Bayou Catholic - Nov 2013 by Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Bayou

Catholic

The magazine for the people of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

ยกGracias, Bishop Jacobs! Concert honors bishop for work among Hispanics

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diocese of

Houma-Thibodaux Seminarians Alex Gaudet

Stephen Lefort

Jacob Lipari

3rd theology notre dame

Christ the Redeemer thibodaux

Sacred Heart cutoff

St Francis de Sales houma

Cody Chatagnier

Jean-Marie Nsambu

Christopher Dehart

special assignment in the diocese

1st theology notre dame

St Anthony | houma

St Genevieve | thibodaux

Annunziata | houma

Brice Higginbotham

John David Matherne

Paul Birdsall

1st theology notre dame

St Thomas Aquinas thibodaux

St Mary’s Nativity raceland

Sacred Heart | cutoff

Brett Lapeyrouse junior | st ben’s St Joseph | chauvin

Luke Robicheaux junior | st ben’s Sacred Heart morgan city St Thomas Aquinas thibodaux

John Casey

Daniel Duplantis

junior | st ben’s

sophomore | st ben’s

St Francis de Sales houma

St Louis | bayou blue

Nick Lecompte freshman | st ben’s Annunziata | houma

Patrick Riviere junior | st ben’s St Thomas Aquinas thibodaux

Cody Murphy sophomore | St Ben’s Holy Rosary | larose

“the more the mission calls you to go out..., let your heart be the more closely united to Christ’s heart, full of mercy and love.” pope francis addressing seminarians

(985) 850-3149 | vocations@htdiocese.org | htvocations.com | #htvocations

Contents

On Our Cover

Over 1,300 filled Vandebilt Catholic High School’s Brother Alfred Kolb center to attend a concert Oct. 19 in honor of Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs. The concert featured worldrenowned artist Martin Valverde and his band from Mexico. The bishop was presented with a special plaque for his support of Hispanic Ministry.

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Fantastic! Bishop Jacobs gives thanks to God

186 Special

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Cover Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier

Red and Blue

Heavenly Recipes

Masses honor public servants

Polly’s Chicken Stew

God is Real

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Celebration

Vocations

Maria Immacolata is GOLDEN

‘Dating’ in the priesthood

• Pope Speaks

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• Question Corner

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196 • Reflections

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• Young Voices

192

• Seeing Clairely

202

• Sports

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Call us today! 985-850-3132 or email padams@htdiocese.org Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

Church LIfe

1,300+ Hispanics honor Bishop Jacobs Over 1,300 filled Vandebilt Catholic High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brother Alfred Kolb center to attend a concert Oct. 19 in honor of Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs. The concert featured worldrenowned artist Martin Valverde (photo above, center) and his band from Mexico. Children dressed in native costumes sang to the honoree. The bishop (photo below, right) was presented with a plaque given to him by (from left) Michelle Bermudez of Annunziata Church in Houma; Father Isaias Galvez, F.M.M., diocesan director of Hispanic Ministry; and Omar Espinosa of St. Andrew Church in Amelia. Also honored was Louis G. Aguirre (photo below, left), diocesan coordinator of Formation Ministries, for his work among Hispanic Catholics. With him are Bishop Jacobs, Valverde, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre and Father Galvez.

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Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

www.bayoucatholic.com

Tribute

Fantastic!

Story by Louis Aguirre Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier

Bishop Jacobs says ‘I give thanks to God. I have been blessed.’

As Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs enters retirement, he does not appear ready to just kick back on a couch and watch television, or travel around the world. “Many years ago I decided I am here to serve the People of God wherever I am.” The bishop says he intends to continue serving as a priest and bishop whenever asked and wherever needed. He has chosen to live the rest of his life in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, a place he truly calls “home.” “I want to remain active,” he says, “I was ordained to be a priest so I want to continue my priestly ministry: celebrating Mass, sacraments, counseling, proclaiming the Gospel, praying with people, reconciling and supporting Bishop Shelton Fabre in any way.” At a Farewell Mass celebrated at the Pastoral Center last month, the bishop told those in attendance that he was called to “bring the love of the Father to everyone.” He also recalled how he had a conversion experience through the Charismatic Renewal Movement and how that has changed his life forever. The Farewell Mass was attended by clergy, religious, lay leaders and diocesan staff. Bishop Jacobs took that opportunity to thank all those in attendance for their dedicated work. He praised them for “tirelessly building the Kingdom of God” in their midst. In recalling his 10 years as the Third Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, Bishop Jacobs says, “I am grateful to have been able to serve in this diocese and to have been part of its growth and ministry. It is a pleasure to serve the people of the Bayou Country, especially because they are so accepting and warm.” “As I look back on the past 10 years,”

he continues, “My hope was to build on the great foundation already laid by (the late) Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux and Bishop Michael Jarrell. My task, then, was to continue to address the needs of the diocese.” The bishop says he is proud and grateful to God for many things that continue to grow and flourish, including having 16 seminarians studying for the priesthood, having ordained a large number of priests and deacons, reaching out to young people through the Office of Youth Ministry and Steubenville on the Bayou, confirmation of thousands of young people, Mall Ministry, evangelization, the expansion of Hispanic Ministry, focus on young adults, conferences for men, women and couples; the expansion of the Pastoral Center, and Bayou Catholic and the Office of Communications. “The list goes on and on,” he says, adding that all these things have been accomplished while being mindful of being on budget. He says the staff has been a joy to work with. “They are so dedicated,” he says, adding: “they are committed to promoting the Gospel, and embracing the vision I’ve shared with them over the years.” “I know that over the years I have made decisions that were not fully understood or agreed with,” says Bishop Jacobs. “If I have offended anyone, I ask forgiveness – it has never been my intention to offend or hurt anyone. At the same time I forgive anyone who may have offended me.” The bishop says he does envision taking some time to work on his family tree, to go to Southland Mall to minister at the Mall Ministry store more often and he is open to invitations to be a presenter at conferences. In typical fashion, when asked how he feels, the response is a loud and joyful “FANTASTIC.” He concludes by saying “I give thanks to God. I have been blessed.” To which we can all add: “Bishop Jacobs, we give thanks to God for you and your ministry and guidance to us for these 10 years. We look forward to having you among us for many, many more years!”

Diocesan 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. For detailed reporting procedures see: www.htdiocese.org. Click on the Safe Environment tab, then on S.E. Forms and Links.

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 HoumaThibodaux. 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. Vea el detallado procedimiento de informes en: www.htdiocese.org. Haga clic en Safe Environment y luego S.E. Forms and Links.

