CHURCH
Volume XLIV, No. 4
www.diocesealex.org
Serving the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana Since 1970
ON THE
INSIDE Planned Parenthood to build $4.2 million abortion center in New Orleans
Christ has Risen!
When Planned Parenthood’s multimillion-dollar “New Orleans Health Center” opens at 4636 South Claiborne Ave., perhaps as early as 2014, it could become the largest abortion facility in Louisiana. See page 2.
Fr. Ferreolus D’Cruz dies Rev. Ferreolus M. D’Cruz, pastor of St. Edward Catholic Church in Tallulah, La. passed away April 3 at Madison Parish Hospital after an apparent heart attack. He was 81. Read more about him on page 5.
OLPS celebrates Open House for new $2.2 million Divine Providence Center Our Lady of Prompt Succor parishioners celebrated Open House April 6-7 in the new $2.2 million Divine Providence Center after each of the weekend Masses. For complete story and picture spread, go to pages 12-13.
Jesus, portrayed by Fr. Dan O’Connor, pastor of OLPS, rises from the dead, during the annual Easter Story play, presented by the First Grade on March 27. Turn to pages 10-11, & 16 for more Easter activities throughout the diocese..
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$4.2 million abortion center coming to New Orleans Planned Parenthood targets black, Latino neighborhoods to build ‘health’ centers By Peter Finney Jr. Clarion Herald Planned Parenthood Gulf Coast, an affiliate of Planned Parenthood (PP), the largest abortion business in the nation, plans to build a $4.2 million regional facility that will perform abortions, according to NOLA Needs Peace, an interfaith alliance in New Orleans. When the multimillion-dollar “New Orleans Health Center” opens at 4636 South Claiborne Ave., perhaps as early as 2014, it could become the largest abortion facility in Louisiana. “We see this as a regional facility that will come in and draw women from across the southeast (U.S.) for abortions,” said Ben Clapper, executive director of the Louisiana Right to Life Federation. “This will increase the number of abortions in New Orleans.” Clapper said the only other
Planned Parenthood clinic in New Orleans (located on Magazine Street) does not perform abortions. Among the goals for the new “health center” listed in PP’s fund-raising brochure is to “provide access to medically safe abortion procedures.” Planned Parenthood performs about one-third of all abortions in the U.S. -- about 330,000 -- and its abortion numbers have increased in recent years even as national abortion rates have either decreased or leveled off. According to Clapper, PP performs abortions on nine out of 10 pregnant women who come through its doors; for every one adoption, referral in 2011, PP performed 145 abortions; and abortions in 2011 represented 92 percent of Planned Parenthood’s pregnancy service, with prenatal care accounting for 7 percent and adoption referrals 0.6 percent.
Deacon Allen Stevens of St. Peter Claver Church, Lauren Lagarde of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Maria Hamilton of Gideon Fellowship Church and Ben Clapper, executive director of the Louisiana Right to Life Federation, pray in front of the property that will become a Planned Parenthood abortion clinic.
Clapper said that every nonabortion service that Planned Parenthood could offer at the new facility -- such as pregnancy testing, birth control, STD testing and adoption referrals -- already is available in New Orleans. PP received $542 million in tax-payer funding in 2011-12, representing 45 percent of its total revenue. Revenue from abortion services -- $157 million -- represents 50.4 percent of Planned Parenthood’s non-governmental health services income. The clinic will also have a detrimental effect on the minority population, Clapper said. PP has located 70 percent of its facilities within walking distance of African-American or Latino neighborhoods.
Take Action
NOLA Needs Peace has launched a website -- www.nolaneedspeace.com -- that explains the facts about Planned Parenthood and its plans for the new facility. The Archdiocese of New Orleans will host a “NOLA Needs Peace Awareness Week” April 27-May 3 to offer parishioners in every parish information about Planned Parenthood and its plans. “We’re encouraging each parish and school to distribute the materials we will be providing them,” Clapper said. “We’ll also be doing that in the Baptist and evangelical churches. For more information, go to nolaneedspeace.com where (under Action Steps) you can sign a declaration statement.
Planned Parenthood performs abortions on 9 out of every 10 women who come through its doors.
Facts and Figures • PP performs abortions on 9 out of every 10 women who come through its doors. • For every one adoption referral, PP performs 145 abortions. • Abortions account for 92 percent of PP’s pregnancy services. • Prenatal care accounts for 7 percent of PP’s services. • Adoption referrals account for 0.6 perecent of PP’s services. • PP received $542 million in tax-payer funding in 2011-12 (45 percent of total revenue. • Abortions generated $157 million in revenue in 2011-12 (50.4 percent of PP’s non-governmental health services income). • 79 percent of PP’s facilities are located within walking distance of African-American or Latino neighborhoods. • The only PP facilities in Louisiana are currently located in Baton Rouge (3955 Government St) and in New Orleans (4018 Magazine Street) Neither facility offer abortion services according to the official PP website. • The largest abortion facility in the state is in Shreveport, where 3,087 abortions were performed in 2010.
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Words to describe Pope Francis: authentic, activist, reformer By Maria-Pia Negro Catholic News Service
WASHINGTON (CNS) -Pope Francis’ priorities will include working for the poor, protecting God’s creation, strengthening interreligious dialogue, reforming the Roman Curia and evangelizing, a Jesuit priest told journalists at an April 3 event at the National Press Club in Washington. Jesuit Father Tom Reese, director of the Religion and Public Policy program at Georgetown University’s Woodstock Theological Center, talked about how the first Jesuit and first Latin American pope could change the church. “This is going to be a much more activist pope,” said Father Reese, who covered the conclave from Rome for the National Catholic Reporter newspaper. “I think he told us his agenda when he picked the name of Francis.” Like St. Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis helped the poor when working in the slums of Buenos Aires, Argentina, as bishop; focused on peace and interreligious dialogue with evangelicals, Jews and Muslims; and highlighted the importance God’s creation and human dignity. After Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected pope,
POPE FRANCIS EMBRACING BOY CAPTURES WORLDWIDE ATTENTION.This photo by AP photographer Gregorio Borgia of Pope Francis embracing 8-year-old Dominic Gondreau, who has cerebral palsy, captured the attention of people around the world. The moment took place after the new pontiff celebrated his first Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican March 31. While riding through the crowds in the pope mobile, Pope Francis spotted the young boy in a wheelchair. The pope mobile suddenly stopped, the Pope got out, picked up the little boy and embraced him warmly. (Gregorio Borgia, AP via CNS) he quickly showed the world his simple and open persona,
signaling that he would stray away from “heavy-duty theology” to focus on biblically based evangelization and living the Gospels’ message daily, Father Reese said.
