The Church Today, April 23, 2012

CHURCH Volume XLII, No. 4

www.diocesealex.org

ON THE

INSIDE Bishops call Catholics to action during Fortnight for Freedom June 21-July 4 The U.S. bishops have issued a call to action to defend religious liberty and urged laity to work to protect the First Freedom of the Bill of Rights. The bishops called for “A Fortnight for Freedom,” the two-week period from June 21 to July 4—beginning with the feasts of St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher and ending with Independence Day—to focus “all the energies the Catholic community can muster” for religious liberty. See page 3.

TODAY

Serving the Diocese of Alexandria, Louisiana Since 1970

April 23, 2012

Active Catholic Youth Groups The Church reaches out to catechize today's youth

Sr. Nell Murray celebrates 60th anniversary Sister Nell Murray was only 19 years old when she left Ireland to come to the United States to become a Marianite of the Holy Cross. That was 60 years ago and Sister Nell says she has had a very happy fulfilling life as a Marianite sister. See page 6.

ATTENDING ABBEY YOUTH FEST. Students from St. John the Baptist Church in Deville visit St. Joseph Abbey in St. Benedict, La., while attending the Abbey Youth Fest March 9-10 in Covington. Youth group members who atteded are and chaperones Anne Sanson, Loretta Reed, John Deville, and Jamie Cole. More on pgs 16-17.

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CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

Supreme Court deliberates over constitutionality of HHS mandate As SC deliberates, fans, foes of health reform law prepare for outcome WASHINGTON (CNS) -As justices of the U.S. Supreme Court begin deliberations on four questions about the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, efforts will continue to reverse elements of the health reform law related to religious freedom and abortion that many find problematic.

Both those who support the law and those who oppose it "should be preparing both for the possibility that the law will be invalidated and for the possibility that the law will be upheld," said Richard W. Garnett, a professor of law and associate dean at the University of Notre Dame Law School in Indiana.

"I'm sure that people in the relevant industries are doing exactly that," he told Catholic News Service.

Noting that various parts of the law take effect over the next few years, unless the entire law is overturned, Garnett said compliance with all the elements of the 906-page law will take "lots of work." Specific regulations for some aspects of the law -- such as the Department of Health and Human Services' contraceptive mandate -- are still being worked out, he added.

It's possible that the Supreme

SIX OF THE NINE SUPREME COURT JUSTICES ARE CATHOLIC. Pictured clockwise are the six Catholic U.S. Supreme Court justices. Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, Justice Antonin Scalia, Justice Clarence Thomas, Justice Samuel Alito Jr. and Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

(CNS photo/Reuters)

Court's decision has already been made, although the court is not likely to publicize its opinions until late June.

Robert Langran, a professor of political science at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, described the process by which the high court will reach decisions on the four health care-related questions facing it: -- Does the Anti-Injunction

Act, which says no tax can be challenged before it takes effect, preclude court action on the Affordable Care Act at this time?

-- Does Congress have the power to force Americans to buy health insurance?

-- If the individual mandate is overturned, can other sections of the law remain in effect?

-- Can Congress require states to expand their Medicaid

programs?

After three days of oral arguments March 26-28, the high court met in conference March 30 to discuss recently heard cases and take preliminary votes. After each justice expresses an opinion, beginning with Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and proceeding by seniority down to Justice Elena Kagan, Roberts assigns the writing of majority opinions and "anyone who wants to" can draft dissenting or concurring opinions, Langran said.

The draft is then circulated among the justices, who might change their minds or ask a fellow justice to tweak this or that section of an opinion in order to gain his or her full support.

Langran, an expert in the workings of the Supreme Court, told CNS he expects the process to last until the last day of the court's 2011-12 session, scheduled for June 25. He also expects Justice Anthony M. Kennedy to provide the key votes on the individual mandate and on whether the rest of the law can stand if the mandate falls.

If the law is upheld as a whole or in part, it still faces other lawsuits contending that the contraceptive mandate violates

First Amendment protections of religious freedom. Separate suits have been brought by some state attorneys general, by Catholic colleges and organizations and by a Catholic business owner who does not want to provide contraceptives to his employees.

Frank R. O'Brien, chairman of O'Brien Industrial Holdings LLC, a St. Louis-based holding company that owns a number of businesses that mine and process refractory and ceramic raw materials, says a requirement that he provide contraceptives and sterilizations free of charge to his 87 employers violates his conscience rights.

"The HHS mandate tells people like Frank O'Brien that they have to choose between conducting their business in a manner consistent with their moral values, or conducting their business in a manner consistent with the government's values," said Francis J. Manion, senior counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice, which is representing O'Brien. "The Constitution does not allow the government to impose such a choice."

See SUPREME COURT, pg 10

APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

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US bishops issue call to action to defend religious liberty Bishops ask laity to focus all energies June 21 - July 4 to defend religious liberty CNS -The U.S. bishops have issued a call to action to defend religious liberty and urged laity to work to protect the First Freedom of the Bill of Rights.

They outlined their position in “Our First, Most Cherished Freedom.”

The document was developed by the Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), approved for publication by the USCCB Administrative Committee March 13, and published in English and Spanish April 12.

The document can be found at http://www.usccb.org/issuesand-action/religious-liberty/ o u r- f i r s t - m o s t - c h e r i s h e d liberty.cfm.

“We have been staunch defenders of religious liberty in the past. We have a solemn duty to discharge that duty today,” the bishops said in the document, “… for religious liberty is under attack, both at home and abroad.”

The document lists concerns that prompt the bishops to act now. Among the concerns are: • The Health and Human Services (HHS) mandate forcing all employers, including religious organizations, to provide and pay for coverage of employees’ contraception, sterilization, and abortion-inducing drugs even when they have moral objections to them. Another concern is HHS’s defining which religious institutions are “religious enough” to merit protection of their religious liberty, Catholic • Driving foster care and adoption services out of business. Boston, San Francisco, the District of Columbia and Illinois have driven local Catholic Charities adoption or foster care services

A Fortnight For Freedom -- June 21-July 4 A two-week period for all Catholics to focus its energies on defending religious liberty. Pastors are asked to lead the flock in prayers. The laity are urged to intensify their prayers and fasting for a new birth of freedom in our country. Join us in an urgent prayer for religious liberty: Almighty God, Father of all nations, For freedom you have set us free in Christ Jesus (Gal 5:1).

We praise and bless you for the gift of religious liberty, the foundation of human rights, justice, and the common good.

Grant to our leaders the wisdom to protect and promote our liberties; By your grace may we have the courage to defend them, for ourselves and for all those who live in this blessed land.

We ask this through the intercession of Mary Immaculate, our patroness, and in the name of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, with whom you live and reign, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

out of business by revoking their licenses, by ending their government contracts, or both— because those Charities refused to place children with same-sex couples or unmarried oppositesex couples who cohabit.

• Discrimination against Catholic humanitarian services.

Despite years of excellent performance by the USCCB’s Migration and Refugee Services in administering contract services for victims of human trafficking, the federal government changed its contract specifications to require USCCB to provide or refer for contraceptive and abortion services in violation of Catholic teaching. Religious institutions should not be disqualified from a government contract based on religious belief, and they do

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not lose their religious identity or liberty upon entering such contracts. Recently a federal court judge in Massachusetts turned religious liberty on its head when he declared that such a disqualification is required by the First Amendment—that the government violates religious liberty by allowing Catholic organizations to participate in contracts in a manner consistent with their beliefs on contraception and abortion.

The statement lists other examples such as laws punishing charity to undocumented immigrants; a proposal to restructure Catholic parish corporations to limit the bishop’s role; and a state university’s excluding a religious student group because it limits leadership

positions to those who share the group’s religion.

Other topics include the history and deep resonance of Catholic and American visions of religious freedom, the recent tactic of reducing freedom of religion to freedom of worship, the distinction between conscientious objection to a just law, and civil disobedience of an unjust law, the primacy of religious freedom among civil liberties, the need for active vigilance in protecting that freedom, and concern for religious liberty among interfaith and ecumenical groups and across partisan lines.

The bishops decry limiting religious freedom to the sanctuary.

“Religious liberty is not only about our ability to go to Mass on Sunday or pray the Rosary

at home. It is about whether we can make our contribution to the common good of all Americans,” they said. “Can we do the good works our faith calls us to do, without having to compromise that very same faith?”

“This is not a Catholic issue.

This is not a Jewish issue. This is not an Orthodox, Mormon, or Muslim issue. It is an American issue,” they said.

The bishops highlighted religious freedom abroad.

“Our obligation at home is to defend religious liberty robustly, but we cannot overlook the much graver plight that religious believers, most of them Christian, face around the world,” they said. “The age of martyrdom has not passed. Assassinations, bombings of churches, torching of orphanages—these are only the most violent attacks Christians have suffered because of their faith in Jesus Christ.

More systematic denials of basic human rights are found in the laws of several countries, and also in acts of persecution by adherents of other faiths.”

The document ends with a call to action.

“What we ask is nothing more than that our God-given right to religious liberty be respected.

We ask nothing less than that the Constitution and laws of the United States, which recognize that right, be respected.” They specifically addressed several groups: the laity, those in public office, heads of Catholic charitable agencies, priests, experts in communication, and urged each to employ the gifts and talents of its members for religious liberty.

The bishops called for “A Fortnight for Freedom,” the two-week period from June 21 to July 4—beginning with the feasts of St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher and ending with Independence Day—to focus “all the energies the Catholic community can muster” for religious liberty. They also asked that, later in the year, the feast of Christ the King be “a day specifically employed by bishops and priests to preach about religious liberty."

PAGE 4 A Blessed Easter to all of you!

There is no question that the Church knows how to celebrate.

The most expressive liturgies of the year take place during the week preceding Easter. This year, thanks to the generosity of the staff at Radio Maria, many more people had access to the ceremonies at the cathedral through the live broadcast of the Chrism Mass and the solemn liturgies on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil. It was a first.