Ñöôøng daây ñieän thoaïi Cöùu giuùp Giaùo phaän

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. Caàn bieát theâm chi tieát veà caùch baùo caùo xin vaøo trang web cuûa ñòa phaän laø www.htdiocese.org. Baám vaøo muïc Safe Environment, sau ñoù tôùi muïc S.E. Forms vaø Links. www.bayoucatholic.com

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Tribute

Bishop Jacobs’ Coat of Arms

Farewell Mass

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A farewell Mass for Bishop Sam G. Jacobs was celebrated recently at the Pastoral Center in Schriever. Bishop Jacobs’ brother Mike Jacobs and the bishop’s nephews, great niece and great nephews, friends, priests and pastoral center staff attended the Mass. A luncheon was held for those in attendance after the Mass.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Seminarian Education Burses

What is a seminarian burse fund? A seminarian burse fund is an invested sum of money where the interest is used in perpetuity to help fund the education of men to the priesthood in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux.

How does someone establish a seminarian burse fund? Very simply, a burse may be established and named for anyone you choose, be it family, friend, bishop, priest, religious, etc.

When is a seminarian burse complete? A seminarian burse fund is complete once it reaches $15,000. If you choose to continue to contribute, a new burse will be created for you.

Who do I contact to contribute to or establish a burse fund? To contribute or establish a burse, send funds to Pastoral Center, Attn: Seminarian Burse, P. O. Box 505, Schriever, LA 70395 or call Jeremy Becker, Director of Stewardship and Development, at 985-850-3155 for more information.

Completed Burses of $15,000 each

Note: those wtih a number stipulates the number of completed burses* - Anonymous - Mr. & Mrs. C. Thomas Bienvenu - Harry Booker - Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux (3)* - Rev. Adrian J. Caillouet - Rev. James Louis Caillouet - Bishop L. Abel Caillouet - Judge/Mrs L. P. Caillouet - Msgr. Lucien J. Caillouet - Abdon J. & Ada B. Callais - Harold & Gloria Callais Family - Paul A. Callais - Peter W. Callais - Vincent & Fannie Cannata - Minor Sr. & Lou Ella Cheramie - Maude & Edith Daspit - Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis family (3)* - Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis

- C. Remie Duplantis - Marie Elise Duplantis - Warren J. Harang, Jr. - Msgr. Raphael C. Labit - Msgr. Francis J. Legendre - Rev. Charles Menard - Dr. & Mrs. M.V. Marmande & Fly - Donald Peltier, Sr. (3)* - Harvey Peltier (30)* - Richard Peltier - The Peltier Foundation (2) - Orleans & Louella Pitre - Msgr. Joseph Wester - Robert R. Wright, Jr. - Rev. Kermit Trahan - Diocesan K of C - Endowment Fund - $119,136.90

September 2013 Burse Contributions Donald Peltier, Sr. #4 ...................................... $2,000.00 Joseph “Jay” Fertitta .......................................... $100.00 Mr. Eledier Broussard ........................................ $100.00 Juliette & Eugene Wallace ................................. $100.00

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Open Burses with Balance as of 9/30/13 Mr. Eledier Broussard ................. $13,200.00 St. Bernadette Men’s Club ................... $12,000.00 Msgr. Raphael C. Labit #2 .................. $10,840.00 Sidney J. & Lydie C. Duplantis ........... $10,800.00 Harvey Peltier #31 .............................. $10,486.91 Clay Sr. & Evelida Duplantis #2 .......... $10,000.00 C. Remie Duplantis #2 ........................ $10,000.00 Marie Elise Duplantis #2 ..................... $10,000.00 Maude & Edith Daspit #2 .................... $10,000.00 Msgr. George A. Landry ...................... $10,000.00 Elie & Dot Klingman .............................. $8,320.00 Mr. & Mrs. George C. Fakier ................. $7,500.00 Rev. Victor Toth ..................................... $7,000.00 Donald Peltier, Sr. #4 .............................. $7,000.00 Brides of the Most Blessed Trinity ......... $5,935.00 Rev. Peter Nies ..................................... $5,810.00 Mr. & Mrs. Love W. Pellegrin ................. $5,000.00 Anonymous #2 ...................................... $5,000.00 Mr. & Mrs. Caliste Duplantis Fmly.#4..... $5,000.00 Rev. William M. Fleming ........................ $5,000.00 Rev. Kasimir Chmielewski ..................... $4,839.00 Rev. Gerard Hayes ................................ $4,636.00 Msgr. William Koninkx ........................... $4,500.00 Rev. Henry Naquin ................................. $4,191.00

Harry Booker #2 .................................... $4,138.00 Catholic Daughters ................................ $3,680.00 Kelly Curole Frazier ............................... $3,610.96 Joseph “Jay” Fertitta .............................. $3,600.00 J. R. Occhipinti ...................................... $3,400.00 Mr. & Mrs. Galip Jacobs ........................ $3,060.00 St. Jude ................................................. $3,000.00 Diocesan K of C #2 ............................... $2,894.62 Rev. Peter H. Brewerton ........................ $2,600.00 Anawin Community ............................... $2,300.00 Rev. Guy Zeringue ................................ $2,200.00 Msgr. James Songy ............................... $2,075.00 Mrs. Ayres A. Champagne ..................... $2,000.00 Willie & Emelda St. Pierre ...................... $2,000.00 Rev. H. C. Paul Daigle ........................... $1,900.00 James J. Buquet, Jr. ............................... $1,650.00 Msgr. Francis J. Legendre #2 ................ $1,645.00 Rev. Robert J. Sevigny .......................... $1,600.00 Msgr. Emile J. Fossier ........................... $1,545.00 Dr. William Barlette, Sr........................... $1,525.00 Msgr. Stanislaus Manikowski ................ $1,525.00 Msgr. John L. Newfield .......................... $1,200.00 Warren J. Harang, Jr. #2 ......................... $1,200.00 Rev. Clemens Schneider ....................... $1,000.00

St. Joseph Italian Society ...................... $1,000.00 Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux #4 ........... $1,000.00 Msgr. John G. Keller .............................. $1,000.00 Mrs. Shirley Conrad ............................... $1,000.00 Deacon Robert Dusse’ ............................. $950.00 Rev. Anthony Rousso ............................... $850.00 Deacon Willie Orgeron ............................. $800.00 Deacon Roland Dufrene ........................... $750.00 Mr. & Mrs. John Marmande ...................... $700.00 Juliette & Eugene Wallace ......................... $700.00 Deacon Edward J. Blanchard ................... $660.00 Deacon Raymond LeBouef ...................... $550.00 Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Cannata .................... $500.00 Ronnie Haydel .......................................... $485.00 Deacon Harold Kurtz ................................ $300.00 Richard Peltier #2 ..................................... $300.00 Claude Bergeron ...................................... $250.00 Jacob Marcello .......................................... $200.00 Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Naquin .......................... $150.00 Rev. Hubert C. Broussard ........................ $ 50.00 Deacon Eldon Frazier .............................. $ 50.00 Deacon Nick Messina .............................. $ 50.00 Rev. Warren Chassaniol ........................... $ 50.00

