BC Summer Issue

• Team of experts specially trained in lifesaving stroke care

• Timely treatment that improves clinical outcomes

• Leading edge diagnostic imaging and treatment technology

• Advanced rehabilitation services with stroke specialty certification

• Care from education to recovery support

DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATOR

Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Maegan Martin

WRITER AND CONTENT DEVELOPER

Annie Breerwood

DESIGNERS

Alaina Maiorana

Connor Mabile

BUSINESS MANAGER

Bill Barbera

ACCOUNTING SPECIALIST

Rebecca Thibodeaux

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katy Ledet

James Silk

Brayden Dantin

Natalie Guidry

Grace Beyer

Jon Paul Olivier

Ashlyn Dupre

Shawn Lapeyrouse

Jacob Broussard

Daniel Fitzpatrick

Ralph Mitchell Jr.

Nick Smith

Dr. Amber Moseley

Amy Ponson

PHOTOGRAPHER

Maegan Martin

Describe your Encounter of Jesus in the Eucharist

Excerpt from a Homily of St. Jose Maria Escriva, June 17, 1966

Adoration Chapels Around the Diocese

Bishop

EMAIL US: communications@htdiocese.org

VISIT US ONLINE bayoucatholic.org

St. Augustine on Presence and Anxiety

The Sacristans of Carmel Paterfamilias 56

Homily from Pope Francis at the 10 th World Meeting of Families

Ralph Mitchell Jr.

Reclaiming Summer for the Kids featuring The Sandlot and The Goonies

VACATION TOOLKIT

Spiritual Resources for Summer Adventures

Serving the Hungry in the Summer

Peach Cobbler

Bayou Pork Tenderloin

Clergy Appointments Upcoming Events

Nurturing

REDISCOVERING TRUE LEISURE

A SUMMER MESSAGE FROM FR. SIMON PETER ENGURAIT, DIOCESAN ADMINISTRATOR

My dear brothers and sisters, I think we can all agree that life is busy. The number of commitments that demand our time always seems to increase, the pace of life seems to be getting faster and faster, and there doesn’t seem to be any end in sight. When I often ask people how they are doing, it is very common to hear one of two things: either “Good, but busy” or “I’m exhausted!”

Because of this, the summer is often looked at as a time for rest and recreation. Many families go on vacation or take time off work to spend with each other. Summer sports and other programs give families time to spend together. However, perhaps without realizing it, the time that is meant to be focused on rest becomes just as busy, if not busier, than the rest of the year!

When we fid ourselves overly busy, a false sense of leisure can tempt us – a day when I just do absolutely nothing, to do whatever it is that I want to do, whatever is easy or self-serving. How often do people binge television shows for hours seeking rest and re-creation only to fid themselves feeling just as drained at the end of their marathon? How often do we fid ourselves stuck to a screen seeking to be rejuvenated only to fid ourselves fatigued and empty? We were created for fulfillment and rest, not for endless work that runs us into the ground. But we must be wary of the things that tempt us with a false leisure that only leaves us feeling empty.

What fulfills us and gives us true leisure is relationship – spending time with people whom we love and people who love us. This is certainly true on a human level. Some of the most fulfilling time I have is time spent with my family in Uganda or my new family here in the Diocese of HoumaThibodaux, when I can relax and just be myself. I can laugh and share stories as the many cares of the world seem to melt away.

This is also just as true on a divine level. Spending time in prayer with God our Father, Jesus our Brother, and the Holy Spirit our Advocate leaves the heart feeling that deep rest it yearns for. Christ knows our hearts even better than we do, and He knows what we need to fid true rest. Our faith is the place where we fid leisure in the truest sense of the word. Receiving our Lord Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, listening to His Word proclaimed and preached to us, worshipping together as a community of faith – these experiences give us a firmfoundation to stand on amid a world filled with seemingly endless storms.

In fact, I have spoken to many people who have felt incredibly rested after taking some time away for a retreat – time focused solely on being with God. Whether it’s here in the diocese at Lumen Christi, or away at a retreat center such as Manresa, a retreat can be the one thing that we need to enjoy true leisure and rest. I have many good friends who have been dedicated to their annual silent retreat at Manresa for years now, and they wouldn’t miss it for the world because of the impact it has on their lives and on their hearts.

The temptation in the summer months is to “take a break” from our faith, to fade away from our normal routines of prayer and attending Mass. The temptation is to believe that we just need a “break” to regain our energy and momentum, but the “summer fade” always leaves us feeling as empty as a multi-hour television binge. We fid true leisure not in doing whatever we want or whatever seems easy or pleasing in the moment. We fid true leisure in doing the things that are truly good for us, the things that we were created to do and to experience. We fid rest not in fading away but in staying connected to the people we love most, and to the God who loves us infintely.

My encouragement to all of us as we enter into the summertime is to pray about how the Lord wants us to fid true leisure with Him, even trying to take a silent retreat for a day or a weekend, so that at its end, we may fid ourselves rejuvenated to fulfill the mission He has entrusted to each of us.

Mensaje del Administrador Diocesano

Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas, creo que todos estamos de acuerdo en que la vida esta DEMASIADA OCUPADA. El número de compromisos que exigen nuestro tiempo siempre parece aumentar, el ritmo de vida parece ser cada vez más rápido, y no parece haber un fial a la vista. Cuando suelo preguntar a la gente cómo les va, es muy común escuchar una de estas dos cosas: “Bien, pero ocupado” o “¡Estoy agotado!”.

En consecuencia, el verano suele considerarse como una época de descanso y esparcimiento. Muchas familias se van de vacaciones o toman tiempo libre del trabajo para pasarla juntos. Los deportes de verano y otros programas ofrecen a las familias tiempo para estar reunidos. Sin embargo, tal vez sin darnos cuenta, el tiempo destinado al descanso se convierte en un tiempo tan ajetreado, sino es que más, que el resto del año.

Cuando nos encontramos excesivamente ocupados, puede tentarnos una falsa sensación de ocio: un día en el que no hago absolutamente nada, para hacer lo que me apetezca, lo que me resulte fácil o me convenga. ¿Con qué frecuencia la gente se atraganta de programas de televisión durante horas buscando descanso y recreación sólo para encontrarse igual de agotados al fial de su maratón? ¿Con qué frecuencia nos encontramos pegados a una pantalla buscando rejuvenecer sólo para encontrarnos fatigados y vacíos? Fuimos creados para la plenitud y el descanso, no para el trabajo interminable que nos agota. Pero debemos tener cuidado con las cosas que nos tientan a un falso ocio que sólo nos deja una sensación de vacío.

Lo que nos llena y nos proporciona verdadero ocio son las relaciones: pasar tiempo con la gente a la que queremos y con la gente que nos quiere. Esto es cierto a nivel humano. Una de las cosas que más me llenan es el tiempo que paso con mi familia en Uganda o con mi nueva familia aquí en la Diócesis de Houma-Thibodaux, cuando puedo relajarme y ser yo mismo. Puedo reír y compartir historias mientras las muchas preocupaciones del mundo parecen desvanecerse.

Lo mismo ocurre a nivel divino. Pasar tiempo en oración con Dios, nuestro Padre, Jesús, nuestro Hermano, y el Espíritu Santo, nuestro Abogado, hace que el corazón sienta ese profundo descanso que tanto anhela. Cristo conoce nuestros corazones incluso mejor que nosotros, y sabe lo que necesitamos para encontrar el verdadero descanso. Nuestra fe es el lugar donde encontramos el ocio en el sentido más verdadero de la palabra. Recibir a Nuestro Señor Jesucristo en la Eucaristía, escuchar su Palabra proclamada y predicada, adorar juntos como una comunidad de fe - estas experiencias nos dan una base fire para apoyarnos en medio de un mundo lleno de tormentas aparentemente interminables.

De hecho, he hablado con muchas personas que se han sentido increíblemente descansadas después de tomarse un tiempo para un retiro - tiempo enfocado únicamente en estar con Dios. Ya sea aquí en la diócesis, en Lumen Christi, o fuera, en un centro de retiros como Manresa, un retiro puede ser lo que necesitamos para disfrutar del verdadero ocio y descanso. Tengo muchos buenos amigos que llevan años dedicados a su retiro anual de silencio en Manresa, y no se lo perderían por nada del mundo por el impacto que tiene en sus vidas y en sus corazones.

La tentación en los meses de verano es “tomar un descanso” de nuestra fe, desvanecernos de nuestras rutinas normales de oración y asistencia a Misa. La tentación es creer que sólo necesitamos un “descanso” para recuperar nuestra energía e impulso, pero el “desvanecimiento de verano” siempre nos deja tan vacíos como un atracón televisivo de varias horas. Encontramos el verdadero ocio no haciendo lo que nos apetece o lo que nos parece fácil o agradable en el momento. Encontramos el verdadero ocio en hacer las cosas que son verdaderamente buenas para nosotros, las cosas para las que fuimos creados. Encontramos el descanso no en el desvanecernos, sino en permanecer conectados a las personas que más queremos y al Dios que nos ama infintamente.

Mi exhortación para todos nosotros al iniciar en el verano es orar al Señor, para que encontremos un verdadero descanso con Él, incluso intentando hacer un retiro en silencio durante un día o un finde semana, para que al fial de este nos encontremos rejuvenecidos para cumplir la misión que Él nos ha encomendado a cada uno.

Thông

điệp từ Giám quản

Giáo phận

Anh chị em thân mến, tôi nghĩ tất cả chúng ta có thể đều đồng ý rằng cuộc sống thì BẬN RỘN. Số lượng những cam kết đòi hỏi thời gian của chúng ta dường như luôn tăng lên, nhịp sống dường như ngày càng nhanh hơn và dường như không có điểm dừng trước mắt. Khi tôi hỏi mọi người xem họ dạo này thế nào, tôi thường nghe một trong hai câu sau: “Tốt, nhưng bận” hoặc “Tôi kiệt sức rồi!”

Vì vậy, mùa hè thường được coi là thời gian để nghỉ ngơi và giải trí. Nhiều gia đình đi nghỉ hoặc nghỉ làm để dành thời gian cho nhau. Các môn thể thao mùa hè và các chương trình khác giúp gia đình có thời gian bên nhau. Tuy nhiên, có lẽ anh chị em không nhận ra điều đó, khoảng thời gian đáng lẽ phải tập trung vào việc nghỉ ngơi cũng trở nên bận rộn, nếu không muốn nói là bận rộn hơn những khoảng thời gian còn lại trong năm! Khi chúng ta thấy mình quá bận rộn, cảm giác thư giãn giả tạo có thể cám dỗ chúng ta - một ngày khi tôi hoàn toàn không làm gì cả, làm bất cứ điều gì tôi muốn làm, bất cứ điều gì dễ dàng hoặc phục vụ bản thân. Mọi người thường xuyên xem các chương trình truyền hình hàng giờ cố tìm kiếm sự nghỉ ngơi và tái tạo chỉ để thấy mình cảm thấy kiệt sức khi kết thúc cuộc chạy đua của mình không? Đã bao lần chúng ta thấy mình bị mắc kẹt trước một màn hình đang tìm cách trẻ hóa lại để rồi thấy mình mệt mỏi và trống rỗng? Chúng ta được tạo dựng để kiện toàn và nghỉ ngơi, không phải để làm việc không ngừng khiến chúng ta kiệt sức. Nhưng chúng ta phải cảnh giác với những thứ cám dỗ chúng ta bằng sự giải trí giả tạo chỉ khiến chúng ta cảm thấy trống rỗng.

Điều làm chúng ta thỏa mãn và mang lại cho chúng ta sự thư giãn thực sự là mối quan hệ - dành thời gian với những người chúng ta yêu thương và những người yêu thương chúng ta. Điều này chắc chắn đúng ở cấp độ con người. Một trong những khoảng thời gian mãn nguyện nhất mà tôi có là thời gian bên cạnh gia đình ở Uganda hoặc gia đình mới của tôi ở Giáo phận Houma-Thibodaux, khi tôi có thể thư giãn và được là chính bản thân mình. Tôi có thể cười và chia sẻ những câu chuyện khi bao nỗi lo lắng của thế giới dường như tan biến. Điều này cũng đúng ở mức độ thiêng liêng. Dành thời gian cầu nguyện với Thiên Chúa là Cha, Chúa Giêsu là Anh của chúng ta và Chúa Thánh Thần Đấng Phù Trợ của chúng ta để lại cho trái tim cảm giác được nghỉ ngơi sâu sắc mà nó hằng khao khát. Chúa Kitô còn biết rõ lòng chúng ta hơn chúng ta, và Ngài biết chúng ta cần gì để tìm được sự nghỉ ngơi thực sự. Niềm tin của chúng ta là nơi chúng ta tìm thấy sự thư thái theo nghĩa chân thật nhất của từ này. Đón nhận

Chúa Giêsu Kitô trong Bí tích Thánh Thể, lắng nghe Lời Ngài được công bố và rao giảng cho chúng ta, cùng nhau thờ phượng như một cộng đồng đức tin - những trải nghiệm này cho chúng ta một nền tảng vững chắc để đứng vững giữa một thế giới tràn ngập những cơn bão dường như vô tận.