With the Easter Season the time for Confirmation in many of our communities fills my calendar but it is a great occasion to visit the majority of our parishes and missions and to see how well our

CHURCH TODAY ONE IN THE LORD Most Rev. Ronald P. Herzog Bishop of the Diocese of Alexandria

young people have been prepared and take their faith seriously. In the weeks ahead, end-of-school activities will all take center stage and, as in past years, I will take part in the graduation ceremonies of our three Catholic High Schools. Another landmark of spring each year.

After a number of weeks that did not require a lot of travel, the

next few months will make up for it. I won’t list the details but it does make it a little harder to find openings on my calendar for those who desire to meet with me. Deborah, my secretary does a marvelous job of juggling!

If you have been following the media coverage of the HHS mandate, you know that the bishops’ conference continues the fight

APRIL 23, 2012

with the administration in Washington over the issue of religious liberty. It can still make a difference to communicate with our elected officials in the capital to make them aware of your views.

They do listen to their voting constituents.

We are nearing the conclusion of this year’s Diocesan Appeal and the results so far are quite encouraging. It is possible that we will set a new record! Thank you for your gifts. It is not too late if you have not gotten around to it.

In just a few weeks I will have the great joy and privilege of ordaining Charles Ray to the priesthood. Many of you have gotten to know him through his service during seminary years, especially as

a deacon. Please continue to pray for him during these final weeks.

Speaking of deacons… From many comments I have received it is obvious that our newly ordained deacons are becoming familiar with their new ministry and have been doing an excellent job. As one pointed out to me: "I had no idea how much work goes on in a parish." Amen.

May the Easter Season continue to inspire you as you listen to the growth of the early Church in the readings from the Book of Acts.

Evangelization played quiet role in conversion of Doubting Thomas Sometimes we know biblical stories so well we miss the nuances. These nuances often provide valuable spiritual insight.

One such story is that of Doubting Thomas. Jesus appeared to the disciples from behind a locked door and Thomas refused to believe unless, “I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side.”

The nuance that we overlook is that even when Jesus appeared a second time and directly invited Thomas to put his fingers in the nailmarks and his hand in the Lord’s side, Thomas does not do so – at least the text does not say that he did. Rather, Thomas proclaims, “My Lord and my God!” Through the years I have heard, as I am sure many others have, that we are all Doubting Thomas, in one way or another.

True enough. However, which of us would not really doubt that someone had risen from dead?

Likewise, which of us, if told such an incredible story, would not demand physical proof?

Thus, we should not fault Thomas for his empirical approach to the Resurrection.

Many people in the bible had much less to work with yet

We Believe Deacon John Whitehead Diocese of Alexandria followed God with faith. Noah built an ark trusting only in the word of God. Likewise, Abraham set out across desert with only a promise and his trust in God. Sometime even those who had seen, such as Pharaoh, still refused to believe. In the end, we have to accept that the chances are that Jesus simply will not appear to anyone of us and invite us to probe his wounds. If that were the case, faith would be easy.

One way to view this is to remember that a whole week has passed since the other ten reported to Thomas what they witnessed.

It is reasonable to assume that during that week Thomas had many questions and discussed the Lord’s appearance over and over with each of the other apostles.

Moreover, Jesus did not have to appear a second time just for Thomas’ benefit. The spiritual insight comes when we recognize that Jesus did appear the second time -- not for Thomas’ benefit,

but for our benefit.

On the surface, the story tells us it's ok to be a Doubting Thomas – it is a natural reaction to a truly incredible set of circumstances.

But those who believe without seeing, such as Noah and Abraham and even us today, are in line for true blessedness. We should not forget the Lord’s command, the divine commission, to go forth, baptize all nations, and teach the faith.

This is the call to evangelization and that is precisely what went on during that intervening week. The other ten, by their witness, by their love for the Lord, greatly contributed to Thomas’ confession of faith. It is in this way that we admit that we are all Doubting Thomas, but at the same time recognize and accept our call to be true witnesses of Christ and his glorious Resurrection.

CHURCH

TODAY

Volume XLII, No. 4 • April 23, 2012 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.

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APRIL 23, 2012

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First Saturday Devotion started with Our Lady of Fatima in 1921

By Greg Wasson Contributing Writer In his 2010 book Fatima for Today (Ignatius Press), Father Andrew Apostoli does a remarkable job of giving the reader an up-to-date and comprehensive synthesis of the Fatima story. It is a must read for all Catholics.

In his book, Father Apostoli demonstrates the ongoing relevance of the Fatima message for the Church today. It is true that some of the prophecies have already come to pass, still other parts are yet to be realized.

In May 2010, Pope Benedict XVI claimed that there are still elements of the Fatima prophecies that are unfulfilled. In particular he noted that we have not seen the promised Triumph of the Immaculate Heart, which he prayed would occur before 2017, the 100th anniversary of the Apparitions at Fatima.

During the apparition of July 13, 1917 Mary spoke of evils to come but that “in the end, my Immaculate Heart will Triumph”.

She told Lucia that she would return later to make two requests necessary for this Triumph.

Eight years later she appeared and requested the First Saturday Devotion.

Four years after that she appeared again and requested the Consecration of Russia to her Immaculate Heart.

This consecration was accomplished in 1984 by Pope John Paul II. However, the First Saturday Devotion remains as a way for us to help bring about the Fulfillment of the Fatima Mission – The Triumph of the Immaculate Heart.

What do you do on

First Saturday • Go to Confession (8 days before or after, better before, but with this intention) • Receive Communion in a

state of grace

• Say a five-decade rosary • Meditate on the 15

mysteries for 15 minutes

Anyone who has more than a passing familiarity with the apparitions at Fatima knows that the predictions made there had an uncanny accuracy. The Vatican congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in its document The Message of Fatima states, “Fatima is undoubtedly the most prophetic of modern apparitions.”

At Fatima Mary predicted the Russian Revolution, the Second World War and the spread of the errors of communism. There was also a link between the “third secret” of Fatima and the assassination attempt on John Paul II. The first issue that arises when one attempts to discuss Fatima or any other apparition is how does the Church view it. The Church has to approve an apparition in order for it to be “worthy of belief”.

According to Pope Benedict XVI (Verbum Domini), ap-

STATUE OF MARY CARRIED IN PROCESSION AT FATIMA SHRINE. The statue of Our Lady of Fatima is carried through a crowd of pilgrims at the shrine built in her honor in central Portugal. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visit the shrine every year, that marks the place of the first apparition of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children. Lucia dos Santos and her cousins, Francisco and Jacinta Marto, received the first of several visions of Mary May 13, 1917. (CNS photo/Nacho Doce, Reuters) paritions or “private” revelation is “judged by its orientation to Christ himself. If it leads us away from him, then it certainly does not come from the Holy Spirit, who guides us more deeply into the gospel and not away from it…

Ecclesiastical approval of

a private revelation essentially means that its message contains nothing contrary to faith and morals, it is licit to make it public and the faithful are authorized to give it adhesion.

A private revelation can have a prophetic character and can be

a valuable aid for better understanding and living the Gospel at a certain time. Consequently, it should not be treated lightly. It is a help which is offered but, its use is not obligatory.”

The Catechism of the Catholic Church also addresses “private” revelation: “Throughout the ages, there have been so-called “private” revelations, some of which have been recognized by the authority of the Church. They do not belong, however, to the deposit of faith.

It is not their role to improve or complete Christ’s definitive Revelation, but to help live more fully by it in a certain period of history. Guided by the Magesterium of the Church, the sensus fidelium knows how to discern and welcome in these revelations whatever constitutes an authentic call of Christ or his Saints to the Church” (CCC 67).

How are the Fatima apparitions considered in the light of these teachings? The bishop in Fatima who decides such things, “approved” them. That means the faithful are free to believe or not to believe in what took place there. However, given the prophetic accuracy of the messages, it is hard not to believe.

In Crossing the Threshold of Hope, Pope John Paul II expressed his belief in Fatima this way: “And what are we to say of the three children from Fatima? …They could not have invented these predictions. They did not know enough about history or geography, much less about social movements and ideological developments. And nevertheless it happened just as they said.”

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CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

Celebrating 60-year Jubilee!

Irish-born Sister Nell Murray follows dream to America to be a Marianite sister

By Jeannie Petrus CT editor She was only 19 years old when she left her home in Ireland and boarded a ship to come to America. Knowing it may be the last time she would see her parents, brothers and sisters, she still boarded the ship determined to fulfill her dream of becoming a sister in the Marianites of the Holy Cross religious order.

That was 60 years ago and today Sister Nell Murray says she does not regret that decision one bit, as she looks back on her 60year anniversary as a Marianite.

"I have had a very happy, fulfilling life as a Marianite sister and I would not have changed a thing," she said. "It was not always an easy life, but it was always a happy and fulfilling one."

Sister Nell was born in Dunmanway, County Cork, Ireland -- the seventh of eight children born to James and Mary Murray. She attended a public school in Ireland, but the Marianite Sisters of the Holy Cross were always working about in the neighborhood and the Church.

"I always admired what they did," she said.

In 1947, her oldest sister, Mary, decided to begin formation in the Marianites. It was then, Sister Nell said, that her desire to follow in her sister's footsteps and to become a Marianite too, began to grow.

The adventure to becoming a Marianite started when she left her home in Ireland enroute to America. The policy back then was that once a young girl left for formation, she was not allowed to visit her parents for 10 years.

Sister Nell said her parents were very sad to see her leave because they were afraid they might never see her again. But since her sister, Mary, was already a Marianite in America, her parents were willing to make the sacrifice and let her go.

"I was excited to leave Ireland," she said. "I was young and this was a big adventure for me."

But the two-week voyage

Sister Nell after final profession in the "old" habit.

Sister Nell in the mid 60s in the "modified" habit.

Sister Nell, today, is director of religious education at St. Rita.

across the ocean was difficult.

