

Announcement

Novena in honor of St. Anne, July 17-26 Closing Mass July 26 at Shrine The St. Anne Association’s annual Novena in honor of Saint Anne will begin July 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Calvary Grotto Shrine in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Thibodaux with a Mass, followed by prayers and meditation. Each day thereafter prayer and meditation will begin at 6:30 p.m. On the 10th day, which is the feast day of Saints Anne and Joachim (July 26), a closing Mass is celebrated at 6:30 p.m. at the shrine. Saint Anne is the patron saint of mothers, grandmothers, women who desire pregnancy, women in labor and women who want husbands, to name a few. Countless miracles have been reported in the past which members attribute to the intervention of Saint Anne, including women who have found husbands and couples who conceived children. All are invited to attend. For more information, contact Joanie Lirette (985) 637-6906 or Connie Richard (985) 447-6559. BC

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Annual American Indian liturgical celebration, July 8 The 27th annual American Indian liturgical celebration for the feast of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, the “Lily of the Mohawks,” will be celebrated Friday, July 8, at 6:30 p.m., at Holy Family Church in Grand Caillou. The Kateri Chaplet and excerpts of Kateri’s life will begin at 6 p.m. Kateri is the first American Indian in the United States to be canonized. She was canonized in Rome by Pope Benedict XVI, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2012. The celebration is sponsored by the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, Holy Family Church parish, and the Saint Kateri Circle of Dulac. BC

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808 Barrow St. • Houma, LA 70360 July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •39

Announcement

Jami Chadwick named new principal of St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School

Jami Chadwick

Jami Chadwick has been named the new principal for St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School in Thibodaux for the 2022-23 school year; it was announced recently by Very Rev. Vicente DeLa Cruz, V.F., pastor of St. Joseph Co-Cathedral in Thibodaux. Chadwick has been serving as assistant principal at St. Joseph this school year. The Thibodaux native has a bachelor of science in business administration and a master’s in education plus 30 hours in administration from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux. Throughout her career, Chadwick taught in St. Mary and Lafourche Parish public schools, at L.E. Fletcher Technical Community College, and at St. Joseph school since 2019. She also served as ELL and Migrant Coordinator for the Lafourche Parish public school system. She has two children, Anna Catherine Chadwick, 21; and Amelie Elaine Chadwick, 19. She is a parishioner of St. Thomas Aquinas Church parish on the Nicholls State University campus. BC

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40 • Bayou Catholic • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • July 2022

Vatican News

Pope Francis says Catholic marriage preparation is a ‘duty of justice’ in text for dioceses By HANNAH BROCKHAUS Vatican City (CNA) Adequate preparation for the sacrament of marriage is a matter of justice in the Catholic Church, Pope Francis said in a new Vatican document for priests and dioceses working with engaged couples. “There is therefore first and foremost a duty to accompany with a sense of responsibility those who manifest the intention to be united in marriage, so that they may be preserved from the traumas of separation and never lose faith in love,” the pope said in the preface to “Catechumenal Itineraries for Married Life,” published on June 15. The 97-page booklet, prepared by the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, is a pastoral tool for bishops, priests, married couples, and people serving in family ministry. The document “is a gift and it is a task,” Francis said, underlining that it offered guidelines that should be adapted to particular cultures and situations, rather than being considered “magic formulas.” In his preface, Pope Francis noted the church’s years-long preparation for candidates to the priesthood and religious life, and how marriage preparation sometimes only lasts a few weeks. “It is therefore a duty of justice for the mother church to devote time and energy to the preparation of those

whom the Lord calls to so great a mission as the family,” he said. The document is available in Italian and will soon be released in other languages, the Vatican said. It is structured in three stages: Marriage preparation, the wedding celebration, and accompaniment in the first years of married life. “The church, in every age, is called to proclaim anew, especially to young people, the beauty and abundance of grace that are contained in the sacrament of marriage and in the family life that flows from it,” Pope Francis said. He noted that married couples make up the majority of the Catholic faithful and are often pillars in parish life, volunteer groups, and Catholic movements and associations. “There is also a feeling of justice that should animate us. The church is a mother, and a mother does not play favorites among her children. She does not treat them with disparity; she gives everyone the same care, the same attention, the same time,” he said. “Dedicating time is a sign of love: If we do not devote time to a person, it is a sign that we do not love them.” Spouses are “guardians of life,” he said, pointing out that “It is from families that vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life are born; and it is families that make up the fabric of society and ‘mend its tears’ with patience and daily sacrifices.”