Overall Seminarian Burse Totals: $1,423,928.39 www.bayoucatholic.com

Comment The Pope Speaks

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VATICAN CITY (CNS) -Catholic media are important not only as means of documenting church events, Pope Francis said, but especially as means for bringing the church and the Gospel closer to people. Catholic media professionals must report news and share stories, “dialoguing with a world that has a need to be listened to and understood, but also needs to receive the message of true life,” the pope said Oct. 18. In a message to employees of the Vatican Television Center, which was marking its 30th anniversary as a producer and distributor of Vatican and papal video, Pope Francis said the Catholic Church needs the best communications media available, but they must be used as a service to the church and part of its evangelizing mission. “We live in a world in which there is almost nothing that doesn’t have something to do with the universe of the media. Increasingly sophisticated instruments reinforce the almost pervasive role of communications technologies, language and forms in daily life, and not only among the young,” the pope said. In the midst of all those words, sounds and images, he said, it is not easy to recount events related to the life of the church, “which is a sign and instrument of an intimate union with God and is the body of Christ, the people of

CNS PHOTO/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO

Kenneth F. Hackett, new U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, presents his letters of credential to Pope Francis during a meeting at the Vatican Oct. 21. Hackett, the retired president of Catholic Relief Services, began his role Oct. 21, filling a position that had been vacant for nearly a year.

God, the temple of the Holy Spirit.” Catholic media professionals, the pope said, must have “a strong ability to read reality in a spiritual key,” as well as a thorough understanding of and respect for the religious events they are covering. The Vatican Television Center, he said, can bring the pope’s words to a massive audience, including

to the lonely and to people ho live in places where professing Christianity requires courage. “It is important to remember that the church is present in the world of communications, in all its forms, most of all to lead people to an encounter with the Lord Jesus,” he said. “Only an encounter with Jesus can transform human hearts and human history.”

Catholic media bring church closer to people, pope says Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

Question Corner Father Kenneth Doyle

Doctrine of infallibility

Q. What is the church’s foundation for declaring itself to be infallible when the pope speaks “ex cathedra” and with the entire magisterium supporting him? I understand that the church made this declaration around 1870 A.D., and it seems a little curious to arrive at that conclusion nearly 2,000 years after the life of Christ. How many teachings on faith and morals have been declared infallible, and what are some of them? And if something has not been defined as infallible, are we free to question and discuss? (Hudson, Wis.)

A. The doctrine of infallibility, while sometimes misunderstood by Catholics and others, is clearly defined by the church’s Code of Canon Law. Canon 749, Section 1, explains that the pope may teach infallibly when he proclaims by definitive act that a certain doctrine of faith or morals is to be believed by the faithful. He must clearly state that he intends to teach that doctrine as infallible and irreformable. The consensus among theologians is that only twice in the church’s history has the Holy Father by himself exercised this prerogative: in 1854 with the dogma of the Immaculate Conception and in 1950 with the

Assumption. But there is a second manner of infallible pronouncements (Canon 749, 2), and this happens when the college of bishops, joined in an ecumenical council, proclaim that a certain truth is to be held by all the faithful. An example would be at Nicaea in 325 A.D., when it was declared that Jesus is “of the same substance” (nature) as God the Father. The doctrine of infallibility did not suddenly appear in 1870. Rather, it is founded on Christ’s promise to the apostles that he would send the Holy Spirit, who “will guide you to all truth” (Jn 16:13). That secure sense of protection from error on fundamental teachings was part of the early history of the church and is reflected in St. Augustine’s fifth-century statement, “Rome has spoken; the case is concluded.” Infallible declarations have been issued only sparsely during the church’s two-millennium history and have usually been formulated in response to particular issues that had been disputed. But, as the Catechism of the Catholic Church explains (No. 892), even the ordinary teaching of the bishops, as successors of the apostles and joined with the pope, are to be followed “with religious assent.” So where does that leave Catholics as to their freedom “to question and discuss” noninfallible teachings? The answer seems to depend on the particular teaching -- how fundamental it is and how solidly embedded in the history and tradition of the church. For example, in 1994, when Pope John Paul II said in “Ordinatio Sacerdotalis” that the church lacks the authority to ordain women, the word infallible did not appear. But the pontiff did say that this teaching should be “definitively held” and suggested that further debate was pointless. But on the issue of mandatory celibacy for clergy, Archbishop Pietro Parolin, the new papal secretary of state, noted recently that this is a matter of church discipline and not dogma, that the early church had married priests and that the matter is therefore open to discussion.

Woman’s Blog on scriptural readings

Q. Is there anything wrong with a woman writing a reflection on the readings for the Mass each day on her own personal blog? I am the volunteer coordinator for Catholic ministry at a local women’s prison and teach an RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) class for those inquiring into the faith. I believe that I know the basics of our faith very well, and I am loyal to the magisterium of the church. I know that only ordained clergy can give a homily in the context of a Mass, but does what I am doing violate any 181 rules? (Indianapolis)

A. I applaud what you are doing and encourage you to continue it. True, Canon 767 of the church’s Code of Canon Law says that “among the forms of preaching, the homily, which is part of the liturgy itself and is reserved to a priest or deacon, is pre-eminent.” But what you are doing is apart from the context of the Mass and is clearly not a homily. You are simply reflecting on the daily readings -- and you have every right to do that; I would think that many might benefit from a feminine perspective. Catholic News Service

Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@gmail.com and 40 Hopewell St., Albany, N.Y. 12208 www.bayoucatholic.com

Reflections Readings Between The Lines Father Glenn LeCompte

Offering thanks to God

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Thanksgiving Day is approaching. In 1789 President George Washington, acting on the recommendation of Congress, declared November 26 of that year a national day of thanksgiving to “almighty God” for his care and protection of the people prior to the Revolutionary War, the manifestation of his mercy, his providential guidance, especially regarding the establishment of government, for tranquility, unity and plenty experienced after the War, for civil liberties, for “the means of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge,” and for divinely granted favors in general. This proclamation was instrumental to the establishment of our national observance of a day of thanksgiving to be offered to, yes, “almighty God!” In Luke 17:11-19 Jesus heals 10 lepers. This is one of the Gospel readings suggested for a Mass of Thanksgiving, which may be offered on or near Thanksgiving Day. Of the 10 lepers in Luke 17:11-19, one has apparently learned well the need to express thanks, inasmuch as he returns to Jesus to thank him. In desperation the 10 lepers ask that Jesus show them mercy, implying that they want to be healed (17:13). Although he has not yet healed them he tells them to go and show themselves to the priests (17:14). According to Leviticus 14:1-32, the priest is to