Trên thực tế, tôi đã nói chuyện với nhiều người cảm thấy được nghỉ ngơi thực sự sau khi dành thời gian tĩnh tâm - thời gian chỉ tập trung vào việc ở bên Chúa. Cho dù ở đây tại Lumen Christi trong giáo phận, hay ở một trung tâm tĩnh tâm như Manresa, một buổi tĩnh tâm có thể là điều mà chúng ta cần để tận hưởng sự thư giãn và nghỉ ngơi thực sự. Tôi có nhiều người bạn tốt đã thực hiện các khóa tĩnh tâm thinh lặng hàng năm của họ tại Manresa trong nhiều năm qua và họ sẽ không bỏ lỡ nó với thế giới vì tác động của nó đối với cuộc sống và trái tim của họ.

Cám dỗ trong những tháng hè là “làm cuộc nghỉ giải lao” từ niềm tin của chúng ta, rời xa thói quen cầu nguyện và tham dự Thánh lễ như thường lệ. Cám dỗ là tin rằng tôi chỉ cần “nghỉ xả hơi” để lấy lại năng lượng và động lực, nhưng “mùa hè gần hết” luôn khiến chúng ta cảm thấy trống rỗng như xem tivi kéo dài nhiều giờ đồng hồ. Chúng ta tìm thấy sự thư giãn thực sự không phải ở việc làm bất cứ điều gì chúng ta muốn hay bất cứ điều gì có vẻ dễ dàng hoặc hài lòng vào lúc đó. Chúng ta tìm thấy sự thư giãn thực sự khi làm những việc thực sự tốt cho mình, những việc mà chúng ta được tạo ra để làm và trải nghiệm. Chúng ta tìm thấy sự nghỉ ngơi không phải trong sự lụi tàn mà trong sự kết nối với những người chúng ta yêu thương nhất và với Thiên Chúa, Đấng yêu thương chúng ta vô ngần.

Lời khích lệ của tôi dành cho tất cả chúng ta khi bước vào mùa hè là hãy cầu nguyện theo cách Chúa muốn chúng ta tìm thấy sự thư giãn thực sự với Ngài, thậm chí cố gắng tĩnh tâm trong một ngày hoặc một ngày cuối tuần, để cuối cùng chúng ta có thể tìm thấy chúng ta được trẻ hóa để hoàn thành sứ mạng Ngài đã trao phó cho mỗi người chúng ta.

BREAD OF LIFE DISCOURSE BIBLE STUDY

Setting the scene: At this point in the Gospel of John, Jesus has just fed 5,000 men with five barley loaves and two fih and was seen walking on water. The next day, the crowd sought out Jesus again, but this time they had questions for Him.

Read John 6:22-42

Why are the people looking for Jesus?

Answer: Read verse 26 . He fed thousands of people the day before by performing a miracle.

How does the beginning of this conversation go between Jesus and the crowd?

Answer: Jesus encourages the crowd to seek not the food that perishes, but that of eternal life. The people want to know what they must do to attain it. Jesus tells them plainly, “This is the work of God, that you believe in the one He sent.”

What do the people ask for in verse 30 ?

Answer: They ask Him for a sign, so that they may see and believe in Him. They reference the Old Testament saying, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.”

What is ironic about the people asking for a sign from Jesus?

Answer: They came to Jesus on this day seeking food because the day before He fed the 5,000 with five loaves and two fih. And yet, they need more to believe.

In what ways might we struggle to believe even if we have seen the signs or read the Church’s teaching? Have you ever found yourself asking God for a sign again and again, when you have seen Him work countless times in your own life?

Reflection and discussion.

After they hear Jesus give more explanation of this bread of heaven in verse 32-33 , how do the people respond?

Answer: “Sir, give us this bread always” They ask Him for it directly and with a certain degree of intensity.

What is significant about what Jesus says in response to their request? What phrase do the people get stuck on?

Answer: Read verse 35-42 . This is the fist time in the Gospel of John that Jesus claims to be the Bread of Life. His language is shocking, but still a bit vague. The people are particularly confused by this claim. After all, they know Him…they know His father and mother…how can He say He came down from heaven?

Where are the places in our own walk with Christ that we get stuck? What are the things we still have questions about? How can we fid the answers?

Reflection and discussion. The teachings of the Catholic Church are based in truth and charity, but sometimes they are counter-cultural and heavily debated in society. If you have questions about particular Church teachings, look up what the Catechism of the Catholic Church has to say about the topic, ask your parish priest, or seek out a book written by a reputable Catholic source.

Read John 6:43-59

How does Jesus respond to the Jews confusion and questions about His claim?

Answer: He seemingly doubles down and reiterates His statement repeatedly.

This is one of the most disputed teachings in the Catholic Church. Many argue that Jesus is speaking symbolically when he says “I am the Bread of Life” or “eat my flesh and drink my blood” instead of literally. Based on this passage, is Jesus speaking symbolically?

Answer: There are moments in the Gospels where Jesus does use symbolism to explain things to those following Him. “I am the vine, you are the branches” John 15:5 “I am the gate” John 10:9 But in this discourse, Jesus does not explain the symbolism like He does in other places in scripture. Instead, He continues to repeat Himself and His language gets more precise.

In the original Greek Jesus begins this dialogue using the word phago which means “to eat” but can be understood figuratively. When He is challenged about this teaching, He switches to the word trogo which literally means “to chew or gnaw.” This word is never used symbolically. When Jesus says, “eat my flesh,” He uses the word trogo.

How many times does Jesus say to the Jews that He is the bread that came down from heaven? How many times does He say that it is necessary to eat His flesh and drink His blood?

Answer: In scripture, Jesus says that He is the bread that came down from heaven 12 times. He says that it is necessary to eat His flesh and drink His blood four times.

The scripture says that after this, many of His disciples left and no longer accompanied Him. If there was ever a time for clarification, now would be the time. How does Jesus react? What does this tell us about the Lord’s commitment to this message?

Answer: Read verse 67. Based on this action and question, we can conclude that Jesus is not speaking symbolically, but is very serious. He knows that what He’s saying is hard to accept, but He does not change His message. He even goes so far as to let those who do not accept the teaching walk away.

How does Simon Peter respond to the Lord’s question? Do you think that Simon Peter and the other apostles understood and believed fully the words spoken by the Lord?

Answer: Read verses 68-69. Simon Peter never actually says that they understand all that Jesus is saying and that they believe it to be true. But what he does say, is that they have come to know and believe in Jesus and are convinced that He is who He says He is. And if that is true, then this must be too.

We see great faith from Simon Peter in this moment, where does that faith come from? How can the apostles trust in something and in someone they still do not understand?

Reflection and discussion.

There is transformative power that comes from an encounter with Jesus Christ. A transformative power that can even increase our faith in the things that we cannot fully understand. Take a moment to reflect on your own encounter(s) with Jesus. How has that encounter transformed you?

Reflection and discussion.

Read John 6:60-69

How do many of His disciples respond to what He is saying?

Answer: They question Him saying, “This saying is hard; who can accept it?”

This would have been a good time for Jesus to explain Himself in the case that what He was saying was meant as a symbol. But how does Jesus respond to this question from His disciples?

Answer: Read verses 61-65. He alludes to His own ascension into heaven, knowing that this is not the last time those who follow Him will doubt. He even calls it out, “But there are some of you who do not believe.” He does not explain Himself or clarify, instead He acknowledges their disbelief.

“The Eucharist is ‘the source and summit of the Christian life.’ The other sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostolate, are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it. For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself, our Pasch.” (CCC 1324 ) If this is true and if the words spoken by Jesus in John 6 are true, then we must make it a priority to frequent the sacraments, to adore the Blessed Sacrament, to go to Mass as often as we can, and especially on Sunday. For He tells us, “unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you.” What actions can you take to grow in your relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist this Summer?

I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE.

KATY LEDET

is a lifelong resident of Bourg and parishioner of St. Ann. She and her husband Rusty have three children: Lincoln (14), Riley Ann (12), and Jack (10). Katy is a teacher at South Terrebonne High School and is currently enrolled in graduate studies at Nicholls State University to pursue Educational Leadership.

At 22 years old I sat in a pew for daily Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas in my last semester of college. I had been married for less than a year and was anxiously pregnant with our fist baby. Between classes for a degree in business and working full time, I would sneak away to church seeking the kind of peace that could only be found in the presence of the Eucharist. There were kind faces of daily Mass regulars that smirked at my rounding belly and the comfort of like-minded friends that were just trying to get through the university experience with eyes set on lofty dreams and bright futures.

With just weeks until graduation, I fumbled through my prayers and often found myself overcome with emotion as the future I had so painstakingly detailed for myself was taking a much different shape. I was excited about the path my life had taken – married younger than I imagined to a man that guarded my heart with fervor and would walk through fie to give me the life he felt I deserved, expecting a surprise blessing that filled my days with his tiny kicks as we planned a simple nursery and researched car seats, and a four-year degree brushing my figertips. But as thrilled as I was about all these beautiful changes, I sat in that pew terrified of all my big dreams.

Last week I found myself sitting in that pew again with tears brimming my tired eyes. Here I was, 15 years later, in Thibodaux on a Wednesday night because that sweet baby boy found his way onto a baseball team that would practice in Peltier Park for two hours. I wandered over to St. Thomas with intentions to knock out a few grad school assignments amid another crazy week. My brain raced in a hundred directions – making checklists for my classroom duties as a high school teacher, mentally assigning household chores for each family member so we could slide into the weekend with at least clean jerseys, and worrying that I had not made enough time to give to my husband and children.

As I set up my laptop and clicked my pen to take notes at a table in St. Thomas, I realized I had shown up just as daily Mass was starting. With no real excuses, I slid through the back doors of church and cozied into an empty pew. Letting the peace of the Eucharist fill me, I let myself settle into the moment. I cleared my mind, opened my heart, and breathed in the calm that this same church had given all those years ago when I was in such a different place in my life.

I smiled a bit remembering how frightened I had felt about becoming a mother. I would have never imagined that in less than five years we would have a home filled with the chaos of three little ones. The business degree I was so close to utilizing would sit essentially unused as I followed the unexpected call to education, a career that would become such a huge part of my heart and identity. I would have never imagined how unbelievably hard it would be at times – the feelings of being unworthy, the worry that I could truly do it all as a mother, wife, and teacher. I could not have seen the struggles that would come with losing loved ones and conquering anxiety.

LIFE WITH

CHRIST

Father John David Matherne used the homily that day to highlight not the widely recognized John 3:16 , but instead on the grace of John 3:17 , “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” Tears stung my eyes as I thought about how many times I forget to just rest in the Eucharist in those times. I often feel that though I wear many hats, I don’t necessarily wear them well. How often do we spiral in our own thoughts of self-doubt when God so glaringly fills our lives with reminders of His love? How often did I personally attempt to balance all the hats perfectly and expect to continue walking a straight path?

I have grown significantly since I gazed upon that altar contemplating the wide world I was so close to embarking on 15 years ago. I knew then I didn’t have it figured out, but I would not have fathomed I would face the same doubts and concerns years later as a mother of three, established teacher, and college student again. But I was reminded sitting in that pew surrounded by college students that seemed unbelievably young to me in that moment, that God’s plan was never to send us off on our own to “figure it out” but instead to sit with us in the uncomfortable moments, hold us in our anxiousness, and joyously embrace us in life’s celebrations and victories.

We live incredibly busy lives and often fill our time with hundreds of things that do nothing to fill our souls. Gifting myself with the quiet time of daily Mass on that Wednesday evening instead of focusing on the papers to write and tasks to check off was a grace that God intended for all of us. We are worth the quiet moment, worth the gift of time, and worth the nourishment in the Eucharist. God does not condemn us when we fall victim to the rat race of life, but He is waiting and hoping for us to see the blessing that is taking time for the Eucharist.

“

WE ARE WORTH THE QUIET MOMENT, WORTH THE GIFT OF TIME, AND WORTH THE NOURISHMENT IN THE EUCHARIST.