For this, he would draw from his experience as priest and bishop, he added. “He is truly authentic. These are things that he was doing in Buenos Aires,” Father Reese
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said. “You know, as archbishop, you don’t take the bus because you think ‘I might become pope one day.’” The pope’s other priority, reforming the Vatican’s administrative government known as the Roman Curia, could be more difficult, Father Reese said. Though several cardinals agree to reform a curia accused of corruption, they don’t know how to do it, said Father Reese, who has authored several books about the church’s power structure. Conservatives might want the curia to better police church issues while liberals would like the church’s power to be more decentralized, he said. “The real question is: What should the members of the curia do?” Father Reese said. Father Reese also mentioned that the curia’s problems influenced the cardinals’ decision to name a relatively unknown outsider as the new pope. During the official pre-conclave meetings, Cardinal Bergoglio talked against the evils of careerism and the need for the church to “come out of herself and evangelize.” “Now, that made an impression,” Father Reese said. He added that the cardinals knew that Cardinal Bergoglio had been the runner-up during the 2005 conclave. Pope Francis knows his acts of humility -- such as paying for his own hotel bill and visiting AIDS patients -- send a message, Father Reese added. “I think he is using these symbolic actions as a way of preaching the Gospel and also as a way of sending signals to the clergy,” Father Reese said. “He is modeling a certain attitude and practice. That is a change in culture that is very important for the church.” This change includes Catholics seeing the church not only as a do-gooder organization, he added, in reference to Pope Francis’ remarks that the church is not only a “compassionate NGO.” “We don’t just run soup kitchens,” Father Reese said. “In reaching out to the poor, we are also preaching the Gospel. Taking care of people’s bodies we are also taking care of people’s souls.”
PAGE 4 As we continue to celebrate the 50 days of the Easter Season there are many opportunities to celebrate the sacramental life of the Church. Younger children excitedly look forward to receiving Communion for the first time. Teenagers are in the final stages of preparation for Confirmation. For me, personally, visiting parishes to administer Confirmation is always a high point of the year. To see hundreds of our young adult Catholics so involved in their faith and responding so enthusiastically is so reassuring. It is espe-
CHURCH TODAY ONE IN THE LORD Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria cially meaningful during this Year of Faith! The papal ministry of Pope Francis continues to attract significant media attention. There
is no question that, from the very beginning, he has placed his own unique stamp on his new role. He seems to have no hesitation in doing things ‘his way’!
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Unfortunately, recent days have also been marked with sadness. The unexpected death of Father Ferreolus D’Cruz has had a profound effect on many people who knew him. As pastor of St. Edward Church in Tallulah, he touched the lives of so many people of all faiths in the northeastern part of the diocese. A large number of priests and people from many places were present for the Vigil and the Mass of Christian Burial as well as the interment at our cemetery at Maryhill. He will be missed by us all. Pray keep him
in your prayers. End of school events will also soon be upon us as preparation for graduations gain momentum. Additionally, as the month of May approaches, we find many communities scheduling ways to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus and our mother. May the choicest of Easter blessings be showered upon you and all who are dear to you!
Image of the Infant of Prague provokes a turnaround in faith journey Last spring, I wanted a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. My web search yielded many images, including a few of the Infant of Prague. I made my decision on the Sacred Heart statue and placed the order, but I couldn’t stop thinking about the Infant of Prague images. Every now and then, my former Protestant bias resurfaces. It happened last spring as I studied the images of the Infant of Prague. I did not feel any affection for this devotion. Not a bit. I’ve learned to pause when I feel like this and try to go deeper. What was it about this image that bothered me? The clothes. Yes, the clothes and the crown — it was all so ostentatious. It didn’t fit with the Christ Child who chose to be born in a stable or the Messiah who deliberately chose His own parents from the poorest of the poor. I tried to tell myself that I was being ridiculous because, of course, Jesus is the king of kings. Perhaps the outward appearance of this little Child reflected the spiritual
Catholic By Grace Denise Bossert Freelance reality of Jesus Christ, king of heaven and earth. Further research revealed that St. Teresa of Avila had a great devotion to the Infant of Prague. That didn’t help. But I paused because something amazing happens every time I agree to let God give me an attitude adjustment. About that time, my youngest grandson was on my mind. He’s never been baptized, and his mom (my daughter) had never settled in any church or denomination. I pray about this every time I receive the Eucharist. I began to realize that there was a link in my mind between the Infant of Prague and my in-
fant grandson, Omry. Every time I thought about the Infant of Prague, I felt I could entrust my grandson to the one who held the world in the palm of His divine, albeit infant, hand. Last June, I went to our parish rummage sale. I was almost ready to pay for my items when I saw a print of the Infant of Prague. The colors were muted, the child’s face -- lovely. It was different from all the images I had seen online. I muttered something and walked over to it. “I want this, too,” I told the cashier. Another web search linked the print to 20th-century Italian artist Adolfo Simeone. I keep the print in my bed-
room as a reminder to pray for Omry. Recently, I wrote about the events surrounding my granddaughter’s birth -- how she was born without life signs and was oxygen-deprived for 12 additional minutes. Eliana is home and doing well. God is merciful, and the manifestation of that mercy has affected the entire extended family, including my prodigal daughter. She began attending RCIA. She was part of the Rite of Election a few weeks ago, and on Pentecost
CHURCH
Sunday she will enter the Church. Omry will be baptized. Omry’s little brother will be baptized soon after he is born. A series of conversions have occurred, like a line of falling dominoes. I know the Church has many devotions, and we are given great latitude in choosing the ones we cherish most, but I am glad that I went a little deeper. I have come to love the image I discovered at a church rummage sale. And now when I see the Adolfo Simeone print, I say a prayer of thanks .
TODAY
Volume XLIV, No. 4 • April 15, 2013 P. O. Box 7417 • Alexandria, LA 71303 churchtoday@diocesealex.org 318-445-6424 Publisher: Editor: Advertising: Circulation:
Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog, Bishop of Alexandria Jeannie Petrus, ext. 255; jpetrus@diocesealex.org Joan Ferguson, ext. 264; joanferguson@diocesealex.org Sandi Tarver, ext. 209; starver@diocesealex.org
THE CHURCH TODAY (USPS 393-240) is published by the Catholic Diocese of Alexandria, once a month, free of charge to members of the parishes in the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana. Out of diocese subscriptions are $20 a year. The office is located at 4400 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria, LA 71303. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, LA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The CHURCH TODAY, P. O. Box 7417, Alexandria, LA 71306 The CHURCH TODAY is a member of the Catholic Press Association. Website: www.diocesealex.org/thechurchtoday To receive a free subscription, call 318-445-6424, ext 255 or e-mail jpetrus@diocesealex.org
APRIL 15, 2013
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Father Ferreolus D’Cruz, pastor of St. Edward Church, dies Rev. Ferreolus M. D’Cruz, pastor of St. Edward Catholic Church in Tallulah, La. passed away April 3 at Madison Parish Hospital after an apparent heart attack. He was 81. A Mass of Christian Burial, with Bishop Ronald Herzog as the main celebrant, was held Saturday, April 6 at 10 a.m. at St. Edward Church. Additional seating was available in St. Edward Parish Hall.