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

examine lepers to declare whether they are still infected or have been healed. If healed, they are able to participate with the priest in a purification ritual, which includes a sacrificial offering to God. Thus, Jesus tells the 10 lepers to follow the usual procedure, whereupon they proceed to do so, even though they have not yet been healed. They are healed, however, on their way to see the priests. The grateful leper’s action indicates his belief that God works through Jesus. Both God (17:15) and Jesus (17:16) are objects of his praise. He prostrates before Jesus as an act of homage (17:16). Jesus interprets his actions as gestures of thanksgiving. In the Old Testament,thanks is given to God (Psalm 118). In other words, the thankful leper substitutes acts of gratitude toward Jesus for the purification ritual and sacrifice. The grateful leper experiences a second healing, which is more important than the first. He comes to faith in Jesus, and his faith leads him to salvation. Additionally, this leper is an unlikely hero for the story, because he is a Samaritan. The cultural identity of the thankful leper has two implications: 1) Jesus offers salvation to all, 2) the importance of the practice of thanking God, through Jesus Christ, is brought into sharper focus. As a character in Luke’s story, the thankful leper undergoes a change from being one who is ostracized by society to being one who finds salvation, that is, life in God through Christ. The drastic change which the thankful leper experiences has overwhelmingly positive results for him. Like the grateful leper, all who are led to salvation through faith recognize

the need to thank God for his presence and action in their lives, a presence and action most clearly manifest in Jesus’ ministry. The thankful leper and President Washington both teach us an important lesson for our faith. Offering thanks to God is not only important it is necessary. At the beginning of his proclamation, Washington states that it is “the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor.” This statement provides the motive for his declaration of a day dedicated to thanking almighty God. The offering of thanksgiving to God has many implications for our lives. First, offering thanks to God for the blessings of our lives constitutes a recognition that God is the source of those favors. Many in our society who have let themselves be overtaken with an agnostic, or even atheistic, materialism tend to attribute the goodness they experience in life to their own efforts or even to chance. Our nation, however, still observes Thanksgiving as a day to make a fitting response to God for all he has done for us. Secondly, offering thanks keeps us in a spiritual communion with God. Thirdly, thanking God helps us to look to the future with hope, even in the midst of life’s challenges and tragedies, because we believe that the God who has blessed us up to this point will, out of love, continue to do so. As we gather to feast and visit with family this Thanksgiving Day, let us not forget the most important reason for which we gather – to offer thanks to God.

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Saints

Agnes of Assisi 1197 -1253 November 16

CNS

Moved by the example of St. Francis of Assisi and her older sister, St. Clare of Assisi, Caterina Offreduccio left home at 15 to become a nun committed to living in radical poverty. She joined Clare at a Benedictine convent while their convent at San Damiano was under construction, and took the name Agnes. One account says her family’s violent effort to retrieve her was thwarted by a miracle, but this was omitted from her canonization documents. Around 1220, Clare became the abbess of a new foundation of Poor Clares near Florence, and supervised their expansion to Mantua, Padua and Venice. She also supported Clare’s struggle for the order to continue in complete poverty. The sisters are buried together in Assisi.

Clement of Rome first century November 23

Crosiers

In the revised New American Bible, Clement is listed as the fourth pope, serving 88-97. He is an important witness to the first century of the Catholic Church. Early Christian writers called him a disciple of the apostles, and he may be the Clement mentioned in St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians (4:3). As bishop of Rome, Clement wrote an Epistle to the Corinthians that is believed to be the earliest surviving record of an intervention by Rome in the affairs of a local church. Whatever problems prompted the letter, Clement gently urges the Corinthians to reconcile and accept apostolic tradition. Some legends suggesting his martyrdom are discounted. He is the patron saint of marble-workers and stonecutters.

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“I never felt like just a name on a folder. They treat you like family.” – VALERIE MANNS Cancer Survivor, Houma

Catherine of Alexandria c. 287-305 November 25

Crosiers

Catherine is thought to have been born to a noble family in Alexandria, Egypt. Through a vision, this scholarly young woman converted to Christianity and began evangelizing others, including the wife of the pagan emperor who was persecuting Christians. According to legend, after she defied the emperor and refuted philosophers brought in to test her faith, she was imprisoned and tortured. She was put on a rotating spiked wheel; when it broke, she was beheaded. She is venerated as the Great Martyr St. Catherine in the Orthodox tradition and her voice was among those heard by St. Joan of Arc. She is the patron saint of wheelwrights, and also a patron of jurists, philosophers, students and teachers.

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Saints

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Special

Gymnasium named for ‘Coach’ LeJeune Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier Alumni, parents, students, faculty members, family and friends recently gathered at E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux for a presentation and reception honoring athletic director Preston LeJeune with the naming of the new school gym, the “Preston LeJeune Gymnasium.”

184

Diocesan Programs This Month

Gift Baskets • Home Decor • Jewelry

“Spotlight on the Diocese” Host: Louis Aguirre With Guests: Mrs. Shawn Lapeyrouse Conference Director

Mrs. Catherine Klingman

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Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

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Yockey Bernard honored

185

The new artificial turf field, that was named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yockey Bernard Fieldâ&#x20AC;? was rededicated recently at E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux. Preston LeJeune and Matt Bernard spoke about Yockey Bernard during the rededication ceremony of the new field. The EDW football team ran through ribbon held by Adele Broussard and Katie Bernard for the ribbon cutting ceremony of the new field. Pictured with a framed memento of the new field surrounded by artificial turf are from left, Preston LeJeune, Matt Bernard, Joel Broussard, Lester Bimah and Bishop Sam G. Jacobs.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier www.bayoucatholic.com

Special

God is Real Rwandan Genocide survivor addresses students Story by Janet Marcel Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier Immaculée Ilibagiza, whose miraculous story of survival during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide has inspired and encouraged hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world, recently addressed the student body, faculty, staff and guests at E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux and Vandebilt Catholic High School in Houma. In preparation for her visit, students and faculty at both schools were required to read her New York Times best-selling book Left to Tell and study it in their religion classes. “Her message of forgiveness and hope during the Rwandan Genocide is a most powerful one that we are very pleased to bring to our students,” says Lisa Vegas, director of Advancement and Public Relations at Vandebilt. “In 1994, Rwandan native Immaculée Ilibagiza was 24 years old and home from college to spend Easter with her devout Catholic family when the 186 death of Rwanda’s Hutu president sparked a threemonth slaughter of (more than) one million ethnic Tutsis. She survived by hiding in a Hutu pastor’s tiny bathroom with seven other starving women for 91 cramped, terrifying days. This searing firsthand account of Ilibagiza’s experience cuts two ways: her description of the evil that was perpetrated, including the brutal murders of her family members, is soul-numbingly devastating, yet the story of her unquenchable faith and connection to God throughout the ordeal uplifts and inspires” (Publishers Weekly). During her presentation, Ilibagiza said the main reason she wrote Left to Tell was that she wants everyone to know that God is real. “He is as real as each one of us here today. … The grace of God has touched me and that’s why I am able to touch others.” Some of the lessons she wants those who read her book to learn are 1) we must love God above all else and each other, 2) the only way to make peace in the world is to look in your own heart, and 3) we must forgive other people. During the three terrifying months she spent in that tiny bathroom, Ilibagiza says she relied on her faith in God to get her through. “I just prayed. Before my father sent me away, he gave me his rosary and I kept praying the rosary over and over again. It was when I stopped praying that the devil would come back in my head.” The killers came to the pastor’s house over and over again to search for Tutsis to kill. She says the turning point for her came one day after the killers had searched the house and the pastor told the women they were coming back. Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