HOW TO PRAY A HOLY HOUR PRACTICAL PRAYER

JAMES SILK is a parishioner of St. Bernadette and is a seminarian for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. He resides at the St. Joseph the Worker House of Formation in Thibodaux where he receives formation in the Discipleship phase of discernment.

The thought of giving guidance on “How to Make a Holy Hour” fills me with mild trepidation. Not for lack of experience in making a Holy Hour but because I am experienced enough to know that prayer is a very personal matter. And being personal it suggests a wide variety of means and methods. How one person prays may be a hindrance to another person and what is a hindrance to one becomes the missing ingredient to another. Moreover, how one prays will grow, change, and mature as one journeys towards union with God. Yet, amongst all the variety and change something remains the same. Therefore, what I propose to do is give you five unchanging rules that can guide you in making your own Holy Hour.

FIRST RULE: GOD INVITES US TO PRAYER

A common misconception about prayer is that it is primarily something we initiate to draw close to God. The idea that prayer is our initiative can become a barrier to making a Holy Hour because we think that praying successfully depends on our effort and a whole hour is a lot to make successful. Relying on our efforts leads us to abandon prayer when we do not feel like it or to exhaustion in trying to make prayer “work.” However, Sacred Scripture reveals that all good things, even the desire and ability to pray, come from God (Js 1:17). Similarly, Jesus says “You did not choose me, but I chose you” (John 15:16) . By considering prayer as primarily God’s initiative, we move from the posture of producing to the posture of receiving.

This posture of receiving is the fist key to making a Holy Hour well. Like the rays of the sun that cause the rose bush to grow and blossom flowers, our Holy Hour becomes the space we give God to communicate and create His new life in us.

SECOND RULE: PRAYER IS NOT WASTED TIME.

Recently, a pre-med student told me that he was having difficulty making a Holy Hour because every time he sat down to pray his mind was flooded with projects, papers, and deadlines. These projects, papers, and deadlines are no small matter for they will impact the course of his career. To do them well is his duty. The student’s persistent temptation was to think it irresponsible to spend an entire hour in prayer when so many good things demand his attention. The opposite is closer to the truth. Pope Benedict XVI says, “Prayer is not time wasted, it does not take away time from our activities, even apostolic activities, but exactly the opposite is true: only if we are able to have a faithful, constant and trusting life of prayer will God Himself give us the ability and strength to live happily and serenely, to surmount difficulties and to witness courageously to Him.”

Not only does prayer give us the capacity to live well and do our duties courageously, but prayer

also gives them ultimate meaning. Therefore, rather than thinking of a Holy Hour as wasted time, think of your time as wasted without a Holy Hour.

THIRD RULE: ATTENTIVE SILENCE

Silence is necessary for the prayer to blossom. Yet, silence suggests absence not presence, sterility not vitality, death not life—and our natural inclination is to avoid silence like a lifeless desert. However, in the Catholic tradition, the desert is the place of encounter. Isaiah says that the desert shall blossom and in it shall be a “highway...called the Holy Way” (Is 35:8 ). Silence is the place where the sound of the world diminishes so the voice of God can be heard. St. Faustina says that “in order to hear the voice of God, one has to have silence in one’s soul and to keep silence; not a gloomy silence, but an interior silence; that is to say, recollection in God.”

To achieve this silence, it is neither sufficient nor possible to simply quell all exterior and interior noise. Rather, one must achieve the sacred silence by turning one’s attention and referring all interior distractions towards God’s gaze of love. The Catholic spiritual tradition speaks of several ways that help man turn his attention to God’s presence. These means include reading Scriptures and other holy books, the Rosary and similar prayers, sacred art, journaling, a simple conversation, or a repeated word or short phrase that focuses one’s attention. The means one chooses will be determined by one’s taste and needs. Whatever the means, the goal is to be attentive to God in faith and love.

A good Holy Hour will always involve the struggle of silent and loving attention and one should be ready to spend a good portion of their prayer in this effort. It is in the struggle to be attentive to God’s love for us that gives birth to a silence that is full of life and vitality. In the silence of loving attention, the noise of the world fades and the presence of God impregnates our reality. Even five minutes of loving silence is worth 55 minutes of struggle.

FOURTH RULE: ATTENTIVE SILENCE LEADS TO LOVING THOUGHTS

Not only can silence be a source of anxiety but the praying person can feel anxiety about hearing God speak. We might muse, “How can I know God is speaking? I feel like I am just talking to myself.” The Catholic philosopher Peter Kreeft says, “How do we listen to His voice? . . . What will happen then? What will we hear? Let God take care of that. Seek only Him, do not use Him as a means to seek any other end... I cannot tell you what He will give you, except for one thing: He will give you Himself.” The essential point of prayer is not information but relationship. However, God also wishes to deepen our relationship and we can fully trust that He will seek to deepen this relationship by speaking to us. The key to hearing God’s voice is to trust. If we persevere in being attentive to God’s love, we can expect that His love will form in us thoughts, words, feelings, impressions, and imaginings that draw us closer to Him.

How can we know which thoughts and impressions are from God and which come from us? When the soul begins to quiet itself in God’s presence it should take note of what rises to the top. As you take note of what is arising in the soul, begin to meditate, reflect, and dialogue with God about it. A good portion of your Holy Hour should be given to the process of attentiveness and reflection on what arises in the soul. This process will bring clarity to what God wants to say to you.

FIFTH RULE: LOVING THOUGHTS LEAD TO HOLY ACTION

Prayer is an act of faith, hope, and love directed to God. When we lift our heart to God in prayer, God communicates His life and love to us. However, love remains immature if it

does not seek to grow. The book of Hebrews says, “the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12 ). When God communicates His word to us in prayer it both affirmand convicts us. His loving affirtion grounds us in the security of sonship but His conviction moves and guides us to grow in virtue. For He does not just tell His disciples He has chosen them (Jn 15:19 ) but also invites them to “deny themself, pick up their cross, and follow [Him]” (Mt 16:24 ). Thus, the end of our Holy Hour should end with several moments of responding to God’s love and the prudent resolution to do God’s Will.

CONCLUSION: HOLY ACTION LEADS TO TRANSFORMATION INTO CHRIST

In prayer we allow God to speak His word into our life discorded by sin. By His word He transforms our disorder into His order. This is what God is implying through the prophet Isaiah when God says the “word be that goes forth from my mouth... shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and prosper in the thing for which I sent it” (Is 55:11 ). Additionally, by being faithful to the practice of a Holy Hour we can fulfill St. Paul’s admonition to “Put off your old nature [and] put on the new nature, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness” (Eph 4:22-24 ). The palpable effect of this righteous transformation “will be peace” (Is 32:17 ), for, as St. Thomas says, “peace is tranquility of order.”

“

THE ESSENTIAL POINT OF PRAYER IS NOT INFORMATION BUT RELATIONSHIP. ”

DESCRIBE YOUR ENCOUNTER OF JESUS IN THE EUCHARIST.

GRACE BEYER, VANDEBILT CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Through my school’s ministry, my Church parish, and my family, the Eucharist has become the central part of my faith life. The Eucharist has opened doors for me to deepen my relationship with God. It is impossible to say in words just how great an act of love it is for Him to remain physically with us and for us to have the gift of receiving Him at every Mass.

I have always known of the Lord, but experiencing Him in the Eucharist has allowed me to truly and fully know Him and be known by Him. His love placed in a tangible host reveals His longing to be in a full relationship with each of us. It is evidence of His desire to always be with us in a way that we can see, feel, and understand. His True Presence in the Eucharist is the guidance in my life. In adoration, His presence shines through the host and touches the heart. His love is beyond our earthly understanding, and the connection between us and His heavenly love is the Eucharist.

Now that I have experienced Him through the Eucharist, I wish I could properly put into words and better explain how His mercy and love lives in the Eucharist. It is something that I pray every human experiences.

PLACED IN A TANGIBLE HOST REVEALS HIS LONGING TO BE IN A FULL RELATIONSHIP WITH EACH OF US. ” “

HIS

LOVE

My life was decent before developing a deeper understanding of Christ’s Eucharistic presence, but after my encounter, life became more vibrant and beautiful than I had previously imagined it could be. I am reminded of Jesus’ words in John 10:10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” We can be tempted to think that the Christian life is a burden, when, in reality, it is the great joy for which our hearts long. Christ came not to enslave us, but to set us free, make us more truly who we are, and to give us abundant life. In the Eucharist we fid this promise of abundant life made manifest out of total love for us and from Christ’s desire to dwell among the people He redeemed and loves.

My encounter with Christ’s Eucharistic presence brought with it a newer and deeper understanding of freedom. Freedom does not flow from simply expanding our possible choices, but from becoming who we were created to be. The Lord makes us free by encountering us in the Eucharist and by freeing us from our bondage to sin. Christ desires to encounter us where we are and in the way we need. Your encounter doesn’t have to seem extravagant. God can choose to “knock you off of your horse” as He did with St. Paul, or, He can choose to encounter you in the silence of your heart with the calming whisper of His voice as He did for Elijah. Both are beautiful and both come from the Lord. Nor does it need to happen all at once. For St. Augustine, it took many years. He wrote, “You called, you shouted, and you broke through my deafness. You flashed, you shone, and you dispelled my blindness.” It was through a constant calling that Jesus found St. Augustine. Do not be afraid if you have not yet encountered Jesus in the Eucharist. He loves you and is waiting to encounter you, even if you feel like He hasn’t just yet.

My understanding of God’s love has become greater than I previously thought possible. In the Eucharist, we can see the clearest indication of God’s infinte love for His children—a love not content with remaining in heaven, but one that came down in search of His lost sheep. Not only did this Love become incarnate for 33 years, but, in His Church, this Love is continually made visible. The Eucharist prolongs the Incarnation by allowing the Word to dwell among us even now. There is no deeper or more beautiful image of God’s desire to save us than in the Eucharist; a Love always made accessible to us and in all places. Hidden in this small host is our Salvation, our Joy, our Life, and the fulfillment of all desire.

” “

HIDDEN IN THIS SMALL HOST IS OUR SALVATION, OUR JOY, OUR LIFE, AND THE FULFILLMENT OF ALL DESIRE.

BRAYDEN DANTIN, ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

JON PAUL OLIVIER, CATHEDRAL

OF ST. FRANCIS DE SALES

Several years ago, during Palm Sunday Mass I had an extraordinary experience. When the Eucharistic Minister held up the host and said, “The Body of Christ,” I was overcome with tears. I was so filled with joy that I couldn’t do anything but cry. I went back to my pew, the tears dried up, and I didn’t give it much thought.

A year later, on Easter Sunday, the priest held up the newly consecrated host and said, “Behold the Lamb of God.” Just like the year before, I was overcome with happiness. I couldn’t take my eyes off the host in the priest’s hands and tears were uncontrollably flowing down my cheeks. I knew at that moment I was physically in His presence.

After Mass, I kept thinking that once might have been a coincidence, but twice proved to me it was something else, something more. I did some research and discovered the phenomenon of the gift of tears, a manifestation of the Holy Spirit. Reading about other peoples’ experiences reassured me that I wasn’t alone and I wasn’t crazy– something real was happening. I came to realize that God himself was reaching out and touching my heart, giving me His Spirit.

I CAME TO REALIZE THAT GOD HIMSELF WAS REACHING OUT AND TOUCHING MY HEART, GIVING ME HIS SPIRIT. ” “

Over the years the gift recurred on significant feast days, reassuring me of God’s presence. The most dramatic occurrence was at a retreat on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. At the urging of one of the speakers, I walked outside to fid a certain cross in the cemetery. I struggled to work my way around the closely spaced graves to reach the cross. After several minutes, a strong feeling came over me that I needed to go to the Adoration chapel. When I turned to go there, a wide avenue opened before me. It was probably the road the hearses used to bring in caskets for burial. I don’t know why, I didn’t see it before, but now a wide path was in front of me leading to the Adoration chapel. I opened the door and found the chapel overflowing with people. All eyes were on the Eucharist. It was breathtaking. I found a spot at the end of a pew and knelt. When I looked up at the Blessed Sacrament, I felt the Holy Spirit come over me. It was a physical thing, like dew settling gently on grass at night. I knew the Spirit was with me, and the tears came more than ever before. I was a mess, but I was so filled with happiness. Strangely, nobody seemed to notice I was crying. All eyes were fied in adoration on the Blessed Sacrament. I knew without a doubt I was in the presence of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit was right there with me.