Fr. Ferreolus D’Cruz
Interment followed later that afternoon at the Priests Cemetery at Maryhill Renewal Center in Pineville. “Father Ferre was most loved by all who knew him and a marvelous example of a man sent in the Holy Orders of priesthood,” said Rev. Scott Chemino, vicar general for the Diocese of Alexandria. “Please pray for Father and all of the Tallulah community who have sustained this loss of a
spiritual leader and “Father” to so many.” Father D’Cruz, originally from India (Trivandrum, Kerala), was ordained a priest on Oct. 3, 1959 in Pune, India. He came to the Diocese of Alexandria in 1991, where he temporarily served in sacramental ministry at St. Patrick Church in Ferriday and its missions of St. Gerard in Jonesville and St. Francis of Assisi in Waterproof.
After serving briefly as a chaplain at St. Frances Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria, he was assigned to St. Francis de Sales in Echo as pastor and served there from 1992-1997. In 1998, he was assigned to St. Edward Church in Tallulah, where he served as pastor until his death. Father Ferre was a member of the Presbyteral Council, the College of Consultors, and served as Vicar Forane from 2006-2011.
Bishops offer prayers after death of former PM Margaret Thatcher
By Simon Caldwell Catholic News Service
(CNS) -- The Catholic bishops of England and Wales offered prayers for the soul of Margaret Thatcher, the former British prime minister who died at age 87 following a stroke. Baroness Thatcher, who led Britain from 1979 to 1990, died “peacefully” the morning of April 8, according to her family. Soon after news of her death was made public, Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Westminster, president of the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, issued a short statement.
“It was with sadness that we heard the news of the death of Baroness Thatcher, who served this country for many years both as a member of Parliament and as prime minster,” said Archbishop Nichols. “We pray for the repose of her soul and for the intentions of her family and all those who now mourn for her,” he added. Later that day, the Vatican released a telegram that Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican’s secretary of state, sent on behalf of Pope Francis. The telegram said the pope “was saddened to learn of the death” of Thatcher
and recalled “with appreciation the Christian values which underpinned her commitment to public service and the promotion of freedom among the family of nations.” It said Pope Francis entrusted her soul to God’s mercy and assured her family and the British people of his prayers. Baroness Thatcher, the daughter of a Methodist greengrocer, became the first woman ever to hold the office of British prime minister when her centerright Conservative Party swept to power at the end of a decade troubled by economic misery and public strikes. FORMER BRITISH PRIME MINISTER SEEN AT PAPAL AUDIENCE Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher is seen during Pope Benedict XVI’s weekly audience in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican May 27. (CNS photo/Alessia Pierdomenico, Reuters)
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Seminarian Burses Donations in February Knights of Columbus 9217. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$10.00 Father Adrian Molenschott Burse Mrs. Elizabeth W. Allen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$20.00 Odis James Miller Burse Ms. Mary D. Thompson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$25.00 Odis James Miller Burse Deacon and Mrs. Rodrick B. Broussard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.00 Msgr. Milburn Broussard Burse Anonymous. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50.00 Father Michael P. Kammer Burse Dr. Joseph Landreneau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Msgr. Henry Beckers Burse Total this month. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$255.00 Donations in March Knights of Columbus 9217. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$10.00 Father Adrian Molenschott Burse Deacon and Mrs. Rodrick B. Broussard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.00 Msgr. Milburn Broussard Burse Dr. Joseph Landreneau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Msgr. Henry Beckers Burse Mr. & Mrs. Gerald J. Leglue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Msgr. Joseph M. Susi Burse Mr. & Mrs. Sammy Cashio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Dylan Michael Cashio Burse Mr. & Mrs. Robert O. Miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $400.00 Father Daniel Corkery Burse Ms. Geraldine B. Deptula. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000.00 Father Bruce Miller Burse Total this month. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,760.00
GUESTS AT THE APOSTOLIC NUNCIATURE. Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, (center) the Apostolic Nuncio and Chancellor of the Pontifical College Josephinum, hosted the fourth-year theologians at the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, DC on Feb. 24. Morning Mass in the chapel was followed by brunch and a tour of the Nunciature. Msgr. Christopher Schreck, PCJ rector and Bishop Ronald Herzog, Bishop of Alexandria and Chair of the Josephinum’s Board of Trustees, accompanied the group. “We are grateful to Archbishop Viganò, in his role as Chancellor of the Pontifical College Josephinum, for his friendship, hospitality, and support, as expressed in this annual invitation,” said Msgr. Schreck. The Apostolic Nunciature is a top-level diplomatic mission of the Holy See, equivalent to an embassy. Fourth-Year Seminarians with the Nuncio (l-r): Matthew Morris (Columbus); Juan Salazar (Brownsville); Terrence McGowan (Nashville); Bryan Medlin (Gaylord); Monsignor Christopher Schreck; Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò; Bishop Ronald Herzog; Christopher Lapp (Fort Wayne-South Bend); Michael Hennigen (Covington); Kurt Perera (Phoenix); Richard Vu (Atlanta); and Christopher Axline (Phoenix).
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SECRETARY OF THE YEAR. Fr. Edwin Rodriguez, pastor of St. Alphonsus in Hessmer, hosted the 8th annual Avoyellean Secretary Appreciation Supper on Feb. 5 at the church rectory. All secretaries (and spouses) in the Avoyelles Deanery were invited. Delilah Aymond, secretary at OL of Lourdes, Fifth Ward, was honored as “Secretary of the Year. Other secretaries attending were (front row) Shauntelle Greco, Angie Vernon, Julia Voinche, Danita Coco, and Shirley Mayeux. Back row: Fr. Edwin Rodriguez, Juliet Lindsey, Susan Poche, and Deliliah Aymond.
CATHOLIC CHARISMATIC DAY OF RENEWAL. More than 100 people attended the Catholic Charismatic Day of Renewal held March 9 at St. Anthony of Padua Church Hall in Natchitoches. The event is held annually by the Diocese of Alexandria Service Committee. Speakers included Joan Gahagan of Natchitoches, Fr. Jason Gootee of Holy Cross Church in Natchitoches, and Aggie Neck of Marksville.
HOLY ROSARY COMMUNITY. Parishioners of the three church communities of St. Patrick’s in Montgomery; St. John the Baptist in Cloutierville; and Holy Rosary in Emmanuel, together with Fr. Harold Imamshah, joined each other March 12 for a Lenten Pilgrimage at Holy Rosary Mission in Emmanuel. The pilgrimage started with the Stations of the Cross at the outdoor stations at the Emmanuel Cemetery, continuing with Mass at the Holy Rosary Church and ending with a time of fellowship, lunch, and fun.