Immaculée Ilibagiza

“I was praying so hard and I asked God to show me how to make the killers blind again. A crystal clear image flashed into my mind, an image I was sure was a sign from God. … I begged the pastor to push his wardrobe in front of the bathroom door. The wardrobe was just tall and wide enough to hide the bathroom door … and, finally he agreed to do it.” One thing she says she struggled with for a long time was how to forgive the killers responsible for the brutal deaths of her family members. But she says she truly believes they didn’t want to kill, that they were “brainwashed” by all the propaganda, the government and the rebels. “Everyone has that moment in their life when they remember something they’ve done and think, ‘Why did I do that? That was bad,’” she says. “When you have that moment, no matter what you’ve done, it is a powerful turning point.” Ilibagiza firmly believes that she found her salvation in that tiny, cramped bathroom she shared with seven other starving women during the 91 days of the Rwandan genocide. She says, “I lifted my heart to the Lord and he filled it with his love and forgiveness. Being in that bathroom had become a blessing for which I’d be forever thankful.” Ilibagiza will bring her message of faith and forgiveness to St. Genevieve Church, 815 Barbier Ave. in Thibodaux March 7-8. Her presentation is set to begin at 5:30 p.m. on Friday and will resume the second day at 9 a.m. closing with the 4 p.m. Mass. Tickets are $57 for a single ticket and $97 for two people. For more information about the retreat, contact Renee Helmer at 1 (337) 278-9257.

Church Alive

Blue Mass The annual Blue Mass, honoring community protectors, firefighters, law enforcement and military personnel, was celebrated recently at the Cathedral of St. 188 Francis de Sales in Houma. Bishop Sam G. Jacobs was the main celebrant of the Mass. Community protectors who have died during the past year were remembered in a special way in the Prayers of the Faithful.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

Bayou Catholic â&#x20AC;˘ Houma, LA â&#x20AC;˘ November 2013

Red Mass

The annual Red Mass honoring all judges and lawyers was celebrated recently at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma. Bishop Sam. G. Jacobs was the main celebrant of the Mass. The Red Mass, which is usually celebrated when the Supreme Court opens its new term, has its origins in the 1200s when judges and professors wore red.

Photos by Maria Havis 189

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Scripture Readings

and a listing of Feast days and saints

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1 November 2

Sunday

Commemoration of all the Faithful Departed Wisdom 3:1-9 Romans 5:5-11 John 6:37-40

Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time Wisdom 11:22— 12:2 2 Thessalonians 1:11—2:2 Luke 19:1-10

Memorial of Charles Weekday Borromeo, Romans 12:5-16b bishop Luke 14:15-24 Romans 11:29-36 Luke 14:12-14

Weekday Romans 13:8-10 Luke 14:25-33

Weekday Romans 14:7-12 Luke 15:1-10

Weekday Romans 15:14-21 Luke 16:1-8

Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time 2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14 2 Thessalonians 2:16—3:5 Luke 20:27-38

Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12 1 Corinthians 3:9c11, 16-17 John 2:13-22

Memorial of Martin of Tours, bishop Wisdom 1:1-7 Luke 17:1-6

Memorial of Josaphat, bishop and martyr Wisdom 2:23—3:9 Luke 17:7-10

Memorial of Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin Wisdom 6:1-11 Luke 17:11-19

Weekday Wisdom 7:22b— 8:1 Luke 17:20-25

Weekday Wisdom 13:1-9 Luke 17:26-37

Weekday Wisdom 18:14-16; 19:6-9 Luke 18:1-8

Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Malachi 3:19-20a 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12 Luke 21:5-19

Weekday 1 Maccabees 1:1015, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63 Luke 18:35-43

Weekday 2 Maccabees 6:1831 Luke 19:1-10

Weekday 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31 Luke 19:11-28

Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1 Maccabees 2:1529 Luke 19:41-44

Memorial of Cecilia, virgin and martyr 1 Maccabees 4:3637, 52-59 Luke 19:45-48

Weekday 1 Maccabees 6:113 Luke 20:27-40

Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King 2 Samuel 5:1-3 Colossians 1:12-20 Luke 23:35-43

1 December

Weekday Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20 Luke 12:1-4

Weekday Daniel 2:31-45 Luke 21:5-11

Weekday Weekday Daniel 5:1-6, 13-14, Daniel 6:12-28 16-17, Luke 21:20-28 23-28 Luke 21:12-19

Weekday Daniel 7:2-14 Luke 21:29-33

Feast of Andrew, Apostle Romans 10:9-18 Matthew 4:18-22

First Sunday of Advent Isaiah 2:1-5 Romans 13:11-14 Matthew 24:37-44

Advent Weekday Isaiah 26:1-6 Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Advent Weekday Isaiah 29:17-24 Matthew 9:27-31

Advent Weekday Memorial of Francis Advent Weekday Isaiah 25:6-10a Xavier, priest Isaiah 4:2-6 Matthew 15:29-37 Matthew 8:5-11 Isaiah 11:1-10 Luke 10:21-24

Celebration

Maria Immacolata is

N E D GOL

191

Maria Immacolata Church parish in Houma recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special Mass which was celebrated by Bishop Sam G. Jacobs and concelebrated by Father Clyde Mahler, pastor, and Father Joseph Poovathumkal Varughese, associate pastor. The Knights of Columbus fourth degree provided an honor guard.

Photos by Maria Havis

www.bayoucatholic.com

Young Voices My journey of faith has been a bumpy road with being the only Catholic in my family and just the stress of everyday life. One thing I’ve learned is that prayer changes everything. It took one prayer for me. At one point in my life, the stress was so horrible that I had no other choice but to turn to God wholeheartedly. So I did. I converted to Catholicism; I put my faith into action.

When thinking about faith most people may think about someone who goes to church every Sunday. I like to think about not just the people that show up to Mass every Sunday but the people that shine Christ’s light for all the world to see it, not just on Sundays but every day of the week. My goal in my faith life is to show people the good in everyone, to let God’s words speak through my actions, and to bring people closer to Christ every day.

Katherine Butler, 16 years old Holy Cross Church parish Central Catholic High School

Gabby Small, 17 years old St. Anthony of Padua Church parish Vandebilt Catholic High School

In your journey of faith - how have you learned to put your faith into action daily?

192

Paige Thomas, 16 years old Holy Cross Church parish Central Catholic High School

Attending a Catholic school has really helped me put my faith into action daily. I engage myself in daily prayer, attend Mass, and am a part of the Sisters in Christ group. I also try to show everyone that I come in contact with the light of Christ.