Since then, I still receive this gift from time to time. It has given me a new appreciation for the Mass. Going to Mass isn’t only an obligation, it is a celebration, usually bringing a smile to my face as the consecration begins.

As I plan a trip to attend the National Eucharistic Congress this summer with my small group, I look back on how my relationship with Jesus has grown over the years. I was the textbook defintion of the “cradle Catholic.” I attended religion class weekly and Mass on most Sundays. I loved Jesus, I obeyed God, was a little skeptical of the Holy Spirit, but the relationship was usually out of obligation.

Several years ago, the hunger to learn more about my faith called me to dive in and step out of my comfort zone. I started attending any session the diocese offered and volunteered to help with youth ministry at my church. Every yes was so difficult, and I could always fid an excuse, but I quickly learned that the other side of every yes was amazing!

Every step in His direction made me want more. Every unpacking of scripture overwhelmed me, yet increased my confidence in the Father’s love for me. There is no denying that every adoration physically lightens my life’s burdens as I’m there on my knees turning everything over to Him. Allowing myself permission to use all the senses God created me with to worship Him has fueled my desire to receive the Eucharist. At every Mass Jesus personally invites me to the table of the Last Supper, and I can’t help but to behold Him and make Him my only focus. His amazing love breaks through all boundaries as He enters my timeline, my life, my body right there in Mass. And that’s where it hits me–Jesus makes His way to me, gives me His strength, His guidance, and walks with me on this journey back to the Father.

JESUS MAKES HIS WAY TO ME, GIVES ME HIS STRENGTH, HIS GUIDANCE, AND WALKS WITH ME ON THIS JOURNEY BACK TO THE FATHER.

HEART OF THE CHURCH

EXCERPT FROM A HOMILY OF ST. JOSEMARIA ESCRIVA, JUNE 17,1966

FINDING PEACE IN THE HEART OF CHRIST

God our Father has seen fitto grant us, in the heart of His Son, “infinte treasures of love,” mercy and affection. If we want to fid evidence that God loves us — that He not only listens to our prayers but anticipates them — we need only follow the same line of thought as St. Paul: “He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, will He not also give us all things in Him?”

Grace renews a man from within and converts a sinner and rebel into a good and faithful servant. The source of all grace is God’s love for us, and He has revealed this not just in words but also in deeds. It was divine love which led the second Person of the Holy Trinity, the Word, the Son of God the Father, to take on our flesh, our human condition, everything except sin. And the Word, the Word of God, is the Word from which Love proceeds.

Love is revealed to us in the Incarnation, the redemptive journey which Jesus Christ made on our earth, culminating in the supreme sacrifice of the Cross. And on the Cross it showed itself through a new sign: “One of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water.” This water and blood of Jesus speak to us of a self-sacrifice brought to the last extreme: “It is finihed” — everything is achieved, for the sake of love.

Today when we consider once more the central mysteries of our faith, we are surprised to see how very human gestures are used to express the deepest truths: the love of God the Father who gives up his Son, and the Son’s love which calmly leads him to Calvary. God does not approach us in power and authority. No, He “takes the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of man.” Jesus is never distant or aloof. Although sometimes in His preaching He seems very sad, because He is hurt by the evil men do. However, if we watch Him closely, we will note immediately that His anger comes from love. It is a further invitation for us to leave infidelity and sin behind. “Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, says the Lord God, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?” These words explain Christ’s whole life. They allow us to understand why He has come to us with a heart made of flesh, a heart like ours. This is a convincing proof of His love and a constant witness to the mystery of divine charity.

GRACE

RENEWS A

COURTESY OF: OPUS DEI

MAN FROM WITHIN AND CONVERTS A SINNER AND REBEL INTO A GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT. ” “

I must confide to you something which makes me very sorry and spurs me on to action: the thought of all those people who do not yet know Christ, who do not even suspect the great good fortune which awaits us in heaven. They live like blind men looking for a joy whose real name they don’t know, lost on roads which take them away from true happiness. How well one understands what Paul the Apostle must have felt that night in Troas when he had a vision in a dream: “A man of Macedonia was standing beseeching him and saying Come over to Macedonia and help us. And when he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on to Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the Gospel to them.”

Don’t you also feel that God is calling us? Through the things which happen around us He is urging us to proclaim the Good News of the coming of Jesus. Yet sometimes we Christians turn our calling into something very paltry. We become superficial and waste our time in dissension and jealousy. Or, worse still, some people are artificially scandalized by the way others choose to live certain aspects of the faith. Instead of doing all they can to help others, they set out to destroy and criticize. It is true that sometimes you fid serious shortcomings in Christians’ lives. But the important thing is not ourselves and our shortcomings. The only thing that matters is Jesus. It is Christ we must talk about, not ourselves.

These reflections have been provoked by suggestions that there is a crisis in devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. But there is no crisis. True devotion to the Sacred Heart has always been and is still truly alive, full of human and supernatural meaning. It has led and still leads to conversion, self-giving, fulfillment of God’s will and a loving understanding of the mysteries of the redemption.

However, we must distinguish this genuine devotion from displays of useless sentimentality, a veneer of piety devoid of doctrine. No less than you, I dislike sugary statues, figures of the Sacred Heart which are incapable of inspiring any trace of devotion in people who have the common sense and supernatural outlook of a Christian. But it is bad logic to turn these particular abuses — which are disappearing anyway — into some sort of doctrinal, theological problem.

If a crisis does exist, it is a crisis in men’s hearts. Men are short-sighted, selfih and narrow-minded. They fail to appreciate the great depth of Christ’s love for us. Ever since the holy Church instituted today’s feast, the liturgy has offered us the nourishment of true piety by including among the readings a text from St Paul. In it he proposes to us a whole program of contemplative life — knowledge and love, prayer and life — beginning with this devotion to the heart of Jesus. God himself invites us in the Apostle’s words to follow this way: “May Christ dwell in your hearts through faith; may you, being rooted and grounded in love, have power to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”

The fullness of God is revealed and given to us in Christ, in the love of Christ, in Christ’s heart. For it is the heart of Him in whom “the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily.” Were one to lose sight of this great plan of God — the overflow of love in the world through the incarnation, the redemption and Pentecost — he could not understand the refiement with which our Lord deals with us.

ADORATION

CHAPELS ACROSS THE DIOCESE

Call the church parishes listed for specific times and after hour access.

CHRIST THE REDEEMER, THIBODAUX

DAYTIME ACCESS

CATHEDRAL OF ST. FRANCIS DE SALES, HOUMA HOLY SAVIOR, LOCKPORT

24 HOURS DAYTIME ACCESS

THOMAS AQUINAS,

ST. HILARY OF POITIERS, RACELAND

OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY, LAROSE

OUR LADY OF PROMPT SUCCOR, CHAUVIN

ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA, BAYOU BLACK

OUR LADY OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY, HOUMA

GROWING IN VIRTUE virtue

ASHLYN DUPRE lives and works in Houma as a second grade teacher at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral school where she is also a devoted parishioner.

FAITH

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) states that God, “...From the fullness of His love, addresses [individuals] as His friends, and moves among [us], in order to invite and receive [us] into His own company.”

“The [appropriate] response to this invitation is faith” (CCC 142 ). Faith is a beautiful gift which we are so freely given by Our Lord.

There is the giver, Our Lord, and the partaker, His children. We need not do a thing to earn this gift given from the fullness of His love. Our only response is to partake, to willfully receive His invitation and live in His love. The key here is choosing to partake in this inexhaustible gift and allowing it to help us grow in deeper intimacy and obedience to Our God. Through this virtue, “...man freely commits his entire self to God”(CCC 1814). It is the “...virtue by which we believe in God and believe all that He has said and revealed to us…”(1814).

If accepted and practiced, faith is a virtue that can unlock and allow so many other virtues to emerge in our hearts and within our lives. However, this virtue must bear a habitual practice, “for just as a body without a spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead” (Js 2:26). This is where our choosing to partake of this gift calls us to action. The intensity and intentionality that we choose to devote to cultivating this virtue will ultimately nourish our communion with God or produce a very stagnant relationship.

As a partaker and child of God, I choose to exercise this virtue in my everyday life. It is a gift freely given to me with the ultimate purpose of inviting and receiving my God into my heart. You bet I am going to attempt to practice this virtue to the very best of my ability for I know that “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You” (St. Augustine).

THE GIVER + THE PARTAKER

Some of the ways that I choose to habitually exercise faith are through prayer, the sacraments, and silence. My prayer life has evolved over the years as I have experienced di fferent seasons in my life, but it has always remained an endless conversation with the One who knows and loves me. I have to intentionally choose each day to invite the Lord into my conversations both with myself and others, my decisions, and my actions. When I choose otherwise, I often fi nd myself and my surroundings to be restless and meaningless.

Utilization of the sacraments is another key component to strengthening the virtue of faith in my life. Showing up to Mass is one thing but intentionally being present in Mass and remaining in awe of the miracle that we get to be a part of each time we participate in the Holy Sacrifie of the Mass is what has proven fruitful for me. Another blessing that I have come to fi nd great appreciation for in my life is silence. In moments of silence I truly sense a personal invitation into my Lord’s own company and where I choose to receive His gift of faith. I fi nd myself in a place to more readily “know and do God’s will” (CCC 1814), which is the fruit of practicing the virtue of faith.

Although I desire to choose to accept and partake in the gift of faith so freely, I by no means do it perfectly. I frequently have to remind myself that this exercise of faith will not always look and feel just so. I am human and imperfect and there have been seasons in my life in which my faith has been shaken. There have been days, even months that I have doubted and felt as if I could not fi nd it within me to partake in this gift from my Giver, but I undeniably believe that if you have chosen freely to partake of this gift, it will never flee you. It is ingrained in every fiber of your being and within the depths of your heart. If you have chosen to receive this great gift from the Giver, when you fi nd yourself in those moments, you know there is no denying your faith. Indeed, you will eventually fi nd yourself turning to the Giver with a heart willing and ready to receive your gift anew.

“Although you have not seen Him you love Him; even though you do not see Him now yet believe in Him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, as you attain the goal of [your] faith, the salvation of your souls (1 Peter 1:8-9).

Catechism of the Catholic Church (2nd ed.). (1997). https://www.scborromeo2.org/catechism-of-the-catholicchurch.

IF ACCEPTED AND PRACTICED, FAITH IS A VIRTUE THAT CAN UNLOCK AND ALLOW SO MANY OTHER VIRTUES TO EMERGE IN OUR HEARTS AND WITHIN OUR LIVES. ” “

FUELED BY THE SPIRIT

A REFLECTION ON THE LEGACY OF BISHOP SAM JACOBS’

SHAWN LAPEYROUSE

is a parishioner of St. Bernadette Parish who worked for the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux for many years under various roles including Youth Minister and Confirmation Coordinator at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales, Assistant Conference Director and Conference Director for the Diocese. Shawn began Lift 3:16 Ministries from 2017 until 2021 and currently serves as Vice President of Agent Operations for a travel agency, Magical Moments Vacations.

When I was asked to write a tribute to Bishop Sam Jacobs, I felt unworthy but knew in my heart that I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to share with others the story of what a true blessing it is to know Bishop Sam. I’ve had the distinct honor of knowing Bishop Sam for almost 20 years now. The joy for life and the love for Christ he has is conveyed in his joyful response each time you ask him, “How are you doing Bishop?” His response is always an ecstatic “Fan-tastic!” We can all learn from this special man to seek the simple joys of life; a habit that exudes joy to all around him, and especially to all who are blessed to know him!

I fist came to know of Bishop Sam through the Steubenville Catholic Youth Conferences. His involvement in these youth conferences has allowed literally hundreds of thousands to come to know Christ in a new and profound way. At the pinnacle of the conference attendances in 2019 , more than 85,000 youth spent a weekend of their summer coming to know Christ in a new way, all because of the vision of Bishop Sam and his drive to bring these special events across the entirety of the U.S., including two in Louisiana. His love of bringing others to Christ does not end with his passion for the youth. He also participated in a variety of roles at hundreds of events over his 65 years as a priest –Steubenville Adult Conferences, the Charismatic Renewal events, Diocesan Man of God and Woman of God gatherings and conferences, and Married Couples conferences. He has traveled across the nation and throughout the world, spreading the Word of God to all who would listen! He answered God’s call to preach His Word by serving as National Service Committee (NSC) Chairman for several years, being a huge part of the Legatus Organization and as a spiritual advisor for the Franciscan University of Steubenville Conferences.