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Radio Maria nets $164,000 during Spring Mariathon One of the “miracles” Radio Maria attributes to St. Joseph was the outpouring of generosity during the recent Mariathon. The 2013 Spring Mariathon, which was dedicated in honor of St. Joseph, was held March 19 (the Feast of St. Joseph) through Saturday, March 23, and brought in a record breaking $164,000! Generous donors from around the country, as well as some Internet listeners from around the world, responded to an on-air plea to help the Catholic radio station expand its national network. The most successful hour came on the last day (Saturday) when Father Robert Young was speaking on air about the need to purchase new signals in different areas of the country. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will very soon be making more than 700 new signals in the U.S. available for purchase. Applications are currently being accepted, but a fee of $15,000 per signal is needed. Within one hour, several
FCC decency standards From pg. 9 Under a 2001 FCC policy that was amended in 2004, network and local radio and television channels can be fined up to $325,000 for a single fleeting expletive blurted out on a live show or for brief glimpses of nudity. Cable and satellite operators are not subject to such rules. The FCC said that it would continue to enforce its current policies as usual during the comment period and that their public notice did not alter any of its policies. The TV industry has argued that policies have been inconsistent over the years, allowing the television broadcast of movie “Schindler’s List” that includes nudity, but leading to fines against News Corp’s Fox television for expletives uttered by singer Cher and reality TV star Nicole Riche on award shows in 2002 and 2003.
donors called in with offers of $15,000 to go toward purchasing new signals. “I never imagined when I spoke on the air of the need for new signals that we would have several individuals to donate enough to apply for FIVE of them!” said Fr. Robert. “This is an exciting opportunity that will not come again soon. The deadline to apply for them will be October this year. For more information about Radio Maria, call 561-6145 or go to radiomaria.us.
RADIO MARIA MARIATHON VOLUNTEERS. Radio Maria Mariathon volunteers gathered around the studio table for a lunch provided by a local Knights of Columbus council. The Spring Mariathon, held March 19-23, netted more than $164,000 for the listener-supported Catholic radio station. Pictured are (from left) Frank Hare, Carla Rachall, Patrick McCusker, Diane Ardoin, Father Robert Young, Sandra Miletello, and Danny Brou.
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FCC to consider modifying its indeceny policies on radio, TV Should FCC allow leeway for ‘fleeting, non-repetitive’ vulgarities on live shows? By Jeannie Petrus CT editor The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced it is considering dropping current broadcast decency standards that ban explicit profanity and “non-sexual” nudity. The FCC has issued a public notice inviting comment on the issue until April 30.. The FCC is not considering “dropping its ban” and allowing television and radio stations to freely broadcast profanity and nudity on the public airwaves, but rather whether the commission should modify its indecency standards to grant leeway for fleeting, non-repetitive cases of such material. The case of FCC vs Fox Television Stations originated with two incidents involving Billboard Music Awards shows aired live by the Fox television network in 2002 and 2003, during which two presenters -- Cher and Nicole Richie -- “dropped the F-bomb”: These incidents prompted the FCC to alter its enforcement
TAKE ACTION If you would like to let your voice be heard on this issue, go to the FCC special website below and enter your comment. The FCC will not accept general email comments. To be valid, you are required to file a formal comment via the FCC’s website. All comments will become part of FCC records and the personal information provided therein (name, e-mail address, and address) will become part of public record on the Internet. of decency standards: whereas previously the FCC had given broadcasters leeway for “fleeting” expletives (spontaneous utterances that were unknowingly allowed to enter the airwaves), that agency subsequently prohibited “single uses of vulgar words” under any circumstances and levied fines against Fox. Fox challenged those fines in the courts, with the U.S. Supreme Court eventaully ruling in 2012 that the FCC’s fines were invalid because the regulations of the time were “unconstitutionally vague” but reaffirming the FCC’s authority to regulate broadcast television in behalf of the public
Please follow these instructions carefully, to insure your comment is accepted by the FCC: 1. Go to http://apps.fcc.gov/ecfs/uploadbegin?procName=&filedFrom=X. 2. Enter the code “13-86” in the “Proceeding Number” box and fill out the few remaining required fields. 3. Enter your comment in the text box provided and click “Continue.” 4. From there, review your comment and click “Confirm.” Here is a sample comment you may submit (posted on “OneMIllionMoms.com website): “I oppose any changes to the current FCC indecency standards that would allow television and radio stations to broadcast expletives and nudity on the public airwaves, even if brief or “fleeting.” The Supreme Court has confirmed the FCC’s authority to enforce policies regarding expletives and nudity, especially during times when children are likely to be watching or listening. Relaxing the current policy would not serve the public interest and I urge the FCC to reject all proposals that would allow for the broadcast of expletives and nudity on FCC-licensed stations.”
The deadline for making comments is April 30, 2013
interest without violating the First Amendment. Since the decision in FCC vs Fox Television Stations, the FCC has begun a review of whether it should make changes to its current broadcast indecency policies. Approaches under consideration include whether the FCC should maintain a standard holding that ‘deliberate and repetitive use (of expletives) in a blatently offensive manner is a requisite to a finding of indecency” or should continue a ban on the use of “any indecent language (including expletives referring to “sexual or excretory activity or organs”) even when the offensive words are not repeated. Another issue on the table is whether the FCC should treat isoloated non-sexual nudity on television (such as the infamous Janet Jackson “wardrobe malfunction” incident during the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show) the same or differently than isolated expletives. The FCC is now seeking public comment on whether its currently approach should be amended: The FCC issued a public notice inviting comment on whether it should focus its efforts on pursuing only the “most egregious” cases in which rules are broken, or focus on isolated cases of nudity and expletives uttered on radio and TV shows. “We now seek comment on whether the full Commission should make changes to its current (egregious cases) broadcast indecency policies or maintain them as they are,” the FCC said on April 1. It asked for public input over the next 30 days on whether, for example, it should treat cases of nudity in the same way as profanity, and whether “deliberate and repetitive” use of expletives is necessary to prove indecency. See FCC DECENCY STANDARDS, pg. 8
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EASTER BONNETS AT ST. FRANCES CABRINI SCHOOL. The Pre-K children at St. Frances Cabrini School enjoyed an Easter Egg Hunt March 29 on the school grounds, while wearing the Easter bonnets they made.
OUR LADY OF LOURDES (Fifth Ward) EASTER EGG HUNT. The Saturday morning chilly weather on March 30 did not stop the kids from coming to Church to have fun at the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Fifth Ward. Father Silverino Kwebuza, pastor, enjoyed the egg hunt, with the children. FIVE BAPTIZED AT ST. JAMES MEMORIAL CATHOLIC CHURCH. Five young people were baptized March 30 during the Easter Vigil Mass held at St. James Memorial Church in Alexandria. Pictured are (from left) RCIA candidate (seated) and her sponsor Minnie Marshall (not shown); (seated) and their godparents Milton Fisher and Mary Ann Celestine (standing); (seated) and his godparents Sterling Delavallade and Narvella Chambers (standing); (seated) and his godparents Henry Henton and Theresa Metoyer; and Father Remigius Owuamanam, pastor and Deacon Benny Broussard.
ST MARTIN OF TOURS (Belledeau) EASTER EGG HUNT. After the 9 a.m. Easter Sunday Mass, a large crowd of children participated in the annual Easter Egg Hunt at St. Martin of Tours Church in Belledeau March 30, even though the morning was pretty chilly. It was a lot of fun for the kids. ST. PETER MISSION EASTER EGG HUNT. The kids at St. Peter Mission in Elmer had a great time at the Easter Egg Hunt. Pictured are
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APRIL 15, 2013
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PALM SUNDAY IN COLFAX. An ecumenical procession involving four churches around Colfax took place on Palm Sunday. The congregations of the Colfax Methodist and Baptist churches joined with the parishioners of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Colfax and St. Patrick Catholic Church in Montgomery to have the Blessing of Palms and a Palm Sunday procession through Colfax. The procession started from the parking lot of the Colfax Baptist Church and ended at the entrance steps of St. Joseph Church. Pictured above are Deacon E.J. Barre and Fr. Harold Imamshah, pastor at St. Joseph and St. Patrick.