When she arrived in New York, she was among strangers in a new land and was given her postulant dress, which she was to begin wearing immediately.

"Everything that was

comforting and familiar to me was suddenly changed. Everything was new to me and unfamiliar.

But again, I was young and I quickly adapted," she said.

She entered the Marianites of Holy Cross in New Orleans on

Nov. 14, 1952. Once she settled into the convent and began her formation, she had to get used to many rules and regulations, but most of all the climate change.

"In County Cork, the weather was much milder and rainy.

Wearing the postulant habit in the hot humid climate in Louisiana took some getting used to . . . and there was no air conditioning at that time. But I survived," she said with a proud smile.

After two years of formation she made temporary vows. In 1955, after a year of study she began her first teaching job at an elementary school in Opelousas.

A year before she made final vows, her mother passed away.

After her 6th year, she was allowed to go home briefly to see her father, who was very sick.

Leaving to return from that visit

REAL LIFE SISTERS MARY AND SISTER NELL. Sister Nell (right) stands with her real sister, Mary, at the Marianite convent in New Orleans in the late 50s.

was not easy as she realized she may never see her father again.

For the next 12 years, she taught at various elementary schools throughout Louisiana. In 1970 she was named principal of St. Alphonsus in Ocean Springs, Miss. From 1979-1990, she served as principal of St. Edmund in Eunice, and in 1990 she spent a year in Grand Bay, Dominica, West Indies.

It was in 1991 that Sister Nell came to St. Rita Parish in Alexandria as director of Religious Education. She also served as principal of St. Rita School in addition to being DRE. Throughout her teaching career, she worked on her various degrees including a BA in education from Our Lady of Holy Cross College in New Orleans, a masters in education from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas, and a masters in religious education from Loyola University in New Orleans.

Vatican II brought about many changes. One that affected all religious communties was the modification of the religious habit. The Marianite sisters were no exception.

"I remember we wore our old habit for the Christmas Midnight Mass in 1966," she said. "The following day, we attended the Morning Mass in our "modified" habit which included a veil that exposed our hair. I remember the people looking curiously at us as if we were somehow "different" now. That period of time, also took some getting used to."

APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

PAGE 7

2 priests from India incardinated into Diocese of Alexandria

YOUNG BRIDES OF CHRIST. Sister Nell, (first in line) leads the procession of young girls in New Orleans after making temporary vows. The girls, dressed in white dresses and veils, carried the black habits and and the veil that would conceal their hair. See the "old" habit on opposite page.

Sister Nell says she plans to continue her ministry in religious education as long as God gives her the health. She says she gives credit for all the good in her life to her family, her Marianite community and most especially to God. "God has always been there with me, walking beside me and

showing me the way," she said.

"As a Marianite Sister for the past 60 years, many doors have been opened which has provided me with many opportunities to grow and deepen my relationship with God. For all this, I am most grateful and give praise and thanks to God!"

Bishop Ronald Herzog announced the incardination of Father Jose Pallipurath and Father Binochan (Bino) Pallipparambil into the Diocese of Alexandria on April 3.

This means that the two priests no longer belong to a religious order, but are now diocesan priests attached to the Diocese of Alexandria.

Incardination is a legal term in the Latin Church for the attachment of a deacon or priest to his diocese, religious institute or society, personal prelature or (in some cases) secular institute.

Church law forbids "unattached or transient clerics."

A cleric who transfers from one jurisdiction to another must be simultaneously incardinated in the one he transfers to and excardinated from the one he leaves.

"We are both very happy to be officially part of this diocese," said Father Bino.

Father Jose was born in Puthussery, Kerala State, India and ordained on Jan. 6 2001 into the Sylvestro-Benedictine Congregation. He came to the Diocese of Alexandria in 2009 and currently serves as the pastor of St. Genevieve Church in Brouillette.

Father Bino was born in Kannur, Kerela State, India and ordained on Sept. 5, 2002 into the same Sylvestro-Benedictine Congregation. He also came to

NEW DIOCESAN PRIESTS. Congratulations and welcome to Father Jose Pallipurath (left), pastor of St. Genevieve Church in Brouilette and to Father Bino Pallipparambil (right), pastor of St. Louis Church in Glenmora, for recently being incardinated (attached to diocese) as a priest of the Diocese of Alexandria. Bishop Herzog (center) made the announcement April 3 at the Chrism Mass at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. the Diocese in 2009 and currently serves as the pastor of St. Louis Church in Glenmora.

"Becoming incardinated into this diocese was our intention when we first came to this

diocese," said Father Jose. "We want to thank Bishop Herzog for accepted us and for all the work involved in making this happen.

It is a process that took almost three years to complete."

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CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

Citing doctrinal problems, Vatican announces reforms of US nuns' group Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Citing "serious doctrinal problems which affect many in consecrated life," the Vatican announced a major reform of an association of women's religious congregations in the U.S. to ensure their fidelity to Catholic teaching in areas including abortion, euthanasia, women's ordination and homosexuality.

Archbishop J. Peter Sartain of Seattle will provide "review, guidance and approval, where necessary, of the work" of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, the Vatican announced April 18. The archbishop will be assisted by Bishop Leonard P. Blair of Toledo, Ohio, and Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki of Springfield, Ill., and draw on the advice of fellow bishops, women religious and other experts.

The LCWR, a Marylandbased umbrella group that claims about 1,500 leaders of U.S. women's communities as members, represents about 80 percent of the country's 57,000 women religious.

In Silver Spring, Md., the presidency of the LCWR issued a

WOMEN RELIGIOUS, OTHERS ATTEND 40TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT FOR CATHOLIC LOBBY NETWORK Women religious and others attend a 40th anniversary event for Network, the national Catholic social justice lobby, April 14 at Trinity University in Washington. The lobby, which calls itself a "progressive voice," began with a group of women religious in 1972 and continues to advocate for the poor, the marginalized and for peace. The Vatican's doctrinal congregation has called into question the relationship between the Leadership Conference of Women Religious and Network. (CNS photo/Nancy Phelan Wiech ec) statement saying it was "stunned by the conclusions of the doctrinal assessment of LCWR by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Because the leadership of LCWR has the custom of meeting annually with the staff of CDF in Rome and because the conference follows canonically approved statutes,

we were taken by surprise.

The announcement from the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith came in an eight-page "doctrinal assessment," based on an investigation that Bishop Blair began on behalf of the Vatican in April 2008. That investigation led the doctrinal congregation to conclude, in

January 2011, that "the current doctrinal and pastoral situation of LCWR is grave and a matter of serious concern, also given the influence the LCWR exercises on religious congregation in other parts of the world."

Among the areas of concern were some of the most controversial issues of medical

and sexual ethics in America today.

"While there has been a great deal of work on the part of LCWR promoting issues of social justice in harmony with the church's social doctrine, it is silent on the right to life from conception to natural death, a question that is part of the lively public debate about abortion and euthanasia in the United States," the doctrinal congregation said. "Further, issues of crucial importance in the life of the church and society, such as the church's biblical view of family life and human sexuality, are not part of the LCWR agenda in a way that promotes church teaching."

The Vatican also found that "public statements by the LCWR that disagree with or challenge positions taken by the bishops, who are the church's authentic teachers of faith and morals, are not compatible with its purpose."

The Vatican said such deviations from Catholic teaching have provoked a crisis "characterized by a diminution of the fundamental Christological center and focus of religious consecration."

Gallup poll ranks Louisiana as 4th 'most religious' state in nation

By Catholic News Service

(CNS) -- The South is the most religious region of the United States, according to a yearlong poll by Gallup.

Mississippi qualified as the most religious state in the nation, with 59 percent of its residents claiming to be "very religious."

Next on the list was the only nonSouthern state among the top 12: Utah, where 57 percent say they are very religious.

Placing third overall was Alabama, with 56 percent of its residents claiming to be very religious. The only state in the top 12 with a significant Catholic population was Louisiana, ranking fourth in Gallup's poll, with 54 percent in the state saying they are very religious.

Ranking fifth through 12th were Arkansas, South Carolina, Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, Oklahoma, Texas and Kentucky. The percentage of those who said they were very

Top 12 'Most Religious' States 1. Mississippi 2. Utah 3. Alabama 4. Louisiana 5. Arkansas 6. South Carolina 7. Tennessee 8. North Carolina 9. Georgia 10. Oklahoma 11. Texas 12. Kentucky

religious in these states ranged from 54 percent for Arkansas to 47 percent for Kentucky.

The states with the smallest percentages of people who said they were very religious were New Hampshire and Vermont, with 23 percent each. But Vermont had a higher percentage

(58) reporting that they were "nonreligious" than New Hampshire (52); these were the only states where more than half of the population said they were nonreligious.

Just ahead of these two states, those with the least religious population were, in ascending

order, Maine, Massachusetts, Alaska, Oregon, Nevada, Washington, Connecticut, the District of Columbia and New York. The percentages of those who said they were very religious in those states ranged from 25 percent for Maine to 32 percent for New York.

APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

PAGE 9

Nearly all U.S. dioceses in compliance with Safe Environment

By Nancy Frazier O'Brien Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Ten years after passing their "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People," the heads of nearly all U.S. dioceses are in full compliance with the 17-point document, according to recently completed audits.

Two dioceses -- Baker, Ore., and Lincoln, Neb. -- and six Eastern Catholic eparchies refused to participate in the audits, as they had in past years, and were found to be noncompliant.

In dioceses where the audits took place, however, only one diocese was found in noncompliance with one article of the charter. The Diocese of

Shreveport, La., was found to be noncompliant because its diocesan review board had not met in two years.

The diocese had not "experienced any charter-related violations in at least four years," and the board was immediately convened when the diocese was notified of the gap, according to the report from StoneBridge Business Partners of Rochester, N.Y. StoneBridge conducted the audits for the first time in the year ending June 30, 2011. Earlier audits had been carried out by the Gavin Group of Boston.