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

Kyle Williams, 16 years old Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church parish, Golden Meadow South Lafourche High School

In my journey of faith, I have learned to keep strong faith though prayer and helping in my church parish. I am a teacher’s assistant in first and third grade at my church parish’s CCD classes every Tuesday. Also, I am an altar server, and if my parish as any event, I’m bound to be helping in some way.

Events

Native American workshop Father John Hatcher, S.J., presented a Native American Spirituality workshop recently at the Lumen Christi Retreat Center in Schriever. The goal of the workshop was to further the understanding of the inculturation of Native American spirituality. Father Hatcher talked about the rituals Native Americans are allowed to use to enhance the Mass, and about culture and traditions.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

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NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, Dec. 3, Quality Hotel, Houma, 10:45-12:45 p.m. Deacon Jim Swiler and Jimmie Danos, speakers. n Christology, Wednesday, Dec. 4, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L., speaker. n Experience the entire Gospel

Deacon John Pippenger, speaker. n TEC 70 retreat, Nov. 15-17, Souby Retreat Building, 5:30 p.m. n Liturgy Committee Workshop, Saturday, Nov. 16, Holy Cross, Morgan City, 8 a.m.-1p.m. n Jesus in the Gospels, Thursday, Nov. 21, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Deacon John Pippenger, speaker.

n NCYC, Nov. 21-24, Indianapolis, IN. n Mass for Black Catholics, Friday, Nov. 22, St. Lucy, Houma, 7 p.m. n Native American Mass, Friday, Nov. 29, St. Charles Borromeo, Pointe-aux-Chenes, 6:30 p.m. Reception will follow at the KC Home.

of St. Mark in two hours of storytelling by priest and actor, Father Joseph Morris. This is not a reading or talk but a dynamic proclamation of an ancient story about God’s healing love. Pastors from the United Kingdom, Canada and the USA have called this performance “mesmerizing,” “powerful” and “a profound experience.” Admission: a

free-will offering. Father Morris memorized and staged the Gospel of Mark when he broke his leg and was confined to bed. It took about four months to commit the 15,000 words to memory. Mark’s Gospel Live will be held at St. Genevieve Church Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. All are invited to attend.

JANUARY 2014 194

n Food for the Journey, Tuesday, Jan. 7, Quality Hotel, Houma, 10:45-12:45 p.m. Father Mike Bergeron, speaker. n The Trinity, Thursday, Jan. 9, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Father Jules Brunet, speaker. n Junior High Faith Experience Adult Night of Praise, Friday, Jan. 10, St. Joseph Co-Cathedral Life Center, 7 p.m. n Marriage Prep, Saturday, Jan. 11, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. n Junior High Faith Experience, Saturday, Jan. 11, 9 a.m., Nicholls State University. n Women of God Gathering, Tuesday, Jan. 14, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall.

Meal served at 6 p.m.; events begin at 6:30 p.m. Free event, all women over 18 years of age are invited. n Baptism and Confirmation, Thursday, Jan. 16, 6-8:15 p.m., diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall. Very Rev. Robert Rogers, speaker. n Martin Luther King Mass, Sunday, Jan. 19, St. Lucy, Houma, 8:15 a.m. n Martin Luther King Mass, Sunday, Jan. 19, St. Luke, Thibodaux, 10:45 a.m. n Christology, Wednesday, Jan. 22, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 pm. Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L., speaker. n Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Thursday,

DIOCESAN

n aNew Experience, Wednesday, Nov. 13, Annunziata, Houma, 7-9 p.m. n Christology, Wednesdays, Nov. 13 and 20, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 pm. Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L., speaker. n The Old Testament, Thursday, Nov. 14, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m.

Jan. 23, diocesan Pastoral Center Conference Hall, 6-8:15 p.m. Very Rev. Robert Rogers, speaker. n TEC 71, Jan. 24-26, Souby Retreat Building, begins 5:30 p.m. Friday. n Liturgy Committee Workshop, Saturday, Jan. 25, St. Joseph, Galliano, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. n Catholic Charities will host a training session for anyone interested in volunteering to prepare income tax returns free of charge for people making less than $50,000 per year. Training will be January 6-8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., in the computer lab on the second floor of Terrebonne Parish’s main library.

www.bayoucatholic@htdiocese.org

EVENTS

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

Food for the Journey set Dec. 3 The diocesan Office of Religious Education sponsors a monthly lunchtime speaker series on the first Tuesday of the month at the Quality Hotel on Hollywood Road in Houma across from Vandebilt Catholic High School. The speakers for Dec. 3 are Deacon Jim Swiler and Jimmie Danos. Deacon Swiler has been diocesan chancellor since July 2010. He has served as a permanent deacon for the past 37 years and spent 32 of those years in administration in the Archdiocese of New Orleans. He has received many national awards for his work with the permanent diaconate. In 1999, Deacon Swiler received the Pro Ecclesia Et Pontifice Award and medal from Pope John Paul II for his outstanding service to the

Native American Mass is Nov. 29 The Annual Native American Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Shelton J. Fabre, Friday, Nov. 29 at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Pointe-aux-Chenes, beginning at 6:30 p.m. This cultural heritage celebration will be followed by a reception at the Knights of Columbus Hall. All are invited to attend.

Jimmie Danos

church. In addition to his many ministries in the church, Deacon Jim and his wife Bonnie have conducted retreats and workshops in over 40 dioceses and archdioceses throughout the country. Danos is the coordinator of the diocesan School of Evangelization and a member of the Man of God Conference core committee. He has served as diocesan director of the Office of Building and Construction for the past 29 years. During this time he has passionately pursued the promotion of evangelization in our diocese. In 1986, he was awarded the diocesan bishop’s medal by (the late) Bishop Warren L. Boudreaux in recognition of his efforts in evangelization. He has given talks at diocesan sponsored events, preached several parish Lenten and Advent missions, given talks to parish RCIA and confirmation groups

Deacon Jim Swiler

and at numerous church parish gatherings, throughout this diocese and beyond. Danos and his wife Mona are parishioners of Christ the Redeemer Church parish in Thibodaux, where he serves as a member of the parish’s pastoral council and coordinator of the evangelization committee. 195 Those who plan to attend the Dec. 3rd event should RSVP with their name, phone number and church parish by Thursday, Nov. 28. To RSVP, email FoodForTheJourney@ htdiocese.org or call (985) 8503178. Doors open at 10:45 a.m. Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m. The program begins at Noon with the speaker’s presentation from 12:10-12:45 p.m. Cost is $13 and includes meal, drink and tip. Only cash or checks will be accepted. All are invited to come “eat and be fed.”