HOLY GHOST CHOIR ON EASTER SUNDAY. The Holy Ghost Church Choir (Marksville), along with the altar servers, made the Easter Vigil and Sunday morning Mass extra special. Pictured are Linda Francisco, Fr. Abraham Varghese, , Bernadette Rogers, Dora Bacon, Annatrail Simon, Gayle Daniel, and Tykesia Prier.
DIVINE MERCY AT ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA (Natchitoches). Father John O’Brien, Fr. Adam Travis (St. Augustine parish), and Fr. Thomas Paul joined Ms. Deborah Llorens (CCD director) and the wonderful youth of St. Anthony of Padua and many parishioners and visitors in singing the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3 p.m. during Adoration at St. Anthony’s. Pictured with the Divine Mercy Painting which hangs in St. Anthony are (front row) Back row: Matthew Roquemore.
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ST. FRANCIS CABRINI STATIONS OF THE CROSS. St. Frances Cabrini School held the Living Stations of the Cross March 27 at the Church presented by the 5th and 6th graders. Pictured are (6), (5), (5), (5), (K), (K), (Grade 6)
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OLPS completes $2.2 million Divine Providence Center Our Lady of Prompt Succor parishioners were wowed with excitement and pride April 6-7 as they toured the new $2.2 million Divine Providence Center after each of the weekend Masses. Rev. Dan O’Connor, pastor, said he was extremely pleased with the finished results and wished to thank the generosity of the many parishioners who supported the project. (Below) The hallway that leads to main conference room.
(Above) CONFERENCE ROOM. The large conference room can be divided into three separate rooms: Our Lady of Prompt Succor Room, Providence Room, and Father Menard Room. As one room, the conference area can accommodate 500 chairs and is equipped with two 10-ft HD video screens and a full sound system. (Left) YOUTH OFFICE. The right side of the center houses the Youth Office, which includes an office for the DRE (Paul Hood) and administrative assistant for ministry (Renee Aldridge). (ABOVE) COMMERCIAL KITCHEN. A huge commercial kitchen is located adjacent to the conference room. A professional chef’s dream, the kitchen is equipped with a tilting braising pan, a food warmer, one commercial oven and three convection ovens, refrigerators and freezers, and one dishwasher. A buffet window opens up between the kitchen and conference room. Adjacent to the kitchen is an outdoor covered patio, -- ideal for outdoor cooking. “We have lots of fish frys, crawfish boils and other outdoor cookouts that will utilize this area,” said Father Dan. “Even caterers for receptions will be able to use this area for outside food assembly.” (RIGHT) FOYER. Mauve-colored walls, a flat screen TV and warm shades of brown and tan welcome visitors to the new Divine Providence Center. According to Father Dan, the center was named after the Sisters of Divine Providence, who have been an intergral part of the neighborhood since 1914 -- first as part of Providence Central Academy and then as part of Our Lady of Prompt Succor School. All photos by Jeannie Petrus Church Today editor
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(Far Left) RESTROOMS. The men’s and women’s restrooms are both equipped with three sinks, a baby changing table and wooden stalls. The only difference is that there are seven stalls in the women’s and four in the men’s. (Left) ARTWORK. The beautiful art that adorns the walls of every room and hallway in the building are all original paintings of OLPS parishioners -- young and old. In the Youth Office four students -- Maddie Gallagher, Kate Arbour, and Jordan and Bailey Spurgeon -- were commissioned to do art specifically for the new center. Other art in the conference hallway is provided by ACTS Retreats. (Center) OUTSIDE OF BUILDING. The center is located behind the church, facing the parking lot between the church and school. (Bottom Left) INFORMAL MEETING ROOM FOR YOUTH is complete with three leather sofas, a 60inch HD TV screen, surround sound, and seating for 12 around a large conference table. (Bottom Right) FORMAL MEETING ROOM FOR YOUTH can accommodate up to 60 chairs and is also equipped with a 70-inch flatscreen HDTV, surround sound, and Apple TV (wireless TV that can send signals -- music or video -- to any TV in the building).
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CHURCH TODAY SACRED HEART BIRDHOUSE PROJECT. Sacred Heart School’s 5th grade class built 30 bluebird houses and 4 woodduck boxes Feb. 28 as part of a class project. Mr.& Mrs.Tim Bordelon donated their workshop in Moreauville for the students to assemble the boxes. Supervision and guidance came from Bordelon, Jamie Rusk, Samuel Bonnette and numerous parents, who generously donated their time, tools, and expertise. After the class completed the construction phase, they loaded the bus and headed to Juneau’s Sa-
APRIL 15, 2013
fari, in Hamburg, to take photos of wildlife and to create a wildlife habitat by installing two of the bluebird boxes and one of the woodduck boxes on location. They toured the facility and enjoyed the petting zoo of exotic animals. Everyone enjoyed hamburgers and hotdogs compliments of Juneau’s staff. Several students who participated in the Wildlife Habitat Enhancement Program offered by the Avoyelles Wildlife Federation plan to donate their projects. Teacher Joel Tassin and some of the students ( , and wade into the water at Juneau’s Safari, to install a woodduck box.
APRIL 15, 2013
CHURCH TODAY
ST. FRANCIS CABRINI KIDS MEET KALB METEOROLOGIST. Meteorologist Dorrell Wenninger from KALB-TV’s Jambalaya visited with the 1st and 2nd grade classes at St. Frances Cabrini School March 6. A segment was aired on March 7. The students had a blast and asked a lot of GREAT questions. Thank you Ms. Vicknair for inviting Mr. Wenninger to visit with the students.
ST. MARY’S (Natchitoches) REC BASKETBALL CHAMPS. St. Mary’s students in grades 4-7 participated in the Bossier Parish Parks and Recreation Basketball league. Four of the seven teams won the league championship. The 4th grade Championship Team presenting their trophy and a certificate to Principal Phyllis Scott in appreciation for her allowing them to practice in the SMH gym. Pictured are (front row) , Mrs. Scott, . Back row: Coach Hope Churchman, , and Coach Scott Godfrey.
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NATIONAL GUARD BRINGS YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE TO OLPS. OLPS Kindergarten students welcomed Sgt. Patra Buchanan, SSG John Brown & SSG David Speed to their three classes March 19 for “story time”. Each National Guard officer read You Are Sunshine by Shirley Porter to the children and presented each of them with a copy of the book. The book is designed to build self-esteem within each child and is an important part of The Sunshine Foundation supported by the National Guard. Pictured is Mrs. Natalie Taylor’s K2 class.