The 2011 annual report on implementation of the charter was published April 10 by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

"As we were introduced to

the various dioceses/eparchies around the country this year, we were impressed by the dedication of the safe environment coordinators and other diocesan and eparchial representatives who oversee the implementation of the charter on a daily basis," said James J. Marasco, director of StoneBridge Business Partners.

"It is our hope that with our help, the Catholic Church in the United States may continue to restore the trust of the faithful and heal the wounds caused by abuse," he added.

Marasco noted in his letter that the bishops had updated the charter for 2012 to include child pornography and abuse against vulnerable adults as violations.

"It is important for everyone

in the dioceses and eparchies to be made aware of these changes so that safe environment programs can be modified accordingly," he said. "The ability to remain fluid and open to suggestion are key attributes in building and maintaining a strong system."

Two dozen dioceses or archdioceses also agreed to audits at the parish level, which uncovered some inconsistencies in where and how records are maintained on such matters as background checks and safe environment training for employees and volunteers and training for children, the report said.

The audit teams found that dioceses "in quite a few states" were relying on local

public schools to provide safe environment training for children, without confirming that the training was actually taking place or that the programs were in accord with Catholic moral teaching.

The report said more than 99 percent of priests, deacons and Catholic school educators had received safe environment training, as had 98.6 percent of candidates for ordination, more than 96 percent of church employees and volunteers and 94.3 percent of children attending Catholic schools or parish religious education programs.

Under canon law, dioceses and eparchies cannot be required to participate in the audit, but it is strongly recommended.

Diocese of Alexandria given 'full compliance' status on charter After an audit in 2011, the StoneBridge Business Partners of Rochester N.Y. has given the Diocese of Alexandria a "full compliance status on the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

The report cited that the Diocese of Alexandria adheres to all 17-points in the document that was created by the USCCB as a way to address past, current and future occurrences of child abuse.

The Diocese of Alexandria created the Office of Safe Environment in 2003, when it began implementing the program.

"Since the implementation of the program, the Diocese of Alexandria has had no allegations of child abuse by clergy that occurred between 2003-2011," she said. "Any allegations reported during that time, allegedly occured prior to 2003.

Some of the progress made by the Office of Safe Enviroment

includes: • conducted criminal background checks on all clergy, religious, lay employees and volunteers of the diocese. Since the establishment of the Safe Environment Office, the diocese has background checked more than 4,600 adults.

• provided education and training for clergy, religious, employees and volunteers through a 3-hour program (Virtus Protecting God's Children for Adults). More than 4,900 have received certification through this program.

• provided education and training to more than 10,000 children in recognizing possible signs, gaining awareness of uncomfortable or dangerous situations, and how protect themselves through the Virtus Touching Safety Program for Children.

• experienced benefits of the

Virtus program by reports from children who revealed that they were in abusive situations in their homes or neighborhoods, allowing responsible adults to inform parents and authorities.

• provided education and training for facilitators to teach the Virtus program to other adults. There are currently 12 active volunteer facilitators in the diocese.

"Children need to know how to recognize that they may be in a possible abusive relationship or situation, and that it is OK to tell a trusted adult," said Pam Delrie, coordinator of Safe Environment.

"That is why it is so important that we strictly implement this program."

"We have many good and faithful priests in the diocese who have suffered greatly because of the sins of those who have abused children," said Mary Girard, victims assistance coordinator

8-year statistics of

Virtus Safe Environment Program Diocese of Alexandria

Number of abuses the occurred between 2003-2011

0

Number of background checks on adults

4,600

Number of adults certified in Safe Environment

4,900

Number of children who received Safe Environment training

10,000

for the diocese. "They have been victimized themselves. We are greatly indebted to the priests who have remained faithful to the calling and continue to be good shepherds to their parishioners."

For more information, go to www.diocesealex.org/safe-

environment or to the USCCB website for the Child and Youth Protection 2011 annual report at http://www.usccb.org/issuesand-action/child-and-youthprotection/upload/2011-annualreport.pdf

Avoyelles Parish Businesses

Advertise in The Church Today Contact Carla Moreau 318-346-7829

PAGE 10

CHURCH TODAY

Supreme Court

Deacon Charles Ray to be ordained May 26 at SFXC

From page 2 Meanwhile, Catholics and others continued to pressure Congress to provide a legislative remedy to the contraceptive mandate. More than 700,000 messages have been sent to members of Congress through a link on the National Committee for a Human Life Amendment's website, according to executive director Mike Taylor.

The messages urge Congress to pass the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act, which would allow church-affiliated organizations, including Catholic charities, hospitals, schools and universities, to opt out of coverage of contraception and sterilization and would extend exemptions to any nonreligious employer with a moral objection to such coverage.

The Senate voted March 1 to table the legislation, and its revival before the November elections is considered unlikely.

"In a way, the writing of the law is an ongoing process, even as we now wait to learn whether the law, in whole or in part, is unconstitutional," said Notre Dame's Garnett.

A survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation in March found that more than half of Americans (51 percent) believe the Supreme Court will find the individual mandate unconstitutional, while 26 percent think it will be judged constitutional and 21 percent said they did not know enough to say.

The margin of error for the survey was plus or minus 4 percentage points.

Langran of Villanova predicted that "the mandate will be pitched and the rest of the law will survive." But he acknowledged that "there's nothing much anyone can do but wait."

Reach Your Catholic neighbors directly.

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APRIL 23, 2012

Deacon Charles Ray will receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders on Saturday, May 26 at 10 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Alexandria. A reception will follow immediately in Xavier Hall. The public is invited to attend.

His first Mass will be held Sunday, May 27 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral.

Deacon Charles is the son of Rod and Anita Ray of Sts. Francis and Anne parish in Kolin.

Before he entered seminary, he was 4th grade teacher at Pineville Elementary.

He was at one time, a cohost with Dale dePerrodil of a Radio Maria program titled Friday Night Revival.

In the fall of 2006, he

Deacon Charles Ray entered the seminary at the Pontifical College Josephinum at Columbus OH. He was ordained a transitional deacon on May 21, 2011 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral.

Seminary Burses ST. JOSEPH STATUE DEDICATED AT ST. JOSEPH CHURCH (Cheneyville). Fr. Scott Chemino, VG, pastor of St. Joseph Church in Cheneyville, stands next to the statue of St. Joseph, the patron saint of the parish, that was dedicated on March 19, the feast day of St. Joseph. The 5-foot marble statue was a gift by the family of Nicholas and Josephine Parrino, who were devoted members of St. Joseph parish.

March Knights of Columbus Council 9217. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$10.00 Fr. Adrian Molenschot Burse Mr. and Mrs. Rodrick B. Broussard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50.00 Msgr. Milburn Broussard Burse Lewis O. Lauve. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.00 Fr. Bernard Zagst Burse CDA Court Bishop Greco 2072. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.00 Bishop Greco Burse CDA Court Bishop Greco 2072. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.00 Msgr Henry Beckers Burse Dr. Joseph Landreneau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Msgr. Henry Beckers Burse St. Frances Cabrini Sanctuary Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Fr. Bernard Zagst Burse Lucille D. Couvillion . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Msgr Mozart Pelletier Burse Angeo R. D'Angelo . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000.00 Angelo R. and Ena F. D'Angelo Burse Ms Geraldine B. Deptula. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000.00 Fr. Bruce Miller Burse Anonymous . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$4,000.00 Fr. Dan Corkery Burse Total this month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$6,510.00 A Seminary Burse is an invested sum of money, the interest of which is used in perpetuity to help fund the education of men to the priesthood. A Seminary Burse may be named for anyone – bishop, priest, religious, or lay person – by the original donor, and can be added to and allowed to grow. A burse is completed when it reaches $15,000.00 but another burse of the same name can be started. Contributions to any of the burses or to establish a new burse should be sent to the Chancery Office, P. O. Box 7417, Alexandria, Louisiana 71306-0417.

Very Rev. Stephen Scott Chemino, Chairman

APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

PAGE 11

St. Augustine Food Pantry receives $2,500 grant from Monsanto Tom Albritton, representing Monsanto Company Fund, presented a check for $2,500 to the St. Augustine Food Pantry on March 21, thanks to the efforts of James Philen, a local farmer and parishioner at St. Augustine Church in Isle Brevelle, La. The $2,500 will be used by the St. Augustine Food Pantry to buy meat and other food items currently not available in the monthly food boxes distributed monthly to low-income seniors in the Central Louisiana area.

“We are very grateful to Mr. Philen for applying for the grant and to the Monsanto Fund for this generous gift,” said Van Lacour, who, with his wife Brenda, comanages the St. Augustine Food Pantry. “With these funds, we can purchase fresh meat and veg-

etables to supplement the canned and dry goods we pack for our patrons each month.”

Philen learned of the Monsanto Funds America’s Farmers Growing Communities program, which supports rural farming communities in need. The Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of the Monsanto Company, expanded the program in 2001, after two successful pilots, and expects to contribute more than $3 million in approximately 1,200 counties across 38 U.S. states.

Philen applied for the grant and named St. Augustine (his parish) as the recipient, since only nonprofit organizations can receive the grant.

“The St. Augustine Food Pantry wishes to thank James Philen and the Monsanto Fund

ST. AUGUSTINE FOOD PANTRY. Tom Albritton (far left), representing Monsanto Company Fund, and James Philen, a local farmer and member of St. Augustine parish, presents a check for $2,500 to the volunteers of the St. Augustine Food Pantry. Volunteers pictured are (from left) Tom Albritton, Henry and Lucy Metoyer, Cara Metoyer, Brenda and Van Lacour, James Rachal, Father Jacob Thomas, Elizabeth Metoyer, and James Philen. for this generous gift,” said Father Jacob Thomas, pastor of St. Augustine Church. “This will benefit the low-income people of our area very much.”