Morgan City 985-384-0809 Houma 985-872-1142 Broussard 337-839-9009 Toll Free 1-800-738-2200 Fax 985-385-4816 Email demo@classicbusiness.com www.bayoucatholic.com

Heavenly Recipes Story and Photo by Lawrence Chatagnier This month’s heavenly recipe comes from Polly Michel, soon to be retired housekeeper and cook for the bishop. She is sharing the recipe for her version of chicken stew. Polly, a native of Trinidad, cooked for Bishops Michael Jarrell and Sam Jacobs. “I have been cooking for the bishops for the past 21 years. During that time I have met many wonderful and friendly people. Both bishops were very kind and understanding to work for,” says Polly. She says that each bishop had his own taste of what foods he liked. “Bishop Jarrell loved white beans and red beans. I still send him red beans and white beans to Lafayette where he is now,” says the cook. She says that Trinidad is somewhat of a melting pot of people from different nationalities. “There are people who are Indian, Spanish, Chinese and American who come to Trinidad for employment opportunities with major oil companies. My grandparents were 196 from Pakistan and India.” Like most women she learned to cook from her mother. “My mother was a very good cook. She would cook spicy Indian dishes. She would use curry in her recipes which would make the food spicy. Maybe that is why my favorite food to cook to this day is curry chicken.” She met her first husband in Trinidad while he was working for an oil company. In 1972 they moved to the United States. “My husband was from Louisiana so we decided to move to where he called home,” she says. Polly hopes to stay active during her retirement. She plans to stay involved in her church parish especially with the Catholic Daughters. “I go to three nursing homes once a month in Thibodaux. I help with the birthday parties for the residents there. There are many people I have known over the years who are residents at the homes now. I enjoy visiting them and volunteering at the homes when needed,” says Polly. She says that she won’t be staying at home all day after her retirement. “I hope to stay busy. You won’t find me at home sleeping

Polly's

n e k ic

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

stew

all day,” she says. As for the red beans and white beans, if someone she knows is headed toward Lafayette she will still be sending some to her friend there.

Polly’s Chicken Stew

one chicken cut up into small pieces three green onions one stalk of celery two bell peppers two onions one head of garlic one can of Rotel tomatoes 1/4 cup oil Two tablespoons sugar one can of chicken broth Boil whole chicken for approximately 15 minutes. Set aside and let cool. Saute onions, celery, green onions, bell peppers and garlic with the Rotel tomatoes. Remove the skin from the chicken. Cut chicken into small pieces. Place the oil and sugar in a heavy pot and cook until the sugar turns brown. After it turns brown add the chicken pieces and brown the chicken. After the chicken is brown add the sauted vegetables and one can of chicken broth. Cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes uncovered. Serve over cooked rice.

197

Special Collection for Diocesan Priests Retirement December 7 and 8, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x153;On the weekend of December 7 and December 8, I pray that everyone will support the collection for the retirement of priests of the diocese.â&#x20AC;? Bishop Shelton J. Fabre www.bayoucatholic.com

Church Alive

‘Dating’ in the Priesthood Guest Columnist

I 198

Very Rev. Joshua Rodrigue, S.T.L.

It seems that in today’s world one of the most difficult things is to coordinate dates and times for gatherings and events, whether they are family, school or church related. Depending upon the importance of the event, months if not years advanced notice is required to ensure the greatest participation and preparation. This is especially true for events centered around the priesthood. Over the past few years, Vocation Awareness Week for the church has moved around on our diocesan calendar. Previously, our diocesan celebration coincided with the national celebration during the beginning of January. Many dioceses found difficulty with it since our students were just returning from Christmas break and our Catholic schools were focusing upon Catholic Schools Week, which was usually the following week. Recently, we celebrated Vocation Awareness Week in the diocese at the end of October, partly because there were not too many church-related celebrations in that month. However, we sacrificed being a part of the national celebration, since that was still in January. At the request of a number of vocation directors, the National Conference of Diocesan Vocation Directors (NCDVD) had been evaluating a more suitable date for the celebration. The idea of connecting it to Good Shepherd Sunday, or the Fourth Sunday of Easter, was proposed. While

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

many of us thought the connection between priestly vocations and shepherding the Lord’s flock was a good one, the timing was awful. There would be no set month, since it depended upon the date of Easter. It could fall on any date between May to June, and often the celebration would be when school would be out, thus relegating it to a weekend in the parish rather than both parish and school and CCD celebrations. Finally, the NCDVD proposed to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations to move National Vocation Awareness Week to the first week in November. The celebration seems to be the perfect time. The focus is upon the universal call to holiness through a life of being called by the Lord to

follow him in a particular vocation. The church celebrates All Saints Day on November 1, which is the ultimate goal for each of us—to be a saint. Celebrating Vocation Awareness Week around All Saints Day reminds each of us of our purpose in life. The Vatican II document Lumen Gentium (The Dogmatic Constitution on the Church) says, “Therefore, all the faithful of Christ are invited to strive for the holiness and perfection of their own proper state” (42). Vocation Awareness Week looks at the means of living out a life of sanctity through the various vocations. While talks do address the natural vocation to married life, there is, however, a specific focus upon the supernatural vocations of priesthood, diaconate and consecrated religious life.

Lumen Gentium also mentions the various vocational states of life and living a life of holiness through them. Bishops are called to model their life after Christ the Good Shepherd. “This perfect duty of pastoral charity is exercised in every form of episcopal care and service, prayer, sacrifice and preaching. By this same sacramental grace, they are given the courage necessary to lay down their lives for their sheep, and the ability of promoting greater holiness in the church by their daily example, having become a pattern for their flock” (LG 41). Priests are co-workers with the bishops and find their strength in prayer and ministerial work. “By their very office of praying and offering sacrifice for their own people and the entire people of God, they should rise to greater holiness. Keeping in mind what they are doing and imitating what they are handling, these priests, in their apostolic labors, rather than being ensnared by perils and hardships, should rather rise to greater holiness through these

perils and hardships. They should ever nourish and strengthen their action from an abundance of contemplation, doing all this for the comfort of the entire Church of God” (LG 41). Deacons, too, find their call to holiness in modeling their lives after Christ’s ministry of charity.

‘

Vocation Awareness Week looks at the means of living out a life of sanctity through the various vocations.

Married couples and parents are called to follow their own road to holiness through faithful love. “They should sustain one another in grace throughout the entire length of their lives. They should imbue their offspring, lovingly welcomed as God’s gift,

with Christian doctrine and the evangelical virtues. In this manner, they offer all men the example of unwearying and generous love; in this way they build up the brotherhood of charity; in so doing, they stand as the witnesses and cooperators in the fruitfulness of Holy Mother Church; by such lives, they are a sign and a participation in that very love, with which Christ loved His Bride and for which He delivered Himself up for her” (LG 41). And for all others, “A like example, but one given in a different way, is that offered by widows and single people, who are able to make great contributions toward holiness and apostolic endeavor in the Church” (LG 41). Thus, the focus upon a universal call to holiness and our vocation in the church begins nationally in November 2014. On a diocesan level, we will begin to celebrate it this year. Please make it a point to pray for strong marriages and an increase in vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated religious life. 199

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Events

Filipino Mass 200

Filipinos from across the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux gathered at St. Hilary of Poitiers Church in Mathews for a Filipino Mass honoring St. Lorenzo Ruiz. Bishop Sam G. Jacobs was the main celebrant of the Mass which was concelebrated by Filipino priests of the diocese.

Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

Bayou Catholic â&#x20AC;˘ Houma, LA â&#x20AC;˘ November 2013

The Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Assemblies of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux recently presented a check to Bishop Sam G. Jacobs in the amount of $4,030 to be used by the diocesan Office of Religious Education. The Fourth Degree Knights have been making a contribution to the Excellence in Religious Education (ERE) fund since 1989. Assembly representatives who presented the check to Bishop Jacobs are seated from left, Kervin Voisin, Morris Guidry, Nathan Arceneaux, Gary LeCompte Sr., Norman Legendre and Allen LaCoste. Back row standing Ferdinand Cortez, Wade Bourg, Bishop Sam G. Jacobs, Donald Naquin, diocesan ERE chairman; Malcolm Blanchard and Ernest Larose.

The Confraternity of Our Lady Star of the Sea and the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States have commissioned the work for a four and a half foot rondel marble relief of Our Lady Star of the Sea in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The relief portrays Mary calming the troubled sea, with the North Star above her head. Father Sinclair K. Oubre, J.C.L., presented medallions to Mike Melancon of Offshore Liftboats, LLC, in Galliano and Mike Callais of Abdon Callais Offshore in Golden Meadow for their monetary contribution to the project. Pictured from left are Lauren M. Cheramie, Mike Melancon, Gloria Callais, Mike Callais and Blanche Callais. Father Oubre is shown blessing the medallions.

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Photos by Lawrence Chatagnier 201

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Entertainment

Seeing Clairely

No matter the world’s uncertainties, life still good

Claire Joller

W 202

Wars in foreign countries are being played out in graphic detail on television news broadcasts and online. Americans watch as the bodies of children lie en masse under cloths, grieving relatives moaning at their sides. No matter how carefully we listen, we can’t make complete sense of the battling factions. As accustomed as we are to wanting the Oppressed to prevail, it becomes more and more murky as to who the Villains really are. Whom should we support? Whom should we condemn? And yet … Wherever the conflict, wherever the natural disaster—and whomever the villain and the oppressed—our countrymen and those of other nations respond with abounding generosity in sending medicines, food, clothing, and other life supports to those who need basic necessities. Beyond that, volunteers go into war-torn areas to give sustenance and to personally show compassion and love to orphaned children and others sorely in need of gentleness and nurturing. Our federal government was shut down as I wrote this. Recriminations flew back and forth between the political parties’ spokespersons, and between Congress and the White House. What was founded to operate efficiently was in noisy disarray. Citizens of all political leanings reacted in distrust and disgust. The ship of state seemed to have lost its rudder. And yet … Traffic lights still flashed red, amber and green. Most of us continued to obey the laws that restrict us but are

Bayou Catholic • Houma, LA • November 2013

LAWRENCE CHATAGNIER/BAYOU CATHOLIC

meant to protect us. Waste was still hauled away from our homes, schools still taught children each day, and churches were still open to help us maintain our personal courses. The safe-haven town where I grew up and still live is not the same anymore. Population growth, its accompanying upheavals, and the world’s unsavory influences to which no place seems immune have, over the decades, spawned violence that was once a shocking rarity. The illegal drug culture crept on its belly into our once-quiet community. Murders claim the local media’s headlines too often. And yet … Neighbors still wave at each other as they drive down our streets. People in doctors’ offices, car washes, and grocery stores still strike up conversations with strangers with no fear of being rebuffed or reviled. Music concerts in the courthouse square draw not only young people but also families and the more mature. Couples still dance the two-step at festivals and shows year-round that celebrate different aspects of life here—our food, our art, our heritage, and even our nowchallenged and always-cherished wetlands. Family members in our part of the world seldom permanently

left home for faraway places until after mid-20th century. Now, the entire world, and certainly the entire United States, are open possibilities, especially for young people just out of college. Families are literally not as close, geographically, as they once were. Gone are the days when many South Louisiana children chose to live in homes not too far from Mama’s, oftentimes even in her back yard, in peaceful coexistence. And yet … More than in other states, Louisiana residents tend to stay closer to their birthplaces. That belies everybody’s personal experience with far-flung brothers and sisters and cousins. But family ties are sturdy here, although they may take newer models. Sunday dinner at Mama’s is still in strong evidence, or Sunday Skypes from Montreal or San Francisco or D.C. Grandparents, who are usually more mobile now, can do pick-ups and ball games and library visits if they so desire. Although grown sons may not have morning coffee with their parents anymore, cell phones cover a multitude of personal absences. No matter the world’s uncertainties, life is still good. (For comments or inquiries about this column, Claire Joller can be contacted by email at clairely1@ comcast.net).

Sports

Overtime

Ed Daniels

Payton and Saints will not be distracted

As Sports Illustrated covers go, this one was one of the best. The headline trumpeted, “The Last Alpha Dog,” referring to Los Angeles Lakers great Kobe Bryant. Bryant may be one of the last Alpha Dogs, but he isn’t the only one. Head coach Sean Payton is performing as one as he tries to drive the Saints back to the Super Bowl. Think about it. The 2013 New Orleans Saints have been the comeback story of the season in the NFL. According to stats provided by Tommy Cooper of the Saints stat crew, the 2013 Saints were the third team since 1971 to finish last in total defense, then start the following season with five consecutive wins. My guess is Sean Payton was ready to retain Steve Spagnuolo as his defensive coordinator. Then, he talked with his players, and decided to make a change. The Saints defense has clearly responded to new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan. But, it is Payton’s voice that resonates most in the locker room. After the bye week, this conversation occurred with Saints pass rushing specialist Junior Gallette. Ed: Junior, since it is midseason, are you starting to scoreboard watch in the NFC? Are you checking out what some of the other good teams are doing? Gallette: You know, we had that conversation this morning. Coach (Sean Payton) told us that he was listening to a radio show driving to work. And, the guy on the radio said we would be the number one or number two seed in the playoffs. Coach called that white noise. He said there’s a 3-3 team out there who is likely to run off 10 wins in a row. Payton had made his point. And, he has made his point with the media. This season, the Saints head coach doesn’t discuss injuries when he meets with the media after practice on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Payton usually finishes at 2 p.m. One hour later, at the exact time the NFL mandates an injury and practice report, the Saints release theirs. That 11:30 a.m. press conference that Payton used to have on live TV? It is history. Every thought, every nugget of information is

controlled. The head coach of the Saints will simply not be distracted. And, neither will his team. There are many weeks to play, and many questions to answer. Can the Saints run the ball well enough to have the run/pass balance that most championship clubs need? Will the defense be able to sustain its early season level of quality play? Games against San Francisco and on the road at Seattle will tell us much. But, that would be looking ahead. The alpha dog on Airline Drive calls that white noise, and that noise is strictly verboten. 203

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