OL of PROMPT SUCCOR SONATINA COMPETITION. OLPS music students received Superior ratings in the Cenla Sonatina Competition held March 2 at Emmanuel Baptist Church. Pictured are (front row) trophy winners for Outstanding Performances: and . Back row: Sr. Pat Kimball, music teacher; , and . ST. MARY’S 3RD GRADERS PAINT. Mrs. Cynthia Brown visited Mrs. Hogg’s 3rd grade class at St. Mary’s in Natchitoches to create fleur de lis canvas paintings with the students. The students integrated art in their literature lesson on Louis Armstrong. Pictured are:
and
.
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SACRED HEART SCHOOL STATIONS OF THE CROSS. Sacred Heart School’s 8th grade portrayed “The Living Stations of the Cross” on March 22. (Above) Weeping Women: mourn for Jesus along the way. (Below) Simon Carries the Cross: , the guard; , carries the cross; , Jesus; and as St. Veronica (Wiping the Face of Jesus). Others who participated include
, and
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ST. JAMES CONFIRMATION CLASS. Confirmation candidates from St. James Memorial Catholic Church presented a program called “Saints Alive” loosely based on the EWTN program. The candidates portrayed their chosen saint for Confirmation on March 2. Pictured are (front row) , St. Michael the Archangel; , St. Elizabeth Ann Seton; St. Theresa of Avila; and , St. Rita. Row 2: , instructor; , St. Peter; , St. Gregory the Great; , St. Frances Xavier Cabrini; , St. Christopher; and Father Remigius Owuamanam, pastor.
.
ST. MARY’S (Natchitoches) STATIONS OF THE CROSS. The students of St. Mary’s School in Natchitoches participated in the Stations of the Cross recently. Mr. and Miss SMH, , narrated the events while students from all grades played various roles. The Stations of the Cross take us through 14 incidents during Jesus’ passage from Pilate’s house to his crucifixion at Calvary. It’s time for
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Pope Francis and the Youth
ST. JAMES CONFIRMATION CANDIDATES. St. James candidates for Confirmation served at the Manna House recently as part of their formation. Pictured are and .
MENARD SENIOR BETA CLUB. Holy Savior Menard’s Senior Beta Club competed in group talent at the State Senior Beta Convention in Lafayette. Members competed with an original composition called “Bop”. They used common items like trash cans, buckets, saw horses, hammers, and made music come alive. The group placed 1st and will represent Louisiana at the National Senior Beta Convention to be held in Mobile, Ala. in June. Pictured are and , and .
TWO ‘POPES’ FROM ONE FAMILY. Hope and Gene , parishioners at St. Frances Cabrini Church in Alexandria, are feeling very special these days. Both of their sons bear the names of popes. (pictured at left) holds the Church Today newspaper bearing the name of newly-elected Pope Francis. (at right) holds a 2005 issue of the Church Today, after the death of Pope John Paul II. “We’re so excited,” said Hope. “I mean, what are the odds of having both of your sons bear the name of recent popes!”
LSU-ALEXANDRIA STUDENTS WATCH POPE ELECTION. Father Blake Deshautelle and some of the students at the LSU-A CSO Center were glued to the TV March 13 when it was announced that a new pope had been elected. “It was an exciting time for the students,” said Lynn Ray, coordinator of Campus Ministries. “At a time when the whole world was watching the Catholic Church, it was a time to be proud to be a Catholic. We talked a lot about the election process and the succession of popes. I think they learned a lot about their faith and how a pope is elected.”
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Do You Know the Five Steps to a Safer Environment for Children? The Diocese of Alexandria mandates that all adults, (employees & volunteers) who work with children and youth in our parishes, schools, programs, and St. Mary’s Residential Training Facility, must undergo not only a background check, but also must attend the VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children™ child abuse awareness and prevention training. The training details five steps to prevent child sexual abuse: Recognize the warning signs of an inappropriate relationship with a child. 1. Know the warning signs! 2. Control access to children by carefully selecting the adults who work with children and youth. 3. Monitor all programs for the safety of children and youth. 4. Be aware of and sensitive to what is going on in the lives of children. 5. Communicate concerns to the appropriate person in authority. For more information, call Pam Delrie, Safe Environment coordinator at 318-445-6424 x 213.
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Safe Environment program -- Is it working? Church has made strides in protecting children; still more to do What has the Catholic Church done to effectively respond to sexual abuse by church personnel? The Catholic Church has worked hard to protect children. Much has been done but more needs to be done. Until child sexual abuse is no longer a part of society, the Church will continue its efforts to stop it. The Catholic Church has done more to protect children than almost any other organization in the United States. Consider: l Safe Environment training is taking place in 193 dioceses of the country. Over 2 million adults have been trained to recognize the behavior of offenders and what to do about it. l Over 5 million children have
been equipped with the skills to help them protect themselves from abuse. l Background checks are conducted on Church personnel who have regular contact with children. Over 2 million volunteers and employees; 52,000 clerics; 6,205 candidates for ordination have had their backgrounds evaluated. l All dioceses have Codes of Conduct spelling out what is acceptable behavior. This serves to let people know what can and cannot be done as well as letting others know what behavior can
be expected. It encourages the reporting of suspicious behavior. l All dioceses/eparchies have Victim Assistance Coordinators, assuring victims that they will be heard. In 2011, $6,142,810 was spent on therapy for the victims of clergy sexual abuse. l In addition at least $30,129,584 was spent for child protection efforts such as training programs and background checks. l All dioceses/eparchies have Safe Environment Coordinators who assure the ongoing compliance to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young
People. l Bishops are meeting with victims. l There is a Zero Tolerance policy on abusers since 2002. When even a single act of sexual abuse by a priest or deacon is admitted or is established after an appropriate process in accord with canon law, the offending priest or deacon will be removed permanently from ecclesiastical ministry. l Dioceses/eparchies require intensive background screening as well as psychological testing for those wishing to enter the seminary.
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Call Ms. Mary Girard at (318) 623-3804 or via the Diocesan HOTLINE at (318) 445-1427 ALSO, call your Local Law Enforcement Agency Additional Information & Resources: Louisiana Child Abuse Hotline: 1-855-452-5437 Prevent Child Abuse – Louisiana: www.pcal.org U. S. Conference of Catholic Bishops--Office of Child & Youth Protection: www.usccb.org/ocyp Diocesan Victims Assistance Coordinator Ms. Mary Girard (318) 623-3804 or (318) 445-1427 Safe Environment Coordinator Mrs. Pamela Aymond Delrie (318) 445-6424 x 213
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Group works with parishes to increase weekly collections Six parishes in the Diocese of Alexandria that worked with a full-service fund-raising consulting group to strengthen revenue strategies, saw an average of a 30 percent increase in weekly collections. According to Ann Masden, director of Development, in the fall of 2012, the Diocese of Alexandria engaged Changing Our World, Inc. to lead a parish-focused effort in several churches in the Diocese. The goal in each parish was three-fold: increase weekly collections; with each parish’s lay leadership, educate parishioners on the financial standing of their parishes and on taking ownership as its stewards; and register more parishioners to use offertory envelopes. Electronic giving was promoted at the parishes who already utilize this form of giving. Changing Our World conducted individualized, tailored six-week programs in each parish. The project has success-
fully increased the parish collections by an average of 30%. The average response rate among the participating parishes was 17%. These responses are expected to generate more than $500,000 in additional revenues collectively. “We were very pleased with the increased offertory program that was implemented at Our Lady of Prompt Succor parish,” said Fr. Dan O’Connor, pastor. “By working closely with the professional consultant at Changing Our World and following its parishfocused effort, we experienced an increase in our weekly collections.” Changing Our World plans to remain in contact with these parishes so that these initial increases can be maintained and will assist with a renewal effort later this year to seek additional participants. The initiative was facilitated by the Diocese of Alexandria Development Office.