The St. Augustine Food Pantry started almost 20 years ago by St. Augustine Church volunteers.

It was established to provide food for low-income seniors, the disabled, and families or adults in the southern Natchitoches com-

munities. All recipients must meet federal guidelines, based on household income.

“We have also provided food for people in emergency situations, for instance, if someone’s house burns down,” said Brenda.

Normally, most food for the Pantry is provided by the Food Bank of Central Louisiana and consists primarily of canned foods, dried beans, rice, grits,

sugar, cereal and flour commodities. Peggy Braxton, owner of Curves in Natchitoches and also a St. Augustine parishioner, is also a big supplier of food for the Pantry through an annual volunteer collection program from Curves members.

“At one time, the Pantry received meat products such as chicken and pork, but due to state budget cuts, meats have been deleted from our distribution,” said Lacour.“ For the most part, personal hygiene and other essential household items are rarely available. With this money, we will be able to provide more of these essential items.”

The Food Pantry serves 32 individuals and 15 families in the rural parts of the Natchitoches area.

Volunteers like Henry and Lucy Metoyer, Cara Metoyer, and James Rachal assist the Lacours each month with packing and distributing the food to their area neighbors in need. “We could not do this ministry without the help of our volunteers,” said Lacour.

“The Food Pantry is a wonderful ministry that the people here at St. Augustine have maintained on their own for such a long time,” said Father Thomas.

Anyone in the Natchitoches area who thinks they may qualify for the Food Pantry distribution, should call St. Augustine Church at 318-379-2521.

PAGE 12

CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

ST. PETER CHURCH, Elmer, EASTER SACK RACES. Children at St. Peter Church in Elmer line up for the Bunny Hop race. The kids participated in several games including an Easter Egg Hunt.

ST. GENEVIEVE, Brouillette, EASTER EVENT. Fr. Jose Pallipurath, pastor of St. Genevieve Church in Brouillette hangs out with the kids who participated in the Easter Event held March 31 at the Church.

OLPS PASSION PLAY. The 1st graders at Our Lady of Prompt Succor School in Alexandria presented the annual Passion Play on April 4.

Father Dan O'Connor (playing the part of Jesus) carries the cross while the Roman soldiers escort him.

APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

PAGE 13

EASTER BONNETS AT ST. PATRICK CHURCH, Ferriday. The ladies of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Ferriday surprised Father Louis Sklar on Easter Sunday by wearing Easter hats to Mass. Pictured are 1st row: Â Anna Clayton.

2nd row: Sandra Ruble, Jeri Pierce, Mary Creighton, Anna Lisa Washington, Mel Shaidnagle, Cindy Galloway, Sweetie Perkins, Dorothy Perkins, Margie Vogt, Ann, Elders, Kay Young. Top row: Iris Marrioneaux, Deacon Bill Shaidnagle, Fr. Louis Sklar, Suzanne Vegas, Judy Quimby.

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH, Marksville, EASTER EGG HUNT. Father Rusty Rabalais, pastor of St. Joseph Church in Marksville, and Father Abraham Varghese, associate pastor, take a group picture with the children who participated in annual Easter Egg Hunt.

ST. JOSEPH, Marksville, EASTER GAMES. Father Abraham Varghese races to the finish line during the sack race held March 31 at St. Joseph Church in Marksville. As you can see, Father Abraham came in second place.

Other games such as duck pond, bean bag toss, and an Easter egg hunt, were all part of the fun.

EASTER SUNRISE MASS AT HOLY ROSARY MISSION, Emmanuel.

Father Kenneth Obiekwe, pastor of Holy Rosary Mission in Emmanuel, celebrated an early Easter Sunrise Mass on Easter Sunday outdoors before a crowd of about 80 people. The weather was perfect for the beautiful Easter Mass.

ST. JOSEPH, Colfax. Anne Brevelle and Karen Vets of St. Joseph's in Colfax placed flowers Holy Saturday on the graves at Potters Cemetery in Colfax.

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CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

Happy Mother's Day, Mom! What do you love most about your mom?

What I love most about my mom is that she is always on my side, and I am grateful for it.

-- Sebastian

What I love most about my mom is how she takes care of me. She won’t ever let anything happen to me. She feeds me, helps me, and loves me. -- David

What I love most about my mom is how she plays games with me and gives me gifts, especially her love.

-- Cullen

What I love most about my mom is that she loves me and won’t let anything hurt me. I feel so protected.

-- Nicolas

What I love most about my mom is how she cooks me dinner and how kind she is.

I know she will love me forever. -- Owen What I love most about my grandmother is how she takes care of me. She feeds me and loves me. She also helps me with my homework. -- Aspen

WE LOVE YOU MOM! Mrs. Kimberly Ward's 3rd grade class at Our Lady of Prompt Succor School sent in this picture and their feelings about their moms. Pictured are (front row)

What I love most about my mom is that she is funny, fun to be around, and even when she is hurt, she is there for me.

-- Caroline

What I love most about my mom is how happy she makes me. She is the best mom.

She prays with me, listens to me, and has fun with me.

-- Katelyn

What I love most about my mom is how she encourages me and she cooks my favorite supper. She comforts me when I am alone.

-- Chris

What I love most about my mom is how she takes care of my needs and helps me with my homework.

-- Rebecca

What I love most about my mom is how she cares for me. When I feel bad she makes me feel good.

-- Corey

Virtus

Training Sessions Sunday, May 20 2 p.m.

KC Hall in Plaucheville To register, go to www.virtus. org and click on Registration (on left side of screen). For more information, call 318445-6424, ext. 213

.

What I love most about my mom is that she is so loving to me. She also drives me a long way to school so that I can go to a wonderful, safe school. -- Audrey

What I love most about my mom is the way she helps my siblings and when we are injured. She always kisses me every night. She loves me so much!

-- Kendall What I love most about my mom is how she comforts me whenever I am sad. My mom is very nice and loving. My mom is the best mom ever!

-- Olivia What I love most about my mom is how she takes care of me when I am sick.

She also keeps me healthy

by feeding me good food.

Halle What I love most about my mom is how she is always there for me, and she will love me forever.

-- Sadie What I love most about my mom is her love for me and how she gave me life.

-- Catherine

What I love most about my mom is that she helps me when I am hurt, and she will never stop loving me.

-- Eddie What I love most about my mom is how sweet she is. She is also kind. Most importantly, she is the best mom ever!

-- Will What I love most about my mom is the way she cooks and takes care of me. I know she loves me very much. -- Georgia What I love most about my mom is how she is there for me, even when I am sick.

She is always so loving.

-- Hannah

CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

PAGE 15

Blakesley's new CD You Are The Light peaks at #16 on iTunes

By Jeannie Petrus CT editor Josh Blakesley's newest CD, You Are the Light, was released to iTunes in March 2012 peaking at #16 on the Christian and Gospel charts. The single You Are the Light topped the Christian Radio Weekly charts at #4.

Produced by Ed Cash, and published by spiritandsong, a division of ocp (Oregon Catholic Press), You Are the Light is Blakesley's most upbeat tempo CD to date. It includes band members Josh on keyboard, guitar and vocals, with Grae McCullough on electric guitar, Christian Gaudet on bass, and Jacob Johnson on drums.

"I am very happy with the initial success of our newest CD," said Josh. "Having it produced

by Ed Cash gave it a deeper, richer sound. I am proud of the songs, but also the total package as a liturgy resource."

You are the Light is an answer to Pope Benedict XVI's call to "search for the true, the good and the beautiful."

"It is a sacred liturgy resource, or a music CD that can be used by church music ministries at Mass or praise and worship services," he said. "The songs are written specifically for the Liturgy."

The CD and bonus package, that will be available in stores at

You Are the Light Available on iTunes now Will be available end of May at: Mary's Heart Catholic Bookstore Alexandria spiritandsong.com

JOSH BLAKESLEY works in his office at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church in Alexandria, where he is associate director of music. Josh's fourth, and most recent CD You Are The Light, peaked at #16 on iTunes and #4 on the Christian Radio Weekly charts. The CD is expected to be available in stores in May. the end of May, includes not only the CD of seven songs, but also downloadable sheet music for each song and a video on how to play each song., Blakesley also said the songs are written in a way that can be adapted to different types of worship services.

Take, for example, the song That We Might Live.

"That we Might Live is a communion song that is recorded at four minutes," he said. "But in a Mass with hundreds coming up for Communion, the song can be extended to as long as it needs to be, by repeating the chorus."

His music focuses on a true communion with the living God while stressing that blessings really do come to those who

wait on the Lord. He does so through an innovative blend of pop and rock tracks that are truly inspirited.

When asked to pick his favorite song on the CD, he hesitated.

"Asking me to pick a favorite song is like asking to choose a favorite child," he said with a smile. "But if I had to pick ONE of my favorites, I would say All of Me. All of Me addresses those times in our lives when we feel as though we are pulling away from God. But when God draws us back in, we feel His renewed spirit in us. This song (good for the Preparation of Gifts) is a redidication of ourselves back to God." Other songs and their places in the Mass include: Restored -- A Gathering or Preperation of the Gifts song.

God is a healer and restorer

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and makes beauty from ashes.

Includes vocals by Josh, Sarah Hart, and Marc Byrd.

I Will Give Thanks -- A Sending or Closing song. This is a thanksgiving song that he cowrote with Audry Assad, a fellow Gospel artist.

We are Yours -- A Preparation of the Gifts or Gathering song.

This is just a good spiritual song that is inspiring and uplifting.

At the Name -- A Sending song. It is a song of thanksgiving and praise. Includes vocals by Josh and Sarah Hart.

In 2003, Josh released his first solo album, Immersed, which includes original songs written mostly from his experiences in youth and music ministry.

Immersed was followed by his sophomore album Waiting, and by his 3rd album, Free. You Are the Light is his 4th album.