Not only does Bishop Sam spread the Word of God through events where attendees can experience an encounter with Christ; he is a true Shepherd of God’s people and knows his flock too. You can’t help but feel like a spiritual daughter (or son) to Bishop Sam. He is always there to listen to anyone who needs to talk, he offers his valuable time to those in need, is there for you in difficult times and in times of celebration. Bishop Sam has presided over a countless number of baptisms, including my own two sons, and has celebrated numerous weddings. He conducts these special events because he loves serving the people of The Church. He’ll meet you for coffee on a rainy day, he’ll have dinner with you and your family on a spring evening, and he’ll pray with you any time, any day.

The leadership Bishop Sam brought to our diocese in the form of love and patience, awakened the bayou region to the love of God the Father. People came to know Jesus in a new way because of how Bishop Sam led his faithful of this diocese. Even my grandfather, a staunch nonbeliever, came to an awakening when he met Bishop Sam at my great-grandmother’s funeral, which Bishop Sam presided over. Thanking God, and Bishop Sam, every day for this monumental change of heart, as I’m now able to talk about Jesus with my grandfather whom I love dearly and hope to see in Heaven one day!

To meet Bishop Sam is to feel the love of God, to feel included, to feel welcome, and to feel like you “matter.” Bishop Sam will leave this world a better place for having been in it, for having made others feel loved, for ensuring people learn about God, and for pursuing the hearts of his people so they come to know the love of Jesus. It’s in this welcome feeling that he’ll also leave behind a challenge to those who have come to love Christ. As he said in one of his presentations at a Power and Purpose Conference at Franciscan University, “If not you, who? If not now, then when? If not in your personal world, then where? If not in the power of the Holy Spirit, then in what power and for what purpose?”

If you’ve never known Bishop Sam or wish you had an opportunity to get to know him, you can follow his site Spirit Aflame where he shares his faith with those wishing to learn more! www.spiritaflame.org

IF NOT YOU, WHO? IF NOT NOW, THEN WHEN? IF NOT IN YOUR PERSONAL WORLD, THEN WHERE? IF NOT IN THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, THEN IN WHAT POWER AND FOR WHAT PURPOSE?

BLESSED PIER GIORGIO FRASSATI SAINT STORIES

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in Turin, Italy in 1901 into a devout Catholic family. His parents instilled strong Christian values in him from an early age, laying the foundation for his deep faith and commitment to serving others.

Despite his aristocratic background, Frassati had a simple and down-to-earth demeanor. He had a great love for the outdoors and was an avid hiker and mountaineer. His love for sports, particularly mountain climbing, not only brought him joy but also provided him with opportunities to connect with others and share his faith. His most famous quote is “Verso L’Alto” which means “To the heights.” which was Frassati’s personal motto emphasizing his passion striving to reach the summit of eternal life with Christ.

On the occasion of Frassati’s beatification St. Pope John Paul II described him as a man “entirely immersed in the mystery of God and totally dedicated to the constant service of his neighbor.”

He was deeply passionate about social justice and dedicated much of his life to serving the poor and marginalized. Frassati joined the St. Vincent de Paul society at 17 years old and in addition, volunteered in numerous other charitable organizations, aiding those in need and advocating for the rights of the oppressed.

Frassati had a deep prayer life and was devoted to attending Mass and receiving the sacraments regularly. His commitment to the sacramental life of the Church highlights the importance of nurturing our relationship with God. He found strength and inspiration in his relationship with God, which fueled his desire to live a life of virtue and holiness.

He said that prayer “is the most efficient means to obtain from God the graces which we need, and especially the strength of persevering in these times, in which the hatred of the sons of the devil is breaking out violently against the sheep who are faithful to the fold.”

His joyful and infectious personality attracted many to the Catholic faith. He lived his faith with enthusiasm and authenticity, inspiring others through his words and actions. Frassati’s courage in living out his faith shows us that living as a disciple of Christ should bring us true joy and fulfillment, inspiring others to seek the same.

Frassati faced oppression from his family due to his activism and involvement in Catholic youth organizations. Despite this, he remained steadfast in his convictions and continued to live out his faith fearlessly.

He said, “We Catholics must strive to have our whole life guided by Christian moral law. Then there is the apostolate of charity by going among those who suffer and comforting them, among the unfortunate and saying a comforting word to them, because the Catholic religion is based on charity which is nothing other than the most perfect Love.”

He remained humble throughout a life of accomplishment, always prioritizing serving others over seeking recognition for himself. Frassati died at 24 years old, after contracting polio (most likely) while serving the poor. He saw Christ in the poor and marginalized and sought to uplift them through his compassionate actions. In an address to young people said, “We must sacrifice everything for everything: our ambitions, indeed our entire selves, for the cause of the Faith.”

Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, the prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, announced in April of this year that Bl. Frassati’s canonization is “on the horizon” and can be expected in the Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year.

This summer let us heed the example of Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati which reminds us that true greatness lies in our ability to love and serve those in need. Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us that we may all live in a way that helps us reach the heights of heaven.

VERSO L’ALTO to the heights

JUNE DAILY PRAYER

FOR PRIESTS, DEACONS, RELIGIOUS, AND SEMINARIANS

Rev. Davis Ahimbisibwe

Very Rev. Jay Baker, MCL, JCL Rev. Paul Birdsall Rev. Rusty Bruce

Toto Buenaflor Deacon James Brunet, Jr. Rev. Duc Bui Rev. Stephen Castille

Alex Lazarra

Joey Lirette Rev. P.J. Madden

Rev. John David Matherne Rev. Andre MelanconV.F.

Rev. Thankachan Nambusseril

Rev. JeanMarie Nsambu

Rev. Joseph Than van Liem CRM

Samuel Okeyre

Joseph Pilola Sister Diane Poynot, C.S.J. Rev. Matthew Prosperie Rev. Sabino (Benie) Rebosura

Joshua Rodrigue

Rev. Ronilo (Roni) Villamor

2

SCRIPTURE READINGS JUNE

JULY DAILY PRAYER

Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait Rev. Patrick Riviere

Robert Rogers

James Rome

Mitchel Semar Deacon Larry Callais Rev. Sebastian Stephen

Talavera

Thein

Nguyen

James Silk Rev. Mike Tran, V.F.

Brunet, retired Rev. Domingo Cruz, retired

2:6-10, 13-16

8:18-22

Fourteenth

2:16, 17c-18, 21-22

9:18-26

6:1-6a

6:7-13

LIVING LITURGICALLY LIVING LITURGICALLY

NURTURING FAITH AMID BUSY FAMILY LIFE

JACOB BROUSSARD

is a Sales Manager at DarkVision Technologies. He lives in Thibodaux with his wife Michele and their four children Elizabeth, Joseph, Daniel, and Catherine. The Broussards are parishioners at St. Bridget.

“Watch your actions, they become your habits. Watch your habits, they become your character.” This quote by Vince Lombardi concisely expresses the current state of our family life as we navigate a growing family and a busy schedule.

My wife, Michele, and I have four children: Elizabeth (9), Joseph (7), Daniel (2 ), and Catherine (5 months). I travel regularly for work, and my wife homeschools our two older children in addition to tutoring other students in middle and high school math. My children are active in competitive dancing and sports, and we try to squeeze in time with family and friends wherever possible. With all these activities and obligations, so many of our days are spent on autopilot just to get to and through everything!

Referring again to Lombardi’s words, our lives at present are more defied by our habits than by routines. We are pulled in too many directions to establish many routines, and our schedules often change week by week. The one exception to this rule, however, is Sunday. Mass is a non-negotiable no matter where we are. We built the habit as a family of waking up on Sunday morning and attending Mass, and this habit extends to vacations, dance competitions, and beyond.

We are not the only family in this stage of life, and we are certainly not the only family attending Masses at unfamiliar churches across the country during the summer months. I knew many families as I was growing up who attended churches near vacation spots that they frequented every summer. We were even able to ask for recommendations for churches near Disney World a couple of years ago!

“Watch your actions, they become your habits.” Attending Mass is not a routine for us, it is a habit. Our primary purpose at this stage in our lives is to instill in our children a fervent love for Jesus and a commitment to the one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church. We made the decision to prioritize attending Mass above all else, and acted on that decision each Sunday

until the action became a habit. While they are certainly not jumping out of bed at 6:30 a.m. ready to receive the Eucharist and absolutely do their fair share of fidgeting during Mass, our children have grown to appreciate the significance of their Sunday obligation.

“… Watch your habits, they become your character.” The habit of attending Mass every week quickly blossomed into more as my wife was asked to cantor at our church, our children became active in the children’s liturgy program and trained as altar servers, and we began participating in activities outside of our regular Mass time. As a family we grew closer to our priest and to many of the other parishioners. Over time, our church became our home, and our family’s commitment to a strong faith life grew substantially.

Our faith life grew beyond our Sunday obligation and became an important part of our daily lives in unexpected ways. I have found myself in many fruitful conversations with colleagues about faith at dinners and industry events. My wife and I both participate in Bible studies with our friends, and those discussions often make their way into our dinner table conversations. Our children have listened to and participated in most of these conversations and have asked some pretty excellent questions!

Habits are hard to break, both good and bad. When good habits grow into relationships or traditions, we are willing to put aside many things to maintain them. Consider some of your most treasured family traditions and the lengths to which you would go to preserve them for future generations. We feel this way about our family’s faith life. It has become so much more than a habit, and we have decided that we are willing to make any number of sacrifices to preserve it. This is becoming more challenging as our children get older and more involved in activities, but it has been proven time and time again that it is well worth the effort. Summer is the perfect time to begin, reestablish, or strengthen these habits with your family.

WE MADE THE DECISION TO PRIORITIZE ATTENDING MASS ABOVE ALL ELSE, AND ACTED ON THAT DECISION EACH SUNDAY UNTIL THE ACTION BECAME A HABIT. ” “

SPACE, TIME, AND HOW NOT TO WORRY SPACE, TIME, AND HOW NOT TO WORRY

ST. AUGUSTINE ON PRESENCE AND ANXIETY

DANIEL FITZPATRICK

is the author of two novels, a poetry collection, and a translation of Dante’s Divine Comedy. He is the editor of Joie de Vivre: A Journal of Art, Culture, and Letters for South Louisiana, a member of the Creative Assembly at the New Orleans Museum of Art, and a teacher at Jesuit High School in New Orleans, where he lives with his wife and four children. He is a member of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in New Orleans.

Of the legions of Saints with whom God has blessed the Church, pouring the pure light of His grace through the prism of humanity so that His glory can shine forth in every shade, few have touched the Western imagination so profoundly as St. Augustine of Hippo. Like all the great saints, we see in him something of what we are and something of what we could be, were we to let God’s grace be fully operative in us. He was, of course, a genius, one who could dispose of Aristotle’s Categories like a light snack, one who left us millions of words of writing spanning nearly every conceivable area of interest. He was a bishop who fiercely combated heresy and just as fiercely fought poverty and slavery. And he was also a sinner, a man who by age seventeen had fathered a child by his concubine, a man who early in his life despised the crudity of scripture, a man who would pray to become a saint, but not yet.

Perhaps it is in such turns of phrase that Augustine has most embedded himself in our imagination. In the pages of the Confessions, we hear the saint’s poetic musings on beauty, ever ancient, ever new, on the love that calls us to the things of this world, on the restlessness our hearts endure until they rest in God. Augustine gives us our very selves, expressing again and again just what it is that makes being human so strange, so heartbreaking, so lovely. It is through such passages that practically all Christians—even those who haven’t read him—know Augustine.

The stages of the spiritual journey described in the Confessions, from the Roman baths to the pear trees to the prayers of St. Monica, draw us on in their rich, capacious narrative. Yet there are many passages in the text, especially in the later books, dealing with time and memory, which can be quite difficult. And though they seem more abstruse, these texts can offer us extraordinary guidance in how to live faithfully.

I am thinking, for instance, of Augustine’s writing on time. Not content to pass over one of the most difficult questions in the history of philosophy, one which troubled the ancient world in the form of Zeno’s paradoxes and which continues to astonish modern physicists and philosophers alike, Augustine proposes that time is nothing other than a “distension” of the mind. That is, time draws the mind apart in a kind of triple negativity. We are caught between the past that is no more, the future that is not yet, and the non-extended now that is already over as we apprehend it.

What’s more, this experience of time is precisely the locus of so much of the human anxiety that leads to sin. Drawn into the past by memories of our failings, drawn into the future by the thought of what suffering awaits us, we fid it immensely difficult to be in the present. By being present, though, Augustine does not simply mean that vapid spirit of living in the now that leads to a kind of spiritual and moral inanity. Rather, he means being present to the God who is eternally present to us. How, he asks, can we hope to be present to God forever in Heaven when we can hardly rest in His presence for a single moment over the course of a day? How can we hope for Heaven when we can’t rest for fifeen minutes in God’s presence in the Rosary, or for an hour in the Mass?