MENARD TO PRESENT GODSPELL -- APRIL 18-20. (center) portrays Jesus in the modern day portrayal of the Passion. Godspell, Menard’s 14th musical under the direction of Cherise Rino, will be held April 18-20 at the Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center in Alexandria. Tickets are $10 MENARD QUIZ BOWL team members and competed at the Louisiana Association of Academic Competition’s State Championship tournament on March 16 at Northwestern State University. The team placed 3rd in their division.
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TERRY MATHEWS DAY AT MENARD. Hundreds of people gathered at Holy Savior Menard March 23 to celebrate “Terry Mathews Day.” Mathews was a 1983 Menard alumni who played 8 years of professional baseball before returning to the school as a volunteer coach and school resource officer. Mathews died suddenly of a heart attack last March. In his honor, Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy declared March 23 as “Terry Mathews Day” and a commemorative plaque was placed at the Menard baseball complex in Mathews’ honor.
ST. MARTIN (Belledeau) KCs and LADIES ALTAR SOCIETY. Members of the Knights of Columbus (Father Molenschot Council) and the Ladies of the Altar Society of St. Martin of Tours Church, accompanied by Father Silverino Kwebuza, pastor, visited the residents of Hessmer Nursing Home Feb. 11. Together, they served cakes and punch to the members of the nursing home, as they have done every year before Lent. Pictured are Lorene Wacker, Kermit Laborde, Marilyn Duet and Father Silverino Kwebuza, A.J.
VIRTUS • April 16 -- St. Joseph Catholic Center, Alexandria, 6 p.m. • April 22 -- Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches, 6 p.m. To register, go to www.virtus.org
BUNKIE CDA COOKS LUNCH TO LSU-A CSO STUDENTS. Members of the Bunkie Catholic Daughters of the Americas, St. Anthony Court 968, prepared and served lunch to LSU-A students in the campus Youth Center on Feb. 28. Organizing and transporting the lunch are shown (from left) Cynthia Dear, Ceil Ferguson, Dot Lacombe and Mary Francis Kincaid.
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CDA COURT BISHOP DESMOND #1459 CONTRIBUTES TO SEMINARY EDUCATION FUND. Gayle Randall (center) presents a check to Bishop Ronald Herzog April 3 for the Seminary Education Fund from Catholic Daughers of the Americas Bishop Desmond Court #1459 from St. Rita Parish. Pictured are (front row) Madeline Jeansonne, Ada Bergeron, Gayle Randall, Bishop Herzog, and Genie Rousseau. Back row: Nancy Hadley, Beryl Cebrynski, Suzanne Medlin, and Pat Despino.
OLL (Fifth Ward) VOLUNTEERS AT MANNA HOUSE. On March 14, during Lent, a group of parishioners from Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Fifth Ward spent a day volunteering at Manna House, where they cooked and served the meal to many people. Pictured are Lynthia Romano, Martha Brigol, Patricia Ussery, Evelyn Cooper, and Gloria Lemoine.
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Millions of viewers watched ‘The Bible’ on the History Channel By Jeannie Petrus CT editor If you did not watch or record the five-part TV series, “The Bible,” every Sunday evening in March, you missed an excellent program. The miniseries’ two-hour cable network premiere was seen by 13.1 million viewers and scored a 3.3 rating among adults 18-49. That’s more viewers and a higher demo rating than any show on the major broadcast networks that night and ranks as cable’s mostwatched entertainment telecast this year. The Bible, however, could not quite top the History Channel’s privious record-setting mini series -- the Hattfieds & McCoys, which had a stunning 13.9 million viewers for its premiere last year. From Genesis to Revelation, these unforgettable stories unfold through live action and cutting-edge computer-generated imagery, offering new insight into famous scenes and iconic characters. Created by producer Mark Burnett and featuring an international cast that includes Roma Downey, this 10-hour docudrama explored the sacred text’s most significant episodes, including Noah’s journey in the ark, the Exodus and the life of Jesus. But realistically speaking, executive producer Mark Bar-
TV
REVIEW Jews are allowed to return to Jerusalem; the Angel Gabriel tells Mary she will bear a child; Joseph takes Mary to Bethlehem for the census, where Jesus is born; the Holy family escapes Herod’s order to kill Bethlehem’s male babies; Judea comes under the ruthless rule of Pilate; John baptizes Jesus, who is now ready to take on his mission–and his revolution. THE BIBLE TV SERIES. Diogo Morgado portrays Jesus in a scene from the television miniseries “The Bible.” Actress Roma Downey and her husband, Mark Burnett, produced the miniseries that ran on cable’s History Channel each Sunday in March. The series is now available for sale on DVD. nett and his wife actress Roma Downey, tackled a very lofty goal of trying to highlight the major stories. Familiar stories about Samuel, Samson, and David were brought to life in a way that made it easy to understand how one followed the other in history. The series is jam-packed with a lot of stories from the Bible that challenge families and church groups to read and discuss the stories in the movie. The series was divided into five 2-hour segments titled:
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Beginnings Noah endures God’s wrath; Abraham reaches the Promised Land but still must prove his faith in God; Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt, and his faith in God is rewarded when the Red Sea parts to allow the Israelites to escape Pharaoh’s chariots; Moses delivers his final message from God–the Ten Commandments. Homeland Joshua conquers Jericho; Delilah betrays Samson as the Israelites battle the Philistines;
Samuel anoints David king, a move that could throw the nation into civil war; Saul is consumed with jealousy when David defeats Goliath; King David ushers in a golden age for Israel, but is soon seduced by power and lust for Bathsheba; God forgives David, and his son, Solomon, builds God’s temple in Jerusalem. Hope The Jews are enslaved in Babylon; Daniel is thrown into the lions’ den, but when his faith endures and God spares him, the
Mission Jesus feeds the crowds in Galilee and brings a dead man, Lazarus, back to life; Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey–a declaration that he is the Messiah; Jesus turns on the money-changers in the Temple; Caiphas coaxes Judas into betraying Jesus; Jesus throws the disciples into turmoil at the Last Supper; Jesus is arrested and condemned to death as the disciples scatter. Passion Peter denies Jesus and Judas hangs himself; the crowd clamors for Jesus’s death; Jesus is crucified, but when Mary Magdalene goes to his tomb, a figure walks towards her–he is back; Jesus commissions the disciples to “go and preach to all creation,” but their godly mission meets with hatred and even death; Paul has a vision and experiences a miraculous change of faith on a journey to Damascus; John receives a revelation–Jesus is coming back, and all who keep the faith will be rewarded.