There is a concern, he explained, that if marriage preparation is superficial, couples will run the risk of celebrating a null marriage, or having too weak a foundation to withstand the inevitable crises. “These failures bring with them great suffering and leave deep wounds in people. They become disillusioned, bitter, and in the most painful cases, even end up no longer believing in the vocation to love, inscribed by God himself in the heart of the human being,” he said. The Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life said that the marriage preparation booklet was an initiative to mark the Amoris Laetitia Family Year, which is dedicated to deepening pastoral outreach to families. The year marks the 50th anniversary of Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation on love in the family, which ended June 26, with the 10th edition of the World Meeting of Families in Rome. The pope said he hoped that another document would soon be published dedicated to men and women “who have experienced the failure of their marriage and are living in a new union or are civilly remarried.” The church wants to accompany these couples “so that they do not feel abandoned and can find accessible and fraternal places of welcome, help in discernment and participation in communities,” he wrote. BC

July 2022 • Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux • Bayou Catholic •41

Sports Story

Overtime Ed Daniels

LHSAA select school championships are history In the reporting business they call it burying the lead. That’s when something else is written initially, and then somewhere down the page, the real meat of the story, is found. So, here’s the lead. The LHSAA’s June 2nd meeting was wildly successful. Why? Because the association is forcing the select schools, the non-publics, to go back and play in the same championship venues as the public schools. Me? I can’t wait to go back to Sulphur and have a supposed state championship game halted by the umpires because a

foul ball from another game was hit on to an adjacent field. Don’t laugh. It happened. I was there. Gone are the superbly run championships by the select schools at all of their venues. The biggest effort possible was made by a swarm of volunteers to make sure the athletes (remember them), had a championship experience. The latest was in Hammond at Southeastern Louisiana for the select school baseball championships. Despite rain hampering the schedule, praise was heaped on the organizers. And, a lot of money was made. Guess what? After the LHSAA got their cut, the cash went back to the schools. Which brings us to the tipping point. In December, Jesuit and Catholic played for the Division I championship at Yulman Stadium. The schools netted $150,000. Each school got $75,000. That’s after all expenses, and after the Louisiana High School Athletic Association got their 10 percent cut, off the top. The three football games played outside the Superdome returned a total of $264,000 in net profit to six schools. Private schools rejoiced. Public schools, like Ponchatoula, who brought half of Tangipahoa Parish to their class 5A final in the Superdome, scratched their head. Ponchatoula got a check for just over $11,000. The select schools made all of this possible without one sponsor.

Outside sponsors were forbidden by the LHSAA. So, that’s the lead. Here is, as Paul Harvey would say, the rest of the story. The executive committee also voted to change the definition of what is a select school. If the current definition stands, most of the Orleans Parish charter schools, including football powers Karr and Warren Easton, would be select. So, would John Ehret. Yep, John Ehret. Of course, schools can change their enrollment process, quickly, to conform to the new criteria, or we can wait till the January convention, when membership, the majority public schools, will likely vote by a wide margin to put things back to the way they were before. Or, something close to it. John Ehret doesn’t want to be select. In January, the school voted against a proposal to re-unite the publics and privates in football. That is their right. And, in January, I can’t imagine a single Jefferson Parish public school voting for any proposal that would keep them select. That is their right. But, hey, at least in this space, we didn’t bury the lead. The select school championships were quite successful. And, poof, just like that, on a Thursday in June, they went away. BC

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Bayou Catholic Magazine July 2022

Articles inside

Overtime

Youth Formation Summit, July 22-24

St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School names new principal

Vandebilt inducts three new Hall of Fame members

Catholic school superintendent and associate named

St. Anne Novena, July 17-26

Recovery process moving forward despite challenges

Disaster Recovery Group active in diocese

Father Carlos Talavera celebrates 25 years

Scripture Readings

Pope Speaks

Heavenly Recipes

Reading Between the Lines

Daily Prayer for Priests, Deacons Religious and Seminarians

From the Editor

Questions of Faith

Message from our Administrator