In addition to composing and recording music, Josh has participated in several World Youth Day celebrations including the 1993 Denver event and the 2011 Madrid event. He has led music for over 15 years at various Steubenville Youth Conferences throughout the U.S and has worked extensively as a musician with Life Teen International and Catholic Heart Work Camps.

Currently, Josh serves as assistant music director at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Alexandria, Louisiana where he, his wife Heather and their two children, Sophie and Sutton live. Josh travels many weekends to other parishes throughout the U.S. doing concerts, conducting workshops for musicians, speaking at youth rallies and conferences, and leading praise and worship.

PAGE 16

CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

Breathing New Life into Students have fun learning the faith by

By Jeannie Petrus CT editor Today, in almost every church parish, there are youth programs available to students of every age. To complement the parish programs, the diocese as well as the universal Church, offer exciting opportunities to learn about and experience the faith while having fun and hanging out with friends.

Take for example, the youth group of St. John the Baptist Church in Deville, who recently attended the Abbey Fest at the St. Benedict Abbey in Covington, La. March 9-10. The outdoor festival was held in a field on the St. Benedict campus that accommodated more than 3,000 students. Contemporary Christian rock bands, a candlelight night vigil and Eucharistic Adoration were the highlights for most of the students.

"It was an amazing experience to see so many youth together from different places coming together to worship, said firsttime participant Kasey Sanson.

"The Church was beautiful and Adoration was great. I plan to go next year."

"A great weekend that you get to have Christ with you the whole time," said return participant Kerra Franks. "The music is upbeat and the speakers connected with me on my level.

Adoration was indescribable! I loved it that much! I plan to go back every year!"

Anne Sanson, director of youth ministry at St. John said, "It was an especially exciting weekend for our group and the youth members who were present since one of our participants answered the vocation call."

The event is similar to Steubenville South, the threeday weekend held in June every

year sponsored by the Diocese of Alexandria. More than 5,000 students on the average attend the annual event that is filled with great contemporary music, entertainment, talks, opportunities for confession, and Eucharistic Adoration.

Steubenville South will be held June 22-24 this year at the Rapides Parish Coliseum," said Christina Theriot, director of Religious Formation and Training.

"We invite every young person in grades 9-12 to contact their parish youth group and register for Steubenville. It is a life-changing experience."

For younger students, most parishes offer Catholic Vacation Bible Schools during the summer.

With programs ranging in different areas from a week to two-weeks, and in some parishes a weekend, it is easy for some youth to attend several VBS programs throughout the summer.

LSU-A STUDENTS IN NEW ORLEANS. What was suppose to be a trip to New Orleans for the Louisiana Catholic College Students Conference March 23-25, turned into a relaxing spiritual retreat for these LSU-A students, when the conference was cancelled at the last minute. Above, they visit the St. Louis Cathedral with Father Blake Deshautelle (front and center) LSU-A chaplain and Lynn Ray, (far right) coordinator of LSU-A campus ministry.

ABBEY YOUTH FEST. Hope Thacker and Kasey Sanson, part of the St. John the Baptist Church (Deville) Youth Group, enjoy the beautiful day among other youth groups who attended the Abbey Fest March 9-10 in Covington, La. The weekend included outdoor Christian bands, entertainment, and hanging out with friends.

MELLOWING AT THE MUSHROOM. The group enjoys a meal together at a restaurant with seminarian Daniel Hart, who is studying at St. Joseph Seminary in St. Benedict. Pictured are (from left) Catherine Clopton, Jenny Davis, Kiel Broulliette, Daniel Hart, Father Blake Deshautelle, David Om, Katherine Webb, Carley Wehrle, and Shawn Hobbs.

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APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

PAGE 17

Catholic Youth Programs experiencing life in Catholic youth programs "VBS offers parents with children out of school for the summer, a worthwhile opportunity to have fun, interact with other kids, and learn more about their faith," said Theriot.

March 16-18, more than 50 young adults attended the annual Young Adult Conference at Maryhill Renewal Center in Pineville. Luc Noel, coordinator of the event, said the program attracts young adults (single, married, and engaged couples) to a weekend of spiritual renewal.

"It's a time for young adults to get away for the weekend and contemplate how get and maintain Jesus in their busy hectic lives of work, raising children, and just keeping up with daily responsibilities we all have in our lives," said Noel. "It's a time of reflection, renewal, and

fellowship." Free babysitting is always provided.

Even the college age students are growing more in their faith through the three Catholic Student Organizations at LSUAlexandria, Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, and Louisiana College in Pineville.

Under the direction of Lynn Ray, CSO coordinator at LSUAlexandria, a group of students went to New Orleans March 2325, with the intentions of going to the Louisiana Catholic College Students annual conference.

But when the conference was cancelled at the last minute, the group members (who had already taken off work and made arrangements to go) decided to make it into a spiritual retreat.

The group visited the St. Louis Cathedral, the Aquarium of

the Americas, Cafe du Monde, and St. Joseph's Abbey + Seminary College. One of Alexandria's seminarians, Daniel Hart, who is studying for the priesthood at St. Joseph's Abbey, met up with the group and took them on a tour of the Abbey.

"We had a great time," said Lynn. "Daniel showed us around campus and gave us a tour of the refrectory, where the monks eat.

It is a beautiful place, where a huge painting of the Last Supper is painted on one wall. It was at one time the largest painting of the Last Supper in the world. We were so privileged to have Daniel meet up with us and spend some time with us.

For more information about other youth programs, go to the diocesan website (www. diocesealex.org).

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL. This 2009 photo of a Vacation Bible School at OLPS in Alexandria is typical of the many program offered to elementary school age kids during the summer.

ST.. JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH, Cloutierville RETREAT (above). St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville held a retreat for high school student March 3. The day was filled with fun, music, and fellowship.

S.A.L.T. RETREAT (left). More than 75 teens attended the third and final S.A.L.T (Servants Actively Leading Teens) Spring Retreat held March 10-11 at Maryhill Renewal Center in Pineville. The retreat is for high school teens.

PAGE 18

CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

Parish without a neighborhood attracts students to CCD classes Since St. Francis Xavier Cathedral is located in downtown Alexandria, there is no "neighborhood" (to speak of) that it draws from, yet five classes of CCD students and one class of RCIA candidates are enrolled in the respective programs.

So where do these children and adults who want to know more about the faith, come from?

Father Jim Ferguson, rector of the Cathedral, has actively recruited teachers from the parish and encouraged parents to enroll their children in the CCD programs.

Participants come from all over the local area and each year the class memberships increase.

This year the children are divided into five classes. Children

CCD STUDENTS AT ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHEDRAL.

RCIA CLASS AT ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHEDRAL.

who are in first grade through 12th grade follow a curriculum which gives them a chance to learn about the Catholic Church and prepare to receive the Sacraments. The teachers also

welcomed and encouraged by all the parishioners as they learn about the Catholic Church.

Mary Lou Maples, director of Religious education, said a successful CCD and RCIA

include lessons about the liturgy and the rich traditions and seasons of the church. The teachers make a special effort to involve the families in all aspects of the program. RCIA participants are

program begins with the support and encouragement of the pastor.

"We are fortunate at SFXC to have Fr. Ferguson, who supports the propagation of the faith, and encourages participation."

Alumni of St. Mary, St. Joseph schools in Cloutierville to reunite St. John the Baptist Catholic Church is Cloutierville will host a reunion May 5 for anyone who attended St. Mary or St. Joseph Catholic Schools The reunion will be held in conjunction with the Church's fair, May 5-6.

Alumni are asked to bring old photos and other memorbilia from the school for display.

A group photo will be taken.

Alumni are asked to spread the word to those out of town.

Events will begin May 5 at noon with various lunch dinners available for purchase. The program will start at 1 p.m. at St. Joseph school.

At the request of Bishop Antoine Durier, Mother Florence was asked to start the schools.

In 1888, the pastor at that time promised $200 to the Sisters of Divine Providence to come to Cloutierville to start the schools.

Shortly after the CDP Sisters arrived in June 1889, St. Mary School and St. Joseph School were opened. For the next 75 years, the schools were operated by the CDPs. In May 1965, St. Mary's was closed and in May 1966, St. Joseph's closed.

For more info, call Doris Roge at 318-379-2636 or Martha Conde at 318-379-7050.

ST. MARY SCHOOL AND ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL, both in Cloutierville, were closed in the mid-60s. Alumni of both schools will come together May 5 for a school reunion.

334 Acton Road • Marksville, LA Office Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Available 24-7 Jason Aymond, Manager (318) 240-7188 Affiliated with Kilpatrick Life Insurance Co. since 1932

APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

PAGE 19

Archbishop Aymond announces JPII exhibit in N.O. in 2013

By Peter Finney Jr. Catholic News Service

NEW ORLEANS (CNS) -A major exhibit of the personal effects of Blessed John Paul II, titled "I Have Come to You Again," will open its three-city U.S. tour in the Archdiocese of New Orleans in February 2013, and the exhibit organizer who has handled four previous Vatican exhibits in the United States said he was bracing for record crowds.

Joining Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans April 13 to formally announce the exhibit was Father Malcolm Neyland, a priest of the Diocese of Lubbock, Texas, who also serves as director of the nonprofit National Exhibits Association.

He said he expected a huge turnout because the former pope is such a beloved figure to both Catholics and non-Catholics.

"All I can do is look back at the last four Vatican exhibits, which were frescoes and other types of art and mosaics," Father Neyland said. "Those always brought in 200,000 to 300,000 people. This venue will bring in a lot more because we're dealing with a people's pope, with a person who is very, very loved to this very moment. I would predict at least over 200,000 or 300,000 easily."

The New Orleans exhibit will open Feb. 4, 2013, and run

through early May. It will be housed at Schulte Hall on the campus of Notre Dame Seminary.

The exhibit will move on to the Archdiocese of Seattle from June through August and then to the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., from September through November.