The anxiety induced by this experience of time very often coaxes us into sin. Ashamed of what we did last week, we speak harshly to the friend with us now. Afraid of an upcoming trial, we seek solace in a bottle. Faced with the stress that comes from being embodied creatures possessed of faculties of memory and anticipation, we seek distraction in all the catalog of sin.

Augustine’s reflection on time is especially germane today. Not only have we now seemingly endless means to distract ourselves, to take us away from the concern of performing God’s will by attending to Him moment by moment. We also, through mass and social media, have become spread out in space as well as time. At the tap of a screen I can see what is afoot in New York or San Francisco or Gaza or Ukraine. I can doomscroll my way around the globe in a matter of minutes. And all the while I train myself not to look to what is present, not to seek God’s kingdom as He wills it to unfold through my becoming a saint in the circumstances of life which must in some sense be divine providence. How easily I forget—anxious as I am about the destruction over there, the corruption over here—to attend to the corruption in my own heart and to order the world within my remit for God’s glory.

Spread out in space and time, we fid our anxiety pitched to higher and higher heights as we become more and more dependent on, more devoted to, the technologies which make of us a mere source of profit, n object of advertisement, a slave.

What, then, are we to do? How are we to quit this anxiety? By allowing our hearts to rest in God, by turning our attention to Him, we recognize that His attention is constantly upon us, and in His gaze we are made whole. If we would quit worrying, we have only to withdraw to a quiet place, as Christ did, spending the dark silence of night in God’s presence so that the business of the day may be conducted in God’s light. Through daily prayers, through the Liturgy of the Hours, through the Rosary, above all through the Mass, we learn to gather up time and offer it to God as Christ did on the Cross. In this way, we learn what it is to live in the light of eternity, praying without ceasing, so that we may begin to experience that presence for which we are made.

BY ALLOWING OUR HEARTS TO REST IN GOD, BY TURNING OUR ATTENTION TO HIM, WE RECOGNIZE THAT HIS ATTENTION IS CONSTANTLY UPON US, AND IN HIS GAZE WE ARE MADE WHOLE. ”

-SOPHIA INSTITUTE

Here below our sweet office Is to prepare for the altar The bread and wine of the Sacrifice Which brings to earth– Heaven!

The greatest honors of this world Cannot compare To the peace, profound and heavenly, Which Jesus lets us savor.

Heaven, O supreme mystery! Hides itself under humble bread; For Heaven is Jesus Himself, Coming to us each morning.

We bring a holy envy For the work of our hands, For the little white host Which is to veil our divine Lamb.

There are no queens on earth Who are happier than we. Our office is a prayer Which unites us to our Spouse.

But His love has chosen us, He is our Spouse, our Friend. We are also hosts, Which Jesus wants to change into Himself.

Sublime mission of the Priest, You became our mission here below. Transformed by the Divine Master, It is He who guides our steps.

We must help the apostles By our prayers, our love. Their battlefields are ours. For them we fight each day.

The hidden God of the tabernacle Who also hides in our hearts, O what a miracle! At our voice Deigns to pardon sinners!

Our happiness and our glory Is to work for Jesus. His beautiful Heaven is the ciborium We want to fill with souls!

THE SACRISTANS OF CARMEL

ST. THERESE OF

PATERFAMILIAS

PHYLLIS MCGINLEY

Of all the saints who have won their character –Holy man, hero, hermit, martyr, Mystic, missioner, sage, or wit –Saint Thomas More is my favorite.

For he loved these bounties with might and main: God and his house and his little wife, Jane, And four fair children his heart throve on, Margaret, Elizabeth, Cecily, and John.

That More was a good man everybody knows. He sang good verses and he wrote good prose, Enjoyed a good caper and likes a good meal And made a good Master of the Privy Seal. A friend to Erasmus, Lily’s friend, He lived a good life and he had a good end And left good counsel for them to con, Margaret, Elizabeth, Cecily, and John.

Some saints are alien, hard to love, Wild as an eagle, strange as a dove, Too near to heaven for the mind to scan.

But Thomas More was a family man. A husband, a courtier, a doer, and a hoper (Admired of his son-in-law, Mr. Roper), Who punned in Latin like a Cambridge don, With Margaret, Elizabeth, Cecily, and John.

FAMILY LOVE: A

VOCATION AND A PATH TO HOLINESS

HOMILY FROM POPE FRANCIS AT THE TENTH WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES | JUNE 25, 2022

Saint Paul, in today’s second reading, spoke to us about freedom. Freedom is one of the most cherished ideals and goals of the people of our time. Everyone wants to be free, free of conditioning and limitations, free of every kind of “prison”, cultural, social or economic. Yet, how many people lack the greatest freedom of all, which is interior freedom! The greatest freedom is interior freedom. The Apostle reminds us Christians that interior freedom is above all a gift, when he says: “For freedom Christ has set us free!” (Gal 5:1). Freedom is something we receive. All of us are born with many forms of interior and exterior conditioning, and especially with a tendency to selfihness, to making ourselves the centre of everything and being concerned only with our own interests. This is the slavery from which Christ has set us free. Lest there be any mistake, Saint Paul tells us that the freedom given to us by God is not the false and empty freedom of the world, which in reality is “an opportunity for self-indulgence” (Gal 5:13 ). No, the freedom that Christ gained at the price of his own blood is completely directed to love, so that – as the Apostle tells us again today – “through love you may become slaves of one another” (ibid.).

All of you married couples, in building your family, made, with the help of Christ’s grace, a courageous decision: not to use freedom for yourselves, but to love the persons that God has put at your side. Instead of living like little islands, you became “slaves of one another”. That is how freedom is exercised in the family. There are no “planets” or “satellites”, each travelling on its own orbit. The family is the place of encounter, of sharing, of going forth from ourselves in order to welcome others and stand beside them. The family is the fist place where we learn to love. We must never forget that the family is the fist place where we learn to love.

Brothers and sisters, even as we reaffirthis with profound conviction, we also know full well that it is not always the case, for any number of reasons and a variety of situations. And so, in praising the beauty of the family, we also feel compelled, today more than ever, to defend the family. Let us not allow the family to be poisoned by the toxins of selfihness, individualism, today’s culture of indifference and culture of waste, and as a result lose its very DNA, which is the spirit of acceptance and service. The mark of the family is acceptance and the spirit of service within the family.

The relationship between the prophets Elijah and Elisha, as presented in the fist reading, reminds us of the relationship between generations, the “passing on of witness” from parents to children. In today’s world,

that relationship is not an easy one, and frequently it is a cause for concern. Parents fear that children will not be able to fid their way amid the complexity and confusion of our societies, where everything seems chaotic and precarious, and in the end lose their way. This fear makes some parents anxious and others overprotective. At times, it even ends up thwarting the desire to bring new lives into the world.

We do well to reflect on the relationship between Elijah and Elisha. Elijah, at a moment of crisis and fear for the future, receives from God the command to anoint Elisha as his successor. God makes Elijah realize that the world does not end with him, and commands him to pass on his mission to another. That is the meaning of the gesture described in the text: Elijah throws his mantle over the shoulders of Elisha, and from that moment the disciple takes the place of the master, in order to carry on his prophetic ministry in Israel. God thus shows that he has confidence in the young Elisha. The elderly Elijah passes the position, the prophetic vocation to Elisha. He trusts the young person, he trusts in the future. In this gesture, there is hope, and with hope, he passes the baton.

How important it is for parents to reflect on God’s way of acting! God loves young people, but that does not mean that he preserves them from all risk, from every challenge and from all suffering. God is not anxious and overprotective. Think about it: God is not anxious and overprotective; on the contrary, he trusts young people and he calls each of them to scale the heights of life and of mission. We think of the child Samuel, the adolescent David or the young Jeremiah; above all, we think of that young sixteen or seventeen year old girl who conceived Jesus, the Virgin Mary. He trusts a young girl. Dear parents, the word of God shows us the way: not to shield our children from the slightest hardship and suffering, but to try to communicate to them a passion for life, to arouse in them the desire to discover their vocation and embrace the great mission that God has in mind for them. It was precisely that discovery which made Elisha courageous and determined; it made him become an adult. The decision to leave his parents behind and to sacrifice the oxen is a sign that Elisha realized that it was now “up to him”, that it was time to accept God’s call and to carry on the work of his master. This he would do courageously until the very end of his life. Dear parents, if you help your children to discover and to accept their vocation, you will see that they too will be “gripped” by this mission; and they will fid the strength they need to confront and overcome the difficulties of life.

I would like to add that, for educators, the best way to help others to follow their vocation is to embrace our own vocation with faithful love. That is what the disciples saw Jesus do. Today’s Gospel shows us an emblematic moment when Jesus “set his face to go to Jerusalem” (Lk 9:51), knowing well that there he would be condemned and put to death. On his way to Jerusalem, Jesus met with rejection from the inhabitants of Samaria, which aroused the indignant reaction of James and John, but he accepted that rejection, because it was part of his vocation. He met rejection from the very start, fist in Nazareth – here we think of that day in the synagogue of Nazareth (cf. Mt 13: 53-58 ) – now in Samaria, and he was about to be rejected in Jerusalem. Jesus accepted it all, for he came to take upon himself our sins. In a similar way, nothing can be more encouraging for children than to see their parents experiencing marriage and family life as a mission, demonstrating fidelity and patience despite difficulties, moments of sadness and times of trial. What Jesus encountered in Samaria takes place in every Christian vocation, including that of the family. We all know that there are moments when we have to take upon ourselves the resistance, opposition, rejection and misunderstanding born of human hearts and, with the grace of Christ, transform these into acceptance of others and gratuitous love.

Immediately after that episode, which in some way shows us Jesus’ own “vocation”, the Gospel presents three other callings on the way to Jerusalem, represented by three aspiring disciples of Jesus. The fist is told not to seek a fied home, a secure situation, in following Jesus, for the master “has nowhere to place his head” (Lk 9:58). To follow Jesus means to set out on a never-ending “trip” with him through the events of life. How true this is for you married couples! By accepting the call to marriage and family, you too have left the “nest” and set out on a trip, without knowing beforehand where exactly it would lead, and what new situations, unexpected events and surprises, some painful, would eventually lie in store for you. That is what it means to journey with the Lord. It is a lively, unpredictable and marvellous voyage of discovery. Let us remember that every disciple of Jesus fids his or her repose in doing God’s will each day, wherever it may lead.

A second disciple is told not to “go back to bury his dead” (vv. 59-60 ). This has nothing to do with disobeying the fourth commandment, which remains ever valid and is a commandment that makes us holy. Rather, it is a summons to obey, above all, the fist commandment: to love God above all things. The same thing happens with the third disciple, who is called to follow Christ resolutely and with an undivided heart, without “looking back”, not even to say farewell to the members of his family (cf. vv. 61-62 ).

Dear families, you too have been asked not to have other priorities, not to “look back”, to miss your former life, your former freedom, with its deceptive illusions. Life becomes “fossilized” when it is not open to the newness of God's call and pines for the past. Missing the past and not being open to the newness that God sends always “fossilizes” us; it hardens us and does not make us more human. When Jesus calls, also in the case of marriage and family life, he asks us to keep looking ahead, and he always precedes us on the way. He always precedes us in love and service. And those who follow him will not be disappointed!

Dear brothers and sisters, providentially, the readings of today’s liturgy speak of vocation, which is the theme of this Tenth World Meeting of Families: “Family Love: a Vocation and a Path to Holiness”. Strengthened by those words of life, I encourage you to take up with renewed conviction the journey of family love, sharing with all the members of your families the joy of this calling. It is not an easy journey: there will be dark moments, moments of difficulty in which we will think that it is all over. May the love you share with one another be always open, directed outwards, capable of “touching” the weak and wounded, the frail in body and the frail in spirit, and all whom you meet along the way. For love, including family love, is purified and strengthened whenever it is shared with others.

“

LOVE, INCLUDING FAMILY LOVE, IS PURIFIED

AND STRENGTHENED

WHENEVER IT

IS

SHARED WITH OTHERS. FOR

”

EVERYDAY

RALPH D. MITCHELL JR.

has been married to Denise Landry Mitchell for 38 years. Their two adult children graduated from Vandebilt Catholic. They now enjoy five grandchildren, two of which attend St. Bernadette Elementary. Ralph retired from the Louisiana State Police since 2010 and BP America in 2018, and since has been a private consultant. Ralph is a parishioner of St. Bernadette and is the President of the Pastoral Council and a member of the St. Bernadette Elementary Consultative Board.