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Standing Firm Together, a marriage workshop/ retreat presented by Dan Jurek, a professional marriage and family counselor will be held April 26 (6:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.) and April 27 (9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Lafayette. The cost is $195 per couple. This marriage workshop/retreat is designed to help you and your spouse create a strong and healthy Christian marriage that can withstand the tests and trials of a lifetime together. For more info, go to www.paxrenewalcenter.com.
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Strong Foundations: A Marriage Preparation Program for Catholic Couples will host a one-day workshop on Sunday, May 26 at our Lady of Prompt Succor Divine Providence Center in Alexandria from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The presenters for this workshop are Mandi Chapman and Holly Carbo. To register visit www.comprehensivetherapygroup.com or call 318.445.1651. Additional 2013 dates for the Marriage Prep workshop are July 21 & Oct. 20.
(Now thru June 16). An exhibit of Blessed John Paul II, titled “Portrait of Faith: John Paul II in Life and Art” is open now through Sunday, June 16. The exhibit is housed at the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) in City Park in New Orleans. Additional information can be found at www.jpiiinnola.com or by calling toll free 1-866-6084799.
St. Ben’s Golf Tournament St. Joseph Seminary College will host the annual St. Ben Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 2 at the Covington Country Club. For more information, call 1-985-8672234.
Sacred Heart Golf Tournament Sacred Heart School in Moreauville will host its 2nd annual golf tournament on Saturday, May 4 at Tamaka Trails Golf Club in Marksville. The cost for the 4-man scramble is $100 per person. For more information, call
HAPPY BIRTHDAY FATHER PETER KULIGOWSKI. Parishioners of St. Joseph and Waterproof surprised Father Peter Kuligowski March 3 with a party to celebrate his 50th birthday. After Mass, parishioners (as well as friends from Tallulah, Deville, and Baton Rouge) gathered in the rectory for lunch followed by cake and ice cream. Father Peter enjoyed opening presents and blowing out the candles on the cake.
Emile P. Oestriecher, III, CPA
The Women’s Resource Center (Pregnancy Help Medical Clinic) in Natchitoches will sponsor a walk/run on Saturday, May 11 to raise funds and awareness for the clinic. The 1-mile Fun Run is $10 and the 5K Walk/Run is $20. Both will be held on the NSU campus. Family discounts available. To register, call 318-357-8888 or go to www.wrcfriends.com.
The Development Coordinator reports directly to the administrator of the St. Mary’s Residential Training School and is responsible for leading and managing the fund development program, raising funds for the ministry and programs of the facility, and managing all committees involved in fund development activities. Applicant must have a baccalaureate degree or higher, knowledge of fund-raising principles or a willingness to learn them, excellent people, written and verbal communication skills, and ability to organize and prioritize tasks, thoroughness in planning and implementing work, including goals, budget, timetables, and action steps to achieve objectives. To apply, send cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to simon@petrusdevelopment.com.
Job Opening: Secretary to Superintendent 318-985-2772 or email Karen at karenmoreau@kricket. net. All proceeds will go to future plans to build junior high classrooms and a Library/Media Center.
KC BBQ Cook-Off KC Council #2395 of Bunkie will host the 2nd Annual Bayou Boeuf BBQ Cook-Off on Saturday, May 4 at the Haas Auditorium in Bunkie. All great “Backyard BBQ Chef’s” of Avoyelles and surrounding parishes are invited to cook up their best Boston butt, chicken, ribs, bbq sauce and wild game in this community-oriented, charitable event. To participate or to be a sponsor, call 318-308-6171 or 318-201-1252.
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Secretary to School Superintendent. The Diocese of Alexandria has an opening for a secretary in the Office of Catholic Schools. Applicants must be proficient in general office skills, including excellent written and oral communication skills, computer usage, organizational skills, and multi-tasking. The secretary works closely with the superintendent and the eight Catholic schools in the diocese, and serves as a communication liason between the two. Experience in working in a school is helpful. Applications may be picked up at the St. Joseph Catholic Center, 4400 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria or resumes emailed to troque@diocesealex.org. Applications and/or resumes will be accepted through May 3.
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April - May Monday
Tuesday
15
Wednesday
16
VIRTUS Training 6:00 p.m. St. Joseph Catholic Center, Alexandria
Thursday
17
Friday
18
Saturday
19
Sunday
20
21
Holy Savior Menard Presents “Godspell” -- Coughlin Saunders, Alexandria PRAY FOR FR. R. HUMPHRIES
22
VIRTUS Training 6:00 p.m. Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Natchitoches
PRAY FOR FR. B. IBE
PRAY FOR FR. H. IMAMSHAH
23
PRAY FOR FR. K. ISHMAEL
24
25
PRAY FOR FR. G. KROSFIELD
PRAY FOR FR. P. KULIGOWSKI
26
PRAY FOR FR. P. KUNNUMPURAM
27
28
Marriage Workshop -- Lafayette PRAY FOR FR. S. KWEBUZA
29
PRAY FOR FR. M. LAIRD
30
PRAY FOR FR. R. LEMOINE
MAY
1
PRAY FOR FR. R. MATHEWS
PRAY FOR FR. C. MAURICIO
2
3
St. Ben Golf Tournament Covington, LA An Evening with Elizabeth Smart 6:30 p.m. Lafayette, LA
PRAY FOR FR. A. MESSINA
PRAY FOR FR. J. MICHALCHUK
6
7
PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG
8
PRAY FOR FR. J. MEDINA-CRUZ
Sacred Heart School Golf Tournament Marksville
PRAY FOR FR. L. MELCHER
4
5
KC BBQ Cook-off Haas Auditorium, Bunkie
PRAY FOR FR. K. MICHIELS
9
FIRST FRIDAY
PRAY FOR FR. B. MILLER
10
FIRST SATURDAY
PRAY FOR FR. J. MONTALBANO
11
WRC Run, Baby, Run Natchitoches
PRAY FOR FR. C. MORGAN
Baccalaureate:
12
St. Mary’s School, 9 a.m. Immaculate Conception Holy Savior Menard, 7:30 p.m, St. Francis Xavier Cathedral MOTHERS’ DAY
PRAY FOR FR. P. NADAMKUZHY
13
PRAY FOR FR. C. OGBONNA
PRAY FOR FR. C. NAYAK
14
Graduation: Holy Savior Menard 7:30 p.m. Guinn Auditorium, LC Campus, Pineville
PRAY FOR FR. W. OKOT
PRAY FOR FR. J. NELLIKUNNEL
15
Graduation: St. Mary’s School 7:00 p.m. St. Mary’s School Gym Natchitoches
PRAY FOR FR. R. OWUAMANAM
PRAY FOR FR. M. NOEL
16
Graduation St. Joseph School 7:00 p.m. Mater Dolorosa Church Plaucheville
PRAY FOR FR. J. PALATHARA
PRAY FOR FR. K. OBIEKWE
17
PRAY FOR FR. B. PALLIPPARAMBIL
PRAY FOR FR. J. O’BRIEN
18
PRAY FOR FR. J. PALLIPURATH
PRAY FOR FR. D. O’CONNOR
19
PRAY FOR FR. J. PARDUE