Father Neyland said more than 100 artifacts from the late pope, including a first-class relic -a vial of his blood that was drawn just before his death in 2005 -will be on display. The items will be drawn from Pope John Paul II Center in Krakow, Poland, and from the Vatican collections in Rome. They will include items such as his baby crib, the skis he used in cross-country skiing expeditions, the cassock in which he was ordained, vestments, the Mass kit he used when camping and his desk from Krakow.

The exhibit will be broken down into four time periods: Pope John Paul's childhood and adolescence (1920-38); his years as a laborer, priest, bishop, archbishop and cardinal in Poland (1939-78); his tenure as the first Polish pope (1978-2005); and the years following his death through his beatification on May 1, 2011.

Archbishop Aymond was rector of Notre Dame Seminary in 1987 when Blessed John Paul visited New Orleans and spoke to hundreds of thousands at the Superdome and at an outdoor

NEW ORLEANS ARCHBISHOP, TEXAS PRIEST ANNOUNCE EXHIBIT OF ITEMS FROM LATE POPE WILL OPEN IN NEW ORLEANS NEXT FEBRUARY. New Orleans Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond and Father Malcolm Neyland, a priest of the Diocese of Lubbock, Texas, announce April 13 at a press conference in New Orleans that a major exhibit of Blessed Pope John Paul II's memorabilia will open in the city n ext February. After New Orleans, the exhibit, titled "I Have Come to You Again," will move to Seattle, then Washington, D.C. (CNS photo/Frank J. Methe, Clarion Herald)

Mass at the University of New Orleans.

"It was one of the greatest events in the recent history of the city of New Orleans," Archbishop Aymond said. "He's coming back, but in a different way. This will

be an opportunity for people to have contact with a saintly man, a man who gave his life for the church. There was an attempt on his life. He was a man who led the church as a great prophet, as a great priest and as our universal

shepherd."

There will be a nominal charge for admission -- $8 for adults -- but schoolchildren will be able to attend for free. Tickets were expected to be available beginning April 18 through the National Exhibits Association website, www.nationalexhibits. org.

Additional lighting and temporary walls will be added to Schulte Hall to accommodate the exhibit, but Archbishop Aymond said he did not think it would be a major expense. The archdiocese is seeking sponsors for the exhibit to help the National Exhibits Association with its costs.

Archbishop Aymond said he was working with the New Orleans Police Department to develop plans for traffic and parking in the area around the seminary.

"We looked at other locations, but we were very concerned about affecting the neighborhood," Archbishop Aymond said. "One (location) was in the French Quarter at the Ursuline Convent, but there was a concern about buses getting to it.

I really don't think there will be a problem. We're going to have all that managed through the police department."

Father Neyland said about 200 volunteers would be needed throughout the course of the three-month exhibit.

The

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Imagine having your ad placed in the hands of every young couple planning a Catholic wedding in 13 Central Louisiana parishes for the next 3-5 years! If you offer wedding products or services, you don’t want to miss this opportunity to be part of the Diocese of Alexandria’s comprehensive 72-page, full color, glossy 8.5 X 11 wedding guide that will be distributed free to every Catholic couple planning a wedding.

Want more information? Email: joanferguson@diocesealex.org or call (318) 445-6424,

ext. 264 to request an advertisers packet.

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PAGE 20

CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

Lighthouse Catholic Media offers CDs about Catholic faith Maybe you want to learn more about the faith, and you have good intentions to read a book about Catholicism “one day,” but let’s be realistic: When do you have time?

Lighthouse Catholic Media has come up with the easiest, most time-efficient way to learn about your faith -- informative, entertaining CDs. Lighthouse Catholic Media has produced hundreds of CDs by various speakers and on a wide range of topics that inform, entertain, and inspire people of all ages about the Catholic faith.

Listen to a CD on your way to work, even it is only in 1015 minute increments (or however long it takes you to drive to work). The CDs are usually only 45 minutes to an hour long.

Listen to a CD when you are in the kitchen cooking, or download a CD to your iPod or Smartphone and listen while you are walking, running, or just sitting in a chair “doing nothing.” You can always find a few minutes of your day to listen.

Being convenient and easy to use, however, is not even the best part of Lighthouse Catholic Media -- it’s the content of the CDs. If there is anything you ever wanted to know about the Catholic Church, there’s a CD for that.

From the most basic of topics about Catholicism for the beginner to the deeper theology of the faith, there is a CD for that.

So, how do you know which CD is a “beginner” CD or an especially “good one?” Here are a few guidelines: • Choose CDs by the speaker, not necessarily the title. All of the CDs are good, but some are better than others. Any of the CDs by Dr. Scott Hahn, Matthew

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Some of the Best Lighthouse Catholic Media CDs

Kelly, Stephen Ray, Fr. Larry Richards, Fr. Robert Barron, Tim Staples, Dr. Brant Pitre, or Fr. Francis Peffley are usually “great.” These particular speakers are not only knowledgeable about the faith, but have a gift of speaking that makes the topic entertaining and easy to understand.

• Listen on-line before you buy. Go to www.lighthousecatholic media.org and download some of the many free titles that you can download from the web-

site. If you don’t want to download, they also offer newcomers a free sample CD that they will mail to you. Look for “Free Sample CD Request” on the website.

• Talk to others who have listened to the CDs and ask for their input. Sharing the CDs with others and talking about the content is a good way to explore and digest what is discussed on the CDs. For more information, go to www.lighthousecatholicmedia. org

Diocese of Alexandria • Catholic Schools Office

Principal Opening 2012-2013 School Year St. Mary’s Catholic School, Natchitoches, Louisiana St. Mary’s Catholic School seeks an enthusiastic, dedicated and qualified principal to minister in leadership for a school community of more than 400 students in Grades Pre-K – 12. The successful candidate must be committed to balancing the strong traditions of the 124 year history as a parish school with embracing new and creative opportunities to lead the faculty, students, and parent community to deeper spiritual, academic and social excellence. Ability to collaborate with pastor, parish staff, assistant principal, faculty, and parent body is essential.

Applicants must meet the following criteria: • Practicing Catholic • Masters Degree, Preference of Degree in Education • Minimum of 5 years experience in Education • Preference of Catholic Education • Credentials meeting Non-Public School • Certification for State of Louisiana • Demonstrated Leadership Ability in Education • Availability on or before July 1, 2012 Interested applicants may call Paula Bonneau at (318) 445-6424, ext. 227 for an application packet.

Catholic Schools Office, P.O. Box 7417, Alexandria, LA 71306

Deadline for Application Packet: April 30, 2012 The schools of the Diocese of Alexandria admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

Why a Protest Pastor Became Catholic A Pastor’s Wife’s Journey Home

Dr. Scott Hahn Kimberly Hahn

Discovering the Biblical Significance of Mary The Virgin Mary Revealed Through Scripture

Dr. Scott Hahn Dr. Scott Hahn

The Healing Power of Confession Dr. Scott Hahn Confession Fr. Larry Richards Becoming the Best-Version-of-Yourself

Matthew Kelly

The Bible Made Me Do It

Tim Staples

Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist Understanding the Eucharist

Dr. Brant Pitre Dr. Scott Hahn

The Passion of Christ in Light of the Holy Shroud of Turin

Fr. Francis Peffley

APRIL 23, 2012

CHURCH TODAY

PAGE 21

Survivor of attempted abortion comes to terms in October Baby

By John Mulderig Catholic News Service

NEW YORK (CNS) -- "Every life is beautiful." That's the tagline -- as well as the underlying theme -- of the thoroughly honorable, if not always fully effective, drama "October Baby" (Provident/ Samuel Goldwyn).

After she collapses on stage during the opening night of a college play, freshman Hannah Lawson (Rachel Hendrix) winds up in the hospital and on the receiving end of two pieces of staggering news: She learns first, that her devoted parents -- mom Grace (Jennifer Price) and dad Jacob (John Schneider) -- adopted her as an infant. And second, that she's the survivor of an attempted abortion.

As her doctor explains, the latter fact accounts for the chronic medical problems that have long plagued Hannah and that culminated in her blackout.

Devastated and bewildered by this sudden revelation, Hannah sets out in search of her birth mother, Cindy (Shari Rigby).

She's accompanied on her journey

by Jason (Jason Burkey), her best friend since childhood. He's arranged for them to hitch a ride with a group of fellow students

MOVIE

REVIEW Now Playing at Grand 14 Theatre, Alexandria • Dr. Seuss's The Lorax (PG) • Mirror Mirror (PG) • The Three Stooges (PG) • Hunger Games (PG-13) • Lockout (PG-13) • October Baby (PG-13) • Titanic in 3D (PG-13) • Wrath of the Titans (PG-13) OCTOBER BABY. Jason Burkey and Rachel Hendrix star in a scene from the movie "October Baby." The Motion • Wrath of the Titans in 3D (PG-13) Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. Some mater ial may be inappropriate for • 21 Jump Street (R) children under 13. (CNS photo/Samuel Goldwyn Films) • American Reunion (R) • The Cabin in the Woods (R) who are off to New Orleans for Jason tag along is obviously adherence to Christian sexual Mardi Gras. intended to provide some much- morality, moreover -- she and In their feature debut, needed light relief. But only some Jason share an unspoken but Hannah was almost killed. brothers Andrew and Jon Erwin of the comedy centering on the unmistakable mutual attraction Perhaps in a nod to the vital helm a strongly pro-life message expedition's leader, disheveled -- becomes the occasion for a role Catholics have played in movie whose import viewers but good-hearted B-Mac (Chris mumbled apology rather than the struggle against abortion, an explanation as resolute as her a climactic scene is set in a dedicated to the dignity of all Sligh), works. human beings will welcome Instead of being kept in actions. cathedral explicitly identified as But the Erwins' project Catholic. unanimously. Opinions about the sharp focus, Hannah's potentially aesthetic package in which they poignant vulnerability on does have some undeniable There Hannah, a selfwrap their point, however, may discovering that she was unwanted cinematic assets: The first part identified Baptist, not only seeks be more divided.