HOLINESS

HOW DO YOU PURSUE HOLINESS IN YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE?

I try to make a conscious effort to be mindful of my thoughts and to be aware of negative or judgmental thinking. I regularly study scripture and make it a point to read and study the daily readings for Mass. I pray fist thing in the morning and last thing at night. I use several free and subscription-based services to listen to podcasts, daily reflections, and other videos to broaden my understanding of the Gospel and the Catechism. Formed is a very valuable free service offered by the Church. Finally, I seek out opportunities to show kindness, compassion, and forgiveness in my daily interactions.

HOW DO YOU MODEL FAITHFULNESS FOR YOUR FAMILY?

I think it is important to act, live, and demonstrate your faith. I serve as an acolyte at St. Bernadette’s weekly Masses and have, with the guidance of Fr. Andre Melancon, started my own personal ministry in which I serve as an acolyte for Funeral Masses. I am an officer in both the Knights of Columbus Council 7355 and Assembly 2322 . Serving as President of the Pastoral Council at St. Bernadette allows me to help with decisions for the long-term benefitof the church. With the support of Fr. Andre, I am the developer and coordinator of a one-day Men’s Conference at St. Bernadette which started last year. I facilitate and I am the coordinator of Adult Faith Formation at St. Bernadette and facilitate a Thursday night group called “Breaking Open the Word.” Finally, I will be a retreat team member for the ACTS Men’s Retreat in July 2024

HOW DOES YOUR FAITH INFLUENCE YOUR MARRIAGE?

Early in my marriage, I witnessed my wife’s and her family’s faith as a Catholic. I was basically a “None.” We made the decision to go through RCIA and join the Catholic Church. My wife was a big supporter. I felt it important to not send mixed signals to my children. It is important for me to love my wife as Christ loves the Church, and I must set her needs above my own. Going through the RCIA process early in my marriage the then sending our children to Catholic school allowed us to build a life together and create a strong foundation in our marriage. The Bible emphasizes communication and forgiveness. Open communication allows us to address issues honestly and sets the stage for forgiveness as God forgives us.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE BIGGEST LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED IN YOUR MARRIAGE?

We view our marriage as a team, growing in faith and love together. The ability to compromise, understand and support, and recognize the need of your spouse are important. Marriage is not a 50 – 50 proposition. Both spouses must give 100 % all the time. Go back and read your wedding vows from time to time. “In sickness as in health, in good times as in bad, for better or for worse, and for richer or for poorer” all have real and lifelong implications. If you don’t mean it, don’t say it. Follow the advice in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”

HOW HAVE YOU PERSEVERED THROUGH DIFFICULTIES AND WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO OTHERS EXPERIENCING THIS STRUGGLE?

Hard times are prime moments for honest prayer. Express your doubts, fears, and frustrations to God. Plead for strength and guidance. Immerse yourself in scripture. Find passages that resonate with your struggles and offer comfort and hope. The Bible is full of stories of people overcoming adversity through faith. Regularly attending Mass, receiving the Eucharist, and going to Confession can provide spiritual nourishment and renewal to provide space to address the current issue. Don’t isolate yourself. Connect with your church community, a prayer group, or a trusted friend. Sharing your struggles and receiving support from others who understand your faith can be a powerful source of strength.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FAMILIES ABOUT PASSING ON THEIR FAITH TO THEIR CHILDREN?

These are challenging times. If you model your faith and stick by your own values, your children will understand, believe, and live our Catholic faith. Remember, faith is a journey, not a destination. There will be times of doubt and difficulty. The key is to keep practicing your faith, even when it’s hard. Through these practices and God’s grace, you can fid strength and emerge from challenging times with an even stronger faith.

“

HARD TIMES ARE PRIME MOMENTS FOR HONEST PRAYER.

MORE THAN ENTERTAINED

RECLAIMING SUMMERS FOR THE KIDS FEATURING THE SANDLOT AND THE GOONIES

AMBER MOSELEY

is a wife, mother and Senior Varsity Catholic Manager for FOCUS (the Fellowship of Catholic University Students). She and her family reside in Festus, Missouri.

NICK SMITH

is a seminarian for the Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama. He currently studies at Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans.

“Where are all the kids?” Has anyone else had this thought recently while driving around the neighborhood? For example, when is the last time you’ve seen a group of kids actually using one of the driveway basketball goals or backyard trampolines with any sort of frequency? I’ll wager that it’s been a while. Maybe everyone’s just in the backyard, but something tells me otherwise. It may come as no surprise that the play-based culture surrounding family life has largely been lost due to digital technology’s ruthless reign. Through the lens of a couple of classic family films, we can look back to what exactly we’ve lost, and what we can determinedly seek to regain.

For many of us throughout childhood, summer was a little less than heaven on earth. Growing up in the 90 s, I longed for summer. Not only did it serve as a break from school, but it also meant endless days in the great outdoors. I remember spending hours in our backyard playing kickball, running around our mowed-down diamond. We would go house-to-house playing madeup games. Where has this kind of summer gone? Kids look forward to the summers, not for the purpose of darting about the neighborhood, but so that they can virtually dart about online. They want to spend the sun-filled hours in front of a screen, playing video games with their friends from afar.

In The Sandlot, viewers retreat into a summer of old. Smalls is the new kid in town, and he’s reluctant to get outside and make friends this summer. Attempting to motivate him, his mom says, “I don’t want you sitting around in here all summer, fiddling with this stuff like you did last summer and the one before. I know you’re smart and I’m proud of you. I want you to get out into the fresh air and make some friends. Run around, scrape your knees, get dirty. Get into trouble, for crying out loud.”

He soon meets and joins a curious group of boys who gather each day in the summer to play baseball. At the beginning of the film, Smalls (who is also the narrator) says about the team, “They never kept score. They never chose sides. They never even really stopped playing the game. It just went on forever. Every day they picked up where they left off the day before. It was like an endless dream game.” However, they get into “a bit of a pickle” when Smalls hits his stepfather’s baseball, which is signed by Babe Ruth, over the fence into the yard of “The Beast.” It’s a legendary dog who has allegedly ravaged the local community and has thus been banished to his owner’s yard. The boys band together to scheme a way to save the ball without getting attacked by the dog. After many failed attempts, they eventually send Smalls himself into the yard to retrieve the ball. Mayhem ensues in the climax of the film.

In the narration, Smalls remarks that this summer would be one that they would never forget and what made this summer unforgettable for these boys wasn’t simply the sport of baseball. It was the camaraderie formed through spending endless days together on the field and at the pool. It was the adventure of working together to defeat “their enemy” and saving the signed baseball.

Another great example of a time before the bewitchment of technology would be The Goonies. Taking place in Oregon, a group of misfit boys named Mikey, Mouth, Chunk and Data, who call themselves the Goonies, are on the verge of losing their houses to a country club development. While exploring Mikey’s attic, the boys fid an old treasure map of One Eyed Willy’s supposed treasure hidden in their town. In an attempt to save their homes, they band together to locate the treasure.

In their journey to fid the lost treasure of One Eyed Willy, they of course encounter a few obstacles; they have a run in with the Fratellis crime family; meet an unlikely friend, Sloth; and encounter a series of life threatening booby traps before eventually fiding the treasure. Just when they think they are in the clear with the treasure ship, the Fratellis family catches up and makes claim to all the gold, binding up the kids in the process. All hope seems lost as they walk the plank, but Sloth and Chunk show up just in time and distract the Fratellis so the others can escape.

In the words of the Goonies, “I will never betray my Goon Dock friends. We will stick together until the whole world ends.” The Goonies brought the world of their imaginations to life and actually made a difference; they were able to get just enough gold to save their neighborhood from being transformed into a country club.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not advocating for our kids to go on adventures as dangerous as the Goonies and the Sandlot gang, but without stepping away from the screens and into the presence of others, there isn’t opportunity for adventure at all. The venturesome and daring moments we live out in our childhood make us the men and women we become. We grow up taking risks, standing up for what matters, and raising our children to do the same.

As parents, let’s cultivate experiences our kids will remember and cherish the rest of their lives. Yes, watch these movies and others as a family, but don’t let your kids settle for only ever watching someone else’s story. Pope Saint John Paul II reminds us that “life with Christ is a wonderful adventure,” and it is the responsibility of parents everywhere to fight to reclaim summers for a childhood where imagination flourishes and adventure is endless.

THE

VENTURESOME AND DARING MOMENTS

WE LIVE OUT IN OUR CHILDHOOD MAKE US THE MEN AND WOMEN WE BECOME. ” “

VACATION TOOLKIT

SPIRITUAL RESOURCES FOR SUMMER ADVENTURES

What does it look like to go on vacation and maintain our relationship with The Lord? While vacation is meant to be a time of leisure, adventure, and a break from routines and responsibilities, there are certain habits that ought to follow us wherever we go. Our relationship with Jesus is not something we can leave behind for the sake of respite but rather something that should permeate every aspect of our lives – even summer vacation.

The firststep to planning a getaway is always choosing a location. When it comes to findingways to incorporate faith formation, consider adding a visit to a national religious shrine to your summer fun itinerary. Swap the typical tourist traps for a pilgrimage to a nearby shrine! A simple internet search of locations near your vacation destination will illuminate you to the many religious wonders available to us if we only take the time to seek them out. Below is a short list to aid your family’s search whether you’re staying close to home or making your way out of state.

• Nation Shrine of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos in New Orleans, Louisiana

• St. Joseph Abbey in St. Benedict, Louisiana

• The Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama

• Our Lady of La Leche Shrine and Mission of Nombre de Dios in St. Augustine, Florida

As you plan your vacation itinerary, remember that the essence of a meaningful getaway goes beyond sightseeing and relaxation. Incorporating acts of service and moments of spiritual reflectioncan deepen the connection with our faith while fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment.Alongside exploring sacred destinations, consider opportunities to serve the community at your vacation spot. Acts of kindness can enrich our vacation experiences with profound meaning.

In addition to visiting beautiful and sacred places, research charities near your destination where you could volunteer your time. It could be serving meals at a soup kitchen, helping a local shelter, or participating in a community clean up. If you encounter someone in need while out and about, consider purchasing an extra meal and offeringit to them. Integrating service into your vacation allows you to live out the teachings of Jesus by serving others.

Wherever summer vacation may take your family and friends – make sure Mass and prayer are a part of that plan. The Church in her wisdom teaches us that, “On Sundays and other holy days of obligation the faithful are bound to participate in the Mass.” (CCC 2180 ) The only exception to the obligation to attend Mass in person is given “for a serious reason (for example, illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their own pastor.” (CCC 2181 ) This means that even while on vacation, we are obliged to attend Mass in person on Sundays and holy days of obligation.

There are so many tools at our fingertipsthat make planning to attend Mass easy! Download the MassTimes.org app to look up Mass and adoration times near your destination. Make it a part of the trip by seeking out a church parish you’ve never been to before or a church that is beautiful or has a particular devotion close to your family.

Once you’ve planned your trip, you’re ready to pack! In addition to your swimsuit and your sunglasses, grab your rosary and a spiritual book, or download your favorite spiritual podcast for your time on the road or in the air. If you are traveling with family or friends, have conversations about your spiritual life or aspects of the faith that interest you. Making these small, but intentional plans for your vacation will allow you to

APPS AND RESOURCES TO HELP YOU REMAIN FAITHFUL THIS SUMMER:

APPS: MASSTIMES.ORG

HALLOW

MAGNIFICAT

LAUDATE PODCASTS:

BIBLE IN A YEAR

CATECHISM IN A YEAR

SUMMER STEWARDSHIP:

SERVING THE HUNGRY IN THE SUMMER

AMY PONSON

is the Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana. She is a wife, mother, and philanthropist.

As the warmth of summer envelops us in its embrace, it’s a season ripe with opportunities to deepen our faith, strengthen family bonds, and practice stewardship. In the heart of this season, amidst the abundance of nature’s bounty, lies a poignant call to action – to extend our hands in service to those in need, and take an opportunity to engage our next generation in learning how to give back.

Service and volunteerism was engrained in me as a young child by my mother. She led by example, and while at times it felt like she dragged my sister and me around, today I vividly remember my experiences giving back. I will never forget serving at a soup kitchen in New Orleans at the ripe age of 11 and 12 , and the faces of the individuals who had not eaten in days. Their expression of gratitude filled my heart and made a lasting impression, building me into the person I am today. My faith was built in our church, but it started at home by my family putting it into practice often.