-- and that her very existence was of their story, for instance, plays counsel in prayer, but from a The spring break-style treated as disposable by her own out against adeptly shot bucolic kindly priest who happens by. odyssey on which Hannah and mother -- gets diffused amid more backgrounds. And Jasmine Guy The advice he gives her, however, conventional expressions of teen turns in a strong performance as is more evangelical in tone Mary, a retired nurse who once than Catholic; he emphasizes angst and confusion.

Hannah's admirable worked in the abortion mill where an individual relationship with God while at least implicitly downplaying the importance of the church. But there is certainly no direct contradiction of Catholic teaching, and the scene can be viewed as an informal version of confession.

Laudably, the script avoids the temptation to demonize Cindy.

Though she proves unequal to the challenge of Hannah's abrupt reappearance in her life, she's also shown to have gone on to marriage and motherhood as well as to a successful career.

Those determined to be cynical may nonetheless find it a bit pat that Cindy is an urbanite and a lawyer, while Grace and Jacob maintain their red-state values surrounded by the lush pastoral landscape that makes for all that inviting cinematography.

The film is rated PG-13.

PAGE 22

CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

DIOCESAN

BRIEFS

ST MARY'S ASSUMPTION, Cottonport, CDA -- Catholic Daughters Court Padre Pio of St. Mary's Assumption Church in Cottonport prepared a meal recently for the students at the LSUA Catholic Youth Center. Father Blake Deshautelle celebrated a Mass for the group pior to the meal, followed by meal prepared and served by the CDA to the students, faculty and staff of LSUA. Pictured are (front) Geneva Turner and Carolyn Gauthier; and (standing) Melanie Gauthier, Carol Tassin, Kathy Lemoine, Ruth Ducote, Sylvia Armand, Kathleen Gauthier, Sharlene Riche, and Kinta Moreau.

1 Million Rosaries for Unborn Babies

St. Michael the Archangel Organization will once again sponsor the One Million Rosaries for Unborn Babies May 4-6. If you or your church, school, or organization can pledge to say one rosary on one or all of these days (May 4-6), register at saintmichaelthearchangelorganization.org to let them know how many rosaries will be prayed. The goal is to reach 1 million rosaries during those three days.

Whether it is one rosary or 200 rosaries from a school or church, go online to register. Please pray at least one rosary May 4-6 for an end to the surgical and non-surgical killing of unborn human persons.

KC COUNCIL #2395, Bunkie FISH FRY. The Knights of Columbus St. Anthony of Padua Council # 2395 in Bunkie recently held their annual Lenten Fish Fry fundraiser. Pictures are Debbie Coulon, Mike Tanner, Stephen Gremillion, Nick Juneau, Bill Ferguson, Cookie Jeansonne, Calab Vernon, and Richard Mayeaux.

CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS COURT #2029 (Marksville) KID OF THE YEAR. The Catholic Daughters of the Americas Msgr.

Van Der Putten Court 2029 (Marksville) has named as their Catholic Daughters Kid for 2012. is 9 years old and attends Lafargue Elementary School. He is in the 4th grade. made his First Communion last year St. Joseph Church in Marksville, where he is a member of the Bell Choir.

His parents are Kyle and Mikki of Marksville.

Women's Center Fun Run

The Women’s Resource Center (Pregnancy Help Medical Clinic) in Natchitoches will sponsor a walk/run on Saturday, May 12 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.

KC BBQ Cook-Off

Marriage Prep Program

A team of Catholic licensed, professional counselors from the Diocese of Alexandria has put together a comprehensive seminar for use with couples in your parish titled Strong Foundations: A Values Based Marriage Preparation Program. Mandi Milligan Chapman and Holly Bennett Carbo have written a simple, pragmatic approach to marriage prep that includes a couple's workbook and a one-day seminar. Upcoming seminars include: • May 27 (Sunday), Sacred Heart, Pineville, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• July 22 (Sunday), Our Lady of Prompt Succor, Alexandria, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Go to: www.comprehensivetherapygroup.com to register.

For more information, visit the website, call 318.445.1651 or email hollycarbo@gmail.com or mandi218@yahoo. com. --Father Dan O’Connor, V.F. (445-9748, ext. 205)

at 11 a.m. with food booths and games for the kids. Mass is at 4 pm, a trail ride at 5:30 pm, bingo at 6 pm, and kid games from 5:30-9 pm. A dance, featuring DJ Doc Couty, starts at 9 pm. The fun continues May 6 beginning at 11 am. Come join us!

ST. MARTIN OF TOURS, Belledeau -- members of the Ladies Altar Society and Knights of Columbus, along with their pastor, Father Silverino Kwebuzza, visited the Hessmer Nursing Home Feb. 19 to celebrate Mardi Gras with the residents. Mardi Gras cake and drinks were served to everyone.

The Knights of Columbus, St. Anthony Council 2395, Bunkie, is hosting a Bayou Boeuf BBQ Cook-Off on Saturday, May 19. The categories of competition include Boston butt, pork ribs, chicken, BBQ sauce, wild game, and best cake. If you would like to compete in the cook-off, call 318-264-5233 or 318-419-0435.

St. Martin Church Event 2012

St. Martin Catholic Church will host its annual fundraiser "Event 2012" June 1 and 3. A dance will be held on Friday, June 1 from 8 - 11 p.m. featuring "Ronnie Bryant and Friends. Tickets are $25/couple and $15/ person and may be purchased at the door. On Sunday, June 3 there will be a barbeque chicken dinner from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. for $7/plate. A Live Auction will begin at approximately 12:30 p.m.

Christos Encounter Seminars

The Christos Encounter Seminars on Christian Healing Prayer will be offered at Maryhill Renewal Center again this summer by Jim and Christy Gootee and the Two Hearts Team. This 3-part course, which brings you healing and teaches you to pray with others, will be given June 2-3, July 14-15, and Aug. 4-5. Hours will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday with prayer workshops on Saturday evening. The $300 fee includes all three weekends and the course manual. Overnight stay is extra and food is personal responsibility. For more information, see www.jimandchristygootee.com or call 318-641-6827.

Friday, May 4 at 6 p.m.. The high-energy musical event is designed to highlight and honor the 2012 graduating seniors. The event also includes a dinner and several prizes available through $5 and $20 raffles. For more information, call 352-8394.

St. Mary's Fasion Follies

St. John the Baptist Church Fair

St. Mary's School in Natchitoches will present its annual Spring Fling Fashion Follies Disco Daze on

St. John the Baptist Church in Cloutierville will hold its annual spring fair May 5-6. The events start Saturday

KC COUNCIL #13296, STS. FRANCIS & ANNE, Kolin prepared the meal for LSUA students and faculty on Ash Wednesday.

CHURCH TODAY

APRIL 23, 2012

PAGE 23

April -- May Monday

Tuesday

23

Wednesday

24

25

Thursday

Friday

26

Saturday

27

Sacred Heart Golf Tournament 8:00 am Bay Hills Course, Bunkie

Sunday

28

29

St. Mary's Training School Lunch & Learn 12:00 pm Rapides Foundation, Alexandria PRAY FOR FR. J. BROCATO

30

PRAY FOR FR. A. CATELLA

MAY

1

PRAY FOR FR. S. CHEMINO

2

PRAY FOR FR. E. CHINAKA

3

PRAY FOR FR. D. CORKERY

PRAY FOR FR. J. CUNNINGHAM

4

5

St. Mary's Fashion Follies 6:00 pm St. Mary's School, Natchitoches

PRAY FOR FR. F. D'CRUZ

6

Carlow Choir Concert 2:30 pm St. Jude Church, Bossier City

St. John the Baptist Church Fair -- Cloutierville 1 Million Rosaries for Unborn Babies Prayer Event PRAY FOR FR. W. DECOSTE

PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG

7

8

PRAY FOR FR. D. DEJESUS

9

PRAY FOR FR. B. DESHAUTELLE

10

FIRST FRIDAY

FIRST SATURDAY

PRAY FOR FR. P. FAULK

PRAY FOR FR. J. FERGUSON

11

12

Women's Resource Center Fun Run, Natchitoches

PRAY FOR FR. T. FEY

13

Holy Savior Menard Baccalaureate 7:30 pm St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria

MOTHER'S DAY PRAY FOR FR. J. FOSTER

14

PRAY FOR FR. R. HUMPHRIES

21

PRAY FOR FR. S. KWEBUZA

PRAY FOR FR. R. GARRIONE

15

Holy Savior Menard Graduation 7:00 pm LC Guinn Auditorium, Pineville

PRAY FOR FR. B. IBE

22

St. Mary's Graduation 7:00 pm Natchitoches

PRAY FOR FR. M. LAIRD

PRAY FOR FR. J. GOOTEE

16

PRAY FOR FR. H. IMAMSHAH

23

PRAY FOR FR. R. MATHEWS

PRAY FOR FR. R. GREMILLION

17

St. Joseph Graduation 7:00 pm Plaucheville

PRAY FOR FR. K. ISHMAEL

24

PRAY FOR FR. C. MAURICIO

PRAY FOR FR. J. HASIEBER

18

PRAY FOR FR. G. KROSFIELD

25

PRAY FOR FR. J. MEDINA-CRUZ

PRAY FOR BISHOP R. HERZOG

19

St. Anthony of Padua KC BBQ Cookoff, Bunkie

PRAY FOR FR. P. KULIGOWSKI

26

Ordination of Charles Ray to Priesthood 10:00 am St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria

PRAY FOR FR. L. MELCHER

PRAY FOR MSGR. R. HOPPE

20

VIRTUS Awareness Training 2:00 pm KC Hall, Plaucheville

PRAY FOR FR. P. KUNNUMPURAM

27

Marriage Prep 9:00 am-5:00 pm Sacred Heart, Pineville Adult Confirmation 2:30 pm St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria PRAY FOR FR. A. MESSINA