For many of us, the essence of our faith is intricately woven with the fabric of family. It’s within the embrace of our loved ones that we learn the values and principles that guide us in life. And what better way to instill these values than through the act of service? Teaching the next generation the importance of volunteering and serving those less fortunate not only cultivates empathy and compassion but also fosters a deep connection to our faith and community.

Summer, with students being home, relaxed schedules, no homework or afterschool rush, provides the perfect opportunity to engage in meaningful service activities as a family. And what better cause to rally behind than supporting local food banks during this time of need? We are reminded often about the food banks around the holidays with canned good food drives. However, so often the summertime is when our food banks have the highest rates of requests because students are home and not being fed at school. I know as a mom of three myself it is incredibly hard to keep our pantry stocked during the summer. While the abundance of fresh produce may grace our tables, it’s crucial to remember that for many families, summer can be a time of scarcity. Food banks often experience a decline in donations during the warmer months, exacerbating the struggles of those already facing hunger.

By volunteering at food banks, families can actively participate in addressing this pressing issue within their own communities. Whether it’s sorting and packaging food items, assisting with distribution, or organizing fundraising events, there are countless ways to get involved. These handson experiences not only make a tangible difference in the lives of others but also impart invaluable lessons to children about the importance of generosity, humility, and solidarity.

MY FAITH WAS BUILT IN OUR CHURCH, BUT IT STARTED AT HOME BY MY FAMILY PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE OFTEN.

Moreover, serving at food banks provides families with an opportunity to witness the transformative power of faith in action. As we extend a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in need, we embody the teachings of Jesus Christ, who exhorted us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and care for the marginalized. In these acts of service, we fid a profound expression of our shared humanity and our commitment to living out the Gospel message. Furthermore, volunteering at food banks during the summer serves as a powerful reminder of our role as stewards of God’s creation.

As a busy mom with a full-time job, I know how hard it is to pull away and carve out time. However, when I let go of the pressure and decided I would simply bring my kids along, it became one of our more fulfilling experiences together. It taught me the importance of allowing my kids to see the community around them, to humble themselves, and to experience God’s grace and filling our hearts with joy and compassion to give back.

In essence, serving at food banks during the summer is not just about filling empty stomachs; it’s about nourishing the soul and nurturing the bonds of faith and family. It’s about instilling values that will guide future generations to be compassionate, empathetic, and socially responsible individuals. As we embark on this journey of service together, let us heed the call to love and serve one another, knowing that in giving, we receive far more than we could ever imagine.

Not sure where to start? Catholic Charites right here in our own diocese has a number of foodbanks in your backyard: Catholic Community Center, Galliano, Good Samaritan Food bank in Raceland, Good Samaritan Food bank in Thibodaux, and our Food bank at St. Lucy’s in Houma which will be open very soon! You don’t have to look far to see the need and to easily give back! I encourage you to open your hearts to service!

HEAVENLY RECIPES PEACH COBBLER

This is an easy and quick recipe the kids love to help with. The ingredients are minimal and there is very little prep or mess (which is always nice with little ones around).

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 Golden Butter Cake Mix

• 1 1/2 sticks of butter

• 3 cans of sliced peaches

• Cinnamon and sugar

DIRECTIONS:

1. Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees.

2. Grease your baking dish with butter (save the remaining stick for later).

3. Drain the juice from the peaches and dump the sliced peaches into your baking dish.

4. Sprinkle the peaches with cinnamon/sugar to your satisfaction.

5. Add Golden Butter cake mix to cover the peaches (ensure the cake mix covers all of the peaches).

6. Thinly slice the butter and place on-top of the cake mix until all of the mix is covered in sliced butter.

7. Sprinkle the top with cinnamon/sugar to your satisfaction.

8. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until golden brown.

9. Serve over vanilla ice cream.

*You can substitute the peaches for other fruit such as: cherries, blueberries, blackberries, etc.

SARAH CASEY lives in Schriever with her husband John and four children Mary Ellen, Jean Clare, John Jr., and Bransford. She is a fulltime home maker and parishioner at St. Bernadette.

BAYOU PORK TENDERLOIN

A friend told us about this recipe, and we adopted it as a family favorite. When we grill it is a go to recipe. It is inexpensive and quick. We usually cook 2 to 4 tenderloins and serve the dish along with baked beans and rice. The tenderloins are tender, juicy and favorable.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb pork tenderloin

• 4 tbsp Slap Your Mama, can substitute favorite Cajun seasoning

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• Heavy duty aluminum foil, large pieces approximately 18 inches

DIRECTIONS:

1. Prepare tenderloin by removing all fat.

2 . Season generously w/Slap your Mamma Cajun seasoning

3 . Place directly on hot grill and sear for 2 minutes on each side turning once.

4. Remove from grill and place on sheet of aluminum foil

5. Spread olive oil over entire tenderloin and wrap tightly with foil so that no juices or steam can escape.

6. Cook on indirect heat for 55 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 155 degrees, turning every 10 minutes.

RICKY BILLIOT lives in Gray with his wife Nina. They have two children Grace and Nic, and four grandchildren. Ricky is a Party Chief at T. Baker Smith and a parishioner at St. Bridget.

CLERGY APPOINTMENTS

RETIREMENTS:

Very Rev. Simon Peter Engurait has accepted the retirement of the following priest:

FR. CLYDE MAHLER

On May 22 of this year, Fr. Mahler will celebrate his 25 th anniversary of ordination. He has most recently served as Pastor of St. Mary’s Nativity Catholic Church in Raceland.

We express great gratitude to him for his many years of dedicated service to the people of God entrusted to his care.

DEPARTURES:

FR. JOSEPH THAN VAN LIEM, CRM & FR. JAMES THIEN VAN NGUYEN, CRM have been called by their community to ministry outside of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux. We are grateful for their dedicated service to Thanh Gia Catholic Church in Amelia and to the Vietnamese community of our diocese.

ADMINISTRATOR APPOINTMENTS:

All of the following appointments of administrators are for one year, from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 .

FR. DAVIS AHIMBISIBWE

has been appointed Administrator of St. Lucy Catholic Church in Houma and St. Luke Catholic Church in Thibodaux, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Parochial Vicar of the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

FR. DUC BUI

has been appointed Administrator of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Pointe-aux-Chenes and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Montegut, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Larose.

FR. STEPHEN CASTILLE

has been appointed Administrator of Our Lady of the Rosary in Larose, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Parochial Vicar of St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Houma.

FR. CARL COLLINS

has been appointed Administrator of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Chauvin, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in St. Charles Community.

FR. BRICE HIGGINBOTHAM

has been appointed Administrator of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Chackbay, effective July 1, 2024. He has most recently completed studies for a License in Sacred Scripture at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome.

FR. BABY “PHILLIP” KURUVILLA

has been appointed Administrator of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in St. Charles Community, effective July 1, 2024. He has most recently served as Pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Chauvin.

FR. PETER TAI LE

has been appointed Administrator of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Houma, effective July 1, 2024. He has most recently served as Pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Galliano.

FR. JEAN MARIE NSAMBU

has been appointed Administrator of Annunziata Catholic Church in Houma, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently completed Spanish studies at the Mexican American Catholic College in San Antonio, TX, and a sixmonth Spanish language immersion in the Diocese of San Miguel in El Salvador.

FR. PATRICK RIVIERE

has been appointed Administrator of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Morgan City, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Priest-Secretary to the Office of the Bishop. He will remain in this role part-time, as well as his role as Director of the Office of the Priesthood.

FR. MIKE TRAN

has been appointed Administrator of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Galliano, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Pastor of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Morgan City.

FR. JOSEPH TREGRE

has been appointed Administrator of St. Mary’s Nativity Catholic Church in Raceland, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Parochial Vicar of St. Genevieve Catholic Church in Thibodaux and Sacramental Minister of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Chackbay.

FR. ROMEO “BILLY” VELASCO

has been appointed Administrator of St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Chacahoula, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Administrator of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Houma.

FR. ALPHONSE TRI VU, CRM

has been appointed Administrator of Thanh Gia Catholic Church in Amelia, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Parochial Vicar of Vietnamese Martyrs Catholic Church in Arlington, TX. He was ordained a priest in 2012 . We extend a warm welcome to Fr. Alphonse as he joins our diocesan family.

ADMINISTRATOR RENEWAL:

The following priests, currently serving as administrators of their respective parishes, are renewed in their assignment to those parishes for one year, from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025.

FR. RUSTY BRUCE

administrator of St. Hilary of Poitiers Catholic Church in Mathews and St. Anthony Catholic Church in Gheens.

FR. ANTONIO FARRUGIA

administrator of St. Eloi in Theriot and Holy Family in Dulac.

FR. BRETT LAPEYROUSE

administrator of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Morgan City.

FR. JOEY LIRETTE

administrator of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Cut Off

FR. JOHN DAVID MATHERNE

administrator of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Thibodaux.

FR. JAMES ROME

administrator of Holy Savior Catholic Church in Lockport.

PAROCHIAL VICAR/CHAPLAIN APPOINTMENTS:

All of the following appointments of parochial vicars and chaplains are for one year, from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 .

FR. PAUL BIRDSALL

has been appointed Parochial Vicar of St. Hilary of Poitiers Catholic Church in Mathews and St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Gheens, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Administrator of Annunziata Catholic Church in Houma.

FR. EVELIO “TOTO” BUENAFLOR

has been appointed Chaplain of Terrebonne General Health System in Houma, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Administrator of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Pointe-auxChenes and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Montegut. He will be in residence at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary in Houma.

MSGR. CLETUS EGBI

has been appointed Parochial Vicar of Christ the Redeemer in Thibodaux, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Administrator of St. Lucy Catholic Church in Houma and St. Luke Catholic Church in Thibodaux.

FR. GLENN LECOMPTE

has been appointed Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Chauvin, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently been in residence at St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in St. Charles Community.

FR. AUGUSTINE KY TRUONG, CRM

has been appointed Parochial Vicar of Thanh Gia Catholic Church in Amelia, effective July 1, 2024 . He has most recently served as Parochial Vicar of Queen of the Vietnamese Martyrs Catholic Church in Denver, CO. He was ordained a priest in 2011 . We extend a warm welcome to Fr. Augustine as he joins our diocesan family.

OTHER APPOINTMENTS:

FR. NOAS KERKETTA is released on medical leave.

FR. JOSEPH LAPEYROUSE

will provide pastoral assistance at St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Houma while home from studies for the summer break from July 1, 2024 to September 8, 2024 . He will complete his studies in Canon Law at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome in 2025

FR. MATTHEW PROSPERIE

will return to Rome on September 8, 2024 for one year to complete his studies for a license in Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. Until his departure, he will provide pastoral assistance at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC PILGRIMAGE IN THE DIOCESE OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX

Thursday, June 6, 2024 | See information below

60TH ANNIVERSARY MASS OF BISHOP EMERITUS

SAM JACOBS

Saturday, June 8, 2024 | Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales

JUNE 6, 2024

**HOUMA

Participants are invited to park at St. Bernadette, where a shuttle will be available to bring them to the Cathedral for Mass and the start of the procession.

**THIBODAUX

Participants are invited to park at St. Joseph, where a shuttle will be available to bring them to Christ the Redeemer for the start of the procession.

THEOLOGY ON TAP

Saturday, July 13, 2024

NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL

June 17-21, 2024 | Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN

2024 DIOCESAN YOUTH SUMMIT

July 26-28, 2024 | For more information, visit htparishsupport.org

HOUMA

CATHEDRAL OF ST. FRANCIS DE SALES: 9:00 a.m. Mass

Light Refreshments Depart around 10:30 a.m.

ST. BERNADETTE SOUBIROUS: Arrive around 12:00 p.m. Prayer and Lunch

THIBODAUX

CHRIST THE REDEEMER: Depart at 2:00 p.m.

STOPS AT: St. Genevieve St. Luke

CONCLUDES AT ST. JOSEPH CO-CATHEDRAL: Arrive around 4:00 p.m. Adoration, Confession, and Testimony by pilgrims 5:30 p.m. Mass and Reception

SIGN UP

Sign up at https://bit.ly/3V03bdE or by scanning the QR code.

Since 1954, Terrebonne General has been a beacon of health and hope in our community. As we mark seven decades of dedication to your wellbeing, we reflect on the incredible journey that has brought us to this moment.

Terrebonne General Health System remains committed to advancing healthcare, improving lives, and expanding our services to meet your evolving needs. In celebrating our past, we look forward to a future filled with promise and progress.

Thank you for allowing us to serve you for 70 remarkable years.